The Islander Newspaper E-Edition Wednesday, Jan, 21, 2026

Bingo!

Game night returns to Annie Silver center Brian Lawler of Reston, Virginia, holds up his prize and winning card Jan. 15 at bingo night at the Annie Silver Community Center, 103 23rd St. N., Bradenton Beach. Islander

Photos: Robert Anderson

Annie Silver Community Center board member Jim Hassett calls a bingo game during the first bingo night of the 2026 winter-spring season Jan. 15. Bingo is held Thursdays at 6 p.m., with pizza, desserts and other refreshments available. The center is at 103 23rd St. N., Bradenton Beach.

BBPO to reopen Jan. 20

The Bradenton Beach Post Office, pictured in 2016, will hold a soft opening Tuesday, Jan. 20, after its closure from 2024’s hurricane damages, according to Bradenton Beach Postmaster Clyde Chappelle. The post office initially will offer mail and package drop-off and pickup services, with package pickup 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Friday. Window services, including postage sales and other financial transactions, remain unavailable. Customers also can visit the Bradenton Beach Post Office for address changes, mail holds and general inquiries. Full services will be restored at a later date. The office serves both Bradenton Beach and Holmes Beach with home delivery from its facility at 116 Bridge St. Islander File Photo

Cruise port proposed near Rattlesnake Key, Terra Ceia

By Robert Anderson Islander Reporter

A proposed cruise port in Manatee County is now publicly tied to the recent sale of Rattlesnake Key, a shallow island system between Tampa and Terra Ceia bays.

SSA Marine, a Seattle-based global port and marine terminal operator, recently launched a website outlining plans to explore development of a multi-berth cruise terminal on the Knott-Cowen tract immediately south of the Sunshine Skyway Bridge on the Manatee County side.

According to the website, the loca-

tion is being considered to accommodate larger, modern cruise ships that cannot pass beneath the Skyway span.

SSA Marine cruise division president Stefano Borzone, in an opinion piece posted Jan. 16 at bradenton.com, said the project is intended to balance growth in the cruise industry with environmental protection.

“West Central Florida has long been a gateway to the world for commerce, tourism, and the communities that depend on both,” Borzone wrote.

He said SSA Marine recently acquired the Rattlesnake Key property through its subsidiary, Rattlesnake Key

Preservation Co., citing conservation as the purpose of the purchase.

“Our intent in purchasing the property is to remove any possibility of private commercialization and ensure its conservation,” Borzone wrote in the opinion piece. “There will be no commercial development or construction on Rattlesnake Key.”

He estimated construction of the proposed port at the Knott-Cowen tract and related activity would boost labor earnings by about $1.6 billion.

Manatee County Clerk of Circuit Court records show Rattlesnake Key and the surrounding submerged lands

were conveyed Oct. 30, 2025, for $18 million in a special warranty deed that includes public-trust exceptions that preserve access to navigable waters. On the project website, knottcowencruise.com, developers describe the cruise terminal as privately financed and estimate it would support more than 13,000 direct, indirect and induced jobs and generate about $40 million annually in tax revenue for Manatee County and the School District of Manatee. Those figures have not been independently verified.

County Commission Chair Tal Sid-

Perico Island residents call for safety, hunting buffer

By Robert Anderson Islander Reporter

Sounds of gunfire are setting off alarms for shoreline residents.

Residents of Perico Bay Club and others in the coastal community are urging state wildlife officials to establish clearer safety buffers between residential developments and hunters who legally use nearshore state waters.

Residents are citing concerns about proximity, safety and noise during hunting season.

Paul Leppanen, a Perico Bay Club resident and member of the community’s security committee, said residents want limits on how close hunters can operate near shared recreational areas.

“We don’t want to stop the hunting,” Leppanen said. “We know they have a right. What we want is a buffer — a cone or an umbrella — around our

property.”

Perico Bay Club and some nearby communities, including Perico Island and Harbor Isle, began formally raising concerns around 2019 after residents reported repeated predawn gunfire near walking paths and waterfront areas near their homes. Leppanen said the combined communities represent more than 1,500 households.

The issue resurfaced Jan. 3 after a resident walking on a boardwalk near Spoonbill Bayou encountered several waterfowl hunters positioned close to the structure.

According to a letter provided to the community board, a resident was nearby when a hunter discharged a shotgun, prompting another hunter to admonish him. The resident reported feeling unsafe and left the area.

Local leaders outline priorities at State of the Cities

By Robert anderson Islander Reporter

Local mayors used the Manatee Chamber of Commerce’s 2026 Headliners Luncheon: State of the Cities event Jan. 14 to call for stronger home rule, continued infrastructure funding and broader cooperation on water quality and storm resiliency.

The forum at IMG Academy Golf Club, 4350 El Conquistador Parkway, Bradenton, brought together leaders from Bradenton, Holmes Beach, Longboat Key and Palmetto for prepared remarks followed by a question-and-answer session with chamber members.

Holmes Beach Mayor Judy Titsworth reflected on the city’s growth, from a community of 65 residents at incorporation in 1950 to a city with more than $3.2 billion in property value in 2026.

She credited longstanding height and density limits with preserving the city’s character while supporting tourism.

“Holmes Beach now generates roughly 25% of Manatee County’s tourist development tax revenue,” Titsworth said.

Referring to height and density restrictions, she added, “Those choices matter. They are why Holmes Beach remains one of the most treasured coastal destinations in Florida.”

Titsworth spoke on other issues, including resiliency and environmental problems.

She highlighted the city’s Class 5 Community Rating System flood rating, saving residents 25% on flood insurance, along with the expansion of digital permitting services and storm-resilient infrastructure investments.

Regarding concerns, the mayor cited seagrass loss in Tampa Bay between 2020 and 2022 and the ongoing recovery of Sarasota Bay.

“These ecosystems are not just environmental assets,” she said. “They are economic infrastructure.”

Longboat Key Mayor Ken Schneier, who is near-

addresses the audience at the Manatee Chamber of Commerce’s State of the Cities luncheon, as Bradenton, Longboat Key and Palmetto mayors listen. Islander

ing the end of his final term, emphasized storm recovery, resiliency projects and the importance of protecting home rule authority.

Schneier said state legislative actions have reduced the town’s ability to address neighborhood -level concerns.

“Local government knows what people are feeling,” he said. “That’s where quality-of-life decisions are made.”

Schneier highlighted Longboat Key’s completion of a utilities undergrounding project, development of a town center park and library and regional collaboration to secure federal funding for flood mitigation at St. Armands Key.

Holmes Beach resolves to fight offshore drilling

By Ryan Paice Islander Reporter

One Anna Maria Island city is speaking out against plans for offshore drilling.

Holmes Beach city commissioners unanimously voted Jan. 13 to adopt a resolution opposing offshore oil and gas drilling in the eastern Gulf of Mexico. Last fall, the Trump administration announced a new federal offshore drilling plan that would allow for new oil drilling in federal waters — including waters off of Florida’s west coast.

Those waters have been federally protected from drilling since 1995 due to concerns about oil spills.

The same concerns persist today and have resulted in widespread pushback on the state and local levels.

That includes a letter sent in December from Florida’s congressional delegation to the Trump administration expressing opposition to the proposed expansion of offshore drilling.

City Commissioner Terry Schaefer, the board’s legislative liaison, presented the proposed resolution. He said the resolution supported the action the congressional delegation has taken and was intended to raise public awareness about the issue.

Schaefer added that the resolution would be shared with the other two island cities and the ManaSota League of Cities to further spread the word.

Commissioner Steve Oelfke moved to adopt the resolution.

Commissioner Jessica Patel seconded the motion, which passed.

There was no public comment.

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

Bradenton Beach delays Ward 4 commission appointment

By Robert anderson Islander Reporter

Bradenton Beach seeks to fill a seat on the dais.

City commissioners reviewed the process Jan. 15 for filling the vacant Ward 4 seat and postponed any nomination until February, citing limited information and lack of applicants.

The city charter requires a step-by-step appointment process: The city solicits applicants, in this case to fill the Ward 4 seat held by Jan Vosburgh. Commissioners then may nominate and vote to appoint a candidate for the seat. If no nomination is made, the commission considers additional Ward 4 applications at a second meeting. The vacancy opens to at-large applicants if there’s still no nomination, followed by additional meetings. If there’s still no appointment, the charter calls for the city clerk to draw lots from a pool of applicants.

The commission, as of Jan. 15, received an application from Ward 4 resident Robert Talham, who did not attend the meeting. Commissioners then raised concerns about Talham’s availability and commitment.

Commissioners directed staff to schedule a discussion on the vacancy at 6 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 5, at

CITIES COnTInUED FROM PaGE 2

Looking ahead, Schneier said the town plans to dredge canals for the first time in two decades.

Bradenton Mayor Gene Brown focused on infrastructure investments, including more than $100 million in water and wastewater upgrades under the city’s “Face It, Fix It” initiative.

He said Bradenton has relied heavily on state and federal funding to address systems overwhelmed during major storms.

“We could never have taxed our way out of the situation we’re in,” Brown said, describing treatment capacity challenges during the 2024 hurricane season.

Bradenton Beach City Hall, 107 Gulf Drive N.

A discussion also can be expected this year on the ward system.

Mayor John Chappie encouraged commissioners to consider whether the ward structure remains viable.

As of Dec. 5, 2025, Ward 4 had 91 registered

voters, according to the Manatee County Supervisor of Elections. Ward 1 had 136 voters, Ward 2 had 118 and Ward 3 had 139.

“I like the wards,” Chappie said. “But things have changed. We don’t have the population we had years ago with 1,400 people.”

During a question-and-answer session, Brown also addressed concerns regarding bacterial contamination in north Palma Sola Bay.

He said a study conducted through the Sarasota Bay Estuary Program found that horse-related impacts accounted for a small fraction of measured contamination and pollution sources are varied. Stormwater runoff, wildlife, fertilizer and limited water circulation all contribute to water quality issues.

Brown said potential improvements to water circulation in Palma Sola Bay could be decades away, noting the state has estimated some projects may be 30 years out.

Pier pilings work nears completion

Tampa Bay Marine’s barge moves closer to shore Jan. 13 as the contractor drives the remaining pilings for the anna Maria City Pier walkway. Mayor Mark Short told The Islander Jan. 15 that inclement weather had slowed TBM’s progress on the walkway rebuild, but the final pilings were expected to be driven over the next couple of weeks.

Town hall set on AMCP T-end

The city of Anna Maria is inviting residents to weigh in on best options for the T-end of the Anna Maria City Pier at an upcoming town hall meeting.

The forum will be at 1 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 27, at city hall, 10005 Gulf Drive. For more information, contact the city at 941-708-6130.

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Holmes Beach officials discuss dog park improvements

By Ryan Paice Islander Reporter

A Holmes Beach City Commission work session was held to collect public input on the city’s dog park.

But it mostly boiled down to a debate on the dais.

Only one attendee, resident Renee Ferguson, spoke during public comment at the Jan. 13 work session, which Commission Chair Carol Whitmore called to gather feedback from users of the dog park, located on the north side of city field.

The park features separate spaces for large and small dogs, provides drinking water, a wash-off area, as well as shade structures and benches. However, several park users have criticized the condition of the park and called for improvements.

The matter was recently discussed during a Jan. 7 Parks & Beautification Committee meeting, where attendees voiced their wishes for the park, including planting new grass, moving benches together, laying paver paths, planting shade trees and regrading a concrete pad at the west gate.

In response, Mayor Judy Titsworth promised improvements despite budgetary constraints.

City staff created a graphic based on an overhead image of the park to lay out the municipality’s improvement plans. Those plans involve resodding now that a new irrigation system has been installed, planting a pair of shady lady trees, six cabbage palms and a new bench, as well as reroofing and adding electricity to two covered dugouts.

City engineer and public works director Herb Raybourn announced at the Jan. 13 work session that the municipality would be able to resod the entire park — more than originally planned — thanks to a $5,000 donation. He added that work resodding the fields had already begun.

Titsworth said the city would laminate a map of its improvement plans and post it at the park for its users to see.

Commissioner Steve Oelfke said he believed the city was moving in the right direction.

Commissioner Jessica Patel asked if the city could procure larger trees, since the shady lady trees it plans to plant will take time to mature.

Titsworth said staff is searching for the largest trees it can afford. Nevertheless, she said they might need to wait until the end of fiscal 2025-26 to determine if the municipality has sufficient contingency funding to plant more trees.

Ferguson, who spoke at the end of the work session, offered to pay the difference for larger trees.

“We do need bigger trees,” she said. “I’m not going to be alive when these little twigs are ready to give shade.”

She added that the park is important to many dogowning islanders and thanked the city for bringing the matter forward for discussion.

In other matters…

Other notable items at the Jan. 13 meeting included:

• Opposition to a proposed Gulf Islands Ferry stop near the Waterline Villas & Marina, alleging safety issues, congestion concerns and zoning conflicts.

Whitmore expressed support for the proposed ferry stop and floated the idea of adding another trolley stop in the area.

• Commissioners unanimously voted to approve the first reading of an ordinance revising the municipality’s definition of substantial damage in accordance with state law;

• City commissioners unanimously voted to approve the first reading of an ordinance to extend the time frame to rebuild a nonconforming use/structure from 365 days to 18 months.

a map shows improvements planned at the dog park at city field. However, there have been some changes: one shady lady tree will be planted on the park’s south side and more field will be resodded thanks to a $5,000 donation. Islander

Graphic: Courtesy HB

commission will meet next at 2 p.m. Tuesday,

Leppanen said waterfowl hunting has occurred in the area since before the condominiums were built in the mid-1980s but increasing shoreline development and recreational use have narrowed the margin for safety.

Most reported encounters between hunters and Perico Bay residents have occurred at a footbridge owned by the Perico Bay Club that provides access to shallows known as Spoonbill Bayou, located about 100 yards from the nearest occupied residence.

“The boardwalk extends out into the bayou,” he said. “People go there to sit, watch birds and enjoy the water. In some cases, hunters are positioned close enough that someone could be in their line of fire.”

Under state law, regulation of hunting falls under the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. The Florida Administrative Code governing migratory bird and waterfowl hunting establishes season dates, bag limits and legal methods of take but does not tackle the larger issue of setting uniform minimum distances for hunters to maintain from residential structures. The code allows waterfowl hunting on publicly accessible state waters during established seasons unless a site-specific closure or restricted hunting area has been formally adopted by the state.

Leppanen said residents have raised the issue repeatedly with the FWC and Manatee County government over several years but have not received a resolution.

an aerial image of Spoonbill Bayou near Perico Island depicts the community footpath and boardwalk extending from the Perico Bay Club area into the bayou, with a red circle indicating the location where residents say waterfowl hunters have been observed operating. Islander Image: Courtesy Vexcel Imaging US.

According to Leppanen, the FWC has acknowledged safety concerns, discussed the concept of buffer zones and referenced proposed rule language circulated in 2021 that suggested a 300-foot setback based on the effective range of birdshot, but no such rule was adopted and no timeline for action was provided.

He said county officials deferred authority to the state, telling residents that hunting regulations fall under the FWC.

Similar concerns have surfaced in other Florida communities. In St. Petersburg, residents along Lake Maggiore raised safety complaints in 2024 about wintertime duck hunting near homes. Homeowners near Lake Parker in Lakeland voiced similar concerns in 2022 and again in 2024. And in Pinellas County in early 2024, police confirmed that waterfowl hunters reported near residential shorelines in Indian Shores and Redington Shores were acting legally, highlighting ongoing tension between shoreline developments and traditional hunting activity.

“This issue goes quiet for a while, then it comes back,” Leppanen said. “All we’re asking for is a reasonable safety zone so people can enjoy their community without fear.”

Duck and goose hunting seasons run through late January, according to state regulations.

The Islander reached out to the FWC for comment by email Jan. 12, but as of Islander press time Jan. 19, the FWC had not responded.

Bradenton Beach, FEMA in dispute over reimbursements

By Robert anderson Islander Reporter

More than a year after hurricanes Helene and Milton bore down on Anna Maria Island with a 3-4 foot storm surge and 80 mph winds, Bradenton Beach is still waiting on FEMA reimbursements for repairs, with city officials disputing federal cost estimates far lower than contractor repair estimates.

Police Chief John Cosby, who serves as public works director and emergency management chief, told city commissioners Jan. 15 that FEMA is challenging 14 reimbursement projects tied to damages from Helene and Milton. Six projects were denied and are headed to appeal and eight others were being resubmitted through an “errors and omissions” process that allows FEMA applicants to correct or clarify documentation and scope of work.

The city is awaiting more than $1 million in FEMA reimbursements. Of that amount, Cosby said $500,000 remains in dispute, while the remainder has been obligated and is moving through the payment process, which involves the state.

Most of the disputed projects involve roadway repairs, particularly on side streets damaged by storm surge. Cosby cited 11th Street South as an example. The city submitted a repair estimate of about $102,000 but FEMA later reassessed the work at roughly $13,000.

Cosby said the city had little clarity on the qualifications of FEMA personnel who assessed the costs.

He also said FEMA’s estimates fail to reflect construction standards required in coastal communities. For instance, he said, typical roadways might use a 12-inch base compacted to 8 inches, but island roadways require a 16-inch base compacted to 12 inches

HB CWC offering free ‘good shopping bags’

By Ryan Paice Islander Reporter

Islanders 4 Clean Water reusable shopping bags are here.

So how can people get their hands on them?

Holmes Beach Clean Water Ad Hoc Committee members laid out plans Jan. 14 for distributing the bags across Anna Maria Island and Longboat Key.

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

The board voted last November to budget $5,000 for 2,000 bags with Islanders 4 Clean Water branding and a message against plastics. Half the bags are printed with “AMI” on the back, while the remainder are intended for “off-island” distribution

The bags are about the size of a grocery bag and fold to fit in a pocket.

RATTLESNAKE KEY COnTInUED FROM PaGE 1

dique, R-District 3, told The Islander Jan. 16 that his first exposure to the port proposal came from reporters seeking comment.

He said the proposal remained conceptual and that as of Jan. 16 no development applications related to a cruise terminal or the Knott-Cowen tract were submitted to the county.

“Our staff, to my knowledge, don’t have any application today for any kind of redevelopment, so we’re kind of learning in real time,” Siddique said.

He said the county’s land development code and comprehensive plan might not specifically anticipate a new cruise terminal.

“There’s a lot of unknowns right now,” he said.

Siddique also said a project of the scale proposed would likely involve state and federal agency reviews.

“You don’t really see ports pop up every day,” Siddique said. “These are more like once-in-a-generation

Plan now for season!

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CWC Chair Jennifer Miller told The Islander Jan. 16 that she is happy with how the bags turned out. “They’re good shopping bags,” she said. “Great to go to the store with.”

Despite previous discussion about selling them to recoup costs, CWC members agreed Jan. 14 they would distribute free bags and collect donations toward the purchase of additional bags.

They also agreed to divvy up the distribution.

CWC member Bill Romberger was set to take a batch of bags to the Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce, 5313 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, where they will be handed out.

CWC member Charlie Mopps, the town of Longboat Key’s public works director, will distribute bags to the Longboat Key Chamber of Commerce, 5390 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Suite 102.

He also said the bags would be given to enrollees of the town’s Citizens Academy, which will run Wednesdays Jan. 14-Feb. 25 at Longboat Key Town

type efforts.”

According to the project website, the proposal remains in the early planning phase and would be subject to zoning changes and other local, state and federal approvals.

Developers say public engagement would include hearings before the county planning commission and the county board of commissioners, along with environmental reviews and opportunities for public input.

Efforts by Manatee County and the state to acquire Rattlesnake Key for a public preserve collapsed in 2023 after a gap developed between state-certifi ed appraisals and the owner’s asking price.

Legislative appropriations aimed at securing the property were redirected after the deal failed.

Rattlesnake Key remains one of the most intact natural landscapes at the mouth of Tampa Bay, supporting expansive mangrove forests, fish nursery habi-

because of saltwater exposure and soil conditions.

Additional disputes involve street ends at the city’s north end along Gulf Drive, which FEMA initially classified as parking areas. Cosby said the city has provided surveys dating to 2017 showing roads.

The reimbursement delays have placed pressure on finances. Cosby said the city used about 70% of its reserves to recover from the 2024 storms and now sits below its target reserve level of $2.3 million.

While the city works to rebuild reserves, Cosby said Bradenton Beach does have access to a $5 million line of credit secured after the 2024 storm season that has not been used.

Also, Cosby said redevelopment and tax revenues are expected to rebound, but more slowly than anticipated, as some property owners continue to negotiate insurance claims and contractor shortages persist.

Hall, 501 Bay Isles Road.

CWC member Scott MacGregor will take bags to the Anna Maria Community Farmers Market, which runs 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Tuesdays through April at Roser Memorial Community Church,

512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria.

He also was set to reach out to a few Anna Maria businesses to determine if they would distribute the bags.

CWC member Mike Pritchett said he would reach out to the Episcopal Church of the Annunciation, 4408 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, about giving out free bags.

CWC members also expressed interest in distributing the bags at the Cortez Commercial Fishing Festival Feb. 14-15 in Cortez.

The next CWC meeting will be at 9 a.m. Wednesday, Feb. 11, at city hall, 5801 Marina Drive.

tats, bird rookeries and shallow-water wetlands. As the port proposal moves toward potential review, regulatory and policy decisions could shape its future.

For more information

For more about the Knott-Cowen Cruise Port concept, go to knottcowencruise.com.

The site contains information from SSa Marine about “exploring the development of a modern cruise port in Manatee County, adjacent to the Sunshine Skyway Bridge.”

The site also contains FaQs about the concept, including “what is this project and where will it be located?”

The site also speaks to the approval process, local impact, environmental matters and the reasons for purchasing Rattlesnake Key.

Stay tuned to islander.org for updates.

Red flags on horizon

If you think we have problems in Palma Sola Bay with horses and water pollution, think again.

It is not — and I repeat for those stubborn folks who insist otherwise — it is not the horses.

Water testing has proven otherwise, finding one such culprit is grass clippings from lawns, parks and golf courses, along with fertilizer and pesticide runoff, that contribute to pollution in Palma Sola Bay north.

And a simple solution that can make a positive impact in the short run is aeration. Yep. Fountains. And they’re not so bad to look at either.

But when it comes to pollution, you ain’t seen nothing yet.

The news about a proposed cruise ship port in Manatee County spread like butter on a hot skillet.

And talk is spreading wide about the degradation of the fishing grounds at Rattlesnake Key, adjacent to the 328-acres (three times the acreage of the Magic Kingdom) where the port is proposed — known as the Knott-Cowen tract — of which we know very little.

The Knott-Cowen tract is east of Rattlesnake Key, which intertwines with surrounding islands in some aerial photos. It also abuts the west side of the U.S. 19 approach in Manatee County to the Sunshine Skyway Bridge and the South Skyway Fishing Pier.

It also adjoins the Terra Ceia Aquatic Preserve and Terra Ceia Bay.

The proposed port is adjacent to the prime fishing grounds at Rattlesnake Key and shallow bottom-area surrounding it. And the announcement of the $18 million sale came first without a hint of the port deal, just news with a promise to preserve Rattlesnake Key.

Some folks were putting their chips on the application of Rattlesnake as a mitigation bank — where credits for mangrove destruction sell for thousands by the acre. We could almost see the owners raking in a return on their cost.

It seems evident now — if the port deal progresses and the mangroves that protect the shoreline are to be destroyed to make way for huge ships (8,000 passengers) that will put into the berths.

But while you’re enjoying your morning coffee, try to soak up the news from Key West and the impacts of cruise ships.. According to reporting from NPR in Key West, one cruise ship stirs up as much sediment as a hurricane — exceeding EPA standards by more than three times. And that doesn’t begin to approach the impacts.

About five years ago, Key West tried to ban cruise ships, but lost its battle for home rule to the state.

And there go the red flags.

More to come on this … for sure.

— Bonner Joy, news@islander.org

P.S. Where will 8,000 passengers and crew bed down and park pre-departure and return?

OpinionYour

We did it

Thanks to your incredible generosity, the Center of Anna Maria Island has reached our $150,000 Pathway of Light goal, a powerful reflection of what is possible when our community comes together.

Because of you, the center can continue moving forward. Additional gifts help support capital improvements that invest in the center’s future, strengthening the spaces and programs that serve our community every day.

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Skimming online

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Bonner Joy, news@islander.org

▼ Editorial Robert anderson, robert@islander.org

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Jack Elka, jack@jackelka.com

Lisa neff, lisa@islander.org

Ryan Paice, ryan@islander.org

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Jacob Merrifield

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Sean Murphy

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Our Pathway of Light continues to shine brighter with every gift. If you have not yet had a chance to give, you are still invited to add your light and be part of this meaningful momentum as we step into the new year together.

All others: info@islander.org

As we look ahead, legacy and endowment giving play a vital role in sustaining the center’s mission for generations to come.

To learn more about how you can leave a lasting legacy, please visit https://centerami.org/legacy.

You can also make a gift online or stop by the front desk at the center, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria.

Jillian Ptak, center director of development

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.

When does “Season” begin on AMI? A. Mid-fall B. Mid-February

C. March 1

D. Never ends

To answer the poll, go to islander.org.

Last issue’s poll results

Have you taken a ride on the Gulf Islands Ferry between AMI and Bradenton?

• Not yet. 52%

• Not interested. 27%

• Yes. 14%

• Many times. 7%

Old-school aerial

a view of anna Maria’s Pine avenue looking west toward the Gulf of Mexico from the angler’s Inn Hotel near the bayfront. The photo is dated 1924.

Islander Photos: Courtesy Manatee County Public Library System

Looking back

10-20-30 years ago

From the Jan. 18, 1996, issue

• Following two hours of discussion, the Holmes Beach City Council recommended restricting rental periods to 30 days in the city’s Residential-1 district and seven days in the R-3 district. The R-2 district would be split with seven-day and two-week rentals.

• U.S. Army Corps of Engineers surveyors were due to examine beach erosion from Hurricane Opal in October 1995. Early estimates were the beaches lost 30-50 feet.

From the Jan. 18, 2006, issue

Table service a dinner meeting takes place at Roser Memorial Community Church, 512 Pine ave., anna Maria. The photo is dated October 1980.

• Marina owner Allan Bazzy reviewed possible renovation ideas for the marina south of the Cortez Bridge for the Bradenton Beach planning and zoning board. Bazzy said he wanted to make sure the planners considered his needs as they updated the comp plan.

• Manatee County Area Transit received the first of four new trolleys for the island route. MCAT said the new trolleys would be quieter and were better outfitted to withstand saltwater air and sand.

• Federal Resort Properties of Sarasota proposed converting the Holiday Cove RV Resort in Cortez into a 78-unit condominium community.

From the Jan. 20, 2016, issue

• A front-end loader tore open a natural gas line along the west side of Gulf Drive north in Bradenton Beach, triggering an emergency response, some residential evacuations and a two-hour traffic boondoggle.

• Manatee County expressed opposition to a plan before Holmes Beach commissioners to adopt permit parking.

— Lisa neff

Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce visitors in December 2025: 25K

Compiled by Lisa neff, calendar@islander.org

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

ON AMI

Thursday, Jan. 22

2 p.m. — Friends of the Island Library lecture, Florida’s Pelicans, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Info: 941778-6341.

Friday, Jan. 23

4-10 p.m. —Coquina Beach Party Seafood and Music Festival, Coquina Beach, Bradenton Beach. Info: 941-487-8061.

Saturday, Jan. 24

11 a.m.-10 p.m. — Coquina Beach Party Seafood and Music Festival, Coquina Beach, Bradenton Beach. Info: 941-487-8061.

7 p.m. — The Wailers, Center of Anna Maria Island, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria. Fee applies. Info: 941-778-1908.

Sunday, Jan. 25

11 a.m.-6 p.m. — Coquina Beach Party Seafood and Music Festival, Coquina Beach, Bradenton Beach. Info: 941-487-8061.

Wednesday, Jan. 21

• 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.

OFF AMI

6 p.m. — “Clyde Butcher Lifeworks in Photography” lecture with the artist, the Bishop Museum of Science and Nature, 201 10th St. W., Bradenton. Fee applies. Info: 941-746-4131.

Thursday, Jan. 22

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

ONGOING ON AMI

• Through Jan. 25, Tuesdays-Sundays, Island Players’ “Murder by Misadventure,” 10009 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria. Fee applies. Info: theislandplayers.org, 941-778-5755.

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

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

ONGOING OFF AMI

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

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

• Throughout January, Island Gallery and Studios exhibit by Janet Flickinger. 456 Old Main, Bradenton. Info: 941-778-6648,

Save the date

The Florida Institute for Saltwater Heritage is organizing the annual Cortez Commercial Fishing Festival, which will be Feb. 14-15 in the historic Cortez village. Islander Courtesy Photo

ton Beach.

• April 9-19, Manatee Players’ “And Then There Were None,” Bradenton.

• April 18, De Soto Food Truck Saturdays, Bradenton.

• April 23, Music in the Park series, Bradenton.

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

ONGOING OFF AMI

• Through Jan. 25, Manatee County Fair, 1402 14th Ave. W., Palmetto. Fee applies. Info: 941-722-1639, manateecountyfair. com.

SAVE THE DATES

• Feb. 5, Friends of the Island Library lecture, Holmes Beach.

• Feb. 6-7, Feed the Peeps market fundraiser, Anna Maria.

• Feb. 12, Friends library lecture, Holmes Beach.

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

• Feb. 14, De Soto 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 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 library lecture, Holmes Beach.

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

• Feb. 28-March 1, Invitational at Holmes Beach: Art and Fine Craft Show, Holmes Beach.

• 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.

DEVINE DESIGN

• March 14, De Soto Food Truck Saturdays, Bradenton.

• March 15, Island Players’ 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.

• April 4-5, Coquina Beach Spring Art and Craft Show, Braden-

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.

• April 24, Center Bingo Night Anna Maria.

• April 25, De Soto Grand Parade, Bradenton.

• May 2, Center Crawfish Boil, Anna Maria.

CLUBS & COMMUNITY ON AMI

Wednesday, Jan. 21

11:30 a.m. — Making Sense of Medicare and Medicare Enrollment, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Info: 941778-6341.

Wednesday, Jan. 28

5 p.m. — Annie Silver Community Dinner, 103 23rd St. N., Bradenton Beach. Fee applies. Info: 513-368-6454.

ONGOING ON AMI

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

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

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

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

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

SAVE THE DATES

• Jan. 31, Roser Church Pancake Breakfast, Anna Maria.

• Jan. 31, CVHS’s Coffee, Culture and Conservation, Cortez.

• Jan. 31, Manatee County Rural Health Expo, Bradenton.

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

• 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 21, Roser Church Pancake Breakfast, Anna Maria.

• March 21, Center Beach Cleanup. Anna Maria.

COnTInUED FROM PaGE 8

• March 25, Annie Silver Dinner, Bradenton Beach.

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

• April 11, Center Beach Cleanup. Anna Maria.

MARKETS & COMMUNITY SALES

ONGOING ON AMI

• Tuesdays, through April, 9 a.m.-2 p.m., Anna Maria Community Farmers Market, Roser Memorial Community Church, 512 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, Market Night in City Center, Holmes Beach.

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

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

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

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. CALENDAR NOTES

KEEP THE DATES

• Jan. 27, International Holocaust Remembrance Day.

• Jan. 29, Lunar New Year.

• Feb. 8, Super Bowl.

• Feb. 14, Valentine’s Day.

• Feb. 16, Presidents Day.

Island happenings

Compiled by Lisa neff

author Peggy Donoho talks Jan. 15 about her research for “Miguel’s Bay” during a Friends of the Island Library lecture at the Holmes Beach branch, 5701 Marina Drive. The book by Donoho and Ron Prouty tells an immigrant story about Miguel Guerrero, a Menorcan sailor from Spain, and Frederica Kramer from Bavaria, who arrive to Florida’s Terra Ceia Island seeking a new life, build a settlement despite language barriers, wars and hardships, and help shape the area’s history. The next lecture, set for 2 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 22, will be delivered by Jeanette Edwards on Florida pelicans. Islander Photos: Lisa neff

Florida book club to meet

The Florida Author Book Club will meet at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, Jan. 22, at Tingley Memorial Library, 111 Second St. N., Bradenton Beach.

This month’s selection is “The Recovery Agent,” the first book in Janet Evanovich’s series about recovery agent Gabriela Rose, who hunts for lost treasures and missing assets, often with humor and action.

The book club is free for library members. Library membership is available for $10.

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

De Soto National Memorial launches Living History series

De Soto National Memorial is presenting interactive living history programs Friday-Sunday, featuring historical talks, weapon and tool demonstrations and hands-on displays at 10 a.m., noon and 2 p.m.

The free, family-friendly programs at Camp Uzita, 8300 DeSoto Memorial Highway, Bradenton, will run through April 19.

For more information, call 941-792-0458.

Bringing history to life at the library

Dozens attend the second lecture in the Friends of the Island Library’s seven-part series. The audience gathered Jan. 15 at the Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, to hear from Peggy Donoho and Ron Prouty, authors of “Miguel’s Bay.”

Annie Silver serves suppers

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

The center will host a community supper for $15 a person at 5 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 28, serving brisket, chicken, potatoes, rolls, veggies and desserts.

The center also will host fish fries Wednesdays, Feb. 25, and March 25.

For more information, call 513-368-6454.

Beachside festival brings seafood, music to AMI

The Coquina Beach Party Seafood & Music Festival returns to Coquina Beach, offering three days of seafood, live music and coastal entertainment.

The festival runs Jan. 23-25, with Friday hours 4-10 p.m., Saturday 11 a.m.-10 p.m. and Sunday 11 a.m.-6 p.m. at Coquina Beach, 2650 Gulf Dr. S., Bradenton Beach.

The beachfront event is free and open to the public.

For more information, call 941-487-8061.

SARASOTA GEM

Gathering By Lisa Neff

Pancake breakfast at Roser

Roser Memorial Community Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, will hold a series of pancake breakfasts this winter and spring.

The dates are Saturdays, Jan. 31, Feb. 28 and March 21, with breakfast served 8-11 a.m.

A $10 breakfast includes pancakes, sausage, applesauce, biscuits and gravy, juice and coffee or tea.

There is no charge for children age 5 and under.

The Guild Thrift Shop also will be open on breakfast days.

To present the breakfasts, Roser seeks volunteers: flippers, mixers, sausage servers, syrup servers and more.

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

Obituary

Sandra E. Coyle

Sandra E. Coyle, 90, of Bradenton, died Dec. 11, 2025.

She was born Feb. 4, 1935, in Kansas City, Kansas, as the youngest daughter of Edwin B. Coyle Sr. and Florence (Gilliford) Coyle.

She graduated with the class of 1952 from Bishop Ward High School in Kansas City, Kansas.

She enjoyed 40-plus years of service with National Cash Register. Her years there saw her in various roles and allowed her to travel across the United States and internationally. Her career also led her to live in several places, including Dayton, Ohio; Little Rock, Arkansas; and St. Louis.

Upon retirement, she chose the tranquil shores of Anna Maria Island and later, Bradenton, where she continued to enjoy the coastal lifestyle.

Her interests ranged from collecting Depression glassware, paperweights and Longaberger baskets to her love for playing cards, especially euchre.

She cherished morning walks on the beach, marking turtle nests, helping preserve local wildlife. She enjoyed volunteering as an election worker and helping at elementary schools with student vaccinations. She also volunteered as a driver for Meals on Wheels.

She was also an avid fan of her Tampa Bay Rays and Buccaneers.

A memorial visitation will be held 9-11 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 7, at Brown & Sons Funeral Homes & Crematory, 604 43rd St. W., Bradenton. A Mass of Christian Burial is planned for a later date at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Kansas City, Kansas. Online condolences may be expressed at brownandsonsfuneral.com.

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.

Holmes Beach recognizes former city commissioner

Former Holmes Beach City Commissioner Carol Soustek, second from the left, stands Jan. 13 with code compliance staff, who presented Soustek with flowers and a certificate in appreciation of service as code compliance liaison during her 11 years on the commission. Mayor Judy Titsworth and other city officials also recognized Soustek with a plaque during a commission meeting the same day. at the meeting, Soustek became emotional while expressing pride in the city’s accomplishments during her time on the dais. Islander Photo: Courtesy City of Holmes Beach

Coffee, conversation, conservation on calendar

The Cortez Village Historical Society will host a special morning event combining local history education with environmental conservation on Saturday, Jan. 31.

The “Coffee, Culture & Conservation” program 10 a.m.-noon will bring together the Sarasota Bay Estuary Program, Cortez Village Historical Society, the Florida Institute of Saltwater Heritage and Florida Sea Grant

Assistance sought on AMI

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

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

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

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

• 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 in every area to “come and be part of our family.” Info: 941-920-1362.

• Tingley Memorial Library, 111 Second St. N., Bradenton Beach, seeks volunteers to lend books and chat with patrons. 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.

Tas ty S nacks & Coffee

Worship With Us at Our Church Sunday Ser vice 10 : 00 AM Dr. Julia Wharff Piermont, Pastor Visitors & Residents Welcome

for an exploration of Cortez’s maritime traditions. Attendees will hear about community-led preservation efforts over coffee before taking a guided tour of the recently restored FISH Preserve.

The event will begin at the Cortez Cultural Center, 11655 Cortez Road W.

For more information, contact the CVHS at 941840-0590 or cvhs2016@aol.com.

Library collections

Check out Aston Barrett Jr. of The Wailers, coming soon!

By Scoop Malinowski Special to The Islander

Welcome to a Q&A with Aston Barrett Jr. of The Wailers, a Jamaican reggae band formed by former members of Bob Marley and the Wailers after Marley’s death in 1981.

The Wailers were led by bassist Aston “Familyman” Barrett until 2016, when he passed the role onto his son, Aston Barrett Jr

The Wailers are appearing in an outdoor concert at the Center of Anna Maria Island Saturday, Jan. 24.

The band’s culture-defining music, embodying the spirit of the 1970s reggae movement, will be on full display at the center, with performance of reggae classics and cuts from Marley’s repertoire.

Gates will open at 6 p.m. There will be an opening act at 7 p.m. and The Wailers will perform at 8 p.m.

Tickets are general admission — and bring your own seating. They start at $50.

The center is at 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria. For tickets and more information, go to centerami. org/concerts or call the center at 941-778-1908.

Biofile: Aston Barrett Jr.

DOB: Oct. 20, 1990

Birthplace: Jamaica

First memory of music: I was very young and

1st bingo!

Leo neuner of Oklahoma displays his winning bingo card and prize after claiming the first bingo win of 2026 on Jan. 15 at the annie Silver Community Center.

Islander Photos: Robert anderson

went to a Wailers concert in Jamaica, I was amazed seeing my father play live.

Music inspirations: Aston “Familyman” Barrett and Bob Marley & The Wailers.

Last book read: The Bible.

Childhood dreams: To continue to help people with music.

First job: Musician.

Favorite movies: “Mortal Kombat,” “Bob Marley One Love,” Bruce Lee, Jet Li, Jackie Chang.

First famous person you met: Emilio Estefan.

Greatest moment of your career: Playing the role of my father in the “Bob Marley: One Love” movie.

Most painful career moment: Balancing home

AM resident makes dean’s list

Macy Carroll, an interior design major from Anna Maria was named to the dean’s list for the fall 2025 semester at Samford University in Birmingham, Alabama.

The dean’s list is the highest academic recognition given by the school at the end of each semester.

School achievements

The Islander welcomes announcements of school achievements, honors, awards at all levels. Please, share the news with the local newspaper by emailing news@islander.org. Include a name and contact number for questions.

Milestones

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

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

with music.

Favorite ice cream flavor: Rum and raisin.

Favorite artists : Bob Marley, Dennis Brown, Alton Ellis, Adele, Jimi Hendrix, Metallica, James Brown, DMX, Snoop Dog, Buju Banton, Super Cat, Beenie Man, Bounty Killer, Jacob Miller, all the Marleys, Gloria Estefan, Aerosmith, the Beatles.

Favorite performers: My father’s send off, it was emotional. So we put so much emotions into the music showing the respect.

Funny career memory: The bus broke down in the world’s largest truck stop, it was -35 degrees, I made a cup of tea, went outside and it became ice, so we all went in the truck stop had food and jam and sang.

Embarrassing career memory: Arriving late at concert we were playing at.

Favorite venue or place to perform: Steven Talkhouse, small but great vibe.

Most memorable performance: Watching Jimmy Cliff live in Australia at the Byron Bay Blues Fest.

People qualities most admired: My father Aston “Familyman” Barrett, Emilio Estefan. They always pick up my phone calls and they’re one of the most successful business people I know.

Editor’s note: Scoop Malinowski is author of a series of “Biofile” interviews at mrbiofile.com.

HBPD works the grills for AME

The Holmes Beach Police Department’s grill team staffs a tent at anna Maria Elementary School. Students and staff celebrated Law Enforcement appreciation Day Jan. 9 with shout outs to the HBPD, especially Officer Christine LaBranche, center, the school’s resource officer.

On aME’s social media accounts, the school said, “Thank you for keeping our campus safe and for all you do to support our students, staff and community. We truly appreciate you!” Islander Photo: Courtesy aME/Facebook

Virginia woman charged after brawl at HB pub

By Ryan Paice Islander Reporter

Holmes Beach police arrested Chelsey Noble, 32, of Richmond, Virginia, Jan. 13 on a third-degree felony charge for battery and two first-degree misdemeanors for battery causing bodily harm.

Noble was charged with felony battery for allegedly “intentionally causing great bodily harm by breaking another person’s finger by biting,” according to a police report.

An officer responded around 11:23 p.m. to reports of a fight involving multiple people at the Freckled Fin Irish Pub, 5337 Gulf Drive, and found people prone on the pavement outside the pub. The officer was told Noble was intoxicated and started the fight.

HBPD handcuffed Noble, whose face was bloodied. She was detained in a patrol vehicle while awaiting backup and Manatee County Emergency Medical Services.

Witnesses told police Noble got stuck in the pub’s bathroom and started “aggressively banging” on the door — which she was attempting to open the wrong way — while trying to get out.

When a Freckled Fin employee opened the door, she allegedly shoved the employee out of the way. At that point, staff informed Noble to pay her tab and

leave, but she refused and shoved another employee.

A third employee tried to step in and break up the altercation, but Noble allegedly grabbed her “by the hair and started hitting her in the face and body.”

The fight ended and Noble’s mother paid their tab, at which point they were escorted from the pub.

Outside, Noble again allegedly attacked an employee, a person she struck earlier.

The victim, who was treated for a broken finger at the ER at Palma Sola in Bradenton, told police Noble “bit, punched and kicked me in the face, head, chest and hand” until employees got the woman to the ground and restrained her.

An officer arrested Noble and transported her to the ER at Palma Sola for treatment.

She was then booked into the Manatee County jail, where she was released the same day after posting $7,000 bond.

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

Punishment for a first-degree misdemeanor includes up to one year in prison, one year of probation and a fine of up to $1,000.

An arraignment will be Feb. 27 at the Manatee County Judicial Center in Bradenton.

New trial sought by Cortez resident after child porn conviction

By Robert anderson Islander Reporter

A Cortez resident convicted in December 2025 on child pornography charges is seeking a new trial, arguing improper evidence and insufficient proof of knowledge undermined a jury’s verdict.

Defense attorneys for Gavan Berzman filed a motion for a new trial Dec. 27 in the 12th Judicial Circuit Court, following a Dec. 17 jury verdict that found Berzman guilty on 19 counts of possession of child pornography, all second-degree felonies.

Berzman was formally charged Oct. 6, 2022, following an investigation in which Manatee County Sheriff’s detectives discovered illegal images on a laptop, according to court documents. The case proceeded to a jury trial in December, which concluded with guilty verdicts on 19 counts.

Berzman’s defense counsel moved for a new trial immediately following the verdict and later filed a written motion arguing that the verdict was contrary

to the law and the weight of the evidence, citing the admission of evidence of other alleged crimes not charged in the case.

The defense also contends the state failed to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that Berzman knowingly possessed child pornography or intentionally exercised control over the images.

A hearing on Berzman’s motions for a new trial, mistrial and judgment of acquittal will be Jan. 30 at the Manatee County Judicial Center in Bradenton.

Island police reports

Anna Maria No new reports.

Bradenton Beach No new reports.

Cortez

Dec. 29, 4528 119th St. W., Cortez Kitchen, burglary. A Manatee County sheriff’s deputy responded to a report of an unknown man at the business after hours. The MCSO reported loud music and observed plastic cups on the bar, some containing wine. A nearby fisherman told deputies the man offered him a beer. Deputies also noted the cooler appeared to be forced open. The MCSO made an arrest in the case.

Holmes Beach

Jan. 6, Manatee Avenue, arrest warrant. A Holmes Beach police officer conducted a traffic stop on a motorist with an expired registration. The officer identified the driver and passenger, who had an active arrest warrant in Manatee County. The officer arrested the passenger and transported her to the Manatee County jail.

Jan. 8, 800 block of Manatee Avenue, marijuana. An officer conducted a traffic stop on a motorist with an expired registration. The officer spoke with the occupants and smelled marijuana from inside the vehicle. The occupants had no medical marijuana license. Upon searching the vehicle, police found packages of marijuana and a container of suspected edibles. The officer confiscated the items for testing and told the occupants that they would be charged if the items tested positive for a controlled substance.

Jan. 9, 7000 block of Gulf Drive, theft. A man called the Holmes Beach Police Department to report multiple items left on his porch were stolen.

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

— Robert anderson and Ryan Paice

Pedestrian hit near Anna Maria pier

An 80-year-old woman was injured Jan. 8 after a motorist driving a pickup truck struck her in a marked crosswalk near the intersection of Pine Avenue and Bay Boulevard in Anna Maria.

According to Sgt. Brett Getman of the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office Anna Maria Unit, the pickup was traveling south on North Bay Boulevard. The driver stopped before proceeding through the inter-

section, where they struck the woman.

Emergency medical responders transported the woman, who had complaints of hip pain, to HCA Florida Blake Hospital. Authorities did not release information on the severity of her injuries.

As of Islander press time Jan. 19, no additional information was released regarding the incident. — Robert anderson

Cold weather prompts anglers to find alternatives to fishing

By Capt. Danny Stasny Islander Reporter

As Anna Maria Island anglers experienced some of the coldest days of the winter, they found themselves searching for excuses not to have to do the less meaningful things in life, like mow the lawn — or other projects that typically get pushed under the rug so they can go fishing.

Intense cold fronts wear on anglers because we just don’t know what else to do, nor do we care to do much else.

Stasny

Sure, there’s always the bars, but that gets expensive, not to mention the hangovers. And you always seem to get a better welcome upon arriving home smelling like fish as opposed to arriving home reeking of booze. Of course, for the folks who drink and fish at the same time, this is OK for you, but not for the rest of us.

On a positive note, cold fronts provide great opportunities to get reacquainted with the nuances of everyday life, like spending time with family, taking the dog for a walk or simply staying inside to binge-watch the latest sitcom streaming on TV.

Even with all of these things going on, you’re still thinking about fishing, right?

How many days of this cold can you stand before you find yourself standing in the garage staring at your tackle and wishing you were on the water again?

Eventually, unable to withstand the withdrawals, you resort to the next best thing.

You shop for more fishing tackle.

And the skilled addict or angler knows, they can shoot two birds with one stone by simply gathering up the family and saying, “Let’s all go to Bass Pro Shops for the day.”

The kids will love it and you’ll get to spend some quality time together — at least until you get there and you become mesmerized by the supply of fishing and hunting gear, forgetting you even brought the family with you.

Since we’re in Florida — the cold fronts are typically brief, lasting no more than several days to a week — before getting back to normal, with days in the mid-70s, with plenty of sunshine and plenty of fishing. Then the cold days are forgotten — until the next front arrives.

On my Just Reel charters, I’m spending time watching the weather, looking for a window of oppor-

Finding a way

Manatee County natural Resources education and volunteer specialist Sara alvarez instructs participants in the basics of course navigation during an orienteering class Jan. 15 at neal Preserve on Perico Island. Orienteering is a competitive outdoor sport that combines navigation and movement, challenging participants to use maps and routeselection skills to locate checkpoints in sequence. Islander

Photo: Robert anderson

tunity and then I’m back to fishing.

Just prior to the front, I was finding plenty of early-season sheepshead around the wrecks in the Gulf and along the Gulf beaches, with many needing to be measured to see if they were keepers. Key West grunts, mangrove snapper and flounder were rounding out the bite.

Inshore fishing in canals was producing sheepshead, as well as redfish and black drum.

Capt. David White says he’s finding action inshore,

ana Clara Packer, 12, of Bradenton, fished with anna Maria Island Charter’s Capt. Johnny Mattay on her birthday, Jan. 11, and caught and released an out-ofseason gag grouper on a pinfish about 6-7 miles offshore of anna Maria Island. along with her dad, they also caught their limit of mangrove snapper and flounder for the cooler.

targeting fish with shrimp as bait. On the sunny days, he says sheepshead are being caught with some black drum and redfish mixed in.

Drifting and jigging over deep fl ats is yielding pompano for White’s charters, as well as usual suspects — ladyfish, bluefish and jack crevalle.

Lastly, White is managing to hook up with a snook here and there, despite the cold weather.

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

MCSO marine patrol, Mote rescue distressed shark

A shark carrying multiple hooks and tangled in crab gear got a second chance at life when rescuers cut it free.

A pair of Manatee County Sheriff’s Office marine deputies were patrolling swim zones Jan. 9 at Manatee Public Beach, 4000 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, when they found a distressed sandbar shark tangled in a crab trap buoy line.

The shark was assumed to have been hooked by an angler on the beach. The fishing line was likely cut, releasing the shark, but the line attached to the hook became wrapped around the buoy line.

At that point, the Mote employees pulled the shark alongside their vessel and removed “several hooks and pieces of fishing gear” from the shark, according to an MCSO Facebook post.

After it was freed, the shark swam away underwater and out of sight.

MCSO public information officer Randy Warren did not respond to calls Jan. 15 and Jan. 16 from The Islander for more details about the rescue.

— Ryan Paice

The deputies contacted Sarasota-based Mote Marine Laboratory for assistance rescuing the shark and stayed with the shark until two Mote employees arrived on a marine research vessel.

Full slate of winter-spring island sports gets underway on AMI

By Kevin P. Cassidy Islander Reporter

The new year is underway, as are winter sports at the community center.

The Center of Anna Maria Island has youth flag football kicking off, including an all-girls division, while on the adult side, they have an indoor soccer league as well as a 35-plus soccer league.

Cassidy

I won’t be able to report on all of them this week, due to some technical difficulties, but stay tuned.

Girls host flag football jamboree

The inaugural 8-10 girls football division played two exhibition games Jan. 12 in a quasi-jamboree format.

Emily Moss Design took on Print Wizards and took it on the chin in the first game as Elin Bannick threw five touchdown passes and added a rushing touchdown in leading the Wizards to a 32-6 victory. Jade Ptak had one touchdown reception to go along with a touchdown run, while Willow Moss and Caroline Svoboda each added a catch.

Elle Blackburn threw a touchdown pass to Ruthie Ball for Moss Design in the loss.

The second game of the evening saw Sato Real Estate defeat Poppo’s Taqueria 18-6 behind Juliette Sato, who ran for two touchdowns and added a touchdown reception from quarterback Bayla Lance.

Gia Ciasullo ran for a touchdown for Poppo’s in the loss.

More flag football action

Action in the 11-13 football division got started Jan. 13 with 82 West Home Inspections cruising to a 31-0 victory over Sato Real Estate behind three touchdown passes from quarterback Nolan Anderson, including two to Rusty Dilley. Luca Viehman had a

President’s Cup winners Bruce Christenson, left, and Bob Rowley flank second-place finisher john Hackinson following their jan. 14 rounds at the Key Royale Club in Holmes Beach. Islander Photo: Courtesy KRC

touchdown catch and a touchdown run, while Hudson West finished with a TD catch and Parker Svoboda posted a TD pass in the shutout victory.

Sato was stymied on offense, but Jackson Griffin and Brandon Sato came through with interceptions for the defense in the loss.

The second game of the evening was another blowout with Florida Impact Windows cruising to a 39-0 victory over G.I. Bins. Braylen Briggs and Andre Harwood both had a pair of interceptions, and both returned one for touchdowns. David Evans had an interception return for a touchdown as well, while also throwing three touchdown passes to lead the offense. Phoenix Harwood had two touchdown receptions and Briggs added another in the blowout victory.

The third game of the evening produced yet another blowout with Slim’s Place earning a dominating 32-0 victory over Cloud Pest Control behind five touchdown receptions from Charlee Maize and a pair of touchdown passes from Sawyer Leibfried.

The last game of the evening produced a competitive game as USA Fence held on for a 39-35 victory over Reed Physical Therapy & Fitness.

Tyler Higman threw for two touchdowns and ran for a pair of touchdowns to lead USA Fence, which also got touchdown catches from Sammy Gilmore, Colten DeBarry and Banyan Burdette. DeBarry also had an interception return for a touchdown.

Kyle Mims threw three touchdown passes and ran

for another for Reed Fitness, which also received three touchdown catches from Kellen Reed and one from Isaac Roadman in the loss.

Action in the 14-17 age group kicked off Jan. 13 with three games in the seven-team division.

Swordfish Grill cruised to a 37-6 victory over Better on Bikes behind four TD passes from quarterback Ryker Keift to four different receivers. Colin Bankert, Gregory Jordan, Robert Morgan and Harrison Schenerle all caught TD passes for Swordfish Grill in the victory.

Better on Bikes were led by Callee Quire’s touchdown pass to Cayson Travis in the loss.

Wings’n Things held on for a 21-15 victory over HSH Design behind three TD passes from Ryk Kesten to Callin Westfall.

Frankie Coleman led HSH Design with a rushing and receiving TD, while Caden Quinby threw one touchdown pass in the loss.

The last game of the evening saw Solid Rock Construction outscore Mi-Box 30-12 behind four TD passes from Jack Mattick, including two to Henry Dugan. Van Havell and Bella Roadman both finished with TD grabs in the victory.

Horseshoe news

Horseshoe action at the Anna Maria City Hall pits Jan. 14 was short and sweet, as Steve Doyle and Dom Livedoti posted the lone 3-0 record in pool play and were the day’s outright champs.

The Jan. 18 games saw Livedoti back in the mix, this time teamed up with Steve Kriebel. Livedoti and Kriebel defeated Bob Baker and Bob Palmer 22-11 in the championship match.

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.

KRC golf news

Golf action at the Key Royale Club got started Jan. 12 with the men’s weekly modified-Stableford system match.

Bill Shuman lapped the field, carding a plus-7 to

By Lisa Neff

Playing defense in Tallahassee

Florida’s 2026 legislative session kicked off Jan. 13, putting environmentalists on alert for 60 days. With the leadership in the governor’s office and at the Capitol for at least the past seven years, environmentalists have largely played defense. So, they’ve got a playbook, which involves motivating citizens to defeat bad bills and lobbying lawmakers to amend and narrow bills to reduce harm.

Prior to the session’s start, 1000 Friends of Florida, Healthy Gulf, Florida Audubon, Friends of the Everglades and other environmental groups presented legislative previews, focusing on bills that could impact local authority, land conservation, water management and community resilience.

Friends of the Everglades policy director Gil Smart, in a webinar Jan. 12, said, “It’s the session of sprawl on steroids. I have never seen so many prodevelopment, quote unquote, bills — bills designed to streamline the permitting process, cut local governments out, reduce their authority, cut local citizens out of the planning process. It’s stunning.”

Islander readers should be familiar with concerns about the Legislature interfering with local authority — attacking home rule — as the island mayors have been sounding alarms over preemption for years.

In 2026, municipal leaders and environmental groups are opposing the same bills, including:

• Senate Bill 208/HB 399, which, as introduced, would limit the criteria local governments can use in reviewing residential development proposals. Audubon says it would allow “new development to override comprehensive plans, neutralize compatibility, ignore inadequate infrastructure capacity and eliminate surrounding land-use considerations.”

• Senate Bill 354/HB 299, which, as proposed, would mandate the administrative approval of “Blue

finish four points ahead of second-place finishers Ken Nagengast and Bob Paine, who finished at plus-3.

The women played a “play with friends day” and took a team average for scores on Jan. 13.

The team of Leigh Brattain, Sue Wheeler and Mary Wilkie had an average score of 2-over-par 34 to earn clubhouse bragging rights for the day. The team of Annette Hall, Judy Menchek and Billy Jean Pinson were a stroke back in second.

The highlight of the week occurred on Jan. 14 with the Men’s President’s Cup competition.

abbey Kuhn, ecological projects coordinator with Oyster River Ecology, takes part in an invasive-species removal workday jan. 15 at Leffis Key in Bradenton Beach. The nonprofit works with volunteers and local governments to restore native habitats and protect coastal ecosystems across the county.

Ribbon” developments of 10,000 acres or more that meet certain criteria despite zoning laws and comp plans.

Smart said, “As long as they check these boxes, they get … administrative approval with no public input. That’s outrageous and Floridians should not

Forty-three golfers teed off in the annual event on a cool, windy day. Playing a modified-Stableford format, Bruce Christenson and Bob Rowley finished in a tie for first place with 38 points, a point ahead of second-place finisher John Hackinson.

Jim Bailey won the long-drive contest from the blue tees, while Larry Pippel won from the gold tees. Hackinson won closest-to-the-pin on hole No. 3, while Jim Hill won No. 8.

Following the event, the golfers enjoyed lunch and beverages on the patio.

Labor of love

Oyster River Ecology executive director Damon Moore flashes a smile as he removes a Brazilian peppertree during an invasive-species removal workday jan. 15 at Leffis Key Preserve in Bradenton Beach. The volunteer effort, held in partnership with Manatee County, focused on reducing invasive exotics to protect native coastal habitat. Islander

Photos: Robert anderson

permit, should not stand for that sort of thing.”

• SB 718/HB 479, which, as introduced, would prohibit localities from adopting regulations or policies protecting water quality or quantity and wetlands.

• SB 218/HB 217, which would mitigate some of the impacts of SB 180. SB 180, enacted in 2025, made it illegal for local governments to pass new regulations seen as more stringent on land development from 2024-27.

The bill, however, still maintains restrictions in most of the state, limiting local governments’ ability to adopt growth-management tools that link development approvals to infrastructure readiness — a cornerstone of responsible planning, according to Florida Audubon.

Already, environmentalists have made some gains in the 2026 session.

SB 208 was amended, removing and narrowing some of the most concerning provisions, according to 1000 Friends.

HB 479 also was amended to narrow its scope.

Meanwhile, environmental groups are supporting some measures, including:

• SB 302, which would require the Florida Department of Environmental Protection to adopt rules and guidelines for nature-based solutions — green infrastructure — for improving coastal resilience.

If passed and implemented correctly, this measure would drive mangrove restoration, wetland and dune restoration, living shorelines, reef and marsh restoration and other nature-based methods to reduce erosion and restore coastal habitat.

• SB 546, which would bring more transparency into the process of selling state land, requiring stronger notice of land swaps and sales.

BB redevelopment agency advances resolution

By Robert anderson Islander Reporter

The Bradenton Beach Community Redevelopment Agency voted Jan. 15 to recommend a draft resolution confirming its continued existence and compliance with state requirements enacted in 2019.

The resolution is to document that the agency meets statutory criteria governing community redevelopment agencies, including its formation date, reporting obligations and sunset provisions. The CRA does not have authority to adopt the resolution, but unanimously voted to forward it to the city commission with a recommendation for approval. The CRA consists of the mayor and city commissioners.

The resolution stems from state legislative changes in 2019 that required local governments to formally acknowledge and ratify CRAs created prior to 2019.

“This is essentially the commission saying, ‘Yes, we see the statute, we comply with it and we agree the CRA remains in existence,’” city attorney Erica Augello said Jan. 15.

The resolution also addresses the CRA’s sunset date as required by statute.

For now, Augello said, adoption of the resolution would put the city in compliance.

The commission will review the draft resolution at 6 p.m., Thursday, Feb. 5, at city hall.

The next CRA meeting will be at 9:30 a.m., Thursday, Feb. 19, at city hall.

About the CRA

The CRA district was established in 1992 to create public projects to improve Bradenton Beach’s historic commercial area. The district is bounded by Cortez Road to the north, Sarasota Bay, the Gulf and Eighth Street South.

Welcome to the chamber

The Islander welcomes new members of the Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce. Please, consider doing business locally and get to know the members on the chamber roster.

The following have joined since Dec. 25, 2025:

Island Time AMI Rentals, Verushak Cascardo. 941-524-9074.

Adkins Building and Construction, JR Schoch, 941-896-3012.

Fine Art Reproduction/Graphic Design, Studio F, Frank Williams, 941-704-8108.

Echo Productions, videography, 614-2665088.

Manatee River Boat Rentals & Water Sports, Eric Hollar, 941-932-3700.

The Wood Reserve home decor, Ryan Bergeron, 941-201-4230.

Duque Roofing, Terry Duque, 941-3521533.

Roofs for Life, Edward Martineau, 941-3683330.

Price 4 Limo. Travis Salat, 866-265-5479.

For more information about members and membership, call the chamber at 941-941-7781541.

— Bonner joy

Work continues on former Lay-By Resort

Permits for work on the former Lay-By Resort, 105 White ave., Holmes Beach, remain active as of jan. 15, according to Chad Minor, city director of development services. The property was purchased for $8.825 million in 2019 by nashville-based Coasting LLC, a firm representing country music power couple Garth Brooks and Trisha Yearwood. Work to convert the former resort into a single-family home has been underway since 2021. Islander Photo: Robert anderson

$500 COUPON

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.

SRQ ends 2025 with record

Sarasota Bradenton International Airport closed 2025 with record-breaking passenger traffic, welcoming more than 4.5 million passengers throughout the year.

SRQ is the nearest airport to AMI.

In December 2025, 417,468 passengers traveled through SRQ, representing an increase of 3.05% compared to December 2024, when 405,115 passengers were recorded.

Total passenger activity for 2025 reached 4,514,781 passengers, representing an increase of 6.34% over calendar year 2024, which saw 4,245,686 passengers.

“The continued growth we have experienced at SRQ over the past several years has been exceptional,” Paul Hoback Jr., SRQ’s president and CEO, said in a news release. “Surpassing 4.5 million passengers in 2025 is an important milestone and reflects strong demand for affordable and reliable air service.”

— Lisa neff

MilkShake Factory opens

The MilkShake Factory Palma Sola, 7230 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton, will host a grand opening Saturday, Jan. 24.

From noon-4 p.m., the shop will offer buy one, get one free shakes, as well as give T-shirts to the first 100 customers.

A news release said the MilkShake Factory is a “locally owned and operated business” with “100-yearold, family recipes.”

Regular hours are noon-10 p.m.

For more information, go online to milkshakefactory.com or call 941-253-5699.

— Lisa neff

RoadWatch

Game time

Bortell’s owner seeking $6.2 million for property

Bortell’s Lounge, 10002 Gulf Drive, anna Maria, was up for sale at an asking price of $6.2 million as of jan. 15, according to an employee. The bar opened in 1977 and is currently owned by Steve Rose, who remodeled the building 2018-21. an offering memorandum for the sale describes the property as a turnkey business — one a new owner could step into and run immediately — since its purchase would include the 2,850-square-foot bar, all furniture, fixtures and equipment, as well as the business’ 4COP dual liquor license. Islander Photo: Robert anderson

At the community market

Sarasota Sips owner Cassie Figueroa tends shop from her newly constructed vending trailer jan. 13 at the anna Maria Community Farmers Market, held Tuesdays 9 a.m.-2 p.m. at Roser Memorial Community Church, 512 Pine ave., anna Maria. Islander Photo: Robert anderson Holmes Beach sets construction schedule

Holmes Beach was to begin Phase 1 of the Gulf Drive Sea Level Rise Mitigation Project Jan. 20, with an anticipated completion date in April.

This project will focus on stormwater improvements in the area of 55th Street and 56th Street, from Gulf Drive to Marina Drive.

For motorists and property owners in the area, the work can mean:

• Periodic lane closures;

• Construction equipment in the area;

• Temporary traffic impacts.

For more information, contact Holmes Beach public works project manager Matt Gorman at 941708-5768 or mgorman@holmesbeachfl.org.

Eyes on the road

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

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

Bob Slicker raises a glass during Tuesday trivia jan. 13 at his Cortez restaurant, Slicker’s Eatery, 12012 Cortez Road W., Cortez. Slicker has sold the business and will host one last trivia game jan. 27 and a farewell celebration at 6 p.m. Friday, jan. 30. For more info, go to slickerseatery.com or call 941-7962225. Islander Photo: Bonner joy

Business news

The Islander welcomes business news, including announcements and photos of operational changes, expansions, achievements, openings, special events and more.Please, email news@islander.org with notices and a contact name and phone number. Photos are appreciated.

Thursday, Jan. 22

5 p.m. — Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce Trolley Grant Awards, The Chateau Anna Maria, 5325 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Info: 941-778-1541, amichamber.org.

SAVE THE DATES

Feb. 12, 6:30 p.m., Manatee Chamber of Commerce’s awards dinner, Bradenton Area Convention Center, Palmetto. Send IslBizCal listings to calendar@islander.org. Please include a contact number.

ITEMS FOR SALE

TERVIS TUMBLERS: FIVE new, clear with price stickers. $25. Call 941-761-1393 (no text).

ICE CREAM MAKER: Cuisinart, $50, grill, non-stick tabletop, green pan, $90, Tigerxbang oar/paddle for outdoor activity, $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

PANCAKE BREAKFAST: 8:30 a.m.-11 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 31. All you can eat at Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave, Anna Maria.

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

Full-service lawn maintenance. Landscaping ~ Cleanups Hauling ~ Tree Trimming. LICENSED & INSURED

GARAGE SALES

MOVING SALE: 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Jan. 23-24. Original Art, antiques, collectibles plus usual stuff. 11021 Jasmine Circle, Perico Island, Bradenton.

TRANSPORTATION

GOLF CART RENTALS: Fun for residents and tourists! 941-213-5730. www.annamariacartrentals.com

BOATS & BOATING

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

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

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.

GHEENOE: FIVE-IN-one, 15-foot multi-boat. Canoe, motor, sailboat, fishing and rowboat. Aqua with white interior. $850 obo. 814-5743768.

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 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.

SERVICES Continued

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? n ot 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: 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 WI n DOWS? 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.

a CH a UFFER4U FOR TR an SPORTaTIO n 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.

I SL an DER a RCHI v E UofF Florida digital newspaper collection at ufdc.ufl.edu.

SERVICES Continued

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

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

CLEANING SERVICES: Ten-plus years’ experience. Professional, prompt with a flexible schedule. Contact Jessica, 941-900-8051.

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.

RIDES 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. 941-920-3840.

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.

GRIFFI n ’S HOME IMPRO v EME n TS 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.

LOOKI n G FOR an Y 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.

DO na LD PERKI n S Pa I n TI n G LLC. Interior/exterior/pressure washing. Island references. dperkinspaint@hotmail.com. 941705-7096.

HOME IMPROVEMENT Continued

GORILL a DRYWa LL REPa IR LLC. Let’s solve your drywall problems together. Give us a call at 941-286-0607.

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

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

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

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

FEBRUARY-APRIL CONDO rental near AMI beaches. Delightful 3BR/2BA condo, photos available. Close to pool, hot tub, tennis/pickleball, shopping and restaurants. Walk to beach with Palma Sola views. Covered carport, guest parking. One small dog under 30 lbs. considered. $3,300/month, utilities included, three-month minimum. 617-803-4659. zoe. perrywood@gmail.com

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

REAL ESTATE

FULLY FURNISHED AND cute trailer for sale: Sarasota Bay RV Park. 1BR/1BA with lanai. Great condition. $31,000 for building. 920-344-8271.

REAL ESTATE Continued

WI nn IE MCH a LE, RE a LTOR, 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/2B a CO n DO I n 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. a sking $370,000. Call Sharon, 941-7305645.

SNOWBIRD SPECIAL: NICELY furnished 2BR/2BA condo. Community heated pool and spa. Minutes to beach. $249,000. Call agent direct, Real Estate Mart, 941-356-1456.

NORTHWEST BRADENTON: SINGLE-family custom home. 2BR/2BA, two-car garage. Community pool, spa, clubhouse and boat docks. $795,000. Real Estate Mart, 941-356-1456.

FULLY FURNISHED AND cute trailer for sale: Sarasota Bay RV Park. 1BR/1BA with lanai. Great condition. $31,000 for building. 920-344-8271.

BEST ISLAND DEAL! 1BR/1BA trailer, takeover remodel. Sandpiper Resort $69,999. Retirement, annual, seasonal income. 831-212-2606.

LaRGE DOUBLE LOT in Sunny Shores park, one mile from Gulf beaches. Concrete pads for Rvs, boats, nO HOa. Room for any size manufactured home. $169,000. 941-266-0439.