The Islander Newspaper E-Edition: Wednesday, June 07, 2023

The Best news on Anna Maria Island Since 1992

Astheworldterns 6

Q&A 060723 3

Mural in the works for library. 3

AMI concerns over state appropriations. 4

Meetings 4

Island cities issue new storm tags. 5

Opinions 6

10-20 YEARS AGO

Looking back. 7

April tourist tax tops $1m in HB. 8

HB seeks planners. 9

the date.

AMI Happenings

Save the date. 10 up and coming. 11-12

NYT puzzle. 12

AM centennial celebrated, Memorial Day marked. 13

Gathering. 14

GoodDeeds. 14

Osprey nest goes up in flames

Mahomes, a rescued and rehabilitated loggerhead, swims off during a release May 30 at Bayfront Park in Anna Maria. Onlookers gathered at the water’s edge to watch the release by Mote Marine Laboratory. Islander Photos: Courtesy Mote Marine Laboratory

Where’s Tuna Street? 16-17

Obituaries 15 Cops & Courts 19-21

Streetlife. 20

RoadWatch 22

And the winner is … 24

Targeting tarpon. 25

NESTING NOTES 26

Loggerhead tagged.

Mer-tastic times. 27

CLASSIFIEDS. 28-28

2 sea turtles released on Anna Maria’s bayfront

Two loggerheads checked out of the hospital May 30 and headed directly to the beach.

Mote Marine Laboratory and the Florida Aquarium released the two sea turtles — nicknamed Valerie and Mahomes — May 30 from Bayfront Park in Anna Maria.

Mote, in a news release, described the event as “momentous,” marking the finish line of months of care and rehabilitation at Mote’s Sarasota-based Sea Turtle Rehabilitation Hospital and The Florida Aquarium Turtle Rehabilitation Center.

“By combining our expertise and resources, we can provide these magnificent creatures with the best possible care, ensuring their recovery and return to the big blue,” Lynne Byrd, Mote’s rehabilitation and medical care coordinator, said of the partnership.

Find The Islander archive dating to 1992 online at ufdc.ufl.edu.

Valerie was discovered fl oating nearshore of Longboat Key and initial observations suggested the turtle was affected by Valerie, a rescued and rehabbed loggerhead, crawls from the water’s edge May 30 at Anna Maria’s Bayfront Park.

TuRn TO TURTLES, PAGe 2

An osprey nest atop a utility pole near Cedar Cove Resort, 2710 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, burns May 31 after a transformer on the pole discharged arcs of electricity, according to West Manatee Fire Rescue training chief Mark Tuttle. Tuttle — on a delivery to Fire Station no. 3 in Holmes Beach — saw the arc and called dispatch. Florida Power & Light deenergized the pole and WMFR extinguished the fire. eric Cairns, owner of Cedar Cove, said resort staff nicknamed the nest’s ospreys “Ozzie and Harriet” and neither bird — nor their three fledglings — were present for the fire. Islander Photo: Courtesy Adrienne Cairns/Cedar Cove Resort

Federal judge denies HB motion to dismiss discrimination lawsuit

By Ryan Paice Islander Reporter

Looks like a local developer’s federal lawsuit against the city of Holmes Beach could have some staying power.

Judge Charlene Honeywell of the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Florida June 2 denied the city’s motion to dismiss developer Shawn Kaleta’s lawsuit against the municipality for its alleged “Anti-Kaleta policy.”

Kaleta owns numerous properties in the city, including Bali Hai Beachfront Resort, Coconuts Beach Resort, Anna Maria Beach Resort, Beach Bistro and more.

The lawsuit first was filed in federal TuRn TO LAWSUIT, PAGe 8

annamaria.com

Valerie is prepared for “go.”

The loggerhead was transported to Mote’s hospital Feb. 21 and began receiving injectable antibiotics and subcutaneous fluids until symptoms for red tide exposure improved.

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toxins from red tide.

The loggerhead was transported to Mote’s hospital Feb. 21 and began receiving injectable antibiotics and subcutaneous fluids until symptoms improved.

When Valerie arrived at the hospital, Mote scientists found the turtle already had a flipper tag and a passive integrated transponder tag placed by Mote’s research team in 2019 to study migratory patterns, growth rates, survival and reproductive output.

Mahomes was found washed ashore near Casey Key Road in Sarasota County and showed symptoms of red tide toxicity.

The loggerhead sea turtle was admitted to Mote’s hospital Feb. 13 — the day after another Mahomes led the Kansas City Chiefs to a Super Bowl win — and then transferred Feb. 24 to the Florida Aquarium Turtle Rehabilitation Center.

Mahomes received antibiotics and supportive care during rehabilitation.

Before the release May 30, the quarterback’s namesake was outfitted with a satellite tag.

“Every turtle matters, as they serve as ambassadors for the critical need to protect and conserve these creatures and the habitats they rely on,” said Byrd. “Every rehabilitated sea turtle is a symbol of hope for the future of our oceans.”

People who see a stranded or dead sea turtle within Sarasota or Manatee county waters, can call Mote at 941-988-0212.

People who see a stranded or dead sea turtle in state waters, can call the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission hotline at 888-404-3922.

— Lisa neff

AMITW and Mote tag ‘Steve’ the loggerhead sea turtle.

Read the story page 26

Commercial fishing industry workers in Cortez share their perspectives in 5 new videos.

Watch their stories at flmaritimefriends.org/clearwaters as they share their experiences on the topics of net making, misconceptions, water quality, federal regulations, and their memories.

Ad Sponsor:

The release team on the bayfront in Anna Maria. Mote Marine Laboratory and the Florida Aquarium helped rehab two loggerheads released May 30 on Anna Maria Island. Islander Photos: Courtesy Mote Marine Laboratory

Island Library friends look to make a splash

By Ryan Paice Islander Reporter

Seasons don’t change much in Florida.

But this summer might bring a splash of color to the Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach.

Manatee County commissioners were set to consider authorization for the addition of an outdoor painted mural to the library’s west wall at their Tuesday, June 6, meeting.

Plans for the mural include a combined aquatic and reading theme, featuring marine life and stacks of books, which would be painted by Palmetto-based artist Matt McAllister.

The mural would cover 50-70 feet of the library’s west wall, which faces Marina Drive, and cost $8,000$10,000.

The project would be funded by the Friends of the Island Library, a nonprofit organization focused on expanding and enhancing the library through community programs and fundraising.

Friends of the Island Library board president Janet

Islander archive 24/7

Some years ago, The Islander was invited to take part in a pilot project with the University of Florida George A. Smathers Libraries. We donated our collection of printed newspapers beginning with the first edition in 1992.

It’s all maintained on the UofF library site, searchable by key word, name or date. Look for The Islander in the stacks at the UofF Florida digital newspaper collection at ufdc.ufl.edu.

And it’s available 24/7.

Riggs told The Islander June 2 that the nonprofi t’s jewelry sale in March provided initial funding for the mural.

“We wanted it to be our gift to the Island Library,” Riggs said.

Nevertheless, she added, the Friends group is considering additional fundraising ideas.

One idea would be to accept donations from people and sponsorships from local businesses and, in exchange, include their names in the mural by painting them on marine life and the spines of books in the artwork.

Hopes were high for the mural’s approval ahead of the county commission meeting.

“It’s the best of both worlds,” Island Library supervisor Aileen Valdes told The Islander June 2. “It looks like the commissioners that had already seen it were very happy about it and our county administrator was happy with it.

“So fingers crossed, but it’s looking like it should be approved,” she added.

Valdes said the project has been in the making since the Anna Maria Island Art League approached the library about a year ago with a proposal to add a mural to the building as a part of the league’s local beautification projects.

SUNSET CRUISES & DOLPHIN TOURS

A rendering of an underwater reading-themed mural proposed for the Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. The outdoor mural would be located on the library’s west wall, facing Marina Drive.

Islander Graphic: Courtesy Island Library

If the county commission approves the project, work on the mural could begin soon after and could finish before summer’s end, according to Valdes. “We’re just really excited about it,” Riggs said. “We think it would be a great benefit to the library and the community.”

Q&A 060723

The Islander poll

Last week’s question

By Lisa neff

Which island city offers the best nightlife?

5%. Anna Maria.

16%. Holmes Beach.

79%. Bradenton Beach.

This week’s question

How do you book vacation accommodations?

A. Hotel app.

B. Vacation rental app.

C. Tourist-travel agency.

D. Crash with friends and family.

E. Other.

To answer the poll, go online to islander.org.

Public works director Tom Woodard speaks about quotes for new roofing on city buildings during a June 1 commission meeting at Bradenton Beach City Hall. Islander Photo: Robert Anderson

BB commissioners mull over roofing quotes

By Robert Anderson Islander Reporter

Bradenton Beach commissioners June 1 agreed to postpone a decision on contracting for roof replacement and repair work on municipal properties.

The commission May 18 had agreed to seek three quotes for roofing projects — roof replacements at Tingley Library, 111 Second St. N., and the public works building, 403 Highland Ave. — as well as a roof repair quote for the Anna Maria Oyster Bar at the Historic Bridge Street Pier.

The roofs were damaged during Hurricane Ian, which made landfall in Lee County Sept. 28, 2022, and impacted much of Florida.

Public works director Tom Woodard shared quotes from three contractors, as requested by the commission but commissioners noted that the pricing was for standing-seam metal roofing rather than a less expensive crimped metal roof.

City building official Steve Gilbert had told commissioners May 18 that standing seam roofs were more durable than crimped roofs but the crimped style was probably best for the city given its saltwater environment.

According to Gilbert, metal is a better choice than shingles to thwart wind damage but salt air would reduce the lifespan of either metal option.

As a result, during the June 1 meeting, commissioners agreed to continue with their earlier motion to contract with a licensed company to install new roofs on the library and public works buildings not to exceed $51,000 per roof contingent upon receipt of three bids.

But they tabled a vote on a contractor until quotes for crimped metal roofs can be obtained.

The next commission meeting will be at noon Thursday, June 15, at city hall, 107 Gulf Drive N.

State contacts

Florida Governor : Republican Ron DeSantis, 850-717-9337 for staff, flgov.com for email, @GovRonDeSantis via Twitter.

Florida Senate: Republican Jim Boyd, 941-7426445, boyd.jim.web@flsenate.gov, flsenate.gov, @JimBoydFL via Twitter.

Florida House : Republican Rep. William Cloud “Will” Robinson Jr., 941-708-4968, will.robinson@myfloridahouse.gov, myfloridahouse. gov, @will_robinsonjr via Twitter.

Concerns grow over appropriations bill

By Ryan Paice Islander Reporter

The devil is in the details.

In the case of Senate Bill 250, the devil rears up in a single subsection that could impact all of Anna Maria Island.

SB 250 relates to natural emergencies and was filed by state Sen. Jonathan Martin, R-Fort Myers, and includes $61 million in state appropriations for emergency assistance programs.

It includes $50 million toward the Local Government Emergency Revolving Bridge Loan Program and $11 million toward the Safeguarding Tomorrow Through Ongoing Risk Mitigation Act Revolving Loan Program.

The funding might be difficult for Gov. Ron DeSantis to veto the bill, despite other ramifications.

On its surface, SB 250 touches on numerous aspects of natural emergency management, such as temporary shelter, debris removal and permit time frames, as well as encourages local governments to develop emergency financial plans in the case of natural disasters.

However, 15 pages into the 18-page bill, the first subsection of Section 14 establishes regulations for any “county or municipality located entirely or partially within 100 miles of where either Hurricane Ian or Hurricane Nicole made landfall.”

Regulations for those local governments include:

• Prohibiting the proposal or adoption of any moratorium on construction, reconstruction, or redevelopment of any property damaged by the hurricanes;

• Prohibiting the proposal or adoption of “more restrictive or burdensome” comprehensive plan amendments, land development regulations, as well as site plan and development permit/order procedures;

• Voiding ab initio — from the start — “any such moratorium or restrictive or burdensome comprehensive plan amendment, land development regulation, or procedure” retroactively through Sept. 28, 2022.

All three of the island’s cities are located within

100 miles of where Hurricane Ian made landfall at Cayo Costa and would be impacted by the subsection.

Attorney Nancy Stuparich of the Winter Park-based Vose Law Firm, filled in for city attorney Becky Vose at a May 25 Anna Maria City Commission meeting and discussed the potential impact.

Stuparich said the use of “more restrictive and burdensome” language in section 14(1) was “somewhat subjective,” which could lead to legal quandaries until case law on the matter is established.

“Some governments are trying to move forward with their ordinances, and this is somewhat putting a damper, or a stop to it,” Stuparich said. “So there will be more discussion, if not litigation, about what these terms mean.”

SB 250 also would require the city to conduct a review of its adopted comp plan amendments or land development regulations since Sept. 28, 2022, to determine if they were “more restrictive or burdensome,” according to Stuparich.

If such amendments or regulations are determined to be more restrictive or burdensome, they would become null and void.

Stuparich said section 14 of SB 250 would expire June 30, 2025, easing its impact on municipalities.

The bill passed both chambers before the end of the legislative session in May.

The House of Representatives voted 109-4 April 26 to approve a final version of the bill.

SB 250 went back to the Senate, which voted 39-0 May 1 to approve it.

The bill was ordered enrolled for presentation to DeSantis but had not been transmitted to the governor as of June 4.

Since the legislative session ended, DeSantis will have 15 consecutive days from the bill’s transmittal to either sign or veto the proposed legislation.

There is no state law setting a timeline for a bill’s presentation to the governor for consideration.

Bradenton residents Louis Rawles, left, and Garrett Laflamme play Sept. 29, 2022, on a swing set near fallen branches following Hurricane Ian’s passage the day before through Florida.

Meetings

ANNA MARIA CITY

June 8, 2 p.m., commission.

June 19, city offices closed.

June 22, 6 p.m., commission.

By Lisa neff

Anna Maria City Hall, 10005 Gulf Drive, 941-708-6130, cityofannamaria.com.

BRADENTON BEACH

June 7, 10 a.m., special master.

June 7, 1 p.m., P&Z.

June 15, noon, commission.

June 21, 1 p.m., ScenicWAVES. CANCELED

Bradenton Beach City Hall, 107 Gulf Drive N., 941-778-1005, cityofbradentonbeach.com.

HOLMES BEACH

June 13, 2 p.m., commission.

June 14, 9 a.m., clean water.

June 14, 5 p.m., planning.

June 27, 10 a.m., code enforcement.

June 27, 5 p.m., commission.

Holmes Beach City Hall, 5801 Marina Drive, 941-708-5800, holmesbeachfl.org.

WEST MANATEE FIRE RESCUE

June 20, 6 p.m., commission.

WMFR administration building, 701 63rd St. W., Bradenton, 941-761-1555, wmfr.org.

MANATEE COUNTY

June 7, 9 a.m., commission (budget).

June 12, 9 a.m., commission (budget).

June 13, 9 a.m., commission (budget).

June 14, 9 a.m., commission (work session).

County administration building, 1112 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton, 941-748-4501, mymanatee.org.

ALSO OF INTEREST

Palma Sola Scenic Highway Corridor Management Entity, 3:30 p.m. June 7, Sarasota/Manatee MPO office, 8100 15th St. E., Sarasota.

Juneteenth is June 19. Most government offices will be closed.

Independence Day is July 4. Most government offices will be closed.

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

Islander File

Photo: Ryan Paice

Issues linger after dismissal of Cortez stilt house court case

By Robert Anderson Islander Reporter

A judge in May dismissed a case involving a dispute over a house built on pilings in the water off Cortez but the state stands by a 2019 order to take down the structure.

The legal battle over the structure begun in 2018, when the Florida Department of Environmental Protection filed a suit against its builder, Raymond Guthrie Jr.

The DEP, first in notices to Guthrie and then in its lawsuit, argued that Guthrie built the structure without permission on sovereign state submerged lands.

Guthrie has maintained the stilt house is — and was — a net camp, which historically were used to clean, dry and store cotton fishing nets.

Guthrie, with support from the Manatee County commission, the state legislative delegation and Karen Bell of Cortez’s A.P. Bell Fish Co. and Star Fish Co. contended that his family previously had a net camp in the location and the structure was protected under an old state law.

A five-year legal battle followed.

In February, 12th Judicial Circuit Judge Edward Nicholas notified the DEP and Guthrie that no filings

APPROPRIATIONS COnTInueD FROM PAGe 4

The bill automatically passes if DeSantis takes no action within 15 days of its presentation.

Lobbyist Matthew Blair of the Tallahassee-based Corcoran Partners said May 25 that the governor has acted quickly on many bills presented to him so far, often within 48-72 hours after transmittal.

The Legislature can override a governor’s veto by achieving a two-thirds vote in each chamber.

If SB 250 receives the governor’s signature or is vetoed but overridden by the Legislature, its effective date is July 1.

No movement on HB garage bill

A month has passed without action on a bill that would allow Manatee County to build a parking garage in Holmes Beach.

House Bill 947, filed by state Rep. Will Robinson Jr., R-Bradenton, finished its passage through the Legislature May 4 but it had not been presented to Governor Ron DeSantis for consideration by June 5.

HB 947 would override a city code that prohibits multilevel parking facilities within municipal limits by allowing the county to construct such a structure without obtaining permits or approval from the city.

Upon presentation to the governor, DeSantis can sign or veto the bill, or take no action and allow it to become law after 15 days.

There is no state law setting a timeline for a bill’s

Ready for summer season?

The house Raymond Guthrie Jr. built on pilings in Sarasota Bay sits a few hundred feet from the u.S. Coast Guard Station Cortez and the commercial docks that serve Bell, Star and Fulford fish houses. Islander File Photo

in the case had been submitted in more than a year. He said he intended to dismiss the case if no stay of judgment was issued or approved over the next 60 days.

With no action taken by either side, Nicholas issued a notice of dismissal May 4.

On May 30, Brian Humphreys, DEP public information specialist in the southwest district, emailed a statement to The Islander.

He said, “DEP is aware of the court’s recent order, but it’s the department’s position that the court’s 2019 final judgment, which ordered Mr. Guthrie to remove the unauthorized structure, is still valid and enforce-

able.”

Humphreys also wrote, “As this process is ongoing, we are limited in our ability to comment further at this time.”

In February 2019, Nicholas entered a summary judgment in the DEP’s case against Guthrie, finding in favor of the state, but the judge also stayed execution of the order.

Bell, responding to a June 2 text from The Islander, declined to comment.

Guthrie, by phone June 3, also declined to comment.

BB commissioner goes absent since January

Bradenton Beach is short a commissioner.

Bradenton Beach Commissioner Marilyn Maro has been absent from the dais at Katie Pierola Commission Chambers since the start of 2023.

City staff confirmed May 31 via email to The Islander that Maro has been recorded as an excused absence from 12 city commission and six community redevelopment agency meetings since Jan. 19.

The Islander reached out to Maro by phone regarding her absences May 24 and May 31 but received no response as of press time June 5.

City staff and officials declined to comment on Maro’s absences, including Mayor John Chappie and city clerk Terri Sanclemente.

The Islander also reached out to city attorney Ricinda Perry May 24 and May 31 regarding the city’s absentee policy. As of Islander press time,

Bradenton Beach City Commissioner Marilyn Maro. Islander File Photo: Robert Anderson

presentation to the governor. So it’s unclear when the 15-day clock will start ticking.

People can call DeSantis’ office at 850-717-9337 or email the governor at governorron.desantis@eog. myfl orida.com to express their opinions about the bill.

there was no response.

Maro ran uncontested for her seat in 2022. She has served as Ward 2 commissioner for three consecutive terms. She was appointed to a two-year term in 2016 and was elected without opposition in 2018, 2020 and 2022.

— Robert Anderson

Correction

A report in the May 31 issue of The Islander incorrectly stated Anna Maria’s hurricane reentry tags from last year were expired. Anna Maria’s reentry tags do not expire. Residents who need reentry tags can bring proof of residency to city hall, 10005 Gulf Drive.

Guthrie Bell

Well, that was interesting

How many of you recall a tropical storm forming in the northern Gulf of Mexico and heading south?

I’m not the keenest weather-watcher but it seemed unusual to me. Sure. Plenty of other storms have formed in the Gulf, but they tend to move north. Northwest or northeast. But head south? Not so much.

Just sayin’ ... that sort of wacky pattern could be dangerous.

You’ll see in the “Looking Back” section this week that Hurricane Agnes barreled into the Gulf of Mexico 51 years ago this month.

Agnes, like other close calls with storms of the past, only grazed the island as it moved from the Caribbean to Panama City.

And, just a side note, if you are a weather-watcher, you know that a passing storm within 300 miles of the coast can do significant damage.

Agnes is the first hurricane name I can remember, having visited Anna Maria Island for the first time in September 1972.

And I remember walking as far north from the Manatee Public Beach as the Martinique condos — built that same year — where I saw the new swimming pool. The west end of the pool was missing — washed out. Cut off as if a giant chainsaw — Jaws? —had attacked. Yeah, it was jaw-dropping.

The memory of it still stands out to me.

I sometimes wonder why that didn’t deter my move to Florida, but I packed up everything I owned in a U-haul and a friend from the hotel I worked at in Springfield drive it south.

I hit the road with another friend from the hotel who also sought sunshine. And so it was.

I guess if I didn’t fear packing up my life and moving 1,200 miles south, a pool-eating storm was not about to change my plans.

I was raised with my toes in the sand at Virginia Beach and since it still snows in Virginia — and because my mother and step-father and two brothers had moved to Bradenton, I pushed south. Far south.

Sadly, my mom had already passed away before I moved and only about six months after they moved to Florida. But she had sent me a Polaroid photo of the Manatee Beach with her handwriting scribbled on the side — “My beach” — and it made me all the more determined.

So that’s how I came to love Anna Maria Island. Everything I came to love in 1975 is still here. How about you?

Be resilient. Be storm-ready.

Coquina garage?

I’m worried about the changes Manatee County commissioners are trying to impose on my city.

One of my big concerns is this proposed parking garage at the Manatee Public Beach. Has the county considered putting this structure at Coquina Beach?

Skimming online

Website: islander.org

Facebook: islandernewspaper

Twitter: @ami_islander

Instagram: @theislanderami

Pinterest: @islandernewspaper

If we must put up with this catastrophic structure, I think it would make more sense to put it at the southern-most beach, a place where it wouldn’t impact the residents in the area.

Marcy B. Bouton, Holmes Beach

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Beachbound with beachgear?

A parking area established off-island with city buses transporting beachgoers during the weekdays is a great idea.

However, our weekend visitors are largely traveling with all their amenities in tow and would rather have the convenience of traveling in their own vehicles, especially the large groups, and to park as close to the beaches as possible rather than loading/unloading all their stuff from car to bus.

Denny Delaney, Bradenton

Garage politics

A decision will be made shortly regarding the legislation for a garage at Manatee Public Beach. We need to be prepared.

— Bonner Joy, news@islander.org Letters

Day-trippers: You won’t reach garage parking in a reasonable time due to increased congestion. Spaces will be at a premium. Early arrival will be necessary.

You will have to pay to park in the garage. Cars will be enclosed in a structure that is conducive to loitering and crime.

Businesspeople and customers: It will become difficult for workers to make daily commutes. Businesses will suffer employee shortages resulting in poor customer service.

Environmentalists: Natural habitat and protection for wildlife will be further eroded. There will be increased air and noise pollution.

State and county lawmakers: You will be held accountable for the egregious manner in which you undermined local government/constituents with this assault on home rule and ignored studies critical to any decision of this magnitude.

AMI leaders and dissenters: You will be at peace knowing you fought to keep big government in its place and allow local governments to make decisions for which they are best equipped. You fought to keep the safety of people and the natural environment first.

Deb Sneddon, Holmes Beach

We welcome opinion letters.

You can submit your comments along with a name, city of residence and phone number for verification to news@islander.org.

Also, please, limit letters to 250 words.

Looking back

Hurricane Agnes, traveling north in the Gulf of Mexico, tries to bury a car in sand on Anna Maria’s Gulf Boulevard in June 1972. Agnes’ impact was widespread. The storm emerged into the western Caribbean Sea June 15, 1972, and strengthened into a tropical storm the next day. Agnes curved northward and passed to the west of Cuba, then intensified into a hurricane and headed northward in the Gulf, making landfall near Panama City. Islander Photos: Manatee County Public Library System

Passing storms

Hurricane Alma topples a swing set in Anna Maria in June 1966. Alma was the earliest Atlantic hurricane in the calendar year in 15 years, as well as the earliest continental u.S. hurricane strike since 1825. After intensifying as it crossed Cuba, the storm moved into the Gulf of Mexico and made landfall in the united States near Apalachee Bay. Islander Photos: Manatee County Public Library System

OpinionYour

Storm rookie to storm ready

What’s your first experience with a storm on Anna Maria Island?

Share your recollections and photos. Email news@islander.org. We’ll publish them throughout the Atlantic hurricane season.

We’d love to mail you the news!

We mail The Islander weekly for a nominal $54 per year. We also offer online e-edition subscriptions — a page-by-page view of the weekly news for only $36 per year, but you must sign up online. It’s the best way to stay in touch with what’s happening on Anna Maria Island.

We bring you all the news about three city governments, community happenings, people features and special events … even real estate transactions … everything you need if your “heart is on Anna Maria Island.”

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10&20 years ago

From the June 4, 2003, issue

• Lifelong Cortez resident Danny Mora was killed when the ultralight plane he was flying crashed into the Gulf of Mexico just offshore from Bradenton Beach. A passenger in the plane also was killed.

• Holmes Beach Mayor Carol Whitmore expressed disfavor with the prospect of a new ordinance that would raise the height of new building construction from 37 feet to 49 feet.

• Bradenton Beach’s Scenic Highway Corridor Management Entity for Gulf Drive recommended the city commission approve a proposal to remove about 40 signs from the Gulf Drive right of way.

From the June 5, 2013, issue

• Anna Maria’s cell tower committee met to review the three responses to the city’s request for proposals to build a cell tower on city property.

• Holmes Beach city planner Bill Brisson presented a draft ordinance to commissioners that tightened parking requirements for new restaurants.

• Holmes Beach commissioners looking at a dining ordinance said musicians playing outdoors must unplug and the police department should enforce the ordinance.

• Budget cuts — and staffing cuts — were in order for the School District of Manatee County due to an “accounting error,” including reductions at Anna Maria Elementary, which was anticipating the loss of four teacher posts.

— Lisa neff

You can peruse The Islander newspaper archive, dating back to its launch in november 1992, at ufdc.ufl.edu.

Print Your Own Memories

April tourist tax tops $1 million in Holmes Beach

By Lisa neff Islander editor

The tourists keep flocking to Anna Maria Island.

Holmes Beach accommodations yielded about a third of Manatee County’s tourist development tax revenue in April.

The county for that month collected $3,227,222 in TDT revenue, exceeding the April 2022 collection by 3.82%.

It’s significant because the April 2022 revenues — $3,108,553 — had shattered the all-time April “bed tax” record of $2,423,608 set in 2021.

The April tax revenues were gathered by the tax collector’s office from accommodations throughout May and then reported June 1.

Some details for April, which brought travelers over the long Easter weekend, as well as spring breakers:

• Holmes Beach’s collection exceeded $1 million in tourist tax revenues, reaching $1,050,654 in April, about 32.55% of the total.

In April 2022, Holmes Beach accommodations generated even more — $1,170,028 — in tourist tax dollars.

• Anna Maria accommodations generated $321,640 in tax dollars, about 9.97% of the county total;

• Bradenton Beach generated 5.01% of the total or $161,799 in taxes;

• Longboat Key, $290,012 or 8.99%;

• Bradenton, $252,976 or 7.84%;

• Palmetto, 0.11% or $3,481.

Unincorporated Manatee County accommodations generated the largest share — $1,147,087 — of the month’s tax revenues, 35.54%,

After the tax collector’s 3% administrative fee, the county’s net revenue for April was $3,130,406.

Since the start of the 2022-23 fiscal year on Oct. 1, 2022, the tourist tax has grossed $20,116,169 in

AMI TOURISM:

Endless Season

April tourist tax collections:

April 2019: $1,490,454

April 2020: $449,905

April 2021: $2,423,608

April 2022: $3,108,553

April 2023: $3,227,222

Manatee County, about $8 million less than the gross for all of fiscal 2021-22.

Tourism officials have said the county is on track to exceed $30 million in tourist tax revenue this fiscal year.

The county’s tourist development council is the advisory board that recommends how to spend the revenue and the elected county commission decides the expenditures.

Revenue must be used to bolster tourism, according to state law.

Tourism-related institutions that receive resort tax funding include the Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau, the Bradenton Area Convention Center, the Pittsburgh Pirates and Realize Bradenton, a nonprofit dedicated to developing downtown Bradenton.

Tourism-related projects that have been funded by the tax include island beach renourishment and the construction of the new Anna Maria City Pier. May bed tax revenue data will be released in early July.

The TDC was set to meet in Anna Maria June 5, the day The Islander went to press.

Mum is the word on pending Pines trailer park sale

By Robert Anderson Islander Reporter

Despite news of a pending sale for the Pines Trailer Park at the bay end of Bridge Street in Bradenton Beach, residents and parties privy to the sale have little to say.

Homeowners in the mobile home park, 103 Church Ave., received notice May 8 of an offer from an unknown entity to purchase the park land.

The notice, prepared by attorney David A. Luczak, representing the Pines owners — the Jackson Partnership — said the partnership was considering the offer of $16,250,000 for all park-owned land, mobile homes, recreational vehicles, equipment, materials, vehicles and buildings.

The offer included an initial nonrefundable deposit of $1 million from the buyer within three days of execution of a purchase agreement and allowed a 15-day

LAWSUIT

COnTInueD FROM PAGe 1

court against Holmes Beach on Dec. 31, 2021, claiming the city violated Kaleta’s constitutional rights by discriminating against the developer, stalling development plans, denying access to public hearings and failing to respond to record requests.

The developer voluntarily dismissed the first lawsuit but filed an amended complaint 75 days later.

The city filed a motion to dismiss the case April 28 arguing that the developer’s claims should be dismissed, including the following:

• Failure to “sufficiently allege comparators who have been treated more favorably by the city;”

• Failure to state a claim “upon which relief may be granted;”

• Failure to join indispensable parties.

Honeywell’s June 2 order dismissed the city’s motion and directed the city to file a responsive pleading to Kaleta’s amended complaint within 14 days.

Mayor Judy Titsworth declined to comment on the matter in a June 5 call. But attorney Jay Daigneault of the Clearwater-based Trask Daigneault lawfirm, told The Islander June 5 on behalf of the city that the judge’s denial of the city’s motion to dismiss “doesn’t speak to the merits of the case at all.”

“The city still believes the case to be without

period of due diligence before a contract would be finalized.

At the end of due diligence, the buyer would deposit another $1 million.

Closing would come 45 days from the successful completion of due diligence, possibly placing the closing in mid- to late-June.

The Jackson partnership, with Richard and William Jackson as officers, originally listed the park for sale Jan. 25 for $16 million.

As required by state law, the partnership first offered the park to the homeowner’s association members.

Negotiation with the HOA failed after the HOA and their representatives were unable to find the funding to purchase the park land as a co-op.

It is unknown what business entity is in talks to purchase the property and whether the property will

merit, and it’s going to defend it with that perspective,” Daigneault said.

Kaleta’s attorney, Louis Najmy, principal in the Bradenton-based Najmy-Thompson law firm, told The Islander June 3 that getting past a motion to dismiss was the first major hurdle to clear for any federal lawsuit.

He said that, compared to circuit court, there are fewer opportunities for federal lawsuits to become reality, so Honeywell’s order brings it one step closer.

“Federal court is a little tighter. It’s a more complex system. A more expensive system. A crowded system. And they tend to have tighter rules on whether claims can be made,” Najmy said. “Now we can move on with discovery and move toward a trial.”

Najmy said the developer is willing to work on a settlement but the city has been “unwilling” to work with them.

“They’re not bad people but they all kind of have the same ailment, of, ‘We don’t like Shawn, so we’re just going to say no,’” Najmy said. “I would just ask that they consider potentially making responsible choices and not just enforcement choices based on animosity. … It’s just not right.”

As the case progresses, a trial could begin May 6, 2024, according to court documents.

remain a mobile home park after the terms of sale are complete cannot be certain as negotiations between the Jackson Partnership and prospective buyer are not subject to disclosure.

The Islander reached out to residents, who said that, as of June 1, they had not receive news regarding the possible sale of the park from their attorney or Jackson Partnership since the May 8 notice.

The Islander reached out to members of the Jackson Partnership June 1, with no response as of Islander press time June 5.

The Islander also reached out to Pines HOA representative Bill Gorman May 26, who said he had no news about the pending sale.

When The Islander reached out to Luczak May 26 and June 2 he declined to comment.

Source: Manatee County Tax Collector

The Anna Maria City Pier after Hurricane Irma in September 2017. The pier was declared destroyed in the storm and torn down, replaced with the new pier, which now houses a bait shop, grill and the newly opened marine education center. Tourist development tax dollars helped fund the new pier. Islander File Photo: Jack elka

The entry to the Bali Hai Resort, co-owned by Shawn Kaleta and partners, at 6900 Gulf Drive in Holmes Beach. Islander File Photo

HB seeks planners

By Ryan Paice Islander Reporter

Interested in taking a seat at the dais with the Holmes Beach Planning Commission?

The city seeks applications for four positions on the board, including three full-time members and one alternate, ahead of a Tuesday, June 27, city commission meeting, according to city clerk Stacey Johnston.

Johnston wrote in a June 2 email to The Islander that the three-year terms of planning commissioners Gale Tedhams, Dana Krupa and Lisa Pierce, as well as alternate Deb Sneddon, were set to expire July 1.

As of June 5, all members with an expiring term, with the exception of Krupa, applied for reappointment.

The planning commission is a seven-member advisory board to the city commission — with five fulltime commissioners and two alternates — reviewing proposed ordinances and other planning matters for consistency with the city’s comprehensive plan.

The board recently finished reviewing the city’s comp plan and has begun updating the land development code.

The planners meet at city hall, 5801 Marina Drive, on the first Wednesday of most months.

Planning commissioners must be Holmes Beach residents for at least two years and are appointed by the city commission.

People can apply by completing an application available on the city’s website, holmesbeachfl.org, or at city hall, 5801 Marina Drive.

“Applicants are encouraged to be present at the (June 27 city commission) meeting to provide a brief explanation as to their qualifi cations and why they would like to serve,” Johnston wrote.

Applications should be submitted to the city no later than Monday, June 19.

People can learn more by calling the city at 941708-5800 or emailing Johnston at cityclerk@holmesbeachfl.org.

HB pitches in at post-Memorial Day beach cleanup

Holmes Beach code compliance supervisor JT Thomas, center, spent May 30 on the beach welcoming volunteers to the city-led post-Memorial Day beach cleanup near 52nd Street, with help from public works employees Darlene Hernandez, left, and Tray Thorp, right. About 15 people assisted in the cleanup, according to Thomas. Islander Photos: Courtesy Holmes Beach

Holmes Beach Commissioner Pat Morton, left, and two unnamed volunteers participate in the city’s May 30 post-Memorial Day beach cleanup.

Compiled by Lisa neff, calendar@islander.org.

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT ON AMI

Saturday, June 10

3-7 p.m. — Anna Maria Island Rotary Club/Slicker’s Eatery Concert for Peace to benefit Ukrainian refugees, Center of Anna Maria Island, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria. Information: 941-7781908.

Wednesday, June 14

6:30 p.m. — Island Time Book Club, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341.

ONGOING ON AMI

Throughout June, Artists’ Guild Gallery’s “Junes and Spoons and Ferris Wheels” exhibit, 5414 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6694.

ONGOING OFF AMI

Throughout June, “New Beginnings” all-member exhibit, Island Gallery West, 456 Old Main St., Bradenton. Information: 941-7786648.

Through June 25, “Tiffany: The Pursuit of Beauty in Nature,” Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, 1534 Mound St., Sarasota. Fee applies. Information: 941-366-5731.

Through Sept. 2, Thursday-Saturday, Laser Light Nights musical shows, the Bishop Museum of Science and Nature, 201 10th St. W., Bradenton. Fee applies. Information: 941-746-4131.

Through Sept. 3, “Eco Engineers” exhibit, the Bishop Museum, 201 10th St. W., Bradenton. Fee applies. Information: 941-746-4131, bishopscience.org.

Through Sept. 4, “Reclaiming Home: Contemporary Seminole Art,” the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, 5401 Bay Shore Road, Sarasota. Fee applies. Information: 941-360-7390, ringling. org.

Through Oct. 15, “Lorna Bieber: Natural World,” the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, 5401 Bay Shore Road, Sarasota. Fee applies. Information: 941-360-7390, ringling.org.

“Caught in the Storm: 100 Years of Florida Hurricanes” exhibit, Florida Maritime Museum, 4415 119th St. W., Cortez. Information: floridamaritimemuseum.org.

First Fridays, 6-9:30 p.m., Village of the Arts First Fridays Artwalk, 12th Street West and 12th Avenue West, Bradenton. Information: villageofthearts.com.

Second and fourth Saturdays, 2-4 p.m., Music on the Porch jam session, presented by the Florida Maritime Museum and Cortez Cultural Center, outdoors, 4415 119th St. W., Cortez. Information: floridamaritimemuseum.org, fmminfo@manateeclerk.com.

SAVE THE DATE

Oct. 7, Florida Maritime Museum Cortez Nautical Flea Market, Cortez.

Nov. 4, the Bash at the Bishop: A Celestial Affair, Bradenton. KIDS & FAMILY

ON AMI

Parade, Bradenton Beach, Holmes Beach, Anna Maria. July 4, The Bishop’s Red White and Bloom, Bradenton.

CLUBS & COMMUNITY ON AMI

Thursday, June 8

1 p.m. — Sunshine Stitchers, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341.

Friday, June 9 10 a.m.-4 p.m. — Island Library blood drive, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341.

Tuesday, June 13 10 a.m.-3 p.m. — Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce Blood Drive, 5313 Gulf Drive N., Holmes Beach. Information: 941778-1541.

ONGOING ON AMI

Saturday — June 24, July 29, Aug. 26 in the summer — 8:30 a.m., Kiwanis Club of Anna Maria Island meeting, Bradenton Beach City Hall, 107 Gulf Drive N., Bradenton Beach. Information: 941-7781383.

ONGOING OFF AMI

Tuesdays, 11:30 a.m., Rotary Club of Anna Maria Island lunch meeting, Slicker’s Eatery, 12012 Cortez Road W., Cortez. Information: 512-944-4177, amirotary.org.

SAVE THE DATE

Thursday, June 8

10 a.m. — Science show, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341.

Friday, June 9

10 a.m. — Forty Carrots, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-7786341.

Tuesday, June 13 10 a.m. — Family story time, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341.

ONGOING OFF AMI

First Wednesdays, “SOAR in 4” family night, the Bishop Museum, 201 10th St. W., Bradenton. Fee applies. Information: 941-746-4131, bishopscience.org.

Third Fridays, Teen Nights, the Bishop Museum, 201 10th St. W., Bradenton. Fee applies. Information: 941-746-4131, bishopscience.org.

Second Saturdays, Quest for kids, the Bishop Museum, 201 10th St. W., Bradenton. Fee applies. Information: 941-746-4131, bishopscience.org.

SAVE THE DATE

July 4, Anna Maria Island Privateers’ Independence Day

June 20, Center of Anna Maria Island Blood Drive, Anna Maria.

June 30, Anna Maria Island Privateers’ Scholarship Night with the Bradenton Marauders, Bradenton.

LESSONS & LEARNING

ON AMI

Wednesday, June 14 2 p.m. — Journal writing class, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341.

SPORTS & GAMES

ONGOING ON AMI

AMI Dragon Boat Team-Paddlers from Paradise practices and meetups, various times and locations. Information: 941-462-2626, mrbradway@gmail.com.

Most Wednesdays, 1 p.m., mahjong club beginners, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341.

Most Fridays, 11:30 a.m., mahjong club experienced players, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941778-6341.

PLeASe, See CALENDAR, PAGe 11

Holistic wellness center and spa

Now offering yoga and meditation in the ambiance of a healing Himalayan salt wall.

Massage Therapy | Acupuncture | Yoga

2219 Gulf Drive N | Bradenton Beach 941.778.8400 | www.alunawellness.com

IGW’s ‘New Beginnings’ “Sunset” by painter Marie Garafano is featured this month at Island Gallery West in Bradenton. The former island gallery is hosting an all-member show in June. Islander Courtesy Photo

need a good laugh? visit the NEW emerson quillin signature store. humor, art, gifts NEW LOCATION: HB Post Office, 5354 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach • emersonshumor.com

Island happenings

ONGOING OFF AMI

Through Sept. 3, Bradenton Marauders baseball, LECOM Park, 1611 Ninth St. W., Bradenton. Fee applies. Information: 941747-3031.

Saturdays, 7 a.m., Robinson Runners run, walk stroll, Robinson Preserve NEST, 10299 Ninth Ave. NW., Bradenton. Information: 941-742-5923, crystal.scherer@mymanatee.org, mymanatee.org.

OUTDOORS & NATURE

ONGOING ON AMI

Fourth Wednesdays through August, 7 a.m., Manatee Audubon Society “Birds and Breakfast,” at various locations. Information: 941592-7622.

ONGOING OFF AMI

Saturdays, 9 a.m., Mornings at the NEST, Robinson Preserve, 10299 Ninth Ave. NW, Bradenton. Information: 941-742-5923, mymanatee.org.

Post-season party

ABOVe LeFT: Cathy Hansel-edgerton, the Island Players incoming president for 2023-24, addresses the theater group during a banquet May 19, marking the end of the 74th season. ABOVe RIGHT: Maggie Carter accepts a “With Love and Appreciation” award from the Island Players outgoing president, Sylvia Marnie, The celebration took place May 19 at the Bradenton Country Club in Bradenton. For more information about the Island Players, go online to theislandplayers.org. Islander Photos: Courtesy Island Players

GOOD TO KNOW

KEEP THE DATES

Through Oct. 31, sea turtle nesting season. Lights out. Through Nov. 30, Atlantic hurricane season. Be prepared.

June 8, World Ocean Day.

June 14, Flag Day.

June 18, Father’s Day.

June 19, Juneteenth.

June 21, summer solstice.

July 4, Independence Day.

Sept. 4, Labor Day. Get listed! Send listings to calendar@islander.org.

Music nights return to Bishop

Laser Light Nights — featuring music by Pink Floyd, Elton John, Led Zeppelin and others — are back at the Bishop Museum of Science and Nature in Bradenton.

Thursday, Friday and Saturday night through Aug. 13, the museum is hosting laser light shows to music, including:

Thursday, June 16, 7 p.m., Aerosmith.

The Off-Stage

at

table during the annual Island

banquet. The Off Stage Ladies support the theater group in various ways, as well as meet monthly during the season for social, entertainment and educational programs.

Odd

Friday, June 17, 7 p.m., Jimi Hendrix; 9 p.m., Metallica.

Saturday, June 18, 9 p.m., Beyonce.

Thursday, June 23, 6:30 p.m., Lights and Love celebration, 7 p.m., Lady Gaga.

Friday, June 24, 7 p.m., Nirvana, 9 p.m., Foo Fighters.

There is a cost to attend. For more, go to bishopscience.org or call the museum at 941-746-4131.

Ladies gather

their

Players

The Island Players “construction crew” enjoys reserved seating at the theater group’s annual banquet and awards program.

Island happenings

Movie matinee: ‘Jerry & Marge’

“Jerry & Marge Go Large” — a 2022 dramedy about a couple winning the lottery starring Bryan Cranston and Annette Bening — will entertain attendees of the Summer Movie program at 1 p.m. Monday, June 19, at the Paradise Center for Healthy Living. Admission is free for members and $15 for guests. The center is at 546 Bay Isles Road, Longboat Key. In June, the center also will offer seminars, an improv class and health and wellness programs. For more information, call 941-383-6493.

Center to host concert to benefit Ukrainian relief fund

The Rotary Club of Anna Maria Island’s foundation and Slicker’s Eatery of Cortez are partnering with the Center of Anna Maria Island to raise money for a Ukrainian relief effort.

The Concert for Peace will be 3-7 p.m. Saturday, June 10, at the Center of Anna Maria Island, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria.

The all-ages event will include food, drinks, raffles and music by the Eric Von Band and Trevor Bystrom.

Kiwanis sets summer dates

The Kiwanis Club of Anna Maria Island set its schedule for the summer.

The club will meet at 8:30 a.m. at Bradenton Beach City Hall, 107 Gulf Drive N., on the following Saturdays: June 24, July 29 and Aug. 26.

The club will resume weekly meetings Sept. 9. For more info, call Sandy Haas-Martens at 941778-1383.

AME Calendar

• Wednesday, Aug. 2, teacher workday.

• Thursday, Aug. 10, first day of 2023-24 for students.

• Monday, Sept. 4, Labor Day, no school.

• Thursday, Oct. 12, end of first 2023-24 quarter.

• Monday-Friday, Nov. 20-24, Thanksgiving holiday, no school.

AME is at 4700 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. For more information, call the school at 941-708-5525.

There is no admission charge but donations are suggested.

Sponsorships for the event $1,000-$300 — are available.

Proceeds from the concert will go to the Rotary Ukrainian Relief Fund for medical supplies, goods and food for refugees in Poland and Ukraine.

For more information, visit the organizing page on Facebook at @forukraineami.

Privateers ready parade

Deck the rides in red, white and blue streamers. The Anna Maria Island Privateers will host their traditional July 4 parade on the holiday.

The parade is set to begin at 10 a.m. Tuesday, July 4, at Coquina Beach in Bradenton Beach and travel north to City Pier Park in Anna Maria.

Each unit must be on wheels, as well as display a sign or banner indicating representation.

Also, the Anna Maria Island Privateers is a registered nonprofi t and, therefore, cannot allow units engaged in “political advertising, solicitation, campaigning or endorsements.”

A notice on the Privateers’ website stated, “Failure to abide by these rules could result in expulsion from the parade and possibly being banned from future Anna Maria Island Privateers’ parades.”

Parade participants must submit entry forms but can do so the morning of the parade at the staging area.

Staging will open at 8 a.m.

To register or download the application, go online to amiprivateers.org.

For more information, contact Terry “Cookie” Rapert via email at moespride@verizon.net.

Fun in the field Ophelia Blau, 4, plays toss the wet fish under the watchful eye of Anna Maria Island Privateer Brian “Marco” Olsen during the annual Snooks Adams Kids Day, held May 29 at city field in Holmes Beach. The Privateers will participate in a scholarship night at LeCOM Park in Bradenton this month and are registering entries for the annual July 4 parade on Anna Maria Island.

ROBERT RYAN / EDITED BY WILL SHORTZ

Islander Photo: Robert Anderson

Anna Maria celebrates Memorial Day, city centennial

Audience members give a standing ovation May 29 to military veterans from the united States and north Atlantic Treaty Organization allies during the city of Anna Maria’s eighth annual Memorial Day Symphony Salute at City Pier Park, 103 n. Bay Blvd. After recognizing veterans and their spouses, the Anna Maria Island Concert Chorus and Orchestra performed patriotic music. The event then transitioned into the Centennial Celebration to commemorate the municipality’s incorporation in 1923. Islander Photos: Ryan Paice

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A u.S. Marine Corps color guard presents the American flag and Marine Corps Battle Color May 29, during Anna Maria’s Memorial Day and Centennial Celebration.

Longtime islander Tom Aposporos, master of ceremonies for the Centennial Celebration, speaks May 29 about the city’s creation.

Mayor Dan Murphy, right, calls city staff and event volunteers to the front May 29 to thank them for their efforts to make the Memorial Day and Centennial Celebration happen.

Maestro Leonard Murphy May 29 conducts the Anna Maria Island Concert Chorus and Orchestra during a performance of John Philip Sousa’s “The Stars and Stripes Forever.”

Gathering

By Lisa neff

Book discussion planned

The Longboat Island Chapel Book Club plans to gather at noon Monday, June 19, at the Dry Dock Restaurant, 412 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key.

An announcement in the church bulletin invited people to “come and chat about your favorite books.”

The bulletin also included a summer reading list: “The Lioness” by Chris Bohjalian, “Horse” by Geraldine Brooks, “Lessons in Chemistry” by Bonnie Garmus, “Demon Copperhead” by Barbara Kingsolver, “The Marriage Portrait” by Maggie O’Farrell, “Covenant of Water” by Abraham Verghese and “Clara and Mr. Tiffany” by Susan Vreeland.

For more information, email Judy Achre at paulaandjudy@gmail.com.

To reach the chapel, call 941-383-6491.

Roser seeks school staples

Roser Memorial Community Church put out a “wish list” for supplies to use during its vacation Bible school sessions this week.

The list includes elbow macaroni, Velveeta cheese bricks, spaghetti noodles and sauce, Rice Krispies cereal, marshmallows, Life Savers gummies, ranch dressing, Parmesan cheese, bottled water, water balloons and foil pie pans.

Roser is at 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria.

For more information, call the church at 941-7780414.

Gathering is the religion page for The Islander. Send notices to calendar@islander.org. Please, include a phone number for publication.

Honoring sacrifice and service

People

ON AMI

CrossPointe Fellowship, 8605 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. Info: 941-778-0719, crosspointefellowship.church.

Worship: Sundays, 9 a.m., followed by life group.

Ongoing: Wednesdays, 7 a.m., men’s Bible meeting; Wednesdays, 6:30 p.m., Youth Summer activities; Fridays, 10 a.m. women’s Bible meeting.

Episcopal Church of the Annunciation, 4408 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. Info: 941-778-1638, amiannunciation.org.

Worship: Thursdays, 9:30 a.m.; Sundays, 9:15 a.m.

Ongoing: Wednesdays, 8 a.m., men’s breakfast.

Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, 6608 Marina Drive. Holmes Beach. Info: 941-778-1813, gloriadeilutheran.com.

Worship: Sundays, 9:30 a.m., followed by coffee and fellowship.

Ongoing: First Sundays, food bank collections; Wednesdays, 9:30 a.m., women’s social gathering. Harvey Memorial Community Church, 300 Church Ave., Bradenton Beach. Information: 941-779-1912.

Worship: Sundays, 9:15 a.m.

Roser Memorial Community Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Information: 941-778-0414, roserchurch.com.

Worship: Sundays, 8:30 a.m., 10 a.m.

Ongoing: Wednesdays, 2:45 p.m., June 7, June 21, July 21, Aug. 9, Golfing for God, Bradenton; Wednesdays through Aug. 30, 1 p.m., GriefShare; Tuesdays, 2 p.m., women’s book study.

St. Bernard Catholic Church, 248 S. Harbor Drive, Holmes Beach. Info: 941-778-4769, stbernardcc.org, office@stbernardcc.

GoodDeeds

Assistance sought on AMI

• Wildlife Inc. rescue and rehabilitation in Bradenton Beach seeks help tending to injured animals. Information: 941-778-6342.

• Moonracer Animal Rescue seeks volunteers to offer foster and forever homes for rescued animals, as well as assist with technology. Info: 941-3452441.

• Roser Food Bank seeks donations. Roser Memorial Community Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, administers the pantry, supported by All Island Denominations. Info: 941-778-0414.

org.

Worship: Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m.; Saturdays, 4 p.m.; Sundays, 8:30 a.m., 10:30 a.m.

Ongoing: Monday-Friday, 8 a.m., rosary; Wednesdays, 7:30 a.m., Rosary on the Beach at Manatee Public Beach; Saturdays, 3 p.m., confession.

OFF AMI

Christ Church of Longboat Key Presbyterian USA, 6400 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key. Info: 941-900-4903, christchurchoflbk.org.

Worship: Sundays, 10 a.m.

Ongoing: Wednesdays, 10 a.m., Women’s Bible Study; Mondays, 9 a.m., Men’s Bible Study.

Longboat Island Chapel, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key. Info: 941-383-6491, longboatislandchapel.org.

Worship: Sundays, 10 a.m.

Temple Beth Israel, 567 Bay Isles Road, Longboat Key. Info: 941-383-3428.

Worship: Fridays, Shabbat, 5:30 p.m.; Saturdays, 10 a.m.

SPECIAL DATES & EVENTS

Through June 9, vacation Bible school, Roser Church.

June 19-22, vacation Bible school, CrossPointe.

June 19, noon, Longboat Island Chapel book club, Dry Dock Restaurant, 412 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key.

GET LISTED, CHANGE LISTINGS

Seasons change and so do schedules. Please, send listings and/or changes in worship calendars and other events to calendar@ islander.org.

Assistance offered on AMI

• Roser Food Bank welcomes applicants who live and/or work on Anna Maria Island for food assistance, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Info: 941778-0414.

• AID offers financial help to those who live on the island, go to church on the island, attend school on the island and work on the island. Info: 941-725-2433.

— Lisa neff

GoodDeeds notices: To list an organization’s aid services on AMI or a call for aid, email lisa@islander. org with details.

Blood drives set for AMI

Several blood drives are set to take place on Anna Maria Island this month.

The Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, will welcome the OneBlood bus 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Friday, June 9.

Also, the Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce will host the Sun Coast Blood Center’s bus to its parking lot at 5313 Gulf Drive N., Holmes Beach, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Tuesday, June 13.

Donors — who will receive a “mystery grab bag” — can drop in or make reservations by calling 866-97-BLOOD. Also, platelet donors will receive a $40 Amazon gift card.

For more information, call the chamber at 941-778-1541.

The Center of Anna Maria Island, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria, will host a drive with OneBlood 8:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Tuesday, June 20.

Appointments can be made online at oneblood. org/donate-now using the sponsor code #14076.

Donors will receive a $20 gift card, longsleeve T-shirt and a wellness checkup.

For more information, call the center at 941778-1908.

— Lisa neff

Tidings Compiled by Lisa neff

stand May 29 as Bishop J. Michael Garrison from the episcopal Church of the Annunciation in Holmes Beach leads a prayer during Anna Maria’s Memorial Day and Centennial Celebration, held May 29 at City Pier Park at Pine Avenue and Bay Boulevard. Islander Photo: Ryan Paice

Barbara Janice (Vaughn) Baker

Barbara Janice (Vaughn) Baker, 84, of Bradenton, died May 15 at home.

She was born May 1, 1939, in Portsmouth, Ohio, to the late Leslie Paul and Susie May Vaughn.

She was a 1957 graduate of Portsmouth West High School and graduated with an associate’s degree in business from Shawnee State University, also in Portsmouth.

She spent her early married years as an at-home mom, raising three kids, working small jobs and helping her husband with his vehicle repair business, Baker’s Body Shop. She later went to work 23 years in the nuclear industry at a uranium enrichment processing plant in Piketon, Ohio, retiring in 1999.

Stacey M. Boone

Stacey M. Boone, 57, of Bradenton, died May 19.

She was born July 18, 1965, in Bradenton, the daughter of the late David L. and Rosemary (Davisson)

Boone.

She was a member of Elwood Park Baptist Church in Bradenton and worked for A Paradise Realty in Holmes Beach.

A celebration of life will be scheduled at a later date. Memorial donations may be made to Manatee County Humane Society, 2515 14th St. W., Bradenton, FL 34205, and to the American Cancer Society, P.O. Box 6704, Hagerstown, MD 21741. Condolences may be made to brownandsonsfuneral.com.

and helping to make Anna Maria Island what it is today.

In his later years, he developed a passion for travel and cruising. He always felt at home on the water and enjoyed multiple around-the-world cruises, completing his final world voyage just prior to his passing.

He was beloved by many.

A private memorial service will be held in the future to celebrate his life.

Mr. Fiske is survived by his life partner, Della Merle Senchuk; daughter Jill Luxford Fiske of Virginia; and many extended family members and friends.

Bradley Keith Olson

Mrs. Baker moved to Florida in 2000 and began another career, this time in the hospitality industry. In 2009, she became a partner in a property management company, Anna Maria Island Resorts, retiring in 2021.

She then shifted her passion to two new initiatives, All Clams on Deck and the Brain Health Initiative. Both nonprofits created to scientifically promote and improve qualities within their own realms.

She served on the Manatee County Tourist Development Council and was active in the Kiwanis Club of Anna Maria Island.

Baker Fiske

She was an energetic and driven individual who impacted the lives of many people. She always tried to find the good in each person. She will be deeply missed.

A celebration of life will be held at the Sandbar Restaurant Pavilion 10 a.m.-noon, Saturday, June 10. Memorial donations may be made to All Clams on Deck, allclamsondeck.org, and Brain Health Initiative, brainhealthinitiative.org.

Mrs. Baker is survived by her former husband, Donald W. of Wheelersburg, Ohio; sons Nick and wife Darlene of Catlettsburg, Kentucky, and Jeff and wife Kim of Mount Vernon Ohio; daughter Denise of Clarksville, Tennessee; and grandchildren Megan, Brandon, Joey, Nikki, Jacob, Jill and Rylan.

Ms. Boone is survived by her partner of more than 25 years, Shawn Waters; stepmother Robin; stepfather Fred Hetzendorfer; sisters Cheryl Semrinec and Laura Payne and husband John; niece Stephanie Roth; nephew Anthony Smith; and a great niece and fi ve great nephews.

Jack Fiske

Jack Rodger Fiske, 89, of Anna Maria, died May 26.

He was born Oct. 11, 1933. He was preceded in death by his parents, Evelyn and Arthur.

He spent his life at sea as a Merchant Marine. He was a chief engineer on seagoing tugs and loved his life, traveling the world as part of his job.

He had called Anna Maria Island home since 1936 and loved his life on the island.

Mr. Fiske worked over the years dredging canals

Bradley Keith Olson, 58, died May 8. He was born, raised and lived in Milwaukee until a chance road trip landed him on Anna Maria Island in the early 1990s.

He worked at many restaurants on the island and told many a story — some pretty unbelievable.

One of his favorite places was Annie’s Bait and Tackle in Cortez. He also loved the Green Bay Packers, fishing, boating and his dogs, Grady, Lilly and Atlas.

A private service is planned at a later date.

Mr. Olson is survived by his significant other, Sacha Ross; sisters Christine, Barbara and Carol; brother Dennis; niece Diane; and nephew Derek and wife Elizabeth.

At

Bradley Keith Olson

Bradley Keith Olson passed into eternity May 8th 2023, he was 58 years old.

Born and raised in Milwaukee Wisconsin until a chance road trip landed him on Anna. Maria Island in the early 90s.

He worked at many a restaurant on the island and told many a story, some pretty unbelievable, but that was my brother.

One of his favorite places to have lunch with his sister was Annie’s Bait and Tackle, him fried shrimp platter, me fried grouper sandwich.

He loved his Green Bay Packers, fishing, boating and his dogs, Grady, Lilly and Atlas.

Bradley was survived by sister Christine Olson, nephew Derek Olson, (Elizabeth ) and Brads long time significant other Sacha Ross of Bradenton, as well as sister Barbara, Carol, brother Dennis and niece Diana of Milwaukee.

A private service will be held with family at a later date.

I will miss my brother deeply but believe in his last days he reached out for the hand of God and was rescued by Gods saving grace.

Romans 10:13. For everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.

That gives me hope.

— Christine Olson

Good deeds, needs after a storm

After a storm strikes, people in disaster zones can find help and people outside the zones can lend aid using the following resources:

• Florida’s official volunteer portal at volunteerflorida.org.

• National Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster website at www.nvoad.org.

• Before collecting supplies to donate, people should connect with organizations in an affected area to identify what is needed, how much is needed and when it is needed.

• Donating cash can be the best way to help after

a disaster.

People can find ways to donate at www.volunteerflorida.org/donatefdf or text DISASTER to 20222.

• After a storm, turn to The Islander’s social media and website — islander.org — for local connections.

• Also, find other resources for help at mymanatee. org, floridadisaster.org and fema.gov.

Boone

CUSTOM C AKES DELI C IOUS DESSERTS 10-5, Mon-Sat @ 2 locations … 507B Pine Ave, Anna Maria 941.896.3167 Facebook.com/hometowndesserts

941.504.7821 william@annamariaislandrealproperty.com

We speak bagel, egg-el, breakfast muffins, lunch salads, platters, sandwiches... and more!

PARADISE BAGELS CAFE & CATERING 3220 E. Bay Drive, Anna Maria Centre Shops 941-779-1212

Manatee County Sheriff’s Office Deputies Serissa Thompson and Kevin Vreeland patrol on horseback — Peanut and Grady — just off Anna Maria Island over Memorial Day weekend. During holidays, including the upcoming Independence Day, the MCSO and island police departments increase law enforcement’s presence, adding boat and mounted patrols. Islander Photos: Courtesy MCSO/Twitter

Manes and manatee

A Manatee County Sheriff’s mounted patrol — Peanut, left, and Grady — encounters a manatee making its way in the Gulf of Mexico. The added patrol on horseback is deployed to help law enforcement on holiday weekends.

Manatee County Area Transit: Island Trolley

RideFREE

Cops & Courts

HBPD arrests man for kidnapping, rape

By Ryan Paice Islander Reporter

Holmes Beach police arrested a Palmetto man May 29 on two first-degree felony charges for sexual battery and kidnapping with intent to commit or facilitate commission of a felony.

Rikeem Lang, 30, also was charged with a thirddegree felony for domestic battery by strangulation.

The Manatee County Sheriff’s Office contacted the Holmes Beach Police Department around 5:30 a.m. that a motorist involved in a possible kidnapping was pinged heading west at the intersection of Manatee Avenue and 75th Street in Bradenton.

Two HBPD officers found a vehicle matching the alerted MCSO description at the Kingfish Boat Ramp, 752 Manatee Ave., Holmes Beach.

They also found a man, Lang, searching the area and a woman sleeping in the back seat of the vehicle.

An officer spoke to the woman, who said Lang — an ex-boyfriend — had forced her into his vehicle and raped her in the back seat.

The officers called Manatee County Emergency Medical Services to transport the woman to HCA Florida Blake Hospital in Bradenton.

The officers arrested Lang, who then was placed into the custody of an MCSO deputy for transport to the Manatee County jail.

Lang remained in custody under $300,000 bond as of June 2.

If convicted, punishment for kidnapping — a life felony — includes life in prison without the possibility of parole, probation for the remainder of the offender’s life, as well as a fine of up to $15,000.

Punishment for a first-degree felony, such as sexual battery, includes up to 30 years in prison, 30 years of probation and a fine of up to $10,000.

Punishment for a third-degree felony includes five years in prison, five years of probation and a fine of up to $5,000.

An arraignment will be at 9 a.m. Friday, July 7, at the Manatee County Judicial Center, 1051 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton.

Ohio man arrested in HB for domestic battery

By Ryan Paice Islander Reporter

Holmes Beach police arrested Hugh Townsend, 29, of Martinsville, Ohio, May 27 on a third-degree felony for domestic battery by strangulation.

An officer responded to reports of a physical domestic disturbance and spoke with the complainant, who said Townsend, a roommate with whom she’d previously been in a relationship, choked her during an argument May 24.

She said she begged Townsend to stop choking her and he did, but struck her in the jaw with his fist before leaving.

She said she didn’t call police immediately because she didn’t want Townsend to get in trouble, but she called after he refused to take her to see a doctor.

The officer called Manatee County Emergency Medical Services to the scene to treat swelling on the woman’s jaw.

EMS cleared the woman, who provided a sworn affidavit to the officer.

Two officers then responded to a home where Townsend was staying with relatives.

Townsend told police he never struck the woman “but may have pushed her as he was trying to leave the residence.”

The officers arrested Townsend and transported him to the Manatee County jail, where he was released May 28 after posting $1,500 bond.

If convicted, punishment for a third-degree felony charge includes up to five years in prison, five years of probation and a fine of up to $5,000.

An arraignment will be at 9 a.m. Friday, July 7, at the Manatee County Judicial Center, 1051 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton.

Trespassers at wildlife refuge cited

State and federal wildlife officers patrolling the waters off Passage Key National Wildlife Refuge encountered multiple people on the island next to a “No Trespassing” sign.

Officers with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, working with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, issued citations trespassing the individuals, according to an FWC report on state incidents for May 19-25.

The report did not indicate a date for the incident. It also did not state how many citations were issued.

The Islander reached out by phone June 1 to the FWC but, as of Islander press time, there was no response.

Passage Key is off-limits to people due to its status as a national wildlife refuge for more than 50 bird

People in August 2017 intrude on the beach just feet away from birds taking refuge in a tidal pool at Passage Key, where a posted sign states the island is a national wildlife refuge and bird sanctuary — closed to people and dogs.

Islander File Photo

species, including nesting, American oystercatchers, black skimmers, royal and sandwich terns and laughing gulls.

Passage Key is at the mouth of Tampa Bay, north of Anna Maria Island and in Manatee County.

President Theodore Roosevelt established Passage Key National Wildlife Refuge in 1905 to preserve nesting colonies of native seabirds and wading birds.

In the early 1900s, Passage Key was a 60-acre mangrove island with a freshwater lake. Today it is a low-lying sandbar that fluctuates in size and scope.

The area around Passage Key remains a popular spot for boaters to congregate.

— Robert Anderson

Bradenton Beach

Police Chief John Cosby addresses Mayor John Chappie, left, and Commissioners Ralph Cole and Jacob Spooner on police matters June 1 at city hall, 107 Gulf Drive n. Islander

BBPD welcoming new officer, new patrol boat

The Bradenton Beach Police Department is preparing to welcome a new member to its ranks.

Police Chief John Cosby announced June 1, during a city commission meeting at city hall, that he will officially introduce Ryan Gagliano as a new officer during a June 15 city meeting.

Cosby said Gagliano is a certified law enforcement professional but he will still undergo 12-16 weeks of training with the department.

Cosby said a new officer position was budgeted for the 2021-22 and 2022-23 budget years with an allotted starting salary of $50,000.

The chief said he is working with city treasurer

Shayne Thompson to outfit a patrol vehicle with a computer for the new officer.

Cosby also updated commissioners on BBPD’s purchase of a new boat.

The Pathfinder center console boat ordered by the department should be on the water within the next two weeks. The vessel, which costs $113,000, is being purchased with funds from the West Coast Inland Navigation District.

The boat will be used to patrol the anchorage area south of the pier and other areas of the city coastline.

— Robert Anderson

Shifting spaces

A Bradenton Beach parking lot adjacent to the public works building on Highland Avenue may get a redesign. City commissioners reviewed a proposal June 1 from Colliers engineering to produce a rendering showing how to maximize the lot space for $1,400. Mayor John Chappie said a redesign could allow for an added 8-10 parking spaces. The matter was to be discussed at a 9:30 a.m. June 6 community redevelopment agency meeting, to be held after The Islander went to press. Islander Photo: Robert Anderson

Photo: Robert Anderson

Kissimmee woman arrested by HBPD for meth possession

By Ryan Paice Islander Reporter

Holmes Beach police arrested Briana Dalrymple, 37, of Kissimmee, May 26 on a third-degree felony for possession of methamphetamine.

Dalrymple also was charged with a first-degree misdemeanor for possession of drug paraphernalia and a second-degree misdemeanor for knowingly driving with a suspended license.

An officer saw a motorist with an obscured license plate leaving a public park upon his arrival, so he conducted a traffic stop and called for backup.

After speaking with the driver, Dalrymple, the offi cer issued her a citation for a tag violation and court summons for knowingly driving on a suspended license.

Dalrymple became “visibly upset” and walked away from her vehicle, leaving the door open and a

Streetlife Staff reports

Island police reports

Anna Maria

May 24, 400 block of Alamanda Road, trespass. A Manatee County Sheriff’s Office deputy responded to a call requesting a person be removed from a home. The complainant alleged the individual was violent. Deputies trespassed the individual.

The MCSO polices Anna Maria.

Bradenton Beach

May 27, 2000 Gulf Drive South, Coquina Boat Ramp South, injury. The MCSO responded to a call about an injury at the boat ramp. A child was cut by a propeller blade, suffering a 3-inch gash to the calf. Manatee County Emergency Medical Services responded and transported the child to a nearby hospital. An incident report was filed.

May 28 107 Gulf Drive N., city hall, trespass. An MCSO deputy was dispatched to a complaint of a suspicious person. A man was trespassed from the property.

May 30, 2513 Gulf Drive N., Circle-K, larceny. A Bradenton Beach police officer was dispatched to a call regarding a theft of propane tanks. A cage in which the tanks were stored was pried open and the tanks removed. The officer took a statement from a manager and filed an incident report.

The BBPD polices Bradenton Beach.

Cortez

May 25, 3900 block of Mariners Walk, crash. MCSO deputies were dispatched to assist emergency medical services after an automobile and a riding lawn

plastic bag containing a crystal-like substance — which later tested positive for methamphetamine — visible on the driver-side floorboard.

Two officers searched the vehicle and found a glass pipe on the driver-side floorboard.

The officers found a second pipe under a front-seat passenger, who also had a black tube containing methamphetamine residue in a pocket in his clothing.

The officers also found a backpack containing two bags of marijuana, paraphernalia, $1,150 and service paperwork with the passenger’s name on it.

The passenger claimed ownership of the marijuana and marijuana-related paraphernalia but did not have a valid medical marijuana license.

The officers issued a court summons for two counts of possessing drug paraphernalia to the passenger, who was released from the scene.

The officers arrested Dalrymple, who denied own-

mower collided, resulting in injuries. One person sustained injuries to the ankle, wrist, hand and head. They were transported to HCA Florida Blake Hospital in Bradenton.

The MCSO polices Cortez.

Holmes Beach

May 23, 6800 block of Palm Drive, property damage. A person called the Holmes Beach Police Department to report that a mailbox was damaged overnight. An officer provided a case number.

May 24, Waterline Marina Resort, 5325 Marina Drive, Marchman Act/trespass. An officer responded to reports of an unconscious woman in a restroom and woke her with verbal commands. The woman smelled of alcohol and did not know her whereabouts. The officer supervised as an employee trespassed the woman. Manatee County Emergency Medical Services were called but told the officer the woman was intoxicated and refusing treatment. The officer placed her in custody under the Marchman Act and transported her to HCA Florida Blake Hospital in Bradenton.

May 25, 600 block of Manatee Avenue, reckless driving. An officer responded to reports of a reckless driver and spoke with the complainant, a woman who said another motorist ran her off the road and had a verbal altercation with another driver. She said her vehicle was damaged by driving off the road to avoid a collision. She provided a description of the motorist and vehicle. An officer provided a case number.

May 26, 29th Street, Baker Act. An officer responded to a be-on-lookout order from the Braden-

ership of any drugs and claimed she and her passenger switched seats since she was the only one who had a license.

An officer transported Dalrymple to the Manatee County jail, where she was released the same day after posting $2,120 bond.

If convicted, punishment for a third-degree felony charge includes up to five years in prison, five years of probation and a fine of up to $5,000.

Punishment for a first-degree misdemeanor includes up to one year in jail, one year of probation and a fine of up to $1,000.

Punishment for a second-degree misdemeanor includes up to 60 days in jail, six months of probation and a fine of up to $500

An arraignment will be at 9 a.m. Friday, July 7, at the Manatee County Judicial Center, 1051 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton.

ton Beach Police Department for a man who’d posted on social media about committing suicide. The officer found the man, who said his post wasn’t serious. The officer placed the man in custody under the Baker Act and began to transport him to Centerstone Behavioral Hospital in Bradenton. However, the officer rerouted to HCA Florida Blake Hospital in Bradenton after the man injured himself by slamming his head into the police vehicle’s partition. After he was medically cleared, he was transported to a care facility.

May 26, 3000 block of Avenue E, stolen vehicle. An officer responded to reports of a stolen rental vehicle where the complainant said his vehicle had gone missing from the driveway. The officer issued a be-on-lookout order for the vehicle and entered it into databases as stolen.

May 28, Manatee Public Beach, 4000 Gulf Drive, criminal mischief. A woman called the HBPD to report that a man slammed his hands on the hood of her car, resulting in several dents, while yelling at her about taking a parking spot. The man told police the motorist had almost hit him, and that he slammed the hood of her vehicle once.

May 28, 500 block of 65th Street, disturbance. An officer responded to reports of a disturbance involving two motorists and a firearm. The officer found the motorists. One motorist told police the other pointed a gun at him while passing him at the intersection of Gulf Drive and Manatee Avenue. The other motorist

PLeASe, See STREETLIFE, neXT PAGe

1st responders rescue man from bay

By Robert Anderson Islander Reporter

Manatee County’s emergency medical services and sheriff’s office deputies coordinated May 26 with the U.S. Coast Guard Station Cortez to rescue a 25-yearold man from the nearshore waters of Sarasota Bay.

The rescue was just off Cow Key — about a halfmile from the southern shore of Cortez and a popular anchorage for live-aboard boaters seeking a shallowwater harbor.

U.S. Coast Guard Station Cortez Senior Chief William Flores told The Islander May 26 that the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office dispatch contacted the USCG at 8:25 p.m. May 26, asking for assistance in transporting deputies to a vessel to investigate a possible drowning.

Station Cortez sent out a boat but the tide was out and the draft of their vessel was too deep for it to approach in shallow water.

So MCSO deputies approached on a shallow draft vessel and located a man in the water. The deputies performed a water rescue, bringing the unidentified man to docks at 123rd Avenue West in Cortez, where they were met by an EMS team that rendered CPR.

MCSO reports indicated the man’s condition as a near drowning. It is unknown if there was an underlying medical condition that led to the incident.

Coast Guard Petty Officer Second Class Zachary Smith said May 28 that the man was taken by ambulance to a nearby hospital for care and was expected to survive.

The Islander contacted MCSO public information officer Randy Warren by email May 31 but, as of Islander press time June 5, he did not respond.

Lenell Houser, public records coordinator with Manatee County, told The Islander June 1 more information may become available when the investigation is closed.

HBPD arrests Riverview man for DUI

By Ryan Paice Islander Reporter

Holmes Beach police arrested Riverview resident Ricky Green, 28, May 27 on a second-degree misdemeanor for allegedly driving under the influence of alcohol.

An offi cer saw a motorist driving a low-speed vehicle without lights near the Island Shopping Center around 3 a.m.

The officer looped into the parking lot of the Waterline Marina Resort to turn around but when he returned to the area the vehicle was gone.

The officer found the motorist in a travel lane in the 5600 block of Flotilla Drive.

The driver had slurred speech and allegedly admitted to drinking alcohol earlier that night. The man

told police he passed the first motorist but did not brandish a firearm at that point. He said the first motorist began following and tailgating him to his home, so he pulled into his driveway and exited his vehicle with a gun in his hand. Both parties agreed not to press charges and signed waivers of prosecution. The officer trespassed one motorist from the other motorist’s property.

May 29, 500 block of 58th Street, arrest warrant. An officer was advised a known wanted person was at his residence in the city, so he and another officer went to the man’s house. The officers spoke with a woman

Bradenton man arrested in BB for hit-and-run

By Robert Anderson Islander Reporter

Kevin Rodriguez, 48, of Bradenton, was arrested May 28 on felony and misdemeanor charges involving an alleged hit-and-run near the Drift-In AMI bar in Bradenton Beach.

Patrons and security staff at the Drift-In, 120 Bridge St., had urged the man not to drive, taking vehicle keys and calling a tow truck, according to witness statements in a Bradenton Beach Police Department report.

However, when a tow truck arrived, the man allegedly took out a second set of keys, started the vehicle and sped away from the parking lot, jumping a curb, spraying outdoor patrons of the establishment with rocks and colliding with a vehicle parked near the bar.

claimed he’d parked the vehicle because it had died and that an auto service was on the way.

The officer asked Green to perform field sobriety exercises, which he refused.

The officer arrested Green and transported him to the Holmes Beach Police Department, where he twice refused to provide a breath sample.

The officer transported Green to the Manatee County jail, where he was released the same day after posting $120 bond.

If convicted, punishment for a second-degree misdemeanor includes up to 60 days in jail and a fine of up to $500.

An arraignment will be at 8:55 a.m. Thursday, June 29, at the Manatee County Judicial Center, 1051 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton.

who let them inside, where they found the wanted man sleeping. The officers confirmed the warrant, arrested and transported the man to the Manatee County jail.

May 29, Post Office, 5354 Gulf Drive, property damage. An officer responded to reports of a damaged vehicle and spoke with the complainant, who said her vehicle was damaged overnight. The officer provided a case number.

The HBPD polices the city.

Streetlife is based on incident reports and narratives from the BBPD, HBPD and MCSO.

BBPD Officer Devon Straight pursued the motorist, who allegedly drove into oncoming lanes and forced vehicles off the road.

The BBPD report said Straight, to protect the public, reduced his speed and followed the motorist without lights and from a distance as MCSO helicopter pilots tracked Rodriguez from the air.

Rodriguez lost control of his vehicle and crashed into a driveway on 57th Avenue West in Bradenton, according to the BBPD report.

There, MCSO deputies took Rodriguez into custody and transported him to the Manatee County jail in Palmetto.

Rodriguez is charged with felony fleeing to elude a law enforcement officer, which upon conviction carries a punishment of up to five years in prison, as well as license suspension and vehicle forfeiture.

He also faces charges of second-degree misdemeanor driving under the influence, first-degree misdemeanor refusal to submit to DUI testing and felony third-degree driving with a suspended license.

If convicted of DUI, Rodriguez could face 60 days in jail and a $500 fine.

If convicted of refusal to submit to DUI testing, Rodriguez could have his driver’s license suspended for at least one year.

If convicted of felony driving with a suspended license, he could face up to five years in prison, five years of probation and $5,000 in fines.

Rodriguez’s arraignment will be at 9 a.m. Wednesday, June 7, at the Manatee County Judicial Center, 1051 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton.

Chef-driven Bohemian Restaurant gets HB site plan OK

By Ryan Paice Islander Reporter

A new restaurant is on the menu in Holmes Beach.

City commissioners unanimously voted May 23 to approve a site plan and outdoor dining request for the Bohemian Restaurant, 5910 Marina Drive, owned by Tampa chef and Anna Maria Island native Jeannie Pierola.

The 6,256-square-foot multi-tenant building is owned by SM&L Inc., with Judy Duncan and Zee Catanese as corporate officers.

Other tenants include Isola Bella Restaurant, 5904 Marina Drive, and the Crown Castle USA cell tower.

Duncan Real Estate, owned by Darcie Duncan, daughter of co-owner Judy Duncan, occupies a rear office at 5914 Marina Drive that formerly housed Barnes Walker Title.

The frontage on Marina Drive, the vacant Island Grill at 5912 Marina Drive, will be the Bohemian.

Halflants & Pichette project manager Ana Meneses presented the architect’s plans for the property to the commission.

The restaurant plans include about half the building with 100 seats inside and 53 seats outdoors.

Proposed improvements include a wood deck and

patio with canopy, a sidewalk and changes to vehicle circulation and parking.

The property will have no access from Marina Drive. Instead, motorists will enter the lot via 60th Street and leave via 59th Street.

Neil Schwartz, the city’s building offi cial, said staff recommended approval of the site plan and outdoor dining, with three conditions:

• Prohibit amplified outdoor music;

• Require the applicant to obtain a local business tax receipt noting 100 indoor seats and 53 outdoor seats prior to occupancy;

• Require the applicant to apply for a building permit for site improvements within 90 days of the city approving a site plan.

Two people spoke in opposition to the plan.

Holmes Beach resident Margie Motzer said the improvements would be an aesthetic upgrade for the area but she favors limiting development. She said the proposal would increase density and intensity.

Vicki Cusack of Isola Bella said the Bohemian’s plans are “gorgeous” but not without impact to her restaurant.

Cusack said the current plan would eliminate some common space previously shared by the tenants, as well as limit Isola Bella’s visibility.

“This is taking our shared space away from us,” Cusack said. “The rendering that shows where their hostess stand would be — that’s our entrance to our building. … The way this is designed, it has our guests walking through a restaurant to get to our restaurant.”

“I would be thrilled to have them as a neighbor but I don’t want to lose our visibility or accessibility,” she added.

City attorney Erica Augello told commissioners such issues were civil matters to be handled between landlord and tenants.

Commissioner Terry Schaefer said the Bohemian would be a “beautiful addition” to the city.

“I think it’s very encouraging that someone who … has a history here is coming back to invest in the island,” Schaefer said.

Commissioner Pat Morton moved to approve the site plan and outdoor seating request.

Schaefer seconded the motion, which passed. The commission will meet next at 2 p.m. Tuesday, June 13, at city hall, 5801 Marina Drive.

Directions to watch a livestream of the meeting can be found on the city’s website, holmesbeachfl . org.

RoadWatch

Eyes on the road

• Anna Maria Island Bridge on Manatee Avenue: Crews will perform maintenance 9 p.m.-5 a.m. Thursday, June 8, on the bridge. The Florida Department of Transportation advises motorists to find an alternate route as traffic will be reduced to one lane with flagging operations.

• City center in Holmes Beach : Work continues near the intersection of Gulf and Marina drives on infrastructure improvements. Traffic patterns can change. For the latest, check the city’s page on Facebook.

Also, Manatee County is working on a force main project in the city center area. For the latest, go to amiprojects.io.

Motorists traveling May 31 on Gulf Drive South near 11th Street South in Bradenton Beach are routed through a parking lot at Cortez Beach as a crew from Woodruff & Sons cuts trenches across Gulf Drive for a Manatee County sewer relocation project. The project involves digging trenches along Gulf Drive and the replacement of gravity sewer lines from Sixth Street South to 13th Street South. The project is entering a phase in which workers prepare trenches to carry the sewer lines to residences. The project is scheduled to be completed in July 2024.

• Gulf Drive in Bradenton Beach : Manatee County is relocating and replacing sewer lines along the west side of Gulf Drive from Sixth Street South to 11th Street South. Public parking along the west side of Gulf between Sixth Street South and 10th Street South reopened. Public parking along the west side of Gulf Drive South between 10th Street South and 13th Street South was closed. For the latest, go to amiprojects. io.

For area road watch information, go online to swflroads.com or dial 511.

— Lisa neff

Islander

Photo: Robert Anderson

road is a parking lot, or is the parking lot a road?

Construction work at a Sandpiper Resort mobile home, 725 27th St., triggered a variance request to reduce a setback requirement.

Bradenton Beach extends building official agreement

Bradenton Beach commissioners voted June 1 to extend a contract between the city and M.T. Causley LLC for building official services.

The five-year extension includes an increase in hourly rates.

The contract also contains a revised fee schedule under which M.T. Causley, a Homestead-based building and government service company, bills work required by the city.

The building official will operate on a weekly rate of $3,952, with plan examination and inspector services to be paid at $95 per hour.

Permit clerk fees will be $65 per hour and architect and engineering services $145.60 per hour.

The contract includes planning services, allowing 24 hours a week at $109 per hour, with work beyond 24 hours to be billed at $182 per hour.

Steve Gilbert, a certified building official employed by M.T. Causley, has been doing contract work for the city since 2007.

Commissioner Ralph Cole motioned to extend the contract and was seconded by Commissioner Jake Spooner. The vote passed 3-0.

Commissioners Marilyn Maro and Jan Vosburgh were absent with excuse.

The next commission meeting will be at noon, Thursday, June 15, at city hall, 107 Gulf Drive N.

— Robert Anderson

Special master to hear Sandpiper variance request

A special master will hear a variance request from a Sandpiper Resort homeowner during a hearing June 7 at Bradenton Beach City Hall.

Mayor John Chappie said Marisa Powers, an attorney at the Blalock Walters firm, will serve as special master. Powers practices law in the areas of local government, litigation and land use.

Patrick J. Burch, owner of the residence, made application with the building department in October 2022 for lot 725 at the Sandpiper, seeking a variance relief of 3.5 feet from the 4-foot setback required by the land development code.

A variance is permission for a property to go outside the limits of a zoning code and to build something that would otherwise be illegal under zoning or land development regulations.

Bill Wisotzke, secretary for the Sandpiper co-op, told The Islander May 31 that the request stems from the replacement of deteriorated front stairs at a mobile home along 27th Street within the park.

The Burch home previously had a stair case but the newly constructed stairs exceed the previous stairs

by a few inches.

Wisotzke said a contractor in late 2022 was told by the city’s code enforcement department that the work required a variance.

The special master will decide whether to allow the variance for the new stairs.

The hearing is at 10 a.m., Wednesday, June 7, at city hall, 107 Gulf Drive N.

— Robert Anderson

Islander archive 24/7

The Islander archive is included in the University of Florida George A. Smathers Libraries dating back to our beginning in 1992. It’s all maintained on the library site, searchable by key word, name or date.

Look online for The Islander at the UofF Florida digital newspaper collection at ufdc.ufl.edu.

Steve Gilbert serves as the Bradenton Beach building official under a contract between the city and his employer, M.T. Causley LLC. Islander Photo: Robert Anderson

Islander Photo: Robert Anderson

And the winners are…

By Kevin P. Cassidy Islander Reporter

Fifty-nine golfers played in the annual Memorial Day scramble to kick off holiday golf action at the Key Royale Club in Holmes Beach.

Two teams tied for first place with scores of 4-under-par 28, sending the scramble to a scorecard playoff. The team of Jim Goff, Bill MacMillan and Ken Nagengast prevailed to take first-place and relegate Dom Livedoti, Chris and Tom Nelson and Blake Ress to second.

Natalie Brotchi won closest-to-the-pin for the women, while Dave Richardson won the closest prize for the men. Brotchi also captured the women’s longdrive competition, while Chris Nelson hit the longest ball for the men.

Brenda O’Brien came out the top putter among the women players, while Scott Mitchell won the men’s contest. Jody Maleeny won the straightest-drive among the women, while Quentin Talbert hit the straightest drive among the men.

Following the golf, the members enjoyed burgers, hot dogs, salads and desserts on the patio.

The KRC women took over the course May 30 for a nine-hole individual-low-net match. Sue Wheeler fired a 2-over-par 34 to win first place by one stroke over second-place finisher Margrit Layh. Betsy Meyer and Terry Westby tied for third place with matching 4-over-par 36s.

Members were back on the course June 1 for a nine-hole scramble. The team of Marty Hicks, Ken Karsi and Ron Vandeman combined on a 2-underpar 30 to earn clubhouse bragging rights for the day. The team of Dom Livedoti, Bill MacMillan and Bill Sweeney matched the 1-under-par 31 carded by Hoyt Miller, Ken Nagengast, Bill Shuman and Larry Solberg to finish in a tie for second place.

Horseshoe news

No report this week.

Play gets underway at 9 a.m. Wednesdays and Saturdays at the Anna Maria pits. Warmups begin at 8:45 a.m., followed by random team selection.

There is no charge to play and everyone is welcome.

What’s upcoming on the center sports calendar?

Play ball!

Which sport? Kickball. Football. Soccer.

The Center of Anna Maria Island lined up a season of games and registering players and teams for three sports leagues:

• Youth indoor soccer for kids ages 3-14 will run June 13-Aug. 8. Games at the center, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria, will be played 5:30-9 p.m. Mondays and Tuesdays.

Registration has closed.

• Adult kickball runs June 19-Aug. 14, with games played 6-9 p.m. Mondays.

The center is registering teams at $500 each, with a late fee applied after June 5.

• The adult flag football schedule includes games

June 15-Aug. 10, with kickoff at 6 p.m. Thursdays.

Registration for football is closed but people can catch a game at the center, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria.

For more information, contact the center at recreation@centerami.org or 941-778-1908, ext. 210.

Center signing up campers

The Center of Anna Maria Island’s summer day camps feature a lineup of activities and programs for sports-minded kids, including:

• Sailing. The camp, presented in partnership with Bimini Bay Sailing, is for those ages 10-16.

Campers will get personal instruction over a twoday program, with 9 a.m.-noon sessions offered June 12-13, June 14-15, June 19-20, June 21-22, June 26-27 and June 28-29.

The cost to enroll is $200 for center members, $225 for nonmembers.

• Soccer. The center offers soccer camp for older and younger kids.

Camps for kids from kindergarten-fifth-grade run June 12-15, June 19-22, June 26-29, July 10-13, July 17-20 and July 24-28.

The cost per week is $130 for members, $155 for nonmembers.

The camp for older kids, up to ninth-grade, will be July 17.

The cost is $40 for members and $50 for nonmembers.

• Tumbling and dance. Instruction Thursday, June 8, will be for kids K-second grade; Tuesday, June 13, for kids third-fifth-grade; Tuesday, June 15, for kids sixth-ninth-grade.

Campers will learn ballet technique, jazz dance moves and tumbling with teacher Caitlyn Cobb from Star Academy of Dance and Aerial Arts.

The cost is $55 for members and $65 for nonmembers.

For more information, call the center at 941-7781908 or visit at 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria.

—Lisa neff

On their marks, Tour de Turtle prep begins

Ready. Set. Tag.

The annual Tour de Turtles will begin later this summer, an educational and research effort by the Sea Turtle Conservancy and its partners that involves tagging sea turtles to track them in a distance “race.”

The Tour de Turtles annually begins Aug. 1, with the conservancy tracking tagged sea turtles for about three months, as they swim and nest.

The outcome of the “race” is based on which turtle swims the farthest during the migration marathon.

On Anna Maria Island, the Sea Turtle Conservancy’s partner is Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring, a nonprofit group that

patrols the beaches each morning to document and collect nesting data.

Also, a local business partner — sponsor of AMI’s racer — is Waterline Resorts of Holmes Beach.

The conservancy announced in late May plans to place a satellite tracker on a nesting turtle on AMI on June 26-27 and to release the turtle at about 8:30 a.m. June 27.

The location of the release will be announced early June 27, after the tagging of the turtle.

At the public event, which is free to attend, the conservancy will sell Tour de Turtle T-shirts for $20.

For more about the Tour de Turtles, go online to tourdeturtles.org or conserveturtles.org.

— Lisa neff

Cassidy

Bill MacMillan, left, Jim Goff and Ken nagengast stop for a photo on taking the trophy in the annual Memorial Day golf scramble at the Key Royale Club in Holmes Beach. Islander Photo: Courtesy of KRC

Silver kings remain top targeted species, bucket-list catch

By Capt. Danny Stasny Islander Reporter

For yet another week, tarpon are the highlight for anglers around Anna Maria Island.

As the fish are popular to target, you can bet they are receiving quite a bit of pressure as they meander up and down the beaches of Longboat Key, Anna Maria Island and Egmont Key.

If you are among those angling for a hookup, your tackle box will need an extra supply of patience.

Here’s some more advice for tarpon season.

I recommend fi nding the fi sh on your own and avoiding hoarding in on other boats as they are working a school of silver kings. Try to set up ahead of a school and wait your turn, as multiple boats working a school typically results in nobody hooking up.

Like any fish, there are times when tarpon become naive while feeding and don’t seem to be disturbed by boat traffic but these instances don’t happen often. In fact, your best approach is to assume the fish could be spooked at a moment’s notice — so be quiet and lead the fish when you present a bait.

And if you hear “fish on” or see a fish take the hook from an angler on another boat, be courteous enough to “give the angler the road.” Watch where the fish is going and stay out of the way. If that means you have to reel up, so be it.

When fighting a fish upwards of 150 pounds, it’s difficult to control where they go. So it’s up to the good sports on the water to move out of the way. The last thing you want is to get an earful because you made no effort to accommodate another angler’s catch.

Let’s just say, finding your own fish is the best scenario. Then you don’t have to worry about obstructions. You can sit back and enjoy the punishment in store for you as the large fish kicks your butt. And, if you mess up, spook the fish, overrun or cast a bait right on top of its head, there’s nobody around to see. Save yourself some embarrassment.

On my Just Reel charters, I’m enjoying the tranquility of the backcountry while everyone else is hunting tarpon.

The catch-and-release snook bite is going well, with numerous hookups during morning tides.

Free-lining live shiners along mangrove edges and along sandy beaches is resulting in many fish being reeled to the boat.

Spotted seatrout also are being caught by my clients, especially around deeper grass areas during incoming tides.

Lastly, we’re starting to catch mangrove snapper around structure and on deeper flats.

Capt. David White is spending most of his days targeting tarpon along local beaches on the Gulf of Mexico.

Using live crabs before sunrise or during evening outgoing tides is working well to get the silver kings to bite. In between, while the sun is high in the sky, live threadfin herring are the bait of choice. White says most hookups are running 75-100 pounds, with larger fish mixed in.

On days when he’s taking a break from tarpon hunting, White is working in Tampa Bay for inshore species, where he says catch-and-release snook fishing is producing good action on the flats and along the

beaches. Spotted seatrout are another species being reeled up by White’s clients, as well as some large redfish.

Capt. Warren Girle is targeting tarpon most days, and finding schooling fish along the beaches is bringing the best action.

Live crabs as bait work well before sunrise.

After sunrise, Girle is switching to live threadfin herring for bait.

With numerous boats on the water in search of tarpon, Girle says he’s traveling to find fish that have yet to be tampered with by the pack. The fish seem to bite a lot better, according to Girle.

On other days, Girle is backwater fishing in Tampa

Tarpon handling guidelines

Do not target tarpon from bridges or piers — releasing tarpon from bridges or piers requires specialized lifting gear or cutting the line, which leaves long amounts of line trailing the fish.

Do not drag tarpon over the gunnel of a boat. use a dehooking tool. Tarpon smaller than 40 inches should be supported horizontally when removed from the water. Do not fish tarpon when large, predatory sharks are nearby feeding. If sharks show up, move to another location.

Minimum size limit: none.

Tarpon over 40 inches must remain in the water unless in pursuit of a state or world record using a tarpon tag. Keep tarpon, especially the gills, in as

Bay, which is yielding the top bay trio — catch-andrelease snook, spotted seatrout and redfish.

At the Rod & Reel Pier, anglers are enjoying action on redfish and catch-and-release snook. Both species are being caught on a variety of baits, including live shrimp pinfish and mojarras.

Mangrove snapper are making a showing and are taking offerings of live shrimp as well as small shiners as bait.

Lastly, casting jigs and spoons away from the pier is luring Spanish mackerel and jack crevalle to the hook.

Send high-resolution photos and fishing reports to fish@islander.org.

much water as possible.

Daily bag limit: Tarpon is a catch-and-release only fishery. One tarpon tag per person per year may be purchased when in pursuit of a Florida state or world record. Vessel, transport and shipment limited to one fish.

Tarpon gear: Hook and line only.

Snagging, snatch hooking, spearing and the use of a multiple hook in conjunction with live or dead natural bait is prohibited.

use barbless, single, non-offset circle hooks for natural bait.

use single hooks rather than treble hooks.

Want to learn more? Search the FWC site for tarpon.

use tackle heavy enough to land the tarpon quickly, minimizing exhaustion, and helping the fish avoid predators after release.

Stasny

“Apparently a slow-learning blacktip shark,” Capt. David White of Anna Maria Charters joked while preparing to remove the hook. He hooked the small shark May 31 off Passage Key in Tampa Bay at the northern tip of Anna Maria Island.

Turtle watch, Mote tag ‘Steve’ the sea turtle

A male loggerhead sea turtle — nicknamed Steve — was rehabbed and released June 1 by Mote Marine Laboratory’s Sea Turtle Rehabilitation Hospital after being outfitted with a satellite tag by Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch.

The release took place at Lido Beach in Sarasota County.

Steve’s tracking tag is expected to provide data for conservation efforts.

The turtle washed ashore March 28 on Captiva in Lee County and was transported to Mote’s sea turtle hospital on City Island in Sarasota.

Upon arrival, the turtle appeared lethargic and initial observations suggested Steve was affected by toxins from red tide.

Mote placed the loggerhead on injectable antibiotics and subcutaneous fluids until the symptoms of red tide toxicity improved.

After about two months of care, wildlife officials deemed Steve ready to return to the Gulf.

Prior to the release, Steve was outfitted with a tag — a transmitter that sends a message to a satellite each time the turtle goes to the surface to breathe, providing researchers with the turtle’s location.

“Today’s release is just as rewarding as the first turtle I released with Mote 23 years ago,” said Lynn

Byrd, Mote’s rehabilitation and medical care manager.

Byrd said Steve would have died without the rescue and rehab.

“With this second chance at life, Steve is able to provide valuable research data for the conservation of his species as the Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch outfitted him with a satellite tag, which can be tracked on Mote’s website,” Byrd added.

Male sea turtles do not return to land after they leave the beach as hatchlings unless they are injured or sick.

So they can be a more elusive group to study.

By satellite tagging adult male loggerheads that stranded and received hospital care, scientists can learn about the behavior, habitat, home range and migratory pathways of adult male loggerheads in the Gulf of Mexico.

— Lisa neff

On the web

To follow Steve the sea turtle’s track, go to mote. org/seaturtletracking.

The Mote Marine Laboratory team pulls Steve, a loggerhead sea turtle, to the shore at Lido Beach for a June 1 release. Islander Photos: Courtesy Mote Marine Laboratory

Loggerhead Steve, outfitted with a tracking device, heads toward the water from Lido Beach. To follow Steve, go online to mote.org/ seaturtletracking.

By Lisa Neff

Mer-tastic times

The kids encountered pirates in Anna Maria. They saw a celebrity dolphin named Winter in Clearwater.

They met a manatee named Snooty in Bradenton.

But the unrivaled highlight of a Neff family summer vacation was seeing the enchanting mermaids of Weeki Wachee Springs State Park.

We saw the mermaids perform their fairy tale show not once but three times in a day.

And between shows we caught a glimpse of the mermaids on break — one flopped on a deck reading a paperback book and another smoking a cigarette.

The mermaids captivated.

The mermaids mesmerized.

The mermaids bewildered.

It’s a wonder none of the Neff kids have decided to go into mermaiding.

“Mermaiding” is a word you’ll hear repeatedly in “MerPeople,” a four-part docuseries on Netflix.

I binge-watched “MerPeople” over the Memorial Day weekend when my wife and I couldn’t get our holiday clocks aligned to catch Disney’s “The Little Mermaid” at a theater.

“MerPeople” — by the creators of “Queer Eye” — premiered on the streaming service May 23.

The series profi les all types of merfolk — performers, designers, athletes and activists — and their Shangri-La, the most magical place in all of merkingdom, is Florida’s Weeki Wachee, just a daytrip from AMI.

I asked around. Plenty of locals value Weeki Wachee’s proximity.

One former islander, professional photographer Andrew Brusso, has helped raise money to continue the park’s operation by shooting glossy, limited-edition calendars featuring mermaids sparkly enough to dive onto a Taylor Swift stage.

A retired mermaid featured in “MerPeople” says she longs to return to the Weeki Wachee springs, where she says the waters are pristine, pure, ancient and swimming in them is like being in the “womb of Mother Earth.”

Another retired mermaid recalls walking into the Weeki Wachee auditorium a tourist and walking out transformed, liberated, knowing her dream.

A working mermaid in the series remarks that mermaiding is becoming so popular — with pageants, conventions, performances — that there might be mermaiding going on in your backyard.

Maybe so.

Go look.

Certainly we’ve seen photo evidence at The Islander of mermaiding on AMI beaches over the years.

Health department reports case of malaria in Manatee

The Florida Department of Health in Sarasota and Manatee counties issued a caution about mosquitoborne illness after a confirmed case of malaria.

The health department in a May 26 news release said the individual, who spent extensive time outdoors, was treated at a hospital and recovered.

The department said the infected individual lived in the vicinity of the Sarasota Bradenton International Airport, which is why a caution also was issued for Sarasota County.

No additional cases were reported as of June 2.

In response to the case, the health department reminded people to take precautions, including:

• Use mosquito repellent that contains DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon, eucalyptus, para-menthane-diol, 2-undecanone or IR3535;

• Wear long sleeves and pants;

• Check and repair screens on doors and windows to prevent mosquitoes from entering your home.

Also, to help reduce the population of mosquitoes, people should drain areas that collect water around

homes and businesses.

Mosquitoes reproduce in fresh and brackish water from sprinklers, rainstorms and other sources.

So people should drain pools of standing water, as well as empty pet bowls, garbage cans, garbage can lids, bottles, tires and anything where freshwater accumulates.

For health-related information about mosquitoborne illnesses, go online to the state health department’s site at floridahealth.gov.

For information about mosquito control in Manatee County, go online to www.manateemosquito. com.

— Lisa neff

Did you know?

Malaria is not transmitted from person to person. Only infected anopheles mosquitoes can transmit malaria to people.

Symptoms include fever, chills, sweats, nausea, vomiting and headaches.

ABOVe LeFT: An image from “MerPeople,” a four-part docuseries on netflix. ABOVe RIGHT: The cover of the “Weeki Wachee Mermaids” calendar for 2009, photographed by former islander Andrew Brusso. Islander Courtesy Photos

Pippa neff visits in June 2014 with a mermaid at Weeki Wachee Springs State Park. Islander Photo: Lisa neff

In September 2017, professional photographer erica Johnson caught a candid photo of an unidentified merman resting on the shore in Bradenton Beach. Islander File Photo

ITEMS FOR SALE

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AnTIQue PARTneR DeSK: All wood, $500. Inquire at The Islander office, 315 58th St. Suite J, Holmes Beach. 941-778-7978.

FREEBIE ITEMS FOR SALE

Individuals may place one free ad with up to three items, each priced $100 or less, 15 words or less. FRee, one week, must be submitted online. email classifieds@islander. org, fax toll-free 1-866-362-9821. (limited time offer)

Sandy’s Lawn Service Inc.

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RDI CONSTRUCTION INC.

AdoptA-Pet

Oh, those eyes!

Bella is an 8-year-old mixed-breed lovebug!

She’s neutered and has all vaccinations — ready to meet her new family! Call Lisa Williams at 941-3452441 or visit The Islander office in Holmes Beach. And for more about pet adoption, visit moonraceranimalrescue.com.

SPOnSOReD BY

ANSWERS TO JUNE 7 PUZZLE

ANNOUNCEMENTS

SPeCIALIZInG In BACHeLOReTTe parties. Call Michael Sue Scott. Intuitive reader. 941726-1234. www.michaelsuescott.com

PETS

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

TRANSPORTATION

GOLF CART RenTALS: Fun for residents and tourists! www.GolfCartRentalAMI.com.

BOATS & BOATING

HAVe A BOAT and wanna catch more fish, better bait or learn the water? 50-year local fisherman, your boat, my knowledge. Captain Chris, 941-896-2915.

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nOW HIRInG HAnDYMAn: Full-time professional services. $18 an hour and up, based on experience. Call JayPros, 941962-2874.

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

THe ISLAnDeR OFFeRS the best results for your clas sified advertising dollar. We really work for you! Submit your ad no later than noon Monday on the website, islander. org. For Monday holidays, the deadline is Friday.

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API’S DRYWALL RePAIR: I look forward to servicing your drywall repair needs. Call 941524-8067 to schedule an appointment.

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HOME IMPROVEMENT

VAn-GO PAInTInG residential/commercial, interior/exterior, pressure cleaning, wallpaper. Island references. Bill, 941-795-5100. www.vangopainting.net.

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RENTALS

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LOnG-TeRM RenTAL: Furnished six months-plus. new upscale, modern home with mother-in-law suite in amazing Palma Sola. 3BR/3BA, two kitchens and two living areas, two patios, .30 acres. Three miles from Anna Maria Island. $5,600 per month, lawn maintenance and trash removal included. Available July 1. no pets. 813-362-5881.

BeACH LIFe! AnnuAL rental! 55-plus park, 1BR/1BA. Beach just across the street. Furnished, pool, parking. $1,635/month, Vetting done by the office. no pets. 831-212-2606.

AnnuAL RenTAL: 1BR/1BA available July 1. no pets. Close to beach. $1,800/month. First, last, security. 941-807-1405.

TOTALLY ReMODeLeD, AnnuAL rental. Ground-level, parking adjacent, 2BR/1.5 BA plus sofa bed. Washer and dryer, in 55-plus community located on Anna Maria Island. Beach is 300 steps away, bay is 200 steps away. Fire pit at bay. Heated pool and library in park. $3,200/month, includes all utilities and WIFI. no pets and no smoking. enjoy life on Anna Maria Island. Call Tim, 507-382-8880.

SeASOnAL RenTAL: HOLMeS Beach. One room studio. Large bathroom, kitchen, bed alcove. Private patio and parking. Dec. 15-April 15. no pets, no smoking. Total, $8,400. 908-914-1182.

AnnuAL LeASe RenTAL on Anna Maria Island. 2BR/1BA, very clean ground-level 1,000-sf home/duplex only steps to Gulf beach. Presently unfurnished. $2,350/ month,including utilities heat/AC, trash and water. no smoking, no pets. 508-496-8480. williamshomes@yahoo.com

AnnuAL RenTAL: 1BR/1BA, porch, carport, large lot. Close to water. $1,500/month. 941266-0439.

DeSIRABLe, QuIeT, SAFe second-floor duplex for rent. 3BR/2BA fully furnished, bed linens, dishware, washer/dryer. Five minutes to AMI. Includes all utilities except electric. Annual, $2,800. Will consider three-month, six-month. no smoking. Contact Kelly, 941301-9938.

WInnIe MCHALe, ReALTOR, 941-5046146. Rosebay International Realty Inc. You need an aggressive and experienced Realtor in today’s market! Selling island homes, Sarasota and Bradenton areas. Multi-milliondollar producer! “Selling Homes - Making Dreams Come True.”

MORe BAnG FOR YOuR BuCK? It’s an old saying, but it’s still true when it comes to The Islander. Look for more online at islander. org.

By Lisa Neff

Well, well wellness

The Resort at Longboat Key Club is celebrating Global Wellness Day with a series of free offerings, including free spa and wellness classes.

The resort is in the Opal Collection, a luxury hotel family that’s offering special Global Wellness Day deals at eight destinations Saturday, June 10.

The Resort at Longboat Key Club, 220 Sands Point Road, Longboat Key, is taking reservations for a healthy light breakfast, Zumba classes, guided meditation and more.

For more information, including reservations, call the club at 941-387-1587.

Salut!

Veronica Afonzo June 1 hosts an Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce breakfast in the French restaurant she manages, Mademoiselle Paris, 9906 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria. The restaurant, owned by Myriam and Jean Dandonneau, serves breakfast, lunch and dinner and offers baked goods daily. For more information, contact Mademoiselle Paris at 941-226-0708 or mademoiselleparis.com. Islander Photos: Courtesy AMICofC

Joseph Santaguida of JSAn Corporation, left, Scott Hoogewind and Ryan and Marcy Pfahler of GI Bins, Logan nichols of Island Real estate, Brian Sharkey of the Sharkey Agency, John Lappin of Concord Home Mortgage, Judy Lukacs of Trusco Bank, Bill Romberger of Duncan Real estate and Barbara Murphy of Travel now enjoy a chamber breakfast at Mademoiselle Paris. The restaurant, 9906 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria, also will host a chamber luncheon at 11:30 a.m. Thursday, June 8.

WATERFRONT LIVING – 2 miles to ANNA MARIA ISLAND. Priced under $475,000. Beautifully remodeled PERICO BAY CLUB.

Monica Newcomer Coldwell Banker Realtor call/text 941-545-4980 monicanewcomer@aol.com

Once Upon A Beach

ANNA MARIA ISLAND ��� Bayview Drive

Beds � � Baths � ����� SF Hannah Hillyard & George Myers

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ANNA MARIA ISLAND ���� E Bay Drive ��� � Beds � � Baths � ����� SF Kathy Harman

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ANNA MARIA ISLAND

��nd Street � � Beds � Baths � ����� SF Amy Ward & Kathy Harman