astheworldterns 6
Pines Trailer Park hoa votes to buy park land. 3
Q&a 030823 3
county backs state parking garage takeover. 4
Meetings 4
Opinions 6-7
Looking back. 7
WMfr to assess vacation rentals as commercial properties. 8
BB, pier restaurant negotiate expansion. 9
AMI Happenings
Save the date. 10-11 announcements. 10-12 13
Gathering. 14
Obituaries 14-15
hB says farewell to 2 staffers. 16
In focus for fISh. 17
Quiet start for food trucks. 18
NYT puzzle 18
Beach access advocates amend complaint. 20
Streetlife 20
Wildlife rescuers raise eaglet to nest. 22
Manatee rescued after boat strike. 23
Krc couples champ named. 24
Snook season opens. 25
TideWatch 25 rescuers aid dolphin. 26
Breaking away for birding. 27
CLASSIFIEDS. 28-28
Isl Biz: 30
PropertyWatch 31
News of the sale of the Bradenton Beach Marina came from the Bradenton Beach attorney, but the seller and buyer have no comment. The sale apparently took place Jan. 11. More, page 2. Islander file Photo
The stakes are high for some Holmes Beach businesses heading into spring break.
“This upcoming spring break is a make or break,” Kathy Smart, co-owner of Minnie’s Beach Cafe, 5360 Gulf Drive, told The Islander March 4.
In addition to rising costs of goods and rent, some businesses in the area have struggled in the face of the city center improvement project at the crossroads of “downtown” Holmes Beach.
The $3,001,460 project began last September and involves improving drainage infrastructure and adding roadway markings, bicycle lanes, sidewalks, crosswalks, street lighting and landscaping from the intersection of Gulf and Marina drives to the 5600 block of Marina.
In the meantime, construction has TUrN To sPriNG breaK, Page 4
By robert anderson Islander reporter
With spring break’s arrival, the beach beckons and bewares get shared.
Beachgoers are bound for time in the sun and thus, first responders are due for one of the busiest periods on Anna Maria Island.
“We know there’s going to be a lot more people on the island and that potentially can cause serious issues,” Randy Warren, public information officer for Manatee County Sheriff’s Office, said March 2.
Warren said MCSO deputies, who patrol Anna Maria under a contract with the city, will be joined by the county’s special response team and mounted patrol units in policing the beaches some weekends this spring. The MCSO also will deploy marine patrols in greater numbers.
The break season will last into late April but Manatee County School District students, as well as some other Florida school
The homeowners in the Pines Trailer Park, 103 Church Ave. in Bradenton Beach, said they voted Feb. 24 to form a cooperative.
The park owner, Jackson Partnership of Bradenton, announced Jan. 25 its proffer of the land leased by the residents for their mobile homes in the park.
The Pines Mobile Park Homeowners Association now is tasked with following up the purchase and forming the co-op.
The partnership, with Richard and William Jackson as its officers, informed the HOA it would list the park for sale at $16 million but first offered the park to the HOA members.
The Florida Mobile Home Act, which governs mobile home lots, requires the park owner give 45 days notice of an intent to sell to the unit owners.
To purchase the property, the HOA members would split the cost among the 87 units into shares. With the $16 million price tag, each owner would be responsible for $183,908, assuming the shares are equal.
Real estate professional Bill Gorman is helping the HOA forge its offer, according to four park residents who spoke to The Islander March 2, but asked to not be identified.
According to those residents, the unit owners have been asked by the owner/partnership to keep details of the sale confidential.
A listing for the 2.785 acre park, which abuts the Historic Bridge Street Pier can be found on the website for Yale Realty & Capital Advisors — yaleadvisors. com. It also details the process.
Letters of intent and supplemental information were required by 5 p.m. March 2 by the partnership and its agent, while March 6-9 is stated as the best and final offer period, when the seller would review offers before choosing a buyer for negotiations.
Mid-March is the next deadline for a purchase and sale agreement, the central document for the sale of a
commercial property.
By mid-April, the completion of due diligence would be due and a closing would be held 30 days from the due diligence deadline.
The Islander reached out to the Jackson Partnership Feb. 27 and again March 1 but, as of Islander press time, there was no response.
The Islander reached out to Pines HOA president Steve Scharnweber by phone Feb. 27, March 2 and March 4 but there was no response.
a website details the Pine Trailer Park offer. Islander Screenshot
By robert anderson Islander reporter
Bradenton Beach may get a boost from a new neighbor.
City attorney Ricinda Perry, at a March 1 city meeting, discussed developments surrounding an offer from developer Shawn Kaleta to finance an upgrade of a city-owned parking lot on Church Avenue near the Bradenton Beach Marina, 402 Church Ave.
When asked if Kaleta’s willingness to remodel the city lot was due to his purchase of the nearby Bradenton Beach Marina and what discussions Perry might have had with the developer, Perry wrote in a March 1 text to The Islander, “(Kaleta) said he has no idea what he wants to do with the marina. Dry storage isn’t super lucrative for him. Commercial wet slips are.”
She continued, “When we walked the area, he said he was cleaning up stuff all over the marina and freshening up landscaping. He asked if (the city) was
planning to do anything with (the Church Avenue parking lot) and I told him CRA has a parking plan from Colliers, but no money to improve it at this time. He said he’d pay for it. That’s all I know at this point.”
Colliers Engineering and Design firm has been tasked to create a dedicated parking plan at 306 Church Ave., an unimproved parking lot.
Perry’s text also said, “Bazzy is staying around to help transition everything.”
The marina has been owned by Alan Bazzy and his family since 1981 — 42 years.
Alan Bazzy’s son, Mike, assumed management of the marina in 1996, and has been instrumental in the Bradenton Beach Area Merchants.
There have been no other public details about the marina sale from the parties — Kaleta or Bazzy — to The Islander, but, based on Perry’s public remarks, the property already has changed hands.
Kaleta told The Islander “no comment” in midJanuary when the sale reportedly transpired.
Bazzy has not returned a Jan. 13 phone call from the Islander.
families, will be on vacation March 10-19.
Warren said mounted patrol units will be at Bradenton Beach’s Coquina Beach noon-6 p.m. April 8-9, which is Easter weekend.
“We want everyone to understand the rules that are in place,” he said.
“Pay attention to the posted warnings and city ordinances that exist. Our deputies will be enforcing the ordinances, the laws that exist on the island, with zero tolerance.”
Warren issued a specifi c warning to young people: “We know that we get a lot of people from out of town. We have seen an increase in juveniles that are coming from other counties that will go to places like Anna Maria and Holmes Beach. We want them to know they can’t come down here and act the fool and expect that there aren’t going to be consequences.”
MCSO will be coordinating law enforcement efforts with Bradenton Beach and Holmes Beach police departments.
Lt. Lenard Diaz of the Bradenton Beach Police Department said March 1 that the BBPD would put extra officers in place this month.
Diaz said he hopes visitors will follow the rules and be safe: “Just come out and have a good time. There is no alcohol on the beach. Enjoy our city and go home safely.”
Holmes Beach also will add patrols — day and night — to address an increase in visitors and vacationers on AMI.
Police Chief Bill Tokajer said March 1 that the visitor counts already were on the rise.
“In the last seven days, we’ve had an average of 31,099 cars per day coming through the city. Last year at this time we were at 26,000,” Tokajer said.
“Our intention is to keep Holmes Beach a familyfriendly beach atmosphere,” Tokajer continued. “We will have a zero-tolerance policy for alcohol on the beach and underage drinking.”
Traffic to, from and on AMI
Warren said parking and traffi c also will be concerns during break.
“We need people to be patient,” he said. “There are going to be backups along the road at times, as people are getting on and off the island. People need to be very patient when it comes to parking. Understand with the limited parking situation there are again … wellposted signs and if you follow that, you don’t have to worry about getting a citation.”
Infrastructure work in Holmes Beach and Bradenton Beach already is impeding traffic and work at the public beaches in Bradenton Beach also is taking away some parking.
“It’s probably not going to be easier this year with all the construction going on down there by Cortez Beach,” Diaz said. “I’m hoping that everyone comes down here and understands that there’s construction going on anywhere, in any state, right now and just to be patient.”
Tokajer, in a separate interview, added, “We would like everyone to be mindful of our parking laws. You must park with all four tires off the road and always parallel park unless it’s a designated parking lot.”
“We still have construction, so people need to be patient.”
The officials encouraged daytrippers to the island to carpool and use public transit — Manatee County Area Transit operates fare-free bus services, including on Manatee Avenue to Manatee Public Beach and on Cortez Road to Coquina Beach, as well as the island trolley between Anna Maria and Bradenton Beach.
To those who drive and park at the beach, officials reminded beachgoers to remove any valuables and lock their vehicles.
The Islander reached out to Manatee County Beach Patrol Chief Joe Westerman by phone March 1 but there was no response as of March 6.
Don’t miss the St. Patrick’s Day Parade. And you might, if you don’t change your clocks. This year’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade will step off at 4 p.m. Sunday, March 12, beginning at Holmes Beach City Hall, 5801 Marina Drive.
Daylight saving time will begin that morning at 2 a.m. with most of the country springing forward an hour.
And when’s the fall back? Sunday, Nov. 5. Though some U.S. territories and states do not observe daylight saving time, about 70 countries observe a time change.
Public safety officials say the time change provides a reminder to change any batteries in smoke and carbon-monoxide detectors.
Last week’s question
By Lisa Neff
About the construction around Gulf and Maria drives in Holmes Beach…
5%. It doesn’t bother me.
24%. It slows me down, but I drive on.
24%. It makes me adjust my schedule.
46%. It keeps me away.
1%. It’s no problem. I don’t drive.
This week’s question
First sign of spring on AMI …
A. Flowering trees.
B. Sunburns.
C. Gridlock.
D. Empty store shelves
E. “No vacancy.”
To answer the poll, go online to islander.org.
The Manatee Board of County Commissioners is putting its weight behind a state bill that would open the door for a parking garage in Holmes Beach.
The board was unanimous Feb. 28 in its support for House Bill 947, legislation that would authorize a parking garage in a county-managed public park, such as the Manatee Public Beach, 4000 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach.
An economic impact statement prepared Feb. 13 by Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau executive director Elliott Falcione estimated such a parking garage would cost $45 million for construction and $400,000 for maintenance in subsequent years.
The bill, proposed by Rep. Will Robinson Jr., R-Bradenton, would override a Holmes Beach ordinance that prohibits multilevel parking facilities and structures over 36 feet tall within city limits by preempting permitting to the county.
A city ordinance, adopted in August, was created to prevent the addition of a parking garage as proposed by Manatee County Commission Chair Kevin Van Ostenbridge to make up for parking lost to the city’s park-by-permit system.
Manatee County was one of the last to close its beaches during the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in summer 2020 and people flocked to the area then to enjoy the last beaches left open to the public.
Some of those beachgoers caused problems on residential streets, blocking access for emergency vehicles and homeowners and leaving litter and human waste, as well as acting disrespectful to island residents.
resulted in congestion, barricaded lots and a maze of detours that local business owners have said frustrates them, their employees and their prospective patrons.
And those frustrations might not end soon. City engineer Sage Kamiya said Feb. 28 delays pushed the final stages of construction into March, despite the original goal to complete most of the work by the end of 2022.
Kamiya said Sarasota-based C-Squared CGC employees assured him the closed area of Gulf Drive between Marina Drive and Holmes Boulevard would be reopened by month’s end.
Additional work — the installation of street lighting, landscaping and pedestrian crossing signals — will become the focus after that point.
At least one business, Island Gallery West, an artist co-op at 5368 Gulf Drive, will move before construction ends.
Karen Beach, IGW artist and publicity chair, told The Islander March 3 that the gallery was set to move to downtown Bradenton beginning March 11.
She said IGW wanted to fi nd a more “livable” space with room for demonstrations and classes, and was “allured” by Bradenton’s art scene.
Regardless, Beach said many IGW members will miss the location.
A story in the March 1 issue of The Islander incorrectly stated that a Feb. 17 incident outside CrossPointe Fellowship, 8605 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, occurred at night. The incident, which involved a group of young people acting belligerent, occurred in the late afternoon, according to the Rev. Ed Moss, church pastor.
Moss also told The Islander Feb. 28 the incident was not an anomaly but one of several that led to the church limiting parking after experimenting with various levels of open parking. “This has been a two-year experiment that has not gone well,” Moss said. “Our neighbors have paid the price.”
Manatee County Sheriff’s Lt. Louis Licata told The Islander Feb. 28 that the MCSO was not involved in suggesting the church close parking through spring break due to the incident. Licata said the church made its decision without influence from the MCSO.
The city then restricted public parking 9 a.m.-5 p.m. for 645 parking spaces along residential roadways and began selling $15 decals to residents and property owners to allow them to park in those spots.
City officials stand by the parking restrictions, which they say has protected residential quality of life by reducing roadside parking and subsequently traffic and litter in residential areas.
Van Ostenbridge and other county commissioners argue such a system is unfair to off-island residents when visiting the beaches, and they have pushed the city to return parking to pre-pandemic levels by threatening to withhold county funds from the city, including resort tax funding for beach renourishment.
County commissioners voted in June 2021 to deny a $282,910 funding request for improvements to a seawall along Marina Drive, where pedestrians and boaters use the adjoining sidewalk.
The board members once again spoke against the city’s park-by-permit system at the Feb. 28 meeting.
Van Ostenbridge called the city’s parking measures “draconian” and expressed support for a parking garage. He said a structure built on the footprint of the beach’s existing parking lot could add about 1,500 parking spaces.
He said the county could use the same justifications as the city to close roads, such as Manatee Avenue or Lakewood Ranch Boulevard, but was responsible for trying to “accommodate the will of the people.”
Van Ostenbridge said that “1,100 people a day are moving to this state and the reason they’re coming here is because they want access to the beach. You cannot put the cat back in the bag.”
Commissioner James Satcher said, “It’s a sad situ-
“There are some 33-year members of this gallery who are very sad to say goodbye to this building,” she said.
She declined to comment on the road construction but said it had impacted business.
“It’s obvious that the traffic congestion keeps people from coming into our driveway and into our parking lot,” Beach said. “It’s not a walkable area and it hasn’t been since last September, so foot traffic has been reduced for sure.”
Other businesses, such as Minnie’s, are depending on spring break to keep them afloat.
“We rely on March and April to get us through the year,” Smart said. “Between Thanksgiving and Christmas is just a dead zone and the money we make in season is what holds us through that. But we’re not making that this year.”
Smart said operating costs skyrocketed over the past year.
On top of that, she said, construction and congestion are “killing” the cafe. She said revenue was down “at least a third” from the same time last year.
“People are afraid to come out and go anywhere because they can’t get through. They get stuck in traffic,” Smart said. “And a lot of these places depend on walk-in traffic. … But nobody wants to walk around down there because you’re putting your life in your hands.”
Brian Mathae, co-owner of Hurricane Hanks, Hurricane Liquors and Three Fifty Three Pour House, told The Islander March 3 that business was “significantly down” over the same time last year.
He echoed Smart’s message when discussing the importance of a successful spring break: “We need the good times to get through the bad. If we don’t make money in the high season, we can’t survive.”
Mathae said it had become “challenging” to keep up with the cost of operating an island business, especially with the road construction.
“It’s just created such a frustration. People are done,” he said.
Mathae said another impact of the construction was the challenge it posed to employees.
“It’s always been hard to recruit people to work here on the island and it’s becoming near impossible
ation that someone would take advantage of COVID and use that to make a land grab and to say, ‘It’s my island. We’ve got high-class people here and we don’t want you. Go home,’” Satcher said.
“We can’t allow that kind of exclusionary policy to take place,” Commissioner Amanda Ballard said. “And we can’t allow our public beach to, in effect, become private.”
Commissioner George Kruse said Robinson’s bill did not require the county to build a parking garage but rather provided an option — which he encouraged the county to pursue.
“I’m in favor of this bill and I’m in favor of putting a parking garage up,” Kruse said. “I think we owe it to Rep. Robinson to give him the assurance that his efforts are not going to go underutilized by this board.”
Mayor Judy Titsworth told The Islander March 2 that she was not surprised by the county commissioners’ comments.
“They’re just continuing the narrative to try to make it us against them, that’s all it is,” Titsworth said. “We’re very welcoming to everybody out here.”
Titsworth said the problem with parking in the city was not the removal of spaces but an ever-increasing demand that the island infrastructure might never meet.
“People can’t find a parking space because 10,000 people got here before them on any given day,” Titsworth said. “A parking garage is not a fix because it’s just going to fill up. Then what will they do with the next 1,000 people?”
She said she would continue coordinating with state legislators to try to stop Robinson’s bill from becoming law.
The bill was up for scrutiny in the Local Administration, Federal Affairs and Special Districts subcommittee as of March 4.
when you look at the combination of traffic and how busy it is,” Mathae said. “Some people just don’t want to work on this island anymore. And they certainly can’t afford to live here.”
On the other end of the spectrum, Irene’s Resort Wear owner Nanette Almeter told The Islander March 2 that spring break is typically a down period for her business in the Island Shopping Center.
“Maybe for the surf shops and that type of thing it might make a big difference. For us, it’s more the opposite because we have a more mature clientele,” Almeter said.
Speaking of traffic, Almeter called the city center project a “catastrophe” and criticized the lack of consistent progress.
“What mayhem it’s been. And it will not be over until season is over, I’m sure,” Almeter said.
She expressed thanks to her loyal customers, who were keeping the business going.
“We’ve been pretty slammed,” Almeter said. “I’ve been so grateful.”
ANNA MARIA CITY
March 9, 2 p.m., commission.
By Lisa NeffAnna Maria City Hall, 10005 Gulf Drive, 941-708-6130, cityofannamaria.com.
BRADENTON BEACH
March 15, 10 a.m., department heads.
March 15, 1 p.m., ScenicWAVES.
Bradenton Beach City Hall, 107 Gulf Drive N., 941-778-1005, cityofbradentonbeach.com.
HOLMES BEACH
March 8, 10 a.m., clean water.
March 14, 2 p.m., commission.
Holmes Beach City Hall, 5801 Marina Drive, 941-708-5800, holmesbeachfl.org.
ALSO OF INTEREST
March 13, 2 p.m., Island Transportation Planning Organization, Holmes Beach City Hall.
Spring break might be bigger than anticipated.
I’ve been wondering who might have fallen asleep at the switch that sets up the spring break calendar.
I was taken aback when a friend mentioned that more families, more teens and more college students will be looking for fun and sun on the beaches than ever before thanks to simultaneous spring break schedules for school districts in Manatee, Sarasota, Hillsborough and Pinellas counties.
And that goes for colleges, too. All area colleges with the only exception being State College of Florida in Manatee County will be on break with the K-12 schools in the four counties.
Wow. That’s a lot of kids, people and cars potentially heading to the beach, when for many years the schools staggered their spring break schedules.
Not this year.
This is your alert: Islanders should head to the grocery store now to stock up on necessities and prepare to hunker down!
Meanwhile, what happened to spring?
The days feels like summer — hot.
And winter temps were more like a long run of spring — cool nights and days in the 70s. Some days there was even a light breeze to make it feel as if spring had sprung.
I even saw photos of azaleas blooming on Facebook and my own gardenia bush, which should bloom in May, is breaking out in buds.
Whatever it is, it’s welcome.
What is not appreciated is red tide. A strong northwest wind was pushing red tide to shore, where crashing waves and salt spray from the surf carried the toxins that cause that tickle in the throat and an irritating cough across the island.
And I have joined the many voices this week of those who are disgruntled with the seemingly invisible progress of the Holmes Beach city center road improvements.
Yes, it will be appreciated when its done but for now the delays are crippling peak season for many businesses and their employees — and it’s spreading out from the city center.
I’m pushing for the city and contractor to clean up the roadway now and barricade only what’s absolutely necessary. Night work is apparently not an option because even the contractor can’t get employees to drive here to work.
We all need to put on our spring best and welcome the tourists that make our cash registers sing.
— Bonner Joy, news@islander.org
I once again welcome each of you on a tour. I understand decisions will continue to be made by your board, many of which will have a profound effect on the quality of life for our citizens, guests and business owners.
I hope you will be able to gain valuable knowledge as to why Holmes Beach is not only one of the most special places on Earth to live but also an extremely popular tourist destination in which people come from all over the world each year to visit.
▼ Publisher, Co-editor Bonner Joy, news@islander.org
▼ Editorial editor Lisa Neff, lisa@islander.org
robert anderson, robert@islander.org
Joe Bird, editorial cartoonist
Kevin cassidy, kevin@islander.org
Jack elka, jack@jackelka.com
Brook Morrison, brook@islander.org
ryan Paice, ryan@islander.org
▼ Contributors
Karen riley-Love
Jacob Merrifield
Samara Paice
capt. Danny Stasny, fish@islander.org
Nicole Quigley
▼ Advertising Director
Toni Lyon, toni@islander.org
▼ Webmaster Wayne ansell
▼ Office Manager, Lisa Williams info@, accounting@, classifieds@, subscriptions@islander.org
▼ Distribution
Urbane Bouchet
ross roberts
Judy Loden Wasco
(All others: news@islander.org)
For the past three years, Holmes Beach citizens have defended against false narratives by county leaders. These stem from city leaders finally putting a limit on the number of secondary beach parking that could safely be accommodated in neighborhoods.
I hope that you accept my offer for a visit as this will not only provide you with insights in making sound decisions but also will allow you to see that, as citizens of Manatee, we are part of the solution.
The lack of available parking for county residents is not a result of parking limitations at the beaches. It is a result of growth in our county that is evidenced by the hours spent sitting in traffic trying to get to and from work on weekdays and to get to and from the beach on weekends and holidays.
Facts:
The city follows required parking for beach renourishment and the interlocal agreement with the county. In fact, the city has more than double the county-required secondary beach parking in neighborhoods and 10 times the required secondary beach parking for state beach renourishment.
Holmes Beach accommodates on any given day 12,267 people in cars who visit our beaches and beach
accommodations.
Holmes Beach has contributed well over $30 million in tourist development tax revenue to the county since its inception.
Holmes Beach has contributed approximately $40 million in property tax revenue in the past 10 years.
I find real value in the knowledge I receive from the DOT Barrier Island Traffic Study, the MPO water taxi feasibility study and the county-funded Urban Land Institute study.
I will not assume to know better than the professionals.
I also understand the value of public participation in site plan approvals for zoning and changes of use.
State Rep. Will Robinson Jr.’s bill is a grave overstep as it is premature.
I continue to urge you to schedule a pre-site plan meeting and apply for this use in this zoning district.
I cannot guarantee that the commission will rule in favor of this garage but I can guarantee you a fair process in which you will be heard, given a chance to present your site plan and traffic studies and receive valuable input from a noticed public hearing.
Holmes Beach Mayor Judy Titsworth
Editor’s note: This letter was edited for length.
Florida Senate : Jim Boyd, 941-742-6445, boyd.jim.web@flsenate.gov, flsenate.gov.
Florida House : State Rep. William Cloud “Will” Robinson Jr., District 71, 941-708-4968, will.robinson@myfloridahouse.gov, myfloridahouse.gov.
“Lizzie Lyle goes wading,” reads the caption in the archives. “That white sand beach in the background suggests that it was during an excursion to anna Maria Island.” The photo is from 1895-1905.
You can peruse The Islander newspaper archive, dating back to its launch in November 1992, at ufdc.ufl.edu.
We mail The Islander weekly for a nominal $54 per year. We also offer online e-edition subscriptions — a page-by-page view of the weekly news for only $36 per year, but you must sign up online. It’s the best way to stay in touch with what’s happening on Anna Maria Island.
We bring you all the news about three city governments, community happenings, people features and special events … even real estate transactions … everything you need if your “heart is on Anna Maria Island.”
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Credit
The caption in the archives reads, “Young people prepare to launch a small boat from the picnic grounds at coquina Beach” in Bradenton Beach. The photo is dated april 1973. Islander Photos: courtesy Manatee county Public Library archives
From the March 5, 2003, issue
• Manatee County’s administrator told Anna Maria Mayor SueLynn that budget cuts proposed by Gov. Jeb Bush included a $15 million reduction in beach restoration grants, which could impact AMI renourishment. The state’s portion for a 2002 renourishment project was $3.5 million.
• An Anna Maria Island woman who signed up for a home water-cleaning system for $5,495 from Florida Water & Utilities Inc. got the contract voided after she complained to the Florida Consumer Services Department. After the test, the woman signed what she thought was a notice of the test but was instead a contract.
From the March 6, 2013, issue
• Among documents revealed by disclosure in a case file for the trial of William Cumber, charged with the murder of Holmes Beach resident Sabine Musil-Buehler, was a list of items belonging to Musil-Buehler found in 2009 by the Rev. Ed Moss of CrossPointe Fellowship on the beachfront at the home on Willow Avenue that Moss and siblings had inherited.
• A 4-1 vote moved Holmes Beach closer to allowing laying hens. Holmes Beach commissioners were poised to join the movement to allow people to raise chickens for eggs.
• Going into a March 26 continued hearing on a site plan for Tidemark Lodge — now Waterline Resort — neighbor Lance Spotts, who had opposed the project since 2001, was pulling a punch. Spotts’ attorney wrote demanding the city revoke the project and require the property owner comply with city code.
— Lisa Neff
The cost of operating a vacation rental property in the West Manatee Fire Rescue District is rising.
WMFR commissioners unanimously voted Feb. 21 to post advertisements for a new fire inspector and administrative assistant to lead the district’s new shortterm rental inspection program.
Fire marshal Rodney Kwiatkowski told The Islander March 3 that the jobs were posted and the district hopes to fill the positions over the summer.
The short-term rental program will begin Oct. 1, at the start of fiscal 2023-24, and involve inspecting all vacation rentals in the district for fire safety.
The program will be funded by a projected $1 million increase in revenue by assessing rental properties as commercial instead of residential.
The district’s current fire assessment rates include a $211.48 residential base rate and a $0.1247 additional charge for square footage of more than 1,000, and a $525.59 commercial base rate with a $0.2276 additional charge per square foot more than 1,000.
The owner of a 2,000-square-foot vacation rental property would pay $336.18 under the residential rate and $753.19 under the commercial rate.
Kwiatkowski said any property with a transient public lodging establishment license from the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation would be assessed the district’s commercial rate after Oct. 1.
“We’re picking up about 3,500 new inspections, so we need the resources and the manpower to do that,” Kwiatkowski said. “We think that the way to get there is to treat vacation rentals for what they are … these
are commercial properties.”
He said that despite the planned cost increase, he had received almost entirely positive feedback from local stakeholders regarding the rental inspection program.
“Somebody said, ‘What’s taken you all so long?’” Kwiatkowski said.
He added that vacation rentals in the district account for around 70% of reported structure fires over the past few years and 100% of pool drownings in the past year.
There was no public comment.
The WMFR commission will meet next at 6 p.m. Tuesday, March 21, at the district administrative headquarters, 701 63rd St. W., Bradenton.
Directions to attend the meeting via Zoom can be found at wmfr.org.
A recent code violation by former Holmes Beach Commissioner Jayne Christenson was brought into compliance.
But that doesn’t mean the matter is resolved.
as a unit or bedroom within the dwelling — and the posting violated that part of the city code.
in their email.
christenson
Code compliance supervisor JT Thomas told The Islander March 2 the vacation rental violation still would be brought to the city’s special magistrate as a repeat violation.
Harmari, a program the city uses to monitor short-term rental postings, recently detected a listing for Christenson’s property — owned with her mother, Sally Owen — at 132 49th St., as a one-bedroom unit available for rent.
Christenson is limited to renting the home 30 days a year due to its homestead exemption.
However, city code requires vacation units be advertised and offered for rent in their entirety — not
The city cited Christenson with the same violation in 2021, when she claimed she made a “verbiage” error in an online ad, listing the property as a one-bedroom vacation unit.
Christenson and her husband, Joseph, emailed Thomas Feb. 11 to notify the city that the recent violation had been brought into compliance.
“What we found was that although we put the information correctly into the VRBO app with the intent to advertise the entire home, but limit the occupancy to 2 people, the actual advertisement seen by the public was different from what we could see in the owner portion of the app,” they wrote. “The app was automatically calculating and listing only 1 bedroom because we only described one of the bedrooms in the dropdown menu to limit the occupancy to 2 people.”
“We have now resolved the problem,” they added
Nevertheless, Thomas said the matter would be brought before a magistrate so a finding of fact regarding the property’s use could be established.
Attorney Sean Flynn of the Bradenton-based Flynn Law emailed Thomas Feb. 22 on behalf of the Christensons to request all discovery — evidence related to the case — be sent to his firm.
City attorney Erica Augello wrote in a Feb. 22 email responding to Flynn that there is no formal discovery process since it is a magistrate proceeding.
Augello wrote that they could submit a public record request for any evidence related to the case.
“The city will, as a courtesy, provide you with the PowerPoint presentation it will be submitting into the record in advance of the hearing,” Augello wrote. “I will make sure that as soon as it is compiled, a copy is sent to you. This usually occurs a few days in advance of the hearing.”
The case will go before the magistrate at 10 a.m. Tuesday, March 28, at city hall, 5801 Marina Drive.
BY PATRICK BARLOW DIRECTEDGet ready for non-stop laughs in this zany adaptation of Alfred Hitchcock’s classic thriller. Four actors play more than 150 characters as our hero and heroine race across England and Scotland to stop an international gang of dangerous spies.
SHOWTIMES:
Attention Parrotheads: Margaritas may be served at an outdoor kiosk on the city pier in Bradenton Beach.
Bradenton Beach commissioners and the mayor voted March 2 to approve changes to the Anna Maria Oyster Bar agreement allowing for an expansion of outdoor service at the Historic Bridge Street Pier.
The proposed changes, to be put up for final approval at a March 16 commission meeting, would allow a food and beverage kiosk outside the restaurant’s existing footprint on the pier, 200 Bridge St., among other changes.
AMOB also is seeking outside “rail seating” along the pier boardwalk, extending from the front entrance to the back patio. Rail seating and canopies for shade are proposed to accommodate customers.
John Horne, restaurant owner, presented AMOB’s 13-page expansion strategy Jan. 11 to the city CRA, which sent the proposal to the city commission. The CRA includes the mayor, commissioners and two appointed members, David Bell and Ed Chiles.
Horne appeared before commissioners March 2.
“What we’re trying to do is keep people from crowding around the bar or in front of the host podium,” he said. “So we’re going to offer drinks outside in that kiosk, what was Tide and Moon and A Room With A Hue. So, we will have a staff person out there who can make a margarita, give it to them and while they are waiting half an hour for a table they can walk around the pier.”
“We just have to change the footprint to include the kiosk, the public bathrooms and then down the pier so they can walk while they are waiting on their table,”
Materials are piled up and at least one Willis Smith construction worker is on the job March 1 in the main T-end building on the anna Maria city Pier, where the Mote Marine Laboratory educational outreach center buildout is underway. Mayor Dan Murphy said feb. 23 that he wants a Mote update at an upcoming meeting but Murphy wrote in a March 4 email to The Islander that “the update meeting has not been scheduled yet, and I have no construction updates at this point.” according to Mote’s lease terms with the city, it has until friday, March 10, to apply for a certificate of occupancy, which triggers a city inspection for completion of the facility. and, if Mote meets that deadline, the outreach center needs to be operational by april 7. Mote vice president for communications and strategic initiatives Kevin cooper, who has said much of the work was being completed off-site, did not respond to a March 2 phone call from The Islander.
Is your business ready for the high season on AMI? Improve your odds of success with The Islander’s readers — residents, seasonal visitors and vacationers — looking to shop and dine, as well as indoor and outdoor fun. For advertising info, call or text 941-778-7978.
John horne, owner of the anna Maria oyster Bar on the Pier, shows proposed changes to the restaurant’s footprint at the historic Bridge Street Pier to the mayor and commissioners at a March 2 city meeting. Islander Photo: robert anderson
Horne continued.
City attorney Ricinda Perry said an expansion should trigger an increase in the lease amount for AMOB.
“There’s certainly value in increasing a thousand square feet of outdoor seating and you’re asking to change the use of the common area for an exclusive license for alcohol all the way out to the end of the city pier,” Perry said.
The restaurant’s current footprint for alcohol consumption includes the dining room and a covered outdoor dining area. The remainder of the pier is designated a no-alcohol zone.
AMOB pays $42,000 a month plus a 3% increase
every year for its 2,100-square-foot space.
With the changes requested by Horne, the restaurant would gain 1,400 square feet, as well as the exclusive right to sell alcohol on the pier.
Horne said even without a rent increase, the change in footprint would lead to increased sales, which would lead to an increase in revenue for the city due to a override fee built into the concession agreement.
An override is a percentage paid to the landlord resulting from sales by the tenant. In the agreement, the override is 2% of the tenant’s gross revenue.
“I already have the kiosks, that’s in my lease premises,” Horne said. “I’m just changing my use of them, which will give you guys more money because you are not getting a percentage override there now. You will if I start selling food and drink out of there. It’s only out of the restaurant now.”
There were negotiations toward the end of the meeting, as commissioners asked for particulars and improvements from Horne.
Mayor John Chappie asked for a redesign and replacement of the restaurant’s sign on Bridge Street and Horne agreed — if the commission agrees to two five-year renewal options for the AMOB lease.
The dealing continued, with Commissioner Jake Spooner asking AMOB to better conceal the bait area.
Commissioner Jan Vosburgh then motioned to approve an amendment to the concession agreement to include the discussion points from the meeting. The motion was seconded by Ralph Cole and passed unanimously.
A final decision is expected at the next commission meeting at noon Thursday, March 16, at city hall, 107 Gulf Drive N.
compiled by Lisa Neff, calendar@islander.org.
Wednesday, March 8
10 a.m. — Creative Aging: Watercolor painting, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341.
6:30 p.m. — Island Time Book Club, Sarah J. Maas’ “A Court of Thorns and Roses,” Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341.
Wednesday, March 15
10 a.m. — Creative Aging: Watercolor painting, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341.
Through March 26, Island Players present “The 39 Steps,” 10009 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria. Fee applies. Information: 941-7785755.
Throughout March, Artists’ Guild of Anna Maria Island’s exhibit featuring watercolors by Sharon Tarras, Guild Gallery, 5414 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6694.
Through March 10, Island Gallery West’s exhibit featuring work by Terri Westbrook, 5368 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6648.
Second Fridays through April, 5:30-7:30 p.m., Art Walk and Shop Stroll, Gulf and Marina drives, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6694.
Tuesdays through May 9, 8:30 a.m.-2 p.m., Anna Maria Farmers Market, City Pier Park, North Bay Boulevard and Pine Avenue, Anna Maria. Information: 941-708-6130.
Friday, March 10
7:15 p.m. — Florida Maritime Museum screens “Finding Nemo,” 4415 119th St. W., Cortez. Information: 941-708-6120.
“Caught in the Storm: 100 Years of Florida Hurricanes” exhibit, Florida Maritime Museum, 4415 119th St. W., Cortez. Information: floridamaritimemuseum.org.
Through March 26, “True Nature: Rodin and the Age of Impressionism” exhibit Museum of Fine Arts, 255 Beach Drive NE, St. Petersburg. Fee applies. Information: 941-896-2667.
Through May 28, “Gods and Lovers: Painting and Sculpture from India,” the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, 5401 Bay Shore Road, Sarasota. Fee applies. Information: 941-360-7390, ringling.org.
First Fridays, 6-9:30 p.m., Village of the Arts First Fridays Artwalk, 12th Street West and 12th Avenue West, Bradenton. Information: villageofthearts.com.
Saturdays through May, 9 a.m.-2 p.m., Bradenton Public Market, Old Main Street, Bradenton. Information: 941-932-9439.
Second and fourth Saturdays, 2-4 p.m., Music on the Porch jam session, presented by the Florida Maritime Museum and Cortez Cultural Center, outdoors, 4415 119th St. W., Cortez. Information: floridamaritimemuseum.org, fmminfo@manateeclerk.com.
SAVE THE DATE
March 17, Main Street Live St. Patrick’s Day celebration, Bradenton.
March 18-19, Anna Maria Island Art League’s Springfest, Holmes Beach.
March 18, Center of Anna Maria Island’s “Portugal Uncorked” wine-tasting, Anna Maria.
March 21, Bradenton Gulf Islands Concert Series at the Center of Anna Maria Island presents The Orchestra, Anna Maria.
April 22, Main Street Live’s Spring Fling, Bradenton.
Friday, March 10
6-8 p.m. — Center of Anna Maria Island Bingo Bonanza, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria. Fee applies. Information: 941-7781908.
Sunday, March 12
4 p.m. — St. Patrick’s Day Parade, along Marina and Palm drives in Holmes Beach, along Gulf Drive, Pine Avenue, Tarpon and Magnolia Avenue in Anna Maria. Information: 941-778-1908.
Monday, March 13
10 a.m. — Alligator Encounter, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341.
Tuesday, March 14
10 a.m. — STEM Show for Kids, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341.
First Wednesdays, “SOAR in 4” family night, the Bishop
Anna Maria Island will celebrate a different island March 12.
The annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade, an AMI tradition celebrating all things Irish, will step off at 4 p.m. Sunday, March 12, beginning at Holmes Beach City Hall, 5801 Marina Drive.
Parade entries will line up on Flotilla Drive, facing south.
They will travel on 58th Street to Marina Drive, Palm Drive and Gulf Drive in Holmes Beach.
The route continues north on Gulf Drive in Anna Maria, east on Pine Avenue to Tarpon Street and then Magnolia Avenue, ending at the Center of Anna Maria Island.
The cost to enter the parade is $150 for business organizations, $50 for a business vehicle and $10 for a golf cart or personal vehicle.
There is no fee for nonprofits.
For more information, call the center at 941-7781908.
941-746-4131, bishopscience.org.
Through March 18, “Towers of Tomorrow with LEGO Bricks,” the Bishop Museum, 201 10th St. W., Bradenton. Fee applies. Information: 941-746-4131, bishopscience.org.
Through May 21, Mote Marine Aquarium’s “Voyage to the Deep” exhibit, 1600 Ken Thompson Parkway, Sarasota. Fee applies. Information: 941-388-4441.
SAVE THE DATE
March 18, Desoto National Memorial’s “Five Centuries of Florida History,” Bradenton.
April 15, Desoto National Memorial’s “Landing,” Bradenton.
April 29, De Soto Grand Parade, Bradenton.
Thursday, March 9
3-7 p.m. — Friends of the Island Library presale jewelry sale, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341.
Friday, March 10 11 a.m.-4 p.m. — Friends of the Island Library jewelry sale, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341.
Saturday, March 11 11 a.m.-4 p.m. — Friends of the Island Library jewelry sale, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341. 9-11 a.m. — Center of Anna Maria Island beach cleanup, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria. Information: 941-778-1908.
Tuesday, March 14
9 a.m.-2 p.m. — Anna Maria Island Historical Society Heritage Day, 402 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Information: 941-778-0492.
Most Wednesdays, 1 p.m., mahjong club beginners, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Info: 941-778-6341.
Second Wednesdays, noon, Off Stage Ladies meeting and luncheon, various locations. Fee applies. Info:” 941-932-2798.
Thursdays, 6 p.m., Anne Silver Community Center bingo games, 103 23rd St. N., Bradenton Beach. Fee applies. Information: 413-441-6823.
Most Fridays, 11:30 a.m., mahjong club experienced players, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Info: 941-7786341.
Fridays, noon, bridge, Roser Memorial Community Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Information: 314-324-5921.
Saturdays, 8:30 a.m., Kiwanis Club of Anna Maria Island meeting, Bradenton Beach City Hall, 107 Gulf Drive N., Bradenton Beach. Information: 941-778-1383.
Tuesdays, noon, duplicate bridge, Episcopal Church of the Annunciation, 4408 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. Info: 703-5827755.
Second Fridays, 1 p.m., Parkinson’s Combined Support Group, Paradise Center, 546 Bay Isles Road, Longboat Key. Information: 941-383-6493.
Mondays, 1 p.m., Thinking Out Loud discussions, the Paradise Center, 546 Bay Isles Road, Longboat Key. Info: 941-383-6493.
Tuesdays, 11:30 a.m., Rotary Club of Anna Maria Island lunch meeting, Slicker’s Eatery, 12012 Cortez Road W., Cortez. Information: 512-944-4177, amirotary.org.
Second Tuesdays, 4 p.m., Cortez Village Historical Society meetings, Cortez Cultural Center, 11655 Cortez Road W., Cortez. Information: 941-840-0590, cortezvillagehistoricalsociety.org.
SAVE THE DATE
March 17, Anna Maria Island Garden Club flower show, Anna Maria.
March 20, Anna Maria Island and West Manatee Democratic Club meeting, Holmes Beach.
March 25, Clint Hurdle’s Hot Stove Dinner to benefit PraderWilli Syndrome Association, Holmes Beach.
April 1, Center of Anna Maria Island beach cleanup, Anna Maria.
April 16, Cortez Village Historical Society Village Picnic, Cortez.
April 17, Anna Maria Island and West Manatee Democratic Club meeting, Holmes Beach.
April 21, AMI lunch and meeting, Anna Maria.
AMI Dragon Boat Team-Paddlers from Paradise practices and meetups, various times and locations. Information: 941-462-2626, mrbradway@gmail.com.
Lesson in marketing ginger huhn of the anna Maria Island garden club, first-place poster artist Siena Suzor, second-place artist Karolina Veselik, thirdplace winner alex Serra and charlotte Noyes of the club gather to announce poster winners for the club’s annual flower show to be held 1-2:30 p.m. friday, March 17, at roser Memorial community church, 512 Pine ave., anna Maria.
The anna Maria Island garden club has made a tradition of holding a poster art competition among fifth-graders at anna Maria elementary in holmes Beach. This year’s show theme will be “Down on the farm,” with judges deciding such categories as “old MacDonald had a farm,” “put your boots on, “mending fences,” “green pastures,” “harvest time,” “barn raisin’” and horticulture. for more information, call charlotte Noyes at 781-983-1937. Islander courtesy Photo
Through March 28 — Pittsburgh Pirates spring training games, various times, various dates, LECOM Park, 1611 Ninth St. W., Bradenton. Fee applies. Information: pirates/com/springtraining.
Saturdays, 9 a.m., Robinson Runners run, walk stroll, Robinson Preserve NEST, 10299 Ninth Ave. NW., Bradenton. Information: 941-742-5923, crystal.scherer@mymanatee.org, mymanatee.org.
Saturdays, 9 a.m., Mornings at the NEST, Robinson Preserve, 10299 Ninth Ave. NW., Bradenton. Information: 941-742-5923, mymanatee.org.
SAVE THE DATE
April 7, Bradenton Marauders home opener, Bradenton.
KEEP
March 8, International Women’s Day. March 12, daylight saving time. March 13-17, Manatee County School District’s spring break.
The Anna Maria Island Privateers will celebrate St. Patrick’s Day and raise funds to repair their boat-float with a March 15 party.
The “Raise the Skullywag” event will be at the Drift In, 120 Bridge St., Bradenton Beach, and feature a “St. Paddy’s Day Lotto Board” with opportunities to win cash.
The drawing will be at 9 p.m. Wednesday, March 15 at the bar.
Tickets can be purchased at the bar or from a Privateer and the winner need not be present to collect.
For more information about the event, go to amiprivateers.org.
The Anna Maria Island Historical Society invites people to its museum and museum grounds 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Tuesday, March 14, for Heritage Day.
A news release said a highlight would be the Anna Maria Island Privateers’ capture of Anna Maria Mayor Dan Murphy at his city hall office. The Privateers, via a golf cart, will bring their captive to the “old Anna Maria City Jail” at the AMIHS property at about noon for a ransom.
The event also will feature gift basket prizes, arts and crafts stations, music by Howie Banfield, strawberry shortcake sales and Poppo’s Taqueria lunch items.
For more, call AMIHS at 941-778-0492.
Cortez museum screens flick
“When life gets you down, you know what you gotta do?”
And people can find out Friday, March 10, when the Florida Maritime Museum in Cortez hosts an outdoor movie night featuring “Finding Nemo,” the 2003 animated film about a clown fish’s adventure to find his son and the characters — including Dory — encountered along the way.
The show will begin at 7:15 p.m. on the museum grounds, 4415 119th St. W., Cortez.
Event organizers include people to bring blankets and bug spray.
The Islander is an event sponsor.
For more information, call the museum at 941708-6120.
‘The 39 Steps’ to open
The Island Players will bring Patrick Barlow’s “The 39 Steps” to the Anna Maria theater March 9-26.
The cast includes Colin Brady, Sylvia Marnie, Mark Shoemaker and Joseph Smith.
Performances will be Tuesday-Saturday at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday at 2 p.m.
Box office hours are 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Mondays-Saturdays, as well as an hour before performances. Tickets at the box office cost $25. Online, they cost $27.
The theater is at 10009 Gulf Drive.
For more information about the Island Players, call the box office at 941-778-5755.
Funk rockers play center stage
Galleries to host receptions
A Second Friday Art Walk set for March 10 will mark the end of an era in Holmes Beach.
aBoVe: grand funk railroad singer Max carl points to the audience feb. 25 during an outdoor concert at the center of anna Maria Island, 407 Magnolia ave., anna Maria. The band was the third headliner in the 2022-23 Bradenton gulf Island Series. The orchestra will headline March 21.
rIghT: grand funk railroad guitarist Bruce Kulick focuses on his fretboard. Islander Photos: courtesy center of anna Maria Island
Center puts out bingo call
Last call for bingo.
Refreshments will be available for donations. Bingo cards will cost $1.
Prizes will include gift cards to local restaurants. The center is at 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria. For more, call the center at 941-778-1908.
… and plans for beach cleanup
The Center of Anna Maria Island will coordinate a beach cleanup Saturday, March 11. Additional work dates will be Saturdays, April 1 and May 6.
Tiki and Kitty are ready to hit the road and do some spring shopping at their favorite thrifts and boutiques.
Blue Flamingo is home to hip and trendy upcycled and repurposed goods, furniture and decor, garden features, candles, jewelry and work by local artisans. They also offer Dixie Belle paints.
Stop by at our other locations:
Scavengers Marketplace SRQ
1175 N Washington Blvd
Scavengers Palmetto
2100 US Hwy 301
don’t want to miss this vast collection of vendors. Blessed and Distressed is a tastefully designed store — so inviting, you’ll want to pull up a chair — with collectibles and work by local artists. The store is at Palma Sola Square, around the corner from WinnDixie. It offers 30-plus vintage, upcycled, shabby chic and artsy vendors. You won’t be disappointed.
Scavengers Marketplace invites you to visit its many vendors at the Palmetto store, 2100 U.S. 301, where a portion of your purchase benefits Moonracer No Kill Pet Rescue — our favorite pet rescue group. Founder Lisa Williams leads the rescue efforts and also works at The Islander as office manager.
FYI: Scavengers also carries Fusion Paints.
Great work from Local Artisans Upcycled, Repurposed, Vintage Dixie Belle Paint, Fun Gifts & More! theblueflamingo.biz
IGW, after three decades, will close to the public the next day to prepare for a move off the island to downtown Bradenton — the address, as of Islander press time, was not disclosed.
IGW’s departure will leave one art gallery remaining on AMI, the Artists’ Guild Gallery, 5414 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, in the Island Shopping Center.
Both locations will participate in the walk.
IGW’s reception, 5:30-7:30 p.m., will feature work by painter Terri Westbrook. The evening will include drinks, appetizers, live music and a raffle of a Westbrook pastel painting.
The guild’s reception, 5-7:30 p.m., will feature work by watercolorist Sharon Tarras.
As of Islander press time, no other businesses had announced art walk plans.
For more, call IGW at 941-778-6648 and the Guild Gallery at 941-778-6694.
Jewelry sale at library
The Friends of the Island Library this week will hold a three-day jewelry sale to raise money for library programs and projects.
Sale details are:
• Thursday, March 9, 3-7 p.m., presale for members of the Friends of the Island Library;
• Friday, 11 a.m.-4 p.m., general sale;
• Saturday, 11 a.m.-4 p.m., general sale.
An announcement said shoppers would find “hundreds of items, most priced under $5.”
The library is at 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach.
For more, call the library at 941-778-6341.
Wed-Sat 30+ Local Vendors &
Artists
10-5 Palma
10 to 5 Tues-Sat | 941.227.1936 4229 26th St. W. | Bradenton
Three quarters down. Fourth to go.
“The first half of the second semester has gotten off to a great start,” Anna Maria Elementary principal Mike Masiello told The Islander March 2.
Students, he said, have learned about animal classification and adaptations in science, while studying sea stars and focusing on bilateral and radial symmetry and angles in math.
“Students participated in creating a large papier-
mache sculpture of a starfi sh identifying all of the body parts,” Masiello added.
Also, said Masiello, “As we move through the second half of this semester, students will learn the importance of how marine animals move through the water using flippers with a focus on adaptations and force and motion in science standards.”
AME’s fourth quarter will begin when students return to classes after spring break.
The Manatee County School District’s spring break will run March 13-17 but students also have Friday, March 10, off for a staff records day, adding the long weekend to the break.
AME students in the fourth quarter will participate in an estuary study on school grounds in March and finish out the year with state assessments in May.
Lights, camera, action!
The Anna Maria Elementary PTO’s spring gala, “Vintage Hollywood, The Golden Age,” will be 6-10 p.m., Saturday, May 13, in the clubhouse at IMG Academy Golf Club, 4350 El Conquistador Pkwy., Bradenton.
The gala is the largest annual fundraiser to benefit the AME Parent-Teacher Organization, with tickets being sold through the PTO website, amepto.org.
The gala evening will include food and drinks, dancing and musical entertainment inspired by film’s
The Anna Maria Island Historical Society is accepting applications through March 31 for its annual scholarship.
AMIHS is “celebrating two decades of giving scholarships to islanders pursuing higher education,” a news release stated. “The scholarship is traditionally at least $1,000 but may be more depending on the sale of the AMIHS Settlers’ Bread … baked weekly by volunteers and sold from November through March on Tuesdays at the Farmer’s Market in Anna Maria.”
The scholarship is available to graduating high school seniors or current students pursuing their posthigh school education.
This year AMIHS added a new category of students who can qualify for the scholarship. In addition to island residents, students who work for an island business can apply.
Applications can be found at high school guidance Offices as well as at the historical society’s museum, 402 Pine Ave., Anna Maria.
The scholarship will be announced in April.
For more information, call the museum at 941778-0492.
• Friday, March 10, record day, no school.
• March 13-17, spring break, no school.
• Tuesday, March 28, second-grade play, 6:30 p.m., auditorium; PTO dinner by Pizza Social, 5 p.m., cafeteria.
• Thursday, April 6, walk-a-thon.
• Friday, April 7, record day, no school.
• Tuesday, April 25, first-grade play, 6:30 p.m., auditorium; PTO dinner TBD, 5 p.m., cafeteria.
• Saturday, May 13, Spring Gala.
Anna Maria Elementary is at 4700 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach.
For more information, call the school at 941-708-5525.
When Manatee County schools go on break, community center kids go “camping.”
“Golden
With 100 tickets available for the black tie/costumed event, the night is guaranteed to sell out.
The PTO is collecting donations for auction items as well as lining up sponsors
Funding will help the PTO support the Manatee County School District’s collaboration with the Guy Harvey Foundation to operate the Guy Harvey Academy at AME.
For more about tickets, becoming a sponsor or joining the event committee, visit amepto.org.
The Anna Maria Island Art League is showcasing more than 100 “Young at Art” entries from 11 county schools at select Anna Maria, Bradenton Beach and Holmes Beach businesses.
People also can see students’ work at Springfest at city field, in the 5800 block of Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, March 18-19.
For more, go to islandartleague.org.
Dara Caudill • 941-778-5676 islandphotography.org
WEDDING PLANNER
AMI Beach Weddings
Destination Beach Wedding Experts. AMIBeachWeddings.com love@amibeachweddings.com
The Center of Anna Maria Island, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria, will host its spring break camp 8 a.m.-6 p.m. March 13-17 for kids in kindergarten through the fifth-grade.
Campers will learn daily about animals by playing games, making crafts, watching a film, visiting a wildlife rescue center and hearing Deannie Sebring, author and Anna Maria city commissioner, read from her book about her dog Skipp.
Campers also will take a trip to the Tampa Zoo at Lowry Park.
The cost for the week will be $175 for members and $200 for nonmembers.
Registration is required by Thursday, March 9.
For more, call the center at 941-778-1908.
Breaking away for a week?
The Islander welcomes photographs of your spring break activities. Please, email to news@ islander.org.
Rise, praise and feast.
St. Bernard Catholic Church’s Holy Name Society will serve pancakes in the parish hall 7:30 a.m.-noon. Sunday, March 12.
The menu includes pancakes, sausages, eggs, juice and coffee.
St. Bernard Catholic Church is at 248 S. Harbor Drive, Holmes Beach.
For more information, call the church at 941-7784769.
Blood donors are welcome after worship.
Roser Church will host a blood drive 8:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Sunday, March 12.
Donors will receive a $20 eGift card, St. Patrick’s T-shirt and a wellness checkup for blood pressure, pulse, cholesterol and more.
To make an appointment, go to roserchurch.com and use the following information: sponsor code #37502 and sponsor name “Roser Memorial Community Church.
Roser is at 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria.
For more information, call the church at 941-7780414.
3 Heath Brothers will perform at 6 p.m. Sunday, March 12, at Harvey Memorial Community Church, 300 Church Ave., Bradenton Beach.
Doors will open at 5 p.m.
The church also will host 3 Heath Brothers during its worship service that day.
The group’s online bio reads, This award-winning group of brothers is gaining a large following of young and old alike. When these young guys get up to sing, audiences are consistently shocked by their tight harmony, powerful vocals and a capella arrangements.”
For more information, call the church at 941-7791912
Major “Maj” Leckie, 91, of Leander, Texas, and formerly of Holmes Beach, died Feb. 26.
He was born Oct. 4, 1931, to Beatrice (Fairlamb) and Robert G. Leckie.
He resided in Saginaw, Michigan, most of his life. Following his graduation from Arthur Hill High School in 1949, he attended Albion College before enlisting in the U.S. Navy. He became a Navy Hospital Corpsman HM1 on the hospital ship USS Haven, stationed in Korea for three years.
Upon receiving his honorable discharge, he enrolled in the University of Michigan, where he graduated with a degree in business administration in 1958.
On Nov. 19, 1954, he married Pamela Price of
ON AMI
CrossPointe Fellowship, 8605 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. Info: 941-778-0719, crosspointefellowship.church, @CrossPointeFellowship.
Worship: Sundays, 9 a.m.
Ongoing: Wednesdays, 7 a.m., men’s Bible meeting; Wednesdays, 6 p.m., supper; Wednesdays, Night Blast, 6:45 p.m.; Fridays, 10 a.m. women’s Bible meeting.
Episcopal Church of the Annunciation, 4408 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. Info: 941-778-1638, amiannunciation.org, @EpiscopalChurchoftheAnnunciationatHolmesBeach.
Worship: Thursdays, 9:30 a.m.; Sundays, 8 a.m. and 10:15 a.m.
Ongoing: Wednesdays, 8 a.m., men’s meeting; Mondays, 1 p.m., book group.
Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, 6608 Marina Drive. Holmes Beach. Info: 941-778-1813, gloriadeilutheran.com.
Worship: Sundays, 9:30 a.m.
Ongoing: Wednesdays, 9:30 a.m., social gathering, Manatee Public Beach; Sundays, 10:15 a.m., coffee and fellowship.
Harvey Memorial Community Church, 300 Church Ave., Bradenton Beach. Information: 941-779-1912.
Worship: Sundays, 9:15 a.m.
Roser Memorial Community Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Information: 941-778-0414, roserchurch.com, @roserchurch.
Worship: Sundays, 8:30 a.m., 10 a.m.
Ongoing: Tuesdays and Thursdays, 9:30 a.m., Roser Robics; Tuesdays and Thursdays, 9 a.m.-2 p.m. and Saturdays, 10 a.m.-1 p.m., Roser Thrift Store; Wednesdays, 6:15 p.m., Youth Performing Arts, first and third Wednesdays, 11: 30 a.m., Just Older Youth group programs with brown-bag lunch; Thursdays, 5:30 p.m., Roser Ringers rehearsal; 7 p.m., Thursdays, choir rehearsal; Sundays, 8:30 a.m., adult Sunday school and coffee and conversation sessions.
St. Bernard Catholic Church, 248 S. Harbor Drive, Holmes Beach. Info: 941-778-4769, stbernardcc.org, office@stbernardcc. org.
Worship: Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m.; Saturdays, 4 p.m.; Sundays, 8:30 a.m., 10:30 a.m.
Saginaw and they subsequently had three daughters — Karen, Elizabeth, and Melissa.
Mr. Leckie was employed in medical sales and Admissions at Saginaw Valley State University. He was a member of the First Congregational Church in Saginaw and Roser Memorial Community Church in Anna Maria. He was a past member the Saginaw Club, the Germania Club, the Rotary Club and most recently the Kiwanis Club of Anna Maria Island.
Through the years in Saginaw and Florida, he was involved with numerous civic organizations, including chairman of the board of Saginaw Art Museum and PRIDE and the PRIDE Christmas Parade, serving as grand marshal.
Additionally, he served Pit and Balcony Community Theater and the University of Michigan Saginaw
Ongoing: Mondays-Fridays, 8 a.m., rosary; Wednesdays, 7:30 a.m., Rosary on the Beach at Manatee Public Beach; second Thursdays, women’s guild luncheons; Saturdays, 3 p.m., confession.
Christ Church of Longboat Key Presbyterian USA, 6400 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key. Info: 941-900-4903, christchurchoflbk.org, @CCLBK.
Worship: Sundays, 10 a.m.
Ongoing: Wednesdays, 10 a.m., Women’s Bible Study; Mondays, 9 a.m., Men’s Bible Study.
Longboat Island Chapel, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key. Info: 941-383-6491, longboatislandchapel.org, @longboatislandchapel.
Worship: Sundays, 10 a.m.
Ongoing: Mondays, Wednesdays and Saturdays, 9 a.m.-3 p.m., Lord’s Warehouse Thrift Shop; Wednesdays, 10 a.m., Bible study; Mondays, 4 p.m., choir rehearsal.
Temple Beth Israel, 567 Bay Isles Road, Longboat Key. Info: 941-383-3428.
Worship: Fridays, Shabbat, 5:30 p.m.; Saturdays, 10 a.m.
Ongoing: Fridays, 6:45 p.m., choir call.
Saturday, March 11, 8:30-11:30 a.m., Episcopal Church of the Annunciation’s pancake breakfast.
Sunday, March 12, 7:30 a.m.-noon, St. Bernard Catholic Church Holy Name Society’s pancake breakfast.
Sunday, March 12, 6 p.m., 3 Heath Brothers concert, Harvey Memorial.
Sunday, March 12, 8 a.m.-1 p.m., Roser Church blood drive.
Saturday, March 18, 8 a.m.-11 a.m., Roser Church Pancake Breakfast.
Sunday, March 19, 4 p.m., Roser Church Concert.
Sunday, March 19, 6:30 p.m., Temple Beth Israel’s men’s club sunset cruise, Sarasota.
March 22-April 21, Ramadan.
Sunday, April 2, Palm Sunday.
M Club Chapter. He served on the board of the Saginaw Club, Kiwanis Club, Friday Night Live Committee and Ethic Festival. He was an active member of the Gus Macker 3-on-3 Basketball Tournament, the Saginaw Celebration Square Children’s Zoo. First Congregational Church Saginaw and Roser Church in Anna Maria. He was commander of Korean War Veterans-Chapter 251.
He was known for his warm, outgoing personality and all who knew him were instantly a friend. He loved people and was interested in what was happening in their lives. He truly will be missed by his family and many friends.
A family memorial service is planned for March 10 in Leander. Memorial donations may be made PLeaSe, See obituaries, NeXT Page
Lisa Neff
Assistance sought on AMI
• Anna Maria Island Art League seeks volunteers for Springfest, an outdoor festival March 18-19. Info: 941-778-2099.
• Island Players seeks volunteers to serve as house managers and join the backstage crew at the Anna Maria playhouse. Info: president@theislandplayers. org.
• Moonracer Animal Rescue seeks volunteers to offer foster and forever homes for rescued animals, as well as assist with technology. Info: 941-345-2441.
• Roser Food Bank seeks donations. Roser Memorial Community Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, administers the pantry, supported by All Island Denominations. Info: 941-778-0414.
Assistance offered on AMI
• Roser Food Bank welcomes applicants who live and/or work on Anna Maria Island for food assistance, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Info: 941778-0414.
• AID offers financial help to those who live on the island, go to church on the island, attend school on the island and work on the island. Info: 941-725-2433.
GoodDeeds Does your group offer islandcentric services? Does your group need volunteers or other help? Email calendar@islanderorg.
obituaries froM Page 14
to Kiwanis Club of Anna Maria Island, the BUGS program at paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_ id=SQHM2ZWWGZLMC, to the Roser Church Food Pantry, P.O. Box 247, Anna Maria, FL 34216, or a charity of your choice.
Mr. Leckie is survived by his wife of 68 years, Pamela Price; daughters Karen Merrill Leckie Lewis and husband Dr. Colin Ross of Leander, Texas, Elizabeth Garrett Leckie Hunting of Rockford, Michigan, and Melissa Gene, Olivet, Michigan; grandchildren Major and wife Lauren Lewis, Grant and wife Jennifer Lewis, Stephanie Lewis Wolslager, Spencer and wife Katie Hunting, Erika Hunting and husband Kirk Weiss; and 15 great-grandchildren.
Julie Gilstrap Royal
Julie Gilstrap Royal, 70, of Sarasota, died Feb. 20 following a brief illness. She was born Oct. 5, 1952, in Tacoma, Washington.
She began her real estate career in 1984 and was a founding partner of SunCoast Real Estate Inc. in 1998 with its office in Holmes Beach.
She served as past president of the Women’s Council of Realtors, Manatee County Chapter, as director of
The aMI Paddlers from Paradise Dragon Boat team gathers feb. 21 after a beach cleanup in anna Maria. “We picked up four small buckets of trash and bottle caps were the most collected kind of trash. We also had a large piece of a wooden dock with nails,” coach Melinda Bradway told The Islander. “our team does like doing these beach cleanups and being a part of the community.” People interested in participating in cleanups or joining the team can contact Bradway at 941-462-2626 or mrbradway@gmail.com. Islander courtesy Photo
Desiree Tillman, a representative of Smart & Safe florida — a marijuana decriminalization group started by country music singers David and homer Bellamy — took to the beach feb. 20 to gather petition signatures. Tillman sought voters to sign a state ballot initiative on the rights of adults to purchase, possess and use dispensary marijuana recreationally. Islander Photo: robert anderson
the Manatee County Board of Realtors, and was a founding member of the Sarasota Bradenton chapter of the National Association of Residential Property Managers.
She operated the nonprofit Royal Pet Rescue for more than two decades and was tirelessly committed to pet rescues. Everyone who knew her will dearly miss her smile, warmth, loving presence and zest for life.
royal
A celebration of life will be held at a later date. Memorial donations may be made to Royal Pet Rescue, 2904 51st Ave. Terrace W., Bradenton FL 34207; Satchel’s Last Resort in Sarasota; or an animal rescue organization of your choice.
Mrs. Royal is survived by sisters Cynthia Pierzala of Rush, Kentucky, and Nancy Pritts and husband Gary of Huntsville, Alabama; brothers Tommy Gilstrap of Jacksonville, and Chris Gilstrap of Arlington, Texas.
Obituaries are offered as a community service to residents and families of residents, both past and present, as well as to those people with ties to the island. Submit to news@islander.org. Obituaries are provided free — a service of your community newspaper. Paid obituaries can be discussed with advertising consultant Toni Lyon at 941-778-7978.
By ryan Paice Islander reporter
The city of Holmes Beach is losing two familiar faces.
City officials and staff gathered Feb. 21 for a party in the Doctor’s Office Garden, 5312 Holmes Blvd., to celebrate the retirement of city planner Bill Brisson and treasurer Lori Hill.
Brisson left in early February after four years as planning and zoning administrator and city planner, as well as about 15 years working for the city as a planning consultant.
Chad Minor, the city’s planning and zoning administrator, has been filling in for Brisson since his exit.
Brisson told The Islander Feb. 22 that his hours had been limited over the past several months due to struggles with memory and concentration issues following a bout with COVID-19.
Brisson said he also recently learned he was in an early stage of Alzheimer’s disease, so he was relieved when the city found Minor to eventually succeed him.
“They needed someone who could handle it fulltime because the work was just too much for me at that point anyway,” Brisson said. “I was so glad they got Chad. He turned out to be a godsend. He’s amazing.”
Brisson’s retirement marks the end of a 50-year career as a planning consultant, including around 19 with the city.
He began consulting for the city as an employee of LaRue Planning off and on 2001-11, when he began to work more consistently for the city.
Titsworth hired Brisson as planning and zoning
administrator in 2019 and he since was named city planner.
Brisson mentioned Titsworth as one of the many people he had appreciated working with during his time with the city.
“I loved it there. There wasn’t a person in that city I didn’t get along with and like and enjoy and respect,” Brisson said. “They’ve got the best staff I’ve ever worked with.”
“I could have never found a better place to work,” he added.
“We just love Bill,” Titsworth said Feb. 21. “He’s such a sweetheart.”
Heading into retirement, Brisson said he’s excited to spend more time with family, including visiting a great aunt who lives in the Northeast United States.
He added that his wife wanted to visit Hungary, so if they can figure out how to do that, they will travel.
Hill’s last day with the city was March 3, after she wrapped up virtual training with Cindy Dunham-Tozer, who took the reins as city treasurer in early February.
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Titsworth said Feb. 21 that Hill surprised her when she announced her retirement plans last December but was “so happy” for Hill and her husband, who are retiring around the same time.
Hill told The Islander Feb. 13 that they made the decision together and were excited to spend time together after both working “nonstop” since they were 15 years old.
“We want to be together and enjoy our lives together while we’re somewhat younger and healthy,” Hill said. “Travel a little bit. We’re both outdoors people, and that’s kind of hard to do when you’re on the schedules we’ve been on.”
Hill grew up in New Jersey and moved to Florida in 2002. She became the city’s treasurer in 2012. She said she loved her time with the city.
“It was a great position,” Hill said. “I had great co-workers and, for almost 11 years, I really enjoyed working there.”
Hill said she and her husband hope to travel across the country and spend more time with her mother in North Carolina.
Nothing like hurricane conditions to make a house fire even more dangerous.
That’s the situation Manatee High School student Alexander Kirk, 15, awoke to discover Sept. 29, 2022, at 7703 Second Ave. NW, Bradenton, in his neighborhood.
a structure fire Sept. 29, 2022, at 7703 Second ave. NW, Bradenton, was extinguished by West Manatee fire rescue in the winds and rain of hurricane Ian.
BeLoW: The home remains a burned shell feb. 25.
Kirk
Hurricane Ian had made landfall in Charlotte County Sept. 28, 2022, so the West Manatee Fire Rescue — the district includes northwest Bradenton and the islands — was under lockdown for the staff’s safety when the fire was first reported.
Kirk told The Islander Feb. 23 that he woke around 2 a.m. due to a glowing light outside.
When he checked outside, he didn’t see anything, so he chalked it up to a blown transformer and went back to bed.
However, when he saw the light reappear after a few minutes and heard his mother say the neighbor’s house was on fire, he leaped from his bed.
“Without thinking about it — without thinking about the knocked down cable lines or anything — I sprinted down the road and went to one of my neighbor’s houses,” Kirk said.
There, Kirk said he asked them to call 911 about the fire, which he said was growing bigger.
The property owners had evacuated ahead of Ian’s landfall but Kirk was worried the fire would spread across the neighborhood.
“The wind was horrible and the embers of the fire
Larry Paul’s “captain Dan” photograph wins “best in show” in the 2023 cortez fishing festival Photo contest involving the florida Institute for Saltwater heritage, the artists’ guild of anna Maria Island and a.P. Bell fish house, where contest entries were displayed during the cortez commercial fishing festival in february. agaMI photographer Peter russell judged the contest. Islander courtesy Photos
were getting on the houses and the trees all over my neighborhood,” Kirk said. “It could have easily started a fire.”
One neighbor drove to the nearest WMFR station to request help but returned to tell Kirk they advised that residents in the area should evacuate their homes.
So Kirk, who plays football and participates in the Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps program at MHS, ran door to door to help neighbors in the Northwest Bradenton neighborhood evacuate to the 75th Street West postal facility.
Kirk said he was just trying to do the right thing.
He said in the months after the fire, he heard people talking about a boy who helped everyone evacuate and he wanted to let people know it was him.
“I wasn’t really thinking about it. It was just an instant thing,” he said. “I gotta help someone or let them out of the burning building if there’s anyone
there.”
WMFR firefighters arrived after a few hours to find the building had burned down but the fire did not spread.
A WMFR investigation found the fire was caused by the property’s swimming pool heater and was exacerbated by a storm-downed power line.
“Legacy” by Brittany Braniger is the second-place entry in the adult category of the cortez fishing festival Photo contest. Karen Bell, a festival organizer and fISh board member, told The Islander March 1, “I think the exhibit was well received. People seemed to enjoy wandering through the fish house looking at the photos. I went through a few times and always got good questions from those who were visiting.”
The contest also involved
entries
The Toy Barn, 5604 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, might need to look elsewhere for off-site golf cart storage.
City commissioners voted 4-1 Feb. 28 to deny a special exception request from the business to warehouse up to 10 golf carts at 3008 Ave. C.
Commissioner Terry Schaefer voted to approve the request.
The request includes a site plan establishing 10 interior parking spaces for golf carts and electric vehicles at the property, as well as plans for new fencing and the installation of three access gates.
The building has been used to house businesses in the past, including office space in the upper level, in a mixed residential-business neighborhood. It is situated on an alleyway abutting the Anchor Inn bar and near the entrance to Grassy Point Preserve.
The Toy Barn estimated employees would make 5-10 daily trips to and from the proposed warehouse to deliver and return rented golf carts.
The application prohibits the business from providing customer access to the property, vehicle repair or maintenance at the location.
Planning and zoning administrator Chad Minor said city staff recommended the commission deny the requested exception since the proposed use more
closely constituted a distribution/fulfi llment center than a warehouse.
“As described, the facility handles the fulfillment of vehicle rental requests from customers where a traditional warehouse solely stores inventory and is not intended to be part of the day-to-day commercial needs of the residents and visitors,” the staff report states.
Minor said staff also determined the exception would conflict with an ordinance prohibiting the expansion of automobile rental establishments.
He presented a list of 10 terms and conditions rec-
Holmes Beach’s ordinance to allow food trucks in the city didn’t really open the floodgates.
City code compliance supervisor JT Thomas told The Islander Feb. 16 that only one food truck has set up in the city since city commissioners adopted terms for operations in its ordinance last November.
The ordinance allows food trucks to operate on private property in the city’s C-2 and C-3 commercial zones 7 a.m.-7 p.m. up to two days a week, with the permission of a property owner.
Food trucks must be parked in a business’ excess parking spaces or other finished surfaces, and are prohibited from parking on city rights of way.
So far, the only food truck to operate under the ordinance has been a truck that sold beverages out-
side CVS, 611 Manatee Ave., with permission from the property owner and city, according to Thomas.
However, Thomas said the food truck operated at the location only for a few weekends and hasn’t been seen in recent weeks.
A CVS manager declined to comment to The Islander.
Thomas said several local business owners had expressed satisfaction with the ordinance because it allowed them to limit food truck operations that might provide unwanted competition, so he didn’t expect many to begin popping up.
“Everything’s been working itself out,” Thomas said.
Business owners and food truck operators can contact Thomas to learn more at 941-778-0331, ext. 260.
ommended by staff should commissioners approve the request, including”
• Prohibiting the delivery and return of golf carts to the location 6 p.m.-7 a.m. daily;
• Requiring overhead doors remain closed unless a golf cart is entering or exiting the warehouse;
• Prohibiting the postage of exterior signage at the property advertising rental services.
Attorney Aaron Thomas, of the Bradenton-based Najmy Thompson law firm, said the business would accept many of the staff’s recommended conditions for approval.
Thomas also said the property would serve as a warehouse since the business would not provide customer access or service.
Some commissioners had a hard time seeing it the same way, especially since the Toy Barn applied for a special exception last year to establish a golf cart rental operation at the same location.
Commission Chair Carol Soustek said she did not think the proposed use constituted a warehouse since the rental vehicles would cycle through the property.
“Under this description, you put the merchandise in the house, it leaves, but then it comes back — and then it leaves again,” Soustek said. “That, to me, is not warehousing. That’s a revolving door.”
Schaefer said he had a hard time differentiating warehousing from the rest of Toy Barn’s operations since the city had not defined warehousing as a permitted use in the C-3 commercial district, which the property is zoned.
“I think we have a problem we’ve created,” he said.
Commissioner Dan Diggins said he was concerned about a fire hazard posed by storing several vehicles powered by lithium batteries.
Thomas said the Toy Barn was willing to work with West Manatee Fire Rescue to ensure the warehouse’s safety measures were up to the job.
Schaefer moved to approve the special exception request with the staff’s recommended conditions.
Commissioner Pat Morton seconded the motion, which failed.
The commission will meet next at 2 p.m. Tuesday, March 14, at city hall, 5801 Marina Drive.
Directions to attend via Zoom can be found at holmesbeachfl.org.
Answers:
By ryan Paice Islander reporter
Those fighting to reopen a beach access are trying a new angle after an early setback.
Plaintiffs Linda Carmon and 107 78th Street Investments LLC filed a newly amended complaint in February against defendants Travis Resmondo, Michael Fronk and Oceana Condominium Association regarding the closed beach path at the end of 78th Street in Holmes Beach.
The dispute began in April 2022 when Resmondo, owner of property at 99, 100 and 101 78th St., posted signs and put in plants, ropes and bollards blocking the path and claiming it as private property.
The path begins on Resmondo’s vacant lot at 99 78th St. and continues onto Fronk’s and Oceana’s vacant lot at 98 78th St.
Several residents protested the path’s closure, citing its historic public use and contending that, at least before 2014, deeds for the property included a 10-foot-wide “non-exclusive walkway easement” that allowed public access.
Many property owners on and around 78th Street erected signs reading, “Save the beach access.”
Some called for the city to get involved but city attorney Erica Augello advised commissioners against the city’s participation since the now-missing easement lacked a listed beneficiary, which could lead a judge to consider it ambiguous language.
That left Carmon, owner of 103 and 105 78th St., 107 78th Street Investments LLC, owner of 107 78th St., and Minh Vu, owner of 202 78th St., to file a lawsuit to reopen the path in May 2022.
Their lawsuit called for a court order to declare
the now-missing easement exists at the property and entitles public access to the path, as well as an order directing defendants to restore access to the path by removing barriers and disruptive signage.
The plaintiffs also filed for a temporary injunction to reopen the path, which Judge Charles Sniffen of the 12th Judicial Circuit Court ruled in August 2022 to deny.
Sniffen said the plaintiffs failed to prove their claims of irreparable harm due to the path’s closure or show they had a substantial likelihood of success on the merits at trial.
Following the decision, Vu dismissed her claims without prejudice last November.
Nevertheless, the plaintiffs expanded their lawsuit with an amended complaint last November that added counts for declaratory judgment regarding dedication, customary use and express easement.
The amended complaint also included revisions
to count 1, which sought declaratory judgment as to whether a private or public prescriptive easement exists that would entitle public access to the path.
The newly amended complaint, filed Feb. 9, changed count 1 to seek declaratory judgment for the existence of an implied easement instead of a prescriptive easement.
A prescriptive easement is established with a continuous and open use of property adverse to its owner for a period of 20 or more years.
The latest amendment also includes new underlying facts about the development of Holmes Beach and intentions for lots 98 and 99.
The amended complaint will be discussed at a 1:30 p.m. Tuesday, April 4, hearing at the Manatee County Judicial Center, 1051 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton.
Anna Maria
No new reports.
The Manatee County Sheriff’s Office polices Anna Maria.
Bradenton Beach
Feb. 22, 103 Gulf Drive S., Circle K, trespass. A Manatee County sheriff’s deputy responded to a call concerning a man causing a disturbance in front of the store. The caller gave dispatchers a description of the man. Officers located a person who matched the description and advised him he was trespassed from the premises. An incident report was filed.
The Bradenton Beach Police Department polices Bradenton Beach.
Cortez
No new reports.
The MCSO polices Cortez.
Holmes Beach
Feb. 21, 6400 block of Flotilla Drive, Marchman Act. Two officers from the Holmes Beach Police Department responded to reports of an overdose and arrived after the crews from Manatee County Emergency Medical Services and West Manatee Fire Rescue, which were treating the man. The officers spoke with a witness who said the man snorted an unknown pill. The man declined medical intervention but the officers placed him in custody under the Marchman Act and transported him to HCA Florida Blake Hospital in Bradenton.
Feb. 20, Walgreens, 3200 E. Bay Drive, shoplifting. Two HBPD officers responded to reports of shoplifting and spoke with the manager, who said a person
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attempted to leave without paying for a bottle of liquor but handed it back when confronted. The manager said another man stole several bottles of liquor a couple of days earlier and both incidents involved the same vehicle. The manager wanted to press charges if the suspects were apprehended and provided store video.
Feb. 24, Waterline Villas & Marina, 5325 Marina Drive, suspicious circumstance. An officer saw a motorist leave the parking lot at a high rate of speed. He followed and used radar to clock the motorist, who was driving 50 mph in a 25-mph zone. The officer attempted a traffic stop but the motorist fled on Manatee Avenue toward Bradenton. The officer collected the vehicle’s information and later found it abandoned in a Bradenton parking lot. The officer called the Bradenton Police Department to respond. The officer later called the vehicle owner, a female, who said it must have been stolen and that she wanted to press charges. The BPD took over the investigation since the vehicle was stolen out of Bradenton.
Feb. 20, 200 block of 71st Street, grand theft. The HBPD received a call from a property owner that a pool pump was missing. An officer investigated and found the pump’s power wires and PVC piping had been severed and the pump was missing. The officer provided the property owner a victim’s rights pamphlet and searched the area for security cameras to no avail.
Feb. 25, Kingfish Boat Ramp, 752 Manatee Ave. W., Baker Act. An officer responded to reports that a woman called a suicide hotline and was threatening to kill herself. The officer found a woman in the driver’s seat of a vehicle. The officer knocked on the window but the woman did not respond. The officer called EMS, at which point the woman got up, ran and fell. The officer placed the woman in the back of his vehicle until EMS arrived and transported her to HCA Florida Blake Hospital in Bradenton for treatment.
HBPD polices Holmes Beach.
Streetlife is based on incident reports and narratives from the BBPD, HBPD and MCSO.
a West Manatee fire rescue district fire engine parks feb. 27 outside La creperie in the anna Maria Island centre shopping plaza, 3216 e. Bay Drive, holmes Beach, where a potential structure fire was reported due to smoke. Instead, WMfr firefighters found a cake left in the oven, resulting in the smoke. There was no fire to extinguish and no damages, according to Deputy chief Jay Johnson. Islander Photo: courtesy olivia Willis
Manatee county
Sheriff’s Sgt. John
Wren joined the gallery for the feb. 23 anna Maria commission meeting, where Mayor Dan Murphy announced Wren is filling in for Sgt. Brett getman at the McSo-anna Maria substation for the “next few months.” getman continues to recover from a Dec. 19, 2022, heart attack. Wren and McSo Lt. Louis Licata will share supervisory duties until getman returns. Licata said they were waiting to learn more about when getman would return to the job but it’s taking “a little longer than we anticipated.” To reach the anna Maria substation, call 941-708-8899. In an emergency, call 911. Islander Photo: ryan Paice
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• Gulf Drive in Bradenton Beach: Manatee County is relocating and replacing sewer lines in Bradenton Beach along Gulf Drive from Sixth Street South to 13th Street South. Motorists can expect traffic delays. For more information, go online to amiprojects.io.
• Gulf and Marine drives in Holmes Beach: Holmes Beach contractor crews continue working near the intersection of Gulf and Marina drives on new amenities. So there are marked detours and closures at Marina and Gulf drives in the city center. Traffic patterns can change. For the latest, check the city’s page on Facebook.
• Holmes Boulevard in Holmes Beach: Manatee County is working on a force main project along Holmes Boulevard, which can result in some traffic delays and congestion. For more information, go online to amiprojects.io.
For area road watch information, go online to swflroads.com or dial 511.
— Lisa Neff
An eagle-eyed wildlife rescuer spotted something out of place Feb. 26.
Cindy Ellis, a 20-year volunteer with Wildlife Inc. of Bradenton Beach, went to check on an eagle’s nest atop a cell tower near the 4400 block of Cortez Road West in Bradenton after residents spotted an eagle harassing a nested pair of eagles with its young.
Upon arriving, Ellis noticed an eaglet at the base of the tower.
She said the bird most likely fell from the nest to escape the intruder.
“The intruder is in there making trouble, probably trying to get food, really not trying to take over the nest because that particular eagle is not ready to nest yet,” Ellis said in a Feb. 28 interview with The Islander.
She called Wildlife Inc. in Bradenton Beach and then captured the bird.
Wildlife Inc.’s Gail Straight showed up shortly after Ellis’s call.
“We had it promptly examined by a vet and fortunately no injuries,” Ellis said.
After ascertaining the bird’s health, the group decided to renest the eaglet.
Wildlife Inc. then contacted Steve Pender, project manager for Dynamic South Inc., a contractor for Crown Castle, which owns the tower.
Pender arrived from Fort Myers and, with the bird in a backpack, climbed the tower to place the eaglet alongside a second eaglet in the nest.
“From the second I called, they immediately dispatched someone. Their responsiveness and professionalism were just outstanding,” Ellis said of Dynamic
an eaglet waits in a basked to be returned to its nest atop a cell tower in the 4400 block of cortez road West in Bradenton.
South Inc. and Wildlife Inc. “It wouldn’t have a happy ending without them.”
About Wildlife Inc.
Wildlife Inc. Education & Rehabilitation Center, founded by Gail and Ed Straight in 1987, is the county’s only licensed bird, mammal and reptile wildlife rehabilitation facility.
The Straights rescue and house more than 3,000 animals a year at their home at 2207 Ave. B, Bradenton
Beach. Many animals find their way to the facility, including foxes, otters, owls, deer and osprey.
To learn more about Wildlife Inc., go online to wildlifeinc.org or call 941-778-6324.
“Lucky Us 2” was freed March 3 from where it crashed on shore in a feb. 12 storm near 79th Street in holmes Beach after its crew was rescued by the U.S. coast guard the night before. James golembiewski, the sailboat’s owner, told The Islander March 3 that he was set to try to tow the boat out deeper water with the help of the wind and high surf and a few cortez fishermen at high tide March 4. however, golembiewski said the surf was too rough and they could not remove the boat over the weekend,. he plans to request an administrative hearing with the florida fish and Wildlife conservation commission about the boat’s removal if he can’t salvage if before an fWc-imposed March 9 deadline. Islander Photo: courtesy holmes Beach
By robert anderson Islander reporter
Alert islanders dialed into FWC for a rescue.
When Holmes Beach resident Gy Yartros and his neighbors noticed a manatee in Anna Maria Sound that seemed in distress Feb. 26, they put out a call to the wildlife hotline at the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, which dispatched agent Tim Bonsper by kayak.
Bonsper stayed with the juvenile female manatee until a crew on a rescue boat arrived to capture the animal, according to marine biologist Brandon Bassett of the FWC.
Bassett said the manatee showed signs of a boat strike injury and possibly red tide exposure.
The rescue, which took about three hours, also involved Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium in Sarasota.
“We transported it to Zoo Tampa. They’ve got a really excellent manatee hospital and they take in a lot of the local manatees that need to be rescued,” Bassett said.
Bassett said Zoo Tampa reported that the manatee “got antibiotics, put in a nice warm pool and apparently it started to nibble on food already, which is a very good sign.”
He said the manatee could stay in captivity and recovery up to a year.
Zoo Tampa at Lowry Park has 20 manatees undergoing treatments.
The injured juvenile manatee prompted the FWC agent to remind boaters to be mindful of the marine mammals.
The FWC recommends boaters:
• Obey posted signs;
• Reduce speeds while using a prop guard. A slower speed reduces the chance the guard will harm a manatee if it is struck;
• Avoid traveling in seagrass or shallow areas where manatees might be feeding or resting.
For safety zone maps and more information about manatees, go to myfwc.com.
The wildlife alert hotline is 888-404-FWCC. Cellular phone users can also call *FWC or #FWC, or send a text to tip@myfwc.com.
fWc wildlife rescue personnel circle a juvenile female manatee needing rescue feb. 26 after calls from holmes Beach residents alerted them to a manatee in trouble. Islander Photos: courtesy gy Yartros
By Kevin P. cassidy Islander reporter
Starting in early January and concluding Feb. 28, 32 couples competed in the annual Key Royale Club couples tournament.
Playing a handicap Pinehurst format over 36 holes, the team of Debi Wohlers and Steve Vasbinder combined on a 13-under-par 115 to take first place.
Ann and John Hackinson were alone in second at 10-under-par 118, followed by third-place finishers Ann and Jim Hitchen.
cassidy
Brenda Solleveld and Tom Solosky won the closest-to-the-pin contest, while the straightest drive was won by Brenda and Peter Solleveld. Clarissa Hill and Nelson Eagle won the longest drive, while Linda Dorsey and Al Pollock won the putting contest.
Regular golf action started Feb. 27 with the men’s weekly modified-Stableford system match. Mike Clements and Buddy Foy shared first place with matching plus-7s. Quentin Talbert and Jack Connor were two points back in a tie for second, while Fred Miller, Ron Pfaff and Larry Solberg tied for third at plus-4.
The women played a nine-hole individual-low-net match Feb. 28 in two flights. Roxanne Koche fired a 1-under-par 31 to take first place in Flight A by a stroke over Phyllis Roe and Brenda Solleveld, who both finished at even-par 32. Margrit Layh and Janna Samuels tied for third at 1-over-par 33.
Flight B saw Lisa Edmonds, Jackie Gorski, Connie Livanos, Kay Neal and Carol Patterson all finish at even-par 32 for a five-way tie for first place.
The week concluded March 2 with a nine-hole scramble that saw the team of Tim Donnar, Jerry Martinek, Ron Pfaff and Joe Tynan combine on a 5-under-par 27 for clubhouse bragging rights. Mike Gillie, Jenny Huibers, Jack Lowry and Mike Riddick were alone in second with a 3-under-par 29.
Horseshoe action March 1 at the Anna Maria pits saw two teams emerge from pool play to battle it out for the championship. Tim Sofran and Karl Thomas edged Bob Hawks 22-17 to win the day’s championship.
The AMI Pitchers then honored long-time lead man, the late Ron Pepka, with the 10th annual Ron Pepka Memorial Horseshoe Tournament. The doubleelimination tourney saw Tom Skoloda and Adin Shank
advance to the finals with a 23-18 victory over Bob Baker and Billy Silver. Skoloda and Shank defeated Bob Mason and Tom Anderton 22-16 for their first loss, setting up a winner-take-all showdown. Skoloda and Shank stayed hot and defeated Mason and Anderson 23-16 to win the day’s proceedings.
Play gets underway at 9 a.m. Wednesdays and Saturdays at the Anna Maria pits. Warmups begin at 8:45 a.m., followed by random team selection. There is no charge to play and everyone is welcome.
Football playoffs underway at center field
Yes, they’re still playing football at the community center.
First-round playoff action in the adult flag football league at the Center of Anna Maria Island kicked off March 2 with four games.
Things got going with No. 2 Moss Builders blowing past No. 7 Gulf Drive Cafe by a 50-25 score behind seven touchdown passes from Ryan Moss, including two each to Greg Moss and Brandon Rolland.
Steve Pavina threw three touchdown passes and added a pick-six on defense to lead Gulf Drive Cafe, which also received three touchdown receptions from Anthony Mannino in the loss.
Luxury Services showed why its No. 1 in a win over No. 8 Ugly Grouper 96-0 behind 10 touchdown passes from Chase Richardson, including four to Jonathan Soultatos and three to Jasmine Muldoon.
Mark Malinowski of Perico Island brought home some metal feb. 25 on winning the 55s division consolation tournament in the raymond James Super Senior grand Prix, part of the Larry Turville West coast Super Senior circuit and hosted by the St. Petersburg country club.
Malinowski defeated Devin Danehy of St. Pete, Javier espinoza of Tampa and, in the final, Michael roberts of Vero Beach.
The annual Key royale club couples tourney saw second-place finishers John and ann hackinson, champions Steve Vasbinder and Debi Wohlers and fourth-place finishers helen and al Pollock posing feb. 28 following the weekslong tournament. Not
Pictured: third-place finishers ann and Jim hItchen. Islander
courtesy Krc
Third seed Solid Rock Construction won a 23-18 victory over Banks Home Lending that saw Dominick Otteni throw three TD passes to Corey Jacques.
Banks team was led by three TD passes from Jeremy Cruz Rodriguez, including one each to Shawn Balvin, Julia King and Anthony McCance.
The last game of the evening saw No. 4 Briley Mortgage eliminate Sandbar Restaurant 39-13, thanks to a pair of rushing TDs and a receiving TD from Matthew Briley. Jonathan Moss added two TD passes and Connor Haughey had a pick six to pace the defense in the victory.
Matt Manger threw two TD passes to lead Sandbar, which also received touchdown grabs from Christian Hampton and Zachary Routh in the loss.
Playoff action continues at 7 p.m. Thursday, March 9, with No. 1 Luxury Services taking on fourth seed Briley Mortgage followed by the No. 2 seed matched up against No. 3 Solid Rock Construction at 8 p.m.
The youth flag football league at the center got started Feb. 27 with four quarterfinal matches in the 8-10 division, starting with No. 1 Sato Real Estate cruising past No. 8 SynLawn 47-12 behind two TD passes and a rushing TD from Brandon Sato. Kellen Reed added two rushing TDs for Sato in the victory. Nolan Anderson paced SynLawn with two rushing TDs.
The second game Feb. 27 saw No. 2 Solid Rock Construction roll to a 41-6 victory over No. 7 Cloud Pest Control thanks to four TD passes and a rushing TD from Kyle Mims. Samuel Raulerson added three TD catches, while Turner Worth finished with a rushing and receiving TD.
Elijah Casciani scored on a TD run to put Cloud Pest Control on the scoreboard.
No. 6 Moss Builders 28-24 victory over No. 3 Island Real Estate was the only upset on the night, as Aidan Guess ran for a TD and caught a pair of TDs from quarterback Luke Willing in the victory.
Sawyer Leibfried had three TD passes to lead Island Real Estate, which also received two TD grabs from Steven Sheehan in the loss.
The final game of the night saw No. 4 Westfall’s Lawn Care & Pest Control edge No. 5 AMI Coconuts 27-26 behind four TD passes from Kellen Hunt, including two to Callin Westfall.
Preston LaPensee ran for two scores and threw a TD pass to lead AMI Coconuts, which also received TDs from Kason Davis and Matthew Perkins.
By capt. Danny Stasny Islander reporter
March is upon us and you can bet most inshore anglers around Anna Maria Island have one thing on their minds — the opening of snook season.
With water temps in the low to mid 70s, the snook are hungry and on the prowl.
March 1 marked the opening day for harvest of the popular inshore game fish in west central Florida. Whether in a boat, wading the flats or fishing the bridges, piers and passes, snook fanatics are out in hordes.
StasnyThere will be some snook that fall prey to the irresistible temptation to take a bait, even if there’s a hook in it.
As the season progresses, the snook will get wise and it’ll be harder to catch fish 28-31 inches. Among fish species, snook seem to rate fairly high on the intelligence scale. They sense when things aren’t right and come down with a case of lockjaw. And when this happens, the angler knows it’s time to quit for the day — or at least until the tide changes.
When snook are biting, a host of offerings — live and artificial — will work as bait. Live baits such as pinfish, shrimp and shiners are delectable to a hungry snook. Artificials such as topwater plugs, lipped plugs and jigs also work if the conditions are right. For those who like punishment, snook will take a fly.
Lastly, make sure to become familiar with regulations when targeting snook. A legal snook for harvest must measure at least 28 inches and not more than 33 inches. There may not be a game warden in sight but if a local sees you poaching a snook, they will educate you on your mistake.
Season is open through April 30 and again Sept. 1-Nov. 31.
Happy snook fishing.
On my Just Reel charters, I’m seeing the most action occurring on deep grass flats. Free-lining shiners over the areas is resulting in many spotted seatrout and Spanish mackerel. Bluefish and ladyfish are in the mix, which keeps the rods bent for quite a while. On shallower flats, snook are beginning to cooperate as the water temps rise.
Jim Malfese at the Rod & Reel Pier says he’s seeing numerous sheepshead being caught. Pier fishers
Playoff action in the 11-13 division got started Feb. 28 with No. 1 Pineapple Market Place earning a 39-20 victory over No. 8 Chick-Fil-A behind two rushing and one passing TD from Jack Mattick. Krosby Lamison added two TD catches and Peyton Hovda ran for another score to lead Pineapple Market Place.
TD passes from Ryk Kesten to Joell Figueroa and Renan Kesten paced the Chick-Fil-A offense, while Lucas Signor added a pick-six in the loss.
Third seed Moss Builders cruised to a 39-18 victory over No. 6 Intentional Resilient Intuitive in the second game thanks to two rushing and two passing TDs from Mason Moss and two rushing TDs from Estella Long.
Charlie Neri threw a TD pass to Emma Raulerson and Kegan McGlade ran for another score for Intentional Resilient Intuitive.
using live shrimp as bait are frequently hooking into sheepshead — with some measuring up to 15 inches.
Live shrimp as bait are attracting redfish and black drum.
In evening hours at the pier, snook are venturing out near the pier edges to feed. Anglers using live pinfish or live shiners as bait are getting results.
Capt. David White says the springtime bite is kicking off nicely offshore. African pompano are the highlight. The large predatory fish are being caught on live baits, such as pinfish or large shiners. Depths around 120 feet are proving to be advantageous when targeting these fish. Also at these depths, red grouper are making a showing, as well as yellowtail snapper.
Moving inshore, White says snook and trout are dominating the bite and live shiners as bait are the ticket. On deeper flats, White is finding mackerel.
Capt. Warren Girle says fishing nearshore structure is providing a consistent bite. Using live shrimp as bait is leading to a variety of species. Hogfish are being caught in between action on porgies, Key West grunts and mangrove snapper. Girle notes that quite a few triggerfish are being reeled up, too.
Moving into the waters of Sarasota Bay, Girle is
Next up, No. 2 Solid Rock Construction advanced with a 33-12 victory over No. 6 Sandhoff Construction behind four TD passes from Carter Eurice, including three to Audrey Guess.
Charlie Rogers paced Sandhoff Construction with two TD passes to Colten Shook.
The last game of the night saw No. 4 Shady Lady Horticultural Services take a 20-6 victory over No. 5 Storage Building Company. Caden Quimby connected with Frankie Coleman for three TD passes to lead Shady Lady in the victory.
Landon Snyder threw a TD pass to Mazie Zoller to lead Storage Building in the loss.
Playoff action in both youth divisions was to resume at 6 p.m. March 6 and conclude with championship games March 7, after press time for The Islander.
Phil Pellegrino from alabama shows off an inshore catch March 2 — a nice redfish. Pelgrino and friends caught several redfish using shrimp as bait. This one went back into the water after a trophy photo. The anglers were guided to the fish by capt. Warren girle.
targeting redfish. Hunting fish around structure such as docks or oyster bars is providing the most action.
Lastly, Girle says, snook and trout are being caught on the grass flats.
On March 3, Capt. Scott Moore reported dead fish — snook, redfish and some grouper — floating in Sarasota Bay, the victims of red tide carried in with the high winds. He was hoping the wind would turn out of the north overnight to clear the bay of toxins before the situation worsened.
Moore was worried the red tide would be carried into the canals, where some of the bigger fish are hiding.
Capt. Jason Stock is targeting permit around offshore reefs and wrecks. Permit in the 20-pound range are responding nicely to live crab offerings. Moving farther into the Gulf is producing action. African pompano 30-40 pounds also are being caught by Stock’s clients. Live baits or vertical jigging are working to attract these fi erce predators. Large amberjack are being caught in the same areas as the APs. Trolling while offshore is working out for Stock’s anglers who are searching for blackfin tuna.
Lastly, according to Stock, yellowtail snapper are being caught while bottom fishing.
Send high-resolution photos and fishing reports to fish@islander.org.
The red tide organism, Karenia brevis, was detected in Southwest Florida during the week ending March 5.
In Southwest Florida, K. brevis was observed at very low to medium concentrations in and offshore of Manatee County, background to high concentrations in Sarasota County and low to medium concentrations in Pinellas County.
There were reports of red-tide related fish kills and respiratory irritation from Manatee County.
For more information, go online to myfwc.com/ research/redtide/statewide/.
A dolphin’s life was on the line.
A team of 51 people — veterinarians, biologists, stranding responders, trained handlers and law enforcement officers — Feb. 21 worked in Sarasota Bay to catch, treat and release a 2-year-old female bottlenose dolphin calf with fishing lines cutting deeply into her tail flukes.
There was nearly 10 feet of monofi lament and micro-multifilament braided lines —which had accumulated barnacles and algae and other biofouling — trailing behind the calf, creating drag.
The entanglement was pulling the lines deeper into the calf, preventing normal swimming and activities, according to a news release from the Chicago Zoological Society’s Sarasota Dolphin Research Program.
A boat tour operator had sighted the calf in early January.
Then the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s National Marine Fisheries Service granted permission to Mote Marine Laboratory’s Stranding Investigations Program and its designee, the SDRP, to attempt a remote disentanglement if conditions were favorable and opportunity arose.
Several days after the initial sighting, while performing routine surveys, SDRP staff found the calf and its mom. They removed approximately two-thirds of the line from the calf.
After the line was cut, the pair eluded biologists for the next several weeks.
When the dolphins were spotted again, more biofouling had accumulated on the fishing gear.
NOAA approved a catch-and-release rescue to remove the remaining line. The day before the rescue, the calf was observed no longer using its fl ukes to swim and instead was slipstreaming its mother and sculling with its flippers.
SDRP led the rescue in collaboration with Mote, Clearwater Marine Aquarium, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission divisions, Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institution/FAU, Sarasota Police Department, SeaWorld of Florida and the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine.
In addition to removing the line, an antibiotic was
a rescue team feb. 21 removes entangled fishing line and biofouling from a 2-year-old female bottlenose dolphin calf’s tail flukes that was preventing normal swimming. The mother was fitted with a satellite-linked tag to track and monitor the pair. Islander Photo: courtesy chicago Zoological Society’s Sarasota Dolphin research Program/NMfS Scientific research Permit No. 24359
University of florida lead veterinarian Mike Walsh feb. 21 removes fishing line and other debris from the flukes of a 2-year-old female bottlenose dolphin in Sarasota Bay. The entanglement was preventing the dolphin from normal swimming and activities. Islander Photo: courtesy chicago Zoological Society’s Sarasota Dolphin research Program/NMfS Scientific research Permit No. 24359
administered to the calf and the mother was outfitted with a satellite-linked tag.
The rescue effort took less than an hour.
“It is highly likely that without any intervention, the calf would not have survived,” Dr. Randy Wells said in a news statement. He’s vice president of marine mammal conservation for the Chicago Zoological Society and director of the Sarasota Dolphin Research Program.
Over the years, SDRP’s staff and its partners have aided dozens of bottlenose dolphins that have suffered entanglements.
“When sharing the same space with dolphins and other marine wildlife, it is important to know the best practices for keeping them safe while continuing to enjoy our marine environment,” Wells said. “These include not feeding the animals, reeling in fishing line if a dolphin is nearby, disposing of trash properly, using corrodible fishing hooks, and staying at least 50 yards away from wild dolphins.”
5608 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach 941.896.7898
Think of birdwatchers as a refined bunch?
Sure, they might go gently into nature to spot a new species on their life list.
They might tiptoe into the mangroves to spy upon a shorebird.
But on more than one occasion I’ve been among giddy birders running, jumping, pointing, shouting about a rare species, beautiful plumage, odd behavior, nested chicks.
Neff
Sometimes birders become so excited about a site that they can say no more than a word as they look to a tree or the sky.
“Robin!” I shouted to my wife just the other day.
“Geese!” my wife called out during a sunset walk last night.
“Ducks!” she hollered this morning while savoring coffee on the back patio.
Look
Common loon
Pied-billed grebe
Brown booby
Northern gannet
White pelican
Brown pelican
Double-breasted cormorant
Anhinga
Magnificent frigatebird
American bittern
Least bittern
Great blue heron
Great egret
Snowy egret
Little blue heron
Tricolored heron
Reddish egret
Cattle egret
Green heron
White ibis
Glossy ibis
Roseate spoonbill
Wood stork
Black vulture
Turkey vulture
Greater scaup
Lesser scaup
Osprey
Bald eagle
Cooper’s hawk
Red-shouldered hawk
Red-tailed hawk
Limpkin
Black-bellied plover
Snowy plover
Wilson’s plover
Piping plover
Say no more.
We’re experiencing our version of March madness with the spring migration underway.
Migrating species that might be overhead in Manatee County this week include the yellow-rumped warbler, lesser scaup, house wren, Eastern phoebe, cedar waxwing, American robin, painted bunting and blueheaded vireo.
BirdCast, an online migration tracking tool from Cornell Lab of Ornithology and Colorado State University, estimated about 3,600 birds crossed Manatee County the evening of March 1 and, nationwide that night, an estimated 15 million birds were in flight.
Oystercatcher
Black-necked stilt
American avocet
Greater yellowlegs
Lesser yellowlegs
Willet
Spotted sandpiper
Ruddy turnstone
Red knot
Sanderling
Western sandpiper
Least sandpiper
Laughing gull
Franklin’s gull
Bonaparte’s gull
Ring-billed gull
Herring gull
Gull-billed tern
Caspian tern
Royal tern
Sandwich tern
Common tern
Forster’s tern
Least tern
Black tern
Black skimmer
Rock dove
Collared dove
Mourning dove
Ground dove
Monk parakeet
Black-hooded parakeet
Mangrove cuckoo
Smooth-billed ani
Groove-billed ani
Eastern screech owl
Great horned owl
Barred owl
geese in flight. a spring migration is underway in North america but bird migration is cyclical, with varying migration periods in the northern and southern hemispheres. reflecting the varying periods, World Migratory Bird Day is observed May 13 and oct. 14. Islander courtesy Photo
Meanwhile, breeding season on Florida beaches is about to begin and will continue through the summer.
Many plovers and oystercatchers will be on nests by the end of this month while, in early April, some seabird colonies will begin forming and, later that month, plover, willet and oystercatcher chicks will begin to appear.
The peak of the breeding season arrives in May and June, followed by second clutches and renesting attempts in July.
We’ll be on the lookout. “Chicks!” we’ll shout.
Common nighthawk
Belted kingfisher
Red-bellied woodpecker
Downy woodpecker
Northern flicker
Pileated woodpecker
Acadian flycatcher
Eastern phoebe
Eastern kingbird
Gray kingbird
Loggerhead shrike
Blue jay
American crow
Fish crow
Tree swallow
Carolina chickadee
Tufted titmouse
Nuthatch
Carolina wren
House wren
Sedge wren
Marsh wren
Kinglet
Gnatcatcher
Eastern bluebird
Swainson’s thrush
Hermit thrush
Wood thrush
American robin
Gray catbird
Northern mockingbird
European starling
American pipit
Cedar waxwing
Tennessee warbler
Nashville warbler
Yellow warbler
Magnolia warbler
Cape May warbler
Pine warbler
Prairie warbler
Palm warbler
Blackpoll warbler
Cerulean warbler
Black-and-White warbler
American redstart
Swainson’s warbler
Ovenbird
Waterthrush
Kentucky warbler
Yellowthroat
Hooded warbler
Canada warbler
Wilson’s warbler
Summer tanager
Scarlet tanager
Western tanager
Eastern towhee
Northern cardinal
Grosbeak
Indigo bunting
Painted bunting
Common grackle
Boat-tailed grackle
Brown-headed cowbird
Baltimore oriole
House finch
Pine siskin
American goldfinch
House sparrow
Other sightings:
haVILaND aNTIQUe freNch dishes. Limoges autumn Leaf with gold trim. five-piece place setting for 12. five serving pieces. excellent condition, $500. 941-504-0526.
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ceraMIc aND PoLYMer clay books. 15@ $20. 941-782-8382, (after noon).
SIX cafe TaBLe chairs, $20 or six for $75. Pictures on request. 724-986-0314.
Sandy’s Lawn Service Inc.
Paradise Improvements 941.792.5600
chaIr: BLacK, SofT cushion $15/ each and office chair, white, $10. Side tables, brown with glass top. 2/$25. 941920-2494.
aNTIQUe ParTNer DeSK: all wood, $500. Inquire at The Islander office, 315 58th St. Suite J, holmes Beach. 941-778-7978.
VIcTorIaN BaBY carrIage: Wood/wicker, great photo or theater prop. Benefits Moonracer animal rescue. for photos: moonraceranimalrescue@gmail.com.
Individuals may place one free ad with up to three items, each priced $100 or less, 15 words or less. free, one week, must be submitted online. email classifieds@islander. org, fax toll-free 1-866-362-9821. (limited time offer)
ANNOUNCEMENTS
arTS aND crafT show: 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday, March 11. Park-wide yard sale. Sarasota Bay rV Park and Paradise estates. 10777 cortez road W., Bradenton.
LoST IPhoNe: LoST/misplaced my apple iPhone, blue cover, Saturday at cortez fishing festival. Tony, 863-214-3886.
RDI CONSTRUCTION INC.
Bella is an 8-year-old mixed-breed lovebug!
She’s neutered and has all vaccinations — ready to meet her new family! Call Lisa Williams at 941-3452441 or visit The Islander office in Holmes Beach. And for more about pet adoption, visit moonraceranimalrescue.com.
SPoNSoreD BY
heLP reScUeD PeTS! Volunteer, foster, computer help needed! Moonracer animal rescue. email: moonraceranimalrescue@ gmail.com.
goLf carT reNTaLS: fun for residents and tourists! www.golfcartrentalaMI.com.
haVe a BoaT and wanna catch more fish, better bait or learn the water? 50-year local fisherman, your boat, my knowledge. captain chris, 941-896-2915.
SUNcoaST BoTToM PaINTINg: Professional bottom painting. Mobile. call 941704-9382.
are YoU LooKINg for a job that makes a difference? Skyway Memorial gardens is looking for a cemetery caretaker. $15/hour Please, call 941-722-4543.
NoW hIrINg haNDYMaN: full-time professional services. $15 an hour and up, based on experience. call JayPros, 941962-2874.
rePorTer WaNTeD: full- to part-time. Print media, newspaper experience required. apply via email with letter of interest to news@islander.org.
NeeD aN aDULT night out? call Maty’s Babysitting Services. I’m 16, love kids and have lots of experience. references upon request. 618-977-9630.
KIDS for hIre ads are free for up to three weeks for Island youths under 16 looking for work. ads must be placed in person at The Islander office, 315 58th St. Suite J, holmes Beach.
BUSINeSS oPPorTUNITY: 30-year successful island business, owner ready to sell for health reasons. Secure lease. Serious inquiries: Biz op, P.o. Box 145, anna Maria fL 34216.
IS YoUr hoMe or office in need of some cleaning? Well, I’m your girl! Local, reliable, professional! Please, give me a call or text, 941-773 -0461.
cLeaNINg: VacaTIoN, coNSTrUcTIoN, residential, commercial and windows. Licensed and insured. 941-756-4570.
PreSSUre WaShINg, PaVer sealing, driveway, roof, fence, pool area. also, window cleaning. Licensed and insured. 941-5653931.
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coMPaNIoN/hoMeMaKer: honest and reliable offering help with running errands, grocery shopping, house sitting, pet and plant care, light cooking/cleaning, transportation. references available and licensed. call Sherri, 941-592-4969.
aPI’S DrYWaLL rePaIr: I look forward to servicing your drywall repair needs. call 941524-8067 to schedule an appointment.
ProfeSSIoNaL WINDoW cLeaNINg: residential, commercial, free estimates. “We want to earn your business!” 207-852-6163.
aIrPorT rIDeS: SaraSoTa, St. Pete, Tampa. call/text, Vita, 941-376-7555.
ParaDISe PeT care: Pet specialist. Walking, sitting, vet visits. Training and love. Jason, 908-720-1688.
BUSINeSS-To-BUSINeSS JD’s Window cleaning looking for storefront jobs in holmes Beach. I make dirty windows sparkling clean. 941-920-3840.
cLeaN Tech MoBILe Detailing. at your location. cars, boats, rVs. call or text Billie for an appointment. 941-592-3482.
Beach SerVIce air conditioning, heat, refrigeration. commercial/residential service, repair/replace. Serving Manatee county and the Island since 1987. for dependable, honest and personalized service, call Bill eller, 941-795-7411. cac184228.
LAWN & GARDEN
coNNIe’S LaNDScaPINg INc. residential and commercial. full-service lawn maintenance, landscaping, cleanups, hauling and more! Insured. 941-778-5294.
BarNeS LaWN aND Landscape LLc. Design and installation, lawn and landscape services, tree trimming, mulch, rock and shell. 941-705-1444. Jr98@barneslawnandlandscape.com.
coLLINS LaNDScaPe LIghTINg: outdoor lighting, landscaping, irrigation services and maintenance. 941-279-9947. MJc24373@ gmail.com.
SearaY SPrINKLer SerVIceS. repairs, additions, drip, sprinkler head/timer adjustments. 941-920-0775.
S he LL D e LIV ere D a ND spread. h auling all kinds of gravel, mulch, topsoil with free estimates. call Larry at 941-795-7775, “shell phone” 941-720-0770.
MP LaWN MaINTeNaNce now accepting new clients. call Dante, 941-730-9199. mp@ mplawnmaintenance.com.
Je BLacKWooD garDeNer: ornamental horticulture expert. c are of trees, shrubs, vines, flowers, 25 years’ experience, excellent references, estate trained. US Navy vet. 941-718-9087.
VaN-go PaINTINg residential/commercial, interior/exterior, pressure cleaning, wallpaper. Island references. Bill, 941-795-5100. www.vangopainting.net.
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gr I ff IN’S ho M e IMP ro V e M e NTS Inc. h andyman, fine woodwork, countertops, cabinets and wood flooring. Insured and licensed. 941-722-8792.
BLINDS, ShUTTerS, ShaDeS: Motorization. 30 years on a MI. c all Keith Barnett, Barnett Blinds, 941-730-0516.
ISLaND haNDYMaN: I live here, work here, value your referral. refinish, paint. Just ask. JayPros. Licensed/insured. references. call Jay, 941-962-2874.
ha NDYM a N a ND Pa INTIN g . No job too small. Most jobs just right. c all r ichard Kloss. 941-204-1162.
ScreeNINg SerVIceS: replace your old or ripped window, door or porch screens. Many screen types available. retired veteran here to serve our community! free estimates, call Lane, 941-705-5293.
caLL hYDro cLeaN. full-service pressure washing, sealing. Pavers, travertine and natural stone. Window washing too, up to three stories. call Jacob, 941-920-2094.
S ara S o Ta INT er I or Pa INTIN g : We specialize in high-end properties. We love to paint! o wner operated. f ully insured/ licensed. call or text Don, 941-900-9398. Instagram: SarasotaInteriorPainting.
SoUThWeST hoMe IMProVeMeNT: Michigan builder, quality work guaranteed. affordable, timely, within budget. call Mike’s cell: 1-616-204-8822.
a NN a M ar I a g UL f beachfront vacation rentals. one- two- and three-bedroom units, all beachfront. www.amiparadise.com. 941778-3143.
P er I co ISL a ND PaTI o home for rent. 3Br/2Ba. two-car garage, fully renovated. 30-day minimum. Privacy fence/gate, two miles to aMI. #bluerockingchair instagram/ fb. 859-771-6423.
More ads = more readers in The Islander.
coNDo for reNT: June through october. 3Br/2Ba Perico Bay club. Two-month minimum. community pool and hot tub. one mile from anna Maria Island. call Dave at 856495-7200 for details.
B ea UTI f ULLY f U r NIS he D, a NNU a L rental in Beach h arbor c lub, Longboat Key. 2Br/2Ba with views of the bay, laundry and condo amenities include pool, grill, with both bay and beach access. $200 application required. $3,800 month plus first and last month’s rent and $1,000 deposit. call Mike Norman realty, 941-778-6696. 3101 gulf Drive, holmes Beach, fL 34217.
S ea S o N a L re NTa L: aVa IL a BL e a prilDecember. a cross from bay, 2 miles from beaches, fully furnished, laundry, all utilities. 941-773-1552.
M o NT h LY S ea S o N a L re NTa L: a must see! Beach across street. 2Br/2Ba. $7,200/ month. 941-226-4008.
WaTerfroNT aNNUaL reNTaL on prestigious Key r oyale 2B r /2B a , pool, boat lift, two-car garage, completely renovated. $7,500 per month, pets oK. available april 20. call 941-704-7336
for re NT: ho LM e S Beach. Yearly rental.2B r /2B r bungalow (half duplex). five-minute walk to beach. Quiet and private area, no stairs. No animals, please. one parking spot. $1,950/month, first and last required. available May 1. c ontact Paul, 519-807-9426.
LUXU r I o US a NN a M ar I a Island condo for rent. Upgraded granite/stainless kitchen. Incredible water views through floor-length windows. Waterfront patio. Luxury furnishings. first floor, 2B r/B a, king beds. Pool, tennis, walk to beach. Private carport. Monthly rental May-November. owner/renter, flexible terms. 570-239-0431. aMIrent@aol. com
aNNUaL reNTaL: UPDaTeD 2Br/2Ba. Ten minutes to holmes Beach. $2,200/month. No pets/no smoking. 6407 first ave. W., Bradenton. 941-792-6493.
aNNa MarIa 3Br/1Ba historic cottage, half block to gulf beach and one block to Pine avenue shopping and restaurants. available april, $3,000/month and May, $2,800/ month. 941-778-8456. terryaposporos@ gmail.com
WaNTeD To reNT: garage to store antique car april through November. call John, 941730-1085.
ToWNhoUSe: 2Br/3Ba, pool, boat dock, fishing, updated. $1,200/week for april. real estate Mart, 941-356-1456.
WINNI e M cha L e , rea LT or , 941-5046146. rosebay International realty Inc. You need an aggressive and experienced realtor in today’s market! Selling island homes, Sarasota and Bradenton areas. Multi-milliondollar producer! “Selling h omes - Making Dreams come True.”
for SaLe: 1/4 acre waterfront lot: Dock and boat lift. 2520 riverside Drive, east Bradenton. 917-860-1917.
for SaLe: 2Br/2Ba condo. ground-level with bay view. Beautiful view of Bimini Bay. Tucked tranquilly away from the hustle and bustle of island life. open house, 1-4 p.m. Thursday and Saturday, March 9 and 11. 248-765-5207.
rare fIND: PaNoraMIc view of Sarasota Bay golf course. 3Br/2BaQ, pool, spa, large lot, no hoa fees. come and see and make it your palace. $769,000. realtor fred flis, real estate Mart, 941-356-1456.
I SL a ND er arch IV e. Uof f f lorida digital newspaper collection at ufdc.ufl.edu.
The Islander newspaper is Free at Publix Holmes Beach. Just stop by the customer service desk, hold out your hand and say, “Islander, please!” And maybe remind staff you’d like the serve-yourself community newsrack returned to the lobby.
The Islander joins the Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce in welcoming new members, including:
Island Time Boat Tours, Matt and Beth Wright, 941-877-1885; Kim’s Stay & Play Pet Services, Kim Lockwood, 941-705-4988; and Yak Shack Watersports, serving Manatee County parks and preserves, Todd Childers, 941-223-9711.
Meanwhile, Wagner Realty’s Anna Maria Island office is welcoming Ursula Stemm to their sales team.
Stemm has spent her entire life in Florida and is well established in Bradenton. She obtained her real estate sales license in 1983 and started work in Manatee and Sarasota counties in 1995.
She loves helping families find the perfect home.
Her passions also include gardening and shopping for items to add to her vintage collection.
She can be reached at the Wagner office, 2217 Gulf Drive, Bradenton Beach, at 941.545.6426 or ursula@ wagnerrealty.com.
Chamber seeks golf sponsors, players
The AMI Chamber’s golf tournament will swing into action Friday, May 12, at IMG Academy Golf
Club, 4350 El Conquistador Pkwy., Bradenton.
The 24th annual tournament supports scholarships awarded annually by the chamber to graduating high school seniors.
A shotgun start will tee the players off at 12:30 p.m., following registration and lunch.
Players can reserve spots at $125 per golfer or $550 per foursome. The registration fee includes golf, lunch, a gift bag, cart use, prizes, beverages and dinner.
Dinner for nonplayers will be $40.
For more information, contact the chamber at info@chamber.org or 941-778-1541.
Manatee Chamber hosts tourism update
The agency director who brings headline concert acts to Anna Maria Island has headliner billing for a March 15 luncheon.
Elliott Falcione, executive director of the Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau, will talk about tourism at the Manatee Chamber of Commerce’s Headliners Lunch, set for 11:30 a.m. Wednesday, March 15, at Pier 22, 1200 First Ave. W., Bradenton.
The chamber invited people to hear Falcione address the following: “Tourism is big business and a major economic driver for our area. How have we recovered post-pandemic and what can we expect now and in the future.”
Registration is required.
And there is a cost to attend.
For more information, contact the Manatee Chamber of Commerce at 941-748-3411 or info@manateechamber.com.
Bartender holly Krzeminsky pours behind the bar at SaLT Bar & Table, a redo of the old Sharky’s Seagrill at 2519 gulf Drive, Bradenton Beach. SaLT hosted a “soft opening” feb. 28-March 1 and the restaurant threw open the doors for nightly service at 4 p.m. March 3. It’s posh and beachy, bright and shiny new — and promising. general manager/ operations partner Steven Sipos has the reins, with a great team in the kitchen and at the front of the house. for more, call the restaurant at 941-8969897. Islander Photo: Bonner Joy
At check-in desks and cash registers this week on AMI, the focus is on springing into a new season — spring break.
But the Manatee County Tax Collector’s office is still tallying up winter receipts on tourist dollars.
The tax collector March 1 released January 2023 collection numbers for the tourist development tax or bed tax — the 5% tax collected on accommodation rentals of six months or less.
The fourth month of the 2022-23 fiscal year generated $2,857,809 in tourist tax in the county.
The amount is 6.9% more than the $2.671.152.30 generated in January 2022.
While the revenue increased, the percentage difference between 2022 and 2023 is much less than in other months in the 2022-23 fiscal year. In October, tax revenue increased 24.7% compared to October 2021, while November revenue increased 25.5% and December’s increased 28.92%.
Island real estate sales
210 Periwinkle Plaza, Anna Maria, a 1,495 sq ft
3BR/2BA pool home on a 11,252 sq ft lot built in 1959 sold 1-18-2023 for $2,225,000 by Engleberger Trust to WCS Properties LLC, list price was $2,495,000.
319 Tarpon St., Anna Maria, a 2,296 sq ft
4BR/2BA pool home on a 8,250 sq ft lot built in 1960 sold 1/30/2023 by Pelletreau to 319 Tarpon St. LLC for $2,240,000, list price $2,400,000.
306 Bay Blvd., Anna Maria, a 1,444 sq ft 2BR/3BA home on a 5,101 sq ft lot built in 1967sold 1/17/2023 by Starrett to Cote TruSt. for $2,300,000, list price $2,500,000.
601 Gulf Drive N., #212, Bradenton Beach, a 1,282 sq ft 2BR/2BA Gulf Watch condo built in 1984 sold 1/19/2023 by Erfe to AM Gulf LLC for $702,500, list price $750,000.
222 17th St. N, Bradenton Beach, a 1,310 sq ft
2BR/2BA Bradenton Beach Club condo built in 2005
JaNUarY ToUrIST TaX coLLecTIoNS
January 2019: $1,503,672
January 2020: $1,789,434
January 2021: $1,797,602
January 2022: $2,671,152
January 2023: $2,857,809
Source: Manatee county Tax collector
Holmes Beach topped collections on Anna Maria Island in January, generating $651,458, about 22.8% of the countywide total.
Anna Maria accounted for about 8.86% of the collections, bringing in $253,282, and Bradenton Beach generated $132,778 or 4.65% of the total.
Some other numbers for January:
• Unincorporated Manatee County generated $1,308,357 or 45.78% of the total;
• Bradenton generated $244,175 or 8.54% of the
sold 2/9/2023 by Prater to BBH LLC for $800,000, list price $860,000.
6400 Flotilla Drive, #75, Holmes Beach, a 985 sq ft 2BR/2BA Westbay Point & Moorings condo built in 1978 sold 2/10/2023 by Martin to Moog for $620,000, list price $649,000.
3702 Sixth Ave., Holmes Beach, a 1,047 sq ft
2BR/2BA Beach View condo built in 1984 sold
1/6/2023 by Fish Outa Water LLC to Daggett for $635,000, list price $690,000.
438 62nd St., Holmes Beach, a 1,141 sq dt 2BR/2BA home on a 4,278 sq ft lot built in 1971 sold 2/2/2023 by Ruhin to Heintz Trust for $775,000, list price $775,000.
Compiled by Island Real Estate. IRE professionals can be reached at 941-778-6066, islandreal.com.
total;
• Longboat Key generated $260,204 or 9.10%;
• Palmetto generated $7,906 or 0.27%.
The collection fee or commission on the tax is 3%, for a net collection in January of $2,772,075.
Under state law, resort tax revenues must be used to boost and develop tourism.
In Manatee County, TDT revenue is used to fund the Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau and the Bradenton Area Convention Center and tourism-related entities such as Realize Bradenton and the Pittsburgh Pirates, as well as support projects, such as island beach renourishment and construction of new amenities, including the Anna Maria City Pier.
The TDC recommends how to spend the money to the county commission.
The February numbers will be released in early April and the TDC will meet next at 9 a.m. Monday, April 24, at the county administration building, 1112 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton.
Thursday, March 9
Neff THIS WEEK11:30 a.m. — Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce networking lunch — menu offerings include grouper sandwiches and burgers — Annie’s Bait and Tackle, 4334 127th St W., Cortez. Fee applies. Information: 941-778-1541.
Wednesday, March 15
11:30 a.m. — Manatee Chamber of Commerce luncheon on tourism at the Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau, Pier 22, 1200 First Ave. W., Bradenton. Fee applies. Information: 941748-3411.
SAVE THE DATES
March 23, 5-7 p.m., AMI Chamber business mixer with light bites and scholarship awards, LaPensee Plumbing, Holmes Beach. March 28, noon, Manatee Chamber Day at the Ballpark, LECOM Park, Bradenton.
May 12, 11:30 a.m., AMI Chamber Golf Tournament, IMG Academy Golf Club, Bradenton.
