The Islander Newspaper E-Edition Wednesday, May,13, 2026

Bradenton Beach opts to retain police

By Robert anderson Islander Reporter

Bradenton Beach commissioners agreed May 7 to continue operating the city police department, ending consideration of a concept to contract for citywide law enforcement with the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office.

The decision came at a special meeting at city hall where commissioners, residents, business owners and police officers voiced support for retaining municipal policing.

Bradenton Beach commissioners in early April directed staff to seek a formal proposal from the county to compare long-term policing costs and staffing ahead of the 2026-27 budget cycle.

Mayor John Chappie said the city had sought the county proposal to compare options, but he cautioned commissioners against a decision based solely on projected savings.

“There’s no going back once we make that decision,” Chappie said of dissolving the police department.

Attorney Robert Eschenfelder of Trask Daigneault

LLP, serving as counsel for the May 7 meeting, said the city’s annual police department budget is about $2.108 million while the MCSO’s first-year contract for a supervisor and eight deputies would be about $1.358 million.

Eschenfelder said the proposal represented a $322,000 first-year savings, but the estimate was based on entry-level deputy salaries and future contracts could reflect the actual salaries and benefits of assigned deputies.

Commissioners questioned whether overtime, special-event staffing, marine patrol and community

Here comes hurricane season

Piloting into storm season

Holmes Beach City

Commissioner dan diggins, left, and Mayor Judy Titsworth, right, sit May 4 in the cockpit of a P3 orion, a hurricane hunter aircraft, during the national Weather Service’s 2026 gulf Coast Hurricane awareness Tour at the Sarasota Bradenton International airport, 6000 Rick Piccolo Circle, Sarasota. Islander Courtesy Photos

Holmes Beach hosts workshop on storm season preparations

By Ryan Paice Islander Reporter

With hurricane season weeks away, the city of Holmes Beach is encouraging people to get ahead of the next storm before it’s too late.

City officials hosted a May 5 workshop to prepare locals for the coming season — June 1-Nov. 30.

Mayor Judy Titsworth opened the workshop by introducing the city emergency operations command staff, which includes Police Chief Bill Tokajer, development services director Chad Minor, public works director Herb Raybourn, building official Neal Schwartz and development services coordinator Kim Charron.

Tokajer talked about how residents should prepare

What you need to know

Holmes Beach Police Chief Bill Tokajer speaks May 5 about how to prepare for the upcoming hurricane season, which runs June 1-nov. 30.

for hurricane season, including packing a go-bag containing cash and medicine, a disaster kit with supplies to last a week and a thumb drive with important documents.

“If you’re waiting until the last minute, you’ve made mistakes,” he said.

Tokajer also advised residents to document their homes, including recording serial numbers for appliances, to help when filing insurance claims.

He directed people to use Manatee County’s information center at mymanatee.org/weather to learn about PLEaSE, SEE HURRiCAne PReP, PagE 2

Former Bradenton Beach Commissioner Jake Spooner addresses commissioners during a May 7 special meeting at city hall regarding a proposal to contract for citywide law enforcement with the Manatee County Sheriff’s office. City police and residents filled the meeting room. Islander

redevelopment agency patrol costs could reduce any projected savings with the county.

Commissioners also questioned contract language allowing the MCSO to replace assigned deputies at its discretion.

“There’s a lot of risk that our costs are going to go up without us having control,” Commissioner Scott Bear said.

More than 10 people spoke during public comment.

Resident Jim Hassett recalled Police Chief John

County backs Tingley library repair plan

By Robert anderson Islander Reporter

Bradenton Beach commissioners approved a motion May 7 to work with Manatee County staff on a plan to preserve the Tingley Memorial Library following a county vote earlier in the week to explore financial aid for repairs to the building.

City commissioners unanimously approved a motion authorizing Vice Mayor Debbie Scaccianoce and Police Chief John Cosby, who serves as public works director, to work with the county on a support plan for the library.

Scaccianoce described the county vote as a major step forward.

“I was encouraged, excited, happy, that they voted unanimously to work towards a solution, to find the funding, to repair our library,” she said.

Her comment was met with applause from meeting attendees, including library board members.

Scaccianoce, who attended the county meeting May 5 alongside Tingley staff and other city officials, said newer estimates for library repairs, including a new air-conditioning system, ductwork, stairs and accessibility ramp, came in lower than originally projected, which she said encouraged county officials reviewing the proposal.

In their May 5 vote, county commissioners unanimously agreed to begin exploring ways to help fund repairs to the city-operated institution.

County commissioners did not approve funding but instead directed county staff to work with Bradenton Beach on a plan for county support.

County Commission Chair Tal Siddique, R-District 3, described the library as a valued community asset

HB officials attend hurricane tour at SRQ, hold workshop

right, on the tarmac during the national Weather Service’s 2026 gulf Coast Hurricane awareness Tour at the Sarasota Bradenton International airport.

Holmes Beach Police Chief Bill Tokajer speaks May 5 about how to prepare for the upcoming hurricane season, which runs June 1-nov. 30.

a Lockheed WC-130J Hercules sits open May 4 for tourgoers to enter at SRQ. The aircraft is specialized for weather reconnaissance and is used by the air Force Reverse Command for hurricane hunting. Islander Photos: Courtesy City of Holmes Beach

HURRiCAne PReP ConTInuEd FRoM PagE 1

forecasts, power outages, sandbag availability and shelters.

Residents also can sign up for alerts and updates from the city and county. To get city alerts, text “HOLMESBEACH” to 91896 and reply “YES” to confirm. To get county alerts, text “MANATEEREADY” to 888777 and reply with an email address.

Ahead of a storm, people should move belongings out of low-lying or flood-prone areas inside their homes to lessen damage in storm surge events like Hurricane Helene in 2024.

Residents should also shutter windows, lock and sandbag their homes before leaving to help maintain structural integrity and prevent potential post-storm looters from entering.

Sandbags will be available near the pickleball courts on the north side of city field, at the corner of 62nd Street and Flotilla Drive.

When a buzz begins about a storm brewing, weather-watchers increasingly turn to social media for news, tracking and emergency updates.

One way to stay up to date is to search for hashtags for a storm on social media.

Additionally, the National Hurricane Center provides updates on X via @NWSNHC and @NHC_Atlantic.

The National Weather Service informs via @NWS and, for local info, via @NWSTampaBay.

A favorite Facebook follow: ABC Action News chief meteorologist Denis Phillips at @denisphillipsweatherman.

Outside their homes, residents should bring in or secure outdoor furniture and other items, clear loose debris and trim weak tree branches that could be carried away by wind, as well as check nearby storm drains for blockages.

Tokajer also stressed for residents to follow evacuation orders, as first responders might not be able to help those who stay in certain situations. Emergency services will not respond during sustained winds of 45 mph or more, while law enforcement will not respond during sustained winds of 55 mph or more.

West Manatee Fire Rescue Fire & Life Safety Inspector Lt. Josh Adkins also spoke, advising people to reinforce their garage doors, move vehicles to higher ground and learn how to shut off power in the case of flooding.

Adkins also warned about post-storm dangers, such as lithium-ion batteries that can explode if exposed to floodwater. Flooded batteries should be removed from

County offers storm prep tour

Manatee County Emergency Management will offer people a look inside its headquarters for a local disaster response.

The agency will host a preparedness presentation and guided tour of the emergency operations center at the Manatee County Public Safety Center, 2101 47th Terrace E., Bradenton, at 9 a.m. Saturday, June 13.

The session is open to the public and will cover how to build an emergency plan, stock a disaster supply kit and how the county coordinates storm response and what local resources are available.

The EOC is where officials manage coordination before, during and after severe weather events.

Registration is required.

For more information, go to mymanatee.org or call 941-749-3500.

LBK hurricane seminar May 14

Longboat Key residents and business owners are invited to a free disaster preparedness seminar 4-6 p.m. Thursday, May 14, at the Longboat Key Club, 3000 Harbourside Drive, Longboat Key.

The event is organized by the Longboat Key Chamber of Commerce.

For more info, call the chamber at 941-383-2466.

— Lisa neff

homes, stored at least 50 feet away from any structures and should not be charged.

Adkins advised residents with portable generators to operate them outside — never indoors or inside garages — and use carbon monoxide detectors. If a home floods, Adkins said an electrical inspection should be completed before power is restored, since water-damaged electrical systems can result in fires or electrocution.

Resources for the 2026 hurricane season

Island law enforcement agencies also are on Facebook — @HolmesBeachPD, @ManateeSheriff and @ BradentonBeachPoliceDepartment.

Websites

Manatee County Emergency Management: mymanatee.org.

Florida Emergency Management: floridadisaster. org.

Federal Emergency Management Agency: fema. gov.

National Flood Insurance Program: floodsmart. gov.

National Hurricane Center: nhc.noaa.gov.

State of Florida Weather Information: stateof-

florida.com/florida-weather. FPL outages: www.fplmaps.com. Anna Maria: cityofannamaria.com. Bradenton Beach: cityofbradentonbeach.com. Holmes Beach: holmesbeachfl.org.

Media resources

TV: Bay News 9, The Weather Channel. Print and digital: The Islander, Islander.org. Radio: WUSF 89.7, NWR KHB32 162.550.

Apps

PulsePoint, CodeRed, MyHurricaneTracker, The Weather Channel, Weather Underground. – Lisa neff

Advertise in The Islander’s 2026 Hurricane Ready supplement. Email ads@islander.org for details and bookings.

bb tingley ConTInuEd FRoM PagE 1 that has generated significant public support and media attention.

Commissioner George Kruse, an at-large representative, also voiced support, saying island municipalities “pay a lot more taxes than they get back.”

Kruse said the county looks for opportunities “where we can give tax dollars back in good faith to make sure that our municipalities are being taken care of by the county as well.”

“It’s about time that we give some of the money back to Bradenton Beach,” Kruse said.

Kruse also said Bradenton Beach residents “need a meeting space” and “a sense of their own space out in Bradenton Beach.”

The library, 111 Second St. N., was established in 1994 through a bequest from the late Beulah Rebecca Hooks Hannah Tingley, who donated more than $600,000 to create a permanent community library.

The library operates through volunteers, donations

Tingley librarian Stephanie Katz speaks to city commissioners May 7, during a meeting at city hall. Islander

and remaining trust fund money tied to the bequest rather than under the county public library system, which has a branch in Holmes

Community center hosts crawfish boil FaR LEFT: a line of people grab crawfish, corn and potatoes May 2 during a crawfish boil in the gymnasium of the Center of anna Maria Island, 407 Magnolia ave., anna Maria. LEFT: Executive director Christopher Culhane holds his crawfish, “Clawpappi Culhane,” after it won a race during the May 2 crawfish boil. Islander

the library, has worked with Tingley librarian Stephanie Katz and the library board to open discussions with county officials and seek help for repairs and preservation efforts.

While county discussions focused on repair funding, Bradenton Beach commissioners also discussed what role the city might play in supporting the library’s long-term operations and maintenance.

Commissioners discussed whether the library could operate under the city’s community redevelopment agency district, a tax increment-funded redevelopment area used to support improvement projects.

Also, during the city meeting, Katz thanked commissioners for continuing efforts to preserve the library, saying residents and visitors alike have formed strong emotional connections to the Tingley.

Katz said the county and city votes gave supporters renewed optimism.

“People are very, very excited to see it still being part of the city,” she said.

Anna Maria receives 8 bids for city pier T-end work

By Ryan Paice Islander Reporter

There is plenty of competition over work on the Anna Maria City Pier’s T-end.

City staff opened bids May 6 from eight contractors in response to the municipality’s two requests for proposals for construction.

The pier has been closed since the 2024 hurricanes destroyed its walkway and damaged the T-end.

While Gibsonton-based Tampa Bay Marine began work rebuilding the walkway months ago, the T-end has remained in disrepair.

Restoring the T-end involves repairing its platform, remediating two buildings and gutting bathrooms.

City officials have also discussed potentially opening the shell of the eastern building — which previously housed the Mote Marine Laboratory’s Marine Science Education and Outreach Center — by replacing windows with hurricane-rated sliding glass doors.

Work on the T-end can occur at the same time as TBM continues construction on the walkway. The pier as a whole is expected to reopen this fall.

In March, the city issued two RFPs: one for demolition and remediation on the T-end and another for the installation of the sliding glass doors.

The first RFP, involving demolition and remediation services, received six bids in response.

The bidders included:

• Sarasota-based Ecosouth Florida;

• Port Saint Lucie-based J&H Painting Services;

• Sebring-based Rapid Response Disaster Services LLC;

• Sunrise-based Restopro770;

• Jacksonville-based Sweetwater Contractors;

• Anna Maria-based Tangerine Group Inc.

In response to the second RFP, involving the hurricane-rated sliding glass doors, the city received two bids from the Tangerine Group and Longboat Key-

based Eason Builders Group.

The bid amounts were not publicly available for either RFP as of May 8.

The proposals will be reviewed by Mayor Mark Short and city staff, who will provide recommendations to city commissioners for consideration at a future meeting.

The city commission’s next meeting will be at 1 p.m. Thursday, May 14, at city hall, 10005 Gulf Drive.

Holmes Beach planners send green building ordinance forward

By Ryan Paice Islander Reporter

An ordinance to incentivize green building in Holmes Beach could soon become law.

Planning commissioners reached consensus May 6 to send the ordinance forward to the city commission for consideration.

The planning commission is an advisory board to the city commission that reviews proposed ordinances and land development regulations.

The board has spent months discussing the ordinance to incentivize green building — structures built or renovated to minimize negative environmental impacts by using sustainable materials and maximizing energy efficiency.

Green buildings are certified by third-party programs, like Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, or LEED, to verify sustainability.

The proposed ordinance would provide incentives for both residential and commercial construction of a green building.

To apply, developers or landowners would need to submit a letter of intent alongside a site plan to the city’s building official detailing the standards for green certification being sought and how the building was designed to meet those standards.

To qualify for incentives, a building must obtain

certification from a green building program or install one or more of the following items:

• A solar photovoltaic system;

• A solar thermal system;

• A battery energy storage system;

• EV ready wiring and panel capacity.

The proposed incentives include discounting permit fees, fast tracking development review, as well as recognition from the city.

Discounts include a 10% reimbursement of permit fees for applicants participating in a green building program and 20% reimbursement on permit fees for applicants installing solar or battery components.

Green building projects will also be given priority

for development services — such as site plan review and inspections — by city staff.

As for recognition, the ordinance states the city will “coordinate a program” on the city’s website, holmesbeachfl.org, to recognize green development projects’ benefits to the community and environment.

Now that the planning commission has agreed to move the ordinance forward, it will go before city commissioners for discussion in a work session.

After that, city commissioners will hold a fi rst reading and public hearing, then back to the planning commission for a final recommendation.

Lastly, the ordinance will go back to the city commission for a second reading.

Pines preservation proposal declined

A proposal submitted by Pines Trailer Park homeowners seeking to preserve the mobile home park, 103 Church Ave, Bradenton Beach, was declined by the property’s ownership group.

Pines HOA vice president Rex Geissler submitted the April 9 proposal to Pines Park Investors LLC, including manager Sam Negrin and former manager Shawn Kaleta. The proposal sought long-term retention of the park as an alternative to redevelopment.

Geissler said May 8 that the proposal was declined, but residents remain in communication with PPI. He

said about 20 residents still live at the park and are seeking clarity regarding any redevelopment plans.

In a text message exchange May 8, Negrin confirmed Kaleta is no longer manager of PPI and said he could not yet comment on the corporate restructuring or the future of the property, but that an update was pending.

The Pines has operated in Bradenton Beach since the 1930s and is one of the area’s oldest mobile home communities.

— Robert anderson

Mayday at the Skyway bridge

On the morning of May 9, 1980, the Summit Venture, a 609-foot-long freighter, was caught in a sudden storm and collided with the Sunshine Skyway bridge, sending a portion of the southbound span — and 36 people — into the water 150 feet below.

Only one person survived.

Around 7:30 a.m. that day, the Summit Venture, captained by Tampa harbor pilot John Lerro, was hit by a squall as it made the turn in the Tampa Bay shipping channel near the bridge.

The onslaught of tropical storm-force winds and heavy rain left Lerro steering blind.

Multiple factors, including the possibility that other ships navigating the channel could run into the Summit Venture if it changed course, led the captain to attempt to guide the ship between the bridge’s main piers.

However, the wind changed direction and pushed the vessel out of the channel. When the captain realized where the ship was headed, he put the vessel in full reverse and dropped the anchor.

He was too late. The bow of the Venture collided with two support piers, one of which failed, collapsing a portion of the bridge.

The dispatch from the Venture was: “Skyway disaster, Skyway disaster. Mayday. Mayday at the Skyway Bridge.”

Car after car after truck after bus drove off the edge of the bridge. In the eight passenger vehicles and the Greyhound bus that went over the edge, only one person survived.

RoadWatch

Eyes on the road

State Road 64/Anna Maria Island Bridge: A water main replacement project is underway along Manatee Avenue and on the bridge, requiring temporary lane closures. Info: amiprojects.io, 941-306-4660, info@amiprojects.io.

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

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

Did you know? Cameras across Manatee show traffic conditions at smarttrafficinfo.org.

Trolley around AMI Manatee County Area Transit’s trolley operates most days 6 a.m.-10:45 p.m. between Coquina Beach in Bradenton Beach and the Anna Maria City Pier in Anna Maria. Riders will find buses to the mainland at the Coquina and Manatee Public beach hubs. There is no fare. For more, go to mymanatee.org/mcat.

— Lisa neff

Plan now!

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

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

Election 2026

AMI qualifying ahead

Candidates for municipal offices on Anna Maria Island will need to qualify in June to run for the Nov. 3 general election.

In Anna Maria, offices up for election include mayor and two commission seats. All are two-year terms. Qualifying begins at noon June 1.

In Bradenton Beach, the Ward 2 and Ward 3 commission seats are up for election. The Ward 3 seat is for a one-year term. Ward 2 is for two years. Qualifying begins at noon June 8.

In Holmes Beach, mayor and two commission seats are up. All are two-year terms. Qualifying begins at noon June 8.

As of May 6, one person — Steven Mark Hebden — was listed as an active candidate for city commission in Holmes Beach.

Qualifying for state, county and special districts also will begin at noon June 8.

Qualifying for federal and judicial candidates took place in late April.

On the calendar

• Why Home Rule Should Be Important to You gathering, 3 p.m. Saturday, May 16, Manatee Unitarian Universalist Fellowship, 322 15th St. W., Bradenton.

Bridge is down

“The bridge is down. Call all emergency equipment onto the Skyway Bridge. The Skyway Bridge is down. This is a major emergency situation. Stop the traffic on that Skyway Bridge,” Capt. John Lerro, Summit Venture pilot, said in his distress call, May 9, 1980, the morning the ship hit the bridge, causing a collapse that killed 35 people. Islander File

Photos: Paul Roat

an Eckerd College marine rescue team was first on the scene at the Skyway Bridge disaster and set about helping with recovery amid the wreckage.

Looking back: the Sunshine Skyway disaster

Paul Roat, a reporter/photographer at the former Islander newspaper in 1980, was on the Sunshine Skyway shortly after the Summit Venture crashed into the bridge to record the aftermath of the May 1980 disaster. Roat also was a longtime editor and reporter for The Islander that started up in 1992. He died Feb. 15, 2014.

To read his recollections of that day, go to islander.org/5-11-05/skyway_diaster.php.

• State, county and special district candidate qualifying, June 8-June 12.

• Anna Maria qualifying, June 1-12.

• Bradenton Beach qualifying, June 8-12.

• Holmes Beach qualifying, June 8-12.

• Registration deadline for 2026 primaries, Monday, July 20.

• Primary election, Tuesday, Aug. 18.

• General election, Tuesday, Nov. 3.

Contact the supervisor of elections

To contact the SEO’s office, go to votemanatee. gov or call 941-741-3823.

— Lisa neff

Memories

I remember like yesterday. I was driving south on Bay Boulevard looking across at the Anna Maria City Pier and a dark heavy cloud in the distance toward the Sunshine Skyway Bridge.

I saw a trio of people tugging at a pair of binoculars at the shoreline and so I looked across the water again and, as I did, I turned my car radio on.

The voice on the radio was screaming and repeating, “Skyway disaster. Skyway disaster. All emergency personnel to the Skyway Bridge.”

I began honking my horn at Paul Roat in his VW bus ahead of me. I jumped out as fast as I could and alerted him.

He asked me to call “everyone” and he took off.

Everyone meant Don Moore, owner and publisher of the previous incarnation of The Islander newspaper.

Paul, a reporter/photographer at the paper, was on his way to the Skyway before I could take a second breath and I headed to the office on Pine Avenue — remember, no cellphones in 1980 — to alert the staff.

He made it to the bridge, where he climbed the span on foot to the peak and began shooting.

I don’t recall him ever speaking about that day, but his photos speak for themselves.

You can see them at islander.org.

Where were you on that day?

In this week’s news, you’ll find the story about the struggles in Bradenton Beach to either keep the small-but-much-loved Tingley Library and the smallbut-highly-regarded police department.

With help in hand, commissioners opted to take a step forward for Tingley.

After threats over several years about razing the library for added parking, the talks have finally turned to a better future for the library.

Bradenton Beach opted May 7 to work with Manatee County to preserve the Tingley Memorial Library with aid for repairs from the county coffers and to maintain the city police department.

But the cost could be high for taxpayers, many of them vacation rental owners who don’t qualify for homestead exemptions.

And there are challenges ahead, such as new bridges linking to the mainland and Longboat Key.

By our last count, the little city on the south end with a historic pier, the popular Moose Lodge, miles of beach and parking and a great nightlife and a variety of boutique businesses, both attracting a great deal of tourism, had only 466 voters.

It’s likened to “the little engine that could.”

Keep chugging. Kudos to all.

— Bonner Joy, news@islander.org

OpinionYour

Hometown deputies

After reading The Islander’s reporting on Bradenton Beach considering using Manatee County Sheriff’s Office for law enforcement services, I wanted to share a thought.

As a resident of Anna Maria, my experience has been nothing but positive. The MCSO has done a fabulous job of policing the city as a small town that happens to have a lot of visitors. In Anna Maria, the MCSO is our local police force. We know the officers, and they take the time to know us.

The Islander Poll

This week’s

question

did Bradenton Beach make the right decision in keeping the police department?

A. Yes.

B. No, hire the sheriff’s office.

C. No, needs more study. To answer, go to islander.org.

Last week’s question

▼ Publisher, editor

Bonner Joy, news@islander.org

▼ Editorial

Robert anderson, robert@islander.org

Joe Bird, editorial cartoonist

Kevin Cassidy, kevin@islander.org

Jack Elka, jack@jackelka.com

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

▼ Contributors

Jacob Merrifield

Capt. danny Stasny, fish@islander.org

Mike Sales

▼ Advertising Sales

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

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

▼ Distribution

urbane Bouchet

Ross Roberts

Judy Loden Wasco

▼ Webmaster

Wayne ansell

Bradenton Beach isn’t Anna Maria. But the professionalism and experience shown by the MCSO leads me to believe they know how to police a small Florida beach town.

May is National Bike Month. When’s the last time you rode a bike?

A. This week. 29%

B. Recent months. 17%

C. Recent years. 23%

All others: info@islander.org

Single

Jeff Rodencal, Anna Maria

D. Umm. Can’t say. 31%

Skimming online

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Submit news, letters: news@islander.org

Playtime at Tingley

Tingley Memorial Library director Stephanie Katz emails: The library board of the Tingley Memorial Library extends its sincere gratitude to the Kiwanis Club of anna Maria Island for their generous support in funding new additions to the library’s children’s area. Thanks to this thoughtful contribution, the new activity table, toy sets and rugs are already bringing joy and enrichment to our youngest members. This kindness helps create a welcoming and engaging space where children can learn, explore and grow. Islander Courtesy Photo

At the market

The Manatee County Public Library archives describe this photo as the anna Maria grocery Store in 1924. C.H. Mcdonald owned the business. “one stood on the sidewalk and bought groceries over the counter.” an outhouse was out back. The sign on the building advertises Ideal Homes. Islander Photo: Courtesy Manatee County Public Library System

Connick’s grocery, owned and operated by dick and June Connick in Bradenton Beach. Jean Connick Thompson writes to the Islander: This is a picture of my dad and mom’s grocery store in Bradenton Beach in 1958. They lived in Irvington, new york, came to vacation on Bradenton Beach in 1957 and fell in love with the city. They went back to new york, sold their home and in 1958 bought the grocery store

Looking back

at 2219 gulf drive n., Bradenton Beach. The store space was up front. dick Connick, who would serve as the city’s mayor, set up a TV repair shop behind the store and the family lived in the cottage at the end of the building. Islander Courtesy Photo Share “Looking back” photos with The Islander. Email news@islander.org.

10-20-30 years ago

From the May 9, 1996, issue

• Fire engulfed a boat in Bradenton Beach. First there was an explosion and then flames — some reaching 40 feet high — and black smoke billowing into the sky. One person suffered first- and third-degree burns and the boat was destroyed.

• Reports came in from across the island of flocks of hummingbirds feeding on golden dewdrop, bougainvillea, salvia, lantana and bottle brush.

From the May 10, 2006, issue

• Anna Maria Elementary became the first school in Manatee to report an entire grade-level passed a Florida Comprehensive Assessment Test. The thirdgrade passed the reading portion of the FCAT.

• The Florida Legislature approved an expansion of Bradenton Beach boundaries in the Gulf of Mexico and Sarasota Bay to allow local law enforcement to police within 500 feet of shore.

From the May11, 2016, issue

• The city of Holmes Beach asked the city magistrate to impose a $148,500 fine against Lynn Tran and Richard Hazen, owners of a beachfront treehouse, for not abiding by a July 2013 code board order.

• Two attorneys fi led 25 Bert Harris Jr. claims against the city of Anna Maria. Together the attorneys allege $7,564,000 in loss of property value in the dispute over vacation rental regs.

• Near an erosion-control groin construction project in Bradenton Beach, police detained three surfers — two in handcuffs. Construction workers and Manatee County sheriff’s deputies had warned the surfers not to surf in the area.

— Lisa neff

Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce visitor stats for April were not available as of May 11.

Compiled by Lisa neff, calendar@islander.org

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Wednesday, May 13

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

ONGOING ON AMI

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

OFF AMI

Friday, May 15

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

ONGOING OFF AMI

• Through May 17, Tuesday-Sunday, Island Players’ “The Outsider,” 10009 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria. Fee applies. Info: theislandplayers.org, 941-920-1362.

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

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

• Through June 28,” ¡Pleibol! In the Barrios and the Big Leagues / En los barrios y las grandes ligas. ¡Pleibol!” exhibit, the Bishop Museum of Science and Nature, 201 10th St. W., Bradenton. Fee applies. Info: 941-746-4131.

• Through June 28, Florida Maritime Museum “Vacationing in Cortez” exhibit, the Bishop Museum of Science and Nature, 201 10th St. W., Bradenton. Fee applies. Info: 941-746-4131.

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

SAVE THE DATES

• May 21, Island Library’s Island Morning Book Club meeting, Holmes Beach.

KIDS & FAMILY ON AMI

Thursday, May 14

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

ONGOING ON AMI

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

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

SAVE THE DATES

• May 30, Island Library’s Dinosaur Expedition, Holmes Beach.

• May 30-July 31, Road Trip USA: Summer Reading Program at the Island Library, Holmes Beach..

DEVINE DESIGN

Live! AMI! Music!

Who’s playing tonight?

our steady gulf breezes make for perfect days — and nights — to enjoy music outdoors. Here is the music schedule for the next week:

• Mademoiselle Paris, 9906 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria, mademoiselleparis.com. Chuck davis, 5:30-8:30 p.m. Friday-Saturday.

• Harry’s Grill, 9903 Gulf Drive, aM, harrysgrillami.com. Pamela K. Ward 6-8:30 p.m. ThursdaySaturday; Skip Eaton 6-8:30 p.m. Sunday; Steve arvey & deacon gibson, 6-8:30 p.m. Monday; Scotty yates 6-8:30 p.m. Tuesday.

• Ugly Grouper, 5704 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, uglygrouper.com. Chad Tallman noon-3 p.m. and Joe Wood 5-8 p.m. Wednesday; Kaleb Woods noon-3 p.m. and Paul dudrich 5-8 p.m. Thursday; Charles Parker noon-3 p.m. and gulfCoastinLife 5-8 p.m. Friday; Cam Stockton noon-3 p.m. and Zion 5-8 p.m. Saturday; Scotty Mac noon-3 p.m. and Marco Coconut 5-8 p.m. Sunday; Sebastian Tenorio noon-3 p.m. and Miguel Lantigua 5-8 p.m. Monday; Charles Parker noon-3 p.m. and Justin Layman 5-8

LEARNING & EDUCATION

ONGOING ON AMI

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

CLUBS & COMMUNITY

ONGOING ON AMI

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

• 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

• May 21, OneBlood blood drive with the Island Library, Holmes Beach.

• May 21, Island Library’s Sunshine Stitchers Knit and Crochet gathering, Holmes Beach.

• May 28, Island Library’s Seaside Quilters, Holmes Beach.

MARKETS & COMMUNITY SALES

ONGOING ON AMI

• Tuesdays and Thursdays, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Shepherd’s Closet thrift store at the Episcopal Church of the Annunciation, 4408 Gulf

p.m. Tuesday.

• Anna Maria Island Beach Cafe, 4000 Gulf drive, HB, amibeachcafe.com. Scott Blum Jazz Quartet 5:15-8:15 p.m. Wednesday; open Jam Band 5:30-8:30 p.m. Thursday; Mike Sales 5:308:30 p.m. Friday; augie Chandler 5:30-8:30 p.m. Saturday; Harold antoine 5:30-8:30 p.m. Sunday; John Reynolds and Scott Blum 5:15-8:15 p.m. Monday; Tim McCaig 5:30-8:30 p.m. Tuesday.

• Wicked Cantina, 101 Seventh Street N., Bradenton Beach, wickedcantina.com. Ross david 6-9 p.m. Wednesday; drew navy 6-9 p.m. Thursday; Hi Fi drifters 2-5 p.m. and Ross david 6-9 p.m. Friday; Hi Fi drifters 2-5 p.m. and Ken Macy 6-9 p.m. Saturday; Hi Fi drifters 2-5 p.m. and danielle Mohr 6-9 p.m. Sunday; Mike Sales 6-9 p.m. Monday; Paul Cataldo 2-5 p.m. and Ken Macy 6-9 p.m. Tuesday.

• Island Time Bar and Grill, 111 Gulf Drive S., BB, islandtimebarandgrill.com. Mike Williams 6:309:30 p.m. Wednesday; Island Hoppers 7-10 p.m. Thursday; Stockton Brothers 7-10 p.m. Friday; dr. dave Band 7-10 p.m. Saturday; damon Earlewine 6:30-9:30 p.m. Sunday; dos Macs 6:30-9:30 p.m. Monday; adam Hocker 6:30-9:30 p.m. Tuesday.

• Coquina Beach Market, 1800 Gulf Drive S.,

Calendar listings

Send listings for The Islander’s events calendar and announcements for the Island Happenings page to calendar@islander.org.

Please, include a phone number for publication, as well as an address, date and time for events

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 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.

SPORTS & FITNESS

ONGOING OFF AMI

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

SAVE THE DATES

• June 6, Center of Anna Maria Island One Love AMI Skimboard Competition, Anna Maria.

• June 26-28, Full Send Fishing Tournament, Anna Maria. OUTDOORS & NATURE

OFF AMI

Friday, May 15

6 p.m. — Game Night at the NEST, Robinson Preserve, 840 99th St. NW, Bradenton. Info: 941-748-4501, mymanatee.org. Wednesday, May 20

9 a.m. — Kayaking for First Timers, Robinson Preserve Expansion South Kayak Launch, Bradenton. Info: matthew.tschirgi@ mymanatee.org, 941-748-4501.

ONGOING OFF AMI

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

PLEaSE, SEE CAlenDAR, nEXT PagE

Library tuning up summer reading program

Manatee County Public Library’s summer reading program returns May 30, running through July 31, with a cross-country theme — Road Trip USA — inviting readers up to age 18 to explore the country through books.

Participants will track their reading using the Beanstack app, earning free books and prizes along the way.

Readers who log 20 hours will qualify for a grandprize drawing and receive two vouchers to a Bradenton Marauders game in August.

Kids can register at any branch, including the Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive.

The library also has two other reading challenges for kids: 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten and 500 Books Before Middle School.

For more information, go online to mymanatee. beanstack.org.

To reach the Island Library, call 941-778-6341. Kiwanis to meet through May

The Kiwanis Club of Anna Maria Island will hold two more weekly meetings and then go on its summer schedule, with monthly meetings until October.

The club meets Saturdays at 8:30 a.m. at Bradenton Beach City Hall, 107 Gulf Drive N.

The May 16 meeting will feature remarks by a representative of Manatee Children’s Service, followed by a May 23 meeting with remarks by chiropractor Ron Gilbert.

The summer schedule includes meetings on June 13, July 11, Aug. 8 and Sept. 12.

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

MUSiC liStingS ConTInuEd FRoM PagE 8

BB, coquinabeachmarket.org. Mike Sales 10-2 p.m. Wednesday; Chuck davis 10-2 p.m. Friday; Chuck davis 10-2 p.m. Sunday.

• Swordfish Grill, 4628 119th St. W., Cortez, swordfishgrillcortez.com. Tim Chandler 5-8 p.m. Wednesday; Ted Stevens 5-8 p.m. Thursday; Marshall Lowery 5-8 p.m. Friday; Tim Chandler 12-4 p.m. and Zack Pomerleau 5-8 p.m. Saturday, Tim Chandler noon-4 p.m. and 5-8 p.m. Sunday; Stockton Brothers 5-8 p.m. Monday; Ted Stevens 5-8 p.m. Tuesday.

• Pork Belly’s Eatery and Catering Co., 9516 Cortez Road W., Bradenton, porkbellyseatery.com. Sugar Bare 6:30-8:30 p.m. Friday; open Mic with Steve Paradis 2:30-5:30 p.m. and Tanya McCormick 6:30-8:30 p.m. Saturday.

• 88 Live Piano Bar, 6640 Cortez Road W., Bradenton, 88livebradenton.com. Westbound & down 7-10 p.m. Wednesday; nauti girl Band 7-10 p.m. Thursday; dueling Pianos featuring Brandon & Jordan 8-11:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday; K-Love & the united Funk Foundation 6-9 p.m. Sunday; 88 Live Jam Band 7-10 p.m. Tuesday.

• Clancy’s Sports Bar & Grill, 6218 Cortez Road W., Bradenton, clancysirishsportspub.com. Rye Road 6-10 p.m. Thursday; Eric Von 6-10 p.m. Friday; aurora Five 5-9 p.m. Saturday; Sugar High 4-8 p.m. Sunday; Craig James 5-8 p.m. Tuesday. Say “hi” if you wind up where I’m playing.

CAlenDAR ConTInuEd FRoM PagE 8

SAVE THE DATES

• June 6, World Oceans Day Dive into Ocean Fun at the NEST, Bradenton.

• June 29, Sea Turtle Conservancy’s sea turtle release, Bradenton Beach.

CALENDAR NOTES

MARK THE DATES

• May 15, Armed Forces Day.

• May 25, Memorial Day.

• June, Pride Month.

• June 14, Flag Day.

• June 21, Father’s Day. GET LISTED!

Send listings to calendar@islander.org.

Island happenings

A vote for ‘The Outsider,’ now onstage at the Island Players

By Lisa neff Islander Editor

“The Outsider” will keep you laughing for two hours, chuckling on the walk to the car after the performance and then ruminating over the nightcap that concludes an evening at the Island Players theater.

The Island Players are closing their 77th season with a stage production of playwright Paul Slade Smith’s comedic satire, which runs through May 17 at the Anna Maria theater, 10009 Gulf Drive.

The two-act play, directed by James Thaggard, deals with politics, government, public service and democracy.

In his playbill note, Thaggard informs the audience: “This year, our semiquincentennial finds many of our fellow citizens overwhelmed with modern American politics. We hope this production provides some much-needed relief and optimism.”

The setting is a governor’s offi ce and the time spans just a couple of days, beginning the morning Lt. Gov. Ned Newley, a behind-the-scenes policy wonk with a severe fear of public speaking, is sworn in as governor following the sudden departure of his scandal-plagued predecessor.

Newley believes in the role of government and public service. But does that make him the best person for the job or the worst?

He’s got an idealistic advisor who believes the brightest are the best, but consultants who think voters want less, a lot less. In their view, the worst candidate is the best candidate.

Thaggard describes the witty and wise comedy as a nonpartisan look at “America’s tendency to choose style over substance, as politicians, pollsters and the press learn what government and politics have to do with real life.”

And, the director says, now is a perfect time to stage the show.

You can tell the cast agrees. The actors are all in on this production, each shining, each rising to the

Out & about

Vacationing on AMI?

Visiting Anna Maria Island? We’d love to see the island through your eyes. The Islander invites vacationers to share photos taken at local restaurants, shops, beaches and favorite hangouts. Send photos to news@ islander.org with names of people pictured, location, date the photo was taken and a contact name.

challenge of their roles to bring memorable characters to the stage.

The production features Jeffrey Steiger perfectly awkward as Newley, along with hysterically funny Jennifer Kwiatkowski as temp hire-turned-“assistant governor” Louise “Lulu” Peaks, Sue Belvo as pollster Paige Caldwell, Eric Johnson as chief of staff Dave Riley, John Andruzzi as campaign guru Arthur Vance, Valerie Lipscomb as TV news reporter Rachel Parsons and Evan Bradshaw as camera operator A.C. Petersen.

The spot-on artistic and production team is led by stage manager Denis Handley, set designer Jan Van Wart, costume designer Pamela Hopkins, lighting designer Ethan Vail and sound designer Mike Lusk, who together establish the mood and keep the show running smoothly.

Performances are 7:30 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday and 2 p.m. Sunday.

Tickets — $28 each — can be purchased online at theislandplayers.org, by phone at 941-778-5755 and at the box office 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Monday-Saturday and an hour before showtime.

“The outsider” in rehearsals. The play is onstage in anna Maria through Sunday, May 17. Islander Courtesy Photo

Cops & courts

Bradenton man arrested for repeated traffic offenses

By Ryan Paice Islander Reporter

Holmes Beach police arrested Bradenton resident Jayson Grossman, 46, April 28 on a third-degree felony charge for a third or subsequent offense for driving with knowledge of a suspended license.

He was also charged with a first-degree misdemeanor for resisting police without violence.

The arrest began with a traffic stop in the 700 block of Manatee Avenue in which the driver switched seats with a passenger before an officer reached the vehicle because the driver lacked a valid license.

The officer found Grossman had multiple offenses for knowingly driving with a suspended license so, with the help of backup, both occupants were arrested and transported to the Manatee County jail.

The woman was charged with a first-degree misdemeanor for resisting police without violence and a second-degree misdemeanor for permitting an unauthorized person to drive.

She was released from jail April 29 after posting $650.

Grossman also was released April 29 after posting $3,000 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, five years of probation and a fine of up to $1,000.

An arraignment will be June 12 at the Manatee County Judicial Center in Bradenton.

Bradenton man gets 6 months for battering police

By Ryan Paice Islander Reporter

Twelfth Circuit Judge Frederick Mercurio on May 1 sentenced Luis Moreno Castillo, 19, of Bradenton, to six months in jail and six months of probation for four third-degree felony charges related to an arrest last November.

Holmes Beach police arrested Moreno Castillo Nov. 23, 2025, after they were called about a man following and shouting at the complainant. Police found Moreno Castillo and attempted to detain him, but he resisted, pushing an officer during the struggle.

Moreno Castillo was charged with three thirddegree felonies for battery on an officer, a third-degree felony for resisting law enforcement officer with violence, a second-degree misdemeanor for loitering/

ConTInuEd FRoM PagE 1

Cosby and officers checking on him in the aftermath of hurricanes Helene and Milton in 2024.

“That’s what I call community service,” Hassett said. “I think they’re worth their weight in gold.”

Jake Spooner, business owner and former city commissioner, said the projected savings with the MCSO would shrink and the city could lose leverage over future law enforcement costs if it dissolved the department.

The city has an interlocal agreement with Manatee for additional law enforcement coverage at Coquina Beach, Cortez Beach and the boat ramps.

“Once you contract this out after year one, then what?” Spooner said. “There won’t be any negotiation strength.”

Thomas Ferrara, who has worked as a BBPD officer since 1997, said the department’s officers collectively bring more than 100 years of policing experience on the island.

He recounted officers working through Helene and Milton. “Our officers left our own damaged homes and our families and didn’t think twice about it,” Ferrara said. “We worked 12-hour shifts, seven days a week.”

“Much of Bradenton Beach’s identity, the warm, safe feeling people get when they visit, is directly tied to this unique style of policing,” he said.

Major Todd Shear of the MCSO Enforcement Bureau attended the meeting but did not speak publicly.

Following public comment, commissioners reached a consensus to decline the MCSO proposal, which was met with applause.

prowling for an unlawful purpose and a second-degree misdemeanor for breach of peace.

By the time of the May 1 hearing, the seconddegree misdemeanor charges had been dropped and Moreno Castillo had pleaded no contest to the other charges.

Mercurio ruled to withhold adjudication against Moreno Castillo for those charges, meaning he could issue a sentence without a formal conviction.

The sentence included six months of jail and six months of probation for each count served concurrently — meaning they run at the same time — with credit for time served.

Moreno Castillo has been in jail since his arrest, most of the sentence has already been served. He will be released later this month.

Island police reports

By Robert anderson and Ryan Paice

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

Anna Maria

No new reports.

Bradenton Beach

May 1, 900 Gulf Drive N., Kokonut Hut, suspicious circumstances. Two women told the BBPD they possibly were drugged while consuming beverages. The women went to HCA Florida Blake Hospital in Bradenton concerned they had been “roofied.” Medical staff advised the BBPD the women refused drug and alcohol testing and their symptoms did not appear consistent with intoxication. The case was closed pending further information.

Cortez

No new reports.

Holmes Beach

April 30, Kingfish Boat Ramp, 752 Manatee Ave. W, camping/Marchman Act. An officer found a vehicle parked at the boat ramp around 3:20 a.m. Two people were sleeping inside. The officer called for backup and tried to wake the vehicle’s occupants, but one of them did not wake. He found a bag containing Xanax inside the vehicle. Manatee County Emergency Medical Services evaluated the unconscious woman. An officer detained her under the Marchman Act so EMS could transport her to the HCA Florida Blake Hospital in Bradenton for treatment. The vehicle’s other occupant was issued a court summons for a camping violation. April 30, Publix Liquors, 505 Manatee Ave., alcohol/camping. An officer found a man sleeping on the ground behind the store with an open bottle of liquor next to him. The officer woke the man, who admitted to drinking from the bottle earlier that evening. The officer issued the man a court summons.

April 30, 500 block of 67th Street, domestic battery. An officer responded to reports of a domestic incident. The complainant told police that she and her daughter got into an argument that escalated and became physical. She said her daughter struck her in the head and pushed her. Another officer interviewed the daughter, who admitted to striking her mother. The daughter was arrested and transported to the county jail.

May 1, Manatee Public Beach, 4000 Gulf Drive, alcohol/camping/obstruction without violence. An officer found a man sleeping in the park around 5:36 a.m., after closing hours, with two open wine bottles near him. The officer woke the man and informed him he was violating city code. The man refused to provide an ID, so the officer arrested him, trespassed him from the property and took him to the county jail.

May 5, 400 block of 62nd Street, burglary. A man reported a handicap placard was stolen from his vehicle, which he parked near the city basketball courts and left unlocked.

“We get rid of our police department, we lose our small-town identity,” Commissioner Ralph Cole said. “Once we lose it, you’ll never get it back.”

Discussions have unfolded alongside a unionization effort within the BBPD. Officers seeking representation through the International Union of Police Associations have said they want workplace protections in a negotiated contract, though a majority on the force have now signed a letter indicating opposition to

unionizing.

In a May 8 interview, IUPA business agent William Bjork said he was pleased commissioners chose to retain the police department and called the public support a tribute to Cosby and the officers.

Bjork said many officers had been concerned about losing their jobs during discussions over contracting with the MCSO.

He added that the unionization effort remains active, with the IUPA awaiting word from the Public Employees Relations Commission on whether it will move forward with a certification vote.

Opportunities for hookups increase as May progresses

By Capt. danny Stasny Islander Reporter

We are in the second week of May and many Anna Maria Island anglers are enjoying a springtime bite, mild temperatures and dry conditions as a result of repetitive high-pressure systems and low rainfall.

Stasny

Water temps in the mid- to upper70s yield great opportunities to fish inshore and nearshore, giving anglers a chance at comfortable conditions before the heat of summer settles into the Gulf of Mexico.

Early morning catch-and-release snook fishing is about as good as it gets, especially if you time your trips around phases of the moon to get the swiftest moving tides. Live and artificial baits will produce during the cooler low-light conditions, about 7-9 a.m.

Casting topwater plugs over shallow flats, where snook are staging, is a great way to see explosive strikes and a hookup with a slot-size or larger snook.

The same applies for live baits. Shiners cast in the same areas will trigger an even quicker response than a lure.

And, since it’s May, there should be snook patrolling the shallows on the beach side of Anna Maria Island. This can offer great sight-casting opportunities, especially for anglers armed with fly rods.

Artifi cials — like soft plastics and suspending baits designed for spinning outfits — also will work.

Just remember, snook are all catch-and-release until September.

As far as nearshore fishing goes, cobia are lingering around artificial reefs and wrecks within 9 miles of shore. In fact, schools of cobia are rising to the surface as they mill over reefs, enjoying the sunshine.

Other predators, some suitable for your coolers, include Spanish mackerel, kingfish and large jack crevalle, which can be found in the same areas as long as the water temps remain moderate. And last, but definitely not least, May is the beginning of tarpon season around Anna Maria Island. It’s time to dust off the tarpon gear and get out along the beaches and passes to patrol for the much sought-after silver king. From now through the end of the month, we should see increasing numbers of fish as they stage in preparation of the long trip offshore to spawn.

On my own Just Reel charters, I’m seeing pretty good catch-and-release snook action during the morning charters. Many fish 20-26 inches are being caught, with larger examples mixed in.

A tarpon primer — know before you go

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission made tarpon catch-and-release in 2013. In addition, the following regulations apply when fishing for tarpon:

• Tarpon gear is limited to hook-and-line.

• Tarpon is a catch-and-release-only species.

• Tarpon tags are limited to one per person, per year (except for charter boat captains).

• Transport or shipment of tarpon harvested with a tag is limited to one fish per person.

• DO NOT GET IN THE WATER WITH TARPON!

For more info on the tarpon fishery, consult the FWC website.

Some large spotted seatrout are lurking in the same areas as the snook, which is adding a surprise here and there to the bite. Big trout are always a welcome addition to the action.

I’m seeing some redfish being caught, although the bite is random, usually occurring while working the mangrove ledges and oyster bars.

As water temps rise, the frequency of blacktip sharks taking a hook is becoming greater, presenting opportunities to catch-and-release the top-of-the-foodchain predators.

Capt. David White is flats fishing for snook, redfish and trout. As May progresses, he says, the linesiders are being found in a variety of spots, ranging from the flats in the backcountry all the way out to the passes, where small groups of fish are gathering before making their way to the beaches. The most consistent bite is on

Michelle gray, visiting anna Maria Island from Barrington, Rhode Island, shows off a 30-inch over-slot redfish she caught and released on her birthday, May 4, in Tampa Bay. She and her fellow fishers also caught some keeper reds while on a guided fishing trip with Capt. Johnny Mattay of aM Charters.

Coast Guard terminates charter a u.S. Coast guard Station Cortez law enforcement crew May 7 boards She’s always Right near Bradenton Beach Marina for allegedly operating as an illegal “bareboat” charter with 11 passengers on board. Violations included failure to possess a valid certificate of inspection, operating without a credentialed mariner in control, failure to maintain a drug and alcohol program and failure to have a valid documentation. Islander Photo:

Courtesy uSCg

the flats and is yielding many hookups while casting live shiners as bait.

White says redfish are on the flats, especially around mangrove islands and oyster bars.

As for the trout, deeper grass flats where clean water and good tidal flow occur is producing the best action, says White.

Tarpon are also an option for White’s anglers. Afternoon and evening outgoing tides are his focus as he keeps clients busy casting live crabs or threadfin herring in the passes and around the bridges, where tarpon are giving up a few hookups per trip and more for lucky anglers.

Lastly, White is putting clients on target to hook up with larger sharks frequenting our local waters during the tarpon run. Bull, black tip and greater hammerhead sharks are the norm.

Capt. Johnny Mattay says inshore fishing is great around Anna Maria Island with some big redfish being caught while working schools on the flats adjacent to mangrove shorelines.

Catch-and-release snook fishing also is going well with plenty of action on fish 20-30 inches.

Trout fishing on deep flats is producing plenty of action on slot-size fish while larger examples are being caught and released while targeting snook on the shallow flats.

Out in the Gulf of Mexico, both nearshore and offshore fishing are proving to be worth the trip. Cobia are being found on much of the structure in the nearshore waters where depths are 20-40 feet. Out deeper, mangrove and yellowtail snapper are a good bet as well as red grouper.

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

Appreciated at AME

Terri Ruise, left, Thomas Powers, Brian Seymour, Holmes Beach Police department officer Christine LaBranche, Rhea Skaggs, anna Maria Elementary principal Katie Fradley, danielle Ladner, nicole o’neill and Leticia Echemendia gather May 5 during a staff appreciation week luncheon at the Holmes Beach school. The event, organized by the aME PTo and catered by the anna Maria general Store, was part of a weeklong celebration. Islander Photos: Courtesy anna Maria Elementary

anna Maria Elementary principal Katie Fradley, left, presents a Making a difference award with assistance from Elle Blackburn, who served as principal for the day, during a school assembly april 30. The event recognized students for exemplifying FIn: friendship, integrity and noteworthiness.

FIN-tastic school day

aME students recognized with FIn awards stand april 30 after an assembly celebrating positive contributions to campus life, including Hendrix Simmons, left, Isaac groham, Tony Thomas, delphie goodman, Jack Stasurack and Keagan Sanger. The awards honor students who demonstrate character and leadership in the school community.

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.

• Friends of the Island Library seeks volunteers, especially with tech and web work. Info: 941-7786341.

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

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

• Kim Bowersox/KW On the Water seeks donated toilet paper and paper towel rolls to make treat training tools for rescued dogs, drop off at AMI Beach and Dog Supply, 5402 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Info: 407-383-3519.

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 Denomination helps people who fulfill AID’s mission statement with financial needs. Info: 941-778-0414.

Kiwanis Club of anna Maria Island members — Bradenton Beach Mayor John Chappie, center, and secretary Sandy Haas-Martens — attend an aME assembly april 30 recognizing FIn award recipients. Kiwanis sponsors the student FIn T-shirts.

Gathering By Lisa neff

Roser retailer set for summer

The Roser Guild Thrift Store will operate select days in May and June and then will close in July and August.

Hours this month and next are 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Tuesday and Thursday, as well as 9 a.m.-noon Saturday.

During the summer closure, the store does not accept donations.

The store is located in the parking lot across from Roser Memorial Community Church, which is at 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria.

For more information, call the church offi ce at 941-778-0414.

Obituaries

Deloris ‘Butch’ Jean Carden

Deloris “Butch” Jean Carden, 85, also known as “Boo Boo,” of Anna Maria Island, died May 2, the date of her 67th wedding anniversary, with her husband by her side.

She was born Feb. 17, 1941, in Akron, Ohio, to Oren Dennis and Mezzie Madelene (Metz) Carter. She moved from Cuyahoga Falls in Summit County to Anna Maria Island in 1974.

A lifelong, dedicated Buccaneers fanatic and season ticketholder, she was an active member of her community. She worked for WBRD radio station in Bradenton and built a career at the Manatee County Tax Collector’s at the island branch office, where she later retired.

She volunteered for the Anna Maria Elementary Parent Teacher Organization and as a softball coach at the island community center. She also worked as a seamstress and tap instructor for Tracey Vita dance studio. She took part in the Democratic Party and the Daughters of the American Revolution.

She was loyal to her family and many friends.

A family memorial will be held at a later date. Memorial donations may be made to Tidewell Hospice.

Mrs. Carden is survived by her loving husband, James (JC); sons, Patrick and wife Connie and Timothy; sister-in-law Gale (Burkhardt) Carter; grandchildren Ryane Fitzwater, Catherine and husband Jake Sikes, Joshua and wife McKenna, and Connor; greatgrandchildren Knox Fitzwater, Ellie Sikes and Ryder; and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

FISH begins election process, leadership transition

By Robert anderson Islander Reporter

The Florida Institute for Saltwater Heritage began preparations May 4 for its annual membership meeting and board elections as the Cortez nonprofit prepares for the departure of its longtime treasurer.

During the meeting, board members discussed forming a nominating committee ahead of the annual election, tentatively scheduled for July 20 at the Cortez firehouse, 4523 123rd St. Court W.

Board members currently up for reelection include Steve Baker, David Cadmus, Tim Canniff, Alex Garner and Cindy Rodgers, according to a meeting agenda.

The board appointed Jane von Hahmann, Lance Plowman and Nathan Meschelle to serve on the nominating committee, which will organize the election process and confirm candidates.

The discussion included concerns about officer positions and succession planning as von Hahmann, the board treasurer, prepares to step away from the post this summer.

Board members acknowledged the challenge of finding a successor, given von Hahmann’s experience and institutional knowledge of FISH and Cortez.

Von Hahmann announced her retirement last month. She’s served with FISH since about 2009 and has been involved with the nonprofit even longer in other capacities.

About FISH

FISH manages several properties in Cortez, including a preserve. The nonprofit is dedicated to the promotion, education and preservation of Cortez and its commercial fishing culture. For more, search Facebook for the Florida Institute for Saltwater Heritage.

Daniel Francis Fels

Daniel Francis Fels, 67, of Holmes Beach, died April 26 in Bradenton after a brief illness.

He was born July 15, 1958, in Indianapolis.

He graduated from Carmel High School in Carmel, Indiana, in 1977.

He spent many years working in the hospitality industry in Indiana and South Florida before building a career as an independent contractor in the communications technology field. He was a passionate sailor, a skill learned from his father, and he found lasting community and purpose on the water. He was a member of the Tampa Sailing Squadron in Apollo Beach, having served two terms as commodore, and as vice commodore, rear commodore and director. He was recently honored with a unanimous vote as a life member.

He also enjoyed golf and bowling, and he valued time spent with family and friends above all else.

He was a loving and loyal husband, father and brother. He will be remembered for his steady presence and his enduring commitment to family and

announced plans to donate $50,000 to FISH to honor her husband’s preservation work and dedication to the fishing village. Stevely, a founding member of FISH, died in 2022. Bert said the donation to be made in early 2027 should fulfill her husband’s wish to help FISH reduce debt. The board is considering a memorial in the FISH Preserve. Islander Photo: Robert anderson

friends, and the quiet way he brought people together — whether on land or sea.

A celebration of life will be June 20 at the Tampa Sailing Squadron in Apollo Beach. For details, visit everloved.com/life-of/daniel-fels.

Memorial donations maybe be made to the Tampa Sailing Squadron’s Memorial Garden: tampasailingsquadron.com.

Mr. Fels is survived by his loving wife, Wendy (Perelman); children Shan Menozzi, Ryan Owens, and Sarah (Owens) Emmanuel; siblings William F. IV, Deirdre and husband Curt McDaniel and Michael and partner April Deshong; and his grandchildren.

present, as well as to those people with ties to the island. Submit to news@islander.org. Obituaries are free — a service of your community newspaper.

Sports — Marauders to skimboard competition on the beach

By Kevin P. Cassidy Islander Reporter

It was another event-filled week on Anna Maria Island with soccer, basketball, golf and horseshoe action filling the score cards.

After seven weeks in the adult soccer league at the Center of Anna Maria Island, Sato Real Estate remains unbeaten with a 7-0 record, six points clear of second-place Swordfish Grill, which is 5-2. Pool America at 4-2-1 and Florida Impact Windows at 3-1-2 hold down third and fourth and complete the teams with better than .500 records. Salty Printing is 3-3 followed by 2-3-1 Anna Maria Island Real Estate, 2-4-1 Bubble Binz and Pizza Social and Duncan Real Estate, both with 2-3-1 records. Solid Rock Construction at 1-4-1 and 0-6 Ross Built complete the standings.

Action May 8 saw Swordfish Grill cruise to a 5-2 victory over AMI Real Estate behind two goals from Kevin Roman and a goal each from Nathan Donella, Chaz Heller and Lucas Wilson. Jeremy Cruz Rodriguez helped secure the victory with eight saves in goal.

Ricky Amaya scored both goals for AMIRE while Julian Bejarano made four saves in the loss.

Pool America recorded a 4-0 shutout victory over Bubble Binz in the second game of the evening, getting a goal each from Christopher Klotz, Martin Konig, Chase Richardson and Marcelo Rubio. Ian Godfrey finished with five saves in the win.

Caleb Arendt had 14 saves for Bubble Binz in the loss.

Sato held off Duncan 4-3 thanks to two goals each from Will Kretzman and Gerardo Urbiola Bolanos and nine saves from Tuna McCracken and Josh Sato.

Duncan received goals from Joey Hutchinson, Jessica Kelly and Matthew Staggs, while Danny Free made seven saves in the loss.

Salty Printing outscored Solid Rock Construction 6-4 behind a hat trick from Tyler Brewer and single goals from Chris Culhane, Ethan Hampton and Edwin Trejo. Connor Ludwig helped preserve the victory with seven saves.

1st pitch

Holmes Beach

Mayor Judy Titsworth, decked out in Islanders 4 Clean Water gear, launches the opening pitch May 2 for a Bradenton Marauders game at leCOM Park, 1611 Ninth st. W., Bradenton.

Titsworth and city staff were invited to the game, which the Marauders won 13-4 over the lakeland Flying Tigers. Islander Photo: Courtesy City of Holmes Beach

Alex Landy scored a pair of goals to lead Solid Rock Construction, which also received a goal each from Daniel Hampton and Rex Kesten in the loss.

Alex Quintero scored three goals and Axel Delarosa added two goals to lead Impact Windows to an 8-4 victory over Ross Built in the last game of the night. Raul Loera added a goal and four assists, while Kali Richardson and Miguel Rodriguez finished with a goal each in the win.

Mack Heitchue scored a pair of goals to lead Ross Built, which also received a goal each from Connor Morse and Alex Villanueva, while Steve Oelfke made 11 saves in the loss.

Adult basketball news

After three weeks of action in the adult 3-v-3 basketball league, Paddy Wagon is on top with a 3-0 record, just ahead of USA Fence, Salty Printing, Bradenton Home Inspections and Gator-Man Pools — all at 2-1. Q Law Injury Attorneys follows with a 1-2 record, while Luxury Services and Mi-Box are 0-3.

The adult action on the gym court kicked off May 7 with Salty Printing defeating Bradenton Home Inspections 22-12, 16-13 behind 14 points each from Corey Jaques and Ajani Poole over the two games.

Paul Hamilton led Bradenton Home Inspections with 16 points in the losses.

The second match of the night saw Q Law sweep USA Fence 22-12, 22-17, 21-14 behind 19 points from Joe Hill and 18 points from Brendan Early.

Dewin Escobar scored 23 points for USA Fence, which also received eight points from Sequel Martinez in the losses.

Paddy Wagon defeated Mi-Box 22-19, 22-4, 22-18 in the third contest of the evening. Jeremi King scored 32 points and Diego Argandona added 26 points to lead

Paddy Wagon to victory.

Logan Heath scored 18 points and Colton Heath finished with 13 points for Mi-Box in the losses.

Finally, Gator-Man Pools defeated Luxury Services 22-15, 22-13, 22-16 behind 29 points from Aaron Duduks and 24 points from Will Kretzman.

Miguel Rodriguez scored 22 points and Wesley Jackson scored 14 for Luxury Services in the losses.

Key Royale golf news

Golf action got started May 4 at the Key Royale Club in Holmes Beach with the men’s weekly modified-Stableford match and a skins game.

First place and clubhouse bragging rights went to Jack Connors with a plus-4, a point better than secondplace finishers Dale Hudson and Quentin Talbert. Mark Micho was alone in third at plus-2, while Brian Comer won the lone skin on the day.

The women played a nine-hole individual-low-net match in two flights May 5.

Lori Waggoner fired a 2-under-par 30 to grab first place in Flight A. Linda Dorsey and Jana Samuels tied for second place at even-par 32, while Leigh Brattain was alone in third place at 2-over-par 34.

Susan VanOrsdel’s 2-under-par 30 gave her first place in Flight B by one stroke over Mary Ann Latham and Marilyn Manzer, while Nina McSparren and Helen Pollock tied for third at 1-over-par 33.

Horseshoe news

Two teams emerged from pool play with 3-0 records and settled things in a playoff during May 6 horseshoe action at the Anna Maria City Hall pits. Steve Doyle and Gersey Fernandes edged Norm Good and Tom Farrington 23-17 to earn bragging rights.

There were two playoff teams during the May 9

By Lisa Neff

Slather up but choose wisely

I spent 72 hours as a vampire.

After a “blue light” treatment at my dermatologist’s office to remove precancerous spots on my face, I went nocturnal — blinds drawn, screens dark, skulking through my home during the day like a creature of the night. The chemical treatment applied to my skin was so photosensitive that ordinary indoor light could have triggered it.

The blue-light special came less than a year after surgery on my nose to remove actual skin cancer. And I’m only 62 — as of May 13. Imagine the good times ahead.

So yes, I am now a believer in sun protection. The brimmed hat lives by the front door. The sunscreen goes on every morning without negotiation.

But standing in the drugstore aisle recently, scanning the wall of SPF options, I found myself worrying about what happens after the sunscreen does its job — when it goes into drains, pools and the Gulf. Am I protecting myself in a way that’s harming the environment?

The Environmental Working Group, a nonprofit focused on consumer advocacy and research, has been exploring that question for about two decades.

When the organization launched its sunscreen guide in 2007, 70% of non-mineral sunscreens con-

sports FROM Page 14

games. Farrington and Tim Sofran held on for a 21-17 victory over Tom Skoloda to win the day’s proceedings.

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

There is no charge to play and all are welcome.

Skimboard competition on the horizon

The Center of Anna Maria Island is hosting the One Love, AMI Skim Competition at the Magnolia Avenue beach Saturday, June 6.

The competition is set for several age groups, including 7-and-under, 8-12, 13-17 and 18-and-over.

The event will run from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., with check in starting at 8:30 a.m.

The cost is $45 per participant.

Space is limited, so the center is urging competitors to signup early.

To register, go to centerami.org/events or by calling the center at 941-778-1908.

The event is still looking for sponsors. If interested, call the center.

Shoreline signage celebrated

a magazine page from the Coppertone era, promoting suntanning for a deep, bronzed look rather than sunscreening for healthy skin.

Islander Courtesy Photo

tained oxybenzone, a chemical linked to hormone disruption and documented harm to coral reefs and aquatic ecosystems. That number has fallen to 9% today.

Another positive: In 2007, mineral-only formulas made up 17% of the market. Today, they account for 43%. Zinc oxide and titanium dioxide — the active

World Ocean Day June 6

Manatee County’s Natural Resources Department will host a free, family-friendly World Ocean Day event 9 a.m.-noon Saturday, June 6, at the NEST at Robinson Preserve in Bradenton.

Attendees can participate in hands-on activities, including building oyster habitats, viewing plankton under a microscope and piloting underwater robots.

Inside the NEST, ocean-themed puzzles and puppets will be available for younger visitors.

Sip n Brew will be on site with coffee and drinks for purchase.

Tickets are available at events.humanitix.com/ world-ocean-day-2026/tickets.

The NEST is at 840 99th St. NW, Bradenton. For more information, contact Emily Laughlin, the department’s education and volunteer specialist, at 941-742-5923 or visit mymanatee.org/ecoevents.

BAGELS & CATERING

abbey Tyrna of suncoast Waterkeeper, right, and Bruce Butler of the anna Maria Island Moose lodge cut a ribbon May 1 to mark the installation of a Wildlife of anna Maria Island educational sign at the Bridge street beach access in Bradenton Beach. The project is part of a beautification and resiliency effort led by the anna Maria Island garden Club, Keep Manatee Beautiful and the Bradenton Beach scenic Waves Partnership Committee. Islander Photos: Robert anderson

Former Bradenton Beach Commissioner Jan vosburgh poses with the sign marking Jan vosburgh Beachfront Park in Bradenton Beach May 1.

ingredients in mineral sunscreens — are the only two filters the FDA currently recognizes as both safe and effective.

They also happen to be a gentler choice for marine environments.

The marine conservation group Save the Reef explains why: Mineral sunscreens do not contain chemicals like oxybenzone and octinoxate, which can cause coral bleaching, damage marine life and disrupt aquatic ecosystems.

Mineral sunscreens also sit on top of the skin rather than being absorbed into it, reducing the likelihood that contaminants will enter the ecosystem.

Among the substances to avoid in sunscreen are oxybenzone, octinoxate, octocrylene, homosalate, PABA, parabens and triclosan.

Don’t bother looking for a “reef-friendly” label because the term is not regulated. The only reliable check is flipping the bottle over and reading the active ingredients list, avoiding the substances mentioned above.

Save the Reef also recommends choosing microsized, or “non-nano,” mineral sunscreens. If the label doesn’t specify otherwise and the formula rubs in clear, it’s likely nano-sized — and nanoparticles may be toxic to marine life in high concentrations.

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

Nesting notes

By Lisa Neff

Ready, set, wait…

Yep, Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring was still waiting to mark its first sea turtle nest of the season as The Islander went to press.

And yes, fans of a most unusual marathon are awaiting the June tag-and-release of a loggerhead sea turtle on Anna Maria Island.

First, about AMITW’s monitoring: The nonprofit began patrolling the beaches April 15, looking for signs of nesting sea turtles.

As of May 10, AMITW had not reported its first nest of the season.

Now, about the Tour de Turtles: AMITW helps the Sea Turtle Conservancy each year with tagging a loggerhead sea turtle for a migration marathon that provides researchers and policymakers with data about loggerheads, while also engaging and informing the public.

The plan is to tag AMI’s entry in the marathon Monday, June 29, at Coquina Beach in Bradenton Beach. The time and the exact location will be decided the morning of the event, which is open to the public.

The turtle will be tagged with a satellite transmitter after it nests and then released into the Gulf of

About AMITW

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

Mexico.

The marathon officially begins Aug. 1 and for the three months after, AMI’s turtle and others will be tracked as they swim to feeding grounds and nest again.

The Tour de Turtles “winner” is the turtle that swims the most miles.

Each tracker sends a signal to polar-orbiting NOAA satellites — the same ones that monitor global weather — every time a turtle surfaces to breathe.

From that data, researchers can pinpoint a turtle’s location, track its route, record dive frequency and duration, and even measure water temperature.

Turtle talks on Mondays

a crowd gathers in June 2025 for the release of a loggerhead tagged for the sea Turtle Conservancy’s Tour de Turtles. Islander File

AMITW’s Turtle Tracks & Shorebird Facts is a free weekly presentation at 10 a.m. Mondays, MayAugust, at Holmes Beach City Hall, 5801 Marina Drive.

For more information, visit islandturtlewatch.com or call 941-301-8434.

By the numbers as of May 10, aMITW reported no nests in the 2026 sea turtle season.

TALK ABOUT HUMIDITY CONTROLS

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OUR CUSTOMER’S ARE #1 WITH US!

Study: $184M hit to tourism 2017-19 red tide outbreak

A recent government-backed review of Florida’s 2017-19 red tide outbreak highlights economic consequences for the state’s tourism sector, alongside ripple effects in property values and coastal industries.

The report, produced by University of Florida researchers with support from federal and regional agencies, estimates tourism losses tied to reduced Airbnb activity alone reached $184 million in 2018.

The Southwest Gulf region — including AMI — where large fish kills were recorded, bore the brunt. The Southwest Gulf accounted for roughly 84% of the losses.

Researchers found that visitor behavior closely tracked the perceived severity of red tide conditions. Travelers were significantly less likely to visit affected Gulf coast destinations during periods classified as severe, indicating that public perception and environmental monitoring play a critical role in tourism demand.

Beyond tourism, the review documents declines in coastal property values: Single-family homes experienced price drops of about 9% during a three-month red tide episode, with the sharpest impacts recorded in Sarasota and Charlotte counties.

The marine economy also saw disruptions:

• Commercial fishing revenues declined, including losses of at least $940,000 in bait shrimp and $2.1 million in mullet roe fisheries over the study period.

• Recreational fishing activity dropped as well, with overall trips decreasing by 10% and offshore excursions falling by 14% during active blooms.

— lisa Neff

March bed tax tops $6.4M

By lisa Neff Islander editor

Tourism in March generated more than $6.4 million in bed tax revenue in Manatee County, up from February’s $3.9 million.

The county collected $6,402,337 in tourist development tax revenue for the month, compared with $5,396,781 in March 2025 and $5,303,173 in March 2024, according to a recent report from the county tax collector’s office.

March’s growth from 2025 to 2026 was 18.6% and collections for the month have doubled over the past five years.

The current tax is a 6% levy on overnight rentals of six months or less. The tax was raised in January 2025 from 5%.

Halfway through the October-September 2025-26 fiscal year, the county has collected $19,526,224 in tourist tax revenue. This is about 61% of fiscal 202425’s total, suggesting the county is on pace to meet or exceed last year’s revenue.

On the island, Holmes Beach’s March tourist development tax earnings reached $1,448,027 — 22.612% of the total for the county.

In Bradenton Beach, the revenue was $318,310 or 4.97% of the total.

In Anna Maria, the revenue was $974,220 or 15.22% of the total.

Some other stats:

• Unincorporated Manatee County generated $2,455,795 or 38.35%.

• Longboat Key generated $506,534 or 7.91%.

• Bradenton generated $570,110 or 8.9%.

• Palmetto generated $129,985 or 2.03%.

The tax collector retains a 3% administrative fee, leaving net March revenue of $6,210,267.

Bortell’s renovates — again

Bortell’s lounge, 10002 gulf Drive, anna Maria, remains closed May 5 for renovations, according to a Facebook post by aMI Drink & Dine Passport. The lounge was last renovated in 2021 by owner steve Rose, who did not respond to calls May 7 and May 8 from The Islander about the closure.

Islander Photo: Robert anderson

The

UPSTAIRS on AMI

Body & sol owner amanda escobio

a

May

Commerce representatives and UPsTaIRs collective members outside the historic Iga building, 9805 gulf Drive, anna Maria. The ceremony marked the reopening of the renovated second-floor space following damage by hurricanes

By law, revenue, must be used to bolster tourism.

amI toUrIsm:

endless season

March

March

source: Manatee County Tax Collector

County

Development Council advises on how to spend resort tax revenue while the county commission decides the expenditures and a yearly budget.

Tourism-related institutions that receive resort taxes include the Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau, the Bradenton Area Convention Center, the Pittsburgh Pirates and Realize Bradenton, a nonprofit dedicated to developing downtown Bradenton. Tourism-related projects that have been funded by the tax include island beach renourishment, construction of the new Anna Maria City Pier and the Gulf Islands Ferry service between Bradenton and the island.

April bed tax data will be released in early June as collections of the money take place this month. The TDC will meet next at 9:30 a.m. Monday, June 15, at the Center of Anna Maria Island, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria.

The M models share similar schedules for their high-performance turbo engines. Every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months.

Engine oil & filter

Tire rotation (if applicable)

Brake inspection

Fluid checks (coolant, brake, washer)

BMW may say closer to 10k, but most pros recommend shorter intervals for M engines

Every 10,000-15,000 miles

Cabin air filter

Brake system inspection

Alignment check

Every 20,000-30,000 miles

Engine air filter

Brake fluid (every 2 years regardless of miles)

Every 30,000-40,000 miles

Spark plugs (sooner due to higher stress)

Fuel system inspection

Induction cleaning (highly recommended)

Every 50,000-60,000 miles

Coolant flush Transmission fluid (if not done earlier) Differential fluid

Every 60,000-80,000+ miles

Major service interval:

Spark plugs (if not already)

Belts, hoses

Possible injector service

Suspension wear components

BLACK AND RED roll suitcases, $20 each, black handbag, carry on, $25, Tigerxbang oar/ paddle for outdoors, $20. 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

LOOKING FOR FRANK from Island Print?

Fine art and gallery-quality canvas prints and nautical charts. He’s available by call or text 941-704-8108. Email frankhtc.fw@gmail. com

TRANSPORTATION

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

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.

SERVICES Continued

PRESSURE WASHING, PAVER sealing, driveway, roof, fence, pool area. Also, window cleaning. Licensed and insured. 941-5653931.

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

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

PC OR T e CH issues? Not sure where to start? With years of experience, I’ll come to you with reliable solutions. Contact gavin at 928-587-1309. www.gse.codes

saRasOTa PaINTINg: INTeRIOR/exterior/ cabinets: Call or text Don, 941-900-9398. Free estimates. Fully insured, twenty years’ experience.

PRIVATE ANNA MARIA Island dolphin tours, sunset cruises and sandbar adventures for up to 12 passengers with Manatee River Boat Rentals and Water Sports. Book your unforgettable Gulf Coast experience online today at Dolphin tours, https://manateeriverwatersports.com/anna-maria-dolphin-tours. Sunset Cruises, https://manateeriverwatersports. com/anna-maria-sunset-cruise s . Sandbar tours, https://manateeriverwatersports.com/ sandbar-tours-bradenton

MUST SELL: MOVING. Scout Winyah Bay 22-foot center console. They do not make them like this anymore! This is a beautiful (best color!) well maintained Scout. It’s by far the best boat of five we’ve owned. It’s perfect for inshore fishing (11-inch draft) and can handle offshore fishing as well as long family outings (60 gallon gas capacity). Check out all the specs with a Google search for the Scout Winyah Bay 2007. Comes with power pole, cushions, bow fishing pedestal, safety equipment, etc. It does not come with a trailer, it is kept on a boat lift at our home. $24,900. 941-284-1215.

HELP WANTED

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

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.

or

in need of some

Well, I’m your girl! Local, reliable, professional! Please, give me a call or text, 941-773

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! s ervices 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

g OT DIRT y WINDOW s ? 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 UFF e R4U FOR TR a N s PORTaTION anywhere in Florida. Properly insured and over 40 years in Bradenton. Dennis, 941812-5930.

IslaNDeR aRCHIve: ufdc.ufl.edu.

SERVICES Continued

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

HOM e WaTCH e R: WH e N you can’t be at home, I’ll watch your home and send video of my inspection. I’m a state Certified Residential 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.

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

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

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

LAWN & GARDEN

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

sHell DelIveReD aND spread. Hauling all kinds of gravel, mulch, topsoil with free estimates. Call larry at 941-795-7775, or “shell phone” 941-720-0770.

HOME IMPROVEMENT

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

g RIFFIN’ s HOM e IMPRO ve M e NT s 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.

l OOKIN g FOR a N 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.

DON al D P e RKIN s Pa INTIN g ll C. Interior/exterior/pressure washing. Island references. dperkinspaint@hotmail.com. 941705-7096.

HOME IMPROVEMENT Continued

g ORI lla DRy Wall R e Pa IR ll C. l et’s solve your drywall problems together. give us a call at 941-286-0607.

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

sCReeN RePaIR: WINDOW screens, frame replacement, screen doors, patios, and lanais. Will pick up and deliver window frames. Call Kent, 941-577-2236. Manatee Home screening.

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

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

RENTALS

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

AVAILABLE NOW AND season: 1BR/1BA, seven-night minimum. carlesvacationrentals. com 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.

2BR/1BA ANNUAL RENTAL: Ground level, 72nd Street, Holmes Beach. Unfurnished, backyard, washer and dryer hookup. No Pets, no smoking. no dishwasher. $2,400/month. 941-447-9672, leave message.

ANNUAL RENTALS AVAILABLE: Holmes Beach, 4BR/3BA unfurnished canalfront, pool home. Completely updated. $7,000/ month. Off Island, One Particular Harbour, 3BR/3BA furnished condo. Lagoon views, covered parking. Country Club-style living, $5,000/month. Hidden Lake: 3BR/2BA furnished lakefront condo, $3,000/month. Other long-term furnished rentals are available. All areas. Applications, first, last and security required for all annual and long-term rentals. Call Wagner Realty, 941-778-2246.

lOOKINg FOR aN eaRly BIRD? you can read Wednesday’s classifieds on Tuesday at islander.org. and it’s FRee!

REAL ESTATE

WINNI e MCH ale , R ealTOR, 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! “ s elling Homes - Making Dreams Come True.”

BR a D e NTON W aT e RFRONT CONDO for sale: Newly updated, fully furnished, 2BR/2B a , 1,100 sf. Carport, patio and docking available. $219,000. Call 941-7049432.

MODERN 3BR/2BA WITH three-car garage on lake with nice fire pit. Located in northern Manatee County with very easy access to I-275 and I-75 for commuters. $398,000 or best offer. Real Estate Mart, 941-356-1456.

CENTRAL BRADENTON: MINUTES to beach. 2BR/2BA completely remodeled condo. Heated pool and spa, pickle ball and tennis courts. Minutes to beach. Give-away price, $210,000. Real Estate Mart, 941-3561456.