The Islander Newspaper E-Edition: Wednesday, Oct. 26, 2022

AME-PTO Fall Fest brings the fun

Hb commissioner subject of perjury complaint

islander staff reports

The Manatee County Sheriff’s Offi ce opened an investigation Oct. 21 into a “protected address” request from Holmes Beach Commissioner Jayne Christenson to the supervisor of elections.

Christenson, who filed qualification papers with the Manatee County Supervisor of Elections Office to run for reelection, announced her withdrawal Oct. 11 from a three-way race for two seats.

anna maria elementary students and teachers parade Oct. 22 with family and friends in anna maria, circling the center of anna maria island to kick off the ame Parentteacher Organization fall festival. islander Photo: courtesy meghann Bankert rigHt: ame third-grade “alien” Brandon Sato shows off his costume Oct. 22 during the ame-PtO fall festival. more, page 13. islander

Photo: Brook morrison

Murphy heads into 5th term

By Lisa neff islander editor

Dan Murphy is a roll-up the sleeves kind of mayor.

And without opposition in his quest for reelection, he’s returning to the Anna Mayor leadership post for a fifth two-year term of work.

Murphy was first elected in 2014 and was then elected without opposition in 2016, 2018 and 2020.

Murphy cited multiple reasons for a possible lack of opposition and said he would welcome greater participation in the process: “People tend to shy away from politics. It’s a shame that they do, there are so many talented people among us in our community who could step up and make major contributions to our overall quality of life.”

Titsworth takes 3rd term

By Lisa neff islander editor

Judy Titsworth is set to take her third oath of office as mayor.

Facing no challenger in the Nov. 8 election, Titsworth is automatically reelected to a third two year-term in the mayor’s office.

“I do feel the citizens are pleased with the direction of the city,” Titsworth told The Islander Oct. 17.

Titsworth, who grew up on AMI, served as city commissioner 2012-18 and has served as mayor since 2018.

The Islander checked in with the mayor Oct. 17 for a Q&A.

The Islander: If you had faced a challenger, what might you have used for a campaign slogan?

As of Oct. 24, she had not submitted the required letter withdrawing from the race to the SOE.

Meanwhile, her withdrawal announcement led to a review of her candidate filings by The Islander and others, including Dan Diggins, one of two people who qualified to run against Christenson on the Nov. 8 ballot.

Diggins contacted the MCSO Oct. 21 and requested an investigation of Christenson’s request for privacy for her home address.

Diggins said he asked the MCSO, “Could you investigate this thing. It appears Jayne Christenson has perjured herself.”

Look for 2 new faces on HB commission

By ryan Paice and Kane Kaiman islander reporters

Voters in Holmes Beach will get ballots that include a contest for Holmes Beach commission, but the race is in limbo leading up to Election Day.

diggins Kerchner

Incumbent Commissioner Jayne Christenson announced Oct. 11 she was withdrawing, leaving Greg Kerchner and Daniel Diggins in the running for two seats.

Christenson’s term is expiring, as is that of incumbent Kim Rash, who did not seek reelection.

Christenson, as of Oct. 21, had not filed official turn tO ElEct am maYor, Page 4 turn tO ElEct hb maYor, Page 5

murphy

titsworth

turn tO complaint,

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paperwork to withdraw her candidacy. When she does, Kerchner and Diggins automatically win the two seats for two-year terms.

Who are they?

Greg Kerchner

Kerchner purchased property in Holmes Beach in 2014 and moved to the city in 2017, where he rented before construction on his home finished in 2018.

“I was in the race to win it, obviously, and now I’ve won it,” Kerchner said Oct. 13. “Unfortunately, it’s by default. The voters didn’t get a choice.”

“We live in a great democracy and it’d be good if the voters always had a choice. … It would sure be nice if going forward more residents on the island would want to get involved in city government and possibly run for office,” he added.

Kerchner said Sept. 30 that he worked as a pro cess improvement engineer, using data to determine changes to maximize processes’ efficiency, for General Electric and Lockheed Martin.

He said his professional history gave him plenty of experience working with teams, which he said helped in his role as chair of the city’s planning commission since 2019.

During his time leading the board, the group revised the city’s comprehensive plan.

“I’ve enjoyed it and we’ve gotten a lot done,” Kerchner said. “From what I learned on the planning commission … I just thought I could step up my game a little bit and run for city commissioner.”

Kerchner’s campaign slogan is “Guiding growth and preserving paradise” because he views growth on the island as inevitable but said it does not need to negatively impact residents.

He added that he supports the city’s park-by-per mit system and called on Manatee County to pursue additional parking from the other island cities, not just Holmes Beach.

He said he’d like the county to purchase island land to create additional parking.

Daniel Diggins

Diggins told The Islander Oct. 14 he was “quite surprised” Christenson dropped out of the race and disappointed about winning by default.

He said his top priority as an incoming commis sioner is to repair the relationship between city and county government which has “gone sideways,” creat ing an unproductive and untenable situation.

He said Sept. 30 he has worked as a commercial pilot, aircraft controller and engineer, as well as inves tigated aircraft accidents out of Washington, D.C. Diggins, who previously lived in Maryland and Virginia, spent time in Afghanistan advising the U.S. military on aviation matters.

While on home leave in 2010, Diggins visited Anna Maria Island at his stepdaughter’s recommen dation and, soon after in 2011, he and his wife made the move to Holmes Beach.

Diggins challenged former Commissioner Marvin Grossman for appointment to a commission seat in 2016, when Grossman failed to qualify for reelec tion.

Grossman won reappointment over Diggins, who had not served in public office.

Diggins said he then worked as a contractor on a couple of overseas assignments in Afghanistan and Africa but decided in June to retire and spend more time with family.

“I’m just going to sit around and enjoy my grand babies and enjoy golf,” he said.

Diggins said the decision also opened his sched ule so he could become more involved on the city level.

He said, having witnessed “large government” spending in D.C., he’d like to reduce the millage rate in future fiscal years.

Diggins added that he supports the park-by-per mit system but would push the city to better mark parking spaces and/or set up an application to notify people when spots are available.

Commissioners earn $7,819.92 annually.

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Christenson’s home address is blacked out on the candidate forms she filed at the SOE since June, when she submitted a public records exemption request.

On a Department of State form she submitted to the elections office, Christenson checked the status box “current” and also checked that she is eligible for address protection under the category “human resource, labor relations, or employee relations director, assistant director, manager or assistant manager of any local government agency or water management district.”

However, in her statement of financial interest, Christenson says she’s employed with AbbVie, which is involved in the research and manufacturing of phar maceuticals.

On an affidavit with the SOE, Christenson lists her occupation as sales management.

And on her LinkedIn profile, Christenson’s title is “federal account manager, (VA & DoD) specialty pharmaceuticals” for AbbVie.

The Islander filed a records request for the MCSO complaint and received a largely redacted report Oct. 24 that only named the reporting officer.

The report stated an individual “came to the MCSO to file a report involving someone having illegitimately completed a public records exemption request, and get ting it approved by the Manatee County Supervisor of Elections.”

The Islander had asked the SOE about the form before the complaint filing with the MCSO.

“When we receive a Public Records Exemption Request form, it is reviewed to make sure it is com plete,” Scott Farrington, assistant supervisor with the elections office wrote in an email Oct. 17. “We then look the voter up and check to make sure the infor mation matches what is on file. Then mark the voter record as ëAddress Protected.’”

He added, “It is taken at face value because we do

christenson

Mote outreach center plans for city pier near permit stage

By Lisa neff islander editor

Anna Maria officials are almost down to the nuts and bolts for a marine ourtreach center on the city pier.

In addition to those nuts and bolts, they’re focused on ceiling tiles, electrical panels, backup generators and other details as they review preliminary technical plans from Mote Marine Laboratory.

Earlier this month, Mote met the deadline imposed by the city and submitted plans to renovate a space on the T-end of the Anna Maria City Pier for an educational outreach center.

Mayor Dan Murphy said Mote’s plans include multiple attractions, including a microscope station, a touch-tank, a coloring and crafts section and a fish ID exhibit where a pier angler might check their catch.

A week after Mote met the city’s Oct. 13 deadline for the preliminary plans, Anna Maria building official David Gilson and city planner Ashley Austin had reviewed the documents from the Schimberg Group.

They presented their findings Oct. 20 to city commissioners and the mayor. No action was taken at the meeting.

“They’re very, very close to what would be acceptable and permittable,” Gilson said of Mote’s plans. He said he was sending notes to Mote with a focus on materials. For example, the city, as the owner of the property, wants stainless steel hardware used not just

complaint cOntinued frOm Page 1 not have a method to verify the accuracy and the statute does not require the voter to provide any proof.”

The notarized Department of State exemption form includes a statement that “the requestor hereby swears or affirms, under penalty of perjury, that the information contained in the foregoing public record exemption form is true and correct.”

Conviction of a perjury charge in Florida can result in up to five years in prison. The offense is classified as a third-degree felony.

Christenson’s residency in Holmes Beach previ-

“corrosion-resistant” materials.

Another change would involve installing a drywall ceiling instead of standard ceiling tile.

“We want to ensure quality,” Murphy said.

The next steps involve Mote creating final plans,

followed by a staff review, a vote by the commission and the issuance of a permit for the build-out.

“Once that permit is issued, a set of deadlines kicks in,” Murphy said. “We will hold them to that.”

Deadlines for the project require a construction start within seven days of permitting and an application for a certificate of occupancy within 12 weeks of receiving permits.

An opening of the center would be within four weeks of the issuance of a certificate of occupancy.

The city wants an opening by next March.

Mote agreed in September 2021 to lease the empty 1,800-square-foot shell on the pier after the city shifted away from leasing the space for a restaurant.

The installation of the center, will be funded with $500,000 in county tourist development money and Mote paying any extra expenses.

Mote will pay the operating costs for the center.

The next commission meeting will be at 6 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 27, at city hall, 10005 Gulf Drive.

The agenda and meeting materials can be found online at cityofannamaria.com.

Q&A 102622

The Islander poll

Last week’s question

ously was questioned, as she owns a home in Bradenton and her Holmes Beach property which she owns with her mother — is registered as a vacation rental home.

Christenson did not respond to The Islander’s Oct. 21 email and phone call for comment.

Diggins told The Islander in a text message on the subject of Christenson’s address exemption: “I’m a black-and-white guy and have little tolerance of breaking laws.”

Lisa Neff, Kane Kaiman and Bonner Joy contributed to this report.

By Lisa neff

Time for a Halloween costume! Store-bought or homemade?

15%. Store-bought.

85%. Homemade. This week’s question

Daylight saving time ends Nov. 6. Do you prefer to …

A. Fall back.

B. Spring ahead.

C. Stay on daylight saving time.

D. Stay off daylight saving time.

E. I’m never on time anyway.

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

anna maria building official david gilson reviews mote marine Laboratory plans for an educational center at the anna maria city Pier during the Oct. 20 city meeting at city hall. islander Photo: Lisa neff

BB commissioners get campaign-free run, voters face charter options

By robert anderson islander reporter

Bradenton Beach Commissioners Ralph Cole and Marilyn Maro are uncontested for their seats in the November election.

“I’ve lived here for 40 years. When I moved here Mayor Connick was the mayor. I started my business up with the Pierolas,” Cole said, referring to the late Dick Connick and Katie Pierola and her family — then owners of the Catalina motel in Bradenton Beach.

ness springs from his love of sailing.

He said one issue facing the city is a shrinking population of full-time residents due to the increase in short-term rentals.

“We have a hard time finding good people to run who will spend our tax dollars in good ways. A lot of people won’t do something for nothing. They won’t volunteer their time and in this job that is essentially what you’re doing.”

A commissioner receives $400 a month stipend.

people sitting in my chair at the salon. I thought about what I’ve heard and decided I would like to try and help,” Maro told The Islander in 2016.

The commissioner did not respond to requests from The Islander for an interview.

While Maro and Cole are uncontested, Maro’s ability to retain her office will be determined at the polls, as voters will decide a proposed charter amendment to eliminate term limits.

Elected officials in Bradenton Beach serve twoyear terms with a limit of three consecutive terms.

Pierola was mayor for three terms and Cole said his relationship with her helped fuel his interest in politics.

maro

cole

“I helped her do her campaigns, do all the signs and stuff like that. I took all the pictures she needed for the beach renourishments and I went to all the meetings with her.”

Cole also drew inspiration from his father, Gail, who served a term as mayor of Bradenton Beach.

Cole moved from Fort Wayne, Indiana, with family and started Coastal Watersports, 1301 Gulf Drive N., Bradenton Beach, to teach people how to sail. He also rents personal watercraft and paddleboards. His busi-

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As he readied for another term, the mayor joined an Oct. 18 Islander Q&A.

The Islander: What do you see as the most important issue facing the city?

Dan Murphy: The continual erosion of home rule. This impacts almost everything our city is able to offer our residents.

At the forefront are the continual attempts to persuade the Legislature to take away our ability to locally regulate the vacation rental industry. Almost 70% of the dwellings in our city are vacation rentals. Local regulation ensures that our full-time residents’ quality

Cole said one job he’d like to see taken care of in his next term is buried utilities.

Cole has served three nonconsecutive terms as a commissioner. He was elected in 2015 for Ward 3, appointed to a one-year term in 2017, elected in 2018 and again in 2020.

He had lost his bid for reelection in 2017 and was appointed by the commission to fill the seat vacated by John Chappie when he was elected mayor.

Commissioner Marilyn Maro has lived on the island for more than 18 years, according to the city website. She’s a former hair stylist who serves as Ward 2 commissioner.

“I used to hear about the problems in my city from

of life concerns are not overrun by any single industry.

But it goes even further than vacation rentals. Subtle changes in limiting local government’s ability to do what is best for their community permeate every legislative session — from taking away our building codes, limiting our ability to protect our tree canopy and even providing an incentive for a business to sue any city passing a regulatory ordinance!

Public awareness of the seriousness of this issue is key if we are to stop this trend.

We have two approaches to address the threats:

Maro has served as Ward 2 commissioner for three consecutive terms. She was appointed to a two-year term in 2016 and elected in 2018 and again in 2020.

On Nov. 8, when voters decide whether to eliminate term limits, they’ll also decide whether they’re reelecting Maro.

If the vote for the elimination of term limits does not go through, Maro will not be able to remain an elected official.

The ballot contains four other charter changes proposed by a review committee and recommended by city commission.

There are 683 registered voters and the polling place on Election Day is the volunteer fire hall, 201 Second St. N.

• HomeRuleFL.com, our website, helps the public know the issues and gives them an effective and easy avenue to send an email voicing their concern. …

• Our lobbyist provides Anna Maria direct access to the Legislature and the governor’s office so that we can advise them of the ramifications of proposed legislation. …

The Islander: What do you see as the most important capital improvement project for the city?

DM: We have three core capital projects that we are funding this year and next: Stormwater drainage improvements, paving our roads, Reimagining Pine Ave.

Although all three are important, the one with the biggest impact is Reimagining Pine Ave. Our main thoroughfare is in dire need of a redo and now is the time for us to get that done.

The Islander: The completion of the new pier seems a milestone in your history as mayor. How often do you get out to the pier? Do you have a favorite spot?

DM: Although the historic city pier was a massive effort, I’ve never considered it my milestone. The pier was a team effort all the way through, with our commission, our residents and our staff, along with the fi nancial assistance from the state, county and the TDC, all playing vital roles in building the new pier.

As to getting out on the pier and my favorite spot, I try to take a stroll on our pier once a week.

Every spot out there has a fantastic view! If I had a favorite spot, it would be any seat where I could have a cold beer and hear Mike Sales singing “Trouble Can’t Swim.”

The Islander: When you look ahead two years, what do you hope to have accomplished as mayor?

DM: This may well be my last term in office.

During these next two years our city commission and the mayor’s office need to provide Anna Maria with the very best infrastructure in the state.

That means a city with little to no stormwater drainage issues, freshly paved streets, safe and userfriendly thoroughfares, along with clean, calm and inviting residential neighborhoods.

All of this is already within our grasp, it will just require a strong team effort to put the finishing touches on what is already a great place to live.

The Islander: Do you have a message you’d like to share with the voters?

DM: Two messages: Please, step up and serve, Anna Maria needs your talent now more than ever.

Keep your eye on the attempts to erode home rule. Take action, visit HomeRuleFL.com.

The Anna Maria mayor is paid $19,600 annually.

Judy Titsworth: Proven leadership, strength and passion.

The Islander: What do you see as the most important issue facing the city? And how do you plan to address the issue in your next term?

JT: Resiliency. We are on the right track with our current staffing and the capital improvement projects that we have in construction and in design. Grant funding from the state and federal government will continue to be necessary to address climate change. We will continue to work with our engineers to identify projects in priority order and seek the necessary funding.

The Islander: What’s the most important capital improvement project to tackle?

JT: I am so pleased that we are under construction with the City Center project, as this will address the lack of bike lanes, sidewalks and safe crosswalks.

This improvement has been needed for many years.

We hope to have the bulk of this project completed prior to the onset of our busy tourism season.

The next big improvement will be the complete streets project on Gulf Drive.

The Islander: The city has made a bold effort to address environmental issues at the local level. You grew up on AMI. What are the environmental concerns you have for the island.

JT: The quality of our water. I grew up swimming in the bay for hours each day. The gradual and more recent magnified decline in water quality of our bays and the reduction in sea life is a direct result of nitrogen loads, the loss of mangroves due to over development, sewer and contaminated water discharges and stormwater runoff.

We all need to do our part and reduce the amount of pesticides and fertilizers used on our landscaping and lawns.

We need to use native plants and Florida-friendly landscaping practices and consider the benefits in rain gardens. The city is leading the way in adding infiltration systems … and requiring new construction to install infiltration and swales in the perimeters of the properties. This greatly reduces the impacts of contaminated stormwater runoff into our waterways.

We can make a difference but it will take everyone. …

The Islander: When you look ahead two, what do you hope to have accomplished as mayor?

JT: Preserved the quality of life for all. After all, that is what really matters at the end of the day.

It isn’t about how many people or cars you can squeeze onto this island. It is about what is their experience going to be like when they get here.

Anna Maria Island is a very special place. It is my job to make sure it stays that way.

The Islander: Do you have a message you’d like to share with the voters?

JT: There has never been a more important time to vote. Support truth. Support kindness. Support women’s rights.

The HB mayor’s salary is $27,120 annually.

2 AM commissioners returning to seats

By ryan Paice islander reporter

Two incumbent Anna Maria city commissioners will remain in their seats for another two years.

No one qualified to challenge Commissioners Deanie Sebring and Mark Short in the Nov. 8 general election, allowing the pair to be sworn into new twoyear terms as their current terms expire.

So, who are they?

Doris “Deanie” Sebring was raised in Lafayette, Louisiana, and has a broad work history.

Sebring helped run her father’s interior design store in Louisiana, worked as the general manager of an auto dealership in California, then created and sold a company that helped reunite people with their lost keys in Florida.

She moved to Anna Maria in 2014.

By 2017, Sebring wrote a children’s book, “Skip and Deanie’s Flying Bike Trip,” which is based on the imaginary adventures of herself and her real-life diabetic alert dog, Skip.

Sebring was appointed by commission vote in November 2020 to serve a two-year term and now will serve a second full term.

Sebring told The Islander Sept. 22 her main goal as commissioner is to improve pedestrian and biker safety. She said she was disappointed in the commission’s decision in March not to eliminate parallel parking on Pine Avenue in favor of wider sidewalks and bicycle lanes.

She said she has been hit by motorists twice, including once on Pine Avenue, while riding her bike on the road.

“I’ve actually never been to a beach community you don’t really have sidewalks that continue, you have no bike lanes and you have all this parallel parking down on a main, busy drag where every single child and family ride a bike,” Sebring said.

Overall, Sebring called her first term as commissioner a “huge” learning experience.

“I do like the fact that I understand and am still

learning, about how our little city works,” she said.

Mark Short became a full-time resident of Anna Maria in 2014 after vacationing on the island since 1984. He said his wife of 38 years, a Bradenton native, had frequented the island for even longer.

“So when it got time to start thinking about retirement, we pretty much knew where we wanted to end up,”

Short told The Islander Sept. 21.

Before retirement, Short worked out of Detroit for the international accounting consultancy firm Ernst & Young on mergers and acquisitions, often in the automotive industry.

On the island, Short became a member of the Center of Anna Maria Island’s finance committee in 2018, a member of the Key Royale Club — though he said he doesn’t play enough golf — and regularly plays bocce with a group of friends.

Short was appointed to the commission in September 2019 on the heels of Brian Seymour’s resignation to fill Seymour’s remaining term. He was elected without contest to his first full term on the dais in 2020 and in November will embark on his second full two-year term.

Short said his first years on the commission have been a learning experience.

“I never really appreciated what really has to happen to make a city function,” he said. “Even a city as relatively small as the city of Anna Maria. … It’s not easy.”

Short said he was looking forward to the city completing long-discussed improvements on Pine Avenue and opening a proposed Mote Marine Laboratory educational outreach center at the T-end of the city pier.

However, he said he wanted to continue exploring options to expand parking in the city, especially near the pier and on Pine Avenue.

In addition to early voting and vote-by-mail, Anna Maria residents can vote at the poll 7 a.m.-7 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 8, at precinct 301, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave.

There were 940 registered voters in Anna Maria as of Oct. 6, according to the SEO.

Voters face county biz development referendum

“Tax” is on the Nov. 8 general election ballot.

Voters will decide whether to extend for another 10 years authorization for Manatee County commissioners to grant property tax exemptions to new or expanding businesses expected to create full-time jobs in the county.

Commissioners, when they approved a consent agenda at a March meeting, voted to place the ques-

tion on the ballot, seeking to continue the economic development program that voters first approved by referendum in 2013.

The current ad valorem exemptions expire June 17, 2023.

A simple majority vote is needed to pass the referendum.

— Lisa neff

at islander.org

Ready holidayfor hustle?

Advertisers: Ready for the holidays on AMI? Improve your odds of success and reach 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.

Short

Sebring

It’s that witchy time

Finally, it’s starting to feel like we’re solidly on the way back from the lows of the pandemic.

Yes, we had our highs. We saw tourism rise as people looked for safe places to go in the sunshine and Anna Maria Island definitely put on a shine.

Now we’re looking eye to eye at November and a near normal season. Snowbirds — the few that remain and spend the peak months from October to April on AMI — are either here or on their way.

Welcome back winter friends.

But mostly, we’ve settled into the routine of weekly visitors who are attracted to the booming vacation rental homes.

The school held its fall festival and except for a new location, the community center, it seemed like the same sort of fun as in years past. Parade! Check. Games and costume contest! Check. Haunted house! Check. Bounce house! Check. Bake sale! You bet!

Once again, fall fest was a fun affair.

Next we’ll see the trail of treats for kids to collect candy at island businesses and some trunk-or-treat events to add to the safe Halloween activities for young ones. All as it has been for many years.

The ongoing road work and resulting traffic congestion in Holmes Beach adds a layer of challenge to anyone headed to the “downtown” area, visiting businesses or looking for lunch — or just passing through on the way to and from Anna Maria.

It’s not just a Halloween nightmare.

It’s a challenge of nerves when you arrive at a four-way stop and no one knows who goes next. And the work is planned to go on through the holidays.

Meanwhile, the contractor appears to be stretched thin with resources directed to the hurricane-devastated areas and some screwups — broken utility lines.

All I want for Christmas is to open the road!

But before that happens, we have an election.

And I hope you will join me in voting like your life depends on it — because the lives of young women who find themselves in the dire situation of needing an abortion depend very much on our votes.

Please, vote with me for state and federal candidates who promise to return abortion rights. Women’s rights. Women’s choice.

And, while we wait to see the outcome of the Holmes Beach election — and the promised withdrawal of the candidate who doesn’t want to live here and apparently committed perjury to shield her address — we’re counting on you to visit the polls Nov. 8.

Meanwhile, the witches are ready to ride.

— Bonner Joy, news@islander.org

Opinion

Surfrider success

Surfrider and it’s many volunteers turned out in force to help the Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce reduce single-use plastics, landfill waste and also raise awareness on how to keep our Gulf of Mexico and bay waters clean.

Along with educating visitors about ocean-friendly restaurants and gardens, Surfrider volunteers managed to reduce waste to the landfill by half.

The recycled material collected equaled the waste from the event.

Very impressive.

Surfrider would like to thank the chamber for the opportunity to participate at Bayfest and spread the message to island residents and visitors about the effects of human waste on our coastal waters.

Suncoast Surfrider plans to host more cleanups and you can participate by calling 941-504-7821.

Let’s keep our water clean.

William H. Romberger, Anna Maria

To clarify

My purpose in writing is to clarify facts in response to misinformation or misunderstanding by some regarding accounting principles relevant to the Holmes Beach city budget.

Here are the facts.

• The $25,436,242 budget includes reserves — think of reserves as the city’s savings account — totaling $12,695,699.

Subtracting $12,695,699 from the total budget equals $12,740,543 in operating revenue, including taxes, fees and grants.

• $12,740,534 in total operating revenue minus $6,325,606 in ad valorem revenue and stormwater assessment of $850,000 leaves $6,414,937 for all other taxes, including motor fuel, utilities, fees and grants.

• $12,740,543 for projected total operating revenue minus $11,981,007 for projected total operating expenses equals $759,536 in revenue over expense.

If this is achieved, we can reduce the future millage or could transfer funds to any inadequate reserve.

• $4,183,296 in total grants for 2023; $5,475,606 in total property taxes.

So total grants achieved by staff equals 76% of property taxes levied.

• $2,311,315 for 2023 stormwater projects minus $850,000 in taxpayer assessments leaves $1,461,315 for state and federal funding.

In conclusion, Holmes Beach levies taxes and assessments totaling $6,325,606, 25% of the figure identified as the total budget inclusive of reserves.

Due to solid management of our resources, cost containment measures, prevailing in all 60 Bert Harris cases, we reduced the millage from 2.25% to 2.07%, an 8% decrease.

The increased property tax revenue for 2023 is attributable to increased valuations, determined by Manatee County.

Approximately 12%-13% of our real estate tax bill is attributable to Holmes Beach.

Over the past 20 years Holmes Beach decreased it’s millage five times: 2004, 2006, 2007, 2008 and 2023. Increases began in 2016 when it was determined that the prior decreases exhausted reserves, thus, increases were necessary to shore up reserve deficiencies.

Hopefully this serves to clarify the budget.

Holmes Beach Commissioner Terry Schaefer

Editor’s note: The decrease in millage for 2022-23 and previous years did not amount to tax cuts. According to Florida statutes, the millage rate must produce the same revenue as the previous year, called the rollback rate, to qualify as a tax cut.

Looking back

At the polls

anna maria mayor ernie cagnina visits the city’s polling place along with city clerk mary H. tebbetts and commissioner John chamberlain on election day in february 1978.

10&20 years ago

From the Oct. 23, 2002, issue

• Anna Maria’s city attorney told commissioners a 1995 ordinance increasing the occupational license tax likely was invalid because the vote was after a state-imposed deadline of October 1995.

• Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch counted only 93 hatchlings for the entire 2002 nesting season, the lowest number in three years.

• The Florida Department of Environmental Protection said no permit was issued to Galati Marine in Anna Maria to construct docks for deepdraft boats. A nearby property owner was seeking a public hearing, claiming the new docks would interfere with his marina.

From the Oct. 24, 2012, issue

• U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and a state agency that polices insurance fraud raided construction sites in Holmes Beach, arresting one worker.

• Local officials reopened a new and improved Island Library with staff, friends and volunteers.

“It’s very exciting that the county continues to believe in a free library system,” said Bradenton Councilwoman Marianne Barnebey.

• Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch reported a record-breaking year, with more than 360 sea turtle nests — producing 12,481 hatchlings. However, Tropical Storm Debby destroyed about 60 nests.

— Lisa neff

Casting ballots

Bradenton Beach voters visit their precinct polling place in January 1981. the next election will be the nov. 8 midterms. Polls will be open 7 a.m.-7 p.m. for tuesday balloting. islander Photos: manatee county Public Library System

find the islander dating to november 1992 online at the uoff digital newspaper collection at ufdc.ufl.edu.

Print Your Own Memories

BB hears from residents, businesses on residential-business rezone pitch

By robert anderson islander reporter

Bradenton Beach commissioners heard arguments and shared opinions Oct. 20 over a staff-proposed ordinance to rezone the Azure Shores neighborhood.

The proposed ordinance would rezone 2.53 acres between Second Street North and Cortez Road and between Gulf Drive North and Highland Avenue from Residential-3 to Mixed zoning. Staff has said the rezone is needed to correct inconsistencies between the zoning map and the future land use map component of the comprehensive plan.

Brooks O’Hara, real estate and facilities director for the chiles Hospitality group, speaks during an Oct. 20 meeting at city hall. ed chiles owns and operates the Beach House restaurant and parking lots.

A comp plan provides guidance for growth through goals, objectives and policies. A permit, land use or zoning decision must be consistent with the comprehensive plan.

Zoning is how a city implements a comp plan. Zoning establishes permitted and prohibited uses, as well as regulations for setbacks, building heights, subdivisions of land, fences and signs. Zoning exists to protect neighborhoods.

The properties proposed for rezoning include more than 20 residential home lots, the Oma’s Pizza and Italian Restaurant property at 201 Gulf Drive N. and vacant lots owned by the corporate entity of the Beach House Restaurant that are used for parking at the corners of Third Street North and Gulf Drive North and Third Street North and Highland Avenue.

Commissioners Oct. 20 heard from resident Evelyn Stob, whose home is situated between the two lots owned by the Beach House along Third Street.

Stob said that if the zoning is changed to mixed use, an investor could decide to build a combination business with residences and her neighborhood would suddenly be subjected to an increase in traffic and other business-associated problems that would diminish the quality of life in a residential area.

Stob questioned the need to change to MXD and said owner Ed Chiles could make a special request

azure Shores resident evelyn Stob addresses city commissioners, objecting to a possible rezone for her neighborhood. islander Photos: robert anderson

think I am a little upset with him for trying to not let us do what’s best for the community and I guess he’s got a right to worry about his own business but I think he ought to be thinking about the rest of Bradenton Beach and their needs.”

Vosburgh continued, “I would be very upset and so would the rest of us if, all of a sudden, they changed the zoning for your house or my house to commercial. I would be against that.”

“It’s been zoned like this for a long time,” said Commissioner Ralph Cole “I don’t see why we would go out of our way to change it. If you leave it the way

PLeaSe, See bb rEZonE, neXt Page

under the R-3 designation for commercial development without affecting residents.

“Only one person is causing this grief. One property owner or possibly the owner of two pieces of property. Why do the 22 others have to go through this massive change when we purchased it knowing it was an R-3?” Stob said.

According to city planner Luis Serna, standalone parking is allowed under R-3 but should the Beach House/Chiles pursue other commercial projects, they might be limited by restrictions for residentially zoned lots. For example, R-3 allows for 35% lot usage, whereas MXD allows for a bigger building footprint of up to 70% lot usage.

Brooks O’Hara, real estate and facilities director for the Chiles Hospitality Group, read a prepared statement at the meeting.

“We strongly support the rezoning of the property, so it provides the owners the right to use their property as they see fit within the confines of the future land use map and confines of city code,” O’Hara said. “We strongly urge you to support this rezoning to mixed use. We reserve the right to protect our rights legally and could consider more restrictive zoning as a taking.

The Florida’s Bert J. Harris Jr. Private Property Rights Protection Act of 1995 provides a process for property owners to seek relief when their property is adversely affected by government action.

Under the act, a claim exists if a governmental entity “inordinately burdens an existing use of real property or a vested right to a specific use of real property.”

If a recommendation devalues a property, an owner can claim a “taking.”

Commissioner Jan Vosburgh made her feelings known about the letter.

“I like Ed Chiles a lot, he was very good to me when I was running for commission,” she said. “But I

Meetings

Anna Maria City

Oct. 27, 6 p.m., commission.

Nov. 10, 2 p.m., commission.

By Lisa neff

Nov. 11, 1 p.m., Veterans Day Old Soldiers and Sailors Parade and Ceremony, Pine Avenue.

Anna Maria City Hall, 10005 Gulf Drive, 941708-6130, cityofannamaria.com.

Bradenton Beach

Nov. 2, 9:30 a.m., CRA.

Nov. 2, 2 p.m., ScenicWAVES.

Nov. 3, 6 p.m., commission.

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

Holmes Beach

Oct. 26, 9 a.m., clean water.

Oct. 27, 11 a.m., police retirement.

Nov. 2, 10 a.m., parks and beautification. Nov. 2, 5 p.m., planning.

Holmes Beach City Hall, 5801 Marina Drive, 941708-5800, holmesbeachfl.org.

West Manatee Fire Rescue

Nov, 5, 11 a.m.-2 p.m., open house, Station 1, 407 67th St. W., Bradenton.

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

Manatee County

Nov. 3, 9 a.m., commission. CANCELED County administration building, 1112 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton, 941-748-4501, mymanatee.org.

Also of interest

Nov. 4, 9 a.m., tourist development council, Bradenton City Hall, 101 12th St. W., Bradenton. Nov. 8 is Election Day nationwide. Nov. 11, Veterans Day. Most government offices will be closed.

Send meeting notices to news@islander.org.

Located at Sunny Shores

Cortez

Turn north from Cortez Road into Sunny Shores at 115th Street West, turn left at first STOP sign. 11703 40th Ave. W. • Bradenton 941-794-1226

3 seats, 1 fire district race on November ballot

Three West Manatee Fire Rescue District commission seats are up for reelection Nov. 8 but there’s only a contest for one seat.

Current commissioners are Chair Larry Jennis in Seat 1, George Harris in Seat 2, Al Robinson in Seat 3, David Bishop Jr. in Seat 4 and Robert Bennett in Seat 5.

In District 4, incumbent David Bishop Jr. faces a challenge Nov. 8 on the districtwide ballot from Roger Morrow.

Harris is not on the ballot in District 2, and the uncontested seat will automatically go to Derrick Warner.

In District 3, Robinson did not seek reelection and

bb rEZonE cOntinued frOm Page 8

it is and deal with each situation as it comes, I think you’re in a better position.”

Commissioner Jake Spooner said the push for higher impact commercial developments might lead to issues for residents.

“To me this area is already congested and parking issues (exist) that we are trying to deal with,” he said. “It would just create a nightmare, a nightmare for the neighbors in this area, the traffic backups. I just see it being an issue. My first inclination is to just change the comprehensive plan or the future land use map to match what we have going on here.”

Mayor John Chappie said, “The direction of this city was pretty clear when we created the CRA. It was to try and concentrate the commercial areas on Bridge Street and Third and First streets and then, of course, what we have along Gulf Drive.”

Chappie said the plan continues to be for transient and residential communities surrounding the commercial areas to support businesses.

City attorney Ricinda Perry reviewed the zoning documents for the commission.

“By way of land use, your structure of your comp plan is the highest authority, then your land development code,” said Perry.

William “Billy” Burke will be automatically elected.

Neither Bishop nor Morrow responded to requests for an interview from The Islander.

The commissioners serve four-year terms and work with WMFR administrators to create policy, a budget and manage the district.

The district includes all of Anna Maria Island, Cortez and areas of the west side of unincorporated Manatee County.

The deadline to request a vote by mail ballot is 5 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 29.

Election Day is Tuesday, Nov. 8, with polling 7 a.m.-7 p.m.

— robert anderson

Open house at WMFR

WMFR will host an open house 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 5, at Station 1, 407 67th St. W., Bradenton.

The event will include station tours, a chance to met firefighters and check out their equipment up close, children’s activities, DJ music and hot dogs, pizza and beverages for lunch.

For more information, call WMFR at 941- 7611555.

3 constitutional amendments on general election ballot

Voters on Election Day will decide whether to amend the state constitution for:

• Limitation on the assessment of real property used for residential purposes.

This is Amendment 1 on the ballot and approval would authorize the Florida Legislature to pass laws prohibiting flood resistance improvements made to a home from being taken into consideration when assessing property value for tax purposes.

• Abolishing the state constitution revision commission — Amendment 2 on the ballot. Approval would eliminate a commission created in 1968 that meets every 20 years to propose changes to the Florida Constitution.

Opponents of the proposal, such as the League of Women Voters of Florida, say the commission process

She alluded to the inconsistencies between the comp plan and the FLUM, saying it is the city’s duty to bring the two documents in line with one another.

Perry said, “You can fix them one of two ways. You go into your comp plan map and you change the designation to be consistent with the zoning you want or you change the zoning to be consistent to what you already have in your future land use map.”

should be improved not eliminated.

• Adding a homestead property tax exemption for specified critical public services workforce.

This is Amendment 3 on the ballot and approval would authorize the Legislature to provide a new homestead exemption on $50,000 of assessed value on property owned by certain types of workers, including teachers, police, emergency medical personal, military service members and child welfare service employees.

An amendment needs 60% of the vote to pass.

Between 1985 and 2020, Florida’s voters decided 131 statewide ballot questions, approving 100.

Some of these amendments were driven by citizen petitions but the Legislature placed all three proposed amendments on the 2022 ballot.

— Lisa neff

Vosburgh motioned to deny approval of the first reading of the ordinance and directed staff to revisit the issue with the planning and zoning board.

Spooner seconded the motion, which passed unanimously.

Marilyn Maro was absent with excuse.

The next commission meeting will be at 6 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 3, at city hall, 107 Gulf Drive N.

by Lisa neff, calendar@islander.org.

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

ONGOING ON AMI

Throughout October, Anna Maria Island Artists’ Guild features artwork by cancer survivors, Artists Guild Gallery, 5414 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941778-6694.

Throughout October, artist Charlotte Sorsen’s “Walking on Clouds” exhibit, Island Gallery West, 5368 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: islandgallerywest.com, 941-778-6648, @islandgallerywest.

Throughout November, artist Marg Williamson’s “Venues Remembered” exhibit, Island Gallery West, 5368 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: islandgallerywest.com, 941-778-6648, @islandgallerywest.

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.

AROUND AMI

Saturday, Oct. 29

6 p.m. — Main Street Live Halloween Fall Festival and Concert, Main Street, Bradenton. Information: 941-685-8196.

ONGOING AROUND AMI

Through Nov. 27, “Queens of the Air and Empresses of the Arena,” the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, 5401 Bay Shore Road, Sarasota. Fee applies. Information: 941-360-7390, @ TheRingling, ringling.org.

Through Jan. 15, 2023, “Multiple: Prince Twins Seventh-Seven” exhibit Museum of Fine Arts, 255 Beach Drive NE, St. Petersburg. Fee applies. Information: 941-896-2667, mfastpete.org, @mfastpete.

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, @villageofthearts.

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, @FloridaMaritimeMuseum.

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

Island Gallery’s featured artist

marg Williamson is the november featured artist at island gallery West, 5368 gulf drive, Holmes Beach. “i have a strong desire to preserve in paintings the beauty of the world around us,” says Williamson, who creates her paintings in plein-air or from her photos of Southwest florida flora, fauna and landmarks. gallery visitors can meet the artist during the art walk reception 5:30-7:30 p.m. friday, nov. 11, and also during gallery hours Saturday, nov. 19. for more information, call the gallery at 941-778-6648 or go online to islandgallerywest.com. islander courtesy Photo

Through May 2023, 9 a.m-2 p.m., Downtown Bradenton Public Market, Old Main Street, Bradenton. Information: 941-932-9439.

SAVE THE DATE

Nov. 3-13, Island Players’ “I Ought to be in Pictures,” Anna Maria.

Nov. 12, Anna Maria Island Concert Chorus and Orchestra Symphony on the Sand, Bradenton Beach.

Nov. 12-March 26, the Museum of Fine Art’s “True Nature: Rodin and the Age of Impressionism,” St. Petersburg.

Nov. 23, Realize Bradenton’s Main Street Live, Bradenton.

Dec. 2-3, Realize Bradenton’s Bradenton Blues Fest, Bradenton.

Dec. 31, Realize Bradenton’s Main Street Live, Bradenton.

Feb. 18, 2023, Cortez Commercial Fishing Festival, Cortez. March 18-19, Anna Maria Island Art League Springfest, Holmes Beach.

KIDS & FAMILY

ON AMI

Friday, Oct. 28

10 a.m. — Forty Carrots, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: mymanatee.org/library, 941-778-6341, @manateelibraries.

Monday, Oct. 31

4:30-6:30 p.m. — Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce Trail of Treats, 5313 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, and commercial districts. Information: 941-778-1541.

5 p.m. — Trunk or Treat, Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, 6608 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-1813.

Tuesday, Nov. 1

10 a.m.— Storytime, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: mymanatee.org/library, 941-778-6341, @manateelibraries.

AROUND AMI

Saturday, Oct. 29

2 p.m. — Pumpkin Carving Extravaganza. Robinson Preserve

NEST, 10299 Ninth Ave. NW., Bradenton. Information: 941-7425923, aedan.stockdale@mymanatee.org.

6 p.m. — Boo! At the Bishop Halloween celebration, the Bishop Museum, 201 10th St. W., Bradenton. Fee applies. Information: 941-746-4131, bishopscience.org, @BishopScienceFL.

ONGOING AROUND AMI

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

SAVE THE DATE

Nov. 19, Bridge Street Holiday Tree Lighting, Bradenton Beach.

Dec. 3, Holiday Lighted Boat Parade, Bradenton Beach. Dec. 9, Santa in the Park and Holiday Walk of Treasures, Anna Maria.

Dec. 17, Bradenton Beach Area Merchants Christmas on Bridge Street celebration, Bradenton Beach.

CLUBS & COMMUNITY

ON AMI

Wednesday, Oct. 26

10 a.m. — Aging Series Program: Nutrition, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: mymanatee.org/library, 941-778-6341, @manateelibraries.

11 a.m. — Senior Adventures outing to Lucky Frog restaurant, Center of Anna Maria Island, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria. Fee applies. Information: 941-778-1908.

ONGOING ON AMI

Fridays, 11:30 a.m., Mahjong Club, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: mymanatee.org/library, 941-7786341, @manateelibraries.

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, amikiwanis.com.

Wednesdays, noon, Mahjong Club, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: mymanatee.org/library, 941-7786341, @manateelibraries.

ONGOING AROUND AMI

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

Second Tuesdays, 4 p.m., Cortez Village Historical Society meetings, Cortez Cultural Center, 11655 Cortez Road W., Cortez. Information: 941-840-0590, cortezvillagehistoricalsociety.org, @ CortezVillageCulturalCenter

SAVE THE DATE

Nov 5, “Celebrating Brilliance: The Bash at the Bishop,” Bradenton.

Nov. 5, Friendsgiving Dessert & Wine Auction to benefit Friends of Manatee County Animal Services, Bradenton.

Nov. 9, Center of Anna Maria Island sustainability forum, Anna Maria.

Nov. 11, Old Soldiers and Sailors Veterans Day Parade and Ceremony, Anna Maria.

Nov. 18, Anna Maria Garden Club Plant Sale, Anna Maria.

Dec. 16, Anna Maria Garden Club meeting, Anna Maria.

OUTDOORS & SPORTS

ONGOING ON AMI

Tuesdays through Nov. 13, 6 p.m., open volleyball, Center of Anna Maria Island, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria. Information: centerami.org, @TheCenterofAMI, 941-778-1908.

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

WE’VE GOT YOU COVERED.

wellness center and spa

Gulf

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

Island

Halloween happenings on AMI and beyond

Time to scare up a costume and practice those three words.

Trick or treat!

The Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce and island businesses continue a Halloween tradition with the Trail of Treats and costume contest.

The celebrating begins at 3:30 p.m. Monday, Oct. 31, with the check-in for the costume contest at the chamber office, 5313 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach.

Judging will be at 4 p.m. for children up to age 12.

Then kids will go trick-or-treating at businesses in Anna Maria, Bradenton Beach and Holmes Beach.

Maps for the trail will be provided at the chamber office.

For more information, call the chamber at 941778-1541.

AROUND AMI

Friday, Oct. 28

9 a.m. — Oyster shell drilling for vertical oyster gardens, Robinson Preserve, 1704 99th St. NW, Bradenton. Information: 941742-5923.

ONGOING AROUND AMI

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, 10299 Ninth Ave. NW., Bradenton. Information: 941-742-5923, mymanatee.org.

SAVE THE DATE

training opens,

race,

April 7, Bradenton Marauders season opens, Bradenton.

GOOD TO KNOW

KEEP THE DATES

Oct. 29, National Cat Day.

Oct. 31, Halloween.

Nov. 1, D’a de los Muertos.

Nov. 6, daylight saving time ends.

Nov. 8, Election Day.

Nov. 11, Veterans Day.

Nov. 13, World Kindness Day.

Nov. 24, Thanksgiving.

Players return to stage

Halloween celebrants make their way across marina drive in Holmes Beach on the trail of treats. this year’s event, again presented by the anna maria island chamber of commerce and other businesses, will be monday, Oct. 31. the chamber will distribute “trail” maps at its office, with changes this year, to accommodate road construction on marina drive. islander file Photo: Lisa neff

Another island Halloween tradition takes place at Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, which hosts an annual Trunk or Treat.

The celebration will be at 5 p.m. Oct. 31 outside the church, 6608 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach.

For more information, call the church offi ce at 941-778-1813.

Roser Memorial Community Church also will host a Halloween celebration 4:30-6:30 p.m. Oct. 31 in the church parking lot, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria.

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

Several off-island Halloween events taking place prior to the holiday include a Manatee County Pumpkin Carving Extravaganza 2-4 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 29, at Robinson Preserve’s Nest, 840 99th St. NW, Bradenton.

The cost to attend is $10 and reservations are required.

For more information, email aedan.stockdale@ mymanatee.org or call the county parks and natural resources department at 941-742-5923.

Kiwanis hosts Habitat director

The Kiwanis Club of Anna Maria Island will meet at 8:30 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 29, at Bradenton Beach City Hall, 107 Gulf Drive N.

The club’s program includes remarks by Emily Chalker Lane, director of development for Habitat for Humanity Manatee County.

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

The Island Players will bring Neil Simon’s “I Ought to Be in Pictures” to the stage in November, with an opening set for Thursday, Nov. 3.

Kelly Wynn Woodland will direct the show coproduced by Ginny’s and Jane E’s of Anna Maria.

Performances will run through Sunday, Nov. 13, with the cast taking the stage at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday and 2 p.m. Sunday.

The theater, 10009 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria, is dark Mondays.

Actors include Mark Schoemaker, Tahlia Chinault and Diana Shoemaker.

The box office is open for in-person ticket sales 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Mondays-Saturdays, as well as an hour before performances.

Tickets are $25 each.

For more information, call the box office at 941-778-5755 or go to www.theislandplayers. org.

Center collecting coats

The Center of Anna Maria Island noticed the temperature drop and a need arising.

So the center, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria, will collect cold-weather gear Nov-18 to donate to the Turning Points Coat Drive.

Coats, hats and scarves can be dropped off at the center regular business hours.

Camera class offered

Pros know there’s more to taking an iPhone photo than point and shoot.

The center will host a workshop at 9 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 5, on tips and tricks for using the iPhone.

There is a fee involved and registration is required by Friday, Oct. 8.

For more, call the center at 941-778-1908.

Island kids, friends keep local beaches beautiful

By Brook morrison islander reporter

Find some plastic, pick it up.

Now marine life will have good luck.

AME fifth-grader Penny Payne and her friends started a club, “The Four Directions,” in third-grade and they hosted their first beach cleanup Oct. 9 in Bradenton Beach.

“Our group was designed to help clean up the island and do good for the community,” Penny told The Islander Oct. 9.

island community members gather Oct. 9 at 23rd Street north in Bradenton Beach for a photo before spending the morning picking up trash on the beach.

islander Photo: Brook morrison

‘Kids’ gather on AMI for MHS 1959-60 reunion

It’s been reported that Ponce de Leon navigated the western coast of Florida 1513-21 searching for the fabled fountain of youth.

It’s believed he attempted two failed settlements, possibly ranging from Safety Harbor in the north to Charlotte Harbor in the south.

Apparently, he never experienced the youthful effects of living on Anna Maria Island.

On Sept. 25, the “Island Kids” celebrated their shared experience of having grown up on Anna Maria Island in the early years when only a one lane wooden bridge connected the island to the mainland.

The “Kids: are a loosely organized social group that have stayed in contact since graduating from Manatee High in the late 1950s, early 1960s.

The celebration was a lively gathering of youthful exuberance for shared stories of fishing adventures, boating high jinks, motor scooter accidents, church activities, construction and opening of the island community center, community youth dances, beach parties, long school bus rides and romantic interests.

Despite the unrelenting march of time, the “Kids” exuded a collective sense of positive energy bolstered by successful careers and lives well lived.

If the “Island Kids” are any measure, perhaps Ponce de Leon would have found the true fountain of youth had his expeditions ventured forth onto Anna Maria Island.

— John (Kid) dockins

AME Calendar

• Wednesday, Nov. 2, 1:50 p.m. early release.

• Monday, Nov. 7, 3:30 p.m., PTO board meeting.

• Tuesday, Nov. 8, Otis Spunkmeyer cookie sales.

• Friday, Nov. 11, Veterans Day, no school.

• Tuesday, Nov. 15, 5:30 p.m., PTO dinner in the cafeteria; 6:30 p.m., fourth-grade play in the auditorium.

• Nov. 21-25, Thanksgiving holiday, no school.

• Wednesday, Dec. 7, STEM Night.

• Dec. 5-8, Scholastic Book Fair.

• Dec. 23-Jan. 9, winter break, no school.

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

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

— Brook morrison

You can read it all online at islander.org

The club members and others gathered at 9:30 a.m. at the 23rd Street North beach access, where Penny explained to the volunteers how long it takes for trash to break down.

“Paper products take two to three weeks to break down, while aluminium cans can take up to 200 years,” she said.

Cigarette butts, disposable diapers, fishing line and other plastics can take “forever” to break down, she

added.

The volunteers then grabbed pickers — provided by Keep Manatee Beautiful — and garbage bags and hit the sand to scour the beach for trash.

The most unique piece of trash found?

A plastic doll arm.

The Four Directions also collected donations and nonperishable items to help those affected by Ian.

They plan to host their next event Nov. 13 at Joan M. Durante Park on Longboat Ley.

For more, email thefourdirections44@gmail.com.

ame fifth-grade students Penny Payne, left, Lily guth, ava mason, alex Serra and Lexi Baugher begin the cleanup campaign Oct. 9 at 23rd Street north in Bradenton Beach. Penny organized the cleanup. islander Photo: Brook morrison

“island kids” from the manatee High School classes of 1959 and 1960 include april (Blassingame) Lane of edenton, north carolina, left; Bob Johnston of farmville, Virginia; carmen (cagnina) Shea of tampa; Bob glennon of carlsbad, california; Holly feagles of tampa; the rev. rick frost of columbia, missouri; Jan (carlson) norrie of Palmetto; Jerry Shell of Bradenton; mary anne (Vermett) Wilkenson of Brookeville; and chuck Vermett of eagle, idaho. islander courtesy Photo

Holmes Beach Code Dept. hosts kids on the beach Jayson clayton, the Holmes Beach code enforcement officer who heads up sea turtles for the city, spoke about sea turtles and their habitat to a group of manatee county home-school children. clayton and code supervisor Jt thomas “schooled” the kids and gave out some favors, including Holmes Beach sunglasses, baseball caps and city park t-shirts. the group, down by the Bay Homeschoolers headed by Brook Svoboda, includes 54 students, of which 42 attended the turtle talk. the kids also cast-netted fish, found a seahorse and learned about shells. islander Photos: courtesy Svoboda

Penny Payne

aBOVe: former ame students — sixth-graders Oliver morrison-tirpak, left and Jesse Zaccagnino — pose Oct. 22 at the fall festival photo booth. center: Spooky skeletons enjoy a film in the ame-PtO fall festival Haunted House. “Some scares made me jump, but i wasn’t too scared,” fifth-grader duncan cloutier said. rigHt: ame second-graders Lily goodier, left, and aria Jury show off their “doll” costumes Oct. 22 at the fall festival. “i like the bounce houses,” aria said. islander Photos: Brook morrison

staff disperse on the center field, where games

await, after the costume competition at the PtO fall festival.

Gathering

By Lisa neff

Gloria Dei welcomes trunk-or-treaters

“Trunk or treat!”

Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, 6608 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, will celebrate Halloween with an adaptation of trick or treating.

The church’s Trunk or Treat — with adults dispensing treats from their vehicle tailgates at the church parking lot to costumed kids — will begin at 5 p.m. Monday, Oct. 31.

For more information, call the church offi ce at 941-778-1813.

Tidings compiled by Lisa neff

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.

‘Fear Not’ fun at Roser roser memorial community church will host a Halloween celebration 4:30-6:30 p.m. monday, Oct. 31, in the church parking lot, 512 Pine ave., anna maria. an announcement for the “trunk or treat” event said, “Bring your kids, grandkids and/or neighborhood kids and enjoy the fun!” treats will be handed out and kids will receive coloring sheets. for more information, call the church at 941-778-0414.

islander courtesy Photo

Obituary

Laura E. McGeary

Laura E. (Guineau) McGeary, 76, of Bradenton, died Oct. 18 following an illness.

She was born in Buffalo, New York.

She spent her youth in Michigan and Florida and then resided in Pennsylvania. She later returned to live on Anna Maria Island and in Bradenton.

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., 10:15 a.m.

Ongoing: Wednesdays, 8 a.m., men’s meeting; Tuesdays, 6 p.m. first and second, 5 p.m. third and fourth, Terrific Tuesdays.

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, private home; 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;

GoodDeeds

By Lisa neff

Assistance sought on AMI

Pine Avenue performance

the roser church’s women’s ensemble performs Oct. 15 during a church program that coincided with Bayfest along Pine avenue. roser, 512 Pine ave., anna maria, entertained kids outdoors with fun and games and entertained people indoors with a musical program and history. “it all was beautiful music, enjoyed by those who stepped inside to listen and learn a little history about anna maria, too,” wrote Peggy nash, who provided the photo. islander courtesy Photo

Tuesdays and Thursdays, 9 a.m.-2 p.m. and Saturdays, 10 a.m.-1 p.m., Wednesdays, 6:15 p.m., Youth Performing Arts; Roser Thrift Store; second and fourth Thursdays, 11 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.

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

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

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

OFF AMI

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

Please, send listings and updates to calendar@islander.org. Include a contact phone number to publish.

Ms. McGeary was a proud real estate professional and member of the Realtor Association of Sarasota and Manatee. She volunteered many years with the Anna Maria Island Art League and served on its board of directors. She put her creativity to work in donating her art works to charity art auctions.

mcgeary

She last worked at Publix, where she had many supportive colleagues.

She will be missed for her sense of curiosity, her creative touch and for pointing out life’s wonders in many walks through forests and along shores. She was a fan of frogs, sea turtles and the Beatles.

Her family will gather in private celebration of her life. Memorial donations may be made to the Tidewell Foundation or the wildlife conservation cause of your choosing.

Ms. McGeary is survived by her daughters, Kate and Meghan, and three granddaughters, Jiska, Asha and Ayla.

• 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. Information: 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. Information: 941-778-0414.

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

GoodDeeds Organizations: Please, send listings — assistance sought or offered — for GoodDeeds to calendar@islander.org. Please include a contact phone number to publish.

Worship With Us At Our Church Sunday Ser vice 10:00 AM

The Rev. Dr. Nor man Pritchard

Men’s Bible Study: Monday @ 9:00

Women’s Bible Study: Wednesday @ 10:00 Visitors & Residents Welcome Watch Our 10: 00 AM Ser vice Live: www bit ly/cclbksermons or www christchurchof lbk org (follow YouTube link)

Nonprofits: Share wishes for Islander guide

Local charities and other organizations are invited to submit their wish lists to The Islander for the annual Wish Book, published the Wednesday before Thanksgiving.

Each year with the arrival of the holiday season, the newspaper invites organizations to share their wishes — the items they need or desire — in addition to the usual volunteers and funding — to carry them through the year — so that readers can add them to their shopping lists.

Please, send wish lists to Lisa Neff at lisa@ islander.org.

And readers, please pick up a copy of the Wish Book on Wednesday, Nov. 23.

SUNDAY WORSHIP

8:30 AM in the Chapel

10:00 AM in the Sanctuary Nursery • Children’s Church

ONLINE � Watch LIVE or LATER RoserChurch.com

Text ROSER to 22828 to receive the weekly eBulletin

The CHAPEL is open during office hours for prayer and meditation 941-778-0414

512 Pine Ave, Anna Maria

us on Facebook

Roser Church “...a beautiful place to explore your faith...”

The Islander’s anniversary trivia quiz

the islander marks an anniversary — this issue, Vol. 31, no. 1, begins a new year. and we’re marking the anniversary with a quiz about the earliest days of the newspaper — which launched in november 1992.

What was going on in fall 1992? it’s probably no surprise an election took place: democrat Bill clinton defeated republican george H.W. Bush in a race for the White House. also, carol moseley-Braun became the first afri-

can-american woman elected to the u.S. Senate. monica Seles defeated martina navratilova in the Wta tour championship.

moviegoers went to the theater to see “malcolm X,” “aladdin” and “Bram Stroker’s dracula.” rage against the machine released its debut album.

the toronto Blue Jays won the World Series, defeating the Braves.

none of the above was covered in the islander

because the newspaper always has been dedicated to and focused on anna maria island.

in 1992, the paper’s slogan was “the free Voice of anna maria island” but it could have been, “What happens on anna maria island gets reported in the islander.”

now, test your memory and research skills — or make your best guesses — in our anniversary quiz about the first issue of the islander.

— Lisa neff

1

. Page one of the first edition contained a story about allegations of election-related shenanigans in Anna Maria in violation of state law. Florida’s open government statute is known as:

A. Sunshine Law.

B. Government-in-the-Daylight Law

C. Transparency Law.

D. Freedom of Information Act.

8. The earliest editions of The Islander included a recipe column from Dee Becker called “What’s Cookin’ in Dee’s Kitchen.” The ingredients for the “Better than Sex Cake” included German chocolate cake mix, sweetened condensed milk, caramel, Cool Whip and…

A. Three 3 Musketeers bars.

B. Two Heath bars.

C. Cup of strawberries.

2

. In a letter to the editor published in the first issue, Holmes Beach Mayor Pat Geyer wrote, “It will be nice to have a real newspaper on Anna Maria Island.

True or false?

D. Key lime zest.

Top of the fold the front page of the

edition, dated nov.

3

. In an ad for Head Quarters hair salon in Holmes Beach, what was described as “the look that lasts”?

A. “Full, teased and fringed.”

B. “Feathered, frosted and full.”

C. “Bouncy, springy, resilient curls.”

D. “More than a mullet.”

1992. the

in

is Vol. 31, issue 1.

. The first “Streetlife,” included police reports of larceny, with items stolen from two Mercedes. What was taken?

6

A. The hood ornaments.

B. Beach gear.

C. Car phones.

4

. The first edition contained a story about a city meeting on the island that drew a standingroom only crowd. The issue was:

A. A proposed property tax increase in Bradenton Beach.

B. A proposal to build a high fixed-span bridge on Manatee Avenue.

C. A plan for a long pier in Holmes Beach.

D. A proposal for a parking garage at the Manatee Public Beach.

5. In an ad in 1992, the Beach Bistro in Holmes Beach was promoting its breakfast service, including chipped beef on toast.

True or false?

D. Purses.

7

. The Islander announced the Anna Maria Island Art League was preparing to host a Christmas carnival in Holmes Beach.

True or false?

9

. A report of October 1992 property sales included a multifamily home sale in Bradenton Beach for $118,000.

True or false?

10

. The first issue’s masthead included a quote: “Great spirits have always found opposition from mediocrities.” Who said that?

A. Ernie Cagnina.

B. Albert Einstein.

C. Gloria Steinem.

D. Katharine Graham.

Share your answers at news@islander.org or drop them at the office, 315 58th St., Unit J, Holmes Beach, to enter a drawing for an Islander T-shirt.

We’re working with the

Breast Cancer Foundation of Central FL!

Receive 20% off with a donation!

Ian poised to devastate AMI insurance environment

By Kane Kaiman islander reporter

Property owners looking for reassurance won’t find it here.

Hurricane Ian may not have caused much damage to AMI properties, but it likely will wreak havoc on the local property insurance landscape, according to a Palmetto-based broker.

“Hurricane Ian came at the absolute worst time. The market was already fractured, fragile. Quite frankly, it was on life support before Ian,” Jim Cirillo, who has secured property insurance for more than a dozen island condominium associations, said Oct. 20.

“And Florida desperately needed a year off with no major storms hitting the state. We haven’t had a year off since 2016. We almost got through it,” he said.

Unlike insurance carriers in other parts of the United States — who rely on large reserve funds capable of paying out all or most of the claims they might face in a year — Florida carriers rely on reinsurers.

Reinsurers, typically European and Caribbeanbased entities, provide insurance to insurance companies and, each year, renegotiate the amount of coverage they’re willing to provide carriers.

Since 2016, a spike in claims related to Florida storms and global catastrophes has made the reinsurance game unprofitable, leading many outfits to stop doing business with Florida carriers.

When the reinsurance pool dries up, private insurance becomes scarce.

The policies that are available to residents of highrisk areas, such as barrier islands, become dramatically more stringent and expensive.

A fragile market might have been able to absorb the blow of a minor storm but not Ian, Cirillo said.

“This was the fifth-largest storm to ever strike the United States,” he said. “And on top of it being one of the most powerful, one of the largest, this sucker was moving at a snail’s pace. It battered the coast for almost 12 hours with a 16-18-foot storm surge and 155-mph sustained winds with gusts up to 185 mph.”

“It’s estimated that the hazard and wind portion will probably cost the industry $50 billion in insured losses,” Cirillo said.

When the dust settles, Cirillo, a managing part-

ner at GCM Insurance and Risk Management, said island homeowners and condo associations could see an increase of 25%, 50%, 100% or more in the cost of their private insurance policies when it comes time to renew in 2023.

Palm Gables condominium association — with condos at 3001 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach — is paying approximately $53,000 for property insurance from a private carrier, up from $26,000 in 2020.

If the association seeks insurance from a private carrier for its more than $3 million assets when it renews in July 2023, it could see its bill rise to $65,000 in a good scenario.

The association could pay $106,000 or more if Ian’s effects on the market are more pronounced.

The cost of private property insurance on the island likely will be too high to bear, Cirillo said.

In the recent past he has secured private insurance for Palm Gables, Sandy Point, Seabreeze and Anna

Maria Beach Place, all in Holmes Beach, and several other associations on the island.

He predicts the associations with which he works will be forced to turn to Citizens Property Insurance Corp., an entity that receives special reinsurance privileges from the state.

The quasi-public insurer was founded in 2002 to serve as the insurer of last resort for state residents.

Citizens has grown exponentially over the past two years and, in September, it reached more than 1 million policies.

Several hurricanes hit Florida in 2004 and 2005, forcing up premiums, tightening underwriting and driving property owners into the arms of Citizens.

Cirillo said Ian will likely lead to a “repeat of 2004 and 2005,” when Citizens reached 1.8 million policies, becoming the largest insurer in the state and ninthlargest in the country.

Reinstituting restrictions for building in high-risk areas, self-insurance and passing legislation forcing carriers to continue to write policies despite the risks are not practical solutions to Florida’s property insurance problem, Cirillo said.

Citizens will be “the cheapest insurer compared to the private market until we get some type of reinsurance capacity back into Florida,” he said.

While the Florida Hurricane Catastrophe Fund provides some funding to the reinsurance pool, it doesn’t go far enough.

“What they’re going to have to do is they’re going to have to expand that much, much greater than what it is. And they’re going to have to open it up to not only admitted carriers, but also excess and surplus carriers,” he said.

Cirillo intends to pitch legislators to raise the state’s sales tax and tourist tax by a combined 0.5% to fund a public reinsurance pool and he’s encouraging Anna Maria Island residents to push their representatives in Tallahassee to support the plan.

“They’re not going to listen just to little old me,” he said. “They need the constituents to blow up their phones and email and advocate and demand a statefunded reinsurance program so that we can have a long-term, viable solution to the insurance crisis we are currently experiencing.”

astner Castner FINE FURNITURE&

I OUGHT TO BE IN PICTURES by Neil Simon Co-Producer Ginny’s & Jane E’s Cafe Directed by Kelly Wynn Woodland Nov. 3-13

Libby Tucker travels cross-country from Brooklyn to Los Angeles in the hopes of starting a film career with the help of her estranged father. But Herb Tucker has his own problems — a case of perpetual writer’s block and the rocky relationship with his on-again, off-again girlfriend, Steffy.

7:30 PM Tuesday-Saturday 2 PM Sunday Matinees

TICKETS: $25 d r i

Box Office 9-1, Monday-Saturday, and 1 hour before performances

AUDITIONS

Auditions for The Odd Couple (female version) by Neil Simon, 7:30 PM Sunday, Nov. 6. Show dates Jan. 12-29, 2023. Directed by Preston Boyd. For more information go to theislandplayers.org or call 941 778-5755.

10009 Gulf Drive at Pine Avenue, Anna Maria

“anna maria island,” a pictorial history book of the island by Bonner Joy is available at the islander office, 315 58th St., Holmes Beach. Joy is publisher of the islander newspaper. She launched the newspaper in 1992. She first came to the island in 1972.

After the stormhurricane ian

a sign at Seabreeze condominiums Oct. 21 in Holmes Beach. the Seabreeze condominium association and other associations on the island are likely to see property insurance premiums skyrocket due to Hurricane ian, broker Jim cirillo says.

After the stormhurricane ian

Bradenton Beach extends emergency declaration

By robert anderson islander reporter

Bradenton Beach commissioners Oct. 17 extended a declaration of emergency for Hurricane Ian to Oct. 24.

Ian made landfall Sept. 28 as a category 4 storm at Cayo Costa Island in Lee County.

The city extended the declaration to complete its cleanup under Federal Emergency Management Agency guidelines.

“So we are going to extend this one more week and we’re just going to let it sunset next week,” Bradenton Beach Police Department Chief John Cosby said.

The Florida League of Cities, which handles the city’s insurance, had a contractor tarp the roof at the Bradenton Beach Police Department and public works

Anna Maria denies food truck ordinance to ‘rethink’

By Lisa neff islander editor

Anna Maria commissioners need to cook up another food truck ordinance but maybe not on short order.

Commissioners Oct. 13 unanimously voted against an ordinance to designate a zone for food trucks at the north end of Bayfront Park off North Shore Drive.

The vote followed a recommendation to deny the ordinance from Mayor Dan Murphy, who suggested instructing staff to come up with new options to comply with a 2020 state law against overall prohibitions of food trucks.

Murphy also noted objections to the proposed ordinance from residents, including a couple who attended the meeting and thanked the commission for hearing their concerns.

“Definitely we need to rethink this,” Commission Chair Carol Carter said.

The city proposal had been to restrict food trucks to a 20-by-90-foot area in the city right of way near the sandbagging operation in the park. Four trucks would park and open for food sales on a fi rst-come, fi rstserved basis 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Fridays-Sundays.

Both Bradenton Beach and Holmes Beach officials are addressing compliance with the state law with another approach, allowing food trucks to operate at private commercial locations under agreements with property owners.

In other business, commissioners:

• Approved a resolution to request $105,000 in Manatee County beach concession surplus revenue to help fund a study of the Lake LaVista Inlet.

• Approved a contract with Piper Fire Protecting Inc. for fire extinguisher and emergency lighting inspections at city buildings, with service calls priced at $65.

• Approved the reappointment of Jose Erbella to the planning and zoning board. He currently chairs the P&Z.

• Approved a special event request for a Nov. 5 beach wedding near Mangrove Avenue.

• Approved a special event request for the AME PTO Fall Festival, held Oct. 22 at the Center of Anna Maria Island, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria.

• Discussed priorities for the 2023 legislative session, which will be held March 7-May 5. You can peruse the islander newspaper archive, dating back to its launch in november 1992, at ufdc. ufl.edu.

buildings as a precaution against water damage since wind damage occurred to both roofs. Cosby said the police station roof sustained the worst damage and water leaked to the inside ceiling.

Public works director Tom Woodard said residents also should be aware there was a Frontier line down at the intersection of 11th Street North and Bay Drive North.

The city had initiated multiple tickets with the provider for repair but the line still remained a hazard. The intersection was blocked by detour signage.

Also, two fallen Australian pine trees that crushed a fence at Herb Dolan Park were not yet removed as the city was waiting for a tree contractor.

Cosby said missed time for payroll hours due to the hurricane was reimbursed this week.

“City staff was out Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, due to the storm, so, Tom and I authorized from within our budget for our staff to get a $250 bonus.”

Commissioner Jan Vosburgh motioned to extend the declaration to Oct. 24, Commissioner Jake Spooner seconded the motion, which was approved.

detour signs at the intersection of 11th Street north and Bay drive north Oct. 17 warn motorists of a downed frontier line. the line carries no charge but is a hazard, according to city staff. islander Photo: robert anderson

Post Ian: BB tackles regular city business

By robert anderson islander reporter

The Bradenton Beach City Commission met Oct. 20 for its first non-emergency meeting since Hurricane Ian hit in late September.

The meeting dealt with a variety of issues on the backburner since Ian made landfall Sept. 28 in Lee County.

In a first order of business, commissioners approved sponsorship funding for Christmas on Bridge Street.

Mike Bazzy of Bradenton Beach Marina spoke on behalf of the Bridge Street Merchants, requesting $500 for the Bridge Street celebration and the fourth annual lighted boat parade.

“We are looking forward to a great boat parade and a great Christmas on Bridge Street,” he said. “The mayor has been to a lot of our meetings. We have a lot of people really working hard to have a good Christmas this year:”

Commissioner Jake Spooner motioned to increase the city’s sponsorship contribution from $500 to $1,000 and was seconded by Commissioner Ralph Cole. The vote passed unanimously.

Commissioners also approved an event request for Symphony on the Sand, featuring the Anna Maria Island Concert Chorus and Orchestra. The beachfront

concert will return after a pandemic break at 4:30 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 12, at Coquina Gulfside Park.

In other matters

Also during the meeting, the commission

• Waived permit fees for repairing siding, soffit, fascia and aluminum siding damage related to Ian.

• Heard the first reading for an ordinance to impose a 90-day temporary moratorium on authorizing, permitting or franchising golf carts or low-speed vehicles.

The moratorium will allow the city time to complete an analysis for regulation of motorized scooters, micro-mobility devices, golf carts and LSVs.

Cole motioned to approve the first reading and was seconded by Spooner. The next public hearing and a final vote on the moratorium will be at 6 p.m., Wednesday, Nov. 23.

The commission also voted to pay:

• Colliers Engineering & Design in the amounts of $7,878.75 for engineering and design services related to infrastructure and resiliency.

• Container Systems & Equipment $154,352 for a street sweeper.

The next commission meeting will be at 6 p.m., Thursday, Nov. 3, at city hall, 107 Gulf Drive N.

Garden club gets go-ahead for wind sculpture in pier park

By Lisa neff islander editor

The Anna Maria Garden Club plans to plant two wind sculptures in City Pier Park.

The club is partnering with the city of Anna Maria on the installation.

Following an endorsement from Mayor Dan Murphy, club member Pat Short outlined the project for city commissioners during an Oct. 20 meeting at city hall.

Short, the wife of Commissioner Mark Short, said the plan involves commissioning two “Star Dancer” wind sculptures from Whitaker Studios in Utah to create a point of interest in the park, 103 N. Bay Blvd.

“There’s been a big trend of art in public spaces,” she said.

Murphy said the sculpture would bring vibrance to the park.

“I think they add value in our community,” he

said.

The mayor said the club would contribute $6,000, the city would invest $6,000 and he hoped to secure $6,000 in tourist development revenues from the county.

“I think it’s an incredible opportunity,” Commissioner Deanie Sebring said, adding that she’s a member of the garden club.

Commissioner Jonathan Crane, noting he’s married to past club president Dusty Crane, praised the group’s contributions to the city and added, “I think it’s a great, great project.”

Dusty Crane spoke at the meeting to endorse the project, as did Barbara Murphy, vice president of the Anna Maria Island Historical Society and wife of the mayor.

“It’s new and innovative,” Barbara Murphy said.

The vote to move forward with the project was 4-1, with Commissioner Robert Kingan voting no after raising concerns about the expense to the city.

AM commission OKs ‘Marketplace’ wine-beer sales

The take-away vote was not unanimous.

Anna Maria commissioners approved Oct. 20 a special use permit for packaged beer and wine sales from a stall at the Pineapple Marketplace, 425 Pine Ave., Anna Maria.

Commissioner Jonathan Crane voted no in the 4-1 decision after raising concerns about the late addition to the meeting agenda and sharing a citizen’s complaint about “hooligans” drinking beer after hours at the property.

Others at the dais and in the gallery said they

weren’t aware of after-hours problems.

Mayor Dan Murphy said if there is an issue, it concerns law enforcement, not planning.

“None of us want drunk hooligans on the street, especially Pine Avenue,” he said.

The special use permit is for Reclaimed Soul, operated by Samantha and James Heil, who want to sell craft and artisan beers and 12-20 wines for off-site consumption.

The owners still need to obtain a state license for the package sales.

Cortez crabbers lukewarm about startup stone crab yield

By Kane Kaiman islander reporter

This year’s profi t margins are far from “colossal.”

Pinched by high fuel and material costs, Cortez stone crabbers working with John Banyas’ fish house, Cortez Bait and Seafood, were indecisive over the volume of crabs found in their traps the first few days of the season.

Crabber David Woodson — a Cortez Bait and Seafood Fish Market employee and owner of Kitchen Flats Seafood — said Oct. 17 he averaged about half a pound of crab claw per trap during his first pulls of the season, which began Oct. 15.

In the past, under normal economic conditions, crabbers could break even with a yield of one-third pound per trap.

With the high cost of diesel boat fuel, cement that weighs down traps and other materials, Woodson said he was barely turning a profit at a half-pound per trap.

Some of the material costs are being passed on to consumers in the form of higher claw prices.

Claws are graded into four sizes — medium, large, jumbo and colossal.

Am plans Vets Day tribute

The city of Anna Maria will salute service and military veterans with a parade and ceremony.

Afterward, the Anna Maria Island Historical Society will host an ice cream social.

The parade will begin at 1 p.m. Friday, Nov. 11, at city hall, 10005 Gulf Drive, traveling east on Pine Avenue to the City Pier Park.

There, the city will hold a ceremony.

Anna Maria Mayor Dan Murphy said Oct. 20 the plans involve “the biggest and best parade we’ve had so far. … It’s really going to be a big parade. I think it’s going to be fun.”

For more info, go to cityofannamaria.com.

— Lisa neff

grayson King, 7, with his mom, Hannah King, takes hold of a stone crab claw Oct. 17 at Swordfish grill and tiki Bar in cortez. the Kings — visiting anna maria again from Kansas city, missouri — found and enjoyed stone crab for the first time at Swordfish grill last year. islander Photo: Kane Kaiman

At the market Oct. 17, medium claws were $32 per pound, while colossal claws were $59.

The first week of the 2021 stone crab season began with a similar yield, followed by a period of scarcity many fishers attributed to lingering red tide in the Gulf of Mexico.

Woodson said forecasting the number of crabs he’ll catch in any given year is impossible, but he expects this season to follow a traditional pattern and pick up when cold fronts move through the area, stirring crabs out of the mud in which they spend 75% of their lives.

Banyas, owner of Cortez Kitchen and Swordfish

Stone crab claws must measure at least 2 7/8 inches in length measured by a straight line from the elbow to the tip of the lower immovable finger. the forearm is the largest section of the claw assembly that has both a moveable and immovable finger and is located farthest from the body of the crab. — fWc

Grill & Tiki Bar restaurants adjacent to his fish house, said the crabbers he works with dropped about 4,800 traps during the 10-day preseason period.

According to Swordfi sh Grill kitchen manager Anthony Cucci, Banyas and company’s traps yielded about 600 pounds of claws Oct. 15, which he characterized as a “pretty decent pull.”

“Our owner is our supplier,” Cucci said Oct. 17, describing the proximity between the fish house and the restaurant as a luxury.

Swordfish Grill general manager Adam Sears boated out to collect the claws Oct. 15, transporting them to Cortez Bait and Seafood for processing.

By 2 p.m. Oct. 15, they were on the menu at Swordfish Grill and sold out that night.

“Customers should definitely call ahead,” he said. “Just because we have them at two o’clock doesn’t mean we’ll have them at five o’clock because they’re a pretty hot commodity right now.”

Engine trouble prevented pulls Oct. 16 but claws were on the menu again Oct. 17.

A 1-pound entree of medium claws was listed at $55, while a 1-pound entree of large claws was $65.

Cucci said he expected prices to remain stable throughout the season barring any dramatic fluctuations in the market.

Banyas said Oct. 17 that the traps his team pulled yielded about three-fourths of a pound of claws per trap, ringing in an “average” — but not disappointing — start to the season.

“There was enough to get everybody started,” he said. “Enough for the restaurants and the retail markets. We all got crabs, so we’re happy.”

Banyas said he hopes prices stabilize before the Cortez Stone Crab and Music Festival Nov. 12-13, an annual event staged in his parking lot at the end of 119th Street West.

“Everything has gone up. Trying to get concrete for your traps, trying to get bait, trying to get fuel. Labor. It costs everybody more to survive,” Banyas said. “But it’s all just part of making it happen.”

Jay Drisbow, braDenton rollover

By robert anderson islander reporter

Bradenton Beach has a problem collecting a $20,563 legal settlement from the estate of Reed Mapes.

On Oct. 14, in a case listing Mapes as the appellant, the 2nd District Court of Appeal ruled in favor of the city and upheld a 2019 ruling from the 12th Judicial Circuit Court that determined Mapes and five other defendants violated the Sunshine Law.

The appeals court ruling was the finale to a lawsuit that began in 2017, when the city sued some planning and zoning board and ScenicWAVES committee members over alleged violations of the Sunshine Law.

The law provides access to governmental proceedings at state and local levels, applying to any gathering of two or more members of the same board to discuss a matter that might foreseeably go before that board for action.

The case dates back to July 25, 2017, when Concerned Neighbors of Bradenton Beach members — including people serving on city boards — met outside the city hall and had conversations about possible charter changes, including eliminating parking garages, according to court documents.

Bradenton Beach city attorney Ricinda Perry said at the time she learned of the gathering and listened to an audio tape of the meeting posted on the group’s website.

2022 Elections

Early voting continues

Early in-person voting for the election continues through Sunday, Nov. 6, with polling 8:30 am.-6 p.m.

There are five locations. The Manatee County utilities office, 4410 66th St. W., Bradenton, is the location nearest Anna Maria Island.

Balloting by mail also is underway.

As of Oct. 17, about 17,308 votes were cast in Manatee County — all of them by mail.

Election Day is Tuesday, Nov. 8, with polling 7 a.m.-7 p.m.

In Anna Maria, which is precinct 301, voters will cast ballots at Roser Memorial Community Church, 512 Pine Ave.

In Bradenton Beach, precinct 307, voters cast ballots at the volunteer fire station, 201 Second St. N. In Holmes Beach, precinct 305, voters cast ballots at St. Bernard Catholic Church, 248 S. Harbor Drive. Sample ballots are at votemanatee.com.

She then sent an email July 27, 2017, to commissioners relating a potential legal risk to the city due to Sunshine Law violations.

In October 2020, the court ordered Mapes, John Metz and Tjet Martin to jointly pay the city $369,498.

Patty Shay, Bill Vincent and Rose Vincent paid the city $500 each as they settled before the 2019 trial.

Metz and Martin also eventually settled with the city, paying $351,500, but Mapes, who had called the trial “political assassination,” continued to fight until his death in April.

Perry said Oct. 20 that the city is facing difficulties obtaining the money from Mapes’ estate and expressed frustration over the inability of attorney Robert Watrous to collect the payment. Watrous represented the city in the case, assisted by paralegal Michael Barfield and Perry.

“I have reached out to Mr. Watrous and his only communication to me or the city has been to bill the city for varied costs. It does not appear there has been a large effort to acquire the remaining funds out of the estate of Mr. Mapes.”

Mayor John Chappie suggested using a collection agency and the commission formed a consensus directing Perry to pursue contracting with a collection agency.

Bradenton resident arrested for assaulting officer

A Manatee County Sheriff’s Office deputy Oct. 15 arrested Bradenton resident Matthew Bauer, 29, for alleged battery on a law enforcement officer.

An MCSO officer patrolling at the Bayfest festival on Pine Avenue in Anna Maria responded to complaints from festivalgoers that they were being harassed by Bauer, according to an MCSO report.

When the deputy asked him to stop harassing people, Bauer became belligerent and irate, touching his nose to the deputy’s nose and shouting obscenities and threats. The interaction with Bauer led to the deputy being hit with Bauer’s saliva, according to an arrest report.

The deputy attempted to place Bauer in handcuffs and, after a scuffle, Bauer was arrested and transported to the Manatee County jail on a charge of third-degree battery on a law enforcement officer.

Bauer paid the $1,000 bail and was released pending a Nov. 11 court appearance.

Under Florida law, battery of a law enforcement officer is a third-degree felony, with penalties of up to five years in prison or five years of probation and a $5,000 fine.

— robert anderson

Streetlife Staff reports

Island police reports

Anna Maria

No new reports.

The Manatee County Sheriff’s Office polices Anna Maria.

Bradenton Beach

Oct. 15, 2408 Gulf Drive N., Via Roma Beach Resort, reckless driving, hit and run. Bradenton Beach police officers responded to a call for assistance from Holmes Beach police in the pursuit of a driver moving at a high rate of speed southbound on the beach at night. A BBPD officer observed the vehicle and gave chase but lost sight of the vehicle in the dark. The vehicle was later found wrecked and deserted in the Gulf of Mexico off Coquina Beach after going over the rocks at the jetty at Longboat Pass. Authorities were unable to find the driver. Witnesses on the Longboat Pass Bridge said a man crossing the bridge on foot complained of a back injury. The vehicle was towed and the case remains under investigation.

The BBPD polices Bradenton Beach. Cortez

No new reports.

The MCSO polices Cortez.

Holmes Beach

Oct. 11, 5800 block of Gulf Drive, criminal traffic.

A Holmes Beach police officer observed a speeding motorcyclist and attempted a traffic stop. The motorcyclist fled, committing multiple traffic infractions. The officer found the cyclist at his Bradenton Beach home. The man admitted driving the motorcycle and fleeing. He exhibited signs of breathing impairment and was transported to HCA Blake Hospital in Bradenton.

At the hospital, a Manatee County sheriff’s deputy issued the man three traffic citations for unlawful speed, avoidance of traffic control devices and failure to obey a stop sign.

Oct. 13, 5608 Gulf Drive, Sun Plaza West, battery.

An HBPD officer was dispatched for a fight. Witnesses said two men got into a fight when one of the men tried to walk around another man working on a ladder. One man was trespassed from the property. Due to conflicting testimony, the officer submitted the case for review by the state attorney.

The HBPD polices Holmes Beach.

Island watch In an emergency, call 911. To report info, call the MCSO Anna Maria substation, 941-708-8899; Bradenton Beach police, 941-7786311; Holmes Beach police, 941-708-5804.

Manatee Avenue Market Gumbozilla

Famous Gumbo Made-Fresh Daily Breakfast & Lunch Sandwiches & Salads

Pressed Cubans . Chicken Salad . Soup du Jour Dog food, household items, cold beverages, beer, wine, cigs. FRIENDLY SERVICE!

Look for the BLUE market at the light 51st & Manatee 5104 Manatee Ave W . Bradenton . 941.896.6245

Little Italy in

Anna Maria Island.

a map shows a detour for the island trolley due to “city center” work in Holmes Beach. Businesses on marina drive in the work area are accessible from Holmes Boulevard. islander file image

Eyes on the road

• Anna Maria continues to pave roads, including Spring Avenue from South Bay Boulevard to Crescent Drive, Tarpon from Pine to Spring Avenue and Magnolia to the southeast end, Loquat Drive from South Bay Boulevard to the southwest end, Kumquat Drive from South Bay to the southwest end, Bayview Place from South Bay to the southwest end and South Drive from South Bay to the southwest end through Oct. 28.

Paving through Nov. 4 is on Holly Road from Iris

Field work

Post-Hurricane ian cleanup work continues Oct. 12 at Holmes Beach city field, where a city contractor, ceres environmental Services, was handling tree and landscape debris. the city posted on its website that the last day for storm debris collection was Oct. 15. the next task for the city will be calculating the costs and securing reimbursement from the federal emergency management agency. residents are tasked with leaving any additional debris at the curb for regular pickup. islander Photo: Lisa neff

to Jacaranda Road, Newton Lane from North Shore Drive to Jacaranda, Iris from Jacaranda to the southeast end, Los Cedros Drive from Pine to Coconut Avenue, Hammock Road and Hammock Circle from Los Cedros to the northwest end and from Hammock Road to the west end and Oak Avenue from the southwest end to the northeast end.

• Holmes Beach is working near the intersection of Gulf and Marina drives to include new amenities and improve stormwater flow. There will be road and lane closures at Gulf and Marina drives with marked detours. Also, the intersection remains closed.

Construction work also required the closure of the

eastside trolley stop on Marina Drive north of Gulf Drive. So the northbound trolley is taking a detour, going from Gulf Drive, then east on 56th Street to Marina Drive to continue north.

• Manatee County’s utilities department is working on a force main project along Holmes Boulevard, which can result in some traffic delays and congestion.

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

To check traffi c via road cameras, go to fl 511. com.

— Lisa neff

nesting notes

By Samara Paice

1 nest to go

Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird

Monitoring volunteers had only one loggerhead sea turtle nest remaining Oct. 21.

High tides and a hurricane impacted many nests but the 2022 turtle nesting season was still successful, exceeding a record set in 2018 for hatchling counts by more than 1,200.

As season ends, we wonder: What happens to the hatchlings?

The volunteers often are asked, do the females come back to their hatchlings?

No.

They lay their eggs and return to the sea. The nest incubates and the hatchlings emerge on their own.

Where do the hatchlings go when they crawl into the Gulf?

The hatchlings swim to the area where sargassum seaweed floats and many hatchlings will catch the Gulf Stream to the Sargasso Sea in the Atlantic Ocean.

Hatchlings spend years evading predators from above and below.

Males never return to land while females return to the area of the beach where they hatched after 30 to 35 years to lay their own eggs.

AMITW volunteers count eggs and rescue stranded hatchlings because their lives are precious, with only one in 1,000 living to adulthood.

And they encourage people to stop by their booth at the Anna Maria Farmers Market at City Pier Park, 101 N. Bay Blvd., 8:30 a.m.-2 p.m. Tuesdays to gather information on protecting sea turtles and their habitat

a loggerhead hatchling extracted from a nest is kept in a bucket until its release to the gulf of mexico near the 90th block of Oak avenue in anna maria. islander file Photo: Samara Paice

and support the nonprofit’s mission.

In other news, Debbie Basilius, AMITW board treasurer, said Oct. 19 there were no updates from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission about the process for replacing executive director Suzi Fox, who died Sept. 30, on the state permit.

Meanwhile, Fox’s family is planning a celebration of life for friends and AMITW volunteers, most likely to be held in January.

Esther swims into 8th place

Esther — a loggerhead sea turtle tagged and released June 20 on Coquina Beach in Bradenton Beach as part of the Tour de Turtles — moved up to eighth place as of Oct. 20.

The tour started Aug. 1 and can be followed at tourdeturtles.org.

The race ends Oct. 31.

Esther had traveled 526 miles through Oct. 20.

Her travel has been in the Gulf of Mexico and the majority of her movement has been between Venice and Boca Grande.

According to Sea Turtle Conservancy communication coordinator Lexie Beach, loggerheads tend to stay where the best feeding area is and loggerheads eat mostly shellfish.

It seems Esther found a shellfish-concentrated area that meets her needs. The tour is led by the conservancy.

The Waterline Resort, Mainsail Vacation Rentals, both located on Marina Drive in Holmes Beach, and AMITW worked with the conservancy to make the tagging of Esther possible.

Each turtle has a cause. Esther’s is light pollution.

About AMITW amitW is a nonprofit focused on collecting data on threatened or endangered sea turtles. the organization also collects data on shorebirds. the nesting data is required to meet beach renourishment contracts and amitW is compensated by the county for its service.

Top Restaurants

‘Blue Island Economy’ panel discussion planned

By Lisa Neff

That was then Way back in 1992 — the year the first issue of this newspaper published — activists were working to raise awareness to many of the environmental issues we’re still addressing.

Then, as now, people were talking about warming temperatures, climate change, sea level rise.

After a global cooling between the 1940s and 1970s due in large part to aerosol pollutants, temperatures resumed a climb.

In the summer of 1988, temperatures set a record for heat, wildfires and drought were widespread in the United States and a NASA scientist told Congress we were experiencing global warming.

neff

A year later, the United Nations established a panel on climate change to tackle the science, eventually leading to the first global agreement to reduce greenhouse gases in 1997 — remember the Kyoto protocol?

Searching archives and reviewing papers for 1992 as I prepared to write about The Islander’s anniversary — the issue you hold is the first of a new volume, the paper’s 31st year — I came across a 1992 document from the Sarasota Bay National Estuary Program.

The “Sarasota Bay: Framework for Action” addresses “global warming” and “climate change” and contains a section on sea level rise.

The authors wrote that accelerated rates of sealevel rise based on estimates of global warming indicated high tides could be higher than present levels by 5.8 inches in 2020 and 25.2 inches in 2115.

Vultures flock to myakka river State Park to feast on a “fish kill” following a cold snap in 2015. the scene was spooky. What’s your most frightening wild florida encounter? email news@islander.org.

islander file Photos: Lisa neff

“These higher water levels could cause saltwater to intrude into shallow-water aquifers, erode beaches and causeways, drown tidal wetlands, kill some seagrasses and increase surface runoff and associated pollution.”

What else did the writers and editors of this “framework” know 30 years ago?

If you read the framework in 1992, you learned “the climate of the planet may be changing because of the increase of carbon dioxide, methane, nitrous oxide, chlorofluorocarbons and other greenhouse gases. These gases are produced primarily by the burning of fossil fuels and deforestation.”

The writers advised local governments to address sea level rise in their comp plans, particularly in regards to development, and encouraged considerations of sealevel rise in renourishment projects and wetlands protection.

The writers identified other concerns:

• Seagrass beds are diminished and remaining flats are scarred by the tracks of boat propellers.

• Scallop, oyster and clam harvests have been reduced, and anglers’ catches are generally reduced as well.

• Natural shoreline habitats have been replaced by seawalls and once-abundant mangrove wetlands are

tracy fanara of the national Oceanic atmospheric administration will moderate a “Being a Blue island economy” panel 5-7 p.m. Wednesday, nov. 9, at the center of anna maria island, 407 magnolia ave., anna maria. Panelists include all clams on deck’s ed chiles, florida Sea grant’s angela collins, gulf Shellfish institute’s curt Hemmel, captains for clean Water’s Scott moore, eckerd college’s Jorge angulo and Holmes Beach clean Water committee member Bob carter. a notice from the center said, “this evening will take a look at how the effort to address clean water and sustainable living is universally ours!” for more information, including $10 ticket details, call the center at 941-7781908. islander courtesy Photo

depleted.

• Intense residential and commercial development is found throughout the Sarasota Bay area, with an accompanying increase in stormwater runoff, wastewater, pollution, sediment and chemical contaminants flowing into the bay.

• The human environment has changed as well, with people often unfamiliar with their neighbors and generally lacking a sense of place and community.

And, as they warned about the potential for further destruction of the ecosystem, they shared a vision for “an estuary where freshwater from creeks and rivers mixes with saltwater from the sea” providing “a nursery for most marine life.”

What was then is good for now.

Recognize these names?

Paul Roat was an editor/writer with the original “Sarasota Bay: Framework for Action.” Roat, who died in 2014, helped to found The Islander and originated the Sandscript column.

David Tomasko also was involved in writing and editing the “framework.” In 1992, he was a senior scientist with the estuary program. Today, he’s the executive director.

Randall S. Wells also was a writer for the framework. Wells has headed up a Sarasota Dolphin Research Program since the 1970s.

By Kevin P. cassidy islander reporter

Soccer action at the community center in Anna Maria has taken center stage, though Red Cup Kickball (huh?) is now underway as well.

More on the red cup later.

Soccer, kickball, horseshoe and golf take AMI center stage cassidy

The youth soccer league completed its fi fth week of action, and there is some serious competition in the 4- and 7-and-under divisions at the Center of Anna Maria Island.

The 4U division focuses on fun while helping the young players develop basic soccer skills, while the 7U division balances skill development with competition.

The 7U division has six teams, while the 4U division has four teams, so there’s a steady supply of players ready to move up to the next level of competition.

Halfway through the season in the 10U division, LaPensee Plumbing appears to be the leader of the class. They have a 4-1 record, just ahead of Sato Real Estate at 3-0-2 and Island Real Estate at 3-1-1. AMI Coconuts at 1-1-3, Solid Rock Construction at 1-3-1 and 0-5 Cloud Pest Control complete the standings.

Action for the 10Us kicked off Oct. 18 with LaPensee cruising to a 7-0 victory over Cloud Pest Control behind three goals each from Preston LaPensee and Tristan Hagey and a goal from Luca Rosenkrans. Asher Patel made three saves to help nail the victory.

Salvatore Vera helped Cloud with six saves.

Island Real Estate and AMI Coconuts battled in the second match of the night to a 0-0 tie that was dominated by goalies. AMI Coconuts goalie Sophia Kerr came through with seven saves, while her IRE counterpart, Oliver Barr, made five saves.

The last 10U division match of the night saw Sato Real Estate ride a hat trick from Brandon Sato to a 3-0 victory over Solid Rock Construction. Dylan Sato contributed an assist and Gunnar Maize made four saves in the victory.

Luke Willing was the player of the match for Solid Rock, finishing with seven saves in the loss

HSH Designs continues to lead the 14U division with a 3-0-1 record with 1-2-0 Progressive Cabinetry and 0-3-1 Mac Parkman Foundation completing the standings.

Progressive earned its first victory of the season with a 2-1 win over Mac Parkman to wrap up Oct. 18 soccer action at the center.

Mason Moss notched a pair of goals to lead Progressive, which also received four saves from Charlie

Serra in the victory.

Xane Flores made three saves for Mac Parkman Foundation in the loss.

Standings tighten in adult soccer league

Slim’s Place still leads the adult soccer league, but the lead slimmed after a tie with Moss Builders.

Slim’s Place sits at 4-0-1, just ahead of Wash Family Construction at 3-1-1. Pool America follows at 3-2, while Moss Builders holds down fourth place with a 2-1-2 record. Sato Real Estate follows at 2-3, while Ross Built and Servis First Bank at 1-3-1 and 1-4 Gulfview Windows and Doors complete the standings.

Wash got things started Oct. 20 with a 5-4 victory over Gulfview Windows & Doors. Kevin Roman and Amy Ivin both notched a brace, while Austin Nutting finished with a goal. Mark Long helped preserve the victory with six saves.

Keith Mahoney scored two goals for Gulfview,

which also received a goal each from Zachary Long and Raul Loera and three saves from Thomas Mangotic in the loss.

The second match of the night saw Servis First Bank notch its first victory of the season with a 4-1 win over Ross Built behind two goals from Luca Vecchio and a goal each from Lucky Durmaz and Luis Pichardo.

Dean Hinterstoisser scored the lone goal for Ross Built on an assist from Sam Parker, while Steve Oelfke made five saves in the loss.

Sato Real Estate rode a hat trick from Daniel Anderson to outscore Pool America 5-4 in the third match of the night. Jacek Czajkowski added a pair of goals to complete the scoring for Sato.

Gerardo Urbiola Bolanos scored two goals for Pool America, which also received a goal each from Nate Welch and Chris Yavalar in the loss.

Slim’s Place suffered its first blemish on the season on a 2-2 tie with Moss Builders. Eric Pullen scored twice to lead Slim’s, which also received five saves from Sean McCarthy in the tie.

Daniel Hampton and Jessica Williams each scored for Moss, which received 13 saves from Ryan Moss to help preserve the tie.

Kickball kicks off season

Red Cup Kickball made its debut Oct. 17 with a pair of games at the community center. The league has four teams and games are played at the center Monday evenings.

The league is an alternative to soccer and an ode to the ever-present plastic red cups on the sidelines at nearly all sports.

Action Oct. 17 saw Paddy Wagon slip past Capt. Ron’s Crew by a 16-14 score. The second game of the night saw General Bums cruise to a 20-11 victory over the Salty Dolphins.

Horseshoe news

Horseshoe action Oct. 19 was short and sweet at the Anna Maria city hall pits. Bob Baker teamed up with Norm Langeland to earn the day’s bragging rights after posting the only 3-0 record during pool play.

Two teams emerged from pool play at the Oct. 22 games and battled it out in the finals. The team of Rod Bussey and Herb Schutt jumped out to an early lead, but

Beach Bums’ izzy disalvo and ugly grouper’s cairo Parks converge on the ball during Oct. 18 7-andunder soccer action at the center of anna maria island.

adrian griffin interiors’ Hudson cotrone and Shady Lady’s graham Lotz set eyes firmly on the ball during 7u soccer action Oct. 18 at the center of anna maria island. islander Photo: Kevin P. cassidy

islander Photo: Kevin P. cassidy

Recent cold snap presents a window to great fall fishing

By capt. danny Stasny islander reporter

With a recent cold front, raising awareness that winter is around the corner, Anna Maria Island anglers can finally gear up for the fall bite. With the dog days of summer behind us, it’s time to experience some great fall fishing on the inland waters throughout Tampa Bay and the adjoining waters to the south.

We should expect to see popular flats species — snook, redfish and spotted seatrout — beginning to stage up on the flats to gorge themselves on as many bait fish as they can in preparation for the colder, leaner times to come.

Migratory species — Spanish mackerel and king fish — also should be making a showing sooner than later in the Gulf of Mexico and in Tampa Bay.

Other migratory fish — bonito and blackfin tuna — also will be making their presence known around the wrecks and reefs farther from shore in the Gulf of Mexico.

And with the migratory fish, you can bet the sharks will not be far behind. Spinner and blacktip sharks will be the most common, although don’t rule out other species, such as hammerhead and bull sharks.

So now is the time to get a head start. Make sure your tackle is up to par and be ready to go out and experience the long awaited fall bite. There should be plenty of action in store for you.

Capt. Jason Stock says while fishing offshore in the Gulf, he’s targeting mangrove and yellowtail snap per, as well as some almaco jacks. He’s also seeing some keeper-size cobia mixed in with the bite.

Finding schools of bait while offshore is lending to action on amberjack, jack crevalle, bonito, blackfin tuna and various types of sharks.

Capt. David White is finding black grouper, as well as mangrove and yellowtail snapper while working offshore. He says he anticipates the arrival of blackfin

sports frOm Page 26

Tom Farrington heated up and cruised to a 23-8 comefrom-behind victory and the day’s championship.

Play gets underway at 9 a.m. Wednesdays and Sat urdays 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 wel come.

Key Royale news

Bill Sweeney and Bob Leedham both carded scores of plus-4 to tie for first place in the men’s modifiedStableford system match Oct. 17 at the Holmes Beach golf club.

The women were back in action Oct. 18 at the KRC with a nine-hole individual-low-net match in three flights.

Jenny Huibers fired an even-par 32 to edge secondplace finisher Brenda Solleveld by two strokes to take first place in Flight A.

Laurie Hicks won Flight B with a 5-over-par 37, one stroke ahead of second-place finisher Sharon Tarras.

Terry Westby’s even-par 32 earned her a first-place finish in Flight C. Janet Razze was alone in second place with a 1-over-par 33.

Look for “more” sports online, including photos, at islander.org.

tuna and kingfish as a result of the dropping water temperatures.

Moving inshore, gag grouper and Spanish mack erel are being caught on White’s charters in Tampa Bay around rocks, reefs and wrecks.

Snook fishing on the flats is going strong when using live shiners as bait.

Finally, large jack crevalle are being caught — always a crowd-pleaser — on medium-heavy, spinning gear.

Capt. Warren Girle is finding an exceptional bite

on Spanish mackerel while fishing the artificial reefs in the Gulf. On one morning, White reports his cli ents counted more than 100 macks on their hooks in a two-hour period. Mixed in with the mack bite are blue runners and jack crevalle, as well as ladyfish.

Moving inshore, spotted seatrout are being coop erative while working the deeper grass flats in Sarasota Bay. Casting free-lined live shiners in these areas is working best.

Jim Malfese at the Rod & Reel Pier says a vari ety of species are being caught by anglers using live shrimp as bait. Redfish top the list, with all sizes being caught. Most are 15-22 inches, with a few fish over the maximum size limit of 27 inches.

Another species — a welcome sight to pier fishers I might add — are sheepshead. Malfese says sheepies up to 16 inches are being caught, and although not in herds, they are worth targeting. Mangrove snapper are in the mix at the northernmost pier on AMI, as well as black drum. To round out the bite, a few snook are being caught.

Those anglers opting to use artificials, such as small jigs or silver spoons, are hooking into an occa sional Spanish mackerel, ladyfish and jack crevalle at the pier.

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

TideWatch

Red tide blooms detected in Southwest Florida

A bloom of the red tide organism, Karenia brevis, exists in Southwest Florida.

’Lil bones awaits trick or treaters debbie eisenback of Bradenton Beach has the Hal loween spirit at her place in the 100 block of ninth Street north. She wrote to the islander: i thought my surfer dead dude would be a fun photo. … Poor guy hung 100 instead of 10! Happy Halloween.”

The FWC, in a news release Oct. 21, said it was closely monitoring Karenia brevis, which was detected in multiple samples in Manatee, Sarasota, Charlotte and Lee counties.

The FWC also said sample collection continued to be impacted by the Hurricane Ian response.

For more information, go online to myfwc.com/ research/redtide.

Stasny

Lisa neff

Offshore fishing cap tains Jason Stock, left, and david White show off a mixed bag of offshore spe cies — red snapper, margate and gag grouper — caught on a recreational trip.

islander courtesy Photo

ITEMS FOR SALE

cHandeLier BrOWn, like-new, $20, office chairs, white seat, black legs, $25. 941-9202494.

Side taBLeS: BrOWn with glass top. two for $25. 941-920-2494.

antiQue Partner deSK: all wood, $500. inquire at the islander office, 315 58th St. Suite J, Holmes Beach. 941-778-7978.

antiQue Office cHairS: circa 1950 from anna maria city Hall. call the islander newspaper. 941-778-7978.

FREEBIE ITEMS FOR SALE

email classifieds@islander. org , fax toll-free 1-866-362-9821. (limited time offer)

PETS

HeLP reScued PetS! Volunteer, foster, computer help needed! moonracer animal rescue. email: moonraceranimalrescue@ gmail.com.

TRANSPORTATION

gOLf cart rentaLS: fun for residents and tourists! www.golfcartrentalami.com.

BOATS & BOATING

HaVe a BOat and wanna catch more fish, better bait or learn the water? 50-year local fisherman, your boat, my knowledge. captain chris, 941-896-2915.

FISHING

LiVe PinfiSH-SHinerS delivery available. 941-705-1956, text only.

HELP WANTED

BeSt Bar Hiring: Best food, best wages. Hiring for front of the house and back of the house. 941-213-9926.

reSOrt aSSiStant: iSLand resort is seeking a resort assistant, 32 to 36 hours per week. resort or hotel experience a plus! Pay commensurate with experience, personality and ability to learn quickly. interested candidates can send resume or letter of interest to islands58@aol.com

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.

KIDS FOR HIRE

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.

HEALTH CARE

PriVate dutY: regiStered nurse. Pet lover, non-smoker, fully vaccinated, help with transportation, shopping, light cooking, cleaning. Help with following doctor’s orders, bathing, etc. 10-plus years’ experience. call or text Jessica, 412-851-0840.

SERVICES

need a ride to airports? tampa, St. Pete, Sarasota. gary, 863-409-5875. gvoness80@ gmail.com.

iS YOur HOme or office in need of some cleaning? Well, i’m your girl! Local, reliable, professional! Please, give me a call or text, 941-773 -0461.

SERVICES Continued

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.

BicYcLe rePairS: Just4fun at 5358 gulf drive can do most any bicycle repair at a reasonable cost. Pick-up and delivery available. 941-896-7884.

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. getting married? i will be your wedding officiant. call rev. James mcubbin, 941253-6649.

HandYman Or cLeaning services: affordable rates. fred, 941-356-1456.

PrOfeSSiOnaL WindOW cLeaning: residential, commercial, free estimates. “We want to earn your business!” 207-852-6163.

aLL cLean and concierge services on ami and surrounding areas. call or text me today for a quote! Peggy, 248-310-0012.

Pet Sitter: Hire today! in-home care for vacations, business trips and weekend getaways. call Susan to care for your pet and home while you are away on your vacation or trip. references available, 860-751-8660.

BuSineSS-tO-BuSineSS Jd’s Window cleaning looking for storefront jobs in Holmes Beach. i make dirty windows sparkling clean. 941-920-3840.

BeacH SerVice air conditioning, heat, refrigeration. commercial and residential service, repair and/or replacement. 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.

angeLO’S LaWn care: mow, edge, string trimming, blow. Starting at $20/cut. Licensed/insured. 941-217-9000.

mOre adS = more readers in the islander.

HOME IMPROVEMENT

Van-gO Painting residential/commercial, interior/exterior, pressure cleaning, wallpaper. island references. Bill, 941-795-5100. www.vangopainting.net.

tiLe -tiLe -tiLe. all variations of ceramic tile supplied and installed. Quality workmanship, prompt, reliable, many island references. call neil, 941-726-3077.

griffin’S HOme imPrOVementS inc. Handyman, fine woodwork, countertops, cabinets and wood flooring. insured and licensed. 941-722-8792.

BLindS, SHutterS, SHadeS: motorization. 30 years on ami. call 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.

HandYman and Painting. no job too small. most jobs just right. call richard Kloss. 941-204-1162.

HOLLandS Paint, drYWaLL and handyman services: interior/exterior paint, drywall repair, wall/ceiling textures, stucco repair, pressure washing. Over 25 years’ experience. all work guaranteed. references. Licensed/insured. call dee, 256-337-5395.

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.

SaraSOta interiOr Painting: We specialize in high-end properties. We love to paint! Owner operated. fully insured/ licensed. call or text don, 941-900-9398. instagram: SarasotainteriorPainting.

the islander is essential news for residents and visitors. check out the website, islander. org.

HOME IMPROVEMENT Continued

dOnaLd PerKinS’ aBracadaBra Painting LLc. interior/exterior. 30 years of experience. 941-705-7096.

RENTALS

anna maria guLf beachfront vacation rentals. One- two- and three-bedroom units, all beachfront. www.amiparadise.com. 941778-3143.

VacatiOn 2023 SeaSOn: January, february, march, $5,000/month. 2022 pre-season, $2,000/month. 2Br/1Ba steps to beach, 55-plus condo, pool. real estate mart, 941356-1456.

retaiL SPace aVaiLaBLe! Best location on ami with incredible visibility and access. c&S Plaza, 5600 marina drive, Holmes Beach. 1,570 sf ready mid-november! Locations just don’t get better than this for traffic and exposure! george, 847-707-3859.

Wanted: SOOn-tO-be retired educators, married couple wants to celebrate our first month of freedom in paradise! Looking to lease for September 2023 (and perhaps longer). Prefer single-family house, pool and dog-friendly, but will consider other possibilities. tlcuster@charter.net

fOr rent: anna maria island Village townhouse on gulf drive. Ocean view. two-car garage. granite and stainless-steel eat-in kitchen. 3Br/3Ba. Large dining/living room. tV and internet. family room facing the gulf. Photos available. $2,600/month. call 941357-0877 or benjamin.n.woodard@gmail. com

REAL ESTATE

Winnie mcHaLe, reaLtOr, 941-5046146. rosebay international realty inc. You need an aggressive and experienced realtor in today’s market! Selling island homes, Sarasota and Bradenton areas. multi-milliondollar producer! “Selling Homes - making dreams come true.”

affOrdaBLe reaL eState services for buyers, sellers, property management or rentals. call fred flis, 941-356-1456.

LOt fOr SaLe. 10,000 sf buildable waterfront lot with utilities in Bradenton. dock with boat lift. Seawall maintained by city. $500,000. 917-860-1917.

PLACE CLASSIFIED ADS ONLINE AT ISLANDER.ORG

isl biz

By Kane Kaiman

Wanna Wawa?

Acai you in Anna Maria

The sign reads: Blueberries Cafe and Wine, proudly serving Cool Beans AMI coffee.

Kaiman

Thaina and Sergio Santinato, who opened Blueberries cafe in Holmes Beach in November 2021, partnered with neighbors Live Naturally, to rebrand Anna Maria Cool Beans AMI espresso shop at Bayfront Plaza in Anna Maria as a Blueberries cafe.

Ben and Morgan Bryant operate Live Naturally and Cool Beans.

“It’s a win-win because their coffee needed a little sprucing up, so to speak, and my food needed some sprucing up,” Ben Bryant said Oct. 19. “So, it was a no-brainer to just go into business together.”

After a renovation, the cafe reopened Oct. 15 featuring empanadas, arepas, acai bowls, fresh-squeezed juices and smoothies and heirloom coffee.

For dessert, the shop offers a twist on ice cream: acai sorbet, dressed up with coconut shavings, Nutella and other toppings.

For more, visit blueberriesusa.com or call 941-

896-4293; and also visit livenaturallyami.com or call 941-567-5299.

Victoria’s on the verge

Breakfast at Victoria’s will open its second location in Holmes Beach Oct. 31.

“It’s quite nice, it’s quite nice,” owner Luigi Raso said Oct. 19 about being on the brink of opening.

Luigi and his wife and co-owner, Eleanora, cut the ribbon and popped a bottle of Champagne Oct. 17 at a ceremony at the eatery, 5315 Gulf Drive, orchestrated by the Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce.

“There was a lot of emotion,” Raso said. “Because there’s been a lot of work behind this.”

For breakfast and lunch, the Italian-American cafe-bakery features avocado toast, blueberry orange pancakes, focaccia and porcuetta sandwiches.

At night, the restaurant will offer a selection of imported wines and small plates, including charcuterie and seafood boards and flatbreads.

Victoria’s will open 8 a.m.-3 p.m. daily for breakfast and lunch and 5-9 p.m. for wine and light bites.

The couple also owns a location in Sarasota, 4141 S. Tamiami Trail Unit #10.

The restaurants are named after the Rasos’ 5-yearold daughter. Two menu items — a breakfast combo and porchetta sandwich — are named after their nearly 2-year-old daughter, Sophia.

For more information, visit breakfastatvictorias. com or call 941-923-6441.

You wanna hoagie?

After months of buzz and construction, a Wawa convenience store/gas station opened Oct. 20 at the southeastern corner of the Manatee Avenue and 75th Street West in Bradenton.

The store, 7415 Manatee Ave., opened at 8 a.m. and staff provided “Goose Vibes Only” T-shirts to the first 100 customers.

REALTY EST.

on

Maria Island.

Norman-Ellis. 941.778.6696

Mike Norman Realty

Breakfast at Victoria’s owner eleonora raso pops a bottle as her husband and co-owner cuts the ribbon Oct. 17 for the new Holmes Beach restaurant. glenn glubiak, tan shorts, and Paul Shepherd, to his right, are business partners in the venture. islander Photo: courtesy amicofc

At the opening, Wally Goose, the outfit’s mascot, cut a ribbon with oversized scissors and staff announced the results of a customer fundraiser for Hurricane Ian relief with a check to the American Red Cross.

The store also hosted a “Hoagies for Heroes” hoagie-building competition between first responders from the Bradenton Police and Bradenton Fire departments. Following the competition, staff presented $1,000 checks for each department’s charity of choice.

Wawa is offering 25 cents off per gallon of gas when purchased with the Wawa app through Oct. 30.

For more information, visit wawa.com.

Got biz news? Contact Kane Kaiman at kane@ islander.org or at 941-778-7978.

BizCal compiled by Kane Kaiman

Monday, Oct. 31 3:30-6:30 p.m. — Trail of Treats, chamber office, 5313 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. Info: 941-778-1541, becky@amichamber.org.

AMI CHAMBER

Bradenton mayor gene Brown, center in jacket, takes part in an Oct. 20 opening ceremony for Wawa at 75th Street West and manatee avenue in Bradenton. islander Photo: courtesy Wawa