The Islander Newspaper E-Edition Wednesday, April, 08, 2026

‘He is risen’

and

and

by the rev. lee Miller of the Episcopal Church. Also participating in the service were the rev. Dr. Dirk rodgers of roser Memorial Church, the rev. Stephen King of Harvey Memorial Church and the rev. Gerald Critch of St. Bernard Church. lt. Col. Darrell Shinn, retired U.S. Air Force, gave a military prayer. Morgan Bryant was the vocalist and keyboardist for the service and bagpiper Marty Gray performed “Amazing Grace.” See more photos, page 10. islander Photo: Jacob Merrifield

The Great Easter Egg-pandemonium

Children sprint April 5 across the sand to collect Easter eggs at the Sandbar Seafood and Spirits restaurant in Anna Maria, as the annual Easter egg hunt begins, drawing families for a holiday tradition. islander Photos: robert Anderson

riGHT: Eva Strom, left, and Ella Marshall show off their festive Easter hats during the April 5 Sandbar Easter Egg Hunt.

Sandbar

LBK, BB push back on DOT’s high bridge plan

By lisa Neff islander Editor

Leadership from Longboat Key and Bradenton Beach continued to push back against the Florida Department of Transportation’s favored option for Longboat Pass: A fixed, high bridge.

Objections to a fixed bridge with a 78-foot clearance to replace the existing bascule bridge were raised again March 30, during a meeting of the Sarasota/ Manatee Metropolitan Planning Organization board in Sarasota.

This time, the DOT’s secretary for District 1, Jamie Driggers, was at the table and he said the department still was taking feedback and listening to concerns as it continues its project development and environment study of options.

The DOT began the PD&E study in early 2020 and in March held public hearings to present its preferred alternative — a high-level, fixed bridge with a 78-foot clearance and an estimated $159.39 million total cost — over new bascule bridges.

At the MPO meeting, board member and Longboat Key Commissioner Steve Branham restated the town’s opposition to a high, fixed bridge.

“The preferred option is a bascule bridge, lower than the full-height bridge which I think your folks are proposing as the preferred alternative,” he said of the town’s position.

He noted LBK’s new mayor, Debra Williams, drafted a letter to the DOT stating a preference for a lower-level bascule bridge that suits the north end community.

He also asked if the MPO was not as involved on bridge projects as in the past, specifically, he noted, the MPO was very involved in the Ringling Bridge project in Sarasota.

“I’m a little confused by the amount of participation that the MPO was engaged in on this,” Branham said, referring to the Longboat Pass Bridge project. “We want to make sure that all the options are considered and weighed upon and debated so that we get the right solution.”

Branham said Bradenton Beach and Manatee

Pier foundation work continues in Anna Maria

Tampa Bay Marine works equipment April 1 from a barge in Tampa Bay to connect piles and bents with concrete slabs, which now stretch out more than halfway to the pier T-end. lEFT: Tampa Bay Marine continues laying concrete slabs April 1 to form a foundation for decking on the Anna Maria City Pier walkway. Mayor Mark Short told The islander April 2 that the contractor also is preparing to install a conduit for electrical wiring in the next month. islander Photos: robert Anderson

Clean water committee to host workshop

The Holmes Beach Ad Hoc Clean Water Committee will hold a half-day “Partner Workshop,” bringing together regional organizations to coordinate water quality efforts.

The workshop aims to foster collaboration among local groups and island cities, with the goal of developing shared conservation priorities.

Speakers include executives from the Sarasota Bay and Tampa Bay Estuary programs, Suncoast Waterkeeper’s chair Rusty Chinnis and a University of Florida associate professor.

The event will be 9 a.m.-noon Wednesday, April 8, at city hall, Holmes Beach.

For more information, call city hall at 941-7085800.

County officials also likely had concerns, which segued to comments from Bradenton Beach Mayor John Chappie, also an MPO board member.

“We have some concerns about the functional

Graphic composite images depict a high fixed-span bridge across the longboat Pass and views of the bridge from two key locations, land’s End on north longboat Key and Coquina Beach in Bradenton Beach on south Anna Maria island. The Florida Department of Transportation, which is conducting a project development and environment study, favors a 78-foot-high fixed bridge. islander Courtesy images

aspects on the Bradenton Beach side,” Chappie said in reference to a high bridge.

He said the high bridge would change traffic patterns at Coquina Beach and Coquina Bayside that could increase vehicle backups rather than ease con-

gestion.

At the DOT’s hearing on the bridge project in March, staff announced that the public comment period would close March 23.

However, answering concerns at the MPO meeting, Driggers said, “We’re definitely here to listen to those concerns.”

The timeline on the project website, swflroads. com/project/436676-1, shows the next stage in the process is approval of the PD&E study late this year.

In other business at the meeting, the board heard a report that a new boat for Manatee County’s Gulf Islands Ferry service between downtown Bradenton and Bradenton Beach would soon undergo U.S. Coast Guard inspection.

The MPO’s next meeting will be at 9 a.m. Monday, May 18, at the DoubleTree by Hilton, 8009 15th St. E., Sarasota

Q&A The Islander poll

What bridge option do you prefer for crossing longboat Pass?

A. 78-foot vertical clearance fixed bridge

B. 36-foot vertical clearance bascule bridge

C. 23-foot vertical clearance drawbridge

D. Repair-in-place existing bridge

To answer, go to islander.org.

Last week’s question

How

a vacation?

Explore The islander dating to November 1992 online at the UofF Digital Newspaper Collection at ufdc.ufl.edu. ▼ Modern Chop Happy Hour 4-6 Daily, Half OFF Well Drinks, $1 OFF Beers, $2 OFF Wines by the Glass. ▲ Martini Monday: Signature Martinis $7 Bar Bites $2 OFF

▼ Tuesday: $4 Tacos and Margaritas 4-9, lounge only.

▲ 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!

Bradenton Beach weighs history vs. cost for Tingley Library

By robert Anderson islander reporter

Debate over the future of the Tingley Memorial Library, a community landmark built from a private bequest rooted in a love of reading and civic life, sharpened April 2 as Bradenton Beach commissioners weighed whether to repair or repurpose the structure.

Acting city attorney Nancy Meyer of the Trask Daigneault law firm confirmed that the city might be able to use community redevelopment agency funds for repairs or demolition, but any action would need to be added to the CRA plan and comply with funding rules.

Placing the library under CRA control could provide access to redevelopment funds for repairs but also would limit how money can be used, as CRA funds are restricted to redevelopment purposes and generally cannot be used for operating expenses, such as staffing, utilities or day-to-day library services, and could open the door to broader changes in the property’s long-term use.

The library is named for Beulah Tingley, a long ago Bradenton Beach resident and library board member who sought a permanent public facility to house the collection that was originally kept in a cottage on Church Avenue. Upon her death in 1986, she bequeathed more than $600,000 to establish the library.

Roughly $130,000 of the original bequeath remains.

Costs remain a major concern. At a March 18 CRA

meeting, Police Chief John Cosby, who also serves as public works director, told commissioners, “We need between $230,000 and $250,000, not counting the money we need to try to continue to operate it.”

Commissioner Deborah Scaccianoce, the city commission liaison to the library, strongly opposed demolition.

“The idea of making it a parking lot or tearing it down is shameful,” she said. “This is the heart of this community.”

Mayor John Chappie agreed the library is valuable but cited years of deferred maintenance.

“It’s about the money,” Chappie said. “We can’t put the work off any longer.”

Commissioner Ralph Cole called for broader public input, saying, “All the options should be out there.”

Commissioner Scott Bear cautioned that redevel-

opment options may be limited.

“It’s easy to say, tear down and put a parking lot there,” Bear said. “I don’t think our own rules allow that.”

Commissioner Robert Talham questioned longterm costs, asking of the library: “Is it just going to suck money for the rest of my life?”

During public comment, library board member Evelyn Stob said libraries are not meant to generate revenue but instead remain important community assets.

“I think realistically, we all know a library does not make money,” Stob said. “No library is an incomemaking facility… it does enhance the community.”

Commissioners plan to revisit the issue at the next city meeting at noon Thursday, April 16, with cost estimates and additional public input expected.

A U.S. Coast Guard Cortez response crew patrols the intracoastal Waterway April 1 near the station. Crews maintain readiness and monitor vessel traffic along the Anna Maria island coast. islander

Seaside Gardens ordinance allowing elevation in final stretch

By ryan Paice islander reporter

Holmes Beach is paving the way for improvements in one neighborhood.

Seaside Gardens property owners looking to improve their homes may not need to wait for a catastrophic event to make it happen.

Holmes Beach Planning Commission members unanimously voted April 1 to recommend the city commission adopt an ordinance that would allow the voluntary demolition and reconstruction of nonconforming structures in Seaside Gardens.

Planning commissioner Lisa Pierce was absent with excuse, and first alternate Joseph Ireland filled in for her on the dais.

The community was developed in the 1960s by John E. Holmes Sr. — the city’s namesake — to be a neighborhood of 110 ground-level duplexes with individual unit ownership.

It is located in the city’s R-4 zoning district, a medium-density-residential zone intended to provide 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 and 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 like those in Seaside Gardens to be rebuilt if they were involuntarily damaged by 50% or more of the structure’s assessed value.

Director of development services Chad Minor said that ordinance was crafted with input from Seaside Gardens owners, who did not want to allow voluntary demolition and reconstruction at the time.

However, Minor said that changed following the devastation of the 2024 storms, and the community is now calling for voluntary reconstruction.

“The community needs it,” he said. “They’ve seen the destruction that the storms can bring and more of them want to be (U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency) compliant.”

Commissioner Joseph Ireland moved to find the proposed ordinance in compliance with the municipality’s comprehensive plan and recommend city commission approval.

Planning Commissioner Richard Brown seconded the motion, which passed.

There was no public comment.

The ordinance will now go back to city commissioners for a second and potentially final reading, when it could become adopted into city code.

The city commission will meet next at 2 p.m. Tuesday, April 14, at city hall, 5801 Marina Drive.

A livestream of the meeting can be viewed on the city’s website, holmesbeachfl.org.

In the meantime, multiple Seaside Gardens units have been rebuilt and elevated following damage from the 2024 storms.

Pete Dospel, whose Pete Dospel Construction was hired to elevate two homes in the community, told The Islander March 25 about the process and benefits of

elevating the properties.

The Seaside Gardens home at 432 63rd St., Holmes Beach, is still a work in progress. The living area was elevated by Pete Dospel Construction after damage from the 2024 hurricanes. The attached unit under separate ownership is not elevated.

He said the process begins by demolishing an existing unit without impacting its shared wall.

The next step is to build a new two-story structure, where the ground level becomes non-habitable space like parking and storage, while the second floor becomes livable space with the same number of bedrooms and floor area as the original structure.

Dospel said elevating the nonconforming structures not only protects them from future flood damage, but also provides a better view and new space for parking, storage and even a swimming pool.

He acknowledged that the cost, which he estimated to be about $350-$500 per square foot, can be prohibitive for many property owners.

Nevertheless, Dospel said his company was working on elevating a third duplex in the community and may have a fourth lined up.

He said the proposed ordinance could result in more jobs if it passes.

Anna Maria exploring stormwater — tax — assessment changes

By ryan Paice islander reporter

Anna Maria’s stormwater utility fees might be based more on impact than property size.

Mayor Mark Short announced March 26 that city staff is exploring changes to how the municipality assesses the fees.

The city currently assesses a rate of $4 per 100 square feet of property, resulting in a $200 annual stormwater utility tax for a 5,000-square-foot property.

City commissioners voted last August to double

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.

the previous rate of $2 per 100 square feet of property but committed to determining if there was a better way to assess the fees moving forward.

Short said that the city’s conclusion is that there is a better way, but it is not yet fully fleshed out.

He said city staff is working through the “final touches of the concept” using Manatee County data but shared the “vision” for potential changes.

Short said instead of assessing properties based on their square footage, the city could charge a flat fee per parcel — irrespective of its layout — as well as an additional fee based on a parcel’s impervious

coverage.

Impervious coverage is area where water does not soak into the ground, such as rooftops, which results in more stormwater runoff and a bigger impact on drainage systems.

Short said a parcel’s impervious coverage would be the “primary driver” behind the stormwater tax.

City Commissioner Christopher Arendt called the concept a great idea that would be fairer to property owners than the current setup.

The commission will meet next at 1 p.m. Thursday, April 9, at city hall, 10005 Gulf Drive.

Out of this world

I don’t often do it, but this week I have to recommend that after you’ve perused The Islander front to back, and those of you who do so have fact-checked the stories and announcements page by page and made notes of the special things you want to do in the coming week — places to dine, classes to enrich your life on AMI and other places to go and things to do — grab your computer.

Not your phone.

The computer. The one with the big screen. Now, go to the National Geographic website and open the video of Artemis II leaving the launch pad in extreme slow motion.

Be sure to share it with any kids in the house, pass it on to friends and family and then watch it again.

Now, thank me.

I know we don’t usually encourage screen time for kids, but this is must-see rocket science.

It will send them to the moon in their heart and mind. It’s worth watching. Many times.

In fact, it’s must-watch for adults but more so for adults to watch kids. You’ll see amazement and fascination in their eyes. You might even be encouraging a future astronaut or rocket scientist.

Be prepared to answer questions.

It’s “over the moon!”

As a kid, the closest I got to rocket science was an art class at North Ridge Junior High School in Danville, Illinois.

Our art room had a television — small as it was. And the art teacher, being a little more progressive than some other teachers — one was an ex-Marine who had us doing push-ups and reciting a Marine chant — tuned in the news on May 5, 1961, and we stared at the B&W screen as Alan Shepard became the first American in space, piloting the Freedom 7 capsule on a 15-minute suborbital flight. While Shepard’s flight was not to the moon, it inspired us to dream.

I vividly recall the Apollo 8 mission in December 1968. It was the first crewed spacecraft to leave Earth’s gravitational sphere and the first human spaceflight to reach and orbit the moon.

It circled the moon 10 times without landing and returned to Earth Dec. 27 — the same day I gave birth to son Damon. It sent my mind tumbling as if I was in the space capsule, reentering Earth’s atmosphere.

Luckily, I missed the pain and agony of childbirth and traveled comfortably through space, completely surprised when the nurse awakened me to the news I’d given birth to a 10-pound-or-so baby boy. Whoopee!

— Bonner Joy, news@islander.org

OpinionYour

Treasured supporters

The Friends of the Island Library thanks everyone who donated items for our third jewelry sale.

Special thanks to those who sorted and bagged and to those who worked at the sale. The sale was a success because of your generosity and efforts and, we admit it, the entire process was fun!

All the funds raised by the Friends group provide materials, services and programs exclusively for our Island Library.

Sunset permits foolery

Now that was fun!!!

You got me, and then my son in Oakland, Calif.

Very well written.

Tom Gammack, St Petersburg

More ‘foolery’ from NextDoor

Hey. I got online and reserved 5-8 p.m. Aug. 29. It’s Michael Jackson’s birthday!

— Steve Stewart, Palmetto

▼ Publisher, editor

APRIL 8, 2026 Vol. 34, No. 24

Bonner Joy, news@islander.org

▼ Editorial robert Anderson, robert@islander.org

Joe Bird, editorial cartoonist

Kevin Cassidy, kevin@islander.org

Jack Elka, jackelka000@gmail.com

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

▼ Contributors

Jacob Merrifield

Capt. Danny Stasny, fish@islander.org

▼ Advertising Sales

lisa E. Hlywa, lisae@islander.org ads@islander.org

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

▼ Distribution

Urbane Bouchet

ross roberts

Judy loden Wasco

▼ Webmaster Wayne Ansell

In recent years the group has purchased new furniture and flooring, financed the mural on the west wall, funded new doors and painting and continually funded ongoing youth and adult programs.

The Friends group is able to subsidize these projects as a result of generous donors and the dedication of many volunteers.

All others: info@islander.org

Watch for our next big adventure — landscaping the neglected and storm-damaged areas surrounding the library.

Our little library and its enthusiastic staff serve patrons of all ages and stages and from many places. Thanks to all who help keep it a treasured part of the AMI community.

Nancy R. Deal, Friends of the Island Library president

Of Sandy Bottoms and Phil Flips

After reading the article concerning sunsets, I find that the residents of the island are over the top concerning beach uses. I believe Mr. Flips and Ms. Bottoms have been in the sun too long, as is a common problem we endure here in this part of the world.

Perhaps their time would be better spent hunting snipes.

April Fools!!!!

That was a great article!

You really had me for a minute!

Mark Muehlman, Palmetto

We’ve received quite a few calls and messages today regarding “sunset permits.” While we appreciate The Islander’s creativity — this one gave us a good laugh — this was an April Fools’ joke.

No permits. No sunset limits. No “audible gasp” restrictions.

You’re still free to enjoy our beautiful sunsets — no application required.

Happy April Fools’ Day, Anna Maria.

City of Anna Maria

Have they lost their minds!!

Joyce Ewan, Ellenton

I propose full moon viewing permits as well, as there are just too many people looking up at this spectacle. Anyone looking up without valid documentation should be subject to stiff penalties.

Ramon Rios, Robinson Preserve

Letters to the editor

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

Way back when …

The undated photo shows the new officers for the Parent Teacher Association at the Anna Maria Elementary School. The cutline for the photo fails to include the full names of the officers, instead identifying them as “Mrs. richard Stewart, corresponding secretary; Mrs. John Hames, county president; Mrs. richard Poe, president; Mrs. George Cobb, recording secretary; and Mrs. Charles Weaver, vice-president. islander Photos: Manatee County Public library System Digital Collection

… Two-stepping at AME BElOW: Anna Maria Elementary students perform a “Hee Haw Show” in the school auditorium in September 1980. “Hee Haw” was a TV variety show featuring country music that first aired on CBS 1969-71 and then aired in syndication for many years after.

10-20-30 years ago

From the April 4, 1996, issue

• Bradenton Beach citizens formed a committee to investigate recalling Mayor Leroy Arnold. Arnold told The Islander, “I don’t believe I’ve done anything to justify my recall. I have no reason to think that a recall is justified.”

• Holmes Beach Mayor Bob VanWagoner said he planned to crack down on bars violating noise regulations with loud music after 10 p.m. However, commissioners said the noise ordinance was too vague.

• Anna Maria commissioners unanimously voted to pull out of an interlocal agreement with Manatee County for a federal stormwater management plan.

From the April 5, 2006, issue

• The U.S. Coast Guard held a town meeting in Holmes Beach to collect public comment on a proposal to change the daily on-demand opening times for the Anna Maria Island and Cortez bridges. The proposal pitted sailors against motorists.

• Bradenton Beach police arrested three people for allegedly selling crack cocaine. BBPD had an undercover officer use a pay phone from the Circle K.

From the April 6, 2016, issue

• A man who had worked as a rental agent was sentenced to 21 months in prison after being convicted of one count of mail fraud in a scheme to fraudulently obtain more than $200,000 from about 70 clients.

• Many owners of vacation rentals waited for an April 1 deadline to file units under Anna Maria’s new short-term vacation rental ordinance. Vacation rentals, units rented for less than 30 days within six-months, must register with the city to operate.

— lisa Neff

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

Beach access dispute between neighbors settled by jury

By ryan Paice islander reporter

A legal battle over an easement on 51st Street in Holmes Beach may be nearing an end.

Meanwhile, the plants in the easement, put there by one of the involved parties, have been removed.

Larry Davis, owner of 103 51st St., alongside the easement, reported March 27 to Holmes Beach police that vegetation had been removed from the easement before a final verdict was reached in the case.

The dispute revolves around the ownership and rights over the easement, which runs between 103 51st St. and 5102 Fifth Ave., where it has served for decades as a beach path for property owners in the Gutierrez subdivision.

The subdivision covers a whole neighborhood, both sides of 51st Street and the south side of 52nd Street, with Second Avenue as an eastern border and the beach as the western border.

In November 2023, a group of 20 property owners within the subdivision, including the Gutierrez family, sued another 35 property owners, headlined by the Davis family, claiming that the Davises had launched “a campaign to prevent owners within the Gutierrez Subdivision from enjoying or accessing the easement.”

According to their complaint, the Davises planted obstructive vegetation in the 5-foot-wide easement and also installed large boulders to prevent access, as well as “began interrogating property owners about whether they lived within the Gutierrez Subdivision and whether they were authorized users of the easement.”

The Davises also posted an armed security officer and “no trespassing” signs at the path’s entrance, as well as attempted to build a fence within the easement before city staff halted construction.

The plaintiffs sought in their lawsuit to seek declaratory judgment from the court that they have an

easement right over the path; and seek injunctive relief requiring the Davises to remove all obstructions from the easement, as well as prevent them from blocking future access to it.

In their response, the Davises claimed that the easement had been abandoned and no longer existed, and it was not based on necessity since there are two nearby public paths to the beach.

They also claimed that the easement was terminated or limited by “abuse of the claimed easement.”

The Davises fi led a counterclaim, alleging that the plaintiffs have “attempted” to use the easement in an “extreme manner,” such as by clearing the space of vegetation, creating a graveled pathway, littering, removing multiple “no trespassing” signs and more.

They claimed that such actions constitute “trespass and extreme abuse of any claimed easement” which had resulted in damages to them.

The Davises’ counterclaim requested the court enter a judgment for compensatory and consequential damages, as well as injunctive relief to prevent the plaintiffs from “continuing to abuse the claimed easement.”

The case went to trial March 16-20 under 12th Circuit Judge Charles Sniffen, with a jury acting as fact-finders.

The jury rendered its verdict March 20, answering multiple questions posed by Sniffen in favor of the plaintiffs.

That includes determining that “one or more plats for the Gutierrez Subdivision” created an easement for the beach access path and that the easement benefitted the plaintiffs.

They also determined that the Davises failed to establish adverse possession of the easement and the plaintiffs’ abandonment of it.

Lastly, the jury found that neither defendant nor plaintiff suffered damages for the other party’s removal of landscaping.

Now, all there is to do is wait for a final verdict from Sniffen, which had not been filed as of April 4.

However, someone may have jumped the gun with the latest removal of landscaping and vegetation within the easement.

The Davises filed a request March 30 for an expedited case management conference with the court, alleging that the plaintiffs once again removed vegetation from the easement and reinstalled a graveled pathway ahead of the final judgment.

They claimed that there is security footage of the incident, which “captured the use of chainsaws on their property and conversations between one or more plaintiffs with laborers on site.”

A case management conference was held April 2 to discuss both parties’ rights and obligations pending Sniffen’s entry of a final judgment.

Compiled by lisa Neff, calendar@islander.org

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

ON AMI

Wednesday, April 8

11 a.m. — Keychain crafting, Tingley Memorial Library, 111 Second St. N., Bradenton Beach. Info: 941-779-1208, bradentonbeachlibrary@gmail.com.

6:30 p.m. — Island Time Book Club, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Info: 941-778-6341, mymanatee.org. Thursday, April 9

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

Friday, April 10

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

5-7 p.m. — Artists’ Guild Gallery Night Market, 5414 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Info: amiartistsguildgallery.com, 941-7786694.

Saturday, April 11

1:30 p.m. — Paper crafting, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Info: 941-778-6341, mymanatee.org.

ONGOING ON AMI

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

• Throughout April, Artists’ Guild Gallery exhibit by Susanna Spann, 5414 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Info: amiartistsguildgallery.com, 941-778-6694.

OFF AMI

Friday, April 10

6-8 p.m. — Bradenton Music in the Park series, Bradenton Riverwalk Pavilion, 452 Third Ave. W., Bradenton. Info: 941-3018445.

ONGOING OFF AMI

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

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

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

• Through April 17, Florida Suncoast Watercolor Society Annual Aqueous Exhibition and National Association of Women Artists Curated Exhibition, Herrig Center for the Arts, 888 Third Ave. W., Bradenton. Info: herrigcenter.org, 941-746-2862.

• Through April 19, Friday-Sunday, 10 a.m.-3 p.m., “Living History,” De Soto National Memorial, 8300 De Soto Memorial Highway, Bradenton. 941-792-0458.

• Through June, Florida Maritime Museum “Vacationing in Cortez” exhibit, the Bishop Museum of Science and Nature, 201 10th St. W., Bradenton. Fee applies. Info: 941-746-4131.

Tickets on sale for Cajun Crawfish Boil

The Center of Anna Maria Island will host a Cajun Crawfish Boil 6-9 p.m. Saturday, May 2.

The fundraising event brings together live music, Kentucky Derby Day activities and a Cajun menu — including fresh crawfish, seafood jambalaya, and bourbon-bread pudding — in what organizers are billing as a community celebration with a Louisiana twist.

Proceeds benefit the community center, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria.

The evening will feature a performance by Justin Layman, a Kentucky Derby viewing party with the race beginning around 6:45 p.m., a Derby Hat Contest and a crawfish race.

Tickets are $50 for adults and $10 for children 12 and under.

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

SAVE THE DATES

• April 18, De Soto National Memorial’s Food Truck Saturdays, Bradenton.

• April 23, Realize Bradenton’s Music in the Park series, Bradenton.

• April 23-May 3, Manatee Players’ “Big Fish,” Bradenton.

• May 7-17, Island Players “The Outsider,” Anna Maria. KIDS & FAMILY ON AMI

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

ONGOING ON AMI

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

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

SAVE THE DATES

• April 24, Center Bingo Night, Anna Maria.

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

• May 2, Center Crawfish Boil, Anna Maria. CLUBS & COMMUNITY

ONGOING ON AMI

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

• 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 18, AME Gala, Anna Maria.

• April 22, Palma Sola Botanical Park Garden Workday, Bradenton.

• May 19, Palma Sola Botanical Park Garden Workday, Bradenton.

MARKETS & COMMUNITY SALES

ON AMI

Thursday, April 9

Noon — Anna Maria Island Historical Society luncheon, 402 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Fee applies. Info: 941-778-0492, amihs4315@ gmail.com

For more information or to purchase tickets, visit centerami.org/events or call 941-778-1908. 20.2K

ONGOING ON AMI

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

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

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

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

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

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

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 18, Herrig Center Snatch It Up, Bradenton. SPORTS & FITNESS OFF AMI

• Through Sept. 6, select dates, Bradenton Marauders baseball, LECOM Park, 1611 Ninth St. W., Bradenton. Fee applies. Info: 941747-3031.

SAVE THE DATES

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

• May 9, Rotary Club of Anna Maria Island Fishing Tournament, Cortez.

OUTDOORS

& NATURE

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.

Island Library packs

April with events

The Island Library has something on the April calendar for toddlers, crafters, gardeners and civicminded adults.

The lineup includes Toddler Playdough sessions and Family Storytime on select weekday mornings, while kids can hunt for “bunnies” hidden throughout the library all month long as part of the April Bunny Hop Challenge.

Adults can get creative at watercolor workshops, a knitting-and-crochet circle, paper-crafting sessions and a meeting of the coloring club.

Also, the Island Time Book Club convenes Wednesday, April 8, to discuss Alison Espach’s novel “The Wedding People.”

Some events require registration and seats are limited.

All events are at the island branch, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach.

For a full calendar and registration links, go to manateelibrary.libcal.com.

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

Tingley welcomes crafters

Tingley Memorial Library will hold a keychain craft workshop at 11 a.m. Wednesday, April 8. The event is open to adults and teens.

Registration is required.

The library is at 111 2nd St. N, Bradenton Beach.

For more information, call 941-779-1208 or email bradentonbeachlibrary@gmail.com.

Show off your Earth Day

Earth Day 2026 arrives Wednesday, April 22, with a global theme, “Our Power, Our Planet.” It’s a rallying cry and The Islander wants to see how you’re answering that call.

Send your Earth Day photos and selfies to lisa@ islander.org on or after April 22.

Whether you’re picking up plastic along the shoreline, planting a tree, attending a demonstration or pausing to appreciate nature on Anna Maria Island, snap a photo and share it with The Islander’s community.

When you email your image, please include a brief description of what’s shown in the photo along with your name and contact information.

— lisa Neff

SAVE THE DATES

• June 26-28, Full Send Fishing Tournament, Anna Maria. CALENDAR NOTES

• 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.

• June 14, Flag Day.

• June 21, Father’s Day. ANNOUNCEMENTS GET LISTED!

Send listings to calendar@islander.org.

Island happenings

Holmes Beach hosts spring cleanup

Cortez-based artist Susanna Spann shows off her booth Feb. 14 at the Cortez Commercial Fishing Festival. Spann is the featured artist for April at the Artists’ Guild Gallery in the island Shopping Center in Holmes Beach. islander File

tion set for Friday, April 10.

Spann is known for her distinctive handling of light, texture and color — particularly her depictions of glass and organic forms.

Her paintings will be displayed in the gallery window throughout the month.

An opening reception takes place 5-7 p.m. Friday, April 10, during the gallery’s monthly Night Market.

The evening will include light refreshments, a “Paint Around” in which member artists collaboratively complete paintings by passing them around and a raffle for the finished work.

The gallery is at 5414 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach.

For more information, call 941-778-6694 or go to amiartistsguildgallery.com.

Holmes Beach will host a two-day community cleanup this month coordinated by the city’s code compliance department.

The city encourages residents to shed unwanted household items ahead of hurricane season, with the city handling collection and disposal in partnership with its public works team and waste hauler Waste Pro.

The cleanup runs 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Friday, April 10, and Saturday, April 11, at city hall, 5801 Marina Drive.

The city will accept most materials but not white goods, such as washers and dryers, hazardous waste, tires, petroleum products or paint.

For more information, call 941-708-0331 or email codeenforcement@holmesbeachfl.org.

— lisa Neff

need a good laugh? visit the emerson quillin signature store. humor, art, gift@ the HB Post Office, 5354 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. Ask about our personal and pet portraits. emersonshumor.com

Easter sunrise

Morgan Bryant, right, performs

“Because He lives.” Also on the alter are the rev. Dirk rodgers, left, the rev. lee Miller, the rev. Stephen King, the rev. Gerald Critch and Sandy Haas-Martens of the Kiwanis Club. islander

Bonner Joy

of Anna Maria island Easter Sunrise Service at the Manatee Public Beach, with worshippers spread across the sand. islander

Photo: Jacob Merrifield

this year

Easter gathering

annual

Small lives, big demand at Wildlife Inc.

By robert Anderson islander reporter

Dozens of animals are arriving daily at a volunteer wildlife rescue on Anna Maria Island.

Meanwhile, the rescue group, Wildlife Education and Rehabilitation Center, is stretching staff, supplies and space to their limits during the peak of the spring breeding season.

Known as Wildlife Inc., the nonprofit rehabilitation center at 2207 Avenue B, Bradenton Beach, is caring for an influx of birds, squirrels and possums, spokesperson Krista Carpenter said April 2.

Gail and Ed Straight, who have operated Wildlife Inc. for 56 years from their Bradenton Beach home, are appealing to the public for help in caring for displaced and injured wildlife.

Carpenter, a volunteer and spokesperson for the center, said the infl ux is driven by a spring “baby season,” when nearly every species is reproducing, leading to a sharp rise in young dependent critters requiring specialized care.

Wildlife Inc., which operates primarily through donations and volunteer support, is managing a range of animals, each requiring different feeding formulas and care routines.

Newborn wildlife must be hand-fed with custom mixtures, while older animals transition to seeds, nuts and other species-specific diets.

Carpenter said many rescues stem from humanrelated impacts, including increased traffic, construc-

GoodDeeds

Assistance sought on AMI

• 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.

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

• 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.

— lisa Neff

Email listings to lisa@islander.org.

At your service

Obituaries are offered as a service to residents and families of residents, both past and present, as well as to those people with ties to the island. Submit to news@islander.org. Obituaries are provided free — a service of your community newspaper.

tion and habitat disruption.

Injuries from vehicle strikes are a growing concern, along with displaced or orphaned young animals.

In addition to rehabilitation, the organization continues to expand its educational outreach, working with schools and community groups to promote coexistence with wildlife and responsible environmental practices.

Among the group’s most urgent needs are supplies such as unflavored Pedialyte for critical care, as well as financial support.

Despite the challenges, Carpenter said community support has remained strong.

How to help

Wildlife Inc. accepts donations through the organization’s website, wildlifeinc.org, as well as via Venmo and PayPal and at the nonprofit’s physical location.

Volunteers interested in assisting with cleanup efforts are encouraged to reach out.

Nonprofits ask donors to join annual Giving Challenge

As the 2026 Giving Challenge approaches, nonprofits are working to rally supporters to donate and generate matching funds.

The Giving Challenge is a 24-hour online giving event —— set this year for noon April 15-noon April 16 — that connects about 700 nonprofit organizations with donors to support diverse causes and create impact in Sarasota, Manatee, Charlotte and DeSoto counties.

Since 2012, the Giving Challenge has acted as a catalyst for connection and provided more than $92 million in unrestricted funding to our nonprofit community over nine challenges.

Many island nonprofi ts participate in the challenge, which is hosted by the Community Foundation of Sarasota County and strengthened by the Patterson Foundation.

The total number of individual donors in an annual challenge can reach more than 50,000, making more than 90,000 gifts. Each unique donation up to $100 is matched $1 for $2 by the Patterson Foundation.

“Each Giving Challenge is a celebration of our nonprofit community and the generosity of everyone who takes part, and we are thrilled to offer this opportunity for a tenth time to provide unrestricted funding to boost organizations that give so much to our quality of life,” said Kirsten Russell, VP for community Impact at the Community Foundation of Sarasota County.

For more information or to search for participating nonprofits, go to givingchallenge.org or call 941-9553000.

— lisa

Neff

About Wildlife Inc.

Founded in 1987, Wildlife Inc. is a nonprofit rescue and rehabilitation center operated by Gail and Ed Straight from their residence at 2207 Avenue B, Bradenton Beach. It is the largest wildlife rehabilitation center in Manatee County and has treated thousands of birds, mammals and reptiles since its founding. The organization operates primarily through volunteer support.

For more information, call 941-778-6324, visit wildlifeinc.org or search @WildlifeInc. on Facebook.

Seaside Inn-BB talks continue over disputed beach structure

By robert Anderson islander reporter

A barrier to the beach appeared in Bradenton Beach over the past week.

City code compliance personnel halted the unpermitted work near the intersection of 22nd Street North and Gulf Drive March 31 after an unidentified contractor was seen using a skid-loader to move rocks to a public access, leaving questions about who authorized the activity.

The incident, which occurred during spring break, a peak tourism period on Anna Maria Island, prompted an investigation by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection.

Bradenton Beach code enforcement officer Evan Harbus and interim building official Rob Perry said in an April 1 interview with The Islander that they responded after hearing a police communication regarding activity on the beach.

They said they arrived to find a man operating heavy equipment, moving rocks between the Seaside at Anna Maria Island Inn, 2200 Gulf Drive N., and a small residential property at 2108 Gulf Drive N.

“We told them to stop immediately and get off the beach,” Harbus said.

According to Harbus and Perry, no permit was confirmed for the work.

The work occurred seaward of the coastal construction control line, placing it under the jurisdiction of the Florida Department of Environmental Protection. Any alteration of the beach seaward of the CCCL typically requires state authorization.

During the interview, Harbus said the contractor claimed to be affiliated with the Florida Department of Transportation, though that claim was not verified. Officials later cited conflicting accounts, including references to Manatee County, which Harbus said were not accurate.

Despite the on-site response, Harbus and Perry said they did not determine who the contractor was working for, where the operation was based or who directed the work at the time, focusing instead on stopping the activity.

“I didn’t ask,” Harbus said. “I was more concerned about getting him off the beach.”

The activity occurred at a public beach access area

Carrie Reene and her husband, Jonathan, who said they were visiting from Michigan, said a man operating a skid-loader arrived around 10 a.m.-10:30 a.m. and told them he planned to move some rocks.

“He came over and said, ‘We’re going to move a bunch of rocks and pile them up over here,’” Carrie Reene said, adding that he did not identify himself.

The Reenes said the work blocked access from their rental to the beach.

“We could climb over a rock or two, but it wasn’t open like it had been,” Carrie Reene said.

Carrie Reene said city workers later returned to the site and cleared a path through the rocks.

Photos show code enforcement officer Evan Harbus and a public works employee later that day at the site.

The Islander contacted Luper April 1 for comment and she provided an email she sent April 1 to Perry. Luper, whose family owns the property at 2108 Gulf Drive N., described what she called an ongoing dispute over rock placement and beach access between the neighboring properties.

Carrie and Jonathan reene of Michigan are vacationing April 1 near 2108 Gulf Drive N. in Bradenton Beach, where earlier in the week, a rock barrier was installed. The reenes said the barrier blocked access at their rental before a path was cleared later that day. islander Photo: robert Anderson

between properties with multiple ownership interests.

The Seaside at Anna Maria Island Inn property is owned by Tristar Properties Acquisition Prime, which state records show developer Shawn Kaleta as title manager.

The property at 2108 Gulf Drive N. is owned by Coastal Sound Investments, which lists Gayle Luper as title manager.

Portions of the adjacent shoreline nearest Gulf Drive are owned by multiple entities, including Tristar Properties and Jacaranda Partners, which lists Daniel Shutz as title manager. Jacaranda Partners also owns The Beach Club at 2201 Gulf Drive N., across the street from the site.

Visitors renting the property at 2108 Gulf Drive N. said they witnessed the activity.

She alleged the rocks had been moved in a way that blocked longstanding access from her property to the beach and she said similar activity occurred following the 2024 hurricanes, when rocks were repositioned by a “major developer” along the shoreline.

Luper wrote that the placement had repeatedly obstructed an access path she said has existed for decades.

Luper also described a prior incident involving a fence placed on a protected dune area that was later removed after city intervention.

In her email, Luper asked the city to ensure the access path to the beach remains open and said she has documentation and photos supporting her claims.

According to Perry, environmental scientist and coastal construction control line field inspector Erin Luaces of the DEP is scheduled to visit Bradenton Beach April 8 to review the site and meet with city officials and involved parties.

Officials said property boundaries, ownership and jurisdiction in the area remain under review.

The Islander archive dating to 1992 is at ufdc.ufl.edu.

Tiki & Kitty’s

Ginny’s and Jane E’s

Tiki and Kitty are looking forward to bright, brisk spring days to tour their favorite shops, boutiques and vintage markets!

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

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

Next to Cat’s Meow, there’s Blue Flamingo , another “must stop.” They are always festive but now the collection includes the Gathering Place and the Sea Hagg, formerly in Cortez. They have three large buildings filled with vintage treasures and nauticals,

Miss us? WE MISS YOU AMI! Stop by at our other locations:

upcycled and repurposed goods, furniture and decor, garden features, candles, jewelry and work by local artisans, as well as Dixie Belle paints.

On April 12, the outdoor Vintage Flea Market, formerly of Anna Maria, returns to Blue Flamingo. Scavengers Marketplace has plenty of vendors to capture your wallet at the Palmetto store, 2100 U.S. 301. There’s always something new to entice you among the vendors’ eclectic collections.

FYI: Scavengers carries Fusion Paints.

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

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

Streetlife

Island police reports

By robert Anderson and ryan Paice

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

Anna Maria No new reports.

Bradenton Beach

March 25, 800 block of Gulf Drive South, battery. A police officer was dispatched to a reported fight. According to statements, one person punched another multiple times in the face and struck a second individual who attempted to intervene. The suspect told officers they became angry and admitted to striking one person. An arrest for battery was made.

March 27, 200 Gulf Drive North, Beach House Restaurant, battery. An offi cer was dispatched to a report of a disturbance involving an intoxicated customer. An individual had attempted to fight staff and threw objects inside the restaurant. The suspect continued aggressive behavior after being escorted outside. An arrest for battery was made.

Cortez No new reports.

Holmes Beach

March 27, 100 block of 51st Street, civil dispute. An officer responded to reports of a civil dispute and spoke with the complainant, a property owner who said there was a case regarding an easement between two properties. He said vegetation from the easement had been cleared and disposed of in nearby garbage bins. He wanted the incident documented.

March 28, 600 block of Manatee Avenue, marijuana/obstruction. An officer conducted a traffic stop due to an alleged noise violation. The officer smelled marijuana from inside the vehicle and, when a backup officer arrived, ordered the driver to exit the vehicle. The driver didn’t comply and was arrested for obstruction without violence. Police searched the vehicle and found 2 grams of marijuana.

March 29, 100 block of 73rd Street, missing child. An officer responded to reports of a missing 4-year-old on the beach. The child was soon located and returned to her parents.

March 30, 300 block of 63rd Street, recovered property. An officer was dispatched in reference to a firearm found at a rental property. The officer took the firearm and contacted its owner, who declined to retrieve the gun.

Call 911 in an emergency.

RoadWatch

Eyes on the road

State Road 64/Anna Maria Island Bridge: A water main project is underway along Manatee Avenue and on the bridge, requiring temporary lane closures. Also, work will require the closure of the Kingfish Boat Ramp 7 a.m. April 16-7 a.m. April 18. Info: amiprojects.io, 941-306-4660, info@amiprojects.io.

Gulf Drive/55th Street/56th Street : Holmes Beach’s Gulf Drive Sea Level Rise Mitigation Project continues, with periodic lane closures in the area of 55th Street and 56th Street, from Gulf Drive to Marina Drive. Info: 941-708-5768.

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

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

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

Did you know? Cameras across Manatee County show traffic conditions at smarttrafficinfo.org. — lisa Neff

BBPD

motorcycle stop leads to fleeing arrest

By robert Anderson islander reporter

The Bradenton Beach Police Department arrested Benjamin Robert Allen Sanders, 18, of Bradenton, March 29 on suspicion of fleeing and eluding law enforcement.

An officer had observed a motorcycle traveling at a high rate of speed entering the city from Longboat Key, according to a BBPD report. A laser reading showed the motorcycle traveling 76 mph in a 35-mph zone.

When the officer activated emergency lights and

CAUTION

The sidewalk on the south side of the Anna Maria island Bridge remains closed April 2. it has been closed since a temporary water main was installed in 2023.

D.B.E. Management has been boring a new subaqueous water main under Anna Maria Sound to replace the bridge pipeline with completion planned for this fall.

islander

sirens, the northbound rider accelerated and fled before turning onto Bridge Street.

A BBPD report states the pursuit ended near Second Street North when the motorcycle struck the front push bumper of a patrol vehicle and fell.

The rider was charged with fleeing and eluding, speeding more than 30 mph over the speed limit and operating a motorcycle without a license.

He was transported to the Manatee County jail. His arraignment hearing will be May 15 at the Manatee County Judicial Center in Bradenton.

HB man arrested for DUI, excessive speeding

Holmes Beach police arrested resident Robert Gaynor, 38, March 30 on three second-degree misdemeanor charges for allegedly driving under the influence of alcohol, speeding in excess of 50 mph over the limit and refusing to submit to DUI testing.

The arrest followed a traffic stop for alleged speeding around 12:11 a.m.

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

An arraignment will be May 5 at the county judicial center in Bradenton.

Gaynor failed fi eld sobriety exercises and then refused breath samples for testing, according to a report. He was arrested and transported to the Manatee County jail, where he was released the same day after posting $800 bond.

— ryan Paice

Beautification begins for Holmes Beach access points

By ryan Paice islander reporter

The Anna Maria Island Garden Club is leaving its mark on public beach access points in Holmes Beach.

AMIGC member Mary Lange, who serves on the city’s parks and beautification committee, talked April 1 about the project to beautify access points between 28th Street and White Avenue.

The project is the latest in the club’s ongoing efforts to beautify the island. Past projects include purchasing wind sculptures for the cities of Anna Maria and Holmes Beach.

The new project was conceived with the help of Mayor Judy Titsworth, who pointed the club to the municipality’s beach accesses.

AMIGC members surveyed 34 accesses last September and found many were “little more than sand, signs and trash bins.”

Club members concluded that the dumpsters and trash bins at each of the entryways were an “eyesore” and their focus was to hide them behind wooden fencing.

The project also involves planting vegetation and installing additional ropes and bollards at some locations.

The improvements cost $1,000 per beach access point, so the club sought donations.

Lange said the club had raised $18,000 as of April 1, enough to cover 18 access points.

Donors will be recognized with signage at their

sponsored access point and thank you letters from the city.

The city’s public works department recently began making the improvements.

So far, Lange said four access points have been beautified and the hope is to finish all 18 by the end of the year.

“They’re doing a great job so far,” Lange said. “They’re very simple fixes, but I think the sites are much more attractive. It’s nice to look at it and the first thing you don’t see is the garbage cans. … And I think that once the sea grapes get bigger, it’ll look even better.”

Lange added that the club was no longer seeking donations.

“We figured, let’s stop at 18, and then maybe next year, if there’s still interest in beautifying other spots, we can launch the program again,” she said.

Lange added that the garden club wanted to do something similar in the other two island cities.

“I think it would be great if we could do more in Anna Maria and Bradenton Beach,” she said.

HB public works director Herb Raybourn did not respond to calls April 1 and April 2 from The Islander.

Center plays out full week of sports, crowns champs

By Kevin P. Cassidy islander reporter

It was a full week of sports at the Center of Anna Maria Island, with champions crowned in two adult leagues and the kickoff for the youth soccer spring season.

The 35-and-over adult winter soccer season came to a close April 1 with the championship game pitting No. 1 Hogan’s Pool Service & Repair against No. 2 Bubble Binz.

Cassidy

The two teams battled to a 2-2 tie through regulation, with Hogan’s Pool Service receiving a goal each from Ryan Hogan and Will Kretzman. Eric Pullen notched two goals for Bubble Binz.

In the ensuing penalty-kick shootout, Ryan Hogan, Jon Stern, Blair Schlossberg and Will Kretzman made their spot kicks, while Bubble Binz made three of four penalty kicks with Nate Welch, John Shanks and James Lynch converting.

This left Bubble Binz with one more chance to tie the game and force a fifth and deciding kick from Hogan’s Pool Service, but Pullen’s spot kick was denied by Hogan’s goalie Tyler Bekkerus, giving them the win and the championship.

Champ crowned in indoor soccer No. 1 seed Pool America outscored No. 3 Slim’s Place 6-3 April 1 to win the adult indoor soccer league in the gym at the Center of Anna Maria Island.

Gerardo Urbiola led the way for Pool America with three goals, while teammates Christopher Klotz, Daniel Hampton and Ethan Hampton each scored a goal. Keith Mahoney finished with 12 saves in goal in the championship game.

Ted Hurst notched all three goals for Slim’s Place, which also received 13 saves from Julian Bejarano in the loss.

The playoffs began with semifinal matchups, start-

and Daniel Hampton. Gerardo Urbiola added a goal and Keith Mahoney helped preserve the victory with 12 saves in goal.

Niko Zamora scored two goals and Leo Gonzalez added a goal for Solid Rock, which also received 11 saves from James Roadman in the loss.

Key Royale

golf news

ing with No. 2 Sato Real Estate taking on Slim’s Place. Slim’s Place outscored Sato 8-5 behind four goals from Nick Schreiber and two goals from Kali Richards. Ted Hurst and Edwin Pichardo each added goals to complete the scoring.

Chaz Heller scored two goals for Sato, which also received goals from Erica Nielsen, Brandon Rolland and Marcello Rubio in the loss.

The second semifinal match saw Pool America hold on for a 5-3 victory over Solid Rock Construction behind two goals each from Christopher Klotz

Regular golf action resumed at the Key Royale Club in Holmes Beach after a few weeks of rounds resulting in various club champions.

The men played their weekly modified-Stableford system match March 30, when John Cassese fired a plus-5 to earn a one-point victory over second-place John Kolojeski.

The women played a nine-hole individual-low-net match in two flights March 31.

Lisa Edmonds birdied the sixth hole on the way to

SportsShort

Coquina Beach to host prelude to Senior PGA event

Bradenton Beach will host a golf event Monday, April 13, as the Golf Coast Drive tees off at Coquina Beach to open Senior PGA Championship week.

Organizers expect about 150 participants, including 80 youths in a First Tee Sarasota/Manatee clinic.

Activities run 1-7 p.m., with public play, youth instruction and a closing awards ceremony scheduled throughout the afternoon and evening.

The contest is a prelude to a larger event: April 16-19, The Concession Golf Course in Bradenton will host the Senior PGA Championship.

Notice of the contest had drawn criticism from environmentalists, including the executive director of Suncoast Waterkeeper, who suggested a change of venue.

When early plans included driving biodegradable golf balls into the Gulf of Mexico, Waterkeeper’s Abbey Tyrna raised concerns with the makeup of the golf balls and the message driving them into the Gulf would send.

Referring to a lab report on the golf balls, she had told The Islander and the BACVB, “The ecological fate and the ecological toxicity of the materials are unknown and cannot be extrapolated from the OECD 301B test. However, beyond this, teaching kids to throw or hit things into the Gulf just sends the wrong message.”

In response, the BACVB said golf balls would not be hit into the water and also said there would be environmental information shared at the event.

For more info, go tobradentongulfislands.com.

— lisa neff

sports COntinUeD frOM 16

a 5-under-par 27, giving her an easy victory in Flight A. Roxanne Koche took second place at 1-under-par 31, while Rene Chapman, who had a chip in on the fourth hole finished at even-par 32.

Annette Hall carded the low round of the day with a 6-under-par 26 that gave her first place in Flight B, three strokes ahead of second-place finisher Susan VanOrsdel. Connie Livanos and Nina McSparren tied for third place with matching 1-under-par 31s.

Members played a three-club scramble April 4 to close out the week of golf. The team of Dale Hudson, Bill Merrill and Tom Nelson matched the 3-under-par 29 carded by John Cassese, Mike Clements and Brian Comer to finish in a tie for first place. Four teams tied for second place at 2-under-par 30.

Horseshoe news

Horseshoe action at the Anna Maria City Hall pits on April 1 was short and sweet.

The team of Bill Galbally and Bob Lee posted the lone 3-0 record in pool play and were the day’s outright champs.

The April 4 games saw three teams advance to the playoffs with 3-0 pool play records.

The team of Tim Sofran and Jay Disbrow drew the bye into the finals and watched as Bob Rowley and Tom Farrington advanced to the final with a 22-10 victory over Dom Livedoti and Steve Doyle.

Rowley and Farrington steamrolled Sofran and Disbrow 25-2 to earn the day’s bragging rights.

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

There is no charge to play and all are welcome. Share sports news. email news@islander.org.

Center hosts wine-tasting event

a table of patrons share in the festivities March 28 at a wine tasting event at the Center of anna Maria island, 407 Magnolia ave., anna Maria. the event featured wines from Chile and argentina and proceeds support the center’s youth summer camp programs. islander Photo: robert anderson

Sea stars take center stage

second-grade performers at anna Maria elementary light up the stage during their March 31 production of “love Our Oceans,” bringing sea creatures to life with costumes, songs and dances. islander

PTO to showcase student art

Anna Maria Elementary School’s Parent-Teacher Organization is inviting students to contribute artwork for a Children’s Gallery display at the upcoming AME PTO Gala.

Parents are asked to bring their child’s artwork to AME’s front office, 4700 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, by Friday, April 10.

The PTO will frame and hang the pieces for display during the gala, which will be at 6 p.m. Saturday, April 18, at the Center of Anna Maria Island, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria.

Submissions should be on 8-by-11-inch paper when possible and all media types are accepted, including crayon, paint and pencil.

For more information about the art effort or the gala, call AME at 941-708-5525.

— lisa neff

Anglers catch spring fever as fishing action spirals upward

By Capt. Danny stasny islander reporter

As we progress through April, Anna Maria Island anglers with pent-up anticipation of a springtime catch are seeing fruition.

Water temperatures are on the rise and the bite inshore and in the Gulf is breaking loose, resulting in anglers wanting to spend as much time as possible on the water — especially after experiencing such a long, cold winter, at least by island standards. With minimal amounts of rainfall, most of the inshore waters from the Sunshine Skyway Bridge south through Sarasota Bay are about as clear as they can get, making for a surreal experience in the shallows. It’s possible to see everything on the bottom and peer into a world that most of the time is hidden from the naked eye.

Lush grass flats and pristine sandy bottoms are exposed for all to see, as well as prop scars and bare patches from delinquent boats that have been abandoned and remain resting in place, blocking light to the habitats below.

These clear waters present opportunities to find inshore and nearshore structure, like wrecks, rock piles and reefs for future reference. Spending some time during the midday when the sun is straight overhead can be well worth the effort because it can lead to new discoveries and potential places to catch fish.

In some instances, just going over old waypoints is good because you can monitor if they’re still there, broken up or even covered with sand from Hurricane Milton.

In any scenario, now’s the time to get out and do some exploring, as well as some fishing.

The inshore bite is really getting good, with good numbers of snook, redfish and trout inhabiting the flats and mangrove shorelines.

Migratory species like cobia, kingfish and mackerel are patrolling structure in the bays and in the Gulf. And with the clear water in the Gulf, you should be able to spot cruising cobia from a long distance — they typically stick out like a sore thumb.

Moving to depths of 100 feet or more is getting good because red grouper and mangrove snapper are frequenting wrecks and hard-bottom areas in good numbers.

So, while the waters are perfect, make some time to get out there for scouting and fishing.

On my own Just Reel charters, the clear, calm conditions of the inshore waters of Tampa Bay are yielding pleasurable days and plenty of action.

Spotted seatrout are making quite an impression as they aggressively strike live bait and artificials. All size ranges are coming to the boat for my anglers and,

bite.

Fishing over structure or deep grass in the bay is yielding migratory fish like mackerel, ladyfish and jack crevalle. The size of most macks being caught is impressive as some exceed 24 inches to the fork. As for a tablefare, not everyone likes them, but they drive some folks wild. As for ladyfi sh and jacks, they’re good for action and shark bait. They’re effective in both departments.

Capt. Johnny Mattay of Anna Maria Charters is growing enthusiastic about fishing inshore around AMI as the water temperatures rise.

Fishing mangrove edges, oyster bars and shallow grass flats with sandy potholes is leading to some great inshore action.

Mattay says snook fishing is proving to be quite good, with numerous catches occurring during the higher stages of the tides.

The same applies for targeting redfish. Schooling reds are being found resulting in multiple simultaneous hookups, which is enough to keep everyone occupied until their arms are worn out.

Moving to deeper grass flats is yielding plenty of spotted seatrout for Mattay’s clients, with most action occurring on the incoming tides.

depending on location, we’re hitting limits on most days, plus plenty more being caught and released.

Larger specimens of 22-25 inches are being found on shallow flats during high tides, while fish 13-18 inches are abundant on the deeper flats.

Targeting snook is getting dialed in as many fish have moved out of their wintertime haunts and are prowling the flats in search of a meal. Live shiners free-lined along mangrove edges are quickly being inhaled by hungry linesiders. Many are schoolies of 20-24 inches, although larger fish are in the mix, surprising unexpected anglers as they dump line off the spool and the drag screams loudly across the flat.

Redfish are frequenting the same areas as snook and are being caught randomly to add variety to the

For anglers looking to cast their line in the Gulf, Mattay says nearshore and offshore action is heating up. Artificial reefs and wrecks are producing kingfish and Spanish mackerel, as well as gag grouper and Cobia. And, in the deeper offshore waters, red grouper and large mangrove snapper are rounding out the bite.

Capt. David White is finding good action for his clients while working the reefs and wrecks in the Gulf. Kingfi sh and mackerel are putting White’s anglers to the test as they peel drag and fight until the end. Cobia are present in these areas, too, and are equally as strong, just not as frequent.

Moving inshore, White says snook fishing is starting to get good with good numbers of fish being caught on half-day charters. Redfish also are a good bet during higher tides, and casting live shiners along sandy beaches and mangrove edges with oyster bars present is doing the trick.

Send photos and fishing reports to fish@islander. org.

By Lisa Neff

Federal ‘God Squad’ votes for extinction

The Trump administration did something in late March that hadn’t been done in more than 30 years: it convened the Endangered Species Committee, a sevenmember federal panel so rarely used and so consequential that it has earned the nickname the “God Squad.”

The administration used this committee to hand the Gulf oil and gas industry a broad exemption from our most important wildlife protection law, the Endangered Species Act.

The committee voted to free Gulf energy producers from key Endangered Species Act requirements.

This isn’t just a policy shift. It’s a declaration of priorities — and those priorities have little to do with the natural world that generations of Americans have fought to protect.

The Gulf of Mexico is home to more than two dozen marine and coastal species listed as endangered or threatened.

The Rice’s whale — the only large whale that lives year-round in the Gulf — numbers about 50 animals. The BP Deepwater Horizon disaster killed nearly 20% of the population. Even before safeguards were stripped away, the National Marine Fisheries Service had concluded that Gulf oil and gas activities were likely to jeopardize the species’ continued existence.

Sea turtles don’t fare better. Five species face threats from Gulf drilling operations. The federal government has estimated that without mitigation, the industry will kill more than 30,000 sea turtles in the region over the next 45 years.

Manatees, sperm whales, Gulf sturgeon and piping plovers are also among the species left more vulnerable because of the administration’s move.

Interior Secretary Doug Burgum, in a statement that barely acknowledged the endangered species

at the heart of the committee’s mandate, warned that energy production in the Gulf “must not be disrupted or held hostage by ongoing litigation.” The Interior Department framed the decision as a matter of energy security, national security and economic stability.

But the Endangered Species Act doesn’t prohibit offshore drilling. It requires that the oil and gas industry take precautions — such as vessel speed restrictions, routing measures and equipment modifications — to reduce harm.

Collin O’Mara, president and CEO of the National Wildlife Federation, put it plainly: “Extinction is an unacceptable price to pay for expediency, especially when long-established, commonsense practices can help energy development and wildlife recovery co-exist.”

The Natural Resources Defense Council said the committee “was designed for impossible, intractable conflicts where there was no other way forward. That

Nesting notes

1st sea turtle nest of 2026

By lisa neff islander editor

Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring is checking the shoreline for nesting birds while also preparing for the start of sea turtle nesting season.

The calendar date for nesting season on AMI is May 1, but sea turtles don’t adhere to the Gregorian calendar. Some years, nesting begins in April. Some years, the first sea turtle nest isn’t recorded until the second week of May.

Meanwhile, in other Florida locations, sea turtle nesting season is underway.

On Feb. 11, Loggerhead Marinelife Center documented the earliest sea turtle nest ever recorded by the center — a leatherback nest on Juno Beach, as confirmed by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation

is not what this is.”

What this is is an administration handing Big Oil a free pass to kill whales and sea turtles because complying with the law cuts into profits, the NRDC argued.

“What happened … is a warrant for the extinction of endangered species in the Gulf, signed by political appointees on behalf of some of the wealthiest companies on Earth,” said Andrew Wetzler, NRDC’s senior vice president for nature.

NRDC and other groups have signaled they will challenge the decision.

Wetzler said, “This administration shut down offshore wind projects that were nearly complete, gutted renewable energy programs and then manufactured an energy emergency to justify bulldozing protections for endangered animals. You cannot sabotage the alternatives and then claim the only option left is to sacrifice our wildlife. We will use every tool at our disposal to fight this.”

Fight on.

Commission. The nest also was the first of the season in the state.

The nesting season on Florida’s southeast coast runs March 1-Oct. 31, while on AMI’s Gulf coast the season is May 1-Oct. 31.

As AMI’s nesting season approaches, beachgoers are reminded to share the shore.

Beachgoers should never approach or touch a nesting sea turtle. Touching, prodding or shining lights is illegal and may cause nesting turtles to abandon the effort or disturb them in ways that affect how well nests are deposited in the sand, covered and camouflaged.

If hatchlings are spotted on the beach, allow them to crawl to the water on their own.

Removing or digging hatchlings out of a nest is illegal and removing sand above the nest makes it more difficult for hatchlings to emerge.

Beachgoers should also remove obstacles such as chairs, canopies, tables, sports gear and umbrellas before dark and properly dispose of trash.

Holes dug in the sand should be filled back in and sandcastles knocked over so that nesting turtles and hatchlings are not impacted.

Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch can be reached at 941-301-8434.

The FWC wildlife alert hotline is 888-404-3922.

BB officials discover unpermitted work at restaurant

By robert anderson islander reporter

Bradenton Beach officials said fencing and concrete work at Salt Bar & Table restaurant began without permits, prompting the city to require after-the-fact applications.

The restaurant, 2519 Gulf Drive N., is owned by 2519 Gulf LLC, which the Manatee County Property Appraiser’s website lists as being owned by developer Shawn Kaleta.

The work was identified during a city review of activity at the property and permit applications were submitted only after officials intervened.

Code enforcement officer Evan Harbus went by the property March 30 after being contacted about concerns and began looking into the situation. He then coordinated with interim building official Rob Perry to conduct a joint visit March 31.

Harbus said April 1 that he did not immediately act, explaining that he needed to verify what was occurring before taking enforcement steps.

“I have to follow through more with this … and I have to really look into it before I approach,” he said.

Harbus said his ability to act was limited to what can be observed from public areas, often referred to as “plain-view doctrine.”

During that joint inspection, offi cials said they identified fence and concrete work requiring permits that had not been issued.

A check with the building department March 31 found no permits had been issued for the fence and concrete work.

As of April 1, permit applications were in place and remained under review.

salt Bar & table, 2519 gulf Drive n., Bradenton Beach, where city officials say fencing and concrete work was performed without permits. islander Photo: robert anderson

Officials also said a previously submitted permit application related to a carport was withdrawn by the applicant.

Perry said enforcement options for work begun before permitting are limited, typically involving double permit fees.

The Islander reached out to Kaleta by text April 1 but there was no response as of press time.

Island chamber scholarship awards announced

The Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce announced business scholarship awards mixed with light bites and refreshments at a business card exchange at LaPensee Plumbing in Holmes Beach.

The scholarship panel included Eric Cairns of Cedar Cove Resorts, Logan Nichols of Island Real Estate, Amy Moriarty of Kern & Gilder/Island Kitchens & Baths, Bob Slicker of the AMI Rotary Club and Felica Goett of Blooms by the Beach.

Each recipient was awarded $1,000. Award winners are:

Kelton Hardee graduating from Parrish Community High School. He plans to attend State College

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

of Florida to earn a degree in nursing. He served as JROTC battalion commander, overseeing a service learning program and led a literacy outreach initiative that supported 200 elementary students in six Manatee County schools. Additionally, he developed a student/cadet mentorship program that provides younger students with structured academic leadership development. Kelton plans to become a registered nurse and achieve a physician assistant degree.

Ella Fish is a student at Manatee High School, where she stood out for an AP Capstone diploma. She has shown herself to be a leader in golf, theater, multiple clubs and volunteering. Through math and a love for theater, she developed in interest in industrial engineering and stage management. Ella plans to attend the University of Miami, where she will pursue her goals of achieving an industrial engineering degree and her passion for theater.

Zachariah Kersey is graduating from Lakewood Ranch High School at the top of his class. He has used his talents in computer science as a tool for impact, having developed a website to centralize information

and a management system to keep teams organized and mentor younger members. He also led a Hurricane Milton food drive for seniors in need. Zach plans to acquire a degree in computer science and software engineering at the University of Florida.

For more information on the chamber scholarship program, call 941-778-1541.

— Bonner Joy

IslBizCal

Compiled by lisa neff

THIS WEEK

Thursday, April 9

11:30 a.m. — Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce luncheon, Kiwi Style Fish and Chips, 3608 E. Bay Drive, Holmes Beach. Fee applies. Info: 941-778-1541.

SAVE THE DATES

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

Live! AMI! Music!

Who’s playing tonight?

With spring break and Easter in the rearview, let me say, what an excellent season we’re having!

Venues are packed and there are more musicians playing on the island than ever — live music everywhere!

The crowds may ease a little, but the weather and music will still be going strong.

Here are some of the artists playing this week: Mademoiselle Paris, 9906 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria, mademoiselleparis.com. Chuck Davis, 5:308:30 p.m. Friday-Saturday.

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

Ugly Grouper, 5704 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, uglygrouper.com. Nathan Allen noon-3 p.m. and 5-8 p.m. Wednesday; Sebastian Tenorio noon-3p.m. and Rob Viola 5-8 p.m. Thursday; Joe Wood noon-3 p.m. and GulfCoastLife 5-8 p.m. Friday; Cam Stockton noon-3 p.m. and Zion 5-8 p.m. Saturday; Scotty Mac noon-3 p.m. and Raquel Santana 5-8 p.m. Sunday, Chad Tallman noon-3 p.m. and Miguel Lantigua 5-8 p.m. Monday, Cody Moore noon-3p.m. and Just Layman 5-8 p.m. Tuesday.

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

Wicked Cantina, 101 Seventh Street 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. and Ross David 6-9 p.m. Friday; Hi FI Drifters 2-5 p.m. and Chad Tallman 6-9 p.m. Saturday; Hi Fi Drifters 2-5 p.m. and Chris Warner 6-9 p.m. Sunday; Matthew McCartney 6-9 p.m. Monday; Ken Macy 6-9 p.m. Tuesday.

Island Time Bar and Grill, 111 Gulf Drive S., BB, islandtimebarandgrill.com. Adam Hocker 6:30-9:30 p.m. Wednesday; Island Hoppers 7-10 p.m. Thursday; Jah Movement 7-10 p.m. Friday; Lisa and the AllTerrain Band 7-10 p.m. Saturday; Marcel 6:30-9:30 p.m. Sunday; Rob Viola 6:30-9:30 p.m. Monday; Opie Taylor 6:30-9:30 p.m. Tuesday.

Coquina Beach Market, 1800 Gulf Drive S., BB, coquinabeachmarket.org. Mike Sales 10-2 p.m.

Wednesday; Chuck Davis 10-2 p.m. Friday. Swordfish Grill, 4628 119th St. W., Bradenton, swordfishgrillcortez.com. Tim Chandler 5-8 p.m. Wednesday; Ted Stevens 5-8 p.m. Thursday; Justin Layman 5-8 p.m. Friday; Tim Chandler 12-4 p.m. and Marshall Lowery 5-8 p.m. Saturday; Tim Chandler

songwriters in the round, a concert and conversation featuring emily roff, Dean Johanesen and Mike sales, reveals the inspiration for the artists’ original songs and delivers intimate guitar and vocal performances March 29 for an audience of nearly 100 people at the island Players theater in anna Maria. islander Photo: lisa e

noon-4 p.m. and 5-8 p.m. Sunday; Steel Vibes 5-8 p.m. Monday; Ted Stevens 5-8 p.m. Tuesday.

Porkbelly’s Eatery, 9516 Cortez Road W., Bradenton, porkbellyseatery.com. Zack Pomerleau 6:30-8:30 p.m. Friday; Open Mic 2:30-5:30 p.m. and Stevie B 6:30-8:30 p.m. Saturday.

88 Live Piano Bar, 6640 Cortez Road W., Bradenton. 88livebradenton.com. Phoenix Five 7-10 p.m. Wednesday; Westbound & Down 7-10 p.m. Thursday; Dueling Pianos featuring Jordan & Todd 8-11:30 p.m. Friday & Saturday; Elton John Tribute, Still Standing 6-9 p.m. Sunday; 88 Live Jam Band 7-10 p.m. Tuesday.

Clancy’s Sports Bar & Grill, 6218 Cortez Road W., Bradenton. clancysirishsportspub.com. Rye Road 6-10 p.m. Thursday; Eric Von 6-10 p.m. Friday; Lisa Kay & The Goldtop Band 5-9 p.m. Saturday; Dr. Dave Band 3-7 p.m. Sunday; and finally, Zack Pomerleau and a chili cook-off Tuesday.

If you wind up with me, be sure to say, “Hi!”

AMI TOURISM:

so the net collection in February was $3,832,815. For the first five months of the 2025-26 fiscal year, the gross tourist tax totaled $13,123,886.

Endless Season

February tourist tax collections

february 2022: $2,954,355

february 2023: $3,218,684

february 2024: $3,290,496

february 2025: $3,536,640

february 2026: $3,951,356

source: Manatee County tax Collector

February tourist tax tops

February’s 2025 revenue

By lisa neff islander editor

The shortest month delivered bigger dollars for tourism, showing a rebound from the 2024 storms and their aftermath.

The Manatee County Tax Collector’s Office April 1 released February collection numbers for the tourist development tax or bed tax — the 6% tax collected on overnight accommodations of six months or less.

The month generated $3,951,356 in tax revenues.

The amount is 11.73% higher than the $3,536,640 collected in February 2025.

Holmes Beach topped collections on Anna Maria Island in February, generating $796,850, about 20.17% of the countywide total.

Anna Maria accounted for about 13% of collections, bringing in $513,751.

In Bradenton Beach, the February tax amounted to $176,904 or 4.48% of the total.

Some other numbers for February:

• Unincorporated Manatee County generated $1,661,775 or 42.05%.

• Bradenton generated $334,256 or 8.46%;

• Longboat Key generated $367,608 or 9.3%;

• Palmetto generated $100,482, which was 2.54% of the total.

The collection fee or commission on the tax is 3%,

To date this fiscal year, every month’s collection has been up compared to the last fiscal year, with the largest increase in collections — 36.7% — reported in November.

State law requires that resort tax revenues be used to boost and develop tourism.

In Manatee County, the tax money is used to fund the Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau and the Bradenton Area Convention Center, as well as tourism-related entities such as Realize Bradenton and the Pittsburgh Pirates.

Funding also supports tourism-related projects such as beach renourishment, construction of the Anna Maria City Pier and, this year, the water taxi operating between Bradenton and AMI.

The Manatee County Tourist Development Council recommends how to spend the money to the county commission.

The March numbers will be released in early May.

Out

& about email news@islander.org

Vacationing on, about AMI?

Visiting Anna Maria Island?

We’d love to see the island through your eyes. The Islander invites vacationers to share photos taken at local restaurants, shops, beaches and favorite hangouts across Anna Maria, Holmes Beach, Bradenton Beach and Cortez.

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

Please, email photos to news@islander.org with the names of people pictured, the photo location and date, city of residence and a contact email.

Whether it’s a sunset dinner, an ice cream cone, a beach stroll or a fun time shopping at a souvenir stop, share your memories and be part of the island story. — lisa neff

ITEMS FOR SALE

TWO-WHEEL KAYAK dolly $50, 15-foot fiberglass canoe, good condition $100. 941-779-5098.

JEEP EXTERIOR TRIM parts, $99 and less. 941524-0433.

FREE: DVD PLAYER and cabinet, many DVDS and VHS tapes. Just pick up. Call 941-447-6740.

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

FREEBIE

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

P rivate anna M aria i sland Dolphin tours, sunset Cruises and sandbar tours for up to twelve passengers with Manatee river Boat rentals and Water sports. visit us online: Dolphin tours https:// manateeriverwatersports.com/dolphin-toursbradenton sunset cruises, https://manateeriverwatersports.com/sunset-cruises-bradento n sandbar tours, https://manateeriverwatersports. com/sandbar-tours-bradenton

YOUR HEALTH IS important! Stop drinking and bathing in hard, impure, chlorinated water. Call Tim for a free three-part water test. Westinghouse full home water filtration system. 941-713-0579.

BUSINESS OWNER? TIRED of your credit card fees? 97 percent chance you’re paying a third party processor. Save by going direct. No contracts. Free upgraded terminal. Call Mr. Winn, 941-713-0579. Local.

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

GARAGE SALE

NEIGHBORHOOD SALE: 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Friday and Saturday, April 10-11. Jeep exterior trim parts, lady’s bike, kayak, beach canopy, sun loungers. Household items, chairs, jigsaws and more. 505 Bayview Drive, Holmes Beach.

YARD SALE: 8 a.m. -1 p.m. Friday, Saturday, April 10-11. Antique iron gates and bricks, birdbath, garden, kitchenware, books, art easel. 112 Palmetto Avenue, 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, 941896-2915.

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, 941-840-3181.

SUNSET CRUISES, EGMONT Key, bachelorette party boats and dolphin tours on Anna Maria Island with Manatee River boat rentals and water sports! Book unforgettable private charters with local USCG licensed captains. Explore AMI waters in comfort. Reserve now: https://manateeriverwatersports.com/ ami-boat-rentals

HELP WANTED

LOOKING FOR SALES clerk at beach shop on Bridge Street. Part-time day shift, Noon - 4 p.m. $15/ hour. Call 941-209-0497.

THE ISLANDER IS looking for a savvy, sharp, sales rep to manage client advertising and hit the road to connect with businesses looking to increase their bottom line by advertising in the newspaper. We’ve got 34 years of experience and results to share. Email news@islander.org.

KIDS FOR HIRE

KIDS FOR HIRE ads are FREE for up to three weeks for Island youths under 16 looking for work. Ads must be placed by email, send to classifieds@ 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 941-524-8067 to schedule an appointment.

PC Or teCH issues? not sure where to start? With years of experience, i’ll come to you with reliable solutions. Contact g avin at 928-5871309. www.gse.codes

sarasOta Painting: interiOr/exterior/cabinets: Call or text Don, 941-900-9398. free estimates. fully insured, twenty years’ experience.

riDeeasY 247 YOUr professional, reliable and courteous car service to airports and events since 2015. You can reach us via text 941-4477737 or email to mrfort5001@gmail.com We are available 24/7.

LOOK NO MORE! Residential, vacation rental and commercial cleaning. Give us a call, 941-2508548.

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. g arage 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 727-623-5050 or visit u-plus-me.com

gOt DirtY WinDOWs? free estimates/insured. five-star customer service rating. “We want to earn your business. Downeast Window Cleaning, 207-852-6163.

lOOKing fOr sOMeOne who needs me: Clean, house-sit. i can cook, make sandwiches. i can do anything you can do but better! i can run to the grocery store for you. i can walk pets or go out to lunch with you. looking for a part-time job caregiving companion, i am your right arm! i love people and i love helping others. i have references and i’m reliable and dependable. My name is Dena gray a.k.a. sparkles! 941-524-2234.

aCHaUffer4U fOr transPOrtatiOn anywhere in florida. Properly insured and over 40 years in Bradenton. Dennis, 941-812-5930.

islanDer arCHive. Uoff florida digital newspaper collection at ufdc.ufl.edu.

SERVICES Continued

ONECALL CLEANUP. Junk removal, water damage, and more. Fast, reliable service. Call, 941-5441260.

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.

a M i air PO rt s HU ttle g uy: We pick up from tampa, s t. Petersburg and s arasota airports. Up to seven passengers with luggage reliable, licensed and friendly transportation to and from a nna Maria i sland. a M is huttle.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. 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” 941-7200770.

HOME IMPROVEMENT

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

griffin’s HOMe iMPrOveMents inc. Handyman, fine woodwork, countertops, cabinets and wood flooring. insured and licensed. 941-7228792.

LANE’S SCREENING SERVICES: Replace your window, door or lanai screens. Many screen options available. Retired veteran serving our community! Free estimates, call 941-705-5293.

lOOKing fOr anY home improvement? JrCC Home improvement, handyman service can get the job done. Please, contact us at 413-2462410. 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.

g O rilla D rYWall re Pair ll C. l et’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, 864884-3380.

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

HOME IMPROVEMENT Continued

teti tile: 40 years’ experience in Delaware, now on aMi and surrounds. tile, marble, murals. free estimates. Call John teti, 302-983-5774.

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, 941-9622874.

RENTALS

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

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

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

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, 941778-2246.

CENTRAL HOLMES BEACH, 3BR/2BA completely remodeled, walk to beach, school, trolley, shopping. Annual, Reduced from $2,595 to $2,395/month. 941713-6743.

ANNUAL RENTAL: HOLMES Beach. One block from beach. Duplex unit B. 2BR/1BA completely renovated. No smoking/no pets. Water/trash included in rent. $2,500/month. Call or text Joshua at Connect Management Group LLC, 941-545-0808 or email connectmgllc@gmail.com

COZY 2BR/1BA ANNUAL rental: Unfurnished north Holmes Beach, ground-level, backyard, five-minute walk to beach, washer/dryer hookup, no dishwasher, no smoking/no pets. $2,600/month plus utilities. 941447-9672.

ANNA MARIA COTTAGE available monthly for April, May and June. $4,200/month. 941-778-8456. terryaposporos@gmail.com

ANNUAL RENTAL: BRADENTON Beach, elevated 3BR/2BA, garage. Gulf View, reduced $2,250/month. First/last. 941-778-1098, leave detailed message. PERICO BAY CLUB: Upgraded villa. 2BR/2BA, garage. $3,600/month, off-season rate. Real Estate Mart, 941-356-1456.

OFF-SEASON RENTAL: Upgraded 2BR/2BA, 1,500 sf condo. Turnkey furnished, heated pool and spa. Pickle ball and tennis. Three to six-month lease. Call for times and price. Real Estate Mart, 941-3561546.

REAL ESTATE

W innie MCH ale , realt O r , 941-504-6146. Dalton Wade real estate. You need an aggressive and experienced realtor in today’s market! selling island homes, sarasota and Bradenton areas. Multi-million-dollar producer! “selling HomesMaking Dreams Come true.”

BraDentOn COnDO fOr sale: newly updated, fully furnished, 2Br/2Ba, 1,100 sf. Carport, patio and docking available. $219,000. Call 941-7049432.

Pal M a s O la s HO res : l and-owned park. 55 and older community. Manufactured home, 2B r/2B a 1,058 sf. fully furnished. four miles from aMi. $245,000. 443-523-2973.

SNOWBIRD SPECIAL: NICELY furnished upgraded 2BR/2BA condo. Heated pool and spa, pickle ball and tennis courts. Super deal at $179,000. Real Estate Mart, 941-356-1456.

FANTASTIC PRIVATE VIEW of lake and golf course. 2BR/2BA plus den/office. Two-car garage with caged, heated pool on The Tara golf course. Open floor plan, high ceilings. Come have a look. $580,000 or best offer. Real Estate Mart, 941-356-1456.

NORTH PALMETTO: EASY access to St. Pete or Tampa. Like new 3BR/2BA, three-car garage. Lakefront with fire pit. $398,000. Real Estate Mart, 941356-1456.