workers on the Anna maria city Pier are silhouetted by the march 9 sunrise. the week ending march 29, tampa Bay marine continued work to rebuild the walkway to the t-end. new slabs were laid to cap off and connect the bents poured between each pair of pilings to form a foundation for future decking. the walkway was destroyed in 2024, when the island was hit with hurricanes Helene and milton. islander Photo: courtesy Angie Blunt/bluntphotographic.com
By ryan Paice islander reporter
Anna Maria’s parking review continues.
But changes already have been made.
Mayor Mark Short said March 26 that the city eliminated some parking on North Shore Drive and Pine Avenue to improve safety.
He had announced two weeks beforehand that staff would review parking over spring break — when the municipality annually receives a large inflow of beachgoing traffic — to determine potential changes.
Short has likened the parking situation to the Wild West and he identified two stretches at a March
26 commission meeting that staff found “extremely unsafe” for motorists, bicyclists and pedestrians.
The first stretch is on North Shore Drive, south of Pine Avenue to Willow Avenue.
Short said North Shore is used as a cut-through street that has roadside parking on both sides. But the five-block stretch has no sidewalks, and pedestrians must either walk on lawns or in the street among vehicular traffic and bicyclists.
To provide more space for all that activity, the city eliminated parking on the north side of the roadway.
The second stretch is Pine Avenue from Tarpon
By ryan Paice islander reporter
A registration process may be in store for rental cabanas on Anna Maria shores.
City commissioners voted March 26 on a pair of ordinances regulating rental cabanas and other commercial activities.
City code previously prohibited all commercial activity on the beaches but the municipality did not enforce the rule.
However, concerns about the rise of cabana rental
services last year led to new regulations as commissioners in February adopted an ordinance establishing rules for the beach.
Most of the city’s shores are zoned for coastal conservation, but there are two stretches zoned for recreation/open space: Gulffront Park on the Gulf of Mexico and Bayfront Park at Tampa Bay.
The ordinance prohibits temporary shade structures, such as cabanas, from exceeding 169 square feet of ground coverage in total of 13 by 13 feet and 13
PleASe, See am Cabanas, PAge 5
By robert Anderson islander reporter
A north Longboat Key resident launched a petition opposing a proposed 78-foot-high bridge at Longboat Pass, arguing the design would alter the character of the community and create safety concerns for people.
Kellie Day, who owns a 1930s cottage in the village on Longboat Key’s north end, said the petition was created after learning a taller fixed-span bridge had returned as a favored option in the Florida Department of Transportation’s ongoing project development and environment study.
“A lot of us were under the impression that the 78-foot span was no longer on the table,” Day said in a March 24 interview. “Then we heard they backpedaled.”
The Longboat Pass drawbridge, built in 1957, connects Longboat Key to Bradenton Beach and is nearing 70 years old. The DOT is evaluating replacement options from North Shore Road on Longboat Key to the entrance at Manatee County’s Coquina Beach. Day’s petition is hosted on Change.org, under the heading, “Stop changes to Longboat Key Pass bridge,” with a goal of 1,000 signatures.
As of March 26, 136 people had signed.
In the petition, Day calls the bridge “an iconic part of our community” and argues a taller structure would be “totally out of scale,” pose challenges for pedestrians and cyclists and do little to ease congestion.
Similar concerns have been raised by Longboat
PleASe, See lbk bridge, PAge 2
As the sun rises Easter morning, as many as 2,000 worshippers are expected to gather on the sand for one of Anna Maria Island’s longest-running communal traditions.
The Kiwanis Club of Anna Maria Island will host its 61st annual Easter Sunrise Service at 6:30 a.m. Sunday, April 5, at Manatee Public Beach, 4000 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach.
Island clergy will lead the interdenominational service: the Rev. Lee Miller of the Episcopal Church of the Annunciation will deliver the sermon; a representative from St. Bernard Catholic Church will offer Scripture readings; the Rev. Dirk Rodgers of Roser Memorial Community Church will provide the invocation and benediction; and the Rev. Stephen King of Harvey Memorial Community Church will lead the offertory.
Morgan Bryant will provide musical accompaniment and, new this year, a bagpiper will play.
Offerings will be divided among island churches, the Kiwanis Club’s SCF Key Club Scholarship program and other community initiatives.
Trolley service begins at 6 a.m. and the Anna Maria Beach Cafe will open at 6:30 a.m.
Seating is not provided and attendees are encouraged to bring chairs or blankets.
Online donations and the service program are available at kiwanisami.com.
For more information, contact club secretary Sandy Haas-Martens at 941-778-1383.
— lisa neff
lbk bridge continued from PAge 1
Key officials and other residents.
The DOT study is looking at several alternatives, including a no-build option to rehabilitate the existing drawbridge, a low-level bascule bridge with about 23 feet of vertical clearance, a mid-level bascule bridge with about 36 feet of clearance and the high-level fixed span providing about 78 feet of clearance.
A bascule bridge opens for boat traffic, while a fixed span remains stationary and must be built high enough to allow vessels to pass beneath.
Preliminary engineering documents shared with the public most recently identified the 78-foot-high fixed span as the preferred alternative. The design would include two travel lanes, a 12-foot shared-use path and an 8-foot sidewalk.
Supporters of a high bridge cite lower maintenance costs and uninterrupted marine navigation, as well as improved traffic flow by eliminating bridge openings.
Day said opposition centers on safety, aesthetics and how the bridge would function for daily users.
“The argument isn’t that it doesn’t need to be replaced,” she said. “But the 78-foot span is not safe, it’s not in line with the landscape and it’s out of touch with how people use that bridge.”
In a letter to Gov. Ron DeSantis, Day wrote that a bridge “approximately the height of a seven-story building” would create steep inclines that could make travel difficult for pedestrians and cyclists and increase vehicle speeds near intersections.
She also argued the design would not resolve congestion, which she said is largely driven by traffic volume at Coquina Beach, and warned it would “permanently change” the character of the north end of Longboat Key.
David Turley, DOT project development engineer and lead for the study, said public input has been gathered through meetings and comment periods rather than a formal preference survey. An initial survey focused only on vessel heights from boat owners.
Turley said during a DOT public workshop, held
Pass Bridge march 25.
March 12 at Christ Church on Longboat Key, 124 comments were submitted, including 55 favoring a no-build option, 37 supporting a build alternative and 36 without a stated preference.
The DOT estimates the fixed-span option at about $137.8 million compared with $176 million to $183.8
am parking continued from PAge 1
Street to the empty lot next to the Anna Maria Island Historical Society Museum at 402 Pine Ave. that the city calls “the Boneyard.”
It has a sidewalk and narrow parking, with some residential properties on the north side and mostly commercial properties on the south side of Pine.
Short said that due to the way that parking along that stretch of Pine Avenue was set up, there is no clear line of sight for people navigating their driveways.
Beachgoers haul equipment march 26 on fern
Street in Anna maria, where there is roadside parking but no sidewalks. islander Photo: robert Anderson
million for bascule alternatives.
The agency plans to begin design this year, though construction funding has not been scheduled.
Day said the petition is intended to ensure residents are heard before a final decision is made.
“Once this is changed, it’s permanent,” she said.
To address that issue, the city eliminated six parking spaces on the residential side of the street, according to Short.
Short added that city staff would continue to monitor parking throughout the municipality, especially over the coming weeks, which are expected to be busy with visitors.
There was no public comment or commission discussion on the item.
By Joe Konyou islander reporter
After a contentious three-hour meeting March 24, the Anna Maria City Commission unanimously voted to require residents and visitors to obtain a free “Sunset Viewing Permit” before gathering at any beach access point 6-9 p.m., citing what officials called an “unsustainable burden” on the island’s western shoreline.
The measure, which passed with surprisingly little procedural drama, represents one of the most significant regulatory actions the commission has taken toward preserving the island’s natural amenities.
Commissioners echoed one another as they celebrated a mutual love for sunsets but lamented the overcrowded beaches. Several referred to the successful launch of a similar program at Santa Monica State Beach in California.
The permitting system, set to launch May 1 through the city’s website, will cap nightly sunset gatherings at 60 people per beach access point. Applicants will be asked to certify that they will not play amplified steel drum music, release sky lanterns or audibly gasp more than three times during sunset.
Enforcement will fall to a newly created coastal ambiance division in the code department.
The mayor had opposed the proposal until city staff confirmed the permitting could be accomplished with no new employees and a small budget.
The unit will be staffed by two part-time volunteers who will operate ATV patrols from a cabana at Bean Point.
The city estimates the program will cost about $4,200 to administer annually.
Residents at the meeting were divided.
Longtime islander Phil Flips, 71, said he supports any effort to reduce crowded beaches. “I’ve been watching sunsets for 20 years,” he said. “I don’t need 400 strangers doing it with me.”
Others were less enthusiastic.
Vacation rental owner Sandy Bottoms called the proposal “a bureaucratic sunblock” and vowed a challenge.
She plans to present a petition she says already has 60 signatures, including many from people who do not live on the island but feel strongly about their rights to access the beach.
“They’ll see what the day-trippers have to say about this,” she said.
The Manatee County Tourist Development Council had not issued a formal response, as of Islander press time, though a spokesman said the office was “monitoring the situation closely and with some concern.”
The city attorney clarified that the ordinance does not apply to sunrises, which she described as “adequately underattended.”
Moonrises, she added, are under separate review. The permit portal was expected to go live at midnight on April 1.
Happy April Fools’ Day from The Islander.
Pier project continues
A march 21 drone photo shows work underway on the Anna maria city Pier. tampa Bay marine is rebuilding the walkway, which was destroyed in 2024 by hurricanes Helene and milton. islander Photo: courtesy Jacob merrifield
By ryan Paice
islander reporter
Visibility improvements for a slate of Anna Maria intersections are in the works.
Planning and zoning board members March 19 continued their review of a sight triangle study that analyzed 30 intersections.
The board had requested city staff conduct the study to assess stop-controlled intersections with obstructions within sight triangles — a motorist’s line of sight on approaching an intersection. Sight triangles have a clear line of sight on approaching traffic and pedestrians.
The study found numerous intersections where there are visibility and other safety issues, as well as highlighted 30 intersections prioritized for improvements, including nine crossings with Gulf Drive, eight with North Shore Drive, five with South Bay Boulevard, four with North Bay Boulevard and three with Pine Avenue.
Roadway engineer Mark Gillette, of Tampa-based Element Engineering Group, led a presentation at the P&Z’s meeting in February, when the board decided
to revisit the study March 19.
The P&Z went through recommendations for the 30 prioritized intersections and largely agreed with their recommended improvements. Those vary by location, but include the addition of stop bars, crosswalks and signage, restriping roadway markings, lowering fences, clearing foliage and more.
P&Z members also added recommendations of their own.
By lisa neff islander editor
A golf event planned to open Senior PGA Championship week is drawing environmental scrutiny, with Suncoast Waterkeeper asking Manatee County to move the April 13 contest off AMI and away from Gulf waters.
About 150 participants, including 80 youths in a First Tee Sarasota/Manatee clinic, are expected to participate in the Golf Coast Drive contest set for Coquina Beach in Bradenton Beach. Manatee County manages the public beach.
The Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau announced the event in a news release, saying it will feature long-drive and closest-to-the-pin contests using “non-toxic, biodegradable” golf balls designed to break down in the environment.
The March 19 release included a quote from Manatee County Commission Chair Tal Siddique, who represents District 3, which includes Anna Maria Island. Siddique said, “Golf Coast Drive is a fun and inclusive way to celebrate championship golf while also highlighting the beach bliss of the Bradenton area. … We’re excited to welcome fans and visitors to experience our coastline in a whole new way.”
Responding to Islander inquiries, BACVB communications manager Keenan Singleton said the golf balls are certified as nontoxic and biodegradable, “meeting rigorous bioenvironmental testing standards.”
Singleton wrote in an email, “The main ingredient in the golf ball is recognized by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) as a ‘Safer
Choice Green Circle’ ingredient, which is the EPA’s highest safety rating for human health and the environment.”
He provided a link to a lab report on the golf balls, which was reviewed March 26 by Suncoast Waterkeeper executive director and waterkeeper Abbey Tyrna. Later that day, Tyrna asked that the event be relocated to a “traditional golf course or driving range, where the activity can be conducted safely and appropriately. This would allow participants to fully engage in the intended golf experience while eliminating risks to marine life and water quality and reinforcing responsible environmental practices.”
In a letter to Siddique, Tyrna said, “While the event promotion indicates that the golf balls used are biodegradable, the supporting test report suggests that up to 40% of the material may not fully break down.”
She also said, “Even within the stated 57-day degradation period, the fragmentation of these materials raises important questions about the potential for ingestion by marine life. Regardless of toxicity, indigestible materials can pose a serious risk to marine organisms, including the potential for internal blockages and starvation.”
Tyrna also said the event might “convey a conflicting message to participating youth. Introducing any non-natural materials into marine environments is, by definition, considered marine debris. … As a result, there is a risk that participants take away the wrong lesson about interactions with our coastal ecosystems.”
A motorist’s view south march 18 from the intersection of Pine Avenue at tarpon Street in Anna maria, where the city’s planning and zoning board continues to review a visibility study.
islander Photo: Bonner Joy
At the intersection of North Bay Avenue and Hibiscus Street/North Shore Drive, staff recommended adding stop signs and bars on North Bay Boulevard to calm traffic. However, the P&Z opposed that due to concern with stopping traffic on a busy road.
On the other hand, they agreed with staff’s recommendation for a four-way stop at the intersection of North Shore Drive and Palm Avenue.
P&Z member Don Buswell-Charkow said the crossing was often packed with parked vehicles and busy with pedestrians, so a four-way stop was necessary. “It’s a disaster waiting to happen,” he said.
Buswell-Charkow also pushed to add and/or restripe crosswalks at the intersections of Gulf Drive and Sycamore Avenue, Pine Avenue and North Shore Drive, as well as Pine Avenue and Tarpon Street.
P&Z Chair Jeff Rodencal said another issue with Pine Avenue and Tarpon Street is that Beach Bums, 427 Pine Ave., often parks vehicles within the sight triangle on the south side of Pine. He called for the city to work with the business to remove parking there.
Rodencal also called for the city to conduct a pedestrian traffic study.
After reviewing the prioritized intersections, Buswell-Charkow suggested adding flashing crossing signs for all Gulf Drive crosswalks. He said the city has a large number of pedestrians crossings Gulf to get to the beach, but many motorists are not familiar with state law, which requires them to yield to crossing pedestrians.
“I realize it’s an expense,” he said. “But we only need to kill one person for everybody to go, ‘Oh gee, wish we had done something different.’”
P&Z member David Johnson said the proposed number of flashing signs would impact quality of life and was “a step too far.”
The board agreed to have Gillette analyze BuswellCharkow’s recommendation.
City planner Ashley Austin said she would incorporate the P&Z’s recommendations into the study, distribute them to public works, code enforcement and the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office for feedback.
linear feet in any direction. It also permitted preordered “commercial rental areas” like rental cabanas in Gulffront Park, with several conditions.
That ordinance was set to take effect March 15, but commissioners had held a first reading to amend the newly adopted code before it was enacted.
Commissioners unanimously voted March 26 to amend the ordinance, adding language to clarify that commercial rental areas are “for purposes of renting temporary shade structures.”
They also unanimously voted to approve a first reading for an ordinance to establish an annual registration system for the commercial rental of beach equipment and the operation of organized “passive recreation activities,” like yoga.
Operators would be required to pay an annual fee, maintain insurance and provide a list of individuals and entities owning 25% or more of a business.
The proposed ordinance would allow the city to limit the number of operators permitted on the beaches and establish new regulations for shade structures on beach areas zoned for coastal conservation, which is mostly private property.
That includes limiting rental activities to people “in control” of upland property — such as owners or renters — adjacent to the coastal conservation zone.
City attorney Becky Vose said property controllers would not be permitted to allow others to rent temporary shade structures on beach adjacent to their properties.
On the small amount of public beach zoned for coastal conservation, no commercial activity would be allowed.
The proposed ordinance would also require operators to provide the city with written notice 18 hours before placing rentals in the coastal conservation zone.
The proposed consequences for violations of the new code are aimed at preventing repeat offenses.
If a special magistrate determines an operator has violated the code within 12 months of their first offense, they would be suspended for three months.
If a magistrate determines an operator has committed a third violation within the same 12 months of the first offense, or operated while suspended, they would be suspended for 24 months.
The proposed ordinance was met with pushback at the meeting.
Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring volunteers Chuck and Karen Anderson spoke in support of rental cabana companies.
They said they know companies who know how to avoid impacting sea turtle nesting.
Perry Heldreth, owner of cabana rental company My Beach Concierge, said requiring photo ID to prove control of a property in the coastal conservation zone could be an issue for potential renters, since that ID would become public record.
Kevin Crump, co-owner of CabanUp, another beach cabana rental company, said providing 18-hour written notice for rental activities was unrealistic.
By ryan Paice islander reporter
The Anna Maria Island Art League may have found a home at the Center of Anna Maria Island.
While AMIAL has not had a brick-and-mortar location for years, president Kowena Suckstorf told The Islander March 27 that it will host classes and events out of the center for the “foreseeable future.”
AMIAL was founded in 1989 by a small group of artists who operated an art center in Holmes Beach.
It sponsored Springfest, an annual art festival, for almost 40 years — but not this year. Suckstorf said the Art League put a pause on the festival, saying the island’s changing demographics were impacting its success.
“The balance between renters and homeowners has definitely changed,” she said, adding that people are not buying fine art to decorate rental homes. She said artists weren’t making any money at the show.
Nevertheless, AMIAL was determined to continue a feature of the festival: a Young at Art program that shows and awards art by Manatee County students.
While AMIAL was displaying this year’s Young at Art pieces at AMI businesses, without Springfest or a brick-and-mortar location it was unclear where a full exhibit could be set up. That is where the center, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria, comes in.
Suckstorf said AMIAL approached the center, which agreed to host the show.
“They were more than happy to allow us to display the students’ art there,” she said. “They said as long as we, the Art League, are not making any money, they aren’t going to charge us.”
Suckstorf said AMIAL also wanted to get back to offering classes to promote art and artists in the community, which the center also agreed to host free of charge.
AMIAL presented two classes for children at the center in March and its Young at Art exhibit will be Friday-Saturday, April 3-4, with awards at noon Saturday.
A Wabi Sabi class about “embracing imperfection, natural texture, simplicity and beauty in the unfinished” will be hosted at the center Thursday, April 9.
Suckstorf said AMIAL hopes to expand its partnership with the center with art classes during afterschool and summer camp programs.
Center executive director Christopher Culhane said he’s happy with the arrangement.
“In previous years the (Artists’ Guild of Anna Maria Island) used to do the same and we’re happy to have similar programming here at the center once again,” he wrote in a March 27 email. “The center could not provide classes such as these without these local artists.”
For more about AMIAL and the center go to islandartleague.org and centerami.org.
By robert Anderson islander reporter
Bradenton Beach officials are restructuring how the city manages its community redevelopment agency following the departure of its coordinator.
Former city attorney and CRA coordinator Ricinda Perry resigned in September 2025. At a March 18 meeting, the CRA board — city commissioners and the mayor — unanimously approved a new structure, designating the city clerk as CRA coordinator and the CRA chair as the point of contact.
City clerk Terri Sanclemente had sought clarification from city officials on the issue.
“I just want to make sure what your expectations are as to the CRA,” Sanclemente said. “I don’t feel that the executive director is a correct title.” She said the CRA is not part of her job description and raised con-
Mayor Mark Short said previous code restricted such activity, which the city could have enforced but instead tried to find an “amicable” middle ground.
“We took steps to try to work with all of you to allow you a place to conduct your business,” he said.
The city commission will meet next at 1 p.m. Thursday, April 9, at city hall, 10005 Gulf Drive.
cerns about expectations beyond her role as clerk.
Board members agreed the CRA does not need an executive director and removed that job title from the clerk’s role, defining the position as administrative.
“It comes to this group to identify what the projects are,” Bear said. “And then work with staff to see those projects implemented.”
The restructuring also is intended to bring the CRA into compliance with state rules.
Meanwhile, the CRA is seeking a consultant to assist with compliance and project development.
“The consultant, we don’t want them telling us what we’re doing,” said John Cosby, public works director and police chief.
“Staff will manage the project. That’s what got us into trouble with the previous director,” he said.
The board also approved compensation tied to staff taking on additional CRA duties. Sanclemente will receive $11,000 annually for new responsibilities. Cosby and treasurer Shayne Thompson, who will take on CRA-related project oversight and financial management, will each receive another $9,000 annually.
Before the increases, Sanclemente’s salary was $115,780, Thompson’s was $95,084 and Cosby’s was $157,475.
! Plan now for season!
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Improve your odds of success with Islander newspaper readers looking to shop and dine, seeking indoor and outdoor fun, and a place to stay for their next visit. Call or text 941-778-7978.
There’s news this week that comes to us as “a little hard to believe.”
It happens almost weekly. All year long.
Each night as I drift off to sleep, my mind is reviewing the events of the day, the days to come and, last, what we missed.
Did the bridge collapse? Has one of the cities finally enacted a toll to pass its borders? Will the county restore the long-overdue Manatee Beach pier — with a Ferris wheel? Will the gondola ride envisioned by one “light-headed” official come to pass?
Well, this week, you get a good sampling of what city offi cials, up and down the island, are doing to protect resources, assets, funding and the peaceful enjoyment of “home.”
And for this week, can you believe the city of Anna Maria has limited parking? The one commodity there just isn’t enough of on our 7-mile long island?
They’re also targeting intersections where visibility is limited, mostly by landscaping but also by parked vehicles. There goes a few more parking spaces.
When it comes to regulations, we think the worries about beach cabanas goes too far. The companies that rent cabanas to beachgoers obviously have found a niche. They provide a popular service.
How does a cabana with signage for one family take away another’s enjoyment of the beach?
And there’s hardly a line in the sand to delineate where cabanas can be used — or not. Next thing you know, there will be dividers marking the areas for cabanas — and no cabanas — on the beach.
No thank you, please.
This past week we learned that a county organization was planning to host an event that involves hitting golf balls into the Gulf of Mexico.
Hello, “Seinfeld”?
Don’t they recall the “Seinfeld” episode in which Cramer was shagging balls in the Atlantic, and George, hoping to impress a date, told a woman at the beach that he was a marine biologist. Later in the day, George was called on to save a whale in distress. Yes, George!
The problem? A golf ball in its spout.
Funny, yes.
But even biodegradable golf balls could pose digestion problems or worse for marinelife, like dolphins, sea turtles and others that live in the Gulf.
All in a week’s work. All very true.
Next up, permits to attend sunset! Only editor Lisa Neff could come up with that “fooler.”
Happy April Fools’ Day from all of us at The Islander.
— Bonner Joy
Here’s another brilliant marketing campaign from the Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau, something along the lines of having speedboat races in the Manatee River, where imperiled — and slowmoving — manatees live.
This time, they are really, actually, no kidding, asking people to hit golf balls into the Gulf of Mexico — or America, whatever.
“Biodegradable” golf balls, they emphasize.
Skimming online
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Explain that to marine animals that eat sea turtle eggs, which look like – what?
Oh yeah, golf balls.
How is that going to play in the digestive systems of unsuspecting animals?
wayne Ansell All others: info@islander.org
Who cares, as long as it’s a successful event?
And how are you going to undo the image that slicing a golf ball into the Gulf is OK?
Vacationers already do this because they learned it was “OK” while on cruise ships; a county-sponsored event just makes it even more “OK.”
Are island police ready to write tickets to people using non-biodegradable golf balls?
Seriously, folks, did anyone think this through?
Cindy Lane, Bradenton
Thank you for supporting my fundraiser and collections of cardboard rolls, dog treats and more.
Tangible donations went to Manatee County Animal Welfare and the money went to For The Love of Dogs MCAW, including $1,205 in cash, six bags of empty cardboard toilet paper and paper towel rolls, more than 50 pounds of dog treats, 25 bones and a lot of dog toys and food.
I want to say thank you to everyone in the Anna Maria Island community, along with all the visitors, who took the time to donate and help the dogs at our local shelter.
How far in advance do you plan a vacation? A. A year or more
B. Half a year
C. Several months
D. Month or less
To answer the poll, go to islander.org.
Last week’s poll ever fool anyone on April 1? I make an effort. 50% Always. 14% No, but I get fooled. 36%
The support was incredible.
I also want to thank the local businesses that let me place collection boxes in their stores. That made it so easy for people to drop things off and I truly couldn’t have done this without all of you.
This is exactly why I love living on AMI. It’s not just the island — it’s the people. Everyone shows up, helps out and supports one another, and that’s what makes this such a special place to call home.
It was really nice getting to meet the volunteers when I dropped everything off at Manatee County Animal Welfare in Palmetto. They put in so much time and care for these dogs. It really means a lot to see that kind of dedication firsthand.
It’s never too late to donate. To help shelter dogs, call 407- 383-3519.
Kim Bowersox, Anna Maria Island
A woman wraps smoked mullet in may 1974 at Art’s gourmet Smoked fish Shop in the cortez fishing village. the manatee county library System Archives identified the woman as “mrs. Brad Jacobsen.”
islander Photo: manatee county Public library System archives
… and serving an order of fries
the island drive-in was open in 1973 on gulf drive in Bradenton Beach on the north side of trader Jack’s restaurant at 10th Street north. later, the restaurant became the coconut Hut and then, in 1982, gulf drive cafe.
The Islander welcomes opinion letters. Send letters with name, address and phone number to news@ islander.org. Only the name and city are published. Letters are edited for space to no more than 250 words.
child
• The circus came to Anna Maria Island and set up three rings under the big top in Holmes Beach. The event raised money for the Anna Maria Island Community Center, now known as The Center of Anna Maria Island.
• The state was investigating the alleged illegal cutting of mangroves on city property near Coquina Moorings in Bradenton Beach. Pruning of mangroves is regulated by the state and requires a permit.
• Anna Maria commissioners, hearing concerns from the city attorney and opposition from the business community, halted an effort to limit the size and number of signs in commercial and residential districts.
• Members of the Bradenton Beach Scenic Highway Corridor Management Entity, overseeing scenic aspects of Gulf Drive in the city, voted not to merge with the Palma Sola Scenic Highway, which ended in Holmes Beach.
• Anna Maria Mayor Dan Murphy said the city’s short-term vacation rental ordinance was on track to go into effect on April Fools’ Day. The VRO limits the number of people per bed.
• The Anna Maria Commission held another first public hearing of the city’s residential-offi ce-retail district occupancy ordinance, which was expected to further change the character of Pine Avenue.
— lisa neff
The Islander is archived online by the University of Florida library at ufdc.ufl.edu.
centerstone Sexual Assault and trauma Services victim advocates olivia-grace miller, left, denni martel and leticia rodriguez, right, pose march 24 alongside Holmes Beach mayor Judy titsworth after she proclaimed April to be Sexual Assault Awareness month and April 8 as Sexual Assault Awareness day. the day will be observed with a no Voice unheard event at the 13th AV dream center, 922 24th St. e., Bradenton, to “break the silence on sexual assault.” islander Photos: courtesy Holmes Beach
traci Kearton of the gumbozilla food truck serves fried fish march 25 at the center, 103 23rd St. n., Bradenton Beach. islander Photos: robert Anderson
titsworth presents lifelink foundation representative Amy newman, right, with a proclamation march 24 naming April as donate life month, encouraging people to “consider giving life through organ donation.”
Fun ordered up at Annie Silver erin Butler, left, Bruce Butler, denise Butler and marcus
wait for their food while seated in newly placed Adirondack chairs march 25 at Annie Silver community center in Bradenton Beach. the fish fry was the last community dinner event for the 2026 season.
compiled by lisa neff, calendar@islander.org
ONGOING ON AMI
• April 3-4, Anna Maria Island Art League’s Young at Art celebration, awards at noon April 4, Center of Anna Maria Island, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria. Info: 941-778-1908.
• April 4-5, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Coquina Beach Spring Art and Craft show, Coquina Beach, 1300 Gulf Drive S., Bradenton Beach. Info: blueribbonevent.com.
• Most third Mondays, 1 p.m., Center of Anna Maria Island Book Club, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria. Info: 941-778-1908, centerami.org.
• Throughout April, Artists Guild Gallery exhibit by Susanna Spann, 5414 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Info: amiartistsguildgallery.com, 941-778-6694.
Friday, April 3
6-8 p.m. — Bradenton Music in the Park series with Glass Onion Beatles tribute band, Bradenton Riverwalk Pavilion, 452 Third Ave. W., Bradenton. Info: 941-301-8445.
ONGOING OFF AMI
• 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.
• Through April 12, “Ancestral Edge: Abstraction and Symbolism,” The Ringling, 5401 Bay Shore Road, Sarasota. Fee applies except Mondays. Info: 941-359-5700, ringling.org.
• Through April 17, Florida Suncoast Watercolor Society Annual Aqueous Exhibition and National Association of Women Artists Curated Exhibition, Herrig Center for the Arts, 888 Third Ave. W., Bradenton. Info: herrigcenter.org, 941-746-2862.
• Through April 19, Friday-Sunday, 10 a.m.-3 p.m., “Living History,” De Soto National Memorial, 8300 De Soto Memorial Highway, Bradenton. 941-792-0458.
• Through June, Florida Maritime Museum “Vacationing in Cortez” exhibit, the Bishop Museum of Science and Nature, 201 10th St. W., Bradenton. Fee applies. Info: 941-746-4131.
• Through Aug. 23, “In the Flesh: The Nude in Modern Japan,” The Ringling, 5401 Bay Shore Road, Sarasota. Fee applies except Mondays. Info: 941-359-5700, ringling.org.
SAVE THE DATES
• April 18, De Soto National Memorial’s Food Truck Saturdays, Bradenton.
& FAMILY
ONGOING ON AMI
• Most Fridays, 10 a.m., Forty Carrots, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Info: 941-778-6341, mymanatee. org.
• Most Tuesdays, 10 a.m., Family Storytime, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Info: 941-778-6341.
SAVE THE DATES
• April 10, Sidewalk Astronomy at the Bishop, Bradenton.
• April 24, Center Bingo Night, Anna Maria.
The Anna Maria Island Historical Society will hold its annual luncheon at noon Thursday, April 9, with a picnic in the park behind the museum it operates at 402 Pine Ave., Anna Maria.
Featured speakers will be Peggy Donaho and Ron Prouty, authors of “Miguel’s Bay,” who will discuss their book.
The Artists’ Guild of Anna Maria Island will feature work by watercolorist Susanna Spann in April.
The gallery, 5414 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, will hold an artist’s reception 5-7:30 p.m. Friday, April 10, in conjunction with its monthly Night Market.
Spann is celebrated for her technical mastery of textures and light, particularly her ability to capture the complex reflections within glass and organic forms, according to a news release.
She’s a former instructor at the Ringling College of Art and Design in Sarasota and the author of the instructional book “Painting Crystal and Flowers in Watercolor.”
For more information, visit amiartistsguildgallery. com or contact the gallery at 941-778-6694.
The Island Players are offering two $4,000 scholarships to graduating seniors in the Manatee County School District who demonstrate excellence in theater, music, dance or visual arts.
Applicants must complete an application, including an essay, letters of recommendation, transcript and proof of college or university acceptance.
The application deadline is April 18.
For more information, go to islandplayers.org/ scholarships.
• April 25, De Soto Grand Parade and Block Party, Bradenton.
CLUBS & COMMUNITY
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: amirotary.org.
SAVE THE DATES
• April 9, Anna Maria Island Historical Society luncheon, Anna Maria,
• April 11, Pace Center for Girls Lucky Ducky Race for Pace, Bradenton.
• April 11, Center of Anna Maria Island Beach Cleanup, Anna Maria.
• April 18, AME Gala, Anna Maria.
• April 22, Palma Sola Botanical Park Garden Workday, Bradenton.
ONGOING ON AMI
• Tuesdays, through April, 9 a.m.-2 p.m., Anna Maria Com-
compiled by lisa neff
The luncheon is complimentary for docents and bread bakers. Other attendees are asked to contribute $20.
Reservations are required by April 6 by calling 941-778-0492 or emailing amihs4315@gmail.com.
Susanna Spann’s work will be featured throughout April at the Artists’ guild gallery, 5414 marina drive, Holmes Beach. islander courtesy Photo
Blue Ribbon Events wraps up its 2025-26 season with a two-day Spring Art & Craft Show at Coquina Beach.
The show will be Saturday-Sunday, April 4-5, running daily 11 a.m.-5 p.m.
Shoppers can browse art, handmade crafts and unique gifts steps from the Gulf of Mexico at 1300 Gulf Drive S., Bradenton Beach.
For more information, visit blueribbonevent. com.
munity Farmers Market, Roser Memorial Community Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Info: 941- 778-1908.
• Tuesdays, through season, 10 a.m. until sellout, Anna Maria Island Historical Society Settler’s Bread sales, 402 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Info: amihs.org, 941-778-0492.
• Tuesdays and Thursdays, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Shepherd’s Closet Thrift Store at the Episcopal Church of the Annunciation, 4408 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. Info: 941-778-1638.
• Most Tuesdays and Thursdays, 9 a.m.-2 p.m., Saturdays, 9 a.m.-noon, Roser Guild Thrift Shop, 511 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Info: 941-778-0414.
• Most Mondays, Wednesdays, Saturdays, 9 a.m.-1 p.m., Longboat Island Chapel’s Lord’s Warehouse thrift store, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key. Info: 941-383-4738.
• 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
• April 10, Night Market in City Center, Holmes Beach.
• April 18, Herrig Center Snatch It Up, Bradenton.
SPORTS & FITNESS
OFF AMI
• Through Sept. 6, select dates, Bradenton Marauders baseball, LECOM Park, 1611 Ninth St. W., Bradenton. Fee applies. Info: 941747-3031.
SAVE THE DATES
• April 13, Golf Coast Drive at Coquina, Bradenton Beach.
• May 8, Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce Golf Tournament, Bradenton.
Realize Bradenton has officially released the schedule for its popular Music in the Park series, which kicks off Friday, April 3, on Bradenton’s Riverwalk.
The free, family-friendly concert series will run every Friday, 6-8 p.m. through May 22 in the park at 452 Third Ave. W.
The lineup includes April 3, Glass Onion; April 10, KJB Band; April 17, The Fulcos; April 24, Dr. Dave Band; May 1, Eric Von Band; May 8, Downsyde Up; May 15, Yesterdayze; May 22, Rye Road Band. For more information, go to realizebradenton.com or call 941-301-8445.
Manatee County residents can visit the Bishop Museum of Science and Nature for free on select weekends thanks to a grant from the Rotary Club of Bradenton.
The “Rotary Days” free weekends are June 13-14, Sept. 5-6, Dec. 5-6 and Jan. 9-10.
Visitors will have full access to the museum, including the Mosaic Backyard Universe, the Parker Manatee Rehabilitation Habitat and daily shows in the all-digital Planetarium.
The museum is at 201 10th St. W., Bradenton. For more information, call 941-746-4131.
look online at islander.org for mike Sales’ tips on who plays where this week.
Wednesday, April 1
6 p.m. — April Fools’ Night at the NEST, Robinson Preserve, 840 99th St. NW, Bradenton. Info: emily.laughlin@mymanatee.org, 941-748-4501, mymanatee.org.
Thursday, April 2
6 p.m. — Game Night at the NEST, Robinson Preserve, 840 99th St. NW, Bradenton. Info: coral.bass@mymanatee.org, 941748-4501, 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..
CALENDAR NOTES
MARK THE DATES
• April 1, April Fools’ Day.
• April 3, Good Friday.
• April 5, Easter.
• April 22, Earth Day.
• May 5, Cinco de Mayo.
• May 10, Mother’s Day.
fmm supervisor tori chasey, left, and Bishop ceo Andrew Sandall march 23 examine a display featuring charter captain Arnold “Soupy” davis. the display is part of “Vacationing in cortez: greetings from old florida,” an exhibit at the Bishop museum of Science and nature in Bradenton. islander
By robert Anderson islander reporter
A new exhibit at the Bishop Museum of Science and Nature is offering a look into Cortez’s past as an early Florida destination.
“Vacationing in Cortez: Greetings from Old Florida,” developed by the Florida Maritime Museum, opened in January and will run through June.
With the FMM closed after suffering damage during the 2024 storm season, officials there partnered to bring part of its collection to downtown Bradenton.
“We’ve had a really good relationship with the Bishop for years,” FMM supervisor Tori Chasey said. “They were great to invite us to come have something here because our building is closed right now.”
For Bishop CEO Andrew Sandall, the exhibit reflects a broader effort to connect local institutions and extend the story of Manatee’s past beyond a single museum.
“One of the things I’ve always talked about with museums is seeing them in the wider cultural context, where all the cultural partners in a community support each other,” Sandall said.
The exhibit traces how the historic fishing village became a destination in the early 20th century, highlighting charter fishing, early travel challenges and landmarks like the Albion Inn.
The inn, built in 1896 by the Bratton family and later purchased by A.M. “Joe” Guthrie, the inn’s oldest section, originally the Bratton Store, was preserved and relocated by the Cortez Village Historical Society. Today, it is part of the FMM in Cortez.
Displays also include materials from charter operations like the Admiral fleet and Capt. “Soupy” Davis’ Best Bet, along with personal letters and photographs. Davis, who piloted the Best Bet, died in September 2024 at 97.
One thank-you letter, encased in a display glass, ends with a handwritten note: “In case you have forgotten, I’m the man who boarded your boat with the walker,” a reminder of the personal touches that defined early charter fishing in Cortez.
“That really shows how accessible they made it,” Chasey said.
“It’s a story we’re telling through the lens of Cortez,” Chasey added.
The Bishop is at 201 10th St. W., Bradenton.
Bradenton Beach city commissioners March 19 approved plans for an Arbor Day tree-planting to replace vegetation lost during the 2024 hurricane season.
The commission also adopted a proclamation recognizing National Arbor Day on April 24.
Ingrid McClellan, who chairs the ScenicWAVES Committee, presented the plan.
McClellan said volunteers will plant trees at Katie Pierola Park, 2212 Gulf Drive N., including a sabal palm, a coconut palm and a seagrape, to frame beach access points and improve coastal resilience.
“We lost a lot of trees from the hurricanes in 2024,” McClellan said.
She said the new plantings will be placed upland, based on guidance from state forester Richard Larson and landscape architect Shawn Mayers, to improve their chances of survival in future storm events.
McClellan said ScenicWAVES raised about $1,000 to fund the tree purchases, with additional support from volunteers and partner organizations.
The project also includes installation of a wildlife education sign near a beach access by the trolley shelter, funded by Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring, as well as a sign funded by the Anna Maria Island Moose Lodge at the entrance to the beach the lodge at Bridge Street and Cortez Road.
— robert Anderson
Ridership on Manatee County Area Transit services has fluctuated in fiscal 2025-26.
The assessment is based on an MCAT report prepared for a Sarasota/Manatee Metropolitan Planning Organization that was set for March 30. The report is for October through February. By the numbers:
• Systemwide ridership, which includes fixed bus routes, as well as paratransit and island trolley services, reaches about 150,000 riders in peak months.
• Bus ridership in October was up over October in fiscal 2023-24 and October 2024-25, while ridership in November and December was similar to past years but down in January and February.
• On the island trolley, ridership exceeded 28,000 in October, 27,000 in November and December, 30,000 in January and 39,000 in February.
For the same months in 2024-25, trolley ridership was about 4,000 in October — the weeks after hurricanes Helene and Milton, 15,000 in November, 23,000 in December, 24,000 in January and 38,000 in
By robert Anderson and ryan Paice
Streetlife is based on incident reports from the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office, Bradenton Beach and Holmes Beach police department.
Anna Maria
No new reports.
Bradenton Beach
March 15, Drift Inn, 120 Bridge St., 1:07 a.m. theft. A Bradenton Beach police officer responded to a theft. According to the report, a bar patron allegedly stole an iPhone 13 belonging to an employee after it was left unattended on the counter. Surveillance footage showed an unknown person take the phone and leave the establishment. The suspect later returned and made a purchase using a credit card. The phone, could not be tracked. The Bradenton Beach Police Department is investigating.
The BBPD polices Bradenton Beach. Cortez
No new reports.
Holmes Beach
March 18, 600 block of Key Royale Drive, stolen property. An officer responded to a call and met with
news@islander.org
Trolley around AMI
Manatee County Area Transit’s island trolley operates most days 6 a.m.-10:45 p.m. between Coquina Beach in Bradenton Beach and the Anna Maria City Pier in Anna Maria.
Riders will find buses to the mainland at the Coquina and Manatee Public beach hubs.
There is no fare on the trolley or the mainland routes. For more, go to mymanatee.org/mcat.
February.
For 2023-24, trolley ridership was 35,000 in October, 34,000 in November, 34,000 in December, 41,000 in January and 51,000 in February.
• On the Gulf Islands Ferry that operates between Anna Maria Island and Bradenton, MCAT has recorded 61,000-plus passenger trips since January 2025.
• 26,899 ferry passenger trips were logged during calendar year 2024, its first year of service.
— lisa neff
a property owner who said an Adirondack chair was missing from a boat dock.
March 19, 7200 block of Palm Drive, leaving scene of crash involving property damage. An officer responded to reports of a hit-and-run traffic incident and found the crash location, but there were no vehicles. A suspect vehicle was located with the city’s license plate recognition system and an officer located the motorist in the 6800 block of Holmes Boulevard. A man was arrested and transported to Manatee Memorial Hospital in Bradenton. The man was then transported to the Manatee County jail.
March 19, 500 block of Key Royale Drive, harassment. A resident entered the HBPD to report that she and her husband were receiving harassing letters. She said the anonymous letters complained about their dog barking in their back yard. An officer advised that a report would be completed and to contact the HBPD if there are further similar incidents.
March 20, 100 block of 52nd Street, underage alcohol possession. The HBPD chief found a group of what appeared to be underaged people drinking alcohol. Two officers removed the group from the beach, issued citations and contacted their parents for pickup.
March 22, West Wind Shores, 101 67th St., trespass. Multiple officers responded to reports of a trespasser and found a couple in a spa. One of them told police that they were not staying at the resort.
Father-son travels
Jeff Sucec of Holmes Beach, right, and son Josh pause for a photo in february at machu Picchu in Peru with a copy of the islander in which Josh appeared 23 years ago. the father and son, who have ties to Holmes Beach for 26 years, brought the newspaper along on what Jeff Sucec called “a trip of a lifetime.” islander courtesy Photos
Jeff and Josh Sucec pose with a recent issue of the islander on espanola island in the galapagos islands, joined by a rare christmas marine iguana — found nowhere else on earth — at the bottom of the frame.
Holmes Beach police arrested Teddy Davis Jr., 35, of Bradenton, March 22 on third-degree felony charges of grand theft of a motor vehicle and possession of cocaine, a Schedule II controlled substance.
Davis also faces a second-degree misdemeanor charge of possession of prescription medication without a valid prescription.
Police stopped Davis after the city’s license plate reader flagged a vehicle reported stolen. During a search, officers found cocaine in the driver’s side door, marijuana in the back seat and a bottle of Hydroxyzine prescribed to someone else, according to a report.
Davis was held at the Manatee County jail until his release March 25 after posting $5,150 bond.
An arraignment is set for May 7 at the Manatee County Judicial Center in Bradenton.
— ryan Paice
By lisa neff
State Road 64/Anna Maria Island Bridge: A water main project is underway along Manatee Avenue and on the bridge, requiring temporary lane closures. Also, work will require the closure of the Kingfish Boat Ramp 7 a.m. April 16-7 a.m. April 18. Info: amiprojects.io, 941-306-4660, info@amiprojects.io.
Gulf Drive/55th Street/56th Street : Holmes Beach’s Gulf Drive Sea Level Rise Mitigation Project continues, with periodic lane closures in the area of 55th Street and 56th Street, from Gulf Drive to Marina Drive. Info: 941-708-5768, mgorman@holmesbeachfl. org.
Gulf Drive/State Road 789: The Florida Department of Transportation is milling and resurfacing Gulf Drive from Coquina Beach in Bradenton Beach to State Road 64/Manatee Avenue in Holmes Beach through May 1. Motorists can expect single-lane closures overnight. Info: swflroads.com/project/451021-1.
Cortez Bridge: Construction activities are ongoing on the south side of Cortez Road West east of the bridge. Pipe installation work is expected to continue into the spring. Info: 941-306-4660, info@amiprojects. io, amiprojects.io.
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. Motorists can expect delays. Info: mymanatee.org/75th.
Did you know? Cameras across Manatee County show traffic conditions at smarttrafficinfo.org.
— lisa neff
By robert Anderson islander reporter
A Virginia man was being held without bond, accused of molesting a child during a vacation in Bradenton Beach.
Harold Marinus, 65, of North Tazewell, Virginia, is charged with lewd or lascivious molestation of a child younger than 12, a felony that if convicted could result in a life prison sentence, according to records from the Bradenton Beach Police Department and Manatee County Clerk of the Circuit Court.
Records say the alleged incident occurred June 28, 2025, in the 100 block of 12th Street South in Bradenton Beach.
Marinus allegedly made inappropriate physical contact with a juvenile while families were vacationing
on AMI. The allegations were detailed during a forensic interview at a child advocacy center.
After investigating, BBPD Lt. Lenard Diaz filed a capias request with the state attorney’s office, which led to Marinus’ arrest in October 2025.
Court records show he was being held without bond as of March 27. Following a Feb. 13 pretrial detention hearing, 12th Judicial Circuit Judge Frederick P. Mercurio ordered Marinus held in custody as the case proceeds. If convicted, Marinus could face life in prison and would have to register as a sex offender.
His attorney entered a plea of not guilty, waived arraignment and requested a jury trial, according to court filings. An arraignment was March 27 at the Manatee County Judicial Center in Bradenton.
Law enforcement alleges that similar conduct may have occurred on a separate occasion outside the Bradenton Beach area.
By capt. danny Stasny islander reporter
Springtime fishing is kicking off for anglers on Anna Maria Island.
The highlight this past week was the arrival of kingfish, which can be found up and down the coast due west of Anna Maria.
Stasny
capt. connor Keston of Anna maria Boat co. fishing charters shows off a hefty example of a kingfish he caught march 24. the fish exceeded 40 pounds.
Kingfish, the largest species in the mackerel family, cause great excitement because they are one of the fiercest mackerels out there, attracting anglers in our area to get out on the water to experience the thrill.
If you’ve ever caught kingfish, you know the power and aggressive nature of the migratory fish makes for a long-remembered catch by both amateur and seasoned anglers.
Kings can be spotted skyrocketing to heights of 10 feet in the air as they swim full speed and break the surface when striking a bait. They get so high in the air that there’s enough hang time to get a good look at them, especially when they’re close to the boat. In some instances, you can even make eye contact with the fish as it soars, shaking as if it’s still swimming.
Once on the hook, be prepared for some recordbreaking runs because kings are known for dumping vast amounts of line off the reel. The angler can be helpless to do anything but hang on and enjoy the ride.
As for table fare, kingfish are not high on the list, but the excitement of witnessing them and catching them makes up for the lack of flavor.
Preferred cooking method — in fact, the only cooking method I like for them — is smoking. Smoked kingfish dip on a cracker can be addictive if you’re willing to go through the process of brining, air-drying and smoking the meat, which is used to make a dip with cream cheese, mayo and spices.
Add some cold beers on a warm spring evening and you’ll feel the true satisfaction of the process. Your neighbors will, too, because there will be plenty to share.
Kingfish can be caught a variety of ways, including free-lining bait, slow-trolling bait and even artificials like spoons and diving plugs — which opens up the door to many anglers as long as they know where to find the fish.
Remember, kingfish regulations are as follows: you can keep two fi sh per day per angler and they must measure 24 inches to the fork of the tail. Only keep what you think you need, as again, they’re suited for fish dip and that’s about it.
On my own Just Reel charters, I am seeing the backwater bite finally starting to get good. Water temps in the low to mid- 70s are really getting species like snook, redfish and trout fired up and eager to eat.
Fishing deeper grass flats is yielding a variety of species, including spotted seatrout, ladyfish, bluefish and some large Spanish mackerel. Despite all the macks, bluefish and ladyfish, I am putting limits of trout in the box for anglers looking to have a fish dinner.
After getting worn out on this bite, I’m moving to the shallow flats of Tampa Bay to target snook and redfish. Both are being caught frequently with snook being more apparent. Some large spotted seatrout are mixed in with the shallow-water bite, with some exceeding 24 inches.
Capt. Johnny Mattay of Anna Maria Charters says he’s finding a good bite on his runs offshore in the Gulf. Using live pinfish as bait in depths over 100 feet is resulting in some exceptional red grouper action. Many fish being reeled up on Mattay’s charters are in the 30-plus inch range, well suited for even the heaviest grouper rods. Limits of fish are being found on most days, as well as some large mangrove snapper.
The larger mangrove snapper, some 27 inches, are taking pinfish as bait. If you know about mangrove snapper, you know a 27-incher is a force to be reckoned with as they are some of the toughest fish on the reef.
Amberjack, another tackle-buster, are present while offshore fishing and are being caught on live pinfish and live shiners as bait. In slightly shallower waters in the 60- to 80-foot range, Mattay is finding action on kingfish, as well as an occasional sailfish.
Although sailfish are caught in our waters, they are not frequent. So hooking into one is quite a treat.
Moving inshore, Mattay is chasing schools of redfish on the shallow flats, resulting in catches for his clients of fish up to 30 inches. Afterward he’s putting anglers on snook along the mangroves and trout on the deeper flats.
Capt. David White is happy to see springtime fishing is settling in. He says kingfish and Spanish mackerel are keeping his anglers busy in the Gulf. Free-lined shiners on a wire rig is leading to some drag-screaming action as the kingfish are stripping line off the reels and clients are hanging on for their lives.
On lighter tackle, Spanish mackerel are following suit, providing some excellent action. White says most kings being caught are 10-15 pounds, with larger examples mixed in.
Moving onto the flats, White is finding good action for clients on snook and redfish. Both are being caught along mangrove shorelines where lush grass flats exist. Free-lined live shiners are working as bait. Targeting spotted seatrout on the deeper flats also is going well with limits of fish caught on most days.
Send high-resolution photos and fishing reports to fish@islander.org.
George O’Connor, 76, a cherished member of his community, died March 22.
o’connor
He was born March 2, 1950, in Buffalo, New York. As a young man, he’d had enough of the cold, so he relocated and spent most of his adult life on Anna Maria Island.
Mr. O’Connor graduated from Bishop Neuman High School in Buffalo and then headed to Dean Junior College in Massachusetts. However, his college career was short-lived and he enrolled in the U.S. Marine Reserves. His professional journey was in sales, where his charismatic personality shone brightly.
His dedication to his community was unwavering, as evidenced by his tenure as past chairman of the Anna Maria Island Community Center Board and his recognition as the City of Anna Maria Citizen of the Year in 1991.
His passion for mentoring youth was evident in his time spent as a Little League coach, and he left a lasting impression on the community as the cofounder with his late twin brother Billy of the O’Connor Bowling Challenge. He was McKechnie Club president for many years along with being a season ticket holder with the Pittsburgh Pirates.
He also was an active member of the Manatee Chamber of Commerce, where he demonstrated his commitment to local business and economic growth.
An avid sportsman, his interests included golf, hunting and fishing, from which he forged countless friendships and shared countless laughs. Those who knew him would describe him as loving, funny and friendly — a man whose presence could light up any room and whose humor brought joy to every occasion.
He was a true friend and beloved community leader who will be deeply missed but never forgotten.
The O’Connor family wishes to express appreciation to Tidewell Hospice for its support and kindness in George’s end-journey.
Mr. O’Connor leaves behind a legacy of love and joy.
There will be a memorial service at Christ Episcopal Church, 4030 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton, at 1 p.m. Saturday, April 11. Memorial donations may be made to Tidewell Hospice or the Center of Anna Maria Island.
Mr. O’Connor is survived by his beloved wife, Susan; their son Michael and his wife Katie; grandsons Caleb and Quinton; brother David and wife Mary, nephews David and Billy; and sister-in-law, Sharon.
Ann Snider Schluederberg, ScD, of Holmes Beach, a devoted mother, distinguished immunologist, accomplished musician, passionate sailor and gifted artist, died at Tidewell Hospice House in Bradenton.
She was born in Detroit on May 31, 1929, to Carle J. Snider and Vera P. Allport.
She was raised in Ohio, where she graduated from
Circleville High School. She earned her bachelor’s degree in biomedical sciences at Ohio State University, where she was in the Delta Gamma sorority. She then pursued a doctorate in virology at Johns Hopkins University, where she began publishing research on viral immunology and host immune responses. Her scientific career spanned several of the nation’s leading research institutions. At Johns Hopkins, University of Maryland and then Yale University, she conducted pioneering research on rubella and measles viruses, contributing to early vaccine development and expanding global understanding of these infectious diseases. She authored scientific publications that helped shape the fields of virology and immunology during a pivotal time in vaccine science.
Dr. Schluederberg later joined the National Institutes of Health, where she became chief of the virology branch, overseeing major research, particularly in the area of chronic fatigue syndrome research, and providing national leadership in the field of virology.
She also was a lifelong lover of music and the arts. A talented pianist and violinist, she was a founding member of the Columbia Orchestra in Howard County, Maryland, where she also was a member of the Baltimore Watercolor Society.
Along with her husband, Richard F., she shared a love for sailing and the outdoors. They were lifelong members of the Gibson Island Yacht Squadron, as well as the Chesapeake Bay Star fleet.
Summers were filled with sailing adventures in Connecticut, where she enjoyed racing with family at the Noroton Yacht Club on Long Island Sound.
In the winter, the couple turned to ice dancing, mastering routines and sharing many hours on the ice.
After retirement, they moved to Holmes Beach, where Mrs. Schluederberg continued to embrace her passion for the arts as a watercolor and digital artist.
By lisa neff
Local churches have announced their Easter Sunday and Holy Week observances.
In Anna Maria, Roser Church will hold observances at 7 p.m. Maundy Thursday, April 2, and noon Good Friday, April 3. Roser’s services on Easter, April 5, will be in the sanctuary at 8:30 a.m. and on the outdoor stage at 10 a.m. The church is at 512 Pine Ave. For more information, call 941-778-0414.
Harvey Memorial Community Church, 300 Church Ave., Bradenton Beach, will hold an Easter Sunday service at 9:15 a.m. For more, call 941-779-1912.
The Episcopal Church of the Annunciation, 4408 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, will observe Maundy Thursday at 5 p.m., Good Friday at 5 p.m. Easter Sunday there is worship at 8 a.m. and 10:15 a.m. CrossPointe Fellowship, 8605 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, will observe Good Friday at 7 p.m. and Easter at 9 a.m. For more, call 941-778-0719.
On LBK, Christ Church of Longboat Key will observe Maundy Thursday at 6 p.m., Good Friday
at 7:30 p.m. and Easter at 10 a.m. The church is at 6400 Gulf of Mexico Drive. For more, call 941-3838833.
The Longboat Island Chapel will observe Good Friday at 6 p.m. and there will be two Easter Sunday services — one at 7 a.m. in the garden and one at 10 a.m. with an orchestra in the sanctuary.
The chapel is at 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive. For more, call 941-383-6491.
By robert Anderson islander reporter
The Anna Maria Island Privateers are searching for a permanent home base to support their nonprofit mission and preserve their signature pirate ship, the Skullywag.
Privateers vice president Mary Ann “Maz” Zyla said March 19 that the organization has never had a long-term headquarters, despite being founded in 1971. Over the years, the group has relocated multiple times, most recently storing its ship and equipment at a Bradenton site near LECOM Park after hurricanes prompted a move inland.
“We’ve been lots of different places,” Zyla said. “It’s always outside and that’s not really good.”
obituaries continued from PAge 12
Her artwork and photography were featured in local studios and galleries. She also played violin with the Anna Maria Island Community Orchestra.
She will be remembered for her devotion to family, her scientific vision and leadership, her artistic and musical talents and an adventurous spirit that touched many lives.
She is survived by her children, Suzanne and husband John Lesko, Rick, Jeff and wife Susan, Peter and wife Jacqueline, and Scott and wife Holly; seven grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren.
The Skullywag, a roughly 50-foot-long, 20-foottall pirate ship on wheels, is central to the Privateers’ identity, appearing in parades and community events across the region. Maintaining and insuring the vessel — a converted school bus — represents the group’s largest annual expense.
Additional equipment, including a 20-foot Santa sleigh and a smaller replica vessel, is stored separately, adding to logistical challenges and costs.
Zyla said the group is pursuing options for a “brick-and-mortar” location that could house its fleet, provide meeting space and serve as a hub for community events.
“We could have our meetings there, hold events for the community and keep what few assets we have safe,” she said.
The nonprofit has begun setting aside grant funding and is exploring partnerships, donations and lease agreements to secure a suitable building. Any location would need to accommodate the ship’s size, limiting available options, particularly on Anna Maria Island.
“There’s really no room on the island for us right
now,” Zyla said. “But this is our home port and we want to stay as close as we can.”
Founded as a small social club, the Privateers evolved in the 1970s into a community-focused nonprofit with a mission centered on “kids and community.” The group has awarded thousands of dollars in scholarships over the years and continues to support youth programs and charitable efforts, though funding has fluctuated.
Zyla said a permanent base could help reintroduce the organization to newer residents and expand outreach.
“A lot of people see the pirates and the ship, but they don’t always realize how much we do for the community,” she said.
In addition to seeking a facility, the Privateers also are looking to grow membership and recruit volunteers to sustain operations.
“We want to get back into the community,” Zyla said. “Having a home would help us do that.”
For more information, email amiprivateers@ yahoo.com.
By Kevin P. Cassidy islander reporter
A champion was crowned March 27 in the adult flag football league at the Center of Anna Maria Island, where Reel Coastal Properties cruised to a 52-19 victory over Fish Guy Aquarium Services behind a huge game from quarterback Chase Richardson. Richardson threw seven touchdown passes and ran for another to lead Reel Coastal Properties, which also received two touchdown receptions each from Julian Bejarano, Evelyn Long and Connor Ludwig, who also added three extra-point catches. Corey Jacques completed the scoring with a TD reception.
Jacci Allen and Christian Hampton both had a TD pass and a TD reception to lead Fish Guy, which also received a TD pass from Jeremy Cruz Rodriguez and a TD catch from Chris Johnson in the loss.
Reel Coastal Properties advanced to the championship game with a 54-37 victory over Edible Cookie Dough Cafe, while the Fish Guy advanced March 26 by edging Salty Printing 26-25 in semifinal action.
Thirteen women began the annual Key Royale Club ninehole handicap match-play tournament in late February and a winner was decided in the final match March 26. The match between Andi Saia and Lori Waggoner was all square after eight holes, but Waggoner got the best of Saia on the ninth and final hole, taking the 2026 KRC Champion title.
The men played their weekly modified Stablefordsystem match March 23, with play highlighted by a hole-in-one by David Desrosiers. The ace helped Desrosiers to finish in a tie for first with Earl Ritchie on matching scores of plus-6. Rod Hammonds was alone in second at plus-4.
The women played a nine-hole individual-lownet match March 24 in two flights. Mary Wilkie fired a 3-under-par 29 to earn a three-shot victory over six players at even par 32 in Flight A.
Marty Clark and Beth Lindeman both carded 6-under-par 26s to finish in a tie for first in Flight B. Second place went to Annette Hall on a 2-under-par 30.
Rene Chapman had a chip-in birdie on the sixth hole, while Jenny Huibers birdied the first hole.
Horseshoe news
The AMI Pitchers held its 13th annual Ron Pepka Memorial Horseshoe tournament March 28 to once again honor the longtime leader of the group.
In the double-elimination tournament, third went to Bob Hawks and Bo LaMura after a 23-10 loss to Billy Silver and Bill Galbally, who advanced to the finals.
Silver-Galbally then defeated Steve Doyle and Tom Skoloda, giving each team one loss and setting up a winner-take-all match. Doyle-Skoloda rebounded to defeat Silver-Galbally 24-7 and take first.
Play gets underway 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 all are welcome.
Adult soccer playoff
Playoff action in the 35-plus soccer league at the community center got started March 25 with a play-in game between No. 4 seed Language Services Associates and No. 5 Emily Moss Designs with the winner advancing to the semifinals.
Moss Designs cruised to a 6-2 victory behind three goals and an assist from Matt Darak and a goal and two assists from Danny Anderson. Chris Culhane and Nicole Darak also scored for Moss, which received four saves from Brian Leibfried in the victory.
Steve Oelfke had a goal and seven saves to lead Language Services Associates, which also received a goal from Murat Akay in the loss.
David Desrosiers celebrates his first hole-in-one during a March 23 match at the Key royale Club. Playing the 128-yard eighth hole, Desrosiers hit a towering 9-iron that landed on the green and rolled into the hole. islander
Photo: Courtesy KrC
Steve Doyle and Tom Skoloda pose March 28 on winning the 13th annual ron Pepka Memorial Horseshoe tournament at the Anna Maria City Hall pits. islander Photo: Courtesy AMi Pitchers
The first semifinal match saw No. 2 Bubble Binz roll past MG Construction 7-1 behind two goals each from Eric Pullen and David Kesten. Nicola Angelicola, Jennifer Autry and John Shanks each scored a goal, while Nate Welch helped preserve the Bubble Binz victory with nine saves.
Amy Taylor notched the lone goal for MG Construction, which also received seven saves from Mark Long in the loss.
The second semifinal match saw Hogan’s Pool Service & Repair and Emily Moss Designs battle to a 2-2 in regulation, sending the match to a penalty-kick shootout that went 10 rounds to determine a winner.
Damir Glavan and Ryan Hogan each made penalty kicks while Jonathan Stern made two spot kicks to give Hogan’s Pool Service a 4-3 victory.
Danny Anderson made two spot kicks and Ryan Moss made one for Moss Designs in the loss.
The championship match between Hogan’s Pool Service and Bubble Binz is set for 7 p.m. Wednesday, April 1.
The Bradenton Marauders’ 16th season at LECOM Park will begin with a home opener Tuesday, April 7, against the Palm Beach Cardinals. Opening weekend festivities include a replica Bradenton Script jersey giveaway to the first 750 fans at the ballpark Friday, April 10, and a postgame drone show Saturday, April 11.
Throughout the season, fans can enjoy recurring promotions, including Bark in the Park on select Fridays, Thirsty Thursday specials presented by Budweiser and Ticket Sarasota and three Copa de la Diversión games where the team will rebrand as the Bradenton Barbanegras.
Season tickets are available for $495.
LECOM is at 1611 Ninth St. W., Bradenton.
For more information about the Marauders, call 941-747-3031 or visit bradentonmarauders.com.
— lisa Neff
By Lisa Neff
Predicting and preparing
Hurricane season is still two months away. The forecasts are already here.
The earliest signals for the Atlantic hurricane season are coming into focus and they carry a familiar but often misunderstood message for Gulf coast residents: “average” does not mean safe.
AccuWeather’s initial outlook calls for 11-16 named storms, including four to seven hurricanes and two to four major hurricanes. That’s near or slightly below historical norms.
Forecasters expect three to five direct U.S. impacts.
“It’s very important that everybody from South Texas all the way to Maine prepares equally for each and every hurricane season, regardless of what the official forecast is,” AccuWeather lead hurricane expert Alex DaSilva said in a news release.
The primary driver this year is a developing El Niño, a warming of Pacific equatorial waters that typically increases wind shear over the Atlantic and disrupts storm formation.
In theory, that should suppress activity, especially later in the season. In practice, it’s not that simple.
Atlantic waters remain unusually warm, including deeper ocean layers that act as fuel for rapid intensification.
That combination — fewer storms overall but a higher ceiling for strength — has become a defining pattern in recent years.
Against that backdrop, federal forecasters are refining how risk is communicated.
The National Hurricane Center is rolling out a series of updates for 2026 aimed at improving public understanding and response. Central among them is a redesigned forecast cone graphic — arguably the most recognizable hurricane visualization.
“These improvements empower communities to prepare earlier and more effectively for dangerous hazards from tropical storms and hurricanes,” NHC director Michael Brennan said in a news release.
The updated cone will clearly display tropical storm and hurricane watches and warnings extending inland, not just along the coast. That shift reflects a persistent problem: inland communities often underestimate wind risk, even though weakening storms can still produce damaging gusts far from landfall.
An experimental version of the cone also will debut, replacing the traditional circular uncertainty area with elongated ellipses. This change is designed to better represent forecast uncertainty in track and
The Florida Department of Environmental Protection has reached a milestone in the Florida Seafl oor Mapping Initiative, completing all airborne LiDAR data collection and receiving the majority of vessel-based sonar data.
The initiative has mapped more than 14 times the area previously documented, covering over 75,500 square kilometers via LiDAR and 64,000 square kilometers via sonar.
“Understanding the features that shape our coast helps us make smart decisions about protecting communities and strengthening resilience,” DEP Secretary Alexis A. Lambert said in a news release.
The high-resolution data generated from the mapping supports coastal management, including storm-surge modeling and identifying offshore sand for beach nourishment.
Also, early analysis has revealed scientific discoveries, such as ancient shorelines, buried river channels and previously unknown “mesophotic” coral reefs — ecosystems that thrive in deep, low-light environments.
The DEP is collaborating with federal agencies to create a seamless “upland-to-ocean” elevation model, according to the news release. This mapping is expected to be publicly available in the fall.
— lisa Neff
The Southwest Florida Water Management District has declared an extreme water shortage due to ongoing drought conditions throughout the region, which requires all residents to follow one-day-per-week watering restrictions with stricter watering hours.
Watering hours are reduced to 2:01 a.m.-4 a.m. or 8 p.m.-11:59 p.m. and properties less than an acre in size may only use one of these windows.
The restrictions apply from April 3-July 1.
Swiftmud received below average rainfall during its summer rainy season and currently has a 13.7inch regional rainfall deficit compared to the average 12-month total.
In addition, water levels in the district’s water resources, such as aquifers, rivers and lakes, are continuing to decline and many are severely abnormal. Moreover, public water supplies are extremely low for this time of year.
Outdoor water use accounts for more than 50% of
speed, capturing a wider range — 90% of possible paths, up from the longstanding 67%.
The goal is precision, but also clarity. The cone has long been misinterpreted as showing storm size or impact area rather than the probable path of the center. By refining the graphic and adding more context, forecasters are trying to close that gap.
Taken together, the early 2026 outlook and the National Hurricane Center’s updates point to a consistent theme: risk is not diminishing, but the tools to understand it are improving.
water consumed by households and residents should know and follow their local watering restrictions, as well as conserve water wherever possible.
Below is the standard outdoor watering schedule.
If an address ends in 0 or 1, water on Monday; 2 or 3 on Tuesday; 4 or 5 on Wednesday, 6 or 7 on Thursday; 8 or 9 on Friday.
Low-volume watering of plants and shrubs is allowed any day but is limited to before 8 a.m. or after 6 p.m.
Other restrictions: Car washing at home is only allowed on the lawn watering day, fountains are limited to four hours a day and restaurants are required to only serve water upon request.
The order also places restrictions on local utilities.
— lisa Neff
Lox Bagel Platter garden-ripe tomatoes, capers, red onion and fresh lox with cream cheese, made to order on your choice of bagel! Yummmmm.
A fast casual restaurant is set to join the Anna Maria Island dining scene this fall.
And it’s coming to a much-watched spot on Marina Drive in Holmes Beach.
Crust & Q, a 150-seat eatery combining specialty stone pizza and Kansas City BBQ, will open at 5910 Marina Drive, according to a news release.
The concept comes from two established island restaurateurs — Christofer Dale of The Feast and Ryan Fuger of Locals BBQ.
Their menu will feature build-your-own pizzas, brisket and ribs and a signature brisket pizza.
The restaurant will offer indoor and outdoor seating, a full bar and hand-crafted cocktails.
At opening, the restaurant will launch its “We’re All Neighbors Here” campaign, dedicating a portion of every soda purchase to a local nonprofit. The first beneficiary will be the Center of Anna Maria Island.
A long-term lease at 5910 Marina Drive was negotiated by Tom Aposporos, an island resident and broker associate with Duncan Real Estate.
The project is designed by Jack Bodziak, a longtime island architect, with Riker Construction’s Jason Rice, also a local islander, serving as general contractor for the build.
For more information, call 941-705-3513, email ryan@crustandq.com or go to crustandq.com.
CORTEZ VILLAGE, HALF MILE TO BEACH
Adorable 2-bedroom 1-bath cottage in the heart of the historic Cortez Fishing Village, one of Florida’s last remaining working waterfront communities. Walking distance to Star Fish Co., Swordfish Grill, Tide Tables and the Florida Maritime Museum. $475,000
BEACHFRONT CONDO This 2 BR/ 2BT offers one of the finest unobstructed views of the Gulf. Recently updated, coastal-inspired interior featuring a modern kitchen with granite countertops, tiled floors and an unbeatable vantage point for watching sunsets. Heated pool, private screened lanai, covered parking and turn-key furnishings to continue as a vacation rental. $1,250,000
Bradenton Beach commissioners March 19 adopted an ordinance establishing procedures for milestone inspections, aligning city code with state requirements.
Statewide reforms were passed after the 2021 Surfside condominium collapse and are intended to ensure the structural integrity of multistory buildings. Under state law, milestone inspections apply to residential buildings three stories or higher once they reach a certain age, with follow-up inspections required at regular intervals.
City attorney Erica Augello said the ordinance’s second reading included a clarification that the requirement applies to “habitable” three-story buildings.
Commissioners approved the measure unanimously with no public comment or discussion.
— Robert Anderson
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.
The land-based rod & reel Pier restaurant, 3246 E. Bay Drive, Holmes Beach, is exhibiting a model of the rod & reel Pier created by Tommy richardson. The pier in Anna Maria was destroyed in 2024 after Hurricane Helene caused significant damage and Hurricane Milton washed away the remaining structure. Owner Oliver lemke has said he intends to rebuild. islander Photo: robert Anderson
Thursday, April 2
8-9 a.m. — Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce sunrise breakfast, Mademoiselle Paris, 9906 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria. Fee applies. Info: 941-778-1541.
5-7 p.m. — AMI Chamber business card exchange and scholarship awards, LaPensee Plumbing, 401 Manatee Ave. W., Holmes Beach. Fee applies. Info: 941-778-1541.
SAVE THE DATES
• April 9, AMI Chamber luncheon, Kiwi Style Fish and Chips, Holmes Beach.
• May 8, AMI Chamber Golf Tournament, IMG Academy Golf Club, Bradenton. Send listings to calendar@islander.org — Lisa Neff
over one year, up 58.52% over three years.
Listings: 94 properties.
Holmes Beach
Median listing home price: $1,375,000, down 1.85% over one year, down 18.64% over three years.
Listings: 240 properties.
Manatee County
Median listing home price: $475,000, down 0.52% over one year, down 7.04% over three years.
Listings: 9,025 properties.
SCHWINN ROCKET 88 bicycle, $100. Craftsman garage door opener, never used, $50. Call Bill, 724-986-0314.
MANY DVDS AND VHS tapes, free. Just pick up. Call 941-447-6740.
BLACK AND RED roll suitcases, $40 each and carry-on suitcases, $15 each, Tigerxbang oar/ paddle for outdoors, $45. 941-920-2494.
FREEBIE
Individuals may place one free ad for up to three items, each priced $100 or less, 15 words or less. FREE, one week. Email classifieds@ islander.org
PriVATE ANNA MAriA island Dolphin Tours, Sunset Cruises and sandbar tours for up to twelve passengers with Manatee r iver Boat r entals and Water Sports. Visit us online: Dolphin Tours https://manateeriverwatersports.com/dolphin-tours-bradenton Sunset cruises, https://manateeriverwatersports.com/sunset-cruises-bradento n Sandbar tours, https://manateeriverwatersports.com/sandbar-tours-bradenton
LOOKING FOR FRANK from Island Print? He’s available by call or text 941-704-8108. Email frankhtc.fw@gmail.com
BiG MOViNG/GArAGE sale: 9 a.m.- 2 p.m. Friday and Saturday, April 3-4. lots of everything and priced to sell. 11133 Sanctuary Drive, Perico island, Bradenton.
GOLF CART RENTALS: Fun for residents and tourists! 941-213-5730. www.annamariacartrentals.com
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.
SUNSET CRUISES, EGMONT Key, bachelorette party boats and dolphin tours on Anna Maria Island with Manatee River boat rentals and water sports! Book unforgettable private charters with local USCG licensed captains. Explore AMI waters in comfort. Reserve now: https://manateeriverwatersports.com/ami-boatrentals
THE ISLANDER IS looking for a savvy, sharp, account rep to manage client advertising and hit the road to connect with businesses looking to increase their bottom line by advertising in the newspaper. We’ve got 34 years of experience and results to share. Email news@islander.org.
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 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.
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.
PC O r TECH 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.
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
GOT D irTY W i NDOWS? 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: Clean, 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.
ACHAUFFE r 4U FO r T r ANSPO rTAT i ON 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 WATCHE r : 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.
CLEANING SERVICES: Ten-plus years’ experience. Professional, prompt with a flexible schedule. Contact Jessica, 941-900-8051.
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.
BUSINESS-TO-BUSINESS JD’s Window Cleaning looking for storefront jobs in Holmes Beach. I make dirty windows sparkling clean. 941-920-3840.
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.
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.
VAN-GO PAINTING residential/commercial, interior/exterior, pressure cleaning, wallpaper. Island references. Bill, 941-795-5100. www. vangopainting.net.
GriFFiN’S HOME iMPrOVEMENTS 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 PAiNTiNG llC. interior/exterior/pressure washing. island references. dperkinspaint@hotmail.com. 941705-7096.
GOrillA DrYWAll rEPAir llC. let’s solve your drywall problems together. Give us a call at 941-286-0607.
QUEEN BEE PAiNTiNG: “We Do it royally.” interior/exterior painting and pressure washing, pool decks, garage floors, cabinets, popcorn ceiling and wallpaper removal, drywall, door and trim install and repair, window cleaning. Sheryl, 864-884-3380.
lOOKiNG FOr AN EArlY BirD? You can read Wednesday’s classifieds on Tuesday at islander.org. And it’s FrEE!
TETi TilE: 40 years’ experience in Delaware, now on AMi and surrounds. Tile, marble, murals. Free estimates. Call John Teti, 302983-5774.
TRUE TONE PAINTING: Painting, power washing, epoxy floors. 941-224-4020.
SOUTHWEST HOME IMPROVEMENT: Michigan builder, quality work guaranteed. Affordable, timely, within budget. Call Mike’s cell, 1-616-204-8822.
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. Refi nish, paint. Just ask. JayPros. Licensed/insured. References. Call Jay, 941-962-2874.
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 fl oor, high ceilings, screened lanai. Call or text Alison, 859-771-6423.
ANNUAL RENTALS AVAILABLE: Off Island: Perico Isle, 3BR/2BA unfurnished pool home, two-car garage, $3,100/month. Hidden Lake, 3BR/2BA furnished condo, $3,100/ month. All require application, fi rst, last and security. Wagner Realty, 941-778-2246.
CENTRAL HOLMES BEACH, 3BR/2BA completely remodeled, walk to beach, school, trolley, shopping. Annual, Reduced from $2,595 to $2,395/month. 941-713-6743.
ANNUAL RENTAL: HOLMES Beach. One block from beach. Duplex unit B. 2BR/1BA completely renovated. No smoking/no pets. Water/trash included in rent. $2,500/month. Call or text Joshua at Connect Management Group LLC, 941-545-0808 or email connectmgllc@gmail. com
COZY 2BR/1BA ANNUAL rental: Unfurnished north Holmes Beach, ground-level, backyard, five-minute walk to beach, washer/dryer hookup, no dishwasher, no smoking/no pets. $2,600/month plus utilities. 941-447-9672.
ANNUAL RENTAL: BRADENTON Beach. 3BR/2BA, garage. Steps to beach. Starts May. $2,500/month. First/last/security deposit. 941778-1098. Lhb747@gmail.com
ANNA MARIA COTTAGE available monthly for April, May and June. $4,200/month. 941-7788456. terryaposporos@gmail.com
WiNNiE MCHAlE, rEAlTOr, 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.”
MOrE BANG FOr YOUr BUCK? it’s still true when it comes to The islander. look for more online at islander.org.
BrADENTON CONDO FOr sale: Newly updated, fully furnished, 2Br/2BA, 1,100 sf. Carport, patio and docking available. $219,000. Call 941-704-9432.
A1 REMODEL: FLOOR-to-ceiling, everything new. Open kitchen, solid counter tops, 2BR/2BA. Windowed lanai, garden view. Community heated pool and spa. Pickle ball and tennis. $227,000. Real Estate Mart, 941-3561456.
