The Islander Newspaper E-Edition: Wednesday, March 23, 2022 by The Anna Maria Islander Newspaper

MARCH 23, 2022 FRee

VOLUME 30, NO. 22

the Best news on anna Maria island Since 1992

islander.org

condemned:

Astheworldterns. 6 county seeks proposals for water taxi. 3

Q&A 032322.

Holmes Beach steps in, evacuates ‘unsafe’ rental units

hB, treehouse owners riding out lawsuits. 4 aM ready to bid Pine ave. redo. 3

By ryan Paice islander reporter

Meetings. 4 Opinions. 6

10-20 YeArs Ago

Looking back. 7

cortez Bridge-dot fight nears conclusion. 8

Happenings community events. 10-11

Save the date. 10-11 Springfest blooms. 12

catching up. 13

Gathering. 14 GoodDeeds. 15 garden club arrangements. 15

Streetlife 16

Cops & Courts 16-17

captured, jailed for a cause

a crew from the anna Maria island Privateers capture, coral and chain Mayor dan Murphy to a chair March 15 at the anna Maria island historical Society’s old jail as he’s held ransom for coins, jewels and booty for the historical society. the “capture” was a highlight of heritage day in anna Maria. More, page 12. islander Photo: Privateer Madi “Mad dog” Mabry

new rules of the road?

HB explores golf cart registration, eventual prohibition By ryan Paice islander reporter

Somewhere down the road in Holmes Beach there might not be golf carts. City commissioners voted 3-2 March 8 to move forward with a draft ordinance that would regulate the vehicles for residentialonly use and set a five-year sunset period. Spring for it. 19 Commission Chair Carol Soustek and 4 sports crown champs. Commissioner Terry Schaefer voted against 20 the motion, instead supporting a 10-year sunset. The ordinance would not include regulations for low-speed vehicles, which differ Spring break on the water. from golf carts in a few ways. 21 Golf carts typically only go up to 20 mph Isl Biz: 22 and, while they can be powered by electric fans, rags and 4 walls. motors or internal combustion engines, they are not classified as motor vehicles under cLASSIFIEDS. 24-25 federal law. MarketWatch. 26 Thus, golf cart operators are not required to have driver’s licenses and are allowed to puzzle. 27 drive the vehicles on designated public road-

BB fine-tunes shoreline project. 18

NYT

Holmes Beach deemed a rental property near the beach unfit for occupancy. Holmes Beach Police Chief Bill Tokajer, city staff and West Manatee Fire Rescue District fire Marshal Rodney Kwiatkowsi March 18 condemned a multifamily building at 2809 Ave. E due to structural hazards. Two of three units were occupied. The property is owned by developer Shawn Kaleta and Beach to Bay Investments, of which Kaleta is title president, according to sunbiz.org. JT Thomas, the city’s code compliance supervisor, told The Islander March 18 that the city began investigating a complaint made on the property. Thomas said staff contacted tenants at the property and immediately noticed issues: dilapidated exterior stairs front and back, electrical issues and missing wall panels. Building official Neil Schwartz, Kwiatkowski and Tokajer inspected the property and deemed it a hazard to public safety. Tokajer told The Islander March 18 the decision was made due to the damage found, including a structural beam that is “rotted through and falling down,” which posed a risk to the health of its inhabitants — one in

turn to condemned, Page 3

Anna Maria retracts exclusive use of new public records portal

Anna Maria put a plan in motion two weeks ago to capture public record requests. On March 3, the city announced it would only accept public record requests through an online portal beginning March 7. But city clerk LeAnne Addy, the city’s custodian of public records, retracted the decision, telling The Islander March 21 that other requests also will be accepted. Previously, record requests were submitted in person, by phone or via email to the clerk’s office. The portal, annamariafl.justfoia.com/puban LSV carries people March 9 on Marina licportal/, standardizes record requests with drive in holmes Beach. islander Photo: a form and allows creation of an account to ryan Paice track requests, according to the city. A link to JustFOIA also is available on ways by the age of 14. the city’s website, cityofannamaria.com. LSVs, on the other hand, must weigh The new system has come under some less than 3,000 pounds, have a top speed of review, based on questions from The Islander turn to Rules, Page 2

turn to RecoRds, Page 3

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Rules continued from page 1

more than 20 mph and are recognized as motor vehicles under federal law, so operators must be licensed. When registered with the state, LSVs are allowed on roadways with speed limits of 35 mph or less, under state code chapter 316. The use of golf carts on roadways is prohibited by state law unless a city allows for their operation. Holmes Beach city code allows people to operate golf carts on any street with a speed limit of 25 mph or lower but requires riders wear seat belts. The vehicles are not permitted on Manatee Avenue or East Bay Drive, as well as portions of Gulf and Marina drives. The city has explored several options to improve traffic and pedestrian safety in recent months, leading to the commission’s adoption in February of a resolution establishing a citywide 25-mph speed limit. City officials have called the resolution a “first step” in improving roadway safety while discussing regulations for both LSVs and golf carts. However, city attorney Erica Augello said that due to state and federal preemptions on LSV regulations, the commission must separately regulate the vehicle types. She presented a draft ordinance with her recommendations, such as requiring golf cart owners to register their vehicles with the city within three months of the ordinance’s adoption, be a homesteaded resident and to establish a 10-year sunset period on the permits. The ordinance eventually would eliminate all golf carts from operating on city streets. Augello said her initial recommendation was to ban all golf carts from city streets to prevent legal confusion. The draft ordinance also would require golf carts to have certain safety features, such as headlights and brake lights, as well as sideview and rearview mirrors. Several commissioners spoke in support of banning the vehicles outright, including Kim Rash, who said many golf carts were uninsured and should not be

‘ ’

‘ The sooner we sunset it, the better. — HB Commissioner Jayne Christenson on permitting golf carts allowed on roadways. Police Chief Bill Tokajer said the draft ordinance would require golf cart owners to sign affidavits stating they will maintain insurance for the vehicles during the proposed registration process. Commissioner Jayne Christenson said allowing 14-year-olds to drive on city streets was a “setup for disaster” and supported sunsetting the permitted use of golf carts. She proposed reducing the sunset period to five years. “The sooner we sunset it, the better,” Christenson said. Commissioner Terry Schaefer said he supported a sunset period and registration process, but opposed

residents registering their golf carts. Tokajer said the registration program would require the city to purchase stickers for the vehicles, which would not be a significant cost. In other matters… City commissioners also: • Voted to send an ordinance updating the city’s comprehensive plan to a second, final reading; • Unanimously voted to authorize Mayor Judy Titsworth to hire Sarasota-based Progressive Water Resources for $80,000 to assist the city with resiliency planning; • Unanimously voted to allow commissioners to participate in meetings with the Coalition of Barrier Island Elected Officials. The commission will meet next at 5 p.m. Tuesday, March 22, at city hall, 5801 Marina Drive. The meeting will be open to the public. Directions to attend via Zoom can be found at holmesbeachfl.org.

Celebrating 101st birthday

Grace Wadford, center wearing a birthday sash, marks her 101st birthday with neighbors in Holmes Beach in preparation of the March 21 event. Islander Courtesy Photo

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March 23, 2022 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 3 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

County seeks proposals for water taxi service to AMI By Lisa Neff Islander Editor

Who will float the county’s boat? Manatee County earlier this month issued an invite to negotiate for water taxi services, advancing the longdiscussed push for alternative transportation between Anna Maria Island and Bradenton. The invitation to negotiate went out March 1 from the county procurement division, stating proposals are due by 3 p.m. Wednesday, March 30, at the county administration building, 1112 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton. According to the ITN document, the county will receive “proposals from individuals, corporations, partnerships and other legal entities authorized to do business in the state of Florida … to provide water taxi services.” Specifically, the county’s stated operational goals Records continued from page 1

to the Florida Press Association and the Florida First Amendment Foundation. Attorneys with the groups agreed the agency can use a form but cannot require the use of a form. Virginia Hamrick of FAF, noted the relevant content from the 2022 Sunshine Law manual: Chapter 119, F.S., does not authorize an agency to require requests for records be in writing. Per Dade Aviation Consultants v. Knight Ridder Inc., (Fla. 3d DCA 2001) “There is no requirement in the Public Records Act that requests for records must be in writing.” As noted in attorney general opinion 80-57, a custodian must honor a request for copies of records which is sufficient to identify the records desired, whether the request is in writing, over the telephone, or in person, provided that any required fee is paid. “In sum, the city could not properly condition disclosure of the public records to the then-anonymous requester on filling out the city’s form ....” — Staff report

for any service provider include: • Operate a service that includes one route from downtown Bradenton to stops on the island, such as the City Pier in Anna Maria and the Kingfish Boat Ramp in Holmes Beach, and a hop-on/hop-off service to provide connections in Bradenton Beach at the Historic Bridge Street Pier and at the Coquina North Boat Ramp; • Provide a service that is safe, pleasant, ADAaccessible and an affordable alternative for tourists, employees and residents; • Contribute to easing parking and traffic congestion on the island and in surrounding areas; • Maintain positive relationships with public and private property owners, local governments, chambers of commerce and businesses to increase economic development opportunities and encourage water taxi use;

• Provide U.S. Coast Guard-certified vessels that are clean, safe, accessible and enjoyable; • Work with county, municipal, marina and other staff in determining and securing use of required infrastructure and locations for docking facilities; • Set service for the high tourist season based on market conditions and run a service that works with Manatee County Area Transit’s bus operations. A deadline for interested negotiators to submit questions passed March 17. A technical evaluation meeting currently is set for 1 p.m. Wednesday, April 13. Still, according to documents from the procurement office, the county could take as long as three months to review the proposals. An evaluation committee will score proposals, looking at the proposer’s experience, up to 15 points; capability and skill, 25 points; approach to services, 20 points; fee proposal, 25 points; and innovative approaches and alternatives, 15 points. The Manatee County Tourist Development Council Did you know? Sunshine Week, launched in 2005 by the American and Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau Society of News Editors, is celebrated in March to pro- has prioritized a water taxi service for 2022. mote open government. The nationwide observance — held March 13-19 this year — promotes access to public information and what it means for people and By Lisa Neff their community: “It’s your right to know.”

Q&A 032322

The Islander poll

This week’s question On April Fools’ Day, I … the lower unit and four upstairs, including children. A. Prank friends or family. “It’s definitely an unsafe structure,” Tokajer said. B. Fool my coworkers. The property — three annual rental units — was C. Usually get fooled. tagged as unfit for human habitation. D. Enjoy a prank at the expense of others. “No one can be in there until we meet with the owners, building official, fire marshal and chief of Last week’s question I know spring has arrived when… police,” Thomas said. “The case is now being handled 16%. Publix runs out of beer and toilet paper. by law enforcement.” 65%. I can’t get a table at a restaurant. Thomas also issued a notice March 18 to Kaleta on 12%. Birds are nesting. four violations of city code at the property and asked 7%. Family arrives for vacation. him to contact the city within 10 days to create a plan To answer the poll, go online to islander.org. to mitigate the issue.

Condemned continued from page

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City, treehouse owners determined to ride out ﬁnal 3 lawsuits By ryan Paice islander reporter

It’s anyone’s guess when the last of three lawsuits over a two-story treehouse on the beachfront in Holmes Beach will end. Holmes Beach city attorney Erica Augello and Lynn Tran-Hazen, co-owner of 103 29th St., where the treehouse was built, told The Islander March 17 they are determined to ride out the litigation. The active cases in the 12th Judicial Circuit Court as of March 18 include: • Treehouse owners v. city of Holmes Beach, asking the court for declaratory and injunctive relief, arguing city code is unconstitutional and the treehouse is an accessory structure allowed within 50 feet of the state erosion control line; • Holmes Beach v. treehouse owners, asking the court to enforce the code board’s order to remove the treehouse and pay the assessed fines; • Treehouse owners v. the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, asking the court to temporarily prevent the treehouse’s removal and stop the assessment of “excessive” daily fines. In the first case, owners v. the city, a Feb. 15 order snapped a streak of more than a year and a half of inactivity. The order by Judge Edward Nicholas demanded the case’s dismissal within 60 days unless either party provides “good cause” for continuing the litigation. The owners filed a showing of good cause Feb. 16, stating the case’s resolution may be required to determine the outcome of two other cases. Nicholas filed an order Feb. 17 continuing the case after finding the property owners’ displayed cause. The order requires the property owners file a memorandum in support of their position by June 30 and for the city to respond by July 29. It also requires the treehouse owners reply to the city by Aug. 31 and cancels a May 10 hearing. In the second case, city v. the Hazens, Nicholas filed a Dec. 20, 2021, order to dismiss within 60

richard hazen and Lynn tran-hazen’s treehouse at 103 29th St., holmes Beach, where they operate angelinos Sea Lodge, remains standing March 17 despite more than 10 years of litigation over its removal. islander Photo: ryan Paice

days because there had been no action since Aug. 11, 2020. The city responded by filing a Feb. 1 notice that it was ready for a “final evidentiary hearing” and a Feb. 9 motion for temporary injunction and showing of good cause that states, “The saga of the treehouse must end.” The Feb. 9 motion asks the court to grant an injunction against the Hazens to compel them to remove the structure within 60 days, or allow the city to “enter upon the respondents’ property to remove the disputed

structure.” The property owners filed an objection Feb. 16 to the city’s notice the action was ready to go to trial. Nicholas filed an order Feb. 15 to keep the case active in response to the city’s showing of good cause and canceled a March 22 hearing. The third case, treehouse owners v. FDEP, has seen recent action. The owners filed their fourth amended complaint Sept. 10, 2021, with two counts against the DEP, including: • A request the court declare the DEP violated the Hazens’ equal protection rights, enjoin the department from destroying the treehouse, issue permits to prevent further violations, and order reimbursement for costs; • Request the court declare the DEP violated their due process rights, enjoin department efforts to remove the treehouse, compensate them for taking private property and order reimbursement of costs. The DEP filed a motion Sept. 14, 2021, to dismiss the property owners’ complaint which, after a Jan. 27 hearing, Judge Charles Sniffen partially granted and dismissed. Sniffen’s Feb. 10 order denied the DEP’s request to dismiss the first count but granted its motion to dismiss the second count with prejudice — meaning it can’t be argued again. There were no scheduled events for the three cases as of March 19, according to the court docket. Augello told The Islander March 17 that there have been no recent settlement talks with the Hazens. “Any attempts from the city to broker some sort of a settlement have basically stalled due to lack of response from the property owners or their representatives,” Augello said. “At this time, the city is just going to try to get through its remaining two lawsuits.” “The city is confident that it will prevail,” she added. From the other side of the battle, Tran-Hazen wrote in a March 17 email to The Islander, “I can only pray for a good ending.”

Anna Maria sets bid terms for Pine Avenue redo By ryan Paice islander reporter

Anna Maria is ready to advertise for bids on its plans to improve Pine Avenue. City commissioners voted March 17 to approve motions establishing terms for a request for proposal to improve sidewalks, crosswalks and lighting and to issue an RFP. Commissioners began “reimagining” Pine last summer and approved up to $125,000 for an engineer to design potential improvements, including: • Pervious paver meandering sidewalks; • Additional and enhanced crosswalks; • Additional and enhanced street lighting; • Conversion of the trolley turnaround at the east end of Pine to allow delivery trucks; • Bicycle paths on both sides of Pine. The city contracted St. Petersburg-based George F. Young last year to engineer the plans. The city is handling the improvements in phases: the first involves sidewalks, crosswalks and lighting; the second will involve expanding the trolley turnaround and adding bike lanes. Mayor Dan Murphy said the RFP would be issued as soon as possible and include a 30-day bid period. The total improvements are projected to cost about $1.363 million. The city budgeted $73,000 and is requesting $1,288,440 in state appropriations.

Meetings

Sidewalks Commissioners voted 4-1 to include in the RFP 5-foot-wide meandering sidewalks with options for pervious materials — brick and rubber-crumb pavers. Commissioner Deanie Sebring voted “no,” stating a preference for 6-foot-wide sidewalks where possible. George F. Young traffic engineer Gerry Traverso presented plans that included 6-foot-wide sidewalks along several stretches, as requested by commissioners at a previous meeting. Pine’s current sidewalks are 5 feet wide but several commissioners supported expanding the width. However, as Commissioner Mark Short pointed out, expanding sidewalk width would require the elimination of about 50 parallel parking spaces. Commissioner Robert Kingan said the discovery “changed (his) tune” on 6-foot-wide sidewalks since the elimination of parallel parking would leave Pine’s commercial tenants “beside themselves.” Sebring supported eliminating parallel parking, instead promoting wider sidewalks and bike lanes to get people off the road. “I think it’s very dangerous to have parallel parking on that road,” she said. Short moved to include 5-foot-wide sidewalks, with two options for material, in the RFP so that paral-

compiled by Lisa neff, calendar@islander.org

Anna Maria City March 24, 6 p.m., commission. Anna Maria City Hall, 10005 Gulf Drive, 941708-6130, cityofannamaria.com. Bradenton Beach April 6, 9:30 a.m., CRA. Bradenton Beach City Hall, 107 Gulf Drive N., 941-778-1005, cityofbradentonbeach.com.

Holmes Beach March 23, 9 a.m., clean water. March 30, 10 a.m., parks and beautification. April 6, 5 p.m., planning. Holmes Beach City Hall, 5801 Marina Drive, 941-708-5800, holmesbeachfl.org. Send meeting notices to news@islander.org.

lel parking could remain on the table moving forward. Commissioner Jonathan Crane seconded the motion,. Crosswalks Commissioners unanimously voted to approve plans to enhance and add crosswalks to Pine Avenue. Plans include the addition of raised and lighted crosswalks at city hall, 10005 Gulf Drive, and Roser Memorial Community Church, 512 Pine Ave., as well as at the intersection of Pine and Los Cedros Drive. The crosswalks will be raised by 3 inches and include in-road blinking lights facing drivers in both lanes to increase visibility. Plans also involve restriping crosswalks across all corners at four-way intersections. Crane supported the plans but questioned their “ultimate utility” since, in his experience, it was rare to see a pedestrian use them to cross the street. He indicated that most people cross at random. Kingan moved to include the crosswalk improvements in the RFP. Sebring seconded the motion, which passed. Lighting Commissioners also unanimously voted to include in the RFP the installation of about 27 solar-powered light posts. The new posts would replace those on Pine, which are owned by Florida Power & Light. By taking over lighting for the roadway, the city can choose the design and placement. Traverso’s plans include installing light posts at every intersection to better light pedestrian crossings, as well as every 100 feet to light the roadway and sidewalks. He said the plans do not include lighting along the meandering sidewalks because it would involve private property. Short moved to include the installation of 27 solarpowered light poles in the RFP. Crane seconded the motion, which passed.

March 16, 2022 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 5 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

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Opinion

Our

Here we go again

We’re on the cusp of spring — with summer-like temperatures injecting high 80s into the afternoons — and things are heating up all over. Maybe it’s that feeling of “normalcy” coming on but are people feeling more restless now that the pandemic has relaxed its hold? They seem to be rushing back into the mix of events and exerting muscle on the field and around the dinner table. Conversations are sometimes heated, pushing points of view, lamenting losses or heralding normal “achievements.” Maybe we’re just proud to be “back” to the surface after a long, long dive into the hush of “home alone.” There’s no shortage of opinions or beefs. Whether it’s golf carts and LSVs, parades, flea markets, craft shows, a condemned apartment complex owned by the lightning rod of vacation rentals, improvements for Pine Avenue, a Mote outreach center (aka tourist attraction) vs. a public restaurant, the sound of music or the joyous voices of children in a swimming pool, parking, parking, parking or traffic, traffic, traffic … or our new beef this week, the limit put on access to public records in Anna Maria. Since it’s Sunshine Week — a celebration by the nationwide media to promote open government March 13-19 — we have to point out the steps taken by the city of Anna Maria to limit public information. The city announced it would employ a portal to funnel public records requests to the city clerk — the official custodian of records — and, in my humble opinion, it violates the state’s Sunshine Law. Foregoing any avalanche of public record requests from the public at large, it puts undo restrictions on the media. And Anna Maria does not stand alone. The Manatee County Sheriff’s Office employs a similar portal for crime and incident reports. MCSO files are no longer accessible online without a portal request and media inquiries are almost always referred to the portal. It limits our access and your right to know. Also, IMHO, the mayor has long shown frustration for the Sunshine Law in general and media requests for information and documents in particular. He has carved a niche for himself in making it more difficult for The Islander to resource stories and he seems to take pride in keeping his moves close to the vest. He wears secrecy like a badge of honor. This week, they retracted, and say they will allow in-person record requests, but where is this taking us? For us, and for the public, for such a small, mostly friendly little city, it’s not pretty. After all, it’s your right to know. — Bonner Joy, news@islander.org

MARCH 23, 2022 • Vol. 30, No. 22 Publisher, Co-editor Bonner Joy, news@islander.org ▼ Editorial editor Lisa neff, lisa@islander.org robert anderson, robert@islander.org Joe Bird, editorial cartoonist Kevin cassidy, kevin@islander.org Jack elka, jack@jackelka.com Kane Kaiman, kane@islander.org Brook Morrison, brook@islander.org ryan Paice, ryan@islander.org ▼ Contributors Karen riley-Love Samara Paice capt. danny Stasny, fish@islander.org nicole Quigley ▼ Advertising Director toni Lyon, toni@islander.org ▼ Webmaster Wayne ansell ▼ Office Manager, Lisa Williams info@, accounting@, classifieds@, subscriptions@islander.org ▼ Distribution urbane Bouchet ross roberts Judy Loden Wasco (All others: news@islander.org) ▼

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Your

Opinion

Boundaries on service?

I am a former Bradenton Beach shuttle driver and am responding to the March 9 article regarding drivers being out-of-bounds. It’s very hard to tell a family with small children, beach chairs and coolers that you cannot take them one block past Cortez. What about a handicapped person who is having dinner at Wicked Cantina but has to park at the police station because that’s the only parking available? Do you tell them no? Or the intoxicated person who can barely walk and needs to get home? Aren’t we here to make life easier and safer for the community to find parking and navigate the area? Come on Bradenton Beach CRA, your policy is shortsighted. Maybe you should drive a cart for a night and see what it’s like. Get people to where they need to go, so they can have fun and spend money. Julie Wagner, Bradenton

County versus island

Holmes Beach Mayor Judy Titsworth and Police Chief Bill Tokajer appear to be the only rational voices in the latest county-versus-island parking debate. County Commissioners Kevin Van Ostenbridge and Carol Whitmore chastise the mayor for not having a positive attitude. Why can’t we have diagonal parking on Manatee Avenue? Because it’s a state road. Why not a multifloor garage? Because the basic tenet in the city charter is a height restriction. Whitmore should know as a past mayor. She and Van Ostenbridge had their seats purchased for them by developers who are selling homes out east by promising lovely beach visits — and pressing for better beach access because they lied to their buyers. Parking is just a diversion. There are too many people and cars for the roads that are supposed to bring the developers’ bamboozled buyers to the island, aside from any consideration of where they park when they get here. Accessible parking You can’t get here from there. Parking in Holmes Beach is in the news. Whitmore and Van Ostenbridge should experience Something not discussed thus far is the availability a county bus ride on a county road to the island. of handicapped parking near the beaches. But bring something to read. Something like the Non-handicapped persons can carry their stuff or Holmes Beach charter. roll carts and wagons to the beach from their homes Sean Murphy, Holmes Beach or rental locations. But for those of us who are handicapped, nearby Have your say parking is essential for beach access. The Islander accepts letters up to 250 words and If Holmes Beach can establish zones for permit parking, perhaps it could designate those few parking reserves the right to edit. Letters must include name, address and a contact spots a short walk to the beach for handicapped parkphone number (for verification). ing. Anonymous letters will not be printed. Michael Tyler, Holmes Beach and Rochester, MinPlease, email news@islander.org. nesota

March 23, 2022 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 7 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Katie Pierola, bridging the past, present, future There are at least three perfect locations on AMI for Katie Pierola to take a selfie. The former Bradenton Beach mayor might take a selfie at Katie Pierola Sunset Park, 220 Gulf Drive N. She might smile for a selfie at Bradenton Beach City Hall, 107 Gulf Drive. N., in the Katie Pierola Commission Chambers. Or she might take a selfie at the Cortez Bridge. No, the bridge doesn’t bear her name, but Pierola has fought for years to protect the drawbridge that’s connected Bradenton Beach to the mainland at Cortez since 1957. For Women’s History Month, The Islander is recognizing women who contributed to AMI history, left legacies of service and helped build community. Pierola, who now lives on the mainland, served six years as Bradenton Beach mayor, leading the city through a renaissance of sorts, seeking grants, pushing for beach renourishment, forging improvements. She fought for the first beach renourishment program on AMI in the 1990s and led a round of battles against megabridges. As a pioneer of the Save Anna Maria Island movement against overdevelopment and high bridges, she compiled detailed reports and studies on bridge proposals, including the lawsuit that halted the Anna Maria Island Bridge, into 12 three-ring binders and three scrapbooks of news articles. In an interview with the Tampa Times in 1994, Pierola, still mayor, said, “Out here, we use bridges like we use streets, crossing them two or three times a day. We get squalls here out of the blue and, when you get 40- to 50-mile-an-hour winds, you can’t cross a high bridge.” For 1995, The Islander newspaper named Pierola its Islander of the Year, making her the third recipient of the annual award. Long after she left the mayor’s office — and the island — Pierola continued working to protect the

Katie Pierola, photographed in 2019, has long fought to keep the state dot from building a megabridge to anna Maria island. islander file Photo

island and the surrounding waters and challenging bigger-not-better proposals, including the mixed-use, master-planned Aqua by the Bay development on Sarasota Bay. “This will be on your conscience if you let this project go. This is going to be your legacy. Don’t approve it,” Pierola, who knows something about building a positive legacy, warned Manatee County commissioners in 2017. The county did allow the project, and building began in 2020.

We’d love to mail you the news!

We mail The Islander weekly for a nominal $54 per year. We also offer online e-edition subscriptions — a page-by-page view of the weekly news for only $36 per year, but you must sign up online. It’s the best way to stay in touch with what’s happening on Anna Maria Island. We bring you all the news about three city governments, community happenings, people features and special events … even real estate transactions … everything you need if your “heart is on Anna Maria Island.” If you don’t live here year-round, use this form to subscribe by (snail) mail for yourself or someone else. (Sorry, we do not suspend mail subscriptions — you get The Islander free while you’re here!)

Look online for the islander at the uoff florida newspaper collection at ufdc. ufl.edu.

10&20 years ago

From the March 20, 2002, issue

• Florida Department of Transportation officials admitted that rehabilitation of the 45-year-old Anna Maria Island Bridge that connects Perico Island to Anna Maria Island was an option in an engineer’s report of the bridge’s condition. • After nearly six years of planning, Manatee County Area Transit introduced a fare-free Island trolley for Anna Maria Island that was expected to relieve traffic congestion. A federal grant would pay for five trolleys, including labor and maintenance through 2003. • Anna Maria commissioners gave a chilly reception to a presentation by Hover USA of Pinellas County to operate a hovercraft tour from Egmont Key and Fort DeSoto Park daily to Anna Maria. Company president Bob Wagner said the craft would use a 200-foot strip of beach at Bayfront Park to conduct landings.

From the March 21, 2012, issue

• “March Madness grips the island,” read a page one headline — referring to the crush of crowds at spring break and not the NCAA basketball tournaments. • The Florida Department of Environmental Protection issued warning letters to two property owners on 28th Street in Holmes Beach for trimming mangroves without permits. • The city of Bradenton Beach decided to remove seven tiki huts at Katie Pierola Park, 2200 Gulf Drive N., due to safety concerns. • Anna Maria city commissioners voted 3-2 to lift an administrative moratorium in place since Feb. 23, 2012. The moratorium halted the processing of building permits. — Lisa neff

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Page 8 THE ISLANDER | islander.org March 23, 2022 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Cortez Bridge ﬁghters near conclusion, share motivation By Kane Kaiman islander reporter

There are pockets of resistance in Cortez. On July 22, 2021, the Florida Institute for Saltwater Heritage — a nonprofit dedicated to preserving Cortez’s commercial fishing legacy — created the “Stop the Mega Bridge from Devastating Cortez” Gofundme page, a fundraiser for legal fees incurred by four complainants challenging in federal court the Florida Department of Transportation’s decision to replace the 17-foot-clearance Cortez drawbridge with a 65-foot-clearance fixed-span bridge. The bridge is set for replacement in 2026-27. As of March 17, 130 people and organizations had donated to the initiative, raising $13,575 of FISH’s $25,000 goal. According to Matthew Farmer, an attorney for the anti-megabridge coalition, there is no deadline for a ruling in the case. However, neither side has made a filing since March 3. If both parties have concluded their written arguments, U.S. Magistrate Judge Anthony E. Porcelli will begin crafting a decision. If Porcelli rules in favor of the complainants — former County Commissioner Joe McClash, former County Mcclash Commissioner and Cortez resident Jane von Hahmann, Cortez resident Linda Molto and Joe Kane — the DOT will be forced to conduct environmental impact studies on the high bridge and any other replacement von hahmann alternatives, analyses the complainants maintain the department should have carried out in accordance with the National Environmental Protection Act during its replacement selection process. In 2019, the DOT concluded a study of bridge replacement alterKane natives and selected the high bridge without conducting a more extensive analysis of the alternative’s environmental impacts by utilizing a categorical exclusion under NEPA. Top Gofundme donor Clint Burgess, a six-year Bradenton resident Molto who purchased a home in Cortez more than a year ago, said March 16 he donated $1,000 in September 2020 to help the anti-megabridge coalition achieve its goal of influencing the DOT to build a midlevel drawbridge. Burgess, who maintains the high bridge would change the character of Cortez, said the larger structure would provide no value to the area. “It’s basically an aerial parking lot. Because you’re still not changing the infrastructure on the beaches. There’s not enough parking as it is now, so where are all these people going to go?” Burgess said.

a guided tour boat heads southeast March 18 near the cortez Bridge. the replacement of the 17-footclearance bridge with a megabridge is the subject of a legal battle being led by four individuals with ties to the village of cortez against the florida department of transportation. islander Photo: Kane Kaiman

However, while he hopes Porcelli will force the DOT to do its due diligence, he still sees a high bridge in Cortez’s future regardless of the lawsuit’s outcome. “I don’t think there’s any stopping it at this point,” Burgess said. “I would like for it to go back to review, but I don’t think there’s any stopping the large bridge, so we might as well get it under construction.” Throughout the suit, DOT attorney George Reynolds has argued the complainants do not have standing because they seek a substantive remedy — a ruling that would force the DOT to build their preferred alternative, a mid-level drawbridge — when only a procedural remedy — a ruling that would compel the DOT to conduct environmental impact studies on the high bridge — is attainable under NEPA. The department maintains studies are likely to demonstrate the high bridge has no significant environmental impacts, meaning a ruling in favor of the complainants might only delay construction of the megabridge and, therefore, isn’t likely to prevent the injuries the complainants seek to avoid. “They’re almost telling the judge, ‘You can send it back to us, but we’re just going to do the same thing,’ and that would be a knowing violation of NEPA,” Ralf Brookes, another attorney for the complainants, said March 16. Brookes said his clients do, in fact, seek a procedural remedy and the DOT is mischaracterizing the argument. “Sometimes what you see, when the agency has a weak case, they’ll characterize your case as something else to try to make their case stronger,” Brookes said. “But I think we have a very strong case that they should have done the environmental analyses. And when I say environment, that also means the human environment, which would include the historical, commercial fishing village of Cortez.” Wayne and Fran Derr, 38-year Holmes Beach residents, said March 15 they were compelled to donate

$500 to FISH’s Gofundme in September 2020 to prevent the high bridge from impacting the Cortez businesses they have frequented for decades. “The mid-rise bridge, although it’s more expensive than the high-rise, makes more sense as far as the merchants in Cortez go, because it’s probably going to have less impact on their traffic and people’s ability to get to their business,” Wayne Derr said. While the mid-level bridge would not require retaining walls, the megabridge would feature inland walls that peak at 20 feet near Cortez businesses on the Intracoastal Waterway — including Tide Tables Restaurant, Annie’s Bait Shop and the Seafood Shack — and extend eastward into the community 700 feet along Cortez Road. If the megabridge is built, motorists seeking to access the businesses will need to travel along a road stemming north off Cortez Road near 125th Street West that loops back beneath the bridge along 127th Street West. The high walls also will impact Cortez Park, a mobile home community adjacent to the Intracoastal Waterway on Cortez Road’s southern border, where Tide Tables Restaurant sits. The barriers will block two access points to the park along Cortez Road — Avenue A and Central Avenue — and likely will deprive the community of RV parking spaces it leases along the thoroughfare. The community donated $1,000 to FISH’s Gofundme in August 2021 and several residents have made individual contributions. Julie and Jim Smoragiewicz, South Dakota residents who purchased a cottage in the park at the corner of Cortez Road and 125th Street West in June 2021, donated $250 in August 2021. The Smoragiewicz, nature-lovers who operate a yak farm in South Dakota’s Black Hills, said March 16 that while the economic impacts a high bridge would have on the park and community of Cortez played PLeaSe, See coRTeZ BRIdGe, neXt Page

Ready for Season? Are you taking full advantage of the spring season on AMI? You can improve your odds for success and reach The Islander’s readers — residents, seasonal visitors and vacationers — looking for things to do. Shop, dine, events and indoor and outdoor fun. For advertising info, call or text 941-778-7978.

March 23, 2022 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 9 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

New faces, ideas emerge in Bradenton Beach By robert anderson islander reporter

Bradenton Beach commissioners welcomed new hires and took up a number of issues at their March 17 meeting at city hall. Police Chief John Cosby, addressing the commission at the mid-day meeting, touted the work of Officer Eric Hill on a program to remove derelict boats from the anchorage area south of the Historic Bridge Street Pier. Cosby also introduced to commissioners two newly sworn BBPD officers — Charles Marose, formerly of the Florida Highway Patrol, and Kyle Orms, previously of the Bradenton Police Department. The chief also talked about equipping officers, specifically working toward obtaining grant funding through applications to the West Coast Inland Navigation District for a new police boat. In other business, Darryl Richard, a landscape architect with the Florida Department of TransportacoRTeZ BRIdGe continued froM Page 8

a role in their decision to donate, the natural consequences of such a large structure were a more important factor. “From what we’ve read or been told, it’s not clear that the state has really done all the research it probably should in terms of determining environmental impacts,” Julie Smoragiewicz said. “Obviously, any kind of coastal environment is at risk. And there have been plenty of other issues that have impacted the community, from phosphates to red tide.” Another important factor for the couple was the high bridge’s impact on the human environment, namely pedestrians’ ability to travel over the Intracoastal Waterway between Cortez on the mainland and Bradenton Beach on the island. “In the time we’ve been here, we see lots and lots of people who either walk or bike, get pulled in a

tion District 1, fielded questions regarding landscape elements and the cost associated with the planned infrastructure updates along Gulf Drive, which is a state road. Another agenda item, taken up late in the meeting and to be further discussed at another meeting, dealt with an upcoming charter review. Mayor John Chappie expressed a desire to change the four city wards back to their original numbers. “One of the reasons this is on the agenda is we are coming up on the fifth year … and you have to do (a charter review) in the fifth year,” Chappie said. He continued, “This year is a major election coming up so we would have better turnout of the electorate, hopefully, more participation. I would also like to see the wards change back to their normal designated numbers as they were in the past.” Commissioners decided to push the charter review discussion to a meeting in April, which was not on the city calendar as of Islander press time.

BB planners discuss changes By robert anderson islander reporter

Bradenton Beach Planning and Zoning Board members are taking up some editing work. The P&Z met March 16 at Bradenton Beach City Hall, 107 Gulf Drive N., to discuss definitions and processes for drainage calculations. The board also considered streamlining the city’s system for redevelopment and new construction. The citizen board recommends land-use policies to the city commission and reviews development proposals. Members devoted their attention at the meeting to the definition of “open space” and how the vagaries of the current definition might impact the use of pervious and impervious surfaces in development. The city’s land development code states, “Open space means any developed or undeveloped lots, lands, or water, not including water below the mean high water line, which is open and unobstructed from the water to the sky.” The LDC also stipulates that 40% of a lot must be “open space.” P&Z members spoke in favor of possibly doing away with the 40% rule and redefining open space on a residential lot as a smaller than 40% area that is landscaped. Talks led to the idea of using the term “green spaces” or “landscaped areas.” Chairman Ken McDonough said he intended to work toward a more detailed definition of “green space” for the next P&Z meeting in April. As of Islander press time, the next meeting was not scheduled.

wagon, whatever, across the bridge,” Julie Smoragiewicz said. “And I can’t say that I’ve done the math on it, but even with the prospect of the bridge extending to 125th, I can’t imagine that the new incline is going to be nearly as pedestrian or bike-friendly as it is now.” “And so I think that maybe the (DOT’s) goal is to reduce traffic congestion and things like that,” she said. “But, I think maybe an unintended consequence will be that there will be more vehicles on the island because there will be fewer people who are in a position to pull their kids in a wagon, or ride their bike or walk across the bridge because of the incline.” “It won’t be as comfortable, you know, for any- Milestones body, even regular walkers, probably. And for a certain The Islander welcomes stories about islanders segment, it will be downright impossible,” she said. and island life, as well as photographs and notices of To contribute to FISH’s anti-megabridge fund, the milestones in readers’ lives — weddings, births, visit gofundme.com/f/stop-the-mega-bridge-from- anniversaries, travels, obituaries and other events. devastating-cortez. Submit announcements to news@islander.org.

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Page 10 THE ISLANDER | islander.org March 23, 2022 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Annie Silver serving BBQ

Annie Silver Community Center volunteers invite people to dig into a barbecue feast 5-7 p.m. Wednesday, March 23. The center, 103 23rd St. N., Bradenton Beach, will hold its third community dinner of the season, offering barbecue ribs and chicken entrees prepared by Bigg Dogg BBQ of Sarasota, as well as side dishes, dessert and drink for $10. For more information, call Donna Kirkpatrick at 941-757-6029.

compiled by Lisa neff, calendar@islander.org.

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT ON AMI Wednesday, March 23 7 p.m. — Richard Marx in concert, Center of Anna Maria Island, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria. Fee applies. Information: 941-7781908. ONGOING ON AMI

Bingo nights continue

Artists’ Guild of Anna Maria Island “Art Unites Us” online exhibit, amiartistsguildgallery.com. Information: 941-778-6694. throughout March, Sue elliott’s “Wonderful World mixed-media exhibit, Island Gallery West, 5368 Gulf drive, Holmes Beach. Information: islandgallerywest.com, 941-778-6648.

The Annie Silver Community Center continues to host bingo games Thursdays at 6 p.m. Players will ﬁnd social opportunities, rafﬂes, sweets and other treats. For more information, call Donna Kirkpatrick at 941-757-6029.

AHeAd ON AMI April 2, Center of Anna Maria Island concert, Anna Maria. April 8, Center of Anna Maria Island bingo night, Anna Maria.

Judy Pruitt, annie Silver community center secretary, checks her bingo card Jan. 26. the center, 103 23rd St. n., Bradenton Beach, hosts bingo games at 6 p.m. thursdays this spring at the center.

ONGOING OFF AMI through April 24, “Beyond van Gogh: the Immersive experience,” Starry Night Pavilion at University town Center, 195 University town Center drive, Sarasota. Fee applies. Info: vangoghsarasota.com. through April 29, Fridays, 6-8 p.m., Music in the Park, Rossi Park Pavilion on the Riverwalk, downtown Bradenton. Information: 941-301-8445. Saturdays, 9 a.m.-2 p.m., Bradenton Farmers Market, Main Street, downtown Bradenton. Information: realizebradenton.com, 941-301-8445. Second and fourth Saturdays, 2-4 p.m., Music on the Porch jam session, presented by the Florida Maritime Museum and Cortez Cultural Center, outdoors, 4415 119th St. W., Cortez. Information: ﬂoridamaritimemuseum.org, fmminfo@manateeclerk.com.

Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341. Island Library, 5701 Marina drive, Holmes Beach. Information: Tuesday, March 29 mymanatee.org/library, 941-778-6341. 10 a.m.— Family storytime, Island Library, 5701 Marina drive, Saturday, March 26 Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341. 6 p.m. – Clint Hurdle Hot Stove dinner virtual benefit the Prader-Willi Syndrome Association. Fee applies. athotstove2022. ONGOING OFF AMI givesmart.org. through Aug. 7, “Sharks: On Assignment with Brian Skerry” ONGOING ON AMI exhibit, Mote Marine Aquarium, 1600 Ken thompson Parkway, City Island, Sarasota. Fee applies. Information: 941-388-4441. thursdays, 6 p.m., bingo night, Annie Silver Community Center, 103 23rd St N., Bradenton Beach. Information: 941-757-6029. AHeAd OFF AMI Fridays, 11:30 a.m., Mahjong Club, Island Library, 5701 Marina April 15, de Soto Heritage Fest Children’s Parade, Palmetto. drive, Holmes Beach. Information: mymanatee.org/library, 941-778KIDS & FAMILY April 30, de Soto Heritage Fest Grand Parade, Bradenton. 6341. May 28, Snooks Adams Kids day, tBd. Saturdays, 8:30 a.m., Kiwanis Club of Anna Maria Island meetON AMI ing, Bradenton Beach City Hall, 107 Gulf drive N., Bradenton Beach. CLUBS & Friday, March 25 Information: 941-778-1383. 10 a.m. — Forty Carrots, Island Library, 5701 Marina drive, COMMUNITY Mondays, 12:30 p.m., Anna Maria Bridge Club, Roser Memorial Community Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Information: ON AMI A Hair Day Salon & Spa 205-910-6344, 941-778-0414. Wednesday, March 23 tuesdays, 8:30 a.m.-2 p.m., Farmers Market in the Park, City 5 p.m. — Friends of the Island Library anniversary party, Island Pier Park, Pine Avenue and Bay Boulevard, Anna Maria. Information: Two deep tissue one-hour massages $144. ($16 savings) Library, 5701 Marina drive, Holmes Beach. Information: mymanatee. 941-708-6130. Or, 1:30 deep-tissue org/library, 941-778-6341. massage with reflexology tuesdays, 11:30 a.m., Mahjong Club, Island Library, 5701 $108. ($12 savings) 5-7 p.m. — Annie Silver Community Center barbecue dinner, Marina drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341. Must mention Gift with each massage. 103 23rd St. N., Bradenton Beach. Fee applies. Information: 941ad, can not be Good for Mondays & tuesdays, noon, duplicate bridge, episcopal Church of the combined with Fridays in March. 757-6029. other offers. Annunciation, 4408 Gulf drive, Holmes Beach. Fee applies. InforThursday, March 24 mation: 703-582-7755. MOUNT VERNON PLAZA 2 p.m. — Sunshine Stitchers Knit and Crochet, Island Library, 9516 CORTEZ RD. W., MM34454

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March 23, 2022 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 11 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Groovin’ on a Saturday evening

Paradise Center celebrates foolishness April 1 Hey, jokers. Yo, pranksters. The Paradise Center on Longboat Key invites April Fools’ Day celebrants to join in foolishness and fundraising April 1. The center is hosting its seventh “highly anticipated, foolishly-themed fundraiser” to be held outdoors 4-7 p.m. Friday, April 1 — weather-permitting. Organizers, in a news release, promised “lots of laughs, plus dancing with musical entertainment by Dan Fugazzotto, delicious appetizers by Harry’s Continental Kitchen, a cash bar with a signature Fool’s

Gold cocktail, a live auction for a spa gift bag from the Resort at Longboat Key Club” and more. People can purchase a “Frugal Fool” ticket, which includes admission and a drink ticket for $75, or a “Fabulous Fool” ticket,” which includes admission, two drink tickets and entry into the grand-prize giveaway for $100. Tickets can be purchased via credit card at theparadisecenter.org or at the center, 546 Bay Isles Road, Longboat Key, with cash. For more information, call the center at 941-3836493.

BBPD chief to address club

AHeAd ON AMI

April 20, Anna Maria Island Garden Club member meeting and Bradenton Beach’s police chief — also the city’s luncheon, Anna Maria. longtime disaster preparedness expert — will address May 15, Anna Maria Island Privateers Shiprek Poker Run. the Kiwanis Club of Anna Maria Island March 26. July 23, Christmas in July at the drift-In, Bradenton Beach. BBPD Chief John Cosby will talk about hurricane

preparedness during the Saturday meeting, set for 8:30 a.m. at Bradenton Beach City Hall, 107 Gulf Drive tuesdays, 11:30 a.m., Rotary Club of Anna Maria Island lunch N. meeting, Slicker’s eatery, 12012 Cortez Road, Cortez. Info: 512For more information, call Sandy Haas-Martens the final performance in the Bradenton gulf islands 944-4177. at 941-778-1383. concert Series will be Saturday, april 2, featurONGOING OFF AMI

ing felix cavaliere’s rascals. the indoor show will begin about 7 p.m. at the center, 407 Magnolia ave., tee Ave. W., Perico Island. Information: 941-742-5923. April 1, Paradise Center’s April Fool’s fun, Longboat Key. 9 a.m. — Salt Marsh planting, Robinson Preserve expansion, anna Maria, with doors opening at 6 p.m. cavaliere, a rock and roll hall of famer, formed the Young 840 99th St. NW, Bradenton. Information: 941-742-5923. OUTDOORS & rascals in the 1960s with dino danelli, eddie Brigati SPORTS AHeAd OFF AMI and gene cornish. While promoting a message of ONGOING ON AMI April 16, Sarasota Bay estuary Program Flamingo Cay Paddle peace and love, they hit the charts with tunes such as “i’ve Been Lonely too Long,” “groovin’” and Cleanup, Flamingo Cay. AMI dragon Boat team—Paddlers from Paradise practices and April 30, Sarasota Bay estuary Program 2022 Seagrass Survey, “good Lovin’.” for concert details or tickets, go meetups, various times and locations. Info: 941-462-2626, mrbradonline to centerami.org or call the center at 941Sarasota. way@gmail.com. May 7, Margaritaville Night with the Bradenton Marauders, 778-1908. islander courtesy Photo OFF AMI Bradenton. AHeAd OFF AMI

Friday, March 25 5:30 p.m. — Robinson Preserve twilight 5K and 10K run, Robinson, 1704 99th St. NW, Bradenton. Info: 941-742-5923. Saturday, March 26 9 a.m. — Master gardener tour, Perico Preserve, 11700 Mana-

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the anna Maria island art League draws people to the holmes Beach park March 19, the first day of the two-day juried fine arts and crafts festival, Springfest. the event raised money for aMiaL programs, including youth scholarships. the “best in show” prize went to cynthia Walston. John cheer and ron deel won awards of distinction and Kowena Suckstorf, Maureen abdullah and Jay canterbury won awards of merit.

Springtime fest in the field

Springfest judge anne abgott visits March 19 with exhibiting artist Melissa fego of fego gioielli jewelry. the fine arts festival drew people to the park March 19-20. islander Photos: Lisa neff Volunteers Katy demick and Jeannette Bernstein offer raffle tickets for artwork at the anna Maria island art League’s annual Springfest, held March 19-20 at city field in holmes Beach.

artist Princy fears of the cali-florida Princy’s Wearable arts readies her booth at the anna Maria island art League’s Springfest in holmes Beach.

Heritage Day brings crowd to historical society fair

anna Maria city commissioner carol carter, left, and anna Maria island historical Society vice president Barbara Murphy prepare strawberry shortcake to serve March 15 at the aMihS Museum, 402 Pine ave., anna Maria, during heritage day. carter serves as the city’s liaison to aMihS. Murphy is wife of anna Maria Mayor dan Murphy. the event, which raised money for aMihS, included crafts, food and live music.

People crowd the aMihS Museum March 15 on tours, learning island history from docents and board members, including nancy deal, center, in a ball cap and purple shirt. islander Photos: ryan Paice

need a good laugh? visit the emerson quillin signature store. humor, art, gifts 317 Pine Ave., Anna Maria • emersonshumor.com

Castner Castner

Ê 1, /1,

donna Stansbury of catwalk Weavings spins thread out of wool during heritage day.

“Anna Maria Island,” a pictorial history book of the island by Bonner Joy, is available for $20 at the islander office, 315 58th St., holmes Beach. Joy is publisher of the islander newspaper. She came to aMi in 1975 and launched the newspaper in 1992.

We ROCk ONliNe

Full-Service Furniture Store & Design Center

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islander.org

March 23, 2022 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 13 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

AME pays homage to Disney faves anna Maria elementary resource officer christine LaBranche, an officer with the holmes Beach Police department, stands with Bliss rippy, who gave flowers March 1 to aMe third-graders Mazzy cacic, center, and Karlie niehus after the “disney” performance. islander Photos: courtesy Jill niehus aMe third-graders perform songs from disney films March 1, for their musical presentation in the auditorium. the next aMe student play will be april 19.

Dough for PTO aMe fifthgraders Jackson Kennedy, left, and Jesse Zaccagnino enjoy a bite of cake March 9, during the otis Spunkmeyer fundraiser. islander Photo: courtesy Kari Kennedy

STEMsational students anna Maria elementary students earned trophies at the Manatee county School district annual SteM fair March 5 at the Bishop Museum of Science and nature, Bradenton. third-place in physical science went to fourth-grader Lexi Baugher, left, first-place in engineering went to fifth-grader Mason Moss, second-place in life sciences went to fifth-grader conrad elmore and secondplace in physical science went to fifth-grader Lily Plummer. islander Photo: courtesy aMe/Pidge Barreda

School days The Islander welcomes photos and notices of student

achievements, accolades and just old-school good times. Please, email news@islander.org and include a name and contact number.

AME Calendar

• Tuesday, March 22, TSA field trip. • Monday, April 4, 3:30 p.m., PTO membership meeting, in the cafeteria. • Tuesday, April 5, third-grade FSA reading assessment. • Wednesday, April 6, third-, fourth- and fifth-grade FSA reading assessment. • Friday, April 15, Good Friday, no school. Anna Maria elementary is at 4700 Gulf drive, Holmes Beach. For more information, call the school at 941-708-5525.

Tiki & Kitty’s Let’s go shopping!

Tiki and Kitty sprang forward to spend more time shopping! They’re always ready to visit their favorite thrifts and boutiques. Kitty says, “Let the spring shopping begin!” Cat’s Meow has 7,700 square feet of vintage, unique and repurposed items. You may want to lace up your skates, as this large vintage skating rink has plenty to offer bargain, antique, unique hunters. Plus,

Your place for fun, funky

there’s a mancave and a cool clothing boutique. You don’t want to miss this vast collection of vendors. Blue Flamingo offers hip and trendy upcycled and repurposed goods, furniture and decor, from antique cameras to garden features, candles, jewelry and work by local artisans. They also offer Dixie Belle paints. Blessed and Distressed is a tastefully designed store — so inviting, you’ll want to stay and visit — filled with collectibles and work by local artists. The store is in Palma Sola Square, around the corner from

quirky!

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

Winn-Dixie. It offers 30-plus vendors, including vintage, upcycled, shabby chic, fanciful frocks and local crafts and art. You won’t be disappointed. You Never Know Thrift has everything you could want: clothes, kitchenwares, small appliances, furniture, DVDs and autographed sports memorabilia. The inventory is constantly changing. We keep going back. You never know what you will find. Scavengers Marketplace welcomes you to peruse the goodies for a good cause at the Island Shopping Center in Holmes Beach. Purchases at the store benefit Moonracer No Kill Pet Rescue — our favorite pet rescue group. Founder Lisa Williams is The Islander office manager and, along with board member/Islander sales rep Toni Lyon, leads the rescue efforts. FYI: Scavengers also carries Fusion Paints. And don’t forget, tell people you meet along the way, “The Islander sent me.”

30 + VENDORS & LOCAL ARTISTS Wed-Sat 10-5 Thur 10-6 615 59th St. W. Bradenton

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

5402 Marina Dr. Holmes Beach 941-900-1552

Page 14 THE ISLANDER | islander.org March 23, 2022 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Gathering

Volunteer Jeanette rothberg shares a moment with diners at the roser Memorial community church pancake breakfast. at the table are Leigh terrafranca, clockwise from left, Shirley geswein, ed geswein and nancy chepenuk. roser will serve its next pancake breakfast 8-11 a.m. Saturday, March 26. for $7, diners can enjoy pancakes, sausages, biscuits and gravy and more. there is no charge for children under age 5. islander Photo: Lisa neff

By Lisa neff

Gloria Dei conducts PJ drive

Gloria Dei Lutheran Church is collecting pajamas until Sunday, March 27. A notice in the church news bulletin said the collection for the Manatee County Safe Children’s Coalition benefits children entering the foster care system. New pajamas for all sizes of kids are welcome but especially needed for older kids and teens. Donations can be dropped off at the church office during business hours or in the narthex. Gloria Dei is at 6608 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. For more info, call the church at 941-778-1813.

Tidings

ReGULAR WORSHIP

10:15 a.m. — episcopal Church of the Annunciation. 10:30 a.m. — St. Bernard.

‘Pray for peace’ vigil set

ONGOING eveNtS

Wednesdays, 7:15 a.m., St. Bernard Rosary on the Beach, Manatee Public Beach, Holmes Beach. Wednesdays, 7 a.m., CrossPointe men’s Bible meeting. Most Wednesdays, 8 a.m., episcopal Church of the Annunciation men’s breakfast meeting. Wednesdays, 9 a.m., Roser Freedom through Faith Meditation program. Wednesdays, 9:30 a.m., Gloria dei social gathering, at a private home. Please contact the church for more information. Wednesdays, 9:30 a.m., CrossPointe women’s Bible study. Wednesdays, 6:45 p.m., CrossPointe Wednesday Night Blast. thursdays, 10 a.m., Longboat Chapel Shifting Sands support meeting. thursdays, 4 p.m., Roser Church handbell class. thursdays, 7 p.m., Roser Church chancel choir rehearsals. Thursdays, 9:30 a.m., Roser Church Roser Robics fitness. is the religion page for The Second and fourth Fridays, 11 a.m., Roser Just Older Youth Islander. Send announcements, calendar listings and meeting. photos to calendar@islander.org. Tuesdays, 9:30 a.m., Roser Church Roser Robics fitness.

Monday-Friday 8:30 a.m. — St. Bernard Catholic Church, 248 S. Harbor drive, Holmes Beach. Info: 941-778-4769, stbernardcc.com. Thursdays 9:30 a.m. — episcopal Church of the Annunciation, 4408 Gulf drive, Holmes Beach. Info: 941-778-1638, amiannunciation.org. Saturdays 4 p.m. — St. Bernard Catholic Church. 5 p.m. — Gloria dei Lutheran Church, 6608 Marina drive. Holmes Beach. Info: 941-778-1813, gloriadeilutheran.com. Sundays 8 a.m. — episcopal Church of the Annunciation. 8:30 a.m. — St. Bernard Catholic Church. 8:30 a.m. — Roser Memorial Community Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Info: 941-778-0414, roserchurch.com. 9 a.m. — CrossPointe Fellowship, 8605 Gulf drive, Holmes SPeCIAL dAteS Beach. Info: 941-778-0719, crosspointefellowship.church. 9:15 a.m. — Harvey Memorial Community Church, 300 Church Wednesdays until easter, 5:30 p.m., Annunciation Lenten proAve., Bradenton Beach. Info: 941-779-1912. gram, including soup supper. 9:30 a.m. — Gloria dei. Friday, March 25, 6 p.m., Annunciation’s the Feast of the 10 a.m. — Roser Church. Annunciation eucharist followed by parish potluck. 10 a.m. — Christ Church of Longboat Key, 6400 Gulf of Mexico Saturday, March 26, 8-11 a.m., Roser pancake breakfast. Drive, Longboat Key. Info: 941-900-4903, christchurchoﬂbk.org. Saturday, March 26, 9 a.m.-1 p.m., Christ Church of Longboat 10 a.m. — Longboat Island Chapel, 6200 Gulf of Mexico drive, Key book sale. Longboat Key. Info: 941-383-6491, longboatislandchapel.org.

Growing in Jesus’ Name

A vigil for peace in Ukraine was to take place March 22 at Roser Memorial Community Church. The Tuesday vigil, set for after The Islander’s weekly press schedule, was to begin at 1 p.m. in the chapel, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Roser also was inviting people to visit the chapel 10 a.m.-5 p.m. to share “the power of prayer,” according to a March 16 news release. The release included a Ukrainian missionary’s report to Roser: “There is no greater weapon you have to help us than your prayers. … Pray that evil will be defeated. May God bless and keep Ukraine!” For more information about the event, call the church office at 941-778-0414.

Worship With Us at Our Church Sunday Service 10:00 AM The Rev. Dr. Norman Pritchard

Gathering

Obituaries

At your service

Obituaries are offered as a community service to residents and families of residents, both past and present, as well as to those people with ties to the island. Submit to news@islander.org. Obituaries are provided free — a service of your community newspaper. Paid obituaries can be discussed with advertising specialist Toni Lyon at 941-778-7978.

Roser Church

“...a beautiful place to explore your faith...”

IN PERSON in the Sanctuary Nursery • Children’s Church ONLINE � Watch LIVE or LATER

Masks Are Optional Watch Our 10:00 AM Service Live: www.bit.ly/cclbksermons or www.christchurchoflbk.org (follow YouTube link)

Hundreds of Bargain Priced Books – Lightly Used and New

SUNDAY WORSHIP 8:30 AM or 10:00 AM

RoserChurch.com

Text ROSER to 22828 to receive the weekly eBulletin The CHAPEL is open during office hours for prayer and meditation 941-778-0414 • 512 Pine Ave, Anna Maria • FOLLOW us on Facebook @RoserChurch

i.wed

The Islander Wedding Directory ACCOMMODATIONS

Saturday • March 26th 9:00 am to 1:00 pm • • • • • • •

Recent Best-selling Fiction Secular Nonfiction Spiritual Nonfiction Jigsaw Puzzles CDs & DVDs CASH ONLY Coffee Table Books Signed Editions

Inside Fellowship Hall - Christ Church of Longboat Key 6400 Gulf of Mexico Dr. • 941.383.8833 (oﬃce) • www.christchurchof lbk.org

Bungalow Beach Resort DIRECTLY ON THE BEACH! Classic 1930s island-style resort. 800.779.3601 bungalow@bungalowbeach.com www.bungalowbeach.com MUSIC/ENTERTAINMENT Gulf Drive Band The Best! Classic Dance Tunes Musical Entertainment DJ for Weddings, Receptions. Call: 941.778.0173. gulfdriveband@gmail.com

PHOTOGRAPHY Island Photography Beautiful and creative photography to treasure for a lifetime. Dara Caudill • 941-778-5676 islandphotography.org WEDDING PLANNER AMI Beach Weddings Destination Beach Wedding Experts. AMIBeachWeddings.com love@amibeachweddings.com

TO BE INCLUDED: CALL ISLANDER AD EXPERT TONI

941.778.7978 OR TONI@ISLANDER.ORG

LYON

March 23, 2022 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 15 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Free flower show draws crowd to Anna Maria

Remy Montufar, age 4 1/2, casts his vote in the “Bridge” category at the Anna Maria Island Garden Club show, with grandparents Debra and Mike, and Dad Adam in tow. The Montufars traveled from Iowa to Anna Maria Island on spring break, and as they passed Roser Church, Remy read the garden club sign and asked to see the “FIRE Flower Show.” The winners pose with their gift awards, far left, and left, Dusty Crane, center, of the garden club, announces and calls up the winners. Islander Photos: Bonner Joy

Annual flower show winners Members of the Anna Maria Island Garden Club competed March 16 in a flower arranging show for best floral displays in 10 categories. The free event, including refreshments and home-baked cookies for all, was held in the Roser Church fellowship hall. Voting in 10 categories — formerly with

Surf’s up on AMI

pennies and coins — was by “ticket” this year. And the tickets also were free, 10 per person. Winners include Sea Shells, Karen Anderson; Sunrise/Sunset, Rita Allan; Bridges, Tina Wolfe; Paradise, Kim Darnell; Au Natural, Ginger Huhn; Drifting Along, Kathy Donna; Underwater Beauty, Zan Fuller; Swaying Palms, Kathy Goertitz; Horticulture, Georgia Makele; and Sunn Beaches, Zan Fuller.

Thrifty fashion finds show off in the fellowship hall Ruth Cawein is styling in finds from the Roser Guild Thrift Shop during a guild luncheon and fashion show March 8 at the church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Islander Photo: Peggy Nash

Georgio Gomez, island native, pounds the surf March 16 on Anna Maria Island. Islander Photos: Chris Whittaker

Page 16 THE ISLANDER | islander.org March 23, 2022 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Streetlife

Staff reports

Island police reports

Anna Maria March 9, 300 block of North Bay Boulevard, suspicious circumstances. The Manatee County Sheriff’s Office dispatched a deputy in response to a possible burglary. The caller reported cellphone lights were visible through a home’s window. The MCSO also had a description of a vehicle seen at the site and a driver was stopped. The driver said he worked in the neighborhood and parked at the property because there was no available parking at his workplace. The MCSO determined no burglary occurred and the driver was released. The MCSO polices Anna Maria. Bradenton Beach March 16, 2653 Gulf Drive S., Coquina South Boat Ramp parking lot, drugs. Two Bradenton men were cited by a Bradenton Beach police officer for misdemeanor possession of marijuana — not more than 20 grams. They were given notices to appear. Bradenton Beach Police Department polices Bradenton Beach. Cortez March 11, Tide Tables, 12507 Cortez Road, assault. The Manatee County Sheriff’s Office responded to a report of an assault. A woman reported an altercation in the restaurant parking lot involving a motorist who tried to strike her with a vehicle. The MCSO was investigating the incident, involving the woman, one suspect and two persons of interest. March 14, 12300 block of Cortez Road, theft. The MCSO responded to a bicycle theft. The complainant said the bike, valued at $3,500, was attached to the back of an RV. A serial number for the bike was entered into a law enforcement database. The MCSO polices Cortez. Holmes Beach March 9, 100 block of 34th Street, grand theft. A person called the Holmes Beach Police Department to report a theft. The man provided video footage of a

Holmes Beach man arrested for damaging island trolley By Ryan Paice Islander Reporter

Manatee County Sheriff’s Office deputies arrested Holmes Beach resident Cash Nichols, 27, March 8 for alleged criminal mischief involving $200-$1,000 in damages to the island trolley. The charge is a first-degree misdemeanor. If convicted, the punishment could include up to a year in jail and a fine of $1,000. The arrest stems from a Feb. 11 incident at a Manatee County Area Transit trolley stop near the Anna Maria City Pier, 100 S. Bay Blvd., when the driver refused service to a man without shoes, later identified motorist who opened a mailbox and removed several items before driving away. March 10, Manatee Public Beach, 4000 Gulf Drive, underage drug possession. An officer saw a vehicle parked after hours at the beach parking lot. Three people were outside the vehicle. The officer approached the group, which included two juveniles, and smelled marijuana. Two people handed over small bags of marijuana. The officer searched the vehicle and found an open bottle of liquor and several cans of alcoholic beverages. The officer issued citations and a court summons and called their parents to pick them up. March 11, 400 block of 80th Street, Baker Act. Multiple officers responded to reports of a man threatening to commit suicide with a firearm. An officer made contact and transported the man to Centerstone Behavioral Hospital in Bradenton for treatment. March 13, 600 block of Manatee Ave., larceny. A person called the HBPD to report a bicycle pet trailer was missing. The officer issued a case card and a victim’s rights pamphlet and was working to obtain security footage from cameras in the area. Holmes Beach Police Department polices Holmes Beach. Streetlife is based on incident reports and narratives from the BBPD, HBPD and MCSO.

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Sarasota woman arrested for DUI in Holmes Beach

Holmes Beach police arrested Sarasota resident Stacy Kaszuba, 35, March 11 on a second-degree misdemeanor for driving under the influence of alcohol. An officer saw a motorist speeding south and fail to make a turn around, spin and lose control in the 4100 block of Gulf Drive. The officer conducted a traffic stop and reported the driver showed signs of impairment. Kaszuba refused to perform field sobriety tests. Police arrested and transported her to the Manatee County jail. An arraignment will be at 8:55 a.m. Tuesday, April 12, at the Manatee County Judicial Center, 1051 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton. — Ryan Paice

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as Nichols, according to a March 7 complaint for an arrest warrant. “The male became argumentative towards the driver, at which point the driver closed the trolley doors. The male then began hitting the glass on the doors with his fists causing (the window) to crack. After causing the damage, the male walked away. The damage was estimated at $500,” the complaint states. The trolley camera captured video of the incident. MCSO deputies identified Nichols with the help of the video and testimony from a bystander. The MCSO investigated, submitted an arrest report and received a requested warrant March 7. MCSO deputies arrested Nichols March 8 at his residence and transported him to the Manatee County jail, where he was released March 10 after posting $500 bond. An arraignment will be at 9 a.m. Monday, April 11, at the Manatee County Judicial Center, 1051 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton.

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Cheese & Charcuterie Fresh Baked Bread Gourmet Retail … Olive Oil, Vinegar, Spices. Graze-worthy Sweet Treats A Daily Menu of Sandwiches and Grazing Boxes... Blooms by the Bunch GRAZE STREET AMI 941-896-6320 3218 E. Bay Drive | Holmes Beach grazestreetami.com | @grazestreetami

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WHITE CLAM LINGUINI Live Music Friday & Saturday Cocktails, Beer & Wine 121 Bridge St. Bradenton Beach 941-896-9737 bluemarlinami.com

March 23, 2022 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 17 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Cops & Courts

Staff reports

Apollo Beach resident arrested for battery, tampering By ryan Paice islander reporter

WMFR moves forward with performance audit By ryan Paice islander reporter

The West Manatee Fire Rescue District’s services will be put to the test. WMFR commissioners reached a consensus March 15 to appoint Commissioner Robert Bennett as chair of a three-person committee to select a vendor to complete a performance audit of district goals and objectives. Chief Ben Rigney said the 2021 Legislature passed a bill requiring independent special fire control districts to conduct a performance audit every five years. He said the Florida Association of Special Districts

Holmes Beach police arrested Apollo Beach resident Georjeanna Thomas, 50, March 14 on a thirddegree felony for allegedly tampering with a victim by hindering communication with law enforcement. Thomas also faces two first-degree misdemeanors for alleged battery and criminal mischief. Two Holmes Beach Police Department officers responded to reports of a fight in the 4300 block of Gulf Drive. A woman told police that she and Thomas were drinking alcohol together when Thomas began to leave. The woman said she tried to convince Thomas to stay due to her level of intoxication. The woman said Thomas then choked and struck her and broke her cellphone. An officer noted in a report redness and bruising indicative of chocking. Another officer handcuffed Thomas and transported the woman to the Manatee County jail, where she was released the same day after posting $2,500 bond. The next day, the other party told police she did not want to press charges and declined to provide a statement. She was advised to call the state attorney’s office to dismiss the charges. If the charges are pursued and Thomas is convicted, punishment for a third-degree felony includes up to five years in prison, five years of probation and up to a $5,000 fine. Punishments for a first-degree misdemeanor charge include up to one year in jail and a $1,000 fine. An arraignment is scheduled for 9 a.m. Friday, Lisa Sedillo shakes hands March 15 with deputy March 8, at the Manatee County Judicial Center, 1051 chief Jay Johnson on receiving her promotion from third-class to second-class firefighter. Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton.

provided a template to issue requests for proposals, but much about the audit has yet to be fleshed out. “This is going to be a new audit for everyone,” Rigney said. “There are still a lot of unknowns with what exactly is required, what the final audit will look like and, most importantly, what the final cost is.” He said the audit would involve a review of the district’s fire response, training and its advanced life support program. The committee to select a vendor from RFP respondents will consist of three people, with one member from the fire commission serving as chair and two community members, both appointed by the commission. WMFR employees cannot be appointed to the committee. Commission Chair Larry Jennis nominated Bennett since he expressed interest. The next meeting will be at 6 p.m. Tuesday, April 19, at the WMFR headquarters, 701 63rd St. W., Bradenton.

Lindsey Macdonald pins a badge March 15 to the suit of her husband, tyler, during his promotion from captain to battalion chief. islander Photos: ryan Paice

Ginny’s

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Page 18 THE ISLANDER | islander.org March 23, 2022 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

BB community leaders ﬁne-tune shoreline project By robert anderson islander reporter

Decisions, decisions, decisions. Bradenton Beach community leaders are working to pin down details on a living shoreline project funded by a state grant. Residents, engineers, scientists and others gathered March 17 at Bradenton Beach City Hall, 107 Gulf Drive N., for a joint meeting of the city commission and the community redevelopment agency to discuss details of a shoreline resiliency project along Bay Drive South. The project focuses on shoreline redevelopment between Bridge Street and Fifth Street South, introducing shore protecting elements such as oyster bags, riprap, plantings and sand renourishment. The commission and CRA made decisions, with input from residents and members of an environmental consulting firm, ESA, regarding the types of environmental protection to implement. The project will involve a resiliency barrier wall comprising concrete riprap to protect and fortify Bay Drive South and allow for a new walkway to better protect pedestrians in the CRA district. Private and commercial docks along Bay Drive

South also were a topic of consideration. Krista Czajkowski, a resident of Old Bridge Village, had questions regarding the impact of adding sand to the resiliency barrier. She asked about the impacts on residents’ docks and the depth of the water for safe mooring. “The type of barrier that is put there … could impact the water level,” she said. “So for people who are boaters, it’s already pretty shallow.” She asked if it could result in shallower water, which could impede navigation. ESA engineer Bryan Flynn said the area involved would only be about 10 feet of the mean high-water line, which typically is where mangroves are growing and is shallower than where a boat could navigate. The Florida Resilient Coastlines Program was established by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection in 2017 to help coastal communities assess vulnerabilities to flooding, sea level rise, storm surge and erosion associated with climate change. Funding from the FRCP allows local governments to reinforce their infrastructure and create sustainable shoreline projects meant to limit coastal impacts. Bradenton Beach’s engineering plan is currently financed by a $92,433 FRCP grant.

County-Coquina parking project stalls By robert anderson islander reporter

Work on the southern part of Coquina Beach’s parking lot has stalled. “A change in contractor has put the parking and drainage project behind, so there is no reliable timeline for this project at this point,” Bill Logan, information outreach manager for Manatee County, wrote in a March 18 email to The Islander. The sub-phase 4 and sub-phase 1 portions of the parking and drainage project at the southern end of the county-run beach sit in a state of unfinished limbo. Manatee County in April 2019 began work to improve stormwater drainage and parking conditions at the Bradenton Beach lot, the largest beach parking area on Anna Maria Island. The projected completion date had been December but, with the contractor change and the pause, the timeline may change. Before the project, many sections of the Coquina Beach parking lot would flood during heavy rains, rendering much of the parking area unusable, according to the Manatee County Coquina Beach Parking and Drainage Project website at mymanatee.org.

The parking renovation, which to date has cost $2.7 million out of an allotted $5 million, is funded with tourist development tax dollars and includes covering access roads and parking areas in the south parking lots with pervious concrete. Such surfaces allow the percolation of stormwater into the underground filtration system, allowing gradual introduction to the surrounding waters while removing some pollutants. The project also has included removal of a significant number of Australian pine trees and the addition of other vegetation. Stalled parking project at coquina Beach. islander Photo: robert anderson

riprap walls line a stretch of Bay drive South in Bradenton Beach and would be used as a baseline to re-engineer and improve coastal defenses. islander Photo: robert anderson

County: Conserve water during ‘dry’ season

Manatee County’s utilities department encourages people to conserve water during the “dry season.” Water conservation is critical due to warmer-than-normal temperatures, drier-than-normal weather conditions and ongoing construction at the county’s water treatment plant, according to a news release. Meanwhile, Southwest Florida Water Management District water restrictions are in effect, limiting lawn watering to no more than twice per week. People with addresses ending in an even number can water Thursdays and Sundays before 10 a.m. or after 4 p.m. People at odd addresses can water on Wednesdays and Saturdays before 10 a.m. or after 4 p.m. People at locations without a discernible address, such as rights of way and common areas inside a subdivision, can water Tuesdays and Fridays before 10 a.m. or after 4 p.m. Hand watering and micro-irrigation of plants can be done any day at any time. Also, during the first 30 days of installing new lawns or plants, watering is allowed any day before 10 a.m. or after 4 p.m. Water conservation resources and rules can be found at www.mymanatee.org/water and https:// www.swfwmd.state.fl.us. — Lisa neff

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March 23, 2022 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 19 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

royal terns stand over their chicks. Beachgoers can help shorebirds by avoiding nesting areas and respecting regulations against pets on the beach, as shorebirds can perceive threats from even wellbehaved pets. islander Photo: courtesy Karen Parker

By Lisa Neff

Spring for it

Let’s celebrate March gladness. Flowers are blooming. Songbirds are calling. Manatees are migrating. Spring has arrived. We know from the squirrels rustling in the trees, the manatees arriving in the canals and the swimmers’ commotion in the surf. We’ll see crowds of people on the beaches through the end of April on Anna Maria Island, with wave neff after wave of spring breakers. What we don’t want is for those spring breakers to break spring by trampling gopher tortoise habitat, scaring off a shorebird, knocking down nests or disrupting a manatee’s migration. And so, we’re sharing these reminders and cautions from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission: • Spring is an excellent time to spot gopher tortoises, as they become more active, foraging for food and seeking mates. But remember to stay out of the protected dunes system, which is quality habitat for the gopher tortoise. • Chances of close encounters between manatees and boaters increase in the spring as manatees leave

gopher tortoise hatchlings are vulnerable to predation and are lucky to survive their first year. islander Photo: courtesy fWc

their winter areas and travel in the Intracoastal Waterways and other inland waters. Boaters should slow down and be on the lookout for manatees on the move. • Bat maternity season begins in mid-April. So now is the time to inspect properties for any small cracks or holes that allow bats to enter. You can’t evict them — and don’t want to evict them — during the maternity season. • Raptors can become more aggressive in the spring, while nesting and raising their young. Birds of prey will dive or swoop at people and pets venturing too close — within about 150 feet — of a nest. • Keep a distance from birds on the beach and birds gathering on tree islands. Disturbance can cause birds to abandon nesting sites, which exposes the eggs and chicks to predators, sun exposure and other harm. Shorebirds and seabirds lay their eggs in wellcamouflaged shallow scrapes in the sand. The eggs and newly hatched chicks blend in with sand and shells and are vulnerable to being stepped on unless people look out for them. Herons, egrets and pelicans also nest in mangroves and on tree islands in the spring. • The temperature and timing aren’t quite right for sea turtles, but nesting season soon will begin. The official season for sea turtles on our island beaches is May 1-Oct. 31 and people can help nature run its course by keeping beaches free of obstacles and dark at night during nesting and hatching months. Artificial lighting can disturb nesting sea turtles and disorient hatchlings, so avoid using flashlights or cellphone lights on the beach at night.

Also, during the season, people should turn out lights or close curtains and shades in buildings on and near the beach after dark to ensure nesting turtles aren’t disturbed. • Snakes are most active in the spring and again in the fall. Those who encounter a snake in the yard or on a hike should simply stand back and observe. • Waterfowl such as geese can become more aggressive in the spring, as they are nesting and raising their young. Be sure to keep a safe distance while viewing these species. • American alligators occur in freshwater lakes, slow-moving rivers and wetlands in Manatee County and the other 66 counties in the state. When the weather warms in the spring, alligators become more active and visible as they begin seeking food. So it’s essential to be safe when in or near freshwater. We’re talking to you there, on the golf course!

hBPd wrestles a gator that found it’s way to the beach. islander file Photo

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Page 20 THE ISLANDER | islander.org March 23, 2022 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Champs crowned in football, soccer, golf, horseshoe tourneys

with two goals and Osvaldo Cabello finished with 14 saves in the victory. Mark Long scored three goals and made 10 saves and Luca Vecchio had three goals to lead Gulfview. Raul Loera and Julian Rodriguez each added a pair of goals, and Keith Mahoney also scored.

By Kevin P. cassidy islander reporter

St. Patrick’s Day brought championship night to the Center of Anna Maria Island with the adult leagues playing semifinal and championship games in indoor soccer and flag football. We The Best Lenders edged TBT 27-26 to open semifinal action in football behind three touchdown passes and a touchdown catch by cassidy Jaret Rojas. Dominick Otteni also had a big game, finishing with a touchdown pass and a pair of touchdown grabs. Tyler Brewer added a game-high five catches, including one for a TD and Brandon Kull added three extra points to complete the scoring in the Lenders victory. Matt Briley paced TBT with three touchdown passes to Nick Cinelli and added a rushing TD for TBT in the loss. Ryan Moss threw three touchdown passes to lead Moss Builders past Solid Rock Construction 25-20 in the second semifinal game. JB Shuck caught a gamehigh 13 passes, including two for TD, while also adding an extra point. Jordan Demers completed the scoring with a TD grab in the Moss Builders victory. Anthony Mannino threw three TD passes, including two to James Roadman to lead Solid Rock Construction, which also received a touchdown and an extra point from Christian Hampton. The championship game lacked the drama of the semifinals as We The Best Lenders cruised to a 32-12

chaMPS: We the Best Lenders players tyler Brewer, Brandon Kull, Julia King, Jaret rojas, dominick otteni and daniel o’connor celebrate winning the adult flag football league title March 17 at the center of anna Maria island. islander Photo: courtesy coaMi

victory over Moss Builders. Dominick Otteni threw for four touchdowns and added a touchdown reception, while Brandon Kull finished with five catches — two for TDs. Jaret Rojas finished with a TD pass, a TD catch and an extra point for the Lenders, which also received five catches and an extra point from Tyler Brewer in the victory. JB Shuck had a pair of touchdown grabs on eight receptions to lead Moss Builders, which also received two touchdown passes from Ryan Moss.

Beach Bums cruise to indoor soccer crown The adult indoor soccer league at the center held its finale matches March 17. The first semifinal match saw Gulfview Windows & Doors eliminate Sato Real Estate 5-4 thanks to two goals each from Raul Loera and Julian Rodriguez. Luca Vechio added a goal and Mark Long came through with 15 saves to help preserve the victory. Josh Sato had a pair of goals and 16 saves to lead his namesake team, which also received a goal each in the loss from Olaf Krause and Kris Yavalar. The second semifinal match in the gym saw Beach Beach Bums: Yuri Pereira, osvaldo cabello, Lucky Bums outscore Slim’s Place by a 7-4 score thanks to dermaz, Kevin roman, david noval and Mauro fi ve goals from Mauro Vecchio. Kevin Roman added Vecchio show off their championship cups on wina pair of goals and Osvaldo Cabello finished with 13 ning the adult indoor soccer league at the center of anna Maria island. islander Photo: courtesy coaMi saves for the victory. Chris Klotz scored three goals to lead Slim’s, which also received a goal from Jessica Williams and 11 saves from Andrew Sullivan in the loss. Beach Bums then defeated Gulfview Windows & Doors 18-11 in a high-scoring affair that saw six goals from Lucky Dermaz and five goals each from Kevin Roman and Mauro Vecchio. David Noval chipped in

ISLAND PEARL

EXCURSIONS

SportsShort

NT EGMO SS EXPRE

Key Royale crowns St. Patrick’s Day winner The Key Royale Club men’s golfers got the week started March 14 with their weekly modified-Stableford system match. Bob Blaser grabbed clubhouse bragging rights with a score of plus-6 to earn a 2-point victory over Bob Rowley. Buddy Foy, Dave Rinckey and Peter Solleveld tied for third place at plus-3. The women followed March 15 with their regular nine-hole individual-low-net match in three flights. Marcia Friesen and Brenda Solleveld both carded 1-under-par 31s to finish in a tie for first in Flight A. Debbie Duvernay and Margrit Layh tied a stroke back in second place. Annette Hall and Jan Turner had matching 1-underpar 31s to finish in a tie for first place in Flight B. Beth Lindeman was alone in second with an even-par 32. A chip-in on the fourth hole helped Billie Jean Pinson match the even-par 32 carded by Laney Davis to share first place in Flight C. Peggy Clauhs was two strokes back in second place. The members finished the week of golf with a nine-hole scramble on St. Paddy’s Day. The team of Mike Clements, Ron Huibers, Ken Nagengast and Tom Solosky combined on a 3-under-par 29 to earn bragging rights. Second place went to the team of Mike Brakefield, Brian Comer and Scott Mitchell with a score of 2-under-par 30. Pitchers play 9th annual Pepka Tourney The horseshoe players gathered March 16 at the Anna Maria horseshoe pits for their ninth-annual Ron Pepka Memorial Horseshoe Tournament. The tournament honors the late Pepka, longtime lead man for the group. Third place went to Bob Heiger and Ron Hooper after a 21-14 loss to Bob Mason and Dave Long, but kept them alive in the double-elimination tournament. The Mason-Long pairing avenged an earlier loss to Bob Lee and Lisa Allen with a 21-15 victory to set up a winner-take-all match. Mason-Long cruised to a 26-13 victory that ended with a double-ringer by Mason. Lee and Allen settled for second place. Mason was back in the winner’s circle, teaming up with Bob Rowley to win the March 19 games with a 21-18 victory over Ron Hooper and Rod Bussey. Play begins at 9 a.m. at the Anna Maria pits. Warmups begin at 8:45 a.m., followed by team selection. There is no charge to play and everyone is welcome.

Twilight runners to race in Robinson Preserve The 14th annual Robinson Preserve Twilight 5K/10K will take place Friday, March 25. The event includes several races and also a postrace party and awards ceremony. The action will begin at 5:45 p.m. with kids’ dashes, followed by the 5K and 10K races and then the celebration. The event benefits the Big Bill Foundation for scholarships, created in memory of Bradenton native and Fit2Run cofounder Bill Robinson, who died of leukemia in 2020 at 70.

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A portion of the proceeds also will go to the Robinson Preserve and benefit nature preservation and upkeep in the Manatee County park. The main entrance to Robinson Preserve is at 1704 99th St. NW, Bradenton. For more information about the foundation, go online to bigbillfoundation.org. For more information or to register for the race, go to raceroster.com and search for Robinson Preserve Twilight. — Lisa neff

Anna Maria Island Tides

Date

Mar 23 Mar 24 Mar 25 Mar 26 Mar 27 Mar 28 Mar 29 Mar 30

5:49a 4:06p 5:11p 6:53p 12:25p 12:12p 12:16p 12:24p

HIGH

1.1 3:18p 2.4 — 2.3 — 2.1 — 1.5 8:45p 1.5 10:09p 1.5 11:13p 1.6 —

HIGH

2.4 — — — 2.1 2.1 2.1 —

8:02a — 1:20a 2:43a 3:48a 4:38a 5:18a 5:51a

LOW

1.0 11:47p -0.4 — — — -0.4 — — -0.5 — — -0.5 2:29p 1.4 -0.4 4:03p 1.1 -0.3 5:00p 0.8 -0.1 5:46p 0.5

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

Moon

3rd

March 23, 2022 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 21 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Spring break brings fishing plethora to AMI’s door By Capt. Danny Stasny Islander Reporter

Springtime fishing patterns are settling in throughout the waters surrounding Anna Maria Island. Inshore fishing is quite satisfying for anglers targeting the trio of snook, redfish and spotted seatrout. Other species — jack crevalle, Spanish mackerel and ladyfish — are thriving in the Intracoastal waters, giving fishers variety in their tarStasny gets. Don’t forget: March is a great month for pompano, which is yet another species ready to take the leap to the frying pan. Most of the inshore species — excluding the pompano — are being caught on live shiners. As for the pompano, you’ll want to have a few dozen shrimp handy. And, if you have some live shrimp, don’t hesitate to anchor over structure in Tampa Bay or the Gulf of Mexico to try your luck for late-season sheepshead. Moving offshore, permit are demanding attention. Anglers casting live crabs over wrecks and reefs are finding success with this elusive fish. Bottom fishing in depths less than 120 feet of water is yielding red grouper, as well as mangrove and vermilion snappers. Lastly, if you’re looking for some upper-body cardio, amberjack are lurking at the offshore springs. On my own Just Reel charters, spotted seatrout and snook are dominating the bite for clients. For the trout, fishing over deep grass flats in 4-6 feet of water works well. Mixed in are jack crevalle, ladyfish and Spanish mackerel, which adds variety to the bite. As for the snook, shallow flats around mangroves are a good bet. I’m also seeing a mixed bag of redfish and flounder while targeting the snook. Capt. David White is hunting snook on the grass flats of Tampa Bay southward into Sarasota Bay and casting free-lined shiners over shallow grass flats is working well to attract the linesiders to bite. Mangrove edges where good current exists is also good bet. When targeting snook, White’s clients also are hooking into redfish measuring 25-30 inches. Lastly, fishing over deep grass areas is resulting in numerous spotted seatrout for White’s clients. Many are in the slot of 15-19 inches, with a few exceeding 20 inches. Capt. Jason Stock says permit fishing remains a highlight for his charter clients. Casting free-lined live

Cleve Brown of Indianapolis shows off a gorgeous snook that took his live pinfish March 14 on a guided fishing trip with Capt. David White of Anna Maria Charters. The fish was hooked in the no-take zone in Sarasota Bay near Longboat Key and was released after the trophy photo.

crabs over wrecks and reefs in the Gulf is resulting in permit for Stock’s anglers weighing 10-25 pounds. On some occasions, Stock is sight-casting to the fish. Other times, he’s relying on faith that they are there. And typically they are. Switching to live shiners or pinfish as bait is working well for amberjack, mangrove snapper and vermilion snapper. Capt. Warren Girle is stirring up plenty of action while working in Sarasota Bay. Fishing over shal-

low grass flats is yielding snook action, while fishing deeper grass is yielding spotted seatrout, bluefish and Spanish mackerel. All species are reacting best when offered live shiners as bait, Girle reports. Between fishing the deep and shallow flats, Girle is finding success working some secret dock locations for redfish that measure 24-27 inches. Jim Malfese at the Rod & Reel Pier says he’s seeing plenty of sheepshead caught on live shrimp. Casting shrimp under the pier works best to hook up with the buck-toothed, convict-striped fish. While using shrimp as bait, anglers also are hooking into an occasional black drum, redfish and mangrove snapper. Anglers opting to use artificials, such as small jigs or spoons, are reeling up mackerel, although the bite is sporadic. You may also see a jack crevalle or ladyfish while employing this method of fishing, reports Malfese. Send photos and reports to fish@islander.org.

Ron Vantine and his family, visiting AMI from Minnesota, fished nearshore March 10 using white bait to catch numerous snook that all went back to Sarasota Bay after a quick trophy photo! The Vantines were guided by Capt. Warren Girle.

Dave Long, left, and Bob Mason hold prizes for their win in the March 16 ninth annual Ron Pepka Memorial Horseshoe tournament at the Anna Maria horseshoe pits. Islander Photo: Courtesy AMI Pitchers

RIGHT: Andrea Wilkinson of Bradenton shows off a Spanish mackerel she caught March 8 while wade fishing in Sarasota Bay on a day off with friends at Coquina Bayside in Bradenton Beach. Islander Photo: Robert Anderson

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Page 22 THE ISLANDER | islander.org March 23, 2022 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

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By Kane Kaiman

Fans, rags, 4 walls

Forever green-and-gold Regardless of who’s playing quarterback for the Green Bay Packers, fans will fill Lambeau Field — and Fred Bartizal’s Bridge Tender Inn. “What you have to understand about Packers fans is that they’re there to be entertained. So every ticket is sold for these games at home,” Bartizal said March 14. “And, even when you have a losing season, the field is still full.” According to multiple reports, the team resigned four-time NFL Kaiman MVP Aaron Rodgers in mid-March, making him the highest-paid player in league history and increasing game time for the green-and-gold at Bartizal’s Packers bar, 135 Bridge St., Bradenton Beach, for the next few years. However, while business is better on Packer days, the sports bar’s fare, including fish and steak specials and frozen drinks, are year-round draws. The Bridge Tender Inn recently resigned a star of its own — head chef since the restaurant opened in 1989 — Marcus Vega. Vega has retired but leaves the kitchen in good hands. For more information, visit bridgetenderinn.rocks or call 941-778-4849.

Lindsey, left, david, and Brett Koon of david Koon professional wallcovering installations pose March 12 in front of a mural they installed in 2020 at Springhill Suites Bradenton downtown/riverfront. islander Photo: courtesy Belinda Koon

To keep her business afloat, the 32-year vintage clothing retailer left NYC in July 2020 and headed south to Bradenton’s Red Barn Flea Market — a favorite of island shoppers. Nearly two years after then-New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo signed an executive order closing the state’s “nonessential” businesses — including Suzanne’s 14th Street Rags-a-gogo in Manhattan — the Massachusetts native had a choice: Stay in Florida or return to NYC. “It’s like being in war, you really don’t know what you’re feeling until they tell you you don’t have to do it anymore,” Suzanne said March 15. “So, I wasn’t sure, because in the back of my brain, there’s New York, it’s a memory.” Suzanne made the choice to stay in Bradenton. Old clothes, new home “You want to know why?” she said. “I’m such a Rags-a-gogo owner Joshua Suzanne cried March 7, when New York City lifted proof-of-COVID-19- lucky person; I hit New York City (in the 1990s) right vaccination requirements for businesses and masking when it was about to explode into the most amazing place ever. And now I’m in Florida, and it’s exploding requirements for school children. and will explode into the most amazing state ever.” Suzanne said she has been reinventing her business BEN AND KAREN COOPER to meet the needs of Florida’s Baby Boomers and the TAXES & ACCOUNTING tourist population. Items such as vintage North Face "ANK 2ECONCILIATIONS s 0REPARING &INANCIALS jackets have been replaced with tie-dye T-shirts and #ALCULATING 0AYROLLS s (OMEOWNER !SSOCIATIONS )NDIVIDUAL #ORPORATE 4AX 2ETURNS

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Give dad a hand When your back’s against the wall, lean on family. “(My dad) was kind of ready to throw in the towel, he was so overworked,” Lindsey Koon, treasurer of David Koon professional wallcovering installations, said March 9. “Basically, he would manage projects all day long and then he’d be in his hotel room at the end of the night doing what I now do 9-5, Monday through Friday, within an hour before bed,” she said. Lindsey and her brother, Brett, went to work for their father, David, in 2021. With Lindsey managing the administrative side of the business, David was able to tackle more projects. As the business grew, David recruited Brett to carry out the company’s residential workload. “Once we saw the potential of what the business could be, we realized we needed another helping hand, so Brett stepped in,” Lindsey said. “We’re definitely getting busier and busier, wallpaper is back in vogue,

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swimsuits. Rags-a-gogo at the Red Barn, a steady marketing partner in The Islander for 20-plus years, 1751 First St. E., Bradenton, is open Tuesday-Sunday 9 a.m.-4 p.m., offering secondhand cowboy boots, graphic Ts, pearl snaps, denim wear, hats, patches and vinyl records. For more information, visit rags-a-gogo.com or call 212-254-6115.

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March 23, 2022 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 23 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

so it’s just been kind of a happy accident.” David installs wallcovering — including murals and wallpaper, as well as cork, wood, fabric and foil coverings. Customers include the Ringling Museum of Art, IMG Academy, Universal resorts and Disney resorts. The Bradenton outfit, also provides painting and wallpaper removal services. For more information, visit davidkooninc.com or call 941-792-7030. And as always… …Got biz news? Contact Kane Kaiman at kane@ islander.org or call The Islander office at 941-7787978.

rags-a-gogo owner Joshua Suzanne — who moved her longtime new York city vintage clothing business to Bradenton’s red Barn flea Market in 2020 — shows off her lines March 15. islander Photo: Kane Kaiman

Heeding the call of the Moose far Left: Jerry and Penny Wicks arrive March 13 at the anna Maria island Moose Lodge no. 2188 to support the coastal cleanup coordinated by the Women of the Moose at the Bradenton Beach institution, 110 gulf drive S. another cleanup is being planned in april. islander courtesy Photo andres archambault works a shovel at the Moose Lodge in Bradenton Beach during a coastal cleanup held March 13. William-Romberger_3x4.9375_Islander_Banana_Horizontal.pdf

Chantelle Lewin

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9/23/21

6:06 PM

Say hello to your new neighbors

When it comes to buying or selling your home, Please, CALL ME FIRST! LISTING INVENTORY IS LOW! Let my 30-plus years of experience work for you.

andres archambault works a shovel at the Moose Lodge during a coastal cleanup held March 13.

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Page 24 THE ISLANDER | islander.org March 23, 2022 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

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

ITEMS FOR SALE Continued

HELP WANTED Continued

fuLL Set of callaway Big Bertha irons, King cobra driver plus 3/5/7 woods ping putter Srixon golf bag three boxes callaway golf balls, $150. 941-778-6012.

antiQue BaBY carriage: Wood and wicker. Proceeds benefit Moonracer animal rescue. email for photos: moonraceranimalrescue@ gmail.com.

White WicKer deSK and chair. harvey Link Lexington, glass-top. island-style. $300. 708567-2120.

antiQue Partner deSK: all wood, $500. inquire at the islander office, 315 58th St. Suite J, holmes Beach. 941-778-7978.

a PoSitiVe iMage hair salon is hiring! two hairstylists for booth rentals. great working conditions! Warm and welcoming atmosphere for you and your clients! call Margie, 941-962-2119. 7010 cortez road West.

couPon: SaVe $5 on the only patented sandless beach blanket. Bring this coupon to the Beach hut across from ginny’s and Jane e’s cafe on gulf drive, anna Maria. call 855-686-Sand or go to https://sandlessblanket.com for home delivery.

antiQue office chairS: Perfect for eclectic dining set. circa 1950 from anna Maria city hall. inquire at the islander newspaper, 315 58th St. Suite J, holmes Beach. 941-778-7978.

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Kitchen and Bath Remodeling Specialist Replacement Doors and Windows

Andrew Chennault

FULLY LICENSED AND INSURED Island References Lic#CBC056755

RDI CONSTRUCTION INC.

CBC 1253471

Wanted, garage for storage of golf cart and bikes. need electric. call dave, 716-545-0887.

rePorter Wanted: full- to part-time. Print media, newspaper experience required. apply via email with letter of interest to news@islander. org.

PETS

KIDS FOR HIRE

heLP reScued PetS! Volunteer, foster, computer help needed! Moonracer animal rescue. email: moonraceranimalrescue@gmail.com.

dePendaBLe, reSPonSiBLe, fun babysitter for hire. 13 years old, island local. available in June. 941-526-9090.

TRANSPORTATION

KidS for hire ads are free for up to three weeks for island youths under 16 looking for work. ads must be placed in person at the islander office, 315 58th St. Suite J, holmes Beach.

2009 VeSPa LX50 scooter: Low miles, runs great, asking $1,500. 609-828-9798.

LICENSED & INSURED

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

Part-tiMe caShier needed to join our dynamic team. Schedule: Saturday and Sunday. no nights. apply in person. home true Value hardware. 5324 Marina drive, holmes Beach.

chrYSLer SeBring Sedan: 2008, silver, runs well. $4,000. 941-345-2441. text for information.

BOATS & BOATING haVe a Boat and wanna catch more fish, better bait or learn the water? 50-year local fisherman, your boat, my knowledge. captain chris, 941-896-2915.

HEALTH CARE eXPerience cna for hire! 1. Skilled. 2. respite. 3. Long-term 4. home health. i have 22 years in the medical field, i love what i do, serving the elderly. contact information: 941-580-4440. tee0123@yahoo.com. SERVICES

References available • 941-720-7519

AdoptA-Pet

HELP WANTED noW hiring, aLL technical positions. come by for an interview or submit your resume. West coast air conditioning & heating, inc. 5347 gulf drive, holmes Beach. 941-778-9622. westcoastac1@yahoo.com. it’S aLWaYS nice to have a little extra income: i’m looking for four ladies that live on the island who would like to work as a contractor, no benefits, as needed. Saturdays only. no experience needed. text “more info” to 941-685-6823.

Bobby needs YOU!

Bobby is a male lab/dobie mix, 8-9 months old, about 50-pounds and needs a caring family. To meet this cutie, call Lisa Williams at 941-345-2441 or visit The Islander ofﬁce in Holmes Beach. For more about pet adoption, visit moonraceranimalrescue.com.

diVe ShoP retaiL store hiring a full-time employee who already loves diving or is excited to learn about the dive industry. ami@floridaunderwatersports.com. 941-200-0660.

need a ride to airports? tampa $65, St. Pete, $55, Sarasota, $30. gary, 863-409-5875. gvoness80@gmail.com. iS Your hoMe or office in need of some cleaning? Well, i’m your girl! Local, reliable, professional! Please, give me a call or text, 941-773 -0461. cLeaning: Vacation, conStruction, residential, commercial and windows. Licensed and insured. 941-744-7983. PreSSure WaShing, PaVer sealing, driveway, roof, fence, pool area. also, window cleaning. Licensed and insured. 941-565-3931. BicYcLe rePairS: Just4fun at 5358 gulf drive can do most any bicycle repair at a reasonable cost. Pick-up and delivery available. 941-8967884.

More adS = more readers in the islander. SPonSored BY

ANSWERS TO MARCH 23 PUZZLE

A S S I S I

P H A S E R

I S O P O D

S A C H E R

S T A F F

O H L O O K

P A T H T O V I C T O R Y D E V I L E D

E T I T L A L A I R E S P T E C T R I T A T O N R E D O B E R N E M E A S F N O R N A M H E L P E O L A A O R L O W T E L E Y R E D

I S A A C

O B O E

I N S P E C T

B O R E D O M

R A L H E G S

M O U T A O M I C O N E S O P T O R Y G L O E A L O T A D O H H O W O N U S K A P I I L S L A S S I N F T H E G O W E R O D S E B O U N C O P R O W I N G

P A U S E S

T H A T S A B I G I F

A C I F T A C A P S E L A L I S O N W A R T E L W O A L E P R I L L A A L A T S C K E

I M L I K E

C A S T E S

O P E N E R

D O D D E R

M A S O N I C

H I G H L Y

O N E A L

E C R G A G O R O S G B A N E L U R E

Signature AMI gifts! White and

tie-dye “More-Than-a-MulletWrapper” T-shirts, $10-$15, and AMI stickers, $2. Come shop at The Islander, 315 58th St., Holmes Beach. And we’ve got Jack Elka calendars!

March 23, 2022 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 25 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

I S L A N D E R C L A S S I F I E D S SERVICES Continued

HOME IMPROVEMENT Continued

RENTALS Continued

COMPANION/HOMEMAKER: Honest and reliable offering help with running errands, grocery shopping, house sitting, pet and plant care, light cooking/cleaning, transportation. References available and licensed. Call Sherri, 941-592-4969.

GRIFFIN’S HOME IMPROVEMENTS Inc. Handyman, fine woodwork, countertops, cabinets and wood flooring. Insured and licensed. 941-722-8792.

CONCRETE FUSION: #1 in crack repair, sidewalks, driveways. Don’t replace 95 percent of good concrete if only five percent is cracked. Free estimates. Fully insured. Call Bobby, 319693-8800 or 941-374-7670.

BLINDS, SHUTTERS, SHADES: Motorization. 30 years on AMI. Call Keith Barnett, Barnett Blinds, 941-730-0516.

FOR RENT (SUMMER at the beach). Anna Maria Island updated five-star condo - available May to November. (Monthly with multimonth discount) Million-dollar water view, first floor, 2BR/2BA, beautiful water view deck, walk to beach, pool, tennis (smoke free). 570-239-0431. Email now: rentamiwaterview@aol.com.

BUFFALUAU (TM). BEST PARTIES. Contact 716560-7841 or buffaluau@gmail.com for details. Or visit buffaluau.com. YAY! WE ARE open for business to serve our Seniors with dignity, compassion and our hearts. Here at Knowledgeable Care LLC we strive to accommodate with the assistance you may need. You and your family are important to us, so please don’t hesitate to call. 23-plus years. Thank you, Tammy, owner. Phone, 941-5678499. API’S DRYWALL REPAIR: I look forward to servicing your drywall repair needs. Call 941-5248067 to schedule an appointment. BUSINESS-TO-BUSINESS JD’s Window Cleaning looking for storefront jobs in Holmes Beach. I make dirty windows sparkling clean. 941-9203840. BEACH SERVICE air conditioning, heat, refrigeration. Commercial and residential service, repair and/or replacement. Serving Manatee County and the Island since 1987. For dependable, honest and personalized service, call Bill Eller, 941-795-7411. CAC184228.

LAWN & GARDEN CONNIE’S LANDSCAPING INC. Residential and commercial. Full-service lawn maintenance, landscaping, cleanups, hauling and more! Insured. 941-778-5294. BARNES LAWN AND Landscape LLC. Design and installation, lawn and landscape services, tree trimming, mulch, rock and shell. 941-7051444. Jr98@barneslawnandlandscape.com. COLLINS LANDSCAPE LIGHTING: Outdoor lighting, landscaping, irrigation services and maintenance. 941-279-9947. MJC24373@gmail.com. SEARAY SPRINKLER SERVICES. Repairs, additions, drip, sprinkler head/timer adjustments. 941-920-0775. TREES BY BREEZE INC. Established and island resident since 1989. Property maintenance, landscapes and tree trimming. Insured. “What’s said is good as done.” 941-704-2714.

ISLAND HANDYMAN: I live here, work here, value your referral. Refinish, paint. Just ask. JayPros. Licensed/insured. References. Call Jay, 941-9622874.

HANDYMAN AND PAINTING. No job too small. Most jobs just right. Call Richard Kloss. 941-204-1162. HANDYMAN AND CLEANING services. Move-ins and outs. Affordable. Call Fred, 941-356-1456.

HOLLANDS PAINT, DRYWALL and handyman services: Interior/exterior paint, drywall repair, wall/ceiling textures, stucco repair, pressure washing. Over 25 years’ experience. All work guaranteed. References. Licensed/insured. Call Dee, 256-337-5395. SCREENING SERVICES: Replace your old or ripped window, door or porch screens. Window and door screen repair. Many screen types available. Retired veteran here to serve our community! Free estimates, call Lane, 941-705-5293. SOUTHWEST HOME IMPROVEMENT: Michigan builder, quality work guaranteed. Affordable, timely, within budget. Call Mike’s cell: 1-616-2048822 or home: 941-896-5770.

RENTALS ANNA MARIA GULF beachfront vacation rentals. One- two- and three-bedroom units, all beachfront. www.amiparadise.com. 941-778-3143.

PROFESSIONAL OFFICE FOR rent. 5203 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. Phone 941-794 8202, leave message if no answer.

SUMMER ON AMI! Monthly rental May 15-Sept.15. Cozy 2BR/2BA, five minutes to beach, no pool. 941-778-8299.

PERICO ISLAND PATIO home for rent. 3BR/2BA, two-car garage, fully renovated. 30-day minimum. Privacy fence/gate. Two miles to AMI. #bluerockingchair instagram/ fb. 859-771-6423. REAL ESTATE WINNIE MCHALE, REALTOR, 941-504-6146. Rosebay International Realty Inc. You need an aggressive and experienced Realtor in today’s market! Selling island homes, Sarasota and Bradenton areas. Multi-million-dollar producer! “Selling Homes - Making Dreams Come True.”

Landscape Design Lawn Care Cleanups Stone Paths Licensed and Insured

Bed: A bargain!

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

AMI TAXI

professional, metered, on-call, gps, cards accepted www.amitaxi.com • amitaxi4u@gmail.com holmes beach, bradenton beach, anna maria

941-447-8372 airports • shops • dining

TE M P ORAR Y L I V ING ! A V AI L A B L E A p r i l t h r o u g h D e c e m b e r, $2,300 month. Completely furnished includes all utilities. 2BR/2BA. Two miles from island, conveniently located off Cortez Road. 941-773-1552.

PLEASE, TAKE NOTE! 527 56TH ST., HOLMES Beach. 3BR/2BA, furnished pool home with dock. $17,500 a month plus electric. Pool, lawn, water, garbage and Wi-Fi included. $2,000 deposit along with first and last month rent. 941-778-6696.

We do the wash! Airbnb & Commercial Accounts.

$YDLODEOH $We

HOME IMPROVEMENT VAN-GO PAINTING residential/commercial, interior/exterior, pressure cleaning, wallpaper. Island references. Bill, 941-795-5100. www.vangopainting.net.

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

Place classified ads online at islander.org

The Islander has moved! The “best news on AMI” has purchased and relocated to a condo ofﬁce. We’re now across from HB City Hall and behind the Ugly Grouper. You’ll ﬁnd us at 315 58th St., Holmes Beach. So stop by and check out our new, groovy digs. We’re ready to serve you! Same phone and email. The island’s best news for 29 years! 941.778.7978 news@islander.org

315 58TH ST., HOLMES BEACH 941.778.7978 • WWW.ISLANDER.ORG

Page 26 THE ISLANDER | islander.org March 23, 2022 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

BizCal

Compiled by Kane Kaiman

MarketWatch Staff report

Other events Save the dates

Anna Maria

April 7, Longboat Key Chamber 62nd Annual Membership and Median listing home price: $2.4 million. Thursday, March 24 Awards Meeting, chamber office, Longboat Key. Median sold home price: $2.3 million. 5-7 p.m. — Business card exchange and scholarship awards May 24, Longboat Key Chamber Business After Hours, ChubCurrent listings: 39 homes, $459,000-$10.8 milpresentation; LaPensee Plumbing, Pools and Air; 401 Manatee Ave., by’s Lounge, Longboat Key. lion. Holmes Beach.. Info, RSVP: longboatkeychamber.com, 941-383-2466. Homes, on average, sold for the asking price in

AMI Chamber

Save the dates

PropertyWatch Carol Bernard

April 14, luncheon, Pesto Bistro and Wine, Bradenton. April 28, business card exchange and Anna Maria Historical Society scholarship awards, AMIHS museum, Anna Maria. May 13, AMI Chamber 23rd Annual Golf Tournament, IMG Compiled by Island Real Estate staff. Island Real Academy Golf Club, Bradenton. Estate sales professionals can be reached at 941Info, RSVP: 941-778-154, info@amichamber.org 778-6066, islandreal.com.

Island real estate transactions is on vacation this week.

INTRODUCING...

MIKE NORMAN REALTY EST. 1978

Olivia Vitale, a lifelong resident of Anna Maria Island, ready to help you with all your real estate needs. Call Olivia to inquire about new listing opportunities.

February. Bradenton Beach Median listing home price: $995,000. Median sold home price: $505,000. Current listings: 34 homes, $329,000-$5.6 million. Homes, on average, sold for the asking price in February. Holmes Beach Median listing home price: $1.4 million. Median sold home price: $1.1 million. Current listings: 60 homes, $79,000-$12.9 million. Homes, on average, sold for the asking price in February. Source: Realtor.com

MORGAN LEWIS REALTY

413 Pine Ave. Anna Maria

Decades of island experience … the call that could save you thousands! Call Mark, 941-518-6329

OLIVIA VITALE A.M.I. Beaches Real Estate Old Florida With a New Twist

morganlewisrealty@gmail.com BK620023 Mark Kimball CGC58092

annamariaislandrealty.com Cell 941.718.1308

DIRECT BEACHFRONT CONDO Exceptional views of the beach from this updated 2BR/2BA unit in the Anna Maria Island Club. Complex offers a secure entrance, covered parking, elevator, heated pool, Jacuzzi AND storage in the carport. Selling turn-key furnished. $1,175,000

34!9).' ). ! 6!#!4)/. 2%.4!, #URIOUS OF THE INCOME IT GENERATES #ALL US

UN - COLOR - 2X2 165630 09-15-21Christina EDS McNaught, 941-266-9530

John McNaught 407-970-4502 419 Pine Ave., Anna Maria FL 34216

RENOVATED HOME STEPS TO BEACH… Gorgeous, recently renovated 3BR/2BA home just a quick walk to the beach. This fantastic property offers turn-key furnishings, a heated pool, multiple outdoor entertaining spaces and plenty of parking. $2,300,000

Mike Norman Realty INC OFFERING THE BEST SELECTION OF SALES & RENTALS ON ANNA MARIA ISLAND SINCE 1978 www.mikenormanrealty.com 31o1 Gulf Drive, Hholmes Beach 800-367-1617 | 941-778-6696

DIRECT BEACHFRONT HOME… Panoramic views of the beach from this 3BR/2.5BA home located directly on the Gulf of Mexico. Views of the beach from ALL three bedrooms. Selling turn-key furnished. $4,200,000

Mike Norman Realty INC

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

We like likes facebook.com/ Islandernewspaper

RELEASE DATE: 3/20/2022

New York Times Sunday Magazine Crossword

March 23, 2022 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 27 No. 0313 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

PARLOR TRICK BY MATTHEW STOCK AND WILL NEDIGER / EDITED BY WILL SHORTZ Matthew Stock works for a math-education nonprofit in East St. Louis, Ill. Will Nediger, of London, Ontario, is a professional crossword constructor. As fans of each other’s work, they connected via the online “puzzleverse.” They still have not met or even spoken together over video. The original idea for this puzzle was Matthew’s. Together they developed the theme via Twitter direct messages, then exchanged grids back and forth until they got one they were both happy with. — W.S.

AC RO SS

1 ‘‘Bon ____!’’ 8 ‘‘See ya later!’’ 13 It covers more than 30 percent of the earth’s surface 20 Donna ____, member of Bill Clinton’s cabinet 21 Klein who wrote the best seller ‘‘This Changes Everything: Capitalism vs. the Climate’’ 22 Desert whose soil has been compared with that of Mars 23 Biting writings 24 Breakfast treat 25 Persuades a customer to pay more 26 ‘‘Or so’’ 27 Much of a delivery person’s income 29 Makes a choice 31 Hoppin’ 32 Prearranged 33 Suffix with official 34 Nickel found in a pocket, say 35 Actor Barinholtz of ‘‘The Mindy Project’’ 36 Classic Camaro 38 ____ K. Smith, poet who won a Pulitzer for ‘‘Life on Mars’’ Online subscriptions: Today’s puzzle and more Answers: than 4,000 past puzzles, nytimes.com/crosswords page 28 ($39.95 a year).

40 Cosmetic that can be applied with a brush 42 Neighbors of exclamation marks 43 ‘‘La Dolce ____’’ 45 Stuffed one’s face 47 Bump on a frog 49 Question regarding a mic 51 Hubbub 52 One of the Blues Brothers 55 Above criticism 56 Question from the befuddled 57 Syrian city with a historic citadel 58 What ‘‘10’’ can mean 60 Extra 62 Rolled one’s r’s, say 63 Linguistic unit 64 Giraffe’s closest living relative 65 Deb ____, secretary of the interior starting in 2021 66 Opposite of ’neath 67 Regarding 69 Exams for some future clerks: Abbr. 71 Cold open? 72 Hang out on a line 73 U.K. award bestowed by the queen 74 West Coast news inits. 75 Blunder 76 They cast lots 78 ‘‘Love covers a multitude of ____’’: I Peter 4:8 79 Lawn material

82 Something’s essential aspect . . . or what’s spelled out by letters in this puzzle’s eight ‘‘cups’’ 87 Comedian Margaret 90 2011 film for which Octavia Spencer won a Best Supporting Actress Oscar 92 It takes blades to blades 93 Deal 95 Like the consonants ‘‘t’’ and ‘‘d’’ 97 Eject forcefully 98 Records request inits. 99 ____ history 101 Utah’s state flower 102 Org. that sets permissible exposure limits 103 Karaoke instruction . . . or what to do starting at 10-Down 109 P.R. consultant on ‘‘Ted Lasso’’ 110 Start playing for pay 111 Into really small pieces 112 Scott who sued for his freedom 113 Afford, casually 114 Add salt to, say

4 Name that’s 6-Down backward 5 Save it for a rainy day! 6 La Corse, par exemple 7 Brewery employee 8 Comb through 9 Bubs 10 Worker’s ‘‘on vacation’’ inits. 11 ‘‘Actually, I disagree’’ 12 Rococo painter of ‘‘Allegory of the Planets and Continents’’ 13 They might be pregnant 14 Organic energy compound, for short 15 ‘‘Mi ____ es su ____’’ 16 Part of a cold compress 17 Become clear . . . or make like the object represented by the circled letters 18 ‘‘So then my response was . . . ’’ 19 Hereditary divisions 28 Physicist Newton 30 Loyalty that’s pledged 37 Lemonlike fruit 38 Big rigs 39 ‘‘Well, fine then’’ 40 Age beautifully, informally 41 Cuss out DOWN 42 Big Brother’s creator 1 Home of St. Clare 44 Pink pad on a paw, in slang 2 Starfleet weapon 46 The Lord, in the 3 Election night Hebrew Bible calculation . . . or what’s traced by the 48 Start of a simple request circled letters

37 43

39 45

57 61

85 93

100

49 Roly-poly, scientifically 50 ____ torte (Austrian cake) 53 Warm-up act 54 Move shakily 59 Ross Perot founded it in 1995 60 Lack of engagement 61 More wacky 62 ‘‘You’re just assuming’’ 68 It’s blown in the winds

101 105

110 112

104 109

71 75

103

73 76

35 41

63 66

55 58

38 44

106

102

107

108 111

113

70 Showed off one’s pipes 77 Airport with a Harvey Milk terminal: Abbr. 78 Harry Styles tune about a woman who ‘‘lives in daydreams’’ 79 Lines of notes 80 Sight line? 81 Cooked with hot seasoning 82 Prefix with -lithic 83 Not against the rules

114

84 It’s under @ on a keyboard 85 ____ lodge 86 Rowing machine, informally 87 Event for moving vehicles 88 Super 89 Actress Tatum 91 Folk medicine practitioner 94 Foolish sort 96 Sports fan’s cheer

97 Universal Human Rights Mo. 100 Ability to sustain long-term interest 101 Kiss, in Kent 104 Sports fan’s cheer 105 Gift wrapper’s final touch 106 Nail-polish brand 107 Buffet table item 108 Zoo animal whose name rhymes with ‘‘zoo’’

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

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