Anna Maria Island Sun May 13, 2026

Chamber golf tournament features helicopter ball drop

County and city to negotiate plan for Tingley Library support

The city-owned Tingley Memorial Library is not part of the county library system.

BY LESLIE LAKE SUN REPORTER | llake@amisun.com

MANATEE COUNTY – On May 5, the Manatee County Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) unanimously directed county staff to negotiate a plan with the city of Bradenton Beach for county contributions to help support the city-owned Tingley Memorial Library.

The Tingley Library is not part of the Manatee County Library system and the potential county support was proposed by BOCC Chair Tal Siddique.

“If you’re not familiar with the Tingley Library, it’s a very cute little city library. It was built in 1994 after a bequeath from Buelah Tingley to the city of Bradenton

The Tingley Memorial Library building in Bradenton Beach requires some significant repairs.

Beach in the amount of $500,000 to create a private library,” Siddique said during the May 5 county commission meeting. “At that time, the Island Branch (library) was already there (in Holmes Beach) and there was a need identified in Bradenton Beach for what was then called a reading room – a library today.”

Commission chooses police department over sheriff’s office

The mayor and city commission declined a $1.35 million proposal from the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office.

BY LESLIE LAKE SUN REPORTER | llake@amisun.com

BRADENTON BEACH – Following extensive discussion and an outpouring of public support, the Bradenton Beach City Commission decided to retain the Bradenton Beach Police Department and discontinue the discussions about the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office possibly serving as the city’s contracted law enforcement agency.

The commission made this decision during a special city commission meeting held in the packed city commission chambers on Thursday, May 7.

“This is a meeting to consider a proposal for law enforcement services from Manatee County Sheriff’s Department,” Mayor John Chappie said when opening the meeting. “As you know, the commission had decided to get more information to see where we’re at and make some comparisons.”

Scenic Highway group concerned about causeway signs, commercial activity

Personal

watercraft rental operators say they’re in compliance with the applicable regulations.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN REPORTER | jhendricks@amisun.com

BRADENTON – On April 8, Palma Sola Scenic Highway Byway Organization Vice Chairperson Ingrid McClellan sent a letter to several city, county and state officials alleging violations of city, county, state and federal laws and regulations regarding the commercial activities taking place along the Palma Sola Causeway, along Manatee Avenue/ State Road 64 in west Bradenton. The commercial activities include personal watercraft rentals, horse rides and more.

In 2004, the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) designated that section of SR 64 as the Palma Sola Scenic Highway. The scenic highway designation also includes SR 789/East Bay Drive in Holmes Beach.

Black skimmer colony gathering in Bradenton Beach

Black skimmers are protected by the U.S. Migratory Bird Treaty Act.

BY LESLIE LAKE SUN REPORTER | llake@amisun.com

BRADENTON BEACH – Anna Maria

Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird

Monitoring volunteers have cordoned off an area in Bradenton Beach where more than 100 black skimmer seabirds have been gathering for the past few weeks.

Black skimmers are designated as a threatened species in Florida and are protected under the U.S. Migratory Bird Treaty Act. If the black skimmers nest in this Island location, it will be the first time since 2017 that Anna Maria Island has had a colony of nesting black skimmers.

“Previous colonies failed due to human interference,” according to a May 8 Turtle Watch press release. “While the perimeter has been roped off, it is important that people stay away from the birds and the posted closure. Since they haven’t settled on an exact location yet, they may be establishing

This black skimmer is one of more than

100 seen gathering in Bradenton Beach

nest sites outside of the posted area. If birds are flushed while establishing a nest site, they may move to a less suitable location.”

When birds are flushed from their nests, the eggs become susceptible to predators.

“Black skimmers spend their entire lives in coastal areas, usually around sandy beaches and islands, although a few colonies can be found in inland locations with very large lakes, particularly in Florida and California,” the press release says.

The non-profit AMI Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring Organiza-

tion provided the following tips for the protection of nesting shorebirds:

• Keep your distance. If birds become agitated or leave their nests, you are too close! A general rule is to stay at least 300 feet away from a nest.

• Respect posted areas. Avoid posted nesting and resting areas and use designated walkways.

Never intentionally force birds to fly. When birds are chased or disturbed, they use energy they need to reserve for nesting and migration.

• Keep pets away from nesting areas. Even well-behaved pets can be perceived as a threat to birds and will disturb them. Keep cats indoors.

• Keep the beach clean and do not feed wildlife. Food scraps attract predators such as raccoons and crows to the beaches. Litter on beaches can entangle birds.

• Spread the word. If you see people disturbing nesting birds, gently remind them how their actions may hurt birds’ survival. If they continue to disturb nesting birds, please call and report their activities to FWC’s Wildlife Alert hotline at 888-404-3922.

For more information, visit IslandTurtleWatch.com.

Sea turtle nesting update

In what may be a slightly late start to sea turtle nesting season, as of May 8, there have been no signs of sea turtle crawls on the Island. “We haven't found any sea turtle crawls on Anna Maria Island - and we've been monitoring the beach since April 15,” Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring Director Kristen Mazzarella stated in a May 8 email. AMI Turtle Watch is conducting weekly “Turtle Tracks and Shorebird Facts” Turtle Talks every Monday through August at Holmes Beach City Hall, 5801 Marina Drive, with the exception of Memorial Day on May 25. Turtle Watch volunteers will conduct the Turtle Talk presentations from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. and attendees will learn about sea turtles and shorebirds. Free outreach materials are available at IslandTurtleWatch. com/get-involved/educate to help educate vacation rental guests. The educational materials include rack cards, door hangers, posters and window clings that can be placed in vacation rental units to inform visitors about protecting sea turtles and shorebirds during their stay on Anna Maria Island. The Turtle Watch 24-hour hotline is 941-301-8434.

ISLAND NEWS

IN BRIEF

Skimboard contest returning to AMI

Cowabunga! After 20-plus years, The Center of Anna Maria Island is bringing the skimboarding competition back to the shores of Anna Maria Island with the One Love AMI Skim Competition on Saturday, June 6. Check-in is at 8:30 a.m. The competition will take place near the Magnolia Avenue beach access from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., with parking available at The Center. The skim competition will feature four age-based divisions: seven and under, eight-12, 13-17 and 18 and older. Participation is limited and the cost is $45 per participant. To register online, visit Centerami.org/ events. To register by phone, call 941-778-1908. “Whether you’re a seasoned rider or just getting started, this is your chance to be part of something epic,” The Center website says. “Let’s hit the sand and show us what you’ve got. Let’s grow the sport, build the community and bring the energy back to the Island!” Sponsorship opportunities can also be found at The Center website’s “Events” page.

Kiwanis Club provides another scholarship

The Kiwanis Club of Anna Maria Island presented its final scholarship of the year to State College of Florida Key Club student and future Purdue University student Presley Reich. Kiwanis Scholarship Committee members Claudette Welch and Patricia Webster presented the $2,000 scholarship to Presley, with his dad, Barry Reich, also in attendance.

Waste Pro contract on Thursday’s agenda

The Anna Maria City Commission will meet at 1 p.m. on Thursday, May 14. After general public comment on non-agenda items, the commission will be asked to approve the multi-item consent agenda that includes approval of a Joe Payne Inc. contract revision for the city’s contracted building department services; approval of a work order with GRAEF for project management at the T-end of the City Pier; approval of a resolution pertaining to a FDOT Grant for Magnolia Avenue and Spring Avenue sidewalks; approval of an amendment to the city’s employee handbook regarding holiday pay; approval of a special event permit for The Center’s One Love AMI Skim Competition; approval of a special event permit for the city’s Memorial Day event to be held at The Center; approval of a change order request with the Tangerine Group pertaining to the City Pier Park/ Lake La Vista inlet seawall; and approval of a task order with Raftelis for stormwater services. Under action items, the mayor will seek commission authorization to enter into contract negotiations with Waste Pro for that company to serve as the city of Anna Maria’s new next solid waste and recycling service provider. The city’s current contract with Waste Management expires soon. The meeting agenda notes that a final negotiated agreement will be brought back to the commission for approval at a future meeting.

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Team Cablish & Gentile wins chamber golf tournament

The foursome representing the Manatee County Government finished second.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN REPORTER | jhendricks@amisun.com

BRADENTON – The Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce held it 27th annual fundraising golf tournament on Friday, May 8, at the IMG Academy Golf Club in Bradenton.

The foursome representing the Cablish & Gentile certified public accounting firm won the bestball, scramble-style tournament and they earned two free rounds of golf for their winning round.

Finishing second was the foursome representing the Manatee County Government that included Elliott Falcione, Brian Parnell, Rob Wenzel and County Commissioner Mike Rahn. The Manatee County Government team also won the putting contest.

Finishing third was the foursome representing Kern & Gilder Construction/Island Kitchens & Baths.

Utilizing a shotgun start, the tournament began at 1:30 p.m.

after the golfers enjoyed a pretournament lunch in the outdoor registration area.

SEE CHAMBER, PAGE 11

Terri Kinder retiring as AMI Chamber president

Current Chamber

Vice President Amber Tipton will serve as the interim Chamber president.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN REPORTER | jhendricks@amisun.com

HOLMES BEACH – Friday, May 29, will be Terri Kinder’s last day as the president of the Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce.

Kinder started working with the Chamber in 2011 and she became the Chamber president in 2018. Her retirement party will be held at the Swordfish Grill in Cortez on Friday, June 5, from 5-7 p.m.

Kinder announced her pending retirement during the Chamber’s business card exchange on April 23, held that evening at the Anna Maria Island Historical Museum in Anna Maria. Kinder made her announcement after the Historical Society awarded its Pat Copeland Scholarships.

When Kinder retires, current Chamber Vice President Amber

Tipton will take over as interim Chamber president and serve in that role until the Chamber board of directors removes the interim title or selects someone else to serve in that leadership role. Tipton is Kinder’s daughter and she has many years of experience with the Chamber.

On April 24, Tipton provided the following comment via email: “I have some pretty big shoes to fill. I am excited and looking forward to being a good steward for the Chamber and our business community.”

In an April 30 email to The Sun, Chamber board member Katy Demick wrote, “Amber has worked for the Chamber for many years and has served as vice president, so her stepping into the role of interim president is a natural and appropriate progression based on her experience and leadership within the organization.”

On Monday, May 11, Kinder shared her thoughts on her retirement and the annual fundraising golf tournament the Chamber hosted on Friday, May 8.

“I still have a luncheon and a business card exchange to attend this month, but being here for our annual golf tournament was a great way to finish out my career with the AMI Chamber. I am humbled and thankful for all of the support, friendships, volunteers and the business community that have been a true source of encouragement and enjoyment throughout my 15-year career with the AMI Chamber. I wish everyone great success,” she stated in an email.

“The Outsider” comedically addresses politics and government

A scene in the second act beautifully summarizes the role of government in real life.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN REPORTER | jhendricks@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA – The Island Players are ending the 2025-26 community theater season on a high note with the satirical political comedy, “The Outsider.”

Written by Paul Slade Smith in 2015, “The Outsider” tells the tale of a shy, nervous, policydriven lieutenant governor who suddenly finds himself thrust into the role of governor when the governor he serves resigns amidst a sex scandal.

“The Outsider” takes a humorous, human and heartfelt look at politics, government and the people who participate in those public endeavors.

Co-produced by LaPensee Plumbing, Pools & Air, “The Outsider” was initially directed by James Thaggard. When Haggard had to step down due to an unexpected medical issue, longtime sound designer and actor Mike Lusk and stage manager Denise Handley stepped in and helped ready the cast and crew for opening night on Thursday, May 7. The second week of the two-week theatrical run begins on Tuesday, May 12, and concludes with a matinee performance on Sunday, May 20.

Just before the start of the Wednesday, May 6, preview

performance for invited family members and friends, Lusk said, “This is a hilarious play and it was already in pretty good shape when I came in. It is a very contemporary play. The cast is marvelous and most people who come to the Island Players will have seen them before. They had a blast working together and some of them had not worked together until this play. This wraps up our season this year and we’re looking forward to next season.”

In the lead role of Ned Newley, Jeffrey Steiger gives a wonderful and nuanced performance as the timid but effective and educated behindthe-scenes civil servant who’s very good at his job, but he’s terrified of public speaking and he’s terrible at it.

Jennifer Kwiatkowski gives a hilariously over-the-top performance as Louise “LuLu” Peaks, a ditzy but supremely confident temporary office worker who stumbles into being touted as the potential

new lieutenant governor, and a possible rising star in state and national politics.

Eric Johnson plays Dave Riley, Newley’s only existing staff member when he assumes the governorship. Initially, Dave is the only person in the new governor’s small circle of confidants who actually believes Newley is the right man to serve as governor despite his meek and timid nature.

Sue Belvo plays Paige Caldwell, the newly hired political pollster who’s constantly seeking input from polls and focus groups – beginning with the public’s reaction to the new governor’s disastrous first television appearance. Caldwell takes more joy in the public’s highly positive reaction to the charismatic LuLu and her refreshing, and clueless, approach to politics.

John Andruzzi plays Arthur Vance, the opportunistic political advisor who has

The Anna Maria Island Sun Staff

Publishers

Bob Alexander

John Reitz

Editor

Joe Hendricks

Reporters | Photographers

Joe Hendricks

Leslie Lake

Columnists

Louise Bolger

Rusty Chinnis

Contributors

Steve Borggren

Capt. Rick Grassett

Layout

Ricardo Fonseca

Advertising Director

Shona Otto

Classified Ads

Bob Alexander

Graphics

Elaine Stroili

Ricardo Fonseca

Distribution

Bob Alexander

Tony McNulty

Brian Smith

Accounting

Leslie Ketchum

John Reitz

CAUSEWAY: group concerned about causeway signs, commercial activity

FROM PAGE 1

The Manatee County Property Appraiser website lists the “State of Florida Department of Transportation” as the owners of the causeway and right of ways located along the 8500 block of Manatee Avenue West/ SR 64.

When meeting with Manatee County officials last year, Holmes Beach officials were told the city of Bradenton is responsible for the enforcement of the commercial activities occurring along the causeway.

Since then, “We don’t want our beaches to look like the causeway” has become a common statement made by Holmes Beach and Anna Maria city officials when discussing the regulation of commercial activities on city-controlled public beaches on Anna Maria Island.

SCENIC HIGHWAY LETTER

The Palma Sola Scenic Highway organization’s letter includes the heading, “Rights of way uses compliance request on Palma Sola Causeway.”

The letter recipients included Manatee County Sheriff Rick Wells, Bradenton Police Chief Josh Cramer, Bradenton Code Enforcement Manager Volker Reiss, Bradenton Code Enforcement Chief Tom Wooten, Bradenton Mayor Gene Brown, Holmes Beach Mayor Judy

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

The personal watercraft made available to rent are often staged along the Palma Sola Bay shoreline.

Titsworth, Holmes Beach Police Chief Bill Tokajer, County Commissioner Tal Siddique and FDOT representatives Trisha Hartzell, Dean Stoddart and Darryl Richard.

The Palma Sola Scenic Highway Byway Organization’s letter requests the various agencies help ensure compliance with the city of Bradenton’s sign prohibitions, the state of Florida’s use of rights-of-way prohibitions and the federal code that addresses outdoor advertising on scenic highways.

“We have observed up to 17 businesses on the one mile of Palma Sola Causeway’s rights of way, which extends 500 feet into Palma Sola Bay north and south. These businesses have violations in prohibited signs/ advertising and use of state rights of way,” the letter says.

The letter alleges some causeway business operators are violating city,

state and federal regulations.

“We ask for your help to enforce them,” the letter says.

Citing the city of Bradenton’s land use regulations, the letter questions the legality of the business signage placed along the causeway.

The letter also references the Florida Statute that regulates prohibited uses of the rights of way and says, “The FDOT encroachment brochure identifies the prohibited uses of the rights of way that include any use which interferes with the safety and efficiency of the road, display of advertising of any sort, solicitation including for charitable purposes, sale/display/free distribution of any merchandise, goods, property or services.

The letter says, “According to the Florida Scenic Highway Program Manual, once a highway has been designated, the policy on outdoor advertising signage must be complied with for designated Scenic Highway corridors. The policy precludes outdoor advertising on designated scenic highways/byways.”

McClellan said the only responses she received from the letter recipients came from Holmes Beach Mayor Judy Titsworth and Holmes Beach Police Chief Bill Tokajer.

In her email to McClellan, Titsworth wrote, “Thank you for this

John M. Campora, ChFC®, CRPC Financial Advisor

6400 Manatee Avenue West, Suite B Bradenton, FL 34209 941-779-2499

ANNA MARIA

10005 GULF DRIVE

FOR INFORMATION, CALL 941-708-6130

Visit www.cityofannamaria.com

Thursday, May 14, 1 p.m., City Commission meeting

Wednesday, May 20, 9 a.m., Planning and Zoning Board meeting CANCELLED

BRADENTON BEACH

107 GULF DRIVE N. FOR INFORMATION, CALL 941-778-1005

Visit www.cityofbradentonbeach.com

Wednesday, May 20, 1 p.m., Scenic WAVES Committee meeting

Thursday, May 21, 9:30 a.m., Community Redevelopment Agency meeting

Thursday, May 21, 6 p.m., City Commission meeting

BEACH BEAT

HOLMES BEACH

April 29, 8 a.m. Gulf Drive N., Fraud. Police were dispatched to a resort for the report of a patron who had failed to pay for their room. The owner of the resort said when the individual checked in they were only able to pay $158, which was half of the rate of $316. The individual said they would return in the morning and pay the remainder. The individual checked out of the hotel, leaving the balance unpaid. The resort owner texted the person that if they did not pay for the room by 4 p.m., he would contact the authorities. A capias request for the individual’s arrest was submitted.

HOLMES BEACH 5801 MARINA DRIVE FOR INFORMATION, CALL 941-708-5800

Visit www.holmesbeachfl.org

Tuesday, May 12, 2 p.m., City Commission meeting

Wednesday, May 13, 9 a.m., Clean Water Ad Hoc Committee meeting

Monday, May 18, 25, 10 a.m., Summer Turtle Talks by AMI Turtle Watch

Tuesday, May 19, 9 a.m., Best Landscape Management Practices Workshop

May 1, 3:35 p.m., Manatee Public Beach, Stolen vehicle. A beachgoer told police he had parked his 2021 black Honda CRV in the Manatee Beach parking lot and when he returned three hours later the vehicle was gone. The vehicle owner looked up the AirTag that was attached to the keys and noticed the vehicle was actively moving south on Gulf Drive. Longboat Key Police located the stolen car and were in pursuit with lights and sirens activated. The driver stopped and police say he refused to answer any questions. The man had a suspended driver’s license. Police say the man is also a suspect in an earlier case about an abandoned disabled car that was left on Gulf Drive and matched the time frame of the stolen vehicle. He was charged with theft of a motor vehicle and fleeing to elude law enforcement.

BB POLICE: Commission chooses police department over sheriff’s office

SHERIFF’S PROPOSAL

The $1.35 million proposal recently received from the sheriff’s office included $1.27 million in annual salary expenses for eight deputies and one sergeant. The proposal listed eight deputies’ salaries at $80,623 and one sergeant’s salary at $119,248. The $1.27 million figure also included additional incentives, FICA tax reductions, retirement benefits and health benefits for the deputies and the sergeant.

The sheriff’s office proposal includes an additional $85,163 for operating expenses, bringing the total estimated first-year cost for county-provided law enforcement services to $1.35 million.

The city’s discussions with the sheriff’s office occurred at a time when the Bradenton Beach police officers were exploring the potential unionization of the city’s police department – an action that

now appears unlikely after six officers recently informed the city, in writing, that they would vote no on unionization, leaving only two voting police department members still in potential support of unionizing.

COMMISSION DISCUSSION

Serving as the city’s labor attorney, Robert Eschenfelder provided a brief recap of the previous commission discussion on April 23.

“At the last meeting, you discussed authorizing staff to go back to the sheriff’s office to negotiate an agreement for you all to consider. Your (police department) budget is $2.1 million. In the first year of the contract, Manatee County Sheriff’s Office is offering services for $1,358,000, which is an $822,000 savings. The sheriff does indicate that number is premised upon entry-level officers and that for second and ensuing years, the salaries of the deputies that are assigned

The mayor and city commission declined the sheriff’s office’s offer.

would be more – to about what Anna Maria has, which is $1.6-$1.7 million, so that savings becomes $480,000 a year based on what you’re currently paying.”

Eschenfelder said the sheriff’s office included a clause for policing the Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) district, which includes Bridge Street.

“Their hourly rate is $20-$30 higher than the rate you currently pay,” he said. “The chief (John Cosby) also wanted to make sure marine patrol would be covered to the same frequency, and the sheriff’s office agreed to that.”

Speaking next, Mayor John Chappie gave a pretty clear indication as to what the commission’s decision would be.

“Apples-to-apples is what we were looking for,” he said of the cost comparisons being discussed. “It’s not in any way, shape or form all about cost. It’s about the service. It’s what we get for our residents, visitors and business owners.

Chief Cosby, in his 39 years of service, has developed what we all agree is a stellar police department.”

Chappie said it’s important for the officers

to know the residents, the neighborhoods and the city’s possible hot spots.

Chappie said the city’s police officers are familiar with the vacation rental “party houses” and the Bridge Street area.

“They know how to patrol those areas,” he said. “If we would make a change, it’s permanent and there’s no going back.”

“If we do make a change, it would make a big difference,”

Chappie said. “Some of the other things that concern me is the cost of staffing. After the first year, it’s going to go up, and it could be significant.”

Chappie said while there appears to be a cost savings with the sheriff’s office proposal, it doesn’t take into account the $147,000 the city anticipates collecting from parking ticket fines during the current fiscal year, and the $129,417 the city receives from Manatee County for the city police department’s patrolling of the county-owned Coquina Beach and Cortez Beach areas.

BB POLICE: Commission chooses police department over sheriff’s office

“I’m not in favor of this, I don’t think it’s right for us,”

Chappie said. “There are many unknowns with regard to future costs. I’m happy with our police department.”

Commissioner Ralph Cole expressed concern about Bradenton Beach losing its personal feel.

“If we get rid of our police department, we’re going to lose our small-town identity,” Cole said. “I’m totally for keeping our police department.”

Commissioner Deborah Scaccianoce said this was not just a financial decision, but also an emotional one.

“These guys know our citizens, they know our businesses, they know where they need to be at certain times,” she said. “Knowing our residents is important because they know who needs them – whether it’s for medical emergencies, or for our businesses on Bridge Street when they get busy.”

Scaccianoce said she has a special attachment to the police department because her brother, Sam Speciale, was the former police chief.

the sheriff, but as the mayor said, this is pretty much bare bones. This is starting salary for new deputies; we don’t know what next year will look like. I really think this is not an apples-to-apples comparison. I could see us back at $2.1 million before you know it and what we’ve lost we can never get back.”

Commissioner Scott Bear expressed concerns about the sheriff's office’s ability to provide additional coverage during holidays and special events, and the potential overtime costs associated with doing so.

“I’ve known Chief Cosby since he got hired and I know I can depend on all of them on a moment’s notice because they know this community,” Scaccianoce said. “Financially, the numbers look good for

“Although the numbers look good, there’s a lot of risk to the city,” he said. “We would be saving some money, but I’m not sure how much because there’s overtime and things we can’t control. It seems to me we would not be getting the same level of policing if all we’re getting is new recruits.”

Commissioner Robert Talham said he was in favor of keeping the city’s police department.

PUBLIC COMMENT

During public comment, longtime Bradenton Beach resident Jim Hassett was the first of many speakers to express support and appreciation for the city’s police department and police officers.

“After the hurricanes, the chief of police came by to check on how I was doing,” Hassett said. “After the hurricanes, Officer (Eric) Hill stopped by to double-check on how I was doing. I’m a believer in the police that have protected us. I think they’re worth their weight in gold.”

Officer Tom Ferrara, a 29-year veteran of the police department, spoke on behalf of himself and his fellow officers.

“The majority of our officers bring over 20 years’ experience. We practice true community-oriented policing. We use discretion, empathy and we treat people how we want our own families treated. Both locals and visitors comment on how approachable we are. This feedback means an awful lot to us,” he said.

Ferrara said Bradenton Beach maintains one of the lowest crime rates in Manatee County, even as the in-season population explodes from 1,000 fulltime residents to as many as 20,000 to 30,000 visitors.

“A lot of officers give our personal cell phone numbers to residents, tourists and visitors. I can name probably half a dozen people in this room, from the public, that have my number,” Ferrara said. “The relationships and friendships we’ve built here go far beyond this job.”

He said after the 2024 hurricanes officers left their own damaged homes to work 12-hour shifts, seven days a week for more than a month.

“That level of dedication we bring every single day,” Ferrara said. “I’m not here to bash the sheriff’s office at all. I’m simply asking you to consider what we’ve built here and how our community truly values what we do. The warm, safe feeling they get when they visit is directly tied to the community policing.”

Drift-In manager Doreen Flynn praised the officers and said, “They’re kind and honorable, and they protect us in every way. They come in and check on us two to three times a week and make sure we get in our car on the way home because we’re getting out so late at night. We always feel comfortable that they have our back. To abolish this police department would be ludicrous.”

“The small town feel you talk about is true,” Drift-In owner Derek Williams said. “It’s important as a citizen and a business owner to know that we have people like our police having our backs and watching our people. These guys are beat cops. They walk in and they talk to our customers. We are in support of keeping our police.”

TINGLEY: County and city to negotiate plan for Tingley Library support

In March, Bradenton Beach Police Chief/Public Works Director John Cosby told the mayor and city commissioners the city-owned library building requires $230,000 to $250,000 for repairs that include the replacement of front and back stairs and the replacement of the air conditioning system.

In April, Cosby estimated the repairs might cost $350,000, including the replacement of the air conditioning duct work. The mayor and city commissioners – who also serve as the city’s Community Redevelopment Agency members – have also discussed tearing the library building down and replacing it with a paid parking lot.

Siddique attended the April 16 city commission meeting and mentioned the possibility of the county providing financial support for the library repairs. He said the county (or the county library system) could also possibly enter into an interlocal agreement with the city to augment library programming and possibly provide additional staffing and operational support.

“After speaking to the librarian and the community, my suggestion would be this remain a city property,” Siddique said during the April 16 city meeting.

On May 5, Siddique asked the other county commissioners if they would be open to providing financial support for the city library.

Regarding the cost of the needed repairs, Siddique said, “That’s a substantial ask from us, when it’s not a county library.”

“I’d like to see the numbers and the options,” Commissioner George Kruse said. Kruse asked if an engineering study had been done to determine the structural integrity of the library building.

“They had a building inspector look at the building. The core concrete structure is in good shape and the roof has been replaced recently,” Siddique said.

“We need to know what the real costs are to move that forward,” Kruse said. “We also need to understand some of the options. Does it become a county library? Does it become some sort of interlocal (agreement) situation? Are we going to be paying the staff and operating expenses? If so, we need to factor that in. There are a lot of open questions.”

Kruse said he’s in favor of the county assisting the city library, in part because it’s a way to return county-controlled property tax revenues to the city of Bradenton Beach and the Bradenton Beach taxpayers.

“They pay a lot of property taxes and they almost become ‘donor property tax’ situations – where they pay a lot more taxes than they get back,” Kruse

COUNTY/YOUTUBE |

MANATEE COUNTY/YOUTUBE | SUBMITTED County Commissioner George Kruse is in favor of assisting the city library, but he needs more details.

said. “We always look for opportunities where we can give some of those tax dollars back in good faith and make sure that our municipalities are being taken care of by the county.”

Kruse mentioned the county’s support for a community center in Longboat Key as an example.

Kruse said he supports the idea of the library remaining in Bradenton Beach but he would like more information. Kruse made a motion to direct county staff to negotiate with city officials to determine the amount and nature of the county’s potential contributions for the Tingley Library repairs and operations. When addressing the county commissioners during public input, Bradenton Beach Vice Mayor Debbie Scaccianoce said, “I want to thank you for considering this. This is very important to our community. I have provided the recent quotes and I’m happy to say it’s much less than what was discussed in our previous meeting, so I am very encouraged by that.”

During the Thursday, May 7, city commission meeting, Scaccianoce and Cosby were directed to represent the city in the library negotiations with the county.

CHAMBER: Team Cablish & Gentile wins chamber golf tournament

Before the tournament began, a fundraising helicopter golf ball drop took place in front of the driving range. At approximately 1 p.m., a helicopter from Sarasota Helicopter Services hovered over the makeshift flag and pin and LaPensee Plumbing, Pools & Air owner Karen LaPensee tossed the bright green golf balls out of the helicopter and onto the designated green area below. Ball #317 landed in the cup, but no one purchased that ball in advance. No one purchased the ball that landed closest to the pin either, so no one won the $1,000 cash prize.

Likewise, none of the golfers scored a hole-in-one on hole 3, which would have earned them $50,000 toward the purchase or lease of a Cadillac from Sunset Cadillac of Bradenton.

The tournament was followed by an awards ceremony and dinner banquet in the banquet room.

The annual golf tournament was one of the last Chamber events for Chamber President Terri Kinder, who is retiring on May 29.

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Body & Sol reopens in Anna Maria

Body & Sol is part of a new collaboration known as UPSTAIRS.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN REPORTER | jhendricks@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA – After sustaining major damage during Hurricane Milton in 2024, Body & Sol Spa and Wellness in Anna Maria is open again. Wash Construction completed the renovation project on behalf of the Cagnina family that owns the old IGA grocery store building at 9805 Gulf Drive. Body & Sol Spa and Wellness is located on the second story of the historic building that features Ginny’s and Jane E’s Café on the ground level.

The reopening of the second-story space was celebrated with a ribboncutting ceremony conducted by the Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce. The celebration also included festive snacks and “reveal deals.”

The reimagining of the second-story space now includes UPSTAIRS – a collaborative endeavor that brings together massage, yoga, boutique shopping and original local art.

“With so much time to rethink the space after the back-to-back hurricanes in 2024, UPSTAIRS became an opportunity to create something more visible, more collaborative and more reflective of the Island today,” Body & Sol owner Amanda Escobio said.

The grand reopening press release says the UPSTAIRS collective expands Body & Sol’s wellness offerings with a solid yoga program. Cindy Phillips, who operated Island Yoga Space there for nearly 20 years, now welcomes Rachael Croll – known for her beach and paddleboard yoga classes – to join her, expanding the yoga offerings.

“We have collaborated so well in the past, this felt like a natural evolution to us both,” Phillips said.

Sol

Building on the spirit of the UPSTAIRS collaboration is local art curated by Cove – the acclaimed gallery on Bridge Street in Bradenton Beach, where Escobio owns and operates Sea-renity Beach Spa & Bou-tiki, alongside Cove founder and local artist and interior designer Kelly Headley.

“Cove is creating a ‘Shore to Deep Waters’ art story for the inaugural show. We’re excited to bring art classes and creative experiences into the space as we introduce our ‘Inner Cove’ community,” Headley said in the press release.

Body & Sol’s massage therapy services started the following day and yoga classes began on May 11. Visit Body & Sol online at AnnaMariaDaySpa.com.

CAUSEWAY: group concerned about causeway signs, commercial activity

FROM PAGE 6

most appropriate demand letter. I appreciate the entire Scenic Highway Committee for taking action, as our many voiced concerns have fallen on deaf ears.”

BUSINESS OPERATORS’ PERSPECTIVE

On April 30, The Sun spoke with three personal watercraft rental operators at the causeway who preferred not to be named.

One operator noted the causeway is owned by the state of Florida.

Regarding their business signage, the business operators said Bradenton Code Enforcement officers regularly visit the area.

“They regulate the code which allows us to have an A-frame sign,” one operator said.

“And they told us this year we’re allowed to have the tents,” another operator said.

The business operators noted

their rental operations require state-issued livery permits.

According to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) website, “Liveries need a state-issued, no-cost livery operator permit if they are renting motorboats, personal watercraft, paddlecraft, sailboats or houseboats being operated on the waters of the state. Liveries that operate in Florida without a valid livery operator permit are in violation of Florida statutes, which is a first-degree misdemeanor subject to a $1,000 fine.”

Florida law requires livery permit holders to carry insurance coverage with a minimum of $500,000 per person and $1 million per incident.

State regulations require personal watercraft rental operators to provide their clients with a pre-rental and pre-ride instruction checklist and attestation form that addresses operator responsibilities, navigation rules and aids, waterway

hazards, weather awareness and operating instructions. FWC’s pre-ride checklist contains specific personal watercraft safety requirements regarding personal flotation devices, the use of a kill switch, the minimum age to legally operate a personal watercraft (14 years old) and the minimum age to rent a personal watercraft (18 years old).

According to the FWC website, “These forms must be completed and signed by both the renter and instructor. The completed forms must be maintained by the livery for 90 days and must be made available to law enforcement upon request.

“Any person delivering pre-rental or pre-ride instructions must have successfully completed a boating safety education course approved by the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators and the state of Florida. Proof of completion must be maintained at the rental/ business location.”

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The Apex of Angling: Part 2

Reel Time

f getting a tarpon to eat a fly wasn’t demanding enough, once a fish opens its mouth the real test of an angler’s

Tarpon are not trout, and attempting to raise the rod to set the hook is a serious misstep. Fortunately, once a tarpon decides to eat a fly there’s no need to make a lightning-fast hook set. A “strip strike,” as the name implies, involves letting the line come tight and immediately setting the hook with a combination of the line hand (the strip) and the rod, while being ready for the tarpon to bolt away from the boat.

An angler’s attention must go immediately to clearing loose line from the deck as the tarpon departs the zip code. Loose line can easily foul on the angler, the rod or the reel. The drill is to take your attention from the fish to the line at your feet. Hold the rod away from your body and let the excess line pass through your stripping hand within a circle made with the thumb and the forefinger. Once the line is on the reel, set the hook with several more strip strikes, using the rod. If this wasn’t enough to remember, it’s critical to apply maximum pressure to the tarpon during the fight, yielding only on jumps when the angler thrusts the rod forward to relieve pressure on the line. This prevents the tarpon from breaking off if it lands on a taught line. This maneuver is known as “bowing to the king.”

It’s customary to start the engine and get as close to the tarpon as possible after the initial and subsequent long runs. This allows the angler to apply maximum pressure. If a tarpon is a hundred yards from the boat, the stretch of the line makes it impossible to apply any real pressure.

If you’re looking for a good tarpon jumping photo, when a tarpon makes any long run, motor to it, applying only enough pressure to make sure the hook doesn’t dislodge. As soon as you are in place, frame the shot you want and then have the angler apply maximum pressure. Most times, the tarpon will make a jump that’s close enough to the boat to get the angler and the fish in the shot. It’s not a sure thing, but when it works it can present an awesome photographic opportunity.

Finally, don’t try and rush the tarpon when it gets near the end of the fight. Keep the pressure on but don’t clamp down and try to force the fish to the boat. Never try and bring a tarpon into the boat. It’s illegal and dangerous for the tarpon and anyone in the boat. When releasing a large fish like a tarpon, put the

motor in gear and slowly let water pass through their gills. They will let you know when they’re ready. Tarpon on the fly is a challenging endeavor, but it’s well worth the effort when you finally get that first fish boat-side for a photograph. Then you’ll understand why it’s referred to as “the apex of angling.”

Center Scoreboard

ADULT BASKETBALL: (WEEK 3)

Salty Printing 22, 16, X (2-1)

Bradenton Home Inspections 12, 13, X (2-1)

Q Law Injury Attorneys 22, 22, 21 (1-2)

USA Fence 12, 17, 14 (2-1)

MI-Box 19, 4, 18 (0-3) Paddy Wagon's 22, 22, 22 (3-0)

Gator-Man Pools 22, 22, 22 (2-1)

Luxury Services 15, 13, 16 (0-3)

ADULT 35+ FLAG FOOTBALL:

Moss Builders 33 ((3-1) Slim's Place 28 (3-1)

Bradenton Home Inspections 39 (3-1)

Solid Rock Construction 26 (1-3)

ALL GIRLS SOCCER (WEEK 6)

Beach Bums 2 (2-2-2)

Bubble Binz 0 (1-4-1)

Anna Maria Island Rental Cars 3 (5-0-1) RAK'S Wings 'N Things 1 (1-3-2)

YOUTH SOCCER 8-10 (WEEK 6)

AMI Outfitters 3 (2-1-2)

The Gitt Team - KW on the Water 0 (0-5-0)

Isola Bella Italian Eatery 4 (1-1-3)

G.I. Bins 0 (1-5-0)

Anna Maria Island Rental Cars 2 (4-0-1)

Flip Flop Shop & Candy Stop 0 (3-2-0)

YOUTH SOCCER 11-13

Solid Rock Construction 6 (4-0-2)

Moss Builders 4 (2-4-0)

Print Wizards 5 (4-0-2)

Le Creperie 2 (0-6-0)

YOUTH SOCCER 14-17

Print Wizards 3

Solid Rock Construction 0

Kesten Concrete Co. 3 Print Wizards 0 (3-8-1)

Kesten Concrete Co. 1 (8-2-2)

Solid Rock Construction 0 (5-5-2)

ADULT SOCCER (WEEK 6)

Bubble Binz 3 (2-3-1)

Pizza Social 2 (2-3-1)

Duncan Real Estate 3 (2-2-1)

Pool America 3 (3-2-1)

Impact Florida Windows 3 (2-1-2)

Salty Printing 1 (2-3-0)

Anna Maria Island Real Estate Corporation 7 (2-2-1) Ross Built 3 (0-5-0)

Sato Real Estate 5 (6-0-0)

Swordfish Grill 2 (4-2-0)

ADULT SOCCER (WEEK 7)

Swordfish Grill 5 (5-2-0)

Anna Maria Island Real Estate Corporation 2 (2-3-1)

Pool America 4 (4-2-1)

Bubble Binz 0 (2-4-1)

Sato Real Estate 4 (7-0-0)

Duncan Real Estate 3 (2-3-1)

Salty Printing 6 (3-3-0)

Solid Rock Construction 4 (1-4-1)

Impact Florida Windows 8 (3-1-2)

Ross Built 4 (0-6-0)

Doyle and Fernades Wednesday’s winners

On Wednesday, May 6, two teams met in the final match after each team went 3 and 0 during pool play at Anna Maria Horseshoes. Steve Doyle and Gersey Fernades (shown in photo) earned the day’s bragging rights after beating Norm Good and Tom Farrington 2317. On Saturday, May 9, Farrington and Tim Sofran won the day’s competition with a 21-17 win over Tom Skoloda in the final match after each advanced with 3 and 0 records.

KEY ROYALE CLUB GOLF SCORES

Monday, May 4 - Stableford and skins game

First place: Jack Connors, +4

Second place: Dale Hudson tied Quentin Talbert, +3

Third place: Mark Micho, +2

Skins: Brian Comer, hole 5

TUESDAY, MAY 5 - LOW NET SCORE

Flight A:

First place: Lori Waggoner - 30

Second place: Linda Dorsey and Jana Samuels - 32

Third place: Leigh Brattain - 34

Flight B:

First place: Susan VanOrsdel - 30

Second place: Mary Ann Latham and Marilyn Manzer - 31

Third place: Nina McSparren and Helen Pollock - 33

Chip-ins: Marilyn Manzer hole 2 and Kathy Riordan hole 5

THURSDAY, MAY 7 - SCRAMBLE

Five teams tied for first place with a score of 30, (-2)

MAY 21-SEPTEMBER 5

THURSDAY, F RIDAY, SATURDAY , FRID , SA YOUR

REAL ESTATE

Is Florida still growing?

The state of Florida has lived through many stages, going back to cattle ranching and cattle drives in the early 1800s, and winter retreats for the northern wealthy. Every evolution in the lifetime of what is now the third -largest state popula tion wise in the country has been mostly successful. So, you’ll pardon me for being skeptical with the new reporting that Florida is losing the middle class because it became too expensive.

Certainly, in Florida, it now costs a lot more to purchase homes, pay property taxes and insurance than it was when I moved here in 1997. But it’s still a lot more affordable than most of the northeastern states and California.

For example, my Manatee County property tax is less now than my Long Island, New York, property tax was when I moved 29 years ago. Much of the reason for this is Florida’s Save Our Homes Act legislation, which caps property tax increases for full-time Florida residents –

Castles in the Sand

LOUISE BOLGER

a major draw to residents of other states who don’t have that benefit.

Florida’s population reached over 23.37 million by July 2024, growing faster than any other state since 2020, with an 8.24% increase. Florida still remains a high-growth state in spite of the pace slowing due to domestic migration, with Florida residents moving to other states looking for a lower cost of living.

Unfortunately, middle-class Florida residents’ wages have not kept up with the cost of living, which has increased throughout the country. However, to incoming migration residents from states like New York, New Jersey and

Illinois, to name a few, the cost of living in Florida is very affordable.

In addition, Florida’s population is reducing because deaths have begun to outpace births, which is happening in many other parts of the country because of the reduced number of women having babies.

New national laws have also substantially reduced immigration. Nevertheless, despite the slowdown, Florida is still projected to add over 300,000 new residents annually through 2028 – primarily because we offer an elevated level of lifestyle with our long coastline, water access, no state income tax, full-time resident tax benefits and a continually improving education system that’s now coming in second in the country.

Parents have increasingly been in favor of smaller and hybrid school environments for their children. Recognizing this, legislation was passed and signed by the Florida governor. As of July 1, private schools enrolling 150 students or fewer will now be able to locate on properties

that carry commercial and mixed-use zoning designations. This will dramatically reduce retrofit costs and timelines to open new schools down to six months from the previous two years, without costing the Florida taxpayer a penny.

The U.S. Census Bureau data is reporting the decline in domestic migration in Florida and I’m not about to argue with them. They do, however, point out that the net losses often were in lower age groups, mainly those 44 or under. There are a lot of wealthy people migrating to Florida and bringing their personal needs and business with them. Hopefully, the under-44 age group will take another look at the benefits of living in Florida down the road.

I believe Florida is taking a pause, reorganizing and getting ready for its next evolution. Don’t bet against Florida. Remember when it was called “God’s waiting room?” Tell that to the owners of the Gulf-front homes along North Shore Drive in Anna Maria. It’s more like God’s country.

OBITUARIES

Deloris

“Butch” (Boo Boo) Jean Carden

Deloris “Butch” (Boo Boo) Jean Carden, 85, of Anna Maria Island, Florida, passed away peacefully on May 2, 2026, on the date of her 67th wedding anniversary, with her devoted husband, James “J.C.” Carden, by her side.

Butch was born on February 17, 1941, in Akron, Ohio, to the late Oren Dennis Carter and Mezzie Madelene (Metz) Carter. She moved from Cuyahoga Falls (Summit County) to Anna Maria Island in 1974.

A lifelong, dedicated Buccaneers fanatic and season ticket holder, Butch was an active member of her community. She worked for WBRD local radio station in Bradenton and built a career at the Manatee County Tax Collector’s Island Branch of-

fice in Holmes Beach, where she later retired. She volunteered her time with the Anna Maria Elementary PTA and served as a softball coach at the Anna Maria Island Community Center. She also worked as a seamstress and tap instructor for Tracey Vita dance studio and was involved with the Democratic party and the Daughters of the American Revolution. She remained fiercely loyal to her family and many friends, including those at her favorite local spot, Duffy’s Tavern in Holmes Beach. She is survived by her loving husband, James (JC) Carden; her sons, Patrick Carden (spouse Connie) and Timothy Carden; and her sister-in-law, Gale (Burkhardt) Carter. She leaves behind four beloved grandchildren: Ryane Fitzwater, Catherine Sikes (Jake), Joshua Carden (McKenna), and Connor Carden, as well as three greatgrandchildren: Knox Fitzwater, Ellie Sikes, and Ryder Carden. She is also survived by several nieces, nephews and cousins in Florida, Ohio and Texas. Butch was predeceased by her parents; her siblings, Nancy Rae (Carter) Bennett (spouse Mel

Bennett) and Richard Wayne Carter; and her daughter-in-law, Robin (Jacuk) Carden. A family memorial will be held at a later date. Donations may be made to Tidewell Hospice. Memories and condolences may be shared at ShannonFuneralHomes.com.

Duane Dean Cowgill

Duane Dean Cowgill passed away peacefully after a brief illness on May 2, 2026. Duane was a lov ing husband and devoted father. He was a barber for 70 years and an avid fisherman all his life. He could be found fishing daily the Gulf Coast waters around Anna Maria Island for the past 33 winters. He spent most early mornings on the Rod & Reel Pier before heading to Holmes Beach Barbershop where he did what he loved. His wife, children, grandchildren and great grandchildren will miss his laughter, positive outlook and loving spirit. He was a wonderful role model for all who knew him.

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BB POLICE: Commission chooses police department over sheriff’s office

Former Bradenton Beach commissioner and longtime business owner Jake Spooner broke down the numbers involved in keeping the city’s police department.

“I put the numbers together.

The $700,000 to $800,000 (savings) that’s been thrown out there, but if you take off the $279,000 that the force actually brings in, that actually makes it a $490,000 difference. Then, if you add the overtime and holidays, that’s going to knock it down significantly. That amount is unknown. If you take the CRA money off that, the difference is $347,000,” Spooner said.

Regarding the property tax implications associated with the estimated cost savings, Spooner said, “A house that’s $1.43

million in assessed value pays $22,000 year in property taxes. Out of that, Bradenton Beach gets $3,300, so the amount of savings that we’re saving between our police force and the sheriff is about a 7-to-10-percent savings on that portion of Bradenton Beach taxes. That equals one percent of your total tax bill.

So, on the $22,000, you’re talking about saving $234, which is very insignificant.

You get what you pay for, and everyone seems really happy with what we’ve paid for,” Spooner said.

“The majority of our homes out here are owned by corporations and LLCs and they’re carrying the major cost of our budget,” he said of the property taxes paid on the vacation rental homes and the nonprimary residences that don’t receive taxsaving homestead exemptions. Spooner said that after

the first year of the contract, the city would have no negotiating strength with the sheriff’s office.

In reference to the city of Anna Maria’s use of the sheriff’s office, Spooner said, “Anna Maria, just this year, went up 13%. There won’t be any savings.”

Bradenton Beach resident Sharon Clarke said, “This shouldn’t even be a question, because we have something totally unique here and the uniqueness of our city requires that we keep our police and everything they do for us.”

After public comment

ended, Chappie said, “By my count, we’re all unanimous in wanting to continue with our police department. We thank the sheriff’s office for giving us an opportunity to compare.”

After the meeting, some of the officers expressed their gratitude.

“We were very wellsupported and I’m very thankful for having my

job,” Officer Eric Hill said. Officer Devon Straight said he was thankful to the community and appreciative of people who came to the meeting.

“It’s great to have the support of the community and see that they recognize us,” Officer Kyle Orms said.

OUTSIDER: comedically addresses politics and government

strong ties to a cable news network and is always on the hunt for the next great political candidate. While he has his doubts about Newley’s political viability, Arthur is instantly enthralled with LuLu and the political possibilities stemming from her meteoric rise in popularity.

Valerie Lipscomb plays Rachel Parsons, the TV news reporter who finds herself shackled by a boss who insists she throw Newley and LuLu nothing but “softball” questions when interviewing them.

Making his second consecutive appearance in an Island Players’ production, newcomer Evan Bradshaw plays A.C. Petersen, Rachel’s mostly silent TV news cameraman. During the second act, Ned and A.C. engage in a poignant off-camera discussion about the real purpose and the reallife impacts of government. The sentiments expressed

during this beautiful twoperson scene can be applied to the sometimes unnoticed and under-appreciated impacts the three Anna Maria Island governments make on the Island community – and the higher-level impacts county, state and federal governments make on our daily lives.

CAST COMMENTS

Immediately after the May 6 preview performance, Steiger said, “It’s fun to play a character with an arc and different layers and levels. I’m able to

be comedic and I also get a chance to dig deep as this play asks some nice questions. It’s thrilling and intimidating to play this role.”

Kwiatkowski said, “I love playing LuLu, although I feel I might be a little more intelligent than she is. She sure is fun to play. A lot of people wanted this role and I was happy to get it. The play is a really good representation of what government is supposed to be, with the added ingredient of humor. It’s a wonderful play.”

Kwiatkowski’s husband,

Rodney, is the fire marshal for the West Manatee Fire and Rescue District and the couple met during an Island Players’ production many years ago.

Lipscomb, a former journalist, said, “When I was in my twenties, I edited a small newspaper. I also worked on my college newspaper. I absolutely believe the words coming out my mouth on stage as an idealistic journalist. This is a really good show and a really good script. It’s a pleasure to be involved

with this cast. We’re making fun of politics, but politics are the heart of the show.” Tickets for “The Outsider” are $20-$30 and are available online at TheIslandPlayers.org. Tickets are also available at the Island Players’ box office during the week and, if available, before each show starts. For more information, call 941-7785755. The Island Players Theatre is located at 10009 Gulf Drive in Anna Maria.

FUN IN THE SUN

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RENTALS: ANNUAL

BEAUTIFUL PERICO BAY Club Condo! 2BR/2BA, Second Floor Unit $3500/ mo seasonally, $2300/mo annually +Security Deposit Please call 941-7781979 for more details.

AMI BRADENTON BEACH 6 month or one year lease. Furnished 2BR/1BA. $1700/mo water, cable TV, internet included. Call/ Text 517-548-1327

IN HOLMES BEACH

2BR/2BA Annual Rental. Off street parking. First & Security deposit. $2300/ mo Please call 941-5658407

ANNUAL PERICO ISLAND

2BR/2BA $2000/mo, unfurnished, ground floor, 1200sqft, utilities included, pool/tennis/gym, parking/storage, pets ok, no smoking, application required, call 941-7132328

RENTALS: SEASONAL & VACATION

ANNA MARIA ISLAND CONDOS Large pool, beach access, free WiFi, 1&2 Bedroom $900 to $1200 per week redekercondosonami.com Tim 941-704-7525

TIFFANY PLACE Gulf Front Condo for Rent Incredible views from living room and master bedroom. 2BR/2BA Green Real Estate Call 941-778-0455

SEASONAL RENTAL in PALMA SOLA. 3BR/2BA weekly or monthly rates. Contact Barb Grace 941201-2190

3BD/2BA HOME ON WATER $2,500 in Holmes Beach. On the water. Parking + all utilities, internet etc. included. Strictly non-smoking. Available April 30 -Jun 8th $2,500. Message 617-518-1240.

TRANSPORTATION

ANYTIME TRANSPORTATION to all Airports, Casino, etc. Tampa/St. Pete $90. Sarasota $45. Pets welcome. Very dependable. Reasonable rates. Contact Jeanne. 941-7795095