The Islander Newspaper E-Edition: Wednesday, November 14, 2018 by The Anna Maria Islander Newspaper

Pine Avenue reborn. 16 Astheworldterns hope to attract wildlife. 6

Saluting veterans. 20

‘Surf music.’ 21 NOV. 14, 2018 FREE

VOLUME 27, NO. 3

Island officials hope to relocate coyotes. 2

Meetings

On the government calendar. 4

Op-Ed

The Islander editorial, reader letters. 6

10-20 YEARS AGO

From the archives. 7

Anna Maria finalizes landscape rules. 10

Happenings

Community announcements, activities. 12-13

Make plans, save a date. 14-15 Island Players handle ‘Baggage.’ 16

Gathering. 22

Obituaries. 22

Get in the game. 23

Streetlife. 24 Dolphin Dash plans. 26

Nursery tales and plant sales. 27 Soccer, golf, horseshoes dominate sports. 28 Gulf fishing pays off. 29

ISL BIZ What’s shaking in local business. 31 CLASSIFIEDS. 32

PropertyWatch. 32 NYT Sunday Magazine Crossword. 35

Celebrating the Best News on Anna Maria Island Since 1992

Holmes Beach mayoral candidate makes clean sweep into office

By Kathy Prucnell Islander Reporter She’s the first Holmes family member to serve as mayor since the city incorporated in 1950. Mayor-elect Judy Holmes Titsworth swept away her opponent in the Nov. 6 election, taking more than 79 percent of the vote — a likely record for a contested Holmes Beach mayoral election in the city. The Manatee County Supervisor of Elections Office was prepared to certify the results of the race Nov. 18 with the rest of the county election after a 10-day period allotted for counting overseas ballots. However, certification is likely delayed by a statewide recount. “It won’t change the outcome” in Holmes Beach, according to SOE deputy chief Sharon Stief, who said the margin is so wide, the ballots postmarked prior to Nov. 6 that have yet to be counted, if any, are unlikely to make a dent. City clerk Stacey Johnston said she would swear in Titsworth and the other Holmes Beach election winners. The ceremony was scheduled for Nov. 19, at city hall but, at press time for The Islander, it was PLEASE SEE HB MAYOR, PAGE 5

Holmes Beach mayor-elect Judy Titsworth husband Steve and granddaughter Lily, celebrate an election victory Nov. 6 at the Blue Marlin restaurant in Bradenton Beach. Judy Titsworth, city commission chair and granddaughter of the city’s namesake, won 79.27 percent of the vote. Islander Photo: Courtesy Jack Titsworth

By Steve Albee Islander Reporter Speculation that the decided height of the Cortez Bridge could be revisited over concerns that a high fixed-span bridge would have adverse impacts to Cortez village will not happen, according to the top area transportation official. L.K. Nandem, Florida Department of Transportation District 1 Secretary, told an audience gathered Oct. 22: “There are no plans to revisit plans to change our current design.” Nandem was the featured speaker at the Manatee Chamber of Commerce Headliner Luncheon at the Courtyard by Marriott in downtown Bradenton. The bridge study, which began in 2013, determined social, economic, natural and physical environmental impacts associated

with a proposed transportation improvement project, which enables the DOT to choose the best alternative. The project development and environment study suggests the best option to replace the 61-year-old bridge would be to build a 65-foot-clearance bridge much like the Ringling Bridge that spans the Intracoastal Waterway in Sarasota, which was strongly opposed, but is now a centerpiece for downtown Sarasota. In addition to vehicle traffic, hundreds of pedestrians walk and ride their bikes over the bridge daily. Cortez residents have mostly opposed the bridge replacement options presented by the DOT. Cortez artist and activist Susan Curry recently rekindled the conversation on Facebook when she posted her concerns about the PLEASE SEE BRiDge, PAGE 2

www.islander.org

BB incumbents brush off challenge

By ChrisAnn Silver Esformes Islander Reporter The line was drawn in the Bradenton Beach sand. “There’s a lot going on here,” Brian Finelli, a 30-year Bradenton Beach resident, said on Election Day, Nov. 6, after he cast his ballot. “It’s good to see people out expressing their opinions.” Voters in Bradenton Beach made their voices heard. They retained two incumbent commissioners, Ralph Cole and Marilyn Maro. For the two seats up for grabs on the commission, 282 voted to elect Cole and 242 voted for Maro, while 189 voted for John Metz and 165 voted for Tjet Martin. “I’m really happy,” Maro said of her win. “It was my first election and I worked really hard for this.” Maro was appointed to the commission in 2016 when, lacking a candidate for the ballot, she took the seat vacated by Commissioner Ed Straight, who was termed out. “I’m very happy for Bradenton Beach right now,” Cole said following the election. “I love this place and look forward to doing PLEASE SEE BB COMMissiON, PAGE 5

DOT chief: Cortez Bridge megaspan ‘will not be revisited’

Incumbent Commissioners Ralph Cole and Marilyn Maro high-five Nov. 6 at the Bradenton Beach Volunteer Fire Hall polling place as the results, returning them to office, are posted on the door. The pair stayed off a challenge from Tjet Martin and John Metz. Islander Photo: ChrisAnn Silver Esformes

2 n Nov. 14, 2018 n THE ISLANDER

Anna Maria hopes to relocate coyotes, Holmes Beach, too

A coyote rests Nov. 8 near a beachfront residence in the 4800 block in Holmes Beach. Islander Photo: Courtesy HBPD Officer Tom Fraser

Murray and voiced their concerns about coyotes roaming outside their home on Hardin Avenue. Jeff Murray said he has seen five coyotes in the city and asked commissioners to consider relocating them. Wife Jean said she watched a coyote stroll down her street and was concerned for her pets. She added that coyotes eat turtle eggs, potentially endangering sea turtle nests along the shores. Murphy agreed, saying sheriff’s deputies patrolling the beaches have spotted coyotes there. Commissioner Carol Carter said she saw a coyote

outside her home on Willow Avenue, and her husband has resorted to carrying a golf club for protection while walking their dog. According to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, owners can protect their pets by keeping them indoors, walking dogs on short leashes and avoiding large areas of foliage, as well as removing pet food and securing garbage outside the home. Citizens approached by coyotes are advised by the FWC to wave their arms and yell towards the creature, or throw objects to scare them away.

BRiDge CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 DOT’s plan to replace the bridge on Facebook. Bradenton Beach officials and a contingent of residents there also oppose the replacement of the low, bascule bridge with a megabridge — the DOT’s preferred 65-foot-clearance fixed-span bridge. But the DOT study determined the preferred alternative is the 65-foot-clearance bridge. The PD&E study found that a fixed-span bridge has more economic, safety and convenience benefits over the existing drawbridge or a replacement drawbridge. It would be constructed to last beyond the 75-year design-life requirement for new DOT bridges. According to Zachary Burch, a spokesman for DOT District 1, the PD&E study indicates a fixed bridge is resoundingly the best financial investment for taxpayers. The initial construction cost, including design and construction, saves about $23.9 million compared to a new midlevel bascule bridge. Over the 75-year life of the bridge, the fixed-span also would save about $11.2 million in operating and maintenance costs compared to a drawbridge. The DOT says the $35.1 million in savings could be used for additional improvements and aesthetics. “Vehicles and boats will have improved traffic flow with a fixed bridge, which would eliminate congestion and delays exasperated by the bridge openings,” Burch said. He also added the new bridge would be designed

and constructed to modern standards that will improve the safety of the bridge and will include enhanced pedestrian and bicycle features, including two 10-foot sidewalks separated by a traffic barrier, which would enhance safety and recreational opportunities. It would include a frontage lane that connects the north and south sides of Cortez and would allow for open space for amenities like kayak rentals, a dog park, play area, landscaping or other amenities and business opportunities. Some Cortez residents are fearful a new bridge would block access to their village and negatively impact businesses, but DOT officials say those concerns will be met and discussed before construction. The bridge design was funded this year and should be completed by spring 2019. Actual bridge plans are scheduled for completion in 2023. “We are not planning to purchase any new right of way on this project,” Rick Brian, a District 1 spokesman told The Islander. “All the work will be performed within the department’s existing ROW.” “There will be ample opportunities for the public to weigh-in on aesthetics, landscaping and the use of the space beneath the new structure once it’s completed,” Brian said. The DOT has not determined funding to build the bridge, but has until 2025 to find the source.

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By Ryan Paice Islander Reporter Steps are being taken to relocate a handful of coyotes seen prowling the streets of Anna Maria. Mayor Dan Murphy said at a meeting Nov. 8 that public works manager Dean Jones is coordinating the relocation of coyotes from the city and is speaking with two trappers, each with different methods to trap and relocate wildlife. Murphy will return to commissioners with a presentation on how the city can remove the animals, and he said he plans to bring up the coyote issue for discussion at the next meeting of the Coalition of Barrier Island Elected Officials at 1 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 13. In Holmes Beach, Police Chief Bill Tokajer spoke to Mayor Bob Johnson Nov. 9 about coordinating with Anna Maria on the issue. Tokajer also said Longboat Key met with an FWC representative about trapping the animals, but the municipality decided not to take action due to having to euthanize them. In the meantime, citizens are worried about the safety of their pets, as well as turtle nests on the beaches. Earlier in the Anna Maria meeting, Jeff and Jean

THE ISLANDER n Nov. 14, 2018 n 3

Still no end to red tide intrusion on Manatee coastline

By Sandy Ambrogi Islander Reporter Joey Dale was on a morning walk Nov. 6 when he stopped in his tracks. On the sands of Whitney Beach on the northern tip of Longboat Key, Dale came upon a dead goliath grouper measuring about 4 1/2 feet long. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It was a big one,â&#x20AC;? Dale told The Islander. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It was strange. There were no other fish around, just this one giant grouper. The first thing I thought was red tide.â&#x20AC;? Dale, co-owner of The Feast restaurant in Holmes Beach, said as he strolled the beach he did not experience coughing or burning eyes, the effects of red tide reported by some people on local beaches. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t think the red tide is nearly as bad as it was before,â&#x20AC;? he said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;There are no dead eels and mullet on the beaches and no smell.â&#x20AC;? However, red tide was blamed for fish kills in Manatee, Sarasota and Pinellas counties the week of Nov. 5-11. Red tide levels again reached the high mark, with readings of more than 1 million parts per liter reported by Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission readings. Only southern areas of Sarasota County showed a decrease in concentrations of the harmful algae bloom Karenia brevis. Mote Beach Reports, daily assessments of local beaches from Mote Marine Laboratory, showed more presence of red tide on the south end of Anna Maria Island at Bradenton Beachâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Coquina Beach. Moderate respiratory irritation was reported the afternoon of Nov. 8, along with heavy red drift. Moteâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s report that day for Manatee Public Beach, 4000 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, showed no irritation. However, the mornings of Nov. 8-9, just before the long Veterans Day weekend, a vacationer reported dead fish north and south of the public beach. Seaham Grace, visiting Anna Maria Island from

A goliath grouper, about 4 1/2 feet long, lies on Whitney Beach on the north end of Longboat Key Nov. 6. Joey Dale, co-owner of The Feast restaurant in Holmes Beach, came across the fish on a morning walk near Beer Can Island at the north end of Longboat. Islander Photo: Courtesy Joey Dale Bromley in the United Kingdom, told The Islander he and his wife saw twice as many dead fish on the beach Nov. 9 as the day prior. The stretch they observed reached about 10 blocks south from the Manatee Public Beach.

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Marcus Campion, with the Manatee County Parks and Natural Resources Department, confirmed the beach rake operation had collected dead fish both days from island beaches. â&#x20AC;&#x153;They might be coming in from offshore,â&#x20AC;? Campion said. There are definitely more dead fish on the northern end of Anna Maria Island right now. The water looks bad. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s dark again in some places.â&#x20AC;? Campion said the dead fish were scattered, unlike the piles of fish in the massive kill in August. He said many mackerel were found Nov. 8 along with snook, catfish and baitfish for the majority of the most recent fish kill. Carmen DeMilio, operations manager for the Manatee County Property Management Department, reported no dead fish Nov. 9 at Coquina Beach. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I was setting up for Symphony on the Sand this morning and there were no dead fish on the beach at Coquina. Nothing.â&#x20AC;? DeMilio told The Islander by phone. While humans were faring better with the latest round of red tide, Pinellas County had become the new hotspot for manatee deaths attributed to K. brevis. According to the FWC, 10 manatee deaths attributed to red tide occurred Sept. 29-Oct. 19 in Pinellas, more than anywhere else in Florida. The red tide toxin builds up in the manatees, paralyzes their respiratory systems and they drown. Dead manatees are taken to the FWCâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Marine Mammal Pathobiology Laboratory in St. Petersburg for necropsies, which help scientists determine the cause of death. FWC officials say manatees in distress often appear unable to control their bodies or buoyancy. Officials advise people to contact FWC immediately if they think they see a manatee in distress and hold its head out of water when possible until wildlife officials arrive. Â If you see a sick or injured manatee, contact the FWC at 1-888-404-3922.

4 n Nov. 14, 2018 n THE ISLANDER

Rash handily takes HB commission seat, Morton returns

By Ryan Paice Islander Reporter Behind weeks of waving signs alongside Holmes Beach streets, a newcomer has moved smartly into a city commission seat. Kim Rash and incumbent Pat Morton won the two open commission seats among three candidates Nov. 6, with Rash garnering 1,127 votes to Morton’s 1,116. Don Purvis was the odd man out, with 887 votes. Morton, with 15 years of service on the commission, won his eighth two-year term. “It’s been a pleasure to serve for 15 years. So, I’m looking forward to another two years,” Morton said in an interview Nov. 7. “I’m delighted to do it, and I want to thank my constituents out here that still have faith in me.” Morton said his priority is to work on bike paths that would link to Anna Maria and Bradenton Beach. “I enjoy this kind of work and, especially when you’ve been here as long as I have, somebody must be doing a good job,” Morton said. “As long as you’re running, they’ll put you in if you’re doing the right job. If you don’t, they’ll toss you right out on the street. “I feel very blessed to have the citizens we have that are pleased with what I’m doing,” Morton continued. Rash moved to Holmes Beach in 2001 from Kentucky. He maintains rental properties in Kentucky and Florida. Winning a seat with 36 percent of the vote, he will serve his first term in elected office. “It’s a pretty exciting moment,” he said in an interview Nov. 7. “We worked hard for it.”

Promising to serve as a voice of the residents throughout his campaign, Rash said he has heard their concerns, and now must figure out how he will carry solutions forward. He credited his involvement with the community for his Election Day Morton victory. “Probably the most important reason I won is because the last 12 years I’ve spent my life down here helping people and solving problems for those people,” Rash said. “I think the real reason I won is because I’ve been a good neighbor, a good friend and a good churchgoer.” Rash and Morton will serve two-year terms for a salary of $500 a month. Purvis, a New Orleans native and eight-year Holmes Beach resident, is coping with the Election Day loss. “I guess I’m disappointed. I was looking forward to serving our city and our residents and the community at large,” Purvis said in an interview Nov. 10. “So, I’m disappointed with that, but I’m pleased that I went through the process and it was a good experience.” Purvis will continue serving on the board for the Center of Anna Maria Island, but is looking to become more involved with the community. Since he got out of teaching and coaching, Purvis said, being involved became “part of who I am. I enjoy doing things to help others, and if I’m not doing those things I feel like I’m not using my abilities and gifts.”

Of the 2,810 eligible voters, 1,014 turned out in Holmes Beach for the Nov. 6 election. The turnout was 36 percent. In the 2014 midterm, the turnout, with 2,700 registered voters, was 53.35 percent. Morton and Rash were to be sworn in at a ceremony at 9 a.m. Monday, Nov. 19, at city hall, 6001 Marina Drive, at press time for The Islander. However, city clerk Stacey Johnston said the swearing-in may be delayed. Johnston issued a notice Nov. 9 providing that a statewide recount of ballots could delay the SOE from finalizing and certifying the election before Nov. 19.

Holmes Beach commissioner-elect Kim Rash, center, celebrates his win with wife Theresa and daughter Melissa at the home of a supporter. Islander Photo: Kathy Prucnell

5 Holmes Beach charter review members elected Nov. 6 By Ryan Paice Islander Reporter The votes are in, and the Holmes Beach Charter Review Commission is set. The five top vote-getters of eight candidates are Thomas W. Sean Murphy, David Zaccagnino, Nancy R. Deal, Claudia Carlson and Edward Upshaw. Murphy won a seat with 1,141 votes, or 17.9 percent of the vote. Johnny Rigney, Major G. Leckie and Jay Calhoun received the least Carlson votes, with 508, 639 and 660 respectively, were out of the running. “It feels very nice to win,” Murphy said in an interview Nov. 7. “I was just really fortunate that so many residents gave me their support and, of course, my friends who helped. I think the classic closing line Deal is ‘thank you for your support.’” David Zaccagnino and Nancy Deal followed close

Anna Maria incumbents roll into another term Election Day arrived Nov. 6, but the seats up for grabs in Anna Maria were decided in May. No new candidates qualified to run against the incumbents for the seats up for election, including two city commission seats and the mayoral post. This left the incumbents unchallenged after qualifying. Mayor Dan Murphy and Commissioners Brian Seymour and Amy Tripp automatically retained their seats for two years. Murphy will serve his third term, while Seymour will begin a second term and Tripp will serve her first full term. Tripp was appointed by the commission in February to complete the remainder of Commissioner Nancy Yetter’s term. The mayor earns a $19,400 annual salary and commissioners are paid $4,800 a year. Of the 1,082 eligible voters in Anna Maria, 409 turned out to cast ballots in the Nov. 6 midterms. The turnout was 37.8 percent. In the 2014 midterm election, 37.62 percent of 2,642 registered voters cast ballots. Murphy, Seymour and Tripp were set to be sworn at 6 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 15, at city hall, 10005 Gulf Drive, unless the event is delayed by the recount. — Ryan Paice

behind Murphy with 15.17 percent and 15.14 percent of the vote, respectively. Zaccagnino became familiar with the charter during nine years as a city commissioner. He was defeated in a bid for the mayor’s seat in 2014 and Murphy again in 2016 in a bid for a seat on the Manatee County Board of Commissioners. Deal, who will serve her first term in office, was proud of her Election Day victory. “I am very proud that people Upshaw appear to trust me,” Deal said in an interview Nov. 7. “And, I’m excited to get started on the charter review. It’s something I’m very interested in and excited about.” Carlson received 12.68 percent of the vote, and Upshaw received 686 votes, or 10.76 percent.

Meetings

“It feels great, but now it’s like, ‘OK, I have a lot of work to do,’” Upshaw said in an interview Nov. 7. “And it is, it will be a lot of work in a short period of time, but I’m ready to jump on it.” Zaccagnino Upshaw stressed the importance of input from citizens, and said all ideas to improve the city’s governance should be considered. Carlson, Deal, Murphy, Upshaw and Zaccagnino are tentatively set to be sworn in at 9 a.m. Thursday, Nov. 29, at city hall, 6001 Marina Drive, pending the election recount and certification, according to a Nov. 12 email from city clerk Stacey Johnston. Every five years, city voters are charged with electing a commission to review the Holmes Beach charter and propose possible changes. Charter commissioners are not paid and the committee dissolves once the review is completed. West Manatee Fire Rescue None announced. WMFR administration building, 6417 Third Ave. W., Bradenton, wmfr.org.

Anna Maria City Nov. 15, 6 p.m., swearing-in. TENTATIVE Nov. 15, 6 p.m., city commission. Nov. 21, 5:30 p.m., special magistrate. Manatee County Dec. 11, 4 p.m., planning and zoning. Nov. 27, 9 a.m., commission. Dec. 13, 6 p.m., commission. Dec. 6, 9 a.m., commission (land use). Dec. 19, 5:30 p.m., special magistrate. Dec. 18, 9 a.m., commission. Dec. 27, 6 p.m., commission. Administration building, 1112 Manatee Ave. W., Anna Maria City Hall, 10005 Gulf Drive, 941- Bradenton, 941-748-4501, mymanatee.org. 708-6130, cityofannamaria.com. Of interest Bradenton Beach Nov. 22, Thanksgiving, most government offices, Nov. 14, 1 p.m., planning and zoning. as well as The Islander, will be closed that day and Nov. 15, noon, commission. Nov. 23. Nov. 19, 1 p.m., swearing-in. TENTATIVE Dec. 3, 2 p.m., Island Transportation Planning Nov. 20, 10 a.m., commission. Organization, Anna Maria City Hall. Bradenton Beach City Hall, 107 Gulf Drive N., Dec. 10, 9 a.m., Manatee County Tourist Devel941-778-1005, cityofbradentonbeach.org. opment Council, Center of Anna Maria Island, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria. Holmes Beach Dec. 17, Sarasota-Manatee Metropolitan PlanNov. 19, 9 a.m., commission. ning Organization, Holiday Inn at Sarasota-BradenNov. 29, 9 a.m., swearing-in. Tentative ton International Airport, 8009 15th St. E., BradenDec. 5, 10 a.m., parks and beautification. ton. Dec. 5, 6 p.m., planning. Dec. 25, Christmas, most government offices, as Dec. 11, 6 p.m., commission. well as The Islander, will be closed that day and Dec. Holmes Beach City Hall, 5801 Marina Drive, 24. 941-708-5800, holmesbeachfl.org. Send notices to news@islander.org.

THE ISLANDER n Nov. 14, 2018 n 5

HB MAYOR CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 postponed to Nov. 26. Johnston issued a notice Nov. 9 providing that a statewide recount of ballots could delay election certification by the SOE. The swearing-in will now be at 9 a.m. Monday BB COMMissiON CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 the best I can to keep things moving ahead.” After being elected in 2015 and serving his first two-year term, Cole failed to win his bid for a second term in 2017, but was appointed by the commission to fill the seat vacated by John Chappie, who was elected mayor in 2017. Cole has served as chair of the city’s community redevelopment agency. “We have so much in the works with the CRA right now that will enhance our town for everyone,” he said. “I’m excited to keep up the work.” Martin said she is disappointed she was not elected, but she understands it was up to the voters. “The people have spoken and it was their choice, but I am concerned for the citizenry,” Martin said. “There are lots of projects gearing up. I hope they get it done this time. Put your money where your mouth is. Do something.” Metz declined comment. Of 739 registered voters in Bradenton Beach, 255 cast ballots Nov. 6 at precinct No. 307, the Bradenton Beach Volunteer Fire Hall, 201 Second St. N. Vote-by-mail ballots numbered 232 and 64 people were early voters. The total electoral turnout was 74.6 percent. In the 2014 midterm, 44.69 percent of 763 registered voters cast ballots. The swearing-in ceremony for the newly elected officials was planned for 1 p.m. Monday, Nov. 19, at Bradenton Beach City Hall, 107 Gulf Drive N., at press time for The Islander. However, a statewide recount of ballots could delay the SOE from certifying the election before Nov. 19 and the swearing-in may need to be delayed.

Nov. 29 at city hall. Titsworth’s win was by the biggest margin Johnston recalls, including those of past mayoral wins by Carmel Monti, Richard Bohnenberger, Carol Whitmore and Pat Geyer. Titsworth She outpolled her opponent, Joshua Linney, by 1,587 to 415 votes, according to the unofficial tally reported Nov. 9 by the Manatee County Supervisor of Elections Office. Titsworth is a three-term comMcGuinness missioner who served as chair since 2013. “I would like to think it is because I have worked so hard for the past six years,” Titsworth said about her landslide victory. Titsworth, who operates a construction business with her husband, said her first order of business is to improve the building department. She said Nov. 7 the department — comprising of building official Jim McGuinness, three plan reviewers and support staff — has recently become more responsive but, in the past year, builders have complained of overreaching, unfairness and long permit holdups. “Yes, we want good inspections. Yes, we want to make sure they’re meeting codes,” but without a “bulldog mentality,” Titsworth said, adding the department should not unnecessarily hold up projects. “I’ve already heard from contractors, they’re pleased” about recent improvements, she said, adding builders must become more accurate in reporting their costs, which correspond to the fees for a permit. As commissioner, Titsworth said, she’d been unable to get timely responses from McGuinness, but “knowing I’m the next mayor has really opened it up.” Linney conceded defeat on election night. “It was a great experience,” he said of his run for mayor, adding he expects to run again.

Linney’s campaign was marred by revelations of past drug use, arrests for driving under the influence and theft, as well as untrue claims he made about his military service. Of the 2,810 registered voters in the city’s two precincts, 2,113 voters — including 886 by mail and 233 early voters—cast ballots in the election, according to Nov. 8 county records. County records showed 3,029 registered voters in 2014. The mayor’s position pays $1,000 per month. Titsworth succeeds Mayor Bob Johnson, who defeated former Commissioner David Zaccagnino in his first bid for the position in 2014. Johnson served a second term as mayor without an election due to having no opponent in 2016 and he leaves office favoring a city manager-led government. The idea gained momentum in 2017-18 and the subsequent recommendation for a city manager from the committee he appointed to explore the city’s “form-of-government.” The committee recommended the change to weak mayor and city manager, in lieu of the current administrative mayor, overseeing the day-to-day operation, hiring and firing of city employees — a recommendation that stalled in August with the city commission. Commissioners disbanded the committee without taking a vote on its recommendation, opting to defer the decision to a duly-elected charter review committee, which led to a slate of candidates from the committee and others. “I’m really happy with the outcome of the charter review committee,” said Titsworth on learning city voters chose Sean Murphy, Nancy Deal, David Zaccagnino, Claudia Carlson and Ed Upshaw to undertake the review. Titsworth has been outspoken against the switch to a city manager as costly and unnecessary. “It’s a mix. It’s not everyone on that postcard” who ran favoring the city manager, Titsworth said, adding she expects an unbiased, comprehensive charter review.

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Opinion

Our

Save wildlife, humanity

Nothing makes me cringe like the idea of hunting coyotes or any wildlife to kill them. The coyotes that have made their presence known on Anna Maria Island are looking for their habitat — long ago overtaken by people and development — and a food source. They’ve been pushed out of Northwest Bradenton and all points north, south and east. They may not be sweet cuddly critters, but they don’t deserve a death sentence for trying to survive. People can cope with them until they exhaust their efforts for food and move on. Like the fish and wildlife folks say, wave your arms and shoo them away. Limit their food sources, including pet food left outside and access to garbage. And bring cats and dogs inside. If your pets are “family,” they belong in the house, not outside alone or without a leash. Outdoor cats prey on wildlife similar to coyotes, and should be trained to stay indoors. It’s simple enough to live with wildlife. Give them space. We don’t shoo away osprey, eagles, sharks, dolphins, manatees and other critters that share our lands and waters. Likewise, raccoons and opossum, land and sea turtles, have lost large areas of habitat. They’re all vying for space and sustenance in the urban jungle we created. Sadly, the cries and fears about wildlife remind me of some city officials and residents who we’ve overheard worrying about how to rid the island communities of homeless people — when we’d rather they looked for ways to help them. It’s a sad state of affairs when the solution is to drive them — wildlife and people — over the bridge to the mainland where they are dumped and left to survive without their familiar resources. Where’s the humanity, Anna Maria Island? I understand you may feel threatened, but you should reach out to help animals and people in need, not look for ways to be rid of them.

Elections done?

Just when you think your vote is counted and your choices are ready to govern or go home, surprise. A statewide recount is underway. Supervisors of election across Florida are being held accountable. All votes — provisional, in person or by mail — must be counted and recounted. Putting politics and threats aside, we deserve the very best when it comes to accountability. We await the statewide outcome. — Bonner Joy

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Publisher and Editor Bonner Joy, news@islander.org Editorial Lisa Neff, copy editor, lisa@islander.org Steve Albee, steve@islander.org Sandy Ambrogi, sandy@islander.org Joe Bird, editorial cartoonist Kevin Cassidy, kevin@islander.org Jack Elka, jack@jackelka.com ChrisAnn Silver Esformes, chrisann@islander.org Ryan Paice, ryan@islander.org Kathy Prucnell, kathyp@islander.org Contributors Jesse Brisson Karen Riley-Love Capt. Danny Stasny, fish@islander.org Advertising Director Toni Lyon, toni@islander.org Office Staff Lisa Williams, manager accounting@islander.org classifieds@islander.org subscriptions@islander.org Distribution Urbane Bouchet Judy Loden Wasco Ross Roberts (All others: news@islander.org)

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Opinion

Guest

Thanks to HBPD

The Friends of the Island Library would like to applaud the Holmes Beach Police Department for the wonderful National Night Out held Oct. 2. The work they did to provide a fun, free, entertaining evening for our community speaks volumes to the positive outreach they endorse. The friends board members were fortunate to participate in this evening by giving away books that they secured, thanks to HBPD Sgt. Vern McGowan. We, of course, were elated to encourage children to learn to love reading. Parents and kids were very positively impacted to receive free books that they could have in their home to encourage reading skills. Thanks to Holmes Beach Police Department for hosting this event. We were honored to participate. Ginny Upshaw, president of the Friends of the Island Library

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

The results are in

I have been privileged for a number of years to know a neighbor and friend — Kim Rash. He and his family — Theresa, Melissa and Lucy — have epitomized what life in Holmes Beach (and Kentucky) is all about: Caring and giving. To Rash, Godspeed as you assume your new role on our city commission. Ellen and I are so proud of you and what you’ve done for our community. Bob McCaffrey, Holmes Beach

Have your say

The Islander accepts original letters of up to 250 words and reserves the right to edit for grammar and length. Letters must include name, address and a contact phone number (for verification). Email: news@islander.org. Anonymous letters will not be printed. Readers also may comment on online, where The Islander has 3,000+ registered users. Also, The Islander has an active — 12,300+ likes — Facebook community. To join the conversation, “like” The Islander on Facebook.

THE ISLANDER n Nov. 14, 2018 n 7

Certiﬁed results

Anna Maria Mayor Dan Murphy presents a certificate Nov. 8 to Commissioner Amy Tripp on her completion of the Florida League of Cities University Institute for Elected Municipal Officials training program. Islander Photo: Ryan Paice

10&20 years ago

In the headlines: Nov. 11, 1998

The Anna Maria City Commission voted to opt out of an islandwide plan to apply for a federal grant to fund a multiuse path and an island trolley. Bradenton Beach and Holmes Beach commissions had voted to proceed with the application. The Florida Department of Community Affairs Community Development Block denied a Bradenton Beach request for a $550,000 grant that would have allowed the city to build sidewalks and install landscaping along Gulf Drive. The U.S. Coast Guard found the body of Cortez fisherman Donald Akins aboard the boat Kare Free, which had been swamped off the Dry Tortugas near Key West. Another Cortez fisherman remained missing.

In the headlines: Nov. 12, 2008

Place your bets

The first annual Crab Futurity Race takes place at the first Cortez Fish Festival in 1983. The object of the race was to encourage a crab to leave the painted box and race to the finish line. Islander Photo: Courtesy Manatee County Public Library Digital Collection

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The Page One headline read: “Haley’s Motel owner missing.” The story said, “Sabine MusilBuehler, the co-owner of Haley’s Motel in Holmes Beach, was officially reported missing early Nov. 6. Friends and family on Anna Maria Island say they last saw the 49-year-old woman on Nov. 4, Election Day.” Bradenton Beach city commissioners unanimously approved an ordinance revising beach regulations to firmly set open hours from 6 a.m. to midnight. Quinn Construction Co. of Palmetto reopened the renovated Anna Maria Island Bridge unannounced and a week earlier than planned. According to the $10.2 million contract, Quinn earned a $725,000 bonus for early completion. The weekly archives for The Islander are online ufdc.ufl.edu. Archived stories are online at islander.org.

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Bradenton Beach voters approve 7 charter amendments By ChrisAnn Silver Esformes Islander Reporter The tide has turned. Bradenton Beach electors voted “yes” for all seven charter amendments placed on the ballot by the city’s ad hoc charter review committee. The vote was 295 “yes,” or 58.99 percent of the vote, and 208 “no” to charter amendment 1, which reinstates “at-large voting for all elected officials, including mayor and four neighborhood ward commissioners.” “This puts us right back where we were in 2016,” said John Metz, former treasurer of the now-defunct Concerned Neighbors of Bradenton Beach, a grassroots organization that proposed three charter amendments that passed in 2017. One of CNOBB’s charter amendments replaced the four-ward representative system with an at-large election for commissioners. The Nov. 6 vote reversed that amendment. The charter committee was formed by the city to review the document for consistency with amendments approved by voters in 2017 and amendments proposed for 2018 by Keep Our Residential Neighborhoods, a political action committee. Metz is a founding member of KORN. Following a September hearing in circuit court for the initiatives, KORN and the city are awaiting a final order from Judge Lon Arend, which will determine if KORN’s proposals will be voted on in a special election. When the KORN amendments were presented to the city in June, city attorney Ricinda Perry said the proposed amendments would violate the city charter and did not fully comply with state statutes.

The city commission voted against submitting the petitions for the KORN amendments to the Manatee County Supervisor of Elections Office, based on advice from Perry, and formed its own committee to review and propose amendments to the city charter. The vote was 413 “yes,” and 105 “no” for charter amendment 2, which clarifies residency and requires candidates for elective office to be registered voters permanently residing in the city. The second amendment passed by the largest margin of the amendments, with 79.78 percent of the vote. The third charter amendment, which provides for a

Park rezone passes handily in Bradenton Beach

The referendum to properly zone Katie Pierola Park, 2212 Gulf Drive N., Bradenton Beach, as a park, passed with a supermajority of 460 “yes” and 56 “no” votes. The referendum passed by the largest margin in the Bradenton Beach election, with 89.08 percent of the vote The park will be rezoned from R3 multifamily, which does not allow for a public park, to PRA, public recreation area. The rezone prevents the park from being sold or developed as a commercial or residential property. The commission unanimously approved the rezone in August. The city charter required the matter be voted on as a referendum. — ChrisAnn Silver Esformes

Jean and Hugh Holmes Sr. pause for a photo Nov. 6 at the Blue Marlin restaurant in Bradenton Beach with their youngest daughter, Judy Titsworth, who won the Holmes Beach mayor’s seat that day. The proud parents were celebrating their 70th wedding anniversary as Judy became the first family member to serve as mayor of the city. Islander Photo: Kathy Prucnell

balanced commission form of government, passed with 308 “yes,” or 61.55 percent, and 193 “no” votes. Charter amendment 4, providing city commissioners with exclusive hiring and firing powers for city staff, passed with 290 “yes” votes, or 59.12 percent of the vote, and 208 “no” votes. Charter amendment 5, which clarifies the articles in the charter regarding provisions for elected officials, qualifications and election procedures, received 306 “yes” and 183 “no” votes. It passed with 62.82 percent of the vote. Charter amendment 6, adding a resign-to-run provision, passed with 328 “yes” and 180 “no” votes, approved by 64.3 percent of voters. Charter amendment 7, clarifying the title of an article dealing with ordinances, passed with 320 “yes” and 172 “no” votes, representing approval from 65.22 percent of voters. “Everything was put out on the table,” Mayor John Chappie said following the Nov. 6 election. “We had the charter review committee and everything was done out in the public, where everybody had an opportunity to participate. And the people have made their choice.” Of 739 registered voters in Bradenton Beach, 232 people voted by mail, 64 were early voters and 255 cast ballots Nov. 6 at precinct No. 307, the Bradenton Beach Volunteer Fire Hall, 201 Second St. N. There were no early voting polls open on Anna Maria Island, but island voters were able to vote in advance at other polls, including the SOE, 600 301 Blvd. W., Suite 108, Bradenton. The total turnout percentage was 74.6 percent. In the 2014 midterm, 44.69 percent of 763 registered voters cast ballots. Brian Finelli, 30-year Bradenton Beach resident, displays his “I voted” sticker Nov. 6 after casting his ballot at the Bradenton Beach Volunteer Fire Hall, 201 Second St. N.

Sandee Shea of Holmes Beach and Lisa Lill of Anna Maria promote awareness of amendment 13, one of 12 constitutional amendments on the ballot. The measure banning greyhound racing passed statewide Nov. 6 with the vote about 5.3 million-2.4 million.

Dave Stewart, a Manatee County election deputy, welcomes Tanner Enoch of the Anna Maria Island Beach Cafe to vote Nov. 6 at St. Bernard Catholic Church, 248 S. Harbor Drive, Holmes Beach.

Christian Ulach speaks to the importance of voting before casting his ballot Nov. 6 as he and service dog Ivan arrive at the poll at Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, 6608 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach

Bill Vincent, left, founder of the defunct Concerned Neighbors of Bradenton Beach, and John Metz, commission candidate and founder of Keep Our Residential Neighborhoods and former CNOBB treasurer, campaign Nov. 6 against seven charter amendments proposed by Bradenton Beach. Islander Photo: ChrisAnn Silver Esformes

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Spring Lake history, solutions to pollution aired

By Kathy Prucnell Islander Reporter Boyd Grayson of Palm Drive had a story to tell Holmes Beach commissioners about the once thriving, now polluted Spring Lake. A five-year resident whose home backs on the lake, Grayson told commissioners at an Oct. 23 work session he’s concerned about the possibility the city might return the lake to a fresh-water system, as initially recommended by city engineer Lynn Burnett. Burnett told commissioners Oct. 9 the city should establish a fresh-water system by dredging the lake bottom and adding aeration, supporting a recommendation by Aquatic Systems Lake & Wetland Services of Pompano. At the same meeting, however, after Melissa Williams of Clark Drive spoke in favor of restoring the saltwater lake, Burnett led commissioners to order a second report from ASLWS to examine the pros and cons of establishing a fresh-water versus saltwater ecosystem. Grayson said the lake was originally a fresh water body that failed in the 1950s. As a result, he added, a well was drilled to replenish the lake and that’s when saltwater entered the lake. In 1961 or so, after Gloria Dei Lutheran Church was built, two 20-inch diameter culverts were installed

Spring Lake lies between Holmes Boulevard, Palm and Marina drives. Islander Photo: Jack Elka between the lake and the Grand Canal on Marina Drive, running south of 68th Street and into the canal that leads to Bimini Bay and Tampa Bay beyond. “For 60 years, this lake has been full of everything you can imagine,” Grayson said, including a 52-pound Jewfish caught on hook and line and, in 2015, a 36-inch tarpon caught near his backyard. He blamed the destruction of the vibrant saltwater lake in October 2016 on Manatee County, saying that’s when a massive sewage spill poured into the lake and, in spite of county claims to the contrary, was never

Anna Maria ﬁnalizes new landscape rules

By Ryan Paice Islander Reporter Tree-huggers can find compromise. Property owners platting lots and parcels in Anna Maria will need to follow a new set of landscaping rules. At their Nov. 8 meeting, commissioners held a public hearing and voted 4-1 on final reading to adopt changes to the landscape ordinance lowering the number of required trees at newly constructed properties to five. Commissioner Dale Woodland was the only “no” vote, but was not alone in his hesitation. Jeff Rodencal, a member of the Anna Maria Planning and Zoning Board, told the commission of his concerns. Rodencal said he perused the Florida-friendly plant list and found that only nine tree species would be appropriate on his property due to the salinity found in the soil. He said it would be difficult to fit five such trees on his property due to the size of the canopies when the trees mature. Rodencal said he agreed with the effort to protect the city’s tree canopy, but asked for the addition of an exception for cases like his own. City attorney Becky Vose said the ordinance pertains to zoning, which allows property owners who

can’t reasonably meet the new requirement to apply for a variance. The city code previously required six native trees with a minimum of three species for every platted lot or parcel. Now, five Florida-friendly trees with a minimum of three canopy and/or understory species are required, while one canopy tree is recommended. Native trees are species that have grown in the ecosystem since before European colonization. The University of Florida and the Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences Extension Florida-Friendly Landscaping determine Florida-friendly trees. The changes also allow property owners to replace trees with palm trees, as long as the three understory and/or canopy requirement is met. Concerns about the viability of the previous ordinance’s requirements arose in August, with commissioners agreeing the required number of trees should be lowered. Commissioners also wanted to ensure the protection of the city’s tree canopy. A vote on the changes in October was stalled when a resident expressed concerns about fitting five trees on beachfront properties limited in buildable space by the beach terrain and dunes. Vose discussed the issue with the city planner and added an exception to the ordinance for properties with certain limitations.

restored. Grayson also pointed to stormwater runoff overloading the lake with silt and mud, adding how it has tainted a once white sandy bottom. “Now this lake has been successfully killed,” he said. Grayson recommended the installation of a tidal flushing system for the 3-acre lake and that the county be sent the bill because, he said, it caused the problems. He told commissioners his research came from local newspapers and commission minutes obtained from former Commissioner Marvin Grossman. Burnett said the city has been attempting to control stormwater and the algal blooms for years, seeking to revive the lake, all the while battling high, king tides. She blamed an October king tide for pushing 2 feet over seawalls, but credited Wastop valves installed by the city for protecting homes bordering the lake. Burnett said the city is “taking a very aggressive approach,” including a 2017 system installed around the lake’s perimeter to filter the water. A similar project at Palm Drive is expected to provide 95 percent efficiency, “but not the end all” as far as a solution goes to pollution. Burnett also reported consultant ASLWS is working on the new report on the pros and cons of the recreation of a saltwater-versus-freshwater ecosystem. “As soon as we get all the data collected and gathered,” Burnett said, “we’ll be back.”

AM mayor closes in on pier construction contract A contract for the construction of the Anna Maria City Pier platform and pilings is almost ready for a vote. Anna Maria Mayor Dan Murphy said at the Nov. 8 city commission meeting that negotiations with i+iconSOUTHEAST have progressed well and he hopes to bring a contract before commissioners for consideration before Friday, Nov. 16. If commissioners vote to approve the contract, site preparation and mobilization would begin in December. Murphy projected that the first pilings would be driven into the seabed in January. Additionally, the city received approval from the Federal Emergency Management Agency to begin construction, to go along with the $1,372,427.50 granted by the agency in August for the pier construction. With a $3,665,330.50 price tag, i+icon submitted the lowest-priced satisfactory bid in the second round of requests by the city for pier proposals. — Ryan Paice

Farm-City Week proclaimed to promote citrus growers

Anna Maria Mayor Dan Murphy proclaimed Nov. 7-17 Farm-City Week in Anna Maria to promote urban support for local agriculture producers. This year highlights Manatee County citrus growers, who have struggled to combat citrus greening spread by the Asian Citrus Psyllid insect. According to Manatee County Farm Bureau board member Ralph Garrison, the county’s citrus production has decreased from 4,723,000 boxes in 2004 to 2,772,000 boxes in 2017. The proclamation, issued at the Nov. 8 commission meeting, encourages people to recognize the importance of agriculture in Manatee County and to support the county’s citrus industry by purchasing local fruits and juices. — Ryan Paice

Farming the sea — mullet pour into Cortez docks

Dock-hand Scott Mora wraps and stacks boxes of mullet on a pallet Oct. 16 at the Cortez Bait & Seafood fish house at the 119th Street docks on Sarasota Bay. Local fishers say they’re looking forward to a good fall mullet run in spite of the persistence of red tide. Islander Photo: Kathy Prucnell

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

THE ISLANDER n Nov. 14, 2018 n 11

Against all odds, BB floating dock hovers on horizon By ChrisAnn Silver Esformes Islander Reporter “We touched them,” Bradenton Beach Police Chief, Sam Speciale said Nov. 8 regarding pieces of the long-awaited floating dock at the Historic Bridge Street Pier. When Speciale confirmed Nov. 8 the location of the dock parts, he and Commissioner Ralph Cole, who also serves as the city’s community redevelopment agency chair, drove to Hecker Construction Company Inc. Speciale in Gibsonton to put eyes on the dock components. They confirmed Hecker had the dock parts and, after speaking with Hecker representatives, Speciale began orchestrating the process to get the dock floats and cleats to BradenCole ton Beach and installed. It’s been a long haul since Technomarine was first contracted by the CRA in April 2017 to build and install the dock, due to the lack of communication and numerous delays from Technomarine. According to the aborted final schedule of four plans from Technomarine, the dock was to have a final inspection Oct. 4. At a Nov. 7 CRA meeting, the CRA voted to give Technomarine two more days to make contact with the city regarding plans for dock installation, or the city would contact the Florida attorney general with its complaints. The dock components were manufactured and

Sections of the floating dock intended for the Historic Bridge Street Pier in Bradenton Beach lay stacked Nov. 8 in a yard at Hecker Construction Company Inc. in Gibsonton. Islander Photo: Courtesy Bradenton Beach shipped from Spain in August, and transported to a laydown yard in Tampa. Speciale said he spoke with Eric Shaffer, project manager with Hecker, who said the dock was delivered to Hecker, which was contracted for the installation, but since there was no payment from Technomarine, the dock parts remained at the onsite laydown yard. He added the company is willing to work with the CRA to get the dock installed. Because Hecker was subcontracted by Technomarine, the CRA is not required to go out for a request for proposals for the install. According to Speciale, the floats were not included

Bradenton Beach CRA dives into living shoreline

By ChrisAnn Silver Esformes Islander Reporter The Bradenton Beach Community Redevelopment Agency has plans to bring the shoreline to life at the Historic Bridge Street Pier. The designer is commencing plans for the district. At its Nov. 7 meeting, members of the CRA board discussed plans for a living shoreline, including a presentation by Emily Anne Smith. Smith was hired by the CRA to provide a cohesive design for the district and a guide for future plans. The CRA district, bordered by Cortez Road, Sarasota Bay, Fifth Street South and the Gulf of Mexico, was declared blighted in 1992, allowing for incremental tax revenue from Manatee County to promote restoration, growth and tourism. The CRA includes the mayor, city commissioners and two appointed members, restaurateurs John Horne and Ed Chiles. As of late Nov. 7, the CRA fund — earmarked for enhancements for the district — totaled about $1.7 million. Smith was asked in September to address aesthetics, including construction and landscaping plans, public signage, benches, bike racks, ropes and bollards, lighting and streetscapes in the district. Commissioner Ralph Cole, CRA chair, said he has been working on his plan for a living shoreline at the pier, and asked Smith to provide drawings of the pier and surrounding area. He said drawings could help the city secure funding for the project. “If you don’t have anything to show them, it’s just an idea,” Cole said. The proposed living shoreline would include lightEmily Anne Smith chats Nov. 7 with Bradenton Beach Mayor John Chappie at city hall, 107 Gulf Drive N.

with the dock shipment, but Shaffer said he knows the company contracted to custom build them. He suggested the floats might be stored with that contractor if Technomarine never paid for them. Additionally, Technomarine did not provide the city with updated permitting information, so the dock permit is incomplete. Shaffer said his company has an engineer, so Speciale sent Shaffer the Technomarine manual for the dock with engineering information for pilings, which was passed to his engineer. Speciale indicated they may have to pay more than was budgeted for pilings, but it’s better than starting from scratch on the project. According to a Nov. 9 email to Speciale from Technomarine CEO Erik Sanderson, the cleats are at Technomarine’s North Palm Beach warehouse. In that email, Sanderson also confirmed the docks were delivered to Hecker. In another email to Speciale later that day, Sanderson said he would be in touch “to coordinate all.” Speciale said, according to city attorney Ricinda Perry, by identifying where the dock components and related equipment are located and volunteering to coordinate delivery, Technomarine released the materials to the city. In October, the board authorized Perry to write a notice for breach of contract, stating the CRA was willing to discuss an “amicable solution” and have the dock components moved from storage to Bradenton Beach. Otherwise, the city would litigate. However, according to Perry, Technomarine has multiple judgements pending, and all assets likely are or will be frozen. She recommended obtaining the materials, for which the CRA already has paid $83,682 of the $119,980 cost for the project. Her letter to Sanderson also acknowledged she read a transcript of an August deposition on another case wherein he falsely testified that the Bradenton Beach project “is paid in full and 100 percent complete.” The next Bradenton Beach Community Redevelopment meeting will be at 9:30 a.m. Wednesday, Dec. 5, at city hall, 107 Gulf Drive N.

BB utility grounding subject to hurricane delays The Bradenton Beach Community Redevelopment Agency is planning to create a living shoreline in Sarasota Bay adjacent to the Historic Bridge Street Pier. Islander Photos: ChrisAnn Silver Esformes ing under the pier aimed into the water to attract fish, clam and oyster beds in the area adjacent to the pier where now there is an anchorage, reef balls to promote marine life and educational signage. City attorney Ricinda Perry said the drawings are part of the CRA’s contract with Smith. Perry said pier drawings also could help secure state funding for the shoreline project. The city plans to file bills seeking funding in advance of the 2019 legislative session. The session will begin March 5 and Perry is readying funding requests. She said timing is critical to submit plans to the state, adding that Smith would need to prepare the pier drawings within a couple of weeks. “We’ll just get it done,” Smith said. Smith said she would like to learn as much as she can about the living shoreline before she addresses the drawings, adding the project includes “incredible educational opportunities for children and adults.” A motion for Perry to communicate with Smith regarding plans for the living shoreline passed 5-0. Chiles and Horne were absent with excuse. Additionally, Chappie suggested the CRA partner with the Sarasota Bay Estuary Program. “It would help get a foot in the door for grant opportunities,” Chappie said. Since 1989, the SBEP has worked to improve water quality, expand marine-life habitats and enhance the natural resources of Sarasota Bay. The board reached consensus that Chappie would serve as liaison for the SBEP partnership.

By ChrisAnn Silver Esformes Islander Reporter The Bradenton Beach Community Redevelopment Agency is on the road to bury utilities along Bridge Street and across Gulf Drive. However, the destruction caused Oct. 10 by Hurricane Michael in the Panhandle has slowed the process. At the Nov. 7 CRA meeting, Commissioner Ralph Cole, CRA chair, said he spoke with Mark Porter, senior utilities coordinator for CDM Smith, the engineering and construction firm hired to oversee the project. According to Cole, Porter said Florida Power and Light is repairing damage from Michael, but should provide plans for the Bradenton Beach project by the end of the year. Emily Anne Smith, recently contracted by the CRA to develop a design plan for the district, said she also heard from Porter. She said the project is planned to start March 2019 on Gulf Drive, followed in April by the Bridge Street portion of the project. Smith said any design work on the south side of Bridge Street could be damaged during the construction process and she will recommend a hold on that portion of the design project until the utilities are underground. “A lot of work can be achieved in all the other areas while we wait on FPL,” Smith said. The CRA approved the utilities project in September, with an estimated cost of $440,000 to ground utilities for Bridge Street, including streetlights and connections for Bridge Street property owners, and $77,000 for the lateral crossings on Gulf Drive between Cortez Road and Fifth Street South. The next community redevelopment agency meeting will be at 9:30 a.m. Wednesday, Dec. 5, at city hall.

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The Florida Maritime Museum is collecting holiday decorations and lining up sponsors for “Maritime by Candlelight” in December. The event, set for Dec. 8, will include an evening of educational activities, food, live music and more. To create a festive atmosphere, FMM is collecting new or gently used holiday decorations. The wish list includes: fake poinsettias, white lights, extension cords, silver lanterns, electronic candles, ribbons, red tablecloths and more. For more information about donations or sponsorships, call museum supervisor Kristin Sweeting at 941-708-6120.

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‘For the Love’ at the Studio

“For the Love of Mangroves” artwork is by Annabel Snyder and is exhibited at the Studio at Gulf and Pine in Anna Maria. The Studio is hosting two exhibits and will welcome the public to an artists’ reception for both 6-8 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 15. The gallery is at 10101 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria. For more information, call 941-778-1906. Islander Courtesy Photo

The Senior Adventures group will visit Sarasota Friday, Nov. 16, to have breakfast and attend a jazz concert. The group will depart at 9:15 a.m. from the Annie Silver Community Center, 103 23rd St. N., Bradenton Beach, for Sunnyside Village in Sarasota. Senior Adventures is a group of older adults that meets most Fridays for an adventure — an outing or a gathering at Annie Silver Community Center. The cost is $5 for the van ride and $2 for a donation at Sunnyside Village. For more information or to RSVP, call Kaye Bell at 941-538-0945.

Comedy from ‘across the pond’ comes to island stage

By Sandy Ambrogi Islander Reporter Gareth Gibbs and his wife Mavis gathered a few friends interested in theater and organized a performance group in 1977. Some 41 years later, the troupe still amuses and entertains audiences far and wide. The Gibbs will bring the Welsh Players back to Anna Maria Island for a production of “Bullshot Crummond” Nov. 23-25 at the Island Players theater, 10009 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria. The production marks more than a dozen plays under Gareth Gibbs’ direction in the local theater. The Gibbs came to the island in 1976 after touring Florida with a play that celebrated the bicentennial. An Island Players director they met while performing “The Noble Spaniard” in Orlando invited them. “We were captivated by Anna Maria,” Gareth said in a phone interview with The Islander. They kept coming back from their home “up in the hills” a short distance from Cardiff, Wales. Gibbs said he first brought the Welsh Players to the island in 1980. They have returned periodically, including for a joint production with the Island Players of a British pantomime, “Cinderella,” in the early 1990s. Gibbs became an Island Players guest director, a position he held until four years ago. “My first play with the IP group was ‘Quartet’ and I remember it sold out,” Gibbs said. The couple began renting a house in Ellenton and staying for three to four months at time, while working at the theater and enjoying the climate. The upcoming performance, “Bullshot Crummond,” is a comedy set before World War II and concerns diamond smuggling, kidnapping and Bullshot Crummond, the quick, though sometimes dimwitted hero of the script. A parody of a British pulp-fiction hero named Bulldog Drummond, the play is driven by sight gags, coincidences and unlikely plot twists. “We’ve never brought a play written by Americans,” Gibbs said. “We are traveling 5,000 miles for just three performances. That is all out of love for the island and the theater.” The Welsh Players, with no home theater, tour in Wales, England, Scotland and Ireland. The troupe also has performed in Canada, Monaco,

Three actors from the Welsh Players rehearse for “Bullshot Crummond” as they prepare to travel to Anna Maria Island. Gareth Gibbs from Wales will bring the players for three performances at the Island Players theater, 10009 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria. Performances will be Nov. 23-25. Islander Photo: Courtesy Welsh Players Jamaica and South Korea, in addition to engagements in the United States. The Welsh Players have been recognized for excellence in theater. Gibbs said he and his wife look forward to returning to Anna Maria Island. In addition to Mavis, who will be the stage manager, and Gibbs, who will be directing, a sound-and-light technician and six actors will make the trip. While in Florida, the troupe members will stay with theater friends on the island and in Bradenton. “I swear I know more people there than I do here in Wales,” Gibbs said by telephone. “We are getting older. It’s always nice to come back Tickets are on sale for $20 each general admission. Performances will be 8 p.m. Friday, Nov. 23, and Saturday Nov. 24, and 2 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 25. For more information or to purchase a ticket, call the box office at 941 778-5755 or go to islandplayers. org.

Island happenings

THE ISLANDER n Nov. 14, 2018 n 13

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Magic of Manatee Chorus, the Bradenton chapter of Sweet Adelines International, will perform the â&#x20AC;&#x153;Holiday Magicâ&#x20AC;? concert Saturday, Dec. 1, in Bradenton. Islander Courtesy Photo

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The Magic of Manatee Chorus, the Bradenton chapter of Sweet Adelines International, is rehearsing its harmonies for the upcoming â&#x20AC;&#x153;Holiday Magicâ&#x20AC;? concert. The chorus and special guests will perform at 2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 1, at Trinity Lutheran Church, 2200 26th St. W., Bradenton. Tickets are $10. For more information, call 941-685-8231 or go online to magicofmanatee.com.

Kiwanis to meet Nov. 17

The Kiwanis Club of Anna Maria Island will gather Saturday, Nov. 17, for a program and breakfast. The program â&#x20AC;&#x201D; featuring remarks by Darrel Shinn about tax laws â&#x20AC;&#x201D; will begin at 8:30 a.m. at the Anna Maria Island Beach Cafe at the Manatee Public Beach, 4000 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. For more information, call Sandy Haas-Martens at 941-778-1383.

Resort hosts jewelry fundraiser

The Friends of Manatee County Animal Services will benefit from Jewelry to the Rescue at the Waterline Resort and Marina. The event, presented by Waterline and Jen Bowman of Keller Williams on the Water, will be 1-4 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 18, at the resort, 5325 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. An announcement said more than â&#x20AC;&#x153;800 pounds and hundreds of unique and beautiful costume jewelry will fill the ballroom.â&#x20AC;? Shoppers are asked to present a piece of costume jewelry or $5 for admission to the event, which will feature jewelry sales and â&#x20AC;&#x153;happy hour prices on food and drinkâ&#x20AC;? from Eliza Annâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Coastal Kitchen. For more information, call the resort at 941-2386262.

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Salvation Army, Kiwanis seek bell ringers for holidays

The Salvation Army Thursday, Nov. 22, will begin its annual red kettle campaign to raise funds to support and sustain its food, shelter and homeless prevention programs. There are several groups in Manatee County that offer to ring bells for a morning, afternoon, day, the organization says more volunteer bell ringers help. When a volunteer is not at a kettle, the Salvation Army pays individuals to ring bells, which raises overhead for the campaign and reduces the amount of funding that can go into direct service programs, according to a news release. Volunteering for bell ringing can be a fun activity for civic groups, school groups and families. The organization will launch the season with its second annual Kettle Kickoff at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, Nov. 14, at the old county courthouse, 1115 Manatee Ave., Bradenton. Representatives from the Anna Maria Island Kiwanis Club â&#x20AC;&#x201D; which leads the ringing effort at the island Publix â&#x20AC;&#x201D; will drop the ceremonial first dollar. If you are interested in learning more about being a volunteer bell ringer, call941-748-5110 or visit www. salvationarmyflorida.org.

8 Artist Mary Roff Mary creates unique, timeless fine jewelry, working with sterling silver & natural gemstones. Her collection is on display in the gallery and on our website. Join us as we kick off our fall season of exhibitions.

2019 Anna Maria Island Calendar

Turkeys collected for holidays

Each year, the Salvation Army Manatee County opens its doors to the community for a Thanksgiving dinner. This yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s dinner will be served noon-1 p.m. at 1204 14th St. W., Bradenton. This annual community meal typically feeds close to 500 people and more than 100 turkeys, stuffing and traditional fixings are served. The organization is seeking donations of turkeys, as well as pies, desserts, stuffing and cranberry sauce. Donations can be dropped off at 1204 14th St. W., Bradenton, 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Monday-Friday. For more information, call 941-748-5110 or visit www.salvationarmyflorida.org.

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The Islander Calendar ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

12th Street West and 12th Avenue West, Bradenton. Also, Saturdays 462-2626. after the first Fridays. Information: villageofthearts@gmail.com. Wednesdays and Saturdays, 9 a.m., horseshoes pitched, Anna Second Saturdays, 2-4 p.m., Music on the Porch, Florida Mari- Maria City Hall, 10005 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria. Information: 941-708ON ANNA MARIA ISLAND time Museum, 4415 119th St. W., Cortez. Info: 941-708-6120. 6130. Most Fridays, 11:30 a.m. or 1 p.m. (call for times) mahjong LOOKING AHEAD OFF AMI Thursday, Nov. 15 games, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Informa6-8 p.m. — Artists’ reception, the Studio at Gulf and Pine, Nov. 18, Manatee Community Concert Band Concert, Braden- tion: 941-778-6341. 10101 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria. Information: 941-778-1906. ton. Mondays, noon, bridge, Roser Memorial Community Church, ONGOING ON AMI Nov. 30-Dec. 2, Bradenton Bluesfest, Bradenton. 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Information: 941-778-0414. Dec. 1, Magic of Manatee Sweet Adelines “Holiday Magic” Most Tuesdays, 11:30 a.m., mahjong games and instruction Through Nov. 18, Island Players’ “Baggage,” 10009 Gulf Drive, concert, Bradenton. for beginners, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Anna Maria. Fee applies. Information: 941-778-5755. Feb. 16-17, 2019, Cortez Commercial Fishing Festival, Information: 941-778-6341. Throughout November, “Our Feathered Friends,” Artists’ Guild Cortez. Tuesdays, noon, duplicate bridge, Episcopal Church of the Gallery, 5414 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Feb. 17, 2019, AMICCO’s opera concert, Bradenton. Annunciation, 4408 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941Information: 941-778-6694. Feb. 22, 2019, U.S. Coast Guard exhibit at Florida Maritime 779-0881. Throughout November, “Impressions” Museum, Cortez. ONGOING OFF AMI by Charlotte Sorsen, Island gallery West, March 31, 2019, AMICCO’s “Diva Wars” concert, Bradenton. 5368 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. InformaFirst and third Wednesdays usually, Roser Memorial CommuKIDS & FAMILY tion: 941-778-6648. nity Church Golfing for God, IMG Academy Golf Club, 4350 El ConThrough Jan. 5, “Fresh and Locally ON ANNA MARIA ISLAND quistador Parkway, Bradenton. Fee applies. Info: 941-778-0414. Sourced” and “For the Love of Mangroves,” the Studio at Gulf and LOOKING AHEAD OFF AMI Pine, 10101 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria. Information: 941-778-1906. Friday, Nov. 16 10 a.m. — Forty Carrots partners in play, Island Library, 5701 Dec. 8, Marauders Holiday Dash and Drive, Bradenton. Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341. CLUBS & Dec. 9, AMICCO “An Island Christmas” concert, Holmes Tuesday, Nov. 20 Beach. COMMUNITY 10 a.m. — Preschool Storytime, Island Library, 5701 Marina Jan. 7-Feb. 9, 2019, Artists’ Guild of Anna Maria Island fine art Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341. ON ANNA MARIA ISLAND exhibition, “The Space Between,” Anna Maria. LOOKING AHEAD ON AMI Feb. 12, 2019, AMICCO’s Jazz Fest, Anna Maria. Wednesday, Nov. 14 Dec. 1, Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce ChristOFF ANNA MARIA ISLAND Noon — Adult coloring club, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, mas tree lighting and Holmes Beach holiday celebration, Holmes Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341. Sunday, Nov. 18 Beach. 6:30 p.m. — Island Time Book Club, Island Library, 5701 Marina 4 p.m. — Manatee Community Concert Brand and the Bay Dec. 8, Anna Maria Island Privateers Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341. Chorale concert, “Celebrating America, The Spirit Lives On,” Neel Christmas Parade, islandwide. Thursday, Nov. 15 Performing Arts Center, 5820 26th St. W., Bradenton. Fee applies. Dec. 14, Anna Maria Center Shops 10:15 a.m. — Friends of Information: 941-753-5634. Christmas celebration, Holmes Beach. the Island Library Book Club ONGOING OFF ANNA MARIA ISLAND Dec. 15, Anna Maria Island Privateers’ meets, Island Library, 5701 Drift-In Christmas, Bradenton Beach. Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Through Dec. 2, John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art’s Information: 941-778-6341. “French Art from the Horvitz Collection,” 5401 Bay Shore Road, ONGOING OFF AMI 2 p.m. — Sunshine StitchSarasota. Fee applies. Information: 941-359-5700. ers Knit and Crochet Club gathers, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, First Saturdays, Family Night at the Museum, South Florida Through Feb. 2, 2019, “The Greek Communities of Tarpon Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341. Museum, 201 10th St. W., Bradenton. Fee applies. Information: Springs and the Bahamas,” Florida MariFriday, Nov. 16 941-746-4131. time Museum, 4419 119th St. W., Cortez. 9:15 a.m. — Senior Adventures carpool to Sunnyside Village Fourth WednesInformation: 941-708-6120. in Sarasota for breakfast and jazz concert, Annie Silver Community days, “Stelliferous Live” Through Feb. 3, 2019, John and Center, 103 23rd St. N., Bradenton Beach. Fee applies. Information: star talk, South Florida Mable Ringling Museum of Art’s “Water941-538-0945. colors from the Permanent Collection,” 5401 Bay Shore Road, Sara- Museum, 201 10th St. W., Saturday, Nov. 17 Bradenton. Fee applies. Information: 941-746-4131. sota. Fee applies. Information: 941-359-5700. 8:30 a.m. — Kiwanis Club of Anna Maria Island breakfast meetSecond Wednesdays, Think + Drink (science), South Florida GAMES, SPORTS & ing with speaker Darrel Shinn talking about tax laws, Anna Maria Museum, 201 10th St. W., Bradenton. Fee applies. Information: OUTDOORS Island Beach Cafe, Manatee Public Beach, 4000 Gulf Drive, Holmes 941-746-4131. Beach. Information: 941-778-1383. ONGOING ON ANNA MARIA ISLAND Wednesdays, 2-4 p.m., Shanty Singers, Florida Maritime 11 a.m. — Meditation session, Island Library, 5701 Marina Museum, 4415 119th St. W., Cortez. Information: 941-708-6120. Wednesdays, AMI Dragon Boat Fun and Fitness Club, time Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341. First Fridays, 6-9 p.m. ArtWalk in the Village of the Arts, around depends on tides, 417 63rd St., Holmes Beach. Information: 941LOOKING AHEAD ON AMI

JOY explores Hawaii

Holmes Beach residents Bruce and Cherrie Birkman will discuss their travels — a seven-day cruise — to the Hawaiian islands — during the Wednesday, Nov. 14, meeting of Roser Memorial Community Church’s JOY/Just Older Youth group. The group meets for a program and a brown-bag lunch at 11 a.m. the second and fourth Wednesdays at the church fellowship hall, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. For more information, call Roser Church at 941-778-0414. Islander Courtesy Photo

Island Dems to meet Nov. 19

The Anna Maria Island Democratic Club will hold its monthly meeting at 11:15 a.m. Monday, Nov. 19, at the IMG Clubhouse, 4350 El Conquistador Parkway, Bradenton. The guest speaker will be Susan A. MacManus, professor emeritus at the University of South Florida and an expert on politics in Florida. She routinely designs and analyzes surveys of public opinion and leads the Sunshine State Survey, which dives into what Floridians value and where residents stand on ballot issues. MacManus will discuss the results of the midterm elections and the implications for 2020 elections. A buffet lunch will be served. The cost is $17 for members and $20 for nonmembers. Registration will begin at 11:15 a.m. For more information, call Harry Kamberis at 941779-0564.

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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 Calendar

Sunday, Nov. 18 1-4 p.m. — Jewelry to the Rescue to beneﬁt Friends of Manatee County Animal Rescue, Waterline Resort and Marina, 5325 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Fee applies. Information: 941- 238-6262. 4 p.m. — All Island Denominations annual Community Thanksgiving Ecumenical Service, St. Bernard Catholic Church, 248 S. Harbor Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-7641. ONGOING ON AMI

Second and fourth Wednesdays, 11 a.m., Just Older Youth/JOY Brown Bag Lunch Series, Roser Memorial Community Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Information: 941-778-0414. 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: 941-538-0945. Second Fridays, 6 p.m., AMI Resident Community Connections, Center of Anna Maria Island, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria. Information: 941-778-1908. Saturdays, 8:30 a.m., Kiwanis Club of Anna Maria Island breakfast meeting, Anna Maria Island Beach Cafe, Manatee Public Beach, 4000 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-1383. Tuesdays, 2-4 p.m., Tech Help, Island Library, 5701 Marina

Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341. Key. Information: 941-383-6491. Tuesdays through May 14, 8:30 a.m.-2 p.m., Anna Maria FarmONGOING OFF AMI er’s Market, City Pier Park, North Bay Boulevard and Pine Avenue. Fridays, 10:30 a.m., Paradise Cafe games, music and socialInformation: 941-708-6130. Tuesdays, noon, Rotary Club of Anna Maria Island, Bridge izing, the Paradise Center, Temple Beth Israel, 567 Bay Isles Road, Street Bistro, 111 Gulf Drive S., Bradenton Beach. Information: 941- Longboat Key. Fee applies. Information: 941-383-6493. Saturdays through May, 9 a.m.-2 p.m., Bradenton Farmers 518-1965. Market, Old Main, Bradenton. Information: 941- 621-6471. LOOKING AHEAD ON AMI

LOOKING AHEAD OFF AMI Dec. 1, Anna Maria Garden Club plant sale, Anna Maria. Dec. 8, Florida Maritime Museum’s Maritime by Candlelight, Dec. 8, Episcopal Church of the Annunciation Holly Berry Cortez. Christmas and Food Market, Holmes Beach. Dec. 14, Anna Maria Holiday of Treasures, Anna Maria. OFF ANNA MARIA ISLAND

GOOD TO KNOW

SAVE THE DATES Wednesday, Nov. 14 Nov. 22, Thanksgiving Day. 10 a.m. — Salvation Army second annual Kettle Kickoff with Dec. 24, Christmas Eve. Anna Maria Island Kiwanis Club dropping the ceremonial ﬁrst dollar, Dec. 25, Christmas Day. 1115 Manatee Ave., Bradenton. Information: 941-748-5110. Dec. 31, New Year’s Eve. 11:30 a.m. — Off Stage Ladies meeting and luncheon, IMG Academy Golf Club, 3450 El Conquistador Parkway, Bradenton. GET LISTED Fee apples. Information: 941-567-4960. Send announcements for The Islander calendar to calendar@ 3 p.m. — Florida Maritime Museum lecture, “What’s the Big islander.org. The deadline for listings is the Wednesday before the Deal with Sea Grasses?” by Jay Leverone, 4415 119th St. W., publication date. Please include the date, time, location and descripCortez. Information: 941-708-6120. tion of the event, as well as a phone number for publication. Tuesday, Nov. 20 5 p.m. — Longboat Key annual Community Interfaith Thanksgiving Service, Temple Beth Israel, 567 Bay Isles Road, Longboat

Roser plans community Thanksgiving

Yes, there will be roasted turkey with all the trimmings and traditional desserts served at Roser Memorial Community Church’s “Genuine Community Thanksgiving.” The difference between their tables and most family tables on the holiday? The church seats more than a hundred, some years closer to 200 people. The public is invited to the meal, which will be at 1 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 22, in the church fellowship hall, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. To make a reservation or volunteer, go online to www.roserchurch.com/ thanksgiving or call the church office at 941-778-0414. The event is for anyone who seeks a place to share a meal in the presence of family and friends, states a news release from Roser. “From patrons of the Roser Food Pantry to millionaire Anna Maria Island residents, from families vacationing on the island to lonely widows and widowers, everyone is welcome.” There is no charge for the meal served to diners seated at tables decorated with linen clothes, silver and china. Reservations are requested by Sunday, Nov. 18, and seating is lim-

THE ISLANDER n Nov. 14, 2018 n 15

ited. The church asks that those who make reservations but then make other plans cancel so others can attend. Volunteers roast 13 turkeys and bake 10 apple, 10 pumpkin and 10 pecan pies, which they bring them to the Roser kitchen on Thanksgiving morning. Volunteers also prepare the food and set up on Wednesday before Thanksgiving. Earlier on Thanksgiving Day, at 11 a.m., Roser will hold a service in the chapel, where island pioneers worshiped more than 100 years ago on Thanksgiving. For more information, go to www. roserchurch.com, call 941-778-0414.

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Pine Avenue’s revolution, ‘PAR’ turns 10

By Ryan Paice Islander Reporter It was more than a century in the making. And Pine Avenue has changed a great deal in the past decade. Ten years ago in September, the first shovel turned on the first Pine Avenue Restoration buildings — at 315 Pine Ave. and 317 Pine Ave. And, as the saying goes, “If you build it.…” Project creators Mike Coleman and Ed Chiles sought to create a walkable community, with businesses that attracted shoppers, while maintaining the old-Florida character of the city. Coleman began thinking about the project when he was shopping on Pine with his wife and saw an archival photo of people promenading down the avenue in fancy attire. “I sort of made a joke. I said, ‘Let’s raise $10,000,000 and buy Pine Avenue,’” Coleman said in a phone interview earlier this fall. “Then I really started thinking about it and, I thought, ‘Why is Anna Maria undervalued as opposed to other barrier islands?’ It’s got the best beaches, the greatest neighborhoods, we love it.” “My solution was that it never actually got finished,” Coleman added. “Pine Avenue was supposed to be what it is like now.” Today, Pine Avenue is lined with a mixture of wellmaintained residential and commercial spaces. While authorized to build three-story buildings, PAR opted for two-story buildings to maintain the old-Florida character of the avenue, bolstered with pastel paints and wide covered porches inviting Sunshine State visitors to seek shelter in the shade. Merchants and shoppers came next. Rebecca Preston, owner of Shiny Fish Emporium, 306 Pine Ave., said walking and shopping on the avenue is part of the Anna Maria experience. “I’ve seen people really coming to count on this as part of their experience during their vacation,” Preston said. “It’s been really sweet to see.” “I think it has enhanced the north end for sure,” she added. City Commissioner Doug Copeland, a resident of Anna Maria for 44 years, said the PAR improvements have “been a great benefit to the city. The shops that are there are quality shops. Some of them actually serve the community,” Copeland said in a phone interview

A Pine Avenue Easter celebration takes place at PAR properties. The businesses in the PAR buildings have hosted holiday events, sidewalk sales and porch parties over the past 10 years. Islander File Photo: Jack Elka

In July 2007, Anna Maria resident Mike Coleman stands next to a rendering by architect Gene Aubry of some of the 21 properties he and Ed Chiles had under contract for purchase to undertake their Pine Avenue project. ThenMayor Fran Barford is pictured at the dais. Islander File Photo

Oct. 4. “The project has taken a street that pretty much had some houses in disrepair and rehabbed those into functioning businesses,” he said. Before the project, Pine was mostly residential, with several properties in poor condition. “Some of the old homes that they tore down and replaced were virtually dilapidated,” Copeland said. “They weren’t condemnable, but they certainly weren’t

up to the standards that people require today.” Jo-Ann Lefner, owner of Belle by the Sea, 218 C Pine Ave., said the environment was entirely different from what it is now. “It was very quiet,” Lefner said in an interview Oct. 11. “There were a few little cottages on the street, but it was more or less desolate. There were a lot of feral cats.” Please see PAR, Next page

Island Players handle ‘Baggage,’ audience gives rave reviews By Kathy Prucnell Islander Reporter Romantic comedy is timeless. Who can’t relate to couples in love and conflict — people who seem wrong for each other but are nonetheless attracted? “Baggage,” written by Sam Bobrick and directed by James Thaggard, opened to a sold-out and enthusiastic crowd Nov. 8 at the Island Players theater, 10009 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria. Engaging on the battlefield of love are Island Players veterans: Jennifer Kwiatkowski as Phyllis Novak, a control freak and book editor; Jennifer Caldwell as her friend Mitzi Cartwright; Jalex Scott as Bradley Naughton, an eccentric IRS lawyer; and Rick Kopp as Jonathan Alexander, an annoying but instructive psychologist. “It was great,” said Jeff Marty of Chicago. “It wasn’t a bad ending either.” Also impressed were Ellen and Dale DeHaan of

Milestones

The Islander welcomes stories about islanders and island life, as well as photographs and notices of the milestones in readers’ lives — weddings, births, anniversaries, travels, obituaries and other events. Submit your announcements and photographs with captions for publication — along with contact information — to news@ islander.org. Also, visit us on Facebook and join the 12,300-plus friends who “like” The Islander.

Grand Rapids, Michigan. “It’s cute — a very interesting play,” said Ellen DeHaan. And her husband, Dale DeHaan agreed: “For opening night, they’re doing a beautiful job.” The curtain opens as Phyllis meets Bradley after an airport luggage mix-up. At first meeting, the two singles, Bradley fresh off a broken heart, and a needy Phyllis hoping to mold her perfect man, trade snarky barbs after Bradley lugs her suitcase, filled with paperweights, to her home. Phyllis had already broken into his suitcase and snooped among his belongings — excusing herself over concerns for her safety and confessing her “over-

whelming need to know how things end.” Jonathan assumes a classic Greek chorus role — both informing the audience and warning the couple, who become increasingly attracted to each other, what a bad match they make, and of their inevitable demise. Mitzi plays the flamboyant, free spirit who supports her friend, all the while looking for a date. To the crowd filling every seat in the theater, Thaggard came out before the curtain rose to introduce “Baggage” and gave kudos to the playwright’s “hilarious script.” Bobrick boasts television-writing credits, including “The Andy Griffith Show,” “Bewitched” and “The Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour.” The director also complimented an incredible cast and a hard-working crew, including set designer Jan Van Wart, Patrick Bedell for lighting, sound designer Mike Lusk, Pamela Hopkins for costumes, stage managers Lusk and Denise Handley, makeup and hair designer Rita Lameroux and Cathy Edgerton on props. “Baggage” runs through Nov. 18, with performances at 8 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday and a 2 p.m. Sunday matinee. The box office is open 9 a.m.-1 p.m. MondaySaturday and an hour before performances. Jennifer Kwiatkowski as Phyllis Novak and Jalex Scott as Bradley Naughton embrace their differences in the rom-com “Baggage,” directed by James Thaggard and playing until Nov. 18 at the Island Players theater, 10009 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria. Islander Courtesy Photo

THE ISLANDER n Nov. 14, 2018 n 17

PAR CONTINUED FROM PAGE 16 Coleman thought the project would benefit the city. One problem was finding others interested in getting involved in such a large investment. When Chiles became an executive partner, development ramped up. Within a couple of months of Coleman and Chiles forming the Pine Avenue Restorations investment company in 2007, PAR had 21 lots on Pine under contract, according to Coleman. Despite facing some opposition in the form of public protest, PAR continued to muster both political and financial support. After progressing through the necessary zoning issues and with the cooperation of then-Mayor Fran Barford, construction began in September 2008. Over six years, 11 two-story, cottage-style buildings were finished, providing both commercial and residential space along Pine Avenue. The buildings filled with new business and PAR garnered awards from the Florida Green Building Coalition, as well as praise from the United Nationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s World Tourism Organization for its green development and zero-energy output. Colemanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s vision for the avenue had become reality. Copeland said commissioners also had discussed work on Pine in prior comprehensive plans, but never pursued their plans like Coleman did with PAR. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Someone actually had the nerve to do what the city wanted done. So I thought it was a good thing,â&#x20AC;? Copeland said. However, some parts of the restoration plan never happened. Coleman and Chiles planned to build a boutique-style hotel on the vacant lots where City Pier Park is now, but the idea was shut down by the commission. Nevertheless, the PAR buildings offered environmentally-friendly retail spaces that business owners remain satisfied with to this day. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve always been very happy with where I am,â&#x20AC;? Lefner said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I feel as though I am an added feature on the street, and I try to make other businesses feel that way around me.â&#x20AC;? She said the project was crucial in providing another shopping district on the island. Commissioner Dale Woodland has served the commission 15 years and Mayor Dan Murphy pointed to him as one of the biggest proponents of the project when it was moving through the city. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I think weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve made a lot of improvements over the last few years,â&#x20AC;? Woodland said in a phone interview Oct. 4. â&#x20AC;&#x153;And I think that this is going to be one of the more important ones in the long stretch.â&#x20AC;? Still, Woodland is concerned with parking and safety on Pine. He said parking spots at PAR properties require people to back out onto Pine, blocking traffic and endangering pedestrians.

In September 2009, Pine Avenue Restoration LLC continued construction of its retail-office-residential project on Pine Avenue with the demolition of buildings at 401 Pine Ave., formerly occupied by Island Podiatry and Lor-Ells and Saraâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hair Design. Those businesses moved to PARâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Cozy Corner at 315 and 317 Pine Ave. Islander File Photo Mike Coleman began thinking about the Pine Avenue Restoration project when he was shopping on Pine with his wife and saw an archival photo of people promenading down the avenue in fancy attire. Woodland said he would like to find solutions to parking and safety issues on the avenue, however they might work out. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t care what happens,â&#x20AC;? he said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Anything we do to improve it will be a huge improvement.â&#x20AC;? Copeland agreed that safety on Pine is an issue to address. Lefner said she would like to see streetlights that encourage walking along Pine at night and consistent sidewalks to keep pedestrians safe. Her wish list also includes a wine bar or upscale restaurant to attract evening diners. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t, per se, have a restaurant that people drive to come and eat, so it cuts us from having evening hours,â&#x20AC;? Lefner said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s really no reason for all of us to stay open after five oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;clock because we wouldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t get that walking traffic.â&#x20AC;? While work on Colemanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s vision for Pine Avenue was finished years ago, the avenue remains influx. The people promenading in the photo that inspired Coleman likely began their walk at the historic Anna Maria City Pier, a fixture at the east end of Pine for more than 100 years. The pier, damaged from Hurricane Irma, was demolished this year. A new pier will be built, with construction to begin by the end of the year, according to Murphy. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The city pier started it all,â&#x20AC;? Coleman said. He added, â&#x20AC;&#x153;It has been a vital resource to this community, and it will be again when they finish it. I know there is some frustration right now, but I think the mayor and the commission are doing the best they can with a tough situation, and when itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s all done, everyone will be happy with the results.â&#x20AC;?

Roadwatch Eyes on the road

The Florida Department of Transportation and Manatee County posted the following notices for the week of Nov. 12: gulf Drive in Bradenton Beach: As part of a pipeline replacement project, crews are working on Gulf Drive between Ninth Street North and Cortez Road, then proceeding eastward on the bridge embankment. The primary impact will be experienced by southbound travelers on Gulf Drive, who will share a lane with those turning east onto Cortez Road. Avenue C in Bradenton Beach: As part of a pipeline replacement project, right-of-way restoration is expected to begin in November and will involve asphalt placement and paving. gulf Drive in Holmes Beach: As part of a pipeline replacement project, Gulf Drive is closed to northbound traffic at 81st Street, with northbound traffic being detoured onto 81st Street to access Palm Drive. For more information about the pipeline projects, go online to amipipereplacement.com. For the latest information, go online to www. fl511.com or dial 511.

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Bradenton Beach agrees to fund BSM holiday decor

By ChrisAnn Silver Esformes Islander Reporter Bridge Street will be aglow this holiday season. Bows, garlands, custom banners and a blaze of lights will grace the buildings on Bridge Street, including the Gulf Drive roundabout and the clock tower. At a Nov. 7 Bradenton Beach Community Redevelopment Agency meeting, members approved a motion to authorize Commissioner Ralph Cole, CRA chair, to sign an agreement to partner with the Bridge Street Merchants for professional holiday decorations. Commissioner Jake Spooner, CRA member and commission liaison to the Bridge Street Merchants, presented the agreement to partner with the merchants for decorations and services from Christmas Designers of Pompano Beach. The CRA board comprises the mayor and commissioners and restaurateurs Ed Chiles and John Horne. The motion passed 4-0. Commissioner Randy White, Horne and Chiles were absent with excuse.

Holiday boat parade in Bradenton Beach

A lighted boat parade is heading to Bradenton Beach for the Christmas holiday. Mike Bazzy, owner of the Bradenton Beach Marina, 402 Church Ave. N., told the Bradenton Beach Community Redevelopment Agency Nov. 7 that he is planning a boat parade for 7 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 15. He said it would dovetail with the Bridge Street Merchants’ event, Christmas on Bridge Street, planned the same day. Bazzy said the parade route would take boaters from the Cortez Bridge to Longboat Pass, motoring past the Historic Bridge Street Pier and a return trip to the marina. He said he spoke with about six commercial boat owners who will be participating, and he plans to have prizes and parade judges. Additionally, Bazzy said he plans to decorate the marina with holiday lights, as a gateway to the city that can be seen from the Cortez Bridge. — ChrisAnn Silver Esformes

The cost for the decorations is $14,227, with $11,935 for the purchase of the products and $2,292 for insurance, installation and storage. The agreement with the merchants includes a five-year commitment for storage fees, up to $2,700 a year. The contract is between the merchants and Christmas Designers, with the CRA contributing to the cost. At the October CRA meeting, the CRA approved partnering with the merchants for the decorations, not to exceed $32,000. The merchants have invested about $20,000 over five years, since 2013, on holiday decorations. The merchants already have roofline lights, decorations for the roundabout at Bridge Street and Gulf Drive and a large, artificial tree. A prior quote included the purchase of three skyline lights across Bridge Street, but Spooner said Nov. 7 that the timeline is too tight to install skylines this season, so the cost was reduced. The decorations will be installed before Thanksgiving and stay up through New Year’s Day. Mayor John Chappie said he would like to see the Historic Bridge Street Pier sign — which was removed when the AMOB sign went up in the same location near the foot of the pier — replaced and decorated.

Reinstalling the pier sign has been on hold for nearly a year, awaiting modifications to the AMOB sign. City attorney Ricinda Perry suggested the city pier sign be reinstalled in a temporary “test spot” for the holidays, with the final location for the sign to be determined. A motion passed 4-0 for Chappie to work with public works director Tom Woodard and CRA designer Emily Anne Smith to find a temporary location for the pier sign. Additionally, Chappie said he would speak with members of the Scenic Waves Partnership Committee, which has been working on relocating the sign, to let them know about the temporary plan. The board also discussed expanding the holiday decorations to include more of the historic district in future years. The CRA district, bordered by Cortez Road, Sarasota Bay, Fifth Street South and the Gulf of Mexico, was deemed blighted in 1992, allowing for incremental tax revenue from Manatee County to promote restoration and growth, including tourism. CRA funds are intended for enhancements for the district, and are separate from the city budget. The next Bradenton Beach CRA meeting will be at 9:30 a.m. Wednesday, Dec. 5, at city hall, 107 Gulf Drive N. The roundabout at Bridge Street and Gulf Drive in Bradenton Beach is aglow for the holiday season in a rendering of the proposed holiday decorations. Islander Courtesy Photos

Holiday banners on utility poles along Bridge Street are planned in the BSM decorating package.

The Islander, Holmes Beach honor those who served The audience stands and salute Nov. 12 as the Palma Sola Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 10141 Honor Guard, led by Capt. Jerry Gallagher, presents the colors at the beginning of the IslanderHolmes Beach Veterans Day Salute at Holmes Beach City Hall, 5801 Marina Drive. Islander Photos: ChrisAnn Silver Esformes

Members of the Pines Park Quartet, including former Bradenton Beach Mayor Bob Bartelt, left, Shirley Graham, Linda Maerker and David Graham, perform Nov. 12 at The Islander-Holmes Beach Veterans Day Salute. The quartet sang “More Than a Name on the Wall” by the Statler Brothers and an adaptation of “Hallelujah” by Leonard Cohen.

Bradenton Beach Police Chief Bill Tokajer, left, speaks Nov. 12 while Holmes Beach Mayor Bob Johnson listens to the presentation during the Islander-Holmes Beach Veterans Day Salute at Holmes Beach City Hall.

THE ISLANDER n Nov. 14, 2018 n 21

ArtsHop tunes in for symphony, sunset on the sand Maestro Alfred Gershfeld directs the Anna Maria Island Concert Chorus & Orchestra Nov. 10 at Symphony on the Sand on Coquina Beach in Bradenton Beach.

The crowd spills over the fences at Symphony on the Sand, performed by Anna Maria Island Concert Chorus & Orchestra at Coquina Beach. Organizers estimate more than 2,000 people attended the Nov. 10 event. Islander Photos: Kathy Prucnell Soprano Ashley Thunder Lowe performs Nov. 10 with the Anna Maria Island Concert Chorus & Orchestra at Symphony on the Sand.

Tenor Russell Andrade performs at Symphony on the Sand.

Joe Chappie, left, and his brother, Bradenton Beach Mayor John Chappie, are among the patrons teending dinner at Symphony on the Sand at Coquina Beach.

Sunset and a sandcastle on the beach herald the event and a photo-op for guests of Symphony on the Sand.

The Islander, Holmes Beach honor those who served

Veterans who served in the Korean War, WWII and the Vietnam War were part of the crowd Nov. 12 at the Islander and Holmes Beach Veterans Day program at Holmes Beach City Hall, 5801 Marina Drive.

Holmes Beach Police Chief Bill Tokajer, left, Mayor Bob Johnson and Anna Maria Mayor Dan Murphy — all military veterans — chat over coffee Nov. 12 before the start of The Islander-Holmes Beach Veterans Day Salute. Holmes Beach Mayor Bob Johnson delivered a proclamation for Veterans Day, urging “all citizens of Holmes Beach to recognize the valor and sacrifice of veterans through ceremonies and giving thanks.”Islander Photos: ChrisAnn Silver Esformes

Gathering

Obituaries Laurie Crawford

Laurie Crawford has died. She was a hairstylist at Snips Hair Design in Anna Maria and served on the Manatee County Animal Services Advisory Board.

St. B to host AIDâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Thanksgiving service

St. Bernard Catholic Church will host the annual All Island Denominationsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Thanksgiving ecumenical service Nov. 18. AID is an organization of the island churches that hosts ecumenical services and other programs, as well as collects for and distributes aid to islanders in need. Those who attend are encouraged to bring donations for the food pantry at Roser Memorial Community Church. Refreshments will be served after the program. The program will begin at 4 p.m. at the church, 248 S. Harbor Drive, Holmes Beach. More information about AID and the services the organization provides island residents and those attending island churches is available at the churches or through the Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce. For more information about the service, call Kathryn Martin at 941-778-7641.

Longboat Key community plans interfaith service

Harriett Frances Dawson Keyser

Harriett Frances Dawson Keyser of Holmes Beach died June 17. She was 106. She attended Simmons College in Boston, where she earned a bachelorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s degree in mathematics and physics. In May 1934, she married her high school sweetheart, Robert Keyser. She and her family lived in Maine and Ohio and then, in 1986, she and her husband purchased a home at on 65th Street in Holmes Beach. A celebration of life will be held at 4 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 18, at the Ugly Grouper, 5704 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. She is survived by children Beryl Love-Rosche, William and wife Joan, and Bruce and wife Sandi; 15 grandchildren; 36 great-grandchildren; 18 greatgreat-grandchildren; and numerous step-family and spouses.

Edward F. Havlik

Edward F. Havlik, 74, died Nov. 3, in Holland, Michigan. He was a winter resident of Anna Maria. He was born March 26, 1944, to Helena Leach and Ed. A real estate developer, homebuilder and consultant, he attended Northern Michigan University from 1962-67 and was president of the student body. He later served as president of the board, an emeritus trustee and was designated a distinguished alumni in 1983. After graduating with a degree in business administration, he worked for a national retail chain before becoming a sales manager for an international home-

The Longboat Key community is invited to the annual interfaith Thanksgiving service at 5 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 20, at Temple Beth Israel, 567 Bay Isles Road, Longboat Key. The program will be led by Rabbi Stephen Sniderman of Temple Beth Israel. The Rev. Dr. Kenneth Blyth of St. Armands Lutheran Church, the Rev. Dr. Norman Pritchard of Christ Church, the Rev. Bill Friederich of the Longboat Island Chapel, Mimi Horwitz of the Longboat Island Chapel, the Rev. Gerry Finegan of St. Mary, Star of the Sea and the Rev. Dee de Montmollin of All Angels by the Sea Episcopal Church will participate. Thanksgiving worship Those who attend should bring a nonperishable food item to donate to the All Faithâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Food Bank of All island Denomination thanksgiving ecuSarasota-Manatee. menical service, 4 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 18, St. BerFor more information call the Longboat Island nard Catholic Church, 248 S. Harbor Drive, Holmes Chapel at 941-383-6491. Beach. Longboat Key interfaith thanksgiving service, 5 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 20, Temple Beth Israel, 567 Bay At your service Obituaries, offered as a community service in The Isles Road, Longboat Key. Islander, may be submitted to news@islander.org.

Church happenings

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.

builder. He acquired Chicago-based homebuilder United Development from Urban Development in 1980 and, over many decades, he built thousands of homes and developed real estate in Illinois Michigan, Arizona, Ohio, Tennessee and Colorado. Later in life, he became an advocate for education of the underprivileged, earning a doctor of letters from Jordan College. He also enjoyed his work serving on the board of Comfort Research and mentoring young entrepreneurs in business. He loved adventure in traveling, skiing, hunting trips, motorcycle adventures around the globe, bareboating and scuba, fishing and more. Memorial contributions can be made to Hospice of Holland at www.langelandsterenberg.com. Mr. Havlik is survived by his wife, Nancy (Garnhart); children Laurie and husband Andy Bulson of Inverness, Illinois, Matthew Havlik of Holland and John and wife Kristi Havlik of Missoula, Montana; grandchildren Drew, Maddy and Jack Bulson, Paloma and Levi, and Gwyn and Jack Finn; sisters Laverne Lehman and Loretta Karnik; sisters- and brothers-inlaws Mary Ropar, Georgianna and Fritz Heinke, Joe Galbraith and Jack and Phyllis Garnhart; numerous nieces and nephews; and friends.

Margaret â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Peggyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Allen Potter

Margaret â&#x20AC;&#x153;Peggyâ&#x20AC;? Allen Potter, 93, died July 3. She pursued a natural talent for art with classes at Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts, Moore School of Design, Michigan State University and Lansing Community College. She married Howard Spencer Potter in 1949 and completed the Famous Artist Course in Commercial Potter Art while raising four children. After vacationing on Anna Maria Island for many years, they moved to Holmes Beach in 1986 from East Lansing, Michigan. Mrs. Potter was an active member of the Episcopal Church Women and choir at Church of the Annunciation in Holmes Beach. She was a founding member of the Artistsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Guild of Anna Maria Island and served many years as president. Her children and grandchildren remember her strength and unwavering love of family. A celebration of life will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 24, with a luncheon to follow at the Church of the Annunciation, 4408 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. Mrs. Potter is survived by her daughters, Tina Potter Evans and husband Dana of Kingsley, Michigan, and Megg Potter Faillace and husband Ralph of Bradenton; son Howard Spencer Potter Jr. and wife Corinne of Sodus Point, New York; grandchildren Joel Rasho, Kelly Frantz, Jeremy Evans, Stephen Faillace, Eliza Faillace, Margot Horton, Michael and Matthew; great-granddaughter Isabelle; and many nieces and nephews. Founded 1956

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Fireﬁghters drill teamwork, life-saving skills By Kathy Prucnell Islander Reporter “Break, break. We have a mayday. We have a mayday. We have a mayday. Division 1 is missing a firefighter. Do not know the location. Do not know who.” “Mayday” — the fire department dispatch — signals a firefighter is down inside a burning structure. And while it’s something firefighters hope never to hear, it’s a test, among others, they take serious in practice. Firefighters “act like it’s the real deal” in quarterly mutual aid training that brings together firefighters from West Manatee, the city of Bradenton, Longboat Key and the Cedar Hammock districts, said West Manatee Fire Rescue Chief Tom Sousa. Most recently, WMFR hosted a series of fireground training operations Nov. 6-8, including search and rescue drills, at the district’s Station 2 at 10350 Cortez Road W., Cortez. Fog machines, body dummies and a structure capable of simulating a burning building played roles in training for forced entries and rescues of trapped victims. Two engines, two ladder trucks and a rescue truck were deployed for the Nov. 8 drills. Some 20 firefighters tested chain saws, axes, halli-

Streetlife

By Kathy Prucnell

Island police blotter

Anna Maria No reports. Anna Maria is policed by the MCSO. Bradenton Beach Nov. 1, 2400 block of Avenue C, vehicle burglary. A laptop valued at $500 was stolen from a vehicle reportedly left open for 10-15 minutes. Nov. 5, Coquina Park, 1900 Gulf Drive S., warrant arrest. Bradenton Beach police found a 22-year-old man sleeping in his car after 3 a.m. Checking the tag, they determined the man was wanted on a Sarasota County warrant for false imprisonment and domestic battery. Officers awakened and arrested him. He was transported to the Manatee County jail. Nov. 5, 10th Street South on the beach, criminal mischief. A cement groin was defaced with red and black paint. An officer from the Bradenton Police Department brought a suspect to the scene to meet a Bradenton Beach police officer. The 20-year-old female allegedly told officers she had spray-painted

gan bars, ropes, hoses and the radius of an aerial device to connect the large ladder to a structure. “It went very well,” said firefighter Jay Johnson, who led a quick response during the Nov. 8 drill. Even so, there were teaching moments — such as when a radio dispatch couldn’t be heard over a chain saw in use on the roof. Because proper communications can avert a disaster, an “all-stop” order brought the crews out of the building for a discussion. PLEASE SEE FiReFigHteRs, NExT PAGE LBKFR firefighterparamedic Trey Bowlin opens a hydrant Nov. 8, providing water for the simulated operations at WMFR Station 2 in Cortez. the groin after having a bad day at work. Bradenton Beach is policed by BBPD. Cortez No reports. Cortez is policed by the MCSO. Holmes Beach Nov. 3, 200 block of Haverkos Court, noise violation. Holmes Beach police were dispatched to a complaint about a loud party at 10:14 p.m. and metered the noise, which averaged 63-64 decibels in violation of the 10 p.m.-8 a.m. 50-decibel limit. The homeowner apologized and said she was celebrating her 60th birthday. Police issued her a noise ordinance citation. Nov. 4, Gulf Drive at 28th Street, cocaine. An officer observed a weaving vehicle, determined the driver’s license was revoked and, making a traffic stop on a 33-year-old Palmetto man at the wheel, noted an odor of intoxicants. Police searched the man and his vehicle and found 0.89 grams of cocaine. PostMiranda, the man allegedly admitted to using cocaine. He was arrested for driving on a revoked license and cocaine possession and was transported to the Manatee

Coastal Thanksgiving

Man gets probation for DUI, refusing test A Sarasota motorist was handed 12-months probation for driving under the influence and refusing to submit to DUI testing. Stephen Gorski, now 27, was arrested by Holmes Beach police March 1, after police clocked him speeding on Gulf Drive and observed him run a red light, according to the HBPD report. Police also reported two fully-loaded guns in his vehicle, for which he was not charged. Gorski pleaded no contest Sept. 17 with an open plea, allowing 12th Circuit Judge Robert Farrance to determine the sentence. He faced a year in jail on the charges, according to a court document. DUI is a second-degree misdemeanor. Refusing to undergo testing is a first-degree misdemeanor. Under the probation order, Gorski is to complete an advanced DUI program, participate in a victim impact panel and perform 100 hours of public service work. The judge also ordered his vehicle impounded for 10 days and his driver’s license suspended for six months, with a business purpose exception. His ticket for running a red light was dismissed in open court in September. Gorski was assessed more than $2,800 in court fines and costs, of which 1,700 was paid, according to court records. — Kathy Prucnell County jail. Nov. 4, 800 block of Manatee Avenue, marijuana ordinance. ., Holmes Beach police pulled over a vehicle traveling east at about 10 p.m. for an inoperable headlight. Police noted the odor of marijuana and found 2.8 grams of marijuana in the vehicle. The 21-year-old male driver was issued a citation for marijuana possession and a written warning for the equipment violation. Nov. 5, 300 block of 64-65th Street, noise. Just after midnight, police were dispatched to a complaint of loud music at a vacation rental home. When officers went to the door, they noted the renter appeared intoxicated and had a large laceration on his head. Another partygoer told police the man had cut his head when he jumped into the pool. An officer recommended emergency care. EMS was summoned and the renter was transported to Blake Medical Center in Bradenton. The noise complaint was referred to code enforcement. Holmes Beach is policed by HBPD. Streetlife is based on incident reports and narratives from the BBPD, HBPD and MCSO.

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Matt Taylor and Brent Kruse, Longboat Key Fire Rescue firefighterparamedics, break down the door of the training building to find a trapped dummy.

Bradenton Fire Department firefighters climb onto the roof of the training facility with an aerial device Nov. 8 during a mutual aid drill at WMFR Station 2 in Cortez. Firefighters continued from 24 “Communications can be very difficult. A lot can get lost in communications. We need to be cognizant of radio traffic even though we’re working,” Johnson said. The four agencies’ firefighters are full-time employees, ranging 18- to 60-years old, with the younger guys learning from the elders, he added. Johnson also noted the drills aim at preparing firefighters to work together on a large fire. “It allows us to grow in our skills and abilities before we have an event,” Johnson said. Not only do WMFR, LBKFR, BFD and CHFD rotate mutual-aid training between departments, he added “they train on each shift, every day.” And practice can pay off. The mayday drill ended Nov. 8 with a two-man crew pulling out a Bradenton firefighter — alive.

West Manatee Fire Rescue firefighter Tyler MacDonald, right, is ready to drill as firefighter Mike Petrosino and Lt. Dan Tackett gear up Nov. 8 at WMFR Station 2, 10350 Cortez Road W., Cortez. Islander Photos: Kathy Prucnell

26 n Nov. 14, 2018 n THE ISLANDER

Race to AME to sponsor Dolphin Dash

By Ryan Paice Islander Reporter With two months before runners take off through the streets of Holmes Beach, hopes are high for sponsors for the 13th annual Dolphin Dash 5K and 1-Mile Fun Run. Coordinating the race for the first time, Kelly Gitt aims to pull off an event that is fun for everyone and provides an opportunity for businesses that have struggled with the impact of red tide to gain publicity through sponsorships. Sponsors will get company logos or names printed on the back of Dolphin Dash T-shirts, which participants receive in their race swag bags. The deadline for sponsorship registration is Thursday, Nov. 15, and costs $100 minimum. Sponsors also can place promotional material in race bags and offer prizes to winners. The sponsor with the largest donation will get its logo or name placed on the middle back of the shirt. “We find that, on the island, there are a lot of local businesses and they’re always the ones to give,” Gitt said in an interview Nov. 7. “They’re super-generous with all of us, and we really want to do everything we can to acknowledge all of them.” The event, coordinated by Gitt and supported by the Bradenton Runners Club, will benefit the Anna Maria Elementary Parent-Teacher Organization. The

race will be Jan. 19, 2019, with day-of registration at 7 a.m. in the south parking lot at AME, 4700 Gulf Drive N., Holmes Beach. The 5K will begin at 8 a.m. and the 1-Mile Fun Run will step off at 9 a.m. After the races finish at AME, awards will be presented for age brackets. Gitt helped with the 2018 race in January, following runners in a golf cart and cleaning up the track behind them. She said the event typically draws 150175 people, but she hopes to register 200 for the 2019 race. Additionally, Gitt hopes to attract volunteers, including students of local schools seeking credit for service hours. Gitt also wants past runners to contact her about their experiences in the Dolphin Dash. “If there is anybody that would be willing to share their story with us, we’d love to hear it ahead of time, so we can promote that at the race,” Gitt said. “We’d like to know who is really in the race and why they run it.” The deadline to register as a runner will be Jan. 12, with a race fee of $35 for adults and $15 for children, as well as a $3 signup fee. Go online to runsignup.com or runnergirl.com to preregister or for more information. Prospective sponsors or past runners can call or text Gitt at 941-357-448 or email her at kelly@gittsoldit.com.

By Ryan Paice, ryan@islander.org

AME calendar

• Thursday, Nov. 15, progress reports.. • Friday, Nov. 16, Mayor’s Feed the Hungry food drive ends. • Monday, Nov. 19-Friday, Nov. 23, Thanksgiving holiday, no school. • Monday, Dec. 10, 3:30 p.m., SAC meeting. • Tuesday, Dec. 18, 5-6:30 p.m., PTO dinner in the school cafeteria. Starting at 6:30 p.m., fifthgrade play “Santa’s Rockin’ Christmas Eve” in the auditorium. • Saturday, Dec. 24-Monday, Jan. 7, winter break, no school. • Tuesday, Jan. 8, students return from winter break. • Thursday, Jan. 10, second quarter report cards go home. • Saturday, Jan. 19, 8 a.m., Dolphin Dash. • Monday, Jan. 21, no school, districtwide. • Tuesday, Jan. 22, 5-7 p.m., STEM Night. Anna Maria Elementary is at 4700 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. For more information, call the school at 941708-5525.

Public reception planned for kids’ AMITW art

AME K-Kids ‘Make A Wish’

Members of the Anna Maria Elementary K-Kids Club present a check for $304.58 to Make-A-Wish Southern Florida Suncoast Region development coordinator Nicole Ruth to be used for local children’s wishes. The club voted to fundraise for the cause for a week in October, selling “candygrams” for 25 cents each to staff, students, parents and friends. Islander Photo: Ryan Paice

Signs featuring the art of Anna Maria Elementary students will soon help guide beachgoers from Cortez Road to Longboat Pass away from the dunes and plants that help protect sea turtles. Sea turtles follow their instincts to the shimmer of light on the Gulf of Mexico and dunes along the beach help block light from beachfront homes and street lights and help turtles reach their destination. The new signs, which state, “This dune protects our island and our wildlife. Please, respect our dunes and choose the right path,” feature art by students. More than 50 drawings depicting the importance of saving wildlife will be displayed and refreshments will be served 4-5 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 15, at the Waterline Resort, 5325 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. The project was funded by the Sarasota Bay Estuary Program, and signs will be replaced by the Manatee County Department of Parks and Natural Resources starting in December.

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THE ISLANDER n Nov. 14, 2018 n 27

Members of the Anna Maria Garden Club show spirit — and grow awareness for their group — in a parade on Anna Maria Island. The club, which meets monthly during season, will hold its annual plant sale 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 1, at Roser Memorial Community Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Islander File Photo: Karen-Riley Love

By Lisa Neff

Nursery times, plant sales

We navigated the rough road, wide enough for one car and maybe an alligator, into Myakka’s countryside, where wild roses grew 12-feet tall and wild sunflowers stretched even higher. The deeper off the main road we traveled, the wilder and taller the plants became. When we turned into Crowley Nursery and Gardens, we saw a place where superlatives aren’t exaggerations and exaggeration isn’t necesNeff sary. The nursery website promises “edibles, oddities and more!” and Crowley’s comes through on the promise. My wife Connie and I walked along winding paths and into tents to marvel at the trees, some holding lemons the size of grapefruits and grapefruits the size of pumpkins. I thought about a children’s TV series popular when I was a kid, “The Land of the Lost,” where the Marshall family hurtles over a waterfall into a lost prehistoric world. Crowley’s is a place for gardeners — or admirers of gardens — to get lost on a Sunday morning. I was reminded of the greenhouses Connie and I sailed through earlier this year on the Land Pavilion amusement ride at Epcot at Walt Disney World. But you can save yourself the price of an Epcot ticket and find amusement and adventure in local nurs-

eries and gardens — there’s no shortage in the region and many of them are locally owned and managed by folks who know what plants are suited to our soil and grow in our salt air. These folks know how to care for natives and exotics. We left Crowley’s with a hard-to-find black raspberry bush and a special organic elixir for successful plant mothering. That day we also claimed a small red hibiscus that’s already turning heads. Closer to the island, Cortez and west Bradenton boast commercial nurseries — Orban’s Nursery, 9601 Ninth Ave. NW, Bradenton, for example, will host its anticipated poinsettia sale 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 24. And Manatee Fruit Farms in Cortez is known for gladiolus. On the island, the best resource for garden knowhow is the Anna Maria Garden Club, which meets monthly during the winter-spring seasons at Roser Community Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. And the club’s annual sale — Dec. 1 at Roser — is the best island resource for plants that will grow on AMI. Each year at the sale, I pack my Ford Fiesta with plants — two tall plants behind the bucket seats, maybe

Sunset time

A couple walks the beach, silhouetted by the sunset Nov. 5 — an hour earlier the first week in November, with daylight saving time in Florida ending — at least this year — at 2 a.m. Sunday, Nov. 4. Putting an end to the biannual time change is pending federal approval. U.S. Sen. Marco Rubio, R-Fla., has two bills to certify the state’s decision to make daylight saving time permanent, but they are yet to be heard. Islander Photo: Kathy Prucnell

WE TWEET TOO

a showy hanging plant on the floor of the front passenger seat and the hatchback filled with 6-inch pots of flowers, herbs, ground cover, vegetables. My greatest success from the sale is a royal poinciana growing tall in a side yard on Gulf Drive in Anna Maria. It was knee-high when I purchased it about four years ago for maybe $4 and now it rises above the single-story duplex on the property. Some years, some plants don’t thrive. So when I return to the sale, I seek out a club member for advice. Many of them know what can be grown from cuttings and rooting powder, how to tell whether a plant has received too much or too little water, too much or too little sun and which insects will destroy or sustain plant growth. My first year at the sale, a club member wowed me with the tale of a snowbird who purchased a frangipani stick that she forgot and left in her van trunk through the winter. Forgotten, the frangipani went to Michigan for the summer, where it found a home, flowering in a box under a bed. At last year’s sale, a club member connected me with a campaign to grow milkweed for the betterment of butterflies, monarchs in particular. This year, who knows what seeds will be planted by a club member. But I’m ready to grow my garden and my knowledge.

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Adult soccer pushes to championships, youth soccer, too By Kevin P. Cassidy Islander Reporter After four weeks of action in the adult soccer league at the Center of Anna Maria Island, four teams are pushing for the league title and four teams are struggling to put together victories. Sato Real Estate and Eason Builders appear to be the class of the league. Sato sits in first place with a 3-0-1 record as Eason runs up on its heels at 3-1. Lancaster Design and Moss Builders aren’t far behind either, sporting matching 2-1-1 records, while Jiffy Cassidy Lube and AMI Locals are tied for fifth place with 1-1-2 records. Slim’s Place, 0-3-1, and Ross Built, 0-4, are in search of a first victory. AMI Locals took a positive step to right the ship with an 8-3 victory over Lancaster Design in the opening match Nov. 8. Jessica Williams scored three goals and Kevin Roman added two goals and an assist to lead the Locals, which also received a goal each from Tyler Robinson and Olaf Krause. Chris Culhane chipped in with an assist and Ben Sato made 11 saves in goal. Zackary Lieb scored two goals and Blair Schlossberg scored to lead Lancaster Design, which also received eight saves from John Haggerty in the loss. Sato held the top spot in the standings thanks to a 7-2 victory over Jiffy Lube in the second match of the night. Matthew Skaggs led the way with two goals and two assists, while Josh Sato scored two goals. Nate Welch, Mark Rudacille and Francisco Oliviera completed the scoring with a goal each and Scott Bear made 13 saves in goal. Ricky Anderson had a goal and an assist to pace Jiffy Lube, which also received a goal from Daniel Anderson and 11 saves from Michael Lewis and Steve Brad and Aidan Schutte, 9, of Kansas and Randy Righter of St. Augustine show off their catch of snapper and mackerel Oct. 25. They were guided by Capt. Warren Girle.

Anna Maria Island Tides

Date

Nov 14 Nov 15 Nov 16 Nov 17 Nov 18 Nov 19 Nov 20 Nov 21

2:24a 3:40a 5:24a 7:05a 8:23a 9:25a 10:19a 11:10a

HIGH

2.1 1.9 1.7 1.7 1.7 1.7 1.7 1.7

6:57p 7:30p 7:57p 8:21p 8:44p 9:06p 9:28p 9:53p

HIGH

1.6 10:46a 1.7 11:45a 1.8 12:12a 1.9 1:28a 2.0 2:22a 2.1 3:06a 2.2 3:47a 2.4 4:26a

LOW

0.2 0.3 1.3 1.1 0.8 0.5 0.3 0.0

10:23p — 12:41p 1:30p 2:13p 2:50p 3:22p 3:51p

1.5 — 0.4 0.5 0.6 0.7 0.9 1.0

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

Moon

Oelfke in the loss. Moss Builders received hat tricks from Adam Bujarski and Eduardo Vera to fuel its 7-3 victory over Slim’s Place. Ryan Moss added a goal and Jordan Demers came through with 11 saves in the victory. Diego Felipe’s two goals and a goal from Yorvi Moreira paced Slim’s Place in the loss. Eason Builders rolled to a 9-3 victory over Ross Built behind a hat trick from Sean Flynn and two goals each from Greg DeMeuse, Amy Ivin and Damir Glavan. Cliff Powell kept Ross Built at bay with 11 saves. Connor Bystrom scored two goals and Chris Circharo added one to lead Ross Built in the loss.

Construction taking on No. 3 seed Slim’s Place. The winner will battle Bins Be Clean for the title at 7 p.m. Key Royale golf news Another week of beautiful fall weather brought out the golfers at the Key Royale Club in Holmes Beach. The men played their regular, Monday morning modified-Stableford system match Nov. 5. Mike Pritchett earned clubhouse bragging rights after carding a score of plus-7, a point ahead of second-place finisher Bill Brodie. The women got out on the course Nov. 6 for a nine-hole individual-low-net match in four flights. Margrit Layh won Flight A with a 2-under-par 30, one stroke ahead of second-place finisher Marie Scholz. Pam Lowry and Marilyn Thorton finished in a tie for third at even-par 32. Carol Patterson fired a 1-under-par 31 to grab first place in Flight B by a stroke over Sharon Tarras. Deb Richardson and Tootie Wagner finished in a tie for third place with matching 2-over-par 34s. Barb Harold had the low-net round of the day with a 5-under-par 27 and first place in Flight C. Pam Alvord was alone in second with a 3-under-par 29, while Penny Williams finished in third with a 1-overpar 33. Terry Westby’s 2-under-par 30 gave her first place in Flight D. Sally York and Susan VanOrsdel tied for second at 2-over-par 34, while Ellen Boin and Kathy Porter tied for third at 5-over-par 37. The men were back on the course Nov. 8 for a nine-hole scramble that ended in a tie. The team of Bill Brodie, Tim Friesen, Wayne Patterson and Gary Razze combined on a 2-under-par 30 that was matched by the team of Herb Clauhs, Gerry Dahl and Jon Holcomb.

Youth soccer season heads to playoffs The regular season of the recreational youth soccer league at the center came to a dramatic close Nov. 6 as a couple of upsets sparked championship hopes among the second and third seeds in the two age divisions. Ugly Grouper opened the 8-10 division matches with a 1-0 upset of top-seeded Planet Stone. Planet Stone atoned for its loss with a 2-0 victory over Progressive Cabinetry in the second match. Progressive then defeated Ugly Grouper to spark playoff hopes among the team’s faithful fans. Championship night at 5:30 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 14, begins with No. 2 seed Ugly Grouper taking on No. 3 seed Progressive Cabinetry with the winner battling No. 1 seed Planet Stone at 6 p.m. for the 8-10 division title. The 11-13 division followed a similar script in the Nov. 6 action as Wash Family Construction upset previously unbeaten Bins Be Clean by a 4-3 score in the first match. Slim’s Place then battled Bins Be Clean to a 2-2 tie. The final match saw Wash edge Slim’s 4-3. Championship night in the 11-13 division kicks off at 6:30 p.m. Nov. 14 with No. 2 seed Wash Family Horseshoe news Three teams emerged from pool play and battled for the day’s supremacy during Nov. 7 horseshoe action at the Anna Maria City Hall horseshoe pits. Bob Rowley and Bob Lee drew the bye into the finals and watched as Tom Skoloda and Norm Langeland moved onto the finals with a tight 21-20 victory over Tom Farrington and Hank Huyghe. Rowley and Lee then rolled to an impressive 22-1 thrashing of Skoloda and Langeland to earn the day’s bragging rights. Eleven teams had aspirations of a trip to the winner’s circle or to the knockout stage, but Skoloda and Lee quashed those dreams by compiling the lone 3-0 pool-play record and emerging as the day’s outright champions. The win was the fourth consecutive title for Lee, who has a hot streak going. Play gets underway at 9 a.m. every Wednesday and Saturday at the Anna Maria city pits. Warmups begin at 8:45 a.m. followed by random team selection. Everyone is welcome and there is no charge to play.

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TideWatch

Patches of red tide persist

A bloom of the Florida red tide organism persisted the week ending Nov. 11. Bloom concentrations of the red tide organism, Karenia brevis, persist on Florida’s Southwest and Northwest coasts. Patchiness was observed in both areas. On the East Coast, bloom concentrations of K. brevis are no longer present. In Southwest Florida, high concentrations occurred from Pinellas to Lee counties. K. brevis concentrations generally decreased in many areas of Manatee, Sarasota, and Collier counties and increased in parts of Pinellas, Charlotte and Lee counties. Reports of fish kills were received for Pinellas, Manatee and Sarasota counties. Respiratory irritation was reported in Southwest Florida in Pinellas, Manatee and Sarasota counties. For more information, go to myfwc.com/ redtidestatus.

THE ISLANDER n Nov. 14, 2018 n 29

Gamble on fishing, Gulf pays off in spite of red tide By Capt. Danny Stasny Islander Reporter Although patches of red tide still exist in the Gulf of Mexico east of Anna Maria Island, fall fishing is on the upswing. While taking the gamble on fishing in the Gulf can be risky, those who are willing to try are being rewarded with some exceptional catches. Reports of blackfin tuna, amberjack, kingfish and bonito are encouraging. Mangrove snapper, grunts and groupers are being caught as well. Moving inshore, catch-andStasny release snook fishing is in full swing. As the water temps drop, the snook are on the flats to feed in preparation for winter. Free-lined shiners arenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t lasting more than a few seconds before they are quickly inhaled by hungry linesiders. Catch-andrelease redfish, as well as some decent-sized spotted seatrout, are making a good showing. On my excursions with Southernaire, Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m finding the catch-and-release action nothing short of exceptional. On some days, when the bite is really on fire, my sport-fishing clients are counting down from when their bait hits the water until they get a strike. One one-thousand, two one-thousand â&#x20AC;&#x201D; fish on! Yeah, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s that good. The snook are so voracious I almost feel bad putting a poor little shiner on a hook â&#x20AC;&#x201D; almost. While reeling in the snook, Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m also seeing redfish, mangrove snapper and spotted seatrout in the mix. My clients are astonished at the variety of species they can catch in one area â&#x20AC;&#x201D; not to mention adding in some jacks and ladyfish. Finally, mangrove snapper are still being found on wrecks and reefs. Depending on water clarity, Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m either free-lining baits to them or bottom fishing.

Taylor, left, Claire, Bryan and Greg Sears of Boston and Capt. Jason Stock show off their catch from a dayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fishing Nov. 7 in the Gulf. The Sears, who run a charter operation focusing on bluefin tuna in Boston, also hauled in amberjack, big sharks, kingfish and goliath grouper. Stock reports fishing is good once you get out far enough to clean water.

Capt. Jason Stock is running charters offshore looking to hook into some of the migratory species â&#x20AC;&#x201D; kingfish, amberjacks, bonito and blackfin tuna. All of these species are being found around offshore structure â&#x20AC;&#x201D; reefs and especially wrecks. Both live and artificial offerings are working. In tow with these fish are numerous sharks, which are readily taking freshly filleted pieces of bonito. Moving inshore, Stock is putting his anglers on plenty of catch-and-release snook with a few spotted seatrout catch-and-release redfish and in the mix. Capt. Rick Gross of Fishy Business Charters is hooking up with an abundance of catch-and-release snook, many 20-26 inches with a few slot fish for good measure, while working oyster bars and shallow grass flats. Fishing structure in Tampa Bay is resulting in mangrove snapper and quite a few flounder. For both, Gross is bottom fishing with live shiners as bait. Most of the snapper are 12-14 inches, while the flounder are impressively larger â&#x20AC;&#x201D; some up to 20 inches. Lastly, trout action remains steady for Gross on deeper grass flats where good tidal flow exists. Capt. Warren Girle is loading up on limits of mangrove snapper around reefs and wrecks in Tampa Bay. Two methods are working to catch these tasty fish. One is free-lining baits over the structure. This is working when the snapper are being leader-shy. The other method is bottom fishing with a knocker rig combined with a live shiner. Also, when bottom fishing, Girle is hooking into flounder and grouper. Moving to the shallows, Girle is bringing his share of catch-and-release snook to the boat. Redfish and trout are being caught while flats fishing, too. Capt. Aaron Lowman is working nearshore ledges Bryan and Claire Sears from Boston show off a blackfin tuna they caught Nov. 7 on a charter trip in with good results. Lowman warns there are still patches of red tide in the Gulf and fishing there can the Gulf of Mexico with Capt. Jason Stock. Southernaire Fishing Charters

Fishing Charters Capt. Warren Girle

be a gamble. On days when there is minimal red tide, Lowman is catching Key West grunts, limits of mangrove snapper and a few hogfish and gag grouper. Moving into Tampa Bay, Lowman is finding catchand-release snook, as well as some catch-and-release redfish, for his sport fishers. Action on spotted seatrout is heating up for Lowman with numerous bites occurring over deep grass during incoming tides. Capt. David White of Anna Maria Charters is targeting catch-and-release snook when he has anglers on the boat who are just out to bend a rod. Snook fishing is at its finest right now, with catches of 20-30 fish occurring in one spot. For those fishing for dinner, White is putting them on the mangrove snapper bite. Limits of these fish are being caught with ease. While targeting the snapper, White is also putting clients on flounder and Spanish mackerel. Send high-resolution photos and fishing reports to fish@islander.org. Taylor Sears of Boston shows off a blackfin tuna caught offshore of Anna Maria in the Gulf of Mexico with charter guide Capt. Jason Stock.

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30 n Nov. 14, 2018 n THE ISLANDER

For this island-reared restaurateur, it was always about the food

By Sandy Ambrogi Islander Reporter “When they read the menu in a restaurant and don’t know what to get and so, they come back again to get something else the next time, that’s the point.” Chef Jeannie Pierola has kept diners coming back for more than 30 years — from her first restaurant at her parent’s Catalina resort in Bradenton Beach, where she came of age, to her newest venture, Edison’s Swigamajig, a divebar and fish kitchen in Tampa. She’s now in the middle of putting the finishing touches on another restaurant, Counter Culture, which she hopes to open by year’s end. In 2012, Pierola opened Edison: food + drink lab after a series of successful pop-ups in the Tampa Bay area in 2010 and 2011. “The last pop-up was on Edison. I wasn’t looking for a restaurant, but here it is. It’s a neighborhood joint. It’s fun with no pretense, a gastropub,” Pierola told The Islander in an interview. Fun, with no pretense. That’s how Pierola describes her childhood on Anna Maria Island. The summer after fourth-grade, Pierola’s parents packed up the family — she has two siblings — and relocated from Brandon to Anna Maria Island. Gil and Katie Pierola purchased a seaside motel, then-Catalina with a home on the bay behind the motel, now Tortuga Beach Resort, and set about making the island their home. Jeannie Pierola worked at the motel office even before becoming a teenager, often closing in the evening. She also helped clean what is now the Beach House Restaurant. “It was always all about the food,” Pierola said of watching the old cook prepare and serve at the oyster house. “That was where I fell in love with food.” Busy with family, work and school, Pierola said she had little time for or interest in sports, but the beach and the water were another story. “Scuba diving, fishing, swimming, hanging at the beach. I was all about that,” Pierola said of her young years. Another fond memory? Riding her banana-seat bicycle to Fast Eddies in Anna Maria, where the motto was “warm beer and lousy food.”

Chef Jeannie Pierola is a four-time James Beard Foundation Award semifinalist and owner of Tampa restaurants, including Edison: food + drink lab and the new Edison’s Swigamajig. “I would go and stand in line at Galati’s Marina and wait for the fish. Every Sunday they had a fish fry. I would get bags and take it home for dinner,” Pierola remembered. In her mid-20s, Pierola got a restaurant of her own. Tia Lena’s opened in 1989 upstairs facing the Gulf of Mexico at the family resort and Pierola was at the helm. At age 30, Pierola left the island and went to work for Bern’s Steak House in south Tampa. “I learned so much. I started out at the bottom at

the soup station,” Pierola said. “But I was like a kid in a candy store.” After almost a decade at the legendary steakhouse and its offshoot, Sideberns, Pierola moved on, traveling to Cypress in the Mediterranean to open an “Americanstyle steakhouse.” She stayed 18 months. In 2010, Pierola returned to Tampa and dabbled with pop-ups, small eateries that “pop up” in neighborhoods, leading to her string of Tampa-based eateries. About her upbringing on the island, Pierola said her family was traditional and hard working. “My parents chose Anna Maria Island and they had fallen in love with it,” she said. “So they became very passionate about it.” “I remember typing letters to officials about the beach. They realized their life work was on a barrier island and it needed to be protected. It galvanized my mother to try to do that and enter politics,” Pierola said. Mother Katie fought high bridges to the island, was a leader in SAM — Save Anna Maria Inc. — and served as Bradenton Beach mayor 1989-92. Mayor Katie Pierola’s efforts to get beach nourishment underway in 1992 is credited with starting a renaissance in the city. “My mother and I only get along about politics,” Pierola joked. These days, the chef-entrepeneur is shuttling between her Tampa eateries. She is the first chef in the Tampa Bay area to be invited to cook at the James Beard House in New York City and is a four-time James Beard Foundation semifinalist. The foundation’s mission is to celebrate and honor chefs and leaders in America’s food culture. She also cooked for President George H.W. Bush and wife Barbara, former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and celebrity Oprah Winfrey. But Pierola never forgets her Anna Maria Island roots. “I still love to come to Duffy’s for a couple of Stellas and a cheeseburger,” Pierola admitted. She also is known to frequent the little bar at Beach Bistro. Jeannie Pierola stands beside her newest venture, Edison’s Swigamajig, dubbed a divebar and fish kitchen, at Sparkman Wharf, 615 Channelside Drive, Tampa. Her “modern, seafoodie dive” inside two repurposed shipping containers was inspired by Anna Maria Island’s long-gone Fast Eddies from Pierola’s childhood on the island. Islander Courtesy Photos

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THE ISLANDER n Nov. 14, 2018 n 31

isl

biz

BY SANDY AMBROGI

Here’s what’s shaking

Look who’s catering Vinny Esposito has taken over the catering operation for the Elks Lodge, 2511 75th St. W., Bradenton. Esposito says the Elks are keeping him busy. He is reorganizing the kitchen to better serve the Elk’s special event bookings — and he will do his own “off-site” catering from the kitchen there — but still has plans to move Vinny’s Italian Kitchen to a new location in Holmes Beach. The longtime Pine Avenue location closed earlier this fall. Esposito says he is in the final stages of signing a lease for another storefront on the island. In the meantime, catering for special events is available from Esposito by calling 941-773-6957. Wild about the new Harry’s The folks at Harry’s Grill, 9903 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria, did a little more than the usual preseason cleaning and sprucing up for their restaurant. Owners Mark and Jan LaBriola closed in September to renovate the bar and grill and are now back open and welcoming customers. The kitchen got a facelift and a new AC system to keep the customers and chefs cooler. They also plan to expand their adjacent dining deck to the back of the property. They serve sandwiches, burgers and fresh seafood and will be adding specials to the menu. Harry’s Grill is open 11:30 a.m.-9 p.m. MondayThursday and noon-10 p.m. Friday-Sunday For more information, call 941-567-5999 or visit at harrysgrillami.com.

BizCal

Island Players celebrates 70 years with ribbon-cutting

The Island Players theater group celebrates 70 years of performances Nov. 6 with a ribbon-cutting sponsored by the Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce. Shown onstage at the theater are John Campora, left, Island Players treasurer Connie Comboni, Wayne Gunter, IP corresponding secretary Cathy HanselEdgerton, IP president Sylvia Marnie, IP public relations chair Diane Phinney, board member Barbara Gusie, AMI chamber chair Bev Lesnick, IP vice president Peg Faarup and IP volunteer coordinator Susan Turner. Islander Photo: Courtesy Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce

Helping hands for area businesses

Chamber volunteer Bob Helgeson, left, helps Wade Scott of Out of the Blue Marketing with information as Vickie Bartz of Tidewell Hospice signs in at the Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce mixer Oct. 24 at Waller-Mixon Insurance in Holmes Beach. The next business card exchange will be at 5 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 28, at Two Scoops/ Two Sides of Nature, 101 S. Bay Blvd., Anna Maria. Islander Photo: Sandy Ambrogi

BY SANDY AMBROGI

Helping hands

AMI CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Wednesday, Nov. 14 7:45 a.m. — Early-riser breakfast, Trustco Bank, 5858 Cortez Road W., Bradenton. Information: 941-778-1541. Friday, Nov. 16 6 p.m. — Member gala, including dinner, dancing and awards, Seafood Shack Marina, Bar and Grill Neptune Room, 4110 127th St. W., Cortez. $40 per person, $425 per table of eight. Cocktail attire. RSVP required. Information: 941-778-1541. LBK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Wednesday, Nov. 7 5 p.m. — Chairman’s reception and annual membership appreciation, Bridge Tender Inn Dockside Bar & Grill, 135 Bridge St., Bradenton Beach. Complimentary hors d’oeuvre and admission for members. Cash bar available. RSVP requested. Information: 941387-9000. Satisfaction Guaranteed!

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Small Town Creamery makes a delivery Nov. 7 of shipping foam that protects the waffle cones before they arrive at the ice cream shop to Island Mail and More. Small Town Creamery and Island Mail are recycling the foam and helping reduce waste. “It’s a win win for everyone,” said Small Town Creamery co-owner of Lindy Gilbert, who made the delivery with Ava Gitt, 7, left, Emmerson Gitt, 11, and Gabriella Gilbert, 10, to Rebecca St. Jean of Island Mail and More. Islander Photo: Bonner Joy SWAT Thursday, Nov. 15 11:45 a.m. — Successful Women Aligning Together meeting and luncheon, Bridge Street Bistro, 111 Gulf Drive S., Bradenton Beach. RSVP requested. Information: 410-382-2257.

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LADIES 26-INCH Husky six-speed bike. Chrome fenders, mirror and cover. Sharp. $85. 941-727-5050. MR COFFEE 45-cup urn coffee maker. Used twice, excellent condition, $25. 941-7790564. ANTIQUE PARTNER DESK: All wood, $1,000. See at The Islander office, 3218 E. Bay Drive, Holmes Beach. 941-778-7978. FOUR OAK OFFICE chairs: Antiques, perfect for eclectic dining set. The Islander newspaper, 3218 E. Bay Drive, Holmes Beach. 941-778-7978. FREEBIE ITEMS FOR SALE Individuals may place one free ad with up to three items, each priced $100 or less, 15 words or less. FREE, one week, must be submitted online. Email classifieds@islander. org, fax toll-free 1-866-362-9821. (limited time offer)

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