The Islander Newspaper E-Edition: Wednesday, June 23, 2021 by The Anna Maria Islander Newspaper

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JUNE 23, 2021 Free

NO. 35

The Best news on anna maria Island Since 1992 Astheworldterns. 6 cell tower panel falls to BB marina. 2

Q&A 062321

islander.org

Mighty Moose makeover

Budget talks. 4

Meetings. 4 cortez stilt-house benefits from pen pals. 5

Opinions. 6 10-20 YeARs Ago

Looking back. 7

HB mayor says algae removal not needed. 8 confirmed: Independence day parade is July 3. 9

Save the date. 10

artist chad “cheeta” Ruis, above, signals June 10 to onlookers from a lift as he takes on a high section of his underwater scene at the moose Lodge in Bradenton Beach. Right: The gulf drive facing wall. more, page 11. Islander Photos: Kelsey mako

Rotary announces ame honors. 12

cortez Bridge lawsuit enters new phase, clock starts for BB

Top notch entries welcome. 12 Journey to the center. 13

Streetlife. 14 storm ready. 15 Where’s Tuna Street?

16-17

Gathering. 18

Obituaries. 18 Saluting Flag day. 19 disney honors dolphin researchers. 21

NESTING NOTES.

Pressing for manatee protections. 23 Soccer finals set. 24 Red tide persists. 24 Summer angling. 25 Tdc celebrating island businessman. 27

CLASSIFIEDS. 28 cortez tiny-home developer breaks ground. 30

PropertyWatch. 30

NYT puzzle.

By Kane Kaiman Islander Reporter

Is Bradenton Beach willing to cross this bridge? A group challenging the Florida Department of Transportation’s decision to replace the 17-foot-clearance Cortez drawbridge with a 65-foot-clearance fixed-span megabridge has reached an agreement with the agency on the draft administrative record, a more than 6,000-page document detailing how the department came to its decision to build the high bridge. The coalition — which lodged a 47-page complaint against the fixed-span bridge in federal court in 2020 — signed off on the DOT record June 17.

Should the suit reach the summary judgment phase, a federal magistrate will review the finalized record, along with written arguments from both parties, before ruling. According to former Manatee County Commissioner Joe McClash, who spearheads the anti-megabridge group, the DOT is expected to file the finalized record soon with the court. Once filed, a 45-day clock will start on the city of Bradenton Beach to join the lawsuit. The city has flirted with joining McClash, Jane von Hahmann, also a former county commissioner and a Cortez resident, and Linda Molto and Joe Kane, Cortez residents, to become the fifth anti-megabridge

complainant. The coalition is advocating for the construction of a 35-foot-clearance drawbridge to replace the 17-foot bascule bridge, which was built and opened to traffic in 1957, spanning the Intracoastal Waterway and connecting Cortez on the mainland to Bradenton Beach on Anna Maria Island. Bradenton Beach commissioners and the mayor unanimously voted March 18 to direct city attorney Ricinda Perry to coordinate with outside counsel to join the suit and allocated up to $15,000 for legal costs. On April 8, Perry communicated to the commission that the case could eventually cost the city six figures and commissioners TuRn To Bridge, Page 2

shots by the shore returning June 24 medical professionals inoculate people with the oneshot Johnson & Johnson coVId-19 vaccine June 17 under tents at a pop-up clinic at the manatee Public Beach, 4000 gulf drive, Holmes Beach. The city will host another pop-up vaccine clinic 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Thursday, June 24, at the location. no documentation is required for adults aged 18 and over to receive the vaccine. For more information about vaccination against the coronavirus, go to mymanatee.org. Islander Photo: Ryan Paice

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Cell tower panel plummets on marina, owner seeks protection By Kelsey mako Islander Reporter

Watch out below! A panel falling from a cell tower June 15 — not the first such incident — prompted concern from a Bradenton Beach business owner and city action. Mike Bazzy, owner of the Bradenton Beach Marina at 402 Church St., adjacent to the cell tower site wrote asking for help June 15, expressing his concerns. The panel fell, he said, about 100 feet northeast of the tower in a walkway in the marina boatyard. The 12-by-4 foot panel is made of heavy plastic, a nylon composite and stainless steel fittings. The tower is at 403 Highland Ave. This was the sixth incident of a panel falling from the tower, according to Bazzy. a cell tower in Bradenton Beach near the city public works building is missing a panel June 15. Islander Photo: Kelsey mako

In early April 2015, a panel fell and landed on public works property. On April 27, 2015, a panel fell and landed in front of the marina office. On Sept. 10, 2015, multiple panels fell, landing on a boat at the marina, on Bazzy’s southern property line and two on Church Avenue. On two other occasions, a panel put a hole through the roof of the public works building and another panel landed on property at 302 Church Ave. “We’ve had several near misses over the years,” Bazzy said. “How long will we continue to accept this hazard?” The cell facility is owned by SBA Communications, which leases the tower property from the city. City attorney Ricinda Perry said public works director Tom Woodard and Mayor John Chappie have

asked a representative how SBA plans to address the problem. SBA Communications said they plan to use a drone to check for a deficiency in the tower construction, as well as hire an engineering expert to review the panels. Additionally, SBA plans to use hurricane tape and clips to address any imminent hazards. Woodard said he asked SBA not to reinstall the fallen panel. Florida Tower Partners constructed the tower in September 2014. Florida Tower Partners also constructed a tower in Anna Maria at city hall. For now, the tower neighbors are on lookout.

Bridge conTInued FRom Page 1

voted 4-1 to reduce its allocation to $5,000. Perry met with DOT representatives behind closed doors April 16 for informal negotiations with the agency. McClash maintains that legal costs to the city would be minimal, because outside representation would only need to review the coalition’s documentation. Perry said June 15 that attorneys are required by the Florida Bar rules to defend their clients zealously, meaning outside counsel would need to review the 6,000-page administrative record in addition to all other case materials. “The attorney that I spoke with was uncomfortable not performing the necessary due diligence and review of the file to intelligently address the issues. He’s not going to work on the case halfheartedly,” she said. The city has made progress in its settlement negotiations with the DOT, Perry said, providing the agency with pricing for undergrounding utilities within the

The cortez Bridge — slated to be replaced by a 65-footclearance fixed-span bridge in 2026-27 — opens June 9 for a yacht. Islander Photo: Bonner Joy

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Wait continues for Holmes Beach v. treehouse By Ryan Paice Islander Reporter

A judge’s ruling could bring Holmes Beach’s eight-year treehouse case to an end. But it will take time for a decision to be rendered. Jay Daigneault, the city’s attorney on the case, told The Islander June 18 that a ruling on the city’s motion to dismiss Richard Hazen and Lynn Tran-Hazen’s claims against it and the Florida Department of Environmental Protection could take some time. “Sometimes it takes two hours and sometimes it takes two years,” Daigneault said. “The court is not really under a strict timeline.” The case began in 2011, when the property owners built the treehouse in an Australian pine tree beyond the state erosion control line and without a permit on their beachfront property at 103 29th St., Holmes Beach. The Hazens reside at the property, where they operate four adjacent vacation rental units as Angelinos Sea Lodge. The city found the structure in violation of its land development code and moved for its removal in 2013, sparking litigation with the owners. Bridge continued from page 2

scope of the bridge project. The city also plans to provide the DOT with pricing for the construction of a sidewalk between the intersection of Cortez Road and Gulf Drive and the Gulf Drive Cafe, 900 Gulf Drive N., Bradenton Beach — an undertaking outside the project limits. Other city objectives include modifications to the multi-use path that runs along Bridgeport Condominiums and under the bridge and the trimming of Australian Pines at the intersection of Cortez Road and Gulf Drive. The next informal settlement conference could be held as soon as June 25, Perry said.

Q&A 062321

The Islander poll

Last week’s question The Center of Anna Maria hosted Steve Augeri of Journey fame at an outdoor concert June 17. What’s the best Journey song? 68%. “Don’t Stop Believin’” 9%. “Wheel in the Sky” 7%. “Lights” 7%. “Lovin,’ Touchin,’ Squeezin’” 9%. Other

Lynn Tran-Hazen asks people to avoid trespassing on her property in 2014. Islander File Photo

Hazen and Tran-Hazen have been on the losing end of each ruling after several lawsuits and appeals in circuit court over the years since. The U.S. Supreme Court also has denied two petitions to review the case. Litigation has so far cost the city $184,955 and the property owners $170,000, according to the parties. However, the property owners have received more than $105,000 in code violation fines from the city, which are still owed as of June 18. Now, only one circuit court case remains. The property owners filed claims in January seeking declaratory and injunctive relief against the city and FDEP, as well as compensation for damages. The city and DEP filed motions to dismiss the property owners’ claims in February, and the parties met June 9 to discuss the motions. At the hearing, 12th Circuit Judge Charles Sniffen said he would issue a ruling by the end of that week, but there was no ruling as of June 18. Additionally, no further hearings to discuss the

Vincent Gollamudi, 8, a rising fourth-grader at AME, shows the autograph he and his mother obtained from Steve Augeri for his big sister, Sheema, a big fan of Journey and “Don’t Stop Believin.’” Islander Photo: Nenita “Mom” Daguinotas

This week’s question Americans celebrate Independence Day July 4. Who inked your favorite signature on the Declaration of Independence? A. John Hancock B. Thomas Jefferson C. Benjamin Franklin D. John Adams E. Other To take the poll, go online to islander.org. case are scheduled, according to the Manatee County Clerk of Court. Tran-Hazen has previously said that the property owners were considering waving the white flag by removing the treehouse, but could not afford to pay what she termed the city’s “unjust” fines.

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BB undergrounding project cost skyrockets By Kelsey mako Islander Reporter

Rising costs continue to bring down optimism for Bradenton Beach’s effort to underground utilities along Gulf Drive. Florida Power and Light Co. reduced its cost for undergrounding by $40,000 since a city commission meeting June 3, but city officials continue to look for funding for the project, which involves burying utility lines along Gulf Drive. The purpose of the project is to improve resiliency, protecting lines from damage during storms, as well as to improve aesthetics along the designated scenic highway. Bradenton Beach commissioners unanimously passed a motion to authorize Mayor John Chappie to sign under protest the most recent binding cost estimate from FPL. Bradenton Beach owed FPL $856,836 June 3, and $811,000 as of June 17. FPL’s binding cost came in at 330% above its May 17 projected cost, according to city attorney Ricinda Perry, the city-appointed manager for the project. The cost April 16 was put at $365,984 but the original cost was $1,187,929. The changes were the result of FPL calculations. Perry said 25% of the $811,000 would be paid by June 30, another 25% would be paid by mid-October and the final 50% by mid-December. Perry said she spoke with Jan Brewer, the director of financial management for Manatee County, who said the project qualified for concession funds, the excess revenues from concession income at Manatee Public Beach and Coquina Beach.

city attorney Ricinda Perry — project manager for the work to bury utilities in Bradenton Beach — updates city commissioners June 17 on costs for the gulf drive portion of the project. Islander Photos: Kelsey mako

The money must be applied to projects benefitting the island — and approved by the other cities. Perry said the undergrounding benefits the island because power lines were removed from two boat ramps and public parking areas in Bradenton Beach. About $298,000 in concession funds are available for the undergrounding project, according to Perry. Additionally, Perry said FPL would make a presentation on how it calculated costs. Commissioners said they did not understand why the poles that were removed cannot be reused by FPL for future projects, possibly resulting in financial credit for the city, following FPL’s zero-value rating for the poles. Construction is on track to finish by June 30, Perry said.

Bradenton Beach 2019-20 ﬁscal statements reviewed By Kelsey mako Islander Reporter

Bradenton Beach’s 2019-20 financial statements passed the auditors’ tests. Auditors Randy Dillingham and Jeff Gerhard reviewed Bradenton Beach’s city and community redevelopment agency 2019-20 financial statements June 17 with commissioners. The city’s fiscal year runs Oct. 1-Sept. 30. There were no difficulties performing the audits and city financial statements were accurate, Dillingham said. “Overall, a good set of financial statements,” Gerhard said. Bradenton Beach’s total fund balance, which is what the city carries into the next fiscal year, was $1,258,248. The city ended the 2019-20 fiscal year with $1,519,294 in assets and $195,283 in liabilities. The total fund balance is divided into four parts: restricted committed, assigned and unassigned. About 19% of total fund expenditures are designated as unassigned and about 28% are designated as committed. Committed funds can be reassigned for other purposes if necessary. Unassigned or committed funds are placed in

Meetings

Anna Maria City June 24, 9 a.m., special magistrate. June 24, 6 p.m., commission. June 28, 2:30 p.m., planning and zoning. CANCELED July 8, 2 p.m., commission. July 22, 6 p.m., commission. Anna Maria City Hall, 10005 Gulf Drive, 941708-6130, cityofannamaria.com. Bradenton Beach July 7, 9 a.m., CIP. July 7, 9:30 a.m., CRA. July 15, noon, commission. Bradenton Beach City Hall, 107 Gulf Drive N., 941-778-1005, cityofbradentonbeach.com. Holmes Beach June 25, 9 a.m., contractor Q&A.

reserves. Reserves can be used during periods when ad valorem taxes are not available, as well as for unexpected expenses. Dillingham said he advises cities to allocate a minimum of 25% of the total fund balance to reserves. He added that island communities should have a slightly higher percentage in reserves, ranging from 30-35% of the total fund balance. Bradenton Beach’s general fund increased by $186,430 in 2019-20. Collecting $350,000 from a legal settlement allowed for the increase. The city had used reserves for the legal dispute in prior years. Without revenue from the settlement, the city would have drawn $164,070 from reserves in 201920, which was budgeted at $152,000. In the 2019-20 fiscal year, the city was under-budget, meaning it collected more money than anticipated by $1,470,629. The difference is due to grants budgeted but not received. So that money was not spent. Tingley Memorial Library spent $40,445 more than it collected in 2019-20 and the CRA account went down $660,010, as money was spent on improvements. Audits for the city and the CRA were similar.

July 13, 9 a.m., commission. July 14, 6 p.m., planning commission. July 15, 6 p.m., commission. July 20, 6 p.m., commission. Holmes Beach City Hall, 5801 Marina Drive, 941-708-5800, holmesbeachﬂ.org. Manatee County None announced. County administration building, 1112 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton, 941-748-4501, mymanatee. org. Also of interest July 4 is Independence Day. Most government offices will be closed July 5. — Lisa neff

Please, send meeting notices to calendar@ islander.org and news@islander.org.

equipment for the undergrounding project is staged June 7 near cortez Beach in Bradenton Beach.

BB undergrounding costs

The state awarded $2 million to Bradenton Beach to underground utilities along Gulf Drive by June 30. Here’s a look at the estimated costs: april 16 June 17 ucoF: $131,157 $99,568 Spectrum: $104,483.49 $104,483.49 Verizon: $109,054 $109,054 FPL: $365,984 $811,000 Survey: $ 20,000 $7,500 Wilco: $824,712 $824,712 Jm: $123,920 $131,920 Restoration: $35,000 $35,000 new street Lighting: $155,000 $140,000 eTc: $50,000 $25,000

budget talks HB budget workshop in July

Holmes Beach will be chiseling out a budget for the 2021-22 fiscal year soon. City commissioners will meet at 9 a.m. Tuesday, July 13, at city hall, 5801 Marina Drive, to workshop details for a new budget. They also will meet at 9 a.m. Tuesday, July 20, at city hall, to set a maximum millage rate. Commissioner Carol Soustek said June 8 she would be out of town for the first workshop, but would attend remotely since a quorum would be present at city hall. Commissioners will shift from workshopping to consideration in September, when the city will hold two public hearings to discuss a proposed budget. The city must adopt a final budget by Sept. 30. The city’s current $16,636,011 budget includes a 2.25 millage rate on property valued at $2.18 billion in 2020. — Ryan Paice

DeSantis approves $750K allocation to Holmes Beach

State funding for flood prevention improvements in Holmes Beach survived a final round of line-item vetoes. Gov. Ron DeSantis approved a final appropriations bill June 2 that includes $750,000 from $116.6 million available from the state for nonrecurring water projects to fund stormwater drainage improvements in the city. The money will be used to install stormwater drainage and filtration improvements along unspecified roadways to prevent flooding and reduce pollutants to waterways. The project is estimated to be completed by June 2022. The project was the only major island-based allocation approved by the state this year since Bradenton Beach’s request for $750,000 to improve drainage and bury utility lines along Gulf Drive was not included in the final appropriations bill. — Ryan Paice

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Cortez stilt-house support letters prove effective By Kane Kaiman Islander Reporter

Is the pen mightier than the gavel? A motion filed May 11 in 12th Judicial Circuit Court for a 90-day stay of enforcement on Judge Edward Nicholas’ final order that Raymond “Junior” Guthrie’s stilt-house be removed from the waters of Cortez had not been acted on as of The Islander’s press time June 21. The motion, filed by Guthrie’s attorney, Robert Schermer, seeks an extension to a 60-day stay of enforcement — which has expired. Schermer said June 16 that he had communicated with the Florida Department of Environmental Protection — Guthrie’s opposition — about a hearing on the motion. For now, the DEP is taking no action on the motion, Schermer said, to allow Guthrie to move forward with plans to transfer ownership of the structure to a nonprofit and make the stilt-house appear to be more historic. The plans were outlined in the motion and in April letters of support from local officials and state legislators addressed to DEP Secretary Noah Valenstein. The nonprofit had not been created as of June 16 and information about the organization and its plans to change the appearance of the house could not be obtained. In 2017, Guthrie built the 1,200-foot structure — complete with electricity, sliding-glass doors and other amenities — on what he maintains are ancestral pilings in the water yards off the A.P. Bell Fishing Co. docks in Cortez. The DEP successfully sued Guthrie for building the stilt-house on state-owned submerged lands with-

The cortez waterfront lies beyond the house on pilings built in 2017 by “Junior” guthrie. Islander File Photo: Kane Kaiman

out permits or a lease, prompting Nicholas to issue a demolition order. Guthrie maintains the structure is a historic net camp and Manatee County commissioners and the state legislators that comprise the Manatee County Delegation agree. Net camps were barren shacks built over the water in the 19th century to house cotton fishing nets and other gear. They became obsolete with the advent of monofilament nets. An April 15 letter to the DEP from the Manatee board of commissioners characterizes the structure as a “Net Camp replica” that should be protected to maintain Cortez’s historical legacy.

BBPD steps up noise complaint enforcement By Kelsey mako Islander Reporter

The Bradenton Beach Police Department is dialing down the volume. Lt. John Cosby, designated to become chief in October, described plans for enhanced noise ordinance enforcement June 17 to city commissioners — in response to residents’ concerns about the continuation of an open-air dining policy in Bradenton Beach. Cosby said Fred Bartizal, the Bridge Tender Inn and Dockside Bar owner and a planning and zoning board member, donated $2,000 for sound meters for each police officer. Additionally, Joe Cuervo, owner of the Drift In on Bridge Street, purchased sound meters to monitor his outdoor entertainment and the bar. Meanwhile, Cosby said the BBPD would do random noise checks at businesses, mainly in the Bridge Street area. An officer will check decibels at music venues at least once during a shift, he added. BBPD plans to work closely with code enforce-

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ment and keep a list of offenders, Cosby said. The city policy allows for seating in parking areas and on sidewalks to help businesses recover revenue lost during pandemic limitations. Entertainment is permitted with a waiver, however, entertainment is not specifically prohibited in the city code, providing noise does not exceed the decibel level specified in the noise ordinance. Residents expressed concerns May 20 over noise and the city’s lack of enforcement of the ordinance. But Cosby said residents need to step up as complainants for officers to enforce the noise ordinance, in part because decibel readings need to be taken by police from properties with residents’ authorization. In other matters… Commissioners unanimously voted to adopt an ordinance to include a question for the electorate about term limits on the November municipal ballot. The question: “Should the city amend its charter removing term limits, while maintaining the require-

The fishing village of Cortez — bounded by Cortez Road to the north and the Intracoastal Waterway to the west — has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 1995. “Currently the net camp does not conform to state standards, however, we believe a commitment from Cortez community leaders to establish a non-profit organization pledged to the historical interpretation, facade reconstruction and subsequent maintenance of the structure will restore the net camp to its historical character,” the letter reads. Guthrie said June 15 he’s grateful for the letters. “I appreciated everybody that supported me,” he said. Bradenton Beach Police Lt. John cosby describes noise ordinance enforcement improvements to the commission June 17. Islander Photo: Kelsey mako

ment that each term shall last for two years?” Adoption followed commission discussions about the decreasing pool of qualified applicants. Language in the ordinance also allows a nonbinding question on the ballot regarding the sale and relocation of city hall and Tingley Memorial Library, following future discussions on the topic.

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Opinion

Our

What’s good for one?

You know the old saying, “What’s good for one is good for all.” It was good for a trio of musketeers and it’s often thought of when the three island cities rise to find common ground. There is, however, little good to be said when once every few years the conversation rolls around to consolidating the city governments on the island. Personally, I would have liked a pairing of Cortez and Bradenton Beach and likewise for Perico and Holmes Beach. The two mainland communities have little force when it comes to fighting government wrongs, but joining the cities that bind them — if only by bridges — could work to their advantage. Long ago when the island cities fought off the early 1990s plans by the Florida Department of Transportation to replace first the Cortez Bridge and then the Anna Maria Island Bridge with megabridges — 65-foot-clearance fixed spans — the cities joined together with votes on the transportation planning board and resolutions aimed at the governor in opposition to the DOT plans. For a time, the battle separated the goose from the gander — but people came around. The megabridges just didn’t fit the character of our low-key, easy going Old Florida communities. Now we see a small group of people fighting off yet another push from the DOT to replace the Cortez Bridge with a megaspan. And why should they be left to fight alone? After all, we see often from example that a fender bender or a lane closure in any of the three island cities, a sudden afternoon thunderstorm at one end of the island or a crash on any of the bridges can snarl traffic and cause havoc for hours on local roads and bridges — nearly all the way to downtown Bradenton. We also see that a wide ramp for the bridge will wipe out the west end of the quaint, historic village of Cortez — believe me, it won’t ever be the same — and traffic will dump into Bradenton Beach from the short, high crossing, taking up valuable land with retention ponds and driving a path through the city for people and workers traveling across the doormat to Longboat Key. Walkers and bicyclists will face a huge challenge. I sincerely hope the city of Bradenton Beach will side with its residents and fight the DOT on the 65-foot megabridge, to maintain the easy-going lifestyle they have long fought to preserve and join the four stalwart citizens in their proposal for a compromise. IMHO, if one person, one city, one community is to be accountable, so should we all. To do otherwise would be hypocrisy. Let’s show the DOT that together we’re a force to be reckoned with. We’re one community. — Bonner Joy, news@islander.org

JUNE 23, 2021 • Vol. 29, No. 35 Publisher, Co-editor Bonner Joy, news@islander.org ▼ Editorial editor Lisa neff, lisa@islander.org Joe Bird, editorial cartoonist Kevin cassidy, kevin@islander.org Jack elka, jack@jackelka.com Kane Kaiman, kane@islander.org Kelsey mako, kelsey@islander.org amy V.T. moriarty, amym@islander.org Ryan Paice, ryan@islander.org ▼ Contributors Johann Bertram Karen Riley-Love capt. danny Stasny, fish@islander.org ▼ 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

Trolling for tourists

I recently met a newly married couple who trailered their boat several hundred miles to fish and honeymoon in Anna Maria. They sucked up dead weed in Tampa Bay and about cooked the engine. The vacation brochure failed to mention toxic sludge as part of the trip. They could have saved money by staying at a resort in New Jersey downwind from a landfill — similar ambience but healthier. How about the tourist bureau spending money cleaning up the waterways instead of trolling for more victims? Douglas Gelderman, Anna Maria

Skimming online …

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Have your say

The Islander accepts original letters of up to 250 words and reserves the right to edit for grammar and length. Letters must include name, address and a contact phone number (for verification). Anonymous letters will not be printed. Please, email news@islander.org.

Shady spot on the shore “His mama didn’t raise a fool,” reader Laura gallagher wrote about this shade-seeking great blue heron. Islander courtesy Photo

In the archives

Take a trip back in time with The Islander in the Florida digital newspaper collection. There’s 29 years, the complete collection, online at ufdc.ufl.edu.

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10&20 years ago

Sunbathing by the Gulf The postcard, dated 1938 and from curt Teich & co./Florida Postcard co., depicts “bathing in the gulf of mexico” in Bradenton Beach. Islander Photos: manatee county Public Library System

an H.R. Smith aerial photo taken prior to 1950 looks west toward the gulf of mexico. The view includes the original 1922 cortez Bridge, which crossed the bay, connecting anna maria Island to the mainland via cortez Road.

In the June 21, 2001, issue

• Supporters of the Tidemark development in Holmes Beach wore daisies pinned to their shirts to the city commission’s first reading of an ordinance to approve developer Nick Easterling’s hotel/condominium/marina project. More than 80 people attended the meeting. • Anna Maria commissioners unanimously approved former Commissioner George McKay as the city’s new public works director and building official following the departure of Bob Welch for the same positions in Bradenton Beach. Mayor Gary Deffenbaugh said McKay had received a temporary building official’s certificate from the state. • Anna Maria Vice Mayor Tom Skoloda and Holmes Beach Police Lt. Dale Stephenson asked the Holmes Beach commission to consider putting a skate park on city property. Mayor Carol Whitmore said she wanted a monetary commitment from the other two island cities.

In the June 22, 2011, issue

• Bradenton Beach officials were coordinating the design of new gateway signs at Coquina Beach with the Manatee County Parks and Recreation Department, which planned the signs. • The Anna Maria Island Community Response Team was seeking volunteers to undergo training and assist in an emergency situation. • The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission recommended delisting 16 species, including some found on or near Anna Maria Island, such as the brown pelican, snowy egret and white ibis. — Lisa neff

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HB mayor says algae removal not needed By Ryan Paice Islander Reporter

out.

Some things have a habit of working themselves

Holmes Beach Mayor Judy Titsworth told The Islander June 17 that despite the call for help to remove the blue-green algae, Lyngbya, from local waterways only a week before, aid is no longer needed. “I had public works go out to do an assessment and luckily we had a west wind, which took it out of our Titsworth canals,” Titsworth said. “The smell is gone for right now, so we’re just going to cross our fingers that the algae won’t grow again,” she added. Lyngbya is a naturally occurring algae in Southwest Florida waters that forms in mats on the water surface, preventing sunlight from reaching seagrasses and releasing toxins that can harm wildlife. It also emits an unpleasant odor as it decomposes, according to the University of Florida’s Center for Aquatic and

HB sets date for builder Q&A

The Holmes Beach building department is seeking public feedback. Staff from the city’s building department will host a question-and-answer forum 9 a.m-noon Friday, June 25, at city hall, 5801 Marina Drive. The forum will allow construction professionals and community members to express questions or concerns with the procedures and functions of the building department. The city began holding such forums in 2017 in an attempt to better communicate between the department and permit applicants. People with questions can visit city hall or the city’s website, www.holmesbeachfl.org, for more information. — Ryan Paice

Place portrait photo here

Invasive Plants. Little remained of the algae’s floating masses as of June 18 in Holmes Beach, but the nearshore waters remained cloudy and green-tinged. Titsworth and city commissioners called upon the county at a June 8 meeting for help removing the algae, blaming this season’s accelerated growth on polluted wastewater released from the Piney Point phosphate site earlier this year. Manatee County does not own Piney Point and did not authorize the release of the polluted wastewater, a decision that was made by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection. However, the county has led the emergency response. Titsworth said Dave Tomasko, executive director of the Sarasota Bay Estuary Program, was set to make a presentation June 22 to city commissioners about a water quality program. The SBEP is an intergovernmental partnership focused on restoring Sarasota Bay. “He’s going to give an update on the quality of water and what needs to be done to where we don’t have these issues,” Titsworth said. “We’re trying to get more in front of it than behind it.” She added that she also would be presenting a resolution to the federal, state and county governments to assist in water quality maintenance on the island. Island cities have employed a number of strategies to maintain the quality of local waterways. For example, Bradenton Beach seeded hundreds of thousands of filter-feeding clams near the shore at the city pier to purify water in the seabed. However, Titsworth said Holmes Beach would focus on improving the water quality before adding seagrasses, clams or other mitigation strategies. She said recent problems, including harmful algal blooms, would likely prevent plants from taking root or clams from effectively filtering water. “We’ve got to stop the flow of contaminates from

HB casts net wide for water quality committee Holmes Beach has been angling for months to create a Clean Water Committee. But so far, it’s gotten only two bites from potential board applicants. The city began accepting applications for 5-7 commission-based appointments to the CWC in March but had only received two as of June 18, according to city clerk Stacey Johnston. The committee will act as an advisory board for the city commission, focusing on coordinating community activity and philanthropy to improve water quality on Anna Maria Island. City commissioners have discussed creating the committee since last November and reached consensus in February to move forward and call for applications. Applicants are not required to be residents, but must be able to meet regularly. A meeting schedule for the board will be determined at its first meeting. — Ryan Paice

getting in the water before we even spend money on trying to reintroduce those species,” Titsworth said. “Everybody’s trying to throw clams in and everything, but if you still have contaminated runoff and discharges from Piney Point and sewage spills, they’re not going to thrive.” She called for the county to improve local sewage treatment operations and eliminate fertilizer runoff into the waterways. The county currently prohibits the use of nitrogenbased fertilizers June 1-Sept. 30 in an effort to reduce harmful runoff into local waterways. “Once we do that and have those things in place, then, yes — plant grasses, seed clams, plant oyster beds — try to bring all that stuff back,” Titsworth said.

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City planners recommend 2 ordinances, lose 1 member By amy V.T. moriarty Islander Reporter

Two ordinances are headed back to the city commission for hearings and votes. City planners agreed June 17 to recommend an ordinance limiting construction noise on federal holidays. “If any of these holidays falls on a Saturday, the preceding Friday shall also be observed as a holiday during which no noise is allowed. If any of these holidays falls on a Sunday, the following Monday shall also be observed as a holiday,” the ordinance reads. The draft cleared a first reading with city commissioners May 27, who then sent it to the planning and zoning board for review. There was concern that noise generated by landscapers was not included in the construction ordinance, but planners agreed 3-1 to the ordinance as written. They also agreed to workshop regulations for commercial landscaping noise on holidays. The holdout was the chair, Jose Erbella, who pointed out commercial landscapers, unlike private residents, use louder equipment and often work at multiple properties in a neighborhood in one day, prolonging the disruption. Code enforcement manager Debbie Haynes said

Stormwater project on time

With the rainy season at the doorstep, Anna Maria is undergoing a stormwater project that began in April. The Southwest Florida Water Management District is cooperating on funding for the project, including design, permitting and construction of best management practices to improve stormwater discharging to Tampa Bay, Anna Maria city clerk LeAnne Addy said June 3. Barring unforeseen delays, Addy said the project should wrap up by the end of September. — amy V.T. moriarty

BB agrees to change July 4 parade date

the city has never distinguished between commercial and private lawn maintenance. Additionally, Haynes said the Friday/Monday Bradenton Beach is following in the footsteps observation for federal holidays is set by the U.S. of Anna Maria Island’s other cities on the IndeDepartment of Personnel Management, which the city pendence Day parade. follows for its holiday schedule. City commissioners unanimously voted June Planners unanimously recommended the other 17 to allow the Anna Maria Island Privateers’ ordinance, 21-889, which pertains to mangrove proannual Independence Day parade to change from tections. July 4 to Saturday, July 3. The ordinance provides for “protection of manHolmes Beach commissioners approved the groves; adding requirements to be included in shoredate change June 9 and Anna Maria commissionline stabilization permits; adding requirements for the ers agreed June 10. construction of docking facilities; prohibiting smoking All three cities had previously approved peror vaping on or near the Anna Maria City Pier; promits for the July 4 event. viding for conflicts, codification, severability and an The change follows a request from the Rev. effective date.” Ed Moss of CrossPointe Fellowship in Holmes The Mangrove Trimming and Preservation Act Beach to change the date to avoid disrupting relienacted in 1996 by the Florida Department of Envigious services. ronmental Protection regulates trimming and altera— Kelsey mako tion of mangroves while also banning chemicals and herbicides to defoliate mangroves. City commissioners are expected to hold hearings want to be closer to family in West Virginia and Tenand vote on adopting the ordinances June 24. nessee. Muscatello announced June 10 he would resign his So long, farewell seat after a June 24 meeting. Melissa Anderson said she “appreciates the opporHe attended the P&Z meeting to assure people tunity to be on the board” and, before “Missy and I are not splitting up and I’m still alive.” the meeting closed, announced her Muscatello said after word of his resignation got resignation. out, people had a lot of questions and he realized he “It’s heartbreaking” board should be on hand when Anderson resigned. member Barbara Zdravecky said Anderson, a veteran Navy lieutenant commander of losing another member from the placed the memorial wreath at the city’s Memorial board, noting she feels it’s an uphill Day celebration May 31 along with retired Army Col. anderson battle to help set ordinances to make Sharon Wisniewski, prompting Mayor Dan Murphy to conditions favorable to attract and keep permanent ask who would place the wreath at next year’s event. residents. “The city thanks you for your contributions,” Every ordinance addressed is an attempt to miti- Murphy told Anderson. gate issues and “you guys are making a difference,” City planners will meet at 2:30 p.m. Monday, July city planner Chad Minor told the board. 19, at city hall, 10005 Gulf Drive. Anderson and her husband, City Commissioner For more information, call the clerk’s office at 941Joe Muscatello, have been residents for 11 years, but 708-6130.

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Page 10 THE ISLANDER | islander.org June 23, 2021 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

The Islander Calendar ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

compiled by Lisa neff, email calendar@islander.org.

Gulf Drive Cafe, 900 Gulf Drive N., Bradenton Beach. Information: 941-778-1383. AHEAD OFF AMI Tuesdays, noon, Rotary Club of Anna Maria Island lunch meetONGOING ON AMI July 10-Sept. 26, Marie Selby Botanical Gardens’ “We Dream A ing, in-person at Bridge Street Bistro, 111 Gulf Drive S., Bradenton Throughout June, new artists exhibits, Island Gallery West, World, African American Landscape Painters of Mid-Century Florida, Beach, and via Zoom. Information: 941-920-2505. The Highwaymen,” Sarasota. 5368 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6648. OUTDOORS & Nov. 13, Anna Maria Island Privateers Black Tie Fundraising AHEAD ON AMI SPORTS Gala to beneﬁt the Early Learning Coalition of Manatee County, Bradenton. July 2, Center of Anna Maria ONGOING OFF AMI Island’s concert series with the Grass Roots and Donnie Iris, Anna Maria. July 24, Anna Maria Island Privateers Christmas in July party, Bradenton Beach. Aug. 1, Island Player auditions for “The Savannah Sipping Society,” Anna Maria. Aug. 5-8, Anna Maria Island Privateers “Return to Tortuga: A Pirate Invasion Weekend,” Anna Maria Island. Sept. 16-26, Island Players’ performance of “The Savannah Sipping Society,” Anna Maria. Oct. 16, Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce Bayfest, Anna Maria. Nov. 4-14, Island Players’ Same Time, Next Year,” Anna Maria.

cvhs2016@aol.com, 941-538-0945.

KIDS & FAMILY

Through the summer, Bradenton Marauders baseball, ON AMI LECOM Park, 1611 Ninth St. Thursday, June 24 W., Bradenton. Fee applies. 10 a.m. — Make a unicorn Information: 941-747-3031, bracrafting, Island Library, 5701 dentonmarauders.com. Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Saturdays, 9 a.m., RobRegistration required: manateeliinson Runners, Robinson Prebrary.libcal.com/calendar. Information: 941- 778-6341. serve expansion, 840 99th St. Tuesday, June 29 NW, Bradenton. Information: 941-742-5923. 10 a.m. — Family storytime, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Saturdays, 9 a.m., Saturday Mornings at the NEST nature Holmes Beach. Registration required: manateelibrary.libcal.com/ activities and talks, Robinson Preserve expansion, 840 99th St. NW, calendar. Information: 941- 778-6341. Bradenton. Information: 941-742-5923, ecoevents@mymanatee. org. AHEAD ON AMI

July 3, Anna Maria Island Privateers Independence Day ONGOING OFF AMI Parade, islandwide. Through June 27, “Kabuki Modern,” John and Mable Ringling July 23, Island Players/ Museum of Art, 5401 Bay Shore Road, Sarasota. Fee applies. Infor- Center of Anna Maria Island mation: 941-359-5700. drama camp performances, Through June 27, “Roy Lichtenstein: Monet’s Garden Goes Anna Maria. Pop!” Mary Selby Botanical Gardens, 1534 Mound St., Sarasota. CLUBS & Fee applies. Information: 941-366-5731. Through Sept. 26, “Skyway 20/21: A Contemporary CollaboCOMMUNITY ration,” John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, 5401 Bay Shore ON AMI Road, Sarasota. Fee applies. Information: 941-359-5700. Second and fourth Saturdays, 2-4 p.m., Soupy and band Thursday, June 24 jam, Cortez Cultural Center, 11655 Cortez Road W., Cortez. Info: 10 a.m. — Seaside Quilters, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Registration required: manateelibrary.libcal.com/ calendar. Information: 941- 778-6341.

Cortez center hosts Saturday music series

The Cortez Cultural Center is bringing back “Soupy and his Band” Saturdays. The musical entertainment led by Capt. Arnold “Soupy” Shaw takes place 2-4 p.m. the second and fourth Saturdays at the center, 11655 Cortez Road W., Cortez. A news release said the entertainer is known “far and wide” for his talent on the fiddle. Musicians are invited to join the jam at the FISH Preserve on the east side of the fishing village. And audience members are encouraged to bring a chair and sunbrella. For more, email the Cortez Village Historical Society at cvhs2016@aol.com or call 941-538-0945.

GOOD TO KNOW KEEP THE DATES Sunday, July 4, Independence Day. Monday, Sept. 6, Labor Day. Tuesday, Sept. 7, autumnal equinox.

Library offers prizes to summer readers

The Manatee County Public Library system offers prizes to young summer readers. Island kids ONGOING ON AMI will find registraSaturdays, June 26, July 10, July 24, Aug. 14 and Aug. 28, tion materials — 8:30 a.m., Kiwanis Club of Anna Maria Island breakfast and meeting, and books — at the Island Library, 5701 Marina Kiwanis sets summer dates Drive, Holmes Beach. The Kiwanis Club of Anna Maria The program — Tales with Tails continues through Island set its schedule for the summer. July 31. The club will meet at 8:30 a.m. at Children can earn prizes for time spent reading, the Gulf Drive Cafe, 900 Gulf Drive N., including a free book and entry into a raffle drawing Bradenton Beach, on the following Satfor reading at least 24 hours this summer. urdays: June 26, July 10, July 24, Aug. For more information, call the library at 941-77814 and Aug. 28. 6341 or go online to mymanatee.org. For more information, call Sandy Haas-Martens at 941-778-1383.

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Artist puts heart on Moose Lodge walls By Kelsey Mako Islander Reporter

A masterpiece was developing at the Moose. Artist Chad Ruis, who refers to himself as “Cheeta,” planned to finish a water-themed mural at the Anna Maria Island Moose Lodge, 110 Gulf Drive S., Bradenton Beach, the week ending June 20. The mural raises awareness about problems occurring in oceans and on beaches and the need to protect those areas, Ruis said. The mural includes marine animals, as well as dying coral. Ruis said he is thinking about calling the mural “The Circle of Life.” “I’m a surfer and I’m an artist. That’s my life. So, the ocean, the reef, it’s all my inspiration,” he said. Ruis began work on the new mural in mid-April. But Moose member Byron Dalton said the art project dates back six or seven years, when Ruis painted a mural featuring a moose on the old lodge building. About 14 months ago, during a renovation of the lodge kitchen, the wall and mural were damaged. So, Ruis set out to repaint his original mural on the east wall and begin work on the water-themed mural on the building’s south wall. “I’ve been waiting for years to repaint the new

building,” Ruis said. “It was my dream to paint this and to resurrect it.” Ruis said he paints freestyle. “This is all just out of my mind. I don’t draw. I don’t trace. I did a very vague sketch. I just look at the wall and I think, and I study the corals and the ocean. I just go from my mind to the wall,” he said. “We let him use his imagination. He is incredible,” Dalton said. Ruis’ painting career began on the island. After working in graphic design for 18 years, he got tired of the computer and the rush to complete jobs. Ruis, originally from Plant City, moved to the island in 2010 and started an art studio out of his home. “The island was so good to me,” he said. From 2016-20, Ruis traveled and toured, painting murals for music festivals and cities. In 2018, he went to Costa Rica and ended up staying, landing a job painting at a restaurant in Puerto Viejo. When the Moose reached out to him about the mural, he put other projects on pause. “I’m pouring my heart into the mural because Anna Maria is where it all began for me,” he said.

A section of Chad Ruis’ mural featuring dolphins and other marine life. The mural’s theme shows the importance of protecting oceans and beaches.

Dalton said he could not say what the cost of the mural is but Ruis charges $15-$40 per square foot, depending on the work. For more about the artist, go to Cheeta Art on Facebook or @ArtByCheeta on Instagram. For more about the Moose, call 941-778-4110 or go online to www.moose2188.org. Artist Cheeta. Islander Photo: Courtesy Facebook

A portion of the Moose Lodge’s original mural by Cheeta, has now been refurbished and expanded. Islander Photos: Kelsey Mako

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4th, 5th graders earn high Rotary honors

Fifth-grade student cale Rudacille displays his Rotary club “Service above Self award” may 26, presented at the fifth-grade awards ceremony. cale received a plaque and $100. Islander Photos: courtesy Rotary club of amI

Congratulations! Fourth-grade student Braelyn Curtis won the annual essay contest sponsored by the Rotary Club of Anna Maria Island. The essay contest requires use of the club’s fourway test and application in a real-life situation. The Rotary test asks the following: • “Is it the truth? • “Is it fair to all concerned? • “Will it build good will and better friendships? • “Is it beneficial to all concerned?” Braelyn wrote about going to the store and buying ice cream and cookies after her mother told her to only buy what was on her shopping list. Braelyn wrote that if she had followed Rotary’s four-way test, she probably would have made better decisions. She won a plaque, as well as a $50 prize in the contest open to fourth-grade students in the 2020-21 academic year. In the past, AME staff recommended four or five essays to a club committee to select a winner, but this year the AME staff chose the winner. The winner is usually invited to a club meeting to read the essay, but COVID-19 restrictions led to changes in the contest. Also named a Rotary Club winner, Cale Rudacille was chosen by AME staff as the student who puts the needs of others above his or her own. For the honor,

he received a plaque and $100. — Kelsey mako

Fourth-grade ame student Braelyn curtis receives a plaque may 26 from Rotary club of anna maria Island president-elect Shawn Shields, left. Principal Jackie Featherston attended.

New photo contest launches July 14, enter now The Islander’s Top Notch contest begins anew. The contest celebrates what still is known as the “Kodak moment,” despite Kodak’s downfall in the switch from film to digital technology. Look to July 9 for the first deadline, including your July 4 holiday photos. The contest includes six weekly front-page winners. Each will claim an Islander “More than a mullet wrapper” T-shirt. One weekly shot will take the grand prize in the contest, earning the photographer a cash prize from The Islander and certificates from local merchants.

A pet photo winner will be announced in the final week. Look online this week for complete rules and details. Please, note, each original JPG must be included in a single email with the name of the photographer; date the photo was taken; location and description; names of recognizable people; and the address and phone number of the photographer. More rules — published online at www.islander. org — must be observed. — Bonner Joy

Top Notch

Holly avedisian of Bradenton won the first week of The Islander’s Top notch contest in 2019. Who will win the first week in the 2021 contest?

Katy Roadman of Holmes Beach won the grand prize in the 2020 Top notch contest with this photograph of cousins elijah Roadman, Jeremiah Raulerson, Isaac Roadman, Sam Raulerson and obadiah Roadman lighting sparklers July 4 on the beach. The photographer won an Islander T-shirt for being a finalist and then $100 from The Islander and gift certificates from Islander advertisers.

Judges’ Top Notch tips

• Frame your subject. • Check any horizon line. • Look for colors. • Make use of depth of field. • Seek natural light but know when to use a flash. • Move left and right, up and down for the best perspective. • Take lots of photos and, remember, only one can be the best!.

Stars and stripes salute: Penny Frick was a Top notch contest winner in 2009.

Top Notch contest rules 1) The Islander newspaper Top notch Photo contest is for amateur photographers — those who derive less than 5% of their income from photography. 2) Black-and-white and color photographs taken after Jan. 1, 2020, are eligible. Photos previously published (in any format/media) or entered in any Islander or other competition are not eligible. 3) Photographs may be taken with any camera. no retouching or alteration other than cropping is permitted; no composite or multiple print images will be accepted. only original digital photos in JPg file format are accepted. 4) The date or approximate date along with entrant’s name, address and phone number must be included in the email with the digital photo. one email per photo submission. email single entries to topnotch@islander.org. 5) entrants agree that The Islander may publish their pictures for local promotion. entrants must provide the original digital image. all images submitted become the property of The Islander. digital files will not be returned. The Islander and contest sponsors assume no responsibility for materials submitted. entrant must provide the name and address of any recognizable persons appearing in the picture with the entry. 6) employees and paid contributors to The Islander and their immediate family members are not eligible to enter the contest.

Top Notch

June 23, 2021 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 13 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Journey to the center

Steve augeri, former lead singer for the rock band Journey, performs “Stone in Love” June 17 with his band outdoors at the center of anna maria Island, 407 magnolia ave., anna maria. The concert was the third in a series of four sponsored by the Bradenton area convention and Visitors Bureau. Folk rock band The grass Roots will perform as the final act at 7 p.m. Friday, July 2, at the center, with ticket details at centerami.org. Islander Photos: Ryan Paice

Steve augeri, former lead singer of Journey, earns applause June 17 from the audience at the center. Bradenton musician Sara nelms opens a June 17 concert at the center with a combination of her own music and covers.

Summer school supplies carolann garafola of the artists’ guild of anna maria Island delivers donated art supplies to Blanche H. daughtrey Preparatory School June 10. Supplies included easels and tote bags. agamI supports arts in the schools, operates a gallery in Holmes Beach and hosts art instruction. For more information, call the gallery at 941778-6694 or visit at 5414 marina drive. Islander courtesy Photo

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Streetlife

HB magistrate slaps resort with $1K daily ﬁnes

Repeat code violations at the Bali Hai Beachfront Resort & Spa, 6900 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, have resulted in some hefty fines. Holmes Beach’s special magistrate Michael Connolly, a Sarasota attorney, ruled June 11 to fine the resort $1,000 per day for two repeated violations — work without a permit and a change of use without an approved site plan. Code enforcement officers issued a stop work order last October for construction on the property. However, code compliance supervisor JT Thomas said the resort has completed unpermitted renovations to a building and opened an outdoor bar/lounge area without submitting a site plan for the proposed change of use. Connolly ruled the resort was in violation and initially proposed a $125 daily fine for unpermitted construction. However, building official Neil Schwartz encouraged the magistrate to raise the fine. “I honestly don’t think $125 is going to get any reaction from the owner when they’re renting out properties of over $500 a day,” Schwartz said. “I understand we have to be fair but, on the other hand, the only way that sometimes we can reach people is imposing a fine

Island police reports

a Holmes Beach magistrate ruled June 11 that owners of the Bali Hai Beachfront Resort & Spa, 6900 gulf drive, Holmes Beach, violated permitting and site plan rules. Islander Photo: Ryan Paice

that’s high enough that they actually understand we’re trying to get their attention.” Connolly raised the cost of the daily fine to $500 and imposed another $500 daily fine for unpermitted change of use. He also ordered the bar-lounge to cease operations until a site plan is approved. Connolly allowed the resort until June 30 to submit a site plan application. — Ryan Paice

In session aBoVe: People mingle June 15 in the meeting room at West manatee Fire Rescue’s new administration building, 701 63rd St. W., Bradenton, during the first official gathering since construction finished last month. LeFT: cameron Frazier holds the certificate honoring his promotion to first-class firefighter June 15 alongside his wife, mary. The certificate was presented at the WmFR board meeting. Islander Photos: Ryan Paice

Vehicles fill the parking lot June 15 at West manatee Fire Rescue’s new administration building, 701 63rd St. W., Bradenton, before the board of commissioners held their first meeting at the new location.

Donations for ‘Strength’ mt. carmel Resource center executive director Shirley Pearson, left, stands June 18 with employee albert Kennedy, Holmes Beach Police officer Joshua Fleischer and mt. carmel volunteer gilbert White, alongside one of 22 bicycles donated by the Holmes Beach Police department to the community center’s Strength in action program, which aims to address the needs of low-income and homeless people in the area. Islander Photos: courtesy HBPd chief Bill Tokajer

Staff reports

Anna Maria June 14, 200 block of Oak Avenue, noise. The Manatee County Sheriff’s Office dispatched a deputy at 4:03 a.m. regarding loud music. The deputy heard loud music and issued a citation for violation of the noise ordinance. The MCSO polices Anna Maria. Bradenton Beach No new reports. The BBPD polices Bradenton Beach. Cortez June 10, Seafood Shack, 4110 127th St., W., burglary. The MCSO dispatched a deputy regarding a complaint of fishing equipment stolen from a boat. Security footage showed two people approach the boat. While one stood watch, another went on the boat and removed four fishing poles valued at about $730. The pair put the poles in the rear of a vehicle and drove away. Deputies filed a report. The MCSO polices Cortez. Holmes Beach June 9, 3200 block of Sixth Avenue, paraphernalia. An officer from the Holmes Beach Police Department stopped a vehicle whose juvenile driver admitted having marijuana. Other juveniles were passengers. The officer searched the vehicle and found the substance and a pipe. The officer called the juveniles’ parents and confiscated the paraphernalia. June 10, Manatee Public Beach, 4000 Gulf Drive, fraudulent handicap placard. An officer saw a handicap placard he didn’t recognize inside a vehicle parked in a handicap spot so he contacted the driver, who said it was her mother’s. The officer found the driver’s mother wasn’t at the beach. He issued the driver a court summons and citation. June 10, Manatee Public Beach, 4000 Gulf Drive, fraudulent handicap placard. An officer saw a vehicle with a damaged handicap placard parked in a handicap spot so he contacted the driver, who said it was his mother’s, who was not with him. The officer issued a court summons and citation. June 11, 4800 block of Second Avenue, noise. An officer responded to calls about a noisy vacation rental tenant and heard loud music from a property. An officer used a decibel meter to obtain a reading proving the noise was in violation of city code. He issued a citation. June 12, 5900 block of Flotilla Drive, trespass. An officer responded to calls about a stranger in someone’s home. He found an intoxicated man walking in the back yard. The officer trespassed the man. June 13, Manatee Public Beach, 4000 Gulf Drive, fraudulent handicap placard. An officer found a driver using someone else’s handicap placard. The officer issued a court summons and citation. June 13, West Wind Shores, 6804 Gulf Drive, criminal mischief. Two officers searched unsuccessfully for men who reportedly tried to break into locked doors and damaged property. June 14, Anchor Inn, 3007 Gulf Drive, trespass. An officer responded to reports of a patron who refused to leave. The officer issued a trespass warning. June 14, Manatee Public Beach, 4000 Gulf Drive, drug possession. An officer saw a group of juveniles in a vehicle parked after hours. He searched it and found a bag of psychedelic mushrooms. The officer transported the driver to the Manatee County Juvenile Assessment Center in Bradenton. June 14, 3000 block of Avenue E, larceny. A man entered the HBPD to report that a license plate was missing from a boat trailer parked at a construction site. The man provided a statement. June 15, 3900 block of Gulf Drive, paraphernalia. An officer smelled marijuana from a man on the sidewalk. The man handed the officer a pipe. The officer confiscated the paraphernalia. June 16, 3900 block of Gulf Drive, marijuana. An officer saw men walking and smelled marijuana. He searched the group and found a bag of marijuana. The officer issued a citation. HBPD polices Holmes Beach. Streetlife is based on incident reports and narratives from the BBPD, HBPD and MCSO.

June 23, 2021 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 15 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

storm ready? Evacuating from home to shelter Got a friend with a mainland condo outside the flood zone offering shelter? Want to build up points on the rewards card? If authorities order an evacuation of Anna Maria Island, you might want to accept a friend’s offer of the sleeper sofa or book a hurricane holiday at a mainland motel or inn. Emergency management officials encourage residents to consider options other than the public shelter, including hotels or stays with family or friends out of the evacuation zone. In the event the public shelter is the only option, turn to local media for notice of shelter openings, including available locations hosting pets and the location serving people with special needs. A special needs shelter opens in advance of others, but the site can change depending on storm predictions and other factors. Manatee County’s shelter roster, updated as needed at mymanatee.org, includes: • BAYSHORE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL, 6120 26th St. W., Bradenton. • BRADEN RIVER MIDDLE SCHOOL, 6215

River Club Blvd., Bradenton. • BRADEN RIVER HIGH SCHOOL, 6545 State Road 70 E., Bradenton. • BUFFALO CREEK MIDDLE SCHOOL, 7320 69th St. E., Palmetto. • DAUGHTREY ELEMENTARY SCHOOL, 515 63rd Ave. E., Bradenton. • FREEDOM ELEMENTARY SCHOOL, 9515 State Road 64 E., Bradenton. • GULLETT ELEMENTARY SCHOOL, 12125 44th Ave. E., Bradenton. • HAILE MIDDLE SCHOOL, 9501 State Road 64 E., Bradenton. • HARVEY ELEMENTARY, 8610 115th Ave. E., Parrish. • JOHNSON-WAKELAND SCHOOL, 2121 26th Ave. E., Bradenton. • KINNAN ELEMENTARY SCHOOL, 3415 Tallevast Road, Sarasota. • LEE MIDDLE SCHOOL, 4000 53rd Ave. W., Bradenton. • MANATEE HIGH SCHOOL, 902 33rd St. Court W.., Bradenton.

Tagged to return With the arrival of the Atlantic hurricane season, check to see that the hang tag is still hanging out in the glove box. Island residents need to obtain re-entry tags to return after an evacuation. Each of the three city halls distributes a tag — a hanging tag for display in the front window of a vehicle — one per residence to applicants with photo identification and proof of resi-

dency. Anna Maria residents seeking information about tags can call city hall at 941-7086130. In Holmes Beach, call the police department at 941-708-5807. In Bradenton Beach, call city hall at 941-778-1005.

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• MCNEAL ELEMENTARY SCHOOL, 6325 Lorraine Road, Bradenton. • MILLER ELEMENTARY SCHOOL, 4201 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton. • MILLS ELEMENTARY SCHOOL, 7200 69th St. E., Palmetto. • MYAKKA CITY ELEMENTARY SCHOOL, 37205 Manatee Ave., Myakka City. • ONECO ELEMENTARY SCHOOL, 5214 22nd St. Court E., Bradenton. • PRINE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL, 3801 Southern Parkway, Bradenton. • ROGERS GARDEN ELEMENTARY SCHOOL, 515 13th Ave. W., Bradenton. • SEABREEZE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL, 3601 71st St. W., Bradenton. • TILLMAN ELEMENTARY SCHOOL, 1415 29th St. E., Palmetto. • WILLIAMS ELEMENTARY SCHOOL, 3404 Fort Hamer Road, Parrish. • WILLIS ELEMENTARY SCHOOL, 14705 The Masters Ave., Bradenton. • WITT ELEMENTARY SCHOOL, 200 Rye Road, Bradenton. Also, the CENTER OF ANNA MARIA ISLAND, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria, is a designated a poststorm emergency shelter, serving as a shelter during re-entry after an island evacuation.

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Gathering

Faces and fellowship eleanor chochran and others gather June 13 at Roser memorial community church for refreshments on Fellowship Sunday. It was the first such event since the pandemic hit in march 2020. Refreshments are served after 8:30 a.m. and 10 a.m. Sunday services at the church, 512 Pine ave., anna maria. Islander Photos: Peggy nash

Gloria Dei collecting new shoes for ‘Project Heart’

Gloria Dei Lutheran Church invites islanders to lace up for a cause. The church, 6608 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, will collect new shoes for Project Heart through July 15. Project Heart is a Manatee County schools program providing “students living in housing transition with support and resources to enroll, attend and succeed in school.” Islanders can drop off new shoes for kids of all ages — including teens — at the church 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Monday-Thursday and 9:30 a.m. Sunday, when the church is open for worship services. For more information, call the church office at 941-778-1813 or email the church at office@gloriadeilutheran.com.

GoodDeeds

Assistance sought on AMI

• Moonracer Animal Rescue seeks volunteers to offer foster and forever homes for rescued animals. Information: 941-345-2441. • The Roser Food Bank seeks donations. Roser Memorial Community Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, administers the pantry, supported by All Island Denominations. Worship and events calendar Information: 941-778-0414. • The Manatee SPECIAL EVENTS County Parks and NatuJuly 1-15, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Monday-Thursday, 9:30 a.m. Sunday, cherrie Birkman, left, and Pam Ladd of Roser’s hos- ral Resources Department Gloria Dei Lutheran Church New Shoe Drive, 6608 Marina Drive, pitality committee visit at Fellowship Sunday. seeks “self-guided volunHolmes Beach. Information: 941-778-1813. teers” to clean trails and 9 a.m. — CrossPointe Fellowship, 8605 Gulf Drive, Holmes beaches, take photos and REGULAR WORSHIP Beach. Information: 941-778-0719. other tasks. Info: michelle. Monday-Friday 9:15 a.m. — Harvey Memorial Community Church, 300 Church leahy@mymanatee.org or 941-742-5923.

Tidings

8:30 a.m. — St. Bernard Catholic Church, 248 S. Harbor Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-4769. Thursdays 9:30 a.m. — Episcopal Church of the Annunciation, 4408 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-1638. Saturdays 4 p.m. — St. Bernard Catholic Church. 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. Information: 941-778-0414.

Obituaries

Courtney Call

Courtney Call, 43, of Holmes Beach and formerly Massachusetts died June 5. Her survivors include her son, Matthew Curry. Ms. Call lived and work for many years on Anna Maria Island, including as office staff at The Islander newspaper and bartending at the Anchor Inn and Tommy Knockers Saloon. An island celebration of life took place June 18 and a GoFundMe campaign was established by Christina Redden of Bradenton to assist Ms. Call’s son with expenses and to collect remembrances and condolences. “The family is incredibly grateful for the outpouring of condolences and offerings of assistance,” read a statement on the GoFundMe page. “This page was

Ave., Bradenton Beach. Information: 941-779-1912. 9:30 a.m. — Gloria Dei Lutheran Church. 9:45 a.m. — Episcopal Church of the Annunciation. 10 a.m. — Roser Church. 10 a.m. — Christ Church of Longboat Key Presbyterian USA, 6400 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key. Information: 941-9004903. 10 a.m. — Longboat Island Chapel, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key. Information: 941-383-6491. 10:30 a.m. — St. Bernard. 10:45 a.m. — Church of the Annunciation. Send listings to calendar@islander.org.

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• The Roser Food Bank welcomes applicants who live and/or work on Anna Maria Island for food assistance, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Information: 941-778-0414. • AID offers help to those who live on the island, go to church on the island, attend school on the island and work on the island. Information: 941-725-2433. — Lisa neff Please, send listings to calendar@islander.org.

created in advocacy of Matthew for Ronald Carl Drumheller Ronald Carl Drumheller of Parrish died June 16. his mother’s cremation and for his He was born to Carl A. and Kathryn Mauger and financial needs moving forward.” As of June 21, about $2,500 of a grew up in the Boyertown, Pennsylvania, area, where he graduated from Daniel Boone High School. He $7,500 goal was reached. attended Drexel University. The campaign on GoFundMe. He was a loyal member of the com is “Courtney Call memorial bencall Anna Maria Island Moose Lodge efitting Matthew Curry.” 2188 and also held membership A celebration of life and benefit also was being with Lowther Manor Lodge No 781, planned for 5:30 p.m. Wednesday, June 23, at the F&AM (32nd degree), American Anchor Inn, 3000 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. Legion Post 309 (Palmetto), Elks drumheller Lodge 2606 (Punta Gorda), and Pike About obituaries Township Sportsmen’s Association. Obituaries are offered as a community service Mr. Drumheller retired from JBC Associates, King to residents and families of residents, both past and of Prussia, Pennsylvania, as vice president of construcpresent, as well as to those people with ties to the tion management. He also held management positions island. Submit obituaries and photos to news@ PLeaSe, See OBiTUArieS, neXT Page islander.org. Islander obituaries are free.

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June 23, 2021 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 19 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Center campers salute Flag Day with military vets Honor guard capt. gerald gallagher from the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post #10141 leads a Flag day celebration June 14 at the center of anna maria Island, 407 magnolia ave., anna maria. Flag day celebrates the adoption of the american flag as the official flag of the united States. Islander Photos: courtesy cofamI/Jim mcdaniel

Honor guard members from the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post #10141 demonstrate June 14 how to fold an american flag for youth campers at the center.

Holiday on Bridge Street

capt. gerald gallagher speaks June 14 to campers and staff about Flag day. OBiTUArieS FRom Page 14

in Pennsylvania with CMC Engineering in Kimberton, Goodkind and O’Dea in Carlisle, and Glasgow Inc. of Glenside. He enjoyed his long career and established many friends in various capacities in the private sector, as well as with the state of Pennsylvania. He and wife Donna enjoyed many weekends at their condo in Ocean City, Maryland, before retiring to Florida. They enjoyed boating and fishing in Ocean City, as well as the blue waters off the coast of Anna Maria Island. A hunting cabin in the mountains of Pennsylvania allowed him to pursue bow hunting, one of his greatest passions. A celebration of life for family and friends is being planned in Florida and Pennsylvania. Mr. Drumheller is survived by his wife, Donna Lee; daughters Deanna and husband Richard Barndt, Karen L. Drumheller, Meredith Drumheller and Erik Greathouse, stepdaughters Stacey Robinson and husband Chris Fadden and Heidi Robinson Ricker; grandchildren Olivia, Elizabeth, Nicholas, Jerrin, Brianna, Addison, Jaxson and Xander; sisters Nancy Kuser, Kathy and husband Frank Larkin and Carol and husband Bruce Alderfer.

Campers to paint museum benches

Four benches at the Anna Maria Island Historical Society Museum are set for a makeover. About 20 kids enrolled at the Center of Anna Maria Island Summer My Way camp will paint the benches June 22-24, weather permitting. They also planned an advance tour of the museum, 402 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, according to Valerie Wilson, AMIHS’s publicity director. Led by camp art teacher Angie Prindle, the campers will paint the benches a turtle-theme, paying homage to a time when the building housed a sea turtle hatchery. The benches were primed a couple of weeks ago by AMIHS member John Flynn. The primer and quarts of paint in five colors were donated by Charles Savage of Holmes Beach Ace Hardware, 3352 E. Bay Drive. “He’s just a really nice businessperson,” Wilson said of Savage.

Bruce mcKee, left, vacationing on amI from south Texas with granddaughter Jenna mcKee, right, and her mom casey, center. The family enjoyed the shops and dining June 9 on Bridge Street in Bradenton Beach. Islander Photo: Kelsey mako

Milestones

The Islander welcomes stories about islanders and island life. Submit your story and photos to news@islander.org.

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Page 20 THE ISLANDER | islander.org June 23, 2021 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

FISH meeting spawns Cortez village collaboration By Kane Kaiman Islander Reporter

A net-work is forming. Two Cortez institutions — the local chapter of Organized Fishermen of Florida and the Florida Maritime Museum — were represented June 8 at the Florida Institute for Saltwater Heritage monthly board meeting at Fishermen’s Hall in Cortez. The heads of OFF and FMM and FISH board members discussed how the organizations could collaborate to advance a shared goal: maintaining Cortez’s commercial fishing legacy. Nathan Meschelle — a local commercial fisher and president of the Cortez Chapter of Organized Fishermen of Florida — said OFF plans to become more involved in FISH projects. Meschelle, a member of FISH who has volunteered at the nonprofit’s annual fishing festival, said OFF might be able to help FISH with conservation initiatives, including improvements to the 100-acre FISH Preserve east of the village. OFF — a nonprofit that works to improve the economic well-being of stakeholders in Florida’s fisheries through lobbying, education and conservation efforts — conducted a shoreline cleanup April 24 in areas of north Sarasota Bay. “Our passion is in our ecosystem and in the beauty of the environment,” Meschelle said. Meschelle and FISH treasurer Jane von Hahmann discussed the possibility of FISH becoming a member of OFF and the 30-year-old fisher thanked the FISH board for letting his organization use Fishermen’s Hall, 4515 124th St. W., Cortez, for quarterly meetings. The four-year OFF president also mentioned his chapter would host OFF’s annual convention July 10

Tori chasey, supervisor of the Florida maritime museum, expresses her desire to work with FISH and the cortez Village Historical Society to achieve community goals.

at the hall, where members from across the state will gather to discuss the group’s efforts to work with state agencies to ensure fishing regulations are as beneficial as possible to fishers and the environment. Meschelle told The Islander his goals as president of OFF are to professionalize the fishing industry and maintain a sustainable fishery. “We are the stewards of our land,” he said. “Just like a farmer is not going to till the same crop time and time again, we do not want to harvest our fish to extinction. We want to come up with new, sustainable ways to fish.” Following the OFF discussion, FISH president Kim McVey introduced Tori Chasey, who took over as supervisor of the Florida Maritime Museum in March. Chasey, who worked at the Palmetto Historical Park for more than seven years before assuming the top job at the museum, said she wants to build a strong

relationship with FISH and the community. Chasey and Kaye Bell, a FISH board member and president of the Cortez Village Historical Society, described how the museum and CVHS are collaborating. For example, Soupy Davis, a Cortez musician, and his band are performing at the Cortez Cultural Center, 11655 Cortez Road W., and the museum, 4415 119th St. W., 2-4 p.m. the second and fourth Saturdays of the month. Bell also said Chasey helped her locate materials for exhibits in the Cortez Cultural Center and that the museum and CVHS plan to co-host an event later in the year that will include a nautical sale. For more on FISH, call 941-794-0043 or email jvonhahm@verizon.net.

nathan meschelle, president of the cortez chapter of the organized Fishermen of Florida, introduces himself June 8 to Florida Institute for Saltwater Heritage members at their board meeting at Fishermen’s Hall in cortez. Islander Photos: Kane Kaiman capt. Soupy davis performs in 2018 at the BurtonBratton Store in cortez. Islander File Photo

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June 23, 2021 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 21 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Disney honors local heroes, Sarasota Bay dolphin researchers Resident Sarasota Bay dolphins leap in a boat wake.

The Sarasota Dolphin Research Program operated Sarasota dolphin by the Chicago Zoological Society received a Disney Research Program staff Conservation Hero Award, which honors commitments includes, top row from to save wildlife, protect habitats and inspire communileft, Jonathan crossman ties to take part in conservation efforts. and dr. Katie mcHugh; With the honor came a $1,500 award from the middle row from left, Kim Disney Conservation Fund. Bassos-Hull, aaron BarThe SDRP’s origins date to 1970 and co-founder leycorn and dr. Krystan and director Dr. Randall Wells leads the program. Wilkinson; bottom row The team discovered that bottlenose dolphins in from left, Jason allen, dr. Sarasota Bay reside in long-term local communities Randy Wells, dr. christina and, for 50 years, has conducted the world’s longestToms and interns Jessica running study of a wild dolphin population. Barrios, Leticia magpali The team uses its research to help people get to estevão and amy cabeknow local dolphins as individuals, encouraging proceiras. Islander Photos: tection for the water-based residents. courtesy chicago ZooThe team also helps to rescue entangled or injured logical Society dolphins and has trained more than 400 researchers and students from more than 30 countries in dolphin for this important work. A deep dedication to dolphin said in a news release. “We look forward to the next research and conservation techniques. conservation is what powers our research, so this award 50 years of SDRP.” The SDRP is one of 20 2020 award recipients. — Lisa neff “We feel immensely honored to be acknowledged is extremely encouraging to everyone involved,” Wells

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Page 22 THE ISLANDER | islander.org June 23, 2021 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

son said he is hopeful. For more information on sea turtles, go to AMITW’s website at islandturtlewatch.com or call Fox at 941-778-5638.

Nesting notes By Kelsey Mako

Some BB properties fail safety checks

When the sun goes down, clear the beach and turn out the lights. Despite improvements made since the beginning of sea turtle nesting season in May, Bradenton Beach property owners still have work to do to make the sea turtle habitat more nest friendly. The island cities require by ordinance that artificial lighting and items on beaches be eliminated during nesting and hatching season, which is May 1-Oct. 31, because lights and obstacles on the beach can interfere with protected sea turtles. In policing the shore, Bradenton Beach code enforcement officer Ronald Peterson said he issued four notices related to sea turtle protections, but no citations as of June 16. Peterson said furniture left on the beach is the biggest issue in the city and most involve four resorts, he said. A lack of turtle friendly lighting also has been a problem at the resorts. Peterson declined when asked by The Islander to provide the resort names. Suzi Fox, executive director of Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring, the volunteer group that monitors and collects data during sea turtle and shorebird nesting seasons, stressed the importance of adhering to the regulations. Artificial lighting can lead to turtle disorientations and disrupt nesting activity, but lighting also can lead turtles away from the Gulf to death by dehydration, predation or from interaction with vehicles in the road. “In my opinion, there’s too much light,” Fox said of the area south of the city’s northern border with Holmes Beach to 13th Street South. But, Fox added, “We’re going to get this under mako

a green sea turtle nest is marked June 14 on the north end of anna maria Island. Islander Photos: courtesy Bill Booher

control.” Peterson is working his first nesting season, having stepped into the code enforcement job April 19 to succeed Gail Garneau, who retired July 31, 2020. “He is starting from scratch. He’s got to design it,” Fox said. She added, “He’s a talented man. I think we’re going to be very happy with him.” Peterson said he has been proactive this season, with regular light checks at night and removing furniture and other gear found on the beach at night. He said he follows up with property owners the next morning. Looking north from Bradenton Beach, Fox said Holmes Beach has improved in terms of its beaches being turtle friendly, despite some violations, and Anna Maria does not have a huge lighting problem. Anna Maria did have a problem with disorientations in May, when Fox suspected someone was videoing turtles at night. When asked if Bradenton Beach will be safer for sea turtles by the time nests start to hatch in July, Peter-

Sea turtle tracks discovered by amITW volunteers June 14 at the north end of the island were later confirmed to be made by a green sea turtle.

as of June 20, amITW had identified 183 nests and 231 false crawls on the island.

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a manatee surfaces to breathe. The Floridabased Save the manatee club reminds summer boaters to watch for manatees. Islander Photo: Save the manatee/david Schrichte

By Lisa Neff

Press for manatee protections

Question authority. We said so four years ago, when the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service moved to reduce the protected status for manatees. The FWS in March 2017 issued a news release headlined, “Manatee reclassified from endangered to threatened as habitat improves and population expands.” The government agency declared efforts were bringing the “giant sea neff cow back from brink of extinction” and noted the estimated population of 6,620 Florida manatees marked a dramatic turnaround from the 1970s, when only a few hundred manatees existed. “On the heels of Manatee Appreciation Day, the U.S. Department of the Interior announced the downlisting of the West Indian manatee from endangered to threatened. Notable increases in manatee populations and improvements in its habitat allowed the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to change the species’ status under the Endangered Species Act,” the news release stated. What a strange way to show appreciation for the species. Sure, we’d seen improvements in manatee numbers but four years ago we asked in our letters to then Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke: Why change course now? At the Save the Manatee Club, executive director Patrick Rose warned, “A federal reclassification at this time will seriously undermine the chances of securing the manatee’s long-term survival. With the new federal administration threatening to cut 75% of regulations, including those that protect our wildlife, air and water quality, the move then to downlist manatees can only be seen as a political one.” U.S. Rep. Vern Buchanan, R-Longboat Key, also was among those who objected four years ago to the downlisting of the manatee. He tweeted from @VernBuchanan: “@usfws decision to weaken manatee protections HUGELY disappointing. Bad for manatee, bad for Fla. Will contact #secretaryzinke!” Now he’s pressing U.S. Interior Secretary Deb Haaland to reinstate the “endangered” status for manatees. Buchanan called on the FWS June 14 to upgrade the manatee’s status under the Endangered Species Act

in a letter referring to a likely record number of manatee deaths in 2021 and cautioning the “fate of Florida’s iconic mammal” is at stake. According to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, 761 manatees died in the first half of 2021. The annual record for manatee deaths in the state is 804, set in 2018. Also, the FWC estimates there are about 6,500 manatees in the southeastern United States, 120 fewer than estimated when the federal government downlisted the species in 2017. “When a species becomes extinct, it is lost forever,” Buchanan said. “We cannot afford to let that happen to these iconic residents of Florida and the state’s official marine mammal.” “Given the alarming surge in manatee deaths this year, upgrading their ESA designation is critical,” added the congressman, whose district includes Anna Maria Island. Manatees face multiple threats but Buchanan cited broad consensus among conservationists that water quality — degraded habitat, growing pollution and increased harmful algal blooms that kill seagrass —

“are the driving force behind the rapidly growing death rate.” Disappearing seagrasses mean starving animals, and there have been reports of many dead, emaciated manatees washing up on Florida shores. The government should guarantee the highest level of protection for the state’s gentle giants. Pressure authority. Manatee’s manatee casualties The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission reported 761 manatee deaths in the state Jan. 1-June 11, including seven in Manatee County: • March 12, Manatee River, natural, other; • April 9, Critical Bayou, Palmetto, not necropsied; • April 9, Braden River, perinatal; • April 25, Terra Ceia Bay, Palmetto, watercraft collision; • May 22, Manatee River, Bradenton, perinatal; • May 30, Palma Sola Bay, Bradenton, watercraft collision; • June 8, Palma Sola Bay, Bradenton, perinatal.

Slow down, manatees on the move With temperatures heating, manatees are on the move, and the Save the Manatee Club is reminding boaters to keep a watchful eye for this imperiled species. In the summer months, manatees can be found far beyond their winter sanctuaries. Designated manatee protection zones in Florida can signify areas where manatees have been regularly documented but the slow-moving mammals can be found in all manner of rivers, bays, estuaries and coastal ecosystems. Manatees are more likely to prefer shallower waters —about 3-7 feet deep — and areas with

aquatic vegetation, like seagrass beds. Boating slowly in these areas and looking for snouts, backs, tails and flippers can help you spot manatees. Florida residents and visitors should report dead, orphaned, beached, entangled, tagged, harassed or sick manatees to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission at 888-404-FWCC. The Save the Manatee Club was founded in 1981 by singer/songwriter Jimmy Buffett and former Florida Gov. and U.S. Sen. Bob Graham. For more information about the club, go to savethemanatee.org or call 800-432-JOIN.

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Adult soccer semis, championship set for 1 night, June 24 By Kevin P. Cassidy Islander Reporter

Sandbar defender Chris Klotz, right, watches as Zoran Kolega of Flynn Law prepares to play the ball during adult soccer quarterfinal action June 10 at the Center of Anna Maria Island. Islander Photo: Kevin P. Cassidy

Soccer at the community center in Anna Maria is at a fever pitch. After eight weeks of regular season action, the spring-summer adult soccer league at the Center of Anna Maria Island comes down to one night. Semifinal action will kick off at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, June 24, when No. 2 seed CABB takes on No. 8 Salty Printing. The second semifinal Cassidy match will see No. 3 seed Flynn Law take on No. 5 Slim’s Place with the winners meeting immediately following the semis for the championship match at 9 p.m. On paper, it appears CABB is the prohibitive favorite, but as Salty Printing proved in its quarterfinal upset of No. 1 Beach Bums, anything can happen. Key Royale golf news Action teed off at the Key Royale Club June 14 with the men’s regular nine-hole modified-Stableford golf match. Ken Butler fired a plus-3 to take clubhouse bragging rights for the day. Tom Nelson and Jon Holcomb were both a point back in a tie for second place. The members were back on the course June 17 for a nine-hole scramble. The team of Ken Butler, Hoyt Miller, Dick Mills and Terry Schaefer combined on a

1-over-par 33 to take first place. Second place went proceedings. to the team of Jon Holcomb, Ron Vandeman, Scott The June 19 games saw Howcroft team up with Mitchell and Steve Vasbinder with a 6-over-par 38. Bob Heiger to fashion the only 3-0 pool-play record to win the Saturday challenge. The victory gave HowHorseshoe winners croft a sweep of the week’s games. Two outright winners made for a succinct week of Play gets underway at 9 a.m. Wednesdays and Sathorseshoe action at the Anna Maria City Hall pits. urdays at the Anna Maria pits. Warmups begin at 8:45 On June 16, Gary Howcroft walked his way to a.m. followed by random team selection. There is no the lone 3-0 record during pool play to win the day’s charge to play and everyone is welcome.

Anglers react to pelican abuse report, new Skyway pier regulations By Kane Kaiman Islander Reporter

Feels good to be off the hook. A Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission investigation into the cause of injuries to pelicans at the South Sunshine Skyway Fishing Pier found no evidence of intentional harm. “We put everything on the line on this. This was our group’s reputation, our reputation. If this would’ve backlashed that we were in the wrong, it would have probably crushed us as fishermen out there,” said “Grouper” Mike Gaby. Gaby — a pier employee who has fished the Manatee County portion of the old Skyway Bridge at the mouth of Tampa Bay for about 25 years — is a member of the Skyway Misfits Fishing Group. When complaints were made in mid-February that more than a dozen “scalped” pelicans had been found on the pier, tensions flared between the fishing group — which has more than 11,000 members on Facebook — and Friends of the Pelicans, a nonprofit seabird Southernaire Fishing Charters

rescue group that encountered the injured birds and complained to the FWC. Friends of the Pelicans founder Jeanette Edwards, who lives near Anna Maria Island, initiated the complaint, maintaining on social media the injuries were intentional abuse. Despite multiple attempts, Edwards could not be reached for comment on the results of the investigation as of The Islander’s press time June 21. FOTP has posted a full-time seabird attendant on the pier since October 2020, and, according to Edwards, more than 1,000 birds have been treated to date — sometimes as many as 25-30 birds a day. Reports of “scalpings” and the number of birds injured at the pier prompted local officials and the state agencies that regulate the pier to take action. At a June 8 meeting, before the abuse investigation report had been released, Manatee County Commissioners addressed the pier’s seabird problem. Commissioner Misty Servia reported on steps to prevent and mitigate injuries to seabirds at the pier,

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including: • The development of a rescuer training and certification program; • Limiting fishing rods on the pier to three per angler; • The installation of cameras on park buildings to monitor unwanted activity; • The hiring of a full-time seabird rescuer; • The hiring of a full-time park ranger on the pier. Gaby said June 17 that fishers don’t have a problem with the new rules. The FWC suggested the pelican injuries were from causes such as pelicans diving for food into structure and wounds from boat propellers. The Florida Department of Environmental Protection also indicated it would institute new pier regulations aimed at minimizing injury to seabirds.

TideWatch

Red tide persists in region

In Southwest Florida, a bloom of the red tide organism persists. Karenia brevis was detected in 52 samples the week ending June 20, including background to medium concentrations in Manatee County. Also, background to high concentrations were in Pinellas County, very low to medium concentrations in Hillsborough County, background concentrations in Sarasota County, low concentrations in Charlotte County, background to very low concentrations in Lee County and background to very low concentrations in Collier County. Fish kills suspected to be related to red tide were reported in Pinellas, Hillsborough and Manatee counties. Including snapper and mullet in Palmetto. Respiratory irritation suspected to be related to red tide was reported in Pinellas County. For more information, go online to myfwc.com/ research/redtide.

Anna Maria Island Tides

Date

facebook.com/ Islandernewspaper

HIGH

June 23 1:06a 1.5 10:26a June 24 11:09a 3.0 — June 25 11:54a 3.0 — June 26 12:42p 3.0 — June 27 1:32p 2.8 — June 28 2:26p 2.6 — June 29 6:00a 1.5 3:26p June 30 6:23a 1.6 4:36p

HIGH

2.9 3:37a — 7:23p — 8:12p — 8:58p — 9:43p — 10:25p 2.3 9:04a 2.0 10:42a

LOW

1.3 6:31p -0.6 — -0.6 — -0.5 — -0.3 — -0.1 — 1.4 11:06p 1.3 11:46p

LOW

-0.6 — — — — — 0.1 0.4

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

Moon

Full

June 23, 2021 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 25 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Summer officially begins, sparking action inshore, offshore By Capt. Danny Stasny Islander Reporter

The temps and the fishing are heating up. Among the sketchy patches of red tide and Lyngbya in the waters surrounding Anna Maria Island, anglers are finding a good bite. In fact, the fishing is quite good. Offshore fishing remains at center stage, with numerous reports of gag grouper being caught. American red snapper are taking the hook with daily limits coming to Stasny the docks. Other snappers — mangroves and yellowtail — are being accommodating, quickly eating baits as they reach the bottom. Red grouper are being found while bottom fishing, as well as some true black grouper. Moving inshore, catch-and-release snook fishing is dominating the flats bite. Casting baits around mangroves and oyster bars is working great. Also, sight casting to fish along the Gulf beaches is providing some enjoyable sport fishing. Catching fish for dinner is occurring while working the deeper grass flats in Tampa Bay. Spotted seatrout are the most apparent, although mangrove snapper are beginning to make a showing on the flats. Redfish are being caught in the same areas as the catch-and-release snook on the flats. You can expect to find reds while fishing structures, such as piers and docks, and baiting a live shrimp at the Rod & Reel Pier in Anna Maria is a good place to start. Lastly, fishing structure such as wrecks and reefs in Tampa Bay is resulting in success on Spanish mackerel and mangrove snapper. On my own charters, I am enjoying the catch-andrelease action on snook in Tampa Bay. Using live shiners as bait is resulting in many snook of 20-26 inches. Larger slot-size fish are taking the bait and giving a fight to my anglers. Spotted seatrout are rounding out the bite, with most catches in the slot of 15-19 inches. Limits of these fish are attainable. I’m also seeing mangrove snapper showing up on the flats, which is encouraging. When these fish get on the flats it’s rewarding to add them to the cooler. And when the snapper get on the flats, you know what time it is — time to start using hatch bait. Lastly, I’m picking up redfish along the mangrove shorelines but the bite is sporadic. They mainly are being caught while we’re targeting snook. Capt. Jason Stock is finding plenty of action in the Gulf of Mexico. He’s catching limits of American red snapper, as well as plenty of mangrove snapper and grouper on his offshore trips. The highlight of the week for Stock was catching black grouper, with one whopper weighing in at 85 pounds. Now that’s a lot of fish dinners. On days when the winds are too strong to head offshore, Stock is patrolling the beaches for tarpon and the catches are running 120-180 pounds. While

Fishing tip! If you hook a bird, remember: Reel, remove, release!

Taylor Vandine, left, and sister Amanda Burkett, hooked this whopper, an 85-pound black grouper, June 11 on a guided fishing trip with Capt. Jason Stock.

targeting the silver kings, Stock says there are plenty of bull sharks following the schools. Capt. David White reports working inshore with good results. Mangrove snapper are being caught with some frequency around wrecks, reefs and in the passes. These fish are measuring 10-16 inches — perfect for a fish fry. While fishing around mangrove shorelines, White is putting his anglers on some good action on catchand-release snook. Casting live shiners in these areas is resulting in numerous hookups with the linesiders, as well as some slot-size redfish. In deeper water, away from shore, White is finding spotted seatrout, ladyfish and jack crevalle cooperative. Finally, tarpon hunting along the beaches of Anna Maria Island is producing action for White’s clients. Catches 80-150 pounds are the norm. Capt. Warren Girle is finding plenty of action while fishing the deeper flats of Sarasota Bay. Freelining live shiners or shiners under a popping cork is resulting in spotted seatrout, ladyfish, mackerel and juvenile blacktip sharks. The sharks, 3 feet or less, are worthy adversaries on light tackle and quite fun to

catch, Girle says. On shallower flats, near oyster bars and mangroves, Girle is putting clients on numerous redfish and catch-and-release snook. Moving from the backcountry, Girle is in pursuit of tarpon along the beaches of Longboat Key and Anna Maria Island, where casting live crabs or threadfin herring is resulting in a bite and an occasional trophy photo. Jim Malfese at the Rod & Reel Pier says fishing at Anna Maria Island’s northern-most pier is pretty darn good. Pier fishers using live shrimp as bait are catching a variety of species. Black drum and redfish are being caught frequently, as well as some hefty mangrove snapper. Catch-and-release snook are being tricked into taking a live shrimp on the hook, with some catches reaching 30 inches or bigger. Pier fishers using small jigs or silver spoons also are finding action. Spanish mackerel, ladyfish jack crevalle are some of the species showing interest in these lures. Lastly, using cut bait — mullet or mackerel — is coaxing an occasional shark to have a taste. Send high-resolution photos and fishing reports to fish@islander.org.

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Island’s beauty on display

Beautiful island “Isola bella” translates to “beautiful island” in English from Italian. And the natural beauty of Anna Maria Island is what prompted Sicilian-born Alessandra Salafia to name her family’s Marina Drive restaurant after one of her favorite islands off Italy’s northern coast. The Islander chatted with Salafia June 16 and learned she and her moriarty family traded one island — and country — for another when they moved here from Sicily in 2017 after learning about AMI online. She and her husband, Gianfranco Santagati, opened Isola Bella a few months after moving here in May 2017 and, in 2019, received a “Best Of” award from online review site TripAdvisor. They quickly formed a famiglia with employees and patrons, ensuring diners get a fine meal and a friendly Italian experience, Salafia said. In Italy, meals are meant to be an experience savored with loved ones. And Salafia and Santagati keep the tradition alive at Isola Bella, encouraging diners to relax, savor and linger at their table. The eatery — open 5-9 p.m. Monday-Saturday — seats about 50 people, while another 30 guests can be accommodated on the “amazing garden” terrace, where Salafie grows many of the herbs used in the restaurant kitchen. For more information or reservations, go to isola-

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alessandra Salafia, owner of Isola Bella Italian eatery, 5904 marina drive, Holmes Beach, stands with chef matt Shafer June 16. Islander Photo: amy V.T. moriarty

bellafl.com or call 941-242-5309. How about a taste of wine? The Pineapple Marketplace on Pine Avenue in Anna Maria has 30 vendors, including Anna Maria Bath, Anna Maria Coffee/Tea Time and now, new to the market, Anna Maria Island Wine. Owner Angela Long specializes in products made in Florida, including salts harvested from our beaches and wine and beers made locally. To celebrate the opening of her new wine shop, Long is hosting a free wine tasting — sip and shop — 3-7 p.m. Friday, July 2. Five wines will be offered for tasting. Regular hours at the marketplace are MondaySaturday 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sunday 11 a.m.-5 p.m.. Picture perfect Hey shutterbugs, the Anna Maria Island Chamber

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Thursday, June 24 6 p.m. — Manatee Chamber of Commerce 58th annual Dinner and Fourth annual Robert P. Bartz Award for Outstanding Leadership honoring Amanda and John Horne, Bradenton Area Convention Center, 1 Haben Blvd., Palmetto. Reservations required. Fees may apply. Information: 941-748-3411. Thursday, June 24 3 p.m. — Longboat Key Chamber of Commerce Disaster Preparedness Zoominar. Tuesday, June 29 5:30 p.m. — Longboat Key Chamber of Commerce Business after Hours, Cedar’s Cafe & Tiki Bar, 645 Cedars Court, Longboat Key. Fees may apply. Information: longboatkeychamber.com, 941387-9000.

of Commerce is accepting photo submissions for a 2022 wall calendar. Chamber president Terri Kinder told The Islander June 17 it will be the first calendar they’ve done since 2017. They thought it would be fun to use photos submitted by people like you. “We get so many people sending us photos all the time,” Kinder said. “We thought it would be awesome” to use submitted photos for the calendar. Photos must be high-resolution and submitted by email to info@amichamber.org by July 30. A calendar committee will choose the photos to be featured by Aug. 18. The calendar will be sold at the chamber office, 5313 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, and through their website beginning in October. For more information, go to annamariaislandchamber.org or call the office at 941-778-1541. While you’re out snapping photos, we’ll be gathering business news. Please, share with us. If you’ve got business news, contact Amy Moriarty at amym@islander.org or call 941-778-7978.

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In appreciation for 25 years of service to the manatee county Tourist development council, ed chiles was set to receive an engraved compass and leather case at the June 21 Tdc meeting, after The Islander went to press. Islander Photo: courtesy BacVB/ monica Luff

AMI toURIsM: endless season TDC celebrating island businessman

Ed Chiles has served on the Manatee County Tourist Development Council for 25 years. For his quarter century of service, the TDC planned to celebrate Chiles at a June 21 meeting, giving him a compass with an inscription: “Ed, With grateful appreciation for 25 years of dedicated service to the Manatee County Tourist Development Council 1996-2021.” Chiles’ honor is “well deserved, he’s been such a leader in his tenure on the TDC,” Elliott Falcione told chiles The Islander June 15. Falcione is the executive director of the Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau, the marketing arm of the TDC. The TDC also was scheduled to hear a report from Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport COO Mark Stuckey regarding operations as pandemic-related travel restrictions continue to loosen. Additionally, Falcione was to present a two-year budget and marketing plan, including for tourismrelated capital improvements. Also on the agenda: Anne Wittine of Quantitative

Research Data Services was set to present a report detailing tourist tax collections for April and May, as well review traveler surveys. The next meeting of the TDC, which directs funds raised from a 5% bed tax on accommodations of six months or less, will be at 9 a.m. Monday, Aug. 16, at the Manatee County administration building, 1112 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton. — amy V.T. moriarty

elizabeth Shore, right, welcomes members of the anna maria Island chamber of commerce to Bunny & Pirates June 10. The next chamber event will be at 5 p.m. Thursday, June 24, at Island mail and Print, 3230 e. Bay drive, Holmes Beach. Islander Photos: courtesy amIcofc/Laura micciche claire Heckle of Img academy golf club, far left, shares a table June 10 with Kelly “moulan” Sparkman and maryann “maz” Zyla of the anna maria Island Privateers and marlene masson and Katy demick of anna maria Island Resorts. Bunny & Pirates hosted the anna maria Island chamber of commerce June luncheon.

Business news

Planning new services? New in business? Celebrating achievements? Staff deserves kudos? Submit to news@islander.org. Please, remember to include a contact number and name.

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Page 28 THE ISLANDER | islander.org June 23, 2021 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

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

ANNOUNCEMENTS

HELP WANTED Continued

edgeRS: concReTe for walkways, garden, like new, 50 cents, car roof rack, $45, chandelier, hardware Included, $50. 941-920-2494.

WanTed: WoRKouT dVds and retired but working XBox, Wii units with games for ministry of Presence for kids and teens in Haiti. deliver to The Islander, 315 58th St. Suite J, Holmes Beach.

LBK cHuRcH needS an individual to run PowerPoint and microphones for Sunday service, 9:15 to 11:15 a.m. great weekend income. call 941-383-0468.

KeYBoaRdS and mouSe, $10, coffeemaker, cuisinart, 12-cup, black, like new, $15. 941-9202494.

WanTed: YouR oLd cellphone for recycling. deliver to The Islander, 315 58th St. Suite J, Holmes Beach.

anTIQue PaRTneR deSK: all wood, $1,000. $500. Inquire at The Islander office, 315 58th St. Suite J, Holmes Beach. 941-778-7978.

FRee gun LocK courtesy of Project childsafe, Florida Fish and Wildlife conservation commission and Holmes Beach Police department. Pick up at The Islander office, 315 58th St. Suite J, Holmes Beach. don’t be sorry, be safe.

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.

Sandy’s Lawn Service Inc. ESTABLISHED IN 1983

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

Paradise Improvements

941.792.5600

Kitchen and Bath Remodeling Specialist Replacement Doors and Windows

Andrew Chennault

FULLY LICENSED AND INSURED Island References Lic#CBC056755 CBC 1253471

RDI CONSTRUCTION INC. Residential & Condo Renovations Kitchens • Bath • Design Service Carpentry • Flooring • Painting Commercial & Residential

References available • 941-720-7519

AdoptA-Pet

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

HeLP ReScued PeTS! Volunteer, foster, computer help needed! moonracer animal Rescue. email: moonraceranimalrescue@gmail.com.

BOATS & BOATING

SERVICES

noTIce oF PuBLIc sale: morland marine gives notice of Foreclosure of Lien and intent to sell this vessel: 1995 Wellcraft 238c. Hin: WeLFFB60K495 10 a.m. on July 3, 2021, at 2123 university Parkway, Sarasota, FL 34233, pursuant to subsection 328.17, Florida Statutes. morland marine reserves the right to accept or reject any/or all bids.

need a RIde to airports? Tampa $65, St. Pete, $55, Sarasota, $30. gary, 863-409-5875. gvoness80@gmail.com.

HELP WANTED

BIcYcLe RePaIRS. JuST4Fun at 5358 gulf drive. We can do all types of bicycle repairs. Flat tires to new builds. We pick up and deliver. Quick response and reasonably priced. 941-896-7884.

HeLP WanTed: LandScaPe design company looking to hire. Quick raises, bonuses, working outdoors. call drew, 941-301-8366 for more information.

IS YouR Home or office in need of some spring cleaning? Well, I’m your girl! Local, reliable, professional! Please, give me a call or text, 941-773 -0461.

cHeF: VISITIng FamILY of six (four adults, two children) is looking for a chef to prepare three meals a day and clean up the week of dec. 27 to Jan. 3. Send resume, references, and salary required to: chef, 3307 e Wasatch Pines Lane, Sandy, uT 84092.

LooKIng FoR a housecleaner? Look no further. Sand & Sea cleaning is the team for you. 941-226-2773.

couLd You uSe extra fun money to spend? out of school for summer? our amI beach resort is searching for summer team members. contact us at beckyjhardy1@msn.com for all those details!

cLeanIng: VacaTIon, conSTRucTIon, residential, commercial and windows. Licensed and insured. 941-744-7983.

more ads = more readers in The Islander. Honey is 5 years old. She is up to date with vaccinations, spayed and looking for a loving family. To meet this sweetie, call Lisa Williams at 941-345-2441 or visit The Islander ofﬁce in Holmes Beach. For more about pet adoption or to adopt Honey, visit moonraceranimalrescue.com.

KIDS FOR HIRE

KIdS FoR HIRe ads are FRee for up to three weeks for Island youths under 16 looking for work. ads must be placed in person at The Islander office, 315 58th St. Suite J, Holmes Beach.

PETS

FREEBIE ITEMS FOR SALE IndIVIduaLS maY PLace one free ad with up to three items, each priced $100 or less, 15 words or less. FRee, one week, must be submitted online. email classifieds@islander.org, fax tollfree 1-866-362-9821. (limited time offer)

RePoRTeR WanTed: Full- to part-time. Print media, newspaper experience required. apply via email with letter of interest to news@islander. org.

Chantelle Lewin

Broker Associate Licensed since 1983

HandYman and cLeanIng services. move-ins and outs. affordable. call Fred, 941-356-1456.

PReSSuRe WaSHIng, PaVeR sealing, driveway, roof, fence, pool area. also, window cleaning. Licensed and insured. 941-565-3931.

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.

—

Chantelle

We TWeeT TOO

941.713.1449