The Islander Newspaper E-Edition: Wednesday, May 08, 2019 by The Anna Maria Islander Newspaper

pto puts on ‘pop’ party. 24

tributes to moms. 12-13 Astheworldterns share memories of mom. 6

VOLUME 27, NO. 28

‘fore’ for moonracer. 26

Happy Mother’s Day

MAY 8, 2019 FREE

AM Historic Preservation Board meets for first time. 2 Motions denied in BB Beach Sunshine dispute. 4 Ex-county commissioner appeals Long Bar to high court. 5

The he Best News on Anna Maria Island Since 1992

mayday, mayday.

Op-Ed

www.islander.org

YEARS AGO

The Islander editorial, reader letters. 6

10-20 YearS ago

From the archives. 7

BB pier to get a coat of paint. 8

Meetings

On the government calendar. 8 Make plans, save a date. 10

Happenings

Community announcements. 11 Center in black as fiscal year winds down. 14 AM pier construction on pace. 15 HB prepares to update comp plan. 15

A tugboat pushes the Summit Venture from the wreckage after the May 9, 1980, crash into the Sunshine Skyway Bridge as a small boat in the center searches for survivors. More, pages 18-19. Islander Photo: Gene Page III

cheers, discontent accompany first loggerhead nest on AMI

HB charter reviewers push for finish line. 17

Gathering. 20

Obituaries.

AME readers compete, wildlife visits. 22

Streetlife. 24 Spring squall brings disaster. 27 Sports. 28 Fishing. 29 Tourism. 30 CLASSIFIEDS. 32 NYT crossword. 35

The first loggerhead nest of the 2019 sea turtle nesting season on Anna Maria Island was spotted and marked May 1 at the south end of the Manatee Public Beach in Holmes Beach. The large hole visible on the right was dug and left overnight by beachgoers. More, page 3. Islander Photo: ChrisAnn Silver Esformes

amorous bugs invade ami again

By Sandy Ambrogi Islander Reporter They are not loved much, despite their name. It’s spring and lovebugs are making an appearance. The March fly species first found in Florida in 1949, according to the University of Florida entomology department website, is doing what it does best — loving. Cars, brush, landscaping and roads on Anna Maria Island and the entire Gulf coast of Florida often are crowded with lovebugs when their season begins. The bugs emerge from a pupal stage in large quantities twice yearly — April-May and August-September. And the only thing on Plecia nearctica’s to-do list? Procreation. Evan Siemann, ecology and evolutionary biology professor at Rice University in Houston, said, “Lovebugs only live long enough to eat nectar, copulate, lay eggs and PLEASE SEE LoVEBugs, PAGE 2

2 n MAy 8, 2019 n THE ISLANDER

Anna Maria Historic Preservation Board meets for first time

LoVEBugs CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 die.” The mature black bugs with a red head we see are the result of eggs laid months before in grass thatch and fields, near decaying plant material or under cow manure, according to Wikipedia. About three weeks before the adults take flight, larvae emerge and feast on organic material. Then flight takes place. And as soon as the females emerge, the frenzy begins. Males fly into the female swarms and pick a mate. The phrase, “until death do us part” was never truer than it is for lovebugs. Once a “hookup” happens between the sexes, it’s probably for life. The bugs are seen connected days later, even in flight. Successful lovebug mating can take up to 12 hours, but lovebugs may remain together for several days. Often, males remain coupled with a female to keep other males from mating with her. The average life span for a lovebug is three to five

Preservation Trust, a nonprofit organization with a mission to preserve island history and older properties. Copeland is the cofounder of the Anna Maria Island Historical Society and wife of Commissioner Doug Copeland. McMullen is employed in the city parking and code enforcement department. Wagner is a licensed architect with experience in historic preservation and a part-time resident. The city adopted a preservation ordinance in July 2017 that established the board and called for applicants. By April 2018, city commissioners approved the five appointments suggested by Mayor Dan Murphy. The first order of business for the first meeting: assigning a board chair. Brennan nominated Quinn, who accepted and assumed the role without a vote in lieu of other nomi-

Lovebugs — doing what they do best May 1 — mate on a car sideview mirror in Holmes Beach. The pairs remain coupled even after mating. Islander Photo: Kathy Prucnell days — males live a little longer, but their carcasses are often attached to a flying female after mating while she is searching for a good spot to deposit her 600 or more eggs. After she finds an acceptable moist, organic-rich

nations. Quinn nominated Brennan for deputy chair. She said she enjoyed working with him and he said would accept the nomination, but also nominated McMullen. Members voted 4-1 to appoint Brennan as deputy chair over McMullen. Brennan voted to appoint McMullen. With leadership set, Addy introduced members to Florida’s Government-in-the-sun Sunshine Laws and Public Records Act. City planner Robin Meyer introduced himself as the board’s facilitator and reviewed meeting rules. Murphy said the next meeting will focus on establishing the scope of the board’s mission. The board will meet at 10 a.m. Wednesday, June 5, at city hall, 10005 Gulf Drive. hideout for the offspring and deposits the eggs, she, too, dies. It’s not your imagination that lovebugs are making a beeline for the nearest car. Siemann said they tend to be attracted to car emissions and blacktop roads, though the reason is not known. If a car is covered with lovebug carcasses, it should be washed off as soon as possible. The acidic bodies can damage paint if left for even 24 hours. And, they have been known to be sucked into car engines, damaging radiators and intakes. A server at the Starfish Co. in Cortez was batting away lovebugs from the outdoor countertop and shaking bugs in pairs from paper menus April 29. “Good grief these lovebugs are driving me crazy,” Dana Kamp said. “I’ll be glad when they go.” Lovebugs do come and go quickly. So, don’t worry. Children won’t be asking hard to explain questions about the coupled, erogenous bugs on the car windshields much longer. For now, just wing it with the answers.

Unique Pet Portraits

Composited images printed to stretched canvas

6HOƓHV Sunsets PRINTS FROM

By Ryan Paice Islander Reporter The city of Anna Maria is working on preserving its history. The Anna Maria Historic Preservation Board held its first meeting May 1, after city clerk Leanne Addy swore five people — Jack Brennan, Sissy Quinn, Pat Copeland, Gary McMullen and Thomas Wagner — Brennan onto the board. Brennan is the chair of the Roser Memorial Community Church Food Pantry. He was named to replace former Commissioner Gene Aubry on the board after Aubry moved to Palmetto and ceded his appointment. Quinn is the president of the Anna Maria Island

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THE ISLANDER n May 8, 2019 n 3

Cheers, discontent accompany first loggerhead nest on AMI By ChrisAnn Silver Esformes Islander Reporter Hooray! Tracks on the beach May 1 pointed to a nest. Alas. There was a huge hole left on the beach â&#x20AC;&#x201D; a sure threat to nesting sea turtles. Sea turtles have arrived on Anna Maria Island, seeking clean, flat, dark beaches to lay their nests. The first loggerhead nest of 2019 was spotted May 1 at the south end of the Manatee Public Beach in Holmes Beach. But the nest was found next to a hole in the sand measuring about 5 feet in diameter â&#x20AC;&#x201D; large enough to possibly trap or deter the nesting female on its way to lay its eggs or on its return to the Gulf of Mexico. Some beachgoers assumed the hole was the sea turtle nest, according to Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring executive director Suzi Fox. Sea turtle nesting season officially kicked off May 1, which signals AMITW volunteers hit the beach just after sunrise looking for signs of nesting activity and, later in the season, signs that hatchlings emerged from nests. Fox said holes in the sand are dangerous to sea turtles and people. She said turtle watch volunteers have been injured on morning walks by stumbling into holes on the beach. In March 2018, following the spring visitor influx, a hole found on the beach was so large that the beachcleaning tractor became stuck and had to be towed. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Holes, especially on Manatee Public Beach, are one of the biggest problems we face on the beach during nesting season,â&#x20AC;? Fox said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We understand that people are in vacation-mode and having fun, but they need to remember to take care of our natural resources and fill in holes at the end of the day.â&#x20AC;? Holmes Beach code enforcement officer Robin Evangalisto said May 1 that her office patrols the beach during the season, filling in holes and removing beach

gear, such as tents, canopies, chairs and rafts left on the beach after sunset. â&#x20AC;&#x153;People usually just donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t know what they are doing could be harmful,â&#x20AC;? she said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Usually they are happy to comply, once we explain.â&#x20AC;? The code enforcement officers in Holmes Beach, as well as Anna Maria and Bradenton Beach, impound equipment left on the beach, which the owner can retrieve upon payment of a fee, $75 in Holmes Beach and $100 in Anna Maria and Bradenton Beach. In 2018, Anna Maria amended its nuisance ordinance to state that, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Digging a hole in the beach sand so as to create a hazard to other beach users or wildlife is deemed a nuisance and in violation of this code of ordinances.â&#x20AC;? Violation of the ordinance in Anna Maria carries a fine of $100. Some beachfront cities, including Panama City Beach, have ordinances banning metal tools more than 14 inches long on the beach. Violators in Panama City Beach receive a verbal warning and then a $25 fine.

Holmes Beach residents and frequent beachwalkers Scott and Vicki McIntyre look over the tracks and the first loggerhead nest of the 2019 sea turtle nesting season near the picnic area at the south end of the Manatee Public Beach in Holmes Beach. Vicki McIntyre is The Islander office assistant.

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None of the three island municipalities have regulations prohibiting tools on the beach, but Fox said she plans to approach the Anna Maria, Bradenton Beach and Holmes Beach commissions to see if they would consider adopting such an ordinance. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Large industrial shovels should be treated like alcohol or any other problematic elements that donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t belong on the beach,â&#x20AC;? Fox said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;If it takes an ordinance to fix this, then that might be the next step.â&#x20AC;? Call code enforcement to report unattended property or large holes on the beach. City of Anna Maria code enforcement â&#x20AC;&#x201D; 941-7086130, ext. 139 or ext. 129. City of Bradenton Beach code enforcement â&#x20AC;&#x201D; 941-778-1005, ext. 280. City of Holmes Beach code enforcement â&#x20AC;&#x201D; 941708-5800, ext. 247. For more information on nesting season, contact Fox at suzifox@gmail.com or 941-778-5638. To report sick, injured, entangled or dead sea turtles or shorebirds contact the FWC Wildlife Alert Hotline at 888-404-3922.

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4 n MAy 8, 2019 n THE ISLANDER

Bradenton Beach defendant’s motions denied in Sunshine suit

By ChrisAnn Silver Esformes Islander Reporter The hearing proceeded but the motions were denied. “This, too, was not a close call,” Judge Ed Nicholas said during a May 3 hearing at the Manatee County Judicial Center, as he delivered his verdict on the fourth in a series of denied motions. The motions were made by defendant John Metz in a lawsuit filed August 2017 by Bradenton Beach ex-Mayor Jack Clarke and joined by the city against six now-former board members, including Metz. The lawsuit alleges Metz, Reed Mapes, Tjet Martin, Patty Shay and Bill and Rose Vincent — all members of city boards at the time — violated Florida’s Government-in-the-Sunshine Laws by discussing city matters at a meeting of the now-defunct grass-roots group Concerned Neighbors of Bradenton Beach. Metz, a former planning and zoning board member, and the only defendant represented by an attorney, filed motions to compel completion of a deposition given March 20 by city attorney Ricinda Perry and to disqualify her as co-counsel in the lawsuit. Additionally, Metz filed a motion to compel answers to interrogatories and for the award of his attorney’s fees, as well as a motion for production of documents from the city. During the May 3 hearing, Jodi Ruberg of Kirk Pinkerton P.A. of Sarasota, representing Metz, said that more time was needed to depose Perry, since she is a “very important person in this trial, because her affidavit expresses legal and fact opinions.” She said the defense would like another full day to depose Perry. Attorney Robert Watrous of Sarasota, representing Clarke and the city, said the defense already spent nearly six hours deposing Perry, adding that attorney Thomas Shults asked Perry irrelevant questions during the March 20 deposition and should have more wisely used his time. Additionally, Watrous said, when asked for more time to depose Perry, the plaintiffs agreed to three more hours. “In this situation, I think the reason they want to set another entire full day of deposition is because of harassment,” Watrous said, adding that Metz has publicly made derogatory comments about Perry’s professional abilities and has filed five lawsuits against the city in four years. Nicholas ordered that Perry be required to sit for three more hours of deposition. “Mr. Shults is simply going to have to do the best that he can to focus his questions a bit more pointedly,” Judge Ed Nicholas presides May 8 at the Manatee County Judicial Center, 1051 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton. Islander Photos: ChrisAnn Silver Esformes

Parks committee plans special meeting

Holmes Beach resident Bonnie Narcisi speaks May 1 with parks and beautification committee member Allyson Gilles, chair Zan Fuller and members Susan Anderson and Carol Hebden during a brief meeting at city hall, 5801 Marina Drive. The meeting was to be the committee’s last until October, but a special meeting involving city engineer Lynn Burnett is planned for May, but was not set as of press time for The Islander. Islander Photo: ChrisAnn Silver Esformes

Bradenton Beach city attorney Ricinda Perry, left, paralegal Michael Barfield, attorney Robert Watrous, attorney Jodi Ruberg of Kirk Pinkerton P.A. and defendant John Metz prepare May 3 before a hearing at the Manatee County Judicial Center for a civil suit involving the city of Bradenton Beach and former Mayor Jack Clarke. Clarke and five of the defendants and former Mayor Bill Shearon are in the gallery. the judge said. He also denied Metz’s request for compensation of his attorney’s fees. Ruberg’s argument to disqualify Perry as co-counsel during trial included that Perry didn’t file to be co-counsel with Watrous on the suit until nine months after the suit began, on May 9, 2018, to participate in a pretrial hearing that day. Ruberg also cited state statutes providing that Perry can’t “be both an advocate and a witness,” unless the matter being considered is uncontested or disqualification would create a hardship for the client — neither of which apply. She said Perry will be called as a fact witness to testify about agenda items that were “reasonably foreseeable” to come before the P&Z and other city boards, as well as city documents, including the land development code and comprehensive plan. Additionally, she cited statutes that state an attorney serving as counsel and witness could “confuse or mislead” the judge and jury. “She should not have the benefit of testifying as a fact witness, but then the benefit of also sitting at legal counsel’s table,” Ruberg said in closing. In rebuttal, Watrous said Perry would not be questioning witnesses or otherwise conduct litigation during the trial, but would have a seat at the counsel table to assist Watrous with the suit. Nicholas said it is unusual for an attorney representing a particular party to be called as a witness in the matter. He said if it were a jury trial, he could understand Ruberg’s argument that it might be difficult for a jury to distinguish between Perry as a witness or as counsel, but since it is nonjury, confusion is not an issue. He denied the motion to disqualify Perry as cocounsel in the lawsuit. Metz also motioned to compel answers to interrogatories posed to the city but that remained insuf-

ficiently answered, according to Metz. Watrous argued that the plaintiff had provided sufficient answers to the interrogatories, that the requested information could be found by the defense in documents already provided to them and further disclosure would violate attorney-client privilege. “They are asking us to do their job and asking me to give a list of questions in the trial,” Watrous said. “That’s improper.” Nicholas agreed with Watrous that relevant information, including amended answers to interrogatories filed by the city were sufficient, and denied Metz’s motion to compel. The final motion Ruberg argued was a request for production of the full transcript, including the clientattorney portion — for a Sept. 6, 2017, shade meeting — and award of attorney fees dealing with the request. A shade meeting allows a government body to privately meet with counsel to discuss litigation strategy, settlement negotiations or expenditures. The meeting is publicly noticed and is opened and closed in an open meeting, with motions made during the closing session. According to state statute, the private portion of the meeting is transcribed by a court reporter and made available to the public after the case is closed. Ruberg claimed that the meeting was not noticed properly since Watrous’ name wasn’t listed on the written notice of the meeting, just the title of “special litigation counsel.” She also said since the meeting involved the city — a public entity — the information from the shade meeting, including the private discussion, is public record. Watrous responded that there was a roll call at the beginning and conclusion of the public portion of the meeting, wherein he identified himself as the special counsel, which was included in the transcript provided to the defendants. “The notice is proper, the announcements were proper, this is a non-veiled attempt to invade attorneyclient privilege, one of the most sacrosanct privileges recognized by the law,” he said. Nicholas agreed with Watrous and denied Metz’s motion to compel and award costs. “The request for the transcript of the shade meeting is not well-taken and is denied,” Nicholas said. Depositions for the lawsuit are set to continue through June, with a trial planned for mid-July. As of May 3, the lawsuit has cost the city more than $200,000.

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The Islander welcomes news of the milestones in readers’ lives — weddings, anniversaries, travels and other events. Send notices and photographs with detailed captions — along with complete contact information to news@islander.org.

THE ISLANDER n MAy 8, 2019 n 5

Ex-county commissioner appeals Long Bar standing to high court By Kathy Prucnell Islander Reporter Joe McClash is taking his fight against a mitigation bank permit to the Florida Supreme Court. The permit — issued by an April 2018 order signed by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection — brought developers Carlos Beruff and Larry Lieberman halfway to an approved mitigation bank on a 2-mile stretch of mangrove-lined coastline in Sarasota Bay near Cortez. The bank also needs federal approval. The former Manatee County commissioner filed a notice with the high court April 26 to invoke its review and a week later supported it with a 10-page brief challenging the wetland permit issued to Long Bar Pointe LLLP. “It’s worth the fight,” McClash said May 2 as he readied his brief to be filed. McClash’s bid to the high court follows the April 5 dismissal by the 1st District Court of Appeal for lack of standing, saying he failed to show how the DEP order “adversely affected his interest.” In its decision, the court cited a 2010 1st District case, Martin County Conservation Alliance v. Martin County, as well as a state law limiting judicial review to parties “adversely affected by a final agency action.” The Martin County case, according to McClash, is not on point — that the petitioners failed to present any evidence about their environmental interest to be affected by a planned amendment. McClash said, “I did everything I was legally obligated to do to have standing.” He added, “It not only hurts me. It’s also about maintaining the citizen’s rights to access the courts.” According to the McClash brief, four appellate cases “directly and expressly conflict” with the appellate court’s decision against him, which also runs afoul of the policy in the Florida Constitution, Article II, Section 7, “to conserve and protect natural resources.” McClash maintains legal precedent supports a

Joe McClash, a former Manatee County commissioner, recreational boater and wildlife observer, fishes in August 2017 near Long Bar Point, where Aqua by the Bay developers obtained a permit to operate a mitigation bank. McClash is fighting the state’s approval of the mitigation bank. Islander File Photo: Kathy Prucnell forward-looking standard for standing. In his brief, McClash pointed to expert witnesses, photos and his testimony about how the permit would harm him as a fisher, crabber, boater and wildlife observer at a two-day administrative hearing in December 2017. He also contends the DEP improperly awarded the developers mitigation credits for the posting of informational buoys in the seagrasses in the bay from boaters who must enter sensitive areas to read signs. McClash, Suncoast Waterkeeper and FISH initially brought the administrative appeal that culminated in Judge D.R. Alexander’s recommendation for the DEP

permit that denied McClash standing, saying his concern for a regional ecosystem that would trade wetland destruction for the improperly allocated credits was too speculative. After the hearing, the nonprofits dropped out of the litigation and McClash took the issue pro se. He is continuing his own representation — without an attorney — in the high court proceedings. The 260.08-acre mitigation bank is part of a 523acre site approved for development by the Manatee County Commission in October 2017. Manatee County approved Aqua By the Bay for 2,384 multi-family units, 510 single-family homes, in 16 residential buildings, nine of them 10 stories high, and an unknown number of three- to eight-story buildings and 78,000 square feet of commercial space. No signs of development, however, were observed the week beginning April 28. To finance the mitigation activities, the DEP permit assigned the bank 18.01 credits, which roughly translates to 1 credit per acre of mitigation. The credits sell to developers when regulators require the exchange for wetland destruction elsewhere at $100,000-$200,000 per credit. In addition to the DEP permit, the developers must obtain approval from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. In September 2016 and again in May 2017, the Corps denied the Beruff-Lieberman plans — citing concerns including the proximity of the residential development, impact to seagrass and an oyster reef, as well as mangrove trimming. As of May 2, the Corps has no application pending from the developers, according to the Corps’ public information officer Nakeir Nobles. Long Bar Pointe LLLP and the DEP attorneys are expected to respond to the McClash bid for high court review sometime in May or June. The attorneys did not respond to The Islander’s requests for comment at press time.

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6 n MAy 8, 2019 n THE ISLANDER

Opinion

Our

Memories

I hope your thoughts and memories surrounding your mom are as sweet as mine. My mother remarried when I was 5 and we moved with her new husband to his hometown in Illinois. She was forever homesick, and wrote daily to either her mother, grandmother or aunt in Virginia. Soon enough, I learned my mother thought of Illinois as a “Godforsaken prairie.” I shared her feelings for the vast flat land of corn and cold winters and escaped to Florida with my two young children. I followed her calling to Anna Maria Island, to my place on the beach in 1975. I remembered a photo Mom sent me shortly after she moved to Bradenton in 1972 of the Manatee Public Beach, where she wrote on the side in the small white margin: “My beach.” She died a few months later. Fast forward to the past few years and, as I returned to Virginia to visit family, I found myself homesick — something I had never experienced. Going back to Portsmouth helped me realize I’d been nostalgic for “home” for many years. I just didn’t know it. Staying in my uncle’s home was like a trip back in time. He lived there, after all, some 77 years. And since he passed, my cousin Janie has been clearing drawers and closets that had been holding memories — photos — of our four generations, her mom (my Aunt Hazie) my Mom, grandmother and great-grandmother, and she’s sharing her treasures with me. What a delight to see the photos from long ago, some before I was born, of the four most important women in my life. My four moms. They were treasures. I love the memories of my childhood with them in Virginia and especially our trips to the beach. As far as memories go, this week, many of us are recalling the day the Sunshine Skyway Bridge fell. In 1980, I lived near the Rod & Reel Pier and as I headed to work after a squall, I flipped on the radio as I simultaneously watched three people tugging at a pair of binoculars by the Anna Maria City Pier. “Skyway disaster! Skyway disaster!” The radio announcer was shouting and repeating himself. Golf tourney hits high mark I waved to Paul Roat, reporter/photographer for the former Islander newspaper, in the car ahead of me Moonracer No Kill Animal Rescue hosted a golf to stop and told him what I’d heard. tournament fundraiser April 27. He took off to grab film at the newspaper office on We would like to thank everyone who golfed and Pine Avenue, telling me, “Call everyone.” participated in any way to help with this effort for You can share your recollection on our website, homeless animals in need. islander.org, with our story recalling May 9, 1980. You make a difference. It was a day to remember. — Bonner Joy The event was a big success and we raised more than $8,500 to help the pets. An enthusiastic thank-you to event organizer and Moonracer Rescue vice president Toni Lyon. Many tail wags and much appreciation for the MAY 8, 2019 • Vol. 27, No. 28 support of our sponsors, including The Islander news▼ Publisher and Editor paper, Toni Lyon and Kendra Presswood, Joey and Bonner Joy, news@islander.org Rhonda Poklemba and many local businesses. ▼ Editorial We are so grateful to hole-in-one sponsor John Lisa Neff, editor, lisa@islander.org Sandy Ambrogi, sandy@islander.org Metz and for the signs and banners created by SteamJoe Bird, editorial cartoonist Designs. Kevin Cassidy, kevin@islander.org Lisa Williams, Moonracer No Kill Animal Hello, bird friends Jack Elka, jack@jackelka.com ChrisAnn Silver Esformes, chrisann@islander.org Rescue Indigo buntings — seen in large numbers in the state Brook Morrison, brook@islander.org Ryan Paice, ryan@islander.org September to October and April to May — perch in Kathy Prucnell, kathyp@islander.org No to expansion for cafe a yard in Holmes Beach earlier this spring. Holmes ▼ Contributors I have been a visitor to Anna Maria Island once or Beach resident Laurie Murdock took the photo Jesse Brisson twice a year since the early 1990s. Karen Riley-Love and wrote to The Islander, “In late April, we have Capt. Danny Stasny, fish@islander.org Years ago, I was sad to see the Gulf Drive Cafe had many beautiful indigo buntings visiting our ▼ Advertising Director transition from a decent diner to a tacky eyesore. yard. The juveniles are the blue-and-brown ones.” Toni Lyon, toni@islander.org And now I am sad to read that the business again Islander Photo: Laurie Murdock ▼ Office Staff Lisa Williams, manager wishes to expand. Vicki McIntyre This business does not fit into the old Florida characcounting@islander.org Have your say acter of the island. classifieds@islander.org The Islander accepts original letters of up to 250 subscriptions@islander.org Please, deny the expansion request. ▼ Distribution words and reserves the right to edit for grammar and Kelly Blumer, Anchorage, Alaska Urbane Bouchet length. Letters must include name, address and a conJudy Loden Wasco tact phone number (for verification). Email: news@ Ross Roberts (All others: news@islander.org) islander.org. Anonymous letters will not be printed. Single copies free. Quantities of ﬁve or more: 25 cents each. Readers also may comment online. ©1992-2019 • Editorial, sales and production offices: Also, The Islander has an active Facebook com3218 E. Bay Drive, Holmes Beach FL 34217 munity. To join the conversation, “like” The Islander WEBSITE: www.islander.org WWW.ISLANDER.ORG PHONE 941-778-7978 toll-free fax 1-866-362-9821 on Facebook.

Opinion

Your

THE ISLANDER n MAy 8, 2019 n 7

Onboard the Bee Line Ferry

Before a Sunshine Skyway Bridge spanned Tampa Bay, connecting Pinellas and Manatee counties, the Bee Line Ferry service moved automobiles — and people — across Tampa Bay. The photograph is from the 1940s, in the decade before the construction of the Skyway. Islander Photo: Courtesy Manatee County Public Library Digital Collection

Good deeds

Volunteer opportunities

We’re encouraging a kinder, gentler attitude toward guests, visitors, vacationers and all who come to love Anna Maria Island. Our theme, “We’re Glad You’re Here,” originated in the 1980s with a restaurant trade group. We hope everyone feels welcome on AMI. — The Islander

10&20 years ago In the headlines: May 5, 1999

Holmes Beach commissioners accepted a bid of $22,900 from Cross Environmental Services to demolish the former city hall and police station after deciding against converting the city office building into a community center. Manatee County officials and representatives of the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office denied knowledge of who bulldozed a homeless camp behind an old Cortez schoolhouse following a homicide there two months earlier. Anna Maria commissioners voted 3-2 to deny Mayor Chuck Shumard’s appointment of Horace Knox to the vacant city clerk position because they had not been allowed to review his resume. Shumard agreed to start the review process over again and to submit resumes to commissioners.

In the headlines: May 6, 2009

Looking for volunteer opportunities on or around Anna Maria Island? These organizations are seeking help: The Roser Food Bank needs donations of cash and nonperishable food. The pantry is administered by Roser Memorial Community Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Information: 941-778-0414. Moonracer Animal Rescue seeks volunteers to offer foster and forever homes for rescued animals. Information: 941-345-2441. Anna Maria Island Historical Society museum seeks docents, 402 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Information: 941-778-0492. Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce seeks volunteers to assist at the office and visitor information center. Information: 941-778-1541.

Pine Avenue Restoration invited the public to pitch ideas for using the six vacant lots near the intersection of Pine Avenue and North Bay Boulevard. The city and PAR agreed the site was not suited for a motel. A fire at Lightner Motors on Cortez Road injured one man and destroyed the recreational vehicle he was working on, as well as damaged three other RVs. Holmes Beach commissioners decided to take another bite at the outdoor dining ordinance after Commissioner Pat Morton raised concerns about the procedure, which required restaurants to obtain a special review from the board of adjustment. The weekly archives for The Islander are online at ufdc.uﬂ.edu.

Visit www.islander.org for the best news on AMI.

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Bradenton Beach CRA agrees to paint pier wood, railings By Ryan Paice Islander Reporter A paint job is on the to-do list for the Historic Bridge Street Pier in Bradenton Beach. Community redevelopment agency members voted 7-0 May 1 to accept a $10,900 bid from Largo-based L&T Brothers to paint the pier structures and railings white. The bid was the lowest of three submitted. Concrete Painting and Restoration bid $30,850 and Artistry Painting bid $62,925. Emily Anne Smith’s vision for the district includes painting city structures white with red roofs. The pier project involves cleaning and painting exterior wood railings, the clock tower, gazebos, rafters, posts and fascia under the decking. The CRA motion also directed city staff to attain a cost estimate from L&T Brothers for painting trolley shelters in the district, which is bordered by Cortez Road, Sarasota Bay, Fifth Street South and the Gulf of Mexico. The city will use PPG Industries’ Permanizer exterior acrylic paint, which is covered by a 10-year warranty, said to be safe for marine life, durable and resistant to ultraviolet light, mildew and algae. Public works manager Tom Woodard said at the meeting that he didn’t support painting the pier because it would require additional maintenance. CRA members, including Mayor John Chappie, city commissioners and two appointees, did not respond to his comments. Commissioner Jake Spooner said the CRA could purchase starboard material for $4,800 to protect the top rail from damage by people cutting bait and cleaning fish. Currently the pier has cutting boards of the same material spaced along the top rail. CRA appointee Ed Chiles, a local restaurateur, said he would like to examine the starboard cutting boards before committing to funding the top rail because he’s concerned the material might stain. The second half of the project involves collecting

pigments and a clear sealant would maintain the color for five years. Commissioner Ralph Cole, also the CRA chair, said he is concerned that if a coating is applied to the metal roof, the warranty on the roof would be voided. Mayor John Chappie said he needed more information before reaching a decision. “I like the red,” he said. “I like the idea of the red, but I like the metal roofs, as well.” CRA members directed Smith to return to their next meeting with three bids for coating the roof red.

BB to replace city hall trolley stop

Emily Anne Smith, hired by the Bradenton Beach Community Redevelopment Agency to create an aesthetic vision for the district, presents CRA members May 1 with three bids for the materials and labor to paint the Historic Bridge Street Pier. Islander Photo: Ryan Paice three bids for painting the pier roof red. Smith brought Jarred Dluginski, a sales associate from Nationwide Protective Coating, to the meeting to talk about red roof coatings. Dluginski said a coating could come with a 20-year warranty, as well as fade-resistant pigments so the red wouldn’t fade to orange. Red, he said, is the most difficult color to protect against fading, but fade-resistant

Improvements are coming to a trolley stop outside Bradenton Beach City Hall. Community redevelopment agency members voted 7-0 May 1 to issue a request for proposals to construct a Gulf Drive trolley shelter outside city hall based on Emily Anne Smith’s conceptual drawings. The project involves replacing a blue metal shelter that seats two people with a white wooden structure with a red roof to seat 10 people. The CRA hired Smith to create an aesthetic vision for the district. The color scheme is her choice for a recurring visual theme for city buildings and structures. Mayor John Chappie said the city would provide plans for the stop to MCAT for review and consideration before replacing the shelter. Commissioner Ralph Cole, also the CRA chair, praised Smith’s design. Commissioner Jake Spooner suggested lighting the stop from the inside for those sheltered and to illuminate the sidewalk. — Ryan Paice

Bradenton Beach saves on ﬂoating dock piles, leaves liaison post empty

By Ryan Paice Islander Reporter The Bradenton Beach Community Redevelopment Agency’s floating dock project is moving forward despite losing its facilitator and staff liaison. Commissioner Ralph Cole, also CRA chair, said in a May 2 interview with The Islander that the agency would not fill the dock facilitator and liaison post vacated by police Chief Sam Speciale, who stepped down April 18. Speciale’s email to the mayor and commissioners cited “a recent shift in the duties of individuals has put the direction of this project in a direction I do not agree with,” as reason for his decision. He refused to comment further in an April 30 interview with The Islander. “It’s to the point where it’s going to happen — barring someone gets struck by lightning,” Cole said. “He’s brought it to the point where it is now.” Regardless of project leadership, the city continues

Bradenton Beach passes residency ordinance

Stricter residency requirements are in place for elected officials in Bradenton Beach. City commissioners voted 4-0 May 2 to approve amendments to an ordinance requiring elected officials to maintain a permanent residence within the city. Vice Mayor Jake Spooner was absent with excuse. The ordinance defines a permanent residence as a “principal establishment to which, whenever absent, he or she has the intention of returning.” A permanent residence cannot be used for commercial purposes, such as transient lodging. Elected officials who fail to maintain a continuous permanent residence in the city will be removed from office, according to the revised ordinance. — Ryan Paice

to work on replacing the dock at the Historic Bridge Street Pier after nearly two years of delays. CRA members voted 7-0 May 1 to purchase composite piles and rollers for the dock for $34,000 — $12,000 less than a $46,000 offer the city received first from an unnamed vendor. Treasurer Shayne Thompson said the new deal costs less than the first original quote because the city deemed unnecessary the pile sleeves specified to protect the material in transit. The CRA also voted 7-0 to rent a forklift for four weeks to load and unload dock parts for $2,400 to be used by Hecker Construction. Hecker is the contractor the city chose to deliver the dock and install the dock. City attorney Ricinda Perry said Eric Shaffer, a project manager at Hecker, said Hecker needed the

Meetings

forklift for two weeks, but said the cost of renting it for two weeks is the same as for four weeks. Cole also updated CRA members on the permitting process for the dock. He said the Florida Department of Environmental Protection signed off on the footprint for the dock in its permit, and the Environmental Science Associates permit for the dock is complete. The next step is to acquire Manatee County commissioners’ approval to use the county-owned North Coquina Boat Ramp for Hecker to load and launch a barge. Cole said he contacted Charlie Hunsicker, director of the county parks and natural resources department, about using the boat ramp, and the matter will go before the county commission Tuesday, May 21.

West Manatee Fire Rescue Anna Maria City May 21, 5 p.m., commission (workshop). May 9, 6 p.m., city commission. May 21, 6 p.m., commission. May 14, 4 p.m., planning and zoning. WMFR administration building, 6510 Third Ave. May 15, 5:30 p.m., special magistrate. W., Bradenton, wmfr.org. May 23, 6 p.m., city commission. Anna Maria City Hall, 10005 Gulf Drive, 941- Manatee County 708-6130, cityofannamaria.com. May 21, 9 a.m., commission. May 28, 1:30 p.m., commission (budget). Bradenton Beach May 30, 9 a.m., commission (budget). May 9, 1 p.m., department heads. Administration building, 1112 Manatee Ave. W., May 16, noon, commission. Bradenton, 941-748-4501, mymanatee.org. May 21, 10 a.m., commission. May 22, 1 p.m., planning and zoning. of interest Bradenton Beach City Hall, 107 Gulf Drive N., May 20, 9:30 a.m., Sarasota/Manatee Metropoli941-778-1005, cityofbradentonbeach.org. tan Planning Organization board, Bayfront Community Center, 803 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. Holmes Beach May 21, 2 p.m., Barrier Island Elected Officials, May 14, 6 p.m., city commission. Holmes Beach City Hall. May 28, 6 p.m., city commission. May 27, most government offices will be closed Holmes Beach City Hall, 5801 Marina Drive, for Memorial Day. 941-708-5800, holmesbeachﬂ.org. Send notices to calendar@islander.org and news@islander.org.

THE ISLANDER n MAy 8, 2019 n 9

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(888) 508-4680 | OPHMintoUSA.com | 12340 Manatee Ave. West, Bradenton, FL 34209 The facilities and amenities described and depicted are proposed, but not yet constructed. Photographs are for illustrative purposes only and are merely representative of current development plans. Development plans, amenities, facilities, dimensions, speciﬁcations, prices and features depicted by artists’ renderings or otherwise described herein are approximate and subject to change without notice. © Minto Communities, LLC 2019. All rights reserved. Content may not be reproduced, copied, altered, distributed, stored or transferred in any form or by any means without express written permission. One Particular Harbour and the One Particular Harbour logo are trademarks of Margaritaville Enterprises, LLC and are used under license. Minto and the Minto logo are trademarks of Minto Communities, LLC and/or its affiliates. 2019. CGC 1519880.

10 n MAy 8, 2019 n THE ISLANDER

Vacation Home Staging and Redesign

The Islander Calendar ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

941-705-2572

ON ANNA MARIA ISLAND

Thursday, May 9 2-3 p.m. — Hawaiian music, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341. Friday, May 10 5:30-7:30 p.m. — Reception for Joanna Karpay’s “Land and Sea, Artscapes of Florida,” Island Gallery West, 5368 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6648.

Saturday, May 11 9 a.m. — Manatee County Parks and Natural Resources Department’s Mollusks Monthly, Bayfront Park, 316 N. Bay Blvd., Anna Maria. Information: 941-742-5923. Tuesday, May 14 10 a.m. — Manatee County Parks and Natural Resources Department’s Stroller Strolls, Lefﬁs Key, Gulf Drive South, Bradenton Beach. Information: 941-742-5757.

Through May 12, The Island Players present “Present Laughter,” 10009 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria. Fee applies. Information: 941778-5755. Throughout May, Joanna Karpay exhibits “Land and Sea, Artscapes of Florida,” Island Gallery West, 5368 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6648. LOOKING AHEAD ON AMI May 18, Anna Maria Island Privateers Rum Tasting party, Holmes Beach. Oct. 19, Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce Bayfest, Anna Maria. OFF ANNA MARIA ISLAND

ANY PURCHASE OF $30 OR MORE.

Good now thru May 14. One coupon per person. Not valid on previous purchases. (excludes ) Closed Mother’s Day.

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LADIES’ AND MEN’S RESORTWEAR S&S PLAZA, HOLMES BEACH, 941-778-4505

Signature ISLANDER gifts

NEW! Mugs, $10 each. All-cotton AMI tote bags, $5. Plus white and tie-dye “More-Than-a-MulletWrapper” T-shirts, $10-$15, and AMI stickers, $2. Come shop at 3218 E. Bay Drive, Holmes Beach, sandwiched between Walgreens and the bagel cafe!

AMI Chamber of Commerce 2017 Best Business of the Year

Friday, May 10 6-7 p.m. — Jazz Night at the NEST, Robinson Preserve expansion, 10299 Ninth Ave. NW, Bradenton. Information: 941-7425923. ONGOING OFF ANNA MARIA ISLAND Through July 15, “National Geographic Photo Ark,” the Bishop Museum of Science and Nature, 201 10th St. W., Bradenton. Fee applies. Information: 941-746-4131. Through Dec. 31, “Always Ready” U.S. Coast Guard exhibit, Florida Maritime Museum, 4415 119th St. W., Cortez. Information: 941-708-6120. Second and fourth Saturdays, 1-4 p.m., Music on the Porch, Florida Maritime Museum, 4415 119th St. W., Cortez. Information: 941-708-6120. Second and fourth Thursdays, 2-4 p.m., Shanty Singers, Florida Maritime Museum, 4415 119th St. W., Cortez. Information: 941-708-6120. LOOKING AHEAD OFF AMI

LOOKING AHEAD ON AMI June 1, Snooks Adams’ Kids Day, Anna Maria. ONGOING OFF AMI

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ONGOING ON ANNA MARIA ISLAND Wednesdays and Mondays, 12:30-3:30 p.m., pickleball, Center of Anna Maria Island, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria. Fee applies. Information: 941-7781908. Wednesdays and Fridays, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m., pickleball, Center of Anna Maria Island, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria. Fee applies. Information: 941-7781908. Wednesdays and Saturdays, 9 a.m., horseshoes pitched, Anna Maria City Hall, 10005 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria. Information: 941-7086130. Thursdays, Saturdays and Tuesdays, 10:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m., Legends Tennis, Center of Anna Maria Island, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria. Fee applies. Information: 941-778-1908. Thursdays-Saturdays and Tuesdays, 10:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m., pickleball, Center of Anna Maria Island, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria. Fee applies. Information: 941-778-1908. Most Fridays, 11:30 a.m. or 1 p.m. (call for times) mahjong games, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341. Mondays, noon, bridge, Roser Memorial Community Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Information: 941-778-0414. Mondays, AMI Dragon Boat Fun and Fitness Club, time depends on tides, 417 63rd St., Holmes Beach. Information: 941462-2626. Mondays and Thursdays, 1 p.m., mahjong, Center of Anna Maria Island, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria. Information: 941-7781908. Most Tuesdays, 11:30 a.m., mahjong games and instruction for beginners, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341.

OFF AMI May 18, Katt Hefner “Last Dance: A Tribute to Donna Summer” concert, Bradenton. Thursday, May 9 July 13-Aug. 25, Marie Selby Botanical Gardens glass show, 5:30-8:30 p.m. — Manatee Chamber of Commerce Night with Sarasota. the Marauders, LECOM Park, 1611 Ninth St. W., Bradenton. Fee KIDS & FAMILY applies. Information: 941-748-4842. Saturday, May 11 ON ANNA MARIA ISLAND 9 a.m. and 1 p.m. — NEST Nature Days and Mother’s Day art project, Robinson Preserve expansion, 10299 Ninth Ave. NW, Friday, May 10 10 a.m. — Forty Carrots parenting program, Island Library, Bradenton. Fee applies. Information: 941-742-5923. 10:30 a.m.-1 p.m. — Sunshine Community Compost Compost5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341. A-Thon, R.L. Taylor Center, 1845 34th St., Sarasota. Information: Saturday, May 11 10 a.m. — Origami club, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, 941-794-2866. Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341. ONGOING OFF AMI 2 p.m. — Lego club, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Various dates and times through Beach. Information: 941-778-6341. Aug. 29, Bradenton Marauders baseball Tuesday, May 14 10 a.m. — Preschool storytime, Island Library, 5701 Marina games, LECOM Park, 1611 Ninth St. W., Bradenton. Fee applies. Information: 941Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341. 3:30 p.m. — Recycled book sculpture workshop, Island Library, 747-3031. 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341.

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compiled bY liSa neff, calendar@iSlander.org

Fourth Wednesdays, “Stelliferous Live” star talk, the Bishop Museum of Science and Nature, 201 10th St. W., Bradenton. Fee applies. Information: 941-746-4131. LOOKING AHEAD OFF AMI

LOOKING AHEAD OFF AMI

May 17, Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce 20th Annual Golf Outing, Bradenton. May 19, Rare Fruit Tree Sale, Palmetto.

CLUBS & COMMUNITY ON ANNA MARIA ISLAND

Wednesday, May 8 Noon — Coloring club, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, June 6, Florida Maritime Museum World Oceans Day celebraHolmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341. tion, Cortez. 6:30 p.m. — Island Time Book Club, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341. Wednesday, May 15 11:30 a.m. — Anna Maria Island Garden Club general meeting,

Visit www.islander.org for the best news on ami.

Island happenings Fruit tree sale date set

More than 5,000 plants — from apple trees to pineapples — go on sale Sunday, May 19. The Manatee Rare Fruit Council will hold its annual Rare Fruit Tree Sale 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Sunday, May 19, at the Bradenton Area Convention Center, 1 Haben Blvd., Palmetto. The council’s news release stated the sale would feature citrus trees, tropical fruit trees, bushes, vines, herbs and vegetables. Customers can purchase trees with cash or checks, but not credit cards. The nonprofit council holds monthly meetings and demonstrations at the Palma Sola Botanical Park, 9800 17th Ave. NW, Bradenton For more information, call Joshua Starry at 941685-6257.

Garden club to meet at Roser

THE ISLANDER n MAy 8, 2019 n 11

Privateers check in to Doctor’s Office

Ahoy. The Anna Maria Island Privateers will be sampling a high seas remedy — rum — when they check into the Doctor’s Office Saturday, May 18. The Anna Maria Island Privateers and the Doctor’s Office will host a rum-tasting 6-9 p.m. at the cocktail lounge, 5312 Holmes Blvd., Holmes Beach. AMIP is selling 60 tickets to the event, where 15 “of the finest rums” will be tasted for “a measly donation of $49.99,” according to a news release from the nonprofit. Proceeds from the event will go toward the nonprofit’s mission of supporting kids and community. For reservations, call Jennifer “Mermaid” Price at 585-645-8975.

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The Anna Maria Garden Club will meet at 11:30 a.m. Wednesday, May 15, in the fellowship hall at Roser Memorial Community Church, 512 Pine Ave., Paradise Center offers Anna Maria. memory screening The program will feature speakers discussing gardening to support the monarch butterfly population. The Paradise Center on Longboat Key will offer For more information, call Charlotte Noyes at 941- free memory screenings by appointment Monday, May 778-6758. 13. The center also offers a series of fee-based social Click! The Islander welcomes news of the activities and health and wellness programs. milestones in readers’ lives. Send notices and The center is at 567 Bay Isles Road, Longboat photographs, along with a contact to news@ Key. islander.org. For more information, call 941-383-6493.

The Islander Calendar Thursdays, 9-11 a.m., veterans services assistance, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-7786341. Third Thursdays, 11:45 a.m., Successful Women Aligning Together meets, Bridge Street Bistro, 111 Gulf Drive S., Bradenton Beach. Fee applies. Information: 941-345-5135. 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: 941-5380945. 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

ONGOING OFF AMI Fridays, 10:30 a.m., Paradise Cafe games, music and socializing, the Paradise Center, Temple Beth Israel, 567 Bay Isles Road, Longboat Key. Fee applies. Information: 941-383-6493.

GOOD TO KNOW

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Island Gallery

West Reception Friday, May 10, 5:30 –7:30

Please join us for a wine reception titled, Land and

Sea – Artscapes of Florida, featuring the oil paintings of Florida native, Joanna Karpay, who is known for her bold brushstrokes that capture the serenity of the Gulf coast waters and the magic of the wild inland landscapes. Joanna is inspired by her love of Florida and all its natural beauty.

SAVE THE DATES

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MOTHER’S DAY SPECIALS!

5368 Gulf Drive in Holmes Beach

June 9, All Island Denominations Pentecostal Service, Holmes Beach.

May 12, Mother’s Day. May 27, Memorial Day. June 14, Flag Day. June 16, Father’s Day. June 21, ﬁrst day of summer. July 4, Independence Day. Sept. 2, Labor Day. Sept. 8, Grandparents Day. Sept. 11, Patriot Day. Sept. 23, ﬁrst day of autumn. Sept. 29, Rosh Hoshanah.

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

Under New Ownership Ali Severson

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.

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12 n MAy 8, 2019 n THE ISLANDER

Mother nature, mother’s nurture Anna Maria Island: Mom’s first, forever playground

By ChrisAnn Silver Esformes Islander Reporter My playground was the beaches of Anna Maria Island. It still is. As a young child in the early 1980s, before the public beaches had actual playgrounds, I was content with the sand and sea. Sundays meant my mother loading up the car after breakfast with a declaration that we were, “headed to the island.” Many childhood Mother’s Days were spent enjoying Coquina Beach. Now, as a mother myself, and reporter for The Islander, I bring my almost 8-year-old son, Aiden, to the island with greater frequency than my childhood Sunday jaunts. Through his adventures with “mommy-the-sea-turtle-reporter,” he has learned about nesting turtles and treating the beach and the environment with respect. A piece of trash on the sand is an abomination in his eyes. He knows we pick up any garbage we see, to be disposed of when we leave, “so the baby or mommy sea turtles don’t eat it and get sick,” he tells me. He has experienced the circle of life on the beach. When he was 5, he watched in amazement as 94 loggerhead hatchlings were released into the Gulf of Mexico. And he witnessed the little ones that didn’t quite make it — the stragglers at the bottom of a clutch of eggs that were not strong enough to survive the climb to the top of the sand. He cried at that loss, but moved on with the quickness of emotion that characterizes the adaptability of children. Perhaps his hardest lesson was when he found out that chasing birds on the beach until they all took flight,

garner just as much enjoyment from digging up coquinas and watching them wiggle back into the sand. I now have the joy of sharing my love of the island where I grew up, with my child. For me, that love includes conveying the responsibility to nurture our environment to its future caretakers. While the landscape may have changed a little since I was his age, the lessons of the beach are universal. And, if we’re both lucky, he also will remember and love the island as his first — and forever — playground.

Aiden Esformes, 8, and his mother, Islander reporter ChrisAnn Esformes, both of Palma Sola, stroll May 2 along the shoreline in Holmes Beach. Islander Photo: Billy Allen albeit fun, could be hazardous for birds resting up from a migration to mate or nest. When I explained this, he looked shattered. He asked, “Are you messing around with me, mommy?” Then he shrugged his shoulders and realized he could

Students’ ‘Shores’ show at Studio

Anna Maria Elementary students again created the watercolors to be exhibited May 8-18 at the Studio at Gulf and Pine, 10101 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria. A “zero-waste” reception for the exhibit — and student artists — will be 5:30-7:30 p.m. Thursday, May 16. The Studio will sell student artists’ notecards to benefit AME’s environmental programs and serve refreshments. For more information, call the Studio at 941-778-1906. Islander Courtesy Photo

HBPD encourages kids to help sea turtles Sea turtles have arrived in Holmes Beach and they’re right on time. The first loggerhead nest of the 2019 nesting season on Anna Maria Island was spotted May 1 — the official start of the season — at the south end of the Manatee Public Beach, 4000 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. And code enforcement is rewarding kids for helping keep sea turtles safe with a new “turtle pledge” program. “Any kid that comes to city hall and talks with our code compliance officers and tells them the good things they did — whether it’s filling in a hole or picking up trash — will take the turtle pledge and get a pair of cool sunglasses,” Holmes Beach Police Chief Bill Tokajer said May 1. Additionally, The Islander is offering to publish the turtle-pledger’s picture — either on the beach “doing good” or at the Holmes Beach code office — in the newspaper. Sea turtle nesting season lasts through Oct. 31. The pledge can be taken at Holmes Beach City Hall, 5801 Marina Drive. Code enforcement can be contacted at 941-778-2677 for more information. — ChrisAnn Silver Esformes A bashful Sierra Mitchell, 5, of Ruskin, accepts a pair of sunglasses with mom’s encouragement from Holmes Beach code enforcement supervisor JT Thomas at the Manatee Public Beach, 4000 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. Thomas met Sierra and mom Abbey Mitchell while performing a beach compliance check in May 2017. Islander File Photo: ChrisAnn Silver Esformes

THE ISLANDER n MAy 8, 2019 n 13

Mother nature, motherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s nurture Motherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day brings back beach memories

By Sandy Ambrogi Islander Reporter My momma â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Margie Sneed â&#x20AC;&#x201D; didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t like sand, and she didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t like sun. But that didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t keep her from 50-plus years of family beach vacations. As a young woman, she donned her one-piece â&#x20AC;&#x201D; the only style she wore â&#x20AC;&#x201D; and tolerated the beach while my brother and I played in the waves and sand on Anna Maria Island. In later years, she huddled under beach umbrellas wearing a Gilligan hat, first holding my babies, then watching the action as they grew. Now, I do the same with my grandsons â&#x20AC;&#x201D; minus the hat. My first trip to Anna Maria Island was in 1965. A man my father worked with in the utilities business offered up his new block house on a little island we had never heard of, but that didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t stop us. After a two-day road trip from Chattanooga, Tennessee, in a 1965 Mustang with no air conditioning, we arrived at the island with a house key. Momma and I had sat in the back seat the entire way, while my father and brother took turns driving. The hot wind had beaten us up, but she never complained. To our delight, the little house backed up to a canal and had three bedrooms, so I didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have to share a room with my brother. A beach was nearby, and every morning Momma and Pop walked with us in the August heat to swim and lollygag in the Gulf of Mexico. Momma wore a floppy hat and sprawled on a Betty Boop beach towel. Pop walked the shoreline, fed pieces of bread and soda crackers to the gulls and played in the water with us. By midday, sunburned and tired, we wandered back to the house. Often, my brother carried sand dollars he had gleaned from the nearby sandbar. Momma didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t like the sand dollars. She made him leave them outside on the patio. A teacher Momma worked with was vacationing in St. Petersburg with her family the week of our first island visit. So we ventured up there one evening and learned the finer points of crabbing. Momma didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t like crabbing any more than she liked the beach, but she went along. I wished I hadnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t. I had nightmares about crabs for days. After crabbing, the adults smoked cigarettes and drank Cold Duck on the patio. I passed out on a couch, dreaming crabs were running all over me.

Milestones

The Islander welcomes news of the milestones in readersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; lives â&#x20AC;&#x201D; weddings, anniversaries, births, travels and more. Submit notices to news@islander.org.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Mommaâ&#x20AC;? Sneed sits on the end of a beach chair in 1989 with â&#x20AC;&#x153;Popâ&#x20AC;? Sneed on the Gulf of Mexico in Destin, as 3-year old granddaughter Maria Ambrogi stands alongside. Maria now is the mother of two boys, ages 3 and 6. Islander Photos: Ambrogi Archive

Evenings in Holmes Beach I still remember Momma calling my brother and I in for dinner. We usually were lying on our stomachs in the grass, hanging over the canal edge or mucking around on the bottom. In those days, when the tide went out, the canal emptied out, too. When the tide was in, Momma sat in the yard and made dough balls from white bread to put on hooks with fishing line. We didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have poles, but Momma had found the line and hooks under the kitchen sink, and she made them work. The mullet teased us, jumping and stealing dough balls. I think Momma got a kick out of seeing us trying to catch one. Some evenings, my parents walked with us to the Holmes Beach airstrip, where we watched small planes land. We had never known anyone who owned an airplane, but Momma, a fifth-grade teacher, explained that some rich people actually did own airplanes. It was a revelation about our status in life I pondered for years. I never forgot that first trip to the island or the dozens of trips to the Gulf of Mexico that followed. We took family vacations to the beach with extended family for more than 30 years. Momma never missed one. Fifty years later, I moved here. Recently, my brother found a photograph of us in the front yard of the vacation house in Holmes Beach. It had a partial address and a good view. It got me

thinking: Maybe I could find that house. I checked an island map and started driving. I found the house just inside the entrance to Key Royale, looking virtually the same as it did in 1965 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; at least the front exterior did. Momma would have been happy to know it was still there. She passed away on Christmas Eve 2011. Happy Motherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day and thanks for all the beach trips, Margie. I know how much you hated the sand. I also know how much you loved your family. Your family loved you, too.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Mommaâ&#x20AC;? and â&#x20AC;&#x153;Popâ&#x20AC;? toast one another on the beach in 1992. Beach vacations were a family tradition. Their final holiday on Anna Maria Island was in 2004.

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14 n MAy 8, 2019 n THE ISLANDER

Center in black as fiscal year winds down By Ryan Paice Islander Reporter The Center of Anna Maria Island is close to finishing its current fiscal year in the black. From the beginning of the fiscal year July 1, 2018, through March, the center earned $89,188 in net income — $40,405 more than budgeted and $77,880 more than the nonprofit earned for the same period in 2017-18. The nonprofit’s fiscal year ends June 30. Low costs played a part in the center’s earnings. Without a development, sports or operations director, program, administration and fundraising expenses fell under budget. Executive director Chris Culhane said at a board meeting April 29 that the nonprofit was near the “finish line” for filling one of the vacant director positions. And, the center announced May3 that Jim McDaniel is the new development director, after a search conducted by Peg Beck of Creative Consulting Associates of Sarasota reviewed nearly 190 applicants. McDaniel worked as development director for Saint Stephen’s Episcopal School for the past six years and has more than 20 years of experience in nonprofit philanthropy. McDaniel has a bachelor’s degree from Hamilton College and a master’s from Columbia University. He and his wife, Susan Herren, live in Palmetto. Meanwhile, the center earned $438,630 in program revenue through March, $13,926 more than budgeted. On the flip side, program expenses amounted to $224,044, which is $29,411 under budget. Fundraising revenue was budgeted to reach $408,392 through March, but fell $41,746 short. However, fundraising expenses were under budget by $53,886. General and administration expenses were $45,590 under budget, at $349,187. Events also raked in money for the center. A series of music concerts sponsored by the Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau with $100,000 in tourist tax funding from February to the

start of April earned the center $50,000. The series featured The Outlaws, Phil Vassar, Judy Collins, BJ Thomas and the Marshall Tucker Band and was managed by the Manatee Performing Arts Center, where Collins performed. MPAC chief executive officer Janene Amick’s final report April 15 to the Manatee County Tourist Development Council, which recommended funding the series, lacked expenses for the series. Amick said in an interview April 10 the center had incurred expenditures for rental chairs, security and hiring the Sandbar Restaurant to cater the events. Culhane said the only expense the center incurred was for the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office to provide security for $40 per hour per officer. Culhane also said an April 11 fashion show raised about $8,500. Funding from the county is expected to cover some infrastructure improvements before the new fiscal year. Board treasurer Christine Major Hicks said the center had yet to receive $100,000 of $125,000 in concession funds allocated by Manatee County. Culhane said the nonprofit already spent $90,661 of the money as of April 29 to repair the roof and complete field maintenance and to purchase new vans and fitness equipment. Hicks said the county paid $25,000 to reimburse the center for the vans, but hadn’t reimbursed $65,661 because she didn’t complete the required paperwork. “I take full responsibility for this and plan on getting this submitted soon,” she wrote April 30 in a text message to The Islander. “There is no issue with the county.” “The process is relatively laborious, and we planned to complete the necessary tasks in the offseason,” Culhane wrote April 30 in an email to The Islander. The last $34,339 in concession funds will be used to reimburse costs for restroom remodeling after the project begins later this month.

Jim McDaniel, left, the Center of Anna Maria Island’s newly named development director, poses May 3 with Chris Culhane near a sign outside of the facility. Islander Courtesy Photo

Island Players stage “Present Laughter”

Bonnie Warren, Anthony “Train” Caruso and Sarah Spicer show off with their Posi songwriting award March 31 in Tampa. Islander Courtesy Photo

Cortez musician wins songwriting award By Cynthia Granger Special to The Islander “Sunday morning I was a songwriter. Sunday evening I became an award-winning songwriter,” said former Anna Maria Island resident Anthony “Train” Caruso. He had a look of amazement on his face as he described March 31, the day he and writing partners Heidi Hamels, Sara Spicer and Bonnie Warren won the Posi for Song Of The Year in the social justice category for “We Are Us.” The award is given by emPower Music & Arts for songwriting in six message-based categories. “The Posi is a very honorable award,” said Caruso, who lives near Cortez with his wife, Lisa. They lived on Anna Maria Island 2013-18. During that time, he was CEO of WHOA — “What’s Happening with Original Artists” — magazine. For the Posi honors, three songs were nominated in the categories of uniting, social justice personal transformation, relationships. The nominated songs were performed live March 19 at the Posi Music Festival in Tampa. At the celebration, Caruso cautioned his cowriters that chances were slim they would walk away with an award — because they are relatively new to the scene. They stood offstage, holding hands, praying and just breathing. Then, “We Are Us” was announced as a winner. Caruso accepted the award with Warren and Spicer as Hamels waited in the wings. “When I got to the Posi festival,” Caruso said, “I was amazed at the people there, the outpouring of songwriters and talent there. … It humbles you a lot.” Caruso wrote his first song at age 16. He took a journey of professional paths — from serving as a non-commissioned officer in the U.S. Army to work as a serial entrepreneur. But he always wrote and played music. “My genre is inspirational rock, with a classic and ’80s rock vibe,” he said. His journey continues. He is under contract with a Nashville, Tennessee, publisher, finishing an EP and preparing to tour this summer.

“Images of America: Anna Maria Island,” Pamela Hopkins gives Heiko Knipfelberg a hand across his cheek in the Island Players production of Noel Coward’s comedy “Present Laughter.” The play is running through May 12 at the theater, 10009 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria. Tickets are $20. Performances are at 8 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday and 2 p.m. Sunday. For more information, call the box office at 941-778-5755. Island Courtesy Photo: Island Players/Mike Lusk

a pictorial history of the island compiled by Bonner Joy is available for $20 at The Islander office, 3218 E. Bay Drive, Holmes Beach.

THE ISLANDER n May 8, 2019 n 15

Anna Maria City Pier construction on track

By Ryan Paice Islander Reporter Work on the new Anna Maria City Pier isn’t slowing down. Anna Maria Mayor Dan Murphy said in a May 2 interview with The Islander that i+iconSOUTHEAST is installing bolts on pilings, which will be topped with concrete caps. The caps will connect piles with wood bents, beams to support stringers and the ipe decking for the walkway. Remaining materials, including the pile caps and concrete decking for the T-end, will be delivered to Kingfish Boat Ramp in Holmes Beach in the next couple of weeks. From there, it will be loaded onto Icon’s barge. Murphy said Icon remains on track to finish the walkway and T-end by Aug. 27, but he expected the contractor to submit change order requests to extend the deadline due to lost time. Icon experienced an obstacle when preparing to drive piles near the shore, where concrete had been laid to secure old pilings. Murphy said the contractor spent several days removing the concrete to complete pile-driving and may request an extension from the

commission for the delay. While Icon continues construction, the city is collecting bids for the construction of the restaurant and bait shop at the T-end. The city issued a request for proposals calling for the construction of a 2,460-square-foot building with a restaurant on the east side of the pier T-end and a bait shop and restrooms on the west side. Both buildings will be connected under one roof. The contractor must set up water, sewer, fire protection, communication, gas and electric lighting for the pier. The RFP also introduces alternative options for the restaurant and bait shop, including kebony or Hardie board siding. A bid form calling for contractors’ quotes on materials and labor for the project includes space for them to provide costs for alternative materials. The contractor chosen for the job will have a 200day deadline to construct the building and will be required to pay a $495 daily fine for finishing late. The city commission can approve a deadline extension, if warranted, for the contractor. Contractors may submit proposals to the city until I+iconSOUTHEAST employees work May 3, installMay 20, after which commissioners will discuss the ing pile caps and bents for the new Anna Maria City bids with Murphy. Pier. Islander Photo: Ryan Paice

Holmes Beach prepares to update comprehensive plan

By ChrisAnn Silver Esformes Islander Reporter Holmes Beach is a step closer to embarking on a comprehensive plan update. At a May 1 meeting, members of the planning commission discussed the schedule for a request for proposals written by members of the board and Mary Buonagura, the city’s human resources analyst, to procure bids for a comp plan facilitator. The board did not have a quorum as members Scott Boyd, Jayne Christenson, Thomas Carlson and Sylvia Harris were absent. The state requires all counties and municipalities to adopt comprehensive plans. The Holmes Beach plan was adopted in 1989 and last amended in 2007. A comp plan outlines community goals for growth and development and details transportation, utilities, land use, recreation and housing policy and regulations. The RFP was released April 15, and the May 2 pre-bid meeting was held to answer any contractor questions. Proposals will be due to the city by 4 p.m. Friday, June 28. Six of 11 planning firms sent 10 representatives to the May 2 pre-bid conference, which was held in the chambers at city hall, 5801 Marina Drive. Planning Commission Chair Charles Stealey and

Buonagura presented the bidders with information regarding the city, the RFP process and answered questions. Buonagura said bidders can submit written questions to the city by May 29, and staff will reply to the inquiries. Charnelle Hicks, president of CHPlanning Ltd. of Philadelphia, asked if the city would give preference to Florida firms. Buonagura said, “No,” adding that staff opens the bids, which are reviewed by herself, Stealey, director of development services, Barney Salmon and city treasurer Lori Hill. Mayor Judy Titsworth will be present for the bid review, but is not part of the evaluation, which includes a weighted value system. She said the city wants a planner that understands unique challenges faced by Holmes Beach. Buonagura explained some of the city’s features, including the struggle for balance between the residents, business owners and visitors, and the importance of sustainability, greenspace and considerations for sea level rise in the updated plan. She said one challenge the city faces is affordable middle-income housing and suggested planners consider incorporating solutions to the issue in their bids. Buonagura closed the pre-bid conference by asking the attendees to consider, “What is Holmes Beach

Holmes Beach Planning Commission Chair Charles Stealey speaks May 2 during a pre-bid conference at city hall, 5801 Marina Drive. Islander Photo: ChrisAnn Silver Esformes going to look like in 20 years, and how will we get there?” The bids will be opened at 10 a.m. Tuesday, July 2, in a public meeting at city hall, 5801 Marina Drive. The planning commission will meet at 6 p.m. Wednesday, June 5, also at city hall.

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16 n MAy 8, 2019 n THE ISLANDER

MPO collecting public comments on five-year transportation plan between Palmetto and Bradenton, specifically the DeSoto Bridge crossing the Manatee River, tops the list. Anna Maria Island-specific projects listed in the plan include the ongoing Barrier Islands Traffic Study and continued work to replace the Anna Maria Island and Cortez bridges and study the Longboat Pass Bridge. The TIP process began last June, when the MPO board adopted a project priority list that went to the Florida Department of Transportation to prepare a 5-year work program. The plan includes roadway improvements, transportation alternatives and bridge, safety and public transportation projects. The TIP must be submitted to the DOT by July 15. In addition to collecting public comments, the MPO is presenting the draft document to its boards. A presentation was expected at the Island Transpor-

tation Planning Organization meeting set for May 6, after The Islander went to press. The ITPO consists of the island mayors and currently is chaired by Bradenton Beach Mayor John Chappie, who serves on the MPO board. A presentation also is on the MPO board’s agenda for its meeting at 9:30 a.m. Monday, May 20, at the Bayfront Community Center, 803 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. How to comment The Sarasota/Manatee Metropolitan Planning Organization posted a draft of its five-year transportation improvement program at www.mympo.org/m/ mandates/tip. The public can comment on the website; in person at the MPO board meeting at 9:30 a.m. Monday, May 20, in Sarasota; via email at mpo@mympo.org; and by mail at Sarasota/Manatee MPO, 7632 15th St. E., Sarasota FL 34243. Comments are due by May 20.

Overﬂow

Trucks with trailers find parking on Manatee Avenue on the right of way opposite Kingfish Boat Ramp, where all the spaces were filled the afternoon of April 27. Earlier this year, the city of Holmes Beach restricted parking on Manatee Avenue east of the Manatee Public Beach. Islander Photo: Bonner Joy

About the MPO

The Sarasota/Manatee Metropolitan Planning Organization is the regional transportation planning entity for Sarasota and Manatee counties. Interlocal agreements establish the MPO as a process for local governments to coordinate with the Florida Department of Transportation, the Federal Highway Administration and the Federal Transit Administration. Sarasota County Commissioner Alan Maio chairs the 17-member MPO. Bradenton Beach Mayor John Chappie serves as chair of the Island Transportation Planning Organization and represents the island cities on the MPO. Other members represent Bradenton, Palmetto, Venice, Longboat Key, North Port, Sarasota, Manatee County and the Sarasota-Manatee Airport Authority. The next meeting of the MPO will be at 9:30 a.m. Monday, May 20, at the Bayfront Community Center, 803 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. The ITPO met May 6 at Bradenton Beach City Hall, 107 Gulf Drive.

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Eyes on the road

The Florida Department of Transportation and Manatee County posted the following notices for the week of May 6: Avenue C: Right-of-way restoration in Bradenton Beach continues along Avenue C, including installation of a stormwater infiltration system and driveway restoration. Once restoration is completed, paving will begin. Coquina Beach: Manatee County is paving the

south end of the Coquina Beach parking lot in Bradenton Beach. The south lot will be closed during the work. Palma sola Causeway on Manatee Avenue/ state Road 64 at the boat ramp: The Manatee County Palma Sola Boat Ramp is closed for construction activity. For more information about the pipeline replacement projects on the island, go online to amipipereplacement.com. For the latest road watch information, go online to www.fl511.com or dial 511.

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By Lisa Neff Islander Editor Red light this project? Green light that proposal? The Sarasota/Manatee Metropolitan Planning Organization wants to collect public comment on the draft of a five-year transportation improvement program. The MPO, a regional planning body established by state and federal laws through interlocal agreements, updates the TIP annually to add a new year and adjust priorities. The MPO is at work on the plan that will run from 2019-20 to 2023-24. A PDF of the draft TIP, as well as an interactive version with maps, is online at www.mympo.org/m/ mandates/tip, where the public will find an introduction to transportation issues in the region, an explanation on how planners weigh and rank projects and project charts. Many of the top projects are ongoing — and off Anna Maria Island. Dealing with traffic congestion

THE ISLANDER n May 8, 2019 n 17

Holmes Beach charter reviewers push for finish line, final report By ChrisAnn Silver Esformes Islander Reporter The ordinance is written and the final report is in process. Holmes Beach Charter Review Commissioners Claudia Carlson, Sean Murphy and Chair Edward Upshaw met May 2 to consider Upshawâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first draft of a final report on the CRCâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s findings. Commissioners Nancy Deal and David Zaccagnino were absent with excuse. The commission completed its review of the city charter in April and will present its recommended amendments to the city commission with a final report. At the May 2 meeting, Carlson asked that the section of the report detailing â&#x20AC;&#x153;governanceâ&#x20AC;? include appendices with reports from both sides of the issue. During the four-month review of the charter, form of government â&#x20AC;&#x201D; whether the city should retain its strong-mayor status or hire a city manager â&#x20AC;&#x201D; was debated. When the CRC considered the matter, the vote was split with Carlson, Deal and Upshaw supporting a ballot question on the city manager form of government and Murphy and Zaccagnino opposing the measure. The charter review process requires a supermajority vote â&#x20AC;&#x201D; at least 4-1 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; to place an amendment on

Holmes Beach Charter Review Commissioners Sean Murphy, Chair Edward Upshaw and Claudia Carlson discuss a final report at their May 2 meeting. Islander Photo: ChrisAnn Silver Esformes

the ballot for voter consideration. Because the vote was split 3-2, the matter will not be on the Nov. 5 municipal ballot. Commissioners approved 3-0 a motion to accept changes to the governance section of the report, including summaries of arguments for and against the citymanager and strong-mayor forms of government, provided at the next meeting by Murphy and already submitted by Carlson, who will be absent with excuse. Charter changes already approved by a superma-

jority of the committee will be submitted to the city commission as an ordinance, and then to the Manatee County Supervision of Elections for a citywide vote on the November ballot. The Holmes Beach CRC will hold its next meeting and vote on the final report at 10 a.m. Wednesday, May 8, at city hall, 5801 Marina Drive. Upshaw will present the report to the city during a commission work session at 6 p.m. Thursday, May 30, also at city hall.

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18 n MAy 8, 2019 n THE ISLANDER

The day the Skyway fell ‘The devil and the deep blue sea’

By Sandy Ambrogi Islander Reporter The bright, yellow suspension cables glint in the sun. On a clear day, the Sunshine Skyway Bridge can be seen from Anna Maria Island. Islanders also can see Egmont Key, off the northeast tip of Bean Point. Egmont is where Capt. John Lerro was sleeping in a beach cabin at the pilot station early May 8, 1980 — before his name would be tied to disaster. Richard Hornbuckle was on a morning drive to Bradenton May 9, 1980, with three others for a golf game. In a rainstorm, he turned on his emergency flashers and moved to the right lane on the Sunshine Skyway Bridge over Tampa Bay between Pinellas and Manatee counties. Hornbuckle was driving slowly when the road ahead of him dropped out of sight. He slammed his foot on the brake pedal and his Buick slid to a halt 14 inches from the edge of the vanished roadway. The Sunshine Skyway Bridge disaster was in motion — right before his eyes. The men exited the car and walked back from the abyss, trying to comprehend what happened. Hornbuckle, who died in 2000, and his passengers were some of the luckier ones that morning. The Sunshine Skyway Bridge disaster remains one of Tampa Bay’s darkest events. Thirty-five people, including 26 passengers on a Greyhound bus bound for Miami and nine people in passenger cars, died. The 609-foot long Summit Venture, piloted by 37-year-old Capt. John Eugene Lerro, had rammed the southbound span of the Skyway at 7:34 a.m. The ship, eastbound to the Port of Tampa, was 800 feet to the right center of the Tampa Bay shipping channel. Lerro had lost sight of the bridge in a squall that came in off the Gulf of Mexico and he was struggling to keep control of the 35,000-ton ship in the wind and the rain. He could not see the bow. He could not see the bridge less than a mile away. He ordered the ship to turn hard left and ordered the anchor dropped. But it was too late. When the rain cleared moments before impact, he was unable to stop or steer the vessel clear of the span. After the impact, the bridge shuddered and the cantilever construction flexed, taking down a quartermile of the southbound roadway, which fell from the main supporting pier to the other side of the span. The first mayday call went out at 7:34 a.m. from the Summit Venture, according to skyway.com. “Mayday! Coast Guard! Mayday! Bridge crossing is down!” Lerro yelled into the radio mic. He and his crew watched as vehicles plunged into the bay. Some 1,297 feet of roadway fell into the water. Wesley MacIntire, 56, a Gulfport truck driver, was Shortly after the crash and the squall subsided, the Summit Venture anchored alongside the bridge with Skyway roadbed and girders on the bow and a crushed piling to its starboard. Islander File Photo: Gene Page III

YEARS AGO

The view of the Skyway Bridge disaster scene unfolded from the top of the second span looking northwest toward the Summit Venture after it moved back from the bridge. Islander File Photo: Paul Roat in his 1974 Ford pickup when he realized the road was falling beneath him. The World War II Navy veteran survived the fall — his truck fell with the roadway and crashed on the bow of the ship. The truck then bounced into the water. He fought his way out of the sinking truck and surfaced beside the Summit Venture and later said he feared being killed by the drifting ship at that point. The bow was covered with steel girders and twisted rebar.

A Summit Venture crewmember spotted MacIntire and hoisted him up on the deck. MacIntire was the only survivor of the plunge off the Sunshine Skyway. St. Petersburg firefighter Gerard Chalmers was among the first divers at the bridge collapse. He told the Sarasota Herald-Tribune he developed “bridge phobia” after the disaster. Hornbuckle continued to travel between Pinellas and Manatee counties, but always took the long way around, through Tampa, after the disaster. A friend, Michael Gattus, said Hornbuckle became deathly ill the one time he tried to cross the Skyway again. Wrong place, wrong time The disaster was a perfect storm of Mother Nature coupled with human error. The bridge spanned 15 miles linking Pinellas and Manatee. The first span Skyway Bridge opened in 1954 with two lanes of traffic, replacing the Bee Line ferry between the counties. In 1971, a twin parallel span was opened, carrying southbound traffic. The original span then carried the northbound traffic. After the 1980 disaster, a new taller, cable-stayed bridge was constructed. It opened in 1987, with a clear-

THE ISLANDER n MAy 8, 2019 n 19

Islander File Photo: Gene Page III

From the record

A Florida Highway Patrol officer helps secure the yellow Buick stopped at the edge of the mangled Sunshine Skyway Bridge. Driver Richard Hornbuckle of St. Petersburg stopped just shy of disaster that day, having walked back from the brink with his three passengers. Islander File Photo: Paul Roat An Eckerd College marine rescue team was first on the scene at the Skyway Bridge disaster and set about helping with recovery amid the wreckage. Islander File Photo: Paul Roat

‘

The radar was out, the visuals were out. …I was between the devil and the deep blue sea. That’s what I have to live with now. — Summit Venture pilot John Lerro

’

ance of 175 feet and a channel 1,200 feet wide — 400 feet wider than the channel at the time of the disaster. Lerro was young and well respected in his profession when he piloted the ship into the bridge. He had piloted ships around the globe and was scheduled two days after the incident to receive a promotion to fullfledged harbor pilot. The phosphate ship was empty — headed into the Port of Tampa to take on a load — when Lerro was engulfed by the squall that reduced visibility to zero. Later, he testified in a hearing about the incident. He said he feared wind might push the Summit Venture into an oncoming ship if he tried to anchor. So, he chose to keep moving in the storm, not realizing the ship had moved out of the channel and away from under the high center of the bridge. It was too late when he ordered the turn and the anchor dropped. After the disaster, Lerro’s pilot license was suspended — though it was later reinstated — and he was the subject of state and federal hearings. In 1981, he was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. He taught school in New York state for a semester in 1985, and then returned to Tampa Bay. He was

divorced, suffered bouts of depression until he died in 2002 at 59. “It was the storm and the wrong decision,” Lerro told a Los Angeles Times reporter after the incident. “The radar was out, the visuals were out. I ought to have put the ship aground. I was between the devil and the deep blue sea. That’s what I have to live with now.” Today’s skyway The Bob Graham Sunshine Skyway Bridge that drivers traverse now is very different from the Skyway bridge the Summit Venture struck in 1980. It has cables attached to towers to support the deck. The bridge is 4.14 miles long and the longest span in the construction is 1,200 feet. It has four lanes of traffic — two northbound and two southbound — and has a total height of 430 feet. Clearance for ships is 180.5 feet at mean-high tide. The bridge opened April 20, 1987, and cost $244 million. During construction, the northbound lanes of the old Skyway — which were not damaged by the Summit Venture — were converted to carry traffic in both directions until the current bridge was finished. The old bridge approaches were kept intact and make up the Skyway Fishing Pier State Park. Wes MacIntire was the last person to drive over it the old remaining northbound lanes of the original bridge before it was demolished. Accompanied by his wife, they dropped 35 white carnations into the water at the top of the span, one flower for each person who died in May 1980.

At 7:34 a.m. May 9, 1980, the Liberian bulk carrier Summit Venture rammed a support pier of the western span of the Sunshine Skyway Bridge. About 1,297 feet of bridge deck and superstructure fell 150 feet into Tampa Bay, according to the investigation report released by the National Transportation Safety Board in March 1981. The NTSB determined the probable cause of the accident to be the Summit Venture’s unexpected encounter with severe weather, the failure of the National Weather Service to issue a severe weather warning for mariners and the failure of the Summit Venture pilot to abandon transit when he lost visual and radar navigational references in the rain. Thirty-five people died, all of them drivers or passengers in vehicles on the bridge. A Greyhound bus, small pickup truck and six automobiles fell into the bay. The NTSB conducted a 10-day hearing where 28 people testified. These are their words, according to the report: “I started reviewing my options immediately … The rains came, but the wind has to be 30 to 10, 20, 30 seconds later. I don’t know how long,” the Summit Venture pilot-trainee said about the intense rain that obliterated the radar screen. “Make the anchors ready for dropping,” the Summit Venture pilot John Lerro said he told the ship’s master as he saw the rain fill the radar screen and tried, unsuccessfully, to sight a buoy using binoculars. “Buoy starboard bow,” the pilot-trainee said he reported when he could see buoys again. “Where captain, where on the starboard bow? I have to know,” the pilot said he replied, and then he ordered the pilot-trainee to “change to the next course.” “Lighter than usual,” two tollbooth operators testified, describing traffic on the bridge that morning. They are not named in the report. “The pickup started to bob up and down. … But then I, like, started to drop over a high part, and at this point I looked and there I seen the ship. I was looking down at the ship. And I knew, you know, what had happened,” testified another driver, Wesley MacIntire. He was driving a pickup that went off the bridge and was the only survivor of the bridge collapse. “I could see the red airplane warning lights atop the bridge structure on the west side of the bridge. Suddenly those red lights fell from their original position to a point out of my view below the roadway ahead,” testified the motorist at the wheel of a slow-moving Chevy on the bridge who stopped safely. He was not named in the report. “It seemed to wave and roll as it was falling,” the Chevy’s driver testified about the bridge deck, adding that he began backing up — immediately but slowly. “After I stopped, I remembered about three cars and then a bus passed traveling southbound.” — Lisa Neff The Islander, looking back on the Sunshine Skyway Bridge disaster, used the following resources for this report: The Islander archives, skywaybridge. com, WGCU Southwest Florida, Wikipedia, the Tampa Bay Times, the Miami Herald and the Los Angeles Times.

20 n MAy 8, 2019 n THE ISLANDER

Gathering

LOOKING AHEAD OFF AMI June 9, All Island Denominations Pentecostal Service, Holmes Beach. 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 Monday Bible study 9 a.m.; women’s Wednesday Bible

study 10 a.m. Cortez Church of Christ, 12111 45th Ave. W., Cortez. Sunday Bible study, 10 a.m.; Sunday worship, 11 a.m.; Wednesday Bible study, 7 p.m. CrossPointe Fellowship, 8665 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. Sunday worship 9 a.m.; Sunday life group 10:30 a.m.; women’s Tuesday prayer 9:30 a.m.; men’s Wednesday Bible study 7 a.m.; Wednesday fellowship meal 6:15 p.m.; 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 Wednesday breakfast 8 a.m. 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.; Wednesday prayer partners 11:30 a.m.; women’s Thursday Bible study 10 a.m. 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

Gathering

Send announcements and listings for Gathering to news@islander.org. The deadline is the Wednesday prior to the publication date. Please include a contact number. Key. Sunday service 10 a.m.; fellowship afterward. 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.; Just Older Youth/JOY Brown Bag Lunch Series second and fourth Wednesdays, 11 a.m.; Terriﬁc Tuesdays 5:30 p.m. St. Bernard Catholic Church, 248 S. Harbor Drive, Holmes Beach. Saturday confession 3 p.m.; Saturday Mass 4 p.m.; Sunday Mass followed by coffee and doughnuts 8:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m.; weekday Mass 8:30 a.m. Please, send listings and changes to listings to calendar@ islander.org.

Obituaries

Roser-Robics reception

Melissa Merkle leads a “RoserRobics” class at Roser Memorial Community Church. Merkle, who is moving with her family to Ohio, will lead her last class at the church at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, May 9, and well wishers are invited to attend the session and a farewell reception in the fellowship hall, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Roser will continue classes using Merkle’s video Tuesdays and Thursdays at 9:30 a.m. Islander Courtesy Photo

Donald Edward Munson

Gloria Dei puts foster kids in pajamas

Members of Gloria Dei Lutheran Church are outfitting Manatee County children in foster care for a better night’s sleep. After church member Beverly Ruis read about children in Manatee County foster care, she came up with an idea for a “quick social ministry project.” She proposed collecting new pajamas for children — from toddlers to teenagers. Ruis, who had worked in Michigan’s court system, said she learned many Manatee children “come into foster care with only the clothes on their backs.” “Clothing allowances only stretch so far, and pajamas usually don’t make it,” she said, according to a news release from GDLC. Ruis contacted Alicia Graf, a resource development coordinator of the Safe Children Coalition in Manatee County. SCC serves about 1,600 children in Manatee, Sarasota and DeSoto counties. Graf told her pajamas are needed, and always go quickly. Some children have never had a new pair of pajamas, according to Ruis. The church’s drive to collect new pajamas began in March and concluded April 6-7, when churchgoers brought their donations to be blessed at worship services.

The church collected 134 pairs of pajamas. “It was an exciting process, seeing so much support from our congregation and visitors,” Ruis said. “The staff at Safe Children Coalition was very happy and excited too.” Gloria Dei Lutheran Church is at 6608 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. For more information, call the church at 941-7781813. — Jean Etsinger

Roser to reward moms on their holiday

Loving Christ • Sharing His Grace • Serving All COMMUNITY CHURCH

Call for a ride to the 10:00 AM Worship Service

SUNDAY WORSHIP 8:30 AM IN THE CHAPEL or 10:00 AM IN THE SANCTUARY 10:00 AM Nursery

8:45 AM Adult Sunday School

A NONDENOMINATIONAL, CHRISTIAN CHURCH • EVERYONE IS WELCOME!

512 Pine Ave • Anna Maria

Roser Memorial Community Church will present women with a flower during services at 8:30 a.m. and 10 a.m. Sunday, May 12, which is Mother’s Day. After the services, the church will serve refreshments in the narnex. Patricia Vanderstouw, the Gloria Dei Lutheran Roser is at 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. For more information, call the church at 941-778- Church office administrator, prepares donated pajamas for delivery to the Safe Children Coalition. 0414.

941-778-0414 • www.RoserChurch.com • www.facebook.com/RoserChurch

Donald Edward Munson, 96, of Anna Maria Island, died April 28. He was born in Warsaw, Indiana, the eldest son of Donald James and Miriam Azwell. He lived many years in Anderson, Indiana, and Erwin, Tennessee, before moving with his wife to their home on Anna Maria Island. After attending Indiana and Purdue universities, he left college Munson to join the U.S. Army Air Corps. He flew 45 combat missions with the 13th Air Force in the Southwest Pacific Theatre of Operations. As a first lieutenant, he was awarded the Air Medal with two Oak Leaf Clusters, the Philippine Liberation Ribbon with Battle Star, the Asiatic Pacific Theatre Ribbon with three Battle Stars and the Unit Citation before honorable discharge. He was a true example of the Greatest Generation. He owned his own business, Tri-Port Industrial Tools in Blountville, Tennessee, for 20 years after serving 10 years as senior vice president for Superior Hone Corp. in Erwin. He was a Masonic Lodge member in Anderson and Erwin. He was a high school basketball and track athlete. Upon retiring to Anna Maria Island in 1987, he spent many hours at Bradenton’s YMCA and enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren. Brown & Sons Funeral Homes & Crematory 43rd Street Chapel is in charge of arrangements. Memorial donations may be made to the Bradenton YMCA, 3805 59th St. W., Bradenton FL 34209 or manateeymca.org/. Condolences made online to www.brownandsonsfuneral.com. He is survived by his wife of 74 years, Suzanne Yount; children Joelle Munson Stitisinger and husband Glenn, Catherine Munson Bailey and husband Gary and Dr. Lizanne Munson Elliott and husband Perry; grandchildren Matthew Glenn Stitisinger and wife Holly, Elizabeth Stitisinger Husketh and husband Greg, Dr. Jennifer Suzanne Blues and husband Johnny and Andrew Christopher Bailey.

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, including online, are free. Paid obituaries can be discussed with advertising consultant Toni Lyon at 941-778-7978.

Growing in Jesus’ Name Sunday Service 10:00 AM

Adult Sunday School Follows Service

The Rev. Dr. Norman Pritchard

SERMON: Mother’s Day, Remembering Forward

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

Visitors & Residents Welcome • Childcare Available Watch our 10:00 AM service live. Log onto our website & follow the YouTube link.

6400 Gulf of Mexico Dr.

•

941.383.8833 (oﬃce)

•

www.christchurchlbk.org

THE ISLANDER n MAy 8, 2019 n 21

Fashioning a cause

JoAnne Moyer, Terry Stewart, Barbara Murphy, Peggy Sawe, Sharon Holdridge, Cindy Richmond, Deanie Sebring, Lisa Turner, Priscilla Seewald, Fran Derr, Nanette Almeter, Natalie Almeter and Amber Zampello take part April 17 in the Anna Maria Island Garden Club Fashion Show at Roser Memorial Community Church in Anna Maria. Ireneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Resort Wear outfitted the garden club models. The fundraiser supports the clubâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s beautification projects on the island. Islander Courtesy Photo

Robert â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Bobâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Kenneth Boyd

Robert â&#x20AC;&#x153;Bobâ&#x20AC;? Kenneth Boyd, 72, died April 20. A service will be at 1 p.m. Saturday, May 11, at Roser Memorial Community Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. He was born May 2, 1947, to Arthur R. and Dorothy M. in Brooklyn in New York City. He attended Anna Maria Elementary before his family moved to Ohio. He enlisted in the U.S. Army and spent time in Germany, where he acquired a taste for wine. He and his wife, Alwana L., moved to Florida in 1969. He became a hairstylist and owned and operated Bobâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hair & Co. in Anna Maria for 20 years. After he sold his business, he went to work with Hair Dimensions in Bradenton, where he worked every day. He was an active member of the Anna Maria Island Privateers since 1976, known as â&#x20AC;&#x153;Pirate Bobâ&#x20AC;? and serving as the captain, vice president and president and later named an honorary member. Memorial donations may be made to the Roser Memorial Community Church ministries, P.O. Box 247, Anna Maria FL 34216. Mr. Boyd is survived by his wife of 50 years, Alwana L.; niece Renee Kirkley and husband Patrick; nephew Darren Baker; cousins Robert and Francis McGlynn; and nieces Charlene, Linda, Brandon Kirkley and Danica Dean.

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.

Lift drops from second ďŹ&#x201A;oor, injures two at Moose Lodge The elevator dropped from the upper level at the Anna Maria Island Moose Lodge with two men inside â&#x20AC;&#x201D; a fall one man described as â&#x20AC;&#x153;very horrific.â&#x20AC;? Cousins Steven Kaebanuk of Michigan and Peter Kaebanuk of Minnesota â&#x20AC;&#x153;were hospitalized and surgery was requiredâ&#x20AC;? as a result of the elevator fall at about 2 p.m. April 27, Steven Kaebanuk said May 1. The men were transported to Blake Medical Center in Bradenton by Manatee County Emergency Medical Services and released from the hospital as of May 1. Richard Lowes of Ruskin witnessed the incident. In line to ride the lift to the second-floor outdoor sundeck, Lowes said two men â&#x20AC;&#x153;got in front of he and

his wife and that averted tragedy for us.â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;It started going up, moving slowly and when it was almost to the top, I heard a buzzer and then it crashed to the groundâ&#x20AC;? about 20 feet, he said. Lowes said he called 911 and told Moose staff. Office manager Debbie Snook said she was working at the time of the crash. Snook said she didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t know how it happened, adding the chair lift is compliant with U.S. American with Disabilities Act and up-to-date on inspections. The incident is being investigated by the Mooseâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s insurance company, Snook said. â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Kathy Prucnell Manatee County Marine Rescue and Emergency Medical Services respond to a 911 call at about 2 p.m. April 27 from people in lift at the Anna Maria Island Moose Lodge, 110 Gulf Drive S., Bradenton Beach. Two men were transported to Blake Medical Center in Bradenton for back and leg injuries. Islander Photo: Tjet Martin

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22 n MAy 8, 2019 n THE ISLANDER

AME third-graders meet fearless birds

Anna Maria Elementary third-graders had the opportunity to see rehabilitated education owls up close May 3 thanks to Ed Straight. The president of Wildlife Inc. since 1987 wore thick gloves to protect his hands and arms from animal claws. “Thank you Ed for taking care of all the animals on the island,” said third-grade teacher Karen Paul. “When we first started doing this we were rehabbing dinosaurs,” joked David Sadkin, director of education of Wildlife Inc. in Bradenton Beach. Third-grader Sunny Owens asked, “How many

types of owls live in Florida?” Sadkin explained there were five species of owls found in Florida: Barn, burrowing, bard, screech and great-horned. “I’ve brought four out of five today to show you,” he said. Straight brought out a screech owl named Otie and because the students were instructed not to frighten the animals, there was a soft murmur of excitement. Sadkins said often when there are new housing developments, adult screech owls will vacate the area to find new homes, but baby owls often are left behind. “We have close to 150 baby screech owls brought in for rehabilitation every year,” said Sadkins. “Our grey-horned owl Athena has been with us for 16 years.” Every year, about 3,000 animals are brought in for rehabilitation to Wildlife Inc. “Have you ever found a panther?” asked thirdgrader Quinton Perkins. “No, but we have found plenty of bobcats here in Manatee County,” said Straight, a former Bradenton Beach city commissioner. For more information, contact Wildlife Inc. at 941778-6324.

Ed Straight, president of Wildlife Inc., a Bradenton Beach-based wildlife rescue and rehabilitation organization, shows a rehabilitated screech owl May 3 to AME third-graders. Anna Maria Elementary Battle of the Books participants gather May 3 with media specialist Lynne McDonough and guidance counselor Susan Tabicman.

Ed Straight, director of education for the nonprofit Wildlife Inc. and David Sadkin, discuss the bard owl perched on Straight’s wrist May 3 with AME thirdgraders and staff and parents — cellphone cameras in hand — in the auditorium. “Bard owls only eat rodents and often are used for pest control,” Sadkin says. Islander Photos: Brook Morrison

By Brook Morrison, brook@islander.org

RIGHT: AME fifth-grader Fiona McCarthy shows off her trophy for winning the Who Was Biography quiz and her third-place medal in the Battle of the Books, held May 3 in the school library.

Students compete in AME’s biggest book battle

AME calendar

• Through May 10, Staff Appreciation Week. • Wednesday, May 8, 8 a.m., bike to school day leaving from St. Bernard Catholic Church, 248 S. Harbor Drive, Holmes Beach. • Wednesday, May 8, 11 a.m., fourth-grade Beach Bistro lunch. • May 9-10, fifth-grade statewide science assessment. • Tuesday, May 14, 4:30-6 p.m., boys night out. • Thursday, May 16, 5:30-7:30 p.m., third-, fourth and fifth-grade student artwork reception, the Studio at Gulf and Pine, 10101, Anna Maria. • Friday, May 17, field day. • May 20-24, second- and third-grade English language assessments. • Tuesday, May 21, 5-6:30 p.m., kindergarten play and PTO dinner hosted by the Feast. • Wednesday, May 22, fifth-grade trip to Walt Disney World in Orlando. • Monday, May 27, no school, Memorial Day. • Tuesday, May 28, fifth-grade luncheon at The Sandbar, Holmes Beach. • May 28-29, 1:45 p.m., early release. • Wednesday, May 29, 9 a.m., fifth-grade awards and graduation. • Thursday, May 30, 1:45 p.m., early release, last day of school for students. Anna Maria Elementary is at 4700 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. For more information, call the school at 941708-5525.

The Anna Maria Elementary media center filled May 3 with students wearing red “read” T-shirts designed with artist Robert Indiana’s famous “LOVE” sculpture in mind. “There are so many of you,” said media specialist Lynne McDonough. “This has got to be the biggest Battle of the Books yet.” The literacy program began seven years ago for third- to fifth-grade students at AME. Students read books from Sunshine State Young Readers, the Great Illustrated Classics and the Who Was Biography lists. Students who read a book and passed a quiz received a charm. Nearer the end of the school year, the students who earned eight charms or more received T-shirts. This year’s Battle of the Book winners are fifthgraders Aiden Gitt, Skyler Dubats and Fiona McCarthy. Fourth-grader Garrett Nock was cheered for win-

ning a trophy in the Great Illustrated Classics quiz after he went head-to-head with fellow classmate Olivia Inda. AME fifth-grader Fiona McCarthy won the Who Was Biography quiz and Skylar Dubats took home a prize for the Sunshine State Young Readers quiz. The readers gathered together for a group photo to remember AME’s biggest Battle of the Book and celebrated with doughnuts from the Donut Experiment.

AME staffers thanked with good eats

Anna Maria Elementary students and parents are set to spoil AME staff and teachers by providing lunch through May 10 during Staff Appreciation Week. The AME Parent-Teacher Organization was to provide a catered lunch from the Waterfront Restaurant May 6. A Mexican-themed lunch was being planned for May 7 by the kindergarten and fifth-grade classes. “It’s one of the staff’s favorite weeks of the year, as you can imagine,” AME school administrator Shiela Zinks said. First- and third-grade parents will donate soup and salad May 8, while the May 9 meal will be Italian food provided by the second- and fourth-grade classes.

“I knew Alice in Wonderland gets attacked by monkeys,” says fourth-grader Sariah Rounds as she smiles May 3 during the Battle of the Books celebration. Islander Photos: Brook Morrison

THE ISLANDER n MAy 8, 2019 n 23

The gym at the Center of Anna Maria Island transforms into a dining establishment May 5 for Color Splash — a Night of Warhol, a benefit for the Anna Maria Elementary-Parent Teacher Organization. Islander Photo: Courtesy Nicole Plummer

AME teachers Terri Ruise, Laura Redeker and Pam Buff pose with bartender Patrick Russo at the “chillounge” circle at the gala. Islander Photo: Nenita Daguinotas

AME parents and spring gala organizers Janae Rudacille, left, and Nicole Plummer get the party started on the dance ﬂoor at the AME-PTO spring gala May 5. Islander Photo: Courtesy Nicole Plummer

Anna Maria Elementary parent Lindy Gilbert and friend arrive in style for Color Splash — a Night of Warhol May 5 at the Parent-Teacher Organization’s spring gala. Islander Photo: Nenita Daguinotas

Strawberry cheesecake, chocolate chip cookies and Key lime pie in mason jars await patrons May 5 at the AME-PTO spring gala. Islander Photo: Courtesy Nicole Plummer Angela Wiles, Ashley Chiles, Brandi Walker and Monica Christen take a break from dancing at Color Splash — a Night of Warhol. Islander Photo: Nenita Daguinotas

Ivory Graham, left, Terri Ruise, Holmes Beach Police Chief Bill Tokajer and wife Thea support the AME-PTO spring gala — the biggest fundraiser of the year for the island school. Islander Photo: Nenita Daguinotas The firestone pizza truck arrives ready to feed partygoers May 5 at the Anna Maria Elementary PTO spring gala at the Center of Anna Maria Island. Islander Photo: Courtesy Nicole Plummer

AME principal Jackie Featherston peruses auction items at the May 5 AME-PTO gala. More than 100 items were donated, including class projects. Islander Photo: Nenita Daguinotas

24 n MAy 8, 2019 n THE ISLANDER

Holmes Beach commissioners address sea level rise

By ChrisAnn Silver Esformes Islander Reporter Impending sea level rise is a planning concern for Anna Maria Island municipalities. At an April 23 meeting, Holmes Beach Commissioners unanimously approved the second reading of an ordinance amending the coastal management and sea level rise portion of the city’s comprehensive plan. The first reading was approved in August 2018 by the commission and submitted to the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity, which responded with objections, recommendations and comments in a report stating certain requirements were not addressed. The state said subsections of the sea level rise plan did not address the removal of structures from

Streetlife

By Sandy Ambrogi

Island police reports

Anna Maria April 20, 600 block of Alameda Road, possession of less than 20 grams, possession of drug paraphernalia. An officer observed two people in a truck and detected the odor of marijuana. A search recovered less than 20 grams of cannabis and drug paraphernalia. The officer issued citations. April 26, 503 Pine Ave., Anna Maria General Store, trespass. The owner of the Anna Maria General Store reported a woman sitting on the store patio and harassing patrons. She was trespassed for 12 months from the property. She boarded a trolley and left. Anna Maria is policed by MCSO. Bradenton Beach April 22, 103 Gulf Drive, Circle K, trespass warning. A man left his backpack outside the store and as he left, the backpack was gone. He demanded the clerk look at the video surveillance. When the clerk refused, the man threatened him. Police were called and issued

coastal flood zones, reducing losses due to flooding and flood insurance claims and establishing floodresistant construction consistent with or more stringent than the Florida Building Code. In 2015, the state enacted legislation requiring local governments with a coastal element in their comp plans to adopt criteria addressing sea level rise. According to state statute, the peril of flood component must include engineering solutions that reduce flood risk in coastal areas, encourage the removal of vulnerable coastal property, such as mobile homes, from flood zones and incorporate site development techniques and best practices to reduce flood losses. City planner Bill Brisson and city engineer Lynn Burnett worked with DEO staff to write the comp plan amendment to meet legislative requirements.

The amended plan includes policies and objectives to encourage the use of best practices, such as procurement by the city of repetitive flood loss properties to be used as open space, and site plan review for new construction that meets or exceeds Federal Emergency Management Agency and Florida Building Code floodplain management requirements. The amendments stipulate that vulnerable shoreline and adjacent areas will be preserved in accordance with the Florida Department of Environmental Protection and the Southwest Florida Water Management District regulations. Additionally, the plan states the city will work to reduce losses due to flooding by maximizing unpaved landscaping, encouraging appropriate plantings and employing mitigation strategies for stormwater.

a trespass warning to the man. April 25, 200 block of Bay Drive North, vehicle burglary. A man told BBPD a checkbook with no more than 25 blank checks was stolen from his vehicle. Two checks had been cashed at an Amscot in Bradenton for a total of $475. April 25, 115 Bridge St., Fish Hole Miniature Golf, stolen property. A man reported his cellphone was stolen while he was playing miniature golf. The GPS tracking located the phone on Longboat Key, and a Longboat Key officer searched the area, but did not find the phone. April 26, 2506 block of Avenue B, property damage. A man reported damage to his vehicle parked in the alley behind a residence. An estimated $2,000 in damage was done to the front bumper, hood and front grill. Bradenton Beach is policed by BBPD. Cortez No reports. Cortez is policed by MCSO. Holmes Beach April 25, 5626 Gulf Drive, Harrington House

Beachfront Bed and Breakfast Inn, theft. The owner of Harrington House reported a black bicycle valued at $250 was stolen from a tenant at the property. April 27, 5416 Marina Drive, Restless Natives, criminal mischief. An employee of another business in the Island Shopping Center reported two men wrestling in front of Restless Natives, breaking the storefront glass window, then leaving. The damage was estimated by officers at about $800. The management for the center responded and secured the business. April 27, 3900 block East Bay Drive, outstanding warrant. A man was observed by officers yelling at people at the trolley stop. When officers checked his information, it was determined he had an outstanding Manatee County warrant. He was taken into custody and transported to the Manatee County jail. Holmes Beach is policed by HBPD. Streetlife is based on incident reports and narratives from the BBPD, HBPD and MCSO.

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THE ISLANDER n May 8, 2019 n 25

26 n MAy 8, 2019 n THE ISLANDER

Golf tourney raises $9,000-plus for animal rescue

Golf, food and fun helped a good cause April 27. Around 100 people attended the Moonracer No Kill Animal Rescue annual golf tournament at Terra Ceia Bay Golf & Country Club in Palmetto, raising more than $8,500 to support the rescue and foster of dogs and cats. Four-person golf teams set off on the short course with a shotgun start in the morning and returned to the

clubhouse after 18 holes for lunch. Mickey Macracken, Bob Chapman, Karen Chapman and Tom Stratton won first place. John Sauriol, Joey Poklemba, Craig Kaplan and Kurt Reichâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s group took second place. The team of Josh Kersey, Jonathan Stitt, Hambone Probst and Capt. Rob McCall came in third. John Metz sponsored the Hole-in-One Challengeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s $2,000 cash prize, but no one made the shot, and the money was contributed to Moonracer. Lunch ended with trophies for the top three teams, as well as raffle prize drawings and silent auction Rows of prizes, including tickets to Busch Gardens, were rafďŹ&#x201A;ed at the end of lunch April 27 at the results. Moonracer annual golf tournament. â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Ryan Paice Golfers mingle before heading off to play 18 holes at Terra Ceia Bay Golf & Country Club April 27 for Moonracerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s annual golf tournament.

The team of Jonathan Stitt, Capt. Rob McCall, Joshua Kersey and Hambone Probst took third place April 27 at the Moonracer annual golf tournament at Terra Ceia Bay Golf & Country Club in Palmetto. Islander Photos: Toni Lyon

You can read it all online at www.islander.org

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By Lisa Neff

Spring squall brings disaster

She referred to a “thunderstorm.” He recalled a “squall.” The newspaper account reported a “gale.” I wondered: Just what were the weather conditions early May 9, 1980, when the Summit Venture rammed the Sunshine Skyway Bridge, destroying the support pier and causing 1,297 feet of bridge deck and superstructure to fall 150 feet into Tampa Bay, as did a passenger bus, a pickup truck and six autos. Thirty-five people died in the disaster. Neff I read multiple news accounts about the disaster — some from the days immediately after, others reporting on subsequent investigations and then the anniversary articles — and all of them referred to severe weather that morning. But I still had questions about the details. Then I came across the National Transportation Safety Board’s marine accident report from March 1981 — 58 pages about the government investigation, 58 pages of facts, details, conclusions, and an entire section titled “meteorological information.” The morning of May 9, 1980, southern Florida was under the influence of a moist tropical air mass with a southwesterly flow over the Gulf of Mexico, generating a line of thunderstorms that passed over the Tampa Bay region — “intense” storms, according to the NTSB. The report refers to a line of intense rain showers 65 nautical miles north of Tampa at 4:30 a.m., then scattered thundershowers, followed by more intense thunderstorm activity 115 nautical miles west of Tampa at 5:30 a.m., and a line of intense storms about

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zero — before the accident. The NWS had issued a convective SIGMET — Significant Meteorological Advisory — for coastal Florida that morning. Such warnings are issued for tornadoes and intense thunderstorms, but while SIGMETs were readily available for aviation in 1980, they were less available to mariners. The forecasts for mariners that morning from the NWS warned small-craft sailors to exercise caution due to possible high winds, higher seas and scattered thunderstorms. In its findings, the NTSB concluded those forecasts were substantially in error, not reflecting the severity of the approaching storms. The report contains much more information about the drivers of the vehicles, how they left the bridge, how 35 people died; about the Summit Venture pilot and crew and how they operated; about the bridge The cover of the National Transportation Safety structure and maintenance; and about precautions to Board’s marine accident report for the “ramming of the Sunshine Skyway Bridge by the Liberian bulk prevent another Skyway disaster. The report contains so many numbers, calculations carrier Summit Venture.” The disaster occurred May and times, but I find myself, seeking some comfort, 9, 1980, in Tampa Bay. Islander Courtesy Graphic dwelling on one. On the day of the accident, the sun rose at 6:54 65 nautical miles west of Tampa moving at about 32 a.m. knots at 6:30 a.m. A photograph of a National Weather Service radar taken at 7:13 a.m. shows the leading edge of the heaviWeather words est thunderstorm activity about 9 nautical miles west of the Sunshine Skyway Bridge. Storm: Any disturbed state of the atmosphere, A photograph of radar taken at 7:43 a.m., nine especially affecting the Earth’s surface and strongly minutes after the Summit Venture hit the bridge, shows implying destructive or unpleasant weather. Storms the intense storm activity east of the bridge. range in scale from tornadoes and thunderstorms The NWS office at Tampa International Airport to tropical cyclones to synoptic-scale extratropical monitored a gust recorder, which documented high cyclones. winds from 7:02 a.m. to 7:45 a.m., with wind at 23 Thunderstorm: A local storm produced by a knots at 7:41 a.m. A Gulf Coast Weather Service cumulonimbus cloud and accompanied by lightobserver recorded a wind gust of 60 mph at 7:35 a.m. ning and thunder. 13 nautical miles south of the bridge. Squall: A strong wind characterized by a At 7:25 a.m., “it was blowing a gale” in the Egmont sudden onset in which the wind speed increases at channel, the pilot of the outbound Good Sailor later least 16 knots and is sustained at 22 knots or more testified. He estimated the wind was at 60-70 mph and for at least a minute. said, “The water was white it was blowing so hard.” Gale: An extratropical low or an area of susThe pilot of another outbound vessel, the Pure Oil, tained surface winds of 34-47 knots — 34 knots is told the NTSB that at the time the Summit Venture 39.127 mph. rammed the bridge, he encountered a “vicious thunderTropical storm: A tropical cyclone in which the rain squall,” and the wind change was “almost instanmaximum 1-minute sustained surface wind ranges taneous, from a light breeze to 50-60 mph. from 34-63 knots inclusive. The pilot-trainee on the Summit Venture testified Hurricane: A tropical cyclone in the Atlantic, that the squall on the radar initially seemed like what’s Caribbean Sea, Gulf of Mexico or eastern Pacific “so common down here. … There was nothing that was in which the maximum 1-minute sustained surface alarming about it at all.” wind is 64 knots or greater. Then the winds reached “in excess of 60 knots,” Source: National Weather Service, weather. with a driving rain and visibility was probably less gov than 500 feet for several minutes — and possibly near

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Youth, adult soccer leagues heat up at the center’s pitch

By Kevin P. Cassidy Islander Reporter After four weeks of action, it appears Beach House Real Estate and Freckled Fin are the teams to beat in the 8-10 division of the kids’ spring soccer league at the Center of Anna Maria Island. Beach House is running in first place with a 3-0-1 record with Freckled Fin close behind at 2-0-2. ACE Hardware follows at 1-2-1, while Cassidy Ugly Grouper completes the division standings with an 0-4 mark. Beach House and Freckled Fin battled to a 2-2 tie to open the 8-10 action April 30. Dennis Gallagher scored a pair of goals to lead Beach House, which received 14 combined saves in the tie from Jack Whiteside, Magness Rollins and Cala Ryan. Duncan Cloutier led Freckled Fin with two goals and Cale Rudacille notched 11 saves in goal to help preserve the tie. The second match of the evening saw ACE Hardware edge Ugly Grouper by a 2-1 score. Jack McCarthy scored twice on assists from Johnny Monetti, while Jack Zaccagnino made fives saves in the victory. Savanna Coba scored the lone goal for Ugly Grouper, which also received seven saves from Alexander Teich in the loss. The three-team 11-15 division standings are tight with Lancaster Design and CABB Cleaning both sitting on 3-2-1 records. Not far behind is Lazy Turtle at 1-3-1. Anything can happen in this division. Action April 30 saw Lazy Turtle tie Lancaster 4-4 thanks to 15 saves from goalie Victor Albrecht. Jackson Pakbaz provided the majority of the offense with three goals, while Thomas Phipott added a goal to the tie. Frank Coleman and Ewen Cloutier scored two goals each to lead Lancaster, which also received six saves each from Caden Quimby and Aiden Templeton.

ACE Hardware defender Jazzy Sparks, right, settles the ball as Ugly Grouper forward Sterling Holiday sets up to challenge for the ball April 30 in the Center of Anna Maria Island soccer league 8-10 division. Islander Photos: Kevin P. Cassidy

ings with a 3-0-0 record, while Jiffy Lube at 2-0-0 is right on their heels. Blalock Walters holds third place with a 2-0-1 record, while Duncan Real Estate and Ross Built are tied for fourth. Flynn Law and Solid Rock Construction are in sixth place, followed by Sato Real Estate, which holds down the eighth spot. Moss Builders and Beach House Real Estate are tied at ninth with 0-2-0 records. Action May 2 kicked off with Gulfview Windows and Doors earning a 4-3 win over Flynn Law behind four goals from Keith Mahoney. Jose Ubiola Bolanos chipped in with two assists and Jordan Demers made 13 saves to preserve the victory. Kevin Roman notched three goals and Mark Rudacille made 10 saves for Flynn Law in the loss. Ross Built rolled to an 8-1 victory over Sato in the second match of the night behind a hat trick from Vince Circharo and two goals from Greg Ross. Connor Bystrom, Chris Circharo and Jessica Williams each notched a goal and John Haggerty and Max Gazzo Adult soccer underway, too Three teams are undefeated and three teams are combined on 12 saves in goal. Murap Akay scored the lone goal for Sato, which searching for victory in the adult soccer league at the received 11 saves from Lyn Clarke, Josh Sato and center. Gulfview Windows and Doors is atop the stand- Steve Wertovitch in the loss. Blalock Walters edged Solid Rock Construction 3-1 on goals from Stephen Perry, Matt Plummer and Matt Staggs. Staggs also added an assist in the victory, while Scott Rudacille chipped in 14 saves. Ryan Hogan scored Solid Rock’s only goal and Benjamin Sato and Zachary Long combined to make 18 saves in the loss. The late match saw Jiffy Lube ride a balanced offense to outscore Duncan Real Estate 7-4. Stetson Mathews led the onslaught with two goals, while Anil Akbulut, Ricky Anderson and Omar Polar each had a goal and an assist. Daniel Anderson and Sean Flynn completed the scoring with a goal each, while goalie Robb Marshall finished with 10 saves in the victory. Joey Hutchinson notched three goals to lead Duncan, which also received a goal from Cassandra and 12 saves from Trey Horne in the loss.

Lazy Turtle player Nicholas Yatros pushes forward and splits Lancaster Design defenders Aiden Templeton and Kieran Cloutier in 11-15 division soccer action at the center. Southernaire Fishing Charters

Key Royale golf news It was another busy week for golfers at the Key Royale Club in Holmes Beach, starting with a men’s nine-hole modified-Stableford system match April 29. Jerry Dahl earned clubhouse bragging rights with a score of plus-3, while Buddy Foy and Tim Friessen tied for second place at plus-2. The women were on the course April 30 for a ninehole, individual-low-net match in four flights.

THE ORIGINAL BAIT BOAT IS BACK!

Judy Christensen fired an even-par 32 to take the top spot in Flight A. Pam Lowry was a stroke back in second and Phyllis Roe took third on a 2-over-par 34. Marcia Helgeson’s 1-under-par 31 gave her first place in Flight B, just ahead of Connie Livanos and Cathy Rice, who tied for second with matching evenpar 32s. Roxanne Koche torched the field with a 9-underpar 23 for first place in Flight C. Jana Samuels took second with a 5-under-par 27, while Sue Christensen was another stroke back in third place. Flight D saw Marty Clark, Sue Powers and Amy Tripp all card 4-under-par 28s to finish in a three-way tie for first place. The men were back on the course May 2 for a nine-hole scramble that saw the team of Jim Auch, Brian Comer and Fred Miller combine to win on a 5-under-par 27. Horseshoe news Two teams emerged from pool play to reign over the May 1 horseshoe action at the Anna Maria City Hall horseshoe pits. Rod Bussey and Hank Huyghe cruised to the winner’s circle, posting a 21-0 shutout over Sam Samuels and Tom Skoloda. Bussey was back in the winner’s circle May 4. He teamed up with Bob Heiger to post the lone 3-0 record in pool play for an outright win. Play gets underway at 9 a.m. every Wednesday and Saturday at the Anna Maria City Hall pits. Warmups begin at 8:45 a.m. followed by random team selection. There is no charge to play and everyone is welcome. Manatee Magic sets tryouts Young soccer enthusiasts looking to play at the competitive level are welcome to try out for the Manatee Magic soccer team. Tryouts are at G.T. Bray Park, 5502 33rd Ave. Drive W., Bradenton. There is no charge to try out. The player fee for the season, if selected, is $$550. To register for the tryouts and learn more about Manatee Magic and the Manatee Area Youth Soccer Organization, go online to mayso.org. Tryout dates are as follows: May 13: U10 boys & girls (2010-11birth years). May 14: U11 & U12 boys & girls (2008-09). May 15: U13 & U14 boys & girls (2006-07). May 16: U15 & above (2001-2005). Second tryouts May 18: U10 10-11 a.m., U11 and U12 11 a.m.-noon, U13 and U14 1-2 p.m., and U15U18 2-3 p.m.

Anna Maria Island Tides

Date

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On the water at the Kingfish Boat Ramp CALL AHEAD:

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May 8 May 9 May 10 May 11 May 12 May 13 May 14 May 15

2:54a 2:38p 3:35p 4:51p 9:25a 9:42a 10:03a 10:26a

HIGH

1.5 2.6 2.4 2.2 1.6 1.7 1.9 2.0

1:49p — — — 6:35p 8:22p 9:49p 11:01p

HIGH

2.3 7:35a — 11:06p — — — 12:13a 2.0 1:19a 1.9 2:18a 1.8 3:09a 1.8 3:51a

LOW

0.8 -0.3 — -0.3 -0.2 0.0 0.2 0.4

9:09p — — — 12:50p 2:33p 3:44p 4:41p

-0.2 — — — 1.4 1.1 0.8 0.4

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

Moon

1st

THE ISLANDER n MAy 8, 2019 n 29

May brings more catch-and-release fishing restrictions

By Capt. Danny Stasny Islander Reporter Conservation is the name of the game. So if you’re looking to put fish in the cooler, your options just narrowed. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission has ordered snook and redfish closed to harvest through May 2020. The same now applies to spotted seatrout. Catch-and-release snook and redfish Stasny already is in effect locally and spotted seatrout become catch-and-release May 11. This new rule applies to waters south of the Pasco-Hernando county line through Gordon Pass in Collier County. The purpose is to give the sought-after fisheries a fair chance to recover from the fall 2018 red tide. As we transition from spring to summer, expect fishing to heat up around Anna Maria Island. Catch-and-release snook fishing is stellar on the flats, and will be hot along the Gulf beaches. As we progress through May, the snook will migrate from the mangroves and back country to take up residence in preparation for their spawn along the passes and beaches. Catching snook along the beaches is exciting because you are sight-casting to the fish. Even better: You get to sight cast to some large fish — some 30-40 inches. Working the beach for linesiders allows you to use fairly light tackle, because there is no interference with structure. The large fish can run up and down the beach, but never find anything to cut your line. Still, the linesiders thrash and can readily cut lines with their razor-sharp serrated gill plates, so there’s some skill involved in landing a big snook. Another occurrence in May is the arrival of tarpon. You’ll most likely see the resident silver kings showing

in Tampa Bay now and, later in the month, you’ll see the migratory fish along the beaches. If you haven’t done it already, now is the time to break out the tarpon gear and make sure everything is up to par. When dealing with a large fish, you want to make sure your tackle is operating at full capacity. These fish will put it to the test. On my Southernaire charters, I’m concentrating on spotted seatrout. Free-lining live shiners over deep grass flats is producing decent numbers of these popular fish. Sometimes, when the bite is slow, I’m adding a split shot to the rig, which puts the bait right in front of their noses and triggers the strikes. While targeting trout, I’m seeing Spanish mackerel and ladyfish, which adds a variety to the bite. On the shallower flats, catch-and-release snook action is good. Free-lining live shiners around mangrove shorelines is producing some great action, especially during high tides. Jim Malfese at the Rod & Reel Pier is seeing an ever-increasing number of catch-and-release snook taking up residence around the pier. As spring turns to summer, these fish will migrate toward the Gulf beaches, and what better place to stop and take a break than at the Rod & Reel Pier. Live shiners work well as bait, as well as pinfish, ladyfish, mojarras. And when these aren’t working, you can rely on a large, live shrimp to get the job done. Also on the hook at the pier: ladyfish, mackerel and jack crevalle. These species are being caught when large schools of bait are around the pier. Lastly, flounder, mangrove snapper and a couple of catch-and-release redfish are being caught on live shrimp. Capt. Aaron Lowman is fishing the backcountry of Tampa Bay and its adjacent waters to the east. Targeting catch-and-release snook is a go-to right now for Lowman as the fish provide great action on light

tackle and are abundant on the flats. Casting live shiners around oyster bars, grass flats and especially mangrove shorelines yields great results on fish 20-30 inches. In the same areas as the snook, Lowman is hooking into catch-and-release redfish. The reds seem to be meandering down the shorelines mixed in with schools of mullet, and casting live shiners around the mullet is attracting a bite. Moving to slightly deeper flats, Lowman is finding spotted seatrout. Most catches are in the slot of 15-20 inches. Lastly, Lowman is catching the beginning of the inshore mangrove snapper bite. Fishing structure in Tampa Bay is beginning to turn on. Capt. Warren Girle is working his charters on nearshore and offshore structure. Mangrove snapper and Key West grunts are being caught around ledges in 30-50 feet of water, where live shiners combined when a knocker rig work well. On the surface are kingfish and bonito. To catch these high-activity fish, Girle is free-lining live shiners on a long shank hook. When the kings are abundant and in a frenzy, he is adding a wire rig to the long shank hook. Moving inshore, catch-and-release snook are the primary bite. Catch-and-release reds also are being caught, especially around oyster bars and docks. Lastly, spotted seatrout and mackerel are being taken while fishing the deeper grass flats. Capt. David White of Anna Maria Charters is on patrol offshore. Bottom fishing with live bait on the surface around offshore wrecks and reefs is providing good action on mangrove and yellowtail snapper, as well as red grouper. Using dead sardines is working as bait, especially for the grouper. Blackfin tuna are in abundance offshore and White is finding numerous candidates interested in his bait. He said live shiners PLEASE SEE FisHing, PAGE 31

Christopher Coyle, 13, vacationing in April on Anna Maria Island from New York, shows off a redfish, sheepshead, black drum and mangrove snapper, all caught using frozen shrimp as bait.

Fishing Charters Capt. Warren Girle

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Island market ﬂip, easy Sunday mornings

Missing Sunday service? Just watch online Sometimes it’s hard to get going for Sunday morning church services. But Christ Church of Longboat Key has a way to help. The 10 a.m. service is broadcast live on YouTube for people to watch the Rev. Norman Pritchard’s sermons from home. No excuses for missing out now. It’s good business. Good use of the internet and good for those who may be homebound. Log onto www.christchurchlbk.org and follow the link to the broadcast. For more information, call 941-383-8833. Christ Church of Longboat Key is located at 6400 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key. Island Fresh gets fresh new owner The Island Fresh Market, 5604 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, has changed hands. Darcie Andersen, from the Chicago area, purchased the store from Nancy Feely. The market features seafood, oysters and clams, as well as locally sourced items such as AMI Sea Salt and fresh vegetables from Geraldson’s Family Farms in Bradenton. Waterline seeking workers at job fair The Waterline Marina Resort and Beach Club in Holmes Beach is seeking workers to fill a variety of positions. The resort will hold a job fair 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Wednesday, May 15, at the resort, 5325 Marina Drive, welcoming applicants for full- and part-time positions in housekeeping, food and beverage and more. For more information, visit waterlineresort.com or call the resort at 941-238-6262. Stay busy, islanders!

2019 tourism ambassador award-winner named

One is well-known in local culinary circles. The other is tasked with running the performing arts center in Bradenton. Liza Kubik and Janene Amick were singled out May 3 for improving tourism in Manatee County, earning awards from the Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau during an afternoon cruise aboard the two-deck paddlewheeler Anna Maria Princess out of Bradenton Beach.

Kubik, active in culinary and special events throughout the area, received the 2019 Tourism Ambassador Award. The honor is given by the BACVB to a person who best represents the area as a destination. Kubik serves on the board for the Sarasota-Manatee Originals, a group of 50-plus locally owned restaurants. She previously served as marketing director for the Seafood Shack Marina Bar and Grill in Cortez and also served on the Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce board of directors. Kubik was instrumental in creating the Cortez Passport campaign for the businesses in the village. “It took Liza to bring it to life,” Dan Alderson said of Kubik, at the passport launch event in 2018. Karen Riley-Love, the 2018 recipient, presented Kubik with the award. Amick was presented the Ed Hunzeker Hospitality Leadership Award. She is chief executive officer of the Manatee Performing Arts Center. Hunzeker, who recently retired from his position as Manatee County administrator, made the presentation. PLEASE SEE TouRisM, NEXT PAGE Wende Webb, left, Barbara McAleer, Katy Demick, tourism ambassador winner Liza Kubik, Casey Hoffman, Linda Baal Burke and Karen Riley-Love pose with a life preserver May 3 for tourism week. The group was aboard the Anna Maria Princess for an excursion on the Intracoastal Waterway put on by the BACVB. Islander Courtesy Photo

Visit Florida gets reprieve from Legislature

The big Florida tourism machine got a reprieve from defunding from the Legislature. House and Senate negotiators April 28 agreed to extend Visit Florida’s funding until June 30, 2020, pushing $50 million into the agency’s coffers. Gov. Ron DeSantis requested that Visit Florida stay active so he could assess the tourism organization. Lawmakers gave DeSantis two-thirds of the funding he requested, $26 million less than the governor’s $76 million recommendation. Visit Florida is the state’s official tourism planning source and its mission is to promote tourism. For example, Visit Florida has committed to boosting airline marketing for the Sarasota-Bradenton Inter-

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national Airport. The Bradenton Area Convention and Visitor’s Bureau and Visit Florida entered an agreement March 25, in which Visit Florida will contribute up to $100,000 for marketing new flight routes to SRQ. Funding issues for Visit Florida have been front and center for several years, and the House wanted to provide just $19 million to cover expenses until Oct. 1, effectively eliminating the agency if it was not reauthorized under state law. Visit Florida states on its website — visitflorida. org — that visitors spent $112 billion in 2018 and supported 1.4 million Florida jobs. The agency says 126.1 million people visited Florida in 2018.

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PROVIDING SALES & RENTALS ON ANNA MARIA ISLAND

Maria Christenson

4121 Osprey Harbour Loop

REALTOR®

$489,000 | A4208963

941.920.3583

Enjoy this beautiful, three-bedroom villa inside the gates of desirable Harbour Landings! Nestled in the historic waterfront fishing village of Cortez Walking distance to beach and island dining 1 mile from Anna Maria Island

MARIANNE, ROCHELLE, LISA, CARLA, SALLY

mikenormanrealty.com 941-778-6696

4400 Manatee Ave W Bradenton, FL 34209 michaelsaunders.com

MariaChristenson@michaelsaunders.com MariaChristenson.michaelsaunders.com

THE ISLANDER n May 8, 2019 n 31

BizCal

Tourism continued from page 30 compiled bY Sandy Ambrogi The afternoon boat excursion was part of National Tourism Week. Elliott Falcione, executive director of AMI CHAMBER OF COMMERCE the BACVB, told the group of county dignitaries, tourism council members, hoteliers, local restaurant Friday, May 17 owners and others aboard, that tourism has an annual 11:30 a.m. — 20th Annual Chamber Golf Tournament, IMG economic impact of more than $1.29 billion in Mana- Academy Golf Club, 4350 El Conquistador Parkway, Bradenton. tee County. Wednesday, May 22 Liza Kubik shows off her Tourism Ambassador Award. She was named the 2019 winner May 3 by the Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau. Islander Photo: Karen Riley-Love Fishing continued from page 29 on the surface are working well. Moving inshore, catch-and-release snook are the primary bite, although catch-and-release redfish and spotted seatrout are taking the hook. Capt. Jason Stock is finding the blackfin tuna bite is exceptional and irresistible. Targeting these high-speed torpedoes with live baits such as shiners or goggle eyes works well. Lipped plugs and other artificial baits rapidly stripped along the surface can trigger a strike. While targeting tuna, Stock is encountering numerous kingfish. Switching tactics to bottom fishing is proving well for Stock, too, as mangrove and yellowtail snapper are in abundance offshore. Goliath grouper also are being found while bottom fishing. Finally, drifting live crabs over offshore wrecks is luring some of the elusive permit to take a bait. Send high-resolution photos and fishing reports to fish@islander.org.

LONGBOAT KEY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Wednesday, May 8 11:30 a.m. — Networking lunch, Beach House Restaurant, 200 Gulf Drive N., Bradenton Beach. Members $25, guests $35. Tuesday, May 21 5:30 p.m. — Business After Hours, The Fish Hole, 117 Bridge St., Bradenton Beach. Members $5, guests $10. 5 p.m. — Business mixer, Hancock Whitney Bank, 5324 Gulf Thursday, May 30 Drive, Holmes Beach. Members $5, guests $10. RSVPs requested 3:15 p.m. —17th Annual Disaster Preparedness Seminar, Harby the chamber. bourside Ballroom, The Resort at Longboat Key Club, 3000 HarAMI chamber information: 941-778-1541, info@amichamber. bourside Drive, Longboat Key. org. LBK chamber information: 941-383-2466, info@lkbchamber. com.

FWC extends red tide fisheries conservation measures

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission May 1 extended several fisheries management conservation measures for red drum, snook and spotted seatrout in areas of southwest Florida impacted by a prolonged red tide that occurred from November 2017 through mid-February 2019. The bout of red tide was first reported on Anna Maria Island in August 2018. The extension for red drum, snook and spotted seatrout was to go into effect May 11 and apply from the Pasco-Hernando county line south through Gordon Pass in Collier County. The extension includes all waters of Tampa Bay. Previously approved catch-and-release measures, including no harvest of spotted seatrout more than 20 inches, were to remain in effect through May 10. The changes for May 11 include: • Snook and red drum will remain catch-andrelease only for an additional year, through May 31, 2020. • Spotted seatrout will be catch-and-release only, including no commercial harvest, through May 31, 2020. FWC staff will revisit the snook extension in early 2020.

A map from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission shows the catch-and-release area for red drum, snook and spotted seatrout. Islander Courtesy Image

DO YOU HAVE A DREAM HOME?

LET’S MAKE DREAMS COME TRUE AT THE ESTUARY.

BUILD YOUR DREAM HOME ON THIS BEAUTIFUL HOMESITE.

A SPRAWLING 1.5-ACRE HOMESITE

•

Customizable home

•

Minutes from Anna Maria Island

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Exclusive Gated Community

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Coveted Northwest Bradenton location

CALL US TODAY OR VISIT BY APPOINTMENT ONLY

941.216.6355

NEALSIGNATUREHOMES.COM

32 n MAy 8, 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

BOATS & BOATING

WINE COOLER A/C or 12-volt, $50. Minifridge, $40. Chairs, $5 each. 941-3561456.

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 1-866-362-9821. (limited time offer)

BIMINI BAY SAILING: Small sailboat rentals and instruction. Day. Week. Month. Sunfish, Laser, Windrider 17 and Precision 15. Call Brian at 941-685-1400.

50-GALLON AQUARIUM, $59, 50-gallon aquarium stand, $34. Seven fish, $79 for all fish. 727-999-1011.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

50-GALLON AQUARIUM $44, heavy-duty stand, $24, seven exotic fish, up to 11-inches long, $64/all. 727-999-1011.

WANTED: WORKOUT DVDs and retired but working XBox, Wii units with games for Ministry of Presence for kids and teens in Haiti. Deliver to The Islander, 3218 E. Bay Drive, Holmes Beach.

HUFFY BEACH CRUISERS Bicycles. Two 26-inch, one male/one female, $100 for pair. 281-731-9294.

WANTED: YOUR OLD cellphone for recycling. Deliver to The Islander, 3218 E. Bay Drive, Holmes Beach.

ANTIQUE PARTNER DESK: All wood, $1,000. Four wood antique office chairs: Perfect for eclectic dining set. See at The Islander office, 3218 E. Bay Drive, Holmes Beach. 941-778-7978.

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

Sandy’s Lawn Service Inc. ESTABLISHED IN 1983

Residential & Commercial Full-service lawn maintenance. Landscaping ~ Cleanups Hauling ~ Tree Trimming. LICENSED & INSURED

Paradise Improvements

GARAGE SALES

941.792.5600

Kitchen and Bath Remodeling Specialist Replacement Doors and Windows

Andrew Chennault

FULLY LICENSED AND INSURED Island References Lic#CBC056755

RDI CONSTRUCTION INC.

CBC 1253471

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

Residential & Condo Renovations Kitchens • Bath • Design Service Carpentry • Flooring • Painting Commercial & Residential

References available • 941-720-7519

AdoptA-Pet

ROSER THRIFT SHOP and annex open 9:30 a.m.- 2 p.m. Tuesday, Thursday, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday. Donations preferred 9 a.m.-11 a.m., Wednesdays. 511 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Call 941-779-2733.

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JOB FAIR AT the Waterline Resort 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Wednesday, May 15. Seeking: housekeeping, front desk hosts full-and part-time, bartenders full-and part-time, servers fulland part-time, banquet team part-time, food and beverage supervisor, front desk host supervisor, stewards full-time. Business casual, bring resume. 5325 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach.

LOOKING FOR AN EARLY BIRD? You can read Wednesday’s classifieds on Tuesday at www.islander.org. And it’s FREE!

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REPORTER WANTED: Full- to part-time. Print media, newspaper experience required. Apply via email with letter of interest to news@islander.org. KIDS FOR HIRE KIDS FOR HIRE ads are FREE for up to three weeks for Island youths under 16 looking for work. Ads must be placed in person at The Islander office, 3218 E. Bay Drive, Holmes Beach.

Hospitality Job Fair L A N S

HOUSEKEEPER: 30-40 HOURS per week. Must know how to handle daily housekeeping operations for a small motel. Must speak English and be a non-smoker. Family owned motel, great place to work. Tom at 941-7785405.

LOST AND FOUND

HELP RESCUED PETS! Volunteer, foster, have fun! Moonracer Animal Rescue. Email: moonraceranimalrescue@gmail.com.