The Islander Newspaper E-Edition: Wednesday, August 30, 2017 by The Anna Maria Islander Newspaper

Mega-opposition builds to megabridge. 2 Mosquito season. 8

Intruders. 25

Have a safe and fun Labor Day

VOLUME 25, NO. 44

AUG. 30, 2017 FREE

IT’S THE ZOMBIE MOSQUITO APOCALYPSE

The Best News on Anna Maria Island Since 1992 AsTheWorldTerns chase skeeters. 6 Bradenton Beach board members ﬂee. 3

Op-Ed

Island elections take shape. 4

The Islander editorial, reader letters. 6-7

10-20 YEARS AGO

Looking back. 7

Make plans, save a date. 10

Happenings

Community activities, announcements. 11-12 County board delays Aqua by the Bay decision. 14 Anna Maria votes for permanent franchise ban. 15

Streetlife. 18 Obituaries. 19

www.islander.org

Visitor found BB election dead in bay sparring begins

By Kathy Prucnell Islander Reporter A Seminole man was found dead Aug. 21 in the shallow water of Sarasota Bay near shore between two docks in Bradenton Beach. Two women walking back from the end of a bayfront dock in the 400 block of Bay Drive South saw the body and called 911 at 5:07 p.m., according to Manatee County dispatch and Bradenton Beach police reports. Police found Steven Michael Bahm, 53, in thick vegetation with a bruised and cut eye at 5:12 p.m. He was pronounced dead by a 12th District medical examiner. He was found lying on his back partially in the water, wearing shorts, a tank top and one sandal, a BBPD report states. He had been reported missing the day before by Pam Byrd, his live-in girlfriend. Bahm’s son also made a missing person report. BBPD ofﬁcers searched Aug. 20 for him to no avail. Byrd told police she left Bahm that Sunday at the dock where they had argued, following a day of drinking on a boat. BBPD Detective Sgt. Lenard Diaz said Byrd also reported being afraid of Bahm and PLEASE SEE VISITOR PAGE 3

By ChrisAnn Silver Esformes Islander Reporter Election season is on the front burner in Bradenton Beach. While the municipal election may yet be months away, sparks already are ﬂying. Mayor Bill Shearon is seeking reelection and Vice Mayor John Chappie has declared he will challenge Shearon for the seat in the Nov. 7 municipal election. Chappie — former mayor and county commissioner — was elected Ward 4 commissioner in November 2016. Now, with Chappie having filed his “resign-to-run” paperwork, he will hold the Ward 4 commission seat until the election. It will not be on the ballot. Instead, it will be open for commission appointment following the Nov. 7 election whether or not he wins the mayoral race. In an Aug. 23 email to the Chappie and city ofﬁcials, Bill Vincent asked Chappie to reconsider his resignation. In the email, Vincent, who was defeated by Chappie in the Ward 4 race in 2016 by 140 votes, claims Chappie is depriving the people of the fair and democratic election procedure that led to Chappie’s victory. PLEASE SEE BB ELECTION PAGE 3

Holy waterspout!

Tjet Martin captures a waterspout on the Gulf of Mexico Aug. 24 with her camera from the deck at the home she shares with Bradenton Beach Mayor Bill Shearon in the 300 block of Gulf Drive. She said the ﬁrst one was pretty scary looking, and then a second one formed close to the ﬁrst. There also was one offshore of Coquina Beach. “It was all very exciting,” Martin said, but it wasn’t threatening. The storm was headed west into the Gulf.

Tops in Top Notch

Fifth-graders lead the way. 22 County tourism ﬂat, island sees doubledigit increases. 24 Au natural. 27 Adult football playoffs underway. 28 Early a.m. best for anglers. 29

ISL BIZ. 30 Real estate sales. 31 Classiﬁeds. 32

Andrew Fortenberry of Holmes Beach is this year’s ﬁnalist in The Islander’s Top Notch photo contest. He used a drone to take this image of Passage Key looking toward Egmont Key. The grand-prize winner has won $100 from The Islander and an assortment of gift certiﬁcates from participating advertisers. Congratulations and keep on clicking the shutter. Next week: Honorable mentions and top pet pic.

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Sheema Gollamudi, right, and brother Vincent look sunward Aug. 21 during the solar eclipse, which occurred on Sheema’s 11th birthday. For more photos, see pages 16, 17 and 23. Islander Photo: Courtesy “Mom,” Nenita Daguinotas

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2 n Aug. 30, 2017 n THE ISLANDER

Cortez residents pool resources, resist DOT megabridge Paradise Bay mobile home park residents Tom Coulson, left, Jean Coulson, Bill Booher and Sheila Gilstrap preview the DOT’s options for the Cortez Bridge at an Aug. 26 meeting at Fishermen’s Hall, 4511 124th St. W., Cortez, called by Cortez opponents of a megabridge to discuss strategies for lobbying the DOT. Islander Photo: Terry O’Connor

molto said many cortez residents consider the current bridge an iconic representative of the “low-rise” fishing village it serves. She strongly favors repair, she said, as do most cortezians. a dot study indicated the bridge can be repaired for $4.5 million but it will need to be redone after 10 years and will be “substandard” throughout the rest of its life. Holmes Beach commissioner carol Soustek said if dot insists on building a new bridge, she would prefer a replica of the current span. “i cannot envision the dot’s high bridge because of the approaches,” Soustek said. the east approach for a 65-foot span would result in the ramp to the bridge towering over the village near the waterway, according to dot projections. the thursday, aug. 31, hearing will be the last before the dot chooses to repair or replace the bridge

that opened in 1957. the dot has conducted more than a dozen public meetings on the bridge. public comment will be accepted at the hearing and online at cortezbridge.com through Sept. 12, according to Burch. The DOT will submit its final decision for federal government approval roughly one month later, Burch said. Bridge inspections between 2008 and 2012 determined the two-lane cortez Bridge is structurally obsolete although it remains functionally sound. the bridge is 11 years past its projected 50-year service life. it was built at the same time as the gulf drive-Longboat pass and manatee avenue-anna maria island bridges. the dot began planning the cortez Bridge repair or replacement options in 2013. draft project reports are available at the island Branch Library, 5701 marina drive, Holmes Beach, and Kirkwood presbyterian church, 6101 cortez road W., Bradenton, or online at cortezbridge.com.

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By terry o’connor islander reporter With one last chance remaining to impress upon the florida department of transportation their preference for retaining the low-rise cortez Bridge, a two-hour strategy session aug. 26 brought roughly 50 people together to discuss how best to get their message across. the meeting was preparation for a dot public hearing at 5 p.m. thursday, aug. 31, at Kirkwood presbyterian church, 6101 cortez road W., Bradenton. detailed dot bridge drawings were displayed on tables along with news coverage giving attendees background on the bridge issue. Whether it will make a difference is debatable, according to some who braved a downpour to attend the gathering at fishermen’s Hall in cortez. “i think it’s good people are getting together to talk about it,” said Sheila gilstrap, who once served as a tender on the cortez Bridge. “But i don’t think our input will matter. i think the decision has been made.” Linda molto, board member of the florida institute for Saltwater Heritage, urged those in attendance to keep fighting. “We didn’t think we were going to win last time,” molto said, referring to a successful effort to block a dot megabridge proposal in 1993. Strategies discussed aug. 26 included working to block the dot on permitting, safety and environmental fronts. the dot is leaning toward the largest of its three options for repairing or replacing the bridge, but spokesman Zachary Burch emphasized it has not yet decided to build a $72 million, 65-foot verticalclearance fixed bridge. a new bridge would have a service life of 75 years, the dot projects. the engineering and design phase is budgeted at $7.2 million with $21.3 million to secure rights of way, Burch said.

THE ISLANDER n Aug. 30, 2017 n 3

BB loses board members to Sunshine suit

By ChrisAnn Silver Esformes Islander Reporter A recent lawsuit has sparked a polarity between city officials and staff and some volunteer board members in Bradenton Beach. Eight board members have resigned since Aug. 7, when the city voted 3-1 to join a lawsuit filed by former Mayor Jack Clarke against planning and zoning board members Reed Mapes, John Metz, Patty Shay and Bill Vincent, along with Scenic Waves Partnership Committee chair Tjet Martin and Waves member Rose Vincent. Bill Vincent, left, and Bradenton Beach Vice Mayor Mayor Bill Shearon voted “nay.” John Chappie pose Oct. 12, 2016, during The Clarke alleges the defendants discussed city matIslander’s “Popcorn and Politics” candidate forum ters at a meeting of the grassroots group Concerned at the newspaper office in Holmes Beach. Islander Neighbors of Bradenton Beach and put the city in File Photo: ChrisAnn Silver Esformes danger of violating the Sunshine Law’s open meetings requirements. Bb Election continued from page 1 City attorney Ricinda Perry told later commis“You won the race for Ward 4 commissioner in a sioners the complainant is Clarke and that their vote free, fair, competitive and democratic election. You resulted in Clarke suing only the board members, not are now on a course of action that denies those same the city. electors the right to choose their representative official. With your effective date of resignation there is no Visitor continued from page 1 mechanism for a citizen to place their name in candi- that she tried to shield her daughter from the argument. dacy for this elective office,” Vincent wrote. He also said Byrd left in their vehicle, but didn’t want Vincent ended the email with a demand for Chap- Bahm to drive while intoxicated. pie to change the date of his resignation to allow an According to the police report, Byrd said Bahm election for the Ward 4 seat. had threatened “to walk off a pier and kill himself.” As of Aug. 25, Chappie had not responded to VinA witness to the argument told Diaz she saw Bahm cent’s email. chugging from a bottle of vodka. In addition to the mayor’s office, Ward 1 and Ward The witness who spotted the body told police she 3 commission seats are up for election in November. observed a broken bottle of vodka and brown sandal Ward 1 Commissioner Jake Spooner and Ward 3 on the shoreline on her way out to the bench on the Commissioner Ralph Cole are completing their first end of the dock and “thought nothing of it.” terms and both have declared they will seek re-elecDiaz reported the medical examiner found fluid in tion. Bahm’s lungs. Candidates for the Bradenton Beach election must An investigation is ongoing, he added. submit qualifying paperwork and fees by noon Friday, Anyone with information on the incident is asked Sept. 1, to the Manatee County Supervisor of Elections to contact the BBPD at 941-778-4766 or Crime StopOffice, 600 301 Blvd. W., Bradenton. pers at 866-634-TIPS.

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Since the vote was taken, the six board members being sued by Clarke and the city have resigned from their appointed positions. Subsequently, other board members have followed suit, either to support their former colleagues, oppose the actions of the city commission or for fear of future lawsuits. Concerns have risen over who will fill the open seats. “I surely wouldn’t recommend being a volunteer for anything in this city,” Mapes said Aug. 10. The resignations — eight in all — leave the P&Z board without a quorum and could pose the same problem for Scenic Waves. Waves members Carl Parks and Bona Lee Wortman also resigned. In an Aug. 22 email to the city, Parks said as one of the longest-serving members and former chair of the committee, he has continued to serve Waves even though he no longer lives on the island. He wrote that while the committee cannot make policy, it reports to state agencies to maintain the city’s Scenic Highway Partnership, Tree City USA and Waterfronts Florida Partnership designations. Without a reporting committee, the city could lose those designations. “Without our committee reporting to the state, however, Bradenton Beach would lose its respective state of Florida designations along with any related grant possibilities that benefit the city,” Parks wrote. He wrote that Waves already has difficulties maintaining a quorum, partly due to reluctance of city officials and staff to heed the committee’s recommendations. He closed the email, writing, “I do not begrudge the long hours and hard work. There were successes along with the failures. However, my civic mindedness ends with a city that is unwilling to protect its own dedicated volunteers against the threat of a frivolous lawsuit, which is probably sour grapes over a lost mayoral election.”

4 n Aug. 30, 2017 n THE ISLANDER

Spoiler poses for Anna Maria commission seat

By Bianca Benedí Islander Reporter Commissioners Carol Carter, Doug Copeland and Dale Woodland are hoping to keep their seats in the Nov. 7 election. All three have submitted qualification papers to seek re-election. Laurie Jo Higgins, a resident of Anna Maria for nearly 22 years, is looking to be a spoiler. “I’m very nervous,” admitted Higgins, who has never run for elected office. However, she said, she wanted to break up the “good old boy’s club” of power in the city. “Complacency has set in,” she Carter said. Higgins says her motivation to enter politics includes a history of bad interactions with officials. “I was treated badly by city officials and when I tried to complain I was bullied, threatened and, basiCopeland cally, told you’ll never know when you might need us,” Higgins said. In addition, she said, she feels the commission doesn’t cater enough to the needs of the elderly and young people on the island. “All the hype is for vacation rentWoodland als,” she said. “There’s a group of old people who are silent. They complain to me, and they don’t really have a voice. A lot of people are very afraid to speak up because of what happened to me. Nobody wants to be harassed.” Higgins said a dispute arose with Anna Maria officials while her mother was in hospice care at Higgins’ home. “During my grief period, the bullying sent me over the edge. I’m stronger now,” she said.

As for policies and visions for the city, Higgins said she is “100 percent in favor of more green spaces,” but would prefer to see bicycles on sidewalks instead of bike paths, which she says remain dangerously close to vehicular traffic. Higgins She said the city overstepped its bounds with its vacation rental ordinance. “When you allow a 10-bedroom home to be built, what do you expect?” she said. “If you’re going to give the building permit, that’s what you should expect.” She also said she has followed the debate between the Center of Anna Maria Island and the city. “I see both sides. …I understand why there can’t be total transparency,” she said. However, she added, the center board is “more of the same good old boy’s club we’ve always had out here.” Copeland was the last of the incumbents to declare his candidacy. “I want to get the City Pier Park done,” Copeland said about his goals for a new term. “I’m not sure we can get the pier completed, but at least we can get that construction going and get the Bert Harris cases completed. Then continue to try to work for the best interests of the citizens.” Copeland added that he hoped the Florida League of Cities can help the city obtain stronger home rule, adding that he believed settling the Bert Harris complaints could resolve much of the conflict in Anna Maria. “We’ve weathered the storm,” he said. Up next, he said, is to convince more people to live full-time on the island. Copeland has served on the city commission since 2014, as has Carter. Woodland has been a commissioner for 14 years. The election is Nov. 7.

City redresses community center Sunshine Law compliance

By Bianca Benedí Islander Reporter In response to a letter sent by the Center of Anna Maria Island to The Islander refuting the newspaper’s claim the center is subject to public records laws, the city of Anna Maria has redressed a 2016 demand for compliance with Florida’s Government-in-the-Sunshine Law. The center sent a letter Aug. 11 to Islander attorney Rachel Fugate of Shullman-Fugate of Tampa in response to the newspaper’s public records requests. In the letter, attorney Scott Rudacille, former chair of the center board, maintains the center is not obligated to fulfill public records requests because the Sunshine Law does not apply to the nonprofit. However, Anna Maria Mayor Dan Murphy told commissioners at their Aug. 24 meeting that he had reviewed Rudacille’s letter and he found erroneous factual content in the letter that should be contested. City attorney Becky Vose drafted a response correcting statements made in the Rudacille-Islander letter that commissioners reviewed and approved Aug. 24. “Virtually every paragraph was incorrect,” Vose told commissioners. Vose’s letter disputes multiple statements, including the origin of the center and the role of the city in creating and maintaining it. One paragraph, she says of the letter, “totally re-writes the actual history of the property on which AMICC operates.” The center’s letter alleges the city of Anna Maria was selected to be a steward of the center. Vose said some of the land where the center operates was donated by residents to the city to create a youth center, in accordance with the city charter. Another area of the property was donated to the city by the Manatee County School District when the school moved to Holmes Beach. Commissioner Brian Seymour noted during the meeting that the center was “undervaluing” the land in order to downplay the city’s financial generosity. “I would venture to say it’s probably four to six times higher than they say,” he said. Vose’s letter asserts again — repeating the Febru-

ary 2016 claims — that the center meets eight of nine standard criteria for determining whether an entity is subject to Florida’s Sunshine Law. Vose sent the February 2016 notice alleging the center met the criteria in response to another public records dispute. While the center apparently complied in that matter, recent attempts by The Islander to obtain financial records and emails have been ignored.

A path for mediation The Islander newspaper proposed in June that the center and the city take part in free, non-binding mediation facilitated by the Florida Attorney General’s office in order to resolve the public records debate. Center board chair David Zaccagnino notified The Islander that he would poll board members on whether the center would participate. However, he has yet to respond to the AGO. Anna Maria commissioners voted unanimously June 22 to participate in mediation with the AGO. At the commission meeting Aug. 24, Vose said the city is “still open to having the mediation.” Commissioner Doug Copeland said he favored sending the city letter because he didn’t want “to let (Rudacille’s opinion) stand as the position of the city.” Commissioner Dale Woodland said he didn’t want to take the center to court. But, he added, “I’m disappointed they’re not here if we’re talking about this.” No one representing the center attended the meeting, however, Murphy noted the center was notified Aug. 21 the letter would be on the agenda. “They opted not to be here,” he said. Lessig responded Aug. 30, saying she had a fundraising commitment and Zaccagnino was recovering from ankle surgery. She also circulated an email canceling the August board of directors meeting. Islander publisher Bonner Joy addressed the commission regarding the dispute with the center. “It’s a hard subject to broach,” Joy said. Joy said she wants to continue her support for the center, but it desperately needs credible leadership. She noted discrepancies exist in the Kerkering and Barbario financial audits, Guidestar, a not-for-profit

Jim Kihm, left, who plans to campaign for a seat on the Holmes Beach commission, chats with Police Chief Bill Tokajer at the Aug. 22 meeting in city hall, 5801 Marina Drive. Islander Photo: Terry O’Connor

Challenges loom in Holmes Beach commission races By Terry O’Connor Islander Reporter At least five people, including two challengers and three incumbents, have confirmed interest in running for the Holmes Beach City Commission. Incumbents Pat Morton, Carol Soustek and Marvin Grossman are running for re-election. Challengers Jim Kihm and Mike Hurst have picked up qualifying packets from city clerk Stacey Johnston and are listed as candidates on the Manatee County website at votermanatee.com. “That doesn’t mean they’ve qualified,” Johnston said. “The packets might not even have been for them.” Four commission seats are being contested in the Nov. 7 election. Three seats carry two-year terms, while one is for a year. Only Commissioner Jean Peelen declined to confirm her candidacy. Candidate packets include numerous qualifying forms. All candidates must be citizens of the United States, registered voters in Manatee County and a resident of Holmes Beach for at least two years. Candidates qualify by paying $60, which is 1 percent of the annual commissioner salary, collecting 15 registered voter signatures and signing a residency affidavit. Filing an undue burden oath eliminates the fee but petition signatures and proof of residence are still required. Candidates must establish a treasurer and campaign account. The maximum individual contribution for any candidate is $1,000 although candidates can contribute any amount to their own campaigns. Political signs may be posted in Holmes Beach up to 45 days before the election, which would be Sunday, Sept. 24, at the earliest. Commission seats are nonpartisan and represent the citywide electorate. Holmes Beach had 2,819 registered voters as of Aug. 25, according to Michael Bennett, Manatee County supervisor of elections. financial reporting agency and financial information provided by the center to qualify for the Patterson Foundation’s Giving Challenge. “The numbers are different across the board.” And, she said, the $850,000 endowment fund that existed in 2015 is gone. It’s been spent on deficits. Joy also told commissioners she believes the center left out pertinent financial documents when it turned over more than 1,000 pages of financial records for a city review of its finances in July. You are not seeing the whole picture, she told commissioners, adding that the reasons for the newspaper inquiries are accusations from the public of misuse of funds and moral corruption. “It leaves a person to wonder, what are they hiding?” she said.

THE ISLANDER n Aug. 30, 2017 n 5

Bradenton Beach approves citizen ballot initiatives By chrisann Silver esformes islander reporter the petitions have been signed, sealed and delivered, with just enough time to get three Bradenton Beach citizen’s initiatives on the november ballot. the grassroots group concerned neighbors of Bradenton Beach prepared three ballot initiatives and collected petition signatures from more than 100 Bradenton Beach voters — fulfilling the requirement for signatures from at least 10 percent of voters in the previous election — to have the initiatives added to the nov. 7 municipal ballot. at an aug. 28 meeting, city commissioners voted 4-1 to approve the petitions, allowing the initiatives to be placed on the ballot. mayor Bill Shearon voted “nay,” citing a last-minute exhibit from city attorney ricinda perry. Shearon, who has low vision, could not read the submission, which detailed insufficiencies with the petitions. cnoBB members were seeking three charter amendments — removal of the city four-ward representative system so all commissioners represent the city at-large, amending residency requirements for

Attorney Bob Hendrickson, left, Reed Mapes and Bill Vincent discuss options Aug. 29 before a special commission meeting called to finalize the citizens initiative for the Nov. 7 ballot. Islander Photo: ChrisAnn Silver Esformes

elected officials from 24 months to the state-approved 12-month minimum, and a measure to prohibit changes to the city charter by resolution. if approved by electors, this action would require a citizen vote to amend the charter. cnoBB member reed mapes delivered the petitions to city clerk terri Sanclemente aug. 9, who submitted them Aug. 14 for verification of voter signatures to the manatee county Supervisor of elections. However, along with the petitions, Sanclemente submitted a memo drafted by herself and perry, citing “insufficiencies” in the petitions. at an aug. 17 commission meeting, perry said it takes the city about a month to draft an ordinance, which would be required to amend the charter, and there is not enough time to get it on the november ballot. She suggested appointing a charter review committee to give people the opportunity to change the charter. city commissioners directed perry to draft a resolution to initiate a new charter review committee. additionally, the commission directed Sanclemente to continue to processing the initiative to amend the city charter by referendum, with an understanding that the questions likely would not be on the ballot. in an aug. 22 email to Sanclemente, attorney Bob Hendrickson with Harrison & Kirkland, p.a. of Bradenton, representing cnoBB, wrote that the initiatives can be placed on the ballot by ordinance or petition, according to state statutes. “frankly, a little common sense would make the distinction between an ordinance and a petition very clear,” Hendrickson wrote. “Why would the Legislature allow electors of a municipality to petition for changes to the city charter and allow the city council to veto the petition by refusing to adopt an ordinance?” He closed the letter saying the city is obligated to place the initiatives on the ballot. and, if it does not, he has been directed to pursue the matter with the circuit court.

at an aug. 28 meeting, city commissioners voted to direct Sanclemente to deliver the petitions to the Soe with a cover sheet from perry stating her legal objections to the initiatives. in response to the commission decision, mapes said, “i think it’s wonderful. We won. We’ve shown we can come in here with citizen’s signatures and make a change.”

Holmes Beach city clerk Stacey Johnston receives recognition from Mayor Bob Johnson at the Aug. 22 Holmes Beach city meeting. Islander Photo: Terry O’Connor

Holmes Beach clerk honored

city clerk Stacey Johnston, in her 10th year at Holmes Beach, was given recognition from the state city clerk’s association by mayor Bob Johnson at the aug. 22 meeting of the Holmes Beach city commission. Johnson presented the award from the florida association of city clerks to Johnston for her efforts while serving as district director in 2016-17. — Terry O’Connor

6 n Aug. 30, 2017 n THE ISLANDER

Opinion

Our

Eclipse, sharknado, skeeters

oh my! it seems nothing much can overshadow the power of mother nature. and she can be at her best one minute and quickly about-face. Yes, she can change her mind. “Wow!” We heard person after person exclaim after sharing our safety glasses with those who casually walked about the anna maria island centre shops as they got their first glimpse of the Aug. 21 solar eclipse. the view of the glowing orange sun nearly disappearing behind the jet black moon — even while sunny and bright to the naked eye — was exciting for the 80-plus people we encountered. a day worth remembering. Within days, we were shocked by huge waterspouts forming offshore — seemingly dangerously close, but the “sharknado” was moving away from the coast into the gulf of mexico. these large, spinning funnels of water were visible for miles inland, forming and dissipating before our eyes — much too close for comfort. and now, thanks to a tropical wave of rain, we can expect another onslaught of skeeters. those pesky, buzzing, bloodsucking, lurking, disease causing, itch producing — did i say biting — minuscule monsters that can explode in numbers after heavy rains. expect more. this skeeter season is not over. the only good news about skeeters is their part in the food chain. Feeding dragonflies, bats and some birds. contributing to mother nature on anna maria island are the volunteer turtle watchers, helping to provide a friendly habitat for female loggerheads and a path for hatchlings on their trek to the gulf. Just remember … Lights out! the tiny loggerheads are counting on us to return darkness to the beach. in this case, you can help mother nature. finally, who isn’t seeing the devastating photos and video coming from texas of the struggle to survive Hurricane Harvey? and who among us isn’t imaging what could happen here as we watch those images of the southern texas coastline, the people struggling to survive in rockport, the massive destruction? We fear the worst. it could easily be mirrored on anna maria island if such a catastrophic storm were to come our way. We feel the urge to help in the wake of Harvey, but how? How can we calm mother nature? — Bonner Joy

AUG. 30, 2017 • Vol. 25, No. 44 ▼ ▼

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Publisher and Editor Bonner Joy, news@islander.org Editorial Lisa Neff, copy editor Sandy Ambrogi, sandy@islander.org Bianca Benedí, bianca@islander.org Joe Bird, editorial cartoonist Kevin Cassidy, kevin@islander.org Jack Elka, jack@jackelka.com ChrisAnn Silver Esformes, chrisann@islander.org Terry O’Connor, terryo@islander.org Kathy Prucnell, kathyp@islander.org Ed Scott, edscott@islander.org Contributors Jesse Brisson Karen Riley-Love Capt. Danny Stasny, ﬁsh@islander.org Advertising Director Toni Lyon, toni@islander.org Office Staff Lisa Williams, manager Christi Burton accounting@islander.org classiﬁeds@islander.org subscriptions@islander.org Distribution Urbane Bouchet Judy Loden Wasco Ross Roberts (All others: news@islander.org)

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IT’S THE ZOMBIE MOSQUITO APOCALYPSE

Opinion

Your

Admitting a mistake?

in his recent statement of his intent to run for Bradenton Beach mayor, commissioner John chappie stated, and i quote, “i’ve learned from my mistakes, and i’m not afraid to admit my mistakes.” My questions to him: Would you say voting to file suit against the volunteer citizens of the city at a recent meeting was a mistake? if yes, then what should be done to rectify the mistake? if no, then how do you justify your vote? Bradenton Beach mayor Bill Shearon was the only member of the commission to put the brakes on and state that there needed to be time to get more information. Carol Harrington, Bradenton Beach

Destroying the volunteer force

threatening the commission, in essence saying: Join my suit, pay my attorney or i will sue the city. i am not accusing clarke of extortion, but that’s the word outraged people are using. What’s best for the city is to withdraw from the suit, or, at least, alter the demands. Janie Robertson, Bradenton Beach

Number of resignations grows

the number of voluntary resignations from Bradenton Beach city committees continues to grow daily. it’s obvious people are uncomfortable serving a city that chooses to sue its own citizens. as you may know, at the urging of the city attorney, Bradenton Beach commissioners decided to take part in a lawsuit against some members of the planning and zoning and the Scenic Waves committees, alleging violations of the Sunshine Law. one has to wonder: • Why did the city attorney and the commissioners decide to take such drastic action against citizens who volunteer their time to serve their community? • Why are the city attorney and the four commissioners driven to punish these individuals? elections are coming up later this year. i urge all voting citizens to become familiar with the names of the commissioners who voted in favor of this outrageous action before you cast your votes nov. 7. Patricia Shay, Bradenton Beach

former Bradenton Beach mayor Jack clarke’s attorney, stated he “.…will be seeking the best interest of the city and the citizens of Bradenton Beach.” obviously, clarke feels destroying the volunteer force in the city is a righteous thing to do. to date, there have been nine resignations from two boards and now neither board has a quorum. So, is all this really in the best interest of the city? two vital boards have been decimated. Without ScenicWaVeS, our Scenic Highway and tree city uSa designations are threatened. Who wants to serve a city that sues volunteer board members? false statements, assumptions and conclusions Losing volunteers in were made in this suit, which the city commission did Bradenton Beach not see or read before city attorney ricinda perry and i have been fortunate to serve on the Scenic Waves Vice mayor John chappie convinced them to join in committee for the past two years. i was saddened to with clarke and pay his retainer fee. the suit demands that the six accused volunteers learn of resignations on the committee. forced or sudden resignations without discussion pay all legal fees, if they are judged to have made even is not how our system ought to function. minute infractions of the Sunshine Law. many people feel clarke extorted the city by pLeaSe See oPinion, next page

THE ISLANDER n Aug. 30, 2017 n 7

Key time for Mote

Dr. James Mead gives a report on dolphin necropsies at Mote Marine Laboratory in Sarasota County in July 1976. At the time, the laboratory was located on Siesta Key. However, 1976 was the year an agreement was reached between Mote, the Arvida Corporation and the city of Sarasota for the lab to lease 6.7 acres of land on City Island for $1 a year. Islander Photo: Manatee County Library Historic Images Collection oPinion continued from page 6 i want to highlight to our community our mission statement: We are “dedicated to the health and vitality of the citizenry and industry of Bradenton Beach. as an advisory committee we will: facilitate visioning and aid in enabling visions to fruition, be forward-thinking and forward-acting toward the livability of our community, take an active role in communication so that all may be aware of opportunities, make the preservation and enhancement of our natural resources a priority in decision making, advocate public and private partnerships, and always remember our history and its role in our future.” Scenic Waves works hard to enhance the livability of our community. Sometimes we try and miss, but the dedication of our volunteer committee is a priority. i appreciate its members, who ensure we are fulfilling our mission. I am disheartened the committee’s efforts have been overshadowed. This incident could be rectified with simple communication as opposed to extreme measures and a lawsuit. if infractions were committed, they were not done with malice. We take seriously our mission to ensure all in our community hear about the opportunities we

strive to create and implement. as president of a chamber of commerce, i understand how challenging it is in our busy lives to find people who are able to take on time-consuming volunteer roles that our communities benefit from. our committee and dedicated chair tjet martin are an integral part of these initiatives. thank you for allowing your local chamber to be a part of the team. In this era of diversity, conflicts and partisanship, it is important to remember that “we are human beings, not perfect beings.” We may not always agree but our citizens’ efforts make our local communities a better, safer and more beautiful place to live. Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce president Deb Wing

Have your say

the islander accepts original letters of up to 250 words and reserves the right to edit for grammar and length. Letters must include name, address and a contact phone number (for verification). Anonymous letters will not be printed. email: news@islander.org. readers also may comment on stories online at islander.org.

We’d love to mail you the news!

10&20 years ago

In the headlines: Aug. 27, 1997

• The Florida Department of Environmental protection announced it would collect “rent” from businesses and some residents using state-owned underwater lands. dep said the state owned all “tidally influenced water bodies” to 10 miles out in the gulf, as well as rivers and lakes that were “navigable at statehood.” • A proposed cell tower was approved by the Holmes Beach city commission and then vetoed by the mayor. the commission then adopted on second reading an ordinance enacting a six-month moratorium on the construction of cell towers. • The Florida Supreme Court upheld a constitutional amendment approved by voters in November 1994 that banned gill net fishing in state waters. the court said the amendment did not violate the rights of commercial fishers.

In the headlines: Aug. 29, 2007

• Holmes Beach officials, chamber of commerce leaders and Key royale residents gathered for a ribbon-cutting on the rebuilt Key royale Bridge. the bridge was dedicated to veterans of the u.S. armed forces. • The Manatee County Tourist Development council signed off on dedicating $26,000 to maintain a fare-free trolley on the island. facing budget cuts, county officials had asked the TDC and the anna maria island chamber of commerce to commit about $50,000 a year to the trolley. • Anna Maria Elementary students and staff were settling into a new school year, and so were parents, who were supporting new officers to the ame parent-teacher organization. president Joy murphy said her goal was to boost pto spirit.

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Mosquitoes expected ‘in force’ on AMI following Harvey rains

By Bianca Benedí Islander Reporter Mosquitoes are annoying on Anna Maria Island. Anna Maria resident Dolores Knutson has noticed them swarming in her backyard. She also noticed an increase in helicopters passing over her home, spraying pesticide to eliminate them. It did make a difference, she noted. But calls requesting insecticide treatment in Manatee County dropped from 400 a week to less than 10 from June to mid-August. However, with the tropical rainfall in the past week, mosquitoes will return in full force, warns Manatee County Mosquito Control director Mark Latham. So more aerial spraying is likely to occur. “Most mosquitoes … lay eggs that remain dormant till they’re flooded,” Latham said. “That’s how you go from none to a ton.” A week after heavy rainfall, he says, you’ll notice the mosquito population boom. It hadn’t rained heavily on Anna Maria Island since Tropical Storm Emily in July, Latham said, which left water reservoirs and swamps dried up, where mosquito eggs are waiting to hatch. The average rainfall for the island doesn’t drop significantly until October, and warm wet winters aren’t unusual, Latham said, making it impossible to predict how the county’s mosquitoes will behave. So far, it’s been an active season. Five times this year, starting in June, parts of Anna Maria Island were aerially sprayed with an insecticide by Manatee County Mosquito Control to reduce the insect population. That’s more than twice the amount of spraying seen on the island since 2011, according to MCMC records. In 2015 and 2016, the island was sprayed once each year. From 2012 to 2014, it was sprayed twice a year, and the island was not sprayed at all in 2011. In addition, aerial spraying in Manatee County started in February this year, earlier than any year since 2011, when online records begin. And larvicide treatments, which prevent newly hatched mosquitoes from growing past the juvenile stage, have been applied four times this year on Anna Maria Island, most recently July 27, after a weekend of heavy rainfall. Latham said how often MCMC needs to spray is determined by a number of factors, including environmental ones. He said an early start to the wet season produced a large population of adult mosquitoes for MCMC to combat. The other problem, he said, is the vacation rentals.

Katie Williams, MCMC biology intern, blows mosquitoes into containers that have been treated with diluted pesticide solutions to identify whether any species are developing a resistance to the chemicals.

Dolores Knutson stands in her canalfront backyard in Anna Maria. She says mosquitoes lay eggs on the brackish water in the canal. According to Knutson, with each rainfall, some of the eggs hatch, unleashing a new wave of biting, irritating mosquitoes. Islander Photos: Bianca Benedí

Anna Maria’s aedes aegypti problem In Anna Maria, the most common mosquito around is the aedes aegypti, more famously known as the mosquito that transmits Zika, yellow fever and other diseases harmful to humans. The aedes aegypti is an urban mosquito that favors containers over natural breeding grounds — and Anna Maria has more of these mosquitoes than any other place in Manatee County. According to MCMC, Anna Maria is ripe for these pesky mosquitoes because of the heavy development, as well as the number of vacation homes. As more of the island is developed, more breeding grounds for the urban mosquito are built, resulting in a steadily growing population of mosquitoes. “More and more of these homes are being converted and the homeowners responsible are no longer there,” MCMC assistant director Christopher Lesser said. “Vacationers aren’t going to take care of the property or worry about mosquitoes. They aren’t going to worry about cutting the grass or overturning 5-gallon buckets,” he said. In addition, homes owned by snowbirds that are vacant in the summer months also serve as mosquito

breeding grounds, according to Latham. There hasn’t been a mosquito-born infection in Manatee in years, according to Manatee County Department of Health representative Tom Iovino. The handful of cases of Zika that were registered in the past two years came from travelers and aedes aegypti rarely travel more than 1,000 feet from their hatch site. There aren’t any cases of disease transmission in Manatee County, and that may not be by coincidence. Latham said after dengue was reported in the Florida Keys in 2009, Manatee amped up its treatment of mosquitoes that spread illnesses like dengue and Zika. Before, he said, those mosquitoes were considered a “backyard nuisance” that MCMC would not specifically target. In addition, he said, the Zika threat has amped up public attention around mosquitoes. Knutson said she noticed the increase in helicopter flyovers. The longtime islander has been keeping track of when MCMC sends a helicopter to spray pesticide over the island. “Aerial spraying used to be minimal and now I see them doing it as a course of operation,” Knutson said. Please see mosquitoes, Next page

Meetings Anna Maria City • Sept. 12, 4 p.m., planning and zoning. • Sept. 14, 6 p.m., city commission (budget hearing). • Sept. 28, 6 p.m., city commission (budget hearing). • Oct. 10, 2 p.m., planning and zoning. • Oct. 12, 6 p.m., city commission. • Oct. 26, 6 p.m., city commission. Anna Maria City Hall, 10005 Gulf Drive, 941708-6130, cityofannamaria.com.

West Manatee Fire Rescue • None announced. WMFR administration building, 6417 Third Ave. W., Bradenton, wmfr.org.

Manatee County • Sept. 7, 9 a.m., commission (land use). • Sept. 12, 9 a.m., commission. • Sept. 18, 6 p.m., commission (budget hearing). • Sept. 20, 9 a.m., commission (land use). • Sept. 25, 6:30 p.m., commission (budget hearBradenton Beach ing). • Through Sept. 1, election qualifying period. • Sept. 26, 9 a.m., commission. • Sept. 7, 5:05 p.m., city commission (budget • Sept. 29, 9 a.m., commission (land use if hearing). needed). • Sept. 21, 5:05 p.m., city commission (budget Administration building, 1112 Manatee Ave. W., hearing). Bradenton, 941-748-4501, mymanatee.org. Bradenton Beach City Hall, 107 Gulf Drive N., 941-778-1005, cityofbradentonbeach.org. Of interest • Aug. 31, 5 p.m., Florida Department of TransHolmes Beach portation public hearing for the Cortez Bridge, Kirk• Through Sept. 1, election qualifying period. wood Presbyterian Church, 6101 Cortez Road W., • Sept. 6, 6 p.m., planning commission. Bradenton. • Sept. 12, 6 p.m., city commission (budget • Sept. 4, Labor Day, most government offices hearing). and The Islander office will be closed. • Sept. 14, 6 p.m., city commission. Sept. 5, 5:45 p.m., School Board of Manatee • Sept. 21, code enforcement (time to be deter- County (budget hearing), school support center, 215 mined). Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton. • Sept. 26, 6 p.m., city commission (budget • Sept. 11, 2 p.m., Island Transportation Planning hearing). Organization, Anna Maria City Hall. • Sept. 28, 6 p.m., city commission. • Sept. 20, 2 p.m., Coalition of Barrier Island • Oct. 4, 10 a.m., parks and beautification. Elected Officials, Anna Maria City Hall. • Oct. 26, 11:30 a.m., police retirement board. • Oct. 9, 2 p.m., Island Transportation Planning Holmes Beach City Hall, 5801 Marina Drive, Organization, Anna Maria City Hall. 941-708-5800, holmesbeachfl.org. Send notices to news@islander.org.

THE ISLANDER n Aug. 30, 2017 n 9

Barbara Bayern, MCMC entomologist, identifies mosquito species caught in a trap.

MCMC director Mark Latham holds untreated corn pieces that will be sprayed with insecticide and then distributed by MCMC helicopters.

Mark Latham, director of Manatee County Mosquito Control, points to a navigation system Aug. 22 inside an MCMC helicopter that directs the pilot to areas that require spraying. Mosquitoes continued from page 8 Knutson said she remembers when the MCMC mostly used fogging trucks to control mosquitoes. However, she said, the insecticide used by foggers only disperses about 20 feet to the side. “By air … it spreads the pesticide more, getting into the yards,” she said. “It’s something someone smarter than me has made a decision about. You can’t do anything about it,” she said, adding that MCMC “reassured me that the stuff is non-harmful.” The safety factor Manatee County uses a number of products to treat mosquitoes but, on Anna Maria Island, primarily uses Fyfanon, a concentrated formulation of the insecticide Malathion, which is only available to public health officials, according to Latham. Fyfanon is considered hazardous in direct contact and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency advises against breathing the sprayed mist up close. However, the EPA has approved it for use as a wide-area mosquito adulticide, and it’s distributed by MCMC widely enough that no strong spurts of insecticide should fall anywhere. MCMC also uses Altosid, a formulation of the larvicide Methophrene, which mimics juvenile mosquito hormones and discourages mosquitoes from developing into adults, according to Latham. MCMC applies the larvicide to broken corncob granules, Latham said, which are then distributed and digested by mosquito larvae. Aerial spraying has had a notable affect on the mosquito population, Knutson said. However, she also noticed a decrease in dragonflies, which eat mosquitoes — possibly due to a decrease in their food supply. Latham says the insecticides can affect other species, such as honeybees, so MCMC sprays strategically. Mosquitoes are active in the evenings, which is when MCMC sprays. Honeybees and dragonflies are flying and feeding by day, so the insecticides do not directly impact them. However, spraying is only done when necessary and near human populations in order to avoid any extensive ecological impact, Latham said, adding that insecticide is a poison. Aeges aegypti have at most a three-week life span, Latham said. In order to catch and then transmit diseases, they must be alive for at least 10 days, he said. Aerial spraying and larvicide treatments are part of MCMC’s strategy to keep mosquitoes from spreading disease and becoming a nuisance to the local population. Any person can request an MCMC review of his or her property and a spray in their area on its website at www.manateemosquito.com.

Let the magic begin...

ou came to Anna Maria Island to escape, to discover the beaches, the warm breezes and a slower pace, and maybe you fell in love … with sea turtles! Anna Maria Island is sea turtle friendly in nesting season, May through October. We invite you to experience everything we have to oﬀer, especially the thrill of seeing nature in action. Mother turtles lay their nests on our beaches at night, leaving their eggs

to incubate in the warm sand. As the mother turtle leaves, she is guided by her instincts to the Gulf of Mexico by the natural “sparkle” on the water, the reﬂection of the moon and stars. The darker the beach and the surroundings, the better. The same is true for the hatchlings. You can take part in this phenomenon, help sea turtles and discover what islanders already know about the magic of

island life. But you must be stealth. You must be silent and invisible. Never shine a ﬂashlight on sea turtles. And, please, keep lights visible from the shoreline out or shielded by blinds or curtains. Be safe on the beach and carry your ﬂashlight but, please, resist temptation.

LIGHTS OUT for SEA TURTLES!

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10 n Aug. 30, 2017 n THE ISLANDER

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The Islander Calendar ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

GAMES, SPORTS & OUTDOORS

ONGOING ON ANNA MARIA ISLAND

• Throughout August, Patrick O’Neill exhibits his acrylic paintings in “Wild and Wonderful,” Island Gallery West, 5368 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6648. • Throughout August, Artists’ Guild Gallery exhibits “Sunrise/ Sunset,” 5414 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-7786694. • Throughout September, Shirley Rush Dean exhibits her artwork in “New Directions,” Island Gallery West, 5368 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6648. • Throughout September, Artists’ Guild Gallery exhibits “Weather Forecast,” 5414 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-7786694.

• Wednesdays and Saturdays, 9 a.m., horseshoes pitched, Anna Maria City Hall, 10005 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria. Information: 941-7086130. • Fridays, usually 1 p.m., mahjong games, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341.

• Through Sept. 3, Bradenton Marauders Minor League Baseball games, LECOM Park, 1611 Ninth St. W., Bradenton. Fee applies. Information: 877-893-2827. • Second and fourth Wednesdays, Roser Memorial Community Church Golfing for God, IMG Academy Golf Club, 4350 El Conquistador Parkway, Bradenton. Fee applies. Info: 941-778-0414. LOOKING AHEAD • Through the summer, intermediate bridge, 10:30 a.m. Fridays, Sept. 23, Anna Maria Island Privateers Talk Like a Pirate Day Aging in Paradise Resource Center, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, party, Bradenton Beach. Sept. 21-Oct. 1, Island Players’ “Happy Longboat Key. Fee applies. Information: 941-383-6493. Birthday,” Anna Maria. Oct. 21, AMI Chamber of Commerce Bayfest, CLUBS & Anna Maria. OFF AMI LOOKING AHEAD

Submit your social news to news@islander.org. Please, include the time, date and location for events, as well as a contact name and phone number for publication. And, thanks for sharing!

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COMMUNITY

On ANNA MARIA ISLAND Oct. 14, Florida Maritime Museum Cortez Nautical Flea Market, Cortez. Feb. 17-18, 2018, Florida Institute for Saltwater Heritage’s Thursday, Aug. 31 10 a.m. — Quilting club, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Cortez Commercial Fishing Festival, Cortez. Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341. KIDS & FAMILY Wednesday, Sept. 6 On Anna Maria Island 12:45 p.m. — Gulf Coast Writers meeting, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341. Wednesday, Aug. 30 ONGOING ON ANNA MARIA ISLAND 3:30-4:30 p.m. — Back-to-school party with refreshments, crafts, prizes and games, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes • Second and fourth Wednesdays, 11 a.m. Just Older Youth/ Beach. Information: 941-778-6341. JOY Brown Bag Lunch Series, Roser Memorial Community Church, Friday, Sept. 1 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Information: 941-778-0414. 10 a.m. — Forty Carrots parenting program, Island Library, • Thursdays, 9 a.m.-noon, Manatee County Veteran Services 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341. Divisions counseling and assistance, Island Library, 5701 Marina ONGOING ON AMI

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ONGOING OFF ANNA MARIA ISLAND

• Wednesdays, 5:30 p.m., beginning Sept. 6, Wednesday Night Blast, CrossPointe Fellowship, 8605 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-0719. • Fourth Wednesdays, 7 p.m., “Stelliferous Live” star exploration, South Florida Museum, 201 10th St. W., Bradenton. Fee applies. Information: 941-746-4131. • Most first Saturdays, Family Night at the South Florida Museum, 201 10th St. W., Bradenton. Fee. Info: 941-746-4131. • Tuesdays, 3:15 p.m., beginning Sept. 5, after-school children’s choir, Roser Memorial Community Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Information: 941-778-0414. • “Teeth Beneath: the Wild World of Gators, Crocs and Caimans” exhibit, Mote Marine Aquarium, 1600 Ken Thompson Parkway, City Island, Sarasota. Fee applies. Information: 941-388-4441.

GOOD DEEDS Volunteer opportunities

Looking for volunteer opportunities on or around Anna Maria Island? These organizations are seeking help: • The Center of Anna Maria Island, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria, is seeking volunteers. Volunteer orientations take place at noon and 6 p.m. the first Thursday of each month. Information: 941778-1908. • The Roser Food Bank needs donations of cash and nonperishable food. The pantry is administered by Roser Memorial Community Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Information: 941778-0414. • The Anna Maria Island Historical Society, 402 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, seeks volunteers to serve as docents and in other ways. Information: 813-758-3234. • Manatee County Parks and Natural Resources Department seeks volunteers to help create oyster mats and oyster gardens at Robinson Preserve, 1704 99th St. NW, Bradenton, during open hours. Information: 941-742-5923, ext. 6035. • Moonracer Animal Rescue seeks volunteers to offer foster and forever homes for rescued animals. Information: 941-345-2441. • Manatee Community Concert Band seeks volunteers for its 2017-18 concert season. Information: 260-410-4126. Email calendar@islander.org to issue a call for volunteers.

Submit 2017-18 event listings to calendar@islander.org.

Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341. • Thursdays, 9:30 a.m., Concerned Neighbors of Bradenton Beach steering committee meeting, Pines Park Clubhouse, 103 Church Ave., Bradenton Beach. Information: 941-730-7715. • Thursdays, 7 p.m., Overeaters Anonymous meets, the Episcopal Church of the Annunciation, 4408 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 813-494-6518. CANCELED • Third Thursdays, 11:45 a.m., Successful Women Aligning Together meets, Bridge Street Bistro, 111 Gulf Drive S., Bradenton Beach. Fee applies. Information: 941-345-5135. • Saturdays, 8:30 a.m., Kiwanis Club of Anna Maria Island breakfast meeting, Anna Maria Island Beach Cafe, 4000 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-1383. • Second and fourth Tuesdays, Concerned Neighbors of Bradenton Beach general membership meetings, Annie Silver Community Center, 103 23rd St. N., Bradenton Beach. Information: 941730-7715. Looking ahead • Sept. 14, Blessing Bags Project fundraiser, Cortez.

GOOD TO KNOW Save the dates • Sept. 4, Labor Day. • Sept.11, Patriot Day. • Sept. 22, first day of autumn.

S. Rush Dean’s 20x24 painting “Cortez Pond” is on display at Island Gallery West in Holmes Beach.

Island happenings

THE ISLANDER n Aug. 30, 2017 n 11

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S. Rush Dean, with her acrylic painting “Cortez Pond,” will be the featured artist in September at Island Gallery West in Holmes Beach. Islander Courtesy Photo

Check the ‘Forecast’

The Artists’ Guild of Anna Maria Island invites people to check the “Weather Forecast,” which is on exhibit at the Artists’ Guild Gallery in the Island Shopping Center at 5414 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, throughout September. The exhibit includes “Waterspout,” a photograph by Phil Jensen. For more information, call the gallery at 941-778-6694. Islander Courtesy Photo

Library hosts veteran services

the island Library is now hosting a representative from the manatee county Veteran Services division to provide assistance, information and referral. the representative will be at the library, 5701 marina drive, Holmes Beach, 9 a.m.-noon thursdays. for more, call the library at 941-778-6341.

Back-to-school celebration at library

a back-to-school party will be held 3:30-4:30 p.m. Wednesday, aug. 30, at the island Library, 5701 marina drive, Holmes Beach. an announcement said, “there will be refreshments, kids crafts, prizes and fun for all! children who sign up for a new library card can enter to win a Kindle paperwhite.” also, the special guest at the party will be manatee county commissioner carol Whitmore. for more, call the library at 941-778-6341.

Studio to host painting event

the Studio at gulf and pine will host a plein air painting event Saturday, Sept. 30. painters of all levels and ages are invited to participate in the event, which will begin at 9 a.m. and culminate at about noon at the venue at the corner of gulf drive and pine avenue in anna maria. there is no charge to participate. afterward, participants will gather at the Sandbar, 100 Spring ave., anna maria, for lunch. for more information, contact cory Wright at cmurals@verizon.net or 813-758-7057.

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Island Gallery West showcases ‘New Directions’

S. rush dean, a Bradenton acrylics and oils artist, will be the featured artist in September at island gallery West. dean enjoyed a 20-year career teaching design, drawing and color theory at the university of maryland and design at the corcoran School of art in Washington, d.c. She is a longtime member of island gallery West and is known for her compelling beach scenes landscapes. dean’s September exhibit is called “new directions.” island gallery West is at 5368 gulf drive, Holmes Beach. for more information, call the gallery at 941-7786648.

Kiwanis setting schedule

the Kiwanis club of anna maria island will hold board meetings Saturday, Sept. 9, as well as oct. 14 and nov. 11. the club will host the following speakers at its weekly Saturday morning gatherings at the anna maria island Beach cafe at the manatee public Beach, 4000 gulf drive, Holmes Beach: • Sept. 16, Melissa Ferlazzon, education program manager for Junior achievement of Sarasota/manatee. • Sept. 23, Diana Dill, vice president of development for meals on Wheels plus. • Sept. 30, Janene Amick, development director for manatee players. • Oct 28, Manatee County Commissioner Betsy Benac. • Nov 4, Bobbie Price, president of Guardian angels of SW florida. • Nov 18, Christine Skit of Odyssey of the mind. • Dec. 2, Danielle Hummel, vestibular director/clinical audiologist for manatee Hearing and Speech center. club members gather for breakfast at 8 a.m., followed by the program at 8:30 a.m. for more information, call Sandy Haas-martens at 941-778-1383.

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12 n Aug. 30, 2017 n THE ISLANDER

Palmetto Art Center gets into â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Sunshine State of Mindâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;

The Palmetto Art Center invites the public to get into a â&#x20AC;&#x153;Sunshine State of Mind,â&#x20AC;? an exhibit featuring photographic works by NatashaÂ Joffer, serigraph prints by LindaÂ Molto and Florida Highwaymen paintings by Mary Ann Carroll, Livingston Roberts, Sam Newton, Robert L. Lewis, Robert Butler, JohnÂ Maynor and Al Black. A reception celebrating the exhibit and recognizing the artists will be 5-9 p.m. Friday, Sept. 8. One of the PAC galleries will feature the work of LindaÂ Molto, a master ofÂ serigraphicÂ technique â&#x20AC;&#x201D; otherwise known as silk screening, although according to a news release sheâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s reinvented the process to create an atypically painterly effect. MoltoÂ has been a Cortez village resident for 25 years and finds inspiration for her art in the Florida Institute for Salt Water Heritage wetlands that are near her home. More than two dozen signed, limited-edition prints will be for sale, including some vintage serigraphs from the mid-1980s. Natasha Jofferâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s photographic works will be on display in PACâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s main gallery. Joffer, in a news release, said, â&#x20AC;&#x153;The little things, how we pass by every day the simple beauty that surrounds us. As I wander with my camera, I have increasingly been drawn to those details.â&#x20AC;? Another show will feature 15 works by Florida Highwaymen, a group of 26 African-American artists who used vivid and bright colors to display the beautiful, untouched Florida landscape. The Florida Highwaymen painted wind-bent palm trees, serene sunsets, churning oceans and bright red Poinciana trees. They painted from their garages and backyards on UpsonÂ board and then on the weekends they would travel and sell their Highwaymen paintings to hotels, offices, businesses and individuals who

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Undone,â&#x20AC;? a serigraph by LindaÂ Molto, will be on view and for sale at the Palmetto Art Center in Sunshine State of Mind. Islander Courtesy Images

A painting by Florida Highwaymen artist Sam Newton. appreciated the artwork for around $25 a piece. Now the market for an original work by a Florida Highwayman can bring $5,000. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Sunshine State of Mindâ&#x20AC;? will be open to the public with no admission fee. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Awakeningâ&#x20AC;? by Natasha Joffer., whose work The center is at 907 Fifth St. W., Palmetto. For more information, call PAC at 941-518- will be featured at the Palmetto Art Center in September. 2109.

Island Library sets September schedule

The Island Library in Holmes Beach will begin 12:45 p.m. September with a parenting program at 10 a.m. Friday, â&#x20AC;˘ Thursday, Sept. 7, knit and crochet activity, 1 Sept. 1. p.m. The schedule also includes: â&#x20AC;˘ Friday, Sept. 8, Forty Carrots parenting program, â&#x20AC;˘ Friday, Sept. 1, mahjong games, 1 p.m. 10 a.m. â&#x20AC;˘ Wednesday, Sept. 6, Gulf Coast Writers meets, â&#x20AC;˘ Friday, Sept. 8, mahjong games, 11 a.m. â&#x20AC;˘ Friday, Sept. 8, Alzheimerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Caregiver Support Group meets, 2 p.m. â&#x20AC;˘ Saturday, Sept. 9, origami crafting, 10 a.m. â&#x20AC;˘ Tuesday, Sept. 12, preschool storytime, 10 a.m. â&#x20AC;˘ Tuesday, Sept. 12, basic computer instruction, 2 p.m. â&#x20AC;˘ Wednesday, Sept. 13, adult coloring club meets, noon. â&#x20AC;˘ Wed, Sept. 13, chess club meets, 4 p.m. â&#x20AC;˘ Friday, Sept. 15, mahjong games, 1 p.m. â&#x20AC;˘ Saturday, Sept. 16, Lego club meets, 2 p.m. â&#x20AC;˘ Tuesday, Sept. 19, preschool story time, 10 a.m. â&#x20AC;˘ Thursday, Sept. 21, book club, 10:15 a.m. The Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, HB.

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â&#x20AC;˘ Thursday, Sept. 21, knit and crochet activity, 1 p.m. â&#x20AC;˘ Friday, Sept. 22, Forty Carrots Parenting Program, 10 a.m. â&#x20AC;˘ Friday, Sept. 22, mahjong games, 1 p.m. â&#x20AC;˘ Saturday, Sept. 23, kidsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; crafts, 2 p.m. â&#x20AC;˘ Tuesday, Sept. 26, preschool storytime, 10 a.m. â&#x20AC;˘ Wed, Sept. 27, adult coloring club meets, noon. â&#x20AC;˘ Wed, Sept. 27, chess club meets, 4 p.m. â&#x20AC;˘ Thursday, Sept. 28, quilting activity, 10 a.m. â&#x20AC;˘ Friday, Sept. 29, Forty Carrots Parenting Program, 10 a.m. â&#x20AC;˘ Friday, Sept. 29, mahjong games, 1 p.m. â&#x20AC;˘ Saturday, Sept. 30, CPR training, 9 a.m. The library is at 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. For more information, call the library at 941-7786341.

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THE ISLANDER n Aug. 30, 2017 n 13

Commissioner ‘very disturbed’ by city stance on boat canopies

By terry o’connor islander reporter commissioner Jean peelen was not at the aug. 24 Holmes Beach city commission work session. But she made her presence felt. “i am very disturbed about how the city has behaved in regard to Westbay and the police boat canopy,” peelen wrote in an email before the session. the work session focused on one issue: boat canopies erected on city property at the 63rd Street boat ramp next to residential development Westbay point & moorings. in January, the city of Holmes Beach installed canopy covers at city-owned docks over two boats in cooperation with the West manatee fire rescue district. the canopies were installed without public input or public notice. the Westbay point & moorings iii board protested and suggested a lawsuit could ensue if the canopies are not removed. peelen wrote the canopies clearly block the residents’ “treasured view” of Watson’s Bayou. She also cited a city ordinance disallowing any boat canopies if the boat is adjacent to a residential area. “that is exactly the case here,” she wrote. peelen noted she lives in Westbay point & moorings, but has no direct interest in the issue other than how it affects her friends and neighbors. Westbay was built in three phases beginning in 1979. each phase is governed by its own board and rules. the boat canopies are next to phase three. peelen lives in phase one. “if a citizen brought a complaint against a fellow citizen for putting a boat canopy on a boat docked bordering a residential area, our code enforcement would simply order the boat owner to remove the canopy,” peelen wrote. the city paid $4,963 to professional land surveyors Leo Mills & Associates Inc. of Palmetto to define the respective riparian rights of the city and Westbay and determine whether the canopies on city property infringe on Westbay property rights. the survey pre-

Leo Mills Jr. presents his riparian rights survey Aug. 24 at a Holmes Beach City Commission work session. Islander Photo: Terry O’Connor sented at the meeting indicates the city is within its rights to use the canopies but it is not definitive, Leo mills Jr. cautioned. “You have to understand this is only my opinion on riparian rights,” mills said. “i cannot guarantee riparian rights.” city attorney patricia petruff said she agrees with the survey and police chief Bill tokajer’s opinion that the canopies are allowable. “i think it’s legal,” petruff said. “i suppose another

Anti-noise campaign

Holmes Beach Police Chief Bill Tokajer announced at the Aug. 22 commission meeting his officers have two new tools to help reduce noise complaints. One is a cartoon sticker for swimming pools asking visitors to keep noise to a “respectful level.” The second is a pamphlet outlining laws regarding noise levels, golf carts, fireworks, beach weddings, parking and wildlife. Islander Photo: Terry O’Connor

Another HB-Bert Harris no-change letter on its way

By terry o’connor islander reporter a Bert Harris claim lodged by a couple who maintain they should be allowed to rent to as many as 20 guests at a time, instead of the 14 occupants allowed by Holmes Beach ordinance, will soon receive a letter of no-change from the city. in lieu of a settlement, the letter will offer no relief from the Holmes Beach regulation that limits occupancy to two people per bedroom. owners John and Suzette Buchan of caledonia, michigan, bought the property feb. 5, 2009, for $275,000 and built a two-story residence on the vacant lot. in 2015, according to the Buchans, the home rented for between $2,100 and $8,000 a week for up to 20 guests at a time. their claim is for a loss in rental income of $70,000. the no-change letter was authorized by city commissioners at their aug. 22 meeting. the Bert Harris Jr. private property rights protection act of 1995 allows property owners to seek relief if they can prove a government action lowered the value of their property. fifty-three claims alleging property value losses from the Holmes Beach short-term rental occupancy ordinance have been filed and the city has refused to negotiate on them. the Buchan property is a corner site accessible from gulf drive or 72nd Street. the interior includes seven bedrooms, ranging from 112 to 163 square feet, and four and a half bathrooms. the city has 150 days to respond to any Bert Harris claim. city responses start the clock on a one-year statute of limitation on claims, according to city attorney patricia petruff.

judge could disagree. it’s a complicated issue.” Westbay property manager robert mcglynn said the riparian survey is useful but does not provide a satisfying final resolution. “people are really hurt about it,” mcglynn said. “it’s emotional. the canopies are a clear visual detriment.” at peelen’s request, city treasurer Lori Hill pegged costs for the city rescue boat at $8,000 annually plus $125 each time it’s fueled. tokajer reportedly told peelen the boat was used in three life-safety incidents during the past three years. in addition to the Holmes Beach police department, at least three other agencies service the island’s water rescue needs: u.S. coast guard, Bradenton Beach marine unit and West manatee fire rescue district, according to peelen. peelen said the city is applying different rules and standards to this situation simply to protect city property. “i am stating this not to say ‘get rid of the boat’ because after all, how would we officials be in parades without the boat, but i am saying this boat may have questionable costs for public safety uses,” peelen wrote. “i think the canopy issue has put us in a very bad light with several hundred of its residents. it does not cover us in glory.” the two boats protected under the canopy have a combined value of roughly $1 million, according to tokajer. titsworth said the canopy issue will be discussed further and decided at a future meeting. “i know my mind’s not made up,” she said. the city commission will next meet at 6 p.m. tuesday, Sept. 12, at city hall, 5801 Marina Drive, for a first reading and public hearing of the budget ordinance followed by a regular session.

HB stop-work order remains, DEP mulls remedy By terry o’connor islander reporter the saga of alleged impropriety at a beachfront Holmes Beach property, 102 77th St., continues as a stop-work order remains in place, preventing demolition of an existing home and construction of its replacement. Building official James McGuinness, who issued the stop-work order July 7, updated the Holmes Beach city commission at its aug. 22 meeting on the florida department of environmental protection review of the case. While cleared of charges of dune destruction by the dep, property owner Shawn Kaleta was required to submit a site “re-vegetation” plan and clear up a permit clouded by a change in ownership. Kaleta’s team submitted a response aug. 17 to the compliance assistance letter sent aug. 1 by the dep, which outlined the need for site remediation and replacement of native vegetation. “the submitted information is currently under review by the department,” wrote dep spokeswoman dee ann miller in an email sent aug. 23 to the islander. the dep also requested ownership information in a July 21 letter to Kaleta in response to his pending permit modification request. The DEP denied the request without prejudice pending fulfillment of several requirements, including formal transfer of title from the original permittee, Seahorse of Holmes

Beach inc. “The permit has been issued to a specific property owner and is not valid for any other person unless formally transferred,” said dep permit manager S. muthuswamy in a letter denying the permit modification. the initial state permit expires July 6, 2019. Kaleta was given 180 days to respond to the dep denial letter with proof the project is in compliance with Holmes Beach building codes, sufficient evidence of ownership, construction schedule and swimming pool drainage plans. “please include any plans for restoring unauthorized impacted areas,” muthuswamy wrote. “no work shall proceed under the permit until the new owner has received a copy of the transfer agreement approved by the department.” Kaleta did not respond to requests for comment. the red tag requires work be suspended, citing destruction of a dune system and failure to comply with the dep permit. after an on-site investigation July 13, the dep ruled no dune destruction took place. mcguinness also said clearance of vegetation on the property for the beachfront pool exceeded the 1,200-square-foot allowance by 6,300 square feet or 6.25 times the authorized area. the 1,398-square-foot home built in 1950 last sold in 2016 for $2.2 million.

14 n Aug. 30, 2017 n THE ISLANDER

County — again — postpones decision on Aqua development

By Kathy prucnell islander reporter get rid of the wall, lagoon and high-rises. it’s the message sent by cortezians, environmentalists and some manatee county commissioners about the plans for aqua by the Bay. “i think the citizens of cortez would accept that,” Jane von Hahmann said after an aug. 23 hearing before the manatee Board of county commissioners ended in a continuance to Sept. 29. the board will discuss and possibly vote on the development at the continued hearing. at the second Bocc hearing in as many weeks, developers carlos Beruff and Larry Lieberman, representing the applicant Long Bar pointe LLLp and cargor partners Viii, stayed the course for a 191-acre rezone and a general development plan. the plan includes a 2-mile man-made lagoon, also being called an estuary enhancement area by the developer, and a wall between the upland and the swath of mangroves fronting Sarasota Bay. Beruff and developers’ attorney ed Vogler made some concessions — promising to build no higher than 95 feet, prohibit motorized boats in the lagoon and stagger buildings to prevent “the wall effect.” aqua proposes to bring 2,384 multi-family units, 510 single-family homes and 78,000 square feet of commercial space on 529 acres between the bay and el conquistador parkway southeast of cortez. new at this hearing was a four-building move. four proposed 145-foot buildings were eliminated from the plan, while four 76- and 95-foot-tall buildings were added, increasing that number to 16.

Carlos Beruff, front, makes a point in his Aug. 23 testimony as attorney for Beruff, Ed Vogler, stands behind him. The pair addressed the Manatee County Board of Commissioners in support of Beruff’s proposed large-scale development adjacent to Sarasota Bay southeast of Cortez.

Hearing set in FISH v. DEP

a time and place are now set for a challenge seeking to reverse a conditional state permit for a wetland mitigation bank issued to aqua by the Bay developers. a hearing is set for 9:30 a.m. Sept. 12, continuing through Sept. 14, before an administrative law judge at the Southwest florida Water management district, 6750 fruitville road, Sarasota. environmentalists with Suncoast Waterkeeper inc., former manatee county commissioner Joe mcclash and the cortez-based florida institute for Saltwater Heritage submitted the appeal in January after the florida department of environmental protection in december 2016 issued its intent to permit. the permit would give the developers a bank of credits in perpetuity for wetlands on Sarasota Bay at the proposed mixed-use aqua development. the bank also must be approved by the u.S. army corps of engineers. the federal regulator has twice rejected the developers bank proposal since September 2016. the proposed 260-acre mitigation is part of the 529 acres proposed for a mixed-use development up for county approval — but the county has no purview over it.

Joe McClash and Kathe Fannon show the gallery and the county board a model depicting Aqua by the Bay at the Aug. 23 meeting. Islander Photos: Kathy Prucnell

Still the developer seeks an unknown number of acknowledging construction jobs might be cre35- to 75-foot buildings — and opponents, including ated, von Hahmann said, “i’ve got an industry that i von Hahmann, are crying foul. speak for and protect that already brings $8.3 million annually to manatee county” in reference to commerthe people speak cial fishers. of the 36 people who spoke during public comcapt. Kathe fannon, a tour guide who runs out of ment — closed at the end of aug. 23 hearing — six Cortez, and Tanner Pelkey, a Cortez fisherman, warned favored the developers’ plan, including mary docherty commissioners they need to protect the estuary, birds, of gulf coast Builders exchange, who predicted it marine life and habitat or face losing tourists, who would bolster the local economy with 8,600 jobs and come to manatee county for nature. $26 million in annual tax revenues. “if you want to protect that Kitchen,” fannon said, representatives of environmental groups, includ- “you have to go back to the boards.” ing the Sierra club, Suncoast Waterkeeper, tampa audubon Society, manaSota-88, Sarasota Bay foun- staff, commission discussion dation, several educators and others spoke against the tom pride, an environmental consultant with proposed wall, lagoon, density and height above the rummel Klepper & Kahl of Lakeland, said the lagoon 35-foot county restriction. would rise and fall with the tide and “all of that needs Many were concerned about storm surge, flooding to be modeled.” and evacuation. the modeling comes in the construction permit andy mele of the Sierra club explained a door-size stage, he added. model as it was shown to commissioners. depicting Stormwater engineering manager tom gersten83 buildings, he said it represented the 16 high-rises berger told commissioners the flushing study would planned by the developer and 67 additional buildings be done, reviewed by staff and by Southwest florida based on the proposed residential density. Water management district and the u.S. army corps the prototype didn’t even include the single-fam- of engineers. ily homes, commercial buildings, roads, parking and pride also opined that the estuary area would sidewalks, he said, adding the 75-foot models were “eventually transition to mangroves.” angled so they have water views, “and basically, we’re principal planner Stephanie moreland told the looking at a wall.” commission that only the Bocc could approve buildVon Hahmann, representing the cortez-based ings over 35 feet. florida institute for Saltwater Heritage of 237 memcommissioner robin diSabatino objected to the bers and a former county commissioner 2001-08, noted unknown number of buildings. prior county approvals for 200 single-family homes “this is a very precious area,” commissioner prisand 254 multi-family units were set back from the cilla trace said, adding she feared mangroves would be mangroves and shoreline. exposed to the deep-water lagoon and the impact of the Von Hahmann said the current 2,300-plus multi- 13-foot-high wall and declared she couldn’t approve family unit plan is “not necessary,” predicting a tunnel the plan. of buildings along el conquistador and “a wall of con“this project is so massive,” commissioner crete along the bay.” charles Smith said, adding he would favor a phasedShe also questioned the functionality of the lagoon, in project but wouldn’t approve the aqua gdp with its which abuts Legends Bay to the south and dead ends 30-year build-out and unknown number of buildings. near tidy island at the north end. “What we’re doing is voting on something now Von Hahmann and others, including tampa audu- and putting all the power in the staff’s hands to dictate bon Society members, Steve Bayard of cortez, and the future of the area,” Smith said about commissioner Jack Merriam of Sarasota Bay Foundation, testified Vanessa Baugh’s motion to approve the developer how the proposed narrow, deep waterbody would plan. degrade wildlife habitat and fragment the mangrove commissioner Stephen Jonsson, who represents system. cortez and anna maria island, seconded the motion. Jonsson said the area is “really transitioning” with county-approved developments, including Lake flores coming with 6,500 homes and 1 million square feet of commercial space. Baugh’s motion was abandoned after commissioner carol Whitmore announced she would not support a stipulation that allowed the developers to request 145-foot buildings in the future, to which Beruff responded, “i’m happy to clear it up and say no buildings over 95 feet period.” a 6-1 vote to continue the hearing was then led by Whitmore. after the meeting, Beruff’s team issued the following statement: “aqua by the Bay is committed to doing this right every step of the way and in the end, we look forward to being able to demonstrate the neighborhood’s real, positive impacts.” Larry Lieberman talks with Manatee County Comthe Sept. 29 continuation of the Bocc hearing missioner Carol Whitmore in the chambers during a is set for 9 a.m. in the commission chambers, 1112 break in the Aug. 23 hearing on Aqua by the Bay. manatee ave. W., Bradenton.

THE ISLANDER n Aug. 30, 2017 n 15

Anna Maria rolls out franchise prohibition, historic preservation ordinances

By Bianca Benedí islander reporter the ordinance created to place a moratorium on formula business entities enacted in anna maria last July has been codified. city commissioners adopted an ordinance aug. 24, voting 3-2 to approve a permanent ban on formula retail establishments in the city in order to preserve an “old florida” feel. commissioners doug copeland and Brian Seymour voted against the ban. the ordinance says the purpose of the moratorium is to preserve “a non-commercialized ‘old florida’ atmosphere where there are virtually no national ‘chain’ type establishments.” according to the language of the ordinance, formula retail is defined as a business with three or more locations with a similar color scheme, trademark and merchandise. the anna maria-based business poppo’s taqueria qualifies as a formula retail business, with three other locations in manatee county. So does the donut experiment, which has expanded from its anna maria spot to six locations across the united States. However, because the businesses originated in anna maria and unless the business owners seek more business licenses within the city, they would not be affected by the ordinance. anna maria commissioners enacted an emergency formula retail moratorium last year in response to Holmes Beach’s moratorium, which was enacted as a result of permit applications submitted by chain stores Smoothie King and dunkin’ donuts/Baskin robbins for storefronts on east Bay drive. anna maria’s original emergency moratorium was in place for 60 days. commissioners passed two sixmonth moratorium extensions in the past year. this ordinance makes the moratorium permanent. in addition to the formula retail moratorium, commissioners also held a final hearing on an ordinance

amending the comprehensive plan. the ordinance also sends the city’s comprehensive the ordinance provides for the historic preserva- plan amendments to the florida department of ecotion element, amends the coastal and conservation nomic Opportunity for final review and compliance. element and adds funding information to the city’s the additions won’t be approved until 31 days after adopted capital improvements program. the deo reviews and approves the amendments.

... as Holmes Beach grapples with franchise controls

By terry o’connor islander reporter there’s no putting the genie back in the bottle. franchise businesses are here to stay in Holmes Beach, according to planner Bill Brisson. What’s left to do is work to preserve island ambiance and character, according to Brisson, who is advising commissioners on how to better define the tipping point where commercial chains adversely affect the “beachy” island business character. “Treat downtown very specifically,” Brisson said. “that’s the real character of Holmes Beach. downtown is what you are trying to preserve.” the Holmes Beach city commission discussed at its aug. 22 meeting how formula businesses, or franchises, should be allowed, regulated or prohibited. and how to do it without barring a business offering desirable services — even if it is a chain. “i think we all agree you want to retain the character of the island. then i think of the dollar Store. it’s so much easier to go there,” said commissioner marvin grossman. “Sometimes there’s a reason why you want to change your ordinance.” Brisson said it’s not the role of the city to protect local businesses from competition. Brisson suggested capping the number of formula businesses where they are now, making his recommendation in a 15-page report plus a 44-page appendix of photos and descriptions of Holmes Beach franchise businesses. Brisson based much of his recommendations on a franchise ordinance enacted in Sanibel. “most businesses here are mom and pop or locally owned,” Brisson said. “the nature of Holmes Beach

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businesses sets you apart because they are not all the same.” Brisson discouraged a suggestion to regulate business facades and signage citing legal complications. “i suggest you not get into architectural controls,” he said. “the more restriction you put on, the more likely you are to be challenged,” said city attorney patricia petruff. the formula business discussion required no commission vote. a suggested ordinance will be prepared by Brisson and presented for a first reading in September. a temporary moratorium on new formula businesses expires oct. 10. “i think we need to consider an extension of the moratorium, at least until the end of the year, if not beyond,” mayor Bob Johnson said. “this thing is not going to come to fruition and be complete by oct. 10.” the moratorium has already been extended once. petruff was directed to draft a second moratorium extension to sunset in march 2018. in other action, commissioners unanimously adopted three ordinances. ordinance 17-11 limits housing in the mixed-use district to 10 dwelling units per acre. it also requires one parking space per three seats for restaurants, bars and nightclubs. ordinance 17-09 provides for public participation in the comprehensive plan process. ordinance 17-13 establishes a special magistrate to hear parking citation cases.

At Mosaic, we’re putting science to work right here in the community. From volunteering at science fairs to providing grants for robotics programs, we work closely with local schools to provide students with innovative learning opportunities in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM). We’re dedicated to preparing the next generation for rewarding careers in a 21st century economy. Students at Just For Girls learn valuable programing skills during MOSI’s Robot Roundup, supported by Mosaic.

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16 n Aug. 30, 2017 n THE ISLANDER

Eclipse casts shadow on Anna Maria Island

temperatures rose into the 90s as eyes raised to scan partially cloudy skies during the solar eclipse that shadowed Holmes Beach the afternoon of aug. 21. the great american eclipse cast a contiguous shadow across the continental united States, including anna maria island, from its beginning at 1:18 p.m. to its height of darkness little more than an hour later. “it’s incredible,” said david Swenson of denver as he stared through safety glasses at the moon passing in front of the sun while he and his party of five enjoyed the beach in Holmes Beach. the path of the total solar eclipse did not reach anna maria island. the partial eclipse, however, did slightly dim the sky. the totality was viewed from Salem, oregon, to charleston, South carolina, according to naSa. according to naSa, the last total contiguous solar eclipse for the united States was feb. 26, 1979, when the shadow passed through Washington, oregon, idaho, montana and north dakota. reasons varied for people being on the beach in Holmes Beach during the latest eclipse. “it’s always so bright and colorful on the beach, so it’s unusual,” said nadine Lippeck of Holmes Beach. “it’s the last time in our lifetime we’ll see something like this,” philip arnt of Sarasota said of his birthday celebration. His wife, Sandra arnt, owns nana’s treasure chest consignment shop in Sarasota. they come to Holmes Beach often, but this time was special, she said. “We just thought it was a great piece of history,” she said. Vanessa grosse of munich, germany, strolling the beach with Lippeck, said she’d seen a total eclipse “10 years ago in munich. “it was spooky.” naSa projects the next total solar eclipse april 8, 2024, to be visible from texas to maine. eclipse trackers on anna maria island will see only a partial eclipse then, too. the next total solar eclipse visible coast to coast will occur aug. 12, 2045, reaching from northern california to central florida, according to naSa. — Terry O’Connor

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A group of visitors to the Anna Maria City Pier Aug. 21 pass around a pair of safety glasses supplied by City Pier restaurant employee Brian Blaine, left. Islander Photo: Bianca Benedí

LEFT: Juliana Bankert, 4, and brother Colin, 6, try out their safety glasses in preparation for the Aug. 21 solar eclipse. Even the giant ice cream cone at the Small Town Creamery in the Island Shopping Center at 5404 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, gets into the spirit of the eclipse with giant safety shades and a “darkened cone.” The ice cream shop offered a “total eclipse float” in honor of the day. Islander Photo: Courtesy Lindy Gilbert

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Brian Blaine, Anna Maria City Pier employee, wears safety glasses Aug. 21 to observe the solar eclipse at the pier. Islander Photo: Bianca Benedí

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A birthday eclipse â&#x20AC;&#x201D; what could be better?

Sheema Gollamudi, right, looks sunward Aug. 21 with brother Vincent during the solar eclipse. The day marked Sheemaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 11th birthday, and the family celebrated with an eclipse-themed party at their Holmes Beach residence. Islander Photo: Courtesy â&#x20AC;&#x153;Mom,â&#x20AC;? Nenita Daguinotas

Sheema Gollamudi, a student at King Middle School in Bradenton, celebrates her 11th birthday Aug. 21 with an eclipse-themed party at her home in Holmes Beach. Enjoying the festivities with Sheema, center, are father Dave, left, brothers Vincent and Destin and mom Nenita Daguinotas. Islander Courtesy Photo

Anna Maria Island resident Nadine Lippeck, left, and Vanessa Grosse, visiting Holmes Beach for a sixth time from Munich, Germany, take a quick look at the Aug. 21 solar eclipse. Islander Photo: Terry Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Connor

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Cops & Court By Kathy Prucnell, Islander Reporter

Orlando man arrested for drugs, marijuana

An erratic driving pattern led Holmes Beach police to a drug arrest. Gaston Delgado, 26, of Orlando, was pulled over just before midnight Aug. 6 after a Holmes Beach police officer observed him swerve into the bicycle lane and stop at a crosswalk where there were no pedestrians. Approaching the motorist, Officer Alan Bores noticed the odor of raw marijuana and an open can of beer in Delgado the center console. In a search of the vehicle, police found 1.1 grams of marijuana and three pills. Delgado was arrested for possessing marijuana and Alprazolam, a controlled substance, without a prescription. Bores also ticketed him for failing to use a designated lane, driving with his license suspended and open container. Delgado was transported to the Manatee County jail and was released on a $2,500 bond. His arraignment is set for 9 a.m. Friday, Sept. 8, at the Manatee County Judicial Center, 1051 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton.

Streetlife

By Kathy Prucnell

Island police blotter

Anna Maria No reports. Anna Maria is policed by MCSO. Bradenton Beach Aug. 16-17, Bayview Terrace Condos, 117 Seventh St. N., grand theft. A man reported he found his 2015 Ford pickup truck’s tailgate valued at $5,000 taken off his truck. Aug. 18, Bridge Street Bazaar, 117 Bridge St., trespass. A woman was found sleeping. A Bradenton Beach officer witnessed the reporting party tell her she was no longer allowed on the property. Aug. 21, Drift-In, 120 Bridge St., domestic battery. A bartender and others witnesses saw a man punch a woman in the stomach and grab her by the neck. A second man tried to break up the fight and the aggressor slammed the man’s head into the pavement. The aggressor was found on Church Street. The woman was intoxicated and told police she didn’t remember what happened. No one wanted to press charges. Police

Odor leads to drug arrest

Bradenton Beach police followed their noses to make an early morning arrest in the 2500 block of Gulf Drive. Kaly Gieseking, 21, of Jacksonville, was arrested at 3:12 a.m. Aug. 18 for possessing more than 20 grams of marijuana and drug paraphernalia after police smelled marijuana coming from a vehicle stopped in the roadway Gieseking “with no other persons or cars in the area,” according to a BBPD report. Police next followed Gieseking’s vehicle as it turned on 28th Street North and onto Avenue C, where it parked in a driveway in the 2700 block. All occupants exited the vehicle and a search of the car turned up 27.2 grams of marijuana and a bong in the trunk. Gieseking told police the marijuana was hers. The vehicle was towed. She was transported to the Manatee County jail and was released on a $2,000 bond. Gieseking’s arraignment will be at 9 a.m. Friday, Sept. 22, at the Manatee County Judicial Center, 1051 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton. Island watch: To report information on island crime, call the MCSO Anna Maria substation, 941708-8899; Bradenton Beach police, 941-778-6311; or Holmes Beach police, 941-708-5804. arrested the aggressor for battery. Bradenton Beach is policed by BBPD. Cortez No reports. Cortez is policed by MCSO. Holmes Beach Aug. 17, 6800 block of Palm Drive, theft. The owner of a 1996 Honda motorcycle valued at $1,000 reported it stolen from the backyard. The man noticed his inoperable, unregistered motorcycle missing when he went to work on it. He had last seen it two days earlier. Aug. 19, Manatee Public Beach, 4000 Gulf Drive, alcohol violation. A Holmes Beach police officer, using night-vision glasses, found a man and a woman having sex on the beach after the beach had closed. The officer noticed several open beer bottles around their blanket. They were issued an alcohol citation and a parking ticket for after-hours parking. Aug. 19, 4200 block of Manatee Avenue, fraud. Randomly running tags, a Holmes Beach officer found

Police seek info on Holmes Beach battery

Holmes Beach police are investigating an incident at the beachfront home known as the “tiki house” at 102 48th St. Police were called to Blake Medical Center in Bradenton at 4:23 p.m. Aug. 20 to take a statement from a man who was being treated for injuries after an incident at the house. The victim told police he took a ride to the house at about 3 a.m. Aug. 20 from D.Coy Ducks Bar & Grille, 5410 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. After 30 minutes at the 48th Street house, the male victim recalled seeing a man at the outdoor tiki bar arguing with his girlfriend. The victim reported that as he was walking out, someone struck him on the back of his head. He told police that after he fell, several people began punching and kicking him, according to the report. The victim told police he curled into a ball on the ground to protect himself. After taking the victim’s statement, Officer Steve Ogline went to the property, found no one home and called the owner, Shawn Kaleta. Kaleta said there were renters at the house, but they vacated the house earlier that day. He gave permission for police to enter the property. Ogline reported finding a “significant amount of blood” on the counter of the outdoor tiki bar and the ground. According to an Aug. 23 supplemental report, the renter told police he had leased it for a family birthday celebration and everyone in his party was home and asleep by 11 p.m. Aug. 19. HBPD Detective Sgt. Brian Hall said the investigation is continuing, including interviewing people who may have been at the scene of the incident. Anyone with information should contact HBPD at 941-778-COPS (2677) or CrimeStoppers at 866-634TIPS. an expired tag on a vehicle. The officer ticketed the driver of the vehicle for an altered tag, no proof of insurance and unlawfully possessing and driving with a suspended driver’s license. Aug. 21, Manatee Public Beach, 4000 Gulf Drive, alcohol violation. A man was cited for having a bottle of whiskey with him on the beach. Aug. 23, Manatee Public Beach, 4000 Gulf Drive, disorderly intoxication. Officers responded to a report that a man was throwing construction cones onto Gulf Drive. The man told police he threw the cones but that it didn’t hurt anyone. Holmes Beach is policed by the HBPD. Streetlife is based on incident reports and narratives from the BBPD, HBPD and MCSO. Pastor Rosemary Wheeler Backer

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THE ISLANDER n Aug. 30, 2017 n 19

Obituaries

Sara Elizabeth Walton

Community activist, former Commissioner Billie Martini dies

former Holmes Beach commissioner and community activist Billie martini died aug. 20. martini, named the islander of the year in 2002, came to anna maria island in 1944 and resided in Bradenton Beach for 16 years. after college, she married and, with her husband, opened the first motor court on the island. She resided in Holmes Beach for many years and held various jobs, including clerk in charge of the city’s post office, bookkeeper of the Karel Water Company, as well as billing clerk and teacher’s aide at anna maria elementary. She also was a member of Save anna maria inc. and helped lead Sam’s crusade against a “megabridge” replacement on anna maria island. and she served on the Holmes Beach city commission, winning election to a two-year term in 1993. She promised to be a voice for the people: “i

believe the present commission has done an admirable job but, as happens so often, when the citizens do not take active participation, the commission will vote their own way.” In her strong voice, she stood firmly in favor of consolidation of the municipal government services on the island and encouraged cooperation between the cities. She also led island recreation and conservation campaigns, including a call for a public community swimming pool, which didn’t materialize, and the establishment of the nature preserve that became grassy point. this effort led to the preservation of 37 acres of mangroves. martini once told the islander, “it had been in my mind for several years” that development should be prevented in the area, which is the last large undeveloped waterfront parcel in the city.

Sara elizabeth Walton, 38, of Holmes Beach, died aug. 10. She was born in elk Horn, Wisconsin, July 25, 1979, and moved to rising Son, indiana, where she became a gifted athlete. She played center in basketball for her undefeated high school time. She also played volleyball. Walton She graduated from the university of Southern indiana, and her caring heart led her to a degree in social services. She loved meeting people and, with her infectious laugh and vibrant smile, was quick to make friends. She was a passionate animal lover. She moved to Holmes Beach four years ago and took a special interest in sea turtles. She is survived by parents roger Walton and Sharon robinson; brother darin; sister Janella pryce; grandmothers Bula Walton and eloise Holland; boyfriend Jesse candish; and her beloved dog, mr. Biscuit.

David Forrest Cannon

Singing in September

The Joyful Noise Children’s Choir will begin a new season of rehearsals Tuesday, Sept. 5, at Roser Memorial Community Church. The choir, for children in kindergarten through fifthgrade, rehearses Tuesdays at 3:15 p.m. Kids are taught vocal technique, sight-reading concepts and performance skills under the supervision of Roser music director Kristen Stanton. Transportation is available and more information, with a call to the church office at 941-7780414. Islander Courtesy Photo

david “Bash” forrest cannon died aug. 13. He was born may 3, 1949, to Bruce and millie in patterson, new Jersey. The youngest of five, he grew up in Smithville, georgia, with his parents and four sisters. He was drafted into the u.S. army to serve in the Vietnam War. He raised three children in Bradenton, teaching them the importance of hard work, family involvement, a sense of humor and defensive driving. He shared his love of fishing, camping, cooking, competition, singing and playing country music on his guitar with many. He will be remembered as a teacher of the important things in life.

Top state Dem visits beachfront bistro

Wednesday Night Blast resumes at CrossPointe

Sen. Bill Nelson, D-Miami, follows the campaign trail to the Beach Bistro Aug. 21, where he mingled and dined with supporters, including Bob Blalock and Bob Barnett, at a fundraiser for his 2018 U.S. Senate re-election bid. Hosts Sean Murphy and wife Susan Timmins, Bistro owners, made introductions and Nelson spoke on the stakes for the next election and his continued support for Obamacare and opposition to offshore drilling interests in the Gulf of Mexico. Islander Photo: Bonner Joy

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crosspointe fellowship will resume its Wednesday night Blast programs Sept. 6. the schedule includes: • 5:30 p.m., children’s choir practice for kids first- through fifth-grades. • 6 p.m., family dinner, with a requested donation to cover costs. • 6:45 p.m., Kids Clubs for children in kindergarten through fifth-grade and Rooted Student ministries for children in sixth- through 12thgrade. crosspointe is at 8605 gulf drive, Holmes Beach. For more information, call the church office at 941-778-0719.

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20 n Aug. 30, 2017 n THE ISLANDER

Anna Maria Island’s sea turtle season peaks, hatches abound

By ChrisAnn Silver Esformes Islander Reporter Sea turtle season has peaked on Anna Maria Island. As of Aug. 27, Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring reported 272 hatched nests on the island. Nesting has slowed to a trickle. However, close to 180 marked nests are yet to hatch and an unknown number of unmarked nests may hold “surprise hatches,” according to Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch executive director Suzi Fox. Sea turtle season runs May through October, with occasional late nests hatching after season ends. Nests must incubate 45-70 days. During season, AMITW volunteers walk the beach each morning at sunrise looking for nests laid at night. When found, the nests are staked and marked for monitoring and protection. Sometimes rain or other factors can lead to a missed nest, which is not discovered until after it hatches. “People think that just because the nests on the beach by their homes have hatched, it’s OK to leave lights on at night again,” Fox said Aug. 23. “The thing is, there could still be surprise nests out there, waiting to hatch.” During nesting season, exterior lights visible from the shoreline must be low and shielded with fixtures containing Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission-approved bulbs. Interior lights visible from the shoreline should be turned off or blocked by blinds or curtains after dark. After hatching, the turtles are drawn by their

AMITW sea turtle stats as of Aug. 27: 486 nests, 448 false crawls, 272 hatched nests and approximately 19,767 hatchlings to the sea.

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Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring section 6 coordinator Annie Camp, left, explains a nest excavation to Joe DeKemper of Dubois, Indiana, while volunteer Maria Yatros excavates a hatched loggerhead sea turtle nest Aug. 24 on the beach near 28th Street in Holmes Beach. The nest contained 95 hatched and three unhatched eggs. AMITW excavates and collects data 72 hours after a nest hatches. Islander Photo: ChrisAnn Silver Esformes instincts to the Gulf of Mexico by the reflection of light on the water’s surface. Disorientations occur when lights visible from the shoreline attract turtles away from the water, making them vulnerable to predators, exhaustion or dehydration. A hatched nest is indicated by an indentation in the ground surrounded by tiny tracks, usually leading to the water. However, if the tracks indicate the hatchlings went the wrong way, AMITW classifies this as a disorientation and investigates what might have caused it. Fox works with code enforcement in Anna Maria, Bradenton Beach and Holmes Beach to ensure lights are compliant and to notice people when their lights are out of compliance, so the problem can be corrected. “Code officers in all three cities have their work cut out for them this year, but have jumped on board to help,” Fox said. She recently noted that lights at beachfront properties have led to some disorientations, but code enforcement has been quick to remedy the issues within 24

hours. Additionally, AMITW has been handing out “turtle eye” cards that contain a filter, allowing a person to view light sources visible to sea turtles. Fox said the cards are available to people at no cost at the three island city halls and she plans to order 2,000 more viewers to distribute next year. “These cards are great because they let people see what the turtle sees,” Fox said. “That way they know if a light needs to be changed to one that’s compliant.” Fox said in addition to keeping lights compliant, people need to fill any holes dug on the beach by dusk. While craters on the beach can be a problem for nesting turtles, they pose a bigger threat to hatchlings, which are small enough to become trapped. Fox said she has been working with resorts and vacation property managers to ensure they educate guests about turtle-friendly lighting and beach practices. Mark Davis, owner of the Harrington House Bed Please see turtles, Next page

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THE ISLANDER n Aug. 30, 2017 n 21

Turtle watch warns: ‘TVs could harm hatchlings’

as of aug. 27, anna maria island turtle Watch and Shorebird monitoring reported 54 disorientations, which can occur when lights visible from the shoreline attract turtles away from the water, making them vulnerable to predators, exhaustion or dehydration. during an aug. 24 lighting inspection, amitW executive director Suzi fox and Bradenton Beach code enforcement officer Gail garneau observed light shining onto the beach, where large television screens were thought to be the cause. if you live on the beach and your tV is on after dark, “please, close your blinds,” fox said. the tV glow is visible to the turtles and it could be “deadly for hatchlings.” turtlEs continued from page 20 & Breakfast inn in Holmes Beach, said aug. 23 that he does his best to keep guests informed. “We like to make it interesting for our guests,” davis said. “We provide turtle watch handouts for them and keep up on the information ourselves, so we can talk with them about what’s happening with the turtles.” fox said it’s a “team effort,” and so far she is pleased with peoples’ efforts to keep the beach turtlefriendly this season. “everybody is right on board,” she said. “We are seeing some really good stuff happening for turtles on our beaches.” information about turtle-friendly lighting can be found on the fWc website at myfwc.com/wildlifehabitats/managed/sea-turtles/lighting/. to report a disoriented hatchling, or a sick, injured or dead sea turtle, contact fox at suzilfox@gmail.com or 941-778-5638.

Anna Maria Island Beach Cafe manager Tanner Enoch took a photo of the cabana operator as he observed a waterspout around 5:20 p.m. Aug. 24 from the Manatee Public Beach in Holmes Beach.

HB committee appointed to study city manager

Holmes Beach mayor Bob Johnson asked a month ago to initiate a committee to study the feasibility of a city manager form of government, saying the election of a mayoral administrator is dysfunctional. Johnson’s nine appointments were approved at the aug. 24 work session of the Holmes Beach city commission to the ad hoc committee to consider a city manager. the committee will include Scott Boyd, Jay calhoun, david cheshire, nancy deal, renee ferguson, constance Kihm, pamela Leckie, ellen prince and terry Schaefer. “it’s supposed to be a very unbiased committee,” chair Judy titsworth said. “it’s supposed to give us all the options and the pros and cons.” — Terry O’Connor

Holes and hatchlings don’t mix

A hole in the sand left unfilled Aug. 22 became a trap for two hatchlings on the beach in Holmes Beach. Upon discovery, the hatchlings were rescued and released to the Gulf of Mexico. Holes on the BB code enforcement and turtle beach can be deadly for hatchlings making their way watch test new tools to the water and should be filled in at the end of the Bradenton Beach code enforcement officer Gail Gar- day, according to Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch neau, left, tests a spectrometer Aug. 25, as AMITW executive director Suzi Fox. Islander Photo: Courexecutive director Suzi Fox looks through a “turtle tesy AMITW eye” card. Both tools are used by turtle watch and code enforcement on Anna Maria Island to ensure beachfront lighting is compliant with sea turtle regulations. Islander Photo: ChrisAnn Silver Esformes

A waterspout forms just offshore of Bradenton Beach Aug. 24 and appears headed for the Cortez Bridge in this shot captured by Liza Kubik, director of marketing and events for the Seafood Shack Marina, Bar & Grill in Cortez. Three waterspouts formed just offshore of Bradenton Beach around 5:20 p.m. as a heavy, but brief thunderstorm moved westward in the Bruce Pullam caught this image of a waterspout around 5 p.m. Aug. 24 from the parking lot at Tommy Gulf of Mexico, away from the coastline. Islander Photo: Courtesy Liza Kubik Knocker’s bar in Bradenton Beach. Bill Eller, owner of Beach Service, an AC and refrigeration repair company, captured this Aug. 24 view of two waterspouts in the Gulf of Mexico while driving on Bayshore Gardens Parkway in Bradenton. Shortly after he snapped the photo, Eller said a storm moved between him and the beach and the waterspouts were blocked from his view.

22 n Aug. 30, 2017 n THE ISLANDER

AME’s upper class tackle everyday issues, mundane chores

When you reach fifth-grade, you are finally at the top of the elementary school mountain. But there’s more to it than kicking back and enjoying that upperclass status. Being the senior class members at anna maria elementary also comes with choices — jobs and activities. fifth-grade students at ame may select from a variety of leadership teams. the u.S.a. flag team is responsible for the daily raising and lowering of the American flag in the Peace circle at the front of the school. Students in this activity learn the proper way to fold and store a flag when not in use. another flag team, the peace pole flag team, raises and lowers a collection of flags from around the world in the Peace Circle surrounding the U.S. flag on campus. The fifth-grade patrol teams assist other students with entering and exiting the building. they hold the main lobby doors open, guide foot traffic, and help younger students learn proper procedures. patrol members wear bright orange vests while assisting other students. Office runners and helpers do a variety of chores around the school. they bring absent notices to the front desk, unpack supplies for teachers and administrators, act as message runners and distribute materials to classrooms. media helpers assist in the library and serve as the producers and anchors for the daily morning news

cast. the K-Kids, a club sponsored by the Kiwanis club of anna maria island, is a service club for elementary students that teaches the value of helping others in the community. the ame green team is in charge of recycling collection at the school. members don bright green vests weekly and collect recyclables from each classroom. fifth-graders may select to participate in one or more of the school groups or none at all — it’s all voluntary. meanwhile, ame parents may select from two organizations to become involved with in their children’s school. the ame parent-teacher organization hosts a variety of events throughout the year including the annual fall fest, dinners before each class play, appreciation breakfasts and the Spring fling gala. new members and volunteers are always welcome. Visit www.amepto.org for more information or to join. the ame School advisory council meets four times a year in the media center and has two openings for the 2017-18 year. the council is responsible for the Cassie Calvert, left, and Oliva Alvarez stack noteschool improvement plan and budget. contact Jackie books for distribution while serving as office helpers featherston, school principal, at featherj@manateeAug. 17 at Anna Maria Elementary. The fifth-graders schools.net for information on volunteering. and their classmates participate in a variety of jobs, By Sandy Ambrogi, sandy@islander.org clubs and groups at the school. Islander Photos: Sandy Ambrogi Colton Higgins, blue shirt, voluntters for AME patrol as a door holder Aug. 21 as class dismisses for the day. Colton also is a member of the K-Kids at Anna Maria Elementary.

AME calendar

• Monday, Sept. 4, no school, Labor Day. • 1:15 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 6, early release. • 5:30-7 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 9, AME-Parentteacher organization welcome reception at the Waterfront restaurant, 111 S. Bay Blvd., anna maria. • Tuesday, Sept. 12, school picture day. • 8:45 a.m. Friday, Sept. 22, Peace Day. anna maria elementary is at 4700 gulf drive, Holmes Beach. for more information, call 941708-5525.

Student achievements

the islander loves kudos — so send us your student’s good news for the paper. Share student’s scholastic honors, special achievements You may include photos. Be sure to identify people in the picture with first and last names and the date the photo was taken, along with pertinent information. Submit your news to news@islander.org.

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THE ISLANDER n Aug. 30, 2017 n 23

Parents, caregivers help students experience eclipse

not all education comes in the form of books or in classrooms. many of life’s greatest lessons are through experience and aug. 21 afforded anna maria elementary students a hands-on lesson in astronomy and physics — even eyecare — when the moon slid perfectly between the earth and the sun and a full solar eclipse traversed the north american continent. though only about 82 percent coverage was observed locally, it was enough to generate weeks of excitement and science studies for all grade levels. the School district of manatee county suspended outdoor activities at schools during the solar eclipse, eliminating firsthand viewing at schools. teachers and staff impressed upon students the importance of not looking directly at the sun. ame streamed the eclipse progress in the school auditorium as had been recommended by the district.

AME Kindergartner Asli Hoggard of Bridget Querrard’s class shows off her eclipse hat Aug. 21. Islander Photo: Sandy Ambrogi

“making a decision on how best to handle the solar eclipse was extremely difficult, as we recognize both its historic and education aspect,” Superintendent diana greene said in a prepared statement. “However, our first and foremost priority is the safety of our students,” she said. But many students either missed school aug. 21 or were picked up early by parents and caregivers.

principal Jackie featherston said by 2 p.m. eclipse day, 55 percent of all students at ame were absent or had been picked up. many parents made the short trip to deSoto national memorial in northwest Bradenton, where a viewing event occurred. Some simply retreated to area beaches, parking lots and home driveways armed with solar glasses and a lot of oohs and aahs. A group of friends from AME form an earthly star as they watch the solar eclipse Aug. 21 at the DeSoto National Memorial in Bradenton. Clockwise from top, Kate Stembridge, Chloe Stembridge, Zoe Bourgoing, Garrett Nock, Catherine Teich-Dilorenzo, Alexander Teich-Dilorenzo and Lauren-Taylor Nock. Islander Photo: Courtesy Jessica Nock

Even if there is a oncein-a-lifetime (or twice) solar eclipse, lunch is still a necessity at Anna Maria Elementary. Kindergartners line up Aug. 21 in the hallway before heading to the cafeteria in their handmade “eclipse hats.” Islander Photo: Kelly Crawford

Preston Brighenti checks out the Aug. 21 solar eclipse at the DeSoto National Memorial in Bradenton in his safety glasses and a handmade hat from AME. Islander Photo: Karen Riley-

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24 n Aug. 30, 2017 n THE ISLANDER

Area tourism numbers ﬂat, but AMI sees double-digit increases By ed Scott islander reporter it’s “a good story to tell.” the tourism market may be flat in manatee county, elliott falcione said, but area hoteliers are “smart enough” to get their desired rate. that’s the picture falcione, Bradenton area convention and Visitors Bureau executive director, painted for the broad look at area tourism at the aug. 21 meeting of the manatee county tourist development council. Walter Klages, of research data Services, made the presentation that prompted falcione’s remark — and agreed. Looking at the numbers for the current fiscal year,

from october 2016-June 2017 — Klages said occupancy of county lodging venues had dropped slightly, 0.4 percent, from 75.4 percent to 75.1 percent, due to a recent increase in lodging inventory. That’s the “flat” part. But resort tax collection increased in June by double-digit percentages, year over year, in all three cities on anna maria island. Holmes Beach venues collected $346,339, or 27.6 percent of the tax. anna maria collected $234,476, or 18.7 percent. Bradenton Beach collected $117,451, or 9.4 percent. future success at some of the new venues could result in older venues renovating. meanwhile the average daily room rate was up 3.3 percent — year over year — from $171.20 to $176.80, as venues were able to increase nightly or weekly rates. revenue per available room — another key guideline called revpar — was up 2.8 percent, from $131.80 to $135.50. Visitation was up 3.4 percent, while the economic impact of tourists — which results in wage and employment increases — was up 5.4 percent for a total impact of $762 million october-June. “I find that to be very, very fascinating,” Klages said. Visitor origins — where tourists come from — remained similar to previous time periods, with the number of floridians visiting manatee county up

5.3 percent, from 124,700 to 131,320, those from the northeast up 3.6 percent, 117,210 to 121,390, midwesterners up 5.5 percent, 119,730 to 126,320, european visitors up 3.5 percent, 70,340 to 72,810, and opportunity markets — tourists from cities west of the mississippi river, such as dallas — up 3.9 percent, 22,700 to 23,580. Klages said european tourists do not arrive “on the shores of manatee” — whether by air to area airports or by cars from other destinations — by accident. “this is something that we have, for better than 15 years, intensively been promoting,” he said. despite a poor european economy, he said, manatee has drawn the “upper-income cream market which is so important because we are just not a basement market type of destination.” Later Klages added that “the type of people that we are attracting are more upscale and more well-to-do” than other tourism markets. Visitation was down 0.6 percent by folks from the Southeast, 49,160 to 48,860. the downturn, Klages said, was likely due to economic conditions in the atlanta area. Klages called atlanta “the core of the contraction.” Visitation by canadians continues to wane, down 11.2 percent through June, 23,560 to 20,920. Klages cited economic problems in the toronto, ontario, area.

Anna Maria denies owner removal of grand trees

anna maria commissioners voted 3-2 to deny the removal of two grand trees on vacant land owned by John Lynch at 62 n. Shore drive. commissioners Brian Seymour and dale Woodland voted against denying the tree removal. James moss of moss Builders applied to the city’s building department for a permit to remove two live oak trees that stand in the planned footprint of the proposed house. a third tree also is located in the footprint of a driveway, but it was not known at the time of the meeting if it qualified as a grand tree. commissioners requested that the builder and

Picture-perfect sky

A photographer aims toward a picture-perfect pink sunset from the beach near 66th Street in Holmes Beach. The summer sky continues to produce photographic opportunities for those patient enough to wait for the moment on the beach. Islander Photo: Sandy Ambrogi

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designer come up with a new plan that preserves at least one of the trees. commissioner carol carter pointed out the property was involved in a Bert Harris claim earlier this year, which was settled with a five-bedroom, 12-person occupancy. the city initially made a $550,000 purchase offer october 2016 on the property after carter suggested the three mature trees might make the property ideal for a pocket park. the city issued the purchase offer again november 2016 in counter-negotiations. — Bianca Benedí

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THE ISLANDER n Aug. 30, 2017 n 25

Passage Key attracts boaters, nudists, refuge violators By Kathy prucnell islander reporter Shifting are the sands of time. passage Key — a landmark for early Spanish and British explorers and long known as a destination for nudists — is a national wildlife refuge turning 112 years old in october. president theodore roosevelt established the preserve between anna maria island and egmont Key in tampa Bay in 1905 at the urging of the national audubon Society to end the slaughter of birds for women’s hat feathers. passage Key consisted of 60 acres of lush vegetation, mangroves and a fresh-water lake at the dawn of the 20th century. “those days are long gone,” Stan garner said aug. 22. Garner is an officer with the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, which patrols the area along with the florida fish and Wildlife conservation commission and manatee county law enforcement units. in 2014, the fWS announced 4 acres had surfaced after about 10 years underwater following hurricanes passing in through the gulf of mexico in 2004 and 2005. Since resurfacing, shorebirds flock to Passage Key as a loafing, feeding and resting habitat, but it’s not yet on the state list for critical wildlife areas. nonetheless, passage Key is a nationally protected area for shorebirds, which means no walking is permitted on the sand, garner said. “it’s a meandering sandbar,” he said. “it will be 6 acres today and 4 tomorrow.” fWS shorebird survey volunteer ashley Scarpa

The north shore of Anna maria Island is visible from Passage Key, where beachwalkers intrude on the bird sanctuary.

Beachgoers intrude on the beach Aug. 5 just feet away from the birds taking refuge in a large tidal pool at Passage Key and a posted sign that the island is a national wildlife refuge and bird sanctuary — closed to people and dogs. Islander Photos: Kathy Prucnell believes the island is slowly widening. and with more land, sanderlings, pelicans, cormorants, dowitchers are common sights. other species of interest include the threatened snowy plover, masked booby and roseate spoonbill, according to Scarpa. Scarpa points out this year she’s seen a “ton of laughing gulls” producing offspring, one black skimmer having one chick — and that’s interesting because skimmers are colonial nesters — and an american oystercatcher nested, though its offspring didn’t survive. Scarpa also reports one sea turtle nest this year. monthly bird counts are trending up, she said, estimating some 700 terns in July-august, including forster’s terns, royal terns and sandwich terns. Signs warn passage Key is closed and that includes dogs, too, garner said. people who venture closer than the mean-high water line face trespassing violations. “They’ll get on the island if a police officer is not out there to stop them,” garner said. But what’s worse, he added, is when people bring dogs. “to the birds, a dog is a predator. and if there’s a bird on a nest, it freaks them out,” garner said. more than 100 boats surrounded the island one Saturday in august. although most people observed were following the stand-off rule aug. 5, others ignored it, throwing frisbees to dogs, walking and sitting on the shore — despite the closed beach signs. garner estimates he’s seen 300 or more boaters drop anchor in the submerged lands around passage Key on weather-friendly holidays. and it’s a constant struggle to keep signs up. the weather can be harsh at the mouth of tampa Bay, where a deep channel passes the key. “if we can just grow the island a little higher,” garner said, “the 5- to 6-foot seas won’t bother them.” Snorkeling next to their boat on the sunny Sat-

WWII munitions studied at Passage Key

a report and study on the four munitions found and detonated at passage Key in 2015 will be released in fiscal year 2018. the u.S. corps of engineers is now compiling data as part of a nationwide initiative to recover artillery and learn about former defense sites. during World War ii, the island was home to the passage Key air-to ground gunnery range, where, according to a 2008 corps report, pilots from the macdill airforce Base in tampa practiced aerial bombing. erica Skolte, a public affairs specialist in the regional Jacksonville office, reports that the Corps in november-december 2015 found a fuzed 37 mm projectile, 4.5-inch aerial rocket and two bomb burster fuzes with 100-pound photoflash bombs, as well as munition debris. the corps determined the aerial rocket and two bomb bursters were explosive and couldn’t rule it out for the other munitions and all were destroyed dec. 15, 2015, in an underwater detonation, according to Skolte. the federal agency published a notice of ordnance detonation and posted lighted vessels in the

area, prohibiting the public within a 2,000-foot radius of the island a mile north of anna maria until dec. 18, 2015. passage Key is a national wildlife refuge and bird sanctuary protected by the u.S. fish & Wildlife Service. during the fudS fieldwork, Skolte said the corps worked closely with the u.S. fish & Wildlife Service to minimize interference with the bird habitat. FWS Officer Stan Garner was on duty during the project. “the fudS project was completed in early 2016, and, yes, we coordinated and worked closing with both the army corps and contractors throughout the project,” he said. Skolte also warns the public if munitions are found to follow the “3 rs” of munition safety: “recognize the item could be dangerous. retreat from the area immediately. report what you found by calling 911.” after the corps’ passage Key report is complete, it will be available to the public at the island Library in Holmes Beach, she said.

urday were greg and rebecca Kutz of St. petersburg, michael Berrettia of ocala and paul o’Brian of orlando. the group said they were frequent visitors. they’ve seen fish, dolphins, sand dollars, Greg Kutz said. “The manatees even come up to the boats,” he added. and both clothed and nude boaters face the same trespassing laws, according to garner. “everyone wants to know about the nudists,” he said, adding he’s heard they’ve been going to passage Key since the 1940s. “clothed or nude, it doesn’t make any difference to our officers,” he added. Scarpa encourages people to stay off the island — not only because it’s illegal and violators face elevated fines for trespassing on the national sanctuary — but because the birds need their space. and as it is with the passage of time, shorebirds continue to feed, rest and sometimes nest at passage Key.

Delayed Waterline resort still short occupancy permit

By terry o’connor islander reporter closer, but no cigar yet for the developer trying to secure a certificate of occupancy for the $29 million Waterline marina resort and Beach club. “they are making steady progress but they are not there yet,” said building official James McGuinness. Shortfalls include installation of public safety requirements such as railings. “the site has to be safe for people,” mcguinness said at the aug. 22 meeting of the Holmes Beach city commission. the resort at 5325 marina drive will include a waterfront hotel with 37 two-bedroom units and kitchens, 2,000 square feet of meeting space, a restaurant, swimming pool and a 50-slip marina. Waterline officials received tentative approval at the meeting for an agreement with the city to limit access control between bedrooms in the 37 approved units. mayor Bob Johnson was authorized to accept the agreement upon review by city attorney patricia petruff. commission chair Judy titsworth said she was relieved by the room access arrangement. She said she became alarmed when Waterline advertising indicated the room count could increase to 74 through use of interlocking doors between the units and there was not enough parking to service so many rooms. mainsail development partner Brian check sought to assure city officials the project is on track for a September opening. “We’re shooting for our certificate of occupancy in mid-September,” check said. “Hopefully sooner than that.” A full certificate of occupancy will be obtained before any guests stay, check said. check noted the life safety system for the property has been approved by the West manatee fire rescue district. after twice previously taking reservations and having to reschedule them at other facilities, Waterline marina resort and Beach club is now taking reservations for october. room rates will start at less than $300 per night and range up to roughly $700.

26 n Aug. 30, 2017 n THE ISLANDER

Bradenton Beach approves VRO, neighborhood concerns remain

By Islander Reporter ChrisAnn Silver Esformes Regulations for vacation rentals in Bradenton Beach are in place, but concerns remain as to whether the new short-term rental license will help bring back neighborhoods. At an Aug. 21 meeting, city commissioners and the mayor approved the second reading and adopted the amended quality-of-life ordinance, as well as the associated fee schedule for the transient public lodging establishment license now required for short-term

rentals. The ordinance defines short-term rentals as any “unit, group of units, dwelling, building or group of buildings within a single complex of buildings which is rented to guests more than three times in a calendar year for periods of 30 days or one calendar month, whichever is less.” The ordinance passed unanimously. The QOL ordinance — enacted in 2015 — was immediately suspended while commissioners and the planning and zoning board discussed recommenda-

County sues owner, Bradenton Beach over utility access

By Kathy Prucnell Islander Reporter A sewer line is at the root of a newly surfaced dispute. Manatee County filed suit Aug. 18 against the city of Bradenton Beach, property owner Shawn Kaleta and two of his companies over a sewer line serving the south end of the city. The line is more than 40 years old, 10 feet deep, composed of vitrified clay piping and runs between 11th Street South and north of Longboat Pass. The county operates the sewer line on Bay Shore Drive, adjacent to three properties, 112, 114 and 116 S. 11th St. in Bradenton Beach — all properties owned by Kaleta, his attorney or affiliated companies, according to the complaint. In the seven-count complaint, the county alleges three alternative counts, seeking court orders: • To determine whether a 2001 city resolution aimed at vacating a right of way was valid. • To declare an implied easement based on a 2001 agreement that carves out an exception to a vacated right of way on the properties. • To compel property owners to convey the easements to the city. Other counts seek to prohibit the city from issuing permits and the property owner from building in the

right of way. City officials meeting in July claimed the property was correctly vacated and Bradenton Beach is not responsible for the utility easement. Two counts for declaratory judgment and one for a mandatory injunction ask the court to place the city in ownership of an easement for the benefit of the county utility. One count seeks injunctive relief to prohibit the city from issuing permits for construction of pools and pool decks in the right of way. Three counts seek to enjoin the owner from constructing a pool and deck. Kaleta attorney Louis Najmy, also corporate manager for the property, requested a pool permit for 112 11th St. S. and, in a letter dated May 17, threatened legal action if the city failed to issue it. Permits are pending for the other two addresses. The city in July refused to grant the pool permit on advise from the county regarding the sewer line. Mayor Bill Shearon said Aug. 24 he hadn’t been served with the complaint. “It’s just another issue and concern along with the others,” Shearon said, referring to the recent loss of citizens from the planning and Scenic Waves boards. Najmy said Aug. 22 he plans to file an answer and a counterclaim.

tions for enacting the regulations. The ordinance, similar to vacation rental ordinances in Anna Maria and Holmes Beach, was amended to allow for enforcement of trash, noise and parking regulations at vacation homes, without drawing Bert Harris Jr. claims — demands for compensation due to government regulations that diminish the value of private property. The previous QOL ordinance restricted the number of people who can stay overnight in a short-term rental — two guests per bedroom plus two people — but it did not include a mechanism for enforcement. The amended ordinance bases occupancy on a state-regulated calculation relating to air conditioning load which, according to building official Steve Gilbert, “usually” amounts to an occupancy limit of 2-plus-2. Police officers and code enforcement can determine if occupancy limits are being upheld if an officer is responding to a trash, noise or parking complaint. However, some people are concerned these regulations will not control large “party houses” being built in residential areas of the city. Priscilla Von Ahnen, formerly a resident of Bradenton Beach, recently moved to Longboat Key with husband Frank Harrison, a former member of the planning and zoning board, cited frustration in an Aug. 23 email to The Islander, regarding diminishing neighborhoods in lieu of short-term rentals. “Nothing will help until the commission understands that they are dealing with residential areas, designed for people who have chosen to live here,” Von Ahnen wrote in the email. “The residents are being treated as nuisances in the way of ‘progress’ and big business, while they are just trying to preserve the way of life that they intended when they moved here.” In April 2016, Von Ahnen submitted a petition to city hall with signatures from 79 residents, proposing a six-month building moratorium for the Aug. 30 primary. Please see VRO, Next page

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THE ISLANDER n Aug. 30, 2017 n 27

President Theodore Roosevelt is responsible for the first protections on Passage Key. At the urging of the National Audubon Society, Roosevelt declared Passage Key a federal bird reservation in 1905. Conservationists were alarmed by the slaughter of birds, which were being hunted for plume feathers to adorn hats. Islander Photo: Wikipedia

By Lisa Neff

Passage Key au natural

“at the end of the island is ‘naked island,’” i overheard them say. i was chilling on the trolley, seated across the aisle from four vacationers checking their smartphones. Well, i just had to interrupt and ask where they were headed next. turns out, they were reading the tripadvisor reviews for passage Key, the national wildlife refuge just a boat ride from the north end of anna maria island. on tripadvisor, visiting “pasNeff sage Key aka naked island” is listed as no. 72 out of 130 things to do in the area. the introduction states, “it still is the popular place for boaters that opt for a clothing optional … area for socializing. although you now must keep off the sand island and be in at least ankle deep water at all times. most folks anchor their boats and socialize in knee- to waste-deep water anyway.… on any given weekend, you can find 100-plus boats! It’s a ton of fun for the open-minded and those that don’t get offended by social nudity.” one of my favorite early newspaper assignments was covering a nudist colony in nottingham, new Hampshire, founded with the “live free or die” spirit of the state. Later, at a different place in my reporting career, i found myself covering an annual leather-fetish festival in chicago, bringing social nudity to State Street and sexual nudity to the lobby of the congress Hotel. Vro continued from page 20 Voters approved the moratorium with a 75 percent margin, halting the construction of large vacation homes in residential neighborhoods while the city prepared rental regulations and licensing. the current commission has twice extended the moratorium, which now will expire in november. meanwhile, the commission is planning a series of workshops through november to review recommendations from the p&Z board for amendments to the land development code that could limit the size and configuration of new homes. the first workshop was held aug. 8, with no changes made to the Ldc. Von ahnen is not convinced the current commission’s effort is sufficient to stop longtime residents

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So i’m not offended by social nudity or even sexual nudity. But there’s a “but” when it comes to passage Key, protected by a federal order issued in 1905 by president theodore roosevelt. Passage Key is among the first federal refuges in the country and it once hosted the largest royal tern and sandwich tern nesting colonies in the state. the island was designated a wilderness area in 1970 and closed to people — and their pets — in 1991 because of its importance to nesting and roosting sea birds and other species. this is an island for laughing gulls, royal terns, black skimmers, sandwich terns, brown pelicans and oystercatchers to hang out au natural — not Homo sapiens from St. pete or Lakeland. the u.S. fish and Wildlife Service notes on the webpage for passage Key that it is closed “to all public use” and “public entry is prohibited.” also, signs on passage Key, visible from a boat, say as much. Yet on a recent Saturday afternoon, during a boat ride chartered by the islander, our company could see this 5-acre from leaving Bradenton Beach. “they are the people of the town, everyone else is just the guest. the people have a right to their neighborhoods,” she said. Without occupancy limits for rentals, the city is doing little to help overcrowded and noisy neighborhoods, “especially if limits on size or number of bedrooms are not addressed,” Von ahnen wrote. However, occupancy limits prompted numerous Bert Harris claims in anna maria and Holmes Beach — not the number or size of bedrooms.

barrier island was host to plenty of folks. most people appeared to be abiding the rules and were sunbathing on the boats that ringed the island or snorkeling or bobbing in the water. and most were in swimsuits, not birthday suits. However, there were people walking on passage Key. a few lounged in beach chairs in the sand. one person was walking a dog. a couple played frisbee. another person was working a smartphone. i can’t say “bully” for them. passage Key isn’t what it was when roosevelt issued his protective order. in 1905, it was a lush, 60-acre mangrove island with a fresh water lake. a 1921 hurricane pounded at passage Key and it has yet to recover, but it is protected bird habitat. there are plenty of other places where people can leave their footprints, unleash their pets or pleasure themselves. Did you know? Passage Key was one of the first of 55 “Roosevelt refuges” established by theodore roosevelt, who had been stationed in the region with his rough riders in 1898. passage Key is located at the entrance to tampa Bay and it was a landmark for early Spanish and British explorers, according to the u.S. fish and Wildlife Service. The island was first identified on nautical charts as “isla de San francisco y Leon” and then as “Burnaby island” and “cayo del pasaje,” or “passage Key.”

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28 n Aug. 30, 2017 n THE ISLANDER

Playoffs underway in center adult flag football league By Kevin P. Cassidy Islander Reporter The regular season of the adult flag football league at the Center of Anna Maria Island came to a close Aug. 22 to finalize seedings for the playoffs, which got underway Aug. 24. Mason Martin Construction finished with the best record and earned a first-round bye into the semifinals. The post-season action gets started at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 31, with Beach House Real Estate taking on Cassidy Avis Car Rental, followed at 8:30 p.m. by top-seed Mason Martin Construction versus Moss Builders. First round action got started with No. 4 seed Moss Builders outscoring No. 5 Beach Bums 43-33 behind 180 passing yards and six touchdown passes from quarterback Ryan Moss. Moss spread the ball to Eric Gledhill, Jordan Demers and Ed Moss, who all came through with two touchdown receptions in the victory. Quarterback Chuck Buky led Beach Bums with 250 passing yards, including five touchdown passes. Chad Woods was his top target, finishing with 90 yards and three touchdown catches. Karri Stephens added a touchdown and a 2-point conversion, while Jay Hoffmiester finished with a touchdown, an extra point and 70 receiving yards in the loss. The second game of the evening saw No. 6 seed Avis Car Rental upset No. 3 Talucci Construction 30-27. Danny Murphy threw for 135 yards and two touchdowns, ran for 40 yards and caught four passes for 60 yards in the victory. Mike Brusso caught two touchdown passes, while Nick Sato threw for a touchdown and returned an interception for a touchdown on defense. Lexi Sato added 20 receiving yards and a touchdown, while Jason Sato completed the scoring with a 10-yard touchdown run. Quarterback Ray Gardner threw for 80 yards and two touchdowns while also running for 40 yards and scoring two touchdowns. John DellaTorre threw one touchdown pass and added a touchdown reception, while Nate Talucci finished with 35 receiving yards, including a touchdown and a pair of extra points. The final game of the evening saw Beach House edge Truly Nolen 23-19 behind 170 passing yards and two touchdown passes from Chris Gillum. Jon Moss was his top target, finishing with five catches for 100 yards including a touchdown and a pair of extra points. Mike Gillum added 55 receiving yards including a touchdown and an extra point while Jason Mickan finished with 30 rushing yards and a touchdown. Truly Nolen received two touchdown passes and an extra point from Joe Carder and 35 receiving yards,

Avis Car Rentals receiver Jesse Griffin catches a touchdown pass during the adult flag football season finale Aug. 22 against Mason Martin Construction at the Center of Anna Maria Island. Islander Photos: Kevin P. Cassidy a touchdown and an extra point from Ben Sato. Jake The season gets started Sept. 21 with all games Parsons added a 20-yard touchdown reception, while played Thursday evenings. Pat Calvary completed the Truly Nolen scoring with The center also is looking for sponsors. an interception return for a touchdown. Register at www.centerami.org or 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria. Horseshoe news For more information, call 941-778-1908, ext. The team of Tim Sofran and Hank Huyghe posted 9205. the only 3-0 record in pool play and were the outright champs during Aug. 23 horseshoe action at the Anna Maria City Hall horseshoe pits. Two teams emerged from pool play with 2-1 records during Aug. 26 action. Sofran emphatically earned his second trip in a week to the winner’s circle with a double ringer to cap a 25-12 victory over Steve Doyle and Neil Hennessey. Play gets underway at 9 a.m. every Wednesday and Saturday at the Anna Maria City Hall pits. Warmups begin at 8:45 a.m. followed by random team selection. There is no charge to play and everyone is welcome.

Key Royale golf news The men of Key Royale Club played a nine-hole modified Stableford-system match Aug. 21 to open the week. Ron Vandeman earned clubhouse bragging rights with a plus-2. The women took to the course Aug. 22 for a ninehole individual-low-net match in two flights. Helen Pollock fired an even-par 32 to take first place in Flight A by two strokes over Tootie Wagner, who was alone in second place. Peggi Claus carded a 1-under-par 31 to grab first Holmes Beach driver leads place in Flight B. Marlyn Niewijk took second with a national race standings 1-over-par 33. Though there’s not much room on Anna Maria The men played a nine-hole scramble Aug. 24. Island to practice driving a hot rod, Mark Nowicki of The team of Bill MacMillan, Art McMillan and Tom Holmes Beach somehow caught the racing bug. Nelson combined on a 4-under-par 28 to take first Mason Martin receiver Tim Shaughnessy and Avis He is now sitting on top of the Super Stock division place. Car Rentals defenders Nick Sato and Chris Sullins standings of the International Hot Rod Association’s battle for an incoming pass during the regular-seaSummit Sportsman National Championship competi- Adult soccer signup underway son flag football finale Aug. 22 at the center. tion. Registration for the adult soccer league at the There are 15 races scheduled across the country to Center of Anna Maria Island is underway. For $10, finalize this year’s winners in the IHRA standings and center members can reserve a spot on a team, while Active AMI We know you’re adventuresome — drivers are on the final stretch of the summer competi- nonmembers pay $126. kayaking, hiking, swimming, surfing, paddleboarding, tion. Registration closes Saturday, Sept. 9, and player birdwatching and more. We invite you to share your Put that pedal to the metal Nowicki, and get a win evaluations will take place at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 12, local action shots with our readers. Submit your digital for the island. at the center with the player draft to follow. images with content info to news@islander.org.

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AM City Pier tides; Cortez high tides 7 minutes later — lows 1:06 later

THE ISLANDER n Aug. 30, 2017 n 29

Fish more accommodating by morning, easier on anglers By Capt. Danny Stasny Islander Reporter Fishing around Anna Maria Island remains productive despite the heat and water temps of 90 degrees or better. Fishing early morning around sunrise is most favorable when the winds are calm and the tide is right. On my Southernaire fishing charters, Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m trying to fish the flats first thing in the morning. My reasoning behind this is that the shallower waters tend to heat up quickly as the sun gets up in the sky, which I feel makes the Stasny fish a little less active. Needless to say, its working for me. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m finding plenty of spotted seatrout on flats 3-5 feet deep. The same applies for catch-and-release snook, although they are found in slightly shallower water and up against mangrove shorelines. Finally, redfish are being found primarily around residential docks, with a few mixed in on the flats. As the sun gets higher in the sky, Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m migrating to deeper water to target mangrove snapper and flounder. Fishing the artificial reefs in 25-35 feet of water is producing good action. This deeper water seems to maintain a steady temperature even during the heat of the day, and the fish are in the mood to bite. Also on the reefs are blacktip sharks and barracuda, which adds a nice mix to the bite for someone looking to reel in a fish larger than mangrove snapper â&#x20AC;&#x201D; a photo trophy. Capt. Aaron Lowman also is working nearshore structure for mangrove snapper. Live shiners on a knocker rig are producing a bite for his anglers. On days when the fish are finicky, or if the water is clear, he says free-lining baits is working better. Also, while free-lining shiners, Spanish mackerel are among the snapper, which adds variety to the bite. On the flats, Lowman is finding numerous snook. Mangrove cuts and edges in combination with a strong outgoing tide are the perfect recipe to find these hardfighting backwater fish. Live, free-lined shiners cast among large amounts of chummers are quickly being inhaled by hungry snook â&#x20AC;&#x201D; which are back in season Sept. 1 through November. Snook fishers need to abide slot sizes of not less than 28 inches total length and no more than 33 inches. Jim Malfese at the Rod & Reel Pier is seeing pier fishers reeling up mangrove snapper on a daily basis. Most catches are 10-12 inches, although bigger catches

TideWatch

Red tide not detected

There was no Florida red tide organism, Karenia brevis, reported in Manatee County the week ending Aug. 25. The organism was present elsewhere in Southwest and Northwest Florida. For more information about red tide in Florida, go to myfwc.com/redtidestatus.

are mixed in. While targeting snapper, fishers are encountering flounder, grunts and juvenile grouper. Spanish mackerel are being caught with regularity at the R&R. Small white jigs, silver spoons or Gotcha plugs are enticing these toothy fish to bite. You also may catch jack crevalle, blue runners and skip jacks while targeting the macks at Anna Maria Islandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s northernmost pier. Capt. Rick Gross of Fishy Business Charters is fishing the flats of Tampa Bay with good results. Fishing shallow flats on incoming tides is yielding redfish and catch-and-release snook for clients. Mangrove shorelines and oyster bars are key when trying to locate either species. On deeper grass flats away from the shoreline, spotted seatrout action is proving to be

quite good. While targeting trout, his anglers also are reeling up Spanish mackerel, mangrove snapper and ladyfish. On the nearshore reefs, Gross is bottom fishing for mangrove snapper. Limits of these fish are being taken when the conditions are right. Flounder and Kew West grunts are in the mix. Capt. Warren Girle is finding respectable amounts of mangrove snapper around nearshore and offshore structure. Most catches are 12-16 inches, although bigger snapper are in the mix. Live shiners on a knocker rig are working to attract a bite. Mixed in with the snapper are some â&#x20AC;&#x153;door-matâ&#x20AC;? flounder, along with many juvenile gag and red grouper. In Sarasota Bay, Girle is targeting spotted seatrout. Free-lining live shiners over grass flats of 5-6 feet is resulting in slot-size fish in the cooler for his anglers, as well as some action from Spanish mackerel, bluefish and jack crevalle. Capt. David White of Anna Maria Charters is finding plenty of mangrove snapper while working offshore. Also included in the offshore bite are red grouper, African pompano and a few mahi-mahi. Live shiners are working as bait. To target these species, White is fishing a variety of terrain including hard bottom, wrecks and springs. Moving inshore, White is targeting juvenile tarpon in some of the back bays adjacent to Tampa Bay. Targeting these catch-and-release fish can be challenging, although the fight from a hookup is a great reward. Send high-resolution photos and fishing reports to fish@islander.org.

Jordan Sprauge of Lakewood Ranch prepares his catch, a late-season tarpon, for release. He caught the silver king inside Tampa Bay on a dead bait Aug. 19 while on a charter fishing trip with Capt. Aaron Twins Jesse and Halle Jimenez of Longboat Key Lowman. He and his mates also caught mangrove snapper, Spanish mackerel and spotted seatrout and show off their mahi-mahi Aug. 20. It was caught 30 miles offshore with Capt. David White. some catch-and-release snook.

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30 n Aug. 30, 2017 n THE ISLANDER

isl

Frank and Melissa Williams, left, owners of SteamDesigns graphic art studio in Holmes Beach, surprise retiring UPS driver Judy Sanderson Aug. 22 on her final day. Sanderson retired Aug. 23 after 31 years of deliveries on the island. Islander Photo: Courtesy Melissa Williams

biz

BY SANDY AMBROGI

Don’t believe all you hear

Rumors of demise are wrong don’t believe a word of it, cupcake delights owner Judy owens says. She’s talking about the rumor circulating on the island that her bakery, cupcake delights in the anna maria island centre shopping plaza at 3324 e. Bay drive, Holmes Beach, is closing and a gym is taking over the space. “totally not true,” owen said in a phone interview aug. 18. “the Holmes Beach location is going nowhere. the cupcakes are here to stay.” owens has placed the original cupcake delights location in mount dora on the market, which she feels may be partially responsible for the rumors. “it’s too hard running back and forth,” owens admitted of the lengthy commute. Her daughter had been running the mount dora store, but is now moving to other endeavors. “i just felt it was the right time, and i can focus wholly on the island location,” owens said. Like many island establishments, owens will be taking a brief two-week hiatus in September, when island business owners often take advantage of the “shoulder season” for vacations and to spruce up their establishments before the winter tourism season sets in. Otherwise, Cupcake Delights many flavors may be savored tuesday-Saturday 10 a.m.-6 p.m. until season hours begin in october. the bakery also is available for private parties and meetings. For those hankering for empanades empacurious artisanal has left the kitchen it rented September 2016 from the center of anna maria island and moved to Sarasota. The Empacurious workers are spiffing up a space in the “hip-funky-trendy gulf gate Village,” as they

call it on the eatery website, with eyes on a September opening. also, according the website empacurious.com, their food services in anna maria and Bradenton are closed. Island UPS driver makes final delivery Here’s betting Judy Sanderson knows every address, nook and cranny on anna maria island. She should. Sanderson has been the main island upS driver for the past 15 years, having put in a total of 31 years with the delivery company before turning in her uniform aug. 23. frank and melissa Williams at Steamdesigns graphic design and art studio, 5343 gulf drive, Suite 600, Holmes Beach, have been shipping and receiving packages through Sanderson for years, and thought it fitting to honor her on retiring. the Williams decorated the Steamdesigns door to acknowledge her service and ordered a package for delivery aug. 22 so she would have to make a stop at their shop. Later that afternoon, Sanderson was treated by the Williams to a toast at enrich Bistro, 5629 manatee ave. W., Bradenton. now the only driving for Sanderson will be to the beach and back for some well-deserved R&R. got business news? Let us know. email sandy@ islander.org.

BizCal

Making business fun

it’s not all nose-to-the-grindstone when it comes to chamber of commerce activities in the island area. You can see firsthand the changes to the tiki garden, bar and dining facilities at the ugly grouper as the anna maria island chamber of commerce holds its 11:30 a.m. Wednesday, Sept. 6, luncheon at the Holmes Beach eatery, 5704 marina drive. cost is $15 for members and $25 for non-members. Bayfest 2017 is approaching and the chamber is looking for volunteers and sponsors for one of the island’s largest and longest-running music, crafts and food festival. Contact the chamber office for opportunities to participate. the ami chamber continues to take nominations for small business of the year. See the website for details and nomination forms. for more information, go to the website at annamariaislandchamber.org. or call 941-778-1541. the anna maria island chamber of commerce is at 5313 gulf drive, Holmes Beach. Batter up! the Longboat Key chamber of commerce invites members and their guests Sept. 12 to a night with the tampa Bay rays as they take on the pLeaSe See BiZ cAl, next page

LARGEST “Old Florida with a New Twist” www.a > >À > Ã > `Ài> ÌÞ°V ÊUÊ {£°xÈÇ°xÓÎ{ xÇäÓÊ >À >Ê À ÛiÊUÊ iÃÊ i>V ÊUÊ> > >À > Ã > `Ài> ÌÞ°V

SELECTION OF NEW CONSTRUCTION ON ANNA MARIA ISLAND

620 GLADSTONE LANE, HOLMES BEACH 4 BEDROOMS / 3 BATHS SQFT. 2,265 $930,000

5605 CARISSA ST., HOLMES BEACH 3 BEDROOMS / 2 BATHS SQFT. 1,420 $949,000

306 CLARK DRIVE #A, HOLMES BEACH 3 BEDROOMS /3.5 BATHS SQFT.1,473 $957,000

313 HARDIN AVE., ANNA MARIA 3 BEDROOMS / 3 BATHS SQFT.2,039 $1,195,000

206 N. HARBOR DR., HOLMES BEACH 4 BEDROOMS / 3.5 BATHS SQFT. 2,455 $1,375,000

206 CHURCH ST., BRADENTON BEACH 5 BEDROOMS / 5.5 BATHS SQFT. 3.308 $1,399,000

217 MAGNOLIA AVE., ANNA MARIA 5 BEDROOMS / 4 BATHS SQFT. 2,576 $ 1,495,000

120 NEPTUNE LN., HOLMES BEACH 5 BEDROOMS / 5.5 BATHS SQFT.2,627 $1,950,000

CONTACT AMI BEACHES TO FIND YOUR PERFECT ANNA MARIA ISLAND RETREAT.

THE ISLANDER n Aug. 30, 2017 n 31

BiZ cAl continued from page 30 new York Yankees at tropicana field in St. petersburg. Tickets for outfield seats are $22 each, and gates open at 5:40 p.m. game time is 7:10 p.m. this offer is only available through the LBK chamber. email gail Loefgren at gloefgren@lbkchamber. com to reserve your seat. for more information, call the chamber at 941383-2466 or visit the website at longboatkeychamber. com. the Longboat Key chamber is at 5390 gulf of mexico drive, Longboat Key.

Hancock Bank tellers by day, bartenders by evening, Penny Johnson, left, and Karen Golden turned their teller stations into beverage stations at the bank’s AMI chamber mixer Aug. 23. They also put some noodle art to good use.

Business news

does your business celebrate achievements? maybe you’ve just opened the doors, received an award or recognition or staff deserves kudos. Submit your information to news@islander.org.

PropertyWatch

Island real estate sales

By Jesse Brisson Special to the islander 630 Dundee Lane, Holmes Beach, a 2,869 sfla / 4,557 sfur 4bed/4bath/2car canalfront pool home built in 1967 on a 10,890 sq ft lot was sold 07/31/17, doyle to Beach florida LLc for $1,685,000; list $1,899,000. 113 Los Cedros Drive, Anna Maria, a 2,350 sfla / 3,396 sfur 3bed/2bath/2car canalfront pool home built in 1989 on a 9,040 sq ft lot was sold 07/31/17, Sego to Stoltzfus for $1,240,000; list$1,379,500. 318 64th St., Unit B-9, Holmes Beach, a 2,281 sfla / 3,634 sfur 3bed/3bath/2car condo with pool built in 2007 was sold 08/04/17, Halcyon House LLc to 318 64 LLc for $775,000. 6300 flotilla drive, unit 68, Shell point, Holmes Beach, a 1.181 sfla 2bed/2bath condo with shared pool

Brock Real Estate Inc. Greg Brock REAL ESTATE BROKER

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Prospective Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce member Lauren Ockenfels from Sound Choice Cremations and Burials talks Aug. 23 with Beth Rariden of Your Personal Touch Apparel and Accessories at the Hancock Bank business card mixer. A display of swimming noodle art filled the bank lobby in Holmes Beach as guests noshed on a buffet from the Feast Restaurant. Islander Photos: Sandy Ambrogi

built in 1973 was sold 08/07/17, musto to merli for $320,000; list $329,900. 100 73rd Street, unit 201, coconuts, Holmes Beach, a 680 sfla / 780 sfur 1bed/1bath condo with shared pool built in 1972 was sold 08/07/17, murphy to Bachu for $290,000; list $298,000 522 pine ave., unit 3d, the Bayou, anna maria, a 822 sfla / 882 sfur 2bed/1bath condo built in 1973

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was sold 07/31/18, Hill to fiske for $281,600; list $298,800. 1603 gulf drive n., unit 20, tradewinds, Bradenton Beach, a 540 sfla 1bed/1bath condo with shared pool built in 1971 was sold 08/04/17, fineout to Braciak for $248,000; list $254,999. Jesse Brisson, broker/associate at Gulf-Bay Realty of Anna Maria, can be reached at 941-778-7244.

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32 n Aug. 30, 2017 n THE ISLANDER

Sandy’s Lawn Service Inc. Established in 1983 Residential and Commercial Full service lawn maintenance Landscaping – Clean-up Hauling tree trimming Licensed & Insured

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ISLANDERCLASSIFIEDS ITEMS FOR SALE

HELP WANTED

GE DRYER, EXCELLENT, double recliner, leather, as new, Simmons mattress, like new. $100 each. 941-778-5542.

HOUSEKEEPER: PART-TIME at Haley’s Motel. Must have own transportation and speak English. Prior experience required. Haley’s is a nonsmoking property. 941-778-5405.

ANTIQUE PARTNER DESK: All wood, $1,000. See at The Islander ofﬁce, 3218 E. Bay Drive, Holmes Beach. FOUR OAK OFFICE chairs: Antiques, perfect for eclectic dining set. The Islander newspaper, 3218 E. Bay Drive, Holmes Beach. ONLINE SERVICE: Did you know you can place classified ads and subscribe online with our secure server? Check it out at www.islander. org.

FREEBIE ITEMS FOR SALE

Bed: A bargain!

King, Queen, Full & Twin, pre-owned from $30 new/used. 941-922-5271 www.sleepking.net

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, fax toll-free 1-866-3629821. (limited time offer)

ANNOUNCEMENTS WANTED: WORKOUT DVDs and retired but working XBox, Wii units with games for Ministry of Presence for kids and teens in Haiti. Deliver to The Islander, 3218 E. Bay Drive, Holmes Beach. MOONRACER RESCUE LOOKING for donations of old wooden doors, wood pallets and tennis balls, mufﬁn/cupcake to-go containers for project! moonraceranimalrescue@gmail.com. 941345-2441. WANTED: YOUR OLD cell phone for recycling. Deliver to The Islander, 3218 E. Bay Drive, Holmes Beach.

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AERIAL PHOTOS of Anna Maria Island. View and purchase online: www.jackelka.com.

AMI CENTRE, 3218 E. BAY DRIVE, HOLMES BEACH 941 778-7978 • WWW.ISLANDER.ORG

FREE GUN LOCK courtesy of Project Childsafe, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and Holmes Beach Police Department. Pick up at The Islander ofﬁce, 3218 E. Bay Drive, Holmes Beach. Don’t be sorry, be safe.

AdoptA-Pet

GARAGE SALES

Abby is a 7-year-old mixed-breed dog. she enjoys walks and belly rubs. she’s a sweet and friendly couch potato. she gets along nicely with large dogs, but not a fan of small dogs or cats. she has a tail that never stops, earning her nickname “Wags!” to meet her, please, email moonraceranimalrescue@gmail.com or call 941-896-6701. check out our website at www.moonraceranimalrescue. com or visit The Islander ofﬁce next to Walgreens in Holmes Beach for more … SPONSORED BY

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NOW HIRING-Part to-full time screen printer in small island business. Will train, starting at $10. Call 941-778-6541 for appointment. REPORTER WANTED: Full- to part-time. Print media, newspaper experience or journalism degree required. Apply via email with letter of interest to news@islander.org.

KIDS FOR HIRE KIDS FOR HIRE ads are FREE for up to three weeks for Island youths under 16 looking for work. Ads must be placed in person at The Islander ofﬁce, 3218 E. Bay Drive, Holmes Beach.

SERVICES ISLAND COMPUTER GUY, 37 years experience. On-site PC repairs, upgrades, buying assistance and training. Call Bill, 941-778-2535. T.H.S. CLEANING: RESIDENTIAL, COMMERCIAL vacation rentals. Dependable and detailed. 941756-4570. POWER WASHING AND windows: Residential, commercial, resort, real estate. Ask about our exterior cleaning. 941-251-5948. AUTHORITY ONE SERVICES: Cleaning, construction, residential, commercial, rentals. Call 941-251-5948.

U FLY I drive your car anywhere in the USA. Airport runs, anywhere. Ofﬁce, 941-447-6389. 941-545-6688. NEED A RIDE to the airports? Tampa $65, St. Pete, $55, Sarasota, $30. Call Gary, 863-4095875. Email: gvoness80@gmail.com.

ROSER THRIFT SHOP: Half-price sale on all clothing: 9:30 a.m.-2 p.m. Tuesday and Thursday, Aug. 22-24. Open 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday. Closed September, still accepting donations 9-11 a.m. Wednesdays. 511 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. 941-779-2733.

NO WORRIES! PEGGY, R.N. care, seniors. Sitting for kids and pets, errands, rides, cleaning, etc. 727-902-7784.

PETS

FEMALE CAREGIVER SEEKING employment. Light housekeeping, making meals, running errands. Certiﬁed, references. Call Michelle, 801833-8146.

PET PAL PET sitting: Short and long term, in your house or mine. 18-year Island resident. 941-7045937. e.davies5937@gmail.com. YOU CAN HELP! Foster or volunteer for Moonracer No Kill Animal Rescue. www.moonraceranimalrescue.com to apply.

CYNDIMARIE’S LAUNDRY SERVICE: Wash, dry, fold, put away. Your home. 941-242-3476

BUSINESS-TO-BUSINESS JD’s Window Cleaning looking for storefront jobs in Holmes Beach. I make dirty windows sparkling clean. 941-9203840.

BIMINI BAY SAILING: Small sailboat rentals and instruction. Day. Week. Month. Sunﬁsh, Laser, Windrider 17 and Precision 15. Call Brian at 941685-1400.

BEACH SERVICE air conditioning, heat, refrigeration. Commercial and residential service, repair and/or replacement. Serving Manatee County and the Island since 1987. For dependable, honest and personalized service, call Bill Eller, 941-795-7411. CAC184228.

PONTOON BOAT RENTAL Create life long memories. Call 941-778-2121 or see boatﬂorida.net.

THE ISLANDER. The best news on Anna Maria Island since 1992.

FISHING FOR a good deal? Always look in The Islander, 941-778-7978.

$10 DINER MUGS

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ANSWERS TO AUG. 30 PUZZLE

IMMEDIATE OPENINGS AT Jessie’s Island Store. Full-time night cashier, 4-5 nights per week, parttime cashier’s assistant, 5-9 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Apply in person, ask for Jimmy or April. 5424 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach.

Place classiﬁed ads online at www.islander.org

@ The Islander, 3218 E. Bay Drive, HB

THE ISLANDER n Aug. 30, 2017 n 33

HOME IMPROVEMENT Continued

ANYONE CAN TAKE a picture. A professional creates a portrait. I want to be at your wedding! www.jackelka.com. 941-778-2711.

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

RELAXING MASSAGE IN the convenience of your home or hotel. Massage by Nadia, more than 19 years on Anna Maria Island. Call today for an appointment, 941-518-8301. MA#0017550. MA#0017550.

LAWN & GARDEN CONNIEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S LANDSCAPING INC. Residential and commercial. Full-service lawn maintenance, landscaping, cleanups, hauling and more! Insured. 941-778-5294. TREES BY BREEZE: Tree trimming, landscapes, maintenance, insured. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s said is good as done.â&#x20AC;? 941-778-2837.

GRIFFINâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S HOME IMPROVEMENTS Inc. Handyman, ďŹ ne woodwork, countertops, cabinets and wood ďŹ&#x201A;ooring. Insured and licensed. 941-722-8792. JERRYâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S HOME REPAIR: Carpentry, handyman, light hauling, pressure washing. Jack of all trades. Call 941-778-6170 or 941-447-2198. ISLE TILE: QUALITY installation ďŹ&#x201A;oors, counters, backsplashes, showers. Licensed, insured. Call Chris at 941-302-8759.

ISLAND LAWN SPRINKLER Service: Repairs, installs. Your local sprinkler company since 1997. Call Jeff, 941-778-2581.

ANNA MARIA HOME Accents: 20 years experience in building and remodeling. Local, licensed and insured. No job too small. We accept all major credit cards. 786-318-8585.

SHELL DELIVERED AND spread. $55/yard. Hauling all kinds of gravel, mulch, top soil with free estimates. Call Larry at 941-795-7775, â&#x20AC;&#x153;shell phoneâ&#x20AC;? 941-720-0770.

I CAN FIX that! No job too small. 20 years experience. Remodel, new construction. Call Brent, 941-524-6965.

NATUREâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S DESIGN LANDSCAPING. Design and installation. Tropical landscape specialist. Residential and commercial. 35 years experience. 941-448-6336.

PROFESSIONAL PAINTING SERVICES: Prompt and reliable, meticulous, thorough, quality workmanship. Interior/exterior, wallpaper removal. Also minor repairs and carpentry. Free written estimates. Bill Witaszek, 941-3079315.

STRAIGHT SHOT LANDSCAPE: Shell, lime rock, palms, river rock, construction demolition, fencing, pressure washing, hauling debris and transport. Shark Mark, 941-301-6067.

HOME IMPROVEMENT VAN-GO PAINTING residential/commercial, interior/exterior, pressure cleaning, wallpaper. Island references. Bill, 941-795-5100. www.vangopainting.net. CUSTOM REMODELING EXPERT. All phases of carpentry, repairs and painting. Insured. Meticulous, clean, sober and prompt. Paul Beauregard, 941-730-7479.

The Islander office has moved next to Walgreens at AMI Centre Shops, 3218 E. Bay Drive, Holmes Beach. Come see us!

THE HANDYMAN: BESPOKE Services. Island resident. All your home and ofďŹ ce repair needs. Also docks and patio wood decks repaired, renewed, cleaned. Estimates free. Richard, 941-448-3571. LOOKING FOR A GOOD DEAL? You can read Wednesdayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s classiďŹ eds on Tuesday at www. islander.org. And itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s FREE!

MONTHLY, FURNISHED RENTAL: 2BR/2BA, pool, ground floor, laundry. No pets/drugs. $3,600/month. 941-363-1227.

POOL CAGES, LANAIS, PORCHES, WINDOWS, DOORS

TOO BIG or TOO SMALL. Free Estimates. Call Dan, 941-713-3108

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REAL ESTATE PHOTOGRAPHY

.com

941-778-2711 TURN THE PAGE for more Islander classiďŹ eds.

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CLASSIFIED RATES: Minimum $12 for up to 15 WORDS. 16-30 words: $20. 31-45 words: $40. BOX ad: additional $4. (Phone number is a "word.")

The deadline is NOON Monday every week for Wednesdayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s paper. _________

DANâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S RESCREEN INC.

WEEKLY/MONTHLY/ANNUAL rentals: wide variety, changes daily. SunCoast Real Estate, 941-779-0202, or 1-800-732-6434. www.suncoastinc.com.

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RENTALS

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Web site: www.islander.org 3218 E. Bay Drive Holmes Beach FL 34217

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SERVICES Continued

Family Owned and Operated since 1975

Residential & Commercial

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E-mail: classifieds@islander.org Fax toll free: 1-866-362-9821 Phone: 941-778-7978

@ami_islander

34 n Aug. 30, 2017 n THE ISLANDER

I S L A N D E R

C L A S S I F I E D S

RENTALS Continued

REAL ESTATE Continued

ANNUAL RENTAL: 5BR/2.5BA, boat dock, boat lift, large pool, fenced yard, landscaped, (pool and landscaping maintenance included), right off the island, four houses from the bay! $3,500/ month. Contact Steve, 908-642-4340.

STARTING FROM THE upper $200,000s. Only minutes from the beach, this new, active adult community is perfectly located just south of Manatee Avenue off Village Green Parkway. Perfectly designed, open 2BR or 3BR/2BA plus den and two-car garage ďŹ&#x201A;oor plans. Luxurious amenities, pool, spa, gym, pickleball and fenced-in dog park. HOA only $190/month. Models open daily. Contact us, 941-254-3330. www.MirabellaFlorida.com.

OPEN HOUSE: 11:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Sept. 1-2. 529 69th St., Holmes Beach. 941-807-5300.

REAL ESTATE REAL ESTATE: BUY, sell, invest. Enjoy. Billi Gartman, Realtor, An Island Place Realty. 941-5458877. www.AnnaMariaLife.com. SLIGHTLY OFF THE Island: 3BR/2BA completely renovated lake house, 5 miles from the beach. No condo/HOA fees, no deed restrictions, no trafďŹ c, huge boat/RV storage area. $334,900. www.690932nd.com. For sale by owner. 941-795-5225.

HOME FOR SALE: Harbour Isle on Anna Maria Sound. Coach home, 3BR/2BA, lanai, retreat with water and preserve views, new marina, beach club. Exceptional. $599,900. Call Dave Lorman at Re/Max Alliance, 941-779-4999. FIND GREAT DEALS on wheels and everything else in The Islander, 941-778-7978.

ISLAND RESIDENCE

Impeccably maintained 4BR3.5BA elevated residence with Fabulous Bay and Intracoastal Waterway views. Built in 1999 and second-floor addition in 2008, offering 3,600 sf of living area, 2 master suites, new kitchen in 2017, metal roof and deeded shared dock agreement. Convenient quiet location with short walk to beach. Adjacent Bayfront lot is also available. Offered at $939,500.

All real estate advertising herein is subject to the Fair Housing Act, which makes it illegal to advertise any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status or national origin, or intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination Familial status includes children under age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians, pregnant women and people securing custody of children under 18. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. To complain of discrimination, call HUD toll-free at 1-800-669-9777 or for the hearing impaired, call 0-800-543-8294. EXPERIENCE REPUTATION RESULTS SALES/RENTALS 43 Years of Professional Service to Anna Maria Island

Heronâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Watch 10 minutes to beaches. 4 BR + Den. Excellently maintained, tastefully decorated. MLS A4142821. $373,900.

2217 GULF DRIVE, BRADENTON BEACH

101-103 26th St. W. BUILD NEW with river view, keep historical cottage. $419,000. VACATION/SEASONAL RENTALS GULFFRONT PROPERTIES BOOKING NOW

For details call associates Dave Moynihan 941-7200089, or Miguel Rosa, 941-447-5928.

941-778-0807

tdolly1@yahoo.com â&#x20AC;˘ www.tdollyyoungrealestate.com

MIKE NORMAN REALTY EST. 1978

COME TO VISIT, STAY A LIFETIME

0!2!$)3% #/44!'% 3!,% 02)#% 0%4 &2)%.$,9 6!#!4)/. 2%.4!, .)'(4

ptional customer service for all your short or long lifetime, we will help you find your perfect

MIKE NORMAN REALTY EST. 1978

For professional real estate sales, call a true island native, born and raised on Anna Maria Island. Marianne Norman-Ellis. 941.778.6696

Mike Norman Realty RUNAWAY BAY Located just across the street from the beach. 2BR/2BT condo with lake view and turn-key furnishings. Complex offers huge pool, tennis court,and fishing pier. $328,000.

DREAM VACATIONS FOR YOUR VACATION DREAMS

ght needâ&#x20AC;Śâ&#x20AC;Ś..buy, rent and finance your piece of

6),,! #()!.4) 3!,% 02)#% 6!#!4)/. 2%.4!, 7%%+

PALMA SOLA PARK Immaculate 3BR/2BA home located on a large corner lot. Tons of natural light pours in through the many new windows. Gorgeous terrazzo floors were recently polished and truly sparkle and shine. Updated kitchen, carport and new paint. $349,000

Make Your Life Easier!â&#x20AC;? For the island lifestyle, call

Lynn Zemmer, 941-778-8104.

941-778-8104 Ofc 877-778-0099 Toll Free 104 Bridge Street, Bradenton Beach

877-778-0099 Toll Free Edgewatervacationhomes.com et, Bradenton Edgewaterrealestateami.com Beach mer Broker/Owner

Gulf-Bay Realty of Anna Maria Inc. Jesse Brisson - Broker Associate, GRI 941-713-4755 800-771-6043

â&#x20AC;&#x153;We Work Hard To Make Your Life Easier!â&#x20AC;?

vacationhomes.com 104 Bridge St., Bradenton Beach 1lending.com 941-778-8104

1301&35: ."/"(&.&/5 t 3&"- &45"5& 4"-&4 t 7"$"5*0/ 3&/5"-4

BEACH FRONT CONDO 2BR/2BT furnished unit in a direct Gulffront complex. Offers a large heated pool, covered parking, secured entrance, elevator and storage unit. $599,000

Mike Norman Realty INC

800-367-1617 941-778-6696 31O1 GULF DR HOLMES BEACH www.mikenormanrealty.com sales@mikenormanrealty.com

BEAUTY ON THE CANAL: This 3bed/2bath on a corner lot is surrounded with water. The home features an open plan with, spacious lanai, 2-car garage, pool, tiki hut, boat dock, boat lift, all on a lush tropical large corner lot on sailboat water. $749,900

SOLD

SWEEPING GULF VIEWS: This 2bed/2bath condo at Anna Maria Island Club has breathtaking Gulf views from the living room and master bedroom. A rare opportunity to own at one of the most soughtafter condo complexes on the Island. $699,000

Call Jesse Brisson â&#x20AC;˘ 941-713-4755

RELEASE DATE: 8/27/2017

New York Times Sunday Magazine Crossword

THE ISLANDER n Aug. 30, No.2017 0820n 35

FOUND IN YOUR INBOX

BY RUTH BLOOMFIELD MARGOLIN / EDITED BY WILL SHORTZ

49 Part of a locust tree 1 Matisse, e.g., 53 Place to say 9-Down stylistically 55 Help 6 H. H. Munro 56 Quenched pseudonym 58 World leader who 10 XXX proclaimed “Women hold up half the sky” 14 Back up on disk 59 Bathday cakes? 18 Cons 61 Kind of diagram 19 Juicy 20 Seats by the orchestra 62 Dwellers on the Arabian Peninsula pit, perhaps 65 Re: ____ (film 21 Film excerpt director’s subject 22 Re: ____ (suitor’s line) subject line) 69 Re: ____ (sales 25, 27, 29, etc. agent’s subject 26 The first pope, to line … with an French speakers attachment) 27 Words before fat and 72 Peanut butter choice lean, in a nursery 73 Municipal regs. rhyme 75 Prefix with liberal or 28 The Gabor sisters, conservative, but not e.g. moderate 29 Re: ____ (stingy 76 Slippery sort date’s subject line) 77 One is usually set by 34 Hairstyle rarely seen a chair in the military 80 Purpose 37 Apply to 81 Talk smack about 38 Formally chooses 85 Baseball exec Bud 39 The crystal in some 88 Re: ____ (duster’s crystal balls subject line) 41 Carrier to Seoul, for 91 Tony winner Hagen short 92 $$$$, on Yelp 42 The lowest of the low 94 “Selma” director 44 Catering staple DuVernay 45 Re: ____ (song 95 Greek gods’ drink lyricist’s subject 97 “Down,” at a diner line) 100 Pithy observations Online subscriptions: Today’s 103 Best-of-the-best puzzle and more Answers: 104 Re: ____ (prison than 4,000 past puzzles, librarian’s subject page 32 nytimes.com/crosswords ($39.95 a year). line) AC RO SS

108 Hansen of a 2016 Broadway hit

14 Like the people who invented golf 109 Sidney who directed 15 Astronaut after whom Buzz Lightyear was “12 Angry Men” named 110 Actress Arquette 16 Couch potato 114 The Destroyer, in 17 Some home printers Hinduism 19 Title Seuss creature 115 Re: ____ (celebrity 23 “Stop!,” to a cop 24 Lowly worker 119 Mark Zuckerberg 30 Bugged when founding 31 Short and detached, in Facebook, e.g. music: Abbr. 120 Eliminated by a ref’s 32 Surefire decision 33 Expert on meters and 121 Heavenly hunter feet 122 Monastery figure 34 An official color of the Miami Dolphins 123 European capital 35 Roll up 124 Repair shop figs. 36 Tirade 125 Stuff 126 Simple, as a question 40 Den, often 42 Gucci or Givenchy, e.g. DOWN 43 The first “A” in 1 Online help Reddit’s A.M.A. 2 “Are you some kind of 46 Mesmerized ____?” 47 “You bet!,” in Yucatán 3 Lone Star State sch. 48 Radiuses’ neighbors 4 Guest 50 Marriott competitor 5 Perfume compound 51 Third one’s a harm? 6 Inspector Clouseau’s 52 Wine’s aroma employer 54 China setting 7 “A Navel” artist, 1923 57 Doofus 8 Wine-and-cassis drink 60 Novelist Seton 9 See 53-Across 61 Mesa ____ National 10 Dalmatian, e.g. Park 11 Lilylike plant 63 Moaning Hogwarts 12 Tot’s “Lemme up on ghost your shoulders!” 64 Not even close 13 Old-fashioned 65 The Red Baron and gunfight locales others physician’s subject line)

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66 Northern Montana tribe 67 Poker player’s tic, perhaps 68 ____ Python 70 Depose 71 Cubbie or Card 74 From the top, to a musician 78 Sierras, e.g. 79 Want ad letters

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80 Take the heat from?

107 Paris’s Musée d’____

82 Motorcade unit

96 “Is that even possible?” 83 Lee of Marvel Comics 97 Must pay 98 Main forces? 84 Storied also-ran 99 See the world 86 Apple product discontinued in 2017 100 Tea times: Abbr. 101 Ransom note writer 87 Tennis’s Steffi 102 Deseret News 89 Through with reader, e.g. 90 Like some training 105 “Turn up the A/C!” 93 Quarantine 106 Must have

111 Fleet on Fleet Street 112 With 117-Down, Mesabi Range output 113 Regarding 116 Thick coat on a cold day? 117 See 112-Down 118 Small inlet

Visit WWW.ISLANDER.ORG for the best news on Anna Maria Island.

Everything you’re looking for

www.annamariaislandresorts.net

877.867.8842

36 n Aug. 30, 2017 n THE ISLANDER