The-Islander-Newspaper-E-Edition-Wednesday,-Oct,-01,-2025

Anna Maria on target to restore pier

By Ryan Paice Islander Reporter

Work to restore pedestrian access to the Anna Maria City Pier soon could be underway.

City commissioners planned to select a contractor to rebuild the walkway linking the landside to the T-end at a Sept. 30 special commission meeting, after The Islander’s press deadline.

The city received bids from nine contractors in response to its request for proposals, including:

• Washington-based Ballard Marine Construction;

• Bradenton-based Quality Marine Construction;

• Panama City-based RJ Gorman Contracting;

• Texas-based Russell Marine;

• West Park-based Shoreline Foundation;

• Palm Harbor-based Southern Road and Bridge;

• Gibsonton-based Tampa Bay Marine;

• Fort Pierce-based Underwater Engineering Services;

• West Palm Beach-based YC Group.

While most bids had yet to be revealed as of Sept. 27, the agenda for the Sept. 30 special commission meeting shows that city staff will recommend the selection of Tampa Bay Marine and its $4,641,239 bid to complete the project.

According to information in the packet for the meeting, “Tampa Bay

Marine Inc. was determined to be the most responsive and responsible bidder.

… The firm has extensive marine construction experience throughout the region and holds a valid Florida con-

tractor’s license, as well as a marine specialty license.”

While the selection of a contractor could be near, there might be a ways to

Cortez readies for stone crab delicacy

By Robert Anderson Islander Reporter

It’s the pause before the claws, as Cortez prepares for stone crab season.

Karen Bell, owner of A.P. Bell Fish Co. and Starfi sh Cafe in Cortez, said crabbers are readying their gear for the Oct. 15 opening.

“They’re doing it now. They’ve got their traps ready. They’ve got buoys and the new tags on all their gear. They do that every year,” Bell told The Islander Sept. 24.

While the season starts Oct. 15 and crabbers are allowed to drop traps on Oct. 1, Bell said, “fresh claws most likely won’t be available until the 16th.”

Florida’s commercial stone crab season runs Oct. 15-May 1. By state law, only claws measuring at least 2-7/8 inches can be harvested and crabbers can only remove one claw per crab, which must be returned to the water. Egg-bearing females are off-limits and traps must include escape rings to pro-

Irresistible.

Local trades struggle after hurricanes

By Ryan Paice Islander Reporter

The devastating 2024 hurricane season has had a lingering impact.

Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce president Terri Kinder told The Islander Sept. 26 that the month of September is historically a slow one for local businesses, but might be even slower this year due to the destruction wrought by hurricanes Helene and Milton in 2024.

A couple of local business owners can attest to that.

Bob Slicker, owner of Slicker’s Eatery, 12012 Cortez Road. W., Cortez, told The Islander Sept. 26 that a chair sponsorship program and the community’s support were foremost in keeping his business alive.

The eatery took on 3.5 feet of water in Helene’s storm surge and lost its air conditioning units to Milton.

While the restaurant was closed for repairs, Slicker and the Rotary Club of Anna Maria Island — of which he is a member — focused on supporting the local community.

They donated 97 bicycles and two cars, as well as raised more than $107,000 to fund vouchers for Cortez residents to buy new appliances to replace those lost in the storms.

Slicker and his team also provided free food to locals from a tent outside the restaurant — while it remained closed. Last Thanksgiving, he gave away 368 meals made up of donated turkeys from the Rotary and other food donated from friends and family.

Slicker’s Eatery reopened in February but, so far, it hasn’t been smooth

tect undersized crabs.

Bait shortages this year are complicating preparations. Pigs’ feet, long favored as bait because they last in traps, have become harder to find in recent years as more of the supply is

shipped overseas.

“Prices are off the charts this year,” Bell said of pigs’ feet.

The new season follows a mixed 2024-25 harvest, when Cortez boats landed steady volumes but struggled with “floaters” — claws from molting crabs that carry less meat and fetch lower prices.

This year, captains are hoping for harder shells, which bring better returns.

But another complication is uncertainty in the seafood market. Bell pointed to federal indictments involving five major seafood houses in the state for alleged price-fixing and antitrust violations. The companies are among the biggest buyers of stone crab and their legal issues might impact the industry.

“There’s literally probably less than 10 major dealers in the state and that’s really not good for our industry,” Bell said.

The possible consolidation of buying power adds to what she described as an already difficult line of work.

“It’s labor intensive. It’s hard to find people to help,” Bell said.

Brandon Petefish hand-letters a chair with a message Sept. 23 that is helping Slicker’s Eatery keep its doors open. The campaign to sell chair sponsorships helped owner Bob Slicker pay his rent at the Cortez restaurant. Islander

Municipal matters

Recovery, center stands out

Anna Maria Mayor Mark Short shared in an email to The Islander Sept. 23 his experience when Hurricane Helene sent storm surge and delivered widespread devastation across the island.

“My wife and I were vacationing in Maine when we woke up Friday morning to the news of the devastation that occurred on the island after Helene,” wrote Short, who was a city commissioner in September 2024.

He continued:

“We cut our vacation short and headed to Boston where we were able to get on an early flight back to Tampa Sunday morning.

“By then, the water had receded for the most part but the roads and everything else were still in very bad shape.

“I immediately went to city hall and helped where I could on recovery efforts and logistics. City employees rose to the occasion and worked extremely long hours to push recovery efforts forward as fast as possible.

“A special call out to the contractors who provided immediate assistance as well and deployed equipment and personnel to assist in our recovery efforts.

“When it became evident that Milton was heading our way, efforts were increased to clear and clean as much as possible.

:In addition to the recovery work that stood out, and the responses and actions taken by city employees and the contractor community, the community center, in my opinion, re-invented itself with the assistance it provided to the island community.”

STORM LOSS cONtINUeD FROM PaGe 1

sailing.

Slicker said this summer was “one of the slowest (he’s) ever seen” since he began doing business in the area in 1986.

He attributed the lack of business to the local community’s continuing recovery from last year’s storms, as well as tourists’ hesitation to visit the area during hurricane season, which runs June 1 to Nov. 30.

Altogether, business is down about 60% from last year, according to Slicker.

Between exhaustive recovery efforts, a struggling business and his own medical issues, Slicker said the past year has been the most stressful of his life.

Nevertheless, he credited and thanked the local community for helping to keep his business alive through a chair sponsorship program in which people pay $500 to put their name, a business name, a favorite saying or “any nice thing” on the back of a chair in the eatery.

“That’s the reason we’re still open right now,” Slicker said. “I’m so grateful for my community. … We are surrounded by great people.”

In the meantime, he remains hopeful that the end of storm season will bring some business to the restaurant.

On the other hand, the slow summer has been a death sentence for the Cheesecake Cutie & Cafe, 3324 E. Bay Drive, Holmes Beach.

Cheesecake Cutie was largely unscathed by last year’s storms, as the Benderson strip mall where it is

Following Milton in October 2024, Islander photographer Jacob Merrifield took his drone out to the island to get a bird’s eye view of damages, including at the Bradenton Beach Marina. Islander

Photo: Jacob Merrifield

Looking forward

Holmes Beach Mayor Judy Titsworth emailed The Islander Sept. 26 with news: “My budget passed!!!!” She also wrote about her response to state Sen. Jim Boyd’s and state Rep. Will Robinson Jr.’s joint letter asking for an update on cooperation with the other cities.

Titsworth said she hopes her detailed response “will address many of their concerns and the steps we are taking to be efficient and keep property taxes down.”

She said she’ll be watching their actions in Tallahassee in the 2026 legislative session with the hope they can improve quality of life for Floridians.

Meanwhile, Titsworth said Kim Charren passed her certification test and the city has another flood plain manager on staff. “She is a great asset to our city,” the mayor said.

Charren is building department administrator and community rating system coordinator, having moved to building from code compliance last year.

Titsworth also noted:

• The cities of Anna Maria and Holmes Beach have an interlocal agreement for building permit services on an as-needed basis;

• Construction on a third pickleball court will begin in the near future.

City field is undergoing improvements, including new sod, with completion expected in time for the city’s 75th anniversary event Dec. 5.

Finally, due to a lengthy and interesting response from Titsworth on her personal experience during Hurricane Helene, her reply is posted in its entirety on The Islander website at islander.org.

located was spared from the brunt of their impacts. However, that does not exclude the cafe from the storms’ indirect effects, such as the dampened business over the year since they hit.

Owner Jennifer Geils told The Islander Sept. 26 that business was down about 50% from last year and, consequently, she has set early December for closure.

Geils said the cafe’s lease is set to expire Dec. 31 and she did not plan to renew it due to rising costs and a lack of foot traffic in the plaza.

She said her business was trending up until last year’s storms, but the lack of patrons — especially tourists — since the hurricanes has left it struggling.

“It just has not picked up,” Geils said. “We didn’t have a season. We weren’t busy like we normally were over the past four years from March to July. … I know everyone has seen the difference between this year and last year.”

She said the business has impacted her personal life, so she was looking forward to closing the cafe and moving to Alabama, where she plans to spend more time with her husband and family.

“It just was time to be quite honest,” Geils said. “I think we just need a change in our overall lives. … We’re going to take some time for our family and just get ourselves back on track and connected.”

She added that she plans to continue selling her line of coffee, but it might go under a different name following the dissolution of Cheesecake Cutie.

CITY PIER cONtINUeD FROM PaGe 1

go before Manatee County and the city come to terms on a new ferry dock.

The county has been exploring options for a new ferry landing at the pier since it closed, but the city so far has rejected all proposals.

Mayor Mark Short shared the county’s latest proposal at a Sept. 25 city commission meeting.

It includes a three-part dock that would stretch about 350 feet along the east side of a rebuilt walkway, running from the T-end down.

The structure would include a ferry dock, a landing area for disembarking passengers, as well as an extended gangway for passenger queuing.

It would also feature a wave attenuator on the north end of the dock to make docking easier.

Short said he was not satisfied with the proposal, which would leave about 350 feet of the east side of the pier “encumbered” by the dock structure.

He added that the county was going back to the drawing board to explore other designs for the city to consider.

After the storms

Businesses scramble to get back

In the days after Hurricane Helene sent storm surge across Anna Maria Island, local business owners scrambled to repair, clean up and reopen as residents returned to assess their damages.

Not all businesses reopened in the week after Helene, but more than locals might remember on the first anniversary of the storm.

Though Bradenton Beach was deemed 90%-95% destroyed following Helene, which made landfall in the Big Bend Region on Sept. 26, SALT Bar & Table reopened for the Oct. 5-6 weekend, offering 50% discounts to island workers and providing shuttle service from Walgreens, 3200 E. Bay Drive.

By Oct. 7, other businesses were back in operation, including the Anna Maria General Store, Bortell’s Lounge, City Pier Grill, Mademoiselle Paris, Poppo’s Taqueria, the Porch Restaurant, Slim’s Place and Sushi Ramen in Anna Maria.

In Holmes Beach, businesses reopened by Oct. 7 included The Chateau Anna Maria, Topsail Steamer, Edibles N More, Island Lumber & Hardware, Publix Super Market and Salon Salon of AMI. The businesses at the Anna Maria Island Centre shopping plaza had minimal damage and most kept regular hours after Helene, including Paradise Bagels & Cafe, Cheesecake Cutie, China 1, Holy Cow Ice Cream, Kiwi Fish and Chips, Los Chiludos, Old Hamburg Schnitzelhaus, Zen Nails & Spa, Solo’s Pizza, Island Mail & Print and Walgreens.

But even as they reopened after Helene, island businesses were preparing for Hurricane Milton, which made landfall Oct. 9, 2024, near Siesta Key and sent damaging wind, rain and more flooding to AMI.

The effort to reopen would take longer for some businesses after Milton. And some have yet to unlock their doors.

— Lisa Neff

Holmes Beach mayor responds to consolidation letter

By Ryan Paice Islander Reporter

Efforts to consolidate services on Anna Maria Island haven’t amounted to much.

But Holmes Beach has found other ways to cut costs for property owners.

In a Sept. 23 letter to state Sen. Jim Boyd and state Rep. Will Robinson Jr., both R-Bradenton, Holmes Beach Mayor Judy Titsworth flipped the script by pointing out the city’s recent cost-saving efforts and calling for the state’s help.

Titsworth was responding to an Aug. 28 letter from Boyd and Robinson in which the legislators asked the island mayors to update them on municipal efforts to cut costs for property owners by consolidating services.

Boyd and Robinson asked the mayors to respond by Oct. 1, the first day of fiscal 2025-26.

Titsworth’s letter listed several ways in which the city has worked with Anna Maria and Bradenton Beach to maintain quality services in the face of the devasta-

Launching a campaign

Bradenton resident Marie Masferrer, who has launched a Democratic campaign for the 71st District Florida House seat in 2026, welcomes people to a gathering Sept. 25 at the Manatee Public Beach in Holmes Beach. She was collecting signatures on her candidate petitions. Masferrer, an educator, says her priorities include restoring home rule, reducing the cost of living and ending developer control. For more about Masferrer, go to marie4manatee. org. Will Robinson Jr., R-Bradenton, currently represents the district but cannot run again due to term limits.

Islander Photo: Lisa Neff

tion wrought by last year’s storms.

Those include:

• Providing emergency inspection services to Bradenton Beach during its hurricane recovery efforts;

• Entering an interlocal agreement with Anna Maria to provide building department and flood plain management services;

• Sharing public works equipment and personnel needs with Anna Maria.

Titsworth also pointed to failed consolidation efforts, such as an interlocal agreement that would have put the Holmes Beach Police Department in charge of policing Anna Maria.

“After careful evaluation and review it was determined that the upfront costs to train and outfit an additional nine officers, in addition to the annual costs associated with providing services, would not support a decrease in expenses,” she wrote.

Anna Maria and Holmes Beach also considered an interlocal agreement to share response teams and resources for emergency recovery but determined

that “assisting one another would have slowed down responsiveness and quality of service for island residents,” according to Titsworth.

Despite a lack of consolidation, Titsworth noted in her letter that the city cut costs in other ways, by cutting taxes and reducing flood insurance rates for its property owners.

By maintaining the city’s 1.99 millage rate into the new fiscal year despite a drop in total taxable property value, the municipality will collect $592,500 less in ad valorem revenue than it did last year.

Additionally, the city recently increased its standing in the National Flood Insurance Program’s Community Rating System, from Class 6 to Class 5. The change results in a 25% discount on insurance premiums within the jurisdiction, 5% better than the discount for being in Class 6.

Titsworth asked Boyd and Robinson for their support at the state level by:

• Allowing the use of tourist development tax funds for public safety and infrastructure projects;

• Considering “additional tax to help fund tourismrelated infrastructure”;

• Supporting future state appropriations “to mitigate against the threats of future hurricanes and to accommodate public safety.”

The mayor’s letter came up during a Sept. 25 city commission meeting.

Commissioner Carol Whitmore said she had read the letter and believed it did not address the legislators’ call to save costs through consolidation. Whitmore suggested the city push for an interlocal agreement that would have their building official, Neal Schwartz, provide services for all three island municipalities.

However, Titsworth said she did not want to spread the building department too thin and suggested further cost savings could be achieved at the state level.

“We’re working hard to find every penny we can to decrease the expense to live in the city,” the mayor said. “We’re doing as much as we can.”

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Wine Down Wednesday, 5O% OFF Wines by the Glass ▼ Live Maine Lobster Thursdays, plus Happy Hour in the lounge all nite.

Experts weigh impact of Bradenton sewage spills

By Robert anderson Islander Reporter

Local water experts offered assessments of the impact of 1.7 million gallons of partially treated wastewater that spilled into the Manatee River in September.

They agree the city of Bradenton spill’s immediate effects might be limited, as well as share an opinion that repeated bypasses pose long-term risks to waterways stretching from the river to Anna Maria Island.

According to Dave Tomasko, executive director of the Sarasota Bay Estuary Program, the release involved partially treated effluent with nitrogen levels around 9 milligrams per liter — not raw sewage but still above the state’s 3 mg/L nutrient threshold for direct discharge.

Tomasko told The Islander Sept. 23 that the scale and type of wastewater discharged matters.

“It’s not inconsequential, but it’s far smaller than the billion-plus gallons of overflows we saw between 2013 and 2019,” he said, referencing events that topped 100 million

Free parking but higher fines

People park Sept. 24 on Bridge Street in Bradenton Beach, where city commissioners voted Sept. 18 to raise parking fines from $75 to $100. Fines for unauthorized use of disabled spaces increased to $300. the new fines are in effect as of Oct. 1. Islander

Photo: Robert anderson

gallons each.

He added that because this bypass occurred in a tidal, salty system, pathogens were less likely to persist.

A greater risk comes from nutrient loading that can fuel algae growth, according to Tomasko.

Abbey Tyrna, executive director of Suncoast Waterkeeper, told The Islander Sept. 23 that while nitrogen levels might not have been unusually high, the cumulative effect of repeated bypasses is a concern.

“Tyrna said the issue goes beyond any single discharge and lies in the cumulative impact of repeated bypasses.

“If it wasn’t a problem then we would just be discharging sewage all the time, right? But it is a problem. So we want it to stop,” she said.

Tyrna said repeated discharges contribute to the formation of muck, nutrient-rich sediment that clouds water and prevents seagrass growth.

She compared the risk posed to the Manatee River to the Indian River Lagoon system, where decades of buildup fueled near ecological collapse.

The Manatee River is classified as “impaired” under Florida’s Class III recreational water standards, meaning it fails to meet criteria for safe swimming, paddling or fishing.

Tyrna said that while people continue to use the river, “most people don’t realize it is officially considered unsafe for recreation.”

And pollutants in the Manatee don’t just stay in the river. Currents can carry discharges out toward the north end of AMI — the bayside and the Gulf side.

Tyrna also said Bradenton is behind on infrastructure projects required under a 2022 settlement with Suncoast Waterkeeper, Tampa Bay Waterkeeper, Manasota-88 and Our Children’s Earth Foundation under the Clean Water Act, including a new equalization tank and new disk filters at its treatment plant.

“Had those been in place, this bypass likely wouldn’t have happened,” Tyrna said.

Both Tyrna and Tomasko said climate change, development and population growth make action urgent.

Tomasko said rainfall in Bradenton has become more intense over the past 50 years, with far more days exceeding 5 inches of rainfall.

He said the combination of heavier rain, aging pipes and growing sewage flows has led to repeated overflows.

While he credited the city for committing more than $200 million in upgrades, he said the improvements will take time to show results.

Tyrna said, “I think we can look at Indian River Lagoon as the cautionary tale of, we don’t want this to happen, so we need to not have these discharges for a decade without doing anything.”

Anna Maria budgets $30M

The city of Anna Maria’s largest ever annual spending plan is in the books.

Commissioners unanimously voted Sept. 25 to adopt a $30,151,548 budget and 1.65 millage rate for fiscal 2025-26, which begins Oct. 1.

The 1.65 millage rate is the same percentage as last year, but represents a tax hike due to a 6.48% increase in the city’s total taxable value.

Any rate higher than the rollback rate, a millage that produces the same revenue and spending as the prior year, is a tax increase.

The municipality will net $104,362 more in ad valorem revenue than it did last year as a result.

The $30,151,548 budget is a significant increase from last year and marks the largest annual spending plan in the city’s history, largely due to $16,019,000 in capital outlay expenses. Those costs include $8.2 million to rebuild the Anna Maria City Pier’s destroyed walkway, $2.7 million for stormwater improvements and $1.3 million to finish the Pine Avenue paver and crosswalk project.

Other aspects of the budget — general government and public works expenses, as well as parks and recreation costs — have deflated.

The budget also includes $1,538,540 less in reserves than due to hurricane costs.

Mayor Mark Short has said the reserves will be replenished from reimbursement funding.

There was no public comment.

— Ryan Paice

Election 2025

Registration deadline Oct. 6

The last date to register to vote ahead of the municipal election in Holmes Beach is Monday, Oct. 6.

Some other dates and deadlines for the Holmes Beach commission contest:

• Deadline to request a mail ballot: 5 p.m. Thursday, Oct.

• Election Day polling: 7 a.m.-7 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 4.

Meanwhile, people who have voted by mail in past elections can check the status of their mail ballot request at the Manatee County Supervisor of Elections website at votemanatee.com.

A state law passed in 2021 limits the duration of requests for vote-by-mail ballots to all elections through the end of a calendar year of the next regularly scheduled general election, which requires voters to review their status and renew their requests.

— Lisa Neff

AM no-swim order at Bean Point fails

By Ryan Paice Islander Reporter

Enforcement takes precedence.

Anna Maria Mayor Mark Short’s veto of an emergency ordinance will stand.

City commissioners agreed Sept. 25 not to override Short’s veto of an emergency ordinance that would have codified a no-swim zone at Bean Point, with an exemption for residents with riparian rights in the area.

The ordinance was unanimously approved Sept. 11 by the commission and would have lasted 60 days had Short not vetoed it on Sept. 15.

He said at the Sept. 25 meeting that the ordinance would be “basically impossible” to enforce due to the special exemption for certain residents and their guests.

Two drownings in the waters off of Bean Point over the month of August spurred the city to install “No Swimming” signs along the shoreline, from the Fern Avenue beach access to the city’s northernmost beach access between 831 and 833 N. Shore Drive.

Since the emergency ordinance was shot down,

leaving the no-swimming zone without code to back it, those signs have been replaced. New signs, posted at each beach access point in the area and along the shoreline, state “Warning | Dangerous Currents | Swim At Your Own Risk | No Lifeguards”.

Commissioner Christopher Arendt acknowledged Short’s veto was “probably the right choice” given the enforcement concerns and voiced support for the new signs.

There was no motion to override the mayoral veto.

Holmes Beach locks in lower budget for 2025-26

AMI’s biggest city has locked in a smaller budget for the new fiscal year, which begins Oct. 1.

City commissioners unanimously voted Sept. 25 on motions to adopt a $22,075,146 budget and 1.99 millage rate for fiscal 2025-26.

The 1.99 millage rate is carried over from 2024-25 but the percentage represents a tax decrease due to an 8.15% drop in property value in the municipality.

Q&A

The Islander poll

Did September tourism on aMI feel down?

A. Yes, a lot fewer visitors.

B. No, seemed the same as other Septembers.

C. No, more crowded than typical.

To answer the poll and see poll results, go to islander.org.

By maintaining the millage rate, the city will collect $592,500 less in ad valorem revenue than it did last year.

The tax drop goes hand-in-hand with a $3,158,450 decrease in total spending, from $25,233,596 in 2024-25 to $22,075,146.

The decrease can be attributed to drops of more than $2 million in unrestricted reserves, $1,364,000 in capital outlay expenses, $687,771 in personnel costs and $437,644 in operating expenses.

On the other hand, the city projects $500,000 more in building permit revenue and is counting on $1,267,374 in disaster reimbursement funding from the Federal Emergency Management Agency to add to the coffers.

There was no public comment.

— Ryan Paice

aBOVe LeFt: Beachwalkers on the shore Sept. 24 at Bean Point. aBOVe: a sign warns beachgoers at Bean Point in anna Maria about dangerous currents in the area, where two recent drownings have occurred. Islander Photos: Robert anderson

The worst storm in memory

Many island old-timers — and by now I have to face the truth and count myself among them — will agree, Hurricane Helene was the worst storm in memory.

Other storms have come close, with wind and waves that rippled through the island cities, resulting in destruction — downed power lines and trees, broken windows and standing water in the streets that sometimes sloshed into homes.

But, none like Helene.

I can recall many years back, maybe 15, when we managed to escape landfall and strong tides from storms, when Mike Norman called me and wanted to know why all the meteorologists were forecasting large storm surges that never came.

Well, we didn’t wish for it, but we sure got it.

I had a friend who shot video at one of the beach access areas where he stood 3-feet deep in water as a beach bench came crashing through the access in a rush of water, floating swiftly past him as he dodged the flotsam, jetsam and trash that came with it.

Another islander — raised here since early childhood — helped rescue a woman and one of her pets as her home burned. With no where to go, he helped guide her in 3-foot deep water to a nearby elevated home where they gladly welcomed her and her pet to stay over and ride out the storm.

He walked from Holmes Beach to the Sandbar restaurant in Anna Maria, where he shot a rip tide at the front entry as the Gulf of Mexico crashed into the building and rushed around the sides, joining in a vortex of surf rushing toward the parking lot.

In Bradenton Beach, surf and sand moved west to east through buildings, pushing everything aside, burying Gulf Drive and leaving a mass of sand that took weeks to remove, sift and return to the beaches. It was the worst of times for Anna Maria Island.

My own trials, living about a mile off the island in Flamingo Cay, were nothing in comparison.

My house had about an inch and a half of water inside and as quickly as the tide turned that night, I had swept it all out the door before the power went off at 12:30 a.m. The office was another story.

To everyone who stayed home thinking Helene would brush by us without great harm — like me — I’m sure you also have a story of survival.

And for everyone who survived and went to work helping others in the weeks after the storm, thank you. We send our deep gratitude to the you all.

We wouldn’t be AMI without our community.

— Bonner Joy

Your opinion

77th season begins

The Island players have wonderful plays for you to see in our little theater on Anna Maria Island.

Life is something we all take for granted and theater brings a chance to see life in many forms: the comedy, the drama, the tragedy, the thought-provoking plays all have their place.

10-20-30 years ago

From the Sept. 28, 1995, issue

• The Florida Department of Transportation announced plans to close the Cortez Bridge for 30 days beginning Oct. 3 for a $2 million renovation.

• Hall of Fame baseball player Warren Spahn confirmed that he and his son were building a Gulffront home on Fir Avenue in Anna Maria.

▼ Publisher, editor

Bonner Joy, news@islander.org

▼ Editorial Robert anderson, robert@islander.org

Joe Bird, editorial cartoonist Kevin cassidy, kevin@islander.org

Jack elka, jack@jackelka.com

Lisa Neff, lisa@islander.org

Ryan Paice, ryan@islander.org

▼ Contributors

Jacob Merrifield

capt. Danny Stasny, fish@islander.org

Sean Murphy

▼ Advertising Sales

Ingrid Mcclellan, ingrid.theislander@gmail.com ads@islander.org

▼ Lisa Williams info@, accounting@, classifieds@, subscriptions@islander.org

▼ Distribution

Urbane Bouchet

Ross Roberts

Judy Loden Wasco

▼ Webmaster Wayne ansell All others: info@islander.org

We thank our wonderful volunteers and production team for making this all possible. Thanks for the continuing generosity of our sponsors, allowing us to keep the theater in such good shape.

Do sit back and enjoy.

Island Players president Denise Handley

Editor’s note: The Island Players opened the season with “Janu” and Handley wrote the message above for playgoers.

Letters to the editor

Please, submit your opinion with name, address and contact phone number to news@islander.org.

Looking back

Pete’s place Pete and eleanor Reynard of Pete Reynard’s Yacht club Restaurant in Holmes Beach pose for a formal portrait in august 1969.

From the Sept. 28, 2005, issue

Holmes Beach Mayor Carol Whitmore responded to Anna Maria commissioners, who refused to allow a citizens’ referendum on a consolidation study. Whitmore said people in the northern city should be prepared to pay their “fair share” of repaving Gulf Drive in Holmes Beach in 2007.

• Anna Maria Elementary School students gathered to celebrate Peace Day and made pinwheels that symbolized world peace.

• An outbreak of red tide in the Gulf of Mexico intensified and impacted much of Southwest Florida, including Anna Maria Island. Dead fish were found on the beaches and respiratory problems plagued some people on the coast.

From the Sept. 30, 2015, issue

• Holmes Beach commissioner Jean Peelen called for a return to a 35-mph speed limit on parts of Marina and Gulf drives just weeks after Police Chief Bill Tokajer instituted a 25-mph speed limit in most of the city.

• Bradenton Beach residents were discussing a grassroots push for a city building moratorium to slow the development of vacation rentals.

— Lisa Neff

The Islander is archived online by the University of Florida library at www.ufdc.ufl.edu.

compiled by Lisa Neff, calendar@islander.org

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT ON AMI

Monday, Oct. 6

6 p.m. — Art House Cinema, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Info: 941-778-6341, mymanatee.org.

Friday, Oct. 3

5-7 p.m. — First Friday exhibit and fashion show, Island Gallery and Studios, 456 Old Main, Bradenton. Info: 941-778-6648, islandgalleryandstudios.com.

ONGOING OFF AMI

• Through October, Island Gallery and Studios “Reimagine and Imagination: Photography and Paper Mache” exhibit by Joe Dombroski and Tom Goldman, 456 Old Main, Bradenton. Info: 941778-6648, islandgalleryandstudios.com.

• Through Oct. 10, “Create: An Open, All Media Juried Exhibit,” Herrig Center for the Arts, 209 Ninth St. W., Bradenton. Info: 941746-2862.

• Through Jan. 11, “Yoshida Hiroshi: Journeys through Light,” The Ringling, 5401 Bay Shore Road, Sarasota. Fee applies except Mondays. Info: 941-359-5700, ringling.org.

• Through April 12, 2026, “Ancestral Edge: Abstraction and Symbolism,” The Ringling, 5401 Bay Shore Road, Sarasota. Fee applies except Mondays. Info: 941-359-5700, ringling.org.

• First Fridays, 6-9:30 p.m., Village of the Arts First Fridays Artwalk, 12th Street West and 12th Avenue West, Bradenton. Info: villageofthearts.com.

• Second and fourth Saturdays, 2-4 p.m., Florida Maritime Museum’s Music on the Porch, 4415 119th St. W., Cortez. Info: 941-708-6120, floridamaritimemuseum.org.

SAVE THE DATES

• Oct. 11, Bridge Street Merchant’s Sundown Get Down celebration, Bradenton Beach.

• Oct. 16-Nov. 2, Manatee Players’ “Misery,” Bradenton.

• Oct. 18, Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce’s Bayfest, Anna Maria.

• Oct. 23-Nov. 1, Manatee Players’ “Hello Dolly,” Bradenton.

• Oct. 30, Hocus Pocus Pops, Bradenton.

• Nov. 8, Nov. 10, Pops Orchestra of Bradenton and Sarasota Rhinestone Cowboys and National Heroes concert, Bradenton. KIDS & FAMILY ON AMI

Wednesday, Oct. 1

Imagine at IGS “Penguin Family” by tom Goldman. throughout October, Island Gallery and Studios will present the “Reimagine and Imagination: Photography and Paper Mache” exhibit, work by Joe Dombroski and tom Goldman at 456 Old Main St., Bradenton. For more information, go to islandgalleryandstudios.com. Islander courtesy Photo

Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Info: 941-778-6341, mymanatee.org.

Thursday, Oct. 2

10 a.m. — Toddler Playdough, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Info: 941-778-6341, mymanatee.org.

Saturday, Oct. 4

10 a.m. — Teddy Bear Workshop, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Info: 941-778-6341, mymanatee.org.

Monday, Oct. 6

10 a.m. — Trick or Treat, Win Something Good to Eat, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Info: 941-778-6341, mymanatee.org.

ONGOING ON AMI

• Most Fridays, 10 a.m., Forty Carrots, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Info: 941-778-6341.

• Most Tuesdays, 10 a.m., Family Storytime, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Info: 941-778-6341.

SAVE THE DATES

• Oct. 13, Goblin Gathering, Bradenton.

• Oct. 18, AME PTO Fall Festival, Anna Maria.

• Oct. 25, Halloween Fall Festival, Palmetto.

• Oct. 31, Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce Trail of Treats, AMI business districts.

• Oct. 31, Halloween Celebration, Bradenton.

• Nov. 28, Tree Lighting, Palmetto.

CLUBS & COMMUNITY

Wednesday, Oct. 1

DEVINE DESIGN

ON AMI

5-7 p.m. — Anna Maria Island Historical Society celebration and ribbon-cutting at Belle Haven cottage, 402 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Info: 941-778-0492.

Thursday, Oct. 2

1 p.m. — Sunshine Stitchers Knit and Crochet, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Info: 941-778-6341.

Friday, Oct. 3

3 p.m. — Adult Coloring Club, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Info: 941-778-6341, mymanatee.org.

ONGOING ON AMI

• Most Fridays and Tuesdays, 11:30 a.m., mahjong, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Info: 941-778-6341, mymanatee.org.

• First and third Tuesdays, noon, Rotary Club of Anna Maria Island luncheons, the Beach House patio, 200 Gulf Drive N., Bradenton Beach. Fee applies. Info: www.amirotary.org.

• Most Saturdays, 8:30 a.m., Kiwanis Club of Anna Maria Island meets, Bradenton Beach City Hall, 107 Gulf Drive N. Info: 941-7300016.

• Most third Mondays, 1 p.m., Center of Anna Maria Island Book Club, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria. Info: 941-778-1908, centerami.org.

SAVE THE DATES

• Oct. 16, Rotary Club of Anna Maria Island’s Pints for Polio fundraiser, Cortez.

• Nov. 1, Unite and Rise for Democracy, Bradenton.

• Nov. 1, Bishop’s A Celestial Affair gala, Bradenton. PUBLIC MARKETS

ONGOING ON AMI

• Tuesdays, through April, Anna Maria Community Farmers Market, 9 a.m.-2 p.m., Roser Memorial Community Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Info: 941- 778-1908.

• Most Wednesdays, Fridays, Sundays, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Coquina Beach Market, south Coquina, Bradenton Beach. Info: coquinabeachmarket.org.

ONGOING OFF AMI

• Saturdays, through May, 9 a.m.-2 p.m., Bradenton Public Market, Old Main, Bradenton. Info: 941-301-8445.

SAVE THE DATES

• Oct. 10, Market Night in City Center, Holmes Beach.

• Nov. 14, Market Night in City Center, Holmes Beach.

• Nov. 29-30, Mistletoe Market, Holmes Beach.. LESSONS & LEARNING ON AMI

Wednesday, Oct. 1

10 a.m. — Creative Aging: Pastels, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Info: 941-778-6341, mymanatee.org. Wednesday, Oct. 8

10 a.m. — Creative Aging: Pastels, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Info: 941-778-6341, mymanatee.org.

SAVE THE DATES

• Oct. 24, Florida Maritime Museum Folk School mosaic class, Cortez.

• Oct. 30, FMM Folk School bonsai class, Cortez. SPORTS & FITNESS

SAVE THE DATES

• Oct. 25, Center of Anna Maria Island Youth Athlete Combine, Anna Maria.

OUTDOORS & NATURE OFF AMI

Friday, Oct. 3

6 p.m. — Game Night at the NEST, Robinson Preserve, 840 99th St. NW, Bradenton. Info: 941-748-4501, mymanatee.org.

ONGOING OFF AMI

• Saturdays, 9 a.m., Manatee County Natural Resources Department’s Saturday Mornings at the NEST, Robinson Preserve, 840 99th St. NW, Bradenton. Info: 941-748-4501, mymanatee.org.

SAVE THE DATES

• Nov. 8, Kringles & Kayaks benefit, Bradenton.

• Dec. 18-21, Palma Sola Botanical Park’s Winter Nights Under the Lights, Bradenton.

KEEP THE DATES

• Oct. 13, Columbus Day.

• Oct. 13, Indigenous Peoples’ Day.

• Oct. 31, Halloween.

Historical

reopens cottage with ribbon-cutting

The Anna Maria Island Historical Society is holding a ribbon-cutting for the reopening of the Belle Haven Cottage on the museum grounds, 402 Pine Ave., Anna Maria.

A couple of inches of floodwater during Hurricane Helene intruded into the cottage and Belle Haven’s floors needed cleaning. Volunteers spent September making the cottage sparkle, according to a news release.

AMIHS will be serving light bites and beverages during the public celebration, which will be 5-7 p.m.

A ribbon-cutting with the Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce is planned.

For more information, call 941-778-0492.

After the storms

The show goes on at Island Players

It’s incredible to think that it was a year ago that Hurricane Helene threatened our state, our island and our Island Players theater.

Miraculously, despite a tempest that could have spelled the final act in our long history, this little theater stood firm in the teeth of the storm.

But this meant curtailing one show and postponing another while we assessed any damage and ensured the building was safe for staff and audiences alike.

It was another small miracle that our entire cast and crew for “A Doublewide, Texas Christmas,” scheduled for last fall, have returned a year later to finish the job they started.

Despite what nature may throw at us, we feel so lucky to be able to say, “The show will go on.”

— Island Players executive director Sylvia Marnie

Editor’s note: “A Doublewide, Texas Christmas,” scheduled for an Island Players’ run last November, will be presented Nov. 13-23 at the Anna Maria playhouse, 10009 Gulf Drive.

Stories of loss, recovery

A year ago, Hurricane Helene struck AMI, destroying buildings, disrupting lives and damaging businesses. Soon after, Hurricane Milton delivered another devastating blow to AMI.

As we mark the anniversaries of these life-changing storms, The Islander invites readers to share their recollections — not just of the hurricanes, but of the days that followed, the losses endured and the recovery that continues.

Where were you then? Where are you now?

Share your words and images with The Islander at news@islander.org

— Lisa Neff

First-grader Forrest Bystrom shakes hands Sept. 25 with Beth Brady of the Save the Manatees club during a Fin awards ceremony at aMe.

Island happenings

compiled by Lisa Neff

Fin-tastic day at Anna Maria Elementary

Beach market returning

People browse the vendor tents at the coquina Beach Market in May 2024. the market is returning for a 2025-26 season. the first market at the Bradenton Beach location was set for 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 1. Markets will take place during those hours most Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays through the season. For more information on attending or becoming a vendor, go to the coquina Beach Market page on Facebook. Islander

Kindergartner cash Lancaster shakes hands with Sandra HaasMartens of the Kiwanis club of anna Maria Island during a Sept. 25 Fin awards at anna Maria elementary in Holmes Beach. the awards honor students who demonstrate mascot Fin the dolphin’s values of friendship — integrity and noteworthy behavior. Islander

Robert anderson

Beth Brady of the Save the Manatee club addresses anna Maria elementary students during a Sept. 25 Fin awards ceremony. Brady talked about manatees and efforts to protect them.

Gathering

By Lisa Neff

Roser Food Pantry lists needed items

The volunteers with Roser Food Pantry have issued a request to boost the pantry’s supplies.

The list includes toothpaste, toothbrushes, bar soap, travel toiletries, canned peas, canned carrots, canned black beans, canned kidney beans and canned fruit.

Donations can be dropped off at the Roser Memo-

Episcopal church to host blessing of animals

The Episcopal Church of the Annunciation invites the public to celebrate St. Francis Day at 10 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 4.

The church, 4408 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, will hold a Blessing of the Animals. Everyone is welcome.

For more information, call 941-778-1638 or go to amiannunciation.org.

GoodDeeds

Assistance offered on AMI

• Roser Food Bank welcomes applicants for food assistance, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Info: 941-778-0414.

• All Island Denominations offers financial help. Info: 941-778-4769.

Assistance sought on AMI

• All Island Denominations accepts financial donations at P.O. Box 814, Anna Maria, FL 34216. Info: 941-778-4769.

• Anna Maria Island Concert Chorus and Orchestra seeks volunteers, donors and a venue space. Info: info@amicco.org.

• Anna Maria Island Historical Society, 402 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, seeks donations for restoration and volunteers. Info: 608-444-0084.

Obituaries

Bonnie Jean Bickal

Bonnie Jean Bickal, 86, of Bradenton and formerly a resident of Holmes Beach for 56 years, died Sept. 12. She lived her last four years in Bradenton.

She was born March 26, 1939, in LaJunta, Colorado, to Harold and Louise Bricker.

After the storms: A church lost Gloria Dei Lutheran church in Holmes Beach is surrounded by floodwaters Sept. 26, 2024, ahead of Helene’s passage in the Gulf. the church suffered damage during Helene and Milton and closed in January. Islander File Photo: Jacob Merrifield

rial Community Church office, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Monday-Friday.

Financial donations can be mailed to Roser Church, PO Box 247, Anna Maria, FL 34216, or sent online at www.roserchurch.com/give.

For more information, call the Roser Church office at 941-778-0414.

Palma Sola park calls for volunteers to dig in

The Palma Sola Botanical Park will hold a series of garden workdays with volunteers digging into garden chores in the 2025-26 season, beginning on Oct. 21. Other dates at the park are 9800 17th Ave. NW., Bradenton, include Nov. 19 and, in 2026, Jan. 20, Feb. 17, March 17, April 22 and May 19.

Volunteers will be asked to work 9 a.m.-noon during the gardening days.

A notice on social media said people of all ability levels are welcome, “we’ll supply the tools, water, snacks and fresh air.”

For more information, call the park at 941-7612866.

Milestones

The Islander welcomes stories about islanders and island life, as well as photographs and notices of the milestones in readers’ lives — weddings, births, anniversaries, travels, obituaries and other events. Submit your story with contact information to news@islander.org.

After the storms: Safe passages capt. Devon calderon waits for passengers to board his vessel at the Kingfish Boat Ramp in Holmes Beach Sept. 25, 2024. calderon helped ferry people to and from the island after Hurricane Helene. Islander File

She was a teacher’s aide at Anna Maria Elementary for almost 20 years, retiring in June 2000. She loved the children and enjoyed helping and watching over them. She had many good friends among the teachers and staff.

Mrs. Bickal was a longtime member of Roser Memorial Community Church and a member of the Roser Women’s Guild.

A memorial service will be Monday, Oct. 13, at 11 a.m. at Skyway Memorial Gardens in Palmetto.

The family thanks Brookdale Palma Sola Senior Living and Affinity Hospice Care for their loving care. Memorial donations may be made to Roser Church or Affinity Hospice Care.

Mrs. Bickal is survived by her daughters, Laurie and husband Jim Ferrara, Sherry and her son Mark; sister Karen Nickel of Winfield, Kansas; sister-in-law Rita Singh of Arvada Colorado; four grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; and three nephews and some cousins.

RoadWatch

Eyes on the road

Cortez Bridge utility relocation project: Pipe installation and related activities are ongoing in preparation for the construction of the new Cortez Bridge. People can expect the presence of work crews and

At your service

Obituaries are offered as a service to residents and families of residents, both past and present, as well as to those people with ties to the island. Submit to news@islander.org. Obituaries are provided free — a service of your community newspaper. Paid obituaries can be discussed with our advertising consultant at 941-778-7978.

slowed traffic through next spring, 7 a.m.-7 p.m. Monday-Friday. Info: 941-306-4660, info@amiprojects.io, amiprojects.io.

Bradenton Beach street, beach access repairs: Through Oct. 31, Bradenton Beach is making hurricane-related improvements and repairs. Info: BBPD’s Facebook page.

75th Street West at Manatee Avenue West : Manatee County is working on its 75th Street West Improvements Project from 19th Avenue West to Second Avenue West, including at the Manatee Avenue intersection. Motorists can expect delays. Info: mymanatee.org/75th.

— Lisa Neff

Fatal shooting of high school student results in 20-year sentence

By Robert anderson Islander Reporter

Carter Thomas Layne, 19, of Palmetto was sentenced Sept. 24 to 20 years in state prison for fatally shooting 16-year-old Jann Michael Feeney.

Layne was convicted of manslaughter with a firearm in the March 8, 2024, killing, state attorney Ed Brodsky announced.

The charge carried a possible penalty of 30 years in prison. At the sentencing hearing, the court imposed a 20-year term prison, followed by six months of house arrest and 4.5 years of probation with conditions.

According to trial evidence and witness testimony, Layne had been drinking alcohol and smoking marijuana during a gathering March 8, 2024, in Bradenton. Throughout the day and evening, he repeatedly brandished a revolver, “dry firing” it at others despite being told to stop.

Later that evening, JM Feeney, a Manatee High School student, asked Layne if the gun was loaded. In response, Layne pointed the firearm at Feeney and fired, striking him in the chest and killing him instantly.

JM Feeney, remembered as a dedicated athlete and beloved student, worked at the Beach House Restaurant in Bradenton Beach alongside his mother and sister. He also played sports at the Center of Anna Maria Island.

Streetlife

Anna Maria

No new reports.

Bradenton Beach

Sept 16, 200 Bridge St., Historic Bridge Street Pier, theft. The Bradenton Beach Police Department received a report of stolen backpack, left on a chair while fishing. Security video from Anna Maria Oyster Bar showed the theft. The theft remains under investigation.

Cortez No new reports.

Holmes Beach

Sept. 17, 100 block of 45th Street, pedestrian injury. A woman with medically impaired vision told the Holmes Beach Police Department she fell into an opening in a sidewalk that had not been marked off for safety. The woman’s husband said he saw people installing fiber optic cables. He took his wife to a local hospital, where she was treated for a laceration on her leg, a toe injury and a ruptured blood vessel in her eye. A police officer found a fiber optics crew and was told the opening had not been marked off because work was ongoing there. The woman wanted her medical bills covered, according to a report.

Sept. 22, 200 block of South Harbor Drive, domestic battery. Two HBPD officers responded to reports of a domestic disturbance. They spoke with a man and a woman. Both parties were determined to be aggressors and they both requested restraining orders against each other. An officer filed capias requests to the state attorney’s office for possible charges against both parties, as well as a report to the Florida Department of Children and Families due to the presence of a juvenile.

Streetlife is based on incident reports from the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office, Holmes Beach Police Department and Bradenton Beach Police Department.

— Robert anderson and Ryan Paice

His family and friends attended the sentencing hearing at the Manatee County Judicial Center wearing green, his favorite color, just as they did at vigils held to call for justice in sentencing.

Assistant state attorney Dickey Hough, who led the prosecution, called the shooting “a completely sense-

less and avoidable situation.”

“It is our hope that this outcome brings some measure of justice to the Feeney family for the loss of their loved one, who was by all accounts an extraordinary individual and beloved member of the community,” Hough said in a statement.

Stand-your-ground defense made in Cortez shootings

By Robert anderson Islander Reporter

A Cortez man accused of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon is asking a judge to dismiss his case under Florida’s Stand Your Ground law.

Kevin Armstrong’s defense filed an amended motion Sept. 16 in 12th Judicial Circuit Court claiming he acted lawfully when confronted outside his home by three people, two of whom were armed.

The state charged Armstrong with aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, a third-degree felony, stemming from a June 6, 2024, dispute with his girlfriend, Caitlin Lipke, that left her injured.

The motion alleges that Armstrong told Lipke to leave his Sunny Shores residence after an argument and that Lipke then met at the Cortez Kitchen with Cole Banyas and Dylan Taylor, who phoned Armstrong, threatening to kill him if he refused to hand over Lipke’s belongings.

The motion further maintains that Banyas was armed with a 9-millimeter handgun and that Taylor asked Banyas to drive him to his residence so he could retrieve a firearm. Then Banyas, Taylor and Lipke went to Armstrong’s home, where Lipke allegedly shoved Armstrong while Banyas and Taylor displayed their firearms “in a threatening manner.”

According to the motion, Armstrong discharged a shotgun into the air “as a warning,” prompting Taylor

to fire his gun, emptying a magazine in the direction of the home and striking Lipke in the breast and Armstrong in the foot.

Although witness testimonies details differ between a Manatee County Sheriff’s Office probable cause affidavit and the defense’s motion to dismiss, the MCSO affidavit states that Armstrong was the first to discharge a firearm during the altercation. Statements in the affidavit describe him brandishing and firing a shotgun, and deputies recovered spent shells in the driveway consistent with those accounts.

Based on that information, the MCSO decided there was probable cause to arrest Armstrong.

Armstrong’s attorney, Jon Weiffenbach of Weiffenbach & Reinhart, argues the defendant had the right to defend himself under Florida’s Stand Your Ground law, which allows the use of deadly force without a duty to retreat if a person believes their life is in danger. The statute also provides immunity if a judge determines the use of force was justified.

The court had not ruled on Armstrong’s motion as of Sept. 24.

A jury trial has been scheduled for October.

After the storms: Bradenton Beach residents cherish community in recovery

By Robert anderson Islander Reporter

Ken McDonough remembers the fi rst sign that something was wrong.

“I was in the bathroom and I saw the water coming up through the shower and the toilet started to rise with brown water,” he said. “That’s when I knew we were having a problem big time.”

A year has passed since Hurricane Helene’s storm surge swept across Anna Maria Island. McDonough, who serves on Bradenton Beach’s Planning and Zoning Board, recalls the shock of seeing his ground-level home fill with seawater and sewage.

Helene made landfall as a Category 4 storm near Perry Sept. 26, 2024, more than 120 miles from Anna Maria. But like the displacement from a passing freighter, extreme low pressure from the storm pushed Gulf waters ashore and, by late afternoon, the surge was rising in Bradenton Beach.

By nightfall, water was everywhere.

McDonough and his wife, Denice, live on the corner of 10th Street North and Bay Drive North, right on the bayfront.

“All day we were sitting in our house and it didn’t seem to be a major issue,” he said. But by 3 p.m., with the water rising, he urged Denice to evacuate to a friend’s condo at Summer Sands across the street.

McDonough stayed behind a little longer to secure belongings.

By early evening, the water breached the front door.

“When I went out the garage, I was instantly in the Gulf of Mexico,” he said. Waves were waist-deep and currents swept possessions out under the garage door.

McDonough struggled against the pressure of the surge until he reached the Summer Sands stairwell, where neighbors had gathered.

From the upper floors, they watched the floodwaters rise.

“The waves were high enough to hit you in the chest and back… . It was like you were in the Gulf,” McDonough said.

By night’s peak, water inside his home stood as deep as three feet, with waves pushing it even higher.

The damage was extensive.

“There was nothing left in the house from two feet

Rising high water surrounds Ken McDonough’s bayfront home on Bay Drive North in Bradenton Beach on Sept. 26, 2024. Hurricane Helene made landfall in the Big Bend Region at 11:10 p.m. that day. Islander courtesy Photo

down. It was a cocktail of saltwater and sewage,” he said.

Baseboards, drywall, cabinets and appliances were ruined. Fish swam in his pool. An electric bike in the garage caught fire after being submerged in the saltwater. Fortunately, the fire was smothered by the water that ignited it.

On Sept. 27, the McDonoughs managed to start one of their cars.

Police had cleared a path through sand-clogged Gulf Drive and the couple left the island, driving across the Cortez Bridge. They spent the next month at their second home in Pittsburgh, leaving behind a sealed, sodden house that nurtured mold.

“When we came back, it was a real wake-up call,” he said. “This thing had been incubating for a month. It was horrible.”

The couple began stripping the house in December 2024, after inspectors determined the work would not exceed FEMA’s 50 percent damage threshold. Acting as their own general contractors — an option available

because their home is homesteaded — they tore out drywall and rebuilt cabinets and flooring.

“As soon as we came back, neighbors were in here, gloved up and masked up, helping us clean out. Then we just went house to house. The fellowship was unbelievable,” McDonough said.

By Valentine’s Day 2025, they were back in.

Now, a year after Helene, he and Denice are installing a $30,000-$40,000 flood wall.

“When the water stays where it’s at, this is the best place to live,” McDonough said. “But the minute you hear a storm’s coming around the corner, you go from being relaxed to ‘uh-oh.’”

He said the experience changed how he views barrier island life.

“These islands are called barrier islands for a reason. And even though I love living on these islands, I’m thinking maybe people shouldn’t be living on barrier islands. If you do, you better be prepared to not live here a long time, in case something happens,” he said.

Connections

Skimming online

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Mack attack — Spanish mackerel invade local waters

By capt. Danny Stasny Islander Reporter

You can bet on a catch.

With a large influx of bait fish like scaled sardines and threadfin herring surrounding Anna Maria Island, you can bet you’ll be finding Spanish mackerel in the nearshore waters of the Gulf of Mexico and in the waters of Tampa and Sarasota bays.

The high-speed predators are on the feed as they migrate along our coast and are a popular catch among anglers.

Finding large schools of bait — especially smaller-size bait fish — is a great way to locate the toothy fish. In many instances, you’ll see the mackerel slashing through the schools and even rocketing several feet out of the water as they ferociously feed in preparation of cooler waters approaching from the north.

Targeting mackerel involves variety, including the use of live bait or artificials. Catching macks can be as simple as free-lining a live shiner combined with a long shank hook over any reef, wreck or rock pile where bait is present. And you may not even need to be over structure as long as bait schools are dense. Being a migratory species, mackerel are following the bait — constantly on the move. So fi nding bait schools is a must. But don’t think you have to provide them with live shiners. Casting live shrimp to the gluttonous macks can yield a bite, especially in cooler waters when live shiners are not as abundant.

If live bait isn’t your thing, you’re in luck. Macks are prone to striking artificials. Employing lures can be productive when fishing around piers, jetties and in the passes. Generally, you’ll want to use a lure that matches the size bait the macks are feeding on.

Several spoons, like the Clark spoon or Krocodile spoon, are deadly when targeting macks. A quick retrieve along the edges of the bait schools will usually yield a strike because the macks swim so fast while feeding they don’t have time to decipher whether your spoon is a lure or a fish. They just react to the flash and

the speed of the retrieve.

Other lures, like small jigs will work, too. An assortment of colors is good to have on hand as the macks might prefer one color on a particular day. White, chartreuse or hot pink are the most popular.

Customizing your jigs with some flash can add to their effectiveness.

It’s also advantageous to stock up on jigs and spoons because the macks have razor-sharp teeth. They can cut through a fluorocarbon leader so fast that the angler is unaware of the attack.

You would think the addition of a steel leader would prevent this from happening, and you’re right. But the steel leader will prevent the macks from hitting altogether because they can see that wire leader and quickly turn away.

So prepare to lose some terminal tackle and lures while targeting mackerel. It’s part of the experience.

For gear, medium-light spinning gear is ideal because mackerel are commonly 18-22 inches. Using lighter spinning gear adds some sport to the experience because an angler can feel the power of the high-speed long drag-screaming runs and they will fight to the end when hooked. This combined with a beautiful array of colors displayed once the fish is visible makes the experience memorable, especially once a fish is landed and shows off its razor-sharp teeth.

As for table fare, mackerel are rated as excellent to eat. Although being a high-activity fish, they tend to be on the oily side, which for some is a turn off. Once caught, it’s best to bleed the fish and pack them on ice to preserve the quality of the meat.

It’s also best to prepare macks the day they are caught to ensure a mild, sweet flavor. Mackerel that is days old or that has been frozen can have a fishy taste, as well as a soft texture.

Preparation such as grilling, blackening or frying are good bets. Although many local anglers also boast that macks make great sashimi and sushi when handled properly.

Whether eaten or not, Spanish mackerel are one of the most popular inshore/nearshore species to catch in

our waters.

As we proceed into fall, the bite should get better and better.

On my own Just Reel charters, I’m still catching plenty of mangrove snapper throughout the inshore and nearshore waters surrounding Anna Maria Island. In fact, limits are attainable on most days as long as the waters are calm and the tide is right. Most catches are in the 12-inch range, although fish up to 16 inches are taking our bait.

In many instances, mackerels are present in the same areas as the snapper, leading to plenty of action on the surface as well as a few cut lines.

Snook fishing is quite good along the beaches and the mangroves, which are producing good action on linesiders.

Lastly, spotted seatrout are abundant on most deep grass flats.

Capt. Johnny Mattay says he’s finding plenty of red grouper while working offshore in the Gulf of Mexico. Using live or frozen baits is leading to limits of grouper in depths of 100 feet or more. In depths of 50-60 feet, Mattay has clients catching mangrove, yellowtail and lane snappers — all three on live sardines. He also said chumming for the snappers increases the action.

Moving inshore, Mattay is targeting snook for his clients along the Gulf beaches and in the backcountry along mangrove shorelines. Many catches are 24-26 inches, although keeper-size snook are in the mix.

Redfi sh also are being caught while working the backcountry. Mangrove shorelines, docks and oyster bars are targeted areas for Mattay. And spotted seatrout are being found over deep grass flats and along the beaches. When targeting the trout on the beaches, Mattay says his anglers are hooking up with plenty of macks.

Send high-resolution photos and fishing reports to fish@islander.org.

Final 4 enter football playoffs, horseshoe and golf winners

By Kevin P. cassidy Islander Reporter

Quarterfinal playoff action in the Center of Anna Maria Island’s flag football league took place at Palma Sola Park Sept. 26 with four match ups to decide which teams continue to the final four.

The action kicked off at Palma Sola Park — while the newly sodded center field is settling up — with No. 4 seed Salty Printing taking on No. 5 Coaster Continent in what turned out to be the game of the evening.

The teams traded scores throughout the game, but Coaster Continent ended up on top with a 45-44 victory behind the all-around play of quarterback Matt Manger. Manger threw two touchdown passes and ran for two scores, while also adding two receptions on offense and adding seven flag pulls and an interception on defense.

Steven Pavina also played a big role with one rushing and one receiving touchdown in addition to an extra point. Karri Stephens finished with one rushing and one receiving touchdown, while Cody Allen and Joey Carder each finished with a touchdown catch in the victory.

Quarterback Cory Von Borstel threw six touchdown passes and added a TD reception to go along with six flag pulls and an interception on defense for Salty Printing. Miguel Rodriguez finished with one TD pass and five TD catches for Salty Printing, which also received a TD catch from Logan Heath and a pair of extra-point catches from Amanda Baar in the loss.

The second game of the evening saw Solid Rock Construction cruise past Reel Coastal Properties 37-6 behind five TD passes from Tuna McCracken, including three to David Daigle, who finished with six receptions and an extra point. Blake Balais added a TD catch while finishing with a team-high nine flag pulls and an interception that he returned for a touchdown. David Kesten completed the scoring with a TD catch for

Kiatrell Zachary in the loss.

Solid Rock Electrical blew out Cortez Pump & Sprinkler 52-15 behind six touchdown passes, a rushing touchdown and one touchdown reception from Cruz Rodriguez. Rodriguez also added an interception return for a TD, while Christian Hampton finished with five TD catches in the game.

Donte Filletti threw a pair of TD passes for Cortez Pump, which also received touchdown receptions from David Lopez and Jacob Rairigh in the loss.

Key Royale golf news

Golf action at the Key Royale Club in Holmes Beach teed off Sept. 22 with the men playing a ninehole, modified-Stableford system match. Quentin Talbert and Ed Harrell shared clubhouse bragging rights after they both finished at plus-3.

The ladies played a nine-hole individual-low-net match Sept. 23. Jana Samuels fired a 2-under-par 30 to earn a two-stroke victory over second-place finisher Margrit Layh. Kathy Riorden claimed third place at 1-over-par 33.

Members played a scramble Sept. 25 to close out the week’s golf action. The team of Jim Hill, Bill Shuman, Quentin Talbert and Ron Vandeman fired a 3-over-par 67 to tie Marty Hicks, Jody Maleeny and Bob Maleeny for first place. Bob Baker, Jackie Gorski, John Kolojeski and Doug Kristensen were a stroke back in second place.

Solid Rock in the victory.

Shawn Balvin threw a touchdown pass to Zachariah Anabtawi for Reel Coastal Properties in the loss.

Chase Richardson threw four TD passes and ran for three more to lead Slim’s Place past Edible Cookie Dough Cafe 46-24. Jaden Grant had two touchdown catches, while Tim Holly and Connor Ludwig each added a touchdown grab in the victory.

Dallas Buchholtz threw four TD passes for Edible Cookie Dough Cafe, which also received two TD grabs from Jacob Ferda and one each from Mike Stout and

Horseshoe action

Horseshoe action at the Anna Maria City Hall pits on Sept. 24 saw Tim Sofran and Gersey Fernandes post the lone 3-0 record in pool play, claiming their spot as outright champs.

Two teams emerged from pool play during the Sept. 27 games and settled things in a playoff. Tom Farrington teamed up with Bob Heiger to earn a 21-13 victory over Billy Silver and Tom Lewis to earn the day’s bragging rights.

Play gets under way at 9 a.m. Wednesdays and Saturdays at the Anna Maria City Hall pits. Warmups begin at 8:45 a.m., followed by random team selection.

There is no charge to play and everyone is welcome.

Center sets youth combine

Got speed?

Strength?

Want to test agility?

The Center or Anna Maria Island, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria, will hold a Youth Athlete Combine at 9:30 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 25.

The event is free for youth ages 7-18 but space is limited and registration is required.

Participants will run a 10-yard dash, make a vertical jump, do pullups and more.

For more information, call the center at 941-7781908.

— Lisa Neff

By Lisa Neff

Double disaster pileup

Just days after Hurricane Helene delivered historic storm surge, wind and rain, preliminary damage estimates for the Tampa Bay region indicated that tens of thousands of properties were damaged and destroyed.

On Anna Maria Island, people returning after the storm to assess their property found that the contents of flood-damaged buildings had become trash and debris filled their yards.

People throughout the region encountered the same. At the Madeira Beach Yacht Club in Pinellas County, where my parents own a unit, Helene’s surge destroyed every ground-level condo in a complex of more than 250 units. Owners returned to begin a recovery that’s still ongoing a year later.

An early chore after Helene was to haul out the debris — clothing, furnishings, drywall, shingles, fencing and appliances.

At the yacht club, hundreds of appliances — ovens, dishwashers, refrigerators, air conditioners, water heaters, washers and dryers — were piled into

Nesting notes

By Lisa Neff

2024’s short season

Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring continues to monitor the beaches, with 22 sea turtle nests remaining and a month of hatching left in the nesting season.

The story was different in 2024, when AMITW declared the nesting season ended in early October, a week after Hurricane Helene’s historic flooding and days ahead of Hurricane Milton’s damaging winds.

Before Helene, which made landfall in the Big Bend Region Sept. 26, AMITW was monitoring just eight sea turtle nests.

With the storm approaching, Kristen Mazzarella, AMITW’s executive director, told The Islander, “The beach cams don’t look good. We’re not hopeful that

metal mountains.

I remember looking out a window from my parents’ condo and seeing a solitary, water-logged, muddy doll on the pavement near the piles of possessions.

On AMI, I remember turning from Gulf Drive onto Coconut Avenue days after Helene, and there was so much storm debris in the front yards that I couldn’t see ground-level windows.

The waste was so overwhelming that within hours

they’re going to make it through this surge.”

After Helene, Mazzarella confirmed the nesting season had come to an early end on Sept. 25.

“Essentially, our season is done and the patrol is over,” Mazzarella said.

Six of the eight nests in the sand before Helene were in Bradenton Beach, which was devastated by the storm.

AMITW didn’t want to interfere with the road

Winnie, AMI’s entry in the tour de turtles presented by the Sea turtle conservancy, has traveled about 218 miles in the migration marathon. the loggerhead is swimming in ninth place out of 12 sea turtles.

of contractors clearing Pine Avenue, the curbs were again filled with debris.

Then-Anna Maria Mayor Dan Murphy, in an interview with Islander reporter Ryan Paice Oct. 1, 2024, said the city had 16 trucks on rotation to collect and remove debris — first household waste, then yard waste.

“It’s not just a one-time brush. We’re going to hang with it until we get it all,” Murphy said. “We’re attacking it very vigorously.”

A few days later, the effort to remove debris became more vigorous because Hurricane Milton was threatening the Gulf Coast. With Milton gaining strength in the Gulf, the Florida Department of Transportation deployed several hundred dump trucks across the state, including on AMI, to rush the removal of debris.

In Bradenton Beach, debris was everywhere. Asphalt chunks from a multiuse trail littered Gulf Drive. Sand buried roads. Homes collapsed into one another. Lifeguard stations toppled.

In Holmes Beach, after Milton, the city field held a debris pile the size of the Wisconsin “bunny hill” where I learned to ski.

The amount of waste collected from the two storms just on AMI was staggering to see.

Now, consider all the debris from all the other communities affected by the hurricanes in this state and beyond, and the astronomical environmental impact of landfilling the waste and replacing what’s been ruined.

Even now, as we mark the one-year anniversaries of the storms, we’re still dealing with debris — from recently demolished homes, ongoing repairs and the removal of dying trees.

clearing in Bradenton Beach to check on the nests.

So, the organization turned to finalizing records for the abbreviated season and helping the recovery effort with beach cleanups and litter patrols.

According to AMITW’s last report for 2024, there were 685 total nests, 302 hatched nests and 20,554 hatchlings produced.

Last year’s season was a record-setting season, with the 2024 nest numbers breaking the record of 543 nests set in 2019.

This year also is a record for hatchlings with more than 30,500 hatched sea turtles.

3220 E. Bay Drive, Anna Maria Centre Shops 941-779-1212

Poppo’s expands to Parrish

What began in Anna Maria by the late-Micheal Coleman as a business to bring his family “close to home,” has grown in popularity across the local landscape.

Poppo’s Taqueria will add to its catalog of locations with a new restaurant at Market Walk at the North River Ranch shopping plaza in Parrish in winter 2026, according to the restaurant’s website.

Other locations include the original Anna Maria storefront as well as restaurants at 6777 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton; 4220 53rd Ave. E., Bradenton; 8471 Cooper Creek Blvd., Bradenton; and 1033 Central Ave., St. Petersburg.

Poppos’s offers artisan-style street food, including tacos, burritos, bowls and more made from mostly organic ingredients.

For more info, email info@PoposTaqueria.com — Bonner Joy

State of tourism lunch set

Elliott Falcione, executive director of the Bradenton Area Convention & Visitors Bureau, will discuss the current state of tourism and its impact on Manatee County’s economy at the Manatee Chamber of Commerce’s Headliners Luncheon Oct. 8.

The Wednesday event will begin at 11:30 a.m. at IMG Academy Golf Club, 4350 El Conquistador Parkway, Bradenton.

Falcione will focus on how the region adapts to changes in national and global tourism, a significant economic driver for Manatee County. He also will provide insights into the bureau’s strategies for attracting new and returning visitors to the area, as well as examine the benefits of tourism investments.

For more information, go to manateechamber.com. The chamber’s phone number is 941-748-3411.

— Lisa Neff

Ingman Marine, a fourth-generation, family-owned boat dealership with more than 45 years of service across Southwest Florida has entered into an agreement to acquire Cannons Marina on Longboat Key.

Cannons, a second-generation marina and boat sales operation, is owned by David Miller of LBK.

The acquisition closing is imminent, according to a Sept. 24 Ingman news release.

Cannons Marina will become Ingman’s fourth location, strengthening a long-standing partnership with Grady-White Boats.

Both Ingman Marine and Cannons Marina are award-winning dealerships and, according to the release, their shared reputation for excellence and integrity set the standard for customer satisfaction and long-term loyalty throughout Florida.

cannons Marina in 1958, with the owner’s son, now-owner David Miller, then 8, on the dock. David counted bait for buyers at the store. Islander courtesy Photo

Business news

The Islander welcomes business news, including announcements of operational changes, expansions, achievements.Please, email news@ islander.org with notices, Include a contact name and phone number. Photos appreciated.

Founded in 1955, Cannons is considered Florida’s oldest and most regarded Grady-White dealer, representing the brand for nearly five decades.

“When legacies merge, customers win,” Mike Brimer, CEO of Ingman Marine, said in the release.

“Together, Ingman Marine and Cannons Marina bring more than 135 years of combined history. That means unmatched expertise, trusted service, and award-winning partnership with Grady-White — all continuing for generations to come.”

Cannons is at 6040 Gulf of Mexico Drive.

The websites are cannonsmarina.com and ingmanmarine.com.

For more information, call Ingman’s at 941-6971000.

— Lisa Neff

Bloody Sundays arrive at Doctor’s Office

There’s something new afoot at the Doctor’s Office in Holmes Beach in October and it’s not just the new — since August — owners, Olivia and Chris Mann.

Oh, they’re involved. But the teams that make up the back and front of the house are cooking up something new to soothe what ails — which is mostly the summer-to-fall heat.

They’re serving up bloody mary prescriptions — the spookier, tastier and spicier the better — 11 a.m.1:30 p.m. Sundays, according to an announcement from Chris Mann.

The kitchen is stirring up caldrons of delicious treats for an elevated brunch and they promise patients won’t find these delectables in any other exam room.

On the top of the list of healing, soothing, hungercrushing fare are:

• Deviled Egg Trio, truffle, chipotle and kimchee.

• Benedict with Novey Lobster and hollandaise.

           

• Smoked Salmon Benedict, a diet staple for fans of a lifestyle in paradise.

Meanwhile, weekdays and Saturday patrons can check out the craft cocktail bar and bistro menu at 5312 Holmes Blvd., Holmes Beach. Appointments recommended.

For more information, call 941-213-9926 or email info@doctorsofficeami.com.

— Bonner Joy

the

Office

promotes its newest prescription — Bloody Sundays — a brunch featuring painrelieving bloody marys. Islander courtesy Photo

Special

By Ryan Paice Islander Reporter

A Holmes Beach carwash is set to become a contractor’s office.

City commissioners unanimously voted Sept. 25 to approve a special exception and site plan request to use property at 5804 Marina Drive as an office for Naples-based Marquis Management Construction of Florida.

The property is in the city’s C-3 zoning district, the municipality’s most intensive commercial district.

The site was originally developed as a gas and service station in the late 1960s and later added a store in lieu of service — Gulf and Go — but the facility ceased operations at some point, leaving a car wash, which was abandoned several years ago.

While vacant, the property has been used to provide 16 full-time off-site parking spaces for the nearby Ugly Grouper restaurant — a setup that will continue despite the site’s new use.

Chad Minor, the city’s director of development services, presented the proposed special exception, saying the site plan did not include any building additions or expansions, only additional landscaping along the property’s frontage.

He said the proposed use is consistent with the city comprehensive plan and compatible with C-3 commercial land uses.

City staff recommended approval of the special exception and site plan request with four conditions, including:

• The doors for the existing car wash bays must remain closed except when temporarily opened for the ingress or egress of vehicles, materials or equipment;

• The property must maintain 16 parking spaces marked with permanent signage for use by the Ugly Grouper;

• Outdoor storage “of any kind” is prohibited.

A sign notices a Sept. 25 public hearing where city commissioners approved a special exception for a site plan to convert the former carwash and service station at 5804 Marina Drive in Holmes Beach into a contractor’s office. Islander

• The cleaning, maintenance or repair of vehicles and equipment is prohibited on the premises.

Marquis owner Davyd Miller said he’s committed to revitalizing the property with new flooring, roofing, garage doors, windows and lighting.

Commissioner Steve Oelfke asked if the proposed use would negatively impact the residential character of the area, since the property partly abuts residential uses to the west.

Minor said staff did not find the use incompatible.

Commissioner Carol Soustek said the proposed change would result in the improvement of the “forlorn” property and voiced her support.

IslBizCal

THIS WEEK

Wednesday, Oct. 1

5-7 p.m. — Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce ribbon-cutting, Anna Maria Island Historical Society, 402 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Info: 941-778-1541, terri@amichamber.org.

Thursday, Oct. 2

8-9:30 a.m. — AMI Chamber breakfast meeting, Toasted Mango Cafe, 3240 E. Bay Drive, Holmes Beach. Fee applies. Info: 941-778-1541, terri@amichamber.org.

Wednesday, Oct. 8

11:30 a.m. — Manatee Chamber of Commerce Lunch, “Innovation in Weathering the Ebbs and Flows in the Market” with Elliott Falcione of the Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau, IMG Academy Golf Club, 4350 El Conquistador Parkway, Bradenton. Fee applies. Info: 941-748-3411, manateechamber.com.

SAVE THE DATES

• Oct. 9, 11:30 a.m., AMI Chamber luncheon, Anna Maria Oyster Bar at the Pier, Bradenton Beach.

• Oct. 11, 2-8 p.m., Bridge Street Merchants’ Get Down Sundown party, Bradenton Beach.

• Oct. 18, 10 a.m.-9 p.m., AMI Chamber Bayfest, Anna Maria. — Lisa Neff, calendar@islander.org.

Mayor Judy Titsworth expressed concern about the parking of contractor vehicles, like dump trucks and frontend loaders.

However, Miller said he did not plan to leave heavy equipment outside due to concerns about potential theft. He said equipment would be secured inside the car wash bays.

There was no public comment.

Commissioner Carol Whitmore moved to approve the special exception request and Soustek seconded the motion, which passed.

The city commission will meet next at 2 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 16, at city hall, 5801 Marina Drive.

ITEMS FOR SALE

WAtERROWER MARK Iv natural ash rowing machine with S4 monitor. Made in the USA. Like-new. $750 OBO. Holmes Beach. 941920-3921.

ICE CREAM MAKER: Cuisinart, like new, $50, grill, non-stick tabletop, green pan, like new, $90. 941-920-2494.

ANTIQUE PARTNER DESK: All wood, $500. Inquire at 941-778-7978.

FREEBIE ITEMS FOR SALE

Individuals may place one free ad with up to three items, each priced $100 or less, 15 words or less. FREE, one week, must be submitted online. Email classifieds@islander.org. (limited time offer).

TRANSPORTATION

GOLF CART RENTALS: Fun for residents and tourists! 941-213-5730. www.annamariacartrentals.com

BOATS & BOATING

HAvE A BOAt and wanna catch more fish, better bait or learn the water? 50-year local fisherman, your boat, my knowledge. captain chris, 941-896-2915.

SUNCOAST BOTTOM PAINTING: Professional bottom painting. Mobile. Call 941-704-9382.

CAPTAIN FOR HIRE and boat caretaker services: If you need help with your boat on or off the water, call Captain Dan. USCG, retired. 772-486-8085.

WELcOME ABOARD JOYFISH charters for private fishing, sunset cruises, and dolphin watching. check out joyfishcharters.com or follow us on Facebook. call to reserve, 941840-3181.

BOATS & BOATING Continued

21-FOOT CUDDY cabin: Great for fishing or pleasure. 225 Evinrude. $10,000, with trailer. 941-356-1456.

HELP WANTED

NOW HIRING: THE White Egret and The Egret’s Nest. We are seeking creative individuals to fill both part-time and full-time positions at our boutiques! Flexible days, but some weekend availability required. Please, inquire in person, drop off a resume or call 941-778-3782 for an interview appointment.

REPORTER WANTED: Full- to part-time. Print media, newspaper experience required. Apply via email with letter of interest to news@ islander.org

KIDS FOR HIRE

TECH HELP, TUTORING, custom projects: Tutoring (K-6) starts at $12/hour. Tech and projects vary by complexity. Serving Anna Maria Island. dominic.cusimano@gmail.com.

KIDS FOR HIRE ads are FREE for up to three weeks for Island youths under 16 looking for work. Ads must be placed by email, send to classifieds@islander.org.

SERVICES

IS YOUR HOME or office in need of some cleaning? Well, I’m your girl! Local, reliable, professional! Please, give me a call or text, 941-773 -0461.

CLEANING: VACATION, CONSTRUCTION, residential, commercial and windows. Licensed and insured. 941-756-4570.

PRESSURE WASHING, PAVER sealing, driveway, roof, fence, pool area. Also, window cleaning. Licensed and insured. 941-565-3931.

BICYCLE REPAIRS: Just4Fun at 5358 Gulf Drive can do most any bicycle repair at a reasonable cost. Pick-up and delivery available. 941-896-7884.

API’S DRYWALL REPAIR: I look forward to servicing your drywall repair needs. Call 941524-8067 to schedule an appointment.

P c OR t E c H issues? Not sure where to start? With years of experience, I’ll come to you with reliable solutions. contact Gavin at 928-587-1309. www.gse.codes

SARASOtA PAINtING: INtERIOR/exterior/ cabinets: call or text Don, 941-900-9398. Free estimates. Fully insured, twenty years’ experience.

RIDEEASY 247 YOUR professional, reliable and courteous car service to airports and events since 2015. You can reach us via text 941-447-7737 or email to mrfort5001@gmail. com We are available 24/7.

LOOK NO MORE! Residential, vacation rental and commercial cleaning. Give us a call, 941250-8548.

OUR SERVICES: CLEANING, home repairs, tile, concrete, remodeling, decks, steps, flooring, water drainage solutions, rental 24-hour services. Hurricane shutters and pre-storm service. New, low-cost generator and insulation (starts and runs on propane when power off). No permits needed. Islander, over 40 years here! Call 941-404-9163.

AIRPORt SHUttLE: QUALItY transportation, 10 years by Lewber. 352-339-3478.

SERVICES Continued

IS YOUR POOL deck, driveway, or garage floor looking worn out and dated? Bring them back to life with our top-tier resurfacing services! Services offered: Pool deck resurfacing, Slip-resistant, cool-to-the-touch finishes that enhance safety and aesthetics. Driveway resurfacing, durable surfaces that stand up to heavy traffic and harsh weather. Garage floor resurfacing, easy-to-clean, stain-resistant surfaces that look great and perform even better. Don’t wait! transform your spaces today with our trusted resurfacing services. contact us now for a free consultation and estimate. call U Plus Me LLc at 727-6235050 or visit u-plus-me.com

GO t DIRt Y WINDOWS? Free estimates/ insured. Five-star customer service rating. “We want to earn your business. Downeast Window cleaning, 207-852-6163.

LOOKING FOR SOMEONE who needs me: c lean, house-sit. I can cook, make sandwiches. I can do anything you can do but better! I can run to the grocery store for you. I can walk pets or go out to lunch with you. Looking for a part-time job caregiving companion, I am your right arm! I love people and I love helping others. I have references and I’m reliable and dependable. My name is Dena Gray a.k.a. Sparkles! 941-524-2234.

IN-HOME SUPPORT: 26-plus years’ experience. Tammy Roberts, 941-580-4440.

A c HAUFFER4U FOR t RANSPORtAt ION anywhere in Florida. Properly insured and over 40 years in Bradenton. Dennis, 941812-5930.

ONECALL CLEANUP. Junk removal, water damage, and more. Fast, reliable service. Call, 941-544-1260.

HOME WAtc HER: WHEN you can’t be at home, I’ll watch your home and send video of my inspection. I’m a State certified Residential Appraiser with background check. 317-997-4056.

AFFORDABLE PRESSURE WASHING and small job painting. 941-356-1456.

AMI AIRPORt SHUttLE Guy: We pick up from tampa, St. Petersburg and Sarasota airports. Up to seven passengers with luggage Reliable, Licensed and friendly transportation to and from Anna Maria Island. AMIShuttle. com. 941-500-3388.

CLEANING SERVICES: Ten-plus years’ experience. Professional, prompt with a flexible schedule. Contact Jessica, 941-900-8051.

HOUSE-SI tt ING ON Anna Maria Island. Responsible retired man available to care for your home and pets. I’ll provide peace of mind while you’re away. Excellent references. call or text, 570-439-2323.

LOCAL ISLAND PET sitter: Take care of your pet(s) including walks and playtime. 24/7. Call Dave, 513-967-0009.

BUSINESS-TO-BUSINESS JD’s Window Cleaning looking for storefront jobs in Holmes Beach. I make dirty windows sparkling

941-920-3840.

SERVICES Continued

BEACH SERVICE air conditioning, heat, refrigeration. Commercial and residential service, repair and/or replacement. Serving Manatee County and the Island since 1987. For dependable, honest and personalized service, call Bill Eller, 941-720-7411. Residential, call Nate, 941-524-2248. CAC184228.

CLEAN TECH MOBILE Detailing. At your location. Cars, boats, RVs. Call or text Billie for an appointment. 941-592-3482.

LAWN & GARDEN

CONNIE’S LANDSCAPING INC. Residential and commercial. Full-service lawn maintenance, landscaping, cleanups, hauling and more! Insured. 941-713-1965.

COLLINS LANDSCAPE LIGHTING: Outdoor lighting, landscaping, irrigation services and maintenance. 941-279-9947. MJC24373@ gmail.com

SHELL DELIvERED AND spread. Hauling all kinds of gravel, mulch, topsoil with free estimates. call Larry at 941-795-7775, or “shell phone” 941-720-0770.

HOME IMPROVEMENT

VAN-GO PAINTING residential/commercial, interior/exterior, pressure cleaning, wallpaper. Island references. Bill, 941-795-5100. www. vangopainting.net.

GRIFFIN’S HOME IMPRO v EMEN t S Inc. Handyman, fine woodwork, countertops, cabinets and wood flooring. Insured and licensed. 941-722-8792.

LANE’S SCREENING SERVICES: Replace your window, door or lanai screens. Many screen options available. Retired veteran serving our community! Free estimates, call 941705-5293.

LOOKING FOR ANY home improvement?

JRcc Home Improvement, handyman service can get the job done. Please, contact us at 413-246-2410. We would love to help.

TILE-TILE-TILE: All variations of ceramic tile supplied and installed. Quality workmanship, prompt, reliable, many Island references. Call Ashdown Flooring, 941-726-3077.

DONALD PERKINS PAIN t ING LL c . Interior/exterior/pressure washing. Island references. dperkinspaint@hotmail.com. 941705-7096.

GORILLA DRYWALL REPAIR LL c . Let’s solve your drywall problems together. Give us a call at 941-286-0607.

tEtI tILE: 40 years’ experience in Delaware, now on AMI and surrounds. t ile, marble, murals. Free estimates. call John teti, 302983-5774.

TRUE TONE PAINTING: Painting, power washing, epoxy floors. 941-224-4020.

CALL HYDRO CLEAN. Full-service pressure washing, sealing. Pavers, travertine and natural stone. Window washing too, up to three stories. Call Jacob, 941-920-2094.

ISLAND HANDYMAN: I live here, work here, value your referral. Refinish, paint. Just ask. JayPros. Licensed/insured. References. Call Jay, 941-962-2874.

Islander.

RENTALS

ANNA MARIA GULF beachfront vacation rentals. One- two- and three-bedroom units, all beachfront. www.amiparadise.com . 941-7783143.

AVAILABLE NOW AND season: 1BR/1BA, seven-night minimum. carlesvacationrentals. co m Special rates are available. 941-8071405.

PERICO ISLAND PATIO home: 3BR/2BA, privacy wall/gate, two-car garage, single floor, high ceilings, screened lanai. Call or text Alison, 859-771-6423.

2026 SEASONAL RENTAL: Just one block from the beach, Single-story 2BR/2BA private residence, screened patio. No smoking/no pets. December-April. 64th Street, Holmes Beach. Call 813-833-4926.

CENTRAL HOLMES BEACH, 3BR/2BA completely remodeled, walk to beach, school, trolley, shopping. Annual, $2,595/month. 941-7136743.

A v AILABLE NOW! ANNUAL rental. Beautiful, bright renovated condo 2BR/2BA, one floor. Perico Bay club, pool, hot tub, tennis, pickle ball, covered parking. $2,500/month. call 612-802-8357.

ANNUAL REN tALS AvAILABLE: Bradenton Beach, 2BR/1BA furnished cottage, $1,800/month, 2BR/2BA furnished home, $2,400/month. Off Island: Perico Isle, 3BR/2BA unfurnished pool home, $3,500/ month. Hidden Lake, 3BR/2BA furnished condo, $3,100/month. All require application, first, last and security. Wagner Realty, 941-778-2246.

SNOW BIRD SPECIAL: Discount for multiple months. 2BR/2BA, second floor condo in Holmes Beach. Pool, tennis/pickleball, inunit laundry, WiFi, screened lanai, covered parking. Available 2025/26 season beginning December 2025. Beautiful, bayside seating area. Pool/beach toys, bikes included. Call Jack, 312-835-2323 for more information/photos.

KEY ROYALE HOME: Beautifully landscaped annual rental. Unfurnished. Fresh interior and exterior with all new appliances. 3BR/2BA, two-car garage. Large pool with heater and chiller. Boat dock and lift on a large canal. $10,000/month. 941-713-1586.

2BR/1BA ANNUAL: 50 yards from beach. Newly renovated, new appliances. Pool. First, last, deposit. 941-726-6597.

AvAILABLE NOW: QUIEt beautiful, bright, sunny condo. 2BR/2BA, nicely furnished, second floor, washer/dryer, screened in lanai overlooking pond, carport, tennis, pools, hot tub, gym, very safe, security gate. Minutes from AMI beaches. $2,300/month, annual, $3,900/month, seasonal. c all 952-8184685.

HOLMES BEA c H WES t BAY c ove condo. Second floor, 2BR/2BA, large lanai with bay view and one block to Gulf beach. Pools, tennis, pickleball. December and January, $4,000/month. 941-778-8456. terryaposporos@gmail.com

2BR/2BA WEST BRADENTON. Available December, January, February, March. Inclusive, $3,000 or $2,750. Text 941-962-0971. Suzanne Wilson PA.

PLAcE cLASSIFIED ADS online by 11 a.m. mondays at ISLANDER.ORG

RENTALS Continued

2BR/2BA IN HOLMES Beach. Available October, November, April. Monthly, $3,400 plus tax and cleaning fee. 1-403-512-2350.

MADBEACH SEASONAL: Fully-furnished, second-floor, 2BR/2BA condo in Madeira Beach for rent Nov., Dec., Jan. April, May. Screened lanai, two pools, park amenities (pickleball included), view of the Intracoastal and short walk to Gulf beaches, restaurants, retail. No smoking. Email connieandlisa@gmail.com

REAL ESTATE

WINNIE M c HALE, REALt OR, 941-5046146. Dalton Wade Real Estate. You need an aggressive and experienced Realtor in today’s market! Selling island homes, Sarasota and Bradenton areas. Multi-milliondollar producer! “Selling Homes - Making Dreams come true.”

2BR/2BA c ONDO IN Mt. vernon for sale. Fully furnished, on lake with view of Sarasota Bay. clubhouse, pool, workout room, and hot tub. Minutes to beaches and shopping. Asking $370,000. c all Sharon, 941-7305645.

OPEN HOUSE: 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 4. Beautiful Gulffront condo. 5200 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. Noranne Hutcheson, Remax, 941-932-0738.