The Islander Newspaper E-Edition: Wednesday, February 17, 2021 by The Anna Maria Islander Newspaper

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Mote baits hook for marine center at Anna Maria pier

Hb extends mask mandate. 4

Meetings. 4 COVID-19 vacs ramp up. 5 Distinguished citizens named in Anna Maria. 5

Opinions. 6 10-20 YeArs Ago

Looking back. 7

DOT gives reasons to ramp up bridge plan. 8 Phase 2 work begins at Coquina beach. 9

RoadWatch. 9

The Anna Maria City Commission is exploring options for the vacant building on the south side of the T-end that was built to house a restaurant. Commissioners and the mayor are collecting opinions from the public. Islander Photo: Jack elka by Amy V.T. Moriarty Islander Reporter

Did you hear the cheers? A proposal for a marine discovery center on the Anna Maria City Pier caught a wave Happenings of enthusiasm Feb. 10 from city officials and Announcements. 11 also interested citizens planning to make their own pitches. AM sets 2021 vacation rental fees. 12 Mote Marine Laboratory floated the idea of opening an outreach-marine life educa‘friends’ rescue pelicans tion center in the vacant building on the at Skyway pier. 13 south side of the T-end of the new pier. Anna Maria commissioners held a Gathering 14 public meeting Feb. 10 on the pier to discuss options for the 1,800-square foot building, Obituaries. 14 one of two buildings on the pier at 100 N. GoodDeeds. 15 Bay Blvd., Anna Maria. The pier was built after the historic pier Where’s Tuna Street? was damaged by Hurricane Irma in 2017 and 16-17 demolished. Prior to that, the larger of the Save a date. 10

festive days in Hb. 18 K-kids quarantined. 19

Streetlife. 20 Complaints aired about causeway horses. 22

New whale species. 23 KRC men’s champ. 24 fishing bounty. 25 Isl biz bustles. 26

PropertyWatch. 27 CLASSIFIEDS. 28

NYT puzzle.

space. The Mote center would include exhibits showcasing local marine life, said Barniskis. Based in Sarasota, Mote also operates exhibits and discovery centers in other areas of Florida, including Key West and Islamorada. A Mote center on the pier would serve as a lab to study marine life and the surrounding ecosystem. The lab “will help scientists learn and predict red tide activity while engaging the community directly to be active volunteer citizen scientists,” Crosby said. The buildout would cost about $500,000 and take five months, Crosby said. And, he said, the funding for the center would fall to the city. And commissioners appeared to support TuRN TO pier, PAge 2

Pedestrian killed, hit-and-run suspect surrenders by Ryan Paice Islander Reporter

A pedestrian died on Gulf Drive Feb. 10 and a Holmes Beach resident accused of striking her with a Chevy Trailblazer surrendered to police the next day. Cierra Shannon, 27, turned herself into the Bradenton Police Department Feb. 11 around 4:45 p.m. after leaving the scene of a Gulf Drive hit-and-run crash the night before that resulted in the death of 83-yearold Madelyn Dakin. Shannon was placed in custody and charged with a first-degree felony for failing to remain at the scene of a crash that resulted in death. The charge carries a fouryear minimum mandatory prison sentence if she is found guilty. The incident occurred around 7 p.m.

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two buildings at the T-end of the pier housed a full-service restaurant and another housed a bar and bait shop and restrooms. The new smaller building now houses the City Pier Grill & Bait Shop, co-owned by Brian Seymour, Nick Graham and Vic Mattay, who also have businesses on Pine Avenue in Anna Maria. The second building remains vacant after several attempts by the city to contract a restaurant operator. At the Feb. 10 meeting, staged in the vacant building, as piergoers dined outside at picnic tables and anglers cast their lines from the deck, commissioners and others sat on folding chairs to mull ideas. Mote representatives — Michael Crosby, president and CEO; Evan Barniskis, vice president of the aquarium; and Aly Busse, vice president of education — presented their plan to partner with the city on the

in the 2700 block of Gulf Drive in Holmes Beach, according to Holmes Beach Police Chief Bill Tokajer. Dakin, a Michigan resident who was vacationing in Holmes Beach with Shannon her husband of 67 years, Gerald, was pronounced dead by emergency medical services soon after they arrived at the scene. “Multiple witnesses stopped and advised that a thin-built, blonde female, approximately in her 20s, was observed beside the victim and frantically shaking her, asking other witnesses for help,” a probable cause affidavit for the incident states. “One witness advised that the defendant made multiple statements that she needed

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to leave because she was in a hurry or she needed to pick up her mother before eventually getting back in her vehicle and leaving the scene.” Tokajer said the witnesses, as well as the city’s license plate recognition system, helped them identify Shannon, the daughter of the vehicle’s registered owner, as the driver. “There were witnesses at the scene that were able to tell us the type of vehicle, the color of the vehicle and describe the driver to us,” Tokajer said. “We then went to our license plate recognition system for the time period and found a vehicle that matched the description given and got a tag from that match.” The Holmes Beach Police Department TuRN TO Hit-and-rUn, PAge 2

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pier CONTINueD fROM PAge 1

the financial challenge. And it might not be too big a challenge. Manatee County Commissioner Misty Servia, who also chairs the county tourist development council, attended the meeting. “The TDC is definitely a resource they could turn to,” Servia said Feb. 11 in a phone interview with The Islander. The TDC makes recommendations to the Manatee County Board of County Commissioners regarding projects in the tourist development plan and has the final say on how tourist development tax revenue is spent. “I love Mote’s mission. I love the idea, it’s just a great opportunity,” Servia said. “If we can leverage our tourist tax dollars and do something to help protect our waters and educate residents and visitors, why wouldn’t we?” After the buildout, the ongoing expense to the city would be the cost of utilities, while Mote would be responsible for the $500,000 estimated annual operations cost, Crosby said. Servia wasn’t the only one on board with Mote. City Commissioner Joe Muscatello said at the meeting if a vote was called, he would cast his in favor of the project. But the meeting was a workshop, an opportunity for city commissioners and others to review five proposals. Another idea is to rent out the space for special events — holiday parties, dances, presentations, expositions, art shows and celebrations. But, Mayor Dan Murphy said, weddings would not be permitted due to the associated logistics. Another idea is a full-service restaurant. However, commissioners said that had been pursued and declined for a number of reasons. Creating space for a gift or souvenir shop is another option. And a fifth option would include a mixed-use of

Hit-and-rUn CONTINueD fROM PAge 1

Michael Crosby, at the podium, president and CeO of Mote Marine Laboratory in Sarasota, outlines a plan feb. 10 to bring a marine outreach center to the Anna Maria City Pier, 100 N. bay blvd., Anna Maria. City Commissioner Mark Short, seated, listens. Islander Photo: Amy V.T. Moriarty

the building. Commissioners and others, including Graham and Seymour, the operators of the bait shop and takeout restaurant on the pier, favored the Mote partnership. But Murphy said jumping at the first good idea

and the BPD launched a search for Shannon and the vehicle, a 2006 silver Chevrolet Trailblazer, before receiving a call from her lawyer. “The attorney contacted us and told us that he would give us the location of the vehicle and that she would turn herself in,” Tokajer said. Police recovered the vehicle from a wooded area at the Florida Institute for Saltwater Heritage Preserve in Cortez. The vehicle was impounded and processed for evidence. The incident marks the first island traffic fatality since 80-year-old Canadian resident Marion Timmins, who also was visiting the island, was killed in January 2018 when she and her husband, William, on their way to the beach, were hit by an SUV while crossing Gulf Drive near Guava Street in Holmes Beach. Shannon was represented by attorney Ronald Filipkowski at a first appearance Feb. 12, when 12th Judicial Circuit Judge Jacqueline Steele ordered supervised release, no alcohol consumption and $15,000 bond. HBPD stated on its probable cause affidavit that Shannon was employed by Paradise Boat Tours in Bradenton Beach. She also has several recorded traffic infractions, including a charge for running a stop sign Feb. 8, and had been judged guilty of DUI with property damage in 2015 and received probation, according to Manatee County court records. to come along would be irresponsible and he wants options fully considered. “A lot of input and thought is needed from the public and commission,” Murphy said. Another meeting to discuss the pier options will be at 11 a.m. Wednesday, Feb. 17, on the pier. People with suggestions for the building’s use can attend the meeting or email Murphy at ammayor@cityofannamaria.com or call 941-708-6130, ext. 124.

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Q&A 021721

Bridge battle. 4

The Islander poll

MARCH 18, 2020 FREE

VOLUME 28, NO. 21 Astheworldterns work on social distancing. 6

Last week’s results Groundhog Punxsutawney Phil saw his shadow, meaning six more weeks of winter. Do you care? 35%, Hey Northerners: Ha, ha! 23%, Hoping for early spring warmth. 23%, Winter and spring are both lovely on AMI. 13%, Love the cooler weather. 6%, Other. 0%, Need more winter to prepare for spring. This week’s question Pirates are set to play ball later this month in Bradenton. What’s the best thing about spring training? A. Watching a game. B. Bumping into players, coaches on AMI. C. Retelling stories about MLB legends on the island. D. Catching a foul ball at the park. E. All of the above. To take the poll, go online to islander.org.

Make a note: Order my 2021 calendar! The new Jack Elka 2021 calendar is available at The Islander office, 3218 E. Bay Drive, Holmes Beach, or by mail order at

She sells seashells streetside

Meetings. 4 Census invites mailed. 4

Opinions. 6 10-20 YEARS AGO

Looking back. 7

MCAT touts tracking tech. 8

RoadWatch. 8 Legislature lingers amid COVID-19 concerns. 9

The Best News on Anna Maria Island Since 1992

islander.org

COVID-19 cautions spark cancellations pandemic. Calls came into The Islander’s newspaThe datebook got messy. per ofﬁce. March 12 was the day Anna Maria Notices arrived via email to editors’ Island groups and institutions announced accounts. the ﬁrst round of event cancellations, taking And posts popped up on Facebook. precautions and safeguards as COVID-19, First with a notice, the Artists’ Guild the new coronavirus, was declared a global Gallery in Holmes Beach decided to cancel By Lisa Neff Islander Editor

the March 13 artists’ reception and paintaround fundraiser to help the nonproﬁt group raise rent money for the gallery. “I am sorry to bring you this news,” Sharon Tarras, AGAMI president said, citing “health risks posed by the coronavirus.” Soon after, Island Gallery West in PLEASE, SEE CANCELLATIONS, PAGE 2

AM hears pleas, revises building moratorium. 9

Happenings Announcements.

Check the date. School canceled until March 30. Where’s Tuna Street?

islander.org or jackelka.com.

Pier planning. 5

Polling, results. 3

Gathering. Artist’s Guild seeks financial help.

GoodDeeds. HB ramps up for spring break.

Streetlife. County discusses Coquina trees.

Sunny, hot and keep your distance. Sports on AMI. Fishing runs hot for spring breakers.

ISL BIZ Buying, selling, opening on AMI.

PropertyWatch. Classifieds.

NYT puzzle.

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led

Rebecca Boughner of Fort Wayne, Indiana, exits the Artists’ Guild Gallery after browsing March 12. The gallery, operated by the Artists’ Guild of Anna Maria Island in the Island Shopping Center at 5414 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, canceled its reception and fundraiser March 13 due to concerns about COVID-19. Islander Photo: Lisa Neff

Cedar Cove Resort and Cottages, 2710 Gulf Drive N., Holmes Beach, had no vacancies March 13, as spring breakers continued to arrive on Anna Maria Island. Islander Courtesy Photo: Alan Sneed

State, cities take measures against COVID-19 COVID-19 challenges By Ryan Paice state employees. Islander Reporter He also recommended local municipal- local, state tourism From the NBA to Anna Maria Island, the impact of COVID-19 is being felt almost everywhere. The state, county and all three cities on Anna Maria Island are taking precautions to prevent the spread of the new coronavirus, which had infected 136 Florida residents and resulted in four deaths in the state as of March 16, according to the Florida Department of Health. Four conﬁrmed cases of the coronavirus had been reported in Manatee County as of March 16. And, with 514 pending test results in the state on that date, the race to counter the virus was underway. Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis suspended nonessential travel March 12 for 30 days for

ities cancel mass gatherings. Some health agencies have described mass gatherings as 1,000 or more but others have said 50 or more people. DeSantis, who declared a state of emergency for COVID-19 by executive order March 9, said in a news release the state ordered an additional 2,500 test kits for the virus, allowing the health department to test up to 625,000 people. Manatee County commissioners also were set to consider declaring a state of emergency by executive order March 16, after The Islander’s press deadline. The county canceled workshops set for March 17 but said other events would be held and buildings would be open. That

PLEASE, SEE STATE, CITIES, PAGE 3

By Sandy Ambrogi Islander Reporter

It seems if it’s not one thing it’s another. Tourism on Anna Maria Island bounced back after the red tide siege of 2018 and outperformed previous years of resort tax collections, but now businesses are facing the coronavirus crisis — COVID-19. Elliott Falcione, executive director of the Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau, has weathered hurricanes, red tides and other disruptions to the ﬂow of business in Manatee County. Now he is negotiating messages dealing with a novel virus with no precedent. “We are communicating daily with PLEASE, SEE TOURISM, PAGE 5

A pandemic reaches paradise EatHereFlorida.com (941) 778-0411 5315 Gulf Drive • Holmes Beach

On March 18, 2020, the front page of The Islander carries the news that the coronavirus pandemic is impacting Anna Maria Island, changing ways of living, conducting business and safeguarding health. The Islander invites readers to share remembrances of that month and the past year in words and/or photos. How did you adjust for work and routine? How did you find joy and peach? How did you cope with loss? And how did you maintain relationships? What did you teach your children? And what did your children teach you? Share your reflections in an email to The Islander at news@islander.org.

Entrepreneurs Vivien Tupin, 7, and Sophia Smith, 7, hold signs Feb. 7 promoting their streetside seashell store on 124th Street Court West in Cortez. “Vivien & Sophia’s Store!” opened Feb. 6 offering crystals and the shells the girls paint after collection at Beer Can Island on Longboat Key and Coquina Beach in Bradenton Beach. Vivien and Sophia said they went into business to earn money for visits to the “Dollar store” and Tyler’s Homemade Ice Cream in Cortez. Islander Photo: Kane Kaiman

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Mask mandate continued indefinitely in Holmes Beach By ChrisAnn Allen Islander Reporter

Holmes Beach officials want to keep the city safe. And they’ve spent almost a year coping with concerns over the spread of the novel coronavirus. City commissioners unanimously voted Feb. 9 to indefinitely extend the mask ordinance. The virus spreads in droplets in the air through contact with people within 6 feet and public health experts, since last spring, have urged people to wear face coverings. City officials first approved an emergency order in June 2020 mandating face coverings when social distancing cannot be maintained, with exceptions. During the Feb. 9 meeting, Commissioner Kim Rash asked if the recent availability of vaccinations could change the matter. “With all the vaccines, would we be ready to get back to a normal life before then?” he asked. Commissioner Carol Soustek said, “That is an unknown factor.” “We just need to continue to do practices and continue to be safe. No matter if you’ve had the vaccine, no matter if you’ve had the booster shot. That just means you are protected but that does not mean you can’t transmit it to someone else,” she said, adding that she thanks Mayor Judy Titsworth for continuing the extension of the ordinance for public safety. Commission Chair Jim Kihm suggested extending the measure to Sept. 30. “Even though the number of doses is going up, I think this next week they are looking at 5,000 doses, we still have 100,000 people in the county that are 65

Holmes Beach elected officials and staff discuss the extension of a city mask ordinance Feb. 9. Islander Photo: ChrisAnn Allen

and older that are in the pool to be vaccinated,” he said. “So, there is still quite a large population. I think we would all benefit by extending the mask ordinance and revisiting it in September.” Commissioner Terry Schaefer agreed, but suggested the ordinance indefinitely be continued. “I think we should extend this mask ordinance until science tells us it is no longer necessary,” he said. City attorney Patricia Petruff said the emergency ordinance expires March 1, so a regular ordinance would be the best route. Kihm suggested leaving the end date open, based on the progression or de-evolution of COVID-19.

$9K remains for island food assistance By Ryan Paice Islander Reporter

Money drives the island food assistance program. A $30,000 donation has contributed almost two months worth of Roser Food Pantry’s Sponsored Food Recipient Program. And there’s still some money in the tank. Roser Food Pantry chair Jack Brennan told The Islander Feb. 12 that $8,000-$9,000 remained from the $30,000 check it received from the Mayors Feed the Hungry program last December to help fund operations. Last year, Manatee County granted $450,000 in U.S. Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act funds to the Mayors Feed the Hungry program to support its local efforts to feed the hungry. Island nonprofits were left without relief funds until December, when the Mayors Feed the Hungry program allocated $30,000 of its funding to Roser Food Pantry and $3,000 to All Island Denominations, the group representing the island churches. Brennan said the money has been used to fund the Sponsored Food Recipient Program, which allows people to anonymously seek food assistance if they

are approved for support by sponsors from the island’s churches. He said recipients of the program receive $100$150 Publix gift cards every month for around three months before sponsors must approve another round of assistance. “It’s basically identifying people in the marketplace — workers and/or residents — that find it difficult, either out of pride or something else, to come to the food pantry for assistance,” Brennan said. “We’ve been giving them a Publix gift card once a month for whatever the sponsor decides is their need.” More than 20 people were enlisted in the program as of Feb. 12, according to Brennan. He said the program should continue to feed off the remaining donation money through April or May. “It’s been great,” Brennan said. “We’ve gotten very nice donations and we’re happy to bring this program to the island and its workers.” The Roser pantry is across the street from Roser Memorial Community Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. For more information about the pantry, call the church at 941-778-0414.

Meetings

Manatee County Anna Maria City Feb. 17, 1:30 p.m., commission. Feb. 17, 11 a.m., pier workshop (city pier). Feb. 18, 1:30 a.m., commission (budget). Feb. 22, 2 p.m., planning and zoning. Feb. 23, 9 a.m., commission. Feb. 25, 6 p.m., commission. Administration building, 1112 Manatee Ave W, Anna Maria City Hall, 10005 Gulf Drive, 941Bradenton, 941-748-4501, mymanatee.org. 708-6130, cityofannamaria.com. Bradenton Beach Feb. 17, 9:15 a.m., commission. Feb. 18, noon, commission. Feb. 24, 9:15 a.m., commission. Bradenton Beach City Hall, 107 Gulf Drive N., 941-778-1005, cityofbradentonbeach.com.

Of interest Feb. 22, 9:30 a.m., Sarasota/Manatee Metropolitan Planning Organization, Bradenton Area Convention Center, 1 Haben Blvd., Palmetto. Information: 941-359-5772. — Lisa Neff

Editor’s note: Some meetings may be conducted Holmes Beach virtually and some in-person and virtual. Feb. 23, 6 p.m., commission. Please, send meeting notices to calendar@ Holmes Beach City Hall, 5801 Marina Drive, islander.org and news@islander.org. 941-708-5800, holmesbeachfl.org.

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“I agree with Commissioner Soustek that having a mask ordinance has really helped our city and our visitors to stay safer than not having a mandatory mask ordinance,” Kihm said. The commission reached consensus not to put a date on how long the extension will last. “Keep in mind, if things change and you want to rescind it, any one of you can bring it to a city commission meeting,” Titsworth said. The next city commission meeting will be at 6 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 23, at city hall, 5801 Marina Drive and via Zoom, with instructions on the city website at holmesbeachfl.org.

HB moves to change board appointments Holmes Beach is seeking clarity. City commissioners unanimously approved Feb. 9 the first reading of an ordinance clarifying appointments to the planning commission. City attorney Patricia Petruff added language stating planning commissioners shall not hold another elected or appointed public office or committee “membership” within the city and striking “position” from the original ordinance. “This is just clarifying the requirements to serve,” Commission Chair Jim Kihm said Feb. 9. Commissioner Terry Schaefer prompted discussion of the matter in November 2020 when Sean Murphy — operator of three businesses in the city — applied as a planning commissioner. He is a member of the city’s police pension board. The second public hearing and final reading of the ordinance will be at the commission meeting at 6 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 23, at city hall, 5801 Marina Drive, and electronically via Zoom, with instructions on an agenda on the city website at holmesbeachfl.org. — ChrisAnn Allen

… And HB approves joint council meetings Holmes Beach wants the freedom to work with Manatee County on issues of concern. City commissioners Feb. 9 unanimously approved a resolution authorizing commissioners to participate in meetings with the council of governments “to discuss and plan matters of mutual interest.” The Manatee council meets quarterly to promote positive relations and discuss concerns within the county. The council consists of representatives from local governments and districts. City attorney Patricia Petruff said Feb. 9 that the resolution annually occurs, but the new resolution allows for flexible meeting dates. “It’s pretty straight-forward, we do this every year,” Kihm said. The next Holmes Beach City Commission meeting will be at 6 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 23, at city hall, 5801 Marina Drive, and also held electronically via Zoom, with instructions on the city website at holmesbeachfl. org. — ChrisAnn Allen

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Covid-19 vaccinations ramp up, case numbers stabilize assist with scheduling appointments with seniors who are already in our vaccination pool when those sites Relief is coming. come to Manatee County.” Hopefully. The list of Florida pharmacy stores offering vacA vaccine for the novel coronavirus soon might cine appointments continues to grow from Publix to cease to be a novelty. include Winn-Dixie, Walmart and Sam’s Club. CVS For a third consecutive week, 5,100 COVID-19 and Walgreens also are expected to begin vaccinavaccination doses were planned in Manatee County, tions. according to county spokesman Nick Azzara. The county’s 311 call center staff Feb. 11 began to In the numbers inform registered people about appointments for the As of Feb. 11, at least 34,083 county residents week of Feb. 15. received at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine. Eligibility for the vaccine in Florida includes seniors Also as of Feb. 11, there were 156,254 seniors in 65 and older, health care workers with direct patient the county’s vaccine standby pool. contact and assisted living facility residents and staff. The state, as of Feb. 11, had vaccinated 960,034 Proof of Florida residency is required. people with both doses of a vaccine — up from 273,249 County offices were closed Feb. 15 for Presidents the week prior. Day, but appointments for the vaccine were booked by Between Feb. 1-11, 30,118 cases of the virus were the Florida Department of Health-Manatee and Mana- reported in Manatee County since March 2020. tee County Public Safety officials at Tom Bennett Park, As of Feb. 11, 176 people in Holmes Beach, 75 400 Cypress Creek Blvd., Bradenton. people in Bradenton Beach and 53 people in Anna Those who received a first dose Jan. 21 were to Maria had tested positive for COVID-19 since March receive their second shot Feb. 15, as The Islander went 2020 — an increase of 19 cases compared with the to press. week prior. Those who received a first dose Jan. 22 were to receive their second dose Feb. 16. First dose appointments in Bennett Park were being set for Feb. 18-19. Manatee County does not oversee the distribution of vaccines to local pharmacies and hospitals or other privately offered agencies, but officials are keeping the county’s vaccine homepage current with updates from official sources and links to private registry sites. “I am aware through the governor’s office that state teams are working to start pop-up vaccine sites in our area,” public safety director Jacob Saur said in a news release. “These vaccine sites will be overseen by the state, but Manatee County Public Safety is ready to by ChrisAnn Allen Islander Reporter

According to metrics provided by the DOH-Manatee, as of Feb. 1, 335 people tested positive for the virus in Manatee County since March 1, 2020, with 1,303 hospitalizations as of Feb. 11, compared with 1,261 hospitalizations at the end of January. Fatalities have totaled 547 — an increase of 52 deaths since Feb. 1. Of those testing positive, 574 were nonresidents, compared with 518 the week prior. Getting help Vaccination location sites, including required information to join the vaccination pool, are listed at floridahealthcovid19.gov. Additionally, people can visit vax.mymanatee.org and the county has provided 311 operators, available 8 a.m.-5 p.m. weekdays, to take information. For more information about pharmacy vaccinations, check these sites: • Walmart, walmart.com/COVIDvaccine; • Winn-Dixie, winndixie.com/pharmacy/covidvaccine • Sam’s Club, samsclub.com/covid; • Publix, publix.com/covid-vaccine. Charles Wade, left, joins Roberta and Carl Augostini in Anna Maria in December. Islander file Photo: ChrisAnn Allen

Lynn brennan, right, and her husband Jack are named “exceptional volunteers” at Roser Memorial Community Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. They were recognized during a church celebration Nov. 17, 2019. Islander file Photo

‘Distinguished citizens’ named in Anna Maria

Holmes beach Police Officer Adam DeSantis, left, and Sgt. brian Copeman stand watch feb. 13, ensuring people wore masks at an arts-and-crafts festival at city field. Islander Photo: ChrisAnn Allen

#AMItogether #AMItogether #AMItogether #AMItogether #AMItogether #AMItogether #AMItogether #AMItogether

Anna Maria has a bounty of honorable citizens. The Anna Maria Distinguished Citizen Committee Feb. 9 unanimously voted to award two residents the honor of 2020 Citizen of the Year. Carl Augostini of Spring Avenue and Lynn Brennan of Oak Avenue will receive their awards at a reception “held prior to an upcoming city commission meeting,” city administrative assistant Stephanie Janney said Feb. 9. The date was not set by The Islander press time. Committee members Bob Carter, Doug Copeland and Marsha McAllister agreed naming two recipients did not diminish the award because they are deserving.

Augostini was nominated by his neighbor, Ernest Broderson, for his generosity of time and effort rebuilding bicycles for donation to island folks, as well as using his engineering expertise to repair neighbors’ golf carts and scooters while “never asking for compensation.” In nominating Brennan, Patricia Walter cited her longtime dedication to assisting Anna Maria residents in need through involvement with almost every volunteer organization in the city. Two nominees were Jimmy Malfese of Alamanda Road, nominated by Tripp Sebring, and Joan and Carl Voyles of Loquat Drive, nominated by Carol Carter. — Amy V.T. Moriarty

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Opinion

Our

Cheers, to better days

We all face challenges in our daily lives. Sometimes it’s simply lifting ourselves out of bed to face another day. We also celebrate accomplishments, grieve our losses, hope for good news — a vaccine for you and me — and revel in the small things, the bursts of good luck, like finding a penny on the ground. We dread the late-night phone call or text, as it may bring bad news, and we relish the call from a friend who shares good news. Such was the past week for me. A yo-yo of ups and downs. A roller-coaster ride. A rose from a friend for Valentine’s Day. A sweet sunset, a brilliant sunrise, a little rain for the garden, a tough trip to the Blake ER for high blood pressure and news that a friend died. Melissa Williams was a great friend to me and to The Islander newspaper. She was a top cheerleader for the paper, always willing to pitch in with ideas, graphics and good recommendations to her cluster of advertising clients. We met some 20-plus years ago when she came aboard to do advertising production. As she struck out on her own, I did my own cheering for her new business. We conspired, consulted, shared holidays and mingled for drinks and dinner often — along with Frank, her adoring, adorable, charming husband. Frank held the key to Melissa’s heart, but she shielded her pain and left us in shock. But, as I often tell friends, hold dear the good memories and let the rest go — let sadness go like a handful of sand in the wind. Cherish the moments you shared that filled the sky with sunshine. Melissa helped many people and organizations on AMI achieve their goals and I hope they fondly recall her beautiful smile and the goodness in her heart. I do. And so I’ll finish this with the sad reality that one of our treasured visitors was a victim of a horrific car crash. She was 83 years old, married 67 years, and her husband was walking with her at about 7 p.m. when she was struck on Gulf Drive. Maybe they’d been out to dinner or enjoyed the sunset. They were guests at a small motel nearby. It is the saddest vacation I could imagine and I hope her family accepts my most sincere condolences. As the tragedy unfolds for the victim’s loved ones, the family of the driver who stopped and fled also will share the sorrow of Feb. 10. There is no comfort knowing it will forever be a nightmare for the driver. I wish for better days. How about you? — bonner Joy, news@islander.org

FEB 17, 2021 • Vol. 29, No. 17 ▼ ▼

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We give three cheers to the Mote Marine Lab proposal for a discovery center at the Anna Maria City Pier!

Opinion

Your

Holmes Beach’s business

You may or may not know that there is a site plan for review before the Holmes Beach City Commission. The city is spending many tax dollars towards the planner and assistant planner salaries, attorney fees and staff salaries to entertain the idea of allowing one business to have 284 patrons in an outdoor venue and 92 parking spaces spread among five addresses. That is a whopping increase — 49% — over the current allowable occupancy at this business and all of the addresses are adjacent to a residential zone. To add insult to injury, multiple staff members are turning the recipients of the potential negative impact of this plan — the residents — from “victims” to “offenders” by saying, “You knew this was a commercial zone when you moved here.” I do not believe for one second that any resident moving to a residential zone ever thought that they would live next to an enterprise with such an intensity — not in Holmes Beach. If you live in Holmes Beach and care about maintaining the character of the city, please, let the city know how you feel and remember how the votes fall on this issue when election time rolls around. Margie Motzer, Holmes Beach

Standing ‘up’ for the draw “This is my 3-year-old grandson gabriel and you have never seen anyone get as excited as he does when the bridges go up. This is him explaining to anyone on the Cortez bridge who will listen that it is going up. He calls it “uP.” If he hears the sirens for the bridge, he runs to get there in time. It’s funny to watch — he told at least 50 people all about it as they were stopped for the bridge opening.” — Capt. Kim Ibasfalean of Cortez

Skimming online …

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feb. 17, 2021 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 7 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

From the archives

10&20 years ago

In the Feb. 14, 2001, issue:

Marina mall A strip mall — Island Shopping Center — in the 5400 block of Marina Drive in Holmes beach contains storefronts in 1978 for Holmes beach Coin Laundry, Island Realty, Casa De Marita beauty Salon, Island bakery, ernie’s Camera and gift Shop, Adam’s Pub, Mixon Insurance, Jan’s Craft and Hobby Shop, beach Liquor Store and Rich’s beach Drugs.

Guiding visitors A map created for the bradenton Chamber of Commerce in 1940 highlights key roads and points of interest for visitors. Islander Photos: Courtesy Manatee County Public Library System

• Anna Maria City Commissioner Tom Skoloda objected to the method used to take meeting minutes, claiming a summation was a “direct affront to some statements” he made and did not reflect what happened. The deputy clerk said guidelines for minutes derive from Roberts Rules of Order. Commissioners voted 3-2 to have the clerk submit short-form minutes and a transcript. • Holmes Beach and Anna Maria building officials said permit applications for residential docks would be referred to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers because of a federal court ruling in favor of the Save the Manatee Club.

In the Feb. 16, 2011, issue:

• Manatee County natural resources director Charlie Hunsicker returned from a renourishment conference where he learned little state and federal funding for 2014 beach renourishment was available. This would jeopardize island projects. • Bradenton Beach commissioners agreed to hire a contractor to design a project to protect dunes and improve pedestrian access to the Gulf of Mexico at Bridge Street and Third Street South. • Manatee and Sarasota transit agencies reduced operations of the Longboat Key trolley, which operated between Coquina Beach and downtown Sarasota. The service reduction was the first of many. • One, two, … 3,013. Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and the Florida Shorebird Alliance counted shorebirds on Anna Maria Island, part of a larger effort to understand the winter distribution of water birds in the state. — Lisa Neff

We’d love to mail you the news!

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Page 8 THE ISLANDER | islander.org feb. 17, 2021 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

DOT cites ratings in decision to amp up Cortez Bridge project by Kane Kaiman Islander Reporter

One bridge project has leapfrogged another on the calendar. In its latest five-year tentative work program, the Florida Department of Transportation programmed construction of a 65-foot-clearance, fixed-span bridge to replace the 17-foot Cortez bascule bridge that spans the Intracoastal Waterway between Cortez on the mainland and Bradenton Beach on Anna Maria Island. Pending legislative and gubernatorial approval of the plan, the Cortez Road megabridge is expected to be built in 2026-27 — prior to the Manatee Avenue drawbridge replacement with a 65-foot, fixed-span bridge. The groundwork for a new Anna Maria Island Bridge on State Road 64/Manatee Avenue — including the design process — began years before that of the Cortez Bridge, but the Cortez project now takes precedence in the eyes of the DOT. The decision to move forward with the new Cortez Bridge ahead of the Anna Maria Island Bridge is based on the Cortez structure’s condition and continued deterioration, DOT spokesman Brian Rick wrote in a Feb. 10 email to The Islander. The DOT uses sufficiency ratings to evaluate bridges. This metric is based on three factors: • Structural adequacy and safety; • Serviceability and functional obsolescence; • and essentiality for public use. After making special reductions for features like structure type or detour length, the DOT’s district structures maintenance office issues a bridge a rating based on 100 possible points. The Cortez Bridge has a sufficiency rating of 46.6 and the AMI Bridge has a rating of 60. The Cortez Bridge, built in the late 1950s, also is a year older than its counterpart and has a beam design that is more difficult to repair, Rick wrote in the email.

Place portrait photo here

Looking across Sarasota bay and the Intracoastal Waterway feb. 5, the 17-footclearance Cortez bridge carries traffic between Cortez on the mainland and bradenton beach on Anna Maria Island. The A.P. bell fish Co. and the u.S. Coast guard Station Cortez are at the bottom. Islander Photo: Jack elka

“At one point, the Anna Maria Island Bridge was at a lower rating than Cortez and recently, within the last couple of years, we’ve been spending a lot more money on the Cortez Bridge to maintain its structural integrity,” DOT District 1 Secretary LK Nandam said Feb. 9. “So, when we prepared our priorities for bridge replacement last year, Cortez kind of rose above Anna Maria.” “It doesn’t mean that Anna Maria isn’t a priority, too. It is a priority and it is in our 10-year plan,” Nandam added. The DOT’s Cortez Bridge plan faces a challenge in federal court from a coalition of local citizens and nonprofit groups led by former Manatee County Commissioner Joe McClash. The challengers maintain the big bridge will destroy the character of the historic fishing village of Cortez at its eastern terminus and are advocating for a compromise 35-foot-clearance bascule bridge.

There is no pending legal challenge to the Anna Maria Island replacement project. According to McClash, the logical progression would be to do the Anna Maria Island Bridge first because it is not facing a legal challenge, has been designed and would serve the community’s needs. McClash said the DOT’s sequencing is illogical. “The reality is that we don’t know the outcome of the challenge,” McClash said. “If you design a bridge and have the money funded for a 65-foot bridge and the challenge is successful, then you wasted all the money on the design plans.” “For the FDOT to ignore the reality that they could lose is the typical DOT my-way-or-the-highway type of attitude,” he added. And if the DOT loses on the Cortez Bridge, it would be behind on the Anna Maria Island Bridge. In such a situation, the island also would be deprived of a

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2nd round of Coquina Beach improvements begins by Ryan Paice Islander Reporter

Improvements at one of Manatee County’s most popular tourist spots are revving up. County strategic affairs manager Ogden Clark told The Islander Feb. 11 that Miami-based American Pipeline Construction LLC would continue work to improve the Coquina Beach parking lots the week of Feb. 15. The project involves resurfacing the parking lots and access roads with pervious pavement to improve stormwater drainage. Work began in 2019 on the beach’s southern parking area and covered more than 200 parking spaces. The second phase will cover about 675 spaces in the center and northern parking areas. The project also has required the removal of many Australian pine trees, an invasive species with a shallow root system vulnerable to damage from the project’s excavations. Contractors removed 103 Australian pine trees during phase 1 and, in accordance with Bradenton Beach’s code, replaced each with native trees, includ-

A diagram shows the layout for a second round of stormwater drainage improvements for Coquina beach in bradenton beach. Islander graphic: Courtesy Manatee County

Work is planned through January 2022. ing gumbo limbo trees and green buttonwood trees. More information about the project can be found Another 87 Australian pine trees must be removed online at www.amipipereplacement.com. and replaced to complete phase 2. Clark said phase 2 would be divided into sections to minimize the impact on parking and operations. The contractor will begin on the south end and move northward.

RoadWatch

BRIDGE CONTINueD fROM PAge 8

reliable fixed-span bridge, important for storm evacuation, until the Anna Maria Island draw is replaced, McClash said. The current design cost for the Cortez megabridge is about $7 million. The bridge aesthetics design committee, which includes 11 local people, began meeting in 2020 and has held three meetings to date. Meanwhile, the northernmost megabridge design committee has held meetings since 2016 with an anticipated design completion date of late 2021, according to the DOT website. Since most of the Anna Maria Island Bridge design details are decided, the DOT could move forward rapidly with the project, McClash said. McClash and his allies began their legal campaign against the DOT by filing a 47-page complaint in U.S.

District Court March 9, 2020. On Feb. 1, both parties agreed to jointly file an amended case management report, a step toward mediation regarding the bridge on Cortez Road. The DOT maintains that the fixed-span is the most fiscally responsible option because it requires less maintenance than a drawbridge and no attendant. McClash and company argue the DOT is forcing the wrong bridge on the community. “They just feel like they have the ability to dictate what is allowed versus working with the community and resolving realistic community issues,” McClash said. “If they replace the bridge with a 65-foot bridge, the impacts on the Cortez community will be devastating and irreversible. And it doesn’t have to be that way. There’s two options.”

Eyes on the road

The Florida Department of Transportation and Manatee County posted the following: • Cortez Road and 119th Street West in Cortez: Phase 2 of work to realign the intersection of 119th Street West at Cortez Road/State Road 684 is nearing completion. The construction project is in the final stage of acceptance. Management is reviewing the work and resolving any outstanding issues with the contractor. Landscaping for Cortez Road in the project area also is planned. For the latest road watch information, go online to swflroads.com or dial 511. For road cameras, go to fl511.com. And, a reminder, a fare-free trolley operates daily on Anna Maria Island. — Lisa Neff

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Page 10 THE ISLANDER | islander.org feb. 17, 2021 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

The Islander Calendar ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Throughout February, “Coastal Dreams” paintings by Jamie Fugardi, Island Gallery West, 5368 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6648. Throughout February, Artists’ Guild Gallery, 5414 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, exhibits work by watercolorist Sue Lynn Cotton. Information: 941-778-6694. AHEAD ON AMI March 13-14, Anna Maria Island Art League Springfest, Holmes Beach. May 1, Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce Beach’n Food Truck Festival, Holmes Beach. ONGOING OFF AMI

AHEAD VIRTUAL March 4-25, artsHOP, islandwide.

Science and signs of life The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature, 201 10th St. W., Bradenton, is featuring programs about Mars and exploration in February, as the Perseverance rover is expected to land Feb. 18 on the red planet. From 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 20, the museum will host a scavenger hunt, outdoor “solar system” obstacle course and other activities to celebrate the achievement. Also, 7-8 p.m., the museum will host astronomy viewing. Fees are involved. For more information, call the museum at 941-746-4131. Islander Photo: Courtesy NASA

ONGOING ON AMI

Through March 5, Aqueous exhibition, ArtCenter Manatee, 209 Ninth St. W., Bradenton. Information: 941-746-2862. Through April 11, “For Real This Time,” John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, 5401 Bay Shore Road, Sarasota. Fee applies. Information: 941-359-5700. Through May 16, “Frans Hals: Detecting a Decade,” John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, 5401 Bay Shore Road, Sarasota. Fee applies. Information: 941-359-5700. Through May 16, “Larry Rivers: Boston Massacre from the Ringling collection,” John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, 5401 Bay Shore Road, Sarasota. Fee applies. Information: 941-3595700. Through June 27, “Kabuki Modern,” John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, 5401 Bay Shore Road, Sarasota. Fee applies. Information: 941-359-5700.

Compiled by Lisa Neff Email calendar@islander.org.

N. Bay Blvd., Anna Maria. Information: 941-708-6130.

ing, in-person at Bridge Street Bistro, 111 Gulf Drive S., Bradenton Beach, and via Zoom. Information: 941-920-2505. AHEAD ON AMI Tuesdays into May, Anna Maria Farmers Market, City Pier Park, March 6, Anna Maria Island Historical Society Heritage Day, 103 N. Bay Blvd., Anna Maria. Information: 941-708-6130. Anna Maria. ONGOING OFF AMI May 29, Anna Maria Island Privateers Snooks Adams Kids Day, TBD. TENTATIVE First Fridays, 10 a.m., Parkinson’s Support Group, Paradise July 4, Anna Maria Island Privateers July 4 Parade, islandwide. Center, 546 Bay Isles Road, Longboat Key. Information: 941-926TENTATIVE 6413. OFF AMI

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Saturday, Feb. 20 Saturday, Feb. 20 10 a.m.-2 p.m. — “Mission Mars” program, the Bishop Museum 8 a.m.-3 p.m. — Anna Maria Island Privateers Thieves Market, of Science and Nature, 201 10th St. W., Bradenton. Fee applies. G.T. Bray, 5502 33rd Ave. Drive W., Bradenton. Information: 931Information: 941-746-4131. 639-0986. AHEAD OFF AMI

AHEAD OFF AMI

April 29-May 3, Sarasota-Manatee Originals Forks and Corks March 20, Anna Maria Island Privateers Thieves Market, BraKIDS & FAMILY Food and Wine Festival, various locations. denton. April 17, Anna Maria Island Privateers Thieves Market, BraONGOING ON AMI ONGOING OFF AMI denton. Tuesdays, 6:30 p.m., Movies in the Park, City Pier Park, 103 Through April 18, second annual Teen Poetry Contest, Manatee VIRTUAL County Public Libraries. Information: molly.saunders@mymanatee. org. Tuesday, Feb. 23 2 p.m. – “What’s it Worth” appraisals with Mike Ivankovich, COMMUNITY & Manatee County Public Libraries, via Zoom. Information: mymanaCLUBS tee.org, 941-723-4821. Custom Jewelry Consignments Appraisals 40% OFF ESTATE SALES Watch Repairs Tune-Ups Batteries Service on Site -/°Ê£ nÎÊUÊn££äÊ ",/ <Ê, °Ê7°]Ê , /" MON-FRI 10-4 • ATM & CCs • 941-798-9585

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Thursdays, 5-8 p.m., Thursdays in Paradise art, shopping and SPORTS entertainment, Bridge Street, Bradenton Beach. Information: 941ON AMI 896-2222. Saturdays, 8:30 a.m., Kiwanis Club of Anna Maria Island break- Friday, Feb. 19 fast and meeting, Gulf Drive Cafe, 900 Gulf Drive N., Bradenton 9 a.m. — Manatee County Parks and Natural Resources’ SeaBeach. Information: 941-778-1383. shell Shore Walk, Coquina Beach, Bradenton Beach. Information: Tuesdays, noon, Rotary Club of Anna Maria Island lunch meet- 941-742-5923, ext. 6036. AHEAD ON AMI

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Sandra Webster of Cortez earned an honorable mention in an exhibit at ArtCenter Manatee, 209 Ninth St. W., bradenton, for her painting, “bike Walker.” Islander Courtesy Photo

Get listed

Send announcements for The Islander’s calendar to calendar@ islander.org. The deadline for listings is the Wednesday before the publication date. Please include the date, time, location and description of the event, as well as a phone number for publication. CALENDAR CONTINueD fROM PAge 10 OFF AMI

ArtCenter Manatee hosts watercolor exhibit

Compiled by Lisa Neff email calendar@islander.org.

Tingley Library checks in, reports reopening

Tingley Memorial Library turned a page on the pandemic and reopened with limited hours and admissions. The library, 111 Second St. N., Bradenton Beach, closed months ago to curb the spread of the novel coronavirus but recently reopened 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Wednesday-Friday. Patrons are limited to four at a time and their visits are restricted to 30 minutes. Face masks must be worn inside the library and temperatures will be checked prior to admittance. Additionally, patrons will be asked about recent travel and whether they are experiencing any symptoms associated with COVID-19. At the library, patrons will find books to browse and check out and also hundreds of books for sale on a “buy one, get one” deal. For more information, call the library at 941-7791208.

Virtual appraisals offered

ArtCenter Manatee is hosting the Florida SunSaturday, Feb. 20 coast Watercolor Society 2021 Annual Aqueous Show The Manatee County Public Libraries will host a 8:30 a.m. — Manatee County Audubon Society ﬁeld trip, Perico through March 5. virtual appraisal program for those who want to know Preserve, 11700 Manatee Ave. W., Perico Island, Bradenton. InforThe exhibit at the center, 209 Ninth St. W., Bra- if their treasured family heirlooms are actually treamation: 561-253-5025. AHEAD OFF AMI Feb. 25, Wildlife Spotlight stroll, Robinson Preserve Expansion, Bradenton. Feb. 26, Sunset Paddle, Robinson Preserve, Bradenton. Feb. 27, Master Gardener Tour, Perico Preserve, Perico Island in Bradenton. March 5-7, July 26-32, American Cornhole Organization world competition, various locations. May 14, Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce Golf Tournament, Bradenton.

good to KnoW SAVE THE DATES Sunday, March 14, daylight saving time begins. Wednesday, March 17, St. Patrick’s Day.

denton, opened Feb. 2 and can be viewed 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday, Friday and Saturday and 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. Due to the coronavirus pandemic, masks must be worn in the center. The show was juried by Florida painter and teacher Dean Mitchell and several local artists won ribbons and honors, including these Cortez artists: • Second prize, $400, to Susanna Spann for “Monday Music Magic”; • Honorable mention, Sandra Webster for “Bike Walker.” For more information, call ArtCenter Manatee at 941-746-2862.

sures. The show will be 2-4 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 23, on Zoom. The program includes a review of “10 Factors That Will Always Impact the Value of Your Treasures” with expert Mike Ivankovich, followed by appraisals. Ivankovich is a frequent lecturer, book author and host of the “What’s It Worth? Ask Mike the Appraiser” radio show that airs weekly on WBCB 1490 AM in Philadelphia. Each attendee is encouraged to have two items for Ivankovich to appraise on Zoom. Since the items will be shown online, people should be prepared to share as much information as possible to describe their treasures. Kiwanis club to meet To register, email Kaitlynn Bosley at kaitlynn. The Kiwanis Club of Anna Maria Island will gather bosley@mymanatee.org or call 941-723-4821. Saturday, Feb. 20, for a board meeting. The meeting will be at 8:30 a.m. at the Gulf Drive Cafe, 900 Gulf Drive N., Bradenton Beach. 12 MONTHS SAME AS CASH The program will include remarks by author and Kiwanis member Bob Wolf. Due to the pandemic, face masks are required Call Greg Cobb. Project Manager / Island Resident when attendees are not eating or drinking during the Cell 941.999.0620 club’s meeting. Complete Sales & Service For more information, call Sandy Haas-Martens 718 23rd Ave. W. Bradenton 941.747.2904 at 941-778-1383. $"31&5t5*-&

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Page 12 THE ISLANDER | islander.org feb. 17, 2021 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Local leaders rally to defend home rule from state legislators by Amy V.T. Moriarty Islander Reporter

Sabers were rattled at the Feb. 2 Manatee County Council of Governments meeting when talk turned to pending state legislation that would interfere with municipal governance of vacation properties. Anna Maria Mayor Dan Murphy raised the issue, referring to two bills — House Bill 219, introduced by state Rep. Jason Fischer of the 16th District in southern Duval County, and Senate Bill 522, introduced by state Murphy Sen. Manny Diaz of the 36th district in northwest Miami-Dade County. Both men are Republicans. If the state usurps home rule, municipal ordinances pertaining to short-term rentals and adopted after June 1, 2011, would be null and void. In Anna Maria, Murphy said, the loss of control would prevent law enforcement officials from enforcing rental property requirements aimed at safety. “It would pretty much invalidate our ordinance,” Murphy said. He said the key components of the city’s rental ordinance, adopted in 2015, limit occupancy to eight people, require a property owner to maintain annual registration of a vacation rental and secure an annual safety inspection. “Those are the three things we’re fighting to keep,” Murphy said Feb. 3, after the meeting, in an interview with The Islander. The mayor also questioned whether the state is prepared to enforce rental regulations. The council of governments meeting was Feb. 2

at the Bradenton Area Convention Center, 1 Haben Blvd., Palmetto. The council comprises elected officials from Manatee’s six municipalities and the county and it meets quarterly. Murphy said challenging lawmakers’ attempts to usurp home rule is a battle fought every session for at least five years. Bradenton Councilwoman Marianne Barnaby, Bradenton Beach Mayor John Chappie, Longboat Key town manager Tom Harmer and Palmetto Mayor Shirley Groover Bryant also were vocal in their support for home rule and opposition to state interference on rental regulations. “I personally think the government closest to the people ought to be the ones to regulate it,” Barnaby said. “We need to all get on board and we need to understand the damage that is done by not pushing back hard enough when governments go after home rule,” Chappie said. “That is our protection. That is how we govern at the most basic level. The local level.” He continued, “They have basically destroyed the character, the type of community we’ve had. They’ve accelerated the decline as a residential touristy community on the island.” Groover Bryant said problems with vacation rentals are not as pervasive in Palmetto. Still, she said, “We have party houses as well that are on the waterfront and it is devastating to the surrounding community and it is very difficult to deal with and it becomes a constant issue for law enforcement.” Cities lost the ability to enact new regulations

AM sets 2021 vacation rental registration fees The new year brought a tax increase to vacation rental owners in Anna Maria. The $58.52 per occupant rental registration fee was put in place by city commissioners with the Jan. 28 adoption of Resolution 21-767. The city annually assesses the cost of enforcing vacation rental ordinances, Mayor Dan Murphy said Feb. 10 in a phone interview with The Islander. The costs include salaries for code enforcement officers, lobbyist and legal fees, administrative staff and public works employees. The registration fees are “not a moneymaker,” Murphy said. “It’s strictly associated with the cost of regulating vacation rentals.”

To determine the fee, Murphy said the city’s costs are added up and then divided by the number of vacation rental properties in the city, which he estimated at about 630. That number is divided by the number of occupants allowed for each rental property. The math is more intricate, but that’s the gist of how the per occupant fee is determined each year, Murphy said. So, at $58.52, a property that can accommodate six occupants will be assessed $351.12, an increase of about $42 over the 2020 tax, when the cost per occupant was $51.51. — Amy V.T. Moriarty

regarding duration of rentals in 2011 and the ability to regulate the location of rental properties in 2015. “We’ve already compromised as much as we can,” Murphy said. “It’s like a three-leg stool, you pull one (leg) out, it’s going to fall.” He added: If the state preempts regulation of vacation rentals, it will run off the tourists, “killing the goose that lays the golden egg.” The lawmakers who introduced the two bills come from areas with a high volume of tourists but the attraction is different from what draws vacationers to Anna Maria Island. People go to Miami, Daytona and Key West for sun and fun, but also nightlife, Murphy said. They come to Anna Maria Island for the peace, beauty and the slower pace of old Florida. The legislators “do not understand the draw of Old Florida, we’ve got something really unique and we’d like to keep it.” Florida’s Legislative session will begin Tuesday, March 2, in Tallahassee.

ITPO shifts chair, meetings to Holmes Beach The island mayors played musical chairs for a seat on the area’s top transportation planning board. Island Transportation Planning Organization members unanimously voted Feb. 8 to appoint Holmes Beach Mayor Judy Titsworth as the organization’s chair, replacing Bradenton Beach Mayor John Chappie just as the meetings transition to her city. The ITPO consists of Anna Maria Island’s three mayors and was chartered to provide input and representation for the island cities on the Sarasota/Manatee Metropolitan Planning Organization, where the cities share one seat, one vote on the board. The location of ITPO meetings, as well as the organization’s chair, rotates between the cities every two years. Anna Maria Mayor Dan Murphy moved to transfer the ITPO chair from Bradenton Beach to Holmes Beach. Titsworth seconded the motion. The next meeting will be held at 2 p.m. Monday, May 10, at Holmes Beach City Hall, 5801 Marina Drive. — Ryan Paice

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feb. 17, 2021 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 13 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Rescue group grapples with pelican problems at Skyway pier by Kane Kaiman Islander Reporter

Seabirds are flocking to danger at the world’s longest fishing pier. Jeanette Edwards resides on Flamingo Cay on the Palma Sola Causeway. She founded Friends of the Pelicans in 2018 and achieved her nonprofit’s initial goal of hiring a full-time bird rescuer to patrol the Sunshine Skyway Fishing Pier, but so many birds are injured that only a fraction can be saved, she said. Edwards began rescuing birds at the pier with a group of volunteers in 2013. They were able to employ a full-time rescuer for about a year starting in 2015, but the group disbanded shortly thereafter. It wasn’t until October 2020 that Edwards’ nonprofit was able to hire another full-time rescuer: Rahat Khan. Since then, Khan, an expert cast-netter, has saved more than 600 birds, most of them pelicans. “Every day he’s out there, he’s getting up to 25 to 30 birds,” Edwards said. Pelicans injured by fishing activities have been commonplace at the pier for a long time, Edwards said. They are attracted to the pier by the baitfish that school beneath the structure. Pelicans sometimes take bait on a hook, but that’s not the main reason they get injured, Edwards said. “Probably 75% of the time they accidentally fly into a line extended out into the water or are accidently hooked when (anglers) are casting,” Edwards said. Unlike some species, pelicans are docile birds that easily can be handled in rescue situations, Edwards said. “Don’t be afraid of them, they really won’t hurt you,” Edwards said. “I tell people, your cat can hurt you worse than the pelican because pelicans don’t have claws, they don’t stab at you.” If an angler hooks a pelican, they should avoid cutting their line, Edwards said. Fishers should reel the

Rahat Khan, left, friends of the Pelicans’ full-time rescuer, works with Jerry and Sandy ulrikson Jan. 21 to rescue a pelican. Khan uses a cast net to bring the birds into range. Islander Courtesy Photo

So many birds have been injured that many rehabilitation facilities have reached capacity, but the Seaside Seabird Sanctuary in Indian Shores and the Wildlife Center of Southwest Florida in Venice have never turned a bird away, Edwards said. People looking to help the pelican’s plight at the Skyway should direct their interests to those two facilities, Edwards said. To volunteer with Friends of the Pelicans, send an email to fotpvolunteers@gmail.com. Edwards can be reached at 941-447-0773.

bird in steadily, put a towel over its head and grab it by the beak without restricting airflow through its mouth. After folding in the bird’s wings, anglers should push the hook through the skin to expose the barb, clip the barb, back the hook out and then remove remaining fishing line before letting the bird go.

WE TWEET 2

friends of the Pelicans founder Jeanette edwards demonstrates her pelicanholding technique Jan. 27 during a rescue at the Sunshine Skyway fishing Pier. Islander Photo: Courtesy george L. Veazey III

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Page 14 THE ISLANDER | islander.org feb. 17, 2021 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Gathering

Roser to host yard sale

The Roser Thrift Shop will hold a yard sale Saturday, Feb. 20. The yard sale, postponed from Feb. 13 and hosted by the women’s guild at the church, will be 9 a.m.-1 p.m. in the parking lot across from the church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Proceeds from the sale help the guild underwrite scholarships, community programs, local missions and provide other support to the church. The indoor shop has been closed for months due to the novel coronavirus pandemic. For more information, call the church office at 941-778-0414. St. Bernard Catholic Church will begin streaming its Saturday and Sunday Masses from the church to its activity center. Worship and events calendar The streaming services set to begin Feb. 20 are to REGULAR WORSHIP accommodate social distancing requirements to curb the spread of the novel coronavirus. Monday-Friday The church, 248 S. Harbor Drive, Holmes Beach, 8:30 a.m. — St. Bernard Catholic Church, 248 S. Harbor Drive, is seeking volunteers to assist with streaming from an Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-4769. iPad. Thursdays For more information, call the church office at 9:30 a.m. — Episcopal Church of the Annunciation, 4408 Gulf 941-778-4769. Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-1638.

St. B streams to activity center for social distancing

9 a.m. — CrossPointe Fellowship, 8605 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-0719. 9:30 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. 9 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. — Episcopal Church of the Annunciation. 11 a.m. — Longboat Island Chapel. ONLINE WORSHIP OFFERED Christ Church of Longboat Key, christchurchlbk.org. CrossPointe Fellowship, crosspointefellowship.church. Episcopal Church of the Annunciation, amiannunciation.org. Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, gloriadeilutheran.com. Harvey Memorial Community Church, Facebook. Longboat Island Chapel, longboatislandchapel.org. Roser Church, roserchurch.com.

Tidings

Obituaries

Wallace John “Wally” Cropper, 94, of Anna Maria Island, died Feb. 8. He lived on the island for more than 20 years, enjoying with his wife the beach, bike rides and beautiful weather. He was born Oct. 8, 1926, in New York City to LeRoy and Annie Cropper of Suffern, New York.

He graduated from Horace Mann High School in New York City, then Brown University and the University of Michigan, with a master’s in geology. He served honorably in the U.S. Army during World War II. He was a member of the American Institute of Mining and Metallurgical Engineers and the Society of Economic Geologists. As a mining and metal exploration geologist, he worked and lived in numerous locations during a 35-year period, including five years in the Andes Mountains of northern Argentina. He retired in Watertown, New York, as chief geologist with St. Joe Resources. He moved to Florida from Wells, Maine, in 1987. Memorial donations can be made to The Brown Fund, Division of Advancement, Box 1893, Providence, RI 02912. He is survived by his wife, Gloria Hall; children Robert C. and wife Marie of Warwick, Rhode Island; Lorraine and husband Mark Clough of Peacham, Vermont; grandson Ben S. Clough of Boston; stepsons John Hall of Sarasota and Timothy and wife Ellen Hall of San Diego.

C. Melissa Williams

Carole Melissa Williams, 53, of Perico Island and formerly of Holmes Beach, died Feb. 11. She was born Jan. 24, 1968, in Classic cool Belleville Township, New Jersey, Lance gregory Hubschmitt entertains at an Anna and grew up near the Jersey Shore Maria Island Chamber of Commerce bayfest in Red Bank and Middletown. She celebration in Anna Maria in 2008. Mr. Hubschmitt graduated from Middletown High provided DJ services for the classic car show at School and earned a bachelor of arts the festival for many years and also played the degree in 1990 in visual media com1950s tunes that created the festival’s cool vibe on Williams munications, including film and telethe west end of Pine Avenue. Mr. Hubschmitt of vision production, photography and ancient Roman, Sarasota died feb. 9. He was born Aug. 31, 1953. Arrangements are by Robert Toale and Sons funeral Medieval and Renaissance art and architecture from American University, College of Arts and Sciences, in Home at Palms Memorial Park. Islander file Photo

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Washington, D.C., and Rome, Italy. Williams soon took a job in London at Sky Photographics, where she met the love of her life, her husband Frank Williams. She stayed in London 10 years. She then took a job as a designer with a trade show company in Tampa and came to Anna Maria Island — where as a child, she had enjoyed many vacations with her family — to reside with Frank. They were married July 4, 2001, on the beach. She worked as a graphic designer at The Islander before starting a business with Frank in 2006, SteamDesigns, a graphic design studio, art gallery and fine art printing business. They were awarded small business of the year in 2009 from the Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce. She branded dozens of businesses locally, including Anna Maria Island Vacations — the flip-flop logo — Isola Bella Italian Eatery and Ross Built, as well as Eat Here and the Doctor’s Office, along with marketing for the Beach Bistro. She ran for a seat on the Holmes Beach City Commission in 2013, but was not elected. She had a passion for the history of the island and its preservation and the arts, and collected islandrelated historical postcards. And she was an avid baseball and soccer fan, an avid supporter for Arsenal and the Pittsburgh Pirates. In July 2019, the couple took on management positions at Island Mail and Print, transitioning her graphic designs — and a new logo — and Frank’s giclee printmaking business to the mail store. She is dearly missed by Frank and their many friends. A celebration of life is being planned for a date yet unknown — to be announced on social media and in The Islander. Memorial donations may be made to HOPE Family Services, P.O. Box 1624, Bradenton, FL 34206, or a call to 941-747-8499. She is survived by her husband, Frank.

Growing in Jesus’ Name

In the SANCTUARY and ONLINE Go to www.RoserChurch.com Click WORSHIP-SIGNUP , WATCH LIVE or WATCH LATER

Worship With Us at Our Church Sunday Service 10:00 AM Please Register to Attend • Masks Required

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Text ROSER to 22828 to receive the weekly eBulletin.

The CHAPEL is open during office hours for prayer & meditation. 941-778-0414 • 512 Pine Ave, Anna Maria • FOLLOW us on Facebook @RoserChurch SERMON SERIES BY REV. NEIL CROWELL

Wednesday, Feb. 17, Ash Wednesday. Thursday, Feb. 25, Purim. Monday, March 15, Eastern Orthodox Lent. Wednesday, March 17, St. Patrick’s Day. Saturday, March 27, Passover. Sunday, March 28, Palm Sunday. Friday, April 2, Good Friday. Saturday, April 4, Easter. Please, send notices to calendar@islander.org.

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.

Gathering is the religion page for The Islander. Please, send announcements, photographs and calendar listings to calendar@ islander.org.

Wallace John Cropper

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feb. 17, 2021 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 15 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Obituaries

Moose members sweep Bradenton Beach for trash

continued

John Frederick Zirzow

John Frederick Zirzow, 86, of Bradenton and formerly of Holmes Beach, died Feb. 7. He was born Sept. 13, 1934, in La Porte, Indiana, to John and Lucille. He was one of four siblings. He grew up in LaPorte, attending St. Peter Catholic School, where he went to church daily, sang in the choir and was an altar boy. Zirzow At the age of 14, he attended the St. Peter Football Team Banquet — the guest speaker was Notre Dame quarterback Johnny Lujack, who presented a trophy to the most valuable back. This sparked Mr. Zirzow’s lifelong love for Notre Dame. He graduated from Hanover College in Hanover, Indiana. After college, he proudly served in the U.S. Army 1957-59. One of his first jobs was pumping gas, which led him to the career he enjoyed for 30-plus years with Amoco Oil. During those years he moved to many different cities with his family, making many great friends who are still part of the family’s lives today. After his beloved wife Connie died, he became a longtime resident of Anna Maria Island, where he met his wife, Karen Clothier. They settled on the island, creating many memories with family and friends. A celebration of life will be held at a later date. Messages of condolences may be posted online at What’s New LaPorte. He is survived by his loving wife of 26 years, Karen; daughter Lory and husband Dave Grames of Fort Wayne, Indiana; son Bryan and wife Chris of Vernon Hills, Illinois; son Greg and fiance Maggie Hartzler of Galena, Ohio; stepsons Bob and wife Kim Clothier and Cris Clothier of Colorado Springs, Colorado; eight grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; four stepgrandchildren; and sister Judy Bush of LaPorte.

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. Information: 941-778-0414. • The Anna Maria Island Historical Society, 402 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, seeks volunteers, including docents for the museum. Information: 941-778-0492.

WE ROCK ONLINE

Alicia Nzou, alongside eva, Caroline, Vera and Allie Clark, walk the streets of bradenton beach feb. 8, part of the Anna Maria Island Moose Lodge’s cleanup. Around 37 Moose members participated in the cleanup, held in conjunction with another cleanup at Coquina beach. Islander Photos: Courtesy Peg Miller

Moose members Jan Jaudon, Donna bouwer and Skip St. John clean feb. 8 outside the lodge, 110 gulf Drive, bradenton beach.

Clarification

In a Feb. 10 story in The Islander about the Florida Institute for Saltwater Heritage Boatworks, some details about usage requirements were not provided. FISH allows members to bring boats to the boatworks facility for cleaning and maintenance for a $25-perweek donation. Members are not allowed to store boats at the FISH facility.

• The Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce offers free face masks. Information: 941-778-1541. • 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. • All Island Denominations 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.

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Moose members DeAnn Williford and Rebecca gill clean the bridge Street roundabout feb. 8. The next cleanup will be Saturday, March 6.

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Page 18 THE ISLANDER | islander.org feb. 17, 2021 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Sign of the times, mask up, social distance, enjoy!

A deluge of rain in the morning didn’t dampen the day for Amanda Simonetti, owner of Pizza Social in Anna Maria, and her son Jordan, 2, as they share a bag of popcorn feb. 13 at the festival benefitting the Anna Maria Island Concert Chorus and Orchestra.

And then the sun came out for Valentine’s Day… People gather feb. 14 for Day 2 of the first outdoor arts-and-crafts festival at Holmes beach city field since March, 2020, when concerns over the spread of COVID-19 limited social interactions. Islander Photos: ChrisAnn Allen Loki Hastings, 12, of Colorado checks out steampunk masks, hats and jewelry feb. 14 at the outdoor arts-and-crafts festival at Holmes beach City field in the 5800 block of Marina Drive.

A line of bikes and low-speed vehicles are parked feb. 14 next to the entrance to an arts-and-crafts festival at Holmes beach City field. The twoday event benefitted the Anna Maria Island Concert Chorus and Orchestra.

Patrice Yasconi of Ohio feb. 13 looks over crafts created and offered for sale by Michelle Kelly during the two-day fair benefitting the Anna Maria Island Concert Chorus and Orchestra.

$2 @ The Islander, 3218 E. Bay Drive, Holmes Beach.

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AME’s kindergartners, teachers sent home to quarantine Anna Maria Elementary’s kindergarten class of 26 students and its two teachers began a 10-day quarantine Feb. 5. A kindergarten student was sent home from school Feb. 3 to take a coronavirus test and quarantine after showing symptoms of COVID-19. A positive result of the test was returned Feb. 5, AME principal Jackie Featherston said Feb. 9 in a phone interview with The Islander. The student attended school within 48 hours before the test, so the class was exposed, she added. Manatee County School District policy states if a kindergarten student sent home from school tests positive for the virus, the class and teachers must quarantine. Featherston said this is because of the difficulty associated with contact tracing due to the age and activity level of the children though social distancing and face mask precautions are in place for kindergarten students, as with other classes. School staff called parents of kindergartners Feb. 5 to pick up their children. “They’re just glad we’re staying on top of things” and most parents are “just grateful to have their kids in school,” Featherston said. Parent-Teacher Organization president Nicole Plummer was one of the parents called to pick up her child, 6-year-old Luke.

AME Calendar

• Tuesday, Feb. 23, 5:45 p.m., Manatee County School Board meeting, 215 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton. • Tuesday, March 9, 5:45 p.m., school board meeting, 215 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton. • Thursday, March 11, end of third quarter. • Friday, March 12, record day, no school. • March 15-19, spring break. • Monday, March 22, beginning of fourth quarter. • Tuesday, March 23, 5:45 p.m., school board meeting, 215 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton. • Friday, April 2, Good Friday, no school. • Tuesday, April 13, 5:45 p.m., school board meeting, 215 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton. • Monday, April 19, 3:45 p.m., school advisory committee meeting, via Microsoft Teams online platform. • Tuesday, April 27, 5:45 p.m., school board meeting, 215 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton. • Thursday, May 27, last day of school. Anna Maria Elementary is at 4700 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. For more information, call the school at 941708-5525.

By Amy V.T. Moriarty, amym@islander.org

“He was distraught because he didn’t understand why he had to leave school,” she told The Islander Feb. 10, especially since his older sister, fourth-grader Lilly, remained in class. Plummer said her family had COVID-19 in the fall but “for my peace of mind,” she took Luke to a testing site at the Bradenton Area Convention Center, 1 Haben Blvd., Palmetto. Luke’s rapid test was negative but the experience was a rough one for her son, she said. But by the end of the day, Plummer said, Luke “was more concerned about the child who has it.” The class quarantine ended Feb. 14 but due to Presidents Day, students were not to return to class until Feb. 16, after The Islander press date. Also, any student not showing symptoms of the virus who had a negative result on a polymerase chain reaction test could return as early as Feb. 11, Featherston said. “It cannot be a rapid test,” Featherston said. Results from a PCR test take two to three days and district policy requires a negative result from a test to prove eligibility to return to campus. The teachers and students quarantining were eligible to take a test Feb. 9. Plummer said information about the PCR test requirement to return before the end of quarantine was included in the information provided by the school when she picked up Luke. Remote schooling Despite the quarantine, a week of no work was not in the cards for the class. Featherston said their teachers prepared assignments for home study. Plummer is a former high school teacher and she has a space at home set up like a classroom, which is where she worked with Luke on his assignments. “He thinks it’s awesome playing and learning at home. He calls it Mrs. Plummer’s class,” Plummer said, with a laugh. Positive cases at AME The kindergartner was the third student to test positive at AME since March 2020. A week earlier, a second-grader tested positive, prompting the quarantine of four students, who did not test positive and returned to campus by Feb. 10. “We’re finding students that have tested positive have not contracted it at school,” Featherston said. That none of the students required to quarantine

Luke Plummer, a kindergartner at Anna Maria elementary, wears a Peter Pan hat Jan. 28 during Literacy Week. Luke is one of 26 kindergartners who quarantined after a classmate tested positive feb. 5 for the novel coronavirus. Islander file Photo: Nenita Daguinotas

due to contact tracing measures contracted the illness is an indicator the school was not the origin point for the infection, Featherston said. Featherston said “about another half dozen” students at AME had contracted the virus but because they had not attended school within 48 hours, contact tracing protocols were not triggered and additional students were not required to quarantine. As of Feb. 10, 674 students and staff in the school district had been sent home with the virus, including 255 since Jan. 6. The number does not include students and staff who had COVID-19 but did not attend school within 48 hours of a positive test. Contact tracing protocols and additional quarantines are not required in those cases, so those numbers are not tracked. Anna Maria Elementary is at 4700 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. For more information, call the school at 941-7085525.

AME benefits from ‘surplus’ property tax funds

The funding is enough to support the substitute welcomed. hire through April, when Florida State Achievement The attitude, Winsper said, makes AME a great Fourth- and fifth-grade teachers at AME can testing at AME will begin. school. better work with small groups of students in need The next SAC meeting will be 3:45 p.m. Monday, of extra assistance thanks to a boost from millage Other meeting news April 19, via the Microsoft Teams online platform. funds. The window for school choice applications Anna Maria Elementary is at 4700 Gulf Drive, At a virtual AME School Advi- closed, but the Manatee County School District has Holmes Beach. sory Council meeting Feb. 8, prin- not updated school choice enrollment numbers for For more information, call the school at 941-708cipal Jackie Featherston reported the 2021-22 academic year. 5525. receiving $7,122.50 from surplus Featherston said school choice — which allows a millage funds in response to her student outside a school’s geographical area to apply About the council featherston application to the Manatee County to attend — is different from hardship. Each school in the district has an advisory School District. Hardship enrollment is open year-round and is for council. Council responsibilities include planning The funds come from the increased property tax students already enrolled in a school but whose family improvements planning, assisting in decision-making, voters approved a few years ago, Featherston said moves within the district but out of the school’s area, approving expenditures of certain funds, and serving Feb. 9 in a phone interview with The Islander. or students whose parent or guardian works closer to as a liaison between the school and community and The money is earmarked for teacher salaries, the school. as an advisory body to the principal. remediation and STEM classes, Featherston said. AME has students enrolled through both proAME’s 16-member council includes chair David The funding AME received in January allowed grams. Zaccagnino, vice chair Janae Rudacille, secretary Featherston to bring in a substitute teacher twice per Council member Caroline Winsper offered kudos Ivory Graham, Pidge Barreda, Ashley Chiles, Danweek for the fourth- and fifth-grade classes. to the AME community for providing such a wel- ielle Darczy, Sandra Fisher, Josh Fleischer, Billi GartThe substitute instructs the class so the full-time coming environment. Winsper said she noticed social man, Jamie Hinkle, Jessica Holiday, Julie Krokroskia, teachers can work with students in need of more help, media posts from families whose students transferred Jenny Moore, Chris Rudacille, Dawn Trejo and WinFeatherston explained. into AME after the start of the school year and felt sper plus Featherston. by Amy V.T. Moriarty Islander Reporter

Page 20 THE ISLANDER | islander.org feb. 17, 2021 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Charred yacht remains in dry dock, state investigates by Kane Kaiman Islander Reporter

A ghost ship haunts the Cortez Cove Marina. The remains of a dry-docked 2014 Princess Y72 Motor Yacht that caught fire and billowed heavy black smoke into the air for hours Jan. 18 remained Feb. 10 on the property, 4522 121st St. Court W., Cortez. The fire’s cause is not determined. Marina staff performing maintenance on the vessel before the incident said the fire might have been electrical, WMFR Fire Marshal Rodney Kwiatkowski said. The yacht, more than 70 feet long, is valued at $2.5 million. The amount of monetary damage triggered a state-level investigation. The lead investigator is Florida State Fire Marshal Detective Mike Douglas, who declined to comment Feb. 10. “The fire investigation is open and ongoing and no additional details are available at this time,” Florida Department of Financial Services press secretary John O’Brien wrote in a Feb. 10 email to The Islander. The boat likely will be moved from the marina to an investigation site, Kwiatkowski said. The owner of the boat, its captain and the marina

Streetlife

have been equally tight-lipped. Michael Gary, a Kansas native who owns the yacht, had not responded to a phone call inquiry as of press time for The Islander. Matthew Gary, the owner’s son and boat captain, declined to comment. The marina is owned by John Lynch, who has not been reached. Marina staffers told an Islander reporter Feb 8. that no comment could be made at that time. On the day of the incident, personnel from West Manatee and Cedar Hammock fire districts spent 18 hours extinguishing a blaze Kwiatkowski described as “likely the most tenacious we’ve gone to war with.” There was no significant damage to other boats or structures and no fuel spilled into the cove, WMFR reported. However, the Gary yacht was a total loss.

The luxury yacht that went up in flames Jan. 18 remains feb. 10 at the Cortez Cove Marina, where it was in dry dock for maintenance. The 2014 Princess Y72 Motor Yacht’s $2.5 million value triggered a state investigation into the fire’s origin. Islander Photo: Kane Kaiman

Feb. 4, 300 block of Gulf Boulevard, theft. The MCSO received a complaint of a theft from a yard. Island police reports The homeowner told the deputy someone dug up and stole a palm tree and two other plants. Anna Maria Feb. 5, 200 block of Willow Avenue, noise. The Feb. 4, 503 Pine Ave., theft. The Manatee County Sheriff’s Office received a complaint of a theft at the MCSO received a complaint regarding loud people in a Anna Maria General Store. The suspect was found and pool after midnight. The deputy found no violation. Feb. 5, 800 block of South Bay Boulevard, animal. arrested for a misdemeanor. The MCSO dispatched a deputy regarding a complaint about a dead dog on the beach. The deputy found a Man takes probation for dead raccoon but the tide carried it out before the carcass could be removed. reckless driving Feb. 5, 300 block of Pine Avenue, noise. The A Bradenton man was placed on a year of MCSO received a complaint regarding loud noise after probation after pleading no contest to a charge of 11 p.m. The deputy found a power washing company at reckless driving, a misdemeanor. a restaurant and workers who didn’t know their equipEthan Brannock, 31, was arrested Dec. 15, ment was too loud. The machine was moved indoors 2018, in Holmes Beach for allegedly driving and no violation was issued. under the influence and possession of marijuana. Feb. 6, 500 block of Magnolia Avenue, noise. The Brannock pleaded no contest to the lesser MCSO received a complaint regarding loud people charge of reckless driving. outside. The deputy found people in a hot tub, who In addition to probation, the 12th Judicial were talking loudly over the water-jet sound. The Circuit judge ordered payment of costs and fines, deputy found no violation. including a $100 cost to the HBPD for investigaFeb. 7, 400 block of Magnolia Avenue, noise. The tion and a $500 fine. MCSO received a complaint regarding loud music. Staff reports

The deputy found no violation. Feb. 9, 200 block of Willow Avenue, noise. The MCSO dispatched a deputy regarding a complaint about workers blasting music. The deputy found the work noise was louder than the music and issued a warning to lower the volume. Feb. 9, 200 block of Willow Avenue, noise. The MCSO dispatched a deputy regarding a complaint about a loud party. The deputy found a party and issued a noise ordinance violation. The Manatee County Sheriff’s Office polices Anna Maria. Bradenton Beach Feb. 8, 2200 block of Avenue B, larceny. A man called the Bradenton Beach Police Department to report his vehicle was broken into and several items, including a firearm were missing. A BBPD officer entered the firearm into criminal databases and issued the man a case number. Feb. 9, Bradenton Beach City Hall, 107 Gulf Drive N., trespass warning. A BBPD officer found a man in a sleeping bag on the building’s front steps. The officer issued him a warning and he left without issue. BBPD polices Bradenton Beach.

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Work on new WMFR administration building takes shape

A wheel-locking device is attached to a vehicle. Holmes Beach approved using the devices for repeat parking violators. Islander Photo: Courtesy HBPD

Holmes Beach approves ‘boots’ for multiple violations

Someone may get the boot. Holmes Beach City Commissioners Feb. 9 unanimously approved the second public hearing and final reading of an ordinance to use wheel-locking devices — also referred to as “boots” — on automobiles owned by repeat parking violators who have not paid fines. A boot will be placed on a vehicle associated with three or more unpaid parking violations, according to the ordinance, The city will charge $50 to remove a boot. When asked Feb. 9 by Commissioner Kim Rash how many current violators could be fined, Police Chief Bill Tokajer said there are five people with two unpaid city parking violations but none with three violations. The city’s parking ticket system program notifies an officer if someone has more than one ticket. The device would be removed after the fine is paid, Tokajer said Feb. 9. — ChrisAnn Allen

Streetlife continued from page 20

Cortez Nothing to report. MCSO polices Cortez. Holmes Beach Feb. 3, Island Spice, 3608 E. Bay Drive, camping. A Holmes Beach police officer found an individual sleeping in an enclosed dumpster behind the business. The person was issued a notice to appear. Feb. 7, Manatee Public Beach, 4000 Gulf Drive, trespass. An officer was dispatched to the bus stop on a report of someone sleeping on the bus. The officer stated the person was unresponsive and Manatee County Emergency Management Services was contacted. The person was trespassed from Manatee County Area Transit.

Clearwater-based Creative Contractors the week of Feb. 8 began setting up interior walls inside West Manatee Fire Rescue’s new administration building, 701 63rd St. W., Bradenton, according to Chief Ben Rigney. Construction is projected to finish in April.

Feb. 9, 3400 block of East Bay Drive, traffic, marijuana. A motorist failed to stop for a flashing red light. Upon stopping the driver, an officer smelled marijuana, observed an open bottle of alcohol and also determined the driver had a suspended license. The officer found paraphernalia in the car, belonging to a passenger, as well as a marijuana pipe. The motorist was cited for driving with a suspended license, paraphernalia and failing to stop at the red light. The passenger also was cited for paraphernalia. Feb. 9, 5800 block of Marina Drive, domestic. Officers were dispatched on a report that a person hit someone in the face. The aggressor was transported to the Manatee County jail. HBPD polices Holmes Beach. Streetlife is based on incident reports and narratives from the BBPD, HBPD and MCSO.

Materials are piled Feb. 2 inside the West Manatee Fire Rescue’s new administration building in Bradenton. Creative Contractors, the contractor hired to construct the building, began work on its interior the week of Feb. 8 after finishing exterior walls and roofing. Islander Photos: Courtesy WMFR

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Complaints aired about horses at Palma Sola Causeway

panies that specialize in seagrass regrowth” to determine the best way her company can contribute to preserving and regrowing the seagrass. Cponies staff does its best to keep the area clean, but Bauer said she’s found that’s not the case with all the horseback-riding vendors. “We take pride in providing the best experience and cleaning up after ourselves and horses,” Bauer said. “The horses are our No. 1 priority and keeping the area clean for them.” But the bottom line is “it is a city park,” said McClellan. So whatever decision is made must be in concert with the city of Bradenton. McClellan told The Islander Feb. 11 that the issue is tabled until the CME and Rudacille discuss the outcome of the meeting the attorney had with Brown and the city council. She said she anticipates discussion at the next CME meeting at 4 p.m. April 14.

by Amy V.T. Moriarty Islander Reporter

The north side of the Palma Sola Causeway in Bradenton sometimes resembles a horse farm. And “it does kind of smell like a stable out there,” Tom Skoloda of Bradenton told the Palma Sola Scenic Highway Corridor Management Entity Feb. 10. The entity is a committee of Bradenton, Manatee County, Holmes Beach and nonprofit representatives that monitors, protects, beautifies and promotes the scenic highway along Manatee Avenue from 75th Street West in Bradenton to East Bay Drive in Holmes Beach. Skoloda, a former Anna Maria city commissioner, attended the CME meeting at the Bradenton Public Works Department to express his concerns about problems created by an influx of people along the causeway offering horseback-riding excursions. “It’s almost used up the whole causeway,” Skoloda said of the number of horse trailers on the north side of Manatee Avenue/State Road 64. Skoloda said he’s concerned the horses are messing up seagrasses. Also, he said, he’s concerned “about the bacteria levels there because there’s a lot of little kids and families, especially on the weekends, that swim in that area and that can’t be good for them with the horses going in there.” Concern with horses along the causeway is not new for the committee. CME co-chair Ingrid McClellan said she provided research and communications between the CME and the Florida Department of Transportation about possible damages from the horse-riding operations to the Bradenton city attorney, Scott Rudacille, in advance of a Feb. 10 meeting between Rudacille and Bradenton Mayor Gene Brown and the city council. The section of the scenic highway where the horse rides are staged is within the Bradenton city limits. CME co-chair Craig Keys said he had not heard from Rudacille on the outcome of the meeting.

Carmen Herman of Cponies beach Horseback Rides stands with Marina, one of 14 horses the company trailers from Myakka City to the Palma Sola Causeway to provide rides.

Causeway vendors do not fall within the permitting guidelines of Bradenton, so they are limited to online transactions — payments — Keys said. A suggestion to seek an aquatic preserve designation for the area, which would prohibit horseback riding in the water, came from CME member Shawn Duytschaver. Duytschaver owns the Surferbus, a paddleboard-kayak rental business that operates on the causeway a mile west of the horse-riding operations. “Are we going to try to get rid of the horses or are we not going to try to get rid of the horses? And if we’re not going to try to get rid of them or we’re not successful in getting rid of the horses, then I think there should be an operating fee assessed on a monthly basis payable before the first of the month,” CME member Mike Meehan said. Ambra Bauer has been operating Cponies Beach Horseback Rides along the causeway for about six years. She told The Islander Feb. 12, “All we’re doing is trying to give back to the community by giving people something fun to do.” Additionally, Bauer said she is talking with “com-

Highway extension The CME in 2010 asked the state to extend the scenic highway. The extension would run from the scenic highway’s end point at the intersection of State Route 64/ Manatee Avenue and State Route 789/East Bay Drive in Holmes Beach west to the entrance of the Manatee Public Beach at the intersection of Manatee Avenue and Gulf Drive in Holmes Beach. The extension also would continue south along State Route 789/East Bay Drive to the intersection of State Route 789/Gulf Drive at 27th Street in Bradenton Beach. That is the point where the 3-mile Bradenton Beach Scenic Highway begins. The state sent the application back with a request for more information. McClellan said a revised application will be submitted Feb. 26. And it will take the scenic route. The application will go to DOT District 1 landscape architect Darryl Richard for review. The state landscape architect also must review the application before consideration by the Florida Scenic Highway Advisory Committee, which makes the decision. The CME will next meet at 4 p.m. Wednesday, April 14, at the Bradenton Public Works Department, 1022 26th Ave. E., Bradenton. The meeting will be available via Zoom. Cponies beach Horseback Rides employees set up feed and water for their horses feb. 12 along the Palma Sola Scenic Highway. Islander Photos: Amy V.T. Moriarty

An aerial photo of the Palma Sola Scenic Highway is outlined in red and the proposed extension is indicated with yellow. Islander graphic: Courtesy PSSH CMe

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feb. 17, 2021 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 23 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

A gulf of Mexico whale. The species, previously known as the bryde’s whale, is now known as the Rice’s whale. Islander Photo: Courtesy NOAA

By Lisa Neff

Big find, big concern

Scientists have identified a new whale species in the Gulf of Mexico. The animal now known as Rice’s whale was formerly known as the Bryde’s whale. The name change doesn’t change the species status — the whale remains endangered. News of the new species broke this winter, with publication of an article in the Marina Mammal Science journal and circulation of news Neff releases and press statements from key players, including the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. The lead author of the article titled “A new species of baleen whale from the Gulf of Mexico, with a review of its geographic distribution” works for NOAA. Fisheries scientist Patricia Rosel started the journey toward identifying Rice’s whale in collaboration with NOAA scientists Keith Mullin and Lynsey Wilcox. Mullin had been studying Gulf whales since the 1990s and believed they were rare and needed protection. Rosel and Wilcox were examining genetic data obtained from whale samples collected on a NOAA vessel in the Gulf from 2008 when they recognized genetic material that looked different from that of other whales. Further, Rosel identified diagnostic characteristics that distinguished the Gulf whale she was interested in from other closely related baleen whale species. Integral to identifying the new species was the examination of a whale skull in 2020. The skull came from a whale that had stranded in Florida off Everglades National Park in 2019. The dead animal was examined, then buried at Fort DeSoto Park in Pinellas County and then exhumed for more research, including body measurements of the A 38-foot male whale strands in the everglades in January 2019. Scientists have since identified the whale as a member of a previously unknown species. Islander Photo: Courtesy NOAA/ fWC

whale to compare with those from other strandings. “The morphological differences, when combined with the genetic data Rosel and Wilcox had collected, were enough to distinguish this as a new species of baleen whale,” according to NOAA, whose partners in the lengthy research effort include Sarasota-based Mote Marine Laboratory, Everglades National Park Service, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and others. The Rice’s whale is considered one of the rarest in the world and only about 50-100 exist in the Gulf, their primary habitat being offshore of the Florida west coast. The species faces multiple threats — vessel strikes, entanglement in fishing gear, proposed aquaculture activities, exploration for oil and gas and pollution — and extinction is not out of the question. What killed the whale stranded at the Everglades park and exhumed from Fort DeSoto? A necropsy revealed a 3-inch hunk of plastic lodged in its gut may have contributed to its demise. A sad end for the hero of this whale tale. About Rice’s whale Rice’s whales can weigh up to 60,000 pounds, which is about five times as heavy as an elephant.

The whales can grow up to 42 feet long. Not much is known about their life expectancy, but closely related species reach sexual maturity at 9-years-old and can live about 60 years. The biggest threats to the species include vessel strikes, ocean noise, energy exploration, development and production, oil spills and responses, entanglement in fishing gear and ocean debris. The new name honors biologist David Rice, the first researcher to recognize that Bryde’s whales exist in the Gulf of Mexico. The Latin name for Rice’s whale is Balaenoptera ricei. For now, the whale remains protected as the “Gulf of Mexico Bryde’s whale” under the U.S. Endangered Species Act and the Marine Mammal Protection Act. NOAA will need to follow a regulatory process to update the name in the listing once the “Rice’s whale” is accepted by the Society for Marine Mammalogy Committee on Taxonomy.

Shell collectors to stroll Coquina Beach shore

Calling beachcombers. The Manatee County Parks and Natural Resources Department will host a “Seashell Shore Walk” at 9 a.m. Friday, Feb. 19, at Coquina Beach in Bradenton Beach. A notice from the county invited people to join “a relaxing walk on the beach to search for seashells and learn to identify them.” Participants also will learn about ethical seashell collecting methods. Reservations are required. For more information, contact Elena Burke at elena.burke@mymanatee.org and 941-742-5923, ext. 6036.

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The Manatee County Parks and Natural Resources Department seeks “self-guided volunteers” to clean trails and beaches, take photos and other tasks. Information: michelle.leahy@mymanatee.org or 941-7425923.

Page 24 THE ISLANDER | islander.org feb. 17, 2021 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Super week at KRC: men’s title decided, games play on at center by Kevin P. Cassidy Islander Reporter

The Super Bowl may be over — Go Bucs! — but there’s still action on the gridiron at the community center in Anna Maria. After three weeks of action, the flag football standings are tight in all three divisions of the youth league at the Center of Anna Maria Island. The 8-10 division has Moss Builders on top with a 3-0 record, closely followed by 2-0 Beach Bums. Cassidy Coastline Contractors holds down third place with a 2-1 record with 1-1 Tidy MD right on their heels. Cloud Pest Control is 1-2 followed by Shady Lady and Rays Ramblings, which are both in search of a victory. The 11-13 division has Root Logic on top with a perfect 3-0 record, but 2-0-1 Poppo’s Taqueria is right on their heels. Detwiler’s follows with a 1-0-1 record and Ugly Grouper and Gulf Drive Cafe are both at 1-2. The Gitt Team and HSH Designs are both in search of a win. The 14-17 division is a picture of parity among three teams. Ugly Grouper is on top with a 2-1 record, closely followed by Grooms Auto at 2-2 and LaPensee Plumbing at 1-2. Flag football action Feb. 2 got started in the 8-10 division with Moss Builders cruising to a 28-13 victory over Rays Ramblings behind Mason Moss, who ran for two scores while also connecting with McKenna Darak for another touchdown. Turner Worth completed the scoring with a pick-six that helped seal the deal. Carter Hey and Drew Buky both came through with rushing touchdowns to lead Rays Ramblings in the loss. The second 8-10 division game of the evening saw Tidy MD slip past Cloud Pest Control 20-12 behind three touchdown passes from Ronan Robertson, including two to Hayden Eurice and one to Kade Eslich. Cloud Pest Control was led by Charlie Neri’s touchdown pass to Lucas Signor and a touchdown run by Noah Rigney in the loss. The last of the 8-10 division matchups saw Coastline Contractors outscore Shady Lady 23-13 behind a huge all-around game from Reef Marin. Marin threw a touchdown pass to Charlie Serra, ran for a score, had a 2-point conversion and, for good measure, added an interception return for a TD. Cayson Travis led Shady Lady with a pair of touchdown passes in the loss, including one each to Jackson Kennedy and Bam Gartman. Action in the 11-13 division kicked off with Root Logix showing why they’re on top of the standings with a 32-7 filleting of Ugly Grouper. Quarterback Payton Harlan threw three touchdown passes to a trio of teammates —Luke Winsper, Hunter Wingate and Gabrielle Gilbert. Harrison Schenerlein and Carter Cantrell completed the scoring in the victory with pick-sixes. Ashton Hovda ran for a TD and Aidan Gannon added an extra point to complete the scoring in the loss. The second 11-13 division game saw Detwiler’s Farm Market and Poppo’s Taqueria battle to an 18-18

Third-place finisher brett Lance, left, newly crowned Key Royale Club champ eric Lawson and sixtime champ gary Risner pose at the conclusion of the two-day event at the club. Islander Photo: Courtesy KRC/Tom Nelson

tie. Detwiler’s quarterback Victor Albrecht threw three touchdown passes to three different teammates — sister Angelina Albrecht, Kieran Cloutier and Ewen Cloutier. Poppo’s was led by quarterback TJ Eckert, who ran for two TDs, while also connecting with Rowan Benford for a touchdown pass in the tie. The last 11-13 divisional game of the night saw Gulf Drive Cafe edge The Gitt Team 21-19 behind Zane Logan’s three touchdown passes to JM Feeney. Jack McCarthy’s 2-point conversion and an extra point catch from Audrey Guess provided the game’s winning margin. Tommy Baugher led The Gitt Team in the loss with three rushing TDs, while Landon Snyder added an extra point. Next up, the 14-17 division got started with Grooms Auto cruising past LaPensee Plumbing 29-14 behind four touchdown passes from Jayse Berzowski, including two that went to Justin Cook. Travis Bates and Shawn Balvin both added touchdown catches for the victory. Anthony Nguyen threw touchdown passes to Evan Christianson and Aiden Templeton, who also added a two-point conversion in the loss. The last game of the evening saw Ugly Grouper outscore Grooms Auto 47-45 behind four touchdown passes from Ian Godfrey, who also added a pair of pick-sixes on defense. Noah Costellow finished with three TD catches and a touchdown run, as well as two extra points and a 2-point conversion. Jayse Berzowski threw five touchdown passes and caught a touchdown to lead Grooms Auto, which also received two touchdown passes and four touchdown grabs from Shawn Balvin in the loss.

Bulls and Tom Brady, then with the New England Patriots, for the most titles, was recently eclipsed by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ historic Super Bowl LV victory with Brady at the helm! Eric Lawson forged an even-par 128 during the scratch-play event to earn an 11-shot victory over Risner. Risner came in having captured five consecutive club championships, but Lawson was not to be denied. Brett Lance took third place with a 16-over-par 144. The men were on the course Feb. 8 for their weekly, modified-Stableford system match. The team of Ken Butler, Al Carr, Jim Hitchens and Harvey Shovers combined on a plus-2 to win the day’s proceedings. Tom Perkins managed a plus-6 by himself to win individual honors while Bill DeMenna, Earl Ritchie, Kurt Snouffer and Ron Vandeman tied for second with matching plus-5s. The women played a nine-hole individual-lownet match Feb. 9 in three flights, starting with Flight A, where Roxanne Koche was on fire. She carded a 6-under-par 26 to finish five strokes ahead of secondplace finishers Connie Livanos and Jenny Huibers. Marty Clark’s 29 gave her first place in Flight B, two strokes ahead of second-place finisher Beth Lindeman. Sue Powers and Margrit Layh tied for third at even-par 32. Lisa Edmonds fired a 5-under-par 27 to earn a three-shot victory in Flight C. Terry Westby was alone in second place with a 2-under-par 30, while Judy Mencheck finished at even-par 32. The men were back on the course Feb. 11 for a nine-hole shamble. The team of Monica and Eric Lawson, John Purcell and Jim Menzies matched the 1-under-par 31 carded by John Kolojeski, Hoyt Miller, Terry Schaefer and Al Ward. Congratulations to Eric Lawson for swinging to the top.

Golf news The annual men’s Key Royale Club Championship was played over two weeks, Feb. 3 and Feb. 10, with Adult football continues After four weeks of action in the adult flag football the club hopefuls battling it out over 36 holes. Gary Risner, the six-time club champ who until league at the center, Beach Bums and Ugly Grouper are PLeASe, See SportS, NexT PAge recently was tied with Michael Jordan of the Chicago The new Jack elka 2021 calendar is available at The Islander office in the Anna Maria Island Centre shopping plaza in Holmes beach. Also available by mail order at islander.org. AMI Centre, 3218 e. bay Drive, Hb

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feb. 17, 2021 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 25 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Wintertime fishing in springlike conditions results in bounty By Capt. Danny Stasny Islander Reporter

Could it get any better? With days of springlike conditions in mid-February, fishing around Anna Maria Island is quite productive. The easterly breezes combined with calm waters in both the bays and the Gulf of Mexico are the perfect recipe for a memorable — and tasty — fishing experience. Anglers opting to venture offStasny shore are rewarded with a variety of fish. Fishing baits on or near the surface is attracting black fin tuna. The schooling fish are readily taking baits, introducing anglers to some arm-burning thrills and great table fare. Bottom fishing offshore is yielding thrills, especially with large red grouper and many snappers of the yellowtail and mangrove varieties. Finally, for those who haven’t had enough, there’s a chance to match their strength against hard-pulling amberjack while offshore. Moving inshore, fishing along the beaches and over the deeper grass flats in the bays produces great pompano action. If you’re catching the elusive fish along the beaches, you can expect to also encounter sheepshead, whiting ladyfish, Spanish mackerel and jack crevalle. If you’re working in the bays over the grass flats, you’ll likely encounter bluefish, ladyfish and plenty of catch-and-release spotted seatrout. On my Southernaire charters, I am patrolling the beaches for pompano. Casting jigs tipped with shrimp yields plenty of pomps for my clients, as well as ladyfish whiting and sheepshead. Anchoring and chumming during swift moving tide provides the best action. On slower moving tides, fishing over wrecks and reefs produces action on mangrove snapper and sheepshead, as well as Key West grunts and flounder. Jim Malfese at the Rod & Reel Pier is seeing a variety of species caught by anglers using live shrimp sports continued from page 24

on top of the standings with matching 4-0 records, just ahead of 3-1 Solid Rock Construction. Slim’s Place and Moss Builders follow with 2-2 records, while the Sandbar Restaurant holds down sixth place at 1-3. Mi-Box and Salty Printing are tied for last place. Action last week kicked off Feb. 11 with Solid Rock Construction earning a 32-13 route of Salty Printing behind two TD passes from Connor Haughey and Jon Moss. Beach Bums overwhelmed Mi-Box 51-20 behind seven touchdown passes from quarterback Matt Briley. Quarterback Brandon Kull threw three touchdown passes to lead Ugly Grouper to a 27-6 victory over Slim’s Place in the third game of the night. The final game of the evening saw quarterback Ryan Moss throw for five touchdowns to lead Moss Builders to a 33-26 victory over Sandbar Restaurant.

Greg Van Noord of Hudsonville, Michigan, shows off a giant red grouper he caught Feb. 10 in the Gulf of Mexico on a charter fishing trip with Capt. David White of Anna Maria Charters. The catch was made on a live pinfish in about 120 feet of water.

as bait. To start, casting live shrimp on a bottom rig under the pier yields keeper-size sheepshead — most are 12-14 inches although larger fish are in the mix. Also while casting under the pier, anglers are hooking into black drum, flounder and catch-and-release redfish. Casting baits away from the pier is yielding action too — especially on pompano. Malfese says the small jigs tipped with fresh-cut shrimp bumped along the bottom are being picked up by forging pompano. If jigging isn’t your thing, you can combine shrimp with a bottom rig and let it soak on the bottom for similar results. Capt. Jason Stock is taking clients offshore now that the strong winds and rough seas have subsided. The highlight of the week? Numerous catches of black fin tuna. The 20- to 30-pound tuna put up one heck of a fight and are good table fare. They’re coming on to both live baits and artificials. Allied and two-points clear of 2-2 Blalock Walters and Servis First Bank. Jiffy Lube follows at 1-2-1 with the Gitt Team right behind at 1-3-0. Slim’s Place holds down the basement at 0-2-2.

Horseshoe news Two teams advanced from pool play and battled for the day’s title during Feb. 10 horseshoe action at the Anna Maria City Hall pits. The team of Bob Lee and Bob Palmer showed Del Reese and Bob Brown what shock and awe looks like with a 22-1 victory. The Feb. 13 games saw the horseshoe pitchers dodge the rain long enough for Bob Heiger and Steve Doyle to complete the lone 3-0 record in pool play to outright win the day’s proceedings. Play gets underway at 9 a.m. every Wednesday and Saturday at the Anna Maria City Hall pits. Warmups begin at 8:45 a.m. followed by random team selection. Soccer action There is no charge to play and everyone is welSoccer is sharing a season and the field — pitch come. or gridiron — at the center. Five weeks in and there doesn’t appear to be a dominant team in the adult soccer league. Five of the eight teams have two victories, led by Burton Brick & Tile and Sato Real Estate, both with 2-0-2 records. That puts them a point ahead of 2-1-1

When the tuna bite is over, Stock switches to bottom fishing, yielding a variety of fish, including yellowtail mangrove snapper, almaco jacks and amberjack. Lastly, Stock is seeing plenty of tripletail while offshore, mostly around floating debris and grass. Capt. Aaron Lowman says he’s seeing a lot of snook and trout on the flats. He anticipates targeting them in the next couple of weeks — as long as the warmer weather continues. Until then, Lowman is targeting sheepshead in Tampa Bay around structure such as reefs and wrecks. Nearshore fishing in the Gulf of Mexico also is producing some sheepshead, as well as other species. Using live shrimp as bait is attracting mangrove snapper, Key West grunts, porgies, hogfish and a few tripletail. Capt. David White is spending his days offshore now that the Gulf is calm. According to White, the red grouper bite is quite good, with live and frozen baits attracting the large groupers to the hook. While bottom fishing for grouper, White also is putting clients on plenty of yellowtail and mangrove snapper. And the amberjack are being quite accommodating for White’s anglers, those who want their arms pulled out of the socket! Moving inshore, White say’s he’s seeing plenty of sheepshead and a good bite from the catch-and-release redfish and snook. Send high-resolution photos and fishing reports to fish@islander.org.

Anna Maria Island Tides

Date

Feb 17 Feb 18 Feb 19 Feb 20 Feb 21 Feb 22 Feb 23 Feb 24

3:13a 4:26a 6:32a 5:03p 6:07p 7:19p 8:26p 12:17p

HIGH

1.2 1.0 0.9 1.8 1.9 1.9 2.0 1.3

3:00p 3:33p 4:13p — — — — 9:25p

HIGH

1.7 8:40a 1.8 9:00a 1.8 9:06a — 12:41a — 1:58a — 2:59a — 3:49a 2.1 4:30a

LOW

0.4 10:06p 0.6 11:20p 0.8 — -0.1 — -0.3 — -0.4 — -0.6 — -0.6 3:12p

LOW

0.1 0.0 — — — — — 1.1

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

Southernaire Fishing Charters

Licensed

Moon

1st

Page 26 THE ISLANDER | islander.org feb. 17, 2021 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

isl

biz Bustling times

Amy V.T. Moriarty

Breaking bread for business Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce members broke bread Feb. 11 at a members’ luncheon at Pesto, A Bistro Experience and Wine Bar, 8799 Cortez Road W., Bradenton. While enjoying the sun and lunch on the patio, chamber president Terri Kinder shared information about upcoming events. A ribbon-cutting will be at 5 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 18, at Bunny & Pirates Bazaar, 12404 Cortez Road W., Cortez. A networking event for members and guests will begin at 5 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 25, at the Center of Anna Maria Island, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria. Also, 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Saturday, May 1, the chamber will host the fifth annual Beach ‘N Food Truck & Music Festival at city field in Holmes Beach. For more information, go online to www.annamariaislandchamber.org or call the office at 941-7781541. The envelope, please The Longboat Key Chamber of Commerce presented its 2020 business awards at the end of January. Chamber president Gail Loefgren chatted with The Islander Feb. 4 and said the event was a hybrid of an in-person luncheon and Zoom meeting. A big screen at the Holiday Inn-Lido Beach allowed folks in the room to see virtual attendees and the whole event worked quite well, Loefgren said. Cariloha Bamboo of Sarasota won Good As Green Business of the Year.

The Rookie Small Business Person of the Year was awarded to Lisa Baskfield of Nature’s Gem CBD Health and Wellness on Longboat Key. The Small Business Person of the Year-10 or Less Employees honor went to Don Borden of Four Winds Network Services in Sarasota. The Small Business Persons of the Year–11 or More Employees award was given to Ray and D’Arcy Arpke of Euphemia Haye and The Haye Loft on Longboat Key. The 2020 Norm Mallard Memorial Ambassador of the Year was awarded to Jimmy Bonner of SherwinWilliams Co. Celia Moore of Technology Solutions received the John Wojtyna Memorial Going the Extra Mile Award. And Reva Jackson of Cadence Bank was named Chamber Member of the Year. Congratulations to the winners! For more information, go online to www.longboatkeychamber.com, or call the office at 941-383-2466.

Horne-ing in on the FRLA The Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association Executive Committee elected John Horne to secretarytreasurer and restaurant director for 2021-22. Horne, who owns the Anna Maria Oyster Bar restaurants, including the one on the Historic Bridge Street Pier at 200 Bridge St., Bradenton Beach, has been a FRLA member for 25 years. When The Islander caught up with him by phone Feb. 12, Horne said he’d been on the FRLA executive committee for 10 years and this is the third year he’ll serve as restaurant director. He’s done such a good job in that role, in fact, the FRLA added the secretary-treasurer role to his plate. With a number of big projects on the table, the FRLA is “working to get tourism back into Florida,” Horne said. Congratulations to Horne! We know he’s ready to serve us. Got business news? Contact Amy Moriarty at amym@islander.org or call 941-778-7978. bob Slicker, center with scissors, cuts the ribbon feb. 9 on Slicker’s eatery, 12012 Cortez Road W., Cortez. Members of the Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce board of directors joined Slicker for the event. Islander Photo: Courtesy AMICofC

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feb. 17, 2021 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 27 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Holmes Beach continues review of Ugly Grouper expansion plan by ChrisAnn Allen Islander Reporter

The Ugly Grouper is looking for ways to grow. Holmes Beach assistant city planner Austen Dole presented information Feb. 9 at a city work session on a plan to increase seating and parking at the Ugly Grouper restaurant, 5704 Marina Drive, . City planner Bill Brisson reviewed the plans and proposal from the restaurant. Final approval rests with the city commission. Attorney Scott Rudacille, presenting on behalf of the restaurant, proposed increased seating capacity from 173 to 257 during operating hours before 5 p.m. and from 239 to 284 seats after that time. Brisson recommended 270 seats after 5 p.m. Holmes Beach resident Margie Motzer spoke against the additional seating. “As you review this site plan, I would ask that

PropertyWatch by Johann bertram

Real estate transactions

517 70th St., Holmes Beach, a 1,180 sfla/1,734 sfur, 2 bed/2 bath/1-car canalfront pool home built in 1967 on a 8,838 sqft lot sold 01/19/21 by Papaevagelou to Graziano for $850,000; list $869,000. 412 72nd St., unit A, a 2,138 sfla/3,759 sfur, 3 bed/2.5 bed/2-car pool home built in 2007 on a 5,096 sqft lot sold 01/15/21 by Gail L Janczewski LLC to Allderdice for $1,200,000; list $1,250,000. 776 N. Shore Drive, Anna Maria, a 1,512 sfla, 3 bed/2 bath pool home built in 1986 on a 5,000 sqft lot sold 01/06/21 by English to Jansen for $1,200,000; list $1,295,000. 813 S. Bay Boulevard, Anna Maria, a 2,030 sfla, 3 bed/3 bath/2-car pool home built in 1987 on a 12,833 sqft lot sold 01/14/21 by Shuck to Stine for $1,400,000; list $1,499,000.

BizCal

coMPiled BY lisA neff

AMI CHAMBER

Save the dates Feb. 25, business card exchange, Center of Anna Maria Island, Anna Maria. March 6, scholarship application deadline, Holmes Beach. May 1, Beach ’n Food Truck Festival, Holmes Beach. May 14, golf tournament, Bradenton. Fees may apply for events. For more information, contact the chamber at 941-778-1541.

WE TWEET TOO

you set a priority on preservation of our residential neighborhoods and the character of our city,” she said. “The request is for a 49% increase in daytime seating and the increase for nighttime seating is almost 20%. So you’re talking hundreds of people.” Rudacille addressed parking and live music, telling commissioners that golf cart parking should be utilized at the establishment. Additionally, he said the restaurant has installed equipment to ensure that noise does not exceed decibel levels. Commissioner Carol Soustek asked Brisson if a special exception should be added for sound amplification, but he deferred to Eran Wasserman, city development director. He was not in agreement that the restaurant uses an amplifier, “but the end result is amplified music,” Wasserman said. Soustek continued her concern. “I have been over there and you can’t even hear

227 84th St., Holmes Beach, a 2,712 sfla, 5 bed/4.5 bath/2-car pool home built in 2020 on a 13,200 sqft lot sold 01/15/21 by Stoner to Montalvo for $1,555,250; list $1,649,000. 525 Seagull Way, Anna Maria, a 2,716 sfla, 4 bed/3 bath/2-car canalfront pool home built in 1984 on a 12,375 sqft lot sold 01/15/21 by Cherryfish LLC to Cote Family Business LLC for $1,575,000; list $1,5999,000. 316 Spring Ave., Anna Maria, a 1,274 sfla, 4 bed/3.5 bath/2-car pool home built in 1957 on a 7,540 sqft lot sold 01/04/21 by Spring Beach Cottage LLC to O’Block for $2,067,000; list $2,099,000. 201 Elm Ave., Anna Maria, a 2,655 sfla/3,733 sfur, 6 bed/4 bath/2-car pool home built in 1972 on a 11,552 sqft lot sold 01/04/21 by Gulfside Development LLC to Elm Avenue Rentals LLC for $2,400,000; list $2,496,000. 688 Key Royale Drive, Holmes Beach, a 3,725 sfla/5,409 sfur, 4 bed/3 and 2 half bath/2-car canalfront pool home built in 2015 on a 10,237 sqft lot sold 01/10/21 by Austermiller to Zindler for $2,620,000; list $2,750,000. Johann Bertram, sales associate at Michael Saunders & Co.-AMI, can be reached at 941-779-3856.

the person next to you talking when they are playing music,” she said. She opposed the use of loud speakers. “You have to consider the houses, too, not just the business,” Soustek said, adding that volume control should be considered. Holmes Beach Police Chief Bill Tokajer said the sound is being monitored via a device at the restaurant and no issues have been detected. “The regular dinner music that they play, I don’t see that as a problem,” he said. “I went over there with a noise meter and I didn’t get a register on it. The way they have it set up now, I’m fine with it.” Commissioner Terry Schaefer, who lives near the Ugly Grouper, said noise is not an issue for him. “Obviously, noise is a concern throughout the community,” he said. “In the four plus years we have lived there, I have not heard it.” Kihm deferred to city attorney Patricia Petruff, who said she would work with staff and Rudacille to develop a resolution. The commission reached consensus to allow the attorneys to resolve matters and return to a future meeting. The next city commission meeting will continue discussing the site plan at 6 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 23, held via Zoom, with instructions on the city website at holmesbeachfl.org.

MIKE NORMAN REALTY EST. 1978

For professional real estate sales, call a true island native, born and raised on Anna Maria Island. Marianne Norman-Ellis. 941.778.6696

Mike Norman Realty

$2 @ The Islander 3218 E. Bay Drive, HB.

I’M A LIFELONG NATIVE OF AMI. I’m straightforward, down to earth, and proud to be at Michael Saunders & Co., where we hold ourselves to a higher standard of service and ethics. — Johann Bertram, Realtor

Chantelle Lewin Broker Associate Licensed since 1983

Mirabella, 2BR 2BA plus Den and Private Pool. $490,000.

941.713.1449

When it comes to buying or selling your home, Please, CALL ME FIRST! Let my years of experience work for you. —

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6000 Marina Drive, Suite 113, Holmes Beach

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941.779.3856 or JohannBertram@ michaelsaunders.com

Perico Bay Club—As Good As It Gets!! 518 Woodstork I 2BR/2BA I $309,000

LOOKING FOR A COOL, MOUNTAIN VIEW? ,OCATED WITHIN A DAY S DRIVE OF !NNA -ARIA )SLAND 7ESTERN .ORTH #AROLINA IS lLLED WITH NATURAL BEAUTY AND CUL TURE !N ISLAND NATIVE ) SPECIALIZE IN CONNECTING PEOPLE WITH THE PERFECT HOME TO CREATE THEIR IDEAL MOUNTAIN LIFESTYLE )F YOU RE INTERESTED IN A HOME OR PROPERTY CONTACT ME FOR A CUSTOM MARKET REPORT

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Page 28 THE ISLANDER | islander.org feb. 17, 2021 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

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

ITEMS FOR SALE Continued

BOATS & BOATING

ALuMINuM gARAge DOOR: Complete, six by five feet. excellent condition, $100. 941-7783920.

SHIP’S WHeeL TAbLe: Capt. J. Lindroth original masterpiece of inlaid wood and brass. 19-inches tall, 45-inch diameter. $1,500. Also, related pieces. marinateal@gmail.com.

bIMINI bAY SAILINg: Small sailboat rentals and instruction. Day. Week. Month. Sunfish, Laser, Windrider 17 and Precision 15. Call brian at 941685-1400.

ANTIQue PARTNeR DeSK: All wood, $1,000. See at The Islander office, 3218 e. bay Drive, Holmes beach. 941-778-7978.

JAMeS@CORTeZ DIVINg company. Local dockside service, 941-792-7595.

CAR ROOf RACK: easy install, black, $60, Christmas wreath with bow, $5, stainless-steel pressure cooker, $20. 941-920-2494. NON-STICK PANS: green, 8-10-12-inch, $30, concrete pavers all sizes, 75 cents. Keyboards, $10, mouse $5, uSb cable, $5. 941-920-2494.

ANTIQue OffICe chairs: Perfect for eclectic dining set. Circa 1950 from Anna Maria City Hall. The Islander newspaper, 3218 e. bay Drive, Holmes beach. 941-778-7978.

SeARS fRee SPIRIT 1970s 10-speed 26-inch bike, very good condition, stored indoors. $50. 270-210-6738.

FREEBIE ITEMS FOR SALE

bOMbAY fOLD DOWN desk: Space saver, hangs on wall, folds down with legs. Never used. $35. 321-408-6148.

Individuals may place one free ad with up to three items, each priced $100 or less, 15 words or less. fRee, one week, must be submitted online. email classifieds@islander.org, fax toll-free 1-866-3629821. (limited time offer)

KARCHeR K5 PReSSuRe washer, new, in box, $149 (Home Depot, $245), Dremel 4300, $50, Ryobi jigsaw, $30, bosch sander $10, belt sander, $15, All-Clad lasagna pan, $49, 941-567-6915

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Sandy’s Lawn Service Inc. ESTABLISHED IN 1983

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

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Kitchen and Bath Remodeling Specialist Replacement Doors and Windows

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References available • 941-720-7519

AdoptA-Pet

WANTeD: WORKOuT DVDs and retired but working xbox, Wii units with games for Ministry of Presence for kids and teens in Haiti. Deliver to The Islander, 3218 e. bay Drive, Holmes beach. WANTeD: YOuR OLD cellphone for recycling. Deliver to The Islander, 3218 e. bay Drive, Holmes beach. fRee guN LOCK courtesy of Project Childsafe, florida fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and Holmes beach Police Department. Pick up at The Islander office, 3218 e. bay Drive, Holmes beach. Don’t be sorry, be safe.

GARAGE SALES ROSeR THRIfT SHOP yard sale: 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday, feb.20. Come see what we have for sale. Please wear mask, keep distance, follow rules. 511 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, across from Roser Chapel.

LOST & FOUND LOST: DIAMOND RINg. Reward. If found, please, call 941-779-0654.

PETS 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.

HeLP ReSCueD PeTS! Volunteer, foster, computer help needed! Moonracer Animal Rescue. email: moonraceranimalrescue@gmail.com.

TRANSPORTATION 2017 buICK LACROSSe, 3.6L V6 engine, fWD, premium package with adaptive cruise control, automatic parking assist, pedestrian detection, bose surround sound, 10,760 miles. excellent condition. $24,000. 484-467-0487.

HELP WANTED MANAgeMeNT LeADeR POSITION needed for small business on Anna Maria Island. excellent customer relationship skills most important for job position. Knowledge of INTuIT software (Quickbooks) desired with experience in business computer competency expected. email a resume listing your qualifications to include contact information to shelnron@tampabay.rr.com. Interviews will be scheduled via phone call. AMI CAR WASH/detailer. Looking for experienced detailer willing to be available seven days as needed. 941-527-6266. Holmes beach. RePORTeR WANTeD: full- to part-time. Print media, newspaper experience required. Apply via email with letter of interest to news@islander. org.

KIDS FOR HIRE KIDS fOR HIRe ads are fRee for up to three weeks for Island youths under 16 looking for work. Ads must be placed in person at The Islander office, 3218 e. bay Drive, Holmes beach.

SERVICES NeeD A RIDe to airports? Tampa $65, St. Pete, $55, Sarasota, $30. gary, 863-409-5875. gvoness80@gmail.com. I DON’T CuT corners, I clean corners. Professional, friendly cleaning service since 1999. 941779-6638. Leave message.

bICYCLe RePAIRS. JuST4fuN at 5358 gulf Drive. Can do all types of bicycle repairs. flat tires to new builds. We pick up and deliver. Quick response and reasonably priced. 941896-7884. buSINeSS-TO-buSINeSS JD’s Window Cleaning looking for storefront jobs in Holmes beach. I make dirty windows sparkling clean. 941-9203840. beACH SeRVICe air conditioning, heat, refrigeration. Commercial and residential service, repair and/or replacement. Serving Manatee County and the Island since 1987. for dependable, honest and personalized service, call bill eller, 941-795-7411. CAC184228.