The islander newspaper e edition wednesday, jan 17, 2018 by The Anna Maria Islander Newspaper

Flippin’ for Roser. 16 Privateer marketing. 23

JAN. 17, 2018 FREE

VOLUME 26, NO. 12

AsTheWorldTerns look for meaning. 6 Planners recommend rezone for BB bar. 4

Meetings

On the government calendar. 4

Op-Ed

The Islander editorial, reader letters. 6

10-20 YEARS AGO

From the archives. 7

Irma left HB condos in shambles.8

Happenings

Community announcements, activities. 10-11 Make plans, save a date. 12-13 Laughs go ‘Beyond a Joke.’ 15

Obituaries. 17 FISH charts new heritage trail. 18 County OKs green development for Cortez. 19

Streetlife. 20 PropertyWatch. 20 HB reinforces medical marijuana ban. 21

Light litters the night. 26 Winter fishing is about timing. 29

ISL BIZ

Waterline meets expectations. 30 CLASSIFIEDS. 32

Running for AME. 28

The Best News on Anna Maria Island Since 1992

State strikes bargain with butterﬂy advocate

By Kathy Prucnell Islander Reporter Fraud charges against a perennial Anna Maria Island volunteer will be dismissed if the subject completes a pretrial-diversion contract signed Jan. 3 with the 12th Circuit State Attorney. nancy Ambrose, 59, of Bradenton and formerly of Holmes Beach, turned herself into authorities in May 2017 after being advised of a warrant for her arrest. Several months later, Ambrose the state charged two felony counts: Failing to register as a charity and unlawful charitable solicitation. The charges stem from complaints to city officials in 2014 and 2015 and a Holmes Beach police investigation into Ambrose’s activities for the North American Butterfly Association beginning in October 2014. HBPD’s investigation concluded PLEASE SEE ButteRFLy PAGE 5

Owner holds out hope to preserve treehouse

By Kathy Prucnell Islander Reporter Hold that wrecking ball. Lynn Tran is hoping new talks with the city of Holmes Beach will lead to a compromise to save her treehouse after the U.S. Supreme Court rejected a review of her and her husband’s petition. Tr a n a n d R i c h a r d Hazen’s petition to the high court asked to have an order from the Manatee County circuit court reversed. The lower court order, adopted Tran from the proposed order from the city attorney, sided with the city and denied the couple from proceeding to put approval of the treehouse before the city electorate. The high court declined to review the case Jan. 8, including it in a list of more than 600 denials. Mayor Bob Johnson said the city would PLEASE SEE tReeHOuse PAGE 2

www.islander.org

3 men in ‘shark drag’ video plead not guilty

By Kathy Prucnell Islander Reporter Three men in a video that went viral last year depicting them dragging a shark behind a speeding boat near Egmont Key have pleaded not guilty to charges of animal cruelty. Robert Benac III, 28, of Sarasota, and Michael Wenzel, 21, and Spencer Heintz, 23, both of Palmetto, face two felony counts of aggravated animal cruelty to a blacktip shark. Benac and Wenzel also were charged with a misdemeanor for spearing a blacknose shark the same day. Attorneys from Tampa: Justin Petredis for Benac, Stephen Crawford for Wenzel and Paul Sisco for Heintz, filed the not-guilty pleas Jan. 10 in the 13th Circuit Court. Judge Mark Wolfe was assigned to preside over their cases. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission began investigating PLEASE SEE sHARK PAGE 3

Local home broker uncovers rental scam

By Sandy Ambrogi Islander Reporter If her real estate career ever goes south, a local broker might look at becoming a detective. Jen Bowman and husband Mark are real estate partners on Anna Maria Island. They’ve been in business since 2004 and know the rental industry on the island inside and out. So when Tamy Ball of Ohio contacted Jen Bowman saying she had a bad feeling about a recent vacation rental contract, Bowman took one look and knew the document Bowman was bogus. “I had her send me a screen shot of the invoice and the red flags immediately went up,” Bowman said Jan. 9. “First, there was no resort tax. Everybody legitimate knows there is a 12 percent resort tax added on, period. Then the door code for the lock box was all wrong. It didn’t

make any sense for a U.S. Lock like the ones we use here,” Bowman continued. Ball said in a phone interview Jan. 9, she should have been more savvy about online booking, but it was her first time. “We come to Anna Maria about four times a year. We usually stay in the same place, but it was booked. This guy privatemessaged me quickly after I posted on a Facebook page I was looking for accommodations,” Ball said. The man messaged Ball that she could rent his property, Peach Bellini in Holmes Beach, with a $750 PayPal deposit. He said Ball would save $450 by booking with him and bypassing his rental agency. The scammer then helped Ball set up a PayPal account. “I should have thought something was funny, but it was the holidays. I’m a kindergarten teacher. I have two kids of my own. I was busy and just glad to have somewhere to stay for my spring break trip with other teachers,” Ball said. PLEASE SEE sCAM PAGE 3

Low tide view

Christopher Milne Gething captured sunrise and an extreme low tide Jan. 4 at Tidy Island. Sarasota is in the distance. “It was cold, as you know, but that tends to generate the best sunrises,” he wrote in an email to The Islander.

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Beachgoers were confronted by Lynn Tran asking them not to trespass on her beachfront property during the 2014 beach renourishment project, although beach workers had moved the only path on the beach far back toward Tran’s property line for safety. Tran and husband Lynn Hazen had marked their property with bollards, ropes and “keep out” signs, which further inhibited people on the path. Holmes Beach police were called to ease the tensions. Islander File Photos after-the-fact permit. “Some people might think its looney,” Tran said Jan. 11, but she’s planning to revisit past ideas to keep the treehouse. In January 2017, building official Jim McGuinness rejected Tran’s Dye after-the-fact permit application, pointing to a survey showing it 30 feet seaward of the state erosioncontrol-line setback and a city code that gives no leeway for a variance. McGuiness’ review also cites the lack of a DEP permit for construction seaward of the coastal-construcJohnson tion-control line. He also noted the lowest horizontal member of the deck is “well below” the 19.4-foot required elevation. McGuiness’ memo also criticized the permit application as lacking evidence the structure would be able to withstand a 100-year storm. In her September letter, Tran points to the Florida Building Code, the Holmes Beach Land Development Code, building ordinances, Federal Emergency Management Agency/national Flood Insurance Program and American Society of Civil Engineer guidelines for

a 500-square-foot nonhabitable two-level tree deck. She defends the treehouse has weathered storms in the past — most recently Hurricane Irma in September 2017 — and that potential debris from the structure is no more dangerous than debris from trees and breakaway walls. Tran calls out the LDC for infringing upon property rights by equating the erosion-control line with the mean high-water line in measuring the setback. “It is like calling an apple an orange,” and the state building code should prevail over the city’s LDC in conflicts, she said. Tran also points to beach nourishment projects as creating a “large wide beach to protect upland residents, control erosion,” but says it is “neither uniform nor fair when taking a portion of our land for beach nourishment and public use without compensation” and that the setback prohibits use of their land. Tran estimates the treehouse cost $30,000 to build and said she’s accrued more than $180,000 in attorneys’ fees and costs to litigate the case, and that’s not counting the fines. The city has paid attorneys’ fees and costs of $129,892.17 as of Jan. 12, including $12,761.56 in fees for the U.S. Supreme Court appeal, according to city treasurer Lori Hill.

Unique Pet Portraits

Composited images printed to stretched canvas

6HOƓHV Sunsets PRINTS FROM

tReeHOuse COnTInUED FROM PAGE 1 initiate a conference with treehouse owners Tran and Richard Hazen. Jim Dye, attorney for the city, said Jan. 11 he’s waiting for a return call from David Levin, attorney for the owners, to arrange a meeting. Tran and Hazen built the beachfront structure in an Australian pine in 2011 without the necessary state or city permits — after they say a former city official advised no permits were needed. It was built seaward of the setback on their property, which includes their residence and four rental units named Angelinos Sea Lodge, 103 29th St. The couple and Levin of Icard, Merrill, Cullis, Timm, Furen & Ginsburg of Sarasota have spent five years defending their treehouse to the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, the city code board and in the courts — and failed at each step. They’ve been under city orders to remove the treehouse since July 2013 and a fine of $50 a day effective since July 22, 2015. Emails from people hearing the Supreme Court news poured into city hall, with public sentiment running strongly against the city’s stance. Buoyed by support for the treehouse, Tran plans to ask the city to reconsider last year’s denial of an

THE ISLanDER n Jan. 17, 2018 n 3

sHARK COnTInUED FROM PAGE 1 animal abuse shown in Instagram and Facebook posts, including a 10-second video of a blacktip shark being dragged behind a vessel at a high rate of speed. Manatee County prosecutors issued search warrants and worked Benac with the FWC to access social media accounts. In October 2017, the 13th Circuit State Attorney became involved when investigators determined the alleged offenses occurred in Hillsborough Heintz County. The three men were arrested in December 2017, posted bond and were released. The shark-drag video was taken June 26, 2017, while the men, with friend nicholas Burns Easterling, of Palmetto, formerly of Holmes Beach, Wenzel were on a fishing trip. Easterling was not charged in exchange for his cooperation with FWC and its investigation. Gov. Rick Scott wrote letters in July and December announcing zero tolerance for such abuse. Sport fishers, guides and animal rights activists also condemned the men’s actions, some calling for the men to lose their fishing licenses. Wenzel has a commercial saltwater fishing license. Benac and Heintz are recreational fishers. The three cases are set for a disposition hearing at 9 a.m. Friday, March 6, in the Hillsborough Criminal Court, 401 N. Jefferson St., Tampa.

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The Islander welcomes news of the milestones in readers’ lives — weddings, anniversaries, births, deaths, travels and other events. Submit notices and photographs with detailed captions — along with complete contact information — to news@islander.org.

sCAM COnTInUED FROM PAGE 1 Two weeks later, on Christmas Day, the man messaged Ball saying a rate increase had been decided at an owners’ meeting, and, if she paid the balance of $900 by Dec. 30, 2017, she would avoid the rate increase. “Again, I should have known but I never thought I would be scammed,” Ball admitted. On Jan. 8, a friend saw a post on the same Facebook page saying the property was available for March 24-31 and pointed it out to Ball. “I laughed, then I got worried. I contacted Jen Bowman, who looked like a legitimate Realtor and could help me sort it out,” Ball said about selecting Bowman at random from ads. After seeing the screen shot of the invoice, Bowman, an agent with Keller Williams on the Water, switched to detective mode. Searching property rolls, she established the rental offered did not belong to Bill Fleming, the name used to scam Ball. Bowman also determined there is no such agent in Florida and Bill Fleming Co. is not registered with the state. Bowman located a Bill Fleming Co. in Illinois and contacted the office with news the name was being used in a vacation rental scam on Anna Maria Island. Facebook also was contacted, and shut down the fake profile. An IP address also was being back-traced, but Bowman believes the perpetrator is from Europe. “The date on the invoice was written out of order,” she said. On further inquiry, a property search by The Islander revealed what was falsely offered for rent as the Peach Bellini is a duplex unit owned by Tracy and Adam Wilson of south Tampa. When contacted by phone Jan. 14, the pair said they had no idea their property was involved in a rental scam and urged potential renters to stick with wellestablished island rental agents or dedicated rental sites, such as VRBO or Home Away. “As property owners, we are disappointed this has happened because it reflects negatively on Anna Maria

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The scammer’s invoice submitted to the renter for payment. Islander Courtesy Photo

Island. I don’t know what jurisdiction it would be, since the scam crossed state lines, but we are in favor of prosecution,” Adam Wilson said. Tracy Adams advised potential renters to never pay more than a deposit months in advance. Ball’s story may end with her credit card company reimbursing her losses and PayPal made aware of the scam. She made a police report in Ohio on the advice of her credit card company, though none was made on Anna Maria Island. Bowman’s advice? Book through a legitimate source. If someone is pressuring you or offering to forego taxes, etc., steer clear. If it seems too good to be true or seems a bit off, it probably is. And do some detective work in advance of your booking online. Ball said she hopes to retire to Anna Maria Island one day, but, in the meantime, will continue to visit AMI.

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Bridge Street restaurant, bar get P&Z nod for zoning change

By ChrisAnn Silver Esformes Islander Reporter The Bradenton Beach Planning and Zoning Board came to a big conclusion for one Bridge Street establishment. Six months after hearing several requests from representatives of the Bridgetender Dockside Bar and Restaurant, the P&Z board voted Jan. 10 to recommend approval of the restaurant’s change to a major development and a comprehensive plan amendment to the city commission. Darenda Marvin, senior land planner with Grimes Goebel Grimes Hawkins Gladfelter & Galvano of Bradenton, represented the Bridge Tender Inn and Dockside Bar, and its owner Fred Bartizal, also a P&Z Bartizal board member at the quasi-judicial hearing. Marvin asked for an amendment to the future land-use designation for the commercially zoned property operating on Sarasota Bay as the restaurant’s dockside bar, on the east side of Bay Drive South. Additionally, Marvin petitioned the board to recommend the property be designated as a major development, owing to its increased size. City land planner Alan Garrett recommended the amendment and the change to a major development. The previous board had agreed at a hearing in June 2017 that it needed more information, but after losing four members in August, lacked a quorum for meetings. The hearing was continued until the new appointments were made. Bartizal, a recently appointed member, formally recused himself from the decision-making and declined to take part in the discussion, instead joining the gallery for the Jan. 10 hearing. Currently, the property’s land-use designation is public semi-public. Marvin said the parcel, which was part of a land swap between the city and Bartizal in 2001, wasn’t reclassified after the swap. She said it should be designated mixed-use bridge commercial, the same as the surrounding properties. It is zoned C2 commercial. When the parcel on the opposite side of the road was approved for open-air dining in 2012, the city required a unity of title between the two properties. The unity of title satisfied the requirement that open-air dining be tied to the restaurant on Bridge Street, which also removed parking requirements for the outdoor seats. According to Marvin, when the area was approved for open-air dining, the operation was small. Since 2012, the restaurant has expanded seating to more than 100 seats. “Over time we got larger and now we are just trying to get proper approval,” Marvin said. “It’s not

Bay Drive South separates an open-air bar on the water from the restaurant at the Bridge Tender Inn and Dockside Bar, 135 Bridge St., Bradenton Beach. Islander Photo: Jack Elka

appropriate at this stage to ask, ‘Should there be a restaurant here?’ That has already been approved.” Marvin said the restaurant is licensed by the Florida Department of Business & Professional Regulation for 163 indoor and 109 outdoor seats. She said that as the restaurant uses only 132 indoor seats, they would like to up the outdoor dining area to 120 seats. P&Z concerns In June, board members said they were concerned that the bar and restaurant were intersected by Bay Drive South, requiring employees and patrons to cross the street, which would jeopardize the health, safety and welfare of the public. Marvin said she has reviewed police reports of incidents at the Bridgetender and none were related to vehicle-pedestrian interaction. Additionally, Marvin said the restaurant employs “expos,” who wear bright clothing and are trained to run food and drinks between the two locations, as well as a parking attendant, who assists patrons parking along Bay Drive South. Garrett also pointed out there is a rope-and-bollard system defining the crossing area. During public comment, former Mayor Bill Shearon said there is heavy pedestrian traffic on Bay Drive South, and bicycle traffic is likely to increase when a planned islandwide path is constructed. Shearon proposed the restaurant install a sidewalk along Bay Drive South. “There has not been an accident there, but I fear if this is approved, the city is opening itself up for a real liability issue,” Shearon said. P&Z vice chair Jim Lynch agreed with Shearon, saying he is unsure that a previous commission intended, in making its approval in 2012, for the out-

Anna Maria considers family insurance for employees

By Bianca Benedí Islander Reporter The city of Anna Maria may soon offer its employees family health care insurance. City commissioners agreed Dec. 28, 2017, to bring a resolution to their next meeting to authorize a new care plan for the remainder of the fiscal year, which began Oct. 1. City clerk LeAnne Addy said the city was accepted into the Florida League of Cities’ “competitive” health insurance plan. Previously, she said, the city was rejected because the staff’s average age was too high. With a switch to the FLC plan, the city has the option to offer insurance coverage to an employee’s family, Addy said. Estimating five employees would cover spouses and kids, four would cover spouses and three would seek single coverage, Addy said the city could expect a financial impact of about $25,606.84 for the 2017-18 fiscal year. The city would pay 80 percent of the cost of the employee’s extended insurance coverage. Commissioner Doug Copeland, serving at the meeting as vice mayor in Mayor Dan Murphy’s absence, spoke in favor of the motion. “My feelings are, I’ve always been an advocate for trying to give

the best package that we can to our staff.” Copeland said the city has seen a decrease in turnover from “when we were paying $10 an hour to a contract employee.” He said employees on the public works staff in particular had to be replaced on a monthly and bimonthly basis in the past. “I see the job that our staff does,” Copeland said. “I think we’ve made a lot of progress in the four and a half years I’ve been on this commission.” Copeland said the “negligible” $25,000 price tag is reasonable for the city to pay. Commissioner Carol Carter agreed, adding that 80 percent coverage gives families some incentive “not to run to a facility for sneezes and that kind of thing.” Commissioner Dale Woodland said it would be best to shop annually for health care packages, given that health care is currently “in flux” in the United States. Addy said she looked at all benefits yearly, including dental, life and health insurance. The added cost for the family coverage would come from a contingency fund, she said. A resolution will be brought to the city commission meeting at 6 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 25, at city hall, 10005 Gulf Drive.

door seating area to expand to the extent is has. Additionally, he said the lot in question does not abut Bridge Street, but only is permitted because of unity of title. “Did they intend for open-air dining without parking to take place on Bay Drive South?” Lynch asked. “We’re now going down the side streets and I imagine it’s a matter of time before we’re going up the outer rim if all it takes is a unity of title to achieve it.” Approved with stipulations Following Garrett’s recommendation, the P&Z unanimously approved the future land-use change from public semi-public to mixed-use bridge commercial. The second motion, to change the Bridgetender’s designation to a major development, passed 3-2 with Please see Restaurant, next page

Meetings

Anna Maria City • Jan. 25, 6 p.m., commission. Anna Maria City Hall, 10005 Gulf Drive, 941-708-6130, cityofannamaria.com. Bradenton Beach • Jan. 18, noon, city commission. • Jan, 23, 12:30 p.m., city commission (special). • Jan. 23, 1 p.m., city commission. • Jan. 24, 1 p.m., planning and zoning. Bradenton Beach City Hall, 107 Gulf Drive N., 941-778-1005, cityofbradentonbeach.org. Holmes Beach • Jan. 22, 1 p.m., ad hoc committee on government. • Jan. 23, 6 p.m., city commission. Holmes Beach City Hall, 5801 Marina Drive, 941-708-5800, holmesbeachfl.org. West Manatee Fire Rescue • None announced. WMFR administration building, 6417 Third Ave. W., Bradenton, wmfr.org. Manatee County • Jan. 23, 9 a.m., commission. Administration building, 1112 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton, 941-748-4501, mymanatee.org. Of interest • Jan. 17, 2 p.m., Coalition of Barrier Island Elected Officials, Bradenton Beach City Hall. • Jan. 26, 9:30 a.m., Department of Transportation Barrier Islands Traffic Study Steering Committee meeting, Longboat Island Chapel, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key. • Jan. 30, 4 p.m., council of governments. Bradenton Area Convention Center, 1 Haben Blvd., Palmetto. Send notices to calendar@islander.org and news@islander.org.

THE ISLanDER n Jan. 17, 2018 n 5

ButteRFLy COnTInUED FROM PAGE 1 Ambrose failed to maintain the Anna Maria Island Butterfly Park adjacent to city hall pursuant to a 2008 city contract, hadn’t been authorized to operate the local nABA chapter after 2011 and failed to deliver memorial bricks ordered for placement in the park. Ambrose’s plea includes a 12-month, court-supervised deal with monetary obligations, requiring her to forfeit and permanently close a nABA bank account she opened Aug. 8, 2007. Ambrose was the sole signatory on the SunTrust account, which was allegedly used for some personal expenses. Assistant State Attorney Andrew Van Sickle wrote in a Jan. 10 email that the account closed Dec. 11, 2017. Before closing the account, Ambrose was required to send certified checks for $17,017.88 to Holmes Beach to restore the park and the remaining $28,725.43 of the $45,743.31 balance to NABA, according to Van Sickle. Van Sickle confirmed Jan. 10 both payments were made. Payment of funding for personal items from the account was not required. The city took over the garden in February 2016 and “completely renovated it with new shrubs, planting and pavers,” Holmes Beach Police Chief Bill Tokajer said, adding the park, now called the Memorial Garden, is RestAuRAnt CONTINUED FROM PAGE 4

stipulations, which were accepted by Marvin on behalf of Bartizal. Lynch and Andy Mincieli voted “nay.” The stipulations included compliance with the June 2017 concept plan, storage of outdoor bar and accessories upon notice of a hurricane warning, presence of an on-site parking attendant 5-9 p.m. DecemberMay and submission of permits, plans and surveys to the city engineer for review and coordination with the city’s sea-level rise planning and the master plan for the district.

being “very well maintained” by the city. Holmes Beach Parks and Beautification Committee member Dennis Groh said the committee, with Mayor Bob Johnson, redesigned the park. Public works removed old plants and installed sod, native and Florida-friendly plants, benches with pads, a fountain and irrigation lines. Tokajer said Jan. 11 two boxes containing about 10 bricks ordered by Ambrose were delivered during the investigation — and, according to the pretrial diversion contract, Ambrose was required to pay $1,000 to Holmes Beach to install the bricks. And that’s been received, according to the chief. The brick installation will probably be up to the parks and beautification committee and public works, Tokajer added. Ambrose and Connie Hodsdon of Bradenton started the butterfly park in 1999 on city property on the south side of city hall. Fundraising for the park included the sale of $50-60 engraved bricks. Ambrose also maintained an ongoing fundraising project to build a gazebo at the park. Part of the diversion contract also requires Ambrose to pay $200 to the HBPD and $100 to the state attorney as well as $30 a month for probation and $2 monthly correction training costs. Other terms of the contact require Ambrose not to act as a fiduciary for any charity, to step down from any board or charity advisory position and take an eighthour seminar on fundraising, or regulatory compliance, for a 501(c)(3) charity. According to HBPD’s investigation, Ambrose allegedly failed to register as a charity while soliciting funds. The investigation also revealed Ambrose allegedly organized fundraising events each year for nABA and other charities, including craft shows at the city field in Holmes Beach city field and at Coquina Beach in Bradenton Beach, sometimes with an event company that required nonprofit beneficiaries for events on public property. The principal of the event company told police the

Nancy Ambrose was recognized in 2013 by Lauren Dorsett of ABC 7-TV at the Sarasota station’s awards for local volunteers. Islander File Photo company would not have given money to Ambrose had it known it was not a legitimate nonprofit. Ambrose also has contracted with Manatee County for ongoing markets at Coquina Beach, where she solicited donations. The use of the county-run park requires a charity organization be a beneficiary of the event. County parks and natural resources director Charlie Hunsicker did not return Jan. 11-12 emails requesting the status of the contracts. Ambrose is widely known for volunteering on Anna Maria Island, including for the American Cancer Society Relay for Life, Island Players and the Anna Maria Island Concert Chorus and Orchestra and the Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce. She was an employee of The Islander newspaper in sales and as a community ambassador, sometimes parttime 2003-08, according to publisher Bonner Joy. Her pretrial agreement may end after six months if all conditions are met. “I have nothing to say,” Ambrose said when asked about the plea agreement.

6 n Jan. 17, 2018 n THE ISLanDER

Opinion

Our

What’s it all about?

Do you need a treehouse to find peace and the meaning of life? Or can you walk to the edge of the shore and gaze across the long, smooth surface of the Gulf of Mexico and imagine solving the world’s problems? Is life better with a treehouse than, say, a sunrise? Sunset? Toes in the sand? Family? A good book? Love? Food on the table? A winning lottery ticket? I watched Lynn Tran cry about what I assume must be her worst fear, losing her beloved treehouse, on TV news this past week and all I could think was how trivial, how petty, how self-indulging she was to yearn for a seat on a deck in a tree to gaze upon the world below, when, for instance, other people suffer without food, clean water or a place to sleep. I’d like to escort her to Haiti to see the many thousands of people — men, women, children — who struggle to manage a meal of beans and rice daily. I’d like her to meet a woman who stayed home caring for her sick husband for nearly four years — now left to cherish only her memories. Or, like the people we see on TV who lose everything in a storm, a fire or mudslide, who are grateful to survive without regard to their possessions. There must be someone who could make sense of this treehouse for me because, apparently, I can’t see the treehouse for the trees. I’ve learned there are people all over the world who believe the compilation of falsehoods for how it came to be built on the beach by such innocents that they imagined merely asking a question in passing of a city official amounted to “permission.” Tran and husband Richard Hazen fought in court to take the matter to a public vote, where they assumed people — their fans and no doubt many donors — are in the majority. Save the treehouse. But the sheer audacity combined with snubbing the rules and the money flushed away has built great opposition to the treehouse. Many people comment on The Islander website and Facebook that they hope to see it removed. Many also ask, if this couple keeps their treehouse, where’s mine? That may be the crux of it. If the rules are relaxed for one, will every property owner be allowed a treehouse? While I may not understand the need for a nest in the sky, you should plant your tree today in case your dreams come true. After all, doesn’t money grow on trees? — Bonner Joy

Opinion

Your

Drone photographer and graphic artist Jack Elka “pictures” a treehouse for everyone on Anna Maria Island in the future.

JAN. 17, 2018 • Vol. 26, No. 12 ▼ ▼

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Publisher and Editor Bonner Joy, news@islander.org Editorial Lisa Neff, copy editor Sandy Ambrogi, sandy@islander.org Bianca Benedí, bianca@islander.org Joe Bird, editorial cartoonist Kevin Cassidy, kevin@islander.org Jack Elka, jack@jackelka.com ChrisAnn Silver Esformes, chrisann@islander.org Terry O’Connor, terryo@islander.org Kathy Prucnell, kathyp@islander.org Ed Scott, edscott@islander.org Contributors Jesse Brisson Karen Riley-Love Capt. Danny Stasny, fish@islander.org Advertising Director Toni Lyon, toni@islander.org Office Staff Lisa Williams, manager Christi Burton accounting@islander.org classifieds@islander.org subscriptions@islander.org Distribution Urbane Bouchet Judy Loden Wasco Ross Roberts (All others: news@islander.org)

Single copies free. Quantities of ﬁve or more: 25 cents each. ©1992-2018 • Editorial, sales and production offices: 3218 E. Bay Drive, Holmes Beach FL 34217 WEBSITE: www.islander.org PHONE 941-778-7978 toll-free fax 1-866-362-9821

Post-plunge thanks

What first began as a responsibility 10 years ago has now become something I look forward to every January. That is writing a thank-you note to this publication for its coverage of Clancy’s Shamrock Shiver Charity Plunge. We’ve just celebrated our 10th anniversary of charging into the Gulf to raise money for local kids in need, well exceeding $200,000 in 10 years. While the temperature and winds made for a dicey dive, our hearts were surely warmed by the support of the crowd on Bradenton Beach and the celebration with continued fun-fundraising awaiting us at Clancy’s Irish Pub. A special shout-out to the band Souls On Soul, which helped warm us at the after-party. And huge thanks to all the costumed participants who kicked up the fun factor on the beach. We had dominoes, toucans, a bearded lady (the 2018 winner), shamrocks and a masked Super Plunger, complete with plumbing tool! I was always taught that the biggest part of receiving a gift was the heart of the thoughtful giver and

always, always say thank you. Well, we surely received an abundance of gifts from our supporters, both personal and business, local news organizations and wonderful write-ups from this paper in particular. On behalf of the Shamrock Shiver Committee, we extend our genuine gratitude and warmest wishes for a happy, healthy 2018! Jackie Flahive, Bradenton

Have your say

The Islander accepts original letters of up to 250 words and reserves the right to edit for grammar and length. Letters must include name, address and a contact phone number (for verification). Anonymous letters will not be printed. Email: news@islander.org. Readers also may comment on stories online, where The Islander has 2,500+ registered users. Also, The Islander has an active — 10,900+ likes — Facebook community. To join the conversation, “like” The Islander on Facebook.

THE ISLanDER n Jan. 17, 2018 n 7

Pitching in 1915

Men play horseshoes in 1915 near Pine Avenue and Gulf Drive outside the Anna Maria Community Hall, now the Island Players theater. Horseshoe pits still exist in that area, with games played Wednesday and Saturday mornings. This photo and many other historical images can be found in “Images of America: Anna Maria Island” by Islander publisher Bonner Joy. Islander Courtesy Photo

Laughter abounds in ‘Golden arches’ hoax

Three prank signs touting “McDonald’s Coming Soon” were found Dec. 20, 2017, planted in the ground at the site of the former Bank of America branch near the intersection of East Bay Drive and Manatee Avenue in Holmes Beach. The signs, which were removed by the city, prompted a rash of concerned inquiries to city hall, as well as The Islander newspaper office, about franchises and chain businesses opening on the island. The newspaper’s report on the hoax also generated a buzz. Some of the comments from our Facebook page: Stevie Clapham-Dickenson: “Top marks for the prankster, got them good and proper.” Stephanie Lingner: “Thank goodness it was only fake news!” Linda Mitchell: “Best prank of the year.” Patsy Quick: Keep the fast food chains off the island.” Deneen Smith Knisely: “Hahaha. I’m glad it wasn’t for real.” Debbie Carr: “Phew!!!!”

10&20 years ago In the headlines: Jan. 14, 1998

• A long list of problems with Bradenton Beach’s “streetscape” plan at the Historic Bridge Street Pier and along Gulf Drive was released, raising concerns some of the work would have to be done over. • Bradenton Beach was sprucing up for a fashion shoot. A team of models, photographers and assistants was expected to arrive to shoot an Eddie Bauer clothing catalog. • Anna Maria was expecting to receive about $500,000 in federal Community Redevelopment Block Grant funds to make improvements to benefit low- to moderate-income families in the city. • The “Singing River Cruises” were taking place, with departures out of Cortez aboard a 125-passenger boat. Coordinated and narrated by historian Mary Fulford Green, the cruise traveled from Cortez to the Green Bridge on the Manatee River.

In the headlines: Jan. 16, 2008

Find all weekly editions of The Islander newspaper dating back to its launch in November 1992 online 365 days a year, 24-7, at the University of Florida Digital Library Newspaper Collection at this website: ufdc.ufl.edu.

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• With little fanfare, the U.S. Coast Guard instituted a winter schedule for timed openings on the Cortez and Anna Maria Island bridges. The bridges would be raised on the half-hour on demand during daylight hours Jan. 15-May 15 rather than every 20 minutes. • The Sandbar Restaurant in Anna Maria celebrated the opening of a new outside deck with members of the Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce and project architect Gene Aubry. • Two ficus trees were pulled from the butterfly garden south of Holmes Beach City Hall at the order of Mayor Rich Bohnenberger, who said the place needed cleaning up.

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Environmentalists lose Swiftmud appeal, ordered to pay fees

By Kathy Prucnell Islander Reporter The 2nd District Court of Appeal rejected a challenge to a Southwest Florida Water Management District permit and ordered the environmentalists who challenged it to pay the regulatory agency’s attorneys’ fees. A Jan. 3 order from a three-justice panel affirms Swiftmud’s initial dismissal of the claims made by the petitioners, Suncoast Waterkeeper Inc. and Capt. Kathe Fannon. And, in a separate ruling the same day, justices Nelly N. Khouzam, Daniel H. Sleet and Samuel J. Salario Jr. granted Swiftmud’s motion for legal fees. The ruling stated the petitioners’ argument on appeal was “without merit” and sent the matter to the state Department of Administrative Hearings to determine the amount of the fees. Suncoast Waterkeeper is a nonprofit with a mission to protect and restore waterways in Sarasota and Manatee counties through enforcement, advocacy and education. Fannon operates Captain Kathe & First-Mate PupPup Charters, a Cortez-based ecotour business. In a Jan. 9 email, Ralf Brookes, Cape Coral attorney for Suncoast and Fannon, said he and his clients are “discussing the appellate ruling and attorney fees” with Swiftmud attorneys. “As a public-interest organization, we are disappointed we’re not granted a hearing,” he added. The permit would have allowed Aqua by the Bay developers’ Carlos Beruff and Larry Lieberman to construct a 2.5-mile manmade lagoon and seawall on Sarasota Bay. The petitioners filed the Swiftmud appeal in June 2017 while the lagoon was part of the Aqua plans — but in October 2017, the Manatee Board of County Commissioners agreed to the developers’ 11th-hour revision, which eliminated the seawall and lagoon.

ment of Environmental Protection permit for a developer-operated mitigation bank as improper, imperiling seagrass, mangroves and the ecological habitat. An administrative judge is expected to rule on that challenge in the next few months.

Environmentalists win early nod on another Aqua challenge

Capt. Kathe Fannon of Cortez speaks at a county commission meeting in 2017 against the proposed Aqua by the Bay development. Islander File Photo: Kathy Prucnell Suncoast, Fannon and other environmentalists are fighting the county decision in 12th Circuit Court and consider the Swiftmud appeal still relevant. “Carlos Beruff’s track record is that he’ll always come back for another bite at the apple. Our feeling was to wait … to make sure that the feature was in its grave for good,” said Suncoast’s Andy Mele about maintaining the Swiftmud appeal after the lagoon was removed from the plan. The environmentalists were thrown a bone by the 2nd DCA in its miscellaneous Jan. 4 order, which rejected Swiftmud’s request to be reimbursed for its costs for the suit, but added the agency could refile the request. Aqua was approved for 529 acres between El Conquistador Parkway and Sarasota Bay. A 260-acre mitigation bank on mostly submerged lands is proposed on the site. Suncoast also has challenged the Florida Depart-

Passing its first hurdle in court is a petition by environmentalists hoping to reverse a Manatee Board of County Commissioners’ decision due to the way it went down. In a Jan. 4 order, 12th Circuit Gilbert A. Smith Jr. found the petitioners “demonstrated a preliminary basis for relief” to nullify county approvals given to Carlos Beruff and Larry Lieberman and their companies for Aqua by the Bay. The BOCC approved Aqua’s plans for 529 acres between Sarasota Bay and El Conquistador Parkway, southeast of Cortez. The judge ordered Manatee County to file its response by Feb. 18 to show why the court should not grant petitioners the relief requested. The petitioners are Suncoast Waterkeeper, former Manatee County Commissioner Joseph McClash, Cortez fishing guides Capt. Kathe Fannon and Capt. Katie Scarlett Tupin, and neighbors Larry Grossman, Beverly Hill and Arlene Dukauskas. They are represented by Cape Coral attorney Ralf Brookes. The petition alleges the BOCC skirted due process considerations when it approved a rezone and general development plan — redrawn by the developers during a recess at an Oct. 3, 2017, county hearing — by voting on the revised plan without proper notice and not giving the public an opportunity to review the revised plan. — Kathy Prucnell

Hurricane Irma left condos in shambles at Cayman Cay By Terry O’Connor Islander Reporter Hurricane Irma left a soggy mess at the Cayman Cay Villas in Holmes Beach. A bungled repair exacerbated the damage and costs have yet to be estimated. The storm, which passed over Anna Maria Island Sept. 10, 2017, blew off the roof of one of two condo buildings, leaving 10 units saturated with rain. Recovery began speedily enough. Florida Southern Roofing & Sheet Metal of Sarasota installed a temporary roof within two days. The temp roof remains in place with repairs stalled at the two-story building at 4307 Gulf Drive. The north building was undamaged. Why was the property left to mold and rot for four months after the hurricane? Finger-pointers have plenty of targets. A contractor engaged after the storm to repair the building has done no work. He blames the city’s red tape for his holdup. The contracted property manager hasn’t visited the site or spoken to the condo owners since the storm, according to a condo association board member. The condo association president remains in his Canadian home and has not been back to Holmes Beach to review Irma’s aftermath, also according to a condo board member who asked not to be named. Perhaps most confusing is the permit process, where those involved — city officials, condo association leadership and the contractor — say the other guy is to blame for the delay. The Cayman Cay Villas Condominium Association, with homeowner association fees of $1,500 per quarter, has five board members: president Tony Ratchford, vice president Thomas Knarr, secretary Phil van der Werff, treasurer Tim Perez and Tom Condron. Knarr said Ratchford hasn’t been heard from, which left the association board rudderless. “We’ll have to get rid of him, in my opinion,” Knarr said. Keith Wilking is listed by Holmes Beach Property Management of Tampa as the community associa-

Ten condos flooded Sept. 10, 2017, by Hurricane Irma at the Cayman Cay Villas condominiums, 4307 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, have not been rebuilt or repaired after sustaining water and mold damage. Islander Photo: Terry O’Connor

tion manager for Cayman Cay Villas. Wilking did not return repeated calls from The Islander for comment. “They are worthless,” Knarr said of Holmes Beach Property Management. “You email, call and text. You never get a reply back.” Knarr said he tried to reach Wilking Sept. 28, and has yet to receive a response. “Any problems, you are supposed to go to them and they take care of it,” Knarr said with a wry laugh. General contractor John Fries of Accutech Restoration of Sarasota will continue to play a key role in the condo repair, but he, too, shares blame, some say. Holmes Beach building official James McGuinness said Fries has had permission to work on the condos for nearly four months since the city issued an emergency permit to remove water-damaged materials Sept. 20. Fries refused to comment but, according to Knarr, the Accutech contractor swears McGuinness never issued the temp permit. “I think McGuinness lies,” Knarr said. “I just

don’t trust him. Accutech was given a permit to tear the interior out, but was never told whether they had to tear the building down or elevate it.” The city paper trail is easily doctored, the frustrated condo owner said. Mayor Bob Johnson said he’s satisfied the city has done a proper job. The final hurdle for Accutech is to submit a mechanical plan for new AC and heat for the building. Knarr said Accutech was hired after the hurricane to redo the building down to finished drywall. Condo owners, their insurers and contractors must repair their own units. Before Irma, the condos were valued at $218,000 and up, according to the Manatee County property appraiser’s website. “The next step is going to be Accutech getting their contractors up to speed and tearing the interior out next week,” Knarr said Jan. 8. “Once the drywall is off the walls, you assess the stud damage and go from there.”

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The Folk School at Florida Maritime Museum will offer â&#x20AC;&#x153;Painting with a Fish,â&#x20AC;? a spin on gyotaku, at 9:30 a.m. Thursday, Jan. 25. The fee is $35 and registration is required by Jan. 24. Another class will be offered Thursday, Feb. 1. The museum is at 4415 119th St. W., Cortez. For more information, call 941-708-6120. Islander Courtesy Photo

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Submit your social news to news@islander.org. Please, include the time, date and location for events, as well as a contact name and phone number for publication. And, thanks for sharing! UI

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Annie Silver invites community to dine The Annie Silver Community Center will host three community dinners during the winter season. At the dinner Friday, Jan. 19, the center will serve pulled-pork sandwiches by Big Johns, baked beans and coleslaw with pickles, desserts and drinks. The menu for the Friday, Feb. 9, dinner will include barbecue chicken, mashed potatoes, gravy, coleslaw, desserts and drinks, as well as vegetarian chili. The Friday, March 16, dinner will be a fish fry, with sides of macaroni and cheese, coleslaw and hush puppies, as well as desserts and drinks. Dinners are $8 and served 5-7 p.m. The center is at 103 23rd St. n., Bradenton Beach. For more information, call Linda Yarger at 941778-3580.

Senior Adventures to attend concert, brunch

Senior Adventures will venture to Sarasota Friday, Jan. 19, for a concert and brunch. The group will meet at 9 a.m. at the Annie Silver Community Center, 103 23rd St. n., Bradenton Beach, to depart by van for Sunnyside Village in Sarasota. There, attendees will hear a piano-flute concert and partake in brunch. The ride will cost $5 and the lunch will cost $2. For more information or to RSVP, call Kaye Bell at 941-538-0945.

Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s club plans â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;feel so goodâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; event

The Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Club of Christ Church of Longboat Key will host the Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Wellness Day: Who Knew You Could Feel So Good? The event will be 8:45 a.m.-1 p.m. Monday, Feb. 12, at the church, 6400 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key. The club will host five presenters talking about heart health, brain health and strategies for â&#x20AC;&#x153;living as long as we can.â&#x20AC;? Attendees will dine on a catered lunch and receive a copy of the â&#x20AC;&#x153;Brain Health Coaching Workbook.â&#x20AC;? The cost to attend is $15 and reservations are required. For more information, call Ann Quackenbush at 941-383-1731.

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The Islander welcomes news of the milestones in readersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; lives â&#x20AC;&#x201D; weddings, anniversaries, travels and other events. Send notices and photographs, along with a contact to news@islander.org.

Bingo returning to Annie Silver center

Be one of the many who will attend the seasonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first Thursday night bingo celebration at Annie Silver Community Center. The center, 103 23rd St. n., Bradenton Beach, will host bingo games 6-9 p.m. Thursdays beginning Jan. 18. Center members will call games and serve refreshments, including cake, coffee and soda pop. Also, there will be 50/50 drawings each evening, with proceeds supporting the Bradenton Beach notfor-profit. Also, there will be community dinners at the center Jan. 19, Feb. 9 and March 16. For more information, call Linda Yarger at 941778-3580.

LBK center plans Peace, Love, Paradise Gala

The Paradise Center on Longboat Key is selling tickets to the Peace, Love and Paradise Gala, 5:30 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 28. The evening of dinner, dancing and fundraising will be at the Longboat Key Clubâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Harbourside Ballroom, 3000 Harbourside Drive, Longboat Key. Tickets are $125 per person. Sponsorship opportunities also are available. The Paradise Center is an aging resource center that offers wellness programs, classes, workshops and opportunities to socialize on the key. The center is at 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key. For more information, call the center at 941383-6493.

Kiwanis to explore â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;our schoolsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;

The Kiwanis Club of Anna Maria Island will gather Saturday, Jan. 20, to hear Manatee County School Board Member David â&#x20AC;&#x153;Watchdogâ&#x20AC;? Miner talk about â&#x20AC;&#x153;Our Schools, Our Community.â&#x20AC;? Miner is a member of the club and a past president. The program will be at 8:30 a.m. the Anna Maria Island Beach Cafe at the Manatee Public Beach, 4000 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. Club members and guests will gather for breakfast at 8 a.m. For more information, call Sandy Haas-Martens at 941-778-1383.

Calendar listings

Send announcements for the calendar to calendar@islander.org. The deadline for listings is the Wednesday before the publication date. Please include a contact phone number for publication.

Island happenings

THE ISLanDER n Jan. 17, 2018 n 11

Saturday Art Demos

Time: 10:30 to Noon Jan. 20 - Join Caroline Whitmore as she offers tips on using watercolors.

Jan 27 - Artist Candace Bennington will show how she works in pastels. Paintings - pottery - mixed media - photography - jewelry - unique gifts - cards Visit us online anytime at islandgallerywest.com

Museum curator lectures at library

Jeff Rodgers, provost and chief operating officer of the South Florida Museum, lectures Jan. 11 on reinventing the museum. Rodgers was the first in a winter series of lecturers hosted by the Friends of the Island Library. He discussed expansion of the museum, including plans to develop a children’s STEM learning center. The next lecture, featuring Paul Ferber and titled “On The Prickly Topic – Politics,” will be at 2 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 18, at the library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Islander Photo: Bianca Benedí

Fair fun offered in Palmetto

The Manatee County Fair opened Jan. 11, and continues through Sunday, Jan. 21, in Palmetto. Organizers promise “good food, good rides, good times.’ Events will include a steer show Thursday, Jan. 18, a whip-popping contest Saturday, Jan. 20 and a barbecue contest also Jan. 20. Daily entertainers include the Dennis Lee Show and Rock-It the Robot. Admission will be $8 for those ages 13-54, $5 for children 6-12 and $7 for those 55 and older. The fairgrounds is at 1303 17th St. W., Palmetto. For more information, go online to manateecountyfair.com or call 941-722-8951.

Creative drawing workshop on the table at AMIAL

The Anna Maria Island Art League will host Lori Heintz leading a creative drawing workshop at 1 p.m. Monday, Feb. 12. Heintz has fine arts degrees and has experience as an art instructor for K-12 Schoolcraft Schools. The cost for the class is $45 for nonmembers and $35 for members. AMIAL is at 5312 Holmes Blvd., Holmes Beach. For more information, call 941-778-2099.

Christ Church winter concert series opens

Christ Church of Longboat Key will host the Florida Brass Quartet at 2 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 21, in the first of three winter concerts. Founded in 1986, the Florida Brass Quintet has established itself as one of the best-known ensembles on the west coast of Florida. Concerts feature a mix of standard quintet literature and pops selections. The Presbyterian church is at 6400 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key. For more information, call 941-383-8833.

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Holy Name Society serving up pancakes

Volunteers with the St. Bernard Holy name Society will be serving pancake breakfasts 8-11:30 a.m. Sunday, Jan. 21. The breakfast includes all-you-can-eat pancakes, eggs, sausages, juice and coffee and costs $7. Children 12 and under eat for free. The church is at 248 S. Harbor Drive, Holmes Beach. For more information, call the church at 941778-4769.

AMIAL offers lessons in writing for children

The Anna Maria Island Art League will host a workshop on writing children’s books led by author Susan Huppert, former owner of Homegrown Publications. The workshop will involve three lessons Monday, Jan. 29, Wednesday, Jan. 31 and Friday, Feb. 2. An announcement said the workshop “will cover layouts, marketing, illustrations, choosing our words and much more.” The cost is $40 per student. The art league is at 5312 Holmes Blvd., Holmes Beach. For more information, call AMIAL at 941-7782099.

NOTE: The Islander office is now at 3218 E. Bay Drive next to Paradise Cafe.

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‘Painting on Silk’ rescheduled

The Anna Maria Island Art League will host Mark Mizener leading a workshop titled “Painting on Silk.” The workshop will be 2-5 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 26. The event was rescheduled from Jan. 6. The fee is $60. For more information, call AMIAL at 941-7782099 or visit AMIAL at 5312 Holmes Blvd., Holmes Beach.

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12 n Jan. 17, 2018 n THE ISLanDER

The Islander Calendar ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT ON ANNA MARIA ISLAND

Thursday, Jan. 18 1-3 p.m. — Meet the author opportunity with Sieglinde Martin, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941778-6341. 2 p.m. — Friends of the Island Library lecture, Paul Ferber on “The Prickly Topic — Politics,” Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341. 6-8 p.m. — Artists’ Guild of Anna Maria Island reception for “Dialogue of an Artist,” Studio at Gulf and Pine, 10101 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria. Information: 941-778-6694. Saturday, Jan. 20 10:30 a.m. — Caroline Whitmore demonstrates watercolor techniques, Island Gallery West, 5368 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6648. Wednesday, Jan. 24 12:30-3:30 p.m. — Meet the author opportunity with Cathy Slusser, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341. 1 p.m. — Lifelong Learning lecture, Jim vartuli, “When Science Fails us,” Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341. ONGOING ON ANNA MARIA ISLAND • Throughout January, Marlane Wurzbach exhibits her artwork in “New Horizons,” Island Gallery West, 5368 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6648. • Throughout January, Artists’ Guild Gallery exhibits the work of Mariarosa and Roger Rockefeller, 5414 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6694. • Throughout January, the Anna Maria Island Art League presents “Past to Present Photography,” 5312 Holmes Blvd., Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-2099. • Through Jan. 28, Island Players present “Beyond a Joke,” 8 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday and 2 p.m. Sunday, 10009 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria. Fee applies. Information: 941-778-5755. • Through Feb. 4, Artists’ Guild of Anna Maria Island exhibit, “Dialogue of an Artist,” Studio at Gulf and Pine, 10101 Gulf Drive,

Center brings Sicily to Anna Maria

Chef Robert Gaglio of Italian Culinary Tours addresses an audience of 30 people attending the Center of Anna Maria Island’s lunch-and-learn program: “Taste of Sicily.” Guests Jan. 12 were served a salad with basil, cucumber, tomato, olives and spinach as Gaglio discussed how history affected the development of Sicilian cuisine. Also on the menu, were pasta with pistachio cream sauce and more. The cost to attend was $15 for center members. Islander Photo: Bianca Benedí

Free movies start up in AM

Bring your own lawn chair. Free family fun is coming to Anna Maria at 7 p.m. Wednesday nights at City Pier Park at the corner of Pine Avenue and north Bay Boulevard. Beginning Jan. 17, the city will show a different cinema appropriate for all ages every week. The Jan. 17 movie will be “Smurfs: The Lost Village.” The PG-rated 2017 movie features the hijinks of the Smurfs as they search for the lost Smurf village. Mayor Dan Murphy received city commission approval for the initiative Jan. 5. A goal is to increase visitors to the businesses of Pine Avenue. The city is contracting with Geoff Seger of Palmetto to provide the equipment for movie night for about $200 a week. The royalties for “Smurfs: The Lost Village” will cost an additional $262.50. For more information about Anna Maria’s outdoor cinema, call the city at 941-708-6130. — Bianca Benedí

Anna Maria. Information: 941-778-6694. LOOKING AHEAD ON AMI

8-11 a.m. — St. Bernard Holy Name Society pancake breakfast, St. Bernard Catholic Church, 248 S. Harbor Drive, Holmes Beach. Fee applies. Information: 609-851-0170. Tuesday, Jan. 23 10 a.m. — Preschool Storytime, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341. ONGOING ON AMI

Jan. 28, Roser Memorial Community Church concert, Anna Maria. Feb. 18, Roser Memorial Community Church concert, Anna Maria. March 8-25, Island Players’ “The Curious Savage,” Anna Maria. March 10-11, Anna Maria Island Art League Springfest juried arts and crafts festival, Holmes Beach. March 11, Roser Memorial Community Church concert, Anna Maria. March 25, Roser Memorial • Wednesdays, 5:30 p.m., Wednesday Night Blast, CrossPointe Community Church concert, Anna Maria. May 3-13, Island Players’ Fellowship, 8605 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778“An Inspector Calls,” Anna Maria. 0719. • Wednesdays, 7 p.m. — Anna Maria Family Movies in the Park, OFF AnnA MARIA ISLAnD Pine Avenue and North Bay Boulevard, Anna Maria. Information: Sunday, Jan. 21 941-708-6130. 2 p.m. — Christ Church of Longboat Key winter concert with • Tuesdays, 3:15 p.m., after-school children’s choir, Roser the Florida Brass Quintet, 6400 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key. Memorial Community Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. InformaInformation: 941-383-8833. tion: 941-778-0414. ONGOING OFF AMI • Terrific Tuesdays for community and families, 5:30 p.m., Roser Memorial Community Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Informa• Through Jan. 21, “Aftermath: The Fallout of War” exhibit fea- tion: 941-778-0414. turing work by Lynsey Addario, Jananne Al-Ani, Jennifer Karady, OFF ANNA MARIA ISLAND Gloriann Liu, Rania Matar, Eman Mohammed, Farah Nosh, Suzanne Opton, Michal Rovner, Stephen Dupont, Ben Lowy and Simon Nor- Friday, Jan. 19 folk, John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, 5401 Bay Shore Road, 4:30 p.m. — State College of Florida, Manatee-Sarasota Sarasota. Fee applies. Information: 941-359-5700. Manatees for Kids Dance Marathon, 5840 26th St. W., Bradenton. LOOKING AHEAD OFF AMI Information: 941-962-2754. Feb. 17-18, 2018, Florida Institute for Saltwater Heritage’s Cortez Commercial Fishing Festival, Cortez. Feb. 25, Anna Maria Island Concert Chorus and Orchestra Broadway and Beyond concert, Bradenton. March 25, Anna Maria Island Concert Chorus and Orchestra Opera Concert, Bradenton.

KIDS & FAMILY ON ANNA MARIA ISLAND

GAMES, SPORTS & OUTDOORS ON ANNA MARIA ISLAND Wednesday, Jan. 24 4 p.m. — Chess club, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341. ONGOING ON ANNA MARIA ISLAND

Wednesday, Jan. 17 • Wednesdays and Saturdays, 9 a.m., horseshoes pitched, 7 p.m. — Anna Maria Family Movies in the Park, “Smurfs: The Anna Maria City Hall, 10005 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria. Information: Lost village,” Pine Avenue and North Bay Boulevard, Anna Maria. 941-708-6130. Information: 941-708-6130. • Thursdays, 7-9 p.m., through March 29, Annie Silver ComSunday, Jan. 21 munity Center bingo games, 103 23rd St. N., Bradenton Beach. Fee

Center seeks homes for showcase

The Center of Anna Maria Island is in the market for new homes. The nonprofit will hold its annual tour of homes March 17, and organizers are seeking properties to feature on the tour. In addition to select homes, the tour will feature a stop at the community center, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria, where there will be food vendors and a tour boutique, featuring arts and crafts, home goods for sale and raffle tickets for a chance to win a customcrafted quilt. The tour will be 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Those interested in showing their home on the tour should contact Diane Phinney via email at dianephinney@hotmail.com. For more information about the tour, call the center at 941-778-1908.

Cortez museum opens sum-i exhibit

Marilyn Offer, Linda Beaudoin, Keith Nelson, Keiko Romerstein, Jo Robertson and Rosalee McDonald gather Jan. 13 among the Sum-i by the Sea exhibit at the Florida Maritime Museum, 4415 119th St. W., Cortez, through Feb. 22. Beaudoin, president of the Sum-i Society of Sarasota, and Romerstein led classes on the Japanese-ink painting technique. McDonald organized the exhibition. Islander Photo: Bianca Benedí

THE ISLANDER n Jan. 17, 2018 n 13

applies. Information: 941-778-3580. • Fridays, usually at 1 p.m., mahjong games, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341. • Second and fourth Fridays, 6 p.m., Center of Anna Maria Island bingo games, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria. Fee applies. Information: 941-778-1908. • Mondays, noon, bridge, Roser Memorial Community Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Information: 941-778-0414. • Tuesdays, 12:15 p.m., duplicate bridge, Episcopal Church of the Annunciation, 4408 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-779-0881. OFF ANNA MARIA ISLAND Saturday, Jan. 20 9-11 a.m. — Sun spotting with a telescope, Robinson Preserve, 1704 99th St. NW, Bradenton. Information: 941-748-4501. 6-8 p.m. — Starry Night Telescope Exploration, Perico Preserve, 11700 Manatee Ave. W., Perico Island. Information: 941-7425923. ONGOING OFF ANNA MARIA ISLAND

tion: 941-778-6758. Thursday, Jan. 18 10:15 a.m. — Friends of the Island Library Book Club discussing “Station Eleven,” Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341. Friday, Jan. 19 9 a.m. — Senior Adventures group meets at Annie Silver Community Center to depart for Sarasota concert, brunch, 103 23rd St. N., Bradenton Beach. Fee applies. Information: 941-538-0945. 2 p.m. — Knit and crochet club, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341. 5-7 p.m. — Annie Silver Community Center dinner — pulledpork sandwiches and sides, 103 23rd St. N., Bradenton Beach. Fee applies. Information: 941-778-3580. Saturday, Jan. 20 8:30 a.m. — Kiwanis Club of Anna Maria Island meeting with guest speaker David “Watchdog” Miner, Anna Maria Island Beach Cafe, 4000 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-7781383. 11 a.m. Meditation session, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341. Tuesday, Jan. 23 2 p.m. — Tech help, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341. ONGOING ON ANNA MARIA ISLAND

• Jan. 19-21, Bradenton Boat Show, Bradenton Area Convention Center, 1 Haben Blvd., Palmetto. Fee applies. Information: 727894-3644. • First and third Wednesdays usually, Roser Memorial Community Church Golfing for God, IMG Academy Golf Club, 4350 El Conquistador Parkway, Bradenton. Fee applies. Info: 941-778-0414. • Wednesdays, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Anna Maria Island Historical • Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays, 1-4 p.m., ACBL Open Society sales of Settlers Bread, 402 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Fee Pairs Duplicate Bridge, The Paradise Center, 6200 Gulf of Mexico applies. Information: 941-778-0492. Drive, Longboat Key. Fee apples. Information: 941-216-9600. • Second and fourth Wednesdays, 11 a.m. Just Older Youth/ LOOKING AHEAD OFF AMI JOY Brown Bag Lunch Series, Roser Memorial Community Church, Feb. 24, 2018, Pittsburgh Pirates spring training home opener, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Information: 941-778-0414. • Thursdays, 9 a.m.-noon, Manatee County Veteran Services Bradenton. April 4, 2018, Rotary Club of Anna Maria Island golf Divisions counseling and assistance, Island Library, 5701 Marina tournament, Bradenton. Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341. • Third Thursdays, 11:45 a.m., Successful Women Aligning CLUBS & Together meets, Bridge Street Bistro, 111 Gulf Drive S., Bradenton COMMUNITY Beach. Fee applies. Information: 941-345-5135. On Anna Maria Island • Fridays, Senior Adventures usually meets to carpool on an adventure or for an activity, Annie Silver Community Center, 103 Wednesday, Jan. 17 Noon — Anna Maria Island Garden Club meeting, Roser 23rd St. N., Bradenton Beach. Information: 941-538-0945. • Saturdays, 8:30 a.m., Kiwanis Club of Anna Maria Island Memorial Community Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Informabreakfast meeting, Anna Maria Island Beach Cafe, 4000 Gulf Drive,

Veterans Parade 6 pm Jan. 16

FUNFOOD

Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-1383. • Tuesdays, noon, Rotary Club of Anna Maria Island, Bridge Street Bistro, 111 Gulf Drive S., Bradenton Beach. Information: 941518-1965. • Tuesdays, 1-3 p.m., through March, Anna Maria Island Irish Ceili dance social, Sandpiper Mobile Resort, 2601 Gulf Drive N., Bradenton Beach. Information: 941-779-1416. Looking Ahead on AMI Feb. 1, St. Bernard Women’s Guild fashion show, Holmes Beach. Feb. 10, Anna Maria Island Privateers Thieves Market, Bradenton Beach. Feb. 15-17, Friends of the Island Library annual book sale, Anna Maria. March 3, Anna Maria Island Historical Society Heritage Day Festival, Anna Maria. March 10, Anna Maria Island Privateers Thieves Market, Bradenton Beach. March 21, Anna Maria Island Garden Club Penny Flower Show, Anna Maria. April 18, Anna Maria Island Garden Club Fashion Show, Anna Maria. ONGOING OFF ANNA MARIA ISLAND • Second Wednesdays during season, Off Stage Ladies meeting and luncheon, various venues, Bradenton. Information: 941-9322798.

GOOD TO KNOW Save the dates

• Tuesday, Feb. 13, fat Tuesday. • Wednesday, Feb. 14, Valentine’s Day. • Monday, Feb. 19, Presidents Day. • Sunday, April 1, Easter.

GOOD DEEDS Volunteer opportunities Looking for volunteer opportunities on or around Anna Maria Island? These organizations are seeking help: • The Roser Food Bank needs donations of cash and nonperishable food. The pantry is administered by Roser Memorial Community Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Info: 941-778-0414. • Moonracer Animal Rescue seeks volunteers to offer foster and forever homes for rescued animals. Information: 941-345-2441. Looking for volunteers for an organization or an event? Email calendar@islander.org with the details. Please include a contact name and phone number.

Phil Vassar Colton Dixon 7 pm Jan. 14 7:30 pm Jan. 19

FUN

LOADS O F EXHIBITS

Daily Entertainment The Dennis Lee Show Rock-It the Robot Show-Me Pig Racers and Show-Me Safari Petting Zoo

Dennis Lee Daily

FOOD

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FUN

MIDWAY D ARMBAN S SPECIAL

ADULTS

13 and

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Scheduled Events Manatee County Fair Veterans Parade 6-7 pm Tuesday, Jan. 16 All Veterans are invited to participate... Meet in the Harllee building at 5:30 Steer Show – 6 pm Jan 18 6th Annual County Cattlemen’s Whip-Popping Contest – Noon Jan. 20 11th Annual BBQ Contest – Jan. 20

FUN

KIDS 5 & UNDER FREE

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55 & UP

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Livestock Shows

Manatee County Fair Grounds

1303 17th St. W., Palmetto • 941-722-8951 • www.manateecountyfair.com

14 n Jan. 17, 2018 n THE ISLANDER

BB sewer line conflict assessment ends, dispute continues

By Kathy Prucnell Islander Reporter The sewer-line dispute between Bradenton Beach, Manatee County and Shawn Kaleta is inching along — in court and now in a dispute resolution process. Manatee County sued the city, Kaleta and two of his companies in August 2017, asking the 12th Circuit Court to declare an easement on Kaleta-owned land in Bradenton Beach where a sewer pipe is buried. As a Jan. 10 conflict assessment meeting at a county administrative building concluded, Bradenton Beach officials told county and developer representatives they would bring their viewpoints to the city commission. The parties sent attorneys and officials, including Bradenton Beach Mayor John Chappie and Manatee County Administrator Ed Hunzeker, to the meeting under a conflict resolution procedure the city invoked in November 2017. State law provides for conflict assessment and joint meetings of governmental entities if a dispute leads to one entity suing another. The lawsuit claims the city failed to properly vacate a street where three Kaleta-owned properties remain subject to the right of way. The sewer line serves Manatee County customers east of Bradenton Beach and south to Longboat Pass and is more than 40 years old and 10 feet underground. Kaleta attended for a few minutes at the meeting’s start and said he intended to build a small pool over the sewer line on one of the three properties. Kaleta said he is working with Bradenton Beach’s building official to avoid the sewer pipe at the two other properties. County attorneys responded, saying the meeting first needed to identify the conflicts. Manatee County assistant attorney Katharine Zamboni said she sees two — one being the opposing views about the city’s 2001 resolution and the second,

Bradenton Beach Mayor John Chappie, left, building official Steve Gilbert, attorney Mark Barnebey for the city, speak to Louis Najmy and Aaron Thomas of Najmy Thompson, in a hallway at the Manatee County Administrative Building.

a challenge by the city and Kaleta to the timeliness of the county’s suit. The county maintains the city resolution, which purports to vacate a street right of way, was void because it failed to properly identify the street to be vacated and the properties impacted. Bradenton Beach stands by its resolution. At the meeting, Hunzeker, attorneys and staff agreed the county wants a 20-foot easement, 10 feet on either side of the utility line, prohibiting pools and buildings, elevated structures and any excavation deeper than 2 feet. Hunzeker said the pipe serves 150,000 customers who shouldn’t be burdened with paying the cost to move the line. “If we allow someone to build a structure over the line and it ruptures and the EPA gets involved, it’s going to be an intentional act on our part as opposed to a negligent one and the fines would reflect that,” he said. Attorney Jason Gaskill argued the county was timebarred in challenging the vacated property and seeking

an implied easement. Title companies on numerous properties have insured over the risk, he said. Also, Gaskill and another Kaleta attorney, Louis Najmy, argued the vague language of the city resolution didn’t support a county claim of an implied easement. “Let’s be clear, moving forward with building a pool is not necessarily going to break the pipe and cause destruction,” Najmy said. To settle, the Kaleta attorneys propose their clients would give a written easement and indemnify the county against damage caused to the pipe for five years, provided that the Kaleta companies could still build pools on the three properties. The indemnification would cover pool installation and also allow the county or city to tear up a pool at no cost if they have to replace the pipe, according to Najmy. “Considering so many other homeowners already built homes and pools over this pipe over the last 15 years on their properties, the county would be in a much better position than they are now,” Najmy wrote in a Jan. 12 text. Chappie and attorney Mark Barnebey said they’d relay the parties’ positions to the city commission during a shade meeting, which allows governmental bodies to meet in private — an exception to the state’s Sunshine Laws — to discuss pending litigation. “Maybe we’ll be going back to federal court,” Najmy said after the meeting. “The county is turning down a free easement with indemnification,” he added, saying the risk they’d take would be small and “it’s extremely unlikely there will be disruption of the sewer line.” Plus, Najmy said in a Jan. 12 text, even if the county wins the suit, they or the city will be faced with “millions of dollars of claims from all of the other property owners.” The county operates the line in the public right of way on Bay Shore Drive — identified incorrectly as Bay Drive South in the 2001 resolution — adjacent to the eastern portion of properties at 112, 114 and 116 S. 11th St. The Bradenton Beach mayor and commissioners meet Jan. 9 in the police department conference room with Pool permits for the three properties are pending attorney Robert Watrous and paralegal Michael Barfield, top left, both of Sarasota, to discuss a lawsuit. with the city. Islander Photo: ChrisAnn Silver Esformes

Bradenton Beach commissioners discuss lawsuit in the shade Bradenton Beach commissioners met Jan. 10 in a shade meeting to discuss strategies for a lawsuit initiated in August by former Mayor Jack Clarke and joined by the city, against several now-former board members who allegedly violated Florida’s Government-in-theSunshine Laws. Due to attorney-client privilege, the majority of the three-hour meeting was closed to the public, including the paralegal for the case, Michael Barfield. A court reporter was present. The meeting concluded with a unanimous vote for attorney Robert Watrous to continue working on the suit, as directed. As of Jan. 10, the city had spent $42,322 on the lawsuit. — ChrisAnn Silver Esformes

ManaSota League of Cities board members discuss issues relating to home rule Jan. 11 during a bimonthly meeting at Longboat Key Town Hall, 501 Bay Isles Road. They elected officers, including Sarasota Mayor Willie Charles Shaw to succeed Palmetto Commissioner Brian Williams as president; Anna Maria Commissioner Carol Carter as vice president and Palmetto Commissioner Brian Williams as treasurer. Islander Photo: ChrisAnn Silver Esformes

THE ISLanDER n Jan. 17, 2018 n 15

Visual humor takes island playhouse ‘Beyond a Joke’

By Sandy Ambrogi Islander Reporter Take a wheelbarrow, a dead TV repairman, a new village vicar and a paranoid boyfriend with, well, different parents, and what do you have? You have “Beyond a Joke,” the current installment of the 69th season of the Island Players. Miscommunications, surprises, twists and turns make up this comedy by Derek Benfield. Cast members include Sylvia Marnie as Jane, Heiko Knipfelberg as Andrew, Caroline Cox as Sarah, Daniel Coppinger as the Vicar, Judi King as Audrey, Peter Ruscoe as Edgar. These seasoned Island Players cast members are joined by new faces on the stage, with Jeffrey A. Steiger as Geoff and Sarah Klipper as Sally taking part in their first island performances. James Thaggard, marking his 30th season with Island Players, directs the British farce, set in an English country house where a number of people have died in accidents. When the owners’ daughter’s boyfriend arrives for a weekend, eavesdropping leads him to believe the deaths were sinister and, perhaps, more are being planned. Knipfelberg, as the man of the house, has control of this production from beginning to end, with a stage voice which that fills the theater, perfect facial expressions and timing of his lines and visual humor. Managing whiskey shots, a slightly demented visiting sister, his daughter’s detested boyfriend, the boyfriend’s parents who drop in with little notice, a June Cleaver wife and a couple of dead bodies best transported in a wheelbarrow, Knipfelberg must be exhausted by the end of each performance. Likewise, newcomer Steiger, is a master with body language and perfect at fidgeting. The conversation he overhears by girlfriend Sally’s parents sets the stage for alternating frantic and transfixed immobility by Geoff, who is convinced Sally’s parents are killers. The plot thickens, as they say, when a body appears in the pantry, then mysteriously disappears. Who was it? Where did it go? Who moved it? Talk to Cox about that, who, as sister Sarah, moves with an ambling gait reflecting her forgetful mental state flawlessly. Another character who fills the stage with expression every moment is Clipper. She is lithe and glides about effortlessly, perfectly timing her “Oh Daddy!” dismissals and soft chides to Geoff about his paranoid behavior. Though visually an odd couple, the SteigerClipper pairing works. Marnie is a perennial at the Island Players, appearing in productions at the theater for the past 15 years.

Heiko Knipfelberg, left, as Andrew, Sarah Klipper as Sally and Sylvia Marnie as Jane seem puzzled over Sally’s boyfriend Geoff, played by Jeffrey Steiger. In the current Island Players production of “Beyond a Joke,” Geoff becomes more and more paranoid about the goings-on in his girlfriend’s household. Islander Photo: Courtesy Island Players

She fusses about the house and garden, and attempts to keep Geoff’s parents from seeing all the nefarious goings-on. Portraying Geoff’s parents, Ruscoe is as brusque as Edgar and King’s Audrey is quick to the point with a summer house obsession that drives the ending of this comedy. Coppinger returns to the IP as the Vicar, and does so with hilarity. And what of the supposed murder plot against him and his fate? Suffice to say, the audience was amused by the outcome. Special recognition to Thomas Carson, the maintenance supervisor for the Bradenton Country Club making his first appearance with the Island Players, albeit a totally non-speaking role. We heard he had some stiff competition at the audition. Set designer Jan Van Wart’s two-scene set and

garden construction work open a viewer’s imagination to what they can’t actually see going on in the garden, where off-set action drives the on-set narrative. Patrick Bedell is light designer and Bobbie Berger and Ruth Stevens serve as stage managers for the production. Pamela Hopkins designed the costumes for the comedy and Rita Lamoreux takes care of makeup and hair. “Beyond a Joke” is playing now through Sunday, Jan. 28 The Island Players theater is at 10009 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria. Performances are Tuesday-Saturday at 8 p.m. and Sunday at 2 p.m. The box office is open 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Monday-Saturday and one hour before curtain time. Tickets are $20. For more information, call the box office at 941778-5755.

Authors visit library

Authors Alice Moerk and Judy Allen attend a table displaying their published works Jan. 11 at the Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. The pair, the first authors in a series of events introducing local writers, spoke to library patrons about their published works and their time on Anna Maria Island. Allen said she appreciated the opportunity to connect with those who stopped by to inquire. The next author, Sieglinde Martin, will visit the library 1-3 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 18. Islander Photo: Bianca Benedí

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16 n Jan. 17, 2018 n THE ISLanDER

Stop here for Roser’s bountiful breakfast, fellowship Steve Gianiotes bangs a pot and pan Jan. 13 outside Roser Memorial Community Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, hoping to draw visitors to Roser’s pancake breakfast. Church volunteers offered breakfast, including pancakes, sausage, coffee and other morning fare in the fellowship hall. Islander Photos: Bianca Benedí Reese Quillen, 7, smiles up Jan. 13 from her breakfast of pancakes, biscuits, sausage and applesauce at the Roser pancake breakfast.

Linda Gianiotes whisks a giant batch of pancake mix Jan. 13 for Roser’s pancake breakfast. Gianiotes said the secret to the mix is vanilla extract. During the pancake breakfast, she said volunteers may use up to 100 pounds of pancake mix.

Linda Accatatta serves up a plate of pancakes Jan. 13 at the Roser Church pancake breakfast.

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8:30 and 10:15 am Sunday Services

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2 blocks north of Bridge St. Clock Tower

CONCERT SERIES 4:00 PM SUNDAY

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IN THE SANCTUARY 10:00 AM Nursery & Church School 8:30 AM Early Bird Sunday School • 8:45 AM Adult Bible Study 941-778-0414 • www.RoserChurch.com • www.facebook.com/RoserChurch

THE ISLanDER n Jan. 17, 2018 n 17

Obituaries

Michael Dowd

Michael Dowd, artist and musician, died Jan. 10. He was born in new Haven, Connecticut, April 16, 1955, and was raised in Cheshire, Connecticut, He moved to Florida in 1979. A celebration of life will be held at 3 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 20, at the Palmetto Art Center, 907 Fifth St. W., Palmetto. Memorial contributions may be made to Easterseals Southwest Florida Art Program, 350 Braden Ave., Sarasota, FL 34243. He is survived by wife Robyn Cassidy, formerly of Anna Maria Island; son Kevin; four siblings; many in-laws; numerous nieces and nephews; and grand-nieces and grandnephews. Dowd

Holly Ann LaMarche

Holly Ann LaMarche, 54, of Anna Maria and most recently Vincennes, Indiana, died Jan. 11. She was born in Vincennes Oct. 21, 1963. She graduated from Lincoln High School and then Vincennes University with a degree in English. She was known among her friends and family for her love of unusual words and their meanings. She worked as a dental assistant for many years in Indiana and Florida. She began training with Dr. Steve Mullins in Vincennes and continued working in dental offices for several years after moving to Florida in 2003. She frequently assisted with dental surgery in hospitals and especially enjoyed working with young children and elderly patients. She was an animal lover, and was especially crazy about her beloved dog Rascal and her cows, Leapy,

Cinco and Ziggy. She was an avid sports fan and followed pro tennis, the Indy 500 and nASCAR. She always longed for the simple life in the country and was not always a fan of today’s technology. She was a hard worker, determined and very strong willed. She met and overcame many challenges and had recently accepted Jesus Christ as her Lord and Savior. She will be sadly missed by family and her many friends and co-workers in Florida. Memorial gifts may be made to Good Samaritan Hospice, 520 S. Seventh St., Vincennes IN 47591. Online condolences may be made at goodwinfamilyfh. com. She is survived by parents August and Millie Fisher; stepfather Dave Fisher; stepmother Elizabeth; sister Sherri Lamb and husband Danny; brothers Chris of Evansville and Tim and wife Sandy of Vincennes; nieces Leigh Ann Singleton, Katie Montcalm and Chloe; and nephew noah.

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The annual e-scrap and household hazardous waste collection will be Saturday, Jan. 27, at Coquina Beach Gulfside in Bradenton Beach. Manatee County Utilities Department — in partnership with island public works departments — coordinates the event, which will be 9 a.m.-3 p.m. in order to put electronics and other materials into a recycling stream rather than the landfill. Some items may be refurbished for reuse and other items may be dismantled for parts and recycled. People can enter Coquina Beach Gulfside and drive through a drop-off lane, leaving behind a variety of electronics, including computer hard drives and monitors, printers, copiers, televisions, cassette and DVD players, cellphones, stereos and small appliances, including hair dryers and toasters. E-scrap collectors also will accept household hazard waste, such as paint and batteries. Tires, large appliances and medical waste will not be accepted. For more information, call the utilities department at 941-798-6761.

Delia Sperry died Jan. 2 in Leesburg. She was 107. She was born in Passaic, new Jersey, to Orie and Lena Intveld and she lived in Bedminster, Panther She was a homemaker. Before that she was a bookValley, North Plainfield and Basking Ridge before keeper for the Ortho Pharmaceutical Co. moving to Leesburg in 2010. Mrs. Sperry loved to travel and especially enjoyed cruises. Her brother-in-law, Jack Holmes, developed Holmes Beach and is the city’s namesake. At your service Memorial donations may be made to the CorObituaries are provided as a community sernerstone Hospice, 2445 Lane Park Road, Tavares FL vice in The Islander newspaper to residents and 32778. Condolences may be made to baileyfuneral. family of residents, both past and present, as well com. as to those people with ties to Anna Maria Island. She is survived by daughter Barbara MacQueen of Information may be submitted to news@islander. Leesburg; step-son William T. Jr. of Pompton Plains, org. Paid obituaries are available by calling sales New Jersey; five grandchildren, nine great-grandchilrep Toni Lyon at 941-778-7978. dren and 10 great-great grandchildren.

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18 n Jan. 17, 2018 n THE ISLanDER

FISH plans to bridge Cortez features with new heritage trail By Terry Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Connor Islander Reporter The Florida Institute for Saltwater Heritage wants to blaze a Cortez Heritage Trail. The trail would connect five stops: FISH BoatWorks, Cortez Village Historical Society, the circa1890 Bratton Store, the Florida Maritime Museum and a planned boat shed. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Our immediate need is to build this historic boat shed to house, protect and display the historic wooden boats built or restored by FISH volunteers,â&#x20AC;? board member Herman Kreugle said at the Jan. 8 FISH meeting. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The historic boat shed is the missing link to our Cortez Heritage Trail.â&#x20AC;? FISH is exploring grant and other funding options to build the shed. FISH vice president Jane von Hahmann said the legacy trail could be melded with a map showing historic Cortez homes, which could help attract funding, particularly from the Manatee County Tourist Development Council. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Maybe we could rework that as part of our grant applications,â&#x20AC;? she said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The funding through the TDC, theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re good about it if you build a tour or something

A file photo by Jack Elka shows the FISH Preserve on the south side of Cortez Road reaching the village to the west, the Cortez Bridge and Anna Maria Island on the horizon.

where it involves the public.â&#x20AC;? Kreugle said he was encouraged by reactions from county officials, including Commissioner Betsy Benac and Charlie Hunsicker, director of the parks and natural resources department. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Benac really thought it was a good idea,â&#x20AC;? Kreugle

FISH calls for board member, officer nominations

nominations for Florida Institute for Saltwater Heritage board members and officers were opened at the Jan. 8 meeting at Fishermenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hall in Cortez. Board members whose terms are expiring include president Kim McVey, vice president Jane von Hahmann and members Kaye Bell, Plum Taylor and Janet Miller. The officers are seeking re-election and all wish to remain on the board. nominations can be made by contacting any of the 15 FISH board members or going online to cortez-fish.org. nominees will be listed by a committee before the election. The committee must give 45 days public

notice for the election. The election date will be set in late March or April 1 at the latest, depending on the nomination process, according to von Hahmann. Board members serve three-year terms. The new FISH board will then select officers. McVey, von Hahmann, secretary Karen Bell and treasurer Mike Northfield will continue in their positions if membership allows, but their offices can be contested. The board will next meet at 7 p.m. Monday, Feb. 5, at Fishermenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hall, 4511 124th St. W. â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Terry Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Connor

said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I guess it was of interest to them because the Florida Maritime Museum is included on that trail.â&#x20AC;? The Manatee County Clerk of Courts operates the Florida Maritime Museum at 4415 119th St. W. The trail, which runs through the 95-acre FISH preserve at 119th Street West and Cortez Road West in Bradenton, also is designed to fulfill a FISH vision when the nonprofit bought the original land in 1995. Rebuilding nature trails, reconnecting tidal flow, removing invasive species, replanting native plants and trees and installing four tidal areas have been FISH projects. The trail also will lead into Cortez village to the fish houses, restaurants and working waterfront. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It will be a trail that will be a destination for ... people to learn about the commercial fishing village and its background,â&#x20AC;? Kreugle said. Founded in 1991, the nonprofit supports the FISH preserve and a boat-building and repair programs. Its mission includes protecting the commercial fishing way of life and opposing land developments deemed threatening to the village. FISH will next meet at 7 p.m. Monday, Feb. 5, at Fishermenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hall, 4511 124th St. W.

Holmes Beach dog park neighbors bark at expansion proposal By Terry Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Connor Islander Reporter

Doggone it! Some residents say Holmes Beach is barking up the wrong tree with plans to expand the dog park. â&#x20AC;&#x153;All Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m asking for is some bushes around the fences to reduce some of the noise. I donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t want it expanded,â&#x20AC;? Holmes Beach resident Sheryl Smargisso, who lives across the street from the dog park, told members of the Holmes Beach Parks and Beautifica-

Holmes Beach resident Don Anthony prepares to walk out of the Jan. 10 meeting of the Holmes Beach Parks and Beautification Committee after telling member Dennis Groh, right, he is tired of waiting for dog park upgrades. Islander Photo: Terry Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Connor

tion Committee at their Jan. 10 meeting. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The bigger that dog park is, the more dogs will go there. They continue to push making it bigger. When is enough?â&#x20AC;? Smargisso noted the dog park was installed by the city without resident input. She said it has harmed property values through added noise and traffic. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I hear that noise every morning and all day long,â&#x20AC;? she said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It is frustrating.â&#x20AC;? Holmes Beach resident Don Anthony left the meeting early after expressing disbelief the committee will actually do anything. He said heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s been waiting roughly four years for park upgrades. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Complete apathy has been shown to dog park people,â&#x20AC;? said Anthony. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t even get dirt (to fill in holes).â&#x20AC;? Committee members, however, said they emerged with renewed direction from a meeting dedicated to finalizing dog park improvements to recommend to the city commission. The criticism did not dampen the committeeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s enthusiasm. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I think itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the most productive meeting weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve had,â&#x20AC;? said Allyson Gillies. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve nailed down the order of the plan and what things can be done first. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s positive forward movement.â&#x20AC;? The Holmes Beach City Commission allocated $50,000 to be spent on dog park improvements in 2018. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We want to make it functional and usable, but also eye-pleasing,â&#x20AC;? said committee chair Zan Fuller.

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How to accomplish those goals sparked sometimes heated debate between the dozen people in the gallery and committee members. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We should not get into a shouting contest,â&#x20AC;? said committee member Dennis Groh about 10 minutes into the 80-minute meeting. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s get this done.â&#x20AC;? Park expansion remains on the table. â&#x20AC;&#x153;If thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s an opportunity to expand it in such a way it is not causing problems, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re going to consider it,â&#x20AC;? Groh said. The committee also will continue to evaluate options for fencing and gates, but members did decide better park access is required. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The gates need to be replaced,â&#x20AC;? said committee member Joshua Linney. The committee also is collecting estimates for plumbing, canine water stations and landscaping to expand the park boundaries. Benches and shade trees will be added, too. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We will determine the orientation of the benches in the future, possibly in conjunction with tree placement,â&#x20AC;? Groh said. The city allocates $5,000 annually for public works crews to maintain the dog park on Flotilla Drive, known as Scentral Park, which has a pavilion, benches and a water hose next to Birdie Tebbetts Field. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not easy to resolve a lot of various differences,â&#x20AC;? said Groh. â&#x20AC;&#x153;But weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re trying real hard.â&#x20AC;? The parks committee will next meet at 10 a.m. Wednesday, Feb. 7, at city hall, 5801 Marina Drive.

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County approves ‘green’ mixed development in Cortez By Kathy Prucnell Islander Reporter Environmentally friendly tiny homes seem to have won favor in Cortez as well as approval from the county board. The developers apparently found the right mix of energy-efficient tiny homes, vacation rentals, resort living, waterfront access and favor among the community. Even the name harkens back to the origins of Cortez, an area marked on maps as Hunters Point before the commercial fishing village grew to be known as Cortez. “We will not trim the mangroves,” developer Marshall Gobuty said Jan. 11, before Hunters Point Resort & Marina gained the Manatee Board of County Commissioners’ unanimous approval. The developer’s promise preceded the vote and responded to Commissioner Carol Whitmore’s concern for nesting birds in the mangroves buffering the canals at the development site. Mangrove trimming was one of a few concerns voiced at the hearing. What turned heads were the 86 energy-ready homes proposed by Gobuty, the developer of Mirabella in northwest Bradenton and founder and principal of Pearl Homes and the head of Cortez Road Investments and Finance Inc. The BOCC vote approved Hunters Point’s preliminary site plan and rezone of 6.31 acres of the 18.73acre site at the northeast base of the Cortez Bridge. The rezone changes 5.01 acres of canals and 1.3 acres zoned commercial to align with the remaining “mixed-use” designation approved in August 2006 for a project that was previously abandoned. Each of the Pearl Homes will feature rooftop solar panels, battery storage system and an electric car charging station, and will be built to Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design Platinum green criteria. The LEED certification ensures third-party verification, according to the developer. “He will have to build these or he will have to come back to you,” Gobuty’s attorney, Caleb Grimes, said. Partnering with the developer is Tesla and Panasonic. “Each Hunters Point property comes with a new electric-powered Tesla vehicle” and the development will feature Panasonic “Smart Community” technology, including smart street lighting and enhanced security monitoring, according to Pearl Homes’ Jan. 12 Hunter’s Point developer Marshall Gobuty.

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Hunters Point Resort & Marina, 12444 Cortez Road W., east of the Cortez Bridge on the north side of Cortez Road, was approved Jan. 11 by the Manatee Board of County Commissioners as a mixeduse development, including 86 energyefficient homes. Islander Photo: Kathy Prucnell

news release. The Hunters Point plan calls for 86 residential cottages, 45,620 square feet of non-residential use, including 62 hotel rooms in five buildings, a clubhouse, restaurant and marina with 48 dock slips and a dedicated slip for a water taxi. Grimes told the commission that the developer has not met with the Florida Department of Transportation on the bridge. The DOT is expected to announce either a new 35-foot bascule bridge or a fixed, 65-foot-clearance bridge to replace the 1957 bridge, a few hundred feet from the site. “We would lose basically the western part of the hotel resort area,” if the DOT constructs the high bridge, Grimes said. The community is expected to operate as a resort, including vacation homes. Whitmore also addressed concerns voiced at a December planning commission hearing — where commissioners unanimously recommended the project — about the transient nature of vacation rentals. Legal research indicates state law prohibits the county from regulating rentals and a zoned “Cortez overlay” has no such restrictions, according to Whitmore. County planner Margaret Tusing said staff recommended the BOCC approval because of its infill design, green transportation options, walkability and use of current infrastructure. The only negative aspect, according to staff, was its location in the coastal high hazard, coastal evacuation and coastal planning areas, but that was mitigated by the developer’s emergency preparedness plan and notice to purchasers. Karen Bell, a business owner and resident of 125th

Street West in Cortez, spoke in favor of the development. She said that in operating Star Fish Restaurant and caring about the neighborhood, she closes at 8 p.m. and doesn’t have entertainment. “You have to have people who care about what they’re doing…. I know in my heart they care about what’s going on,” Bell said. Another neighbor, Robert Boyatt of 42nd Avenue Drive West in Cortez, complimented the developer on creating a “cool project,” but worried about 23 docks in the canals that would be transferred to a homeowner association. Grimes twice said a declaration, which runs with the land, would protect “properly permitted docks” from future interference. Another citizen asked about the old gas station on the property and whether the underground fuel tanks had been removed. Grimes said prior owners have assured they were removed, but a Phase I environmental assessment for the property would be undertaken. Commissioner Steve Jonsson said he was concerned about traffic, considering Penn Bay, Lake Flores and a new Cortez Bridge, but added, Hunters Point “sounds like it will be more transient.” “I think it’s a home run,” Commissioner Robin D’Sabatino said, adding she’d never seen a development with “all the citizens so in favor of a project.” Whitmore said she preferred the smaller homes over “a bunch of RVs.” Commissioner Betsy Benac motioned for the development’s approval because of the consistency to the county’s comprehensive plan and land development code. “And because it’s cool,” she said.

20 n Jan. 17, 2018 n THE ISLANDER

Cops & Court By Kathy Prucnell, Islander Reporter

MCSO arrests Anna Maria moped driver for DUI

A man driving a moped on North Shore Drive in Anna Maria ended up in jail after a Manatee County sheriff’s deputy observed him cross the center line several times. Carl Trygg, 36, of Anna Maria, was arrested for driving under the influence at 2:06 a.m. Dec. 30 in the 700 block of North Shore Drive. Deputy Amy Leach reported observing Trygg have difficulty conTrygg trolling his vehicle, according to an MCSO report. After stopping the moped, the driver admitted to Leach he had been drinking at Bortell’s Lounge in Anna Maria, according to the MCSO report. Leach called Deputy Benjamin Quick to conduct a DUI investigation. While Trygg performed a field-sobriety test, the report states Quick observed signs related to smoking marijuana. Showing signs of impairment, Trygg was taken into custody and to the Manatee County jail. According to the police report, Trygg provided two breath samples, measuring 0.152 and 0.156. The legal limit is 0.08. Trygg’s arraignment is set for 8:25 a.m. Monday, Jan. 29, at the Manatee County Judicial Center, 1051 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton.

Streetlife

By Kathy Prucnell

Island police blotter

Anna Maria Jan.1, 500 block of South Bay Boulevard, suspicious behavior. An older woman reported her doorbell rang between 11 p.m. and 1 a.m., while she was sleeping. Later she found two business cards from Tampa companies for spiritual readings and consultation on her porch and called police. Officers took the cards. Anna Maria is policed by MCSO. Bradenton Beach Dec. 26, 2600 block of Gulf Drive S., aggravated battery. A couple on the way to dinner got into an argument and the man smacked the woman’s cellphone away. The man stopped the car and the woman exited and then was struck by the car, causing injury. When the man stopped the car to check on her, the woman got into the car and left the scene. The suspect was arrested for aggravated battery. Jan. 4, 100 block of Gulf Drive South., trespass warning. A Circle K employee flagged down an officer and said a man sitting on the bench at the store had been trespassed from the property. No prior trespass was found. The employee requested a trespass warning, which was issued to the man. Jan. 5, 100 block of Highland Avenue, felony burglary. A property owner doing a renovation said four power tools, valued at $950 and stored at the building, were stolen overnight. Officers determined the lock on the door was not working and there were no signs of forced entry. Jan. 8, 120 Bridge St., Drift In, trespass warning. A man was beating on the door of the Drift In after being asked to leave at closing time. The man had walked into the bar and started punching another man. The aggressor was pushed outside by staff and the door was locked. Officers stated the man was belligerent when they found him in the parking lot and trespassed him from the property. Bradenton Beach is policed by BBPD. Holmes Beach Dec. 28, 6300 block of Marina Drive, driving on a suspended/revoked license, third or more offense. An officer observed a truck on Palm Drive and stopped the male driver on Marina Drive. He was not wearing a seat belt, lacked identification or a driver’s license and said the truck belonged to his boss. The driver had a

Marijuana triggers BBPD arrest

Sex offenders visit Anna Maria Island

The odor of marijuana from a vehicle at the Coquina Beach South Boat Ramp after hours led Bradenton Beach police to seize almost an ounce of the controlled substance. Joshua Burls, 22, of Bradenton, was arrested Dec. 29, 2017, after BBPD Officer Alexander Hurt approached the vehicle parked at 12:34 a.m. in the lot in the 2000 block of Gulf Drive South. Hurt noticed a marijuana cigarette Burls in the driver’s mouth, smoke rolling from a window and an odor of cannabis, according to a police report. Burls told the officer he and his girlfriend were “hanging out” and he had a “little bit of weed,” the report stated. Hurt searched the vehicle and found 27.2 grams of marijuana in the center console. Under Florida law, possessing more than 20 grams of marijuana is a felony. The BBPD report states Burls acknowledged he owned the bag of marijuana. Burls was placed under arrest and transported to the Manatee County jail. He posted $1,500 bond and was released, pending an arraignment is set for 9 a.m. Friday, Feb. 2, at the Manatee County Judicial Center, 1051 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton.

Sex offender registry reports in January announced two male offenders visiting Anna Maria Island. The Florida Department of Law Enforcement reported a 59-year-old male sex offender temporarily residing in the 2200 block of Gulf Drive North in Bradenton Beach. The man, with a permanent Orlando address, was convicted in Manatee County in June 2011 for possessing photographs depicting sexual conduct by a child, according to the registry. The FDLE also reported a 31-year-old offender from Olmsted Township, Ohio, has a temporary address in the 400 block of South Bay Boulevard. The registry report stated the man was convicted in Wayne, Ohio, of the sex offense of importuning in August 2008. Sex offenders must register permanent, temporary addresses and, if transient, their whereabouts for life unless otherwise ordered by the court. The FDLE also reports other sex offenders in the area on Jan. 11: • A 56-year-old male offender in the 4200 block of the 129th Street West in Cortez. • A 57-year-old male transient male sex offender in the Anna Maria area. • A 53-year-old male offender in the 100 block of Crescent Avenue in Anna Maria. • A 53-year-old male offender in the 400 block of Bridge Street in Bradenton Beach. • A 59-year-old male offender in the 100 block of Ninth Street North in Bradenton Beach.

suspended/revoked license two times prior and failures to appear/pay charges. He was taken to the Manatee County jail and the vehicle was towed. Dec. 29, 600 block of Manatee Avenue West, trespass warning. The CVS pharmacy manager reported a man stole beer, left the store and was waiting for a trolley. Officers spoke to the man, who offered to pay for the beer. CVS declined to press charges but requested a trespass warning. The man left the area on foot. Dec. 30, 4700 block of Gulf Drive, possession of marijuana less than 20 grams, driving on a suspended license and failure to prove registration. A woman was stopped on Gulf Drive and the officer observed the odor of marijuana. The woman could not provide a vehicle registration and had a suspended driver’s license. Officers found 12.6 grams of marijuana in her purse and several burnt marijuana cigarettes in the vehicle. The car was towed, and the cannabis was placed in the HBPD evidence locker. The woman was cited and released. Jan. 5, 3900 block of East Bay Drive, possession of controlled substances and paraphernalia. Police

were called to the Publix Super Market following a disturbance in the store, and located a man and woman screaming in the parking lot. The two presented IDs and consented to a search. Officers found Xanax, clonazepam, 0.2 grams of cocaine, as well as a syringe, glass pipe, spoon and a brownish substance that tested positive for heroin. The pair was taken to HBPD and then transported to the Manatee County jail by the MCSO. Jan. 8, 3200 block of East Bay Drive, battery. Two 12-year- old females told officers a man followed them after they exited the trolley near the Walgreens. The man followed them when they turned and he grabbed one of their shirts when they began to run away. The girls fled into Walgreens and contacted a parent, who arrived and took them to HBPD. Officers located the man, who was first taken into custody but released, pending further investigation and a review of video surveillance from the store. Holmes Beach is policed by HBPD. S t r e e t l i f e is based on incident reports and narratives from the BBPD, HBPD and MCSO.

Island real estate transactions

Nappo to Davini Real Estate LLC for $975,000. 4003 Fourth Ave., Unit 5, 4th Avenue Condominium Inc., Holmes Beach, a 2,908 sfla / 4,308 sfur 4bed/4bath/4car land condo built in 2006 was sold 12/01/17, SPE 103 to Gomez for $900,000; list $949,000. 426 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, a 1,080 sfla / 2,748 sfur 2bed/2bath/2car canalfront home built in 1985 on a 5,731 sq ft lot was sold 11/30/17, 426 Pine Ami LLC to Snyder for $840,000; list $840,000. 118 48th St., Holmes Beach, a 1,858 sfla / 2,660 sfur 3bed/3bath/2car duplex built in 1952 on a 5,000 sq ft lot was sold 12/01/17, Buonagura to 48 Street LLC for $802,000. 528 70th St., Holmes Beach, a 1,460 sfla / 2,476 sfur 3bed/2bath/2car canalfront pool home built in 1986 on a 8,840 sq ft lot was sold 12/28/17, Rysal Enterprises LLC to Conrad for $750,000; list $850,000. 620 N. Point Drive, Holmes Beach, a 2,570 sfla / 3,310 sfur 3bed/3½bath/2car canalfront home built in 1993 on a 8,800 sq ft lot was sold 11/30/17, Weber to Cook for $740,000; list $770,000. Please see Property, Next page

PropertyWatch

By Jesse Brisson Special to The Islander 5311 Sunrise Lane, Unit A, Sunrise Lane, Holmes Beach, a 3,605 sfla / 4,329 sfur 4bed/3½bath/3car Bayfront land condo with pool built in 2013 was sold 11/23/17, Coughlin RE1 LLC to Shay for $2,240,000; list $2,295,000. 524 Villa Rosa Way, Anna Maria, a 2,458 sfla / 5,148 sfla 3bed/3bath/2car canalfront pool home built in 2015 on a 8,292 sq ft lot was sold 12/04/17, FH Anna Maria LLC to Kent for $1,350,000. 313 Hardin Ave., Anna Maria, a 2,039 sfla / 4,988 sfur 3bed/3bath/2car canalfront pool home built in 1988 on a 10,425 sq ft lot was sold 11/30/17, Macartney to Silverman for $1,145,000; list $1,195,000. 202 75th St., Unit B, Casa Del Mare, Holmes Beach, a 1,967 sfla / 2,923 sfur 4bed/2½bath/2car land condo with pool built in 2006 was sold 11/28/17, Tongson to Lasley for $995,000; list $1,079,000. 4112 Fifth Ave., Unit B, Villas on Fifth Avenue, Holmes Beach, a 2,842 sfla / 4,466 sfur 3bed/2bath/2car land condo with pool built in 2010 was sold 12/01/17,

THE ISLANDER n Jan. 17, 2018 n 21

Holmes Beach follows through on medical marijuana ban By Terry O’Connor Islander Reporter When it comes to medical marijuana, the Holmes Beach City Commission never forgets. The commission voted unanimously Jan. 9 to OK the first reading of an ordinance to prohibit all medical marijuana treatment and sales facilities from operating within city limits. The pot ban will go into effect immediately if a second reading of the ordinance is approved. Holmes Beach adopted a marijuana prohibition ordinance last summer, but it became defunct when the Legislature declared regulation of medical marijuana processing, growing and distribution a state function. Medical and recreational uses of marijuana are illegal under federal law but Florida has legalized it for medicinal uses. At its Dec. 12, 2017, meeting, the commission agreed to refresh the city pot ban with a new ordinance Property continued from page 20

4200 Gulf Drive, Unit 105, Gulfsands, Holmes Beach, a 1,008 sfla / 1,104 sfur 2bed/2bath condo built in 1979 was sold 11/27/17, Zeien to Sandcastle Whals LLC for $590,000. 2110 Ave. A, Bradenton Beach, a 1,490 sfla / 3,068 sfur 3bed/2½bath/1car home with deeded boat slip built in 1979 on a 5,000 sq ft lot was sold 11/17/17, Wallace to Sanderson for $585,000; list $595,000. 5606 Carissa St., Bradenton Beach, a 1.208 sfla / 1,804 sfur 2bed/2bath duplex built in 1971 on a 6,090 sq ft lot was sold 12/07/17, Fleming to Bennett for $549,000. 201 76th St., Holmes Beach, a 1,456 sfla / 2,085 sfur 4bed/2bath/2car duplex built in 1951 on a 7,840 sq ft lot was sold 11/29/17, Essex and Suffolk Lettings Ltd to Bazarsky for $530,500. 600 Manatee Ave., Unit 236, Westbay Cove, Holmes Beach, a 1,377 sfla 2bed/2bath condo with shared pool built in 1977 was sold 11/15/17, Kelley to Rydell for $450,000; list $450,000. 6400 Flotilla Drive, Unit 11, Westbay Point & Moorings, Holmes Beach, a 1,314 sfla / 1,426 sfur 2bed/2bath condo with shared pool built in 1978 was sold 11/15/17, Bartschke to Parsons for $330,000; list $345,000. 3601 East Bay Drive, Unit 112, Sandy Pointe, Holmes Beach, a 931 sfla / 1,019 sfur 2bed/2bath

aligned with state law. Marijuana is defined by Holmes Beach as any part of the genus cannabis, including seeds, resin and any mixture or preparation of the plant. Violating the marijuana ordinance is a misdemeanor carrying fines of up to $500 and possible county jail time of up to 60 days. Holmes Beach has, however, decriminalized possession of minor amounts of marijuana. Among other matters, city attorney Patricia Petruff said the last of 53 Bert Harris claims has been answered with a letter of no change. The letter offers no relief from the Holmes Beach short-term rental ordinance that limits occupancy to two people per bedroom. Anthony Properties Inc. filed a $375,000 claim against the city in August 2017 for property at 402 28th St., Holmes Beach. The claim indicated the rental property, appraised at $625,000, is worth $250,000 with the city rental ordinance in place. The Bert Harris Jr. Private Property Rights Protection Act of 1995 allows property owners to seek relief if they can prove a government action lowered the value of their property. The city has declined to negotiate any claims alleging losses from the Holmes Beach short-term rental occupancy ordinance.

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Holmes Beach Mayor Bob Johnson made 14 liaison appointments at the Jan. 9 meeting of the city commission. Four commissioners were appointed to three liaison posts, while one commissioner received two appointments. Liaisons attend meetings and report back to the commission on trends and issues. Commissioner Rick Hurst is liaison to Anna Maria Elementary School and the Center of Anna Maria Island. Hurst also is working to establish a committee to organize events of islandwide interest. Other commissioner liaison appointments Island watch include: Chair Judy Titsworth — building and grounds, In an emergency, call 911. To report information on island crime, call the Manatee County Sher- Manatee County Emergency Operations Center (alteriff’s Office Anna Maria substation, 941-708-8899; nate) and road, bridges, drainage, canals and erosion. Vice chair Pat Morton — recycling and solid waste, Bradenton Beach police, 941-778-6311; or Holmes police pension board and EOC. Beach police, 941-708-5804. Carol Soustek — parks and beautification commitcondo with shared pool built in 1994 was sold 11/17/17, tee, code enforcement and planning commission. Kremen to Humphreys for $255,000; list $260,000. Jim Kihm — the Legislature, Manatee County 1801 Gulf Drive N., Unit 156, Runaway Bay, Bra- Council of Governments and ManaSota League of denton Beach, a 691 sfla / 771 sfur 1bed/1bath condo Cities. — Terry O’Connor with shared pool built in 1978 was sold 11/15/17, Lee to Kuhns for $242,500; list $252,000. 1603 Gulf Drive N., Unit 27, Tradewinds, Bradenton Beach, a 380 sfla 1bed/1bath condo with shared pool built in 1971 was sold 11/21/17, Moore to Roblan Rentals LLC for $175,000. FRESH & SHINE THE WORKS Jesse Brisson, broker/associate at Gulf-Bay Realty Full-Service Car Wash, Full-Service Car Wash, PLUS Sealer Wax, PLUS Polish-N-Wax, Under of Anna Maria, can be reached at 941-778-7244.

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The commission also unanimously authorized the mayor to approve an accord with the Westbay Point & Moorings III Condominium Association to trim 20.5 feet of mangroves on city property. The association trimmed the mangroves for more than three decades until it was discovered in 2017 the area in question is on city property. Westbay must provide seven days notice to the city and proof of $1 million in liability insurance before trimming. The commission will next meet at 6 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 23, at city hall, 5801 Marina Drive.

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ArtWalk begins winter events in Holmes Beach

Chip Ragsdale performs Jan. 12 outside Island Gallery West, 5368 Gulf Drive, for patrons heading into the gallery for the first Holmes Beach ArtWalk event of the year. Islander Photos: Bianca BenedĂ

Artist Jay Canterbury talks about the inspiration behind his photography Jan. 12 with Tammy and Brian Smith of Texas at the Anna Maria Island Art League, 5312 Holmes Blvd.

Glass artist Patti Clarke talks Jan. 12 to Zita Vinter of Bradenton and Evelyn Avazier of Orlando about her method for creating a glass hummingbird outside Restless Natives, 5416 Marina Drive, during the Holmes Beach ArtWalk.

Holmes Beach hosts winter craft fair

Tattoo artist Evan Clarke demonstrates his skills with a pen-and-ink drawing of Marilyn Monroe on paper Jan. 12 outside Restless Natives during ArtWalk.

Joyce Karp, director of the Studio at Gulf and Pine in Anna Maria, poses for a photo Jan. 12 with artists Deborah Webster and Corey Wright. Webster, owner of Artspace in Anna Maria, and Wright were two of four artists featured during ArtWalk at the Waterline Marina Resort and Beach Club, 5325 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach.

Kathy and Joe Sever, Longboat Key residents, examine orchids Jan. 13 offered by Wagner Nursery at the Holmes Beach Arts and Crafts Show. BELOW: Robyn Kinkopf of Holmes Beach examines a bauble at the Chakra Sisters booth during the craft show.

Kathy Ramjohn and sons Caleb, 11, and Zane, 13, examine miniature glass figurines Jan. 13 offered by Glass Dogs at the 22nd annual Holmes Beach Arts and Crafts Show at city field, 5801 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. The event, put on by Sunset Productions, benefits Wildlife Inc. of Bradenton Beach, which had a booth displaying rescued owls. Islander Photos: Bianca BenedĂ

LEFT: David Sadkin, director of education for Wildlife Inc. smiles as Odie the screech owl turns his attention to the camera. The Jan. 13 craft show benefited the Bradenton Beach-based wildlife rehab-rescue organization.

THE ISLANDER n Jan. 17, 2018 n 23

Privateers host first Thieves’ Market of the season

Kim “Siren” Boyd, Tiffany “Just Tiffany!” Stripling, Jamie “Capt. One-Eye” Van Deusen, Cindy “Lady Synthia” Meeks, president of the Privateers, Linda Sullivan and Jennifer Price gather in the Privateers’ booth Jan. 13 at the Thieves’ Market in Coquina Beach. All proceeds from the Privateers’ sales support college scholarships and community initiatives.

Pete Kornowski and McKenna Ihde peddle their artwork and henna tattoos at the first Thieves’ Market of the season.

Garrison Hahn, owner of Hahn’s Kettle Corn, scoops freshly made kettle corn into a bag Jan. 13 at the Thieves’ Market in Coquina Beach.

Jamie “Capt. One-Eye” Van Deusen sells corn Jan. 13 for a buck-an-ear at the Anna Maria Island Privateers’ first Thieves’ Market of the winter season at Coquina Beach in Bradenton Beach. Additional markets will be Saturdays, Feb. 10 and March 10. Islander Photos: Bianca Benedí

Roque and Kathy “Giggles” Pastorious examine jewelry offered for sale Jan. 13 at the Thieves’ Market at Coquina Beach.

Center draws a crowd to bingo night

Bingo players sit at tables lining the gym Jan. 12 at the Center of Anna Maria Island for B-I-N-G-O. More than 70 people attended the center’s first bingo night.

David Zaccagnino, Center of Anna Maria Island board president, serving as Bingo caller for the Jan. 12 games, examines Diana Long’s scorecard Jan. 12 as Long claims her second win of the night at the center, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria.

24 n Jan. 17, 2018 n THE ISLanDER

Holmes Beach officials mull ferry, formula business ordinance

By ChrisAnn Silver Esformes Islander Reporter Holmes Beach elected officials were tackling issues held over from 2017 in January. The mayor and commissioners met in a work session Jan. 11 to consider several matters left on the table, including a ferry service and a formula business ordinance. Father and daughter Corey and Mark Hubbard, owners of Tampa Bay Ferry in Madeira Beach, presented a request to the commission to allow their ferry service to operate at Waterline Marina Resort & Beach Club on a loop between Madeira Beach, Egmont Key and Fort DeSoto. Corey Hubbard explained they are not looking for a base of operations, just a place to dock for loading and unloading passengers. Hubbard said she has been in contact with Mayor Bob Johnson since August 2017 via emails, and he indicated to her that parking in the area would be an issue. She presented the commission with a model ordinance that she said would “streamline and simplify the process of regulating waterborne transportation inside regional municipalities.” Commission Chair Judy Titsworth asked if Hubbard had considered docking at the Kingfish Boat Ramp, just west of the Anna Maria Island Bridge on Manatee Avenue in Holmes Beach. Hubbard said they run a “walk-up operation” that works best with hotels or storefronts. Titsworth persisted with parking concerns at Waterline and concluded the discussion saying she would keep the materials to possibly be added to a future meeting agenda. Commission liaisons The commission reviewed changes to a draft ordinance establishing commissioners as liaisons to community and city boards. Titsworth mentioned that the city would be forming a development review committee for staff to review site plans before they go to commission, and a liaison to the board needs to be selected. Commissioner Jim Kihm was concerned about Florida’s Government-in-the-Sunshine Law affecting communications between boards and the commission. City attorney Patricia Petruff explained that communications between commissioners and staff is not subject to the Sunshine Law and liaison communica-

tion with other boards and committees is dependent on the individual board. Petruff said she would add a paragraph to the ordinance to “put some meat on the bones” of the expectations for each liaison to each board or committee, and bring it back for another work session.

site plans. He said he is developing an inventory of site plans that will be “constantly evolving” and also will go to the sites to verify stipulations are followed. Additionally, McGuiness updated the commission on the status of the Ugly Grouper restaurant’s perforBrisson mance stage permit. He said the owners have discussed building a larger building than the one approved on the site plan, but those plans are on hold. Community events McGuinness said a permit for the music stage was Commissioner Rick Hurst pre- issued in December 2017, in accordance with the site sented his plans for a committee to plan, but the contractor hired to build the stage has develop and host city-led community been indefinitely delayed. He said the owner has 180 events. days from the issuance of the permit to begin work. McGuinness He said he received an email from a resident citing “First Friday” events Formula businesses with food trucks and entertainment The commission and staff continued discussion in another city and asking if Holmes of an ordinance regulating formula businesses in the Beach would consider similar activi- city. ties. The commission enacted and twice extended a Hurst said he was concerned that moratorium on formula businesses in order to develop Petruff Sunshine Laws could complicate the the ordinance. process of planning an event and hiring vendors. The most recent extension will expire in Febru“It’s a fine line,” Petruff advised, adding that many ary. commissioners meet with “advisory or breakfast comBased on case law provided by land planner Bill mittees” to brainstorm, then bring ideas back to the Brisson, and recommendations from Petruff and her commission to see if their fellow commissioners are aide Alexander Stewart, the commission agreed to on board. direct Brisson to develop an ordinance that creates a Hurst said he had spoken with some nonprofits that balance between formula and small businesses. might be interested in sponsoring city events. Brisson again expressed concerns that an argument The commission reached consensus for Hurst to for preserving the “character” of the city by keeping continue working on the plans and come back with formula businesses out would not hold up in court. suggestions. Titsworth said, “If we create an ordinance more for balance than character, that might help.” Mayor’s report Brisson said the problem is that the city doesn’t Mayor Bob Johnson said he is continuing work on have a unifying element. an inventory of the city’s nonconforming lots. “Our uniqueness is our eclectic style,” Brisson Titsworth asked why the city needs such an said. “I think the best you can do and have a shot at it accounting. is in the downtown.” Petruff responded, saying the city needs to “underThe “downtown,” the area at the intersection of stand our nonconformities.” She said each time an Gulf and Marina drives, comprises shopping centers ordinance for a non-conforming lot is adopted, it likely built in the 1950s, mostly with small retail stores and makes another neighboring lot nonconforming, and the restaurants. The commission is concerned with what city needs to recognize and track these changes, some might be built in that area if the older commercial of which have no permits on record. developments are demolished in a storm or sell and “We’ve got to start somewhere,” Petruff said. are redeveloped. Stewart agreed with Brisson, saying, “I think the Building ofﬁcial’s report south side is going to be a quagmire,” referring to the Building official Jim McGuinness presented guide- area of the city where Benderson Development Co. lines for a site-plan recertification program that would operates a plaza that includes several formula busiinclude an annual compliance review for all approved nesses. Petruff suggested the planning commission should include the business community in its ongoing review of comprehensive plan and the vision statement for the future of the city. PLEASE SEE FeRRy, nExT PAGE

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Steube’s Sunshine Act would let Florida light linger later

By Terry O’Connor Islander Reporter State Sen. Greg Steube, R-Sarasota, was getting a haircut and an earful from nearby constituents. Steube’s barbershop chorus wanted the state to stop changing the time forward and back, complaining they were tired of fiddling with buttons to change household and car clocks. They no longer want to spring forward and fall back, they groused. They asked the 39-year-old Steube

Ferry continued from page 20 Additionally, she suggested owners of the downtown buildings be brought into discussions and a committee be formed to get resident and business owner input. Petruff said the city has focused its definition of formula business on restaurants and retail, exempting “a myriad of other things” including grocery stores, banks and gas stations. She said maybe the city should reconsider these exemptions in the downtown area, so that existing formula businesses would be grandfathered, but a formula business could not replace a small business. Anna Maria has an ordinance prohibiting chain stores and Bradenton Beach has prevented formula businesses in its comprehensive plan. The commission agreed to direct Brisson to work on an ordinance that will focus on preserving the character of the downtown area. Titsworth said, “We’ve really got to try to save what we’ve got.” Titsworth’s father, Hugh Holmes Sr., is part-owner of the Island Shopping Center and the Holmes Business Center in the downtown area. The commission will meet in regular session at 6 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 23, at city hall, 5801 Marina Drive.

Bradenton-born politician to let there be light later in Florida’s winter evenings. They were preaching to the choir. Steube was already preparing to file Senate Bill 858 to place Florida on daylight saving time yearround, said Steube aide Alex Blair. After filing the bill Nov. 29, Steube also took the public pulse on time preferences using online and Facebook polls. Public feedback ran roughly 80 percent in favor of retaining daylight saving time yearround, Blair said in a December phone interview with The Islander. Anna Maria Island Mayor Dan Murphy isn’t impressed with Steube’s time-change bill. “I think Sen. Steube has too much time on his hands,” said Murphy. Others embrace the idea. “I, personally, would love it if we had longer hours of sunlight in the winter,” said attorney Cari Roth, the Tallahassee lobbyist employed by Holmes Beach to monitor the Legislature. It’s not the first time Steube has taken up the timechange gauntlet. In 2015, Steube proposed the Sunshine Protection Act to keep Florida on daylight saving time all year, but it failed to pass the House. Passing SB 858 would put Florida in select company with Hawaii and Arizona as the only states without a time change. With daylight saving time already observed eight months out of the year, March to November, proponents say, it would be a minor adjustment to eliminate four months of “standard time.” SB 858 is one of many pieces of legislation Steube has filed in advance of the 2018 session, which will begin Jan. 9. Steube’s committee assignments include judiciary chairman and vice chair of the banking and insurance committee. He is also a member of five more committees,

including agriculture; children, families and elder affairs and regulated industries; the joint committee on public counsel oversight; appropriations subcommittees on finance; and tax and education. As might be expected given his committee spectrum, Steube has filed more than 50 bills already for the 2018 session and co-introduced at least eight measures. The entire state Senate had filed 650 bills as of Dec. 19, 2017. SB 858 has been referred to community affairs, commerce and tourism and rules committees, according to information posted on flsenate.gov. If SB 858 passes the Florida Legislature and is signed by the governor, it would go into effect Jan. 1, 2019. Florida is scheduled to spring forward again at 2 a.m. Sunday, March 11, 2018.

‘Fast Time’ began in 1916

In 1916, during World War I, Germany became the first country to adopt daylight saving time to save energy for the war effort, according to timeanddate.com. “Fast Time,” as it was called, was introduced in 1918 in the United States. Seven months later, DST was repealed, but some cities, including Pittsburgh, Boston and New York, continued to use it. In 1942, at the height of World War II, President Franklin D. Roosevelt instituted year-round daylight saving time or “War Time.” After Japan surrendered in mid-August 1945, the time change was relabeled “Peace Time.” From 1945 to 1966, there were no uniform rules for DST in the United States, which caused confusion for trains, buses and the broadcasting industry. The Uniform Time Act was adopted in 1966.

26 n Jan. 17, 2018 n THE ISLanDER

By Lisa Neff

Light littering the night

When I moved to Anna Maria, I could stand on the Gulf beach near the Sandbar Restaurant at night, look south, and the brightest light I could see was miles away — the traffic signal at Cortez Road and Gulf Drive in Bradenton Beach. This was 12 years ago, in late summer, and there were many nights on the beach when I couldn’t see 10 feet ahead of me because of the darkness. My eldest nephew was 6 years old at the time and he saw his first Neff cluster of stars while standing on the Anna Maria shore. I still see starry nights on Anna Maria Island, but the night sky is noticeably brighter than 12 years ago, especially when sea turtle nesting season ends and the “lights out” on the beach regulation is lifted. The Bortle Dark Sky Scale is a system for describing the amount of nighttime light pollution. At lightpollution.map.info, a map indicates Anna Maria Island rates a four on the Bortle scale of one to nine, with a one being an “excellent dark sky” and nine being an “inner city bright sky.” No. 4 is described as “rural/ suburban transition,” where only large “structures” in the central galaxy are visible. We have “low light pollution,” according to the Bortle Dark Sky Scale. That’s too much light pollution for a west Bradenton friend and astronomy buff who used to head here weekly to observe the night sky. now he packs up his

telescope and drives east, toward Myakka and Parrish. This has me concerned the night will come when This guy yearns for dark skies at night the way some we won’t be able to see the Milky Way with the naked seek white sand beaches during the day. eye. He’s not alone. So to islanders: Why don’t we observe “lights out” You know all about “lights out” on the beach for year-round and islandwide? sea turtles, which can become disoriented by artificial light, but night light also negatively impacts bird migration and the breeding and feeding behavior of fish and frogs, as well as humans’ circadian rhythm, immune function and hormone production. Research also indicates light pollution disrupts coral reproduction, which is timed to moonlight. Meanwhile, other studies reveal light pollution is steadily increasing around the world — about 2.2 percent per year on average but probably more since the satellite providing the measurements cannot detect the newer sources of light put out by LEDs. A partial map for Florida shows nighttime light pollution using the Bortle Dark Sky Scale. The map uses colors to code light pollution. Black designates “excellent dark sky,” white shows “inner city” bright skies and the red, yellow and orange show degrees of “suburban” skies.

Fog casts ghostly pall on pier

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Restaurants ‘go strawless,’ engage sustainable practices

By ChrisAnn Silver Esformes Islander Reporter They say a picture is worth a thousand words. For Tanya Licata, a bartender at the Bridgetender Inn and Dockside Bar in Bradenton Beach, a video of a sea turtle in distress caught her attention. “I saw the video of the sea turtle with the straw in its nose and it broke my heart. It was awful,” Licata said, referring to a video on the internet. “I was out here picking up, like, 300 straws a day, and I know if they’re on the ground, they’re in the water,” Licata said. Licata said she approached her supervisor, who agreed the restaurant — located on Sarasota Bay — could do something to help the environment. now, the Bridgetender Inn uses biodegradable paper straws. The restaurant is one of many on Anna Maria Island to “go strawless” or offer a paper straw option to patrons. The Waterfront Restaurant in Anna Maria on North Bay Drive was among the first on the island to ditch plastic and switch to environmentally friendly practices, including cardboard takeout containers. “When you find out that in our country we use 500 million plastic straws every day, its mindblowing,” said Suzi Fox, Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring executive director. By Sandy Ambrogi, sandy@islander.org

AME calendar

• Tuesday, Jan. 23, second-grade field trip to Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, Sarasota. • 5-7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 23, STEM night with Holmes Beach Police Department Chief Bill Tokajer’s Grill Crew and Mad Science presentation in the auditorium. • 9 a.m. Thursday, Jan. 25, kindergarten field trip to Mixon Fruit Farms, Bradenton. • 8:30-11:30 a.m. Friday, Feb. 2, blood drive. • 1:15 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 7, early release. • Tuesday, Feb. 13, third-grade play. • Monday, Feb. 19, Presidents Day, no school. • Saturday, Feb. 24, AME-PTO Fling dinner, dance and auction at 102 48th St., Holmes Beach. Anna Maria Elementary is at 4700 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. For more information, call the school at 941708-5525. EAT-IN OR TAKE-OUT

Sue Heiting, left, her husband Steve, and Jim and Heather Pisano, all of Helen, Georgia, are served libations Dec. 20 — with environmentally friendly paper straws — at Bridgetender Inn Dockside Bar and Grill in Bradenton Beach by bartender Tanya Licata, right. Islander Photo: ChrisAnn Silver Esformes

“Straws are one of the main pieces of trash we find during our beach cleanups. It’s exciting to see so many restaurants going strawless or finding alternatives.” Ed Chiles, owner of the Beach House Restaurant in Bradenton Beach, the Sandbar Restaurant in Anna Maria and the Mar Vista on Longboat Key — all on the water — said his restaurants are taking part in the strawless campaign. However, Chiles is taking the effort further. His restaurants incorporate practices that help sustain resources. “Our top priority is to create great experiences for our guests,” Chiles said. “We go out of our way to do that in a sustainable manner because that’s critically important to protecting and restoring our environment.” Chiles’s restaurants use composting and serve

AME-PTO calls for donations for spring gala

Aloha! Organizers of the Anna Maria Elementary gala Saturday, Feb. 24, are calling for businesses and community members to contribute to the evening’s fundraising. The Parent-Teacher Organization’s largest fundraiser of the year has a luau theme, and will be held at a beachfront residence on 48th Street in Holmes Beach. Tickets, priced at $60 each, include dinner and open bar for the evening. Silent and live auctions will take place. There also will be music and dancing. Donations of goods and services are needed, including salon and restaurant gift certificates, merchandise or gift cards, artwork, bicycles and adventure activities, such as paddle boarding or kayak rentals. The larger ticket items will be offered in the live

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local seafood and produce grown on an organic farm or purchased from local farmers. “To date we have recycled over 15 tons of oyster and clam shells from our three restaurants alone,” Chiles said, referring to a partnership with the Gulf Coast Oyster Recycle & Restoration Project and Manatee County, which collects and reuses bivalve shells to develop new oyster grounds. Oyster beds improve water quality and reduce shoreline erosion. Fox said the efforts of island restaurants to encourage environmentally friendly practices has led to increased public awareness. “People see videos like the one of the sea turtle, then they see restaurants here actively doing things to keep that from happening,” Fox said. “This shows people ‘We care about our beautiful island ecosystem, and you should, too.’”

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auction. These usually include trips, fishing charters, hotel stays and beach accommodations. In addition, each class at AME is busy creating a project for the auction, normally prompting fierce bidding wars among parents. Tickets for the gala will go on sale Friday, Jan. 19, at the AME front desk and on line at AMEPTO.org. To make a donation or for more information, contact Emily Wettstein at 941-224-9781 or emilypwettstein@icloud.com.

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The Islander welcomes news of the milestones in readers’ lives — weddings, anniversaries, births, deaths, travels and other events. Submit notices and photographs to news@islander.org.

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Dolphin Dash on Holmes Beach streets raises AME cash By Kevin P. Cassidy Islander Reporter no matter who wins, this road race adds a dash of dollars to the Anna Maria Elementary School Parent Teach Organization ongoing fundraising campaign. Approximately 180 participants arrived Jan. 13 at Anna Maria Elementary School to participate in the decade-long AME Dolphin Dash 5k race and 1-mile fun run. It’s a family-friendly event that starts at AME, winds through the residential streets of Holmes Beach and Cassidy doubles back to finish at the school. Fifty-eight-year-old Mark Carver of nashville was first to navigate the loop, crossing the finish line in 18:26, while 45-year-old Jennifer Rowley of Bradenton was the top overall female finisher with a time of 21:56. Other females among the top runners include Manatee High cross country and track coach Rae Ann Darling Reed, finishing in second place overall while also taking first place in the 40+ Masters division with a time of 22:39. Susan McMillan of Wamauma finished third overall and won the 50+ Grand Masters division with a time of 23:02. Island resident Sandy Meneley of Holmes Beach took first place in the 60+ Senior Grand Masters division, while Erma McMullen won the top spot in the 70+ Veteran age division. Wayne Diny, a 51-year old Tampa resident, won the male 40+ Master’s division with a time of 21:50, while 56-year-old Matt McMillan of Wimauma showed it really is a family event by matching his wife’s firstplace finish in the Grand Master division. Sarasota resident Karl Haas won the Senior Grand Master division with a time of 22:28, while 73-year-old Frank Davis of Rock Falls, Illinois, won the men’s veteran division with a time of 24:25. Other noteable results include a fourth-place overall finish and second place in the 35-39 division by Islander real estate reporter Jesse Brisson. Other top islanders are Laura Doughty, who finished second in the 55-59 division; Gabriella Gilbert, who won the 10-12 division; and Jayden Sparks, who placed third in the 9-and-under division. The race was well organized and a good time was had by all as evident by the camaraderie among race officials and participants. To top it all off, everyone helped raise money for a good cause.

Kids dash by Jan. 13 in the Dolphin Dash 1-mile fun run. Islander Photo: Jack Elka place finish in Flight B by one stroke over Carol PatPlay gets underway at 9 a.m. every Wednesday and terson. Penny Williams finished alone in third with a Saturday at the Anna Maria City Hall pits. Warmups 2-over-par 34. begin at 8:45 a.m. followed by random team selection. Jana Samuels carded an even-par 32 to win Flight There is no charge to play and everyone is welcome. C by two strokes over Carol Duncan and Connie Livanos, who finished in a tie for second place. Amy Tripp’s 4-under-par 28 garnered her a firstplace finish in Flight D. Eileen Witzgail was one stroke back in second, while Penny Auch and Beverly neville tied for third with a 2-over-par 34. Look online at www.islander.org for more photos. Horseshoe news Four teams emerged from pool play and battled for the day’s supremacy during Jan. 10 horeseshoe action at the Anna Maria City Hall horseshoe pits. Jay Disbrow and neil Hennessey rolled to an easy 23-9 victory over Hank Huyghe and Bob Brown, while Rod Bussey and Tim Sofran cruised past Tom Farrington and Bob Lee by a 23-8 score. Bussey and Sofran earned a trip to the winner’s circle with a 21-14 victory over Disbrow-Hennessey. Three teams advanced to the knockout round in the Jan. 13 action. The team of Bob Palmer and Dom Livedoti drew the bye into the final and watched as Bussey and Bob Mason held off Bob Rowley 23-17. Bussey and Mason stayed hot, defeating Palmer and Livedoti 21-13 to earn the day’s bragging rights. Runners in the Dolphin Dash 5k race take off from AME, weaving through streets in Holmes Beach to loop back to the finish line at the school. Islander Photo: Jack Elka

Key Royale golf news It was another full week of golf action at Key Royale Club, starting with the men’s modified Stableford-system match Jan. 8. Larry Pippel won individual honors with a plus-5, one point ahead of second-place finishers Gerry Elson, Gary Duncan and Hoyt Miller. Duncan and Elson’s score helped teammates Marty Hicks and Blake Ress to a combined score of plus-7 to win the team competition. The women took the course Jan. 9 for a nine-hole, individual-low-net match in four flights. Joy Kaiser’s 1-under-par 31 earned her first place in Flight A. Helen Pollock was alone in second with a 1-over-par 33, while Phyllis Roe and Pam Lowry tied for third with matching 34s. Tootie Wagner’s 4-under-par 28 earned her a first-

SportShort

Center puts out call for select soccer players

Holmes Beach resident Sandy Meneley and Karl Haas of Sarasota were the Grand Masters champions in the 2018 AME Dolphin Dash 5k race. Islander Photo: Kevin P. Cassidy Southernaire Fishing Charters

The Center of Anna Maria is seeking players to compete in tournaments on a select soccer team. The team, coached by Rick Hurst — yes, Holmes Beach Commissioner Rick Hurst — will play in the competitive league for boys U12. The player cost for registration, fees, uniform and equipment is $275. Players must be born in 2006 or later. Mandatory tryouts will be at 6:30 p.m. Friday, Jan. 26, at the center, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria. The team will play tournaments Feb. 16-18, April 14-15, April 28-29 and May 4-6. For more information, call Will Schenerlein at the center, 941-778-1908.

Anna Maria Island Tides

Date

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

1:37p 1:52p 2:11p 12:40a 1:26a 2:19a 3:21a 4:41a

HIGH

1.1 11:20p 1.2 11:58p 1.2 — 1.9 2:33p 1.8 3:02p 1.6 3:35p 1.4 4:14p 1.2 4:57p

2.1 2.0 — 1.3 1.4 1.5 1.6 1.7

6:24a 6:54a 7:24a 7:55a 8:29a 9:04a 9:42a 10:23a

LOW

Moon

-0.6 5:05p 0.9 New -0.6 5:47p 0.8 -0.5 6:33p 0.7 -0.4 7:24p 0.6 -0.3 8:21p 0.5 -0.1 9:28p 0.4 0.1 10:45p 0.3 0.3 — — 1st

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

THE ISLANDER n Jan. 17, 2018 n 29

Careful timing can put you on the trail of fish By Capt. Danny Stasny Islander Reporter Fishing around the barrage of cold fronts we are experiencing can be quite good — if you pick the right days. You must pick your days. And you can pick your fish. But the days have to be the calm ones between cold fronts. A lot of action is occurring, but it’s got to be calm in order to have a good experience out there. Big amberjack are being caught around the wrecks offshore, while hogfish, Stasny grunts and snappers are being taken around the ledges and artificial reefs. Don’t forget about tripletail. As elusive and confusing as these fish can be to figure out, they can be simple to catch when you find them. Speaking of tripletail, on my recent Southernaire charter, I found myself floating in and out of patches of thick fog as I patrolled one of the trap lines, giving everything a mysterious and eerie feeling. But let me tell you, the tripletail were in abundance. I couldn’t believe it. So, there I was, up in the tower cruising the trap line and literally stopping at almost every buoy. Mark Willis and his son Scott, both of Bradenton, and their friend Chip Legassey of Harbour Isle on Perico Island were busy baiting up as we slowly approached the fish. Scott cast to the first fish, a 12-pounder, which immediately hit the bait. Scott tightened up and set the hook, letting the fish make a straight shot toward the boat. It spit the hook and slowly swam back to its buoy. “Cast another bait in there!” I hollered down from up in the tower. Scott did just that and the fish hit again. We were cheering as Scott fought the fish to the boat. Next, it was Chip’s turn. Same deal. We approached the buoy. Chip placed the bait perfectly in front of the fish and it ate the shrimp without hesitation. Chip quickly set the hook and cranked the tripletail boatside. This one fell just short of the 15-inch minimum and we gently put it back and watched it swim away. The third fish, another big one — coming in at 10 pounds — was hooked by Mark. This stubborn fish took a few tries before it would take the bait. In fact, Mark cast so close to the buoy, the shrimp was flush against the trap line. “I’m hung up,” Mark said. “Let it sit. See if he’ll eat it off the line for you,” I replied. And sure enough, that’s what happened. Drag peeled off Mark’s reel as the “crappie on steroids” turned sideways trying to get away. Persistently, Mark fought the fish until it was finally boat side, photographed, and in the cooler.

Thomas Hickey and wife Danielle, visiting from Columbus, Ohio, teamed up Jan. 10 on this nice 12-pound tripletail a few miles off of Egmont Key. It was hiding under a patch of floating grass when it ate the large shrimp on Hickey’s hook. The family also caught plenty of snapper, sheepshead and grunts for dinner on their charter trip with Capt. Aaron Lowman. After a day like that, everyone was stoked. Instead of seeing double though, I guess you could say we were seeing triple. Capt. Warren Girle is working charters inshore on the recent cold, windy days and, despite the conditions, he’s doing quite well. Targeting sheltered areas such as residential canals where seawalls and docks hold fish is proving to be an excellent choice for Girle’s anglers. Sheepshead, black drum and redfish are being caught frequently with a few flounder and catch-and-release snook in the mix, with live shrimp as the preferred bait. On calmer days when venturing into Sarasota Bay is more welcoming, Girle is finding exceptional numbers of spotted seatrout and rallies of 50-60 fish. Capt. Aaron Lowman is guiding anglers in the back bays, canals and creeks for shelter from the cold and wind. By doing so, he’s running across sheep-

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shead and redfish, both indulging themselves on live shrimp. Casting around docks, rocks and bars is proving sufficient to locate the fish. Along the beaches, Lowman is finding pompano and plenty of whiting hungry for shrimp. On calm days, while in the Gulf of Mexico, tripletail are at the top of the menu. Capt. David White of Anna Maria Charters took advantage of a couple of calm days to venture offshore. The predominant bite — when you can get out there — is grunts, snappers, hogfish and tripletail, all readily taking live shrimp. Moving into the bays, pompano and spotted seatrout are dominating the bite for White. Both species are showing interest in small jigs garnished with a piece of fresh-cut shrimp — especially the pompano. Jim Malfese at the Rod & Reel Pier is seeing redfish being caught in respectable sizes and numbers. Slot- and over-slot reds are being caught by anglers willing to chill and wait for a bite. Live shrimp cast under the pier deck is yielding results. Mixed in with the redfish are sheepshead, black drum and flounder. On the calmer days, when the weather is warmer, bouncing a shrimp-tipped jig along the shore adjacent to the pier is resulting in a look from a pompano or two. Capt. Jason Stock is patrolling offshore wrecks when the weather permits, where persistence pays off, especially for amberjack. Casting top-water plugs such as surface poppers in these areas is attracting AJs — the largest weighing in at 18 pounds. Yes, that’s right. Talk about some sore arms for the unsuspecting angler who reeled that one in. Aside from gigantic amberjack, goliath grouper are on Stock’s offshore agenda. Fish in the 100- to 200-pound range are the norm. Go big or go home, cappy. For more of the past week’s fishing photos, go to www.islander.org. Luke Barnicle, 5, from Chicago, caught and released a sheepshead Jan. 8 while fishing Sarasota Bay with his family on a charter trip with Capt. Warren Girle. Shrimp was the bait of choice, resulting in numerous redfish — all released as well.

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30 n Jan. 17, 2018 n THE ISLanDER

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biz

BY SANDY AMBROGI

Bookings meet Waterline resort expectations

Luxury resort accommodations have arrived on Anna Maria Island. The Waterline Marina Resort and Beach Club, 5325 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, opened quietly nov. 30, 2017, after numerous long delays getting off the ground. Finally, the day arrived for locals to check out the bar and restaurant and look over the common areas and waterfront view — and guests began checking into the resort. It’s been a little over eight weeks since Waterline opened its doors. On Dec. 30, 2017, Waterline hosted 45 guests who arrived for a wedding. The Plimsoll banquet room was the site of a reception after a beach wedding, according to destination sales executive Grant Hart. It was first of several weddings and rehearsal dinners on the books for Waterline. Two more weddings

Waterline Marina Resort and Beach Club general manager Sandy Zinck greets customers to Eliza Ann’s Coastal Kitchen Nov. 30 on the hotel’s opening day. Zinck said Jan. 10 the property is enjoying brisk business and has steady bookings into the spring. Islander Photo: Sandy Ambrogi are booked and Hart said she is fielding calls for information from brides almost daily. “People are finding us,” Hart said Jan. 10. “We have even had some walk-ins, though most are reservations.”

Hart manages bookings for special events at Waterline and is excited about the response. She said the hotel was nearly full the week of Jan. 14 with a group meeting from a Cincinnati company. “Right now, we only have six units total left for that week,” Hart said. Occupancy has been “steady” since the doors opened and weekends are best-sellers. Feb. 2 and Feb. 3 are sold out, Hart says, and advanced booking for the first week of February is at 80-90 percent. Nightly rates run $429-$499 for a two-room suite. Meetings and banquets also are on the books. The banquet room at Waterline has space to seat 94 people. The hotel also offers the outdoor covered patio — Cobb’s Corner — for events. An outdoor wedding rehearsal dinner is on the books and a local business held its holiday party there in December. Hart said they’re working to engage locals in dayto-day operations by offering activities such as yoga on the promenade, and taking part in this season’s Holmes Beach art walks, featuring artwork from the Studio at Gulf and Pine and complimentary refreshments. Looking toward spring break, Hart said advance bookings are at 50 percent. “Most people book about two months out,” Hart said. “But we really aren’t that typical spring breaktype of destination.” Eliza Ann’s Coastal Kitchen at the Waterline is finding its rhythm, according to general manager Sandy Zinck. She said the eatery enjoyed brisk business through the holidays — 120 to 130 guests on some nights — and is now serving mostly locals. Eliza Ann’s has 76 seats, including 14 at the bar.

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THE ISLanDER n Jan. 17, 2018 n 31

“Happy hour from 4-6 p.m. is overflowing at the bar many days,” Zinck said. Another concern for locals at the Waterline is downtown Holmes Beach parking is at a premium — even before the hotel opened. Zinck said the hotel is looking into offering valet service and guests planning to visit the beach can hop the hotel’s private trolley for a lift. Zinck is pleased with the operations since the doors opened. “It’s going really well and we are very pleased with the response from the locals and the tourist base,” Zink said Jan. 10. “The teams — kitchen, front of the house — are operating well together. We’re looking forward to a busy year.”

Early risers

Mike Sales, Caitlyn Haley, Capt. Kim Ibasfalean and Norma Buchanon enjoy breakfast Jan. 10 at the Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce earlyrisers event at the Anna Maria Island Beach Cafe at the Manatee Public Beach, 4000 Manatee Ave., Holmes Beach. The chamber is alternating monthly breakfast and lunch networking events in 2018. Islander photo: Courtesy Terri Kinder

BizCal

Chambers host get-togethers, look to spring events

The Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce will host its first business-card mixer of the year at 5 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 24, at the Waterline Marina Resort and Beach Club, 5325 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. A ribbon-cutting will be held in addition to the presentation of this year’s trolley awards. Cost is $5 for members and $10 for nonmembers. The AMI chamber is calling for food trucks and vendors to participate in this year’s Beach ’n’ Food Truck Festival, which will be 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Saturday, April 14, at Coquina Beach in Bradenton Beach. Applications are available on the chamber website. For more information, call the island chamber at 941-778-1541, visit the office and tourist center at 5313 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, or go to the website at annamariaislandchamber.org. The Longboat Key Chamber of Commerce will host a BAH — business after-hours mixer — 5-7 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 25, at Longboat Massage in the Centre Shops of Longboat Key, 5350 Gulf of Mexico Drive,

Longboat Key. Appetizers will be furnished by the Lazy Lobster and complimentary beer and wine will be served. Vocalist Katt Hefner will entertain. Cost is $5 for members and $10 for nonmembers. For information about the LBK chamber or reservations for events, call the chamber at 941-383-2466, visit the website at longboatkeychamber.com or the office at 5390 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key.

Winning mixologists

Ugly Grouper servers Megan Maravich and Brian Kunkemoeller show off their Best Bartender Award at the Kokonut Hut Bar Clash in December, an event at the Gulf Drive Cafe in Bradenton Beach. The Ugly Grouper, 5704 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, is an outdoor bar-restaurant-music and sports venue. Islander Photo: Terry O’Connor

32 n Jan. 17, 2018 n THE ISLanDER

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ITEMS FOR SALE

HELP WANTED

ARTIFICIAL “FIG” TREE: Six-feet tall, $25. 941941-6072.

HOUSEKEEPER: PART-TIME at Haley’s Motel. Must have own transportation and speak English. Prior experience required. Haley’s is a nonsmoking property. 941-778-5405.

QUEEN MATTRESS, AS new, double recliner, nearly new. $100 each. 941-778-5542. FREE RATTAN LOVESEAT, sofa plus coordinating side chair. Good condition. 508-455-7191.

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ANTIQUE PARTNER DESK: All wood, $1,000. See at The Islander office, 3218 E. Bay Drive, Holmes Beach.

FREEBIE ITEMS FOR SALE

References available • 941-720-7519

Bed: A bargain!

King, Queen, Full & Twin, pre-owned from $30 new/used. 941-922-5271 www.sleepking.net

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

ANNOUNCEMENTS WANTED: WORKOUT DVDs and retired but working XBox, Wii units with games for Ministry of Presence for kids and teens in Haiti. Deliver to The Islander, 3218 E. Bay Drive, Holmes Beach. WANTED: YOUR OLD cell phone for recycling. Deliver to The Islander, 3218 E. Bay Drive, Holmes Beach. AERIAL PHOTOS of Anna Maria Island. View and purchase online: www.jackelka.com. FREE GUN LOCK courtesy of Project Childsafe, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and Holmes Beach Police Department. Pick up at The Islander office, 3218 E. Bay Drive, Holmes Beach. Don’t be sorry, be safe.

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ROSER THRIFT SHOP: Open 9:30 a.m.-2p.m. Tuesday and Thursday and Friday, 10 a.m.-1p.m. Saturday. Donations preferred 9 a.m.-11 a.m. Wednesdays. 511 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. 941-779-2733.

AdoptA-Pet Rollo is a happy boy! He’s a 3-year-old mixed breed. He has all his shots and he’s in great health. Available to adopt: www.moonraceranimalrescue.com or email moonraceranimalrescue@gmail.com Call Lisa Williams at 941-345-2441 or visit the Islander next to Walgreens in Holmes Beach for more …

D E V W H E L P W H A M

U L N I

I L S S E Y E N I A M N L IA S A N T T O H OA M E R B L EA L OY D O S I G T R I H AI T E L I T O Z A N E A

S P A T O R A E Y M A S S A T O F OU A T A G E R E A I T A L S A H C A T E D O Y A G G A O E T A S T K I S T

S T A A I L D I T S T U E L S E

E R I C A

T S R IA C A M I I B N I T C H S E A I N O I L R O B S S E E E D

S M A R L O A D E A N N A L M S P IE I J E T S N E S U A P E L L L I P O M I N A T I N K S T EA R C A L A R I R W I O A I N A C H T H E L S O N E R I S E S T R D H O U P E

M R S C

C A R Y I F K I M E R O S E S S E D S U B P R G E A A D I N D G E S A D T R L A U I O N G N D S T

D A U L N B G U E A M R O E R U E I S P A

A N T E S

S T A M P A N N

I T C H

S S T P

REPORTER WANTED: Full- to part-time. Print media, newspaper experience or journalism degree required. Apply via email with letter of interest to news@islander.org.

KIDS FOR HIRE MY NAME IS AIDAIN, I live in Holmes Beach I’m available to do any small yard, house chores for a fee. I do dog walking, pet sitting or run small errands. I’m available after school, 4-9 p.m. or all day Saturday and Sunday. I can be reached at 941-243-4473. Text or call. Thank you. KIDS FOR HIRE ads are FREE for up to three weeks for Island youths under 16 looking for work. Ads must be placed in person at The Islander office, 3218 E. Bay Drive, Holmes Beach.

SERVICES

T.H.S. CLEANING: RESIDENTIAL, COMMERCIAL vacation rentals. Dependable and detailed. 941756-4570.

FOUND WALLET: BRADENTON Beach, near Seventh Street and Gulf Drive. Description required to claim. 734-464-6978.

U FLY I drive your car anywhere in the USA. Airport runs, anywhere. Office, 941-447-6389. 941-545-6688.

YOU CAN HELP! Fosters and volunteers needed for Moonracer No Kill Animal Rescue. Email: moonraceranimalrescue@gmail.com.

O R A P E X I D E O O I E D D S

RESORT ASSISTANT AND housekeepers needed for island resort. Up to 32 hours a week. Flexible schedule, must be able to work weekends. Call 941-778-7153 for appointment or send resume to: islands58@aol.com.

FOUND: A WATCH that was found at the beach was turned in to the Holmes Beach police department Jan. 7. Call for more information, 941-7085800, ext. 243 office.

TRANSPORTATION

J U D A H

LINEN PRESSER PART-time: Flexible person for fine bed and table linen pressing. Some English required. Apply in person: Key Cleaners , 5390 Gulf of Mexico Drive #105 , Centre Shops, Longboat Key.

LOST & FOUND

PET PAL PET sitting: Short and long term, in your house or mine. 18-year Island resident. 941-7045937. e.davies5937@gmail.com.

ANSWERS TO JAN. 17 PUZZLE

NOW HIRING: CUSTOMER service representatives. All shifts, flexible schedules. Circle K, 2513 N. Gulf Drive , Bradenton Beach. 941-778-3756 . Stop by or apply online: www.circlek.com.

ISLAND COMPUTER GUY, 37 years experience. On-site PC repairs, upgrades, buying assistance and training. Call Bill, 941-778-2535.

PETS