The Islander Newspaper E-Edition Wednesday, March, 18, 2026

May the road rise to meet you in the AMI St. Pat’s Parade!

aBoVe: the crew of duncan real estate toss beads to spectators March 15 during the center of anna Maria island st. Patrick’s day Parade in holmes Beach. the parade traveled from holmes Beach city hall to the community center, 407 Magnolia ave., anna Maria. for more parade fun, see page 7. islander Photos: robert anderson

Terra Ceia protection bill passes House

By robert anderson islander reporter

Florida lawmakers have approved a coastal protection measure that supporters say could block a proposed cruise port near Terra Ceia, though at least one expert warns the legislation may still allow other large-scale development next to the aquatic preserve.

The Terra Ceia debate centers on the 328-acre Knott-Cowen tract near the mouth of Tampa Bay, where developers SSA Marine and Slip Knott LLC have proposed a terminal for cruise ships too tall to pass beneath the Sunshine Skyway Bridge’s 180-foot vertical clearance.

The Knott-Cowen tract is adjacent to the protected Terra Ceia Aquatic Preserve, which covers about 21,736 acres in northwest Manatee County, stretching from near Little Redfish Creek at Port Manatee to Emerson Point on Snead Island, where its seagrass flats and tidal creeks serve as key nursery habitat for marine life in lower Tampa Bay.

Public opposition has grown quickly, prompting the formation of People Protecting Terra Ceia Aquatic Preserve, a grassroots coalition of residents, fishermen and environmental advocates, as well as rallies, social media campaigns and legislative action during the 2026 session.

Senate Bill 302, a coastal resiliency measure spon-

sored by state Sen. Ileana Garcia, R-Miami, passed the Senate with an amendment by state Sen. Jim Boyd, R-Bradenton, addressing the aquatic preserve.

The Florida House unanimously passed the measure March 10, sending the bill to Gov. Ron DeSantis. If enacted, the measure would take effect July 1.

SB 302 would expand nature-based coastal protection strategies statewide and direct the Florida Department of Environmental Protection to develop shoreline resilience guidelines. The amendment, specific to the Terra Ceia Aquatic Preserve, would restrict dredging and filling while allowing projects such as marinas, boat ramps, piers, docks and related navigation channels and access roads if officials determine the projects would not harm water quality or the preserve’s ecological value.

Boyd has said his goal with the amendment would be to protect the area surrounding Terra Ceia. In a Feb. 3 opinion column in the Tampa Bay Times, he wrote, “Preserving Rattlesnake Key, Knott-Cowen and the surrounding properties is a critical mission. And I’m going to do everything I can to protect it.”

State Rep. Will Robinson Jr., R-Bradenton, in a floor speech advocating for the protection measure, said, “This is one of the most pristine areas in our state, and we don’t need mega cruise ships in this area.”

WMFR tax referendum fails … again

By ryan Paice islander reporter

The West Manatee Fire Rescue District’s latest attempt at gaining ad valorem authority has failed.

District voters cast 3,325 ballots in the March 10 special election on a referendum that would have given WMFR the authority to levy and collect annual ad valorem taxes not to exceed 1 mill.

The district covers Anna Maria Island and west Bradenton, including the village of Cortez.

The district currently levies non-ad valorem fire assessment fees that consist of a residential or commercial base rate plus additional charges for square footage.

It has pushed for decades to gain the authority to levy ad valorem taxes in an effort to increase revenues, but every attempt has failed.

Despite its lack of past success, the district took another stab at it with this year’s referendum, which failed with 1,461, or 43.94%, votes to approve and 1,864, or 56.06%, votes to reject.

With 19,020 registered voters throughout the district’s 10 precincts, the 3,325 ballots represent a 17.48% turnout rate.

The three island precincts — precincts 301, 305 and 307 — were the most proportionally active, with voter turnout rates of 25.3%, 30% and 23.3%, respectively. No other precinct had a turnout rate higher than 19.3%. That reflects 192 votes in precinct 301, which covers Anna Maria, 653 votes in precinct 305, which

Please, see WMFR vote, Page 2

A classroom like no other second-grade students and staff from anna Maria elementary on March 6 wade behind the school into anna Maria sound during an estuary study with around the Bend nature tours. the hands-on lesson allowed students to collect and observe marine life using dip nets. aMe and other Manatee county schools are on spring break through March 20. islander courtesy Photo

While many port opponents have viewed the amendment as a win, Tom Glancy said he sees it as a “Trojan horse.”

Glancy, a marine permitting specialist from Terra Ceia who has emerged as a leading voice among residents tracking the issue, holds a master’s degree in marine biology from the University of Florida. He worked for the Florida Department of Environmental Protection 2002-12 in state lands and environmental resource permitting, then spent more than a decade in marine construction permitting before launching an environmental consulting firm.

“I’ve been reading these rules and been reviewing this stuff from both sides of the table for the last 25 years,” Glancy said March 12.

“It looks on the surface as if this was done to protect the aquatic preserve from this big, supposed boogeyman of the cruise port, but we don’t know for sure that they were ever really planning on doing that,” he said.

The cruise port concept surfaced publicly in January through conceptual materials tied to pre-application discussions with Manatee County involving the Knott-Cowen tract. which is zoned for general agriculture and residential single-family.

About Boyd’s amendment, Glancy said, “That language is intentional to open the door to commercial development.”

“If that monster really existed, that monster has probably been severely wounded,” he said of a port proposal and Boyd’s amendment. “But it created some very large open doors for development.”

The shallow seagrass flats and nursery habitat in the area make it vulnerable to dredging, boat traffic, turbidity, fuel pollution and long-term ecological damage.

“This is one of the very last places like this around, and it’s an extremely important estuary nursery,” Glancy said. “I think we’re just waiting to see what the next monster is that comes over the horizon and then prepare for battle.”

Public welcome to HB clean water workshop

The Holmes Beach Clean Water Ad Hoc Committee will host an Islanders 4 Clean Water workshop 9 a.m.-noon Wednesday, April 8, at city hall, 5801 Marina Drive.

The CWC was established in 2021 to act as an advisory board for the city commission and focus on community activity, philanthropy and government action to improve water quality in the area.

CWC chair Jennifer Miller said March 11 the workshop will feature speakers from the Tampa Bay and Sarasota Bay estuary programs, Suncoast Waterkeeper and the University of Florida.

The committee also invited island officials, as well as representatives from Mote Marine Laboratory and Keep Manatee Beautiful.

The workshop will be in a roundtable format with an agenda to guide the discussion. Its focus will be to gather feedback on the committee’s plans to support clean water efforts moving forward.

A livestream of the meeting can be viewed on the city’s website, holmesbeachfl.org, and people will also be able to participate via Zoom.

— ryan Paice

WMFR vote continued froM Page 1 covers Holmes Beach, and 113 votes in precinct 307, which covers Bradenton Beach.

Vote by mail ballots outnumbered Election Day ballots in all three precincts, as well as every other precinct that participated in the special election.

Proponents of the referendum said ad valorem revenue could be used to redevelop the old Bradenton Beach Fire Hall, which the district recently purchased, replace gear and improve training infrastructure.

However, the district did not have a set millage rate or spending plan heading into the election.

Now, it will have to shoulder the cost of the special election.

Assistant Supervisor of Elections Sharon Stief told The Islander March 12 that the election was estimated to cost about $40,000 but a final cost was projected to be lower. Stief said the district would pay the entirety of that cost.

Following the election, WMFR issued a news release about the results.

“District officials thank residents for participating in the election and emphasize their continued commitment to serving the community,” the release stated. “West Manatee Fire Rescue will continue evaluating how best to meet the district’s evolving fire protection and emergency service needs while maintaining its commitment to providing the highest quality service to the community.”

The news release also quoted Fire Chief Ben Rigney as saying, “We respect the decision of our voters and appreciate everyone who took the time to participate in this important conversation about our community’s future. Regardless of the outcome, our mission remains the same: to provide professional services essential to the safety and well-being of the community.”

Obituary

Linda Lou Cramer

Linda Lou Cramer, 64, formerly of Anna Maria, died Jan. 22 in Bradenton.

A beloved mother, grandmother, community member and friend, she was born Feb. 17, 1961, in Portage, Wisconsin, to Leo Blau and Charlotte (Smith) Blau.

After graduating Portage High School in 1979, she moved to Florida.

Anna Maria prepares review of spring break parking

No better time to analyze parking than during the craziness of spring break.

Anna Maria Mayor Mark Short announced at a March 12 city commission meeting that staff was set to review parking throughout the municipality over spring break, which is the week of March 16-22 in Manatee County.

Short said the city receives a “huge” infl ow of traffic from beachgoers during the annual spring break, which creates a problematic parking situation.

“Our parking situation is like the Wild West,” he said. “I do believe we need to do something.”

Short said that spring break would be a good data point to evaluate parking for potential changes to address the congestion and safety issues it causes.

“We’re putting together ideas on if we do believe it is a serious problem … we may be coming back to the commission at a future date with some recommended temporary changes to parking,” he said.

Commissioner Christopher Arendt said he was happy the city was looking into the matter. He said congestion and safety issues were worst on roads where parking is allowed on both sides, leaving little room for pedestrians, bicyclists and motorists to share.

There was no public comment.

— ryan Paice

She served the city of Anna Maria as a commissioner from February 2001 until November 2006.

Anna Maria Mayor Mark Short texted The Islander March 13 that he planned to lower the U.S. Flag at city hall to half-mast March 17 in her honor.

She owned and operated a successful home renovation and painting business on Anna Maria Island for almost two decades.

One of her most memorable restorations was the Belle Haven Cottage, which now stands at the Anna Maria Island Historical Museum, where it can be toured. She helped orchestrate a move from Palmetto Avenue to the museum on learning it would be demolished, and it became a part of AMI history. The cottage

had originally been an old ice house on the City Pier that served the island fishing community. It was left in disarray before it was moved to Palmetto Avenue and Cramer rented the home for her family in the late 1980s. Her love brought it back to life and the house survived the 2024 hurricanes at the museum.

She was a devoted friend, active grandparent and adored mother.

The family extends a special thank you to her daughter, Jessi, for caring for her mother in her final days and to the team at Tidewell Hospice House in Bradenton.

A private family interment is planned in Wiscon-

holmes Beach. the property is owned by 3720 gulf drive llc, which is managed by Bradenton residents thomas harrisson and Burdette Parent Jr. the home was not substantially damaged by the 2024 storms, but has sat empty for years, according to holmes Beach director of development services chad Minor. no other permits for the property had been applied for as of March 12. islander

Wednesday: Dining Special, “Prime Roast Strip Loin” 5O% OFF Wines by the Glass

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

Anna Maria approves GSM Partners ownership change

By ryan Paice islander reporter

The Anna Maria City Pier — undergoing a partial rebuild — may not be the only thing that looks different on reopening.

The ownership of the City Pier Grill & Bait Shop will look a little different, too.

City commissioners unanimously voted March 12 to approve a request to change the ownership of GSM Partners, the remaining tenant on the pier’s T-end. Commissioner John Lynch was absent with excuse.

GSM originally comprised Brian Seymour, the owner of the Pine Avenue General Store; Victor Mattay, owner of Dips Ice Cream and Nick Graham, owner of Pine Avenue Bait and Tackle.

The company leased the building on the west side of the T-end and has operated the City Pier Grill & Bait Shop in that space since December 2020.

The lease agreement contained a provision requiring the city commission approval of any change to the corporate ownership.

Seymour, the managing member of GSM Partners, sent a letter March 9 to Mayor Mark Short requesting approval for a proposed ownership change. That proposal was to replace Graham and Mattay with brothers Benjamin Sato and Jason Sato as partners.

Benjamin Sato owns gRub Tropical BBQ at 415 Pine Ave.

Jason Sato co-owns Sato Real Estate, 519 Pine Ave., with his mother, Barbara.

Seymour wrote in his letter, “I have chosen to change the partnership and keep the partnership solely comprised of longtime Anna Maria residents and proven successful businesspeople who take a hands-on approach as I do to ensure success for our business and success for the city pier and provide a business that the City of Anna Maria can be proud of.”

While Seymour has expressed uncertainty that GSM Partners would renew its lease when it expires in December, his letter implies the ownership change may be geared toward reinforcing the company’s return to the pier.

“This change positions us with the means,

Thinking about a run?

The general election will include offices in Anna Maria, Bradenton Beach and Holmes Beach.

Seats up for election in 2026 include: mayor and two commission seats in Anna Maria, two commission seats in Bradenton Beach and mayor and two commission seats in Holmes Beach.

All the offices are two-year terms.

Candidate qualifying in the municipal races will take place in June.

resources, business experience and flexibility to build out and execute our ideas/business for the soon to be rebuilt city pier,” Seymour wrote.

Commissioner Gary McMullen moved to approve the ownership change. Commissioner Kathleen Morgan-Johnson seconded the motion, which passed.

There was no public comment.

In other matters…

City commissioners also:

• Unanimously voted to approve a variance to a 15-foot waterway setback requirement for the instal-

lation of a retaining wall at 853 North Shore Dr., with conditions;

• Unanimously voted to adopt an emergency ordinance amending city code to clarify that the purpose of commercial rental areas is for the rental of temporary shade structures, like cabanas;

• Unanimously voted to approve the first reading of an ordinance with the same clarifying language as the emergency ordinance so that the provision can be permanently incorporated into city code.

The commission will meet next at 10 a.m. Thursday, March 26, at city hall, 10005 Gulf Drive.

an angler fishes March 12 near the base of the anna Maria city Pier, where work rebuilding its destroyed walkway continues. islander Photo: robert anderson

Bids sought for City Pier T-end

By ryan Paice islander reporter

With two workshops of public input in hand, Anna Maria is starting to explore possibilities for the T-end of the city pier.

City commissioners reached consensus March 12 to issue two invitations to bid for remediating the T-end and opening the shell of the main building. Commissioner John Lynch was absent with excuse.

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 with better materials, like solid concrete pilings.

Work on the walkway is projected for completion in June, but additional work must be done before the pier can reopen.

That includes repairing the T-end platform, remediating the two buildings and gutting the bathrooms, which is planned to begin before the work on the walkway is finished.

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

City approves $195,400 change work order for pier rebuild

City commissioners unanimously voted March 12 to approve a consent agenda that included a $195,400 change work order with Tampa Bay Marine for additional work on the ongoing rebuild of the city pier.

The work will involve replacing about 452 linear feet of bearing pads on the pier’s T-end. It may also require the structure to be lifted so that replacement work can be completed.

— ryan Paice

The city hosted workshops on Jan. 27 and March 5 to gather public input regarding the future of the pier’s T-end.

The Jan. 27 workshop was focused on the question of how the T-end south building — which previously housed the Mote Marine Laboratory’s Marine Science Education and Outreach Center — could be used moving forward.

Multiple public commenters supported the idea of using the space for a full-service restaurant, as it did before the pier was damaged by Hurricane Irma and demolished in 2017.

The March 5 workshop was focused on the question of whether to retain the building’s existing closed shell, or open up the shell by replacing windows with sliding glass doors.

While public opinion was mixed on the matter, Mayor Mark Short opened the March 12 discussion by informing commissioners that the city will seek informal bids to open up the shell so the city could learn about the work’s potential cost.

“I think this gives us very valuable information to assist in that decision that will be made at a future date,” he said. “There will not be a commitment to do

Island leaders discuss transportation issues with MPO chief

By robert anderson islander reporter

Island leaders and regional officials discussed safety improvements, bridge studies and a new Florida Department of Transportation policy affecting future roadway projects March 9 at an Island Transportation Planning Organization meeting.

The ITPO includes a representative from each island city and Longboat Key and serves as an advisory group to the Sarasota-Manatee Metropolitan Planning Organization.

Island mayors John Chappie of Bradenton Beach, Judy Titsworth of Holmes Beach and Mark Short of Anna Maria attended the meeting with Sarasota-Manatee MPO executive director Ryan Brown, DOT representative Kristi Smith and Holmes Beach public works director and engineer Herb Raybourn.

During the meeting chaired by Chappie, who presently occupies a rotating ITPO seat on the MPO board, Brown updated attendees on transportation planning efforts and discussed a new state policy affecting project development and environment studies.

Brown said the policy aims to prevent costly planning efforts from lingering without construction fund-

ing. Under the policy, most PD&E studies must be completed within 18 months and construction funding identified within eight years of the study’s start.

A PD&E study is a key step in transportation development used to evaluate options, environmental impacts and conceptual design.

The policy could have implications for AMI projects, which often face high costs, limited rights of way and environmental constraints.

Island transportation concerns also were discussed, particularly congestion on Gulf Drive in Bradenton Beach between Bridge Street and Ninth Street North.

“This is really a serious situation that we have here that’s been going on a long time,” Chappie said. “The

Planning

traffic and the pedestrian traffic in this concentrated area has just exploded.”

Brown said improvements being studied in the Gulf Drive corridor could cost $55 million-$60 million, including design, right-of-way acquisition and construction. He said transportation planners are exploring ways to phase improvements so safety upgrades — including pedestrian crossings, bicycle accommodations and sidewalks — could begin sooner.

The Island Transportation Planning Organization will meet next at 2 p.m., Monday, May 11, at Bradenton Beach City Hall, 107 Gulf Drive N.

The MPO board will meet at 9 a.m. Monday, March 30, in Sarasota.

Code changes allowing units at Seaside Gardens to rebuild move forward

By ryan Paice islander reporter

Allowances for rebuilding properties in Seaside Gardens are advancing.

Holmes Beach city commissioners unanimously voted March 10 to approve a first reading for an ordinance that would permit voluntary reconstruction of nonconforming properties in the community.

The Seaside Gardens community was established in the 1960s by John E. Holmes Sr. — the city’s namesake — and developed into a neighborhood of 110 individually owned ground-level duplexes.

It is located in the city’s R-4 zoning district, a medium density residential zone intended to provide

PieR BiDS continued froM Page 4

it. This is for informational purposes.”

However, Commissioner Christopher Arendt said seeking informal bids instead of official bids was a “needless duplication of effort.”

Commissioner Gary McMullen agreed. He supported immediately seeking official bids through an ITB or request for proposals process.

City clerk Amber LaRowe added that, if the city were to seek official bids, it should simultaneously issue a second ITB for T-end remediation work. She said both ITBs should be posted for at least 21 days.

“It doesn’t hurt to advance the timeline a little,” Arendt said.

There was no public comment on the item.

Plan now for season!

Is your business ready to make the most of every week?

Improve your odds of success with Islander newspaper readers looking to shop and dine, seeking indoor and outdoor fun, and a place to stay for their next visit. Call or text 941-778-7978.

a mix of single-family, two-family and multifamily residential dwellings.

Many of the neighborhood’s properties are legally nonconforming since they were built and permitted under previous codes, but the units are noncompliant with current regulations.

The repair and/or reconstruction of nonconforming properties is restricted, but the city adopted an ordinance in October 2023 that allows R-4 properties to be rebuilt if they were involuntarily damaged by 50% or more of the structure’s assessed value.

Multiple units have since been rebuilt and elevated, despite sharing common walls with attached homes, to meet current flood-zone standards.

Director of development services Chad Minor said Seaside Gardens residents only wanted to allow involuntarily damaged nonconforming properties to be rebuilt in 2023 but are now calling for them to be rebuilt voluntarily.

And the ordinance was drafted to allow them to do that.

Commission Chair Carol Whitmore said she was happy the city was moving forward with the ordinance since it would help Seaside Gardens residents stay in their homes.

Commissioner Dan Diggins said he was in favor of allowing voluntary reconstruction back in 2023, so he was glad it was happening now.

There was no public comment.

Commissioner Dan Diggins moved to approve the

first reading. Commissioner Terry Schaefer seconded the motion, which passed.

The ordinance is set to go before the city’s planning commission for review at 3:30 p.m. Wednesday, April 1, at city hall, 5801 Marina Drive.

It will then go back to the city commission for a second hearing at 2 p.m. April 14, at city hall.

Hunker down

Yes, it’s the middle of March. The St. Patrick’s Day Parade and a lot of events and tourism magnets are behind us.

But, as a reminder to those who lost the sense of what it was like to share 100% of Anna Maria Island with tourists, family visitors in every household and teens and college students running amuck on the beaches before the hurricanes of 2024 and the shock of a pandemic — this is tourist season.

There can be long lines in traffic in the mornings as parents deliver students to Anna Maria School (there’s no bus for school choice kids) and the population at AME is mostly kids from town who are “choiced” into the school.

Other traffic is heading early to the beach to secure a parking spot or workers — and there are plenty of them — heading to jobs up and down the island on homes that are still in disarray from the 2024 storms.

Reverse the motion in the afternoons as workers, beachgoers and shuttle parents and kids head back off the island.

Weekends? Well. That’s mostly the attraction of the beach.

It seems two years without a full-fledged tourist season has some islanders in shock over the inconvenience they bear to live year-round in paradise.

Well — dust off the bicycles. Try the trolley alternative. Walk when you can to nearby destinations. Be part of the solution for congestion on the roads.

And, when I say congestion, I haven’t forgotten the ever-increasing numbers of people on speedy e-bikes and e-scooters pushing limits on bike paths and sidewalks, some creating hazards by cutting through traffic and others pushing pedestrians off the path, leaping for safety.

Well, e-bike riders soon will have to slow down if a bill approved by the Florida Legislature gets a signature from the governor.

Senate Bill 382 establishes a 10-mph speed limit for e-bikes within 50 feet of a pedestrian — and that effectively puts the limit on the busy roads on AMI — but that’s not all.

The bill also establishes a task force to track e-bike “traffic incidents, injuries and fatalities” and recommend further regulations as the state considers a minimum age and licensing for e-cyclists, along with registration requirements for e-bikes.

The Senate passed the bill Feb. 25 and the House followed. Now, we wait for Gov. Ron DeSantis to make it law.

Do it DeSantis. Just do it.

— Bonner Joy

OpinionYour

Gulf of …

In reference to the letter from the “seasonal guest and avid reader” in the March 4 issue under “Your Opinion”: For a split second, I seriously thought it was April Fool’s.

I was taken aback that the writer questioned the name of the Gulf of Mexico printed on The Islander’s map and requested a name change.

Thank you for your perceptive, thorough and factbased response.

Ann Pitts, Bradenton

Connections

Skimming online

Website: islander.org

Facebook: islandernewspaper

Instagram: @theislanderami

News alerts: Register at islander.org

E-edition: Subscribe at islander.org

Archive: ufdc.ufl.edu

Submit news, letters: news@islander.org

The Islander Poll

MARCH 18, 2026 • Vol. 34, No. 21

▼ Publisher, editor Bonner Joy, news@islander.org

▼ Editorial robert anderson, robert@islander.org

Joe Bird, editorial cartoonist Kevin cassidy, kevin@islander.org Jack elka, jack@jackelka.com lisa neff, lisa@islander.org ryan Paice, ryan@islander.org

▼ Contributors

Jacob Merrifield capt. danny stasny, fish@islander.org

Mike sales

▼ Advertising Sales lisa e. hlywa, lisae@islander.org ads@islander.org

▼ lisa williams info@, accounting@, classifieds@, subscriptions@islander.org

▼ Distribution urbane Bouchet ross roberts

Judy loden wasco

▼ Webmaster

wayne ansell

Put the brakes on

All others: info@islander.org

single copies free. Quantities of five or more: 25 cents each. ©1992-2026 weBsite: islander.org

text or call: 941-778-7978. email news@islander.org

At a time when political and civic leaders are too often self-indulgent and self-important, it was refreshing to read Holmes Beach Mayor Judy Titsworth’s “State of Holmes Beach.” Statesmanlike. Forwardlooking. Insightful. Challenging. Even inspiring.

Our mayor presides over a tiny city — one of three on a small island — not a metropolis with burgeoning suburbs.

Longtime homeowners and tourists alike rightfully imagine AMI to be a world unto itself. But as she compellingly demonstrates with the facts about residents, landlords, renters, and daily beach visitors, the challenge of preserving our little slice of paradise requires “thoughtful planning, stewardship, and a deep respect for the natural environment.”

In short, a set of complex, delicate balances to preserve the distinct culture of our Holmes Beach and island communities.

We are fortunate to have such leadership represented by our mayor and the commissioners who recently advocated so successfully to ensure our future is shaped by our 75-year legacy and shared vision for

Should Anna Maria create more outdoor seating on the City Pier by opening the enclosed building on the T-end?

A. Yes.

B. Maybe.

C. No, keep the building.

To answer the poll, go to islander.org.

Last week’s question

How will you celebrate St. Patrick’s Day on Anna Maria Island?

All of the above. 35%

Feasting on corned beef and cabbage. 27%

Catching the parade March 15. 22%

Green beer and live music at a favorite pub. 17%

the future not the interests of those beyond our community.

And, as we look confidently to our future, here’s a less momentous, somewhat churlish, request: Could the island’s leaders join together to help require golf carts, bicycles and electric scooters to obey stop signs and traffic signals?

Tom Flynn, Holmes Beach

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

Looking back

Mayoral tribute at the museum

dottie Mcchesney, who served as mayor in anna Maria, visits the anna Maria island historical society museum, 402 Pine ave., anna Maria, in november 1998 to take in an exhibit about island mayors. islander Photos: Manatee county Public library system digital collection

A mayor’s oath of office

charlotte long is sworn in as the mayor of holmes Beach at holmes Beach city hall. the photograph is dated March 15, 1978. let us know if you can id the person swearing her into office and the witnesses. e-mail us at news@ islander.org.

10-20-30 years ago

From the March 14, 1996, issue

• The governor and cabinet approved a request from Manatee County — initiated by Anna Maria Mayor Dottie McChesney — to prohibit a person from taking more than two live shells per day from coastal waters. The campaign took three years to see results.

• Holmes Beach voters elected Bob van Wagoner as mayor, succeeding Rich Bohnenberger. Voters also elected Ron Robinson to the commission and reelected Carol Whitmore.

From the March 15, 2006, issue

• Rotten Ralph’s Waterfront Restaurant was celebrating the signing of another two-year lease with Galati Marine to remain at South Bay Boulevard.

• Harvey Memorial Community Church welcomed the arrival of a new pastor — the Rev. Stephen King, who continues to serve as pastor. King also serves as CEO of Meals On Wheels of Tampa but recently announced he is retiring from that position.

From the March 16, 2016, issue

• Manatee County Commissioner John Chappie, currently serving as Bradenton Beach mayor, announced he would not seek reelection to the District 3 seat.

• Holmes Beach commissioners voted to reduce the number of holidays when construction work and lawn maintenance were prohibited.

— lisa neff

May the road rise to meet you in the AMI St. Pat’s Parade!

a t-shirt-tossing cycling leprechaun — aka aMi dolphin tours owner Ben webb — rides ahead of the parade along Marina drive.

spectators rush forward to catch beads and more March 15 from a float traveling along Marina drive during the aMi st. Patrick’s day Parade in holmes Beach.

islander Photos: robert anderson

spectators throw their hands up for swag and candy tossed from passing floats March 15 during the anna Maria island st. Patrick’s day Parade along Marina drive in holmes Beach.

riders aboard the aMi dolphin tours pontoon-parade float toss beads to spectators as they pass along Marina drive in holmes Beach during the March 15 center of aMi st. Patrick’s day parade.

compiled by lisa neff, calendar@islander.org

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT ON AMI

Wednesday, March 18

Noon — Roser Guild Thrift Shop Fashion Show and Luncheon, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Fee applies. Info: 941-778-0414. SOLD OUT

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.

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 26, Tingley Memorial Library Florida Author Book Club meeting, Bradenton Beach.

• March 27, Songwriters in the Round, Anna Maria.

• March 28, Island Library’s Suncoast Blues Concert, Holmes Beach.

• 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

Friday, March 20

6-8 p.m. — Center of Anna Maria Island Bingo Night, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria. 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. org.

DEVINE DESIGN

Island happenings

compiled by lisa neff

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

SAVE THE DATES

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

• April 24, Center Bingo Night, Anna Maria. CLUBS & COMMUNITY ON AMI

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. Saturday, March 21

8-11 a.m. — Roser Church Pancake Breakfast, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Fee applies. Info: 941-778-0414.

9-11 a.m. — Center of Anna Maria Island Beach Cleanup, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria. Info: 941-778-1908.

Wednesday, March 25

5 p.m. — Annie Silver Community Center Community Dinner/ Fish Fry, 103 23rd St. N., Bradenton Beach. Fee applies. Info: 513368-6454.

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.

• Most Fridays, 1 p.m., bridge, Center of Anna Maria Island, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria. Info: 941-778-3390.

• 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.

SAVE THE DATES

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

• April 11, Center of Anna Maria Island Beach Cleanup, Anna Maria.

• April 18, AME Gala, Anna Maria.

MARKETS & COMMUNITY SALES

ONGOING ON AMI

• Tuesdays, through April, 9 a.m.-2 p.m., Anna Maria Community Farmers Market, Roser Memorial Community Church, 512

Browsing in the library

Members of the friends of the island library on March 12 attend a preview jewelry sale at the branch, 5701 Marina drive, holmes Beach, browsing fine, vintage, estate and costume jewelry donated by the local community. the public sale was March 13-14. all proceeds benefit the island library. islander Photo: courtesy Julie Perry

Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Info: 941- 778-1908.

• Tuesdays, through season, 10 a.m. until sellout, Anna Maria Island Historical Society Settler’s Bread sales, 402 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Info: amihs.org, 941-778-0492.

• Tuesdays and Thursdays, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Shepherd’s Closet Thrift Store at the Episcopal Church of the Annunciation, 4408 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. Info: 941-778-1638.

• Most Tuesdays and Thursdays, 9 a.m.-2 p.m., Saturdays, 9 a.m.-noon, Roser Guild Thrift Shop, 511 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Info: 941-778-0414.

• Most Mondays, Wednesdays, Saturdays, 9 a.m.-1 p.m., Longboat Island Chapel’s Lord’s Warehouse thrift store, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key. Info: 941-383-4738.

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

ONGOING OFF AMI

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

SAVE THE DATES

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

• April 18, Herrig Center Snatch It Up, Bradenton.

LEARNING & EDUCATION ON AMI

Wednesday, March 18

10 a.m. — Terrestrial Animals program, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Info: 941-778-6341. Friday, March 20

2-3 p.m. — Integration of Sarasota’s Beaches program, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Info: 941-778-6341.

SPORTS & FITNESS

ONGOING OFF AMI

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

SAVE THE DATES

• April 2, Bradenton Marauders season begins.

• May 8, Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce Golf Tournament, Bradenton.

OUTDOORS & NATURE OFF AMI

Saturday, March 21

8-10 a.m. — Astronomy Night, Robinson Preserve Expansion, 10299 Ninth Ave. NW, Bradenton. Info: 941-748-4501.

ONGOING OFF AMI

• Saturdays, 9 a.m., Manatee County Natural Resources

Music Lessons: Guitar, Bass Piano, Ukulele, Saxophone and More

Tingley book club to meet

Tingley Memorial Library in Bradenton Beach will host a Florida Author Book Club discussion of Patrick D. Smith’s “A Land Remembered” at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, March 26.

The novel follows the fictional MacIvey family across three generations, from 1858 to 1968, tracing their journey from struggling pioneers to wealthy landowners amid the Florida wilderness.

To register, call 941-779-1208 or email bradentonbeachlibrary@gmail.com.

Tingley is at 111 Second St. N.

Annie Silver serves supper

Members of the Annie Silver Community Center, 103 23rd St. N., Bradenton Beach, are preparing a Wednesday night feast.

The center volunteers will host a community supper at 5 p.m. Wednesday, March 25, including a fish fry, with sides and desserts.

For more information, call 513-368-6454.

Historian to examine beach desegregation in library talk

A New College professor will recount the civil rights-era fight to desegregate Sarasota’s beaches at a free public lecture at the Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach.

William P. Hustwit, associate professor of history at New College of Florida, will present “Wade in the Water: The Integration of Sarasota’s Beaches” at 2 p.m. Friday, March 20. The talk is part of the county library’s America 250 series marking the nation’s semiquincentennial.

Hustwit’s lecture draws on the local history of beach wade-in protests, a form of direct action in which activists entered segregated public beaches — to illuminate a lesser-known chapter of the broader civil rights movement.

Registration is required.

For more information, call the library at 941-7786341.

caLeNDaR continued froM Page 8

CALENDAR NOTES

MARK THE DATES

• 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.

• May 15, Armed Forces Day.

• May 25, Memorial Day.

• June, Pride Month.! Send listings to calendar@islander.org.

Island happenings

Heritage Fest 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.

The festival will offer 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 AMI Privateers.

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

Center plans beach cleanups

The Center of Anna Maria Island will host a beach cleanup 9-11 a.m. Saturday, March 21.

Volunteers are invited to meet at the center, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria, before walking together to the beach.

The final Saturday cleanup of the season will be April 11.

For more information, contact the center at volunteer@centerami.org or 941-778-1908.

compiled by lisa neff

Kiwanis to meet

The Kiwanis Club of Anna Maria Island is gathering most weeks at 8:30 a.m. Saturdays at Bradenton Beach City Hall, 107 Gulf Drive N.

The club will hear from Krista Carpenter of Wildlife Inc. March 21 and a representative from Manatee Children’s Services March 28, as well as prepare for the annual sunrise service on Easter Sunday.

For more information, call Sandy Haas-Martens at 941-730-0016.

Center calls for bingo players

The Center of Anna Maria Island will host two more bingo nights this season.

The next night of bingo will be 6-8 p.m. Friday, March 20.

The final bingo night will be Friday, April 24. Bingo cards cost 10 for $10.

The center will offer snacks, beverages and pizza for a donation.

The center is at 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria. For more information, call the center at 941-7781908.

Cha-ching! Treasure hunt in Cortez reaps crowds

Bradenton man arrested for possessing controlled substance

Holmes Beach police arrested Vito Angelicola, 57, of Bradenton, March 8 on an alleged third-degree felony charge of possessing drugs without a prescription.

He also faces three misdemeanor charges, including driving with a suspended license and attaching an unassigned license plate to a vehicle.

An officer stopped Angelicola about 6:40 p.m. in the 700 block of Manatee Avenue after observing an improper license plate and altered registration decal.

During a search before impoundment, the officer

Streetlife

Island police reports

By robert anderson and ryan Paice

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

Anna Maria

No new reports.

Bradenton Beach

No new reports

Cortez

No new reports.

Holmes Beach

March 4, 200 block of 64th Street, theft. A man entered the HBPD to report that $1,300 worth of equipment was delivered to his property but was missing the next day.

March 4, Anna Maria Island Beach Cafe, 4000 Gulf Drive, recovered property. A cafe employee found a bottle containing Klonopin and nitroglycerin.

March 5, Publix Liquors, 505 Manatee Ave., lewd behavior. Officers responded to calls from the store asking for a man to be trespassed. Two complainants said they saw the man fondling himself. Officers arrested a suspect, who displayed signs of impairment. He said he had a medical issue with his genitalia and was not masturbating. An officer transported him to the HCA Florida Blake Hospital in Bradenton and then took him to the Manatee County jail.

March 5, The Chateau AMI, 5325 Marina Drive, unpaid bill. Restaurant owners said four customers left without paying a $486.85 bill. They said the party was unruly and disruptive and were asked to leave. An officer contacted one of the customers using the number used to schedule a reservation. He said they wanted to pay the bill, but left when they were told to do so. The officer transported the customer back to the restaurant to pay the bill.

March 8, Waterline Resort and Marina, 5325 Marina Drive, potential fraud. The resort’s operations

found buprenorphine and naloxone film in the center console.

Angelicola said it was his but he did not have a prescription.

He was taken to the Manatee County jail and released March 9 after posting $3,300 bond.

If convicted, the felony charge carries a penalty of up to five years in prison.

Arraignment is set for April 24 at the Manatee County Judicial Center in Bradenton.

— ryan Paice

HBPD makes DUI arrest

Holmes Beach police arrested Michael Brown, 54, of Bradenton, March 9 on a second-degree misdemeanor charge of allegedly driving under the influence of alcohol.

He also was charged with a first-degree misdemeanor for a second or subsequent offense of knowingly driving with a suspended license.

A Holmes Beach officer observed a motorist make a reckless turn at 58th Street and Holmes Boulevard, then pull over and wave the officer past.

During a traffic stop, Brown failed field sobriety exercises and he refused breath testing at the HBPD.

Brown was taken to the Manatee County jail, where he remained March 11 on $500 bond. Arraignment will be April 14 at the Manatee County Judicial Center in Bradenton.

— ryan Paice

manager said staff found inconsistencies with recent reservations, where someone was making reservations under one card, canceling the next day, then asking for refunds to different cards. The total amount of deposits made was $29,325.

March 10, 600 block of Manatee Avenue, fraud. A man reported that a false check was created in his name that impacted a credit card account.

Bradenton Beach commissioner scott Bear, left, reviews a project display with florida department of transportation project manager adam rose during a March 12 meeting at christ church of longboat Key on the longboat Pass Bridge Project development and environment study. islander Photo: robert anderson

RoadWatch

By lisa neff

Eyes on the road

State Road 64/Anna Maria Island Bridge: The Manatee Avenue Water Main Intracoastal Crossing project is underway at the bridge, requiring temporary lane closures. Info: www.amiprojects.io, 941-3064660, 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 Street and 56th Street, from Gulf Drive to Marina Drive. Info: 941-708-5768, mgorman@holmesbeachfl.org.

Gulf Drive/State Road 789: The Florida Department of Transportation is milling and resurfacing Gulf Drive from Coquina Beach in Bradenton Beach to State Road 64/Manatee Avenue in Holmes Beach through May 1. Motorists can expect single-lane closures overnight. Info: swflroads.com/project/451021-1.

Cortez Bridge: Construction activities are ongoing on the south side of Cortez Road West east of the bridge. Pipe installation work is expected to continue into the spring. Info: 941-306-4660, info@amiprojects. io, amiprojects.io.

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

Trolley

around AMI

Manatee county area transit’s island trolley operates most days 6 a.m.-10:45 p.m. between coquina Beach in Bradenton Beach and the anna Maria city Pier in anna Maria. riders also can 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.

Warming spring weather patterns heat up AMI fishing action

By capt. danny stasny islander reporter

Anna Maria Island anglers are excited to see water temps on the rise as springtime fishing is on the verge of reality.

That’s provided we stay in a warmer pattern, with no more sneak attacks from cold fronts.

But don’t hold your breath this week, as we expect a quick chill with the arrival spring on March 20.

stasny

Aside from brief interruptions, springtime fishing is shaping up, as snook, trout and redfish are on the flats and hunting for a meal.

The snook have been slightly elusive, but they are starting to show in increasing numbers with spring’s arrival. Spotted seatrout, on the other hand, have really made a showing, with all sizes being found on deeper flats and shallow ones, too. Larger examples of trout seem to be on the shallows, enjoying the sun and the warming waters and awaiting a meal.

As for redfish, there are some schools on the shallow flats, which are seeing quite a bit of traffic, especially during the higher stages of the tide, when they are accessible by most boats. Reds are being found along mangrove shorelines and oyster bars and even under docks and seawalls.

Moving into the Gulf, Spanish mackerel are attainable, especially around reefs and hard-bottom areas, where Cobia can be found lurking, too, so keep a heavy spinning rod handy. A medium-sized pinfish free-lined in front of a cobia will generally do the job. Some sheepshead and grunts are available if you’re using shrimp as bait. Of course, you’ll want to cash in on this bite while you still can, as the sheepies are toward the end of their spawn and will soon be dispersing.

Fishing the surf in the Gulf along the island beaches is yielding some pompano, as well as quite a few whiting. Shrimp-tipped jigs are a good option to target the fish, as well as ladyfish, jacks and trout as they roam the beach.

Lastly, fishing offshore in the Gulf of Mexico is

Obituary

James Zacharias

James Zacharias, longtime local resident, known to many as Capt. Zach, died March 5, at home in Cortez.

He was born Feb. 4, 1947, in Cleveland, Ohio, to Alvin and Lottie Kasmala Zacharias.

His family moved to Palmetto in 1955 on purchasing the Patio Motel and restaurant. They later moved to Sarasota, where they were resident operators of Snook Haven, the Myakka River fishing camp.

He began working as a fishing guide as a teenager. He graduated Venice High School, where he wore No. 77 and played tackle on the football team under the legendary coach, Jim Powell. He attended Manatee Junior College, where he was student government president.

He left Florida and traveled the United States and landed in New England, where he opened a leather shop. His love of cooking led him to work in restaurants, where he worked alongside Anthony Bourdain at Ciros restaurant in Provincetown.

He returned to Florida in 1976 and worked at

yielding limits of red grouper in depths of 100 feet or more with vermilion, lane and mangrove snappers being the most prevalent.

Amberjack are on the prowl around offshore wrecks so keep a rod ready to free-line larger baits like pinfish to get in on the action.

On a final note, sign up now for the annual Reel for Rotary fishing tournament set for Saturday, May 9. They’re still on the hunt for contestants and sponsors. So get involved if you can. It’s for a good cause. You can register at http://ami-reelforrotary.square.site.

On my Just Reel charters, I’m seeing great action on spotted seatrout while fishing shallow grass flats in Sarasota Bay. Most catches are in the slot of 15-19 inches, with some larger examples mixed in.

After trout fi shing, I’m moving my charters to the shallow flats along mangrove shorelines to target snook. Most are 20-26 inches with a slot-sized fish here and there. Redfish are being caught in the same areas, which adds a nice mix to the snook bite.

Fishing along the beaches is yielding Spanish

iconic restaurants on Anna Maria Island, where he and Donna lived for 18 years.

He earned his captain’s license and became one of the earliest backwater fishing guides in the Sarasota Bay region. He operated charters on the Dee Jay.

He and wife Donna have lived in Cortez for 34 years, where he continued work as a charter fishing guide until 2012.

He wrapped up a career as a sports fishing colum-

dave grinnel and his grandsons, Miles and Micah, traveled from Michigan to fish the aMi waters and wound up with a 35-inch redfish, caught on a saltwater cricket and released. their guide, capt. scott Moore, said the family caught an “inshore slam,” which included trout and a few small snook.

mackerel, as well as some more trout and flounder for my anglers.

Capt. David White says snook fishing is getting good for his charters as water temperatures continue to rise. Casting live shiners as bait around mangrove shorelines and channel edges is leading to snook of all sizes — including some big ones — for his clients.

Going after spotted seatrout with live shiners as bait also is working well for White’s charter clients. Numerous slot-size trout are being caught over deeper grass and shallow grass flats with limits attainable on most mornings.

Moving into the Gulf of Mexico, White is starting to hook up with some Spanish mackerel over wrecks and reefs. Mangrove snapper are present in these areas and are responding to baits fished on the bottom.

Lastly, White notes sharks are roaming the shallows, which makes them targetable for anglers who want to get a work out for their arms.

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

nist for the Sarasota Herald Tribune in 2017.

He will be remembered as a conservation-focused guide and was committed to environmental preservation through volunteer efforts on the Manatee County Environmental Land Management and Acquisition Committee, the Manatee-Sarasota Fish and Game Association, and as a member of the Florida Institute for Saltwater Heritage for many years.

He was named Crosswaithe Outdoorsman of the Year in 1998. He was a leader in the effort to develop a top quality, artificial reef system for Manatee County and donated numerous guided fishing trips to various conservation organizations that were auctioned to benefit their projects.

The family plans to hold a celebration of life at a later date in Cortez.

Mr. Zacharias is survived by his wife of 50 years, Donna; son Joshua and wife Kaimi and beloved granddaughters Zoe and Maisie of Eastham, Massachusetts; stepson Jesse Candish of Anna Maria; sister-in-law Kathy Eubanks of Bradenton; nephew Tom Tryon and wife Yvonne of Ellenton; nephew Martin; and nieces Amy Andresh and Judy Maxwell of Streetsboro, Ohio.

Family forces elderly couple’s dilemma, theater fills with laughs

By Bonner Joy islander editor

Lonely seniors Sam Jones and Laura Curtis meet and fall in love.

A love story? Decidedly, no.

The widower and widow face a decision thanks to a raucous confrontation in three acts with family members that they didn’t anticipate would disagree with their plans.

But did they?

Family members pile on with an intervention of sorts, demanding the couple “do the right thing.” Daughter, son, in-laws, grandson — all but one insists they get married.

The premise is out-of-date, but the wise-cracks, snickers, chuckles and audience laughter are as good as new.

“The Second Time Around” was originally presented in New York City Jan. 1, 1977.

For the Island Players, Preston Boyd directs.

He and wife Priscilla and I have history and, I have to say, I have long admired his work. We go back to the late 1970s, early ’80s, when he directed events — outdoor concerts and a medieval fair — at the Ringling Museum and I was in charge of marketing and advertising for the museum.

Since those days, he has taught drama and music at St. Stephens school for 24 years and theater at State College of Florida six years.

And he and Priscilla and I have crossed paths numerous times over the years at the island play -

Back to School? Time for a checkup! Kids are welcoMe!

Jamie Lawson O.D., Kenneth Lawson O.D. 5632 26th St. W., Bradenton 941.751.4668, BayshoreEyeCare.net

IMHO, the Players are lucky to have the Boyds “in the house.”

In the playbill, Boyd says the cast and crew for “The Second Time Around” bring a fresh perspective to what I would call an archaic attitude.

He writes, “Antagonistic forces telling the lovers NOT to get married. NOT to enjoy each other’s love … results in a more interesting story.”

He says the attraction between the senior couple demonstrates they don’t need rules or approval. They don’t need convention or analysis. They don’t need a hackneyed plot.

Boyd says, “All you need is love.”

Adding: “Go ahead. Sing it.”

The players include Mark Shoemaker as Samuel

Jones and Meg Newsome as Laura Curtis — the senior lovebirds, who hold hands and gently caress without sexuality while defending their “cause” to live outside marriage.

Morgan Powis is Sam’s prudish daughter and Joseph Kiens is Laura’s son, a whiney mama’s boy. Their spouses, sexually obsessed Eleanor, played by Deirdre Dean, and psycho-analyst Dr. Arthur Morse, played by Scott Ehrenpreis, round out the cast until — surprise — in comes grandson Bruce, played by theater newcomer Evan Bradshaw, with girlfriend in tow, Angela, played by Katherine Powell. Together, they manage to upset the proverbial apple cart. And push the senior couple to “do the right thing.”

The roles were well cast — the players move seamlessly in character throughout the generational conflict. You might imagine you were watching a reel of your own family, living out a similar situation. You’re bound to find laughter across the boards and in the audience.

“Second Time” is running through March 29, including two Sunday matinees. Showtimes are 7:30 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday and 2 p.m. Sundays.

The theater is at 10009 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria. Tickets are $28 for adults and $18 for students. For ticket availability, visit theislandplayers.org or call the box office — open 9 a.m.-1 p.m. MondaySaturday and an hour before showtime — at 941-7785755.

Gathering By lisa neff

Kiwanis readies 61st annual Easter Sunrise Service

The Kiwanis Club of Anna Maria Island will gather with the community and the island churches for its 61st annual Easter Sunrise Service at 6:30 a.m. April 5 at Manatee County Public Beach, 4000 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach.

The interdenominational beachside service draws 1,200-2,000 attendees each year.

This year’s program will feature a sermon by the Rev. Lee Miller of the Episcopal Church of the Annunciation, Scripture readings by the Rev. Phillip Schweda of St. Bernard Catholic Church, an invocation and benediction by the Rev. Dr. Dirk Rodgers of Roser Memorial Community Church and an offertory by the Rev. Stephen King of Harvey Memorial Community Church.

Musical accompaniment will be provided by Morgan Bryant, with a bagpiper closing the service — a new addition to this year’s program.

The organizers say the event reflects the resilience of Anna Maria Island residents and their commitment to communal celebration.

The offering will be shared among the participating churches, the AMI Kiwanis Club’s SCF Key Club Scholarship program and other local Kiwanis initiatives.

Trolley service will begin at 6 a.m. and the Anna Maria Beach Cafe will open at 6:30 a.m.

Attendees are encouraged to bring chairs or blankets for seating.

An online donation option and the program for the service are available at the Kiwanis Club of Anna Maria Island website, kiwanisami.com.

For more information, contact club secretary Sandy Haas-Martens at 941-778-1383.

Church to host crafts show

The Episcopal Church of the Annunciation will host an arts and crafts show and sale Saturday, April 11.

The event will run 9 a.m.-4 p.m. at the church, 4408 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, and will feature handmade items created by local crafters.

Organizers also are inviting artisans interested in displaying and selling their work to participate.

For information or to join in, contact show coordinator Judy Barnes at 517-648-8885.

Roser to serve breakfast

Roser Memorial Community Church will host its next pancake breakfast 8-11 a.m. Saturday, March 21, in the fellowship hall, continuing a monthly series that runs through spring.

The church is offering a full breakfast meal for $10 per person, with children 5 and under admitted free. The menu includes pancakes, sausage, biscuits and gravy, applesauce, coffee and tea.

Saturday’s breakfast is the last of three for the winter season, which launched Jan. 31 and returned Feb. 28.

The church is at 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria.

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

Citizen of the Year award presented cindy stimart, right, holds a plaque March 12 recognizing the stimart family as the city’s 2025 distinguished citizen of the Year for the Build Back the Beach project to replace beachfront vegetation destroyed by the 2024 storms. Janet riley, left, a member of the award committee, made the presentation. islander Photo: robert anderson

Obituary

Obituaries At your service

Obituaries are offered as a service to residents and families of residents, both past and present, as well as to those people with ties to the island. Submit notices to news@islander. org. Obituaries are provided free — a service of your community newspaper. Paid obituaries can be discussed with our advertising consultant at 941778-7978.

— Bonner Joy

GoodDeeds

Assistance sought on AMI

• Anna Maria Island Garden Club seeks sponsors for its Anna Maria Island Historical Society Park rejuvenation and Holmes Beach beach access beautification projects. Info: 941-224-1761.

• All Island Denominations accepts financial donations at P.O. Box 814, Anna Maria, FL 34216. Info: 941-778-0414.

• Anna Maria Island Historical Society, 402 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, seeks volunteers. Info: 608-4440084.

• Cortez Village Historical Society seeks volunteers. Info: cvhs2016@aol.com.

• Island Players in Anna Maria seeks volunteers. Info: 941-920-1362.

• Tingley Memorial Library, 111 Second St. N., Bradenton Beach, seeks volunteers to lend books. Info: 941-779-1208.

• Wildlife Education and Rehabilitation Center in Bradenton Beach seeks gift cards for supplies. Info: 941-778-6324.

Assistance offered on AMI

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

• All Island Denominations offers financial help. Info: 941-778-0414.

— lisa neff

Email listings to lisa@islander.org.

Bobby Bugna Sr.

Bobby Bugna sr., born in tampa, nov. 18, 1938, died feb. 16, at the age of 87. he was a fisherman who raised a large family on anna Maria island. his death notice was submitted by daughter Kim.

cRaMeR continued froM Page 3

sin. No local service is planned.

Mrs. Cramer is survived by daughter Jessi of Sarasota; son Michael of Bradenton; grandchildren Terry Rue Louis and Harper Noelle; brothers Robert Blau and wife Cindy of Portage and Thomas Blau of Edgerton; sisters Catherine and husband Randy Balliet of Appleton, Janet and husband John DiGuiseppi of Rockford, and Connie Lamprech of Janesville, sisterin-law Patti and husband Doug Finger of Sun Prairie; as well as a number of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

“YOU ARE THE C HRIST ”

KRC heads up 3 golf titles, center crowns 3 youth teams

By Kevin P. cassidy Islander reporter

Regular golf action at the Key Royale Club in Holmes Beach gave way to three club challenges, starting March 4 with the fifth-annual women’s membermember tournament.

Marcia Friessen and Monica Lawson combined on a net score of 25.2 to take first in Flight 1, edging second-place finishers Janelle Clements and Debbie Richardson by 0.2 of a point. Connie Livanos and Roxanne Koche won the second flight with a score of 24.1, while Helen Pollock and Susan Wheeler finished in second with a score of 24.7.

Winners of the third flight were Billie Jean Pinson and Annette Hall, who combined on a 22.7 for the low round of the day. Jody Maleeny and Anna Maria Laszlo finished in second with a score of 24.1.

Jana Samuels won closest to the line on No. 5 and Roxanne Koche had the longest putt on No. 3.

The KRC Mixed Couples Tournament concluded four nine-hole rounds March 7 with Jana Samuels and Warren Stevens holding on to first with a cumulative score of 117.4. Their score edged second-place finishers Monica and Eric Lawson’s score of 117.8. Andrea Saia and Tom Nelson were alone in third place with a score of 118.4.

The event concluded with lunch and beverages served on the club patio.

On March 11, the senior and super senior men finished 18 holes of tournament stroke play golf. Capturing first place in the super seniors was Gary Risner at 9-over-par 73. Larry Pippel and Charlie Porter finished in a tie for second at 11-over-par 75.

In the senior event, Al Waal and Bob McSparren finished at 12-over-par 76 after 18 holes, sending the match to a three-hole playoff. Waal prevailed and took first. Tom Nelson finished in third with a score of 79.

Horseshoe news

Two teams emerged from pool play and settled things in a playoff during March 11 horseshoe action at the Anna Maria City Hall pits. The team of Tim Sofran and Bill Galbally earned a come-from-behind victory over Dave Long and John Poccynek thanks to a game-ending double ringer by Sofran to give them a 23-19 victory.

The March 14 games saw Del Reese and Bob Hawks jump out to an early lead and cruise to a 21-7 victory over Sofran and Jay Disbrow to win the day’s competition.

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

Play is free and all are welcome.

Center football league winners crowned

Three champs were crowned March 10 in the Center of Anna Maria Island’s youth flag football league.

No. 1 seed Shady Lady Horticultural Services completed an undefeated season in the 8-10 division after holding on for a 20-13 victory over No. 3 seed USA Fence behind a big game from Mason Shook.

Shook caught a pair of touchdown passes from quarterback Beauen Kolb, while also adding a rushing touchdown and an interception on defense. Luca Dominick chipped in a safety and Riley Konig and Jeremiah Raulerson completed the scoring with extra points in the victory.

USA Fence was led by Sebastian Buser’s two TD passes, including one each to Grady Niedzwic and Jordan Steele, who also added an extra point in the loss.

82 West Home Inspections, 11-13

Division Champs

Nolan anderson, rusty Dilley, Kazimir Funtal, Miles Moss, Parker Svoboda, Luca Viehman, hudson West and coach ryan Moss. Islander Photo: courtesy cofaMI

82 West Home Inspections also completed an undefeated season in the 11-13 division through the playoffs with a 20-12 victory over Florida Impact Windows.

Miles Moss threw three TD passes to Luca Viehman, who finished with a game-high 11 receptions to lead 82 West Home Inspections to victory. Hudson West added an extra point and Parker Svoboda added an interception for the winners.

David Evans threw a pair of TD passes to Andre Harwood for Florida Impact Windows in the loss.

The 14-17 division produced another unbeaten team as Moss Builders cruised to a 41-7 victory over No. 7 seed Wings ’N Things thanks to a huge game from Mason Moss. Moss finished with five TD passes and a pair of TD runs to lead Moss Builders, which also received two TDs from Mason Hackley and TDs from Valentino Grieneisen, Austin Guess and Cale Rudacille.

Ryk Kesten threw a TD pass and an extra point to Renan Kesten for Wings in the loss, which ended the team’s Cinderella run through the playoffs.

Adult flag football news

The regular season is complete in the adult flag football league at the center and it’s on to the playoffs with play-in games set for March 19 pitting No. 7 seed Solid Rock Construction against No. 10 seed Slim’s Place and No. 9 seed Sandbar Restaurant against Edible Cookie Dough Cafe March 19 for a chance to extend the season at least one more game.

The rest of the teams in the league will be waiting for playoff games that begin March 20. The Fish Guy Aquarium Services nailed down the No. 1 spot with a 7-0 record, just ahead of Coast Continent and Reel Coastal Properties, which hold No. 2 and 3 on 6-1 records. Salty Printing took No. 4 seed with a 4-3 finish, while Beach House Realty and Moss Air Conditioning round out the top six seeds with 3-4 records.

Check out more sports news and photos online at islander.org.

By Lisa Neff

‘Leave the oil there’

Thousands of people nationwide have registered their opposition to the Trump administration’s proposal to open eastern areas of the Gulf to oil and natural gas exploration and drilling.

The statements were submitted this winter during the public comment period for the Draft Proposed Program of the 11th National Outer Continental Shelf Oil and Gas Leasing Program, which proposes multiple lease sales in the Gulf beginning later in the decade.

Many comments reference the eastern Gulf planning areas — including Program Area B — because the proposal could move leasing closer to Florida than historically allowed, raising concerns about impacts on tourism, fisheries and coastal ecosystems along the state’s west coast.

Here’s a sampling of comments from the docket focused on our region:

Richard Maggio of Bradenton: “Leave the oil there. If in 50 years our grandchildren decide they can’t do without it, let them decide then.”

Tampa Bay Waterkeeper: “Tampa Bay Waterkeeper demands no new leases in the Gulf. We are adamantly opposed to the 11th National OCS Oil and Gas Leasing Draft Proposed Program. We believe that the draft program fails to adequately conduct an Environmental Impact Statement, or a thorough environmental review process to identify and properly communicate potential harmful impacts.”

Kendal Jackson of Tampa: “It is imperative that absolutely ZERO petroleum prospection or mining occur on the Florida Shelf! The people of Florida have resoundingly opposed any petroleum extraction operations in the eastern Gulf. Even the consideration of such operation by BOEM and other agencies represents blatant disregard for the state’s political autonomy, economic livelihood, public health, and natural resources.”

Dustin Pack of Tampa Bay: “As a fishing guide in Tampa Bay, I rely on a healthy estuary and healthy coastline to provide for my family. There is no upside, would only create a ticking time bomb off our coast.”

Haylie Corcho of Tampa: “BOEM should stop offering any new oil and gas leases and instead focus on policies that protect coastal communities, support cheap, reliable clean energy, and hold oil and gas companies accountable for the damage they’ve already caused. When we protect our ocean, it protects us, provides us with food, and supports millions of jobs.”

Joy

Spradley of Manatee County: “Manatee County

Prime skywatching conditions set stage for star party

Amateur astronomers will set up telescopes at Robinson Preserve’s Expansion 8-10 p.m. Saturday, March 21, for a free public stargazing event.

The Suncoast Stargazers, in partnership with Manatee County, are hosting the event as part of their ongoing effort to bring astronomy to the public.

Attendees can peer through Stargazers members’ high-powered telescopes, learn to identify stars and other celestial objects and pick up tips for stargazing on their own.

The timing could hardly be better.

March 21 falls just after the new moon, meaning skies will be exceptionally dark — conditions astronomers consider among the most favorable of the year for deep-sky observing.

Also, the annual Messier Marathon — an attempt to view all 110 of astronomer Charles Messier’s catalogued deep-sky objects in a single night — takes place around March 21, beginning after sunset at dark-sky sites, with observers in mid-latitude Northern Hemisphere locations having the best chance to catch the full suite.

Among the showpieces potentially visible through telescopes that night are the Orion Nebula and the

aME secondgrader claire

Johnson wades into the bay waters behind the school during class and displays marine life collected in her dip net. Students worked with around the Bend Nature Tours to study animals living in the coastal habitat.

resident. Florida native. Do not drill in the Gulf.”

Now that the public is on the record, what comes next?

The U.S. Bureau of Ocean Energy Management will review the comments and revise the proposed leasing program, which must be approved by the Interior Department to become final.

Before any lease sale occurs, BOEM must complete analyses evaluating potential impacts to marine ecosystems, fisheries, tourism and coastal communities.

If an area remains in the program after environmental review and lease sales are held, companies that

Skygazers gather for an astronomy event in 2023 at robinson Preserve’s Expansion. another astronomy night will be 8-10 p.m. Saturday, March 21. Islander File Photo:

The expansion is at 10299 Ninth Ave. NW,

denton. Parking is free.

For more information, call 941-748-4501. — Lisa Neff

A classroom like no other

Elementary second-grader Julian

displays a sea star collected behind the school while wading in anna Maria Sound during an estuary study March 6 with around the Bend Nature Tours.

win leases must submit to BOEM an exploration plan describing seismic testing, drilling locations and safety measures — and receive the agency’s approval before proceeding.

If exploration finds commercially viable oil or gas, companies must then seek approval of a plan for drilling platforms, pipelines and production operations.

The full timeline from leasing program approval to any actual production should span a few years and multiple layers of federal review — meaning the fate of the eastern Gulf could be shaped as much by future administrations, legal challenges and market forces as by decisions being made today.

Sponsorship opportunities

Organizers of the Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce Golf Tournament and the Rotary Club’s Reel for Rotary Fishing Tournament are seeking sponsors ahead of the back-to-back May dates.

The chamber will host its annual Golf Tournament Friday, May 8, at IMG Academy Golf Club in Bradenton, benefiting the nonprofit’s scholarship fund.

The next morning, Saturday, May 9, Rotary launches its Reel for Rotary Annual Fishing Tournament, raising money for disaster relief, Anna Maria Elementary and the local Learn to Swim program.

Together, the two events offer area businesses a concentrated couple of days of high-visibility community investment.

On the green

The chamber tournament tees off with registration and lunch at 12:30 p.m., followed by a shotgun start at 1:30 p.m. at IMG Academy Golf Club, 4350 El Conquistador Parkway, Bradenton.

Golfer registration covers golf, lunch, a gift bag, green fees, cart fees, beer and beverages on the course, and dinner. Non-golfers can attend the banquet.

Sponsorship packages range from $150 Green level — which earns a name listing in the tournament program — all the way up to the $2,500 Presenting

BEACHFRONT LOT Located at the north end of Anna Maria on Tampa Bay. 25,000+ square foot buildable beachfront parcel. $4,900,000.

BAYFRONT OPEN WATER Build your dream home on a quiet street directly on the Intracoastal Waterway OR reimagine this great 2/2 groundlevel with great “bones.” $1,575,000.

Tanks for the upgrade an equipment operator excavates the fueling area at the service station at 5424 Marina Drive, holmes Beach, formerly known locally as Jessie’s Island Store, as crews prepare for the installation of new underground fuel tanks March 11. The work is part of a city-permitted renovation project being performed by aEc Services Inc. at the aTcO Inc.-owned property.

sponsorship.

A vendor option allows companies to set up a tent on the course during the tournament to promote their business and interact with golfers.

On the water

On May 9, anglers will hit the water at 6 a.m. for the Reel for Rotary fishing tournament, followed by an awards banquet at Cortez Kitchen, 4528 119th St. W., Cortez, at 4 p.m.

Rotary’s sponsorship tiers are named for fish species and scale from the $250 Mullet level — which includes social media recognition and a mention in the tournament guide — up to the $5,000 Marlin level, which provides four angler registrations, a full-page ad in the tournament guide, a reserved table at the banquet, prominent banner placement and a large logo on tournament shirts.

For sponsorship and registration in the Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce golf tournament, call 941-778-1541 or info@amichamber.org.

For sponsorship and registration in the Rotary Club of Anna Maria’s Island Reel for Rotary Annual Fishing Tournament, go to ami-reelforrotary.square. site.

— Lisa Neff

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

Workers prepare new tanks for installation March 12 at 5424 Marina Drive in holmes Beach, the location known locally as a Shell gas station and Jessie’s Island Store. The tank replacement and canopy upgrade are part of a $700,000 commercial remodel permitted by the city. according to the city, aTcO Inc., the property owner, also has applied for a site plan review to expand the convenience store. Islander Photos: robert anderson

NEXT WAVE RESTORATION

nextwavecleanup.com email: nextwavecleanup@gmail.com 561-725-2311

Mike Sales

Live! AMI! Music!

Who’s playing where?

All things considered, we’re midway into a chill spring break. Sure, venues are packed, but people just seem more patient this year — and generous, too. No kidding, keep those big tips coming.

Mademoiselle Paris, 9906 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria, mademoiselleparis.com. Chuck Davis, 5:308:30 p.m. Friday-Saturday. Harry’s Grill, 9903 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria, harrysgrillami.com. Pamela K Ward 6-8:30 p.m. Thursday-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, Holmes Beach, uglygrouper.com. Joe Wood noon-3 p.m., Raquel Santana 5-8 p.m. Wednesday; Chris Warner noon-3 p.m., Rob Viola 5-8 p.m. Thursday; Cody Moore noon-3 p.m., GulfCoastinLife 5-8 p.m. Friday; Paul Dudrich noon-3 p.m., Zion 5-8 p.m. Saturday; Scotty Mac noon-3 p.m., Cam Stockton 5-8 p.m. Sunday; Chad Tallman noon-3 p.m., Miguel Lantigua 5-8 p.m. Monday; Marko Coconut noon-3 p.m., Justin Layman 5-8 p.m. Tuesday.

Anna Maria Island Beach Cafe, 4000 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, 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; Tim McCaig 5-8 p.m. Saturday; Harold Antoine 5-8 p.m. Sunday; Bobby Stillwell 5-8 p.m. Monday; John Reynolds & Scott Blum 5-8 p.m. Tuesday.

Wicked Cantina, 101 Seventh St. N., Bradenton Beach, wickedcantina.com. Ross David 6-9 p.m. Wednesday; Jason Hedges 6-9 p.m. Thursday; Hi Fi Drifters 2-5 p.m., Ross David 6-9 p.m. Friday; Hi Fi Drifters 2-5 p.m., Ken Macy 6-9 p.m. Saturday; Hi Fi Drifters 2-5 p.m., Daniel Kincaid 6-9 p.m. Sunday; Mike Sales 6-9 p.m. Monday; Ken Macy 6-9 p.m. Tuesday.

Island Time Bar and Grill, 111 Gulf Drive S., Bradenton Beach, islandtimebarandgrill.com. Taylor Opie 6:30-9:30 p.m. Wednesday; Jim Taylor 7-10 p.m. Thursday; The Stockton Brothers 7-10 p.m. Friday; The Band Castelli 7-10 p.m. Saturday; Doug Deming and the Jewel Tones 6:30-9:30 p.m. Sunday; Charles Parker 6:30-9:30 p.m. Monday; Adam Hocker 6:309:30 p.m. Tuesday.

Coquina Beach Market, 1800 Gulf Drive S., Bradenton Beach, coquinabeachmarket.org, Mike

At the old airfield

Local Midge Pippel, an artist who displays work at the artists’ Guild Gallery, reaches for the struts of an airplane wing in a mural in holmes Beach city Field, 5800 block of Marina Drive. Local artist Joan Voyles shared the shot, suggesting the location for tourist photos. The mural, created in 2023 by Drake arnold with funding from the rex hagen Foundation, commemorates the former airfield at the location. Islander courtesy Photo

Sales 10-2 p.m. Wednesday; Chuck Davis 10-2 p.m. Friday.

Swordfish Grill, 4628 119th St. W., Bradenton, swordfishgrillcortez.com. Ted Stevens 5-8 p.m. Thursday; Terry Helm 5-8 p.m. Friday; Tim Chandler noon-4 p.m., Frankie Lombardi 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. Open Mic 2:30-5:30 p.m. Saturday.

88 Live Piano Bar, 6640 Cortez Road W., Bradenton. 88livebradenton.com. Eric Von 7-10 p.m. Wednesday; Billy Rice Band 7-10 p.m. Thursday; Dueling Pianos featuring Brandon & Jordan 8-11:30

share

isl biz news

The Islander welcomes business news, including announcements of expansions, achievements, openings, special events and more. Please, email news@islander. org with notices and contact info.

Out & about Vacationing on, about AMI?

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

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

Your snapshots help capture the energy of our community and support the small businesses that make the island special.

Submit photos to news@islander.org with names of people pictured, location, date the photo was taken and a contact name, phone number and email.

— Lisa Neff

Island Players to host songwriter night

The Island Players theater will host a “Songwriters in the Round” performance Sunday, March 29. The show begins at 7:30 p.m., with doors opening at 7 p.m., and will feature music performed by singersongwriters Dean Johanesen, Emily Roff and Mike Sales, an Islander contributor.

Organizers described the event as an intimate performance where the artists will share original songs and stories behind their music.

Tickets are $12 general admission, $16 preferred seating and $20 premium seating.

The theater is at 10009 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria. For tickets or information, go to mikesales.ticketspice.com/island-players-songwriter-series.

p.m. Friday-Saturday; Eagles Tribute Band The Long Run 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; Aurora Five 6-10 p.m. Friday; Cabana Dogs 5-9 p.m. Saturday; Dr. Dave Band 3-7 p.m. Sunday, Dos Gringos Tuesday.

Be sure to say, “Hi,” if you wind up where I’m playing!

Mike Sales is a singer/songwriter. His website is mikesalesmusic.com

FOR SALE

CORNER SHELF: METAL, $99, White wicker, four shelves, $60, vintage oak library table, $100. 816-721-5524.

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

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

LOOKING FOr aN EarLY BIrD? You can read Wednesday’s classifieds on Tuesday at islander.org. and it’s FrEE!

ANNOUNCEMENTS Continued

PrIVaTE aNNa MarIa Island Dolphin Tours, Sunset c ruises and sandbar tours for up to twelve passengers with Manatee r iver Boat r entals and Water Sports. Visit us online: Dolphin Tours https://manateeriverwatersports.com/dolphin-tours-bradenton Sunset cruises, https://manateeriverwatersports.com/sunset-cruises-bradento n Sandbar tours, manateeriverwatersports. com/sandbar-tours-bradenton

GARAGE SALES

GARAGE SALE: 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday, March 21. Youth kayaks, bike, BBQ, bedding, towels, household items, jigsaws, games and much more. 505 Bayview Drive, Holmes Beach.

MULTIFAMILY YARD SALE: 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Friday and Saturday, March 20-21. Housewares, furniture, clothing, jewelry, coastal, exercise gear, more. 708 Gladiolus St., Anna Maria.

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: 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.

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

KIDS FOR HIRE

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

SERVICES

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

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

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

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

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

P c O r TE 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: c all or text Don, 941-900-9398. Free estimates. Fully insured, twenty years’ experience.

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

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

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

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

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

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

SERVICES Continued

acha UFFE r 4U FO r T ra NSPO rTaTION anywhere in Florida. Properly insured and over 40 years in Bradenton. Dennis, 941812-5930.

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

h OME WaT ch E r : W h EN you can’t be at home, I’ll watch your home and send video of my inspection. I’m a State certified residential a ppraiser with background check. 317-997-4056.

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.

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

BEACH SERVICE air conditioning, heat, refrigeration. Commercial and residential service, repair and/or replacement. Since 1987. 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.

G r IFFIN’S h OME IMP r OVEMENTS Inc. h andyman, fine woodwork, countertops, cabinets and wood flooring. Insured and licensed. 941-722-8792.

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

LOOKING FO r a NY home improvement? Jrcc home Improvement, handyman service can get the job done. Please, contact us at 413-246-2410. We would love to help.

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

DONaLD PErKINS PaINTING LLc. Interior/ exterior/pressure washing. Island references. dperkinspaint@hotmail.com. 941-705-7096.

HOME IMPROVEMENT Continued

GO r ILL a D rYWa LL r EPa I r LL c . Let’s solve your drywall problems together. Give us a call at 941-286-0607.

QUEEN BEE PaINTING: “We Do It royally.” Interior/exterior painting and pressure washing, pool decks, garage floors, cabinets, popcorn ceiling and wallpaper removal, drywall, door and trim install and repair, window cleaning. Sheryl, 864-884-3380.

TETI TILE: 40 years’ experience in Delaware, now on a MI and surrounds. Tile, marble, murals. Free estimates. call John Teti, 302983-5774.

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

SOUTHWEST HOME IMPROVEMENT: Michigan builder, quality work guaranteed. Affordable, timely, within budget. Call Mike’s cell, 1-616-204-8822.

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 . 941-7783143.

AVAILABLE NOW AND season: 1BR/1BA, seven-night minimum. carlesvacationrentals. com Special rates 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, 859-771-6423.

ANNUAL RENTALS AVAILABLE: Off Island: Perico Isle, 3BR/2BA unfurnished pool home, two-car garage, $3,100/month. Hidden Lake, 3BR/2BA furnished condo, $3,100/ month. All require application, first, last and security. Wagner Realty, 941-778-2246.

cENTraL hOLMES BEach, 3Br/2Ba completely remodeled, walk to beach, school, trolley, shopping. a nnual, reduced from $2,595 to $2,395/month. 941-713-6743.

ANNUAL RENTAL: HOLMES Beach. One block to beach. Duplex unit B. 2BR/1BA completely renovated. No smoking/no pets. Water/trash included. $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.

COZY 2BR/1BA ANNUAL rental: Unfurnished north Holmes Beach, ground-level, backyard, five-minute walk to beach, washer/dryer hookup, no dishwasher, no smoking/no pets. $2,600/month plus utilities. 941-447-9672.

REAL ESTATE

WINNIE M cha LE, r E a LTO r , 941-5046146. Dalton Wade real Estate. You need an aggressive and experienced r ealtor in today’s market! Selling island homes, Sarasota and Bradenton areas. Multi-milliondollar producer! “Selling h omes - Making Dreams come True.”

B ra DENTON c ONDO FO r sale: Newly updated, fully furnished, 2B r /2B a , 1,100 sf. c arport, patio and docking available. $219,000. call 941-704-9432.

PaLMa SOLa ShOrES: Land-owned park. 55 and older community. Manufactured home, 2B r /2B a 1,058 sf. Fully furnished. Four miles from a MI. $245,000. 443-5232973.

A1 REMODEL: FLOOR-to-ceiling, everything new. Open kitchen, solid counter tops, 2BR/2BA. Windowed lanai, garden view. Community heated pool and spa. Pickleball and tennis. $227,000. Real Estate Mart, 941-3561456.