The Islander Newspaper E-Edition: Wednesday, April. 03, 2024

Astheworldterns 6

1st responders see calm amid crowds. 2

HB details ‘p’ for parking spots. 3

Q&A 040324 3

BB tags for lack of permits. 2

AM refines cannabis codes. 5

Meetings 5

Opinions 6

10-30 YEARS AGO

looking back. 7

RoadWatch 8

Waterfront path proposed in BB. 8

Cortez honors village matriarch. 9

Save the date. 10-11

Happenings

What’s up on AMi? 10-11

Celebrating heritage. 12

Springing forward. 13

Gathering. 14

Obituaries 15

Cops & Courts 16

NYT puzzle 16

3rd pickleball court possible in HB. 19

ironman achieves in Vegas. 20

April brings opportunities for anglers. 21

in the partial path. 23

CLASSIFIEDS. 24-25

Isl Biz: 26

PropertyWatch 27

The islander archive, dating to November 1992, is at the University of Florida Digital Newspaper Collection: ufdc.ufl.edu.

Island historical society, privateers celebrate Heritage Day

The Best News on Anna Maria island Since 1992 islander.org

logan Blevins, 12, of Virginia, left, and his cousin, William Julian, 6, of Colorado, “duel” March 26 during Heritage Day at the Anna Maria island Historical Society Museum grounds, 402 pine Ave., Anna Maria. The Anna Maria String Band plays in the background. islander photos: ryan paice

Holmes Beach Mayor Judy Titsworth, left rear, and Anna Maria Mayor Dan Murphy raise their shackles March 26 while imprisoned in the old Anna Maria City Jail by Anna Maria island privateers Jan “Sleeping Beauty” Hyatt, left, and Terry “Colonel Clink” Kilpatrick.

“He is risen,” worshippers recite March 31 at the Kiwanis Club of Anna Maria island assembly of churches for the 59th annual Easter morning service at the Manatee public Beach in Holmes Beach. More inside, page 14. islander photo: Jacob Merrifield

The Sandbar Seafood and Spirits restaurant in Anna Maria Easter Egg Hunt is host to 500-600 people on the beach for fun, games and contests. Sandbar staff said they placed 5,000 eggs in the sand and the kids went wild on the hunt. islander

photo: Dara Caudill/ island photography

1st responders report calm amid crowds over spring break

By robert Anderson islander reporter

Island first responders, midway through the Easter week, reported a peaceful spring break.

Bradenton Beach police Chief John Cosby said a combination of city and county personnel was making for a quiet holiday.

“We had some minor noise complaints but nothing serious,” Bradenton Beach police Lt. Lenard Diaz added March 28, with the long holiday weekend still to come.

The Easter holiday coincided with spring break for Manatee County public school students, as well as students in many other U.S. communities. Still more school districts went on break April 1.

Diaz described the week beginning March 25 as crowded but typical.

He said there was one golf cart crash that occurred at the Bridge Street-Gulf Drive roundabout but no one

required medical treatment.

In Holmes Beach, police Chief Bill Tokajer reported a crowded but relatively uneventful spring break — thus far.

He said the city focused on making sure parking was readily available for visitors.

“We did what state leaders and county commission have asked and instead of us having all these ‘no parking’ signs we made efforts to mark where we wanted people to park,” Tokajer told The Islander March 27. “That’s been done in pretty much all of our street parking areas outside of the public beach.”

Holmes Beach also created a webpage informing people where they can find parking. The page is at holmesbeachfl.org.

“We’ve been averaging about 36,000 cars a day for about the past couple weeks,” Tokajer said.

With the Easter weekend still to come, Tokajer said St. Patrick’s Day was the busiest day he had seen

since the July 4, 2023, holiday

“Everybody has been keeping it family-friendly and that’s what we want,” the chief said. “When I am driving up and down the beach, I see a lot of families that are enjoying the quiet calm of Holmes Beach.”

Anna Maria is policed by the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office, which at holidays also steps up its enforcement work in Bradenton Beach and Holmes Beach.

The MCSO worked with the island police departments to assign special response teams and mounted patrols and increase marine patrols for the Easter weekend.

MCSO public information officer Melissa Conway, in a March 27 email to The Islander, said the week of March 17-24 deputies arrested 10 people for driving under the influence and one person for boating under the influence.

Manatee public Beach in Holmes Beach is dotted with people, canopies, beach chairs beach towels, volleyball players and a few folks braving the low-70s Gulf of Mexico waters at about 5 p.m. — a little past prime beach time — on Good Friday, March 29. looking south, southeast, the Anna Maria island Bridge on Manatee

Avenue is at the top left in the photo. islander

photo: Jacob Merrifield

Holmes Beach details added parking, roadside improvements

By ryan paice islander reporter

The city of Holmes Beach took one state representative’s recommendation for parking improvements and ran with it.

Despite facing criticism for a lack of parking over recent years, the city has spent the past year highlighting hundreds of available roadside parking spaces following a suggestion from state Rep. Will Robinson Jr., R-Bradenton.

Parking in the municipality has been a controversial issue since 2020, when the city implemented a park-by-permit system on certain residential roadways in response to an overload of beachgoers pushed to the area from beach closures in neighboring counties during the coronavirus pandemic.

The city restricted parking in about 480 spaces along residential roadways and began selling $15 decals to residents and property owners to allow them to park in those spots throughout the day.

City officials stand by the system, which they argue has improved quality of life by reducing parking in residential areas and its side effects, such as litter and noise.

Still, Kevin Van Ostenbridge joined the Manatee County Board of County Commissioners in 2020 and immediately attacked the city’s parking changes for being unfair to mainland residents and visitors.

Robinson sided with Van Ostenbridge and filed House Bill 947 last year to allow the county to build a parking structure on county-owned property at Manatee Public Beach, 4000 Gulf Drive without obtaining a permit from the city.

The bill was signed into law June 23, 2023.

Since the bill’s adoption, the county has presented preliminary plans for a $45 million parking garage that would be funded by tourist taxes and provide 1,5001,700 paid parking spaces in place of the existing 400space parking lot at the beach.

It is unclear when or if plans for the structure will

A “p” on a roadside bollard marks available parking March 27 in Holmes Beach. The city is creating signage to advise motorists of parking spots. islander photo: ryan paice

connected with ropes.

Motorists are supposed to park alongside each roped section between two bollards — not outside — and in the same direction as traffic.

The city also created parking by filling in a drainage ditch along the north side of 51st Street, covering it with sod and adding ropes and bollards to identify eight new roadside parking spaces.

Police Chief Bill Tokajer told The Islander March 27 that the city was in the process of adding new signage to notify motorists to park between roped bollards, as some have parked outside them and expressed confusion upon receiving citations.

The city has created a map of beach accesses and identified roadside parking throughout the municipality, which is available at holmesbeachfl.org.

be realized due to funding limitations and the county’s prioritization of a new downtown Bradenton parking garage.

During spring break last year, the city hosted a ride-along to show Robinson how much roadside parking remained available throughout the municipality despite its changes.

According to Mayor Judy Titsworth, Robinson suggested the city identify parking spaces instead of leaving motorists to infer their location between the spaces defined by “NO PARKING” signs.

A year after Robinson’s visit, the city’s public works department has identified about 95% of the municipality’s available roadside parking within a quarter mile from the beach with bollards, ropes and signage, according to Titsworth.

Code compliance supervisor JT Thomas took The Islander out for a tour March 27 of the city’s parking improvements, which can be found on either side of Gulf Drive.

Each stretch of roadside parking is identified by bollards marked with a circled “P” for parking and

“It’s documented, it’s mapped, and these are real parking spaces,” Titsworth told The Islander March 27. “I think we did really good.”

The chief said, “I am happy with the improvements. I think they’ve done a good job.”

By lisa Neff

The Islander poll

Last week’s question

What would you pay for a parking space on AMi?

16%. $3 an hour.

6%. $6 an hour.

3%. $12 or more an hour.

75%. Nothing.

This week’s question

A. Not in the least.

B. Maybe

C. Yes.

D. What’s home rule?

To answer the poll, go online to islander.org. Q&A 040324

Do state rep. Will robinson Jr. and state Sen. Jim Boyd care about home rule authority on AMi?

BB business owners under scrutiny over lack of permits

By robert Anderson islander reporter

Tensions are rising in Bradenton Beach, where some business owners proceeded with construction and operation of commercial projects without city permits.

Darin Cushing has been chasing down unpermitted issues since becoming the city building official in December 2023.

“I’m trying to get tracks down in front of these moving trains,” Cushing said March 27. “People are doing the work first and then getting cited for it and then applying for the permits.”

He said the result of not following the permitting procedure is a process that ends up taking longer for the applicant while making extra work for city staff.

Most recently, a bar opened at the Bradenton Beach Marina, 402 Church St., owned by developer Shawn Kaleta.

Cushing told The Islander April 1, the buildout requires “a commercial renovation permit along with electrical, plumbing, and mechanical subs.”

He said the application will need to be reviewed by the city building and zoning departments and the fire district. Cushing added, “Then, if approved, we would issue the permit and work could begin.”

Cushing said he learned of the bar March 26 from a Facebook post that was promoting the bar’s opening.

He then walked over to the marina.

“I went to the back and took a look at it and saw that it was definitely there. So I got a hold of the fire marshal and his inspector, and a code enforcement officer and we took a look at it,” he said.

Cushing said he put a cease-and-desist order on the bar.

He said along with permitting, the marina needs engineered drawings showing a separation between the bar and a dry boat storage for fire safety purposes.

He also said the fire marshal observed that the fire suppression system is in alarming condition and had

previously been red tagged for pipe corrosion.

Kaleta, with associates, owns and operates multiple island businesses and is developing the planned Bridge Street Resort. He bought the marina in January 2023.

Cushing said aside from the cease-and-desist order for the marina bar, violations also have been an issue at Kaleta’s Bradenton Beach restaurant, Salt Bar & Table, 2519 Gulf Drive N., for unpermitted outside seating.

He said an application was made for additional outdoor seating, but the permit was never approved because the application lacked a parking plan.

“He never got approval for the outdoor dining” and it’s open and serving customers,” Cushing said.

Meanwhile, Beach to Bay LLC, owned by Kaleta, received notices of violation in February for the unauthorized establishment of paid parking lots in areas zoned for residential use.

Cushing said temporary use permits were applied for after the construction and operation of the payby-plate lots and most were approved March 21 by commissioners.

The Islander reached out March 29 to Kaleta and

his attorney Louis Najmy. Najmy spoke to The Islander but was unable to comment while on vacation.

But Kaleta is not the only one under scrutiny.

Cushing said permit violations also were issued to George and Wendy Kokolis, owners of the Gulf Drive Cafe, 900 Gulf Drive N., for establishment of a paid parking lot across from the cafe — administered by Josh LaRose, owner of the EZ Parking Group.

LaRose administers paid parking interests for multiple businesses in Bradenton Beach, including Kaleta and restaurateur Ed Chiles.

Cushing said he approached LaRose to address the unpermitted lot and told LaRose he must remove vehicles and barricade the lot until a permit application is reviewed and approved by the city.

The Islander reached out to the Kokolises March 29 but as of Islander press time April 1, no response was given.

“We want to work with people. I am absolutely 100% pro-development,” Cushing said. “I like to see improvement and new construction. I am all for it. But it has to be done right, by the rules and laws on the books.”

Coquina Beach Market

OPEN Wednesday, April 3rd

Friday, April 5th 10AM - 4PM

CLOSED Sunday, April 7th

Check our Face Book page for the daily vendor roster, weather cancellations or marked closure days. www.coquinabeachmarket.org

941 -840-0789

https://www.facebook.com/CoquinaBeachMarket

Here is what you will find at our Market: jewelry, candles, fresh lemonade, women’s apparel, custom & creative artwork, freezedried candy, fresh baked goods, pet items, home décor, metal artwork, stuffed turtles, sunglasses, Celtic jewelry, caps, skin care products, water totes & bags, t-shirts, guacamole, windchimes, bracelets, eco friendly bug spray, aloe vera lotions, jerky, fresh coconut drink, licorice, pearl jewelry, toys and MORE.

Music 11AM - 2PM

Wed (Mike Sales) Fri (Chuck Davis)

NEW LOCATION: The Coquina Beach Market is located on the very South end of Anna Maria Island. If driving, take the South entrance to the park before the Longboat Pass bridge. If taking the trolley, walk South from the Café to the end of the island.

By the dock

Bradenton Beach readies bike map

The Bradenton Beach Scenic Highway Bike route map, designed by the ScenicWAVES Committee and funded by the Moose lodge of Anna Maria island, 110 Gulf Drive S., aims to assist cyclists traveling on the Gulf Drive scenic highway. The route detours on northbound Gulf Drive to Fifth Street South, then north along Bay Drive South around the Cortez Bridge, continuing along Gulf Drive. Bradenton Beach commissioners approved the map March 7 at a meeting that launched Florida Biking Month. islander image: Courtesy Bradenton Beach ScenicWAVES

A newly constructed bar along the seawall at the Bradenton Beach Marina, 402 Church St. N., Bradenton Beach, lacks permitting, according to city hall. islander photo: Courtesy Bradenton Beach

Chris Seman of Bradenton caught sight of a dolphin surfacing near a dock on Key royale in Holmes Beach in late March. islander Courtesy photo

Anna Maria in haze on cannabis codes

By ryan paice islander reporter

Anna Maria city commissioners’ work revising cannabis codes could be a slow burn.

Commissioners reached consensus March 28 to renew 30-day extensions for a pair of violators — the North Shore Cafe and Cool Beans AMI — to comply with city code as the commission continues work on potential revisions.

City code currently prohibits the growing, processing, distribution and sale of any plants or products derived from the genus Cannabis, which includes marijuana and hemp.

Conversation about the prohibition began in February, when the municipality denied Holmes Beachbased Edibles N More participation in an arts and crafts show at Roser Memorial Community Church, 512 Pine Ave., due to the business’ CBD and hemp sales.

Later that month, Nathan Geller, co-owner of the North Shore Cafe, 304 Pine Ave., attended a city commission meeting to speak about a notice of violation the cafe received for using hemp products in some food and drinks.

The cafe has four menu items that feature hemp powder, protein and/or seeds, and the business also sells hemp protein powder as an add-on ingredient to some items.

Geller called for the city to explore code changes to better target unwanted products and allow the use of “harmless” products such as hemp powder, protein and seeds, which feature little to no THC or CBD.

The commission held a first reading and hearing March 14 to discuss a proposed ordinance that would prohibit medical marijuana dispensing facilities and retail establishments with more than 10% of their inventories of cannabis products.

The proposed ordinance also would prohibit mobile sales of cannabis products, unless approved as part of a special event permit, and establish a $500 daily fine for violations.

It would not address synthetic marijuana products.

Commissioners had issues with the proposal, such as the questionable enforceability of a 10% inventory limit on cannabis products and the size of the $500 daily fine for violations.

Those issues remained March 28, when the same proposed ordinance was presented to commissioners for discussion on a specific direction for the legislation.

Commissioner Charlie Salem suggested changing the 10% rule to pertain to inventory value, instead of number of items, but added that such a code would still be practically unenforceable.

Commissioners Mark Short, Kathleen MorganJohnson and Gary McMullen agreed the 10% limit was unenforceable, but McMullen took it further.

He said he has a “problem with outlawing something that is plainly within the law,” since medical

marijuana is legal in Florida.

McMullen, a baby boomer, said most people his age are not concerned about cannabis and the city was unnecessarily raising roadblocks without asking for a vote from its citizens.

Commissioner Jonathan Crane said he had nothing against medical marijuana but would be bothered by the additional traffic from short-term purchases it would attract.

City attorney Becky Vose asked commissioners for their thoughts on the proposed ban on mobile sales of cannabis products, except during permitted special events.

Commissioners agreed to keep the provision, since it allowed the board flexibility to effectively approve or deny vendors for special events.

As for the $500 daily fine, Vose said the penalty would be removed from the proposed ordinance and added into a resolution to be presented at the same time of the ordinance’s second reading.

The city has moved many of its fines and fees out of its ordinances and into resolutions to make them easier to change, since new resolutions can be adopted upon first reading and hearing instead of a second, as ordinances require.

Crane, who was a vocal opponent of the $500 daily fine at the March 14 meeting, recommended the city instead implement a sliding scale for penalties.

He said the scale would start at a $25 daily fine that, after 10 days or a determination from a special magistrate upholding a violation, would increase to a $250 daily fine.

Crane said his proposal would give violators an initially small penalty and a chance to appeal. But, if they fail to come into compliance within a reasonable time frame, the city can hit them hard with significant fines.

Short agreed with a sliding scale, stating he had planned to propose a $100 daily fine for five days and increase to a $500 daily fine.

Short said they would table the proposed ordinance until a future meeting so commissioners could continue to consider changes to the penalty for violators and 10% inventory limit on cannabis products.

He also asked Vose to research synthetic marijuana regulations so the ordinance could address such products.

In the meantime, Mayor Dan Murphy said he had issued 30-day extensions for compliance to the two businesses found in violation of the city’s cannabis prohibition, but they were set to expire April 1.

He asked the commission for a consensus, which it reached, to renew the 30-day extensions while they work on code revisions.

There was no public comment.

The commission will meet next at 2 p.m. Thursday, April 11, at city hall, 10005 Gulf Drive.

Directions to attend via Zoom can be found on the city’s website, cityofannamaria.com.

Meetings

By lisa Neff

AnnA MAriA City

April 11, 2 p.m., commission.

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

April 25, 6 p.m., commission.

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

BrAdenton BeACh

April 3, 9:30 a.m., CrA.

April 3, 1 p.m., planning and zoning.

April 4, 6 p.m., commission.

April 17, 1 p.m., ScenicWAVeS.

April 18, noon, commission.

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

holMeS BeACh

April 3, 5 p.m., planning.

April 9, 2 p.m., commission.

April 10, 9 a.m., clean water ad hoc committee.

April 23, 2 p.m., commission.

City hall, 5801 Marina Drive, 941-708-5800, holmesbeachfl. org.

WeSt MAnAtee Fire reSCue

April 16, 6 p.m., commission.

Administration building, 701 63rd St. W., Bradenton, 941-7611555, wmfr.org.

MAnAtee County

April 4, 9 a.m., commission.

April 15, 9 a.m., tourist development council.

Administration building, 1112 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton, 941-748-4501, mymanatee.org.

Please, send meeting notices to calendar@islander.org and news@islander.org.

Now offeri Ng

Perma NeNt Jewelry !

Anna Maria Commissioner Gary McMullen voices criticism March 28 about the city’s prohibition on cannabis products within the municipality. islander photo: ryan paice

It’s a beautiful day

If you’re humming a little of “White Bird,” a 1967 song by It’s A Beautiful Day, you’re not alone.

The song apparently grew out of the band’s situation and the subsequent depression of no money and a long, rainy winter in Seattle. They were yearning to be free.

But when I listened in the 1970s on an old stereo with the albums dropping and turning, I didn’t know.

I was trying to survive divorce, two young kids whose daycare cost more than my child support, and winter in Illinois. My mother, step-father and two young brothers had moved to Florida and, I thought, I could move to the beach and it would be better than my childhood dreams of returning to Virginia.

I found everything I wanted here. A beautiful paradise, a community that embraced us, a quaint idyllic school and, eventually, meaningful work.

Like the band, I had been feeling like a caged bird, and Florida gave me freedom to be me.

I can always hear them singing, repeating the chorus, “White bird must fly or she will die.”

The beautiful blue sky on Easter Sunday and the perfect weather made me think of “White Bird.”

What a day to escape in nature.

The beach must have been glorious. White birds everywhere at sunrise.

Sadly, I missed the Kiwanis Club Easter Sunrise service for the first time in maybe 25 years or more. I had an excused absence.

I also missed Easter brunch and time with my great-grandbaby, which I most regret. She’s at the delightful age of 19 months, trying so very hard to talk and she had a beautiful new Easter dress to show off. I was sure it would be her first Easter sunrise service of many to come. So there’s next year.

I hope you all had a beautiful day.

I hope you were able to dodge traffic and stores and work and doing dishes and laundry.

I hope you at least got your toes wet in the Gulf of Mexico or had salt spray on your face on a boat ride.

I hope you heard birds singing and saw flowers blooming.

Waved at neighbors, friends and strangers.

Maybe you managed to set the table and enjoy a meal with some of those same folks.

And I hope you were able to worship with your family and friends, if that’s your desire, while I managed to work, read and prepare these pages of news and events that I sincerely hope will improve your appreciation of Anna Maria Island.

I wish y’all a beautiful week and all good news.

— Bonner Joy, news@islander.org

Honoring a Cortez matriarch

It was a beautiful day on the Suncoast when a crowd gathered March 16 at the Cortez Cultural Center to honor the late Dr. Mary Frances Fulford Green.

The board designed and approved the plaque in recognition of Mary’s efforts to preserve the culture and history of the village.

Dr. Mary Fulford Green was a descendant of one of the original Cortez families.

own ministry at Sunday school, and she was a prolific writer — she even wrote her own epitaph for her death in 2022, proclaiming “She did all she could.”

Indeed she did.

Valeri DeCastris, Cortez Village Historical Society board

When is enough enough?

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She lived in her family home and is considered the “matriarch of Cortez.”

When my partner Jeffrey and I opened Bunny & Pirates Bazaar in 2017, Cortez was a sleepy Florida town.

Mary was oldest of seven children of Edith and Tink Fulford. She and husband Benjamin C. Green had four children.

She graduated from Bradenton High School as the class valedictorian. She was the first of her family to go to college, graduating from Florida State College for Women — now FSU — in 1946. Mary later earned master’s and doctoral degrees in higher education.

She was a champion for women and a licensed mental health counselor, co-founding HOPE of Manatee for survivors of domestic violence and serving as its director.

Mary was passionate about preserving Cortez, one of the few remaining working fishing villages on the west coast of Florida.

She led protests to prevent a large marina, worked to save the trailer park and keep the post office open and and also against a high bridge.

She helped organize the CVHS and was instrumental in the designation of Cortez on the National Register of Historic Places. She also was instrumental in the creation of FISH and in the purchase of the preserve.

She helped turn the old school into the Florida Maritime Museum. She was a passionate Christian and member of the Church of Christ, where she led her

We leased the property in humble condition and evolved the beer garden over time with the grassroots help of friends and family.

We brought people together around common needs — a place of belonging and friendship — and people loved watching us grow.

There is a responsibility in how we develop and grow as a community. Wiping out all that keeps us grounded and connected under the guise of “it’s just business” pollutes and soils our foundations. It can cause us to forget the fabric of who we are collectively. Yes, change is essential but so are the riches of our history, values and helping neighbors.

Where are the healthy ethical criteria that used to be considered in business, development and area growth? Where are the limits? When is enough enough?

There is a lot of speculation about what happened with our lease.

I reached out to our landlord, Shawn Kaleta, via text over a year ago, asking for a meeting and I had

A tugboat pushes the Summit Venture from the wreckage after the May 9, 1980, crash into the Sunshine Skyway Bridge as a small boat in the center searches for survivors. Thirty-five people

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

OPINIONS CONTiNUED FrOM pAGE 6 dozens of texts with him over the past year scheduling meetings and calls. But our time ran out and then he forced us out.

What does not make sense is not communicating with your tenant. Over a year ago, Bunny & Pirates could have found a path forward.

There are no words for the magic of our space that connects and honors artist and audience. Our salty, humble place lets people let their hair down, grab a music shaker and enjoy life.

We need to pay more attention to what is happening in our communities. Our history is being erased by an elitist transplanted culture. I think we forget what is possible in numbers. We have a voice when we come together.

Elizabeth Shore, Bunny & Pirates Bazaar, Cortez

Editor’s note: This letter was edited due to space limitations. For more about Bunny & Pirates, go to their Facebook page.

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THE BEST NEWS ON ANNA MARIA ISLAND — SINCE 1992

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10, 20, 30 years ago

From the March 31, 1994, issue

• Island and county officials met to discuss details on forming two study committees, one on maintenance of renourished beaches and one on transportation concerns.

• A break-in at the Anchorage Restaurant in Anna Maria resulted in little gain for burglars who pocketed $10 from a small safe and then worked to move a 700-pound safe down two flights of stairs before abandoning it on a landing. The safe was empty.

From the March 31, 2004, issue

• Three people escaped injury when the $4 million yacht they were aboard caught fire a couple of miles offshore of Longboat Pass in the Gulf of Mexico.

• Holmes Beach Mayor Carol Whitmore offered the city of Bradenton “beach quality” sand to nourish the eroded shores along the Palma Sola Causeway.

From the April 2, 2014, issue

• Anna Maria commissioners voted to name the city-owned green space at Bay Boulevard and Pine Avenue the “City Pier Park” but did not allocate funding for improvements.

• Manatee County Sheriff’s deputies stationed in Anna Maria were outfitted with new laser guns to track speeders behind or in front of a patrol vehicle.

— lisa Neff

Your opinion

The Islander welcomes letters of 250 words or less. Email news@islander.org.

died. islander

File photo: Gene page iii

Waterfront walk-bike pathway proposed for Bradenton Beach

By robert Anderson islander reporter

In a bid to enhance public access and connectivity, Bradenton Beach is exploring creating a pathway along its bayside.

The idea was floated March 21, during a city commission meeting, by city attorney Ricinda Perry as she highlighted a recent success in securing state funding for enhancements to the north of the Historic Bridge

RoadWatch

Eyes on the road

• Gulf Drive in Bradenton Beach : Manatee County is working on sewer lines along Gulf Drive South. Motorists can expect lane shifts on Gulf Drive and the closures of some side streets. For the latest, go to amiprojects.io.

• City center in Holmes Beach: Manatee County’s work on a force main project on Holmes Boulevard, Marina Drive and some side streets continues is expected to wind up this spring. For the latest, go to amiprojects.io.

— lisa Neff

Did you know?

Cameras at the Anna Maria Island and Cortez bridges, mainland intersections on Manatee Avenue and Cortez Road and other locations in the county can be found at smarttrafficinfo.org and mymanatee.org.

BB stormwater improvements underway

Street Pier.

The appropriation is earmarked for improving the Gulf Islands Ferry, which currently services passengers from the south side of the pier at the fi nger docks. The Bradenton Area Convention & Visitors Bureau is overseeing the service

Perry said the addition of dockage on the north side of the pier could allow the county to store their vessels in Bradenton Beach and allow the ferry to run more cohesively between the island cities.

Perry said she had reached out to developer Shawn Kaleta about creating a pathway to connect foot traffic between the Cortez Bridge through the Bradenton Beach Marina, which Kaleta owns, then along Bay Drive North and Second Avenue, extending to a path behind the Pines Trailer Park, also owned by Kaleta, before reaching the pier.

The proposed path would facilitate pedestrian and bicycle traffic.

Perry said the concept would involve a publicprivate collaboration.

She said in discussions regarding tourist development funds to finance components of the project, BACVB executive director Elliott Falcione expressed enthusiasm.

Perry also said, “Mr. Kaleta is excited about this partnership and has offered whatever assistance I may need, financial, easements, everything. Mr. Kaleta and I had a meeting with Elliott Falcione about this. Elliott was excited about creating a walkable waterfront path that would marry into the water taxi.”

Woodruff & Sons crews tackle stormwater improvements March 21 at the corner of Avenue B and 23rd Street North in Bradenton Beach. The project is funded with a $2.69 million state grant. Work is to be completed by June 30. islander

Woodruff & Sons works to move excavated earth onto a dump truck near the corner of Avenue B and 23rd Street North in Bradenton Beach. The project to improve the stormwater system will next move to Avenue A, said city attorney ricinda perry, who serves as project manager on the effort. Woodruff is charging the city $1.93 million for the construction. perry said the remainder of the funding went to engineering, construction management and equipment purchases.

Traffic, LBK-BB bridge capture transportation planners’ attention

By lisa Neff islander Editor

Congestion frustration was like a contagion in March.

Traffic congestion came up in discussions on nearly every item before the Sarasota/Manatee Metropolitan Planning Organization during its March 25 meeting in Sarasota.

Congestion was a concern for the board members even before the meeting began at the DoubleTree near the Sarasota Bradenton International Airport.

One MPO board member never arrived.

Another board member acknowledged that while stuck in traffic, she fought the urge to turn back.

Several others briefly shared remarks about traveling an hour to go 12 miles — or fewer — and 60 minutes to leave a barrier island or cross through downtown.

The MPO is updating its congestion management plan, working with the Kittelson & Associates firm on reviewing goals and objectives in a 2020 plan and reworking them for 2024.

The process, said MPO deputy director Ryan Brown, involves analyzing data and performance measures to develop strategies for solving a range of issues.

Brown said congestion during the spring tourist

season is a focus, especially at the island bridges.

Brown updated the MPO board on the study progress but there was no action taken at the March meeting, which also involved discussion and review of several other reports and ongoing research, including:

• A Florida Department of Transportation project, development and environment study for the Longboat Pass Bridge connecting Bradenton Beach and Longboat Key.

The DOT will take another year to complete the PD&E and hold a hearing on its recommended option next spring.

An “evaluation matrix” of four possibilities for the bridge shows too many negatives for the “no build” alternative but positives for three new bridges, including low-level and mid-level bascules and a high fixed bridge.

During the meeting, Manatee County Commissioner Kevin Van Ostenbridge, R-District 3, said the county is concerned the landing for a new bridge would impact a boat ramp and access to a marine rescue building at Coquina Bayside.

“We have a concern where it lands,” he said. “It blocks off our boat ramp.”

• A vision and action plan for the Cortez Road from east of the Cortez Bridge to 301 Boulevard.

The DOT is nearly fi nished with the visioning

stage of the plan, which deals with safe and accessible multimodal opportunities, connectivity, economic vitality and sense of place.

“We want to make Cortez Road a destination rather than a pass-thru corridor,” said DOT community planner Tanya Merkle,

The board, during the meeting, approved the following:

• An amendment to the transportation improvement program that reflects the state’s earmarked funding — $1.4 million — for phase 2 of the Reimagining Pine project in Anna Maria.

• Sarasota and Manatee project priorities for a fiveyear work program through fiscal 2028-29.

The three bridges to AMI continue to be priorities, as is work on a multimodal corridor on Gulf Drive in Bradenton Beach and Holmes Beach.

The priority list also includes five projects in Holmes Beach: engineering a turn lane extension from East Bay Drive to State Road 789/Gulf Drive, a right-turn lane at Key Royale and Marina drives and roundabouts at Manatee Avenue and Gulf Drive, Gulf Drive and East Bay Drive and Manatee Avenue and East Bay Drive.

The next MPO meeting will be at 9 a.m. Monday, May 20, at the DoubleTree by Hilton, 8009 15th St. E., Sarasota.

photos: Courtesy Bradenton Beach

A proposed path, marked in yellow, might send pedestrians and bicycles along the intracoastal Waterway south of the Cortez Bridge in Bradenton Beach. islander Graphic: Courtesy Bradenton Beach

Seventh Street shuffle

A Woodruff & Sons construction crew March 28 continues sewer replacement work along Seventh Street South in Bradenton Beach. The contractor had filled the old sewer system along Gulf Drive and, as of March 21, efforts were underway to create temporary roadways for streets under construction. Eighth Street South will reopen to vehicular traffic this month while construction on Seventh Street South will continue throughout the month. people impacted by street closures can use parking shuttles 8 a.m.-7 p.m. Monday-Friday. The $7.1 million Manatee County project, which commenced in January 2023, involves replacing sewer lines from Sixth Street South to 13th Street South, including along Gulf Drive. Woodruff & Sons is overseeing the project, with an expected fall completion. islander photo: robert Anderson

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 story with contact information to news@islander.org.

Cortez honors village matriarch

By robert Anderson islander reporter

A crowd gathered in mid-March at the Cortez Village Historical Society’s Cortez Cultural Center to honor the late Dr. Mary Frances Fulford Green.

During the celebration March 16, a commemorative plaque was mounted on the building at the CCC as testament to Green’s dedication to preserving the cultural heritage of the fishing village.

Green died June 9, 2022, at age 96.

Cortez Village Historical Society board president Cynthia Rodgers said no one was more passionate about preserving Cortez than Green.

Since 1985, Green led protests to prevent ChrisCraft from building a recreational marina, save the Cortez Trailer Park, keep the Cortez Post Office open and prevent a high bridge on Cortez Road.

Green founded the Cortez Village Historical Society, obtained numerous grants, worked to put Cortez on the National Register of Historic Places and create a protection zone for the village, helped form the Florida Institute for Saltwater Heritage and purchase the land for the 95-acre FISH Preserve, as well as helped transform the 1912 Cortez Schoolhouse into the Florida Maritime Museum and preserve the old Burton Store.

Green also was a champion for women and a licensed mental health counselor, co-founding a program for survivors of domestic violence and serving as its director, as well as serving on a statewide taskforce on the status of women. She founded WINGS to assist previously incarcerated women with employment.

The center is at 11655 Cortez Road W., Cortez. Hours are 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Friday-Saturday.

For more information, contact the CVHS at 941540-0590 or cvhs2016@aol.com.

Mary Fulford Green displays a book she authored about the history of her village Oct. 8, 2021. islander File photo

A plaque placed by the Cortez Village Historical Society at the Cortez Cultural Center commemorates the life work of Cortezian Mary Fulford Green. islander photo: robert Anderson

‘Dragons’ discussion

Compiled by lisa Neff, calendar@islander.org

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT on AMi

Friday, April 5

2 p.m. — Paper crafting, island library, 5701 Marina drive, holmes Beach. information: 941-778-6341.

Saturday, April 6

2 p.m. — Paper crafting, island library, 5701 Marina drive, holmes Beach. information: 941-778-6341.

onGoinG on AMi

throughout April, Kathy lee Patterson exhibit, Artists’ Guild Gallery, 5414 Marina drive, holmes Beach. information: 941-7786694.

oFF AMi

Friday, April 5

6-8 p.m. — Music in the Park concert with Glass onion Beatles Band, riverwalk Pavilion at rossi Park, 452 third Ave. W., Bradenton, Bradenton. information: 941-301-8445.

onGoinG oFF AMi

throughout April, “Venues remembered” exhibit by Marg Williamson, island Gallery and Studios, 456 old Main St., Bradenton. information: 941-778-6648.

through April 28, “dali and the impressionists,” the dali Museum, 1 dali Blvd., St. Petersburg. Fee applies. information: 727-823-3767.

through April 28, the Bishop Museum of Science and nature’s “Bird Photographer of the year,” 201 10th St. W., Bradenton. Fee applies. information: 941-746-4131.

through June 23, “Mountains of the Mind: Scholars’ rocks from China and Beyond” exhibit, the John and Mable ringling Museum of Art, 5401 Bay Shore road, Sarasota. Fee applies. information: 941-360-7390.

through June 30, “yayoi Kusama: A letter to Georgia o’Keeffe,” Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, 1534 Mound St., Sarasota. Fee applies. information: 941-366-5731.

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.

Saturdays, 10:30 a.m., art demos, island Gallery and Studios, 456 old Main St., Bradenton. information: 941-778-6648, islandgalleryandstudios.org.

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.

The island Time Book Club will meet at the island library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, at 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, April 10, to discuss Kelly Barnhill’s “When Women Were Dragons.” publishers Weekly describes the novel as “a deeply felt exploration of feminism in an alternate fantastical history ... This allegory packs a punch.” For more information, call the library at 941-7786341. islander Courtesy photo

SAVe the dAteS

April 18, Manatee Music Series concert with trevor Bystrom and Zion Albert, Bradenton.

MARKETS & SALES

Saturday, April 6

10 a.m.-5 p.m. — Coquina Beach Art and Craft Show, Coquina Beach, Bradenton Beach. information: 231-350-8277.

Sunday, April 7

10 a.m.-5 p.m. — Coquina Beach Art and Craft Show, Coquina Beach, Bradenton Beach. information: 231-350-8277.

onGoinG on AMi

Most Wednesdays, Fridays, Sundays, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Coquina Beach Market, Coquina Beach, Bradenton Beach. information: 941840-0789, coquinabeachmarket.org.

tuesdays, 8:30 a.m.-2 p.m., Anna Maria Farmers Market, City Pier Park, Pine Avenue and Bay Boulevard. Anna Maria. information: 941-708-6130.

onGoinG oFF AMi

Saturdays through May 7, 9 a.m.-2 p.m., Bradenton Market, old Main Street, Bradenton. information: 941-301-8445.

KIDS & FAMILY on AMi

Friday, April 5

10 a.m. — 40 Carrots, island library, 5701 Marina drive, holmes Beach. information: 941-778-6341.

Tuesday, April 9

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,

4131.

third Fridays, teen nights, the Bishop Museum, 201 10th St. W., Bradenton. Fee applies. information: 941-746-4131.

Second Saturdays, Quest for Kids, the Bishop Museum, 201 10th St. W., Bradenton. Fee applies. information: 941-746-4131.

SAVe the dAteS

April 13, de Soto national Memorial de Soto landing, Bradenton.

April 27, de Soto heritage Festival Grand Parade, Bradenton.

CLUBS & COMMUNITY on AMi

Thursday, April 4

1 p.m. — Sunshine Stitchers, island library, 5701 Marina drive, holmes Beach. information: 941-778-6341.

Tuesday, April 9

2 p.m. — rethinking libraries community meeting, island library, 5701 Marina drive, holmes Beach. information: 941-7786341.

Wednesday, April 10

6:30 p.m. — island time Book Club, island library, 5701 Marina drive, holmes Beach. information: 941-778-6341.

onGoinG on AMi

Most Saturdays, 8:30 a.m., Kiwanis Club of Anna Maria island meeting, Bradenton Beach City hall, 107 Gulf drive n., Bradenton Beach. information: 941-778-1383.

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

Most tuesdays, noon, rotary Club of Anna Maria island meeting, Bridge Street Bistro, 111 Gulf drive S., Bradenton Beach. information: 941-718-5583.

onGoinG oFF AMi

third thursdays, 6:30 p.m., through April, Manatee Audubon Society meetings, First united Methodist Church of Palmetto, 330 11th Ave. W., Palmetto. information: manateeaudubon@gmail.com, 941-729-2222.

SAVe the dAteS

April 12, Center of Anna Maria island Senior Adventures outing to St. Petersburg Pier.

April 13, Center of Anna Maria island Beach Cleanup, Anna Maria.

April 13, Save Florida home rule hands Across the Sand, holmes Beach.

April 20, Manatee County Audubon Society earth day Volunteer day, Palmetto.

April 20, Cortez Cultural Center earth day Celebration, Cortez.

April 21, Center of Anna Maria island and Full Send reef habitat Fish Fry Soiree, Anna Maria.

Music

A Hair Day Salon & Spa

LESSONS & LEARNING on AMi

Saturday, April 6

10 a.m.-1 p.m. — Ask a Master Gardener, island library, 5701 Marina drive, holmes Beach. information: 941-778-6341.

onGoinG oFF AMi

Mondays, 1 p.m., longboat Key Paradise Center for healthy living thinking out loud discussions, 546 Bay isles road, longboat Key. information: 941-383-6493.

SPORTS & GAMES

onGoinG on AMi

Most Wednesdays, 1 p.m., mahjong club beginners, island library, 5701 Marina drive, holmes Beach. information: 941-7786341.

Fridays, noon, bridge, roser Memorial Community Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. information: 314-324-5921.

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.

oFF AMi

Wednesday, April 3

1 p.m. — rotary Club of Anna Maria island golf tournament, iMG Academy Golf Club, 4350 el Conquistador Parkway, Bradenton. Fee applies. information: ami-rotary-golf.square.site.

onGoinG oFF AMi

through Sept. 1, Bradenton Marauders homestand games, leCoM Park, 1611 ninth St. W., Bradenton. Fee apples. information: 941-747-3031.

OUTDOORS & NATURE

oFF AMi

Monday, April 8

2 p.m. — Solar eclipse Watch Party at the neSt, robinson Preserve, 10299 ninth Ave. nW, Bradenton. information: 941-7425923, mymanatee.org.

Wednesday, April 10

9 a.m. — Building a Burrow on Gopher tortoise day, robinson Preserve, 1704 99th St. nW, Bradenton. information: 941-742-5923, mymanatee.org.

onGoinG oFF AMi

Saturdays, 9 a.m., Mornings at the neSt, robinson Preserve, 10299 ninth Ave. nW, Bradenton. information: 941-742-5923, mymanatee.org.

CALENDAR NOTES

KeeP the dAteS

April 10, Gopher tortoise day.

April 15, tax day.

April 22, earth day.

April 26, national Arbor day.

May 1-oct. 31, sea turtle nesting season. lights out!

Island happenings

Crafts show set for beach

Blue Ribbon Events will take its market series to Bradenton Beach April 6-7.

The event coordinator will present the Coquina Beach Spring Art & Craft Show 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday-Sunday at the beach, 1300 Gulf Drive S.

The market will feature arts and crafts vendors with a focus on artisan-crafted handmade goods.

An announcement said, “Come out to support artisans and fi nd the perfect new wall art, functional art or tourist take-home treasures.”

For more information, call 231-350-8277 or go online to daniellesblueribbonevents.com.

‘Landing’ reenactment set

The De Soto National Memorial will hold the annual De Soto Landing event 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday, April 13.

The event includes a reenactment of Hernando de Soto’s arrival to Florida, talks, demonstrations and activities.

For more, call the memorial at 941-792-0458.

The memorial is at 8300 De Soto Memorial Highway, Bradenton.

Artists’ Guild Gallery features experimental artist

The Artists’ Guild Gallery in April will feature the work of Kathy Lee Patterson, described in a news release as “an experimental artist who likes to work in different mediums and textures, using palette knives, different edged tools and brushes.”

Patterson’s exhibit, “Reflections,” features a collection of paintings “showing the rich array of beaches and birds found around Anna Maria Island and the Gulf coast.”

The Artists’ Guild of Anna Maria Island will hold a reception for Patterson 5-7 p.m. Friday, April 12, during the monthly Holmes Beach Night Market. The April market will be the last of the 2023-24 season.

The gallery is at 5414 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach.

For more information, call AGAMI at 941-7786694.

Senior group bound for pier

The Senior Adventures group at the Center of Anna Maria Island is crossing the Sunshine Skyway Bridge for a destination this month.

The group will travel Friday, April 12, to the St. Pete Pier in downtown St. Petersburg.

The bus will depart the center at 9:15 a.m. The group will be at the 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

The bus fare is $5.

Registration is required by Tuesday, April 9.

For reservations and more information, call the center at 941-778-1908.

Kiwanis meeting Saturdays

The Kiwanis Club of Anna Maria Island gathers at 8:30 a.m. Saturdays at Bradenton Beach City Hall, 107 Gulf Drive N.

The April 6 meeting will feature remarks by Deb Wartschlager, president of the Friends of the Island Library board.

For more information, call Sandy Haas-Martens at 941-778-1383.

“Marsh” by Kathy lee patterson, the April featured artist at the Artists’ Guild Gallery, 5414 Marina Drive. islander Courtesy photo

Celebrating AMI heritage

26 as

Travels

At Cape Kidnappers

rose Mary patterson of Holmes Beach in February joins her son, James patterson of Tampa, in Napier, New Zealand, where they saw gannets at Cape Kidnappers. islander Courtesy photo

Members of the Anna Maria island privateers smile March 26 alongside Holmes Beach Mayor Judy Titsworth and Anna Maria Mayor Dan Murphy, who were freed from the old city jail after people attending Heritage Day donated more than $1,000 for the privateers to “unshackle” the officeholders.

David rhone, owner of Utah-based lida Art, weaves a basket made of elephant grass March 26 during Heritage Day at the AMiHS museum. Heritage Day is an annual family-friendly celebration of island history at the museum and proceeds raised during the event benefit the historical society. islander photos: ryan paice

AMiHS president Elizabeth Hager, right, speaks to attendees March 26 at Heritage Day while privateer roger “Hoodat” Murphree, center, calls people forward.

penelope Troutman, 5, of reading, pennsylvania, closes her eyes March

Winter Darling, owner of Darling Creations, paints butterfly wings on her face during the Anna Maria island Historical Society’s Heritage Day.

Springing forward

A look at the activities and lessons for “Littles” at the School for Constructive Play preschool at Gloria Dei Lutheran Church in Holmes Beach engaged in to welcome the new season.

AME Calendar

• Saturday, April 6, 6:30 p.m., Marauders game, School District of Manatee County elementary School “Spirit night” fundraiser, leCoM Park, Bradenton. Fee Applies.

• Thursday, April 18, 3:45 p.m., school advisory council meeting, Guy harvey room.

• Saturday, April 27, 6-10 p.m., PTO spring gala, the Center of Anna Maria island, Anna Maria. Fee Applies.

• Friday, May 17, field day.

• Tuesday, May 28, last day for staff.

• Monday, Aug. 12, first day of 2024-25 academic year.

AMe is at 4700 Gulf drive n., holmes Beach.

For more information, call the school at 941-708-5525.

Students pose wearing cutouts created Feb. 27 after a lesson on presidents Day at the School for Constructive play at the Gloria Dei lutheran Church, 6608 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. islander photos: Courtesy SFCp

Tips for turtles

Brothers Cole, 8, and lucas Montgomery, 7, of Morristown, New Jersey, staff a lemonade stand March 29 in Holmes Beach. They were raising money to “adopt a turtle,” according to grandparents Marcia and Dave Noto of Holmes Beach. The Notos wrote, “That is so sweet, considering they thought of it themselves, but the real story is how kind and generous the people of 81st Street are being! it is really heartwarming!” islander Courtesy photo

Tiki & Kitty’s

Tiki and Kitty are leading the way to their favorite shops and boutiques for a spring fling.

T&K love Cat’s Meow, an 8,000 square-foot marketplace! Their vendors offer coastal, cottage, beach, antique, boho, midcentury modern and other home decor styles. They also offer vintage to fine jewelry and vintage albums.

You might want to lace up your skates, as this large, former skating rink has plenty to offer bargain, antique, unique hunters. You don’t want to miss this vast collection of vendors.

We’ll definitely make a stop next door at Blue Flamingo , home to hip and trendy upcycled and repurposed goods, furniture and decor, garden features, candles, jewelry and work by local artisans. They also offer Dixie Belle paints.

We promise you will find treasures aplenty.

Blessed and Distressed is a tastefully designed store — so inviting, you’ll want to pull up a chair

—

vendors. You won’t be disappointed.

Scavengers Marketplace has plenty of vendors to capture your wallet at the Palmetto store, 2100 U.S. 301. There’s always something new to entice you among the vendors’ eclectic collections.

FYI: Scavengers also carries Fusion Paints.

The Vintage Vine Market is a favorite for Tiki and Kitty, who love the fine vintage wares and items with a whimsical twist at this store in historic Old Manatee along the newest section of the Bradenton Riverwalk. The location in the 1910 building oozes charm. And they take select consignments by appointment.

And don’t forget, tell people you meet along the way, “The Islander sent me.”

Wed-Sat

Students isla Northan, left, Skye Gupta and Sutton Bittle paste strips of colored paper onto cut-out Easter eggs March 22, during an activity at the School for Constructive play, Holmes Beach.

Students celebrate spring with a picnic March 20 on the playground at the School for Constructive play at Gloria Dei lutheran Church, 6608 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. The picnic was held on the second day of spring.

Gathering

By lisa Neff

Roser auditioning for musical

Roser Memorial Community Church will audition children for roles in a Christian musical — “Noah’s Rockin’ Ark Adventure” — at 5:30 p.m. Friday, April 5.

Parts are available for kids ages 7-13, including speaking roles and lots of animal roles.

But mostly, Roser invites kids to “just sing and have fun.”

Five weeks of rehearsals will follow the auditions to prepare for a performance at 7 p.m. Friday, May 10, at the church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria.

For more information, contact director of music ministries Craig Ramberger at craig@roserchurch.com or 941-778-0414.

Gloria Dei collects for pantry

Gloria Dei Lutheran Church continues to work to stock local food pantries and invites people to drop off nonperishable food items for its “First Sunday Food Collection” April 7.

“Over the next week, think about picking up a few extra shelf-stable pantry items while doing your shopping and bring with you next week to help aid in helping those facing hunger in our area,” the church encouraged in its recent bulletin.

Gloria Dei is at 6608 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach.

For more information, call the church at 941-7781813.

Tidings

Wednesday, April 3

11:30 a.m. — Just older youth club hosts island Playreaders, roser Memorial Community Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. info: 941-778-0414.

Sunday, April 7

8:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. — 40th anniversary of first Mass in current church building, St. Bernard Catholic Church, 248 S. harbor drive, holmes Beach. info: 941-778-4769.

SAVe the dAteS

April 22, temple Beth israel Community Family Passover Seder, longboat Key.

May 5, St. Bernard first Communion Mass.

onGoinG on AMi

CrossPointe Fellowship, 8605 Gulf drive, holmes Beach. info: 941-778-0719, crosspointefellowship.church.

Worship: Sundays, 9 a.m.

The Kiwanis Club of AMI Easter Sunrise Service

The sun rises over the Anna Maria Beach Cafe building fronting the altar and cross during the sermon by the rev. Stephen King for the 59th annual Kiwanis Club of Anna Maria island Easter Sunrise Service. The crowd was estimated at 4,500-5,000 by Holmes Beach police Chief Bill Tokajer. islander

worth

Featured at the 59th annual Easter service, March 31, are the rev. Dr. Dirk rodgers of roser Church, left; the rev. Matthew Grunfeld of Church of Annunciation’ Matthew Nowicki, director of faith formation, St. Bernard Church; the rev. Stephen King of Harvey Church; Morgan Bryant, vocalist; and Sandy Haas-Martens of the Kiwanis Club of Anna Maria island. islander

ongoing: Wednesdays, 7 a.m., men’s Bible meeting; Wednesdays through May 15, 6 p.m., Wednesday night Blast supper and 6:30 p.m. Blast; 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, 8 a.m. and 10:15 a.m.

ongoing: Most Wednesdays, 8 a.m., men’s breakfast; Mondays, 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, thursdays, 9:30 a.m., roserrobics; tuesdays, 2 p.m., women’s book study; first and third Wednesdays, 11:30 a.m., Just older youth group; select Wednesdays through May 22, 9:30 a.m., Mom’s Cafe; Wednesdays, 11:30 a.m., holy yoga. 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.

photo: Dara Caudill

photo: Janie Ash-

GoodDeeds

By lisa Neff

Assistance sought on AMI

• The Islander seeks donations on behalf of Holmes Beach Commissioner Pat Morton, injured when struck by a truck while walking to his workplace. Information: “Please, help — Unexpected Medical and Care Costs” on gofundme.com.

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

Obituary

Daniel Naeher

Daniel Naeher, 60, of Bradenton and formerly of Holmes Beach, died March 28.

He was born in Ipswich, Massachusetts, moved to Holmes Beach in 1968 and moved to Bradenton in 2018.

A celebration of life will be 4-8 p.m. Sunday, April 7, at a family residence. People planning to attend can call 252-876-2285 for the address. Mr. Naeher is survived by wife Tracy Thomas; sisters Deborah Bradley of Bradenton and Denise Harrington of Bradenton; brothers Donald of Sarasota, Douglas of Holmes Beach, David of Bradenton and

Vivian Ashford Van Horne

Vivian Ashford Van Horne, 95, born in Watkinsville, Georgia, and a longtime resident of Holmes Beach, died Jan. 10.

She met and married her husband, William J. Van Horne, while working in France during the Korean War.

She traveled the world and took family with her when possible. The couple returned to the Southeast and started a business, The Fun Company, which for 20 years staged employee picnics for companies around the United States. Five years after her husband’s death, Mrs. Van Horne sold the company and took to traveling the world in earnest. She touched many lives and will be fondly remembered by all. She deeply loved and cared for her family, and lived a life that brought them together, even though them lived in different parts of the world.

Mrs. Van Horne is survived by her three children, 10 grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.

At your service Obituaries are offered as a free service to residents and families of residents, as well as to people with ties to AMI. Email news@islander.org.

TIDINGS CONTiNUED FrOM pAGE 14

ongoing: Wednesdays, 10 a.m., women’s Bible study; Mondays, 9 a.m., men’s Bible study; tuesdays, 1:30 p.m., bridge club. Longboat Island Chapel, 6200 Gulf of Mexico drive, longboat Key. info: 941-383-6491, longboatislandchapel.org.

Worship: Sundays, 10 a.m.

ongoing: Mondays, 4 p.m., choir practice.

Temple Beth Israel, 567 Bay isles road, longboat Key. info: 941-383-3428.

Worship: Fridays, Shabbat, 5:30 p.m.; Saturdays, 10 a.m. Editor’s note: Holidays and other observances might require changes to regularly scheduled events.

Get liSted, ChAnGe liStinGS Send listings to calendar@islander.org.

Kids sift sand at the Sandbar for 5K colored eggs

The annual Easter Egg Hunt and Bonnet Contest March 30 at the Sandbar restaurant brings kids to sift the sands, filling their “BYOB” buckets and taking part in games, raffles, contests, crafts after enjoying light bites and refreshments.

Online Giving Challenge set for April 9-10

A 24-hour race to bank some bucks begins at noon April 9 for area nonprofits.

The annual Giving Challenge, presented by the Community Foundation of Sarasota County in collaboration with the Patterson Foundation, will take place noon-noon April 9-10 at givingchallenge.org.

Some island- and Cortez-based nonprofits and organizations that work on AMI generate money with the Giving Challenge, which involves the foundation matching donations dollar for dollar up to $100 per contributor during the 24 hours.

Local groups signed up for the Giving Challenge as of March 27 included the Center of Anna

“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.

her son

Mas-

Maria Island, Roser Church Food Pantry, Anna Maria Island Garden Club, Anna Maria Island Historical Society, Artists’ Guild of Anna Maria Island, Wildlife Inc., Anna Maria Island Concert Chorus and Orchestra, Friends of the Florida Maritime Museum, Florida Institute for Saltwater Heritage, Cortez Village Historical Society and Rotary Club of AMI Foundation.

To find organizations to support, go online to givingchallenge.org.

— lisa Neff

CENTEr lEFT: Kids Easter Bonnet winners are Alexandra Kellogg, lucy and Jackie Crist. Adults are lorrie Terrinova, luann Marshall, Shaun Templeton and, not pictured, lisa Meadows. Judges were Brian Seymour, Christin Chiles and Cory Wright. riGHT: Host and Sandbar owner Ed Chiles, left, his wife Tina, Chiles’ daughter Christin,

Chiles, and husband Blake

ters. FAr lEFT: Finn Bryant, 6, of Holmes Beach, looks over Easter egg booty. lEFT: raffle basket winners rosanny and Gavin Hoffman of lakewood ranch.

islander photos: Dara Caudill / island photography

Dana of Valrico. Naeher

Bradenton man arrested by HBPD for

DUI, resisting

Holmes Beach police arrested Bradenton resident Luis Garcia Mazareigo, 21, March 18, on a seconddegree misdemeanor for allegedly driving under the influence of alcohol.

Mazareigo also is accused of three misdemeanors for allegedly resisting police without violence, driving while his license was suspended and driving without a valid driver’s license.

He was taken to the Manatee County jail, where he was released March 20 after posting $6,005 bond.

If convicted, punishment for a first-degree misdemeanor includes up to one year in jail, one year of probation and a fine of up to $1,000.

Punishment for a second-degree misdemeanor includes up to 60 days in jail and a fine of up to $500.

An arraignment will be at 8:55 a.m. Thursday, April 18, at the Manatee County Judicial Center, 1051 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton.

— ryan Paice

Palmetto resident arrested on DUI charge in Holmes Beach

Holmes Beach police arrested Palmetto resident David Lyons, 43, March 23 on a second-degree misdemeanor for allegedly driving under the influence of alcohol.

An officer saw a motorist around 8:33 p.m. driving south on Gulf Drive with a flat front tire and conducted a traffic stop.

Lyons told the officer he was drunk and that he had a firearm in his vehicle, which police secured along with 10 rounds of ammunition.

Police asked Lyons to perform field sobriety exercises but he refused. He also refused to provide breath samples.

Lyons was arrested and taken to the Manatee County jail, where he was released March 24 after posting $500 bond.

If convicted, punishment for a second-degree misdemeanor includes up to 60 days in jail and a fine of up to $500.

An arraignment will be at 8:55 a.m. Thursday, April 25, at the Manatee County Judicial Center.

— ryan Paice

Streetlife By

robert Anderson and ryan Paice

Island police reports

Anna Maria

No new reports.

The Manatee County Sheriff’s Office polices Anna Maria.

Bradenton Beach

March 24, 1801 Gulf Drive N., Runaway Bay, larceny. A complainant said someone took a bicycle from under a stairway. A Bradenton Beach police officer took a description of the bicycle and filed a report.

The BBPD polices Bradenton Beach.

Cortez

No new reports.

The MCSO polices Cortez.

Holmes Beach

March 23, 3900 block of Gulf Drive, disturbance/ road rage. A Holmes Beach police officer responded to reports that someone had thrown an egg at a vehicle, which led to an angry exchange. A woman was stopped at Manatee Avenue and Gulf Drive when her driver’s door was struck with the egg. She did not see who threw the egg, but chased the only other motorist in the vicinity, who had been stopped by Bradenton Beach police. A passenger in the other vehicle admitted to throwing the egg. An officer warned the egg thrower.

Love the beach

Artist sharon Weed poses March 22 with her painting of a woman in a beach chair at island Vacation Properties office, 3001 gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. Weed told the lslander March 27 that she was contacted by island Vacations Properties through thumbtack, an online search app to find painters and carpenters. After getting a few ideas from the company, Weed produced the mural design. she has worked on 10 murals in Manatee County and has a degree in sign painting. For more information, contact Weed at 754-224-9212 or go online to themotherweed.com. islander

March 23, 3800 block of East Bay Drive, stolen bicycles. A man said two bikes secured with locks went missing while the riders were at a bar. One bike was found the next day.

March 24, 300 block of 63rd Street, domestic battery. Officers responded to a caller reporting they saw someone drag another person into a house. One officer spoke with a man who said he had gotten into an argument with his brother that escalated into a physical altercation. An officer arrested the brother who reportedly began the physical altercation.

March 24, Seaside Beach House, 102 68th St., criminal mischief. A complainant said she had accidentally parked in a reserved space at her rental unit and then found the vehicle was keyed. The officer documented the damage.

March 24, Mobil, 3015 Gulf Drive, missing person/suspicious circumstance. An officer met with three women who reported their friend as a missing person. They said she was intoxicated and had not been seen after entering the gas station. A resident called the police to report they had found the woman in a parking lot of the Grassy Point Preserve. The woman said she had heard a kid crying in the park and went to help but hurt her bare feet on shell paths. The officer called for PleAse, see streetlife, Next PAge

Photo: Courtesy Holmes Beach Code enforcement

Keep on going

A “no parking” sign erected March 22 by the city of Bradenton Beach stands at a corner lot on third street North and Highland Avenue. the owner, restaurateur ed Chiles, sought a temporary use permit for paid parking but the city commission denied the application March 21 due to concerns about evacuation routes and safety, as well as objections from neighbors. Additionally, parking in the rights of way at the lot was seen as a safety issue, leading commissioners to vote to install “no parking” signage. islander Photo: robert Anderson

streetlife FrOM PAge 16

Manatee County Emergency Medical Services, which transported the woman to the HCA Florida Blake Hospital in Bradenton.

March 25, Manatee Public Beach, 4000 Gulf Drive, trespass. An offi cer found a man lying on a bus bench around 8:45 p.m. and recognized him as a person who had been trespassed from the property. The officer woke the man and placed him under arrest for trespassing.

March 26, HBPD, 5801 Marina Drive, potential fraud. A woman reported suspicious activity involving a reservation for a rental property. She said a man booked a reservation but provided a check for more than the stated cost. She said he asked her to return the excess funds by check. She found that suspicious and stopped speaking with the man, then reported the matter to the police. She provided the man’s check to an officer, who placed it in storage.

HBPD polices Holmes Beach.

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

Island watch

In

Stuck at the pier

A sailboat awaits removal March 22 after colliding with the Historic Bridge street Pier. Bradenton Beach police Chief John Cosby said three liveaboard vessels and one derelict vessel in the anchorage area broke free during a storm and winds sent the boats into the pier. He said two owners surrendered boats for salvage. One vessel was returned undamaged to its owner. the derelict vessel was moved. Cosby said no damage to the pier was reported. islander

ton Beach

Filling in holes in Holmes Beach

Anna Brennan, 5, left, and her brother, William, 7, of Cleveland, give thumbs up March 27 alongside Holmes Beach code compliance supervisor Jt thomas after they filled in a hole on the beach. Holes in the sand can impede nesting and hatchling sea turtles, as well as pose a danger to people. islander

Photo: Courtesy City of Braden-

Photo: ryan Paice

Anna Maria exploring allowances for leashed dogs in parks

By ryan Paice islander reporter

Man’s best friend soon might be allowed in Anna Maria’s public parks.

City commissioners reached consensus March 28 to move forward with a proposed ordinance that would allow people to walk leashed dogs at certain public parks, such as City Pier Park, 103 N. Bay Blvd.

The new allowance for leashed dogs would not apply to Bayfront Park, 316 N. Bay Blvd., which is leased to the county.

Municipal code currently prohibits dogs and other domestic animals in parks and certain public spaces.

Last October, the city’s planning and zoning board requested the commission amend the code to allow dogs on leashes in municipal parks.

Commissioners directed city staff to draft potential code changes to establish the practice, which city attorney Becky Vose presented at the March 28 meeting.

The proposed ordinance would allow dogs on leashes “in parks that are not on the beach or which have coastal barrier sand dunes, as long as no special event is occurring at such park, and as long as the person(s) accompanying such dog(s) shall promptly remove any feces deposited by such dog(s) and properly dispose of such feces.”

However, Commission Chair Mark Short said he did not believe leashed dogs should be prohibited from

parks where special events are being held. He suggested removing “as long as no special event is occurring at such park” from the proposed ordinance.

Commissioner Gary McMullen agreed and, during public comment, resident John Kolojeski also spoke in support of allowing people to walk leashed dogs at parks during special events.

Commissioner Jonathan Crane voiced concern with allowing dogs at some of the city’s larger events, where too many dogs could cause issues.

He said too many dogs in one area could lead them to get rowdy, which concerned him due to the city’s elderly population.

Crane added that the city should add sanitation stations, with waste bags and trash bins, at municipal parks to ensure they stayed clean if dogwalkers forgot their own supplies.

Mayor Dan Murphy suggested amending the proposed ordinance so the commission could pick and choose the special events when people would be allowed to walk their leashed dogs.

Commissioners reached consensus to move forward with the proposed ordinance with Murphy’s suggested changes.

The commission will meet next at 2 p.m. Thursday, April 11, at city hall, 10005 Gulf Drive.

Directions to attend via Zoom can be found on the city’s website, cityofannamaria.com.

Charter review committee completes task in Anna Maria

By ryan Paice islander reporter

Anna Maria’s Charter Review Committee has met for the last time and its proposed changes are headed to a presentation.

CRC members unanimously voted during their March 28 to approve six potential changes to the charter for city commission consideration.

The city must review its charter every five years by appointing a board of volunteers to review the document and present potential amendments.

In addition to general cleanup and removal of gendered terms throughout the charter, this year’s proposed charter amendments include:

• Creating a vision statement to establish municipal home rule as a protected value;

• Establishing a 37-foot-tall height limit measured from the crown of the road to the highest point of structures within city limits;

• Revising a section regarding qualifications for city officials to require that the mayor and city commissioners maintain residence within the city through-

out their terms of office;

• Revising a section on procedure to require special meetings to be called by the mayor, city commission chair or a majority of commissioners, instead of allowing any commissioner to call for a special meeting;

• Revising a section on actions to require a unanimous vote by sitting city commissioners to convey and lease city-owned property for a term of five years or more;

• Adding a formal definition for “officer.”

There was no public comment.

CRC members will present the board’s proposed changes to the commission for consideration at 2 p.m. Thursday, April 11, also at city hall.

Directions to attend via Zoom can be found on the city’s website, cityofannamaria.com.

If approved by city commissioners, the CRC’s proposed charter amendments will be added to general election ballots to be voted on as initiatives, leaving the final say to the city’s electorate.

Anna Maria resident John Kolojeski speaks March 28 in support of a proposed ordinance that would allow people to walk leashed dogs in public parks, including City Pier Park, 103 N. Bay Blvd. islander

Photo: ryan Paice

HB exploring pickleball court expansion

By ryan Paice

islander reporter

A third pickleball court might be added to Holmes Beach city field.

City commissioners reached consensus March 26 to direct staff to explore options for the addition of another pickleball court at city field, between 59th Street, Flotilla Drive and 62nd Street.

City engineer and public works superintendent Sage Kamiya recommended the addition for fiscal 2024-25, which will begin Oct. 1.

Kamiya proposed adding a third court, aligned east-west, to the north of the two existing courts at city field, as well as expanding fencing for the area.

He projected the addition would cost about $45,000 and require elimination of three parking spaces.

Nevertheless, Kamiya said there was plenty of available parking for city field along the west side of Flotilla Drive.

“It doesn’t seem like that would be an issue,” Kamiya said.

Mayor Judy Titsworth said adding a third court would please pickleball players, but also tennis players, too. She said the addition might keep pickleball players off the tennis courts to the north that are marked for pickleball play as well.

During public comment, retired tennis coach James Williams recommended against aligning a new pickleball court east-west since it would make playing on it difficult while the sun is rising and setting.

“That’d be a very bad decision,” Williams said.

Kamiya said a new court could be rotated and aligned north-south instead, while eliminating about four parking spaces.

Commissioner Pat Morton warned them from eliminating too much parking at the location, since it is often used by local tours in addition to parkgoers.

Kamiya said that, with the commission’s consensus to move forward with the item, he would pursue quotes for such work and return during the fiscal 2024-25 budget process to discuss the possibility in greater detail.

Keeping watch

Bball on break

leFt: elias subel, 8, of Columbus, Ohio, takes a shot March 19 over his father, Mark, while playing basketball on a court at Holmes Beach city field, between 59th street, Flotilla Drive and 62nd street. ABOVe:

ezra subel, 6, left, launches a basketball March 19 toward the hoop as his older brother, elias, 8, and father, Mark, right, go for a rebound. islander Photos: ryan Paice

Manatee County Public safety lifeguard i Mark Mol uses binoculars March 27 to survey beachgoers from a tower at Manatee Public Beach, 4000 gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, where droves of people were sunning and swimming. islander Photo: robyn Murrell

Ironman hits the Jackpot, horseshoe pitchers and golfers play on

By Kevin P. Cassidy islander reporter

Ironman athlete and island resident Sandy Meneley, who has graced these pages more than a few times, has some company on the island and he lives in the same condominium complex. He is Doug Herr and not only is he an ironman athlete, he also participates in ultra running events. Ultra running events are longer than a traditional marathon, which is 26.2 miles in distance. There are timed Ultra running events where runners cover as many miles as possible in predetermined times. Timed events in the Jackpot Ultras are six, 12, 24 and 48 hours. They also have distance events, which are 50and 100-mile races with time limits.

Herr participated in the Jackpot Ultras 100-mile race in Las Vegas Feb. 15-17.

A 100-mile ultra race course has a time limit of 30 hours and Herr completed the 100 miles in 26:52 hours, which gave him his “buckle.”

Herr mentioned that most participants in the 100mile ultra will state, “I just want to get my buckle.”

His most recent ironman triathlon — 2.4 miles swim, 112 mile bike ride and a 26.2 mile run — was October 2023, when he traveled to Cascais, Portugal, and completed the triathlon in 15:03 hours. That was good enough for a seventh place finish in his 65-69 age group.

When asked what got him into ironman triathlons and ultra running events, Herr said he enjoyed the challenge of pushing forward when your body is telling you this would be a good time to rest.

He entered his first triathlon in 1982. He entered and finished his first ironman triathlon in 1984 in Kona, Hawaii.

He read about ultra-running in the 1990s. In 2020, he completed a 62-mile trail race in Pennsylvania and

longer runs on back-to-back days. He starts with 16-mile runs and increases that to 20, then 25 and finishing with 30-mile runs on consecutive days.

Training for an ironman involves base level fitness for strength in the three disciplines, while also including speed and endurance training.

Herr and his wife, Jane Maliszewski, live in Dublin, Ohio, but after visiting Anna Maria Island in March 2022, they decided to buy in Holmes Beach. With a place to stay whenever they want, they visited for several times over five-six months in 2022-23. This season, they came down in Dececmber 2023 for a five-month stay. When asked if he was considering a move to become a full-time islander, Herr was noncommittal.

Herr is a retired major from the U.S. Army and his wife is a retired colonel from the Army.

Congratulations to Herr for his accomplishments from The Islander.

Horseshoe news

Three teams advanced to the playoffs after forging 3-0 pool-play records during March 27 horseshoe action at the Anna Maria City Hall pits. The fatherand-son team of Dom and Dom Livedoti drew the bye and watched as Bob Lee and Tom Skoloda defeated Rod Bussey and Steve Kriebel 22-12. Lee and Skoloda cruised into the winner’s circle with a 21-2 victory over the Livedotis.

was amazed to see the 100-mile racers heading out for their last 38-mile loop as he was finishing up his race at nearly 9 p.m.

Though he still thought it was kind of crazy, he became more curious to see if he could actually finish one and, in June 2023, he did.

When asked about his training regimen, he said training for ironman and ultras is completely different.

For the 100-mile races, he tries to do longer and

Three teams also advanced from pool play during the March 30 games, with the bye going to Herb Schutt and Tom Farrington. Rod Bussey and Gary Howcroft advanced to the finals with a 23-8 victory over Bob Lee and Bob Baker. Schutt and Farrington earned the day’s bragging rights with a 21-3 victory over Bussey and Howcroft.

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.

Key Royale news

Golf action at the Key Royale Club in Holmes Beach got started March 25 with the men’s modifiedStableford system match. Bill Sweeney was on fire, carding a plus-7 — a score seven points above his average. Two points back in second place were Herb Clauhs and Jim Hitchen at plus-5.

The women switched things up for their Tuesday morning game, playing a handicap scramble March 26, that saw the team of Peggy Cummings, Janet Razze and Jana Samuels combine on an 8-under-par 24 for the win. The team of Leigh Brattain, Debbie DuVernay, Nina McSparren and Jan Turner finished in second with a 7-under-par 25.

The women hosted their fourth annual membermember tournament March 27 in three flights, where, challenged by gusty winds, the women shot long and carded some terrific scores.

Debi Wohlers and Lori Waggoner won the blue flight with a score of 27.1, just ahead of second-place finish-

Cassidy

PleAse, see sports, Next PAge

Bob lee, left, and tom skoloda teamed up to win the March 27 horseshoe games, while Herb schutt and tom Farrington won the March 30 games.

islander Photo: Courtesy AMi Pitchers

Doug Herr shows off his “Buckle,” after completing the 100-mile race in the Jackpot Ultras in las Vegas over the Feb. 15-17 weekend. islander Photo: Courtesy Jane Maliszewski

April offers fishing opportunities for all AMI-area anglers

By Capt. Danny stasny islander reporter

After weeks of strong winds and frequent cold fronts, Anna Maria Island anglers are awaiting a consistent weather pattern and some exceptional April fishing.

April can be one of the best months to fish in west central Florida.

Whether you’re a flats guy or you prefer fishing in the Gulf of Mexico, April has something to offer every angler.

Starting with the inshore bite, spotted seatrout should be congregating on most of the deeper grass flats, especially the entrances to the smaller bays, such as Terra Ceia, Miguel and Sarasota.

Targeting fish with live baits — shiners or pinfish — is effective but, if you’re feeling sporty, break out the artificials.

MirrOlure offers some great examples to try out. The 84 MR topwater plug is deadly for trout, especially large gator trout lurking on the shallow grass flats.

If you’re fishing slightly deeper flats, in depths of 4-6 feet, try the MirrOdine. This suspending bait will not disappoint.

Other action on the inshore bite should include snook and redfish. Both can be found along mangrove edges and oyster bars as they hunt for smaller bait fish, shrimp and crabs.

Using free-lined live shiners is best in these scenarios, but don’t dismiss using a fresh-cut piece of pinfish, especially if you’re targeting redfish. Sometimes the reds get lazy as they’re relaxing under the shade of the mangroves and that cut piece of pinfish is just what it takes to lure them to the hook.

Fishing deeper waters in Tampa Bay can provide good inshore action in April. Patrolling the Sunshine Skyway bridge and the shipping channel towards Egmont key can present opportunities of cobia as well as other migratory fish, including Spanish mackerel and kingfish. You might also find jack crevalle, ladystasny

sports FrOM PAge 20

ers Jenny Huibers and Ann Hackinson, who shot 27.6. Barb Rinckey and Pam Lowry won the orange flight with a net score of 24, just edging Cate Foy and Debbie DuVernay at 24.1. Billie Jean Pinson and Annette Hall won the green flight in a playoff over Judy Menchek and Jane Perkins with a net score of 24.

Alan livingston, visiting Anna Maria island from everett, Washington, shows off a small cobia he caught and released March 31 while fishing with his childhood friend, Jacob Merrifield — the islander’s drone photographer.

fish and bluefish in these areas.

And soon will come tarpon.

Moving into the Gulf of Mexico can lead to endless opportunities as the water temps rise. Permit are a sought-after species to target in April around the offshore wrecks and reefs.

Casting live crabs in these areas can get you connected with these elusive fish. While on the reefs, you might also encounter kingfish, barracuda and cobia along with plenty of sharks.

Getting off the wrecks and reefs and changing to hard bottom areas also has its benefits. Red and gag grouper should be firing off as well as numerous vari-

Laura Purcell won the closest-to-the-line contest on No. five and Cate Foy won closest-to-the-pin on No. 8. Meredith Slavin won the longest-putt contest on the third hole.

Cocktails, including a wine tasting, followed the tournament action.

Forty Key royale Club women pose on the club patio following their fourth annual women’s membermember golf tournament March 27. islander

Photo: Courtesy KrC

eties of snapper, including lane, vermilion, mangrove and yellowtail.

When going offshore, carry an assortment of live and frozen baits so you’re prepared for whatever comes along.

Lastly, fishing the offshore springs should lead to action on amberjack and African pompano. Both of these tackle-busters can wear out even the most experienced angler.

On my Just Reel charters, I’m fishing sheltered areas out of the winds.

Spotted seatrout have been “trip savers,” as limits are being caught most days. Free-lined shiners with the addition of a split shot to the rig work best.

Targeting snook is going well most days, although days after the cold fronts are challenging. While targeting snook, I’m picking up some slot-size reds. but these are bonus fish as they are being caught at random.

Venturing into the Gulf of Mexico is providing action on macks, kingfish and sharks, although gaining access to the Gulf is difficult due to windy and choppy surf.

Capt. Johnny Mattay of Anna Maria Charters says fishing is good most days despite the winds.

While inshore, Mattay is putting clients on snook, redfish and spotted seatrout. For the snook and reds, fishing mangrove shorelines or oyster bars is providing the best action.

Casting free-lined live shiners against the roots of the mangroves or along oyster bars triggers the bite.

On deeper grass flats, the spotted seatrout are cooperating during incoming tides. Mixed in with the trout bite are jack crevalle, ladyfish and mackerel. Again, free-lined live shiners work well as bait.

When fishing deep grass flats, Mattay is adding a split shot to the rig to get the bait down in the water column.

On days when the winds are from the east, Mattay is sneaking into the Gulf and targeting kingfish, macks, bluefish and sharks. This bite is occurring within a mile of the shore.

Capt. David White of Anna Maria Charters is enjoying targeting migratory species on days when the Gulf is calm. In depths of 20-30 feet, White is putting clients into the action on kingfish, mackerel, bonita and sharks.

Anchoring and chumming or slow trolling is working for the kings and bonita. As for the sharks, a freshcut piece of bonita cast out while at anchor is leading to some good action on blacktips.

White says venturing offshore in the Gulf is yielding action, especially for reef fish. Species such as red grouper and mangrove snapper are the most prevalent catches and are readily taking live and frozen bait offerings from his anglers.

Finally, moving to the flats of Tampa Bay and its adjacent waters to the south, White is finding action on snook, redfish and spotted seatrout.

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

AM officials agree: Keep parking on proposed ped-bike path

By ryan Paice islander reporter

The proposed extension of a multiuse path along Gulf Drive in Anna Maria had some business owners concerned about the elimination of parking.

But a recent vote eased those concerns.

City commissioners voted 4-1 March 28 to move forward with plans to extend a multiuse path along Gulf Drive from its current terminus at Willow Avenue to Magnolia Avenue without eliminating parking.

Commissioner Gary McMullen voted “no,” saying he did not want to establish such a restriction for potential improvements.

The city requested a $250,000 state appropriation to extend the path and the request made it into the state’s proposed $117.46 billion budget for fiscal 2024-25.

By now, only Gov. Ron DeSantis has the power to line-item veto the appropriation request.

Paul Foster, co-owner of Ginny’s and Jane E’s Cafe and Gift Store, 9807 Gulf Drive, became con-

Paul Foster, co-owner of ginny and Jane e’s Cafe and gift store, 9807 gulf Drive, Anna Maria, speaks March 28 at a city commission meeting about the city’s plans to extend a multiuse path along gulf Drive from Willow Avenue to Magnolia Avenue. islander

cerned with the potential loss of parking along the stretch, which runs into the city’s commercial district and in front of his business.

Foster filed a petition the week of March 18 with DeSantis, state Rep. Will Robinson Jr., R-Bradenton, state Sen. Jim Boyd, R-Bradenton, and Manatee County Commissioner Kevin Van Ostenbridge, R-District 3.

The petition argued that the creation of a multiuse path along the stretch would necessitate the elimination of parallel parking in the area and hurt local businesses.

It asked DeSantis to use his line-item veto authority to put a stop to the project funding.

The petition was signed by Foster and the owners of six businesses, including The Porch Restaurant, Robinhood Rentals, Snips Hair, Harry’s Grill, AMI Beach Hut and Body & Sol Spa and Wellness, as well as one property owner.

Mayor Dan Murphy said March 28 that the city had no intent to eliminate parking as part of the project

and would have appreciated a call from Foster so he could have clarified the city’s stance on the issue.

“The intent never was, nor is it now, to destroy the parking,” Murphy said. “I would aggressively fight the elimination of any parking. … We don’t have enough.”

He listed three potential options for extending the path without reducing parking:

• Run the path on the west side of the street, where there would be space for it;

• Move Gulf Drive west to open up space on the east side for parking and the path;

• Moving the parallel parking on the east side of the street to the west side to open space for a path on the east side.

Murphy asked the commission for a consensus or vote to move forward with plans to extend the path without eliminating parking.

Commission Chair Mark Short echoed Murphy’s sentiment, “The last thing we need is to be losing more parking spots, especially in the commercial side of our city.”

McMullen was the commission’s only vote against the elimination of parking for the new path.

During public comment, Foster apologized to Murphy and the commission for taking them off guard.

He said he felt “blindsided” when he saw news of the appropriation and emphasized the negative impact of potentially losing parallel parking along the stretch.

Nevertheless, Foster said he felt better about the matter following the commission’s vote to rule out parking reductions as part of the project.

Foster wrote in a March 30 text message to The Islander that he withdrew the petition.

John Cagnina, the property owner who signed Foster’s petition, still spoke against extending the multiuse path and encouraged the city to redirect the pedestrians and bicyclists off Gulf Drive.

Direct: 941.713.5458

Email: Shellie.Young@PremierSIR.com

A perfectly curated waterfront pool home with 4 bedrooms, 3 baths a 50-foot dock with a Golden boat lift capacity of 14,000 lbs. and a swingstopper. No bridges to open water. Generator and solar panels plus elevator to all floors.

Built of solid block with solid concrete foundation pillars that are buried well into the ground below, this 2-bedroom, 2-bath home is merely 100 feet from the beach access. The oversized garage can park at least four vehicles. Zoned for weekly rentals and no street-side parking.

Photo: ryan Paice

Shellie Young, PA, MCNS,

Lisa Neff

In the partial path

1:42 p.m.

I can almost guarantee that if you ask people whether they’ll observe the solar eclipse April 8, someone will ask you, “What time does it start?”

In Manatee County, where we will see a pretty cool partial solar eclipse rather than the totally cool total eclipse, the event begins at 1:42 p.m.

The maximum eclipse we will see — about 65% coverage — will be at 2:59 p.m. and the event will end at 4:15 p.m.

The Manatee County Natural Resources Department will hold a solar eclipse watch party on the lawn at Robinson Preserve’s NEST, 840 99th St. NW, Bradenton.

The first 50 people to attend will receive glasses to safely view the eclipse.

Everyone knows it is not safe to look directly at the sun without specialized eye protection for solar viewing, right?

Viewing any part of the bright sun through a camera lens, binoculars or a telescope without a special-purpose solar filter secured over the front of the optics can cause severe eye injury.

About 44% of Islander readers who responded to an online poll at islander.org said they intended to observe the partial eclipse. So maybe I’ll see some of our readers at Robinson Monday afternoon.

Another 27% said they planned to follow news coverage and 9% said they will wait two decades for the next total eclipse over the United States, as the path of totality will include west Florida.

That leaves 19% of readers who said they intended to travel into the path of totality.

My mother-in-law booked her hotel for an eclipse trip to southern Illinois several years ago and friends in Palmetto are departing in their RV this week, bound for the path.

Burrowing in

People gather at robinson Preserve in Bradenton Oct. 14, 2023, for a watch party. they observed an annular solar eclipse. islander File Photo: lisa Neff

The path — a track about 115 miles wide — will stretch from the Pacific to the Atlantic Ocean, with the eclipse making land in the west in Sinaloa, Mexico, crossing Durango and Coahuila, and entering the United States at Texas.

The path of totality will continue through Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Tennessee, Michigan, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine and then Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island and Newfoundland in Canada.

A gopher tortoise sits in a burrow. Florida marks gopher tortoise Day Wednesday, April 10. the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission encourages people to celebrate the keystone species. “As a Florida resident, you are an important part of conserving the state-protected gopher tortoise. … Celebrating and living alongside gopher tortoises is an important part of ensuring the tortoise — and the over 350 other species they provide shelter for in their burrows — will be around for years to come,” read a news release. For more information, go online to gophertortoisedayfl. com. islander Photo: Courtesy Carollyn Parrish

In the United States, an estimated 31 million people live in the path of totality, but the region is expected to experience an astrotourism boom, as millions more arrive to experience about 4 minutes and 27 seconds of darkness during the daytime.

“When you combine the populations of Mexico, USA and Canada that live inside the path of totality and add all of those who will travel on eclipse day, a total of 50 million North Americans witnessing totality is possible,” said Michael Zeiler, eclipse cartographer and co-founder of the Great American Eclipse at greatamericaneclipse.com, one of the top eclipserelated sites on the web.

Zeiler has seen 10 total solar eclipses and three annular eclipses from six continents and understands the enthusiasm.

“It will likely be the most-viewed astronomical event in American history,” he said of the April 8 eclipse.

‘Forever’ celebrated A U.s. Postal service “Forever” stamp celebrates the Florida manatee. this summer, the UsPs will release a series of stamps commemorating the six species of sea turtles — loggerhead, leather-

Neff

A NAsA map shows the path of totality and partial contours crossing the United states for the 2024 total solar eclipse occurring April 8. During a total solar eclipse, the moon completely blocks the sun while it passes between the sun and the earth. the sky will darken and those standing in the path of totality might see the sun’s outer atmosphere — the corona — if weather permits. islander Courtesy Photo

back, hawksbill, Kemp’s ridley, olive ridley and green. islander Courtesy Photo

ITEMS FOR SALE

NO stAirs tO front door: selling one-year-old electric lift. trust-t-lift holds 7,000 pounds. $5,000, new, asking $2,500. Call 941-896-6411.

WHite ViNYl ABOVe-ground pool ladder. excellent condition, $19. White aluminum screen door 36-inches, $49. 941-778-5542.

BOsU HOMe gYM, $50, exercise ball, $25, side tables, round, glass top, 2/$19, black chairs, soft leather 2/$20. 941-920-2494.

M i CHA el K i NCAD e K i N g canopy bedroom set. two side bureaus with drawers, highboy dresser with chest of drawers. beautiful headboard. Queen bedroom set. Dresser and chest of drawers. twin bed. 413-717-0280.

N e W COMPANY st O re comforters, quilts, sheets, dust ruffles, shower curtains. all in original packaging. 413-717-0280.

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). islANDer ArCHiVe. UofF Florida digital newspaper collection at ufdc.ufl.edu.

Paradise Improvements 941.792.5600

ESTATE SALES

estAte sAle: 9:30 a.m.-2 p.m. thursday, April 4. 6200 Flotilla Drive, unit 263, Holmes Beach. Parallel parking on one side Flotilla Drive only, with all wheels off pavement. No sign allowed, look for balloon, la-Z-Boy sofa bed, coffee and end table, recliners, dinette, bookcases, twin and queen bed set, tV stand, occasional chairs, pottery, clowns including two l ladros, set of Worcester Bacchanal jardinere, tVs, computer desk and chair, books, African artifacts, rugs, cabinets, oriental charger, patio set, s himano Citizen One bike, chest, costume jewelry, clothing, kitchenware. sale conducted by Palma sola sales. Numbers given out at 8 a.m.

GARAGE SALES

sAle: 9 a.m.-3 p.m. saturday, April 6. good stuff priced to move. household, kitchen, luggage, jewelry, patio, photo items, Weber grill, more. 707 s. Bay Blvd, Anna Maria.

TRANSPORTATION

g O l F CA rt re N tA ls : Fun for residents and tourists! 212-941-2402. www.golfCartrentalAMi com.

2022 e -B i K e : B i N telli Fusion 48V, 750-W electric bicycle. like-new. New, $2,100, asking $1,000, firm. 856-357-7101.

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.

CAP tA i N FO r H ire and boat caretaker services: if you need help with your boat on or off the water, call Captain Dan. UsCg, retired. 772486-8085.

FUN AND F is H: s kiff rental. 24-foot Carolina skiff. live bait and fishing equipment included upon request. Call 941-704-9382.

UNiQUe, ONe-OF-a-kind, factory custom 2001 45-foot trident tri- toon. Bar, heat/air, twin engines. UsCg inspected, 21 passengers with crew. endless possibilities for an individual or addition to existing business. $149,900. 727224-8977

HELP WANTED

A/C serV i C e te CH: s easoned, able to work well with others. input is appreciated, hard work is rewarded, salary negotiable. 40-plus hour work week, paid holidays and vacations. West Coast Air Conditioning and Heating, inc. 941778-9622.

A/C i N stA ller : CHAN ge outs experienced. High work ethical standards a must. Year-round work, no layoffs, benefits. West Coast Air Conditioning and Heating, inc. 941-778-9622.

s MU ggler ’ s COV e / g U l F stre AM beach resort: r eceptionist/activity person needed. three days during the week and saturday, 30-36 hours per week. Please, call 941-779-2804 for more details.

PA rt - ti M e DOCKMA ster position available. 8-10 hours per week. Dock On t he Bay Marina. Contact 941-3136496.

NOW H iri N g HANDYMAN: Full-time professional services. $18 an hour and up, based on experience. Call JayPros, 941-962-2874.

SERVICES

is YOUr HOMe or office in need of some cleaning? Well, i’m your girl! local, reliable, professional! Please, give me a call or text, 941-773 -0461.

CleANiNg: VACAtiON, CONstrUCtiON, residential, commercial and windows. licensed and insured. 941-756-4570.

PressUre WAsHiNg, PAVer sealing, driveway, roof, fence, pool area. Also, window cleaning. licensed and insured. 941-565-3931.

BiCYCle rePAirs: Just4Fun at 5358 gulf Drive can do most any bicycle repair at a reasonable cost. Pick-up and delivery available. 941-8967884.

APi’s DrYWAll rePAir: i look forward to servicing your drywall repair needs. Call 941-5248067 to schedule an appointment.

CleAN teCH MOBile Detailing. At your location. Cars, boats, rVs. Call or text Billie for an appointment. 941-592-3482.

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

PAiNtiNg: iNteriOr/exteriOr: sarasota interior painting. Call or text Don, 941-9009398. We are the best high-end painting! Just ask our AMi clients! i’m the owner and the painter. 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. 727623-5050.

PriVAte CAregiVer: DO You need help with groceries, doctors’ appointments, cleaning, care for pet, care for elderly or companion. i am looking for a part-time job. i have references and very experienced. i have integrity and i can help you and your loved ones with anything! sparkles, 941-704-9948.

AFFOrDABle PressUre WAsHiNg and vacation cleaning service. 941-356-1456.

g O rill A D rYWA ll re PA ir ll C. l et’s solve your drywall problems together. give us a call at 941-286-0607.

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.

KCi HOMe iNsPeCtiONs, wind mitigation and 4-point reports. Cg058093. Call 941-518-6329.

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.

BUsiNess-tO-BUsiNess JD’s Window Cleaning looking for storefront jobs in Holmes Beach. i make dirty windows sparkling clean. 941-9203840.

LAWN & GARDEN

CONNie’s lANDsCAPiNg iNC. residential and commercial. Full-service lawn maintenance, landscaping, cleanups, hauling and more! insured. 941-778-5294.

I S L A N D E R C L A S S I F I E D S

LAWN & GARDEN Continued

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

HOME IMPROVEMENT

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

G ri FF i N’S HOME i MP r OVEMENTS i nc. Handyman, fine woodwork, countertops, cabinets and wood flooring. i nsured and licensed. 941-722-8792.

iSlAND HANDYMAN: i live here, work here, value your referral. refinish, paint. Just ask. JayPros. licensed/insured. references. Call Jay, 941-9622874.

SCrEENiNG SErViCES: replace your old or ripped window, door or porch screens. Many screen types available. retired veteran here to serve our community! Free estimates, call lane, 941-705-5293.

l OOK i NG FO r 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.

SOUTHWEST HOME iMPrOVEMENT: Michigan builder, quality work guaranteed. Affordable, timely, within budget. Call Mike’s cell, 1-616-204-8822.

BMF iNTEriOrS: HOME repairs and more, no job too small. 786-318-8585.

TilE-TilE-TilE: lVT vinyl flooring, all variations of porcelain and ceramic tile supplied and installed. Total bathroom remodels. Many Mt. Vernon references. licensed and insured. Operations manager, 941-226-9671.

CA ll HYD r O C l EAN. Full-service pressure washing, sealing. Pavers, travertine and natural stone. Window washing too, up to three stories. Call Jacob, 941-920-2094.

RENTALS

ANNA MAriA GUlF beachfront vacation rentals. One- two- and three-bedroom units, all beachfront. www.amiparadise.com. 941-778-3143.

PEriCO iSlAND PATiO home for rent. 3Br/2BA, 30-day minimum. Privacy fence/gate, two miles to AM i . Now leasing May through December, 2024. Call or text, 859-771-6423. http://pericoislandrental.com/

AVAilABlE NOW AND season: 1Br/1BA, sevennight minimum. carlesvacationrentals.com Special rates are available. 941-807-1405.

ACrOSS FrOM BAY, Two miles to Anna Maria. 2Br/1BA fully furnished. Available April. All utilities, washer/dryer. $3,900 month. Family owned. 941-773-1552.

HOlMES BEACH 2Br/2BA island home. Vaulted ceilings, walkable to beach, restaurants, dog park. Boat slip, furnished. Six-plus months minimum. Call Paige, 513-382-1992, Duncan real Estate.

ANNUAl rENTAl. 2/Br1BA duplex. Near Cortez village. Nice quiet area across from bay. Two miles to beach. Full kitchen, in-unit laundry room. Shed. Patio. $1,850/month includes water and Wi-Fi tv. 941-773-1552.

ANNUA l r ENTA l : V ill A home in Perico Bay Club, Bradenton. Gated and 24-hour security. 2Br/2BA, updated. Updated kitchen, screened deck and two-car garage. Unfurnished. Text 908875-0299 for information.

RENTALS Continued

l OOK i NG FO r ANNUA l rental. Minimum 3Br with a pool and on the water with a lift. Austin, 863-581-3685.

HOME SHA rE iN Bradenton near Anna Maria island. Private bedroom, furnished. Text, 941725-0256.

2025 SEASONAl rENTAl: Just one block from the beach, Single-story 2B r /2BA, screened patio, private backyard. No smoking/no pets. Three-month minimum. Holmes Beach. Call 813-833-4926.

r ENTA l : S i X-MONTH minimum. Elevated 2Br/2BA, 900sf, primary suite, Gulf views, steps to beach, furnished, utilities included. $4,500 per month. Call 941-518-6329, for photos, email morganlewisrealty@gmail.com.

ANNA MA ri A 3B r /1BA historic cottage, half block to Gulf beach and one block to Pine Avenue shopping and restaurants. Available due to cancellation: April 2024, $3,000/month, May 2024, $2,800/month. 941-778-8456, terryaposporos@ gmail.com.

ANNUAl rENTAl: HOlMES Beach. Spacious 3Br/1.5BA on canal. Garage, washer/dryer, boat hoist, close to beach. Available May 1. $3,800/ month plus utilities. Text/call, 231-670-6697.

HO l MES BEACH: 2B r /2BA bayside condo. heated pool, tennis, pickleball, beautifully updated. Summer and fall monthly availability. Call Julie at 312-835-3054 or email shellpointhaven@gmail.com for photos and details.

SEASONAl Or ANNUAl rental: 55-plus, friendly community, bottom floor. Sleeps four, 1.5BA. Beach access. $3,400/month. 847-769-9080.

MONTHlY rENTAl AVAilABlE June 11 through December. furnished, all utilities. Off Cortez road, 2 miles from beach, across from bay. Quiet, friendly neighborhood. $2,400/month. 941-7731552. locally owned.

FOr rENT: MAY to December. Anna Maria island condo. Great value, beautiful upgraded 2Br/2Br i ncredible water view. Pool, tennis, walk to beach. Private carport. Excellent rental terms. Owner/renter. Call/email for pictures, 570239-0431. marketreps@aol.com.

ANNUA l r ENTA l : JUST 10 minutes to Anna Maria island. 3Br/1.5BA. $2,300 a month. Twocar garage. No pets/smoking. Text to 941-7736544.

REAL ESTATE

W i NN i E MCHA l E, r EA lTO r , 941-5046146. rosebay international realty inc. 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.”

WEST B r ADENTON CONDO: resort lifestyle, ground-floor 2Br//2BA. Garage. 6.5 miles, 14 minutes from Gulf beaches. $264,900. Call or text, 941-725-4374.

FOr SAlE BY owner: Paradise Bay Estates (55-plus community) mobile home, 1Br/1BA, turnkey, partially furnished, epoxy flooring in lanai, stamped concrete driveway, $160,000. One mile to beach. 614-230-5520.

BrADENTON WAlK-A-BOUT downtown at the west end of the riverwalk. Main Street shoppes, art, restaurants, entertainment and events. 2/ Br/2BA, balcony and carport. Eight miles direct drive to Gulf beaches. Geri Kenyon, 941-7254374. Florida Suncoast real Estate.

REAL ESTATE Continued

COASTAl lUXUrY: 4Br/4.5BA, pool, sold turnkey furnished for immediate move-in. Meticulously maintained, never rented, includes golf cart and electric beach wagon for island exploration! An absolute must-see! Call 941-685-6850 or email Team@HuntBrothersrealty.com for more info.

FOr SAlE ON: Anna Maria island in Sandpiper r esort Co-op, a 55-plus community. Totally remodeled 2Br/1.5BA ground-level bungalow with adjacent parking and carport. Stacked washer and dryer and three air/heat mini splits. Heated pool onsite, pickleball courts one block away. Gulf is 300 steps and bay, 200 steps from your porch. $300,000. Call Tim, 507-382-8880.

HO l MES BEACH HOUSE: Beach lifestyle, 3Br/2BA. Enjoy a chef’s kitchen, fenced yard, pool and screened porch complete the beach lifestyle. Oversized garage. Minutes from Gulf beaches. $1,599,900. Beth Beckert Call or text, 941-720-3676. Sarasota Global realty.

In the market for seafood

Island Fresh Market Ami has become a favorite grocery spot for neighbors in the Holmes Beach downtown area over the years and residents and vacationers are also showing up for shop-made dishes.

Located in the C&S Plaza at 5604 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, the market is where people head for seafood and produce, as well as prepared foods — soups and steamed shrimp.

Owner Darcie Andersen told The Islander March 26, “You can come in here and get the whole meal, the seasoning, the fresh seafood, we’ve got homemade Key lime pie, which is popular. It’s our chef’s grandmother’s recipe. We make our seafood soups and chowders.”

Chef Isabella Elliott uses many of her grandmother’s recipes in the kitchen.

The market offers a Tuesday night supper club in which people place an order for a selected “club”

Tentree the day before and the market prepares the gourmet meal for take-away — items like Grouper Florentine, crab cakes, shrimp and scallops.

Andersen said she’s also noticed grab-and-go items have grown in popularity.

Shaad Buss of West Lafayette, Indiana, has vacationed on Anna Maria Island for nine years, and said he regularly stops at the market while on AMI.

“Any time we can get fresh seafood whether it be fish or shrimp, we get it,” Buss said March 26. Market hours are 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday-Friday and 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday-Sunday.

For more information, contact Island Fresh Market at 941-567-6130 or go to islandfreshmarketami.com.

Steaming tops Yelp

Topsail Steamer, a family-run company, was recognized by Yelp as one of the top seafood restaurants in the nation.

Topsail Steamer has locations across the eastern part of the country in North Carolina, New Jersey, Delaware and Florida, including in Holmes Beach at 5321 Gulf Drive. The location that earned the Yelp honor is in Surf City, North Carolina.

“We’re thrilled to be acknowledged by Yelp as one of the top seafood establishments in the country,” owner Danielle Mahon said in a March 25 news release. “Our journey began with a desire to create

941.962.0309

KathyBergloff@michaelsaunders.com

Beautiful, well-maintained 2BR/2BA condo on the beach. Turnkey furnished. $865,000.

island Fresh Market Ami owner Darcie Andersen stands March 27 behind a seafood cooler at the market, 5604 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. islander Photo: robyn Murrell

Madison Burns,

memorable group dining experiences using the best seafood the Carolina Coast has to offer. We love that customers have embraced our approach and enjoyed our food with family and friends.”

Topsail Steamer offers a take-home-and-eat con-

PropertyWatch

By Carol Bernard

Island real estate

7100 Gulf Drive, #202, Holmes Beach, a 1,081 sq ft 2BR/2BA Nautilus condo built in 1973 sold 3/1/2024 by Bell Realty Group LLC to SPE 108 LLC for $720,000, list price $749,900.

5300 Gulf Drive, #607, Holmes Beach, a 1,310 sq ft 2BB/2BA Martinique North condo built in 1971 sold 2/27/2024 by Ryskamp to Barrows Trust for $1,181,000, list price $1,150,000.

117 81st St., Holmes Beach, a 2,448 sq ft 3BR/3BA home on a 3,999 sq ft lot built in 1974 sold 2/28/2024 by Hines to Christiansen for $1,522,000, list price $1,900,000.

115 30th St., Holmes Beach a 2,406 sq ft 3BR/2BA pool home on a 5,001 sq ft lot built in 2009 sold

at Topsail in Holmes Beach, told The Islander March 28, “This month has been super busy for us. We get calls all day from people vacationing on the island. We load up their buckets, give them cooking instructions, which are all done in our buckets on the stovetop and and they’re off.”

For more information, call 941-254-6060 or go to topsailsteamer.com.

2/29/2024 by Huntington to Gigi & Poppys Paradise LLC by $1,815,000, list price $1,950,000.

508 77th St., Holmes Beach, a 2,445 sq ft 3BR/3BA pool home on a 9,810 sq ft lot built in 2004 sold 2/28/2024 by Kamberis to 508 AMI Estate LLC for $2,153,000, list price $2,199,000.

105 28th St., Holmes Beach, a 3,072 sq ft 7BR/5BA pool home on a 10,550 sq ft lot built in 1979 sold 3/1/2024 by Slivonik to Yelle for $3,000,000, list price $3,195,000.

523 56th St., Holmes Beach, a 3,483 sq ft 4BR/5BA pool home on a 11,879 sq ft lot built in 2023 sold 2/29/2024 by Wilson to Pelagio Trust for $6,375,000, list price $7,500,000.

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

sparks,

seniors at Manatee High

Bur-

in Bradenton, hold certificates received during an awards ceremony March 28 at laPensee Plumbing, Holmes Beach. the chamber scholarship

— Joanna Maker of United Community Bank, Nikita Fosmore of salon salon, Don goudy of Veritas! Pest Management and Mike southwick of AAA payroll — attended, along with the students’ parents and other chamber members. the Feast restaurant in Holmes Beach catered the event. A third chamber scholarship will be awarded April 25 at the business card exchange at the Anna Maria island Historical society Museum. islander

BizCal

By robyn Murrell

THIS WEEK

Thursday, April 4 8-9:30 a.m. — Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce sunrise breakfast, Minnie’s Beach Cafe, 5360 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. Fee applies. Information: 941-778-1541.

SAVE THE DATES

April 11, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m., AMI chamber business luncheon, Westminster Point Pleasant, 1533 Fourth Ave. W., Bradenton.

April 25, 5-7 p.m., AMI chamber business card exchange and scholarship presentation, Anna Maria Island Historical Society, 402 Pine Ave., Anna Maria.

May 10, 12:30 p.m., AMI chamber golf tournament, IMG Academy Golf Club, 4350 El Conquistador Parkway, Bradenton. Send calendar listings to robyn@islander.org.

look online for the islander at the UofF Florida newspaper collection at ufdc.ufl.edu.

Direct: 941.713.5458

Email: Shellie.Young@PremierSIR.com

Impeccably maintained from the landscaping to the roof, which is new as of November 2022. A list of upgrades, all completed in the past few years, is available upon request. Mid-island home in Holmes Beach with two bedrooms, a den and bath with room for a pool and a beautiful garden to enjoy the tranquility.

Duplex weekly rental property, each unit having its own entire floor with front balconies to take in the seaside sites and glorious sunsets, as well as balconies on the back. Five bedrooms and four baths and an oversized owner’s area on the ground floor is a must-see.

tops on yelp FrOM PAge 26

Shellie Young, PA, MCNS, IARP, CLHMS Million Dollar Guild

Anna Maria island Chamber of Commerce scholarship recipients Bryanna

left, and Jacob

dette, graduating

school

panel

Photo: robyn Murrell

topsail steamer Holmes Beach employee Alyssa Beard, left, puts lobsters in a steamer bucket March 28 as she and assistant manager Madison Burns prepare an order. islander Photo: robyn Murrell cept, including the steamer pot.

assistant manager

Chamber supports local scholars