The Islander Newspaper E-Edition: Wednesday, April. 24, 2024

astheworldterns 6

6th penny sought for tourist tax. 3

Q&A 042424 3

BB public works boss takes new post. 4

AM charter changes proposed. 5

Opinions 6

10-30 YEARS AGO

looking back. 7

Center funding in black. 8

Arbor Day plans. 9

Save the date. 10-11

What’s up on AMi? 10-11

AMe principal retiring. 12

Gathering. 14

Obituaries 15

Happenings Where’s Tuna Street? 16-17

RoadWatch 18

Cops & Courts 20-21

NYT puzzle. 20

Sports news. 24

Anglers migrate to Gulf. 25

NESTING NOTES 26

Turtle watch launch.

Treemendous benefits. 27

CLASSIFIEDS. 28-29

Isl Biz: 30 Chamber calendar.

PropertyWatch. 30

explore The islander archive dating to 1992 at ufdc.ufl.edu.

Tourist council recommends 3rd ferry boat

By lisa neff islander editor

“We’re gonna need a bigger boat,” echoed April 15 in the Manatee County commission chambers in Bradenton.

The county tourist development council, the board that advises the commission on tourism-related funding and projects, was discussing the Gulf Islands Ferry service between Bradenton and Anna Maria Island that launched in January with two custom

boats and agreed a third boat is needed.

Council members also unanimously agreed they want to fund a boat with an enclosed cabin with tourist development tax dollars if the Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau can’t secure grant money.

The service the county launched Jan. 12 employs two 50-foot open catamarans, each capable of carrying 48 passengers.

The service operates Wednesday-Sunday

Welcome? Or not so welcome

A Jeep driven by Bradenton/ohio snowbird Susan reedy rests April 18 inside Gypsea Tides Beach Boutique, 5602 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, after crashing through the boutique’s south window and into a shared wall with reed Fitness & physical Therapy. Three people were treated for injuries, according to HBpD Chief Bill Tokajer. reedy was charged with careless driving. For more on this crash and a second storevehicle crash April 20, see page 5. islander

with stops at the day dock on the riverfront in downtown Bradenton, the Anna Maria City Pier in Anna Maria and the Bridge Street Pier in Bradenton Beach.

“We see that water taxi every day and it’s full coming and going,” said Bradenton Mayor Gene Brown, a TDC member who hailed the service as an economic boost.

“The businesses are really feeling it,” Brown said, referring to increased foot traf-

BIEO talks mangrove enforcement, cooperation

By ryan paice islander reporter

New seeds may have been planted in island officials’ discussions about reclaiming authority of mangrove enforcement from the state.

Anna Maria Island and Longboat Key officials gathered April 17 for a Coalition of Barrier Island Elected Officials meeting to discuss mangrove regulation and enforcement across the four municipalities.

Mangroves provide environmental benefits, such as offering a unique ecosystem for marine life, decreasing land erosion and improving nearshore water quality.

Trimming and removal of the vegetation is regulated by state law and enforced by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection.

However, the DEP can delegate authority over mangroves to qualified local governments and municipalities, effectively handing off the regulation and enforcement of

mangroves.

Only seven local governments across the state have been delegated such authority, including Miami-Dade, Broward, Hillsborough, Pinellas and Sarasota counties, as well as the town of Juniper Island and the city of Sanibel.

Some island officials have been calling for the barrier island municipalities to explore taking the same authority following the December 2023 removal of more than 100 feet of shoreline mangroves at 111 Gull Drive, Anna Maria.

The CBIEO consists of representatives from Anna Maria Island’s three cities and the town of Longboat Key.

Attendees of the April 17 meeting included Anna Maria Mayor Dan Murphy, Bradenton Beach Mayor John Chappie, Holmes Beach Mayor Judy Titsworth and Longboat Key Mayor Ken Schneier and town manager Howard Tipton.

Abbey Tyrna, executive director of

Sarasota-based Suncoast Waterkeeper, also attended the meeting and provided an educational presentation on mangroves.

She stressed the importance of preserving mangroves due to their unique ecological value in the face of modern threats from development.

Tyrna said about 50% of the country’s wetlands had been lost between 2009 and 2019 and what remains hangs in peril. She said Suncoast Waterkeeper had received reports of at least 18 violations of overtrimming or removing mangroves over the past year alone.

She added that the state had inadequately addressed many of those violations.

Tyrna said local authorities could better preserve mangroves within their municipalities by reclaiming authority from the state and implementing more restrictive measures.

State law provides, “A delegated local Turn To Mangroves, pAGe 8

people at the Gypsea Tides Beach Boutique in Holmes Beach react to a Jeep that minutes earlier crashed through a window into the shop. islander photo: Mike Deal

photo: Courtesy HBpD

Bridge Street. The mayor also cheered the ferry as alternative transportation that reduces automobile traffic between the mainland and the island.

“Traffic is probably the biggest thing we talk about every day,” he said.

The ferry boats take about 180 automobiles off the road per service day, according to Elliott Falcione, executive director of the BACVB.

The estimate is based on the ferry boats moving 360 passengers per day.

“That’s a start, that’s a real start,” said TDC member Ed Chiles, an island businessperson who also serves on the Bradenton Beach Community Redevelopment Agency.

Chiles said the current operation proves the concept works but he wants to see an expansion.

“We’re gonna need a bigger boat,” Chiles said. “And a drier boat.”

Since mid-January, wind, rain and “chop” or rough surf have forced the suspension of service on 22 days, according to Falcione.

“That’s 7,000 passengers who couldn’t get on the ferry,” he said.

A third boat would be enclosed, “a little bit faster” and bigger, Falcione said.

The new boat — estimated to cost $2.8 million with a capacity to carry 150 passengers — would operate between Bradenton and Anna Maria while the catamarans would operate in the Intracoastal Waterway between Anna Maria and Bradenton Beach.

“Getting that third ferry boat is paramount to the future,” Falcione said.

Longer term, plans involve:

• Expanding the ferry service to seven days a week, possibly in 2025;

• Instituting a workforce program;

• Establishing stops on Longboat Key and in Palmetto;

• Inspiring a Sarasota operation, allowing people to travel by boat and transit to the airport, which Chiles said would be “world-class.”

• Adding another pontoon boat to the fleet.

The recommendation for a third boat likely will go before the county commission this spring.

If funded, it could take a year to put another boat on the water.

In the meantime, the BACVB is investing in promotional ponchos.

“We’re going Niagara Falls,” Falcione said.

The next TDC meeting will be at 9:30 a.m. Monday, June 10, at the Center of Anna Maria Island, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria.

Know your TDCs

The tourist development council recommends to county commissioners how to spend the tourist development tax — the 5% tax collected on overnight rent-

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▼ Live Maine Lobster Thursdays, plus Happy Hour all nite in the lounge.

people board a ferry April 18 at Anna Maria City pier in Anna Maria, one of three stops on the Manatee County BACVB service operating Wednesday-Sunday between the mainland and the island. The county is considering adding a third boat in 2025, as well as making the service a daily operation.

als of six months or less.

TDT spending must boost and develop tourism.

TDC members include County Commissioner Ray Turner as chair, Bradenton Mayor Gene Brown, Palmetto Mayor Shirley Bryant, hoteliers Jiten Patel, Ed Chiles, Eric Cairns and Rahul Patel and interested citizens Dave Wick and Norma Kennedy.

About the ferry

For more information about the Gulf Islands Ferry, including ticket details, go online to www. gulfcoastwatertaxi.com.

The ferry service operates Wednesday-Sunday between Bradenton and Anna Maria Island.

The first ferry from Bradenton to Anna Maria departs from the day dock on the riverfront at 10 a.m. The last ferry from Bradenton Beach departs from the Historic Bridge Street Pier at 9:30 p.m.

The phone number for the service is 941-3572587.

Falcione Chiles Brown

islander photo: lisa neff

TDC seeks 6th penny for bed tax revenue

By lisa neff islander editor

Another penny under the pillow?

The Manatee County Tourist Development Council unanimously agreed in a voice vote April 15 to recommend the county commission add a sixth cent to the resort tax.

The commission was expected to consider the recommendation during a 9 a.m. meeting Tuesday, April 23, after The Islander went to press.

The resort tax — also known as the bed tax or tourist development tax — is collected on overnight accommodations of six months or less, including vacation rentals and hotel rooms.

Manatee County first enacted the tax in 1980 and has previously raised the collection figure, with the most recent bump in 2009.

Based on the county’s 2023 tourist tax revenues, Manatee meets criteria to be a high tourism-impact county eligible for an additional 1% tourist tax.

Florida counties can collect a sixth cent of tour-

Measuring Manatee tourism

The estimated number of visitors to Manatee County in February outpaced the number in 2023 — 93,300 in February 2024 and 88,900 in February 2023, according to Anne Wittine, director of quantitative research for Research Data Services.

The economic impact of tourism also was higher — $227,622,800 in February 2024 compared with $214,439,600 in February 2023 — said Wittine, who presented a report April 15 to the Manatee County Tourist Development Council.

However, room nights for February 2024 were down 1.6% from February 2023.

How can impact dollars be higher and room nights be lower? One explanation is accommodations cost more — the average room rate in February 2024 was $275.52 compared to $265.02 in February 2023.

— lisa neff

ist tax — the maximum allowed — once they pass the threshold of $30 million a year in collected bed taxes. Hillsborough, Pinellas and Sarasota counties levy 6%.

Manatee collected $30,090,618 in tourist tax revenues in the calendar year 2023. Also, according to the Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau, the county generated $625,890,749 in rental revenues.

A penny increase in the tax would generate another $6 million a year.

State law requires tourist tax revenues be used for tourism-related programs and projects.

Elliott Falcione, executive director of the BACVB, pitched the penny increase to the TDC, highlighting capital improvements and projects funded with tourist tax dollars that benefit visitors but also residents, including beach renourishment, ferry service, pier reconstruction, airport expansion, preserve and park enhancements, cultural and heritage centers.

“We do not plan to ask for marketing dollars” from the sixth penny, Falcione said.

The vote to recommend the tax bump was unanimous.

TDC chair Ray Turner called the increase “insig-

Q&A

042424

By lisa neff

The Islander poll

Last week’s question

What’s your favorite season on AMi?

3%. Tourist season.

56%. Off-season.

4%. Sea turtle nesting season.

37%. Every season.

This week’s question

Arbor Day is April 26. When’s the last time you planted a tree?

A. This past year.

B. In the past 10 years.

C. Some time ago.

D. Never.

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

nificant for visitors.”

“It’ll be a good move. It’ll be seamless,” said Turner, county commissioner for District 5.

If the commission approves a tax increase, the collection could begin Aug. 1.

In addition to the bed tax, there is a 7% sales tax collected on short-term accommodations.

Peeking at pelicans on the pier

Juniper Tighe, 2, of new Jersey, points to a loafing pelican April 10 from the arms of her father, Brendan, and alongside her brother, oliver, 5, while walking the Anna Maria City pier during a visit to the island. islander

photo: ryan paice

BB public works director takes new post

Bradenton Beach public works director Tom Woodard is bound for Bedford, Virginia, and a new job, according to an April 15 news release from the town.

The release welcomed Woodard as Bedford’s new public works director. He’ll begin his new post June 1.

Woodard, a Florida native, worked for Manatee County for eight years as a traffic management supervisor before taking a job in public works for Bradenton Beach.

He has served the Bradenton Beach community since November 2004.

well-qualified candidates for this position,” Bedford town manager Bart Warner said in the release.

“Tom’s extensive experience and commitment to employee retention and development, along with his palpable enthusiasm for joining our community made him stand out,” Warner added.

The Islander reached out April 19 to Bradenton Beach Mayor John Chappie for comment on the announcement.

Chappie declined.

— robert Anderson Woodard

“We were fortunate to attract a large pool of very

Likewise, Police Chief John Cosby had no comment April 19 on Woodard leaving the city.

Woodard did not respond to Islander calls April 18 and April 19 by press time April 22.

County commissioner appointed elections supervisor

James Satcher, a Republican political figure, took an oath April 16 to serve as Manatee County’s supervisor of elections during a ceremony at the Manatee County Judicial Center in Bradenton.

Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis appointed Satcher to the position April 12.

A news release from the governor’s offi ce said Satcher, who resides in Ellenton and is a minister, is “active in his community” and has “led a successful nonprofit with more than two decades of ministry.”

As a member of Manatee County Board of Commissioners, Satcher has pursued a right-wing agenda on abortion access, library policy, guns, immigration and more.

On social media, he’s demonstrated strong support for former President Donald J. Trump.

Satcher has no experience in supervising elections.

He succeeds Mike Bennett, who resigned from the post effective March 1.

Bennett, in a letter to the governor, recommended the appointment of his longtime deputy, Scott Far-

rington, who also asked DeSantis for an appointment.

Bennett wrote, “I cannot believe there is a better, more accomplished or more knowledgeable person than Scott to fill this position.”

Bennett’s term expires this fall and voters will decide who holds the supervisor’s post in November.

As of April 18, the supervisor of elections site at votemanatee.com only showed Farrington as an active candidate.

Satcher, as of April 18, had resigned his commission seat but not made clear whether he would run for supervisor of elections or run again for commissioner.

Republicans in the August primary for the District 1 seat include Keith Green and Carol Ann Felts and, as of April 18, Satcher, according to votemanatee.com.

Democrat Glenn Pearson and independent Jen Hamey also are running for the seat.

DeSantis is expected to appoint a Republican to hold the seat until Election Day.

— lisa neff

Coquina Beach Market

Wednesday, April 24th

Friday, April 26th

Sunday, April 28th 10AM - 4PM

Follow us on Face Book and receive daily vendor roster, weather cancellations or marked closure days.

www.coquinabeachmarket.org

941 -840-0789

https://www.facebook.com/CoquinaBeachMarket

Here is what you will find at our Market: jewelry, candles, fresh lemonade, women’s apparel, custom & creative artwork, freezedried candy, fresh baked goods, pet items, home décor, metal artwork, stuffed turtles, sunglasses, Celtic jewelry, caps, skin care products, water totes & bags, t-shirts, guacamole, windchimes, bracelets, eco friendly bug spray, aloe vera lotions, jerky, fresh coconut drink, licorice, pearl jewelry, toys and MORE.

Music 11AM - 2PM

Wed (Mike Sales)

Fri (Chuck Davis)

Sun (Zack Pomerleau)

James Satcher, with wife Monica, takes the oath of office April 16 as Manatee County’s supervisor of elections before Judge Gilbert Smith. islander photo: Courtesy Jim Kolenda

Jeep shatters window, accelerates into store, 3 injured

By Ryan Paice Islander Reporter

Three people were hospitalized with serious injuries following an April 18 motor vehicle crash in Holmes Beach.

A woman driving a Jeep with Ohio plates crashed that day through the south-facing window of Gypsea Tides Beach Boutique, 5602 Marina Drive, and into the boutique before smashing the back wall, a shared wall with Reed Fitness & Physical Therapy.

The crash left the boutique’s owner, Rexann Cecil, and two patrons hospitalized with “serious injuries,” including head trauma and broken bones, according to Holmes Beach Police Chief Bill Tokajer. He told the Islander April 20 that the three injured people had been released.

Similar crash occurs April 20 directly across the street at Rader’s Reef

A West Manatee Fire Rescue firefighter makes his way through heavy smoke around a Dodge van that crashed April 20 into Rader’s Reef, 5508 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. HBPD identified Bradenton resident Remy Gonzalez, 66, as the driver, saying he lost control of his vehicle for an unknown reason. The crash caused a fire and trapped one person inside. WMFR extinguished the fire and extracted Gonzalez and an injured person, who were taken to a local hospital. There were no criminal charges for the crash as of April 22, according to HBPD Chief Bill Tokajer. The store is at the corner of Marina Drive and 56th Street, across the street from Gypsea Tides, the site of an April 18 crash. Islander

Mike Deal

Plan now for the next holiday!

Is your business ready to make the most of 2024? Improve your odds of success with Islander newspaper readers looking to shop and dine, seeking indoor and outdoor fun, and a place to stay for their next visit. For ad info, call or text 941778-7978.

Tokajer said the motorist, Susan Reedy, born in 1955, and a snowbird with residences in Bradenton and Ohio, had been parking in a marked space on the south side of the building to go shopping when the vehicle “lunged forward.”

She told HBPD she recently had work done on her vehicle’s brakes.

Police towed the vehicle to a secure facility to further investigate the crash as operator error or mechanical fault, according to Tokajer.

Police also issued a citation to the motorist for careless driving.

The boutique’s broken window was boarded up by April 19, but the business had yet to reopen following the crash.

The crash also left the boutique’s shared wall with Reed Fitness in fragments.

An April 19 post on the boutique’s Facebook page read, in part, “I’m so thankful for everyone’s prayers and support, I have the best team, husband, family and friends who spent the whole day cleaning the store and taking care of me. I am recovering at home and I hope to have the store back open early to mid next week.”

Tokajer told The Islander in an April 20 phone call that it was one of the “most horrific” crash he has witnessed. He said he had observed evidence of the crash — a store surveillance video — that showed the

Jeep accelerated as it went through the window. Bonner Joy contributed to this report.

3rd crash, van careens into curb, guard rail

Bradenton resident Steven Small, 69, was driving April 21 southbound on Marina Drive in Holmes Beach when he suffered a medical event and crashed into the curb at the intersection for Marina with Gulf Drive. Small was rushed to a local hospital, according to Holmes Beach Police Chief Bill Tokajer. The crash resulted in damage to the railing and a pedestrian crossing signal at the intersection. Islander

Courtesy Dhaval Patel

A Jeep comes to a rest April 18 in Gypsea Tides Beach Boutique facing an entry door and a shared wall with Reed Fitness & Physical Therapy. Islander

Photo: Toni Lyon

Photo:

Photo:

Thanks to the band

I didn’t really know how famous they were. I didn’t care. I definitely was not then, and not now, impressed with celebrities.

I was new to Florida and Southern rock music in the 1970s and more familiar with blues and reggae.

I was pleased to see Tom Waits and Leon Redbone — after attending their show at the Van Wezel hall in Sarasota — at the Oar House. And partner/friend/ photographer Paul Roat got some cool photos.

For me, being friends with the Toler brothers’ wives, and Frankie and Dan, too, brought me closer to the band, but I still didn’t want to really know them.

It was great to see them play and awesome to hear Gregg Allman on guitar in my kitchen — he lived a stone’s throw from my house back then and son Elijah Blue caught the school bus with my kids.

Gregg stopped one day at my kids’ soccer fundraiser — a car wash — and gave the team $100 not to wash his Corvette.

It was all part of the island flavors back then — from the old Stumble Inn bar in Holmes Beach to the Beach Lounge on Bridge Street and the Oar House in between. Everyone knew everyone.

And to think I was worried about moving to AMI from Illinois for fear I would only meet old folks.

Well, unlike all of my friends, I had two kids to raise and I eventually found a “real job” at the old Islander newspaper and then Clubhouse magazine — later to be named Sarasota magazine. And I founded an advertising agency with great clients and then. in 1992, started up a new Islander newspaper with the help of a great roster of friends.

But those days — the Allman Brothers days and the friendships and stories that grew out of the times — those are strong ties for me. And it seems there’s no one left to thank but David Reid, the Oar House bar owner, who gave us great times and great music.

And thankful I am to have had such good times.

As for the news of the day, we have a pretty bizarre pair of “drive-thrus” to mull over.

It started April 18, when a woman drove her Jeep directly through a large glass window into a boutique. Three people in the store were injured and Holmes Beach Police Chief Bill Tokajer said, after viewing surveillance camera video of the drive-thru, that it was the “most horrific” crash he’d ever witnessed.

Imagine my surprise — and everyone else’s —two days later when another driver lunged into the shell shop — directly opposite the first boutique.

Forget flying cars and self-driving vehicles.

Here comes slow and easy sea turtle season.

— Bonner Joy, news@islander.org

Thanks from AMIHS

Our Anna Maria Island Historical Society Heritage Day Festival March 26 was a wonderful, fun familyoriented celebration.

Festivalgoers enjoyed food and music as they strolled through the grounds at the museum in Anna Maria while vendors demonstrated and sold their arts and crafts.

The festival is our chance to thank the community for all the support so generously given throughout the year.

Thank you to the local businesses, sponsors and private donors whose support made this a successful fundraiser.

Thank you to the Anna Maria Island Privateers for bringing extra excitement, as they captured Anna Maria Mayor Dan Murphy and surprised the crowd with the capture of Holmes Beach Mayor Judy Titsworth.

Generous donations were received “bailing” the mayors out of jail with all the proceeds going to AMIHS.

And thank you to our very dedicated volunteers. Your service to the museum and the community helps make our three cities on this beautiful island a wonderful place to live and visit.

Sue George, Marion Harbin, Judy Hildman, Barbara Murphy, Carolyn Orshak, AMIHS festival committee chairs

Honoring their love

My wife and I would like to thank the people of the Holmes Beach public works department for the “Trees of Memory” sign recently installed at the boat ramp park at the end of 63rd Street.

Hurricane Idalia took down the old sign.

The new sign commemorates and states, “A tree has been planted in the city of Holmes Beach as a living memory for” 67 former Holmes Beach citizens and homeowners.

The memorial is important to the families of those recognized as it ties us to other generations that also loved Anna Maria.

Dave Barstow, Holmes Beach

people fish along Manatee Avenue/ State road 64 near the Anna Maria island Bridge in January 1973.

We’d love to mail you the news!

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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!

All along Manatee

ABoVe: An aerial photo dated 1980-85 shows palma Sola Bay — and the causeway that cuts through the bay on Manatee Avenue. islander photos: Courtesy Manatee County public library Services

leFT: A child, dressed for cool temps, prepares to fish along the palma Sola Causeway in the late 1960s. The child is not identified in the Manatee County library archives but the sportscar is an MG.

10, 20, 30 years ago

From the April 21, 1994, issue

• Island elected offi cials petitioned Democratic Gov. Lawton Chiles to strike from the state budget funds to replace the Anna Maria Island Bridge with a fixed, high bridge.

• Authorities closed Gulf Drive and Bridge Street and created a detour due to problems with the construction of the Bradenton Beach roundabout. Additional roundabouts were being discussed for Coquina Beach in the city, as well as the Manatee Public Beach in Holmes Beach.

From the April 21, 2004, issue

• West Manatee Fire Rescue investigators and the state fire marshal’s office declared that arson caused the fire that closed the Waterfront Restaurant in Anna Maria,

• An Illinois man died following a crash in Holmes Beach. The man was riding a bike when the crash with a vehicle occurred. A witness said he was attempting to run through a stop sign.

From the April 23, 2014, issue

• Holmes Beach Mayor Carmel Monti’s boat sank in the canal behind his home on Key Royale Drive despite efforts by the mayor and city employees to remove water with buckets.

• A home health aide was facing charges of abuse and neglect of an elderly person in Holmes Beach for allegedly failing to provide a man care and causing him pain.

• Bradenton Beach officials met to iron out wrinkles in a noise ordinance adopted earlier in the spring, specifically questions about where to take readings for open-air dining establishments.

— lisa neff

JoAnn and Charles lester.

longtime center supporter Charles lester died April XX. For almost 50 years, Mr. lester touched the lives of many Anna Maria island residents. The Center of Anna Maria island will greatly miss Chuck lester's jovial and smiling face at the upcoming holiday season’s 22nd annual lester Family Fun Day. The Center and the island community will be forever grateful for the lifetime support of Chuck and Joey lester. The lester’s created a legacy of giving on Anna Maria island and in Wisconsin, which is unparalleled. Their legacy will live on forever at the Center through the AMiCC endowment Fund, which was established through the generous support of Chuck and Joey lester’s unrivaled philanthropy.

Christopher Culhane executive Director

The Center of Anna Maria island

Center

By ryan paice islander reporter

has $26K

to the good and quarter to go in fiscal year

The Center of Anna Maria Island’s fiscal 2023-24 is three months away from ending.

And the margin between the nonprofit finishing in the black or in the red has grown slimmer since last December.

The nonprofit was $26,731.12 in the black through March, a sharp drop off from the $71,160.30 with which it finished 2023, according to a financial report.

The community center finished fiscal 2022-23 $257,887 in the red — the first time in six years the nonprofit failed to finished in the black — after falling $222,187.32 into the red over the first three months.

The nonprofit also fell into a financial hole in early fiscal 2023-24, which began July 1, 2023, but dug itself back into the black with a strong second quarter.

Nevertheless, January wiped out the center’s accumulated $71,160.30 in net income following a monthly loss of $72,866.51.

Much of that loss, $50,633.27, was due to capital expenses, but the nonprofit also lost $19,973.44 in January due to programming and operations.

The center has posted programming and operations

3 cities, 1 island

Carolyn orshak of the Anna Maria island Historical Society displays an “AMi — three unique cities, one island paradise” T-shirt April 13 at a demonstration for home rule at Manatee public Beach in Holmes Beach. orshak said the shirt — on sale at the AMiHS museum, 402 pine Ave., Anna Maria — lets people know the historical society serves each of the island cities. islander photo: robert Anderson

losses in eight out of nine months in fiscal 2023-24, reaching monthly losses up to $56,293.95.

Meanwhile, the nonprofit’s most successful month for programming — March — resulted in only $7,828.96 income before fundraising.

Overall, the community center has lost $230,317 from programming and operations this year, $6,266 better than the $236,563 it had lost through the same point last year.

Despite the hiccup in January, the center recovered with $18,309.95 net income in February and $10,127.38 in March, bringing it back into the black for fiscal 2023-24.

Overall, the center has made 13%, or $168,221, more this year in total revenue than it had through March of last year, while decreasing expenses by 5%, or about $75,000.

Regardless of the narrowing margin between finishing in the black or red, the nonprofit is miles ahead of where it was at the same point in fiscal 2022-23.

Through last March, the center was $216,846 in the red, a number it failed to recover from.

People can learn more about the nonprofit at its website, centerami.org, or a call to 941-778-1908.

government may impose stricter substantive standards than those of the department for the issuance of a permit authorized by this section; however, such regulations may not prohibit all mangrove trimming.”

But there are restrictions to what can be done and delegated local governments “may not directly or indirectly limit the use of exemptions in Sec. 403.9326.”

Tyrna highlighted how state law allows for the largely unmitigated removal of mangroves along canal systems but Sarasota County restricts such activity.

“Any mangrove along a canal system can be removed,” Tyrna said. “(Sarasota County) doesn’t allow mangroves to be removed along canals and, if they are, they have to be mitigated for or offset.”

“Now, more than ever, we need strong local policies that protect our native wetland systems,” she added.

Murphy said that the city of Anna Maria may be interested in seeking the DEP’s delegation of authority over mangroves cooperatively with the other island governments and CBIEO.

He argued the DEP was spread too thin and the local governments could better regulate and enforce mangrove trimming and removal activities.

“The scalping is not going to stop. It’s going to continue until we do something about it,” Murphy said.

Tipton said Longboat Key did not have the resources to handle the work, but they might be able to get the job done with a cooperative effort.

He said the town also had invited a DEP representative to visit the town to discuss the matter.

CBIEO members said they would continue discussing mangrove regulation and enforcement at the board’s future meetings.

Anna Maria Commissioner Charlie Salem, who attended the meeting, told The Islander April 17 that he left feeling “super encouraged” by the presentation.

He said that, heading into the meeting, one of the main concerns was whether a delegated local government could only uphold state law, or if it could craft its own regulations.

“I was getting kind of mixed signals about if there was more authority we could get from this or not,” Salem said. “I’d like to find out in more detail what Sarasota was able to do. … But it sounds like, on some level, that this allows you to go further and tailor it more to the needs of your community, which would be great.”

The next CBIEO meeting was not scheduled as of April 19.

Mangroves ConTinueD FroM pAGe 1

Cleanup volunteers pose April 13 outside the community center, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria, before heading out to clean the beach. The center’s next beach cleanup will be 9-11 a.m. Saturday, May 4. islander photo: Courtesy CofAMi

BB ScenicWAVES prepares National Arbor Day celebration

By robert Anderson islander reporter Bradenton Beach ScenicWAVES

has a project that’s shovel ready.

The group completed plans April 17 for a National Arbor Day celebration at 10 a.m. Friday, April 26, at the Annie Silver Community Center, 103 23rd St. N. ScenicWAVES member Bruce Butler, also interim president of the center board, said he would address celebration attendees about the roles of ScenicWAVES and the center in the community.

Butler said center volunteers would serve bratwurst and coffee.

A ribbon-cutting with the Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce and the planting of landscaping at the center will be the highlights of the day. The planting, funded with a $250 grant from the Anna Maria Island Garden Club, includes two silver buttonwoods and a thatch palm.

ScenicWAVES vice chair Ingrid McClellan said a forester with the Florida Forest Service will speak about the native trees being planted.

In related news, McClellan said ScenicWAVES will update the Tree City USA signs at Herb Dolan and Katie Pierola Sunset parks, as well as at city hall, with a sticker marking 13 years of participation in the program.

Tree City provides communities with a four-step framework to maintain and grow tree canopy, including:

• Maintaining a tree board or department;

• Having a community tree ordinance;

• Spending at least $2 per capita on urban forestry;

• Celebrating National Arbor Day.

City commissioners greenlighted the April 26 celebration during an April 4 meeting at city hall.

In other matters, at the April 17 meeting:

• ScenicWAVES discussed the distribution of bicycle route maps created by the committee.

McClellan said 2,500 maps, paid for by the Anna Maria Island Moose Lodge, depict a bicycling route and points of interest along the route, which travels along the Gulf Drive scenic highway east on Fifth Street South, north along Bay Drive South around the Cortez Bridge, then continuing along Gulf Drive.

People interested in cycling the route can get a map at city hall, 107 Gulf Drive N.; Tingley Library, 111 Second Street N.; Anna Maria Island Moose Lodge, 110 Gulf Drive S.; and the Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce, 5313 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach.

• Anna Maria Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring executive director Kristen Mazzarella helped

committee members identify birds and marine life for educational signage to be installed at John Chappie Park, 1400 Gulf Drive N.; Jan Vosburgh Park across from city hall; the Historic Bridge Street Pier, 200 Bridge St.; and Katie Pierola Sunset Park, 2212 Gulf Drive N.

The committee received a $5,000 grant from the Tampa Bay Estuary Program to create the signage. Mazzarella said she would reach out to Wildlife Inc. in Bradenton Beach for help in assembling the

Holmes Beach adding tree to city field for Arbor Day

The city of Holmes Beach will hold a ceremony and plant a D.D. Blanchard magnolia tree to recognize National Arbor Day at 9 a.m. Friday, April 26.

The celebration will be north of the soccer fi eld at city fi eld, between 59th Street, Flotilla Drive and 62nd Street, according to digital and media strategist Matt McDonough.

National Arbor Day is held annually on the last Friday in April and celebrates trees and the roles they play in ecologies across the world.

— ryan paice

lists, which she said would be ready before May 15.

The next ScenicWAVES meeting will be 1 p.m., Wednesday, May 15, at city hall, 107 Gulf Drive N.

About ScenicWAVES

The ScenicWAVES Partnership Committee is an advisory committee that represents the Bradenton Beach Scenic Highway Corridor Management Entity and promotes awareness of the city-wide tree canopy and landscaping education.

Anna Maria sets Arbor Day planting

The city of Anna Maria will celebrate National Arbor Day at 8:30 a.m. Friday, April 26, by planting a tree in Villa Rosa Park, 311 S. Bay Blvd.

National Arbor Day is held annually on the last Friday in April and celebrates trees and the roles they play in ecologies across the world.

Mayor Dan Murphy wrote in an April 17 text message to The Islander that he would be out of town and unable to attend the event.

Vice Mayor Mark Short will officiate the ceremony. — ryan paice

Anna Maria island Moose lodge administrator Byron Dalton Sr., left, thanks Bradenton Beach ScenicWAVeS for creating a city bicycle route map. The lodge provided a grant to cover printing costs for the map. islander photo: robert Anderson

Compiled by lisa neff, calendar@islander.org

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT ON AMI

Friday, April 26

2 p.m. — Rock garden painting, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341.

ONGOING ON AMI

Throughout April, Kathy Lee Patterson exhibit, Artists’ Guild Gallery, 5414 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-7786694.

OFF AMI

Wednesday, April 24

7 p.m. — “Ancient Skies: Mayan Astronomy,” the Bishop Museum, 201 10th St. W., Bradenton. Fee applies. Information: 941-746-4131.

Friday, April 26

6-8 p.m. — Music in the Park concert with Kristopher James, Riverwalk Pavilion at Rossi Park, 452 Third Ave. W., Bradenton, Bradenton. Information: 941-301-8445.

ONGOING OFF AMI

Throughout April, “Venues Remembered” exhibit by Marg Williamson, Island Gallery and Studios, 456 Old Main St., Bradenton. Information: 941-778-6648.

Through April 28, “Dali and the Impressionists,” the Dali Museum, 1 Dali Blvd., St. Petersburg. Fee applies. Information: 727-823-3767.

Through April 28, the Bishop Museum of Science and Nature’s “Bird Photographer of the Year,” 201 10th St. W., Bradenton. Fee applies. Information: 941-746-4131.

Through June 23, “Mountains of the Mind: Scholars’ Rocks from China and Beyond” exhibit, the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, 5401 Bay Shore Road, Sarasota. Fee applies. Information: 941-360-7390.

Turtle watch to talk turtles

Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring will resume weekly Turtle Talks for 2024 on May 7.

The group, which monitors island beaches to document and collect data on sea turtle nesting May-October, will present Turtle Talks at 10 a.m. Tuesdays at Holmes Beach City Hall, 5801 Marina Drive. The talks are open to the public and free to attend.

For more, go to islandturtlewatch.com, email info@islandturtlewatch.com or call 941-3018434.

4415 119th St. W., Cortez. Information: floridamaritimemuseum. org.

SAVE THE DATES

May 2-12, Island Players’ “The Woman in Black,” Anna Maria.

May 3, Theater in the Park, Bradenton.

May 10, Theater in the Park, Bradenton.

May 16, Manatee Music Series concert with Paul Fournier, Bradenton.

MARKETS & SALES

ONGOING ON AMI

Most Wednesdays, Fridays, Sundays, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Coquina Beach Market, Coquina Beach, Bradenton Beach. Information: 941840-0789, coquinabeachmarket.org.

Tuesdays, 8:30 a.m.-2 p.m., Anna Maria Farmers Market, City Pier Park, Pine Avenue and Bay Boulevard. Anna Maria. Information: 941-708-6130.

ONGOING OFF AMI

Saturdays through May 7, 9 a.m.-2 p.m., Bradenton Market, Old Main Street, Bradenton. Information: 941-301-8445.

KIDS & FAMILY

Bradenton. Information: desotohq.com.

ONGOING OFF AMI

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

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

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

SAVE THE DATES

May 4, Center of Anna Maria Island’s Crawfish Boil, Anna Maria.

May 18, Bradentown’s Birthday Bash at the Market, Bradenton.

June 3-Aug. 2, the Bishop Museum of Science and Nature Science Camp, Bradenton.

June 3-Aug. 2, Center of Anna Maria Island Summer Camps, Anna Maria.

CLUBS & COMMUNITY ON AMI

Thursday, April 25

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

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

ONGOING ON AMI

Most Saturdays, 8:30 a.m., Kiwanis Club of Anna Maria Island meeting, Bradenton Beach City Hall, 107 Gulf Drive N., Bradenton Beach. Information: 941-7781383.

Second Mondays, 2 p.m., Center of Anna Maria Island Adult Book Club, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria. Information: 941-778-1908.

Most Tuesdays, noon, Rotary Club of Anna Maria Island meeting, Bridge Street Bistro, 111 Gulf Drive S., Bradenton Beach. Information: 941-718-5583.

ONGOING OFF AMI

Through June 30, “Yayoi Kusama: A Letter to Georgia O’Keeffe,” Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, 1534 Mound St., Sarasota. Fee applies. Information: 941366-5731.

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, 10:30 a.m., art demos, Island Gallery and Studios, 456 Old Main St., Bradenton. Information: 941778-6648, islandgalleryandstudios.org.

Second and fourth Saturdays, 2 p.m., Music on the Porch jam session, presented by the Florida Maritime Museum and Cortez Cultural Center,

Friday, April 26

ON AMI

10 a.m. — 40 Carrots, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341.

6-8 p.m. — Center of Anna Maria Island Family Night, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria. Information: 941-778-1908.

Tuesday, April 30

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

OFF AMI

Saturday, April 27

7:30 p.m. — De Soto Grand Parade, Manatee Avenue West,

Now

Third Thursdays, 6:30 p.m., through April, Manatee Audubon Society meetings, First United Methodist Church of Palmetto, 330 11th Ave. W., Palmetto. Information: manateeaudubon@gmail.com, 941-729-2222.

SAVE THE DATES

May 4, Center of Anna Maria Island Beach Cleanup, Anna Maria.

May 4, Keep Manatee Beautiful Love It Like a Local Cleanup, Bradenton Beach.

May 28, Keep Manatee Beautiful/Holmes Beach Beach Cleanup, Holmes Beach.

June 4, Keep Manatee Beautiful Palma Sola Causeway Park Cleanup, Bradenton.

LESSONS & LEARNING ON AMI

Wednesday, May 1

10 a.m. — Kickstart Creative Writing, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341.

ONGOING OFF AMI

Mondays, 1 p.m., Longboat Key Paradise Center for Healthy

Silver center hosts book sale, lunch

The Annie Silver Community Center will host a potluck lunch and book sale Saturday, April 27.

The activities will be 10 a.m.-1 p.m. at the neighborhood center, 103 23rd St. N., Bradenton Beach.

For more information, call Dianne Coates at 724-787-1418.

Living Thinking Out Loud discussions, 546 Bay Isles Road, Longboat Key. Information: 941-383-6493.

SAVE THE DATES

May 7, Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring Turtle Talks, Holmes Beach.

SPORTS & GAMES

ONGOING ON AMI

Most Wednesdays, 1 p.m., mahjong club beginners, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-7786341.

Fridays, noon, bridge, Roser Memorial Community Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Information: 314-324-5921.

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

Mondays, 10 a.m., morning yoga, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341.

ONGOING OFF AMI

Through Sept. 1, Bradenton Marauders homestand games, LECOM Park, 1611 Ninth St. W., Bradenton. Fee apples. Information: 941747-3031.

OUTDOORS & NATURE OFF AMI

Friday, April 26

5:30 p.m. — Nature Play Festival, Robinson Preserve, 10299 Ninth Ave. NW, Bradenton. Information: 941-742-5923.

Tuesday, April 30

10 a.m. — Plants and People: Edible and Medicinal Plant Walk, Neal Preserve, 12301 Manatee Ave. W., Perico Island Information: 941-742-5923.

ONGOING OFF AMI

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

CALENDAR NOTES

KEEP THE DATES

April 26, National Arbor Day.

May 1-Oct. 31, sea turtle nesting season. Lights out!

May 1, May Day.

May 5, Cinco de Mayo.

May 12, Mother’s Day.

May 27, Memorial Day.

June 1-Nov. 30, Atlantic hurricane season. Be prepared!

GET LISTED!

Please, send listings to calendar@islander.org.

Island happenings

Featured artist in May

photographer David Tejada will be the featured artist in May at island Gallery and Studios, 456 old Main St., Bradenton. His show is “Harmony lines, Shapes and Color.” Tejada said lines, shapes and color form the foundation of strong graphic images. For more information about the gallery, go to islandgalleryandstudios.org or call 941-778-6648.

De Soto Grande Parade Day arrives April 27

The De Soto Heritage Festival will conclude Saturday, April 27, with a parade on Manatee Avenue.

An estimated 100,000 people are expected to line Manatee Avenue in Bradenton to watch more than 150 entries parade past.

Organizers, online at desotohq.com, said the 2024 parade “is getting a major overhaul … as the event has outgrown its traditional route thanks to an increasing number of entries, more spectators and bigger floats.”

Changes include staging on Manatee Avenue between First Street West and Ninth Street West, with the nine-block section of Manatee Avenue closing at 1 p.m. and westbound Manatee traffic rerouted to Ninth Avenue West.

The remainder of Manatee Avenue from Ninth Street West to 43rd Street West will close at 5 p.m.

Also, southbound lanes on the Green Bridge across the Manatee River will close about an hour before the parade starts at 7:30 p.m.

For more details, go online to desotohq.com or call 941-747-1998.

Odd Duck Designs Shop

Wearable T-shirt art by local artist Connie Wolgast. Scan here shop!

Island Players to stage ‘The Woman in Black’

The Island Players’ presentation of “The Woman in Black” will open Thursday, May 2, and continue through Sunday, May 12.

Kelly Wynn Woodland is directing the island production — the last of the 75th season — with a cast that includes Tom Horton, Mark Woodland and Tahlia Chinault.

“The Woman in Black” was written by Stephen Mallatratt and Susan Hill, based on Hill’s novel, as a gothic story.

Performances will be 7:30 p.m. TuesdaySaturday and 2 p.m. Sundays. The theater, 10009 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria, is dark Mondays.

The box office, 10009 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria, opened April 22 for in-person and telephone ticket sales.

Hours are 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Monday-Saturday and an hour before showtime.

Tickets also can be purchased at theislandplayers.org.

The production is coproduced by Bortell’s Lounge.

For more information, call the box office at 941-778-5755.

76th season subscriptions

The Island Players will begin selling subscriptions for the 76th season Wednesday, May 1, with forms available at theislandplayers.org.

The season will open with “Crimes of the Heart,” Sept. 19-29.

Other plays in the lineup include:

• “A Doublewide, Texas Christmas,” Nov. 14-24;

• “Birthday Suite,” Jan. 9-26, 2025;

• “Death by Design,” March 13-30, 2025;

• “Grace and Glorie,” May 8-18, 2025.

For more information on the new season at the Anna Maria theater, call the box office at 941778-5755.

Kiwanis meeting Saturdays

The Kiwanis Club of Anna Maria Island gathers at 8:30 a.m. Saturdays at Bradenton Beach City Hall, 107 Gulf Drive N.

The April 27 meeting will feature remarks by a representative from the Mark Wandall Foundation of Bradenton, which is a nonprofit providing support for grieving youth who have experienced the death of a parent, sibling or guardian.

For more information, call Sandy Haas-Martens at 941-778-1383.

etsy.com/shop/OddDuckDesignsShop 941-224-1897 to

AME Earth Day posters for the planet

Fifth-grade contestants in an Anna Maria elementary School earth Day poster contest — luke Willing, left, Kasan price, Jacob Winston, Amanda Fedler, Bliss rippy, Vivien Tupin, and Mariam Mohib, line up in front of their artwork at the Cortez Cultural Center, which hosted an April 20 earth Day ecoadventure.

Mariam Mohib accepted first-place, while Vivien Tupin accepted the second-place ribbon. The contest winner got a free sightseeing tour with Capt. Kathe Tupin of Captain Kathe & First-Mate pup-pup Charters of Cortez, while second- and thirdplace winners received gift certificates to Tyler’s ice Cream. islander photos: robert Anderson

Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission education specialist Conrad provan shows a black bear skull April 20 to second-grader Karlan Mohib and fifthgraders Mariam Mohib, Adelaide McGraw and Bliss rippy at a booth at the Cortez Cultural Center, 11655 Cortez road W., Cortez.

Cortez Village Historical Society volunteer Susynne Mcelrone speaks April 20 to people gathered for the unveiling of a diorama depicting different types of netting techniques used in Cortez throughout history to harvest mullet. Mcelrone said the diorama was built in the 1980s by local fisherman John McDonald.

Principal change coming to AME in 2024-25

By robyn Murrell islander reporter

Anna Maria Elementary will have a new principal for the 2024-25 school year.

The school’s advisory council met April 18 in the Guy Harvey Room at AME, 4700 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, for its final meeting of the 2023-24 school year and learned of principal Mike Masiello’s retirement.

At the meeting, they discussed Masiello’s plans as well as the plan to find his replacement.

The SAC members also discussed the loss of teacher and support staff in the coming year and upgrades to the campus, including an outdoor classroom and deck.

Masiello, teachers Pidge Barreda and Sandy Fisher and parents Janae Rudacille and Jessica Patel attended the meeting. Absent SAC members were Julie Sawyer, Christine LaBranche, Jenny Moore and Chris Culhane.

Starting at the top, the council discussed Masiello’s retirement — set for the end of this school year.

Masiello became principal in 2021 after principal Jackie Featherston retired.

He has worked for the Manatee County School District for nearly 20 years and was instrumental in establishing the Guy Harvey Academy of Arts and Science at AME.

Masiello said he will be involved in the selection of a new principal, who could be named in May.

AME will see other changes in staffing, with one less third-grade teacher, the elimination of a guidance clerk position and the removal of the school substitute position districtwide.

Instead of a designated substitute, the school will utilize the district’s employee self-service system to find temporary teachers.

Meanwhile, due to low third-grade enrollment at AME, the district decided to cut a teacher.

However, Masiello said an additional teacher could be hired for third- or fifth-grade, depending on enrollment before the new year begins.

For 2024–25, AME will have two kindergarten teachers, two first-grade teachers, two second-grade teachers, one third-grade teacher, two fourth-grade teachers and one fifth-grade teacher.

Changes in teacher allocation throughout the district are due to the depletion of funds from the district’s $1 million Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief grant from the state to help with COVID-19.

In other news, a rendering of a new outdoor learning classroom was shown.

The space — construction has begun — includes a main teaching area and three offshoot areas.

The school’s organic garden and butterfly garden were removed to make room for the space but both gardens will be rebuilt on the campus.

Funds to construct the learning space came from the school’s $1 million awarded for the Guy Harvey Academy, which had to be spent by the end of 2023–24.

The school also has $2 million in funds remaining that it has three years to spend.

Another order of business was a SAC evaluation, where the council talked about the effectiveness of the council.

An area where the council saw challenges was with its membership number.

Bylaws say the council should consist of 16 members, but AME only has 10 members.

A combination of teachers, staff, parents and community and business members but no students.

The council might change the times of the meeting to encourage more parent involvement.

About the committee

The school advisory council facilitates collaboration between parents, the community and school administrators to improve educational programs and promote parental involvement.

For more information about the committee, contact the school at 941-708-5525 or go online to www. manateeschools.net/annamaria.

PTO celebrates ’70s at gala

By robyn Murrell islander reporter

The Anna Maria Elementary Parent-Teacher Organization is ready to host its biggest fundraiser, the annual spring gala.

The gala is set for 6-10 p.m. Saturday, April 27, at the Center of Anna Maria Island, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria.

Tickets are $60 and can be purchased online at www.ticketstripe.com/amehustle.

The gala, a popular fundraiser for more than 40 years, will have a Seventies theme and attendees can expect an evening reminiscent of a prom night infused with the energy of Studio 54 — a glamorous affair with food, drinks and dancing.

The gala will be catered by gRub Tropical BBQ of Anna Maria with a menu crafted to offer ’70s-style cuisine with a twist but steering clear of Jell-O molds. The buffet will feature charcuterie, fondue, a chocolate

fountain, a green bean casserole, roasted potato hash and shake-n-bake chicken.

Appetizers will include candied shrimp lollipops, beef hummus martini, smoked brisket sliders, Parmesan truffle fries, mini stuffed peppers, pork belly bites, watermelon salad and sweet and purple potato chips.

PTO organizers said local businesses have contributed to gift baskets for an auction.

Auction items include a mountain house vacation; passes to Mote Marine Laboratory, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay and the Kennedy Space Center; Beach Bums golf cart rentals; Waterfront Restaurant gift cards; Prosper Fitness classes; and the chance to be the grand marshal of the Anna Maria Island Privateers Fourth of July Parade.

Jessica patel, left, Sandy Fisher, pidge Barreda, Janae rudacille and principal Mike Masiello discuss hiring a new school principal during an April 18 meeting of AMe School Advisory Council. islander photo: robyn Murrell

•

•

early dismissal.

• Friday, May 24, 1:50 p.m., last day for students.

• Tuesday, May 28, last day for staff.

• Monday, Aug 12, first day of 2024-25 for students.

Anna Maria Elementary is at 4700 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach.

For more information, call the school at 941-708-5525.

Bidding on silent auction items began April 20 online at www.32auctions.com/amehustle.

AME PTO board members told The Islander April 16 via email that funds raised will fill the gaps where the school district budget might fall short — tuition, reading enrichment, field trips, outdoor learning experiences, and garden-growing projects. Funds also might be used for soccer balls and nets and other sports supplies.

For more information, contact the AME PTO via email at amepto@gmail.com or call the school at 941708-5525.

SARASOTA GEM

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By lisa neff

Summer hours for thrift store

The Lord’s Warehouse at the Longboat Island Chapel will shift to summer hours Wednesday, May 1.

The thrift store, 6140 Gulf of Mexico Drive, will be open 9 a.m.-noon Monday, Wednesday and Saturday through August.

The store will close for September.

For more information, call the chapel at 941-3834738.

Annunciation to host author

The Episcopal Church of the Annunciation will host author Diana Ward during a program at 2 p.m. Saturday, May 11.

Ward wrote “Behind the Smile: The Heartbreaking Journey of Raising a Son with Addiction and Mental Illness.”

She’s expected to speak about addiction, mental health and suicide.

The church is at 4408 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach.

For more information, call the church at 941-7781638.

Roser surveys on renovation

Roser Memorial Community Church is surveying members on plans to renovate the sanctuary, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria.

The survey asks whether people support construction starting in summer 2025 and whether they’d financially support the project.

The cost is estimated at $250,000 and would involve creating a more flexible, safer platform.

For more info, call the church at 941-778-0414.

United at Roser

Cheryl Holloway, president of Church Women united of Manatee County, addresses an April 9 gathering of the group, which was held in the Fellowship Hall at roser Memorial Community Church, 512 pine Ave., Anna Maria. Attendees heard remarks, shared a brunch and received shells from roser Women’s Guild member peggy nash. islander photo: Courtesy peggy nash

Christ Church celebrates

National Day of Prayer

Christ Church of Longboat Key Presbyterian (USA), 6400 Gulf of Mexico Drive, will observe the National Day of Prayer 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Thursday, May 2.

A notice invited people to the church’s sanctuary to “take a moment, to pray, celebrate and reflect.”

The National Day of Prayer is an annual observance held the first Thursday of May, inviting people to pray for the nation.

The day was created in 1952 by a joint resolution of Congress and signed into law by President Harry S. Truman.

For more information, call the church at 941-3838833.

Sunday, April 28

10:30 a.m. — St. Bernard Catholic Church Sacrament of Confirmation, 248 S. Harbor Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-7784769.

SAVE THE DATES

May 3, Temple Beth Israel Shabbat Dinner, Longboat Key.

May 5, St. Bernard first Communion Mass, Holmes Beach.

May 11, Episcopal Church of the Annunciation author presentation, Holmes Beach.

June 3-7, Roser Church vacation Bible school, Anna Maria.

June 17-21, CrossPointe Fellowship vacation Bible school, Holmes Beach.

ONGOING ON AMI

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

Worship: Sundays, 9 a.m.

Ongoing: Wednesdays, 7 a.m., men’s Bible meeting; Wednesdays through May 15, 6 p.m., Wednesday Night Blast supper and 6:30 p.m., Wednesday Night Blast; Fridays, 10 a.m. women’s Bible meeting.

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

Worship: Thursdays, 9:30 a.m.; Sundays, 8 a.m. and 10:15 a.m.

Ongoing: Most Wednesdays, 8 a.m., men’s breakfast; Mondays, 1 p.m., book club.

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

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

Ongoing: First Sundays, food bank collections; Wednesdays, 9:30 a.m., women’s social gathering.

Harvey Memorial Community Church, 300 Church Ave., Bradenton Beach. Information: 941-779-1912.

Worship: Sundays, 9:15 a.m.

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

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

Ongoing: Tuesdays, Thursdays, 9:30 a.m., RoserRobics; Tuesdays, 2 p.m., women’s book study; first and third Wednesdays, 11:30 a.m., Just Older Youth group; select Wednesdays through May 22, 9:30 a.m., Mom’s Cafe.

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

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

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

ONGOING OFF AMI

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

Worship: Sundays, 10 a.m.

Ongoing: Wednesdays, 10 a.m., women’s Bible study; Mondays, 9 a.m., men’s Bible study; Tuesdays, 1:30 p.m., bridge club.

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

Worship: Sundays, 10 a.m.

Ongoing: Mondays, 4 p.m., choir practice.

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

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

Editor’s note: Holidays and other observances might require

The good/bad old days

Dickey Betts, guitarist and cofounder of the Allman Brothers Band, died April 18 at the age of 80 at his home in Osprey.

“It is with profound sadness and heavy hearts that the Betts family announce the peaceful passing of Forrest Richard ‘Dickey’ Betts,” a statement read.

“Dickey was larger than life, and his loss will be felt world-wide,” the statement continued.

Betts and others in the Allman Bros, as well as Betts’ Great Southern band, frequented AMI in the late 1970s and enlivened the nightlife scene.

In 2006, when Gregg Allman was set to headline a blues festival in Sarasota, The Islander offered a look back from David Reid, who lives today in Los Angeles but in the 1970s owned the Oar House in Bradenton Beach:

“Gregg used to come in at all hours, including our morning happy hour. In the morning, he drank Ouzo. A shot. Evenings it was more Cutty and Coke, the first time I had ever heard the combo and I’ve mixed a lot of drinks.

“My partner and I rented the jukebox outright so all profits went into our pockets, no split like on the pinball machines and we loaded the juke with Allman Brothers’ 45s. Unfortunately only one really rang true to our customers and I thought I’d go off the deep end — dangerous at a beach bar — if I heard ‘Midnight Rider’ one more time.

“It was during this hype that other ‘celebs’ dropped in. I’d do the bar for the backstage at Van Wezel and the promoters would give them a map to the Oar House. Tom Waites and Leon Redbone both ventured out, and of course Dickey Betts, and Dickey’s wife Paulette even brought Gregg’s wife out one afternoon. She is known in her own right as Cher.”

And then there was the Sunday afternoon when the band put on a show at the Oar House.

Reid said, “They brought out their equipment Saturday night, then Sunday morning all hell broke loose. The roads to Bradenton Beach were packed, we sold out of beer — all of it — and we carried Pabst Blue Ribbon Light. Budweiser brought a truck out to the island and we almost sold it completely down. We drove two pickups to Cortez and loaded the bed full of ice from Star Fish House. As fast as the beer would chill it went out over the bar.”

Reid also remembered that when the bar burned down, Allman had an outstanding tab of $154.75, but with all the publicity brought to the Oar House by the singer, all was forgiven.

— lisa neff

And on that note …

On that Sunday, with the walls shaking in the Oar House from the sound produced by Great Southern and the crowds pushing the party onto the beach, I wound up in the back of the room— close to an escape, the door to the beach — at the pinball machines with my friend, later partner, Paul Roat, a reporter photographer at the old (former) Islander newspaper and our boss, owner Don Moore. I was working there in ad sales.

It was an extraordinary day of music, beer, beach, sun, friends. But none of us recall the date.

We thrashed the machines and hung out with Paulette Betts and brothers Frankie and Dan Toler’s wives, Marsha and Debbie.

I don’t recall when Gregg jumped in, but I do know the day inspired Gregg and Dickey to rekindle the band.

Shortly after that wild Oar House day, they reunited and I got invited by Debbie and Marsha to ride with them on the “band bus” to Gainesville to a show.

Hmmmm. I hesitated. I did not want to be a band groupie. I hadn’t met Gregg or Dickey, and I didn’t want to be in that circle. But what turned me was the opening act, B.B. King.

We arrived late to the auditorium, having made a stop for chewing tobacco for Dickey just outside Gainesville and, thankfully, I was able to guide the bus driver, who became lost on campus at the University of Florida, to the auditorium.

We missed the opening show, but we met B.B. King in the offstage room. He had his raincoat on and his guitar in hand, ready to hit the road. He looked to me to be bigger than life.

Obituaries

Gail Knight Derick

Gail Knight Derick, 89, of Holmes Beach, died March 23 after a brief illness. She was surrounded by her loving family.

She was born May 25, 1934, in Brockton, Massachusetts, and attended Middlebury (Vermont) College, where she met her husband, Phil.

Her passion for life was contagious and she shared her love through everything she did: grade school and nursery schoolteacher, health care worker, hospice volunteer.

She cherished being a mother and devoted wife.

She shared a love of sports with her husband, particularly the Boston Red Sox, when Phil took on the role as a team ambassador in 2001. She accompanied him to many games and loved assisting in the role of fan services. Together they filled countless requests for Fenway Fan packs from around the world and helped take the World Series trophy on tour in 2004.

In recent years, she found another passion in the Tampa Bay Lightning hockey team, watching games from her couch while holding hands with Phil.

Her presence will be deeply missed by her family and friends. Her brilliant love and infectious laughter will live on in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to have known her. May she rest in peace, knowing she made the world such a brighter place.

A celebration of life was held April 6 at Christ Episcopal Church in Bradenton. Memorial donations may be made to the Lord’s Pantry in care of Christ Episcopal Church, 4030 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton FL 34205.

Mrs. Derick is survived by her loving husband of 65 years, Philip; her children Jim and wife Jody, Jennifer and husband Matthew and Alison and partner Emily; grandchildren Michael, Christopher, Ryan,

Later, the band’s mates and myself waited on the bus for the band for more than an hour. It was one of the first shows for the reunited Allman Brothers Band — and the last for Jaimoe — who quit that night.

Dan Toler was already playing lead guitar with Dickey, but Jaimoe’s exit opened the door for his brother Frankie to take a seat on the drums. It was a pivitol, if not historic moment for the Tolers — who were Bradenton “locals” — and for history.

Oh. What a night.

— Bonner Joy

Meghan Gail, Caroline and Theo; and great-granddaughter Alessia. Extended family includes cousins Fritz Knight, Carl Knight and Marny Walsh.

John Ferguson Norman, DDS

John Ferguson Norman, DDS, 78, of Bradenton, died March 23.

He was born Jan. 26, 1946, in Texas, but lived most of his life in Florida in Ocala, Palma Sola and on Anna Maria Island.

After graduation from Ocala High School in 1964, he enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps. As a helicopter aviator, he flew 888 combat missions during the Vietnam War, the majority of those being medevac sorties.

After military service, he returned to Florida and enrolled at Florida State University, where he graduated with a bachelor of science degree. He attended Emory University Medical School in Atlanta, where he received his degree as doctor of dental surgery.

Dr. Norman’s love of the water and sailing brought him to Anna Maria Island, where he practiced dentistry for more than 40 years.

Generous to a fault, many folks on the island had their dental procedures performed free of charge, with no pretense or expectation on Dr. Norman’s part.

He would often tell patients, “Just bring me some stone crabs” or “something from your garden.”

A Renaissance man, he was an avid reader, sailor, woodworker, dog lover and fast friend to those lives fortunate to have crossed paths with his.

He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. Fittingly, his resting place will be at Florida National Cemetery, Bushnell. A formal service with military honors will precede his interment.

Dr. Norman is survived by his older sister, Sandra of Hernando, and younger sister, Gail of Ocala; and his dog, Spanky.

Derick

Circa 1979. Giving the band one more try. A blend of Allman Brothers Band players and Dickey Betts band, Great Southern, on the back porch at the oar House, including an unknown member, left, Frankie Toler, Butch Trucks, Gregg Allman, Dickey Betts and original “Brother” drummer John lee “Jaimoe” Johanson. photographer unknown.

Coquina Beach trail getting makeover

road signs mark the closure of the Cortez Beach section of a multiuse trail

April 15 in Bradenton Beach. The Manatee County trail, a paved path about 8 feet wide, runs from the south end of the Coquina Beach parking lot about 1.5 miles north to Cortez Beach near Fifth Street South. County public information officer Bill logan April 17 told The islander that crews will remove and grade the path from the north end of Coquina Beach to the north end of Cortez Beach. logan said the contractor will coordinate with crews on a gravity sewer project along Gulf Drive South at Cortez Beach. The county is spending $1.3 million for the path’s remodel because tree roots made the surface uneven and unsafe. Construction is anticipated to be completed by the end of this month. islander photo: robert Anderson

Manatee County Area Transit: Island Trolley

Schedule info is a public service of

RoadWatch

Eyes on the road

• South Bradenton Beach: Manatee County is working on sewer lines on side streets off Gulf Drive South. Motorists can expect closures of some side streets. Construction has begun on Seventh Street South and is expected to continue through late April. For the latest, go to amiprojects.io.

• City center in Holmes Beach: Manatee County’s work on a force main project on Holmes Boulevard, Marina Drive and side streets continues. For the latest, go to amiprojects.io.

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

— lisa Neff

Did you know?

Before departing for a destination, travelers can check traffic cameras at many locations around Anna Maria Island, including on the Cortez and Anna Maria Island Bridges.

To check the traffic situation via road cameras, go to fl511.com.

RideFREE

Bradenton Beach commissioner seeks continuing education

By Robert Anderson Islander Reporter

Bradenton Beach’s newest commissioner, Deborah Scaccianoce, is looking to bolster her record-keeping knowledge through continued education.

Having stepped into the Ward 1 commission seat vacated in December 2023 by Jake Spooner, Scaccianoce is pursuing professional development. She was appointed to the commission March 21.

Commissioners, during an April 18 meeting, voted to approve Scaccianoce’s attendance at a May 21-24 conference organized by the Florida Records Management Association in Daytona. The commission, recognizing the value of Scaccianoce’s background as a public records keeper for Manatee County, voted unanimously to fund her expenses to attend the conference.

The cost is $375 to attend the three-day conference.

“I am certified in the state of Florida and would like to maintain that membership,” Scaccianoce told the commission.

She emphasized the importance of ongoing certification, which entails testing every two years. The conference will help her accrue educational credits.

Scaccianoce said she views the conference as an opportunity for education and a means to enrich her decision-making abilities on the commission.

She said FRMA comprises records managers from across the state and its conferences deal with issues such as the impact of artificial intelligence on records management, case law, Sunshine Law and procedural changes.

“I think it’s information that I could bring back to the commission and it would be valuable,” Scaccianoce said. “And it’s an excellent opportunity for networking.”

Up for review

Bradenton Beach city treasurer Shane Thompson, left, outgoing public works director Tom Woodard, Mayor John Chappie and police Chief John Cosby meet April 15 at city hall to discuss a bid from Integrated Solutions during a request for proposal review. Integrated Solutions assists municipalities with Federal Emergency Management

Agency damage assessments and submittals. “If we have a larger event, they come in and helps us submit everything to FEMA,” said Cosby, who has long served as the city’s emergency management chief. He said a large-scale disaster might warrant third-party management because city staff would return to regular duties during a lengthy recovery. Only one bid was received and the workgroup accepted the Integrated Solutions proposal. The proposal now goes before city commissioners. Islander Photo: Robert Anderson

“I wholeheartedly agree with Debbie’s continuing this,” Mayor John Chappie said.

“I think it’s so important to get this extra education for our city and bring it back for our city, so we don’t make any mistakes,” Chappie said. “This is one of those ways in which an elected official can highly contribute to our city and the expertise we are able to offer our residents and citizens here in Bradenton Beach.”

Commissioner Ralph Cole motioned to approve payment of Scaccianoce’s conference and hotel fees for the training and was seconded by Commissioner Jan Vosburgh.

The motion passed by a 4-0 vote. Commissioner Marilyn Maro did not vote and was absent without excuse.

Scaccianoce, in an April 18 interview with The Islander, said she had completed her Sunshine Law training prior to being appointed commissioner — in

July 2023.

In other matters, commissioners heard from city attorney Ricinda Perry and public works consultant Mark Porter about construction along Avenues A and B to correct stormwater drainage in low-lying areas.

Porter gave an overview of construction efforts to increase stormwater capacity for drainage systems.

He said the work will decrease flooding, but the area still will be prone to fl ooding during weather events that coincide with high and king tides.

Perry said work along Avenue B is nearly completed and the project is progressing according to schedule.

The project is funded with a $2.69 million state appropriations grant and the work is expected to be completed by June 30.

The next commission meeting will be at 6 p.m. Thursday, May 2, at city hall, located at 107 Gulf Drive N.

Memories are made at The Oar House! Nestled on Pine Avenue in the heart of Anna Maria Island, this luxury home is the ideal sanctuary providing easy access to the pristine beaches, charming shops, and all the fabulous restaurants that Anna Maria has to offer With such attention to detail, exquisite craftsmanship, and unparalleled amenities this property is a true gem in the heart of paradise Enjoy yourself or reap big returns with its extraordinary short term rental program

restaurants, breathtaking views, and impeccable design, this luxury retreat promises a lucrative return on investment It is certainly a standout choice in the realm of exclusive Anna Maria Island vacation properties.

1313 Calle

Cops & Courts Streetlife

Bradenton woman arrested for drunk driving

Holmes Beach police arrested Bradenton resident Kristin Sanders, 48, April 13 on a second-degree misdemeanor for allegedly driving under the influence of alcohol with a blood/alcohol level of 0.15 or higher.

Sanders also faces a charge — another seconddegree misdemeanor — for allegedly violating nonresident requirements for a driver’s license.

An officer conducted a traffic stop about 11:49 p.m. and spoke with the driver, Sanders, who had an Oklahoma driver’s license but has lived in Bradenton since October 2023.

Sanders displayed signs of impairment and told the officer she had consumed alcohol before driving, according to the police report.

She failed field sobriety exercises and was arrested.

At the Holmes Beach Police Department, she registered breath samples with results of 0.162 and 0.164 milligrams of alcohol per 210 liters of breath. The state’s legal blood alcohol limit for driving under the influence is 0.08.

The officer transported Sanders to the Manatee County jail, where she was released April 14 after posting $650 bond.

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

An arraignment will be at 8:55 a.m. Thursday, May 16, at the Manatee County Judicial Center, 1051 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton.

— ryan paice

Island watch

In an emergency, call 911.

By robert Anderson and ryan paice Island police reports

Anna Maria

April 14, 800 block of North Shore Drive, vandalism. A Manatee County sheriff’s deputy responded to a complaint of vandalism. A complainant said someone keyed her vehicle while it was parked on a roadside. The officer assigned a case number and filed an incident report.

The MCSO polices Anna Maria. Bradenton Beach

No new reports.

The Bradenton Beach Police Department polices Bradenton Beach.

Cortez

April 12, 4000 block of 123rd Street West, trespassing. An MCSO deputy responded to a complaint of trespassing. The complainant said an individual previously trespassed from their property had returned and asked for a deputy to remove the person. The deputy contacted the individual and the subject left.

The MCSO polices Cortez.

Holmes Beach

April 9, 600 block of North Point Drive, vandalism. A Holmes Beach police officer responded to reports of vandalism and found the complainants with a damaged sign that appeared to have been ripped out of the ground. One of the complainants provided the officer with video footage but it did not include a view of the sign.

After she was medically cleared, she was transported to the Manatee County jail.

April 13, Manatee Public Beach, 4000 Gulf Drive, marijuana. An officer found a vehicle and two people parked after closing hours at the park. The officer smelled marijuana and the passenger handed over a container with 1.2 grams of marijuana. She did not have a medical marijuana license. The officer also saw a bong on the floor behind the passenger seat, which the passenger claimed was hers. The officer confiscated the marijuana and the bong and issued the woman a citation.

April 13, 2800 block of Avenue E, Marchman Act. An officer responded to reports of a suspicious person and found an intoxicated man with injuries next to a bicycle. The offi cer called for EMS, but the man refused treatment. The officer placed him in police custody under the Marchman Act after determining the man was likely to cause harm to himself. He was transported to HCA Florida Blake Hospital in Bradenton.

April 14, Manatee Public Beach, 4000 Gulf Drive, leaving scene of crash. A man entered the Holmes Beach Police Department to report a hit-and-run crash. He told police his vehicle was parked in the lot while he was at the beach. He said he returned to find a woman who said a motorist crashed into their cars and left. She took a picture of the motorist, which was provided to police. An officer issued the man a case card and identified the pictured vehicle. He called the woman who witnessed the crash and she provided descriptions of the motorist and a passenger. The officer tracked down the vehicle to a property off the Palma Sola Causeway and found a damaged vehicle. The officer spoke with two women at the property and one woman admitted to driving the vehicle when it hit the other. An officer issued a court summons and a criminal traffic citation.

HBPD polices Holmes Beach.

To report information, call the MCSO Anna Maria substation, 941-7088899; Bradenton Beach police, 941-778-6311; or Holmes Beach police, 941-708-5804.

April 9, 5900 block of Flotilla Drive, probation violation/resisting without violence. Two officers responded to reports of potential domestic abuse. A caller reported to police that his wife was “tearing the house up.” The woman had left by the time police arrived. The officers spoke with the complainant, who said no criminal actions occurred. An officer later found the woman in a parked vehicle with an open alcohol container inside. The officer approached her and tried to speak with her, but she drove away. The officer followed her and conducted a traffic stop, but the woman continued to be uncooperative and refused to open her door or lower her window. The offi cer arrested the woman for resisting without violence. She requested medical care for arm pain, so police called Manatee County Emergency Medical Services. EMS cleared her but she continued to report pain, so she was taken to HCA Florida Blake Hospital in Bradenton.

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

Cops & Courts

Bradenton man convicted of manslaughter in 2021 shooting

By robert Anderson islander reporter

A Manatee County jury April 17 found Nicholas Koontz of Bradenton guilty of manslaughter with a firearm in a 2021 shooting.

Sentencing is to come.

Koontz, 25, fatally shot Timothy Andricks, 31, of Bradenton, near a stop sign at Seventh Avenue West and 50th Court West in Bradenton after Andricks approached Koontz’s vehicle.

Koontz and Andricks, who did not know one another, were involved in a road-rage altercation, according an April 18 news release from 12th Circuit State Attorney Ed Brodsky’s office.

During the altercation, Andricks threw a paper McDonald’s cup containing ice and soda at Koontz’s vehicle.

Koontz then followed Andricks at a high rate of speed until they came to a stop in a residential neighborhood.

Andricks exited his car.

Koontz then exited his car and shot Andricks several times.

Koontz, who left the scene and did not call 911, was arrested shortly after the shooting by Manatee County sheriff’s deputies and charged with seconddegree murder.

The trial was April 15-17 at the Manatee County Judicial Center in Bradenton with 12th Circuit Judge Frederick P. Mercurio presiding.

Attorney Roger Futerman represented Koontz and assistant State Attorney Rebecca Louise Freel served as the lead prosecutor.

The jury found Koontz, who claimed he was acting in self-defense, guilty of manslaughter with a firearm, a first-degree felony that can result in up to 30 years in prison, 30 years of probation and a fine of up to $10,000.

Freel, in the news release, said, “The retaliatory actions taken by this defendant in murdering this victim over a minor dispute cannot be tolerated in our community.”

She continued, “We appreciate the hard work of the homicide detectives with the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office in this investigation as well as the time and attention given to the case by the jury.”

Andricks was raised in Anna Maria with three siblings, Barry, Dusty and Trey.

Milestones

The islander welcomes stories about islanders and island life, as well as photographs and notices of the milestones in readers’ lives — weddings, births, anniversaries, travels, obituaries and other events. Submit your announcements and photographs with captions for publication — along with contact information — to news@islander.org.

Trial date set for alleged Holmes Beach burglar

By ryan paice islander reporter

A jury trial is right around the corner for a North Carolina man arrested on five felony charges in April 2023.

Holmes Beach police arrested Baryn Helbing, 20, of Indian Trail, North Carolina, April 12, 2023, following an alleged two-day crime spree in the island city.

Helbing was charged with:

• A second-degree felony for burglary of an unoccupied dwelling;

• A third-degree felony for grand theft of a motor vehicle;

• Two third-degree felonies for burglary;

• A third-degree felony for possession of buprenorphine, a controlled substance, without a prescription.

HBPD said Helbing was linked to the thefts of a low-speed vehicle and an electric bicycle April 10, 2023, and identified with video footage on April 11, 2023.

An officer found Helbing riding the stolen e-bicycle April 12, 2023, and arrested him.

The officer searched Helbing and found the buprenorphine in his bag.

Helbing was arrested and transported to the Manatee County jail. He was released April 12, 2023, into the Manatee County Pretrial Services Program after posting $14,000 bond.

Helbing entered a not guilty plea April 13, 2023.

Now, his trial is slated to begin at 9 a.m. Monday, June 10, at the Manatee County Judicial Center, 1051 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton.

If convicted, punishment for a second-degree felony charge includes up to 15 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.

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

New police boat ready to serve Holmes Beach

Holmes Beach police Chief Bill Tokajer stands April 12 with his department’s new Metal Shark 28 relentless, a 28-foot-long metal hull vessel designed for law enforcement use. The vessel cost the city $283,868, which was funded with a grant from the West Coast inland Navigational District.

islander photo: Courtesy HBpD

Trading places: AM-MCSO deputies, building department

By ryan paice islander reporter

The city of Anna Maria’s building department and Manatee County Sheriff’s Office-Anna Maria substation are getting situated in newly fitted accommodations.

Mayor Dan Murphy told The Islander April 19 that the building department and MCSO substation were beginning to settle in after swapping office spaces April 4-5.

The building department and its staff of three is now located in the old records room at city hall, 10005 Gulf Drive.

The MCSO substation is now housed with public works in the city annex, 307 Pine Ave., which the city, having previously leased, purchased last year for $1 million.

The substation’s growth in recent years is one of the reasons for the change.

Murphy said that when he was first elected mayor in 2014, the substation only employed about five depu-

ties. It now employs eight, but regularly brings in temporary deputies for special assignments.

Sgt. Brett Getman told The Islander April 19 that the city staffs 12 deputies over Memorial Day weekends, so having more space to coordinate and prepare at the annex is very beneficial.

Getman, who suffered a December 2022 heart attack while on duty at city hall, said he was happy to change settings and would not miss a thing about the old office digs.

“Personally, it’s good to get out of that building,” he said.

Murphy said another benefit of moving the MCSO substation into the city annex was that it allows the deputies to establish a greater presence along Pine Avenue.

He said he has seen behavior along that area of Pine cool down now that there are a couple of MCSO vehicles parked outside the annex.

“We’re more visible to the public now than when we were at city hall,” Getman said.

On the other hand, the building department has “shrunk” over the years due to the advent of digitization, with only three full-time employees, according to Murphy.

Those employees include building department manager Dean Jones, city planner Ashley Austin and building administrator Amy Moriarty.

Jones told The Islander April 19 that he was seeking an in-house building official, so the department may add another member at some point.

Currently, the city contracts the services of a member of Melbourne Beach-based Joe Payne Inc. as its building official.

“We’d like to have one that’s a bit more connected to the city and in-house,” Jones said. “We want to serve Anna Maria and be the best building department that we’ve ever been.”

He added that the building department’s relocation would help it provide better customer service to the people coming to city hall for assistance.

Murphy added that moving the building department back into city hall also helps improve synergy between the building and administrative departments.

“Instead of having our workforce divided between

two separate buildings, now I’ve got everybody here,” he said.

While the city closed its building department for the two-day transition between offices, it’s been smooth sailing since.

“It’s going good,” Murphy said. “I think this is a much better arrangement.”

Milestones

The Islander welcomes stories about islanders and island life, as well as photographs and notices of the milestones in readers’ lives — weddings, births, anniversaries, travels, obituaries and other events.

Submit your announcements and photographs with captions for publication — along with contact information — to news@islander.org.

T-Shirts $10 @ The Islander, 315 58th St., HB.

Anna Maria building department manager Dean Jones leans back April 19 in the department’s new quarters at city hall, 10005 Gulf Drive, where the sheriff’s substation used to be housed.

Manatee County Sheriff’s Sgt. Brett Getman, left, and Dep. Adam resnick, pose April 19 next to a patrol vehicle outside the Anna Maria City Annex, 307 pine Ave., where the city relocated the MCSO substation. islander photos: ryan paice

Cosens,

Savan-

Margaret, 7,

April

Hands-on Habits at the Florida Maritime Museum, 4415 119th St. W., Cortez. rowlett

with FMM for event on the museum grounds. Children worked at booths designed to teach the basics of the “Seven Habits of Highly Successful people,” a core principle of the academy. islander photos: robert Anderson

Off-duty crash injures HB

police officer,

totals cruiser

Holmes Beach police Officer ryan Welch’s department vehicle is trailered April 17. The vehicle was totaled in a March 9 crash on the mainland. Chief Bill Tokajer told The islander April 19 that Welch was driving home on Moc-

Hands on

BB honors police officer

Bradenton Beach police lt. lenard Diaz, right, presents the award for Bradenton Beach 2023 Officer of the Year to Officer Kyle Orms during an April 18 commission meeting at city hall. The city honored Orms’s role in the 2023 arrest of a motorist charged with possession of a controlled substance, distribution of barbiturates, possession of a fake driver’s license and possession of drug equipment. Orms accepted the plaque and basked in a round of applause from commissioners and meeting attendees. islander photo: robert Anderson

casin Wallow road in parrish when a motorist towing a boat turned in front of him. Welch sustained minor injuries and was back to work the next week, but his cruiser must be replaced. islander photo: Courtesy richard Stevens

Naris Woods, 2, discovers the slide on an inflatable bounce house set up as part of the activities for kids during an April 20 Suncoast remake learning Days Hands-on Habits event in Cortez.

ABOVE: rowlett Academy students

nah

8, left, and sister

make bracelets

20 during

partnered

Madeline, 6, enjoys a treat with her mother, Jennifer Kelly, at the April 20 Hands-on Habits event at the Florida Maritime Museum.

Soccer continues on center pitch, golf at KRC, horseshoes at AM

By Kevin p. Cassidy islander reporter

After three weeks of action, the 8-10 division has 3-0 Solid Rock Construction on top of the standings, just ahead of Intuitive Foundation at 2-1. Isoloa Bella Italian Eatery follows with a 1-0-2 record, just ahead of 1-1-1 Emily Moss Design. Am I Coconuts is at 0-2-1 and 0-3 Shady Lady Horticultural Services complete the standings.

Action for the 8-10s kicked off April 16 with Intuitive Foundation earning a 6-0 shutout victory over Am I Coconuts. Gunnar Maize and Parker Svoboda each scored three goals to lead Intuitive Foundation to the victory.

Owen Serra helped keep Am I Coconuts in the game with five saves.

The second game of the evening saw Solid Rock ride goals from Everly Chaplinsky, Lucas Urbiola and Evangeline Zupa to a 3-0 victory over Emily Moss. Samuel Raulerson and Elijah Roadman combined to make eights saves in the victory.

Miles Moss notched eight saves for Moss.

Louis Bacon scored a pair of goals and Abraham Dominguez added a goal to lead Isola Bella to a 3-2 victory over Shady Lady in the third game of the night. Ruby Kesten added an assist and Carson Long made seven saves to help preserve the victory.

Joseph Caballero and Leo Tyler scored a goal each and Simon Messinger made five saves for Shady Lady.

In the 11-14 division, Moss Builders is on top with a 2-0 record, just ahead of HSH Designs at 1-1. Solid Rock Construction holds down third place at 0-1-1, while Gitt Team at 0-0-1 and Westfall’s Lawn Care & Pest Control at 0-1-0 complete the standings.

Moss Builders defeated HSH Designs 4-2 to open the 11-14 action April 16. Theo Aupelle, Tristan Hagey, Renan Kesten and Mason Moss each scored goals to lead Moss, which also received four saves from goalie Thomas Holly in the victory.

Jesse Zaccagnino notched a pair of goals for HSH Designs, which also received nine saves from Jack Zaccagnino in the loss.

The last game of the evening saw Gitt Team and Solid Rock Construction battle to a 0-0 tie. Goalie Kyle Castagna made four saves to lead The Gitt Team, while Hayden Eurice and Charlie Serra combined to make 11 saves for Solid Rock in the tie.

Adult soccer action

After four weeks of action in the adult soccer league at the center, Pool America holds a slim lead in the standings with a 3-0-1 record, just ahead of Progressive Cabinetry at 3-1. Moss Builders is close behind at 2-1-1, while Language Services Associates,

Salty Printing and Sato Real Estate are bunched up with matching 2-2 records. Ross Built holds down seventh place with a 1-1-2 record, while Beach House Restaurant and Diamond Turf are tied at 1-3. Sold Rock Construction completes the standings at 0-2-2.

Progressive Cabinetry edged Ross Built 2-1 to open April 18, followed by Moss Builders earning a 3-0 shutout victory over Sato. Language Services defeated Beach House 3-0 in the third game of the night, while Diamond Turf earned its first victory with a 5-2 win over Solid Rock. The last game of the night saw Pool America cruise to a 5-2 victory over Salty Printing.

Key Royale golf news

Seventy-two Key Royale Club golfers played in the annual Farewell Scramble April 12, which saw the team of Dale Miller, Andi Saia and Pam and Roger Rottschaffer combine on a 3-under-par 29 to take first place.

In a scorecard playoff, Tony Donnelly, Lisa Edmonds and Cliff and Karen Lanning edged the team of Rod Hammonds, Heather Pritchard and Lance and Margaret Elson for second place. Jenny Huibers won the women’s longest-drive contest, while Rod Hammonds won it for the men. Closest-to-the-pin on the third hole was won by Cindy Lacy and Bill Sweeney. Linda Brockway and Ron Huibers won the pin shot on the eighth hole.

The men played their weekly modified-Stableford system match April 15 and Dave DuVernay came out on top with a plus-7. Quentin Talbert was a point back in second, while Tom Solosky took third with a plus-5.

The Key Royale women played a nine-hole individual-low-net match in two fl ights April 16. Pam Lowry fired a 4-under-par 28 to grab first place in Flight A. Barb Rinckey and Roxanne Koche finished in a tie for second at 3-under-par 29.

Janet Razze carded a 4-under-par to grab first place in Flight B, a stroke ahead of Gloria LaDue.

intuitive Foundation’s Henry leibfried emerges from a pack of players including Am i Coconuts ruthie Ball and phoenix Harwood during 8-10 division soccer action at the Center of Anna Maria island. islander photo: Kevin p. Cassidy

BElOW: roger rottschaffer, left, pam rottschaffer, Andi Saia and Dale Miller pause on the putting green April 12 on winning the Key royale Club Farewell Scramble. islander photo: Courtesy KrC

Members capped the week of organized golf April 18 with a “ramble/scramble” with two scores counted from each team. The team of Mike Gille, Jenny Huibers, Scott Mitchell and Warren Stevens combined on a 3-over-par 67 to earn clubhouse bragging rights for the day. The team of Mike Clements, Mike Cusato, Dale Hudson and Greg Shorten matched the 4-over-par 68 carded by Ron Buck, Brian Comer, Jeff Greiner and Deb Richardson for a tie for second place.

Horseshoe news

Tim Sofran and John Yarouch posted the lone undefeated record in pool play to win the April 17 horseshoe competition at the Anna Maria City Hall pits.

Three teams advanced to the knockout stage during the April 20 games with the bye going to Tom Farrington and Gary Howcroft. The team of Sofran and Bob Rowley were trailing Bob Hawks and Dom Livedoti 19-5, but rallied for a 26-19 victory to advance to the championship game, where Sofran and Rowley edged Farrington and Howcroft 21-19 to earn the day’s bragging rights.

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

There is no charge to play and everyone is welcome.

Cassidy

Calm conditions allow anglers to migrate, hookup in Gulf

By Capt. Danny Stasny islander reporter

With winds subsiding, Anna Maria Island anglers are venturing into the Gulf of Mexico to take advantage of the catch available in the calm, clear waters.

Ledges, reefs and wrecks are good places to start as most species of fish gravitate toward these areas of structure in search of a meal. Migratory species, including kingfish, Spanish mackerel and cobia, can be found in these areas. Free-lining live bait such as shiners and sardines works well for the macks and kings, while pinfish are luring the cobia to the hook.

Bottom fishing is heating up, too. Mangrove snapper can be found around artificial reefs and on hard bottom areas in 50 feet of water or less. When fishing these areas be prepared to hook into numerous juvenile grouper as they are abundant in the shallower depths.

You might encounter goliath grouper and sharks in the same areas, which will devour the fish in the same areas you’re reeling up. When this occurs, you might as well move to another spot because these apex predators are determined and will eat every fish you hook.

Moving inshore, spotted seatrout are being found on most grass flats where good tidal movement exists. Free-lined live shiners work well as bait.

On deeper flats, it can be beneficial to add a splitshot to the rig to get your bait down in the strike zone. Redfi sh are more apparent as the water temps rise. Finding groups of fish on shallow grass flats also should become easier in the weeks to come.

As for snook, casting baits against mangrove shorelines is effective, although we are waiting for the mass numbers of fish to show.

Don’t forget to listen to the Allman Brothers Band while you’re out there on the water. The universe has some good Southern rock to listen to. If you know, you know.

On my Just Reel charters, I’m putting my time into the Gulf of Mexico. Pelagics such as kingfish and Spanish mackerel are keeping my clients busy as fish peel line off the reels before realizing they’ve been tricked into eating a shiner with a long shank hook in it. Most of the macks are large — measuring 20-24 inches. As for the kingfish, 10-20 pounds are average.

Fishing over hard bottom areas is yielding action on my charters. Red grouper and gag grouper are being caught up to 20 inches in length. Although just short of keeper-size, these fish are fun to reel up before being released back to the depths.

Mangrove snapper are going in the cooler, as most are measuring 15-18 inches.

Large bull sharks are present in the areas with snapper. So reeling them up quickly is imperative. In the same areas, I’m seeing flounder up to 18 inches, but spotted seatrout are the most consistent, with many fish falling in the slot of 15-19 inches. Just as many are being released from the over-slot size.

Also, I’m finding sporadic snook and redfish action while working the shallow flats of Tampa Bay.

Capt. David White of Anna Maria Charters says his clients are catching a lot of kingfi sh and Spanish mackerel in the Gulf of Mexico. Free-lining live

success

Along for the guided trip were Gray’s mom, Elizabeth Daggett, and Matt’s dad, Jeff Cormier. The relatives were on AMi for a family vacation. And, according to Elizabeth Daggett, their captain “was incredible and we kept some of the fish and had a fantastic dinner of grilled kingfish.” islander Courtesy photo

shiners as bait works best to attract these high-speed predators to the hook.

When targeting the kings, use of some hardwire is required to guard the leader from their razor-sharp teeth.

As for the macks, a large shank hook tied to some fluorocarbon leader will suffice. While targeting these species, White’s anglers are hooking into some bonito.

Moving inshore, White is finding over-slot redfish on shallow grass flats where good tidal flow exists. Casting live shiners or shrimp to the reds is triggering a bite. Snook are being caught in similar fashion, although only live shiners are working as bait for the linesiders.

Working the deeper grass areas is resulting in numerous spotted seatrout. Sizes are varying, depending on the spot being fished, but under-size, over-size and slot-size fish are being caught.

Capt. Johnny Mattay of Anna Maria Charters is finding good action for his clients offshore in the Gulf of Mexico. Pelagic species are the highlight this week for Mattay and working the offshore wrecks is yielding blackfin tuna. These feisty tuna are also readily taking offerings of live shiners as bait.

Another pelagic species being caught is kingfish. These fish are taking live shiners but the use of a wire leader is required due to the razor-sharp teeth of the

kings.

Bottom fishing for reef species also is resulting in action for Mattay’s anglers. Both frozen and live baits are attracting red grouper, as well as a variety of snappers, including mangrove and yellowtail.

Moving inshore, Mattay is finding over-slot redfish while working the shallow grass flats. Most catches are measuring 30-35 inches. Live shiners and shrimp are working as bait. Finally, spotted seatrout are frequently being caught while fishing deeper flats.

Capt. Warren Girle is back on the water after a hiatus, finding migratory species while working structure in the Gulf of Mexico, where free-lined live shiners are attracting attention from a variety of fish — macks, bonito, kingfish and cobia.

Girle says each day is different so he’s working numerous spots to target the migratory fish.

Moving inshore, Girle is pleased to put clients on many slot- and over-slot spotted seatrout. Free-lined shiners with a split-shot added to the rig is sealing the deal for the trout. In many instances, the trout are in depths of 10 feet or more, which requires the addition of a split-shot to get the bait down in the strike zone.

While working the shallow flats of Sarasota Bay, Girle is finding pockets of snook and redfish, with most action occurring around mangroves and oyster bars.

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

Stasny

Kingfish kids Matt Cormier, 17, of Chelmsford, Massachusetts, and Gray Daggett, 11, of rowayton, Connecticut, fished April 15 with reel Experience Fishing Charters and found

with the kingfish bite.

Nesting notes

By Masha Dolgoff

1st sea turtle patrols launch

Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring hit the beaches April 15, conducting its first Anna Maria Island patrols of the 2024 nesting season.

The start date was recommended by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission owing to the years when AMITW found nests earlier that the offi cial start of nesting season, which is May 1, said Kristen Mazzarella, executive director of AMITW.

The first nest AMITW observed in 2023 was April 18.

In 2022, AMITW found the first nest May 4.

Sea turtle nesting season runs until Oct. 31. During the season, female sea turtles come ashore on Anna Maria Island to dig their nests and deposit eggs. The eggs incubate in the sand for about 55 days and then the hatchlings emerge to make their way to the Gulf of Mexico.

AMITW will patrol daily “until the last nest has hatched,” Mazzarella told The Islander April 18.

As of that date, AMITW had not identified any nests.

While they look for nests, the turtle watch team also checks for properties along the beach that might need to alter their lighting at night. Improper lighting

Do’s and don’ts for sea turtle nesting season

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission recommends people follow these guidelines for sea turtle safety:

• DO turn off or adjust lighting along the beachfront to prevent nesting sea turtles from becoming disoriented and moving toward the glow of light on land, instead of natural light reflecting on the surface of the water. indoor lights should be turned off, with curtains closed after dark, and outdoor lighting should be turtlefriendly bulbs. Use fixtures low to the ground and shielded from view at the shoreline.

• DON’T use flashlights or camera flashes on the beach at night. They can distract nesting sea turtles and cause them to return to the water.

• DO clear the way at the end of the day. Nesting female sea turtles can become trapped, confused or impeded by gear left on the beach at night. remove items such as boats, tents, rafts and beach furniture and fill in holes or level sand castles before dusk. Holes trap turtles and can injure people.

Call code enforcement to report unattended property or large holes on the beach.

City of Anna Maria code enforcement — 941-708-6130, ext. 139 or ext. 129.

City of Bradenton Beach code enforcement — 941-778-1005, ext. 280.

City of Holmes Beach code enforcement — 941-778-0331, ext. 260.

report sick, injured, entangled or dead sea turtles to the FWC Wildlife Alert Hotline, 1-888404-3922, #FWC or *FWC on a cellphone or text Tip@MyFWC.com.

For more, contact AMiTW director Kristen Mazzarella, 941-301-3484, email info@islandturtlewatch.com or go online to islandturtlewatch.com.

Making tracks to the Gulf of Mexico

can interfere with nesting and hatchling activity, as lights can disorient sea turtles.

AMITW also looks for shorebirds exhibiting courtship and nesting behavior, Mazzarella said. The volunteers will post stakes to protect shorebird colonies if they nest on Anna Maria Island.

This season, about 30 volunteers are involved in patrols, up from around 15 in 2023. Five volunteers will assist with collecting data and bringing out equipment, as AMITW is only allowed 25 volunteers on its state permit.

AMITW patrols the Gulf shore with UTVs and travels by foot along the bay front nesting beaches. AMITW will be using a donated GPS system to accurately record nest locations.

What to watch for

What does a sea turtle see?

One measure to determine if beachfront lighting is a problem is to walk after dusk to the water’s edge, crouch low near the waterline and look landward.

If you see light, a sea turtle also might see the glow.

When female sea turtles come ashore, they have one purpose — to lay their eggs in the sand. They typically aren’t looking around but they do feel their way with their flippers, seeking the right texture and temperature in the sand for their eggs.

Lights on land can distract the females and might

AMiTW volunteer lee Zerkel watches a female sea turtle on her return to the Gulf of Mexico. The rare occurence of a daytime nesting event was in June 2006.

The loggerhead came ashore in the morning, laid its nest of about 100 eggs, covered it with sand and returned to the high surf from tropical storm Alberto. islander File

“We’re really excited about that because we’re not going to have as many stakes on the beach that could get damaged or washed out,” Mazzarella said.

Turtle watch uses stakes to monitor nests and also alert people to avoid them.

“We can re-find them if the stakes wash away,” she said of marked nests.

Turtle Talk time

For people who want to learn more about sea turtle nesting, AMITW will host a series of Turtle Talks at Holmes Beach City Hall, 5801 Marina Drive, starting at 10-11 a.m. Tuesday, May 7, and continuing on Tuesdays through August.

For more information, go online to islandturtlewatch.com, email info@islandturtlewatch.com or call 941-301-8434.

cause the turtle to head toward the light on land rather than the twinkle of the moon and stars on the water.

Keep in mind, this is the only time a sea turtle leaves the familiarity of the water.

And, once on land, female turtles are unaccustomed to immovable objects, such as lawn chairs and volleyball posts, canopy poles and benches. These items are obstructions that sea turtles are incapable of maneuvering.

So now that you “think like a sea turtle,” have a little respect: Keep the beach dark and clear of obstructions.

— Bonner Joy

Mazzarella

Dolgoff

AMiTW volunteer Skip Coyne marks the first sea turtle nest of the season — May 3, 2021 — with stakes and rope. islander File photo

Sea turtle tracks May 5, 2021, lead to the dunes near Fern Street in Anna Maria. The nest was the first of the season. islander File photo

photo

By Lisa Neff

Treemendous benefits

A new tree will grow at city field in Holmes Beach.

Another will grow at Villa Rosa Park in Anna Maria.

And others will grow at the Annie Silver Community Center in Bradenton Beach because the island municipalities, in partnership with local organizations, will celebrate National Arbor Day on Friday, April 26.

Arbor Day, promoted by the Arbor Day Foundation, is observed the last Friday in April.

On the day, we’re encouraged to celebrate with community tree plantings, as well as to undertake plantings at home, where possible.

Arbor Day’s origin is the Great Plains — in Nebraska — where in April 1872 a man named J. Sterling Morton called for setting aside a day for planting and calling attention to trees.

Nebraskans are said to have planted a million trees on the first Arbor Day.

Later, in Lisle, Illinois, Morton’s daughter Joy founded the Morton Arboretum, a destination for students in the Chicago suburbs, including myself decades ago.

Visitors to the Morton learn about oaks and acorns, where to plant seedlings and how to make tree jokes — What’s a tree’s worst month? Sep-timber.

Visitors learn about the value of trees.

Consider the following: 100 trees remove 53 tons of carbon dioxide and 430 pounds of other air pollutants per year.

One hundred mature trees catch about 139,000 gallons of rainwater per year.

Strategically placed trees save up to 56% on annual air- conditioning costs.

Consumers shop more frequently and longer in treelined commercial areas and willingly spend more.

Each large front-yard tree adds to a home’s price.

Want to know more?

Some of the best resources for calculating tree benefits come from i-Tree, which maintains a website at itreetools.org created through a public-private partnership involving the U.S. Department of Agriculture Forest Service, Davey Tree Expert Co., the Arbor Day Foundation, Urban and Community Forestry Society, International Society of Arboriculture, Casey Trees and SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry.

If you want to check out the site, set aside some time to explore the resources, which include tools to:

• Assess the benefit of individual trees.

Using this tool, I calculated the benefits of a live oak in my yard, which, over 20 years, will sequester 3,951.71 pounds of carbon, intercept 85,630 gallons of rainfall, remove 8.89 ounces of carbon monoxide and 25.35 ounces of nitrogen dioxide from the air and save $369 in energy costs.

• Calculate a community’s tree canopy.

lEFT: researchers Jacqueline Nguyen and Simon Ho with Australian Museum bird specimens. The scientists were involved in a study that determined the family tree of modern birds. islander photo: James Alcock ABOVE riGHT: A graphic shows divergence times for 363 bird species. islander image: Courtesy Josefin Stiller

Scientists reveal ‘Tree of Life’ for modern birds

A scientific team announced earlier in April that they determined the family tree of modern birds and pinpointed the timing of bird evolution.

The fi ndings were published in the journal Nature and the scientific work was heralded as the largest study of modern bird genomes, combining genomic data of more than 360 bird species with data from nearly 200 bird fossils to reconstruct the ‘Tree of Life” for modern birds.

The research revealed that most modern bird groups appeared within a small evolutionary window of 5 million years, supporting the hypothesis that birds made the most of opportunities after an asteroid struck Earth 66 million years ago causing a mass extinction event that destroyed all nonavian dinosaurs.

Australian Museum/Flinders University avian paleontologist Jacqueline Nguyen said fossil information was used to work out the timescale of the bird family tree.

“By combining evidence from nearly 200 bird fossils, we were able to pinpoint an extremely

Using this tool, I checked out the canopies and benefits of trees in the island cities.

Anna Maria’s tree canopy is estimated at 5.36% of the city — about 25 acres — compared with 54.38% impervious surfaces over 257 acres.

Carbon sequestered by trees is estimated at 34 tons per year.

Plantable space in the city is estimated at about 262 acres.

A 10% increase in canopy area, 25 acres to 28 acres, would annually add storage of 82 tons of carbon and remove another 227 pounds of air pollution, as well as eliminate another 53,204 gallons of stormwater runoff.

Bradenton Beach’s tree canopy is estimated at 3.7% on 12 acres compared with 92.18% impervious surfaces over 305 acres.

Trees in BB sequester 17 tons of carbon per year.

A scorecard estimates 443 plantable acres in BB, although a lot of that space may be beach.

Increasing the canopy just 10%, from 12 acres to 13 acres, would add 40 tons of carbon storage per year, avoid 25,704 gallons of stormwater runoff and remove an extra 109 pounds of air pollution.

Holmes Beach’s tree canopy covers 89 acres — about 8.31% in the city —compared with 50.87% impervious surfaces on 545 acres.

important period of bird diversification that happened immediately after the extinction of the dinosaurs,” Nguyen said.

The new research also involved professors at the University of Copenhagen, University of CaliforniaSan Diego, Zhejiang University and the University of Sydney.

Earlier studies established that 10,000 species of living birds form three major groups — about 500 species belong to the flightless ratites group or the landfowl-waterfowl group but all other birds form a third large and diverse group called neoaves.

The latest study established a much deeper understanding of relationships in the neoaves group.

The genomes, for example, revealed a new subgrouping of birds researchers named “elementaves” — inspired by the ancient elements of earth, air, water and fire. The group includes birds that are successful on land, in the sky and in water, including pelicans, shorebirds, swifts, hummingbirds and penguins.

— lisa Neff

Trees in HB sequester 121 tons of carbon a year.

The tool estimates plantable space in Holmes Beach at 588 acres.

A 10% increase in canopy area, 89 to 98 acres, would add 288 tons of carbon storage per year, reduce stormwater runoff by another 187,087 gallons and remove an additional 796 pounds of air pollution.

Planting a tree per city on Arbor Day is beneficial, educational, inspirational, ceremonious. It’s also a way to seed a movement to plant even more trees. We want AMI to be known for its white sandy beaches but also for mangrove dense canals, community microforests and shady pocket parks.

Nature Play Festival at Robinson Preserve NEST

Manatee County Natural Resources Department will stage an all-ages Nature Play Festival 5:30-7 p.m. Friday, April 26.

People are invited to “come play in nature” by building forts, searching for birds, learning to read maps and more.

The event will be at the NEST at Robinson Preserve South, 840 99th St. NW, Bradenton.

For more information, call the natural resources department at 941-742-5923.

Neff

ITEMS FOR SALE

lOVElY KiNG QUilT, $25, bookcase, new, 28 by 12 inches, $30. 570-704-8486.

BOSU HOME GYM, $35, exercise ball, $25, side tables, round, glass top, 2/$19, black chairs, soft leather 2/$20. 941-920-2494.

ANT i QUE PA r TNE r DESK: All wood, $500. inquire at The islander office, 315 58th St. Suite J, Holmes Beach. 941-778-7978.

ESTATE SALES

FREEBIE ITEMS FOR SALE

individuals may place one free ad with up to three items, each priced $100 or less, 15 words or less. FrEE, one week, must be submitted online. Email classifieds@islander.org. (limited time offer).

GARAGE SALES

KEY r OYA l E MOV i NG/DEMO SA l E. 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday, April 27. Two homes, appliances, furniture, clothes, everything must go! Follow Key royale Drive to 608613 Concord lane, Holmes Beach.

SERVICES Continued

APi’S DrYWAll rEPAir: i look forward to servicing your drywall repair needs. Call 941-5248067 to schedule an appointment.

ClEAN TECH MOBilE Detailing. At your location. Cars, boats, rVs. Call or text Billie for an appointment. 941-592-3482.

PC O r TECH issues? Not sure where to start? With years of experience, i’ll come to you with reliable solutions. Contact Gavin at 928-587-1309. www.gse.codes.

DEMO li T i ON ESTATE SA l E: All must go! 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday, April 27. 201 67th St., Holmes Beach. r attan sofa, chair, coffee and end table, Poang rocking chair, chrome and vinyl dinette set, tulip base dinette set, bar stools, two sets twin and full beds, sofa sleeper, dresser, mirrors, area rug, coffee tables, Whirlpool stove and refrigerator, Frigidaire stove, Americana refrigerator, microwaves, books, floor, table and ceiling lamps; coastal decor, linens, stackable GE washer and dryer, doors, windows, cabinets, knobs, two rheem 30-gallon water heaters, Keter storage box, patio table and chairs, sinks, toilets and much more! Pictures: www.estatesales.net Sale by Julie McClure. Paradise Improvements

941.792.5600

TRANSPORTATION

GO l F CA rT r ENTA l S: Fun for residents and tourists! 212-941-2402. www.GolfCartrentalAMi com.

2006 ClUB CAr street-legal golf cart. Sixpassenger, red and white, upgraded, $2,550. 612-790-0960.

E l ECT ri C B i KE, DAYMAK Wildgoose fat-tire bike. 2018 model, used very little, battery range down to about six miles. $500. Text or call, 616490-3814.

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.

SUNCOAST BOTTOM PAiNTiNG: Professional bottom painting. Mobile. Call 941-704-9382.

CAPTA i N FO r H ir E and boat caretaker services: if you need help with your boat on or off the water, call Captain Dan. USCG, retired. 772486-8085.

21-FOOT CUDDY CABiN with 225 Evinrude and trailer, $15,000. Call Captain Fred, 941-3561456.

HELP WANTED

PA r T-T i ME DOCKMASTE r position available. 8-10 hours per week. Dock On The Bay Marina. Contact 941-3136496.

NOW H iri NG HANDYMAN: Full-time professional services. $18 an hour and up, based on experience. Call JayPros, 941-962-2874.

r EPO rTEr WANTED: Full- to part-time. Print media, newspaper experience required. Apply via email with letter of interest to news@islander. org.

KIDS FOR HIRE

K i DS FO r H ir E ads are F r EE for up to three weeks for i sland youths under 16 looking for work. Ads must be placed in person at The i slander office, 315 58th St. Suite J, Holmes Beach.

SERVICES

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. 941-756-4570.

PrESSUrE WASHiNG, PAVEr sealing, driveway, roof, fence, pool area. Also, window cleaning. licensed and insured. 941-565-3931.

BiCYClE rEPAirS: Just4Fun at 5358 Gulf Drive can do most any bicycle repair at a reasonable cost. Pick-up and delivery available. 941-8967884.

PAiNTiNG: iNTEriOr/EXTEriOr: Sarasota interior painting. Call or text Don, 941-9009398. We are the best high-end painting! Just ask our AMi clients! i’m the owner and the painter. Free estimates. Fully insured licensed business.

U PlUS ME llC: Provides quality coatings for pool decks, driveways, garage floors, patios. Don’t miss out on our pro polishing services, concrete, terrazzo, travertine. 727-623-5050.

PriVATE CArEGiVEr: DO You need help with groceries, doctors’ appointments, cleaning, care for pet, care for elderly or companion. i am looking for a part-time job. i have references and very experienced. i have integrity and i can help you and your loved ones with anything! Sparkles, 941-704-9948.

AFFOrDABlE PrESSUrE WASHiNG and vacation cleaning service. 941-356-1456.

GO rill A D rYWA ll r EPA ir ll C. l et’s solve your drywall problems together. Give us a call at 941-286-0607.

riDEEASY 247 YOUr professional, reliable and courteous car service to airports and events since 2015. You can reach us via text 941-447-7737 or email to mrfort5001@gmail. com. We are available 24/7.

SHEll DEliVErED AND spread. Hauling all kinds of gravel, mulch, topsoil with free estimates. Call larry at 941-795-7775, or “shell phone” 941-720-0770.

W i ND M i T i GAT i ON and four-point inspection package. licensed, insured, references available. Call 941-518-6329.

BUSiNESS-TO-BUSiNESS JD’s Window Cleaning looking for storefront jobs in Holmes Beach. i make dirty windows sparkling clean. 941-9203840.

BEACH SErViCE air conditioning, heat, refrigeration. Commercial and residential service, repair and/or replacement. Serving Manatee County and the i sland since 1987. For dependable, honest and personalized service, call Bill Eller, 941-720-7411. CAC184228.

LAWN & GARDEN

CONNiE’S lANDSCAPiNG iNC. residential and commercial. Full-service lawn maintenance, landscaping, cleanups, hauling and more! insured. 941-778-5294.

COlliNS lANDSCAPE liGHTiNG: Outdoor lighting, landscaping, irrigation services and maintenance. 941-279-9947. MJC24373@gmail.com.

VAN-GO PAiNTiNG residential/commercial, interior/exterior, pressure cleaning, wallpaper. island references. Bill, 941-795-5100. www.vangopainting.net.

HOME IMPROVEMENT Continued

GriFFiN’S HOME iMPrOVEMENTS inc. Handyman, fine woodwork, countertops, cabinets and wood flooring. insured and licensed. 941-722-8792.

iSlAND HANDYMAN: i live here, work here, value your referral. refinish, paint. Just ask. JayPros. licensed/insured. references. Call Jay, 941-9622874.

SCrEENiNG SErViCES: replace your old or ripped window, door or porch screens. Many screen types available. retired veteran here to serve our community! Free estimates, call lane, 941-705-5293.

lOOKiNG FOr ANY home improvement? JrCC Home improvement, handyman service can get the job done. Please, contact us at 413-246-2410. We would love to help.

BMF iNTEriOrS: HOME repairs and more, no job too small. 786-318-8585.

TilE-TilE-TilE: lVT vinyl flooring, all variations of porcelain and ceramic tile supplied and installed. Total bathroom remodels. Many Mt. Vernon references. licensed and insured. Operations manager, 941-226-9671.

CAll HYDrO ClEAN. Full-service pressure washing, sealing. Pavers, travertine and natural stone. Window washing too, up to three stories. Call Jacob, 941-920-2094.

RENTALS

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

PEriCO iSlAND PATiO home for rent. 3Br/2BA, 30-day minimum. Privacy fence/gate, two miles to AMi. Now leasing May through December, 2024. Call or text, 859-771-6423. http://pericoislandrental.com/

AVAilABlE NOW AND season: 1Br/1BA, sevennight minimum. carlesvacationrentals.com. Special rates are available. 941-807-1405.

HOlMES BEACH 2Br/2BA island home. Vaulted ceilings, walkable to beach, restaurants, dog park. Boat slip, furnished. Six-plus months minimum. Call Paige, 513-382-1992, Duncan real Estate.

lOOKiNG FOr ANNUAl rental. Minimum 3Br with a pool and on the water with a lift. Austin, 863-581-3685.

ANNUAl rENTAl. 2/Br1BA duplex. Near Cortez village. Nice quiet area across from bay. Two miles to beach. Full kitchen, in-unit laundry room. Shed. Patio. $1,850/month includes water and Wi-Fi tv. 941-773-1552.

ANNUAl rENTAl: VillA home in Perico Bay Club, Bradenton. Gated and 24-hour security. 2Br/2BA, updated. Updated kitchen, screened deck and two-car garage. Unfurnished. Text 908875-0299 for information.

2025 SEASONAl rENTAl: Just one block from the beach, Single-story 2Br/2BA, screened patio, private backyard. No smoking/no pets. Three-month minimum. Holmes Beach. Call 813-833-4926.

SEASONAl Or ANNUAl rental: 55-plus, friendly community, bottom floor. Sleeps four, 1.5BA. Beach access. $3,400/month. 847-769-9080.

MONTHlY rENTAl AVAilABlE June 11 through December. furnished, all utilities. Off Cortez road, 2 miles from beach, across from bay. Quiet, friendly neighborhood. $2,400/month. 941-7731552. locally owned.

RENTALS Continued

FOr rENT: MAY to December. Anna Maria island condo. Great value, beautiful upgraded 2Br/2Br. incredible water view. Pool, tennis, walk to beach. Private carport. Excellent rental terms. Owner/ renter. Call/email for pictures, 570-239-0431. marketreps@aol.com

ANNUAl rENTAl: JUST 10 minutes to Anna Maria island. 3Br/1.5BA. $2,300 a month. Twocar garage. No pets/smoking. Text to 941-7736544.

ANNUAl: HOlMES BEACH. 3Br/2BA, large balcony, washer/dryer, storage shed, parking for two. Call 603-969-6840.

ANNUAl rENTAl: JUST minutes to Anna Maria island. 3Br/1.5BA. $2,300 a month. Two-car garage. No pets/smoking. 104 55th St., W. Bradenton. Text to 941-773-6544.

CONDO: SECOND FlOOr, 2Br/2BA furnished, full bay views. No pets, no smoking. Six months, $3,650/month. 941-778-2824.

PEriCO BAY ClUB villa: Upgraded 2Br/2BA garage villa. Off-season rate, $3,000/month. Flexible lease. real Estate Mart, 941-356-1456.

REAL ESTATE

WiNNiE MCHAlE, rEAlTOr, 941-5046146. rosebay international realty inc. You need an aggressive and experienced realtor in today’s market! Selling island homes, Sarasota and Bradenton areas. Multi-milliondollar producer! “Selling Homes - Making Dreams Come True.”

WEST BrADENTON CONDO: resort lifestyle, ground-floor 2Br//2BA. Garage. 6.5 miles, 14 minutes from Gulf beaches. $264,900. Call or text, 941-725-4374.

BrADENTON WAlK-A-BOUT downtown at the west end of the riverwalk. Main Street shoppes, art, restaurants, entertainment and events. 2/Br/2BA, balcony and carport. Eight miles direct drive to Gulf beaches. Geri Kenyon, 941-725-4374. Florida Suncoast real Estate.

COASTAl lUXUrY: 4Br/4.5BA, pool, sold turnkey furnished for immediate move-in. Meticulously maintained, never rented, includes golf cart and electric beach wagon for island exploration! An absolute must-see! Call 941-685-6850 or email Team@HuntBrothersrealty.com for more info.

HOlMES BEACH HOUSE: Beach lifestyle, 3Br/2BA. Enjoy a chef’s kitchen, fenced yard, pool and screened porch complete the beach lifestyle. Oversized garage. Minutes from Gulf beaches. $1,599,900. Beth Beckert Call or text, 941-720-3676. Sarasota Global realty.

2Br/2BA HOME for sale. 3,000 sfur. 1,100 sf garage. Steps to beach. $1,449,000. 941-5186329.

You can read it all online at islander.org

By robyn Murrell

Rotary tees off for causes

The Rotary Club of Anna Maria Island took members and friends on a day on the links April 3 for the annual golf tournament at IMG Academy Golf Club in Bradenton.

More than 70 golfers took a swing “fore good.”

The fundraiser brought in $15,000 to support the club’s causes, including the Anna Maria Elementary School Character Education Program, the Rotary Reader Dolphin Literacy Program, the Peace Day Four-Way Test Essay Contest, the Service Above Self Award, high school youth leadership training and a youth Learn to Swim Program.

Several local businesses sponsored the event, including Tyler’s Ice Cream and Beach Bums, along with the Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce.

Club president Kathleen Rylander said via email to The Islander April 19, “We would like to thank all of our sponsors, golfers, volunteers and attendees who made this event happen. Special thanks to Jim McDaniel, who led the efforts, and Joe Vollmann, who worked diligently on the Wagon of Cheer.”

She continued, “And a big thank you to IMG Academy Golf Club for hosting us again this year. It is because of all of you that we are able to raise funds and continue the work we are doing in our community and beyond.”

rotary Club of Anna Maria island Golf Tournament winners rob Alderson, left, Kevin rooney and Steve lyerly, pose April 3 with roger Gignac of rotary. The golfers represented Tyler’s ice Cream in the tournament at iMG Academy Golf Club, 4350 El Conquistador Pkwy., Bradenton. The rotary Club hosted its annual 9th tournament and Wagon of Cheer at iMG after a hiatus due to COViD-19. Over 70 golfers participated in the event, raising $15,000 to support the club's local initiatives, including the Anna Maria Elementary School Character Education Program, the ‘rotary reader Dolphin literacy Program,’ the Peace Day ‘4 Way Test’ Essay Contest, the Service Above Self Award, local high school youth leadership training and the Manatee Title One Youth 'learn to Swim’ program.

PropertyWatch

By Carol Bernard

Island real estate

316 Tarpon St., Anna Maria. a 2,351 sq ft 4BR/4BA pool home on a 8,625 sq ft lot built in 1997 sold 3/29/2024 to Sedemund to 519 AMI LLC for $2,800,000, list price $3,350,000.

610 Bay Blvd., Anna Maria, a 2,616 sq ft 4BR/5BA

BizCal

By robyn Murrell

Thursday, April 25

5-7 p.m. — Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce business card exchange and scholarship presentation, Anna Maria Island Historical Society, 402 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Fee applies. Information: 941-778-1541. SAVE THE DATES

May 2, 8-9:30 a.m., AMI chamber sunrise breakfast at Anna Maria Island Beach Cafe, 4000 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach.

May 9, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m., AMI chamber luncheon, Anna Maria Oyster Bar, 200 Bridge St., Bradenton Beach.

May 10, 12:30 p.m., AMI chamber golf tournament, IMG Academy Golf Club, 4350 El Conquistador Parkway, Bradenton.

May 23, 5-7 p.m., AMI chamber business card exchange with Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring, Timber Creek Golf Course. 4550 Timber Lane, Bradenton. Send calendar listings to robyn@islander.org.

pool home on a 8,085 sq ft lot built in 2022 sold 3/22/2024 by South Bay Cottage LLC to Barta for $5,725,000, list price $5,995,000.

2211 Ave. B, Bradenton Beach, a 1,011 sq ft 2BR/2BA home on a 5,001 sq ft lot built in 1969 sold 3/27/2024 by Young Trust to 2211 Ave B LLC for $895,000, list price $1,199,000.

2312 Gulf Drive N., #109, Bradenton Beach, a 1,180 sq ft 2BR/2BA Sunset Terrace condo built in 1982 sold 3/25/2024 by Salzburg to Theodore & Assoc LLC for $1,050,000, list price $1,050,000.

5400 Gulf Drive, #21, Holmes Beach, a 968 sq ft 2BR/2BA 5400 Gulf Dr Apts built in 1964 sold 3/29/2024 by Forbes to Whipple for $525,000, list price $595,000.

6400 Flotilla Drive, #96, Holmes Beach, a 985 sq ft 2BR/2BA Westbay Point & Moorings condo built in 1978 sold 3/15/2024 by Flotilla Dr 96 LLC to Lyons for $770,000, list price $779,000.

304 58th St., Holmes Beach, a 866 sq ft 2BR/2BA pool home on a 5,184 sq ft lot built in 1985 sold 4/1/2024 by Clough to Leibfried for $890,000, list price $940,000.

4200 Gulf Drive, #108, Holmes Beach, a 1,008 sq ft 2BR/2BA Gulf Sands condo built in 1979 sold 3/26/2024 by 4200 Gulf Dr LLC to RK Rental Prop LLC for $1,100,000, list price $1,185,000.

214 64th St #A, Holmes Beach, a 1,013 sq ft 2BR/2BA pool home on a 8,002 sq ft lot built in 1988 sold 3/29/2024 by Tropical Sunset 2 LLC to Armbruster for $1,400,000, list price $1,450,000.

525 Key Royale Drive, Holmes Beach, a 2,099 sq ft 3BR/3BA pool home on a 11,212 sq ft lot built in 1970 sold 3/26/2024 by Kowalski to Gladden Trust for $2,700,000, list price $2,595,000.

Compiled by Island Real Estate staff. IRE can be reached at 941-778-6066, islandreal.com.