The Islander Newspaper E-Edition Wednesday, March, 11, 2026

Pier walkway progresses

Tampa Bay Marine employees work on sizing newly driven pilings March 4 so each pair can be connected with braces for poured concrete bents. TBM is rebuilding the 800foot Anna Maria City Pier

to

‘Great’ causeway cleanup

Anna Maria looks ahead to options for pier T-end

By Ryan Paice Islander Reporter

The future of the Anna Maria City Pier’s T-end has yet to be determined.

The city commission hosted a March 5 workshop to discuss the T-end, specifically whether the building should be retained or opened up.

The pier closed in 2024, after hurricanes Helene and Milton destroyed its walkway and left the T-end inaccessible.

The city hired Gibsonton-based Tampa Bay Marine to demolish what remained of the walkway and rebuild it stronger, with materials like solid concrete pilings.

Work on the walkway is projected for completion by June 30, according to Mayor Mark Short, who opened the workshop with a presentation.

But the rebuild will not stop there. Additional work is needed to get the pier in operational shape.

The city must repair the T-end platform, remediate its two buildings and replace the bathrooms.

The city also plans to address landside infrastructure at the pier by repairing the boardwalk, hooking up utilities and more.

Short said the city will issue requests for proposals for the work on both the T-end and landside.

The project is expected to cost $7.1-7.8 million, much of which will be covered by outside sources like the U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency.

In the meantime, the city is trying to figure out what to do with the T-end with Mote Marine Laboratory gone.

The municipality hosted a workshop in January to discuss potential uses. Multiple public commenters called for the city to bring back a full-service restaurant to the pier, but no decisions were made.

The March 5 workshop was focused on collecting feedback about whether the T-end building that used to house Mote’s Marine Science Education and Outreach Center should remain enclosed or be opened up.

St.Patrick’s Day processional March 17 at Roser Church

At 11 a.m.

page 10. Island Courtesy Photo

St. Pat’s Parade set for March 15

The Center of Anna Maria Island will host its annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade 4-6 p.m. Sunday, March 15, beginning at Holmes Beach City Hall, 5801 Marina Drive.

Participants will line up on Flotilla facing south, then proceed along 58th Street to Marina Drive, Palm Drive, Gulf Drive, Pine Avenue, Tarpon Street and Magnolia Avenue, ending at the center, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria.

Sponsors include AMI Dolphin Tours, Duffy’s Tavern and Duncan Real Estate Inc.

Duncan presents the parade, which is organized by the community center.

The island parade originated with Sean Murphy and his Beach Bistro restaurant in Holmes Beach.

For more information or to register, go to centerami.org or call 941-778-1908.

Short said retaining the shell would provide a space for a restaurant that could seat around 50 people.

On the other hand, Short said, the city could open up the building shell by replacing the windows with

HB still working, sodding dog park

By Ryan Paice Islander Reporter

Improvements are underway at Anna Maria Island’s only dedicated dog park.

But there is still a long way to go — or grow, in this case — before the park’s makeover is complete.

Holmes Beach public works director Herb Raybourn told The Islander March 5 about the ongoing work on the dog park at city field, between 62nd Street, Flotilla Drive and 59th Street.

The park features separate spaces for large and small dogs, provides drinking water, a wash-off area and multiple shade structures and benches.

However, it has seen better days.

When the municipality used city field to store debris following hurricanes Helene and Milton in late 2024, the irrigation system to the dog park was damaged and much of the grass died.

A new irrigation system was installed, but the grass has yet to rebound. Its poor condition — along with other issues — led several dog park users to call for

‘Great’ Manatee cleanup

Paul harteg carries a barnacle-encrusted tire that he recovered March 7 from the shoreline of Palma Sola Bay South during the Great american cleanup. The cleanup, held 9 a.m.noon and coordinated by Keep Manatee Beautiful, brought nearly 100 volunteers to shoreline and roadside areas to contribute to the area’s beautification. Islander

robert anderson

DOG PARK cONTINUED FrOM PaGE 1 improvements last December.

In response, the city created a plan, including:

• Resodding the park with the help of a $5,000 donation;

• Planting shady lady and cabbage palm trees;

• Replacing aging roofs on both dugouts — leftover from the former baseball field — in the large dog area, as well as repainting the structures;

• Adding a new bench;

• Adjusting the wash-off area at the gate.

Much of that work began in January with trees planted and sodding.

The sodded areas have been marked off to protect the sod while it takes root.

The east and north sides of the big dog park and small dog park are next to be resodded.

Raybourn said the sod was taking longer than

expected to take root, but public works will keep monitoring and watering the sod until it takes.

He added that the original plan was to reopen the newly sodded areas in mid-March, but that could be delayed for a week or two to ensure the sod is established.

“We just have to wait and be patient,” Raybourn said.

In the meantime, public works staff has begun work on the dugouts, which provide shade for parkgoers.

Staff replaced the roof of one dugout over the first week of March and was set to paint the structure — using a color chosen by parkgoers — over the week of March 9.

After that work is done, public works will do the same with the second dugout.

Track improvements at holmesbeachfl.org.

Erratic driver crashes near Longboat Pass

Bradenton Beach police officers observed a southbound white sport-utility vehicle traveling erratically at high speeds on Gulf Drive about 2:49 p.m. March 3 before the motorist crashed on Longboat Key.

Responders said a medical issue may have been a factor and the motorist was not cited.

Officers were responding to a minor crash in the 1600 block of Gulf Drive South in Bradenton Beach and observed an SUV traveling southbound, passing several vehicles in the center lane at an estimated 80 mph, according to a police report.

Officer Eric Hill attempted to catch up to the motorist.

After crossing the bridge onto Longboat Key, Hill observed skid marks, damaged signs and a debris trail in the

Longboat firefighters work to extricate a driver who crashed into a stand of trees near the Longboat Pass Bridge. Islander Photo: courtesy Longboat Key

Election 2026

At the polls

Voters in the West Manatee Fire Rescue District were to cast ballots on a tax referendum March 10. Voting in precincts was set for 7 a.m.-7 p.m. Look for results at islander.org and in the March 18 issue of The Islander.

Election calendar

• State, county and special district candidate qualifying, June 8-June 12.

• Anna Maria qualifying, June

7100 block of Gulf of Mexico Drive. He then located the SUV on its left side against a stand of trees.

Longboat Key Fire Department crews removed an 80-year-old driver from the wreckage and the man was transported to HCA Florida Blake Hospital in Bradenton with injuries.

LBK police reported the vehicle struck an electrical box before overturning, temporarily knocking out power to several homes on the north end of Longboat Key.

— robert anderson

1-June 12.

• Bradenton Beach qualifying, June 8-12.

• Holmes Beach candidate qualifying, June 8-12.

• Registration deadline for 2026 primaries, Monday, July 20.

• Primaries, Tuesday, Aug. 18.

• General election, Tuesday, Nov. 3.

— Lisa Neff

West Manatee Fire leading drowning prevention event at island beach

West Manatee Fire Rescue doesn’t just fight fires — it’s also leading the fight against drownings.

WMFR is leading a “Wave for Water Safety” event 8 a.m.-11 a.m. Saturday, March 14, at the Manatee Public Beach, 4000 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach.

The district has led these events at the entrance to the beach on the Saturday before spring break every year since 2023.

They are intended to raise awareness about drowning in an effort to prevent such tragedies in the future.

WMFR encourages people to participate in the event by attending, grabbing premade signs provided by district staff and spreading the message together.

People can learn more about the district and its event on its website, wmfr.org.

— ryan Paice

Holmes Beach celebrates city clerk retirement

holmes Beach city clerk Stacey Johnston, second from the right, smiles March 5 alongside retired holmes Beach deputy clerk Lori Kee, left, retired anna Maria and Bradenton Beach clerk (since 1986) alice Baird and soon-to-be former hB deputy clerk Michelle Lowe, right, during Johnston’s retirement party at Fifty Three Fifty-The Pourhouse, 5350 Gulf Drive, holmes Beach. Johnston served as hB city clerk since august 2007 and is succeeded by Marina hovious. Islander

Photos: Bonner Joy

Thursday: Bar Special, $3.50 Domestic Beers, $4 Sliders ~ Happy Hour All Night!

Bradenton Beach approves social media archiving system

By robert anderson and ryan Paice Islander reporters

Social media is an increasingly important way for municipal governments to communicate with the public.

But that can create a problem for governments in Florida that must work in the “Sunshine.”

How is social media being archived for compliance with the Government-in-the-Sunshine Laws?

While the city of Holmes Beach already employs a CivicPlus module to archive its social media accounts, the other two island cities have yet to establish such a system.

Florida’s public records law requires most documents created or received by government agencies to be open to the public. The law also applies to government activity on social media, meaning posts, comments and replies tied to official city accounts may qualify as public records and must be preserved.

State record schedules generally require routine social media communications be retained for at least 90 days, though records tied to official actions or investigations may need to be kept longer.

Because content on platforms like Facebook can be edited and deleted, many government entities use archiving services to capture posts and comments.

Bradenton Beach

Bradenton Beach city commissioners March 5 approved using CivicPlus’ social media archiving software to archive the municipality’s social media and ensure compliance with public record laws.

Mayor John Chappie said the system will help the city meet requirements, including social media posts.

While the city of Bradenton Beach does not operate a citywide social media account, the Bradenton Beach Police Department’s public information officer ChrisAnn Allen manages social media pages.

In a March 5 interview with The Islander, Allen said the archiving system will capture posts and the public responses that follow.

“The company that we have the city website through provides a service where they archive all of our social media,” Allen said. “You can have up to 12 sites or pages.”

Allen, a former Islander reporter, said archiving comments is important because social media interac-

Bradenton Beach police public information officer chrisann allen.

In the sunshine

Sunshine Week 2026 runs March 15–21, marking a national initiative to promote open government, public records access and freedom of information. In Florida, Sunshine Week is coordinated by the University of Florida’s Brechner Freedom of Information Project. For more information about Sunshine Week, go to sunshineweek.org.

tions can disappear if not preserved.

“One of the problems is if the original commenter deletes their comment, everything attached to that comment gets deleted as well, unless it’s archived,” she said.

Because of that risk, the CivicPlus system automatically captures activity as it happens.

“When I log in, you log in through their (CivicPlus) system,” Allen said. “As you make posts and people comment, from the get-go it’s always saved.”

Allen said the archiving system is widely used by public agencies, including Holmes Beach, the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office and the School District of Manatee County.

She said social media increasingly functions as a public forum for government communication.

“That’s how it’s been referred to in Sunshine training,” Allen said. “Social media is basically a digital town hall.”

“You can make one statement and put it out there, and so many people see it,” she said.

Anna Maria

The city of Anna Maria may also employ the CivicPlus archiving software in the future.

City clerk Amber LaRowe told The Islander March 5 that she plans to advocate for the city to purchase the CivicPlus social media archiving module in fiscal 2026-27, which will begin Oct. 1.

LaRowe, who became city clerk last March, oversees the city’s social media accounts on Facebook and Instagram.

She said she learned that neither account was backed up by an archiving system while working on the municipality’s new website.

While the city’s current budget does not include funding for the CivicPlus social media archiving module, LaRowe said she will push for the city to fund it in the future.

In the meantime, the city does not delete its social media posts and does not allow user comments, so fulfilling a records request is as simple as rewinding to a post and taking a screenshot.

Nevertheless, LaRowe said the city had to be careful about editing posts, since it is required to record every iteration of a post, or deleting them, and they must still be archived even if they are deleted.

Bradenton Beach moves to enforce condo inspection law

By robert anderson Islander reporter

Bradenton Beach commissioners unanimously approved the first reading of an ordinance March 5 establishing procedures to enforce Florida’s condominium milestone inspection requirements.

The ordinance would amend Chapter 26 of the city’s code by creating a new section governing condominium inspections and compliance reporting.

Attorney Robert Eschenfelder of Trask Daigneault, standing in for city attorney Erica Augello, told commissioners the measure is required under recent changes to Florida law aimed at strengthening condominium safety.

“You’ll recall that two sessions ago they adopted these new heightened standards for condominiums in the aftermath of the condominium across the state that collapsed,” Eschenfelder said, referring to the Cham-

plain Towers South collapse in Surfside, which killed 98 people and exposed weaknesses in building inspection and repair requirements for coastal condominiums.

In response to the collapse, lawmakers adopted statewide standards requiring structural inspections and stronger financial reserves for repairs.

“The Legislature adopted a law last year that requires cities and counties to adopt reporting obligation ordinances that, at the local level, enforce the milestone inspections,” Eschenfelder said.

Milestone inspections are structural safety inspections required for certain condo buildings in Florida to make sure they remain safe as they age.

Under the state’s milestone inspection program, condominium buildings three stories or taller must undergo structural inspections once they reach a certain age and at regular intervals thereafter. The inspections are intended to identify structural deterioration

to open the shell or not.

and ensure repairs are completed before safety risks develop.

Eschenfelder said the Bradenton Beach ordinance largely mirrors the state statute and provides a local mechanism to ensure compliance.

The ordinance assigns responsibility to the city’s building offi cial to track inspection reports, verify compliance and enforce deadlines for condominium associations.

The measure also establishes administrative procedures, including filing requirements, fees and potential penalties if associations fail to submit inspection reports or complete required repairs.

Commissioners approved the ordinance on first reading following the presentation.

The measure will need to return before the commission for a second reading before final adoption.

The commission’s next meeting will be at noon, Thursday, March 19, at city hall, 107 Gulf Drive N. sliding doors, which could open up enough space for 96 or more seats.

He said the open shell may better serve a water ferry at the pier, since it would provide more seating.

“This would reinforce the openness of people to go out there and not feel obligated that they have to buy something to be out there,” Short said.

He added that opening the shell would likely cost more than retaining the existing closed shell.

Both options may impact the timeframe to open the pier, according to Short.

Short said he believed it would be “wise” for the city to solicit bids for opening the shell, since that setup would provide more flexibility and seating.

“It still gives us the flexibility to have a restaurant. It gives us the fl exibility to open it up. It gives the flexibility to have maybe an ancillary kind of small footprint-type operation in there. It gives us more room for people to roam,” he said.

Commissioner Gary McMullen agreed. He called the decision to open the shell a “no-brainer.”

Commissioner Kathleen Morgan-Johnson said she would like to determine the T-end use before deciding

Commissioner John Lynch was absent with excuse.

Resident Ray Hyer expressed support for a sitdown restaurant on the T-end. He said he would leave the shell as is and allow a future tenant to remodel the space to best accommodate that business.

“I’ve remodeled 13 houses in my life. It sounds easy to replace a window here or a slider there, but it always is more complicated and more expensive,” Hyer said.

Brian Seymour, co-owner of the City Pier Grill & Bait Shop, said the space would be more valuable from an operator’s view as a single use.

“If we’re limited to only a portion of the building and none of the seating is guaranteed, that’s less square footage technically that’s usable,” Seymour said.

Resident Barbara Ehren said she liked the idea of accommodating the ferry landing.

Short said he would review their feedback with city staff and include discussion on the agenda.

The city commission will meet next at 1 p.m. Thursday, March 12, at city hall, 10005 Gulf Drive.

OpinionOur

Leprechauns beware

Anna Maria Islanders, likening their spirit to that of the Emerald Isle back to the death of St. Patrick in the fifth century, are sparked by the festive holiday.

It was left to the new world — St. Augustine in 1601 — to commemorate the traditional Irish feast with the first parade.

It thereafter became a decidedly more festive day.

Thanks to a growing population of Irish immigrants in New York City, the first parade in 1762 has grown to be the largest and oldest St. Patrick’s Day parade in the world.

In the world!

Chicago is famed for dyeing its river green and a parade going back to 1962, and Savannah, Georgia, claims to be the St. Patrick’s Day capital of the south.

But as blarney grows wild among the Irish, the AMI St. Patrick’s Day Parade has grown since 1998 to be known as the largest on an island in Florida, with plenty of shenanigans and malarkey.

And it may be the only parade that surprises paradegoers with camels and an occasional elephant among its participants — thanks to the originator, Sean “Bistro” Murphy.

I’m feeling particularly remiss that Mr. Murphy has slithered away to the Seattle area, as if driven out of Ireland by St. Patrick.

I feel remiss that there was no parting celebration. No toast to the good times. No smiles. No hugs. No tears. He was the consummate host of AMI and I, for one, would like a chance to repay him.

Well, perhaps we can buy him a ticket back to AMI and the St. Pat parade to show him we care.

We can try.

Turning to spring break on AMI, there’s a warning that comes to all of Florida, and especially to the racing tidal current at the north end of Anna Maria Island where the drowning — and near-drowning — rates have gone up.

Thankfully, West Manatee Fire Rescue doesn’t just fight fires — it’s fighting against drownings.

The district has hosted a beach event focusing on awareness just before spring break every year since 2023.

You’re invited to attend, grab one of their premade signs and spread the message together.

“Wave for Water Safety” will be 8 a.m.-11 a.m. Saturday, March 14, at the Manatee Public Beach, 4000 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach.

Put on some green and join us there.

— Bonner Joy

OpinionYour

Putting the brakes on

I’m writing about something that is a public safety hazard in all three towns: the many bicyclists that traverse our island on a daily basis.

I live in a resort community on Cape Cod in Massachusetts. So we have the same issues in the summertime. I’ve spoken to my Massachusetts local police department and I also spoke with several police officers during the “coffee with a cop” event at the Island Coffee Shack this winter.

Connections

Skimming online

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Q&A The Islander poll

▼ Publisher, editor

MARCH 11, 2026 Vol. 34, No. 20

Bonner Joy, news@islander.org

▼ Editorial robert anderson, robert@islander.org

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

Jack Elka, jackelka000@gmail.com

Lisa Neff, lisa@islander.org ryan Paice, ryan@islander.org

▼ Contributors

Jacob Merrifield

capt. Danny Stasny, fish@islander.org

▼ Advertising Sales

Lisa E hlywa, lisae@islander.org ads@islander.org

▼ Lisa Williams

info@, accounting@, classifieds@, subscriptions@islander.org

▼ Distribution Urbane Bouchet ross roberts

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▼ Webmaster Wayne Ansell

The issue with bike riders is they don’t seem to understand that when they are riding their bikes, they are motorists, which means they are bound by all the rules of the road.

They are mandated to stop at every stop sign, but I have not seen one bicyclist stop. They just blow right through.

All others: info@islander.org

The police on the island have indicated that unless they catch bicyclists in the act of blowing through the stop signs, there’s not a lot they can do.

So I’m looking to your paper to get the word out.

I also think that the companies that rent out bicycles should make it clear, providing written instructions that the renter would have to sign that they are required to stop at stop signs.

Please get the word out before tragedy strikes.

Kate Eglee, Orleans, Massachusetts Local libraries matter

On behalf of the board and the volunteers of the Tingley Memorial Library, I would like to thank you for covering our recent reopening celebration.

Your article helped shine a light on a small but very important part of our Bradenton Beach community,

We are grateful you helped highlight the work being done to revitalize and reestablish it as a welcoming community hub.

how will you celebrate St. Patrick’s Day on anna Maria Island?

A. Green beer and live music at a favorite pub.

B. Feasting on corned beef and cabbage.

C. Catching the parade March 15.

D. All of the above.

To answer the poll, go to islander.org.

Last week’s question

We sprang forward on March 8. How do you feel about daylight saving time?

• We should stick with it permanently. 38%

• Love it, and the extra evening light. 33%

• Hate it, and the disruption to my cycle. 25%

• Indifferent, it doesn’t really affect me. 5%

In an increasingly digital world, libraries remain one of the few places where people can gather, learn, and access information freely.

Your coverage helps remind readers that local libraries still matter!

Thank you again for helping tell our story and for supporting the Tingley Memorial Library.

Pam Rottschafer, Tingley Library board chair

Generous donors

The Friends of the Island Library would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to our generous community

‘Ye Wabash Cottage’ a postcard circa 1910-18 shows “Ye Wabash Cottage” on Anna Maria. The cottage rental was typical of the style of property built on the island at the time, especially in Anna Maria. “Ye Wabash cottage” served as a vacation residence until at least the 1930s. Islander Images: courtesy Manatee county Public Library System

Looking back

for the wonderful donations to our upcoming Jewelry Sale March 12-14.

The quality and quantity of the jewelry is truly breathtaking!

You’ll find fine jewelry, vintage and estate treasures, beautiful designer selections and an abundance of everyday costume jewelry. It is a remarkable collection of sparkling finds — made possible entirely through your kindness and ongoing support of our libraries.

We look forward to seeing you at the sale and shar-

OPINIONS cONTINUED FrOM PaGE 6 43.4K

Postcard from the pier a postcard from 1966 shows the rod & reel Pier, 875 N. Shore Drive, anna Maria. Bill Brier built the pier in 1947 and about five years later added the landside motel. hurricane helene damaged the pier in September 2024. Soon after, hurricane Milton washed away much of the structure.

ing this special event together. Thank you again for helping make it all possible.

Julie Perry, Friends of the Island Library sale chair

Letters to the editor

The Islander welcomes your opinion letters. Letters should be no more than 250 words and include a name, address and contact phone number. Email to news@islander.org.

10-20-30 years ago

From the March 7, 1996, issue

• Bradenton Beach’s city commission voted 3-1 for mayor Leroy Arnold to resign. The commission cited concerns for lawsuits, alleged civil rights violations and sexual harassment claims, as well as failure to attend meetings.

• The director of the island’s turtle watch program was denied a state permit for sea turtle management. Director Chuck Shumard had described himself as a “maverick,” saying he disagreed with state guidelines on leaving turtle nests in place and instead relocating eggs to hatcheries.

From the March 8, 2006, issue

• Tempers flared at a meeting, with Holmes Beach residents threatening legal action if the commission adopted an ordinance on dock usage in canals.

• Family Circle magazine featured the quirky Mr. Bones BBQ and celebrated the Holmes Beach restaurant’s bread pudding as one of six favorite restaurant desserts from coast to coast.

From the March 9, 2016, issue

• With a stroke of a pen, Holmes Beach building official Jim McGuinness approved the construction of Waterline — two three-story buildings with open-air connections, 37 two-bedroom lodging units, a pool and deck, an 80-seat restaurant and 98 parking spaces — for Mainsail AMI Marina, the resort’s corporate entity.

• The Center of Anna Maria Island celebrated March 5, 2016, with a burning of its loan documents during the annual murder-mystery dinner in the center’s gymnasium.

— Lisa Neff

Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce reports approximately 20K visitors for February.

Reach out to learn how your marketing plans can benefit from The Islander readers.

* Per statcounter. 03/11/26

compiled by Lisa Neff, calendar@islander.org

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

ONGOING ON AMI

• Through March 29, Island Players present “Second Time Around,” 10009 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria. Fee applies. Info: www. theislandplayers.org, 941-778-5755.

• 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 March, Artists Guild Gallery exhibit by Candace Bennington, 5414 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Info: amiartistsguildgallery.com, 941-778-6694.

OFF AMI

Saturday, March 14

11 a.m.-2 p.m. — DeSoto National Memorial Food Truck Saturdays, 8300 Desoto Memorial Highway, Bradenton. Info: 941-7920458.

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 March 19, “Clyde Butcher Lifeworks in Photography,” the Bishop Museum of Science and Nature, 201 10th St. W., Bradenton. Fee applies. Info: 941-746-4131.

• 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 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.

SAVE THE DATES

• March 28, Center of Anna Maria Island Wine Tasting, Anna Maria.

• March 28, Realize Bradenton’s BAM!Fest, Bradenton.

• April 4-5, Coquina Beach Spring Art and Craft Show, Bradenton Beach.

KIDS

& FAMILY ON AMI

Sunday, March 15

4 p.m. — St. Patrick’s Day Parade, from Holmes Beach City Hall north to the Center of Anna Maria Island. Info: 941-778-1908.

ONGOING ON AMI

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

Walk-a-thon, Riverwalk Pavilion at Rossi Park, 452 3rd Ave. W., Bradenton. Info: 941-747-8808.

Tuesday, March 17

9 a.m. — Palma Sola Botanical Park Garden Workday, 9800 17th Ave NW, Bradenton. Info: 941-761-2866.

SAVE THE DATES

• March 21, Roser Church Pancake Breakfast, Anna Maria.

• March 21, Center Cleanup, Anna Maria.

• March 25, Annie Silver Dinner, Bradenton Beach.

• April 11, Pace Center Lucky Ducky Race, Bradenton.

• April 11, Center Beach Cleanup, Anna Maria.

• April 18, AME Gala, Anna Maria. MARKETS & COMMUNITY SALES ON AMI

Thursday, March 12

3-7 p.m. — Friends of the Island Library Jewelry Sale preview, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Info: 941-7786341.

Friday, March 13

org.

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

SAVE THE DATES

• March 20, Center Bingo Night, Anna Maria.

• April 4, Center Easter Egg Hunt, Anna Maria.

• April 24, Center Bingo Night, Anna Maria.

• April 25, De Soto Grand Parade and Block Party, Bradenton.

CLUBS

& COMMUNITY ON AMI

Friday, March 13

5 p.m. — City Block Party, City Pier Park, Pine Avenue and Bay Boulevard, Anna Maria. Info: 941-708-6130. Wednesday, March 18

10 a.m.-2 p.m. — Anna Maria Island Historical Society Heritage Day, 402 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Info: 941-778-0492.

ONGOING ON AMI

• Thursdays through March, 6 p.m., Annie Silver Community Center bingo games, 103 23rd St. N., Bradenton Beach. Info: 513368-6454‬.

• 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.

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

OFF AMI

Wednesday, March 11

11:45 a.m. — Offstage Ladies luncheon and program, Anna Maria Oyster Bar, 6906 14th St. W., Bradenton. Fee applies. Info: 941 932-2798.

Saturday, March 14

9 a.m. — Humane Society of Manatee County’s Paws in Motion

11 a.m.-4 p.m. — Friends of the Island Library Jewelry Sale, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Info: 941-7786341.

Saturday, March 14

11 a.m.-4 p.m. — Friends of the Island Library Jewelry Sale, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Info: 941-7786341.

ONGOING ON AMI

• Tuesdays, through April, 9 a.m.-2 p.m., Anna Maria Community 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.

OFF AMI

Friday, March 13

5-7:30 p.m. — Artists’ Guild of Anna Maria Night Market and Paint Around, 5414 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6694.

Saturday, March 14

9 a.m.-1 p.m. — Florida Maritime Museum Nautical Flea Market, 4415 119th St. W., Cortez. Info: 941-708-6120.

ONGOING OFF AMI

• Saturdays through end of May, 9 a.m.-2 p.m., Bradenton Public Market, Old Main Street, Bradenton. Information: 941-3018445.

Guild continues Night Markets

The Artists’ Guild of Anna Maria Island will hold its remaining Market Night events for the 2025-26 season on March 13 and April 10, from 5-7 p.m. at the Guild Gallery, 5414 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach.

Guild members will be on hand to discuss their work and light refreshments will be available.

Founded in 1989, AGAMI is an all-volunteer nonprofit dedicated to promoting the local arts community.

For more information, visit amiartistsguildgallery. com or call (941) 778-6694.

Heritage Day set for March 18

The Anna Maria Island Historical Society will hold its annual Heritage Day Festival 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Wednesday, March 18, at Historical Park, 402 Pine Ave., Anna Maria.

Admission is free, with donations welcome.

The festival will offer something for all ages, with arts, crafts and information booths, a silent auction and raffles, live music by Trevor Bystrom and traditional fare including Strawberry Shortcake and Settlers Bread. Visitors also can take tours of the museum and Belle Haven and expect to see an invasion by the Anna Maria Island Privateers.

For more, call the museum at 941-778-0492.

Wednesday, March 18

10 a.m. — Terrestrial Animals program, Island Library, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Info: 941-778-6341.

• Through March 23, Pittsburgh Pirates spring training, LECOM Park, 1611 Ninth St. W., Bradenton. Fee applies. Info: 941-7473031.

• April 2, Bradenton Marauders season begins.

• May 8, AMI Chamber Golf Tournament, Bradenton.

• May 9, Rotary Fishing Tournament, Cortez.

• 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.

Island happenings

Players give love a 2nd act

The Island Players are bringing a warm dose of romance and comedy to the stage with “The Second Time Around,” a witty play by Henry Denker that asks: what happens when love shows up later in life — and your kids aren’t exactly thrilled about it?

Running March 12–29, the production follows Samuel and Laura, two widowed adults who’ve found love and decided to live together without marrying. Their choice sets off a comedic chain reaction among their well-meaning but meddlesome adult children, turning a tender romance into a hilarious tug-of-war between generations.

Directed by Preston Boyd and co-produced by Sato Real Estate, the show promises sharp dialogue and genuine heart alongside the laughs. It’s the kind of story that tends to resonate across age groups — a reminder, as the company puts it, that love doesn’t come with an expiration date.

Showtimes are 7:30 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday and 2 p.m. Sundays.

Nautical Flea Market returns

The Florida Maritime Museum will host the Cortez Nautical Flea Market 9 am.-1 p.m. Saturday, March 14, at 4415 119th St. W. in the historic fishing village.

Admission is free.

The family-friendly event will feature sales of new and used fishing gear, boating accessories, coastal art and crafts, and activity booths with local organizations.

A food truck serving coffee and breakfast items will be on-site.

Free parking is available at the FISH Preserve on Cortez Road, east of the museum.

The event is supported by the Friends of the Florida Maritime Museum, the Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau and the AMI Islander.

For more information, visit floridamaritimemuseum.org or call 941-708-6120.

• March 17, St. Patrick’s Day.

• April 1, April Fool’s Day.

• April 3, Good Friday.

• April 5, Easter.

• April 22, Earth Day.

• May 5, Cinco de Mayo.

• May 10, Mother’s Day.

The Island Players rehearse “The Second Time around.” The show runs March 12–29 at the anna Maria theater, 10009 Gulf Drive. Islander courtesy Photo

Off Stage Ladies to lunch

The Off Stage Ladies of the Island Players will hold their March meeting and luncheon at 11:45 a.m. Wednesday, March 11, Anna Maria Oyster Bar, 6906 14th St. W., Bradenton.

Gail Swain will present a slate of candidates for club elections and nominations from the floor will also be accepted.

The group meets on the second Wednesday of each month, October through May.

Annual dues are $30.

Those interested in membership can contact Roe Duncan, at 941-932-2798.

The Island Players Theatre is at 10009 Gulf Drive in Anna Maria.

Tickets are $28 for adults and $18 for students. For tickets, visit theislandplayers.org or call the box office — open 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Monday-Saturday and an hour before showtime — at 941- 778-5755.

May 15, Armed Forces Day.

May 25, Memorial Day.

June, Pride Month.

June 14, Flag Day.

June 21, Father’s Day.

listings to calendar@islander.org.

Gathering By Lisa Neff

LBK church hosts brunch

Christ Church of Longboat Key Presbyterian will host a community brunch at 11 a.m. Sunday, March 15, in the church’s fellowship hall, featuring presentations from two mission partners serving vulnerable populations locally and internationally.

The event, themed “Loving Our Neighbors, Fostering Hope and Help,” will introduce attendees to Harvest House and Hope Seeds — organizations the congregation supports financially and through volunteer work.

No reservations are required, and organizers emphasize the gathering is not a fundraiser.

Harvest House president Dan Minor will speak about the organization’s facilities providing housing, mental health counseling, job placement and spiritual services.

Hope Seeds president Dave Balsbaugh will describe work distributing seeds in Haiti, the Bahamas and Africa alongside Christian literature.

A 10 a.m. worship service precedes the brunch.

Christ Church is at 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key.

For more information, call 941-383-8833.

Lawrence William White

Lawrence “Larry” William White died Feb. 28 in Sarasota.

He was born in Chicago in 1935 to William and Josephine White.

In the 1980s, he directed the Panama City Beach tourism bureau. He moved to Sarasota in 1991 to serve as executive director of the Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau and the convention center. He was especially proud of his development of the Powel Crosley Estate, an event and wedding host location. He retired in 2010 from the BACVB.

Mr. White’s successor at the BACVB, Elliott Falcione, offered a remembrance: “Larry was a true leader in Florida tourism, and his work in the Bradenton area

The chitans will perform Sunday, March 15, at harvey Memorial community church in Bradenton Beach. Islander courtesy Photo

Gospel group at Harvey

The Chitans, a family gospel ensemble, will bring a multi-genre concert to Harvey Memorial Community Church in Bradenton Beach at 4 p.m. Sunday, March 15.

The group’s repertoire spans Southern Gospel, contemporary Christian, Black Gospel, Caribbean music and traditional hymns, offering a broad showcase of American and global Christian musical traditions in a single evening program.

Tickets are not required.

A freewill offering will be collected.

Harvey Memorial Community Church is at 208 Church Ave.

For more information, call 248-766-4047.

greatly impacted our community. His vision and dedication helped create thousands of hospitality jobs and improved the quality of life for residents. Larry was one of a kind and will be deeply missed.”

No service is planned.

He is survived by his partner of 16 years, Michelle Hollingsworth of Sarasota; daughters Deanna White McAlexander and husband Andy of Memphis, Tennessee; Laura of Dover, Delaware, and Andrea White Berryhill and husband Tony of McRae, Georgia; stepdaughters Lori Simmons and Jane Simmons of Panama City; six grandchildren and a great-grandchild.

are offered as a

news@islander.org.

Bagpiper to lead St. Pat’s Day procession at Roser Church

A traditional Scottish bagpiper will kick off Anna Maria Island’s St. Patrick’s Day celebrations Tuesday, March 17, with a musical march through a farmers market and into a historic Anna Maria church. At 11 a.m., Bill Sanderson — known as “Highland Bill” — will perform on the outdoor stage behind Roser Church before leading a public procession into the church sanctuary at 512 Pine Ave., near the City Pier.

The free event will conclude with a lecture and live demonstration covering the history, construction, and music of the bagpipes.

Sanderson, whose grandmother was born in Glasgow and raised in Dysart, Scotland, took up the pipes after being inspired by pipers he heard in downtown Edinburgh during a family trip.

He has since developed a full performance — “Tunes, Tales and Kilts” — blending live music with Scottish history and audience participation.

For more information, call 941-778-0414 or visit roserchurch.com.

Walk benefits Humane Society

The Humane Society of Manatee County will hold its 19th annual Paws in Motion Walk-a-thon at 9 a.m. Saturday, March 14, at Rossi Park, 452 3rd Ave. W., Bradenton.

On-site registration opens at 9 a.m., with the 1.5mile walk beginning at 10 a.m.

Following the walk, attendees can enjoy music, refreshments, food trucks, raffle prizes and a Vendor Village. Adoptable dogs will also be on-site. Proceeds fund medical care and enrichment for animals at the Second Chance Adoption Center. For more information, call 941-747-8808, ext. 315.

Garden days end in May

Palma Sola Botanical Park is hosting monthly Garden Workdays through spring, with upcoming sessions scheduled for March 17, April 22 and May 19 at the park, 9800 17th Ave., Bradenton. Each session runs 9 a.m.-noon. The public is welcome, and all ability levels can participate. The April 22 session coincides with Earth Day.

For more information, call 941-761-2866.

Friends hold jewelry sale

The Friends of the Island Library will host their annual Jewelry Sale at the Island Branch Library in Holmes Beach, offering shoppers a chance to browse fine, vintage, estate and costume jewelry donated by the local community.

The public sale runs Friday-Saturday, March 13-14 from 11 a.m.-4 p.m. at the library, 5701 Marina Drive.

Friends members get an exclusive preview 3-7 p.m. Thursday, March 12.

All proceeds benefit the Island Library.

Donations of gently used jewelry and small accessories are still being accepted at the library’s circulation desk, with tax receipts available for donors.

For more info, call the library at 941-778-6341.

Block party at City Pier Park

The City of Anna Maria will hold a community block party Friday, March 13, beginning at 5 p.m. at City Pier Park at Pine Avenue and Bay Boulevard.

City commissioners will work the grill while Ted Stevens and the Doo Shots will provide live music.

Attendees are encouraged to bring a dish to share.

For more information, call the city at 941-7086130.

An Anna Maria Island real estate agent is asking people to think twice before tossing out their empty toilet paper and paper towel rolls — because for dogs at Manatee County Animal Welfare, those cardboard tubes could make the difference between getting adopted and not.

Kim Bowersox, a Realtor/sales agent with Keller Williams on the Water, is organizing a community collection drive through Sunday, March 15, to gather empty cardboard rolls and packaged dog treats for the enrichment program at Manatee County Animal Welfare.

Volunteers use the rolls to make scent puzzles — stuffing treats inside and folding the ends — that give shelter dogs a mentally stimulating activity to help them decompress.

“Many shelter dogs come from difficult or traumatic situations and are understandably fearful, overstimulated or stressed in the shelter environment,” Bowersox told The Islander via email. “Providing healthy outlets for that energy can help them feel calmer and more balanced — which in turn can make them more approachable and adoptable when potential families come to visit.”

For Bowersox, the cause is deeply personal. In December 2023, she adopted Molly from an Orlando shelter where the dog had spent 87 days and was just three days from being euthanized.

Molly arrived fearful and underweight at 44

Island happenings

Westcoast theater leaders lecture

Nate Jacobs, right, founder and artistic director of Sarasota’s Westcoast Black Theater Troupe, and Michael Mendez, in his 16th season with WBTT, conclude the Friends of the Island Library 2026 lecture series at the library, 5701 Marina Drive, holmes Beach. The Feb. 26 lecture focused on challenges, mentoring, arts, culture and inspiration. Friends president Nancy Deal said the speakers focused on “achieving dreams with dedication and with the help of others.” Deal also said the Friends group is at work on the 2027 series.

Island real estate agent collects toilet paper rolls, treats for shelter dog playtime

pounds. After six months of daily training and patience, she weighs a healthy 65 pounds and is, by her owner’s description, confident and well-adjusted.

Bowersox said the drive was sparked by a post from For the Love of Dogs, a volunteer group that supports MCAW, which highlighted the rolls’ use as enrichment tools.

Drop-off locations include the Center of Anna Maria Island, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria; Holmes Beach City Hall, 5801 Marina Drive; Anna Maria Island Coffee Shack, 5500 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach; and the Holmes Beach Dog Park at city field, 6000 Flotilla Drive.

For more information, contact Kim Bowersox at kim@amirealtor.com or 407-383-3519.

— Lisa Neff

Hungry pelican rehab

Wildlife Inc. volunteer Krista carpenter releases brown pelicans at the 63rd Street Boat ramp in holmes Beach. carpenter said one of the birds was rescued after attempting to enter the island Publix while seeking food from people, a behavior often learned by pelicans that are fed by humans. after treatment and rehabilitation at the rescue, the birds were returned to the wild. Islander Photo: robert anderson

Defendants move for dismissal of 2 vacation rental lawsuits

By ryan Paice Islander reporter

Two lawsuits against island vacation rental owners are facing their first challenge.

Two groups of defendants filed motions Feb. 23 to dismiss lawsuits launched by plaintiffs StayTerra Vacations, Prime Vacations and GSP Prime Holdings.

The lawsuits boil down to claims that the original founders and owners of a vacation rental management business referred to as “Prime Business” schemed to undermine an agreement following the September 2024 sale of the business.

Prime Business comprises six brands: AMI Locals, Anna Maria Island Accommodations, Anna Maria Vacations, Siesta Key Luxury Property Rentals, Lido Key Vacations and Tropical Sands Vacations.

Prime Business was founded and originally owned by local developer Shawn Kaleta and real estate investor Roman Eckert. They indirectly owned or controlled about 130 of Prime’s roughly 1,110 vacation rental properties.

New York-based principal investment firm Garnett Stations Partners purchased a majority stake in the company for $105 million through StayTerra Vacations and GSP Prime Holdings, which is why they are listed as plaintiffs.

The deal granted the business the exclusive right to collect management fees for its properties for at least seven years.

However, both of StayTerra’s lawsuits allege a “deliberate, bad faith scheme to eviscerate the benefit of the bargain,” by a pair of ownership groups involved with the properties.

One lawsuit names 12 defendants:

• Bradenton resident Kiri Stewart and six LLCs she manages, including Magnolia Cottages, 224 Chilson Ave., 128 Fillmore, 9801 Gulf Dr., 243 South Harbor Dr. and 48 Street;

• Five LLCs managed by Kaleta, including 2210 Avenue A, 2403 Avenue C, 103 Park Ave. AMI, 6548 Sabal Dr. and 518 Spring.

The other lawsuit lists 23 defendants:

• Anna Maria resident Jennifer Warren-Kaleta, Shawn Kaleta’s ex-wife;

• AMI Premier Properties, for which Warren-

Kaleta is the listed manager and registered agent;

• 18 property-specific LLCs managed by WarrenKaleta, including 91 Avenida Veneccia, Palmetto Panama, RE 106 9th, 107 Maple Ave, 117 Palm Ave, 3605 Gulf Dr, 107 Palm Ave, 112 Palm Ave, 3602 6th, Island Savvy Ventures, 209 65th, 100 73rd, 216 Palmetto Ave, 305 Magnolia, 9405 Gulf Drive, 303 Pine, Gulf View Beach House and 307 Magnolia;

• Three property-specific LLCs managed by Kaleta, including 104 9th St. SK, 301 22nd and 741 Jacaranda.

In both cases, StayTerra alleged that the ownership groups completed transfer agreements in a “shadow listing” scheme to collect rental management fees for the involved properties despite the purchase agreement giving StayTerra exclusive rights to collect management fees.

StayTerra is seeking $5 million in damages from the defendants in the Stewart lawsuit and $9 million in damages from the defendants in the Warren-Kaleta case, in addition to attorneys’ fees. It also asked the court to grant temporary restraining orders, preliminary injunctions and permanent injunctions “prohibiting defendants from continuing to engage in unfair and deceptive trade practices” moving forward.

However, the defendants moved to dismiss both cases on the grounds that the agreement does not prohibit their actions.

“This is a commercial dispute governed by a written agreement. The problem for plaintiffs is that the agreement they attach does not say what they need it to say. The Master Property Management Agreement (“PMA”) defines who is bound and what conduct is prohibited. It does not identify the LLC defendants as contracting parties. It does not prohibit the sale of ownership interests. It does not bar self-management. Yet plaintiffs ask this court to recognize those non-existent obligations and hold non-parties liable for breaching them,” the motions read.

The motions argue that:

• The LLC defendants are not bound by the PMA and that StayTerra’s complaint fails to bind Kaleta or Eckert to any specific LLC defendant;

• The alleged conduct is permitted by the PMA;

• StayTerra and GSP lack standing to assert breach

Submit your social news, weddings, anniversaries, births, travel photos, fishing, sports and event news and photos to news@islander.org.

claims because they are not parties to the PMA;

• The plaintiffs’ tortious interference claims are legally deficient;

• StayTerra’s unfair competition claim fails since no deceptive act is identified and the claim is duplicative of the breach of contract claim.

“The written PMA controls this dispute — and it does not support plaintiffs’ claims,” the motions read. “Because the defects in the complaint are legal — not technical — and cannot be cured without contradicting the agreements plaintiffs rely upon, dismissal with prejudice of the complaint in its entirety is required.” No hearings had been scheduled for either case as of March 6, according to the Manatee County Clerk of the Circuit Court.

Streetlife

Island police reports

By robert anderson and ryan Paice

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

Anna Maria

Feb. 21, 100 S. Bay Blvd., marine/fire. An MCSO deputy responded to the Anna Maria City Pier after a caller reported a barrel on a construction barge caught fire. Fire units were dispatched to assist and the situation was investigated. No injuries were reported.

Feb. 21, 877 N. Shore Drive, Rod & Reel Resort, disturbance. A deputy was dispatched to a report that three people had entered a hot tub without permission and began arguing with the complainant when asked where they were staying. The individuals left before the MCSO arrived.

Bradenton Beach

No new reports.

Cortez

No new reports.

Holmes Beach

March 3, 2600 block of Gulf Drive, recovered property. An officer located a motorist pinged by the city’s license plate recognition system for using a stolen license plate. The officer conducted a traffic stop and spoke to the driver, who admitted there was drug paraphernalia inside the vehicle. The officer confiscated the stolen plate and paraphernalia and put them in storage at the HBPD.

Call 911 in an emergency.

Tiki & Kitty’s

Tiki and Kitty are looking forward to a dreamy springlike day for a shopping trip to their favorite shops, boutiques and vintage markets!

Miss us? WE MISS YOU AMI!

Check out Cat’s Meow, an 8,000 square-foot marketplace where vendors offer coastal, cottage, beach, antique, boho, midcentury modern and other home decor styles. They also offer vintage to fine jewelry and vintage vinyl records.

You might want to lace up your skates, as this large, former skating rink has plenty to offer bargain hunters and anyone seeking antiques and unique decor.

Next to Cat’s Meow, there’s Blue Flamingo , another “must stop.” They are always festive but now the collection includes the Gathering Place and the Sea Hagg, formerly in Cortez. They have three large buildings filled with assorted quirky, whimsy, florals and vintage treasures and nauticals, hip and trendy upcycled and repurposed goods, furniture and decor, garden features, candles, jewelry and work by local artisans, as well as Dixie Belle paints.

Your place for fun, funky quirky!

Belle Paint, Fun Gifts & More!

Featuring “The Sea Hagg” collection. theblueflamingo.biz

Don’t miss the once-a-month outdoor Vintage Flea market at Blue Flamingo — with the next event March 8.

Scavengers Marketplace has plenty of vendors to capture your wallet at the Palmetto store, 2100 U.S. 301. There’s always something new to entice you among the vendors’ eclectic collections.

FYI: Scavengers carries Fusion Paints.

The Vintage Vine Market is a favorite for Tiki and Kitty, who love the fine vintage wares and items with a whimsical twist at this store in historic Old Manatee along the newest section of the Bradenton Riverwalk. The location in the 1910 building oozes charm. And they take select consignments by appointment.

And don’t forget, tell people you meet along the way, “The Islander sent me.”

Endless Season AMI TOURISM:

January tourist tax collections

January 2022: $2,671,152

January 2023: $2,857,809

January 2024: $2,646,679

January 2025: $2,528,447

January 2026: $3,080,959

Source: Manatee county Tax collector

January tourist tax tops $3M

By Lisa Neff Islander Editor

At AMI check-in desks and cash registers in midMarch, the focus is on springing into a new season — spring break.

Meanwhile, the Manatee County Tax Collector’s office is still tallying up winter receipts for tourist dollars.

The tax collector March 3 released January 2026 collection numbers for the tourist development tax or bed tax — the 6% collected on accommodation rentals of six months or less.

The fourth month of the 2025-26 fiscal year generated $3,080,959 in tourist development taxes in the county.

The amount is 21.85% more than the $2,528,447 collected in January 2025.

And for every month this fiscal year, which began Oct. 1, 2025, the tourist tax revenues were 21.85% to 36.7% higher than the 2024-25 collections as the county continued to recover from the damages and disruptions caused by hurricanes Debby, Helene and Milton.

Holmes Beach topped collections on Anna Maria Island in January, generating $591,221 or 19.19% of the countywide total.

Anna Maria accounted for 16.8% of the collections, bringing in $517,664, and Bradenton Beach generated $118,930 or 3.86% of the total.

Other numbers for January:

• Unincorporated Manatee County generated $1,327,922 or 43.1% of the total.

• Bradenton generated $254,365 or 8.26% of the total.

• Longboat Key generated $186,442 or 6.05%.

• Palmetto generated $84,483 or 2.74%.

The collection fee or commission on the tax is 3%, so the net collection in January was $2,988,530.

The state requires the county to use the resort tax revenues to boost and develop tourism. Local tourist tax revenue goes to the Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau and the Bradenton Area Convention Center, Realize Bradenton, the Pittsburgh Pirates and other projects and services, such as beach renourishment and the island ferry.

The county tourist development council recommends how to spend the money to the county commission, which sets the annual spending budget.

The tax collector will release February numbers in early April.

RoadWatch

Eyes on the road

State Road 64/Anna Maria Island Bridge: The Manatee Avenue Water Main Intracoastal Crossing underwater project is underway at the bridge, requiring temporary lane closures. Info: www.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 into April, with periodic lane closures in the area of 55th and 56th streets, 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.

Anna Maria sets 2026 vacation rental fees

By ryan Paice Islander reporter

Vacation rental registration fees will be a little more affordable in Anna Maria starting in April.

City commissioners unanimously voted Feb. 26 to approve a resolution setting fees for April 1-March 31, 2027, at several dollars below the current fee.

State law allows the city to collect fees to cover the costs of administering, monitoring and enforcing its vacation rental ordinance.

The fees are calculated to cover costs, not generate profit, so they vary year to year and must be approved by the city commission.

The current fee is $104.78 per occupant allowed

by municipal code.

The new fee will be $100.20 per allowed occupant, a $4.58 decrease from the current rate.

The owner of a property with a maximum occupancy of four people will pay $400.80 to register it as a vacation rental, as opposed to $419.12 now.

The city had 648 registered vacation rental properties by the end of 2025.

Vacation rental owners can register their properties by paying the fee and submitting documentation — such as a transient public lodging establishment license with the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation — via the city’s website, cityofannamaria.com.

LBK roundabout project moves toward construction

By robert anderson Islander reporter

Plans to build a roundabout at Broadway Street and Gulf of Mexico Drive on the north end of Longboat Key are advancing as state transportation officials finalize design and permitting.

The intersection sits just south of the Longboat Pass Bridge, where Broadway Street meets Gulf of Mexico Drive, a gateway between Longboat Key and Anna Maria Island that carries heavy seasonal traffic.

“This roundabout has been in the works for maybe 10 years,” Longboat Key Mayor Ken Schneier said in a March 3 interview with The Islander. “People in the north end, especially in the village, thought that it was an unsafe intersection, and it is a little bit of a blind turn there.”

The Florida Department of Transportation, which maintains Gulf of Mexico Drive as State Road 789, is leading the project and funding most of the work.

According to LBK engineer Jennifer Fehrs, the DOT has budgeted about $8.3 million for construction and environmental mitigation.

“Originally planned as a roundabout project only, the project has expanded to include about 2,000 feet of full, complete street corridor improvements,” Fehrs wrote in a March 3 email. The work will include an expanded multi-use trail along the east side of the roadway.

The roundabout is intended to improve safety for drivers, cyclists and pedestrians.

“A roundabout at Broadway Street creates safer vehicular turning movements, slows vehicles down coming to and from the bridge and creates safer bicycle and pedestrian crossings,” Fehrs wrote.

The project is being designed by the Sarasota engineering firm Kimley-Horn.

Schneier said the project had to be redesigned

a rendering shows the proposed Broadway Street roundabout and roadway improvements.

about a year and a half ago after DOT engineers determined the roadway near the intersection was too steeply graded for a roundabout. The bridge approach includes a super-elevated section, a banking of the roadway used to help vehicles navigate the curve, that engineers said would need to be flattened before a roundabout could be safely constructed.

The DOT later agreed to fund the majority of the project’s construction costs. Flattening the roadway required engineers to reevaluate drainage patterns, expanding the project’s scope and footprint.

As of a Feb. 26 project meeting between the town, DOT and firm Kimley-Horn, final design work was nearing completion while permitting continues. Transportation planners are targeting a construction bid letting in September, with a notice to proceed anticipated in January 2027.

The project is expected to take about 450 days to build.

The 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. Islander Photo: Lisa Neff

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 at various intersections and bridges, show “real-time” traffic conditions at smarttrafficinfo.org.

— Lisa Neff

KRC golf, horseshoe news tops week in sports

by Kevin P. Cassidy Islander Reporter

Golf action at the Key Royale Club in Holmes Beach got started March 2 with the men’s weekly modified-Stableford system match combined with a skin’s game.

First place was shared by Jim Bailey, Joe Coyne, Charlie Porter and Ron Vandeman who all carded plus-5s. Bailey, Bob Rowley, Peter Solleveld and Al Waal each won skins.

The women played a nine-hole individual-low-net match in two flights on March 3 that saw Lisa Edmonds fire a 5-under-par 27 to to win Flight A while holding off second-place finisher Helen Pollock. Pollock, who had a chipin birdie on the fifth hole, took second place with a 4-under-par 28, while Jana Samuels was alone in third at 1-over-par 33.

Gloria LaDue captured first place in Flight B with a 3-under-par 29, one shot better than second-place finisher Billie Jean Pinson. Judy Menchek and Jan Turner tied for third place at 1-under-par 31.

Other noteworthy shots included a birdie by Rene Chapman on the hole No. 1 and chipins by Leigh Brittain, Margrit Layh and Gloria LaDue.

Members played an 18-hole scramble/ramble combo on March 5 to close out the week that was organized golf at the club.

The team of Tony Donnelly, Steve O’Neil and Deb and Dave Richardson matched the 5-over-par 69 carded by the team of Chuck Patrick, Larry Pippel, Jana Samuels and Peter Solleveld to finish in a tie for first place.

Horseshoe news

Three teams emerged from pool play with 3-0 records and settled things in a playoff during March

The team of Tim Sofran and Tom Anderton drew the lucky bye into the final and watched as Gersey Fernandes and Bo LaMura eliminated Steve Doyle and Tom Farrington 26-8.

The finals saw Sofran and Anderton cruise to a 21-11 win over Fernandes and LaMura to win the day’s proceedings.

Two teams advanced to the playoffs during the

Winner winner!

Gloria MacDonald of Kansas celebrates a winning round Feb. 26 during bingo night at the Annie Silver Community Center, 103 23rd St. N., bradenton beach. The center also hosts monthly dinners and other social activities. Weekly bingo draws a mix of locals and winter visitors to the city-run facility on Anna Maria Island. The center also hosts monthly dinners and other social activities.

bingo night emcee Jim Hassett calls numbers Feb. 26 during at the Annie Silver Community Center in bradenton beach. Hassett, a center member, leads the popular weekly event, which brings together community members and seasonal guests for an evening of games and fellowship. Islander Photo: Robert Anderson

March 7 games that saw Tom Farrington walk his way to the winner’s circle with a 21-7 victory over Billy Silver and Bob Brown.

Play gets underway at 9 a.m. Wednesdaya and Saturdaya in Anna Maria at the 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.

Of note this week

This week’s community center reporting was delayed past press time for The Islander by staff at the Center of Anna Maria Island due to an event that apparently called for everyone to pitch in.

See you next week.

Cortez fishing festival nets a win

by Robert Anderson Islander Reporter

The Florida Institute for Saltwater Heritage board says this year’s Cortez Commercial Fishing Festival marked a strong return to form after last year’s stormimpacted event, with attendance and revenue rebounding.

FISH treasurer Jane von Hahmann delivered the festival’s financial report during a March 2 board meeting at the Cortez Village Historical Society Cultural Center, saying preliminary figures show the annual festival netted about $100,000.

“From a dollar standpoint right now, we are just over $100,000 net,” von Hahmann said. “However, I think we have a few more bills to cover, so we will probably be just under $100,000.”

Von Hahmann said remaining expenses were minor, under $2,000.

She said favorable weather and strong attendance helped make the two-day festival, held on the waterfront in the village Feb. 14-15, a success.

“Either way, we were once again blessed with two beautiful days and a great turnout,” von Hahmann said.

Attendance numbers reflected the rebound — by about 47%. About 12,500 people attended this year’s

festival, compared with 8,500 in 2025.

The 2025 festival was impacted by hurricanes Helene and Milton, which hit in fall 2024 and disrupted life and business in the area for months. In addition to lingering recovery impacts, the 2025 festival experienced a partial rainout on the second day that reduced attendance and vendor activity.

Robinson Preserve Twilight race returns March 27

The 18th annual Robinson Preserve Twilight 5K and 10K Run/Walk is set for Friday, March 27, at Robinson Preserve in northwest Bradenton.

All registered participants — including Kids Dash competitors — will receive a chip-timed race bib, custom finisher’s medal, commemorative shirt and complimentary dinner and beverages at the post-race party.

Runners must be at least 10 years old to com-

Moose hosts 6th annual Pig Roast

Dave and Shirley bingel of Cortez enjoy plates of barbecue ribs, coleslaw and baked beans during the Anna Maria Island Moose Lodge’s sixth annual Pig Roast, held March 7 at the Anna Maria Island Moose Lodge 2188 in bradenton beach. The annual event drew members and guests for food and fellowship. Islander Photos: Robert Anderson

pete in the 5K or 10K distances, and children 4 and under must remain in a stroller on course.

Beyond the racing, the event carries meaningful stakes off the course.

The Big Bill Foundation will award $5,000 secondary education scholarships to students who have battled or are currently battling childhood cancer.

Registration is online at raceroster.com.

— Lisa Neff

Board members also reviewed logistical considerations following the 2026 festival, including traffic flow and vendor access.

Board member Cindy Rodgers said this year’s large crowds and delivery schedules created some congestion as vendors and supply trucks navigated the festival footprint, and volunteers stepped up to direct vehicles.

The board discussed adjustments to traffic coordination and vendor deliveries for 2027.

FISH’s festival highlights the working waterfront and commercial fishing fleets that have sustained Cortez for generations. The festival also emphasizes seafood harvested from local waters and served on tables near and far.

The village traces its roots to fishing families who migrated south from coastal North Carolina in the late 1800s, settling along Sarasota Bay in an area long known locally as “The Kitchen” for its productive fishing grounds.

Built around mullet seining, fish houses and family-owned boats, Cortez remains one of Florida’s last communities where commercial fishing is generational.

Members of the FISH board and scores of volunteers spend much of the year planning and coordinating the event.

“We do work really hard to put on the best party with a purpose in the area and this year we were blessed, once again, with great weather, great attendance, food, artists and entertainment,” von Hahmann said. “So it was worth all the hard work to see how much FISH and Cortez mean to people. We are very grateful for all the volunteers and support for the festival. And we’ll be back for the 45th in February 2027.”

Live, artificial baits work for hookups as water/air temps rise

by Capt. Danny Stasny Islander Reporter

With temperatures swinging upward, Anna Maria Island anglers are getting on the water to experience the onset of the springtime bite.

Water temps in the upper 60s to low 70s means inshore species — snook, redfish and trout — are going to be frequenting the grass fl ats in search of a meal. Water temps are still slightly cool, but if we stay on this warm daytime trend, we should see increasing action as the weeks progress. Live shiners as bait work well as water warms and greater concentrations of fish move to the flats. Artificials also are an option as the fish are hungry and motivated to strike. Top water plugs are a good option if you’re hunting for big trout and even snook. And soft plastics will get the job done for both species and, as a bonus, will trigger a strike from redfish.

And don’t forget: You can put on your flip-flops and head to the beach to fish. Species like pompano, whiting, black drum and sheepshead can be had with live shrimp as bait. Small jigs tipped with shrimp are effective, plus they give you something to do while waiting for a bite. Walking the beach and casting jigs can result in quite a bit of action.

Don’t forget, even if you’re fishing the beach, you need a fishing license. Both residents and non-residents are required to have at least a shoreline license when fishing from the beach.

Finally, moving offshore, red grouper seem to be the best action for those wanting to pull on a big fish and bring home some dinner. Both live and frozen baits are working in depths of 100 feet or more. Mangrove snapper and lane snapper are being caught, as well as some amberjack.

On my Just Reel charters, I’m still catching sheepshead over the reefs and wrecks in the Gulf of Mexico and in Tampa Bay. Live shrimp on a knocker rig are being devoured by these hungry sheepies as they begin

to spawn. Mixed in the sheepies bite are Key West grunts, flounder and a handful of juvenile groupers.

Spanish mackerel are present in these areas and they’re exploding on offerings of live shiners combined with a longshank hook.

Fishing along the Gulf beaches also is yielding action for my charters. Pompano, whiting, black drum and redfish are readily being caught on a cast of live shrimp.

Finally, working the flats is improving as the water temps rise, resulting in catches of spotted seatrout and snook on live shiners as bait.

Capt. David White says numerous snook are being caught by his anglers during afternoon tides on live

shiners as bait.

Dawn Olsen of Odessa poses with a 27-inch snook she caught March 5 while flats fishing with Capt. Danny Stasny of Just Reel Fishing Charters.

Some large trout and a few redfish are also mixed in with the snook bite for White’s guided trips. He said using shrimp as bait is still luring sheepshead to the hook while fishing over structure in Tampa Bay and as a bonus, he’s finding a mix of mangrove snapper and Key West grunts.

This week we say goodbye to longtime fi shing guide and Cortezian, Capt. James Zacharias. He was among “the finest kind,” during an era when guided fishing trips were peaking in our waters.

Capt. Zack died March 5.

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

beachgoers walk along the shoreline at bean Point on Anna Maria Island in the early morning hours of March 3, following a total lunar eclipse.

atmosphere and casting a

Dolphin researchers study prey fish numbers

The Sarasota Dolphin Research Program conducts seasonal “prey fish” surveys across Sarasota Bay’s shallow seagrass meadows.

SDRP conducts 10 seine-net sets per month during January-March and 10 per month during June-September.

Fish are brought aboard, identifi ed by species, measured and then released alive.

In January, SDRP said, initial catches indicated typical bay-wide abundances, with sets averaging 125.4 total fish and 95.2 dolphin-prey fish per set.

January’s mean catch was the highest for any

January in the past three years. The catches spanned a diverse range of species and sizes and, of 1,254 fish examined, 75.9% were identified as dolphin prey, driven largely by high numbers of pinfish.

February’s fi sh abundance increased by 54.7% month-over-month, with catches averaging 194.2 total fish per set and 160.2 dolphin-prey fish per set.

This past February saw the second-highest February mean catch recorded over the past six years.

Of the 1,942 fish captured, 82.4% were identified as dolphin prey — driven largely by pinfish.

— Lisa Neff

By Lisa Neff

Bird declines speeding up

Peer-reviewed science confirms what birders in the field have feared: the decline of bird populations across North America is accelerating.

A study published Feb. 26 in the journal Science finds the factor most closely associated with that acceleration is agricultural intensity.

The research was led by François Leroy and Petr Keil of the Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, with Marta A. Jarzyna of Ohio State University.

Drawing on data from 1,033 routes of the North American Breeding Bird Survey — a volunteer-driven monitoring program that has logged bird counts across the continent for decades — the researchers analyzed abundance trends for 261 species from 1987 to 2021.

Their methodology was rigorous. Using advanced Bayesian statistical modeling, the team corrected for imperfect detection and examined not only whether bird numbers were falling, but whether those declines were speeding up.

The study found an average loss of 304 birds per monitoring route over the 34-year study period — roughly 15% of the average 1987 abundance.

Nearly half of all species analyzed — 122 out of 261 — showed significant declines.

More alarming still, 63 of those declining species showed accelerating declines.

That means the losses are not leveling off. They are compounding year after year, like a debt that keeps growing.

Florida’s birds appear prominently in the study’s grimmer passages. The researchers identified Florida, Texas, Louisiana and Arizona as experiencing the most pronounced average declines per monitoring route on the continent.

The Eastern meadowlark — listed among the hardest-hit species — was once a routine sight across

the open fields just inland from here. Today it is cause for celebration when one appears.

Perhaps the study’s most important fi nding for policymakers is the geography of acceleration. While overall losses are greatest in southern and warmer regions, the places where declines are speeding up

most sharply lie in the Mid-Atlantic, the Midwest and California.

Those same regions also contain some of the continent’s most intensive agricultural landscapes — marked by high fertilizer use, heavy pesticide use and vast monoculture cropland.

Using machine-learning models to test multiple environmental variables, the researchers repeatedly found agricultural intensity to be the strongest predictor of accelerating decline.

Temperature change played a role as well. Warming amplifies ecological stress, the authors noted, particularly in agricultural landscapes where reduced vegetation cover increases heat exposure.

Still, the strongest statistical signal in the study remains the intensity of modern agriculture.

The authors caution that their findings are correlative rather than definitive proof of cause and effect. They call for controlled experimental studies to determine precisely how pesticides, fertilizers and landscape simplification may be driving the trend.

State offers tips for shorebird breeding season

With shorebird breeding and nesting season beginning in some parts of the state, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission in early March shared ways that people spending time along the coast can help.

This time of year, and through the summer, many shorebird and seabird species nest directly on beaches, where their eggs and chicks are camouflaged in the sand.

Meanwhile, colonies of wading birds, such as herons, will typically nest on mangrove islands off the coast.

Dates for waterbird breeding seasons can vary depending on the species and location within the state. While some waterbird species start nesting in parts of Florida as early as mid-February, others don’t start nesting until March or April.

As of The Islander press time March 4, Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring had not reported any shorebird breeding activity on local beaches.

To help nesting shorebirds, seabirds and wading birds, people can:

• Watch for protected nesting areas on the beach or coastal islands.

• Give nesting birds space and keep noise volumes low. Stay at least 300 feet away from nesting birds.

Getting too close to nesting birds can cause them to fly off, leaving vulnerable eggs and chicks exposed to dangerous elements and predators.

• Keep pets at home. Even the best-behaved dogs frighten shorebirds and can cause them to abandon their eggs and chicks.

• Stash any trash in proper trash or recycling bins. Garbage and food scraps attract predators, such as raccoons and crows, that prey on shorebird eggs and chicks. Litter on beaches and in the water can entangle birds, sea turtles and other wildlife.

• If fishing, dispose of used line properly, as it can be deadly to waterbirds, sea turtles and other wildlife.

For more information, go to myfwc.com/shorebirds.

—Lisa Neff

Taco takes top prize at inaugural Taste of the Island

The debut Taste of the Island competition drew five local eateries to the 38th annual Springfest — and the organizers says the contest is locked in for 2027.

The competition made its debut March 1 at Springfest, organized by the event host, Blue Ribbon Events, and held at city field in Holmes Beach.

Five restaurants competed for crowd votes, offering small plates priced $10 and below. gRub, 415 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, claimed the top prize with a $5 brisket taco that sold out an hour before the festival’s close.

The People’s Choice win came with $500 in prize money, a commemorative plaque and a trophy that gRub will hold until next year’s competition.

Rock n Eggroll finished second, serving an assortment of eggrolls and noodle dishes.

Poppos Taqueria offered chicken tacos at two for $10, while Top Sail Steamer offered a $10 steamer pot loaded with shrimp, kielbasa, corn, potatoes and cornbread.

Toasted Mango rounded out the field with a mango gazpacho at $3 and shrimp or mahi mahi tacos priced at two for $7.

Blue Ribbon Events CEO Danielle Lynch said the competition exceeded expectations for its first year.

All five restaurants confirmed their return for the 2027 edition of Taste of the Island, Blue Ribbon has slated for Sunday, March 7, 2027.

Blue Ribbon Events also announced that advance tickets for the food contest will go on sale ahead of next year’s event — a sign of the confidence the organization has in the contest.

The event was conceived as a way to spotlight island restaurants while giving attendees a reason to linger beyond the arts and crafts show, which ran Feb. 28-March 1.

Blue Ribbon’s next island event will be the Coquina Beach Art & Craft Show April 4–5.

For more information, email blueribboneventsllc@ gmail.com or call 231-350-8277.

— Lisa Neff

share isl biz news Send business news — operational changes, expansions and achievements — to news@islander.org. Include a contact name and phone number. Photos appreciated.

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

Merchant cooperation helps launch food truck

by Robert Anderson Islander Reporter

Island business owner Walter Loos plans to return to the Bradenton Beach business district with a food truck after hurricanes in 2024 forced the closure of several of his businesses.

Loos plans to open Drifter’s Paradise Grill March 13 in the parking lot at the Pines Trailer Park near Bridge Street. The truck’s service window will face the parking area of the Drift-In AMI at 120 Bridge St.

Customers will be able to access the truck through the Drift-In — which mostly serves cocktails and beer.

Loos told The Islander March 4 that the concept grew out of post-hurricane conversations with Drift owner Derek Williams.

Loos operated Island Scoop ice cream shop, Island Donut Company and Wilder’s Slice of AMI, a partnership with Ryan and Erin Wilder. Those businesses did not reopen following the 2024 hurricane damages.

Loos said the food truck represents a new way to reconnect with customers while continuing plans for future ventures. Drifter’s Paradise Grill will operate by way of a land lease with Pines Park Investors and serve Drift-In customers — with approval from Williams.

Bradenton Beach allows food trucks to operate in commercially zoned areas under a city ordinance that requires approval from nearby restaurants and com-

of outdoor arts and crafts show on the island. For more information about the events, go to blueribbonevent.com.

For professional real estate needs, call a TRUE ISLAND NATIVE, born and raised on AMI, selling the “Island Dream” for over 25 years, right here with her family.

Paradise Grill food truck on bridge Street on March 13. Islander

pliance with setback, inspection and safety requirements.

Loos said the menu will include breakfast 8-11 a.m., followed by a lunch and dinner menu served until about 8 p.m.

“Doughnuts did make the cut,” Loos said. “A lot of people got to know us through the doughnut shop, so we’re bringing a new version of doughnuts, more Hawaiian-style.”

He’ll also serve breakfast sandwiches, brisket and tacos.

Williams said island merchants have worked on recovery together since the storms.

“Walt had three businesses, all impacted by the hurricanes and unable to reopen,” Williams said.

Loos said the operation has city approval and complies with the food truck ordinance.

“It’ll be exciting to get back and be with some of our island family,” Loos said. “It’ll be exciting to be back on the island.”

Correction

To correct a spelling error in the Feb. 25 announcement in The Islander, Steve Rose and Lisa Sandwisch exchanged vows at a surprise wedding Feb. 21 at bortell’s Lounge in Anna Maria during a celebration hosted by Rose to mark the pending sale of the landmark bar.

• April 2, Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce business card exchange and scholarship awards, LaPensee Plumbing, Holmes Beach.

• May 8, AMI Chamber Golf Tournament, IMG Academy Golf Club, Bradenton. Send listings to calendar@islander.org

by Mike Sales

5-8 p.m. Monday; Ronald Headley 5-8 p.m. Tuesday. Wicked Cantina, 101 Seventh S. N., BB, wickedcantina.com, Ross David 6-9 p.m. Wednesday; Jason Hedges 6-9 p.m. Thursday; Hi Fi Drifter 2-5 p.m. and Ross David 6-9 p.m. Friday; Hi FI Drifters 2-5 p.m. and Drew Navy 6-9 p.m. Saturday; Hi Fi Drifters 2-5 p.m. and Chad Tallman 6-9 p.m. Sunday; Matthew McCartney 6-9 p.m. Monday; Ken Macy 6-9 p.m. Tuesday.

Who’s playing tonight!

Anna Maria ‘Isle’ goes Irish

If you like green beer with some Irish music, this is your week! Clancy’s Irish Sports Bar & Grill is putting on a plethora of St. Patrick’s Day festivities on March 17!

And don’t forget these hot spots: Mademoiselle Paris, 9906 Gulf Drive, AM, mademoiselleparis.com, Chuck Davis, 5:30-8:30 p.m. Friday, Saturday.

Harry’s Grill, 9903 Gulf Drive, AM, harrysgrillami.com. Pamela K Ward 6-8:30 p.m. Thursday, Friday, Saturday; Skip Eaton 6-8:30 p.m. Sunday; Steve Arvey & Deacon Gibson, 6-8:30 p.m. Monday; Scotty Yates 6-8:30 p.m. Tuesday.

Ugly Grouper, 5704 Marina Drive, HB, uglygrouper.com, Nathan Allen noon-3 p.m. and 5-8 p.m. Wednesday; Gulfcoastinlife noon-3 p.m. and Marko Coconut 5-8 p.m. Thursday; Charles Parker noon-3 p.m. and North Star 5-8 p.m. Friday; Kaptain Kurt noon-3 p.m. and Zion 5-8 p.m. Saturday; Scotty Mac noon-3 p.m. and Paul Dudrich 5-8 p.m. Sunday; Chad Tallman noon-3 p.m. and Miguel Lantigua 5-8 p.m. Monday; Marko Coconut noon-3 p.m. and Justin Layman 5-8 p.m. Tuesday.

Anna Maria Island Beach Cafe, 4000 Gulf Drive, HB, amibeachcafe.com. Scott Blum Jazz Quartet 5-8 p.m. Wednesday; Open Jam Band 5-8 p.m. Thursday; Mike Sales 5-8 p.m. Friday; Pamela Jean 5-8 p.m. Saturday; Harold Antoine 5-8 p.m. Sunday; Bobby Stillwell

Island Time Bar and Grill, 111 Gulf Drive S., BB, islandtimebarandgrill.com Rob Viola 6:30-9:30 p.m. Wednesday, Speakeasy 7-10 p.m. Thursday; High Rollers 7-10 p.m. Friday; Alan Grant Band 7-10 p.m. Saturday; Damon Earlewine 6:30-9:30 p.m. Sunday; Dos Macs 6:30-9:30 p.m. Monday; Brian McCarthy 6:309:30 p.m. Tuesday.

Coquina Beach Market, 1800 Gulf Drive S., BB, coquinabeachmarket.org, Mike Sales 10-2 p.m. Wednesday; Chuck Davis 10-2 p.m. Friday; TBA Sunday.

Swordfish Grill, 4628 119th St. W., Bradenton, swordfishgrillcortez.com, Tim Chandler 5-8 p.m. Wednesday; Ted Stevens 5-8 p.m. Thursday; Justin Layman 5-8 p.m. Friday; Tim Chandler noon-4 p.m. and Justin Layman 5-8 p.m. Saturday; Tim Chandler noon-4 p.m. and 5-8 p.m. Sunday; Stockton Brothers 5-8 p.m. Monday; Ted Stevens 5-8 p.m. Tuesday. Porkbelly’s Eatery and Catering, 9516 Cortez Road W., Bradenton, porkbellyseatery.com. Live music St. Patrick’s Day. Open mic with MillerTyme Trio 2:30-

5:30 p.m. Saturday. 88 Live Piano Bar, 6640 Cortez Road W., Bradenton. 88livebradenton.com. Westbound & Down 7-10 p.m. Wednesday; Billy Rice Band 7-10 p.m. Thursday; Dueling Pianos with Emily & Todd 8-11:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday; The Boomers Experience 6-9 p.m. Sunday; 88 Live Jam Band 7-10 p.m. Tuesday. Clancy’s Sports Bar & Grill, 6218 Cortez Road W., Bradenton. clancysirishsportspub.com. Rye Road 6-10 p.m. Thursday; Eric Von 6-10 p.m. Friday; Jack’d Up 5-9 p.m. Saturday; Dr. Dave Band 3-7 p.m. Sunday; St Paddy’s Day Bash All Day! Tuesday, March 17. As always, be sure to say hi, if you wind up where I’m playing!

— Mike Sales, singer/songwriter, MikeSalesMusic.com

Vacationing on, about AMI?

Visiting Anna Maria Island? We’d love to see the island through your eyes.

The Islander invites vacationers to share photos taken at local restaurants, shops, beaches and favorite hangouts across Anna Maria, Holmes Beach, Bradenton Beach and Cortez.

Submit photos to news@islander.org with the names of people pictured, the location and date, city of residence and a name and contact email. Be a part of the island story.

ITEMS FOR SALE

WHITE WICKER THREE-drawer dresser and shelf with swivel TV top. $95. 816-721-5525.

LARGE VINTAGE SHELL pendant light, $100, wood drop-leaf table, $75, glass round table four rattan chairs, $475, two marble countertops, $100 each, in-wall cabinet, six shelves, $100. 804-3637963.

WHITE CRIB AND mattress including bedding, $45. High chair, $30. 570-704-8486.

BLACK AND RED roll suitcases, $40 each and carry-on suitcases, $15 each, Tigerxbang oar/ paddle for outdoors, $45. 941-920-2494.

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

FREEBIE ITEMS FOR SALE

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

ANNOUNCEMENTS

BRIDGE GAMES AT Roser Church on Fridays at noon until the end of March, 2026.

LOOKING FOR FRANK from Island Print? He’s available by call or text 941-704-8108. Email frankhtc.fw@gmail.com

TRANSPORTATION

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

BOATS & BOATING

HAVe A bOAT and wanna catch more fish, better bait or learn the water? 50-year local fisherman, your boat, my knowledge. Captain Chris, 941-896-2915.

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

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

WeLCOMe AbOARD JOYFISH Charters for private fishing, sunset cruises, and dolphin watching. Check out joyfishcharters.com or follow us on Facebook. Call to reserve, 941840-3181.

FOR SALE: 2021 Road King Model RKAL 19 boat trailer. $2,500. 919-830-5139.

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-boat-rentals

HELP WANTED

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

VENDOR NEEDS SETUP person on Sundays. Must have a large SUV or truck to carry tents and equipment from storage. Setup 7:30 a.m., breakdown 2 p.m. $100. Call 941-2090497.

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

KIDS FOR HIRE

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

SERVICES

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

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

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

SERVICES Continued

BICYCLE REPAIRS: Just4Fun at 5358 Gulf Drive can do most any bicycle repair at a reasonable cost. Pick-up and delivery available. 941-8967884.

API’S DRYWALL REPAIR: I look forward to servicing your drywall repair needs. Call 941-5248067 to schedule an appointment.

PC OR T e CH 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 941404-9163.

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 DIRTY WINDOWS? Free estimates/ insured. Five-star customer service rating. “We want to earn your business. Downeast Window Cleaning, 207-852-6163.

LOOKING FOR SOMeONe who needs me: 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.

ACHAUFF e R4U FOR TRANSPORTATION anywhere in Florida. Properly insured and over 40 years in b radenton. Dennis, 941812-5930.

HOM e WATCH e R: WH e N 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.

More ads = more readers in The Islander.

SERVICES Continued

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

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

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

PROFESSIONAL WINDOW CLEANING: Downeast Window Cleaning. Insured/free estimates. 207-852-6163.

BUSINESS-TO-BUSINESS JD’s Window Cleaning looking for storefront jobs. I make dirty windows sparkling clean. 941-920-3840.

BEACH SERVICE air conditioning, heat, refrigeration. Call Bill Eller, 941-720-7411. Residential, call Nate, 941-524-2248. CAC184228.

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

LAWN & GARDEN

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

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

HOME IMPROVEMENT

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

GRIFFIN’S HOM e IMPROV e M e NTS 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 941-705-5293.

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 P e RKINS PAINTING LLC. Interior/exterior/pressure washing. Island references. dperkinspaint@hotmail.com. 941705-7096.

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.

GORILLA DRYWALL R e PAIR LLC. Let’s solve your drywall problems together. Give us a call at 941-286-0607.

More ads = more readers in The Islander.

SERVICES Continued

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, 1-616-2048822.

RETIRED LIFETIME PAINTER: Works alone, insured. $27/hour. 502-817-6786.

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

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

RENTALS

ANNA MARIA GULF beachfront vacation rentals. One- two- and three-bedroom units, all beachfront. www.amiparadise.com. 941-778-3143.

AVAILABLE NOW AND season: 1BR/1BA, sevennight minimum. carlesvacationrentals.com Special rates are available. 941-807-1405.

PERICO ISLAND PATIO home: 3BR/2BA, privacy wall/gate, two-car garage, single floor, high ceilings, screened lanai. Call or text Alison, 859-7716423.

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, first, last and security. Wagner Realty, 941778-2246.

CENTRAL HOLMES BEACH, 3BR/2BA completely remodeled, walk to beach, school, trolley, shopping. Annual, $2,595/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, 941-5450808 or email connectmgllc@gmail.com

ANNUAL HOLMES BEACH duplex. 2BR/2BA, unfurnished, elevated, covered parking. $2,500/ month. 941-779-7822

REAL ESTATE

WINNI e MCHAL e , R e ALTOR, 941-5046146. Dalton Wade Real estate. You need an aggressive and experienced Realtor in today’s market! Selling island homes, Sarasota and b radenton areas. Multi-milliondollar producer! “Selling Homes - Making Dreams Come True.”

NEW LOW, LOW price: Upgraded 2BR/2BA condo being sold nicely furnished. Heated pool and spa. Minutes to beach. $210,000. Call agent direct to see. Real Estate Mart, 941-356-1456.

ATTENTION GOLFERS: COME see the pearl of the course. Modern 2BR/2BA plus office/den, twocar garage. Panoramic view of lake and course from private, caged pool. $580,000. Call agent direct, Real Estate Mart, 941-356-1456.

NORTHWEST BRADENTON: CUSTOM-built Mediterranean-style home. 2BR/2BA, spacious great room with open kitchen. Features two-car garage, community pool and spa. Boat docks on Manatee River. $795,000. Real Estate Mart, 941356-1456.

SARASOTA BAY R/V park: 1BR/1BA cabin, 12 Sea Grape. 1.5

bRADeNTON CONDO FOR sale: Newly updated, fully furnished, 2bR/2bA, 1,100 sf. Carport, patio and docking available. $219,000. Call 941-7049432.

PALMA SOLA SHOR e S: Land-owned park. 55 and older community. Manufactured home, 2bR/2 bA 1,058 sf. Fully furnished. Four miles from AMI. $245,000. 443-523-2973.

Place classified ads online by 11 a.m. Monday at islander.org.