The Islander Newspaper E-Edition: Wednesday, June 28, 2023

Water line woes

Endless Season

Island preps for July 4 holiday

By ed Scott islander reporter

Rooms are booked. Fewer “booms!”

Anna Maria Island businesses and the trade professionals who support them are conveying a variety of perspectives on the upcoming Independence Day holiday.

AMI water main collapses

By ryan Paice islander reporter

The “catastrophic” collapse of one of two water mains to Anna Maria Island spurred quick action from Manatee County. But it could be a week or more until normal service is restored.

About 1,000 feet of a 16-inch water main attached to the underside of the Anna

Maria Island Bridge on Manatee Avenue collapsed around 4 p.m. June 19, falling into Anna Maria Sound after the hangers holding the pipeline “failed unexpectedly,” county information outreach manager Bill Logan wrote in a June 22 email to The Islander.

The water main was installed in 1982 under the bridge roadbed, which is inspected

turn to water woes, Page 2

Gov. signs parking garage bill

Hoteliers likely will be happy this year. Available lodging will be hit and miss for July 4, said Terri Kinder, president of the Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce.

“From what I understand, from many of our business members, there are some places that do still have some availability, as far as accommodations are concerned,” Kinder said. “It’s kind of few and far between, especially around the holiday weekend.”

White Sands Beach Resort in Holmes Beach is “booked solid” July 1-8, according to owner/manager Jeff Gerry.

A 50-year resident of the island and second-generation owner of the resort, Gerry said people come to Anna Maria Island for the “7 miles of sugar soft sand beaches,” a phrase that probably brings smiles to Kinder and Elliott Falcione, executive director of the Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau.

“Any of the three major summer holidays is going to drive traffic to the beach if the weather is good and there’s no adversarial occurrence,” Falcione said.

It’s a great time for Florida residents to spread their wings inside the Sunshine

Protest follows

By ryan Paice islander reporter

House Bill 947 is signed and in the books.

But the battle over a potential parking garage in Holmes Beach remains far from over.

Gov. ron desantis filed a transmittal letter at 1:55 p.m. June 23 notifying Secretary of State Cord Byrd that he’d approved 10 bills, including HB 947, to become law.

Top Notch

Photo contest opens

HB 947, fi led by rep. Will robinson Jr., R-Bradenton, authorizes the county to construct a parking garage in a public park managed by the county within the Holmes Beach city limits, such as Manatee Public Beach, 4000 Gulf Drive.

The bill overrides a city code that prohibits multilevel parking facilities within the municipal limits by allowing the county to construct such a structure without city per-

turn to GaraGe Bill, Page 5

Do your photos get lots of love on Instagram?

Do you get praised for your eye on TikTok or Facebook?

See how you fare in The Islander’s Top Notch photo contest, a summertime tradition with six weekly winners and a grand-prize award for the best photo entry, as well as props and prizes for pet pix.

We have some rules and guidelines. See details on page 3.

islander Photo: manatee county

water woes continued from Page 1

every three months by the Florida Department of Transportation.

The pipeline also is monitored by the county, which inspects all pipe crossings after major storms, but will reevaluate inspection frequency and make “any adjustments necessary” following this water main’s collapse, according to Logan.

County utilities director Evan Pilachowski said at a June 20 news conference that the county was notified June 16 that some of the pipeline’s support hangers had failed.

The county hired a repair crew out June 19 to make fixes but the water main had fallen by the time they assembled the equipment and materials and returned to the bridge.

The pipeline’s collapse resulted in a drop of water pressure — to as low as 37lbs per square inch — to Anna Maria and Holmes Beach until after the water main was capped later the same day.

About 4,200 residents were notified June 19 about the interrupted services via reverse-911 calls.

Since the fallen water main is supplementary to a 24-inch water main on the Cortez Bridge, water pressure was restored to about 65 psi, or 80% of its usual level.

Logan wrote that the county was working with Bradenton-based Woodruff & Sons, as well as the DOT, to complete emergency repairs on the collapsed water main.

He projected the water main would be restored by Friday, July 7, but wrote that additional work to reinforce existing hangers, secure the new main and remove the failed section of piping from the water would run up to 2-3 weeks longer.

According to a June 23 news release, the repair work was set to require periodic lane closures through June 30 across the AMI Bridge.

One lane of the bridge and its corresponding pedestrian sidewalk was closed 9 a.m.-5:30 p.m. June 26, with alternating traffic across the bridge throughout.

manatee county commission chair Kevin Van ostenbridge provides an update at a June 20 news conference about the collapsed water main across the anna maria island Bridge on manatee avenue. With Van ostenbridge are commissioner amanda Ballard, utilities director Wvan Pilachowski and deputy administrator charlie Bishop. islander Photo: robert anderson

The same procedure was set to be followed as crews work 7 a.m.-5:30 p.m. June 27-30 on repairs. Further lane closures may be required “in the coming weeks,” according to the release.

“While the county does not anticipate customers being out of service at this time, residents will be notified if service interruptions may be necessary,” the release states.

We ask that everyone pay attention as they travel through the area,” Holmes Beach Police Chief Bill Tokajer wrote in a June 24 text message to The Islander. “People should give themselves extra travel time.”

In the meantime, Pilachowski asked county utility customers on the island to reduce water usage where they can due to compromised fire flows — or water available for responding fire departments, typically via fire hydrants.

West Manatee Fire Rescue Chief Ben Rigney said June 20 that the North River Fire District provided a 2,100-gallon water tender to supply WMFR Fire Station 3 in Holmes Beach while supplies are low.

The county also placed buoys around the fallen pipeline to alert boaters about the underwater obstruction and worked with the U.S. Coast Guard to transmit a warning message to boaters.

As of June 22, there had been no known incidents with boaters involving the fallen water main, according to Logan.

“We had a catastrophic event yesterday at about 4 o’clock, but luckily nobody was in danger,” County Chair Kevin Van Ostenbridge said during a June 20 news conference. “At this time, nobody is in danger and there is adequate water pressure out on the island.”

“All of our different agencies came together. Everybody responded quickly. Everyone worked together. … In the end, we got things under control, got pressure back on right away and we got the area secured. So, thank you to all our of partners, it could not have gone any smoother,” he added.

For more information about the water main repairs, visit mymanatee.org.

Islander reporter Robert Anderson contributed to this story.

ON THE COVER

toP: a disconnected water main attached to the underside of the anna maria island Bridge on manatee avenue leaks June 19 where the pipeline failed earlier that day. islander Photo: courtesy manatee county

Bottom: Protesters wave signs June 23 in opposition to House Bill 947, legislation to allow manatee county to circumvent Holmes Beach code and build a parking garage at manatee Public Beach, 4000 gulf drive. islander Photo: ryan Paice

▼ Modern Chop Happy Hour 4-6

▲ Martini Monday: Signature Martinis, $7, plus 1/2 price lite bites -- lounge only.

▼ Prime Rib Tuesdays, plus $3 Tacos and Margaritas -- lounge only.

▲ Wine Down Wednesday, 5O% OFF Wines by the Glass, plus Snow Crabs

▼ Live Maine Lobster Thursdays, plus Happy Hour all nite in the lounge.

▲ Saturday: Roll to Win, call for details!

Coming July 3 ~ LUNCH!

1830 59th St W, Bradenton 4-10 Mon-Sat, closed Sunday 941.201.6006

Call to book private events. modernchopsteakhouse.com

Top Notch

2022’s big winner

Bianca conte of Poughkeepsie, new York, won a $100 grand prize from the islander and gift certificates from islander sponsors for her (“Jaws”-like) entry into the paper’s 2022 top notch photo contest.

2023 photo contest launches: deadline July 6

The Islander’s Top Notch contest begins anew.

The contest celebrates what still is known as the “Kodak moment,” despite Kodak’s downfall in the switch from film to digital technology.

look to July 6 for the first of six weekly deadlines and don’t forget your July 4 holiday photos in the coming weeks.

The contest includes six weekly front-page winners.

Each will claim an Islander “More than a mullet wrapper” T-shirt and each will be entered in the competition for the grand prize.

One weekly shot will take the grand prize in the contest, earning the photographer a $100 prize from The islander and certificates from partner merchants.

There also is a pet photo contest with a prize-winner announced in the final week and we’ll shout out the honorable mentions as well.

Look online for complete rules and details.

Note, each original JPG must be included in a

single email with the name of the photographer, date the photo was taken, location and description, names of recognizable people and the address/ phone number of the photographer.

All rules posted online at islander.org must be observed.

Entries should be sent to topnotch@islander.org.

— Bonner Joy

July 4 brings closings

Independence Day will be observed Tuesday, July 4. most government offices will be closed, including city halls in Anna Maria, Bradenton Beach and Holmes Beach.

The fare-free island trolley will operate as normal but Manatee County Area Transit buses will not operate other fixed-route services or the Handy Bus.

Residential trash or recycling pickups regularly scheduled for Tuesdays will be pushed to Wednesday and collection services may be pushed back through the week.

Manatee County parks, preserves and beaches will be open to the public but the Island Library will not open.

The islander newspaper offi ce also will be closed July 4.

Q&A 062823

The Islander poll

Last week’s question

SUNSET CRUISES & DOLPHIN TOURS

By Lisa neff

Happy summer. My best summer tradition:

18%. Road trip.

4%. Camping trip.

15%. Beach walks.

45%. Family vacations.

17%. Other. this week’s question

About Fourth of July fireworks …

A. Go to a display every year.

B. Sometimes catch a show.

C. Set off our own.

D. Don’t like.

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

islander file Photo

Penny frick’s patriotic shot taken at the anna maria city Pier was a top notch favorite in 2009.

1st responders ready for the 4th — minus pyrotechnics

By robert anderson islander reporter

Local law enforcement agencies are preparing to safeguard pirates on land and ride mounted horses on sand.

Independence Day on Anna Maria Island is nearly at hand.

While revelers take their July 4 holiday, law enforcement and emergency services personnel will protect the public and provide a safe atmosphere.

July 4 falls on a Tuesday but the island will see holiday activity for about a week — July 1-8.

“We want people to be mindful that if they want to come out here there will be a wait because all of our roads coming to the island are already over capacity,” said Holmes Beach Police Chief Bill Tokajer.

He said the city does not have a parking issue but it does have a traffic issue.

“We had plenty of parking over Memorial Day weekend, where we had over 100 spots that were still unused,” Tokajer said. “The city has a map on its website that shows you all the available parking. Pay attention to the map, park legally, make sure that you are always faced with the flow of traffic and make sure all four tires are off the road. If you can’t get the tires off the road, it’s not a legal parking place.”

people considering fi reworks as a part of their Fourth of July celebration are legally restricted to sparklers, smoke devices, party poppers, snappers and snakes, the chief added.

Exploding, launching or projectile fireworks are illegal and their use can carry up to a $250 fine.

illegal fireworks can be seized and a violation may be issued to those who possess them.

Sky lanterns also are prohibited.

“What we do is, if someone is doing fireworks, is to make sure they are doing them in a safe manner and not endangering any people,” Tokajer said. “If they

JUlY 4 continued from Page 1

State.

“We typically get pretty busy in July, again, because a lot of people in the state … are taking their vacations,” Kinder said. “We don’t always get a lot of people from up north in the summer. The No. 1 location that most of the visitors come from is the state of Florida.

“There are a lot of people who live in the middle of the state who like to go out and spend time at the beaches.”

“From Lakeland, Orlando, Jacksonville, if they are going to drive that far, they’re more inclined to stay for a night or two,” Falcione said, in addition to people who drive here from about an hour away and don’t stay overnight.

Kinder said the highlight of the holiday will be the Anna Maria Island Privateers Independence Day Parade set for 10 a.m. Tuesday, July 4.

There are no permitted fireworks displays on the island.

“We realized that fireworks can be detrimental to the environment here,” said Kristelle Soto, chief marketing officer for chiles Hospitality, which in the past has sponsored fireworks at the sandbar and Beachhouse restaurants. “They cause a lot of debris on the beach and somebody has to go and clean all that up. If we do it on our property, it’s our responsibility. But it’s

Living like locals Luke Hogg, 6, begins to build a sandcastle June 20 with Savannah foster, right, while Jenna Williams sets up a place to relax. the group recently moved to the anna maria island area from indianapolis and enjoyed their first beach day as locals. islander Photo: robert anderson

endanger someone, then we confiscate for the safety of the public.”

For those who miss the message board while traveling west on Manatee Avenue, some other basic beach rules to know:

• No pets;

• No fires;

• No grilling;

• No glass bottles;

• No alcohol.

The rules apply on the beaches across the island, but concessions that sell alcohol and picnic areas with grills can be found at Manatee Public Beach in Holmes Beach and Coquina Beach in Bradenton Beach.

Bradenton Beach Police Chief John Cosby told The Islander June 20 that people visiting Coquina and Cortez beaches should arrive early because parking can be limited on holidays.

Beach parking will be different from previous holidays this year due to county construction projects.

“Be patient and know that parking is limited with the construction issues that are going on,” Cosby said. “The construction crews will not be actively working over the weekend.”

“The real heavy construction where we are going to have some significant changes in traffic flow is at the S curve there,” he continued. “I have asked them and they have agreed to not even attempt that until after the Fourth is over.”

Due to a county sewer project, parking is not available at Cortez Beach. However, parking at Coquina Beach is open.

Parking in the city’s rights of way is illegal and can lead to a $75 fine. And if a vehicle is blocking access for emergency vehicles, it will be towed.

harmful to the environment. We really want to protect the animals, as well as people, from any danger that the fireworks could bring.”

Vacationers mourning the loss of fireworks could focus on food, Soto suggested.

“We have new menus at Sandbar Seafood & Spirits and the Beach House Waterfront Restaurant, really highlighting summer flavors right now and fresh seafood,” she said.

One local bartender was not happy ahead of the holiday.

Kyle Garrison, who works at Tommy Knockers Saloon in Bradenton Beach, said he could use more good news.

“It’s been a weird year for the hospitality industry,” said Garrison, who has worked at various businesses on the island the past five years.

He said there was as much foot traffic this season compared to years past “and I attribute that to the fact that rental rates are so high that people are not willing to come out and spend the money that they used to.”

Garrison said people are staying in rather than going out, as evidenced by “decimated” beer aisles at the grocery stores on Saturdays — a big “move in” day for vacation rental guests.

Go to Tommy Knockers for the Fourth of July, Garrison said, for cheap drinks and good times.

“We’ll have extra people on as always,” Cosby said of staffing. “i’m spreading out my admin staff a little bit so that we all pitch in and do what we need to do to get the job done.”

Cosby said parents should keep an eye on kids and that water safety — whether in a pool or the Gulf of Mexico — is paramount.

He also mentioned that on the morning of the Fourth, people should keep an eye out for pirates.

“Don’t forget about the parade,” Cosby said. “The parade is on the Fourth itself, which is a Tuesday. That is going to cause some traffic snarl for a couple hours there in the morning.”

The Anna Maria Island Privateers parade will begin at 10 a.m. starting at Coquina Beach and heading north, ending at City Pier Park in Anna Maria.

There is no permitted fireworks show this year in Anna Maria, though Manatee County sheriff’s deputies will boost its staffing.

MCSO will be working in a concerted effort with island law enforcement, with a mounted patrol at Coquina Beach July 3 and July 4.

The MCSO, which patrols Anna Maria under a contract with the city, also will have added deputies on the island to assist with crowd control and monitoring the beach, according to assistant public information officer melissa conway.

Conway, in a June 21 email to The Islander, wrote, “Our mounted patrol and SRT (special response team) units will be at Coquina Beach that weekend. On July 1 and 2, some of our traffic deputies will work in conjunction with the Coast Guard and FWC to focus on Boating under the influence enforcement.”

It is unlawful to operate a vessel in the state with a blood alcohol level of 0.08% or higher.

“We’d remind residents and visitors to park only in designated areas,” Conway wrote. “Have patience and plan ahead as holiday weekends tend to bring more people and traffic to the island — and follow all posted

See 1st resPoNDers, next Page

Meetings By Lisa neff

ANNA MARIA CITY

July 13, 2 p.m., commission.

July 27, 6 p.m., commission.

Anna Maria City Hall, 10005 Gulf Drive, 941-708-6130, cityofannamaria.com.

BRADENTON BEACH

July 5, 9:30 a.m., CRA. CANCELED

July 5, 1 p.m., planning and zoning. CANCELED

July 6, commission. CANCELED

July 19, 1 p.m., ScenicWAVES.

July 20, noon, commission.

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

HOLMES BEACH

July 5, 5 p.m., planning.

July 11, 9 a.m., commission (budget).

July 18, 9 a.m., commission (budget).

July 18, 5 p.m., commission.

July 19, 5 p.m., planning.

July 25, 10 a.m., code enforcement.

July 27, 11:30 a.m., police pension.

Holmes Beach City Hall, 5801 Marina Drive, 941-708-5800, holmesbeachfl.org.

MANATEE COUNTY

July 24, 9 a.m., commission (workshop).

July 25, 9 a.m., commission.

July 27, 9 a.m., commission (budget).

July 31, 1:30 p.m., commission (with school board).

Aug. 21, 9:30 a.m., tourist development council, Center of Anna Maria Island, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria.

County administration building, 1112 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton, 941-748-4501, mymanatee.org.

ALSO OF INTEREST

Independence Day, a federal holiday, is July 4. Most government offices will be closed.

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

cosby tokajer

GaraGe Bill continued from Page 1

mits or approval.

HB 947 comes in response to an almost three-year feud between the county and city over parking lost when the city established a park-by-permit system in summer 2020.

The city prohibited public parking 9 a.m.-5 p.m. in 645 parking spaces along residential roadways and began selling $15 decals to residents and property owners to allow them to park in those spots.

City officials stand by the system, which they argue has improved residential quality of life by reducing roadside parking in residential areas and its side effects, such as litter and noise.

county officials, led by commission chair Kevin Van Ostenbridge, R-District 3,, and Robinson at the state level, argue such a system is unfair to off-island residents visiting the beaches and have pushed the city to restore the public parking spaces.

HB 947 cruised through this year’s legislative session, passing the House of Representatives April 27 on a 116-0 vote and the Senate May 4 on a 39-0 vote.

The bill became law upon the governor’s approval, so the onus to pursue the construction of a parking garage in Holmes Beach now falls to the county commission.

The county has presented preliminary plans for a $45 million parking garage — funded by tourist development taxes — that would provide 1,500-1,700 paid parking spaces, expanded concessions, restroom and locker room facilities, as well as the potential for res-

1st resPoNDers continued from Page 4 signage, including no alcohol on public beaches.”

Marine patrol vessels will be on the water, doing safety checks, monitoring the “No Wake” zones and manatee protection zones.

Meanwhile, newly promoted Manatee County Beach Patrol Capt. Marshall Greene shared safety tips for families visiting the beaches.

“With the big crowd levels, there’s a possibility of lost children, lost family members,” he said. “If you do ever lose anybody, report to a lifeguard tower as fast as possible.”

The beach patrol staff has grown by seven over the past two months and all towers at Coquina, Cortez and Manatee Public beaches will be guarded.

“We are going to be out here from 9 a.m.-7 p.m.,” he said. “Towers will be guarded from 10 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. but we will be on duty until 7 p.m. So, if any calls come through, we will still be here.”

Typical staffing runs 9 a.m.-5 p.m., but the county extended the hours for the holiday.

Greene said visitors should look for signal flags at the towers before entering the water.

“If we do have rip currents and waves present, you will see a yellow or a red flag and that’s where you need to be cautious,” Greene said. “If you have any questions, ask a lifeguard.”

taurant and retail spaces.

The structure would replace the 400-space parking lot and existing facilities — restrooms, the Anna Maria Island Beach Cafe and the Surf Sun & Sand Gift Shop.

The plan also would require the removal of all trees on the county’s buildable land at the beach.

As of June 24, the construction of such a parking garage had not been included in the county’s capital improvement program, which provides programming and funding for capital projects over the next five years.

The CIP is required under the county’s comprehensive plan and annually reviewed and revised by the county commission.

Robinson did not respond to a June 23 call from The Islander.

Van Ostenbridge did not respond to a June 24 email from The Islander.

‘No parking garage’ protest

A little more than two hours after DeSantis’ letter was fi led, about 50 protesters gathered outside the Manatee County administrative building, 1112 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton, to oppose a potential parking garage.

Protesters carried handmade signs and placards reading, “No parking garage in Holmes Beach,” “Danger Will Robinson!” “Big gov’t sucks!” and more while they waved for motorists to honk horns in support of their cause.

Holmes Beach Mayor Judy Titsworth and Commissioner Carol Soustek, as well as city staff, including code compliance supervisor JT Thomas and public works administrator Matt McDonough, were in the crowd.

Titsworth told The Islander June 23 that she was not surprised DeSantis, who has not responded to any of the city’s attempts to contact him, signed HB 947 into law.

“I’m actually happy that DeSantis made the decision and didn’t just leave it unsigned,” she said. “Now, when it comes time to elect the president, people can see the overreach and how it’s just not like the party.”

Anna Maria resident Jack Bergbom brought a sign reading, “S.A.M. ,” harkening back to Save Anna Maria inc., a now defunct nonprofit that opposed the Florida Department of Transportation’s plans to replace the Anna Maria Island Bridge on Manatee Avenue with a megabridge.

Bergbom also said HB 947’s violation of municipal home rule and the county’s pursuit of a parking garage are contradictory to the Republican party’s “small government values.”

“These conservatives are just sticking their hands where they shouldn’t be stuck,” he said. “It’s despotism, in my opinion. … We’ve got politicians in Tallahassee telling Holmes Beach basically how to live

their lives.”

Bergbom called for county commissioners to drop their pursuit of the parking garage and for voters to pay attention.

“I’d like to see the people that are responsible voted out of office and have a little more sanity put back into the government,” he said. “A little less government and a little more home rule.”

Bradenton Beach resident Susan Putney, who was holding a sign stating, “Quaint paradise, Old Florida ≠ parking garage!” told The islander June 23 that the proposed parking garage would be a slippery slope to ruin the island’s character.

She said she moved to the island in 2021 after visiting and falling in love with its nature and lack of major development.

“It’s going to take away the charm and the quaintness of a very small island that so many people love. I’m relatively a newbie there, but I can appreciate what they’re trying to hold onto and save because there aren’t many places like that left,” Putney said.

She said the beach already is near capacity during weekends and adding more people to the equation by increasing parking wouldn’t be beneficial.

“I challenge those people to come out here on a weekend and sit in that traffic and see what it’s already like before they do this,” Putney said. “Take a walk on the beach on a holiday weekend. It’s shoulder-toshoulder and umbrella-to-umbrella. You can only fit so many people in a given space.”

She added that she wants the city to put up a legal challenge against the bill.

Holmes Beach resident Rod Tolerton, who held a sign with the Joni Mitchell lyrics, “They paved paradise / put up a parking lot,” told The Islander June 23 that he also wants the city to challenge HB 947 in court.

“It’s going to ruin the island,” Tolerton said. “The traffic is going to become unimaginable. … Bring them in by bus from somewhere else, just keep traffic off of the island. It’s just going to create a huge mess.”

The protesters aren’t alone in their opposition to HB 947 and a potential parking garage.

A change.org petition, titled “Veto HB 947 – Say NO to proposed parking garage!” sought 5,000 signatures when it launched May 15.

As of June 24, 6,497 people had signed the petition, according to change.org.

Another petition, launched May 17 on manateecitizenstakingaction.com, had gathered 2,915 signatures in opposition to the bill as of June 24.

Titsworth said she directed city attorney Erica Augello to prepare legal challenges against the bill to bring to a city commission meeting for consideration.

In the meantime, the mayor called for people opposed to the parking garage to prepare for the long haul.

“i just hope the citizens don’t give up the fight,” Titsworth said. “Because it’s not over yet and this is worth fighting for.”

Ready for summer season?

Is your business ready for the summer season on AMI? Improve your odds of success with The Islander’s readers — residents, seasonal visitors and vacationers — looking to shop and dine, as well as indoor and outdoor fun. For advertising info, call or text 941-778-7978.

titsworth

robinson

Holy cow

This was a week to remember.

A water main collapse over Anna Maria Sound/ Sarasota Bay.

A governor approved bill to allow Manatee County to override Holmes Beach home rule to force-build a parking garage at the Manatee Public Beach.

What at first appeared catastrophic — the water main break — quickly became manageable with the diversion of water from a 24-inch line that crosses the Cortez Bridge to Bradenton Beach.

And aren’t we all thankful?

As a result, when the water went off in Anna Maria and Holmes Beach around 4 p.m. June 19, restaurants were forced to shut down service, per health department regulations. But they were able to pick back up in about an hour as water service returned, although with limited pressure.

Residents and businesses on Perico Island and Flamingo Cay waited until almost 7 p.m. for water from the tap.

But imagine if it wasn’t possible to divert that Bradenton Beach water line and be grateful.

We hope the repairs, which are underway and must be performed in the heavy traffic to and from the island on Manatee Avenue from a single lane of the bridge, are swift and sustainable.

Watch out for a signal operation and one-way traffic on the bridge and, please, go slow.

If only this were a lesson for the county in the fragility of the aging infrastructure that provides vital services to the community, maybe the county board of commissioners would think hard about building a boondoggle parking garage at the Manatee Public Beach — or anywhere else on Anna Maria Island.

If a $45 million parking garage needs to be built — along with another boat ramp or two and a dock facility — it must be off-island but nearby.

It should be built where it can serve transit vehicles — trolleys and water taxis — that can deliver people to the island without impacting the roads and the public beaches — at Robinson, Perico or Neal preserves?

There isn’t anyone I know who wouldn’t appreciate more business, but also I know everyone is scratching their heads on “how” to do it with the least impact.

Traffic is woeful some days — but those of us who live here and nearby know and respect that there’s a time to go and a time to stay.

Just imagine now that it wasn’t just the waterline that failed, but the bridge.

Let’s put $45M toward improving infrastructure.

— Bonner Joy, news@islander.org

‘Save the sea turtles’

I want to acknowledge that some visitors do good from far away for Anna Maria Island.

We come to AMI two times — hopefully three — a year.

My son, now 9, initiated a “Save the sea turtles” lemonade stand last year and people donated bake goods and money!

We raised $250 and adopted two sea turtle nests through islandturtlewatch.com.

I cannot express what an amazing organization this is!

Skimming online

Website: islander.org

Facebook: islandernewspaper

Twitter: @ami_islander

Instagram: @theislanderami

Pinterest: @islandernewspaper

News alerts: Register at islander.org

E-edition: Subscribe at islander.org

Connections, AMI & beyond

▼ Publisher, Co-editor Bonner Joy, news@islander.org

▼ Editorial editor Lisa neff, lisa@islander.org

robert anderson, robert@islander.org

Joe Bird, editorial cartoonist

Kevin cassidy, kevin@islander.org

Jack elka, jack@jackelka.com

Brook morrison, brook@islander.org

ryan Paice, ryan@islander.org

▼ Contributors

Karen riley-Love

Jacob merrifield

capt. danny Stasny, fish@islander.org

nicole Quigley

▼ Advertising Director

toni Lyon, toni@islander.org

▼ Webmaster Wayne ansell

▼ Office Manager, Lisa Williams info@, accounting@, classifieds@, subscriptions@islander.org

▼ Distribution

urbane Bouchet ross roberts

Judy Loden Wasco

(All others: news@islander.org)

last year, they sent the kiddos plaques and certificates.

I reached out for more information a couple of days prior to this year’s sale and the director responded immediately with such kindness.

This year, we raised $500!

My kids from Buffalo, New York, love AMI, and sea turtles.

Nicole Lee, Buffalo, New York

Islander archive 24/7

Some years ago, The Islander was invited to take part in a project with the University of Florida George A. Smathers Libraries. We donated our collection of newspapers beginning with the first edition in 1992. Our archive is maintained on the library site, searchable by keyword, name or date. Look for The Islander in the uofF digital newspaper collection at ufdc.ufl.edu.

Letters to the editor

Anna Maria: Mayor Dan Murphy, 941-708-6130, cityofannamaria.com, ammayor@cityofannamaria.com.

Bradenton Beach : Mayor John Chappie, 941778-1005, cityofbradentonbeach.org, mayor@cityofbradentonbeach.com.

Holmes Beach: Mayor Judy Titsworth, 941-7085800, holmesbeachfl.org, hbmayor@holmesbeachfl.org.

Manatee County : Republican Commissioner Kevin Van Ostenbridge, 941-745-3705, kevin.vanostenbridge@mymanatee.org.

Florida Governor : Republican Ron DeSantis, 850-717-9337 for staff, flgov.com for email, @GovRonDeSantis via Twitter.

Florida Senate: Republican Jim Boyd, 941-7426445, boyd.jim.web@flsenate.gov, flsenate.gov, @JimBoydFL via Twitter.

Florida House : Republican Rep. William Cloud “Will” Robinson Jr., 941-708-4968, will.robinson@myfloridahouse.gov, myfloridahouse. gov, @will_robinsonjr via Twitter.

We welcome opinion letters. You can submit your comments along with a name, city of residence and phone number for verification to news@islander.org. Also, please, limit letters to 250 words.

Farm to village to bay cortez road curves past the Sunny Shores subdivision, separated by farm fields, in the village of cortez and carries vehicles across Sarasota Bay to anna maria island in 1967.

islander Photo: manatee county Public Library System

10&20 years ago

From the June 25, 2003, issue

• Anna maria’s code enforcement officer issued an order to stop work on dredging at the Galati Marina channel after finding batteries, pipes, sheet metal and other potentially hazardous items were brought up in the dredge.

• Elected officials from Anna maria and Bradenton Beach questioned the $30 fee Holmes Beach planned to charge skaters from the two cities to use a new skateboard park, while charging $10 for Holmes Beach residents. Anna Maria donated $12,000 toward park construction and Bradenton Beach $3,500.

• Anna maria Elementary school’s Kathy Hayes was named one of five elementary school principals in Florida to receive the 2003 Principal Achievement Award from the Florida Department of Education.

From the June 26, 2013, issue

• progress appeared to be made in mediation efforts between the city of Holmes Beach and the Mainsail lodging and development team during sessions at CrossPointe Fellowship, 8605 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach.

• Two days after Holmes Beach commissioners approved a petition for the owners of an unpermitted beach treehouse to pursue a special referendum on keeping the structure the city amended a notice of violation to include more complaints.

• Bradenton Beach commissioners said the process of finding a tenant for the Historic Bridge Street Pier restaurant would be lengthy, as at least four businesses showed interest.

— Lisa neff

You can peruse the islander archive, dating back to its launch in november 1992, at ufdc.ufl.edu.

We’d love to mail you the news!

We mail The Islander weekly for a nominal $54 per year. We also offer online e-edition subscriptions — a page-by-page view of the weekly news for only $36 per year, but you must sign up online. It’s the best way to stay in touch with what’s happening on Anna Maria Island.

We bring you all the news about three city governments, community happenings, people features and special events … even real estate transactions … everything you need if your “heart is on Anna Maria Island.”

If you don’t live here year-round, use this form to subscribe by (snail) mail for yourself or someone else. (Sorry, we do not suspend mail subscriptions — you get The Islander free while you’re here!)

BULK MAIL U.S. SUBSCRIPTION (allow 2 weeks for every week’s delivery)

❑ 1 year: $54 ❑ 3-6 Months: $36 ❑ 1-3 Months: $24

U.S. FIRST CLASS AND CANADIAN MAIL SUBSCRIPTION

❑ 1 year: $160 ❑ 3-6 Months: $98 ❑ 1-3 Months: $54

❑ Single Issue: $5 FIRST CLASS MAIL, U.S. ONLY, maximum four weeks

MAIL TO:

Name shown on card: Exp. Date

Credit card billing address: MAIL START DATE:

a manatee county summer swimming program takes place on the bayside in anna maria south of the rod & reel Pier. Kids rode school buses to the island for the sessions. the image in the library archives is not dated.

Beach patrol chief retires, new command on deck

By robert anderson islander reporter

Before the first sunset on a long summer day at the beach, the sun set on a man’s long career on the beach.

Manatee County Beach Patrol Chief Joe Westerman retired in April after 34 years with the county, having begun Feb. 4, 1989.

The top beach patrol spot is now held by acting Chief Chet Brown — a lieutenant from the county code enforcement department.

county public information officer Bill logan told The islander June 21 that the selection process to fill Westerman’s position was ongoing.

The beach patrol, part of the county public safety department, includes the lifeguards in the towers at Anna Maria Island’s county-maintained beaches — Coquina and Cortez in Bradenton Beach and Manatee in Holmes Beach.

The towers are staffed 365 days a year, with longer hours on the longer days of summer.

“We are going to be out here from 9 a.m.-7 p.m.,” said Manatee County Beach Patrol Capt. Marshall Greene, recently promoted from lieutenant, regarding July 4 staffing. “Towers will be guarded from 10 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. but we will be on duty until 7 p.m. So, if any calls come through, we will still be here.”

Swimmers are encouraged to use the public beaches monitored by lifeguards.

And, when on the beaches, people are encouraged to follow lifeguards’ directions, including checking the caution flags at the towers.

The lifeguards are watching the water but also checking the shore for issues because a distress call might be for a wader in trouble in a rip current or a child lost on the sand.

On average, lifeguards attend 150 medical emergencies, 80 water rescues and 2,800 “swimmer assist” actions each year, according to beach patrol stats.

Toward the end of Westerman’s time with the beach patrol, the department faced staffing shortages.

A year ago, in a June 14, 2022, interview, he told The Islander, “Everywhere across the United States there is a shortage of lifeguards.”

The beach patrol also earned accolades on Wester-

man’s watch, among them the 2017 Beach Patrol of the Year Award, the most prestigious honor presented by the Florida Beach Patrol Chiefs Association.

The award recognizes elite public service to the community and Manatee County’s team stood out for 2017 in part because of its launch of a new marine rescue paramedic unit and its response to Hurricane Irma.

During the island evacuation for the storm, lifeguards assisted with traffic control, medical care, victim rescue and patient transport.

Westerman had plenty of experience responding to the storm.

He became chief in February 2012, when Jay Moyles retired. At the time, Westerman was a captain in the beach patrol.

The Islander reached out to Manatee County for Westerman’s contact information but, citing HR regulations, no information was shared.

Did you know?

At a minimum, Manatee County lifeguards must swim 500 meters in less than 10 minutes, run a half mile in less than 3 minutes, 30 seconds and be able to rescue a victim from 100 yards offshore. For more about the beach patrol, go to mymanatee.org and click on departments or call 941744-3950.

Tiki & Kitty’s

Tiki and Kitty are heating up their shopping plans, looking for a summer day or two to make a round of visits to the best shops.

They’re starting at Blue Flamingo, home to hip and trendy upcycled and repurposed goods, furniture and decor, garden features, candles, jewelry and work by local artisans. Blue Flamingo also offers Dixie Belle paints.

Cat’s Meow has 7,700 square feet of vintage, unique and repurposed items. You may want to lace up your skates, as this large, former skating rink has plenty to offer bargain, antique, unique hunters. Plus, there’s a mancave and a cool clothing boutique. You don’t want to miss this vast collection of vendors.

Blessed and Distressed is a tastefully designed store — so inviting, you’ll want to pull up a chair — with collectibles and work by local artists at Palma Sola Square, around the corner from Winn-Dixie. It offers 30-plus vintage, upcycled, shabby chic and

artsy vendors. You won’t be disappointed. Scavengers Marketplace invites you to visit its many vendors at the Palmetto store, 2100 U.S. 301, where a portion of your purchase benefits moonracer No Kill Pet Rescue — our favorite pet rescue group. Founder Lisa Williams leads the rescue efforts and also works at The islander as office manager.

FYI: Scavengers also carries Fusion Paints.

The Vintage Vine Market offers fine vintage

Summer’s here and the time is right for some seasonal warnings.

June 21 marked the official start to summer, a season that brings warmer water, crowded beaches, afternoon storms and changes in behavior for animals on the shore and in the water.

So with the arrival of the new season — especially for those on break or holiday — come a series of cautions:

• Stingrays are being reported in the shallow waters around ami.

the rays are not aggressive but they are defensive, equipped with a venomous barb near the base of their tail.

in the summer, people entering shallow water should do the “stingray shuffle,” lightly sliding or shuffling your feet, pushing the sand forward.

Why shuffle?

to give the stingray time to swim away.

if stung by a ray, use piping hot water to flush the wound and soak it as soon as possible.

• Look for warning flags on beaches.

With a glance at the beach towers where lifeguards monitor the shore, people can check for hazards in the water.

two red flags: Water closed.

red flag: High hazard, high surf, strong currents.

Yellow flag: medium hazard.

green flag: Low hazard, calm conditions.

Purple flag: dangerous marinelife.

wares and more with a whimsical twist in historic Old Manatee along the newest section of the Bradenton Riverwalk. The location in the 1910 building oozes charm — high ceilings, exposed brick and tons of natural light and greenery. And they take select consignments by appointment.

And don’t forget “Tiki & Kitty” readers to tell people you meet along the way, “The Islander sent me.”

Joe Westerman and now-capt. marshall greene travel in an atV. islander Photo: courtesy via twitter

• When thunderstorms are in the forecast, lightning can be a threat. did you know that each year there are about 25 million cloud-to-ground lightning flashes?

give yourself enough time to pack and leave the shore ahead of a storm.

• Rip currents are responsible for a majority of drowning deaths in florida.

the best safety measure is to swim where lifeguards are on duty.

if you are not a strong swimmer, go only knee deep into water.

if caught in a rip current, try to relax and do not swim against the current. instead, try to tread water and float while calling for help. if help is not available, swim parallel to the shore until released from the current and then swim toward shore, letting the waves do the work.

• In the summer, sargassum can be present in local waters and wash onto the shore.

the florida department of Health has issued an advisory for people to be cautious with the seaweed, which can contain vibrio vulnificus.

to reduce the risk of vibrio infections, people should avoid exposure of open wounds or warm brackish saltwater; eat shellfish promptly after cooking; wear protective clothing when handling raw shellfish and seek health care if feeling ill after exposure to the water.

• The health department also issued an alert June 19 after a second case of malaria from a mosquito was confirmed.

mosquitoes definitely can be found on the island and, to some degree, on the beaches. the health department advises people to apply insect repellent, cover up and avoid areas with a lot of mosquitoes at dawn and dusk.

• The summer season is nesting season for shorebirds and sea turtles.

Beachgoers should respect nesting habitats, maintain a distance from wildlife and keep the shoreline clear of litter.

—

AM begins budgeting with capital outlay funds

By ryan Paice islander reporter

The city of Anna Maria’s budgeting process for fiscal 2023-24 has begun.

City commissioners reached consensus June 22 to move forward with proposed public works, stormwater and capital outlay expenses for the upcoming fiscal year, which begins Oct. 1.

Commission Chair Mark Short presented the city’s proposed capital outlay budget for Mayor Dan Murphy, who was absent.

The city’s proposed $3,674,634.46 expense for public works is inflated by $3,349,634.46 for the city’s “reimagining” Pine Avenue project.

That includes $1,939,634.46 for a first phase of improvements, largely to be funded with a $1,288,440 state appropriation and $471,766.94 from the U.S. American Rescue Plan Act.

Pine Avenue funding also includes $1,410,000 for a second phase of improvements along the corridors of Magnolia and Spring avenues, also funded by a state appropriation.

The remaining $325,000 of public works expenses are for road paving.

The city’s proposed stormwater expenses include $1,216,298.50 to install infiltration trenches, $525,235 for maintenance and $75,000 to design a pumping station.

The city’s proposed $1,802,258.24 in capital outlay expenses includes a wish list with $156,486.24 to install a sail shade above the playground at City Pier Park, 103 N. Bay Drive, $79,660 to expand an existing sail shade and $69,912 to install a shade sail at the base of the pier.

Other proposed projects include:

• $500,000 to extend a multiuse path along Gulf drive;

• $500,000 to add a public restroom outside the Island Players theater and city hall due to the amount of people parking in the lot;

The Islander Wedding Directory

MUSIC/ENTERTAINMENT

Chuck Caudill Entertainment Beach weddings and events. DJ, live guitar and more from an experienced island professional. 941-778-5676 • www.chuckcaudill.com

Gulf Drive Band The Best! Classic Danceable Tunes Musical Entertainment DJ for Weddings, Receptions. Call: 941-778-0173. email: gulfdriveband@gmail.com

At a glance

2022-23 adopted budget

Public works expenses: $3,431,589

Stormwater expenses: $1,755,716

Capital outlay expenses: $1,013,232

2023-24 proposed budget

Public works expenses: $3,674,634.46

Stormwater expenses: $1,816,533.50

Capital outlay expenses: $1,802,258.24

— ryan Paice

• $275,000 to engineer and permit improvements to the lake laVista channel;

• $200,000 to improve and consolidate city hall so the building department can return and the Manatee county sheriff’s Office substation can move to the city annex at 307 pine Ave.;

• $21,200 to redesign the island players parking lot to include a drop-off area compliant with the U.S. Americans with Disabilities Act.

Commissioner Charles Salem also proposed a feasibility study into the decline of the city’s residential population.

“I think we all know the cost of living on this island has gotten much more expensive,” Salem said. “A lot of jurisdictions will help offset property taxes by doing a temporary or permanent deed restriction.”

He said he’d discussed the item with Murphy, who was supportive and recommended funding $100,000 for a feasibility study.

The commission’s consensus was to tentatively add Salem’s proposed feasibility study to the proposed budget.

The city’s next budget workshop was set for the week beginning July 10 and will cover projected revenues for the upcoming fiscal year, including ad valorem taxes.

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT ON AMI

Thursday, June 29

6:15 p.m. and 8:15 p.m. — Island Players documentary screening, 10009 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria. Information: 941-778-5755, theislandplayers.org.

Friday, June 30 2 p.m. — Rock garden painting, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341.

ONGOING ON AMI

Throughout June, Artists’ Guild Gallery’s “Junes and Spoons and Ferris Wheels” exhibit, 5414 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6694.

ONGOING OFF AMI

Throughout June, “New Beginnings” all-member exhibit, Island Gallery West, 456 Old Main St., Bradenton. Information: 941-7786648.

Last Saturdays through Aug. 26, 9 a.m.-2 p.m., Downtown Bradenton Public Market, Old Main Street. Information: 941-3018445.

Through Sept. 2, Thursday-Saturday, Laser Light Nights musical shows, the Bishop Museum of Science and Nature, 201 10th St. W., Bradenton. Fee applies. Information: 941-746-4131.

Through Sept. 3, “Eco Engineers” exhibit, the Bishop Museum, 201 10th St. W., Bradenton. Fee applies. Information: 941-746-4131, bishopscience.org.

Through Sept. 4, “Reclaiming Home: Contemporary Seminole Art,” the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, 5401 Bay Shore Road, Sarasota. Fee applies. Information: 941-360-7390, ringling. org.

Through Oct. 15, “Lorna Bieber: Natural World,” the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, 5401 Bay Shore Road, Sarasota. Fee applies. Information: 941-360-7390, ringling.org.

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

First Fridays, 6-9:30 p.m., Village of the Arts First Fridays Artwalk, 12th Street West and 12th Avenue West, Bradenton. Information: villageofthearts.com.

Second and fourth Saturdays, 2-4 p.m., Music on the Porch jam session, presented by the Florida Maritime Museum and Cortez Cultural Center, outdoors, 4415 119th St. W., Cortez. Information: floridamaritimemuseum.org, fmminfo@manateeclerk.com.

SAVE THE DATE

Oct. 3-May 7, Anna Maria Farmers Market, Anna Maria. Oct. 7, Florida Maritime Museum Cortez Nautical Flea Market,

BB center hosts sale, lunch

The Annie Silver Community Center will host a potluck lunch and book sale Friday, June 30. The activities will be 10 a.m.-1 p.m. at the neighborhood center, 103 23rd St. N., Bradenton Beach.

For more information, call Dianne Coates at 724-787-1418.

Cortez.

KIDS & FAMILY

ON AMI

Players to screen doc

The Island Players will light up the big screen instead of trodding the boards June 29.

Two free screenings of a short documentary about the group and the history of the playhouse will be at 6:15 p.m. and 8:15 p.m. Thursday, June 29, at the theater, 10009 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria.

Grey Matter Studio created the documentary, which will run about 23 minutes. It debuted at the 2023 Sarasota Film Festival earlier this year.

The Island Players will host a Champagne reception, as well as a question-and-answer session with the production team.

Thursday, June 29

10 a.m. — “Ocean Superheroes” special program, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Info: 941-778-6341.

Friday, June 30

10 a.m. — Forty Carrots, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341.

Tuesday, July 4

10 a.m. — Anna Maria Island Privateers Fourth of July Parade, from Coquina Beach in Bradenton Beach to City Pier Park in Anna Maria. Information: moespride@verizon.net.

OFF AMI

plans also include raffle prizes — an announcement said, “Bring cash!”

For tickets or more information, go online to greymattersfilms.com/islandplayers.

Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341.

2 p.m. — Sunshine Stitchers, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341.

Friday, June 30

10 a.m.-1 p.m. — Annie Silver Community Center potluck lunch and book sale, 103 23rd St. N., Bradenton Beach. Information: 724787-1418.

Tuesday, July 4

9 a.m. — Longboat Key Chamber of Commerce Freedom Fest and Hot Diggity Dog Parade with the Rotary Club of Longboat Key, Bicentennial Park, 500 Bay Isles Road, Longboat Key. Information: 941-383-2466.

9 p.m. — Manatee Riverfront July 4 fireworks off the Green Bridge fishing pier, downtown Bradenton and Palmetto riverfronts. Information: 941-932-9400.

ONGOING OFF AMI

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

Third Fridays, Teen Nights, the Bishop Museum, 201 10th St. W., Bradenton. Fee applies. Information: 941-746-4131, bishopscience.org.

Second Saturdays, Quest for kids, the Bishop Museum, 201 10th St. W., Bradenton. Fee applies. Information: 941-746-4131, bishopscience.org.

SAVE THE DATE

Oct. 21, Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce’s Bayfest, Anna Maria.

CLUBS & COMMUNITY

ON AMI

Thursday, June 29

Noon — Seaside Quilters, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive,

ONGOING ON AMI

Saturday — July 29, Aug. 26 in the summer — 8:30 a.m., Kiwanis Club of Anna Maria Island meeting, Bradenton Beach City Hall, 107 Gulf Drive N., Bradenton Beach. Information: 941-7781383.

OFF AMI

Friday, June 30

6 p.m. — Anna Maria Island Privateers Krewe Night and Scholarship Evening at Bradenton Marauders, LECOM Park, LECOM Park, 1611 Ninth St. W., Bradenton. Fee applies. Fee applies. Information: 941-812-2943.

ONGOING OFF AMI

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

SAVE THE DATE

July 17, Anna Maria Island and West Manatee Democratic Club meeting, Holmes Beach.

July 22, Anna Maria Island Privateers-Drift In Christmas in July party, Bradenton Beach.

SPORTS & GAMES

ONGOING ON AMI

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

Most Wednesdays, 1 p.m., mahjong club beginners, Island

PLeaSe,

Island happenings

members of the anna maria island Privateers ride along July 4, 2022, in their independence day Parade. this year’s parade will begin at 10 a.m. tuesday, July 4, at coquina Beach in Bradenton Beach and roll north to city Pier Park in anna maria. islander file Photo: Bonner Joy

AMI to show patriotic pride with July 4 parade

Fire the cannons.

And fire up those water guns.

Independence Day will be celebrated on and around Anna Maria Island Tuesday, July 4, and the day before.

The main event on AMI will be the Anna Maria Island Privateers parade, set to begin at 10 a.m. July 4 at Coquina Beach in Bradenton Beach, with participants due to arrive at 8 a.m. to organize the procession.

The parade will travel north on Gulf Drive.

In Holmes Beach, the parade will travel on Gulf, East Bay, Marina and Palm drives.

In Anna Maria, the parade will travel on Gulf Drive, then Pine Avenue east to City Pier Park.

Participants must be on wheels, as the route is too long and the parade moves too fast for walkers.

Some other encouragements and cautions:

• Entries with a generator must be equipped with a fire extinguisher;

• Firing of black powder is allowed;

• Entries must identify their representation;

• political advertising is not allowed and;

• Entries should be decked out for the holiday.

Entry in the parade is free but the Privateers welcome donations, which will support the Roser Food Pantry.

For more information about the island parade, go online to amiprivateers.org or call Privateer Jennifer

Privateers bring Xmas cheer

Ho, ho, it’s hot.

The Anna Maria Island Privateers will celebrate Christmas in July with Santa Claus and supper. The nonprofit dedicated to “kids and community” will host its annual Christmas in July celebration beginning at 6 p.m. Saturday, July 22, at the Drift In lounge, 120 Bridge St., Bradenton Beach. plans include a raffle for a $300 liquor basket, a lotto and a “sampler buffet” supper and visits with Santa.

The cost per person for supper will be $10. For more, call the bar at 941-778-9088.

Mais at 941-812-2943.

Off-island fireworks and more

Celebrations also are planned on Longboat Key and on the mainland, including:

• monday, July 3, fireworks at lEcOm park, 1611 Ninth St. W., Bradenton, will follow the Bradenton Marauders baseball game. The game will begin at 6:30 p.m.

For more information, call the box office at 941747-3031.

• July 4, 9 a.m., the rotary club of longboat Key presents the Hot Diggity Dog Parade and Contest, beginning at Truist Bank, 510 Bay Isles Road, Longboat Key.

The parade will coincide with the Longboat Key Chamber of Commerce’s Freedom Fest, 9-11 a.m. at Bicentennial Park, 500 Bay Isles Road.

For more information, call the chamber at 941383-2466.

• July 4, 9 p.m., fireworks will begin after dark along the riverfront in Bradenton and Palmetto with the show originating from the Green Bridge.

The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature, 201 10th St. W., Bradenton, will offer special seating for the fi reworks during “red, White and Boom at the Bishop.”

For more information about the museum event, 941-746-4131.

Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-7786341.

Most Fridays, 11:30 a.m., mahjong club experienced players, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941778-6341.

OFF

Odd Duck Designs Shop

Monday, July 3

6:30 p.m. — Bradenton Marauders’ Independence Day celebration with baseball and fireworks, LECOM Park, 1611 Ninth St. W., Bradenton. Fee applies. Information: 941-7473031.

ONGOING OFF AMI

Through Sept. 3, Bradenton Marauders baseball, LECOM Park, 1611 Ninth St. W., Bradenton. Fee applies. Information: 941747-3031.

Saturdays, 7 a.m., Robinson Runners run, walk stroll, Robinson Preserve NEST, 10299 Ninth Ave. NW., Bradenton. Information: 941-742-5923, crystal.scherer@mymanatee.org, mymanatee.org.

OUTDOORS & NATURE

ONGOING ON AMI

Fourth Wednesdays through August, 7 a.m., Manatee Audubon Society “Birds and Breakfast,” at various locations. Information: 941592-7622.

ONGOING OFF AMI

Saturdays, 9 a.m., Mornings at the NEST, Robinson Preserve, 10299 Ninth Ave. NW, Bradenton. Information: 941-742-5923, mymanatee.org.

GOOD TO KNOW

KEEP THE DATES

July 4, Independence Day.

Aug. 26, Women’s Equality Day.

Sept. 4, Labor Day.

BB commission reviews tentative tax hike, 2023-24 spending

By robert anderson islander reporter

Bradenton Beach commissioners reviewed the 2023-24 tentative city budget in a June 20 meeting at city hall.

There will be another meeting in July, when numbers will be verified and changes can be made, followed by public hearings and ordinance adoptions in September.

The new fiscal year will begin Oct. 1.

The millage used in the proposed budget is the same as last year, 2.3329, which will amount to a tax increase since assessed property values grew from $857,361,046 for 2022-23 to $956,015,555 for 2023-24.

Based on the city’s estimated certification of taxable value the city could expect to realize $2,332,696 in ad valorem funding, as compared to 2022-23’s $2,003,867.

Property taxes in Florida are collected based on millage rates. A millage is a 10th of a percent, or $1 for every $1,000 in property value.

An owner whose home is appraised at $500,000, with a 2.3329 millage rate and no exemptions would pay $1,166.45 in property taxes.

During the June 20 session, city clerk Terri Sanclemente reviewed proposed expenses for the administration and commission budgets.

“The department heads got together and we

reviewed everything for the budget. We looked at all the numbers and our suggestion this year is no proposed salary increase and just a cost of living at 8%,” she said.

The COL increase will increase the administration spending $45,870, from $705,181 in 2022-23 to $751,051. Sanclemente said the change also is due to insurance increases.

Police Chief John Cosby said expenditures for the police department would increase by $143,608 for 2023-24, resulting in a proposed budget of $1,772,869.

The increases include travel and education costs, as well as health insurance and overtime.

“In order to keep up with the culture in law enforcement, training is No. 1,” Cosby said. “The state is also requiring some extra mandatory training. It’s not always held in our region, so we have to travel to get that done.”

The city’s liability insurance is going up about 85% due to insurance companies deferring the costs from natural disasters, Cosby said.

Cosby oversees emergency management and projected those operations will see a $12,500 increase due to the procurement and upgrade of phone systems at the police department. There also are increases in associated travel.

Code enforcement also falls under Cosby’s supervision. He said the budget will see a $16,084 raise due to the addition of overtime for the new code enforcement officer.

“The new code enforcement officer will be required to come out at least twice on weekends to do inspections and make sure construction is being followed correctly. Also, to help out with the turtle watch,” the chief said.

Code enforcement also will handle parking enforcement on holidays.

Budgeting for the planning department will increase from $448,615 to $466,333, building official Steve Gilbert said.

“There was one increase in contracts for building inspection services. Almost everything else is the 8% cost-of-living increase,” Gilbert said.

Tom Woodard, head of public works, said a change to the pier budget is insurance. Pier budgeting rose $36,569 due to a $33,800 hike in insurance.

SAM EZERSKY / EDITED BY WILL SHORTZ

The streets and roads budget will increase by $45,402 for salary, travel and per diem costs.

Stormwater budgeting will increase by $10,806 for salaries and benefits.

Facilities budgeting will rise from $113,306 to $133,878, a $20,572 increase mainly for employee insurance.

Total general fund expenditures in the 2023-24 tentative budget are budgeted at $4,373,575, $113,397 over 2022-23.

The commission unanimously approved each section of the tentative 2023-24 budget.

The votes June 20 were 4-0. Commissioner Marilyn Maro was absent with excuse.

The budget ordinance will be adopted and a millage rate set at public hearings in September.

The next meeting on the budget will be at 9:30 a.m. Thursday, July 5, at city hall, 107 Gulf Drive N.

2023-24 tentative budget at a glance…

administration: $751,051

commission: $180,638

Police: $1,772,869

emergency operations: $89,400

code enforcement: $103,555

Planning: $466,333

community rating system: $47,284

Pier: $104,864

Streets and roads: $450,295

Stormwater: $229,908

facilities: $133,878

Sanitation: $2,000

Streets/roads capital projects: $ 13,000

Stormwater capital projects: $8,500

facilities capital projects: $20,000

total expenditures: $4,373,575

2022-23 budget

expenditures: 3,631,757

revenues: $4,184,065

reserve spending: $115,512

millage rate: 2.3329

rollback rate: 2.0210

assessed property value: $857,361,046

Bradenton Beach commissioners and department heads gather to listen June 20 as mayor John chappie begins a budget workshop. islander Photo: robert anderson

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

enthusiasm goes around the room June 22 at the island Library as chandler campbell from the Wildlife & discovery center in madeira Beach presents “animal encounters.” campbell fielded questions about the critters, including an alligator, bearded dragon lizard and a hedgehog. Her favorite question: “do alligators live in saltwater?” the answer, she said, is they can but will not stay in it long. gators can live in fresh, brackish and saltwater. islander

Photos: nenita daguinotas

Great ‘Encounters’ at the library

Kids pet a bearded dragon held by chandler campbell during “animal encounters” at the island Library. the event was part of the summer reading program, “all together now,” which continues through July. the library encourages kids — from infants to teens — to participate. Kids earn a new “brag tag” for every four hours that they read up to 20 hours. at the 20 hour-mark, they win a book and entry into their library grand-prize drawing for their age. the next special program will be “ocean Superheroes,” 10 a.m. June 29. for more information, call the library at 941-778-6341.

Funding boosts AME marine-science school program

An equation: $1 million plus $1 million equals an expanded marine-focused arts and science academy in Manatee County.

The state 2023-24 budget that Gov. Ron DeSantis signed earlier in June includes two allocations of $1 million each for the Manatee County School District’s Guy Harvey Academy of Arts and Sciences, which is based at Anna Maria Elementary in Holmes Beach.

“The $2 million is actually bifurcated on two different pages of the budget,” said Kevin Chapman, the school district’s director of strategic planning and district initiatives. “My guess is it was done that way because it was approved in both the House and Senate.”

Chapman worked up the funding request, which was presented by state Sen. Jim Boyd, R-Bradenton, to provide “quality education in marine science and STEM for all students in Manatee County with the Guy Harvey Foundation by creating outdoor learning laboratories on Tampa Bay, classroom materials and expansion into a workforce ready/career pathway to

King Middle School and Manatee High School.”

The academy, a partnership involving the district, the Guy Harvey Foundation and the state, launched for the 2022-23 school year and continues its operation this summer, with district students attending programs at the AME campus.

AME principal Mike Masiello told The Islander June 20 that a staff meeting would take place later this summer to discuss academy plans.

He said he’d like to see academy-related improvements on the campus’ waterfront, possibly including installation of a boat dock.

DeSantis vetoed another $2 million school funding request related to an education partnership with the Guy Harvey Foundation.

State Sen. Jay Trumbull, R-Panama City, requested funds for the Bay County District School for marinescience education to encourage students to “get salty as they experience the natural marine resources around them, perhaps for the first time.”

The academic year begins Thursday, Aug. 10.

Kids line up June 22 at the island Library to touch a 3-foot-long, 15-pound alligator held b chandler campbell of the madeira Beach’s Wildlife and discovery center.

By Lisa neff

‘Inspirational speaker’ to address Roser congregation

Roser Memorial Community Church will host “inspirational speaker” Justin Halas during 8 a.m. and 10 a.m. services Sunday, July 2.

An announcement said Halas was a former drug addict who now runs a life-change program, High on Jesus, as well as the nonprofit Hand up to Victory.

The nonprofit’s mission is to help people coming out of jail or off the streets find self-sustaining sobriety and personal growth.

Roser is at 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria.

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

Roser volunteers serve Our Daily Bread

On the second Monday of each month, Roser Memorial Community Church volunteers assist with serving meals at Our Daily Bread in Bradenton.

Hours of service are 9-11:30 a.m. and usually the Anna Maria church provides six or seven volunteers.

For more information, call Lynn Brennan at 813758-3234.

St. Bernard European trip planned for August

A nine-day pilgrimage with the Rev. Bernie Evanfski at St. Bernard Catholic Church is being planned for later this summer.

Travel Now, operated by Barbara Murphy, a church member, is coordinating the trip set for Aug. 21-29 and including visits to holy sites in Europe.

A bulletin post for the Holmes Beach church read, “Join fellow parishioners on a fun, informative pilgrimage with our own Father Bernie.”

For more information, call Travel Now at 941-2282916.

Gathering is the religion page for The Islander. Send notices to calendar@islander.org. Please, include a phone number for publication.

Beach buddies on detail

Volunteers meet July 6, 2020, at a cleanup station sponsored by the Holmes Beach police and code enforcement departments to collect litter left by fourth of July revelers on the shoreline. a post holiday cleanup will take place at 9 a.m. Wednesday, July 5, in the city, with volunteers asked to report to the beach at 52nd Street. for more information, call city hall at 941-708-5800.

islander file Photo

ON AMI

CrossPointe Fellowship, 8605 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. Info: 941-778-0719, crosspointefellowship.church.

Worship: Sundays, 9 a.m., followed by life group.

Ongoing: Wednesdays, 7 a.m., men’s Bible meeting; Wednesdays, 6:30 p.m., Youth Summer activities; Fridays, 10 a.m. women’s Bible meeting.

Episcopal Church of the Annunciation, 4408 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. Info: 941-778-1638, amiannunciation.org.

Worship: Thursdays, 9:30 a.m.; Sundays, 9:15 a.m.

Ongoing: Most Wednesdays, 8 a.m., men’s breakfast.

Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, 6608 Marina Drive. Holmes Beach. Info: 941-778-1813, gloriadeilutheran.com.

Worship: Sundays, 9:30 a.m., followed by coffee and fellowship.

Ongoing: First Sundays, food bank collections; Wednesdays, 9:30 a.m., women’s social gathering. Harvey Memorial Community Church, 300 Church Ave., Bradenton Beach. Information: 941-779-1912.

Worship: Sundays, 9:15 a.m. Roser Memorial Community Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Information: 941-778-0414, roserchurch.com.

Worship: Sundays, 8:30 a.m., 10 a.m.

Ongoing: Wednesdays, 2:45 p.m., June 21, July 21, Aug. 9, Golfing for God, Bradenton; Wednesdays through Aug. 30, 1 p.m., GriefShare; Tuesdays, 2 p.m., women’s book study.

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

GoodDeeds

AMI Rotary wins awards

The Rotary Club of Anna Maria Island recently won the District Governor’s Award for outstanding service and dedication during a Rotary International District 6960 District Conference.

Outgoing club president Jim McDaniel also took home an honor — the District’s Small Club President of the Year award.

The district includes eight Florida counties.

Cleanup volunteers called

The city of Holmes Beach will keep a July 4 holiday tradition — and coordinate a post-holiday cleanup Wednesday, July 5.

The city seeks volunteers for a beach cleanup beginning at 9 a.m. at the beach access at 52nd Street, where a cleanup canopy and city staff will welcome people to join the effort.

For more information, call city hall at 941-7085800.

GoodDeeds Does your group offer islandcentric services? Does your group need volunteers or other help? Email calendar@islanderorg.

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

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

OFF AMI

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

Worship: Sundays, 10 a.m.

Ongoing: Wednesdays, 10 a.m., Women’s Bible Study; Mondays, 9 a.m., Men’s Bible Study.

Longboat Island Chapel, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key. Info: 941-383-6491, longboatislandchapel.org.

Worship: Sundays, 10 a.m.

Temple Beth Israel, 567 Bay Isles Road, Longboat Key. Info: 941-383-3428.

Worship: Fridays, Shabbat, 5:30 p.m.; Saturdays, 10 a.m.

SPECIAL DATES & EVENTS

Sept. 15, Rosh Hashanah.

Sept. 24, Yom Kippur.

GET LISTED, CHANGE LISTINGS

Seasons change and so do schedules.

Please, send Gathering announcements, listings and/or changes in worship calendars and other events to calendar@ islander.org.

Assistance offered on AMI

• roser Food Bank welcomes applicants who live and/or work on Anna Maria Island for food assistance, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Information: 941-778-0414.

• Aid offers financial help to those who live on the island, go to church on the island, attend school on the island and work on the island. Information: 941-7252433.

Assistance sought on AMI

• Wildlife inc. rescue and rehabilitation in Bradenton Beach seeks help feeding and tending to injured animals. Information: 941-778-6342.

• moonracer Animal rescue seeks volunteers to offer foster and forever homes for rescued animals, as well as assist with technology. Info: 941-345-2441.

• roser Food Bank seeks donations. roser memorial Community Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, administers the pantry, supported by All Island Denominations. Information: 941-778-0414.

— Lisa neff

Halas

Obituaries

Michael Anthony Castagna

Michael Anthony Castagna, 51, unexpectedly died June 15 in Lakewood Ranch.

He was born Sept. 1, 1971, in Greenwich, Connecticut.

He will be remembered for his incredible sense of humor and his ability to bring laughter to those around him. He had a deep love for sports, particularly golf, and had a true passion for cooking.

He was a construction manager in New Canaan, Connecticut. Later, he embarked on a new journey and became a skilled pool technician in Charlotte, North Carolina.

castagna

In late 2021, he relocated to Florida to be closer to his family.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date. The family requests memorial donations be made to a charity of your choice.

Mr. Castagna is survived by his beloved son, christian of connecticut; his mother, Heather Guerin Tellone and husband leonard of lakewood ranch; brothers Leo and wife Jennifer of Monroe, North Carolina, and Kristopher and wife Tina of Anna Maria island; nephews leo, chase and Kyle; nieces cortney and husband James, Emerson, pennie and Abbie; and Rachel Connerton, his longtime companion, as well as Jennifer Carrano, his former wife, who played an important role in his life and contributed to the many cherished memories he leaves behind.

Patricia Copeland

Patricia “Pat” Copeland, 76, of Anna Maria, died June 13.

She earned a bachelor’s degree with a concentration in English and history in 1969 from Miami University in Oxford, Ohio.

She fell in love with Anna Maria Island when she and husband Doug were wed at his family home near Bean Point in Anna Maria.

She moved her family to Anna Maria in 1974, where she followed her passion for writing, working as a reporter and becoming a fixture at local city, school and fire commission meetings. she was a reporter for The Islander from about 1993-2000.

She won numerous awards from the Florida Press Association and the Florida Press Club, including a special award for series and several special awards for

Marcia Jeanne Rush, 70, of Bradenton, FL, passed away on June 13, 2023. She was born in Bellevue, Ohio, to Edward and Joyce Rush.

Marcia lived and grew up in Marion and Lima, Ohio, before moving to Cincinnati to attend the University of Cincinnati. She earned a Bachelor and Master’s Degree in Education. She taught school at Cincinnati Public Schools for approximately 30 years

Marcia was preceded in death by her mother, Joyce Rush and brother, David. Marcia is survived by her life companion of 24 years, Pete Frye; father, Edward Rush of Naples, FL and sister, Sheryl (Jerry) Milstead, Wilmington, DE.

In the 70s, Marcia’s interest was skydiving. She was a member of the University of Cincinnati Sport Parachute Club and the Waynesville Ohio Sport Parachute Club, until she broke her ankle on her 25th jump. It was then her interest turned to golf and from then on golf was Marcia’s life. Marcia played in many different leagues and tournaments over the years. She has 7 holes-in-one, 4 of them from the men’s tees. She was a member of Cincinnati Public School Teacher’s League and Cincinnati Lefthander’s League. After moving to Florida, she was a member of Pinebrook Ironwood Golf Club.

She was loved and will be greatly missed by her friends both in Cincinnati and here in Florida.

Brown & Sons Funeral Homes & Crematory 43rd Street Chapel is in charge of arrangements. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations may be made to Alzheimer’s Association or Tidewell Hospice Inc. Condolences may be made to brownandsonsfuneral.com

Lauding WMFR’s lifesavers

West manatee fire rescue commissioners and staff pose June 20 with winners of the district’s Phoenix awards, given to firefighters/paramedics for providing life-saving emergency treatment to people found without a pulse. district staff helped save eight lives over the past year, according to Wmfr deputy chief Jay Johnson. islander Photos: ryan Paice

Milestones

Phoenix award winners from Wmfr’s a shift show off certificates June 20 recognizing their life-saving efforts.

news reporting.

Her love of the island was evident in her community service. In 1990, she helped found the Anna Maria Island Historical Society, serving as director emeritus, board member, recording secretary and archivist.

She loved the rich history of Anna Maria Island and worked tirelessly to help preserve it for visitors and locals alike.

She was honored by the city Anna Maria in 1995 and received a community service award from the West Manatee Fire Rescue District in 2016 and also 2017 Anna Maria Citizen of the Year.

Memorial donations may be made to the Anna Maria Island Historical Society, P.O. Box 4315, Anna Maria, FL 34216. Arrangements were by Shannon Funeral Homes.

Mrs. Copeland is survived by husband of 50 years,

doug; daughters layla and husband Kevin Griffith and Anna maria and husband Norris Nolan iii; grandchildren lily Nolan and George and louis Griffith; sisters Anna Hayden and marilyn Beck; and extended family and friends.

Cops & Courts

Marchman Act case results in potential felony charge

By ryan Paice islander reporter

Holmes Beach police filed a capias request June 8 to the state attorney’s office for a third-degree felony charge against Bradenton resident Chris Burgess, 69, for alleged battery on a law enforcement officer.

The capias request also seeks a first-degree misdemeanor charge against Burgess for allegedly resisting or obstructing law enforcement without violence.

At around 10 p.m. June 8, an officer found Burgess unconscious and slumped over in a wheelchair parked in a handicap spot at the Manatee Public Beach, 4000 Gulf Drive.

The officer noted that Burgess had an open wound on his right leg and feces on the seat of his wheelchair, according to the HBPD report. He also had an open bottle of vodka.

The officer woke Burgess, who “became belligerent and uncooperative.”

Another officer arrived as backup, at which point Burgess attempted to leave the scene.

When the officers held onto his wheelchair, preventing him from leaving, Burgess “made several threats to do harm” to one of them.

Burgess told police he had a heart condition and requested medical assistance, so the officers contacted Manatee County Emergency Medical Services and

Island police reports

Anna Maria

June 15, 100 block of Mangrove Avenue, noise. Manatee County sheriff’s deputies responded to a 1:54 a.m. call concerning loud noise from a residence. Deputies issued a citation for violation of a noise ordinances.

West Manatee Fire Rescue.

Before Ems arrived, the officers began to arrest Burgess for resisting/obstructing law enforcement without violence, as well as a city code violation for possessing an open alcohol container in public.

When an officer began to search Burgess, the man started hitting the officer with an open hand “in what appeared to be an effort to prevent … a search,” and did not stop when asked.

EMS and WMFR units arrived at the scene and assessed Burgess, who they said had an irregular heart rhythm and required treatment.

The officers determined Burgess met the criteria for a Marchman Act due to his condition and “inability to care for himself,” and transferred custody to EMS for transport to HCA Florida Blake Hospital in Bradenton.

An officer filed a capias request for charges against Burgess later the same day.

The request was submitted to the SAO, which will determine if charges will be filed against Burgess.

If convicted, punishment for a third-degree felony charge includes up to five years in prison, five years of probation and a fine of up to $5,000.

punishment for a first-degree misdemeanor include up to one year in prison, one year of probation and a fine of up to $1,000.

June 15, 100 block of Sycamore Avenue, larceny. MCSO deputies responded to a call concerning the theft of a bicycle from the beach. Deputies issued a case number and filed an incident report.

The Manatee County Sheriff’s Office polices Anna Maria.

Bradenton Beach

June 20, 1400 block of Gulf Drive South, trespass. Bradenton Beach police officers and mcsO deputies responded to a call concerning an individual trespassing at Coquina Beach. Because the man had been trespassed multiple times from the area, he was arrested for misdemeanor trespassing and taken to the Manatee County jail.

The Bradenton Beach Police Department polices Bradenton Beach. Cortez

No new reports.

The MCSO polices Cortez.

Holmes Beach

June 14, Manatee Public Beach, 4000 Gulf Drive, attempt to locate. The suicide hotline contacted the Holmes Beach Police Department to report a Bradenton woman called and said she was going to commit suicide by taking pills at the beach. HB pd officers

State drops HB case of deprived use of 911

By ryan Paice islander reporter

Holmes Beach police arrested Tampa resident John Heald, 39, June 10 on a third-degree felony charge for depriving the use of 911.

An officer responded around 4:30 a.m. to an abandoned 911 call and found a woman standing on the balcony of a property in the 300 block of 65th Street.

The officer asked if she had called 911 and she said she had. she told the officer she was in an argument with her husband, Heald, when he became upset and started yelling at her before leaving the house.

The woman said Heald returned after about an hour and their argument resumed, at which point he approached her aggressively, and she threatened to call 911.

When she began dialing the number, Heald allegedly took her phone and threw it to the ground, breaking it.

She told police she left the house and sought help from a neighbor but did not want to press charges.

The officer arrested Heald on probable cause for depriving the use of 911 and transported him to the Manatee County jail, where he was released the same day after posting $1,500 bond.

A third-degree felony charge is punishable, if convicted, by up to five years in prison, five years of probation and a fine of up to $5,000.

However, assistant state attorney Casey Cahall filed a notice of case action June 15 on behalf of the state, declining to pursue the charge against Heald.

The notice states, “This action is taken without prejudice to the right of the state of Florida to resume prosecution on this matter at a future date.”

Following the notice, the court canceled a July 21 arraignment for the case, which was listed as “closed” as of June 16 on the Manatee County Clerk of Court website, records.manateeclerk.com.

searched the beach to no avail. They called her phone. She told police she was at home and hadn’t taken the pills. HBPD contacted the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office to respond to her apartment and conduct a wellness check.

June 14, 7100 block of Gulf Drive, suspicious circumstances. A woman called the HBPD to report two chairs were missing from her back patio. She said she saw two people on the beach using the chairs. Another witness told police she’d also seen the pair dragging the chairs from the property. An officer found and returned the chairs to the property owner, who did not want to press charges.

June 15, 8300 block of Marina Drive, Baker Act evaluation. An officer responded to reports of a man

Island watch

In an emergency, call 911. To report info, call the mcsO Anna maria, 941-708-8899; Bradenton Beach police, 941-778-6311; Holmes Beach police, 941-7085804.

making suicidal threats and found a motorist parked along the road. The man said he had a firearm inside his vehicle but did not want to harm himself. He said he had joked about suicide due to stress. The officer determined the man did not meet the requirements to be taken into police custody under the Baker Act and allowed him to leave. The man allowed the officer to hold onto his firearm, which was placed in storage.

June 17, 4100 block of Fifth Avenue, recovered firearm. An officer responded to reports of a found firearm and met the complainant. she said a cleaning crew found a gun in an upstairs closet at the property and provided it to the officer. The officer placed the firearm in HBpd storage.

June 18, Kingfish Boat ramp, 752 manatee Ave., Baker Act. The suicide hotline contacted the HBPD to report that a woman called and said she had taken pills with the intent to overdose. Two officers found a motorist in a parked vehicle, removed the woman from the vehicle and placed her in police custody under the Baker Act. Manatee County Emergency Medical Services arrived and evaluated the woman, who was transported to HCA Florida Blake Hospital in Bradenton.

June 18, Walgreens, 3200 E. Bay Drive, petit theft. An offi cer saw a man running after a juvenile and approached. The man said the juvenile stole a bottle of vodka. The officer detained the juvenile, who admitted to stealing the liquor. A manager issued a trespass warning to the male juvenile and accepted payment for the stolen bottle in exchange for not pressing charges. The officer contacted the juvenile’s parents and released the juvenile to friends of his parents.

June 18, 6900 block of Holmes Boulevard, Baker

Cops & Courts

Bradenton man sentenced to time served in BB burglary case

A Bradenton man was released from the Manatee County jail June 20 after his sentence for a felony burglary in Bradenton Beach was deemed served.

Levi Oxendine, 24, had been in jail since his arrest March 30, 2022.

Oxendine was arrested in Bradenton Beach after a police officer observed Oxendine riding a bicycle with another bicycle balanced on top of the handlebars.

Suspecting the bicycles were stolen, the Bradenton Beach officer signaled with sirens and attempted to stop Oxendine, who dumped the extra bike and pedaled away.

A chase ensued, ending with Oxendine’s apprehension and the impounding of both bicycles.

Oxendine, at the time of the arrest, had burglary tools and drug paraphernalia in his possession.

In April, he pleaded no contest to burglary of an unoccupied structure.

His sentencing was June 20, when 12th Judicial

Act. An officer responded to reports of a suicide attempt and found an unconscious woman being treated by EMS. The woman’s mother told police she found her daughter attempting to hang herself and was able to stop her. The officer placed the daughter in police custody under the Baker Act and EMS transported her to HCA Florida Blake Hospital in Bradenton.

HBPD polices Holmes Beach.

Streetlife is based on incident reports and narratives from the BBPD, HBPD and MCSO.

Circuit Judge Frederick Mercurio gave Oxendine credit for time served and authorized his release from the county jail.

Time served indicates a sentence deemed to be satisfied by the defendant’s previous time spent in custody while awaiting trial.

— robert anderson

New to the district

Brooks Larkin, left, Zachary Younce and Zackary misiura raise their hands June 20 for their oaths of office as new hires at West manatee fire rescue, which provides service on anna maria island. islander Photo: ryan Paice

Local church leaders push for affordable housing

By ryan Paice islander reporter

The cost of housing — including on Anna Maria Island — is rising.

That’s why the Stronger Together Reaching Equality Across Manatee organization’s push for affordable housing is a top priority this year.

sTrEAm is a nonprofit that consists of 15 interfaith congregations across Manatee County and makes annual requests to local leaders to support initiatives.

For fiscal 2023-24, STREAM members asked the county commission to pursue the addition of 1,000 affordable housing units for people making 80% area median income or less.

For a household of one, 80% area median income in the county would be about $48,000, and about $69,000 for a household of four.

George Kruse, the only county commissioner who attended STREAM’s May 8 meeting, pledged to support the cause. He also supported the nonprofit’s call for 500 affordable housing units last year.

Two STREAM members — the Rev. Matthew Grunfeld of the Episcopal Church of the Annunciation in Holmes Beach, and Barbara Ehren of the Manatee Unitarian Universalist Fellowship in Bradenton — told The Islander June 15 about the need for affordable housing in the area.

Grunfeld said the county is 11,000 affordable housing units short of what’s needed to house its current population.

He acknowledged it will be a challenge to add affordable housing throughout the county, especially on the island, where land is at a premium and many property owners have little incentive over hosting vacation rental units.

Nevertheless, Grunfeld and Ehren said affordable housing needs to be addressed on the island.

They said island residents are getting priced out by vacation rental activity and many island-based businesses are struggling to retain local employees who can’t afford to live in the area.

“All the people that make Anna Maria Island be the destination people want to come to — we can’t do it without them,” Grunfeld said. “I’ve heard stories of people who commute into Manatee County from Port Charlotte and closer to Tampa because they can’t afford to live here.”

“Even if they go off the island, they can’t fi nd places to live,” Ehren added. “It’s a major issue.”

Grunfeld encouraged the county to explore changes to zoning procedures, tax incentives and impact fees to incentivize local developers to create affordable housing units over other ventures.

“We’re trying to get our local officials to address the issue and create policies and practices around that,” he said. “Those are all things they can really easily do if they have the will to do it.”

Ehren added that part of the challenge in adding affordable housing was due to the county’s unwillingness to invest its money into the endeavor.

Both Ehren and Grunfeld said they were lucky to live on the island, where property values have spiked in recent years.

Grunfeld, who lives in a church-provided rectory, said he wouldn’t be able to live on the island otherwise.

Ehren said she purchased her Holmes Beach home in 2016 but would not be able to afford it now due to increased property values.

“Those of us who live here are concerned about these issues because there are people who we know who are affected by it,” Ehren said. “But we are as concerned about our sisters and brothers across the county as we are about the people who live across the street from us on the island.”

About

The nonprofit isn’t solely focused on affordable housing.

Another STREAM priority is for the county to implement an adult pre-arrest diversion program to issue civil citations for minor infractions, such as traffic violations, instead of arrests.

Every year, the nonprofit discusses new priorities and annual requests from county officials.

People can learn more about STREAM and how to get involved at its website, streammanatee. org.

RoadWatch

Eyes on the road

• City center in Holmes Beach: Work on the city’s project near the intersection of Gulf and Marina drives is not concluded. Traffic patterns can change. For the latest, check the city’s page on Facebook.

Also, Manatee County’s work on a force main project continues in the city center area. As of June 26, the status was “The contractor is preparing to lay new asphalt just north of the business district.” For the latest, go to amiprojects.io.

• Gulf Drive in Bradenton Beach : Manatee County is relocating and replacing sewer lines along Gulf Drive from Sixth Street South to 11th Street South, as well as on side streets. For the latest, go to amiprojects.io.

• Anna Maria Island Bridge in Holmes Beach: Work on the bridge to replace a broken water main involves changing the traffic pattern. crews will work 7 a.m.-5:30 p.m. through June 30 on repairs, requiring a lane closure. Further lane closures may be required “in the coming weeks,” according to a news release from Manatee County.

For more, go online to swflroads.com

— Lisa neff

Pure

grunfeld ehren

Holmes Beach planners recommend bank rezone denial

By ryan Paice islander reporter

A request to rezone the defunct Bank of America property in Holmes Beach is moving forward to a second and potentially final public hearing.

But it won’t be going with the city planning commission’s blessing, which voted 3-2 June 14 to recommend denial of an ordinance that would rezone the defunct bank property at 699 Manatee Ave. from Commercial-1 to C-2.

Jim McIntire and Dana Krupa voted in support of the ordinance.

The planning commission is a seven-member advisory board that reviews proposed ordinances for consistency with the comprehensive plan.

Bob Bolus of Bolus Truck Parts and Towing Services purchased the property from Bank of America in 2019 for $1,025,600 and the building has remained vacant since.

The property is zoned for the C-1 district, which allows for low-intensity commercial uses such as office spaces.

The city’s C-2 zone allows for higher-intensity commercial uses, such as retail spaces or restaurants, in addition to the same uses allowed in C-1 zoned properties.

City commissioners voted 3-2 vote last year to approve a similar request for at 503 Manatee Ave., where a defunct Regions Bank was rezoned from C-1 to C-2 to allow for a Publix Super Market pharmacy and liquor store.

The commission also voted 3-2 in January to approve a first reading for Bolus’ rezone request, sending it forward to the planning commission for review.

Commissioners Dan Diggins and Terry Schaefer voted “no.”

Chad Minor, the city’s planning and zoning administrator, said June 14 that Bolus’ request complied with the comprehensive plan and met all criteria required to rezone the property, and city staff recommended its approval.

Misty Servia, a former county commissioner and an urban planner from Sarasota-based Planner on Call, told the planning commission on behalf of her client, Bolus, that he was seeking the rezone because there has been little to no interest from prospective buyers in using the property as office space.

Servia added that any future use of the property

would require a commission-approved site plan.

Planning commissioners expressed concern with approving a rezone before knowing what the property’s use.

City attorney Erica Augello told planning commissioners that they could not factor the uncertain future use of the property into their criteria for consideration.

“Would it be better if it was maybe the other way? I don’t know, but legally speaking, they have a right to have the rezoning and you have to determine whether or not it meets the criteria without knowing what it’s possibly going to be,” Augello said.

Planning commissioners also voiced concern about increasing traffic to the area by rezoning the property for higher intensity uses.

“Traffic is backed up all the time both ways on Manatee,” Krupa said. “My only concern is, my gosh, what kind of business is going to go in there that might draw more people?”

“I think the worst-case scenario is going to be a lot worse than you can imagine,” he added. “I think we’re kind of putting the cart before the horse.”

Bolus said he has spent years and money to restore and maintain the property since he purchased it and was upset Publix was granted a C-1 to C-2 rezone for a former bank while his hadn’t gone anywhere.

“I don’t want to be in an adversarial position with anybody,” Bolus said. “I want to be part of the community. … I would ask for your consideration tonight to all move forward in the same direction.”

He added that the city would be able to address concerns while reviewing a site plan for a future use.

Krupa said Bolus addressed many of his concerns and, despite remaining worries about traffic, moved to approve a recommendation for the ordinance.

Planning commissioner Jim McIntire seconded the motion, which failed.

There was no public comment.

The planning commission will meet next at 5 p.m.

Wednesday, July 5, at city hall, 5801 Marina Drive. The meeting will be live streamed via the city’s website, holmesbeachfl.org.

Ongoing litigation

In the meantime, a lawsuit between defendant Bolus Truck Parts & Towing Service and plaintiffs Shawn Kaleta and AMI Welcome Center LLC is over a sales contract that fell apart in 2021.

Kaleta offered to purchase the property for $2.5 million on behalf of assignee, AMI Welcome Center LLC, but Bolus pulled the deal during closing.

Kaleta and Ami Welcome center filed a civil complaint in July 2021 and amended it in August 2021.

The complaint alleges that “Bolus materially breached the contract by failing or refusing to execute and deliver closing documents and by failing or refusing to discharge the judgment at or prior to closing in accordance with paragraph 9 of the contract.”

The complaint states that AMI Welcome Center llc executed a loan to finance the purchase and has incurred fees and interest on the borrowed funds.

Despite the litigation, Bolus’ request to rezone the property from C-1 to C-2 is legal since 12th Circuit Judge Charles Sniffen ruled Feb. 22 to dismiss the plaintiffs’ motion for a temporary injunction to enforce status quo of the property. The injunction would have enjoined the city from “entering any order or rendering any approval for rezoning of the property at issue during this litigation.”

There hasn’t been much action in the case since the Feb. 22 hearing.

Bolus’ attorney, David Blum, of Seminole-based david Blum p.A., filed a subpoena duces tecum may 16 calling the parties to produce documents within 30 days relating to the matter.

That includes communications between involved parties, files of the proposed transaction and any currently held deposits or funds related to the failed deal.

Center gets in the sports groove, plus horseshoes, golf

By Kevin P. cassidy islander reporter

The 11-14 age division soccer provided the action in the gym at the Center of Anna Maria Island, while the 8-10 division enjoyed a week off.

TDs, while also adding a 2-point conversion. Derrick carey finished with seven flag pulls and an interception while Tim Holly added a sack for a safety to lead the defense.

Jonathan Soultatos threw for a TD and ran for another to lead Sandbar, which received a TD catch from Zachary routh and a 2-point conversion from Ramon Guerrero IV in the loss.

added a TD reception and an interception on defense. Tuna McCracken threw a pair of TD passes to lead Solid Rock, which received a touchdown grab and an extra point from Connor Ludwig and Evelyn Long in the loss.

KRC news

cassidy

It’s early in the season but Solid Rock Construction is on top of the 8-10 division standings with a 1-0 record, followed by AMI Dolphin Tours and Intentional Resilient Intuitive, which are both 0-0-1. Progressive Cabinetry completes the standings at 0-1.

The standings are tight in the 11-14 division, with Coastline West Team holding a narrow lead at 1-0-1, just ahead of Island Vacation Properties and Moss Builders, which are 1-1-0. Solid Rock Construction completes the standings at 0-1-1.

Action June 19 saw Coastline West cruise to a 9-0 victory over island Vacation properties in the first game behind five goals from david Zupa and three goals from Cayson Travis. Grady Sandhoff chipped in a goal and Blake Brower made 15 saves to earn the shutout victory.

Island Vacation Properties received 16 saves from Jimmy Melichar and 13 saves from Alonzo Valle.

Moss Builders edged Solid Rock Construction 4-2 in the second game of the night. Magness Rollins and Mason Moss scored two goals each to lead Moss Builders, which received 10 saves from Miles Moss in the victory.

Mckenna Darak and Wes Saxon each had a goal and an assist for the Solid Rock offense, while Austin Guess finished with 11 saves in the loss.

Center football heats up

After two weeks of action in the summer adult flag football league at the center field, the standings are balanced. Two undefeated teams, two winless teams and four teams have one victory and one defeat.

Luxury Services and Moss Builders are on top with 2-0 records followed by Gulf Drive Cafe, Salty Printing, Sandbar Restaurant and Solid Rock Construction all at 1-1. Cortez Deep Sea Fishing and Banks Home Lending complete the standings at 0-2.

Action kicked off June 22 with Luxury Services cruising to a 30-14 victory over Sandbar Restaurant. Quarterback Chase Richardson threw three touchdown passes and ran for another, while also chipping in with a 2-point conversion and an interception. Alonzo Lemus added eight catches, including three for

Gulf Drive Cafe steamrolled Banks Home Lending 41-15 as Domimick Otteni connected with four receivers for touchdowns. Otteni, who ran for a TD and scored a 2-point conversion connected with Dallas Buchholz, Jacob Ferda, Staven Pavina and Kiatrell Zachery to lead Gulf drive cafe in the victory.

Cruz Rodriguez threw touchdown passes to Juan Vega and Joseph Vigil for Banks Home Lending, which received an extra point from Sequil Marintez and a sack for a safety from don uffinger in the loss.

The third game of the night was an offensive shootout that ended with Salty Printing hanging on for a 36-33 victory over Cortez Deep Sea Fishing. Quarterback Zaon Williams had a huge night, throwing three TD passes and adding two more rushing TDs. Joey Carder, Jose Perez and Brandon Rolland each had a TD grab, while Andrew proctor finished with six catches including an extra point and a 2-point conversion.

Matt Manger threw two touchdown passes and ran for another and Anthony Mannino threw for a TD and added a TD reception to lead Cortez Deep Sea Fishing. Mannino also added a pick six for Cortez Fishing, which also received TD grabs from Johnny Sevier and Jessie Skipper, who also added a sack for a safety in the loss.

The last game of the night saw Moss Builders edge Solid Rock 20-14 behind three TD passes from Ryan Moss, including two to Greg Moss. Isaiah Lambert

Golfers at the Key Royale Club in Holmes Beach teed off June 19 with the men’s nine-hole modifiedStableford system match. The foursome of Ken Nagengast, Gary Razze, Ron Vandeman and Terry Schaefer finished at plus-2 for a four-way tie for first place.

The Key Royale women took to the course June 20 and played a nine-hole individual-low-net match in two flights. Jenny Huibers and Terry Westby both fired 1-over-par 33s to finish in a tie for first place in Flight A. Flight B was similar with Jana Samuels and sue Wheeler both carding 2-over-par 34s to tie for first in the flight.

Rain closed the course June 22, canceling the weekly scramble.

Horseshoe news

Horseshoe action June 21 was short and sweet after Tim Sofran and Tom Farrington forged the lone 3-0 pool play record and were the day’s outright champs.

Two teams earned 3-0 records in pool play during June 24 horseshoe action and settled things in a playoff. The team of Sofran and Bob Baker cruised to a 21-11 victory over Billy Silver and Farrington to earn the day’s bragging rights.

Play gets underway at 9 a.m. Wednesdays and Saturdays at the Anna Maria pits. Warmups begin at 8:45 a.m., followed by random team selection.

There is no charge to play and everyone is welcome.

Stocking up

mote marine Laboratory scientists, supporters and photographers wade into Phillippi creek on Sarasota Bay June 22 to release 1,800 red drum, part of an ongoing partnership with Salt Strong to boost the fish population in the bay. about 18,000 more fish will be released this summer in regional waters. BeLoW: a red drum is released June 22 in Phillippi creek in Sarasota. red drum is one of florida’s most popular sportfish and plays an important role in drawing recreational anglers to the state.

Snook, redfish, trout, mango’ snapper round out June fishing

By capt. danny Stasny islander reporter

Despite having to dodge some pop-up thunderstorms, Anna Maria Island anglers are finding the inshore bite to be good.

Although the mighty tarpon are still calling folks to complete their bucket list.

With water temperatures reaching the mid 80s, catch-and-release snook fishing is the best inshore bite.

Whether on the flats around mangroves and oyster bars or along the shorelines of the gulf beaches and in the passes, the linesiders are accommodating to anglers of all skill levels.

using live bait — shiners or pinfish — works well to get the popular fish to bite.

if live bait fishing isn’t your thing, artificials will work.

When fishing around piers or along the beaches, the Yo-Zuri crystal minnow can be deadly. On the flats, soft plastics on a jighead or topwater plugs will get the job done.

When using lures, don’t expect to catch the numbers of fish you would when using live bait, but the enjoyment of figuring out how to trick snook with a lure is a real reward.

With an influx of hatch bait showing up in Tampa Bay, many anglers are gearing up for a mangrove snapper party.

it’s time to break out the 15-pound fluorocarbon leader and size-4 hooks to trick the spooky fish to take a bait. Anchoring over wrecks and reefs and chumming is effective when targeting snapper. As they frolic in the chum, they become less wary of being caught and will take a small shiner without close inspection. And with a light leader and small hook you can find your way to a limit of fish before you know it.

You may attract mackerel in the chum, so go prepared with plenty of hooks and patience. A light fluorocarbon leader and a number-4 hook is no match for the razor-sharp teeth of the macks.

If the macks are too much to handle, instead of free-lining baits to the snapper on the surface in the chum — try bottom fishing. There could be more on the bottom.

On my Just Reel charters, I am seeing plenty of snook reeled to the boat for a quick trophy photo and

tom robinson, visiting anna maria island from cincinnati, shows off a slot-sized redfish that ate a live pilchard offered by robinson June 19 while on a charter fishing trip with capt. david White of anna maria charters.

then released into the water. Both visiting and local anglers enjoy the steady action of catching this hardfi ghting fi sh. With drag-screaming runs toward the mangroves and acrobatic jumps into the air as they attempt to throw the hook, the fish are and always will be a crowd-pleaser.

After getting worn out on snook, my clients are enjoying targeting redfish along the mangrove shorelines. Casting live shiners or fresh-cut chunks of pinfish works well to lure the elusive fish from their hiding places among the roots of mangroves.

Lastly, spotted seatrout are rounding out the bite and the coolers. Fishing deeper grass flats is resulting in numerous catches.

Capt. David White is working the inshore waters of Tampa Bay as numerous days of west winds curtailed long ventures offshore into the Gulf of Mexico.

While inshore, White is enjoying catch-and-release snook action when using live shiners as bait. Casting shiners around mangrove shorelines and oyster beds is resulting in explosive action as the hungry snook devour the baits on the surface.

For anglers wishing to take a fish home for dinner, White is turning them onto redfish and spotted seatrout, as well as mangrove snapper.

The technique for catching reds is similar to targeting snook. Mangroves edges — where oyster bars exist — is great territory to have a chance of hooking

Brock Loschen, visiting anna maria island from royal, illinois, gets help from capt. david White to show off his June 22 tarpon catch and secure a trophy photo. the fish took a live threadfin herring and weighed in the 50lb range.

a redfish. White also is finding reds along some of the sandy beaches in the Gulf of Mexico.

For the trout, deeper grass flats are producing action. And on some occasions, mangrove snapper are inhabiting the same areas, resulting in some nice fillets for dinner.

Targeting snapper around inshore wrecks and reefs is producing a bite.

Jim Malfese, although still out of work due to an injury, is managing to visit the Rod & Reel Pier to enjoy being out on Tampa Bay. And while he’s out there, he’s reporting anglers are catching a variety of fi sh, including mangrove snapper, redfi sh, spanish mackerel and catch-and-release snook. For most of the species, live shrimp is working well. The snapper and reds are responding nicely to such offerings and even a few snook are taking shrimp.

For the macks, anglers using jigs or silver spoons are getting results, and these lures can attract other migratory fish, such as jack crevalle and ladyfish. Send high-resolution photos and fishing reports to fish@islander.org.

Stasny

capt. david White maneuvers a 10-foot bull shark that ate a cut jack crevalle June 23. the shark was caught by Brock Loschen — who had “the hot hand the last two days,” according to White, who added, we’re “taking him to the casino tonight!”

Nesting notes

By Lisa Neff

Leave no trace

The Fourth of July fireworks show from the Green Bridge on the riverfront in Bradenton and Palmetto might produce some oohs and aahs.

Same for the Independence Eve display at Bradenton’s LECOM Park.

But fireworks on the island beaches?

There is no permitted show this year and individuals shooting fireworks on the beach could hear some uh-ohs and ughs.

Fireworks that propel or explode are prohibited without a permit.

They also can pose a threat to sea turtles and other marine life and for critters and birds on the shore.

remnants of fi reworks become litter — pieces of plastic, paper and metals that can be ingested, resulting in loss of nutrition, internal injury, intestinal blockage, starvation and death.

The Islander, ahead of the holiday, checked in with Kristen Mazzarella, executive director of Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring.

The Islander: AMI loves a beach-going holiday and a big one is coming up: The Fourth of July. Will you be out here on the holiday?

Kristen Mazzarella: Turtles don’t take holidays so we will definitely be on patrol over the holiday. in addition, AMITW plans on participating in the Anna Maria Island Privateers Independence Day Parade. So watch for our floats in the processional!

The Islander: What kind of preparations are being made ahead of the holiday? Are you working with enforcement officers in the cities about any issues?

KM: It will be turtle patrol as usual and we are always communicating with law enforcement and code enforcement about any issues that arise that threaten

sea turtles.

All our nests are marked with yellow stakes, flagging tape and signs designating them as protected turtle nests.

With more people on the beach, we ask that the public respect the posted areas and give sea turtles space.

Keep the beaches clean, dark and flat and follow the do’s and don’ts:

Do

• if you encounter a nesting turtle, remain quiet and observe from a distance;

• shield or turn off outdoor lights that are visible on the beach from may-October;

• close drapes/blinds after dark and remove all beach furniture;

• Fill in holes that may entrap adult sea turtles and

Litter is piled on the beach following a July 4 celebration in anna maria. Holmes Beach is coordinating a July 5 beach cleanup and calling on volunteers to come out. But the hope is beachgoers will leave no litter to collect. islander file

hatchlings on their way to the water;

• place trash in its proper place.

Do not:

• Approach nesting turtles or emerging hatchlings, make noise or shine lights at turtles;

• use flashlights, cellphones, flash photography or fishing lamps on the beach;

• Encourage a turtle to move while nesting or pick up hatchlings that have emerged;

• use fireworks on the beach.

The Islander: In the past, there have been a lot of personal fireworks set off on the beaches. What threats do fireworks pose to sea turtles and shorebirds?

Km: The light from fi reworks can disorient or confuse nesting sea turtles and hatchlings, preventing them from finding their way to the ocean.

Both light and noise from fi reworks can spook nesting shorebirds from their nests and scatter chicks, leaving them open to predators and being separated from their parents.

The trash from the fireworks can be a danger to all animals on the beach.

The Islander: Will AMITW be involved with a postholiday cleanup on the beaches?

KM: Whether part of an organized cleanup or just conducting our daily patrols, AMITW is always picking up trash we find on the beach.

Keeping the beach clean is one of the many things we do to maintain a trash-free environment for both animals and beachgoers.

For more information about AMITW, call the nonprofit at 941-301-3484, email info@islandturtlewatch. com or go online to islandturtlewatch.com.

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

We’re Celebrating Again

mazzarella

Photo: Lisa neff

as of June 24, amitW had identified 256 nests, including 5 green nests, and 290 false crawls.

Back to the beach

“Quick, what’s your favorite beach movie?”

Answering such important questions on a whim causes anxiety.

“‘Shag,’” I replied to keep a coffee conversation going and immediately called a do-over. “I mean ‘Jaws.’”

Someone said “Cast Away,” another said, “Gidget.”

How varied are the choices.

By Lisa Neff neff

And how varied are the beaches depicted in the films, a Southern resort, a New England island, a deserted island and a surfer’s haven.

Quick, what’s your favorite beach?

If you live on Anna Maria Island or ever resided on the island, there’s a good chance your favorite beach is within walking distance of the place you called home.

My favorite spot, for example, is a quiet space north of the Sandbar Restaurant in Anna Maria near the Sycamore Avenue access and across Gulf Drive from an apartment I lived in for more than a decade.

But when friends and family visit, we generally head to Holmes Beach and the county-owned Manatee Public Beach.

When I came to the area for a job interview in 2005, the visit included an area tour. We drove from

downtown Bradenton west on Manatee Avenue past all the familiar fast-food spots, along the Palma Sola Causeway and over the drawbridge to arrive at “the beach” — Manatee Public Beach.

The sun was setting and the parking lot had begun to clear out.

We didn’t linger.

I knew I’d be back.

In my family, Manatee Public Beach is known as “Manatee Pancake Beach,” because of the popular menu item, and “the pink beach,” because that was the color of the concession building back in the aught years.

My family likes the public beach for its conveniences, amenities and security — ie, parking, pancakes, cold beverages, music and lifeguards.

The brouhaha over a proposed parking garage at Manatee Public Beach has me thinking about angles, perspectives and issues, as well as inquiring about the history of the beach.

Longboat Key prepares to dredge Beer Can Island

By robert anderson islander reporter

After a wait brought on by Mother Nature, Longboat Key is getting ready to move some sand around at Beer Can Island.

In June 2022, the town performed an emergency dredge to reopen access to Canal 1A near Beer Can Island. The work was done as part of the town’s sandspit management, which Longboat Key began planning for in 2020.

The canal, which spans a narrow passage between the private Lands End dock, 7300 Gulf of Mexico Drive, and the Longboat Pass Bridge, was widened to allow tidal flushing and boat traffic.

During the emergency dredge, 1,500 cubic yards of beach-compatible sand was removed from the waterway.

But now, Longboat Key officials say, sand is accreting in the canal faster than expected.

Town manager Howard Tipton spoke with The Islander June 21 about the project and impediments: “The challenge with beach sand is that it never stays where you want it to stay.”

Tipton said the town got permits from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers for the dredge late last year but ran into a delay finding a contractor. That delay extended the timeline for the start into the 2023 shorebird and sea turtle nesting seasons.

Shore bird nesting season runs Feb. 15-Sept. 1, while sea turtle nesting season runs May 1-Oct. 31.

Tipton said a flock of least terns nested on the spit of sand, followed by a sea turtle nesting on the newly accreted shoreline.

The terns have split from the spit, but the turtle nest remains to hatch.

Tipton said the town worked with Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium to obtain a relocation permit for any new nests this summer, but the existing nest

an aerial photograph shows what was the manatee county Public Beach — now manatee Public Beach — in the 1950s before construction of the anna maria island Bridge on manatee avenue. the image is one of the earliest depicting the beach in the manatee county Public Library System archives.

Fill a cup with sand and pour it through your fingers. All those grains of sand could represent all the angles, perspectives and issues to explore with Manatee Public Beach and past, present and future changes. so i’ve been sketching out topics for columns, figuring I have plenty of time to work through a series.

After all, even though the governor signed Rep. Will Robinson Jr.’s bill, a garage isn’t going up overnight.

The city of Holmes Beach will take legal action. And Manatee County is a long way from a political feud to construction — there’s no reflection of any intent to build a garage in the pending 2023-24 capital improvements plan. for example.

And federal, state and county elections are coming up in 2024.

Hmm.

Quick, do you think the public beach parking garage proposal will factor in the elections?

To contact Lisa Neff, email lisa@islander.org.

must hatch before dredging can begin.

“The nest is due to hatch between July 3 and July 23,” Charlie Mopps, assistant public works director, said June 21. “As soon as it’s hatched, they are going to start dredging.”

Mopps said the project involves removing the spit of sand that stretches from Longboat Pass Bridge to the Lands End dock, returning Beer Can Island to conditions like those seen in aerial photos from 2017.

The sand will be pumped to the northern tip of Beer Can, in front of sand retention groins installed in 2019.

Mopps said the site work should take roughly 60 days and will be completed by Coastal Dredging Inc. of Hammond, Louisiana.

The project will cost $1.4 million.

“It’s basically funded by the town,” Mopps said. “The town is going to seek reimbursement from the state through the beaches and shores funding at the Florida Department of Environmental Protection. They typically give us up to 27% of the cost of the funding for a project.”

The DEP Beaches Funding Assistance Program specializes in financial assistance to local governments for the planning and implementing of beach and inlet management project.

Now all the town needs is for a nest to hatch and hatchlings to find their way to the sea.

a private dock June 22 shows encroaching sand. islander Photo: robert anderson

ITEMS FOR SALE

oLiVe oiL from my farm in greece. Wine bottle size (750ml), $19. delivered to your ami address. 203-942-8399.

LateraL tWo-draWer file cabinet, oak veneer, great condition. Locking, 29-by-20 inches. $250. 941-504-0526.

“tHe PooL cLeaner,” $100, 30a marine power cord, 50-foot, $70, 30a/50a pigtail, $100. 941-761-9236.

crafting BooKS: 15 for $20. 941-7828381, after 2 p.m.

uSed PooL fiLter system, Pentair, core fi lter, $49, beautiful faux fi replace, $49 or best offer, 941-778-5542.

Paninni maKer: cuiSinart, stainlesssteel, like new, $45. 941-920-2494.

Sandy’s Lawn Service Inc.

Paradise Improvements 941.792.5600

AdoptA-Pet

Oh, those eyes!

Bella is an 8-year-old mixed-breed lovebug! She’s neutered and has all vaccinations — ready to meet her new family! Call Lisa Williams at 941-3452441 or visit The Islander office in Holmes Beach. And for more about pet adoption, visit moonraceranimalrescue.com.

SPonSored BY

ANSWERS TO JUNE 28 PUZZLE

ITEMS FOR SALE Continued

cHair: BLacK, Soft cushion $15/ each and office chair, white, $10. Side tables, brown with glass top. 2/$20. 941920-2494.

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

FREEBIE ITEMS FOR SALE

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

ANNOUNCEMENTS

SPeciaLiZing in BacHeLorette parties. call michael Sue Scott. intuitive reader. 941726-1234. www.michaelsuescott.com

GARAGE SALES

moVing SaLe: 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. friday, June 30. furniture (1-2 years old). 8316 marina drive, Holmes Beach. 941-224-9311.

PETS

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

TRANSPORTATION

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

BOATS & BOATING

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

SuncoaSt Bottom Painting: Professional bottom painting. mobile. call 941704-9382.

tWo KaYaKS for sale: epic V6 tourer (siton-top kayak) that’s fast and stable; 16-feet long, 23-inches wide and only 35.3 lbs. with a rudder to improve tracking. also includes Werner Kalliste carbon paddle (very light), kayak stand and cart, $2,000. necky manitou (sit-inside kayak) thats stable; 14.4-feet long, 24-inches wide and 49 lbs. with a retractable skeg to improve tracking. also includes Werner Kalliste carbon paddle (very light), kayak stand and cart. $500. call tom, 941-779-1957.

FISHING

fun and fiSH: Skiff rental. 24-foot carolina skiff. Live bait and fi shing equipment included upon request. call 941-704-9382.

HELP WANTED

Part-time retaiL position. unique compensation can be discussed. easy working environment. employee discount. email us at workonpine@gmail.com

SeeKing candidate intereSted in sales of health and wellness, high-technology equipment. excellent commission, training. residual income potential. full or parttime. retirees welcomed to respond. call or text, 724-290-9800.

more ads = more readers in the islander.

HELP WANTED Continued

noW Hiring HandYman: full-time professional services. $18 an hour and up, based on experience. call JayPros, 941962-2874.

rePorter Wanted: full- to part-time. Print media, newspaper experience required. apply via email with letter of interest to news@islander.org.

KIDS FOR HIRE

need an aduLt night out? call maty’s Babysitting Services. i’m 16, love kids and have lots of experience. references upon request. 618-977-9630.

KidS for Hire ads are free for up to three weeks for island youths under 16 looking for work. ads must be placed in person at the islander office, 315 58th St. Suite J, Holmes Beach.

SERVICES

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

cLeaning: Vacation, conStruction, residential, commercial and windows. Licensed and insured. 941-756-4570.

PreSSure WaSHing, PaVer sealing, driveway, roof, fence, pool area. also, window cleaning. Licensed and insured. 941-5653931.

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

comPanion/HomemaKer: Honest and reliable offering help with running errands, grocery shopping, house sitting, pet and plant care, light cooking/cleaning, transportation. references available and licensed. call Sherri, 941-592-4969.

aPi’S drYWaLL rePair: i look forward to servicing your drywall repair needs. call 941524-8067 to schedule an appointment.

ProfeSSionaL WindoW cLeaning: residential, commercial, free estimates. “We want to earn your business!” 207-8526163.

airPort rideS: SaraSota, St. Pete, tampa. call/text, Vita, 941-376-7555.

Hangin’ on ami: We hang artwork, mirrors, tVs, etc. furniture assembly. Local references available. 941-720-3126.

iSLand LigHtScaPeS & SecuritY: Landscape lighting and home security installation. Quality service by island residents. 941-7203126.

extra HeLP at home or on vacation. organization, cleaning, sitting, errands. very competent. gemma, 805-570-1415.

rainY daY at the beach? Sunburned? Have fun inside. tarot card reading for individuals or groups. Phone or video by St. Louis’ top psychic, cBS radio’s #1 fortune teller. as seen on mtV and nickelodeon. $50 for 15 minutes. call or text, Julia gordonBramer, 314-517-0158.

SERVICES Continued

PrioritY gueSt HoSting By Bettina. excellent five-star ratings for over five years. Vacation rental hosting. call me, 240-4645898.

rideS near and far, car transport. Based in Palmetto. 715-292-8692.

cLean tecH moBiLe detailing. at your location. cars, boats, rVs. call or text Billie for an appointment. 941-592-3482.

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

BeacH SerVice air conditioning, heat, refrigeration. commercial and residential service, repair and/or replacement. Serving manatee county and the island since 1987. for dependable, honest and personalized service, call Bill eller, 941-795-7411. cac184228.

LAWN & GARDEN

connie’S LandScaPing inc. residential and commercial. full-service lawn maintenance, landscaping, cleanups, hauling and more! insured. 941-778-5294.

BarneS LaWn and Landscape LLc. design and installation, lawn and landscape services, tree trimming, mulch, rock and shell. 941-705-1444. Jr98@barneslawnandlandscape.com.

coLLinS LandScaPe LigHting: outdoor lighting, landscaping, irrigation services and maintenance. 941-279-9947. mJc24373@ gmail.com.

SHeLL deLiVered and spread. Hauling all kinds of gravel, mulch, topsoil with free estimates. call Larry at 941-795-7775, “shell phone” 941-720-0770.

mP LaWn maintenance now accepting new clients. call dante, 941-730-9199. mp@ mplawnmaintenance.com

HOME IMPROVEMENT

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

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

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

iSLand HandYman: i live here, work here, value your referral. refinish, paint. Just ask. JayPros. Licensed/insured. references. call Jay, 941-962-2874.

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

Screening SerViceS: replace your old or ripped window, door or porch screens. many screen types available. retired veteran here to serve our community! free estimates, call Lane, 941-705-5293.

HOME IMPROVEMENT Continued

caLL HYdro cLean. full-service pressure washing, sealing. Pavers, travertine and natural stone. Window washing too, up to three stories. call Jacob, 941-920-2094.

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

RENTALS

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

Perico iSLand Patio home for rent. 3Br/2Ba, 30-day minimum. Privacy fence/ gate, two miles to ami. call or text, 859771-6423.

BeautifuLLY furniSHed, annuaL rental in Beach Harbor club, Longboat Key. 2Br/2Ba with views of the bay, laundry and condo amenities include pool, grill, with both bay and beach access. $200 application required. $3,800 month plus fi rst and last month’s rent and $1,000 deposit. call mike norman realty, 941-778-6696. 3101 gulf drive, Holmes Beach, fL 34217.

SeaSonaL rentaL: HoLmeS Beach. one room studio. Large bathroom, kitchen, bed alcove. Private patio and parking. dec. 15-april 15. no pets, no smoking. total, $8,400. 908-914-1182.

annuaL LeaSe rentaL on anna maria island. 2Br/1Ba, very clean ground-level 1,000-sf home/duplex only steps to gulf beach. Presently unfurnished. $2,350/month, including utilities, heat/ac, trash and water. no smoking, no pets. 508-496-8480. williamshomes@yahoo.com

BeacH Life! 55-plus park: 1Br/1Ba. Beach just across the street! furnished, pool, parking, six-month or annual rental. $1,550 month. Vetted by office. no pets. 831-2122606.

WeStBaY Point: Second floor 2Br/2Ba furnished condo. full bay views. no pets, no smoking. $3,200/month, six-month minimum. 847-530-8833.

annuaL LeaSe: anna maria island. in Bradenton Beach on avenue c. Very clean, ground-level 1,000-sf 2Br/1Ba home/ duplex only steps to gulf beach. Presently unfurnished. $1,950/month plus $300/month for electric, heat/ac, trash and water. first, last, security. non-smoking, no pets property. owner, 508-496-8480.

SHort-term furniSHed condos. West Bradenton. 2Br/1Ba. $1,300/month. 2Br/2Ba, $1,800/month. real estate mart, 941-356-1456.

LooKing for an earLY Bird? You can read Wednesday’s classifieds on tuesday at islander.org. and it’s free!

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

cLaSSic goLf courSe home: Panoramic views on a private half-acre lot. House features high ceilings, caged pool, circle drive. minutes to beaches and airport. $659,000. real estate mart, 941-356-1456.

Visitors bureau offers promotional opps on ferry

The Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau is launching promotional opportunities on the planned water taxi between Bradenton and Anna Maria Island.

The “Don’t Miss the Boat” forum for business owners was set for 3-6 p.m. Tuesday, June 27, after The Islander went to press, at the Manatee Performing Arts Center, 502 Third Ave. W., Bradenton.

The Gulf Islands Ferry, funded with county tourist tax dollars, is expected to launch later this summer, perhaps by Labor Day, with stops on the Bradenton riverfront, the city pier in Anna Maria and the Historic Bridge Street Pier and Coquina Beach Bayside in Bra-

denton Beach.

An announcement for the BACVB event said, “Join us to learn about the new Gulf Islands Ferry and an unprecedented opportunity to promote your business to visitors and residents throughout the Tampa Bay region.”

The Anna Maria Oyster Bar, which operates a restaurant at the Bridge Street pier, will be serving margaritas at the event.

For more information, call the BACVB at 941729-9177.

—

Lisa neff

Share

BizCal By Lisa neff

SAVE THE DATE

July 6, 7:30 a.m., Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce’s breakfast at Breakfast at Victoria’s, Holmes Beach. Fee applies. Info and reservations: 941-778-1541.

July 13, 11:30 a.m., AMI Chamber’s luncheon at Pesto Bistro & Wine Bar, Bradenton.

July 12, 11:30 a.m., Manatee Chamber of Commerce’s Headliners luncheon with Sarasota Bradenton International Airport exec, Bradenton. Info and reservation: 941-748-3411.

July 27, 5 p.m., AMI Chamber’s business-card exchange at the office with Your CBD Store, Holmes Beach.

Oct. 21, 10 a.m.-9 p.m., AMI Chamber Bayfest, Anna Maria.

Nov. 5, 11:30 a.m., Manatee Chamber of Commerce Brunch on the Bay, Sarasota.

Send calendar listings to calendar@islander.org.

PropertyWatch

carol Bernard

Island real estate sales

biz” readers. Send details to news@islander.org. Monica Newcomer Coldwell Banker Realtor call/text 941-545-4980 monicanewcomer@aol.com

270 Gladiolus St., Anna Maria, a 1,326 sq ft 2BR/2BA home on a 8,324 sq ft lot built in 1967 sold 5/26/2023 by Rieder to Marrow for $1,630,000, list price $1,695,000.

706 N. Shore Drive, Anna Maria, a 1,412 sq ft 3BR/2BA pool home on a 5,101 sq ft lot built in 1967 sold 5/1/2023 by Lowenberg Trust to Koparanyan for $1,950,000, list price $2,145,000.

835 N. Shore Drive, Anna Maria, a 2,138 sq ft 4BR/3BA pool home on a 4,500 sq ft lot built in 1951 sold 5/26/2023 by Tropicottage LLC to Massarsd for $4,700,000, list price $4,999,000.

2412 Gulf Drive, #123, Bradenton Beach, a 432 sq ft 1BR/1BA Club Bamboo condo built in 1945 sold 5/8/2023 by Equity First Company to Ekal for $450,000, list price $500,000.

3402 Sixth Ave., #1, Holmes Beach, a 900 sq ft 2BR/2BA Fountainhead condo built in 1982 sold 5/31/2023 by Batoff to Titan of Neenah LLC for $575,000, list price $599,000.

6250 Holmes Blvd., #54, Holmes Beach, a 1,536 sq ft 3BR/3BA North Beach Village townhome built in 1992 sold 5/26/2023 by Quickshift USA LLC to Shah for $1,040,000, list price $1,069,000.

6201 Holmes Blvd., Holmes Beach, a 1,822 sq ft 5BR/3BA pool home on a 7,980 sq ft lot built in 1968 sold 5/25/2023 by Cowden Trust to Piccininni for $1,500,000, list price $1,690,000.

303 61st St., #A, Holmes Beach, a 2,326 sq ft 4BR/4BA pool home on a 9,060 sq ft lot built in 2008 sold 5/18/2023 by Munzo to Vanderploeg for $1,975,000, list price $2,000,000.

Compiled by Island Real Estate staff. Island Real Estate can be reached at 941-778-6066, islandreal. com.

Tourism stats: Early Easter shortens ‘season’

By ed Scott islander reporter

Sometimes an increase isn’t really an increase and a decrease isn’t really a decrease.

At least not in the discipline of data.

That, in essence, was the message from Anne Wittine, director of quantitative research for Research Data Services, who supplies tourism data to the Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau and the Manatee County Tourist Development Council.

Wittine began a June 5 presentation before the TDC at the Center of Anna Maria Island in Anna Maria by showing that the county had fewer visitors in April 2023 than in April 2022.

But sometimes what appears bad may have a good explanation, and the key to figuring out what’s happening requires a glance at a calendar.

Easter fell on April 17 in 2022 and on April 9 in 2023. Seasonal visitors who leave Manatee County after that religious holiday probably spent one fewer week here this year than last year.

That’s how Wittine explains the latest numbers.

Year over year, the Bradenton area had about 2% fewer overnight commercial lodging visitors — 97,800 from 99,900 — occupying about 4% fewer room nights — 220,700 from 230,200.

“This is a normal thing,” Wittine said. “We like to talk about normal things. When we see an early Easter, we find that the season compresses.”

“We did see a slight decrease in visitation over last

Does

year but last year we were seeing that extreme peak of pent-up demand as well,” as the country came back from the coronavirus pandemic.

Nevertheless, the county collected nearly 4% more in tourist development taxes — $3.2 million from $3.1 million — in April and these collections had a projected 3.4% increase in economic impact — $143.9 million from $139.1 million — year over year.

“Economic impact is up,” Wittine said. “The visitors that we’re seeing coming are spending more, staying longer.”

Other notes and quotes:

The average daily rate of rooms was up 7.9%, from

$246 in April 2022 to $265 in April this year. Wittine called that increase “signifi cant.” it’s also a 32.1% increase over April 2019.

“Although Memorial Day weekend was extremely strong,” Wittine said. “June and July are looking very good. Reservations are coming in quickly.”

Barbie gummin and nabil esfahani of total Life care explain the health benefits of a Bemer, a device for increased circulation and muscle stimulation. they also demonstrated Bella grace products, offering wellness and beauty from the inside out, for more than 30 members June 22 at the ami chamber of commerce’s Business card exchange — sponsored by total Life care — at the chamber office in Holmes Beach. islander Photo: courtesy amicofc

SANDPIPER

Move-in ready 1BR/1BA updated 55+, bayfront co-op conveniently located just steps to the beach. This lovingly maintained home offers comfortable turnkey furnishings, new mini-split A/Cs, new windows and flooring, updated bath and private lanai with storage. Sandpiper community offers a heated pool, shuffleboard, coin laundry, library, recreation hall and a community dock. $375,000

CORTEZ FISHING VILLAGE

Completely renovated & rebuilt in 2020, 2 BR/1 BA cottage located in the historic fishing village of Cortez, just a half mile to the beach. This adorable cottage offers an open floor plan, spacious kitchen, lush, tropically landscaped grounds, a private backyard and turnkey furnishings. $635,000

WEST OF GULF DRIVE CITY OF ANNA MARIA

Charming, ground-level cottage built in 1930, located west of Gulf Drive in the city of Anna Maria. This cottage features two bedrooms, full and half bath. Just steps to the beach, great restaurants and more. $1,750,000

MIKE NORMAN REALTY EST. 1978

RESORT