The Islander Newspaper E-Edition: Wednesday, Dec, 03, 2025

Waterkeeper presses bay health issues

By Robert Anderson Islander Reporter

Suncoast Waterkeeper executive director Abbey Tyrna is calling on Bradenton officials to take immediate steps to address what she described as a persistent, worsening bacterial contamination problem in Palma Sola Bay North.

In a Nov. 25 letter to Bradenton Mayor Gene Brown, Tyrna wrote that the bay is experiencing a sharp rise in elevated enterococci bacteria readings and that exceedances have risen to levels not seen in more than a decade.

The bacteria signals contamination from human or animal fecal waste and elevated levels can increase the risk of gastrointestinal illness, skin infections and other health problems.

Suncoast Waterkeeper works to protect and restore waterways through outreach, advocacy and monitoring.

“Our monitoring results demonstrate that Palma Sola Bay North is failing to meet state water quality standards for Enterococci bacteria, its primary indicator for recreational safety,” Tyrna wrote.

She said Suncoast Waterkeeper’s sampling from 2022 to 2025 shows exceedances occurring more frequently than they did during a 2001-2011 period, when the bay recorded 20 exceedances over 11 years.

“Last year, we documented 20 exceedances, and this year we are on pace to document an equal number. This indicates a pronounced and persistent decline in water quality, posing a public health risk,” Tyrna wrote.

The Florida Department of Health

TURN TO PALMA SOLA, PAGE 5

Back in the day in Holmes Beach

A postcard from 1968 shows sunbathers at Manatee Public Beach, 4000 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. The city is marking its 75th anniversary this week — some 27,375 days of life in paradise. Islander Photo: Courtesy Manatee County Public Library System

Kids take over in Holmes Beach

HB readies for 75th celebration

By Ryan Paice Islander Reporter

The city of Holmes Beach is threequarters of a century old.

And the city is prepping to celebrate that milestone.

Mayor Judy Titsworth spoke with The Islander Nov. 25 about the municipality’s history and the city’s plans for its 75th anniversary celebration.

In 1896, more than a half-century before the city was formed, Sam and Annie Cobb became the first people to reside on land that would become Holmes Beach.

Others soon followed and, by 1902, the fi rst island post offi ce was established at the Cobbs’ residence.

However, it was not until real estate developer Jack Holmes Sr. — Titsworth’s grandfather and the city’s namesake — arrived after World War II that a broader future came into view. Holmes created a 600-acre community and kickstarted the area’s growth. That growth included the creation of a small airport in 1947, which allowed greater access to the island. That airport closed in 1973 due to exorbitant upkeep costs and the need for improvements.

The Manatee Avenue Water Main Intracoastal Crossing project will kick off early this month, with 24/7 drilling operations expected to run throughout December.

The work will affect the eastern and western ends of the project area, as crews install pipe beneath the Intracoastal Waterway at the Anna Maria Island Bridge.

Continuous drilling is necessary to prevent the installation route from clos-

Lakeyn Olson, 6, left, roleplays as mayor of Holmes Beach Nov. 25, decreeing kids receive more toys this Christmas. With her at the dais are Krew Kleppinger, 5, and Huxley Olson, 3, portraying city commissioners. City code compliance supervisor JT Thomas said the kids were hanging out after school at the skate park outside city hall, so they were invited inside, given a tour of city hall and some Islanders 4 Clean Water merch. Thomas said Lakeyn wants to be mayor one day. Islander Photo: Courtesy CoHB

Motorists, nearby residents face roundthe-clock noise, delays on AMI Bridge

ing or becoming obstructed, according to a notice from Manatee County, which is overseeing the project.

The round-the-clock operations will continue until the new underwater pipe is secured.

Motorists can expect increased construction traffic on Manatee Avenue West, along with intermittent lane closures and fl agging operations in both directions to accommodate deliveries.

TURN TO ROADWATCH, PAGE 2

The Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, city hall, a West Manatee fire station and a recreation field now stand in its place.

In 1948, the area was used to film portions of “On An Island With You,” a Hollywood movie directed by Richard Thorpe and starring Esther Williams, Peter Lawford and Ricardo Montalban.

The city was fi nally incorporated

Storm season concludes The eye of Hurricane Melissa. The Atlantic basin produced 13 named storms, including five hurricanes. There were four major hurricanes. Read more, page 15. Islander

Courtesy European Union, Copernicus Sentinel Imagery

Municipal matters

Holiday business

Anna Maria Mayor Mark Short checked in with The Islander by email Nov. 28, saying he was enjoying a short holiday with visiting family at his home.

The “highlight was taking time away to enjoy the Thanksgiving holiday with family and friends. Back to work on Monday!”

Meanwhile, Holmes Beach Mayor Judy Titsworth texted The Islander Nov. 29, reporting her family gathered and enjoyed Thanksgiving dinner at her house. She said she was “so happy to have my house again” after a long year of storm recovery.

Before the holiday, she said she was busy working on the anniversary event at city field — coming up fast on Friday, Dec. 5, when, “Everyone is welcome to celebrate the city’s 75th anniversary.”

Meanwhile, she said, the baseball field is completed and the dog park is looking “pretty good.”

The city’s Christmas lights and decorations should start going up Dec. 1.

“It was a busy week and I’m happy to see some of our visitors returning for the holidays.”

— Bonner Joy

Q&A The Islander Poll

It is the 12th month of 2025. What was the biggest local issue for the year?

A. Rebuilding from Helene and Milton.

B. Water safety.

C. Water quality.

D. Consolidation questions.

E. Lack of affordability.

To answer the poll and see poll results, go to islander.org.

in March 1950 and was first led by Mayor Halsey T. Tichenor.

However, the municipality was not yet fully formed.

In 1954, Holmes Beach annexed three neighboring subdivisions, uniting the island’s last unincorporated lands into the municipal government.

By the 1960s, a bridge was built to connect Sand Key, later to be Key Royale, to the city’s mainland and Holmes had developed the Seaside Gardens community north of the airport land.

By 1980, the municipality had become the state’s fastest growing community, according to Better Living Magazine.

Titsworth said it is “pretty amazing” to look back at the city’s history and witness its development over the years. “It’s pretty crazy how we’ve grown,” she said. “And we’ve still been able to maintain our lower density and our height restrictions and still have that ‘old Florida’ feel. So it’s definitely something to celebrate.”

That celebration will be 5-9 p.m. Friday, Dec. 5, at city field, between 59th Street, Flotilla Drive and 62nd Street. The event will be free to attend and open to the public. It will be sponsored by the Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau and Waste Pro, the city’s waste removal franchisee.

It will feature live music performed by Jah Movement and Trevor Bystrom, children’s activities like bounce houses and face-painting, as well as a host of local vendors and community booths that will provide food and beverages for purchase, among other things.

Titsworth said the anniversary celebration also will include an antique car show organized by Becker’s Car Show. The vehicles will be parked in the lot in front of city hall, 5801 Marina Drive.

The city asks for attendees to bring a nonperishable donation to support the Roser Food Pantry during the holiday season.

“We are so excited about it,” Titsworth said. “This

is pretty big.”

From the archives

Reporting on a Founders Day event in Holmes Beach in April 2008, the late Islander reporter and editor Paul Roat wrote:

History on Anna Maria Island is somewhat short.

Although the Island itself dates back thousands of years with Native Americans and shell mounds and fishing and mosquitoes, for Holmes Beach the history is circa 1950.

That was when citizens first gathered to decide if the area which is now Holmes Beach should be a municipality.

The meeting date was March 13, 1950. It came about due to zoning issues between the city and Manatee County.

The votes for what was to eventually be named Holmes Beach were taken. Palm City got two votes; Mid-Island City, seven; Coquina Beach, 21; Tarpon Beach, one; and Holmes Beach, 23. A revote between the top two had Holmes Beach the winner in the name game.

“Land grants” in back in the day went to J.E. and Maud Holmes, Hugh G. and Jean C. Holmes, John E. Jr. and Betty Holmes, F.B. and Maudelle Giles, Karl and Lorna Karel, Ronald and Caroline Karel Boyer, and Peder Mickelson & Son Inc.

Roadwatch conTinueD from Page 1

The county also indicated that residents in the area can anticipate hearing pumps, heavy equipment, diesel engines, backup alarms and crew communications. Additionally, stationary lighting and vehicle headlights will illuminate work sites during overnight hours.

Drivers are urged to stay alert for construction vehicles and crews when traveling through the work zone.

For more information, visit www.amiprojects.io, call 941-306-4660 or email info@amiprojects.io.

— Lisa neff

Holmes Beach officials dismiss speed table/hump concerns

By ryan Paice islander reporter

Key Royale Drive’s new speed tables/humps have received mixed reviews but will stick around.

Holmes Beach officials addressed residents’ concerns about the traffic-calming devices during a Nov. 18 commission meeting.

As part of a $194,632 project, Bradenton-based Superior Asphalt installed two “speed tables” Oct. 31 in the 500 block of Key Royale Drive to address concerns about speeding motorists along the stretch, the only roadway to the Key Royale community and golf course.

While some people expressed satisfaction or indifference about their addition, others voiced discontent.

Residents like Jeff Dentz and Rick Hurst have called the devices an “inconvenience” and argued against their necessity in addressing speeding concerns in the area.

Additionally, they argue that the city approved speed tables, but speed humps were installed.

The National Association of City Transportation Pier work delayed Tampa Bay marine employees continue driving piles nov. 25 for the anna maria city Pier’s walkway, which was destroyed by last year’s storms. mayor mark Short wrote in a nov. 28 text to The islander that the contractor had driven about 20 pilings, but work was suspended and the barge was moved to safer waters nov. 26 due to high winds. Work was set to resume Dec. 1, according to Short. islander Photo: robert anderson

Officials — or NACTO — defines speed tables as flattopped devices with a height of up to 3.5 inches above a roadway and a width of 22 feet, wide enough to raise the entire wheelbase of a vehicle at once.

NACTO defines speed humps as parabolic devices with a height of up to 4 inches and width of 12-14 feet.

Based on that definition, the devices installed by the city are speed humps.

Commission Chair Carol Whitmore broached the subject at the Nov. 18 meeting by addressing the concerns voiced in a Nov. 16 email to her and other city officials from Hurst.

She said she had driven the stretch and the speed humps were “not bad,” but noted that Hurst was correct about the terminology.

“What we voted on were speed tables without really understanding the difference between speed tables and speed humps. What we got were speed humps,” Commissioner Dan Diggins agreed. “It’s not that bad. I just don’t want to get hung up on terminology.”

Mayor Judy Titsworth said the terminology may be incorrect, but the devices were designed for a

25-mph roadway and previously were tested on Sixth Avenue.

“I was very pleased with how Key Royale turned out,” she said. “A speed table is actually for 20-35 mph and we do not want people running 35 mph on Key Royale (Drive).”

Titsworth added that the city approved three speed humps, so another device could be added if the city determines speeding is still a concern.

Police Chief Bill Tokajer said tracking data since the speed humps were installed have shown they are achieving the desired effect.

Tokajer said there was one outlier, a motorist clocked driving 45 mph, but that paled in comparison to the previous highs of 50-62 mph that he said happened “regularly” beforehand.

“I’ve driven it numerous times over the past two or three days, at 25 in my car and at 20 in my golf cart, and it’s barely a bump at 25,” Commissioner Terry Schaefer — a resident of Key Royale — said. “I’m glad it’s having the desired effect.”

“This was brought to the city by the citizens on the 500 block of Key Royale Drive and I hope that others will recognize this as a good means to address their concerns,” he added.

Off Stage Ladies to lunch

The Off Stage Ladies will gather for a luncheon, holiday boutique and secret Santa gift exchange at 11:45 a.m. Wednesday, Dec. 10, at Scarpino’s Classic Italian, 6152 14th St. W. Bradenton.

The group, which supports the Island Players theater in Anna Maria, gathers on the second Wednesday of each month, October through May.

People interested in joining the Off Stage Ladies can contact Roe Duncan at 941 932-2798. Dues are $30 per year and run June 1-May 31.

Parking citation leads to email avalanche in Anna Maria

By ryan Paice islander reporter

Sometimes it does not take two to tango. Sometimes, one person is enough to keep the dance going for a while.

Canadian citizen and Winter Garden resident Alexandre Pomerleau told The Islander Nov. 21 that he was determined to continue disputing a $75 parking citation he received while visiting Anna Maria. The ticket cost has risen to $175 due to a $15 penalty applied after seven days of not paying the ticket and an $85 penalty after 30 days.

“I will die on this ticket,” Pomerleau said. “I will never, never, never pay this. I will go in prison before that.”

He was cited July 12 for parking on Jacaranda Road with his vehicle facing the wrong direction — against the flow of traffic.

Pomerleau appealed the ticket via the city’s online portal. He maintains it was unlawfully issued due to a lack of signage on Jacaranda to indicate the direction of traffic flow on the roadway, although state law requires motorists to park with the flow.

In a July 21 email sent at 7:35 a.m. to Pomerleau, code enforcement manager David DeZutter acknowledged the appeal. “If you wish to proceed with the magistrate hearing please reply by July 21, 2025, by 3 p.m. with your mailing address and citation number acknowledging you understand and agree that additional costs may be incurred, and that you wish to continue your dispute,” DeZutter wrote.

Pomerleau responded via email the same day, at 9:42 a.m. He contested the citation and requested its dismissal but said that attending a special magistrate hearing would constitute an “undue burden” since it would involve “significant travel, tolls, fuel expenses and lost time.”

DeZutter wrote back at 3:03 p.m. and said, “We did not receive a response to your appeal, so we are removing it from the frozen fee schedule.”

The next day, July 22, Pomerleau emailed Mayor Mark Short to file a complaint about how DeZutter handled his case.

He said DeZutter “intentionally delayed further communication until after the deadline had passed. He then claimed my response was incomplete. This pattern suggests a deliberate attempt to let the clock run out, rather than fairly engaging with a citizen exercising their right to contest a citation.”

Pomerleau asked Short to reopen his citation for review and open an investigation into DeZutter’s con-

duct.

Short responded July 25 and wrote that he would investigate the matter and follow up with Pomerleau at a later date.

In his next email to Pomerleau, on Aug. 13, Short wrote that he would not discuss “internal personnel matters” and does not get involved in ticket disputes. However, that was far from the end of the matter.

From Aug. 13 to Aug. 30, Pomerleau emailed Short four times urging him to address the “injustice” of his case.

On Sept. 9, Pomerleau emailed city clerk Amber LaRowe to file a complaint about what he called “a serious breach of duty” by Short.

After two more emails to LaRowe without a response, Pomerleau emailed her and Short Oct. 9 to express “a formal notice of my growing concern and frustration regarding the blatant administrative incompetence within the city of Anna Maria.”

Pomerleau recited his issues with the case and threatened legal action or public disclosure. From then until Nov. 12, he sent another 25 emails to Short and LaRowe before receiving a response.

On Nov. 14, Short wrote, in part, “According to our records, you did not request an appeal of your ticket as required by city code and as documented on the ticket you received. As a result, this matter was no

Growing at AME

master gardener christine callahan conducts a planting lesson for anna maria elementary fourth-graders nov. 21 in the school’s vegetable garden. islander

Photos: courtesy ame

longer eligible for appeal or dispute, once the appeal timeframe expired.”

“You contacted me regarding this matter after the expiration of the appeal process. … In lieu of filing the proper appeal, you chose instead to argue, via emails, on your disagreement with the ticket. Arguing a ticket without following the proper appeal process does not relieve you of the violation and related fine,” he continued.

“The city’s last communication with you was on Aug. 13, 2025, regarding this matter. There was no reason, legal or otherwise, to respond to your subsequent emails,” Short concluded.

Pomerleau responded the same day with an email again asking Short to dismiss the citation. “We are simply asking for the cancellation of this injustice, and note that we will never again set foot in, or spend a single dollar in, this city,” he wrote.

Pomerleau told The Islander that he remained steadfast in contesting the citation. “The next step will be the governor,” he said. “I think it’s a tourist trap. … This scam is probably done by many, many beach cities in Florida and it needs to stop. It will stop with me, probably.”

Short told The Islander Nov. 21 that the city will not reply further to Pomerleau. “It’s a waste of time,” he said. “There is no changing the facts of how it played out.”

issues swimming advisories when enterococci levels exceed 70 colonies per 100 milliliters at bathing beaches or 130 colonies per 100 milliliters in Class III recreational waters.

Palma Sola South is designated as a bathing beach. However, the north bay is designated as a Class III water body.

“Anything equal or greater has a statistically significant outcome of 32 illnesses per 10,000 swimmers,” Tyrna said referring to bacteria levels over the state limits.

The rise in exceedances prompted the city and the Sarasota Bay Estuary Program to launch a limited microbial source-tracking — or MST — pilot study, a method of identifying the source of fecal contamination, between August and October.

SBEP executive director Ryan Gandy has told The Islander that the study was designed to identify fecal bacteria sources in Palma Sola Bay, not to quantify how much each contributed. The testing detected bird and horse markers as the dominant identifiable sources.

“We could detect them — they were there — but knowing what their contribution was really was not possible with this data,” Gandy said.

The testing gap is geographical: the health department samples on the south side of the bay and posts advisories there. Suncoast Waterkeeper tests the north side, where Tyrna said weekly sampling repeatedly show high readings.

“Historically it’s been decaying vegetation and horses, but now we’ve added birds since we know that they are a problem,” she said.

In a Nov. 25 interview with The Islander, Tyrna stressed the MST results were qualitative, not quantitative.

She urged the city to act on controllable sources. Her letter asked the city of Bradenton to install public signage warning that enterococci levels exceed standards at least half of the year and to consider the creation of a horse-vendor permit system that caps operator numbers and requires uniform best management practices.

“We’re asking the city to put in a permit system,” she said, arguing it would prevent “fly-by-night companies” from undermining responsible operators.

Brown, as of press time Dec. 1, had not responded to a Nov. 28 call.

an aerial image of Palma Sola Bay shows the north section highlighted in red and the south in green. islander

Photo: courtesy arbus

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.

Bradenton Beach Ward 4 seat up for grabs

By robert anderson islander reporter

Bradenton Beach commissioners will discuss how to fill the vacant Ward 4 commission seat Dec. 4.

The departure of Commissioner Jan Vosburgh, whose time on the dais ended Nov. 20, created the vacancy. According to city hall, Vosburgh first won election to the commission in 2010 and served three two-year terms before terming out in 2016. She returned to the dais in 2020 and served until last month.

Vosburgh did not fi le for reelection during the qualifying period that closed Aug. 29, leaving the seat without an elected successor.

Under the city charter, such vacancies are filled by appointment rather than a special election. At the Dec. 4 meeting at 6 p.m. at city hall, commissioners are expected to outline how they will solicit and consider applicants to serve the remainder of the new term,

which concludes in November 2026.

A qualified applicant must be a registered voter who has lived in the city for at least the past 12 months.

Also, applicants should be a resident of Ward 4. which is bound by the Gulf of Mexico to Sarasota Bay and south of Bridge Street to Longboat Pass. If commissioners, after two meetings, do not agree on an applicant or no one from the ward applies, the charter allows the city to widen the search to any Bradenton Beach voter.

In that case, the city clerk must advertise the opening citywide and notify voters before the commission appoints an at-large candidate.

Commissioners are paid $4,800.

The city’s registered voters dropped to 483 in October, according to the Manatee County Supervisor of Elections.

City designates ferry dockage at Bridge St. pier

By robert anderson islander reporter

Two of the Historic Bridge Street Pier’s floating dock slips will be reserved for Manatee County’s Gulf Islands Ferry service.

John Cosby, Bradenton Beach’s police chief and Public works director, told The Islander Nov. 25 that the ferries will use the two slips closest to the police department’s boat lift, creating a dedicated loading and staging area separate from the public areas.

The slips sit along the city’s 26-piece floating finger-pier system, which extends into Sarasota Bay from the south side of the pier behind the Anna Maria Oyster Bar, 200 Bridge St.

The move follows months of coordination between the city, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection and county tourism officials.

Cosby said the city has been updating its submerged-land lease with the DEP to allow the two slips for ferry traffic.

Under the city’s current lease, dock space is generally open on a first-come basis. A new designation will carve out two spots exclusively for the ferry once the DEP signs off on the language.

Cosby said the county requested a defined space because a new larger, express-style ferry with about 90 indoor seats is planned to enter the service. The new boat will be enclosed, climate-controlled and able to handle higher volumes during peak-season conditions.

The lease revisions, which Cosby said include four technical updates along with the ferry designation, are expected to be finalized and sent to city commissioners for acknowledgement this month.

As of Dec. 1, the Gulf Islands Ferry was operating between Bradenton’s Riverwalk Pier and the Historic Bridge Street Pier.

The county is eyeing an expansion, as well as a return next year to the Anna Maria City Pier, which

is closed due to damages from hurricanes Helene and Milton.

Elliott Falcione, executive director of the Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Center, informed the Sarasota/Manatee Metropolitan Planning Organization’s board in October that the service planned at least two additional stops — one at Coquina Beach in Bradenton Beach and another at a landing in Palmetto near the convention center.

At that meeting, Falcione also said the new, larger boat would be “in service hopefully before the end of the calendar year.”

Countdown to Christmas

As we go to press and distribute, Dec. 1-3, there are only 23-25 shopping days until the jolly fat guy lands on our rooftops and slides down the chimney to deliver on Christmas wishes.

It’s a tight schedule for parents and grandparents, guardians and loved ones to shop, knit, build, sew, prep, cook and prepare the scene for Dec. 25.

My mom used to organize Christmas while we slept, designating an area in the living room for each child’s gifts from Santa, while wrapped gifts hugged the base of the tree.

We awoke and awaited an escort to the room full of gifts and a designated person with a camera to catch the looks of surprise on our faces as we entered the room.

Since I was the oldest child, the scene got old for me, but the delight of my younger siblings on discovering Santa’s surprises was always a joy.

For me, the secrets under the tree hidden by the wrapping paper were the best because they held surprises from the people I missed the most at the holidays — my grandmother, grandfather, great-grandmother, two cousins and aunt and uncle, all in Virginia.

Those packages always held bright new pajamas, gloves, scarves, sometimes boots or a new sweater, and a surprise. One year it was a Cinderella watch.

I think I was in third-grade that year and I was delighted. But my joy quickly turned to tears when that watch disappeared from the school washroom where I removed it to wash my hands.

Well, I was told, someone needed it more than me.

So every year after, I tried my best to give to others — even if it’s only a dozen jars of peanut butter to ship to Haiti or donations of my kids’ and grandkids’ outgrown toys and clothes to the Roser Thrift Store.

Go shop small and shop local. Island merchants and the shops and restaurants all around us are hungry for a holiday boost as we head into tourist season.

They’re trying hard to succeed with wishes for recovery from a year of losses. This newspaper, too, is waiting for the economy to come back and thrive — and hoping Santa is kind to us all.

Twenty-three days to go.

We’re looking forward this week to sharing the memories of years gone by on Dec. 5 at the 75th anniversary celebration of the founding of the city of Holmes Beach.

See you at city field, islanders!

Let’s go get the T-shirt!

See you there, Cohb-sters!

— Bonner Joy

OpinionYour

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Looking back

10-20-30 years ago

From the Nov. 30, 1995,

issue

• A dolphin was beached on Anna Maria Island and died within about a half hour of its discovery. The rough-tooth dolphin typically is found in deep water and not Anna Maria Island waters, where the bottlenose dolphin is common.

DEC. 3, 2025 Vol. 34, No. 6

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

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Jack elka, jack@jackelka.com

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

▼ Contributors

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Postcards from paradise

a postcard dated 1925-30 in the manatee county Public Library collection depicts visitors and their automobiles in Bradenton Beach — originally known as cortez Beach and a popular tourist destination in the early 20th century. in the late 1920s, city officials began using “Bradenton Beach” to differentiate the location from the village of cortez. islander Photo: courtesy manatee county Public Library System

You can peruse The islander newspaper archive, dating back to its launch in november 1992, at ufdc.ufl.edu.

• Volunteers came together to refurbish the baseball stadium at the Anna Maria Island Community Center — now the Center of Anna Maria Island — with fresh paint, repaired stucco and rebuilt bleachers.

From the Nov. 30, 2005, issue

• Local authorities were investigating fi ve suspicious fires set in Bradenton Beach and Cortez on Thanksgiving. No injuries were reported and the fires, including one at the Bradenton Beach Post Offi ce, caused minor damages.

• Condominium sales were leveling off on AMI, but single-family home values were on the rise. The inventory of homes for sale also continued to rise, with active residential listings at 364 in October 2005 compared with 200 in October 2004.

• A surfer was in critical condition after being pulled from the Gulf near Coquina Beach by another surfer. The injured man was found unconscious.

From the Dec. 2, 2015, issue

• Bradenton Beach was working on a Bridge Street project that involved tearing up parts of the roadway for stormwater improvements and the addition of a faux-brick surface.

• An old plan for a new development, Peninsula Bay, resurfaced near Cortez, with a proposal to add 1,950 residential units, a 67-acre lake, a marina and 90,000 acres of retail and office space.

— Lisa neff

Former AM city treasurer’s final months marked by complaints

By ryan Paice islander reporter

The city of Anna Maria recently terminated city treasurer LeAnne Addy’s employment without cause.

But a history of complaints filed against Addy by her former coworkers might provide some insight into the decision.

In response to The Islander’s request for any workplace complaints/ grievances about Addy, the city provided multiple documents spanning back to 2021 alleging that she created a hostile workplace and treated some coworkers in a discriminatory manner.

Addy was appointed as city clerk in 2016 and was later named city treasurer as well. She served as both city clerk and treasurer for years under former Mayor Dan Murphy, but Mayor Mark Short hired a new city clerk in March.

Addy continued to serve as city treasurer until her termination on Nov. 17.

The most recent complaint regarding Addy was filed in late September by city planner Ashley Austin and administrative assistant Barbara Jeffries.

It is largely based on their allegations of Addy’s behavior toward finance assistant Jeff Charles, a person of color.

Jeffries wrote, “I have witnessed firsthand the mistreatment and inappropriate conduct of a supervisor, LeAnne Addy, towards my coworker, Jeff Charles. This individual has been subjected to constant control, public reprimands and unfair treatment. I can personally relate to the detrimental effects of this behavior, as I myself faced similar challenges under the same supervisor during my tenure in this position.”

According to Jeffries, Addy “undermined” Charles by making him “feel as though he is continuously making mistakes,” as well as not providing “the nec-

essary training or guidance to succeed.”

“This has created an unhealthy and unproductive work environment, which, unfortunately, mirrors the toxic situation I experienced under the same supervision,” she wrote. “The treatment Jeff is enduring is not only unprofessional, but it is also deeply harmful to employee morale and well-being.

“I sincerely believe that immediate action needs to be taken to ensure that all employees are treated with respect and given the resources and support they need to thrive,” Jeffries added.

Austin wrote in her complaint that Charles told her that “LeAnne frequently threatens him, telling him that he needs to perform better or his post-probationary raise is at risk, while at the same time withholding necessary training to support his development despite Jeff’s repeated attempts to receive additional training.”

“In other instances, where Jeff needed guidance or made a mistake, he did not receive constructive feedback or support to improve. Rather, he was ridiculed and belittled by LeAnne, at times made to feel as if he is criminal. Meanwhile, a white colleague in an unrelated, temporary and limited position openly receives the hands-on instruction and support that should be provided to Jeff, an employee of color,” Austin wrote.

She also complained that Addy subjected Charles to disproportionate levels of monitoring, such as documenting his work activity on an hourly basis — something Austin said had not been applied to any other employee.

“The hourly work documentation requirement coupled with a lack of training creates a sense that LeAnne is setting Jeff up for failure by intentionally seeking a way to prove that Jeff is not doing enough work for him to receive his post-probationary raise. Unequal monitoring furthermore creates a sense of inequity and distrust,” she wrote.

Additionally, Austin claimed that Addy instructed

Charles that “he was not allowed to speak with other employees, including employees in administration.”

“The restriction on communication echoes treatment many other employees have experienced at the hands of LeAnne which has made it difficult to build connections, collaborate and feel part of a team,” she wrote.

Austin concluded, “Collectively, these actions have created a work environment that feels discouraging and isolating. The discrepancies in treatment — especially along racial lines — are troubling and disheartening.”

Austin and Jeffries’ complaints line up with past allegations of misconduct against Addy.

In 2024, multiple former employees, including Tyffanny Rios and Candela Lemos, told The Islander that they found themselves on the receiving end of alleged racially motivated mistreatment from Addy.

Rios, a dark-skinned Latina, and Lemos, a Hispanic woman, claimed Addy undermined them by setting them up to fail by withholding training, as well as redistributing duties to effectively sideline them in favor of white employees.

However, Addy’s alleged mistreatment was not limited to her nonwhite coworkers.

Legislative liaison Amy Moriarty, a white woman, filed two formal complaints against Addy in June 2023.

In her complaint, Moriarty alleged that Addy had displayed “harassing and bullying behavior … for more than a year.”

That behavior included “a number of emails in which she has called into question both my competency and ability to perform my job function.”

You can peruse The islander newspaper archive, dating back to its launch in november 1992, at ufdc.ufl.edu.

compiled by Lisa neff, calendar@islander.org

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT ON AMI

Thursday, Dec. 4

10:30 a.m. — Tingley Memorial Library’s Florida Author Book Club, 111 Second St. N., Bradenton Beach. Info: 941-779-1208.

Wednesday, Dec. 10

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

6 p.m. — Blue Oyster Cult concert, Center of Anna Maria Island, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria. Fee applies. Info: 941-778-1908.

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.

OFF AMI

Sunday, Dec. 7

4 p.m. — Bay Chorale: Voices of Christmas concert, SCF Neel Performing Arts Center, 5840 26th St. W., Bradenton. Fee applies. Info: baychorale.com.

ONGOING OFF AMI

• Throughout December, Island Gallery and Studios, handmade holiday gifts. 456 Old Main, Bradenton. Info: 941-778-6648, islandgalleryandstudios.com.

• Through Jan. 11, “Yoshida Hiroshi: Journeys through Light,” The Ringling, 5401 Bay Shore Road, Sarasota. Fee applies except Mondays. Info: 941-359-5700, ringling.org.

• Through April 12, 2026, “Ancestral Edge: Abstraction and Symbolism,” The Ringling, 5401 Bay Shore Road, Sarasota. Fee applies except Mondays. Info: 941-359-5700, ringling.org.

• 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.

SAVE THE DATES

• Dec. 13, Dec. 15, Pops Orchestra of Bradenton and Sarasota A Christmas Carol Concert, Bradenton.

• Dec. 31, New Year’s Eve Celebration, Bradenton. KIDS & FAMILY ON AMI

Saturday, Dec. 6

10:30 a.m.-2 p.m. —Center of Anna Maria Island Lester Family Fun Day, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria. Info: centerami.org.

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

10 a.m. — Kids Holiday Party, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Info: 941-7786341, mymanatee.org.

5-8 p.m. — Christmas Tree Lighting and Holmes Beach Holiday Open House, AMI Chamber of Commerce and city center. Info: 941-778-1541.

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.

Friday, Dec. 5

6-9:30 p.m. — Holly Jolly Village Christmas, Village of the Arts, Bradenton. Info: 941-744-2424.

5-8 p.m. — Winter Wonderland, Old Main Street, Bradenton. Info: realizebradenton.com.

Saturday, Dec. 6

11 a.m.-4 p.m. — Holly Jolly Village Christmas, Village of the Arts, Bradenton. Info: 941-744-2424.

ONGOING OFF AMI

• Through Dec. 31, 5-9 p.m., Christmas in the Garden, Longboat Island Chapel, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key. Info: 941-383-6491.

SAVE THE DATES

• Dec. 12, Holiday Walk, Anna Maria.

• Dec. 13, Christmas in Cortez, Cortez.

• Dec. 13, Christmas Parade, AMI.

• Dec. 13, A Night Before Christmas, Bradenton.

• Dec. 16, Island Library’s Storytime at the Beach, Bradenton Beach.

• Dec. 18-21, Palma Sola Botanical Park’s Winter Nights Under the Lights, Bradenton.

• Dec. 19, Center Bingo Night Anna Maria. CLUBS & COMMUNITY ON AMI

Thursday, Dec. 4

1 p.m. — Sunshine Stitchers Knit and Crochet, Island Library,

Decking the gallery

The artists’ guild of anna maria island will present a special market night — a holiday-themed evening — 5-7 p.m. friday, Dec. 5, at its gallery, 5414 marina Drive, Holmes Beach. a notice said visitors would find holiday ornaments and other gifts “at surprisingly affordable prices.” for more information, call 941-778-6694. islander courtesy Photo

5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Info: 941-778-6341. Friday, Dec. 5

3 p.m. — Adult Coloring Club, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Info: 941-778-6341, mymanatee.org. 5-9 p.m. — Holmes Beach 75th anniversary party, city field, 5800 block of Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Info: 941-708-5800.

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

• Dec. 14, Roser Memorial Community Church Bethlehem Walk, Anna Maria.

• Dec. 16, Wildlife Inc. Reopening Open House, Bradenton Beach.

• Dec. 20, Anna Maria Island Privateers’ Christmas at the Drift-In AMI, Bradenton Beach.

MARKETS & COMMUNITY SALES ON AMI

Friday, Dec. 5

5-7:30 p.m. — Market Night celebration, Artists’ Guild Gallery, 5414 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Info: 941-778-6694.

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 sell out, 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.

• 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 Wednesdays, Fridays, Sundays, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.,

Tingley book club to meet

Tingley Memorial Library’s Florida Author Book Club will meet at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 4, to discuss “The Amalfi Curse” by St. Pete author Sarah Penner.

Club participation is free for library members. Membership is $10.

The library is at 111 Second St. N., Bradenton Beach.

To register, call 941-779-1208 or email the library director at bradentonbeachlibrary@gmail.com.

Blue Öyster Cult at center

The Blue Öyster Cult will perform at 8 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 10, at the Center of Anna Maria Island, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria.

Gates will open at 6 p.m., with opening act BB Steal 80’s Live taking the stage at 7 p.m.

The outdoor lawn concert, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria, requires general admission attendees to bring their own chairs. Tickets start at $75.

Tickets are available at www.centerami.org/concerts.

The center’s phone number is 941-778-1908.

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

• Jan. 9, 2026, Market Night in City Center, Holmes Beach.

• Feb. 13, Market Night in City Center, Holmes Beach. 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.

SAVE THE DATES

• Dec. 12, Game Night at the Robinson Preserve NEST, Bradenton.

• Dec. 22, Wonder Walk at Neal Preserve, Perico Island.

• Dec. 27, Starry Night Astronomy at Robinson Preserve, Bradenton.

• Dec. 29-31, Holiday Open House at Robinson Preserve NEST, Bradenton.

• Dec. 30, Perico Bayou Fishing Club, Perico Island. CALENDAR NOTES

KEEP THE DATES

• Dec. 14, first night of Hanukkah.

• Dec. 25, Christmas.

• Dec. 26, Boxing Day

• Dec. 26, first day of Kwanzaa.

• Dec. 31, New Year’s Eve.

• Jan. 1, New Year’s Day.

ANNOUNCEMENTS GET LISTED!

Send listings to calendar@islander.org.

Wish Book online

The Islander’s annual Wish Book is a giving guide that contains lists of needs and wishes for local nonprofits. Supporters can find the Wish Book online at islander. org.

Prepping for parade

Terry “The colonel” Kilpatrick, captain of the anna maria island Privateers’ Skullywag, thanks Bradenton Beach commissioners nov. 20 for waiving event fees for the 2025 christmas Parade. The procession will depart from the coquina South Boat ramp at 10 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 13, traveling through all three island cities before concluding at city Pier Park in anna maria. after the parade, the Privateers will host Santa at a party at city field in Holmes Beach. islander Photo: robert anderson

For more about holiday events, see page 11.

Gathering By Lisa Neff

LBK chapel opens gardens for holiday celebration

The Longboat Island Chapel transformed its gardens into a festive holiday showcase for the month of December, offering free entertainment as part of its “Christmas in the Garden 2025: A Celebration of Lights and Music.”

The gardens at 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive are open 5-9 p.m. through Dec. 31, featuring holiday lighting, music and decorated trees.

Special evening performances are at 6 p.m. Dec. 4, Dec. 9, Dec. 11, Dec. 15, Dec. 16, Dec. 19 and Dec. 22, with limited seating available.

The lineup includes performances by jazz artist Lido Beach, the Sarasota Academy of the Arts Chorus, country-western singer Robbie Albrandi, the Brian Gurl Trio and saxophone artist Boris de Serio, among others.

The celebration concludes with a New Year’s Eve event 4:30-6:30 p.m. on Dec. 31 at Fellowship Hall, featuring complimentary heavy appetizers and a performance by John Rinell, the Voice of Solid Gold.

Donations are appreciated.

Also, a Christmas Eve Communion and Candlelight Service will be at 5 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 24.

All events are free and open to the public.

For more information, call the chapel at 941-3836491.

Roser to host guest preacher

A familiar face at Roser Memorial Community Church will be a special guest at worship services Sunday, Dec. 7.

The Rev. Charles Wade will be guest preacher at 8:30 a.m. and 10 a.m. services at the church, 512 Pine Ave. Anna Maria. Wade, facilities administrator, has been on the staff since 2008.

Wade studied to become a Stephen Minister and, after taking a course through Trinity Multicultural Church in Sarasota, he was ordained in 2023. For more information, call 941-778-0414 or email info@roserchurch.com.

Neil P. Duck

Neil P. Duck, 66, of Bradenton, previously of Holmes Beach, died Nov. 9.

He was born July 1, 1959, in Exmouth, Devon, in the United Kingdom, to the late Margaret Anne (Lemon) and Peter Duck.

Double the celebration

Jean Knopp, left of center, will be celebrating her 100th birthday when the roser guild holds its annual christmas Tea and Birthday celebration, at 1 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 9, at roser memorial community church. a notice said, “all are welcome to join us for our annual christmas Tea to get into the holiday spirit!” for more information, go to roserchurch.com or call 941-778-0414. islander Photo: courtesy Peggy nash

Donald Douglas Schmitzerle

Donald Douglas Schmitzerle, 89, of Anna Maria Island and Bradenton, died Nov. 10.

He was born in Detroit but made his home here for the past 24 years.

Mr. Duck was a butcher/meat cutter for Winn Dixie and The Fresh Market, having received a distinguished award as a Top 10 meat-cutter in the United States.

On arriving in Florida in 2011, he and wife Patty called the Anna Maria City Pier their second home. They met their best friends there, Luis (Kris) Wisniewski and wife Sharon and their family and Barry and Julia Garland.

They shared holidays and hurricanes with them. Barry, Kris and Neil had their special seats at D.Coy Ducks after Hurricane Irma.

Though two are in Heaven, they will always be around those of us who are here loving and missing them on the island. The Duck family requested memorial donations to Tidewell Hospice in Bradenton.

Mr. Duck is survived by wife Patty; brother Adrian and wife Carolyn; sister Mandy and husband Howard Sims; sister Stephanie; son Jonathan and wife Sarah and daughter Catherine; stepchildren Christina and husband Alex Vaughan and Jimmy Robakowski; and grandchildren Henry, Archie, Jenson, Marley and Josie.

He enjoyed a career as a music company executive, contributing to several major record labels, including Warner Bros. Records in Los Angeles, Capricorn Records in Macon, Georgia, and Bearsvill Records in Bearsville, New York.

He worked with an array of artists, including Jimi Hendrix, BachmanTurner Overdrive, Emmylou Harris, 311, Fleetwood Mac, Bob Seger, Alice Cooper and many others whose music helped define generations.

He is deeply missed and lovingly remembered. A celebration of life well be held Jan. 3, 2026. He is survived by his devoted wife of 42 years, Sue Ann; sons David and wife Evon and Zachary and wife Jackie; and grandchildren Ian, Dylan, Cecilia, Sebastian and Julian.

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.

the eNewsletter • Sign up at RoserChurch.com/contact-us

during office hours for prayer and meditation

Anna Maria Island decking the palms for festive holidays

By Lisa neff islander editor

Anna Maria Island is fa-la-la-ing its way through December.

From Santa’s frequent arrivals to twinkling light displays, the island and surrounding communities are trimming the palms with festivities, including:

On AMI

• Lester Family Fun Day at the Center of Anna Maria Island, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria. The center hosts its annual celebration featuring old-fashioned family entertainment. Activities include pony rides, inflatables, crafts, cookie decorating and a performance by the Manatee High School Drum Line. DJ Freeze will spin music throughout the day and Santa arrives at noon to distribute small gifts. Food options include Duffy’s burgers, Anna Maria Oyster Bar hot dogs and Small Town Creamery ice cream. 10:30 a.m.-2 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 6. For more, call 941-778-1908 or go to centerami.org/events.

• Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce Tree Lighting and Holmes Beach Holiday Open House, city center, Holmes Beach. Plans include a tree-lighting ceremony at the chamber, carols, visits with the Anna Maria Island Privateers and their special guest, Santa, as well as open houses at local businesses. 5-8 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 6. For more, call 941778-1541 or go to annamariaislandchamber.org.

• Anna Maria Holiday Walk, Pine Avenue, Anna Maria. The community event features shopping, treats and visits with Santa at the Anna Maria Island Historical Society Museum, 402 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. 5-9 p.m., Friday, Dec. 12. For more info, go to cityofannamaria.com or call 941-708-6130.

• Anna Maria Island Privateers Christmas Parade, islandwide. The parade rolls from Coquina Beach north on Gulf Drive to Holmes Beach and into Anna Maria. It’s followed by a party with Santa and lunch for kids at city field. 10 a.m., Saturday, Dec. 13. For more, go to amiprivateers.org.

• Roser Memorial Community Church Bethlehem Walk, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. The island church celebrates the reason for the season with a holiday tradition. 5 p.m., Sunday, Dec. 14. For more information, call 941-778-0414 or go to roserchurch. com.

• Christmas at the Drift-In AMI, 120 Bridge St., Bradenton Beach. The Anna Maria Island Privateers and the Drift-In will celebrate the season with sales, raffles, music and a holiday buffet. 6-9 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 20. For more, call 941-778-8565.

Off AMI

• Christmas in the Garden , Longboat Island Chapel, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key. The event is a celebration of lights, music and community. 5-9 p.m., through Dec. 31. For more, go to longboatislandchapel.org.

• Holly Jolly Village Christmas, Village of the Arts, Bradenton. The holiday walk will feature musical performances, open houses, refreshments and good cheer. 6-9:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 5, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6. For more, call 941-744-2424 or email thevillagemystic@gmail.com.

• Winter Wonderland, Old Main Street, Bradenton. The evening includes visits with Mr. and Mrs. Claus, rides on a snow slide, musical performances, carnival games and food and beverages. 5-8 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 6. For more, go to realizebradenton.com.

• Bay Chorale: The Voices of Christmas, SCF Neel Performing Arts Center, 5820 26th St. W., Bradenton. Bay Chorale presents its holiday concert with

proceeds supporting music scholarships. Tickets cost $15. 4 p.m., Sunday, Dec. 7. For more info, go to baychorale.com/next-concert or call 941-727-7259.

• Christmas in Cortez, 4415 119th St. W., Cortez. The Florida Maritime Museum event features entertainment, vendors, games and crafts. Noon-3 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 13. For more, go to floridamaritimemuseum.org.

• A Night Before Christmas, G.T. Bray Park, 5502 33rd Ave. Drive W., Bradenton. The event includes photos with Mr. and Mrs. Claus, a snow slide, foam zone, inflatables, face-painting, letters to Santa and a petting zoo. A Shop Local vendor marketplace will operate in the parking lot alongside food and dessert trucks. 4-8 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 13. For more info, go to mymanatee.org/night or call 941-742-5923.

• A Christmas Carol, the Concert with the Pops

Orchestra of Bradenton and Sarasota, Manatee High School Davis Performing Arts Center, 902 33rd Court W., Bradenton. The production features a 65-piece orchestra, full chorus, actors, vocalists and dancers performing the story of Ebenezer Scrooge’s transformation. Tickets start at $35. 3 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 13. For more info, go to thepopsorchestra.org.

• Palma Sola Botanical Park’s Winter Nights Under the Lights, 9800 17th Ave. NW, Bradenton. The park transforms into a wonderland with acres of light displays, visits with Santa, music and a market. 6-9 p.m., Thursday-Sunday, Dec. 18-21. For more info, call 941-761-2866 or go to palmasolabp.org.

• Holiday Open House, Robinson Preserve NEST, 840 99th St. NW, Bradenton. The preserve hosts crafts and activities for all ages. 9 a.m. Monday-Wednesday, Dec. 29-30. For more, call 941-748-4501.

Center goes deep in hole as holidays approach

By ryan Paice islander reporter

Santa’s coming to town!

The Center of Anna Maria Island will host the 24th annual Lester Family Fun Day at its facility, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria, 10:30 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6.

The event has been sponsored by Chuck and Joey Lester for years. Chuck Lester died in April 2024, but Joey has carried on the tradition.

The event will feature an array of festive activities, highlighted by Santa Claus arriving at noon with the Manatee High School drum line. Children in attendance will be able to meet Santa and receive small gifts.

Another highlight is the golf ball drop at 2 p.m., when a helicopter will hover over a flag on the soccer field and drop numbered golf balls, sold for $50 each to sponsors. The closest ball to the flag wins the raffle.

Balls cost $50 for one or $100 for three, and can be purchased on the center’s website, centerami.org, or by calling 941-778-1908.

DJ Freeze will spin tunes for the event, which will also feature pony rides, inflatable play structures, crafts and cookie decorating for kids.

Hamburgers, hot dogs and ice cream from Duffy’s Tavern, Anna Maria Oyster Bar and the Small Town Creamery, respectively, will be available for purchase.

Admission is free, but activity tickets will cost 25 cents apiece.

The event will benefit the center, which may need some financial assistance after dropping $322,352 into the red after the first quarter of fiscal 2025-26, which

began July 1.

While program revenue has gone strong through September, resulting in $70,298 in income, fundraising has lagged at $21,522.

Neither number makes much of a dent in the $218,441 the center has racked up in general/indirect/ administrative expenses.

So far, the nonprofit has recorded a $126,621 loss in net ordinary income through September.

However, that’s not where the deficit stops.

More than half of the current deficit can be attributed to $195,731 in capital expenses, including field maintenance, new sod, fence and roof repairs, as well as a new scoreboard for the outdoor field.

While the center went $186,685 into the red through September of fiscal 2024-25 and finished in the black, this year’s hole is nearly two times deeper.

Mid-day at the market outside roser church nov. 11, Jay Horak of circle 6 farm & ranch sells skincare products at the anna maria community farmers market, which is held 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Tuesdays through season at 512 Pine ave., anna maria. islander Photo: robert anderson

Bradenton man serving probation for reckless driving

Victor Perez, 39, of Bradenton, will be on probation through May 2026 for reckless driving with alcohol, a second-degree misdemeanor.

Perez was arrested Sept. 24, 2024, for a seconddegree misdemeanor charge for DUI, but signed a deal with the state attorney’s office to participate in a driver enhanced treatment education rehabilitation program.

The deal specified that, upon completion of the program, he could plead no contest to reckless driving with alcohol, for which adjudication would be withheld.

According to the deal, that sentence would include serving 12 months of probation, paying a $500 fine, completing DUI school and a victim impact panel, as well as 50 hours of public service.

By a May 21 court hearing, Perez had completed the DETER program and pleaded no contest to reckless driving with alcohol.

Judge Melissa Gould of the 12th Circuit Court sentenced Perez to 12 months of probation.

— ryan Paice

Streetlife

Island police reports

Anna Maria

No new reports.

Bradenton Beach

No new reports.

Cortez No new reports.

Holmes Beach

Nov. 20, 300 block of 59th Street, out-of-county warrant. An officer saw a man run into a property and investigated. The man told police he had gotten into a physical altercation with his boss over pay and he wanted to press charges. While confirming the man’s identity, police found a warrant for his arrest out of Hillsborough County. The man was arrested and taken to the Manatee County jail.

Nov. 22, The Feast, 5406 Marina Drive, Marchman Act. An officer responded to reports of an intoxicated man causing a disturbance. The complainant said the man left the restaurant on foot and the officer found him stumbling “in and out of the roadway.” Meanwhile, the restaurant manager told police the man had caused a disturbance by yelling racial slurs at guests

Man arrested for disorderly conduct, resisting police

By ryan Paice islander reporter

Holmes Beach police arrested Luis Moreno Castillo, 19, of Bradenton, Nov. 23 on third-degree felony charges of resisting a law enforcement officer with violence and three counts of battery on an officer.

He also was charged with two second-degree misdemeanors for loitering/prowling for an unlawful purpose and breach of peace.

Multiple officers responded around 2:50 a.m. to reports of a suspicious man in the 200 block of 58th Street.

An officer observed a man matching the description of the suspect, Castillo, who he had stopped earlier that night for riding a bicycle without lights.

The man told the officer that he had gone to the beach and lost his backpack and bike, which he later said was not his.

The officer offered Castillo a ride home, but he refused, became agitated and attempted to leave.

Backup officers arrived to detain Castillo to further investigate potential disorderly conduct.

He did not comply and resisted detainment, beginning a struggle in which he pushed an officer before he was brought to the ground and handcuffed.

A witness said the man “walked toward her while making incoherent statements” and another said he was “wandering in the roadway, speaking nonsensically.”

Castillo was arrested and transported to the Manatee County jail, where he remained in custody as of Nov. 28 with $10,300 bond.

If convicted, punishments for a third-degree felony charge include up to five years in prison, five years of probation and a fine of up to $5,000.

Punishment for a second-degree misdemeanor charge include up to 60 days in jail, six months of probation and a fine of up to $500.

An arraignment will be Jan. 9, 2026, at the Manatee County Judicial Center in Bradenton.

and repeatedly calling him a homophobic slur. The manager wanted the man trespassed. Because the man displayed signs of extreme intoxication, he was placed in protective custody and transported to HCA Florida Blake Hospital in Bradenton.

Streetlife is based on incident reports and narratives from the BBPD, HBPD and MCSO.

— robert anderson and ryan Paice

HBPD arrests man for burglary

By ryan Paice islander reporter

Holmes Beach police arrested Devon Guidry, 29, of Bradenton, Nov. 23 on a second-degree felony charge for alleged burglary of an unoccupied structure.

Guidry also was charged with a first-degree misdemeanor for trespassing and a second-degree misdemeanor for loitering.

The charges stem from a pair of incidents Nov. 22 and Nov. 23.

On Nov. 22, an officer responded to reports of a man running through residential backyards between 30th and 31st streets and was flagged down by an Island Vacations Rentals employee who was inspecting a rental unit that was believed to be vacant when a man, later identified as Guidry, was found inside. He appeared to have slept the night prior in the property without permission.

Another officer located and detained Guidry on the beach. HBPD then contacted the rental company owner, who wanted Guidry trespassed and released, so that was done.

On Nov. 23, an officer responded to reports of a man in the 3000 block of Avenue F who appeared to be screaming at himself.

The officer found and detained Guidry near the pool behind the Island Beach Club.

The complainant, a condominium owner and board member, said Guidry was found on the property without permission to be there and he wanted to file charges.

The rental company owner from the night before was contacted and agreed to file charges and complete a statement.

Guidry was arrested and transported to the Manatee County jail, where he remained as of Nov. 28 with a $650 bond.

If convicted, punishments for a second-degree felony charge include up to 15 years in prison, 15 years of probation and a fine of up to $10,000.

First-degree misdemeanors carry up to one year in jail, one year of probation and a fine of $1,000.

Punishments for a second-degree misdemeanor include up to 60 days in jail, six probation and a fine of up to $500.

An arraignment will be Jan. 9, 2026, at the Manatee County Judicial Center in Bradenton.

Tiki & Kitty’s

Tiki and Kitty are leading the way to the holidays at their favorite shops and boutiques. Let’s go “idea shopping” and take in all the festive decor.

Miss us? WE MISS YOU AMI!

Stop by at our other locations:

Scavengers Marketplace SRQ

1175 N Washington Blvd

Scavengers Palmetto

2100 US Hwy 301

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

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

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

Your place for fun, funky quirky!

Local Artisans. Upcycled, Vintage Furniture, Decor, Artwork

Dixie Belle Paint, Fun Gifts & More!

Featuring “The Sea Hagg” collection. theblueflamingo.biz

We promise, you will find treasures aplenty at this fun shop. See you there!

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

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

By Lisa Neff

2025 storm season ends

Whew, the Atlantic hurricane season concluded Nov. 30 with no storms threatening our coast.

Instead of storm preparations through the 2025 season, many locals continued storm recovery efforts from the 2024 season, which brought devastation last fall with Hurricane Helene’s surge and Hurricane Milton’s winds.

I went through the 2025 season feeling jittery, and I wasn’t alone. Proof? Anytime I mentioned our lack of storms, I’d get shushed.

But Nov. 30 has come and gone, and so now we can assess the season without jinxing ourselves. Knock wood.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration called the season a study in contrasts — calm stretches broken by bursts of activity that spawned powerful storms.

The Atlantic basin produced 13 named storms, including five hurricanes. There were four major hurricanes, falling within NOAA’s predictions.

An average season generates 14 named storms, including seven hurricanes, three of which are major hurricanes.

For the first time in a decade, no hurricane made landfall in the United Sates. “That was a much-needed break,” said Neil Jacobs, NOAA administrator, in a late-November assessment from the federal government.

Still, for the United States, Tropical Storm Chantal brought flooding to North Carolina and distant hurricanes stirred up surf that damaged East Coast properties.

Short-term weather patterns mostly steered systems away from the United States, according to Ken Graham, National Weather Service director.

Caribbean nations, however, took direct hits.

The season produced three Category 5 hurricanes — the second-most on record for a single year.

Hurricane Erin was the first Category 5 storm of

2025 and brought storm surge and tropical storm conditions to the North Carolina Outer Banks and rough surf and rip currents along the East Coast.

Erin underwent rapid intensification and is tied for the fifth-fastest 24-hour increase in maximum sustained winds on record, from 75 mph to 160 mph.

Erin also tied for the third-fastest 24-hour pressure drop in the Atlantic basin on record, dropping 83 millibars from 998 mb to 915 mb.

Hurricane Humberto became the second Category 5 hurricane, and soon after, Hurricane Imelda developed and became the final storm of September.

Hurricane Melissa developed into the third Category 5 of the season and became one of the strongest Atlantic basin hurricane landfalls on record when it hit southwestern Jamaica Oct. 28, bringing extensive damage to Jamaica, Hispaniola and eastern Cuba.

Melissa was the fourth storm to undergo rapid intensification in 2025, with a 115-mph wind increase and a 90 millibar decrease in central pressure in a 72-hour period.

imelda and Humberto churn over the atlantic. The atlantic basin produced 13 named storms, including five hurricanes. There were four major hurricanes, falling within noaa’s predictions. islander image: courtesy noaa

Four days before Melissa’s landfall in Jamaica, the NHC projected a path over western Jamaica that ended up with a track difference of only 13 miles.

“NHC’s intensity forecasts for Melissa outperformed every model at nearly every lead time and provided almost three days of advance notice that Melissa would make landfall in Jamaica as a powerful Category 5 hurricane,” Michael Brennan, director of National Hurricane Center, said in NOAA’s assessment. This was the first time the NHC forecasted a hurricane to reach Category 5 intensity from such a low initial intensity.

The season also was the fi rst in which the hurricane center incorporated artificial intelligence into forecasting and, according to NOAA, it paid off with excellent predictions of rapid intensification.

Hurricane season runs June 1-Nov. 30, and the 2025 season got going June 23 with the formation of Tropical Storm Andrea.

Melissa was the last named storm of the 2025 season.

The 2025 atlantic hurricane season saw 13 named storms. an average season has 14 named storms. islander image: courtesy noaa

Key Royale golfers, horseshoe pitchers lead holiday sports

By Kevin P. cassidy

Islander Reporter

It was a short week of organized golf at the Key Royale Club in Holmes Beach over Thanksgiving week.

The action kicked off with the men’s weekly modified-Stableford system match Nov. 24. Nelson Eagle fired a plus-3 to edge Brian Comer and Ron Vandeman for first place by a point. Doug Kristensen was alone in third place at plus-2.

The women played a nine-hole, individual-low-net match in two flights Nov. 25. Brenda Solleveld carded a 1-under-par 31 to take first place in Flight A. Leigh Bratain was alone in second place with a 3-over-par 35. Flight B action saw Jana Samuels and Mary Wilkie tie for first on 1-under-par 31s, while Sharon Tarras took second with a 3-over-par 35.

Horseshoe action

Two teams emerged from pool play and settled things in a playoff during Nov. 26 horseshoe action at the Anna Maria City Hall pits.

In the championship match, Tim Sofran and Bob Lee cruised to a 23-14 victory over Bob Hawks to earn bragging rights for the day.

Hawks was back in the finals during the Nov. 29 games, this time teamed up with Neil Hennessey. The duo jumped out to an early lead and held on for a 22-9 victory over Gary Howcroft and Bob Palmer.

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

It’s free to play and everyone is welcome.

Center sports on the horizon

The Center of Anna Maria Island’s youth flag

football league is accepting registrations for its winter schedule, which gets started Jan. 12, 2026.

Cost for the season is $150 for nonmembers and $20 for members.

The last day to register is Friday, Dec. 5, for the girl’s division and Dec. 12 for the coed teams.

Player evaluations and the girl’s draft get started Dec. 8 at 5:30 p.m. and Dec. 15 for coeds in the 8-10s at 5:30 p.m. and 7 p.m. for the coed 14-17 division.

The 11-13 division evaluations and draft will be at 6 p.m. Dec. 16.

Games for the youth leagues will be either Monday or Tuesday evenings.

Calling all cheerleaders

With the season of flag football kicking off Jan. 12, that signals the start of cheerleading. Cost is $20 for members and $100 for nonmembers and the last

day to register is Dec. 19.

bragging rights at

Practice dates and times are to be determined with cheer season starting Jan. 12.

Adult flag football

Registration also is open for the adult flag football league at the community center. Cost is $20 for members and $120 for nonmembers. The deadline to register is Dec. 17 and the draft will be Dec. 18.

The season kicks off Jan. 8 with games played Thursday nights.

35+ coed soccer

Registration is open for the center’s 35-plus coed soccer league. Cost is $20 for members and $100 for nonmembers with registration closing Dec. 16. The team draft will be Dec. 17 and games will be played

The Lot: A community block party grows

For 35 years, Vera Moliere lived contently at 618 N. Bay Blvd., Anna Maria. She was a legend of the north end.

As I lived across the street, I often had the opportunity to chat with her when I saw her outside.

When she moved to live with a son in Tennessee, the property was sold to her neighbors across the street, myself and Ray Wien.

Later, the city agreed that the house had to be taken down due to its condition. After a few months, the house and all its landscaping was removed. Now it was an empty lot.

I spoke with another neighbor, Debbie Finch, about ideas for the lot.

Together we brainstormed, with the idea of providing a space for the community to gather.

Then came the hurricanes!

Debbie’s house was damaged and her brother offered her his camper-trailer while she brought her home back to lovely.

She asked Ray if she could set the camper on the lot and, with his permission and the city’s, she set up shop. She even put a sign out with her name and address. She set out tables and chairs and made it a great place to hang out, with a grill and all.

As an extension of having a few friends over, it was planned to have a potluck dinner. The community turned out and Debbie and I got a kick out of how our original idea was unfolding.

The potlucks grew.

Everyone knew where the lot was and when the next event was going to take place. But the big one came when the Stockton Brothers agreed to perform.

They used to perform on the Anna Maria City Pier. But, post-2024 storms, there was no pier.

So they agreed to play for the community. The event was called Woodstockton. We got permission from the city to hold it. The band got paid with contri-

SPORTS FROM PAGe 16

Wednesday nights starting Jan. 14.

Adult indoor soccer

The center is holding registration for its adult indoor soccer league. Cost is $20 for members and $100 for nonmembers and the deadline to register is Dec. 19. Player evaluations and a draft will be held Dec. 22 at 6 p.m.

The indoor soccer season will kick off Jan. 15. Participants can register at the center at 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria, or online at centerami.org. For more information and for coaching, volunteering or sponsorship inquiries, contact sports@centerami.org or call 941-778-1908, ext. 210.

butions from the crowd. Joe Fuse, a neighbor, tended the grill.

Ray and I returned to Pennsylvania after a winter well spent. I heard there were more gatherings while we were up north.

And, much to my surprise, when we returned this month, I read a notice and found community gatherings were being provided by the city of Anna Maria at City Pier Park. Well, hasn’t this come a long way!

Thanks to the city for allowing this event and participating. The commissioners must have realized that once the pier was gone, it was important to have a place for the community to gather. And they knew the history of Ray’s Lot and how it all started.

Thanks to the neighbors for their hard work and organizational skills. Thanks to the beautiful people of Anna Maria for making life here even more fun.

Trudy Weller, Anna Maria

AM magistrate upholds citation, fines food truck

By Ryan Paice Islander Reporter

One food truck’s attempt to capitalize in Anna Maria ended up costing it money.

Special magistrate Gerald Buhr, an attorney out of Lakewood Ranch, ruled Nov. 18 to uphold a $250 citation and assess a $100 administrative fee against Imelda Luna, owner of the Bradenton-based Lonchera Lunita food truck, for operating the truck in the city without permission.

A pair of code enforcement officers, Stephen Cooke and Tom Collins, found Luna operating the truck Sept. 11 in the parking lot of Bayfront Park, 316 N. Bay Blvd., without a permit.

Food trucks can operate within city limits if they are approved through a special event permit or if a private property owner in the city’s C-1 commercial zoning district allows them to operate on their property.

Bayfront Park is located within the city’s public recreation area, where food truck operations are not allowed.

The code enforcement officers issued Luna a $250 citation and had her shut down operations.

Luna attended the magistrate hearing and did not object to any evidence presented by the city.

She said she did not want to contest the fine and would accept it.

Buhr found Luna in violation of city code and approved the city’s requested fine and administrative

The Islander newspaper is FREE at Publix Holmes Beach. Just stop by the customer service desk, hold out your hand and say, “Islander, please!” And maybe remind staff you’d like the serve-yourself community news returned to the lobby.

fee against her.

The city’s next magistrate hearing will be at 9 a.m. Tuesday, Dec. 16, at city hall, 10005 Gulf Drive. Directions to attend via Zoom can be found on the city’s website, cityofannamaria.com.

Post-holiday chill brings hot fishing action for AMI anglers

By capt. Danny Stasny Islander Reporter

After the tryptophan and other holiday indulgences wore off, Anna Maria Island anglers found themselves emerging from a tranquil dream state with the urge to get on the water once again.

After a moderate cold front with some exaggerated gusty winds, many anglers were anxious to get out and see if the drop in water temps moved the fish or if they were holding fast in their typical areas.

When the seas are calm, a trip out in the Gulf to fish structure — reef, wrecks and hard bottom — is a good bet because the fi sh in deeper water seem to be less affected by the cold than those in the shallows.

Live shrimp on a bottom rig can lead to plenty of action on species such as mangrove snapper, lane snapper, hogfish, porgies and grunts.

Another plus, flounder inhabit these areas, too, and their season reopened Dec. 1. Flounder need to be 14 inches in total length and there is a bag limit of five per person per day.

As far as fishing inshore goes, patience may be a virtue — at least until water clarity and temperature regain some normalcy. Fishing canals, back bays and creek mouths can be productive because these areas tend to be slightly warmer than shallow flats in open water.

Again, soaking shrimp as bait is a good bet, although when water temperatures improve, live shiners should prove worthy for some afternoon catch-and-

County to host Lasting Manatee meeting in Cortez

Manatee County officials will hold a community meeting at 6 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 10, in Cortez to discuss post-hurricane recovery assistance for residents affected by last year’s storms.

The meeting will cover application processes for home repairs, replacements and buyouts, as well as infrastructure repair and mitigation projects.

An open question-and-answer session with county staff will follow a presentation at the Old Cortez Fire Station, 4523 123rd St. Court W. County officials aim to inform residents about $252 million in available federal grant funds designated to restore housing and infrastructure throughout the area.

For more information, contact the county at 941-742-4787 or info@lastingmanatee.org.

action while fishing nearshore in depths of 30-50 feet of water. Live shrimp combined with a knocker rig is leading to a variety of species, including mangrove and lane snapper, hogfish, porgies, scamp and Key West grunts. Numerous juvenile groupers of 15-20 inches are apparent in these depths, adding more variety to the bite.

Moving in closer to shore, in depths of 20 feet, Spanish mackerel are taking offerings of live shiners as bait. Jack crevalle, blue runners and ladyfish are mixed in, yielding some great sessions on medium spinning gear.

On the flats, redfish and catch-and-release snook are cooperating on warmer days when using live shiners as bait. On cooler days, casting shrimp around docks is producing some reds, as well as sheepshead, black drum and mangrove snapper.

Capt. David White says he’s finding plenty of action in the backcountry on reds and catch-and-release snook. Live shiners as bait are working on the warmer days and live shrimp on the cooler days are a good substitute.

release snook sessions.

Keep in mind, the harvest of snook closed Dec. 1 and reopens March 1, 2026, giving the fish a break while they try to maintain during cooler months.

Redfish and trout are available as their season is open year-round, making them targetable during the winter — if you know where to look.

Inshore fishing can produce action on species like pompano, sheepshead and black drum, which add variety on a cold day.

So, as we cycle through another Florida winter, there is plenty of good fishing to be had, as well as some mild temperatures and opportunities to target wintertime species.

On my Just Reel charters, I’m finding consistent

Spotted seatrout also are cooperating for White’s clients. He’s finding fish for his anglers on the deeper flats where depths reach 4-8 feet.

Moving into the Gulf, White is impressed with the number of Spanish mackerel and kingfish his clients are catching. And, with the commotion caused by the macks and kings, you can bet plenty of sharks are getting in on the action. White is hooking into that bite, too, with blacktip sharks in the 4- to 6-feet range the most common.

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

... The Islander newspaper is FREE at Publix Holmes Beach. Just stop by the customer service desk, hold out your hand and say, “Islander, please!” And maybe remind staff you’d like the serve-yourself community news returned to the lobby.

Dolphin research program advances listening program

A listening device stationed at Anna Maria Elementary School is part of a cutting-edge network that can automatically identify individual dolphins in Sarasota Bay by recognizing their unique signature whistles.

The Sarasota Bay Listening Network achieved a milestone in 2025 when researchers began testing an upgraded system that detects and identifies dolphins and manatees in the water in real time, according to an annual report from the Sarasota Dolphin Research Program.

The breakthrough, according to the SDRP in late November, promises to revolutionize how scientists track marine mammals and respond to animals in distress.

The network consists of more than a dozen shorebased listening stations positioned around Sarasota Bay, including the AMI area and the one at AME in

Holmes Beach.

The Passive Acoustic Listening Stations, or PALS, use underwater microphones connected to shore-based dataloggers that continuously monitor the bay’s soundscape.

The newly upgraded PALS2 system, developed by Loggerhead Instruments in collaboration with scientists from Brookfield Zoo Chicago’s SDRP, employs artificial intelligence to recognize patterns in sound recordings. The technology uses deep-learning algorithms trained on thousands of examples to automatically detect dolphin whistles and manatee calls.

Dolphins use signature whistles to broadcast their identity to other dolphins, functioning similarly to human names. The Sarasota Dolphin Whistle Database contains the world’s most comprehensive catalog of the distinctive calls for any bottlenose dolphin popula-

Bradenton Beach beautification group plans Arbor Day

By Robert Anderson Islander Reporter

Bradenton Beach’s ScenicWAVES committee is moving ahead with renewing its Tree City USA designation and mapping out next year’s Arbor Day projects.

ScenicWAVES, an advisory committee on the Gulf Drive scenic highway corridor in the city, promotes beautification and awareness and, during a November meeting, it focused on trees.

National Arbor Day 2026 is Friday, April 24, and committee members are considering replacing trees lost in the 2024 storm season at Katie Pierola Park, 2212 Gulf Drive N. Four palms were washed away.

“Instead of putting them down where we lost them again, we were thinking of planting upland near the trail entrances,” ScenicWAVES chair Ingrid McClellan said, noting the work might require coordination with the Florida Department of Environmental Protection.

“Anything in the dune line will need permission from DEP. They’ll approve it as long as we’re not affecting other vegetation,” added McClellan.

For National Arbor Day 2027, the committee reaffirmed its plan to undertake a palm-planting project at the Bridge Street roundabout, using anticipated forestry grant funding.

The project will be coordinated with the Florida Department of Transportation to avoid conflicts with long-range roadwork plans.

Donna Lupus Nov. 19 is sworn in as a voting member of the ScenicWAVeS. Islander Photos: Robert Anderson

tion.

When PALS2 detects a dolphin whistle, it automatically transmits the recording to the cloud, where a second algorithm — developed by researchers from Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution and the University of Aarhus in Denmark — compares it against the database to identify which individual dolphin is present.

The automated system replaces manual identification of calls from recordings.

The stations have collectively recorded more than 356,000 hours of underwater sounds since 2017.

Looking to 2026, researchers are preparing to launch a public-facing website that will allow people to listen online to dolphins, manatees and the Sarasota Bay soundscape in real time.

— Lisa Neff

Committee members reached consensus to revisit and consider other possible Arbor Day planting sites, species selection and grant updates during the next ScenicWAVES committee meeting, 1 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 21, at city hall, 107 Gulf Drive N.

In other matters

Also during the Nov. 19 meeting, the committee reviewed its completed Tree City USA recertifi cation application, an annual submission verified by the Florida Forest Service. The city has been a participant

in the program since 2011.

Tree City USA is a national program that recognizes communities committed to caring for their urban tree canopy. To qualify, cities must have a tree board or department, a tree-management ordinance, spend at least $2 per capita on tree care and officially observe Arbor Day.

With commission approval secured Nov. 20 and the mayor’s signature in place, the application was to be sent to state urban and community forestry program coordinator Todd Little in Tallahassee for review.

And the winners are …

The Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce hosted its 2026 awards ceremony and dinner Nov. 20 at the Key Royale Club in Holmes Beach. Award winners include:

• Morgan Bryant of Anna Maria’s Cool Beans AMI, 2026 Small Business of the Year Award;

• HSH Collective, 2026 Medium Business of the Year;

• Freckled Fin Irish Pub, 2026 Large Business of the Year Award;

• Joann Baker of the United Community Bank/ Sertoma Club, Ambassador of the Year;

• Palma Sola Botanical Park Foundation, 2026 Nonprofit of the Year Award;

• Katy Demick, general manager of Anna Maria Island Resorts, Rotary Club of AMI’s 2026 Business Person of the Year.

DEVINE DESIGN

LANDSCAPE & LAWN MAINTENANCE INC. FREE ESTIMATES

RIGHT: Morgan Bryant of Anna Maria’s cool Beans AMI, which is the 2026 Small Business of the Year.

Beverly Burdette and Jenny Gunter accept the 2026 Nonprofit of the Year Award for the Palma Sola Botanical Park Foundation.

State tallies tourism profits

The state’s tourism agency, Visit Florida, described 2024 as a record-breaking year for the tourism industry, despite a devastating hurricane season.

Data released Nov. 25 for 2024 showed that travel and tourism generated $133.6 billion in economic impact.

Out-of-state visitors spent $134.9 billion last year, a 3.0% increase over 2023. Domestic visitors accounted for $120.1 billion of the total and international visitors contributed $14.8 billion.

The industry supported 1.8 million jobs in 2024 and generated $79.9 billion in wages. Tourism-related activity produced $33.6 billion in federal state, and local taxes.

Lunch al fresco!

Katy Demick, front left, sits across from chamber president Terri Kinder with a bevy of others at a networking lunch at the Porch Restaurant in Anna Maria. The next luncheon will be at 11:30 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 11, at the Toasted Mango cafe in the Anna Maria Island centre shopping plaza, 3240 e. Bay Drive, Holmes Beach. Islander Photo: courtesy AMIcofc

We meet all your linen and cleaning needs with 5-star service. 18-plus years serving AMI. Our fleet will pick up/drop off daily.

www.allin1home.com

Some other numbers in a report prepared by Rockport Analytics:

• Tourism in 2024 broke records at 143 million visitors.

• The industry accounted for 7.8% of Florida’s Nominal Gross State Product.

• For every $1 spent by a visitor, 99 cents stayed in Florida’s economy, with 59 cents supporting worker salaries.

• Taxes generated by travel and tourism grew 3.3%, reaching $33.6 billion in 2024.

— Lisa Neff

Thursday, Dec. 4

8 a.m. — Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce breakfast meeting, Wicked Cantina, 101 Seventh St. N., Bradenton Beach. Fee applies. Info: 941-778-1541, amichamber.org.

Saturday, Dec. 6

6 p.m. — Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce Christmas Tree Lighting and Holmes Beach Holiday Open House, Holmes Beach. Info: 941-778-1541, amichamber.org. SAVE THE DATES

• Dec. 11, 11:30 a.m., AMI Chamber luncheon meeting, Toasted Mango, Holmes Beach.

• Dec. 12, 5-9 p.m., Anna Maria Holiday Walk. Send listings to calendar@islander.org.

ITEMS FOR SALE

FOR SALe: DReAM Weaver Triumph luxury vinyl flooring. 78 sf (4 unopened cartons), 10 pieces/box 6-inches wide x 8-feet long, $200. 614-209-5399.

FR ee : L e NOVO 24-inch ThinkVision monitor, docking station and cables. All in good condition. 941-806-8237.

Ice cReAM MAK eR, cuisinart, $50, grill, nonstick tabletop, $90, Tigerxbang oar/paddle, $45. All like-new. 941-920-2494.

LUGGAG e : SAMSONIT e GARM e NT bag on wheels, red or black, $40, carry-on bags, $15. 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

BRIDGe GAMe AT the community center on Fridays starting Dec. 5 at 1 p.m. 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria.

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

TRANSPORTATION

GOLF c ART R e NTALS: Fun for residents and tourists! 941-213-5730. www.annamariacartrentals.com

I SLAND e R AR c HIV e. UofF Florida digital newspaper collection at ufdc.ufl.edu.

GARAGE SALES

GARAG e SAL e : 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Dec. 5-6. Antique furniture, collectables, furniture, household items lots of items. 5112 18th Ave. Drive W., Bradenton

SARABAY/PARADISe BAY: 7:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6. craft show, luncheon, bake sale, raffle. Sarabay Rec Hall, 10315 cortez Road W, Bradenton.

BOATS & BOATING

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

SUN c OAST BOTTOM PAINTING: Professional bottom painting. Mobile. call 941-704-9382.

cAPTAIN FOR HIRe and boat caretaker services: If you need help with your boat on or off the water, call captain Dan. UScG, retired. 772-486-8085.

WeLcOMe ABOARD JOYFISH charters for private fishing, sunset cruises, and dolphin watching. check out joyfishcharters.com or follow us on Facebook. call to reserve, 941840-3181.

3.5HP 4-STROKe Mercury outboard compression 120 psi. 2,000 hours at most. Good shape, water pump impeller changed three months ago only used 10 hours since. Lightly used all these years. Regular-length shaft, 15 inches. $600. 941-565-5531.

HELP WANTED

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

KIDS FOR HIRE

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

SERVICES

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

cLeANING: VAcATION, cONSTRUcTION, residential, commercial and windows. Licensed and insured. 941-756-4570.

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

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

API’S DRYWALL RePAIR: I look forward to servicing your drywall repair needs. call 941-524-8067 to schedule an appointment.

P c OR T ec H issues? Not sure where to start? With years of experience, I’ll come to you with reliable solutions. contact Gavin at 928-587-1309. www.gse.codes

SARASOTA PAINTING: INTeRIOR/exterior/ cabinets: c all or text Don, 941-900-9398. Free estimates. Fully insured, twenty years’ experience.

SERVICES

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

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

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

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

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

AIRPORT SHUTTLe: QUALITY transportation, 10 years by Lewber. 352-339-3478.

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

A c HAUFF e R4U FOR TRANSPORTATION anywhere in Florida. Properly insured and over 40 years in Bradenton. Dennis, 941812-5930.

ON ec ALL c L e ANUP. Junk removal, water damage, and more. Fast, reliable service. call, 941-544-1260.

HOM e WAT c H e R: WH e N you can’t be at home, I’ll watch your home and send video of my inspection. I’m a State certified Residential Appraiser with background check. 317-997-4056.

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

c L eANING S e RVI ce S: Ten-plus years’ experience. Professional, prompt with a flexible schedule. contact Jessica, 941-900-8051.

NeeD HeLP MAKING your home, rental property or retail shop beautiful? 15-plus years of experience in residential and retail design. Free consultations. call 330-806-5919.

SERVICES Continued

RID e S 4 YOU: Airports, shopping, short trips, events 24/7. call or text, 941-398-8404, Don.

BUSINeSS-TO-BUSINeSS JD’s Window cleaning looking for storefront jobs in Holmes Beach. I make dirty windows sparkling clean. 941-9203840.

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

LARRY’S BAcK! Shell delivered and spread. Hauling all kinds of gravel, mulch, topsoil with free estimates. call Larry at 941-7957775, or “shell phone” 941-720-0770.

HOME IMPROVEMENT

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

GRIFFIN’S HOM e IMPROV e M e NTS Inc. Handyman, fine woodwork, countertops, cabinets and wood flooring. Insured and licensed. 941-722-8792.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

TRUe TONe PAINTING: Painting, power washing, epoxy floors. 941-224-4020.

c ALL HYDRO c L e AN. Full-service pressure washing, sealing. Pavers, travertine and natural stone. Window washing too, up to three stories. call Jacob, 941-920-2094.

SOUTHW e ST HOM e IMPROV e M e NT: Michigan builder, quality work guaranteed. Affordable, timely, within budget. call Mike’s cell: 1-616-2048822.

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, 859-7716423.

ANNUAL ReNTALS AVAILABLe: Off Island: Perico Isle, 3BR/2BA unfurnished pool home, two-car garage, $3,100/month. Hidden Lake, 3BR/2BA furnished condo, $3,100/month. All require application, first, last and security. Wagner Realty, 941778-2246.

SNOW BIRD SP ec IAL: Discount for multiple months. 2BR/2BA, second floor condo in Holmes Beach. Pool, tennis/pickleball, in-unit laundry, WiFi, screened lanai, covered parking. Available 2025/26 season beginning December 2025. Beautiful, bayside seating area. Pool/ beach toys, bikes included. call Jack, 312-8352323 for more information/photos.

HOLMeS BeAcH WeSTBAY cove condo. Second floor, 2BR/2BA, large lanai with bay view and one block to Gulf beach. Pools, tennis, pickleball. December and January, $4,000/month, March, $4,200. 941-778-8456. terryaposporos@gmail. com

P e RI c O BAY c LUB: 3BR/2BA, 1,800 sf unfurnished condo for rent for six or twelve months, $2,700 a month beginning in December 2025. call Bill at 412-925-0908.

2BR/1BA ANNUAL 50 yards from beach. Newly renovated. New appliances, pool. first and deposit. 941-726-6597.

3BR/2BA cANALFRONT HOMe on the north end of Anna Maria. $6,200 per month, discount for three or more months. 2BR/1BA duplex apartment, steps to the beach in Anna Maria, $3,600 per month. All prices plus tax and cleaning. Green Real estate, 941-778-0455. ken@greenreal.com

DeceMBeR SPecIAL! $3,500 month. 2BR/1BA home near Paradise Bay. Great location near cortez. Sarasota Bay view. 941-773-1552.

MADB e A c H S e ASONAL: Fully-furnished, second-floor, 2BR/2BA condo in Madeira Beach for rent Nov., Dec., Jan. April, May. Screened lanai, two pools, park amenities (pickleball included), view of the Intracoastal and short walk to Gulf beaches, restaurants, retail. No smoking. email connieandlisa@gmail.com

REAL ESTATE

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

2BR/2BA c ONDO IN Mt. Vernon for sale. Fully furnished, on lake with view of Sarasota Bay. clubhouse, pool, workout room, and hot tub. Minutes to beaches and shopping. Asking $370,000. c all Sharon, 941-7305645.

BeST ISLAND DeAL! 1BR/1BA trailer: Takeover remodel Sandpiper Resort $85,999. Retirement, annual, seasonal income. 831-212-2606.

FURNISH e D, UPGRAD e D 2BR/2BA condo, $249,000. Pool, spa, pickle ball. West Bradenton single-family home, no flood zone and no HOA fees. Very private pool, boat/RV parking, $439,000. Northwest Bradenton custom home. 2BR/2BA, two-car garage. community pool, spa, boat slips on Tampa Bay. $795,000. Real estate Mart, 941-356-1456.