About Ami tourism …
Savanna Scardina, a 4-H public speaking contest winner and anna Maria elementary student, addresses Holmes Beach commissioners May 12 at city hall. She discussed how tourists impact the island and their effect on the environment by contributing to pollution and loss of habitat. city commissioners gave her a round of applause for her address. islander Photo: courtesy aMe
By robert anderson islander reporter
In a quiet mainland neighborhood near Anna Maria Island, the sound of pickleball paddles, pool parties and late-night gatherings is replacing the quiet ambiance many residents say they moved there to find.
Residents say the change is being driven by the spread of short-term rentals beyond AMI and into mainland neighborhoods, bringing with it a shift from family homes. Residents say the shift is raising concerns about noise, safety and whether traditional residential neighborhoods can coexist with a growing short-term rental market.
The issue is not simply short-term rentals, but the rise of high-capacity, investor-owned properties operating more like small resorts than traditional homes.
West Manatee Fire Rescue Fire Marshal Rodney Kwiatkowski, who spoke with The Islander April 30, said the scale of the market is larger than many realize, with more than 15,000 properties countywide advertising as transient lodging establishments, including about 4,400 in the WMFR district, which covers Anna Maria Island, Cortez and parts of west Bradenton south of the river.
He said any property rented for stays of less than 30 days more than three times a year falls under that classification, placing it in the same general category as motels and hotels. However, those properties are not held to the same regulations.
“For example, hotels must meet extensive firesafety requirements, while short-term rentals are governed by a narrower set of minimum standards that local agencies are not allowed to strengthen,” Kwiat-
By ryan Paice islander reporter
A potential tax increase in the city of Holmes Beach to the stormwater assessment is once again on the table.
City officials talked May 12 about ways to balance the municipality’s stormwater budget over the next 10 years, including potentially increasing or introducing new stormwater assessment fees.
The current assessment fee is $2.95 per 100 square feet of property, resulting in a $59 annual stormwater fee for a 2,000-square-foot property. It was established in 2019 and has not been increased since.
Last summer, city commissioners shot down a proposed assessment increase to $4.95 per 100 SF due to concerns that residents were financially recovering from the impacts of the 2024 hurricanes.
Commissioners Terry Schaefer and Dan Diggins supported the proposed increase, while Steve Oelfke, Jessica Patel and Carol Whitmore voted against it.
However, a year has passed and the problem persists.
Public works director Herb Raybourn told commissioners at their May 12 meeting that the current assessment is not enough to fund even a minimum stormwater improvement program over the next 10 years.
He presented four 10-year budgets for the stormwater improvement program.
Two of the budgets factored in no assessment increase, with one based on minimum stormwater improvements and the other based on sustaining the city’s current level of improvements.
According to the budgets, the current stormwater tax results in $862,000 in annual revenue for the
municipality.
A minimum stormwater improvement program is expected to cost $700,000-$800,000 annually over the next decade.
While that is less than the annual stormwater revenue, it does not factor in $961,500 in projected carryover costs from the current fiscal year, 2025-26, or a projected $1,215,500 stormwater improvement budget for fiscal 2026-27.
When factoring in those costs, a minimum stormwater improvement program is projected to run a $452,200 deficit after 10 years.
It gets worse if the city wants to sustain its current level of stormwater improvements, which cost about $1,300,000 annually — about $500,000 more per year than the revenue gained from assessment fees.
After a decade, sustaining the current level of improvements without increasing fees would result in a $5,943,200 deficit for the stormwater program.
Raybourn also presented two budgets that factored in increases to the stormwater tax to balance the cost of sustaining the city’s current program.
According to his numbers, a one-time increase of $2.20 per 100 square feet of property — which would raise assessment fees to $5.15 per 100 square feet in fiscal 2026-27 — would result in a balanced stormwater budget after 10 years.
Another way to balance the budget would be to increase the assessment fee by $0.40 every year over the next 10 years, resulting in a tax of $6.95 per 100 SF by fiscal 2035-36.
Schaefer said the current fee is “woefully deficient” for funding the city’s stormwater improvements.
“I think this year we have to look at it rationally,”
at the district’s headquarters. the system is used to identify and track transient public lodging.
kowski said.
He added that tracking and enforcing those standards is difficult.
WMFR conducted roughly 2,500 inspections last year, but hundreds of properties have not responded to inspection requests.
“Our biggest problem is connecting with all the owners,” he said.
He said without a comprehensive registry or cen-
By ryan Paice islander reporter
The Rod & Reel is raising funds to rebuild the destroyed pier, one pint at a time.
Owner Oliver “Oli” Lemke, a German brewer, unveiled the Rod & Reel Golden Ale May 16 at the Rod & Reel Restaurant, 3246 E. Bay Drive, Holmes Beach.
Lemke said May 14 that he collaborated with Bradenton-based Sun Lab Brewing to craft the beer to help raise funds to rebuild the pier, which was destroyed by hurricanes Helene and Milton in 2024.
According to a news release, the golden ale is “a crisp, refreshing and easy-drinking beer inspired by sun-soaked days, ocean breezes and the unmistakable rhythm of island life.”
“More than just a new product, the golden ale
See PIer Beer, Page 5
season’s 1st sea turtle nest on aMI anna Maria island turtle Watch announced the first sea turtle nest of the 2026 nesting season May 12, posting on their social media accounts, “the turtle mommas are finally here! that means our nighttime beach visitors are back and counting on us to keep their journey to and from the gulf a little easier.” read more in nesting notes, page 13.
Bridge replacement set to begin in August the florida department of transportation’s construction of a fixed, high-span bridge to replace the cortez Bridge that links cortez and Bradenton Beach is estimated to begin in august, according to dot public information officer/consultant Jason Heironimus. the prime contractor on the job is SeMa the awarded construction amount is $123 million and the contract period is 1,200 days, excluding holidays and “weather days,” according to Heironimus. islander Photo: Lisa neff
rentals continued froM Page 1
tralized system, identifying and inspecting properties remains a challenge.
In neighborhoods, residents describe a growing disconnect between how homes were designed to be used and how they are being occupied.
Martha Jane Flynn, a director with Pine Meadow Homeowners Association in unincorporated Manatee near Northwest Baptist Church, said her 100-home community has at least 25 short-term rentals. Most operate without issue, she said, but a smaller number of high-capacity, investor-owned properties are driving complaints.
“We have excellent relationships with about 20 of those rentals,” Flynn said. “But these larger-capacity rentals, they’re not here to enjoy the property. They’re here to be a profit center.”
Flynn said her voluntary HOA has no deed restrictions or bylaws to limit short-term rentals.
“We don’t have anything in place to stop them,” she said. “We rely on county ordinances and enforcement.”
She said noise, trash and street parking are the primary concerns, particularly as homes designed for a few residents are marketed to large groups.
“While you might be able to put 20 people inside a house, when you put 20 people outside, you’re talking event, large gathering,” Flynn said.
She added that investors are often encouraged to maximize occupancy and amenities to attract renters.
“They’re being told that if they want high volume and high return, they need to max out the people and build out the backyard,” she said.
In Palma Sola Park, homeowner ChrisAnn Allen
said the issue became personal when a house behind hers was converted into a short-term rental.
“They completely redid the backyard to be a resortstyle experience,” Allen said.
The property includes a lighted pickleball court, pool, hot tub and gathering areas designed for groups.
“The backyard is the selling point,” she said.
Allen said the most noticeable impact has been noise.
“There was a party group there that was unbelievably excessive with their noise,” she said. “You could hear it echoing a block away.”
Allen said even on quieter nights, the constant activity has changed her own home experience.
Even during more low-key stays, she said activity carries into neighboring yards.
“They put the fire pit right on the other side of our fence,” she said. “We hear everything.”
She said the steady sound of pickleball has become a nightly occurrence.
Allen said she moved off Anna Maria Island to avoid that environment.
“It’s extremely disappointing that now our neighborhood feels like an extension of what’s happening on the island,” she said.
As short-term rentals proliferate in less-expensive, less-regulated inland properties, residents say the changes are unfolding in their backyards.
Much of the growth described by residents is occurring in unincorporated Manatee, where regulations differ from those in nearby cities, such as Bradenton, Holmes Beach and Anna Maria, which have
Most government offices will be closed Monday, May 25, for Memorial Day.
Banking institutions and other businesses also will be closed.
The holiday can disrupt trash collection schedules, beginning with regular Monday pickups delayed until Tuesday.
However, Manatee County Area Transit services, including the island trolley, will operate normal routes.
Also, the holiday will not impact operations at local preserves and parks.
— Lisa neff
The city of Holmes Beach will hold its Post-Memorial Day Community Beach Cleanup 8 a.m.-noon Tuesday, May 26, at the 52nd Street beach access.
The event, organized in partnership with Waste Pro and Keep Manatee Beautiful, aims to address litter left behind over the Memorial Day holiday weekend.
For more information, call the city’s code compliance office at 941-778-0331 or email codeenforcement@holmesbeachfl.org.
— Lisa neff
The city of Anna Maria will host a Memorial Day event at 10 a.m. Monday, May 25, at the Center of Anna Maria Island, 407 Magnolia Ave.
The indoor event will include a prayer, remarks and a presentation of photos submitted to the city of fallen service members related to local residents.
Music will be led by vocalist Morgan Bryant. A bagpiper and bugler also will perform.
Short said the program will last about 45 minutes.
Parking will be available at the Roser Memorial Community Church, 512 Pine Ave., with a shuttle to move people to and from the center.
— ryan Paice
adopted local ordinances governing short-term rentals.
Now residents are calling for action, like quiet hours and parking limits.
But local officials say their options are limited. Manatee County Commission Chair Tal Siddique, R-District 3, said state law prevents local governments from newly banning short-term rentals or regulating how frequently they can be rented.
“There are regulations that prevent governments from controlling frequency and duration,” he said.
He cited SB 180, a state law that limits local governments’ ability to adopt new land-use rules that could restrict private property rights, including measures aimed at addressing nuisance concerns tied to shortterm rentals.
“That limits us from passing any restrictive land development codes that might address some of these issues,” Siddique said.
He said the result is a fragmented system in which enforcement is spread across multiple agencies, including the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation, local code enforcement and fire districts.
Siddique said current law leaves counties with few tools beyond enforcing existing noise, safety and licensing rules, even as the scale and intensity of rentals increases.
“You can’t ban them in your community. You can’t really restrict them in any meaningful way,” he said.
He said meaningful changes would likely require action at the state level, including revisiting laws that prevent local governments from regulating the frequency and duration of rentals.
“I think the starting point would be letting local governments begin to regulate that again,” Siddique said.
By ryan Paice islander reporter
The West Manatee Fire Rescue District has high hopes for the old Bradenton Beach Fire Hall. But those hopes may take a while to come to fruition.
Fire marshal Rodney Kwiatkowski told The Islander May 7 that the district has no immediate plans to use the property, which it purchased for $1 million in January.
The property served as a station for the Bradenton Beach Volunteer Fire Department and Anna Maria Fire Control District from 1931 to 2000, when WMFR was created via merger between the AMFCD and the West Side Fire Control District.
Like many other island properties, the fi re hall sustained damage during the 2024 storms.
While the property remained in disrepair when WMFR purchased it, the district does not aim to keep the existing structure, as it was not built to shelter the
Louis Bacon
Elle Palmer Blackburn
James Logan Bobo
McKenzie Ann Campany
Max Andrew Comkowycz
Isla Karaline Conyers
Alexander Charlie Czajkowski
Isabella Esperanza Disalvo
Mabel Virginia Greene
Livingston Stephen Griffith
Benjamin Scott Guth
Phoenix James Harwood
to the 2026 graduating class at Anna Maria Elementary from
Amari Joy Jablonowski
Aria Lillian Sophia Jury
Henry Leibfried
Miles Noah Moss
Easton Andrew Nock
Luke Matthew Plummer
Lillyana Adelynn Prestol-Carmen
Joseph Eliott Rosas
Daphne Esther Sanger
Savanna Cheyanne Scardina
Kirra Michael Taylor
Mason Dinsmore Wheeler
fire apparatuses in current use.
Instead, WMFR officials have expressed hope to redevelop the property into the district’s fourth station to improve response times to the southern end of the island.
A referendum that would have given WMFR the authority to levy and collect ad valorem taxes would have helped fund that redevelopment, but the majority of voters shot that down in March.
Kwiatkowski said the referendum’s failure did not change the district’s long-term plans for the old fire hall, but may have delayed the process.
He said staff is searching for grants to help fund the property’s redevelopment, but none have been found yet and no timeline has been established.
“It’s a slow process,” Kwiatkowski said.
He added that plans could change if the district determines some way to put it to good use ahead of its redevelopment but, in the meantime, the building will remain empty, locked and unused.
“There is no current plan to use it for anything in the interim,” Kwiatkowski said.
Police chief John cosby, at the governor’s Hurricane conference in Palm Beach May 14, accepts the chad reed first responder award for exceptional leadership in response to hurricanes Helene and Milton in 2024. the award was announced in early april. islander courtesy Photo
By ryan Paice islander reporter
A contractor’s mistake made some waves in Holmes Beach.
Luckily, Manatee County employees spearheaded a quick fix and calmed the waters the same day.
County government relations communications coordinator Tina Saldana wrote in a May 15 email to The Islander that a county crew repaired two pipelines struck May 12 by Clearwater-based Lightspeed Construction Group.
Lightspeed, a telecommunication services company, was boring underground to install an internet drop for Keyes Marina when they struck county pipelines, according to Holmes Beach public works director Herb Raybourn.
Saldana wrote that the damaged pipelines included a six-inch water main and a six-inch clay sewer pipe in the 500 block of 56th Street.
The damage resulted in a loss of water service for
Quick trip to shore
a u.S. coast guard operation takes place in the gulf about 122 miles off Longboat Key, where an injured man on a fishing boat was taken by helicopter to a mainland hospital for treatment. islander
Photo: courtesy uScg
properties in the area and above-ground flooding.
The county was notified about the damage and its staff responded that day to make repairs.
Saldana wrote that county crews completed the repairs by cutting in and installing new sections of pipe for both lines.
“The repairs are complete, and there was no contamination associated with the incident,” she wrote. “A private contractor will return to complete the asphalt restoration.”
Saldana added that the county will seek reimbursement from Lightspeed for expenses associated with the incident, and the county was pursuing changes to minimize the risk of such incidents moving forward.
“As part of ongoing efforts to reduce utility strikes and protect critical infrastructure, Manatee County Utilities is deliberately increasing requirements and oversight of directional-boring contractors. Incidents like this reinforce the importance of those enhanced standards and accountability measures,” she wrote.
Coast Guard medevacs fisherman 122 miles west of LBK
A U.S. Coast Guard Air Station Clearwater helicopter aircrew medevac’d a captain on a fishing vessel who suffered a hand injury while hauling line May 12. The operation took place about 122 miles west of Longboat Key.
The helicopter crew took the 56-year-old man to Tampa General Hospital. The man was not identified and the hospital did not provide information about his condition, citing privacy concerns.
Coast Guard watchstanders at Sector St. Petersburg
directed an Air Station Clearwater MH-60T Jayhawk helicopter to conduct the medical evacuation.
Once on scene, the air crew deployed their rescue swimmer, who assessed the patient’s condition and used a rescue basket to safely hoist and bring the passenger aboard the aircraft.
“Executing a medevac more than 100 miles out in the Gulf requires precise execution,” Chief Petty Officer Sean Deaton, a command duty officer assigned to Sector St. Petersburg, said in a news release. “The quick and decisive actions by both our command center and air station personnel led to this successful rescue, demonstrating the proficiency and readiness of our crews to respond whenever and wherever they are needed.”
— Lisa neff
Holmes Beach police arrested Lauren Meyer, 37, of Valrico, May 10 on a third-degree felony charge for alleged abuse of a child without great bodily harm and a first-degree misdemeanor charge for obstruction without violence.
Officers had responded to reports of an intoxicated woman who had allegedly struck a child’s face while on the beach near 46th Street.
A complainant said he witnessed Meyer yell profanity at and strike one of six children with her. Meyer allegedly grabbed the child, “dunked him underwater, then when he came back up, she took a swing with a fist at him,” according to a report.
The officers detained Meyer, who displayed signs of impairment, refused to provide her identity and was uncooperative with police, according to a report.
The juvenile who was reportedly struck told police he accidentally hit Meyer with a ball and she dunked him underwater to get back at him.
HBPD contacted the Florida Department of Children and Families to report the incident and arrested Meyer, who was transported to the Manatee County jail, where she was released May 12 after posting $50,500 bond.
The children were released to a relative.
If convicted, punishment for a third-degree felony includes up to five years in prison. Punishment for a first-degree misdemeanor includes up to a year.
An arraignment will be June 26 at the Manatee County Judicial Center in Bradenton.
— ryan Paice
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 No new reports.
Holmes Beach
May 7, 100 block of 68th Street, disturbance. An HBPD officer responded to reports of a disturbance on the beach. A couple said three women got into a dispute with them and threw objects at them. They said one threatened to hit them with their umbrella. The group was gone by the time the officer arrived.
May 8, Waterline Hotel, 5325 Marina Drive, suspicious circumstances. A complainant said a pair of customers abandoned a tour booking after she asked for their identification and credit card on file. She said she called the card owner, who told her that her card information had been hacked and fraudulently charged.
May 12, 3200 block of East Bay Drive, arrest warrant/trespass. Two officers responded to reports of a trespass and found a man known to have a warrant for his arrest. The officers arrested the man, confirmed the warrant and transported him to the county jail.
May 12, 400 block of 28th Street, removed mangroves. Officers responded to reports of mangroves cut on the bay. The officers found bushes and mangroves on the properties had been trimmed/removed. An officer identified the property owner and contractors working on the properties. The officers took pictures of the trimmed and disposed mangroves.
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.
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
• 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 elections office, go to votemanatee. gov or call 941-741-3823.
— Lisa neff
State Road 64/Anna Maria Island Bridge: A water main project along Manatee Avenue and on the bridge requires lane closures. Info: 941-306-4660.
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, info@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.
Trolley around AMI
Manatee County Area Transit’s island 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 on the trolley or the mainland routes. For more, go to mymanatee.org/mcat.
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.
he said. “In my mind, we have to be thinking about an increase.”
Whitmore said the city should issue a referendum so residents could vote on the matter, instead of the commission making the decision.
Mayor Judy Titsworth recommended against a referendum since it would cost the city money to advertise it, as well as educate voters on the matter.
Diggins asked to explore something similar to the city of Anna Maria’s idea to assess a low fee based on property size and a separate fee based on impervious coverage, so a property’s total tax would be more reflective of their impact on stormwater drainage.
“These businesses that are 100% impervious, they’re paying the same rate as somebody that has half that impervious surface. So it just seems like there’s a better way to do this,” Diggins said.
Raybourn said such a method is possible, but would require city staff to annually audit properties for impervious coverage, something that would take
PIer Beer continued froM Page 1
represents resilience, creativity and a shared commitment to rebuilding something meaningful,” the release states.
The beer will be sold at the restaurant in Holmes Beach as well as other restaurants and retail outlets.
Lemke said he’s happy to offer a way for people to contribute to the pier’s rebuild and get something good in return.
“We’re not asking people to give us money, we’re giving you something for it,” he said.
In regard to the rebuild, Lemke said the permitting process with the Florida Department of Environmental Protection has been completed.
Now, they must complete Anna Maria’s permitting process for building the structure, which has been designed with the same look as the destroyed pier.
Lemke said he hoped to complete the permitting process and obtain financing by the end of the year.
tampa Bay Marine employees put the finishing touches May 15 on the foundation of the anna Maria city Pier’s new 800-foot-long walkway. Mayor Mark Short told the islander May 15 that the contractor had laid the final concrete slab atop pilings and bents earlier that day. next up, tBM will install utility lines to the t-end, then lay the hardwood decking. islander Photo: Lisa neff
extensive time and effort.
“If the direction is yes, we want to go that way, we’re very supportive of it,” he said. “Just understand that we’re either going to have to hire a consultant to do that work, or we’re going to have to do the work ourselves, which would impact other things that we do.”
Titsworth added that the transition to assessing fees based off of property size was already cumbersome and urged commissioners not to change that method.
“It’s a lot of work,” she said. “So this year, I highly recommend you stick with the same way we’ve been assessing it … and look at if you want to do it in increments, like the 40 cents, or do you just want to bite the bullet and do it now?”
There was no public comment.
Commissioners agreed to continue the discussion at a future meeting.
City commissioners also:
• Unanimously voted to approve a $166,665.34 change order for work on a project that involves building and retrofitting stormwater infrastructure along 56th Street and Holmes Boulevard;
• Unanimously voted to authorize Titsworth to execute an agreement with the Public Risk Management of Florida Health Trust to provide health insurance coverage for municipal employees;
• Unanimously voted on a resolution to appoint city treasurer Julie Marcotte as the city’s representative on the PRM Trust’s board of directors, with human resources director Maureen Gluff as an alternate;
• Unanimously voted to appoint Darcie Duncan to a two-year term on the city’s police pension board. Her new term will expire April 1, 2028.
The city commission will meet next at 2 p.m. Tuesday, May 26, at city hall, 5801 Marina Drive.
A livestream of the meeting can be viewed on the city’s website, cityofannamaria.com.
If you sometimes feel muddled by an “alphabet soup” of generational names that are designated by birthdates — you’re not alone.
We’re defined by our birth year, not our age.
I’m not sure where you fit into the spectrum of Baby Boomers to Gen Bs, but I managed to squeeze into the Baby Boomer generation.
If you are a member of Generation X, you turned 18 in 1998 and would now be over 40.
You will always belong to the generation you were born into.
Let me help you with some generational guidelines I found on the internet:
Baby Boomers were born 1946-64. Now 61-79 years old (about 73M in the United States).
Gen X was born 1965-79/80. Currently 45-60 years old (about 65M people in the United States).
Gen Y or Millennials were born 1981-94/96, now 29-44. (about 74M in the U.S.)
Gen Y.1 = 29-33. (32M people in the U.S.).
Gen Y.2 = 33-44 (42M people in the U.S.).
Gen Z members were born 1997-2012. Now 13-28 years old (nearly 69M people).
Gen A or Generation Alpha starts with children born 2012-24, now age 2-13 (about 51M).
And, finally, Gen B or Generation Beta, children born in 2025 through 2039.
Sometimes labeled as “Zillennials” are those at the tail end of Millennials and the start of Gen Z, although some born 2001-12 identify as “Zoomers.”
But that’s not all.
Gen Alpha has several nicknames, such as “Generation Glass” or “iPad Kids” and many have Millennial parents, and also go by “Mini-Millennials.”
Gen B may adopt new names as they emerge but, well, they first need to learn to talk.
Meanwhile, I overheard a couple of Millennials talking, and it seems both proclaimed “Sponge Bob” as their favorite cartoon and one of them even had a favorite “Sponge Bob” quote.
And yet I can’t name a single “I Love Lucy” show, but I love them all.
But for a quote, I look back to an old friend, the late Snooks Adams, born and raised in Cortez and chief of police in Holmes Beach until retirement in 1975, who once told me his response when asked what he thought about all the people who have come here.
“Well, I didn’t want you to come,” was his short retort. But, he continued, “But since you are here, we have to provide for you, with homes, roads, schools and all that is necessary.”
And that changed my thinking — forever. — Bonner Joy, news@islander.org
An osprey was stuck in a tree two houses from us at 30th Street with monofilament fishing line. Our neighbors called us and we reached out to everyone we knew.
Jeannie Bystrom was our connection when we did pelican rescue.
Then we thought of her twin, Holmes Beach Mayor Judy Titsworth, and husband, Steve, with Shoreline Builders, as he might have a long ladder.
This week’s question
Got Memorial Day plans?
A. Yes.
B. No.
C. Not yet.
D. Does work count?
Answer the poll at islander.org.
Last week’s question
Did Bradenton Beach make the right decision in keeping the police department?
Yes. 72%
▼ Publisher, editor
MAY 20, 2026 Vol. 34, No. 30
Bonner Joy, news@islander.org
▼ Editorial robert anderson, robert@islander.org
Joe Bird, editorial cartoonist Kevin cassidy, kevin@islander.org
Jack elka, jackelka000@gmail.com
Lisa neff, lisa@islander.org ryan Paice, ryan@islander.org
▼ Contributors
Jacob Merrifield capt. danny Stasny, fish@islander.org
▼ Advertising Sales
Lisa e. Hlywa, lisae@islander.org ads@islander.org
▼ Lisa Williams info@, accounting@, classifieds@, subscriptions@islander.org
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Judy Loden Wasco
▼ Webmaster Wayne ansell
The bird was up in the tree about 30 feet and then struggled and got away from the branches and dropped to about 20 feet.
After we got the bird out of the tree, Krista Carpenter took it to Wildlife Inc. rescue.
Bottom line is it was a success with the help of all the neighbors!
All others: info@islander.org
Kathy and Vic Caserta, Holmes Beach
an osprey is trapped in a tree on the beach near 30th Street in Holmes Beach.
islander Photos: courtesy Kathy caserta
The Islander welcomes your opinion letters. Letters should be no more than 250 words and include a name, address and contact phone number. Email letters to the editor via news@islander.org.
No, hire the sheriff’s office. 19% No, needs more study. 9%
Military operations near Egmont
a mine-laying ship is off egmont Key circa 1915. the u.S. military operated a mine school at egmont once a year from the end of the Spanish american War, around 1899, to World War i, around 1917. the ship was used for training.
our theme, “We’re glad you’re Here,” originated in the 1980s with a restaurant trade group and it’s stuck with us. We hope everyone feels welcome on aMi. Please, make the most of your island-lifestyle with — the islander!
a mine explodes during a training exercise near egmont Key in the early 1900s. the image was used as a postcard during World War i.
islander Photos: courtesy Manatee county Public Library System
In the headlines: May 16, 1996
• The front page declared, “DEP: It’s official. No megabridge!” and reporting by The Islander included an order from Florida Department of Environmental Protection Secretary Virginia Wetherall that no permit be issued for the construction of a high, fixed-span bridge on Manatee Avenue.
• Holmes Beach commissioners nixed a 161-foot cell tower proposed by GTE at the Holmes Beach Marina near 52nd Street and Gulf Drive. The commission directed GTE to explore other locations.
• The Anna Maria Island Community Orchestra and Chorus and the Anna Maria Island Community Center announced plans to offer summer music programs for youth and adults. The program was called the Academy of Fine Music.
In the headlines: May 17, 2006
• A website ad for sex parties was linked to a property on Flotilla Drive in Holmes Beach owned by Scott and Deanne Hopp. The listing included photographs of the home and images of sexually explicit scenes. The Hopps said the property was a vacation rental.
• Anna Maria commissioners asked the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office to have deputies assigned to the city be more aggressive in enforcing traffic regulations, especially speeding.
From the May 18,
Skimming online
Website: islander.org
Facebook: islandernewspaper
Instagram: @theislanderami
Let’s go shopping!
Blessed and Distressed on 59th Street at Manatee Avenue closed shop, but the good news is many of the vendors relocated and some are at Blue
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Flamingo, Cat’s Meow and Scavengers.
Check out Cat’s Meow, an 8,000 square-foot marketplace where vendors offer coastal, cottage, beach, antique, boho, midcentury modern and other home decor styles. They also offer vintage to fine jewelry and vintage vinyl records.
You might want to lace up your skates, as this large, former skating rink has plenty to offer bargain hunters and anyone seeking quality antiques and unique decor.
Next to Cat’s Meow, there’s Blue Flamingo , another “must stop.” They are always festive but now the collection includes vendors from Blessed and Distressed, Gathering Place and the Sea Hagg. They have three large buildings filled with vintage treasures and
• Local business owners protested after a notice was posted in an empty retail space on East Bay Drive in Holmes Beach announcing new occupants: Dunkin’ Donuts and Baskin-Robbins.
— Lisa neff
you can peruse the islander newspaper archive, dating back to its launch in november 1992, at ufdc.ufl.edu.
nauticals, upcycled and repurposed goods, furniture and decor, garden features, candles, jewelry and work by local artisans, as well as Dixie Belle paints.
Scavengers Marketplace has plenty of vendors to capture your wallet in Palmetto at 2100 U.S. 301. There’s always something new to entice you among the vendors’ eclectic collections.
FYI: Scavengers carries Fusion Paints.
The Vintage Vine Market is a favorite for Tiki and Kitty, who love the fine vintage wares and items with a whimsical twist at this store in historic Old Manatee along the Bradenton Riverwalk. The location in the historic 1910-building oozes charm. And they too are growing and now, taking select consignments by appointment.
And don’t forget, tell people you meet along the way, “The Islander sent me.”
compiled by Lisa neff, calendar@islander.org
Thursday, May 28
10:30 a.m. — Florida Author Book Club meeting, Tingley Memorial Library, 111 2nd St. N., Bradenton Beach. Info: 941-7791208.
• Most third Mondays, 1 p.m., Center of Anna Maria Island Book Club, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria. Info: 941-778-1908, centerami.org.
Friday, May 22
6-8 p.m. — Bradenton Music in the Park series, Bradenton Riverwalk Pavilion, 452 Third Ave. W., Bradenton. Info: 941-3018445.
• 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.
Through Sept. 5, Thursday-Saturday, times vary, Laser Light Nights, the Bishop Museum of Science and Nature, 201 10th St. W., Bradenton. Fee applies. Info: 941-746-4131.
• Through Sept. 16, “The Evocative Lens: Pictorialism and the Rise of Fine Art Photography,” The Ringling, 5401 Bay Shore Road, Sarasota. Fee applies except Mondays. Info: 941-359-5700.
SAVE THE DATES
• June 10, Island Library’s Island Time Book Club, Holmes Beach.
KIDS & FAMILY
Thursday, May 21
5 p.m. — Tween Time Book Club, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Info: 941-778-6341, mymanatee.org.
We
At the Ringling alfred Stieglitz’s “reflections— Venice (a Bit of Venice),” 1899. the photo is exhibited in “the evocative Lens: Pictorialism and the rise of fine art Photography” at the John and Mable ringling Museum of art through Sept. 16. the exhibit chronicles how the american Pictorialists cemented photography as a true artistic medium during the late 1800s and early 1900s. the museum is at 5401 Bay Shore road, Sarasota. for more information, call 941-359-5700 or go to ringling.org. islander Photo: courtesy the ringling
Readers are invited to join the Florida Author Book Club for a discussion of “The Escape Artist” by Brad Meltzer at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, May 28, at Tingley Memorial Library, 111 2nd St. N., Bradenton Beach.
To register, call 941-779-1208 or email bradentonbeachlibrary@gmail.com.
The library is open 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday.
The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature is bringing back its popular Laser Light Nights series, turning the planetarium into a full-sensory concert experience with synchronized lasers, booming soundtracks and classic rock, pop and throwback hits.
The series runs Thursdays-Saturdays May 21-Sept. 5 and features Queen, Elton John, Pink Floyd, Taylor Swift, Metallica, Prince and ABBA.
Other highlights include Laser AC/DC, Laser Bowie, Laser Gaga, Laser Beastie Boys and themed productions like “That ’70s Laser Show” and “Stranger Things.”
• Most Fridays, 10 a.m., Forty Carrots, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Info: 941-778-6341.
• 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.
• June 4, Island Library’s Pottery Dinosaur Painting, Holmes Beach.
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 AMI meets, Bradenton Beach City Hall, 107 Gulf Drive N. Info: 941-730-0016.
SAVE THE DATES
• June 4, Island Library’s Sunshine Stitchers, Holmes Beach. MARKETS & 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 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:
The Bishop describes the event as more concert energy than quiet museum visit, with immersive visuals projected across the planetarium dome, 201 10th St. W., Bradenton.
Tickets are on sale at bishopscience.org.
The museum’s phone number is 941-746-4131.
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
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.
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.
a good laugh? visit the emerson quillin
humor, art, gift@ the HB
5354 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. Ask about our personal and pet portraits. emersonshumor.com
playing tonight?
If you follow the weekly music listings, you might notice some new names in the mix. With peak season in the rearview, some musicians who travel south to play the busiest months, head north for summer gigs, opening more slots for locals. So check out what’s new to you and, if you like what you hear, put in a good word with the venue. Now for this week’s live music performances offerings:
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. Cam Stockton noon-3 p.m. and Joe Wood 5-8 p.m. Wednesday; Chad Tallman noon-3 p.m. and Tropicats 5-8 p.m. Thursday; Raquel Santana noon-3 p.m. and Marco Coconut 5-8 p.m. Friday; Chris Warner noon-3 p.m. and Cody Moore 5-8 p.m. Saturday; Scotty Mac noon-3 p.m. and Noel Harris 5-8 p.m. Sunday; Sebastian Tenorio noon-3 p.m. and Miguel Lantigua 5-8 p.m. Monday; Chris Warner noon-3 p.m. and Justin Layman 5-8 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 5:30-8:30 p.m. Friday; Ted Stevens 5:30-8:30 p.m. Saturday; Harold Antoine 5:30-8:30 p.m. Sunday; Ronald Headley 5:15-8:15 p.m. Monday; Tim McCaig 5:30-8:30 p.m. Tuesday.
Wicked Cantina, 101 Seventh St. N., Bradenton Beach, wickedcantina.com. Ross David 6-9 p.m. Wednesday; Michael Mac 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 Drew Navy 6-9 p.m. Saturday; Hi Fi Drifters 2-5 p.m. and Chris Warner 6-9 p.m. Sunday; Michael Mac 6-9 p.m. Monday; Paul Cataldo 2-5 p.m. and Paul Cataldo 6-9 p.m. Tuesday.
Island Time Bar and Grill, 111 Gulf Drive S., BB, islandtimebarandgrill.com. Taylor Opie 6:30-9:30 p.m. Wednesday; Eric Von 7-10 p.m. Thursday; The CJ Sterlace Band 7-10 p.m. Friday; Nauti-Girl Band 7-10 p.m. Saturday; Doug Deming and the Jewel Tones 6:30-9:30 p.m. Sunday; Frank Dancey 6:30-9:30 p.m. Monday; Gary Alexander 6:30-9:30 p.m. Tuesday.
Blue Marlin, 121 Bridge St., BB, bluemarlinami.com. RJ Howson 5:30-8:30 p.m. Friday; Scott Mac 6:30-9:30 p.m. Saturday.
Coquina Beach Market, 1800 Gulf Drive S., BB, coquinabeachmarket.org. Mike Sales 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Wednesday; Chuck Davis 10-2 p.m. Friday.
Pork Belly’s Eatery, 9516 Cortez Road W., Bradenton, porkbellyseatery.com. Jim Carberry 6:30-8:30 p.m. Friday; Open Mic with Steve Paradis 2:30-5:30 p.m. and Stevie B. 6:30-8:30 p.m. Saturday.
88 Live Piano Bar, 6640 Cortez Road W., Bradenton. 88livebradenton.com. Eric Von 7-10 p.m. Wednesday; 22N 7-10 p.m. Thursday; Dueling Pianos 8-11:30 p.m. FridaySaturday; Shakes Society 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; Cabana Dogs 6-10 p.m. Friday; Dr. Dave Band 5-9 p.m. Saturday; Lisa and the All-Terrain Band 4-8 p.m. Sunday; Stockton Brothers 5-8 p.m. Tuesday. Mike Sales can be reached at mikesalespresents@live. com. His website is mikesalesmusic.com.
aMe fifth-graders play a game during an overnight campout at the school. islander
Photos: courtesy aMe/ Via facebook
Happy campers at Anna Maria Elementary anna Maria elementary fifth-graders, approaching the end of their days at the Holmes Beach school, stretch out on sleeping bags for a May 8 campout. the evening included stargazing, flashlight tag and other games, grilling hot dogs, making s’mores and camping.
anna Maria elementary fifth-grader Savanna Scardina, a 4-H public speaking contest winner, stands May 12 in front of the Holmes Beach city commission dais after delivering her speech, “the negative impacts of tourism.” Look online at islander.org for Savanna’s speech. islander
Photo: courtesy aMe
• May 25, Memorial Day. • June, Pride Month. • June 21, Father’s Day.
calendar@islander.org.
