The Islander Newspaper E-Edition: Wednesday, March 13, 2019 by The Anna Maria Islander Newspaper

More clams. 3

celebrating st. Pat’s day. 11

tour of homes ahead. 16 Astheworldterns put on their blarney. 6

MARCH 13, 2019 FREE

VOLUME 27, NO. 20

Record numbers soak up Florida sunshine. 2 Sunshine suit defendants counter. 4

Celebrating the Best News on Anna Maria Island Since 1992

On the government calendar. 4

Judge rules for city in treehouse owners’ case

Meetings

Op-Ed

The Islander editorial, reader letters. 6

10-20 Years ago

From the archives. 7

BB’s dock parts arrive at storage yard. 8 Bat ‘escape’ routes installed on Longboat Pass Bridge. 8

Happenings

Community announcements, activities. 10-11 Make plans, save a date. 12-13 Community radio hopes to broadcast to Cortez area. 14 Island Players act out French farce. 15 Ousted AM code officer alleges toxic workplace. 17

Gathering. 20

Obituaries.

Celebrating Dr. Seuss, driving reading. 23

Streetlife. 25 Pocketful of good luck. 27

Youth football winds up. 28 Know weather conditions, best bait for catch. 29

isl BiZ

Real estate prices rise for 2018. 31

PropertyWatch. 32 CLASSIFIEDS. 32 NYT crossword. 35

By Kathy prucnell Islander Reporter it’s another victory for the city. the city of Holmes Beach took home a win the week of march 4 as a judge dismissed the owners’ petition to halt the destruction of their treehouse. twelfth circuit Judge charles Sniffen ruled the owners’ petition was deficient a day after the parties faced off in his manatee county courtroom. the judge granted the city’s dismissal motion, reasoning the temporary injunction petition filed by treehouse owners Lynn tran and richard Hazen was “deficient in several critical respects.” Sniffen cited the owners’ failure to allege a factual basis for their concern that imminent harm will befall the treehouse. His order also states the owners failed to request permanent relief and, to the extent the petition seeks to stop fines, he ruled the owners failed to allege an adequate remedy. Also, in his ruling, Sniffen allowed Tran

and Hazen 20 days to amend their pleadings. Tran, who represented herself and her husband, said march 8 she is considering filing an amendment to the pleading. “Because it’s one way to keep the treehouse, i won’t rule it out, tran said. “i’m just learning,” she added, saying she believes she needs to allege a cause of action for permanent relief. it was the first of two proceedings for attorney Jim dye of dye, Harrison, Kirkland, petruff, pratt & St. paul, representing Holmes Beach. a separate march 5 proceeding brought new hearing dates. tran argued against dye’s conclusion the owners’ petition was “rogue,” but dye said such an injunction must be based on an underlying dispute presented as a separate cause of action. Dye said Tran should be making her arguments in other ongoing court cases. the florida department of environmental protection, like the city, is a defendant in

rash of identity, credit thefts spur HBPd investigation, arrest

Fran and Wayne Derr of Key Royale in Holmes Beach check their mail March 7. The Derrs were victims of identity thieves who attempted to obtain credit cards using their names. Islander Photo: ChrisAnn Silver Esformes

By ChrisAnn Silver Esformes Islander Reporter In the digital age, personal information can be easy to access. Samuel casamayor abreu, 27, of Hialeah — linked to multiple identity thefts that occurred since february in Holmes Beach — was arrested march 1 on four counts of credit card fraud and four counts of criminal use of identification. a female suspect remains under investigaAbreu tion. all but one of the thefts, in which credit cards were ordered under a victim’s name then retrieved by the perpetrator upon delivery, occurred in the Key royale neighbor-

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The treehouse in January. Islander File Photo: Kathy Prucnell the injunction case. Kirk White, a dep attorney, appeared telephonically but did not add to the argument. However, White filed a motion to dismiss similar to the city’s motion. on march 5, a day after the arguments before Sniffen, david Levin of icard merrill of Sarasota took the lead for the owners before Judge edward nicholas in two pending treehouse cases — the 2013 owners’ constitutional case and the 2018 city code enforcement case. Levin and dye agreed to schedule hearings at 9 a.m. april 29 on the 2013 case; a 3:30 p.m. may 9 hearing to judicially notice PlEASE SEE treehOUse, PAGE 5

spring break brings biz to aMi

By Sandy Ambrogi Islander Reporter the digital sign near the Kingfish Boat Ramp on Manatee Avenue west of the Anna maria island Bridge flashes an alert: “no fires, dogs, camping or alcohol allowed on beach.” It’s time for spring break, and people hood, according to Holmes Beach police arriving to the island are ready to celebrate detective Sgt. Brian Hall. “it’s crazy. i’ve never had a cluster of with a few days of fun in the sun. “We’re just giving people a bit of edumultiple victims in one location before,” cation as they enter,” Holmes Beach police Hall said. “So this is very unique.” in some situations, the cards or related chief Bill tokajer told the islander march materials were mailed to the victims, prompt- 5. “it’s the same rules we always have.” “and,” he added. “pack your patience ing police inquiries. in other instances, a credit card was mailed to a different address and leave early.” officials at tampa international airport and then used by the perpetrator to purchase thousands of dollars worth of items from announced march 4 they expect 3.6 million Best Buy and other retail establishments in passengers to arrive at the airport in the next six weeks. the state. Spring break is typically the six-week Hall was contacted march 1 by Best Buy representatives who said abreu was identi- period spanning march and the first two fied in surveillance videos and currently was weeks of april, when some colleges and K-12 schools are on spring vacation. Some at a store at 4210 14th St. W., Bradenton. the manatee county Sheriff’s office schools break later in april, depending on PlEASE SEE ID theft, page 3 PlEASE SEE sPrING, page 2

2 n MARcH 13, 2019 n THE ISLANDER

Record numbers soak up Florida sunshine

Yes, lots of people are here. Visit florida estimates 30.3 million visitors traveled not just on anna maria island, but all over flor- to the state in the fourth quarter of 2018, an increase of ida. 4.6 percent over the same period in 2017. a record number of out-of-state visitors — 126.1 the highest percentage of domestic visitors million — traveled to florida in 2018, according to came from georgia, with 9.6 percent; followed by statistics from Visit florida, the tourism marketing new York, 8.5 percent. texas, ohio and pennsylcorporation for the state. vania rounded out the top five states providing the for the eighth consecutive year, visitation set a most visitors. record. the most popular activities for domestic visitors Visitors had an economic impact in manatee were the beach and waterfront activities, visiting county of $973,798,000. friends and relatives and culinary experiences. domestic visits numbered 111.8 million in the overseas travelers to florida, on the other hand, state. overseas travelers made 10.8 million visits and cited shopping as the top draw. 3.5 million canadians came south. — Sandy Ambrogi tion alert, and Kinder sent the couple over. enoch said business ticked up in march and he is “We got them set up for two weeks,” Kinder said. seeing more families on vacation than college students “from all we are seeing, it’s going to be a great spring on spring break. season here.” “We increase our staff and our orders,” he said. Kinder said the majority of inquiries to the cham- “We love it.” ber have come from couples, followed by families. Anyone out and about on Anna Maria Island will probably notice an uptick in cyclists and golf carts, Full lodgings beneﬁt many businesses along with scooters and Segways. Some visitors try Vacation rental companies aren’t the businesses their hand at kayaking and paddleboarding. all these that profit from the spring break influx. island eateries items are for rent from local businesses. and bars fill up, live music venues are hot stops for Kelly crawford teaches kindergarten at anna breakers and paddleboards, kayaks and other “island” Maria Elementary, and her husband, Shawn, owns rental items are popular commodities. florida Sportfishing outfitters. While crawford is While some restaurants maintain the status quo, looking forward to her own spring break from teachothers feature drink and food specials to draw spring ing, she admits she won’t see much of her husband breakers. during her time off. Shawn culhane, manager of the ugly grouper, “He is booked every day that week,” crawford 5704 marina drive, Holmes Beach, said the restaurant told the islander. “But this is a wonderful thing, conis serving breakfast and morning beverage specials. sidering what the red tide did to the charter captain the outdoor eatery also will feature live music during businesses in the fall and winter. i’ll just hang out.” lunch and early afternoons and at dinner. Just how many of the 3.6 million passengers travtanner enoch and crew at the anna maria island eling into tia between now and mid-april will make Beach cafe at manatee public Beach are no strangers their way to Anna Maria Island? to high volume. Time will tell, but islanders are ready and waiting “it’s what we live for,” he told the islander. for them.

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sPrING continued from page 1 easter’s date. officials expect the 2019 spring break to be the largest ever in the tampa Bay area, according to a news release from tia. accommodations on the island are filling up, according to rental agencies polled by the islander. “our 250 vacation rental properties are 99 percent full for march and about 75 percent full for april,” Joe Varner of anna maria Vacations told the islander march 6. “Love spring breakers!” he said. “and, summer is filling up very nicely, too.” Varner was scrambling to finish renovations at the former Blue Water Beach club, 6306 gulf drive, Holmes Beach, now the anna maria Beach resort. Barbara Baker, general manager of Anna Maria island resorts — tortuga, tropic isle, Seaside and tradewinds resorts — said starting the week of march 11, the properties are “pretty much booked completely” through the end of march. “We are looking good,” she said, adding that some scattered dates are available in the first two weeks of april. in anna maria, Suzette Buchan said her rod and reel motel is 98 percent booked for march and 77 percent booked the first weeks of april. in 2018, 93.2 percent of lodging rooms on anna maria island were booked in march, with an average room rate of $242.40 per night. people calling or stopping by the anna maria island chamber of commerce in Holmes Beach have not only been inquiring about island activities. Sometimes they are searching for immediate lodging. Such was the case march 6, when a couple arriving in the area stopped for help. “they were looking for a two-week stay on the island. no reservations. they were on vacation, heard about anna maria, drove down and decided they wanted to stay,” chamber president terri Kinder told the islander. Kinder found them a room. a chamber business member had called earlier in the day with a cancella-

THE ISLANDER n March 13, 2019 n 3

People spend time with friends, relax and dine with the Gulf of Mexico over their shoulder in June 2018 at Manatee Public Beach, 4000 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. An all-time high of 126.1 million people visited Florida in 2018. Islander File Photo: Sandy Ambrogi

Holmes Beach Police Detective Sgt. Brian Hall thumbs through police reports March 7 at the HBPD at city hall, 5801 Marina Drive.

ID theft continued from page 1 detained the suspect and a woman, who were later interviewed by Hall. Fran Derr of Dundee Lane on Key Royale said she and her husband, Wayne, received letters from two credit card companies thanking them for their applications.

Milestones

The Islander welcomes stories about islanders and island life, as well as photographs and notices of the milestones in readersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; lives â&#x20AC;&#x201D; weddings, births, anniversaries, travels, obituaries and other events. Submit your announcements and photographs with captions for publication â&#x20AC;&#x201D; along with contact information â&#x20AC;&#x201D; to news@islander.org. Also, visit us on Facebook and join the 12,300-plus friends who â&#x20AC;&#x153;likeâ&#x20AC;? The Islander and share their social news.

She said her husband went online and requested a credit report, which revealed that someone had accessed their report, including personal information, four times. As the welcome committee chairperson in the Key Royale community, Fran Derr said she speaks often with people in the neighborhood. Once word of the identity theft got out, more people approached her and said their information also was compromised. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It makes you feel very vulnerable,â&#x20AC;? Derr said. She said the Key Royale homeownerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s association director sent email to members warning them of the thefts and more people came forward to file reports. Hall said March 7 that it appears the perpetrator was tracking FedEx deliveries for the fraudulent credit cards and stealing the packages. He recommended people send mail with personal information directly from a post office since it appears thieves are stealing mail from residential mailboxes to obtain data and open lines of credit. Hall also said fraudulent charges should be reported

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to credit card companies as soon as possible. Additionally, if a line of credit is compromised, most credit companies will offer a year of free credit monitoring. Hall said people can contact three credit bureaus â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Equifax, Experion and TransUnion â&#x20AC;&#x201D; to lock accounts so lines of credit require strict verification. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I believe the guy I arrested and the female with him are going to be responsible for all the cases,â&#x20AC;? Hall said March 7. â&#x20AC;&#x153;But weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re still investigating further.â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;Now that weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve made an arrest, we believe there will be additional victims, and we would like them to immediately reach out to the police department so we can do follow-up,â&#x20AC;? Holmes Beach Police Chief Bill Tokajer said March 8. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The sooner we can get the info, the sooner we can get with the businesses involved to see videos of who was utilizing the fraudulent cards, and come out with a good conclusion for our victims and the city.â&#x20AC;? Abreu was released March 2 after posting $40,000 bail. He has pleaded not guilty to the charges and was appointed a public defender.

4 n MARcH 13, 2019 n THE ISLANDER

Sunshine suit defendants offer ‘compromise’

ChrisAnn Silver Esformes Islander Reporter the clock is ticking. two settlement offers are on the table in the Bradenton Beach versus citizens lawsuit, but it remains to be seen which — if any — will be accepted. at a march 7 Bradenton Beach commission meet- Clarke ing, the mayor and commissioners unanimously voted to set a march 18 deadline for the defendants to respond to a settlement offer by the city in the lawsuit initiated

I+iconSOUTHEAST works March 8 to re-drive two T-end pilings for the new Anna Maria City Pier that were obstructed by buried wood piles remaining from the old pier. Icon planned to begin working on pile-driving for the pier walkway by the week of March 11. Islander Photo: Ryan Paice

Obstructions delay city pier walkway pile-driving By ryan paice Islander Reporter pile-driving for the new anna maria city pier walkway is slated to begin after a short delay the week of march 4. anna maria mayor dan murphy said march 8 that i+iconSoutHeaSt workers were installing two pilings that were obstructed by broken wood piles remaining from the old pier at the t-end. Work re-driving the piles was to finish by march 9, according to murphy. following the corrective work, walkway pile-driving will begin. Sixty 12-inch diameter concrete pilings were loaded and brought by barge from a shipyard in Hillsborough county march 2. the 776-foot dock walkway will be supported by 136 pilings, more than two-thirds of the 206 pilings planned for the structure. murphy said walkway pile-driving was to begin the week of march 11 near the t-end, where 24 pilings will be driven into the bay. next, icon will drive 24 pilings, starting at the shore side and moving east. the 88 remaining walkway pilings in the middle will be driven last. after icon finishes pile-driving, the next step will be to install a concrete deck on the t-end and wood bents for the walkway. The bents will shoulder the load of the ipe wood decking for the walkway. the t-end concrete platform also will be topped with ipe wood. the city’s contract with icon requires the contractor to complete the walkway and t-end by aug. 26 or pay a $975 penalty for every workday after. murphy said icon remains on pace to finish on deadline. the city has not yet prepared a request for proposals to construct the restaurant and bait shop at the t-end.

by ex-mayor Jack clarke and joined by the city against six former city board members. the city’s settlement offer would require the six defendants — reed mapes, tjet martin, John metz, patty Shay and Bill and rose Vincent — to each pay fines of $500 and admit they violated florida’s governmentin-the-Sunshine Law. the offer also requires the defendants produce additional records that were requested by the city but not Perry provided. But the defendants responded march 8 with an “offer to compromise,” that would eliminate any admission of guilt, provides no fine and no further records. The defendants’ offer stipulates that the parties would be responsible for their own legal fees. the compromise also provides for a $10,000 donation from the defendants to the annie Silver community center, 103 23rd St. n., Bradenton Beach, and suggests — but does not require — the city do the same. the deadline for the city to respond to the compromise is march 15, three days prior to the city’s deadline. city attorney ricinda perry said march 7 that starting with her march 20 deposition, considerable costs will be added to the suit, which has cost taxpayers $168,294 as of march 7. “We’re probably facing close to $10,000 just for that day,” she said of her deposition. perry also said some records requested by the defendants were allegedly destroyed or not provided, and that the defendants filed several motions march 6 and march 7 to block the requests. the defendants’ compromise states that further production of records would “open the possibility of an endless dispute over this issue and is counter to everyone’s primary goal to end all disputes among the parties. the defendants have provided all public records in their possession and this issue is not part of the lawsuit.” the defense’s primary legal stance for the case disputes the claims that four of the defendants, who met as members of the concerned neighbors of Bra-

denton Beach grass-roots group and discussed citizen’s petitions to amend the charter, but the subjects were never brought before the planning and zoning board, of which mapes, metz, Shay and Bill Vincent were Mapes members. also, the defendants can ask the city and clarke to pay their costs if they win, a claim that was made in the pleadings. tjet martin said march 8 that on Jan. 9, during his deposition, clarke, who accused rose Vincent and martin Martin of ex parte communications, stated he could not distinguish rose Vincent from carol Harrington at the time he made his claim. martin said rose Vincent was not at the meeting where she was accused of violating the Sunshine Metz Law. instead, Harrington, who did not belong to a board or any other city committee, was present. Martin asks now, why didn’t Clarke tell his attorneys he erred in his accusation? Shay “it’s just one of my reasons for not agreeing to the city’s terms,” martin said. additionally, the defendants claim there may be problems with the Sunshine Law as it pertains to the first amendment, based on a texas court Vincent ruling. the texas Supreme court ruled feb. 27 in State of texas v. craig doyal, a similar matter involving open meetings laws. the ruling in favor of the defendant was on the basis that “more clarity is required of a criminal law when that law implicates first amendment freedoms.” in the cover letter with the defendants’ offer, submitted by metz’s attorney, thomas Shults of Sarasota, wrote, “compromise by both sides is necessary, with everyone respecting each other’s dignity and recognizing the need to begin healing the deep wounds caused to not only the parties, but also the community, by this lawsuit.”

Meetings

WMFR administration building, 6417 Third Ave. Anna Maria City W., Bradenton, wmfr.org. march 14, 6 p.m., city commission. march 20, 5:30 p.m., special magistrate. Manatee County march 28, 6 p.m., city commission. march 14, 9 a.m., commission (land use). april 9, 4 p.m.,, planning and zoning. march 26, 9 a.m., commission. april 11, 6p.m., commission. april 4, 9 a.m., commission (land use). Anna Maria City Hall, 10005 Gulf Drive, 941april 9, 9 a.m., commission. canceLed 708-6130, cityofannamaria.com. april 23, 9 a.m., commission. Administration building, 1112 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton Beach Bradenton, 941-748-4501, mymanatee.org. march 14, 1 p.m., department heads. march 20, 1 p.m., planning and zoning. Of interest march 21, noon, commission. march 19, 2 p.m., Barrier island elected offimarch 26, 10 a.m., commission. cials, Bradenton Beach city Hall. Bradenton Beach City Hall, 107 Gulf Drive N., march 25, 9:30 a.m., Sarasota/manatee metro941-778-1005, cityofbradentonbeach.org. politan planning organization, Holiday inn Sarasota Bradenton international airport, 8009 15th St. e., Holmes Beach Sarasota. march 13, 6 p.m., town hall mobility and vehiapril 2, manatee county council of governcles. ments, 4 p.m., Bradenton area convention center, march 14, 10 a.m., charter review. 1 Haben Blvd., palmetto. march 20, 11 a.m., special magistrate. april 15, 9 a.m., manatee county tourist develmarch 21, 10 a.m., charter review. opment council, center of anna maria island, 407 march 26, 6 p.m., city commission. magnolia ave., anna maria. march 28, 10 a.m., charter review. april 19, most government offices closed for Holmes Beach City Hall, 5801 Marina Drive, good friday. 941-708-5800, holmesbeachfl.org. West Manatee Fire Rescue march 19, 6 p.m., commission.

Send notices to calendar@islander.org and news@islander.org.

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THE ISLANDER n MARcH 13, 2019 n 5

treehOUse continued from page 1 prior rulings into the 2018 case and a hearing on the merits of enforcement case at 9:30 a.m. June 3.

Richard Hazen and Lynn Tran, the treehouse owners, and Jim Dye, attorney for the city of Holmes Beach, prepare to face off March 4 in a Manatee County courtroom. The couple is continuing to fight the city and prevent the treehouse they built without permits in an Australian pine from being demolished. Islander Photos: Kathy Prucnell

In the courts dye contends many of the owners’ arguments in the pending cases are no longer valid, having previously been ruled upon in favor of the city. pending still are a city action filed in february 2018 to enforce a magistrate’s decision with $50 daily fines, accumulated to $70,000, and the tran-Hazen 2013 argument that the city’s 50-foot setback is unconstitutional. the city’s overarching disagreement is that the treehouse was built in violation of the city building code and inside the beachfront setback — a major reason to decline an after-the-fact permit. the owners have maintained that state law, which allows a more flexible setback, overrides local law.

Second batch of clams seeded

A second batch of clams purchased by the Bradenton Beach Community Redevelopment Agency line the dock at the South Coquina Boat Ramp March 9 ready to be loaded onto a boat for seeding in Sarasota Bay near the Historic Bridge Street Pier. Purchased for for $36,000, the 200,000 clams, which each filter several gallons of water a day, are the first phase in the CRA’s plans for a living shoreline, complete with oysters and reef balls. Islander Photos: Ryan Paice

Rusty Chinnis from Sarasota Bay Watch and his crew, along with state Rep. William Robinson Jr., R-Bradenton, top right, and Bradenton Beach Commissioner Ralph Cole, right, drop clams into the bay near the Historic Bridge Street Pier March 9.

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6 n MARcH 13, 2019 n THE ISLANDER

Opinion

Our

Time to show green

We’re rolling up on the greenest of holidays at the end of this week, St. patrick’s day. and St. paddy’s day on anna maria island is a fun time no matter where you come from or where you’re going. there’s the Beach Bistro parade on Sunday afternoon, but leading up to that, there will be restaurants and bars up and down the island celebrating the irish spirit and culture. the corned beef and cabbage will be plentiful, the guinness will flow— along with plenty of other irish beer and favorite foods. How about a Harp Lager or a Jameson and coffee? i will be preparing an old corned beef recipe, learned from chef Justin Wilson on his Louisiana cooking show on tV in the 1970s. Basically, there’s all the usual ingredients but no water in the pot — just sauterne or whatever dessert wine you can find. it doesn’t taste like alcohol, but it “shore tastes good.” imagine the irish cooking cajun! mmmmm good. Cheers to all the Irish and wannabe Irish and to a great St. patrick’s day for all. and now for another matter. Last week i attended a lovely brunch at the Bradenton Yacht club hosted by Suncoast Waterkeeper to hear Larry Brand, a scientist and researcher, talk about red tide and blue-green algae. it was enlightening. i learned much. and it was disappointing. dr. Brand managed to change my taste for seafood. and i must apologize for not keeping up on the facts about red tide. i was convinced K. brevis was the result of nature. and i believed it to be colorless. While it is indeed colorless, when the red tide bloom exceeds normal (natural) levels and rises near the surface, photosynthesis causes it to appear reddishbrown in color. and while it exists everywhere in nature, it is fueled by nutrients that humans and development pour into the water. furthermore, when red tide numbers reach 50,000100,000 cells per liter and fish mortality occurs, the toxin in fish, shrimp and crab that survive the red tide increases and remains for several months. i plan to be more cautious about the source of my seafood. apparently, i sipped some of the Kool-aid dispensed by lobbyists, mote, Start and big sugar. it pays to be cautious, of course, but we’ve been clear of a major bloom for many months now. meanwhile, i’ll be eating crow. — Bonner Joy

Opinion

Your

For docked bikes

Holmes Beach is holding a meeting to discuss “docked and dockless” bike rental systems. As a resident who had been a longtime visitor to the island, i feel the proposed bicycle system would be useful to many people without detracting from the island’s quaintness. it would fill a niche need for people going from point A to point B or using bikes for short rides throughout the day. the system also could encourage people to come to the island on a Manatee County Area Transit bus, and then using these bikes to get around. the service would provide flexible transportation options, reduce traffic, increase the use of the trolley and alleviate parking concerns. my hope is commissioners and residents support the idea and embrace this small positive change. the island is spending money maintaining the bike paths, let’s use them. Debbie Hall, Holmes Beach

MARCH 13, 2019 • Vol. 27, No. 20 ▼ ▼

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Publisher and Editor Bonner Joy, news@islander.org Editorial Lisa Neff, copy editor, lisa@islander.org Sandy Ambrogi, sandy@islander.org Joe Bird, editorial cartoonist Kevin Cassidy, kevin@islander.org Jack Elka, jack@jackelka.com ChrisAnn Silver Esformes, chrisann@islander.org Ryan Paice, ryan@islander.org Kathy Prucnell, kathyp@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 Vicki McIntyre accounting@islander.org classifieds@islander.org subscriptions@islander.org Distribution Urbane Bouchet Judy Loden Wasco Ross Roberts (All others: news@islander.org)

Single copies free. Quantities of ﬁve or more: 25 cents each. ©1992-2019 • Editorial, sales and production offices: 3218 E. Bay Drive, Holmes Beach FL 34217 WEBSITE: www.islander.org PHONE 941-778-7978 toll-free fax 1-866-362-9821

How deep is this hole on the beach? Islander Photo: Courtesy Patricia Horne

Not happy about holes

each evening, my friend and i walk the beach and collect trash left behind by inconsiderate visitors. We also find numerous deep holes, which can be dangerous to wildlife and people. these holes are not the work of children at play with buckets and spades. With turtle season starting in may, i’m appealing to your newspaper to highlight this problem and to appeal to visitors to please leave our beautiful beaches as they find them, free of trash and holes. Patricia Horne, Holmes Beach

Too little trash

thanks to the mayor and commissioners of anna maria for getting bids from several companies for waste collection. as a resident, i would to request a way for households of one to have once a week pick-up instead of twice a week. the can could be identified by color or a colored tag. Many residents are retired and a lowering of their bills would help. at least one would have a choice. Carole Lynn Marler, Anna Maria

THE ISLANDER n MARcH 13, 2019 n 7

Fly over

An aerial view from 1971 shows the Holmes Beach Marina and Pete Reynard’s Yacht Club Restaurant and, near the top, part of the runway at the Holmes Beach airport. Marina Drive is on the left. Islander Photo: Courtesy Manatee County Public Library Digital Collection

10&20 years ago

In the headlines: March 10, 1999

Holmes Beach voters elected pat geyer, don maloney and rich Bohnenberger to the city commission. incumbent Luke courtney lost his reelection bid by 12 votes. the first manatee county homicide of the year was reported at a homeless camp in cortez. Lance ritchison was involved in an alcohol-fueled argument with Lonnie pool when ritchison fired a shotgun and killed poole. the u.S. postal Service announced plans to move its anna maria facility from 9908 gulf drive to Bayview plaza at the corner of pine avenue and South Bay Boulevard. a spokesman said the gulf drive space was not adequate. A plane takes off from the Holmes Beach runway over Watson’s Bayou — where now the view includes the Island Library, Keyes Marina and Waterline Resort. Islander Courtesy Photo

We’d love to mail you the news!

In the headlines: March 11, 2009

manatee county commissioners unanimously approved a proposal from their natural resources director to replace the existing pier at manatee public Beach with a new pier that would be 7.5 feet higher. the old pier was torn down but a new pier was never built. five students at anna maria elementary were issued 10-day suspensions and were not allowed to return to the school for an incident involving marijuana. Bradenton Beach announced plans to promote conservation with eco Week, to be held at city hall. plans included a green marketplace.

Find the archives The weekly archives for The Islander are online at ufdc.ufl.edu. Some archived stories also are online at islander.org.

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Holmes Beach golf cart limits confuse, anger drivers

By ChrisAnn Silver Esformes Islander Reporter People have strong feelings about golf carts in Holmes Beach. However, what they consider a golf cart may be a street-legal low-speed vehicle. It seems “golf cart” has become a generic term for the fun, small, electric-powered vehicles that formerly found use only at the golf course. Holmes Beach commissioners voted Feb. 26 to approve on first reading an amended ordinance requiring seat belts and age-appropriate child restraint devices — such as car seats — for golf carts. Also, golf carts are prohibited on roads with a speed limit higher than 25 mph, including East Bay, Gulf, Marina and Palm drives and Manatee Avenue. The speed limit requirement remains the same as the current ordinance, but the new wording in the proposed ordinance removes specific streets by name. Currently, golf carts — as defined by the state and not to be confused with LSVs — are restricted by state law from roads with speed limits of 35 mph or higher. LSVs can operate on any city road on Anna Maria Island. They require a title, registration, insurance and are equipped by the manufacturer with seat belts. Both golf carts and LSVs must be operated by a licensed driver. “Nothing has changed for LSVs,” Police Chief Bill Tokajer said March 7. “LSVs are street-legal golf carts. And that includes all the rentals and most of what you see now on the road.” Residents and visitors have responded to the city commission’s decision with comments on social media

Eric Irons, manager at AMI Beach Fun Rentals at the Anna Maria Island Centre shopping plaza in Holmes Beach, poses March 8 with two low-speed vehicles available for rent at his shop. Both are street legal — allowed on all island roads. Islander Photo: Ryan Paice

both for and against an updated ordinance, with some people threatening to halt vacations on the island or sell their property and move if the ordinance passes. Other people posted comments on The Islander website and social media that golf carts loaded with kids on the main road are a safety concern. Eric Irons, a manager at AMI Beach Fun Rentals, said he tries to inform customers that what people rent at his shop and call a golf cart is an LSV, and is fully compliant with state and local laws. “I let them know that all our golf carts are street legal,” Irons said. “They all have license plates, they’re registered and have seat belts, mirrors and head-

lights.” Commissioner Carol Soustek said she was driving behind a golf cart when the driver took a turn too fast and a child tumbled out. The incident contributed to her concerns about golf carts and public safety. “He wasn’t hurt badly, but it is still scary and could’ve been worse,” Soustek said. “That is why we want safety measures for golf carts.” Holmes Beach is the only city on the island that allows golf carts its roads. The final hearing for the ordinance and vote will be held at the city commission meeting at 6 p.m. Tuesday, March 26, at city hall, 5801 Marina Drive.

BB pier’s floating dock comes together — in Gibsonton

By Ryan Paice Islander Reporter The two-year wait for Bradenton Beach’s floating dock soon may be over. Floats for the dock — the last missing parts — were delivered March 4 to Hecker Construction’s laydown yard in Gibsonton, where parts will be assembled before delivery to Bradenton Beach. Eric Shaffer, a project manager for Hecker, wrote in a March 5 email to Bradenton Beach Police Chief Sam Speciale that assembly would begin by the week of March 11, after an inventory of the components. Hecker was originally sub-contracted by Technomarine to deliver and install the dock at the pier and, as a result, the metal ramps and dock, purchased and shipped from Spain, were delivered to Hecker’s laydown yard. As conflicts developed between the city and Technomarine, the city opted to use Hecker to install the dock at the Historic Bridge Street Pier. Two obstacles stand in the way of the dock’s installation: pilings and permitting. Technomarine — now eliminated by default from the project — specified the use of concrete pilings for the dock. Speciale, who leads the city’s effort to replace the

The floats for Bradenton Beach’s dock for the Historic Bridge Street Pier sit March 5 at Hecker Construction’s laydown yard in Gibsonton. The floats, the final parts of the dock to arrive in Gibsonton, will be assembled with the dock before transport to the pier. Islander Photo: Courtesy Eric Shaffer old dock, which suffered repetitive storm damage, told the Bradenton Beach Community Redevelopment Agency members at their March 6 meeting that Hecker would use wood pilings with poly wrap, due to the

difficulty and cost of driving concrete pilings. Speciale said getting a permit for the dock was taking more time than anticipated because Technomarine had changed the number of pilings detailed in its documents to the city, but the permitting process should go quickly when the new engineering specifications for the pilings are provided. Speciale said he also was seeking permits from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection for a police boatlift for the pier, as well as modified finger docks to attach to the pier. The DEP initially asked for a permit for each item, but recently combined the permitting process for the lift and finger docks, according to Speciale, who was to meet with DEP officials March 11 to discuss the plans. CRA members will discuss issuing a request for proposals for a contractor to build and install the finger docks at their meeting at 9:30 a.m. Wednesday, April 3, at city hall, 107 Gulf Drive N.

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DOT installs bat ‘escape’ routes before starting work on LBK-BB bridge By Lisa Neff Islander Reporter The Florida Department of Transportation has installed escape routes for bats residing under the Longboat Pass Bridge. In bridge surveys, inspectors for the DOT observed several hundred to perhaps thousands of bats roosting in the expansion joints under the drawbridge, which is due for a major overhaul in 2019. DOT spokesman Brian Rick said bats are common at bridges, dams and other structures throughout much of the United States. But the DOT can’t have them coming and going during its bridge repair project, which is scheduled to begin in May and continue through November. So escape tubes were installed on the bridge connecting Bradenton Beach and Longboat Key. “Fabric-type netting is not being used for the project as it is prone to coming loose in higher winds and possibly entangling bats,” according to Rick, who said

the plastic tubes will allow the bats to exit the expansion joints but not re-enter. Now the DOT is inspecting the joints every fourseven days. “Once all of the bats have exited the expansion joint, the joint is sealed with wire mesh and foam,” Rick said. Most of the bats, if not all, observed at the bridge are free-tailed bats, according to the DOT. It is one of the most common bats in North America. “The purpose of the exclusion project is to safely exclude the bats from the bridge prior to the start of bridge repair work,” Rick said. He added, “It is important to conduct the exclusion at this time of year, before the bats begin giving birth, so that no young are trapped in the bridge.” Also, the DOT confirmed the contractor for the repair work — not yet selected — would meet environmental requirements, including shielding lights during the season for nesting sea turtles, which begins

The type of bat observed at the Longboat Pass Bridge is a free-tailed bat, one of the most common bats in North America. Islander Photo: Wikipedia/Public Domain in May. Work on the 1957 drawbridge will include repairs to the concrete approach, the bascule steel and fender system, rebalancing the bascule span, cleaning and painting the steel, installing new traffic signals and reconditioning mechanical and electrical systems.

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Island happenings Supper served at Annie Silver

Linda Yarger, left, president of Annie Silver Community Center, serves up chicken Feb. 7, as Dennis Hoover waits to add mashed potatoes to the dinner box. The community center welcomes guests to the community dinner monthly during the winter season. The next meal — and the last of the season — will be a fish fry Friday, March 15. Islander Photo: Sandy Ambrogi

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Annie Silver Community Center hosts fish fry

941-778-2711 “Anna Maria Island,” a pictorial history book of the island by Bonner Joy, is available for $20 at The Islander office, 3218 E. Bay Drive, Holmes Beach. Joy is publisher of The Islander newspaper. She launched the newspaper in 1992, and is a 44-year islander.

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‘Oldies’ dance party set

Supporters of the anna maria island concert chorus and orchestra can twist the afternoon away at the Sandbar restaurant. Members of the Annie Silver Community amicco is presenting an oldies beach dance center, 103 23rd St. n., Bradenton Beach, are party 3-5 p.m. tuesday, march 19, in the pavilion at preparing to dish up the final community dinner the restaurant, 100 Spring ave., anna maria. of the winter season. proceeds from the event will benefit amicco, the center will host a fish fry 5-7 p.m. friday, which performs a series of concerts in the wintermarch 15. the cost is $8. spring season. the menu includes fish, macaroni and cheese, music will be by the gulf drive duo — featuring coleslaw, hush puppies, beverages and dessert. Bil Bowdish and Karen Jones — and also Koko ray Karen Bell of a.p. Bell fish co. in cortez will Hansen. donate the fish, which will be prepared by John an announcement said the band will perform Swager of Big John’s texas BBQ. music popularized in the 1950s and ’60s, as well as for more information, call Linda Yarger at swing, jazz, country and popular music. 941-778-3580. advance tickets are $10 at the anna maria island chamber of commerce office, 5313 gulf drive, Island Dems to meet Holmes Beach, as well as online at www.amicco.org. if available, tickets at the door will be $15. the anna maria island democratic club will hold the Sandbar will provide refreshments. its monthly meeting at 11:15 a.m. monday, march 18, at the img clubhouse, 4350 el conquistador parkway, Kiwanis to host program Bradenton. The Kiwanis Club of Anna Maria Island will meet The guest speaker will be Samantha Kolb, the director of the addiction center at centerstone, a Saturday, march 16, for breakfast and to hear from pam nonprofit behavioral health organization. Kolb has giordano of care net manasota pregnancy center. the club meets at 8:30 a.m. most Saturdays at the implemented several programs to combat the opioid anna maria island Beach cafe at the manatee public epidemic. a buffet lunch will be served. the cost is $17 for Beach, 4000 gulf drive, Holmes Beach. for more information, call Sandy Haas-martens members and $20 for nonmembers. for more information, call Harry Kamberis at 941- at 941-778-1383. 779-0564.

Adventures group to attend concert, brunch

the Senior adventures will attend a vocal duet in concert at Sunnyside Village in Sarasota friday, march 15. they also will have breakfast at Sunnyside. the group will depart at 9 a.m. from the annie Silver community center, 103 23rd St. n., Bradenton Beach. reservations are required and the concert and breakfast will cost $2. for more information, call Kaye Bell at 941-5380945.

Studio hosts ‘Transparency’ reception

the Studio at gulf and pine will host a reception for the florida Watercolor Society’s “transparency” artists and their exhibit, which will be judged by artist and teacher John Bayalis. the reception will be 6-8 p.m. thursday, march 14, and attendees will be asked to vote on the “people’s choice” award. the exhibit will continue through april 6. the Studio is at 10101 gulf drive, anna maria. for more information, call the studio at 941-7781906. Watercolorist Kerry Waltz’s “Glimmer” is an example of the work shown in the Florida Watercolor Society’s “Transparent” exhibit through April 6 at the Studio at Gulf and Pine, 10101 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria. Islander Courtesy Photo

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Island happenings

THE ISLANDER n MARcH 13, 2019 n 11

Distribution center

Artists’ Guild of Anna Maria Island member Donna Grossman shows a table cleared of donated art supplies Feb. 19 at the Manatee Arts Education meeting. AGAMI members collected hundreds of supplies for local students and distributed them to teachers. Islander Photo: Courtesy Wendell Graham

Island to celebrate St. Pat’s with parade

St. Patrick’s Day is celebrated with a parade last March. This year, the Beach Bistro parade will be at 4 p.m. Sunday, March 17, with the lineup beginning at 2 p.m. at Marina and Gulf drives in Holmes Beach. Islander File Photo

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Years ago, Sean Murphy loaded up his kids and neighborhood friends into an old green lawn trailer and, carrying a parade permit and blasting music from a boom box, drove down the middle of gulf drive to the amusement and consternation of bystanders. this was the first annual anna maria island St. patrick’s day parade, according to murphy, the owner of three Holmes Beach establishments — Beach Bistro, eat Here and the doctor’s office. a few years later, the parade had grown to include bands and floats and to attract thousands of paradegoers. This year, Murphy and the bistro again present the parade, which will begin at 4 p.m. Sunday, march 17. the parade will assemble in the eat Here parking lot at marina and gulf drives, starting at about 2 p.m. the parade will travel north on marina and palm drives, ending at 78th Street. murphy invited everyone to “get with the St. pat spirit” and join the bagpipers, pirates, marching bands and community groups. the parade will be led by Holmes Beach mayor Judy titsworth and WWii veteran Bob Schweiger. for more information, call the Beach Bistro at 941778-6444.

Callers lead Irish dancers in waltz

Breaking from the traditional dances, callers Ann and Bill Walsh lead the AMI Irish dancers in a waltz. Dancing takes place1:30-3:30 p.m. Wednesdays at the Sandpiper Resort Co-op clubhouse, 2601 Gulf Drive N., Bradenton Beach. Islander Photo: Kathy Prucnell

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Saturday Art Demo

Joanna Karpay will demonstrate her oil painting techniques on Saturday, March 16, 10:30 to 12. The public is invited to this free event. Come early for a seat.

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The Islander Calendar ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Winning card

David Bibb, left, collects his winnings from card checker Susan Luzier Jan. 17 at Annie Silver Community Center bingo. Games take place at 7 p.m. Thursdays. Islander Photo: Sandy Ambrogi

ON ANNA MARIA ISLAND Thursday, March 14 6-8 p.m. — Florida Watercolor Society reception for “Transparent,” the Studio at Gulf and Pine, 10101 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria. Information: 941-778-1906. Saturday, March 16 10:30 a.m. — Joanna Karpay demonstrates oil-painting technique, Island Gallery West artist demonstrations, 5368 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6648. Tuesday, March 19 3 p.m. — Oldies Beach Dance to beneﬁt the Anna Maria Island Concert Chorus and Orchestra, Sandbar Restaurant, 100 Spring Ave., Anna Maria. Fee applies. Information: 941-795-2370. ONGOING ON AMI Through March 24, Island Players present “A Flea in Her Ear,” 10009 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria. Fee applies. Information: 941-7785755. Throughout March, Gwen Kodad exhibits work at the Artists’ Guild of Anna Maria Island gallery, 5414 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6694. Throughout March, Sue Bokos exhibits “Small Wonders,” Island Gallery West, 5368 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-7786648. Through April 6, Florida Suncoast Watercolor Society “Transparent” exhibit, the Studio at Gulf and Pine, 10101 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria. Information: 941-778-1906. LOOKING AHEAD ON AMI March 21, BJ Thomas in concert, with the Billy Rice Band, Anna Maria. April 13, Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce Beach n’ Food Truck and Music Festival, Bradenton Beach.

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LOOKING AHEAD OFF AMI March 31, AMICCO’s “Diva Wars” concert, Bradenton.

KIDS & FAMILY ON ANNA MARIA ISLAND Sunday, March 17 4 p.m. — Beach Bistro St. Patrick’s Day Parade, Marina and Palm drives in Holmes Beach, with assembly beginning at 2 p.m. at Eat Here, 5315 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-7786444. Tuesday, March 19 10 a.m. — Preschool storytime, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341. ONGOING OFF AMI

First Saturdays, Family Night at the Museum, South Florida Museum, 201 10th St. W., Bradenton. Fee applies. Information: ONGOING OFF ANNA MARIA ISLAND 941-746-4131. Fourth Wednesdays, “Stelliferous Live” star talk, South Florida Fridays in March, 6-8 p.m., Music in the Park, Riverwalk Mosaic Museum, 201 10th St. W., Bradenton. Fee applies. Information: Amphitheater, 606 Third Ave. W., Bradenton. Information: 941-621941-746-4131. 6471. Through March, “An Art Exposition” featuring art work by Cheryl GAMES, SPORTS & Jorgensen and Joan McArthur, Dancing Crane Gallery, 1019 10th OUTDOORS Ave. W., Bradenton. Information: 941-744-1333. ONGOING ON ANNA MARIA ISLAND Second Wednesdays, Think + Drink (science), South Florida Museum, 201 10th St. W., Bradenton. Fee applies. Information: Mondays, AMI Dragon Boat Fun and Fitness Club, time 941-746-4131. depends on tides, 417 63rd St., Holmes Beach. Information: 941Wednesdays, 2-4 p.m., Shanty Singers, Florida Maritime 462-2626. Museum, 4415 119th St. W., Cortez. Information: 941-708-6120. Wednesdays and Saturdays, 9 a.m., horseshoes pitched, Anna First Fridays, 6-9 p.m. ArtWalk in the Village of the Arts, around Maria City Hall, 10005 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria. Information: 941-70812th Street West and 12th Avenue West, Bradenton. Also, Saturdays 6130. after the ﬁrst Fridays. Information: villageofthearts@gmail.com. Thursdays, through March 28, bingo, Annie Silver Community Second Saturdays, 2-4 p.m., Music on the Porch, Florida Mari- Center, 103 23rd St. N., Bradenton Beach. Information: 941-778time Museum, 4415 119th St. W., Cortez. Information: 941-708- 3580. 6120. Most Fridays, 11:30 a.m. or 1 p.m. (call for times) mahjong Through Dec. 31, “Always Ready” U.S. Coast Guard exhibit, games, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. InformaFlorida Maritime Museum, 4415 119th St. W., Cortez. Information: tion: 941-778-6341. 941-708-6120. Mondays, noon, bridge, Roser Memorial Community Church,

Island garden club presents flower show

The Anna Maria Island Garden Club’s annual flower show will be 1-3 p.m. Wednesday, march 20. The event will be in the fellowship hall at roser memorial community church, 512 pine ave., anna maria. the theme of the show will be “Let’s go to the movies.” also, the club will sell baked goods. each year, the club promotes the flower show with a poster contest conducted among anna maria elementary students. ame fifth-grade student gabrella gilbert won first place; Hamish robertson, second place; and Hayden dolan, third place. the club will hold its fashion show at noon Wednesday, april 17, at roser church. the show and luncheon will cost $20 to attend. for more information, call charlotte noyes at 941-778-6758.

Tuesdays, noon, duplicate bridge, Episcopal Church of the Annunciation, 4408 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941779-0881. ONGOING OFF AMI Saturdays in March, 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m., Valentine House open house, Robinson Preserve, 1704 99th St. NW, Bradenton. Information: 941-742-5923, ext. 6035. Through March 23, Pittsburgh Pirates spring training home games, LECOM Park, 1611 Ninth St. W., Bradenton. Fee applies. Information: 941-747-3031. LOOKING AHEAD OFF AMI April 27, Sarasota Bay Seagrass Survey and Seagrass Festival, Sarasota.

CLUBS & COMMUNITY ON ANNA MARIA ISLAND Wednesday, March 13 Noon — Coloring Club, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341. 4:30 p.m. — Island Time Book Club, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341. Thursday, March 14 6 p.m. — Florida Maritime Museum fundraiser, dinner and author talk by historian Jack E. Davis, Seafood Shack, 4110 127th St. W., Cortez. Fee applies. Information: 941-708-6120. Friday, March 15 9 a.m. — Senior Adventures depart for a concert and breakfast in Sarasota from the Annie Silver Community Center, 103 23rd St. N., Bradenton Beach. Information: 941-538-0945. 5-7 p.m. — Annie Silver Community Center ﬁsh fry, 103 23rd St. N., Bradenton Beach. Fee applies. Information: 941-778-3580. Saturday, March 16 10 a.m.-3 p.m. — Center of Anna Maria Island Tour of Homes, various locations in Anna Maria and Holmes Beach. Fee applies. Information: 941-778-1908. 11 a.m. — Meditation session, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341. Wednesday, March 20 1-3 p.m. — Penny Flower Show, Anna Maria Island Garden Club, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Information: 941-778-6758. 1 p.m. — Lifelong Learning program, “Why Ancient History Matters,” Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341. 2 p.m. — Downloading audiobooks lesson, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341. ONGOING ON AMI

Wednesdays throughout March, Anna Maria Island Historical Society sales of settlers bread, AMIHS museum, 402 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Information: 941-778-0492. Wednesdays throughout March, 1:30 p.m. Anna Maria Island Irish Ceili and Set Dancing, Sandpiper Mobile Resort house, 2601 Gulf Drive N., Bradenton Beach. Information: 941-779-1416. Thursdays, 9-11 a.m., veterans services assistance, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Info: 941-778-6341. 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Information: 941-778-0414. Third Thursdays, 11:45 a.m., Successful Women Aligning Most Tuesdays, 11:30 a.m., mahjong games and instruction Together meets, Bridge Street Bistro, 111 Gulf Drive S., Bradenton for beginners, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Beach. Fee applies. Information: 941-345-5135. Information: 941-778-6341.

Flower power

Anna Maria Elementary fifth-grader Gabrella Gilbert, right, displays the first-place poster promoting the Anna Maria Island Garden Club’s upcoming flower show. Hamish Robertson, middle, shows the poster that won second place in the poster contest. And Hayden Dolan, left, shows the poster that won third place. The flower show will be 1-3 p.m. Wednesday, March 20, at Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Islander Courtesy Photo

The Islander Calendar Fridays, Senior Adventures usually meets to carpool on an adventure or for an activity, Annie Silver Community Center, 103 23rd St. N., Bradenton Beach. Information: 941-538-0945. Second Fridays, 6 p.m., AMI Resident Community Connections, Center of Anna Maria Island, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria. Information: 941-778-1908. Saturdays, 8:30 a.m., Kiwanis Club of Anna Maria Island breakfast meeting, Anna Maria Island Beach Cafe, Manatee Public Beach, 4000 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-1383. Tuesdays through May 14, 8:30 a.m.-2 p.m., Anna Maria Farmers Market, City Pier Park, North Bay Boulevard and Pine Avenue. Information: 941-708-6130. Tuesdays, noon, Rotary Club of Anna Maria Island, Bridge Street Bistro, 111 Gulf Drive S., Bradenton Beach. Information: 941718-0291. Tuesdays, 2-4 p.m., Tech Help, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341. LOOKING AHEAD ON AMI

Thursday, March 14 10 a.m.-2 p.m. — Cortez Cultural Center meet the authors heritage day event, 11655 Cortez Road, Cortez. Information: 941538-0945. Saturday, March 16 8 a.m.-3 p.m. — Palma Sola Botanical Park plant sale, 9800 17th Ave. NW, Bradenton. Information: 941-761-2866. 2 p.m. — Cortez Cultural Center historical recollections with Mary Green as Sally Adams Fulford, 11655 Cortez Road, Cortez. Information: 941-538-0945. 5 p.m. — Cortez Cultural Center St. Patrick’s Day potluck dinner, 11655 Cortez Road, Cortez. Information: 941-538-0945. Tuesday, March 18 11:15 a.m. — Anna Maria Island Democratic Club, IMG Academy, 4350 El Conquistador Parkway, Bradenton. Fee applies. Information: 941-779-0564. ONGOING OFF AMI

Fridays, 10:30 a.m., Paradise Cafe games, music and socialApril 11, Center of Anna Maria Island Passion for Fashion izing, the Paradise Center, Temple Beth Israel, 567 Bay Isles Road, Show, Anna Maria. Longboat Key. Fee applies. Information: 941-383-6493. April 17, Anna Maria Island Garden Club fashion show, Anna Saturdays through May, 9 a.m.-2 p.m., Bradenton Farmers Maria. Market, Old Main, Bradenton. Information: 941-621-6471. May 4, A Night of Warhol/AME spring gala, Holmes Beach.

GOOD TO KNOW

OFF AMI Wednesday, March 13 Noon — Off Stage Ladies of the Island Players luncheon and program, IMG Academy, 4350 El Conquistador Parkway, Bradenton. Fee applies. Information: 941-567-4960.

SAVE THE DATES

THE ISLANDER n MARcH 13, 2019 n 13

Play bridge?

Duplicate bridge setups line a table Feb. 12 at the Episcopal Church of the Annunciation, 4408 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. Bridge is played Tuesdays at noon during season in the church fellowship hall. Islander Photo: Sandy Ambrogi April 22, Earth Day. April 26, National Arbor Day. May 5, Cinco de Mayo. May 12, Mother’s Day.

GET LISTED Send announcements for The Islander calendar to calendar@ islander.org. The deadline for listings is the Wednesday before the publication date. Please include the date, time, location and description of the event, as well as a phone number for publication.

March 17, St. Patrick’s Day. March 20, spring begins. April 1, April Fools’ Day.

IGW blooms for art walk

Movie season reaches finale in Anna Maria

By ryan paice The Islander the city-sponsored march 6 screening of “first Kid” in city pier park was the final showing for movies in the park — but it was canceled due to weather. mayor dan murphy said march 8 the movie season was planned to end before march 10, when clocks were set forward an hour for daylight saving time. He said that after the time change, movies would end too late into the night, which wouldn’t work for the family-friendly event in the park at the corner of pine avenue and north Bay Boulevard. Stephanie Janney, an administrative assistant at city hall, said march 5 that staff had yet to discuss the future of movies in the park. She did not know if there would be any further installments. movies in the park drew dozens of people to the posed to draw traffic to pine avenue after the Historic anna maria city pier closed due to storm damage in park since beginning dec. 5, 2018, with “elf.” the city-sponsored events at city pier park began September 2017. the absence of movies in the park leaves the park with a tuesday farmers market, which murphy promore available to other hosts seeking to hold events. people interested in an event in the city must apply

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Sue Boko shows off her delicate floral and bird photos as the featured exhibit for March, “Small Wonders,” at Island Gallery West during the March 8 ArtWalk. Bokos, who began her passion for photography in 1982, is the featured artist for the March. For more information, call IGW at 941-778-6648 or visit the gallery at 6648 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. Islander Photo: Bonner Joy

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14 n MARcH 13, 2019 n THE ISLANDER

Community radio hopes to broadcast to Cortez

By Kathy prucnell Islander Reporter community radio emphasizes local voices and experiences. organizers of one such station hope to regroup after losing the ability to transmit from the former aceâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Lounge location, 9393 palma Sola Blvd., Bradenton, and, at a march 4 board meeting, requested space from the florida institute for Saltwater Heritage for a 40-foot antenna and a radio equipment rack. david Beaton, a manager with WBpV at 100.1 fm, asked the board to provide space in a fiSH building to allow the low-powered station to resume coverage to cortez, anna maria island and Longboat Key. the low-power station transmitted from aceâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Lounge for several years before the business closed and the building was demolished in 2018. in cortez, fiSH owns several buildings, including the boatworks building discussed by Beaton and fiSH board members as a possible location. â&#x20AC;&#x153;itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a great service to the community. in an emergency, community radio tends to stay on the air,â&#x20AC;? Beaton said, adding the station will be connected to the federal emergency alert System. Broadcasts during Hurricane irma, he said, had him sleeping at a partner station, WSLr, 96.5 fm, in Sarasotaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s rosemary district, four nights during the storm. WSLr programming will be shared with WBpV, 101.1 fm, Beaton said. Holding the 100.1 fm fcc license is the nonprofit peace education and action center. Beaton introduced Bob connors of Bradenton Beach, a director of the nonprofit and former Bradenton Beach city commissioner, who, with tom Walker,

David Beaton, on behalf of WBPV, an off-air, lowpower radio station at 100.1 FM, asks the Florida Institute for Saltwater Heritageâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s board of directors March 4 for permission to place a 40-foot antenna and equipment on FISH property to serve a 5-7 mile radius around Cortez. Islander Photo: Kathy Prucnell hosts the peace and Justice report. Beaton told the board it would pay fiSH for electricity and internet service as well as $50 for monthly rent. He also presented a proposal for a second phase, involving the construction of a concrete base and a 100-foot retractable tower to allow more coverage. Before WBpV aligned with aceâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, the station approached fiSH with similar proposals. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Why would you want to do this?â&#x20AC;? Beaton asked the fiSH board. He answered his question, emphasizing the relationship could lead to broadcasts about fiSH events,

such as the annual cortez commercial fishing festival, an open microphone for local community leaders and emergencies. Some 85 volunteers, including on-air guests and programmers, assist WSLr talk and music broadcasts. He said cortez-related programming could be added. Beaton also touted the popularity of radio, saying 91 percent of the u.S. public tunes in weekly. Vice president Jane von Hahmann suggested fiSH has two available rooms in the boatworks building, with air conditioning, including an empty office. Board members Herman Kruegle and Linda molto spoke about advantages in the proposal, with Molto saying community radio reaches an audience likely interested in fiSH events. after the meeting, von Hahmann said board members need to discuss Beatonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s request.

Heritage Day set for Cortez

the cortez cultural center will host a series of events during manatee county Heritage month in march. the public is invited to the center, 11655 cortez road W., cortez, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. thursday, march 14, to meet local historical fiction authors, including John macdonald, J.B. crawford, carol alt and peggy donoho. also, a series of events will be held on cortez Heritage day, which is Saturday, march 16. at 1 p.m., resident alan garner will lead a bus tour of the village to point out places of interest and relate cortez history. the suggested donation is $5. at 2 p.m. at the center, cortez resident and historian Mary Green will portray her grandmother, Sally adams fulford, while sharing stories about the villageâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s early years. at 5 p.m., the cortez Village Historical Society will welcome the public to a St. patrickâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s day celebration at the center. the cVHS will serve corned beef and cabbage, as well as beverages. dinner guests are asked to bring a dish to share at the meal, which will feature musical entertainment. for more information, call Kaye Bell at 941538-0945.

Click!

the islander welcomes news of the milestones in readersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; lives â&#x20AC;&#x201D; weddings, anniversaries, travels and other events. Send notices and photographs with detailed captions â&#x20AC;&#x201D; along with complete contact information to news@islander.org.

A Flea In Her Ear

By Georges Feydeau Directed by Kelly Wynn Woodland Co- Produced by Off Stage Ladies

MARCH 7-24

Raymonde believes her husband Victor Emmanuel has been unfaithful, so she hatches a scheme to catch him at a nearby hotel notorious for extramarital hanky-panky. The great French farce is full of mischief, mistaken identities and slamming doors in this new adaptation by David Ives.

TOTALLY HILARIOUS! â&#x2DC;&#x2026;â&#x2DC;&#x2026;â&#x2DC;&#x2026;â&#x2DC;&#x2026; UTTER PANDEMONIUM! â&#x2DC;&#x2026;â&#x2DC;&#x2026;â&#x2DC;&#x2026;â&#x2DC;&#x2026; A LAUGH BLAST! â&#x2DC;&#x2026;â&#x2DC;&#x2026;â&#x2DC;&#x2026;â&#x2DC;&#x2026; SHOWTIME 8 P.M., SUNDAY MATINEES 2 P.M.

TICKETS: $20 Box office opens 9-1 M-S and 1 hour before performances

UIFJTMBOEQMBZFST PSH t 10009 Gulf Drive & Pine Avenue, Anna Maria

THE ISLANDER n MARcH 13, 2019 n 15

Island Players, ‘Flea’ cast outdo themselves with French farce

By Sandy Ambrogi Islander Reporter a french farce can fill a theater with laughter. the island players’ latest production, “a flea in Her ear,” written by georges feydeau, did just that, filling the theater with laughter, chuckles and applause as an ensemble cast scampered, feigned, dashed and dallied through the fifth production of the island players’ 70th season. cast members came and went so quickly at times it was almost dizzying to keep up. daniel coppinger commanded the stage with his portrayal of bourgeoise french insurance man Victor chandebise, as well as poche, his look-alike bellboy at a questionable hotel. nancy denton portrayed Victor’s wife, raymonde, who, suspecting her husband of infidelity, set a plan in motion with best friend Lucienne, played by Judy glenn. the women schemed to lure Victor to the frisky puss hotel, known for short stays. in the midst of the scheming, an array of frenzied characters moved in and out of the chandebise drawing room, where the first and last acts occurred. nephew camille, suffering from speech problems, was played spot-on by Brannon Westfall, a newcomer to the island stage. His mumbled, jumbled lines brought smiles. He engaged in a fling with house helper antoinette. tiffany Baker tipped us to the action, tickling camille with a duster each time she was near him. michael mongold, making his acting debut, portrayed etienne, antoinette’s oblivious husband. mark Woodland, an island players veteran, portrayed don carlos Homenides de Histangua, Lucienne’s husband — a fast-moving force onstage — who suspects his wife, too, is having an affair. mike Lusk brought dr. finache’s character to life, appearing on queue with his strange cures and bawdy suggestions. colin Brady portrayed tournel, Victor’s friend and colleague, who assisted in stirring up confusion. By the time the first act goes dark in “a flea in Her ear,” the cast of characters had set themselves on a path of mischief and mistaken intent. it was easy to tell it wouldn’t end well. and then, we checked into the frisky puss hotel, operated by rick Kopp’s ferallion and ginger King

The cast of “A Flea in Her Ear” takes a bow March 7 at the Island Players theater. The rowdy French farce plays through March 24 at the theater, 10009 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria. Tickets are $20. Islander Photo: Sandy Ambrogi

Kelly’s eugenia. only in a farce could such a place exist. the cast of whacky residents at the puss added zest to the second act. An English guest portrayed by laura Morales, drew guffaws from the audience more than once. an old man played by richard LaVene, and Jennifer caldwell as the hotel chambermaid, had minor roles. But Coppinger ramped up the energy in his dual role. His quick costume changes, entrances, exits and jumping fits added hilarity to the case of mistaken identity. Between the slamming doors, saucy innuendoes and coppinger stealing the stage, act two was exhausting — as choreographed as any dance scene. it was an exercise in pure fun. “a flea in Her ear” continued with sleeping bellboys, gunfire, kisses and ruckus before all the misconceptions were sorted out and french joie de vivre settled back into the chandebise drawing room. How it all came together is one of the secrets to the success of this comedic undertaking. Kelly Wynn Woodland — wife of actor mark Woodland — directed, and said, in her director’s notes, “a flea in Her ear” was the first show she directed at $2 @ The Islander, 3218 E. Bay Drive, Holmes Beach.

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island players 25 years ago. “i hope this production is as enjoyable for our audiences to experience as it has been for us to create,” she wrote. it most certainly was. Well done, island players. and thanks for the hearty dose of laughter. Jan Van Wart designed the set, which functioned both as a drawing room and the frisky puss — no easy task since doors play an important roll in “a flea in Her ear.” patrick Bedell was light designer and mike Lusk handled sound design, including door slams and a few gunshots. pamela Hopkins’ costume design stayed true to the turn-of-the-century period, and rita Lameroux worked her magic on hair and makeup. Judi King served as stage manager and sound technician. Limited tickets remain for the play, which runs through march 24 at the theater, 10009 gulf drive, anna maria.the box office is open 9 a.m.-1p.m. daily and an hour prior to showtime. performances are 8 p.m. tuesday-Saturday and 2 p.m. Sunday. mondays are dark.

11th Annual Holmes Beach

Arts & Crafts Show Make plans to attend! 10-4:30 Saturday and Sunday March 16-17

Located at the

Holmes Beach City Field (on Marina Drive)

For Information Call 941-379-0951 • Artisans from across the U.S. • Admission and parking are FREE. • On-site display & lectures provided by Wildlife Inc.’s Education-Rehabilitation Center.

Stop by and visit the birds!

16 n March 13, 2019 n THE ISLANDER

Center celebrates home, sweet home with island tour “Well, come on in.” The owners of four homes will open their doors to thousands of people Saturday, March 16, sharing how they live the island life. The Center of Anna Maria Island’s annual Tour of Homes, set for 10 a.m.-3 p.m., will feature four homes — three in Holmes Beach and one in Anna Maria — “with distinctive architecture, elegant interiors and stunning waterfront views,” according to the center. One of the homes is the Horne property, 8403 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, which John Horne purchased 31 years ago — during his tenure with Fast Eddie’s restaurant. The block home built in the 1960s overlooking Bimini Bay was renovated by John and Amanda Horne in 2017, but maintains “small island charm.” John Horne’s parents, Ann and Lynn, came across the “for sale” property more than three decades ago and notified their son they had found the perfect home for him. The owners worked with Mike Carter and his construction team on the renovation — and preservation — of a place where the family celebrated many occasions. In addition to the Horne home, the tour sites include: • The Fangmeyer home, 95 52nd St., Holmes Beach, which owner Belle Fangmeyer designed, taking inspiration from nature, the French countryside in particular. The 3,300-square-foot beachfront property, which Fangmeyer and husband Dan purchased in 2017, was built in 2014 by Whitehead Construction. The home features three bedrooms, sunset views from upstairs and downstairs porches, a pool, indoor and outdoor kitchens and lots of living space. • The Kerchner home, 637 Key Royale Drive, Holmes Beach, is owned by Greg and Kathy Kerchner, who worked with architect Gene Aubry and Shoreline Builders on the home’s coastal contemporary design. There are many custom-made elements inside and outside the home, including ipe and aluminum balconies, a two-story foyer, an infinity pool and spa, a floating black walnut staircase and a climate-controlled room with cypress racks to hold their wine collection. • The Willow house, 222 Willow Ave., Anna Maria, was designed by Beacon Home with interior styling by Emily Moss, landscaping by Lancaster Designs and a pool by Sanger Pools. The home was constructed last year by Moss Builders and features four bedrooms, four baths, two half-baths and a kitchen and upstairs bar designed by Progressive Cabinetry. Center tour includes center A fifth stop on the tour will be the center, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria, which will feature sales of crafts and home decor, as well as host food vendors 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Additionally, the ticket sales and drawing for the tour of homes quilt created by the Eyeland Needlers

volunteers will be at the center. Tour tickets are $25. Tickets for the quilt raffle, available at the center, Proceeds from the event will benefit the center’s are $1 for one or $5 for six tickets. programs and mission. Tickets to the tour also are available at the center, For more information, go online to centerami.org 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria, as well as various or call the center at 941-778-1908. businesses in Anna Maria and Holmes Beach. — Lisa Neff The living space in the Horne home in Holmes Beach. Brazilian pecky cypress on the walls in the living and dining areas adds warmth. Islander Photo: Jack Elka

A handyman friend from North Carolina made the large arch over the kitchen stove, as well as the mantle over the fireplace in the living room at the Fangmeyer home at 92 52nd St., Holmes Beach. Islander Photo: Jack Elka

Outdoors at Greg and Kathy Kerchner’s home, 637 Key Royale Drive, Holmes Beach. Islander Photo: Jack Elka

The Eyeland Needlers quilt, “Mermaids Garden,” will be raffled during the Center of Anna Maria Island Tour of Homes Saturday, March 16, at the center, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria. Islander Courtesy Photo

The home at 222 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria, features four bedrooms. Islander Photo: Jack Elka

THE ISLANDER n March 13, 2019 n 17

Ousted code officer alleges toxic workplace in Anna Maria By Ryan Paice Islander Reporter An employee ousted from the city of Anna Maria earlier this year is alleging she endured a toxic work environment. Angela Albrecht, who worked as code and parking officer and administrative assistant, was fired Jan. 24. In an interview with The Islander in January, Albrecht shared a list of grievances, some recently corroboAlbrecht rated by another former employee. Her claims point to misconduct in the city, alleging again March 8 that toxicity thrives in the cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s pattern of forcing employees out of their jobs. Albrecht alleged Mayor Dan Murphy forced several city employGibbs ees out of their positions, including herself, former building, code and parking manager Pamela Gibbs, and others. Albrecht alleges Murphy called himself the â&#x20AC;&#x153;Grim Reaper,â&#x20AC;? claiming he was adept at getting employees to leave their jobs on their own volition. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I had a job once, years ago, that I kind of felt that way about,â&#x20AC;? Murphy said in a Feb. 1 interview with The Islander. â&#x20AC;&#x153;So that might have been why somebody would have said that. But that was years ago, when I was a young man in my 30s.â&#x20AC;?

Albrecht said, in her situation, the city pressured her to leave by reducing her responsibilities and ostracizing her from other employees. â&#x20AC;&#x153;They removed me from the building department so I wouldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t see anything more, and they put me Murphy in some closet (a small workspace) in the back,â&#x20AC;? Albrecht said in an interview Jan. 29. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Then, they tried to change my schedule and told people not to speak with me.â&#x20AC;? Gibbs, hired as code manager in May 2015, said Jan. 31 that she was forced to retire. She said Murphy informed her in November 2017 that he had hired David Greenbaum as building official and that she would be laid off. Gibbs added she was given no reason for being forced out of her job, and Murphy insisted on hosting a retirement party despite her unwillingness. Another former employee, who corroborates Albrechtâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s and Gibbâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s claims about the toxic work place and the mayorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s moniker, only agreed to speak anonymously due to fear of retribution from the city. Yet another former employee refused to speak for fear of retribution. The mayor declined to comment on Albrechtâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s claim that he forced people from their jobs, calling the allegation â&#x20AC;&#x153;ridiculous.â&#x20AC;? He also dismissed Albrechtâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s characterization of

city government as a toxic workplace. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s just disgruntled employees,â&#x20AC;? Murphy said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;For them, they might have perceived it as toxic, but they never ever brought that to my attention at the time.â&#x20AC;?

Mayors meet

Palmetto Mayor Shirley Groover Bryant, left, and Holmes Beach Mayor Judy Titsworth meet during a visit March 4 to Palmetto city hall. Islander Photo: Courtesy HBPD/Code officer JT Thomas

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18 n March 13, 2019 n THE ISLANDER

Improvement projects prioritized in Bradenton Beach

By Ryan Paice Islander Reporter A shopping list of community improvement projects is in store for Bradenton Beach. With redesigning Bridge Street, painting the Historic Bridge Street Pier and burying utilities in the community redevelopment district, there are several moving parts to the improvement efforts. With loads of input from a public workshop in February, community redevelopment agency members March 6 voted 7-0 to keep two-way traffic on Bridge Street and make no change to parking as contractor Emily Anne Smith redesigns the commercial street. Bridge Street is the main street of Bradenton Beach and it anchors the CRA district, the historic area bordered by Cortez Road, Sarasota Bay, Fifth Street South and the Gulf of Mexico. The CRA board, tasked with using tax revenue to promote restoration, growth and tourism in the district since 1992, now consists of the city commissioners, mayor and two appointed community members. Meeting March 6, the CRA discussed options for Bridge Street infrastructure to coincide with Smith’s design, but Mayor John Chappie said any other options — such as making it a one-way or closing it to vehicular traffic — would cause problems. “I like it the way it is,” CRA member/Commissioner Ralph Cole said. “Let’s fix it up. When I went around and talked to lots of people, they wanted shade trees and trees in general.” Cole suggested replacing planter boxes along Bridge Street — designed by city engineer Lynn Burnett as stormwater drainage features — with trees. Ironically, the planters displaced a number of trees during installation. CRA members unanimously voted for Smith to provide a conceptual drawing for Bridge Street that includes hardscaping and landscaping, as well as removing the planter “bunkers” and adding trees. Burnett said she would go over Smith’s plan to ensure adequate stormwater drainage. District survey When she was tasked with the redesign of Bridge Street, Smith requested a survey. The city issued a request for proposals for the survey and received three bids. However, Burnett said, the bids came in like apples and oranges, due to the RFP lacking a description. Subsequently, commissioners declined to contract the survey. City attorney Ricinda Perry suggested withholding city action until Smith completed her conceptual drawings. Then, said Perry, Burnett can determine whether a survey of the street is needed. In the meantime, Burnett was asked to provide Smith with a drawing “to scale” of Bridge Street. Commissioners agreed to wait for Smith’s design before issuing a revised RFP for a survey. Pier colors Smith suggested repainting the Historic Bridge Street Pier railings white and the roofs red to create an aesthetic theme that would be carried out on other structures in her design. The pier currently is coated with a clear sealant and the shingled roof is gray. Cole asked whether adding a coating of paint to the roof would void the city’s warranty.

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Mark Porter, senior utilities coordinator for CDM Smith, the engineering and construction firm hired to oversee the grounding of utilities in the Bradenton Beach historic district, addresses the Community Redevelopment Agency at its March 6 meeting. Islander Photo: Ryan Paice

During public comment, Bradenton Beach Police Chief Sam Speciale — facilitator for the city’s pier team committee — said maintaining a white pier is expensive and fruitless. Former Commissioner Jan Vosburgh agreed. Having heard from Speciale and Vosburgh, CRA member Ed Chiles expressed pessimism with Smith’s proposal to paint the pier, saying maintenance costs and warranty concerns would prevent him from voting for Smith’s proposal. Action on Smith’s request was in three motions. The first directed public works manager Tom Woodard to contact the pier roof manufacturer about the warranty and to ask for a recommendation on coating the roof. CRA members voted 6-1 to approve the motion, with Chiles voting “no.” The second motion directed Smith to obtain three quotes to paint the pier white. CRA members approved the motion 5-2. Chiles and newly appointed CRA member David Bell voted “no.” The third motion, which passed unanimously, directed Smith to specify which structures, planned and existing, would follow her white pier-, red roof-

theme, as well as provide CRA members with a sample of a red-coated roof. Buried utilities The CRA’s plans to put utilities underground on Bridge Street and across Gulf Drive in the historic district won’t become a reality for another three months, according to Mark Porter, senior utilities coordinator for CDM Smith, the engineering and construction firm hired to oversee the project. Plans are being ironed out between the city and its electric utility, Florida Power and Light, but Porter told CRA members he has yet to hear of any issues. Porter said FPL’s designs would be provided to Smith for her redesign. The next step is to work with property owners to secure transformer locations. In December 2018, Porter said the project would take around six months, with construction scheduled during slower business periods. The next CRA meeting will be at 9:30 a.m. Wednesday, April 3, at Bradenton Beach City Hall, 107 Gulf Drive N.

BB commissioners discuss new ward boundaries

By Ryan Paice Islander Reporter The boundaries are taking shape in Bradenton Beach. City commissioners voted 5-0 March 7 to approve the map for four wards recommended by the Manatee County Supervisor of Elections Office with the addition of some changes during the public hearing an ordinance reinstating the voting districts. Charter Amendment One, which called for commissioners to adopt an ordinance establishing four wards “equal in population and that maintain the integrity of neighborhoods and communities of interest,” was approved by voters in November 2018. Presenting the proposed ward maps, city attorney Ricinda Perry said the districts are similar to those eliminated by a citywide ballot in 2017. She said past wards were based on population and now the wards boundaries are based on population and neighborhoods. Four wards of equal blocs of voters were first established in 1976, before voters approved a charter amendment in 2017 to eliminate the voting districts. Bradenton Beach charter review committee members, under Perry’s direction, proposed reinstating the wards

on the November 2018 ballot, which was approved by voters. The SOE’s recommended Ward 1 would contain 234 registered voters and be the most populated. The ward, as mapped, is bordered by the northern city limit, Sarasota Bay, the Gulf of Mexico, Canasta Drive and 24th Street North. Ward 2 would be the least populated district, with 169 voters. It would be bordered by 24th Street North, Canasta Drive, Sarasota Bay, the Gulf of Mexico and end at the southern property line of Runaway Bay condominiums and the Lacosta condominiums near 17th Street North. Commissioner Ralph Cole suggested taking the land between the Gulf of Mexico, 25th Street North, Avenue C and 24th Street North from Ward 1 and adding it to Ward 2 to even out the voter base. Commissioners agreed, and Cole’s suggestion was one of the changes to the SOE’s recommended wards approved at the meeting. The third ward would contain 212 voters, with the southern border of the Ward 2 acting as the northern border for the Ward 3, Sarasota Bay and the Gulf of Mexico at its sides, ending at Second Street North and Please see wards, Next page

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Holmes Beach planners touch up comp plan proposal By ChrisAnn Silver Esformes Islander Reporter Holmes Beach planners put the final changes to a request for proposals for a facilitator to update the city’s comprehensive plan. The next step is the city commission. Members of the planning commisBrisson sion and Mary Buonagura, the city’s human resources analyst, spent about five months and many meetings to produce the bid request for a comp plan facilitator. A comp plan outlines community goals for growth

and development and details transportation, utilities, land use, recreation and housing policy and regulations. The Holmes Beach plan was adopted in 1989 and last amended in 2007. Pending city commission approval, the RFP will be issued. The planning commission will review any bids that are generated and make a hiring recommendation to the city commission. The commission has the final say. At the March 6 meeting, planning commissioners reached consensus to recommend the RFP be released March 18, with a pre-bid meeting to answer any contractor questions April 12. Proposals will be due to the city by June 3. Additionally, they recommended an April 26 deadline for bidders to submit written questions to the city.

“It’s a conceptual timeline,” member Scott Boyd said. “It can be bumped back a month if (the commission) is more comfortable with that.” City staff and planning commission chair Charles Stealey will attend the pre-bid meeting. Stealey asked city clerk Stacey Johnston if city planner Bill Brisson also will attend the meeting. Brisson was previously a contractor for the city with La Rue Planning and Management Services of Fort Myers. Johnston said Brisson was recently hired as a city employee and is no longer a contractor. He likely will attend the meeting as city planner and La Rue would be a possible bidder for the project. The proposed RFP was added to the agenda for the March 12 city commission meeting. The planning commission will meet at 6 p.m. Wednesday, April 3, at city hall, 5801 Marina Drive.

New Holmes Beach director meets planners

Barolo pickleball court reopens

The pickleball court in Bradenton Beach’s Lou Barolo South Park, on the corner of Highlands Avenue and Fourth Street North, sits finished March 8. Work by the city and Oneco Concrete and Asphalt expanded the court with $3,575 from the Community Redevelopment Agency. Public works employees finished repainting, restriping and centering the net March 8. Islander Photo: Courtesy CoBB/Tom Woodard wards continued from page 18

Bay Drive North. The proposed Ward 4 would be bordered by Second Street North, Bay Drive North, Sarasota Bay, the Gulf of Mexico and the southern city limits. The ward would include 183 voters. Commissioners observed the boundaries for Wards 3 and 4 as mapped by the SOE would hinder Randy White’s ability to run for re-election when his term expires this year. People will vote for ward commissioners in oddnumbered wards in 2019 and going forward, in oddnumbered years, and even-numbered wards in 2020 and even-numbered years. White’s term ends in 2019, but he resides in what would be Ward 4, which would prevent him from running for re-election until 2020. Commissioner Jake Spooner suggested relocating the border between Wards 3 and 4 to Cortez Road,

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The new Holmes Beach development services “I’m personally happy to see you here,” Stealey director is wasting no time getting to know the city. said. “I think your contribution is needed.” Barney Salmon, hired in January by the city to — ChrisAnn Silver Esformes head the city’s new development services department, will provide oversight to the planning department. He Barney Salmon, attended a March 6 planning commission meeting to recently hired introduce himself and meet the volunteer board memHolmes Beach bers. development Planning commission chair Charles Stealey asked services direcSalmon what prompted him to apply for the job. tor, addresses Salmon said he was interested in working with a the planning smaller community. commission Salmon, of Sarasota, said he was employed by March 6. Manatee County for 20 years. During his time with Islander Photo: the county, Salmon met Holmes Beach code enforceChrisAnn ment director JT Thomas, who also previously worked Silver Esformes for the county. Thomas told Salmon a new position was opening up in the city and suggested he apply. Cleanup set for March 16 “It’s a great place,” Salmon said. “I love the Keep Manatee Beautiful announced adopt-a-highisland.” way and road and shore groups will clean their designated sites in Manatee County 9 a.m.-noon Saturday, March 16. Others interested in volunteering to clean up roads which would help balance the populations. He added that the city could renumber the wards, and beaches can report at 9 a.m. to the following locaswapping Ward 3 and Ward 4. Doing so would allow tions on and near Anna Maria Island: • Anna Maria City Hall, 10005 Gulf Drive, Anna White, who would then reside in the Ward 3, to run for Maria. re-election in 2019. • Kingfish Boat Ramp, Manatee Avenue-State Mayor John Chappie agreed with the suggestions, saying he prefers the district boundaries for the Road 64, Holmes Beach. • Coquina Beach main entrance, Bradenton community redevelopment agency be within a single Beach. ward. • Anna Maria Island Moose Lodge, 110 Gulf Drive Commissioners agreed. Perry will bring their redrawn maps — along with S., Bradenton Beach. • FISH Preserve, 11601 Cortez Road W., Cortez. voter population numbers by block and a draft ordiFor more information, call KMB at 941-795nance to the commission for a final hearing and vote 8272. at a future meeting.

20 n MARcH 13, 2019 n THE ISLANDER

Gathering

Christ Church presents brass quintet concert

the florida gulf coast Brass Quintet will perform a concert in the sanctuary at christ church of Longboat Key presbyterian (uSa). the concert will be at 2 p.m. Sunday, march 17. the event is open to the public. an announcement from the church said the quintet’s repertoire includes music as distant as renaissance and as current as the 21st century. Roser puts pancakes on menu for church is at 6400 gulf of mexico drive, Longroser memorial community church will open boat Key. its fellowship hall Saturday, march 16, for a pancake for more information, call 941-383-8833. breakfast — the final one of the season. church members will be cooking and serving breakfast 8-11 a.m. the menu will include pancakes, sausage, syrup, melted butter, applesauce, biscuits and gravy, juice, coffee and tea. the cost per diner is $6. there is no charge for children under the age of 5. after breakfast, diners are encouraged to burn off the morning’s calories with a stroll across the street to the roser guild thrift Shop, which will be open 10 a.m.-1 p.m. the church is at 512 pine ave., anna maria. for more information, call the church office at 941-778-0414.

St. Bernard serves St. Pat’s breakfast

St. Bernard catholic church’s Holy name Society will serve a St. patrick’s day breakfast Sunday, march 17, in the church activity center. the menu includes eggs, sausage, corned beef hash and pancakes. Breakfast will be served 8 a.m.-noon that Sunday at the church, 248 S. Harbor drive, Holmes Beach. the cost will be $7 while those 12 and under will eat for free. for more information, call 941-778-4769. Send announcements for Gathering to news@ islander.org and calendar@islander.org.

Milestone

Mission Fest at Roser

Ginger Huhn tends to a CROP Walk booth. Mission Fest 2019 will be Sunday, March 17, at Roser Memorial Community Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. About 25 organizations will set up booths at Mission Fest and the church plans special worship services at 8:30 a.m. and 10 a.m. For more information, call the church at 941-778-0414. Islander Courtesy Photo

Birthday bash

Margaret Chapman celebrates her 95th birthday March 2 at the Sandbar, where she received wishes from restaurant owner Ed Chiles and her cousin Ann Lindenfeld and other family and friends.

Gathering plans SPECIAL EVENTS Saturday, March 16 8-11 a.m. — Pancake breakfast, Roser Memorial Community Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Information: 941-778-0414. Sunday, March 17 8 a.m.-noon — St. Patrick’s Day pancake breakfast, St. Bernard Catholic Church, 248 S. Harbor Drive, Holmes Beach. Fee applies. Information: 941-778-4769. 2 p.m. — Florida Gulf Coast Brass Quintet concert, Christ Church of Longboat Key Presbyterian (USA), 6400 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key. Information: 941-383-8833. SAVE THE DATE St. Patrick’s Day, March 17. Concert with Key Chorale Chamber Singers, March 31, Roser Church. Palm Sunday, April 14. Good Friday, April 19. Passover begins, April 19. Holy Saturday, April 20. Easter, April 21. Passover ends, April 27. ONGOING LISTINGS Christ Church of Longboat Key Presbyterian (USA), 6400 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key. Sunday service 8:30 a.m. and 10 a.m.; men’s Bible study 9 a.m. Monday; women’s Bible study 10 a.m. Wednesday. CrossPointe Fellowship, 8665 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. Sunday worship 9 a.m.; Sunday life group 10:30 a.m.; women’s prayer 9:30 a.m. Tuesday; men’s Bible study 7 a.m. Wednesday; fellowship meal 6:15 p.m. Wednesday; Wednesday Night Blast 6:45 p.m. Episcopal Church of the Annunciation, 4408 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. Sunday Holy Eucharist (Rite I) 8 a.m.; Sunday Holy Eucharist (Rite II) 10:30 a.m.; men’s breakfast 8 a.m. Wednesday. Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, 6608 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Saturday service 5 p.m.; Sunday service 9:30 a.m.; Sunday fellowship 10:30 a.m.; prayer partners 11:30 a.m. Wednesday; women’s Bible study 10 a.m. Thursday. Harvey Memorial Community Church, 300 Church Ave., Bradenton Beach. Sunday services 8:30 a.m. and 10:15 a.m. Longboat Island Chapel, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key. Sunday service 10 a.m.; fellowship following service. Roser Memorial Community Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Sunday worship 8:30 a.m. and 10 a.m.; adult Sunday school 8:45 a.m.; Sunday adult book study 9 a.m. Also, first and third Wednesdays, Roser Golfing for God, IMG Academy Golf Club, 4350 El Conquistador Parkway, Bradenton; second and fourth Wednesdays, 11 a.m., Just Older Youth/JOY Brown Bag Lunch Series; Tuesdays through April 2, 5:30 p.m., Terrific Tuesdays. St. Bernard Catholic Church, 248 S. Harbor Drive, Holmes Beach. Saturday Mass 4 p.m.; Sunday Mass 8:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. followed by coffee and doughnuts; weekday Mass 8:30 a.m. Send listings to calendar@islander.org.

Margaret Chapman celebrates her 95th birthday with a surprise party attended by Ginger Adkins, Leslie Adkins, Ralph Grizzel, Steve Adkins and Vic and Kathy Caserta. Chapman’s family owned and operated the Anna Maria Motel for many years. The party followed another birthday celebration at the Sandbar Restaurant in Anna Maria. Islander Photos: Courtesy Kathy Caserta

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THE ISLANDER n MARcH 13, 2019 n 21

Obituaries

Home goods

Sherry Young of Ohio and sister Rhonda Ford of Anna Maria Island browse the offerings at the St. Bernard Catholic Church rummage sale, held March 1 and March 2 in the activity center of the Holmes Beach church. Islander Photos: Nenita Daguinotas

Lauren Audrey (Fletcher) Bilan

Lauren audrey (fletcher) Bilan, 30, died march

She was a loving wife and mother of two beautiful children. She was born aug. 3, 1988, at Sarasota memorial Hospital and was raised on Anna Maria Island by her mother, Shelly fletcher, and late father, Westwood fletcher iii. Her stubbornness, strength and Bilan drive were like no others. She graduated from manatee High School and continued her education at mti as a surgical technician, quickly starting her career. Her family will receive friends noon-1 p.m. Saturday, march 16, with a celebration of life to follow at 1 p.m. at Shannon funeral Home Westview chapel, 5610 manatee ave. W., Bradenton. memorial donations to support her children’s college education are welcome. the Lauren Bilan memorial account is with Wells fargo. condolences may be made online at www.shannonfuneralhomes.com. She is survived by her husband, andrew; daughter azaelia Brown; son Zander; mother Shelly fletcher; sisters Heather and husband chris foley and Jordan “Jordy;” brother dylan mcintosh; in-laws andria and pete; nieces audrey, Veda, caitlin and allison; nephew alexander; and many extended family and friends.

Richard A. ‘Dick’ Herman

richard a. “dick” Herman, 99, died march 5, in Bradenton. He was born in new York City and spent the summers of his youth in milford, connecticut, where he met his wife of almost 75 years, ruth-ann. He spent his retirement years in Holmes Beach. He served in the u.S. army six Herman years during World War ii and fought as a lieutenant in gen. george patton’s 3rd army. After the war, he and his wife made their home and raised their family in Milford, where he worked as an educator for the milford Board of education for more than 30 years as a history teacher, vice principal, principal and assistant superintendent of secondary education. dick was an active member of his community, involved in the american red cross, the united Way and the Kiwanis club. after retirement, he and his wife made a second home on Anna Maria Island, where they spent their winters. Wherever he was, mr. Herman was an avid tennis

At your service

obituaries are offered as a community service in The Islander newspaper to residents and family of residents, both past and present, as well as to those people with ties to the island. Submit to news@ islander.org. islander obituaries are free, including a photo and posting on the website. paid obituaries can be discussed with advertising consultant toni Lyon. call the islander at 941-778-7978.

Dad Cory Rintaha of Minnesota shops for sunhats with Joshua, 4, Atara, 2, and Anika, 1, at the St. Bernard Catholic Church rummage sale, held March 1-2 in the activity center. player, sailor, bridge player and new York Yankees fan. in September 2018, he was the honored veteran during the 7th-inning stretch at a Yankees home game. He also enjoyed reading, playing the piano, watching mSnBc and having a dry martini while listening to the music of patsy cline. entertaining his many friends during cocktail hour was a favorite nightly ritual, but his best medicine was his beloved care-giver — “the cream in his coffee” — manuela espinosa. a memorial party will be at 5 p.m. friday, march 15, at the Shell point clubhouse in Holmes Beach. a celebration of life will be held in connecticut in June. Brown & Sons funeral Homes & crematory 43rd Street chapel is in charge of arrangements. memorial donations may be made to the richard a. Herman memorial educational Scholarship fund, milford Board of education, attn. Student activity dept., 70 W. river St., milford ct 06460. condolences may be made online to brownandsonsfuneral.com.

Sunday Services 8:30 & 10:00 AM

Adult Sunday School Follows Second Service

The Rev. Dr. Norman Pritchard SERMON:

Men’s Bible Study - Mondays: 9:00 AM Women’s Bible Study - Wednesdays: 10:00 AM

“Images of America: Anna Maria Island,” a pictorial history of the island compiled by Bonner Joy is available at The Islander office, 3218 E. Bay Drive, Holmes Beach. It includes many neverbefore-seen photos from Joy’s collection. She is publisher-owner of The Islander newspaper, launched in 1992, and a devoted islander for 44 years.

Pancake Breakfast

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mr. Herman is survived by his daughter, nancy a. and husband patrick decker; grandchildren olivia, magen tracy, Jeremiah tracy and Sean tracy; son-inlaw gerald tracy; and nieces, grand- and great-grand nieces and nephews.

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JOIN CHRIST CHURCH OF LBKʼS ENRICHMENT WEEKEND ON “HOW TO LIVE THE REST OF OUR LIVES” The Rev. Dr. Douglas Pratt of First Presbyterian Church, Bonita Springs, FL will lead us in three days of teaching and fellowship to help us draw closer to God. Friday, March 22 ~ 5:30 PM - “Forever Young” Message & catered dinner by Harry’s $25 pp. Reservations required

Christ Church invites you for a weekend featuring speaker, teacher, author and theologian, Rev. Dr. Douglas Pratt

Saturday, March 23 ~ 8:30 AM - Noon - Two Bible studies and sessions; “Branchology 101” and “The Fruitful Life” including breakfast by the Men’s Club and a Hymn Sing. No charge, but reservations required. Sunday, March 24 ~ 8:30 and 10:00 AM - Dr. Pratt’s sermon will be “Eternity’s Starting Line” For more information or to make a reservation, contact Kristine Bemko at 248.808.4409 or kbemko@aol.com. Brings friends or neighbors!

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22 n March 13, 2019 n THE ISLANDER

AMIAL signals early spring

The Anna Maria Island Art League draws people to city field in the 5800 block of Marina Drive in Holmes Beach March 9, the first day of the two-day juried fine arts and crafts festival, Springfest. LEFT: Ray Butler talks about his pottery display, featuring work by Nicaraguan artist Enmanuel Macdonado, March 9 at Springfest. BELOW: Koko and Karma — Koko Ray Hansen and Karma Barbara Allen — perform March 9 at Springfest, held at city field in Holmes Beach over two days. The event featured art displays, food and beverage sales and musical entertainment.

Artist Debbie Hagstram, left, of Ocala helps Peggy Bennett of Skaneateles, New York, create a “make and take” scarf March 9 at the Anna Maria Island Art League’s Springfest, held at city field in Holmes Beach. The fine arts festival drew crowds March 9 and March 10. Alyssa Aiena, 3, and sister Adrianna, 8, of Bradenton, create art in a tent at the Anna Maria Island Art League’s Springfest, held March 9-10 at city field in Holmes Beach. Islander Photos: Lisa Neff

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AME celebrates Dr. Seuss’ birthday

By Ryan Paice, ryan@islander.org

Volunteers read from a Dr. Seuss book to AME kindergarten students March 1 to celebrate the author’s birthday.

AME calendar • Wednesday, march 13, 3:30 p.m. parentteacher organization meeting in the media center. • friday, march 15, record day, no school. • friday, march 22, 1 p.m., early release. • Spring break, no school, march 25-29. • monday, april 1, students return from spring break. • tuesday, april 2, fourth- and fifth-grade english Language arts writing assessment. • Wednesday-thursday, april 3-4, third-grade english Language arts reading assessment. • tuesday, april 23, 5-6:30 p.m., parentteacher organization dinner hosted by the columbia restaurant in the school cafeteria. Starting at 6:30 p.m., first-grade play in the auditorium. • thursday, april 25, progress reports go home. • monday, april 30, fifth-grade science assessment. • Saturday, may 4, 6 p.m., Spring gala at the Waterline resort. anna maria elementary is at 4700 gulf drive, Holmes Beach. for more information, call the school at 941708-5525.

BELOW: AME kindergartners Josie Locke, left, Vivien Tupin and Grayson Enander dress as Cat in the Hat, Thing One and Thing Two March 1 as a part of the National Education Association’s Read Across America Day. Islander Photos: Courtesy AME/Kelly Crawford

AME students Christopher Calles-Deleon, left, 6, and Kason Davis, 6, show off crafts — including snack kebabs and decorations — made March 1 for the school’s Dr. Seuss celebration.

T i k i & K i t t y’s Let’s go shopping! Tiki and Kitty are eager to share their adventures in shopping, so come along to the shops! Sandpiper Cottage is a beautiful home decor store filled with unique and artistic pieces as found or repurposed by their talented artist. they take pride in transforming the old and worn out into a new perfectly, imperfect look. they feature a mixture of styles: cottage, coastal, beachy and even a little rustic farmhouse. they also have a great selection of gifts and jewelry. You Never Know Thrift has everything you could possibly be looking for: clothes, kitchen 30 + VENDORS & LOCAL ARTISTS Wed-Sat 10-5 Thur 10-6 615 59th St. W. Bradenton

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Adventures in Shopping … Antiques, Art-Tiques and Chic Boutiques!

utensils, small appliances, furniture, dVds and autographed sports memorabilia. the inventory is constantly changing. So keep going back. You never know what you will find. Magnolia Antique Mall is a great little gem in ellenton where you can find some of the nicest antiques and collectibles. their vendors have an amazing array of pottery, glass, furniture and more. Blessed & Distressed in palma Sola Square, around the corner from Winn-dixie, offers 30-plus vendors and artists — everything from classic to quirky

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Tide and Moon Indoor market with 15 vendors & artisans Vintage, Unique & Shabby Chic Furniture Coastal, Nautical & Rustic Home Décor Antiques & Collectibles Tuesday-Saturday 10am-5pm Sunday 12-5pm Fri-Sat 10am-7pm Sunday 12pm-5pm

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— including vintage, upcycled, shabby chic, handsewn fanciful frocks and local crafts and art. You won’t be disappointed with this great shop, where the ambiance begs you to take a seat and relax. Scavengers Marketplace now has a shop on Anna Maria Island at the Island Shopping Center in Holmes Beach. check out the new digs but don’t forget Sip & Shop at the ellenton location, 4-7 p.m. the third friday of the month. Wine, hors d’oeuvre and savings. come help moonracer pet rescue. Tide & Moon on the Historic Bridge Street pier has a great selection of handmade jewelry, including island souvenirs, such as the ami pearl by silversmith Laura Shely. Please, be sure to tell our friends in the shops, “The Islander sent me.”

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24 n MARcH 13, 2019 n THE ISLANDER

Bradenton Beach website still missing, officials ‘mum’ By ryan paice Islander Reporter the city of Bradenton Beach has no website and no explanation. city commissioners approved a license and service agreement for the design and hosting of a new website with civicplus — a website service provider in manhattan, Kansas — in early december 2018. While no time frame was given for the final website, the contract required civicplus to create a temporary site within two weeks of signing the agreement. the temporary site was to contain contact information, office hours, alerts, news and a meeting calendar. However, as of march 7, access to www. cityofbradentonbeach.com opens a page with only

‘Ugly’ shop issued red tag

A stop work order is attached to a window March 7 at what previously was Funky Island Essentials retail store, 5702 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. The property is owned by the adjacent Ugly Grouper restaurant, which has plans to open a retail store. Owners put merchandise into the store before holding a business tax receipt, which prompted a red-tag Feb. 21. Since permitting for the site is incomplete, the location cannot be occupied, according to HB code enforcement director JT Thomas. Islander Photo: ChrisAnn Silver Esformes

a message: “Website coming soon!” mayor John chappie declined to comment march 7. the city’s website was taken offline in october 2018 because it did not comply with the u.S. americans with disabilities act, a civil rights law that prohibits discrimination based on disability. to comply, public web sites must limit visuals to those that do not cause seizures for viewers. Sites also must provide audio assistance for people with visual disabilities. When the city learned a disclaimer would not insulate a lawsuit, the website was suspended. the new website is to be ada complaint and, under the agreement, civicplus must train city staff in how to keep update the site for compliance.

Holmes Beach man arrested for DUI

pulled over for speeding, a man who told police he was on his way to a liquor store was arrested feb. 24 for driving under the influence. Lucas andrews, 36, of Holmes Beach, was stopped at 1:43 a.m. in the 9900 block of gulf drive in anna maria by Holmes Beach police officer alan desantis. the officer clocked andrews’ vehicle at 44 mph in a 25-mph zone Andrews while it traveled north in the 8000 block of palm drive in Holmes Beach, according to the HBpd report. after he was pulled over, andrews told police he was going home and believed he was on cortez road in Bradenton on his way to a liquor store. asked about consuming alcohol, andrews said he had “a couple drinks of whiskey” and should not have been driving, the HBpd report stated. desantis reported andrews was cooperative, took a road sobriety test, performed poorly and was taken into custody. at the HBpd station, he provided breath samples measuring 0.218 and 0.223 blood-alcohol content. drunk driving laws prohibit a Bac of 0.08 or higher. andrews was transported and booked at the manatee county jail. a $120 bond was posted and andrews was released, pending an 8:30 a.m. monday, april 1, arraignment at the manatee county Judicial center, 1051 manatee ave. W., Bradenton.

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THE ISLANDER n MARcH 13, 2019 n 25

Bradenton man arrested for drugs at BB roundabout

By Kathy Prucnell

Island police blotter

Anna Maria feb. 27, Sandbar restaurant, 100 Spring ave., battery. a manatee county sheriff’s deputy was dispatched to a fight between two employees in the restaurant kitchen. the victim declined to press charges. no injuries were reported. march 4, 100 block of Hammock road, domestic disturbance. family members argued. an mcSo deputy responded, and no physical violence was reported or observed. Anna Maria is policed by the MCSO. Bradenton Beach march 2, 200 block of Bay drive, domestic battery. While arguing about who drank the last beer, a 48-year-old man grabbed his girlfriend’s arm, bruising it between the elbow and shoulder. the man was arrested, taken to BBPD station and booked at the manatee county jail. march 3, 2200 block of avenue B, suspicious circumstances. a woman reported several boxes that were packed for a move were opened by an unknown person and a stereo valued at $500 went missing. BBpd advised the woman to recheck her belongings and provide serial numbers for any missing items. march 4, 100 block of first Street north, battery. dispatched to a disturbance, a Bradenton Beach police officer found a man lying in the road and another man standing next to him. the man standing was arrested for battery after telling police he punched the man following an argument over a ride home. the victim was unable to fill out a statement due to his impairment. He was transported to Blake medical center in Bradenton for treatment. Bradenton Beach is policed by BBPD. Cortez feb. 27, 10000 block of cortez road, breakin. a 38-year-old man reported an unknown person

attempted to enter his apartment. march 3, Swordfish grill & tiki Bar, trespass warning. a man was warned for trespassing after he was observed sleeping in a car in the parking lot. Cortez is policed by the MCSO. Holmes Beach march 1, 200 block of 84th Street, theft. dispatched for a theft, Holmes Beach police spoke to a man who noticed 15 $20 bills and a $100 bill were missing after he placed his wallet on a dresser. march 1, 600 block of north point drive, theft. a commercial fisher reported 60, 35 and 25 gallons of fuel siphoned from his gas tanks on his center-console fishing boat feb. 22-28. HBpd took photographs of evidence on the boat. march 2, manatee public Beach, 4000 gulf drive, marchman act. a Holmes Beach police officer responded to a report of a man passed out near the restrooms. HBpd contacted emergency medical services and he was transported for treatment to Blake medical center in Bradenton. march 4, manatee public Beach, 4000 gulf drive, theft. a $400 black bicycle was reported stolen from a bike stand. the owner told police he locked the bike but could have left the key in the lock before walking to the beach. march 4, alvin’s island, 3602 e. Bay drive, theft/ marijuana. after watching a customer remove price tags and place merchandise into his pockets for three hours, a store manager called police to report a theft. When police arrived, an officer reported the man was biting off a price tag from an item. the store reported $235.19 in attempted stolen items. nine grams of marijuana was found in the man’s shirt pocket and in a vial that he dropped on the floor. Holmes Beach is policed by HBPD. Street life is based on incident reports and narratives from the BBpd, HBpd and mcSo.

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Stopped for speeding in Bradenton Beach, a Bradenton man was arrested by police for possessing 24 grams of marijuana with an intent to sell the drug. Jose eduardo Barajas,18, also was arrested for possessing paraphernalia and driving without a license in the 700 block of gulf drive South after he sped around the Bridge Street roundabout at Gulf Drive South in a Barajas mazda SuV. BBpd officer Steve masi pulled Barajas over at 11:34 p.m. feb. 28, according to the police report. Barajas told masi he had “about an ounce” of marijuana, no driver’s license and no firearm. in a vehicle search, however, police found a loaded handgun in the glove box. Barajas told masi a friend put the gun in the vehicle, but must have forgotten the weapon. in addition to the gun and marijuana, police found and seized plastic bags and a digital scale. masi interviewed a passenger, who told police Barajas was known to sell marijuana. BBpd took the handgun for safekeeping. the SuV was towed. in addition to the drug charges, Barajas was arrested for driving without a valid license and ticketed for speeding. He was transported and booked at the manatee county jail, where he posted a $2,500 bond and was released. His arraignment is set for 9 a.m. friday, april 5 at the manatee county Judicial center, 1051 manatee ave. W., Bradenton.

You can catch all the news online at islander.org

26 n MARcH 13, 2019 n THE ISLANDER

HB parks committee hears tree, preserve, parking concerns

By ChrisAnn Silver Esformes Islander Reporter a volunteer board in Holmes Beach is gathering and providing input on city projects, including plantings, pathways and preserves. the Holmes Beach parks and Beautification committee is an advisory board that makes recommendations on such matters to the city commission. during their march 6 meeting, committee members heard concerns from several residents and gave updates on continuing plans. first on the agenda was an announcement that beautification projects in three medians on marina drive near gulf drive are nearly finished. Lighting and irrigation recently were installed, muhly grass was planted and the areas were mulched. committee chair Zan fuller said the project will be completed when the curbs are painted with reflective paint, but public works is waiting until the tourist season slows. She said the paint would be funded by the parks and beautification budget. there also was discussion about the poor condition of a christmas tree, a 10-year-old arizona cypress blue-ice tree transplanted from committee member dennis groh’s yard to the western edge of city field, adjacent to city hall. the planting at city field became the subject of controversy. While the tree was donated, it was transplanted at a cost of $2,000, which was not approved by the city commission. The tree is mostly brown and dead, Groh said, but the trunk is alive. He gave it “a 50-50 chance of making it.”

At a meeting to be held later in March, Holmes Beach commissioners will consider plans for Grassy Point Preserve, located on Anna Maria Sound near 30th Street at the north end of Avenue C.

established at the school. details for the event will be announced at the april committee meeting. next on the agenda: grassy point preserve. fuller said a meeting to discuss plans for grassy point preserve, a wetland/upland area at the north end of avenue c near 30th Street, will be held later this month. during the march 6 meeting, Holmes Beach resident Scott macdonald said more boardwalks and a kayak launch could disrupt the preserve’s delicate environment. “the best we could do as a community would be to just protect it,” he said. groh had concerns about a dumpster adjacent to the preserve entrance. He said it is frequently left open, resulting in litter in the park. Soustek said she would look into the trash issue. “if i’m a commissioner until the day i drop dead, there will be no one ever to impede Grassy Point and the wetlands along that area,” she said.

Manatee Avenue prompts citizen parking concerns

This 10-year-old Arizona Cypress blue-ice tree transplanted in December 2018 at the edge of the field adjacent to city hall appears to be failing. Islander Photos: ChrisAnn Silver Esformes He said fertilizer was applied to the tree march 6 to stimulate root growth. He suggested that if the tree is not healthier by the end of April, it should be sheared back in hopes it will regrow. the “homework” from the committee’s february meeting was to review a list of suggested plantings and make recommendations for the planned multiuse path on palm drive from 66th Street to the 8600 block of gulf drive. However, fuller said their path project is on the back burner until the path is completed. City Commissioner Carol Soustek, who attended the march 6 beautification meeting as the city liaison, said she is willing to walk the path block-by-block with committee members, “so we can make the right decisions when the time comes.” additionally, the city plans to seek input from residents who live along the path. the committee then discussed plans for national arbor day, which is friday, april 26. fuller said Keep manatee Beautiful, a nonprofit that organizes cleanups and beautification campaigns, donated trees for past arbor day plantings. This year, she said, KMB doesn’t have the budget to fund a tree, but will participate with the city at a celebration at anna maria elementary School. the city plans to purchase, plant and maintain a tree until it is

Holmes Beach resident monique gutierrez approached the beautification committee with concerns about “no parking” signs recently posted by the city on the south side of State road 64-manatee avenue near gulf drive and the manatee public Beach. the full-time resident said she fears the removal of about 30 parking spots along manatee avenue will add to parking congestion and impact the side street where she owns property. commissioner carol Soustek said the city received complaints that parking along manatee avenue was a safety concern, since people who parked there were backing their vehicles onto the busy state road as they left. She added that parking is not permitted on state road rights of way. police chief Bill tokajer said the city did not add any parking to side streets, since there is no space for additional cars to park. “We are not opening up any additional sidestreet parking,” tokajer said. “there will be no additional cars pushed into that area, because there is no additional parking. the same amount of cars that were there before we stopped (parking on manatee avenue) is the same amount of parking places that are there now.” the next parks and beautification committee meeting will be at 10 a.m. Wednesday, april 3, at city hall, 5801 marina drive.

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THE ISLANDER n MARcH 13, 2019 n 27

Finding a four-leaf clover is said to bring good luck, but don’t confuse the four-leaf clover for a shamrock. Islander Courtesy Photo

By Lisa Neff

Pocketful of good luck

tucked into my wallet is a lucky charm, a metal tag engraved with “WWed?” — which stands for “what would elvis do?” i also carry a chestnut that my aunt gave me a few years ago with the suggestion that I rub the nut whenever I wish for good luck. i don’t panic if i leave my charms at home, but i do like to carry good luck. from time to time, the good luck Neff doesn’t hold, like the occasion when I was on a tour in Ireland several years ago and asked our guide — and everyone within earshot — if he’d ever come across a lucky four-leaf clover. as soon as i spoke up, i realized this dumb american had confused a four-leaf clover and a three-leaf shamrock, which in ireland symbolizes the Holy trinity and in america symbolizes ireland. i guess i’m not the only one to make the mistake.

You might recall the hubbub after guinness advertisements celebrating St. patrick’s day and beer went up in toronto subway stations. the posters contained a maple leaf for canada and a four-leaf clover in place of a shamrock for ireland. the irish times mocked the design: “guinness shamrock ad has one too many ... leaves.” i’ve had the good fortune to find two four-leaf clovers in fields near anna maria island, but have yet to find one on the island. However, i have seen other signs of good luck on the island, including rainbows minus the pots of gold, acorns, turtles, tortoises, crickets, dolphins, bamboo, ladybugs, dragonflies, frogs, eagles, two falling stars and even an elephant. that’s right, an elephant. i can’t claim the pachyderm encounter occurred in natural anna maria island but it was a wild afternoon thanks to the Beach Bistro’s annual St. patrick’s day parade taking place. trouncing along on marina drive in Holmes Beach, leading the parade, was an elephant, symbol of luck, long life, loyalty, wisdom, power, strength and intelligence.

parade organizer Sean murphy admits an elephant has no connection to St. patrick’s day or irish tradition, but claims some irish people who indulge on that day do see elephants in their beer-instilled dreams. once the star of the parade, Judy the elephant has since died, but the tradition of the Beach Bistro’s St. patrick’s day parade continues. Sometimes there are camels. this year’s parade will begin at 4 p.m. Sunday, march 17, departing from the parking lot at marina and Gulf drives and traveling north on Marina and palm drive. murphy said all are invited to join in the celebration — in the parade or along the parade route. participants will include school marching bands, bagpipers from dunedin, the deSoto conquistadors and the anna maria island privateers. my irish eyes will be smiling. and i expect to spot a few shamrocks, if not fourleaf clovers.

Park plans plant sale

a plant sale will take place Saturday, march 16, at the palma Sola Botanical park, 9800 17th ave. nW, Bradenton. the sale will be 8 a.m.-3 p.m. an announcement said the event will feature vendors with plants, antiques, collectibles, artwork and crafts, as well as lunch items, including barbecue. for more information, call the park at 941-77612866.

Scrapes in the sand

Least terns place their eggs in shallow nests — scrapes — on the beach in the spring and summer. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission urges beachgoers to use caution when walking on the shore during nesting season. Shorebirds, when disturbed, may abandon nests. “With last year’s double-whammy of red tide and Hurricane Michael, coastal-nesting birds could be facing a challenging 2019,” Julie Wraithmell, executive director of Audubon Florida, said in a news release. For more information, go online to myfwc.com/ shorebirds. Islander Courtesy Photo: FWC

Museum hosts ‘edible plant’ walk

To eat or not to eat? The Folk School at the Florida Maritime Museum will host Florida master gardener Julie Miller leading an “edible plants walk” on museum property, 4415 119th St. W., Cortez. The walk will be 11 a.m. Wednesday, March 27. The cost to attend is $20. For reservations, go online to www. floridafolkschool.org. For more information, call the museum at 941-708-6120. Islander Courtesy Photo

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28 n MARcH 13, 2019 n THE ISLANDER

Youth flag football winds up, adults play on

By Kevin p. cassidy Islander Reporter the kids’ flag football league at the center of anna maria island concluded its winter season with four championship games march 6. the action kicked off with a semifinal game in the 11-13 age division between no. 1 seed caB cleaning and no. 4 grooms automotive. grooms 33-14 upset victory over caBB propelled them to the finals, where they Cassidy outlasted no. 3 Beach House real estate by a 36-32 score to win the division championship. as expected in the 8-10 division championship, undefeated and no. 1 seed Beach Bums won in easy fashion, rolling to a 38-0 victory over no. 2 seed progressive cabinetry. the championship game in the 14-17 division saw no. 1 seed ace Hardware sew up an undefeated season by edging no. 3 seed Blue Lagoon 21-12. With one week of season remaining in the adult flag football league, Progressive Cabinetry owns the top spot in the standings with a 6-1 record, just ahead of secondplace Lancaster design at 5-2. gulfview Windows holds down third place with a 4-3 record, while Beach House real estate, ugly grouper and Hashmark Sports complete the standings with matching 2-5 records. in action march 7, gulfview Windows defeated Hashmark Sports 27-13, followed by progressive cabinetry’s 42-24 victory over ugly grouper. the final game of the evening saw Lancaster design outscore Beach House 27-13. the adult league playoff action kicks off march 21 with first-round games. the semifinals are march 28 and the championship game is set for april 4.

Adult volleyball standings tight With only two weeks of the regular season to play in the adult volleyball league at the center, it’s anyone’s guess who will take the lead for the upcoming playoffs. after action march 5, planet Stone, ugly grouper and Solid rock construction all have 5-3 records. freckled fin follows with a 3-5 record, while ace Hardware holds down the bottom with a 2-6 record. action march 5 got started with ugly grouper recording a 25-23, 29-27 straight-set victory over ace Hardware. ugly grouper bounced back with a straightset victory to defeat freckled fin 25-15, 25-16 in a second match. Solid rock construction earned a 25-20, 25-7 victory over ace in the third match, while planet Stone rolled to a 25-16, 25-13 victory over fin in the Southernaire Fishing Charters

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AMI Paddlers from Paradise show their spirit March 2 in Apollo Beach, where the team competed in the Mira Bay Dragon Boat Festival. Islander Photo: Courtesy Craig Bradway

Island paddlers compete in Apollo Beach

two teams from the island, having completed two days of training led by melinda and craig Bradway, raced march 2 in the mira Bay dragon Boat festival at apollo Beach. the seniors mixed team of the ami paddlers from Paradise finished fourth and the premiere women’s team won a bronze. ami paddlers include Brenda rose, diane goolsby, evelyn Silverthorn, mileah Hudgins, Lauri fern, patty reed, mandy Boyers, Bonnie Jo Hakala, Judy gidus, Sandy Bouwer, Jill St.

John, Joann Yacono-Brandt, Lynn Kravontka, John Stuckey, andre essington, marty Hurbi, Bill Booher, rick Jensen, connie doughty, cerise Jensen, Lori Stuckey, denise gardner, gail trombley, melinda Bradway and rick granite. ami paddlers next plan to race at the Sarasota international dragon Boat festival Saturday, may 11, at nathan Benderson park, 5851 nathan Benderson circle, Sarasota. for more information about the island paddlers, call melinda Bradway at 941-462-2626.

fourth match of the evening. the night concluded with play gets underway at 9 a.m. Wednesdays and SatSolid rock edging planet Stone 25-19, 25-21. urdays at the anna maria city Hall pits. Warmups begin at 8:45 a.m., followed by random team selection. Horseshoe news everyone is welcome. four teams emerged from pool play and battled for the day’s championship during march 6 horseshoe Key Royale golf news action at the anna maria city Hall horseshoe pits. rain closed the course at the Key royale club in the team of Bob mason and norm good earned a Holmes Beach march 5, canceling the women’s golf, 23-0 shutout victory over tim Sofran and tom florey but the men got in two regular rounds of action, starting in the first semifinal. the second semifinal saw tom march 4 with a modified-Stableford system match. Skoloda and Bob Lee advance with a 23-20, cometim donner carded a plus-5 to win individual from-behind victory over Bob rowley and myles honors by a point over gary avord, Warren Boin, Larry macleod. Skoloda and Lee, the “cardiac kids,” were pippel and ron Vandeman. at it again in the finals, throwing back-to-back double donner and Vandeman also were part of the winringers to stun mason and good with a 22-20 victory. ning team that included gary duncan and Hoyt miller march 9 was the sixth annual pepka memorial combined plus-9. tournament held in honor of the late ron pepka, a longthe men were back on the course march 7 for a time pitcher and group organizer. the double-elimina- nine-hole scramble. the team of Brian comer, marty tion tourney saw the team of Bob Lee and Bob Hawks Hicks and Sam major combined for the win on a advance to the finals with a convincing 21-3 victory 5-under-par 27. over tom Skoloda and Jerry disbrow, who settled for a third-place finish. Sign up now for spring sports in the finals, Lee and Hawks handed Bob mason Registration is underway for two youth programs and adin Shank their first loss with a 21-17 victory to set at the center. up a winner-take-all final. mason and Shank bounced registration is ongoing through march 25 for back to edge Lee and Hawks by a 22-19 score. spring soccer for kids ages 3-17. cost is $10 for members and $126 for nonmembers. player evaluations will start at 6 p.m. tuesday, march 26, for the 8-10 age division, while the 11-13 and 14-17 divisions will have evaluations at 7:30 p.m. there are no evaluations for the 3-5 or 6-7 divisions. games will be tuesday nights starting april 2. the center also is offering a t-ball league for kids 3-6 years of age. cost is $10 for members and $96 for nonmembers and the last day to register is Saturday, april 6. t-ball skills clinics and games will take place at 6:30 p.m. monday nights starting april 8. registration for either sport can be completed online at www.centerami.org or at the center, 407 magnolia ave., anna maria. for more information, all the center at 941-7781908.

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THE ISLANDER n MARcH 13, 2019 n 29

Know weather conditions, best bait for available catch

By capt. danny Stasny Islander Reporter people fishing around anna maria island will find all kinds weather in march. Some days we experience hot, humid weather, with no breeze. other days are springlike with warm sun and cool breezes. and other days are cold, dreary and windy. So anglers need to adapt to be successful on the water. Stasny Bait is equally important to put fish on the table or to grab a trophy photo. on warm, clear days, it’s wise to use live shiners as bait. Spotted seatrout, catch-and-release redfish and snook — all on the feed with these conditions— will readily eat a shiner. on colder, windier days, you might put the cast net away and buy some live shrimp to use as bait. on these days, you might find yourself staying out of the wind and seeking warmer water in canals and around docks. using shrimp in these areas will attract sheepshead, black drum and catch-and-release redfish. i wouldn’t be surprised if you hook a couple of catch-and-release snook, as well. on my Southernaire charters, i’m keeping my options open. With a string of beautiful days, i am working the flats for catch-and-release snook. Live shiners free-lined around mangrove shorelines, shallow flats and other staging points are producing some exceptional action on linesiders for sport fishers. on days when it’s calm and sunny and water temps are in the mid-70s, we are experiencing some of the best catch-and-release snook fishing of the year. Spotted seatrout are receptive in these conditions. over deep grass areas, i’m finding quite a few slot-size fish, as well as gator trout in the mix. on the not so favorable weather days, i’m switching tactics and using live shrimp as bait. i’m also changing locations. on days around the cold fronts, water temperatures drop dramatically, having a negative affect on the catch-and-release snook. in layman’s terms, “when it’s too cold, they ain’t gonna bite.” on these days, i’m moving to calmer waters, such as canals and other areas that provide shelter from the wind. these areas are host to sheepshead, black drum and catch-and-release redfish. all three of these species love to eat shrimp and that’s what i’m offering. no matter what the conditions, there are always fish to be caught. You first need to put a line in the water and find out what’s biting. on a final note, snook and redfish are still closed in our region. the florida fish and Wildlife conservation Commission will hold a meeting in May to reassess the closure but, for now, both species are catch-andrelease. also, keeper spotted seatrout are limited to the

Fishing Charters Capt. Warren Girle

action on sheepshead, flounder, black drum and catchand-release redfish. moving into the gulf of mexico, where mangrove snapper, porgies and Key west grunts are in abundance, live shrimp is working well. tripletail also are taking the bait. capt. david White of anna maria charters is taking advantage of the calm days when the wind is light by fishing offshore structure and hard bottom in the gulf of mexico, where there’s action on african pompano, mangrove snapper, red grouper and amberjack. for bait, White carries a smorgasbord — live pinfish and shiners, as well as frozen baits, such as sardines and squid. moving inshore, White is using live shiners to target catch-and-release snook for trophy photos. capt. Jason Stock is working wrecks offshore when the seas are calm, producing some exceptional mangrove snapper. Live shiners on a bottom rig are attracting snapper 6-9 pounds. and, in case you didn’t know about mangrove snapper, these are big ones. also, while on patrol around the wrecks, Stock is putting his anglers to work on large amberjack, as well as a few kingfish. permit also are making a strong showing on some wrecks. on windy days, he is working inshore for catchand-release snook and redfish. Colby Starrett, visiting from Ohio, shows off his and he’s testing out his new offshore boat. Stay catch — a bonito — caught offshore using white bait tuned. on a March 8 charter. Colby was guided to the fish Send high-resolution photos and fishing reports to by Capt. Warren Girle. fish@islander.org. slot of 15-20 inches — no oversize fish. capt. Warren girle is taking anglers to nearshore structure with good results. using live shrimp as bait is yielding a variety of species, but especially sheepshead. mixed in with the convict fish are the usual suspects — mangrove snapper, Key West grunts, flounder and juvenile grouper. another species being found on nearshore structure are black drum, which are typically caught in shallower areas. the inshore bite also is producing action for girle’s clients around residential docks and canals, where redfish, black drum and an occasional catch-and-release snook are taking their bait. Jim malfese at the rod & reel pier says the sheepshead bite is in full swing. pier fishers using live shrimp as bait are reeling up numerous sheepies in a morning of fishing. While targeting sheepshead, they’re also hooking into flounder and black drum. pompano are being caught by pier fishers casting out jigs tipped with fresh-cut pieces of shrimp. capt. aaron Lowman is guiding his charters to snook along the mangrove shorelines. With the recent arrival of white bait on the flats, his sport anglers are finding the snook active and feeding. Best results are occurring on the warmer days of the week. on cooler days, Lowman is using live shrimp as bait. anglers casting shrimp around rocks and docks are producing

Shark hunters beware. the florida fish and Wildlife conservation commission has changed shark fishing regulations, including the shore-based shark fishery. in recent years, local authorities, in anna maria in particular, have dealt with clashes between beachgoers, crabbers and shore-based shark fishers. rule changes include: • creation of a mandatory, no-cost, annual shorebased shark fishing permit. • those under 16 must meet an educational requirement unless they fish with an adult with a permit. • no chumming when fishing from the beach for any species. • Shore fishers must immediately release any prohibited shark species. • prohibited shark species must remain in the water when fishing from either shore or vessel. • requires use of a device capable of quickly cutting the leader or hook when targeting sharks. • observe new definitions for beach, chumming and shore-based shark fisher.

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30 n MARcH 13, 2019 n THE ISLANDER

isl

A worker saws decking for the entry March 7 at a new sales trailer for One Particular Harbor, 12300 Manatee Ave. W., Perico Island. The current sales office will be leveled to make way for the 131-room Compass Hotel. Work on the hotel is to begin this month. Islander Photo: Sandy Ambrogi

biz

BY sandY aMBrogi

Love wins over all, Italian tours arrive

Island wedding planner makes list She started 2018 with a spread in first for Women magazine. now Karen riley-Love has been named to a list of the 25 best wedding and event planners in the united States. peoplemaven, an online search engine that compiles databases for businesses, entertainment, fashion, home, food and more, tapped riley-Love for inclusion in its â&#x20AC;&#x153;bestâ&#x20AC;? list. riley-Love, who owns anna maria island Wedding association, said those on the list were recommended by their peers. â&#x20AC;&#x153;iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m not sure how i got on it, but iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll take it,â&#x20AC;? riley-Love told the islander march 7. riley-Love also is a freelance photographer for the islander. for more information about her wedding services, call her at 941-527-6000.

Ciao! Islander leading Italian culinary trips Islander Robert Gaglio has a reputation for leading fun and delicious culinary tours. now following his dream, he closed the door on a banking career at age 24 and opened a tour guide business. His italian culinary tours relocated from Sarasota to anna maria. He specializes in tours to italy, exploring cooking in tuscany and Sicily. for more information, contact gaglio at 239-223- The doors are closed March 7 and a dumpster takes up the entrance to Bali Hai Resort, 6900 Gulf 4548 or email italianculinarytours@gmail.com. Drive, Holmes Beach. Developer Shawn Kaleta of Stay busy, islanders. Bradenton Beach purchased the motel, which had been island-owned and family-run since the 1970s, in February. Kaleta is remodeling before opening. Islander Photo: Sandy Ambrogi

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Networking for conservation

Anna Maria Island businesswomen attend the 20th Annual Coastal Conservation Association Florida Manatee County Banquet and Auction Feb. 28. The event was at the Bradenton Area Convention Center, 1 Haben Blvd., Palmetto. Pictured are Grant Hart, left, back row, Liza Kubik, Suzanne Arbanas and Lacy Lloyd Jones. Marcia Mattick, left, seated, Shauna Ruby, Cathy Pizzo and Terri Kinder. Islander Courtesy Photo

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Real estate prices increase for 2018

By Sandy Ambrogi Islander Reporter Whether it is a residence or a rental, property ownership in Manatee County is proving to be a good investment. the realtor association of Sarasota and manatee has new numbers to back that up. the condominium market reported the highest recorded number of sales over the past 10 years, with manatee county condo sales increasing by 11.1 percent in 2018. The number of units sold was down on Anna Maria island, but the bottom line was up on island condominium sales prices for the year. Holmes Beach condo and townhouse closings were up 4.9 percent with 86 units sold. the median sale price was $395,000, up 2.8 percent from 2017. the average sale price climbed 6.9 percent to $491,233. a median sale price is a middle price of listed

Chamber roster grows

the following businesses joined the anna maria island chamber of commerce in february: • american pride electric, Jim arrendondo, Bradenton. • ami april, april Lindell, anna maria. • captain fin’s Sightseeing and Boat tours, capt. michael “finny” Wood and april Wood, Bradenton Beach. • pop digital media group, mia popaja, Bradenton. • Salty mermaid real estate, Liz Blandford, Holmes Beach. • Vinny’s italian Kitchen, Vinny esposito, Holmes Beach. • West coast carpet and tile, Linda Jeanes, Bradenton.

THE ISLANDER n MARcH 13, 2019 n 31

properties — half are listed about the median price and half are below. an average sale price is calculated by adding all the sales prices in a specific area together and dividing that total by the number of properties sold. Bradenton Beach had 51 closed condos in 2018, down 7.3 percent from 2017. the median sale price was $344,000, up 5.8 percent from 2017. the average sale price also was up, 3.8 percent at $391.612. raSm records show three condominium and townhouse closings in anna maria for 2018, down 70 percent from the previous year. the median sale price was $706,810 — up 34.6 percent. the average sale price was $590,603, an increase of 18.8 percent over 2017. the city of anna maria had 99 single-family home sales in 2018, up 33.8 percent from 2017. the median sale price was $1 million, and reflected a drop of 14.2 percent year over year. the average sale price of $1,176,378 reflected a 10.6 percent drop in anna maria prices. Bradenton Beach sellers moved 15 single-family homes in 2018 with a median sales price of $576,000. the average sales price was $974,172, down 6 percent from the previous year. Holmes Beach topped the list with 112 properties sold in 2018. that number was down 11.1 percent from 2017. the median sale price was $724,000 and the average sales price was $946,739, down 1.1 percent. raSm said foreclosures and short sales accounted for 2.2 percent of total closed 2018 sales in manatee and Sarasota counties. The overall volume of sales for Manatee County single-family homes increased by 11 percent to $2.5 billion. the three island cities accounted for $237.l million of the manatee county total of $2.5 billion in singlefamily home sales for 2018. it’s all about location, location, location.

BizCal

coMPiled BY sandY aMBrogi

AMI CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Wednesday, March 13 7:45 a.m. — Early-riser breakfast, Harry’s Grill and Bistro, 9903 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria. Members $8, guests $16. Information: 941778-1541, info@amichamber.org. Wednesday, March 27 5 p.m. — Business Card Exchange, LaPensee Plumbing Pools and Air, 401 Manatee Ave., Holmes Beach. Members $5, guests $10. Information: 941-778-1541, info@ amichamber.org. LONGBOAT KEY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Tuesday, March 19 8:30 a.m. — Chamber 360 New Member and Refresher Breakfast, chamber ofﬁce, 5390 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key. No charge but RSVP is required. Information: 941-383-2466. Wednesday, March 20 11:30 a.m. — 60th Annual Meeting and Awards Luncheon, Zota Beach Resort, 4711 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key. Members $35, guests $45. RSVP required. Information: 941-383-2466, info@ lbkchamber.com. Thursday, March 28 5 p.m. — Business After Hours, Cedar’s Cafe and Tiki Bar, 645 Cedar Court, Longboat Key. $5 members, $10 guests. RSVP requested. Information: 941-383-2466, info@lbkchamber.com.

Islander archive dates to 1992, available 24/7

the islander is an invited participant in the digital newspaper library for the university of florida george a. Smathers Libraries. the collection of Islanders date from the first edition in 1992. it’s all on the uoff digital library site now. it can be found online at ufdc.ufl.edu.

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32 n MARcH 13, 2019 n THE ISLANDER

I S L A N D E R C L A S S I F I E D S ITEMS FOR SALE

FREEBIE ITEMS FOR SALE

GARAGE SALES CONTINUED

TWO SLEEPER SOFAS: Two years old. Garage motor. $50 each. Karl, 941-704-7798. dieter. kurz@bluewin.ch.

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)

CRAFT AND YARD Sale: 8 a.m. until? Baked foods, lunch available. Sandpiper Resort, 2601 Gulf Drive N. Bradenton Beach.

COLEMAN INSTANT CANOPY: 10-by-10-foot, easiest setup, $50. 920-915-4961.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

COMPUTER: DELL, WINDOWS 10, refurbished, $70. 941-756-6728.

HIT AND RUN: On Monday, Feb. 18 (President’s Day) my son was hit by a Mercedes SUV at the corner of Gulf Drive. and Pine Avenue in Anna Maria at about 1:30 p.m. Thankfully, he escaped serious injury. If anyone witnessed or knows anything about this incident, I would be grateful if they contacted the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office and refer to case #2019004679. Thank you, Charles Cowin.

WOOD LOBSTER CRATE: Excellent condition, $55. Tall Florida-style lamp, $20. Call 616-4026093. WHITE WICKER SET: Lamp, mirror, chair, stool, $50, portable massage table, great shape, $50. karentmackay@hotmail.com. MOVING: BABY GRAND piano. Too large. Price negotiable. Call 941-778-2192 or 941-5450915. ANTIQUE PARTNER DESK: All wood, $1,000. See at The Islander office, 3218 E. Bay Drive, Holmes Beach. 941-778-7978.

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

Paradise Improvements

WANTED: WORKOUT DVDs, 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.

941.792.5600

Kitchen and Bath Remodeling Specialist Replacement Doors and Windows

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ANSWERS TO MARCH 13 PUZZLE

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A B O V E A T A L I L L M I O C K R E A R L O A O A T A K E M S A A R B C E A A N T R E E

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M I L J A O A O L E T A T H Y L S H L O E J V I E E J O S S

I S D E A T S O N M E A N S I M J U S L U I S C A A N L I N G I O N S S C L U E B A Y T E R R A G R A V E S S A Y T I E A N S L L I P S G A P S U M P J N E I D A I D E O N T A R T E

L E N T B U U S N T P A E G M O E J L O O I S P A U N S E D

S C R U N C H Y

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LOST AND FOUND FOUND ON GULF Drive: Biker’s tire repair kit. 941-778-8626.

PETS WANTED! FOSTERS, VOLUNTEERS to help Moonracer No Kill Animal Rescue. Please email: moonraceranimalrescue@gmail.com.

TRANSPORTATION

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

BOATS & BOATING

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

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

GARAGE SALES

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

Island real estate sales