The Islander Newspaper E-Edition: Wednesday, July. 10, 2024 by The Anna Maria Islander Newspaper

Red, white, blue and hot

and

city Pier, 100 n. Bay Blvd. islander Photos: robert anderson

addy Sulzberger, right, 15, sister Shaylei, 13, mia Walker, 12 and sister emerson, 7, fire off their water guns during the anna maria island Privateers fourth of July Parade and Water fight. more photos, page 12.

Week 1: At the golden hour

Bill Shafer of anna maria wins the first week of the islander’s 2024 top notch photo contest with this sunset photograph, shot July 1 from the rod & reel Pier in anna maria looking toward Bean Point. the photographer wins an islander “more-than-a-mullet wrapper” t-shirt and entry into the finals, which offers a grand prize of $100 from the islander and gift certificates from islander advertisers. there are five weekly winners to come. Please, review entry requirements, page 12, and at islander.org.

Cortez captains demand action on bay hazards

By robert anderson islander reporter

Commercial captains in the Cortez area are calling for state agencies to address a growing issue of derelict and at-risk vessels that pose hazards in Sarasota Bay. the waters surrounding the fishing village of Cortez have become littered with abandoned, derelict and sunken vessels, creating hazardous conditions for navigation, the captains said.

Despite efforts to engage state authorities such as the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, the guide captains said their concerns have been met with insufficient action.

Guides Katie Tupin of Capt. Katie Scarlett Boat Tours, Kathe Fannon of Capt. Kathe & First-Mate Pup-Pup Charters and Scott Moore of Moore Fishing Charters out of Holmes Beach have been working to educate people on the number of improperly anchored and sunken vessels in bay waters.

Tupin spoke to The Islander July 2 about problems boaters face.

“A lot of the ones that have been there for a couple of years are breaking apart,” Tupin said. “there’s garbage floating everywhere. It’s endangering people, boaters, renters and sea life and there are more boats that have been out there for a while that are getting ready to sink.”

Tupin expressed frustration over a lack of urgency on the state government’s part in response to environmental and public safety threats.

“None of the boats have been removed. So it’s just as bad as it was,” Tupin said. “I’ve not even seen an FWC boat since they sent someone from St. Pete last month to help with a manatee rescue.”

Tupin estimated that between Cortez and Longboat Pass there are 10-12 sunken or derelict vessels requiring removal.

Moore underscored the importance of

Don’t miss this contest

Do your photos get lots of love on Instagram? Do you get praised for your eye on TikTok or Facebook?

See how you fare in The Islander’s Top Notch photo contest, a summertime tradition with six weekly winners and a grand-prize award for the best photo entry, as well as props and prizes for pet pix.

We have some rules and guidelines. See details online and on page 12. Send entries to topnotch@islander.org.

With water cannons blazing in the summer heat, anna maria island Privateers pilot their ﬂagship Skullywag up marina drive in Holmes Beach during the annual fourth of July Parade

Water fight. the parade began at about 10 a.m. July 4 at coquina Beach and traversed the length of anna maria island, south to north, ending at the anna maria

distinguishing responsible boat owners from those whose vessels pose risk.

“I am not against people living on vessels,” Moore told The Islander July 3. “What I am concerned with are people living on vessels on tidal flats that disrupt the bottom.”

He said the state should implement a policy to determine the minimum depth for a vessel to anchor for long periods to prevent seagrass scouring by boats that come to rest on the bottom during low tides.

He also said vessel owners should not beach boats on mangrove shorelines, particularly those that serve as rookeries for bird populations.

Business operator Karen Bell, who owns Star Fish Co. and A.P. Bell Fish Co. in Cortez, said captains who come to and from the docks must navigate many anchor lines and sunken vessels.

She called for a quicker turnaround on removals.

“It doesn’t seem like they are making any progress,” Bell said July 2, referring to the state removal program. “I don’t know if something happened because it’s been about a year. We should be seeing more stuff moving out of there.”

Bell said she intended to continue to reach out to the FWC for answers.

She said she and others in the community had been trying to maintain a dialogue with the FWC and Manatee County about policing at-risk vessels and the removal of derelict boats.

However, she said, efforts to engage authorities for quicker responses have had mixed success.

About derelict vessels

a derelict vessel is defined as one that is wrecked, junked or in substantially dismantled condition in any waters of the state.

A vessel is “at risk” of becoming derelict if it is taking on or has taken on water without an effective means to dewater and lacks adequate waterproof hatches to seal the vessel from the elements.

Florida statutes make it unlawful for any person or

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A lot of the ones that have been there for a couple of years are breaking apart. There’s garbage floating everywhere. It’s endangering people and sea life.

’

— capt. Katie tupin

entity to abandon any derelict vessel in state waters.

The FWC works with municipal governments to have vessels removed from state waters through its derelict vessel grant program, which provides local governments reimbursement for removals.

The FWC also implements a vessel turn-in program to help owners dispose of unwanted at-risk vessels before they become derelict.

Since the inception of the program in 2022, the FWC has received more than 186 applications from at-risk vessels owners, according to a June 17 FWC news release.

u pon approval of an application, the state can accept a surrendered vessel and dispose of it at no cost to the owner.

Removing a vessel before it deteriorates prevents legal ramifications for the owner, protects natural resources and saves taxpayer money, the release states.

The FWC estimates cost to remove a vessel range $400-$800 per foot, factoring size and location.

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derelict and sunken vessels July 3 await removal from the intracoastal Waterway in Sarasota Bay. islander Photo: robert anderson

a vessel June 23 is aground on a shallow mangrove shoreline across from the Star fish co. dock, 12306 46th ave. W., cortez. islander Photo: courtesy capt. Scott moore

The Islander reached out to the FWC for comment by email July 1 but, as of Islander press time July 8, there was no response.

For more information on the FWC’s vessel turn in program call 850-488-5600 or go online to myfwc. com/boating/waterway/vtip/.

To report a derelict vessel, call Manatee County Marine Resources at 941-748-4501 or call the FWC at 888-404-3922.

People can track derelict vessels in their area online at https://gis.myfwc.com/derelictvessel/.

a family affair

the 28th annual Busciglio family and friends Pyramid is the kid-cousins edition. the fifth generation youngsters range in age from 11 months to 16 years, all from the extended Busciglio, Sheridan, díaz, Bryant, Waygood, Smith, Payne, Porter and testa island families. the inset photo is eli Payne, 11 months, who was napping during the shoot. the tradition for a family pyramid started years ago, including publication in the islander newspaper 28 years ago. islander Photo: dina Busciglio Sheridan

Warning: High heat continues in Manatee County

The week of July 8-14 started with a heat advisory for Manatee County, another in a series of advisories from the National Weather Service that began July 4.

The NWS also issued advisories for surrounding counties, warning of high temperatures noon-6 p.m. for five days in a row and encouraging people to limit outdoor activity as much as possible.

The advisories warned of heat indexes up to 111 degrees and said hot temps and high humidity can cause illness.

“drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room, stay out of the sun and check up on relatives and neighbors,” the advisory cautioned.

“Take extra precautions if you work or spend time outside. When possible reschedule strenuous activities to early morning or evening. Know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke.”

People in Manatee can sign up for alerts and news flashes at www.mymanatee.org.

— lisa neff

2 cardiac incidents reported over 4th at beach in BB Emergency services July 5 responded to two cardiac incidents minutes apart at beaches in Bradenton Beach.

The incidents occurred south of tower 11 at Coquina Beach and on the beach across from 11th Street North.

Beachgoers made calls to 911 and Bradenton Beach police, the manatee county sheriff’s Office and emergency medical services responded to both scenes.

Both patients were transported by EMS to HCA Florida Blake Hospital in Bradenton.

According to Bradenton Beach Lt. Lenard Diaz, one person died after admission to the hospital, while the other remained hospitalized in the intensive care unit.

The names of the people were not released. they were identified as Florida residents. — robert anderson

Q&A 071024

The Islander poll

Last week’s question

Shark Week began July 7 …

By lisa neff

30%. Always look forward to it.

10%. Just watch “Jaws.”

8%. Don’t have cable.

52%. Get out and see them in nature. This week’s question

i get serious about hurricane season when …

A. June 1 arrives.

B. When the first storm forms.

C. When a storm threatens.

D. Don’t get serious about it.

To answer the poll, go online to islander.org.

Digging into Holmes Beach election campaign funding

By ryan Paice islander reporter

Fundraising for Holmes Beach political candidates is ramping up.

With less than four months to go before the Nov. 5 general election, three candidates have raised more than $1,000 in campaign contributions — including both mayoral candidates.

more, respectively, as well as a $1,000 check from Tampa businessman James Hugs.

Other contributions include $214.83 to himself, $50 from both Marjorie and Richard Motzer, as well as $20 from Clearwater resident Randy Kane.

Roth also reported $377.06 in total expenditures, including the costs of checks, door hangers and a website.

Commission candidates

The third candidate with more than $1,000 in reported campaign contributions is Carol Whitmore, a former city commissioner and mayor, as well as a former county commissioner.

This year’s competition for the mayor’s seat includes two candidates: incumbent Mayor Judy Titsworth and political newcomer Michael “Mike” Ross. Titsworth — granddaughter of the city’s namesake John Holmes Sr. — first served as a commissioner and was elected mayor in 2018. She was reelected without opposition in 2020 and 2022.

Roth spent 34 years in continuous active service in the u s army and the Florida Army National Guard. He currently works as the West Florida area executive and corporate group manager for City National Bank.

Roth got off to a quick start fundraising, with all $2,834.83 of his reported campaign contributions in the April 1-May 31 reporting period.

The bulk of his contributions came from three donors, including $1,000 and $500 checks from Holmes Beach residents John Reed and Thomas Rush-

However, Roth reported no contributions, in-kind or otherwise, nor expenditures for June 1-14.

A report for June 15-28 was due to the Manatee County Supervisor of Elections Office by July 5 but was not available on the SEO’s website, votemanatee.com, as of July 6.

On the other hand, Titsworth may have gotten off to a slower start but she lapped Roth in funding in her P2 report.

Through P1, Titsworth had only reported a $1,000 contribution to herself and $284.60 in expenditures, including her $281.60 qualifying fee and $3 for temporary checks.

In P2, Titsworth received $4,150 in additional campaign contributions and racked up $1,133.85 in new expenditures.

Most of the new campaign contributions came from three $1,000 checks from three businesses, all owned by Bradenton Beach resident Jacob Spooner, a former Bradenton Beach commissioner.

Those businesses include the Island Bazaar Inc., 3304 E. Bay Drive, Holmes Beach; the Bridge Street Bazaar, 107 Bridge st. unit a, Bradenton Beach; and the Fish Hole, 115 Bridge St., Bradenton Beach.

The remaining $1,150 in P2 contributions were from five other checks.

The largest is a $500 check from brother-in-law William Bystrom, who owns the Island Animal Clinic, 5343 Gulf Drive, Suite 900; followed by a $300 check from City Commissioner Pat Morton; then a $200 check from Kentucky resident Diane Madsen.

Rounding out the contributions is $100 from John Rigney, another brother-in-law, whose personal information was exempt from public disclosure, and $50 from Holmes Beach resident Glenn Hall.

For P2 expenditures, Titsworth reported a $1,090.44 cost for political signs and $43.41 to create a website.

The next reporting period will be P3, which covers June 29-July 12 and has a July 19 deadline for filing financial reports.

Sizzling holiday sunset

the sunset view July 4 looking across anna maria Sound to anna maria island from the compass Hotel by margaritaville on Perico island and Safe Harbor Pier 77 marina. islander Photo: Bonner Joy

Whitmore reported $1,200 in contributions to herself in P1 and followed that up with $2,055.80 in P2 contributions.

Those contributions consisted of nine donors, headlined by a $1,000 check from Palmetto resident Daniel McClure, who owns McClure Holdings and West Coast Tomato.

Whitmore also reported $250 from Anna Maria resident Darcie Duncan, owner of Duncan Real Estate; $200 from former Manatee County administrator Cheri Coryea; and $200 from Robert Carter, a former Anna Maria resident and chairman of Sarasota-based Carter, a consulting business.

Other contributions include $100 from Bradenton resident Tal Siddique, who is running as a Republican in the race for Manatee County’s Board of Commissioners District 3 seat; $100 from Holmes Beach resident Richard Motzer; and $100 from Bradenton resident Steve Eason.

Whitmore also leads the commission race in expenditures, reporting $819.56 through P2, including an $80.80 qualifying fee, $698.43 for political signs, as well as $40.33 in “fees” to New Orleans-based Anedot, a fundraising software company.

planning commissioner steve Oeflke has raised the second-most in contributions, but neither incumbent Commissioner Dan Diggins nor Clean Water Committee member Bill Romberger’s P2 reports were available on the SEO’s website as of July 6.

Oelfke had collected $703 in total contributions, including a $600 check to himself, a $3 in-kind contribution of cash to himself for campaign checks, as well as a $100 check from Commission Chair Terry Schaefer.

Romberger and Diggins trail the pack with $300 and $200 in total contributions, respectively, from loans to themselves.

Only Whitmore had reported more than $100 in campaign expenditures as of July 6, according to the SEO.

The four commission candidates will compete for two seats on the dais on the Nov. 5 municipal ballot. Holmes Beach mayors earn a $28,160 annual salary.

Commissioners receive an $8,080 annual salary. Both offices have two-year terms.

There were 2,436 registered voters in Holmes Beach as of July 5, according to the SEO.

Treehouse goodbyes

Holmes Beach resident Jenny myers stands July 5 at the base of a beachfront treehouse at the angelinos Sea lodge, 2818 ave. e, Holmes Beach. the treehouse is set for court-ordered demolition after more than a decade of litigation and property owners richard Hazen and lynn tran-Hazen were allowing people, including myers, onto the property to say goodbye to the structure. islander

Photo: courtesy Jenny myers

titsworth

diggins

oelfke

Whitmore

romberger

Fireﬁghters

train together firefighters from seven local districts stand together June 28 during multi-company training at West manatee fire rescue’s Station 2, 10350 cortez road W., Bradenton. training involved firefighters from Wmfr, Bradenton fire department, cedar Hammock, east manatee, north river and Southern manatee fire rescue districts.

Meetings

By lisa neff

ANNA MARIA CITY

July 18, 1 p.m., commission, budget.

July 18, 2 p.m., commission.

July 24, 9 a.m., planning and zoning.

July 25, 5 p.m., commission.

July 25, 6 p.m., commission.

10005 Gulf Drive, 941-708-6130, cityofannamaria.com.

BRADENTON BEACH

July 10, 9 a.m., commission, workshop.

July 16, commission, budget.

July 16, 10 a.m., CRA, budget.

July 17, 1 p.m., ScenicWAVES.

July 18, noon, commission.

107 Gulf Drive N., 941-778-1005, cityofbradentonbeach.com.

HOLMES BEACH

July 23, 2 p.m., commission, budget.

July 23, 2:30 p.m., commission.

firefighters perform drills June 28 to practice vertical ventilation, which allows super-heated toxic gases and smoke from a fire to escape a building through an opening in the roof.

July 24, 5 p.m., planning commission.

July 31, 10 a.m., special magistrate. 5801 Marina Drive, 941-708-5800, holmesbeachﬂ.org.

WEST MANATEE FIRE RESCUE

July 16, 6 p.m., commission. 701 63rd St. W., Bradenton, 941-761-1555, wmfr.org.

MANATEE COUNTY

July 30, 9 a.m., commission.

Aug. 1, 9 a.m., commission, budget. 1112 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton, 941-748-4501, mymanatee. org.

ALSO OF INTEREST

July 11, 9:30 a.m., ManaSota League of Cities, Longboat Key Town Hall, 501 Bay Isles Road, Longboat Key.

Sept. 2, Labor Day, most government ofﬁces will be closed. Please, send meeting notices to calendar@islander.org and news@islander.org.

Election 2024

Democratic club hosts candidates meeting

A Zoom-based meet-the-candidates event will be held starting at 11:30 a.m. Monday, July 15, according to a notice from the Anna Maria Island and West Manatee Democratic Club.

The event is expected to include remarks by Jan Schneider and Trent Miller, candidates in the Aug. 20 primary for the u.s. House seat held by republican Vern Buchanan.

Adriaan DeVilliers, a candidate in the general election for House District 71, held by Republican Will Robinson Jr., also is expected to attend, along with Diana Shoemaker, running in the general for the Manatee County District 3 commission seat held by Republican Kevin Van Ostenbridge, and Sari LindroosValimaki, running in the general for the District 7 seat held by George Kruse.

For more information, email Barbara Ehren at barbara.ehren@gmail.com or call the party headquarters at 941-301-4336.

Early voting begins Aug. 10

The Manatee County Supervisor of Elections will hold early voting hours for the Tuesday, Aug. 20, primary Saturday, Aug. 10-Saturday, Aug. 17.

Early voting will be daily 8:30 a.m.-6:30 p.m. at eight locations in the county.

The location nearest Anna Maria Island is G. T. Bray Park, 5502 33rd Ave. W., Bradenton.

Voters must present a valid photo and signature ID.

For more information, go to the SEO website at votemanatee.com.

On the calendar

• July 15, 11:30 a.m., anna maria island and West Manatee Democratic Club Meet the Candidates forum via Zoom.

• July 22, voter registration deadline for primary.

• tuesday, aug. 20, primary election.

• monday, Oct. 7, registration deadline for general election.

• tuesday, Nov. 5, general election.

— lisa neff

Check The Islander archives

Explore the entire archive of The Islander dating to November 1992 in the uofF Florida digital newspaper collection at ufdc. ufl.edu.

cedar Hammock training chief Billy Smith, left, directs a crew of longboat Key firefighters June 28 during multi-company training in Bradenton. islander Photos: courtesy Wmfr

An eye on the water

It’s not really a holiday but it is celebrated by folks who appreciate the many benefits, thrills, campy stories and the true stories about sharks.

I readily admit, sharks are scary to me. My limit in the Gulf and bay is ankle deep waters.

But when you say shark, right after “Jaws” and candygrams, my mind goes to Eugenie Clark.

In 1955, she opened a small marine laboratory, Cape Haze Marine Laboratory in Placida, that survived with the help of local fishers and generous donors.

The lab was later named the Mote Marine Laboratory and moved to Sarasota, where it grew, thanks to William “Bill” Mote and his contributions.

It is now a national center for shark and marine mammal research.

Clark was an explorer, marine biologist and teacher who became known worldwide as “The Shark Lady.”

she turned the opinion of fishers from fear, hate and despise for sharks as mindless killers, for which some species were at risk, into respect for their role in the ecosystem.

Many sharks are apex predators — residing at the top of the food web. They keep their prey in check and contribute to a healthy marine population by weeding out sick and weak animals.

According to conservation.org, some researchers have found shark tissue has anticoagulant and antibacterial properties and studies are ongoing for various medical conditions, including viruses and cystic fibrosis.

Clark taught us that “Even the tiniest creature on Earth has a purpose. There is no such thing as an insignificant life.”

Sharks also contribute to a thriving ecotourism industry — think fishing for big game and diving for thrills — although it seems most people who like to fish here want to take home dinner.

There is a growing number of people who hunt shark and other wildlife with cameras, like our photographer, Jacob merrifield, who spends many early mornings at Bean point flying a drone over the water with a bird’s eye view for his camera lense, searching for marine life. His collection of photos can be found on Facebook at Wildscape Bradenton.

And sharks in nature are far more intriguing than the mechanical sharks in “Jaws.”

If you have access to the Discovery Channel on cable TV, you can learn about sharks during Shark Week, and you, too, may gain respect for the predators in our backyard.

Be sure to catch the “breach” competition. — Bonner Joy, news@islander.org

Treehouse to be toppled

The Islander’s readers shared their opinions — most of them strong — on social media about the news that demolition of the beachfront treehouse at Angelinos Sea Lodge in Holmes Beach seems imminent. Many of the 60-plus comments on the matter were by people who want the structure, built without a permit, to remain.

Skimming online

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JULY 10, 2024 • Vol. 32, No. 38

▼ 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

Islander readers said … So silly.

Dennis Chasse

Leave it be.

Judy loden Wasco

All others: news@islander.org

Vicki Hart

Booooo!! That’s such a bummer. The owners are good people and we got married there by that treehouse. Lots of memories there over the years growing up. What a shame.

Kasay Gunter

But what will we talk about?

Larry Sutow

The saga continues.

Marilia Stumpf Clark

This is so sad!!! That tree house has been part of my ami trips for YEARSSSS.

Tara Louise

Aw! It’s such a fun and creative structure. Too bad it can’t be left as a space for use by the property owners and their family only.

Joe Zukauskas

Leave it alone. This whole story is old and ridicu-

Your opinion

We welcome your opinion — letters to the editor. Submit them along with a name, city of residence and phone number to news@islander. org. Only your name and city are published.

lous at this point.

Kimberly Starr Rickards

Finally! Lesson: FOLLOW THE LAW!

Helken Pasakarnis

Glad they’re FINALLY being held accountable for breaking the zoning laws. This will discourage others from stealing our precious public beach property and building un-permitted structures.

Marlane Kraemer Wurzbach

Hey, you should get (Shawn) Kaleta to submit the (building) permit, I’m sure it would pass.

Karen Dupree

News your way …

Website: islander.org

Facebook: islandernewspaper

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On the links

aBoVe: golfers play a round on a longboat Key course in January 1979. today, longboat Key has five courses — one public and four private courses, according to golﬂink. com. left: lPga golfer Kathy mcmullen, formerly from Homes Beach, circa 1978. mcmullen was the lPga’s rookie of the year in 1970. islander Photos: courtesy manatee county Public library System

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the Key royale golf club’s fairways can be seen from ivanhoe lane on Key royale in Holmes Beach. the information on the photo, dated 1982, reads, “Palms and australian pines landscape the executive course.

10, 20, 30 years ago

From the July 7, 1994, issue

• island assessed property value increased $21 million from 1993 to 1994, with the total assessed property value on the island at $808,842,722.

• anna maria commissioners voted against vacating an alley, as requested by the Sandbar Restaurant. There was a standing-room only crowd for the vote.

From the July 7, 2004, issue

• the anna maria island chamber of commerce reported an explosion in business for the July 4 weekend, with sellouts in accommodations and business owners reporting terrific crowds.

• Bradenton Beach held a public hearing on a proposed charter amendment to establish a city manager form of government and there was no public comment.

• law enforcement officers confiscated fireworks up and down the beaches but did not issue citations for possession. The island saw two permitted fireworks shows for the July 4 holiday weekend.

From the July 9, 2014, issue

• Bradenton Beach’s pro tem clerk tammy Johnson resigned, prompted by allegations from city attorney Ricinda Perry that Johnson violated public records laws.

• an attorney representing Elra inc., the corporate entity for the BeachHouse Restaurant, lodged a complaint alleging Bradenton Beach Mayor Bill Shearon and his partner Tjet Martin were operating a vacation resort without proper licensing.

— lisa neff

the anna maria island Privateers want you! the pirates are looking for new blood to join them in their pursuit of good deeds for kids and community. call maryann “maz” Zala at 941 650-8673 or Valerie “dallas” mabry, 941 896-0797.

ad sponsor: Xmas in July info: lil’ John arr, 941-779-6033.

left: Holmes Beach resident Paula Henke dumps a bucket of trash she collected July 5 while walking the beach for the city of Holmes Beach’s post-July 4 co-op cleanup efforts with Keep manatee Beautiful and Waste Pro. rigHt: city code compliance officer nate Brown, right, drives beach cleanup volunteers July 5 to various spots to pick up litter left behind during the July fourth holiday celebrations.

Canines train to assist on Gulf Islands Ferry rides

aBoVe: dogs inc. instructor lynn Benus steps July 2 onto a gulf islands ferry with marcel, a guide/service dog in training at the anna maria city Pier.

toP left: dogs inc. instructors line up with guide dogs in training July 2 to reboard one of the gulf islands ferry vessels at the anna maria city Pier’s dock. manatee county’s ferry operates WednesdaySunday between the Bradenton riverfront and anna maria island, with island stops at the city Pier in anna maria and the Historic Bridge Street Pier in Bradenton Beach. islander Photos: ryan Paice

Sharks cue up for Shark Week

drone operator/photographer Jacob merrifield finds an abundance of marine life

June 9 while “hunting” at Bean Point, where a shiver of sharks — blacktips, bulls and lemons — swirl in the shallow waters. merrifield shares his bounty of photos and videos on facebook at Wildscapes Photography, Bradenton. Shark Week started July 7 on the discovery channel.

Holmes Beach city officials and staff, along with Keep manatee Beautiful and Waste Pro representatives, smile in the shade of a tent July 5 near the 52nd Street beach access, which served as the base for beach cleanup efforts following independence day. islander Photos: ryan Paice

About the ferry

manatee county operates the gulf islands ferry service Wednesday-Sunday between Bradenton and anna maria island, with stops on the Bradenton riverfront downtown, at the anna maria city Pier in anna maria and the Historic Bridge Street Pier in Bradenton Beach.

the first trip from downtown Bradenton is at 10 a.m.

the last trip from ami to Bradenton is at 9:30 p.m. from Bradenton Beach.

advance online ticketing is recommended. one-way tickets are $6 for adults, $4 for seniors, youth and military personnel and can be purchased at www.gulfcoastwatertaxi.com. children 3 and under ride for free.

Walk-ons can board the ferry at any location if the boat is not fully reserved. for other information, call 941-357-2587. — lisa neff

May bed tax tops 2023 number, continues climb

By lisa neff islander editor

Manatee County pulled in $2,179,776 in “bed tax” revenue in May — a record for the month.

the may 2024 figure topped last year’s recordsetting May by 8.7%.

May collections actually have been marching upward after the first year of the pandemic in 2020, when the dollars plummeted by half from May 2019’s $1,093,870.

The resort tax, bed tax or tourist development tax is a 5% levy on accommodations of six months or less.

The county has grossed $21,743,113 in tax revenue from October 2023 to May 31.

The step-back picture for 2023-24 is that the tourist development tax revenues have been inconsistent, with some months up and some down based on data released July 2 by the Manatee County Tax Collector’s Office.

October, November, December, January and April were down in tax collections compared to the same months in 2022-23, while February, March and May were up.

unincorporated manatee county was the highest-grossing region in May, bringing in $779,195 or 35.48% of the total.

Holmes Beach brought in $600,168 or 27.65%.

Anna Maria grossed $318,188 or 14.66% and Bradenton Beach accommodations generated $112,803 or 5.2%.

More May statistics:

• longboat Key generated $188,983 or 8.71%;

• Bradenton generated $175,410 or 8.08%;

• palmetto generated $5,127 or 0.24%.

The tax collector receives a 3% administrative fee, putting the county’s net revenue for May at $2,105,747.

The Manatee County Tourist Development Council advises the county commission on how to spend

the tax revenue, which by law must go to bolstering tourism.

TDT money supports the Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau and also goes to the Bradenton Area Convention Center, Realize Bradenton and the Pittsburgh Pirates.

TDT money also is used to renourish beaches, as well as special projects, including the ferry service between the island and downtown Bradenton.

June data will be released in early August.

The next TDC meeting will be at 9:30 a.m. Monday, Aug. 19, at the Center of Anna Maria Island, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria.

Top month in 2023-24

The tourist development tax collections from

march were the highest to date for the fiscal year that ends Sept. 30. Revenues for the month, which included spring break and Easter week, were $5,303,173.

tourist tax collections may 2020: $558,014 may 2021: $1,981,649 may 2022: $1,990,641 may 2023: $1,997,077 may 2024: $2,179,776

Source: manatee county tax collector

Angling in Anna Maria

Susan mahabir smiles July 2 while showing off a fish she caught from the walkway of the anna maria city Pier during a “daycation” trip to anna maria island from mascotte, a small city in lake county that is about 33 miles west of orlando. the pier was reconstructed with the help of tourist tax dollars. islander Photo: ryan Paice

Milestones

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

Submit your announcements and photographs with captions for publication — along with contact information — to news@islander.org.

Also, visit us on Facebook and join the 21,000plus friends who “like” The Islander and share their social news.

compiled by lisa neff, calendar@islander.org

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT ON AMI

Monday, July 15

2 p.m. — Digital Sketchbook Studio, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341.

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 July, Artists’ Guild Gallery window show featuring 50 area artists, 5414 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-7786694.

• Throughout July, Island Gallery and Studios “Color and Texture” by Jim Wheeler, 456 Old Main St., Bradenton. Information: 941-7786648.

• Through Aug. 15, “To the Moon: Snoopy Soars with NASA,” the Bishop Museum of Science and Nature, 201 10th St. W., Bradenton. Fee applies. Information: 941-746-4131.

• Through Aug. 16, Ringling College of Art and Design Galleries “Jack Dowd: Last Call” installation, 2700 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. Information: 941-359-7563.

• Through Aug. 31, Thursday-Saturday, 7 p.m., 9 p.m., Laser Light Nights, the Bishop Museum of Science and Nature, 201 10th St. W., Bradenton. Fee applies. Information: 941-746-4131.

• Through August, by appointment, Cortez Cultural Center Museum, 11655 Cortez Road W., Cortez. Information: 941-8400590, cvhs2016@aol.com.

• 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.

SAVE THE DATES

July 20-Sept. 15, Selby Gardens’ “The Florida Highway Men: Interstate Connections,” Sarasota.

Sept. 19-29, Island Players’ “Crimes of the Heart,” Anna Maria.

Oct. 8, Manatee Performing Arts Center’s Tribute Tuesday concert series begins, Bradenton.

Artist Day arrives at park

The Manatee County Natural Resources Department will host Artist Day at Robinson Preserve 8 a.m.-noon Friday, July 12.

People are encouraged to bring sketchbooks, cameras, painting canvas and journals to the northwest Bradenton preserve, find their “best spot” for taking in the scenery and create their art.

The county is presenting the program in partnership with the Conservation Foundation of the Gulf Coast.

Participants will meet at the preserve’s north entrance, 1704 99th St. NW, Bradenton, Bradenton.

To register, go online to conservationfoundation.com.

For more information about Manatee County preserve events and amenities, call 941-7425923.

Oct. 19, Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce’s Bayfest, Anna Maria.

Nov. 14-24, Island Players’ “A Doublewide, Texas Christmas,” Anna Maria.

MARKETS & SALES

ONGOING OFF AMI

• Second Saturdays through Aug. 10, 8 a.m.-noon, Summer Mini-Markets, Old Main Street, Bradenton. Information: realizebradenton.com, 941-301-8445.

SAVE THE DATES

July 18, Bridge Street Merchants’ Sun Down Get Down, Bradenton Beach.

KIDS & FAMILY ON

AMI

Thursday, July 11

10 a.m. — Sword Fighting for History, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341.

Friday, July 12

10 a.m. — Forty Carrots, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341.

Tuesday, July 16

10 a.m. — Family storytime, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341.

ONGOING OFF AMI

• 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

CLUBS & COMMUNITY

Wednesday, July 10

10 a.m.-4 p.m. — Blood drive, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341.

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

Thursday, July 11

1 p.m. — Sunshine Stitchers, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341.

Saturday, July 13

8:30 a.m. — Kiwanis Club of Anna Maria Island meeting, Bradenton Beach City Hall, 107 Gulf Drive N. Information: 941-7781383.

10 a.m.-noon — Paws and Pages: Dog Adoption Event, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-7786341.

3-7 p.m. — Rise up for River medical care beneﬁt, Center of Anna Maria Island, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria. Information: 941-720-0418.

ONGOING ON AMI

• Second Mondays, 2 p.m., Center of Anna Maria Island Adult Book Club, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria. Information: 941-7781908.

ONGOING OFF AMI

• Throughout July 21, Sarasota Bay Estuary Program Eyes on Seagrass monitoring, Sarasota Bay.

SAVE THE DATES

July 20, Anna Maria Island Privateers Christmas in July party, Bradenton Beach.

LESSONS

LEARNING

ON AMI

Tuesday, July 16

3 p.m. — WWII on AMI, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341.

Wednesday, July 17

2 p.m. — Sharks and Rays Conservation Research, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-7786341.

ONGOING ON AMI

• Tuesdays through August, 10 a.m., Anna Maria Island and Shorebird Monitoring Turtle Tracks and Shorebird Facts, Holmes Beach City Hall, 5801 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: islandturtlewatch.com, info@islandturtlewatch.com, 941-3018434.

PleaSe, See CaLENdar, Page 11

Send listings to calendar@islander.org

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.

• Most Tuesdays, 11:30 a.m., mahjong club, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341.

ONGOING OFF AMI

• Through Sept. 1, Bradenton Marauders home games, LECOM Park, 1611 Ninth St. W., Bradenton. Fee apples. Information: 941-7473031.

OUTDOORS & NATURE

Thursday, July 11

9 a.m. — Seashell Shore Walk, Coquina Beach, Bradenton Beach. Information: 941-748-4501.

Friday, July 12

8 a.m.-noon — Artist Day at Robinson, Robinson Preserve, 1704 99th St. NW, Bradenton. Information: conservationfoundation. org, 941-742-5923.

10 a.m.— Escape the NEST, Robinson Preserve, 10299 Ninth Ave. NW, Bradenton. Information: 941-742-5923, mymanatee.org.

Sunday, July 14

10 a.m. — Fishing clinic, De Soto National Memorial, 8300 Desoto Memorial Highway, Bradenton. Tickets: recreation.gov. Other Information: 941-792-0458.

• Saturdays, 9 a.m., Mornings at the NEST, Robinson Preserve, 10299 Ninth Ave. NW, Bradenton. Information: 941-742-5923, mymanatee.org.

Through Oct. 31, sea turtle nesting season. Lights out! Through Nov. 30, Atlantic hurricane season. Be prepared! Aug. 26, Women’s Equality Day. Aug. 30, Jimmy Buffett Day.

Send listings to calendar@islander.org.

“Anna Maria Island,” a pictorial history book of the island by Bonner Joy, is available for $20 at the islander office, 315 58th St., Holmes Beach. call or text 941-778-7978 for hours or purchase at islander.org. Joy is publisher of the islander.

Island happenings

Bridge Street Merchants ready for street parties

The Bridge Street Merchants will host a series of street parties beginning Thursday, July 18, with the Retro Beach Party on Bridge Street.

Bridge Street will close to vehicular traffic so people can “sip, shop, stroll, dine and discover” the offerings in Bradenton Beach’s commercial district.

The event will begin at 4 p.m.

Other Sundown Get Down dates include:

• thursday, aug. 15, pirate powerboat plunder;

• thursday, sept. 19, under the sea Back to school Bash;

• thursday, Oct. 17, pumpkins and palms in para-

Shell collectors to stroll shore

The Manatee County Natural Resources Department will host a Seashell Shore Walk at 9 a.m. Thursday, July 11, at Coquina Beach in Bradenton Beach near Longboat Pass.

A notice from the county invited people to join “a relaxing walk on the beach to search for seashells and learn to identify them.”

Participants also will learn about ethical seashellcollecting methods.

Reservations are required.

For reservations, email Elena Burke at elena. burke@mymanatee.org.

For more information, call Burke at 941-742-5923, ext. 6036.

dise;

• thursday, Nov. 21, coastal Harvest Hoedown;

• thursday, dec. 19, sandy clause Beach celebration.

The event is supported by the Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau.

Partygoers are encouraged to take public transportation, including the island trolley and the Gulf Islands Ferry to the events.

For more information, go online to the the merchants’ sundowngetdown.com site or call 941-7789088.

Escape the NEST event set

Game enthusiasts are invited to Manatee County’s Robinson Preserve July 12 for an Escape the NEST adventure.

The there will be two hourlong Friday programs — 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. — during which participants will collect clues and solve puzzles to escape the NEST.

The scenario involves people being trapped in a bird research facility during a hurricane.

The NEST is at 10299 Ninth Ave. NW, Bradenton.

For reservations, go to parks.mymanatee.org.

For more information about county natural resource department programs and amenities, call 941742-5923.

Privateers to celebrate Christmas in July on Bridge Street

Now Dasher, now Dancer, now Prancer, now Skullywag!

The Anna Maria Island Privateers will cruise to Bradenton Beach’s Drift-In AMI Saturday, July 20, to celebrate Christmas in July with Santa. the nonprofit dedicated to “kids and community” will host its annual midsummer celebration beginning at 6 p.m. at the bar, 120 Bridge St.

A public invitation on Facebook said, “Come out and celebrate Christmas in July by eating, drinking and being merry with Santa and his Privateer helpers.”

plans include raffles, lottery and an appetizer buffet served by local restaurants.

Money will go to support the Anna Maria Island Privateers’ work for kids and community.

Islanders, at one time, celebrated Christmas in July in a big way — with parties and decorations and a New Year’s Eve event. The Privateers work to carry on the tradition.

For more information, call the bar at 941-7789088.

Santa, aKa greg mccoy of Bradenton Beach, cools off with a fan July 22, 2023, during the anna maria island Privateers christmas in July party at the drift-in ami in Bradenton Beach. islander file

Photo: robert anderson

amelia rolon, 6, of georgia, is ready to celebrate independence day on anna maria island as the anna maria island Privateers fourth of July Parade and Water fight rolls by in the background.

islander

Photo: robert anderson

not all entries in the anna maria island Privateers fourth of July Parade and Water fight are motorized ﬂoats. one rider pedaled his way into Holmes Beach on a holiday-themed bicycle.

The July 4 holiday begins on Anna Maria Island!

a clearwater counterpart to the anna maria island Privateers, ye mystic Krewe of the Santa margarita, pilot their namesake ship up marina drive in Holmes Beach in the anna maria island Privateers fourth of July Parade and Water fight. the group’s mission is centered around charitable sponsorship and community service, like the Privateers. islander Photo: robert anderson

left: Shauna carver of massapequa, new york, scores a 2023 top notch win with this photograph from Bayfront Park in anna maria. middle: cece rulon’s energetic selfie-plus one is a winning image from 2015. rigHt: in the first week of the 2015 top notch contest, Kyle feehan of Holmes Beach captured the judges’ attention and a win. islander Photos

The Islander’s Top Notch photo contest continues, next deadline July 12

The Islander’s Top Notch contest continues.

The contest celebrates what still is known to some as the “Kodak moment,” despite Kodak’s downfall in the switch from film to digital technology.

The contest includes six weekly front-page winners. Each will claim an Islander “More than a mullet wrapper” T-shirt.

One weekly shot will take the grand prize in the contest, earning the photographer a $100 prize from the islander and certificates from local merchants.

Top Notch

There also is a pet photo contest with a winner announced in the final week. Look online this week for complete rules and

details.

Please, note, each original JPG must be included in a single email with the name of the photographer, date the photo was taken, location and description, names of recognizable people and the address and phone number of the photographer.

All rules at islander.org must be observed. Now, review your photos and send entries to topnotch@islander.org.

Bonner Joy

the nathan Benderson Park Veterans dragon Boat crew shows patriotism during the anna maria island Privateers fourth of July Parade. the crew, made up of armed forces veterans, belongs to a competitive boat paddling club. islander Photo: robert anderson

the anna maria island Privateers make their way up gulf drive toward the roundabout in Bradenton Beach on their south-to-north push past celebrants along the path to anna maria — an annual fourth of July tradition. islander Photo: Jacob merrifield

King, Manatee get summer face lift from Guy Harvey

a guy Harvey mural June 25 awaits diners in the cafeteria at manatee High School, 902 33rd St. court W., Bradenton. islander

Photos: courtesy School district of manatee county

rigHt: a guy Harvey mural awaits students in the cafeteria at King middle School. far rigHt: King middle School principal michael mullen poses June 25 at an elevator tower where a guy Harvey mural was installed on the school campus, 600 75th St. nW, Bradenton.

Two mainland schools are getting a deep-sea look similar to Anna Maria Elementary School.

The Manatee County School District has partnered with the Guy Harvey Foundation to create a marine science learning path from Anna Maria Elementary, 4700 Gulf drive, Holmes Beach, the district’s first Guy Harvey Academy, to King Middle and Manatee High schools.

As part of the academy expansion, murals were installed on the campuses at both King and Manatee. King, 600 75th St. NW, Bradenton, has murals on office windows, a cafeteria entrance and an elevator tower in the two-story classroom building.

At Manatee, 902 33rd St. Court W., Bradenton, murals are on the cafeteria doors and windows.

The projects took a week to complete.

For more information, contact the district at 941708-8770 or go online to manateeschools.net.

— robyn murrell

FISH dips into summer projects, payments, vagrancy problems, upkeep

By robert anderson islander reporter

FISH is dipping into its midsummer plans.

Board members of the Florida Institute for Saltwater Heritage gathered at Fishermen’s Hall July 1 for a monthly meeting, setting their goals for a variety of summer projects.

FISH treasurer Jane von Hahmann said the group deposited nearly $20,000 from a Sarasota-Manatee community-based Giving Challenge, which occurred April 9-10, and board member Angela Collins suggested the group put $18,000 toward mortgage payments.

The Giving Challenge, hosted by the Community Foundation of Sarasota County in partnership with the Patterson Foundation, raised more than $17 million in 2024, providing a source of unrestricted funding for a number of nonprofits.

FISH vice president David Cadmus motioned to approve a mortgage payment which includes the Fishermen’s Hall building, 4515 124th Street W., Cortez, and a .504-acre section of the FISH Preserve acquired from Iris LeMasters in 2016.

The motion passed unanimously.

Von Hahmann said $68,250 remained on the loan, which would decrease to about $50,000 with the payment.

Fish member allen Garner confirmed his mid-July startup for improvements to the 95-acre FISH Preserve, 11655 Cortez Road W., Cortez.

In February, FISH secured a $165,000 grant from the Barancik Foundation of Sarasota to enhance public access to the property and the board hired Garner, a landscape architect, to complete the work.

The preserve spans 95 acres of undeveloped coastal habitat adjacent to the fishing village and serves as a

buffer to development and a sanctuary for marine life, as well as a protected public recreational area.

Board members also discussed signage strategies to curb trespassing and clutter at a FISH-administered community dock near the Star Fish Co. restaurant, 12306 46th Ave. W., Cortez.

Board member Karen Bell, who owns the restaurant, said the dock became untidy, with debris brought ashore by people living aboard vessels in the waters off Cortez.

She said vagrancy also is an issue.

FrEE ...

The Islander newspaper is FrEE at Publix Holmes Beach. Just stop by the customer service desk, hold out your hand and say, “Islander, please!” And maybe remind staff you’d like the serveyourself community news returned to the lobby.

florida institute for Saltwater Heritage board members discuss the nonprofit’s financials July 1, during a meeting at fishermen’s Hall, 4515 124th St. W., cortez. islander

Members debated options aimed at communicating boundaries while fostering community cooperation. The group agreed to have “no loitering’ signage added to the dock.

Meanwhile, with summer storms heating up, insurance issues were discussed by the board.

The FISH board noted improvements mandated by insurance providers to maintain the nonprofit’s policy on structures in the village.

Work is now scheduled for tree trimming and building upkeep, including repairs to soffits and fascia.

Photo: robert anderson

Gathering

By lisa neff

Roser tees up for Golﬁng for God

Roser Memorial Community Church is registering participants for its summer “Golfing for God” series.

Golf outings will be at 2:45 p.m. Wednesday, July 17, as well as Aug. 7 and Sept. 18, at IMG Academy, 4350 El Conquistador Parkway, Bradenton, according to a notice on the church website.

After the sport, there’s Bible study and supper at 5:30 p.m.

For more information, including costs, go online to roserchurch.com or call the church office at 941778-0414.

Longboat Island Chapel stocking ‘community chest’

Longboat Island Chapel issued a call for toilet paper donations to fill a “community chest” and benefit stillpoint mission in Bradenton.

The church, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, will collect donations during its Gather and Give Social in the Shook Fellowship Hall 5-7 p.m. Tuesday, July 16.

Stillpoint is “dedicated to providing, food, diapers, clothing and utility bill assistance to those in need, according to the mission’s website at stillpointmission. org.

For more information, call the chapel at 941-3836491.

Christ Church book club releases reading list

The Christ Church of Longboat Key book club is on summer break but for readers who want to stay ahead, the fall-winter list is out.

The club will resume meeting monthly in October and books on the list include “The Personal History of Katharine Graham” by Graham, “Remarkably Bright Creatures” by Shelby Van Pelt, “The Last Train to Paradise” by Les Standiford and “The Complete Short Stories” by Ernest Hemingway.

The church is at 6400 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key.

For more information, call 941-383-8833.

Shoe drive kicks off

Gloria Dei Lutheran Church is collecting shoes to help outfit kids for the upcoming school year.

The mission of Project Heart is to provide Manatee County students living in housing transition with support to enroll, attend and succeed in school.

New shoes can be donated Sundays during worship and at the office 9 a.m.-noon monday-Wednesday.

The church is at 6608 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach.

A notice from the church read, “This collection of new shoes gives kids facing housing transition a chance to put a good foot forward in the upcoming 2024-25 school year.”

For more information about the drive, call the church office at 941-778-1813.

For more information about Project Heart, go online to manateeschools.net.

Tidings compiled by

lisa neff

Wednesday, July 10

1 p.m. — Roser Memorial Community Church Grief Share healing support, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Information: 941-7780414.

Tuesday, July 16

5-7 p.m. — Longboat Island Chapel Gather and Give Social, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key. Information: 941-3836491.

Wednesday, July 17

1 p.m. — Roser Memorial Community Church Grief Share healing support, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Information: 941-7780414.

2:45 p.m. — Roser Church Golﬁng for God, IMG Academy Golf Club, 4350 El Conquistador Parkway, Bradenton. Reservations required. Fee applies. Information: 941-778-0414.

SAVE THE DATES

July 18, Christ Church of Longboat Key lunch outing, Cortez. Aug. 7, Roser Church Golﬁng for God, Bradenton. Sept. 18, Roser Church Golﬁng for God, Bradenton. Oct. 23, Christ Church book club resumes, Longboat Key. Feb. 25-26, 2025, Christ Church of Longboat Key Men’s Retreat, TBD.

April 2-3, 2025, Christ Church of Longboat Key Women’s Retreat, TBD.

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, 6:30 p.m., Beach Night; 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.

Ongoing: Most Wednesdays, 8 a.m., men’s breakfast; Mon-

Obituary

James Michael ‘Mike’ LaPensee

James Michael “Mike” LaPensee, 79, of Anna Maria, died June 22.

He was born April 10, 1945, in Detroit to parents Wilfred and Edith (Glasgow) LaPensee. He spent his early childhood there before moving to Wayne, Michigan, where he attended St. Mary’s Catholic School and graduated Wayne High School in 1963.

He made the move to Florida in 1967 and settled on Anna Maria Island. In December 1976, he met the love of his life, Karen, and they married 90 days later in March 1977.

Mr. LaPensee was a master plumber and was well known in the business community for founding LaPensee Plumbing with Karen in 1985.

He was an active member of the island community, coaching his children’s sports teams at the community center in their younger years, supporting various events and fundraisers around the island and volunteering with the Rotary Club of Anna Maria Island, where he was a member.

He was known for striking up conversations with strangers wherever he went, always leaving them a friend. He was immensely proud of his family.

He loved trains, old cars and hobbies, including model airplanes, boats and cars.

Ser vice 10 : 00 AM Dr. Julia Wharff Piermont, Pastor

days, 1 p.m., book club.

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.

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.

ONGOING OFF AMI

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; 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.

Temple Beth Israel, 567 Bay Isles Road, Longboat Key. Info: 941-383-3428.

Worship: Fridays, Shabbat, 5:30 p.m.; Saturdays, 10 a.m.

GET LISTED, CHANGE LISTINGS

Summer scheduling? Please, send notices of changes to schedules for worship and other events during the summer to calendar@islander.org.

He was a loving husband, father and friend and he will be greatly missed.

A celebration of life will be 4:30-7:30 p.m. Sunday, July 14, at the Key Royale Club, 700 Key Royale Drive, Holmes Beach. Those who knew him are encouraged to drop in, have a rum and coke and share some memories. Brown & Sons Funeral Homes & Crematory 43rd Street Chapel is overseeing arrangements. Memorial donations may be made to the Center of Anna Maria Island or the Rotary Club of Anna Maria Island. Condolences may be made to brownandsonsfuneral.com

Mr. LaPensee is survived by his wife, J. Karen; son Michael J.; daughters Michele and husband Jereme Crouthamel and Shawn and husband Logan Shields; daughter-in-law Carlee; sister-in-law Nancy; brother Richard and wife Carol; and many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

At your service

Obituaries are offered as a community service to residents and families of residents, both past and present, as well as to those people with ties to the island. Submit to news@islander.org. Obituaries are provided free — a service of your community newspaper.

Paid obituaries can be discussed with advertising consultant Toni Lyon at 941-778-7978.

laPensee

Center to host Rise Up beneﬁt

The Center of Anna Maria Island will host Rise up for River, a community event to fundraise for River morgan and the child’s family as river fights against primary hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis.

The event will be 3-7 p.m. Saturday, July 13, at the center, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria.

Plans include live music performances, Caribbean food, auctions and raffles.

The Waterfront Restaurant in Anna Maria is sponsoring the event. On its website, the restaurant said, “This event is not just a fundraiser; it’s a celebration of community spirit and solidarity. It’s a chance for everyone to show their support for River and his family, to raise awareness about HLH and to make a meaningful impact on their journey.”

River, according to mom Mackenzie Morgan of Bradenton, was born March 30 but began showing signs of illness in mid-May, including a high fever and liver failure.

For more information about the event, call the center at 941-778-1908.

A GoFundMe.com page is active, with a goal to raise $25,000. Search GoFundMe for “Support River’s fight against primary HlH.”

Library books blood drive

The Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, will host a blood drive with OneBlood 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Wednesday, July 10.

The blood drive will be in the library parking lot.

Appointments are not needed.

OneBlood, on its website at oneblood.org, said there is an increased need for type O and type O-negative donations.

For more information, call the library at 941-7786341.

GoodDeeds

By lisa neff

Assistance sought on AMI

• 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 to build up the group and find 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.

• the island players, 10009 Gulf drive, anna Maria, seeks volunteers for the 76th season of shows. Info: theislandplayers.org, 941-941 778-5755.

• the anna maria island Historical society, 402 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, seeks volunteer docents and bakers. Info: 941-778-0492, amihs.org.

Assistance offered on AMI

• 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.

To list services on AMI or a call for help, email lisa@islander.org with details.

More from the Anna Maria Island Privateers Fourth of July Parade …

roser church joins the anna maria island Privateers fourth of July Parade decked out with ﬂags, dogs and a pickleball match ongoing in the truck bed.

Blood bus stops in HB West manatee fire rescue inspector nick riffe shows off a complimentary t-shirt he received July 3 for donating blood to orlando-based oneBlood during a Bid red Bus visit to Holmes Beach city Hall, 5801 marina drive. oneBlood is a nonprofit organization that provides donated blood to hospitals in florida, georgia and the carolinas. islander Photo: courtesy rodney Kwiatkowski

Island Library to host dog adoption event

Make a list of favorite dog-themed reads and companionable dog breeds.

The Island Library will host “Paws and Pages: A Dog Adoption Event” 10 a.m.-noon Saturday, July 13.

An announcement from the library and Manatee County Animal Welfare said, “Embark on a literary adventure with furry companions at Paws & Pages. Join us for an unforgettable dog adoption event, where families can meet and greet adoptable dogs from MCAW while enjoying special storytimes and craft activities inspired by the magic of books — and dogs, of course!”

The library is at 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach.

For more information, call the library at 941778-6341.

Check The Islander archives

Explore the archives of The Islander dating to November 1992 in the uofF Florida digital newspaper collection at ufdc.ufl.edu.

Bradenton Beach mayor John chappie and friends of the Kiwanis club of anna maria island ride with the anna maria island Privateers in their fourth of July Parade. islander

Photos: robert anderson

Cops & Courts

Arrest made in string of Cortez-area burglaries

A man is facing five counts of burglary to unoccupied structures following a series of local break-ins, including in the Cortez area.

The arrest came June 26 after investigators linked Leslie S. Guthrie to multiple incidents, according to a Manatee County Sheriff’s Office news release. Guthrie, 53, is identified as without a home in Manatee County court records.

Thefts occurred at Judy’s Restaurant and American Lock and Key in the 9500 block of Cortez Road West, Pup in a Tub, 8108 Cortez Road W., and Mez Comics and Games, 8208 Cortez Road W., where surveillance footage was obtained.

MCSO reports also indicated that over the course of several weeks 12 businesses were broken into in a similar fashion, with Bradenton Beach Police Department and the MCSO responding to the calls.

The MCSO zeroed in on Guthrie after observing him allegedly casing businesses in the 2800 block of State Road 64 E., according to the release.

An alarm sounded at a business early June 29 and investigators found evidence of forced entry.

Guthrie was located at a nearby motel and was arrested.

The MCSO said it recovered evidence from Guthrie’s vehicle and motel room related to multiple burglaries.

Court records showed that Guthrie is charged with five counts of burglary of an unoccupied structure, each with a $15,000 bond.

He remained in custody at the Manatee County jail in Palmetto as of July 3.

Guthrie’s arraignment is scheduled for 9 a.m. Friday, Aug. 23, at the Manatee County Judicial Center, 1051 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton.

— Robert Anderson

Water rescue off Egmont Key

u.S. Coast Guard Station Cortez crew members respond June 30 to a twinengine center console boat that became disabled about 11 miles off Egmont Key and radioed for help after a lightning strike. Crewmembers transported five boaters and moved their vessel to Cortez. Minor injuries were reported in the incident. The Coast Guard did not identify those rescued. Egmont Key is at the mouth of Tampa Bay and can be seen from the north end of Anna Maria Island.

Islander Photo: Courtesy uSCG Station Cortez

Streetlife

By Robert Anderson and Ryan Paice

Island police reports

Anna Maria

June 28, 300 block of North Bay Boulevard, burglary. A Manatee County Sheriff’s deputy responded to a call of a burglary in progress. A complainant stated they arrived at their residence to find teens in their home who ran after being discovered. The deputy filed an incident report and searched the area for suspects.

June 29, 200 block of South Bay Boulevard, 12:51 a.m., noise. An MCSO deputy responded to a loud noise complaint. A complainant said loud music and singing emanated from a nearby home. The officer located the source of the noise and issued a citation for violation of the city’s noise ordinance.

The MCSO polices Anna Maria.

Bradenton Beach

June 28, 2653 Gulf Drive S., Coquina South

Boat Ramp, traumatic injuries. An MCSO deputy and county emergency medical services were dispatched to a report of an injured person. A man was working on a trailered boat at the ramp, when the vessel rolled over, injuring him. The man was assessed by EMS and transported to HCA Blake Hospital in Bradenton for treatment.

The Bradenton Beach Police Department polices Bradenton Beach.

Cortez

No new reports.

The MCSO polices Cortez.

Holmes Beach

June 25, 200 block of 71st Street, suspicious person. A person called the Holmes Beach Police Department to report a man circling on a bicycle in

Bradenton man sentenced to probation for underage DUI

Alexander Moone, 19, of Bradenton, is on probation through May 2025 despite avoiding adjudication for a second-degree misdemeanor for alcohol-related reckless driving.

Moone was arrested Oct. 1, 2023, after Holmes Beach police found the then 18-year-old behind the wheel of a vehicle that had been driven recklessly.

Moone displayed signs of impairment and was asked to perform field sobriety exercises, which he failed. He also failed breath tests.

He was transported to the Manatee County jail and then released without bond Oct. 4, 2023, into the county’s pretrial release services program, which involved completing a substance abuse program.

Due to Moone’s successful participation in the county’s Driver Enhanced Treatment Education Rehabilitation program, his charge was changed from driving while intoxicated to alcohol-related reckless driving. Both are second-degree misdemeanors.

Moore pleaded no contest April 29 to the amended charge.

At the same hearing, Judge Melissa Gould of the 12th Circuit Court ruled to withhold adjudication against Moore, but sentenced him to 12 months of probation.

— Ryan Paice

the 200 block of 71st Street around midnight. Three officers responded and found the man, who told police he was biking to his friend’s house when his phone died so he had been searching for the residence. The man declined a ride back to where he was staying and continued searching for his friend’s house.

June 28, Church of the Annunciation, 4408 Gulf Drive, recovered person. An officer found a vehicle registered to a missing person out of Jackson County, North Carolina, parked at the church. The officer found the missing female when she returned to the vehicle

Holey help

Holmes Beach Police Chief Bill Tokajer, left, and code compliance supervisor JT Thomas point July 2 to a sticker attached to the beach access paths asking beachgoers to ﬁll in holes on the shore. Holes left on the beach can harm sea turtles and their hatchlings and also pose hazards for people and safety vehicles.

and reported her whereabouts to the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office. She was with a man and told police they were moving to Florida. The officer determined she did not meet criteria for detainment under the Baker or Marchman Act and was removed from databases as a missing person.

June 29, 100 block of 66th Street, struck turtle nest. An officer responded to reports of a sea turtle nest struck by a golf cart and found Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring volunteers at

Holmes Beach code compliance ofﬁcer Jayson Clayton stands July 2 in a hole left on the beach near 70th Street in the city. Such holed can impact sea turtle nesting — as nesting turtles and hatchlings are not capable of detecting hazards and can fall in holes, become trapped, dehydrated or succumb to predators. Islander Photos: Courtesy Holmes Beach

the scene. They told police the nest was not damaged, only the stake marking it. They added that they had marked the nest a day prior, so the stake had to have been damaged overnight.

HBPD polices Holmes Beach.

Streetlife is based on reports and narratives from the BBPD, HBPD and MCSO.

DOT weighs resident, official input for Longboat Pass Bridge…

By Robert Anderson Islander Reporter

The Florida Department of Transportation is entertaining comment from Longboat Key officials and residents as it considers the future of the Longboat Pass Bridge.

The DOT in March held a public workshop for community input for the bridge design alternatives proposed as part of a project development and environmental study.

The DOT showed three bridge designs during the workshop — a low-level and mid-level bascule bridge and a high-clearance fixed bridge, each with a projected lifespan of 75 years.

The options for the bridge that links the north end of Longboat Key to the south end of Anna Maria Island on State Road 789 are part of the DOT project, development and environment study.

When that study is released, the DOT will recommend one of the options.

Cost estimates vary for replacement, with the fixed-bridge emerging as the most economical at an estimated $93.3 million. The cost is $133.9 million for the mid-level bascule and $133.2 million for the low-level option.

In a June 28 letter to the DOT, Longboat Key officials recommended a mid-level bascule bridge.

“Our primary recommendation is that the fixedspan bridge, while the less costly option, is not the right solution for several reasons,” the letter states.

The letter says residents of Longboat Key oppose the fixed-span bridge for multiple reasons.

The bridge, at 78 feet, would be higher than the John Ringling Causeway Bridge, requiring a steeper grade of at least 4.5%, potentially leading to safety concerns for pedestrians and cyclists due to increased downhill speeds, according to the Longboat Key statement.

Additionally, LBK officials said, the high bridge would not be in keeping with the key’s character as a “low-rise, residential community connected by modest drawbridges.”

The DOT had not responded to the town’s letter directly as of July 5, according to town public information officer Susan Phillips.

But the DOT, in a July 2 email to The Islander, said all comments during the PD&E process carry equal weight in shaping the project’s direction.

“The DOT is currently reviewing and responding to public comments received after the workshop,” DOT public information officer Jason Heironimus wrote in the July 2 email.

“FDOT will continue its review of the three alternatives, public feedback, and the environmental impacts of each alternative prior to making a recommendation for a preferred alternative,” Heironimus continued.

He said the DOT already revised designs based on comments received from the public that all three bridge designs were too wide.

“At this time, FDOT is coordinating with its consultants and partners to produce required environmental and engineering documents in preparation of the public hearing for next year,” he said.

A graphic from the DOT earlier this year shows the existing travel pattern on the Longboat Pass Bridge and a proposed pattern. Islander File Image

The DOT, during its review, also has looked at a “no build” option in which the existing bridge would be remodeled and maintained over time. However, the DOT’s “evaluation matrix” of the four possible bridge designs showed too many negatives for the “no build” alternative.

Longboat Key officials also addressed the need to replace the bridge.

“We all understand that the current structure is beyond its useful life and needs to be replaced,” the town’s letter states.

The bridge replacement will address functional deficiencies in the current structure, which was built in 1957 and underwent remodeling in 2005 and 2020.

With a bridge health index falling below 50, indicating critical deterioration, the DOT prioritized the project to enhance safety and operational efficiency.

Another key consideration under review involves access to Coquina Beach in Bradenton Beach, which could be altered by the construction of the fixed bridge, shifting entrance points approximately 500 feet northward.

The DOT also has looked at moving the span to

the west, bringing the bridge entrance closer to northernmost neighborhoods on western Longboat Key.

The DOT anticipates finalizing a design concept for the Longboat Pass Bridge by late 2025, with preliminary engineering in 2026. The PD&E is scheduled for completion in 2025.

The bridge replacement initiative is part of a broader effort by the DOT to upgrade infrastructure across the state, including recommendations for highclearance, fixed bridges on Cortez Road and Manatee Avenue to Anna Maria Island.

The Anna Maria Island Bridge replacement project is in the design phase, with design completion expected in 2025.

A new 65-foot-high fixed span bridge also is being designed to replace the Cortez Bridge between Cortez and Bradenton Beach.

The DOT maintains the larger bridge will ease traffic wait times while those in opposition to the design maintain a midlevel 35-foot drawbridge will not require retaining walls that might block businesses and residences near the entryway to the bridge’s onramp in Cortez.

Earlier this year, a legal challenge to the project’s specifications—specifically, objections to the bridge’s proposed 65-foot height—was dismissed following a federal appeal review, clearing a legal hurdle for the DOT on the way to construction.

While Longboat Key officials oppose a high bridge for their community, the town, in 2017, encouraged the DOT to build a high, fixed bridge on Cortez Road.

A letter from the town to the DOT in 2017 read, “Other communities have seen high fixed-span bridges replace drawbridges with great success. For example, the city of Sarasota went from initially objecting to the higher fixed span bridge (during the planning process) to embracing it as a defining element of their city. The John Ringling Causeway is now considered an iconic landmark and is a prominent and celebrated component of the Sarasota landscape.”

For more information about the Longboat Pass Bridge, contact project manager Patrick Bateman at 863-519-2792 or email patrick.bateman@dot.state. ﬂ.us.

The Longboat Pass Bridge, looking north July 4 to Bradenton Beach from Longboat Key. Islander Photo: Jacob Merriﬁeld

… and lingers on design for Cortez Bridge replacement

By Robert Anderson Islander Reporter

The Florida Department of Transportation continues to work on the design for a high, fixed-span bridge connecting Cortez and Bradenton Beach.

The project, estimated to cost $77 million, will replace the drawbridge that was built in 1956.

“We are still working on the design, and we are targeting a fiscal year 2026 letting,” according to a June 27 email from DOT public information officer Jason Heironimus,

The DOT said construction could commence as early as 2026, pending necessary approvals of an environmental resource permit from the Southwest Florida Water Management District and others from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the U.S. Coast Guard and the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, which deals with coastal construction control lines and pollutant discharge elimination.

The Swiftmud permit is needed to address potential impacts on wetlands, surface water ﬂows and water quality during construction activities. As of June 27, the DOT had yet to submit a permit application to Swiftmud.

The new bridge will accommodate larger vessels. Unlike the current 22-foot clearance drawbridge, the new structure would have a 65-foot fixed span and eliminate the need for movable parts, thereby reducing maintenance costs over time.

The DOT maintains the larger bridge will ease traffic congestion for motorists and eliminate wait times for boaters.

However, those in opposition to the high span maintain a midlevel drawbridge is appropriate and would not require retaining walls that could block businesses and homes near the bridge ramp in Cortez.

Earlier this year, a legal challenge objecting to the bridge’s 65-foot height was dismissed following a federal appeal review, clearing a legal hurdle for the DOT on its way to construction.

Looking south, southeast across the Cortez Bridge from Bradenton Beach to Cortez July 6. The bridge is scheduled for a 2026 replacement by the Florida Department of Transportation. Islander Photo: Jacob Merrifield

Meanwhile, Manatee County is moving forward with plans to relocate a 24-inch potable water main located on the bay bottom under the Cortez Bridge in expectation of the bridge replacement.

County public information officer Bill Logan, in a June 27 email to The Islander, said a contract for the $8.8 million project was awarded to DBE Utility Services of Loxahatchee and a preconstruction conference is scheduled for July 10.

Logan said dates for the start of construction will be discussed during the conference.

For more information on the Cortez Bridge project, go online to cortezbridge.com or Patrick Bateman, project manager, can be reached at patrick.bateman@ dot.state.ﬂ.us or 863-519-2792.

Eyes on the road

• South Bradenton Beach: Manatee County is nearing the completion of its sewer project on Gulf Drive South. For the latest, go to amiprojects.io.

• City center in Holmes Beach: Manatee County’s fi nal work on a force main project on Holmes Boulevard, Marina Drive and side streets is ongoing.

A project walkthrough was performed and the contractor is completing punch-list items and cleanup. For the latest, go to amiprojects.io.

For area road watch information, go online to swﬂroads.com or dial 511

— lisa Neff

On the links, at the pits

By Kevin P. Cassidy Islander Reporter

Forty-four golfers conquered the heat to play in the annual Key Royale Club Fourth of July RamblerScramble golf tournament.

The team of Joseph, Tracy and Joe Becht combined with Madison Gonzalez on a 3-under-par 61 to earn clubhouse bragging rights and a toast for the day. The team of Jim and Peter Bailey, Don Grau and Isaiah Wallace took second place with a 1-under-par 63, and Greg and Randall Jump, Joe Coyne and Rich Salzburg took third place with a 3-over-par 67.

Reece Miller won the long drive contest for the men, while Debi Wohlers captured the event for the women. Wohlers also won the closest-to-the-pin on number eight while Ryan Kester took the prize for the men. Tracy Becht and Joe Becht won their respective putting contests. Following the event, players enjoyed a “firecracker” lunch at the clubhouse.

Horseshoe news

Horseshoe action at the Anna Maria City Hall pits July 3 was short and sweet.

Gerson Fernandes and Gary Howcroft continued a recent string of outright winners by various players when they posted the only 3-0 record during pool play and earned a trip to the winner’s circle.

Four teams emerged from pool play with matching 2-1 records during the July 6 games and settled things in a playoff. The first semifinal saw Tim Sofran and Dom Livedoti eliminate Gary Howcroft 24-2, while Tom Farrington advanced as a walker with a 21-5 victory over Bob Heiger and Steve Doyle. In a close match, Sofran and Livedoti defeated Farrington 23-17 to win the day’s championship.

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

There is no charge to play and everyone is welcome.

SportsShort

De Soto offers fishing clinic

De Soto National Memorial will host a fishing clinic at 10 a.m. Sunday, July 14.

The memorial is at 8300 Desoto Memorial Highway, Bradenton.

The event, part of the memorial’s summer programming, requires tickets, which can be booked at recreation.gov by searching for De Soto National Memorial.

For other information, call 941-792-0458.

— lisa Neff

Gerson Fernandes, left, and Gary Howcroft post the lone 3-0 record in pool play and are the outright winners during July 3 horseshoe action at the

Pines removed at BB park

Harley’s Tree Service works July 1 on removing Australian pine trees from Herb Dolan Park in the 2500 block of Avenue A in Bradenton Beach. City commissioners voted June 20 to fund the $7,500 tree removal to open vistas of the Intracoastal Waterway. Australian pine trees, considered exotic and invasive species, lose branches easily if not maintained and can topple in high winds due to shallow root systems. In 2022, the city removed two felled Australian pines from Herb Dolan children’s park after Hurricane Ian. Islander

Photo: Robert Anderson

Continued

accurately.

Moreover, ongoing training enables professionals to adapt to emerging trends like electric and autonomous vehicles, enhancing their ability to address evolving customer needs. We’re committed to meeting your needs.

Cassidy

Anna Maria City Hall pits. Islander

Photo: Courtesy AMI Pitchers

Joe Becht, Madison Gonzalez, Tracy Becht and Joseph Becht pose on winning the annual Fourth of July tournament at the Key Royale Club. Islander

Photo: Courtesy KRC

Anglers head out after 4th festivities for hookups

By Capt. Danny Stasny Islander Reporter

After recovering from the consumption of copious amounts of alcohol and BBQ and surviving an array of small explosives over the long holiday weekend, Anna Maria Island anglers are creeping back into local waters to do some fishing.

Multitudes of people from all over were out on our waters for the July 4 weekend, and now, with the amateurs gone, the local wildlife, including the fish, birds, manatees and sea turtles, are venturing out from their hiding places.

The hum of outboard motors and personal watercraft has all but subsided except for the charter captains and recreational anglers that the fish are used to hearing curse during the eruption of vacation traffic.

Many anglers are targeting mangrove snapper. Fishing inshore structure such as piers, bridges and docks is beginning to heat up. Snapper are being found in the passes both north and south of Anna Maria Island. Using small shiners or “hatch bait” works best, as these baits are a favorite meal for the mangrove snapper.

In some areas, catching limits of the fish is attainable while in others the bite remains sporadic. Doing your homework is key to finding success. Have several of your favorite snapper spots in mind before you leave so you have some options to find the fish. And, with the number of boats out targeting snapper, you’re definitely going to want to have options as you may find someone sitting on your spot when you get there.

On the flats, spotted seatrout are abundant. Using live shiners as bait is leading to plenty of action on the deeper grass fl ats where good tidal fl ow exists. Many areas are holding trout 12-14 inches while some select areas are holding slot-size and even over-slot fish. You’ll know after a few catches whether the larger fish are present. If you’re just catching small ones, one after the other, it’s time to move on.

Catch-and-release snook fishing is worth trying right now with many fish being caught along the beaches and passes. Hooking up with snook along the

mangroves in the back country is working, while larger specimens seem to be closer to the beaches.

On my Just Reel charters, I’m seeing plenty of spotted seatrout reeled in. Using live shiners as bait is leading to trout 12-24 inches. Plenty of slot-size fish 15-19 inches are being caught which is making daily limits attainable for my clients who are looking for a fish dinner.

Targeting catch-and-release snook along the beaches and passes is good during swift moving tides. Snook catches are 20-32 inches and the fish are hooking up on live shiners as bait. On many mornings we’re averaging about 15-20 snook. When targeting snook along the mangroves in the backcountry, I’m also seeing slot-size redfish being caught.

Capt. David White says he’s catching mangrove snapper on his inshore charters. Fishing over wrecks and reefs with small shiners as bait is leading to near limits of the popular fish. Chumming with hatch bait is working to get the snapper to rise from the bottom as they frolic in the chum, making them targetable on hook and line.

After catching snapper, White is moving on to the deeper grass ﬂats of Tampa Bay to target spotted

New state budget contains Rattlesnake dollars

The 2024-25 budget Gov. Ron DeSantis signed in June contains $116.5 billion in funding, including money for preservation on Rattlesnake Key.

A line item in the budget that went into effect July 1 provides $8 million for Rattlesnake Key, Alexandra Kuchta, Florida Department of Environmental Protection communications director confirmed July 3 in an email to The Islander.

Rattlesnake Key lies southwest of the Sunshine Skyway Bridge on Tampa and Terra Ceia bays and for decades the state’s goal has been to protect environmentally sensitive and recreationally attractive acreage in the area.

In addition to the $8 million in state money for the Rattlesnake preservation push, Manatee County, a partner on the project, has authorized about $2 million for acquisition.

The county also is taking the lead on the purchase, which would allow Rattlesnake to become a county preserve rather than a state park, as initially intended.

In 2022, DeSantis signed a budget that included

$23 million to acquire more than 1,000 acres to create a state park.

The DEP has told The Islander that its purchase offer to property owners in 2023 was not accepted and the sun has set on that appropriation.

Both appropriations were sought by state Sen. Jim Boyd, R-Bradenton, who has called Rattlesnake a gem that should be forever preserved.

— lisa Neff

A map includes Rattlesnake Key. Islander File Image

Tembre Bain, 16, of Blanchard, Oklahoma, got up early June 27 to go snook ﬁshing with Capt. Danny Stasny of Just Reel Fishing Charters. This was her biggest snook of the day, measuring in at 30 inches.

seatrout. Free-lining liver shiners in these areas is leading to an array of trout 14-22 inches.

On the shallower ﬂats in Tampa Bay around mangrove shorelines, White’s sport-fi shing anglers are catching and releasing snook, with most linesiders measuring 20-30 inches.

Moving offshore, White says mangrove and yellowtail snapper are a good bet. Both are being caught on either live shiners or frozen sardines as bait.

Capt. Scott Flinn of She’s Way Out There fishing charters says he’s finding plenty of action while targeting spotted seatrout in Terra Ceia Bay. Free-lining live shiners as bait over deep grass ﬂats is yielding limits of trout with most catches 16-18 inches, and larger and smaller examples in the mix.

Targeting catch-and-release snook in Terra Ceia is going well for Flinn, where he says casting live shiners along mangrove shorelines works well to hook up the linesiders. During lighter tides, Flinn says getting baits as close to the bushes as possible is imperative. During the heat of the day, the snook are taking refuge in the shade of the mangroves.

Lastly, on the lower stages of the tides, Flinn has his clients targeting redfish on deeper holes throughout the grass ﬂats. On the lower parts of the tides, the reds are “sitting ducks” in the holes, waiting for higher water so they can disperse throughout the ﬂats. Finding them in the potholes makes it like fishing in a barrel.

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

TideWatch

Water quality issues reported

Suncoast Waterkeeper June 24 took samples to test water quality and results showed “don’t swim” levels of enterococci bacteria at multiple locations in Manatee and Sarasota areas, including Robinson Preserve and the Palma Sola Causeway North beach.

The bacteria was not detected at the Longboat Key Boat Ramp and Longboat Key’s Bayfront Park and was at a “safe to swim” level at the Historic Bridge Street Pier in Bradenton Beach.

The bacteria live in the intestinal tracts of warmblooded animals and the presence of the bacteria in the water indicates the presence of fecal waste.

— lisa Neff

Stasny

By Lisa Neff

Here’s to looking up

Here’s our midsummer guide to looking up.

Midway through the year, as well as ahead of a new year, Sandscript provides a skywatch calendar, a glance at celestial occurrences to come — meteor showers, eclipses, moon phases and more.

We check the Old Farmer’s Almanac, NASA’s events calendars, the website for the American Meteor Society, resources from the U.S. Naval Observatory and “The Sky” from Sea and Sky.

Some highlights:

• July 21, full moon. The moon will be on the opposite side of the Earth as the sun and its face will be fully illuminated.

• July 22, Mercury will be at its highest point above the horizon in the evening sky. Look for the planet low in the western sky after sunset.

• July 28-29, Delta Aquarids meteor shower peaks. The shower can produce up to 20 meteors per hour. Meteors will radiate from the constellation Aquarius.

• Aug. 4, new moon. The moon will be on the same side of the Earth as the sun and will not be visible in the night sky. This is the best time of the month to observe

Sky-painting

faint objects such as galaxies and star clusters because there is no moonlight to interfere.

• Aug. 12-13, Perseids meteor shower peaks. The shower can produce up to 60 meteors per hour. It is produced by comet Swift-Tuttle. Best viewing will be from a dark location after midnight.

• Aug. 19, full moon. This moon has been called the sturgeon, green corn and grain moon and it also is a blue moon, as it is the third of four full moons in one season.

• Sept. 3, new moon.

• Sept. 5, Mercury will be at its highest point above the horizon in the morning sky.

• Sept. 8, Saturn will be brighter than any other time of the year and will be visible all night long.

• Sept. 18, full moon, supermoon. This will be the first of three supermoons in 2024. The moon will be near its closest approach to the Earth and may look slightly larger and brighter than usual.

• Sept. 18, partial lunar eclipse. A part of the moon

will darken as it moves through the Earth’s shadow. The eclipse will be visible throughout most of North America.

• Sept. 22, equinox. The sun will shine directly on the equator and there will be nearly equal amounts of day and night throughout the world.

• Oct. 2, new moon.

• Oct. 17, full moon, supermoon.

• Oct. 21-22, Orionids meteor shower peaks. The Orionids produces up to 20 meteors per hour at its peak. It is produced by dust grains left behind by comet Halley. Meteors will radiate from the constellation Orion.

• Nov. 1, new moon.

• Nov. 15, full moon, supermoon.

• Nov. 16, Mercury will be at its highest point above the horizon in the evening sky. Look for the planet low in the western sky just after sunset.

• Dec. 1, new moon.

• Dec. 7, Jupiter will be at its closest approach to Earth and its face will be fully illuminated by the sun. Binoculars should reveal Jupiter’s four largest moons.

• Dec. 13-14, Geminids meteor shower peaks. The Geminids produces up to 120 multicolored meteors per hour at its peak. It is produced by debris left behind by an asteroid known as 3200 Phaethon. Best viewing will be from a dark location after midnight.

Dec. 15, full moon.

• Dec. 21, solstice. The South Pole will be tilted toward the sun, which will have reached its southernmost position in the sky, directly over the Tropic of Capricorn.

Help looking up

Sea and Sky at seasky.org is the best online resource.

Night Sky is a free and useful smartphone app. And, for space flight fans, download the Next Spaceﬂight app.

Neff

ITEMS FOR SALE

BRADENTON MARA u DERS WATERPROOF team banner. 5 by 3 feet, $10. Mad Magazine’s special edition movie classic spoofs, $5. Call Bill, 724-986-0314.

BOSu HOME GyM, $35, exercise ball, $25, side tables, round, glass top, 2/$19, black chairs, soft leather 2/$20. 941-920-2494.

ANTIQ u E PARTNER DESK: All wood, $500. Inquire at The Islander office, 315 58th St. Suite J, Holmes Beach. 941-778-7978.

FREEBIE ITEMS FOR SALE

Individuals may place one free ad with up to three items, each priced $100 or less, 15 words or less. FREE, one week, must be submitted online. Email classifieds@islander.org. (limited time offer).

TRANSPORTATION

GOlF CART RENTAlS: Fun for residents and tourists! 212-941-2402. www.GolfCartRentalAMI.com.

2018 CluB CAR: street-legal, high-speed gear box to 25 mph, lED lights with nearly new batteries, bluetooth sound system, rolldown canvas rain protection. In excellent condition. 303-944-8300.

BOATS & BOATING

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

SuNCOAST BOTTOM PAINTING: Professional bottom painting. Mobile. Call 941-704-9382.

CAPTAIN FOR HIRE and boat caretaker services: If you need help with your boat on or off the water, call Captain Dan. uSCG, retired. 772-486-8085.

WElCOME ABOARD JOyFISH Charters for private fishing, sunset cruises, and dolphin watching. Check out joyfishcharters.com or follow us on Facebook. Call to reserve, 941840-3181.

HELP WANTED

WANTED: EXPERIENCED NAI l tech, great personality. Part- and full-time. looking for a change, come join our salon! Call 941-5453305.

NOW HIRING HANDyMAN: Full-time professional services. $18 an hour and up, based on experience. Call JayPros, 941-962-2874.

REPORTER WANTED: Full- to part-time. Print media, newspaper experience required. Apply via email with letter of interest to news@ islander.org.

KIDS FOR HIRE

KIDS FOR HIRE ads are FREE for up to three weeks for Island youths under 16 looking for work. Ads must be placed in person at The Islander office, 315 58th St. Suite J, Holmes Beach.

SERVICES

IS y O u R HOME or office in need of some cleaning? Well, I’m your girl! l ocal, reliable, professional! Please, give me a call or text, 941-773 -0461.

C l EANING: VACATION, CONSTR u CTION, residential, commercial and windows. licensed and insured. 941-756-4570.

PRESSuRE WASHING, PAVER sealing, driveway, roof, fence, pool area. Also, window cleaning. licensed and insured. 941-565-3931.

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

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

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

SERVICES Continued

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

SARASOTA PAINTING: INTERIOR/exterior/ cabinets: Call or text Don, 941-900-9398. Free estimates. Fully insured licensed business.

u PluS ME llC: Provides quality coatings for pool decks, driveways, garage floors, patios. Don’t miss out on our pro polishing services, concrete, terrazzo, travertine. 727-623-5050.

RIDEEASy 247 yOuR professional, reliable and courteous car service to airports and events since 2015. you can reach us via text 941-447-7737 or email to mrfort5001@gmail. com We are available 24/7.

lOOK NO MORE! Residential, vacation rental and commercial cleaning. Give us a call, 941250-8548.

lOOKING FOR SOMEONE who needs me: Clean, house-sit. I can cook, make sandwiches. I can do anything you can do but better! I can run to the grocery store for you. I can walk pets or go out to lunch with you. looking for a part-time job caregiving companion, I am your right arm! I love people and I love helping others. I have references and I’m reliable and dependable. My name is Dena Gray a.k.a. Sparkles! 941-704-9948.

WINDOW ClEANING: COMMERCIAl/residential. Free estimates/insured. We want to earn your business! 207-852-6163.

O u R SERVICES: C l EANING, home repairs, tile, concrete, remodeling, decks, steps, flooring, water drainage solutions, rental 24-hour services. Hurricane shutters and pre-storm service. New, low-cost generator and insulation (starts and runs on propane when power off). No permits needed. Islander, over 40 years here! Call 941-404-9163.

ClIPPER’S BARBERSHOP: $19 men’s haircut! 7:30 am- 3 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday. 36-plus years. 8208 Cortez Road W., Bradenton. 941920-6442.

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

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

LAWN & GARDEN

CONNIE’S l ANDSCAPING INC. Residential and commercial. Full-service lawn maintenance, landscaping, cleanups, hauling and more! Insured. 941-713-1965.

More ads = more readers in The Islander.

LAWN & GARDEN Continued

COllINS lANDSCAPE lIGHTING: Outdoor lighting, landscaping, irrigation services and maintenance. 941-279-9947. MJC24373@ gmail.com.

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

HOME IMPROVEMENT

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

GRIFFIN’S HOME IMPROVEMENTS Inc. Handyman, fine woodwork, countertops, cabinets and wood flooring. Insured and licensed. 941-722-8792.

lANE’S SCREENING SERVICES: Replace your window, door or lanai screens. Many screen options available. Retired veteran serving our community! Free estimates, call 941-705-5293.

lOOKING FOR ANy home improvement?

JRCC Home Improvement, handyman service can get the job done. Please, contact us at 413-246-2410. We would love to help.

TIlE-TIlE-TIlE: All variations of ceramic tile supplied and installed. Quality workmanship, prompt, reliable, many Island references. Call Robert, 941-726-3077.

DONAlD PERKINS PAINTING llC. Interior/exterior/pressure washing. Island references. dperkinspaint@hotmail.com. 941705-7096.

GORIllA DRyWAll REPAIR llC. let’s solve your drywall problems together. Give us a call at 941-286-0607.

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

A.R.E. RENOVATION’S: WHOlESAlE kitchen cabinets, direct remodel, bathrooms, trim, doors, flooring, tile. license # CRC.1334176. 941-465-3045.

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

RENTALS

ANNA MARIA GulF beachfront vacation rentals. One- two- and three-bedroom units, all beachfront. www.amiparadise.com. 941-7783143.

PERICO ISlAND PATIO home for rent. 3BR/2BA, 30-day minimum. Privacy fence/ gate, two miles to AMI. Call or text, 859-7716423. http://pericoislandrental.com/

AVAIlABlE NOW AND season: 1BR/1BA, seven-night minimum. carlesvacationrentals. co m . Special rates are available. 941-8071405.

ANNuAl RENTAl: VIllA home in Perico Bay Club, Bradenton. Gated and 24-hour security. 2BR/2BA, updated. updated kitchen, screened deck and two-car garage. unfurnished. Text 908-875-0299 for information.

RENTALS Continued

FOR RENT: Anna Maria Island condo. Great value, beautiful upgraded 2BR/2BR. Incredible water view. Pool, tennis, walk to beach. Private carport. Excellent rental terms. Owner/renter. Call/email for pictures, 570-239-0431. marketreps@aol.com

2BR/2BA HOlMES BEACH. Westbay Point. Second-floor, furnished condo, beautiful bay views. No pets, no smoking. Six months, $2,850/month. 941-778-2824.

HOlMES BEACH 2BR/2BA elevated furnished duplex with one-car garage. No pets, no smoking. Six months, $2,850/month plus utilities. 941-778-2824.

FOR RENT: HOlMES Beach 2BR/2/BA groundlevel. Five-minute walk to beach, quiet area. No animals, one parking spot. Available June, July, August. Summer rate, $2,300/month plus tax. Please, text or email for more information. louann lehto, +1 403-512-2350. dlehto@telus. net

FlAMINGO By THE Bay condo for rent on Palma Sola Bay. Second floor with a view. 1BR/1BA with boat dock. Annual rental, $1,800/month. 941-224-0836.

SEASONAl RENTAl: Bradenton 55-plus community. large 2BR/2BA condo on bay, exceptional views. Elevator and five minutes to bridge. No smoking, No pets. $4,650/month. Three-month minimum. Photos at https://barbaragillespie.wixsite.com/47872024. 732-7480759

SEASONAl RENTAl IN Holmes Beach available January-April 2025. Elevated townhouse 2BR/1.5BA. Three-month minimum. $4,100/ month plus tax, fees. Call Anna Maria Realty, 941-778-2259 or email dina@annamariareal. com

JANuARy ONly: 2BR/1BA. Close to Cortez Village, 2 miles to beach. Quiet neighborhood but close to great restaurant and shopping, across from Sarasota Bay. 941-773-1552.

ANNuAl RENTAl: HOlMES Beach. Two blocks to beach. 2BR/2BA. $2,500/month. Internet and basic cable included until March 2025. 920-763-2800.

CONDO TO RENT in gated community (fi ve miles from Anna Maria). Available July until end November, all included! 704-993-0288. www. floridarentals.com/10943/

CONDO VACATION RENTAlS: Palma Sola townhouse, 2BR/2BA pool and boat dock. $1,000/week. Perico Bay Club, 2BR/2BA, onecar garage. $2,800/month. Real Estate Mart, 941-356-1456.

ISlANDER ARCHIVE. uofF Florida digital newspaper collection at ufdc.ufl.edu.

REAL ESTATE

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. 941-5186329.

CONDO FOR SAlE or lease. 2BR/2BA at the west end of Bradenton Riverwalk. Downtown walk-a-bout community features library, performing art center, creative art center and galleries. Shoppes, fine and casual dining. $280,000. Florida Suncoast Real Estate, Geri Kenyon, 941-725-4374.

PRIVATE SAlE: THE perfect VRBO or private vacation home. Beautiful beachside bungalow direct marina front with peek-a-boo views of Palma Sola Bay. Private boat docks 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.

uPDATED VIllA: 2BR/2BA, pool and clubhouse. Call Fred for information and viewing. $285,000. Real Estate Mart, 941-356-1456.

By Robyn Murrell

Big praise for small business

There’s no business like small business. The devotion some owners have to the products and services they provide should not go without recognition.

The Manatee Chamber of Commerce seeks nominations for its 2024 Small Business of the Year Awards with a celebration to be held Oct. 3 at the Bradenton Area Convention Center in Palmetto.

The chamber is seeking nominations for a deserving business or nonproﬁt to be recognized for their outstanding work by Friday, July 12, at manateechamber. com/smallbiznomination/.

For more information, contact the chamber at 941748-3411 or email info@manateechamber.com.

Business news Does your business celebrate achievements? Maybe you’re new in business? Email news@islander.org.

Mike Norman Realty

2 bed, 2 bath Cortez home, 1,826 sqft, 1/3 acre on deep-water canal with boat house. $1,095,000.

Hackney Realtor 941.720.5267 ryansellsami@gmail.com 317c Pine Ave., AM

BizCal

Mixing and relaxing with island chamber

Dr. Debbie Hutchinson, owner of Turning Tides with Dr. Hutch, goes over her services June 27 with an attendee at the Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce Business Card Exchange hosted at Hutchinson’s shop, 6672 Cortez Road W., Bradenton. More than 30 people attended the event. Turning Tides offers help to people with hormone imbalance, brain fog and stress management. For more information, contact Turning Tides at 941-280-4673 or go online to turningtideswithdrhutch. com. Islander

Photo: Robyn Murrell

By Robyn Murrell

THIS WEEK

Thursday, July 11

11:30 a.m. — Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce luncheon, Pesto Bistro & Wine Bar, 8799 Cortez Road W., Bradenton. Information: 941-778-154, ingrid@amichamber.org.

SAVE THE DATES

July 25, 5-7 p.m., AMI chamber’s business card exchange with the Monkey Bus, Slicker’s Eatery, 12012 Cortez Road W., Bradenton.

July 30, 5:30-7:30 p.m., Manatee Chamber of Commerce 2024 Meet the Candidates, 7051 Wireless Court, Sarasota. Oct. 19, 10 a.m.-9 p.m., AMI chamber’s BayFest, Pine Avenue, Anna Maria. Send calendar listings to robyn@islander.org.

PropertyWatch

By Carol Bernard

Island real estate

777 Jacaranda Road, Anna Maria, 1,735 squarefoot 4BR, 2BA on 10,001 square-foot lot, built in 1957, sold May 17 by Brown to 777 Jacaranda LLC, $1,200,000, list price $1,350,000.

265 Gladiolus St., Anna Maria, 1,748 square-foot 2BR, 3BA on 10,193 square-foot lot, built in 1970, sold May 17 by Moore to Thomasson, $1,250,000, list price $1,495,000.

266 Gladiolus St., Anna Maria, 1,403 square-foot 3BR, 2BA, pool home on 7,993 square-foot lot, built in 1968, sold April 18 by Craft to Hagelin, $1,700,000, list price $1,799,000.

608 Fern St., Anna Maria, 1,676 square-foot 3BR, 2BA pool home on 5,702 square-foot lot, built in 1994, sold May 13 by Sebastian to Mattingly, $1,700,000, list price $1,849,000

1107 Gulf Drive S., Bradenton Beach, 1,554 square-foot 2BR, 3BA on 5,001 square-foot lot, built in 1930, sold May 25 by Sea Sand TI LLC to DBSA Real Estate Dev Inc., $1,690,000, list price $1,790,000.

305 65th St., Holmes Beach, 2,992 square-foot 4BR, 4BA on 9,361 square-foot lot, built in 1977, sold April 26 by Orchrd to 20K Homes 2 LLC, $1,200,000, list price $1,349,900.

5806 Gulf Drive #207, Holmes Beach, 1,184 square-foot 2BR, 2BA Waters Edge condo, built in 1975, sold April 25 by Gryzwa to Jones, $1,275,000, list price $1,275,000.

512 67th St., Holmes Beach, 1,737 square-foot 3BR, 3BA pool home on 8,812 square-foot lot, built in 1972, sold April 19 by Ouradnik to Doreste, $1,405,000, list price, $1,295,000.

300 62nd St., Holmes Beach, 1,438 square-foot 3BR, 2BA pool home on 8,850 square-foot lot, built in 2009, sold April 25 by Schacht to Marchelletta, $1,540,000, list price $1,599,900.

Compiled by Island Real Estate staff. IRE can be reached at 941-778-6066, islandreal.com.

Target hiring, set to open Aug. 18

The Target store at 7350 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton, in the Beachway Plaza will open Aug. 18. And the store’s hiring process is underway. Positions include security specialist, visual merchandiser, guest advocate and specialty sales in tech and beauty. For more information, go online to jobs.

Cafe owners land on the sunny side

Minnie’s cafe owners Kathy Smart, left, and Mary Doub pause for a photo July 3 at the restaurant door in the S&S Plaza, 5360 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. Islander Photo: Robyn Murrell

A pandemic, loan repayment, road construction, building renovation, collapsed stents, fear of amputation and the rising cost of food created a series of unfortunate circumstances that took a toll on Kathy Smart and Mary Doub, owners of Minnie’s Beach Cafe, 5360 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach.

The circumstances lead Smart to launch a GoFundMe campaign June 29, saying, “It’s time to put my pride aside and try to save one of the last momand-pop businesses on the island” and calling for help to keep the 30-year-old breakfast and lunch cafe open in the S&S Plaza.

In response to Smart’s call, the people who enjoy Minnie’s came together to support the couple and their business, surpassing the GoFundMe goal of $20,000 to over $25,000 from 184 donors, as of July 3.

Smart and Doub worked in the cafe around the clock until a health emergency and surgery sidelined them.

“My foot had no blood flow for three days. They found three clots and all my stents had collapsed. So they’re not sure if my foot will ever come back to normal again. It swells up when I stand,” Smart told The Islander via phone July 2.

“She almost died,” Doub added, with a sigh.

Smart said the money will go to bills and rent.

“We were just trying to stay caught up. And it just got to the point where it was do or die,” Smart said.

She expressed her gratitude for the outpouring from customers, saying, “Thank you, not for the donations but for their loyalty over the last 30 years. These people on this island are amazing.”

To give to Minnie’s cause, go online to gofund.me and search for Minnie’s Cafe.

For more information, contact Minnie’s at 941778-4140.

— Robyn Murrell

PICTURE DAY BY MICHAEL SCHLOSSBERG / EDITED BY JOEL FAGLIANO

No. 0630