The Islander Newspaper E-Edition Wednesday, Jan. 13, 2021 by The Anna Maria Islander Newspaper

VOLUME

JAN. 13, 2021 Free

NO. 12

the Best news on anna maria island Since 1992 astheworldterns. 6

Q&A 011321

islander.org

privateers launch 50-year celebration

islanders get vaccine. 4 county opposes lockdowns. 4

Meetings. 4 BB reviews beach-tobusiness shuttle. 5

Opinions. 6 10-20 YeARS AGo

Looking back. 7

HB planners dip into sea level rise. 8 HB community garden plows forward. 9

What’s up on ami? 10

Happenings announcements. 11

Turn to page 15 for info and more photos.

Treehouse owners defy city, plead for help

property owners Richard Hazen and Lynn Tran-Hazen filed a writ of certiorari with the Lawsuits come with a cost. U.S. Supreme Court Dec. 22, 2020, in a furA treehouse built without permits in ther attempt to keep the “Robinson CrusoeSchool choice looms. 13 Holmes Beach in 2011 has resulted in four style” treehouse — illegally built within the pending lawsuits with the city and Florida setback for the state’s erosion control line Gathering. 14 Department of Environmental Protection — from being removed by the city. lasting nearly 10 years, with a new plea by A writ of certiorari is a request that the the treehouse owners to the U.S. Supreme lower court send up the case for review by Court. the high court. The case in the lower court Obituaries. 14 Acting without legal representation, was denied a review and hearing in spite of Legislators review county priorities. 12

GoodDeeds. 14

Privateers re-launch 50-year anniversary. 15

Streetlife. 16 Ami ToURiSm: 18

ISL BIZ:

18-19

more sand to come. 20

Smoking hot issue. 21 replay: 2020 sports. 22 Varied catch, temps. 23 CLASSIFIEDS. 24

PropertyWatch. 26

NYT puzzle.

Islander Photo: Ryan Paice

By chrisann allen islander reporter

numerous opportunities afforded the Hazens to correct defaults in their case. More recently, the city declined to renew the Hazens’ vacation rental certificates for their four short-term rentals — based on noncompliance with the treehouse orders, including demolition and daily fines — and the Hazens apparently have defied the city by continuing to allow occupancy at Angelino’s Sea Lodge. turn to TreeHOUSe, Page 3

Galvano leaves Senate behind, shares roots, love for Ami By chrisann allen islander reporter

“Cortez Road was dirt and shell at the time my dad opened his business,” recalled former state Senate President Bill Galvano, who was term-limited out in November 2020. Galvano said Dec. 29 that his family lived on Anna Maria Island’s north end before moving to Palma Sola during his childhood. Galvano said there comes a time when we are faced with allowing our community “to grow upon itself or morph into something different.” “But at the same time, we have had to face the reality — which is a positive reality, in my opinion, that people are coming to Florida in tremendous numbers and have been now for decades.” manatee county commissioners carol Whitmore, left, Vanessa Baugh, Betsy Benac, misty Along those lines, Galvano influenced Servia and Steve Jonsson look on feb. 20, 2019, as state Senate President Bill galvano, legislation for evacuation routes, water, r-Bradenton, shares with them his view from the podium in the Senate chambers in talturn to GaLVaNO, Page 2 lahassee. islander file Photo

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galvano continued from page 1

sewer and infrastructure improvements during his time in office. “Infrastructure is important,” he said. “There are certain things that government needs to be doing for the people and infrastructure is a part of that.” In the past two years, as Senate president, he advocated for and accomplished funding assistance to Anna Maria for a new city pier, $2.2 million for local stormwater improvements and $2.7 million for seagrass mitigation in Bradenton Beach. “Wherever I could help the island be prepared and be able to handle the tourists and the new residents, I have,” he said. Additionally, Galvano championed beach renourishment over the past two decades, during three terms as a representative and then as senator. “That changed the quality of life on the island and

Q&A 011321

it’s ability to sustain itself,” he said. “I made sure to always fight for that funding.” Red tide research and mitigation programs also were a major drive for Galvano during his time in office. He was elected to the Florida House of Representatives in 2002 for District 68, covering mostly Manatee County. He remained in office as a representative until he was termed out in 2010. During his time in the House, Galvano established the Bay Area Legislative Delegation, made up of 38 state legislators representing Manatee, Sarasota, Hillsborough, Pasco, Pinellas, Polk, Citrus and Hernando counties. In 2012, Galvano was elected to the Senate for District 26, which would later become District 21,

covering Manatee County and a portion of Hillsborough County. He was reelected but term-limited out in 2020. Galvano was named the Senate majority leader for the 2014-16 term and was elected by his peers to serve as Senate president for the 2018-20 term. “I love our county. I love the cities within our county,” Galvano said. “I think it is one of the greatest places on Earth and, when I was in Tallahassee, I was so proud to represent this area. I have represented a lot of areas around the state, but there is one place you call home, and this is it for me.” As for the future, Galvano says he is focusing on his law practice. “I have no political plans right now,” he said Jan. 2. “I want to focus my energy here.”

County commissioners honor longtime lawmaker

Manatee County commissioners honored retired state Sen. Bill Galvano as a “stalwart champion” as the man who represented Anna Maria Island ended his The Islander poll political career in the Legislature. Galvano served in the House and Last week’s results Senate, including as Senate president, If the island had a signature menu item, it would and was term-limited out of office in be: November. 73%, Grouper sandwich In a December resolution designat7%, Smoked mullet ing a street in East Manatee as “The Galvano 7%, Stone crabs Honorable State Senate President Bill 5%, Key lime pie Galvano Parkway,” county commissioners heralded the 4%, Grilled burger achievements of William “Bill” Saint Galvano: 4%, Other • After winning election to the House in 2002, he “quickly earned a reputation as a reasonable, thoughtThis week’s question ful lawmaker with a solid grasp of the issues.” What’s the best movie featuring local scenes? • Galvano was a “champion for Manatee County A. “Great Expectations” 1998. residents. He fought for health care for children and B. “On an Island with You” 1948. supported the disabled and helped secure funding for C. “Palmetto” 1998. those in crisis to create a resource center, the Turning D. “Out of Time” 2003. Points Bill Galvano Center” in Bradenton. E. Haven’t seen any of them. • Galvano established the Bay Area Legislative To take the poll, go online to islander.org.

Delegation, consisting of 38 state legislators and creating a formidable voting bloc in Tallahassee. • He spearheaded the creation of the Tampa Bay Regional Transit Authority to advance the transportation needs in Manatee, Hernando, Hillsborough, Pasco and Pinellas counties. • He helped create the Florida Office of Child Protection and established a statewide approach to promoting adoption and addressing neglect, abuse and abandonment. • After winning election to the Senate in 2012, he worked to enhance funding for state universities. • He sponsored the Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School Public Safety Act, legislation intended to address mass shootings, such as the one at the school in Parkland. • And, he “became instrumental in obtaining millions of dollars in state funding for many local projects, including beach renourishment” and money to expand 44th Avenue East to alleviate east-west traffic on State Road 64 and SR 70. — Lisa Neff

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Sinking shrimpers calls for rescue, Egmont-Longboat cleanup follows By Ryan Paice Islander Reporter

The U.S. Coast Guard rescued three mariners Jan. 8 from a sinking Versaggi Shrimp Corp. trawler, the Warrior, two miles west of Anna Maria Island. “Coast Guard Sector St. Petersburg received a call on VHF-Channel 16 from the Warrior operator reporting they had 2-feet of water on board and pumps were unable to keep up with the flooding,” a Coast Guard news release stated. A Coast Guard boat from Cortez and a helicopter from Clearwater responded about 7:50 p.m. Friday, Jan. 8, and evacuated three crew to a dock in Cortez “with no medical concerns,” according to the release. Debris from the Warrior was scattered in the Gulf of Mexico and Tampa Bay from Egmont Key to Longboat Key, according to a chart from the Coast Guard. Anna Maria’s northernmost point is nearest the site of the sunken shrimper in Tampa Bay. A caller reported to The Islander the following morning that some debris had reached the Rod & Reel Pier in Anna Maria. Mayor Dan Murphy wrote in a Jan. 10 email to The Islander that public works staff, with help from Manatee County, had removed most of the debris from its beaches. “As to the remains of the trawler, salvage operatreehouse continued from page 1

The Hazens also reside at the multi-unit property in the 2800 block of Avenue E in Holmes Beach. They are on a path toward a new hearing before a city-appointed magistrate, where they could be fined for renting without a vacation rental certificate. And now, the owners have initiated a web campaign to raise funds to help with their fight. The online funding page was created Jan. 2. On it, Tran-Hazen wrote, “My husband, Richard and I need to raise funds for our Tree of Love for Justice and Liberty. Under color of laws, we are losing our rights to use and enjoy our property, to grow trees and plants

Anna Maria public works manager Dean Jones Jan. 10 directs a frontend loader carrying debris from the wreckage of 70-foot Warrior shrimp boat in Tampa Bay near Bean Point to the parking lot for the Anna Maria Island Historical Society Museum, 402 Pine Ave., where the debris will be held for disposal. Islander Photo: Courtesy Anna Maria

tions with divers are scheduled to begin today (Jan. 10) just off of Bean Point, where the trawler ran aground,” Murphy wrote. He noted that the fuel tank (maximum capacity 7,000 gallons of diesel fuel) remained with the hull in approximately 14 feet of water. “Still, this tank continues to pose a potential threat to our beaches should it rupture prior to or during salvage operations,” he added. In the meantime, the city placed debris from the

wreckage into dumpsters near the Anna Maria Island Historical Society museum, 402 Pine Ave., for later disposal. Murphy wrote that Versaggi’s insurance adjuster would inspect the debris “this week” and would cover the cost of the city’s cleanup work. Another caller, Tjet Martin, reported observing large amounts of debris strewn along the shoreline “as far as I could see” in Bradenton Beach.

that we love, to rent for income and to have equal access to fair justice faster than sea level rise, storm erosion or climate change.” In a Jan. 7 interview with The Islander, Tran-Hazen said the city and the DEP have until Feb. 3 to respond to the certiorari. According to Tran-Hazen, the couple has spent more than $170,000 on legal fees for their lawsuits and can no longer afford attorney representation. Additionally, the city ordered a $500 per day fine Oct. 16, 2020, until the treehouse comes down. The city has noticed the couple that their vacation

rental license for the property will not be renewed until they comply with city orders, including payment of nearly $100,000 in code violation fines. “We have issues that we raised in our document that we feel are very important to pro se litigants like us that can no longer afford lawyers,” Tran-Hazen said.

Correction to high court

A story in the Jan. 6 Islander incorrectly stated the owners of the beachfront treehouse in Holmes Beach had filed a plea with the Florida Supreme Court. The plea was filed with the U.S. Supreme Court.

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Islanders get COVID-19 vaccinations, lottery signup rolls out

domized names will be selected from the pool, according to a county news release. • Phone representatives will call registered seniors in the pool to book appointments. • Once an appointment is set, the following is required for vaccination: An email receipt or unique number issued from the 311 call center; a signed DOH consent form available at mymanatee.org/vaccine; and a valid ID showing age 65 or older.

By ChrisAnn Allen Islander Reporter

The pool flooded fast. Now the floodgates are opened. Although some islanders made the “shot list” before implementation of a new system. During a Jan. 6 special meeting, Manatee County commissioners unanimously voted to launch a lottery signup system for the Moderna vaccination against the novel coronavirus. The change — from an event signup to a lottery pool — came in light of limited doses and also technical difficulties on the county website, mymanatee. org, where hundreds of applicants overwhelmed the system Dec. 30 in their attempt to obtain the first 300 vaccinations for those 65 and older. People shared frustrations on social media as the website indicated “tickets” for the vaccinations were “sold out.” Holmes Beach residents Melinda and Craig Bradway were able to get in under-the-wire on the booking site Eventbrite, where 300 tickets were offered first come, first served. “I was just one of those fortunate people that got in there at the right time,” Craig Bradway said. “It took me about 20 minutes to get our appointment scheduled.” He and his wife, who is 66, received their first doses of the vaccination Jan. 2. Both said they felt no side effects from the shots, which require a second dose about 28 days later. The Bradways said the operation was smooth, with masked medical staff at each step of the process. “There were nurses everywhere,” Melinda Bradway said. “It was very well run. Manatee County did a very good job.” Craig Bradway said it felt relieving: “It definitely felt like we took the first step toward getting our lives back together, you know?” Gov. Ron DeSantis Jan. 7 visited the county’s vac-

A client receives a dose of the Moderna vaccination against the novel coronavirus Jan. 7 at Tom Bennett Park in Bradenton. Islander Photo: Courtesy DOHManatee

cination site at Bennett Park. “Here, what you see is a very well-run, very efficient operation,” he said during a news conference, which involved Dr. Jennifer Bencie, DOH-Manatee health officer, who has provided the public with information on COVID-19 since the first diagnosis in the county in March 2020. At the Jan. 6 meeting, Jake Saur, county public safety director, said the county plans to administer 2,000-3,000 vaccines per day when a supply line is secured. He said the state was supposed to receive 240,000 doses the week of Jan. 11 but could not ensure how the vaccine would be distributed to the county. Starting Jan. 7 at 10 p.m., up to two people at a time, 65 years or older, could enlist in a standby pool online at vax.mymanatee.org or by calling the county’s 311 call center 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Here is the county protocol as of Jan. 7: • When a new shipment of vaccines arrives, ran-

Cases reach second peak in Manatee County Between Jan. 1-7, 1,586 new cases of COVID-19 were reported by the DOH-Manatee County — more than twice the amount of new cases documented the week prior. As of Jan. 7, 140 people in Holmes Beach, 59 people in Bradenton Beach and 42 people in Anna Maria had tested positive for the virus since the first case was reported in the county in March. According to metrics provided by the DOH as of Jan. 7, 24,278 people tested positive for the virus in Manatee County, with 439 fatalities and 1,129 hospitalizations. Of those testing positive, 427 were nonresidents, compared with 355 the week prior. With cases surging and vaccinations underway, public health officials stress the need for all people to continue practicing safety measures, including social distancing and wearing face masks. Anna Maria and Holmes Beach mandate that people more than 6-years-old wear face coverings when closer than 6 feet to another person outside their household. Bradenton Beach did not provide a mandate, instead requesting that people comply with businesses that request safety measures. The county revoked its mask mandate after a DeSantis order that prevented local governments from collecting fines for violations of COVID-19 ordinances. The governor later extended that order.

County commissioners vote to oppose potential lockdowns By Ryan Paice Islander Reporter

Manatee County commissioners are gearing up their opposition to any potential lockdown. Commissioners voted 4-3 Jan. 7 to direct their chair, Vanessa Baugh, to sign a letter Commissioner Kevin Van Ostenbridge wrote to Gov. Ron DeSantis expressing appreciation for his efforts and stating opposition to potential future COVID-related lockdowns as a new administration takes control at the White House. Commissioners Carol Whitmore, Misty Servia and Reggie Bellamy voted “no.” Commissioners Baugh, Van Ostenbridge, James Satcher and George Kruse voted “yes.” Van The letter claims government Ostenbridge

Meetings

Anna Maria City Jan. 26, 10 a.m., historic preservation. Anna Maria City Hall, 10005 Gulf Drive, 941708-6130, cityofannamaria.com.

County Commissioner Carol Whitmore speaks Jan. 7 against Kevin Van Ostenbridge’s letter to the governor. Islander Photo: Courtesy Manatee County

lockdowns are ineffective at preventing the spread of the novel coronavirus, limit religious freedoms, harm the economy and “produce a host of unintended consequences,” such as increased domestic violence, drug and alcohol abuse. Ostenbridge’s letter also states opposition to “ill-

Manatee County Jan. 19, 9 a.m., county commission (work). Jan. 26, 9 a.m., county commission. Bradenton Area Convention Center, 1 Haben Blvd., Palmetto, 941-748-4501, mymanatee.org.

Bradenton Beach Jan. 20, 1 p.m., planning and zoning. Of interest Jan. 21, noon, city commission. Jan. 12, 10 a.m.-noon, Florida Department of Bradenton Beach City Hall, 107 Gulf Drive N., Transportation District 1 five-year work program 941-778-1005, cityofbradentonbeach.com. meeting, 801 N. Broadway Ave., Bartow. Online also an option. Visit swflroads.com. Holmes Beach Jan. 18, Martin Luther King Jr. Day, government Jan. 26, 6 p.m., city commission. offices will be closed. Holmes Beach City Hall, 5801 Marina Drive, Jan. 25, 9:30 a.m., Sarasota/Manatee Metropoli941-708-5800, holmesbeachfl.org. tan Planning Organization, TBD. Feb. 1, 9 a.m., Manatee County Tourist DevelopWest Manatee Fire Rescue ment Council, Bradenton Area Convention Center, 1 Jan. 19, 6 p.m., district commission. Haben Blvd., Palmetto. WMFR administration building, 6510 Third Please, send meeting notices to calendar@ Ave. W., Bradenton, 941-761-1555, wmfr.org. islander.org and news@islander.org.

advised school closures.” “We are united with you in your opposition to government-imposed lockdowns and we will echo this sentiment if and when any government-imposed restrictions are handed down from the Biden administration in the new year,” reads the letter. Van Ostenbridge, who represents Anna Maria Island, Cortez and other parts of west Manatee, first proposed the letter in November 2020. He moved to direct Baugh to sign the letter, saying the commission had ample time to consider the document. Whitmore spoke in opposition. She said it was created with “ill will,” since Van Ostenbridge had proposed the idea to convince Whitmore — who in November was board chair— to call a special meeting to discuss the letter. At the resulting Nov. 19 special meeting, Van Ostenbridge unexpectedly moved to put county administrator Cheri Coryea on notice for termination in January. Baugh, Kruse and Satcher supported Van Ostenbridge’s effort, but the move ended in December after Kruse then spoke against it. “I can’t put my name on that letter,” Whitmore said. “I think it’s tarnished. …I wanted something more positive to go to the governor.” Whitmore proposed a letter to DeSantis that she wrote to express support for the governor’s efforts to secure funding from the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act. Several commissioners, including Kruse, Bellamy and Servia, supported deferring a decision and bringing both letters before the board Jan. 12. But Baugh seconded Van Ostenbridge’s motion to approve his letter, forcing a vote on his letter. Whitmore moved to also send the letter she composed and Kruse supported the motion, which passed 7-0. There was no public comment. Commissioners were next scheduled to meet Tuesday, Jan. 12 in Palmetto.

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Bradenton Beach reviews parking shuttle in 2nd month By ryan Paice islander reporter

The Bradenton Beach tram has been shuttling passengers between the beach and the business district for two months. But much about the Community Redevelopment Agency’s service remains unfinished. CRA members Jan. 6 discussed improving service with a route map, signage and a more detailed monthly report on the tram’s performance. The tram has built up a small but consistent ridership, averaging 108 people per day, according to its operator, Easy Parking Group. From Nov. 11-30, the first days of operation, tram operators recorded 1,994 passengers — that’s about 104.9 passengers per day. From Dec. 1-27, tram operators serviced 2,980 passengers — 110.3 per day — aboard the low-speed vehicle. The tram set its highest single-day ridership of 173 passengers on Christmas Day. The report did not provide ridership information for Dec. 28-31. The most popular stops along the route were “beach parking,” the Bradenton Beach Police Department on Highland Avenue and the Daiquiri Deck at 107 Bridge St. The report lacked details on peak ridership. City attorney Ricinda Perry, appointed by the CRA

Holmes Beach resident andy Walker cruises the Bradenton Beach commercial district Jan. 6 in a small tram seeking passengers for the beach-business shuttle — a pilot project that launched late last year. islander Photo: ryan Paice

to coordinate the project, told the CRA membership that revenue for advertisements on the tram fell short of expectations.

BB Cra adds pavers, hits streetlight roadblock By ryan Paice islander reporter

The Bradenton Beach Community Redevelopment Agency is beginning 2021 by putting the finishing touches on some work from 2020. CRA members voted 6-0 Jan. 6 to spend up to $70,000 to repair brick pavers in some of Bridge Street’s parking areas and crosswalks and use the remainder of the pavers purchased last year to pave areas near Lou Barolo Park, at the intersection of Highland Avenue and Fourth Street North, and the city’s public works department. CRA member Ed Chiles, a local restaurateur, was absent with excuse. The pavers were intended to improve drainage, as well as the district’s aesthetic. The CRA purchased enough for Bridge Street, a public parking area on First Street North and another area it hadn’t agreed upon until now. City attorney Ricinda Perry, appointed to coordinate the paver project, told CRA members there are issues with how thermoplastics were applied to the roadway late last year, after pavers and fresh asphalt were laid. Perry said some traffic and parking lines are not straight and need to be redone, and some pavers were painted over and need to be replaced. She recommended the public works department touch up the thermoplastic striping, but said the CRA

#AMItogether #AMItogether #AMItogether #AMItogether #AMItogether #AMItogether #AMItogether #AMItogether

needed to hire a contractor to repair damaged pavers. Perry said the work provides an opportunity to place the excess pavers, but added that it is unclear how many square feet of bricks remain. In addition to agreeing to place parking pavers near Lou Barolo Park and the public works department, the CRA unanimously voted to spend up to $50,000 for new curbing along Bridge Street. Delayed streetlights The CRA agreed last fall to pay up to $40,000 for new lighting on Bridge Street, but the streetlights might not arrive until after spring. CRA members voted 6-0 Jan. 6 to open a zerointerest credit line with Sarasota-based Rexel to pay for the streetlights over the 30 days following their delivery to the city. The streetlights will take 8-12 weeks to manufacture and deliver. The CRA’s purchase was supposed to go through last fall so the materials would arrive before spring but the deal fell through, delaying action. BridgeWalk Resort owner Angela Rodocker told the CRA she supported purchasing the streetlights, but asked the agency to minimize the impact of construction during the spring tourist season. Perry said the manufacturer could be asked hold the streetlights to avoid delivery during the height of tourist season.

The tram is intended to transport people between the large parking lots at the Coquina and Cortez beaches and the CRA district, where parking is limited. The service is functionally similar to the island’s fare-free trolleys but the route is limited to the beach parking lots and Bridge Street and the surrounding commercial district. The CRA had hoped to subsidize its budget for the tram with ad revenue. Five merchants agreed to advertise on the tram for a total of $2,475 per month — far below the $8,675 monthly cost of running the service. “The money’s not there,” Perry said. “We’re asking. We’re just not receiving as much as we hoped when it comes to advertising.” “Nobody wants to invest in a concept, they want to invest in proof,” she added. “We’re still building that proof.” BridgeWalk motel owner Angela Rodocker suggested the CRA advertise to attract riders. Bradenton Beach Marina owner Mike Bazzy, who also spoke during public comment, said the CRA should place signage at regular stops that shows the tram’s route and provides directions for riders. Perry said the CRA would need more information from Easy Parking on stops, but she hoped to identify specific stops before the next meeting in February. CRA members voted 6-0 to request Easy Parking provide additional details about monthly operations. CRA member Ed Chiles, a local restaurateur, was absent with excuse. The board did not discuss Easy Parking’s report, but CRA Chair/City Commissioner Ralph Cole requested that the company’s owner, Joshua La Rose, attend the agency’s monthly meetings to provide service updates. The tram is set to cost the CRA $113,150 over the course of the yearlong pilot program. The CRA’s contract with Easy Parking will expire Nov. 1, 2021, but can be extended or terminated at any time. The tram runs 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Sunday-Thursday and 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Friday-Saturday. The service also services employees 10-11 p.m.

RoadWatch eyes on the road

The Florida Department of Transportation and Manatee County posted the following: • Cortez Road and 119th Street West in Cortez: Work to realign the intersection of 119th Street West at Cortez Road/State Road 684 continues into February, with shifting trafﬁc patterns and construction. For the latest road watch information, go online to fl511.com and swflroads.com or dial 511. Reminder, a fare-free trolley runs daily on AMI. — Lisa neff

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Opinion

Our

2021 can be haunting

We just have to survive the growing spread of the coronavirus and the surge from Donald Trump to take over the American government “for the people.” I hope we move forward with the outcome to the test of our government and leaders resulting in a stronger Democracy. I remain hopeful. We may have some beleaguered elected officials in our midst, but most go humbly from the dais when the time comes and few come back with an agenda. What’s worried me from time to time — and remember, I’ve been watchdogging the municipal governments on Anna Maria Island for almost 30 years, much longer than any past or present elected officials — is that the changes to the government’s legislative body results in well-meaning new folks not knowing or recognizing the path set out by their predecessors. Take for instance the passing from one administration to the next when Holmes Beach switched from a tiny city hall to the monolith that serves us now. An architect’s plan — stamped and signed by the commission in 1996 — mapped out the property and the building that was designed to house the administration, police, building and public works departments. However, before the doors opened, the city had expanded personnel beyond capacity. Public works took over and now occupies the area where once three buildings housed the entire “works.” Another group of city commissioners in 1998 proclaimed the recreation field, which included a baseball diamond, to be named Birdie Tebbetts Field, but both a custom sign and a lighted flag pole, paid with donations, are apparently missing. A regulation soccer pitch was sacrificed with the baseball diamond and now there are so many fences and small pocket areas that the city field — where everyone struggled for years to maintain a sense of open space — resembles a chain-link maze. So now comes a plan by a new group of beautification volunteers to create a community garden on city-owned land adjacent to Grassy Point Preserve. But not so fast. The mayor and at least one commissioner must recall the vote in 2017 to buy the land and the plan that included restrooms, a gazebo and parking at the preserve entrance. And those amenities about racing boats are sorely needed, especially for school visits. I personally enjoy listening to a few moments of So not so fast 2021. the extreme power and sounds of thunder produced Let’s try to move forward with respect to the past by performance boats blasting by Anna Maria Island or face the wrath of all those who worked so hard to from time to time. see good things come to fruition. Honestly, these awesome boats make me smile. I’m quite sure Billie Martini is watching over us. As a resident of Holmes Beach, I’m far more — Bonner Joy, news@islander.org offended by the annoying screech of leaf blowers operating on and off all day, every day blowing debris from one homeowner’s lot to the neighbor’s or worse, into our water ways. There are certain things that annoy certain folk, I guess. JAN. 13, 2021 • Vol. 29, No. 12 Raymond Noyes, Holmes Beach ▼ Publisher and Co-editor

Opinion

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Tailing the skullywag

I took my husband Jan. 2 for a much-needed ride around Anna Maria Island. To my surprise, the Anna Maria Island Privateers boat-float pulled out in front of us when we continued our adventure to Anna Maria. I have no problem driving behind the Privateers’ ship, listening to the loud speakers playing fun music. What I was surprised at were the many people walking along the road and seeing this ship with adults dressed as pirates, smiling and waving. I saw hundreds of people with very serious looks on their face look up, then smile and wave and grab their cellphones. When you live out here, you forget that this is the character of the island that many have never had the honor to experience. I really think all the cities should help the Privateers get a small amount every year to maintain their vehicle. They’ve done really great things since the 1970s

out here. My late father was a Privateer many, many years ago. If everyone who lives here and our elected officials could’ve seen the smiles and happiness that the Privateers gave for those brief moments, maybe we would rethink how we can help our island heritage. Manatee County Commissioner Carol Whitmore, Holmes Beach

a bicycle thief

On a wonderful recent morning, I was planning on a bike ride. But, sadly our bikes were gone. The police detective told me there is a bike thief at work on the island. Our bikes were in a parking garage and locked but still, they were stolen. If you can’t store your bike in your residence, garage or locked storage, I recommend a Kryptonitetype bike lock. And take a photo of your bike and, most importantly, record the serial number. Burr Carter, Lake Mills, Wisconsin

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Jan. 13, 2021 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 7 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

From the archives

In the pass the miss cortez X of Jim Berry’s cortez fleet, a charter fishing operation, travels through Longboat Pass in 1996. islander Photos: manatee county Public Library System

At attention members of the u.S. coast guard stand at attention in cortez in october 1976. a coast guard station remains on the waterfront in the fishing village.

10&20 years ago

In the Jan 10, 2001, issue:

• Then-Holmes Beach Mayor Carol Whitmore rejected a resident’s questions about whether city officials complied with the Sunshine Law in executing deeds for public access to the beach on 79th Street. Whitmore said the resident did not attend the meeting when commissioners directed their attorney to coordinate the deed transfer. • The Florida Department of Transportation said it would hold a meeting with Cortez residents to discuss construction of a lane allowing vehicles to turn off Cortez Road without holding up through traffic. • Members of the Anna Maria Island Privateers were selling tickets for $1,000 to ride on their new pirate ship in the Jan. 27 Super Bowl parade in Tampa. The pirates had about $15,000 of the $30,000 cost of the new ship.

In the Jan. 12, 2011, issue:

• About 40 pirates invaded Anna Maria to mark the start of the Privateers’ 40th anniversary year, surrounding city hall and taking a prisoner — then-Mayor Mike Selby. • Two Anna Maria residents sued to overturn the city approval of a site plan for redevelopment at 308 Pine Ave. • Bradenton Beach Mayor Bob Bartelt said he wanted to use the clout of his office to drive the long-delayed project to improve gateways. • Bradenton Beach Police Chief Sam Speciale filed a notice seeking to move a civil rights complaint against the department from a local court to federal court.

Islander issues

Take a trip back in time with The Islander in our digital newspaper collection. It’s simple, easy and available 24/7. There’s 29 years — the complete collection of The Islander, online at ufdc.ufl.edu.

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Subscribe online now to the e-edition to get this limited offer! Look for “lifetime” subscriber at islander.org. Online only! Not available by mail or in person.

Page 8 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Jan. 13, 2021 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

holmes Beach planners consider adapting to sea level rise By chrisann allen islander reporter

Coastal communities must address rising sea levels. At a Jan. 6 meeting, Holmes Beach city engineer Lynn Burnett presented information to planning commissioners about sea level rise and the importance of updating the coastal conservation element in the city’s comprehensive plan. The planning commission, city staff and LaRue Planning and Management of Fort Myers are revising the comp plan, a road map that guides community goals for growth and defines transportation, utilities, land use, recreation and housing policy and regulations. Burnett said a 2019 amendment to the coastal conservation element was state-mandated to “incorporate necessary and required language that addressed sea level rise, peril of flood and really start to chart a course of action for our at-risk communities.” Further action must be taken to ensure resiliency in the comp plan amendments. Holmes Beach city engineer Lynn Burnett, in the front row of seats, presents information on sea level rise Jan. 6 to planning commissioners. islander Photo: chrisann allen

Place portrait photo here

“This is a barrier island. This is a coastal high hazard area,” Burnett said. “That is why people are required to have flood insurance.” She said she and city planner Bill Brisson worked on an update to ensure the city is designated an “adaptation action area,” which means the city would be “first in line” for grants to implement protections against sea level rise and flooding. Sea level in Tampa Bay has risen nearly 8 inches since 1946, according to Burnett, who also said plans are ongoing to secure a grant for a resiliency project. The matching grant would provide $9,000 for designing and permitting a “coastal shelf” to serve as a natural barrier against higher-than-usual tides, as well as provide a “migratory shelf” for mangroves and other aquatic vegetation to grow as sea levels rise. The coastal shelf would be installed in the right of way along Avenue B, starting at 28th Street and continuing 300 feet north. Exotic species, including Australian pines, would be removed, and a vegetated shelf, varying in height from 1-4 feet, would be installed. Planning Commissioner Gale Tedhams, who par-

ticipated in the meeting via Zoom, asked Burnett if the natural shelf would be more effective than the concrete seawalls more common on the island. Burnett said the Florida Department of Environmental Protection and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers regulate seawalls and those agencies evaluate shoreline areas in municipalities and they are not approving permits for new seawalls in areas with natural shorelines, where protection can be achieved with increased native vegetation. “There is a certain amount of natural shoreline they need for the energy dissipation and you cannot just do the entire coastline in a hardened seawall,” she said. “And so it is both. It is not ‘either,’ it’s not ‘or,’ it’s ‘and.’” Burnett said the updates to the comp plan would serve as environmental guidelines. Jim LaRue, owner of LaRue, the contracted agency assisting the city, and Ben Smith, LaRue director of planning, city director of development services Eran Wasserman, City Commissioner Carol Soustek and Brisson also attended the meeting and discussion on the proposed revisions to the comp plan, including alternative transportation — a recently debated topic by the city commission. The planning board voted that autocycles, defined as motor vehicles with three wheels, a steering wheel and non-straddle seats, but certified as motorcycles, are consistent with the comprehensive plan, with Tedhams voting “nay.” In December 2020, Holmes Beach commissioners approved an ordinance prohibiting the rental of autocycles. The exception is vehicles available for rent at the Toy Barn, 5604 Marina Drive, which would be grandfathered as a nonconforming legal use due to prior approval. The planning commission will continue its review, including a discussion of a community survey, at its next meeting at 6 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 3, at city hall, 5801 Marina Drive.

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Jan. 13, 2021 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 9 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

holmes Beach plans to sow a community garden at preserve By chrisann allen islander reporter

Growth can be good. Especially when it’s about wellness. A community garden is proposed for city-owned land abutting Grassy Point Preserve, a designated nature preserve at the north terminus of Avenue C near 30th Street in Holmes Beach. The garden could open to island residents in September or October, pending commission approval. The Holmes Beach Parks and Beautification Committee discussed a draft proposal for the garden Jan. 6 at city hall, 5801 Marina Drive. The meeting also was held via Zoom. On the advice of Mayor Judy Titsworth and Eran Wasserman, the city’s director of development services, committee chair Mary Lange drafted a proposal and presented it to the city commission to approve or deny. The garden would consist of 30 raised beds, each measuring 3 feet by 12 feet, as well as four rain barrels and possible irrigation. Invasive trees, such as Brazilian pepper trees, would be removed, and U.S. Americans with Disabilities Act requirements would be met. The advisory committee is working with Wasserman to determine how responsibilities and costs would be shared among gardeners. Mack Lessig, a master gardner and community gardens program assistant for the University of Florida IFAS extension in Manatee County, attended the meeting as a consultant. He suggested committee members might want to check out the community garden at Ballard Park along Wares Creek, 1740 Ballard Park Drive, Bradenton, as an example. The committee considered a flat fee to join, with members maintaining their plots and sharing responsibilities for common areas, including a border of native, pollinator-attractor plants.

mary catherine melancon, Holmes Beach Parks and Beautification committee member, speaks Jan. 6 about plans for a community garden during a meeting at city hall, 5801 marina drive.

Watering — via hand-watering, sprinklers or hose — also will be a consideration. Parks member Mary Catherine Melancon said her family would pledge $10,000 to support the project. Melancon said she consulted with someone who runs a community garden in California, and said people volunteer for administrative work and teach classes, as well as handle crops, and pay the same monthly fee for crop shares. “She said it works really well for their garden, because they are focused on education as well,” Melancon said. Wasserman said he would work with city planner Bill Brisson and building official Neal Schwartz on plans. “For example, if public works is doing the irrigation, it still needs to have some kind of planning for future expansion,” Wasserman said. “If we are going to work on these details, we really need to break into

mary Lange, Holmes Beach Parks and Beautification committee chair, stands Jan. 7 on a lot abutting grassy Point Preserve — a designated nature preserve at the north end of avenue c near 30th Street. the committee is proposing planting a community garden in the lot. islander Photos: chrisann allen

the nuts and bolts of this.” The committee agreed that Lange would meet with Wasserman and Lessig and bring plans to the next meeting. The next parks and beautification committee meeting will be at 10 a.m. Wednesday, Feb. 3, at city hall, 5801 Marina Drive, or by teleconference, with instructions on the meeting agenda posted to the city website at holmesbeachfl.org.

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Page 10 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Jan. 13, 2021 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

The Islander Calendar

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

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

TBD. TENTATIVE ing, in-person at Bridge Street Bistro, 111 Gulf Drive S., Bradenton July 4, Anna Maria Island Privateers July 4 Parade, islandwide. Beach, and via Zoom. Information: 941-920-2505. TENTATIVE Tuesdays into May, Anna Maria Farmers Market, City Pier Park, ONGOING ON AMI July 15, Anna Maria Island Privateers treasure hunt, TENTA- 103 N. Bay Blvd., Anna Maria. Information: 941-708 –6130. Throughout January, Artists’ Guild Gallery exhibits “Water TIVE OFF AMI Dancing,” featuring work by Susanna Spann, 5414 Marina Drive, OFF AMI Saturday, Jan. 16 Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6694. Through Jan., 24, various hours, Manatee County Fair, 1402 8 a.m.-3 p.m. — Anna Maria Island Privateers Thieves Market, Throughout January, “Love Lights,” mosaics by Donna Gross14th Ave. W., Palmetto. Fee applies. Information: 941-722-1639. G.T. Bray Park, 5502 33rd Ave. Drive W., Bradenton. Information: man, Island Gallery West, 5368 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. Informa931-869-0986. tion: 941-778-6648. AHEAD OFF AMI ONGOING OFF AMI AHEAD ON AMI April 29-May 3, Sarasota-Manatee Originals Forks and Corks First Fridays, 10 a.m., Parkinson’s Support Group, Paradise April 10, Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce Beach’n Food and Wine Festival, various locations. Center, 546 Bay Isles Road, Longboat Key. Information: 941-926Food Truck Festival, Bradenton Beach. TENTATIVE COMMUNITY & 6413. July 24, Anna Maria Island Privateers Christmas in July party, Bradenton Beach. TENTATIVE

ONGOING OFF AMI Through April 11, “For Real This Time,” John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, 5401 Bay Shore Road, Sarasota. Fee applies. Information: 941-359-5700. Through June 27, “Kabuki Modern,” John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, 5401 Bay Shore Road, Sarasota. Fee applies. Information: 941-359-5700. AHEAD OFF AMI

CLUBS

VIRTUAL

ONGOING ON AMI

Monday, Jan. 18 Thursdays, 5-8 p.m., Thursdays in Paradise art, shopping and 5:30 p.m. — Mote Marine Laboratory lecture series program, entertainment, Bridge Street, Bradenton Beach. Information: 941- Dr. Jake Lasala on sea turtles, via Zoom. Fee applies. Information: 896-2222. 941- 388-4441. Saturdays, 8:30 a.m., Kiwanis Club of Anna Maria Island breakOUTDOORS & fast and meeting, Gulf Drive Cafe, 900 Gulf Drive N., Bradenton Beach. Information: 941-778-1382. SPORTS Tuesdays, noon, Rotary Club of Anna Maria Island lunch meetAHEAD ON AMI April 8, coastal cleanup, islandwide. April 10, Anna Maria Island Privateers Whitey Horton Putt Putt Golf Tournament, Bradenton Beach.

Jan. 31, John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art’s Great Art on Screen presents “Frida, Viva La Vida,” Sarasota. AHEAD VIRTUAL

AHEAD OFF AMI

Feb. 1, Artists’ Guild of Anna Maria 2021 show opens.

March 5-7, July 26-32, American Cornhole Organization world competition, various locations. May 14, Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce Golf Tournament, Bradenton.

KIDS & FAMILY ONGOING ON AMI Tuesdays, 6:30 p.m., Movies in the Park, City Pier Park, 103 N. Bay Blvd., Anna Maria. Information: 941-708 –6130.

GOOD TO KNOW SAVE THE DATES

AHEAD ON AMI

Monday, Jan. 18, Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Sunday, Feb. 14, Valentine’s Day. Monday, Feb. 15, Presidents Day. Sunday, March 14, daylight saving time begins.

March 6, Anna Maria Island Historical Society Heritage Day, Anna Maria. TENTATIVE March 14, Anna Maria Island St. Patrick’s Day Parade, Holmes Beach. TENTATIVE June 5, Anna Maria Island Privateers Snooks Adams Kids Day,

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Shoppers browse fresh produce Nov. 24 at the Fibelas Produce tent at the Anna Maria Farmer’s Market at City Pier Park, 101 N. Bay Blvd. The market runs 8:30 a.m.-2 p.m. Tuesdays through May 11, 2021. Islander Photos: Ryan Paice WATCH BANDS • WATCH BATTERIES • SERVICE/REPAIRS

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Send announcements for The Islander’s calendar to calendar@ islander.org. The deadline for listings is the Wednesday before the publication date. Please include the date, time, location and description of the event, as well as a phone number for publication.

Correction

The Jan. 6 issue of The Islander contained incorrect hours for the Anna Maria Island Historical Society museum, 402 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. The museum is open 11 a.m.-3 p.m. The historical society is seeking volunteers to serve as docents, allowing for expanded hours. For more information, call Kathy Primeau at 989-560-6381.

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Island happenings

Jan. 13, 2021 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 11 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

County fair to open Jan. 14

Privateer Lady Sinthia, aka cindy meeks, prepares a Barnacle Burger made to order on the Privateers kitchen vessel, Punchie, at a thieves market set up at coquina Beach Jan. 11, 2020. funds raised at the market go toward college scholarships. islander file Photo

The Manatee County Fair will open Thursday, Jan. 14, and continue through Sunday, Jan. 24, in Palmetto. In addition to shows and exhibits, the fair will feature amusement rides and entertainment, including contemporary Christian artist Jordan Feliz at 7 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 17. Hours will vary. Admission costs $10 for those ages 13 and older and $6 for children 6-12. There are military discounts offered and special pricing days, including Jan. 20 for seniors. The fairgrounds is at 1303 17th St. W., Palmetto. The Manatee River Fair Association, which organizes the event is requiring face masks in buildings. The policy also states “masks are not required outdoors where social distancing can be maintained. We strongly recommend all guests where a face mask to attend.” For more, go to manateecountyfair.com or call 941-722-8951.

Privateers to stage Thieves Market in Bradenton The Anna Maria Island Privateers will stage a series of Thieves Markets this season — but not on Anna Maria Island. The venue was changed from Coquina Beach in Bradenton Beach to G.T. Bray Park in Bradenton due to construction at the county-run beach, according to Tim “Hammer” Thompson. The market will be 8 a.m.-3 p.m. at G.T. Bray Park, 5502 33rd Ave. Drive W. The event raises money for the Privateers’ “kids and community” mission as the nonprofit marks its 50th anniversary. The vendors fee is $50 per market day, which are select Saturdays through April — Jan. 16, Feb. 20, March 20 and April 17. Vendors typically sell treasures and junk, including household goods, art, sports equipment and more, as well as produce and other food items.

Also, the Privateers usually sell barbecue, hot dogs and corn on the cob, depending on availability. For more information or to rent vendor space, contact Kim “Syren” Boyd at 931-639-0986 or go online to amiprivateers.memberlodge.org.

Kiwanis to meet Jan. 16

The Kiwanis Club of Anna Maria Island will gather Saturday, Jan. 16, for a board meeting. The meeting will be at 8:30 a.m. at the Gulf Drive Cafe, 900 Gulf Drive N., Bradenton Beach. A notice from the club said pandemic precautions will be taken, including required wearing of face masks when attendees are not eating. The club members welcome guests gather at 8 a.m. for breakfast. For more information, call Sandy Haas-Martens at 941-778-1383.

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Florida Maritime Museum to reopen after renovations

The Florida Maritime Museum will open Tuesday, Jan. 19. The museum, 4415 119th St. W., Cortez, shut down in March 2020 due to the outbreak of the new coronavirus, During the closure, the museum underwent a “reimagination” of permanent exhibits, according to a news release. For more information, call the museum at 941-708-6120.

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Page 12 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Jan. 13, 2021 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

County legislative delegation, ofﬁcials review 2021 priorities By chrisann allen islander reporter

Manatee County is preparing to bring it’s challenges to the state. Some challenges are related to environmental and infrastructural issues facing the barrier island municipalities of Anna Maria, Bradenton Beach, Holmes Beach and Longboat Key. The 2021 legislative session is set to begin March 2 in Tallahassee and the county delegation met Jan. 6 to discuss its priorities at the Bradenton Area Convention Center, 1 Haben Blvd., Palmetto. The session can be viewed on the county YouTube channel. Following an introduction, state Rep. Will Robinson, R-Bradenton, as the delegation chair for 2019-20, asked for a nomination for 2021-22 chair. State Sen. Jim Boyd, R-Bradenton, nominated Rep. Tommy Gregory, R- Sarasota, who accepted the nomination and was unanimously elected to be the new chair. Boyd was voted to fill the vice chair seat. The delegation heard a variety of issues, including a request from Longboat Key Mayor Ken Schneier for additional beach replenishment funding. “We face the increasing problems of sea level rise and shoreline protection every day,” he said, citing tropical storms and king tides as an increasing problem. “As your first line of defense against these

lBK center sets winter schedule for classes

The Paradise Center of Longboat Key invites people to strengthen body and mind this winter. The center recently announced its winter program schedule, which includes fitness classes, dance lessons, discussion groups, game hours and meditation sessions. The center also offers special wellness programs. The second Wednesday of the month at noon the center will host free in-person memory screenings conducted by the Roskamp Institute. Reservations for the screenings are required by calling 941-383-6493. Also, the center will host “aging in place” seminars presented by Youthful Aging Health Care at 1 p.m. Wednesdays, Jan. 20, Feb. 17 and March 24. Fees may be associated with some programs at the center, which requires face masks and social distancing. The center is at 546 Bay Isles Road, Longboat Key. For more information, call the center at 941-3836493.

Z en Nails

encroachments, we on the barrier islands ask you to expand funding of beach replenishment projects and enact legislation to develop and implement practical plans to combat sea level rise and enhance shoreline protection. Please, act before it’s too late.” He added that evacuation routes and traffic congestion are a regional issue, which must be addressed by the county, as well as the island municipalities. Following Schneier’s request, Manatee County Commissioner Vanessa Baugh spoke on behalf of the Manatee/Sarasota Metropolitan Planning Organization as county liaison. Baugh said regional transportation priorities must be advanced. “Just like our constituents, two of the MPO’s biggest concerns are traffic and bridges,” she said, citing necessary studies and possible new construction of the Anna Maria Island, Cortez and Longboat Pass bridges, among the projects under funding consideration by the Florida Department of Transportation. She added that short- and long-term plans to improve traffic flow between the mainland and barrier islands were addressed in the Sarasota/Manatee Barrier Island Traffic Study, initiated by the Florida Department of Transportation in 2017 and completed in late 2019. But Baugh said solutions must be pushed at the state level. “While local jurisdictions can implement some of the recommendations, many of the proposed solutions will require state investment on state roads,” Baugh said. Jim Kihm, vice president of the ManaSota League of Cities and Holmes Beach Commission chair, spoke

historical society accepting scholarship apps

The Anna Maria Island Historical Society will award a $2,000 scholarship to an island-based high school senior. Applications can be picked up at the AMIHS museum, 402 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, or from high school guidance offices. Applicants planning to attend a four-year college must achieve a weighted grade-point average of 3.0 and applicants planning to attend a community college need a weighted GPA of 2.5. Applications must be mailed to the Scholarship Committee, Anna Maria Island Historical Society, P.O. Box 4251, Anna Maria FL 34216, by Wednesday, March 31. For information, call the AMIHS museum at 941778-0492.

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State rep. Will robinson, r-Bradenton, applauds Jan. 6 as rep. tommy gregory, r-Sarasota, is voted in as the new delegation chair. robinson chaired the delegation 2019-20. islander Screenshots

State rep. tommy gregory, r-Sarasota, leads the manatee county Legislative delegation meeting Jan. 6 at the Bradenton area convention center, 1 Haben Blvd., Palmetto.

on behalf of the league, asking for support of legislative efforts for home rule of municipalities. Priorities included recurring funding for water quality preservation and other aspects of “Florida’s environmental health,” as well as legislation to repeal state preemption of regulation of short-term rental properties and removal of derelict vessels from waters surrounding the island. Dr. Michael Crosby, president and CEO of Mote Marine Laboratory in Sarasota, thanked the delegation for previous support and future efforts to protect coral reefs, research red tide and coastal resiliency in the face of sea level rise. Additionally, Karen Bell, owner of A.P. Bell Fish Co. and Star Fish Co. in Cortez and director of Keep The Camp, a group fighting for historic fishing net camps, asked for support for maintaining the fishing industry’s history in Sarasota Bay waters. On social media, Keep the Camp had said it would ask state lawmakers to protect the stilt-house built over state-owned waters near the Cortez waterfront. The dispute over the stilt-house, built by Raymond Guthrie Jr., has involved the Florida Department of Environmental Protection and the courts. A judge ordered the structure’s removal by Jan. 24. Delegation members, including Boyd and Robinson, said that since the Guthrie matter is before the courts, representatives must wait to determine what could be done to help preserve the net camps, but would continue working with the DEP. “Whatever we can do to help preserve the history of the Cortez fishing village, I’m all in,” Boyd said.

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TO BE INCLUDED IN IWED, CONTACT ISLANDER SALES DIRECTOR TONI LYON, 941.928.8735 OR toni@islander.org

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Jan. 13, 2021 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 13 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Choice application deadline approaches aMe, Manatee schools Pandemic protocols have prompted the Manatee County School District to adjust the school choice enrollment process. The school choice fair usually held in December at the Bradenton Area Convention Center was canceled due to concerns about the coronavirus. Past fairs gave families opportunities to speak with school staff and allowed opportunities to schedule school tours for interested parents. Still, school choice enrollment continues. Families considering sending students to a district school out of their neighborhood for the 2021-22 academic year have through Friday, Jan. 15, to apply for enrollment. Anna Maria Elementary has attracted some prospective families, according to principal Jackie Featherston. Parents interested in the island school can make appointments with the school office for a phone conference or in-person meeting with staff by Jan. 15 to be considered, Featherston wrote Dec. 17, 2020, in an

By Amy V.T. Moriarty, amym@islander.org

email to The Islander. So what makes AME so special? Featherston said the smaller school allows for lower student-teacher ratios and the island environment allows for estuary studies and sea turtle education. Also, a dolphin listening station on the school bayfront is in the works through a partnership with MOTE Marine Laboratory. She also said staff can boast about the school’s gardens, visits to nearby art galleries and bird identification lessons. Eight or nine students annually apply through school choice to attend AME. And once a student is granted school choice admission, they do not have to reapply for subsequent years,

Some anna maria elementary students wait in line at the school office Jan. 8. islander Photo: ame/Sheila Zink

Featherston said. The decision regarding acceptance is up to the district’s office of student assignment. Featherston said of the 202 students attending AME, 36 are school choice. Anna Maria Elementary is at 4700 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. For more info, call AME at 941-708-5525.

AME Calendar

• Wednesday, Jan. 13, 9 a.m., PTO board meeting, via Zoom. • Monday, Jan. 18, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Birthday, no school. • Tuesday, Jan. 26, 5:45 p.m., Manatee County School Board meeting, 215 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton. • Monday, Feb. 1, 4 p.m., PTO member meeting, via Zoom. • Monday, Feb. 8, 3:45 p.m., school advisory committee meeting, via Teams. • Tuesday, Feb. 9, 5:45 p.m., school board meeting, 215 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton. • Monday, Feb. 15, Presidents Day, no school. • Tuesday, Feb. 23, 5:45 p.m., school board meeting, 215 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton. • Tuesday, March 9, 5:45 p.m., school board meeting, 215 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton. • Thursday, March 11, end of third quarter. • Friday, March 12, record day, no school. • March 15-19, spring break. • Monday, March 22, fourth quarter begins. • Thursday, May 27, last day of school. Anna Maria Elementary is at 4700 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. For more information, call the school at 941708-5525.

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Page 14 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Jan. 13, 2021 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Gathering

longboat chapel to host 2 sunday worship services

roser to host virtual culture-art lecture series

The Longboat Island Chapel is offering two in-person Sunday services for worship, as well as a streaming option. The chapel will host services at 9 a.m. and 11 a.m. beginning Jan. 17, with a live-stream on Facebook of the 11 a.m. service. The chapel is offering two services to accommodate increased winter attendance and better social distancing during the coronavirus pandemic. Face masks are required to attend the in-person services at the chapel, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key. For more information, call the chapel at 941-3836491.

Roser Memorial Community Church will host a virtual version of the programming “Calvin University presents The January Series” this month. The lecture-and-culture arts series will be streamed at 12:30 p.m. weekdays through Jan. 26 on the web at calvin.edu/January. The series “cultivates deep thought and conversations about important issues of the day in order to inspire cultural renewal and make us global citizens in God’s world,” a news release stated. Attendance is free but registration is required. For more information, call the church office at 941-778-0414 or go online to roserchurch.com.

anna Maria set to plant tree for Florida arbor Day

Anna Maria plans again call for a tree planting. Public works manager Dean Jones told The Islander Jan. 8 that city staff would plant a buttonwood tree in a pocket park at 311 S. Bay Blvd. Friday, Jan. 15, to celebrate Florida Arbor Day, which is recognized the third Friday in January. Jones said the city’s public works staff would be equipped with gold shovels and the city would hold a small ceremony, similar to last year’s Arbor Day event. No time for the event was set as of Jan. 8. This will be the second consecutive year for the city to plant a buttonwood tree to celebrate the holiday. Jones said the native plant is hardy and easy to maintain. National Arbor Day is observed in late April. — ryan Paice

gathering

Gathering is the religion page for The Islander. Please, send announcements, photographs and calendar listings for the page to news@islander. org, as well as calendar@islander.org.

GoodDeeds

assistance sought on aMI

• Moonracer Animal Rescue seeks volunteers to offer foster and forever homes for rescued animals. Information: 941-345-2441. • The Roser Food Bank seeks donations. Roser Memorial Community Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Worship and events calendar Maria, administers the pantry, supported by All Island Denominations. Information: 941-778-0414. REGULAR WORSHIP anne B. stapor Francis The Manatee County Parks and Natural Resources Monday-Friday Anne B. Stapor Francis, 96, died Jan. 6. Department seeks volunteers to clean trails and 8:30 a.m. — St. Bernard Catholic Church, 248 S. Harbor Drive, She lived on Anna Maria Island beaches, take photos and other tasks. Information: from 1947 until February 2019, when Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-4769. michelle.leahy@mymanatee.org or 941-742-5923. she moved to a retirement home in Thursdays 9:30 a.m. — Church of the Annunciation, 4408 Gulf Drive, Fort Myers to be closer to family. Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-1638. She will be interred at Massachuassistance offered to aMI setts National Cemetery next to her Saturdays • The Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce 4 p.m. — St. Bernard Catholic Church. husband of 50 years, John J. Francis francis offers free face masks. Information:941-778-1541. Sundays Jr., who died in 1997. • The Roser Food Bank welcomes applicants 8:30 a.m. — St. Bernard Catholic Church. She is survived by two sons, a daughter, seven who live and/or work on Anna Maria Island for food 8:30 a.m. — Roser Memorial Community Church, 512 Pine grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. assistance, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Ave., Anna Maria. Information: 941-778-0414. Information: 941-778-0414. Mary Jane ‘Janie’ Messina 9 a.m. — CrossPointe Fellowship, 8605 Gulf Drive, Holmes • All Island Denominations offers help to islanders Mary Jane “Janie” Messina, 85, longtime resident Beach. Information: 941-778-0719. via local churches. Information: 941-778-4769. of Bradenton Beach, died Jan. 2. 9:30 a.m. — Episcopal Church of the Annunciation. Send listings to calendar@islander.org. She and her husband Nick mar-

Obituaries

Tidings

10 a.m. — Roser Church.

messina

ried in 1954. They resided in Mead10 a.m. — Christ Church of Longboat Key Presbyterian USA, ville, Pennsylvania, and New Castle, 6400 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key. Information: 941-900Pennsylvania, for 16 years and raised 4903. their three children, Mark, Michele 9 a.m. — Longboat Island Chapel, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, and Christine. Longboat Key. Information: 941-383-6491. They moved to Bradenton Beach 10:30 a.m. — St. Bernard. in 1970, where they resided for 50 11 a.m. — Longboat Island Chapel.

years. ONLINE WORSHIP She was a believer in Jesus Christ and lived her life accordingly. Christ Church of Longboat Key, christchurchlbk.org. She had a wonderful sense of humor and was hapCrossPointe Fellowship, Facebook. piest when surrounded by her husband, her family and Catholic Diocese of Venice, Spectrum cable TV. friends. Episcopal Church of the Annunciation, Facebook. She is survived by Mark and wife Susan of BraGloria Dei Lutheran Church, Facebook. denton, Michele Steger of Myakka City and Christine Harvey Memorial Community Church, Facebook. Ponto and husband Rick of Bradenton, and (daughter Longboat Island Chapel, longboatislandchapel.org. of her heart) Eleanor Arpaia-Gibbs of Fishers, Indiana; Roser Church, roserchurch.com. grandchildren Garrett Steger, Shauna Steger, Kyle, REGULAR EVENTS Jordan McDaniel and husband Chad; great-grandchildren Bryce Steger, Kaylie Hoffman and Landen Wednesdays Hoffman. 10 a.m. — Women’s Bible study, Christ Church of Longboat

about obituaries

Key.

6:15 p.m. — Wednesday supper, CrossPointe. Obituaries are offered as a community service to 6:45 p.m. — Wednesday Night Blast, CrossPointe. residents and families of residents past and present, as Thursdays well as people with ties to the island. 9:30 a.m. — Women’s fellowship class, CrossPointe. You may submit a free, standard obituary and photo 9:30 a.m. — RoserRobics fitness, Roser Church. to news@islander.org. Saturdays

COMMUNITY CHURCH

Essential Truths WHO IS GOD?

Human beings throughout history have believed in some sort of divine power.

SUNDAY WORSHIP 8:30 AM or 10:00 AM

9 a.m.-noon, Lord’s Warehouse thrift store, Longboat Island Chapel, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key. Information: 941383-6491. Sundays 11 a.m. — Sunday school, Christ Church of Longboat Key. Mondays 9 a.m. — Men’s Bible study, Christ Church of Longboat Key, via Zoom. Tuesdays 9:30 a.m. — RoserRobics fitness, Roser Church. 10:30 a.m. — Book discussion group, Gloria Dei, Zoom-based. Information: gdlami18@gmail.com. SAVE THE DATES Feb. 17, Ash Wednesday. Feb. 25, Purim. March 15, Eastern Orthodox Lent. March 17, St. Patrick’s Day. March 27, Passover. March 29, Palm Sunday. April 2, Good Friday. April 4, Easter. April 12, Feast of Ramadan. Please, send notices to calendar@islander.org. Editor’s note: Due to the holidays, the schedule for regular worship and events may be disrupted or changed. Please, conﬁrm times with a particular church.

Growing in Jesus’ Name

In the SANCTUARY and ONLINE Go to www.RoserChurch.com Click WORSHIP-SIGNUP , WATCH LIVE or WATCH LATER

Sunday Service 10:00 AM Please Register to Attend • Masks Required

941-900-4903 The Rev. Dr. Norman Pritchard Visitors & Residents Welcome

Text ROSER to 22828 to receive the weekly eBulletin.

The CHAPEL is open during Does belief in God still make sense in our changing world? office hours for prayer & meditation. 941-778-0414 • 512 Pine Ave, Anna Maria • FOLLOW us on Facebook @RoserChurch

Worship With Us at Our Church

Watch our 10:00 AM service live: www.bit.ly/cclbksermons

or www.christchurchlbk.org (follow YouTube link)

6400 Gulf of Mexico Dr.

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Jan. 13, 2021 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 15 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Privateers krewe ‘capture’ Bradenton Beach, take ransom

Tim “Hammer” Thompson speaks Jan. 8 from aboard the Anna Maria Island Privateer’s 60-foot ship/float, the “Skullywag,” demanding Bradenton Beach officials give the krewe a key to the city.

Privateer John “Lil’ Jon Arrr” Rutherford waves his hat Jan. 8, calling for “ransom” to release Bradenton Beach Commissioner Jake Spooner, who was “captured” and “chained” to the Skullywag mast during the event.

Islander Photos: Ryan Paice Anna Maria Island Privateers Terry “Cookie” Rapert and John “Lil’ Jon Arrr” Rutherford chain Bradenton Beach Commissioner Jake Spooner Jan. 8 to the mast of their ship, the “Skullywag,” while “capturing” city hall. The Privateers raised $650 “ransoming” Spooner. The nonprofit, established in 1971 to raise money for kids and the community, captured the city as part of its 50-year Golden Jubilee celebration.

Privateer Jamie “Capt. One Eye” Van Deusen Jan. 8 raises a plaque holding the key to the city of Bradenton Beach in celebration. Privateers captured the city and made ransom demands, including the key to the city, which was turned over by Bradenton Beach Commissioner Jan Vosburgh.

From the cover: Anna Maria Island Privateers president Kim “Syren” Boyd, center with knife, alongside her krewe Jan. 8, cuts the ribbon to launch the party with Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce representatives, including chamber president Terri Kinder, left. The krewe and the chamber kicked off the Privateers’ 50th anniversary celebration in the city of Bradenton Beach.

Page 16 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Jan. 13, 2021 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

11-week wait for BBPD death investigation carries into 2020 By ryan Paice islander reporter

The new year has arrived, but new information surrounding the deaths of Sabrina Dumdei, 37, and Zachary Winton, 34, has yet to surface. The pair were involved in a string of domestic incidents before they were found dead Oct. 17, 2020, in a Bradenton Beach apartment they shared. Bradenton Beach Police Detective Sgt. Lenard Diaz called the case a “probable murder-suicide” after reviewing the scene, but his investigation has lasted almost three months — with no announcements

Streetlife

Staff reports

Island police reports

Anna Maria Jan. 3, 200 block of Elm Avenue, noise. The Manatee County Sheriff’s Office received a complaint about loud music. The deputy who investigated did not hear loud music but noted hearing casual conversation that did not merit a citation. Jan. 3, 400 block of Pine Avenue, animal issue. The MCSO responded to a report that a dog was locked in a parked vehicle. A locksmith was called to open the vehicle door. Jan. 5, 100 block of South Bay Boulevard, animal issue. The MCSO responded to a complaint of a woman walking a dog on the beach. She was notified of the ordinance against animals on the beach. The MCSO polices Anna Maria. Bradenton Beach Dec. 31, 600 block of Gulf Drive North, stolen vehicle. A person called the Bradenton Beach Police Department to report a truck stolen, along with a wallet

Click! The Islander welcomes news of the

milestones in readers’ lives. Send notices — along with contact info — to news@islander.org.

or response to inquiries — and it’s unclear when an accounting of the circumstances regarding the deaths will be released. Diaz told The Islander Jan. 8 that the investigation was ongoing, but did not detail why more than 10 weeks diaz have passed and there is yet no information about the cause or means of the deaths. “There is no delay,” BBPD Chief Sam Speciale texted The Islander Jan. 8. “We’re still investigating.”

Meanwhile, the BBPD has provided no insight into the incident, including a 911 emergency call or the outcome of the Oct. 19, 2020, autopsies, which were conducted by the District 12 Medical Examiner’s Office. An employee from the Medical Examiner’s Office told The Islander Jan. 8 that the autopsy and toxicology reports for the pair remain unavailable to the public, stating they require permission from the State Attorney’s Office to release the reports. Since the investigation remains open, several other items have yet to make the public record, including a 911 call from Dumdei’s mother, Mary, made the morning the bodies were discovered, and an Oct. 16 voicemail Winton left his sister, Wendy. Friends and family of the pair also have not and keys in the center console. A BBPD officer found broken glass at the scene and spoke to a witness who responded to The Islander’s inquiries for comment saw a man leaving with the truck. The officer entered on the investigation. the vehicle number into databases as stolen. BBPD polices Bradenton Beach. While on patrol, an officer was contacted by a person Cortez who said items were stolen from an unlocked vehicle, Dec. 30, 12000 block of Cortez Road West, lar- including a wallet, passports and $1,000 in gift cards. ceny. A person went to the Manatee County Sheriff’s The HBPD was investigating. Office to report three bicycles were stolen from outside Dec. 31, 2020, D.Coy Ducks Bar and Grille, 5410 their RV. They were visiting from out of state. Marina Drive, fight. An officer was dispatched to a MCSO polices Cortez. call about a fight. The officer determined half of those Holmes Beach involved had left on a party bus. Officers located the Dec. 30, 2020, The Doctor’s Office, 5312B Holmes party bus and interviewed witnesses who said several Blvd., trespass. A patron became verbally aggressive people crashed through a window at a business near the with staff and a manager called the Holmes Beach Police bar, but all refused medical treatment. The owner of the Department to have the individual trespassed. building stated the cost to repair the window would be Dec. 31, 2020, 3000 block of Gulf Drive, informa- about $12,000 and an investigation was ongoing. tion. A person observed a broken window at a neighJan. 2, 100 block of 46th Street, camping. While boring apartment and notified the HBPD to check the patrolling a beach access, an officer observed two property. people sleeping on the beach with a half-empty bottle Dec. 31, 2020, 6000 block of Gulf Drive, theft. A of alcohol. Both were trespassed from the area and cited person reported an unlocked bicycle stolen from a con- for camping. dominium parking garage. Jan. 3, 3700 block of Gulf Drive, larceny. Someone Dec. 31, 2020, 100 block of 30th Street, intoxicated complained that a person was camping in a lawn chair person. An officer responded to a call about an intoxi- in the backyard. Then the chair went missing and was cated person. Upon arrival, the officer determined the reported stolen. person was incapable of using the phone and called a Jan. 4, 7300 Gulf Drive, vehicle on beach. A person friend to provide a ride home. was cited for driving a golf cart on the shoreline of the Dec. 31, 2020, 5800 block of Gulf Drive, theft. Gulf of Mexico. Jan. 4, 500 block of 69th Street, information. A

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Jan. 13, 2021 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 17 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

County schedules removal of vessel lodged under bridge By ryan Paice islander reporter

The derelict sailboat that broke anchor, wrecked and became lodged under the Cortez Bridge by Hurricane Eta in November 2020 soon will be removed. The vessel sank beneath the bridge, which is owned and maintained by the Florida Department of Transportation. However, jurisdiction for its removal fell to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission due to the boat’s resting point in the Intracoastal Waterway. FWC Senior Officer Adam Brown wrote Jan. 7 in an email to The Islander that the vessel was cleared for removal “after our law enforcement investigation and the owner’s due process was completed.” A letter authorizing removal was sent to the county sTreeTlIFe continued from Page 16

person reported what appeared to be pry marks on a sliding-glass door. No further action was taken. Jan. 5, Kingfish Boat Ramp, 752 Manatee Ave., warrant. A patrol officer observed two people sleeping in a vehicle. One of the occupants of the vehicle had a warrant out of Jacksonville and was arrested and transported to the Manatee County jail. 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, 941-708-8899; Bradenton Beach police, 941-7786311; or Holmes Beach police, 941-708-5804.

and local municipalities, Brown said. Brown subsequently wrote that the FWC inspected the bridge after Eta passed and found no damage to the structure’s integrity, so the vessel was allowed to rest. “The derelict vessel removal process can be lengthy and can include multiple court hearings and court orders in order to remove a vessel from state waters,” Brown wrote in regards to the two months the vessel has spent resting beneath the bridge. Manatee County environmental program manager Alan Lai Hipp told The Islander Jan. 8 that he received the FWC’s letter and had scheduled the vessel’s removal for Jan. 12. Lai Hipp said Cortez-based Sunshine Dock and Seawall had inspected the wreck that same day to prepare for the job, which could take 1-3 days to complete, depending on weather conditions. Removing the vessel will cost the county $4,0005,000, according to Lai Hipp. He added that the county would seek funding from the West Coast Inland Navigation District to cover the cost. Several other vessels also broke loose during the passage of Tropical Storm Eta in the Gulf of Mexico and the rough seas and weather effects in Sarasota Bay, coming to rest at the Historic Bridge Street Pier in Bradenton Beach. They were promptly reported by the city and removed by WCIND.

a derelict sailboat that crashed into the cortez Bridge and became lodged beneath the structure during tropical Storm eta in november 2020 remained Jan. 7. islander Photo: ryan Paice

Stay home if you can and communicate with us online at #AMItogether and islander.org.

Tiki & Kitty’s Let’s go shopping!

Tiki and Kitty are psyched about a touch of cooler weather as they head out on their shopping rounds. We hope you’re staying warm and safe (and wearing a mask in the shops). And we hope you enjoy shopping small, local and vintage! We do! The Cat’s Meow, which showcases 25-plus fulltime vendors, is combining with Blue Flamingo for an outdoor market 9 a.m.-4 p.m., Saturday, Jan. 16. The shops will be open for business and there will be plenty of great vendors. Cat’s Meow has 7,700-square-feet of vintage, unique and repurposed items. Plus, there’s a mancave and a clothing boutique offering something for every taste and style. Be sure to stop by the market, say “Hey” and peruse the amazing assortment of fun and funky finds.

Blue Flamingo eagerly awaits you with upcycled and repurposed goods, renewed furniture and decor, from antique cameras to garden features, as well as fresh candle scents, jewelry, trinkets and work by local artisans. They also offer Dixie Belle paints. 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 at Palma Sola Square, around the corner from WinnDixie. It offers 30-plus vendors and artists, including vintage, upcycled, shabby chic, fanciful frocks and local crafts and art. You won’t be disappointed. You Never Know Thrift has everything you could want: clothes, kitchen utensils, small appliances, furniture, DVDs and autographed sports memorabilia. The inventory is constantly changing. So keep going back.

You Never Know Thrift

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

You never know what you will find. Scavengers Marketplace welcomes you to peruse the goodies for a good cause at the Island Shopping Center in Holmes Beach. Purchases at the store benefit Moonracer No Kill Pet Rescue — our most favorite pet rescue group, which is based at The Islander. Founder Lisa Williams is office manager and, along with board member/ Islander sales rep Toni Lyon, they lead the rescue efforts. FYI: the marketplace also carries Fusion Paints. And don’t forget, tell people you meet along the way, “The Islander sent me.”

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Page 18 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Jan. 13, 2021 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

County’s november tourist tax revenues rise over 2019 Manatee County’s November 2020 tourist tax collection showed improvement, with revenues over November 2019. Representing the 5% tax charged on rentals of six months or less collected by the government in November and reported Jan. 4 by the Manatee County Tax Collector, the revenue totaled $972,618, a 13.44% improvement over 2019’s $857,410. A “safer-at-home” order enacted in March 2020 to help control the spread of the coronavirus caused a steep decline in the spring revenue, as travel all but ceased and some businesses — including vacation rentals — shuttered until the state’s phased reopening began in late May. Before March, “Florida tourism had just capped off almost a solid decade of record visitation,” said Jen

isl

biz

Amy V.T. Moriarty

AMI’s old-Florida feel lures new bakery/cafe

Jennifer Geils had not stepped foot on Anna Maria Island before June 2020. But five months later, she opened the doors to Cheesecake Cuties & Cafe, 3324 E. Bay Drive, Holmes Beach. And, after hours Tuesday, Jan. 19, she’ll be joined by the Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce for a reservation-only official ribbon-cutting. During their June vacation to the island, Geils and her husband, Kane, fell in love at first sight — with Anna Maria Island. “It’s old Florida, and my husband and I love that old Florida feeling. It’s a different feel, everything about it is different, with everyone knowing each other and the real sense of community,” Geils told The Islander in an interview in October.

Carlisle, Visit Florida’s regional partnership manager for central Florida. She was speaking Dec. 14, 2020, at a Manatee County Tourist Development Council meeting and not commenting directly on the just released November tax revenues. Tax revenue rebounded in July to overtake previous years and August saw the highest tax revenue in November tourist tax revenues the county’s recorded history. november 2014: $562,207 September 2020 tax revenues were better than november 2015: $616,520 other September back to 2014. november 2016: $643,497 Though revenues in October and November were november 2017: $717,145 not as high as the three previous months, each was november 2018: $785,050 better than the same month in years past, despite the november 2019: $857,410 continued pandemic and European and Canadian travel november 2020: $972,618 restrictions. Source: manatee county tax collector Of the $454,009 collected by the island’s three cities in November, the Manatee County Tax Collector’s report shows $259,251, or nearly 27%, was collected in Holmes Beach. Anna Maria accommodations generated $148,509, Geils, her husband and their children — sons in or 15.27%, and the $46,250 collected from Bradenton 12th- and seventh-grade and a daughter in fourth-grade Beach was 4.75% of the total. Anna Maria and Holmes Beach saw increased tax — moved to the island from Orlando at the beginning of October to prepare their new business for open- revenue generated by accommodations in November compared to the October percentage but, for the second ing. Geils said the cheesecakes she sells are made using month in a row, Bradenton Beach saw less, with a 0.47% decrease from the prior month. her mom’s recipe. Some more numbers for November: Geils’ mother, Barbara Lanza, created her cheese• Unincorporated Manatee County, $361,605, cake in the late 1970s in New Jersey. What started out as a daughter paying homage to her mother, who 37.17%; • Bradenton, $74,858, 7.70%; died in 1995, evolved into a business and, now its first • Longboat Key, $78,154, 8.03%; storefront. • Palmetto, $4,159, 0.43%. “I think she’d be in shock, but I know she’s smilNovember yielded a net collection of $943,439 ing,” Geils said of her mom. Geils added her twist to her mom’s original recipe after the state’s 3% commission. The December numbers will be released in early by incorporating flavors, but determined, “If it doesn’t February and the November and December tourism work with her recipe, I won’t use it.” Prior to the move to AMI, Geils began selling numbers will be discussed at the next TDC meeting, set for 9 a.m. Monday, Feb. 1, at the Bradenton Area cheesecakes as a side business in Orlando. PLeaSe, See Bakery, neXt Page Convention Center, 1 Haben Blvd., Palmetto.

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Jan. 13, 2021 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 19 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Cha ching, cha ching goes the chamber funding trolley

Nine Anna Maria Island and Cortez nonprofit organizations will be awarded a Save the Trolley Giving Back Program grant Jan. 28 at an Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce networking and awards event. The grant amounts vary and only chamber president Terri Kinder will know in advance how much each nonprofit will receive, she said. The grant money comes from the annual sale of advertising by the chamber for signage on one or more of the six fare-free Manatee County Area Transit trolleys that service riders on the island. Through a contract with Manatee County, the chamber runs the trolley ad campaign and then contributes a portion of the proceeds to pay the county’s quarterly maintenance on the fleet and help keep the trolleys fare-free for riders. The contract allows the chamber to give away whatever revenue remains at the end of the county’s fiscal year, which is Sept. 30. The money must be given in the form of a grant to a nonprofit on the island or nearby in Cortez, Kinder said. “Trolley ads not only help businesses, they also help the nonprofits,” Kinder said. “It’s a great program.” The first grant was awarded in January 2014 and a total of $375,237 has been awarded over the years, including $53,069 shared between 17 grant recipients last year.

BizCal

A committee of six chamber board members reviews grant applications and, in addition to determining a program’s worthiness for funding, suggests a grant amount. Kinder then reviews the committee reports and averages the award Kinder recommendations to arrive at the final amount for each charity. Between Jan. 11-13 — after The Islander’s press deadline — Kinder planned to notify the nonprofits that are receiving a grant. However, the chamber will not announce grant winners or the amount of the grants until Jan. 28. She declined to say how many applications were submitted. The award event will be 5-7 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 28, in the Neptune Room at the Seafood Shack, 4110 127 St. W., Cortez. Kinder said RSVPs are required. Also, COVID-19 safety protocols, including face masks and social distancing, will be followed. For more information, go to annamariaislandchamber.org, or call the office at 941-778-1541.

Chamber accepting scholarship applications

The Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce is accepting applications for two scholarships. The chamber annually awards two or more $1,000 scholarships to two Manatee County high school seniors. This year, one award will go to a senior pursuing a four-year degree and another to a senior seeking “local trade or career focused education.” This year’s scholarships will be awarded at a chamber networking event March 25, according to a statement from chamber director and scholarship fund chair Karen LaPensee. Applications should be mailed to Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce Scholarship Fund, 5313 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, Fl. 34217 and postmarked by March 6. To download an application, go online to www. annamariaislandchamber.org. For more information, call the office at 941-7781541. FAR LEFT: Caroline Kaye, left, and Jennifer Geils share a laugh as they mix the ingredients for Grandma’s Key Lime Cheesecake at Cheesecake Cuties and Cafe.

compiled bY LISA NEFF

AMI Chamber

This week 7:30 a.m., Thursday, Jan. 14, breakfast meeting, Anna Maria Island Beach Cafe, 4000 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. After closing, Tuesday, Jan. 19, ribbon-cutting, Cheesecake Bakery continued from page 18 Cutie and Cafe, 3324 E. Bay Drive, Holmes Beach. After she attended a wedding expo, she expanded out the island property.

her cottage operation into a commissary kitchen and, in addition to 9-inch cheesecakes, offered small “cutie” Jan. 28, business card exchange and Giving Back awards, cakes. Cortez. Geils quit her job in 2020 to launch the business March 6, scholarship application deadline, Holmes Beach. full-time and set out to find a storefront in Orlando. For more information, contact the chamber at 941-778-1541. But in the spring, with the outbreak of the coronavirus, she said no one called her back about comLBK chamber mercial real estate, including her agent. Save the date Shortly after returning from the June vacation on Jan. 21, Longboat Key Chamber of Commerce 62nd annual AMI, Geils’ husband started searching and found a meeting and 22nd Small Business Person of the Year Awards Lun- listing for a commercial property in Holmes Beach. cheon, Lido Key. It didn’t take much convincing for her to check Save the date

For more information about the LBK chamber, call the office at 941-383-2466. Send calendar listings to calendar@islander.org.

SEAFOOD

Bakery/cafe owner Jennifer Geils shows off her Peanut Butter Dream Cheesecake. Islander Photos: Amy V.T. Moriarty

After touring the store, “I cried for two hours going home because I knew what was about to happen,” Geils said. “Everything was just aligning.” Geils’ shop took over the Cupcake Delights storefront at the Centre of Anna Maria Island shopping plaza, and the staff stayed to work for her — making cheesecakes in place of cupcakes. The shop offers charcuterie and cheese plates, as well as salads and sandwiches, crafted by Jennifer’s husband, Kane. It’s a real mom-and-pop business. For more information, go to cheesecakecuties.com or call 941-779-2253.

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Page 20 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Jan. 13, 2021 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

More sand to follow 2020 beach renourishment who visit them, as well as property values, have benefited from sand replenishment. It’s not always as simple as footprints in the “This ongoing work is vital to the protection of sand. our shoreline,” Charlie Hunsicker, Manatee County A fusion of nature and technology has protected the parks and natural resources director, said Dec. 3, 2020. vulnerable shores of Anna Maria Island since 1992. “And the success represents a fusion of work between Starting that year, island beaches and the people multiple agencies.”

A $17.3 million sand replenishment project — with funding from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and tourist tax dollars — started July 8 near 77th Street in Holmes Beach. From there, the project rolled south to Longboat Pass, where it wrapped up Nov. 20. “We could not be more pleased with the way this project occurred,” Hunsicker said. “The sand-sorting equipment, which allowed for such smooth sand at the end, without rocks and shell, made a huge difference. So beautiful.” The project involved pumping 1.1 million cubic yards of sand from borrow areas in the Gulf of Mexico via a dredge about a quarter-mile offshore. The sand — pre-tested for beach quality — would replenish 5.5 miles of abraded beaches. As it moved south toward more eroded beaches than the northern end of the project, an additional dredge barge was stationed nearby to boost the pipeline. Throughout the course of the project, Mother Nature dictated some downtime. Work paused for storms Laura, Sally, Delta, Zeta and Eta during one of the most active Atlantic hurricane seasons on record. This resulted in a backup of about two weeks from equipment lines the shore July 8, 2020, near 77th Street in Holmes Beach as a $17.3 million project funded the initially projected completion date of Oct. 31. by the federal, state and manatee county governments to restore eroded beaches begins. the project Additionally, the project ran concurrent to sea concluded in november 2020. file Photos: chrisann allen turtle nesting season on the island, May-October. Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring volunteers worked hand-in-hand with renourishment contractor Marinex of South Carolina to ensure the beaches got the needed sand and the sea turtles and their habitat and nests were protected. “We were out there every night with the contractors to ensure turtles could nest and we could relocate eggs,” Suzi Fox, Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring executive director, said Dec. 29. “They were amazing to work with. They got to see nesting sea turtles. And the shorebirds loved all the food from the fresh sand.” By chrisann allen islander reporter

‘Water goat’ holds back litter, wildlife unaffected a pelican sits Jan. 7 on a seawall at Portosueno Park in Palma Sola near a “water goat,” a floating system installed to prevent litter from flowing from Palma Sola creek into the adjacent waters of Palma Sola Bay. the Sarasota Bay estuary Program awarded manatee county $4,000 to install the system. the park, 1206 alcazar drive, Bradenton, is a popular spot for manatees and manatee observers. erin Struzzieri, ecological resources coordinator for the county parks and natural resources department, said the containment systems — a pilot project in the area — do not interfere with wildlife and thus far have helped to keep 310 tons of debris from entering the ocean in the tampa Bay region. islander Photo: chrisann allen

TideWatch

red tide bloom persists in sW Florida

A bloom of the red tide organism, Karenia brevis, Fish kills suspected to be related to red tide were persists in the Gulf of Mexico in Southwest Florida reported in Lee and Collier counties. — south of Manatee and Sarasota counties. Respiratory irritation was reported over the past K. brevis was observed at background to high week in Lee and Collier counties. concentrations in and offshore of Lee County and For more information, go online to myfwc.com/ medium to high concentrations in Collier County. research/redtide.

2021 renourishment plans In December 2020, Manatee County commissioners agreed to partner with the town of Longboat Key — to the tune of $2.69 million — on a renourishment project that includes the construction of new groins at the north end of Longboat Key, as well as dredging at Greer Island, commonly known as Beer Can Island, also at the northern tip of the key at Longboat Pass, which separates the key from Anna Maria Island. The project will include five groins and 75,000 cubic yards of sand removed from the pass. The project is planned to begin in February, according to Hunsicker. “By pulling from the pass, we get the benefits of moving sand only about 500 yards to get it to the beach,” he said. “Also, it establishes the full dimensions of the channel for navigational benefits. It works well for us all.”

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Jan. 13, 2021 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 21 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

a black skimmer feeds a chick a cigarette butt on the gulf shore in St. Pete Beach. Karen catbird, of Largo, took the photograph, which circulated widely — on social media and in the news — after she shared the image on her facebook page in 2019. islander file Photo

By Lisa Neff

smoking hot issue

The 2021 legislative session could involve a smoking hot debate. State Sen. Joe Gruters, R-Sarasota, will ask colleagues in the Legislature to pass a bill authorizing local governments to ban smoking at public beaches and parks. State law preempts regulation of smoking to the state but, in Senate Bill 334, Gruters proposes that “counties and municipalities may further restrict smoking within the boundarneff ies of public beaches and public parks that they own.” Municipalities also could restrict smoking at county-owned beaches and parks in their jurisdiction. In addition, the measure would ban smoking anywhere in state parks. Gruters introduced similar bills in prior sessions, prompting in 2020 the regional environmental group ManaSota-88 to endorse beach smoking prohibitions. “A ban on smoking on the public beaches would help reduce the litter from cigarette butts, reduce the health risks associated with second-hand smoke and promote a healthy lifestyle,” read a statement from ManaSota-88. Stephen P. Leatherman, aka “Dr. Beach,” has gone beyond endorsing bans to penalizing locations that allow smoking on the beaches. Since 1991, Leatherman has issued a list of top beaches ahead of Memorial Day weekend. In 2020, he amended his evaluation method to include extra credit to boost beaches where smoking is banned. His focus was on litter rather than the sidestream smoke that goes directly into the air from a burning cigarette. “Nothing restores the body and soul like a beach vacation,” Leatherman said, announcing his new criteria. “But sitting down on the sand and finding a nasty cigarette butt touching my hand spoils the whole experience.” Volunteers in island coastal cleanups know just

how many cigarette butts can be found spoiling the sand. Cigarettes are the No. 1 type of litter found on island beaches, as well as the No. 1 type of litter nationally and internationally, presenting an ick factor for us and posing a grave threat to wildlife. For example, the plastic cellulose acetate composition of cigarette filters acts as a conduit for the heavy metals in the products, including arsenic, manganese, cadmium and lead. Are smoking bans at beaches tested? Campaigns to limit smoking intensified beginning in the 1970s and, from 1993-2011, smoking was banned in 843 parks and on 150 beaches across the United States. Today, the states of California, Maine, Hawaii and New Jersey have imposed restrictions on beach smoking and report success. Will Florida be next? About the 2021 legislative session The 2021 Florida legislative session will begin March 2 and continue through April 30 in Tallahassee. Environmental groups, including the Sierra Club Florida and 1000 Friends of Florida, listed priorities and goals for the session, including legislation: • Promoting the use of electric vehicles by expanding charging infrastructure and setting goals for battery-electric fleets; • Setting a statewide goal for 100% renewable energy;

escrap, hazardous waste collection set for Coquina Manatee County in collaboration with island municipalities will collect household hazardous waste and electronics 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 30. The collection will be at Coquina Beach in Bradenton Beach. People can dispose of solvents, latex and oilbased paints, garden pesticides, waste oil, propane tanks, fluorescent bulbs, such mercury-containing devices as thermostats and thermometers, as well as pool chemicals. Old gasoline in gasoline containers and some household, auto and marine batteries also will be collected. Alkaline batteries, which can be disposed of with household garbage, will not be collected.

Electronics to be collected include TVs, computer components, copiers, video and audio equipment and also small household items, such as microwaves, hair dryers, irons, cellphones, tablets, digital cameras and battery chargers. No radioactive items, such as smoke detectors, will be accepted. And no bio-hazardous materials, such as needles, will be accepted. People should remain in their vehicles when they arrive and also should wear face masks while dropping off their waste. For more information, call Manatee County Solid Waste at 941-798-6761 or go online to www. mymanatee.org/escrap.

• Preserving open space and wetlands; • Reducing light pollution and promoting “birdfriendly” lights out communities; • Further regulating septic tanks, stormwater and sewer systems, as well as fertilizers. • Removing the preemption on local regulation of plastic bags and containers; • Repealing the statute that prevents municipalities from enforcing tree ordinances; • Creating a funding floor of at least $100 million for Florida Forever, the state’s conservation and recreation lands acquisition program.

swiftmud asks residents to ‘skip a Week,’ conserve h2o

How does the grass grow in winter? With less water than in the hot Florida summer. The Southwest Florida Water Management District Jan. 4 issued a call to residents to limit their use of water for irrigation, specifically for watering grass. Swiftmud asked residents to “skip a week” of lawn irrigation through February, as grass doesn’t need to be watered as often during the cooler winter months. So Swiftmud suggests turning off automatic irrigation systems and then watering the lawn about every 10-14 days or when grass looks thirsty: • Grass blades folded in half on at least a third of the yard; • Grass blades appear blue-gray; • Grass blades do not spring back. For more information about water conservation and Swiftmud, go online to watermatters.org/skipaweek.

From the archives

Islander archive 24/7

Some years ago, The Islander was invited to take part in a pilot project with the University of Florida George A. Smathers Libraries. We donated our collection of printed newspapers covering from the first edition in 1992 to the digital era of 2005, as well as the digital editions. It took some time, but it’s all maintained on the University of Florida digital library site, all searchable by key word, name or date. There’s 27 years, 52 weeks a year, the complete collection of The Islander, online at ufdc.ufl.edu.

Page 22 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Jan. 13, 2021 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Replay: Flashback on island sports, players in 2020

and Gary Howcroft all brought home gold, while John Crawford and Jay Disbrow earned silver medals. The horseshoe guys also made news Dec. 15 for a $400 donation to the Manatee County Food Bank.

Part II compiled by Kevin P. cassidy islander reporter

Here’s more replay on 2020 in island sports. For the first recap, see The Islander’s Jan. 6 issue.

Hooke returns to track The Nov. 17, 2020, Islander reported on Mickey Hooke, longtime runner and Galati Yacht Sales cassidy employee, and his successful return to competitive running in the 10th Annual Run the Track race at Sebring International Speedway. The race was originally set for March 20, but was postponed to Nov. 7 due to the pandemic lockdown. Hooke finished the 3.74 mile track, which is sixtenths of a mile longer than a 5K, at fourth-place overmoss Builders QB ryan moss tries to elude the flag all, with a time of 26:18. pull of capt. Sky cruises’ Brandin Holcomb during semifinal action June 11, 2020, in the adult flag Samuels retires from competition Longtime horseshoe competitor Sam Samuels football league at the center of anna maria island. announced he would no longer coordinate or compete islander Photo: Kevin P. cassidy

with the Anna Maria horseshoe group at a Feb. 27, 2020, luncheon for the AMI pitchers and spouses at Peridia Golf and Country Club in Bradenton. Samuels said it was difficult decision, but his goal to medal in the Games of Life was met. “I will greatly miss my horseshoe pitching friends and interaction with the Islander newspaper editors and wish them success in their future endeavors,” he said. Samuels competed in the February 2020 Games for Life and earned gold for his 6 foot 1 inch showing the long jump and, of course, in horseshoe pitching. Islanders team up in ﬁght against diabetes We reported in the July 28 edition the outcome for a group of Holmes Beach residents, family and friends who participated in the American Diabetes Association’s annual Tour de Cure. The event, which took place June 13, 2020, raised funds to support medical research, advocacy and education programs for the millions of Americans living with diabetes. We featured Team Autumn, supporting the cause for Wendy Kovich and her family, including Wendy’s father, David Kapanjie, a Type 1 diabetic, and Autumn, Wendy and husband Eric’s 15-year-old daughter, diagnosed with diabetes at age 4. It was Team Autumn’s fourth year in the event, held “virtually” due to the pandemic. Center closes out fall adult sports The Dec. 8, 2020, edition of The Islander reported on the Center of Anna Maria Island fall adult flag football and soccer seasons semifinals and championship games Dec. 2 and Dec. 3. Again, the COVID-19 pandemic was a factor — no one was sure the season could be completed, not to mention delays for the passage of Tropical Storm Eta in the Gulf of Mexico. The adult soccer playoffs took place Dec. 2 with semifinal action on the center pitch and Signature Granite living up to its billing with a 9-2 thrashing of Ugly Grouper. The second semifinal also was a blowout, as Slim’s

Key Royale in review Reporting from the links at the Key Royale Club is a constant for this weekly columnist. However, during the first weeks of the pandemic shutdown, the only news from the club was from members who shot holesin-one. A hole-in-one occurred April 1 — no fooling. Jon Holcomb aced the fourth hole, a 186-yard par 3, 1-handicap hole. Holcomb struck his hybrid 2-club straight into the brisk wind. The ball took one hop and bounced into the hole for Holcomb’s sixth career hole-in-one. The following week, we reported on two Key Royale Club members who struck holes-in-one on their rounds at the club. First came Joy Kaiser on the par 3, 115-yard eighth hole and next came Ed Crenshaw, who aced the par 3, 141-yard third hole with an 8-iron — a fourth hole-inone for Crenshaw in his golfing lifetime.

Place crushed Sato Real Estate 9-3. The championship game was all Signature Granite in a 7-0 victory. Championship night for the adults players in the flag football league resumed Dec. 3 with Slim’s Place defeating Gulfview Windows and Doors 23-12 in the first semifinal match, followed by a win for Sandbar Restaurant over Moss Builders by an 18-17 score. The championship game was a barnburner that saw Slim’s Place outlast Sandbar 34-33. Horseshoe news Weekly reports of the action at the Anna Maria horseshoe pits are a staple for this reporter, including the renewal of a friendly competition between the locals and the Trailer Estates horseshoe group Jan. 27, 2020, at the Anna Maria City Hall pits, where the home team successfully defended its turf 35-12. The Feb. 25, 2020, issue reported on the group’s venture to the Feb. 6 Gulf Coast Games for Life at G.T. Bray Park in Bradenton. The group was well represented on the medal stand as Sam Samuels, Bob Palmer, Tom Farrington

Bradenton resident Will corr locks in one of the nicer waves kicked up by tropical Storm cristobal June 6, 2020, at the White avenue beach in anna maria. islander Photo: Kevin P. cassidy

horseshoes, golf continue routine in the new year Four teams advanced to the knockout stage and battled for the day’s championship during Jan. 6 horseshoe action at the Anna Maria City Hall horseshoe pits. The first semifinal saw the team of Bob Heiger and Steve Hooper destroy Norm Good and Bob Lee 21-4, while Neil Hennessey and Tom Farrington eased past Bob Palmer and Gary Howcroft by a 26-9 score. The Hennessey-Farrington team stayed hot and rolled to a 23-8 victory over Heiger-Hooper in the finals. Three teams emerged from pool play during Jan. 9 action. Hooper drew the bye into the finals and watched as Tom Skoloda and Palmer defeated Lee and Jerry Disbrow 23-17. Skoloda and Palmer were not to be $2 @ The Islander, 3218 E. Bay Drive, Holmes Beach.

denied, cruising to a 22-13 victory over Hooper. Play gets underway at 9 a.m. every Wednesday and Saturday at the Anna Maria City Hall pits. Warmups begin at 8:45 a.m. followed by random team selection. There is no charge to compete and everyone is welcome. Over on the links at the Key Royale Club in Holmes Beach, beautiful weather lent itself to a full week of golf, starting Jan. 4 with the men’s nine-hole modified-Stableford system match. The team of Jon Holcomb, Jack Lowry, Art McMillan and Fred Miller combined on a plus-3 to win the team event. Ken Butler won individual honors with a plus-5, while Ken Nagengast and Peter Lund came in a point back in second place. PLeaSe, See SPOrTS, neXt Page

Perfect island reminder the new Jack elka 2021 calendar has arrived at the islander office in the anna maria island centre shopping plaza in Holmes Beach. also available by mail order at islander.org and Jackelka.com.

ami centre, 3218 e. Bay drive, Holmes Beach

Jan. 13, 2021 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 23 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Variations in weather, cold temps result in varied catches By capt. danny Stasny islander reporter

With frequent cold fronts and variable air temperatures, fishing around Anna Maria Island is comparable to riding a roller coaster. On cooler, windier days during the fronts, fishing is slightly challenging. With temperatures in the low to mid 50s, it’s hard to muster up the motivation to get out on the water. But have no fear, within a couple of days, temperatures are back on the rise and Stasny sometimes exceed 80 degrees. Between the fronts are when it’s most advantageous to get out and fish. Not only are the clients more comfortable, but the fish seem to cooperate better. On these warmer days, venturing into Tampa Bay or the Gulf of Mexico is proving to be good for sheepshead. Try the artificial reefs if you don’t already have a spot picked out. By bottom fishing shrimp you can lure a sheepie to the hook, as well as Key West grunts, mangrove snapper, porgies and some hogfish. And, if you’re willing to go offshore in depths of 100 feet or more, you may be rewarded with amber jack, as well as some large mangrove snapper. Staying inshore in the bays and Intracoastal Waterway has advantages. Drifting and jigging over deep grass flats is yielding pompano, as well as bluefish, ladyfish and catch-and-release spotted seatrout. If jigging isn’t your thing, try canal fishing for sheepshead, black drum or catch-and-release redfish. A live shrimp on a weighted rig will put you on the fish. Lastly, casting shrimp along the beaches is producing some whiting, black drum and pompano. On my Southernaire charters, I’m finding catchsPorTs continued from Page 22

The women played a nine-hole individual low-net match in three flights Jan. 5. Roxanne Koche fired a 4-under-par 28 to cruise to a first-place victory in Flight A. Marcia Frieson took second with a 2-over-par 34, while Margrit Layh was two shots back in third. Sue Christenson grabbed first place in Flight B with a 3-under-par 29, two strokes ahead of both Susan VanOrsdel and Meredith Slavin in second place. Connie Lavino was alone in third place with an evenpar 32. Markie Ksiazek and Terry Westby both carded 1-over-par 33s to tie for first place in Flight C. Janet Razze was alone in second with a 2-over-par 34, while Sally York and Judy Menchek were a stroke back in third place. The team of Ken Butler, Mike Brakefield, Kurt Snouffer and Bob Blazer combined on a 4-under-par 28 to win the Jan. 7 nine-hole scramble. — Kevin cassidy

Fishing tip! if you hook a bird, remember: Reel, remove, release!

Anna Maria Island Tides

Date

Jan 13 Jan 14 Jan 15 Jan 16 Jan 17 Jan 18 Jan 19 Jan 20

11:06p 2:42p 2:56p 12:41a 1:32a 2:27a 3:33a 4:58a

HIGH

2.3 — 1.1 11:53p 1.1 — 2.0 3:13p 1.8 3:33p 1.5 3:58p 1.3 4:28p 1.1 5:02p

— 2.2 — 1.2 1.3 1.4 1.5 1.6

6:27a 7:05a 7:40a 8:13a 8:46a 9:18a 9:52a 10:26a

LOW

Moon

-1.0 — — New -0.8 5:19p 1.0 -0.7 6:22p 0.9 -0.5 7:25p 0.8 -0.3 8:32p 0.7 0.0 9:43p 0.5 0.2 11:00p 0.4 0.4 — — 1st

mitchell Keith, of chicago, shows off a nice redfish Jan. 6 that decided to eat a pompano jig. the fish was released. Keith and her crew were fishing with capt. david White of anna maria charters.

and-release redfish around docks and seawalls, with some black drum and sheepshead mixed in for folks who want to bring a fish or two home for dinner. Fishing along the beaches with jigs tipped with shrimp is providing some pompano action, as well as some whiting and small sheepshead. Lastly, bottom fishing for sheepies around the wrecks and reefs in the Gulf seems to be getting better as the winter progresses. Capt. Jason Stock is hooking into large amberjack offshore in fishing the waters west of Anna Maria Island. Fishing over wrecks and springs is producing amberjack up to 85 pounds. Fishing ledges and hard bottom offshore is yielding plenty of porgies, with some hogfish in the mix. For these fish, a bottom rig combined with shrimp is working well. Stock also is hooking up some tripletail after close inspection of floating debris. Capt. David White is fishing the inshore waters of Tampa Bay on days when the wind makes it difficult to go offshore. On these windy days, White is finding black drum and catch-and-release redfish around residential canals and docks. Sheepshead are involved in this bite. All three species are readily taking live shrimp offerings. Along the beaches and passes, White is casting small jigs tipped with shrimp, which is resulting in

some pompano, as well as ladyfish and whiting. Lastly, on the flats, bonnethead sharks are keeping younger kids entertained while the adults are targeting catch-and-release snook. Capt. Aaron Lowman is patrolling the beaches for a variety of species. Anchoring away from the beach and casting toward shore is resulting in black drum and sheepshead, as well as a few pompano. Live shrimp on a weighted rig or small shrimp-tipped jigs are working well in this scenario. Around residential docks and canals, Lowman is finding some catch-and-release redfish, as well as sheepshead. Again, shrimp is the bait of choice. Finally, venturing offshore to ledges and hard bottom is proving to be good for hogfish, porgies, Key West grunts and snappers. Tripletail are present in areas wherever there is floating debris. Jim Malfese at the Rod & Reel says black drum are the most frequent catch. Casting live shrimp on a bottom rig under the pier is yielding the best results. Most of the black drum are 15-20 inches. While fishing in this manner, anglers are hooking into sheepshead and an occasional catch-and-release redfish. Surprisingly, Malfese says there are snook hanging around the pier, although none were gullible enough to take a bait. Send high-resolution photos and ﬁshing reports to ﬁsh@islander.org.

If you go, know shore-based shark ﬁshing regs If you plan to target or keep sharks caught from shore, including structures attached to shore such as jetties, bridges and piers, you are required to pass an online educational course found at myfwc.com/ sharkcourse. Once completed, you will be prompted to go to FWC’s online licensing system, where you can get an annual no-cost, shore-based shark fishing permit. You are not required to have this permit if you are fishing for sharks from a vessel. The permit is required for all shore-based shark anglers age 16 and older, including those 65 and older who are normally exempt from needing a fishing license. The permit also is required if you are 16 and

older and plan to fish from shore for any species of fish and will be: • Fishing with a metal leader more than 4 feet long; • Using a fighting belt/harness; • Or deploying bait by means other than casting while using a hook that is 1 1/2 inches or larger at the widest inside distance. Anglers younger than 16 are not required to obtain the permit but are required to take the online educational course unless they are fishing with someone else who holds a shore-based shark fishing permit. Source: Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission

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

Southernaire Fishing Charters

licensed

Page 24 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Jan. 13, 2021 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

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

FREEBIE ITEMS FOR SALE

SERVICES

ge fridge: 28 by 28 by 64 inches, good condition, $100. 941-778-3920.

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)

need a ride to airports? tampa $65, St. Pete, $55, Sarasota, $30. gary, 863-4095875. gvoness80@gmail.com.

car roof racK: easy install, black, $70, christmas wreath with bow, $5, stainlesssteel pressure cooker, $30. 941-920-2494. non-SticK PanS: green, 8-10-12-inch, $45, concrete pavers all sizes, shapes, 50-75 cents. 941-920-2494.

ANNOUNCEMENTS Wanted: WorKout dVds and retired but working XBox, Wii units with games for ministry of Presence for kids and teens in Haiti. deliver to the islander, 3218 e. Bay drive, Holmes Beach.

SHiP’S WHeeL taBLe: capt. J. Lindroth original masterpiece of inlaid wood and brass. 19-inches tall, 45-inch diameter. $1,500. also, related pieces. marinateal@ gmail.com.

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

antiQue office chairs: Perfect for eclectic dining set. circa 1950 from anna maria city Hall. the islander newspaper, 3218 e. Bay drive, Holmes Beach. 941-778-7978.

Sandy’s Lawn Service Inc. ESTABLISHED IN 1983

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

PETS

LICENSED & INSURED

Paradise Improvements

941.792.5600

Kitchen and Bath Remodeling Specialist Replacement Doors and Windows

Andrew Chennault

FULLY LICENSED AND INSURED Island References Lic#CBC056755 CBC 1253471

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

References available • 941-720-7519

AdoptA-Pet

ANSWERS TO JAN. 13 PUZZLE M O D E

B I G P O H A R P A G A P P E N A S E A C H B R E Z O O M I D S T E S T A H U G S U N I T M E M E B A L S U S E G E T

A L E A R B E I S E N D N O I R A K

F I N E S T

P O P I D L O P I L D O A N D T E A F A M I W E E E R R

A D D M E

C U J O

T N U T

I N R E P P E A V I V I A P E R N E S U N G A N E L T A R I O T B Z E A K I S S N E T S A R S C R O K A L S G O

S O Y

I N B G E A R T C E A E N A L C E C H A D E N S C E O O M L O T E S S P E C O M A L U R O S E

S O U R O N

A T T E N D E T E O S S T E A D D E A N

Y E T D E L Q U T D R E

R I D D L S P E H I R I E N D B E I D O

R I O B E E R P O N G

G O O N S Q U A D

O S N O E S G

L A D E

I S S O E R I E

A T L A S T

N T H S A D E S

PaYton tecHnoLogY: friendLY, patient, local. at-home computer, data and network services. mention our ad for a free quote! 941-780-3567 or email us at Paytontechnology@gmail.com.

Bimini BaY SaiLing: Small sailboat rentals and instruction. day. Week. month. Sunfish, Laser, Windrider 17 and Precision 15. call Brian at 941-685-1400.

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

JameS@corteZ diVing company. Local dockside service, 941-792-7595.

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.

o”daY mariner SaiLBoat: 1976 great Bay/gulf boat. 19-foot, centerboard up draws 10 inches. furling retractable jib. Yamaha 4-hp motor. cushions. aluminum trailer. extras. Very good condition. 941-3839063, cell, 201-962-5599.

KIDS FOR HIRE

O R A N G E

reSidentiaL-BuSineSS cLeaning by Jessie. 10-plus years experience. top-brand cleaning products. Honest, mature, trustworthy. references from long-term clients. i work alone so no “crew” in your home. i have bimonthly openings. text or leave a message at 941-526-9900.

BOATS & BOATING

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

M A I T A I

HouSecLeaner: VerY HoneSt and reliable. guaranteed quality work. Plenty of cleaning references to give upon interview. Palmetto area. if interested and have questions, call 660-362-2333.

cLeaning in ParadiSe! Let me help you keep your little slice of paradise clean and safe! Local girl, lots of experience! residential, vacation, business. give me a call, 941773-0461.

ami car WaSH/detailer. Looking for experienced detailer willing to be available seven days as needed. 941-527-6266. Holmes Beach.