The Islander Newspaper E-Edition: Wednesday, July 31, 2019 by The Anna Maria Islander Newspaper

Summer celebrations. 12

Tracking turtles. 22

AMITW July 26: 499 nests, 795 false crawls, 118 hatched nests. Astheworldterns ask: What do you recall? 6

Kingfish murders. 16-17

YEARS AGO

JULY 31, 2019 FREE

VOLUME 27, NO. 40

anna maria strikes deal for pier buildings. 3 firefighters rescue lost boater. 3 BB reviews Sunshine litigation. 4

Meetings

on the government calendar. 4

Op-Ed. 6 10-20 YEARS AGO

from the archives. 7

Budget talks begin. 8-9

Save the date. 10

Happenings announcements. 11-12 HB skate park, preserve plans updated. 13

Streetlife. 14 Gathering

CHURCH HAPPENINGS. 18

Obituaries. 19

AME news. 20 resolving against offshore drilling. 21

The Best News on Anna Maria Island Since 1992

islander.org

Treehouse owners push case back to circuit court By Kathy Prucnell islander reporter

One treehouse case is branching off from the federal to the county courthouse. A month after the city of Holmes Beach removed the case to the U.S. District CourtMiddle District of Florida in Tampa, the treehouse owners dropped their federal claims and are poised to push the case back to the 12th Circuit Court at the Manatee County Judicial Center. Owners Lynn Tran and Richard Hazen, represented by Sarasota attorney David Levin, of Icard Merrill, filed a new pleading July 16, followed by an “unopposed” motion — having consulted with the city’s representatives for the case, the law firm of Trask Daigneault of Clearwater, who agreed to remand the case to state court the next day. The case was one of two treehouse cases in federal court as of July 26. Two similar cases are pending in the 12th Circuit. Tran and Hazen live and operate four short-term rental units at 103 29th St., where they built the beachfront structure in an Australian pine tree without city or state permits.

In the latest federal complaint — leading to the move back to state court — the owners are continuing to challenge a city setback as preempted by state law, but “deleted all allegations and references to the U.S. Constitution, leaving only allegations pertaining to state law claims,” according to the owners’ motion to remand. Attorney Jay Daigneault of Trask Daigneault said he would not oppose the

move back to state court. “The case was removed based on federal questions. Now it’s purely a matter of state law. There’s no sense in being obstinate,” Daigneault said July 25. The treehouse litigation, dating back to 2013, centers on the structure’s location within the city setback for the state erosioncontrol line. The line was established to PLeaSe See Treehouse, Page 2

Top Notch

AM commissioner bows out of race By ryan Paice islander reporter

e-scooter fun. 23 from gridiron to pitch. 24 gone fishing — in the rain. 25

ISL BIZ am reviews sign regulations. 26-27

PropertyWatch. 28 CLASSIFIEDS. 28 nYt crossword puzzle. 31

One Anna Maria city commissioner is out of the running. Facing a campaign for another term on the Nov. 5 ballot, Commissioner Doug Copeland announced at the July 25 city meeting that he would not seek re-election. “At this time I would like to announce that I will not be seeking re-election and would like to encourage some of our very talented citizens to seek that seat,” Copeland said during his turn for comments at the city meeting. Commission Chair Brian Seymour called the announcement a “bombshell.” He and Commissioner Carol Carter thanked Copeland for his service to the community. Copeland previously served many years as a volunteer member of the city planning board. Seymour added, “He’s served the city so well for so many years.”

Week Six: Looking up for fun John Lafferty of Lakeland wins the sixth and final week of the islander’s top notch photo contest with this summer-splashed photograph of Barrett Strong, Bryant Strong, Hudson Lloyd and everett Lloyd relaxing on a pool float on anna maria island. Lafferty took the photo over the July 4 weekend. He won an islander “more-than-a-mullet wrapper” t-shirt and entry into the finals, which offers a grand prize of $100 from the islander and gift certificates from mister roberts resort Wear, cupcake delights, mr. Bones BBQ, add the Sea, Slim’s Place and island coffee Haus. next week, the islander names the tops in this year’s top notch contest.

Copeland’s decision comes less than a month before candidate qualifying begins in the city. Prospective candidates have Aug. 19-30 to provide the Manatee County Supervisor of Elections Office with a candidate oath, a statement of candidate or party, financial disclosure forms, as well as the qualifying fee or certification of petition. Seats held by Commissioners Dale

Woodland and Carter also are up for reelection. Woodland said in a July 26 interview with The Islander that he will seek re-election and has begun the steps to qualify. Carter wrote in a July 26 text to The Islander that she also will seek another term. Commissioners serve two-year terms and receive a $4,800 annual stipend.

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Beachgoer Mary Ellen Tacy, of Holmes Beach, pauses before sunset to talk about the plight of the treehouse, behind her on the beach near 29th Street in Holmes Beach. Tacy said people didn’t like the way the treehouse came about in 2011, but now seem OK with it. “What harm is it doing?” she asked. Islander Photo: Kathy Prucnell Treehouse continued from page 1

divide public and private property based on the highmean tide line. A permanent high-tide line was established by the state in 1992 prior to a beach renourishment project. The owners claim the setback is an unconstitutional property rights taking. The city contends the issue was already decided and cannot be relitigated based on a legal doctrine known as the finality of judgments or res judicata. In state court earlier this year, 12th Circuit Judge Edward Nicholas ruled he would hear the state constitutional challenge — the to-be remanded case — before a city-initiated case to enforce 2013 and 2016 code board and magistrate decisions calling for the structure’s removal and fines. The dispute began in 2011 after an anonymous complaint alerted the city to construction on the beach. The city referred the complaint to the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, which came back

In addition to the pending constitutional and city code enforcement cases, ongoing treehouse litigation as of July 26 involves two cases opened by the owners — without an attorney — in 2018. In a state court case, an amended verified complaint alleges negligence and violation of rights and seeks injunctive relief and unspecified money damages against the city and DEP. In that case, Judge Charles Sniffin is expected to hear city and DEP motions to dismiss Sept. 10 at the Manatee County Judicial Center, 1051 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton. On the owners’ third amended complaint, alleging similar claims against the city in federal court, a city motion is pending. That motion claims the latest pleading tries to advance claims that were or could have been litigated in previous cases and, “in the interest of finality,” asks for dismissal with prejudice. U.S. District Judge James Moody is expected to rule on that motion without a hearing. Tran told The Islander in a July 26 email she plans to continue her fight to protect her treehouse and propto the city for a letter of no objection. In July 2013, the code board ordered Tran and erty rights and will continue challenging what she calls Hazen to remove the structure, a decision that was the city’s unreasonable fines. She also promised “more soon.” revisited by a special magistrate who, in 2016, fined the owners $50 a day dating to July 2015 — now at more than $73,250. Judge Janette Dunnigan, now retired, upheld the code enforcement decisions against constitutional challenge. She ruled against the owners’ arguments on the unconstitutionality of the city setback and reprimanded city officials for giving bad advice — although there were no building plans or applications — before Tran and Hazen built the treehouse without permits. The owners opened another front in state court in 2013, petitioning for a citywide vote to grandfather the treehouse, which was lost on appeal to the U.S. Supreme Court. In January 2018, the high court declined to review a circuit court decision based on Treehouse owners Richard Hazen, left, Lynn Tran a state statute that prohibits referenda and initiatives and attorney David Levin attend a Holmes Beach relating to development orders. hearing in 2013.

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July 31, 2019 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 3 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Anna Maria strikes deal for construction of pier buildings

By Ryan Paice Islander Reporter

A deal is in place for the construction of a restaurant and bait shop on the T-end of the new Anna Maria City Pier. City commissioners voted 5-0 July 25 to approve a $967,000 contract with Mason Martin of Holmes Beach for the construction of the T-end buildings. Commissioners previously chose the contractorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s $1,041,101 bid for the job over three more expensive bids. Mason Martin is a Holmes Beach-based contractor owned by Frank Agnelli and Jake Martin. Each of the partners have built and remodeled island homes for more than 10 years. The contract gives Mason Martin 200 days to complete work on the buildings, setting Feb. 10, 2020, as the deadline for completion. The deal allows the contractor to apply to the city commission to extend the deadline as needed, through change orders. Mason Martin is permitted to work on the pier 7 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday-Saturday. The city will pay the contractor 20% of the contract cost upon mobilization of equipment and materials, 25% more when Mason Martin frame out the pier buildings, another 25% after the exterior is enclosed, 20% when power is hooked up and the final 10% upon substantial completion. Mayor Dan Murphy said the final contract is $74,000 less than the contractorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s original bid due in part to $18,500 in savings gained from changing the siding on the bait shop and restaurant from kebony to hardie-board. Hardie-board is a fiber-cement product that is fireproof and resistant to insects and vermin. Murphy attributed a savings on mobilization costs to Agnelli, who suggested employing the i+iconSOUTHEAST barge â&#x20AC;&#x201D; already on the job â&#x20AC;&#x201D; to transport materials to the site. I+iconSOUTHEAST is set to complete work constructing the pier walkway and T-end by September,

giving Mason Martin a month of overlap on its job. The contractor is planning to begin work on the pier buildings as soon as possible. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We have a good agreement here,â&#x20AC;? Murphy said. Meanwhile, Miller Electric, a subcontractor, is installing electric service to the pier. Wiring is the last step in completing the understructure of the pier, before i+iconSOUTHEAST installs decking on the walkway and the T-end. The new pier â&#x20AC;&#x201D; estimated to total $5.9 million for demolition and construction â&#x20AC;&#x201D; replaces the historic Anna Maria City Pier, which was built in 1911, although there were numerous remodels before it was Brad and Dawn Huthviance of Trinity, Florida, told deemed destroyed by Hurricane Irma in September The Islander July 27 they â&#x20AC;&#x153;love AMIâ&#x20AC;? on a visit to the 2017. Anna Maria City Pier. Islander Photo: Jack Elka

Firefighters rescue lost boater near Passage Key By Kathy Prucnell Islander Reporter

A couple was returning to Kingfish Boat Ramp after a trip to Egmont Key when the man at the helm noticed his significant other â&#x20AC;&#x201D; a woman in her 30s â&#x20AC;&#x201D; was missing. The man searched the water as twilight became dark June 22, but to no avail. At 8:40 p.m., he called 911 on his cellphone. West Manatee Fire Rescue Battalion Chief Ryan Moore reported on the nighttime rescue at the July 16 district commission meeting. After some confusion as to the whereabouts of the emergency, a WMFR team of firefighter/paramedics found the caller after 17 minutes on his boat, east of Passage Key. Five minutes later, using spotlights and heatseeking, night vision goggles, the rescuers spotted the woman struggling in the water and yelling for help. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It was a really good outcome to what could have been a horrible situation,â&#x20AC;? Moore said. The WMFR team pulled the woman, who wore

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no life vest, into their 30-foot rescue boat, rendered first aid and transported her to the Rod & Reel Pier in Anna Maria to an awaiting ambulance, which took her to Blake Medical Center in Bradenton with non-lifethreatening injuries. Moore led a crew consisting of Derrick Bill, Frank Agresta, Zachary Benshoff, Josh Adkins and Brendon Hostetler, who had hightailed the district boat from its dock at the Holmes Beach boat ramp on 63rd Street, near Westbay Point & Moorings. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We were the closest unit and we were there first. The boat performed flawlessly,â&#x20AC;? he said, adding the rescue equipment played a role in their success. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We found her so quickly, the helicopters didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have time to get off the ground.â&#x20AC;? The U.S. Coast Guard Cortez Station and Manatee County emergency services, marine and lifeguard units also got the emergency call. Moore told The Islander that not everyone is as fortunate as the boaters that day. He said, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Basically itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s just a head bobbing in water and people get exhausted very quickly.â&#x20AC;?

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Bradenton Beach reviews Sunshine litigation, strategizes

By chrisann Silver esformes islander reporter

The trial is over. And the judge ruled for the city. But the division of court costs and legal fees for the case of the city of Bradenton Beach and ex-mayor Jack Clarke versus six former volunteer board members for violating Florida’s Government-in-the-Sunshine Law is undetermined. The mayor and commissioners met July 26 in a special meeting, followed by a shade meeting, to discuss how to a proceed to a hearing for sanctions — legal fees and court costs. A shade meeting allows a government body to privately meet with council to discuss litigation strategy, settlement negotiations or expenditures. Following the closed portion of the shade meeting, the commission approved 4-0 a motion to “pursue any and all remedies available to the city of Bradenton Beach.” Commissioner Randy White was absent with excuse. mapes At the conclusion of the July 15-19 trial at the Manatee County Judicial Center, 12th Judicial Circuit Judge Edward Nicholas ruled in favor of the city and Clarke. However, he allowed time before another hearing to determine sancmetz tions. The suit, filed by the city and Clarke in August 2017, alleged Sunshine Law violations by former P&Z board members Reed Mapes, John Metz, Patty Shay and Bill Vincent, and Scenic Waves Partnership martin Committee members Tjet Martin and Rose Vincent, all of whom were members of the nowdefunct grass-roots group Concerned Neighbors of Bradenton Beach. Clarke and the city, represented by attorney Robert Watrous and paralegal Michael Barfield, successfully made their case that the board members violated the Sunshine Law by discussing city matters

Bradenton Beach mayor John chappie, left, and commissioners marilyn maro, ralph cole and Jake Spooner, listen July 26 as city attorney ricinda Perry reads a portion of the judgment from a recent lawsuit — decided in favor of the city at city hall. islander Photo: chrisann Silver esformes

at CNOBB meetings and through emails, texts and phone calls. “Clearly, public business was discussed at many, and virtually, all of the CNOBB meetings,” Nicholas said in his ruling July 19. “This is not a close call.” By the time the case went to trial, all defendants but Metz represented themselves, citing climbing legal costs. The defendants said as of May 31 and prior to the trial, their combined costs for the suit were nearly $250,000. At the July 26 meeting, city treasurer Shayne Thompson provided Shay the commission with a report stating the city’s costs and fees had reached $326,306.08 before the trial. City attorney Ricinda Perry said with the addition of the trial and her costs, the city’s costs will rise to about $450,000. Vincent She said before the case went to trial that the city made an offer that would allow the defendants to each pay fines of $500 and admit they violated the Sunshine Law to end the matter.

“The city offered so many chances for everyone to move forward,” Perry said. “Those offers were rejected, knowing that attorney’s fees were mounting.” Barfield said July 26 the city’s legal expenses reflect the struggle getting the defendants to submit their records for the case. “A significant portion of the efforts of the fees incurred by the city related to what we didn’t know,” he said. He added that the city had suspicions the defendants were withholding evidence, which wasn’t supported until witness Michael Harrington, former webmaster for CNOBB, provided a flash drive containing emails exchanged between the defendants that had not previously been submitted. Barfield also noted that Nicholas found the claims and evidence put forward by the defendants to be “‘contrived, after-the-fact and not credible.’” “Those, we believe, are the magic words for sanctions that will be imposed by the court, when the court is fully aware of the efforts the city made to try and resolve this case, pretrial, and those offers were rejected by the defendants,” Barfield said. “We think we are well-positioned to recover, if not all, a significant portion of the city’s fees.

Holmes Beach calls on U.S. Justice Department to clarify ADA requirements for city websites By chrisann Silver esformes islander reporter

Holmes Beach is covering its bases when it comes to website compliance with the U.S. Americans with Disabilities Act. City commissioners voted 4-0 July 23 to adopt a resolution urging the U.S. Department of Justice

to clarify the requirements for ADA compliance on municipal websites. Mayor Judy Titsworth and Commissioner Rick Hurst were absent with excuse. The city took down its website in March, due to concerns about compliance with the ADA, a civil rights law that prohibits discrimination based on disability.

Meetings

WMFR administration building, 6510 Third Ave. W., Bradenton, wmfr.org. Anna Maria City July 31, 10 a.m., historic preservation board. Manatee County Aug. 8, 6 p.m., commission. Aug. 1, 9 a.m., commission (land use). Aug. 13, 4 p.m., planning and zoning. Aug. 6, 9 a.m., county commission. Aug. 19-30, candidate qualifying. Aug. 20, 9 a.m., county commission. Aug. 21, 5:30 p.m., special magistrate. Administration building, 1112 Manatee Ave. W., Aug. 22, 6 p.m., commission. Anna Maria City Hall, 10005 Gulf Drive, 941- Bradenton, 941-748-4501, mymanatee.org. 708-6130, cityofannamaria.com. Of interest Aug. 20, 2 p.m., Coalition of Barrier Island Bradenton Beach Elected Officials, Anna Maria City Hall. July 31, 10 a.m., commission. Sept. 2 is Labor Day, when most government Aug. 26-30, candidate qualifying. Bradenton Beach City Hall, 107 Gulf Drive N., offices will be closed, as will The Islander office. Sept. 16, 2 p.m., Island Transportation Planning 941-778-1005, cityofbradentonbeach.org. Organization, Bradenton Beach City Hall. Sept. 16, 9 a.m., Manatee County Tourist DevelHolmes Beach opment Council, Sarasota-Bradenton International July 31, 10 a.m., special magistrate. Airport, 5900 Airport Lane, Sarasota. Aug. 7, 6 p.m., planning commission. Sept. 24, 9:30 a.m., Holiday Inn-Sarasota-BraAug. 27, 6 p.m., commission. denton International Airport, 8009 15th St. E., SaraAug. 26-30, candidate qualifying. Holmes Beach City Hall, 5801 Marina Drive, sota. Nov. 5, general election. 941-708-5800, holmesbeachﬂ.org. West Manatee Fire Rescue None announced.

Please, send notices to calendar@islander.org and news@islander.org.

Since then, the city hired Revize Software Systems of Troy, Michigan, which created a placeholder site, to be followed by a permanent site. ADA compliant websites provide audio versions of written materials, such as PDF files, for the visually impaired, and sites must meet standards that help avoid seizures for some viewers. Commission Chair Jim Kihm said the Florida League of Cities informed him of the model resolution, which urges the federal government to proKihm vide “clear standards” for ADA compliance and protect the city from litigation endured by other cities for noncompliant websites. Also, the league of cities may consider the resolution at its annual meeting in August. “I’m glad that you’re doing this and I hope to get some clarity in the wording,” Commissioner Carol Soustek said about ADA standards for websites. She said her conversations with city clerk Stacey Johnston, who is working with Revize on the new website, indicate the process is “quite involved and affects many fingers off of your website.” Kihm said ADA compliance for websites has become a “cottage industry for certain individuals who are looking for opportunities to sue cities that aren’t in compliance with the ADA.” “So this is asking the federal government, ‘Come on guys, get your act together and give us some guidelines that everyone can follow, so it’s clear what we need to do, and we’ll be there,’” Kihm said. The next city commission meeting will be at 6 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 27, followed by a work session, at city hall, 5801 Marina Drive.

Visit www.islander.org

July 31, 2019 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 5 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

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Page 6 THE ISLANDER | islander.org July 31, 2019 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Opinion

Our

A killing day

I was enjoying an after-work libation at the High Seas Restaurant. No doubt, Paul Roat and Joe Bird were seated with me. It was happy hour at the Magic Dolphin Lounge. A little after 5 p.m. Aug. 1, 1980, we heard sirens. Lots of them. Had we been on the island and not midway to Bradenton on the Palma Sola Causeway, no doubt Roat would have jumped up, darted to his red VW bus and chased the sirens to the scene. As a reporter/photographer at the former Islander newspaper, he was prone to do just that. We also noted the sirens again, as they headed back to the mainland from the beach. Once we headed to the island, we saw what appeared to be a car crash. A car and trailer with a boat attached were jackknifed next to the entry to Westbay Cove North, just past the Kingfish Boat Ramp. But it wasn’t a crash. It was murder. And much like the days following the disaster at the Sunshine Skyway Bridge earlier in May, everyone you had a conversation with was focused on the incident we now know as the Kingfish murders. In fact, in my calls on Sarasota-Bradenton businesses for a local magazine, I heard plenty of theories and speculation. At lunch with a friend the next week, a Bradenton physician, the conversation naturally turned to the Kingfish murders. Dr. K said his mother and his son were standing in line at Kentucky Fried Chicken on Manatee Avenue West when a man entered and waited behind them. He rode up on a bicycle and they described him as disheveled and dirty. He asked the boy what his father did for a living as he shook his hand — noting his hands were quite dirty. The boy replied that his dad was a doctor, which seemed to aggravate the man. He muttered and shook the boy’s hand harder, prompting the grandmother to wrench the boy’s hand away. Moments later, as the sirens blared from a distance, the man stepped out of line, went outdoors and stared as the emergency vehicles headed toward the hospitals in Bradenton. He then left. My friend had a strong suspicion they’d met the killer after reading the next day’s headlines. They reported the incident, but no more came of it. People still posture about the killer and his reasons, but the case went cold. Very cold. If you have a recollection from that day to share, please, comment on the story at islander.org. — Bonner Joy

JULY 31, 2019 • Vol. 27, No. 40 ▼ ▼

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Publisher and Editor Bonner Joy, news@islander.org Editorial Lisa neff, editor, lisa@islander.org Sandy ambrogi, sandy@islander.org Joe Bird, editorial cartoonist Kevin cassidy, kevin@islander.org cory cole, cory@islander.org Jack elka, jack@jackelka.com chrisann Silver esformes, chrisann@islander.org Brook morrison, brook@islander.org ryan Paice, ryan@islander.org Kathy Prucnell, kathyp@islander.org Contributors Jesse Brisson Karen riley-Love capt. danny Stasny, fish@islander.org Advertising Director toni Lyon, toni@islander.org Office Staff Lisa Williams, manager 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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Kingfish murders the scene at the foodway market in Holmes Beach aug. 1, 1980, was chaotic. customers and staff first assumed there was a car crash in the parking lot, where robert matzke was found slumped over the wheel of his fiat. emergency service providers soon determined he was the victim of a gunshot. islander file Photos good Samaritans who came upon a jack-knifed station wagon on manatee avenue near Westbay cove north rendered aid. they were shocked to find four critical gunshot victims in the vehicle.

emergency workers and good Samaritans render aid to one of the young Kingfish murder victims.

July 31, 2019 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 7 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Word play an unidentified girl studies colorcoded word charts at anna maria elementary School in Holmes Beach. the charts were used for reading instruction. the photo, from the library archives, is not dated.

Back to class at AME families line up outside a door at anna maria elementary School Sept. 4, 1980, to begin a new school year. islander Photos: manatee county Public Library System archives

10&20 years ago In the headlines: July 28, 1999

• Regional transportation planners agreed to fund $270,000 for bicycle lanes along both sides of Gulf Drive in Bradenton Beach. • Holmes Beach commissioners approved expanding the city’s canal commission to manage stormwater improvements and draft a management plan. • Island governments were negotiating with Time Warner Communications to draft franchise contracts for cable and internet services. • Manatee Technical Institute announced plans to teach adult education classes — computer lessons — at Anna Maria Elementary School in the evenings.

In the headlines: July 29, 2009

• The Anna Maria Planning and Zoning Board opposed allowing property owners to expand duplexes to create another bedroom or bathroom. The board also said a property owner should only be allowed to improve a duplex once. • Holmes Beach officials decided to move forward with a request that the Florida Legislature approve the city’s annexation of the Kingfish Boat Ramp, located west of the Anna Maria Island Bridge. • Holmes Beach commissioners considered options for punishing people who put their trash on neighboring properties to avoid paying for waste collection. • A Sarasota man who worked at the Publix Super Market in Holmes Beach died of complications from the H1N1 flu. His was the second such death in the area. — Lisa neff

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Page 8 THE ISLANDER | islander.org July 31, 2019 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Holmes Beach sets maximum millage for 2019-20 budget By chrisann Silver esformes islander reporter

Holmes Beach is a step closer to finalizing its 2019-20 budget. Commissioners voted 4-0 at their meeting July 23 to authorize Mayor Judy Titsworth to sign and submit DR-420 and DR-420 MMP forms to Manatee County — the forms required by the state to assess the city’s tax base. Titsworth and Commissioner Rick Hurst were absent with excuse. According to city treasurer Lori Hill, the mayor proposed establishHill ing a maximum millage rate of 2.25 mills for the 2019-20 fiscal year, the same percentage as 2018-19. Hill, who compiled the budget, said the rate would give the city “time to receive missing revenue from the state and county and evaluate any possible changes until the September public hearings.” She said the mayor intends to use the rollback rate, the millage needed to collect the same tax as the current year from property owners, of 2.1062 mills, “if revenue comes in as intended and no additional costs or projects arise.” The 2.1062 rollback rate would be 6% lower than the 2.25 proposed millage rate. State law defines a tax increase as anything over the rollback rate. Millage is $1 per $1,000 of assessed property value. At 2.25 mills, the ad valorem tax on a property valued at $500,000 would be $1,125. At 2.1062 mills,

Holmes Beach commissioners listen July 23 as city treasurer Lori Hill presents the maximum 2019-20 fiscal year millage rate during a meeting at city hall, 5801 marina drive. islander Photo: chrisann Silver esformes

the property would be taxed $1,053.10. Other taxing authorities on the county property tax bill include the Manatee County School District, the Southwest Florida Water Management District, Manatee County Mosquito Control and the West Coast Inland Navigation District. West Manatee Fire Rescue has assessments on the tax bill, not ad valorem tax. Other sources of city revenue include Swiftmud, WCIND, the county distributed fifth cent gas tax, and the state distributed second, fourth and ninth cent gas taxes, as well as the 1/2 cent discretionary tax. Hill said approval and submission of the DR-420 and DR-420 MMP is the first step in the budget process, which will conclude with an ordinance requiring two public hearings and two votes for adoption before

Holmes Beach reappoints police board members Holmes Beach is ensuring its police pension fund is healthy and well represented. Commissioners agreed July 23 by a unanimous show of hands to reappoint residents Dan Hardy and Sean Murphy as trustees on the police officers’ pension trust fund board. They will serve through April 1, 2021. Hardy is the board chair and both men have served as trustees since 2003. “These two gentlemen have done an admirable job of listening to what’s going on and making deci-

sions for the police pension board,” Commissioner Pat Morton, liaison to the board, said July 23. Commissioners also approved by a vote of 4-0 the first reading of an ordinance allowing police officers with military or law enforcement experience to buy back time if they are not receiving a pension for the prior employment. “It would have no effect, according to our actuary people, on our plan for city funding,” Police Chief Bill Tokajer said. — chrisann Silver esformes

the fiscal year begins Oct. 1. The commission reached consensus that the first reading and public hearing will be at 6 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 11. The final reading and public hearing for the new budget will be at 6 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 24, during a regular city commission meeting at city hall, 5801 Marina Drive.

HB budget: By the numbers

Proposed 2019-20 budget: $15,867,331 2018-19 adopted budget: $15,906,032 Proposed 2019-20 millage rate: 2.25 mills Maximum 2019-20 millage rate: 2.25 mills Rollback rate: 2.1062 mills 2018-19 millage rate: 2.25 mills Tax on a $500,000 property at the rollback rate: $1,053.10 Tax on a $500,000 property at the proposed millage rate: $1,125 Total 2018 assessed property value: $2,089,205,492 Total 2019 assessed property value: $2,101,932,610 First public hearing for the budget: 6 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 11 Final public hearing for the budget: 6 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 24

Anna Maria reveals tentative 2019-20 revenue, tax increase By ryan Paice islander reporter

A tax increase may be in store for Anna Maria. Mayor Dan Murphy presented tentative revenues for the city’s 2019-20 budget at a July 25 meeting, including a proposed 2.05 ad valorem millage rate, which would be a tax increase for property owners. Millage is the percent per $1,000 of property value used to calculate property taxes. The owner of a property appraised at $500,000 with a 2.05 millage rate would pay $1,025 murphy in property taxes. To avoid a tax increase, the city must adopt a roll-

AM Budget: By the numbers

Proposed 2019-20 revenue: $7,228,885.61 Actual 2018-19 revenue: $7,726,437.68 Proposed 2019-20 millage rate: 2.05 mills Maximum 2019-20 rate: Not available Rollback rate: Not available 2018-19 millage rate: 2.05 mills Tax on a $500,000 at the rollback rate: $935.45 Tax on a $500,000 property at the proposed millage rate: $1,025 Total 2018 assessed taxable property value: $1,094,519,801 Total 2019 assessed taxable property value: $1,200,147,787 First public hearing for the budget: TBD Second public hearing for the budget: TBD Editor’s note: Expenditures and hearing dates were not provided.

back rate, the rate needed to produce the same income and spending as the current budget. At Islander press time, that rate was not available. The total taxable value of Anna Maria properties is $1,200,147,787, including $24,860,747 in new taxable construction. With the proposed 2.05 millage, the city would collect $3,000,369 in property taxes, a $754,932 increase over the $2,245,437 collected in 2018-19. Property tax revenue is projected to account for more than 41% of the city’s expected $7,228,885.61 in revenue for 2019-20. Murphy noted the city’s projected revenue is $497,552.07 less than collected in 2018-19 because of one-time funding for the construction of the Anna Maria City Pier, which is set for completion by February 2020. Commissioner Dale Woodland said the same

Find your news in the stacks find the islander dating to november 1992 at the university of florida digital Library newspaper collection at ufdc.ufl.edu.

effect can be expected for the 2020-21 budget, since the 2019-20 budget accounts for $725,000 in funding for the pier’s construction. Of that $725,000, the state will provide $285,000 and the Manatee County Tourist Development Council is expected to provide $435,000. Sissy Quinn, a resident and historical preservationist, also raised $5,000 toward pier construction costs on GoFundMe. The tentative revenues also show a $70,949.19 decrease in stormwater utility revenue. Murphy said the city used $70,000 of reserve funds in 2018-19 for stormwater projects. Murphy said no vote was needed on the tentative numbers at the meeting. He said a date and time for the first public hearing regarding the budget would be set the week of July 29.

Anna Maria extends waste contract negotiations

Anna Maria has another month to pursue a new solid waste contract. City commissioners voted 5-0 July 25 to extend until Aug. 22 negotiations with Waste Management, providing Mayor Dan Murphy time to come to terms with the company on a seven-year contract for solid waste services — trash, lawn waste and recycling removal. Commissioners chose Waste Management’s proposal over a competing bid from Waste Pro in May. The city’s current agreement with Waste Management was set to end in August. So commissioners voted 5-0 to extend the contract for 60 days at the existing rates to avoid a gap in service. — ryan Paice

July 31, 2019 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 9 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Bradenton Beach gives tentative nod to spending increase By ryan Paice islander reporter

Taxes are set to rise for Bradenton Beach property owners. City commissioners voted unanimously July 25 on several motions to approve tentative spending for city departments in the 2019-20 budget, as well as a 1.2% proposed salary increase and a tentative 2.3329 ad valorem millage rate. Commissioner Randy White was absent without excuse. Total expenditures are projected to reach $5,428,848 in the new fiscal year, almost $2 million more than the current $3,555,521 spending plan. Much of the difference is due to $1,347,124 for a flood prevention project — to be funded by the state — which makes up most of the $1,494,825 stormwater capital project. General fund expenditures are projected to increase $253,755, from $3,067,040 this year to $3,320,795 for 2019-20. Expenditures for the Bradenton Beach Police Department are projected at $1,244,377 in 2019-20, an almost $100,000 increase over 2018-19. Police Chief Sam Speciale said the primary reason for the difference is to accommodate hiring a new officer, which resulted in a $70,450 increase in wages for the department. “I think it’s great we’re finally getting another officer,” Mayor John Chappie said. Speciale said the city’s community redevelopment agency could fund half of the cost of the new officer.

Bradenton Beach: By the numbers

Proposed 2019-20 budget: $5,428,848 2018-19 budget: $3,555,521 Proposed 2019-20 millage rate: 2.3329 mills Maximum 2019-20 millage rate: 2.3329 mills Rollback rate: 2.2431 mills 2018-19 millage rate: 2.3329 mills Tax on a $500,000 at the rollback rate: $1,121.55 Tax on a $500,000 property at the proposed millage rate: $1,166.45 Total 2018 assessed taxable property value: $618,638,836 Total 2019 assessed taxable property value: $650,221,930 Tingley Memorial Library Fund: $454,849 First public hearing for the budget: 5:30 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 5, at city hall. Second public hearing for the budget: 5:30 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 19, at city hall.

City clerk Terri Sanclemente, said her administrative department’s expenses are projected to increase by $51,430 from the $603,209 budgeted in 2018-19. She attributed the increase to higher rent for administrative buildings and election fees, as Speciale well as staff members advancing on the longevity scale, earning higher salaries and benefits. She added that the difference also is due to the planned purchase of new equipment, including a laptop, a new computer and microphones for the Katie Pierola Commission Chambers. “It’s important to note that for 75% of the budget we just really don’t have a lot of a say,” Chappie said. “It’s pretty much set in stone if we want to continue operating and providing the basic services that we need to.” In other matters, the commission discussed the budget for the Tingley Memorial Library, 111 Second St. N., which is owned by the city and funded through a private bequeath that is held by the city in the form of certifications of deposits. Proposed library expenditures for 2019-20 are $45,051. The amount is a $4,255 increase over the $40,796 in library expenditures for 2018-19, and includes $2,000 for installation of an automated external defibrillator. City treasurer Shayne Thompson wrote in a July 25 email to The Islander that $454,849 remains in the

library fund. The meeting ended with approval of the tentative millage rate for the new fiscal year. The millage rate is the amount per $1,000 of property value used to calculate property taxes. The owner of a property appraised at $500,000 with a 2.3329 millage rate would pay $1,166.45 in property taxes. The proposed millage amounts to a tax increase for property owners. To avoid a tax increase, the city must adopt a rollback rate of 2.2431, which would yield $1,398,157.96. The rollback rate is the rate needed to produce the same income as the current budget. The owner of a property valued at $500,000 would pay $1,121.55 in property tax at the rollback rate. The total appraised taxable value of Bradenton Beach properties is $650,221,930, with $4,311,124 in new taxable construction. With the proposed 2.3329 ad valorem rate, the city would collect $1,516,902.74 in taxes, a $73,680.20 increase over the $1,443,222.54 collected in 2018-19. “To continuously live within our needs as a community and live off of the increase in the taxable value of property, prices go up every year for everybody,” Chappie said. The first public hearing on the budget is scheduled for 5:30 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 5, at city hall, 107 Gulf Drive N., immediately following a public hearing for the community redevelopment agency at 5:05 p.m. The second public hearing is scheduled for 5:30 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 19, following a CRA hearing at 5:05 p.m. at city hall.

HB police chief clarifies bike lane, street allowances Questions have arisen over what types of vehicles are allowed in bike lanes and the shared roadway in Holmes Beach. At a July 9 work session, commissioners unanimously agreed to direct city attorney Patricia Petruff to write an ordinance amending the land development code to prohibit the rental of electric scooters in the city. tokajer However, the commission and Petruff were unclear on how the prohibition would translate to other motorized vehicles, including electric bikes, hoverboards and Segways. In an interview July 23 with The Islander, Holmes Beach Police Chief Bill Tokajer said any vehicles operating in a bike lane or on a sidewalk must be humanpowered. However, he said some legislative changes from the 2019 session might affect the state regulation, but he needed to research the matter. The chief said that while e-scooters and other motorized vehicles might soon have looser state laws,

the legislative changes also could provide more freedom for municipalities to create tighter regulations. “Just like with golf carts,” Tokajer said. “According to state law, you have to be 14 years old to drive (a golf cart). In Holmes Beach you have to have a licensed driver. So, the state has given us means to create stronger regulations.” When asked about regulating hoverboards and Segways, Tokajer said he did not want them to operate in a bike lane or on the road. “We have narrow enough roads. We have golf carts, bicycles and a trolley,” he said. “We don’t need to add hoverboards and motorized skateboards and everything else. To me, it’s just too much in one area.” When asked if the city plans to prohibit the other motorized vehicles, Tokajer said the city will evaluate what is safest for people and make a determination. “If those other vehicles fall underneath the regulations of a scooter, and state statutes are now allowing us to regulate scooters, then I think we might be able to take some action with that as well,” the chief said. The city plans to hold work sessions, after staff and commissioners review legislative changes for e-scooters from the 2019 session.

those folks down at the 3900-3600 blocks.” During this phase, the contractor will replace damaged stormwater pipes and inlets, install new pipes and inlets in other areas, and dig and fill infiltration trenches connecting systems. Burnett said staging for the project will either be at city field, or at street ends in the areas planned for improvements, including 35th and 36th streets. Burnett said repaving Palm Drive is included in the 2018-19 budget for resurfacing areas where stormwater infiltration is completed. She said the cost includes widening the road to include a 5-foot bike lane on the east side and an asphalt overlay. She said the project will not include widening the west side of Palm Drive until Manatee County works on a water main. She said the existing bike lane on the west side of Palm Drive will remain the same, but with fresh thermoplastic paint and a widened bike lane on the east side, which will be resurfaced with temporary striping. After the asphalt has 30 days to cure, the contractor will add thermoplastic striping for the centerline of the road. The next city commission meeting will be at 6 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 27, at city hall, 5801 Marina Drive.

a low-lying area at 38th Street near fourth avenue in Holmes Beach is flooded July 25 following rain. the city hopes to resolve the problem with the next phase of stormwater improvements. islander Photo: chrisann Silver esformes

By chrisann Silver esformes islander reporter

Stormwater, repaving plans advance in Holmes Beach By chrisann Silver esformes islander reporter

Holmes Beach is heading into the next phase of stormwater drainage and repaving. City commissioners voted 4-0 July 23 for Mayor Judy Titsworth to execute an agreement — not to exceed $60,000 — with contractor Woodruff and Sons Inc., to install the final phase of stormwater infiltration in fiscal year 2018-19. Additionally, commissioners voted 4-0 for a contract with Superior Asphalt Inc. to resurface Palm Drive from 66th Street north to the city limits at 86th Street. The cost is not to exceed $197,000. City engineer Lynn Burnett said “Phase C” of the stormwater infiltration project includes a portion of city field, adjacent to city hall on Marina Drive, where a new skate park and dog park will be installed, as well as the area of Gulf Drive-Avenue E-Fourth Avenue and some cross streets in the area south of the Manatee Public Beach, 4000 Gulf Drive. This is the final phase of stormwater improvements budgeted in partnership with the Southwest Florida Water Management District for fiscal year 2018-19. “It’s a very tough area, with a lot of chronic flooding issues and a lot of chronic complaints,” Burnett said. “So I know it’s some much-needed relief for

Page 10 THE ISLANDER | islander.org July 31, 2019 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

The Islander Calendar

HOW TO RELAX ON AN ISLAND.

Compiled by Lisa Neff, calendar@islander.org

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games, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341. Saturdays, 9 a.m.-12 p.m., pickleball, Center of Anna Maria Island, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria. Fee applies. Information: 941-778-1908. Mondays, AMI Dragon Boat Fun and Fitness Club, time depends on tides, 417 63rd St., Holmes Beach. Information: 941-462-2626. 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. ONGOING OFF AMI

Various dates and times through Aug. 29, Bradenton Marauders baseball games, LECOM ONGOING OFF ANNA MARIA ISLAND Park, 1611 Ninth St. W., Bradenton. Fee applies. Through Aug. 25, Marie Selby Botanical Gardens â&#x20AC;&#x153;In Dialogue Information: 941-747-3031. with Nature: Glass in the Gardensâ&#x20AC;? show, 900 S. Palm Ave., SaraCLUBS & sota. Fee applies. Information: 941-366-5731. COMMUNITY Second and fourth Thursdays, 2-4 p.m., Shanty Singers, Florida Maritime Museum, 4415 119th St. W., ON ANNA MARIA ISLAND Cortez. Information: 941-708-6120. Wednesday, July 31 First Fridays, 6-9 p.m., ArtWalk 2-4 p.m. â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Manatee County Clerk of the Circuit Court Angel in the Village of the Arts, around 12th Colonneso presents a program on the ofďŹ ce and the ofďŹ ce of compStreet West and 12th Avenue West, Bradenton. Also, Saturdays troller, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Informaafter the ďŹ rst Fridays. Information: villageofthearts@gmail.com. tion: 941-778-6341. Second and fourth Saturdays, 1-4 p.m., Music on the Porch, Florida Maritime Museum, 4415 119th St. W., Cortez. Information: Thursday, Aug. 1 2 p.m. â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Sunshine Stitchers Knit and Crochet Club, Island 941-708-6120. Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778Through Sept. 8, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Interpolations: Artwork from the Ringling and 6341. Monda Collections,â&#x20AC;? John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, 5401 Bay Shore Road, Sarasota. Fee applies. Information: 941- 3595700. Through Sept. 29, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Natasha Mazurka: Order Systems,â&#x20AC;? John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, 5401 Bay Shore Road, Sarasota. Through Dec. 31, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Always Readyâ&#x20AC;? U.S. Coast Guard exhibit, Florida Maritime Museum, 4415 119th St. W., Cortez. Information: 941-708-6120.

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First Wednesdays, 10 a.m., Ask A Master Gardener in collaboration with the Manatee County Agriculture and Extension Service, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941778-6341. Thursdays, 9-11 a.m., veterans services assistance, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-7786341. KIDS & FAMILY Third Thursdays, 11:45 a.m., Successful Women Aligning Together meets, Bridge Street Bistro, 111 Gulf ON ANNA MARIA ISLAND Drive S., Bradenton Beach. Fee applies. InformaFriday, Aug. 2 tion: 941-345-5135. 10 a.m. â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Forty Carrots parenting program, Island Library, Second Fridays, 6 p.m., AMI Resident 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. InformaCommunity Connections, Center of Anna Maria tion: 941-778-6341. Island, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria. InformaTuesday, Aug. 6 tion: 941-778-1908. 10 a.m. â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Preschool storytime, Island Tuesdays, noon, Rotary Club of Anna Maria Island, Bridge Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Street Bistro, 111 Gulf Drive S., Bradenton Beach. Information: 941Information: 941-778-6341. 718-0291. Tuesdays, 2-4 p.m., Tech Help, Island Library, 5701 Marina ONGOING OFF AMI Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341. Through Aug. 3, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Summer Circus Spectacularâ&#x20AC;? show, Historic LOOKING AHEAD ON AMI Asolo Theater, 5555 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. Fee applies. Information: 941-351-9010. Aug. 8, SightMobile vision testing, Holmes Beach. Through Sept. 30, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Hippos: A Truly Big Showâ&#x20AC;? poster exhibit, LOOKING AHEAD OFF AMI John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, 5401 Bay Shore Road, Oct. 26, Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquariumâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Oceanic EveSarasota. Fee applies. Information: 941- 359-5700. ning gala, Sarasota. LOOKING AHEAD OFF AMI Oct. 19, Mote Marine Aquariumâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Fish, Fun and Fright night.

GAMES, SPORTS & OUTDOORS ONGOING ON ANNA MARIA ISLAND Wednesdays and Saturdays, 9 a.m., horseshoes pitched, Anna Maria City Hall, 10005 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria. Information: 941-7086130. Wednesdays and Fridays, 9:15 a.m.-10:30 a.m. pickleball, Center of Anna Maria Island, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria. Fee applies. Information: 941-7781908. 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. Most Fridays, 11:30 a.m. or 1 p.m. (call for times) mahjong

GOOD TO KNOW SAVE THE DATES

Sept. 2, Labor Day. Sept. 8, Grandparents Day. Sept. 11, Patriot Day. Sept. 23, ďŹ rst day of autumn. Sept. 29, Rosh Hashana.

Get listed in the calendar

Send announcements for the calendar to calendar@islander.org. The deadline for listings is the Wednesday before the publication date. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re also collecting event notices for the 2019-20 season. Please include dates, times, locations.

Island happenings

July 31, 2019 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 11 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Slice of ‘Chicago’ nancy colcord, left, nancy Luse and diane coates — members of the island-based Senior adventures group — lunch June 28 at fratello’s chicago Pizzeria in Bradenton. the group meets the last friday in the summer for lunch at an area restaurant. for more information, call Kaye Bell at 941-538-0945. islander Photo: Jim grubbs

Cupcakery offers sweet delights for blood donations

Travelers

Cupcake Delights invites the public to join the drive at the Big Red Bus. One Blood’s “Big Red Bus” will be parked noon-5 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 8, outside Cupcake Delights in the Anna Maria Island Centre shopping plaza, 3324 E. Bay Drive, Holmes Beach. Blood donors will receive a cupcake, as well as a wellness checkup that includes cholesterol screening, blood pressure, iron count and pulse reading. For more information about One Blood, call 8889-DONATE or go online to oneblooddonor.org, where appointments may be made using the code 41288.

Island Players auditioning for September show

The Island Players has issued a casting call for the first play of the 71st season — “Steel Magnolias” by Robert Harling, running Sept. 19-25 at the players’ theater, 10009 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria. The audition will be at 7:30 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 4, at the Anna Maria theater, 10009 Gulf Drive. Scripts can be found at the Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. The season also includes: • “Relatively Speaking” by Alan Ayckbourn. The play will run Nov. 7-17, with auditions Sunday, Sept. 22. • “Ripcord” by David Lindsay-Abair. The play will run Jan. 9-26, 2020, with auditions Sunday, Nov. 10. • “Leading Ladies” by Ken Ludwig. The play will run March 5-22, 2020, with auditions Sunday, Jan. 12, 2020. • “Death by Design” by Rob Urbinati. The play will run April 30-May 10, with auditions Sunday, March 8.

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On the castle grounds “cortez camping friends” visit Balmoral castle, an estate in Scotland, June 28. the vacationers — who reside in florida and also spend time together at Holiday cove and Buttonwood rV resorts in cortez — “camped out” on the grounds of the royals’ holiday home to catch up on the islander news. their 10-day trip included golfing in north Berwick and at St. andrews, dining on fish and chips in anstruther and more. islander courtesy Photo

Island Gallery West shows ‘Red Hot Summer’ to benefit AME Island Gallery West will exhibit “Red Hot Summer,” featuring members’ artwork, throughout August. Also, the gallery, 5368 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, will dedicate a portion of sales from the exhibit to art programs at Anna Maria Elementary in Holmes Beach.

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Edward Jones eyes optical wellness

Take a look Aug. 8 outside the Edward Jones office in Holmes Beach. From 9 a.m.-11 a.m. Thursday, Aug. 8, the Eye Associates will park its SightMobile outside the Edward Jones office at the Anna Maria Island Centre, 3226 East Bay Drive, Holmes Beach, to offer free eye exams. The Eye Associates of Bradenton will screen for glaucoma and test distance vision in exams that will take less than five minutes, according to a news release. For more information about the wellness screening, call the Edward Jones office at 941-7792499 or the Eye Associates at 941-792-2020.

5368 Gulf Drive in Holmes Beach

The exhibit will feature 12x12 art pieces interpreting “Red Hot Summer.” A reception, with artists attending, will be 5:307:30 p.m. Friday, Aug. 9. A news release said the reception will be a “chance to meet many of our members while enjoying a refreshing glass of wine and sparkling conversation.” For more information, call IGW at 941-7786648.

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We have Islander coffee mugs! All-cotton AMI shopping totes! Grand More-than-a-mullet-wrapper Opening! T-shirts! And $2 AMI stickers! GET YOURS @ The Islander, 3218 E. Bay Drive, Holmes Beach AMI Chamber of Commerce 2017 Best Business of the Year

full service salon and spa offering… Hair ~ Nails ~ Massage ~ Facials Acupuncture ~ Body Treatments ~ Bikini and Brazilian Waxing ~ need a good laugh? visit the emerson quillin signature store. humor, art, gifts 317 Pine Ave., Anna Maria • www.emersonshumor.com

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Page 12 THE ISLANDER | islander.org July 31, 2019 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Puppetry, ice cream, raffle at library, kid’s summer finale Kate Adams, storyteller and puppeteer with Make Believe Theater of Tampa, performs her Greek mythology shadow-puppet show July 25 during the grand finale of “A Universe of Stories” summer reading program at the Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Islander Photos: ChrisAnn Silver Esformes

About 30 children watch July 25 as storyteller and puppeteer Kate Adams performs a mythological shadow-puppet show during the wrap-up party for the summer reading series at the Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach.

Aiden Esformes, left, and Ozzy Martinez, both 8 and from Bradenton, take a break July 25 during a scavenger hunt at the Island Library, during the grand finale of the library’s summer reading program.

Meghan Woodland, left, mother of Montana, 1, Maverick, 4, and Shyanne, 10, of Anna Maria, poses July 25 with her children and their raffle prizes from the wrap-up of the summer reading program at the Island Library.

Cortez musicians gather, jam Musicians perform “Molly Malone” July 27 during a Music on the Porch event for musicians and followers at the Florida Maritime Museum in Cortez. The free events take place 1-4 p.m. on the second and fourth Saturdays at the museum, 4415 119th St. W., Cortez. Everyone is welcome. Islander Photos: Ryan Paice

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Mike Pierce strums “Wagon Wheel” on his mandolin with other musicians July 27 during a Music on the Porch event at the Florida Maritime Museum in Cortez.

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Capt. Arnold “Soupy” Davis fiddles “Wagon Wheel” with the musicians gathered July 27 for Music on the Porch event in Cortez.

July 31, 2019 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 13 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Skate park, preserve plans updated in Holmes Beach

a wetlands marsh along Sarasota Bay near 28th Street and avenue a in Holmes Beach could be dedicated as a nature preserve. islander file Photo: chrisann Silver esformes

By chrisann Silver esformes islander reporter

Holmes Beach is working on beautifying the city and enhancing community. City engineer Lynn Burnett updated the commission July 23 on plans for a new skate park at city field. She also presented information on negotiations for a possible preserve, to be named Hames Preserve after the family donating the land, adjacent to Grassy Point Preserve, an upland-wetland preserve at the north end of Avenue C near 30th Street. Skate park planning Burnett briefed the commission on the construction documents for the skate park. “This is really just to keep you in the loop,” she said. “They will be back with a more-detailed presentation.” Burnett asked commissioners to review the documents and email her with any questions so skate park contractor American Ramp Co. could address concerns at the next commission meeting at 6 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 27, at city hall, 5801 Marina Drive. She said the design-deliverables contract was executed, so she is making sure ARC is meeting the contract requirements. Soustek said she didn’t see anything in the plans about a vegetative barrier between the park and the sidewalk along Marina Drive. Burnett said the city will plant the barrier after other improvements to city field are completed. At the July 9 city commission meeting, Tito Porrata, lead designer for ARC, presented conceptual renderings for the park, approved in February to replace the defunct skate park in the recreational complex at city field, adjacent to city hall. The project should be completed in March 2020.

Roadwatch

a rendering shows an updated skate park for the recreational complex adjacent to Holmes Beach city Hall. islander Photo: courtesy Holmes Beach

Hames Preserve proposal Commission Chair Jim Kihm asked Burnett for an update on the possible donation of a portion of a 26-acre parcel of wetlands south of Grassy Point Preserve, east of the 29th and 30th street-ends along the bayfront, by Nora Scholin, executer of the Hames family estate. In exchange for the land, Scholin asked the city to

Eyes on the road

The Florida Department of Transportation and Manatee County posted the following for the week of July 29: • Longboat Pass Bridge: Major repairs on the Longboat Pass Bridge on Gulf Drive between Bradenton Beach and Longboat Key take place through the summer. Overnight work requires decreasing lane sizes, flagging operations and occasional lane closures. Work will end in September. • State Road 684/Cortez Road: Crews are installing new lighting at various locations along State Road 684/Cortez Road from Gulf Drive in Bradenton Beach to Ninth Street West in Bradenton. Expect nighttime/overnight lane closures. PowerCore Inc. is the contractor. For the latest road watch information, go online to fl511.com and swflroads.com or dial 511. To view traffic conditions, go online to smarttrafficinfo.org.

install a 200-foot pervious access drive on a right of way adjacent to the area of the parcel with the highest elevation, a 150-by-150-foot lot, which could allow for a single-family residence. Burnett said she met in July with representatives from Scheda, the environmental consultants that surveyed adjacent Grassy Point, as well as walked the upland portions of the property to determine what could be done to protect the land from flooding. She said Scheda would provide the city with concept plans in August, including ways to reinforce the property with vegetative barriers. Jurisdictional locations of the upland portion of the property were to be completed by the end of July. Then a map would be sent to the Hames family and the city for legal review, Burnett said. Commissioner Carol Soustek, who visited the property, said she’s unclear on the parameters of the exchange between the city and the Hames family. “It’s very hard to conceive lots being built there, to be honest with you,” Soustek said. “I know that is an upland area, and it’s going to be a beautiful building site. I’m just not clear on how much the city is giving in exchange for these beautiful acres we’re getting.” Burnett said the matter would come back to the commission at its Aug. 27 meeting.

Meet center fundraiser Jim mcdaniel, new to the center of anna maria island in may and hired as development director, introduces himself July 26 at a center donor party at the Waterline marina resort and Beach club in Holmes Beach. islander Photo: ryan Paice

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Page 14 THE ISLANDER | islander.org July 31, 2019 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Holmes Beach man arrested for DUI, fraud after traffic stop

By Kathy Prucnell

Island police reports

Anna Maria July 16, 300 block of Magnolia Avenue, battery. A 23-year-old man on vacation argued with his wife. He forcibly removed the car keys from the woman and took her cellphone. Family members witnessed the couple fighting and attempted to separate the man and the woman. All parties declined medical attention. The man was arrested for battery by a Manatee County sheriff’s deputy and transported to the county jail. Anna Maria is policed by Manatee County Sheriff’s Ofﬁce. Bradenton Beach July 19, Bradenton Beach City Hall, 107 Gulf Drive N., trespass. Bradenton Beach police found a 33-year-old man sleeping next to the building and warned him for trespassing. He left the area. July 21, Gulf Drive Cafe, 900 Gulf Drive N., battery. A fight broke out between four men at the bar. According to one man, he was jumped by three men. Another man said he and another man argued about a song and that man struck him in the back of the head. Several witnesses told different stories about the fight. Emergency services treated the injuries. One man signed a waiver of prosecution. No one wanted to press charges. The men left. July 21, 100 block of Bridge Street and the beach, disorderly intoxication. Beachgoers reported a man drinking and littering on the beach. Police found pizza boxes, cans, bottles, clothes and chairs near a man who was asleep with a beer in his hand. After officers woke him up, police arrested him due to his unsteady demeanor. July 21, 100 block of Fourth Street South, drugs. A police officer stopped a vehicle for a seize-tag order. The female driver said she had no insurance and showed the officer 17.5 grams of marijuana, saying her boyfriend left it in the vehicle. The officer issued

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Burnes attempted the roadside test, almost falling several times during the exercises, and an officer lunged to catch the man, according to the report. Police took Burnes to the HBPD station, where he refused to submit to a blood-alcohol breath test and later fell asleep and onto the floor. He suffered abrasions to his face from the fall, the police report states. Also at the station, police found Burnes possessed identification for himself and his brother and, after Miranda warnings, Burnes acknowledged his true identity. He told police he’d been drinking at D.Coy Ducks Bar & Grill to celebrate his brother’s birthday. He was transported to the Manatee County jail, posted a $1,740 bond and was released. His arraignment is at 8:30 a.m. Monday, Aug. 12, at the Manatee County Judicial Center, 1051 Manatee Ave., W., Bradenton. — Kathy Prucnell

Erratic driving leads HBPD to arrest Parrish man for DUI An erratic driver on Manatee Avenue was arrested by Holmes Beach police for driving under the influence. Michael Sargent, 32, of Parrish, was arrested after Officer Alex Hurt observed his Ford pickup truck fail to stop at the flashing red light at Gulf Drive and Manatee Avenue, travel east on Manatee in the westbound Sargent lane, drift across the lanes and, at one point, drive onto the grass. Sargent refused to submit to roadside tests, telling police he watches cop shows and believed it would not

be in his best interest. Taking inventory of the truck before the tow, police found half-empty bottles of Crown Royal and Fireball whiskey. At the HBPD station, Sargent refused to provide a breath sample and told police he should have stayed on Anna Maria Island, where his family offered him a place to sleep. He was transported to the Manatee County jail, posted a $120 bond and was released. His arraignment is at 8:25 a.m. Thursday, Aug. 15, at the Manatee County Judicial Center, 1051 Manatee Ave., W., Bradenton. — Kathy Prucnell

the woman a notice to appear in court and confiscated the tag and drugs. Bradenton Beach is policed by BBPD. Cortez No reports. Cortez is policed by MCSO. Holmes Beach July 17, Anna Maria Island Beach Cafe, 4000 Gulf Drive, trespass. Holmes Beach police assisted a manager with a trespass warning after he called 911 about a man taking a cafe chair onto the beach. The manager said he repeatedly told the man not to take the chair.

The man left the property. July 18, 100 block of 52nd Street, water. A resident reported flooding at a city park and several properties due to a pool being drained. HBPD responded and code enforcement suggested the police officers unplug the pumps. The plugs were burnt and melted. Frank Agnelli of Agnelli Pools arrived on the scene and told officers the pumps had to function to remove the water or the pool walls would cave in and possibly damage the house. Agnelli agreed a melted plug should not be used. He told police another outlet would be used for PLeaSe See sTreeTLIFe, neXt Page

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A golf cart driver pulled over for traffic violations in Holmes Beach was arrested for fraud and driving under the influence. Richard J. Burnes Jr., 59, of Holmes Beach, was arrested July 9 for DUI, giving a false identification to a Holmes Beach police officer, knowingly driving on a suspended license and unlawfully possessing another person’s identification. Burnes HBPD Officer Alan Desantis stopped Burnes in the 200 block of 68th Street and called for backup, suspecting the driver was under the influence. Officer Alex Hurt responded, approached the driver, noticed a cold beer next to the driver and the odor of an alcoholic beverage, according to a police report. The report also states the driver falsely identified himself as his brother.

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sTreeTLIFe continued from Page 14

the pump for 12 hours, after which his workers would finish the walls. July 18, 500 block of 67th Street, noise. A noise citation was issued to an owner after a neighbor called HBPD three times 9:56-10:10 p.m. about loud music. When police arrived, they took noise meter readings of 44-65 decibels. Daytime noise is restricted to 65 decibels. After 10 p.m., there is a 50-decibel limit. The owner told police she was celebrating her husbandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s birthday with friends, new to the neighborhood and unaware of the noise ordinance. July 19, 5100 block of Gulf Drive, alcohol. While on patrol, a police officer pulled over an SUV for speeding and issued the 20-year-old driver an alcohol violation. Eleven cartridges of THC wax and a drug pipe were seized. The vehicle was towed. July 19, 7100 block of Gulf Drive, vehicle burglary. Fishing equipment valued at $7,340 was stolen from a Jeep Cherokee overnight. There was no evidence of forced entry and the back hatch was found open. July 20, 100 block of 67th Street and the beach, grill. Holmes Beach police ticketed a woman from New York who was sitting under a canopy with a lit outdoor grill. The woman advised she was unaware of the ordinance. The officer directed her husband to a sign at the beach access. July 22, 100 block of 50th Street, noise. Officers responded to a noise complaint at 10:17 p.m. and found children laughing, yelling and singing. Officers took

Memories: Meeting a moonwalker Bradenton Beach Police chief Sam Speciale shows his photo from a meeting with neil armstrong at oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Hare international airport in chicago following the historic moonwalk July 20, 1969. islander Photos: Kathy Prucnell a Bradenton Herald photo documents the anniversary of the lunar landing and shows BBPd chief Sam Speciale at 12 greeting neil armstrong in chicago.

meter readings between 50-65 decibels. Police cited the renter for the noise violation. The renter apologized. Holmes Beach is policed by Holmes Beach Police Department. Streetlife is based on incident reports and narratives from the BBPD, HBPD and MCSO.

Island watch

In the event of an emergency, call 911. To report information on island crime, call the MCSO Anna Maria substation, 941-708-8899; Bradenton Beach police, 941-778-6311; or Holmes Beach police, 941-708-5804.

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Page 16 THE ISLANDER | islander.org July 31, 2019 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

YEARS AGO

emergency personnel respond aug. 1, 1980, in Holmes Beach, where four people were fatally shot and one person was injured. the case remains unsolved. islander Photo: collection of June alder

39 Killing spree at Kingfish

YEARS AGO

For an island reporter, the story unfolded, but the mystery remained Editor’s note: The Islander ﬁrst published the following report in 1999. June Alder then worked as a copy editor for The Islander and also wrote a history column. The Islander edited this report for style, length and historical perspective. By June alder from the islander archive

You know how it is in the dog days of August. Not much to do. Putter around the yard in the morning. Have a nap after lunch. Watch the sunset after supper. Watch re-runs on TV with the air conditioner humming. No, nothing much happens on the island in the summertime. It’s murder for a newspaper reporter trying to make a decent story out of notes from a boring city meeting. But it wasn’t that way Aug. 1, 1980. As I recall that Friday, I was the only reporter in The Islander newspaper office when someone yelled at me to pick up my phone. It was my mother calling. “Oh, hi Mom, what’s up?” I said, or something like that. She rarely called me at the office, so I figured she had some little problem, like when we could meet for lunch. But her voice was odd, whispery but urgent. “I’m down here at Foodway (now the Publix Super Market). There’s been an accident or something — a man’s been hurt.” There was a hubbub in the background. I could barely hear her. “What did you say? An accident? In the grocery store?” She seemed impatient, and I got the idea whatever had happened, it was something serious. “No, in the parking lot. I was at the checkout counter. A woman burst in, yelling to call the police, get a doctor.” She paused. “I can see a lot of folks running around outside. You’d better get down here, June!” I grabbed my camera and jumped in my car. Traffic on Gulf Drive was light going south. It took me less than five minutes to round the bend at the Manatee Public Beach. That’s when I saw a bunch of people milling around just east of the stoplight

toward Kingfish Boat Ramp. I wondered if I should drive on to the grocery, but then I saw a car and boat trailer jackknifed near a power pole. There had been an accident and, from the looks of things, it was a bad one. I parked my car on the side of the road and raced over to a scene of chaos. I didn’t ask any questions, just began taking photographs. There seemed to be bodies all over the place. Sheets had been draped over two figures being lifted onto stretchers. They appeared to be children. I couldn’t tell if they were dead or alive. A few feet away from the car, medics were bent over a man on the ground. One emergency technician was holding an oxygen mask to the man’s mouth. Another was wiping blood from the patient’s forehead. A third was massaging his chest.

Close by lay a deeply tanned man in red-andwhite striped trunks. He was barely breathing. His bare chest was streaked with blood trickling from his nose and mouth. A tube had been stuck in his right arm. I could tell by the look on the face of a woman in a nurse’s uniform holding his head that he was close to death. I moved in a bit closer with my camera. Through the viewfinder, I could see a small hole — about the size of a dime — in the man’s forehead. My heart froze. The man had been shot in the head. By now, another reporter from my newspaper had arrived, as well as reporters and photographers from the daily papers. And there must have been 40 people scurrying around. I’ll never forget the faces of the bystanders as the word got around of the nature of the tragedy. They had the look of people confronting a situation too horrible to comprehend. The car had gone out of control because the driver had a bullet in his head. Everyone in the car had been shot. I glanced across the street toward the Foodway. An ambulance was pulling out of the lot. I hurried over. I learned from a cop that a man had been shot there, too. By now, like everyone else, I was beginning to realize the enormity of the crime that had shattered the pleasant afternoon. The headlines in the newspapers the next day shocked islanders out of their summer lethargy.

emergency personnel place a man on a stretcher near the Kingfish Boat ramp and treat another person at foodway aug. 1, 1980. the murders remain unsolved. manatee county crime Stoppers takes tips at 866-634-tiPS. islander Photos: manatee county Public Library System

July 31, 2019 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 17 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

“i saw a car and boat trailer jackknifed near a power pole,” reporter June alder wrote about her arrival to the scene of a quadruple murder aug. 1, 1980, on manatee avenue at east Bay drive in Holmes Beach. islander Photo: manatee county Public Library System

a fiat that had been driven by robert matzke crashed into another vehicle at foodway. Bystanders thought an accident had occurred, but matzke, an air force veteran, had unknowingly confronted a killer and was fatally shot. islander Photo: manatee county Public Library System

‘The headlines the next day shocked islanders out of their summer lethargy.’ In the weeks and months to come, the story unfolded, but the mystery remained.

The killing at Kingfish Early Aug. 1, 1980, Juan Dumois, a 47-year-old Tampa physician, his sons Eric, 13, and Mark, 9, and their uncle, Raymond Barrows, visiting from Miami, left Kingfish Boat Ramp for a fishing trip in the Gulf of Mexico. It was the last day of the family’s vacation in Holmes Beach. Returning about 5 p.m., looking forward to getting home to supper, they loaded their boat onto a trailer and hitched it up to their station wagon. Dumois and Barrows got into the front seat, and the boys took seats in the back. Just as Dumois was about to drive off, a dark-haired man in his middle 30s, wearing a white tennis outfit and pushing a bike, stuck his head in the car window. He had sprained his ankle, he told Dumois and would appreciate a lift. Sure, no problem, Dumois said. The man hoisted his bike into the boat and got into the back with the boys. Dumois waited for a gap in the heavy traffic, then pulled away. The station wagon had gone only a few yards toward the intersection of Manatee Avenue and East Bay Drive when the man pulled a gun. He held the muzzle against the back of Dumois’ head and pulled the trigger. Dumois slumped over, mortally wounded. Three more shots gunman? rang out in quick succession. The gunman had pumped the second bullet into Barrow’s head and the third and fourth into the heads of the boys. The man reached over Dumois and turned off the ignition, steering the car to the side of the road. When it stopped, he jumped out, pulled his bike out of the boat and rode off toward Foodway. But there was a witness. Retired Air Force Lt. Col. Robert Matzke, working in the yard of his condominium unit in Westbay Cove North, had observed the man’s exit from the accident site. Suspicious, he pursued him to the Foodway store in his sports car. There, while still in his car, he argued briefly with the bicyclist. Again, a shot rang out, and Matzke became the hitchhiker’s fifth victim. Shoppers watched unknowingly as the gunman got into a waiting car, which disappeared into traffic. None of the onlookers had witnessed the killing. They thought Matzke had crashed his car. All the police had to go on was what Raymond Barrows was able to tell them. He had recovered, but died of a heart attack a couple of years later. The investigation, involving the sheriff’s office and federal agents, as well as the Holmes Beach police, dragged on for months. Dumois’ car was examined for fingerprints. Four artist’s concepts of the killer were circulated and a reward was offered. More than 100 suspects were questioned, but no solid evidence pointing to the killer was found and no plausible motive for the slayings identified. Was the killer a madman? Someone with a grudge against the physi-

cian? Was he a contract killer? Were the murders mob or mafia related? Though police found nothing to connect Dumois with the underworld, the massacre had all the earmarks of a hit job. The weapon was a 22-caliber pistol, the type of gun often used in professional killings. The killer was an expert with a gun. He did not fire wildly. He shot to kill. The crime was well planned. The gunman was seen loitering in the boat ramp parking lot. He had marked his victims. He knew Dumois was a doctor, as he feigned an injury. He chose a crowded area for the shootings, where he could melt into the crowd. True, it was risky business to execute his mission in a moving car, but he knew it would be going slowly, approaching the intersection only a short distance away from the boat ramp. He had a confederate waiting in a getaway car

at a spot where they could easily join the traffic going north or south. Police were criticized for immediately directing traffic off the island and failing to cordon off the crime scene quickly. But they didn’t know at first that it was a murder case. Perfect crime? The Kingfish killings appear to have been the perfect crime — one that will never be solved. Investigators say that in such crimes, the only chance for a solution is when someone talks — someone to whom the killer bragged or who was involved somehow in the crime. But that hasn’t happened. Perhaps the killer, well paid for his afternoon’s work, is living on his earnings on the French Riviera or in South America. Or, he may have met a violent death, too. Will we ever know his identity or the reason for the massacre on that bloody Friday? a Bradenton Beach police officer and good Samaritans attend the victim of a shooting aug. 1, 1980, in Holmes Beach at the foodway grocery store, now the Publix Super market. islander Photo: manatee county Public Library System

Cold case evidence Holmes Beach detective Sgt. Brian Hall shows an evidence bag, above, July 11 containing a 22-caliber bullet gathered aug. 1, 1980, from the scene of four murders. rigHt: Hall reviews evidence with the islander July 11 from the aug. 1, 1980, shooting of dr. Juan dumois, his two sons and dumois’ brother-in-law, raymond Barrows, who survived the shooting, but died two years later. also killed, retired Lt. col. robert matzke, who confronted the gunman. the evidence is stored at the HBPd, 5801 marina drive. islander Photos: Kathy Prucnell

Page 18 THE ISLANDER | islander.org July 31, 2019 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Gathering

Obituaries

Roser to feature special music

Roser Memorial Community Church will host a guest vocalist during its worship services Aug. 4. Julia Ann (Clark) Lee Sadie Albert, a 2017 graduate from the Manatee Julia Ann (Clark) Lee, 65, of Bradenton and forSchool for the Arts, will sing at the 8:30 a.m. service in the chapel and merly of Anna Maria Island, died July 16. Known as Annie, she was born the 10 a.m. service in the sanctuary, April 24, 1954, in Tampa, to Iris Rita 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Sosa and Bernard H. Clark. Albert, a biochemistry student at The family moved to Anna Maria Palm Beach Atlantic University, led Island in 1967 and settled in Holmes the music program at Roser’s vacaalbert ‘Game Night’ set at Beach on grandfather Peter Sosa’s tion Bible school earlier in June. CrossPointe Fellowship homestead — beach-to-bay property Also, the Rev. Dr. Bob O’Keef will deliver a Lee that went south from Manatee Avenue CrossPointe Fellowship will host “Game Night for sermon in his “The Parables” series. For more information, call the church office at to the intersection of East Bay and “old” Gulf Drive. Widows/Widowers” at 5:30 p.m. Friday, Aug. 2, in the She attended Manatee High School. 941-778-0414. fellowship hall. She was a woman of hidden talents that only those Also, the church will host a trivia night at 6:30 p.m. Friday, Aug. 23. A notice on the website at cros- Women’s guild booking winter close to her really knew. She loved her family and she loved to sing — and she had a beautiful voice. She will spointefellowship.church stated everyone is invited. cruise from Fort Lauderdale be remembered and missed by all who knew her. The church is at 8605 Gulf Drive, Holmes There are no services planned. The St. Bernard Catholic Church Women’s Guild Beach. She is survived by her husband of 19 years, James is encouraging reservations for an 11-day cruise aboard For more information, call 941-778-0719. “Wyre” Lee of Cortez; sister-in-law Sandy Zell; brotha Holland America ship. The cruise will depart from Fort Lauderdale ers Chris, Mike and Alex; and her beloved pets. Wednesday, Jan. 15, 2020, and return Sunday, Jan. WORSHIP 26. Margaret Virginia Monday-Friday Ports of call include Bahamas, Aruba, Curacao, Fulford Pippin 8:30 a.m. — St. Bernard Catholic Church, 248 S. Harbor Drive, Cartagena, Panama and Costa Rica. Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-4769. Margaret Virginia Fulford Pippin, 77, died June Rates range $1,944-$2,734. Thursday Bus travel from St. Bernard, 248 S. Harbor Drive, 17, at her home in Jacksonville, Texas. 9:30 a.m. — Episcopal Church of the Annunciation, 4408 Gulf Holmes Beach, would cost extra. She was born in 1942 in Cortez Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-1638. to Eugene Vernon and Sarah Louise A $600 deposit will hold a cabin. Saturday Mora Fulford. The Fulford and Mora For more information, call Travel Now at 941-7984 p.m. — St. Bernard Church, Holmes Beach. families were both early settlers of 9272. 5 p.m. — Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, 6608 Marina Drive, Cortez and have a rich history in the 9 a.m. — Men’s Bible study, Christ Church. Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-1813. area. 10 a.m. — Women’s Bible study, Christ Church. Sunday After graduating from ManaPippin 10 a.m. — Tai chi exercise, Gloria Dei. 8:30 a.m. and 10 a.m. — Christ Church of Longboat Key Prestee High School in Bradenton, Mrs. 11 a.m. — JOY group, second and fourth Wednesdays, Pippin served in the military and then worked for the byterian (USA), 6400 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key. InformaRoser. tion: 941-383-8833. USDA Farm Service Agency until retirement. 11:30 a.m. — Prayer partners, Gloria Dei. 8:30 a.m. and 10 a.m. — Roser Memorial Community Church, She married Jimmie Pippin in 1966, and they lived 7 p.m. — Bible study, Cortez Church of Christ. 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Information: 941-778-0414. in Texas until his death in 2010. 9:30 a.m. — Harvey Memorial Community Church, 300 Church Thursday She was buried beside her husband in Meadow 9:30 a.m. — Roser-robics, Roser. Ave., Bradenton Beach. Information: 941-779-1912. Cemetery in Jacksonville, Texas. 10 a.m. — Women’s Bible study, Gloria Dei. 8:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. — St. Bernard, Holmes Beach. Survivors include her niece and nephew, Heather 10 a.m. — Bible study, Harvey Church. 9 a.m. — CrossPointe Fellowship, 8665 Gulf Drive, Holmes Fulford and Clyde Augustine Fulford Jr. of Bradenton; Saturday Beach. Information: 941-778-0719. step-children Stacy and Tammy Pippin of Texas; many 3 p.m. — Confession, St. Bernard. 9 a.m. — Church of the Annunciation, Holmes Beach. cousins in Manatee County; and good friends in Texas Sunday 9:30 a.m. — Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, Holmes Beach. and Florida.

Church happenings

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. ONGOING EVENTS Wednesday 7 a.m. — Men’s Bible study, CrossPointe. 8 a.m. — Men’s breakfast, Church of the Annunciation.

8:45 a.m. — Adult Sunday school, Roser. 9 a.m. — Adult book study, Roser. 10:15 a.m. — Fellowship, Gloria Dei. 10 a.m. — Bible study, Cortez Church of Christ. 10:30 a.m. — Life group, CrossPointe. Tuesday 9:30 a.m. — Women’s prayer, CrossPointe. 9:30 a.m. — Roser-robics, Roser. Send notices to news@islander.org.

At your service

Obituaries are offered as a community service in The Islander newspaper to residents and family of residents, both past and present, as well as to those people with ties to the island. Submit to news@ islander.org. Islander obituaries are free, including a photo and posting on the website. Paid obituaries can be discussed with advertising consultant Toni Lyon. Call The Islander at 941-778-7978.

Visit www.islander.org for the best news on AMI.

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Seasons Greetings ! from Bridge Street anna maria island Privateers Jamie Van deusen, melissa gunther, russell thogode, roger “Hoodat” murphree, maryann “maz” Zyla and Shelly “fireball” Hill gather July 27 to celebrate christmas in July at the drift in on Bridge Street.

Privateer Jennifer “mermaid” Price offers prizes from a lotto board at the christmas in July celebration at the Bridge Street drift in.

ronald “candyman” fisher, left, and former Privateer President roger “Hoodat” murphree, right, celebrate christmas in July with Santa claus at the drift in in Bradenton Beach.

Coast Guard Cortez assists boaters in Gulf

Santa arrives July 27 by sleigh to Bridge Street in Bradenton Beach to celebrate christmas in July with a young admirer and bags of treats for all the kids. the local band of pirates — the anna maria island Privateers — host the annual christmas in July party and community supper at the drift in lounge, 120 Bridge St., Bradenton Beach. islander courtesy Photos/ami Privateer gina Wade “Anna Maria Island,” a pictorial history book of the island by Bonner Joy, is available for $20 at the islander office, 3218 e. Bay drive, Holmes Beach. Joy is publisher of the islander newspaper. She came to ami in 1975 and launched the newspaper in 1992.

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A U.S. Coast Guard crew saved the day for four boaters from Ellenton with a damaged hull in the Gulf of Mexico west of Bean Point. The men were on a 21-foot vessel about 12 miles west of Anna Maria Island at 2:36 p.m. July 28, when the center console boat began to rapidly take on water, according to U.S. Coast Guard-Tampa Bay detachment public information officer David Micallef. “Apparently, they had a damaged hull,” he added, but also said he did not know how the damage to the vessel occurred. Rescuers transferred three of the men onto the Coast Guard’s 29-foot rescue boat, and assisted by pumping the water out of the hull as the captain maintained speed on the damaged boat. “These mariners did everything right,” said Coast Guard Petty Officer 2nd Class Jacob Lettington, the coxswain and captain of the rescue boat. Lettington said the boaters called in their location and problem “immediately.” He also complimented

u.S. coast guard Station cortez rescuers pump water from a damaged boat July 28. islander Photo: courtesy uScg

them for having a radio and life jackets onboard. The boaters returned to Bradenton Beach. No injuries were reported. — Kathy Prucnell

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Page 20 THE ISLANDER | islander.org July 31, 2019 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Anna Maria Elementary earns ‘A’ grade from state for 2019 Anna Maria Elementary received its report card in mid-July from the Florida Department of Education. AME moved up a grade, from a B in 2017-18 to an A in 2018-19, according to a news release from the School District of Manatee County. For the years before 2017-18, AME mostly earned As. “Our students and staff have done a tremendous job this past year,” AME principal Jackie Featherston wrote July 23 in an email to The Islander. “I could not be prouder to serve as the principal. We are all looking forward to another great school year.” The state education department issued Florida School Accountability Grades for public schools throughout the state, including 59 schools in the Manatee district. In the district, 57 schools received either an A, B or C for 2018-19. And, for the third consecutive year, no school in the district received an F. Sixteen district schools improved their grades over the 2017-18 school year, including AME and three others — Samoset and Blackburn elementary and Rowlett Academy improved by two grades. The school district received a B grade for the third consecutive year.

“The grades released … are a gratifying reward for all of the hard work performed by our students, teachers, school administrators and support staff,” Cynthia Saunders, the district superintendent, stated in the release. “We are clearly moving in a positive direction and this would not be possible without the overwhelming support of our school board and our community.” The state education department grades schools so educators, parents and others in a community can measure the performance of an institution and understand how well each school is serving its students. State grades are based on up to 11 components, including achievement in language arts, mathematics, science and social studies, performance on standardized assessment tests and gains in learning. “Now we are getting ready for the teacher and student return and the excitement of another great school year,” Featherston said of the 2019-20 school year. Classes for students will begin Monday, Aug. 12. Teachers will return to the school Monday, Aug. 5. Also, AME will host a back-to-school night Thursday, Aug. 8. — Lisa neff

Back-to-school calendar

• Thursday, Aug. 1, classroom assignments. • Monday, Aug. 5, teachers return. • Thursday, Aug. 8, 4:30-5:15 p.m., Backto-School Night, kindergarten, first- and secondgrades. • Thursday, Aug. 8, 5:15-6 p.m., Back-toSchool Night, third-, fourth- and fifth-grades. • Monday, Aug. 12, first day of school. • Monday, Sept. 2, Labor Day, no school. • Wednesday, Sept. 11, early release. Anna Maria Elementary is at 4700 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. For more information, call the school at 941-708-5525.

Back-to-School Night set

Before the first bell

Anna Maria Elementary will host 2019-20 students and their families for Back-to-School Night Thursday, Aug. 8. The night will be in two sessions, based on grade levels, according to AME principal Jackie Featherston. Kindergartners and students in the first- and second-grades will visit AME with their families at 4:30 p.m. The second session, for students in third-fifth grades, will begin at 5:15 p.m. Families should arrive to the front office, check in and proceed to the student’s classroom. AME is at 4700 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach.

Parents and students enter the lobby of anna maria elementary School for the 2018-19 Back-to-School night. the evening allowed students and their families to meet teachers, get to know their classrooms and get first-hand instructions and advice on the year ahead. islander file Photo: ryan Paice

Did you know? School hours for 2019-20 are 8:25 a.m.-3:15 p.m. daily. For students eating breakfast at the school, the cafeteria will open at 7:55 a.m.

Center of Anna Maria Island readies after-school program for Aug. 12 launch As children ready to go back to school, the Center Center staff will pick up registered children from of Anna Maria Island readies for after school. Anna Maria Elementary at the end of the school day The center, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria, will and transport children to the center. launch the Beyond the Classroom after-school proHours will be from school dismissal until 6 p.m. gram Monday, Aug. 12, which is the first day of public The center will provide snacks, as well as assist school for 2019-20. children with homework. The program is for children ages 5-12 years. The center also will offer day camps on certain

State suspends sales tax for school supplies The first holiday of the 2019-20 school year comes before classes begin. Florida’s Back-to-School Sales Tax Holiday begins Friday, Aug. 2, and continues through Tuesday, Aug. 6. The state has estimated consumers will save $41.7 million during the five-day back-to-school tax holiday. Eligible items include: • Clothing selling for $60 or less per item; • Footwear selling for $60 or less; • Fashion accessories selling for $60 or less, including hats, belts, ties and handbags;

• School supply items selling for $15 or less, including paper, pencils, crayons and erasers; • Personal computers selling for $1,000 or less, including laptop computers and tablets. • Computer accessories selling for $1,000 or less, including cables, data storage and printers. Links to supply lists for AME students can be found online at www.manateeschools.net/annamaria.

school holidays throughout the year. Weekly fees for Beyond the Classroom include two days for $40, three days for $60, and four-five days for $80, with a discount offered to center family members. For more information, contact the center, at 941778-1908.

Health department offers free immunizations

The Florida Department of Health in Manatee County offers free childhood immunizations 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Monday-Friday. The health department says the goal of the immunization program is to prevent the spread of vaccine-preventable diseases, including measles, mumps and other serious diseases. Immunizations offered by appointment at the health department, 410 Sixth Ave. E., Bradenton, include those required to enroll in school or attend a child care. In Florida, public school students need a current Florida Certificate of Immunization form. An exception is when guardians exclude a student if immunizations are in conflict with religious tenets or other beliefs. A medical exemption form issued by the county health department would need to be submitted to the school registrar. For more information, call the health department at 941-748-0747 or go online to manatee. floridahealth.gov. — Lisa neff

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Holmes Beach appoints parks committee members, planners By chrisann Silver esformes islander reporter

The Holmes Beach Parks and Beautification Committee as well as the planning commission are undergoing some membership changes. City commissioners July 23 appointed Dana Krupa to the planning commission to fill the seat vacated by former Chair Charles Stealey. The term expires July 1, 2020. Krupa will be a regular member, along with four appointed members and two alternates. Commissioners voted by ballot on a list of people who applied for a seat on the planning commission. City clerk Stacey Johnston polled commissioners on applicants, including Lance Collins, Renee Fergu-

son, Kevin Kollock, Dana Krupa and Peter Nulty. Krupa received the most votes. Mayor Judy Titsworth and Commissioner Rick Hurst were absent with excuse. Commissioners also accepted the mayor’s recommendation for appointments to the parks committee. In a memo, Titsworth recommended Mary Lange fill the vacancy created when Zan Fuller, who served as chair, resigned in May. Fuller’s term expires Aug. 1, 2020. Additionally, Titsworth recommended:

• Reappointing Susan Anderson and Allyson Gilles to two-year terms, both expiring Aug. 1, 2021; • Appointing Carol Hatz to fill the first alternate position, also expiring Aug. 1, 2021; • Appointing Donna Ryan to fill the second alternate position, which expires Aug. 1, 2020. The planning commission will meet at 6 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 7, at city hall, 5801 Marina Drive. The parks and beautification committee is on summer break and will reconvene at 10 a.m. Wednesday, Oct. 2, at city hall. Holmes Beach commission chair Jim Kihm, left, accepts ballots July 23 from commissioners Pat morton, carol Soustek and Kim rash to appoint a new planning commissioner. islander Photo: chrisann Silver esformes

Regional transportation organization surveys public How do islanders get around? From town to town? Or bungalow to beach? The regional Sarasota/Manatee Metropolitan Planning Organization is asking in a public survey for its 25-year plan, “Transform Tomorrow.” The MPO must revise the document every five years to include a list of transportation improvements, reflect changing priorities, trends and technologies and also address safety, infrastructure, congestion, economics and environmental sustainability. Technicians, consultants, government administrators and elected officials are shaping the plan, as are public comments via a survey on the MPO’s homepage at www.mympo.org. The survey begins with basic questions: What is your primary mode of transportation? How important is transportation to your family? Have you missed work due to a lack of transportation? Do you commute? Drive a car? Ride a bicycle? Take public transit? Use Uber or Lyft? Walk, run or jog to a destination? The survey will close Aug. 31. — Lisa neff

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Holmes Beach opposes offshore drilling Holmes Beach joined Anna Maria and Bradenton Beach in adopting a resolution to oppose the expansion of offshore drilling. Holmes Beach commissioners voted 4-0 July 23 for a resolution opposing offshore drilling activities, including seismic airgun blasting. Mayor Judy Titsworth and Commissioner Rick Hurst were absent with excuse. In May, a campaign organizer with Oceana, a grass-roots environmental organization, presented the city commission with a model resolution. Following a July 9 work session, the commission asked city attorney Patricia Petruff to modify Oceana’s resolution to reflect the city of Holmes Beach. “My take on this is, the area we live in, our water, our beaches, our offshore, are a precious resource for us,” Commission Chair Jim Kihm said July 23. “And I would be hopeful that not only our city, but many cities would join with us.” As of July 24, more than 360 municipalities and 2,200 elected local, state and federal officials had formally opposed offshore oil and gas drilling and seis-

‘

The area we live in, our water, our beaches, our offshore, are a precious resource for us. — Commission Chair Jim Kihm

’

mic airgun blasting, according to Oceana’s website, oceana.org. The site states that seismic airguns “produce loud, repetitive sounds that can travel underwater up to 2,500 miles. Blasts are repeated as often as every 10 seconds for days, weeks or months at a time. Airgun noise can reduce catch rates for fish and disrupt essential behaviors in marine mammals, like dolphins and whales.” — chrisann Silver esformes

You can catch all the news online at islander.org

Page 22 THE ISLANDER | islander.org July 31, 2019 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Nesting news By ChrisAnn Silver Esformes

Sea turtle hatchlings rescued from pool in Bradenton Beach

Sometimes the journey just takes a little longer. Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring reported July 26 that 4,486 loggerhead hatchlings had made it to the Gulf of Mexico since nesting season began May 1. Among that number were three hatchlings, named Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego by rescuers, that were esformes diverted on their journey to the Gulf by a swimming pool. AMITW executive director Suzi Fox said July 25 that she received a call that morning from Manatee County Marine Rescue Chief Joe Westerman. He told Fox he got a call from visitors staying in the 1600 block of Gulf Drive in Bradenton Beach, who reported three hatchling sea turtles in their pool. Fox said the hatchlings were exhausted from swimming in the pool, so instead of releasing them to the Gulf, an AMITW volunteer took the hatchlings to Mote Marine Laboratory in Sarasota, where they could rest in a tank before being released by boat, about a mile offshore. “Releasing them further offshore helps their chance of survival,” Fox said. “They’d already expended so much energy that is usually spent getting out to sea.” She said the turtles likely were drawn to the pool by artificial lighting. During sea turtle nesting and hatchling season on

Loggerhead hatchlings await release. the sea turtles were taken to mote marine Laboratory to rest in a tank before being released to the gulf of mexico. islander Photo: courtesy amitW

the island, people must comply with sea turtle-friendly regulations, including lighting that meets Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission standards. Hatchlings, as with nesting female sea turtles, follow their instincts toward the reflection of the moon and stars on the Gulf of Mexico. Light visible from the shoreline can disorient nesting turtles and hatchlings, leading to predation, dehydration, exhaustion and death.

Beachfront properties are required to have low, shielded exterior lighting with FWC-compliant bulbs and indoor lights must be turned off or covered by curtains or blinds. As of July 26, six of 118 hatched nests had disorientations. Fox said most lighting is in compliance. However, in a July 25 email to Holmes Beach Police Chief Bill Tokajer, Fox cited several properties, including the Anna Maria Beach Resort, 6306 Gulf Drive, formerly the Blue Water Beach Club, as alleged sources of disorientations July 4, that remained out of compliance. Tokajer responded that alleged violations at the Anna Maria Beach Resort would be heard July 31 by a special magistrate, and that code enforcement was addressing other problem locations. “Nests are hatching all over the island right now,” Fox said. “This is the time to be vigilant and make sure everyone is in compliance so hatchlings can make it to the ocean.”

Turtle watch collects data

As of July 26, 118 of 499 loggerhead nests on Anna Maria Island have hatched. Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring volunteers excavate a sea turtle nest 72 hours after it hatches to collect data, including how many eggs hatched, didn’t hatch, or if live hatchlings remain in the nest. If found, hatchlings are released to the Gulf of Mexico. AMITW invites the public to attend excavations, posting details to the group’s Facebook page. a crowd of about 50 people observe July 20 as turtle watch volunteers Barbara riskay, left, and monica riskay excavate a loggerhead sea turtle nest on the beach near the manatee Public Beach, 4000 gulf drive, Holmes Beach. the nest contained 119 hatched eggs, five unhatched eggs and one live hatchling, which was released to the gulf of mexico. islander Photo: amitW

AMITW sea turtle stats as of July 26: 499 nests, 795 false crawls, 118 hatched nests and about 4,486 hatchlings to the sea.

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July 31, 2019 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 23 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

uberâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Jump e-scooter is available for rent in tampa. to rent an e-scooter, operators download a vendorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s app to a smartphone, create an account, scan a Qr code and go. islander courtesy Photo

By Lisa Neff

Spinning wheels, spinning policy

I took a Spin scooter for a spin on a Sunday in July. I had a heck of a good time. And , I promise I posed no menace to society. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d watched news reports on Tampaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s pilot program for shared electric scooters that indicated abandoned electric scooters were piling up on Tampa sidewalks, that renters were neff leaving their rides on roadways and riders were crashing into pedestrians and racing on interstates. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d also read reports from other cities in Florida and elsewhere in the United States, under headlines assigning to e-scooters the ability to act â&#x20AC;&#x201D; to invade campuses and threaten neighborhoods. The reports conveyed a sense that e-scooter programs cause serious casualty and calamity. But I still wanted to test drive an e-scooter.

turtle watch volunteer Jenny oelfke counts eggs July 22 during a nest excavation on the beach near the end of cortez road in Bradenton Beach. the nest contained 29 hatched eggs, 91 unhatched eggs and one live hatchling, which was released to the gulf of mexico. islander Photo: amitW

islander editor Lisa neff takes a Spin scooter for a ride in tampa. the electric scooters rent for 29 cents a minute. islander Photo: connie Wolgast

And, in an afternoon scooting around the Tampa Heights neighborhood, I saw only one mishap â&#x20AC;&#x201D; when the driver of a truck failed to brake at a stop sign before turning right, causing a scooter rider to jump and tumble. When I tried to ride a scooter onto the Tampa Riverwalk, a restricted zone, I hit a geofence. A warning sounded, my scooter powered down and I turned around. As for abandoned scooters, I saw a few parked on sidewalks, possibly because their operators didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t want to deposit another $10 in their app accounts to ride a few more minutes. Tampa introduced its yearlong pilot program in collaboration with four vendors â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Spin, Bird, Lime and Jump â&#x20AC;&#x201D; and by my account it seems to be working. I was a joy rider, but the e-scooters also fill a transportation niche. The scooters can go about 15-20 mph and travel 20 miles on a single charge, providing a way for people to travel short distances, replacing short automobile rides to reduce traffic levels, improve mobility and reduce emissions. Transit riders use the e-scooters to meet â&#x20AC;&#x153;last-mileâ&#x20AC;? needs â&#x20AC;&#x201D; to go the distance between a bus stop and a destination. Imagine riding an e-scooter from the Key Royale Club to the trolley stop at Key Royale and

Marina drives, catching the trolley to the Anna Maria City Pier and then picking up another scooter to ride the short distance to our favorite sushi restaurant. Maybe scooter providers need to educate more people on rules and regulations, and perhaps some policies in the test cities need revising, but weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re still revising rules and educating people about driving automobiles 121 years after the debut of the Model T. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re not advocating a ban on automobiles because people park in no-parking areas. So maybe the leaders in the island cities â&#x20AC;&#x201D; including officials in Holmes Beach â&#x20AC;&#x201D; should think about how to make shared scooter programs work for the community, rather than enact prohibitions. Enacting a moratorium to figure out how best to implement a program, I understand. But I donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t understand prohibiting a type of transportation that could reduce the number of automobiles on roads and polluting our air. Sharing a scooter To rent a shared scooter, download a vendorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s app to a smartphone and create an account. Use the app to scan a QR code on the scooter, which unlocks and activates the scooter. In Tampa, scooter operators must be 16 years or older and have either a driverâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s license or permit. Riders must obey traffic laws, including yielding the right of way to a pedestrian. And riders should park courteously by returning scooters to designated corrals â&#x20AC;&#x201D; designated by striping on pavement â&#x20AC;&#x201D; and leaving them upright on sidewalks.

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SERVING GOURMET ICE CREAM SINCE 1984

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Âş/Â&#x2026;iĂ&#x20AC;iĂ&#x160;Â&#x2C6;Ă&#x192;Ă&#x160;Â&#x2DC;Â&#x153;Ă&#x160;Â?Â&#x153;Ă&#x203A;iĂ&#x160;Ă&#x192;Â&#x2C6;Â&#x2DC;ViĂ&#x20AC;iĂ&#x20AC;Ă&#x160;Ă&#x152;Â&#x2026;>Â&#x2DC;Ă&#x160; Ă&#x152;Â&#x2026;iĂ&#x160;Â?Â&#x153;Ă&#x203A;iĂ&#x160;Â&#x153;vĂ&#x160;vÂ&#x153;Â&#x153;`Â°ÂťĂ&#x160;pĂ&#x160; Â° Â°Ă&#x160;-Â&#x2026;>Ă&#x153;

(yes, we really make it ourselves)

â?&#x160; Voted Best Ice Cream â?&#x160; Open 7 Days a Week www.tylersicecream.com Manatee Ave & 59th 941-243-3841

Cortez & 119th 941-794-5333

Longboat Center Shops 941-383-6935

UĂ&#x160; Â&#x2C6;Â&#x2DC;iĂ&#x160; Â&#x2DC;Ă&#x160;UĂ&#x160; >Ă&#x20AC;Ă&#x20AC;Ă&#x17E;Ă&#x160;"Ă&#x2022;Ă&#x152;Ă&#x160;UĂ&#x160;"ÂŤiÂ&#x2DC;Ă&#x160;Ă&#x2021;Ă&#x160; >Ă&#x17E;Ă&#x192;Ă&#x2030;ÂŁÂŁ\Ă&#x17D;Ă¤Â&#x2021;Â&#x2122; Ă&#x160;Ă&#x160;x{Ă¤Ă&#x2C6;Ă&#x160; >Ă&#x20AC;Â&#x2C6;Â&#x2DC;>Ă&#x160; Ă&#x20AC;Â&#x2C6;Ă&#x203A;iĂ&#x160;UĂ&#x160; Ă&#x192;Â?>Â&#x2DC;`Ă&#x160;-Â&#x2026;Â&#x153;ÂŤÂŤÂ&#x2C6;Â&#x2DC;}Ă&#x160; iÂ&#x2DC;Ă&#x152;iĂ&#x20AC; Â&#x153;Â?Â&#x201C;iĂ&#x192;Ă&#x160; i>VÂ&#x2026;Ă&#x160;UĂ&#x160;Â&#x2122;{ÂŁÂ°Ă&#x2021;Ă&#x2021;nÂ°xĂ¤Â&#x2122;Ă&#x201C;

Little Italy in the â?¤ of Anna Maria Island.

5337 Gulf Drive ~ at the corner of Holmes Boulevard and Gulf Drive

941-896-9754

SMN?L ;L

HHĂŹ ';LCĂŹ ) S APP ONION STRAW IPS CH & AUCE FISH

BURGER MARGARITA MARGARITA KIDS MEAL PENNY AN INCH KIDS MEAL PENNY AN INCH KIDS DRINK KIDS DRINK

$6.49 $10.99 $9.99 $3.50 $3.50 $0.52 $0.44 $2.25 $2.25 $39.93 $2.80

SUBTOTAL TAX 7% ARGARITA)

COUPON #1 (M

- $3.50

IDE

WELCOME GU

TOTAL

$39.23

LANDSIDE

6906 14th Street West 941.758.7880

*Based off a family of four

CORTEZ

6696 Cortez Road 941.792.0077

ELLENTON

1525 51st Avenue East 941.721.7773

BRIDGE STREET PIER Bradenton Beach 941.778.AMOB (2662)

Page 24 THE ISLANDER | islander.org July 31, 2019 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Adults tackle center gridiron, kids advance on indoor pitch By Kevin P. Cassidy islander reporter

The summer adult flag football league at the Center of Anna Maria Island kicked off July 25 with the first three games played of the summer season. The outdoor season runs six weeks with a two-week playoff to follow to determine the championship. Championship night is set for Sept. 12, prior to the semifinals. cassidy Hashmark Sports, Progressive Cabinetry and Moss Builders were off on a positive start with victories and an early lead in the standings, while losses for Ugly Grouper, Gulfview Windows and Doors and Lancaster Design have them on the chase. The action kicked off with Moss Builders rolling to a 46-19 victory over Ugly Grouper behind a huge game from Jonathan Moss, who threw for two touchdowns. He also caught four passes, including two for touchdowns. Lexi Sato had four catches and two touchdowns, while Ray Gardner finished with two touchdown passes and a receiving touchdown among his eight receptions. Mike Gillum and Chad Woods completed the scoring, each with a touchdown reception. Ugly Grouper was led by Desmond Cannon’s two touchdown receptions and a pair of touchdown passes from Sirkevius Williams, who also finished with eight catches in the loss. Matt Manger finished with a touchdown pass and Cooper Rosier added a touchdown catch for Ugly Grouper. The second game also was a blowout with Hashmark Sports cruising to a 46-14 victory over Lancaster Design behind Matthew Briley’s five touchdown passes and two receiving touchdowns. Chase Richardson chipped in a pair of touchdown passes and two touchdown catches, while Corey Banks finished with four catches, including two for touchdowns. Tim Holly completed the scoring for Hashmark with a touchdown reception. Lancaster Design was led by Karri Stephens, who hauled in 10 catches, including two for touchdowns, while Tim Shaughnessy finished with two touchdown passes in the loss. The final game July 25 was a bit closer, as Progressive Cabinetry outlasted Gulfview Windows and Doors by a 33-22 score. Connor Haughey led the way

desmond cannon pulls in a catch for ugly grouper as moss Builder’s nick Sato closes in adult flag football league action at the center of anna maria island. islander Photos: courtesy center of ami/chris culhane

for Progressive with two touchdown passes and two receiving touchdowns. Jaret Rojas threw for a TD and caught a TD, while Brandon Kull and Vincent Paraspolo completed the scoring, each with a touchdown reception in the victory. Quarterback Ryan Moss threw touchdown passes to Brandin Holcomb, Dina Calvary and Jordan DeMers to lead Gulfview in the loss. The action continues at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 1, with the first kickoff on a trio of games at the center, 407 Magnolia Drive, Anna Maria.

Key Royale golf news Rain continues to plague the golfers of Key Royale Club in Holmes Beach, though players did manage to get in a round or two, starting with the men’s ninehole, modified-Stableford system match July 22. Art McMillan and Ron Vandeman both carded plus-4s to finish in a tie for first place. The women got on the course July 23 for a ninehole, individual-low-net match in two flights. Ellen Boin fired an even-par 32 to take first place in Flight A by two strokes over Jana Samuels, who carded a 2-over-par 34. Indoor soccer continues Sue Wheeler’s 2-under-par 30 gave her a oneThe summer indoor soccer season for youths com- stroke victory over Janet Razze in Flight B. pleted its fourth week of action at the center. The men’s July 25 scramble fell victim to rain. The intermediate division has Moss Builders sitting atop the standings with a perfect 4-0 record, just Horseshoe news ahead of second-place Ugly Grouper at 3-1. Island Horseshoe action at the Anna Maria City Hall Vacation Properties, Cloud Pest Control and Solid horseshoe pits was all about Hank Huyghe. Rock Construction share third — also last place — During the July 24 games, Huyghe teamed up with with matching 1-3 records. Neil Hennessey to forge the lone 3-0 pool-play record The three-team advanced division has G&G and earn the day’s outright championship. Yardscaping comfortably in the division lead with a Huyghe followed up during July 27 games by 5-1 record and Ugly Grouper in second on a 2-3-1 walking his way to a lone 3-0 pool play record and record, just ahead of AMI Locals, which sports a 2-4-1 his second win of the week. record. Play gets underway at 9 a.m. Wednesdays and The intermediate division saw Moss Builders hold Saturdays at the Anna Maria City Hall pits. Warmups off Ugly Grouper July 23 by a 5-3 score behind three begin at 8:45 a.m. followed by random team selecgoals from Jackson Titen and a goal each from Dylan tion. Sato and Mason Moss. There is no charge to play and everyone is welJesse Zaccagnino scored two goals to lead Ugly come. Grouper, which also received a goal from brother Jack in the loss. Sign up now for center The second match of the night saw Solid Rock Construction edge Cloud Pest Control by a 2-0 score. bowling challenge Carson Long and Isabella Roadman led the way with Signup is ongoing for the Center-LaPensee a goal each in the victory. Bowling Tournament at Bowlero Bradenton, G&G Yardscaping showed why it’s on top of the 4208 Cortez Road, Bradenton. Proceeds support advanced division July 23 with a 7-1 victory over AMI the Center of Anna Maria Island. Locals. Connor Samblis led the way with four goals, Cost is $30 per player and includes three while Ryan Joseph scored two and Hudson Green games, shoes and an order of pizza or wings. scored a goal. Bowlers can sign up individually or as a team. Fox Dalton scored the lone goal for AMI Locals The tourney also is looking for sponsors, in the loss. starting with the $500 signature lane sponsor, The last match of the evening saw Ugly Grouwhich provides for five bowlers, a Yeti-Center per edge AMI Locals behind a goal each from Angelogo fishing shirt and a pitcher of beer. lina Albrecht, Jackson Long, Jayden Sparks and Will A $200 lane sponsorship includes five bowlWright. ers and, for $150, a business logo is displayed on Savana Coba, Fox Dalton and Evan Talucci each a lane and at checkin. ugly grouper receiver grace mumford catches scored goals in the loss. To register or for more information, contact Action continues July 30 in the center gym with a pass in front of moss Builder’s defender chad the center at info@centerami.org or 941-778Woods during adult flag football action at the center a wildcard playoff match in the intermediate division 1908. and season action in the advanced division. of anna maria island. Southernaire Fishing Charters

Anna Maria Island Tides

Date

July 31 Aug 1 Aug 2 Aug 3 Aug 4 Aug 5 Aug 6 Aug 7

HIGH

1:53a 2:23a 2:48a 3:13a 3:40a 4:10a 4:45a 5:27a

1.6 11:16a 1.6 12:09p 1.6 1:02p 1.6 1:58p 1.7 2:56p 1.9 4:01p 2.0 5:17p 2.2 6:55p

3.0 3.0 2.9 2.8 2.5 2.2 1.9 1.6

4:27a 5:24a 6:22a 7:22a 8:27a 9:37a 10:56a 12:23p

LOW

Moon

1.5 7:08p -0.3 1.4 7:51p -0.3 New 1.3 8:32p -0.1 1.1 9:12p 0.1 1.0 9:50p 0.4 0.9 10:27p 0.6 0.8 11:03p 0.9 0.7 11:40p 1.2 1st

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

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

July 31, 2019 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 25 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Don’t mind the rain if you want mango snapper in the cooler By capt. danny Stasny islander reporter

If you like fishing in the rain, you probably love this weather. Frequent morning thunderstorms moving in from the Gulf of Mexico have made conditions slightly less favorable for fair weather anglers. Those who didn’t mind the rain were rewarded with excellent inshore Stasny action on catch-and-release spotted seatrout. Deep grass areas in Tampa Bay are host to some of the best trout fishing around. While most catches are on the smaller side — 14-16 inches — the number of trout outweigh the size. Hooking up 30-40 fighters on a morning fishing trip amounts to top action for most anglers. The only thing better is the conservation of the species, as well as redfish and snook, all catch-andrelease until the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission determines they have recovered from impacts to red tide in 2018 and early 2019. Using shiners or “hatch bait” is yielding the best bite. You may want to add a popping cork or Cajun Thunder cork to your rig to aid in casting, as the baits are small. Don’t be discouraged about the size of shiners though, as the trout don’t mind. In fact, I think they prefer the small bait. Moving offshore, snapper fishing around the ledges and reefs is producing some good action. Chumming in depths of 50-60 feet is attracting mangrove and yellowtail snapper. Try free-lining small shiners to the

Catch a memory, earn rewards

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission offers three programs that reward anglers and encourage them to target a diversity of species, decreasing fishing pressure on the most commonly sought-after catches: • Saltwater Fish Life List: Can you catch all 70 species? • Saltwater Reel Big Fish: Recognition for extraordinary-sized catches. • Saltwater Grand Slams: Earn rewards for catching three specific fish in 24 hours. Anglers also can join the Triple Threat Club and earn even more prizes — including a long-sleeve performance fishing shirt and a chance to win a weekend getaway — by participating in all three programs. Anglers must have at least one application approved for each program to qualify. The FWC also manages the Florida Saltwater Fishing Records program. For more information, go online to catchafloridamemory.com.

Fishing Charters Capt. Warren Girle

ralph Paul, of fort Worth, texas, with a nice red grouper. He caught the fish July 20 in 120 feet of water on a pinfish with capt. david White.

fish if they are visible behind the boat. If you can’t see the fish, use a jig head to get the bait down toward the bottom. Moving out to depths of 100 feet or more is providing good action — especially on American red snapper and red grouper. Both are being caught on rigs baited with frozen or live bait offerings. On my Southernaire charters, I’m putting sport anglers on their share of seatrout. Casting small shiners over deep grass areas in Tampa Bay is attracting 30-40 trout per morning to our bait. Mixed in with the trout are ladyfish, Spanish mackerel and jack crevalle, adding variety to the outing. Next, I’m targeting mangrove snapper in the bay on some of the local wrecks and reefs. Most snapper catches are 12-15 inches, with a few 18-inchers mixed in. Spanish mackerel are present and are 15-25 inches. Lastly, I’m finding catch-and-release snook willing to take the bait on the shallow flats, especially where mangrove edges and good water flow exists. Capt. Aaron Lowman is working inshore for a variety of species. Fishing deep grass flats in Terra Ceia Bay is resulting in good action on catch-and-release spotted seatrout. Live shiners combined with a popping cork are being devoured by aggressive trout. Most are 12-16 inches, although fish exceeding 20 inches are in the mix. While targeting the trout, Lowman’s anglers are seeing Spanish mackerel, ladyfish and a few mangrove snapper reeled up. And snapper is hopping in the coolers. Fishing structure in Tampa Bay also is yielding catches of mangrove snapper, macks and the introduction of a few gag grouper. Lastly, permit are being caught on artificial reefs

in the Gulf. Capt. David White of Anna Maria Charters is spending his days running offshore to work his magic in water depths of 50-100 feet. Anchoring over ledges and chumming with small dead shiner is resulting in great snapper action. Both mangrove and yellowtail snapper are biting on jigheads baited with shiners. Limits of snappers are being hooked and some are quite large — including a 27-inch mangrove snapper caught this week by one of White’s clients. Red grouper and American red snapper also are being caught, especially in depths around 100 feet. Frozen sardines and live pinfish as bait are luring these fish to the hook. Lastly, while fishing deep for grouper, White is encountering African pompano — a good find for the cooler. Jim Malfese at the Rod & Reel Pier is seeing mangrove snapper being caught with frequency. Fishers using live and frozen shrimp are finding success by casting baits under the pier. While targeting the snapper, anglers are hooking into a few flounder and catchand-release redfish. Casting jigs or silver spoons away from the pier is resulting in migratory fish, including ladyfish, jack crevalle and a few macks. Lastly, large baits, such as pinfish or mojarras, cast under the pier are attracting 30-40 inch catchand-release snook to the hook. Capt. Warren Girle is finding action on mangrove snapper while fishing offshore and nearshore structure. Ledges, wrecks and artificial reefs are host to these summer-time fish-fry favorites. Spanish mackerel and red and gag grouper can be found in these same areas. For bait, Girle is using free-lined live shiners or shiners combined with a knocker rig. Moving inshore, Girle is putting clients on catchand-release trout throughout the deeper grass areas of Tampa Bay. Again, live shiners are the bait of choice. While catching trout, Girle’s clients also are encountering some action from ladyfish and macks. Send high-resolution photos and ﬁshing reports to ﬁsh@islander.org.

Boat ramp closure

Palma Sola Causeway on Manatee Avenue/State Road 64 at the boat ramp: Manatee County closed the Palma Sola Boat Ramp for repairs and upgrades, including lowering docks, grading the parking lot, landscaping and cleaning the grounds. Public boat ramps on the island include the Kingfish Boat Ramp in Holmes Beach and two ramps at Coquina Beach Bayside in Bradenton Beach. Off the island, the nearest county boat ramp is at 5868 Riverview Blvd., Bradenton. For more information, go to mymanatee.org.

CAPT. AARON LOWMAN 'ULF "AY &ISHINGs4ARPON 53'! ,ICENSED AND )NSURED

INSHORE RE Redﬁsh Snook

O OFFSHORE SSnapper G Grouper

LIGHT G TACKLE C • FLY Over 30 years experience in local waters • USCG Licensed Full / Half Day Trips • 941.387.8383 (H) • 941.232.8636 (C) www.captainwarren.com Facebook: Captain Warren

941.465.8932 AnnaMariaFishing Guide.com

DOCKED AT SEAFOOD SHACK

Licensed

Page 26 THE ISLANDER | islander.org July 31, 2019 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

isl

an outdoor a-frame sign at the three island monkeys shop on Pine avenue in anna maria helps the business attract customers. city commissioners are reviewing sign regulations, including for a-frame signs. islander Photo: ryan Paice

biz Anna Maria split on sign regulations for businesses By ryan Paice islander reporter

A-frame sign regulations are the latest topic of debate in Anna Maria. City commissioners reviewed drafted amendments to the cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sign ordinance at a July 11 meeting, but failed to reach consensus on how to regulate A-frame signage on a long-term basis. A-frame signs are currently prohibited by city code, but commissioners placed a one-year moratorium on their prohibition in 2017 to make up for the loss of the historic Anna Maria City Pier as a draw for local businesses. The resolution-based moratorium was renewed for another year in 2018 to allow time to build the pier. Under the moratorium, each business can use one A-frame sign not to exceed 36 inches in height and 24 inches in width. City code also specifies they must be within a certain proximity of a door, cannot be placed on sidewalks, left out overnight, in the right of way, or outside in inclement weather. Commission Chair Brian Seymour said the signs have helped local businesses and suggested amending

MIKE NORMAN REALTY

city code to end the prohibition of the signage and regulate its use. However, Commissioner Amy Tripp said the A-frame signs should remain prohibited because adding regulation of them would cause more work for code enforcers. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I think they add clutter,â&#x20AC;? Tripp added. After two hours of discussion without a consensus on how to proceed, city attorney Becky Vose said she would bring two versions of the amended sign ordinance to the next discussion. She said one version

EST. 1978

would uphold the prohibition while the other would permit and regulate the signage, and commissioners could decide between the two. Commissioners will revisit amending the sign ordinance â&#x20AC;&#x201D; which will also adjust size requirements for construction site signage and the permitted number of signs for commercial spaces â&#x20AC;&#x201D; at 6 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 8, at city hall, 10005 Gulf Drive.

Business news

Does your business celebrate achievements? Maybe youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re new in business or your staff deserves kudos. Submit information to news@islander.org. EXPERIENCE REPUTATION RESULTS SALES/RENTALS Professional Service to Anna Maria Island Since 1974

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Mike Norman Realty INC

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View on Zillow.com Realtor.com

3 bd 3 ba 1,700 sqft

Mike Norman Realty INC OFFERING THE BEST SELECTION OF SALES & RENTALS ON ANNA MARIA ISLAND SINCE 1978 www.mikenormanrealty.com 31o1 Gulf Drive, Hholmes Beach 800-367-1617 | 941-778-6696

Gulf-Bay Realty of Anna Maria Inc. Jesse Brisson - Broker Associate, GRI 941-713-4755 800-771-6043

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Come see this custom-built home in Anna Maria with 4beds/6baths/3car. Short walk to direct beach access. Over 3,200 sf under air. Pool and spa, privacy, tons of open space, elevator. No rental restrictions. Featured in this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s community center tour of homes! $1,990,000

July 31, 2019 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 27 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

BizCal

By Sandy Ambrogi

AMI CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Wednesday, Aug. 7 11:30 a.m. — Monthly luncheon, Solo’s Pizza, 3244 E. Bay Drive, Holmes Beach. Members $18, guests $30. Tuesday, Aug. 13 5 p.m. — Ribbon-cutting, Vinny’s Italian Kitchen, 5337 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. Light bites, live music and a rafﬂe with ribboncutting at 5:30. Thursday, Aug. 15 Noon — Lunch & Learn, Center of Anna Maria Island, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria. “Growing your business with Visit Florida” is the topic. $10 includes lunch, RSVP required by Aug. 13. For more information about the AMI chamber or for event reservations, call 941-778-1541 or email info@amichamber.org.

Construction underway at former open-air market lot

By ryan Paice islander reporter

The bare bones are emerging for a new commercial building on Bridge Street in Bradenton Beach. The building, at 107 Bridge St. between the Island Time Inn and the Fish Hole Miniature Golf, is a threestory structure that will feature a second-floor balcony and a rooftop deck. A Daiquiri Deck will operate on the second and third floors and the Bridge Street Bazaar gift shop will occupy the first floor. The venue, located where an open-air market used to take place, will be the fifth for the Daiquiri Deck, a Floridian restaurant-bar chain with locations on St. Armands Circle, Siesta Key and Venice. The property owners are Commissioner Jake AMI CHAMBER ONGOING Spooner and his mother, Debbie Sniadach. They also own the Bridge Street Bazaar, which will relocate to Through Aug. 31 the retail store in the new structure, and the miniature Membership drive. Incentives offered. golf attraction to the east. Through Sept. 30 Spooner, also a member of the Bradenton Beach Limited sponsorships available for Bayfest, Saturday, Oct. 19, Community Redevelopment Agency, said in a July 25 on Pine Avenue in Anna Maria. interview with The Islander that he is still deciding on Through Sept. 30 Nominations accepted for small business of the year award in a plan for the old Bazaar building. The new building will have 10,946 square feet of four categories. air-conditioned space, including 6,358 square feet on LBK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE the second floor and 4,331 square feet on the first floor Thursday, Aug. 8 for retail. There will also be a 1,600-square-foot top 11:30 a.m. — Networking@Noon, Lazy Lobster of Longboat dining area on the roof without air-conditioning. Key, 5350 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key. Members $25, guests $35. Thursday, Aug. 22 6 p.m. — Nautical network, combined chamber event aboard the Anna Maria Princess, Bradenton Beach Marina, 402 Church Ave., Bradenton Beach. Light bites and cash bar. $5 members, $10 guests. For more information or event reservations, contact the Longboat Key Chamber of Commerce at 941-383-2644 or info@lbkchamber.com. Send listings to news@islander.org.

Chamber collecting nominations for awards

The Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce is accepting nominations for its small business of the year awards. The deadline for nominations is Sept. 30. For more information, contact the chamber at info@annamariaislandchamber.org or 941-7781541.

a rendering shows the front of a three-story commercial building where there is vacant land between island time inn and fish Hole miniature golf on Bridge Street in Bradenton Beach. the image was included in architectural plans for the new building, to be occupied by the Bridge Street Bazaar gift shop and daiquiri deck. islander Photo: courtesy Bradenton Beach

The deck will accommodate 89 people, while the middle floor can host 160 occupants, giving the Daiquiri Deck an occupancy of 249 people. To address an increase of traffic and parking, Spooner plans to use an evening shuttle service from Cortez Beach to Bridge Street. With the bones of the building in place, Sarasota contractor D.L. Porter Constructors is now working on installing windows. He added that construction of the building hadn’t slowed because of recent inclement weather, and should be completed by March 2020. The structure has been in the works since it was approved — along with a special exemption for parking — by city commissioners in October 2015.

Business news

Does your business celebrate achievements? Submit information to news@islander.org.

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Page 28 THE ISLANDER | islander.org July 31, 2019 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

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

LOST AND FOUND

canoe: aLuminum 18-foot. $350. Located in Holmes Beach. call, 941-778-3367.

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)

LoSt Wedding Band. June 27, near the feast restaurant. gold, engraved rcd, rBB. 478-477-5288, 478-737-2102.

ceiLing LigHt: gLaSS, pretty amber, takes three bulbs, 29-inches long, 15-inches wide, irregular shape, $20. 614-946-5070. furniture for SaLe: Solid wood dining room table with four chairs, $150. Queen sofa bed, $300. Both are in excellent condition. 305-298-4068.

ANNOUNCEMENTS LPn/caregiVer aVaiLaBLe for part-time help. excellent references. call Lisa, 508826-1561.

ge StoVe: White, slide-in. electric. Works great, must sell. excellent condition. $50. 941-778-6288.

a d Va n c e d P i a n o S c H o L a r S H i P, auditions at Lesia Schulha Studio, full and partial tuition. 941-518-9973 concert_pianist@verizon.net

SectionaL Sofa: eXceLLent condition. Purchased at Pamaro Shop. Washable cushions. $350. 941-778-6854. antiQue Partner deSK: all wood, $1,000. See at the islander office, 3218 e. Bay drive, Holmes Beach. 941-778-7978.

Sandy’s Lawn Service Inc. ESTABLISHED IN 1983

Wanted: Your oLd cellphone for recycling. deliver to the islander, 3218 e. Bay drive, Holmes Beach.

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PLACE CLASSIFIED ADS ONLINE AT WWW.ISLANDER.ORG PropertyWatch By Jesse Brisson Special to the islander

ANSWERS TO JULY 31 PUZZLE

A D E P T

B E L I E

R E A C T G O T

S H O E R A C K

I S N T

T U L C I I P O P T H O S P O P R T S O O K T B E R S O R E I M M E R B I T E S T S

E A S I E S T

P A T E E T H E R

A G A T E

H I T M A N D E E T F E E

By Jesse Brisson

Island real estate transactions