Helene buries Bradenton Beach in sand. 2
Hurricane stories from Holmes Beach. 3
Q&A 091124 3
Helen devastates Cortez. 4
AM businesses begin recovery. 5
Meetings 5
Opinions 6 STORM AID. 6
Looking back. 7
Get in the Game. 9
Save the date. 10-11
Community events. 11
Obituaries 12
Milestones 12
Islander photographer
Jacob Merrifield piloted a drone Sept. 27, after Hurricane Helene hit Anna Maria Island with strong winds and rain, but also severe storm surge. Pictured here, Bridge Street in Bradenton Beach, looking east from the roundabout at Gulf Drive. Islander
AME shifts classes to Bradenton. 13
Streetlife 18
RoadWatch 18
DOT passes on LBK bridge. 18
Soccer starts up. 20 Surf’s up. 21
NESTING NOTES 22
Waiting for Helene. 23
CLASSIFIEDS. 24-25
Isl Biz: 26
PropertyWatch 26
ABOVE LEFT: The Tide Tables Restaurant and Marina in Cortez on the Intracoastal Waterway by the Cortez Bridge gets slammed by a sailboat that broke its anchor during the wind and surf produced Sept. 26-27 by Hurricane Helene. Islander
Courtesy Photo. ABOVE RIGHT: Beach
Bistro, probably the most award-winning restaurant ever on Anna Maria Island, now in its 42nd year, saw it’s beachfront sliding-glass doors broken out during the late afternoon Sept. 26, just as Fox-13 news reporter Kimberly Kuizon (raised on AMI) was wrapping up a report on the hurricane on the beach. She said she looked up and saw a wave coming that looked like the huge waves she saw in Hawaii and yelled at her cameraman to “run.” She said the waves pushed water and sand into the restaurant. And it’s the same or near that for other beachfront establishments on AMI. Islander Photo: Kimberly Kuizon
The Bradenton Beach Police Department blocks traffic from entering the city at the Cortez Bridge. Islander Photo: Jacob Mer-
The Florida Highway Patrol closed the Sunshine Skyway Bridge at about 1:45 p.m. Sept. 26 as weather conditions deteriorated and wind gusts associated with Hurricane Helene reached 60 miles per hour. Islander Photo: Courtesy Florida Department of Transportation
By Robert anderson Islander Reporter
Hurricane Helene intensified to a category 4 storm sept. 26 on the doorstep of anna maria island’s coastline before making landfall near perry, southeast of the capital.
d espite being spared a direct hit, a nna m aria i sland experienced strong winds, storm surge and severe localized flooding, with Bradenton Beach seeing the most significant damage.
the island’s southernmost city on sept. 29 was surveyed and it was determined Bradenton Beach was 90%-95% destroyed. the city was deemed a “catastrophic area.”
Earlier, on sept. 27, the manatee county Board of county commissioners convened at the emergency operations center in Bradenton to report on the storm’s impact.
c ommission c hair m ike r ahn emphasized the need for patience during assessment of the damage.
“it has been a very long day for manatee county,” rahn said. “it is a very serious situation on the island. t he beaches have been dramatically affected by unprecedented storm surge, from 5-7 feet.”
He said historically the surge from Helene was the worst since 1980.
rahn said more than 400 911calls were made overnight, including 300 coming from the island, which had been under an evacuation order issued sept. 24 and effective beginning at 10 a.m. sept. 25.
rahn said county crews sept. 27 were on the island doing damage assessment.
“this is not going to be a quick recovery for the islands. i t’s going to be weeks and maybe months before we fully recover,” he said.
matt myers, manatee county’s chief of emergency management, said people should be careful when the opportunity to return to their homes comes — which arrived about 10 a.m. sept. 28 for those who evacuated Holmes Beach and anna maria — noting that most
injuries and hazards happen after the storm.
Jodie Fisk, the county’s director of public safety, added that crews were on the ground on ami, including in Bradenton Beach, where storm surge and flooding caused roadways to become impassable.
“right now, our community and veteran’s services department has human needs assessment teams out completing door to door assessments,” Fisk said. a human needs assessment fills information gaps between current and desired conditions for county residents.
“if you have returned home after evacuating and you find that you have water in the home or significant damages, please call 311 and let them know that you do have temporary housing needs,” she said.
rahn described the level of damage in island communities, referring to a helicopter ride taken with the sheriff’s office earlier in the day.
“director Fiske and i were airborne this morning and it’s all bad,” rahn said. “there are still flooded streets. s and is blocking streets. s and is in build -
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crews work sept. 27 in Bradenton Beach to move sand on the road washed up with Hurricane Helene’s surge. Islander
ings and homes,” he said. “so it’s going to be a long recovery for citizens to be able to get back out to their homes.”
rahn also spoke to the state of damage to the roadways in Bradenton Beach saying, “roads are gone and have been significantly damaged. Gulf drive in places has been washed out.”
He said crews from the Florida d epartment of transportation were assessing the roads. after the meeting, rahn spoke with the islander about access to the island via bridges on m anatee avenue, cortez road and Gulf drive.
“the bridges are safe to drive on.” rahn said. “all are drivable and secure. We have heard from our dOt friends. so far as we know, we have no issues with the bridges as soon as they open up the islands and start letting residents go back over.”
Bradenton Beach police chief John cosby, who also serves as the city’s emergency manager, spoke to the islander on sept. 27 about the storm’s impact.
By Ryan Paice Islander Reporter
stories of rescues, resilience and community support have surfaced from the floodwaters of Hurricane Helene.
in the wake of the devastating storm, Holmes Beach police chief William tokajer and residents Briana Gagnier and patricia Buffat recounted their experiences to the islander.
tokajer, who often says he is “living the dream,” told the islander sept. 28 that the dream became a nightmare only days before, as Helene made its passage sept. 26 through the Gulf of mexico.
tokajer said that nightmare began when unexpectedly rapid flooding trapped him, lt. Brian Hall and about eight other law enforcement officers at the city police department, 5801 marina drive.
He said flooding began when a rainband from Helene hit around 6 a.m. and brought a “daunting” storm surge that only continued to rise until around midnight — at which point it was measured to be more than four feet above marina drive.
“Within minutes, the roads were impassable,” tokajer said. “it was just unbelievable how quick the water came in and how fast it was rushing. it looked like a river going down Flotilla and marina drive.”
“Even if we wanted to leave, there was nowhere we could go,” he added.
tokajer expected the hurricane to pass by 8 p.m. sept. 26, at which point he and Hall planned to leave the rest to the night shift, but flooding did not subside until the next day.
due to the fl ooding, the HBpd garage took on about 22 inches of water despite the use of door dams and about seven department vehicles may have been damaged by saltwater.
the storm resulted in a structure fire at a property in the 200 block of 74th street, according to tokajer.
tokajer said the fire was still burning when police checked the property — which was a total loss — in the morning, at which point dirt was dumped on the ashes to extinguish it.
the cause was said to be a lithium battery in a golf cart.
Holmes Beach police also tackled a handful of rescues including one involving a family of three adults, two children and a dog from a flooded home. that family spent the night sheltered at the WmFr station 3, 6001 marina drive.
“the only reason we went out and put ourselves in harm’s way for that was because the kids,” tokajer said. “We were getting calls all night from people saying ‘Hey, i’ve got sparking in my house and i need help.’ We were like, ‘turn your power off and get on
Last week’s question
He sent four officers out on a manatee search and rescue high-water vehicle to ensure the house was empty, but nothing more could be done since West manatee Fire rescue vehicles could not reach it.
By lisa neff
My preferred mode of staying in touch with friends and family is …
47%. Text messages.
25%. phone calls.
4%. Email.
2%. social media.
22%. Face to face.
This week’s question
Have you ever evacuated ahead of a storm?
a. No.
B. Once.
c. a few times.
d. many times.
To answer the poll, go online to islander.org. To suggest a question, email lisa@islander.org.
By Robert anderson Islander Reporter
the village of cortez suffered extensive flooding as Hurricane Helene swept past the Gulf coast sept. 26, bringing a storm surge of 5-7 feet and forcing some residents to swim to safety.
the storm left many in the village without power, electricity or sanitation.
Karen Bell, owner of a.p. Bell seafood & co. and the starfish co. restaurant in cortez, told the islander sept. 27, “all the houses are flooded. the docks are a mess, starfish especially. it will probably take a week or two to replace them.”
she said the a.p. Bell building suffered no damage. However, the village’s last remaining net camp structure, the curt Johns camp, was destroyed.
“the net camp is gone,” Bell said. “so now we have zero.”
capt. Joey sweet, who operates a tour boat business out of cortez, reported several cases of flooding
around the seafood shack restaurant and marina, 4110 127th st. W., including the landmark annie’s Bait and tackle, 4334 127th st. W.
capt. Katie tupin, who also runs a tour boat business and resides in cortez, faced an ordeal as a late high tide coupled with the surge sent water rushing into her home.
as she and her family swam and waded in the dark from their flooded home, they were run into by a shark that was swimming in floodwaters in the roadway. the cortez Historic Village cultural center, 11655 cortez road W., also suffered Helene’s wrath. cindy rodgers, the center’s director, said a wooden shed addition was destroyed.
Helene also cut off access to longboat Key and, as of sept. 28, access to longboat which was under an evacuation order for the storm, was prohibited.
longboat Key mayor Ken schneier, in a sept. 27
interview with the islander, said the town remained inaccessible after sand blocked major roads in Bradenton Beach and flooding to the south in st armands circle, made access to the John ringling Bridge and sarasota impossible.
“We have to have our assessment done for recovery and enough work done to enable people to safely return,” schneier said. “that’s currently in the works.”
schneier said longboat suffered roadway damage to side streets but Gulf of mexico drive, aside from sand deposits, did not suffer damage.
“i was told that in one of the neighborhoods, a town truck is stuck in a hole of a road that had been undermined,” he said.
“We have some places on the north end that will drain slowly but it’s going, and we have a lot of sand on the road that is being disposed of by public works,” schneier said.
With widespread power outages and cleanup efforts underway, longboat and cortez were on a long road to recovery from Hurricane Helene’s destruction. meanwhile, county and town officials encouraged residents and business owners to remain patient.
some years ago, the islander was invited to take part in a pilot project with the university of Florida George a. smathers libraries. We donated the collection of newspapers beginning with the first edition in 1992. it took some time but it’s all maintained on the library site. look for the islander in the uofF Florida digital newspaper collection at ufdc.ufl.edu.
The beach market you love is back!
10 AM - 4 PM
Open 10-2 Wed., Fri., Sun., Oct. 2, 4 & 6
May 29 th & Fri, May 31st
Coquina Beach Market’s artists and crafters are ready for another season on the beach!
June 2nd (10 AM - 2 PM)
Enjoy live music while strolling the beach among food, refreshment and a variety of arts and crafts.... jerwely, apparel, pet items, stuffed turtles, skin care, totes & bags, wind chimes, fresh lemonade and more!
will find at our Market: jewelry, fresh lemon& creative artwork, fresh baked goods, pet metal artwork, stuffed turtles, sunglasses, caps, skin care products, water totes & bags, guacamole, windchimes, bracelets, eco friendly bug lotions, jerky, fresh coconut drink, licorice, toys and MORE.
Check FB for vendor roster, weather notices, closures.
The Coquina Beach outdoor market is in Bradenton Beach at the south tip of Anna Maria Island, overlooking Longboat Pass. Enter the beach parking lot at the south end of the island, before the Longboat Pass Bridge. Trolley riders will exit at the Coquina Cafe and walk the beach to the market. coquinabeachmarket.org Info: text 941-840-0789 facebook.com/CoquinaBeachMarket
By Ryan Paice Islander Reporter
anna maria’s business community bunkered up, waited out and even waded through the waters of Hurricane Helene.
the islander spoke with businessowners darcie duncan and Brian seymour about staying on the island through the storm, damage to local businesses and post-storm recovery efforts.
duncan, owner of anna maria-based duncan real Estate, told the islander sept. 28 that she stayed at her home on chilson avenue through the storm.
she said that she had a bad feeling about the hurricane and prepared her home and business offices in anna maria and Holmes Beach as best she could ahead of time.
Nevertheless, duncan said the storm brought a “mind-blowing” surge that came “fast” and “fierce” around 9:30 p.m.
“We walked to the end of our driveway … and the water was racing down the street from the Gulf, and it was almost up to our waist,” she said. “it just started flushing down the street.”
Not long after, duncan’s ground-level home began flooding — ultimately taking on about a foot and a half of water — but she was able to gather some items and make it up to a carriage house above her garage. there, she waited out the remainder of the storm.
duncan, an island native, said she’s never seen a worse storm hit the island. “i’ve lived here my whole
By lisa neff
Oct. 10, 2 p.m., commission.
10005 Gulf Drive, 941-708-6130, cityofannamaria.com.
Oct. 2, 1 p.m., planning and zoning. CANCELED
Oct. 3, 6 p.m., commission.
107 Gulf Drive N., 941-778-1005, cityofbradentonbeach.com.
Oct. 2, 10 a.m., parks and beautification.
Oct. 2, 5 p.m., planning.
Oct. 8, 2 p.m., commission.
Oct. 9, 9 a.m., clean water.
5801 Marina Drive, 941-708-5800, holmesbeachfl.org.
Oct. 3, 9 a.m., commission, land use.
Oct. 8, 9 a.m., commission.
1112 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton, 941-748-4501, mymanatee. org.
Oct. 14, Columbus Day, some government offices will be closed.
Send meeting notices to calendar@islander.org.
Plan now for the next holiday!
Is your business ready to make the most of a new season?
Improve your odds of success with Islander newspaper readers looking to shop and dine, seeking indoor and outdoor fun, and a place to stay for their next visit. Call or text 941-778-7978.
life, my boyfriend is fifth generation and you’re talking to the old-timers — no one’s ever seen anything like this. Ever.”
the next day, she inspected her offices, which had both flooded during the storm.
duncan’s main offi ce on pine avenue needs to be “completely gutted and mitigated” due to water damage.
a secondary office on marina drive in Holmes Beach took on 2-3 feet of water and will require restoration.
While it could take some time to get back to normal, duncan promised her staff their jobs would remain.
“i will get them through this. We will all work together. i’m going to keep my people employed and do everything i can because i know that we’ll come back and things will get cooking again,” she said. “But we’re in for a long haul.”
duncan said she proactively lined up contractors and electricians for repairs, so she was hopeful to get things up and running as soon as possible.
However, she said recovery for other local businesses — many of which fared as bad or worse than her offices — may take longer.
seymour, owner of the anna maria General store, 503 pine ave., and the Grill and Bait shop on the t-end of the anna maria city pier, told the islander sept. 29 that his businesses were elevated, fortunate and might be able to reopen soon.
He lives in a second-floor condo behind the general store, where he chose to stay the night of the storm with his two dogs.
seymour said that when the area began to flood, he grew concerned about his vehicle taking on water, so he drove it over to higher ground near roser memorial community church, 512 pine ave.
around 10 p.m., seymour waded through chesthigh water on pine to get back to check on his vehicle and charge his cellphone. He stayed in the vehicle until the storm surge began to recede around 2:30 a.m.
“i’m not the tallest guy, but it had to be three-anda-half or four feet of water,” he said.
in the morning, seymour found the general store and pier grill and bait shop had only taken on about two inches of water during the storm.
However, a new generator he had purchased for the general store was found “completely underwater,” leaving the business with only one smaller generator — just enough to power a cooler and one freezer.
seymour added that the general store’s compressor rack, which controls the business’s freezers and refrigeration, had been submerged in saltwater during the storm and remained a roughly $75,000 question mark.
in the meantime, he was forced to dispose of $20,000-$25,000 of merchandise at the general store and about $10,000 of merchandise at the pier grill and bait shop.
in an effort to use what would be lost, the business gave away 200-250 bags of ice to islanders and had staff take home food that had not yet expired.
seymour noted that many other businesses on pine avenue took on 3-4 feet of water during the storm and were in a far worse position.
“Everyone’s devastated. Nobody expected this kind of damage,” he said. “i think it took a lot of people by surprise.”
seymour said he has checked on numerous properties for others following the storm and estimated more than 90% of the city’s ground-level properties had taken on water.
He said it could take a while for local businesses
We’ll be back
i’m counting on you.
Yes, you.
readers. islanders. Business people. Newcomers. Visitors and snowbirds. island old-timers. the folks who hold anna maria island close to their hearts. i’m counting on you to stick with me, to be strong and come back from this disaster better than ever. Be innovative. take bold steps. and be resilient. We have to be able to endure this setback and any future storms that come our way by putting our little piece of paradise back in order.
We can support one another and share ideas and sources and be stronger in the end.
Yes. We can. stronger.
Better. islanders.
it’s built into our spirit to survive and persevere. sadly, the anna maria island chamber of commerce board of directors has pulled Bayfest on pine avenue in anna maria.
We felt pretty strongly that if the street festival consisted only of a beer truck and a band to play live music, it would give us a chance to come together after the disaster of Helene, share stories and maybe share our troubles — and a laugh.
From the north tip to the south end at coquina Beach, we’ve all got stories and steam to let off. and everyone deserves to know how much we care about our businesses and our residents and all the people that make anna maria island a great community.
maybe we can work it out in the weeks ahead. in the meantime, we’ll keep you posted on how things are going. Who’s reopening and when. Who’s ready to serve you now. Who needs help — employees, resources, equipment and ideas. and remember, we need you as much as you need to keep things ticking on anna maria. let us know when you get the doors open! there are some lucky stores and shops with little to no damage out there. We need to celebrate them and support them.
in fact, the good folks at los chiludos Fresh mexican Grill were busy serving neighbors and stormweary workers — for free — sept. 29 and sept. 30 in the parking lot of their shop on East Bay drive at the centre of anna maria island shopping plaza where most, if not all, merchants were flood-free. that’s the spirit. please, tell them “thank you.” We’re in this together.
— Bonner Joy, news@islander.org
manatee county people impacted by Hurricane Helene are advised to complete an “unmet needs survey,” which can be found at https://extreme-weather-dashboard-manateegis.hub.arcgis.com.
the site, manatee county’s “severe Weather information center,” also contains information about post-storm safety tops, road closures, power outages, recovery work, donation sites, aid distribution sites and more.
Website: islander.org
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News alerts: register at islander.org
E-edition: subscribe at islander.org
Anna Maria: mayor dan murphy, 941-7086130, ammayor@cityofannamaria.com.
OCT. 2, 2024 • Vol. 32, No. 50
▼ Publisher, Co-editor
Bonner Joy, news@islander.org
▼ Editorial editor lisa neff, lisa@islander.org
Robert anderson, robert@islander.org
Joe Bird, editorial cartoonist
Kevin cassidy, kevin@islander.org
Masha Dolgoff, masha@islander.org
Jack elka, jack@jackelka.com
Robyn Murrell, robyn@islander.org
Ryan Paice, ryan@islander.org
▼ Contributors
Karen Riley-love
Jacob Merrifield
capt. Danny stasny, fish@islander.org
▼ Advertising Sales
Debbie tucker, debbie@islander.org
▼ Webmaster Wayne ansell
▼ Office Manager, lisa Williams
info@, accounting@, classifieds@, subscriptions@islander.org
▼ Distribution
urbane Bouchet
Ross Roberts
Judy loden Wasco
For FEma assistance, download the FEma app for smartphones to begin, go to disasterassistance.gov or call 800-621-3362.
All others: news@islander.org
For flood recovery information, go to mymanatee. org/floodimpact.
For business recovery information, go to sba.gov/ disaster.
For cleanup help, go to crisiscleanup.org. as of sept. 29, people displaced by the storm could find temporary housing assistance at a red cross shelter at First Baptist of Bradenton, 1306 manatee ave. W., Bradenton.
For those who need drinking water, distribution is at G.t. Bray park, 5502 33rd ave. drive W., Bradenton.
On ami, the center of anna maria island also was sharing donated supplies.
For unmet storm-related needs, contact the Hope Florida initiative, activate Hope, at 850-300-HOpE. recovery centers were expected to be established on or near the island, but the information was not announced as of islander press time sept. 30.
— lisa neff
Bradenton Beach : mayor John chappie, 941-778-1005, mayor@cityofbradentonbeach. com.
Holmes Beach: mayor Judy titsworth, 941708-5800, hbmayor@holmesbeachfl.org.
Manatee County: commissioner Kevin Van Ostenbridge, 941-745-3705, kevin.vanostenbridge@mymanatee.org.
Florida Senate : Jim Boyd, 941-742-6445, boyd.jim.web@flsenate.gov.
Florida House : William cloud
“Will” robinson Jr., 941-708-4968, will.robinson@myfloridahouse.gov.
Florida Governor: ron desantis, 850-7179337, flgov.com.
U.S. House: Vern Buchanan, 941- 951-6643, rep.vern.buchanan@mail.house.gov.
U.S. Senate: marco rubio, 305-596-4224; rick scott, 786-501-7141.
President: Joe Biden, 202-456-1111, whitehouse.gov/contact.
the islander welcomes your opinion letters please, submit your opinion with name, address and contact phone number to news@islander.org. Only your name and city are published. letters may be edited for space and style.
Bayside stationhouse
a crowd gathers in 1992 for the dedication ceremony of the u.s. coast guard station in cortez on the waterfront in the fishing village. Islander
Images: courtesy
Manatee county Public library system
Village school the 1912 cortez schoolhouse in an undated photo. the building was used as a school until 1961. It also was used as a residence and a center for the cortez art league, as well as a set in the 1998 film “great expectations.” today the building houses the florida Maritime Museum.
some years ago, the islander was invited to take part in a pilot project with the university of Florida George a. smathers libraries. We donated the collection of newspapers beginning with the first issue in 1992 and they’re all there for you to explore. look for the islander in the uofF Florida digital newspaper collection at ufdc.ufl.edu.
We mail The Islander weekly for a nominal $54 per year. We also offer online e-edition subscriptions — a page-by-page view of the weekly news for only $36 per year, but you must sign up online. it’s the best way to stay in touch with what’s happening on anna maria island.
We bring you all the news about three city governments, community happenings, people features and special events … even real estate transactions … everything you need if your “heart is on anna maria island.” if you don’t live here year-round, use this form to subscribe by snail mail for yourself or someone else. Sorry, we do not suspend mail subscriptions — you get The Islander free while you’re here!
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From the Sept. 29, 1994, issue
• the island cities were working on requests for proposals to contract for yard waste pickup to comply with a state mandate that such waste be separated from garbage.
• a Bradenton Beach resident, protesting a proposed tax increase in the city, collapsed after speaking at a hearing, suffering a fatal heart attack.
• Holmes Beach councilwoman carol Whitmore proposed requiring a referendum for any changes in density at properties, a move to apply rules similar to those on longboat Key.
From the Sept. 29, 2004, issue
• the manatee county school Board approved an $8.55 million budget for construction at anna maria Elementary school in Holmes Beach. a school construction team estimated the building cost at $10 million.
• anna maria commissioners voted to approve a lease for the Waterfront restaurant to use eight spaces of anna maria city pier parking on Bay Boulevard.
From the Oct. 1, 2014, issue
• anna maria commissioners unanimously voted to pass a moratorium on permits to build single-family homes with four or more rooms that could be used for sleeping areas.
• manatee county commissioners OK’d sharing “surplus” revenue from concessions at coquina and manatee public Beaches with island municipalities.
—
lisa neff
He said Gulf drive was blocked and a majority of the roadway was damaged.
“it’s under about 3-4 foot of sand,” cosby said. “all the sand dunes and the beaches are gone.”
He said residential, commercial and government property was damaged.
“the police department flooded. public works flooded. We lost a bunch of equipment, lost two police cars. lost a public works vehicle,” cosby said.
“i’ve got homes that lost their foundations. i have got homes are in the middle of the road, near 12th street south,” cosby said, referring to a residence that came loose from its foundations and floated into the middle of the roadway.
He advised residents to be patient due to damage to infrastructure and loss of utilities.
cosby also said the city’s finger docks and floating docks at the Historic Bridge street pier were damaged. However, the main body of the pier made it through the storm unscathed.
adding to the city’s woes was the destruction of the city’s undergrounding project. the city began undergrounding utilities in 2018 but cosby said sept. 27, “all of the underground power lines are all at the surface. that whole system is shot.”
He said it could be years before the city returned to proper working conditions.
Holmes Beach Police chief Bill tokajer and Mayor Judy titsworth greet carloads of Islanders as they pass through the checkpoint on Manatee avenue before crossing the anna Maria Island Bridge sept. 28 to check on their properties and businesses. titsworth handed out safety and debris collection information. Islander
Tiki and Kitty are leading the way to their favorite shops and boutiques for some fun.
Blessed and Distressed is a tastefully designed store — so inviting you’ll want to pull up a chair — with collectibles and work by local artists at palma sola square, around the corner from Winn-dixie. it offers vintage, upcycled, shabby chic and artsy vendors. You won’t be disappointed.
t&K love Cat’s Meow, an 8,000 square-foot marketplace! their vendors offer coastal, cottage, beach, antique, boho, midcentury modern and other home decor styles. they also offer vintage to fine jewelry and vintage albums.
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. You don’t want to miss this collection.
We’ll definitely make a stop next door at Blue Flamingo , home to hip and trendy upcycled and
repurposed goods, furniture and decor, garden features, candles, jewelry and work by local artisans. they also offer dixie Belle paints.
We promise, you will find treasures aplenty.
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 newest section of the
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.”
preparations are underway for the Goblin Gathering — manatee county’s premier Halloween experience.
Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341. TENTATIVE DUE TO HELENE
Wednesday, Oct. 9
compiled by lisa neff, calendar@islander.org
AMI
Saturday, Oct. 5
11 a.m.-2 p.m. — Artists’ Guild Gallery Saturday Tea & Art, 5414 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6694. TENTATIVE DUE TO HELENE
Wednesday, Oct. 9
6:30 p.m. — Island Time Book Club meeting, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341. TENTATIVE DUE TO HELENE
Friday, Oct. 4
5:30 p.m. — Music in the Park Mama Fuma concert, Bradenton Riverwalk Pavilion at Rossi Park, 452 Third Ave. W., Bradenton. Information: 941-301-8445.
ONGOING ON AMI
• Through October, Artists’ Guild Gallery window show, 5414 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6694.
• Second Mondays, 2 p.m., Center of Anna Maria Island Adult Book Club, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria. Information: 941-7781908.
ONGOING OFF AMI
• First Fridays, 6-9:30 p.m., Village of the Arts First Fridays Artwalk, 12th Street West and 12th Avenue West, Bradenton. Information: villageofthearts.com.
• Second and fourth Saturdays, 2 p.m., Music on the Porch jam session, presented by the Florida Maritime Museum and Cortez Cultural Center, 4415 119th St. W., Cortez. Information: floridamaritimemuseum.org.
• Through October, Island Gallery and Studios mixed-media drawings by Larry Paul, 456 Old Main St., Bradenton. Information: 941-778-6648.
• Through Oct. 20, “Reimagining Nature: Dali’s Floral Fantasies,” the Dali Museum, 1 Dali Boulevard St., St. Petersburg. Fee applies. Information: 727-823-3767, thedali.org.
• Through Jan. 5, “Life in One Cubic Foot,” the Bishop, the Bishop Museum, 201 10th St. W., Bradenton. Fee applies. Information: 941-746-4131.
• Through Feb. 9, 2025, “Enduring Light: Photographs by Roy DeCarava and Danny Lyon,” the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, 5401 Bay Shore Road, Sarasota. Fee applies except Mondays. Information: 941-359-5700.
• Through Feb. 25, 2025, “I want you to know my story” photography by Jess T. Dugan, the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, 5401 Bay Shore Road, Sarasota. Fee applies except Mondays. Information: 941-359-5700.
the 22nd annual event will be 5-8 p.m. Friday, Oct. 11, in the wooded area of G.t. Bray park, 5502 33rd ave. drive W., Bradenton.
local businesses and community partners will pass out treats to participants.
this year’s gathering also will feature bounce houses, face painting, costume contests, a petting zoo and magic demonstrations. a costume contest will begin at 7 p.m., with registration opening at 5 p.m.
For more information, call 941-748- 4501.
Oct. 11, Realize Bradenton’s Music in the Park concert, Bradenton.
Oct. 11, City Center open houses, Holmes Beach.
Oct. 18, Realize Bradenton’s Music in the Park concert, Bradenton.
Oct. 19, Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce’s Bayfest, Anna Maria.
Oct. 25, Realize Bradenton’s Music in the Park concert, Bradenton.
• Third Thursdays, 4 p.m., Sundown Get Down with the Bridge Street Merchants, Bridge Street, Bradenton Beach. Information: 941778-8565.
• Most Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Coquina Beach Market, Coquina Beach, Bradenton Beach. Information: coquinabeachmarket.org.
Saturday, Oct. 5
8 a.m.-noon — Manatee County Volunteer Plant Sale, Barbara Davis Educational Gardens, 1303 17th St. W., Palmetto. 941-7224524.
ONGOING OFF AMI
• Saturdays, Oct. 5-May 31, Bradenton Market, Old Main Street, Bradenton. Information: 941-301-8445.
Friday, Oct. 4
10 a.m. — 40 Carrots, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341. TENTATIVE DUE TO HELENE
Tuesday, Oct. 8
10 a.m. — Family storytime, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive,
5 p.m. — Introduction to Sewing for Teens, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341. TENTATIVE DUE TO HELENE
• First Wednesdays, SOAR in 4 family night, the Bishop Museum, 201 10th St. W., Bradenton. Fee applies. Information: 941-746-4131.
• Third Fridays, Teen Nights, the Bishop Museum, 201 10th St. W., Bradenton. Fee applies. Information: 941-746-4131.
• Second Saturdays, Quest for Kids, the Bishop Museum, 201 10th St. W., Bradenton. Fee applies. Information: 941-746-4131.
SAVE THE DATES
Oct. 11, Manatee County Goblin Gathering, Bradenton. CLUBS & COMMUNITY ON AMI
Thursday, Oct. 3
1 p.m. — Sunshine Stitchers, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341. TENTATIVE DUE TO HELENE ONGOING ON AMI
• Saturdays, 8:30 a.m., Kiwanis Club of Anna Maria Island meetings, Bradenton Beach City Hall, 107 Gulf Drive N. Information: 941-778-1383.
SAVE THE DATES
Nov. 2, Bishop Museum’s Celestial Affair gala, Bradenton. LESSONS & LEARNING ON AMI
Wednesday, Oct. 2
10 a.m. — Beginning line dancing, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341. TENTATIVE DUE TO HELENE 11 a.m. — Advanced line dancing, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941778-6341. TENTATIVE DUE TO HELENE
SPORTS & FITNESS
ONGOING ON AMI
• Most Fridays, 11:30 a.m., mahjong club experienced players, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941778-6341.
• Mondays, 10 a.m., morning yoga, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341.
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Roy Decarava’s “couple Dancing, new York” from the portfolio “twelve Photogravures 1956.” the image is featured in “enduring light: Photographs by Roy Decarava and Danny lyon from the sandor family collection,” on view through feb. 9, 2025, at the John and Mable Ringling Museum of art, 5401 Bay shore Road, sarasota. the exhibition showcases works from two significant portfolios: “twelve Photogravures” by Decarava and “Memories of the southern civil Rights Movement” by lyon. for more information, call the Ringling at 941- 359-5700.
Islander Photo: Richard & ellen sandor family collection/estate of Roy Decarava
ONGOING OFF AMI
• Saturdays, 9 a.m., Mornings at the NEST, Robinson Preserve, 10299 Ninth Ave. NW, Bradenton. Information: 941-742-5923, mymanatee.org.
SAVE THE DATES
Oct. 12, Manatee County Audubon outing, Anna Maria. Oct. 19, Manatee County Audubon outing, Bradenton Beach. Nov. 2, Cortez Cultural Center planting day, Cortez.
KEEP THE DATES
Through Oct. 31, sea turtle nesting season. Lights out! Through Nov. 30, Atlantic hurricane season. Be prepared! Monday, Oct. 14, Columbus Day.
Monday, Oct. 14, Indigenous Peoples Day. Wednesday, Oct. 16, National Bosses Day. Thursday, Oct. 24, United Nations Day. Thursday, Oct. 31, Halloween.
in the sept. 18 issue, the article “cortez nonprofit hears updates for grant construction, considers dock criteria” incorrectly referred to the FisH community dock at the end of 123rd street West, but should have named the FisH preserve dock at the end of 119th street West, adjacent to the FisH preserve in cortez.
Odd Duck Designs Shop
Wearable T-shirt art by local artist Connie Wolgast. Scan here shop!
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Kids in the center of anna Maria Island’s Beyond the classroom program sept. 10 play silent speedball, sharpening their focus and reflexes as they try to keep the ball moving without making a sound. the after-school program at the center, 407 Magnolia ave., anna Maria, is open to kids ages kindergarten through fifth-grade. for more information, call the center at 941-778-1908. Islander Photo: courtesy center of aMI
the artists’ Guild of anna maria island planned to host saturday tea & art 11 a.m.-noon Oct. 5, as well as Nov. 2 and dec. 14.
the event at the gallery, 5414 marina drive, Holmes Beach, will include “fun for the whole family” with raffles, prizes and arts and crafts.
For more information, call the gallery at 941-7786694.
the palma sola Botanical park plans to hold its Fall plants & more sale 10 a.m.-3 p.m. sunday, Oct. 20.
the event will feature vendors selling native and exotic plants, wood, pottery, textile and jewelry art. also, shoppers will find lunch items and treats for sale, as well as live musical performances. the park is at 9800 17th ave. NW, Bradenton. For more information, call the park at 941-7612866.
realize Bradenton’s music in the park concert series will begin Friday, Oct. 4, and continue through the month.
concerts will be at 5:30 p.m. at rossi park, 452 third ave. W., Bradenton.
the lineup includes:
• mama Fuma performing latin funk Oct. 4;
• aBBa Nova performing a tribute to the pop group Oct. 11;
• Eric Von performing country Oct. 18;
• Jah movement performing reggae Oct. 25. people are encouraged to bring blankets and chairs.
realize Bradenton is organizing food vendors for the shows.
For more information, call 941-301-8445.
the Bradenton market will resume its weekly schedule on Old main street in October. the market will run saturdays 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Oct. 7-may 31 with a variety of vendors selling clothing, household goods and food items and musicians providing entertainment.
realize Bradenton coordinates the market.
For more, call the nonprofit at 941-301-8445.
manatee audubon will resume its monthly meetings in October, launching a new season of activities. the group will meet at Gettel toyota of lakewood, 5959 E. state road 64, Bradenton, at 6:30 p.m. on the third thursday of each month. the first meeting will be Oct. 17.
also, the group plans 26 field trips to local parks, as well as three member-based field trips and classes for 2024-25.
in October, the group will conduct an outing at anna maria’s Bayfront park at 8 a.m. saturday, Oct. 12.
For more information, email Bill pelletier at wrpelletier@yahoo.com.
another outing will be at 8 a.m. saturday, Oct. 19, at leffis Key preserve at coquina Bayside in Bradenton Beach.
For more information, email John Groskopf at jtgroskopf@hotmail.com.
to contact manatee audubon, call 941-729-2222 or email manateeaudubon@gmail.com.
MJefferson@bobscarpet.com
Bobscarpetmart.com
By lisa neff
roser memorial community church was to host tech Night 5:30-7 p.m. Friday, Oct. 4, to recruit “behind the scenes” volunteers.
a notice said, “Would you be interested in joining the roser church tech team? come visit the tech booth and see behind the scenes. Find out how we are able to broadcast our services.”
attendees will learn how to operate cameras and a soundboard, as well as project graphics and livestream video on screens.
the church is at 512 pine ave., anna maria. For more info, call roser at 941-778-0414.
roser church’s exercise class — a blend of faith, fitness and fun — was to resume Oct. 2.
sessions are at 9:30 a.m. tuesdays and thursdays in the fellowship hall.
the chair-based exercise class. led by instructor ann Bodger, is appropriate for older adults and those looking to lessen the impact on their joints.
attendees should bring their weights or two cans of fruit, which can be donated to the roser Food pantry.
the church is at 512 pine ave., anna maria. For more, call 941-778-0414.
cleaning supplies are arranged in the gym at the center of anna Maria Island, 407 Magnolia ave., to help islanders and island businesses with the recovery effort after Hurricane Helene’s strike. Donations were being accepted at the center, as well as at Duncan Real estate in anna Maria and other businesses on and off aMI. for more information about aid, go to page 6 and also check islander.org. Islander courtesy Photo
compiled by lisa neff
Friday, Oct 4
5:30 p.m. — Roser Memorial Community Church Tech Night, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Info: 941-778-0414. TENTATIVE
SAVE THE DATES
Oct. 16, Christ Church potluck supper, Longboat Key. Oct. 23, Christ Church book club resumes, Longboat Key. Oct. 28, Christ Church of Longboat Key seed packing session, Longboat Key.
Nov. 17, Roser Church Surviving the Holidays program, Anna Maria.
ONGOING ON AMI
CrossPointe Fellowship, 8605 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. Info: 941-778-0719.
Worship: Sundays, 9 a.m.
Ongoing: Wednesdays, 7 a.m., men’s Bible meeting; Wednesdays, 6:45 p.m., Wednesday Night Blasts; Fridays, 10 a.m. women’s Bible meeting.
Episcopal Church of the Annunciation, 4408 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. Info: 941-778-1638, amiannunciation.org.
Worship: Thursdays, 9:30 a.m.; Sundays, 9:15 a.m.
Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, 6608 Marina Drive. Holmes Beach. Info: 941-778-1813, gloriadeilutheran.com.
Worship: Sundays, 9:30 a.m., followed by coffee and fellowship.
Ongoing: First Sundays, food bank collections; Wednesdays, 9:30 a.m., women’s social gathering.
Harvey Memorial Community Church, 300 Church Ave., Bradenton Beach. Information: 941-779-1912.
Gathering is the religion section. please, send announcements, calendar listings and photos to lisa Neff at lisa@islander.org. please include a contact phone number and email address.
nick Deau and amanda Jaegers of chicago were engaged to be married sept. 15 on the anna Maria city Pier. friends of the aldersons, who own tyler’s Ice cream in cortez and on longboat Key, Deau and Jaegers visit often and love the area. Dan alderson said, “no official date yet. We’re working on them getting married here.” she said “yes,” and an ice cream celebration followed. Islander courtesy
Submit your social news, weddings, anniversaries, births, travel photos, fishing, sports and event news and photos to news@islander.org. SHARE THE FUN.
Worship: Sundays, 9:15 a.m.
Roser Memorial Community Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Information: 941-778-0414, roserchurch.com.
Worship: Sundays, 8:30 a.m., 10 a.m.
Ongoing: Tuesdays, 2 p.m., women’s book study.
St. Bernard Catholic Church, 248 S. Harbor Drive, Holmes Beach. Info: 941-778-4769, stbernardcc.org, office@stbernardcc. org.
Worship: Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m.; Saturdays, 4 p.m.; Sundays, 8:30 a.m., 10:30 a.m.
Ongoing: Monday-Friday, 8 a.m., rosary; Wednesdays, 7:30 a.m.; Rosary on the Beach at Manatee Public Beach; Saturdays, 3 p.m., confession.
Christ Church of Longboat Key Presbyterian USA, 6400 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key. Info: 941-900-4903, christchurchoflbk.org.
Worship: Sundays, 10 a.m.
Ongoing: Wednesdays, 10 a.m., women’s Bible study; first Sundays, 11:30 a.m., Connection Conversations; Mondays, 9 a.m., men’s Bible study.
Longboat Island Chapel, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key. Info: 941-383-6491, longboatislandchapel.org.
Worship: Sundays, 10 a.m.
Ongoing: Wednesdays, 10 a.m., Pastor’s Bible Study; Thursdays, Shifting Sands group.
Temple Beth Israel, 567 Bay Isles Road, Longboat Key. Info: 941-383-3428.
Worship: Fridays, Shabbat, 5:30 p.m.; Saturdays, 10 a.m.
Send listings to calendar@islander.org.
dorothy rose Eder, 104, of Bradenton and formerly of anna maria island, died sept. 17. she was born dec. 14, 1919. she and husband lloyd George Eder, who died in 2005, made Bradenton their home in 1967. throughout her life, her friends were her greatest treasure and she was theirs. she was a beacon of support for the people she loved and her home was a place everyone felt welcome.
she loved the theater and was active as a volunteer and on the board of directors at the island players. she had deep faith in God and the fellowship of saints peter & paul the apostles catholic church. Born before women had the vote, she lived an adventurous life with humor and zest. Her life’s mottos — “accept every invitation,” “try everything at least once,” and “when in rome, do as the romans do” — defined her active life of travel and frequent outings with friends.
While flying alone at age 101 to visit her son, she said the “flight attendants appeared quite nervous when i told them my age and ordered a whisky.” mrs. Eder is survived by a circle of friends and family, including dear friend thelma Hall, who was by her side almost every day in recent years; son William donohue and wife may of portland, Oregon; greatgranddaughter andrea donohue Zhou and husband andrew, also of portland; grandson Francis Edward Jr. and partner “ted” rudolph of santa Barbara, california; granddaughter alden Burlington and husband robert of coral Gables; and great-grandchildren Kent, austin and Brett Burlington.
By lisa neff
Night for Nature, set for 6-10 p.m. saturday, Oct. 12, at the palma sola Botanical park, 9800 17th ave. NW, Bradenton, will raise money for the park and the manatee Fish and Game association.
the event will feature bluegrass and country music by sycamore shade, a silent auction and food and beverages, including smoked mullet spread, smoked mullet, fried mullet, smoked chicken, cheese grits, coleslaw, hush puppies, swamp cabbage, sweet tea and Key lime pie.
the cost to attend is $65 per person or $400 for eight guests.
the attire is “dressy casual.”
For more information, call the park at 941-7612866.
• tingley memorial library in Bradenton Beach seeks volunteers for morning and afternoon shifts in the “fun and friendly” atmosphere. info: 941-7791208, bradentonbeachlibrary@gmail.com.
• the anna maria island privateers group seeks members and an indoor port for their boat-float. info: 941-896-0797.
• Wildlife inc. rescue and rehabilitation in Bradenton Beach seeks help tending to injured and sick animals. info: 941-778-6342.
• roser Food Bank seeks donations. roser memorial community church, 512 pine ave., anna maria, administers the pantry supported by all island denominations. info: 941-778-0414.
• roser Food Bank welcomes applicants who live, work or attend school on anna maria island for food assistance, roser church, 512 pine ave., anna maria. info: 941-778-0414.
• aid offers financial help to those who live on the island, go to church on the island, attend school on the island and work on the island. info: 941-725-2433.
do you work with a nonprofit in need of assistance on ami? are you looking to line up volunteers for a new season? Email listings to lisa Neff at lisa@ islander.org.
Milestones
the islander welcomes photographs and notices of milestones. submit announcements and photographs to news@islander.org.
Hurricane Helene disrupted school schedules, leading to three days of closure for anna maria Elementary.
and then amE classes were moved to the mainland.
the fi rst notice of closure came sept. 24, with the school district of manatee county announcing schools would close sept.25 and sept. 26.
On sept. 26, the district issued a notice that schools would be closed sept. 27 and would not resume until sept. 30.
the additional closure was to allow schools serving as shelters to complete operations and to give maintenance teams time to inspect campuses, according to communication director michael Barber. during the closure, several amE events were postponed, including the first school advisory council meeting and an awards assembly.
Barber said there were enough missed days to require make-up time, meaning students will not need to extend their school year due to the closures. and amE students as of sept. 30 were not resuming classes on ami.
devastation across anna maria island forced the school to remain closed until further notice.
the district announced sept. 28 it would move amE students and teachers to stewart Elementary, 7905 15th ave. NW, Bradenton. the two schools will share classrooms and adopt a team-teaching model until amE students and staff return to the island campus.
For more information, call amE at 941-708-5525 or go online to www.manateeschools.net/annamaria.
— Robyn Murrell
• Monday, Oct. 14, record day, no school.
•Friday, Oct. 25-26, Fall Fest bake sale.
• Saturday, Oct. 26, 4-8 p.m., PTO Fall Fest, Center of Anna Maria Island, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria.
• Wednesday, Nov. 6, early release.
• Monday, Nov. 11, Veterans Day, no school.
• Monday-Friday, Nov. 25-29, fall break, Thanksgiving, no school.
• Monday, Dec.16, 3:45 p.m., PTO general meeting, cafeteria.
•Wednesday, Dec. 20, teacher holiday cookie party.
• Monday-Tuesday, Dec. 23-31, winter break, no school.
AME is at 4700 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach.
For more information, call the school at 941-708-5525
the anna maria Elementary parent-teacher Organization is seeking chairs for its annual events in 2024-25.
Events needing chairs and co-chairs include teacher appreciation week, holiday shopper, school dances, a walk-a-thon, the spring gala and the gala silent auction.
chair duties include coordinating planning, decorating, advertising, securing sponsors and more.
“chairing an event is a great way to get involved with a lower time commitment than being a board member,” ptO president Jen serra wrote in an email to the islander sept. 25. “it also gets you involved with many other volunteer parents and usually leads to forming new and wonderful friendships.”
the ptO currently is planning the Fall Festival, which will be 4-8 p.m., saturday, Oct. 26, at the center of anna maria island, 407 magnolia ave., anna maria.
For more information, contact the ptO via email amepto@gmail.com or call the school at 941-7085525.
— Robyn Murrell
A night for skating, slices anna Maria elementary school resource Officer christine O’Brien, left, and Holmes Beach police chief William tokajer take a break from serving pizza sept. 20 at the Parent-teacher Organization skate night at the Island skate Park, 5801 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. the police department donated pizza from Domino’s Pizza and water. Islander Photos: courtesy Katie fradley
941.751.4668,
your counter. … this is going to be bad.’” tokajer did not get back to his house until about 3:30 p.m. sept. 27, after a full morning of assisting with recovery efforts.
He estimated 100% of the city’s ground-level properties were damaged by the storm, which flooded many with 3-4 feet of water.
some properties were even worse off.
“ t here are houses that are decimated. Not just from water damage but from the sheer pressure of the water coming at them,” tokajer said. “there was nothing that anybody could do about it. You just couldn’t stop mother Nature.”
resident Briana Gagnier, a commercial fisher who stayed on the island, told the islander sept. 27 that she and her parents escaped her home after it began to flood.
a n evacuation for the island was issued ahead of Helene but Gagnier said she was “stubborn” and decided to stay since the hurricane was not set to hit the area directly.
she said that things were OK until she and her parents heard the sound of her garage door cave in, and water began pouring into the property.
a delivery truck makes a splash sept. 26 as it barrels through on Marina Drive in Holmes Beach.
Islander Photo: Jacob Merrifield
anna Maria Beach cafe at the Manatee Public Beach in Holmes Beach doesn’t waste time sept. 29 cleaning up the sand that washed up at the outdoor patio during Hurricane Helene — they moved it out fast with heavy equipment. Many restaurants and other food service businesses were flooded and refrigeration units and coolers were no longer functioning. Dennis Miller of small town creamery in Holmes Beach said his coolers moved arouxnd in flood waters that washed into his ice cream and candy shop in the Island shopping center almost “mystically.” Other restaurants on the island, from the Waterfront and sandbar in anna Maria to the Beach House and Moose lodge in Bradenton Beach were washed out by the surge and left with 2-3 feet of sand and demolished equipment and furnishings. Islander Photo: Bonner Joy
“We all looked at each other and grabbed the dog leashes, put the chinchilla cage on the highest point of the kitchen counter. … We opened the door and (the water) was up to my shoulders,” Gagnier said. “i’ve been through some stuff, but that was probably the scariest moment of my life.”
she said they swam to a two-story home and got inside before rescuing two elderly neighbors from another flooding home.
“all night, we just watched the disaster unfold. the water just kept rising and rising. at the highest point it was above our mailbox. We watched fires erupt next to us. Homes on fire. car alarms going off. the lights turning on. Out of a nightmare, really,” she said. Her cars and home — as well as many others — were ruined by water damage.
“it’s completely catastrophic,” Gagnier said.
resident patricia Buffat told the islander sept. 28 that she was able to safely wait out the storm from a second-floor condominium unit with the company of daniel miracle, a local homeless person also known as “Barefoot daniel” or “cowboy.”
Buffat said she has known miracle for years. she said she found miracle at an island bus stop ahead of the storm and offered to bring him back to her place for shelter.
Buffat said her condo lost water and power, but both were restored by sept. 28 and the property was largely unscathed.
she said miracle was staying at her place for the time being and had been enjoying binge-watching “Breaking Bad” since power was restored.
Following the storm, Buffat said she and miracle drove around the island and were shocked by the devastation.
she began assisting with restoration efforts for others.
Buffat praised the island community, which she said has pulled together to support each other in the wake of Helene.
“Whatever we can do to help other people out is what we do,” she said. “that’s why i wanted to live on the island. the people have the biggest hearts. they really work together and take care of each other.”
to recover from the storm.
“there is considerable damage up and down this island to the business community,” seymour said. “For some, it’s going to take days. For some it’s going to take weeks and for some it’s going to take months, if not years — if ever.”
“i wouldn’t see this island getting back to a sense of normalcy until — if we’re lucky — spring break of next year,” he added. “i don’t know how many homeowners and mom-and-pop businesses can survive.”
Following the storm, duncan found herself spearheading local recovery efforts.
On sept. 27, duncan had a staff member create the Facebook group “anna maria island Hurricane Helene relief” to centralize island recovery and support efforts.
“the next thing you know, we were having people show up on my dock to deliver supplies,” she said. “We had a police escort tonight arrive at the center (of anna maria island) … with an entire box truck full of supplies.”
t he Facebook group is public and had gained 5,711 members as of sept. 29.
d uncan, who has worked with the Bradentonbased manatee community Foundation, said the mcF helped coordinate a group call between her and a handful of organizations to direct the support efforts.
“i have never in my life seen the outpouring of support and help,” she said. “it’s just been truly amazing.”
people can support island property owners, residents and businesses by donating to the mcF disaster relief fund at manateecf.org.
r esources for islanders — such as nonperishable food items, bottled water, bleach, mold remover, shovels, trash bags, paper towels and more — can be dropped off at a handful of locations, including:
• meals on Wheels plus at 811 23rd ave. E, Bradenton, and 10920 state road 70, lakewood ranch;
• O’Bricks, 427 12th st. W, Bradenton;
• Well cycle studio, 7109 15th ave. NW, Bradenton;
• mean deans local Kitchen, 6059 26th st. W, Bradenton.
mcF was set to distribute cleaning supplies on the island Oct. 2.
trucks heading north create a wake on Marina Drive in Holmes Beach late morning sept. 26, a day after an evacuation notice went into effect. the stormwater eventually flooded the stores up to 3 feet deep and the Manatee county Island library remained closed. Islander
gloria Dei lutheran church in Holmes Beach is surrounded by floodwaters sept. 26 ahead of Helene’s passage in the gulf.
By Ryan Paice Islander Reporter
West manatee Fire rescue staff have been working in overdrive since Hurricane Helene passed through Sept. 26.
Fire marshal r odney Kwiatkowski told t he islander sept. 28 that the district received 103 calls for assistance and completed 44 water rescues over the night of sept. 26.
t he district includes all of a nna m aria i sland, cortez and areas of the west side of unincorporated manatee county.
Kwiatkowksi said staff had a “great” gameplan going into the storm but were still taken by surprise from the intensity of the storm surge.
“You’re always prepared, but because we’ve always been so fortunate in the past, with them missing, you kind of just expect it to miss and not be that bad. certainly not as bad as it was,” he said. during disasters like a hurricane, manatee county does not have the staffing to handle dispatching, so 911
calls are forwarded to fire districts like WmFr, which handle regional dispatching.
W m F r s tation 3, 6001 m arina d rive, Holmes Beach, served as the district’s hub for island services during the storm and its staff spent much of the night responding to any calls for help that they could address.
at other times, station 3 staff had to bunker down and shelter in place.
Kwiatkowski said the hardest part of handling regional dispatch was handling calls the district was unable to address.
“Our resources were overwhelmed by the number of calls,” Kwiatkowski said. “it’s very chaotic … and frankly, it’s just sad having to tell people ‘Hey, i hear you, but there is no one coming. You have to try to get to higher ground or get on the roof if you have to, and we’ll get to you when we can.’”
W m F r also received calls about five structure fires within the district over the night of the storm, many of which the district was unable to respond to.
Kwiatkowski said three of the fires resulted in total losses to the impacted properties, including two in cortez and one in Holmes Beach.
“the moral of this story is to take these evacuations seriously because the overwhelming majority of these 103 calls were water rescues,” he said. “secure the power and evacuate.”
calls for help did not stop after the storm passed.
Kwiatkowski said the district ran 95 calls from 11 a.m. s ept. 27-11 a.m. s ept. 28 in response to structure fires, medical emergencies and electrical hazards.
“those calls are coming. they keep coming,” he said.
While the district continued to field calls for help, Kwiatkowski and inspector Josh adkins was set to deploy sept. 29 to the panhandle to assist with efforts there.
Kwiatkowski said they would inspect fire stations and state buildings alongside a team of professionals, such as structural engineers and electricians.
a home at 1207 gulf Drive s., Bradenton Beach, lies shifted on its foundation and crushed sept. 28.
Islander Photo: Robert anderson
a view of the anna Maria Oyster Bar sept. 28 from the Historic Bridge street Pier, 200 Bridge st., Bradenton Beach. the pier was covered with debris after enduring a 5–7foot storm surge and wave action associated with Hurricane Helene, which passed the area sept. 26. Islander Photo: Robert anderson
Habitual traffic offender arrested in Holmes Beach
Holmes Beach police arrested Bradenton resident Jeff Gregg, 47, Sept. 18 on a third-degree felony charge for driving with a suspended license as a habitual offender.
An officer saw a motorist around 10:49 p.m. fail to stop or slow down for a fl ashing red light at the intersection of Gulf Drive and Manatee Avenue.
The officer conducted a traffic stop and spoke with the driver, Gregg, who had a suspended driver’s license.
The officer searched Gregg’s driving history and found he was a habitual offender, so he arrested the man.
Gregg was cited for a red light violation and transported to the Manatee County jail. He was released Sept. 19 after posting $2,500 bond.
If convicted, punishment for a third-degree felony charge includes up to five years in prison, five years of probation and a fine of up to $5,000.
An arraignment will be at 9 a.m. Friday, Nov. 8, at the Manatee County Judicial Center, 1051 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton.
— Ryan Paice
Island watch
In an emergency, call 911. To report information, call the MCSO Anna Maria substation, 941-7088899; Bradenton Beach police, 941-778-6311; or Holmes Beach police, 941-708-5804.
Island police reports
compiled by Robert Anderson and Ryan Paice Anna Maria
Sept. 23, 500 block of Loquat Drive, fraud. A resident reported a fraud involving a contractor who did not complete a project. The resident was advised to retain the contracted agreement. An incident report was filed.
The Manatee County Sheriff’s Office polices Anna Maria.
Lisa Neff
• Cortez Bridge/State Road 684 : The Florida Department of Transportation will begin relocating utilities on the Cortez Bridge in mid-October from 123rd Street West in Cortez to Gulf Drive North in Bradenton Beach. The project is expected to continue into 2026. Motorists will experience lane closures, detours and side street closures 7 a.m.-7 p.m. MondayFriday. A bike lane and sidewalk in Cortez also will be closed, requiring a detour. For more information, go to amiprojects.io.
Bradenton Beach
No new reports.
The Bradenton Beach Police Department polices Bradenton Beach.
Cortez
Sept. 18, 4600 block of 124th Street W., trespass. A Manatee County Sheriff’s deputy responded to a call concerning trespassing. A woman was taking a shower outside a restroom intended for employees. The deputy told the woman she was trespassed from the premises. An incident report was filed.
The MCSO polices Cortez.
Holmes Beach
Sept. 17, Kingfish Boat Ramp, 752 Manatee Ave., theft. A complainant called the Holmes Beach Police Department to report several items were stolen from his vessel. He did not provide a registration number for the vessel or serial numbers for the stolen items. The complainant said the vessel was inoperable without the items. He said the theft had occurred within the past year.
Sept. 17, Manatee Public Beach, 4000 Gulf Drive, harassment. A Holmes Beach police officer responded to reports of stalking and found two juvenile complainants. They said an adult man approached and verbally harassed them after battering one of them the day before. The officer spoke with the juveniles’ mothers and no one wanted to pursue charges.
• City center in Holmes Beach: Manatee County’s final work on a force main project on Holmes Boulevard, Marina Drive and side streets remains open. The posted completion date is this fall, as the contractor is “working to complete final project activities, punch-list items and clean up.” For the latest, go to amiprojects. io.
For area road watch information, go online to swflroads.com or dial 511
Sept. 22, 3700 block of Fifth Avenue, construction. An officer responded to reports of construction on a Sunday and spoke with employees at the site. The officer told them no work was to be done on Sundays and issued a citation for a city code violation. They left the construction site without issue.
HBPD polices Holmes Beach.
Streetlife is based on reports and narratives from the BBPD, HBPD and MCSO.
You can peruse the Islander newspaper archive, dating back to its launch in November 1992, at ufdc. ufl.edu.
Manatee County announced construction to relocate utilities at the Cortez Bridge is set to commence this month.
The $7.2 million project will focus on relocating utilities along Cortez Road West, specifically between Gulf Drive North in Bradenton Beach and 123rd Street West in Cortez.
Construction is expected to extend through early 2026.
The county public works department is relocating a water main and force main at their Intracoastal crossing to the south side of the drawbridge in preparation for the construction of a new fixed bridge. The project requires the relocations due to the proposed bridge alignment.
The county advised that motorists should anticipate intermittent lane closures, side street detours and shifts in traffic to accommodate construction deliveries.
Construction activities will primarily occur 7 a.m.-7 p,m. Monday-Friday.
As construction ramps up, county work might include equipment storage within public spaces, the operation of pumps for dewatering and heavy machinery activity.
Neighbors were advised to expect increased noise, vibrations and truck movement throughout the construction zone.
For more information, go online to amiprojects.io or contact the project team at 941 306-4660 and info@ amiprojects.io.
— Robert Anderson
A pedestrian/bicycle detour map from Manatee county shows an alternate route for cyclists and pedestrians during construction for a utility relocation project at the cortez Bridge. Islander Image: courtesy Manatee county
By Robert Anderson Islander Reporter
The Longboat Pass Bridge might be getting a facelift rather than a replacement.
Longboat Key commissioners Sept. 23 received an update on the bridge — the subject of a project, development and environment study at the Florida Department of Transportation — from town public works director Isaac Brownman during a meeting at town hall, 501 Bay Isles Road.
Brownman told commissioners the DOT decided to consider repairing the Longboat Pass Bridge.
He said during an Aug. 23 meeting with DOT officials he was told that “due to inflationary pressures being experienced across the state on all FDOT projects, the FDOT is analyzing the merits of repairing the existing bridge to extend the life of the bridge further in the short- to mid-term.”
“Everything we have been talking about with the inflation and the deferrals, Longboat Pass bridge is going to be one of the deferrals,” he said.
He said the DOT has now introduced an option to fix the bridge “as is.”
“Because of inflationary pressures and because of all the projects in the region, they’re really looking at simply extending the bridge’s life at this point,” Brownman said. “Otherwise, they cannot do the bridge
replacement at all, with the funding they have.”
Brownman did not have estimates on cost or timing and said he needed to seek more information from the DOT on what improvements would be needed.
Town commissioner B.J. Bishop asked about the extent of repairs needed and voiced concerns for public safety.
“My definition of emergency fix is pretty significant,” Bishop said.
Commissioner Debra Williams said the bridge is a key component in an evacuation and called for the town to pressure the DOT.
“I think we need to really pay attention to using that as an evacuation route. It’s not acceptable to say, ‘well we have an old ageing bridge there and it’s fine,’” Williams said. “It’s not fine. DOT knows it’s not fine. We know it’s not fine.”
The bridge, between Longboat Key and Bradenton Beach, has been under study by the DOT for replacement since June 2020.
The bridge was built in 1957 and repaired in 2005 and 2020 but faces functional obsolescence due to substandard shoulders and traffic barriers, according to the DOT.
The DOT had been working to finalize a design concept for a bridge by late 2025, with preliminary engineering scheduled for 2026 and the start of construction proposed for the early 2030s.
The DOT had proposed three bridge options: lowlevel and mid-level bascule bridges and a high-clearance fixed-span bridge.
Longboat Key officials had recommended the midlevel bascule in a June 28 letter to the DOT.
The Islander reached out the DOT by email Sept. 26 but due to Hurricane Helene offices were closed. As of Islander press time Sept. 30, there was no reply.
The Islander reached out to the Longboat Key Mayor Ken Schnier by email Sept. 26 but town offices were closed due to Hurricane Helene and, as of Islander press time Sept. 30, there was no reply.
By Kevin P. cassidy Islander Reporter
The youth soccer league at the Center of Anna Maria Island officially kicked off the recreational season Sept. 24 with three games in the 8-10 division and two games in the 11-14 age division.
The action got rolling on the center pitch with La Creperie taking on Moss Builders in an 8-10 division game.
Creperie seemed to be in control for most of the first half as Parker Svoboda, Grayson Hinckle and Louis Bacon made several deep runs at the Moss Builders’ defense, but some errant shots and a few timely saves from Moss goalie Titus Moss kept the game scoreless.
With 2:35 left in the first half, Joseph Caballero got loose on a breakaway and scored to give Moss Builders a 1-0 lead that held through the half.
Asher Patel added a pair of second-half goals for Moss to offset a Creperie goal from Louis Bacon as Moss held on for a 3-1 victory.
Patel’s two goals paced Moss Builders, which also received a goal from Caballero and nine saves from Titus Moss in the victory.
Bacon notched the lone goal on an assist from Hinckle, while Sawyer Leibfried managed seven saves for La Creperie in the loss.
The second 8-10 division match of the evening saw Solid Rock Construction ease past Gulf Drive Cafe by a 2-0 score. Evangeline Zupa and Ruby Kesten each scored a goal to lead Solid Rock Construction, which also received an assist from Elijah Roadman and a combined seven saves from Roadman and Kellan Oelfke in the victory.
Roman Smith and Owen Mahoney combined to make five saves to lead Gulf Drive Cafe in the loss.
Adrian Griffin Interiors cruised to a 3-0 victory over the Fish Guy Aquarium Services in the third 8-10 division match of the night. Jackson Griffi n paced Adrian Griffi n Interiors with a hat trick in the victory, while Kalvin Kroth made seven saves and Judah Treworgy had three.
Wesley Bekkerus and Deacon Bekkerus combined to make six saves for the Fish Guy in the loss.
Better On Bikes rolled to a 6-2 victory over Shady Lady Horticultural Services to open Sept. 24 action in the 11-14 age division. Preston LaPensee paced Better On Bikes with four goals, while Renan Kesten chipped in with a goal and two assists. Greyson Savchuk added
a goal to complete the scoring for Better On Bikes in the victory.
Jesse Zaccagnino scored a pair of goals to pace Shady Lady, which also received five saves each from Jack Zaccagnino and Sawyer Leibfried in the loss.
The last 11-14 division match of the night saw the Gitt Team — KW On The Water and HSH Design battle to a 3-3 tie.
Michael Dean Spoon, Ryk Kesten and Phoenix Harwood each scored goals and Austin Guess came through with five saves in the draw.
Luke Willing had two goals and an assist and Sterling Holiday added a goal to lead HSH Designs in the tie.
Due to the arrival of Hurricane Helene, golf action at the Key Royale Club in Holmes Beach was cut short by a day. Here’s hoping that’s the extent of the problems brought on by the storm were minimal.
The men played their weekly modified-Stableford system match Sept. 23. Ron Huibers, Fred Miller and Rich Salzburg each carded scores of plus-1 to share bragging rights for the day.
The women played a nine-hole individual-lownet match Sept. 24. Terry Westby fired a 1-under-par 31 to win the day’s proceedings by three strokes over second-place finisher Jana Samuels who finished at 2-over-par 34. Jenny Huibers and Sue Wheeler tied for third at 4-over-par 36 and Margrit Layh had a chip-in on the eighth hole.
Danny Stasny’s fishing report will return next week. Meanwhile, wet a line and enjoy fishing around Anna Maria Island. Be sure to send us a fishing report and photos of your catch. — the Islander news@islander.org
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission in partnership with Wildlife Forever, is hosting the 2024-25 Art of Conservation Fish Art Contest.
The annual program invites youth to connect with nature and learn about fish and aquatic habitats while exploring creative art and writing.
Since its founding in 1997, the contest has reached more than 85,000 youth in 46 countries.
The free contest is accessible to students from kindergarten through 12th-grade.
Each year, thousands of entries pour in from across the globe.
One first-place winner and one runner-up will be selected for each grade bracket in a freshwater category and saltwater category. The brackets are:
• Kindergarten through third-grade;
• Fourth- through sixth-grade;
• Seventh- through ninth-grade;
• 10th- through 12-grade.
For more information, including entry forms, go to myfwc.com/fishart.
The contest is open for submissions until Feb. 28, 2025.
— Lisa Neff
The Anna Maria Island Sail & Power Squadron will host a two-day safe boating course Saturday, Oct. 21, and Saturday, Oct. 28.
The sessions will be 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. at the Cortez Road Baptist Church, 4411 100 St. W., Bradenton.
Registration is required.
The cost is $55 per person or $85 per couple.
For more, call 941-447-7845 or go to usps.org/ annamaria/public_courses.html.
— Lisa Neff
By Masha Dolgoff
Eight remaining sea turtle nests were on Anna Maria Island beaches ahead of Hurricane Helene, which whipped wind and delivered strong surge Sept. 26-27.
Kristen Mazzarella, executive director of Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring, told The Islander Sept. 26 that she wasn’t expecting the nests to survive.
“The beach cams don’t look good,” Mazzarella said. “We’re not hopeful that they’re going to make it through this surge.”
Water from a storm surge can put a nest under threat because it gets into the sand, effectively drowning the eggs.
If a tidal cycle goes by and water gets into a nest before draining rapidly, most of the eggs probably will survive.
“However, if they’re held underwater for long
Manatee county lifeguard tower No.
3 sits overturned Sept. 28 as a result of storm surge and wave action associated with Hurricane Helene. the storm scoured the beach and dunes and sent sand onto roads, mostly rendering them impassable.
periods of time, the eggs won’t be fine and they stop developing,” she said.
As for the survival of the sea turtles in the open water, Mazzarella said adult turtles often will know to swim out of the way of a hurricane.
“They’ll move out of an area where a storm is,” she said. “They might go deeper or sit on the bottom for a while.”
Henrietta, the Anna Maria Island contestant in the Sea Turtle Conservancy’s Tour de Turtles marathon, was in the Tampa Bay area Sept. 26, according to a satellite tracker
But a new location was recorded Sept. 27, the day after, as the turtle made a significant departure from the area she had been circling for almost two months.
Henrietta was in the Gulf southeast of Spring Hill.
As for sea turtle hatchlings, Mazzarella said it’s difficult to determine what they do during a storm or their chances of survival.
Because of their high mortality rate, they are not typically outfitted with satellites.
Reaching sargassum is a crucial step for survival of hatchlings as they get protection and nourishment from the path of floating algae, where they stay for a few years.
The sargassum moves around and the hatchlings move with it, which makes locating them difficult.
As air-breathing reptiles, they are susceptible to the effects of extreme weather.
“They may be fine, I don’t know the answer to that
Pasta Lotsa Pasta,’’ came out in July. Puzzles and children’s books are ‘‘both ways to stretch out language,’’ she says. ‘‘They’re about using every sentence,
every letter to its absolute fullest.’’ Having two related hobbies comes in handy: ‘‘I definitely use puzzles to procrastinate writing, and writing to procrastinate puzzles!’’
Answers: page 24
question,” Mazzarella said. “There have been some studies that tracked them we just haven’t tracked them through hurricanes yet.”
AMITW gave preference to the safety of its volunteers as it paused its beach patrol Sept. 26 and Sept. 27. Mazzarella said that turtle watch might have to hold off even longer because of how much damage the island sustained.
She said, “Although we hope the environmental consequences on the sea turtles were limited, our foremost thoughts are with the turtle watch volunteers and other people weathering the storm and its after-effects on the island.
Henrietta, Anna Maria Island’s entry in the 2024 tour de turtles, was swimming in ninth place out of 10 in the research-focused marathon as of Sept. 27. Henrietta was tagged with a satellite tracker in June at coquina Beach for the “race” that began Aug. 2. From the tour de turtles, researchers learn about where adult sea turtles swim, as well as how often they go ashore to nest and where. As of Sept. 27, Henrietta had logged 182 miles. Islander Screenshot
By Lisa Neff
My parents have had a place in Madeira Beach a few years longer than the nearly 20 years I’ve lived in Florida, but not until this past week, with Helene, have the seasonal residents sat through a hurricane.
And I do mean “sat.”
My parents experienced the hurricane — before, during and after — with my wife and I in our Bradenton condo.
We sat on the couch.
We sat on the porch.
We sat on the lanai.
We sat at the dining room table.
While sitting on the lanai in the sunshine of a clear Wednesday afternoon, we did wonder why we pushed up their evacuation to late Sept. 24, days ahead of the storm’s anticipated landfall in the Big Bend.
We always jump the gun, I said.
I don’t like being late, rushed or unprepared.
My parents expected to spend their first hurricane watch with a couple of experienced storm survivors, as Connie and I have gone through Irma, Ian, Idalia and other storms.
But are any of us really know-it-alls? What I’ve learned with every storm that comes up to threaten our area is that there is much I don’t know about hurricanes, currents, winds, rains, surge and even our regions.
I’m not alone.
The big laugh in many hours of waiting for Helene came when our group of four saw a surge map on the Weather Channel that incorrectly identified Madeira Beach as “Mitchell Beach.”
Ahead of Hurricane Helene, scientists with the U.S. Geological Survey deployed 13 wave sensors Sept. 25 between Venice and Panama City. The sensors were deployed to measure water levels and give insight on factors such as wave height and frequency, storm tide and storm surge.
The sensors, including one on a jetty on Longboat Key, were to be in place until after the storm passed.
The information generated could be used to finetune storm surge and coastal change forecasts, identify areas hit the hardest by storm surge and guide emergency responders and local officials with recovery efforts.
Insight also might inform adjusting flood insurance maps and building codes to improve structural designs for public safety.
“Studying Helene and other storms gives realworld insight that’s valuable in helping with community preparedness,” Kevin Grimsley, part of this deployment effort and the associate center director for data with the USGS Caribbean-Florida Water Science Center, said in a news release. “Wave sensors capture data at a very high frequency, so we are able to receive extremely detailed and comprehensive records.”
The wave sensors, housed in vented aluminum pipes a few inches wide and about a foot long, were installed on bridges, piers and other structures.
— Lisa Neff
“Who is Mitchell?” we wondered. Was someone in graphics at the Weather Channel having a little fun?
We switched over to Bay News 9 to watch videos of gawkers tripping in the pre-storm surf and slipping off the piers ahead of the storm and to get a regional perspective on Helene’s track and forecasted impact.
As we watched, we depleted the soda supply and cookie stock and then had a sugar-shocked conversation about where the Big Bend region ends and the Panhandle begins.
We agreed The Islander’s 2025 storm section must include a map of Florida Gulf coast’s regions that read-
ers can pull out and check while the TV forecasters talk about tracks.
Because I had about 12 hours from when I thought we’d lose power to when we temporarily lost power in Helene, I had plenty of time to look around for such a map and get more familiar with the regions.
One I found was a color-coded map posted on Live Storm Chasers’ Facebook page with a message to know your zone.
There are just five, according to the map:
• Panhandle, including Escambia, Santa Rosa, Okaloosa, Walton, Holmes, Washington, Bay, Jackson, Calhoun, Liberty, Gulf and Franklin counties.
• Big Bend, including Gadsden, Leon, Wakulla, Jefferson, Madison, Taylor, Lafayette, Dixie and Levy counties,
• Peninsula, including Citrus, Hernando, Pasco, Pinellas, Hillsborough, Manatee, Sarasota, Charlotte and Lee counties.
• Emerald Coast, including coastal Escambia, Santa Rosa, Okaloosa and Bay.
• Forgotten Coast, including coastal Gulf and Franklin.
• Nature Coast, including coastal Wakulla and Taylor.
I don’t know why, but the map omits Collier and Monroe counties. So I guess I have more research to occupy my time during the next blow, which hopefully will not be as devastating as Helene was to so many.
My parents were waiting again Sept. 27 not for the approaching storm but for the go-ahead from the Pinellas County EOC to return and assess the damage to their condo in MadBeach.
Connie and I also were waiting Sept. 27 for the go-ahead to get out to Anna Maria Island for our work and to pitch in where we could with the recovery.
We can’t wait or sit any longer.
#AMITOGETHER.
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ANtIQUE PARtNER DESK: All wood, $500. Inquire at the Islander office, 315 58th St. Suite J, Holmes Beach. 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. org. (limited time offer).
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KIDS FOR HIRE ads are FREE for up to three weeks for Island youths under 16 looking for work. Ads must be placed in person at the Islander office, 315 58th St. Suite J, Holmes Beach.
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SERVICES Continued
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2BR/1BA ANNUAL LEASE: Electric/ac/heat all included. $2,975/month. Looking for 1 or 2 quiet adults with no pets or smoking. Steps to Gulf. Owner-occupied duplex. Owner, 508496-8480. williamshomes@yahoo.com.
JANUARY 2025 AVAILABLE: Snowbird special! Perico Island patio home, single floor, high ceilings, 3BR/2BA, privacy wall/gate, two-car garage. call or text Alison, 859-7716423. www.pericoislandrental.com
LAKEFRONt cONDO: 2BR/2BA 1,450-foot gated, pool. Available December, January, March. text, 416-985-0623.
SEASONAL RENtAL AVAILABILItIES: 2BR/1BA duplex $3,300/month, Anna Maria, and 2BR/1.5BA townhouse, $4,000/month, Holmes Beach. Information, 941-778-2259, dina@annamariareal.com.
ANNA MARIA 3BR/1BA historic cottage, halfblock to Gulf beach and one block to Pine Avenue shopping and restaurants. Available November 2024, $3,200/month. 941-7788456, terryaposporos@gmail.com.
WEStBAY cOVE cONDO: Holmes Beach. Second floor, 2BR/2BA, large lanai. Pools, tennis, one block to Gulf. Available November, December, 2024. $3,200/month. 30-day minimum. 941-778-8456. terryaposporos@ gmail.com
WINNIE McHALE, REALtOR, 941-5046146. Dalton Wade Real Estate. You need an aggressive and experienced Realtor in today’s market! Selling island homes, Sarasota and Bradenton areas. Multi-milliondollar producer! “Selling Homes - Making Dreams come true.”
2BR/2BA HOME for sale. 3,000 sfur. 1,100 sf garage. Steps to beach. $1,449,000. 941518-6329.
PRIVAtE SALE: tHE perfect VRBO or private vacation home. Beautiful beachside bungalow direct marina front with vocks are available. Just off the SR 64 causeway at Palma Sola Bay in the highly sought-after community of Palma Sola Park. this beautiful 2BR/2BA, sleeps 8 with heated salt pool and large tiki bar. $1,200,000. contact owner, 941-661-6196.
The Islander newspaper joins the Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce in welcoming new members to the chamber’s roster in June and July, including:
V Partners Solutions, Vanessa Castro, 941-5879489.
Distractions on the Island, Silena Hammond, 5306 Holmes Blvd., Suite 720, Holmes Beach, 920-8195348.
Chef Melissa’s Kitchen (catering), Melissa Dedloff, 941-807-0844.
Vlad Tokarev Cleaners & Housekeeping, 413-8879335.
Edibles N More, Mel Wendel, 5368 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, 855-334-2530.
Loveland Center, Gina Fry, 5704 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton, 941-493-0016, Ext. 400.
Project 11:11 Inc., Erin Gallivan, 4818 Holiday Drive, Tampa, 857-293-1333.
Love and Style Photography, 4114 Pinar Drive, Bradenton, 941-960-6485.
Chi Photography, Paul Chi Nguyen, 6501 61st Drive E., Palmetto, 727-481-5737.
Reed Medical, Angie Weaver, 6350 Gulf of Mexico Drive, #101, Longboat Key, 941-677-7220.
Gulf2Bay Pools, Mariann Myott, 941-313-3230. Marc Bouclier tours, 941-799-6285.
Gypsea Tides, retail store, Rexann Cecil, 5602 Marina Drive, Unit A, Holmes Beach, 941-2853130.
Rich’s Hat Emporium, William Mark and Matti Rhodes, 5337 Gulf Dr. Suite, 200, Holmes Beach, 941356-9822.
Clippers Barber Shop, 8208 Cortez Road W., Bradenton, 941-920-6442.
Kelly’s Island Transportation/KIT, Kelly Guarna, 570-259-3080.
Plan My Beach Wedding, Lucrecia Bagnati, 2516 W. Burr Oak Court, Sarasota, 941-302-4333.
For more, call the chamber at 941-778-1541 or go online to annamariaislandchamber.org.
By carol Bernard
312 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria, a 1,312 square foot 3BR/2BA home on a 7,540 square foot lot built in 1980 sold 8/9/2024 by Dina to 312 Magnolia LLC for $1,100,000 list price $1,250,000.
1801 Gulf Drive, #258, Bradenton Beach, a 691 square foot 1BR/1BA Runaway Bay condo built in 1978 sold 8/7/2024 0by Carroll to Kurtz for $382,500, list price $419,000.
1801 Gulf Drive, #268, Bradenton Beach, a 1,080 square foot 2BR/2BA Runaway Bay condo built in 1978 sold 8/20/2024 by Wilson to Runaway Bay 268 LLC for $455,000, list price $499,000.
1801 Gulf Drive, #231, Bradenton Beach, a 1,080 square foot 2BR/2BA Runaway Bay condo built in 1978 sold 8/6/2024 by Gradeler to RAB231 LLC for $480,000, list price $529,000.
Thursday, Oct. 3
By Lisa Neff
8-9:30 a.m. — AMI Chamber of Commerce breakfast meeting, Compass Hotel Anna Maria Sound, 12324 Manatee Ave. W., Perico Island. Fee applies. Information: 941-778-1541.
4 p.m. — Manatee Chamber Small Business of the Year Awards, Bradenton Area Convention Center, 1 Haben Blvd., Palmetto. Fee applies. Information: 941-748-3411.
SAVE THE DATES
Oct. 10, AMI chamber luncheon, Lazy Lobster, 5350 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key.
Oct. 19, 10 a.m.-9 p.m., AMI chamber Bayfest, Pine Avenue, Anna Maria.
Oct. 24, 5 p.m., AMI chamber business card exchange, Shore Thing Tiki Cruises, Historic Bridge Street Pier, Bradenton Beach. Nov. 7, 4 p.m., Manatee Chamber Fall Expo, LECOM Park, 1611 Ninth St. W., Bradenton.
Dec. 6, 9 a.m., Manatee Chamber Golf Tournament, Palm Aire Country Club, 5601 Country Club Way, Sarasota. Send listings to calendar@islander.org.
Business news Does your business celebrate achievements? Maybe you’re new in business or your staff deserves kudos. Submit your information to news@islander.org.
1801 Gulf Drive #290, Bradenton Beach, a 1,080 square foot 2BR/2BA Runaway Bay condo built in 1978 sold 8/28/2024 by Dady to Dolphin Baycation LLC for $630,000, list price $659,000.
2214 Ave. B, #A, Bradenton Beach, a 1,674 square foot 4BR/4BA home on a 5,001 square foot lot built in 1983 sold 8/21/2024 by Cibel to Rick Peretz Trust for $1,100,000, list price $1,295,000.
25 Seaside Court, Holmes Beach, a 1,077 square foot 2BR/2BA Seaside Gardens Villa built in 1964 sold 8/20/2024 by Dangelo to Beeson for $655,000, list price $675,000.
6250 Holmes Blvd., #24, Holmes Beach, a 1,272 square foot 2BR/3BA North Beach Village townhome built in 1990 sold 8/26/2024 by Landers to Diferdinando for $750,000, list price $799,000.
6250 Holmes Blvd., #65, Holmes Beach, a 1,206 square foot 3BR/2BA North Beach Village townhome built in 1990 sold 8/27/2024 by Mullet Tales LLC to Klumpel for $775,000, list price $799,000.
5608 Gulf Drive, #108, Holmes Beach, a 1,092 square foot 2BR/2BA Sun Plaza West condo built in 1981 sold 8/15/2024 by Fontana to Fontprops Co LLC for $805,000, list price $830,000.
6250 Holmes Blvd., #58, Holmes Beach, a 1,800 square foot 3BR/3BA North Beach Village townhome built in 1992 sold 8/21/2024 by Enrooth to Crane for $939,000, list price $995,000.
608 Foxworth Lane, Holmes Beach, a 1,788 square foot 3BR/2BA home on a 10,977 square foot lot built in 1970 sold 8/16/2024 by Morrison to McCarkle for $1,000,000, list price $1,150,000.
526 69th St., Holmes Beach, a 1,644 square foot 2BR/2BA pool home on a 9,200 square foot lot built in 1968 sold 8/2/2024 by Ercoli to Waller IV Prop LLC $1,195,000, list price $1,275,000.
611 Dundee Lane, Holmes Beach, a 1,735 square foot 2BR/2BA home on a 10,280 square foot lot built in 1980 sold 8/28/2024 by Tucker to Quire for $1,200,000, list price $1,250,000.
Compiled by Island Real Estate staff. IRE can be reached at 941-778-6066, islandreal.com.
By Robert Anderson Islander Reporter
Business owners from the Bridge Street Merchants Association were offered a chance to visit their businesses by the city of Bradenton Beach prior to the official opening to residents.
They gathered and were escorted Sept. 29 to Bradenton Beach by Bradenton Beach Police from the shopping center at 75th Street and Cortez Road to assess damage to their properties following Hurricane Helene.
BBPD Officer John Tsakari led the group in a convoy from the parking lot of Shoppes of Paradise Bay at 7224 Cortez Rd. W., to Bradenton Beach.
Bradenton Beach has been open only to emergency services and storm damage restoration crews following the Sept. 26 passing of Hurricane Helene, which caused widespread damage to the area, leaving many business owners anxious about the fate of their properties.
Store owners were allowed access to the city in an effort to assess and document damages to their businesses and begin the restoration process.
Among those present was Sherman Baldwin, owner of Paradise Boat Tours, who commented on what the effects of Hurricane Helene would have on the local workforce.
“Honestly, my biggest concern is for the many staff on Bridge Street who won’t have paychecks,” Baldwin told The Islander Sept. 29 during the inspection. “I employ 11 people on Bridge Street, and I’m sick about them not having a paycheck soon.”
BSMA President Derek Williams, who owns the Drift-In AMI at 120 Bridge St., also spoke to The Islander in a Sept. 29 interview.
He said water had been the biggest issue for most properties.
“We did get a lot of water out here. Most of them look like we had three to four feet in the businesses,” he said.
“The merchants have come together and organized so we can work with officials in an organized fashion,” Williams said. “It’s very limited, what we can do, but we are assessing things right now, day by day.”
He said one of the things the merchants needed most was power, to aid in cleanups.
Williams said the merchants would be allowed on the island from 7 a.m. – 7p.m. each day in accordance with the city’s curfew.
“We are organizing to make sure we can get things moved off safely and start cleaning our businesses and the Bridge Street Merchants Association is putting together some resources so we can all communicate clearly when it comes to resources for employees, for
Bradenton Beach Police Officer John tsakari lines up Sept. 29 to escort a convoy of Bradenton Beach business owners from Bradenton to Bradenton Beach. Bridge Street merchants were allowed an opportunity to survey damage to their businesses despite the city being closed to the public following Hurricane Helene. Islander Photo: Robert Anderson
Please note: the Islander office at 315 58th St., Holmes Beach, is closed due to flooding and damages from Helene. You can call out office phone, 941-778-7978 during business hours or my cell phone, 941-730-2606, to reach me directly. You may still make drop-offs of information or football entries through the door slot. And you can pick up the current edition from the rack by the door. — Bonner Joy, publisher
businesses.”
Williams estimated that more than 500 people are employed on Bridge Street.
“Theres a lot of confusion amongst them,” Williams said. “If they don’t have a job to go to, they don’t have a paycheck.”
“I am sure there are resources, both state and federal, that might be able to help us,” Williams said. “That’s why we want to come together with one unified voice.”
“We are organizing in a way that hopefully will give our people some clear direction,” he said. “Today was just our first chance to drive out and pout our eyes on it. It’s gut wrenching.”
The City of Bradenton Beach has issued a boil water notice following Hurricane Helene, advising residents to boil tap water for one minute or use bottled water. Florida Power & Light as of Sept. 30 has restored power to some homes in the north of the city, but caution is urged due to potential electrocution risks. Re-entry to the city via Cortez Bridge was restricted to foot traffic for residents, business owners and insurance personnel starting Oct. 1, with identification required.
