The Islander Newspaper E-Edition Wednesday, March. 18, 2020 by The Anna Maria Islander Newspaper

Bridge battle. 4 Pier planning. 5

Polling, results. 3

MARCH 18, 2020 free

VOLUME 28, NO. 21 Astheworldterns work on social distancing. 6

Meetings. 4 Census invites mailed. 4

Opinions. 6 10-20 YEARS AGO

Looking back. 7

MCAT touts tracking tech. 8

RoadWatch. 8 Legislature lingers amid CoVID-19 concerns. 9

The Best News on Anna Maria Island Since 1992

islander.org

COVID-19 cautions spark cancellations By Lisa Neff Islander editor

The datebook got messy. March 12 was the day Anna Maria Island groups and institutions announced the first round of event cancellations, taking precautions and safeguards as COVID-19, the new coronavirus, was declared a global

pandemic. Calls came into The Islander’s newspaper office. Notices arrived via email to editors’ accounts. And posts popped up on Facebook. First with a notice, the Artists’ Guild Gallery in Holmes Beach decided to cancel

the March 13 artists’ reception and paintaround fundraiser to help the nonprofit group raise rent money for the gallery. “I am sorry to bring you this news,” Sharon Tarras, AGAMI president said, citing “health risks posed by the coronavirus.” Soon after, Island Gallery West in PLeASe, See CANCellAtioNs, PAGe 2

AM hears pleas, revises building moratorium. 9

Happenings Announcements.

Check the date. School canceled until March 30.

d e l e c n

Where’s Tuna Street?

Gathering. Artist’s Guild seeks financial help.

GoodDeeds. HB ramps up for spring break.

Streetlife. County discusses Coquina trees.

Sunny, hot and keep your distance. Sports on AMI. Fishing runs hot for spring breakers.

ISL BIZ Buying, selling, opening on AMI.

PropertyWatch. Classifieds.

NYT puzzle.

Rebecca Boughner of Fort Wayne, Indiana, exits the Artists’ Guild Gallery after browsing March 12. The gallery, operated by the Artists’ Guild of Anna Maria Island in the Island Shopping Center at 5414 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, canceled its reception and fundraiser March 13 due to concerns about CoVID-19. Islander Photo: Lisa Neff

Cedar Cove Resort and Cottages, 2710 Gulf Drive N., Holmes Beach, had no vacancies March 13, as spring breakers continued to arrive on Anna Maria Island. Islander Courtesy Photo: Alan Sneed

State, cities take measures against COVID-19 COVID-19 challenges By Ryan Paice state employees. Islander Reporter He also recommended local municipal- local, state tourism From the NBA to Anna Maria Island, the impact of COVID-19 is being felt almost everywhere. The state, county and all three cities on Anna Maria Island are taking precautions to prevent the spread of the new coronavirus, which had infected 136 Florida residents and resulted in four deaths in the state as of March 16, according to the Florida Department of Health. Four confirmed cases of the coronavirus had been reported in Manatee County as of March 16. And, with 514 pending test results in the state on that date, the race to counter the virus was underway. Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis suspended nonessential travel March 12 for 30 days for

EatHereFlorida.com (941) 778-0411 5315 Gulf Drive • Holmes Beach

ities cancel mass gatherings. Some health agencies have described mass gatherings as 1,000 or more but others have said 50 or more people. DeSantis, who declared a state of emergency for COVID-19 by executive order March 9, said in a news release the state ordered an additional 2,500 test kits for the virus, allowing the health department to test up to 625,000 people. Manatee County commissioners also were set to consider declaring a state of emergency by executive order March 16, after The Islander’s press deadline. The county canceled workshops set for March 17 but said other events would be held and buildings would be open. That

PLeASe, See stAte, Cities, PAGe 3

By Sandy Ambrogi Islander Reporter

It seems if it’s not one thing it’s another. Tourism on Anna Maria Island bounced back after the red tide siege of 2018 and outperformed previous years of resort tax collections, but now businesses are facing the coronavirus crisis — COVID-19. Elliott Falcione, executive director of the Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau, has weathered hurricanes, red tides and other disruptions to the flow of business in Manatee County. Now he is negotiating messages dealing with a novel virus with no precedent. “We are communicating daily with PLeASe, See tourism, PAGe 5

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CANCellAtioNs CoNTINueD FRoM PAGe 1

Holmes Beach also canceled its March 13 artist reception and the Anna Maria Island Privateers postponed their Thieves Market set for March 14. The largest St. Patrick’s Day parade in the southeast also got sidelined, as founder and organizer Sean Murphy announced March 12 the postponement of the Irish-themed celebration he’d booked for March 15 in Holmes Beach. Murphy, owner of the Doctor’s Office, Beach Bistro and Eat Here in Holmes Beach, provided a notice framed in Kelly green that ended with a shamrock: “The Irish are good at tragedy … and hilarity. Our history abounds with famines and celebrations. “In an effort to take all measures available to help ensure public safety and at the request of our chief of police and emergency services we are postponing our annual St. Patrick’s Day parade until a time when public gatherings are more carefree.” The announcement indicated the holiday would be celebrated “a little later in the year.” The Center of Anna Maria Island also made a major cancelation, postponing the annual tour of homes — one of the nonprofit’s largest fundraisers — to 2021. The tour of five homes had been scheduled for March 21. “The center’s No. 1 priority is the safety of our members, volunteers, participants and staff,” read a statement from the center. “With concerns about COVID-19, we have made the decision to postpone the 27th Annual Tour of Homes until next year.” The center said tickets purchased for $25 each could be redeemed on the 2021 tour and tickets sold for the raffle of the tour of homes quilt also would be honored in 2021. The center also postponed The Grass Roots concert set for March 19 until December. As of March 14, the center, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria, planned to stay open to offer fitness classes, youth programs and sports. “We will continue to stay informed and make decisions based on the information and recommendations

from health officials,” the center notice read. “If this changes, we will send out emails and post on our social media to make sure everyone is informed on all of the decisions we make.” At the Annie Silver Community Center in Bradenton Beach, the decision was made to cancel Thursday night bingo games for the rest of the season, as well as a roasted-chicken community dinner, set for March 20. “We are sorry for the short notice, but due to the virus concerns and close quarters at the center, we have made this decision,” read a notice from Linda Yarger of the center. “Hope to see you next January.” The Anna Maria Island Garden Club also announced a calendar change — the annual flower show scheduled for March 18 at Roser Memorial Community Church would not take place. And the AMI/West Manatee Democratic Club canceled its March meeting in Bradenton. Local sports also took a hit, as Major League Baseball canceled the remainder of spring training March 12 and pushed back the start of the regular season for MLB and minor league ball at least two weeks. At LECOM Park in Bradenton, the Pittsburgh

COVID-19 hotline info

The Manatee Health Department encourages people to call a hotline if they suspect they have COVID-19 based on symptoms of a fever, cough and shortness of breath. The county hotline is 941-242-6649. The Florida Department of Health also operates a hotline at 866-779-6121. The state’s website for more information is www.floridahealth.gov/diseases-and-conditions/ COVID-19/. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s website is www.cdc.gov/ coronavirus/2019-ncov/.

Pirates played one final exhibition game before the premature end of their training days. The Pirates took on the Toronto Blue Jays March 12 and lost 7-5. “I flew down to see the Pirates and Twins and I’m really sorry I won’t get to see that game,” said baseball fan and Minnesotan Carla Lewis. “But we need to keep everyone safe and healthy.” The cancellations came in a wave as more organizations and institutions at home and around the world heeded public health officials calls for “social distancing” to slow the rate of infections by reducing exposure and keeping people at higher risk — those over age 60 and those with chronic medical conditions — from crowds. As cancellations multiplied, some groups took a wait-and-see approach but, by the weekend, issued cancellation notices. The Island Players had sent an email to ticketholders March 11 that read in part, “The health and safety of our audiences is of the highest importance to us. We are continuing to monitor the situation closely and are prepared for many scenarios. Currently, all performances at the Island Players’ theater are continuing as planned.” But March 14, the theater group canceled those performances. The Friends of the Island Library also canceled a book sale set for March 20-21 at the Holmes Beach institution. Meanwhile, some island institutions provided and promoted alternative means of participating. Roser Memorial Community Church, for example, continued to hold activities and worship at 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, but also reminded worshippers they can watch live-streaming of 10 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. services at roserchurch.com/worship.

Call & confirm!

The Islander suggests readers check for cancellations or rescheduled activities due to safety measures to deal with COVID-19.

March 18, 2020 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 3 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Polling for pres on AMI

stAte, Cities CoNTINueD FRoM PAGe 1

could have changed with a state of emergency. Meanwhile, island officials in instituted some precautions. Anna Maria Mayor Dan Murphy said March 12 that the city installed hand-sanitizer stations at entrances to city hall, as well as at the public works department and the base of the Anna Maria City Pier. He informed the commission at a March 12 meeting of a possible need to cancel public events, including a Memorial Day parade and celebration at City Pier Park. The mayor said he plans to compile a list of possible event cancellations and recommendations. The city also announced March 16 that it canceled the farmersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; market scheduled for Tuesdays at City Pier Park. The weekly market was supposed run through May 12. In Holmes Beach, Mayor Judy Titsworth told The Islander March 13 that the city placed a hand-sanitizer in the lobby of city hall, along with signs instructing visitors to use it. Titsworth was meeting with staff March 16. She observed the Beach Bistro St. Patrickâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day Parade in Holmes Beach was canceled, heeding the advice against mass gatherings. Holmes Beach Police Chief Bill Tokajer said March 13 the police department is taking precautions and officers are not responding to calls from people experiencing flu symptoms. â&#x20AC;&#x153;In the past, we responded to all medical calls with the ambulance to assist,â&#x20AC;? the chief said. But heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s halting the HBPD respond to flu calls unless itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s determine law enforcement is needed. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s safest to let the medical professionals handle it.â&#x20AC;? In Bradenton Beach, Police Lt. John Cosby said city staff discussed the COVID-19 situation at a March 13 meeting. He said the city ordered sanitation stations for city hall entrances, the police department and Tingley Memorial Library. Cosby said disinfectants were placed in city offices and employees were directed to frequently wash their

Holmes Beach resident Terry Dunsford uses a sanitizer March 13 provided by Holmes Beach at the entrance to city hall to prevent the spread of CoVID19. And, right, the notice from Beach Bistro owner Sean Murphy canceling the annual St. Patrickâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day Parade. Islander Photo: Courtesy Holmes Beach

hands. Additionally, public works employees disinfected door handles at city buildings. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re doing what everybody else is doing,â&#x20AC;? Diaz said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We went over the county emergency operations list and what theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re advising their employees, and weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re in the same line they are.â&#x20AC;? Cosby said as of March 12 the city had no plans to suspend city activities, including public meetings. The police department, he said, had no new policy

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Voting in Floridaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s presidential preference primary was to take place 7 a.m.-7 p.m. Tuesday, March 17. PPP voters in Anna Maria, Precinct 301, will cast ballots that day at Roser Memorial Community Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Voters in Bradenton Beach, Precinct 307, will cast ballots at the Bradenton Beach Fire Hall, 201 Second St., Bradenton Beach. In Holmes Beach, where there are two precincts, ballots for both Precinct 303 and Precinct 305 will be cast at St. Bernard Catholic Church, 248 S. Harbor Drive, Holmes Beach. The Republican ballot contains four candidates. The Democratic ballot contains 18 candidates. Voters casting ballots at the polls must bring a valid photo ID. Also, Florida has a closed primary election and only voters registered with the respective parties can cast ballots. The supervisor of elections has sent a notice reminding voters that a number of candidates have suspended their campaigns. For more information about voting, go online to votemanatee.com. For early and unofficial results from the island, go online to islander.org after 7 p.m. March 17. â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Lisa Neff

or procedures to prevent the spread of the virus to officers, but the risk is almost unavoidable. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Obviously, in our line of work itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hard,â&#x20AC;? he said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Contact with people is what we do.â&#x20AC;? He added that he expected contact with people to increase because, he said, coronavirus wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t slow spring tourism. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s getting worse,â&#x20AC;? he said of traffic in the city. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a concern. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s such a transient population.â&#x20AC;? Bradenton Beach Mayor John Chappie did not respond to two calls March 11-12 from The Islander.

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Cortez megabridge opponents ask feds for low-bridge option By Arthur Brice The Islander

Bridge Battle

Opponents of the planned Cortez megabridge have taken their fight to federal court. Former Manatee County Commissioners Joe McClash and Jane von Hahmann and two long-time Cortez residents filed a lawsuit March 10 in U.S. District Court in Tampa. They’re opposed to the Florida Department of Transportation’s plan to replace the Cortez Bridge with a 65-foot-clearance fixed span. The high bridge opponents want the DOT to instead build a 35-foot-clearance bascule bridge. “There’s a viable option that the DOT has,” McClash told The Islander March 13. “It’s not like we don’t want you to build the bridge at all. The bridge, in reality, needs to be replaced.” Von Hahmann, a Cortez resident for 43 years, said the big bridge will affect her personally, especially if increased traffic causes backups on Cortez Road. “They’re impacting my quality of life and the value of the historical village,” she said in a March 13 interview with The Islander. “I’m going to McClash suffer even more because of pollution from cars sitting there.” The DOT did not answer a request for comment before The Islander’s publishing deadline but has declined on two previous occasions in the past von Hahmann few months to weigh in on litigation against the megabridge by the four opponents. In addition to the federal suit, McClash, von Hahmann and 35-year Cortez resident Linda Molto and 20-year resident Joe Kane have asked the Florida 2nd District Court of Appeal to grant a hearing by a state administrative officer on whether to overturn the DOT’s plans. The opponents filed the appeal Feb. 14 and McClash estimates it could take the court three months to render a decision. The DOT maintains legal challenges in state court are invalid because the agency is acting on behalf of the federal government its replacement plan. McClash said he talked by telephone with DOT District Secretary LK Nandam and other agency officials Jan. 24. The DOT requested the conference, McClash said, to make sure megabridge opponents understood their rights to file a federal challenge. “I got the sense they wanted to try to get us to drop the (state) appeal and just do the federal complaint,” McClash said. Von Hahmann said the bridge opponents filed the federal suit because the DOT “required it of us.” “They told us, ‘You’re not going to win in the state of Florida because we’re acting for the federal govern-

ment,’” von Hahmann said. “I’m not sure how you separate those powers. It’s federal money but a state agency.” Megabridge opponents maintain the high span will destroy the character of the fishing village, designated a federal historic district in 1995. McClash also said in his federal filing that the large bridge would hurt businesses because they would be more difficult to reach and that the high span would damage the fragile coastal environment. Many Cortez residents have fought a span since the DOT revealed Molto a previous replacement megabridge in 1989. The agency withdrew that plan after fierce opposition from Cortez and Bradenton Beach residents. The DOT then turned its attention to replacing the Anna Maria drawbridge on State Road 64 with a Kane 65-foot-clearance fixed span. Planning for that bridge is now a few years further along than for the Cortez span. McClash, who served on the county commission 1990-2012, noted in his federal filing that he was involved in a compromise with DOT officials in the early 1990s that the Anna Maria Island Bridge would become a fixed span and the Cortez one would remain a drawbridge. That deal was made to avoid future challenges, the brief says. The agreement was verbal, McClash told The Islander. “Technically, there is no binding agreement,” he said. “But people should be aware there were agreements.” Officials on Longboat Key have supported the high span because motorists rely on the Cortez Bridge and the Longboat Pass Bridge to access the town at the northern end. The DOT has announced it is conducting formal studies to also replace the Longboat Pass drawbridge with a 65-foot-clearance fixed span. “It’s being driven a lot by Longboat Key,” von Hahmann said. “But I don’t think it provides a big enough advantage.” Von Hahmann and other critics of the Cortez high span note that it would replace a two-lane bridge with

Anna Maria City

708-5800, holmesbeachfl.org.

Meetings

March 20, 2 p.m., planning and zoning. March 23, 10 a.m., Love AMI. March 26, 6 p.m., city commission. April 9, 2 p.m., commission. April 17, 2 p.m., planning and zoning. April 23, 6 p.m., commission.

Anna Maria City Hall, 10005 Gulf Drive, 941-7086130, cityofannamaria.com.

Bradenton Beach

West Manatee Fire Rescue

March 24, 6 p.m., commission. DATE CHANGE WMFR administration building, 6510 Third Ave. W., Bradenton, wmfr.org.

Manatee County

March 24, 9 a.m., county commission. April 2, 9 a.m., county commission (land use). April 7, 9 a.m., county commission. April 21, 9 a.m., county commission. Administration building, 1112 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton, 941-748-4501, mymanatee.org.

March 18, 1 p.m., planning and zoning. March 19, 11 a.m., pier team. March 19, noon, commission. Of interest March 24, 10 a.m., commission. March 23, 9:30 a.m., Sarasota/Manatee MPO Bradenton Beach City Hall, 107 Gulf Drive N., Board, MPO offices, 7632 15th St. E., Sarasota. 941-778-1005, cityofbradentonbeach.com. March 30, 9 a.m., Manatee County Tourist Development Council, Administration building, 1112 ManaHolmes Beach tee Ave. W., Bradenton, March 24, 6 p.m., city commission. April 10, Good Friday, some island government April 1, 10 a.m., parks and beautification. offices and institutions will be closed. County offices April 1, 6 p.m., planning. are not closed. April 14, 6 p.m., city commission. Send listings to calendar@islander.org and news@ April 23, 11:30 a.m., police pension. islander.org. Holmes Beach City Hall, 5801 Marina Drive, 941-

another two-lane bridge. And westbound motorists still would have to contend with a chokepoint where Cortez Road meets the two-lane Gulf Drive in Bradenton Beach. “They’re not solving a problem,” she said. “They’re exacerbating westbound traffic. They’re not solving Longboat Key’s problem.” The DOT contends that not having to stop traffic while the drawbridge is raised would save motorists time. But critics say those time savings are negligible, particularly because more vessels would not need the bridge raised if it has a 35-foot clearance as compared with the current 17 feet. “A 35-foot drawbridge would reduce the existing bridge openings and reduce traffic impacts,” the lawsuit states. In addition, the suit states, a 65-foot-clearance fixed span would prevent boats needing higher clearance from passing underneath. The transportation agency announced in October 2019 it would start work on a $6.2 million design plan to replace the 63-year-old Cortez Bridge. McClash filed a petition less than three weeks later for an administrative hearing on 25 objections to the plan. The DOT rejected that petition Nov. 13 and McClash appealed Nov. 22. The transportation agency rejected it Dec. 10. McClash then appealed to the state court. The Cortez Bridge underwent major repairs in 1996, 2010 and 2015. The DOT says it’s not economically viable to make further repairs. The agency estimates new construction will cost more than $70 million and wouldn’t be completed for at least another 10 years. McClash and von Hahmann are guardedly optimistic about their legal challenges. “It’s a chance you have to take,” von Hahmann said. “I’m hopeful they’ll have an open mind and open ears.” Said McClash: “The more research I did, the better I felt about it.”

2020 census invites mailed

Be counted as an islander. Answer the 2020 census invitation arriving via mail this week or next. About 95% or about 143 million households in the United States will receive a mailed initial invitation to respond to the 2020 census. The invites were going out March 12-20. The U.S. Census Bureau, in a news release, said households are encouraged to respond when they receive their invitation. About 112 million households in the United States will receive either an invitation encouraging them to respond online or by phone and another 31 million households will receive an invitation along with a paper questionnaire. Households receiving an invitation in the mail also will receive a second letter in the mail reminding them to respond. Households that fail to respond to the initial invites still will receive a series of additional reminders, including a paper questionnaire in mid-April. In 2010, the census set the population in Anna Maria at 1,503, down 17.1% from 1,814 in 2000; 1,171 in Bradenton Beach, down 10.6% from 1,482 in 2000; and 3,836 in Holmes Beach, down 22.8% from 4,966 in 2000. For more information about the census, go online to census.gov. — Lisa Neff

Socializing: The Islander has an active

Facebook community of more than 14,500 followers. To join the conversation, follow The Islander on Facebook. We provide a direct link to our page at islander.org, where we have more than 3,800 registered users. The Islander also has an active Twitter feed, where alert readers can comment.

March 18, 2020 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 5 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

tourism continued from page 1

the county emergency management, the state health department and the Centers for Disease Control so we can effectively and accurately communicate to our tourists,” Falcione wrote to The Islander March 12. “Like all adverse occurrences, we will always be transparent and honest with the marketplace,” he continued. On March 11, President Donald Trump announced a 30-day travel ban for most European countries. It began March 13 at midnight and applies to all foreignborn people who have been in Europe within the past 14 days. Trump also announced on March 14 the extension of the travel ban to the United Kingdom and Ireland beginning March 16. The ban does not apply to U.S. citizens or legal permanent residents and their families. Mark Stuckey, senior vice president and chief operating officer of the Sarasota-Manatee International Airport told The Islander in an email the travel ban will only have a “slight impact on SRQ as the majority of international passengers using SRQ are domestic.” Vacation rentals on AMI Jen Bowman of Keller Williams on the Water, with offices in Holmes Beach and Bradenton Beach, deals in rentals, as well as homes for sale. Bowman told The Islander March 13 they saw some cancellations on rentals due to coronavirus. “I think some people are afraid to travel and we

have had at least one cancel due to the European travel ban. We are refunding because we feel it’s the right thing to do,” she said. Bowman said some travel insurance policies apparently do not cover losses for virus cancellations. “It will only be covered if they took the full insurance and not just medical, which does not cover it,” she said. Bowman said she’s confident the cancellations would be booked by other vacationers.. “I see people on Facebook still looking for lodging for spring break on Anna Maria Island,” she said. “We are optimistic.” Meanwhile, Falcione said the BACVB had a thirdparty organization monitoring short-term rental cancellations and she expected a report in a few weeks. “We have a steady business coming into our community and we believe that our statewide business will remain strong,” Falcione said.

are taking to safeguard grocery shoppers, including a heightened disinfection program in all stores, keeping supplies on shelves and using alternative shopping methods, such as delivery for those people who need such measures. On March 13, Publix announced stores would close nightly at 8 p.m. to allow for sanitation and restocking, but toilet paper, bleach, hand-sanitizer and wipes remained scarce on the shelves. As for tourism promotions, Falcione said the BACVB “will evaluate all other markets outside of Florida weekly so we know whether or not to continue to advertise our destination at this point in time.” The Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce continues to issue updates concerning the coronavirus outbreak. The latest update March 13 announced the activation of a business damage assessment, with a link to the survey for local businesses. “We continue to reach out to our businesses,” chamber president Terri Kinder said March 16, adding Business on AMI that the Beach ‘N Food Truck Festival was postponed On AMI, Sherman Baldwin of the Bradenton indefinitely and the chamber’s tourism at the Manatee Beach Area Merchants sent a news release March XX Public Beach was closed to “protect our workers.” saying the members are open for business. “You just need to take a short ride to Bradenton More on COVID-19 risks Beach. Add to it our pristine beaches, parasailing, boat For more information on coronavirus in Florida, tours, boat rentals to putt-putt golf, we have it all,” visit the health department’s COVID-19 webpage at Baldwin stated. www.floridahealth.gov/covid-19. In an effort to reassure locals and travelers, Publix If you suspect you may have COVID-19, call 941Super Market chief executive officer Todd Jones issued 242-6649 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Friday or emailing a statement March 12 concerning actions the stores covid-19@flhealth.gov.

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Love AMI Task Force members gather March 9 at Anna Maria City Hall, 10005 Gulf Drive, to plan a community party for the opening of the new Anna Maria City Pier. Islander Photo: ChrisAnn Allen

Bring the Family, Spend the Day

AM City Pier inches toward opening By ChrisAnn Allen Islander Reporter

“It won’t be too much longer,” Anna Maria Mayor Dan Murphy said March 11 of opening the new Anna Maria City Pier during a meeting of the Coalition of Barrier Island Elected Officials in Holmes Beach. And the community is ready for a celebration. Led by Anna Maria Commissioner Carol Carter, residents of AMI municipalities gathered March 9 at Anna Maria City Hall, 10005 Gulf Drive, for a meeting of the Love AMI Task Force. The group is planning an “unofficial” celebration for May 30 under the shade sails at the City Pier Park — on the corner of Pine Avenue and North Bay Boulevard in Anna Maria — to celebrate the new pier. The original pier opened in 1911, but was closed after it was damaged by Hurricane Irma in 2017. The old pier was demolished and the city began construction on a new pier in 2018. Murphy told The Islander March 11 that Florida Power and Light workers installed the transformers and a pole required for electrical service. Since that work is done, contractor Mason Martin of Holmes Beach can finish work on buildings at the T-end that will

eventually house a restaurant, bathrooms and bait shop. The mayor also said the area at the pier entrance was fenced off March 13 while excavation and connections are made for utilities. A grand opening date has not yet been set but Murphy said the matter would be addressed at the city commission meeting at 6 p.m. Thursday, March 26, at city hall. The city had hoped to open the pier in late March or April, but that could be impacted by COVID-19. Meanwhile, Love AMI is planning to host “Pier Party 2020,” unless that is delayed by COVID-19. A draft mission statement declares the group’s intent is “to promote a sense of community across Anna Maria Island that attracts and maintains residents,” and “to develop sponsor and/or host events that engage AMI residents, fosters community connections and promotes a sense of pride for AMI.” Party plans include live music, a video on the history of the pier, children’s activities and a champagne toast at sunset. The next AMI Love Task Force meeting will be at 10 a.m. Monday, March 23, at Anna Maria City Hall. The public is encouraged to attend and anyone can become a member.

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Page 6 THE ISLANDER | islander.org March 18, 2020 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Opinion

Our

Mixed messages

Be vigilant. Use precautions. Self-quarantine if possible. Wash, wash, wash hands. And wash hands again. Sanitize. Get tested. Well, maybe not. For younger generations, this may be a first instance of epidemic or pandemic. For those of us in the “older” bracket, maybe you recall polio and the fear of living in an iron lung? I recall seeing children in the lung machines on TV, and it was quite scary to watch as a youngster. Most of us managed to survive measles and chicken pox with only mild scars. Now, in this era of novel coronavirus and theCOVID-19 disease, we have come to view the world differently. Few may be spared from at least a friend or familial connection to this rapidly spreading disease that is most fatal among the elderly, especially people with risk factors, which include threatened immune systems and heart and respiratory diseases. While we were told we could all be tested — if so desired — the next minute we learned only people with symptoms should be tested. Then they say some people who have no symptoms, can indeed be infected and unwittingly spreading the virus. A negative test one day is only one day. Whoa. Use caution they say. Avoid crowds. Maintain a “social distance.” No hugging or kissing cheeks. Avoid personal contact. Put off going to a crowded bar and opt for a quiet restaurant or home delivery. For now. This will unfold day to day. For The Islander office, we will be exercising social distance and hoping we can serve customers over the internet, by email, text and phone. People must come before business. Staff will work from home when possible. And our reporting guidelines will run the same gamut, until governments connect with streaming services or events and meetings are postponed. BE SAFE. And wash, wash, wash your hands. We won’t let you down on the news. We’re here for our community. — Bonner Joy

MARCH 18, 2020 • Vol. 28, No. 21 Publisher and Editor Bonner Joy, news@islander.org ▼ Editorial Lisa Neff, editor, lisa@islander.org ChrisAnn Allen, chrisann@islander.org Sandy Ambrogi, sandy@islander.org Joe Bird, editorial cartoonist Kevin Cassidy, kevin@islander.org Michael Dunn, michael@islander.org Jack elka, jack@jackelka.com Brook Morrison, brook@islander.org Ryan Paice, ryan@islander.org ▼ Contributors Arthur Brice, arthur@islander.org Sarah Brice, sarah@islander.org Jesse Brisson Leslie Lake, leslie@islander.org Karen Riley-Love Capt. Danny Stasny, fish@islander.org ▼ Advertising Director Toni Lyon, toni@islander.org ▼ Office Staff Lisa Williams, office manager Vicki McIntyre, office assistant, reader advocate info@, accounting@, classifieds@, subscriptions@islander.org ▼ Distribution urbane Bouchet Judy Loden Wasco Ross Roberts (All others: news@islander.org) ▼

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Opinion

Your

Paddles up

We want to thank our Anna Maria Island Dragon Boat Festival sponsors, who made it possible to have our first festival March 7. Their gracious support allowed this successful festival to take place. Also, a big thanks to our fans and supporters, who came out with such great enthusiasm to carry our three teams to medals in a very competitive dragon boat festival. All the paddlers and supporters contributed more than 1,200 pounds of food for our festival partner, the Food Bank of Manatee. Besides more than 40 club teams, we had six community teams participate in the festival: the cities of Anna Maria and Longboat Key, Holmes Beach Mighty Dragons, Hancock Whitney Bank, Mainsail Vacation Rentals and the Spartans. These community teams brought fun and excitement and made this a true community event. Congratulations to the island city champions, Longboat Key, as well as the community business champions, the Spartans. Melinda Bradway, Holmes Beach, AMI Paddlers from Paradise coach

Letters to the editor

The Islander accepts original letters of up to 250 words and reserves the right to edit for grammar and length. Letters must include a name, address and contact phone number (for verification). Anonymous letters will not be printed. Email your opinion to news@islander.org.

Big attraction

In September 2017, the Anna Maria City Pier was damaged. The current status of the new pier opening remains vague. Merchants, landlords and the residents of the city of Anna Maria pay a fair amount of property taxes. Renters pay a lot of resort taxes. So, a suggestion: Please, have some editorial courage and hold the Anna Maria major and city commission accountable for their non-actions. Blaming the pier non-opening on the power company is simply not acceptable. The need for power on the new pier has been known since the power on the old pier was shut off. Having no restroom facilities on the pier is another non-reason to delay opening. There are municipal restroom facilities less that 150 feet from the pier. It is time for you to get your big-person pants on and ask some real questions. Don’t continue to simply report the latest excuse. If the pier is really a tourist attraction, why shouldn’t it be operational? Steve Parker, unknown

Your news online Find The Islander dating to November 1992 at the uofF Digital Newspaper Collection at ufdc.ufl.edu.

March 18, 2020 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 7 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

From the archives

Airport address A home next to the old airstrip in Holmes Beach features a garage for a plane. The photograph is dated April 1971. Islander Photos: Courtesy Manatee County Library System

10&20 years ago

From the March 15, 2000, issue

• Holmes Beach voters returned incumbents Roger Lutz and Sandy Haas-Martens to the Holmes Beach City Commission and defeated a referendum to extend the term of commissioners from two years to four years. • Mario Schoenfelder, owner of the Rod & Reel Pier in Anna Maria, submitted a proposal to the city to repair the Anna Maria City Pier and accompanying equipment in exchange for a 10-year lease of the pier restaurant. Mayor Gary Deffenbaugh said the city couldn’t afford the estimated $800,000 cost to restore the pier. • A planned presentation by Arvida Corp. to the Bradenton Planning Commission about the company’s proposed 868-unit condominium project for north Perico Island was postponed after company officials said they were not ready. Island and Palma Sola nonprofits and homeowners associations had planned to protest the project.

From the March 17, 2010, issue

Rough landing An undated photograph shows the airstrip in Holmes Beach, which now is home to a municipal park. The city commission recently endorsed a plan to create an aviation-themed playground at the park.

• Anna Maria commissioners, during a special meeting, voted to proceed with a moratorium on new retail-office-residential to address development on Pine Avenue and Gulf Drive. • Baseball players complained to Holmes Beach officials that dog owners were interfering with activity at Birdie Tebbetts Field in city field. The mayor instructed public works staff to erect a sign, “No dogs permitted during ball playing activities.” • Anna Maria residents were among the first in the region to receive U.S. Census questionnaires because mail deliver in the city is to the post office. — Lisa Neff

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Island officials consider charity project, ScootCoupes By ChrisAnn Allen Islander Reporter

Sometimes it takes the island cities banning together to create change. During a Coalition of Barrier Island Elected Officials meeting March 11 at Holmes Beach City Hall, 5801 Marina Drive, elected officials from Anna Maria, Bradenton Beach, Holmes Beach and Longboat Key listened to a presentation on a possible charity project and discussed ScootCoupes, a three-wheeled vehicle available for rent in Anna Maria that some people claim are unsafe. Seven officials participated in the meeting: Anna Maria Mayor Dan Murphy and Commissioner Carol Carter, Bradenton Beach Mayor John Chappie, Holmes Beach Mayor Judy Titsworth and Commissioner Kim Rash, and Longboat Key Mayor George Spoll and town manager Tom Harmer. Rental donations The meeting began with a presentation by Shirley Pearson, Mayors Feed the Hungry Food Drive event organizer, and Joel Swallow, program chairman. They thanked island officials for helping with their food drive, which takes place annually before Thanksgiving. Pearson, also the director of the Mount Carmel Resource Center in Palmetto, which provides services to the needy, introduced Richie Bell, an island native who, along with his wife Stephanie, own Fran Maxon Real Estate in Anna Maria.

Shirley Pearson, Mayors Feed the Hungry Food Drive event organizer, and Richie Bell, co-owner of Fran Maxon Real estate in Anna Maria, listen March 11 as Joel Swallow, food drive chairman, addresses a Coalition of Barrier Island elected officials meeting at Holmes Beach City Hall, 5801 Marina Drive. Islander Photos: ChrisAnn Allen

Bell, who oversees rentals at the agency, said he is concerned by how many unused items left by vacation renters get thrown away, including toiletries, paper products and food. He said he spoke with Pearson about setting up bins at rentals for people to place nonperishable items for distribution at the resource center. Bell also spoke with representatives of other agencies, including Mike Norman Realty in Holmes Beach and Sato Real Estate in Anna Maria, who have expressed interest. A trial run with a few companies might be a good start, he said.

Transit agency touts tracking tech, app By Ryan Paice Islander Reporter

The latest upgrades to the bus and trolley systems have been a hit with riders. Manatee County Area Transit planning manager Ryan Suarez told The Islander March 6 that he has received a bevy of positive feedback regarding the implementation of “real time bus information” technology to the MCAT system, including the trolley fleet. “We have received lots of positive feedback from passengers,” Suarez wrote in an email. “Most recently, I was approached by passengers thankful for the digital message signs that are now at the stations. Those offer estimated arrival/departure times for all bus routes coming to those stations.” The technology allows people to monitor bus and trolley progress and their estimated arrival times at their location using an application called MyStop or the website realtimemcat.availtec.com/infopoint/. Suarez said signs displaying a QR code have been posted at MCAT transit stops to direct smartphones to information in either the application or the website, as well as provide a transit information hotline. The trolley fleet also has been equipped with informative digital displays on the headliner in the vehicles behind the driver. The screens display upcoming transit stops, as well as provide audible announcements. An agenda packet for the meeting explained the

Expanding public input is the goal. The Sarasota/Manatee Metropolitan Planning Organization is seeking additional public guidance. Executive director David Hutchinson told members of the Island Transportation Planning Organization March 9 that the MPO voted in January to expand its Citizens Advisory Committee, which provides public input to the transportation planning process into the Citizens Advisory Network. The members of the voluntary committee, which consisted of 28 residents from Sarasota and Manatee counties appointed by member jurisdictions, including the ITPO, will be retained as network members. As an added benefit, the revision removed the 28-member limit, allowing more people to become involved in the advisory group. Hutchinson told The Islander in a March 11 inter-

ScootCoupes Holmes Beach Police Chief Bill Tokajer led a discussion on ScootCoupes, three-wheeled scooter/cars with 49cc engines. Anna Maria has an agency renting the mini-cars, but Holmes Beach has prohibited rental of the vehicles and, according to Chappie, Bradenton Beach plans to discuss regulating them at an upcoming meeting. Tokajer said the vehicles ride dangerously low to the ground, with the driver sitting at eye level with a police vehicle’s bumper. He said the state includes the vehicles in the definition of “motorized scooter,” but this is not accurate. He said ScootCoupes can travel faster than 30 mph, but motorized scooters do not exceed 20 mph, according to state statute 316.003. “They have no real designation in Florida law as to what they are,” he said of ScootCoupes. Tokajer said the Florida Attorney General’s office suggested approaching state lawmakers to develop a stricter definition of the vehicles in 2021. He asked if the other cities would be interested in combining efforts to craft legislation for ScootCoupes. The mayors agreed and said they would speak with their city attorneys and lobbyists. The next BIEO meeting will be at 2 p.m. Wednesday, April 15, in the chambers at Longboat Key Town Hall, 501 Bay Isles Road.

Manatee County Area Transit offers “real time” trolley tracking via the MyStop app for smartphones. The app provides tracking for all MCAT services. Islander Photo: Screenshot

RoadWatch

RTBI technology will allow MCAT passengers “to make informed decisions about when to arrive at their bus stop and thereby minimize wait time.” “There is more coming, including next stop information onboard the vehicles, so this is developing even as we speak here,” Suarez wrote.

The Florida Department of Transportation and Manatee County posted the following alerts: • Cortez Road and 119th Street West in Cortez: Work to realign the intersection of 119th Street West on Cortez Road/State Road 684 continues. Ajax Paving Industries of Florida is the contractor on the project, estimated to cost $5 million and continue until fall 2020. The work involves resurfacing the roadway, improving drainage, constructing a sidewalk and installing new highway lighting. Drivers can expect lane closures on Cortez Road from 123rd Street West to 86th Street West 10 p.m.-6 a.m. and on the south side of 119th Street West during the same period. Pedestrians can expect sidewalk closures. Also, detours on 119th Street West will begin after Easter. For the latest road watch information, go online to fl511.com and swflroads.com or dial 511. • Multiple locations in Bradenton Beach: A Manatee County pipeline replacement project continues in Bradenton Beach, possibly into late summer. Impacted areas include Bay Drive South, Bridge Street, Church Avenue and Cortez Road. Construction in rights of way is expected, as well as increased truck traffic and heavy equipment operations. People — motorists and pedestrians — can expect detours.

MPO revises citizens advisory apparatus By Ryan Paice Islander Reporter

Titsworth suggested Bell and Pearson assemble a plan and speak separately with officials from each city for suggestions on how to proceed and other officials at the meeting agreed.

view that the MPO expanded the CAC because of struggles to sustain member involvement. To join CAN, a community, civic or commercial association — in compliance with the Florida Sunshine Law and access to public records of governing bodies — needs to become an MPO partner. Partner associations can nominate their members to serve. Nominations will then be considered by the MPO board for appointment. Elected officials and technical personnel involved in local transportation studies and projects cannot join the network in this fashion. CAN members serve two-year terms but can be reappointed by the MPO board. Hutchinson said CAN’s first meeting, scheduled for March 9, was canceled due to concerns with COVID-19, the new coronavirus. CAN’s next meeting will be 5 p.m. Monday, May 4, at the MPO offices, 8100 15th St. E., Sarasota.

Eyes on the road

— Lisa Neff

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State Legislature lingers amid COVID-19 concerns By ChrisAnn Allen Islander Reporter

March 13 was supposed to be the last day of the legislative session in Tallahassee. However, the session was extended to compile the budget, address the spread of COVID-19 and deal with concerns in Florida Health Department funding. Lawmakers say they need time to consider the more than $91 billion budget for the 2020-21 fiscal year that begins July 1. Holmes Beach lobbyist Martha Edenfield said March 12 that the tentative plan was to publish a budget without the budget-related bills and wrap up legislation March 13. Then, once the budget is inked, the Legislature would take a constitutionally mandated “cooling off” period on the budget. Session is set to resume March 18, press time for The Islander, for votes on the budget and related bills. Edenfield “That said, I would think that things could change,” Edenfield wrote The Islander March 12. “Especially with all of the concerns regarding travel.” However, according to Edenfield, it appears bills that were most troubling to island officials could be dead on arrival for the 2020-21 budget. House Bill 1011 filed by Rep. Jason Fischer, R-Jacksonville, and Senate Bill 1128 filed by Sen. Manny Diaz, R-Hialeah, would preempt regulation

‘

My fingers are crossed that we dodged a bullet again this year. — Jim Kihm, Holmes Beach commissioner

’

of vacation rentals to the state, but the bills have not progressed to a vote. “As session starts to wind down today, the vacation rental bills … are not available to be voted on,” she wrote The Islander March 13. “The Senate Bert Harris bill remains in the Senate Rules Committee and is likewise not available for a vote.” Anna Maria, Bradenton Beach and Holmes Beach have developed regulations for trash, noise, parking and occupancy issues at vacation rentals that would be eradicated if the bills are passed. However, in an alert early March 14, the Senate reported SB 1128 “indefinitely postponed and withdrawn from consideration.” Another bill of concern, House Bill 519, filed by Rep. James Grant, R-Tampa, would amend the Bert J. Harris Jr. Private Property Rights Act would revise notice of claim requirements and authorize property owners to bring claims against governmental entities without a formal application process, but the bill appears to be dead. The House reported HB 519 had been withdrawn from consideration March 14. Holmes Beach is a party in 28 pending Bert Harris

Act related lawsuits. Holmes Beach Commissioner Jim Kihm, the commission’s legislative liaison, said March 13 that he has been closely monitoring the bills and is pleased to see they will not be a threat — for now. Kihm “My fingers are crossed that we dodged a bullet again this year,” Kihm said. However, he said he wants to be prepared for what may arise in the 2021 session. “My question is: Can we do anything to be more effective next year?” Kihm said. He said at the ManaSota League of Cities March 13 meeting, the group announced that Scott Dudley, Florida League of Cities legislative director, would speak about the 2020 session at the next MSLC meeting at 9:30 a.m. Thursday, May 14, at Longboat Key Town Hall, 501 Bay Isles Road, Longboat Key. The ManaSota League of Cities is a group of nine city officials, each representing one of the municipalities in Manatee and Sarasota counties, that meet bimonthly to discuss issues affecting the cities. The Florida League of Cities helps municipalities with home rule advocacy. “It will be really helpful to hear from the state league about what we can do, as a community, to be better prepared to face this struggle again in 2021,” Kihm said. “We are facing a war of attrition here.”

Anna Maria revises building moratorium to waive hardships By Ryan Paice Islander Reporter

Property owners negatively impacted by Anna Maria’s temporary building moratorium soon may be able to seek relief. The moratorium applies to new single-family homes that have yet to enter the building permitting process and renovations that increase lot coverage or square footage. City commissioners voted 4-1 March 12 to add a provision to the moratorium ordinance allowing property owners to apply for hardship waivers to the temporary, 60-day moratorium on building permits. The initial moratorium was enacted March 4 to provide the building department unburdened time to address outdated city building codes and add impact fees, as well as problems not addressed in codes. Issues outlined in several “whereas” statements from the ordinance include overcrowding in public areas due to increasing numbers of people in large residences, rising sea levels, as well as infrastructure damages caused by development. The moratorium does not include work in progress, commercial properties or work already permitted for construction. However, city attorney Becky Vose said the city received requests for hardship exemptions after the moratorium was enacted. Holmes Beach resident Clint Hurdle, former manager of the Pittsburgh Pirates, welcomes a crowd to his sixth annual Hot Stove Dinner March 13 at Pier 22 in Bradenton to raise money for the Prader-Willi Syndrome Association’s family and medical support programs. The evening included dinner, live music and an auction of sports memorabilia. Hurdle estimated the night would raise more than $140,000 and said an anonymous donor is matching the money raised. Islander Photos: Lisa Neff

The new ordinance is identical to the last, but to address public feedback, it contains a provision outlining a process for seeking a hardship waiver. This involves property owners submitting a building permit application and building plans, as well as Murphy providing a basis for a hardship. The deadline for applications is 4 p.m. Tuesday, March 31. Mayor Dan Murphy will review and consider applications. If he denies an application, the applicant can appeal to the city commission. Commissioner Jonathan Crane voted no, stating that he’d rather send appeals of denied hardship waiver applications to a special magistrate for consideration rather than the city commission due to potential biases held by community members. Vose recommended otherwise, because special magistrates do not exercise discretionary authority. Darrin Wash of Holmes Beach-based Wash Family Construction told commissioners the hardship deadline may help some people, but others won’t be able to ready the documents before the deadline because planning for construction can be an extensive process that takes months. Jim Moss of Holmes Beach-based Moss Builders told commissioners he knows of several property

owners who might suffer financially because of the moratorium and won’t be able to meet the application deadline. The commission also is considering a six-month moratorium if the 60-day break doesn’t result in the desired code changes and impact fees. A first reading for the extension was March 4. Next is a review by the planning and zoning board at 2 p.m. Friday, March 20, at city hall, 10005 Gulf Drive N. Murphy said he’d continue to discuss potential changes with building official Luke Curtis and would like to schedule a meeting with contractors. “I truly believe that we will know within 50-60 days as to whether we can deliver this or not and, if we can’t deliver it, my recommendation back to you would be to stop this moratorium and figure out a different way,” Murphy said. He said he also may recommend enacting the six-month moratorium if enough progress is made by then. “I don’t want to work on this thing and give birth to a mouse,” Murphy added. “I want it to be something significant.” For now, the second reading for the six-month extension is tentatively scheduled for April 9, but Murphy said he’d return to the commission March 26 with an update. “Let’s see what progress we can make between now and March 26,” Murphy said.

Stepping up to the plate, the challenge, the mic

Former Pittsburgh Pirates pitcher Steve Blass tells baseball stories to the Hot Stove Dinner audience March 13 at Pier 22 in Bradenton. With humor and emotion, he recalled playing with Roberto Clemente, winning the World Series, hitting a homer at Wrigley Field and figuring out how to do laundry as a minor leaguer.

Hot Stove Dinner guests peruse the auction items — autographed jerseys, caps, baseballs and more — donated by friends of Clint Hurdle and PWSA.

Island happenings

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Center $100K in red since July, hopes high for spring By Ryan Paice Islander Reporter

Cheers to Cheer

TERRA’S

Handmade Sterling Jewelry

Artist John Cheer won best in show at the Anna Maria Island Art League’s March 7-8 Springfest, at city field in Holmes Beach. Cheer works in ceramics and glass. Jay Canterbury, photography, and Bianca Gedeon, jewelry, received awards of distinction. Awards of merit went to Nick Donatello for photography, Morris Johnson for mixed media and Ron Deel for oil and prints. Islander Courtesy Photo

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Pirates have a plan to gather in Cortez. The Anna Maria Island Privateers’ “One Night in Tortuga,” a party was planned for March 21 at the Seafood Shack, 4110 127th St. W., Cortez. But the planners may need to revise the date. Attendees will find music, dancing, raffles, merchants, a silent auction, food and grog in the Neptune Room with proceeds to benefit the Privateers’ scholarship fund. Silent auction packages include fishing charters, outdoor gear, sports memorabilia, salon services, box seats to a Rays game, a weekend holiday on Anna Maria Island and a “Privateer booze basket.” Tickets are $50. For more information, go online to amiprivateers. org.

Kiwanis Club resets meeting

The Kiwanis Club of Anna Maria Island canceled its March 21 meeting due to concerns about the new coronavirus and a precaution against the spread of COVID-19. The scheduled speaker, Manatee County Clerk of the Circuit Court Angelina “Angel” Colonneso, will now address the group Saturday, April 25. The meeting will be at 8:30 a.m. at the Anna Maria Island Beach Cafe at the Manatee Public Beach, 4000 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. For more information, call Sandy Haas-Martens at 941-778-1383.

Friends cancel March 20-21 Island Library book sale

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Friends of the Island Library canceled the book sale they planned to hold at the Island Library March 20-21. The Islander did not have notice as to whether the sale would be rescheduled this spring. The event typically features a friends-only preview sale. Memberships in the volunteer group can be purchased for $10 during library hours. For more information, call the library at 941-7786341.

Click! The Islander welcomes news of the milestones in readers’ lives. Send notices to news@islander.org.

The first half of the Center of Anna Maria Island’s fiscal 2019-20 was rough. But hopes run high for a busy spring among staff and some members of the board. The nonprofit made $48,730.63 in December 2019 and $9,314.64 in January — signaling the worst may be over for the center after it lost $103,517 in net income over the first seven months of the fiscal year, which began July 1, 2019. Executive director Chris Culhane said at a March 9 board meeting that he expects the center to finish the year in the black. February and March income should help dig the nonprofit out of the red, he said. Culhane Culhane said the center received about $62,000 from the Allen G. Hegarty and Marjorie W. Hegarty charitable remainder unitrust left for the nonprofit in February. The center budgeted making $50,000 in net income for February. The center projected about $18,000 in net income in its budget for March, but concerns with the spread of COVID-19, or the new coronavirus, may have hurt that possibility. As a precaution, the nonprofit canceled the annual tour of homes — a large fundraising event featuring island homes — scheduled for March 21. The nonprofit will remain open for fitness, sports and youth programs, according to the center’s website on March 16. Culhane said canceling the tour would result in about $25,000 in lost revenue for March, bringing the month’s projected income to a $7,000 loss. Accordingly, expectations for the fiscal year must be kept in check. “Nonprofits aren’t supposed to make a lot of money,” board chair David Zaccagnino said. The loss over the first half was expected, even though the nonprofit made $242,053 more in the same period in 2018-19, when at the seven-month mark the funds were $138,538 in the green. In fact, the nonprofit made $1,334 more than it budgeted for the first six-month stretch. Furthermore, the center reversed its downward financial turn. The nonprofit lost $161,562.75 through November 2019, but chipped $58,045.75 off the deficit since — earning $48,730.63 in net income in December and $9,314.64 in January. The center’s lower deficit can be attributed to higher revenues from membership and registration fees for youth and fitness programs. The center began its fiscal year collecting $15,775 in revenue from membership fees in January 2019. That figure increased to $24,476.70 in November 2019, then $31,715.36 in December 2019 and $54,859.95 in January. Registration fees also saw an increase from $13,764.20 in November 2019 to nearly $20,000 in both of the next two months. Culhane wrote to The Islander in a March 11 email that the increase in membership and registration income can be attributed to snowbirds — temporary residents who live in the area one-six months of the year — purchasing day, week and one-month memberships. Fundraising also took a turn for the better. The center posted a five-digit loss in fundraising each month from July-November 2019, including a $51,066.87 loss in August 2019. The next board meeting will be 7 p.m. Monday, April 20, at the center, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria.

Call & confirm!

The Islander suggests readers check for cancellations or rescheduled activities due to safety measures to deal with COVID-19.

Island happenings

March 18, 2020 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 11 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Artists reunite to publish children’s book

Wildlife photographer Janice Williams holds a copy of her book, “Heronymus Heron Discovers His Shadow,” coauthored with Richard Skaare. Islander Photo: Bonner Joy

Janice Williams and Richard Skaare, high school friends in Massachusetts, were delighted when they reconnected at a reunion event several years ago. Now they are living in Florida and put their heads together for a children’s book full of dancing shorebirds and life lessons. “Heronymus Heron Discovers His Shadow” came to Skaare’s mind after seeing Williams’ photos of a great blue heron who frequents her beach. “I think there’s a story here,” Skaare told Williams, and the pair set about weaving photographs and their tale. Williams will present a public reading and book signing 10 a.m. Sunday, March 22, at the Sandbar Restaurant, 100 Spring Ave., Anna Maria. They worked on the book for more than a year and it became available in March. Williams has done book signings at the Hive, 6682 Cortez Road, Bradenton, and is working on placing the book in local stores.

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Suzi Fox, director of the Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring, prepares to hand out materials on nesting sea turtles Feb. 4, at the city-sponsored market in City Pier Park.

Call & confirm!

Garrison and Chanhsy Hahn of St. Petersburg helm Hahn’s Kettle Corn Gourmet Treats. They sell their treats at the Anna Maria Farmers’ Market Tuesdays through tourist season at City Pier Park. Islander File Photos

Fresh-baked history

The Islander suggests readers check for canceled or rescheduled activities due to safety measures to deal with COVID-19. Some organizations have notified the newspaper, but others may be caught short-handed when it comes to distributing the news. We expect to learn of more closures and canceled events as the week progresses and we plan to share the news on social media.

need a good laugh? visit the emerson quillin signature store. humor, art, gifts 317 Pine Ave., Anna Maria | www.emersonshumor.com

Longtime volunteer baker Al Gilcrist arrives to the Anna Maria Island Historical Society, 402 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, Jan. 8 to hand off his homemade loaves of early Settlers’ Bread to docent Wanda Crummey. The hand-made, secret recipe has no preservatives. Docents report the bread resembles an english muffin that has been dusted with cornmeal. Islander Photo: Sarah Brice

Page 12 THE ISLANDER | islander.org March 18, 2020 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

The Islander Calendar

For the week March 18-25 Compiled by Lisa Neff, calendar@islander.org

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT ON ANNA MARIA ISLAND

Wednesday, March 18 1-3 p.m. — Anna Maria Island Garden Club ﬂower show, Roser Memorial Community Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Information: 813-857-4881. CANCELED Thursday, March 19 7 p.m. — The Grass Roots concert, Center of Anna Maria Island, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria. Fee applies. Information: 941-778-1908. CANCELED Saturday, March 21 10 a.m.-3 p.m. — Center of Anna Maria Island Tour of Homes, various locations with tickets at the center, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria. Fee applies. Information: 941-778-1908. CANCELED ONGOING ON AMI Saturdays through March 21, 10:30 a.m.-noon, Island Gallery West artist demonstrations, 5368 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6648. CANCELED Through March 22, Island Players’ “Leading Ladies,” 10009 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria. Fee applies. Information: 941-778-5755. CANCELED Throughout March, Kris Peterson exhibit, Artists’ Guild Gallery, 5414 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6694. Throughout March, Candace Bennington’s “Oils of the Island” exhibit, Island Gallery West, 5368 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6648. LOOKING AHEAD ON AMI

The Grass Roots concert set for March 19 at the Center of Anna Maria Island, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria, has been delayed due to CoVID-19. Tickets will be honored at the postponed event now planned for Dec. 3. Islander Courtesy Photo the Bishop Museum of Science and Nature, 201 10th St. W., Bradenton. Fee applies. Information: 941-746-4131. Thursdays, 5-8 p.m., Art After 5, John and Mable Ringling The Islander suggests readers check for canMuseum of Art, 5401 Bay Shore Road, Sarasota. Fee applies. cellations or rescheduled activities due to safety Information: 941-359-5700. CANCELED measures to deal with COVID-19. Second and fourth Saturdays, 1-4 p.m., Music on the Porch, Florida Maritime Museum, 4415 119th St. W., Cortez. Information: applies. Information: 941-746-4131. 941-708-6120.

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April 11, Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce’s Beach’n LOOKING AHEAD OFF AMI Food Truck and Music Festival, Holmes Beach. April 30, Island Players’ “Death by Design,” Anna Maria. April 3-5, Sarasota Film Festival, Sarasota. CANCELED May 2, Bourbon, Beats and Eats, Holmes Beach. April 4, Manatee River Club “Bradenton in Bloom” garden tour, Oct. 17, Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce Bayfest, Bradenton. Anna Maria. OFF AMI

KIDS & FAMILY

ON AMI Wednesday, March 18 6 p.m. — “The Florida Women Behind the Everglades” lecture, Tuesday, March 24 10 a.m. — Preschool storytime, Island Library, 5701 Marina Florida Maritime Museum free lecture series, 4415 119th St. W., Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341. Cortez. Reservations required. Information: 941-708-6120. Saturday, March 21 LOOKING AHEAD ON AMI 7-11 p.m. — Anna Maria Island Privateers “One Night in TorMay 30, Anna Maria Island Privateers Kids Day, TBD. tuga” party, Seafood Shack, 4110 127th St. W., Cortez. Fee applies. Information: 941-780-1668. ONGOING OFF AMI ONGOING OFF ANNA MARIA ISLAND Through Aug. 1, “Remaking the World: Abstraction from the Permanent Collection,” John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, 5401 Bay Shore Road, Sarasota. Fee applies. Information: 941359-5700. Through Sept. 6, “Myakka River: A Florida Treasure” featuring the photography of Clyde Butcher, The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature, 201 10th St. W., Bradenton. Fee applies. Information: 941-746-4131. Second Wednesdays, 12:15 p.m., Lunch and Learn program,

Through May 31, “Savage Ancient Seas,” Mote Marine Aquarium, 1600 Ken Thompson Parkway, Sarasota. Fee applies. Information: 941-388-4441. Fourth Wednesdays, 7 p.m. Stelliferous Star Talk, the Bishop Museum of Science and Nature, 201 10th St. W., Bradenton. Fee applies. Information: 941-746-4131. Second Saturdays, 4 p.m., IQuest for middle schoolers, the Bishop Museum of Science and Nature, 201 10th St. W., Bradenton. Fee applies. Information: 941-746-4131. Second and fourth Saturdays, 10:30 a.m. KidSpace, the Bishop Museum of Science and Nature, 201 10th St. W., Bradenton. Fee

LOOKING AHEAD OFF AMI April 11, DeSoto Bottle Boat Regatta, Bradenton. April 25, DeSoto Grand Parade, Bradenton.

CLUBS & COMMUNITY ON AMI Wednesday, March 18 1 p.m. — Lifelong Learning Academy program, Wonders of Architecture, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341. 3 p.m.— Sunshine Stitchers Knit and Crochet. Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341. Thursday, March 19 10:15 a.m. — Book club, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341. Friday, March 20 9 a.m.-noon — Friends of the Island Library members-only book sale, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341. CANCELED Noon-5 p.m. — Friends of the Island Library book sale, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-7786341. CANCELED 5-7 p.m. — Annie Silver Community Dinner, with roasted chicken and all the ﬁxings, 103 23rd St. N., Bradenton Beach. Infor-

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March 18, 2020 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 13 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

The Islander Calendar

mation: 941-778-3580. CANCELED Saturday, March 21 9 a.m.-4 p.m. â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Friends of the Island Library book sale, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-7786341. CANCELED Wednesday, March 25 Noon â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Coloring club, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341. 1:45 p.m. â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Beginner ukulele class, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341. 3 p.m. â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Ukulele class, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341. ONGOING ON AMI

Wednesdays, 10 a.m., Early Settlersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Bread sales, Anna Maria Island Historical Society, 402 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Fee applies. Information: 941-778-0492. Thursdays, 6:30 p.m., Refuge Recovery: A Buddhist-Inspired Nontheistic Path, Church of the Annunciation, 4408 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-1638. Second Fridays, 6 p.m., AMI Resident Community Connections, Center of Anna Maria Island, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria. Information: 941-778-1908. Saturdays, 8:30 a.m., Kiwanis Club of Anna Maria Island breakfast and meeting, Anna Maria Island Beach Cafe at the Manatee Public Beach, 4000 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941778-1383. CANCELED Tuesdays through May 12, 8:30 a.m.-2 p.m., Anna Maria Farmersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Market, City Pier Park, Pine Avenue and North Bay Boulevard, Anna Maria. Information: 941-708-6130. CANCELED Tuesdays, noon, Rotary Club of Anna Maria Island, Bridge Street Bistro, 111 Gulf Drive S., Bradenton Beach. Information: 941718-0291. LOOKING AHEAD OFF AMI April 4, Manatee River Garden Club â&#x20AC;&#x153;Bradenton in Bloomâ&#x20AC;? garden tour, Bradenton. April 4, Great American Cleanup, communitywide.

Maria City Hall, 10005 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria. Information: 941-7086130. Wednesday and Monday, 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m., pickleball, Center of Anna Maria Island, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria. Fee applies. Information: 941-778-1908. Thursdays, Saturdays and Tuesdays, 10:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m., Legends Tennis, Center of Anna Maria Island, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria. Fee applies. Information: 941-778-1908. Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Tuesday, 10:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m., pickleball, Center of Anna Maria Island, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria. Fee applies. Information: 941-778-1908. Thursdays and Tuesdays, 9 a.m.-1 p.m., Meals on Wheels Plus â&#x20AC;&#x153;Friendship Diner,â&#x20AC;? Center on Anna Maria Island, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria. Information: 941-778-1908. Thursdays through March 26, 7-9 p.m., bingo games, Annie Silver Community Center, 103 23rd St. N., Bradenton Beach. Information: 941-778-3580. CANCELED Most Fridays, 11:30 a.m. or 1 p.m. (call for times) mahjong games, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341. Saturdays, 7:30 a.m., Still I Run running club, Manatee Public Beach, 4000 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: mcfacheris@ gmail.com. Mondays, noon, AMI Bridge, Roser Memorial Community Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Information: 941-778-0414. Mondays, AMI Dragon Boat Fun and Fitness Club, time depends on tides, 417 63rd St., Holmes Beach. Information: 941462-2626. Mondays-Saturdays, 7:30-10:30 a.m., Round Robin Tennis, Center of Anna Maria Island, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria. Fee applies. Information: 941-778-1908. Most Tuesdays, 11:30 a.m., mahjong games and instruction for beginners, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341. Tuesdays, 12:15 p.m., duplicate bridge, Episcopal Church of the Annunciation, 4408 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941779-0881.

April 23, Manatee Audubon Society bird outing, Bradenton Beach.

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April 9, Bradenton Maraudersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; home opener, Bradenton. CANCELED April 18, Moonracer No Kill Animal Rescueâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Golf Outing for the Rescue, Palmetto. May 8, Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce golf tournament, Bradenton.

GOOD TO KNOW SAVE THE DATES Wednesday, April 1, April Foolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day. Wednesday, April 22, Earth Day. Friday, April 24, National Arbor Day. Friday, May 1, May Day. Tuesday, May 5, Cinco de Mayo. Sunday, May 10, Motherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day. Saturday, May 16, Armed Forces Day. Monday, May 25, Memorial Day.

LOOKING AHEAD ON AMI

GAMES, SPORTS & OUTDOORS Throughout March, Major League Baseball spring training games with the Pittsburgh Pirates, LECOM Park, 1611 Ninth St. W., Bradenton. Fee applies. Information: 941-747-3031. CANCELED Wednesdays and Saturdays, 9 a.m., horseshoes pitched, Anna

Get listed in The Islander calendar. email calendar@islander.org.

At the box ofďŹ ce

April 4, Sidewalk Astronomy at Robinson Preserve, Braden- Amy Jumbelic of Pennsylvania purchases theater tickets March 4 from actress Laura Morales, who was staffing the Island Playersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; box office, 10009 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria, for the production of â&#x20AC;&#x153;LeadThe Islander suggests readers check for caning Ladies.â&#x20AC;? The remainder of the performances cellations or rescheduled activities due to safety were canceled due to CoVID-19, Islander Photo: measures to deal with COVID-19. Lisa Neff

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Page 14 THE ISLANDER | islander.org March 18, 2020 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

AmE NEWS By Brook Morrison, brook@islander.org

AME spring break extended due to COVID-19

AME kids stage â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Friends Foreverâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; AMe second-graders perform â&#x20AC;&#x153;Friends Foreverâ&#x20AC;? onstage March 10. â&#x20AC;&#x153;All my friends are singing together today,â&#x20AC;? said AMe second-grader eli Lewis. Islander Photo: Brook Morrison

AMe second-grader Penny Payne, left, and Lexi Patton perform March 10 in the class musical â&#x20AC;&#x153;Friends Forever,â&#x20AC;? in the school auditorium, 4700 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. Islander Photo: Courtesy Margaret Payne

Anna Maria elementary second-graders Lexi Baugher, left, Catherine Teich and Duncan Cloutier lead a procession into the school auditorium March 10 for the second-grade play, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Friends Forever.â&#x20AC;? Islander Photo: Brook Morrison

The School District of Manatee County heeded COVID-19 instruction from Florida Commissioner of Education Richard Corcoran and March 13 announced schools would be closed until March 30. The decision extended spring break, which began March 16 to end March 30. Before the closure, Anna Maria Elementary followed district instruction to ensure students and staff would be as hygienic as possible to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Hand sanitizer was made available at the entrance to the front office, cafeteria and all classrooms. In an email to the Islander March 10, principal Jackie Featherston said students who felt sick with symptoms, such as fever, cough, shortness of breath or vomiting were sent home. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The school district is implementing enhanced cleaning and disinfecting measures at all schools and during spring break,â&#x20AC;? Featherston said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This includes disinfecting all restrooms and break rooms daily, disinfecting all common touch areas, door handles, light switches, faucets, water fountains and in addition, playgrounds and other outdoor touch surfaces.â&#x20AC;? When classes resume, students will be given more time to wash hands and school nurse Vicki Dunning will conduct hand-washing classes. Staff were sent a video about hand washing. Many AME students and staff changed spring break plans due to the pandemic. â&#x20AC;&#x153;My daughter Ava and I had to cancel our trip to Las Vegas,â&#x20AC;? AME administrator Sheila Zinks wrote in an email March 15. Some district students were spending break at home, including second-grader Rusty Dilley, who spent part of March 15 building a sand castle on the beach near 52nd Street in Holmes Beach. â&#x20AC;&#x153;My mom said we are lucky to live near the beach and sheâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s right,â&#x20AC;? said Rusty. Rusty said he hopes to go to the beach everyday. Satisfaction Guaranteed!

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Student speech about dyslexia puts AME fourth-grader on top in annual contest Twelve Anna Maria Elementary fourth- and fifthgraders were chosen to compete March 11 for a chance to represent their school at the Manatee County district finals in May. AME fourth-grader Maya Suzor’s poised speech about living with dyslexia took the top prize. She mentioned some famous dyslexics — Albert Einstein and Walt Disney — and explained how having dyslexia meant she needed to learn how to read and do math with tutoring in school and at home. “Dyslexia is a learning disability, but it’s also one of my biggest strengths,” Maya said. She described how dyslexia gives her added ability to be creative, to dance, visualize ideas and play music. Coming in second place was animated fifth-grader Makena Corr, whose speech was about her grandfather, who grew up in a small farming town and became an admiral in the U.S. Navy. Third-place went to fourth-grader Piper Payne. Her speech was about three of the world’s most dangerous animals: the tsetse fly, rabid dog and mosquito. Former AME principal Tom Levengood, former teacher Phyllis Omilak and Wayne Lashway, husband of first-grade teacher Toni Lashway, judged the contest. Of the six fifth-grade speeches, four were about beloved dogs. After explaining all the positive things about dog the school office at

2019-20 AME calendar • Through March 20, spring break, no school. • Thursday, March 26, 5-7 p.m., kindergarten roundup and conference night. CANCELED. • April 1-2, third-grade FSA reading assessment. • Thursday, April 2, fourth- and ﬁfth-grade FSA writing assessment. • Friday, April 3, 6 p.m., talent show. • Friday, April 10, Good Friday, no school. • Wednesday, April 15, 1:40 p.m., early release. • May 4-7, third- and fourth-grade FSA math and reading assessments. • May 4-8, Staff Appreciation Week. • May 6-7, third-grade FSA math assessment. • Friday, May 15, end-of-year ﬁeld day. • Monday, May 25, Memorial Day, no school. • May 26-28, 12:55 p.m., early release. • Thursday, May 28, last day of school for students. Anna Maria Elementary is at 4700 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. For more information, call 941-708-5525.

ownership, fifth-grader Kate Stembridge closed her The top three winners — Maya, Makena and Piper speech by stating a simple fact: “Dogs are brilliant.” — will read their speeches in May at the Manatee “They all did such a great job,” said AME guid- County School District competition, where they will ance counselor Susan Tabicman. compete with students from other schools.

‘

Dyslexia is a learning disability, but it’s also one of my biggest strengths. AME fourth-grader Maya Suzor

’

AMe fifth-graders Makena Corr, left, Mia Ferrari, Lanie Sabbath, Zoie Wade and Kate Stembridge, center, pose March 11 after the AMe speech contest. Islander Photo: Courtesy Carmel Walsh

Anna Maria elementary fourth-grader Maya Suzor delivers her speech March 11 from a podium onstage in the school auditorium. She spoke about being dyslexic during the contest and took first place at the school. Islander Photo: Brook Morrison

AME hopes high for 2020-21 kindergarten enrollment Anna Maria Elementary made an extra effort to attract students who live off the island for kindergarten in 2020-21. AME lost a teacher post at the beginning of the 2019-20 school year because attendance fell shy of a 240-minimum enrollment. So AME administrators decided to act before losing more staff in September. AME teachers and staff attended choice events for the Manatee County School District and distributed brochures about the “little school by the bay.” “We have 10 students registered for kindergarten through school choice for next year, with a total of 17 students registered at this time,” principal Jackie Featherston wrote in an email to The Islander Feb. 27. Families will attend a kindergarten roundup March 26 to register and the school “will continue registering

students through the end of this school year,” Featherston said. She said AME might have two kindergarten classes for 2020-21. “Part of AME’s charm are the small class sizes, nurturing teachers and community feel,” said Carmel Walsh of Bradenton, who chose to enroll her two children at the school when she moved from London in 2016. “When my eldest daughter started AME in secondgrade, she came home after the first day and thanked me for sending her to such a great school,” Walsh said. About 54% of AME students currently use the school choice program and total enrollment is in the 200s, according to Featherston. — Brook Morrison

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SPECIAL EVENTS

Please, pass the syrup. Roser Memorial Community Church planned a March 21 community gathering and it was still on the calendar as of March 16. Church members will be cooking and serving a pancake breakfast 8-11 a.m. that Saturday. The menu will include pancakes, sausage, syrup, melted butter, applesauce, biscuits and gravy, juice, coffee and tea. The cost per diner is $6. There is no charge for children under the age of 5. After breakfast, diners are encouraged to burn off the morning’s calories with a stroll across the street to the Roser Guild Thrift Shop, which will be open 10 a.m.-1 p.m. The church is at 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. For more information, call the church office at 941-778-0414.

St. Bernard cancels programs, events

Saturday, March 21, 8-11 a.m., pancake breakfast, Roser Memorial Community Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Fee applies. Sunday, March 22, 8 a.m.-noon, pancake breakfast, St. Bernard Catholic Church, 248 S. Harbor Drive, Holmes Beach. Fee applies. CANCELED Tuesdays through March 31, 5:30 p.m., Terriﬁc Tuesdays, Roser Memorial Community Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. REGULAR WORSHIP Monday-Friday 8:30 a.m. — St. Bernard Catholic Church, 248 S. Harbor Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-4769. Thursday 9:30 a.m. — Episcopal Church of the Annunciation, 4408 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-1638. Saturday 4 p.m. — St. Bernard, Holmes Beach. 5 p.m. — Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, 6608 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-1813. Sunday 8:30 a.m. and 10 a.m. — Christ Church of Longboat Key Presbyterian (USA), 6400 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key. Information: 941-383-8833. CANCELED 8:30 a.m. and 10 a.m. — Roser Memorial Community Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Information: 941-778-0414. 8:30 a.m. and 10:15 a.m. — Harvey Memorial Community Church, 300 Church Ave., Bradenton Beach. Information: 941-7791912. 8:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. — St. Bernard, Holmes Beach.

St. Bernard Catholic Church, 248 S. Harbor Drive, CROP raising Holmes Beach, has canceled parish gatherings. The “Roser Walkers” celA March 16 notice from the church said gatherings such as faith formation classes, pancake breakfasts ebrate at the Crop Walk Feb. 23. The group from Anna and coffee and donuts” were canceled “until further Maria’s Roser Memorial Comnotice.” munity Church joined others The notice did not include worship. in the walk from First united For more information, call the church office at Methodist Church in Palmetto 941-778-4769.

Gathering Please, send listings for the

religion page to calendar@islander.org.

Call & confirm!

The Islander suggests readers check for cancellations or rescheduled activities due to safety measures to deal with COVID-19.

8 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. — Episcopal Church of the Annunciation, Holmes Beach. 9 a.m. — CrossPointe Fellowship, 8665 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-0719. 9:30 a.m. — Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, Holmes Beach. 10 a.m. — Longboat Island Chapel, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key. Information: 941-383-6491. 11 a.m. — Cortez Church of Christ, 12111 45th Ave. W., Cortez. Information: 941-216-6286. 5:30 p.m. — SoulJourn casual and music-inspired worship, Roser Church. ONGOING Wednesday 7 a.m. — Men’s Bible study, CrossPointe. 7:30 a.m., St. Bernard Rosary on the Beach, Manatee Public Beach, 4000 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. CANCELED 8 a.m. — Men’s breakfast, Church of the Annunciation. 10 a.m. — Women’s Bible study, Christ Church. 9 a.m. — Men’s Bible study, Christ Church. 11 a.m. — JOY, second and fourth Wednesdays, Roser. 11:30 a.m. — Prayer partners, Gloria Dei. 1 p.m. — Griefshare group, Roser Church. 6:15 p.m. — Wednesday Night Blast for youth, CrossPointe. 7 p.m. — Bible study, Cortez Church of Christ. Thursday 9:30 a.m. — Roser-robics, Roser. 10 a.m. — Women’s Bible study, Gloria Dei. 10 a.m. — Bible study, Harvey Church. 6:30 p.m. — Refuge Recovery: A Buddhist-Inspired Nontheistic Path, Annunciation. Saturday 3 p.m. — Confession, St. Bernard. PLeASe, See tiDiNGs, NexT PAGe

across the Green Bridge into downtown Bradenton and then back. CRoP stands for Communities Responding to overcome Poverty and the Roser Walkers raised $6,300, including funds for two local aid groups, our Daily Bread and Turning Points. Islander Courtesy Photo

SUNDAY, MARCH 29 • 8:30 AND 10:00 AM

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Growing in Jesus’ Name Sunday Services Postponed Due to Coronavirus concerns, church services are suspended until further notice.

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March 18, 2020 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 19 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Artists’ Guild seeks financial aid due to gallery rent increase By Sandy Ambrogi Islander Reporter

Money out must come back in. That was Hugh Holmes Jr.’s reasoning for the rent increases to the shops and restaurants in the Island Shopping Center on Marina Drive, which he manages for the owners. Some tenants called the rent increases “huge.” The Artists’ Guild of Anna Maria Island, in the center at 5414 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, was hit by the increase, as Holmes attempted to recoup 2019 shortages on maintenance and insurance. Sharon Tarras, president of AGAMI, pulled no punches in an interview March 11 with The Islander. “We had a huge rent increase this year — $7,300

GoodDeeds

By Lisa Neff

total over last year’s total of $34,291.12,” Tarras said. “On top of that,” she said, “We also had to pay a one-time assessment of $3,200 for the underestimated 2019 expenses.” Costs were higher than Holmes anticipated, he told The Islander in January, and based on leases with tenants, the monthly rent had to increase to recoup them. “After a careful examination of our books, we honestly see no way to continue on with the AGAMI gallery and our programs without monetary help and changes,” Tarras said. She also referred to the guild’s scholarship program for Manatee County students, among other efforts.

“Our members have been willing to pay more for their gallery space,” she said, and a GoFundMe page was established for the gallery with a goal of $10,000. The fund had reached about 12% of the goal, Tarras said March 11. Information for the account can be found at amiartistsguildgallery.com. A March 13 open house that was to include a fundraiser for AGAMI was canceled due to concerns about the new coronavirus. At any rate, with less than $1,000 in the coffers at the end of 2019, AGAMI says help is needed. “We’re just not quite sure we can continue,” Tarras said.

From beach proposal to family gathering

Volunteer opportunities

Looking for an opportunity to volunteer on Anna Maria Island? These organizations need your help: • Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce seeks volunteers for its Beach’n Food Truck and Music Festival, Saturday, April 11, in Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-1541. • Moonracer Animal Rescue seeks volunteers to offer foster and forever homes for rescued animals. Information: 941-345-2441. • The Roser Food Bank needs donations. Roser Memorial Community Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, administers the pantry, supported by All Island Denominations. Information: 941-778-0414. Send listings to calendar@islander.org.

Phil and Janice olson, left, Joe and Annette Fairbanks with Jackson, Luke Meyer with Bexley, Heather Sunday olson, Gabrielle olson, Rick olson, 8:45 a.m. — Adult Sunday school, Roser. Butch and Sharlynn olson and Kris 9 a.m. — Adult book study, Roser. and Todd Fairbanks gather on the 10:15 a.m. — Fellowship, Gloria Dei. beach. The brothers in front are 10 a.m. — Bible study, Cortez Church of Christ. CANCELED Lincoln and Gunner olson. The 10:30 a.m. — Life group, CrossPointe. family hails from North Branch, 11:30 a.m. — Covered Dish Fellowship, second Sundays, Minnesota, and visits Anna Maria CrossPointe. Island annually. The family is wearMonday ing tribute shirts, “emry’s Army.” 4 p.m. —Youth music lessons, CrossPointe. Islander Courtesy Photos Tuesday 9:30 a.m. — Women’s prayer, CrossPointe. 9:30 a.m. — Roser-robics, Roser. By Ryan Paice SAVE THE DATES Islander Reporter

Luke Meyer of North Branch, Minnesota, proposes to Gabrielle olson on the beach on Anna Maria Island. The couple has a daughter, Bexley. They also celebrated another daughter who died, emry.

TIDINGS CoNTINueD FRoM PAGe 18

Anna Maria fills P&Z seat, 2 seats remain open

April 5, Palm Sunday. April 8, Passover begins. April 10, Good Friday. April 11, Holy Saturday. April 12, Easter. April 16, Passover ends. May 31, Pentecost. Sept. 21-30, European tour, St. Bernard. Please, send notices — or changes in schedules — to calendar@islander.org and news@islander.org.

Scholarship apps due

Applications for Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce scholarships are due Monday, March 30. The chamber offers three $1,000 scholarships to Manatee County seniors seeking to further their education. One scholarship will be awarded to a student pursuing local trade- or career-focused education and two scholarships will be awarded to students seeking four-year degrees. Applications must be postmarked or delivered to our office by March 30. Applications are available at the chamber office, 5313 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, as well as online at annamariaislandchamber.org. Recipients will be notified in early April and receive their awards at 5 p.m. Wednesday, April 15, during a directors meeting. — Lisa Neff

The Anna Maria planning and zoning board is rounding out, but it isn’t at full strength. City commissioners voted 5-0 March 12 to approve a consent agenda, including the appointment of resident Barbara Zdravecky to the P&Z board. Zdravecky wrote in her application that she is a retired executive. She works part-time at a retail store on Pine Avenue.

take 5:00 On vacation March 18

She also is a board member of the Selby Foundation, a member of the Ruth’s List Florida executive board and has experience as a board member of the Manatee Chamber of Commerce. Her application notes that she has lived in Anna Maria for 32 years and would be available yearround. The board consists of five members: chair Jeff Rodencal, vice chair Dr. Jose Erbella, Margaret Jenkins, Bob Carter and Zdravecky. The board remains two people short after former P&Z members Mark Short and Jonathan Crane became city commissioners in 2019. Another P&Z member, Monika Beard, resigned from the board late last year. The P&Z’s next meeting will be at 2 p.m. Friday, March 20, at city hall, 10005 Gulf Drive.

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Page 20 THE ISLANDER | islander.org March 18, 2020 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

HBPD ramps up for spring break onslaught By ChrisAnn Allen Islander Reporter

Spring breakers have arrived. The revelers represent a boost in an already swelled population of snowbirds escaping the northern climes. In a March 9 news release, Holmes Beach Police Chief Bill Tokajer wrote that the police department increased its presence, with additional officers watching for illegal alcohol use, traffic, noise and parking. Tokajer warned that people Tokajer should lock their doors and not leave valuables in vehicles. “Don’t make yourself an easy target,” he wrote. The release reminded people there are vacation rentals in residential neighborhoods, so noise should be kept within levels dictated by city ordinance. The chief also stated that alcoholic beverages and

open fires are prohibited on all beaches. Additionally, the release included “recommendations for how to save money while vacationing in Holmes Beach,” including: • Always wear a seat belt while driving — savings of $116. • Drive the posted speed limit — savings of $206. • Stop for all stop signs and red lights — savings of $166. • Follow all parking laws, including parking the same direction as the flow of traffic in Holmes Beach — savings of $50. • Do not bring alcohol on the beach — savings of $75 per person. • Lock your vehicle and make sure no valuables are visible — savings of lost personal property, priceless. To report a violation, the HBPD can be reached at 941-778-COPS (2677). In an emergency, call 911.

Cortez man denied reduced bond for battery By Leslie Lake Islander Reporter

A man accused of dragging another man under his vehicle, was denied his latest request for freedom. David Nichols, 57, who resided in unincorporated Manatee County near Cortez, is accused of striking Fred Gilliland, 61, of Cortez, with his vehicle Nov. 18, 2019, and dragging him for nearly a block. Nichols was present March 10 for Nichols a bond hearing at the Manatee Judicial Center in Bradenton, where 12th Circuit Judge Frederick P. Mercurio denied his request for a bond reduction. Nichols was represented by assistant public defender Allanah McClintock. She did not respond to The Islander’s request for comment March 12. Nichols is charged with aggravated battery with great bodily harm with a deadly weapon and leaving the scene of a crash with serious bodily injury. Manatee County Sheriff’s deputies reported a verbal dispute took place outside a residence near Cortez between Gilliland and Nichols. As Gilliland left on foot, walking southbound on 101st Street West, Nichols allegedly struck him with his vehicle. Gilliland was dragged by Nichols’ vehicle for an approximate distance of 284 feet, according to the

MCSO. Gilliland sustained life-threatening injuries, including the amputation of his right arm, open fractures and head trauma. Gilliland’s longtime friend and employer, James “Wyre” Lee, at the Cortez Bait and Seafood Market on Cortez Road said Gilliland is undergoing treatment at Casa Mora Rehabilitation and Extended Care in Bradenton. “He’s in therapy just about every afternoon,” Lee said March 12. “He’s hanging in and getting better. He’s in good spirits considering that he lost an arm, but he has a long way to go.” As of March 12, a GoFundMe page, “Friends for Freddy,” had raised $6,400. Lee said additional fundraisers for Gilliland are in the works. Nichols was held on $100,000 bond after his Nov. 19 arrest. He bonded out Jan. 30 on a $10,000 surety bond deposit but was taken into custody two days later after he admitted to deputies that he had smoked methamphetamine, according to a MCSO report. Nichols’ bond was revoked Feb. 5 and he was returned to the Manatee County jail, where he remained as of March 16. The state was represented at the bond hearing by state attorney Art Brown.

Streetlife

Staff reports

Island police reports

Anna Maria No new reports. Anna Maria is policed by the MCSO. Bradenton Beach Feb. 24, Circle K, 2513 Gulf Drive N., petit theft. The manager reported a man stole a $32 novelty alligator head. A dispatched officer recognized the suspect on security footage. The officer issued a case number and said a capias request would be filed. Feb. 29, Club Bamboo South, 2412 Gulf Drive N., noise. Officers responded to a complaint that two men were arguing. The men were separated, questioned and one man was asked to leave for the night since he lived in town. The man left without further issue. March 3, 200 block of Bridge Street, anchorage, abandoned boat. An officer located a derelict vessel, a 1982 22-foot Catalina sailing vessel. The officer contacted the registered owner by phone and issued a warning, but the owner refused to cooperate. The vessel remained where it was found. March 3, 200 block of Bridge Street, anchorage, abandoned boat. An officer located a 1996 Pro Sport 19-foot vessel. The officer contacted the owner three times and issued warnings, but the owner refused to cooperate. The vessel remained where it was found. March 3, 200 block of Bridge Street, anchorage, abandoned boat. An officer located a vessel, a 1974 33-foot sailboat, “Intrigue.” The officer contacted the owner three times, but the owner refused to cooperate. The vessel remained where it was found. March 8, 200 block of Church Avenue, Marchman Act. An officer was dispatched to a report of a woman running on the street, followed by two men. Witnesses said an ex-girlfriend went to a man’s residence, banged on the door and then threw rocks, breaking glass. A woman at the residence tried to calm her, but the distraught woman assaulted her and ran away. Three officers responded and found the woman highly intoxicated, screaming and bleeding. She was taken to Blake Medical Center and then Centerstone Behavioral Center for evaluation. March 8, 900 block of Gulf Drive North, driving on a suspended license, possession of drug paraphernalia. An officer was dispatched to an accident. The officer asked a male motorist who appeared at fault for his license and registration, but the man revealed drug paraphernalia upon opening the glove box. His license had been suspended for driving under the influence and he’d received a first warning for driving with a suspended license. The officer issued a traffic citation and arrested the man for a second offense of driving with a suspended license. He was transported to the Manatee County jail. BBPD polices Bradenton Beach. Cortez Feb. 15, 4600 block of 119th Street West, battery. Deputies at the Cortez Commercial Fishing Festival separated two people engaged in an argument. please, see streetlife, Next page

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March 18, 2020 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 21 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Resort lounge leads to brouhaha in Holmes Beach By ChrisAnn Allen Islander Reporter

Bali Hai? Kiss the lounge goodbye. For now. Developer Shawn Kaleta purchased the Bali Hai Beachfront Resort and Spa, 6900 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach in February 2019 for about $20 million. Since then, the motel, originally built in 1971, has undergone updates and renovations, including to a small bar and kitchen in the pool area. The city issued a notice of violation March 9 for a sandwich board sign in front of the resort. The sign advertised the lounge, but signage for a business without a city license and signage in the right of way are not allowed in the city. The sign was removed, but a different sign, with similar verbiage, was placed the next day on the beachfront at the resort. That sign also was taken down and Kaleta was issued another notice of violation. According to Louis Najmy of the Najmy Thompson law firm in Bradenton, representing Bali Hai, the owner’s intention was to create a lounge for guests, not the public. “The resort was only selling to guests in keeping with the restrictions and requirements contained in the notice and I believe it was just a misunderstanding,” Najmy said March 11. He added that the previous owners, Bali Hai Corp., a company managed by David and Alan Bouziane, had sold alcoholic beverages to guests for many years, before licenses were required by the state. Kaleta paid $430,000 for motel liquor license. STREETLIFE CoNTINueD FRoM PAGe 20

MCSO polices Cortez. Holmes Beach March 4, 100 block of 43rd Street, traffic stop. A Holmes Beach patrol officer checked a car tag and learned the driver did not have a license. The male motorist was given a notice to appear in court and released. March 5, 700 block of Manatee Avenue, traffic stop. The officer on patrol ran a vehicle tag through the reader system and determined the owner did not have a license. A summons was issued and the female motorist was released. March 7, 700 block of Manatee Avenue, traffic stop. An officer on patrol was alerted by the license plate reader system. Upon stopping the motorist, the officer determined the male driver had a suspended license, no insurance and the vehicle was not registered. The motorist was given two citations for no insurance and driving on a suspended license. He was issued a notice to appear and released. March 8, 2700 block of Gulf Drive, theft. An officer was called to a theft at a residence. A man reported his bike lock was cut and his bicycle stolen overnight. HBPD polices Holmes Beach. Streetlife is based on incident reports and narratives from the BBPD, HBPD and MCSO.

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A sandwich board sign at the Bali Hai motel, 6900 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, promotes food and refreshments at the Bali Hai Lounge. The sign lacked a required $25 city permit and was removed March 10. Islander Photo: Courtesy Holmes Beach

Mayor Judy Titsworth said March 11 that the former owners did not have a business tax receipt to operate a lounge. “I can’t allow a continued illegal use,” she said. “If they had a business tax receipt, it would have been grandfathered in. But if they did it, it was under the

radar.” The resort was built before 1989, when comprehensive plans and land development code regulations were adopted, and prior to licensing for hotel bars. Kaleta met March 11 with Titsworth and city staff to discuss the alleged violations and plans going forward. “It’s a new use, so it requires a site plan review,” Titsworth told The Islander following the meeting. The resort is within the A-1 zoning district, which allows for a gift shop, bar and restaurant as an ancillary use, as long as it is secondary to the operation of the hotel or motel where it is located. According to the mayor, anything larger than a single-family home or duplex in the A-1 district requires a site plan if it involves a new use. She said the city must evaluate parking based on number of seats at the lounge. “That has to do with density, which is dictated by our city charter, so it can’t be touched,” Titsworth said. She added that Kaleta has been issued several other notices of violations over the course of the remodel, including the interior demolition of a residential unit for offices without a permit and the removal of railings. Titsworth said Kaleta agreed to do a site plan. In the meantime, the city is allowing resort guests to be served in the lounge. “If he violates that, we’re probably going to pull that, too,” she said. “I wish he would read our city codes and figure out how to proceed without breaking the rules.” Kaleta did not respond to a request for comment.

Ruskin man arrested for DUI in Holmes Beach

A Ruskin man was arrested March 4 for driving under the influence of alcohol in Holmes Beach. Kenneth Borek, 53, was arrested at 3:27 a.m. in the Manatee Public Beach parking lot, 4000 Gulf Drive, by a Holmes Beach police officer. According to the HBPD report, the officer observed the motorist, traveling west on Manatee Avenue Borek run the flashing red light at the intersection of Gulf Drive and Manatee Avenue to enter the parking lot. The officer stopped the driver and reported Borek smelled of alcohol and his speech was slurred. The officer called for backup to conduct a field

sobriety test, which Borek failed. His blood-alcohol level was 0.339 and 0.350 on two tests. The legal alcohol limit is 0.08. Borek was arrested for DUI with a blood-alcohol content over 0.15, transported to the Manatee County jail and released the next day on a $120 bond. His arraignment has been set for April 7. — ChrisAnn Allen

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

Page 22 THE ISLANDER | islander.org March 18, 2020 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Manatee County discusses replacing Coquina Beach trees By Ryan Paice Islander Reporter

Manatee County is moving forward with replacements for 103 Australian pine trees removed from the south end of Coquina Beach to accommodate a drainage improvement project. Michael Sturm, Manatee County public works project manager, told county commissioners March 10 that construction on the first phase of the drainage improvement project was almost complete and the south parking lot opened March 13. Phase one involved installing underground stormwater drainage pipes and laying pervious concrete along an access road to address pooling stormwater. Sturm said the parking lot is finished, but work along the access road continued. Construction required the removal of 103 Australian pine trees, an invasive species with a shallow root system, because excavations for the project would harm the treesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; surface roots and leave them in dangerous condition, according to an arborist the county hired. Despite opposition from Bradenton Beach officials and a petition with more than 1,000 signatures, only Manatee County Commissioners Betsy Benac and Carol Whitmore voted against removing the trees. Because Bradenton Beachâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s code requires that for every nonnative tree removed, another tree of a different species must be planted. So, in the first phase, the county plans to replace the lost trees with 83 green buttonwood trees, 10 gumbo limbo trees and 10 shady lady black olive trees in the grass near a playground at that end of the beach. The new trees will have a 4-foot-wide canopy and be about 12 feet tall for immediate shade. Sturm said the trees are fast-growing, but will need years to create the shade provided by the Australian pine trees. Sturm said his department was preparing a change order for the purchase of landscaping materials for consideration at another meeting. In phase two, the county identified another 129 Australian pine trees that may be removed to accommodate the project, which would cover the north end of beach parking. Whitmore voiced concerns.

A view of the finished Coquina Beachâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s south parking lot March 12 from the Longboat Pass bridge. Islander Photo: Ryan Paice

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s already done. I donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t like it, but itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s done,â&#x20AC;? Whitmore said of phase one. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Again, I am going to adamantly oppose phase 2. â&#x20AC;Ś Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m sorry if you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t agree, but I live out there and every mayor on the island does not support this.â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;It doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t look like Anna Maria Island to me, who has lived out there for 51 years,â&#x20AC;? Whitmore said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;And change is not easy, but this is not what tourists come for.â&#x20AC;? Other commissioners werenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t alarmed.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;I just want to say that, like many, many, many development projects, the result is not as scary as what people think it is going to be,â&#x20AC;? Benac said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I have heard from people about how they love it. About how they think it is beautiful out there. â&#x20AC;Ś They love the changes.â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;I think it looks great, and I look forward to our discussion on phase 2,â&#x20AC;? said Commissioner Stephen Jonsson, who represents Anna Maria Island and whose seat is up for election this year.

By Ryan Paice Islander Reporter

â&#x20AC;˘ Limiting signage permitted per property to one permanent sign and one temporary sign; â&#x20AC;˘ Allowing property owners whose sign permits were approved by the commission to install signage within a year instead of 90 days; â&#x20AC;˘ Sending applications for sign permits and special exemptions to the planning and zoning board instead of the city commission. City attorney Becky Vose said the current ordinance contains several errors that would be corrected before it goes to the planning and zoning board for review at 2 p.m. Friday, March 20, at city hall, 10005 Gulf Drive. The ordinance would go before the city commission for a second and final reading at 2 p.m. Thursday, April 9, at city hall.

Anna Maria sign ordinance changes pass 1st reading Anna Maria is moving forward with changes to its sign ordinance. City commissioners held a first reading March 13 for the ordinance, which proposes several changes, such as prohibiting lighted signs that may negatively impact sea turtle nesting and requiring repeat offenders of the ordinance to appear before a special magistrate. Other proposed changes include: â&#x20AC;˘ Exempting holiday decorations and flags; â&#x20AC;˘ Allowing the building official to remove a sign if it poses a threat to public safety;

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March 18, 2020 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 23 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Slow down for sea cows This time of year, manatees are leaving their winter warm-water refuges for the rivers, bays and the Gulf of Mexico. Boaters are reminded to observe posted speed limits and to look out for manatees to avoid collisions. Islander Courtesy Photo

By Lisa Neff

Sunny, hot and keep your distance

An armchair, amateur epidemiologist checked the afternoon temperature and predicted infections by the new coronavirus will fall with seasonal temperature changes. “You know,” the islander informed me. “Like with the seasonal flu.” I’m keeping a social distance from him. Infection rates might fall because of the precautions some are taking, but the real experts say “probably not” Neff when asked, “Will COVID-19 abate on its own with warm weather?” Marc Lipsitch is one such expert. On Twitter, he describes himself as “infectious disease epidemiologist and microbiologist, aspirational barista.” Lipsitch is based in Boston, where he is director of Harvard University’s Center for Communicable Disease Dynamics, a rich resource of research and other information about the new coronavirus. Lipsitch’s expertise came to my attention on social media, where people were debating infection in warm versus cold climates. I noticed a number of links to his writing, specifically one titled “Seasonality of SARS-COV-2: Will COVID-19 go away on its own in warmer weather?” that can be found online at ccdd.hsph.harvard.edu. “Several people, including the U.S. president, have suggested that the novel coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 and the disease it causes, COVID-19, will go away on its own in the warmer weather that will come in the Northern Hemisphere in coming months,” Lipsitch writes. “Some have even suggested that the experience with SARS in 2003 provides evidence for this assertion.” Now here’s his but: “While we may expect modest declines in the contagiousness … in warmer, wetter weather and perhaps with the closing of schools in temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere, it is not reasonable to expect these declines alone to slow

transmission enough to make a big dent.” The professor busts two myths. Myth one, he says, is SARS went away on its own with warmer weather. Intense public health interventions in China, Hong Kong, Vietnam, Thailand and Canada dealt with SARS. Myth two is that the “common cold” coronaviruses are seasonal, with little transmission in summertime. A point Lipsitch makes is that seasonal viruses that have been in the population a long time behave differently than viruses new to the human population. “It helps to understand what we know about why many respiratory viruses are winter-seasonal in temperate regions like most of the USA. … Scientists have identified four factors that contribute to this phenomenon,” he says. The factors are depletion of susceptible hosts, environment, human behavior and human immune

systems and we still have many questions to answer and theories to prove about the new coronavirus. Plus, says Lipsitch, “even seasonal infections can happen ‘out of season’ when they are new.” Old viruses thrive when conditions are most favorable but new viruses have an advantage, as few individuals or none are immune. Taking all this into consideration, I’m not making any optimistic assumptions about how spring and summer might develop on Anna Maria Island. I’ll probably continue to avoid crowds — given the cancellations taking place, I might not have a choice. But on the sunny side, there’s no reason to avoid long walks in the neighborhood, hikes in our nature preserves and late afternoons on the beach, where I can catch the Gulf breeze and soak up the sun’s rays to boost my melatonin and Vitamin D. Blue skies and sunny days lie ahead.

Holmes Beach to strengthen fertilizer regulations By ChrisAnn Allen Islander Reporter

Holmes Beach officials want to ensure landscapers abide by Manatee County fertilizer regulations. The regulations that limit chemicals are a proactive stance to limit nutrients from entering the waterways surrounding Anna Maria Island. Holmes Beach commissioners March 10 voted 4-0 to approve the first reading of an ordinance adopting the county’s landscaping and fertilizer regulations. Commissioner Pat Morton was absent with excuse. The regulations, enacted by the county in 2014, prohibit use of fertilizers containing nitrogen or phosphorus on turf or landscape plants during the rainy season, which typically is June 1-Sept. 30. Such fertilizers could create runoff contributing to red tide and other harmful algal blooms. Anna Maria, Bradenton Beach and Holmes Beach

are covered under the county ordinance, but by adopting the regulations as a city ordinance, code compliance can cite people who violate fertilizer and landscaping regulations. Not complying with the ordinance is considered a class 1 violation, punishable with a fine of $125 for a first violation and $200 for a second, if uncontested. For contested violations, the fine is $225 for a first violation and $375 for a second. Holmes Beach Commissioner Terry Schaefer suggested March 10 that the city unite with other island municipalities to approach the county about strengthening its ordinance to include herbicides and pesticides. Mayor Judy Titsworth said the city could create its own ordinance to deal with such issues. A public hearing and final reading will be at the next city commission meeting at 6 p.m. Tuesday, March 24, at city hall, 5801 Marina Drive.

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Page 24 THE ISLANDER | islander.org March 18, 2020 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Games play on at center, soccer champs named, awarded By Kevin P. Cassidy Islander Reporter

Championship night in the youth flag football league at the Center of Anna Maria Island was March 10 and games were followed by awards aplenty for the season. Three age groups competed in the league with games played on the center field. The 8-10 division MVP went to Peyton Hovda of Cool Today, while Cassidy HSH Design’s Savanna Coba captured the female prize for MVP. Swordfish Grills’ Cale Rudacille was the recipient of the sportsmanship award, while Noah Rigney of HSH Designs earned most improved player. JM Feeney of Slim’s Place is MVP of the 11-13 division with Ugly Grouper’s Gabriella Gilbert earning female MVP. Progressive Cabinetry’s Matthew Hennessey was most improved, while the sportsmanship award went to Jack Mattick of Solid Rock Construction. Hashmark Sports’ Nate Costello captured the MVP for the 14-17 division, while MuniPlan’s Tuna McCracken was named top quarterback. Most improved player went to Ian Godfrey of Hashmark Sports, while Killer Bait’s Cole Carter grabbed the division sportsmanship award. The night got started with a championship game between Ugly Grouper and Slim’s Place, with the Grouper rushing past Slim’s 41-12, behind four rushing touchdowns from Ashton Hovda and a touchdown run each from Gabriella Gilbert and Brennan Gunter. Jackson Zoller added a pair of extra points and Mikey Coleman added one in the victory. JM Feeney ran for a touchdown to lead Slim’s in the loss and also received a touchdown pass from Nick Yatros to Jaxson Rush. The 8-10 division final — another blowout — saw HSH Designs outscore Cool Today 39-16 behind three touchdown passes from Charlie Neri. Neri connected with Savanna Coba, Noah Rigney and Chase Signor, while Connor Samblis added a rushing touchdown and a pick six on defense. Extra points from Signor and Rigney and three extra-point receptions from Sterling Holiday completed the HSH Designs scoring in the victory. Peyton Hovda had a pair of rushing touchdowns and a 2-point conversion to pace the Cool Today offense, which also received a 2-point conversion from Bailey Cain in the loss. Championship night concluded with Hashmark Sports cruising past MuniPlan 35-19. Quarterback Ian Godfrey threw three touchdown passes, while Shawn Balvin contributed three touchdowns and an extra point. Chance Hayward and Nate Costello both added a touchdown and an extra point in the victory. MuniPlan was led in the loss by Tuna McCracken’s two touchdown runs. Adult indoor soccer action After four weeks of adult soccer action in the gym at the Center of Anna Maria Island, Duncan Real Estate, with a 4-0 record, holds a half-game lead on 3-1 Pool America. Slim’s Place follows at 2-2, while Sato Real Estate, Gulfview Windows & Doors and Ross Built follow with matching 1-3 records. Indoor action March 12 saw Ross Built edge Slim’s Place 13-10 behind hat tricks from Connor Bystrom, Murat Akay and Trevor Bystrom, while Max Gazzo came through with 22 saves in goal. Kevin Roman’s five goals and two goals each from Brayan Felipe and Chris Culhane paced Slim’s Place Southernaire Fishing Charters

8-10 Champs, HSH Designs Connor Samblis, Savanna Coba, Charlie Neri, Noah Rigney, Chase Signor, Lucas Signor, Sterling Holiday and Brylee Roberts. Islander Photo: Courtesy Center of Anna Maria Island.

in the loss. Pool America swam past Gulfview Windows and Doors 17-8 behind six goals from Chris Scott and four goals from Andrew Sullivan. Chris Klotz added three goals and 12 saves for Pool America in the victory. Raul scored six goals and Keith Mahoney added two goals and two assists to lead Gulfview, which received 23 saves from Ryan Moss in the loss. The last game of the evening was a defensive struggle between Duncan and Sato that ended with an 11-6 score behind six goals from Damir Glavan and two goals and two assists from Joey Hutchinson. Robb Marshall made 22 saves to close out the victory. Steve Velliquette and Sean Flynn scored two goals each to lead Sato in the loss. Seedings set in adult flag football After seven weeks of season action, the adult flag football seedings are final and playoff matchups are set for the March 26 quarterfinal games. Moss Builders earned top seed and will take on No. 8 Ugly Grouper at 7 p.m. Ray’s Ramblings earned second seed and will take on No. 7 Capt. Sky Cruises at 8 p.m. Lancaster Designs came in third and will battle No. 6 Beach Bums at 9 p.m., while No. 4 Firkins Automotive will meet No. 5 Slim’s Place in the opening game at 6 p.m. Horseshoe news Two teams emerged from pool play and battled for the day’s bragging rights during March 11 horseshoe action at the Anna Maria City Hall horseshoe pits. Team Bob — Bob Rowley and Bob Palmer — earned the day’s title with a 21-12 victory over Dom Livedoti and Norm Langeland. Three teams advanced to the knockout stage during March 14 action. Rowley and Tom Farrington drew the lucky bye into the finals and watched as Rich Brozi and Rod Bussey advanced with a 21-17 victory over Neil Hennessey and Bob Lee. The final was a close, back-and-forth affair that saw Brozi and Bussey outlast Rowley and Farrington 21-19 to truly earn the day’s bragging rights. Play gets underway at 9 a.m. Wednesdays and Saturdays at the Anna Maria pits. Warmups begin at 8:45 a.m. followed by random team selection. There is no charge to play and everyone is welcome.

Holmes Beach teed off March 9 with the men playing a nine-hole modified-Stableford System match. Wayne Patterson dominated with a score of plus-7, three points ahead of Jon Holcomb and Jack Lowry, who finished in a tie for second with matching plus3s. Patterson also was the main cog in the first-place team of Dale Hudson, Dave Rinkey and Bob Soos that combined on a plus-7. The women played a nine-hole, individual-low-net match March 10 in four flights. Judy Christensen grabbed first-place honors in Flight A with a 1-over-par 33, two strokes ahead of a trio of second-place finishers, MaryLou Dreier, Carol Patterson and Roxanne Koche. Flight B was captured by Sue Christenson on a 2-under-par 30. Annette Hall was alone in second with a 1-over-par 33, while Gloria LaDue was another stroke back in third. Terry Westby carded a 5-under-par 27 to take first place in Flight C and tie for low round of the day. Peggi Clauhs took second place in the flight with an even-par 32. Monica Lawson won Flight D, matching Westby’s 5-under-par 27 and giving her a 5-shot victory over second-place finisher Anne Klein. The men were back on the par-32 course March 12 for the week’s nine-hole scramble. The team of Art McMillan, Larry Pippel and Larry Solberg combined on a 3-under-par 29 to earn clubhouse bragging rights for the day.

Registration opens for two adult leagues Adults can now register for spring soccer and basketball at the center. The fee for outdoor soccer is $10 for members and $106 for nonmembers. The last day to register will be April 2. Evaluations will be held on the field at 6 p.m. Thursday, April 2, and the schedule of games will start Wednesday, April 8, though the rest of the season’s games will be played Thursdays. Basketball registration continues until Monday, April 6, with the season starting Monday, April 13. The fee to play is $10 for members and $96 for nonmembers. Players can register online at centerami.org or in person at the center, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria. For more information, contact Tim Holly at timoKey Royale news thy@centerami.org or Connor Haughey at connor@ Last week’s golf action at the Key Royale Club in centerami.org or call 941-778-1908.

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Anna Maria Island Tides

Date

Mar 18 Mar 19 Mar 20 Mar 21 Mar 22 Mar 23 Mar 24 Mar 25

8:07p 12:15p 12:24p 12:34p 12:43p 12:06a 12:43a 1:19a

HIGH

1.9 1.4 1.5 1.5 1.6 1.9 1.8 1.8

— 9:32p 10:35p 11:24p — 12:51p 12:59p 1:11p

HIGH

LOW

— 1.9 1.9 1.9 — 1.6 1.7 1.9

3:25a 4:18a 5:00a 5:34a 6:03a 6:27a 6:48a 7:07a

-0.3 -0.3 -0.3 -0.2 -0.1 0.1 0.2 0.4

— 3:36p 4:37p 5:20p 5:55p 6:28p 6:59p 7:33p

LOW

Moon

— 1.3 1.0 0.8 0.6 0.4 0.3 New 0.1

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

March 18, 2020 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 25 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Fishing stays hot for spring break, no virus cooldown By Capt. Danny Stasny Islander Reporter

Spring time fishing is settling in around Anna Maria Island. You can tell by the appearance of shiners. And, until they close the bays and the Gulf, fishing will continue through the new coronavirus fears. Targeting the top trio of catchand-release species — snook, redfish and trout — is starting to heat up and Stasny should continue into April. Using live shiners as bait is achieving the best results for targeting these three species. For those looking to catch something for the fry pan, sheepshead are the top species, and fishing over structure in Tampa Bay is producing good action. Piers, docks, reefs, wrecks and bridges are all good areas to Other species being targeted for dinner include drop baits. As for bait, the choice of live shrimp works well, although, when the sheepies get finicky, it helps pompano and whiting. Both species can be caught along the sandy beaches of Anna Maria Island. Castto entice them with a fiddler crab or sand flea. ing jigs from shore is effective, but tipping jigs with fresh shrimp will increase your chances. Moving offshore, mangrove and yellowtail snapper are being reported in good numbers. Also, targeting permit over the offshore wrecks is worth a cast. Capt. Warren Girle is spending his days fishing inshore throughout the waters of Sarasota Bay and the Intracoastal Waterway. Using live shrimp as bait is yielding many catches, especially when fishing residential canals. Casting shrimp under docks in these areas is resulting in sheepshead, black drum and catchand-release redfish. Moving out in the open water over deep grass flats is producing good action on small jigs tipped with shrimp. Pompano are cooperating, as well as ladyfish, jack crevalle and numerous catch-andrelease spotted seatrout. Capt. Aaron Lowman is targeting sheepshead throughout Tampa Bay. Fishing around rock piles, wrecks, docks and shorelines along sandy beaches is yielding good numbers of these popular fish. Live shrimp as bait, combined with a knocker rig, is getting the job done. Catch-and-release snook, redfish and spotted seatrout are being enticed by sport fishers on live shiners. For the reds and snook, casting shiners along mangrove shorelines is producing the best action. As for the trout, deeper grass flats, where clean water exists, is the best bet. Capt. Jason Stock is venturing offshore when the Amy Skramstad of Minnesota shows off one winds are calm to fish the offshore ledges, where yelof many Spanish mackerel she and her family lowtail and mangrove snapper are hooking up with his caught March 11 on a fishing trip with Capt. Aaron anglers. Some mangrove snapper reach 10 pounds in Lowman. The macks ate live shiners and the group the same areas where Almaco jacks are biting. took home a few for their dinner, along with many Fishing offshore wrecks is proving good for permit, sheepshead and grunts. They fished inside Tampa according to Stock. Casting live crabs over wrecks is Bay, where, Lowman said, “there should be some resulting in some permit in the 30-pound class. great spring break fishing ahead.

Fishing Charters Capt. Warren Girle

Vic Heckler, left, and fellow angler Tony Boggia, both from Chicago, fished inshore March 10 using live shrimp for bait. They had success on black drum and pompano, and a likely fish fry that night. They were guided by Capt. Warren Girle.

Moving inshore on days when the winds are strong, Stock is putting clients on catch-and-release redfish, snook and trout. All three species are being caught on live shiners. Capt. David White is targeting inshore species on days when the winds are high and the seas are rough. Targeting sheepshead in Tampa Bay is providing good action and is enabling clients to put some fish in the cooler for dinner. Live shrimp on a bottom rig fished over reefs, wrecks and other structures is producing this bite. Casting jigs tipped with shrimp also is providing action for White’s clients. Fishing over deep grass areas with these jigs is luring pompano to bite, as well as jack crevalle and ladyfish. On warm sunny days, White is targeting snook along the mangrove-lined shore. To hook up with these fish, free-lined live shiners are the best option. Jim Malfese at the Rod & Reel Pier says sheepshead are the most abundant catch. Pier fishers using live shrimp as bait are catching near limits of the tasty fish. Most catches are ranging near 14 inches. While targeting the sheepies with shrimp, pier fishers are hooking into black drum and some catch-andrelease redfish. Casting shrimp away from the pier to the nearby sandy areas is yielding a few pompano, as well as some whiting. Send high-resolution photos and ﬁshing reports to ﬁsh@islander.org.

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Page 26 THE ISLANDER | islander.org March 18, 2020 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

isl

biz

By Sandy Ambrogi

Biz buying, selling, openings

New Sand Dollar opens old doors Julia Duytschaver reported to The Islander that the Sand Dollar — the gift boutique that closed in February due to a rent increase — has been rebranded as the Original Sand Dollar at the Island Shopping Center. In a quick turnaround, the new shop is open and returned to operation by original family members. The gift store, which originally opened in 1960, opened again March 11 and a special “pop-up” event is planned for 6-9 p.m. Friday, March 20, to welcome shoppers. “We will have all small local vendors, music and appetizers,” Duytschaver said. “And, best of all, we are returning 5% of our profits from the pop-up night

to the Women’s Resource Center in Bradenton. It’s all about paying it forward and it’s a cause we believe in.” Store hours are 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday-Saturday and noon-3 p.m. Sunday. For more information, call 941-527-6114. Carpet care owner flips over Seems Larry House, longtime owner of Fat Cat Carpet, Tile and Upholstery Cleaning, 5400A Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, is ready to stop cleaning and start hitting the links. That’s according to Nathan Monroe, who along with his mother, Nancy Jarvis, purchased the business. Monroe says they intend to maintain status quo. The company cleans carpets and upholstery and uses products safe for children and pets. Fat Cat is open 9 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Monday-Friday and Saturday by appointment. For more information, call 941-778-2882. New Compass Hotel to hold job fair April 7-9 will bring new opportunities as the Compass, Hotel, 12324 Manatee Ave., Perico Island, prepares to throw open the doors by late spring. A job fair will be 10 a.m.-7 p.m. at the Bradenton

Area Convention Center, 1 Haben Blvd., Palmetto, according to France Langan, Compass’ general manager. The hotel will open with 123 rooms, a Floridays restaurant and a resort pool. The development, east of the Anna Maria Island Bridge, is a joint venture of Margaritaville and Floridays. Bring a resume if you have one and a photo ID. For more information, call 847-517-9100. Stay busy, islanders!

Business tax increase moves forward in Holmes Beach

Holmes Beach city commissioners March 10 voted 4-0 to approve the first reading of an ordinance to increase the local business tax by 5%. Commissioner Pat Morton was absent with excuse. The state allows a 5% increase every two years. The city last increased its rate in 2018. A final reading and public hearing will be held along with a vote at the next city commission meeting at 6 p.m. Tuesday, March 24, at city hall, 5801 Marina Drive. — ChrisAnn Allen

Diana Sinisi

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A N N A M A R I A B E AC H 109 Palm Avenue Hannah Hillyard & George Myers 941-744-7358 A4461783 $2,495,000

QUEENS HARBOUR 3616 Fair Oaks Place Ian Addy, PA & E. Gail Wittig 941-961-8850 A4449455 $2,175,000

S H O R E AC R E S 867 N Shore Drive Ken Kavanaugh, Jr & Margo Love Story 941-799-1943 A4454292 $1,850,000

L O N G B OAT K E Y E S TAT E S 532 Rountree Drive Malihe Karimi 941-376-5099 A4456564 $900,000

M A I N S A I L B E AC H I N N 101 66th Street 6 Kristi Berger & Deborah Capobianco 941-730-3801 A4452260 $600,000

L O N G B OAT B E AC H H O U S E 4311 Gulf Of Mexico Drive 204 Sandi Layfield 941-914-2807 A4435114 $579,000

N O R T H B E AC H V I L L AG E 6250 Holmes Boulevard 53 Jim McElhinney 941-773-1199 A4457253 $530,000

T I DY I S L A N D 10 Tidy Island Boulevard Kathy Marshall 941-900-9777 A4452203 $489,000

HARBOUR VILL A C LUB 615 Dream Island Road 314 Cathy Meldahl & Susan Smith 941-724-7228 A4448279 $485,000

SMUGGLERS L ANDING 4113 129th Street W 206 Kathy Valente 941-685-6767 A4455881 $480,000

BRIDGEPORT 501 Gulf Drive N 305 Jodene Moneuse 941-302-4913 A4445601 $380,000

WE STBAY POINT & MOORINGS 6200 Flotilla Drive 267 Jaymie Carter 941-920-4573 A4445800 $330,000

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March 18, 2020 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 27 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

PropertyWatch

Compiled by Sandy Ambrogi

AMI CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Thursday, March 26 5 p.m. — Business Card Exchange, 421 Sweet Treats, 5337 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. $5 members, $10 guests. Thursday, April 9 11:30 a.m. — Member networking luncheon, IMG Academy Golf Club, 4350 El Conquistador Parkway, Bradenton. Members $18, guests $20. Saturday, April 11 10 a.m. — Beach ’n Food Truck & Music Festival, city ﬁeld, 5801 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Free to attend. Thursday, April 23 5 p.m. — Business card exchange, Anna Maria Island Historical Society, 402 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Members $5, guests $10. AMI chamber info, 941-778-1541, info@amichamber.org.

LONGBOAT KEY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Tuesday, March 24 5:30 p.m. — Business After Hours, Chubby’s Lounge, 6858 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key. Members $5, guests $10. Saturday, March 28 5:30 p.m. — Chamber “Savor the Sounds” musical concert series, Town Center Green, 555 Bay Isles Parkway, Longboat Key. $15 in advance, $20 at door, VIP tables $250. LBK chamber info, 941-387-9000.

By Jesse Brisson

Not available for March 18 Islander archive dates to 1992, available 24/7

The Islander is an invited participant in the digital newspaper library for the University of Florida George A. Smathers Libraries. The collection of Islanders date from the first edition in 1992. It’s all on the UofF digital OTHER EVENTS library site now. It can be found Tuesday, March 24 online at ufdc.ufl.edu. 4 p.m. — Manatee Chamber of Commerce Politics and Pints LI NE ST W IN G

BizCal

legislative review, Naughty Monk Brewery, 2507 Lakewood Ranch The Islander suggests readers Blvd., Lakewood Ranch. Members $30, guests $45. Information: check for cancellations or rescheduled activities. 941-748-4842.

Call & confirm!

319 Hardin Ave. Anna Maria, FL 34216 View on Zillow.com Realtor.com $415,000 Waterfront Ranch - 3 bedrooms $409,000 2 bath 80 ft waterfront with private dock. Island living at its best. Room for an RV & big boat.

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$1,595,000 Deep water canal no bridges $399,000 with big views.2 $140,000 Waterfront Leisure Lake. 2 bedroom 2bath bedroom , 2 bath with 2 car garage co-op community. $160 co-op fee parking. community pool. Top floor per month. Beautifully remodeled. unit.

$399,900 Updated 2 bedroom 2 bath condo. 2 covered parking spots. Sold furnished. Deeded beach access. Weekly rentals allowed.

$157,900 2 bedroom 2 bath community Anna Maria newly remodeled home. Over totalw/sf.clubhouse New pool, 2-car pool &4,000 golf course & fitness side-entry garage. 3+ bedrooms 3+ bath & restaurant. Community on the water Modern & bright. $995,000

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Buyers Brokers Welcome

Call 941-778-0509

WINNER: PARADE OF HOMES 2020

AMI SUN- COLOR ADBEST 3X4COMMUNITY 158068 01-15-20 RF

SAVE UP TO $90K

ON SELECT CONDOS AND

WE PAY YOUR CLOSING

COSTS & THROW IN A* WASHER/DRYER COMBO

WINNER: KEY LARGO BEST FLOOR PLAN

Now is your chance to purchase one of our spacious new condominiums for a limited time at exceptional pricing, plus these additional opportunities. Find your dream home that offers the Best of Florida on the Bay.

Anna Maria

41 Palma Sola

Sarasota

Call us today to book your personal tour because they won’t last long at these new prices! *See sales associate for details. Prices and availability subject to change without notice.

941-212-1533

3410 77TH ST. W., BRADENTON, FL 34209

Page 28 THE ISLANDER | islander.org March 18, 2020 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

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

FREEBIE ITEMS FOR SALE

BOATS & BOATING

BeACH LouNGe CHAIRS. Aluminum and webbing the old light-to-carry kind. $10 each. 616-402-6093.

Individuals may place one free ad with up to three items, each priced $100 or less, 15 words or less. FRee, one week, must be submitted online. email classifieds@islander. org, fax toll-free 1-866-362-9821. (limited time offer)

BIMINI BAY SAILING: Small sailboat rentals and instruction. Day. Week. Month. Sunfish, Laser, Windrider 17 and Precision 15. Call Brian at 941-685-1400.

GLASS TABLeToP: 48-inch round, 3/8-inch thick. Beveled edge. $75 or best offer. 941704-5349. WINe DeCANTeRS $10, CoMPuTeR keyboard $10, framed oil paintings $25. Like new. 941-920-2494. ANTIQue PARTNeR DeSK: All wood, $1,000. See at The Islander office, 3218 e. Bay Drive, Holmes Beach. 941-778-7978. FouR oAK oFFICe chairs: Antiques, perfect for eclectic dining set. The Islander newspaper, 3218 e. Bay Drive, Holmes Beach. 941-778-7978. The Islander is essential for residents and visitors. Get your news at islander.org.

Sandy’s Lawn Service Inc. ESTABLISHED IN 1983

Residential & Commercial Full-service lawn maintenance. Landscaping ~ Cleanups Hauling ~ Tree Trimming. LICENSED & INSURED

Paradise Improvements

941.792.5600

Kitchen and Bath Remodeling Specialist Replacement Doors and Windows

Andrew Chennault

FULLY LICENSED AND INSURED Island References Lic#CBC056755 CBC 1253471

RDI CONSTRUCTION INC. Residential & Condo Renovations Kitchens • Bath • Design Service Carpentry • Flooring • Painting Commercial & Residential

References available • 941-720-7519

AdoptA-Pet Honey is 5 years old. She is up to date with vaccinations, spayed and looking for a loving family. To meet this sweetie, call Lisa Williams at 941-345-2441 or visit The Islander ofﬁce in Holmes Beach. For more about pet adoption or to adopt Honey, visit moonraceranimalrescue.com. SPoNSoReD BY

ANSWERS TO MARCH 18 PUZZLE R A I S E

B U G L E R

C A B R E R A

S W I G

P A R A

I C O N

I A L U L M O P T T E D

M A C L A I N E

NACL

R O W A B A NACL I N O D S E P S M U E A T C E S O O NACL N D H I O N V I K E C E R Y B C R T L E S U E K E D

S A T I R E S

H O O K

A M E S I O W A

S U P A R S W A T T U E S M D I T Y L I E I N A Y O T H I T M O

R T H U O R O S W O U N T R A L S E T S I T H A L A R Y A X E C A P E R T A N E T D D T R I E S U T A H N S O M E W L A O E NACL O F S E L F S S E S

R E D F L A G I N F A N T D E U T

O L D F I E E R R A I N S N O F Y R A O N C P E A S D T S H E A N I D

P A L S A D L E R E A M C N I P D E S I P E R O N I N O F NACL N S T E T O D L E S R A V E I M A X E V E N T U E R U S E S P U R L A T N O W U S S E A R T H G L E S O L S

ANNOUNCEMENTS WANTeD: ANTIQue BoTTLeS, no screw tops, antique pottery, Indian artifacts, fossils and minerals. Serious sellers respond to Jonathan Melnick, P.o. Box 15832, Sarasota FL 34277. WANTeD: WoRKouT DVDs and retired but working xBox, Wii units with games for Ministry of Presence for kids and teens in Haiti. Deliver to The Islander, 3218 e. Bay Drive, Holmes Beach. WANTeD: YouR oLD cellphone for recycling. Deliver to The Islander, 3218 e. Bay Drive, Holmes Beach. AeRIAL PHoToS of Anna Maria Island. View and purchase online: www.jackelka.com. FRee GuN LoCK courtesy of Project Childsafe, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and Holmes Beach Police Department. Pick up at The Islander office, 3218 e. Bay Drive, Holmes Beach. Don’t be sorry, be safe. GARAGE SALES RoSeR THRIFT SHoP and annex open 9:30 a.m.-2 p.m. Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday. Donations preferred 9 a.m.-11 a.m. Wednesday. 511 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. 941-779-2733.

FoR SALe: JoHNSoN 9.9-hp boat motor with stand, gas tank. Runs, good condition. Located in Bradenton. Call 318-245-8328 or 318-245-8327. $700, photo upon request. FISHING LoCAL FISHING GuIDe for hire. Wanna catch more fish, have better bait, learn the local waters? Your boat, my knowledge. Call Nelly, 40 years local fishing experience. 941896-2915. HELP WANTED AMI Accommodations is looking to hire a full-time maintenance technician to help us create a welcoming environment for our guests and owners by ensuring our homes are well maintained. Previous maintenance experience preferred. Please, send resumes to careers@annamariaparadise.com. WANTeD: FuLL-TIMe server. Paradise Bagels Cafe. 3220 e. Bay Drive, Anna Maria Centre Shops. 941-779-1212. 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

GARAGe SALe: 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday, March 21. Art, plants, household, boating. 2519 Ave. B., Bradenton Beach.

KIDS FoR HIRe ads are FRee for up to three weeks for Island youths under 16 looking for work. Ads must be placed in person at The Islander office, 3218 e. Bay Drive, Holmes Beach.

ESTATE SALE

SERVICES

eSTATe SALe: 9:30 a.m.-3 p.m. Friday, March 20. 515 58th St., Holmes Beach. Leather sofa, curio, secretary, coffee and end tables, mid-century dresser and chest. Victorian bed and chest, wicker chests, lamps, costume jewelry, some artwork, including John Nielson and Sternberg. Patio set, kitchenware, linens, some tools and more. See estatesales.net for pictures. Sale conducted by Palma Sola Sales. Numbers given out at 8 a.m.

u FLY I drive your car anywhere in the uSA. Airport runs, anywhere. office, 941-4476389. 941-545-6688.

PETS

PReSSuRe WASHING, PAVeR sealing, driveway, roof, fence, pool area. Also, window cleaning. Licensed and insured. 941-5653931.

HeLP ReSCueD PeTS! Volunteer, foster, computer help needed! Moonracer Animal Rescue. email: moonraceranimalrescue@ gmail.com. TRANSPORTATION HARLeY-DAVIDSoN TRIKe. 100th Anniversary edition. excellent condition, many custom extras. 34,000 miles. Call/text, 864430-2229. THe ISLANDeR oFFeRS the best results for your classified advertising dollar. We really work for you! Submit your ad no later than noon Monday on the website, www.islander. org. For Monday holidays, the deadline is Friday.

PLACE CLASSIFIED ADS ONLINE AT WWW.ISLANDER.ORG

NeeD A RIDe to airports? Tampa $65, St. Pete, $55, Sarasota, $30. Gary, 863-4095875. gvoness80@gmail.com. CLeANING: VACATIoN, CoNSTRuCTIoN, residential, commercial and windows. Licensed and insured. 941-744-7983.

LooKING FoR AN eARLY BIRD? You can read Wednesday’s classifieds on Tuesday at www.islander.org. And it’s FRee!

p ro fe s s i o n a l

PHOTOGRAPHY VIDEO Advertising Real Estate Resorts Restaurants Web/Social Media

941-778-2711

March 18, 2020 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 29 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

I S L A N D E R C L A S S I F I E D S SERVICES Continued

LAWN & GARDEN Continued

RENTALS Continued

I DON’T CUT corners, I clean corners. Professional, friendly cleaning service since 1999. 941-779-6638. Leave message.

SEARAY SPRINKLER SERVICES. Repairs, additions, drip, sprinkler head/timer adjustments. Office, 941-518-6326. Cell, 720-2991661.

AVAILABLE SEASONAL RENTAL: OctoberApril 2020-21. 2BR/2BA, ground level, carport, patio. Block to gulf. Updated granite countertops, recessed lighting, flat-screen TVs in living room, TV room and bedrooms. Must See! Anna Maria. 941.565.2373.

HANDYMAN AND CLEANING services. Quick services for move in or out. Low rates. Call 941-356-1456. HANDYWOMAN: Light cleaning/laundry, organizing, errands, meal preparation, house/pet sitting, etc. Whatever you need, I’m happy to help you! I’m experienced, honest, jovial, very reliable and have exceptional references. To live your best life, give me a call today. 941-201-2142, Tammi. I’m flexible but structured so definite duties/ schedule and at least 20 hours per week would be greatly appreciated. BUSINESS-TO-BUSINESS JD’s Window Cleaning looking for storefront jobs in Holmes Beach. I make dirty windows sparkling clean. 941-920-3840.

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. SOUTHWEST HOME IMPROVEMENT: Michigan builder, quality work guaranteed. Affordable, timely, within budget. Call Mike, 1-616-204-8822.

TURN THE PAGE for more Islander classifieds.

CHRISTIE’S PLUMBING Family Owned and Operated since 1975

Residential -iÀÛ Vi

iÜÊ ÃÌÀÕVÌ ÊUÊ,i `i } Ê* >ÃiÃÊ vÊ* Õ L }Ê,i«> ÀÊEÊ-iÀÛ Vi {£ ÇÇn Î Ó{ÊÊ ÀÊ {£ ÇÇn {{È£ÊUÊxxän Ê >À >Ê À Ûi]Ê iÃÊ i>V

Gone All Summer? Home Unoccupied? Many Bad Things Can Happen

“Your Eyes Here – While You’re Away” Keeping Homes Safe For 28+ Years!

Protection Property Watch.com Call Jon Kent 941-920-0832

Island Limousine and Airport Transportation

Prompt, Courteous Service U New Vehicles 941.779.0043

,IVERY )NSUREDs !IRPORT 0ERMITTED

BEACH SERVICE AC, heat, refrigeration. Commercial and residential service. Serving Manatee County and the Island since 1987. Call Bill Eller, 941-795-7411. CAC184228.

AMI PAINTING: ISLAND resident. Prompt, reliable. Quality workmanship. Interior/exterior. Minor repairs, carpentry. Call Bill, 941307-9315.

ANYONE CAN TAKE a picture. A professional creates a portrait. I want to be at your wedding! www.jackelka.com. 941-778-2711.

HANDYMAN AND PAINTING. No job too small. Most jobs just right. Call Richard Kloss. 941-204-1162.

LAWN & GARDEN

RENTALS

CONNIE’S LANDSCAPING INC. Residential and commercial. Full-service lawn maintenance, landscaping, cleanups, hauling and more! Insured. 941-778-5294.

ANNUAL HOLMES BEACH: 2BR/1BA rental, quiet neighborhood, newly remodeled, single story, new appliances, screened back porch, storage area, private yard, RV/boat parking. $1,500-$1,600/month. 941-451-7403. msjuliesunshine@gmail.com.

LARRY’S BACK! SHELL delivered and spread. $55/yard. Hauling all kinds of gravel, mulch, topsoil with free estimates. Call Larry at 941-795-7775, “shell phone” 941-7200770.

SEASONAL RENTAL: HOLMES Beach. Dec 1-March 2020-21. 2BR/2BA duplex unit. Parking, no stairs, walk to beach. No pets, no smoking. $2,850/month. Contact: 403-512-2350. dlehto@telus. net. pkelly333333@hotmail.com, 519-8079426.

#CFC1426596

ANDREA WILKINSON PHOTOGRAPHY, wedding films and photography. View work at andreawilkinsonphotography.com. Call Andrea, 330-906-1274.

HOME IMPROVEMENT

HURRICANE

Windows & Doors 941-730-5045 WEATHERSIDE LLC

LIC#CBC1253145

RETIRED CNA OFFERING companion/ caregiver services for elderly in Bradenton area. Prepare meals, grocery shopping and errands, light housekeeping, etc. Experienced, honest, caring and reliable. References available. Daphne, 762-207-9683.

Bed: A bargain!

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

HOLMES BEACH: 2BR/2BA, beautifully furnished with garage. Eight-month availability. $1,800 month plus utilities. 941-778-2824.

$YDLODEOH $We

CLASSIFIED AD ORDER g ____________ ___________ ___________ ___________ ___________ ___________ nder.or___________

la s i . w w tw ____________ ___________ ___________ ___________ ___________ e a___________ n i l n o s d ad ___________ ___________ ___________ ____________ ___________ ___________ e fi i s s a ce cl ___________ ___________ ___________ ___________ ____________ Pla___________

___________ ___________ ___________

CLASSIFIED RATES: Minimum $12 for up to 15 WORDS. 16-30 words: $20. 31-45 words: $40. BOX ad: additional $4. (Phone number is a "word.")

The deadline is NOON Monday every week for Wednesday’s paper. Run issue date(s) _________

_________

AMI CENTRE, 3218 E. BAY DRIVE, HOLMES BEACH 941 778-7978 • WWW.ISLANDER.ORG

IMPROVE YOUR CURB APPEAL! Horticultural Design Services | Landscape Construction Landscape Maintenance | Irrigation Installation & Repair Brick & Stone Pavers | Walls, Gates, Fences | Tree Trimming Low Volt Outdoor Lighting Repair & Installation

_________ or TFN start date: ______________

Amt. pd _________________ Date _____________ Ck. No.� _________ Cash � _______ By _________

d � u No.

_____________________________________________________

Name shown on card: ____________________________________________card exp. date ______ / ______ House no. or P.O. box no. on cc bill ________________________Billing address zip code ________________ Your e-mail for renewal reminder: ____________________________________________________________

Web site: www.islander.org 3218 E. Bay Drive Holmes Beach FL 34217

E-mail: classifieds@islander.org Fax toll free: 1-866-362-9821 Phone: 941-778-7978

FOR MORE INFO 941.704.9025 ShadyLadyFL.com OUR BEST PRACTICES PROMISE IS APPLIED TO RESIDENTIAL OR COMMERCIAL CONSTRUCTION & MAINTENANCE.

317924

Credit card payment: �

Page 30 THE ISLANDER | islander.org March 18, 2020 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

I S L A N D E R C L A S S I F I E D S RENTALS Continued

RENTALS Continued

REAL ESTATE Continued

3BR/2BA, FIRST FLooR, SPACIouS, classy, 2020 total renovation. Beautiful, quiet Westbay Point & Moorings. Monthly, FloridaRentalbyowners.com. #1590. Also, #1106, 2BR/2BA, gorgeous bay views. Monthly. Kayaks and bikes included. Sue, 207-944-6097.

HoLMeS BeACH: NeWeR furnished 2BR/2BA. 2021 season cancellation now available. $3,300/month. Normal restrictions apply. 941-778-2824.

oPeN HouSe: GReAT beach house. 1-3 p.m. Sunday, March 22. Park and enter this Sandpiper unit off 26th Street, unit B24 (beside Sharkyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s). Waterview, composite decking with privacy landscaping for large side tile patio. exceptional property. 870 sf 2BR/1BA. 614-598-6276.

ANNuAL ReNTAL: HoLMeS Beach 2BR/2BA with bonus room, garage, washer/dryer hookup. Small dog considered with pet fee. Available immediately. $1,900/month. Call Island Vacation Properties, 941-778-1000.

SUNBOW BAY

GuLF BeACHFRoNT: 1BR/1BA Via Roma, first floor. Complex renovated 2019, full kitchen, living, dining area, saltwater pool, hot tub. April 4-11. $1,000. 941-962-0940. REAL ESTATE LoWeST PRICeD HoMe for sale in Holmes Beach. Adorable. 3BR/2BA. 1,221sf. Fantastic back yard with large covered porch. Two blocks to beach. $449,000. Contact Kym Paxton with Keller Williams on the Water. 941-932-5511. PaxtonGlobal.com.

â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;We are THE island.â&#x20AC;&#x2122;

Call Lance Collins, Realtor 317-702-5709 lancecollins301@ gmail.com

STePS To BeACH! 4BR/4BA beach duplex now available on Anna Maria Island! unique design totally separates each unit. No common walls. oversized lot, large decks, huge carports, wood floors, central A/C, washer and dryer hookups, ceiling fans, ncely updated, weekly rentals oK. $749,900. open House, 1-4 p.m. Sunday, March 22. 403 Clark Lane, Holmes Beach. Chard Winheim, Horizon Realty, 941-713-6743.

New Location Same Great Service

Come see this top-ďŹ&#x201A;oor, 2BR/2BA waterfront unit at Sunbow Bay. Stunning water views from living room, master bedroom and porch. Updated bathrooms and appliances. Condo offers two pools, tennis/pickle ball court, two docks and building elevator. All of this for $359,000.

SINCE 1957

9906 Gulf Drive www.annamariareal.com 941 778-2259 dina@annamariareal.com

2501 Gulf Drive, Ste 102, Bradenton Beach

EST. 1978

Mike Norman Realty

DREAM CONDO Everything is new in this direct Gulffront dream condo! Sweeping views all the way to Bean Point! Huge swiming pool on the Gulf, covered parking, storage, elevator and much more. Well maintained complex. Come see all that Anna Maria Island Club has to offer. $769,000.

BUYING OR SELLING? CALL DOLLY.

VACATION/SEASONAL RENTALS GULFFRONT PROPERTIES BOOKING NOW ANNUAL RENTALS AVAILABLE AT HERONâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S WATCH AND IN HOLMES BEACH tdolly1@yahoo.com â&#x20AC;˘ www.tdollyyoungrealestate.com

WE ROCK ONLINE

SURF SIDE New 4bed/4.5 bath/2car pool home with partial Gulf views, rooftop sundeck, incredible pool and spa area. This amazing home was built with the details in mind, and the rental potential is through the roof. Call today. 941.713.4755

Jesse Brisson, Broker Associate, GRI 941-713-4755, jbrisson@kw.com You can read it all online at www.islander.org

PERICO BAY CLUB, AS GOOD AS IT GETS!

ď&#x201A;ˇ Real Estate Sales ď&#x201A;ˇ Vacation Rentals & SUN WED N ď&#x201A;ˇ Annual Rentals E P O ď&#x201A;ˇ Property Management ď&#x201A;ˇ Concierge Service Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re â&#x20AC;&#x153;Seriousâ&#x20AC;? about our Customer Service!

Professional Service to Anna Maria Island and Bradenton Since 1974

941-778-0807

MIKE NORMAN REALTY

For professional real estate sales, call a true island native, born and raised on Anna Maria Island. Marianne Norman-Ellis. 941.778.6696

Full Service Property Management & Sales Dina Franklin (owner) Licensed Sales Associate & Property Manager

EXPERIENCE REPUTATION RESULTS SALES/RENTALS

islander.org

ALE

ING S

PEND

837 Waterside Lane, 518 Sanderling Circle, 1228 Spoonbill Landings

Your full service Real Estate Agency providing exceptional customer service for all your short or long $314,900 $259,900 Circle, $262,700 erm goals. Whether youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re staying a few days or a lifetime, we will help you find your perfect ccommodation.

LE ALE G SA ING S everything you might needâ&#x20AC;Śâ&#x20AC;Ś..buy, rent and finance your One stop shop. WeEcan provide piece DINof PEN P ND paradise.

7 0 4 E s t u a r y D r i v e , 1107 Edgewater Circle, 503 Sanderling Circle, $299,900 $319,500 $269,900

Direct Gulffront condo located in quiet area of the island. Well maintained 10-unit complex with solar heated pool and weekly rentals allowed. Miguel Rosa (941)4475928 #A4443253. $499,500

Exceptional Gulffront complex with heated pool, tennis/pickle ball. Top ďŹ&#x201A;oor corner, turnkey furnished, weekly rentals. Beautiful condo, excellent second home or investment. Miguel Rosa 941-447-5928 #A4453558. $530,000

Well maintained, fully furnished triplex in great Bradenton Beach location. Steps from the beach! Miguel Rosa (941) 4475928 #A4457028. $1,399,500

You deserve the island life! Large 4BR/3BA with attached 2BR/1BA, separate driveways and outdoor living space. Groundlevel, completely updated, features alley garage. Lisa Marie Allen (941) 720-6674 #A4462436. $999,000

â&#x20AC;&#x153;We Work Hard To Make Your Life Easier!â&#x20AC;?

â&#x20AC;&#x153;We Work Hard To Make Your Life Toll Easier!â&#x20AC;? #ALL ,YNN :EMMER 941-778-8104 Ofc 877-778-0099 Free

104 Bridge Street, Bradenton Beach OR EMAIL LYNN EDGEWATERAMI COM

941-248-0882

www.edgewatervacationhomes.com www.Edgewaterrealestateinc.com www.941lending.com 106 Bridge St., Bradenton Beach 941-778-8104 Ofc 877-778-0099 Toll Free 104 Bridge Street, Bradenton Beach

WHAT’S SHAKING?

BY LAURA TAYLOR KINNEL / EDITED BY WILL SHORTZ

45 Subject of many a negotiation 1 Boasts 46 Days ____ 6 Longtime anthropomorphic 47 Jeanne d’Arc, e.g.: aardvark on PBS Abbr. 12 Australia’s national 48 Enlivens women’s basketball 52 Big feller? team 17 Sounds “everywhere,” 53 Fails to be in a children’s song 54 City on the Brazos River 18 Gloomy 55 Propeller blades? 19 Soup server 57 ____ Crunch 20 Add insult to injury 59 Gobs 22 “Whenever I want you, all I have to do” 64 Item often numbered is this, in an Everly from 3 to 9 Brothers hit 65 Boardwalk buy 23 Farming prefix 68 Gush 24 “Gracias a ____” 69 Time magazine’s 25 Jam producer Person of the 27 Jack Frost’s bite Century runner-up, 1999 29 Bits of terre in la mer 30 Churns 71 Strain 32 Author Harper 72 ____ Westover, author of the 2018 33 He loved Lucy best-selling memoir 34 Dry “Educated” 35 Tea type 73 Big name in theaters 36 “A Life for the ____” 74 Till compartment (Mikhail Glinka opera) 76 “Silent Spring” subject, for short 38 1940s vice president who went on to 78 Nothingburger become president 80 Descartes’s 39 “In Praise of Folly” conclusion writer 83 Energy 41 How to take glib 84 Least interesting promises 86 It gets the ball rolling 44 Dog/dog separator 87 2002 Winter Olympics Online subscriptions: Today’s locale puzzle and more Answers: 90 Looks through than 4,000 past puzzles, page 28 nytimes.com/crosswords 94 Abdominal-pain ($39.95 a year). producer AC RO SS

95 Way of securing payment 96 Fizzy drinks 98 Knitting stitch 99 “Holy ____!” 100 Word after bargain or overhead 101 Emulated a kitten 102 ____ expense (free) 103 Org. with the slogan “Every child. One voice.” 104 Brand with the slogan “The Art of Childhood” 107 What flies usually become 109 Wimp 110 It’s held by a winner 112 You, according to Jesus in Matthew 5:13 115 Follow 116 Reflexive pronoun 117 Fishes 118 Moved like Jagr? 119 Shaded growths 120 Lil Nas X and Billie Eilish, to teenagers

Laura Taylor Kinnel of Newtown, Pa., teaches math and is the director of studies at a Friends boarding school near Philadelphia. She has been solving crosswords since childhood but just started constructing them a little over a year ago. A cousin who solved a 2018 Christmas puzzle of Laura’s encouraged her to make more. She was pleasantly surprised to discover all the help available online to new puzzle makers. This is her second Times crossword, both Sundays. — W.S.

RELEASE DATE: 3/22/2020

New York Times Sunday Magazine Crossword

March 18, 2020 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 31 ............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... No. 0315

7 Column crosser 8 Brings (out) 9 Time of day 10 Sch. with 50+ alums who went on to become astronauts 11 Warning sign 12 Blast from the past 13 Setting for a classic Georges Seurat painting, en français 14 Fruity quaff 15 South American cowboys 16 Like Havarti or Muenster 17 Reveille player 20 Jack up 21 Repeated part of a pop song 26 Kind of wheel 28 Peak 31 Heroine of Bizet’s “The Pearl Fishers” 33 Cozy spot 35 Shows how it’s done 36 Climate change, notably 37 State 38 Refried bean DOWN 40 Astronaut Jemison 1 Orlando ____, two-time of the space shuttle Gold Glove Award Endeavour winner 42 Reduction in what one 2 Almost won owes 3 Martial artist’s belt 43 Headaches 4 Appurtenance for a 45 Nursery-rhyme T.S.A. agent couple 5 Many Dorothy Parker 48 Gulp pieces 49 Prefix with medic or 6 Big 12 college town military

25 30

34 40

52 57

100 105

107

108

113

109 114

116

117

118

119

120

66 Evasive maneuver 67 Opposite of “to” 70 Behave like a helicopter parent 75 Attendant of Desdemona in “Othello” 77 Lightly roast 79 Continental abbr. 80 Clustered 81 Meted out 82 Best-actress Oscar winner between Streep and Field

115

50 Princess Diana, for one 51 Negotiator with G.M. 53 Suckling 56 Disco ____ (“The Simpsons” character) 58 Memorized 60 Exasperate 61 Fabric with sheen 62 Actress ____ Rachel Wood 63 Potential source of a political scandal

102

106

112

101

104 111

90 96

78 85

110

59 67

103

74 81

32 36

44 49

84 Agent of change 85 Attention seekers 88 Critical 89 Fictional exemplar of Christmas spirit 90 Stir-fried noodle dish 91 Sews up 92 Senator Joni and Dadaist Max 93 What water in a bucket might do 97 Source of the line “Man does not live by bread alone”: Abbr.

100 Boxer, for example 101 Handcuffs 104 This, for one 105 “____ be in England” 106 Not so much 108 Post 111 “Tut-tut” 113 Argentina’s leading daily sports newspaper 114 Super ending

Visit WWW.ISLANDER.ORG for the best news on Anna Maria Island.

Twin Heron is her Name! 4BD/3.5BA island gem is just steps to the Gulf of Mexico and amazing island sunsets. Great as a full-time home or a very successful vacation rental! $1,399,000

Waterfront Gem! Totally renovated waterfront 1BD/1BA bungalow in Seaside Gardens! Coastal kitchen and free-flowing living area opens to waterside patio and boat dock! $429,900

Maintenance Free Living! 2BD/2BA turnkey furnished condo! Enjoy maintenance-free living with steps to the beach. Heated pool and private garage parking! $370,000

Panoramic Views! Waterfront retreat at the north end. Charming beach home offers 3BD/3.5BA, open kitchen, bonus room and large deck you will never want to leave! $1,950,000

Gulf Views The largest piece of R2-zoned property for sale west of Gulf Drive! Build two 4-bedroom homes with two private pools on this oversized lot. $2,395,000

Pine Bay Forest! 2BD/2BA condo with open kitchen, tile flooring throughout, tankless water heater, new AC and roof. Close to Robinson Preserve, DeSoto Park & AMI Beaches! $207,900

Ground Level at the Nautilus! Gulf side, 2BD2BA condo! Featuring updated kitchen, beautiful tile flooring, turnkey furnishings, heated pool, tennis and short stroll to beach! $499,000

Prime Location! West of Gulf Drive - 10,000 square foot R2 lot! $498,800

Page 32 THE ISLANDER | islander.org March 18, 2020 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................