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Jason Schaffer

Jason Schaffer

March 29, 2021
Sun correspondent Jason Schaffer covers tourism, the arts, Anna Maria Elementary School, law enforcement, and the Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce. Email
Email Jason Schaffer
June 22, 2021
By Jason Schaffer
Pirate invasion coming to Anna Maria Island

Pirate invasion coming to Anna Maria Island

ANNA MARIA ISLAND – The Anna Maria Island Privateers have announced their “Return to Tortuga Pirate Invasion Weekend” Aug. 5-8. Events for the weekend include the Bilge Rat Derby, Invasion Kick-Off…
June 20, 2021
By Jason Schaffer
Crime

Increased tourism having some effect on crime

ANNA MARIA ISLAND – While tourism continues to increase due to the lifting of COVID-19 restrictions, crime is up and down in AMI’s three cities, police officers say. “We haven’t seen much of an in…
June 14, 2021
By Jason Schaffer

Summer may be different this year

ANNA MARIA ISLAND – The first day of summer is almost here. On Monday, June 21, we not only witness the longest day of the year, but what many Island residents consider the end of the busy tourist se…
June 14, 2021
By Jason Schaffer
Rentals

Some vacation rentals reverting to residences

HOLMES BEACH – Anna Maria Island has seen many changes in recent years, including a decrease in permanent residents and a sharp increase in weekly rentals. This inclination has brought on changes suc…
June 5, 2021
By Jason Schaffer
AMI Concierge Services allows visitors to spend more time relaxing

AMI Concierge Services allows visitors to spend more time relaxing

ANNA MARIA – A new business in the heart of Gulf Drive in Anna Maria is helping Island visitors spend less time booking activities and more time enjoying their vacation. Whether it’s a family that…
June 5, 2021
By Jason Schaffer
Local resident serious about educating visitors

Local resident serious about educating visitors

BRADENTON BEACH – After a recent social media post received thousands of responses from locals and tourists alike, people are taking notice of local resident Kerry Robertson and her efforts to educat…
May 30, 2021
By Jason Schaffer
Sax on the beach

Sax on the beach

ANNA MARIA – If you happen to be strolling by Harry’s Grill on Gulf Drive in Anna Maria any Thursday or Saturday evening, you’ll likely hear the sounds of Pamela K. Ward. After spending the last two…
May 30, 2021
By Jason Schaffer

Business card exchange offers networking opportunities

CORTEZ – The Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce held its latest business card exchange last week at Slicker’s Eatery in Cortez. The exchange is a great way for Chamber members and future members t…
May 30, 2021
By Jason Schaffer
Cortez honors veterans in Memorial Day ceremony

Cortez honors veterans in Memorial Day ceremony

CORTEZ – There was laughter and tears Saturday morning as elected officials, families of fallen heroes and veterans gathered to honor those who gave their lives to serve not only their country, but t…
May 30, 2021
By Jason Schaffer
Snooks Adams Kids Day brings excitement and adventure

Snooks Adams Kids Day brings excitement and adventure

ANNA MARIA –  The Anna Maria Island Privateers, a non-profit organization dedicated to giving back to the community, held their annual Snooks Adams Kids Day on Saturday, May 29 at the Anna Maria City…
May 30, 2021
By Jason Schaffer
First COVID-19 case reported at Anna Maria Elementary

Anna Maria Elementary says goodbye to retiring staff members

HOLMES BEACH – The 2020-21 school year has come to an end and Anna Maria Elementary is saying goodbye to principal Jackie Featherston. Featherston has been serving in the district since 1979, and has…
May 29, 2021
By Jason Schaffer
Travel + Leisure shows love for Anna Maria Island

Travel + Leisure shows love for Anna Maria Island

ANNA MARIA ISLAND – Although Anna Maria Island is comprised of three cities – Anna Maria, Holmes Beach and Bradenton Beach – Travel + Leisure recently bestowed the entire Island with the number 2 spo…
May 25, 2021
By Jason Schaffer

Local artist takes inspiration from Island beaches

BRADENTON BEACH – Stroll along any of the beaches on Anna Maria Island and you’re likely to walk past local artist Cory Wright. After falling in love with the Island during regular trips here with he…
May 24, 2021
By Jason Schaffer

Record crowds predicted for Memorial Day

BRADENTON BEACH – With COVID-19 restrictions being lifted, flights back to 100% capacity, people vaccinated and school coming to an end, Anna Maria Island could potentially see a record number of vis…
May 23, 2021
By Jason Schaffer

Lack of workers putting stress on Island businesses

ANNA MARIA ISLAND – As you browse the shops, dine in the restaurants and check into the resorts of Anna Maria Island, you may notice what’s becoming a familiar sight not just on the Island, but in ci…