West Manatee Fire Rescue’s Rodney Kwiatkowski makes a presentation to second-graders at Anna Maria Elementary in October 2018 about fire prevention and the need to create an escape plan in case of a fire. Turn to page 4 for the story.
day
On Election Day Holmes Beach voters were to head to the polls 7 a.m.-7 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 4, at the Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, to choose three
People visit the remains of the Rod & Reel Pier in March. The boardwalk was damaged by Helene last September and the T-end was blown into Tampa Bay by Hurricane Milton in October. An intent to rebuild was announced after Milton but only some straggling pilings and stringers stand at the site one year after the storm. The owner has submitted a request to the city that started the process to rebuild the pier as of Sept. 25. See story, page 2. Islander File
commissioners from a field of four candidates — Steve Oelfke, Jessica Patel, Terry Schaefer and Carol Soustek. Early results at islander.org and full coverage in the Nov. 12 issue of The Islander.
Anna Maria Mayor Mark Short weighed in Oct. 31 by email with news that the city is meeting with its swale project contractor, debris hauling vendors, disaster management vendor, pier walkway contractor and the engineering firm assisting with the pier project and Pine Avenue paver project on project updates and next steps.
Regarding the pier, Short said, “If the weather cooperates, we will start to see pilings in the water in the next two weeks. That phase will take a few months to complete. Once done, then the mechanical connections will need to be done to get power, water, sewer, etc. out to the T-end.”
“I am still targeting fall 2026 opening of a fully functioning pier.”
The city also is finalizing plans for its Veterans
Day parade, which will be at 11 a.m. Tuesday, Nov. 11. Short said, “It should be a great event.”
Also, the city and the Anna Maria Island Historical Society executed a five-year lease agreement for the Pine Avenue city-owned museum property.
Mayor Judy Titsworth also took a break from Halloween planning to fill us in on her news.
Code compliance staff from Anna Maria, Bradenton Beach, Holmes Beach and Longboat Key, as well as Manatee County, gather oct. 29 for a meeting at Holmes Beach City Hall to discuss officer safety. Speakers included West Manatee Fire Rescue Lt. Josh Adkins, left, HB code compliance clerk Sandy olson, second from left, and code compliance officer Nate Brown, center back. Islander
Photo: Courtesy Holmes Beach
She said the city is helping Rodney’s Jamaican Grill in Palmetto with a food and essentials drive for Jamaica by accepting donations at city hall, 5801 Marina Drive.
In other news, the Manatee County Tourist Development Council voted Oct. 30 to recommend funding for long-planned multiuse paths in the city. The funding recommendation now goes to the county commission for consideration.
oh my! It must be a
Holmes Beach city staff and Mayor Judy “Nurse” Titsworth show off their Halloween costumes oct. 31 on the steps outside city hall, 5801 Marina Drive. Islander Photo:
By Ryan Paice Islander Reporter
The permitting process to rebuild the Rod & Reel Pier in Anna Maria has begun.
Owner Oliver “Oli” Lemke and Jack Walter of Bradenton-based Kingfish Coastal submitted an application to the city Sept. 25 for a letter of no objection — LONO — to rebuild the pier, according to documents requested by The Islander.
The Rod & Reel Pier, 875 N. Shore Drive, was built in 1947 and destroyed last year by hurricanes Helene and Milton.
While more than a year has passed since October, when Milton toppled what was left of the structure after Helene’s surge washed through the structure in late September, little progress has been made toward its rebuild.
Before construction can begin, building permits must be obtained from the city and the Florida Department of Environmental Protection.
The DEP had not fulfilled an Oct. 24 request from The Islander for an update on its rebuild requirements as of Nov. 1.
However, the LONO application to the city shows that the process has been initiated.
DEP permitting for such a rebuild requires a cityissued letter of no objection establishing that work beyond the coastal construction control line complies with local zoning and land development codes.
The CCCL is a boundary established by the DEP to protect coastal habitats and property by regulating structures that may cause beach erosion, destabilize
dunes or damage upland properties.
Lemke and Walter’s LONO application contains blueprints to rebuild the pier in almost identical fashion to the previous structure.
According to those plans, the 237-foot-long pier will be rebuilt within the same footprint with wooden pilings and decking, with a two-story restaurant building at the T-end.
The old pier’s north and south access docks, as well as the long bench on the south side of the walkway, will be rebuilt as before.
Proposed changes include the extension of a 42-inch-tall picket-style wooden railing on the walkway, 45 feet out, as well as a new entrance sign.
Plans for the rebuild also include regrading the existing parking lot with a gravel fill and installing a new 500-gallon underground propane tank near the pier’s base.
While the LONO application was submitted in September, the municipality’s review of it did not begin until Oct. 23, when city commissioners voted to approve a consent agenda containing a request to extend the deadline for restoration work at the property.
City code requires nonconforming structures and/ or uses like the pier to be rebuilt within a year of its destruction, unless the city grants an extension.
The request approved in October extends the deadline to rebuild the pier for two years, until Oct. 23, 2027.
Lemke recently said permitting for the pier rebuild should be completed within six months.
Titsworth said the TDC also supported assisting with the city’s 75-year city anniversary celebration with a contribution.
She said the public works department is working on improving and repairing the park amenities, as well as stormwater improvements throughout the city, such as adding scales, upsizing pipes, repairing inlets and outfalls and adding tidal valves in critical areas.
Titsworth also hired a public works supervisor — Addie Javed from Indian River County, who has experience in Sarasota and Manatee counties — to start work in two weeks.
Also happening in the city: new speed tables were being installed on Key Royale Drive to address the safety concerns.
Titsworth thanked HBPD Chief Bill Tokajer for donating a ride-along and, due to demand, a second ride-along for double the money, to the Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch fundraiser at Hurricane Hanks, saying, “This raised a lot of money for the cause.”
Lastly, she put in a plug for the anniversary memorabilia for sale — T-shirts, hats, flags and more — at city hall, commemorating 75 years since the incorporation of Holmes Beach.
— Bonner Joy
By Ryan Paice Islander Reporter
Election season brought out some shady behavior in Holmes Beach.
Heading into election week, HBPD Chief Bill Tokajer told The Islander Oct. 30 that 30-50 political signs had been stolen and no suspects were identified.
In the Nov. 4 election, taking place after Islander press time, there were four candidates for three city commission seats — incumbents Steve Oelfke, Terry Schaefer and Carol Soustek and newcomer Jessica Patel.
Tokajer said that it did not appear that the political sign thefts targeted a particular candidate more than the others since signs for all four candidates went missing.
While there was not much for the police to go on regarding the thefts, there were two cases where the thieves were caught on video.
The first involved an unknown person who took 11
Patel signs and dropped them off at Anna Maria City Hall, where security cameras filmed them.
The second case involved two unknown people in a golf cart who were filmed pulling over on 65th Street and removing a Schaefer sign.
Tokajer said there had been no progress made on identifying the suspects in the security footage.
In the meantime, he said this type of thing is nothing new.
“Every year we go through the same thing,” Tokajer said. “I don’t think we’ve ever had a year that’s gone by that it has not been every single candidate that has lost signs.
“You have different groups who are campaigning for different people and somewhere along the line somebody gets the idea that it’s a good idea to pull up signs, but it’s not.”
Tokajer said anyone identified stealing political signs would be subject to criminal charges, including theft and possibly trespassing.
He said asked anyone who witnessed the theft of a political sign to call the Holmes Beach Police Department at 941-708-5804 and report the incident.
Additionally, concerns about signs that may be in violation of city code should be reported to the municipality’s code compliance department at 941778-0321.
He asked that people refrain from taking action on their own.
The city of Holmes Beach is planning an anniversary party. When do you think the city was incorporated?
A. 50 years ago.
B. 75 years ago.
C. 100 years ago.
D. 150 years ago.
To answer the poll and see poll results, go to islander.org.
Veterans Day brings closings, observances on Nov. 11
Most government offices will be closed Tuesday, Nov. 11, for Veterans Day, a federal holiday.
Schools and libraries also will be closed but local parks and preserves will be open.
Manatee County Area Transit will not operate its handy bus service and most fixed routes, but the island trolley will operate.
There were no posted changes to trash collection.
On Anna Maria Island, the city of Anna Maria will hold the Old Soldiers and Sailors Parade at 11 a.m. on Pine Avenue, with a ceremony to follow at City Pier Park at Pine Avenue and Bay Boulevard.
Off the island, the Manatee County Veterans Day Ceremony and Parade will be at 11:30 a.m. in Palmetto. The parade will begin at the county fairgrounds and end at Sutton Park.
A parade and ceremony also will take place in Parrish at 7550 Fort Hamer Road at 10 a.m. and, at the Sarasota National Cemetery Patriot Plaza, 9810 State Highway 72, Sarasota, there will be a Mass at 3 p.m. — Lisa Neff
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By Ryan Paice Islander Reporter
The West Manatee Fire Rescue District and its staff continue to rack up awards.
WMFR announced via an Oct. 27 news release that Fire Marshal Rodney Kwiatkowski was named the Florida Fire Marshals and Inspectors Association’s 2025 Florida Fire Marshal of the Year.
“The award celebrates Kwiatkowski’s exceptional leadership, innovation, and commitment to advancing fire and life safety both locally and statewide,” the release stated.
The district includes Anna Maria Island, west Bradenton and Cortez.
In 2023, WMFR won the Florida Association of Special District’s District of the Year Award.
Kwiatkowski joined WMFR as a rookie firefighter in 2008, became a part of its Fire & Life Safety Bureau in 2015 and ultimately the district’s fire marshal in 2019.
“Under Kwiatkowski’s direction, WMFR has implemented data-driven community risk reduction initiatives, enhanced short-term rental fire safety programs, and expanded public education outreach, earning statewide and national recognition for measurable improvements in community safety,” the release states.
While he has been named this year’s award winner, he has yet to receive the award.
Kwiatkowski was to receive the award Nov. 3 during the opening ceremony of the 77th annual Florida Fire Prevention Conference at the Coral Springs Marriott. The Islander went to press that day.
Division of State Fire Marshal and Chief Financial Officer Blaze Ingoglia will also recognize Kwiatkowski in Tallahassee during the 2026 Florida Legislative Session.
His name will be engraved on a trophy displayed at Florida State Fire College.
Kwiatkowski called the award a “great honor” in an Oct. 31 interview with The Islander. He said it was a milestone achievement in his career and especially meaningful to him because it recognizes the district’s prevention efforts, which can often go unseen.
“If we do our job well … it keeps the first responders safe and it keeps the public safe,” Kwiatkowski said. “This award just acknowledges and recognizes the work that our team at West Manatee is doing, so it feels great.”
“We just come to work and we try to work hard and make an impact, and I think this award validates what we’ve been doing over the last six years,” he
added. “We’re all excited about it.”
Kwiatkowski said one of his proudest accomplishments as fire marshal was his role in the implementation of WMFR’s new short-term rental inspection program, which aims to ensure that every transient public lodging establishment in the district complies with the Florida Fire Prevention Code.
He said the program is already bearing fruit. According to Kwiatkowski, only 24% of structure fires at single-family homes within the district over the past year occurred at short-term rental properties — a sharp decline from past years, when the same metric was more than three times worse.
“We’ve come a long way,” he said. “It’s made a big impact.”
Kwiatkowski also credited Fire Chief Ben Rigney for helping him be the best fire marshal he can be.
“You have to have a chief that allows a fire marshal to do their job,” he said. “I think it starts there.”
By Robert Anderson Islander Reporter
Bradenton Beach’s Community Redevelopment Agency is moving to update its operations following chair Scott Bear’s input on return from a Florida Redevelopment Association annual conference.
Established in 1992, the CRA, made up of city commissioners and the mayor, directs projects and programs to revitalize the historic commercial district — once deemed derelict — bounded by the bay, the Gulf of Mexico, Cortez Road and Fifth Street South.
Bear, during an Oct. 20 CRA meeting at city hall, discussed the conference held Oct. 14-17 in West Palm Beach. He said the FRA serves as an advisory organization for community redevelopment agencies, helping them interpret and comply with Florida Statute 163, which governs CRA operations. The annual conference is typically held every spring but, Bear observed, Bradenton Beach had not sent a representative since 2019.
Bear said the conference focused on legislative updates made in 2019 and 2024 to the statute, addressing financial reporting, event management and agency oversight, and he listed several key takeaways.
One of the most significant deals with legal representation.
“It’s probably not a good idea — in fact, in one session, it was suggested that it was illegal — to have the city attorney be the CRA attorney,” Bear said. The rationale for the CRA to retain legal counsel independent from the city attorney is to ensure compliance with state redevelopment law. The new rules, he added, create additional layers of documentation and oversight.
The CRA also must:
• Prepare an annual report by Dec. 1;
• Adopt a resolution before March 2026 to extend the CRA’s statutory life beyond 2039;
• Review the CRA plan and website to confirm financial information is current and compliant;
• Ensure CRA-funded events are included in its plan and accompanied by educational materials explaining the CRA’s purpose.
On another matter Oct. 20, the CRA approved the submission of a Florida Forest Service Community Forestry grant application seeking $12,504 to plant 24 palms along Gulf Drive near Bridge Street as part of a scenic-highway beautification effort.
The CRA voted 3-0 to approve the application, which was due that day at 2 p.m. Commissioners Jan Vosburgh and Deborah Scaccianoce were absent with excuse.
The next CRA meeting will be at 9:30 a.m. Thursday, Nov. 20, at city hall.
By Robert Anderson Islander Reporter
Island officials and residents used a Manatee County Legislative Delegation meeting Oct. 27 to call for clearer state regulations on post-storm rebuilding, as well as stronger local control and funding for delayed stormwater and infrastructure projects.
The delegation — state Sen. Jim Boyd and state Reps. Will Robinson Jr., Michael Owen and Bill Conerly — heard nearly 60 speakers present local bills and funding requests ahead of the 2026 legislative session during the meeting at Bradenton City Hall.
Former County Commissioner Joseph McClash delivered criticism over Senate Bill 180, calling it “the ultimate betrayal for our Manatee County,” preventing commissioners from restoring wetlands buffers eliminated by a former board.
Senate Bill 180, which went into effect in July, was meant to help communities recover more quickly
from disaster by preventing sudden local rule changes that could slow or raise the cost of recovery. The law bars storm-impacted communities from imposing new moratoriums, stricter zoning or environmental rules or higher permit fees for 180 days, while requiring expedited rebuilding plans.
But in Manatee County, the law stalled efforts to restore wetland buffers and strengthen mangrove protections to reduce flooding and storm-surge risk.
“What was intended … spiraled into this anti-local-government, anti-Manatee County bill,” he said. “It’s been a trend for years, unfortunately, for the state to take away the powers of local governments.”
However, Boyd, R-Bradenton, defended the legislation.
“I don’t feel like I betrayed the community,” Boyd said. “There were some issues with Senate Bill 180 that we’re going to try to fix.”
Delegation members said they expect revisions in
2026 so local governments again can adopt wetland and stormwater protections.
Speakers from the coastal communities emphasized the need for those protections.
Holmes Beach Commissioner Carol Whitmore requested state aid for stormwater upgrades in and around the 3900 block of Gulf Drive and also East Bay Drive because of flooding and coastal mangrove loss that resulted from last year’s hurricanes.
She also urged lawmakers not to weaken home rule authority or local taxing power.
Meanwhile, Longboat Key Mayor Ken Schneier sought help replacing the town’s sewer line to the mainland and warned against statewide property-tax rollbacks that could drain municipal budgets.
Others focused on resiliency, urging state lawmakers to help communities rebuild smarter without eroding rights to govern their own shores.
Session will begin Jan. 13.
By Ryan Paice Islander Reporter
The West Manatee Fire Rescue District wants to get a piece of the property tax pie.
WMFR commissioners unanimously voted Oct. 21 to adopt a resolution to pose a question to the electorate about authorizing annual ad valorem taxes not to exceed 1 mill beginning in fiscal 2026-27.
The district, which covers Anna Maria Island and west Bradenton, including the village of Cortez, currently levies non-ad valorem fire assessment fees that consist of a residential or commercial base rate plus additional charges for square footage.
State law allows fire rescue districts to levy ad
valorem taxes not to exceed 3.75 mills to use for construction, operation and maintenance of facilities and services, if approved by voters via referendum.
WMFR has pushed for the authority to levy ad valorem taxes for decades to increase revenues, but every previous attempt failed.
In 2004, the district posed the question three times to voters, with the third and final attempt for a 0.5 maximum millage rate — half of the current proposal.
The millage rate is the amount per $1,000 of property value used to calculate property taxes.
If WMFR’s tax referendum — which includes a 1 mill maximum rate — is approved by voters, the owner of a property with an assessed value of $500,000 will pay up to $500 in ad valorem taxes to the district every year — in addition to the assessment alread levied on the property.
Fire Chief Ben Rigney said the referendum would be placed on a March 10, 2026, special election ballot.
If the referendum passes, the district will begin levying the new tax on Oct. 1, 2026, when its fiscal year begins.
Rigney said the resolution’s adoption was the last step the district needed to take before sending the proposed referendum to the Manatee County Supervisor of Elections Office for inclusion on a March ballot.
Commissioner Derrick Warner moved to adopt the resolution. Commissioner Dana Tindall seconded the motion, which passed.
The fire commission will meet next at 6 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 18, at WMFR’s administrative headquarters, 701 63rd St. W., Bradenton.
By Ryan Paice Islander Reporter
Vital parts of Anna Maria’s stormwater drainage infrastructure are getting a facelift.
Anna Maria Mayor Mark Short told The Islander Oct. 31 that Sarasota-based C-Squared CGC was moving forward with a project to clear out and regrade a handful of swales throughout the municipality.
Unlike infiltration trenches, which are designed to filter stormwater before it is collected in drainage pipes, swales are shallow ditches intended to collect stormwater runoff and prevent flooding.
The city has more than 11,000 linear feet of swales, including five main stretches:
• Jacaranda Road from Newton Lane to North Bay Boulevard, as well as between Jacaranda Road and North Shore Drive;
• Magnolia Avenue from Gulf Drive to behind property on South Bay Boulevard, as well as between Magnolia and Spring avenues;
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• North Bay Boulevard from Crescent Road to North Shore Drive, as well as between North Shore Drive and Gladiolus Street;
• Spring Avenue from city hall to behind property at South Bay Boulevard, as well as between Spring and Pine avenues;
• The rear of properties on South Bay Boulevard from Magnolia to Spring avenues.
The restoration project involves clearing overgrown vegetation, excavating them and removing material, then finally laying down cloth and #57 Bahama stone to top the regraded trenches.
The work will improve the effectiveness of the swales and reduce maintenance moving forward.
The city hired C-Squared in August to complete the project for $593,881.25 and the contractor began work in early October.
Short said that, as of Oct. 31, C-Squared was working on clearing the swales of vegetation so they will be ready for trenching.
When the swales are ready, the contractor will excavate two feet from the top of the trenches — which have filled with vegetation and sediment over the years — to increase the volume of stormwater runoff.
“They’re in motion,” Short said.
He wrote in a Nov. 1 text message to The Islander that work was projected to be completed by the end of January 2026.
We often look back at the changes on Anna Maria Island from the perspective of “way back when I arrived here.”
We’re likely all guilty of making the logical comparison in terms of our own timetable — something we call “pecking order.”
It reminds me of an old story I heard about preservationists in Hollywood who were dealing with restoration of the old sign mounted high in the Hollywood hills overlooking the city that simply says in very large letters, “Hollywood.”
The discussion centered on the sign’s many evolutions over the years.
But one argument that struck a note with me was to restore the area to the condition before the sign was erected there.
Yes. Return the hills to their natural state.
The concept did not go over well with the rest of the preservation committee.
But imagine that concept as it would apply to Anna Maria Island.
No condos. No homes. No roads. No bridges. Just mangroves, pine trees and sparkling white sand beaches.
Another hurricane or two might accomplish that, but for now we’re still trying to recover. To get back to our “normal.”
So many islanders were staying in Northwest Bradenton while they awaited repairs, renovations and rebuilds of their island homes that Northwest Bradenton now resembles old island neighborhoods.
The area has become a desired refuge, with some islanders selling out in favor of homes on the mainland, having found short trips to the beach and their favorite shops and restaurants aren’t really all that bad.
The reduction in island students and increase in school choice numbers in the student body at Anna Maria Elementary speaks to the inland migration.
And this week’s municipal election? Are Anna Maria and Bradenton Beach doing such a great job at governing that no one needs to challenge for seats on the commission? Because I feel it’s true in Holmes Beach, where good governance prevails.
Now look at your proposed property tax notice and tell me if you believe the local fire district needs a new ad valorem tax alongside its assessment?
The question will be on a special March ballot, although we’ve yet to hear justification for a new tax.
Stay tuned on the new tax and keep the mom-andpop shops and businesses on your “go-to” list.
We need normal, and that means we need you.
— Bonner Joy
The Islander welcomes your opinion letters
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From the Nov. 2, 1995, issue
• Florida Department of Transportation engineer Glenn Ivey was met with a chorus of boos and jeers when he addressed Cortez residents on why the Cortez Bridge would remain closed for another six weeks for repairs.
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• The Holmes Beach Code Enforcement Board leveled a fine of $1,475 for repeated false alarms at the First National Bank of Manatee. The board had dismissed 18 prior alarms.
From the Nov. 2, 2005, issue
• Anna Maria commissioners were considering a first reading for an ordinance establishing a moratorium on new subdivisions seaward of the coastal construction control line.
• One person died and two people were injured in a crash at the intersection of Manatee Avenue and East Bay Drive in Holmes Beach.
• Bradenton Beach and Holmes Beach voters were set to decide referendum questions on a study for consolidating the island cities into an islandwide government.
From the Nov. 4, 2015, issue
• A headline on the front page said the city of Holmes Beach had prevailed in the dispute over a tree house built without permits on the beach but the dispute continued years after.
• Voters in Anna Maria and Bradenton Beach were heading to the polls to decide municipal elections while Holmes Beach lacked contested races.
— Lisa Neff
Amauara Gunter, 6, strikes a pose as “Sally” from “The Nightmare Before Christmas” during the Trail of Treats costume contest, hosted oct. 31 by the Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce.
Lillian Bergman, 10, as a witch, waits her turn in the judging lineup during the Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce’s Trail of Treats costume contest oct. 31 in Holmes Beach.
Chamber Halloween costume contest kicks off Trail of Treats
The Fortenberry family — mom MacKenzie, dad Andrew and kids Maverick, 3, and Slater, 9 months — show off their creative Halloween spirit during the Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce’s Trail of Treats, held oct. 31 in Holmes Beach. Dad, dressed as a human piñata. Mom, in a floral pajama look, oversaw the bat. Maverick sported paint-on abs. And Slater wore his best “Boss Baby.”
ABovE: Families gather on Halloween outside the Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce in Holmes Beach for costume judging, a tradition of the annual Trail of Treats.
Islander Photos: Robert Anderson
Five-month-old Gabriela Luna Gomez, dressed as Chewbacca and complete with oversized shades, rolls in style during the Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce’s annual Trail of Treats oct. 31 in Holmes Beach.
The o’Doherty family — dad Will, holding 2-week-old Audrey, and mom Grace dressed as bakers, 2-year-old Brooke as a cupcake — show off their sweet-themed bakery costumes during the Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce’s Trail of Treats, held oct. 31 in Holmes Beach. The annual event includes a children’s costume contest and trick-or-treating hosted by island businesses with a map to the sweet spots.
The Village of the Arts will celebrate the rich traditions of Dia de los Muertos with its 21st annual Festival of the Skeletons Nov. 7-8.
Compiled by Lisa Neff, calendar@islander.org
Thursday, Nov. 6
10:30 a.m. — Florida Author Book Club, Tingley Memorial Library, 111 Second St. N., Bradenton Beach. Info: 941-779-1208.
Friday, Nov. 7
2 p.m. — Storytime for Adults, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Info: 941-778-6341, mymanatee.org.
3 p.m. — Adult Coloring Club, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Info: 941-778-6341, mymanatee.org.
Monday, Nov. 10
6 p.m. — Art House Cinema, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Info: 941-778-6341, mymanatee.org.
Wednesday, Nov. 12
6:30 p.m. — Island Time Book Club, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Info: 941-778-6341.
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.
Friday, Nov. 7
6-9:30 p.m. — 21st annual Dia de los Muertos/Festival of the Skeletons, Village of the Arts, 12th Street West and 12th Avenue West, Bradenton. Info: villageofthearts.org.
Saturday, Nov. 8
11 a.m.-4 p.m. — 21st annual Dia de los Muertos/Festival of the Skeletons, Village of the Arts, 12th Street West and 12th Avenue West, Bradenton. Info: villageofthearts.org.
ONGOING OFF AMI
• Through November, Island Gallery and Studios “Feather and Fin/Camera and Clay,” featuring work by Kathy Storm and Susan Swanson. 456 Old Main, Bradenton. Info: 941-778-6648, islandgalleryandstudios.com.
• Through Jan. 11, “Yoshida Hiroshi: Journeys through Light,” The Ringling, 5401 Bay Shore Road, Sarasota. Fee applies except Mondays. Info: 941-359-5700, ringling.org.
• Through April 12, 2026, “Ancestral Edge: Abstraction and Symbolism,” The Ringling, 5401 Bay Shore Road, Sarasota. Fee applies except Mondays. Info: 941-359-5700, ringling.org.
• First Fridays, 6-9:30 p.m., Village of the Arts First Fridays Artwalk, 12th Street West and 12th Avenue West, Bradenton. Info: villageofthearts.com.
• 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.
The two-day cultural celebration will kick off Friday, Nov. 7, from 6-9:30 p.m., followed by Saturday, Nov. 8, from 11 a.m.-4 p.m. in the Bradenton neighborhood around 12th Street West and 12th Avenue West.
The festival will feature traditional elements of
• Nov. 13-23, Island Players’ “Doublewide, Texas Christmas,” Anna Maria.
• Nov. 16, Island Players’ “Murder by Misadventure” auditions, Anna Maria.
• Dec. 10, Center of Anna Maria Island hosts Blue Oyster Cult concert, Anna Maria.
• Dec. 4-21, Manatee Players’ “Frozen,” Bradenton.
• Dec. 7, Bay Chorale’s The Voices of Christmas concert, Bradenton.
• Dec. 13, Dec. 15, Pops Orchestra of Bradenton and Sarasota A Christmas Carol Concert, Bradenton.
• Dec. 31, Bradenton Alive New Year’s Eve Celebration, Bradenton.
Thursday, Nov. 6
10 a.m. — Toddler Playdough, 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.
• Most Tuesdays, 10 a.m., Family Storytime, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Info: 941-778-6341.
• Nov. 21, Family Night at the Center of Anna Maria Island, Anna Maria.
• Nov. 22, Christmas on Bridge Street, Bradenton Beach.
• Nov. 28, Tree Lighting, Palmetto.
• Nov. 30-Dec. 31, Longboat Island Chapel Christmas in the Gardens.
• Dec. 5, Winter Wonderland, Bradenton.
• Dec. 6, Center of Anna Maria Island’s Lester Family Fun Day, Anna Maria.
• Dec. 13, Christmas in Cortez, Cortez.
• Dec. 19, Family Night at the Center, Anna Maria. CLUBS & COMMUNITY ON AMI
Thursday, Nov. 6
1 p.m. — Sunshine Stitchers Knit and Crochet Club, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Info: 941-778-6341, mymanatee.org.
Sunday, Nov. 9
9 a.m.-noon — Center of Anna Maria Island Community Wellness Day, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria. Info: 941-778-1908.
the Mexican holiday honoring deceased loved ones, including memory shrines where attendees can pay tribute to those who have passed. The event also will showcase local art and live music.
For more information, go to villageofthearts.org, email villageofthearts@gmail.com or call a village merchant.
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
• Nov. 14, Anna Maria Island Garden Club Annual Plant Sale, Anna Maria.
• Nov. 19, Palma Sola Botanical Park Garden Workday, Bradenton.
ONGOING ON AMI
• Tuesdays, through April, Anna Maria Community Farmers Market, 9 a.m.-2 p.m., Roser Memorial Community Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Info: 941- 778-1908.
• Most Wednesdays, Fridays, Sundays, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Coquina Beach Market, south Coquina, Bradenton Beach. Info: coquinabeachmarket.org.
ONGOING OFF AMI
• Saturdays, through May, 9 a.m.-2 p.m., Bradenton Public Market, Old Main, Bradenton. Info: 941-301-8445.
SAVE THE DATES
• Nov. 14, Market Night in City Center, Holmes Beach.
• Nov. 15, Kirkwood Christmas Market, Bradenton.
• Nov. 29-30, Mistletoe Market, Holmes Beach.
• Dec. 5, Market Night in City Center, Holmes Beach. LESSONS & LEARNING ON AMI
Wednesday, Nov. 5
10 a.m. — Intro to Crochet, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Info: 941-778-6341.
Saturday, Nov. 8
10 a.m. — Nutritional Tips for Optimal Health, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Info: 941-778-6341. Wednesday, Nov. 12
10 a.m. — Intro to Crochet, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Info: 941-778-6341.
SPORTS & FITNESS ON AMI
Monday, Nov. 10
2 p.m. — Tai Chi, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Info: 941-778-6341, mymanatee.org.
Tuesday, Nov. 11
11 a.m. — Old Soldiers and Sailors Parade, Pine Avenue, Anna Maria. Info: 941-708-6130.
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
SAVE THE DATES
• April 2, 2026, Bradenton Marauders season begins. OUTDOORS & NATURE OFF AMI
Thursday, Nov. 6
10 a.m. — Manatee County Natural Resources Department’s Indigenous Heritage Tour, Neal Preserve Pavilion, 12301 Manatee Ave. W. , Perico
When the smallest town in Texas faces extinction by county bureaucrats, its residents must unite to save their home — all while competing in the “Battle of the Mangers” Christmas decorating contest.
The Island Players will present “A Doublewide, Texas Christmas” Nov. 13-23 at their Gulf Drive theater in Anna Maria.
The holiday comedy comes from the writing trio of Jessie Jones, Nicholas Hope and Jamie Wooten, known for “Dearly Departed” and their work on “The Golden Girls” TV show.
Director Kelly Wynn Woodland leads a cast of Island Players ensemble members in the production, which was originally scheduled for 2024 but postponed due to hurricanes Helene and Milton.
The Off Stage Ladies of the Island Players are co-producing.
Performances begin at 7:30 p.m. Tuesdays-Saturdays and 2 p.m. Sundays.
Tickets cost $28 for adults and $18 for students and can be purchased online, as well as at the box office 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Monday-Saturday and an hour before the show.
The playhouse is at 10009 Gulf Drive. Anna Maria.
For tickets and more information, visit theislandplayers.org or call the box office at 941-778-5755.
FRoM PAGE 8
941-748-4501.
Friday, Nov. 7
10:30 a.m.-1 p.m. — Manatee County Mixon in Bloom Community Day, Mixon Fruit Farms, 2525 27th St. E., Bradenton. Info: shelby.reece@mymanatee.org, 941-748-4501.
Saturday, Nov. 8
9 a.m.-1 p.m. — Kringles and Kayaks shelter benefit for the Salvation Army, Robinson Preserve, 840 99th St. NW, Bradenton. Info: 941-748-5110.
Sunday, Nov. 9
4:30 p.m. — Sunset Poetry Walk, Neal Preserve Pavilion, 12301 Manatee Ave. W., Perico Island. Info: emily.laughlin@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
• Dec. 18-21, Palma Sola Botanical Park’s Winter Nights Under the Lights, Bradenton.
KEEP THE DATES
• Nov. 11, Veterans Day.
• Nov. 27, Thanksgiving.
• Dec. 25, Christmas.
ANNOUNCEMENTS GET LISTED!
Send listings to calendar@islander.org.
SINCE 2006
The Anna Maria Community Farmers Market continues through the season at Roser Memorial Community Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria.
The weekly market runs 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Tuesdays through April.
Vendors sell produce, baked goods, fresh juices, coffee, tea, meat, poultry, art, jewelry, wellness products and other goods.
The event also features nonprofits, including Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring, dispensing information.
Market presenters include Roser Church, the Center of Anan Maria Island and DBTB Juice Bar & Bakery.
Vendors interested in participating can email dbtbami@gmail.com.
For more information, call the center at 941-7781908.
The 2025-26 season is beginning to flower. The Anna Maria Island Garden Club’s annual plant sale will be 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Friday, Nov 14. The event will be in the fellowship hall at Roser Memorial Community Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria.
Shoppers will find herbs and vegetable plants, as well as flowering plants along with baked goods and raffle chances.
Proceeds will go toward the club’s mission of “island beautification.”
For more information, go to amigardenclub. com or call 941 405-3534.
The Cortez Village Historical Society is seeking a volunteer to spearhead publication of a new edition of the “Cooking in Cortez” community cookbook.
A notice from the nonprofit read, “If you enjoy writing, organizing recipes and preserving local traditions, we’d love your help! This is a chance to celebrate the flavors and heritage of Cortez while creating something meaningful for generations to come.”
The CVHS also seeks volunteers to serve as greeters and docents at the Cortez Cultural Center in the village, as well as help catalogue a collection of historical materials.
People interested in volunteering can email cvhs2016@aol.com.
People can reset their body and mind at the upcoming Community Wellness Day, a donation-based event featuring yoga, strength training, breathwork, sound healing, ice baths and Reiki.
The Center of Anna Maria Island, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria, will host the wellness gathering 9 a.m.-noon Sunday, Nov. 9, 9 a.m.-12 p.m.
The free event is open to center members and nonmembers, with any proceeds supporting the growth of the center’s wellness department.
Hosts McKinna Anderson, Carly Burdick, Devinne Whittaker and Jen Richeson will lead various wellness activities throughout the morning.
Attendees are asked to arrive 10-15 minutes early for check-in.
For more information, contact the center at 941778-1908.
Artists’ Guild of Anna Maria Island member Tim Cunningham works on a painting oct. 10 during the Holmes Beach Night Market at the gallery, 5414 Marina Drive. The next events will be 5-7 p.m. Nov. 14, Dec. 5, Jan. 9, Feb. 13, March 13 and April 10. Islander Photo: Lisa Neff
Gathering By Lisa Neff
Roser Memorial Community Church will hold its annual Thanksgiving worship at 10 a.m. Thursday, Nov. 27, in the historic chapel, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria.
A notice said, “There will be an open mic for testimonies, as we encourage one another with what God is doing among us.”
In the past, the church has hosted a community dinner on the holiday. There will not be a Thanksgiving dinner this year.
However, community members are encouraged to support the Roser Food Pantry with donations to keep it stocked.
The pantry serves more than 500 families a year, providing them with bags of groceries and supermarket gift cards.
For more information, call the church at 941-7780414.
The Longboat Island Chapel, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, seeks volunteers to help decorate the sanctuary for Christmas.
The decorating will start at 10 a.m. Nov. 27 and will be followed by a Thanksgiving dinner at 1 p.m.
For more information, call 941-383-6491. Send announcements to lisa@islander.org
Hope Seeds International is among more than a dozen nonprofits to participate in the 2024 Kirkwood Christmas Market at Kirkwood Church, 6101 Cortez Road W., Bradenton. This year’s 30th annual Christmas market will be 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 15, at the church. More than a dozen charities will set up booths with items for sale by donation. over the years, the market has raised $285,000 for 89 organizations. For more information, go to kpcbradenton.org or call the church at 941-7946229. Islander Courtesy Photo
J. Kenneth Guscott, 92, formerly of Anna Maria Island, died Oct. 28. He had recently moved to Massachusetts to be near family.
The Episcopal Church of the Annunciation will open a thrift shop with a grand opening set for Saturday, Nov. 8.
The Shepherd’s Closet Thrift Shop, 4408 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, will be open that day 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Sales will be cash only.
For more info, call the church at 941-778-1638.
Assistance sought on AMI
• All Island Denominations accepts financial donations at P.O. Box 814, Anna Maria, FL 34216. Info: 941-778-4769.
• Anna Maria Island Concert Chorus and Orchestra seeks volunteers, donors and a venue space. Info: info@amicco.org.
• Anna Maria Island Historical Society, 402 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, seeks donations for restoration and volunteers. Info: 608-444-0084.
• Anna Maria Island Privateers seeks a covered building and/or land for the Skullywag, sleigh and other items. Info: amiprivateers.org.
• Cortez Village Historical Society seeks volunteers to catalogue historical materials, serve as docents at the Cortez Cultural Center and edit a new edition of the “Cooking in Cortez” cookbook. Info: cvhs2016@ aol.com.
• Florida Maritime Museum in Cortez, which is closed for renovations and repairs, seeks a temporary space — a pop-up space — for public exhibits. Info: 941-708-6120.
He was born in London, England.
• Friends of the Island Library seeks volunteers, including for website management and graphic design. Info: 941-778-4255.
AME third-graders carry their class banner oct. 18 in the Fall Festival Parade.
He grew up in Crookham and served in the Royal Air Force. In 1958, he moved to the United States. He was an electrical engineer and worked for companies in New York, Massachusetts and North Carolina. He and his wife, Joyce, moved to Florida in 1995.
The Guscotts were members of the Anna Maria Island Power Squadron for many years. He was their original webmaster and he developed a member database. He was squadron commander in 1998.
The family plans to hold a private service. Memorial donations may be made to St. Jude’s or to Bishop Animal Shelter, 5718 21st Ave. W., Bradenton.
Mr. Guscott is survived by his son Brian and wife Karen and daughter Julie and husband Eric.
Wilhelmina Kelly, who lived in Holmes Beach for 13 years and now resides at Harbour Isle, shows off the island city’s new flag oct. 27 while sporting other merch, including a shirt, hat and koozie. Kelly told The Islander oct. 30 that she’s excited to attend Holmes Beach’s 75th Anniversary Celebration next month. Islander Photo: Courtesy Holmes Beach
• Island Players in Anna Maria seeks volunteers in every area to “come and be part of our family.” Info: 941-920-1362.
• Tingley Memorial Library, 111 Second St. N., Bradenton Beach, seeks Saturday volunteers to lend books and chat with patrons. Info: 941-779-1208.
• Wildlife Education and Rehabilitation Center in Bradenton Beach seeks gift cards for supplies. Info: 941-778-6324.
• Roser Food Bank welcomes applicants for food assistance, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Info: 941-778-0414.
• All Island Denominations offers financial help. Info: 941-778-4769.
— Lisa Neff
Email listings to lisa@islander.org.
Obituaries are offered as a service to residents and families of residents, both past and present, as well as to those people with ties to the island. Submit to news@ islander.org. Obituaries are provided free — a service of your community newspaper.
By Robert Anderson Islander Reporter
With many storm-cleared lots sitting idle and rebuilds moving slower than anticipated, some island officials warn that depressed property values could squeeze city budgets into next year.
Bradenton Beach Police Chief John Cosby, who also is code enforcement administrator and emergency management director, said Oct. 29 that the city is tracking vacant parcels and the pace of ground-up construction.
“The biggest concern for us is that our property value went down after the hurricanes,” he said. “We’ve got 31 vacant lots.”
Demolished properties impact a city’s ad valorem tax base, reducing revenue until rebuilding occurs. Cosby added that construction crews also are thin
at many sites.
“We’re definitely not seeing as many day laborers as we used to … the workforce on properties definitely is smaller than what we would have seen in the past,” Cosby said.
The city’s code compliance officer, Evan Harbus, told The Islander Oct. 30 that contractors cite insurance delays, higher bids and inconsistent labor as persistent challenges.
Another factor in the slowdown is the cost of materials needed to meet modern building codes.
Following hurricanes Helene and Milton, many island homeowners were required to rebuild to new zoning and hurricane codes, since properties damaged beyond 50% lose their grandfathered status. Under FEMA and Florida building code rules, new construction must meet modern flood-elevation and wind-resistance standards.
“Bringing it up to 2025 code is more costly,”
By Robert Anderson Islander Reporter
A push to rebuild Bradenton Beach’s business community following hurricanes Helene and Milton gained 2025-26 financial backing from the Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau.
The Bradenton Beach Merchants Association, led by Drift-In AMI’s Derek Williams, secured $25,000 for the fiscal year beginning Oct. 1 to promote events.
The funding comes from the county’s tourist development taxes, which the BACVB administers under the oversight of the tourist development council and the board of county commissioners.
Williams said the partnership with the BACVB began in 2022. “After I bought the Drift-In, I inquired about what business support or partnerships existed,” he said. “That’s when I was introduced to the CVB and to director Elliott Falcione, who shared their mission and how we could work together to promote Bradenton Beach.”
At the time, the merchants group had largely gone dormant. Within a year, Williams helped reorganize and expand the association. “We went from having two or three members to having 25 or 30,” he said. “We set our vision statement — driving business to the merchants on Bradenton Beach.”
The organization relaunched its Sundown Get Down street festival in October.
Williams said the TDT funding will be used for event production, marketing and entertainment.
He added that the association’s long-term plan includes seeking additional funding and sponsorships
to expand its events calendar.
Williams said he requested multi-year support from the BACVB and has approached some businesses about sponsorships.
Speaking to The Islander Oct. 29, Falcione said, “Part of our role is brand positioning in our target markets. A partnership like we have with the Bradenton Beach merchants through activation makes a lot of good sense. We’re happy to do it — it’s the right thing to do.”
Harbus said, noting that prices for windows, sheetrock, screws, wood and trusses have gone up since last September.
Holmes Beach also is seeing a slowdown in poststorm rebuilding, according to code compliance chief James Thomas, who said many property owners have delayed construction due to costs, limited labor and stricter codes.
“I’ve been doing code enforcement for over 30 years and I’ve never seen two hurricanes hit a city as bad as we were hit,” Thomas said.
Before the storms, only a few homes required major repairs each year but afterward Thomas estimated 20% of the city’s housing needed significant work.
Meanwhile, in Anna Maria, Mayor Mark Short said Oct. 31 that new construction in recent years helped cushion the financial blow that hit neighboring island cities.
“We had just over 200 properties that qualified as uninhabitable,” Short said, referring to storm damage. “However, for the city of Anna Maria the number of new constructions that have happened over the past several years offset the loss in assessed values for the uninhabitable properties.”
Short said he didn’t expect a major decline in next year’s assessments, noting that most of 50 homes recently demolished were already counted as uninhabitable when the property appraiser set values in January.
Others say revenue outlooks hinge on how quickly empty lots return to the tax base.
Bradenton Beach Mayor John Chappie said the city is modeling budget scenarios ahead of the next tax roll while leaning on reserves if needed.
“We have to be fiscally responsible,” Chappie said. “For decades, we’ve understood the importance of keeping a healthy reserve of uncommitted funds and that’s helped us tremendously. But we still have challenges.”
With federal reimbursements pending and property values unsettled, he said it’s “kind of a wait and see,” but he also offered reassurance. “We’ll get through it. We’re going to survive,” he said.
Regarding reimbursements, Short said, “Since the shutdown, we’re all feeling the pain of the responses from FEMA … we’re all still waiting on money that we spent a year ago.”
IN IWED, CONTACT ISLANDER “AD-VISER” INGRID McCLELLAN AT 941-778-7978.
By Lisa Neff Islander Editor
The Manatee County Tourist Development Council endorsed spending nearly $400,000 in tourist revenue to help fund multimodal paths in Holmes Beach.
The TDC, chaired by Commissioner Amanda Ballard, R-District 2, on Oct. 30 unanimously voted to recommend the board of county commissioners allocate tourist tax funding for the project.
Two years ago, facing a TDC chaired by former County Commissioner James Satcher, similar requests from the city faced opposition. Holmes Beach officials and county commissioners, including Satcher, were at frequent political odds and the TDC had questions about whether the island cities were working together on multimodal paths.
Elliott Falcione, executive director of the Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau, said the island cities are now working on “integrating these pedestrian-bike trail paths up and down the 7-mile island” for “the greater good.”
The city is proposing a 6-foot path along Marina and Gulf drives and 65th Street to improve access to the beaches and other recreational areas. The path would be built:
• Along Marina from 56th Street to 66th Street to connect to a path that extends into Anna Maria;
• Along Gulf Drive to connect the sidewalk on 66th Street to sidewalks at Holmes Boulevard.
The project is estimated at $528,412, with the city paying $133,401 and the TDC share at $395,011.
A graphic shows plans for Holmes Beach’s multimodal paths. Islander Courtesy Image
“Please, keep in mind that the city of Holmes Beach is the second-highest collector of the tourism tax, with unincorporated Manatee County being the No. 1 collector,” Falcione said.
Several council members, including Ballard, Holmes Beach Commissioner Dan Diggins and hoteliers Eric Cairns and Tony DeRusso, spoke in favor of the city’s request,
“Multimodal transportation is an amenity for tourism,” DeRusso said. “It’s almost an expectation. … I did come from California. And I can tell you, in California, multimodal transportation is everywhere. In the county that I lived in, I could get on an e-bike or an e-scooter, Rollerblades or whatever, and I could access my entire county. … It’s an incredible amenity.”
By Ryan Paice Islander Reporter
A seasoned public works veteran is joining the city of Holmes Beach’s ranks.
Mayor Judy Titsworth announced Oct. 28 that she offered the public works director position to Addie Javed. The municipality’s former city engineer and public works director, Sage Kamiya, resigned in October to become Sarasota’s city engineer.
Javed has 30 years of public works experience and was named a “Top 10 Public Works Leader” earlier this year by the American Public Works Association.
He worked as the public works director and floodplain administrator for Indian River County until he resigned last month. Titsworth said Javed and his
family live in Brandon, so he traveled to the East coast every week for work and back for weekends at home.
She added that he wants to spend more time with family and eventually retire on the West coast, so he was happy to take the job.
“When he saw this opportunity to become public works superintendent, even though it’s a smaller city, he jumped on it because he loves it so much,” Titsworth said.
Javed will start the job on Monday, Nov. 10, and begin with a $154,000 annual salary, according to documents requested by The Islander.
Senior project manager Anthony Benitez will continue as interim public works director until then.
In another vote, the TDC unanimously recommended awarding $15,000 in tourist development tax revenues to Holmes Beach for sponsorship of the city’s 75th anniversary celebration in December.
In addition to the financial support, Falcione said the BACVB would promote the celebration on its social media platforms.
The next TDC meeting will be at 9 a.m. Monday, Dec. 15, at the county administration building, 1112 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton.
About the TDC
The Manatee County Tourist Development Council recommends to county commissioners how to spend the tourist development tax — the 6% tax collected on overnight rentals of six months or less. TDT spending must boost and develop tourism.
Gulf Drive/State Road 789: The Florida Department of Transportation will be milling and resurfacing about 5 miles of Gulf Drive from Coquina Beach in Bradenton Beach to State Road 64/Manatee Avenue in Holmes Beach overnight through May 1, 2026. Motorists can expect single-lane closures overnight. Info: swflroads.com/project/451021-1.
Cortez Bridge: The utility relocation project is continuing in preparation for the construction of the new bridge. People can expect the presence of work crews through next spring, as well as intermittent flagging and bike lane and sidewalk closures. Info: 941306-4660, info@amiprojects.io, amiprojects.io. 75th Street West at Manatee Avenue West : Manatee County is working on its 75th Street West Improvements Project from 19th Avenue West to Second Avenue West, including at the Manatee Avenue intersection. Motorists can expect delays. Info: mymanatee.org/75th.
Did you know?
People can click a camera to see conditions, including on the Anna Maria Island Bridge and on the Manatee Avenue and Cortez Road approaches to the island, at smarttrafficinfo.org.
— Lisa Neff
Island police reports
Anna Maria
No new reports.
Bradenton Beach
Oct. 25, 2200 block of Avenue B, fleeing the scene. A Bradenton Beach police officer was dispatched to reports of a vehicle leaving the scene of a crash. A complainant reported that a motorist fled after striking a mailbox and auto bumper. Officers located and arrested the alleged motorist, who was transported to the Manatee County jail in Palmetto. Cortez
Holmes Beach
Oct. 21, Seabreeze Construction AMI, 5372 Gulf Drive, suspicious circumstances. A woman reported to the Holmes Beach Police Department that her company hired a contractor and provided them a company credit card. However, she said the contractor was no longer responding to attempts to contact them after spending almost $10,000 with the credit card.
Oct. 23, 7200 block of Gulf Drive, missing firearm. A visitor from Michigan reported that he brought a firearm with him to a vacation rental but noticed it missing when he was packing to leave. He provided a serial number for the missing firearm.
Oct. 26, 5600 block of Guava Street, suspicious circumstances. A homeowner reported that someone changed the locks at his property. An officer contacted the owner of a vehicle videotaped at the property and learned it was a rental. The renter was a property manager who told police that the house was being foreclosed, resulting in the lock change.
Streetlife is based on incident reports and narratives from the BBPD, HBPD and MCSO.
— Robert Anderson and Ryan Paice
By Ryan Paice Islander Reporter
A pair of ordinances impacting docks and plat approvals are nearing adoption in Holmes Beach. City commissioners voted 4-0 Oct. 28 to approve motions to send the ordinances to second readings and potentially final public hearings.
Commissioner Terry Schaefer was absent with excuse.
The proposed dock ordinance would replace sections 66.106-66.113 of city code that cover construction standards for seawalls with an article regulating docking and mooring facilities.
Development services director Chad Minor said much of existing code was kept intact, but it was rewritten and reorganized. “We kind of tore it apart and put it back together, so we didn’t lose anything
with the rewrite,” he said.
On the other hand, the plat approval ordinance was crafted by city attorney Erica Augello to bring the city into compliance with state statute.
Municipal code currently requires city commission approval to plat and replat properties but Senate Bill 784 — which passed earlier this year — requires plat and replat applications to be approved on the administrative level.
The proposed ordinance would establish the administrative approval process, with Minor as the officer in charge of final decisions.
Both ordinances will go before the planning commission at 3:30 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 5, at city hall, 5801 Marina Drive. They will then go back to the city commission at 2 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 18, also at city hall.
Linda Kemp, 72, of Bradenton, was arrested Oct. 24 in Holmes Beach on a second-degree misdemeanor for allegedly driving under the influence of alcohol.
A Holmes Beach police officer observed Kemp around 8 p.m. driving from Sunrise Lane onto a section of Gulf Drive that was closed due to a crash and an officer stopped Kemp.
The officer noticed signs of impairment from Kemp and called MCSO to conduct an investigation.
Kemp failed field sobriety exercises and registered
The 2025 Manatee County Tax Roll has been delivered to the Tax Collector by the Property Appraiser. Collection of Ad Valorem and Non -Ad Valorem Real Estate and Tangible Personal Property Taxes begins on November 3, 2025.
The 2025 Tax Bills will be mailed on or about November 3, 2025. You can pay your taxes, print duplicate bills and receipts, and sign up for free property tax email alerts on taxcollector.com.
All City and County taxes assessed on the Tax Roll are entitled to these discounts for early payment: November 3 through December 2 4% December 3 through December 31 3% January 1 through January 31 2% February 1 through February 28 1%
Payable with no discount in March | Delinquent April 1
The applicable discount is based on the date your payment is received or postmarked. Payments received or postmarked after March 31 must be paid in certified funds and must include interest and advertising which accrue when taxes are delinquent.
Mail | PO Box 25300, Bradenton FL 34206-5300
For tax payments sent by mail: print bills and receipts on taxcollector.com or your cancelled check may serve as your receipt.
Appointments are required for ALL in-person transactions! Visit taxcollector.com to schedule an appointment ( limit 4 transactions per appointment).
Locations | Monday Friday 9 am 5 pm East Manatee Branch, 10705 Technology Terrace, Bradenton West Manatee Branch, 819 301 BLVD W , Bradenton
Does not apply to 2025 taxes. You can apply online for the 2026 Quarterly Installment Plan at taxcollector.com Real Estate & Personal Property Taxes for the 2026 tax year may be paid in 4 installments if application is filed with the Tax Collector by April 30, 2026. If currently enrolled in the installment plan, your account is automatically renewed.
breath samples with results of 0.148 and 0.149 grams of alcohol per 210 liters of breath. The legal blood alcohol level limit is 0.08.
Kemp was arrested and taken to the county jail. She was released Oct. 25 without posting bond.
If convicted, punishment includes up to 60 days in jail, six months probation and a fine of up to $500.
Arraignment will be Dec. 2 at the Manatee County Judicial Center in Bradenton.
— Ryan Paice
By Kevin P. Cassidy Islander Reporter
There are two unbeaten teams spread over two divisions in the youth soccer league at the Center of Anna Maria Island. Adrian Griffin Interiors is on top of the 8-10 division at 5-0, one game over Moss Builders at 4-1. Vida Sports Ministry is alone in third at 2-2-1 with AMI Outfitters on their heels at 2-3. Solid Rock Construction at 1-3-1 and 0-5 Beach Bums complete the 8-10 division standings. Back-to-back matches kicked off for the 8-10 division Oct. 28 at the center pitch with Moss Builders cruising to a 4-0 victory over Beach Bums. Finn Viehman scored three goals and Maclen Wright added a goal. Titus Moss came through with eight saves in the Moss victory.
Gia Ciasullo made four saves for Beach Bums in the loss.
Griffin Interiors held on for a 3-1 victory over Vida Sports Ministry behind two goals and an assist from Ruthie Ball. Jackson Griffin had one goal, Cooper Patel added an assist and Houston Winn made eights saves in the victory.
JJ Smith had a goal for Vida Sports, which also received seven saves from Everett Hood in the loss.
AMI Outfitters edged Solid Rock Construction 3-2 in the last 8-10 division match of the night. Phoenix Harwood notched two goals and Judah Treworgy added a goal for AMI Outfitters, which received two saves from Graeme Bekkerus in the victory.
Samuel Raulerson had a big game for Solid Rock, finishing with two goals and a game-high six saves. Jeremiah Raulerson added three saves in the loss.
The 11-13 division standings has Print Wizards on top with a 4-0 record, comfortably ahead of 2-2 La Creperie. AMI Coconuts and Solid Rock Construction complete the standings at 1-3.
Next up Oct. 28 was the 11-13 division with Solid
Adrian Griffin Interiors player Jackson Griffin takes on vida Sports Ministry defender Savannah Hanson oct. 28 in 8-10 division soccer action at the community center. Islander Photo: Kevin P. Cassidy
Rock Construction rolling past AM I Coconuts 4-1 behind two goals each from Owen Mahoney and Callin Westfall. Isaac Roadman added an assist and Elijah Roadman had three saves.
Grayson Hinckle scored AM I Coconuts lone goal on an assist from Aidan Guess, while Andre Harwood made eight saves in the loss.
Luca Viehman scored three goals to lead Print Wizards to a 3-2 victory over La Creperie in the last 11-13 game of the evening. Parker Svoboda chipped in with an assist while Joseph Caballero finished with five saves in the victory.
Tristan Hagey and Louis Bacon each scored to lead La Creperie, which also received six saves from Jordan Tobey in the loss.
Adult 3-v-3 basketball news
After five weeks of action in the adult 3-v-3 basketball league, Bradenton Home Inspections and Island Lumber are tied in the standings with matching 4-1
records. A trio of teams — Salty Printing, Slim’s Place and Solid Rock Construction — follow at 2-3. Mi-Box completes the standing at 1-4.
Action Oct. 30 saw Bradenton Home Inspections take two out of three from Solid Rock Construction 22-13, 19-18, 9-21. Tom Parks led Home Inspections with 16 points in the first game and 17 in the second game. Andrew Simonetti scored 6 points to lead Home Inspections in the last game.
Zach Long led Solid Rock Construction with a combined 17 points over the three games. Karri Stephens had 11 points and Connor Morse finished with 10 points in the loss.
Island Lumber defeated Mi-Box 22-14, 19-21, 22-9 in the second contest of the evening behind 36 points over the three games from Wes Jackson. Chase Richardson added 14 points and Miguel Rodriguez finished with 13 points in the victory.
Paul Hamilton led Mi-Box with 28 points and 14 points from Kiatrell Zachary in the loss.
The last match of the night saw Slim’s Place hold on for a 21-8, 15-22, 17-13 victory over Salty Printing. Ajani Poole led Slim’s with 21 points while Corey Jaques finished with 17 points in the victory.
Donte Filletti paced Salty Printing with 16 points and Andy Szabo finished with 15 points in the loss.
Members and guests at the Key Royale Club in Holmes Beach were out in force over the past week enjoying the beautiful weather, starting Oct. 27 with the men’s modified-Stableford system match.
Ed Harrel fired a plus-5 to earn a 3-point victory over Rod Hammonds, Eric Lawson and Roger Rottschafer who tied for second place at plus-2.
The women played a nine-hole individual low-net match Oct. 28. Sue Wheeler fired a 1-under-par 31 to earn clubhouse bragging rights for the day. Linda
PleASe, See sports, next PAGe
The Center of Anna Maria Island is registering kids for the nonprofit’s winter flag football league. Registration is for kids ages 4-17.
The deadline to register will be Friday, Dec. 12. A draft day will be Monday, Dec. 15, beginning at 5:30 p.m. for kids ages 8-10, followed by a 7 p.m. evaluation and draft for kids ages 14-17.
Evaluation and draft for kids ages 11-13 will be at 6 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 16.
There is no evaluation for the youngest division. The cost to play is $20 for members and $150 for nonmembers.
The season will begin Monday, Jan. 12, 2026, with games on Mondays and Tuesdays.
For more information, contact Raul Loera at sports@centerami.org or 941-778-1908, ext. 210.
— lisa neff
sports fRoM PAGe 16
Dorsey and Sharon Tarras tied for second at 1-overpar 33, while Laurie Hicks and Brenda Solleveld were both a stroke back in third.
Members closed out the week Oct. 30 with a shamble, playing to a par 64. The team of Ron Huibers, Eric Lawson, Blake Ress and Deb Richardson combined on an 8-under-par 56 to win the day’s outing, while the team of Jim Bailey, Tim Dunigan, Jerry Martinek and Mike Riddick were two strokes back in second.
Horseshoe action
Horseshoe action for the AMI Pitchers last week was short and sweet with no playoffs needed. Tom Farrington and Bob Hawks posted the lone 3-0 record during the Oct. 29 games at the Anna Maria City Hall pits, while Tim Sofran won the Nov. 1 games with the only 3-0 record.
The action starts at 9 a.m. Wednesdays and Saturdays at the Anna Maria City Hall pits. Warmups begin at 8:45 a.m., followed by random team selection.
There is no charge to play and everyone is welcome.
Photographer Angie Blunt of Perico Island said she was shooting waves in Bradenton Beach — “crazy big waves” — when surfers showed up. “very cool,” she commented with her oct. 30 post on facebook. Islander Courtesy Photos
Autumn swell
Jason Hall carves into a clean wave oct. 30 off the three piers area of Cortez Beach in Bradenton Beach. Higherthan-usual waves were driven by strong onshore winds pushing water toward shore. Islander Photo: Robert Anderson
Looking out at Fort St. Angelo
vic and Kathy Caserta of Holmes Beach recently traveled from their island home to Malta, an archipelago in the central Mediterranean between Sicily and the north African coast, for an adventure. Kathy Caserta wrote to the Islander: “Malta is an island south of Italy and the capital is valletta, where we started the adventure and continued to the island of Comino, as we snorkeled through caves in the Blue lagoon. this trip took us to castles, temples, archaeological museums, UneSCo sites and driving over 721 miles, visiting over 20 cities as the adventure continued in Italy. fine dining and over 40 bottles of local wines were sampled on this trip that lasted 19 days with our island neighbors, Steve and Debbie tapp.” Islander Courtesy Photo Visiting AMI or visiting afar? Hang on to an issue of The Islander and share travel photos at news@ islander.org.
By Capt. Danny Stasny Islander Reporter
With fall cooling the air and waters, Anna Maria Island anglers are eager to get out enjoy what this brings to our fishing opportunities.
Fishing the Gulf beaches is going strong for another week as migratory species are on the prowl, corralling bait schools over areas like reefs and hard bottom.
Spanish mackerel are dominating most areas along with kingfish, jack crevalle, ladyfish and blue runners. Other migratory species, cobia and sharks, are in on the action. So don’t go out there under-gunned. The light, sporty gear you use for mackerel is no match if a kingfish or cobia comes into range. So bring a heavy setup just in case.
Moving inshore, water temps are causing snook to be scattered as they migrate from the beaches to the flats. As they are in transit, finding concentrations of fish may be difficult. So a little persistence might be required.
Redfish are lurking along mangrove shorelines and oyster bars and even the beaches. Both live and chunk baits work well.
Finally, spotted seatrout are following a pattern like the snook — scattered throughout the flats. Drift fishing is a good bet if you’re on the hunt for larger trout.
On my Just Reel charters, I had the pleasure of having the Romano family from Long Island on the boat. Frank, 81 joined by wife Amelia, daughter Stacey and granddaughter Alex, 10, got to experience some great fishing. We got started by targeting some migratory species in the Gulf of Mexico. Spanish mackerel were the most prevalent, with a mix of blue runners and ladyfish to add variety.
The bite was good and Alex and Frank were catching fish on just about every bait.
We switched things up a little and gave Frank a larger rod baited with a big threadfin herring to see what else we could muster up and, to everyone’s surprise, within a couple of minutes, Frank’s rod was bent over double as the drag began screaming from the reel.
Several minutes into the battle, Frank got the fish to the surface. We all gasped as a large cobia came into sight before diving into the depths for another dragscreaming run. This action took place several more times before the fish gave in and was netted boatside. As we measured the fish, 33 inches to the fork, we noticed it had been tagged. I took several close-up photos of the tag and we released the fish.
We moved from the Gulf to the bay to do some snook fishing, which turned out to be good, as again, Frank and Alex hooked into numerous snook and some redfish, too.
frank Romano shows off a 33-inch tagged cobia he caught and released oct 24 while fishing with Capt. Danny Stasny of Just Reel fishing Charters. And, left, the cobia tag.
Good fishing, good company and a tagged cobia to spice up the story. We completed our day of fishing and I went to work tracking down that tag.
Tracking the tag to the tagger
I called Capt. Scott Moore, as I was sure he’d probably know what direction to send me, and he did.
In fact, he knew who tagged the fish and after a couple of texts and phone calls I was speaking to the tagger — Savannah Spedding, who works in the Historic Bridge Street Pier bait shop in Bradenton Beach when she’s not studying marine biology at University of South Florida with her hope to work with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission once she gets her degree.
Savannah is an avid angler and hunter and recently began tagging fish in the Gulf for a study by the Center
Winnie finishes marathon at No. 10
Winnie, Anna Maria Island’s entry in the 2025 tour de turtles presented by the Sea turtle Conservancy, traveled about 307 miles in a science-focused migration marathon that concluded oct. 31. the loggerhead, finishing in 10th place out of 12 sea turtles, was tagged with a satellite tracker in June at Coquina Beach in Bradenton Beach. the Sea turtle Conservancy’s tour de turtles officially began Aug. 1. Miso Speedy, a green sea turtle tagged in June at tortuguero national Park in Costa Rica, finished in first with 1,583 miles. for more, go to tourdeturtles. org. Islander Screenshot
for Fisheries Research and Development in cooperation with the University of Southern Mississippi.
The study is specific to the migratory habits of cobia and tripletail. Volunteer anglers throughout the south are helping with the goal to inform fishery resource assessments, management and conservation.
Savannah and other anglers tag and release the species and, if another angler catches one, they are asked to report it to aid in the research. Anglers who do report catches might be rewarded with merchandise.
So if you happen to catch a cobia or tripletail locally, don’t hesitate to reach out to Savannah at the pier.
Capt. David White says fishing the beach bite is “where it’s at.” He says mackerel are prevalent around areas with structure such as reefs, wrecks or hard bottom and chumming with live shiners is attracting the macks to the boat and helping to keep them there.
And chumming is luring other species to the boat — kingfish and bonita, as well as a few sharks.
Moving to the flats, White is putting his anglers on respectable numbers of snook while casting baits along mangrove shorelines. He said there are still a few fish remaining along the beaches and passes. In these area, black drum also are present.
Lastly, spotted seatrout are taking the bait for White’s clients over deep grass flats in the bays.
Capt. Johnny Mattay of Anna Maria Charters is finding kingfish and mackerel for clients while working in the Gulf of Mexico. Mangrove snapper also are being caught in the Gulf, especially on the reefs and wrecks.
Moving inshore, Mattay says redfish are a good bet as long as you’re working the right tides. Higher stages of the incoming tide are yielding good action on the reds and the same applies for snook, which the captain says seem to be turned on by the incoming tides. Send high-resolution photos and fishing reports to fish@islander.org.
By Lisa Neff
I’m not an aggressive or trusting driver.
So I don’t care for roundabouts. When that series of roundabouts was installed on Tamiami Trail in Sarasota, I figured it was someone’s way of trying to keep me and other Manatee motorists away from the city.
But now, after a few years of covering transportation planning meetings and a couple of courses on climate change, I’m circling back on my opinion of roundabouts, several of which are proposed for AMI.
Transportation planners tell me converting traditional intersections to roundabouts can reduce crashes, and environmentalists tell me that replacing traditional intersections with roundabouts can decrease vehicle emissions and fuel consumption.
Some points about safety:
• Traditional four-way intersections have 32 potential conflict points, while roundabouts have eight;
• Roundabouts eliminate high-speed, right-angle collisions, the most dangerous type of intersection crash;
• Studies show a 37% reduction in overall crashes and a 75% reduction in injury crashes at roundabouts compared to traditional intersections;
• Lower vehicle speeds — 15-25 mph — in roundabouts reduce collision severity and fatality risk;
• One-way circular flow can reduce confusion about right of way;
• Reduced decision-making complexity for drivers can decrease human error;
• Slower vehicle speeds give drivers more time to react to pedestrians;
• Pedestrians only need to focus on one direction of traffic at a time.
From the environmental perspective, there’s measurable, verifi able evidence that roundabouts are a greener option than traditional intersections, as well as have lower implementation costs than other climate
for years, transportation planners have discussed building roundabouts at key intersections on Anna Maria Island to improve traffic flow, ease congestion and slow motorists’ speed. In 2021, Islander editorial cartoonist Joe Bird created this AstheWorldterns promoting roundabouts.
mitigation strategies.
Some points:
• Roundabouts reduce idling time, which translates to lower CO2 emissions per vehicle trip;
• Studies show a 30%-40% reduction in fuel consumption at roundabouts versus signalized intersections;
• Smooth deceleration and acceleration patterns optimize engine efficiency;
• Reduced stop-and-go traffic decreases brake dust and tire particulate pollution;
The Manatee County Natural Resources Department will present Reptifest 2025 9 a.m.noon Saturday, Nov. 22, at the NEST at Robinson Preserve, 840 99th St. NW, Bradenton.
“Reptifest is a fun and educational way for families to connect with Florida’s native wildlife,” County Commissioner Tal Siddique, R-District 3, said. “We hope visitors leave with a deeper appreciation for reptiles and the important part they play in our environment.”
Attendees will encounter reptiles, as well as meet local wildlife experts and conservation partners from Jerry’s Wildlife, Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring, the Bishop Museum of Science and Nature and more.
For more information, go to mymanatee.org or call 941-748-4501.
— lisa neff
• Consistent vehicle speeds minimize emission spikes from hard acceleration;
• Traffic lights require continuous electrical power for operation, while roundabouts require no electrical infrastructure once constructed;
• Safer pedestrian crossings can encourage walking over driving for short trips.
So yeah, I think I’m doing a full 360 on roundabouts.
While they might feel like navigating a merry-goround during rush hour, the experts say they result in fewer crashes and cleaner air than traditional intersections.
Maybe those Sarasota planners weren’t trying to keep us out after all. They were just ahead of the curve. And if AMI gets its proposed roundabouts, I’ll be the convert cruising through at a sensible speed.
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission recently updated its Avian Mortality Reporting app to make it easier for people to help monitor the state’s wild bird populations.
Each year, FWC biologists investigate reports of bird deaths across the state to track diseases in birds to understand trends, identify emerging health threats and protect wildlife and public health.
The new app streamlines the reporting process,
allowing users to submit reports directly from a phone or computer using myfwc.com/avianhealth and provide detailed location information.
For more information, go to myfwc.com.
Tiki and Kitty are leading the way to the holidays at their favorite shops and boutiques. And this week there’s a special open house -- not to be
Miss us? WE MISS YOU AMI!
Stop by at our other locations:
Scavengers Marketplace SRQ
1175 N Washington Blvd
Scavengers Palmetto 2100 US Hwy 301
missed.
Check out Cat’s Meow, an 8,000 square-foot marketplace where vendors offer coastal, cottage, beach, antique, boho, midcentury modern and other home decor styles. They also offer vintage to fine jewelry and vintage vinyl records.
You might want to lace up your skates, as this large, former skating rink has plenty to offer bargain hunters and anyone seeking antiques and unique decor.
Next to Cat’s Meow, there’s Blue Flamingo, another “must stop.” They will be hosting a festive holiday “Sip & Shop” 4-7 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 6, with raffles, giveaways, libations and edible treats along with specials throughout the store, including the new collection from the Gathering Place and the Sea Hagg, formerly in Cortez. The fun continues 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Nov. 7 and Nov. 8.
Your place for fun, funky quirky!
Local Artisans. Upcycled, Vintage Furniture, Decor, Artwork
Dixie Belle Paint, Fun Gifts & More! Featuring “The Sea Hagg” collection. theblueflamingo.biz
We promise, you will find treasures aplenty at this fun shop. See you there!
Scavengers Marketplace has plenty of vendors to capture your wallet at the Palmetto store, 2100 U.S. 301. There’s always something new to entice you among the vendors’ eclectic collections.
FYI: Scavengers also carries Fusion Paints.
The Vintage Vine Market is a favorite for Tiki and Kitty, who love the fine vintage wares and items with a whimsical twist at this store in historic Old Manatee along the newest section of the Bradenton Riverwalk. The location in the 1910 building oozes charm. And they take select consignments by appointment.
And don’t forget, tell people you meet along the way, “The Islander sent me.”
The Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce will present Business of the Year Awards and install a 2026 board of directors during a dinner this month at the Key Royale Club in Holmes Beach.
The event will be 5-8 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 20, at the club, 700 Key Royale Drive.
Reservations must be made by Thursday, Nov. 13, by emailing chamber president Terri Kinder at terri@ chamber.org.
Tickets cost $55 per person or $500 for a table of eight.
Sponsorships also are available.
For more, call 941-778-1541.
— lisa neff
The Manatee Chamber of Commerce will hold its annual Fall Expo 4-7 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 13, at LECOM Park, 1611 Ninth St. W., Bradenton.
The outdoor event, open to the public, is one of the chamber’s most popular networking events, drawing 100 local exhibitors and hundreds of attendees for an evening of connection, discovery and celebration.
The evening includes light bites from chamber member restaurants, live entertainment, door prizes and a grand prize valued at $1,250 — the Mayor’s Suite at a 2026 Bradenton Marauders game for up to 25 guests, including food and beverages.
Tickets are $5 for chamber members who purchase them in advance and $10 for the public.
For more information, including exhibitor details, sponsorship opportunities and tickets, visit manateechamber.com/expo.
The chamber’s phone number is 941-748-4842.
— lisa neff
• Nov. 13, 11:30 a.m., Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce luncheon at the Porch, Anna Maria.
• Nov. 13, 4-7 p.m., Manatee Chamber Fall Expo at LECOM Park, Bradenton.
• Nov. 20, 5 p.m., AMI Chamber Business of the Year Awards and Installation Dinner at Key Royale Club, Holmes Beach. Send listings to calendar@islander.org — lisa neff
From June through September, Manatee County hosted an estimated 685,100 visitors.
Isiah Lewis, director of client relations for Downs & St. Germain Research, presented the statistic during his report Oct. 30 to the county tourist development council, which met in Bradenton.
Downs & St. Germain is in its first year collecting tourism data for Manatee. While new to Manatee, the firm has many other clients in the state.
Some other statistics Lewis provided for the JuneSeptember period:
• Of the 685,100 visitors, about 67% were visitors paying for accommodations;
• Direct tourism spending was $634,072,400;
• Room nights totaled 851,400;
• Hotel occupancy was about 66.5%;
• Vacation rental occupancy was about 58.6%;
• Overall occupancy was 62.4%;
• Average daily rate for hotels was $137.64;
• Average daily rate for vacation rentals was $403.75;
• Overall average daily rate was $274.45;
The occupancy and rates were based on 5,774 hotel rooms and 5,441 vacation rentals.
Lewis said the average length of stay for the period was 5.4 nights and the typical size of the travel party was three people.
Floridians made up the largest segment of visitors for the summer period, followed by visitors from the Southeast, Northeast, Midwest, West and international. The numbers included:
• Florida, 212,400;
• Southeast, 143,900;
• Northeast, 116,500;
• Midwest, 164,400;
• West, 27,400;
By lisa neff
Anna Maria
Median listing home price: $3 million, trending up 9.9% year-over-year.
Median sold home price: $1.7 million. Listings: 69 properties.
Bradenton Beach
Median listing home price: $987,000, trending down 22.1% year-over-year.
Median sold home price: $652,500. Listings: 70 properties.
Holmes Beach
Median listing home price: $1.4 million, down 14.7% year-over-year.
Median sold home price: $1.5 million
Listings: 148 properties.
Source: Realtor.com
Isiah lewis, director of client relations for Downs & St. Germain Research, presents a tourism update to the Manatee County tourist Development Council during an oct. 30 meeting in Bradenton. Islander Screenshot
• International, 20,500.
Lewis said top “drive markets” were Tampa, Orlando, New York City and the Washington, D.C., area.
About 52% of visitors drove to the county JuneSeptember and 26% flew into Sarasota Bradenton International Airport. About 13% fl ew into Tampa International Airport and 9% flew into Orlando.
The next TDC meeting will be at 9 a.m. Monday, Dec. 15. at the county administration building, 1112 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton.
— lisa neff
Paul Hoback Jr. is on the job as the new president and chief executive officer at the Sarasota Bradenton International Airport.
The Sarasota Manatee Airport Authority, in a news release Oct. 27, said Hoback brings 25 years “of exceptional aviation leadership to our community.” His last position was at Pittsburgh International Airport, where he was executive vice president and chief development officer.
“I am thrilled to finally be relocated to this incredible region,” Hoback said in the release. “I’m eager to roll up my sleeves and get to work continuing to elevate SRQ as the premier gateway to paradise for our millions of annual travelers. It is a distinct honor and privilege to serve this airport and community.”
Hoback succeeds Rick Piccolo, who announced his retirement earlier this year and remained in the post to ensure a smooth transition.
— lisa neff
FOUR VINTAGE BANTHRICO automobile banks. All, $50. First edition Old Spice shaving mug, circa 1947, $15. Bill, 724-986-0314.
ICE CREAM MAKER: Cuisinart, like new, $50, grill, non-stick tabletop, green pan, like new, $90. 941-920-2494.
ANTIQUE PARTNER DESK: All wood, $500. Inquire at 941-778-7978.
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.or g. (limited time offer).
GOLF CART RENTALS: Fun for residents and tourists! 941-213-5730. www.annamariacartrentals.com
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 941-704-9382.
CAPTAIN FOR HIRE and boat caretaker services: If you need help with your boat on or off the water, call Captain Dan. USCG, retired. 772486-8085.
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.
I S l A n D e R ARCHI ve. Uof f f lorida digital newspaper collection at ufdc.ufl.edu.
I HAve A dock with motorized lift for up to 20-foot motorboat for rent in Coral Shores, with access to the Intracoastal and the Gulf. fee negotiable. Please, call Jack, 941-5655531.
CHILDREN, YOUTH AND family leader, part-time. Roser Church. Create and lead programming for our growing congregation. Email family@roserchurch.com for more information.
NOW HIRING: THE White Egret and The Egret’s Nest. We are seeking creative individuals to fill both part-time and full-time positions at our boutiques! Flexible days but, some weekend availability required. Please inquire in person, drop off a resume or call 941-778-3782 for an interview appointment.
REPORTER WANTED: Full- to part-time. Print media, newspaper experience required. Apply via email with letter of interest to news@islander. org
TECH HELP, TUTORING, custom projects: Tutoring (K-6) starts at $12/hour. Tech and projects vary by complexity. Serving Anna Maria Island. dominic.cusimano@gmail.com.
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.
IS YOUR HOME or office in need of some cleaning? Well, I’m your girl! Local, reliable, professional! Please, give me a call or text, 941-773 -0461.
CLEANING: VACATION, CONSTRUCTION, residential, commercial and windows. Licensed and insured. 941-756-4570.
PRESSURE WASHING, PAVER sealing, driveway, roof, fence, pool area. Also, window cleaning. Licensed and insured. 941-565-3931.
BICYCLE REPAIRS: Just4Fun at 5358 Gulf Drive can do most any bicycle repair at a reasonable cost. Pick-up and delivery available. 941-8967884.
API’S DRYWALL REPAIR: I look forward to servicing your drywall repair needs. Call 941-5248067 to schedule an appointment.
PC o R te CH issues? n ot sure where to start? With years of experience, I’ll come to you with reliable solutions. Contact Gavin at 928-587-1309. www.gse.codes
SARASotA PAIntInG: InteRIoR/exterior/ cabinets: Call or text Don, 941-900-9398. free estimates. fully insured, twenty years’ experience.
RIDeeASY 247 YoUR professional, reliable and courteous car service to airports and events since 2015. You can reach us via text 941-447-7737 or email to mrfort5001@gmail. com We are available 24/7.
LOOK NO MORE! Residential, vacation rental and commercial cleaning. Give us a call, 941250-8548.
OUR SERVICES: CLEANING, home repairs, tile, concrete, remodeling, decks, steps, flooring, water drainage solutions, rental 24-hour services. Hurricane shutters and pre-storm service. New, low-cost generator and insulation (starts and runs on propane when power off). No permits needed. Islander, over 40 years here! Call 941-404-9163.
IS YoUR Pool deck, driveway, or garage floor looking worn out and dated? Bring them back to life with our top-tier resurfacing services! Services offered: Pool deck resurfacing, Slip-resistant, cool-to-the-touch finishes that enhance safety and aesthetics. Driveway resurfacing, durable surfaces that stand up to heavy traffic and harsh weather. Garage floor resurfacing, easy-to-clean, stain-resistant surfaces that look great and perform even better. Don’t wait! transform your spaces today with our trusted resurfacing services. Contact us now for a free consultation and estimate. Call U Plus Me llC at 727-6235050 or visit u-plus-me.com
G ot DIRt Y WI n D o WS? f ree estimates/ insured. five-star customer service rating. “We want to earn your business. Downeast Window Cleaning, 207-852-6163.
AIRPoRt SHUttle: QUAlItY transportation, 10 years by lewber. 352-339-3478.
looKInG foR SoMeone who needs me: 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.
ACHAU ffe R4U fo R t RA n SP o RtAt I on anywhere in f lorida. Properly insured and over 40 years in Bradenton. Dennis, 941812-5930.
ONECALL CLEANUP. Junk removal, water damage, and more. Fast, reliable service. Call, 941-544-1260.
H o M e WAt CH e R: WH en you can’t be at home, I’ll watch your home and send video of my inspection. I’m a State Certified Residential Appraiser with background check. 317-997-4056.
AMI AIRPoRt SHUttle Guy: We pick up from tampa, St. Petersburg and Sarasota airports. Up to seven passengers with luggage Reliable, licensed and friendly transportation to and from Anna Maria Island. AMIShuttle. com. 941-500-3388.
CLEANING SERVICES: Ten-plus years’ experience. Professional, prompt with a flexible schedule. Contact Jessica, 941-900-8051.
VACATION RENTAL management for your investment home(s) on AMI. From website startups to end cleaning, we market and maintain guest relations for your property. We optimize results at discounted rates. Contact Coastal Vibes at 281608-4229 or cbuckner124@gmail.com
NEED HELP MAKING your home, rental property or retail shop beautiful? 15-plus years of experience in residential and retail design. Free consultations. Call 330-806-5919.
BUSINESS-TO-BUSINESS JD’s Window Cleaning looking for storefront jobs in Holmes Beach. 941-920-3840.
BEACH SERVICE air conditioning, heat, refrigeration. Commercial and residential service, repair and/or replacement. Call Bill Eller, 941720-7411. Residential, call Nate, 941-524-2248. CAC184228.
Continued
CLEAN TECH MOBILE Detailing. At your location. Cars, boats, RVs. Call or text Billie for an appointment. 941-592-3482.
COLLINS LANDSCAPE LIGHTING: Outdoor lighting, landscaping, irrigation services and maintenance. 941-279-9947. MJC24373@gmail. com
lARRY’S BACK At WoRK starting nov. 3! 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.
VAN-GO PAINTING residential/commercial, interior/exterior, pressure cleaning, wallpaper. Island references. Bill, 941-795-5100. www.vangopainting.net.
GRI ff I n ’S H o M e IMPR ove M ent 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.
loo KI n G fo R 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.
D on A l D P e RKI n S PAI nt I n G ll C. Interior/exterior/pressure washing. Island references. dperkinspaint@hotmail.com. 941705-7096.
G o RI ll A DRYWA ll R e PAIR 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 AMI and surrounds. t ile, marble, murals. free estimates. Call John teti, 302983-5774.
TRUE TONE PAINTING: Painting, power washing, epoxy floors. 941-224-4020. CALL HYDRO CLEAN. Full-service pressure washing, sealing. Pavers, travertine and natural stone. Window washing too, up to three stories. Call Jacob, 941-920-2094.
ISLAND HANDYMAN: I live here, work here, value your referral. Refinish, paint. Just ask. JayPros. Licensed/insured. References. Call Jay, 941-962-2874.
ANNA MARIA GULF beachfront vacation rentals. One- two- and three-bedroom units, all beachfront. www.amiparadise.com. 941-778-3143.
More ads = more readers in the Islander.
AVAILABLE NOW AND season: 1BR/1BA, sevennight minimum. carlesvacationrentals.com Special rates are available. 941-807-1405.
PERICO ISLAND PATIO home: 3BR/2BA, privacy wall/gate, two-car garage, single floor, high ceilings, screened lanai. Call or text Alison, 859771-6423.
CENTRAL HOLMES BEACH, 3BR/2BA completely remodeled, walk to beach, school, trolley, shopping. Annual, $2,595/month. 941-7136743.
ANNUAL RENTALS AVAILABLE: Off Island: Perico Isle, 3BR/2BA unfurnished pool home, two-car garage, $3,100/month. Hidden Lake, 3BR/2BA furnished condo, $3,100/month. All require application, first, last and security. Wagner Realty, 941-778-2246.
SNOW BIRD SPECIAL: Discount for multiple months. 2BR/2BA, second floor condo in Holmes Beach. Pool, tennis/pickleball, in-unit laundry, WiFi, screened lanai, covered parking. Available 2025/26 season beginning December 2025. Beautiful, bayside seating area. Pool/ beach toys, bikes included. Call Jack, 312-8352323 for more information/photos.
H ol M e S B e ACH W e S t BAY Cove condo. Second floor, 2BR/2BA, large lanai with bay view and one block to Gulf beach. Pools, tennis, pickleball. December and January, $4,000/month, March, $4,200. 941778-8456. terryaposporos@gmail.com
AnnUAl RentAl AvAIlABle now! Beautiful 2BR/2BA villa in Pinebrook-Ironwood complex, boasts soaring ceilings updated kitchen and bathrooms and magnificent view of the eighth hole at Pinebrook Golf Course. this unit comes with covered parking, pool and lots of amenities. five miles from Anna Maria Island. $2,300/month. A must see! Call 317703-0449.
CONDOS FOR LEASE/sale: Downtown Bradenton, west end of the Manatee Riverwalk. Walka-bout community, library, museum, Pier 22, O’Bricks, Village of the Arts and more. 941-7254374, Geri Kenyon, Keyes Company.
WAteRfRont 2BR/2BA fIRSt-floor condo on AMI available December, and/or January, february, March. Discount for more than one month. Pools, tennis, walk to shop and to beach. Call Kathy, 973-219-0335.
CASUAL LIVING: 2BR/1BA house located near Paradise Bay off Cortez Road. Months of December and January still available. Weekly rates in February and April. Call 941-773-1552.
IS l A n D fAMI lY I n need of a rental. o ur budget is $4,000/month. f ull rent paid in advance. l ooking for three- to six-month lease, with three-plus bedrooms. We have two very sweet dogs and will pay a $500 pet deposit. Move in nov. 15, preferably unfurnished. Any possible rentals available that fit our family’s needs? We’d be so grateful! We love our island community. thank you. 706-202-6141.
MADBEACH SEASONAL: Fully-furnished, second-floor, 2BR/2BA condo in Madeira Beach for rent Nov., Dec., Jan. April, May. Screened lanai, two pools, park amenities (pickleball included), view of the Intracoastal and short walk to Gulf beaches, restaurants, retail. No smoking. Email connieandlisa@gmail.com
looKInG foR An eARlY
Dalton Wade Real estate. You need an aggressive and experienced Realtor in today’s market! Selling island homes, Sarasota and Bradenton areas. Multi-million-dollar
2BR/2BA ConDo In Mt. vernon for sale. fully furnished, on lake with view of Sarasota Bay. Clubhouse, pool, workout room, and hot tub. Minutes to beaches and shopping. Asking $370,000. Call Sharon, 941-730-5645.
AnotHeR PRICe DRoP! 1BR/1BA trailer, partially remodeled. Bradenton Beach. $89,900. Retirement, annual or seasonal income. 831212-2606.
