The Islander Newspaper E-Edition Wednesday, feb, 04, 2026

Homesite at Longboat Pass is rising Land’s end, 7250 gulf of Mexico Drive, facing Longboat pass at the north end of Longboat Key and visible from the Longboat pass Bridge, is elevated on supports Jan. 23 as work continues to raise the structure to comply with FeMa flood-elevation standards. The bayside home sustained storm damage in 2024. Land’s end Marine was named in the 1930s. Islander photo:

Jacob Merrifield

Officials distance county port from proposed cruise terminal

By robert anderson Islander reporter

Manatee County and state officials moved to distance themselves from a proposed private cruise ship terminal near the Sunshine Skyway Bridge as opposition intensified and questions mounted over potential impacts.

At a Manatee County Board of County Commissioners meeting Jan. 27, Commissioner Mike Rahn, who chairs the Seaport Manatee Port Authority, said the port had no involvement with the cruise port project and had not communicated with the developers.

Developers are exploring construction of a cruise terminal south of the Sunshine Skyway Bridge near Terra Ceia, on the 328-acre Knott-Cowen tract, a largely undeveloped stretch of shoreline along Tampa Bay. The site lies near Rattlesnake Key, a 710-acre bar-

angela Collins, a marine fisheries and shellfish aquaculture specialist, speaks Jan. 31 at Cortez: Coffee, Culture & Conservation in Cortez. The event introduced It Takes a Village, a community initiative focused on protecting Sarasota Bay and preserving the village.

rier island long viewed by conservation advocates as environmentally sensitive.

The proposal is being advanced by SSA Marine, a global marine terminal operator, in conjunction with Tampa-based Slip Knott LLC.

Developers have said the terminal would be privately financed and designed to accommodate cruise ships unable to pass beneath the Skyway to reach Port Tampa Bay.

“The seaport has nothing to do with a private entity wanting to build any type of cruise terminal here in Manatee County,” Rahn said.

He also said port officials share concerns raised by residents, including issues with navigational safety and

Turn To cRuisE poRt, page 4

AM hears public on pier suggestions

By ryan paice Islander reporter

At a public workshop about the Anna Maria City Pier’s future, one idea rose above the rest — bringing a restaurant back to the T-end.

The city held a workshop Jan. 27 to collect public input on how to fill the vacant T-end building that previously housed Mote Marine Laboratory’s Marine Science Education and Outreach Center.

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

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

Mayor Mark Short said the contractor had completed the pile-driving process and was on track to complete the rebuild this fall.

However, Mote will not be there when the pier reopens.

Mote and the city mutually agreed earlier this year to terminate the lease for the eastern T-end building, leaving the space up for grabs.

So the municipality organized the workshop to spark a dialogue about how the space should be utilized.

Resident Amir Benaly opened public comment by calling for the vacant T-end building to be made into a coffee shop with packaged food.

“Something like this would be nice to have in there,” he said. “A lot of us, I feel like, share the same idea of just waking up in the morning, go sit out on the pier, have a cup of coffee, see the sunrise and enjoy the day.”

Janis Ian, a Grammy-winning singer-songwriter who resides in the city, added to the idea. She suggested combining the coffee shop concept with

“the equivalent of a New York hot dog stand.”

Ian said one or more hot dog stands could be carted on and off the pier as needed, which would preserve space in the vacant T-end building for seating visitors — including those arriving and departing on Manatee County’s Gulf Islands Ferry service.

Brian Seymour, a former city commissioner and co-owner of the City Pier Grill, was the first to float the idea of reestablishing a full-service restaurant.

The historic pier featured a restaurant in the same space for decades until it was damaged in 2017 by Hurricane Irma and rebuilt.

Islander photo: robert anderson It takes a village

Seymour said he had seen many people call for a restaurant to be brought back to the pier, which he said could be done with minimal impacts to the infrastructure since it was rebuilt with such operations in mind.

He added that it would not make sense to renew his lease for the City Pier Grill without securing the vacant T-end building for a restaurant.

Seymour said the grill’s current space could be converted into restaurant storage while still serving as a snack shack and bait-and-tackle shop.

Resident Cory Jackson, a vacation rental business owner, said many of the renters he has spoken with want a restaurant on the pier again.

He said that the Rod & Reel Pier — which was also destroyed in the 2024 storms — is not guaranteed to return.

“We want it to happen, but if it doesn’t happen, we need a restaurant,” Jackson said.

A few community members submitted written comments, also calling for a restaurant on the pier.

Bradenton Beach resident Karen McDonald wrote that the city has a “golden opportunity to reinstate on-the-

water dining on the pier.”

“I hope the city has the good sense to go back to having a family restaurant out on their pier,” she wrote. “People LOVED going there! It is just fine having beverages and light bites at the north end of the pier but have a restaurant on the south end.”

Bradenton resident Vicki Hart wrote, “I think I speak for many when I say that the way it used to be in the early 2000s was best. The City Pier was a great restaurant and Mote was a waste of money and resources. Bring back an old Florida crab shack-style seafood joint. We lost Annie’s, we lost Rod & Reel Pier — bring back the old AMI and say no to any more rip offs.”

After closing public comment, Commission Chair Charlie Salem said the city will continue to discuss and encouraged community members to voice their opinions at meetings.

Short thanked attendees for participating in the workshop and expressed optimism for the pier.

“We have our work cut out for us. There’s no doubt about that,” he said. “But I firmly believe that with this commission, we will come to the right decision for the city of Anna Maria.”

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

anna maria mayor mark Short opens the Jan. 27 workshop, allowing people to comment on the future use of the t-end space.

Pier rebuild financial update

the city of anna maria had spent $1,661,109 on rebuilding the city pier as of Jan. 27, according to mayor mark Short. the municipality projects the rebuild, which includes reconstruction of the pier’s walkway and repairs to its t-end, will cost $7,139,500$7,820,000.

So far, the city has received commitments from outside sources to fund $6,740,000 of that work, including:

• $3,500,000 from the Federal Emergency management agency;

• $1,990,000 from the Manatee County tourist development council;

• $1,250,000 from the state.

Short said plans for the vacant t-end building may impact cost estimates for the rebuild, since different uses may require changes to the pier infrastructure.

— ryan Paice

a tampa bay marine barge is anchored Jan. 28 near the shore, where the final numbers of concrete pilings for the anna maria city Pier’s destroyed walkway were driven into the seabed. next up, the pilings will be capped and work on the walkway will begin. islander

Anna Maria launches citizen report portal, newsletter

The city of Anna Maria is streamlining and adding to its shared communications.

Executive assistant Barbara Jeffries announced via a Jan. 29 email to The Islander that the city had launched the GoGov Citizen Report Portal.

Jeffries described the portal as “a mobile app and online platform that allows users to quickly submit service requests and reports directly to city staff.”

People can use the portal to submit “tickets” for a variety of matters, such as code enforcement concerns, cases of vacation rental noncompliance, as well as general cleanliness and maintenance issues.

The report portal isn’t the city’s only new communication tool.

City clerk Amber LaRowe announced in a Jan. 30 email to The Islander that the municipality also was launching a monthly newsletter —called City Connect.

—

ryan

Paice

Election 2026

Buchanan bows out

U.S. Rep. Vern Buchanan, R-Longboat Key, announced Jan. 27 that he’ll not seek reelection in November and retire at the end of his current term.

The vice chair of the House Ways and Means Committee will leave office after 20 years.

“Serving the people of Southwest Florida has been the honor of my lifetime,” Buchanan said in a news release. “Every achievement worth doing began with listening to my constituents and fighting for their priorities.”

He also stated, “After 20 years of service, I believe it’s the right time to pass the torch and begin a new chapter in my life.”

The release called the congressman “a leading voice on protecting Florida’s natural resources, working to combat red tide, safeguard water quality, and protect manatees and coastal ecosystems vital to Southwest Florida’s economy and way of life.”

Current candidates in Florida’s 16th Congressional District, which includes Anna Maria Island, are independent Mark Davis and Democrats Jonathan Harris, Glenn Pearson and Jan Schneider.

Potential GOP candidates include state Reps. James Buchanan and Fiona McFarland. former Senate President Bill Galvano and former state Rep. Tommy Gregory.

— Lisa neff

Holmes Beach selects new city clerk

by ryan Paice islander reporter

The office of the Holmes Beach city clerk is set to change hands for the first time in nearly two decades.

City commissioners unanimously voted Jan. 27 in concurrence with Mayor Judy Titsworth’s appointment of Marina Hovious as city clerk. She will succeed Stacey Johnston, who is set to retire March 6 after serving as the city’s record-keeper since August 2007.

Hovious graduated in 2007 from Washington State University with bachelor’s degrees in history and English. She currently works as board clerk for Multnomah County in Oregon, a position she has held since 2018, after working the previous eight years as assistant board clerk for the same county.

Hovious became a certifi ed municipal clerk in 2025.

Titsworth was absent from the Jan. 27 meeting, so city attorney Randy Mora opened the discussion on Hovious’ appointment.

Holmes Beach dog park gets new sod

caution tape and temporary fencing blocks access Jan. 27 to the south side of the small dog park at Holmes beach city field, between 62nd Street, flotilla drive and 59th Street, where the municipality’s public works department laid new sod. after the sod is given time to take root, the city will lay more sod on the north side, taking a partial bite from the small dog park until friday, may 8. the city also laid sod on the west side of the big dog park, resulting in the closure of its west gate until friday, march 13, at which point the east side will be sodded and the east gate will be closed. the big dog park is projected to fully reopen thursday, July 2. islander Photo: robert anderson

Mora said the city conducted interviews with a handful of candidates, including deputy clerk Michelle Lowe, and Titsworth selected Hovious.

City commissioners were allowed to separately interview Hovious over Zoom ahead of the meeting.

Many of them praised Hovious’ qualifi cations, including Commission Chair Carol Whitmore, who said she is “very well-credentialed.”

Commissioner Jessica Patel questioned why Titsworth selected Hovious over Lowe, whom she said was already familiar with the city. Mora said he could not answer for the mayor.

Commissioner Terry Schaefer said the city has to look beyond the “emotion of internal favoritism” and that he trusted Titsworth to select the most qualified candidate for the job.

He said he was “impressed” with Hovious’ knowledge as a clerk during their interview and moved to approve her appointment.

Commissioner Dan Diggins, who seconded the motion, said Hovious was “by far” the most qualified candidate for the position. The motion passed without opposition or public comment.

Hovious’ first day as city clerk will be March 7.

Work underway for new water main to island

by ryan Paice islander reporter

A path for the new subaqueous water main to Anna Maria Island is underway.

According to a Jan. 26 project update published by Manatee County, Loxahatchee-based DBE Management has begun drilling an underground pathway across the Intracoastal Waterway for the pipeline, which will run under Anna Maria Sound along the north side of Manatee Avenue.

A previous water main ran along the underside of the AMI Bridge, but collapsed into the Sound in 2023 when hangers attaching it to the bridge failed.

The county had a temporary pipeline built to restore water access to the island, but its position along the west-half of the bridge’s southern sidewalk has kept the walkway closed for almost three years.

Last year, the county hired DBE to build a new water main for $4,167,216.74.

The contractor began work on the project last

RoadWatch

Eyes on the road

State Road 64/Anna Maria Island Bridge: The Manatee Avenue Water Main Intracoastal Crossing project is underway, with plans for 24/7 drilling operations for a submerged pipe in the Intracoastal Waterway and temporary lane closures. Info: www. amiprojects.io, 941-306-4660, info@amiprojects.io.

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

Cortez Bridge: Construction activities are ongoing on the south side of Cortez Road West east of the bridge, with sidewalk closures. Pipe installation is expected to continue into the spring. Info: 941-3064660, info@amiprojects.io, amiprojects.io.

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

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

— Lisa neff

December and, by January, had started boring east from a staging area at the Kingfish Boat Ramp in Holmes Beach.

The drill must run 24/7 to keep the pathway clear, resulting in continuous noise impacts.

Loxahatchee-based dbe management employees drill a hole Jan. 27 under anna maria Sound from a staging area at the Kingfish boat ramp, 752 manatee ave., Holmes beach, for a subaqueous pipeline that will bring potable water to anna maria island. islander Photo: robert anderson

According to the county’s update, that work may result in the temporary closure of Kingfish and a secondary entrance to the Compass Hotel at Floridays restaurant — at the east end of the designated project area — in February.

When DBE finishes drilling the tunnel under the Intracoastal Waterway, the contractor will install the new pipeline by pulling it back through the hole from east to west.

The new water main will then be tested, tied into existing utilities and made operational.

At that point, the contractor will begin removing the existing temporary pipeline from the bridge. That work, which is scheduled for summer, will temporarily impact Manatee Avenue traffic.

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

environmental impacts associated with increased vessel traffic in Tampa Bay.

Rahn’s comments followed recent state legislative debate over a proposal to restructure the port authority.

That legislation, sponsored by state Rep. Bill Conerly, R-Lakewood Ranch, has been withdrawn and, in a joint statement, state Sen. Jim Boyd, R-Bradenton, and Rep. Will Robinson Jr., R-Bradenton, said, “While HB 4073 has no direct relationship to a cruise terminal, there are concerns about proposed changes to control and jurisdiction at this critical time. Therefore, we believe it is prudent to pause and withdraw the local bill from further consideration this legislative session and allow for continued dialogue with all stakeholders.”

Boyd and Robinson also pushed back against the proposed cruise terminal, questioning whether the site could safely accommodate large cruise ships and whether projected economic benefits would justify impacts.

In a Jan. 23 Facebook post, Robinson, who, due to term limits, is not eligible to seek reelection in the fall, said he could not envision “a worse place” for a cruise ship terminal, calling the Terra Ceia and

MPO director retires dave Hutchinson, at his last meeting as executive director of the Sarasota/manatee regional metropolitan Planning organizations, accepts a plaque Jan. 26 from bradenton mayor gene brown. Hutchinson joined the mPo in 2011 and is retiring. His successor is ryan brown, who had worked as mPo deputy director. islander Screenshot

Rattlesnake Key area fundamentally incompatible with large-scale cruise operations and warning that the project would permanently alter the character of the region.

Boyd has described the site as among the region’s most ecologically sensitive stretches of coastline and said a cruise port would be incompatible with the location.

The cruise port project is at a preliminary, conceptual stage. The developers submitted a pre-application request to the county, a preliminary step that allows staff to review a concept and provide feedback before any formal filings.

Any cruise terminal would require environmental permits from state and federal agencies, along with rezoning approvals and infrastructure reviews.

As of Jan. 30, no formal applications had been filed.

Meanwhile a Change.org petition opposing a cruise ship port was circulating at www.change. org/p/stop-manatee-county-from-building-a-cruiseship-port-on-rattle-snake-key.

Also, a rally to oppose a possible cruise ship port will be at 11 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 14, at Seabreeze Park, 55 Horseshoe Loop, Terra Ceia.

Garden club fundraising to beautify HB beach accesses

by ryan Paice islander reporter

The Anna Maria Island Garden Club has set its sights on beautifying beach access points in Holmes Beach — and maybe more.

Club president Renitia “Reni” Bertoluzzi and project manager Mary Lange, who also serves on the city’s parks and beautification committee, told The Islander Jan. 30 about efforts to raise money to beautify 34 beach access points from 28th Street to White Avenue.

Bertoluzzi said the club was brainstorming ideas last August for island beautification projects, so she reached out to Mayor Judy Titsworth, who pointed her to beach access points, where signage, trash receptacles, bins and dumpsters, as well as the occasional bicycle rack are frequently found.

Bertoluzzi and Lange surveyed each of the 34 beach access points last September.

According to a club report shared with The Islander, they found some points are “extremely scenic” but others are “little more than sand, signs and trash bins.”

The report also states, “At all sites, the trash bins are an eyesore that detracts from the otherwise beautiful views of the beach and the Gulf of Mexico.”

The club decided to team up with the city to beautify the access points by fencing off trash bins, planting trees in barren areas and native beach wildflowers and sea oats to add color.

“It won’t disguise the trash cans completely, but it sure looks a lot better than a big old rusty green bin there,” Lange said.

On the club’s end, it is collecting $1,000 donations to sponsor improvements for specific access points, beginning with four prioritized spots at 33rd, 52nd, 66th and 77th streets.

The cost covers about $700 for fencing and $300 for trees and plants at each location.

So far, the club has secured $14,000 in committed donations — enough to cover 14 beach accesses.

“People are excited about this project,” Bertoluzzi said.

Donors will be recognized at the club’s annual Fashion Show Wednesday, Feb. 25, at IMG Academy Golf Club in Bradenton.

BB Commission appoints interim building official

by robert anderson islander reporter

Bradenton Beach commissioners voted unanimously Jan. 27 to accept the resignation of Bill Palmer and appoint an interim building official.

The commission accepted Palmer’s Jan. 21 resignation without discussion. He had been hired as the building official in February 2025.

City Attorney Erica Augello then outlined how the city could proceed without a charter-appointed building official.

She said that while the city contracts with Tew & Taylor, a West Palm Beach-based engineering firm that provides personnel for building department services, the agreement does not authorize the firm to perform duties reserved for an appointed building official, including interpretations of the building code and land development regulations.

Augello recommended appointing an acting building official for no more than six months to allow the city to evaluate long-term staffing options.

“There is a difference between someone who can act like a building official and someone who is an appointed building official,” Augello said. “Every city can only have one appointed building official. At this point, you have none.”

Plan now for season!

Is your business ready to make the most of every week? Improve your odds of success with Islander newspaper readers looking to shop and dine, seeking indoor and outdoor fun, and a place to stay for their next visit. Call or text 941-778-7978.

Commissioners Scott Bear and Ralph Cole said the interim period would allow time to reassess whether the city should hire an in-house employee or continue contracting services.

“I think there’s advantages and disadvantages to each,” Cole said.

Robert Perry of Tew & Taylor attended the Jan. 27 meeting. He told commissioners their inspectors and plan reviewers were working part-time to close projects stalled during a post-hurricane construction surge.

“We’re cleaning up a lot of things, and we’re also putting some closure to some of the jobs that have been hanging around,” Perry said.

Perry also warned of unlicensed and unpermitted work in the city.

“We’re going to tighten up on this kind of stuff,” he said, noting lax enforcement could expose residents to losses during future storms.

The commission voted 3-0 to appoint Perry as acting building official and approved an amendment to its professional services agreement with Tew & Taylor defining Perry’s tenure.

Mayor John Chappie said the issue will be revisited during upcoming budget discussions.

The next commission meeting will be 6 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 5, at city hall, 107 Gulf Drive N.

a beach access point at the west end of 72nd Street in Holmes beach, where the city is working with the anna maria island garden club on beautification. islander Photo: robert anderson

They also will be recognized with signage at their sponsored access and thank you letters from the city.

On the city’s end, municipal staff led by Tray Thorp, the city’s parks and landscaping supervisor, will carry out the work building and installing fencing, planting and watering and maintaining the sites.

Work beautifying the sponsored beach accesses will likely run into 2027, but a schedule has yet to be determined, according to Bertoluzzi and Lange.

“Of course, there are things we haven’t figured out yet, but it’s rolling,” Bertoluzzi said.

They credited Titsworth and Thorp for their work on the project, which they said could expand to involve the other island cities.

“We’re going to see if we can scale it up there, too,” Lange said. “In a perfect world, we’d do something with all three cities.”

People can contact Bertoluzzi about sponsoring a beach access by calling her at 941-224-1761 or emailing president@amigardenclub.com.

Manatee County beach patrol wins statewide honor

The Manatee County Beach Patrol is the 2025 Beach Patrol of the Year, an award from the Florida Beach Patrol Chiefs Association.

The award was presented Jan. 27 during a county commission meeting, recognizing the patrol’s performance, professionalism and commitment to public safety. The beach patrol also earned the distinction in 2017.

The association represents beach patrol agencies statewide and promotes excellence in lifesaving training and beach safety operations.

In 2025, the patrol assisted in reuniting more than 200 missing people with their families, most of them children, and conducted more than 300 water rescues.

The patrol also responded to about 1,400 medical incidents, including more than 350 advanced life-support calls.

During hurricanes Debby, Helene and Milton in 2024, the patrol conducted more than 400 rescues while continuing post-storm recovery and resident assistance efforts.

“Every time our lifeguards do a water rescue, they put their lives on the line,” division chief Chet Brown stated in a news release. “I am humbled to lead this team.”

The patrol operates under the public safety department and serves Coquina Beach, Cortez Beach and Manatee Public Beach.

— robert anderson

How cold is it, Mama?

Well. It’s been pretty (substitute your expletive here) cold — for Florida.

About 50 years ago, I went with a group of hooligans to Key West for Super Bowl weekend and, while waiting through the football hype, I took off to a bodega that was just up the street.

Since I’d tossed my (Illinois) winter coat at a rest stop on the way to Florida, I was wearing flip-flops, jeans, a T-shirt and leather blazer, my best winter gear at the time.

With the temp in the low 50s and the wind howling across the waters, it was darn cold there. In my mind, it felt like when I waded to school in knee-high snow in Danville.

Fr-fr-fr-fr-freezing.

I think the past couple of weeks here — in Bradenton and on Anna Maria Island, where the wind blows across the water from any direction — it’s been that cold nearly every morning.

But as the sun rises and hovers overhead at noon, it begins to warm. We had some beautiful days during the cold fronts that dropped in on us.

Folks who cherish the weather reports might also be fishers, who will recall when the snook fishery took a hit from freezing temps in Manatee County.

Snook fishing has been limited by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission since a massive number died during a five-day stretch of a 100year freeze in January 2010, when the air in Manatee County warmed to a daily high of only 49 degrees.

Some snook survivors found the heat of deepwater springs and power plant runoff — much like the manatees.

It also had an impact on the stone crab fishery, sending the crabs crawling to warmer waters or death when the island waters dipped into the low 50s.

With so many visitors and so many newcomers, a lot of folks don’t realize how cold it can be here when the weather gods are disturbed.

Since one of the Islander staff is working from New York and another is in Tennessee, we’re keenly aware of how cold it is “up north.”

My friend in Illinois — who has dozens of bee hives on his property — says it’s “challenging” to keep the bees happy in prolonged freezing temps while mounds of snow cover their food sources.

In comparison — we got it good.

With a high of 51 expected here on Feb. 2 — Gourndhog Day — we’re looking at more winter.

I hope the snook (and my bees) survive. Stay warm. Think spring.

— Bonner Joy, news@islander.org

OpinionYour

Stop the Skyway cruise port

A new cruise ship terminal, tentatively called the Knott-Cowen Cruise Port, has been proposed on the seaward side of Interstate 275 at the Sunshine Skyway Bridge, on the Knott-Cowen tract, near Terra Ceia Bay and Rattlesnake Key.

The project, put forward by SSA Marine in partnership with the Tampa-based Slip Knott LLC, has sparked alarm among local communities and organizations seeking to protect Florida’s vital waterways.

Connections

Skimming online

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The Islander Poll

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

▼ Editorial robert anderson, robert@islander.org

Joe bird, editorial cartoonist Kevin cassidy, kevin@islander.org Jack elka, jack@jackelka.com

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

▼ Contributors

Jacob merrifield capt. danny Stasny, fish@islander.org

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▼ Webmaster

Wayne ansell

SSA Marine claims the terminal would allow for larger cruise ships to visit Tampa Bay.

All others: info@islander.org

In a recent Bradenton Herald opinion column, Stefano Borzone, president of SSA Marine’s Cruise Division, wrote: “Together, we can define the next generation of cruising in West Central Florida: one that supports local jobs, strengthens the region, preserves the region’s unique ecology, and reflects the values of West Central Florida.”

But Tampa Bay Waterkeeper, Suncoast Waterkeeper and our partners are speaking about a very different reality.

The proposed port would threaten the health of our shared watersheds, including Tampa Bay, Terra Ceia Bay, Sarasota Bay, and beyond. SSA Marine’s claims about economic benefits and ecological preservation obscure the real, serious harm this terminal would inflict on our waterways, our health, our businesses, and our way of life.

To follow us on the issue, go to suncoastwaterkeeper.org.

Tampa Bay Waterkeeper

Letters to the editor

The Islander welcomes opinion letters. Send letters with name, address and phone number to news@islander.org. Only the name and city are published. Letters are edited for space to no more than 250 words.

Where’s the best spot for a ferry landing in Holmes Beach?

A. Near the Waterline Marina in the city center.

B. Obviously, the Kingfish Boat Ramp.

C. Why not the Gulfside at Manatee Public Beach?

D. The Holmes Beach Boat Ramp on Marina Way.

E. Other location.

F. No place works.

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

Last week’s question

Do you support a Manatee County cruise port near the Sunshine Skyway Bridge?

No way, environmentally disastrous. 69% Yes, great development potential. 12% Unsure, too many unknowns. 16% Meh, will never happen. 3%

10-20-30 years ago

From the Feb. 1, 1996, issue

• The Anchorage Restaurant on Bay Boulevard and Pine Avenue in Anna Maria — formerly the site of Fast Eddie’s and vacant for 10 months — was sold to Casco Bay Restaurant Group for an undisclosed amount.

• Holmes Beach city attorney Patricia Petruff was tasked with drafting an ordinance restricting rentals in the R-1 district to no less than 30 days.

• A two-day festival on Bradenton Beach’s Bridge Street featured music, exhibits, food and beverage sales and a street dance.

From the Feb. 1, 2006, issue

• The Holmes Beach building department reported issuing at least one demolition permit per week in 2005. “It seems like every day we’d see another home being removed off the island to make room for construction,” building official Bill Saunders said.

• Residents of Westbay Cove in Holmes Beach showed up at a city commission meeting to protest Manatee County plans to add parking at the Kingfish Boat Ramp. Commissioners rejected the county proposal, as well as a plan to build a restroom at the ramp.

From the Feb. 3, 2016, issue

• Bradenton Beach city attorney Ricinda Perry offered to work for free on a resolution limiting Mayor Bill Shearon’s authority. Perry made the offer during a discussion about Shearon setting the agenda for the city commission.

• Holmes Beach Mayor Bob Johnson vetoed a permit-parking plan approved by a 3-2 city commission vote.

— Lisa neff

compiled by Lisa neff, calendar@islander.org

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

ON AMI

Thursday, Feb. 5

2 p.m. — Friends of the Island Library Lecture, Ryan Nunez on “AI: What It Is and What It Can Do for Us,” Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Info: 941-778-6341. Friday, Feb. 6

10 a.m.-5 p.m. — Feed the Peeps Art and Craft Show, Bayfront Park, 316 N. Bay Blvd., Anna Maria. Saturday, Feb. 7

10 a.m.-5 p.m. — Feed the Peeps Art and Craft Show, Bayfront Park, 316 N. Bay Blvd., Anna Maria.

ONGOING ON AMI

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

• Throughout February, Artists Guild Gallery exhibit by featured artist Anne Abgott, 5414 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Info: amiartistsguildgallery.com, 941-778-6694.

ONGOING

OFF AMI

• Feb. 5-8, Suncoast Cigar Box Guitar Festival, Village of the Arts, 12th Street West and 12th Avenue West, Bradenton. Info: villageofthearts.com.

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

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

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

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

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

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

DEVINE DESIGN

Lecture series continues

The Friends of the Island Library continues its annual lecture series throughout February.

Programs start at 2 p.m. in the community room at the Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Doors will open at 1:30 p.m. and seating is limited.

The lineup includes Ryan Nunez demystifying artificial intelligence and its practical applications on Feb. 5.

Robert Gaglio will take attendees on a journey through “The Other Italy” Feb. 12, while charter fishing guide Scott Moore will share five decades of “reel time” experience on the waters around Anna Maria Island on Feb. 19.

The series will conclude Feb. 26 with Nate Jacobs, founder of the West Coast Black Theater Troupe.

For more information, call the library at 941778-6341.

SAVE THE DATES

• Feb. 12, Friends of the Island Library lecture, Holmes Beach.

• Feb. 14, Center of Anna Maria Island Atlanta Rhythm Section concert, Anna Maria.

• Feb. 14, De Soto National Memorial’s Food Truck Saturdays, Bradenton.

• Feb. 14-16, Sundays at Neel/Jersey Boys Tribute, Bradenton.

• Feb. 14-15, Cortez Commercial Fishing Festival, Cortez.

• Feb. 19, Friends of the Island Library lecture, Holmes Beach.

• Feb. 19-March 1, Manatee Players’ “The Cemetery Club,” Bradenton.

• Feb. 25, Anna Maria Island Garden Club Fashion Show, Bradenton.

• Feb. 26, Friends of the Island Library lecture, Holmes Beach.

• Feb. 28, Palma Sola Botanical Park’s The Florida Highwaymen exhibit, Bradenton.

• March 1, Center of Anna Maria Island John Oates and The Good Road Band concert, Anna Maria.

• March 1, Taste of the Island, Holmes Beach.

• Feb. 28-March 1, Springfest, Holmes Beach.

• March 5-15, Manatee Players’ “Bright Star,” Bradenton.

• March 6-7, Center’s Murder Mystery Dinner, Anna Maria.

• March 12-29, Island Players’ “The Second Time Around,” Anna Maria.

• March 14, De Soto National Memorial’s Food Truck Saturdays, Bradenton.

• March 15, Island Players’ “The Outsider” auditions, Anna Maria.

• March 21-23, Sundays at Neel/Elton John Tribute, Bradenton.

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

• March 29, Sundays at Neel/John Denver Tribute, Bradenton.

KIDS & FAMILY

ONGOING ON AMI

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

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

SAVE THE DATES

• Feb. 20, Center Bingo Night, Anna Maria.

• March 15, St. Patrick’s Day Parade, AMI.

• March 20, Center Bingo Night Anna Maria.

CLUBS & COMMUNITY

ONGOING ON AMI

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

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

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

• First and third Tuesdays, noon, Rotary Club of Anna Maria Island luncheons, the Beach House patio, 200 Gulf Drive N., Bradenton Beach. Fee applies. Info: amirotary.org.

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

SAVE THE DATES

• Feb. 13, City Block Party, Anna Maria.

• Feb. 21, Center of Anna Maria Island Beach Cleanup. Anna Maria.

• Feb. 24, Tingley Memorial Library grand reopening celebration, Bradenton Beach.

• Feb. 25, Annie Silver Community Dinner, Bradenton Beach.

• Feb. 28, Roser Church Pancake Breakfast, Anna Maria.

• March 14, Paws in Motion Walk-a-thon, Bradenton.

• March 7-8, Back to Angola, Bradenton.

• March 17, Palma Sola Botanical Park Garden Workday, Bradenton.

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

• March 21, Center of Anna Maria Island Beach Cleanup. Anna Maria.

• March 25, Annie Silver Community Dinner, Bradenton Beach.

MARKETS & COMMUNITY SALES

ONGOING ON AMI

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

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

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

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

ONGOING OFF AMI

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

SAVE THE DATES

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

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

• Feb. 14, Village of the Arts Valentine’s Day Market, Bradenton.

• March 14, Florida Maritime Museum Nautical Flea Market, Cortez.

Music Lessons: Guitar, Bass Piano, Ukulele,

Off Stage Ladies to meet at Mean Dean’s

The Off Stage Ladies will host their monthly luncheon meeting at 11:45 a.m. Wednesday, Feb. 11, at Mean Dean’s Local Kitchen, a restaurant at 6059 26th St. W., Bradenton.

Guest speaker Preston Boyd will address the group. Boyd is directing the Island Players’ upcoming production of “Second Time Around.”

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

Annual membership dues are $30.

For more information, contact Roe Duncan, VP of membership, at 941-932-2798.

Pirates bring party to Main

The Pittsburgh Pirates and Bradenton Marauders will celebrate Valentine’s Day with loving baseball fans at their annual spring training Block Party.

The free event runs 6-9 p.m. on Old Main Street in Bradenton and will feature games, player autographs and live music by local band Yesterday Daze. The party ushers in the Pirates’ spring training season and is designed as a community celebration.

For more information about the party and spring baseball, go to pirates.com/spring.

caLeNDar continued from Page 8

Ranch.

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

• April 18, Herrig Center Snatch It Up, Bradenton. SPORTS & FITNESS

ONGOING ON AMI

• Wednesdays, 11 a.m. through season, Holy Yoga, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Info: 941-778-0414.

SAVE THE DATES

• Feb. 14, Pittsburgh Pirates Block Party, Bradenton.

• Feb. 20-21, Bradenton Regatta, Bradenton.

• Feb. 21, Pirates spring training begins.

• April 2, Bradenton Marauders season begins. OUTDOORS & NATURE OFF AMI

Friday, Feb. 6

6 p.m. — Game Night at the NEST, Robinson Preserve, 840 99th St. NW, Bradenton. Info: 941-748-4501, mymanatee.org.

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

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

MARK THE DATES

• Feb. 8, Super Bowl.

• Feb. 14, Valentine’s Day.

Island happenings

Garden club celebrates 75 years with fashion show

The Anna Maria Island Garden Club is marking its 75th anniversary with its annual fashion show and luncheon, “75 Years in Bloom — A Diamond Celebration,” Wednesday, Feb. 25.

The event will be 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. at Icon Bayside at IMG Academy Golf Club, 4350 El Conquistador Parkway, Bradenton. Tickets are $80.

Attendees will enjoy fashions, hair and makeup demonstrations, along with pop-up shopping opportunities.

Making the finals

anna maria elementary School staff and students are cheering fifth-grade teacher nicole o’neill, named an educator of the Year finalist alongside three other teachers in the School district of manatee county. the award will be announced feb. 4. Presented by the School district of manatee county and the manatee education foundation, the honor recognizes outstanding teachers for leadership, creativity and commitment to student success. islander Photo: courtesy ame

The afternoon will also feature raffles of baskets and silent and live auctions.

The garden club has been a fixture in the community for three-quarters of a century, promoting horticulture, conservation and beautification efforts throughout Anna Maria Island.

Tickets can be purchased online at https://amigcfashionshow2026.rsvpify.com/.

For more information, contact fashion show chair Pat Olesen at 636-373-4331.

program add plants to the school garden.

anna maria elementary’s VPK students learn planting techniques in the school garden at the Holmes beach campus. during the week ending Jan. 23, ame said, “the littlest learners planted broccoli, cauliflower, and sweet peppers, giving them a hands-on way to learn where food comes from and why healthy choices matter.” the program got underway with help from the School district of manatee county’s food and nutrition services. islander

Photos: courtesy ame/Via facebook

•

SARASOTA GEM

Left: brian Spellissy plates pancakes hot off the griddle at roser memorial community church, 512 Pine ave., anna maria. the church held its first pancake breakfast of the season, welcoming some diners in winter jackets and others in shorts and t-shirts, as the day’s high temperature was predicted to be 59 degrees. rigHt: Kathleen eskew welcomes diners Jan. 31 to the first pancake breakfast of the season at roser memorial community church. islander Photos: Lisa neff

Left: ron macdonald of Kansas holds up his bingo cards after a winning round. annie Silver community center board members bonnie Price, left, and Jim Hassett prepare Jan. 29 to draw a number.

middLe: Kathy Perry holds up her winning bingo card at annie Silver.

Continued cold, chilly weather causes withdrawal for anglers

by capt. danny Stasny islander reporter

Anna Maria Island anglers are experiencing withdrawals, lacking their typical fix of fishing due to cold temps and windy conditions.

All the chores around the house are done and the fishing rods are rigged, awaiting a break in the weather, which should be in the near future.

And when it does break, the fish had better hide, because every angler in Manatee County has been itching to get out and wet their lines.

Sheepshead — a fi sh that seems to shake off the cold without much effort — will be one of the main targets when anglers get back on the water.

Islander archive 24/7

Some years ago, The Islander was invited to take part in a pilot project with the University of Florida George A. Smathers Libraries. It’s all maintained on the library site, since our first edition in 1992, searchable by key word, name or date. Look for The Islander in the stacks at the UofF Florida digital newspaper collection at ufdc.ufl.edu.

Casting live shrimp, fi ddler crabs or sand fl eas around barnacle-encrusted pilings is a good plan of attack if you’re fishing from land. If you’re on a boat, you may start on the artificial reefs to test your luck.

Redfish also seem to be fairly hearty when it comes to cooler water temps, which makes them a good option to target.

Creek mouths, docks, canals and oyster bars are a great place to start when looking for a redfish hookup. Casting live shrimp or small crabs cut in half will usually get the job done. Plus, these baits will attract other predators, like sheepshead and black drum, which may help increase your odds when the cold gives you the feeling that the cards are stacked against you.

Lastly, casually doing a drift over deep grass flats with shrimp-tipped jigs may surprise you — as you stumble upon a school of pompano, bluefish or ladyfish. These species are semi-tolerant of the cooler water and can provide some excellent action when you aren’t expecting much. Also, the drifting and jigging helps you cover more area, which should increase your odds of finding fish.

Despite the colder than normal temperatures, Capt. David White is managing to find some action for his “cool” clients on sheepshead, black drum and redfish, especially when deploying live shrimp as bait. These fish are being found in deeper canals where water temps remain slightly warmer than open water spots. On cold

but sunny days, the concrete seawalls can help warm the water temp, which, of course, improves the bite.

Some patience is required but persistence is being rewarded with some nice-sized fish for the cooler. Moving out onto the flats, White has clients drifting and jigging. Using soft plastics on a jighead is yielding action on bluefish and a few pompano for the cooler.

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

Water rescue at Coquina

A kayaker was safely rescued Jan. 31 after being pushed offshore by waves and rough conditions at Coquina Beach in Bradenton Beach.

According to West Manatee Fire Rescue Fire Marshal Rodney Kwiatkowski, Manatee County Beach Patrol lifeguards initiated the rescue after the individual fell from the kayak and was carried away from shore. The lifeguards were joined by WMFR and Manatee County Emergency Medical Services in the rescue efforts.

The individual was removed from the water and evaluated at the scene. No serious injuries were reported.

Fire officials credited the county lifeguards for their quick response and coordinated rescue efforts.

— robert anderson

WMFR donates

engine to North Carolina fire department

West Manatee Fire Rescue District commissioners unanimously voted Jan. 20 to donate Engine 122 to the Stewart Simmons Volunteer Fire Department in Boone, North Carolina.

The district regularly donates engines when they reach the end of their lives, which can take 10-25 years.

Deputy Chief Jay Johnson, who presented the proposal, said the fire engine was purchased in 2005 and had reached the end of its life.

He recommended donating the engine to the SSVFD since the department cannot afford to purchase one with its $550,000 annual operating budget.

Johnson added that WMFR has ties to the SSVFD since former Fire Chief Andy Price lives in that area and current Fire Chief Ben Rigney’s father, John Rigney, volunteers for the department.

Commissioner Robert Bennett moved to approve the proposal. Commissioner Billy Burke seconded the motion.

Ben Rigney wrote in a Jan. 21 text message to The Islander that SSVFD staff plans to accept the donation at WMFR’s next commission meeting.

That meeting will be at 6 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 17, at the district’s administrative headquarters, 701 63rd St. W., Bradenton.

— ryan Paice

BBPD investigates road rage involving firearm

Bradenton Beach police are investigating a roadrage incident in which a driver allegedly threatened another motorist with a handgun.

Officers responded Jan. 22 to a report involving a reckless driver in the 200 block of Gulf Drive South. The complainant, a 40-year-old Sarasota man, said a motorist in a white pickup passed him while driving erratically.

The complainant also alleged the driver made obscene gestures, formed his hand into the shape of a gun and mouthed the words, “I will shoot you.” He then retrieved what appeared to be a handgun and repeated the threat before driving away.

The complainant later signed an affidavit and said he would press charges.

Streetlife

Schooled on fire safety rigHt: West manatee fire rescue fire inspector malik Staton talks Jan. 20 with students at the ida m. Stewart elementary School in bradenton about preparing escape plans in the event of a house fire. beLoW

Left: Wmfr firefighter gavin Johnston shows students the workings of a fire engine. islander

Wmfr

Island police reports

Anna Maria

No new reports.

Bradenton Beach

No new reports.

Cortez

No new reports.

Holmes Beach

No arrest had been made as of Islander press time Feb 2.

The incident is being investigated as aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, a felony, which upon conviction could result in five years in prison and five years of probation.

— robert anderson

Island watch call 911 in an emergency. Otherwise, call the MCSO Anna Maria substation, 941708-8899; Bradenton Beach police, 941-778-6311; or Holmes Beach police, 941-708-5804.

Police reports indicate the truck was registered to a Bradenton man. Deputies attempted to make contact at his address.

Jan. 21, 500 block of 56th Street, theft. A Holmes Beach police officer responded to reports of theft from a construction site. A construction worker said he had secured tools inside a closet and then found them missing. He estimated the tools were worth $1,200$1,500.

Jan. 27, 400 block of 72nd Street, hit-and-run. An officer responded to reports of a hit-and-run traffic incident. He spoke with the complainant, who said he was cleaning pools when a motorist hit his vehicle’s passenger door, resulting in damage. The officer issued a case number.

Streetlife is based on reports from the HB and BBPD and the MCSO.

— robert anderson and ryan Paice

Gathering

Super Bowl bake sale set

The Women’s Guild at St. Bernard Catholic Church, 248 S. Harbor Drive, Holmes Beach, will hold a Super Bowl Weekend Bake Sale Saturday-Sunday, Feb. 7-8.

The sales will take place after Mass at the church.

A notice in the church bulletin said, “All parishioners are invited to contribute baked goods and Super Bowl treats.”

The guild also will begin sales for its Basket Bonanza on Feb. 7.

The bulletin notice read, “The contents are AMAZING and not to be missed!”

GoodDeeds

Assistance sought on AMI

Terrific Tuesdays at Roser

Roser Memorial Community Church is hosting a four-week series of community dinners and Bible study this February and March.

The Terrific Tuesdays events will take place in the Fellowship Hall on Tuesdays, Feb. 10, Feb. 17, March. 24, and March 3.

There will be a Bible study at 6:45 p.m.

The church is at 512 Pine Ave. Anna Maria.

For more, call the church office at 941-7780414.

the rev. dirk rodgers leads bible study in the roser memorial chapel. islander courtesy Photo

tailgate party

The church’s phone number is 941-778-4769. Chapel to host

The Longboat Island Chapel will kick off Super Bowl Sunday with a tailgate party.

The event will be at 11 a.m. Feb. 8 in Shook Hall and feature game-day fare — pulled pork, wings and potato salad.

Attendees are encouraged to bring dollar bills to participate in a “squares” pool.

The chapel is at 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key,

For more information, call 941-383-6491.

Obituary

Dale Eugene Crall

Dale Eugene Crall, 89, retired, a long-standing resident of Holmes Beach, died Jan. 5.

Born March 30, 1936, in Midland, Michigan, he was the third of seven children of Maurice and Dorothy (Tucker) Crall.

Mr. Crall served in the U.S. Navy Reserves, including two years of active duty on Pacific Fleet deployments.

A memorial service will be held in the chapel at the Roser Memorial Community Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, at 11:30 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 7. A Navy Honor Team out of Jacksonville will provide military honors at the service.

He became one of the first people trained in IBM systems through Traders National Bank. He also served as the inaugural pastor of West Church of the Nazarene in Grand Rapids, Michigan.

Upon completing his degree from Nazarene Theological Seminary, he served as the inaugural pastor

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

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

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

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

• Cortez Village Historical Society seeks volunteers to catalogue materials and serve as docents. Info: cvhs2016@aol.com.

of West Church of the Nazarene in Grand Rapids, Michigan. From there, he went on to work with Lear Siegler Corporation, and then-prestigious Seidman & Seidman CPA firm as both a computer manager and consultant.

He went on to work with Lear Siegler Corporation, and then-prestigious Seidman & Seidman CPA firm as both a computer manager and consultant.

Mr. Crall later became special assistant to the Pennsylvania Secretary of Transportation, with a key role in the department’s Operations Review Group.

In 1991, he retired to Anna Maria Island with his wife, Janice, and continued to work in accounting and tax preparation with a variety of clients on the island.

• Friends of the Island Library collects jewelry for its spring jewelry sale to benefit the library. Info: 941-778-4255.

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

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

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

Assistance offered on AMI

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

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

— Lisa neff

Email listings to lisa@islander.org.

At your service

Obituaries are offered as a service to residents and families of residents past and present, as well as to people with ties to the island. Send to news@ islander.org. Obituaries are provided free — a service of your community newspaper. Paid obituaries can be purchased through our advertising consultant by calling 941-778-7978.

Memorial donations may be made to the Dale E Crall Memorial Fund at Hancock Whitney Bank; through Venmo at Dale E Crall Memorial Fund@ daleecrallmemorialfund; or CashApp $DaleECrallMemorial.

Mr. Crall is survived by daughter Carrie L. Williams; son Michael D.; sister Nancy Bauerle of Midland, Michigan; many nieces, nephews, and cousins; 12 grandchildren; and 40 great-grandchildren.

Winter sports — and cold temps — spring up all over AMI

By Kevin P. Cassidy Islander Reporter

After three weeks of action in the adult indoor soccer league at the Center of Anna Maria Island, Sato Real Estate is on top of the standings with a 2-0-1 record. Pool America and Slim’s Place are tied for second with matching 1-1 records, while Solid Rock Construction at 1-2 and Salty Printing at 0-1-1 complete the standings.

Action Jan. 29 kicked off with Pool America outscoring Slim’s 12-10 behind five goals from Daniel Hampton and three goals from Christopher Klotz. Osvaldo Cabello and Gerardo Urbiola each added two goals, while Keith Mahoney helped preserve the victory with 12 saves.

Edwin Pichardo and Nick Schreiber each scored three goals for Slim’s Place, which also received two goals each from Ted Hurst and Kali Richards. Julian Bejarano finished with six saves in the loss.

The second game of the night saw Sato outscore Solid Rock 11-7 behind five goals from Brandon Rolland and two goals each from Erica Nielsen, Marcelo Rubio and Benjamin Sato. Josh Sato helped preserve the victory with 12 saves.

James Knowles scored five goals for Solid Rock Construction, which also received a goal each from Damir Glavan and James Roadman. Goalie Caleb Arendt helped keep Solid Rock in the game with 20 saves in the loss.

Center flag football shaping up

After two weeks of action in the adult flag football league at the community center, the standings are balanced with Coaster Continent, Reel Coastal Properties and the Fish Guy Aquarium Services on top with 2-0 records. Beach House Real Estate, Salty Printing, Sandbar Restaurant and Solid Rock Construction all have 1-1 records, while Edible Cookie Dough Cafe, Moss Air Conditioning and Slim’s Place are all 0-2.

Action Jan. 29 kicked off with Coaster Continent cruising to a 47-26 victory over Moss Air Conditioning behind five touchdown passes from Matt Manger and a touchdown run and three touchdown catches from Anthony Mannino. Tim Holly added a pair of touchdown grabs and Ramon Guerro IV added one touchdown in the victory.

Jonathan Moss threw four touchdown passes to Noah Hatt to lead Moss Air Conditioning in the loss.

Tuna McCracken threw seven touchdown passes to lead Beach House to a 42-40 victory over Edible Cookie Dough in the second game of the night. Kevin Roman led all players with eight catches, including four touchdown catches. Tyler Brewer had two TDs and Cole Carter finished with one.

Dallas Buchholtz led Edible Cookie Dough with five touchdown passes, including two each to Steven Pavina and Kiatrell Zachary. Megan Mitchell added a touchdown catch to complete the scoring in the loss.

Reel Coastal Properties outscored Salty Printing 36-19 in the third game of the night behind three TD

passes and two rushing TDs from Chase Richardson. Connor Ludwig added two touchdown grabs and a sack for a safety and Evelyn Long fi nished with a touchdown catch in the victory.

Miguel Rodriguez threw for two touchdowns and added a touchdown reception to lead Salty Printing, which also received two TD catches from Rex Kesten and a TD pass from Travis Bates in the loss.

Ryan Moss threw four TD passes to lead Solid Rock Construction to a 29-27 victory over Sandbar in the fourth game of the night. Audrey Guess had a game-high 13 catches, including two TDs, while Jackson Hayes added a TD catch in the win.

Dominick Otteni threw four TD passes to lead Sandbar, which also received two TD catches each from Jaden Grant and David Lopez in the loss.

The last game of the night saw the Fish Guys hold on for a 33-25 victory over Slim’s. Jeremy Cruz Rodriguez threw four TD passes to Christian Hampton in the victory.

Corey Von Borstel threw for two scores and added a TD reception to lead Slim’s Place, which also received two TD catches from Cameron Burke and a TD pass from Sequiel Marintez.

AMI Pitchers beat chills

Two teams emerged from pool play and settled things Jan. 28 in a cool horseshoe playoff at the Anna Maria City Hall pits.

Gary Howcroft and Bob Mason teamed up to defeat Steve Doyle and Bob Lee 23-14 to earn the day’s bragging rights.

The Jan. 31 — cooler still — games also got decided in a playoff as Bob Rowley and Gersey Fernandes cruised to a 22-7 victory over Mason and Del Reese.

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

It’s free to play and everyone is welcome.

Key Royale golfers beat cold temps

Golf action at the Key Royale Club in Holmes

Gary Howcroft and Bob Mason won the Jan. 28 horseshoe games at the Anna Maria City Hall pits while Bob Rowley and Gersey Fernandes captured the Jan. 31 games. Islander

Photo: Courtesy AMI Pitchers

Beach got started Jan. 26 with the men’s weekly modified-Stableford system match. Gary Risner carded a plus-5 to earn the day’s bragging rights in spite of an early chill in the air, finishing a point ahead of secondplace finishers Mark Micho, Bob Paine and Harvey Shovers.

Brian Comer won skins on the second and fourth holes, while Quentin Talbert won one on the third hole and Risner won the seventh hole.

Members were back on the course Jan. 29 for a nine-hole scramble. The team of Tom Darish, Eric and Monica Lawson and Micho combined on a 2-under-par 30 to earn clubhouse bragging rights for the day.

Pirates bound for Bradenton

The Pittsburgh Pirates will be arriving in Bradenton this month for the 2026 Grapefruit League season. The schedule includes a total of 31 games, 16 of which will be played at LECOM Park.

The Pirates will open up their 2026 spring schedule with a trip to Sarasota to take on Baltimore on Feb. 21. Pittsburgh’s home opener will be played on Feb. 22 vs. Tampa Bay.

Additional highlights of the 2026 spring training schedule include:

• Feb. 23: The Pirates will host New York for the only time.

• Feb. 28-March 1: The Pirates will make an overnight trip to the East Coast for games against Houston — Feb. 28 — and St. Louis — March 1— marking their first trip across the state since playing Washington at Viera’s Space Coast Stadium March 2, 2006, and their first overnight trip to the East Coast since playing Montréal March 31-April 1, 2000.

• March 3: The Pirates will host Team Colombia in their fourth all-time matchup against a World Baseball Classic team.

• March 5: The Pirates will welcome St. Louis to Bradenton, marking their first time hosting the Cardinals for a spring training game since March 29, 1998.

• March 17: The Pirates will host Houston in Bradenton for the first time since March 6, 2016.

• March 23: The Pirates will host Atlanta at LECOM Park in the Grapefruit League finale.

— Lisa Neff

By Lisa Neff

Red tide work continues

If you’ve ever walked the beach gasping for air during a red tide bloom, scientists might want to hear from you.

The Roskamp Institute in Sarasota is recruiting volunteers for a four-year study examining whether Florida’s red tide causes lasting neurological damage.

Researchers want to understand why some coastal residents develop respiratory distress while others remain unaffected by the same toxic exposure.

Florida red tide is caused by Karenia brevis , a microscopic marine algae that produces brevetoxin — a naturally occurring potent neurotoxin that at times has devastated marine and bird life along the Gulf Coast and impacts people. When the algae bloom in high concentrations, they release airborne toxins that trigger runny noses, puffy eyes, irritated throats and respiratory problems. Ingesting contaminated shellfish can cause gastrointestinal distress.

While red tide’s immediate respiratory effects are well documented, its potential brain impact still needs comprehensive study.

The Roskamp Institute specializes in neurological research, particularly dementias linked to inflammation. Now they’re applying that expertise to brevetoxin.

Researchers in the Red Tide Project will compare blood toxin levels between coastal and inland residents, tracking how brevetoxin enters the body, how long it persists and how it’s eliminated. The study also will examine a genetic factor that may make some individuals more susceptible.

Study participants — aged 18 and older — will wear personal air monitors, provide biological samples, complete health surveys and return for checkups during blooms and clear periods.

They could help Roskamp understand red tide’s full health impact, shaping safety guidelines for coastal communities throughout the area.

For more information

Healthy aging Roskamp recently received a $15,000 grant from the Bishop-Parker Foundation to support a healthy aging initiative in which Manatee County residents ages 55 and older will test the institute’s brain health assessment tool.

For more info about the study and the institute, go to roskampinstitute.org or call 941-256-8019.

Recycle, reuse, reduce

Manatee County staff and contractors with Clean Harbors Environmental Services assist people with unloading household hazardous waste and electronics during a county-led collection event Jan. 31 at Coquina Beach in Bradenton Beach. The annual event allows people to safely dispose of materials that cannot be placed in their home waste. Islander Photos: Robert Anderson

Shark Guard tested

Mote Marine Laboratory scientists have published new research demonstrating that an electronic pulse device can deter and delay sharks from taking fish off fishing lines, which could help reduce shark depredation, the loss of catch or gear to marine animal encounters. The device, called Shark Guard and manufactured by FiskTek Marine, emits electrical pulses that overstimulate sharks’ electroreceptors, delaying or deterring feeding behavior and showing strong potential to mitigate shark depredation.

Islander Courtesy Photo

Regional drought conditions lead to watering restrictions

The Southwest Florida Water Management District Governing Board has declared a Modified Phase II “Severe” Water Shortage due to ongoing dry conditions across the region.

As a result, Swiftmud set one-day-per-week outdoor watering restrictions beginning Feb. 8 and continuing through July 1 for the area.

Because outdoor irrigation can account for more than 50% of household water use, residents should follow their local watering schedules. In Manatee County, the standard one-day-per-week schedule is based on street addresses:

• Addresses ending in 0 or 1: Monday

• Addresses ending in 2 or 3: Tuesday

• Addresses ending in 4 or 5: Wednesday

• Addresses ending in 6 or 7: Thursday

• Addresses ending in 8 or 9, and locations without a discernible address: Friday

Properties under two acres can water only before 8 a.m. or after 6 p.m.

Properties two acres or larger can water only before 10 a.m. or after 4 p.m.

Low-volume irrigation — micro-irrigation, soaker hoses, and hand watering— is allowed any day and time.

— Lisa Neff

Chamber lunch set

The Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce will host its monthly networking luncheon Thursday, Feb. 12.

The event will be 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. at the Daiquiri Deck, 107 Bridge St., Bradenton Beach.

The gathering will offer chamber members and prospective members an opportunity to connect over a meal.

Menu options include a grilled chicken Caesar wrap with fried plantains, blackened mahi tacos, crab cake BLT with fries, and a veggie bowl.

Lunch is $22 for chamber members and $30 for prospective members.

RSVPs are requested by Tuesday, Feb. 10.

For more information or to RSVP, contact Amber Tipton at amber@amichamber.org or 941-778-1541.

— Lisa Neff

Out & about

Vacationing on, about AMI?

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

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

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

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

Whether it’s a sunset dinner, a beach stroll or a smiling souvenir stop, share your memories and be part of the island story.

Thank you for sharing your island moments.

— Lisa Neff

Chamber hosts orientation

The Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce will hold a member orientation and networking event at 4 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 10, at the chamber office, 5313 Gulf Drive N., Holmes Beach.

The event offers an opportunity for members and prospective members to meet chamber representatives, learn about available business resources and discover how the chamber can help promote and grow their businesses.

For reservations, call 941-778-1541.

Break from Boston

Elizabeth Lapointe of Boston gets some sun at the beach in late January. Her sister, Kate Eglee — who winters on AMI from Cape Cod, Massachusetts — sent the photo to news@islander.org and wrote that Lapointe “arrived just ahead of the storm. I’ve titled this picture: ‘Toto, I don’t think we’re in Boston anymore.’” The photo was taken near the 69th Street access in Holmes Beach. Islander Courtesy Photo

Ripping up plumbing for clean H2O

Wes Farney, left, water treatment specialist, and James Vanfossen, right, known to friends and clients as “Rip,” install a water treatment system on AMI. Vanfossen, who started with Waterbird Home Solutions at the first of the year, is putting 23 years of plumbing experience to work He has lived on AMI most of his live and his experience with plumbing includes work for many island bars and restaurants. Vanfossen brings solutions for emergency plumbing services and backflow testing to Waterbird. The business has locations in Ohio, as well as in Holmes Beach at 315 58th St., Unit J. For more info, visit getwaterbird.com or call 941-280-5856. Islander Courtesy Photo

LBK Chamber hosts Thailand trip orientation

The Longboat Key Chamber of Commerce will host an information session Wednesday, Feb. 11, to preview an October cultural adventure to Thailand.

The orientation meeting, scheduled for 6 p.m. via Zoom, will provide details about the 10-day trip, which is departing Oct 22.

The package, priced at $4,299 per person, includes flight and hotel booking, guided tours, daily breakfast, three lunches and four dinners.

Interested travelers must RSVP by Tuesday, Feb. 10, to secure their spot at the informational session.

For more information, contact Jet Vacations at 770-776-7585 or go to jetvacations.com.

— Lisa Neff

Please, present this coupon at time of acceptance of WCAC proposal.

AN ISLAND SPECIAL:

Any current proposal, dated within 30 days of Jan. 1, 2026, will be reduced by $500 with presentation of this coupon. This includes all new proposals for replacement of your AC and heating equipment. Call us for more details.

Manatee Chamber to host annual dinner

The Manatee Chamber of Commerce will bring together more than 500 business and community leaders for its 63rd Annual Dinner Thursday, Feb. 12, at the Bradenton Area Convention Center.

The signature evening event will feature a cocktail reception and silent auction beginning at 5 p.m., followed by dinner and a program at 6:30 p.m.

The gathering celebrates achievements across Manatee County’s business community while recognizing outstanding leadership shaping the region’s future.

This year’s dinner will include the presentation of the Ninth Annual Robert P. Bartz Award for Outstanding Leadership, honoring an individual whose vision and commitment reflect the legacy of the late Bob Bartz.

The event takes place at the Bradenton Area Convention Center, 1 Haben Blvd., Palmetto.

For more information, including tickets, contact the chamber at 941-748-3411.

— Lisa Neff

Business news

The Islander welcomes business news, including announcements of operational changes, expansions, achievements, openings, special events and more

Please, email news@islander.org with notices and a contact name and phone number.

Feed the Peeps Art & Craft Show moves to Bayfront Park

The annual Feed the Peeps Art & Craft Show returns to Anna Maria Island’s north end with a new waterfront location and continued support for the Roser Food Pantry.

The event will take place 10 a.m.-5 p.m. FridaySaturday, Feb. 6-7, at Bayfront Park, 316 N. Bay Blvd., Anna Maria.

The boutique event will combine handmade crafts and original art with a food drive for the Roser Food Pantry, 511 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, the only

IslBizCal

Thursday, Feb. 5

THIS WEEK

8 a.m. — Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce breakfast, Harry’s Grill, 9807 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria. Fee applies. Info: 941778-1541.

SAVE THE DATES

• Feb. 12, 6:30 p.m., Manatee Chamber of Commerce’s awards dinner, Bradenton Area Convention Center, Palmetto.

• Feb. 12, 11:30 a.m., Anna Maria Island Chamber luncheon, Daiquiri Deck, Bradenton Beach.

• Feb. 20, 5 p.m., Ribbon-cutting at Island Cabinets and Design grand opening, Holmes Beach.

island-based resource for locals facing food insecurity. The pantry distributes more than 100 bags of groceries monthly to people in need.

For this reason, crafts show visitors are encouraged to bring nonperishable items — like cans of soup and jars of jam and peanut butter.

Featured vendors will include metalsmith Shawn Graham, who creates hand-fabricated jewelry using traditional techniques and custom-made stamps, and Michele Fuentes of Goddess Goodies, offering handcrafted teas, herbal blends, and a popular cooling salve for sun relief.

The show features painters, fiber artists, pottery, beach bags, patio chairs, yard art, bath and body products, skincare items, beach hats and other original creations.

Admission is free.

Artists and crafters interested in participating can still apply at blueribbonevent.com.

For more information about the event, contact Danielle Lynch, CEO of Blue Ribbon Events, at 231350-8277.

— Lisa Neff

MarketWatch

Anna Maria

Median listing home price: $3.499 million, trending down 1.67% over one year, down 9.94% over three years.

Listings: 92 properties.

Bradenton Beach

Median listing home price: $1,322,000, trending up 46.9% over one year, up 26.19% over three years.

Listings: 87 properties.

Holmes Beach

Median listing home price: $1,435,000, up 13.72% over one year, down 26.35% over three years.

Listings: 211 properties.

Source: Realtor.com

ITEMS FOR SALE

ICE CREAM MAKER: Cuisinart, $50, tabletop grill, green pan, $90, Tigerxbang oar/paddle, $45. 941-920-2494.

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

FREEBIE ITEMS FOR SALE

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

ANNOUNCEMENTS

BRDIGE GAMES AT Roser Church each Friday. Starting 12:30 p.m., Feb 6. 512 Pine 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 CART RENTALS: Fun for residents and tourists! 941-213-5730. www.annamariacartrentals.com

LOOKING FOR AN EARLY BIRD? You can read Wednesday’s classifieds on Tuesday at islander.org. And it’s FREE!

BOATS & BOATING

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

SUNCOAST BOTTOM PAINTING: Professional bottom painting. Mobile. Call 941-7049382.

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

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

FOR SALE: FOUR place galvanized kayak trailer, three used kayaks with paddles and life jackets. $500. 231-282-0027.

LOOKING FOR BOAT rentals in Bradenton or Anna Maria Island? Manatee River Boat Rentals & Water Sports provides well-maintained boats with direct access to the Manatee River, Anna Maria Island and Egmont Key. Reserve online at https://manateeriverwatersports.com/ or call/text 941-932-3700.

HELP WANTED

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

KIDS FOR HIRE

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

HEALTH CARE

RETIRED SEASONAL RN with over 20 years’ experience. Can help with your family members or your skilled needs. Please contact me for further inquiries, 973-819-2824.

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. 941-5653931.

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

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

PC OR TECH 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

SERVICES Continued

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

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

LOOK NO MORE! Residential, vacation rental and commercial cleaning. Give us a call, 941-250-8548.

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.

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

ACHAUFFER4U FOR TRANSPORTATION anywhere in Florida. Properly insured and over 40 years in Bradenton. Dennis, 941812-5930.

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

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

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

SERVICES Continued

CLEANING SERVICES: 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 330-8065919.

PET SITTING: PRIVATE fenced home, walk to DeSoto and Robinson Preserve. Cookie, 914-610-5582.

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

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

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

LAWN & GARDEN

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

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

HOME IMPROVEMENT

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

GRIFFIN’S HOME IMPROVEMENTS 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 PERKINS PAINTING LLC. Interior/exterior/pressure washing. Island references. dperkinspaint@hotmail.com. 941705-7096.

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

MORE BANG FOR YOUR BUCK? It’s an old saying, but it’s still true when it comes to The Islander. Look for more online at islander. org.

SERVICES Continued

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.

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

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

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

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

RENTALS

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

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

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

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

WINTER WEEKS AVAILABLE: 6505 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. Call Lisa, 267-5668577. www.gulfbeachbungalows.com

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

WANTING TO RENT a parking space. Do you have an extra parking space? In a driveway, condo or open parking lot? Looking for some additional income? We are looking to rent a parking space for several months, a year. We live in Bradenton and want to come to the island frequently. Not looking for overnight, would be a Jeep or Chevy Colorado. Closer to the beach the better. 937-231-3524.

REAL ESTATE

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

BEST ISLAND DEAL! 1BR/1BA trailer, takeover remodel. Sandpiper Resort $69,499. Retirement, annual, seasonal income. 831212-2606.

NEED REAL ESTATE help? Call me direct. 35 years selling the islands and more. Fred Flis, Real Estate Mart owner. 941-356-1456.

REDUCED $10,000. TOTALLY, nicely furnished 2BR/2BA updated condo. Minutes to beach and shopping. Now $239,000 or best offer. Very motivated seller. Call agent direct, Real Estate Mart, 941-356-1456.