The Islander Newspaper E-Edition: Wednesday, Feb. 08, 2023

Cortez businesses, others scrutinize Cortez bridge plans

elizabeth shore, owner of bunny and Pirates bazaar, 12404 cortez road W., cortez, listens to doug Hershey of the Florida department of transportation talk about how the new bridge might impact her business. “i understand that things change and the area is developing and we have to change with it,” she said. “my main concern is how is it going to affect my business and i felt really good to hear that they were doing their best to keep people as intact as they could while they are doing what they need to do for the area. You just have to grow with the times.” islander

Holmes Beach road work eases into home stretch

The $3,001,460.85 project involves improving drainage infrastructure and adding roadway markings, bicycle lanes, sidewalks, crosswalks, street lighting and landscaping to a stretch from the intersection of Gulf and Marina drives to the 5600 block of Marina Drive.

That section of Marina Drive was closed when construction began last September.

Since then, C-Squared has demolished and removed Marina Drive’s old asphalt, installed or improved four stormwater drainage pipeline crossings under Marina Drive, repaved the road and added stretches of new curbing and sidewalks.

The contractor reopened both lanes on Marina in December and has since been working to replace stormwater drainage pipes on the south side of Gulf Drive from Marina Drive to Holmes Boulevard.

By the end of February, the contractor should complete work at Gulf Drive, replace

Uncertainty lingers after state, island officials meet

by ryan Paice islander reporter

The fate of Anna Maria Island’s three cities remains uncertain despite dialogue between the disputing parties.

The three island mayors

— Anna Maria Mayor Dan Murphy, Bradenton Beach Mayor John Chappie and Holmes Beach Mayor Judy Titsworth — met in private Jan. 30 with state Rep. Will Robinson Jr., R-Bradenton, and state Sen. Jim Boyd, R-Bradenton, at Anna Maria City Hall to discuss parking across the island and a study on the potential dissolution or consolidation of the cities.

A nearly three-year long dispute centered around island parking came to a head at the Jan. 12 Manatee County Legislative Delegation meeting when Robinson questioned the number of municipalities needed on the island and called for a study of island governance.

Robinson motioned to commission an Office of Program Policy Analysis and Government Accountability study on Anna Maria Island’s governing structure and to present options to the delegation for the 2024 legislative session.

OPPAGA is a research arm of the Legislature that provides data, research and analysis to assist

budget and policy deliberations.

The delegation unanimously approved Robinson’s motion to seek such a study. Robinson also announced plans to introduce a bill to preempt local regulation of parking for state and county properties.

The bill would override a Holmes Beach ordinance that prohibits multilevel parking facilities within city limits, as well as usurp comp plan limits on building height.

Robinson’s actions sparked an outcry from islanders and their elected officials. The cities mobilized their lobbyists and directed residents to send letters of opposition to the state lawmakers.

Photo: robert anderson

More on the Cortez Bridge forum, page 4.

titsworth murphy

chappie

robinson

boyd

by ryan Paice islander reporter Holmes Beach’s city center project may be nearing completion.

a bird’s eye view looking northwest of the ongoing road work Feb. 2 on gulf drive in Holmes beach’s city center. islander Photo: Jacob merrifield

City engineer Sage Kamiya told The Islander Feb. 2 that Sarasota-based C-Squared was on schedule to complete major roadwork by the end of February.

uncertainty continued From Page 1

As of Feb. 2, neither of Robinson’s bills had been filed for consideration in the state legislative session that opens March 7.

Murphy said he organized the private meeting in an attempt to calm the waters before any actions were set in gear.

Murphy and Titsworth declined The Islander’s request to attend the meeting.

Murphy told The Islander Feb. 2 that he began the 75-minute meeting by asking what it would take from the cities for the legislators to drop the proposed bills.

He said Boyd singled out Titsworth, saying Holmes Beach forced the issue by removing streetside parking along some residential streets in 2020 and then adopting an ordinance prohibiting multilevel parking facilities.

Murphy says he called it “rash” and “out of character” for Boyd and Robinson to pursue consolidation or dissolution because of a dispute over Holmes Beach parking. He asked them to pull the proposal and suggested the cities work to consolidate some services.

Nevertheless, the legislators stressed that the parking issue must be resolved and encouraged Holmes Beach to negotiate parking agreements with churches, as several are within walks to the shore.

They asked Murphy, a member of St. Bernard

Session 2023

March 3: Deadline for filing final drafts of general bills and joint resolutions.

March 7: First day of session — the 91st since statehood.

April 25: Last day for regularly scheduled committee meetings.

May 5: Last day of regular session — if the Legislature completes its work in 60 days.

July 1: Start of the new year for state government, including budgets and new legislation.

Catholic Church, 248 S. Harbor Drive, Holmes Beach, to ask about beach parking at that location. He said church representatives were open to the idea and waiting for a proposal from Holmes Beach.

Previously some island churches said approval hinged on liability and insurance protection.

Murphy said he didn’t succeed in his goal to learn what the cities need to do for Robinson’s proposals to be pulled but said the dialogue was important.

“All the cards are now on the table. I don’t think there is any hidden agenda here. It’s all about parking. That’s the conundrum that needs to be solved,” the Anna Maria mayor said.

Murphy said he wanted to keep the lines of communication open and planned to visit Tallahassee the week beginning Feb. 6 to meet with legislators.

In the meantime, he said, the island mayors were in “lockstep” over the issue.

“All three of us care about the island and our intent is to get Boyd and Robinson to care, too,” Murphy said.

Titsworth told The Islander Jan. 31 that the meeting allowed them to air their grievances but she wasn’t

sure how much it mattered.

“My takeaway is that I’m still not convinced that we made an impact. I’m hoping we did. It wasn’t for a lack of trying,” Titsworth said. “We had a lot to say and we got to say it.”

She added that Holmes Beach was waiting to see if the proposed bills would be filed.

“If the bills get filed, then it just proves that no matter what we do it’s not enough,” Titsworth said. “Holmes Beach, Anna Maria and Bradenton Beach aren’t the real reason people can’t find a parking place. It’s because the county continues to grow. … That’s the reality.”

“We had a very good meeting with our state legislators and the three mayors. Everybody was frank with each other and we’re hopeful of moving the discussion forward in a positive manner for everybody,” Chappie told The Islander Jan. 31.

Neither Boyd nor Robinson’s offices responded to Feb. 1-2 calls from The Islander.

People lounge Feb. 1 at the manatee Public beach, Holmes beach, where manatee county commission chair Kevin Van ostenbridge, r-district 3, proposed building a multilevel parking garage despite the city’s height limitations and prohibitions on such parking garages. islander Photo: ryan Paice

State ethics board dismisses complaint against HBPD chief

by ryan Paice islander reporter

A former Holmes Beach commissioner’s ethics complaint about the police chief was shot down.

The Florida Commission on Ethics found no probable cause to believe former Commissioner Jayne Christenson’s claims that Chief Bill Tokajer violated state statutes by using and/or disclosing information not available to the general public, according to a Feb. 1 report.

Ethics complaints are handled by the commission on a confidential basis until the suspected violator files a request to make it public, or until the case has been concluded.

Without probable cause, the complaint against Tokajer was dismissed and the case file became public record.

Christenson’s complaint against Tokajer began, according to her, with her complaints about the police department budget.

But it is centered around a Nov. 20, 2021, police ride-along she took with Officer Michael Van Horn in which the then-commissioner offered her driver’s license to Van Horn to demonstrate the Driver and Vehicle Information Database, otherwise known as DAVID.

But Christenson’s information in DAVID identified her address as her Bradenton property, and while Van Horn made no remark, Christenson protested, saying the Bradenton address was not her driver’s license address.

Christenson had faced questions from the public surrounding her residency since she first campaigned for a commission seat in 2020, based on the use of her Holmes Beach property as a vacation rental, which she also claimed as her residence.

After his shift, Van Horn reported the apparent dis-

crepancy to Tokajer, who in turn reported it to Mayor Judy Titsworth.

Titsworth tasked then-city attorney Patricia Petruff with investigating the matter, and Petruff found Christenson had maintained proper residency based on the criteria in Holmes Beach election law, despite discrepancies in the mix up.

Christenson’s complaint alleges Tokajer leaked information about the matter to local newspapers.

Her complaint claims Tokajer violated Florida’s misuse of public position statute when, as police chief, he chose to investigate her residency and by utilizing government property to gather related information.

Christenson alleged in her complaint that Tokajer’s actions were “vindictive” retaliation for the commissioner’s outspoken criticism of the police department’s spending during her time in office.

“The chief of police provided this information to Mayor Titsworth with corrupt intent and purpose in order to discredit Commissioner Christenson and subject her to public ridicule. And removal from office as backlash for not supporting his increase in department spending,” the complaint reads.

Tokajer’s response

Tokajer responded to Christenson’s claims in a July 7, 2022, email to the ethics commission, stating that he first brought the situation to public light at a Jan. 4, 2022, commission meeting due to false claims made in an email the previous day by Christenson.

In the Jan. 3 email from Christenson to other city officials, she wrote, “I asked questions about the police budget and took the time to ride in the field with an officer on a Saturday evening for 7 hours. I later found out that the police department used my driver’s license number to gain access to my personal information.”

Van Horn’s body camera video from the ride along —which lacks audio — was reviewed by The Islander. It shows Christenson hand her license twice to the officer and gesturing at the screen as information

appeared.

Tokajer wrote that he did not disclose information on the matter until Christenson “made the existence of a review of her residency a public record” via her email.

He also noted that the police department did not disclose a picture of Christenson’s license. Instead, Christenson attached a copy of her driver’s license with her Dec. 8, 2021, email to the mayor — a public record later reviewed by The Islander.

Tokajer concluded by objecting to Christenson’s claims that his “vindictive actions” were in response to her qualms with the police budget.

“First I will say that I believe I have proven that nothing here was vindictive, malicious, done with corrupt intent or to ridicule for removal from office. I was merely doing my job and passing information along through the proper channels,” Tokajer wrote.

“Commissioner Christenson is not the first commissioner nor mayor that asked hard questions in the 44 years I have been a law enforcement professional nor the 27 years as a law enforcement administrator,”

Q&a 020823

The Islander poll

Last week’s question

by lisa neff

How often do you ride the trolley?

23%. Never.

15%. Hardly ever.

35%. occasionally.

28%. Regularly.

This week’s question

Are you concerned about books in Florida classroom libraries getting covered up or removed?

A. Yes.

B. No.

C. Not sure.

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

tokajer

christenson

DOT forum for Cortez Bridge draws questions, comments

The Florida Department of Transportation forum on the design of a new Cortez Bridge Jan. 31 drew 102 business owners, local officials and curious people to Kirkwood Presbyterian Church in Bradenton.

At the forum — as well as online — the DOT showed its latest renderings for a planned 65-foot fixed-span bridge to replace the drawbridge connecting Cortez and Bradenton Beach.

Manatee County Commissioner Kevin Van Ostenbridge, RepublicanDistrict 3, hosted the event.

“FDOT is committed to the project,” he said. “The project is going to happen. At this point, we need to have all the influence we can over the design, the look of the bridge, as well as the construction process. I have communicated very clearly to FDOT that the community needs the bridge to be closed for the shortest duration possible and I have been assured by FDOT that that is a goal of theirs.”

The project includes the bridge and roadway approaches from Gulf Drive in Bradenton Beach to 123rd Street West in Cortez. The work will span just under a mile of roadway.

The DOT maintains a high bridge will allow greater clearance for large vessels and require less maintenance due to the lack of moving parts typical

connie morrow, head of the cortez bridge aesthetics committee, explains concepts utilized for the design of the bridge at a Jan. 31 forum hosted by the dot. morrow said the committee wants the bridge to reflect style elements of cortez and bradenton beach. islander Photo:

of a bascule bridge.

The new design also features a shoulder for immobilized vehicles to alleviate traffic jams caused by crashes or mechanical breakdowns. The current 35-foot bridge is a Dutch-style counterweight-assisted drawbridge with no shoulder.

Construction could begin in late 2025.

People at the meeting asked about design details and raised questions about the impact of construction and the structure on nearby properties.

Meanwhile, a group challenging the DOT’s decision to build a high bridge — Joe McClash, Linda Molto, Joe Kane and Jane von Hahmann — lost a round in federal court to the DOT but has an appeal due this month.

To learn more about the Cortez Bridge project go to cortezbridge.com.

— robert anderson

New Cortez Bridge timeline

• Submit Phase 3 design plans, summer 2023;

• Submit final design plans, spring 2025;

• Award construction contract, summer 2025;

• Construction begins, late 2025 or early 2026. source: dot

the Florida department of transportation released maps, designs, videos and other materials in late January for the planned fixed span bridge on cortez road connecting bradenton beach and cortez. to see the plans and comment online, go to cortezbridge.com. islander courtesy image

Meetings

Anna Maria City

Feb. 9, 2 p.m., commission.

by lisa neff

Feb. 21, 9 a.m., planning and zoning.

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

Bradenton Beach

Feb. 15, 10 a.m., department heads.

Feb. 15, 1 p.m., ScenicWAVES.

Feb. 16, noon, commission.

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

Holmes Beach

Feb. 8, 9 a.m., clean water.

Feb. 14, 2 p.m., city commission.

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

West Manatee Fire rescue

Feb. 21, 6 p.m., commission.

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

Bradenton Beach questions

randy White, a former bradenton beach commissioner, examines the dot’s plan for a new cortez bridge during a Jan. 31 forum at Kirkwood Presbyterian Church, 6101 Cortez Road W. White, who owns properties near the foot of the proposed ramp in bradenton beach, expressed concern about the retention ponds that would abut his property. “i would’ve rather seen, for cortez’s sake, the drawbridge because it doesn’t have the ramp or the runway and it wouldn’t have had an impact on cortez as much,” White said. “i think cortez is seeing more of an impact.”

Manatee County

Feb. 14, 8:30 a.m., commission.

Feb. 16, 1:30 p.m., commission (land use). County administration building, 1112 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton, 941-748-4501, mymanatee.org.

Also of interest

Feb. 13, 9 a.m., Manatee County Tourist Development Council, county administration building.

Feb. 20, Presidents Day, most government offices will be closed. Send listings to calendar@islander.org.

The local take bradenton resident bunni carroll listens Jan. 31 to Jose Hernandez of the Florida department of transportation during a forum on the new cortez bridge. the forum at Kirkwood Presbyterian church in bradenton garnered interest from residents and municipal and county government representatives. to see the plans and comment online to the dot, go to cortezbridge.com. islander Photos: robert anderson

robert anderson

Van ostenbridge mcclash

Fighting fatigue

On the heels of the threat of a hostile takeover by the state — Rep. Will Robinon’s proposal to consolidate or dissolve the island cities and to barge ahead with abolishing home rule in Holmes Beach to build a parking garage — there is no fight that’s gone on longer than the battle to stop the Florida Department of Transportation from building a megabridge to Anna Maria Island.

Just ask Katie Pierola, Bradenton Beach mayor (1989-92) who, sometime in 1990 or so, a few years before Save Anna Maria officially formed in 1993 to fight the Anna Maria Island Bridge replacement with a megabridge and just before this newspaper started up in 1992, led the charge to quash the DOT’s plans to replace the low, bascule bridge that links Bradenton Beach to Cortez with a 65-foot-clearance bridge.

In fact, the DOT shifted its focus and the budget for the Cortez Bridge to the AMI Bridge, admitting the outcry and opposition to the Cortez Bridge was too great to continue its plan there.

Some of the main players are gone now, as Billie Martini, Jim Kissick and Judge Claflin Garst Jr., the legal stamina for SAM, and others passed on, while some moved on and, in 2017, SAM disbanded.

The frustration, however, remains, along with a long-shot attempt to prevent the high bridge with a lawsuit against the DOT filed by a foursome headed by former County Commissioner Joe McClash and including former County Commissioner Jane von Hahmann, a Cortez resident.

Further exacerbating the effort to save the village of Cortez, the city of Bradenton Beach wavered in its support, eventually bargaining with the DOT for improvements if the city backed off its opposition.

The AMI Bridge — still lacking funding — gained approval in the early 2000s, as people were swayed that the megabridge would be safer for evacuation.

And yet, the DOT is pushing, pushing, pushing forward with the Cortez Bridge.

And why keep up the fight? Simply put, because it promises to destroy the treasure that is Cortez — the village way of life, the oldest operating fishing village in the state and the ambiance surrounding 100-plus/ minus homes on the historic registry since 1995.

Bradenton Beach may be willing to overlook the impact to condos and homes that abut the bridge and the intersection with Gulf Drive but heads in the sand can result in oblivion.

Fight your fatigue, view the project at cortezbridge. com and tell them what you think. It’s important.

— bonner Joy, news@islander.org

School reading material?

The Bible contains the following: sex, adultery, violence, human sacrifice, infanticide, cannibalism, racism, stoning, slavery, prostitution, beheading, murder, rape, fratricide, offering of virgin daughters for rape and genocide. Those don’t seem like appropriate topics for school reading.

Much more dangerous than Black studies, LGBTQ topics, critical race theory — which isn’t taught at all, yoga, meditation and emotional regulation.

Skimming online

Web (register for free news alerts) islander.org

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The Florida House bill bans the use of any instructional materials in classrooms, in school libraries or on school reading lists that are “pornographic” or “not suited to student needs and their ability to comprehend the material presented, or is inappropriate for the grade level and age group for which the material is used.”

And “curriculum transparency” law requires school book selections “be free of pornography and prohibited materials harmful to minors,” and mandates the “regular removal or discontinuance” of books that do not meet state guidelines.

The Bible does not meet the restrictions and should be banned.

Maureen Hirthler, Bradenton

For home rule

If state Rep. Will Robinson Jr., R-Bradenton, spent any time on the island, he would see we have a traffic problem, not a parking problem.

With 25,000 cars driving onto AMI on any given day, there is no way for a parking structure to accommodate the volume.

In 2015, the island cities commissioned a study and the findings were notable: residents and visitors want to retain the “old Florida” charm that defi nes Anna Maria Island and off-site parking solutions must be found to address the issue of overcrowding.

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E-edition

For $36 a year, online subscribers have access to the weekly e-edition with page-by-page views of all the news and advertisements. To subscribe online, visit islander.org.

To date, our county commissioners have failed to plan on both counts, opting instead to focus on more inflammatory issues.

Traffic aside, the issue that strikes fear in my heart, as it should for every American, is the egregious threat to consolidate our local governments for county takeover.

This attempted coup threatens the very foundation of a healthy democracy — the right to home rule.

I resent and do not approve of any tax dollars spent to fund such a study and I know that others agree. Any consolidation of island services should be decided upon by islanders — not from any top-down directives. The motives of this “take over” initiative are self-serving, short-sighted and perhaps illegal.

Government by bullying is no way to represent the people nor does it model acceptable behavior for your electorate.

Shawn Mayers, Holmes Beach

Delivering the news

in 1982, the s&s Plaza in Holmes beach provides office space for the island Herald weekly newspaper, as well as the beachcomber shopper. the weekly from the bradenton Herald was published april 1981-83. the beachcomber’s offices were also on Pine avenue in anna maria and bridge street in bradenton beach. the u.s. Post office remains. islander Photo: manatee county Public library system archives

Docking at Egmont

a landing dock for small boats exists near the pilot station on egmont Key in may 1984. the dock was built after the abandonment of the old Fort dade.

Your opinion

The Islander welcomes your opinion letters. Letters may be edited for length and style. Please limit the word count to 250 words or less. Submit your opinion along with a name, address and phone number to news@islander.org.

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10&20 years ago

From the Feb. 5, 2003, issue

• Residents of the Sandpiper Resort in Bradenton Beach, purchased the home park from the Vorbeck family, which had planned to sell the land to a condominium developer but were required by law to allow residents the right of first refusal.

• Holmes Beach commissioners voted to build a skate park adjacent to the public works facility. City attorney Patricia Petruff said Manatee County commissioners signed an interlocal agreement with the city to budget $5,000 annually for liability insurance. Then-Mayor Carol Whitmore said the Hagen family pledged $42,000 to build the park.

• Anna Maria Mayor SueLynn said some members of a merchants village association had a misconception that the city was instituting permit parking. She said the city was seeking additional public parking and the assumption that permit parking was a done deal was false.

From the Feb. 6, 2013, issue

• Anna Maria commissioners approved a motion to enforce a minimum 30-day stay for vacation homes and then held an emergency meeting to rescind the restriction.

• Anna Maria Island Community Center executive director Scott Dell told the board that after 2012 revenues and expenses, the center’s $4.5 million purchase loan was down to $1.5 million.

• Looking to eliminate private appraisals that regulated rehabs from the city’s land development code, Holmes Beach commissioners directed their city attorney to draft a new ordinance stating values would be based on the Manatee County property appraiser’s numbers.

— lisa neff

Print Your Own Memories

BB CRA selects contractor for utility undergrounding

by robert anderson islander reporter

The Bradenton Beach Community Redevelopment Agency selected a contractor to run more utility lines underground.

CRA members reviewed bids for services Feb. 1 and selected JM Underground Utilities for the district’s next phase of undergrounding — set for Bay Drive South.

The CRA began the undergrounding project in 2018, when it voted to underground utilities along Bridge Street and some stretches of Gulf Drive.

For the third phase, the CRA received bids from JM Underground of Fellsmere, which bid $436,995, and Hypower of Fort Myers, which bid $1,333,912.26.

Bradenton Beach public works director Tom Woodard, Police Chief John Cosby and city attorney Ricinda Perry evaluated both bids and gave the bid proposal from JM Underground the best rating.

Perry noted the difference in the bid amounts.

“I always get concerned when I see huge differences in numbers like this and certainly when you see extremely favorable numbers as JM is presenting, I wonder, did something get missed?” Perry said. “What I can say about that contractor is that the contractor has done all of the work from Bridge Street down to

Milestones

The Islander welcomes stories about islanders and island life, as well as photographs and notices of the milestones in readers’ lives — weddings, births, anniversaries, travels, obituaries and other events.

Submit your announcements and photographs with captions for publication — along with contact information — to news@islander.org.

Also, visit us on Facebook and join the 13,800plus friends who “like” The Islander and share their social news.

the bridge at Longboat Pass. They are very familiar with what the clearing area looks like, they’ve done fieldwork here and so I feel they understood what they were doing when they put these numbers out there.”

And Perry said the city has worked with Juan Martinez, owner of JM Underground, on two underground utility projects, as Martinez worked for Wilco Electrical before starting his own company.

In his role at Wilco, Martinez supervised and oversaw much of the work that was done on the city’s utility project.

The bids mainly are for the construction of conduit, pulling wires and setting transformers.

The project will be funded with CRA funds.

City treasurer Shayne Thompson said last fiscal year the CRA set aside $550,000 and paired it with $450,000 from this year’s budget to create a milliondollar fund. To date, the CRA has remaining about $800,000.

The CRA vote to enter contract discussions with

Anna Maria Art & Craft Show

JM Underground was unanimous. CRA member Jake Spooner, a commissioner, motioned for Perry to begin contract talks and he was seconded by Ed Chiles, a CRA member and business owner in the district.

The next CRA meeting will be at 9:30 a.m. Wednesday, Feb. 8, at city hall, 107 Gulf Drive N.

About the CrA

The Bradenton Beach CRA District, bordered by Cortez Road, Sarasota Bay, Fifth Street South and the Gulf of Mexico, was deemed blighted in 1992, allowing for incremental tax revenue to promote restoration and growth, including tourism.

The CRA board includes the city commission, Mayor John Chappie and two appointed members, Ed Chiles and David Bell.

bradenton beach community redevelopment agency members discuss Phase 3 of the cra utility undergrounding project intended for bay drive south during a Feb. 1 meeting at city hall. islander Photo: robert anderson

BB addresses state lawmakers’ threats against AMI

by robert anderson islander reporter

They’re looking ahead to some March madness.

An update during the Feb. 2 commission meeting from city attorney Ricinda Perry gave way to discussion about what may be coming for the island cities when the Florida Legislature convenes March 7.

The discussion followed a January announcement from state Rep. Will Robinson Jr., R-Bradenton, in which he proposed a state study on consolidating or dissolving island governments and also proposed a bill to override Holmes Beach’s established height limit and ban on multilevel parking garages in order for Manatee County to build a garage at the Manatee Public Beach.

The entire Manatee County Legislative Delegation backed the proposals from state Rep. Will Robinson, R-Bradenton whose district includes Anna Maria Island, as does the district of state Sen. Jim Boyd, R-Bradenton.

“In my legal opinion, the city’s charter, all of our

etHics continued From Page 3

he added.

Ethics board’s findings

Ahead of the Feb. 1 commission report dismissing the complaint, ethics commission complaint coordinator Millie Fulford sent a Dec. 20 recommendation from commission advocate Melody Hadley to Tokajer detailing the commission’s investigation into Christenson’s claims.

The report states about Christenson’s allegations: “There is insufficient evidence to reflect that respondent (Tokajer) used his position to leak information that led to a public records request as alleged by complainant. Furthermore, there is insufficient evidence to reflect how respondent benefitted from the alleged leak.”

The report also found Christenson’s second claim lacked sufficient evidence to reflect a violation, and recommended the commission find no probable cause for both claims.

Tokajer told The Islander Feb. 3 that he was “very happy” the complaint was dismissed because the investigation “weighed” on him for several months.

“It takes a toll,” Tokajer said. “I don’t know why, when she came into the position as a commissioner, she decided to attack the police department and myself, but that was a one-sided attack. I have nothing against her. I’m just holding her to the same level of accountability for being honest.”

“I’ve disagreed with commissioners over many items … but I’ve never really had a personal attack like this from a commissioner,” he added.

“Had Jayne Christenson still been a commissioner, then I would have filed a complaint with the ethics commission against her — which I’m sure would not have come out the same way as mine because her entire complaint is full of untruths and lies,” Tokajer said. “The things she’s saying are slander and libel.”

Ready for snowbird season?

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

bradenton beach mayor John chappie speaks Feb. 2 during a city commission meeting, which included discussion on legislative priorities — and legislative threats. islander Photo: robert anderson

LDCs, everything goes away,” Perry said Feb. 2. “The first thing that kicks in for me is all of our franchise agreements. All of the contracts with all of your independent contractors: Colliers, Steve Gilbert’s fi rm, myself.”

“There’s also something else that popped into my mind as I was laying this out,” Perry said. “We have a lot of properties that were donated to the city and we

also have the library fund.”

If the city no longer exists, what entity would hold those properties or the fund? she asked.

Perry also questioned the security of the city’s retirement fund, as well as fees and other incomes.

Commissioner Ralph Cole asked if a study would take a great deal of time and Perry responded that Robinson referenced a one-year study to be presented for the 2024 legislative session.

She said the Florida League of Cities was prepared to assist the island cities in defending their charters.

“What can we do?” asked Commissioner Jan Vosburgh asked.

“We are doing it now, I can tell you,” said Mayor John Chappie. “Our lobbyists are aware of the situation and they are keeping eyes out for anything that comes up in Tallahassee. I’ve had several meetings with the other island mayors. We’ve had a couple meetings with our legislators.”

Chappie continued, “We’re all on the same island we all have to abide by the same rules and regulations. We’re trying to move forward in a positive way.”

a block of gulf drive, west of the intersections with marina drive and Holmes boulevard in Holmes beach, remains closed Feb. 2 while sarasotabased c-squared continues its work on city center improvements.

are doing and the work they’ve done, they’re on task and we’ve been happy with the work effort.”

At least two business owners told The Islander they were hopeful to see the project’s end sooner rather than later.

Christofer Dale, co-owner of the Feast Restaurant in the Island Shopping Center at 5406 Marina Drive, said his restaurant had been heavily impacted by construction since September.

“People either can’t find a way to get in or they just don’t want to, both because it’s such a mess. … It’s been tough,” he said.

Dale said he’s seen a slight improvement in business in recent weeks and he expressed support for the project as a whole.

“Once it gets done, I think it will be a beautiful improvement,” Dale said.

an old stormwater pipeline on the north side, as well as add pervious brick paver sidewalks and new crosswalks on Gulf and Marina drives.

Kamiya said some work would remain to be done, including the installation of street lighting and pedestrian crossing signals, as well as landscaping.

Kamiya also voiced support for C-Squared.

“We’re all anxious for them to keep on going,” Kamiya said. “But, as far as contractually what they

Janet Razze, an artist at the Artists’ Guild Gallery in the same center at 5414 Marina Drive, said that at first, few people visited the gallery due to the construction but she had seen recent improvement despite continued parking challenges.

“We were losing a lot of money every week,” Razze said. “But it has improved. We’re getting a little more people showing up.”

She encouraged people to attend the Art Walk Friday, Feb. 10, when they can walk to galleries and stores in the evening, watch demonstrations and take part in the gallery’s “Paint the Town” celebration.

rOaD WOrK continued From Page 1

islander Photo: ryan Paice

compiled by lisa neff, calendar@islander.org.

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT ON AMI

Thursday, Feb. 9

2 p.m. — Friends of the Island Library Travel and Lecture Series, with Tori Chasey of the Florida Maritime Museum in Cortez, Roser Memorial Community Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Information: 941-778-6341.

Friday, Feb. 10

6:45 p.m. — Center of Anna Maria Island Murder-Mystery

“Sneak Peak,” 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria. Fee applies. Information: 941-778-1908.

Saturday, Feb. 11

6:45 p.m. — Center of Anna Maria Island Murder-Mystery dinner theater, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria. Fee applies. Information: 941-778-1908.

ONGOING ON AMI

Feb. 11-12, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Arts and crafts sale, city field, 5800 block of Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Info: 231-350-8277.

Throughout February, Artists’ Guild of Anna Maria Island’s “Paint the Town” celebration, Guild Gallery, 5414 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, and other locales. Information: 941-778-6694.

Second Fridays through April, 5:30-7:30 p.m., Art Walk and Shop Stroll, Gulf and Marina drives, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6648, 941-778-6694.

Throughout February, Karen Beach’s “It Takes Two” watercolor exhibit, Island Gallery West, 5368 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: islandgallerywest.com, 941-778-6648.

Tuesdays through March 7, 6:30 p.m., Anna Maria Movies in the Park, City Pier Park, North Bay Boulevard and Pine Avenue, Anna Maria. Information: 941-708-6130.

Tuesdays through May 9, 8:30 a.m.-2 p.m., Anna Maria Farmers Market, City Pier Park, North Bay Boulevard and Pine Avenue, Anna Maria. Information: 941-708-6130.

AROUND AMI

Thursday, Feb. 9

2 p.m. — “Bruno Sammartino” documentary, Florida debut,

Island happenings

On the screen

“bruno sammartino” will make its Florida debut at 2 p.m. thursday, Feb. 9, at the manatee Performing arts center, 502 Third Ave. W., bradenton. the documentary, presented in partnership with the bradenton area convention and Visitors bureau, tells the rags-toriches story of a man whose family fled the nazi invasion of their home in italy and who would one day become one of the most famous professional wrestler in the world. tickets are $8. For more, go to www.manateeperformingartscenter.com or call 941749-1111. Islander Courtesy Photo

Manatee Performing Arts Center’s Stone Hall, 502 Third Ave. W., Bradenton. Fee applies. Information: 941-748-5875.

Sunday, Feb. 12

4-7 p.m. — Paradise Center’s “Dancing through the Decades, 546 Bay Isles Road, Longboat Key. Fee applies. Information: 941383-6493.

ONGOING AROUND AMI

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

Through March 26, “True Nature: Rodin and the Age of Impressionism” exhibit Museum of Fine Arts, 255 Beach Drive NE, St. Petersburg. Fee applies. Information: 941-896-2667.

Through May 28, “Gods and Lovers: Painting and Sculpture from India,” the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, 5401 Bay Shore Road, Sarasota. Fee applies. Information: 941-360-7390, ringling.org.

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

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

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

SAVE THE DATE

Feb. 18-19, Cortez Commercial Fishing Festival, Cortez. Feb. 18, Pittsburgh Pirates Block Party, Bradenton.

Feb. 24, Florida Maritime Museum screening, “Through the Tunnel” and “Eating Out: The Hunt for Sustainable Seafood.” Cortez.

Feb. 25, Bradenton Gulf Islands Concert Series at the Center of Anna Maria Island presents Grand Funk Railroad, Anna Maria.

March 4-5, Invitational at Holmes Beach/Anna Maria, Holmes Beach.

March 9-26, Island Players’ “The 39 Steps,” Anna Maria.

March 12, Island Players’ “How the Other Half Lives” auditions, Anna Maria.

March 18-19, Anna Maria Island Art League’s Springfest, Holmes Beach.

March 21, Bradenton Gulf Islands Concert Series at the Center of Anna Maria Island presents The Orchestra, Anna Maria.

KIDS & FAMILY ON AMI

Friday, Feb. 10

10 a.m. — 40 Carrots, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341.

Saturday, Feb. 11

10 a.m. ‚ Origami Club, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341.

AROUND AMI

Saturday, Feb. 11

8:30 a.m.-8 p.m. — Bradenton Area River Regatta, the Green Bridge over the Manatee River, Palmetto and Bradenton. Information: bradentonarearegatta.com.

Wednesday, Feb. 15

6 p.m. — Bishop Museum of Science and nature workshop, “The Scientific Process,” Center of Anna Maria Island, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria. Information: 941-778-1908.

ONGOING AROUND AMI

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

SAVE THE DATE

March 10, Center’s Bingo Bonanza, Anna Maria.

March 12, St. Patrick’s Day Parade, Holmes Beach, Anna Maria.

March 18, Desoto National Memorial’s “Five Centuries of Florida History,” Bradenton.

April 15, Desoto National Memorial’s “Landing,” Bradenton.

April 29, De Soto Grand Parade, Bradenton. CLUBS

Wednesday, Feb. 8

11:30 a.m.-2 p.m. — Anna Maria Island Garden Club Fashion Show, Center of Anna Maria Island, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria.

Music Lessons: Guitar, Piano,

Island Time Book Club, “Verity” by Colleen Hoover, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: mymanatee.org/library, 941-778-6341.

Thursday, Feb. 9

1 p.m. — Anna Maria Island and West Manatee Democratic Club meeting, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: barbara.ehren@gmail.com.

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

Saturday, March 11

9-11 a.m. — Center of Anna Maria Island beach cleanup, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria. Fee applies. Information: 941-7781908.

ONGOING ON AMI

Most Wednesdays, 1 p.m., mahjong club beginners, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: mymanatee. org/library, 941-778-6341.

Second Wednesdays, noon, Off Stage Ladies meeting and luncheon, various locations. Fee applies. Information:” 941-9322798.

Thursdays, 6 p.m., Anne Silver Community Center bingo games, 103 23rd St. N., Bradenton Beach. Fee applies. Information: 413-441-6823.

Most Fridays, 11:30 a.m., mahjong club experienced players, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: mymanatee.org/library, 941-778-6341.

Fridays, noon, bridge, Roser Memorial Community Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Information: 314-324-5921.

Saturdays, 8:30 a.m., Kiwanis Club of Anna Maria Island meeting, Bradenton Beach City Hall, 107 Gulf Drive N., Bradenton Beach. Information: 941-778-1383.

Tuesdays, noon, duplicate bridge, Episcopal Church of the Annunciation, 4408 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 703582-7755.

AROUND AMI

Wednesday, Feb. 8

1-2 p.m. — Veterans Canteen, “Celebrating the Coast Guard,” Paradise Center, 546 Bay Isles Road, Longboat Key. Information: 941-383-6493.

ONGOING AROUND AMI

Second Fridays, 1 p.m., Parkinson’s Combined Support Group, Paradise Center, 546 Bay Isles Road, Longboat Key. Information: 941-383-6493.

Mondays, 1 p.m., Thinking Out Loud discussions, the Paradise Center, 546 Bay Isles Road, Longboat Key. Information: 941-3836493.

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

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

SAVE THE DATE

Feb. 17, AMI Garden Club lunch and meeting, Anna Maria. March 9-11, Friends of the Island Library jewelry sale, Holmes Beach.

Island happenings

Crafts show set for city field

Blue Ribbon Events will bring an arts and crafts show to Holmes Beach’s city field Feb. 11-12.

Hours for the weekend event will be 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

City field is north of Holmes Beach City Hall in the 5800 block of Marina Drive.

The show will showcase vendors selling paintings, sculptures, jewelry, glasswork, pottery, mixed-media and more.

Blue Ribbon will be collecting nonperishable donations during the event for the Roser Food Pantry in Anna Maria.

For more information, call Blue Ribbon at 231-350-8277.

March 11, Center of Anna Maria Island beach cleanup, Anna Maria.

March 17, AMI Garden Club flower show, Anna Maria.

March 25, Clint Hurdle’s Hot Stove Dinner to benefit PraderWilli Syndrome Association, Holmes Beach.

April 1, Center of Anna Maria Island beach cleanup, Anna Maria.

April 16, Cortez Village Historical Society Village Picnic, Cortez.

April 21, AMI Club lunch and meeting, Anna Maria.

OUTDOORS & SPORTS

ONGOING ON AMI

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

ONGOING AROUND AMI

Saturdays, 9 a.m., Robinson Runners run, walk stroll, Robinson Preserve NEST, 10299 Ninth Ave. NW., Bradenton. Information: 941-742-5923, crystal.scherer@mymanatee.org, mymanatee.org.

SAVE THE DATE

Feb. 25-March 28, Pittsburgh Pirates spring training season, Bradenton.

March 12, Skyway 10K, Sunshine Skyway Bridge.

GOOD TO KNOW

KEEP THE DATES

Feb. 12, Super Bowl Sunday.

Feb. 14, Valentine’s Day.

Feb. 20, Presidents Day.

Feb. 21, Fat Tuesday.

Catch ‘The Cutting Edge’

Anna Maria continues its Movies in the Park series Tuesdays at 6:30 p.m. at City Pier Park, 103 N. Bay Blvd.

Next on the calendar is “The Cutting Edge,” showing Feb. 14.

The 1992 rom-com is about a figure skater paired with a sidelined hockey player for the Olympics.

Also this month:

Feb. 21: “Encanto”

Feb. 28: “Field of Dreams.”

Attendees are encouraged to bring their own seating, blankets or chairs and snacks.

For more info, call the city at 941-708-6130.

Democratic club to meet

The Anna Maria Island and West Manatee Democratic Club will meet at 1 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 9, at the Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach.

The program will include remarks by Kathleen Cramer, executive director of Turning Points in Bradenton.

Additional meetings this season will be 11:30 a.m. Monday, March 20, and 11:30 a.m. Monday, April 17.

Membership in the club costs $25.

To confirm attendance, email Barbara Beckwith at bbeckwith02@gmail.com.

Library Friends host maritime museum lecturer

The Friends of the Island Library will continue its lecture and travel series Thursday, Feb. 9, hosting Tori Chasey of the Florida Maritime Museum in Cortez. Chasey will talk about the museum, which is housed in the old Cortez schoolhouse, as well as talk about Cortez culture, economy and history.

The program will begin at 2 p.m. at Roser Memorial Community Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria.

For more information, contact the Island Library at friendsoftheislandlibrary.org or 941- 778-6341.

Island happenings

People fill a meeting room at the island library Jan. 27 to listen to Holocaust survivor george erdstein speak about his experiences to commemorate international Holocaust remembrance day. islander

Photos: ryan Paice

George Erdstein tells an Island Library audience Jan. 27 — International Holocaust Remembrance Day — about his family’s experience as Jewish people in Vienna. erdstein was born in Vienna in 1938, shortly after the annexation of austria into the german reich. there, his family experienced the “Kristallnacht,” otherwise known as “the night of broken glass” due to the broken windows of Jewish-owned properties ransacked by nazis. the erdstein family came to the united states as refugees in 1939.

Season arrives for AMI arts community, as galleries host receptions, demos, contests

Art Walk set for Feb. 10 Island Gallery West will host a reception 5:307:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 10, to celebrate Karen Beach’s “It Takes Two” exhibit.

IGW, 5368 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, also will host musicians and serve light bites and drinks during the event.

Also, the Artists’ Guild of Anna Maria Island will host a reception 5-7:30 p.m. celebrating its “Paint the Town” campaign. The Artists’ Guild Gallery is at 5414 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach.

Both receptions are booked as part of a “Second Friday Art Walk” in Holmes Beach.

For more information, call IGW at 941-7786648 and the Guild Gallery at 941-778-6694.

Guild celebration continues

The Artists’ Guild of Anna Maria Island is holding “Paint the Town” in February, offering demonstrations and other activities.

The monthlong celebration, in cooperation with

the Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau, includes:

• Artist demos at the Artists’ Guild Gallery at 11 a.m. Wednesday-Saturday;

• Paint arounds, where five artists collaborate on five paintings, 3-5 p.m. Fridays;

• Kid activities, 3 p.m. Fridays;

• Plein aire artists outings, 9 a.m. Tuesdays.

The gallery is at 5414 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach.

For more, call the gallery at 941-778-6694.

AGAMi, FiSH coordinate photo contest

The Artists’ Guild of Anna Maria Island has partnered with the Florida Institute for Saltwater Heritage to hold a photo contest for the Cortez Commercial Fishing Festival, set for Feb. 18-19 in the village.

In the call to artists, AGAMI said, “Photographers are asked to share their images of Cortez village.”

Five awards will be presented in each of three age categories.

Tiki & Kitty’s

Tiki and Kitty are ready for their favorite sport — sipping wine and shopping for goodies at their favorite thrifts and boutiques.

Blue Flamingo invites you to “Sip and Shop” 5-8 Wednesday, Feb. 8, and then return for their carport sale, 9-2 Saturday, Feb 11. They are a hip and trendy boutique, offering furniture, decor, garden features, candles, jewelry and work by local artisans.

Miss us? WE MISS YOU AMI!

Stop by at our other locations:

Scavengers Marketplace SRQ 1175 N Washington Blvd

Scavengers Palmetto

2100 US Hwy 301

The top prize winner will also have their photo published in The Islander newspaper.

Electronic submissions must be submitted by 11:59 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 8, to prosportpic@ gmail.com.

AGAMI photographer Peter Russell will judge the contest.

For more, contact Carolann Garafola at 908922-1973 or carolanngarafola1@gmail.com.

Artist demo at iGW

Island Gallery West will host artist Jim Wheeler at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 11, for a demonstration in “high-definition photo art” at the gallery, 5368 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach.

For more, call the gallery at 941-778-6648.

Art league seeks volunteers

The Anna Maria Island Art League is organizing its Springfest festival for March and is seeking volunteers. For more information, call 941-778-2099.

Adventures in Shopping … Antiques, Art-Tiques and Chic Boutiques!

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 stay and visit — filled with collectibles and work by local artists. The store is 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.

Great work from Local Artisans Upcycled, Repurposed, Vintage Dixie Belle Paint, Fun Gifts & More! theblueflamingo.biz

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

Wed-Sat 10-5 Palma 30+ Local

Vendors & Artists

Square

10 to 5 Tues-Sat | 941.227.1936 4229 26th St. W. | Bradenton

by brook morrison

100 days

anna maria elementary secondgrade student elle blackburn, left, poses Feb. 2 with her sister, kindergartner lemon, during an observance of the 100th day of the 2022-23 school year. islander courtesy

AME Calendar

• Monday, Feb. 20, Presidents Day, no school.

• Tuesday, Feb. 21, third-grade play, 6:30 p.m., auditorium; PTO dinner TBD, 5 p.m., cafeteria.

• Friday, Feb. 24, Princess Ball, 5:30-7 p.m., auditorium.

• Wednesday, March 1, picture day.

• Friday, March 10, record day, no school.

• March 13-17, spring break, no school.

• Tuesday, March 28, second-grade play, 6:30 p.m., auditorium; PTO dinner TBD, 5 p.m., cafeteria.

• Thursday, April 6, walk-a-thon.

• Friday, April 7, record day, no school.

PTO plans ‘Golden Age’ gala

Anna Maria Elementary supporters are invited to go “dancing cheek to cheek” as they pay homage to Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers and celebrate the “Golden Age” of Hollywood.

The AME-PTO’s spring gala, “Vintage Hollywood, the Golden Age,” will be held Saturday, May 13, at the IMG Academy Golf Club ballroom, 5650 Bollettieri Blvd., Bradenton.

“It really is the perfect location for our theme, as it’s a blank canvas with so much opportunity to bring the magic,” AME-PTO vice president Tammy Collins told The Islander Jan. 31.

She added, “Everyone is so excited with the theme,

WE ROCK ONLINE

From Kiwanis to K-Kids

sandy Haasmartens of the Kiwanis club of anna maria island and a former Holmes beach commissioner reads Feb. 2 to ame fifthgrade students during “stories for seniors.” islander courtesy Photos

the Golden Age, a simpler and romantic era of film, music and comedy.”

The gala is the PTO’s largest annual fundraiser to benefit Anna Maria Elementary.

Tickets soon will be available for purchase at the school, 4700 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, and on the AME-PTO website, amepto.org.

“This is a very important fundraiser, especially as we were unable to have our annual Dolphin Dash due to construction and road closures,” Collins said.

The theme is a nod to the glamorous days of Hollywood, when timeless dance and musical numbers graced the silver screen.

The IMG ballroom offers an ideal setting for guests expecting a night of dining, dancing and entertainment — and bidding on auction items.

Proceeds will support school programs and initiatives, including funding for AME’s partnership with the Guy Harvey Foundation.

For more information about becoming a gala sponsor or joining the event committee, visit the AME-PTO website at amepto.org.

i.wed The Islander Wedding Directory

Photo

Patricia Webster of the Kiwanis club of anna maria island, left, joins ame principal mike masiello and guidance counselor Kim sherburne Feb. 2 for the Kiwanis presentation of $700 to AME K-Kids to support their annual charity fundraisers. the Kiwanis sponsors the bugs — bring up grades — awards.

Gathering by lisa neff

Singers sought for Roser’s ‘Festival of Faith’

Roser Memorial Community Church is seeking singers to join its Palm Sunday Cantata Choir for this year’s “Festival of Faith” musical.

Rehearsals will be 6:45 p.m. Thursdays beginning Feb. 9 at the church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria.

The “Festival of Faith” will be performed at 8:30 a.m. and 10 a.m. services Sunday, April 2.

For more information, call the church offi ce at 941-778-0414.

Tidings

ON AMI

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

Worship: Sundays, 9 a.m.

Ongoing: Wednesdays, 7 a.m., men’s Bible meeting; Wednesdays, 6 p.m., supper; Wednesdays, Night Blast, 6:45 p.m.; Fridays, 10 a.m. women’s Bible meeting.

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

Worship: Thursdays, 9:30 a.m.; Sundays, 8 a.m. and 10:15 a.m. except Feb. 26, with one service at 9:15 a.m.

Ongoing: Wednesdays, 8 a.m., men’s meeting; Mondays, 1 p.m., book group; Tuesdays, 6 p.m. first and second, 5 p.m. third and fourth, Terrific Tuesdays.

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

Worship: Sundays, 9:30 a.m.

Ongoing: Wednesdays, 9:30 a.m., social gathering, Manatee Public Beach; Sundays, 10:15 a.m., coffee and fellowship.

Harvey Memorial Community Church, 300 Church Ave., Bradenton Beach. Information: 941-779-1912.

Worship: Sundays, 9:15 a.m.

Roser Memorial Community Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Information: 941-778-0414, roserchurch.com, @roserchurch.

Growing in Jesus’ Name

JOY to hear tortoise talk

The Just Older Youth group at Roser Memorial Community Church will learn about gopher tortoises and get an introduction to a rehabbed gopher tortoise.

Elena Burke of the Manatee County Parks and Natural Resources department will address the JOY club Thursday, Feb. 15, and bring a companion, Genbu, a gopher tortoise injured in a hitand-run.

JOY meets the first and third Wednesdays at 11:30 a.m. at the church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria.

The church will serve beverages and treats but attendees are encouraged to bring brown-bag lunches.

For more information, call the church at 941778-0414.

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

Ongoing: Tuesdays and Thursdays, 9:30 a.m., Roser Robics; Tuesdays and Thursdays, 9 a.m.-2 p.m. and Saturdays, 10 a.m.-1 p.m., Roser Thrift Store; Wednesdays, 6:15 p.m., Youth Performing Arts, first and third Wednesdays, 11: 30 a.m., Just Older Youth group programs with brown-bag lunch; Thursdays, 5:30 p.m., Roser Ringers rehearsal; 7 p.m., Thursdays, choir rehearsal; Sundays, 8:30 a.m., adult Sunday school and coffee and conversation sessions. St. Bernard Catholic Church, 248 S. Harbor Drive, Holmes Beach. Info: 941-778-4769, stbernardcc.org, office@stbernardcc. org.

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

Worship With Us at Our Church

Sunday Ser vice 10 : 00 AM

The Rev. Dr. Norman Pritchard

Watch Our 10:00 AM Ser vice Li ve: / www.christchurchof ( k

Save the date: Sale day at Annunciation shoppers turn out for a white elephant sale at the episcopal church of the annunciation. this year’s sale will begin at 9:30 a.m. saturday, Feb. 11, at the church, 4408 gulf drive, Holmes beach. For more information, call the church at 941-778-1638. Islander File Photo

Ongoing: Mondays-Fridays, 8 a.m., rosary; Wednesdays, 7:30 a.m., Rosary on the Beach at Manatee Public Beach; second Thursdays, women’s guild luncheons; Saturdays, 3 p.m., confession. OFF AMI

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

Worship: Sundays, 10 a.m.

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

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

Worship: Sundays, 10 a.m.

Ongoing: Mondays, Wednesdays and Saturdays, 9 a.m.-3 p.m., Lord’s Warehouse Thrift Shop; Wednesdays, 10 a.m., Bible study; Mondays, 4 p.m., choir rehearsal.

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

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

Ongoing: Fridays, 6:45 p.m., choir call.

SPECIAL DATES & EVENTS

Through March 1, Wednesdays, 10 a.m. or 2 p.m., Roser Church’s “In the Hebrew Scriptures” program.

Feb. 11, 9:30 a.m., start, Annunciation’s White Elephant sale.

Feb. 18, 8 a.m.-11 a.m., Roser Church Pancake Breakfast.

Feb. 19, 4 p.m., Roser Church concert.

Feb. 19, Temple Beth Israel gala dinner, 5:30 p.m., Michael’s on East, Sarasota.

Feb. 22, Ash Wednesday.

Feb. 24-25, 9 a.m.-1 p.m., St. Bernard Rummage Sale.

Roser Church

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

SUNDAY WORSHIP

8:30 AM & 10:00 AM

IN PERSON � in the Sanctuary Nursery • Children’s Church

ONLINE � Watch LIVE or LATER RoserChurch.com

Text ROSER to 22828 to receive the weekly eBulletin

The CHAPEL is open during office hours for prayer and meditation

941-778-0414 • 512 Pine Ave, Anna Maria • FOLLOW us on Facebook @RoserChurch

1880s Quilt, $125

Featuring:

compiled by lisa neff

Virtual tickets on sale for ‘Clint Hurdle’s Hot Stove Dinner’

The ninth annual “Hot Stove Dinner” to benefit the Prader-Willi Syndrome Association USA will be Saturday, March 25.

This year, like last year, some “Hot Stove Dinner” diners can eat from TV trays, as they’ll be attending virtually, from the comfort of home.

Holmes Beach resident Clint Hurdle, who has had a long career in Major League Baseball, is hosting the event with wife Karla at the Key Royale Club, 700 Key Royale Drive, Holmes Beach. A reception will be at 5 p.m. and the general program will begin at 6 p.m.

Prader-Willi syndrome is a genetic condition that occurs in about one out of every 15,000 births. PWS is recognized as the most common genetic cause of life-threatening childhood obesity.

Hurdle’s daughter Maddie lives with PWS.

For those who attend the in-person event, the evening will include dinner, musical entertainment by country artist Max Flinn, as well as a “Coconut Helicopter Drop” — raffled golf balls dropped over the practice green — and live and silent auctions.

An announcement online said virtual attendees can watch the program, as well as participate in the raffles and auction, including bidding for vacation packages, event tickets and autographed sports and entertainment memorabilia.

For more information about the association, as well as ticketing details, go online to www.pwsausa. org.

GoodDeeds

compiled by lisa neff

Assistance sought on AMI

• Anna Maria Island Art League seeks volunteers for Springfest in March. Info: 941-778-2099.

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

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

Assistance offered on AMI

• Roser Food Bank welcomes applicants who live and/or work on Anna Maria Island for food assistance, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Info: 941778-0414.

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

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

the center of anna maria island’s senior outings crew smile Jan. 27 while on an excursion to siesta Key rum distillery. they also recently visited the siesta Key oyster bar, the columbia restaurant and attended annie silver’s bingo night. islander Photo: center of anna maria island

Community center cuts into early deficit

by ryan Paice islander reporter

The Center of Anna Maria Island dug a deep hole early in fiscal 2022-23.

But a big month might be a sign things are turning around.

December was the center’s first positive month of the fiscal year — which began July 1, 2022 — gaining the nonprofit $90,863.43 in net income, according to a report.

That income brings what was a $264,228.13 deficit through November 2022 — when the center lost $24,403.78 for the month — down to $173,364.70 through December 2022.

At the same point last year, the nonprofit was $193,952 in the black — a $367,316 difference.

Nevertheless, center executive director Christopher Culhane wrote in a Feb. 1 email to The Islander that the nonprofit was only beginning to make up the deficit.

“We will continue to lower the deficit during these busy season months,” Culhane wrote. “It appears as if January was our busiest month ever.”

The center had not released a financial report for

January as of Feb. 2.

As for December, the center earned $98,214.60 in program revenue, the nonprofit’s second-highest mark after $105,617.10 in July 2022.

The big difference is that the center spent $31,891.23 on program costs in December, less than half of the $65,695.64 the nonprofit spent in July.

That led to $66,323.37 in program income for the month, the best of the center’s fiscal year and enough to offset $56,866.38 in general and administrative costs, resulting in $9,456.99 in operating income.

The biggest difference-maker, however, is the nonprofit’s fundraising efforts.

The center earned $138,836.94 in fundraising revenue in December, more than double the second-highest monthly mark of $57,418.43 set in November.

After spending $56,186.84 on fundraising costs, another high mark for the fiscal year, the center’s fundraising efforts resulted in $82,650.10 income.

The nonprofi t’s fundraising numbers were bolstered by the beginning of the center’s annual matching challenge.

The challenge collected $208,438 from 160 donors by its end on Jan. 13.

Island Players raise $4.5K for Venice players

There was applause with benefits.

Before they raised the curtain on the stage performance at the Anna Maria playhouse, the Island Players raised $4,500 to support the Venice Theatre, damaged last September in Hurricane Ian.

On Jan. 28, the Island Players held a benefit performance of Neil Simon’s “The Odd Couple” and dedicated ticket sales, as well as donations and a 50/50 raffle.

Raffle winners Joseph and Debra Pascarella donated their prize back to the benefit.

The evening began with Champagne and light bites and ended with a standing ovation.

Next onstage at the Anna Maria playhouse will be a run of Patrick Barlow’s “The 39 Steps,” which will open Thursday, March 9.

For tickets and more information, go to theislandplayers.org.

north from Cortez Road into Sunny Shores at 115th

West, turn left at first

sign.

Local author publishes bio on tennis legend Nick Bollettieri

Local author Mark “Scoop” Malinowski recently published his biography of Nick Bollettieri, trainer of tennis greats and member of the tennis hall of fame. Bollettieri died in Dec. 4, 2022, at his home in Bradenton.

“Nick Bollettieri: Godfather Of Modern Tennis” is available in print and digital versions from amazon. com from the author of 11 other books about tennis.

A Q&A with the author:

Why did you decide to do a book about Nick Bollettieri?

Scoop Malinowski: From covering professional tennis as a reporter since 1992, I’ve heard so many diverse colorful stories about Nick and his worldrenowned academy, there came a point in time a few years ago the realization that there are more than enough to do a good book about it all.

What did you learn about Nick that you did not previously know?

SM: That he’s a more interesting and intriguing character and subject than many Grand Slam champions. It’s impossible to calculate how many people’s lives he impacted and influenced in a positive way.

Why should tennis fans purchase this book?

SM: Because it’s a great, fun, light but very informative and insightful read. Working on the book I almost feel like I lived through the unique experience of being a young tennis player training at the world’s greatest sports academy. The reader will too.

the cover for “nick bollettieri: godfather of modern tennis” by author and journalist mark “scoop” malinowski, of new Jersey and Perico island. islander courtesy Photo

Hey sports fans

Pull out the scrapbooks and gather up the recollections because two milestone anniversaries are on the calendar.

The Pittsburgh Pirates return this month for spring training and they’ll be marking their 55th season in Bradenton.

Also, the 2023 season will mark the 100th year of professional baseball in Bradenton, which began with play by the St. Louis Cardinals in 1923.

Want to share your memories of Major Leaguers and their presence on the island?

Email lisa@islander.org.

Windy day ride max Higgins, top, catches a wave Jan. 24 as devlin novak waits for his ride. the friends took advantage of conditions that brought wind gusts of 15-25 mph out of the north-northwest at cortez beach in bradenton beach.

GET IN THE $100 GAME!

The Islander will pay $100 to the person entering the correct or closest game-winning score for the Feb. 12 Super Bowl. All entries must be handwritten (original) on the published form or copy of the form. Entry must include name, address and phone/cell number. Only one entry per person. All entries must be delivered to the newspaper office either in person (deposit in door slot) by noon p.m. Saturday, Feb. 11, or or by mail (postmarked) by Friday, Feb. 10. In the event of a tie, a winner will be drawn from eligible tying entries. The decision of The Islander football judge is final. Mail or deliver to The Islander, 315 58th St., Suite J, Holmes Beach. INFO: 941-778-7978

islander Photo: robert anderson

Trading paddles for pails

“the beach was thankfully fairly clean but we always pick up those bottle caps and fill bags and pails of trash,”

coach melinda bradway told the islander Jan. 29. the team plans another cleanup in anna maria tuesday, Feb. 21. For more information about the cleanups or the paddling, call bradway at 941-462-2626.

the ami Paddlers from Paradise dragon boat racing team hit the sand Jan. 4 with support from ami Fitness to clear litter. islander courtesy Photo

Super Bowl primer

Approaching the big game day Feb. 12, there’s one certainty: Island bars and restaurants, especially Slim’s Place — the north end home of some real Philly fanatics — will be happening.

You can already hear them singing, “Fly Eagles, fly.”

Whether island viewers will watch from a bar stool, the couch in their living room or a lounger in their Florida room, The Islander offers a quick guide to game day:

Super Bowl LVII will take place at 6:30 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 12, at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona.

Competing on the field: the Kansas City Chiefs, with quarterback Patrick Mahomes; and the Philadelphia Eagles, with quarterback Jalen Hurts. The Eagles will be the home team.

Entertaining on the field: Country singer Chris Stapleton will perform the national anthem and hip-hop/R&B artist Rihanna will be the halftime headliner.

Row, row, row your…

People turn out Jan. 29 at nathan benderson Park in sarasota for a new dragon boat paddler day. about 50 people attended a “Dragon Boat 101” program at the rowing facility. Newbies also are invited to attend paddles at the park at 3:30 p.m. Wednesdays or 9:30 a.m. saturdays. For more information, call rickard Jensen of Holmes Beach at 575-749-9211. Islander Courtesy Photo

Broadcasting and streaming: Most island viewers will be watching on Fox but steaming options exist.

Of local interest: Will Tom Brady join the broadcast team?

ScenicWAVES defends its work to BB commission

by robert anderson islander reporter

Members of the Bradenton Beach ScenicWAVES group came together Feb. 2 to ensure survival of their committee.

At a Jan. 19 city commission meeting, some at the dais questioned whether the group was achieving results and called for a study on the advisory committee to determine its future value.

At a Feb. 2 meeting, ScenicWAVES brought a presence and a defense.

Ingrid McClellan, who chairs the committee, presented city commissioners and the mayor with an overview of ScenicWAVE’s functions and duties during a review of their scenic highway report to be sent to the Florida Department of Transportation.

ScenicWAVES serves as the Bradenton Beach Scenic Highway Corridor management entity for the DOT’s designated Scenic Highway Program, represents the city in the Waterfronts Florida Partnership Program and also performs as the city’s tree city and landscaping committee.

McClellan said on top of normal duties in the past fiscal year, ScenicWAVES was involved in growing City Park across from city hall, including naming the park and working on landscaping designs, irrigation and proposals for funding.

The year prior, the committee relandscaped Katie Pierola Sunset Park and raised $1,000 for four sable palms.

ScenicWAVES also was instrumental in helping Bradenton Beach achieve and maintain it’s designation as a Tree City USA city.

McClellan’s support team at the meeting included ScenicWaves member Peg Miller, Florida Forest Service forester Richard Larsen, DOT liaison Darryl Richard and Center of AMI liaison Bruce Butler.

After hearing McClellan and others, Commissioner Ralph Cole responded: “I want to say thanks to everyone who came out tonight and kind of laid out exactly what you do. I’m the one that kind of brought up the conversation the last time. I really appreciate the scenic highway part of it and how it helps us out. I appreciate it.”

Commissioner Jan Vosburgh also thanked the group for its work on initiatives to benefit the city.

Then Cole motioned to approve the Bradenton Beach Scenic Highway 2022 annual report. His motion was seconded by Commissioner Jan Vosburgh and passed unanimously.

Cole did say in a Feb. 6 interview with the Islander

that he felt he had a better understanding of the ScenicWAVES group after its presentation, but also said it should continue to be assessed and defined as it continues as a recommending board to the city.

The next commission meeting will be at noon Thursday, Feb. 16, at city hall, 107 Gulf Drive N.

HB parks committee OKs $3K for sculpture

by ryan Paice

islander reporter

Holmes Beach beautification efforts might be boosted by the addition of a wind sculpture.

The city parks and beautification committee members unanimously voted Feb. 1 to recommend contributing up to $3,000 toward a copper or stainless-steel wind sculpture that would be partially funded by the Anna Maria Island Garden Club.

The proposal is part of the club’s efforts to support beautification across the barrier island by helping to fund the purchase of wind sculptures — created by Utah-based artist Lyman Whitaker and Whitaker Studio — for the three island cities.

The sculptures are wind-resistant up to 90 mph, can be taken down for storage, require little maintenance and produce little noise, according to Missouri-based Leopold Gallery, which sells Whitaker wind sculptures.

Anna Maria commissioners voted in October 2022 to approve up to $12,000 toward the $18,000 cost — with the garden club paying the remaining $6,000 — for two copper wind sculptures.

The sculpture has been ordered and is projected to be installed alongside the flagpole at City Pier Park, 103 N. Bay Blvd., in early March.

P&B members previously discussed adding a sculpture to the center of Veterans Park, located south of city hall, 5801 Marina Drive.

However, P&B chair Sage Kamiya did not favor the location. He recommended placing the sculpture where it would be more visible to the general public, such as along Marina Drive outside city hall.

So P&B members discussed potential locations, settling on a spot to the north of the city hall sign.

P&B member Mary Lange said they should start with a small sculpture due to the committee’s $10,000 annual budget, adding they might be able to work with the garden club for another installation in the future.

New to parks

Holmes beach city clerk stacey Johnston, left, administers the oath of office Feb. 1 to loretta estabrooks, who became the second alternate member of the city’s parks and beautification committee. islander Photo: ryan Paice

T-Shirts $10 @ The Islander, 941-7787978

Lange recommended the committee contribute up to $3,000 for the purchase, which the committee approved.

While the sculpture might not end up in Veterans Park, the park soon may house new signage from the garden club.

Garden club member Claudia Carlson said the group would donate $1,600 for signage to educate people about native and Florida-friendly plants.

P&B members supported the donation.

The P&B will meet next at 10 a.m. Wednesday, March 1, at city hall.

Happy

Come

bradenton beach scenicWaVes members and liaisons display a tree city usa flag during a commission meeting Feb. 2 at city hall. islander Photo: robert anderson

Parrish driver arrested by HBPD for cocaine, heroin possession

by ryan Paice islander reporter

Holmes Beach police arrested Parrish resident Desmine Ross, 23, Jan. 18 on two third-degree felonies for possessing cocaine and heroin, both controlled substances.

Ross also was charged with two first-degree misdemeanors for possessing less than 20 grams of marijuana and drug paraphernalia.

An officer saw a motorist leaving the Manatee Public Beach around 12:45 a.m..

The officer followed the motorist, ran the vehicle’s license plate through databases and found the registered owner had a suspended license.

The officer stopped the motorist, Ross, and smelled marijuana from inside the vehicle. The officer asked Ross if he had a prescription or if there were cannabis products in the vehicle. Ross replied no.

The officer searched the vehicle and found a purse containing two plastic bags, one holding a leafy green substance that tested positive for marijuana. The other contained a white powder that tested positive for cocaine. The purse also contained a jar with 20 pills that tested positive for heroin.

Another bag contained marijuana and a digital scale and a third bag containing marijuana was in the trunk.

The officer arrested Ross and transported him to the HBPD.

The officer also issued Ross a citation for unknowingly operating a vehicle on a suspended license.

Ross was taken to the county jail, where he remained as of Jan. 26 under $4,000 bond.

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

Punishment for a first-degree misdemeanor charge includes up to one year in jail, one year of probation and a fine of $1,000.

An arraignment will be at 9 a.m. Friday, Feb. 24, at the Manatee County Judicial Center in Bradenton.

Bradenton Beach resident arrested for battery

Bradenton Beach police officers arrested resident Cole Banyas, 23, Jan. 29 for battery.

Officers Charles Marose and Steve Masi were dispatched in reference to an alleged battery in the 200 block of Church Avenue.

Marose contacted Banyas and a companion, who said they had an argument that resulted in mutual shoving but neither party wanted to make a complaint.

The next day, the companion signed a complaint affidavit at the BBPD against Banyas, alleging that he put his hands around her neck, choking her during the altercation.

Officer Kyle Orms arrested Banyas Jan. 30 for domestic battery by strangulation. Banyas was transported to the Manatee County jail, where he remained in custody until Feb. 2, when he posted a $2,500 bond.

Under Florida law, domestic battery by strangulation is classified as a third-degree felony. If convicted, punishment includes up to five years imprisonment or probation and a $5,000 fine.

Arraignment will be 9 a.m. Friday, March 10, at the Manatee County Judicial Center, 1051 Manatee Ave W., Bradenton

—robert anderson

Missouri man arrested for DUI in Bradenton Beach

Bradenton Beach police arrested Cliff Hall, 43, of Missouri, Jan. 27 for driving under the influence of alcohol.

Officer Thomas Ferrara noticed a vehicle weaving in and out of the bike lane in the 2000 block of Gulf Drive North and conducted a traffic stop.

The motorist, Hall, smelled of alcohol, according to the police report.

When asked for his license, Hall produced a credit card and appeared unable to understand the officer’s

Streetlife staff reports

Island police reports

Anna Maria

Jan. 27, 875 N. Shore Drive, Rod & Reel Pier, assault. Manatee County Sheriff’s Office deputies were dispatched regarding an incident in which a man tripped and fell over a fishing bag, and was chased by four men after throwing the fishing bag into the water. The man retreated to his car and later offered to pay for the bag.

The MCSO polices Anna Maria.

Bradenton Beach

Jan. 29, 2600 block, Gulf Drive North, larceny. Bradenton Beach police responded to a call concerning a bicycle theft. The complainant said her husband discovered the bicycle was missing when he went out to take a ride. The officer filed a case number.

The Bradenton Beach Police Department polices Bradenton Beach.

Cortez

Jan. 27, 12000 block of 45th Avenue West, burglary. MCSO deputies responded to a reported vehicle burglary in which a wallet and firearm were taken.

request, the report stated.

Ferrara contacted the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office and a deputy arrived to test Hall for intoxication.

Hall was arrested and charged with DUI, which carries the possibility of a $1,000 fine, up to six months in jail, loss of a driver’s license for six months and 50 hours of community service.

Hall was released after paying a $120 bond. His arraignment will be at 8:55 a.m. Tuesday, Feb. 28, at the Judicial Center in Bradenton.

— robert anderson

A case number was assigned and an incident report filed.

Jan. 28, 4000 block of 124th Street West, burglary. MCSO deputies responded to a vehicle burglary involving the theft of multiple items, including a pair of AirPods. A case number was assigned and an incident report filed.

The MCSO polices Cortez.

Holmes Beach

Jan. 24, 6300 block of Flotilla Drive, death investigation. An officer from the Holmes Beach Police Department responded along with Manatee County Emergency Medical Services to reports that a resident had died of a potential overdose. The officer arrived and found the woman’s boyfriend in the bedroom performing CPR and several pill bottles next to the night stand. The officer inventoried the woman’s medications and a medical examiner was called to remove her body.

Jan. 24, 400 block of 71st Street, assisting animal services. An officer responded to reports of a dog bite and found a woman who said her Jack Russell terrier bit her adult son’s face. She said another family member drove him to HCA Florida Blake Hospital in Bradenton. She also said she called Manatee County Animal Services to remove the dog.

Please, see

, next Page

BBPD responds to suicide at Coquina Beach

The Bradenton Beach Police Department responded Jan. 28 to Coquina Beach, where a woman committed suicide.

Police were alerted at 9:33 p.m. by Manatee County Parks and Natural Resources employees, who found a woman’s body in a parked vehicle at the beach as they were alerting parkgoers to the 10 p.m. closing time.

Officers Roy Joslin III and Kyle Orms responded and found the body behind the wheel of the parked car.

The 71-year-old woman, from Palemtto, had killed her cat and then herself. She left a note.

A death investigation was being performed as of Feb. 1 by Detective Lt. Lenard Diaz of the BBPD.

— robert anderson

streetlife From Page 20

Jan. 25, 400 block of 39th Street, arrest warrant. An officer found a vehicle parked illegally and issued a ticket, then searched databases and found the registered owner had an active arrest warrant out of Sarasota County. The officer saw a man matching the owner’s picture return to the vehicle and confirmed his identity. The officer arrested the man and transported him to the HBPD for processing, where a Manatee County Sheriff’s Office deputy arrived to transport the man to the Manatee County jail.

Jan. 25, Elm Avenue West, arrest warrant. Two officers responded to reports of a motor vehicle collision and learned that two people involved had left the area on the free “monkey bus.” The officer contacted the monkey bus operator, whose driver said they had the two onboard and provided a location for the bus, which was stopped. An officer arrived and found the pair, including the woman with an active Manatee County warrant. The officer arrested the woman and transported her to the Manatee County jail.

Jan. 26, Freckled Fin Irish Pub, 5337 Gulf Drive,

missing person. An officer responded to the bar in reference to a citizen assist and found an elderly man matching “missing person” reports out of Manatee County and reportedly suffering from a cognitive disability. The officer confirmed the man’s identity and transferred custody to an MCSO deputy.

Jan. 28, 100 block of 52nd Street, trespassing. An officer responded to reports of a man trespassing and found a man sleeping inside a storage closet at a business. He was reported to be in pain, confused and dehydrated. The man also had defecated and urinated inside and outside the business. The business owner told the man he was trespassed from the property and the officer called EMS to transport him to HCA Florida Blake Hospital in Bradenton.

Jan. 28, 400 block of 81st Street, hit-and-run. An officer responded to reports of a hit-and-run traffic incident and found a man who said he had seen two people driving a golf cart crash into a neighbor’s mailbox. The officer searched the area for security cameras but found none.

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MCSO recognizes life-savers

Holmes beach Police sgt. thomas Fraser, left, and manatee county sheriff’s deputy Jared leggett hold medals awarded to them Jan. 31 for efforts that saved the life of mcso sgt. brett getman, who suffered a heart attack Jan. 19 while at the anna maria substation with leggett. Fraser and leggett both received lifesaving awards and leggett was named the mcso’s deputy of the month for January. islander Photo: courtesy mcso

Jan. 30, HBPD, 5801 Marina Drive, harassment. A woman entered the HBPD to report that her ex-boyfriend was harassing her by repeatedly contacting her. The woman provided text messages, a sworn statement and asked for a restraining order against the man. An officer advised she would have to seek a restraining order through the court, but to contact police if she receives any threats and/or the man continues to try to contact her.

HBPD polices Holmes Beach.

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

Island watch

In an emergency, call 911. To report information, call the MCSO Anna Maria substation, 941-7088899; Bradenton Beach police, 941-778-6311; or Holmes Beach police, 941-708-5804.

Coquina trail users voice concern over damaged, worn terrain

by robert anderson islander reporter

Bradenton resident Barbie Gummin, who regularly walks the Coquina Beach multiuse trail, is raising concerns about the path’s safety.

Gummin reached out to The Islander after seeing a fallen trail jogger Jan. 30.

It was not known whether the man fell due to the trail condition but Gummin said she and others have fallen due to the trail’s uneven surface in places and surface roots.

Referencing a friend who fell on the trail about a year ago, she said, “He really wiped out. He couldn’t walk for maybe a month.”

Gummin said seeing the fallen jogger Jan. 30 motivated her to do something about the trail’s condition.

“This guy, he had just fallen when I was arriving and the EMTs were there. There was blood everywhere,” Gummin said. “He was sort of in shock. He said, ‘I believe I broke my nose.’”

Manatee County operates and maintains Coquina Beach, including the multiuse path.

“I think it’s really important the county do something about it,” Gummin said. “That man, he was older, he could’ve gotten a concussion, he could’ve died.”

The county does have a plan to replace the trail at Coquina.

In a Jan. 26 email to The Islander, Manatee County public information officer Bill Logan said, “We are

Ready to work the lines

rigHt: a jogger receives aid from manatee county emergency medical services after a fall Jan. 30 on the coquina beach multiuse trail in bradenton beach. islander Photo: courtesy barbie gummin

preparing to award this work to our vendor, which is anticipated by the end of March 2023.

Logan

ing the path and removing, replacing and trimming trees as needed.

The project area will follow along the path of the existing trail from Longboat Pass to Fifth Street South.

RoadWatch

Eyes on the road

• Holmes Beach contractor crews continue working near the intersection of Gulf and Marina drives on new amenities, requiring marked detours and closures at Marina and Gulf drives in the city center. Traffic patterns can change. For the latest, check the city’s page on Facebook.

• The Manatee County is working on a force main project along Holmes Boulevard, which can result in some road closures and traffic delays. For more information, go online to amiprojects.io.

• Manatee County is relocating and replacing sewer lines in Bradenton Beach along Gulf Drive from Sixth to 13th streets south. Motorists can expect traffic delays. For more information, go online to amiprojects.io. For area road watch information, go online to swflroads.com or dial 511.

— lisa neff

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There is no timeline for the project as of yet.”

said the proposed work involves the removal of the existing trail, placement of root barriers, repav-

the view looking north from gulf drive south in bradenton beach Jan. 31 as Woodruff & sons gets underway on a gravity sewer line replacement project. the manatee county project will include the replacement of lines from sixth street south to 13th street south, resulting in lane closures and limited use of parking for the public at Cortez Beach. The $7.1 million project is scheduled to be completed in July 2024. Islander

Photo: robert anderson

a photograph of the cortez beach multiuse trail shows damages caused by root intrusion. islander Photo: robert anderson

Bradenton Beach P&Z drafts parameters for outdoor dining

by robert anderson islander reporter

Bradenton Beach staff Feb. 1 served up a draft ordinance on outdoor dining regulations — and setbacks.

The city planning and zoning board Feb. 1 held a hearing on a proposed ordinance aimed at clarifying some land development code stipulations for open air dining.

In previous meetings, the P&Z rendered an informal interpretation as it reviewed a request made by Mike Dolan, owner of the Wicked Cantina, to expand the restaurant’s outdoor dining under a special use permit. As of Feb. 4, Dolan’s request was still pending and the review raised questions about language in the LDC regarding structures and setbacks.

The LDC is the governing document for zoning, setbacks, parking requirements and many other factors affecting land development and use.

And due to vagaries in the LDC, the P&Z recommended a new interpretation of sections that pertained to setbacks for open air dining.

To make a formal interpretation and changes to the LDC the P&Z, sitting as the zoning board of appeals, needed to hold an advertised hearing on the matter.

City staff also needed to prepare a draft ordinance for consideration by the P&Z and the commission.

City building official Steve Gilbert said the city needed to differentiate between open-air dining under a structure and without a structure. The existing LDC language does not differentiate.

In a Feb. 2 interview with The Islander, he said, “Open air dining areas, not located under awnings or roof structures, shall require a 5-foot setback from all property lines, including from Anna Maria Sound in Sarasota Bay, including chairs, tables, umbrellas and other equipment.”

Bradenton Beach city planner Louis Serna said setbacks for under roof dining areas are typically deter-

mined by the zoning and 25-foot setbacks are typically the standard.

Mayor John Chappie spoke during public comment and said it is important to create a buffer between dining spaces and neighboring homes or other private areas.

There was discussion among P&Z members as to whether the language of the LDC should be changed so the number of seats for a dining area would be included on a site plan which would be approved and maintained by the city. Previously seating was listed on a site plan but not maintained by the city.

The P&Z decided to have staff revise the ordinance to include language that would better reflect the new open-air dining requirements.

P&Z member Dan Morhaus motioned to approve a draft ordinance reflecting changes made at the meeting, including revisions to several sections of the ordinance, and directed staff to update the ordinance and advertise it for a public hearing. The motion was seconded by Bill Marrow and passed unanimously.

Gilbert said the final version would go to a public hearing of the P&Z, then a reading by the city com-

bradenton beach mayor John chappie speaks from the podium Feb. 1 to members of the planning and zoning board during their meeting at city hall. islander

Photo: robert anderson

mission and a second and final hearing for the commission.

The next P&Z meeting will be at 1 p.m. Wednesday, March 1, at city hall, 107 Gulf Drive N.

P&Z elects chair, vice chair

The Bradenton Beach Planning and Zoning Board changed seating arrangements Feb. 2, electing Bill Marrow as chair.

Ken McDonough, who was board chair, asked for member interest in serving in the role.

There was a moment of levity when vice chair John Burns suggested the board elect member Fred Bartizol as chair, since he was absent with excuse and “couldn’t defend himself.”

After a brief discussion, Marrow said he wanted to be considered.

Dan Morhaus nominated Marrow and Burns seconded the motion, which passed unanimously.

In a separate motion, Marrow nominated Burns to remain as vice chair. The motion was seconded by Morhaus and also passed unanimously.

— robert anderson

Center football: And then there were three, ace at KRC

by Kevin P. cassidy islander reporter

Football fans may be prepping for Super Bowl Sunday but, closer to home, the Center of Anna Maria Island gridiron action continues.

and interception on defense in the loss.

Horseshoe news

Horseshoe action at the Anna Maria City Hall pits Feb. 1 saw four teams advance to the knockout stage with 3-0 pool-play records.

cassidy

At the almost-midway point of the flag football schedule in both adult and youth flag football leagues, only one team in each division can boast a perfect won-lost record. Sato Real Estate in the 8-10 youth division, Pineapple Market Place in the 11-13 division and Luxury Services in the adult league still are undefeated.

Sato Real Estate has several teams on its heels at 2-1, including Island Real Estate, Solid Rock Construction and Westfall’s Lawn Care & Pest Control in the 8-10 division, while Moss Builders, AMI Coconuts and Cloud Pest Control follow at 1-2. SynLawn completes the standings at 0-3.

Pineapple Market Place leads the 11-13 division but also there’s a trio of teams in second place with 2-1 records, including Moss Builders, Solid Rock Construction and Shady Lady Horticultural Services. Sandhoff Construction, Storage Building Company and Intentional Resilient Intuitive follow at 1-2, while Chick-Fil-A is 0-3.

Action in the 8-10 division kicked off Jan. 30 with Sato showing why they’re unbeaten with a 35-6 thrashing of Moss Builder. The last game of the night saw Solid Rock outscore Island Real Estate 41-33. The game of the week, however, was Westfall Lawn Care & Pest Control’s 30-26 victory over AMI Coconuts.

Kellen Hunt had a huge game for Westfall, throwing for two touchdowns and running for a pair of touchdowns. Westfall also received TD grabs from Carter Hey and Cody Stockton.

Preston LaPensee threw three touchdown passes and caught a TD pass to lead AMI Coconuts, which also received a TD pass and reception from Matthew Perkins and two TD grabs from Kason Davis in the close loss.

Action in the 11-13 division kicked off Jan. 31 with Pineapple Market Place cruising past Solid Rock Construction 48-26 followed by Intentional Resilient Intuitive outscoring Chick-Fil-A 30-19 in the second game of the night. The third game of the evening was another competitive match, as Shady Lady Horticultural Services defeated Sandhoff Construction 26-19. But the game of the week was Storage Building’s 27-21 victory over Moss Builders in the last game of

the evening.

Landon Snyder threw TD passes to Rowen Benford, Mattox Caseman and Liam Proud to lead the offense, while also adding an interception on defense. Mazie Zoller’s extra-point catch completed the scoring in the victory over Storage Building.

Mason Moss threw three TD passes, including two to Joey Seubert and one to Tanner Miller. Bam Gartman had an extra-point catch to complete the scoring for Moss in the loss.

Adult flag football action

Luxury Services tops the standings in the center adult flag football league with a 4-0 record. Briley Mortgage and Moss Builders are close behind at 3-1, while Banks Home Lending and Solid Rock Construction follow at 2-2. Gulf Drive Cafe and Sandbar Restaurant are both 1-3, while Ugly Grouper completes the standings at 0-4.

Action Feb. 2 got started with Sandbar’s emphatic 74-34 victory over Ugly Grouper, dwarfing the 50 points scored by Luxury Services in its 50-32 victory over Banks Home Lending in the third game of the night. Moss Builders edged Solid Rock Construction 28-21 in the last game of the night, but the game of the week was Briley Mortgage’s 28-24 victory over Gulf Drive Cafe.

Matt Briley was the catalyst, throwing one TD pass, while running for three more. Brandin Holcomb added two extra points, while Connor Haughey and Karri Stephens each finished with one extra point to complete the scoring in the victory.

James Herholz threw three TD passes and Steven Pavina caught a TD pass and threw a touchdown pass for Gulf Drive Cafe. Jacob Ferda added a pair of TD grabs and Anthony Mannino finished with a TD catch

The first semifinal match saw Tom Farrington and Gary Howcroft defeat Bob Baker and Adin Shank 22-15, while Del Reese and Bob Brown slipped past Bob Mason and Bob Palmer 23-20. But it was all Farrington and Howcroft in the finals, as they rode five consecutive ringers by Howcroft to cruise to a 23-5 victory over Reese and Brown.

It was another four-team affair during Feb. 4 action at the pits as Farrington and Baker rolled to a 21-10 victory over Mason and Steve Hooper in the first semifinal, while Reese and Lee torched Shank and Ron Gagnon by a 24-4 score in the second semi match. Farrington and Baker cruised to a 21-10 victory in the championship match, giving Farrington bragging rights for the week.

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.

KrC golf news

Beautiful winter weather produced a full week of golf action at Key Royale Club in Holmes Beach and the highlight of the week was the first career hole-inone by Herb Clauhs during his Jan. 27 round.

Facing a cold, stiff wind, Clauhs hit a 7-iron 125 yards straight into the hole, setting off a wild celebration with his playing partners. Congratulations Herb!

Regular golf action teed off Jan. 30 with the men’s modified-Stableford system match. First place was shared by Jim Hitchen and Ken Nagengast, who both finished at plus-4, four points above their average. One point back in second were Rich Salzburg and Bill Shuman, while Ron Buck, Jack Lowry, Gary Risner and Terry Schaefer all finished at plus-2 in a tie for third place.

The women played their weekly nine-hole individual-low-net match in two flights Jan. 31. Nina McSparen carded a 2-under-par 30 to grab first place in Flight A, two strokes ahead of second-place finishers Sue Wheeler and Pam Lowry. Betsey Meyer and Linda Dorsey shared third place at 1-over-par 33.

Terry Westby’s 5-under-par 27 was low-net round of the day, putting her in first place in Flight B. Connie Livanos and Judy Todd both fired 1-under-par 31s to tie for second, while Jackie Gorski and Janet Razze were another stroke back in a tie for third.

Wheeler, Dorsey and Joyce Lathrop all had chipins on the day to highlight their rounds.

A nine-hole scramble Feb. 2 culminated the week at KRC. The team of Dean Christensen, Ray Holton, Gary Risner and Tom Solosky combined on an evenpar 32 to earn clubhouse bragging rights for the day. Bob Blaser, John Kolojeski, Nub Turner and Tom Young took second on a 2-over-par 34, while Brian Comer, Larry Davis, Bob O’Brien and Wayne Patterson were another stroke back in third place.

Key royale golfer Herb clauhs commemorates his first career hole-in-one Jan. 27 on the eighth hole at the club in Holmes beach. islander Photo: courtesy Krc

Calm days, slick waters, combine for trophy catches

by capt. danny stasny islander reporter

With a string of calm days, Anna Maria anglers are venturing into the Gulf of Mexico to find nearshore and offshore action.

smaller fish between the keepers.

Anglers opting for live shrimp — conveniently purchased at the R&R — are hooking into an occasional black drum or redfish.

Lastly, Malfese reports pompano are being caught by unsuspecting anglers casting shrimp away from the pier.

stasny

Those fishing nearshore around artificial reefs, wrecks and ledges are catching a variety of species using live shrimp as bait. Snappers — mangrove, lane and yellowtails — are frequently being caught. Other species — Key West grunts, porgies and sheepshead — are being found, along with juvenile red and gag groupers. Lucky anglers with the right numbers are finding an occasional hogfish.

Those venturing out 20 miles or more are finding plenty of action, too. Bottom fishing is yielding respectable-sized red grouper, as well as a variety of snappers — vermilion, mangrove, yellowtail and lane.

And for anglers wishing to pull on a big fish, African pompano are topping the list, followed by amberjack and cobia.

If fishing in the Gulf isn’t your thing, backwater opportunities are available. Redfish are being caught on artificials and live baits. Casting live shrimp under docks is working with soft plastics on a jig head producing on the flats during negative tides. And while you’re rigged up with a jig, hit the deeper flats to find spotted seatrout and maybe a couple of pompano — if you’re lucky.

On my Just Reel charters, we’re trying to get into the Gulf on the calm days. Fishing depths of 40-50 feet of water with live shrimp as bait is proving good. Species like Key West grunts and porgies are prevalent in these depths, with a nice mix of other fish — sheepshead, mangrove snapper, hogfish and triggerfish.

On days when the Gulf is stirred up, I’m staying in the backwater, where redfish, spotted seatrout, sheepshead and black drum are all taking live shrimp offerings, although the seatrout seem to respond more enthusiastically to jigging with soft plastics.

Capt. Warren Girle is working nearshore in the Gulf around structure — reefs, wrecks and hard bottom — with live shrimp as bait. And Girle’s clients are reeling up a range of species, including sheepshead, snapper and porgies.

In deeper areas, 30-50 feet, Girle is finding some hogfish, as well a juvenile gag and red grouper. Rounding out the bite are Key West grunts.

In the backwater, Girle is casting live shrimp around docks, which are producing redfish, black drum and sheepshead. An occasional snook is being caught, too.

Jim Malfese at the Rod & Reel Pier says he’s

TideWatch

by lisa neff

Red tide bloom diminished

The red tide organism, Karenia brevis, was detected in Southwest Florida during the week ending Feb. 5.

K. brevis was observed at background to medium concentrations in Manatee County, background to very low concentrations in Pinellas County and background to low concentrations in Sarasota County.

There were no reports of red-tide related fish kills or respiratory irritation from Manatee.

For more information, go online to myfwc.com.

he caught Feb. 2 while bottom-fishing with capt. danny stasny of Just reel Fishing charters.

seeing some sheepshead hanging around the pilings, nibbling on barnacles as well as a well-placed live shrimp on a hook.

Pier anglers are finding success on an assortment of other baits, including sand fleas and fiddler crabs. Sheepies 12-14 inches are the norm, with numerous

Capt. Jason Stock is excited to see stellar conditions in the Gulf — calm waters and light breezes. He’s making long treks into the wide-open waters, which is yielding some great catches for anglers happy to take the long ride.

African pompano are one reward that anglers are working out on. These fierce fish are weighing in at 15-25 pounds, which for most anglers is a handful. Larger APs are being caught by really lucky anglers. And if Stock’s clients aren’t worn out from the pompano, he’s turning them onto amberjack and large cobia.

Finally, Stock says bottom fishing the Gulf is proving to be good, as red grouper and various types of snapper are being caught.

Capt. David White is spending his days well offshore while the seas are calm. With slick water conditions, he’s navigating his Contender 30-50 miles offshore. In these remote ventures, White is finding trophy catches of pompano — 20-30 pounds.

Bottom fishing in the deep water is providing action on mangrove and yellowtail snapper, as well as red grouper.

Moving into shallow waters at 5-10 miles in the Gulf, White is finding hogfish, as well as a few sheepshead, while working ledges and reefs.

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

sam, cohen, oz, Joe and Quinn Prehall, visiting the islands from minnesota, fished offshore with shrimp as bait Feb. 2 and hooked up with a snapper dinner. the family of fishers were guided by capt. Warren girle.

fishingonannamaria.com

mark Willis of bradenton shows off a keeper hogfish

Passing ‘Three Piers’ a fever of cownose rays makes its way north Jan. 30 in the gulf of mexico, passing one of three beach jetties known as “three Piers.” according to the Florida museum website, cownose rays prefer shallow, brackish water but tend to swim at the surface. cownose rays are common to anna maria island waters and are known to migrate great distances.

BY GARRETT CHALFIN / EDITED BY WILL SHORTZ

islander Photo: Jacob merrifield

By Lisa Neff

Heartache in paradise

This Valentine’s Day brings some heartache on AMI.

Roses are red.

Violets are blue.

Islanders feel sad.

And it’s because of you know who?

Do you think “you know who” is state Rep. Will Robinson Jr.?

Well, the Bradenton Republican certainly added to the “woe is me” refrain by proposing a study on consolidation with an eye to dissolve island governments along with a bill to nullify Holmes Beach’s prohibition of a multilevel parking garage at the beach, which could possibly topple the height limits established decades ago.

But there’s more woe to recognize and deal with on AMI.

There’s trouble in paradise, where the “them versus us” gulf seems wider than Anna Maria Sound.

There are many conversations taking place about how Robinson is assaulting “quaint AMI” but “quaint AMI” has been disappearing for years as bulldozers crumble small cottages and demolish duplexes to make way for single-family homes that look about as large as some parking garages.

There are conversations taking place about preserving “old Florida” but there are different meanings for “old Florida” and I’m a little surprised that “old Florida” seems so desirable in 2023.

What exactly is the “old Florida” people seek to preserve? And what do transplants from Chicago or New York or Pittsburgh know about “old Florida”?

Sounding an alarm to protect “quaint AMI” or preserve “old Florida” will not win any legislative battles in Tallahassee but working up solutions to the concerns of Robinson’s mainland constituents — some of them former island residents — might turn the fight.

And in turning the fight, we might do some good for the environment.

We’re seeing progress in the island cities at improving travel for pedestrians and bicyclists and

Clicking with nature share your nature photos with the islander. email news@islander.org.

additional infrastructure improvements are on the drawing boards.

But for at least the past 20 years there’s been no significant change encouraging people to travel to AMI by any other means than automobiles.

A couple of years ago, the transportation planning community rallied behind a Sarasota/Manatee Barrier Islands Traffic Study that included recommendations to improve traffic flow and reduce congestion, including:

• Purchasing property for mainland park-and-ride lots near Manatee Avenue and Cortez Road, where bus lines — now fare-free — operate.

• Establishing a water taxi between the mainland and the island, as well as a service connecting Cortez.

• Providing subsidized alternative ride service for island workers via park-and-ride with a shuttle, a water taxi or an “urban cable service.”

• Making transit a priority so buses and shuttles can move more quickly on Cortez Road and Manatee Avenue.

The latter is key.

Manatee services exist but they are poorly promoted and underutilized.

In late 2022, Pinellas County launched the eastwest SunRunner, a rapid-transit bus with dedicated travel lanes connecting downtown St. Petersburg to the Gulf beaches.

The slogan is “from beach to ’Burg and anywhere in between.”

Any day of the week, you’ll see the SunRunner bus loaded with passengers — vacationers from the beach resorts traveling downtown for sightseeing, dining, museum visits and pier walks and St. Pete residents and visitors traveling to the beaches with sunbrellas and coolers.

Each SunRunner bus takes about 50 cars off the road and more than 60,000 rode the service in its first month.

Check it out. Along the route, you can’t miss the SunRunner stations and the enthusiasm for fast, clean, frequent and reliable service.

Then come back to Manatee Avenue in Bradenton and try to find the bus stop near 75th Street West amid weeds, rubble and broken glass.

Might a SunRunner system be a solution for us?

Can we start talking about solutions rather than stopgaps?

More info

To read about the SunRunner service in Pinellas County, go online to www.psta.net/about-psta/projects/ sunrunner/.

Bus service shifts to accommodate season

Manatee County Area Transit Feb. 4 shifted how it operates two bus lines to address seasonal traffic.

Route 3 is the Manatee Avenue bus line, which operates Monday-Saturday.

On that route, MCAT is employing three buses for connections and transfers:

The 304 bus travels between Manatee Public Beach and Village Green Parkway in Bradenton.

The 302 bus travel between Village Green Parkway and the downtown Bradenton station.

The 301 bus travels between the downtown Bradenton station and the Walmart Supercenter.

After 8 p.m., trips between downtown Bradenton

and the beach will operate as usual.

The Route 6 bus line operates between the Desoto Station near 301 Boulevard in Bradenton and Coquina Beach in Bradenton Beach on Cortez Road, 59th Street West and Gulf Drive.

There now is a connection and transfer at HCA Florida Blake Hospital. The Coquina to Blake bus will be 602; the Blake to Desoto bus will be 601.

Route 3 and Route 6 buses do not operate Sundays. The Sunday service on Manatee is the Route 75 Beach ConneXion Shuttle and that will continue to operate.

For more, go online to mymanatee.org/mcat.

RENOVATED HOME JUST STEPS TO BEACH

Walk to the beach from this gorgeous, recently renovated 3BR/2BA home offering an open floor plan, updated kitchen, new flooring and updated baths. Two spacious bedrooms on the main floor and large master suite with private balcony encompasses top floor. A screened porch and shady poolside patio add to entertaining space, gorgeous turnkey furnishings. Great backyard with tropical landscaping and beautiful heated pool. Plenty of parking. $1,950,000

a sunrunner bus is bound for “the ’burg” in Pinellas county. islander courtesy Photo

ITEMS FOR SALE

art Quilt booKs: Fifteen for $20 each. 941-782-8381 after 2 p.m.

nordic tracK treadmill commercial x22i: model # ntl29019.0. excellent condition, two years old, length, 5 feet, 10 inches, width, 3 feet, 4 inches. $2,000. 901-5698685.

electrical serVice entrance. masthead, meter box, 200 amp, $25. 941-7785542.

cHandelier metal liKe-new, $20, chairs, black, soft cushion $15/each and office chair, white, $15. 941-920-2494.

side tables: broWn with glass top. 2/$25. 941-920-2494.

more ads = more readers in the islander.

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 FEB. 8 PUZZLE

ITEMS FOR SALE

ANTIQUE PARTNER DESK: All wood, $500. Inquire at The Islander. 941-778-7978.

Victorian babY carriage: Wood/wicker, great photo or theater prop. benefits moonracer animal rescue. For photos: moonraceranimalrescue@gmail.com.

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

bridge at roser church on Pine avenue, anna maria. Fridays starting in February. call 314-324-5921, if interested.

Want to buY old surveyors’ transit or level on wooden tripod. George, 941-387-0457.

GARAGE SALES

communitY sale: countrY Village clubhouse. 8 a.m. - 2 p.m. saturday, Feb. 11. Cash only. 2725 72nd St. W., Bradenton.

Huge multi-FamilY garage sale. 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Feb. 10-11. 505 bayview drive, Holmes beach.

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.

HELP WANTED

noW Hiring HandYman: Full-time professional services. $15 an hour and up, based on experience. call JayPros, 941962-2874.

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

KIDS FOR HIRE

need an adult night out? call maty’s babysitting services. I’m 16, love kids and have lots of experience. References upon request. 618-977-9630.

Kids For Hire ads are Free for up to three weeks for Island youths under 16 looking for work. ads must be placed in person at the Islander office, 315 58th St. Suite J, Holmes beach.

looKing For an earlY bird? You can read Wednesday’s classifieds on tuesday at islander.org. and it’s Free!

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY

business oPPortunitY: 30-year successful island business, owner ready to sell for health reasons. secure lease. serious inquiries: Biz Op, P.O. Box 145, Anna Maria FL 34216.

HEALTH CARE

PRIVATE DUTY: 25 YEARS of experience. the abilities and skills for any medical position. Please, contact 941-567-8499.

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.

HandYman or cleaning services: Affordable rates. Fred, 941-356-1456.

ProFessional WindoW cleaning: residential, commercial, Free estimates. “We want to earn your business!” 207-852-6163.

marK scaPerotta Pressure washing: Houses, roofs, pool cages, decks, docks, driveways mobile homes … anything. sarasota and manatee county since 2004. 941544-1066. www.markscaperottapressurewashing.com

Hangin’ on ami: We hang artwork, mirrors, tVs, etc. Furniture assembly, island lightscapes and security, landscape lighting and home security installation. Quality service by island residents. Free quotes. 941-720-3126. hanginonami@gmail.com

airPort rides: sarasota, st. Pete, tampa. Call/text, Vita, 941-376-7555.

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.

you can read it all online at islander.org

LAWN & GARDEN

connie’s landscaPing inc residential and commercial. Full-service lawn maintenance, landscaping, cleanups, hauling and more! Insured. 941-778-5294.

barnes la W n and l andscape llc design and installation, lawn and landscape services, tree trimming, mulch, rock and shell. 941-705-1444. Jr98@barneslawnandlandscape.com.

collins landscaPe ligHting: outdoor lighting, landscaping, irrigation services and maintenance. 941-279-9947. MJC24373@ gmail.com.

searaY sPrinKler serVices repairs, additions, drip, sprinkler head/timer adjustments. 941-920-0775.

s H ell deli V ered and spread. Hauling all kinds of gravel, mulch, topsoil with free estimates. Call Larry at 941-795-7775, “shell phone” 941-720-0770.

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.

gri FF in ’ s H ome im P ro V ements i nc. Handyman, fine woodwork, countertops, cabinets and wood flooring. i nsured and licensed. 941-722-8792.

blinds, sHutters, sHades: motorization. 30 years on ami . c all Keith b arnett, Barnett Blinds, 941-730-0516.

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

H and Y man and Painting n o job too small. m ost jobs just right. c all r ichard Kloss. 941-204-1162.

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

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

sarasota interior Painting : We specialize in high-end properties. We love to paint! o wner operated. Fully insured/ licensed. call or text don, 941-900-9398. instagram: sarasotainteriorPainting.

donald P er K ins ’ abracadabra Painting llc i nterior/exterior. 30 years of experience. 941-705-7096.

soutHWest Home imProVement: michigan builder, quality work guaranteed. affordable, timely, within budget. call mike’s cell: 1-616-204-8822.

RENTALS

anna maria gulF beachfront vacation rentals. one- two- and three-bedroom units, all beachfront. www.amiparadise.com. 941-778-3143.

small executiVe oFFice available. approximately 550 sf. Gulf Drive exposure. Water and electric included, $850/month. $500 deposit. 5386 Gulf Drive, Suite 101, Holmes Beach. 941746-8666.

gul F V ie W H ouse : Huge back porch, just steps to beach: Rare annual ( six-plus months) 2-3br/2ba gulf view house! bradenton beach. $2,50/month. First, last, security deposit, $1,500. No pets. Call 941-778-1098 or 212-658-1984. For pictures, email LHB747@gmail.com.

seasonal rental: 3br and 4br/2ba, sunroom, swimming pool garage, laundry. $9,000/ month. Call 347-510-7417.

2br/2ba condominium across street from Holmes beach, pool, hot tub, garage. available Feb. 4-18. $1,800. 901-331-1845.

4br/2ba: Pool, sunroom, garage, laundry. Good location, 7808 Third Ave., W. Bradenton. Call or text, 703-587-4675.

Perico island Patio home for rent. 3br/2ba two-car garage, fully renovated. 30-day minimum. Privacy fence/gate, two miles to ami. #bluerockingchair instagram/fb. 859-771-6423.

H olmes beac H: 3 br /2 ba available Feb. 18- m arch 4. c ozy, quiet, close to beach, on canal. No pool. 231-670-6697.

condo F or rent: June through o ctober. 3 br /2 ba Perico b ay c lub. two-month minimum. c ommunity pool and hot tub. o ne mile from Anna Maria Island. Call Dave at 856-4957200 for details.

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 first 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: aVailable april-december. across from bay, 2 miles from beaches, fully furnished, laundry, all utilities. 941-773-1552.

MARCH CANCELLATION! 3BR/2.5BA elevated home across the street from the beach on the north end of anna maria. month of March, $6,200 plus fees. Green Real Estate, 941-778-0455.

2024 seasonal rental: Just one block from the beach, s ingle-story 2 br /2 ba , screened patio, private backyard. no smoking/no pets. Holmes beach. call 813-8334926.

REAL ESTATE

WINNIE MCHALE, REALTOR, 941-5046146. Rosebay International Realty Inc. You need an aggressive and experienced realtor in today’s market! selling island homes, sarasota and bradenton areas. multi-milliondollar producer! “ s elling Homes - m aking dreams come true.”

isl biz

Dogs by the beach

New to the dining options on Anna Maria Island, Double Deez is bringing a taste of Chicago to the beach.

Double Deez Chicago Style Hot Dogs owner Vince Scaccianoce has been coming to the island with wife Debbie for more than 30 years.

During that period, Scaccianoce formed a vision — to bring authentic Chicago-style food to the island. Scaccianoce is a former police officer who also owned a sandwich stand in suburban Chicago.

“If someone doesn’t know what a real Chicago dog or beef tastes like, they can come and get the it here,” Scaccianoce told The Islander Jan. 31.

Deez’s beef, hot dogs, Polish sausage and poppy seed buns come from Chicago’s Vienna Beef and the beef and burger buns come from Chicago’s Turano Baking Co.

A Chicago dog is a hot dog in a poppy seed bun with white onion, tomatoes, relish, dill pickle, celery salt and yellow mustard.

“Our shirts say ‘NO KETCHUP.’ If you want to ruin your hot dog, the ketchup is on the table,” Scaccianoce said.

Italian beef and sausage are unique to Chicago because of the seasoned beef and juice. Scaccianoce makes his own. And, if you really want it the Chicago

Norman Realty

OFFERING THE BEST SELECTION OF SALES & RENTALS ON ANNA MARIA ISLAND SINCE 1978

www.mikenormanrealty.com

31o1 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach 800-367-1617 | 941-778-6696

Boutique rises from beach vendor to brick-and-mortar

islander rejane monetti celebrates with a ribbon-cutting Jan. 14 the grand opening of her monetti apparel boutique on bridge street in bradenton beach with family, friends, neighbors and her support network at the anna maria island chamber of commerce. the chamber said monetti opened the storefront, 119th bridge st., after the closure in 2022 of the beach market, where she was a vendor. For more information, call 941-713-3947 or email monetti@ monettiapparel.com. islander Photo: courtesy ami chamber

The Slim’s Eagles party includes everything: Drinks, food, favors, tax and gratuity, with indoor and outdoor seating and plenty of TV screens all around.

Not to be outdone, the Freckled Fin has a big party planned — Irish style. They’ll have free Land Shark beer running up to the first score in the game and plenty of specials.

And there’s bound to be a rowdy time for Packer’s fans at the BridgeTender Inn & Dockside Bar in Bradenton Beach, where they hold court through the football season.

owner Vince scaccianoce Jan. 31 shows off his chicago style at the new double deez restaurant in Holmes beach. islander Photo: Joe becht way, order the Italian beef with sweet peppers or giardiniera and ask for it wet — dipped in the au jus.

The menu also includes burgers and sloppy Joe’s made by Debbie Scaccianoce.

The restaurant is located in the space once occupied by Mr. Bones at 3009 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. The phone number is 941-251-5595. Hours are noon-8 p.m. Wednesday-Sunday.

— Joe becht

Meanwhile at Slim’s

It’s Super Bowl weekend coming up and there’s a buzz on the island among football fans who might be torn about where to watch the big game.

Make no mistake, Slim’s Place lays claim to being the AMI home of the Eagles. And with their team in the big game, they’ve got a whopper of a party planned. However, there’s only reserved seating — no ticket, no party, which we hear will be a doozie.

Once Upon A Beach

And there’s more

The Chateau AM, the restaurant at the Waterline/ Marriott hotel/condo in Holmes Beach, has expanded its reach to Sarasota.

There’s the original, the Chateau on the Lake, which operates seasonally on Lake George at Bolton Landing, New York.

Jennifer and Buddy Foy Jr. run the operations and with the Sarasota opening Feb. 4, they’ve got their plates full.

Meanwhile, Chateau AM is serving a delicious Saturday-Sunday brunch — yes, I can attest to the deliciousness — with hours of 10:30 a.m.-2 p.m.

And their Valentine’s dinner offering is online — just search for Chateau AM.

— bonner Joy

BizCal compiled by lisa neff THIS WEEK

Thursday, Feb. 9

11:30 a.m. — Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce luncheon, Avocado’s Cocina Mexicana and Bar, 6510 Cortez Road W., Bradenton. Fee applies. Info: 941-778-1541.

SAVE THE DATE

Feb. 23, 5-7 p.m., AMI Chamber business card exchange, Center of Anna Maria Island, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria. Feb. 27, 7:30 a.m., Manatee Chamber Pancakes and Politics, IMG Academy Golf Club, Bradenton. Info: 941-748-3411. Fees generally apply and reservations are required.

Thinking about what is best for your rental property? If so, choose QUALITY over quantity, and get in touch with us!

941 462 4016

December tourist gift: bed tax tops prior years

by lisa neff islander editor Ho, ho, ho!

The tourist tax revenues for December 2022 show accommodation hosts, business owners, tax collectors and tax spenders had plenty to be merry about during the holidays.

The Manatee County Tax Collector’s office released December 2022 collection numbers Feb. 1 for the tourist tax or bed tax — the 5% tax collected on accommodation rentals of six months or less.

The third month of the 2022-23 fiscal year generated $2,574,198 in tourist development tax in Manatee County.

The amount is 28.92% more than the $1,996,281 generated in December 2021.

Holmes Beach topped collections on Anna Maria Island in December, generating $580,272, about 22.54% of the countywide total.

Anna Maria accounted for about 9.44% of the collections, bringing in $243,057, and Bradenton Beach generated $132,450 or 5.15%.

The tax is collected by resort owners, landlords

and vacation rental property managers. Some other numbers for December:

• Unincorporated Manatee County generated $1,156,474 or 44.93%;

• Bradenton generated $267,994 or 10.41%;

• Longboat Key generated $182,072 or 7.07%;

• Palmetto generated $11,877 or 0.46%.

The collection fee or commission on the tax is 3%, so the net collection for December 2022 was $2,496,972.

Collections for the first quarter of the fiscal year — October to December — total $6,164,483.

According to state law, resort tax revenues must be used to boost and develop tourism, including funding for the Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau and the Bradenton Area Convention Center and tourism-related entities such as Realize Bradenton and the Pittsburgh Pirates, as well as supporting projects, such as beach renourishment and construction of the new Anna Maria City Pier.

The county tourist development council — which will meet at 9 a.m. Monday, Feb. 13, at the county

barry grooms, left, Karen magee, rob riley, proprietor, rob self, lead technician, Josh self, technician and tyler riley. Front center, showing off her shirt, stacy slef. rob’s daughter reese and wife gina riley.

Nine years and counting

grooms motors is celebrating nine years in Holmes beach but that doesn’t count the years prior to the reopening, when the grooms family operated at the same location for many years. barry grooms’ parents operated the shop 1968-99. Barry reopened the garage in 2013 with a force headed by Rob Riley and they’re still tuning up customers, as barry says, “like nothing changed.” islander courtesy Photo

PropertyWatch

222 Periwinkle Plaza, Anna Maria, a 2,107 sq ft 3BR/2BA home on a 9,374 sq ft lot built in 1961 sold 1/19/2023 by Bernet to Kaleta for $2,075,000, list price $2,199,000.

132 48th St., Holmes Beach, a 1,494 sq ft 3BR/2BA pool home on a 4,500 sq ft lot built in1952 sold 10/14/2022 by Pena to 132 48th St LLC for $1,100,000, list price $1,280,000.

514 71st St., Holmes Beach, a 1,547 sq ft 3BR/2BA pool home on a 9,783 sq ft lot built in 1962 sold 12/22/2022 by Basiley to Samuels for $1,800,000, list price $1,850,000.

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

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Tourist tax collections

December 2018: $1,139,445

December 2019: $1,177,171

December 2020: $1,414,742

December 2021: $1,996,281

December 2022: $2,574,198 source: manatee county tax collector

administration building in Bradenton — recommends how to spend the money to the board of county commissioners and the BOCC has the final say.

Island and county elected officials have said a goal for the 2023 legislative session is to lobby to broaden how the tax dollars can be used.

The January numbers will be released in early March.