The Islander Newspaper E-Edition: Wednesday, April 13, 2022 by The Anna Maria Islander Newspaper

happy Easter

VOLUME 30, NO. 25

APRIL 13, 2022 FRee

The Best News on Anna Maria island Since 1992 astheworldterns. 6 HB speed restrictions off to good start. 2

Q&A 041322

Pine Ave. gains historic designation. 4

Meetings 4 contractors settle in workplace death. 5

Opinions 6

10-20 YeArs Ago

looking back. 7

BB crA addresses mixed bag of issues. 8 BB names charter review committee. 9

Save the date. 10-11

Happenings community events. 10-11

AMe calendar. 13

Gathering. 14

HB man makes, gives skateboards. 15

GoodDeeds 15 Obituaries 15 Bridge St. clock tower needs repair. 18

Streetlife 20

Cops & Courts 20-21 Storm season outlook. 23 Sports roundup. 24 Windy angling. 25 Swinging for par. 26 community center finances slide. 27

cLASSIFIEDS. 28-29

PropertyWatch. 30

NYT puzzle. 31

find The islander dating to November 1992 online at the uoff Digital Newspaper collection at ufdc.ufl.edu.

islander.org

they hunt easter eggs island style colored eggs dotting the sand on the beachfront at the Moose lodge No. 2188 in Bradenton Beach are the target of children in an April 9 easter egg hunt. Mia Taake, 6, leads the pack of kids, resplendent in rabbit ears and a white easter dress and equipped with a bunny bucket. islander Photo: robert Anderson

Easter

For information about local worship services, including the annual Kiwanis Club Easter sunrise service on the beach, see page 14.

Vacation scam hits island rental By Kane Kaiman islander reporter

There’s never a good time for a fakeation. On Valentine’s Day, Delaware resident Rob Sweeney surprised his wife with an April trip to Holmes Beach. But they were both in for a surprise April 2 as they pulled up to their Bamboo Apartments unit. “Somebody pulled in right behind our car. And I got out and he goes, ‘Oh, this is our unit,’” Sweeney said April 8. Sweeny promptly called property manager Alice Sutton, who said the Sweeneys didn’t have a reservation. “And then I’m like, ‘Oh, my God, we got frauded,’” Sweeney said. He paid for the weeklong April stay in A sign posted at Bamboo Apartments in Holmes Beach April 8. An internet scammer created a phony rental agreement for a Bamboo unit and used it to defraud a Delaware couple. islander Photo: Kane Kaiman

January after communicating with “Damian Janssen,” who reached out via email as Sweeney browsed a HomeAway/Vrbo website. Janssen sent him a four-page rental agreement that included a property ID number and listed Doug Stewart and Sutton as property owners. The agreement contained credit card payment instructions. Sweeney was directed to a URL with the phrase “send-money-toireland” where he input Stewart’s information, including a residence in Dublin, Ireland. “I got caught up in everything, you know, thinking, ‘Oh, I got a nice property.’ And the price was pretty reasonable and, obviously, it wasn’t real,” Sweeney said.

court date looms for 18Yo at-large battery suspect By ryan Paice islander reporter

Court proceedings on an unrelated misdemeanor charge for one of the suspects in a Holmes Beach aggravated battery case may add a wrinkle to the case. Cameron Evans, 18, remains at large in connection with the alleged battery of a Holmes Beach resident. The Sarasota resident evans is one of three teenagers the Holmes Beach Police Department identified as assailants in an alleged March 23 aggravated battery at about 9 p.m. outside Anna Maria Elementary TurN To scam, PAge 3 School, 4700 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, that sent Evan Purcell, 41, of Holmes Beach, to the hospital. The HBPD also sought Ellenton resident John Bartholow, 17, and an unnamed juvenile as suspects in connection with the incident. Police found and arrested Bartholow and the third juvenile surrendered and was released to his parents’ custody. Holmes Beach Police Chief Bill Tokajer told The Islander April 6 that police had received several tips about Evans’ location but none proved productive. “But we want people to keep calling, we want to get the tips,” Tokajer said. “We’d like to get him off the streets for the safety

TurN To suspect, PAge 3

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Holmes Beach’s citywide speed-limit reduction off to good start By Ryan Paice Islander Reporter

The early results of Holmes Beach’s new 25-mph citywide speed limit are inconclusive but promising. Holmes Beach Police Chief Bill Tokajer told The Islander April 6 that the change had been implemented without issue and, thus far, had resulted in some improvements over last year. “A lot of people have reached out to us and said, ‘Thank you,’ that they feel safer walking now that cars are going slower,” Tokajer said. “It’s a benefit to public safety … to slow down the cars when we have so many people on bicycles and pedestrians walking.” City commissioners adopted a resolution Feb. 8 establishing the citywide speed limit, primarily impacting three stretches on Gulf, Marina and Palm drives, where the city-controlled speed limit was 35 mph. The measure went into effect midway through February to mixed reception from residents. A comparison of traffic enforcement and accident statistics for March, a busy time for Anna Maria Island as spring breakers flock to island beaches, shows the new speed limit may have benefited roadway safety. Vehicular accidents on city roadways decreased from 18 in March 2021 to eight in March 2022, according to Tokajer. The number of speeding tickets issued year to year for March decreased from 13 to nine. Holmes Beach police issued two more speeding warnings in March 2022 than in March 2021, but three of the four were issued to motorists in an active 15-mph school zone in front of Anna Maria Elementary. However, the stats also show that the speed limit might not impact the most problematic stretches in the city — Manatee Avenue and East Bay Drive. Both Manatee and East Bay are state roads with 35-mph speed limits that Holmes Beach police patrol but the city cannot regulate. Eight of nine speeding tickets issued in March 2022 were to motorists on Manatee Avenue and East

A line of traffic April 7 congests Marina Drive in Holmes Beach, where a citywide 25 mph speed limit was implemented to improve roadway safety. Islander Photo: Ryan Paice

Bay Drive. Only one ticket that month was issued on a road impacted by the citywide speed limit: to a motorist driving 47 mph in a 25-mph zone in the 6300 block of Marina Drive. All the speeding tickets issued in March 2021 were to motorists along Manatee and East Bay. Among the motorists cited for speeding on the roadways in March 2021 and March 2022, the fastest was clocked driving 80 mph, the second-fastest hit 70 mph, and three tied for third-highest speed at 61 mph. “We have a large quantity of people, especially during the late afternoon and evening, that use the entrance into our city as a racetrack,” Tokajer said. “We’re not going to let that slide and you’re not going to get a warning for going that fast.” The Florida Department of Transportation was researching potential changes to speed limits and the use of golf carts and low-speed vehicles along the two roadways that could improve safety, according to Tokajer.

Tokajer said his officers have discretion when issuing speeding tickets but primarily consider two factors: speed and attitude. “From 43 years of police work, I will tell you that, as the officer approaches you, the attitude that you display toward the officer goes a long way toward whether you get a citation or a warning,” he said. “But if you’re going 20-30 mph over the speed limit, chances are you’re going to get a citation … because you’ve broken the law in a big way.” “Going 80 in a 35 will definitely get you a court date,” he added. You can peruse The Islander newspaper archive, dating back to its launch in November 1992, at ufdc. ufl.edu.

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suspect continued from page

of our residents and visitors.” Evans already is facing a prior battery charge. He is facing a first-degree misdemeanor for an alleged Jan. 23 battery that stemmed from an argument outside a Parrish gas station. According to a Manatee County Sheriff’s Office Feb. 7 complaint for an arrest warrant, Bartholow, who was driving a vehicle with Evans as a passenger, accepted money from a person to give a ride home to one of the females at the gas station. Bartholow and Evans allegedly became aggressive after a drink spilled in Bartholow’s vehicle, the report said. Evans allegedly opened the driver-side door of another vehicle and struck the driver’s face multiple times, while Bartholow allegedly “punched and kicked the truck’s exterior.” Sarasota County sheriff’s deputies arrested Evans scam continued from page 1

He paid $1,150 for the stay, money that his credit card company refunded. According to Sutton, the sole property owner of Bamboo Apartments, an April 2-9 stay at the unit should have cost the couple about $2,000. “We were as much a victim as the people that were defrauded,” Sutton said April 8. “Somebody’s using my name. Somebody is claiming to be my partner. Somebody is scamming people out of money and they’re showing up on my doorstep; that’s horrifying.” “I feel terrible for (the Sweeneys) and if I’d had a spot for them, I’d have given it to them,” she added. On the day of the incident, the Sweeneys reached out to the Holmes Beach Police Department’s dispatcher, who informed the couple that they would need to file a complaint with the police department in their hometown of Lewes, Delaware, where the fraud originated. But since receiving a refund, Sweeney has not pur-

March 13 and transported him to the Sarasota County jail, where he was released the next day after posting $500 bail. Bartholow was not charged in the incident. Evans’ arraignment is scheduled for 9 a.m. Monday, April 18, at the Manatee County Judicial Center, 1051 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton. If he does not attend the arraignment he risks additional penalties, such as an additional first-degree misdemeanor charge for failing to appear in court and bond forfeiture, according to state law. People with information about the case or Evans can contact HBPD Detective Josh Fleischer at fleischerj@holmesbeach.org or at 941-708-5800, ext. 270. By Lisa Neff People who wish to report information and remain anonymous can call Manatee County Crime Stoppers, The Islander poll which is offering a $3,000 reward for information that This week’s question leads to Evans’ arrest, at 866-634-TIPS. How do you celebrate Earth Day? A. Spread the message. B. Plant something. C. Volunteer for an event. sued the matter. The fraud is on the credit card comD. Get outside. pany. E. I don’t. According to Holmes Beach Police Chief Bill Last week’s question Tokajer, online scams are difficult cases to solve. The Lyrids meteor shower will peak April 21-22. “What we do is we try to see if we can track down the email address that it was sent from or an IP address. How often do you skygaze? 34%. Often. But to be honest with you, that’s not something that’s 37%. When something big is happening. going to be easy, because you don’t know if this was 18%. Once in a blue moon. even done in this country,” Tokajer said April 6. 11%. Never. Tokajer advises prospective renters to vet rental To answer the poll, go online to islander.org. agreement documentation before making any payments. He told The Islander he was willing to risk some The Sweeneys — visiting Anna Maria Island for their wedding anniversary for a second year in a row embarrassment sharing his story in hopes that doing — salvaged their vacation April 2, securing a six-day so would prevent others from falling for similar stay at Cedar Cove Resort and Cottages and a night at schemes. “Obviously, some people are going to go, ‘Oh SpringHill Suites in Bradenton. “We love it down here. We will come back, and, God, this guy was stupid,’ which I obviously was,” you know, the experience, it turned from a disastrous Sweeney said. “But, you know, if it helps other people Saturday into a really nice vacation,” Sweeney said. out, that’s a good thing.”

Q&A 041322

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brings people

together

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941.778.1515 | 111 South Bay Blvd | Anna Maria Island, FL.

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Pine Ave. in Anna Maria gains city’s historic designation By ryan Paice islander reporter

Anna Maria historic preservation board members Susan Wisniewski, Jack Brennan, and gary McMullen listen to Megan Mclaughlin, second to the left, a planning and preservation expert, April 7 at the office of Boyd realty, which occupies Pine cottage, 409 Pine Ave., a home built in 1931 that could qualify for historic designation. islander Photos: ryan Paice

Anna Maria has a new historic site: Pine Avenue. Historic preservation board members voted 3-0 April 7 to approve a certificate designating the commercial area as a historic site due to its central position in the city’s development and the many historic resources on the avenue. Member Thomas Wagner was absent with excuse. The city adopted a preservation ordinance in July 2017 creating the board to help preserve the municipality’s historic properties. By May 2019, the board was filled and meeting and, in addition to Pine, it has so far approved historic designations for the Anna Maria Island Historical Society Museum and the Island Player’s theater. The city designation is an official recognition of historical significance and may help a property owner acquire grants or tax incentives for preserving or be at least 50 years old and provide cultural, architecPine’s city designation, based on the roadway’s repairing their structures. role in the city’s commercial development, will not The city owns the buildings, which are leased to tural and/or archaeological significance. The state designation also restricts some changes to restrict future changes since its significance is not AMIHS and the Island Players. A historic designation with the state requires a site sites to preserve their historic nature or significance. based on its form. Planning and preservation expert Megan McLaughlin, from Miami-based PlusUrbia Design, led board Megan Mclaughmembers and city planner Chad Minor on a tour and lin, right, a planning discussion of Pine Avenue’s historic resources as part and preservation of the meeting. expert, leads Anna During the tour, McLaughlin highlighted sites, Maria city planner including Roser Memorial Community Church, 512 chad Minor, and Pine Ave., for its historic masonry that is shared with historic prestwo of the buildings in the Historic Green Village, and ervation board the Pine Cottage, 409 Pine Ave., that was built in 1931 members — chair and now houses Boyd Realty. Susan Wisniewski, Other properties discussed were the Island Players Jack Brennan (not building, the AMIHS museum, a prefabricated Sears pictured) and gary home and several private buildings built 1910-50. McMullen — on a Pine’s historic designation allows the city to tour and discuspursue additional funding for improvements, such as sion April 7 on Pine those included in the city’s plans to “reimagine” the Avenue. roadway. Improvements on Pine include installing pervious meandering sidewalks, enhancing and adding crosswalks, adding bicycle lanes and a truck turnaround at the east end. A sentencing hearing now awaits a defendant in had been identified as the driver of the vehicle. While Pine is the latest addition to the city’s hisa crash that resulted in the death of a visitor to Anna Shannon had pleaded not guilty but changed her toric sites, the board hopes private property owners Maria Island last year. plea the morning before her trial was to begin in Bra- with eligible structures add to that number. Sarasota-based attorney Ronald Filipkowski filed denton. Minor suggested city staff and the board braina “no contest” plea April 11 on behalf of his client, With the no contest plea, the court will schedule storm ways to notify owners of property identified by Holmes Beach resident Cierra Shannon, 27, who was a sentencing hearing, according to Donna Rhodes, PlusUrbia’s survey, which is projected to be completed facing a first-degree felony charge for leaving the scene public information officer for the 12th Judicial Circuit around May, as eligible for historic designation so they of a Feb. 10, 2021, deadly hit-and-run crash. Court. TurN To pINe aVe., NeXT PAge The crash resulted in the death of 83-year-old If convicted, a first-degree felony charge carries a Madelyn Dakin, a Michigan resident vacationing in minimum mandatory prison sentence of four years. Holmes Beach with her husband. Dakin was hit while Shannon had been found guilty of driving under crossing Gulf Drive around the 2700 block when she the influence in an unrelated 2015 case, according to was struck by a vehicle. Manatee County court records. — ryan Paice Shannon turned herself in Feb. 11, 2021, after she

HB resident pleads ‘no contest’ in fatal hit-and-run

2022 Elections

Meetings

Key 2022 election dates

compiled by lisa Neff, calendar@islander.org

Anna Maria City April 14, 2 p.m., commission. April 19 a.m., special magistrate. April 28, 6 p.m., commission. Anna Maria City Hall, 10005 Gulf Drive, 941708-6130, cityofannamaria.com.

West Manatee Fire Rescue April 19, 6 p.m., commission. WMFR administration building, 701 63rd St. W., Bradenton, 941-761-1555, wmfr.org.

Bradenton Beach April 20, 1 p.m., charter review. April 21, noon, commission. Bradenton Beach City Hall, 107 Gulf Drive N., 941-778-1005, cityofbradentonbeach.com.

Manatee County April 19, 9 a.m., commission. April 21, 1:30 p.m., commission (land use). April 26, 9 a.m., commission. County administration building, 1112 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton, 941-748-4501, mymanatee. org.

Holmes Beach April 20, 10 a.m., clean water. April 26, 10 a.m., code. April 26, 5 p.m., commission. April 28, 11:30 a.m., police pension. Holmes Beach City Hall, 5801 Marina Drive, 941-708-5800, holmesbeachﬂ.org.

Also of interest April 15, Good Friday, most government offices are closed. April 18, 9 a.m., Manatee County Tourist Development Council, county administration building. Please, send meeting notices to calendar@ islander.org and news@islander.org.

Candidate qualifying in Anna Maria opens at noon Monday, June 6, and continues through noon, Friday, June 17. The qualifying period in Holmes Beach and Bradenton Beach is one week — noon Monday, June 22, through noon Friday, June 17. In Anna Maria, the mayor’s office and two commission seats are up for election. In Bradenton Beach, two commission seats are up for election. In Holmes Beach, the mayor’s office and two commission seats are up for election. For more information, go online to the Manatee County Supervisor of Elections office at votemanatee. gov. The deadline to register to vote in the 2022 primary will be Monday, July 25, and the deadline to request a mail ballot will be Saturday, Aug. 13. The primary will be Tuesday, Aug. 23. The deadline to register to vote for the general election will be Monday, Oct. 11, and the deadline to request a mail ballot will be Saturday, Oct. 29. The general election will be Tuesday, Nov. 8. — lisa Neff

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HB special magistrate set to address condemned property By ryan Paice islander reporter

One Holmes Beach property owner’s inaction in solving issues at a condemned building might see action at a city hearing. JT Thomas, the city’s code enforcement supervisor, told The Islander April 8 that the case dealing with a condemned building at 2809 Ave. E will go before a special magistrate after developer Sean Kaleta, the property owner, failed to address several code violations within 10 days of the building’s closure. City staff condemned the building March 18 after an anonymous complaint about the property led to an inspection that revealed a variety of structural hazards. Issues include a partially collapsed balcony held up by two wooden boards, dilapidated staircases at both the front and back of the building, missing wall panels and a deteriorating central structural beam. The city gave Kaleta until March 28 to provide a plan to mitigate four code violations at the property. Thomas previously said that, based on early communications, Kaleta had been expected to apply for a demolition permit. However, Kaleta had not applied for a demolition permit nor communicated plans for the building with the city as of April 8, according to Thomas. “We haven’t had any permits pulled, so we’re going on to the next level, which is making this property go to a magistrate to get a finding of fact on how to secure this unit,” Thomas said. Building official Neal Schwartz told The Islander April 8 that if the property owner submitted plans to repair or demo the structure before the hearing, then the item may not make it to the agenda. If Kaleta does not submit plans before the hearing, the city’s special magistrate can issue an order compelling action which, if not followed, could result in fines from the city. The city’s next special magistrate hearing will be at 10 a.m. Tuesday, April 26, at city hall, 5801 Marina Drive. The hearing not be available on Zoom, but will be open to the public. pINe aVe. coNTiNueD froM PAge 4

also could seek funding to preserve and maintain their properties. He said city staff was in the process of remodeling the city’s website and a webpage would be added to the revamped site to ease the process of applying for historic designation. Minor added that the city received its first application for historic designation from a private property — 302 Gulf Blvd. — which would go before the board for review in the future. The board’s next meeting will be at 10 a.m. Tuesday, April 26, at city hall, 10005 Gulf Drive. The meeting will be open to the public. Directions to attend via Zoom can be found at cityofannamaria.com.

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

The condemned multifamily property at 2809 Ave. e, Holmes Beach, remains uninhabitable April 8, 22 days after city staff evicted the tenants and notified the owner of code violations. islander Photo: ryan Paice

Other closed buildings… Last year, the city took similar action with two other properties: a three-story single-family home at 4106 Sixth Ave. and a fourplex at 3400 Sixth Ave. At 4106 Sixth Ave., city staff found last June that a balcony had collapsed while inspecting a nearby vacation rental. The city nearly declared the building unsafe for human occupancy, but the owner, who occupied the unit, agreed to vacate the property until plans could be submitted. The building was reopened last September after the owner applied for permits that detailed plans for keeping the balcony locked off and secured until work

was finished. Work on the balcony concluded and met city code as of April 8, according to Schwartz. City staff last July also condemned a fourplex at 3400 Sixth Ave., due to an AC repair worker’s complaint that alerted to cracks outside two of the property’s second-floor wood and stucco balconies. Issues also were found with deteriorating stairs and decking. The city declared it unsafe for human occupancy and evacuated the building, which remains closed as of April 8, according to Schwartz. Schwartz said the property owner was engineering plans to move forward with permits and repairs.

Contractors reach settlement in workplace death By robert Anderson islander reporter

The federal government fined two local companies for a fall that resulted in one worker’s death and a second injured worker. Two men doing framing work at a residential construction project in Bradenton Beach June 23, 2021, had no warning when the platform and scaffolding supporting them failed, causing both to fall about 25 feet to the ground. Head trauma killed a 49-year-old carpenter and crew leader, who died on the scene. The second worker, a 40-year-old carpenter, suffered fractures to his leg, knee, ribs and nose and required treatment at a local hospital. The U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Health and Safety division found their employer, Alejandro Carpentry Inc., “failed to have a competent person train the workers to recognize fall hazards.” OSHA also cited the Bradenton Beach company for not hiring a registered professional engineer to design the scaffolding system and failing to properly anchor or brace the outrigger’s beams. In addition, OSHA cited the company for failing

to report a work-related death to the agency within eight hours, as the law requires. In an original finding from OSHA, Alejandro Carpentry faced $41,739 in punitive fines. The investigation also found the project’s prime contractor, Lighthouse Property Innovations LLC of Holmes Beach, did not have a competent person conduct frequent and regular inspections of the job site or materials and equipment to identify and mitigate safety and health hazards. The violations led OSHA to propose $4,096 in penalties for Lighthouse. In response to OSHA’s findings, Alejandro Carpentry requested an informal conference with the area director Dec. 8, 2021, resulting in a reduced fine — from $41,739 to $20,899, according to Erika Ruthman of the U.S. Department of Labor. Alejandro Carpentry must pay the fine under an established 12-months payment plan. Lighthouse corrected the hazardous condition and paid the full $4,096 penalty. The inspection report was closed on Feb. 17. According to the OSHA website, falls are the leading cause of death in construction.

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Opinion

Our

’Tis the season

Yes. In this little slice of paradise we call Anna Maria Island, there are many seasons. We used to have a distinct October-March tourist season but that’s been broadened by the influx of weekly rentals. Mostly gone are the six-month flocks from northern states and Canada that we lovingly called snowbirds. And even with the snowbirds, as Easter arrived some years late into April, season extended with the spring holiday and homes and accommodations were filled to the brim. Now, it seems, we’re filled to the brim most every week in April, regardless of holidays. Tourism is on the rise and the character of AMI is evolving and changing the habits for some of us who persevere against its challenges. So be it. Or so I say. I’m happy to see people enjoying the sun, beach, waterways and life on AMI. I eagerly await the Kiwanis Club’s 57th Easter sunrise service on the beach as each year, all but 2020 due to the pandemic, thousands of people gather to hear the “good word” from the league of pastors from the island churches. Easter is followed by more seasons. We eagerly await sea turtle nesting season, which — coincidental or not — usually starts within days of Mother’s Day. It’s reassuring to know, no matter what else may be happening in our world, the lumbering loggerheads and occasional green sea turtles will find their way to our shore to deposit their clutches of eggs in nests to survive and hatch on their own. It’s amazing to me that these female sea turtles only ever leave the comfort of the Gulf of Mexico to nest and, of course, the males never come ashore. But the instinct is there for them to risk everything to deposit their clutch, some 100 or so eggs, that then hatch on their own and scramble to the water to begin — against tremendous odds — their life cycle. Next up, we will see the beginning of another hurricane season — not something we embrace. And in view of so many extreme weather events — tornadoes, fires, floods, freezing temperatures in the south and heat in the north — well, we have to stay alert for Thanks for the boost I am writing to publicly thank two officers from whatever Mother Nature throws at us. And then, we’ll have election season in Novem- the Bradenton Beach Police Department for helping me March 26 with a dead car battery. ber. Officers Eric Hill and John Tsakiri were so kind And, not to disappoint, the oligarch of Bradenton Beach is positioning to override the voters’ past wishes and professional, going the extra mile to help me. Thanks again! — to restructure wards and end term limits. Angie Blunt, Perico Island The end goal? Retention and control.

Your

— Bonner Joy, news@islander.org

APRIL 13, 2022 • Vol. 30, No. 25 Publisher, Co-editor Bonner Joy, news@islander.org ▼ Editorial editor lisa Neff, lisa@islander.org robert Anderson, robert@islander.org Joe Bird, editorial cartoonist Kevin cassidy, kevin@islander.org Jack elka, jack@jackelka.com Kane Kaiman, kane@islander.org Brook Morrison, brook@islander.org ryan Paice, ryan@islander.org ▼ Contributors Karen riley-love Samara Paice capt. Danny Stasny, fish@islander.org Nicole Quigley ▼ Advertising Director Toni lyon, toni@islander.org ▼ Webmaster Wayne Ansell ▼ Office Manager, lisa Williams info@, accounting@, classifieds@, subscriptions@islander.org ▼ Distribution urbane Bouchet ross roberts Judy loden Wasco (All others: news@islander.org) ▼

Single copies free. Quantities of five or more: 25 cents each. ©1992-2022 • Editorial, sales and production ofﬁces: 315 58th St., Suite J, Holmes Beach fl 34217 WeBSiTe: islander.org Text or call: 941-778-7978

Opinion

‘Big’ issue

In response to the multifamily house being considered on Elm in Anna Maria: I’m extremely concerned about nonconsideration of conservation efforts that go on constantly on this precious island. Please, people speak up. It won’t take long to lose your island to the dollar. Robert Lynne, Lake Wales

Many thanks

The Friends of the Island Library wish to thank the hundreds of people whose contributions made our 40th anniversary events and celebration so successful, including our members, volunteers and Island Branch Library patrons. In addition, we thank the staff of the library who partnered with the Friends in our activities. We also wish to thank our business and organization partners, including the Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce, Roser Memorial Community Church, Anna Maria Historical Society, Ginny’s & Jane E’s, Pizza Social, Hometown Desserts, Blue Marlin, Bob Bolus, Bolus Truck Parts & Towing Services and Creative Library Concepts. We also appreciate officials from Manatee County and the island, including Holmes Beach Mayor Judy Titsworth, County Commissioners Kevin Van Ostenbridge and Carol Whitmore and Holmes Beach Police Chief Bill Tokajer, who joined us at our March 23

Skimming online …

Web (register for free news alerts) islander.org Facebook @islandernewspaper Twitter @ami_islander Instagram @theislanderami Pinterest @islandernewspaper E-edition For $36 a year, e-edition subscribers have access to the weekly e-edition with page-by-page views of all the news and advertisements. To subscribe online, visit islander.org. For other subscriber services, call our newspaper office at 941-778-7978.

Have your say

The Islander accepts letters of up to 250 words. Please, email news@islander.org. celebration. And lastly, we thank this newspaper for its assistance in promoting the value of the Island Branch of the Manatee Public Library System. It takes a village of “friends” to support the Island Branch of the Manatee County Public Library System. If you are a member of the Friends of the Island Library, thank you. If not, please consider becoming one. Please, visit our website www.friendsoftheislandlibrary.org for more information. Jan Riggs, Friends of the Island Library president

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10&20 years ago

Docking on the ‘beach’

From the April 10, 2002, issue

The ferry landing at Cortez Beach — southern Bradenton Beach — for the “Cortez to Anna Maria Ferry.” The photo is dated February 1916.

Landing at the memorial “conquistadors” land at Bradenton’s De Soto National Memorial on the Manatee river on easter weekend, a local tradition that continues this month. The photo is dated April 1979. islander Photos: Manatee county Public library System

Islander archive 24/7 The Islander is included in the University of Florida George A. Smathers Libraries. Our collection of newspapers,

beginning with the first edition in 1992, is available 24/7. Look online for The Islander at the UofF Florida newspaper collection at ufdc.ufl.edu.

We’d love to mail you the news!

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

• Bradenton Beach residents packed city hall to express opinions on a proposed six-month moratorium on right-of-way vacations, land-development code changes and comp plan amendments. • AMI small business and restaurant owners complained of a low turnout of visitors to the island on Easter after the county public safety office turned on portable signs on Cortez Road and the Palma Sola Causeway around 1:30 p.m. that said “Beaches closed.” Dee Percifield of Cafe on the Beach at the Manatee Public Beach said it was the worst Easter ever for her business. • Beach renourishment in Holmes Beach began moving northward from the Martinique condominiums in the 5200 block of Gulf Drive. Manatee County natural resources director Charlie Hunsicker said crews were putting down between 300-700 feet of sand daily in Holmes Beach, and the only complaints were about the machinery noise at night.

From the April 11, 2012, issue

• Scientists at Colorado State University released their annual predictions for the number of tropical storms in the Atlantic, Caribbean and Gulf of Mexico and they were expecting a below average hurricane season. • Investigators from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection were working on finalizing consequences for Anna Maria after determining the city violated the terms of its Bimini Bay-Key Royale Canal dredging permit. • Bradenton Beach commissioners authorized their city attorney to send out a request for proposal for a cellular communications tower. — lisa Neff

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Page 8 THE ISLANDER | islander.org April 13, 2022 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Small island big show

Home sweet housing units tracked om AMI

A camera crew films “The American Dream” April 4 on Anna Maria Island. The national television show highlights U.S. real estate and lifestyles, with the island episodes set to appear on Apple TV and ABC services. As of The Islander’s press time, streaming dates were not announced. For more information, go online to americandreamnetwork.tv.

By Lisa Neff Islander Editor

Manatee County residents Ashley Matelau, left, Christy Travis Hey and Nikki Hunt laugh April 4 while filming “The American Dream” on Oak Avenue in Anna Maria. Hey, who lives in Bradenton and has a family home on the island, was cast as host for several episodes featuring Anna Maria Island. Islander Photos: Brook Morrison

BB CRA addresses mixed bag of issues By Robert Anderson Islander Reporter

Bradenton Beach’s community redevelopment agency members heard updates April 6 on a couple of projects. The meeting began with a discussion about plantings at Bradenton Beach’s newest park, City Park, ahead of a National Arbor Day celebration, which is set for Friday, April 29. Bradenton Beach ScenicWAVES Chair Ingrid McClellan was on deck to answer questions and explain a design plan for the park, located across Gulf Drive from city hall. The proposal includes changes to the number of trees to be used, as well as concerns about irrigation for the project. To assist the enhancements, Ed Chiles, owner of the neighboring Beach House Restaurant and a member of the CRA, offered to help with the water. “This is a great project,” Chiles said. He continued, “You’re taking an incredibly valuable piece of property, making it accessible to people and you’re tuning it up and that’s wonderful because it doesn’t look that great right now.” The Arbor Day celebration will mark 11 years of Bradenton Beach’s participation in the Tree City USA program, which provides communities with a four-step framework to maintain and grow their tree canopy. In other matters, Josh LaRose, owner of the Easy Parking shuttle service, which began serving the CRA in November 2020, provided a monthly update. March saw the shuttle service move about 5,632 passengers. Concerns were raised by members of the CRA that only 169 passengers rode from the Coquina Beach South parking lot to the Bridge Street area. Traffic and the unfinished state of the Coquina parking project were cited as stumbling blocks to the program’s success. “Some of the major feedback that I’ve gotten from my drivers is the traffic.” LaRose said. “It gets to a point where all the parking is filled down there. There are a few hours in the day when there is no parking in the area — in either Bridge Street or Coquina.” LaRose also updated the CRA about their previous concerns over drivers deviating from set routes. He said shuttles now are staying within the CRA boundaries and provided GPS reports showing that no

The owner of Easy Park shuttle service, Josh LaRose, discusses data related to the CRA-funded shuttle service between Coquina Beach and the CRA district. Islander Photo: Robert Anderson

shuttle trams went north of Cortez Road West. The CRA’s mission is to provide financial assistance and guide public projects in the district, which is bordered by Gulf Drive and Sarasota Bay on the west and east, Fifth Street South on the south and Cortez Road on the north. The next CRA meeting will be Wednesday, May 4, at city hall, 107 Gulf Drive N. About the CRA The Bradenton Beach Community Redevelopment Agency funds capital improvement projects to promote restoration, growth and tourism for the district, which is bordered by Cortez Road, Sarasota Bay, Fifth Street South and the Gulf of Mexico. The CRA funds the projects with incremental tax revenue collected by Manatee County since 1992, when the area was declared blighted. The agency includes the mayor, city commissioners and two appointed members, restaurateur Ed Chiles and resident David Bell.

The new American Community Survey takes stock of Anna Maria Island’s housing stock and household estimates. And some numbers might raise eyebrows, like the estimated “zero” solar-powered housing units in Anna Maria and the estimated 13 units in that city “lacking complete plumbing facilities.” The federal survey from the U.S. Census Bureau released this spring for 2016-20 boosts the understanding of social and economic characteristics in a community with its five-year estimates. The bureau says: “The ACS is the nation’s leading source of large- and small-area socioeconomic and demographic statistics for all levels of geography” providing “public officials, community leaders, business owners, researchers and others with detailed information helping them to plan for the future.” The Islander is reviewing the ACS data this spring, ahead of the release of more details from the 2020 decennial census. A look at some ACS numbers for AMI: Anna Maria has 1,679 housing units, with 607 of them occupied by households. Bradenton Beach has 1,822 housing units, with 495 of them occupied by households. Holmes Beach has 4,810 housing units, with 2,380 of them occupied by households. In other words, a majority of housing units on the island are not considered “occupied housing units” in the survey, including: • 577 units owned for “seasonal, recreational or occasional” use in Anna Maria, 932 such units in Bradenton Beach and 1,302 in Holmes Beach. • 365 “for rent” units in Anna Maria, 264 in Bradenton Beach and 665 in Holmes Beach. • Five “sold but not occupied” properties in Anna Maria, eight in Bradenton Beach and 36 in Holmes Beach. Of Anna Maria’s 607 households, the average household size is 1.79 people. Of Bradenton Beach’s 495 households, the average household size is 1.82 people. Of Holmes Beach’s 2,380 households, the average household size is 1.79 people. About 35.4% of those in owner-occupied units in Holmes Beach settled in between 2015 and 2018 and just 7.3% moved in before 1990. About 7.3% of those in occupied housing units in Bradenton Beach arrived before 1990. The largest percentage of arrivals in housing units — 29.5% — settled in Bradenton Beach between 2000 and 2009. In Anna Maria’s occupied housing units, 4.4% arrived since 2019, 12.5% between 2015 and 2018; 23.9% between 2010 and 2014; 21.1% between 2000 and 2009; 25.4% between 1990 and 1999 and 12.7% before 1990. A majority of households on AMI include at least one person 60 or older: 87.8% in Anna Maria, 76.2% in Bradenton Beach; 75% in Holmes Beach. A majority of households on AMI also live in single-family detached homes — the bulk of those homes with 4-7 rooms, including 2-3 bedrooms. However, in Anna Maria, there are 68 housing units with nine or more rooms. There are 42 such properties in Bradenton Beach and 343 in Holmes Beach. In Anna Maria, 319 of the housing units were built in 1960-69, 319 in 1970-79, 254 in 1950-1959. Thirtytwo were built 1940-49 and 79 built prior to 1940. In Bradenton Beach, there are 66 units built before 1940. The largest group of housing units — 451 — date to 1980-89 and the second largest group — 306 — date to 1970-79. In Holmes Beach, the survey estimates 32 units built prior to 1940 and the largest number of units — 1,517 — date to 1970-79. More than 130 housing units were built in Holmes Beach since 2014. A majority of housing units on the island use electricity for heating fuel and a majority are home to one motor vehicle, though about 38.6% in Anna Maria, 33.7% in Bradenton Beach and 29.2% in Holmes Beach are two-vehicle households.

APril 13, 2022 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 9 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

BB commission establishes charter review committee By robert Anderson islander reporter

Bradenton Beach city commissioners elected April 7 to establish a committee to possibly propose changes to the city charter. The municipal charter is akin to the Constitution for the United States. The commission voted to establish the committee following a discussion led by city attorney Ricinda Perry. “Every five years, the city has to go through a charter review process,” Perry said. “We are concluding our chappie fourth year now and moving toward our fifth year.” But the fifth year — 2023 — would be an off-year for federal and state elections, which typically draws fewer voters. Perry said, “The idea the city Perry has brought forward in the past is we would prefer our charter amendments to go out when there’s a larger voter turnout. It produces a better result for the community itself to be involved in the government that we have.” The November general election is a midterm election, with local, county, state and federal contests likely on the ballot. If Bradenton Beach is to propose any charter changes on the 2022 ballot, the charter review committee needs to be assembled and get to work, according to Perry. “We are looking at convening the committee this month, completing all of our work this month, producing recommendations to the commission in the month of May and finalizing,” Perry said. She named five people who would serve on the committee: Ann Leister, former Commissioner Ed Straight, Jim Hassett, Dan DeBaun and Tom Little.

Perry included Debra Cox as an alternate. Vice Mayor Jan Vosburgh offered to serve as commission liaison to the committee, a post she’s held in the past. Perry told commissioners she’d like to work with the committee on better organizing the city’s wards and said she reached out to the supervisor of elections office in regards to redistricting possibilities. Perry also said she wanted to address term limits with the committee. Currently, elected officials cannot hold the same elected office for more than three con-

secutive terms or portions thereof. Anna Maria and Holmes beach do not have term limits. Mayor John Chappie made motions to create and appoint the committee and commissioners unanimously approved both motions. The first charter review committee meeting was set for 1 p.m. Wednesday, April 20, at city hall, 107 Gulf Drive. The next commission meeting will be at noon, Thursday, April 26.

Scenic WAVES committee signals interest in bike paths By robert Anderson islander reporter

They’re finding their way to better biking in Bradenton Beach. The Bradenton Beach ScenicWAVES Advisory Committee met April 6 at city hall and devoted some time to addressing safe bicycling in the scenic highway corridor. The scenic highway offers bike lanes on both sides of Gulf Drive, from Fifth Street South to the Longboat Pass Bridge. Also, an 8-foot wide trail is available for leisure cyclists at Coquina Beach and extending north along Cortez Beach to Fifth Street South. Cyclists can merge with vehicular traffic and continue north on Gulf Drive through the Bridge Street circle until a bicycle lane is again provided at Second Street North. But a safer bike route veers off Gulf Drive at Fifth Street South and the committee is considering signage to encourage bicyclists to turn off Gulf Drive, east down Fifth Street South and then north along Bay Drive South. The committee addressed other challenges on the scenic highway bike route, including: • Hazards along Gulf Drive are primarily on the southbound side, where stormwater periodically covers the bike lane and even the traffic lane near Cortez

Beach. • Cars entering and exiting some parking areas cause the wearing of paint defining the bike lane and tires kick sand and debris from the parking onto the asphalt. The committee took no action on the path during the April 6 meeting and is expected to take up the issue at its next meeting. The committee will meet next at 2 p.m. Wednesday, May 4, at city hall, 107 Gulf Drive N. About Scenic WAVES The ScenicWAVES Partnership Committee is a citizen advisory committee that represents the Bradenton Beach Scenic Highway Corridor Management Entity for the Florida Department of Transportation Designated Scenic Highway Program and the entity for the Waterfronts Florida Partnership Program. ScenicWAVES also serves as the tree and landscaping committee to promote awareness of the citywide tree canopy and landscaping education programs.

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Island happenings

Page 10 THE ISLANDER | islander.org APril 13, 2022 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

De Soto Heritage Festival parades planned

compiled by lisa Neff, calendar@islander.org.

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT ONGOING ON AMI Artists’ Guild of Anna Maria Island “Art Unites Us” online exhibit through April 30, amiartistsguildgallery.com. Information: 941-7786694. Throughout April, painter Pat O’Neill’s “Art from the Heart” exhibit, Island Gallery West, 5368 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: islandgallerywest.com, 941-778-6648. AHEAD OFF AMI April 23, Center of Anna Maria Island’s Cajun Crawﬁsh Boil, Anna Maria. ONGOING OFF AMI Into June, “Beyond Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience,” Starry Night Pavilion at University Town Center, 195 University Town Center Drive, Sarasota. Fee applies. Information: vangoghsarasota. com. Through April 29, Fridays, 6-8 p.m., Music in the Park, Rossi Park Pavilion on the Riverwalk, downtown Bradenton. Information: 941-301-8445. Through Aug. 28, “Metadata: Rethinking Photography in the 21st Century,” The Ringling, 5401 Bay Shore Road, Sarasota. Fee applies. Information: 941-360-7390. 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. Saturdays through May 28, 9 a.m.-2 p.m., Bradenton Farmers Market, Main Street, downtown Bradenton. Information: realizebradenton.com, 941-301-8445. Second and fourth Saturdays, 2-4 p.m., Music on the Porch jam session, presented by the Florida Maritime Museum and Cortez Cultural Center, outdoors, 4415 119th St. W., Cortez. Information: ﬂoridamaritimemuseum.org, fmminfo@manateeclerk.com. AHEAD OFF AMI May 20, Anna Maria Island Privateers’ Second Chance Prom, Palmetto.

Manatee County’s annual spring celebration, the De Soto Heritage Festival, will feature two parades. The De Soto Children’s Parade will be Friday, April 15, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. at Sutton Park, 1036 Sixth St. W., Palmetto. The De Soto Grande Parade will be at 7 p.m. Saturday, April 30, in Bradenton. An estimated 200,000 people line Manatee Avenue to watch more than 150 entries parade past. The parade will begin at Manatee High School, turn west on Ninth Avenue West, turn north on 39th Street West, turn east on Manatee Avenue and finish in downtown Bradenton. The Anna Maria Island Privateers plan to partici‘Landing’ reenactment pate in both events. The De Soto National Memorial will hold the 81st For more details about the events, including the annual De Soto landing event 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Satur- parade route, go online to desotohq.com or call 941day, April 16. The event includes a landing reenact- 747-1998.

ment of Hernando de Soto’s arrival to florida, talks, demonstrations and activities. for more information, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: mymanatee.org/library, 941-778-6341. call the De Soto National Memorial at 941-792Monday, April 18 0458. The memorial is at 8300 De Soto Memorial 11:30 a.m. — Anna Maria Island and West Manatee Democratic Highway, Bradenton. islander courtesy Photo Club meeting and bring-your-own lunch, The Doctor’s Garden, 5312 Holmes Blvd., Holmes Beach. Information: bbeckwith02@gmail. De Soto Memorial Highway, Bradenton. Information: 941-792-0458, com. 105. ONGOING ON AMI Tuesday, April 19

10 a.m.— Family storytime, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Thursdays, 6 p.m., bingo night, Annie Silver Community Center, Holmes Beach. Information: mymanatee.org/library, 941-778- 103 23rd St N., Bradenton Beach. Information: 941-757-6029. 6341. Fridays, 11:30 a.m., Mahjong Club, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: mymanatee.org/library, 941-778AHEAD ON AMI 6341. May 28, Snooks Adams Kids Day, TBD. Saturdays, 8:30 a.m., Kiwanis Club of Anna Maria Island meetJuly 4, Anna Maria Island Privateers Independence Day ing, Bradenton Beach City Hall, 107 Gulf Drive N., Bradenton Beach. Parade. Information: 941-778-1383. Oct. 15, Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce’s Bayfest, Tuesdays through May 10, 8:30 a.m.-2 p.m., Farmers Market Anna Maria. in the Park, City Pier Park, Pine Avenue and Bay Boulevard, Anna Maria. Information: 941-708-6130. OFF AMI Tuesdays, 11:30 a.m., Mahjong Club, Island Library, 5701 KIDS & FAMILY Friday, April 15 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: mymanatee.org/library, 10 a.m. — De Soto Heritage Festival Children’s Parade, Sutton 941-778-6341. ON AMI Park, 1036 Sixth St. W., Palmetto. Information: 941-747-1998 Tuesdays, noon, duplicate bridge, Episcopal Church of the Thursday, April 14 Annunciation, 4408 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. Fee applies. InforONGOING OFF AMI 10 a.m. — Decoupaged eggs, Island Library, 5701 Marina mation: 703-582-7755. Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: mymanatee.org/library, 941Through Aug. 7, “Sharks: On Assignment with Brian Skerry” 778-6341. AHEAD ON AMI exhibit, Mote Marine Aquarium, 1600 Ken Thompson Parkway, City Saturday, April 16 Island, Sarasota. Fee applies. Information: 941-388-4441. May 15, Anna Maria Island Privateers Shiprek Poker Run. 9 a.m. — Sandbar Easter egg hunt and bonnet contest, SandMay 30, Anna Maria Memorial Day Symphony Salute, Anna AHEAD OFF AMI bar Restaurant, 100 Spring Ave., Anna Maria. Information: 941-778Maria. 0444. April 30, De Soto Heritage Festival Grand Parade, BradenJuly 23, Anna Maria Island Privateers Christmas in July at the 10 a.m. — De Soto Landing, De Soto National Memorial, 8300 ton. Drift-In, Bradenton Beach.

CLUBS & COMMUNITY ON AMI Wednesday, April 13 6:30 p.m. — Island Time Book Club, Island Library, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: mymanatee.org/library, 941-778-6341. Thursday, April 14 2 p.m. — Sunshine Stitchers Knit and Crochet, Island Library,

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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.

OUTDOORS & SPORTS ONGOING ON AMI AMI Dragon Boat Team—Paddlers from Paradise practices and

Island happenings

APril 13, 2022 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 11 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Hippity hop to the beach children race to collect eggs from the sand at the Sandbar restaurant. The restaurant will hold its traditional easter egg hunt at 9:30 a.m. Saturday, April 16. The event also will include an easter bonnet contest — for the young and older. islander file Photo: lisa Neff

Sandbar Restaurant’s Easter egg hunt set for April 16 The Sandbar Restaurant will celebrate Easter weekend with an egg hunt and bonnet contest on the beach. The bring-your-own basket egg hunt for children will begin at 9:30 a.m., following refreshments at 9 a.m. The restaurant also will host children’s crafts and

other activities, as well as an Easter bonnet contest at 10:15 a.m. Chuck Caudill will provide musical entertainment. The Sandbar Restaurant is at 100 Spring Ave., Anna Maria. The restaurant phone number is 941-778-0444.

meetups, various times and locations. Information: 941-462-2626, the Bradenton Marauders, Bradenton. mrbradway@gmail.com.

GOOD TO KNOW

AHEAD ON AMI April 29, Keep Manatee Beautiful/Anna Maria Island Moose Lodge Arbor Day Coastal Cleanup, Bradenton Beach. OFF AMI Saturday, April 16 9 a.m. — Sarasota Bay Estuary Program Flamingo Cay Cleanup, kayak and reservations required. Information: 941-9558055. AHEAD OFF AMI April 23, Keep Manatee Beautiful Earth Day celebration, Bradenton. April 30, Sarasota Bay Estuary Program 2022 Seagrass Survey, Sarasota. May 7, Margaritaville Night with the Bradenton Marauders, Bradenton. May 13, Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce Golf Tournament, Bradenton. July 15, Anna Maria Island Privateers scholarship night with

KEEP THE DATES Sunday, April 17, Easter. Monday, April 18, Tax Day. Friday, April 22, Earth Day. Saturday, April 23, Talk Like Shakespeare Day. Friday, April 29, National Arbor Day. Sunday, May 1, May Day. Thursday, May 5, Cinco de Mayo. Sunday, May 8, Mother’s Day. Friday, May 20, Bike to Work Day. Monday, May 30, Memorial Day. Wednesday, June 1, Atlantic hurricane season begins. Sunday, June 5, National Doughnut Day. Tuesday, June 14, Flag Day. Thursday, June 16, Bloomsday. Sunday, June 19, Father’s Day. Sunday, June 19, Juneteenth. Monday, July 4, Independence Day. Send calendar listings to calendar@islander.org.

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Garden club set to meet

Anna Maria Island Garden Club members will gather at 11:30 a.m. Wednesday, April 20, for a general meeting. The gathering is the last regularly scheduled meeting on the club’s 2021-22 calendar. The group will meet at Roser Memorial Community Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. For more information about the garden club, call Gerry Mills at 941-920-5929.

Democratic club to gather in the ‘Garden’

The Anna Maria Island and West Manatee Democratic Club will meet at 11:30 a.m. Monday, April 18, at the Doctor’s Garden, 5312 Holmes Blvd., Holmes Beach. The program will include a talk by Tracy Pratt, chair of the Manatee County Democratic Party, about engaging voters not affiliated with a political party. Attendees can bring their lunch or order a takeout meal nearby. For more information, contact Barbara Beckwith at bbeckwith02@gmail.com.

Center hosts crawfish boil

The Center of Anna Maria Island will be turning up the heat Saturday, April 23. The center is hosting a Cajun Crawfish Boil beginning at 5 p.m. The menu includes crawfish, gumbo, red beans and rice, bread pudding and beverages. Tickets are $25 for adults, $5 for children. The center is at 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria. For more information, go online to centerami. org or call the center at 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria.

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Page 12 THE ISLANDER | islander.org APril 13, 2022 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Moose-ing around with kids, bunnies Amber Deherrera and Maeve Deherrera, 3, pose at the April 9 Moose lodge easter Party.

Members of the Women of the Moose — Sam Watters, left, the easter Bunny aka cheryl clark and senior regent Joy Shames — pause for a photo during the merriment at the April 9 Moose lodge easter Party. Women of the Moose have hosted events for major holidays since the founding of the island Moose lodge in 1968. islander Photos: robert Anderson Patty Taake poses with Mia Taake, 6, and Ava czajkowski, 3, following the Moose lodge easter egg hunt sponsored by the Women of the Moose.

Payton Williams, 6, pauses for a wave and a smile while on a highly focused egg salvage operation.

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AME Calendar

Ready for B.I.N.G.O! lenie Nebra and her mother, Alexandra, enjoy bingo night April 7 at the center of Anna Maria island. A bingo card cost $1. Snacks and drinks were available for a donation. Winners also received gift certificates to local restaurants and businesses. islander Photos: Brook Morrison

rium.

• Friday, April 15, Good Friday, no school. • Tuesday, April 19, 6:30 p.m., ﬁrst-grade play, audito-

• Wednesday, April 20, early release. • Thursday, April 21, Mote Marine Laboratory assembly. • Friday, April 22, fifth-grade class trip. • May 2-6, staff appreciation week. • May 3-4, fourth- and fifth-grade FSA reading assessment. • May 10-11, fourth- and fifth-grade FSA math assessment. • Saturday, May 14, AME PTO Spring Golf Tournament. • Tuesday, May 17, 6:30 p.m., second-grade play, auditorium. • May 17-18, fifth-grade FSA science assessment. • Friday, May 20, field day. • Tuesday, May 24, fifth-grade luncheon. • Wednesday, May 25, fifth-grade awards ceremony. • May 24-26, early release. • Thursday, May 26, last day of school for students. • Friday, May 27, last day of school for teachers. Anna Maria Elementary is at 4700 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. For more information, call the school at 941-708-5525.

Ben Morrison of New orleans holds up his winning bingo card April 7, during the community game night at the center of Anna Maria island, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria. “So happy i won a dolphin tour for two,” said Morrison. The April event was the last bingo night on the 2022 calendar at the center.

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Gathering By lisa Neff

Island churches, Kiwanis set Easter worship schedules

Anna Maria Island will observe Easter Sunday with worship services from sunrise to high noon. A look at local Holy Week observances: • The Kiwanis Club of Anna Maria Island and island churches will host the 57th anniversary Easter Sunday Sunrise Service at 6:30 a.m. April. 17 at the Manatee Public Beach at the west end of Manatee Avenue in Holmes Beach. The fare-free trolley begins operating at about 6 a.m., bringing the faithful to the beach from all parts of AMI. People are encouraged to bring a flashlight to find their way on the beach, chairs or blankets for seating on the sand, as well as dress for cool morning temperatures. For more information, contact Kiwanis Club secretary Sandy Haas-Martens at 941-778-1383. • CrossPointe Fellowship, 8605 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, will hold its Good Friday service at 7 p.m. April 15 and its Easter Sunday service at 9 a.m. For more information, call CrossPointe at 941778-0719. • Episcopal Church of the Annunciation, 4408 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, will hold a Mass at 5:30 p.m. Wednesday, April 13, followed by a soup supper. The church will observe Maundy Thursday at 6 p.m. April 14, Good Friday at 9:15 a.m. and 6 p.m. and Easter Sunday at 7:30 a.m., 9 a.m. and 11 a.m. For more information, call the church at 941-7781638. • Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, 6608 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, will hold worship Maundy Thursday at 9:30 a.m., Good Friday at 9:30 a.m. and Easter Sunday at 9:30 a.m. For more information, call Gloria Dei at 941-7781813. • Harvey Memorial Community Church, 300 Church Ave., Bradenton Beach, will hold an Easter Sunday service at 9:15 a.m.

Growing in Jesus’ Name

An easter sunrise service begins at Manatee Public Beach in 2019. This year’s service, organized by the Kiwanis club of Anna Maria island, will begin at about 6:30 a.m. Sunday, April 17, at the beach. islander file Photo: Jack elka ,

Gathering is the religion page for The Islander. Send announcements, calendar listings and photos to calendar@islander.org. For more information, call Harvey at 941-7791912. • Roser Memorial Community Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, will observe Maundy Thursday and Good Friday events at noon. Roser services on Easter Sunday will be at 8:30 a.m. in the sanctuary and 10 a.m. outside. The church also will hold an Easter egg hunt. • St. Bernard Catholic Church, 248 S. Harbor Drive, Holmes Beach, will hold Holy Thursday Mass and Last Supper at 6 p.m., Stations of the Cross at 2:30 p.m. April 15, Good Friday Liturgy of the Passion at 3 p.m., Holy Saturday Easter Vigil at 8 p.m. and Easter Sunday Masses at 8:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. For more information, call St. Bernard at 941-7784769. Also, on Longboat Key, Christ Church of Longboat Key, 6400 Gulf of Mexico Drive, will observe Maundy Thursday at 7:30 p.m., Good Friday at 1 p.m. and Easter Sunday at 8:30 a.m. and 10 a.m. For more information, call the church at 941-3838833.

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Longboat Island Chapel observes Earth Day

The Longboat Island Chapel will celebrate Earth Day with nature talks and nature walks. Activities will be 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Friday, April 22, on the chapel grounds, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key. Featured activities include walks through the Longboat Island Friendship and Harvest Gardens, guided bay walks with representatives from the Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, keynote remarks from a representative with the Sarasota Bay Estuary Program and other talks in the garden gazebo. The church will host exhibitors, including All Clams on Deck, Conservation Foundation of the Gulf Coast, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, Florida Forest Service, Florida Maritime Museum, Longboat Key Garden Club, Longboat Key Turtle Watch, Manatee County Recycling Program, Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, Mote Marine Laboratory, Sarasota Bay Watch, Save our Seabirds, town of Longboat Key, Wildlife Inc. of Bradenton Beach and more. For more, call the chapel at 941-383-6491.

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APril 13, 2022 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 15 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Freestyle: HB resident gifts skateboards to local kids By Kane Kaiman islander reporter

This creative skateboarder builds on the sport he loves. Almost three dozen boarders are up and rolling thanks to Cory Andrews’ freewheeling ways. He’s been giving out free skateboards to young people in the island area for more than a year. “I just like to see kids be able to try new things and try new sports,” Andrews said April 7. “And it’s almost kind of selfish for me. I can kind of live vicariously a little bit through kids trying it out for the first time.” The sport became an all-consuming pastime for Andrews, 49, as he grew up in rural upstate New York. As a boy, he used lumber his uncle bought to build a shed for a different purpose — erecting a skate ramp. “But he didn’t make us tear it down and that thing stood in my backyard for probably five or six years before it finally fell apart,” he said. Andrews and his wife moved from Lewiston, New York, to Holmes Beach in August 2020. He soon began skating more frequently and, noticing the Holmes Beach Micro Skate Park, wondered if free boards would encourage area kids to give the sport a try. Since then, he’s donated about 30 skateboards to kids and four to adults, mostly connecting with recipients through the Island Ratz Unite Facebook page. Due to the pandemic and a busy work schedule, Andrews, who runs an IT refurbishment company in Sarasota, hasn’t met many of the recipients face-to-

Obituary

Patricia Ann Banyas

Patricia Ann Banyas, 90, of Cortez, died April 5 with family by her side. She was born March 23, 1932, and raised in Cortez. She married and settled in Bradenton Beach, where she raised her family and then moved back to Cortez for many great years. “Patty Cakes,” as she was called by her grandchildren, was always there to help and comfort them and was she cherished and adored by them. There also were many friends over the years with whom she enjoyed spending time. Not to forget, she was a successful business woman in real estate, printing and restaurant endeavors. She was a gentle soul who will be missed very much. Visitation and a service were held April 9, at Brown & Sons Funeral Homes & Crematory 43rd Street Chapel, 604 43rd St. W., Bradenton. Condolences may be made to www.brownandsonsfuneral. com. Mrs. Banyas is survived by her family and many friends.

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“Anna Maria Island,” a signed pictorial history book of the island by Bonner Joy, is available for $20 at The islander office, 315 58th St., Holmes Beach, or by mail. Visit islander.org or call 941-778-7978. $20 plus postage, if applicable.

cory Andrews adjusts skateboard trucks April 9 at his home in Holmes Beach. He’s overhauled and donated more than 30 boards to skaters in the island area. islander Photo: courtesy Julie Andrews

stuff,” he said. Andrews is laying the groundwork for secondhandstoke.org, a nonprofit that will get action sports equipment into the hands of needy children. He hopes to have the organization up and running by the end of the year. In the meantime, he’ll continue to provide boards to area kids, especially children who have never tried the sport. “That’s kind of the kick I get out of doing it because who knows what could come of that?” he said. “You might be changing somebody’s situation just by the little act of giving them a skateboard.” For updates on Andrews’ nonprofit, visit secondhandstoke.org.

face. But he’s received happy messages and photos from the grateful new skaters using boards he refurbished or assembled. Andrews purchases used parts in bulk and spends about six hours a week overhauling equipment for future skaters. He typically gives boards away on a first-come, first-served basis to people in the area who demonstrate their intent on putting them to good use. Action sports — including skateboarding, snowboarding and skiing — offer kids who may not thrive in a team sport environment the opportunity to build admirable character traits, Andrews said. “You pick up the ability to fall off of something and get back on it, problem-solving, creativity, all that

Macros at the museum

A chambered nautilus photograph by Scott odell is featured in “illumination: Seeing Beyond the Shell,” an exhibit that was set to open Tuesday, April 12, at the Bishop Museum of Science and Nature. The exhibit features odell’s macro photography. “i just wanted to show people objects in a different light and that anything can be viewed another way by just changing the light source, angles and color,” odell said in a news release from the museum, 201 • The Friends of the Island Library seeks storage 10th St. W., Bradenton. Admission to the exhibit is space for donations to its annual book sale. Informa- included in the admission price for the museum. tion: 941-778-6341. for more information, call the museum at 941-746• Moonracer Animal Rescue seeks volunteers to 4131. islander courtesy Photo

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Assistance sought on AMI

offer foster and forever homes for rescued animals. Information: 941-345-2441. • The Roser Food Bank seeks donations. Roser Memorial Community Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, administers the pantry, supported by All Island Denominations. Information: 941-778-0414.

Assistance offered on AMI

• The Roser Food Bank welcomes applicants who live and/or work on Anna Maria Island for food assistance, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Information: 941-778-0414. • AID offers 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. Information: 941-7252433.

At your service

Standard obituaries are offered as a community service to residents and their families past and present, as well as to those people with ties to the island. Submit to news@islander.org. Obituaries are provided free — a service of your community newspaper. For a paid obituary, call 941-778-7978.

Sarasota gallery features islander’s work

The Stakenborg Greenberg Fine Art Gallery is featuring the work of islander artist Richard Thomas in “Go Figure 2022.” A Facebook post said the gallery, 1545 Main St., was hosting a reception and customer appreciation day Wednesday, April 13. The reception will be 6-8 p.m. Artists include Thomas, KD Thomas Tobin, Saul Rubenstein, Leroy Neiman, Peter Max, Wayne Eastep, Nikitas Kavoukles and Urusala Sternberg. For more information, call the gallery at 941487-8001.

Page 16 THE ISLANDER | islander.org April 13, 2022 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

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Bradenton Beach commits to Bridge St. clock tower overhaul By robert Anderson islander reporter

The bell isn’t ringing. People who visited the Historic Bridge Street Pier boardwalk recently might have noticed caution tape around the clock tower near the entrance. The tower’s bell system, added in 2003, was surveyed recently by Verdin Co., an Ohio-based clock and tower specialist, at the behest of the city. The surveyor determined the bell posed a danger to public safety. In a March 28 email, Brain Straits, regional manager at Verdin, informed Bradenton Beach public works director, Tom Woodard, that the bell is dangerous and should be replaced. “You don’t want the bell falling,” Straits wrote. “A good storm could really cause a problem. We can’t say how long it will hang in there but we do suggest that you turn the bell off. The force of the striker hitting and vibrating the bell just makes it worse.” Woodard told The Islander April 6 that “the boardwalk is still open. You can’t walk underneath the bell but you can still use the boardwalk.” Woodard also addressed the issue during an April

7 city commission meeting and noted the city already allocated funding for repairs to the tower. “Just so you know, it is not about to fall,” Woodard said. “I’ve had my staff go up and look at it. It’s not going to fall but we wanted to err on the side of caution.” Strait, in his email, described a $11,985 proposal for repairs: “A new striker and components will be updated with … materials that will hold up even better in the salt air. We will also use stainless steel and will galvanize other steel parts. This will ensure the longevity of all the new equipment. We will use the existing Verdin MCC3 controller for both the clocks and bells. This will help keep them synced together.” The city could upgrade the software, too. City workers have been climbing and setting the clock systems by hand but, with a software upgrade, they could program the clock remotely. Commissioners voted unanimously to approve the proposal from Verdin for the $11,985 repair. “It’s long overdue for work to be done on the clock tower,” Mayor John Chappie said. “The opportunity is The Bridge Street clock tower is marked off-limits now with season almost gone.” April 6. islander Photo: robert Anderson Repairs will begin in about a month.

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APril 13, 2022 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 19 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

FISH ponders preserve access, shift in village demographics By Kane Kaiman islander reporter

It’ll be open 24/7 to those willing to hike it. At an April 4 meeting in Cortez, the Florida Institute for Saltwater Heritage board discussed how, in the future, the public will interact with a 100-acre nature preserve the nonprofit has been restoring since 2005. FISH is seeking funding for the final phase of the restoration, with approximately $300,000 needed. Before the meeting, the Sarasota Bay Estuary Program policy board — which has helped FISH secure restoration funds in the past — asked the organization to share its plans for access to the sanctuary after the land is restored to its natural state, including information about public parking and hours of operation. FISH treasurer Jane von Hahmann told board members at the meeting she replied to SBEP that gates to the sanctuary, east of the historic fishing village, will be open from morning to late afternoon and that the preserve will be accessible around the clock to people on foot via an entrance adjacent to the “trap

yard” at the end of 119th Street West. Board members discussed creating a “full Cortez experience” — a looping path along which visitors could hike through the preserve and to the Cortez Cultural Center, FISH Boatworks and the Florida Maritime Museum. Steve Baker suggested maps be made to demonstrate the organization’s commitment to the idea. Von Hahmann reported the nonprofit, dedicated to preserving Cortez’s commercial fishing heritage, is seeking a grant to cover the costs of an informational kiosk, trail signage and benches that would be placed within the preserve. The board also reviewed a finalized preserve billboard design on which they had collaborated with the SBEP. The 4-by-8-foot sign — which will feature the organizations that partnered with FISH on the restoration effort, as well as ospreys, a mullet and a line of mangroves — likely will be installed within the next six months east of 115th Street West along the south side of Cortez Road, von Hahmann said.

Island paddlers return to racing AMi Paddlers from Paradise, in their yellow racing shirts, pose for a team photo April 2 in inverness. The AMi senior women paddlers broke their all-time record for a 300-meter race during competition at the inverness Dragon Boat festival. islander courtesy Photos

A sign on the outskirts of the fiSH Preserve pictured near cortez road east of 115th Street West April 6 will be replaced later this year. islander Photo: Kane Kaiman

A changing village During a discussion about adjusting FISH property rental fees, Baker said the organization likely would need to raise rates to keep pace with increases in property taxes. The dialogue led to a conversation about the housing market, which has incentivized descendants of Cortez working-class families to sell their properties to buyers of short-term rentals. “It’s going to be a significant thing. It’ll change the whole culture of the village,” Baker said. “I agree. It’s all Airbnb. It isn’t homes; we don’t have people who work and live here anymore,” von Hahmann said. Baker and von Hahmann agreed that one way to preserve the character of the fishing village — which has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 1995 — would be incorporation. Von Hahmann told The Islander April 5 that municipal self-governance could allow Cortez — currently an unincorporated community subject to Manatee County ordinances — to prohibit daily rentals within its boundaries and thereby encourage owneroccupancy.

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Paddlers from Paradise race to a third-place win at the inverness Dragon Boat festival, held April 2 at inverness’ Wallace Brooks Park venue. The island-based team has been practicing for months but only returned to competition this month, after a two-year hiatus due to the pandemic. for more information, contact Melinda Bradway at 941-462-2626.

in its first race of the season, the Nathan Benderson Park Dragons dragon boat team, including Holmes Beach resident rickard Jensen, in black, paddles its way to a gold medal at a festival in inverness. People interested in dragon boating can contact Jensen at 575-749-9211 or rickardallanjensen1@ gmail.com. islander courtesy Photo

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Page 20 THE ISLANDER | islander.org APril 13, 2022 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Bradenton Beach honors ‘Officer of the Year’ By robert Anderson islander reporter

The Bradenton Beach Police Department’s Devon Straight took home the city’s “Officer of Year” award, presented April 7 by Chief John Cosby. Straight is no stranger to accolades on the job. He also earned the honor in 2019. Cosby, addressing the city commission, praised Straight for his role in the 2021 arrest of a Bradenton resident for two carjackings at Coquina Beach. “I am here tonight to honor Officer Devon Straight,” Cosby said. “He is our 2021 Officer of the Year. On Aug. 12, 2021, Officer Straight responded quickly to two attempted carjackings in progress. Upon arrival, Officer Straight arrested and secured the suspect.” Cosby said Straight’s quick action during the arrest and attention to detail during the investigation led to the conviction of the man, including a sentence of 12 years in prison for an attempted carjacking with a deadly weapon and aggravated battery with a deadly weapon. BBPD chief John cosby, right, congratulates “offiStraight received a plaque and a round of applause cer of the Year” Devon Straight at the April 7 Brafrom commissioners and meeting attendees. denton Beach commission meeting.

HBPD arrests 2 juveniles with stolen vehicle By ryan Paice islander reporter

An April 2 car chase that started in Holmes Beach ended in a crash in Bradenton and the arrest of two unnamed juveniles. The city’s license plate recognition system pinged a stolen vehicle around 8 p.m. traveling westbound past the Kingfish Boat Ramp on Manatee Avenue. An officer located the vehicle at the intersection of Manatee and Sixth avenues. After confirming the vehicle as stolen, the officer initiated a traffic stop, but the motorist accelerated and fled over the Anna Maria Island Bridge toward Bradenton, passing multiple vehicles in a no-passing zone and eventually losing control on a turn. The vehicle crashed head-on into a palm tree in the 4100 block of Second Avenue Northwest, where the driver exited the vehicle and fled. The officer provided a description of the driver over the radio and turned his attention to the vehicle’s three passengers, all juveniles. Backup arrived and police handcuffed the passengers. One passenger, a 14-year-old boy, was transported to HCA Florida Blake Hospital in Bradenton for injuries sustained in the crash.

Police found several arrest warrants out of Pinellas County for the injured juvenile, including warrants for possession of a controlled substance, grand theft motor vehicle, resisting arrest without violence and three for carrying a concealed firearm. Police arrested the teen after he was cleared by hospital staff and transported him to the Manatee Regional Juvenile Detention Center in Bradenton. The other passengers were 14- and 17-year-old girls who were identified as missing persons out of Manatee County. The girls’ parents picked them up and one of the girls’ mothers provided information on the driver. Police searched the vehicle and found a loaded flare gun and flares, shotgun shells and clothing with price tags attached. According to an April 5 news release from the Holmes Beach Police Department, the driver was later identified, located and arrested. The release states, “It was learned by one of the parents that the same four juveniles were arrested in Pinellas County for driving a stolen vehicle and shooting the flare gun.” The arrested juveniles’ names and court proceedings will remain confidential due to their age unless they are charged by the state as adults.

Streetlife

Staff reports

Island police reports

Anna Maria April 1, 700 block North Shore Drive, burglary. The Manatee County Sheriff’s Office responded to a complaint from a resident about a theft of laptops. A statement was taken. A suspect was not identified. A case number was assigned. April 4, 500 block of Spring Avenue, larceny. A homeowner called the MCSO to report the theft of garbage bins. A deputy responded and a search was completed but nothing was found. Waste Management was contacted and a case number was assigned. April 4, 500 block Pine Avenue, missing vehicle. The MSCO responded to a report of a stolen, fourseat LSV. The complainant reported they returned to the location of their rented cart to find their belongings pushed onto the roadside and the cart missing. A deputy contacted the rental company and was advised that, due to contractual violations, they had contacted the renter about returning the cart. After receiving no response from the renter, Fun and More of Holmes Beach took back their vehicle. Deputies advised the renter the dispute was a civil matter. The MSCO polices Anna Maria Island. Bradenton Beach No new reports. Bradenton Beach Police Department polices Bradenton Beach. Cortez March 31, 11000 block of Cortez Road West, disturbance. The Manatee County Sheriff’s Office responded to complaints of two people fighting and yelling at a residence. A deputy determined the argument was verbal and no one was in danger. A warning was given. The MSCO polices Cortez. Holmes Beach March 31, Holmes Beach Police Department, 5801 Marina Drive, fraud. A man entered the HBPD to report potential credit card fraud involving four charges. He said he tried contacting a phone number

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Alleged bike thief nabbed by BB police officer By robert Anderson islander reporter

Just try to out-pedal the law. Bradenton Beach Police Officer Eric Hill was on his way to work March 30 when he observed a man, later identified as Bradenton resident Levi Oxendine, riding a bicycle on Gulf Drive in Holmes Beach. The bicyclist may have stood out, considering the man had another bike balanced atop his handlebars, according to the Bradenton Beach police report. Hill suspected thievery — and signaled with his patrol car sirens in an attempt to stop the bicyclist, who abandoned the extra bike and tried to pedal away. A chase ensued, ending with Hill arresting Oxendine and impounding two bicycles that later were reported stolen by owners who agreed to press charges. The combined value of the bikes is about $3,600, according to the Bradenton Beach Police Department. Oxendine was arrested for second-degree burglary to an occupied structure, first-degree obstruction without violence and possession of drug paraphernalia.

In Florida, burglary of an occupied structure is a second-degree felony and punishable by up to 15 years in prison, 15 years of probation and a $10,000 fine. Obstruction without violence is a first-degree misdemeanor. Possession of drug paraphernalia in Florida is punishable with up to a year in jail, a year of probation and a $1,000 fine. Cosby, speaking at the April 6 meeting of the community redevelopment agency — which includes as members the city commissioners and mayor as well as two nongovernment members — recognized Hill. “Your quick actions resulted in the apprehension of a known burglary suspect and the return of stolen property,” the chief said. Hill received a round of applause. Meanwhile, Oxendine was being held April 7 in the Manatee County jail on $8,500 bond. He pleaded not guilty and demanded a jury trial, according to court records. He is next scheduled to appear in court April 22 at the Manatee County Judicial Center, 1051 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton.

Bradenton Beach Police chief John cosby credits officer eric Hill, during the city’s April 6 community redevelopment agency meeting for the arrest of a Bradenton man accused of bike theft. islander Photos: robert Anderson

stReetLIFe froM PAge 20

connected to the charges and reached voicemail. An officer told the man to contact the HBPD if he discovered new information about the transactions. April 3, 100 block of 45th Street, marijuana. An officer responded to reports of two people smoking marijuana. Both presented medical marijuana licenses but handed the officer marijuana that lacked proper packaging. The officer confiscated the marijuana. April 4, 3600 block of Gulf Drive, recovered property. An officer found an abandoned bicycle. The officer recovered the bike and placed it in storage. April 5, 5800 block of Holmes Boulevard, petit theft. A person called the HBPD to report two rental bicycles went missing from a driveway overnight. An officer contacted the rental company for information to identify the bikes. April 5, 100 block of 79th Street, petit theft. An officer responded to reports of a stolen bicycle and found the complainant, who said a rental bike went missing that evening from the patio at his rental property. The man provided descriptions for the bikes.

The officer contacted a neighbor for footage from a path and provided a description. security camera within view. The officer issued the Holmes Beach Police Department polices Holmes complainant a case card. Beach. April 5, 100 block of 79th Street, alcohol. Two Streetlife is based on incident reports and narraofficers saw a teenager holding a cup on the beach tives from the BBPD, HBPD and MCSO. and attempting to dump its contents after he was seen by police. The officers asked him if the cup contained alcohol and the teen said it had and was provided by his parents. The officers located the rest of the family, Island watch issued a citation and escorted them from the beach In an emergency, call 911. for possessing alcohol. To report information, call April 5, 100 block of 78th Street, larceny. An the MCSO Anna Maria officer responded to reports of a stolen bicycle and substation, 941-708found the complainant, who said the bike provided 8899; Bradenton Beach police, 941-778-6311; or at his vacation rental went missing that evening. He Holmes Beach police, 941-708-5804. said he left the bike unsecured along a beach access

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Page 22 THE ISLANDER | islander.org APril 13, 2022 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Manatees get frisky in Palma Sola Bay

gregg callanan was quick to snap photos as an aggregate of manatees passed by the dock at his home on Palma Sola Bay in flamingo cay. is that a manatee kiss? Well, they’re not telling. Boaters are advised to be alert for manatees in the waters surrounding Anna Maria island. islander Photos: courtesy gregg and Kellen callanan

Slipped anchor A derelict vessel is moored April 6 at the Historic Bridge Street Pier in Bradenton Beach. Bradenton Beach police requested an assist from the florida fish and Wildlife conservation commission to moor the boat after it slipped its anchor and ran aground. The BBPD patrol boat is under repair at the Bradenton Beach Marina, which prompted the call to the fWc to secure the wayward vessel. islander Photo: robert Anderson

Resources for storm info

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

Storm names 2022

By Lisa Neff

Above-normal Atlantic season forecast for 2022

Scientists are predicting another active hurricane season in the Atlantic basin. An early forecast for the hurricane season that runs June 1-Nov. 30 calls for “above-normal activity,” with “an above-average probability for major hurricanes making landfall along the continental U.S. coastline and in the Caribbean.” The April 7 forecast is from Colorado State University Department of Atmospheric Science researchers Neff Philip J. Klotzbach and Michael M. Bell, who calculated: • Probabilities for at least one major hurricane making landfall include: 71% on the continental U.S. coastline compared with an average of 52%; 47% on the East Coast including the Florida peninsula compared with an average 31% for the last century; 46% on the Gulf Coast from the Florida Panhandle to Brownsville, Texas, compared with an average of 30% for the last century. • Probability of at least one major hurricane tracking into the Caribbean: 60%. • Probability of at least one named storm within 50 miles of Florida: 96%. • Probability of a hurricane within 50 miles of Florida: 75%. Probability of a major hurricane within 50 miles of Florida: 44%. The CSU scientists take a variety of factors into

Say the names like a Weather Channel pro: • Alex (AL-leks); • Bonnie (BAH-nee); • Colin (KAH-lihn); • Danielle (dan-YELL); • Earl (URR-ull); • Fiona (fee-OH-nuh); • Gaston (ga-STAWN); •Hermine (her-MEEN); •Ian (EE-an); • Julia (JOO-lee-uh); • Karl (KAR-ull); • Lisa (LEE-suh); • Martin (MAR-tin); • Nicole (nih-KOHL); • Owen (OH-uhn); •Paula (PAHL-luh); • Richard (RIH-churd); • Shary (SHAHR-ee); • Tobias (toh-BEE-uss); • Virginie (vir-JIN-ee); • Walter (WALL-tur).

account when formulating their forecast. They said we currently have weak La Nina conditions, which probably will transition to neutral El Nino–Southern Oscillation by late summer or early fall, but the odds of a significant El Nino seem unlikely. La Nina conditions tend to increase hurricane activity in the Atlantic basin. Also, sea surface temperatures averaged across the eastern and central tropical Atlantic are near average, while Caribbean and subtropical Atlantic sea surface temperatures are warmer than normal. The CSU researchers always include the following caution in their forecasts: “Coastal residents are reminded that it only takes one hurricane making landfall to make it an active season for them. They should prepare the same for every season, regardless of how

The eye of a hurricane. cSu researchers forecast an above-normal season for 2022. islander file Photo

Stormy weather ahead Parameters Named storms Named storm days Hurricanes Hurricane days Major hurricanes Major ’cane days

Forecast 19 90 9 35 4 9

Average 14.4 69.4 .2 27.0 3.2 7.4

Source: colorado State university

much activity is predicted.” Did you know? El Nino is a naturally occurring climate phenomenon that starts with unusually warm water in the central and eastern equatorial Pacific and then changes weather worldwide. The term refers to the interaction of that warmth with the atmosphere in the region, shifting currents in the air 5-10 miles above sea level. The shifts affect weather for thousands of miles, leading to storm tracks and belts of strong winds. The flip side of El Nino is La Nina, which is an occasional natural cooling of the equatorial Pacific that also changes weather worldwide. La Nina’s effects often are opposite of El Nino, so there are more hurricanes in the Atlantic and fewer in the Pacific.

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Vacation destinations are often known for long-standing festivals and events that bring visitors and locals together for celebrations. Annual music, art and food events are often cited as occasions that impact vacation schedules. Fortunately for families with children, Anna Maria Island is host to many of these celebrations throughout the year. May is known for Snooks Adams Day, July 4th is the Privateers Parade, and October welcomes the Trail of Treats. A special event on the horizon is the Easter Egg Hunt at the Sandbar on April 16th from 9-11AM. The 10th annual Egg Roll is scheduled and is reminiscent of the celebrated Egg Roll on the White House Lawn. Children delight in the competition of rolling real hard-boiled eggs down a course in the sand with the reward of a prize at the end. Now in its 34th year, the Easter Egg Hunt takes place on the beach in front of the Sandbar. Children 10 and under bring their baskets and gather as PDQ\ HJJV DV WKH\ FDQ ¿QG Over-the-top adorned bonnets are decorated prior to the celebration and often worn to the event and prizes are awarded to the judge’s favorites in adult and youth categories. Always the highlight of the day, the Easter Bunny makes a special appearance each year as the guest of honor to the delight of the children and parents alike. Arts and crafts, refreshments from the Sandbar and DJ Chuck Caudill make

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Planned activities: •9AM Pavilion opens with crafts, coloring pages, egg roll and refreshments •9:30AM Egg Hunt on the beach in front of the restaurant •10:15AM Bonnet Contest (youth and adult categories) The Sandbar is always committed to giving back to the community. The restaurant hosts this free event for children and families.

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Page 24 THE ISLANDER | islander.org APril 13, 2022 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Soccer, golf, horseshoes dominate week By Kevin P. cassidy islander reporter

Adult soccer season is underway in Anna Maria. After two weeks of action in the adult league at the Center of Anna Maria Island, Moss Builders and Sato Real Estate are tied atop the standings with 2-0 records. Gulfview Windows & Doors, Servis First Bank and Progressive Cabinetry follow with matching 1-1 records. The Gitt Team and Shady Lady are 0-1-1. Salty Printing rounds out the soccer standcassidy ings at 0-2. Action April 7 kicked off with Moss Builders cruising to a 5-2 victory over Servis First Bank behind two goals and an assist from Gerardo Urbiola. Goals from Hakan Toka and Chris Klotz and an inadvertent own goal by Servis completed the scoring for Moss in the victory. Connor Haughey and Race Arande scored a goal each for Servis First Bank, which also received three saves from Yuri Pereira in the loss. The Gitt Team and Shady Lady battled to a 0-0 tie in the second game of the night. Mark Long made six saves to lead Gitt, while Jake Parsons came through with seven saves for Shady Lady in the tie.

low-net match in three flights April 5. Debbie DuVernay fired a 5-under-par 27 to take first place in Flight A by three strokes over secondplace finishers Judy Christenson and Pam Lowry. Roxanne Koche was alone in third place at 1-under-par 31. Pam Alvord blistered the course with a 7-underpar 25, good for first place in Flight B and the low-net round of the day. Mary Wilke and Annette Hall tied for second at 2-under-par 30, while Cate Foy was another stroke back in third. Tom farrington, left, made two trips to the winner’s Terry Westby fired a 3-under-par 29 to take first circle in early April. He walked his way to victory place in Flight C, four strokes better than second-place April 6 and then teamed up with Jay Disbrow to win finisher Laney Davis. Barb Harrold and Ann Hitchen April 9 bragging rights. islander Photo: courtesy tied for third at 3-over-par 35. AMi Pitchers The club held a nine-hole shamble April 7 with the two best scores being counted. The team of Tom Selena Gonzalez scored two goals to lead Sato Solosky, Ken Nagengast and Al Waal combined on a Real Estate past Salty Printing in the third match of 1-under-par 63 to earn the day’s bragging rights. the night. Will Kretzman, Daniel Anderson and Damir Glavan each added goals for Sato, while Ben Sato Horseshoe news April 6 horseshoe action at the Anna Maria City made one save to help preserve the victory. Luca Vecchio notched the lone goal on an assist Hall pits saw three teams post 3-0 pool play records from Nick Cavaluzzi for Salty Printing, which also to advance to the knockout stage. Tom Farrington received a combined 11 saves from Tuna McCracken drew the lucky bye into the finals and watched as Bob Heiger and John Yaroch eliminated Rick Mitchell and and Tyler Brewer in the loss. The last match of the evening saw Gulfview Win- Adin Shank by a 21-7 score. Farrington jumped out to dows & Doors demolish Progressive Cabinetry 11-2 an early lead and locked down the 21-6 victory over behind five goals from Keith Mahoney and four goals Heiger and Yaroch with back-to-back double ringers. The April 9 games also saw three teams advance from Greg Ross. Emily Argeros and Daniel Adan added a goal each, while Osvaldo Cabello helped preserve to the playoffs with 3-0 records during pool play. Farrington and Jay Disbrow drew the bye and the victory with seven saves. Robb Marshall and Steve Oelfke combined on 10 watched as Karl Thomas and Bob Lee moved into the finals thanks to a game-ending, double ringer by Lee saves for Progressive Cabinetry in the loss. The adult action will continue at 6 p.m. Thursday, that gave Thomas and Lee a 21-13 victory over Heiger and Shank. April 14, at the center pitch. The championship match was a back-and-forth affair that saw Farrington and Disbrow hold on for a Key Royale golf news Action on the links at the Key Royale Club got 21-19 victory over Thomas and Lee to win the day and started April 4 with the men’s weekly modifed-Sta- give Farrington a perfect week. Play gets underway at 9 a.m. Wednesdays and Satbleford system match. Bob Rowley carded a plus-5, scoring five points above his average, to win the day’s urdays at the Anna Maria pits. Warm ups begin at 8:45 a.m. followed by random team selection. There is no proceedings. The women then played a nine-hole individual- charge to play and everyone is welcome.

Shooting hoops at CrossPointe

Scott Bacon of grand rapids, Michigan, drops in April 7 at the Holmes Beach skate park near city hall. His family went to the beach during their visit to Anna Maria island, while he opted to go boarding. islander Photo: ryan Paice

Teenagers from indiana and Michigan play a game of pickup basketball April 7 on the court outside crossPointe fellowship, 8605 gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. islander Photo: ryan Paice

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Anna Maria Island Tides

Date

Apr 13 Apr14 Apr15 Apr16 Apr17 Apr18 Apr19 Apr20

11:26a 11:35a 11:48a 12:33a 1:23a 2:19a 3:27a 2:03p

HIGH

1.7 1.8 1.9 1.9 1.8 1.6 1.4 2.7

10:52p 11:43p — 12:05p 12:27p 12:54p 1:26p —

HIGH

1.9 1.9 — 2.1 2.3 2.5 2.7 —

LOW

4:43a 0.0 5:14a 0.2 5:42a 0.4 6:06a 0.6 6:27a 0.8 6:45a 1.0 6:55a 1.1 10:28p -0.5

4:44p 5:23p 6:03p 6:45p 7:31p 8:23p 9:21p —

LOW

0.7 0.4 0.1 -0.1 -0.3 -0.5 -0.5 —

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

Moon

Full

April 13, 2022 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 25 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Fronts bring windy days, cooler temps, backwater fishing By Capt. Danny Stasny Islander Reporter

Springtime fishing around Anna Maria Island can be a windy affair. Northern cold fronts are sweeping down to our area bringing windy days and slightly milder temperatures than we’re accustomed to in the South. The milder temperatures — in the 60s overnight and ranging in the 70s to 80s in the day — are welcome but Stasny not the wind. At least, not from this fisher’s standpoint on the water. But don’t be discouraged, as there are plenty of inshore fishable waters on even the windiest days. Fishing close to mangrove shorelines in sheltered areas is working well. Luckily for us, snook and redfish call these areas home, making them targetable when the wind and chop kick up. Getting to some of these areas in a boat might pose a challenge but, for those willing to brave rough water, the reward is plentiful. Many snook are being found throughout the local waters. In fact, the numbers of snook measuring 20-24 inches is encouraging for the future of this fishery. Redfish are being found in decent numbers, although not anywhere near the snook. Spotted seatrout, another popular backcountry fish, also are abundant. Fishing slightly deeper flats near the mangrove shoreline is providing excellent action on these fish. On some flats, the trout are being caught as fast as the bait goes in the water. And, on the deeper grass flats, other species, including Spanish mackerel, jack crevalle and ladyfish, are being caught alongside the trout. These fish add spice to the routine bite. On calmer days, adventurous anglers are migrating offshore to target a variety of species. Although opportunities to fish offshore are limited by the wind, those determined to go are being rewarded with catches of permit, snappers, kingfish and amberjack. On my Just Reel charters, I’m finding the flats fishing to be good. Snook fishing is as good as it gets, resulting in 20-30 catch-and-release size snook on a morning charter. I’m also seeing some keeper-size fish being hooked and released. These larger, slot-sized fish, measuring 28-33 inches, are a thrill for anglers to catch on medium-light spinning gear. While targeting snook, I’m seeing redfish being caught, most in the upper-slot or over-slot range, measuring 25-35 inches. Lastly, the spotted seatrout bite is fantastic. Limits of these fish are attainable, although catch-and-release is encouraged. The fish reproduce rapidly, so keeping a few for a meal also is an option. While targeting trout, some large Spanish mackerel being caught, as well as jacks and ladyfish. Capt. David White is working inshore throughout the waters of Tampa Bay. Fishing over structure in the bay — reefs and wrecks — is resulting in catches of numerous mackerel. Free-lining live shiners on a long shank hook is leading to multiple hookups on these voracious migratory predators. Most mackerel are on the larger side, measuring 20-26 inches. While targeting these macks, anglers are hooking into jack crevalle and ladyfish. On these shallow grass flats in Tampa Bay, White is finding plenty of snook, as well as redfish for his clients. Both are being caught around

Justin Grynovicki of Maryland shows off a 29-inch slot-sized snook he caught and released April 6 while on a guided fishing trip with Capt. Danny Stasny of Just Reel Fishing Charters.

mangrove shorelines where good tidal flow exists. Capt. Warren Girle is finding good action throughout the grass flats of Sarasota Bay, where spotted seatrout are being found in abundance on the deeper flats. While targeting the trout, Girle is putting clients on ladyfish, jacks and macks. On the shallower flats, Girle is finding success with catch-and-release snook and redfish. Both are responding to live shiners as bait. For the snook, mangrove shorelines are working best. As for the reds, Girle is locating schooling reds on the open flats. On calmer days, fishing the Gulf of Mexico is feasible, and Girle is putting clients on kingfish action, with catches weighing up to 30 pounds. Jim Malfese at the Rod & Reel Pier says pier fishers using live shrimp as bait are hooking a few sheepshead although most are on the small side. On days when bait schools are present around the pier, mackerel, jack crevalle and ladyfish are being targeted by anglers using small jigs or silver spoons. The number of snook arriving at the pier is everincreasing as the water temperatures rise. Snook 20-30

Ivan Barnsley of Bradenton and England, owner of Island Mail and Print in Holmes Beach, shows off a nice redfish he caught April 7 inshore on white bait. Barnsley and his crew caught and released numerous redfish and snook with the help of their guide, Capt. Warren Girle.

inches are being caught by anglers using live baits — shrimp, shiners and pinfish. Capt. Jason Stock says permit is the highlight of offshore fishing for another week. Freelining live crabs over wrecks and reefs in the Gulf of Mexico is leading to permit ranging 10-20 pounds. Not only are these fish one of the fiercest adversaries for their size on spinning gear, but they are quite good to eat. Stock also is turning his anglers onto mangrove and vermilion snapper. Both are frequently being caught while bottom fishing over structure. Lastly, amberjack and kingfish are finding their way to Stock’s boat. Freelining live baits — shiners and threadfin herring — is working well to lure these large offshore predators to the hook. Send high-resolution photos and fishing reports to fish@islander.org.

‘No swim’ advisory remains for causeway beach

A “no swim” advisory issued April 1 remained in effect April 11 for the Palma Sola South beach along State Road 64/Manatee Avenue. Other beaches in Manatee County were not under an advisory, including Bayfront Park North in Anna Maria, Manatee Public Beach in Holmes Beach and Coquina and Cortez beaches in Bradenton Beach. A “no swim” advisory indicates water contact may pose an increased risk of infectious diseases to humans, according to a news release from the Florida Department of Health in Manatee County. Health department officials said test results from samples taken at Palma Sola South March 28 and again March 30 showed an elevated level of enterococci bacteria. The advisory will be in effect until the water meets U.S. Environmental Protection Agency guidelines. Water quality at some county beaches is monitored under the Healthy Beaches Monitoring Program. Water samples are analyzed for enteric bacteria, which can cause human disease, infections or rashes. For more information about the program, call the health department at 941-714-7593 or go online to www.floridahealth.gov and select “beach water quality” under the “Environmental Health” tab. — Lisa Neff

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isl

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compiled by Kane Kaiman

AMI Chamber THIS WEEK

Thursday, April 14 11:30 a.m. — Chamber luncheon, Pesto Bistro and Wine, 8799 Cortez Road W., Bradenton.

By Kane Kaiman

Swinging for better than par

No Beach’N The Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce will not be holding a Beach’N Food Truck and Music Festival this year, an April event the nonprofit began hosting in 2016. “Out of the five years that we’ve held the (event), there’s been a problem with three. It’s been a weather problem, a bee problem, an explosion of a propane tank problem,” chamber president Terri Kinder said March 30. “So, we just figured maybe we should Kaiman hold off a little bit before we do that one again.” Kinder said the chamber was brainstorming ideas for a spring event that won’t be reliant on good weather. Nixing the festival freed staff to promote the organization’s annual golf tournament and the event’s attendance list is already longer than it was in 2021. A portion of the May 13 function’s proceeds will benefit the chamber’s scholarship fund. In addition to a best ball golf tournament, the event, hosted by IMG Academy Golf Club, includes a lunch, dinner buffet and raffle prizes. The cost to play is $135 per golfer or $500 per golfing foursome. For more, call the chamber at941-778-1541.

SAVE THE DATES April 28, business card exchange, Anna Maria Island Historical Society, Anna Maria. May 5, sunrise breakfast, AMI Beach Cafe, Holmes Beach. May 12, luncheon, Olympic Cafe, Bradenton. May 13, 23rd Annual Golf Tournament, IMG Academy Golf Club, Bradenton. Info, RSVP: 941-778-154, info@amichamber.org.

A Jan. 1 aerial photo of “The Tiki” property, comprising one of the largest privately owned stretches of beachfront in Holmes Beach. The $28.5 million multi-unit property — owned by island businessman Shawn Kaleta — went on the market March 30. islander Photo: courtesy AMi locals

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since it opened in July 2020. The 123-room hotel on Perico Island — across Manatee Avenue from the Neal Preserve and adjacent to Harbour Isle Marina — markets itself to naturelovers and fishing groups. Visitors interested in getting some exercise while exploring the island, only a mile from the resort, 12324 Manatee Ave., Bradenton, can rent bikes from the hotel concierge. Hotel leadership is marketing to business travelers with a “Business in Paradise” discount, director of sales Andrew Wright told The Islander in an April 5 Be their guest … And join the approximately 60,000 people who email. The resort offers visitors several advantages over have stayed at the Compass Hotel by Margaritaville vacation rentals on the island, Wright said. The hotel has no minimum stay, complimentary ARCHIMEDES breakfast and boasts amenities not found at many of 30+ YEARS EXPERIENCE No Money Down the island properties, including two dining options and Reliable On Time Every Time bars on-site and an adjacent marina. SERVICES, LLC For more information, call 941-741-9700 or visit 30+years ✔ ConcreteExperience repair, tear-outs ✔ Pressure cleaning, mobile compasshotel.com. homes, cleaning gutters

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Spring cleaning? What about cleaning your indoor coil?

Recently, we’ve heard/seen advertisements regarding indoor AC coil cleaning with every routine maintenance. But the “cleaner” used 99% of the time is a disinfectant that does absolutely nothing for system performance or mold remediation. Most manufacturers recommend indoor coils be cleaned only when necessary due to the corrosiveness of the chemicals required. Some manufacturers will not even recommend a cleaning due to the damage that will occur. In a situation where mold, mildew and other VOCs are an issue, cleaning the indoor coil will NOT give you relief or a 100% clean bill of health for your system. (Max 60-80% clean is the best possible outcome.) The only way to get a clean, efficient system after maintenance abuse is to replace the indoor coil.

out of seeing the buoyant marine mammals on sightseeing tours, sandbar hopping trips, Egmont Key visits and sunset cruises. “Dolphin are more acrobatic but everybody loves to see a manatee,” Stephens said. Island Pearl Excursions, headquartered at the Bradenton Beach Marina, has operated on the island for 11 years. Stephens and his team pilot four vessels, enhancing the customer experience by matching the optimal boat to each trip. The outfit can accommodate groups up to 49 people on one boat — or 100 on multiple boats — and frequently hosts wedding parties, family reunions and memorial services. For more information, call 941-780-8010 or visit islandpearlexcursions.com. Tiki for the taking “The Tiki,” a luxurious Gulffront home in Holmes Beach, went on the market March 30. The asking price for the 10-bedroom, eight-bathroom multi-story residence is $28.5 million. The home, 102 48th St., is owned by island businessman Shawn Kaleta and listed through his real estate agency, Locals Realty Group. Manatee County real estate sales record-holder Jessica Adair is the managing broker. Amenities include a tiki bar — equipped with electricity, TVs, a sound system, lights and an ice machine — that seats 20 people and a heated pool and spa. In 2016, the residence was used to film interviews for an episode of “Dateline NBC” entitled “Anna Maria Island: A Place on the Sand,” which chronicles Sabine Musil-Buehler’s murder. For more information, visit localsrealtygroup. com.

Manatee, ho! Sea cow sightings are increasing as the waters around the island heat up, according to Island Pearl Excursions owner Jeff Stephens. “We saw several on today’s trips,” he said April 5. “Manatee is the main species that comes and goes with the cold water.” The 15-year charter captain’s customers get a kick And as always… …Got biz news? Contact Kane Kaiman at kane@ islander.org or call The Islander office at 941-778DAILY/WEEKLY/MONTHLY SCHEDULED SERVICE 7978.

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April 13, 2022 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 27 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Community center finances slide, but remain in the black through February By Ryan Paice Islander Reporter

The start of 2022 was less a boost to the Center of Anna Maria Island as the end of 2021. The community center was $193,951.72 in the black through December but funding dropped $100,478.68 since the calendar year’s end to more than half the nonprofit’s net revenue for 2021-22, according to a financial report. The center was $93,473.04 in the black through February. The drop marks a shift in momentum for the center, which recorded one of its most successful months in recent memory in December, when it raised $139,759, thanks to aggressive fundraising. The nonprofit recorded losses of $28,687.32 and $71,791.36 in January and February. The recent losses come as a result of a drop in program and fundraising revenues, while costs remained consistent. The center recorded $111,424.25 in program revenue in December 2021 — its highest figure in a month so far this fiscal year. In January, program revenue dropped to $80,410.50. While it amounts to a $31,013.75 decrease from the previous month, the figure is the second-best the nonprofit has recorded this year. However, program revenue decreased by $24,305.50 in February, to $56,105. That figure is almost half what the center recorded in December, while expenses increased from $26,326.26 to $29,980.14. The nonprofit’s fundraising results over January and February show a similar trend: a drop in revenue. The center had its second-best fundraising month of the year in December, which featured the annual fundraising campaign and a concert by the Wailers to start a new season of Bradenton Area Gulf Island Concerts. It raised $232,178.82 and spent $123,026, finish-

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ing with $109,152.82 in fundraising income for the month. The nonprofit recorded $53,236.59 in fundraising revenue in January, the third-lowest figure it has recorded this fiscal year, and $85,739.71 in fundraising costs — a $32,503.12 deficit. Then, in February, fundraising revenue increased to $74,277.02 while costs also increased to $123.092.93 — the highest figure for a single month so far this year — for a $48,815.91 deficit. The center’s fundraising efforts appear to be waning in 2022. A concert series ended April 2 with the Felix Cavaliere’s Rascals show and the annual tour of homes was not scheduled, leaving the center’s major events calendar blank for the upcoming months. Culhane wrote in an April 9 email to The Islander that the center’s annual home tour, which features tours of four-five homes for a fee, was replaced this year with a March wine tasting due to budgetary limi-

tations. He added that the wine tasting was more profitable than most home tours, but didn’t give a total. It’s unclear how much the center raised with the concerts since the nonprofit — despite numerous requests — has yet to provide income for the events. The Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau, an entity of the Manatee County Tourist Development Council, previously agreed to sponsor up to four concerts for $100,000, and had paid $25,000 through Feb. 10. It’s unclear when the county will pay the promised funds or if there will be for a fifth concert. It’s not all that bad, though. Despite its losses, the center’s $93.473.04 net revenue through February is a large improvement over last year, when it was $92,508 in the red. The figure also dwarfs the nonprofit’s budgeted figure, since it projected to be $49,479 in the red through February.

Who bakes the birthday cake? To celebrate the shop’s one-year anniversary, Breezy Bakery owners Bri “Breezy” Suzano, with scissors, Travis Roy and their infant son, Ocean, right, host the Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce for a ribboncutting ceremony April 9. Chamber leaders and bakery staff assembled outside the establishment, 11904 Cortez Road W., Cortez, for the celebration. Islander Photo: Courtesy AMICofC

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Page 28 THE ISLANDER | islander.org APril 13, 2022 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

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

ITEMS FOR SALE Continued

KIDS FOR HIRE Continued

WHiTe WicKer DeSK and chair. Harvey link lexington, glass-top. island-style. $300. 708567-2120.

ANTiQue PArTNer DeSK: All wood, $500. inquire at The islander office, 315 58th St. Suite J, Holmes Beach. 941-778-7978.

free: PoWer recliNer, twin platform bed, has storage drawers and clean mattress. 941705-2757. Text please.

ANTiQue office cHAirS: Perfect for eclectic dining set. circa 1950 from Anna Maria city Hall. inquire at The islander newspaper, 315 58th St. Suite J, Holmes Beach. 941-778-7978.

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.

DiNeTTe: 36 x 60 glASS-top table, six chairs with three matching bar stools. Metal tile design. $299. 608-438-4441. BroWN leATHer SofA. Perfect condition. recliners both sides. $300. 5 x 8 new area rug. 331-330-0563. ANTiQue BABY cArriAge: Wood and wicker. Proceeds benefit Moonracer Animal rescue. email for photos: moonraceranimalrescue@ gmail.com. More ads = more readers in The islander.

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PETS HelP reScueD PeTS! Volunteer, foster, computer help needed! Moonracer Animal rescue. email: moonraceranimalrescue@gmail.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. FISHING liVe PiNfiSH-SHiNerS delivery available. 941-705-1956, text only. HELP WANTED

SERVICES NeeD A riDe to airports? Tampa $65, St. Pete, $55, Sarasota, $30. gary, 863-409-5875. gvoness80@gmail.com. iS Your HoMe or office in need of some cleaning? Well, i’m your girl! local, reliable, professional! Please, give me a call or text, 941-773 -0461. cleANiNg: VAcATioN, coNSTrucTioN, residential, commercial and windows. licensed and insured. 941-744-7983. PreSSure WASHiNg, PAVer sealing, driveway, roof, fence, pool area. Also, window cleaning. licensed and insured. 941-565-3931. BicYcle rePAirS: Just4fun at 5358 gulf Drive can do most any bicycle repair at a reasonable cost. Pickup and delivery available. 941-8967884.

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AdoptA-Pet

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

HolMeS BeAcH reTireD couple seeks active engaging household help. cooking breakfast, light housekeeping, trips to costco and exciting restaurants for lunch. Must have own transportation. exceptional pay for right person. 313-477-8662. cAregiVerS AND HoMe Health Aides needed for clients on Anna Maria and lBK. Must be 21 and able to pass background screenings. Paid training provided. contact Home instead at 941739-3050 or go to https://www.homeinstead. com/location/533/home-care-jobs/ rePorTer WANTeD: Print media, newspaper experience required. Apply via email with letter of interest to news@islander.org.

Bobby needs YOU!

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

KIDS FOR HIRE N e e D A N A D u lT n i g h t o u t ? c a l l M a t y ’s Babysitting Services. i’m 16, love kids and have lots of experience. references upon request. 618-977-9630. DePeNDABle, reSPoNSiBle, fuN babysitter for hire. 13 years old, island local. Available in June. 941-526-9090.

coMPANioN/HoMeMAKer: Honest and reliable offering help with running errands, grocery shopping, house sitting, pet and plant care, light cooking/cleaning, transportation. references available and licensed. call Sherri, 941-592-4969. coNcreTe fuSioN: #1 in crack repair, sidewalks, driveways. Don’t replace 95 percent of good concrete if only five percent is cracked. free estimates. fully insured. call Bobby, 319693-8800 or 941-374-7670. BuffAluAu (TM). BeST PArTieS. contact 716560-7841 or buffaluau@gmail.com for details. or visit buffaluau.com. YAY! We Are open for business to serve our Seniors with dignity, compassion and our hearts. Here at Knowledgeable care, llc we strive to accommodate with the assistance you may need. You and your family are important to us, so please don’t hesitate to call. 23-plus years. Thank you, Tammy, owner. Phone, 941-567-8499. APi’S DrYWAll rePAir: i look forward to servicing your drywall repair needs. call 941-5248067 to schedule an appointment. HANDYMAN AND cleANiNg services. Move-ins and outs. Affordable. call fred, 941-356-1456. geT MArrieD oN the beach: American Mobile Weddings. Wedding officiant. call 941-2536649.