The Islander Newspaper E-Edition Wednesday, August 5 2026

OPINIONS, PAGE 6

Top Notch:

Fishing for breakfast

Terry martsolf of seminole captured this photo in march at coquina Beach in Bradenton Beach. He wrote, “An old friend is waiting on breakfast!” martsolf is the fourth weekly winner in The islander’s 2026 Top Notch photo contest. There will be two more weekly winners to claim Page 1 placement in the newspaper. All the weekly winners will be entered into the grand prize round, which offers $100 from The islander and gift certificates from islander advertisers.

want to enter? email entries to topnotch@islander.org. each original JPg must be submitted in a single email, along with the photographer’s name, the date the photo was taken, the location, a description, the names of any recognizable people and the photographer’s address and phone number. complete rules are at islander.org.

Rainbow patrol

Anna maria island Turtle watch volunteer Bob Haynes takes in a rainbow that forms on a stormy day the week ending July 31. Haynes waited out a storm in a parking garage before returning to the beach. For news about nesting season on Ami, go to page 16. islander

Photo: courtesy AmiTw/Bill Booher

Welcome back, AME family

island artist cory wright stands July 23 beside a mural she painted at Anna maria elementary school, 4700 gulf drive, Holmes Beach. Featuring the school’s dolphin mascot, FiN, the mural welcomes students, faculty and staff for the 2026-27 school year. Teachers and staff returned to campus Aug. 3. students will follow on Aug. 10. islander

Photo: courtesy colleen gellar

Top Notch Local captains continue fight against poachers

By robert Anderson islander reporter

Years of documenting suspected illegal shellfish harvesting by a coalition of tour boat captains operating in Sarasota Bay helped the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission cite suspected marine-life poachers July 28 following an investigation near the South Coquina Beach boat ramp.

The citation was the result of work by the Habitat Guardian Group, an informal coalition of tour boat captains and volunteers formed in 2023 after members spent more than a year documenting suspected illegal shellfish and marine species harvesting.

The group was founded by Capt. Joey Sweet of Sweet Sunsets and Dolphin Tours, Capt. Katie Tupin of Captain Katie Scarlett Boat Tours, Capt. Bruce Adamo of Passage Key Dolphin Tours, and Matt and Beth Wright of Island Time Boat Tours.

Sweet has described the organization as a “neighborhood watch for the water,” documenting suspected violations and relaying information to the FWC.

Tupin said July 29 that the day before she recognized two suspected poachers from previous encounters and called the FWC after watching them repeatedly carry shellfish from the water in their shirts, deposit them in buckets beside their parked vehicle at the South Coquina Beach boat ramp in Bradenton Beach and return to collect more.

According to Tupin, an FWC officer was only a few minutes away when she called. Knowing officers were on the way, she asked her husband, Jeff Smith, who was onshore, to follow the suspects’ vehicle after it left the boat ramp while she remained on the water and directed the responding officer to its location.

Smith continued following the vehicle until the officer made contact. Tupin said the encounter resulted in at least one citation.

“I’ve seen these two men at the South Coquina Boat Ramp many, many times before,” Tupin said. “It’s nice that something finally happened.”

The Islander submitted a public records request July 29 seeking the citation and investigative records associated with the July 28 incident. Those records were not provided as of Islander presstime Aug. 3.

Back to school: AME Dolphins returning to class

Anna Maria Elementary School is ready to make a splash as students and families head back for the 2026-27 school year, with an open house set for Thursday, Aug. 6, and the first day of class arriving Monday, Aug. 10.

Families can meet teachers and visit classrooms during two open house sessions Aug. 6. Kindergarten through second-grade students, along with VPK families with last names A-M, are scheduled from 4:30-5:15 p.m. Students in grades 3-5 and VPK families with last names N-Z will attend from 5:15-6 p.m.

Class placements were to be emailed Aug. 4 and school supply lists are available on the school’s website.

AME’s school days will begin at 8:25 a.m. and PleAse, see AME CLASSES, PAge 13

Checking in on HB campaign funding

By ryan Paice islander reporter

Three months remain until November’s general election.

And the funding races between electoral candidates in Holmes Beach is just gearing up.

Through July 24, the city’s five candidates in two races had recorded $10,751.11 in contributions and expenditures, according to the Manatee County Supervisor of Elections Office. That is $6,050.30 more than had been recorded through P2, which ended June 26.

Voters will cast ballots Tuesday, Nov. 3.

The election includes a contest between Holmes Beach Commissioner Dan Diggins and former Commissioner David Zaccagnino for the mayoral post, which Mayor Judy Titsworth will relinquish when her term expires this year.

The other race is between Commissioner Carol Whitmore and newcomers Mark Hebden and John Azzata. The top two votegetters in the commission race will take the seats, one currently held by Whitmore and one currently held by Diggins.

So far, the candidates have been required to report campaign contributions and expenditures from Q2, which spans April 1-May 31, through P5, which covers July 18-24.

The deadline to submit P5 financial reports was midnight July 31, after The Islander’s press deadline. However, P5 reports were available for everyone but Whitmore on the SEO website, votemanatee.gov, by the close of business July 31.

Here are the reported campaign finances:

Mayoral contest

Diggins leads in financial activity, with $2,450 in campaign contributions and $1,100.30 in expenditures.

That marks a $1,350 increase in contributions and an $813.50 increase in expenditures since P2.

Of the new contributions, $100 comes from retired Holmes Beach resident Donald Hurff and $250 comes from City Commissioner Terry Schaefer. The remaining $1,000 is a loan from Diggins himself.

For expenditures, $540 was spent on campaign ads in The Islander and $273.50 was paid to Bradenton-

based Daniel P Salty Printing for campaign shirts. Diggins also amended his statement of financial interests form July 7 to add a second property.

Zaccagnino has reported no additional financial activity since P2, according to the SEO.

Zaccagnino’s only recorded contribution remains a $500 personal loan from himself and his only expenditure is the $286.80 filing fee.

Commission contest

Azzata has been busy since P2, when he recorded $500 in contributions and $82.10 in expenditures.

He has since reported $1,350 in additional campaign contributions and $650 in expenditures.

The new contributions include a $500 check from retired St. Petersburg resident Gerald Goff, a $500 check from Richard Motzer, a $250 check from James Carver and a $100 check from Diane Kerr. Motzer, Carver and Kerr are retired Holmes Beach residents.

On the expenditure side, Azzata spent $650 on a deposit for digital advertising with Bradenton-based Local Ad Face.

On his statement of financial interests, Azzata reported ownership of no real property, but listed five primary sources of income: Social Security benefi ts, a pension through the New York state pension system, two certificates of deposit funds with New York-based NCPD Credit Union and Holmes Beach-based Hancock Whitney, as well as deferred compensation from Pennsylvania-based Empower.

Under liabilities, which are major debts valued over $10,000, Azzata listed Truist Bank in Bradenton as his single creditor.

Otherwise, he listed no interests in specified businesses and zero secondary sources of income.

Hebden has not recorded new expenditures since P2, when he reported $85.61 in campaign costs, but his campaign has raised an additional $1,500 in contributions.

All of the new contributions were reported during P5 and include a $1,000 personal loan from himself and a $500 check from Holmes Beach retiree Renee Ferguson.

Through P5, Hebden reported $1,800 in total campaign contributions.

Election 2026

Early voting begins Aug. 8

Early voting will begin Saturday, Aug. 8, and continue through Sunday, Aug. 16, for the primaries, which include contests for federal, state and county offices, as well as school board.

The nearest early voting location to the island is G.T. Bray, 5502 33rd Ave. Drive W., Bradenton. Early voting hours will be 8:30 a.m.-6 p.m.

The primaries will be Tuesday, Aug. 18, with polls open 7 a.m.-7 p.m.

Other dates on the 2026 election calendar:

• General election vote-by-mail ballots sent, Sept. 24.

• General election registration deadline, Monday, Oct. 5.

• General vote-by-mail ballot request deadline, Thursday, Oct. 22.

• General early voting, Monday, Oct. 19-Sunday, Nov. 1.

• General election, Tuesday, Nov. 3.

— lisa Neff

Ask about the issues: Got a question you want The Islander to ask in a local race, email your question and concern to news@islander.org.

According to his statement of financial interests, Hebden has six primary sources of income: Orlando-based architectural- engineering consulting firm Robers Lovelock Fritz, Social Security benefits, investment dividends and/or interests through Sarasota-based Schwab and two IRA investment accounts with Schwab, as well as interest on a mortgage loan to Michigan residents Matt and Emily Dewit.

He also listed 34 items under the form’s intangible personal property category, which entails stocks, bonds and CD funds over $10,000.

That includes 19 stocks and 12 bonds through his Schwab investment account.

Hebden listed zero secondary sources of income, no real property, no liabilities and no interests in specified businesses.

Despite reporting the largest total of contributions and expenditures through P2, $1,846.30, Whitmore has only reported $100 in additional expenditures since her previous report.

That $100 was paid to Bradenton-based LFG Logistics for “collaterals education,” according to the SEO.

Through P5, Whitmore reported a total of $1,600 in campaign contributions and $346.30 in expenditures.

On Whitmore’s statement of fi nancial interests form, she listed four primary sources of income: Social Security benefits, commission salary and retirement payments from the state and Pennsylvania-based Universal Health.

She listed zero secondary income sources, real property or interests in specified businesses, but listed an IRA account with California-based LPL Financial as intangible personal property.

Whitmore also listed three creditors under liabilities: Virginia-based Capital One Credit Card, Bradenton-based Suncoast Credit Union and New Jerseybased credit trader Laurent Renard.

Next: T-end work

Tampa Bay marine employees July 29 install a sleeper system for Kebony decking at the base of the Anna maria city Pier along the walkway. Anna maria mayor mark short told The islander July 29 that TBm was set to roll out protective matting on the walkway later in the week so Tangerine group could begin demolition and remediation work Aug. 3 on the T-end.

RoadWatch

Eyes on the road

Cortez Bridge and Cortez Road: Continuing through mid-August, concrete barriers are in the rights of way on the south side of Cortez Road West. Impacted streets include 124th Street West, 124th Street Court West, 125th Street West and Central Avenue, with barriers extending to just before 123rd Street Court West. Info: amiprojects.io, 941-306-4660.

75th Street West at Manatee Avenue West: Manatee County is working on 75th Street West improvements from 19th Avenue West to Second Avenue West in Bradenton. 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 will find buses to the mainland at the Coquina and Manatee Public beach hubs. There is no fare on MCAT. For more, go to mymanatee. org/mcat.

— lisa Neff

County storm recovery program deadline Sept. 30

Manatee County’s application window for the Lasting Manatee Home Recovery Program closes Sept. 30.

The program offers up to $250,000 for repairs and up to $450,000 for home replacement or elevation for applicants earning up to 120% of the area median income and living in the home.

Homeowners can apply at lastingmanatee.org, by calling 941-742-4787 or by seeking in-person assistance at the Lasting Manatee Intake Center, 1012 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton.

— lisa Neff

Cops & courts

HBPD makes DUI arrest

Holmes Beach police arrested B. Garrett Brown, 26, of Bradenton July 14 on a second-degree misdemeanor for allegedly driving under the influence of alcohol.

An officer located a motorist that another officer had flagged for driving suspiciously and saw him park in the empty Publix parking lot around 1:45 a.m.

The driver, later identified as Brown, exited the vehicle, so the officer pulled up and started a conversation. Brown displayed signs of impairment and failed field sobriety exercises. Two breath samples indicated 0.152 and 0.144 grams of alcohol per 210 liters of breath. The state’s legal blood alcohol level limit for driving under the influence is 0.08.

Brown was released from jail the same day as his arrest, after posting a $500 bond.

If convicted, punishment for a second-degree misdemeanor includes up to 60 days in jail.

An arraignment will be Aug. 20, at the Manatee County Judicial Center in Bradenton.

— ryan Paice

BAY POACHERS coNTiNued From PAge 1

HGG’s documentation helped support multiple FWC shellfi sh-poaching investigations in 2023 before activity slowed following hurricanes Helene and Milton. As recreational boating returned this year, members said they began seeing many of the same people and fresh evidence of suspected illegal harvesting.

“We’ve been reporting this activity and documenting it since we first started noticing it in 2022,” Sweet said July 28. “Here we are now in 2026. It’s the same boats. It’s the same people, and they’re back at it again.”

Members say they continue to find piles of discarded remains of marine invertebrates and have observed fewer horse conchs, lightning whelks, sea urchins and other marine life in areas they regularly take their charters.

For HGG members, the July 28 citation was notable because many previous reports through the spring and early summer ended without enforcement. Tupin said members have spent hours documenting suspected harvesting and repeatedly calling the FWC, only to see the suspected harvesters leave, often with hundreds of harvested animals, before an officer arrived.

Sweet, a former U.S. Coast Guardsman, said he understands the plight of marine law enforcement officers. He said the group does not fault FWC officers, who patrol vast stretches of coastline with limited resources.

“I don’t think we’re asking FWC officers to do something that’s impossible,” Sweet said. “We’re looking at asking our state and our local leaders to make

Adjudication withheld in Holmes Beach theft case

Twelfth Circuit Judge Frederick Mercurio ruled July 9 to withhold adjudication against Chris Hernandez-Licona, 20, of Bradenton, for a felony charge for grand theft.

Hernandez-Licona was arrested April 9 for stealing $1,083.98 from cash registers at his workplace, Alvin’s Island Store, 3602 E. Bay Drive, Holmes Beach. He was charged with a third-degree felony, which carries punishment of up to five years in prison.

At a July 9 hearing, Hernandez-Licona pleaded no contest, which means a defendant does not admit guilt but gives up the right to a trial.

Mercurio withheld adjudication, which allows the court to issue a sentence without a formal conviction.

Hernandez-Licona was sentenced to 18 months probation and 100 hours of community service.

Hernandez-Licona also is prohibited from returning to Alvin’s.

— ryan Paice

A broken lightning whelk shell, found July 26 off Jewfish Key by tour boat operators Katie Tupin and Jeff smith, who said they suspect it was illegally harvested.islander Photo: courtesy Jeff smith/ Katie Tupin

sure that they have enough people and equipment to do the job before our bay gets emptied out, one cooler at a time.”

He said the July 28 response demonstrated what can happen when officers are available to reach the scene before suspected harvesters leave.

Sweet said he would also like state offi cials to explore training county marine patrol deputies to assist FWC with fisheries enforcement.

“The question is whether or not Florida can give selected marine deputies the additional fisheries training, protocols and legal tools necessary to serve as that force multiplier for FWC,” Sweet said.

In the meantime, HGG members like Tupin said they intend to continue documenting suspected violations and hope more recreational boaters will help by reporting suspicious activity.

“We definitely need more people, even recreational boaters, to keep an eye out,” Tupin said.

Streetlife

Island police reports

By robert Anderson and ryan Paice

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

Anna Maria

July 26, 100 block of Los Cedros Drive, fire. MCSO deputies assisted another agency when an electric meter at a residence caught fire.

Bradenton Beach

No new reports.

Cortez

No new reports.

Holmes Beach

July 22, 3700 block of Sixth Avenue, trespass after warning. An HBPD officer found a man in a park who had been trespassed from the property. The offi cer arrested the man and transported him to the Manatee County jail.

July 24, 5800 block of Marina Drive, potential theft. A property manager alleged that a man evicted from a property stole a trailer and asked HBPD to trespass the man from the property. However, HBPD contacted the evicted man, who verifi ed the trailer belonged to him and a business partner.

July 25, 4000 block of Fifth Avenue, found firearm. The HBPD took a report of a handgun found in a rental property. An offi cer placed the handgun in storage.

Island watch

Call 911 in an emergency. Call the MCSO Anna Maria, 941-708-8899; BBPD, 941-778-6311; or HBPD, 941-708-5804.

HBPD arrests man for alleged trespassing, prowling

Holmes Beach police arrested Devon Guidry Jr., 30, July 22 on a third-degree felony charge for allegedly trespassing while wearing a mask and a misdemeanor charge for loitering/prowling.

Officers responded around 1:37 a.m. to a homeowner’s call about a man walking around his property in the 3000 block of Avenue F earlier that night.

Security video showed a man in a mask and HBPD found shoe/sandal prints.

Police searched the area but did not locate anyone.

An officer later found a suspect, Guidry, around 3:17 a.m. at the Manatee Public Beach, 4000 Gulf Drive. Guidry was wearing slides matching the shoe prints found at the trespassed property, according to a police report.

Guidry, described by HBPD as homeless, was arrested and taken to the Manatee County jail, where he remained as of July 29 with a $7,500 bond.

A trespassing charge would usually be a first-degree misdemeanor, but wearing a mask elevates the charge to third-degree felony.

If convicted, punishment for a third-degree felony charge includes up to five years in jail.

Punishment for a second-degree misdemeanor includes up to 60 days in jail.

An arraignment will be Sept. 4 at the Manatee County Judicial Center, 1051 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton.

— ryan Paice

wmFr bureau administrator

Jalex leissler staffs a table July 25 during the day 4 Hope event. He provided families at the event with district merchandise and material about fire safety.

islander

Photo: courtesy wmFr/ reporting: ryan Paice

west manatee Fire rescue district commissioner dana Tindall, right, hands out educational material July 25 at the day 4 Hope event at west Bradenton Baptist church in Bradenton. The event brings together organizations to provide school and safety supplies ahead of the school year, which will begin Aug. 10. wmFr commissioner Billy Burke also attended.

Anna Maria department heads project 26-27 spending, salaries

By ryan Paice islander reporter

Anna Maria’s spending plan for fiscal 2026-27 is rounding into form.

Department heads presented $17,988,491 in projected expenses for the upcoming fiscal year, which begins Oct. 1, during a July 30 budget workshop.

Commissioners Gary McMullen and Kathleen Morgan-Johnson attended the workshop at city hall.

Commissioners Christopher Arendt, John Lynch and Charlie Salem were remote participants.

City treasurer Randy Maxon noted that, as of his fourth pass at the budget, the projected spending plan would result in an $836,307 deficit.

That is worse than the $275,170 projected deficit from his third pass at the budget, despite a reduction in property insurance premiums.

Maxon identified the primary driver behind the increased deficit as the 3% addition — about $510,000 — to the city’s dwindling reserves.

He added that such a deficit was a part of the city’s budget building process and would not appear in the fi nal budget, which must balance expenditures and revenues.

Maxon also presented a $533,314 spending plan for the treasurer department. He said about $430,000 of that budget can be attributed to salaries and benefits — a third of which will go toward a new position focused on grant management and capital projects compliance.

Mayor Mark Short then presented a projected $696,657 budget for the city’s building department.

The city outsources its building department services to Tampa-based Joe Payne Inc., which is paid 49.5% of the city’s annual building permit fees.

With $1 million in projected building permit fees

for the upcoming fiscal year, JPI would earn $495,000 from permit fees and $84,000 for engineering services.

Short also presented a $349,127 projected budget for the commission, which includes salaries for elected officials.

The city will not increase salaries in fiscal 2026-27. The mayor is paid $19,600 annually and city commissioners are paid $4,800 a year, totaling $43,600 for the year.

Short added that the commission department’s budget would contain attorney fees and lobbying costs, including $180,000 to the Winter Park-based Vose Law Firm for legal services and $60,000 to Tallahasseebased Corcoran Partners for lobbying services. Those expenses were previously allocated elsewhere throughout the budget.

Lastly, Short presented a $270,046 projected budget for the parks and recreation department. He said a portion of the department’s spending plan would be from impact fees, but the majority would be paid using ad valorem property tax revenue.

The parks and rec budget includes $137,001 to fund special events, headlined by $45,000 for citywide holiday lighting, $16,000 for eight community block parties, $15,000 for Veterans Day, $14,000 to sponsor Bayfest and $10,000 for an event to celebrate the opening of the rebuilt city pier.

Next, deputy clerk Barbara Jeffries presented a $267,523 budget for the clerk department. That marks a decrease from the $557,826 spending plan this year. The decrease can be attributed to $113,308 less in salaries and wages, $42,344 less in health insurance costs, as well as the reallocation of attorney, lobbyist and property insurance expenses.

City clerk Amber LaRowe then presented a $67,675 projected spending plan for a new human resources department. LaRowe said that, prior to this

year, human resources was primarily an administrative function. Now it is a standalone department.

City planner Ashley Austin then presented a $442,001 projected budget for the municipality’s community development planning department — about $15,000 less than this year’s budget.

Code enforcement manager Tom Collins presented a $623,357 projected spending plan for his department. That is a nearly $250,000 decrease from the department’s $870,827 budget for fiscal 2025-26, even though it is now in charge of handling vacation rental inspection and registration activities.

Finally, public works general manager Dean Jones presented a $908,145 projected budget for his department. It would be a $281,367 decrease from this year’s public works spending plan — which totaled $1,189,512 — due to reductions of about $34,000 in health insurance and $108,000 in property insurance costs, as well as $109,000 less for contracted services.

The city has two more budget workshops — one on citywide expenses at 10 a.m. Thursday, Aug. 6, and another on capital projects and the city’s five-year plan at 10 a.m. Tuesday, Aug. 11.

The first public hearing for a tentative budget ordinance will be at 5:01 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 8.

A second reading and potentially final hearing will be at 5:01 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 23.

All workshops and hearings will be at city hall, 10005 Gulf Drive.

Milestones

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

NOW OFFERING PERMANENT JEWELRY ! Plan now!

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

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

Again?

Yes. It’s back-to-school time again.

And I’m sure there are parents and families everywhere — and kids, too — rejoicing over the beginning of another year of classes, learning, recess, lunch, sports, art, music, STEM and, for Anna Maria Elementary students, the Guy Harvey Academy of Arts and Sciences — learning combined with marine-related subjects.

Perfect for a bayfront school.

For myself, I’m particularly excited to take part in my third generation of schooling at AME, as my greatgranddaughter begins a year of pre-kindergarten.

My kids went to AME in the 1970s, my granddaughter in the 2000s, and now June, my great-granddaughter.

Yes. Again!

June really likes to emphasize: AGAIN!?

And don’t forget, the school speed zone on Gulf Drive will be enforced by cameras starting with the first day of classes, Aug. 10.

Shortly after the start of school, we will vote in the Aug. 18 primary election with candidates vying for placement on the Nov. 3 general election ballot. Maybe, like me, you already voted by mail.

Another challenge closer to home and with an earlier deadline, is the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ decisionmaking on whether a developer can build an 8- to 10-foot wall on Sarasota Bay.

The applicant, Carlos Beruff, is proposing a project titled Sea Spray, but Cortez, Anna Maria islanders and more have fought his plans by other names for years: Long Bar Pointe and Aqua by the Sea.

Beruff’s plan will destroy a swath of bayfront mangroves, marine nurseries and wetlands near Cortez.

But you only have a few days to speak up. Public comment on the permit closes Aug. 7.

Have your say: Go to scwk.good.do/savethelastwetlands/act/ or email the senior project manager at edgar.w.garcia@usace.army.mil. Remember to reference the permit number SAJ-2015-01503.

Among other challenges, you may want to review budget plans for the island cities (Read this issue and online at islander.org) as spending seems to be on the rise — and all owing to the rise in property values after the 2024 hurricanes.

OpinionOur Opinion

But will the state win its proposal to slash homestead property taxes in November? And, if so, what then happens to the city budgets? Will they glide by on high taxes for vacation homes?

And, yes, again, we hope you can help The Islander ride out the economic storm in the local business community by contributing to our GoFundMe campaign.

We thank you for reading and for your kindness. — Bonner Joy, news@islander.org

Your

Prevent coastal destruction

We need your help by Aug. 7.

A proposal before the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers could impact one of the most important remaining mangrove wetlands in Sarasota Bay.

We hope you’ll take just a few minutes to submit a comment asking the Corps to deny the permit unless the project is redesigned to protect these irreplaceable wetlands.

The Islander Poll

This week’s question

The anniversary of the unsolved 1980 Kingfish Boat ramp killings was Aug. 1. Four people were killed that afternoon 46 years ago. what do you think happened?

A. Random killing.

B. A spree killing.

C. Revenge killing.

D. A political hit.

To answer the poll, go to islander.org.

▼ 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

▼ Advertising Sales ads@islander.org

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

▼ Distribution urbane Bouchet ross roberts

Judy loden wasco

▼ Webmaster wayne Ansell All others: info@islander.org

Long Bar Pointe, led by Carlos Beruff, is seeking permission to fill more than 3 acres of wetlands and construct an 8- to 10-foot seawall adjacent to a mature mangrove forest.

Last week’s question, results what’s the most urgent environmental threat facing Anna maria island?

The proposed development includes 2,468 residential units and 200,000 square feet of commercial space on a 460-acre site — leaving ample opportunity to redesign the project without placing these sensitive wetlands at risk.

The developer proposes to offset the destruction through a mitigation bank, claiming that restoring wetlands more than 70 miles away on Pine Island compensates for the loss here in Sarasota Bay. Many environmental experts and community members believe this proposal does not satisfy the intent of state and federal wetland protections, particularly given the potential impacts of placing a massive seawall directly beside one of Sarasota Bay’s most valuable mangrove systems.

The Army Corps of Engineers has the authority to require changes or deny this permit. Public comments are an important part of that decision-making process, and a strong community response can make a real difference.

Please, submit your comments by Aug. 7 by email to edgar.w.garcia@usace.army.mil or by post to U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Attn: Edgar W. Garcia, senior project manager, 10117 Princess Palm Ave., Suite 120, Tampa, FL 33610.

Cortez Village Historical Society, Cortez

• Beach erosion and rising sea levels. 42%

• Water quality, including algae blooms. 32%

• Plastic and litter pollution. 13%

• Tree loss and destruction. 12%

Skimming online

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Letters to the editor

Got an opinion to share?

Write to The Islander at news@islander.org.

Whether you’re fired up about a development proposal, delighted by a sunset over the Gulf or have a complaint about traffic, your voice belongs on this page. Send letters with name, address and phone number to news@islander.org. Only the name and city are published.

Looking back

Grand day

manatee county Public library system

Connections

Anna Maria: Mayor Mark Short; 941-708-6130; 10005 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria FL 34216; cityofannamaria. com.

Bradenton Beach: Mayor John Chappie; 941778-1005; 107 Gulf Drive N., Bradenton Beach FL 34217; 941-778-1005, cityofbradentonbeach.org.

Holmes Beach: Mayor Judy Titsworth; 941-7085800; 5801 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach FL 34217; holmesbeachfl.org.

10-20-30 years ago

In the headlines: Aug. 1, 1996

• Anna Maria commissioners discussed changing the alcoholic beverage ordinance to criminalize violations. A civil fine of $55 for open containers of alcohol on the beach was not a deterrent, commissioners said. They proposed making the violation a second-degree misdemeanor.

• Cortezians said no to a proposed enterprise zone for the fishing village and Manatee County commissioners agreed not to pursue the special district.

• An Anna Maria committee proposed more research into the feasibility of creating “resident-only” parking for the public beaches.

• The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service planned to close more of Egmont Key to protect nesting birds.

In the headlines: Aug. 2, 2006

• After Harry’s Continental Kitchens’ owners declined the city’s offer, Bradenton Beach commissioners invited Rotten Ralph’s of Anna Maria to open a restaurant on the Historic Bridge Street Pier. Ralph’s agreed to pay an $8,000 per month franchise fee.

Manatee County: Commissioner Tal Siddique, District 3, tal@mymanatee.org, 941-398-4729.

Florida Senate: Sen. Jim Boyd; 941-742-6445; boyd.jim.web@flsenate.gov.

Florida House: Rep. William Cloud “Will” Robinson Jr., District 71; 941-708-4968; will.robinson@ myfloridahouse.gov.

U.S. House: U.S. Rep. Vern Buchanan, District 16; 941-747-9081; buchanan.house.gov.

U.S. Senate: Ashley Moody, 202-224-3041; moody.senate.gov; and Sen. Rick Scott, 813- 2257040; rickscott.senate.gov.

• Anna Maria Elementary students were preparing for the start of the 2006-07 school year. For the first time in some years, AME was adding a 16th class of students. AME also was adopting the district dress code, which prohibited sunglasses, hats, unbuckled belts, exposed midriffs and ill-fitting warmups.

From the Aug. 3, 2016, issue

• A lightning strike was blamed for a blaze that burned an estimated 79 acres of land on Egmont Key, a historic island located at the mouth of Tampa Bay, featuring a functioning 1858 lighthouse, the ruins of a 19th-century military fort, and a protected wildlife refuge. It took firefighters nearly three days to fully extinguish the fire. — lisa Neff

County approves environmental lands referendum for Nov. ballot

By dawn Kitterman

The Bradenton Times

Manatee County commissioners voted unanimously July 28 to place a ballot referendum before voters that would provide additional long-term funding for environmental lands acquisition, improvement and maintenance if approved in November.

Resolution R-26-095 was approved by commissioners 6-0, directing the county supervisor of elections to place the measure on the general election ballot.

The referendum will ask voters to decide whether to authorize up to $75 million in general obligation bonds and an additional 0.16-mill ad valorem tax levy to fund the acquisition, improvement and maintenance of environmental lands throughout the county.

Earlier this year, the commission asked the Trust for Public Land to evaluate options for expanding dedicated conservation funding. Following the presentation of the organization’s 2026 Conservation Finance Feasibility Study in May, commissioners directed staff to prepare ballot language for voter consideration.

The proposal builds on the county’s environmental lands program, which voters established in 2020 when they approved a referendum authorizing up to $50 million in bonds and a 0.15-mill property tax for conservation and park projects. That measure passed with about 71% of the vote.

If approved, the funds would be used to acquire land, conservation easements and other property interests to help protect drinking water sources, improve water quality, preserve fish and wildlife habitat, safeguard environmentally sensitive lands from development and expand the county’s system of public preserves, according to county staff.

Since 2023, the environmental lands program has acquired more than 300 acres of conservation land, created two county preserves, expanded four existing preserves, enlarged one county park and partnered with the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services to permanently protect 1,483 acres through

rural land protection easements.

According to the resolution item’s coversheet, unlike the referendum approved by voters in 2020, the proposed 2026 measure would expressly allow county funding to be used for “acquisition of any and all lands, easements, and other property interests” in addition to fee-simple land purchases, providing greater flexibility for partnerships with agencies such as the Florida Department of Agriculture and conservation organizations.

The measure includes accountability provisions outlined in the resolution, including annual public audits, public disclosure of expenditures, acquisitions from willing sellers only, and consultation with the

Fast break

center of Anna maria island summer camper Julian Feiner, 8, rides a skimboard July 20 across shallow water at the beach during a specialty camp over the eighth and second-to-last week of summer camp. islander

Photos: courtesy cofAmi/ reporting: ryan Paice

county’s environmental lands management and acquisition committee on land acquisitions and maintenance programs.

According to the 2025 Florida Department of Revenue Ad Valorem Valuation and Tax Data Book, a 0.15-mill tax would cost about $47 annually for a home with a taxable value of $300,000. The proposed referendum, if approved, would levy an additional 0.16 mills, slightly more than the 0.15-mill example cited in the state valuation data.

Editor’s note: This story fi rst published on The Bradenton Times website at thebradentontimes.com and is republished with permission from TBT. It was edited for length.

compiled by lisa Neff, calendar@islander.org

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

ON AMI

Wednesday, Aug. 12

2 p.m. and 4 p.m. — “Baseball in Paradise” book-signing and lecture with Pasquale Carlucci, Center of Anna Maria Island, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria. Info: 941-778-1908. 6:30 p.m. — Island Time Book Club, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Info: 941-778-6341, mymanatee.org.

ONGOING OFF AMI

• Second and fourth Saturdays, 2-4 p.m., Florida Maritime Museum’s Music on the Porch, Cortez Cultural Center, 11655 Cortez Road W., Cortez. Info: 941-708-6120, floridamaritimemuseum.org.

• Through Aug. 23, “In the Flesh: The Nude in Modern Japan,” The Ringling, 5401 Bay Shore Road, Sarasota. Fee applies except Mondays. Info: 941-359-5700, ringling.org.

• Through Sept. 5, Thursday-Saturday, times vary, Laser Light Nights, the Bishop Museum of Science and Nature, 201 10th St. W., Bradenton. Fee applies. Info: 941-746-4131.

• Through Sept. 16, “The Evocative Lens: Pictorialism and the Rise of Fine Art Photography,” The Ringling, 5401 Bay Shore Road, Sarasota. Fee applies except Mondays. Info: 941-359-5700, ringling. org.

SAVE THE DATES

• Aug. 20, Island Library’s Island Morning Book Club, Holmes Beach.

• Sept. 3-13, “Arsenic and Old Lace,” Bradenton.

• Sept. 17-27, Island Players’ “Always a Bridesmaid,” Anna Maria.

• Sept. 21, Nov. 16, Jan. 11, March 8, Island Players auditions, Anna Maria.

• Sept. 21, Center of Anna Maria Island Book Club, Anna Maria.

• Oct. 15-Nov. 1, “Carrie the Musical,” Bradenton.

• Oct. 22-Nov. 1, “Dear Evan Hansen,” Bradenton.

• Nov. 12-22, Island Players’ “Silent Sky,” Anna Maria.

• Dec. 3-13, “Anastasia,” Bradenton.

KIDS & FAMILY

ONGOING ON AMI

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

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

SAVE THE DATES

• Sept. 12, Bridge Street’s Sundown Get Down Street Party, Bradenton Beach.

• Oct. 31, Bridge Street’s Halloween Spooktacular, Bradenton Beach.

• Nov. 21, Christmas on Bridge Street kickoff, Bradenton Beach.

• Nov. 28, Bridge Street’s Holidays in Paradise, Bradenton Beach.

• Dec. 5, Bridge Street’s Holidays in Paradise, Bradenton Beach.

• Dec. 5, Realize Bradenton’s Winter Wonderland, Bradenton.

PREMIUM LINEN & CLEANING SERVICE Thinking of Managing your own property? WE CAN HELP!

20-PLUS

Island happenings

Bradenton Marauders host Back-to-School Jam

The Bradenton Marauders will host the annual Back-to-School Jam at 6:30 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 8, at LECOM Park, 1611 Ninth St. W., Bradenton.

The night includes baseball and fireworks.

The event in partnership with the School District of Manatee County also offers the first kids backpacks filled with school supplies.

Gates will open at 5 p.m.

For tickets, go to mlb.com/milb/bradenton.

For more information, call the box office at 941747-3031.

LBK center offers Game Day

Starting Aug. 5, the Longboat Key Paradise Center will host Community Games & Crafts Wednesday 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m.

People are invited to drop in for social games, puzzles, guided crafts and great conversation.

The program offers a variety of gaming, puzzles, journaling, collage, adult coloring and meditative drawing.

The gatherings take place indoors at the Longboat Island Chapel, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key.

For more information or to RSVP, visit theparadisecenter.org, call 941-383-6493, or email rsvp@ theparadisecenter.org.

Kiwanis to meet

The Kiwanis Club of Anna Maria Island will meet Saturday, Aug. 8, at Bradenton Beach City Hall, 107 Gulf Drive N.

The club is on its summer schedule and will not meet again until Saturday, Sept. 12.

Meetings begin at 8:30 a.m.

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

LEARNING & EDUCATION

ONGOING ON AMI

• Most Mondays, 10 a.m., AMITW’s Turtle Tracks & Shorebird Facts, Holmes Beach City Hall, 5801 Marina Drive. Info: 941-3018434.

CLUBS & COMMUNITY ON AMI

Thursday, Aug. 6

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

ONGOING ON AMI

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

ONGOING OFF AMI

• Wednesdays, 11:30 a.m., games and crafts, Longboat Key Paradise Center, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key. Info: 941-383-6493.

SAVE THE DATES

• Sept. 18, Community Clothes Swap with the Center of Anna Maria Island, Anna Maria. MARKETS & COMMUNITY SALES

SAVE THE DATES

• October-May, Saturdays, Realize Bradenton’s Bradenton Public Market, Bradenton.

• Nov. 14, Roser Church Holiday Market, Anna Maria. SPORTS & FITNESS

ONGOING OFF AMI

• Through Sept. 6, select dates, Bradenton Marauders baseball, LECOM Park, 1611 Ninth St. W., Bradenton. Fee applies. Info: 941-747-3031.

• Last Sundays, 8:30 a.m., AMI Run Club, Center of Anna Maria Island, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria. Info: 941-778-1908.

Center to host book-signing

The Center of Anna Maria Island will host author Pasquale Carlucci signing copies of his book, “Baseball in Paradise: A Century of Spring Training in Bradenton, Florida,” Wednesday Aug. 12.

The center will host Carlucci discussing his book in two sessions, one at 2 p.m. and another at 4 p.m. There is no charge to attend. The center is at 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria. For more information, call 941-778-1908.

Keep Manatee Beautiful tees up golf tournament

Golfers can swing for a good cause when Keep Manatee Beautiful hosts its annual FORE the Environment golf tournament Friday, Sept. 18, at River Club Golf Course, 6600 River Club Blvd., Lakewood Ranch.

The event includes 18 holes of golf, on-course contests and prizes, food and refreshments and networking opportunities with local businesses and community leaders.

Proceeds support Keep Manatee Beautiful’s yearround programs, including community cleanups, tree plantings, beautification projects, environmental education and litter prevention initiatives across Manatee County.

Businesses, organizations and individuals can participate as sponsors, register a foursome or both. Registration is open at manateebeautiful.com/ golf.

For information, contact Hunter Jensen, KMB deputy director, at 941-795-8272 or hunter@manateebeautiful.com.

SAVE THE DATES

• Sept. 12, Center of Anna Maria Island’s Greg LaPensee Bowling Tournament, Bradenton.

• Sept. 18, Keep Manatee Beautiful golf tournament, Lakewood Ranch.

OUTDOORS & NATURE ON AMI

Sunday, Aug. 9

8 a.m. — Manatee Public Beach Cleanup with Manatee County, 4000 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. Info: shelby.reece@mymanatee.org, 941-748-4501. OFF AMI

Monday, Aug. 10 6:30 p.m. — Sunset Tai Chi at the NEST, Robinson Preserve, 840 99th St. NW, Bradenton. Info: aedan.stockdale@mymanatee. org, 941-748-4501.

ONGOING OFF AMI

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

SAVE THE DATES

• Aug. 20, Palma Sola Botanical Park/ UF/IFAS Extension Manatee’s Heat Tolerant Plants lesson, Bradenton.

• Sept. 28, Center of Anna Maria Island Full Moon Women’s Circle, Anna Maria.

CALENDAR NOTES

MARK THE DATES

• Through Oct. 31, sea turtle nesting season.

• Through Nov. 30, hurricane season.

• Aug. 10, Manatee goes back to school.

• Sept. 7, Labor Day.

Stocking up for storms

Must have H20 and more

❒ Water in small bottles for drinking.

❒ Water in gallon containers for cleaning up.

❒ Bottled beverages.

❒ Instant coffee.

For the ‘kitchen’

❒ Nonperishable foods.

❒ Can opener.

❒ Cooking pot or pan.

❒ Utensils.

❒ Plates.

❒ Grill.

❒ Grill tools.

❒ Self-starting charcoal.

❒ Sterno.

❒ Matches.

❒ Aluminum foil.

❒ Plastic bags.

Health and hygiene

❒ Prescriptions.

❒ Insect repellent.

❒ Sunscreen.

❒ Toiletries.

❒ Toilet paper.

❒ Adhesive bandages.

❒ Handwipes.

❒ Tweezers.

❒ Thermometer.

❒ Latex gloves.

Ready to wear

❒ Changes of clothing.

❒ Glasses.

❒ Boots.

❒ Rain jacket.

❒ Umbrella.

❒ Face masks.

Checklist

Records and papers

❒ Birth certificates.

❒ Marriage certificates.

❒ Passports.

❒ Social security cards.

❒ Wills.

❒ Insurance documents.

❒ Account numbers.

❒ Irreplaceable photographs.

❒ Water-tight box.

Toolbox

❒ Wrench.

❒ Hammer.

❒ Pliers.

❒ Scissors.

❒ Assorted nails.

❒ Dust mask.

❒ Pocket knife.

❒ Flashlights.

❒ Signal flare.

❒ Extension cords.

❒ Hatchet.

❒ Work gloves.

❒ Trash bags.

❒ Tarp.

❒ Duct tape.

411 and 911

❒ Battery-powered radio.

❒ Earbuds.

❒ Batteries.

❒ Whistle.

❒ Smartphone and power bank.

❒ Solar chargers.

❒ Road maps.

❒ Cash.

❒ Gasoline — full tanks.

❒ Propane tank.

Cleaning and clearing

Comfort and convenience

❒ Sleeping bag.

❒ Blankets.

❒ Lawn chairs.

❒ Games.

❒ Toys.

❒ Reading materials.

❒ Paper.

❒ Pencil.

❒ Candles.

❒ Lanterns.

❒ Disinfectant.

❒ Chlorine bleach.

❒ Medicine dropper.

❒ Plastic bucket with lid.

❒ Mop and broom.

❒ Rags.

Pet friendly

❒ Kennel.

❒ Medications.

❒ Cat litter box.

❒ Vaccination certificates.

❒ Food.

❒ Treats.

❒ Leash.

❒ Pet pick-up bags.

Also need

Answers: page 18

Gathering

Chapel drive steps up for Stillpoint Mission

Longboat Island Chapel is collecting shoes, socks and shoelaces for children and teens during its August “Sock It To ’Em, Tie ’Em Up” charitable outreach, culminating in a community gathering Aug. 25.

Donations of children’s and teens’ shoes, athletic shoes, socks and shoelaces will benefit Stillpoint Mission.

Community members also are invited to bring donations to a Gather + Give event 5-7 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 25, at Longboat Island Chapel, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key.

Attendees are asked to bring their own beverages and a dish to share.

Longboat Island Chapel is at 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key.

For more information, 941-383-6491.

— lisa Neff

GoodDeeds

Help offered on AMI

• Roser Food Bank, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria welcomes applicants for food assistance. Info: 941778-0414.

• All Island Denominations helps people who fulfill AID’s mission statement with financial needs. Info: 941-778-0414.

Offer help on AMI

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

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

• Anna Maria Island Privateers seeks a covered building and/or land for storage. Info: amiprivateers. org.

• Cortez Village Historical Society, 11655 Cortez Road W., seeks volunteers. Info: cvhs2016@aol. com.

• Friends of the Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, seeks volunteers. Info: 941778-6341.

• Island Players, 10009 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria, seeks volunteers. Info: 941-920-1362.

• Tingley Memorial Library, 111 Second St. N., Bradenton Beach, seeks volunteers for weekly 2.5hour shifts. Info: 941-779-1208.

• Wildlife Education and Rehabilitation Center, 2207 Avenue B, Bradenton Beach seeks gift cards for supplies. Info: 941-778-6324.

Obituaries

Obituaries are offered as a free service to residents and families of residents, past and present, as well as to people with ties to AMI. Email news@islander.org. Obituaries are free.

gracie lewis joins Anna maria elementary school as a VPK paraprofessional for the 2026-27 school year. lewis spent five years at the islandbased school for constructive Play and is entering her second year with the school district of manatee county. islander Photos: courtesy Ame

Fourthgrade teacher emily clarke brings 23 years of experience to Ame after working in a variety of instructional roles, including student support specialist and K-5 reading resource teacher.

second-grade teacher Ashley Pitkin arrives at Ame after discovering her passion for education while working as a substitute teacher in 2022.

christina Avirett joins Ame as the ese resource teacher for the 2026-27 school year. Avirett has 23 years with the school district of manatee county. most recently, she worked at rogers garden elementary.

with 27 years in education and 36 years of military service, christian davis will lead Ame’s sTem program for the school year. davis spent more than two decades teaching fifthgrade before moving into sTem instruction five years ago.

morgan debortoli brings nine years of elementary classroom experience to Ame as a fifthgrade teacher. she previously taught fourth- and fifth-grades at sea Breeze elementary.

Center’s after-school program returns Aug. 10

The Center of Anna Maria Island’s Beyond the Classroom after-school program is back for the 20262027 school year, starting Monday, Aug. 10.

The program, open to kindergarten through fifthgrade students, offers projects with Sarasota-based Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium, trips to the Island Library in Holmes Beach, weekly STEAM activities, homework help and time for kids to make friends.

classes let out at 3:15 p.m.

The Holmes Beach Police Department will begin enforcing the school speed zone Aug. 10, the first day of classes.

Transportation is provided from Anna Maria Elementary, 4700 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, to the center, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria.

Families must register by the Thursday before each program week.

Registration is open at centerami.org/btc.

For more information, including fees, call 941778-1908 or email youthprograms@centerami.org.

— lisa Neff

Police Chief William L. Tokajer said HBPD will be issuing tickets to motorists driving 26 miles per hour or higher during two time periods — 7:30-8:40 a.m. and 2:45-3:45 p.m.

Milestones

The Islander welcomes stories about islanders and island life, as well as photographs and notices of the milestones in readers’ lives — weddings, births, anniversaries, travels, obituaries and other events.

Submit your story with contact information to news@islander.org.

“There will be no warnings issued,” he said. Meanwhile, the PTO is organizing for a new year, seeking businesses and organizations to participate in its 2026-27 Community Partner Program, which helps fund school programs.

Sponsorship opportunities range from $500 to $5,000 or more.

AME is at 4700 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach.

AME’s website is manateeschools.net/o/annamaria. The PTO’s website is amepto.org.

For more information, call the school at 941-7085525.

— lisa Neff

Soccer countdown, flag football, horseshoes, golf play on

By Kevin P. Cassidy Islander Reporter

The big kids at the community center are closing out another season of soccer.

With two weeks remaining in the 5-v-5 soccer league for adult players at the Center of Anna Maria Island, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria, Sato Real Estate has a firm grip on first and the No. 1 spot in the playoffs.

Solid Rock Construction, 82 West Home Inspections, Hampton Painting and Salty Printing follow with 3-2 records. Moss Builders holds down sixth with a 2-3 record, just ahead of USA Fence at 1-4 and 0-5 Leading Edge Investments.

Action July 29 kicked off with Solid Rock Construction edging 82 West Home Inspections 2-1. Martin Konig and Thomas Magnotic each scored a goal for Solid Rock and Raul Loera came through with nine saves to help preserve the victory.

Gabriel Arendt scored the goal for 82 West on an assist from Jacek Czajkowski, while Caleb Arendt finished with 10 saves in the loss.

Hampton Painting outscored Moss Builders 7-5 in the second game of the evening behind three goals from Murat Akay and two goals each from Kevin Roman and Christopher Walter. Erica Nielsen added an assist and Luke Naeher finished with eight saves in the victory.

Damir Glavan scored a pair of goals to lead Moss Builders, which received single goals from Jamal Duzgun, Amy Ivin and Ryan Moss.

The third match saw USA Fence get its first win of the season with a 4-2 victory over Leading Edge Investments. Molly Setsma, Scott Fuller, Luke Greaves and Mack Heitchue each scored goals for USA Fence, which also received nine saves from Noah Zabawa in the victory.

Brandon Rolland and Chaz Heller each scored a goal and Justin McGowan finished with eight saves in the loss for Leading Edge.

Sato held on for a 7-5 victory over Salty Printing in the last match. Sakhi Babakarkhil scored a hat trick, while Christopher Klotz and Alex Quintero each finished with two goals. Josh Sato helped preserve the victory with 11 saves.

Adult flag football continues

After six weeks of fieldwork in the adult flag football league at the center, the Fish Guy Aquarium Services and Luxury Services are tied atop the standings with 5-1 records and Fishing with Salty holds down third in the standings with a 4-2 record.

Moss Air and Salty Printing follow with 3-3 records, while Solid Rock Construction is 3-2 with a game in hand. Pavina Bros. Window Cleaning at 2-3 and Moss Builders at 2-4 follow, while USA Fence and MI-Box are both 1-5.

Action July 30 got started with Moss Air holding on for a 35-33 victory over Pavina Bros. behind two touchdown passes and two touchdown receptions from Logan Heath. Jonathan Moss added three touchdown passes for Moss Air, which also got three TD catches from Rex Kesten and one from Jordan Hood in the victory.

Steven Pavina had two touchdown passes and two touchdown grabs for Pavina Bros. Dallas Bucholz

threw two touchdown passes and Christian McPherson finished with two TD catches in the loss.

Salty Printing demolished Solid Rock Construction 39-12 with Tyler Brewer claiming 11 catches, including five for TDs. Tuna McCracken threw four TD passes and Cody Allen added a TD pass to the victory for Salty Printing.

Zack Long threw TD passes to Zachariah Anabtawi and Corey Jacques for Solid Rock Construction.

Chase Richardson threw three TD passes and ran for two more to lead Luxury Services to a 31-20 victory over Moss Builders. Travis Bates added a TD pass and two TD catches for Luxury Services, which also received a pair of TD catches from Karri Stephens in the win.

Ryan Moss threw TDs to Audrey Guess, James Roadman and Cashton Yant for Moss Builders.

Fishing with Salty cruised past MI-Box 26-12 as Dominick Otteni threw for two scores. while also adding a rushing and receiving TD. Jonathan Soultatos chipped in with a TD pass and a TD catch, while Brandon Rolland completed the scoring with one TD catch for Fishing with Salty.

Jaden Grant had a TD pass and a TD catch to lead MI-Box, which also received a TD pass from Donte Filletti and a TD catch from Alex Zettler in the loss.

The final game of the evening saw the Fish Guy roll past USA Fence by a 35-13 score. Miguel Rodriguez threw four TD passes to Tim Holly, who also added a defensive TD and three extra points in the victory.

Ira Serrant threw two TD passes to Zach Stube and Ramon Guerrero IV for USA Fence.

Kids sports

Kids sports programs are expected to start up following the summer break, with the beginning of school. The center, 407 Magnolia Drive, Anna Maria, was closed for the week ending Aug. 8.

Horseshoe news

Gersey Fernandes found his way back to the winner’s circle — a familiar spot over the past few weeks — teaming up July 29 at the Anna Maria horseshoe pits with Gary Howcroft to post the lone 3-0 record in pool play, giving them the win an outright win.

Three teams advanced to the knockout stage during Aug. 1 horseshoe action. Tom Farrington and Gersey Fernandes drew the bye and watched as Steve Doyle and Billy Silver cruised to a 22-11 victory over How-

croft and Steve Augustine.

only

in pool play to be the outright champs July 29 in the horseshoe competition at the Anna Maria pits. Islander Photo: Courtesy AMI Pitchers

In the championship match, Doyle and Silver jumped out to a 10-0 lead only to be outscored 24-1 down the stretch, giving Farrington and Fernandes a 24-11 win.

Play gets underway at 9 a.m. Wednesday and Saturday at the pits, 10005 Gulf Drive. Warmups begin at 8:45 a.m., followed by random team selection. There is no charge to play, and all are welcome.

KRC news

The Key Royale Club in Holmes Beach saw a rainout July 27 for the men’s match.

But the women were on the links July 28 for a low net score challenge.

First place went to Jana Samuels on a 34, second was a tie for Helen Pollock and Sue Wheeler, who both carded a 36.

The club, 700 Key Royale Drive, Holmes Beach, hosted a scramble July 30 that saw the first place team of Cecil Harrelson, Dennis Kitterman, Andy LoMenzo, Bob Maleeny card a one-under-par 31.

Perico tennis player wins mixed doubles tourney

Perico Islander Mark Malinowski — a frequent contributor to The Islander — teamed up with partner Megumi Smillie of Fort Lee, New Jersey, in July to win the mixed doubles open tournament at New York’s Rustic Brook Tennis & Swim.

It was the first time Malinowski and Smillie teamed up for a tournament.

The pair won three rounds before prevailing in a final 6-4 7-6 (7-4) versus Idan Michael and Emma Carrollate July 26 on the green clay Har-Tru courts. Eight teams competed in the tournament at the club, which is in Rockland County.

“To win any kind of doubles tournament, you need a very good partner and Megumi is an excellent player,” Malinowski said. “It was a fantastic match, played over two hours, and close from the first game to the finish.”

Smillie has captained and played on multiple United States Tennis Association national champion teams, including two teams in 2025.

Malinowski plans to play next in the Aug. 10-16 National Grass Courts tourney at Philadelphia Cricket Club.

Hookups continue despite rain, wind, challenging weather

By Capt. Danny Stasny Islander Reporter

With weather patterns stirring up winds and rough surf, as well as thunderstorms coming off the Gulf of Mexico, many Anna Maria Island anglers are staying close to shore — in the inland waters — in case of a pop-up storm. Luckily, fishing remains decent throughout the inshore waters, despite the downpours.

Mangrove snapper are the best bet for another week, although, with the recent full moon, we may see their numbers dwindle as we settle into August.

Targeting mangrove snapper around bridge pilings, docks, piers, rock piles, reefs and ledges is yielding limits on most days, especially during slower periods of the tides.

On the flats, redfish are being found in a variety of spots, especially around mangrove shorelines where oyster bars exist. Casting live shiners, live pinfi sh or even fresh-cut chunks of ladyfish are working to lure the fish to the hook. Sizes seem to be well dispersed, with catches of reds measuring 15-30 inches — depending on the location.

Targeting catch-and-release snook is resulting in action. In many instances, snook are being found in the same areas as the redfish. Swift-moving tides are yielding the best results for the snook.

Spotted seatrout are being found in good numbers on deeper grass flats in depths of 5-8 feet. An influx of smaller trout 12- to 14-inches have infested the flats, so some determination and patience is involved in holding out long enough to get a limit of keeper-size trout in the cooler. When you do find the larger ones, work the area thoroughly because there generally are more of the same size hanging together.

Small schools of bait on the flats are a good place to find larger trout. Look for birds diving to locate bait in the distance. Ladyfish and jack crevalle are present around the bait schools. So be prepared for a cast and a quick bite.

Lastly, remember to keep an eye on the horizon just in case a pop-up thunderstorm develops, and

tideWatch

Red tide detected in Sarasota

In Southwest Florida the week ending Aug. 2, K. brevis, the red tide organism, was detected at background concentrations in Sarasota County.

For more about red tide, go to the Florida Department of Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s page at myfwc.com/research/redtide/statewide/.

— Lisa Neff

THEME NIGHTS

Monday: MartiniMargarita-Oysters.

Tuesday: Beer & Burger. Wednesday: Wine Down & Pasta.

Thursday: Happy Hour All Night.

Friday: Date Night + Prix Fixe Special.

Saturday: Peel & Eat Shrimp-Wine Flights

always be thinking of a spot to take shelter if a storm is unavoidable.

On my Just Reel charters, I’m seeing plenty of mangrove snapper being caught. Fishing rock piles, ledges and reefs is yielding limits on most days. Average sizes of the snapper catch are 12-14 inches with some examples being up to 18 inches for lucky anglers.

Redfish are making a good showing on the flats, especially around oyster bars and mangrove shore-

Brace against wind, waves

When tropical storms or hurricanes approach, boat owners can face the challenge of protecting their vessels and their homes.

Proper preparation is essential to minimize damage and ensure safety. Here are guidelines for securing a boat before severe weather:

• Begin relocating a vessel at least 48 hours before the forecasted storm arrival — waiting too long can leave a boater with few options;

• Equip a boat with two storm anchors, using long nylon lines with chain to provide elasticity during surge;

• Perform essential maintenance, including filling fuel tanks completely, replacing filters and ensuring batteries are charged;

• Remove or firmly secure deck equipment, detachable gear, electronics, antennas and tenders;

• Verify hatches, ports, doors, storage compart-

Lox Bagel Platter garden-ripe tomatoes, capers, red onion and fresh lox with cream cheese, made to order on your choice of bagel! Yummmmm.

1830 59th St W, Bradenton

4-9

4-10

Jordyn giff, visiting Anna Maria Island from Omaha, Nebraska, joins the 36-inch club July 28 with her first snook, caught and released while on a guided fishing trip with Capt. Danny Stasny of Just Reel Fishing Charters.

lines. Again, size ranges are all over the board, starting around 15 inches and ending in the 32-inch range. Live or chunk baits work well for the reds.

Catch-and-release snook are lurking in the same areas, adding variety to the bite for sport anglers.

Finally, spotted seatrout are a good bet on the deeper grass flats, where ladyfish and jack crevalle are mixed in, resulting in a consistent bite.

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

ments and steering components are watertight and locked down;

• For offshore mooring, position in the center of waterways with reinforced mooring lines — double the normal amount;

• Maintain distance between vessels — avoid rafting boats together, which increases damage risk;

• Install heavy-duty fender boards if dockside mooring is unavoidable;

• Most importantly: never remain aboard during severe weather, regardless of the preparation level.

Nesting notes

By Lisa Neff

Post-hatchling return

Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring reported the washback of a post-hatchling the week ending July 31.

The sea turtle returned to the beach had already spent time in the Gulf of Mexico and finished its “swim frenzy,” the initial offshore push hatchlings make after leaving a nest.

At the post-hatchling stage, sea turtles usually are riding the sargassum weed line out in the Gulf, surfacing now and then to feed.

But when that floating weed line drifts close to shore, post-hatchlings can wash back to the beach. They tend to be larger than newly emerged hatchlings and often have algae growing on their shells.

People who find one should not put a post-hatchling back in the water, Kristen Mazzarella, executive director of AMITW, said in the group’s weekly nesting report, issued July 31.

Washbacked post-hatchlings are exhausted and dehydrated and need rehabilitation.

Mazzarella asked people to call AMITW’s 24-hour hotline, 941-301-8434 to report findings.

About AMITW

AMITW is a nonprofit focused on collecting data on threatened or endangered sea turtles. The organization also collects data on shorebirds. Nesting data is required by beach renourishment contracts and AMITW is compensated by the county.

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AMITW’s report covers the week of July 25-31, a stretch marked by rough weather. Storms didn’t stop turtles from nesting or nests from hatching, but they made the patrollers’ job more difficult. Heavy rain can wash out the track marks turtles leave behind, making new nests and hatches tougher to spot.

AMITW counted 13 new nests and 11 false crawls during the week.

For the year, the island has 449 nests and 564 false crawls. Of those nests, 78 hatched and 70 were inventoried, leaving 299 still on the beach.

As of July 31, AMITW reported 449 nests, 564 false crawls, 20 adult disorientations, 21 hatchling disorientation incidents, 4,957 hatchlings.

AMITW patroller Jerry Miller excavates a nest that hatched days earlier. During an excavation, AMITW removes the contents of the nest and counts hatched shells and other eggs to determine the hatch rate. This nest also contained a live hatchling, which was released. Islander Photo:

The group estimates 4,957 hatchlings made it out of nests so far this year. Twenty adult turtles and 21 hatchling groups were recorded as disoriented, with an estimated 561 to 1,300 individual hatchlings having gone off course.

Artificial lighting at night can cause disorientations.

Holes left in the sand also can disturb nesting and hatchling activity.

Patrollers found a hatchling trapped in one hole and more than one nesting adult turtle has had to climb out of a large hole.

In the shorebird colony in Bradenton Beach, AMITW saw a jump in numbers for the week, with adults numbering between 41 and 272 and 11 chicks have reached flight capability.

Mazzarella said large numbers of adult terns were arriving in the late afternoons to rest and refuel before continuing their migration to the Caribbean.

As of July 30, the youngest three chicks in the colony had taken their first short flights.

By Lisa Neff

Deny the Sea Spray permit

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is deciding whether to let a developer build an 8- to 10-foot wall along one of the last old-growth mangrove forests on Sarasota Bay.

Public comment on the permit closes Aug. 7, and the decision could determine whether that forest survives.

The permit application, SAJ2015-01503, was filed by developer Carlos Beruff of Longbar Pointe LLLP for what the applicant calls the Sea Spray project.

The plan covers 169 acres along El Conquistador Parkway in Manatee County: 2,468 residential units, 200,000 square feet of commercial space and the fill of 3.07 acres of wetlands.

To make that work, Beruff wants to build a gabion or retention wall along the development’s waterward edge, arguing it will protect mangroves by narrowing the amount of grading needed near the shoreline.

The Corps’ job is to review the application under Section 404 of the federal Clean Water Act and Section 10 of the federal Rivers and Harbors Act, weighing the applicant’s case against the public interest.

So, we, the public, need to state our interests and our concerns.

Former Manatee County Commissioner Joe McClash, the publisher of the Bradenton Times, says we need to make waves.

“A seawall is prohibited in Sarasota Bay, a National Estuary,” he writes at thebradentontimes.com. “Being creative, Beruff calls it a gabion wall in his application and ignores the fact that a gabion wall will cause the most harmful destruction of our environment in the last uninterrupted shoreline/ecosystem of Sarasota Bay. Had this wall been in place during Hurricane Helene, the results would have been disastrous.”

The League of Women Voters of Manatee County says “act now” because critical mangroves and wetlands are threatened.

Market vendors sought

Realize Bradenton is seeking vendors, including local farmers, artisans and chefs, for its 2026-27 Bradenton Public Market season.

Vendor applications will open Saturday, Aug. 1, and close Monday, Aug. 31, for the market season, which runs Saturdays, October-May, on Old Main Street in downtown Bradenton.

For more information and a vendor application, go to realizebradenton.com. Realize Bradenton’s phone number is 941-301-8445.

— Lisa Neff

Anna Maria

Median listing home price: $3 million, trending up 2.53% over one year, down 14.3% over three years. Listings: 96 properties.

Bradenton Beach

Median listing home price: $1.587 million, trending up 33.09% over one year, up 32.57% over three years. Listings: 111 properties.

Holmes Beach

Median listing home price: $1.395 million, down 1.93% over one year, down 22.46% over three years. Listings: 205 properties.

a federal permit for the project.

The Cortez Village Historical Society calls for “dear Cortezians and friends of Cortez” to “prevent coastal destruction.”

The CVHS, whose community has depended on and cared for the bay for generations, is urging people to tell the Corps the mitigation offered in Beruff’s proposal doesn’t fit the loss.

The plan proposes to offset the local damage from development with wetland restoration more than 70 miles away, on Pine Island. The Cortez group argues that a bank of credits that far off does nothing for the tidal mangroves, archaeological sites and estuarine habitat here.

And Suncoast Waterkeeper sets out a complete argument for why the Corps should deny the permit, as well as providing an easy way for you to oppose the application by going to scwk.good.do/savethelastwetlands/act/.

Suncoast Waterkeeper argues the county’s land development code calls for a 50-foot vegetated buffer between wetlands and development to absorb runoff, filter sediment and give wetlands room to breathe. The group says the largest portion of the Sea Spray project provides just 15 feet of separation.

And, as for the proposed wall, SW says the “plans

Hurricane Hanks helps launch Tour de Turtles

The Sea Turtle Conservancy’s annual Tour de Turtles for hard carapace sea turtles — chelonians — began Aug. 2 with the help of local volunteers and a sponsoring business.

In the tour, sea turtles are tagged and monitored each nesting season so scientists and the public can monitor where they swim and how frequently they nest. Each turtle’s swim is associated with a cause or concern.

AMI’s entry in the tour is Krysta, tagged in Bradenton Beach in June. Krysta’s concern is beach erosion and she was tagged under a sponsorship from Hurricane Hanks, 5346 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach.

Other turtles, tagged in other areas, highlight concerns for marine debris, water quality, plastic pollution, light pollution. commercial trawling, climate change and illegal shell trade.

For more info, go to tourdeturtles.org.

IslBizCal

Thursday, Aug. 6 8 a.m. — Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce breakfast, Ginny’s and Jane E’s, 9807 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria. Fee applies. Info: 941-778-1541.

Aug.

Pier, Bradenton Beach.

place it immediately adjacent to the wetland edge along the buffer perimeter. A constructed wall is not equivalent to an undisturbed vegetated buffer regardless of its type.”

The group also maintains that gabion walls, despite being marketed as permeable, clog over time with sand, debris and storm wrack, until they behave like solid seawalls, deflecting wave energy into scour holes and disturbing seagrasses.

Worse, a wall blocks the landward migration mangroves need as seas rise.

SW says, “When a vertical structure is placed immediately next to a wetland, that migration pathway is blocked. The result is that the wetland becomes trapped between rising water levels and a fixed barrier. Research in Nature identifies this ‘coastal squeeze’ as one of the biggest long-term threats to coastal wetlands.”

You still have a few days to contribute to the public record.

To comment, go to scwk.good.do/savethelastwetlands/act/ or email the Corps’ senior project manager, Edgar W. Garcia, at edgar.w.garcia@usace.army.mil. Remember to reference the permit number SAJ-201501503.

Weathering storm season

Preparation before a storm warning is issued can reduce downtime, protect employees and customers and improve a business’s ability to recover quickly. These steps can help island businesses strengthen their readiness:

• Document procedures for storm preparation, closures, employee communications, evacuation responsibilities and reopening steps. Ensure staff understand their roles.

• Confirm that policies include appropriate coverage for wind damage, flooding, business interruption, equipment and inventory. Keep policy information accessible digitally and in hard copy.

• Store customer records, financial information, payroll files and operational systems in secure cloud storage or off-site backups.

• Secure licenses, contracts, banking information, tax records and employee documents in waterproof, portable containers or encrypted digital storage.

• Inspect shutters, windows, roofing, doors and outdoor fixtures. Bring in or anchor signage, furniture and equipment.

• Establish multiple ways to contact employees, customers, vendors and partners. Include text messaging, email, social media and phone contacts.

• Identify alternate suppliers and maintain inventory of critical materials. Plan for supply disruptions.

• Take photos and video of buildings, equipment, inventory and interiors. Detailed records can simplify insurance claims and recovery.

SERVICES Continued

LOOKINg FOR SOMEONE who needs me: Clean, house-sit. I can cook, make sandwiches. I can do anything you can do but better! I can run to the grocery store for you. I can walk pets or go out to lunch with you. Looking for a part-time job caregiving companion, I am your right arm! I love people and I love helping others. I have references and I’m reliable and dependable. My name is Dena gray a.k.a. Sparkles! 941-465-7005.

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

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

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.

COMPASSIONATE, RELIABLE IN-home care for seniors and adults who need a helping hand. Our experienced caregivers provide companionship, personal care, respite care, meal preparation, medication reminders, transportation, and more. Private pay, flexible scheduling, trusted and experienced care team. Serving Bradenton, Anna Maria Island, Sarasota and surrounding areas. 941840-3907.

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

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

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

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.

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

HOME IMPROVEMENT Continued

g RIFFIN’S HOME IMPROVEMENTS Inc. Handyman, fine woodwork, countertops, cabinets and wood flooring. Insured and licensed. 941-722-8792.

LOOKIN g FOR ANY home improvement? JRCC Home Improvement, handyman service can get the job done. Please, contact us at 413-246-2410. We would love to help.

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

DONALD PERKINS PAINTIN g LLC. Interior/exterior/pressure washing. Island references. dperkinspaint@hotmail.com. 941705-7096.

g ORILLA DRYWALL REPAIR LLC. Let’s solve your drywall problems together. give us a call at 941-286-0607.

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

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

CUSTOM REMODELING: REPAIRS, painting. Fair, honest and dependable. Call Mike 678-523-9955, general contractor, permits.

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

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

RENTALS

ANNA MARIA GULF beachfront vacation rentals. One- two- and three-bedroom units, all beachfront. www.amiparadise.com. 941778-3143.

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

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

WANTED: GARAGE TO rent on AMI for small car. 574-314-9685.

RENTALS Continued

ANNUAL RENTALS AVAILABLE: Off Island: One Particular Harbour, 3BR/3BA furnished condo. Lagoon views, covered parking. Country Club-style living, $5,000/month. Hidden Lake, 3BR/2BA furnished lakefront condo, $3,000/month. Other long-term furnished rentals are available. All areas. Applications, first, last and security required for all annual and long-term rentals. Call Wagner Realty, 941-778-2246.

REAL ESTATE

WINNIE MCHALE, REALTOR, 941-5046146. Dalton Wade Real Estate. You need an aggressive and experienced Realtor in today’s market! Selling island homes, Sarasota and Bradenton areas. Multi-milliondollar producer! “Selling Homes - Making Dreams Come True.”

BRADENTON CONDO FOR sale: Newly updated, fully furnished, 2BR/2BA 1,100 sf. Carport, patio, pool and docking available. $205,000. Call 941-704-9432.