The Islander Newspaper E-Edition: Wednesday, April 19, 2023

H20

HelP earth day 2023 on aMi is all about the water

aMi cities unite on water quality campaign HB enters final phase of road work

By ryan Paice islander reporter

Anna Maria Island’s three cities are leading a combined effort to improve local water quality ahead of Earth Day.

Holmes Beach Mayor Judy

Earth Day 2023

Titsworth attended an April 12 city clean water meeting to announce the Islander 4 Clean Water campaign, an effort sponsored by all three island cities to promote awareness of water quality stewardship.

The campaign includes a 10-point checklist “challenge” consisting of ways people

can better protect and improve local water quality.

Some points include:

• Reducing and/or eliminating the use of chemical fertilizers and single-use plastics;

• Conserving fresh water;

• Properly disposing hazardous waste;

• Landscaping with Florida-friendly plants.

The final point asks people to share the campaign online with others by challenging them to complete the checklist and posting videos of themselves taking a plunge in local waters to social media — also tagging the city — to further awareness.

People who complete the checklist challenge can submit their entry by email to deputyclerk@holmesbeachfl.org or at Holmes Beach City Hall, 5801 Marina Drive, to win a promotional item funded by donations to the campaign.

Titsworth said promotional items would include custom T-shirts, rain barrels, compost bins and native plants and they would be distributed after Earth Day, which is Saturday, April 22.

The mayor said an anonymous donor gave $10,000 to the cause.

Other people can help by sending donations to city hall.

Sponsorship includes four levels of benefits based on the amount donated — plankton, oyster, snook and manatee.

People who donate up to $250, or plankton, will be thanked on social media.

By ryan Paice islander reporter

The big picture is starting to come into focus for Holmes Beach on the city center improvement project.

The intersection of Gulf and Marina drives fully reopened and the traffic signal returned to operation the week beginning April 10 for the fi rst time since Sarasotabased C-Squared CGC began construction last September.

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

That section of Marina Drive was the first segment closed for construction.

There, C-Squared removed asphalt, installed or improved four stormwater drainage pipelines under the roadway, repaved and added new curbing and brick paver sidewalks.

The contractor reopened both lanes of Marina Drive last December but also closed Gulf Drive between its intersections with Marina Drive and Holmes Boulevard.

That section remained closed until April 11 while C-Squared replaced stormwater drainage pipelines along both the north and south sides, then repaved the roadway.

With the main intersection reopened,

Anna Maria island looking northwest to southeast. islander Photo: Jacob Merrifield

Holmes Beach Mayor Judy Titsworth steps to the podium April 12 to tell the city’s Clean Water Committee members about the islander 4 Clean Water campaign. islander Photo: ryan Paice

Oysters — people who donate up to $1,000 — will be thanked and can have a small logo featured on the campaign’s web page at holmesbeachfl.org.

Snook, who donate up to $5,000, and manatees, who donate up to $10,000, will be thanked with space and logos on the web page.

Titsworth, an island native, said clean water is per-

Marylou Kelley, BB public works staffer, dies

A member of the Bradenton Beach public works team, Marylou Kelley, 62, of Holmes Beach, died April 10 in the home she shared with her companion of 19 years, William “Billy” Limberg.

According to an obituary, Ms. Kelley was born Aug. 27, 1960, in Grand Rapids, Michigan

She was loved by many and will be greatly missed. A celebration of life will be 1-3 p.m. Saturday, April 29, at the Sports Lounge, 118 Bridge St., Bradenton Beach.

Ms. Kelley is survived by Billy; son Ian and partner Christy Tomlinson of Davenport; dad Bruce; granddaughters Allyson Williams, Darien, Chloe and Abigail Tomlinson of Florida and Chasity Tomlinson of Indiana; grandson Devin Tomlinson of Michigan; great-grandson Jensen Spelts of Indiana; siblings Jim and partner Connie, Judy and partner Eric Birdsall of Michigan, and Susan of Florida.

sonal to her, since she’s seen local sea life diminish over her lifetime. She said plentiful bay waters once held starfish, scallops and even horseshoe crabs but now are practically barren.

She said she hopes the campaign will inspire people to do what they can to improve local water quality.

“It’s gotten to the point now where everybody has to do something,” Titsworth said. “Every single person has to do their part.”

Sarasota Bay Estuary Program public outreach manager Megan Barry said many Floridians can relate to Titsworth’s experience and applauded the island cities’ campaign.

“Our water quality faces a lot more challenges than it historically has,” Barry told The Islander April 14. “Human activity and development put a lot of stress on our bay. … We all need to get involved and mitigate some of these activities that are causing stress.”

The SBEP is a cooperative partnership focused on improving the health of Sarasota Bay and promoting water stewardship.

Barry said the Islanders 4 Clean Water campaign might not address larger, systemic issues with water pollution but it is a good start to addressing issues.

“Promoting stewardship locally is going to have a direct local environmental impact. So I think that’s kind of why that local focus really does have a really deep return on investment,” Barry said. “You can see the changes so shortly after doing the right thing.”

While the campaign is the island’s first collaborative clean water initiative, all three island cities have separately approached the issue of water quality in some manner.

In Anna Maria, the city leased a T-end building on its city pier to the Mote Marine Laboratory to establish an educational outreach center.

Anna Maria Mayor Dan Murphy wrote in an April 13 email to The Islander that he believes the outreach center will “provide an educational platform for both public awareness of the issues we face with water quality as well as assisting in developing scientific solu-

tions.”

The outreach center is set to open Friday, May 5. The city of Bradenton Beach seeded tens of thousands of clams in bay waters near the city pier, where the filter feeders help clean the water.

Holmes Beach created a clean water committee in 2021 to act as an advisory board to the city commission, with a focus on coordinating community activity, philanthropy and government action to improve water quality.

“As I see it, all three cities in our island community are taking steps to address the issue facing us regarding water quality,” Murphy wrote. “We believe our island community as a whole is in the forefront on this issue and providing leadership in finding solutions.”

Commercial fishing industry workers in Cortez share their perspectives in 5 new videos.

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— robert Anderson

Kelley

Anna Maria-Wisconsin resident lynneia Miller, left, fishes with Holmes Beach resident larry Coover April 13 at the T-end canal at 67th and 68th streets in Holmes Beach. islander Photos: ryan Paice

Post invite riGHT: @visit_bradenton — the instagram account for the Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau — invites users to share their images from the old jail at the Anna Maria island Historical Society grounds in Anna Maria. FAr riGHT: An instagram post for the North Shore Cafe in Anna Maria features the cafe’s resident pup — Skipper, who “naps on the job,” according to the post.

islander Photos: Via instagram

Visitors bureau: Strike a pose on AMI

Say, “Insta.”

The Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau — Manatee County’s booster club for tourism — compiled for visitors a list of “the eight most Instagrammable spots” in the area.

Five spots on AMI made the list of eight:

• North Shore Cafe, 304 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, which features a “Greetings from Anna Maria Island” mural by artist Robert Johnson.

• Bean Point beach in Anna Maria, with the Tampa Bay and the Sunshine Skyway Bridge “as the perfect backdrop for capturing the perfect shot.”

• Ginny’s and Jane E’s Cafe and Gift Store, 9807

Gulf Drive, Anna Maria, which boasts “colorful vintage décor,” an “eclectic atmosphere” and a bright primary-colored façade.

• The old Anna Maria city jail, 402 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, for shots inside and outside the cell with “no roof, no doors, no windows, no bars.”

• The clocktower at the Historic Bridge Street Pier, 200 Bridge St., Bradenton Beach, described as “one of Anna Maria Island’s most iconic spots.”

Also on the list: Whitney’s restaurant on Longboat Key; the railroad bridge at the Bradenton Riverwalk; the Village of the Arts district in Bradenton.

— lisa Neff

Design for Earth Day

Holmes Beach is taking entries for its first annual Earth Day poster contest, themed “Islanders 4 Clean Water,” for 2023.

The contest will feature two brackets of competition — one children and one for adults.

Earth Day 2023

There are no rules on how to make a poster for the contest, other than it must be original and 8.5-inches wide by 11-inches tall.

The criteria for selecting a winner includes five factors: artistic merit, message, uniqueness to AMI, originality and creativity.

The city will accept physical and digital entries, which can be delivered to the deputy clerk at city hall, 5801 Marina Drive, or pwadministrator@holmesbeachfl.org.

The city will announce the winners Saturday, April 22.

Q&a 041923

The Islander poll

Last week’s question

By lisa Neff

My usual way of reaching an island beach.

41%. Drive.

51%. Walk.

3%. Trolley.

5%. Bike.

This week’s question

The most important environmental priority for local governments should be …

A. Working for clean water.

B. Banning single-use plastics.

C. Hardening against sea level rise.

D. Limiting development.

E. Reducing greenhouse gas emissions. To answer the poll, go online to islander.org.

Final phase of restoration starts at Cortez preserve

By robert Anderson islander reporter

The Florida Institute for Saltwater Heritage and the Sarasota Bay Estuary Program are restoring a section of coastline in Cortez with a mind for the environment.

Earth Day 2023

With the help of funding from the SBEP, FISH is completing the final part of a four-phase project begun in 2000 to return the 95-acre parcel to a natural state.

The preserve, 11655 Cortez Road W., is open to the public and maintained by FISH to preserve natural resources and create a buffer for the oldest fishing village in the state against development from the east.

Angela Collins, a FISH board member, said the SBEP has been in partnership with all the restoration activities on the preserve for more than two decades.

Collins is a Florida Sea Grant agent and a specialist on how population growth impacts marine environments.

“This restoration is the final phase and it’s been 24 years in the making,” Collins said in an April 11

interview with The Islander. “Originally the land was dominated by invasive and exotic plant species, it had a lot of trash, large debris that needed to be removed.”

In 2000, FISH and community members came together for phase 1 — a grass-roots effort to raise the money to purchase 95 acres immediately adjacent to the village.

In 2005, FISH purchased several additional parcels of land to enhance the preserve and provide more coastal habitat.

Phase 3 involved the removal of invasive species throughout the property and the reestablishment of native species.

As part of the phase 4 initiative, tree removal and land clearing are underway along the eastern edge of the preserve, where it borders Sarasota Bay RV park, 10777 Cortez Road W., Bradenton.

Staff scientist Jay Leverone of the SBEP estimated April 11 that grant funding to be expended on the project would total $800,000.

The SBEP is a member of the Association of National Estuary Programs and is dedicated to preserving and protecting Sarasota Bay.

SBEP funds will pay for the removal of invasive trees, the construction of a tidally linked wetland, the planting of native trees and routine maintenance for up to three months after the project is completed.

FISH, the SBEP and the Southwest Florida Water Management District also will assist Sarasota Bay RV Park with mitigating drainage and also filtration issues.

Leverone outlined a plan intended to allow water from retention ponds at the RV park to be flushed through the newly created wetland on the FISH property.

Allowing water from the park to run through a wetland of mangroves creates natural filtration and keeps

Sarasota Bay Estuary Program scientist Jay leverone and Florida institute for Saltwater Heritage board member Angela Collins survey a tidal marsh April 11 at the FiSH Preserve, 11655 Cortez road W., Cortez. islander

Anderson

pollutant-rich water from entering the bay, according to Collins and Leverone.

Leverone said the project should be completed in June.

About FISH

FISH is a volunteer nonprofit run by a 12-member board of directors that manages several properties in Cortez, including a 95-acre preserve, a boat shop, Fishermen’s Hall and the old Cortez volunteer fire stationcommunity center.

The nonprofit formed in 1991 and is dedicated to the promotion, education and preservation of Cortez and Florida’s commercial fishing and other traditional maritime cultures.

Board elections were set to take place April 17, after the Islander went to press.

To learn more about FISH or the preserve go online to: www.cortez-fish.org.

Meetings

ANNA MARIA CITY

April 27, 6 p.m., commission.

May 11, 2 p.m., commission.

May 25, 6 p.m., commission.

By lisa Neff

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

BRADENTON BEACH

April 19, 10 a.m., department heads.

April 19, 1 p.m., ScenicWAVES.

April 20, noon, commission.

May 3, 9:30 a.m., CRA.

May 3, 1 p.m., planning and zoning.

May 4, 6 p.m., commission.

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

HOLMES BEACH

April 19, 10 a.m.. sea turtle workshop.

April 25, 5 p.m., commission.

May 3, 5 p.m., planning.

May 19, 11:30 a.m., police pension fund.

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

WEST MANATEE FIRE RESCUE

None announced.

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

MANATEE COUNTY

April 20, 9 a.m., commission (land use).

April 24, 9 a.m., tourist development council.

April 25, 9 a.m., commission.

April 27, 9 a.m., commission (land use).

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

ALSO OF INTEREST

April 25, 1 p.m., Coalition of Barrier Island Elected Officials, Bradenton Beach City Hall.

FiSH board member linda Molto takes a walking survey in 2016 of the FiSH Preserve in Cortez. FiSH enthusiasts have worked for decades to protect the environmentally significant property, which serves as a buffer to development from the east. islander File Photo

Photo: robert

A graphic shows the final phase of a project at the eastern edge of the FiSH Preserve in Cortez. Upgrades will include the removal of exotic trees, the clearing of land and the construction of wetland environments. islander image: Courtesy SBEP

Pine Avenue project draws light interest to call for bids

By ryan Paice islander reporter

At least two contractors have shown some interest in the fi rst phase of Anna Maria’s Pine Avenue improvement plans.

City clerk LeAnne Addy told city commissioners April 13 that the municipality hosted an April 4 voluntary pre-bid meeting to talk with prospective vendors about the city’s request for proposals to complete sidewalk improvements along the commercial corridor.

Those attending the meeting included Sarasotabased C-Squared CGC and Tampa-based American Construction Services, according to Addy.

City commissioners voted in February to issue an RFP seeking a contractor to install end-to-end paver sidewalks along the roadway.

The city budgeted $1.5 million to complete the sidewalk improvements, as well as add and enhance crosswalks on Pine Avenue.

The improvements will be funded with a $1,288,400 state appropriation.

The city also budgeted $98,000 to test new lighting along a block of Pine Avenue to determine if further improvements should be made.

The project originally included a second phase that would have involved a roundabout at the northeast end of Pine Avenue, as well as the creation of bicycle lanes on both sides of the roadway.

However, commissioners voted in September 2022 to scrap the roundabout plans and in February to move forward with 5-foot-wide sidewalks instead of bike lanes.

Contractors have until April 17 to submit bids in response to the RFP.

The RFP asks contractors to provide bids to com-

ROAD WORK CONTiNUED FrOM PAGE 1

construction has reached the final stretch.

City engineer Sage Kamiya told The Islander April 10 that after Gulf Drive reopens, C-Squared would finish installing sidewalk pavers, landscaping and lighting conduits, as well as ropes and bollards.

After fi nishing those items, the contractor will demobilize and leave the area for about 30 days.

Then C-Squared will return to finish paving, including high friction surface treatments and restriping the roadways.

Kamiya said that the work likely would be conducted at night.

The final step will involve the installation of new light poles along Marina Drive but that work might not happen until late May-early June because the poles are on backorder.

Commissioners approve more road work

While work on the main corridor of the city center is nearing an end, a couple of other areas will receive additional improvements.

City commissioners unanimously voted April 11 for a $71,539.25 addendum to the city’s contract with

Motorists and pedestrians April 12 travel on Pine Avenue

plete several improvements, including a meandering paver sidewalk from end to end. islander Photo: ryan Paice plete the project, including alternative prices for using permeable brick pavers or flexi-pavers, which are made of shredded rubber.

Following the pre-bid meeting, the city issued revised bid sheets and an addendum on April 5 providing answers to some of the questions expressed at the meeting.

One question — when the city wanted the project to begin — was answered. “The city expects to sign the contract and give notice to proceed to the selected contractor at some point in early to mid-June of 2023.”

A contractor expressed concern about the city’s proposed 120-day time frame since it may take time for flexi-pavers to be ordered and shipped to the city.

The city responded, “The city will grant up to 60 days of extension to the substantial completion date if

Ready for summer season?

C-Squared.

The addendum contains two parts, including:

• $16,680.75 to install a pervious brick sidewalk along 56th Street from Marina Drive to replace some sidewalk removed during city center construction;

• $54,858.50 to improve the alley behind the Island

proof of delay from a manufacturer or product delivery is presented to the city for evaluation.”

Another question asks, “On Gulf/Pine Avenue, do we want the pavers with names on them?”

The city responded, “This will be discussed with the city once the contract is awarded.”

Other answers addressed choosing subgrade filler, erosion control and whether a contractor needs to be qualified with the Florida Department of Transportation.

There was no public comment at the April 13 meeting.

The commission will meet next at 6 p.m. Thursday, April 27, at city hall, 10005 Gulf Drive.

Directions to attend via Zoom can be found at cityofannamaria.com.

Motorists make their way April 12 through the intersection of Gulf and Marina drives in Holmes Beach, parts of which have been closed since construction on city center improvements began last September.

Shopping Center and the Shell gas station by resurfacing, adding defined parallel parking spaces and landscaping.

The commission will meet next at 5 p.m. Tuesday, April 25, at city hall, 5801 Marina Drive.

Directions to attend via Zoom can be found on the city’s website, holmesbeachfl.org.

in Anna Maria, where the city plans to com-

islander Photo: ryan Paice

Check the list

The island cities are united to mark Earth Day 2023 with a campaign — Islanders 4 Clean Water.

Islanders! That’s you.

Clean water! What can be more important to an island community?

The cities issued a call to action that The Islander can get behind, asking people to take 10 actions to “help keep our waterways clean” because “it starts with us.”

Consider taking the pledge on 10 actions:

Action 1: Conserve fresh water.

2: reduce and eliminate use of chemical fertilizers.

3: landscape with Florida-friendly plants and trees.

4: Use only ecofriendly and safe pesticides.

5: Properly dispose of hazardous household items.

6: reduce polluted stormwater runoff.

7: reduce usage of single-use plastics.

8: Be informed and report problems.

9: Work, live and play responsibly in our waterways.

10: Share these tips and challenge a friend.

To make a pledge to unite for clean water — and get entered for some prizes — go to islanders4cleanwater.com, check the action boxes and send the pledge sheet to Holmes Beach City Hall via email at deputyclerk@holmesbeachfl.org.

There’s also an option to drop off pledges at city hall, 5801 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach — but hey, why use printer, ink and paper when email is more eco-friendly?

We also encourage people to read this week’s special “GoodDeeds” listings of groups committed to eco-themed missions.

Find an organization or two — or 10 — to support with your time or dollars.

The late U.S. Sen. Gaylord Nelson, credited with founding Earth Day and driving the organization for the first Earth Day in 1970, encouraged us to recognize our place in the web of life in the world.

And he defined our goal: “Our goal is not just an environment of clean air and water and scenic beauty. The objective is an environment of decency, quality and mutual respect for all other human beings and all other living creatures.”

And aren’t we all lucky to strive for those objectives in paradise? Happy Earth Day!

Unwelcome plan

As board members of 5400 Gulf Drive in Holmes Beach, we are writing to express opposition to the proposed plan to build a parking garage at Manatee Public Beach.

A parking garage is not an appropriate expenditure of taxpayer funding. The state should be trying to solve our growing insurance crisis, not a manufactured parking crisis.

There is not a parking problem. There is a traffic issue.

Skimming online

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home rule.

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

▼ Editorial Editor lisa Neff, lisa@islander.org

robert Anderson, robert@islander.org

Joe Bird, editorial cartoonist

Kevin Cassidy, kevin@islander.org

Jack Elka, jack@jackelka.com

Brook Morrison, brook@islander.org

ryan Paice, ryan@islander.org

▼ Contributors

Karen riley-love

Jacob Merrifield

Capt. Danny Stasny, fish@islander.org

Nicole Quigley

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Judy loden Wasco

(All others: news@islander.org)

The construction of a parking garage is completely out of character for this island. Anna Maria Island is distinct from many other beachfront communities because of its low-rise policies.

While residents welcome visitors and renters, we must face the fact that at some point we will reach maximum human capacity. The city cannot provide services to an ever-expanding population.

Along with more people comes the demand for more services — water, fire, safety, police, etc. Our community is stressed, if not maxed.

Residents do not want a parking garage on our island.

And renters do not need a parking garage.

Please, respect our wishes and do not further disrupt the tranquility of Anna Maria Island, our home.

5400 Gulf Drive, condominium board of directors

Tackle traffic, resolve parking

The relaxed beach lifestyle of Anna Maria Island is in danger from the Florida Legislature. The parking garage bill threatens the ability of local communities to make their own decisions about growth and development.

From what I can see this bill is a direct assault on

HB 947 was introduced as a solution for parking at Manatee Public Beach.

However, the problem is traffic, not parking. This barrier island is overwhelmed by traffic on its two-lane roads. Long delays leave beachgoers stuck in lines at the bridges, unable to access the restaurants and businesses up and down the island. A parking garage will not alleviate the delays as the road can still only handle a finite volume of cars.

Local governments should be looking for creative solutions that improve access to the beaches and businesses and at the same time decrease the number of cars on the island: Water taxis, reliable and fast beach shuttles, designated bus lanes on the bridges and accessible off-island parking are only some of the proposed solutions.

It is unreasonable to spend $45 million for an unwanted and unnecessary building.

Rosemary Means, Bradenton Beach

Baffled by Rep. Robinson

We are writing to express not only our disapproval but our actual shock at the plan to build a parking garage in Holmes Beach.

We are visitors to the island. We chose Anna Maria

Earth Day 2023

OpinionYour

Island, not only for its natural beauty but because of its quaintness and charm.

We are baffled. Why are state Rep. Will Robinson Jr. and other politicians planning to force even more people onto the most crowded beach on the island? A location can only support a finite number of people comfortably and Manatee Public Beach is certainly at capacity.

We stay in a rental near Manatee Public Beach and already have to keep moving further and further down the beach, away from our rental, to find some space on the beach. It is frustrating.

On our latest trip, we spent a day at Coquina Beach and were so surprised to see how much less crowded it was than Manatee Beach. There were quite a few spots in the parking lot. And this was on a Saturday!

The next day, we went north to Anna Maria and we were again surprised to see how much less crowded those beaches were compared with Manatee. Why isn’t there any discussion of better utilizing the lesser-used but just as beautiful beaches?

Encouraging more and more people onto the most saturated beach on Anna Maria Island is not going to make it better for anyone.

We travel a lot and are regularly asked about the places we visit. Anna Maria is the one place we do not recommend to people due to the crowding and traffic. A parking garage is only going to make it go from bad to worse.

Kristen and Jay Swaine, Fayetteville, New York

Kiwanis thanks

On behalf of the Kiwanis Club of Anna Maria Island, we would like to thank our churches who took part in our 58th Annual Easter Sunrise Service.

The attendance was fantastic and the weather didn’t disappoint.

State contacts

Florida Governor: Republican Ron DeSantis, 850-717-9337, flgov.com.

Florida Senate: Republican Jim Boyd, 941742-6445, boyd.jim.web@flsenate.gov, flsenate. gov.

Florida House: Republican Rep. William Cloud “Will” Robinson Jr., District 71, 941-708-4968, will.robinson@myfl oridahouse.gov, myfl oridahouse.gov.

Thank you to the AMI Beach Cafe for the location, Chuck Caudill for providing the sound system, Morgan Bryant for her lovely voice, the city of Holmes Beach and the Holmes Beach Police Department for helping with the parking and The Islander newspaper for their reporting.

Another “thank you” goes to Casey Hoffman of Real Island TV, who for the first time live-streamed our service, which you can watch on YouTube.

We had our membership and their families helping to make Easter special for everyone.

Lastly, a huge “thank you” to the Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce, which awarded our club a grant to help defray expenses.

With this and the generosity of those who attended, we will be able to share the net proceeds among the churches and our scholarship fund.

We look forward to seeing everyone next year for our 59th Easter Sunrise Service.

Your opinion We welcome opinion letters. Please, submit a letter along with a name, address and phone number to news@islander.org.

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10&20 years ago

From the April 16, 2003, issue

• Two people were killed on the Cortez Bridge after a driver crashed through the barricade and struck the rising drawbridge.

• A Holmes Beach couple was arrested for fraud for the alleged sale of a security for the Island Wines and Spirits on Marina Drive after a judge ruled the rightful owner of the store was Provident Bank. A Sarasota businessman was suing the couple for selling him a liquor license they did not own.

• The Bradenton Beach Planning and Zoning Board approved an application from owner David Teitelbaum to add 23 units to the Tortuga Inn, 1325 Gulf Drive N. The board said the total number of units on the property would be 55, still below the maximum of 59 units allowed in a multifamilydwelling zone.

From the April 17, 2013,

issue

• Anna Maria commissioners asked for more public input on a proposed park — consisting of live oak trees, a grass lawn and 15 parking spaces — at the corner of Pine Avenue and Bay Boulevard North.

• After Holmes Beach commissioners agreed to place the Mainsail development plan on an agenda for reconsideration, action on the proposal to reconsider the prior revocation of the plan failed.

• The Florida Department of Transportation announced a series of public meetings on the future of the Cortez Bridge. The meetings were part of the project development and environmental study required before a bridge project can begin.

— lisa Neff

Print

Sandra K. Haas-Martens, Kiwanis Club of Anna Maria Island secretary

AM mayor details plans for city centennial celebration

By ryan Paice islander reporter

Anna Maria’s 100-year anniversary is just around the corner.

And city officials are ready to celebrate.

Mayor Dan Murphy said April 13 that plans for the city’s Memorial Day and Centennial Celebration were “coming together nicely.”

Anna Maria was the first of the island’s three cities to incorporate— doing so in 1923.

The cities of Holmes Beach and Bradenton Beach were incorporated in 1950 and 1953, respectively.

Murphy said the festivities would begin at 10 a.m. Wednesday, May 31, at City Pier Park, 103 N. Bay Blvd., with the city’s annual Memorial Day Patriotic Symphony Salute.

The Memorial Day program will honor fallen veterans, attending veterans, active service members and their spouses or significant others, with an orchestra performing patriotic music and the theme songs of each branch of the United States military.

Murphy said the program will run for about 45 minutes.

Afterward, the event will morph into a Centennial Celebration, featuring a cake-cutting and music that was popular during the time of the city’s incorporation.

Longtime islander Tom Aposporos will act as master of ceremonies for the event and discuss the city’s creation and its first mayor, Mitch Davis.

Murphy said he also asked the Anna Maria Island Historical Society to come up with interesting facts about the city’s history to present during the event.

“I’m looking forward to what they come up with,” he said.

Murphy said the city will create a commemorative flag for the event and place it on every other light post

along Gulf Drive and Pine Avenue, alternating posts with American flags.

He added that the city may offer some of the commemorative flags for sale to the public.

Murphy has previously said the city would create commemorative coins to hand out at the event.

Commissioner Deanie Sebring, a member of the Anna Maria Island Garden Club, said the club members want to donate a bench with a plaque commemorating the centennial.

Sebring said the bench could be placed near the flagpole at City Pier Park, where the garden club contributed to the recent addition of two wind sculptures as a part of an effort to beautify the island.

“We thought that would be kind of a nice touch,” she said.

There was no public comment.

Palma Sola highway committee drops bathroom plans

By ryan Paice islander reporter

A couple of portable toilets might solve the Palma Sola Scenic Highway Committee’s gripes about restrooms on the causeway.

Manatee County parks and recreation department grounds maintenance supervisor Liza Click told committee members April 12 that she would inquire about the potential addition of one or two port-a-potties at the causeway’s boat ramp.

The toilet addition may be an easy solution to an issue the committee has wrestled with in past months: there are no restrooms on the south side of the causeway.

Committee members initially sought to add a crosswalk and lower the speed limit to 30 mph on Manatee Avenue so people on the south side could safely cross to the bathrooms on the north side.

However, after the Florida Department of Transportation expressed concern about both suggestions, the committee pivoted and pursued the addition of permanent restrooms on the south side.

Committee Chair Craig Keys said a committee member would need to address Bradenton’s city coun-

cil to make such a request, since the city has jurisdiction over the land.

Committee vice chair Ingrid McClellan said two permanent restrooms for the causeway — a 1-mile stretch of road — may be unnecessary. She said she supported the addition of a crosswalk like the committee initially proposed, but no longer supported adding another permanent restroom.

She instead proposed adding one or two portable toilets to the causeway boat ramp to provide people at the ramp and on the south side with restroom access.

Click said she did not know why the county didn’t have portable toilets at the boat ramp already and would ask about adding toilets there.

She said the issue with portable toilets was the cost of regular cleaning, as well as overuse.

Click said the county received several complaints about the overuse of a portable toilet at the Kingfish Boat Ramp in Holmes Beach before it added a second port-a-potty, so they might want to add a pair of them right off the bat.

The scenic highway committee will meet next at 3:30 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 9, at the Bradenton public works building, 1411 Ninth St. W.

Battery fire extinguished in Anna Maria

By ryan Paice

islander reporter

A typically quiet Sunday afternoon ended with a bang April 16 in Anna Maria.

West Manatee Fire Rescue fire Marshal Rodney Kwiatkowski told The Islander that firefighters had extinguished a battery fire in the garage at 316 Hammock Circle, Anna Maria.

Kwiatkowski said Mayor Dan Murphy, who lives nearby, first reported hearing explosions around 4:56 p.m. coming from inside the home, owned by John and Ann Hackinson.

Firefighters arrived to find heavy smoke coming from the two-car garage.

After securing the perimeter, firefighters entered the property to find multiple lithium-ion batteries had exploded while charging in the garage, resulting in a “white glowing” fire that was extinguished with water.

Firefighters also rescued a dog from a kennel that

was in the house during the incident.

“The crews did an amazing job,” Kwiatkowski said. “It’s a good outcome. Nobody was hurt.”

While old and/or damaged batteries can be prone to fires or explosions, Hackinson told Kwiatkowski the batteries had been recently purchased, so one or more may have been defective.

“Even brand-new batteries can have a defect of some type straight from the manufacturer,” Kwiatkowski said.

Kwiatkowski did not provide an estimated cost of damage to the property but said it had been contained to the garage and a golf cart that was parked inside might be a total loss.

Murphy wrote in an April 16 text message to The Islander that he was happy the Hackinsons and their dog were unscathed.

“I heard several small explosions and ran over to their house. I thought John might be inside,” Murphy wrote. “My wife Barb called the Hackinsons’ cellphone

Murphy April 13 discusses the city’s plans for a Memorial DayCentennial Celebration in May to honor the 100-year anniversary of the city’s creation in 1923.

AM mayor announces new deputy clerk

The city of Anna Maria has a new addition to its administrative staff.

Mayor Dan Murphy announced April 13 at a city meeting that the city had hired West Palm Beach resident Fransheska Berrios as a deputy clerk.

The role has remained open since Debbie Haynes retired in December 2021.

Berrios will be leaving a position as deputy/utility clerk for the town of Mangonia Park, a post she has held since January 2013.

She graduated Nassau Community College in New York with a degree in business law. She also has a legal administrative assistant/secretary degree.

Murphy said he believes the city has found a “jewel” and was most impressed with Berrios’ people skills, which he said were a necessity for the role.

He said Berrios was set to move and begin work for the city in the first week of May.

Berrios, who attended the meeting via speakerphone, said she was “very pleased” to accept the position and was looking forward to the move and contributing to the city.

— ryan Paice

and, as it turned out, they were on the beach… much to the deputies and my relief!”

“We are so thankful nobody was injured!” he added.

Old-school aerial

A view of Anna Maria’s Pine Avenue looking toward the Gulf of Mexico from the Angler’s inn, a bayfront lodge. The photo is dated to the 1920s. The city of Anna Maria is planning a celebration to mark its centennial. islander

Photo: Courtesy Manatee County Public library System

Anna Maria Mayor Dan

islander Photo: ryan Paice

Smoke damage is evident on the facade at 316 Hammock Circle, Anna Maria, after an April 16 battery fire in the garage was extinguished. islander Photo: Courtesy WMFr

DOT updates future transportation, bridge plans

By robert Anderson islander reporter

The bridges of Manatee County, coming to a beach nearby.

Nicole Mills, interim director of transportation development for the Florida Department of Transportation’s District 1, talked April 12 about the bridges of Manatee County during a luncheon program in Bradenton.

Mills was the “headliner” at a Manatee Chamber of Commerce program at the IMG Academy Golf Club, 4350 El Conquistador Parkway, Bradenton.

About 80 people attended the event that featured a lunch and remarks about the DOT’s plans for Interstate-75 interchanges, urban core improvements to relieve downtown traffic congestion and new bridges.

The DOT plans to replace two bridges linking Anna Maria Island and the mainland and is studying options for the Longboat Pass Bridge. All three were built by the DOT in 1957.

Mills addressed plans for all three bridges.

The Cortez Bridge is scheduled for construction in late 2025 or early 2026 at a cost estimated at $110 million.

The replacement has been controversial in the village of Cortez, where some would rather see another drawbridge built instead of a high, fixed-span bridge.

“We want the people to be happy. We want to build a bridge that will make people proud,” Mills told The Islander while at the IMG club. “This is a lot of money, a lot of time and effort. That’s why we did an aesthetics committee. So we could get input from multiple groups.”

The DOT’s Nicole Mills speaks April 12 to Manatee Chamber of Commerce members during a chamber luncheon at iMG Academy Golf Club, 4350 El Conquistador Parkway, Bradenton.

Mills said the reasoning behind the DOT’s need for longer on and off ramps on the Cortez and Bradenton Beach ends of the proposed bridge is to comply with the U.S. Americans with Disabilities Act.

The act prohibits discrimination based on disability in employment, public accommodations, transportation and telecommunications as well as state and local government services.

“If we go steeper than 5% on the sidewalk, then it makes the sidewalk design more difficult from an ADA perspective,” Mills said.

The Anna Maria Island Bridge is targeted for construction in 2029, according to Mills, who said funding is not in place for the new State Road 64/Manatee

Avenue bridge.

Construction is estimated at $138 million.

The project involves replacing the existing bascule bridge with a high-level fixed bridge, much like the planned Cortez Bridge.

The new bridge will be built about 14 feet to the south of the existing bridge and provide 65 feet of vertical navigational clearance.

The DOT anticipates the maximum height of the surface of the roadway will be approximately 74 feet and the bridge will consist of two 12-foot travel lanes in each direction with 11-foot shoulders for emergency vehicles to pass and 10-foot sidewalks on each side of the bridge.

The new Manatee Avenue bridge will be approximately 3,150 feet long, as compared to the existing bridge, which is 3,123 feet long.

“That bridge design is pretty far along, as we’ve looked at it three different times over 30 years,” Mills said.

A new Longboat Pass Bridge design would be the latest entry into the DOT’s projects, with estimated construction in fiscal year 2032, Mills said.

However, the DOT is still conducting a project development and environment study for the bridge, which links AMI to Longboat Key.

Mills said the DOT is expected to complete the PD&E in 2026.

She also said the DOT most likely will not seek a high bridge replacement because there’s not enough water between the two land masses to construct a highclearance bridge.

Tiki & Kitty’s

There’s just no time for spring cleaning? Tiki and Kitty instead are mapping out their time for spring shopping at favorite thrifts and boutiques.

Blue Flamingo is home to hip and trendy upcycled and repurposed goods, furniture and decor, garden features, candles, jewelry and work by local artisans. They also offer Dixie Belle paints.

Cat’s Meow has 7,700 square feet of vintage, unique and repurposed items. You may want to lace up your skates, as this large (former) skating rink has plenty to offer bargain, antique, unique hunters. Plus, there’s a mancave and a cool clothing boutique. You

Miss us? WE MISS YOU AMI!

Stop by at our other locations:

Scavengers Marketplace SRQ

1175 N Washington Blvd

Scavengers Palmetto 2100 US Hwy 301

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

don’t want to miss this vast collection of vendors. Blessed and Distressed is a tastefully designed store — so inviting, you’ll want to pull up a chair — with collectibles and work by local artists. The store is at Palma Sola Square, around the corner from WinnDixie. It offers 30-plus vintage, upcycled, shabby chic and artsy vendors. You won’t be disappointed.

Scavengers Marketplace invites you to visit its many vendors at the Palmetto store, 2100 U.S. 301, where a portion of your purchase benefits Moonracer No Kill Pet Rescue — our favorite pet rescue group. Founder Lisa Williams leads the rescue efforts and also works at The Islander as office manager.

FYI: Scavengers also carries Fusion Paints.

Your place for fun, funky quirky!

Wed-Sat 10-5

Palma Sola Square Winn Dixie Plaza 615 59th St. W. Bradenton 941-896-8800

Dru Love, Owner

An artist rendering of the proposed Anna Maria island Bridge replacement put forward by the Florida Department of Transportation. islander Graphic: Courtesy DOT

islander Photo: robert Anderson

Compiled by lisa Neff, calendar@islander.org.

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Wednesday, April 19

Noon — Sarah Penner, author of “The Lost Apothecary” and “The London Séance Society,” at the library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341.

Thursday, April 20

10:15 a.m. — Island Morning Book Club, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341.

ONGOING

Throughout April, Artists’ Guild of Anna Maria Island’s exhibit featuring paintings and stained glass by Janet Razze, Artists’ Guild Gallery, 5414 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach.

Information: 941-778-6694.

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

Friday, April 21

6-8 p.m. — Music in the Park presents Dual Exhaust — blues, country and rock, Riverwalk Mosaic Amphitheater, 606 Third Ave. W., Bradenton: Information: 941-301-8445. ONGOING

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

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

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

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

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

SAVE THE DATE

May 4-14, Island Players’ “How the Other Half Loves,” Anna Maria.

May 13, Anna Maria Island Privateers Food Trucks, Pirates and Tunes Festival, Holmes Beach.

Island happenings

Library to host ‘family movie night’

The Friends of the island library will present the G-rated “Strange World” during “Family Movie Night” at 5:45 p.m. Thursday, April 20, at the island library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Attendees are invited to bring snacks, while the Friends provides popcorn and beverages. For more information, call the library at 941-778-6341. islander

Photo: Disney

Maria. Information: 781-983-1937.

5-8 p.m. — Center of Anna Maria Island Community Connections gathering and potluck supper, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria. Information: 941-778-1908.

ONGOING ON AMI

Dec. 1-2, Bradenton Blues Fest, Bradenton.

KIDS & FAMILY

Thursday, April 20

ON AMI

5:45 p.m. — Family movie night, “Strange World,” Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-7786341.

Friday, April 21

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

Tuesday, April 25

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

Wednesday, April 26

4 p.m. — Remake Learning: Make your own seed balls, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-7786341.

ONGOING OFF AMI

Through May 21, Mote Marine Aquarium’s “Voyage to the Deep” exhibit, 1600 Ken Thompson Parkway, Sarasota. Fee applies. Information: 941-388-4441.

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

SAVE THE DATE

April 29, De Soto Grand Parade, Bradenton.

CLUBS

&

COMMUNITY

Thursday, April 20

ON AMI

2 p.m. — Knit and Crochet Club, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341.

Friday, April 21

11:45 a.m. — Anna Maria Island Garden Club meeting and lunch, Roser Memorial Community Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna

A Hair Day Salon & Spa

Most Wednesdays, 1 p.m., mahjong club beginners, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-7786341.

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

Fridays, noon, bridge, Roser Memorial Community Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Information: 314324-5921.

Saturdays, 8:30 a.m., Kiwanis Club of Anna Maria Island meeting, Bradenton Beach City Hall, 107 Gulf Drive N., Bradenton Beach. Information: 941-7781383.

OFF AMI

Saturday, April 22

11 a.m. — Cortez Village Historical Society annual Cortez Picnic, Miller Dock, end of 123rd Street West, Cortez. Information: cvhs2016@aol.com.

ONGOING OFF AMI

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

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

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

SAVE THE DATE

April 29, Master Gardener Plant Sale, Palmetto. May 4, Paradise Center Kentucky Derby Party, LBK. May 6, Crawfish Boil, Center of AMI, Anna Maria.

OUTDOORS, FITNESS

Thursday, April 20

& SPORTS

ON AMI

Music Lessons: Guitar, Piano, Ukulele, Saxophone and Drum

Used & Consigned Musical Instruments

Open JAM 1st Wednesdays

941.896.9089

playitagainjams.com

8208 Cortez Road W., Ste.5, Bradenton

VIP Seniors outing set

The Center of Anna Maria Island set its April calendar for the VIP Senior group’s outings. The first trip will be Wednesday, April 19, with a visit to Detwiler’s Farm.

The group will depart at 9:15 a.m. from the center, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria.

For more, call the center at 941-778-1908.

CALENDAR CONTiNUED FrOM PAGE 10

Natural Resources, Coquina Beach, Bradenton Beach. Information: 941-742-5923, ext. 6036.

ONGOING ON AMI

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

OFF AMI

Island happenings

Bishop Museum series concluding at center

The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature will conclude its workshop series at the Center of Anna Maria Island, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria.

The series began in February and reaches its conclusion with three more programs.

All-ages programs — “How we Build” Wednesday,

‘How the Other Half Loves’ to open May 4 at AM theater

The Island Players will bring Alan Ayckbourn’s “How the Other Half Loves” to the Anna Maria theater May 4-14.

James Thaggard is directing the comedy.

Wednesday, April 19

9 a.m. — Oyster shell vertical gardens project, Robinson Preserve, 704 99th St. NW, Bradenton. Information: 941-742-5923.

Thursday, April 20

9 a.m. — Archaeo Paddle, Robinson Preserve North Entrance, 1704 99th St. NW, Bradenton. Information: 941-742-5923.

Saturday, April 22

9 a.m. — Master Gardener Tour, Perico Preserve, 11700 Manatee Ave. W., Perico Island. Information: katiebg@ufl,edu.

9 a.m.-noon — Earth Day at the NEST, Robinson Preserve expansion, 10299 Ninth Ave. NW, Bradenton. Information: ecoevents@mymanatee.org.

ONGOING OFF AMI

Through Sept. 3, Bradenton Marauders baseball, LECOM Park, 1611 Ninth St. W., Bradenton. Fee applies. Information: 941-7473031.

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

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

SAVE

THE DATE

April 29, Florida Maritime Museum/Suncoast Remake Learning Days’ Free Hands-On Festival, Cortez.

Oct. 7, Florida Maritime Museum Cortez Nautical Flea Market, Cortez.

GOOD TO KNOW

KEEP THE DATES

April 22, Earth Day.

May 5, Cinco de Mayo.

May 14, Mother’s Day.

May 20, Armed Forces Day.

May 29, Memorial Day.

June 1, Atlantic hurricane season begins.

Get listed! Send listings to calendar@islander.org.

Odd Duck Designs Shop

Wearable T-shirt art by local artist Connie Wolgast.

The cast includes Caleb Allen, Maggie Carter, Katherine Dye, Tom Horton, Eric Johnson and Kristin Mazzitelli.

Performances will take place Tuesday-Saturday at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday at 2 p.m. The theater is dark Mondays.

The box office will open Monday, April 24, for ticket sales. Hours through the run will be 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Mondays-Saturdays, as well as an hour before performances.

Tickets at the box office cost $25. Online, the cost is $27.

The theater is at 10009 Gulf Drive.

For more information about the Island Players, call the box office at 941-778-5755 or go online to islandplayers.org.

Dockside picnic on deck

The Cortez Village Historical Society will host its spring picnic at 11 a.m. Saturday, April 22. The celebration will be at the Miller Dock at the end of 123rd Street West in the fishing village. People are asked to bring a dish to share. For more information, email the historical society at cvhs2016@aol.com.

Island garden club to hold final meet of 2022-23

Anna Maria Island Garden Club members will gather at 11:45 a.m. Friday, April 21, for a general meeting and luncheon.

The program will be the last of this season.

The meeting will be in the fellowship hall at Roser Memorial Community Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria.

April 19 and “Florida’s Native Wildlife and Adaptation” Wednesday, May 3 — will take place at 6 p.m.

Also, for adults, the center will host “Florida’s Native Wildlife and Adaptations” at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, April 20.

For more, call the center at 941-778-1908.

AMI center to host potluck supper, crawfish boil

Please, pass the casserole and share friendship. The Center of Anna Maria Island will host a Community Connections gathering 5-8 p.m. Friday, April 21.

People are invited to the center, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria, to meet their neighbors, make new friends and share a dish at the community dinner table. The center also is selling tickets for its annual crawfish boil, which will be 5-8 p.m. Saturday, May 6.

For more information, call the center at 941-7781908.

De Soto Grande Parade set for April 29 in Bradenton

Manatee County’s annual spring celebration, the De Soto Heritage Festival, concludes with a grand parade.

The parade will be at 7 p.m. Saturday, April 29, in Bradenton. An estimated 100,000 people line Manatee Avenue to watch more than 150 entries parade past.

The parade will begin at Manatee High School, turn west on Ninth Avenue West, turn north on 39th Street West, turn east on Manatee Avenue and finish in downtown Bradenton.

Roads for the parade will close at 5 p.m.

For more details about the events, including the parade route, go online to desotohq.com or call 941747-1998.

Annie Silver center hosts book sale, lunch

The Annie Silver Community Center will host a potluck lunch and book sale Saturday, April 22.

The activities will run 10 a.m.-1 p.m. at the neighborhood center, 103 23rd St. N., Bradenton Beach.

Everyone is welcome.

For more information, call Dianne Coates at 724787-1418.

Scan here shop!

to

etsy.com/shop/OddDuckDesignsShop 941-224-1897

Earth Day 2023

AmE NEWS

By Brook Morrison

AME student turns skills, hobby into business

Move over Frank Epperson, the ice pop inventor at age 11, there’s a new young entrepreneur at work.

Meet Alex Serra, an Anna Maria Elementary fifthgrader who has turned his love for 3D printing into an Anna Maria Island business.

Alex received his first 3D printer for Christmas in 2021.

He spent several months figuring out how to design for 3D by making small animals and cups before he asked for a second printer for his birthday in April 2022, mostly because he wanted to print more than one item at a time.

Alex and his mother Jen worked together to design AMI ornaments, which he hand-painted and began selling in AMI Facebook groups.

“His business was so good he even took one of the printers on family vacation so he could keep churning them out,” Jen Serra wrote to The Islander in an email.

To date, Alex has sold about 200 ornaments, which are carried by Beach Blossom Studio on Pine Avenue in Anna Maria and Bridge Street in Bradenton Beach and at the Beach Shop on Cortez Road in Cortez.

After Christmas, Alex got to work designing and printing AMI keychains.

“I love living on Anna Maria Island since it allows me to freely ride my bike around and it feels like paradise and I have awesome teachers who support me,” Alex said in an April 11 interview with The Islander. After creating a few keychains for himself and his family, Alex decided to start selling them. He set up shop on his mother’s website, 52ndstreet-

Anna Maria Elementary fifth-grader Alex Serra poses with work product April 5 at his home in Holmes Beach. “i want to be an engineer, architect or STEM teacher when i grow up,” said Alex, a member of AME’s robotics team, Garden Club and Battle of the Books team. He also is a first-place finisher for his division in the School District of Manatee County Science Fair. islander Photo: Courtesy ryan Serra

designs.com, and started taking orders.

It wasn’t long before the orders started coming in and now the keychains are sold at Beach Bums on Pine Avenue Anna Maria.

Alex sometimes can be spotted delivering the keychains by bicycle.

“He purchases all his own materials from his profits and saves most of the rest and he says by age 16 maybe he’ll have made enough to buy a car,” said Jen Serra.

Alex’s keychains have become so popular that he’s purchased a third printer with his earnings to give him more print space.

Alex also can be found hosting a lemonade stand once a month.

He rides his bike to Publix in Holmes Beach for supplies, then bakes cookies and makes lemonade for his weekend sales.

So what’s next for the young entrepreneur?

“He now tinkers with small electronics and is working on building a solar-powered iPhone charger,” said his mom.

Homeschool advantage

lEFT: Down by the Bay Homeschoolers of Anna Maria island compete April 14 on the field at the Center of Anna Maria island. The event included 58 kids competing in eight events, including tug of war, sack races, limbo and more. The co-op organization provides support and group events to homeschool students and their parents/guardians. it is operated by Brooke Svoboda and Katy roadman. BElOW: issaac roadman goes low for the limbo. islander Photos: Mike Svoboda

AME speechmakers

Competing in the sack race are Matthew Darak, Sam Dellinger, raegan Keston, ruby Keston, Jeremiah raulerson, Edelweiss Krauss, Haven Smith, Yazyma Smith. Caroline Svoboda and Judah long battle it out for first place with rella Keston, Myla Smith and Max Smith.

Competitors in a 40-yard dash include Caroline Svoboda and Judah long battling it out for first place with rella Keston and Myla Smith behind the pack, while Max Smith smiles on.

AME fourth- and fifth-grade 4H school speech contestants pose April 13 in the school auditorium. Fifth-grader Cooper Pitkin won first place for his speech about eyesight. islander

Photo: Courtesy AME

Garden springs to life

AME Garden Club volunteers take a break from improving school grounds for a photo April 1. The club meets once a month. Check amepto.org for May’s meetup.

Earth Day 2023

AME fifth-grader Holton Sebastian pays homage to the rod & reel Pier in Anna Maria in an entry for a poster contest for Earth Day 2023.

AME Calendar

• Thursday, April 20, SAC meeting, 3:45 p.m., media center.

• April 24-28, PTO board nominations, amepto.org.

• Tuesday, April 25, first-grade play, 6:30 p.m., auditorium; PTO dinner, TBD, 5 p.m., cafeteria.

• May 1-5, staff appreciation week.

• May 2-3, English language arts state assessments.

• May 9, PTO board meeting, 3:30 p.m., conference room.

• May 9-10, fifth-grade science assessments.

• Saturday, May 13, spring gala.

• May 16-17, state math assessments.

• Friday, May 19, field day.

• Friday, May 26, last day of school for students.

Anna Maria Elementary is at 4700 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach.

For more information, call the school at 941-708-5525.

Song and dance class

AME second-graders perform Broadway tunes April 11 during a musical in the auditorium. The next class performance and PTO-sponsored dinner will be Tuesday, April 25. islander

i.wed

The Islander Wedding Directory

ACCOMMODATIONS

Bungalow Beach Resort DIRECTLY ON THE BEACH! Classic 1930s island-style resort. 800-779-3601 bungalow@bungalowbeach.com www.bungalowbeach.com

MUSIC/ENTERTAINMENT

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

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

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

Photo: Courtesy AME

islander

Photo: Courtesy AME

Gathering

By lisa Neff

Longboat Island Chapel to observe Earth Day

“Nature Talks and Walks” will draw Earth Day celebrants to Longboat Island Chapel.

The Saturday, April 22, event will feature exhibitors, garden tours, bay walks, talks and more.

There is no admission charge.

Earth Day 2023

Tours will take place 11 a.m.-1:30 p.m. and there will be exhibitors in the garden, including representatives of the Florida Forest Service, Florida Maritime Museum, Longboat Key Turtle Watch, Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, Suncoast Surfrider Foundation and Save Our Seabirds.

At 1:30 p.m., the focus will shift indoors at the fellowship hall for a panel discussion on water quality, ocean acidification, wildlife conservation, eco-restoration and preservation.

The Maine Line Food Truck also will be on-site.

The chapel is at 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key.

For more information, call the chapel at 941-3836491.

Tidings

Compiled by lisa Neff

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

Worship: Sundays, 9 a.m.

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

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

Worship: Thursdays, 9:30 a.m.; Sundays, 8 a.m., 10:15 a.m.

Ongoing: Wednesdays, 8 a.m., men’s meeting; Mondays, 1 p.m., book group.

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

Worship: Sundays, 9:30 a.m.

Ongoing: Sundays, 10:15 a.m., coffee and fellowship.

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

Worship: Sundays, 9:15 a.m.

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

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

Ongoing: Tuesdays and Thursdays, 9:30 a.m., Roser Robics;

Kiwanis club tallying collections from sunrise service

The Kiwanis Club of Anna Maria Island as of April 10 had collected $11,519 in donations from its annual Easter sunrise service on the beach.

The amount was $700 less than collected in 2022.

However, the club was still accepting donations

Roser casting for musical

Roser Memorial Community Church is inviting children of elementary school age to perform in “Martin and the Doors,” a musical that will be staged at the church for Mother’s Day. Rehearsals are at 4 p.m. Wednesdays. The musical will be at 7 p.m. Friday, May 12, at the church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. For more, call the church at 941-781-0414.

Tuesdays and Thursdays, 9 a.m.-2 p.m. and Saturdays, 10 a.m.-1 p.m., Roser Thrift Store; Wednesdays, 6:15 p.m., Youth Performing Arts, first and third Wednesdays, 11: 30 a.m., Just Older Youth group programs with brown-bag lunch; Thursdays, 5:30 p.m., Roser Ringers rehearsal; 7 p.m., Thursdays, choir rehearsal; Sundays, 8:30 a.m., adult Sunday school and coffee and conversation sessions.

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

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

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

OFF AMI

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

Worship: Sundays, 10 a.m.

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

Musical•May 12

All kids

K - 5th Grade are invited to be in the musical! Rehearsals are Wednesdays at 4:00 PM in the Roser Church Sanctuary.

READ MORE: RoserChurch.com/musical

Questions? Call the church or email Craig Ramberger, Director of Music Ministries: craig@roserchurch.com

By John Parker & Joseph M. Martin

The rev. Dirk rodgers, pastor of roser Memorial Community Church in Anna Maria, gives the Easter sunrise sermon, “Why?

When Jesus Meets Doubt” to the crowd of beachgoers at the Kiwanis Club of Anna Maria island sunrise service at the Manatee Public Beach in Holmes Beach.

islander Photo: Bonner Joy

on its website at www.amikiwanis.com.

After expenses, the club will share the collection with participating churches and also invest in its scholarship fund.

For more information, call Sandy Haas-Martens at 941-778-1383.

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

Worship: Sundays, 10 a.m.

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

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

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

SPECIAL DATES & EVENTS

April 22, 11 a.m.-3 p.m., Earth Day celebration, Longboat Island Chapel.

June 19-22, Vacation Bible School, CrossPointe. GET LISTED

Send listings and announcements to calendar@islander.org. Also, please, as seasons shift, send changes in schedules.

Obituary

‘Tootie’ (Kane) Baldini

Suzanne “Tootie” (Kane) Baldini, 93, of Holmes Beach, died Feb. 24. She was born April 18, 1929, and grew up in Mt. Jewett, Pennsylvania. She graduated from secretarial school in Ithaca, New York, and was the office manager at Weatherby Insur-

PlEASE, SEE OBITUARY, NEXT PAGE

Worship With Us At Our Church Sunday Ser vice 10:00 AM

The Rev. Dr. Nor man Pritchard

Men’s Bible Study: Monday @ 9:00

Women’s Bible Study: Wednesday @ 10:00

Visitors & Residents Welcome Watch Our 10: 00 AM Ser vice Live: www bit ly/cclbksermons or www christchurchof lbk org (follow YouTube link)

SUNDAY WORSHIP

8:30 AM & 10:00 AM

IN PERSON � in the Sanctuary Nursery • Children’s Church ONLINE � Watch LIVE or LATER RoserChurch.com

Text ROSER to 22828 to receive the weekly eBulletin

The CHAPEL is open during office hours for prayer and meditation

FOLLOW us on Facebook @RoserChurch

Baldini

Suzanne

Milestones

Sandpiper generations

Her memories of AMI go back to 1967.

Marianne A. Glover, born in Germany in 1926 and arrived to the United States in 1951, is an energetic 96-year-old and a Bradenton Beach snowbird, having moved to the Sandpiper Resort in 1967 with her late husband.

She was remarried to Jack Glover, a Michigan farmer, in 1972 and they also spent winters at the mobile home resort.

Mrs. Glover moved to Bradenton with her daughter in 2019, still spending time in Florida, Michigan and Alabama, where she has a grandchild, three greatgrands, 10 great-great grands and one great-great-great grandchild.

Glover’s second generation — daughter Helga Matos — also was born in Germany. At 72, she enjoys reading and Sudoku — and keeping up with mom.

Granddaughter Leslie Cooper — generation three — was born in Bradenton and now, at 52, works and lives in Fyffe, Alabama, where she is busy raising four grandchildren.

Generation four — Ashley (Cooper) Padgett — also was born in Bradenton. She lives with husband Scott in Pisgah, Alabama.

Her daughter, Alissa Couch, 16, is Grover’s fifth generation. She too was born in Bradenton and now resides and works in Fyffe, where she is raising her 11-month-old daughter, Nova.

Grover still drives and gets around on her own energy. She knits — about 300 stocking caps a year

OBITUARY FrOM PAGE 14

ance for more than 40 years.

She married the love of her life, Albert Baldini, and they raised their three sons in Ithaca, where they were active in the Cornell University community with Delta Upsilon and sporting events.

She vacationed on Anna Maria Island for years and made Island Village her permanent home upon retirement. She loved golf, dancing, playing the piano and entertaining with her “Shooters” golf group. She welcomed all as family.

Mrs. Baldini is survived her sons, Bob, Rick and John; daughters-in law Boots and Kim; grandchildren

74TH SEASON

HOW THE OTHER HALF LOVES

BY ALAN AYCKBOURN

DIRECTED BY JAMES THAGGARD

CO-PRODUCED BY SATO REAL ESTATE

May 4-14

Two living rooms and three couples literally and hilariously overlap. Frank and Fiona reside in an upper-class house. Bob and Teresa live in a middle-class mess. Fiona and Bob are having an affair and must entangle the naive William and Mary in this beloved farce about adultery and alibis.

SHOWTIMES: 7:30 PM Tuesday-Saturday

2 PM Sunday Matinees

d TICKETS: $25 i

Box office: 9-1, Monday-Saturday and 1 hour before curtain

ONLINE TICKETS: $27

theislandplayers.org

941.778.5755

10009 Gulf Drive at Pine Avenue, Anna Maria

Family members pose with matriarch Marianne Glover, bottom right, including Ashley Padgett, leslie Cooper, Helga Matos, Alissa Couch and infant Nova Cooper. Not pictured, Samantha Couch. islander Courtesy Photo

that she donates to schools, shelters and churches in Michigan.

She also crochets and is working on an Afghan for the youngest family member.

She makes hand towels, fancy potholders, purses, baby blankets and other items — always keeping her hands busy. And she and her generations of daughters also stay active in their churches.

Ryan, Rory and Madison and their spouses/significant others, Lindsey and Nicole; great grandchildren Gracie and Deacon; and her extended loving family and friends.

A celebration of life Mass will be at 11 a.m.

Friday, April 28, at St. Bernard Catholic Church, 248 S. Harbor Drive, Holmes Beach, followed by a toast with family and friends at the Freckled Fin Irish Pub, 5337 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. Memorials may be made to Tidewell Hospice House in Bradenton.

At your service

Obituaries are offered as a free community service to residents and families of residents, both past and present, as well as to people with ties to the island. Submit to news@islander.org. Paid obituaries can be discussed with ad consultant Toni Lyon at 941-778-7978.

They got ‘Spirit’

Carol and Bob Carter share their “Spirit Manatee” award, received March 29 at the Bradenton Area Convention Center in Palmetto from the Manatee Community Foundation. in late 2022, the Carters moved from Anna Maria, where Carol Carter had served as a city commissioner and both Carters engaged in a number of civic and community affairs supporting causes on and off AMi. They were nominated by Meals on Wheels PlUS and the Center on Anna Maria island for the Mary E. Parker lifetime Spirit Award. The award, according to the foundation, is “given to a couple who demonstrate a lifetime record of exceptional generosity in the community.” For more information, go online to manateecf.org or call 941-747-7765.

Milestones

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

– ZIPPIA

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GoodDeeds: Environmental groups at work on, around AMI

Let’s celebrate!

April 22 marks the 53rd year of Earth Day and the birth of the modern environmental movement.

The massive support for the first Earth Day moved the public on environmental issues and moved Congress to action, resulting in lasting environmental legislation.

What might be the results of support for Earth Day 2023?

GoodDeed-doers seeking to celebrate Earth Day and join local environmental organizations on and around AMI might connect with:

• All Clams on Deck, allclamsondeck.org. Their mission is “restoring seagrass and high-density clam sites while creating avenues for commercial fishing communities to become more involved with environmental restoration.”

• Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring, islandturtlewatch.com. Their mission is to coordinate “with county, state and federal efforts to conserve sea turtles — particularly loggerheads” — the most frequent nester on AMI.

• Bradenton Beach ScenicWAVES, cityofbradentonbeach.com. The mission is to advise on beautification, landscaping and scenic highway improvements in the city.

• Florida Institute for Saltwater Heritage, fishcortez.org. Their mission is “the promotion, education and preservation of Cortez and Florida’s commercial fishing and other traditional maritime cultures.”

• Holmes Beach Parks and Beautification Committee, holmesbeachfl.org. The mission is to advise on parks, beautification and other improvements in the city.

• Holmes Beach Clean Water Ad Hoc Committee, holmesbeachfl.org. The vision is to “ensure waters will meet the designated human uses for drinking, shellfish harvesting or swimming and fishing, while sustaining healthy natural ecosystems that support natural processes and resilient native plant and animal communities..

• Islanders 4 Clean Water, holmesbeachfl.org.

Their mission is to “bring attention to issues that contribute to the quality of our waters.”

• Keep Manatee Beautiful , manateebeautiful. com. The mission is to bring “together volunteers, businesses and local governments to provide grassroots solutions to littering, illegal dumping, solid waste disposal, recycling and beautification.”

• Manasota-88, manasota88.org. The mission is to protect “the public’s health and preservation of the environment.”

• Manatee-Sarasota chapter of the Sierra Club, sierraclub.org/florida/manatee-sarasota. The mission is to “enjoy and protect the natural places in our community, teach others to understand and respect the fragile environment in which we live and promote the responsible use of Florida’s ecosystems and resources.”

• Manatee County Audubon, manateeaudubon. org. Their mission is to “protect, preserve, and restore the natural environment by creating an awareness and appreciation of birds, wildlife, and our native habitat

Early hurricane forecast: below-average season

By lisa Neff islander Editor

Researchers at Colorado State University are predicting a slightly belowaverage Atlantic hurricane season in 2023.

Earth Day 2023

They cited the likely development of El Nino as a primary influence in the forecast released April 13.

The CSU prediction is one of several forecasts The Islander looks for ahead of the season that runs June 1-Nov. 30.

CSU researchers said, “Current large-scale conditions and forecasts indicate that a transition to El Nino is relatively likely in the next several months. However, there is considerable uncertainty as to how strong El Nino would be if it does develop. El Nino tends to increase upper-level westerly winds across the Caribbean into the tropical Atlantic. The increased upper-level winds result in vertical wind shear, which can tear apart hurricanes as they try to form.”

However, eastern and central tropical and subtropical Atlantic surface temperatures are much warmer than normal, while Caribbean surface temps are near long-term averages.

Anomalously warm eastern and central tropical and subtropical Atlantic tend to favor an abovenormal season.

“Given the conflicting signals between a potentially robust El Nino and an anomalously warm tropical and subtropical Atlantic,” the CSU team stressed there is more uncertainty with the outlook.

The researchers predicted 13 named storms during the Atlantic hurricane season.

Of those, they expect six to become hurricanes and two to reach major hurricane strength, with sustained winds of 111 mph or greater.

The forecast is based on modeling that looks at conditions and factors for 25-40 years of historical hurricane seasons.

The 2023 hurricane season is exhibiting characteristics similar to 1969, 2002, 2004, 2006, 2009, 2012, 2014 and 2015.

“Our analog seasons exhibited a wide range of outcomes, from below-normal seasons to hyperactive seasons,” Phil Klotzbach, CSU research scientist, said in a news statement. “This highlights the large uncertainty that exists with this outlook.”

The team predicts that 2023 hurricane activity will be about 80% of the average season from 19912020.

By comparison, 2022’s hurricane activity was about 75% of the average season.

The 2022 season produced two devastating major hurricanes:

• Fiona, which brought massive flooding to Puerto Rico before causing significant surge, wind and rain impacts in Canada as a post-tropical cyclone;

• Ian, which made landfall as a Category 4 hurricane in southwest Florida, causing more than 150 fatalities and $113 billion in damages.

As always, the researchers cautioned coastal residents to take proper precautions.

“It takes only one storm near you to make this an active season for you,” CSU professor Michael Bell said.

In another projection, AccuWeather predicted an average Atlantic hurricane season for 2023, with 11-15 named storms.

in Manatee County and the surrounding areas.”

• Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium , mote.org. Their vision is to “be a leader in nationally and internationally respected research programs that are relevant to the conservation and sustainable use of marine biodiversity, healthy habitats and natural resources.”

• Sarasota Bay Watch , sarasotabaywatch.org. Their mission is to “initiate innovative and effective action … to assure the sustainability of Sarasota Bay, its stakeholders and all its inhabitants.

• Sarasota Bay Estuary Program, sarasotabay. org. Their mission is to “improve the health of Sarasota Bay and enhance the area’s natural resources for public benefit.” There also is a Tampa Bay Estuary Program at tbep.org.

• Surfrider Foundation Suncoast Chapter, suncoast.surfrider.org. Their mission is the “protection and enjoyment of the world’s oceans, waves and beaches for all people through a powerful activist network.”

• Suncoast Waterkeeper, suncoastwaterkeeper. org. Their mission is to “protect and restore the Florida Suncoast’s waterways through enforcement, fieldwork, advocacy and environmental education for the benefit of the communities that rely upon these precious coastal resources.”

The Center of Anna Maria Island — centerami. org — also operates a green initiative and the Manatee County Parks and Natural Resources Department — mymanatee.org — conducts many volunteer programs, workshops and tours at preserves.

The Anna Maria Island Moose Lodge —mooselodge2188.com — and Anna Maria Island Privateers — amiprivateers.wildapricot.org — also lead cleanups on AMI.

Do’s and don’ts for sea turtle nesting season

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission recommends people follow these guidelines for sea turtle safety:

• DO turn off or adjust lighting along the beachfront to prevent nesting sea turtles from becoming disoriented and moving toward the glow of light on land, instead of natural light reflecting on the surface of the water. indoor lights should be turned off, with curtains closed after dark and outdoor lighting should be turtlefriendly bulbs. Use fixtures low to the ground and shielded from view at the shoreline.

• DON’T use flashlights or camera flashes on the beach at night. They can distract nesting sea turtles and cause them to return to the water.

• DO clear the way at the end of the day. Nesting female sea turtles can become trapped, confused or impeded by gear left on the beach at night. remove items such as boats, tents, rafts and beach furniture and fill in holes or level sand castles before dusk. Holes trap turtles and can injure people.

Call code enforcement to report unattended property or large holes on the beach.

City of Anna Maria code enforcement — 941-708-6130, ext. 139 or ext. 129.

City of Bradenton Beach code enforcement — 941-778-1005, ext. 280.

City of Holmes Beach code enforcement — 941-778-0331, ext. 260.

report sick, injured, entangled or dead sea turtles to the FWC Wildlife Alert Hotline, 1-888404-3922, #FWC or *FWC on a cellphone or text Tip@MyFWC.com.

For more information, contact Kristen Mazzarella annamariaturtlewatch @gmail.com or 941-232-1405.

— lisa Neff

A volunteer shows a littered bottle during a past cleanup at the Kingfish Boat ramp in Holmes Beach. Several organizations, including Keep Manatee Beautiful, seek volunteers for island cleanups. islander File Photo: lisa Neff

New turtle watch leader to fill ‘big shoes’ on AMI

By Bonner Joy islander Editor

Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch has new leadership.

The board announced April 5 that Kristen Mazzarella is the new executive director — just in time for the May 1 start of sea turtle nesting season on Anna Maria Island.

Longtime AMITW executive director Suzi Fox died in September 2022.

“I’m excited to be a part of the AMITW team. I have big shoes to fill but I hope to live up to the legacy Suzi created,” Mazzarella said in a news release.

Mazzarella has 25 years of sea turtle experience and more than 15 years of shorebird experience as a senior biologist with Mote Marine Laboratory’s Sea Turtle Conservation and Research Program.

Prior to Mote, Mazzarella worked in North Carolina and South Carolina. She holds a master’s degree in marine biology and has overseen several Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission marine turtle permits, as well as research permits.

Mazzarella said she is looking forward to working on Manatee County beaches.

“I hope to meet a lot of the residents and businesses of the three cities. AMITW has a long history of turtle and bird conservation and our team is dedicated to continuing that work,” she said.

Monitoring for sea turtle nesting season began April 15 and will continue through Oct. 31, or the hatch date for the last nest to hatch.

“We are very fortunate to have someone with Kristen’s experience joining us to continue Suzi’s work,” said Diane McCausey, president of AMITW’s board of directors.

Mazzarella chatted with The Islander April 15 — the first day of morning checks for signs of nesting by turtle watch. She responded to questions via email:

The Islander: Are you feeling excited about your new career with AMITW?

Kristen Mazzarella: Yes, I’m very excited about working for AMITW. They had a strong and fearless leader and those are big shoes to fill but I hope to live up to Suzi Fox’s legacy.

The volunteers are so dedicated and Manatee County has been amazingly supportive of AMITW’s conservation efforts.

I’m thrilled to get the chance to be a part of this community.

How did you learn about the job?

KM: I worked with Paula Clark, a good friend of Suzi’s, when we were both in the Sea Turtle Conservation and Research Program at Mote. I also knew Suzi through the sea turtle community as we did complementary jobs on neighboring islands.

Will you work year-round or only in sea turtle nesting season?

KM: The work is year-round, though the field work for sea turtle season generally ends in October, or when the last nest hatches.

The data we collect must be reviewed, quality-controlled and reports written for the county and FWC.

As you know, Suzi built a brand that is recognized by both visitors and residents.

The outreach and fundraising programs she created are year-round and we start prepping for the next season in February.

You were acquainted with Suzi and AMITW before your appointment. What sort of interactions did you have?

KM: Yes, we were friends. The sea turtle folks on the west coast collaborate frequently, especially when there are nourishment projects, changes to protocols from FWC and other data that need to be shared.

We’re a very close-knit community and we rely on each other a lot as a sounding board, for advice and just to get together to have fun and share stories.

How will you start off the season this year?

KM: This year will be a “getting to know” experience for both myself and the volunteers. We have a great group of volunteers who do everything from field work to public outreach and fundraising.

I look forward to getting to know everyone and learning from them.

I’ve only been in the job for 1.5 weeks, so there’s a lot to learn about!

At the moment, I’m working on getting our nesting beach surveys up and running. …

What will change this year for volunteers?

KM: This year will be a learning year. I want to learn about how things ran in the past before I implement changes. …

I’m working on meeting with each of the volunteers to see what we can try to improve upon and what will stay the same.

The one thing that will change this year is that FWC has requested that we start patrolling earlier than in previous years. …

Will you be surveying for nests again via ATV or will volunteers resume walking the beach?

KM: We will still be using the vehicles for this season.

Can residents, newcomers and visitors expect a schedule of “Turtle Talks”? Turtle Walks on the beach?

KM: We will provide as much public outreach and education as we can this season.

We may not have the same amount of scheduled outreach events, but we’re going to try doing as much as possible.

Will there be an education outreach program at Anna Maria Elementary School — and/or any other Manatee schools?

KM: School programs are an important part of our outreach. We will look at what has been done in past years and see what we can do for next year.

On the subject of school outreach, will you be able to sync with the new Guy Harvey program at AME?

KM: I think it’s a great addition to the school district, especially for island schools. We will see where we might provide a good fit with the programs we have offered in the past.

Will there be AMITW-city inspections in the three cities for compliance on lighting and other turtlefriendly code restrictions?

KM: Yes, working with the various code officers for each city is part of the service we provide.

What are the most important do’s and don’ts for people who want to help nesting and hatching sea turtles? And shorebirds?

KM: For residents, following the ordinances that each city has put in place for sea turtle and shorebird season is most important.

For visitors, remembering not to disturb nesting females and emerging hatchlings, filling in any holes they dug and knocking down their sandcastles before they leave the beach, not using any light source on the beach at night and taking all the things they brought to the beach when they leave.

For shorebirds, respecting any posted areas, avoid flushing groups of birds, keeping pets off the beach and taking everything with them when they leave. …

What can islanders expect to see about shorebird nesting this year?

KM: Your guess is as good as mine. That one is up to the birds. We’ll be on the lookout for nesting black skimmers, least terns and snowy plovers.

Will you have an office on the island? How will you coordinate activities with the volunteers?

KM: Thanks to all the great technology available, coordination and communication doesn’t necessitate having a physical space.

We may get a physical location for me at some point but, with few exceptions, I’ll be on the beach working with the volunteers.

I still have Suzi’s same phone number (941-2321405) and the email address where folks can reach me is annamariaturtlewatch@gmail.com.

What’s your favorite sea turtle story?

KM: Oh, there are so many! I guess one of my favorite memories was helping with the satellite tagging of the loggerhead turtle “Bortie” up here on Anna Maria Island and how a couple of weeks later, “Bortie” showed up nesting on Casey Key, where I was doing night-time tagging of sea turtles.

It was a nice surprise having the connection between our two programs and getting to tell Suzi that I saw her turtle nesting.

And for the sea turtle fans on Anna Maria Island and The Islander, that’s good karma.

Sea turtle nesting season on AMI officially begins May 1 but Mazzarella and the turtle watch team began their morning beach patrols April 15.

AMITW is preparing for the female loggerheads to start nesting along the shore, as well as monitoring for nesting shorebirds.

Meanwhile code enforcement in Holmes Beach is ramping up efforts for compliance with sea turtle regulations. The department is hosting a “Sea Turtle Lighting Workshop” at 10 a.m. Wednesday, April 19, at city hall, 5901 Marina Drive.

Staff will make a presentation on best practices for beachfront lighting.

For more info, contact code officer Jayson Clayton at 941-932-6147 or jclayton@holmesbeachfl.org.

Mazzarella

Kristen Mazzarella marks a nest she found on the beach during a past sea turtle nesting season. islander Courtesy Photo

Kristen Mazzarella looks in on a sea turtle at Mote Marine laboratory during her prior 15-year service at Mote. islander Courtesy Photo

AMI vacationer relieved by MCSO response to lost rings

By robert Anderson islander reporter

Local heroes has a ring to it.

Manatee County Sheriff’s Office deputies helped to reunite a vacationer on Anna Maria Island with some deeply sentimental and valuable jewelry.

Andrea O’Donnell of Grosse Ile Township, Michigan, and her family have visited the island for the past five years and each time rented the same home in Anna Maria.

This spring break, the O’Donnell family had to make a hasty trip April 1 to the airport.

“At that point, our time in our rental house was up and we were in a panic trying to figure out what we were going to do if we couldn’t get a flight out,” O’Donnell said in an April 13 interview with The Islander.

She said another family was scheduled to begin its stay in the rental and her family felt rushed.

“In the craziness, I left my engagement ring and another very important ring that my husband had given me for our 10-year anniversary on a nightstand next to the bed,” O’Donnell said

Later that day, after departing the island, O’Donnell realized she didn’t have her rings, which she valued at more than $20,000.

O’Donnell reached out to the rental agency to let them know what had happened.

The cleaning service, however, did not locate the rings.

The rental company told O’Donnell they would keep looking, check vacuum traps and alert a company that does their linens.

O’Donnell also contacted the MCSO and was connected with Deputies Jared Leggett and JoAnn Parkinson of the Anna Maria substation.

“He listened to me, he was very reassuring and gave me hope. He made me feel hopeful. He also gave me a bunch of information on different ways to handle the issue,” O’Donnell said of Leggett.

She said Parkinson kept in touch, finally calling days after her departure to say the rings were found under the foot of the bed the cleaning crew.

Prime Vacations, the management company, wrote in an email to The Islander: “We were thrilled to be able to reunite this couple with their precious wedding rings.”

O’Donnell’s relatives from St. Petersburg collected the rings.

“I don’t think I could ever do enough to let them know how wonderful the Manatee sheriff’s office was and how seriously they impacted my life,” O’Donnell said. “They were wonderful. For anyone visiting, anyone living there just knowing that you have that support and that they will truly do anything they can to help you.”

Found on the beach

Holmes Beach police respond about 8 a.m. April 16 to a vehicle on the beach — apparently stuck in the sand. No owner or operator was present, and the vehicle, registered in Palmetto, was towed. No other information was available as The islander went to press. islander Photo: Courtesy Holmes Beach

Island watch

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

JEREMY NEWTON AND TRACY GRAY / EDITED BY WILL SHORTZ

is an engineering manager for a

company. Tracy Gray, of Hunt Valley,

owns and operates a lawn-and-landscaping business with her husband. They initially connected via Facebook. They shared the work of making this puzzle throughout, even in the end splitting the duty of writing the clues — one of them the Acrosses and the other the Downs. — W. S.

Andrea and Shane O’Donnell pose March 27 with their children — Sophie 5, left, Kellen, 10, and Connor, 13, during their spring break from Michigan to Anna Maria island. islander Courtesy Photo

Off-duty HBPD officer saves choking man

By ryan Paice islander reporter

Sometimes the call of duty goes beyond jurisdiction and work hours.

Palmetto resident Jim Ward told The Islander April 13 that Holmes Beach Police Sgt. Tom Frasier saved his life April 4 by performing the Heimlich maneuver on him when he started choking during dinner with his family at Cracker Barrel, 636 67th St. Circle E., Bradenton.

“We were sitting there waiting for our meal and I took a drink of water. It went down fine but about two minutes later I guess it decided to come up,” Ward said. “When it did, it choked me, and I couldn’t breathe at all.”

Ward said his sister-in-law went to help him when a man he only knew as “Tommy” realized what was happening and sprang into action.

“Tommy” is HBPD Sgt. Tom Frasier.

“He gave me three really quick jerks. On the second one, the water came out. And the third one, I started breathing,” Ward said. “If it wasn’t for him, I would be dead right now. … The waitress didn’t even see it. The manager didn’t see it.”

“The only way I knew to thank that man was I snuck out and I paid for his meal for him and his family,” Ward added. “I owe my life to Tommy. … I’m 80 but I’m not ready to exit yet.”

Ward said he wished he could do more for Frasier, who he believed should be recognized for his actions.

Frasier told The Islander April 13 that he was lucky to even be at the Cracker Barrel instead of a nearby Sonny’s BBQ.

“I was just coming back from Busch Gardens with my family and we decided to stop at Cracker Barrel for a late dinner,” Frasier said. “I said to my family, ‘Do you want to go to Sonny’s BBQ or Cracker Barrel? And my daughter said ‘Let’s just go to Cracker Barrel.’”

He said his daughter made a powerful comment

after it was all over. She said, “If we went to Sonny’s we would have seen an ambulance pull up to Cracker Barrel and wonder what was going on there.”

Frasier said his daughter saw Ward choking first and told him what was happening.

“I just automatically went into my training,” Frasier said. “He was sitting directly behind me, so I just moved my chair and got behind him. I made sure he was choking, which he was, so I gave him four or five Heimlich thrusts and he was breathing again.”

The Heimlich maneuver is an emergency technique used to dislodge an obstruction in the windpipe — air is forced up the windpipe by applying sudden, sharp pressure to the abdomen just below the rib cage.

“(Ward) bought me and my family dinner that night and that was good enough for me. But he didn’t even need to do that,” Frasier said. “He seemed like a really nice guy when I met him, so I’m just glad I was there.”

The officer found himself in a situation similar to

Ward’s a couple of years ago, when he began choking on coffee while eating a meal with other Holmes Beach police officers, who did the Heimlich.

“I know exactly what that guy was going through,” he said.

Frasier also assisted Manatee County Sheriff’s Deputy Jared Leggett Jan. 19 in resuscitating MCSO Sgt. Brett Getman, who suffered a heart attack while at the Anna Maria substation.

U.S. Coast Guard-Station Cortez responds April 7 to a vessel capsized 25 miles southwest of longboat Key. According to an incident report, three mariners were clinging to the hull of their vessel after their boat overturned in heavy seas. They were rescued without injury and returned safely to land. islander

Photo: Courtesy U.S. Coast Guard-Station Cortez

Holmes Beach Police Sgt. Tom Frasier. islander

File Photo: Bonner Joy

Cops & Courts

Tampa man arrested for assaulting relatives in HB

By ryan Paice islander reporter

Holmes Beach police arrested Tampa resident Brian Vikingstad, 48, April 7 on four felony charges for allegedly breaking into his relatives’ island home and assaulting them.

Vikingstad was charged with two first-degree felonies for burglary with battery and aggravated battery involving a victim aged 65 years or older.

He also was charged with another first-degree felony for burglary with battery and third-degree felony for battery of a person aged 65 years or older.

Multiple officers responded around 10:45 p.m. to reports of a battery with serious injuries.

Two officers contacted the complainants at their property in the 6300 block of Flotilla Drive.

A man, who “had a substantial amount of blood” on his clothes, answered the door and allowed them to enter.

Inside, the officers found a woman lying on the floor of the living room, covered in blood and with several towels near her head soaked in blood.

An offi cer asked her if she could hear him and she said “yes,” but was otherwise unable to speak. He

stayed there until West Manatee Fire Rescue paramedics and Manatee County emergency medical services arrived.

The woman was later transported to HCA Florida Blake Hospital in Bradenton for emergency treatment.

The officers interviewed the male victim, who told police Vikingstad had entered their home uninvited around 9:45 p.m. through an unlocked front door and started an argument before battering the woman with his hands.

He said Vikingstad “beat her face to a pulp” over a period of 15 minutes, according to a report.

The man said he was physically unable to stop Vikingstad’s assault and was struck when he tried to intervene. He displayed bruises on his arm to police.

The male victim said Vikingstad needed psychological help but he wanted to press charges.

He also said Vikingstad threatened to kill them during the incident and had previously threatened to come to their home but had never done so before then.

Another two officers located Vikingstad, who had blood stains on his shorts, around 10:45 p.m. in the

Trial for stabbing attack in Cortez set for April 24

By robert Anderson islander reporter

The trial of Cortez resident Abigail Nunn for allegedly stabbing a man in the stomach over the Fourth of July is set for April 24.

The Manatee County Sheriff’s Office and Emergency Medical Services were called July 4, 2022, to the 4000 block of 128th Street West in Cortez after a 911 call relating to a stabbing.

Abigail Nunn, 41, allegedly attacked a 57-yearold man during an argument, according to a probable cause affidavit from the MCSO.

The report said the man was stabbed in the abdomen while fleeing a home. Outside, while lying on some stairs, he had called 911.

The man was taken in serious condition to HCA Florida Blake Hospital in Bradenton.

Nunn was arrested and taken to the Manatee County jail, where she was booked on a charge of aggravated battery with a deadly weapon.

In Florida, the second-degree felony is punishable by up to 15 years in prison and a $10,000 fine upon conviction.

Nunn pleaded not guilty and, at her first appearance July 5, 2022, the court imposed a supervised release to stay at the home of her parents.

According to Manatee County records, Nunn was released July 6, 2022, from the jail after paying a $10,000 bond.

Nunn’s case is before Judge Fredrick P. Mercurio.

The trial is scheduled for 9 a.m. Friday, April 24, at the Manatee County Judicial Center, 1051 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton.

6200 block of Flotilla Drive.

The officers detained him and searched the area for evidence.

The officers transported Vikingstad back to the Holmes Beach Police Department for processing.

There, Vikingstad refused to provide a statement or answer questions about the incident but did not remain silent.

An officer transported Vikingstad to the Manatee County jail, where he remained as of April 14 under $80,000 bond — $20,000 for each of the four charges.

If convicted, punishment for a first-degree felony charge includes up to 30 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.

Punishment for a third-degree felony charge includes up to 5 years in prison and fine of up to $5,000.

Assistant public defender Layron Jaime Gaither April 12 filed a plea of not guilty on behalf of Vikingstad.

An arraignment will be at 9 a.m. Friday, May 19, at the Manatee County Judicial Center, 1051 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton.

Streetlife Staff reports

Island police reports

Anna Maria

No new reports

The Manatee County Sheriff’s Office polices Anna Maria.

Bradenton Beach

No new reports.

The Bradenton Beach Police Department polices Bradenton Beach.

Cortez

April 6, 4000 block of 128th Street West, larceny. An MCSO deputy responded to a report of a stolen electric bicycle. A complainant found a cable and lock severed and the bicycle missing.

April 7, 11000 block of Cortez Road West, larceny. An MCSO deputy responded to a report of a stolen bicycle. The complainant said the bike was taken overnight from in front of an RV.

April 7, 4600 124th St. W., A.P. Bell Fish Co.,

PlEASE, SEE STREETLIFE, NEXT PAGE

Bradenton Beach man arrested by HBPD for DUI

By ryan Paice islander reporter

Holmes Beach police arrested Bradenton Beach resident Kevin Branigan, 59, April 11 on a seconddegree misdemeanor for allegedly driving under the influence of alcohol.

Branigan also was charged with misdemeanors for driving without a license and failing to register his vehicle.

An officer saw a motorist in the 2700 block of Gulf Drive on a moped with no taillights and no plate, so he conducted a traffic stop, according to an incident report.

After initially failing to respond to the officer’s emergency lights, the officer activated his siren and the motorist pulled over.

The offi cer spoke to the motorist, identifi ed as Branigan, who said the person who sold him the moped told him he did not need a license or registration to drive it.

The officer noted that Branigan’s eyes were “watery and glassy” and he could smell “a strong odor

STREETLIFE FrOM PAGE 20

overdose. An MCSO deputy responded alongside Manatee County Emergency Medical Services to an overdose. Paramedics informed the deputy the man had received Narcan, causing him to regain consciousness. EMS transported the man to HCA Florida Blake Hospital in Bradenton.

The MCSO polices Cortez. Holmes Beach

April 7, Manatee Public Beach, 4000 Gulf Drive, fraudulent use of handicap placard. An officer from the Holmes Beach Police Department saw a motorist park in a handicap parking space and approached the driver, a man who alluded to being deaf. He had a Florida driver’s license and an Ohio handicap placard. The officer noted the man’s father had an Ohio driver’s license and the man “advised the placard was probably his father’s.” The officer confiscated the vehicle’s handicap placard, placed it in storage and asked Sgt. Mike Dinius to contact the state of Ohio about its ownership.

April 8, 600 block of Manatee Avenue, found person. Two officers were approached by a motorist who appeared to be suffering from dementia and was asking for directions. The officers contacted Manatee County emergency medical services, which evaluated the driver and transported him to HCA Florida Blake Hospital in Bradenton. One officer searched the vehicle and found a sticky note with a phone number. When

of an alcoholic beverage on his breath,” according to a report.

The officer asked if Branigan had any drinks before driving and Branigan said he’d had a couple at a bar, but was on his way home.

Branigan performed and failed field sobriety exercises.

The officer arrested Branigan and transported him to the Holmes Beach Police Department, where he twice refused to provide a breath sample to police.

The officer also issued a citation for operating a vehicle without lights at night.

The offi cer transported Branigan to a Manatee County sheriff’s deputy, who transported Branigan to the Manatee County jail.

Branigan was released April 12 on $360 bond.

If convicted, punishments for a second-degree misdemeanor includes up to 60 days in jail and a fine of up to $500.

An arraignment will be at 8:55 a.m. Tuesday, May 16, at the Manatee County Judicial Center, 1051 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton.

he called, he spoke to the man’s wife, who said he had gone missing earlier that day. The officer contacted the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office to report the missing man had been found.

April 10, 5100 block of Fifth Avenue, burglary/ grand theft. An officer responded to reports of a stolen electric bicycle and spoke with the complainants, who said an electric bike went missing from their garage. The provided a description and pictures but could not fi nd a serial number. Both complainants wanted to pursue charges and provided sworn affidavits.

April 11, 3200 block of Sixth Avenue, bike theft. An officer responded to reports of a missing bike and met with the complainant, who said one of her bikes went missing from outside their rental property. She said she contacted the rental agency to obtain security footage of the incident, which showed a person taking the bike. The missing bike was recovered by police. The owner asked to pursue a case if an offender was arrested.

April 11, 5500 block of Marina Drive, DCF notification. An officer saw a motorist drive around a detour barricade, so he conducted a traffic stop. The officer spoke to the driver and saw several juveniles in the back of the vehicle without seat belts. The driver and front passenger told police they were unemployed and had no home. The officer contacted the Florida Depart-

HB police chief celebrates Easter at the beach

Holmes Beach Police Chief Bill Tokajer hands out Easter candy April 8 to children he encountered while cruising the beach and celebrating the holiday weekend, an annual tradition for Tokajer and his wife, Thea. islander Photo: Thea Tokajer

ment of Children and Families to provide the driver and passenger with assistance or resources. He also issued the driver written warnings.

April 12, Citgo, 3015 N. Gulf Drive, domestic disturbance. An officer responded to reports of a domestic disturbance at the gas station and found the complainant, an intoxicated man who said he and his wife had been arguing. He said his wife struck herself and threatened to tell police he hit her. The officer spoke to the wife, who said her husband threw his phone at a wall and it had hit her in the face. She also said he accidentally hit her legs under a blanket when striking a bed in their truck. The officer found the incident did not meet the criteria for a domestic battery arrest since both parties said the man did not intend to hit his wife.

HBPD polices Holmes Beach.

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

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Cops & Courts

Burglar, bike, golf cart thief arrested in Holmes Beach

By ryan Paice islander reporter

Holmes Beach police arrested North Carolina resident Baryn Helbing, 19, April 12 on five felony charges for burglary, grand theft and possession of a controlled substance.

Charges include a second-degree felony for burglary of an unoccupied dwelling, a third-degree felony for grand theft of a motor vehicle, two third-degree felonies for burglary, as well as a third-degree felony for possession of a controlled substance without a prescription.

The arrest allegedly ended a two-day crime spree across the island city.

A woman called the Holmes Beach Police Department around 2 p.m. April 10 to report that a lowspeed vehicle she rented went missing from the property where she was staying in the 100 block of 49th Street.

She said she contacted Anna Maria Golf Carts

RoadWatch

Eyes on the road

• Gulf Drive in Bradenton Beach : Manatee County is relocating and replacing sewer lines in Bradenton Beach along Gulf Drive from Sixth Street South to 13th Street South. Motorists can expect a detour and traffic delays. The contractor currently is installing the gravity sewer between Ninth Street South and 11th Street South. For more information, go online to amiprojects.io.

• Gulf and Marina drives in Holmes Beach: A road contractor is working near the intersection of Gulf and Marina drives on infrastructure improvements. Traffic patterns can change. For the latest, check the city’s page on Facebook.

• Holmes Boulevard in Holmes Beach: Manatee County is working on a force main project near Holmes Boulevard, which can result in some traffic delays and congestion. For the week beginning April 17, the focus is on installing the new force main pipeline along 58th Street between Holmes Boulevard and Marina Drive, according to amiprojects.io.

• State Road 789 over Greer Island Park (Beer Can Island) at the Longboat Pass Bridge: Crews will begin making overnight repairs Monday-Thursday, April 24-27, 2023. Motorists can expect flagging operations 9 p.m.-5 a.m.

about the missing vehicle and the rental agency provided a GPS reading of the LSV’s location at 3201 E. Bay Drive.

The woman said she went to the location, where “an unknown … male was seen by the cart and when approached … left the area by jumping the fence,” according to a report.

She took a photo of the man before he left the area and retrieved the LSV.

However, a police search of the area failed to find the man.

Around 8 p.m. April 10, an officer responded to reports of a stolen electric bicycle worth about $1,500 from a property in the 5100 block of Fifth Avenue.

The complainants said they first found an abandoned bike outside around 5 p.m., then went inside to discover the electric bike was missing from the garage.

The officer dusted the abandoned bike for fingerprints but found none and no nearby security cameras caught footage of the incident.

The police caught a break the next day when a woman called the HBPD to report her bike, which matched the one that was abandoned the day before, was missing from outside the property where her family was staying in the 3200 block of Sixth Avenue.

The complainant said she contacted the property’s rental agency, which provided video of the incident.

“She showed the video of the suspect taking the bicycle on 4/10/23, at approximately 1142 (hours). The video was clear and the suspect appeared to be the suspect from the stolen golf cart incident on 4/10/23. The bicycle in question was found to be the bicycle that had been found and placed into HBPD bicycle barn for safekeeping,” a report reads.

Around 1 p.m. April 12, an officer found the man riding the stolen electric bike and followed him to where he parked outside Hurricane Hanks, 5346 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach.

There, the officer approached the man, identified as Helbing, with his stun gun drawn and issued verbal commands before handcuffing the man.

The victim of the electric bike theft was contacted and responded to the scene, where he identified the bike as his.

Helbing told police he found the bike on the beach near a pier “somewhere on the island.”

The officer arrested Helbing and transported him to the HBPD for processing, where the victim of the golf cart theft positively identified the man as the suspect in her case.

“Once questioned again and advised of the security

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footage and other evidence, Helbing confessed to all crimes,” the HBPD report reads.

An officer also searched Helbing’s backpack and found a package containing buprenorphine, a controlled substance, and naloxone.

Helbing told police he is addicted to opioids and his girlfriend shares her medication to treat his withdrawal symptoms.

An offi cer turned over custody of Helbing to a Manatee County sheriff’s transport unit that drove Helbing to the Manatee County jail.

He was released April 12 on $14,000 bond.

If convicted, punishments for a second-degree felony charge include up to 15 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.

Punishments for a third-degree felony charge include up to five years in prison and a fine of up to $5,000.

An arraignment will be at 9 a.m. Friday, May 19, at the Manatee County Judicial Center, 1051 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton.

Bradenton man pleads no contest to burglary charges

Bradenton resident Levi Oxendine pleaded no contest April 12 to a charge of burglary of an unoccupied structure in Bradenton Beach.

Oxendine, 23, had been scheduled to go to trial later this month.

His sentencing will take place after he testifies in a June 26 trial, according to Manatee Clerk of the Circuit Court public information officer Jennifer Linzy.

The other trial is a 2018 case involving Cody Ray Oxendine, accused of manslaughter and the grand theft of a firearm, according to court records.

Levi Oxendine had been arrested for seconddegree burglary of an occupied structure, first-degree obstruction without violence and possession of drug paraphernalia March 30, 2022.

— robert Anderson

Island watch In an emergency, call 911. To report info, call the MCSO Anna Maria, 941-708-8899; Bradenton Beach police, 941778-6311; Holmes Beach police, 941-708-5804.

HB resort granted another shot in circuit court

By ryan Paice islander reporter

It seems like there is no end in sight to litigation between the city of Holmes Beach and an island resort.

Judge Charles Sniffen of the 12th Judicial Circuit ruled March 30 in favor of the city’s pleadings against the Bali Hai Beach Resort, 6900 Gulf Drive, but granted the defendant one more chance to amend its counterclaims, according to city attorney Erica Augello.

The resort opened in 1971 but was purchased in 2019 for about $20 million by developer Shawn Kaleta, who subsequently renovated the property.

The city, claiming the business was not permitted to operate a bar, issued a stop work order for construction of a bar/lounge on the property in January 2020 due to a lack of permits and a site plan.

The business has claimed since the purchase that it is permitted to operate a bar/lounge and a prior allowance should have continued under Kaleta’s ownership.

The dispute has led to several lawsuits between the city and business, including one filed by the city in May 2020 claiming the resort violated the city’s building and land development code by failing to obtain permits, failing to obtain a certificate of completion and violating a stop work order.

The city’s lawsuit requested the court issue injunctions to enjoin Bali Hai from conducting any work in violation of the city’s stop work order, as well as to enjoin it to comply with the municipality’s building and land development code.

In August 2020, the Bali Hai filed a counterclaim to the city’s arguments, seeking more than $30,000 in damages.

Over the almost three years since, the resort’s counterclaim has been amended twice.

The city fi led a motion in September 2022 for judgment on the parties’ pleadings.

A hearing to discuss the motion was held March 30

in front of Sniffen, who ordered in favor of the city’s pleadings but allowed the Bali Hai another chance to amend its counterclaim.

However, Augello told The Islander April 13 both she and the Bali Hai’s legal counsel required clarification regarding Sniffen’s order.

She said they did not know if the judge would issue an order or if he was waiting for them to write a proposed order for him to sign, so they requested transcriptions of the hearing to resolve the issue.

Augello said if the resort failed to amend its counterclaim, the city would pursue injunctions for an evidentiary hearing or jury trial.

“I think at the end of the day, the city is just going to continue to move forward because it’s just seeking compliance with its code,” Augello said. “Until such time as it gets compliance, it’s going to alleviate itself with any mechanisms available to it to get compliance with the code.”

Augello said there have been no settlement discus-

sions between the city and resort.

Guests recreate April 5 in the central courtyard of the Bali Hai Beach resort, 6900 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. islander

Another hearing for the case had yet to be scheduled as of April 15, according to the Manatee County Clerk of Court.

Kaleta also filed a federal lawsuit Jan. 31, 2021, against the city, claiming the municipality has run a “black-ball campaign” against the developer that has resulted in more than $3 million in damages. He dropped the lawsuit in August 2022, and then refiled in October 2022.

The lawsuit claims the city violated Kaleta’s constitutional rights and asks the court to grant injunctive relief ordering the city to cease “unlawful practices,” order the city to engage in corrective measures and award the developer damages.

There were no hearings set for the federal case as of April 15.

Attorney Louis Najmy, of the Bradenton-based Najmy Thompson law firm, did not respond to an April 11 call from The Islander.

with Karl Lukitsch and a German meal. Sing,

Photo: ryan Paice

Youth, adult soccer play on, horseshoes, golf, too

By Kevin P. Cassidy islander reporter

After two weeks of youth soccer action at the Center of Anna Maria Island, there are only three teams with perfect records.

Cheesecake Cutie and Sato Real Estate in the 8-10 division are tied for the league lead with matching 2-0 records with Island Real Estate and Solid Rock Construction right behind with 1-1 records. Am I Coconuts and Westfall’s Lawn Care & Pest Control complete the standings with 0-2 records.

Cassidy

Gulf Drive Cafe sits atop the 11-14 division with a 2-0 record, just ahead of HSH Designs, both sporting 1-0-1 records. Moss Builders follows at 0-1-1, while Shady Lady Horticultural Services completes the standings at 0-2.

Action in the 8-10 division kicked off on April 11 with Cheesecake Cutie taking on Island Real Estate. After a scoreless first half, Cheesecake Cutie exploded for three second-half goals, including two from Gunnar Maize. Aidan Guess added another goal and Sawyer Leibfried helped preserve the victory with seven saves.

Miles Moss helped keep Island Real Estate in the game with six saves in the loss.

The second match of the night saw Solid Rock Construction edge Westfall’s Lawn Care & Pest Control 2-1 behind two goals from Matthew Darak.

Callin Westfall scored the lone goal for Westfall’s Lawn Care.

The last 8-10 division match saw Sato Real Estate cruise to a 5-0 victory over Am I Coconuts behind a pair of goals from Brandon Sato. Salvatore Vera, Dylan Sato and Everly Chaplinsky each added a goal and Vincent Gollamudi made four saves in the victory.

Andre Harwood was outstanding in goal for Am I Coconuts, finishing with eight saves in the loss.

Action in the 11-14 division kicked off April 11 with HSH Designs outscoring Shady Lady Horticultural Services by a 4-2 margin. Krosby Lamison scored two goals and Cecelia Kroth and Kirra Quimby each scored to lead HSH, which also received 10 saves from Chase Castagna in the victory.

Ryk Kesten scored both goals for Shady Lady.

The last match of the night saw Gulf Drive Cafe cruise to a 4-1 victory over Moss Builders behind a hat trick from Luke Dellinger and a goal from Theo Aupelle. Kegan McGlade added an assist and Jasmine Sparks had eight saves in the victory.

Adult soccer continues on center pitch

Midway through the spring adult soccer league schedule, Sandbar Restaurant and Solid Rock Construction are tied atop the standings with matching 3-1 records, just ahead of Sato Real Estate and Duncan Real Estate, both at 2-1-1.

Moss Builders is in third at 2-2, while Vintage Beach follows at 1-2-1. Pool America is alone in sixth and Gulf View Windows & Doors is in last place.

Action April 13 got started with Gulf View Windows battling Duncan Real Estate to a 5-5 tie. Keith Mahoney scored four goals and Kris Yavalar added a goal to lead Gulf View, which received four assists from Raul Loera and 17 saves from goalie Mark Long.

Murat Akay scored two goals and Nick Cavaluzzi, Javier Rivera and Kevin Roman each scored a goal, while Tuna McCracken made 15 saves and added an assist for Duncan Real Estate.

Solid Rock Construction edged Moss Builders 4-3 in the second game of the night, as Stephen Adair scored three goals and Amy Ivin added a goal and an assist for Solid Rock, which also received a six saves from Karri Stephens and Yuri Pereira in goal.

Alta Bujarski, David Moss and Gerardo Urbiola Bolanos each scored a goal to lead Moss Builders, which also saw six saves from Brian Leibfried in the

loss.

The third match of the evening saw Sato and Vintage Beach battle to a 4-4 tie. Jacek Czajkowski scored two goals and Kai Hunkler and Lindsey Styka each scored a goal to lead Sato, along with seven saves from Benjamin Sato.

Joey Hutchinson scored two goals and Mandy Sky and JD Webb each scored goals for Vintage. Danny Free helped keep them in the game with 11 saves.

The last match of the night saw Sandbar Restaurant edge Pool America 3-2 behind a hat trick from Daniel Anderson.

Dean Hinterstoisser and Nate Welch scored a goal each for Pool America.

Horseshoe news

Two teams met in the finals after posting 3-0 records in pool play during the April 12 horseshoe matches at the Anna Maria City Hall pits.

The team of Karl Thomas and Tim Sofran jumped out to an early lead and then held on for a 21-17 victory over Adin Shank and Bob Baker to win the day’s championship.

Four teams advanced to the knockout stage during April 15 action. The first semifinal match saw Dom Livedoti and Bob Lee cruise to a 21-7 victory over Bob Hawks and Bob Baker, while Sofran and Ron Hooper eliminated Bob Rowley and Billy Silver by a 22-10 score. The championship match was all Livedoti and Lee, as they demolished Sofran and Hooper 22-6 to win the day’s proceedings.

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

There is no charge to play and everyone is welcome.

Key Royale golf news

The highlight of the week at the Key Royale Club in Holmes Beach was the women’s annual Doe Day event April 11. Fifty-three women carried out a Kentucky Derby-theme with plenty of interesting hats on display on the links.

The game was a two-person scramble and the twosome of Sharon Tarras and Lori Waggoner combined on a 2-under-par 30 to take first place in Flight A. Pam Lowry and Dolly Darish took second place at 1-underpar 31.

Jana Samuels and Betsy Meyer took first place in Flight B with an even-par 32, one stroke ahead of second-place finishers Sue Pierce and Barb Rinckey.

Flight C saw Gloria LaDue and Beth Lindeman

Anna Maria Island Tides

Mason Moss scored the lone goal for Moss Builders.

The Key royale Club women golfers turn up April 11 for Doe Day at the club, showing off some classic Kentucky Derby-style hats. islander Photo: Courtesy KrC

Bob lee and Dom livedoti team up April 15 to win five consecutive games, including a 22-6 final victory at the Anna Maria City Hall horseshoe pits. islander Photo: Courtesy AMi Pitchers

Windy conditions, rough seas put damper on mid-April fishing

By Capt. Danny Stasny islander reporter

With strong winds and rough seas arriving around Anna Maria Island, many local anglers are staying off the water until conditions improve.

In the back country, the waters are mostly cloudy from being stirred up by the wind and chop on the water, which can make fishing challenging.

In areas that remain clear, species such as snook and redfish are being caught. Fishing sheltered areas out of the wind is essential to produce the best action.

Spotted seatrout are being caught on the deeper sheltered flats, and many are large, which we typically see from trout in April. The large spawning fish are a great opportunity to achieve the goal of catching your all-time biggest trout. Just remember to let them go, as they are key to the future of our fishery. And, with the slot being 15-19 inches, most of the larger fish will be saved.

April is known for ushering in an abundance of migratory species — kingfish, Spanish mackerel, cobia and an assortment of sharks.

Fishing along the beaches and out to around the 7-mile mark can be advantageous for anglers looking to hook into some strong-fighting fish, and there’s evidence that tarpon are schooling along the beaches. All the species mentioned can put up quite a battle when hooked on the proper tackle.

Anchoring and chumming with live baits is a great way to get in on the action. If you’re having trouble locating the fish, you can try slow-trolling live bait to cover more area and increase your chances of a hookup.

Running by Bean Point

A school of tarpon makes its way around the north end of Anna Maria island at Bean Point.

On my Just Reel charters, we’re catching many large spotted seatrout while working the deep grass flats. In fact, most trout are being released due to being over the maximum slot-size of 19 inches. You are allowed one trout over 19 inches on the boat, although I encourage anglers to release those fish so they can lay eggs and ensure we have a trout fishery in the future. Meanwhile, on shallower flats, I’m seeing some catches of snook and redfish. Both are being found around the mangrove-sheltered shorelines where oyster bars are present.

Capt. Warren Girle is finding nearshore action on a

up several kingfish on live shiners April 10 while fishing nearshore — and all fish were released. He was guided by Capt. Warren Girle.

take first place with a 3-over-par 35, one stroke better than second-place fi nishers Annette Hall and Judy Menchek.

The men played their regular modified-Stableford system match April 10 and Blake Ress earned clubhouse bragging rights for the day with a plus-4. One point back in second place was John Cassese and Bob Rowley, while Dave DuVernay, Dom Livedoti, Eric Lawson, Jack Lowry, Ken Nagengast and Tom Solo-

sky tied for third place at plus-2.

The week ended with a nine-hole scramble April 13. The team of Larry Pippel, Deb and Dave Richardson and Terry Tarras combined on a 5-under-par 27 to earn clubhouse bragging rights for the day. The team of Brian Comer, Bill Koche, Jerry Martinek and Kurt Snouffer matched the 4-under-par 28 carded by Ron Huibers, Dom Livedoti and Terry Schaefer to share second place.

variety of species. He reports fishing around nearshore structure is leading to Spanish mackerel, sharks and kingfish. Most kings are 15-20 pounds, with bigger fish mixed in. As for the sharks, blacktip and spinner sharks are common up to 5 feet.

Moving to the flats, Girle is finding action for clients on spotted seatrout in the deep grass. Snook and redfish are available on the shallower flats close to the mangrove shorelines.

Jim Malfese at the Rod & Reel Pier says he’s seeing the beginning of the mangrove snapper bite. Pier fishers using live shrimp as bait are catching snapper on casts under the pier. The bite is still in its early stages, so limits of snapper are not being caught, although Malfese anticipates the bite to increase in May.

Other species being caught at the R&R on live shrimp include snook, redfish and some random black drum. Macks also are being caught by anglers casting small jigs or silver spoons.

Capt. David White of Anna Maria Charters is finding kingfish around 7 miles offshore of Anna Maria Island. Slow-trolling live threadfin herring around bait schools is working well to get a bite. Most catches are in the 20-pound range.

Closer in along the beaches, White is finding Spanish mackerel to be accommodating to his clients. Anchoring and chumming is working best for these fish and bonito are mixed in with the bite.

In the backcountry, snook, reds and trout are tops for action on White’s boat. He’s putting anglers on the inshore trio thanks to live shiners on the hook. Send high-resolution photos and fishing reports to fish@islander.org.

Stasny

islander Photo: Jacob Merrifield

Bill Patterson of longboat Key hooked

By Lisa Neff

Happy ‘Earth Night’

We’ll celebrate about half of Earth Day at night. So happy Earth Night!

Maybe a sunset walk is in the plans for Saturday, April 22.

Or perhaps a picnic at dusk in a park.

I imagine some will stretch flat on their back under the waxing crescent moon to look for the Lyrid Meteor Shower while others will stroll the beach before dawn hoping an early-nesting loggerhead sea turtle will come ashore.

Neff

Will those walkers see dark skies or bright lights?

This time of year, we make a push on Anna Maria Island for “lights out” along the beaches — or at least for coastal properties to be outfitted with the right kind of lighting.

Sea turtle nesting season officially begins May 1 and with that date comes the enforcement of measures intended to safeguard nesting female loggerheads and the hatchlings that eventually emerge from the nests.

The southeastern United States hosts the world’s largest nesting aggregation of loggerhead turtles and AMI sees its share of activity.

To protect the turtles and their habitat, regulations require dark beaches clear of obstacles. So coastal inhabitants must remember to:

• Fill holes in the sand.

• Remove beach gear by dusk.

• Close curtains.

• Turn out lights along the shore or use turtlefriendly fi xtures and bulbs that won’t disorient the turtles, leading them away from the Gulf waters to

injury and possible death.

Yes, light pollution — and that’s what artificial light is called when it falls on the beach like litter — can kill.

Advocates for dark skies point to light pollution — mostly the use of artificial light — as negatively impacting wildlife and ecology, human health, energy security and climate change.

Consider these scientific findings and observations on the impact of light pollution, provided by the International Dark Sky Association:

Ecological impact

Scientists have studied at least 160 species for effects due to night light exposure and found harm to plants and animals, including:

• Artificial light can disrupt natural activity associated with the rising and setting of the sun, including finding food, reproduction, migration and communication;

• Artificial light exposure can weaken the immune systems of some organisms;

• Light at night can leave some species more vulnerable to predators and parasites;

• The impact of artificial light at night especially can be seen in aquatic environments, even to depths of hundreds of meters below the water’s surface;

• Light pollution every year causes the deaths of millions of birds and insects, including those that pollinate only under conditions of dim, natural light such as moonlight.

Earth Day 2023

The cost of light pollution can be measured in multiple ways, including in terms of dollars and energy use. islander image: U.S. Energy Department

Human health

Scientific evidence also establishes a link between light pollution and adverse human health consequences, including:

• Disrupting chemical signaling in the body;

• Causing epigenetic change;

• Causing shifts in sleep/wake cycles.

There are studies indicating artificial light at night exposure delays or prevents recovery from stroke, hardening of the arteries and inflammation, while other research looks at the relationships between nighttime light exposure and frequent disruption of the circadian rhythm to mental illness.

Climate change

Wasted outdoor light at night is wasted energy and wasted energy contributes to climate change.

The global cost to produce light at night is estimated at $50 billion while, in the United States, outdoor lighting consumes about 380 tWh per year — enough energy to power 35 million homes or power 49 million passenger vehicles for a year.

There’s an argument that night lights enhance public safety and in some locations that’s a good argument.

But the U.S. Department of Energy estimates only a small fraction of light — well under 1% — is even used by the human eye to interpret its surroundings.

What’s the value of lighted signs in a shopping plaza at 4 a.m.?

What eyes see the glow of a patio light at a beach cottage at 2:30 a.m.?

Hopefully, not nesting sea turtles.

Study: Pharmaceuticals found in Tampa Bay redfish

By lisa Neff islander Editor

Flushed pharmaceuticals are finding their way into the tissues of Florida redfish, including fish in Tampa Bay waters.

The Florida International University and Bonefi sh & Tarpon Trust conducted a yearlong study and, in mid-April, reported finding pharmaceutical contaminants in the blood and other tissues of redfish.

Earth Day 2023

Their research followed a 2022 study of bonefish in the Florida Keys that uncovered high levels of pharmaceutical contamination.

The latest research shows waterborne contaminants are a concern statewide, according to Jim McDuffie, president and CEO of BTT, which works to conserve bonefish, tarpon and other permit species in the region.

“The results underscore the urgent need to modernize Florida’s wastewater treatment systems,” McDuffie said in a news release. “Human-based contaminants like these pose a significant threat to Florida’s recreational fishery, which has an annual economic impact of $13.9 billion and directly supports more than 120,000 jobs.”

To carry out the research, scientists, water guides and anglers sampled redfish in nine estuaries: Tampa Bay, Pensacola, Apalachicola, Cedar Key, Charlotte

TideWatch

By lisa Neff

Red tide bloom remains

The red tide organism, Karenia brevis , was detected in Southwest Florida during the week ending April 16.

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission reported K. brevis was observed at very low to medium concentrations in Manatee County, background to high concentrations in Pinellas County and background to low concentrations in Sarasota County.

From Manatee County, there were reports of fish kills respiratory irritation related to red tide.

For more information, go online to myfwc.com/ research/redtide/statewide/.

1333 Perico Pointe Cir I $645,000

1250 Spoonbill Landings Cir I $629,000 512 Woodstork Circle I $535,900

1359 Perico Pointe Cir I $565,700

A yearlong study by

Harbor, Florida Bay, Northern Indian River Lagoon, St. Augustine and Jacksonville.

Pharmaceuticals were found in all of the estuaries sampled, with an average number of 2.1 drugs per fish and a maximum of five drugs. Only seven out of 113 sampled fish had zero drugs in their system.

And, on average, 25.7% of the fish exceeded a level of pharmaceuticals considered safe, which equates to one-third of the therapeutic levels in humans.

“These studies of bonefish and redfish are the first to document the concerning presence of pharmaceuticals in species that are important to Florida’s recreational fisheries,” said Jennifer Rehage, FIU professor and the study’s lead researcher.

Rehage added, “Given the impacts of many of these pharmaceuticals on other fish species and the types of pharmaceuticals found, we are concerned

about the role pharmaceuticals play in the health of our fisheries. We will continue this work to get more answers to these concerning questions.”

What drugs did researchers find? Cardiovascular medications, opioid pain relievers and psychoactive medications were most commonly detected.

The antiarrhythmic medication flecainide and the opioid pain reliever tramadol were detected in more than 50% of the redfish.

The antipsychotic medication flupentixol was detected above safe levels in one in five of the redfish.

Pharmaceutical contaminants have been shown to affect all aspects of the life of fish, including their feeding, activity, sociability and migratory behavior.

“The results of this study indicate that there are additional opportunities for improvement by retrofitting existing wastewater treatment plants with innovative technologies, like ozone treatment, to remove pharmaceuticals and requiring such technology on new wastewater facilities,” said BTT vice president Kellie Ralston.

Did you know?

About 5 billion prescriptions are filled annually in the United States, yet there are no environmental regulations for the production or disposal of pharmaceuticals.

Pharmaceutical contaminants most often originate from human wastewater and are not sufficiently removed by conventional water treatment.

The drugs remain active at low doses and exposure can affect all aspects of fish behavior, including negative consequences for their reproduction and survival.

You can read it all online at islander.org

If you have been dreaming of a boating lifestyle on Florida's Gulf Coast, this is your opportunity! This immaculate home in a premiere waterfront, maintenance free and gated community comes with its own 40 foot deeded boat slip in the protected basin only two blocks away Call me to learn more!

Florida international University and Bonefish & Tarpon Trust finds pharmaceutical contaminants in blood and other tissues of redfish, including in Tampa Bay. islander Photo: Courtesy Pat Ford/Bonefish & Tarpon Trust

ITEMS FOR SALE

QUilTiNG ArT BOOKS: 15 for $20. 941782-8381, afternoon.

YAKiMA rOOFTOP CAr carrier, white. Good condition! $600. Text, 941-920-2301.

CHilD’S HEAVY DUTY wood table and two chairs. Excellent condition. $85. Call 941779-1776.

COMPlETE VErTiCAl BliND system: Draw cord, turn and pull. 108 inches. Excellentplus condition. $89 or best offer. 941-7785542.

FREEBIE ITEMS FOR SALE

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

Sandy’s Lawn Service Inc.

Paradise Improvements 941.792.5600

RDI CONSTRUCTION INC.

AdoptA-Pet

Oh, those eyes!

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

SPONSOrED BY

ANSWERS TO APRIL 19 PUZZLE

ANNOUNCEMENTS

A NEW CrEATiVE company is coming soon, SJ&A Originals! For more info, email sjaoriginals@gmail.com

GARAGE SALES

GArAGE SAlE: 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Friday and Saturday, April 21-22. Tools, pictures, paintings, cars, yard tools, ladders, generator, 8400 watts, miscellaneous. 307 61st St., Holmes Beach.

PETS

HElP rESCUED PETS! Volunteer, foster, computer help needed! Moonracer Animal rescue. Email: moonraceranimalrescue@ gmail.com.

TRANSPORTATION

GOlF CArT rENTAlS: Fun for residents and tourists! www.GolfCartrentalAMi.com.

TWO 2022 150cc Wolf scooters. less than 200 miles on each. $1,600 each. 219-8510024.

E-Z-GO GOlF CArT for sale. $3,800 with lester charger. Bright yellow. 248-7652702.

BOATS & BOATING

HAVE A BOAT and wanna catch more fish, better bait or learn the water? 50-year local fisherman, your boat, my knowledge. Captain Chris, 941-896-2915.

SUNCOAST BOTTOM PAiNTiNG: Professional bottom painting. Mobile. Call 941704-9382.

HELP WANTED

HOUSEKEEPErS/ClEANErS NEEDED for island resort. Hours are 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and can vary depending on occupancy. Must be available on weekends as needed. Experience a plus! 941-778-7153.

HEriTAGE PArK NUrSiNG Center is now hiring! Open positions CNA, Nurse, rN, wound. Come tour the facility and fill out an application. Call for more information, 941792-8480.

ClEANErS NEEDED ON the island on Saturdays. Great team, good payment. Please, call 941-243-3097.

NOW HiriNG HANDYMAN: Full-time professional services. $15 an hour and up, based on experience. Call JayPros, 941962-2874.

rEPOrTEr WANTED: Full- to part-time. Print media, newspaper experience required. Apply via email with letter of interest to news@islander.org.

KIDS FOR HIRE

NEED AN ADUlT night out? Call Maty’s Babysitting Services. i’m 16, love kids and have lots of experience. references upon request. 618-977-9630.

KiDS FOr HirE ads are FrEE for up to three weeks for island youths under 16 looking for work. Ads must be placed in person at The islander office, 315 58th St. Suite J, Holmes Beach.

MOrE BANG FOr YOUr BUCK? it’s an old saying, but it’s still true when it comes to The islander. look for more online at islander. org.

SERVICES

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

ClEANiNG: VACATiON, CONSTrUCTiON, residential, commercial and windows. licensed and insured. 941-756-4570.

PrESSUrE WASHiNG, PAVEr sealing, driveway, roof, fence, pool area. Also, window cleaning. licensed and insured. 941-5653931.

BiCYClE rEPAirS: Just4Fun at 5358 Gulf Drive can do most any bicycle repair at a reasonable cost. Pick-up and delivery available. 941-896-7884.

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

APi’S DrYWAll rEPAir: i look forward to servicing your drywall repair needs. Call 941524-8067 to schedule an appointment.

PrOFESSiONAl WiNDOW ClEANiNG: residential, commercial, free estimates. “We want to earn your business!” 207-8526163.

AirPOrT riDES: SArASOTA, St. Pete, Tampa. Call/text, Vita, 941-376-7555.

PArADiSE PET CArE: Pet specialist. Walking, sitting, vet visits. Training and love. Jason, 908-720-1688.

ArE YOU CONCErNED about the security of your island home while you’re away? i make weekly visits to check AC and any issues that may occur. Call or text Scott, 941-685-8999.

HANGiN’ ON AMi: We hang artwork, mirrors, TVs, etc. Furniture assembly. local references available. 941-720-3126.

iSlAND liGHTSCAPES & SECUriTY: landscape lighting and home security installation. Quality service by island residents. 941-7203126.

PrOFESSiONAl CAr SErViCE to all local airports. 24/7, 365. Eamonn, 941-4477737.

BUSiNESS-TO-BUSiNESS JD’s Window Cleaning looking for storefront jobs in Holmes Beach. i make dirty windows sparkling clean. 941-920-3840.

BEACH SErViCE air conditioning, heat, refrigeration. Commercial and residential service, repair and/or replacement. Serving Manatee County and the island since 1987. Call Bill Eller, 941-795-7411. CAC184228.

ClEAN TECH MOBilE Detailing. At your location. Cars, boats, rVs. Call or text Billie for an appointment. 941-592-3482.

LAWN & GARDEN

CONNiE’S lANDSCAPiNG iNC. residential and commercial. Full-service lawn maintenance, landscaping, cleanups, hauling and more! insured. 941-778-5294.

BA r NES l AWN AND l andscape ll C. Design and installation, lawn and landscape services, tree trimming, mulch, rock and shell. 941-705-1444. Jr98@barneslawnandlandscape.com.

COlliNS lANDSCAPE liGHTiNG: Outdoor lighting, landscaping, irrigation services and maintenance. 941-279-9947. MJC24373@ gmail.com.

SEArAY SPriNKlEr SErViCES. repairs, additions, drip, sprinkler head/timer adjustments. 941-920-0775.

SHE ll DE li VE r ED AND spread. Hauling all kinds of gravel, mulch, topsoil with free estimates. Call larry at 941-795-7775, “shell phone” 941-720-0770.

MP lAWN MAiNTENANCE now accepting new clients. Call Dante, 941-730-9199. mp@ mplawnmaintenance.com.

HOME IMPROVEMENT

VAN-GO PAiNTiNG residential/commercial, interior/exterior, pressure cleaning, wallpaper. island references. Bill, 941-795-5100. www.vangopainting.net.

TilE -TilE -TilE. All variations of ceramic tile supplied and installed. Quality workmanship, prompt, reliable, many island references. Call Neil, 941-726-3077.

G ri FF i N’S HOME i MP r OVEMENTS i nc. Handyman, fine woodwork, countertops, cabinets and wood flooring. i nsured and licensed. 941-722-8792.

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

HANDYMAN AND PA i NT i NG. No job too small. Most jobs just right. Call r ichard Kloss. 941-204-1162.

SCrEENiNG SErViCES: replace your old or ripped window, door or porch screens. Many screen types available. retired veteran here to serve our community! Free estimates, call lane, 941-705-5293.

CAll HYDrO ClEAN. Full-service pressure washing, sealing. Pavers, travertine and natural stone. Window washing too, up to three stories. Call Jacob, 941-920-2094.

SA r ASOTA i NTE ri O r PA i NT i NG: We specialize in high-end properties. We love to paint! Owner operated. Fully insured/ licensed. Call or text Don, 941-900-9398. instagram: SarasotainteriorPainting.

RENTALS

ANNA MA ri A GU l F beachfront vacation rentals. One- two- and three-bedroom units, all beachfront. www.amiparadise.com. 941778-3143.

MONTH lY SEASONA l r ENTA l : 55-plus community. Beach across street. 2Br/2BA. $6,500/month. 941-226-4008. A must see!

RENTALS Continued

PE ri CO i S l AND PAT i O home for rent. 3Br/2BA. two-car garage, fully renovated. 30-day minimum. Privacy fence/gate, two miles to AM i . Available July 1- December 25, 2023. #bluerockingchair instagram/fb. 859-771-6423.

CONDO FOr rENT: June through October. 3Br/2BA. Perico Bay Club. Two-month minimum. Community pool and hot tub. One mile from Anna Maria island. Call Dave at 856495-7200 for details.

SEASONA l r ENTA l : AVA il AB l E AprilDecember. Across from bay, 2 miles from beaches, fully furnished, laundry, all utilities. 941-773-1552.

FU r N i SHED ANNUA l r ENTA l Anna Maria island 2Br/1.5BA. Over 50 community. $3,200 per month includes garbage, water, electricity, WiFi, cable. No smoking, no pets. Contact Tim, 507-382-8880.

ANNA MA ri A 3B r /1BA historic cottage, half-block to Gulf beach and one block to Pine Avenue shopping and restaurants. Available April and May, $2,800/month. 941778-8456. terryaposporos@gmail.com

ANNUAl 2Br/1BA iN Bradenton Beach. 150 yards to Gulf. $2,950/month includes utilities and appliances. No smoking or pets. First/ last/security. 508-496-8480. williamshomes@ yahoo.com

ANNUAl rENTAl: $2,200/month. 1Br/1BA north Holmes Beach. Available June 1. renovated and beautifully furnished. Great for part-time resident. Small, fenced yard, steps to beach. Must have good credit. 305-7938980.

TrOP iCA l PA rAD iSE ANNA Maria island waterfront home. 2Br/2BA, two-car garage. Completely remodeled. Great pool with spillover spa. Dock with boat lift. See parrots and dolphins from your yard. Peaceful beautiful neighborhood. Walk to beaches and golf course. Pet friendly. Non-smoking. Annual rental. Call Debbie, owner, 941-704-7336. See ad in Zillow and rent.com. $6,500 per month, negotiable. Available May 1.

NiCE COZY HOlMES Beach 3Br/2BA fully furnished. Available by week or month May 15-Sept. 15. Five-minute walk to the beach. No pool. 231-670-6697.

55-P l US PA r K 1B r /1BA. Beach across the street, furnished, pool, library, parking, annual rental. $1,850 month, includes all utilities except electricity. Available mid-to-late May after vetting. No pets. Text, 831-212-2606.

ANNUA l r ENTA l WEST Bradenton 3Br/2BA, near country club! $2,800 negotiable. Text, 941-920-2301.

FlEXiBlE lEASES, Off-season rentals. Bayshore condo 2Br/1BA, $1,250 per month. Wildwood Springs, 2B r /2BA. $1,800 per month. Also available January, February, March 2024 at $5,000 per month. Book now. real Estate Mart, 941-356-1456.

HO l MES BEACH E l EVATED 2B r /2BA duplex garage screen lanai. Nice quiet area. $2,400/month, annual. 970-331-1042.

lOOKiNG FOr AN EArlY BirD? You can read Wednesday’s classifieds on Tuesday at islander.org. And it’s FrEE!

REAL ESTATE

W i NN i E MCHA l E, r EA lTO r , 941-5046146. rosebay international realty inc. You need an aggressive and experienced realtor in today’s market! Selling island homes, Sarasota and Bradenton areas. Multi-milliondollar producer! “Selling Homes - Making Dreams Come True.”

WATErFrONT 2Br/2BA CONDO: For sale by owner. 248-765-2702 or Zillow.

C l ASS i C HOME: F i XE r -upper on private golf course. Half acre-plus, panoramic views, minutes to beaches. $719,000 or best offer. real Estate Mart, 941-356-1456.

The islander website offers essential news for residents and visitors. Check it out: islander.org.

Minor league players take the field at lECOM Park in Bradenton in 2018. Margaritaville Night — presented by the Compass Hotel on Perico island — will be Saturday, April 22, at the park. islander File

Apps and academics

The Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce and the Anna Maria Island Historical Society will cohost a business mixer and scholarship awards 5-7 p.m. Thursday, April 27.

The event will be at the historical society grounds and museum, 402 Pine Ave., Anna Maria.

The cost to attend is $5 for members and $10 for nonmembers.

Attendees can expect appetizers as they circulate and applause as the historical society celebrates academic achievement with higher education awards.

For more information, call the chamber at 941778-1541.

Catch a game

The Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce is organizing a night out at LECOM Park in Bradenton, when the Bradenton Marauders take on the Daytona Tortugas.

The Marauders are a single-A affiliate of the Pittsburgh Pirates and a series of special events coincide with ball games at the park, 1611 Ninth

St. W.

Saturday, April 22, is Margaritaville Night at the park — presented by the Compass Hotel by Margaritaville — and the chamber has a block of tickets.

The gates will open at 5:30 p.m. The game will begin at 6:30 p.m.

For more, call the chamber at 941-778-1541.

Nominate now

The Manatee Chamber of Commerce is collecting nominations for its annual Small Business of the Year awards.

Applications — found at manateechamber.com — are due by Friday, April 21.

Some criteria:

To be eligible, a for-profit business must have operated for at least three years under one ownership, employ no more than 80 people and operate as a fulltime business conducting a substantial amount of busi-

ness in the county.

An eligible nonprofit must be registered as a 501(c)3 or 501(c)6 organization in the state for at least three years, employ no more than 80 people and conduct a substantial amount of work in the county.

Past winners, as well as chamber employees and officers, are not eligible for the competition.

The chamber will hold its 43rd Annual Small Business of the Year Awards in June.

For more information, call the chamber at 941748-3411.

BizCal By

Saturday, April 22

6:30 p.m.

lisa Neff

THIS WEEK

Once Upon A Beach

Club, Bradenton.

Thinking

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

“When it Comes to Buying or Selling Your Home, CALL ME FIRST!

Photo: lisa Neff

Staff reports

Arrivals, departures, records

The Sarasota Bradenton International Airport saw a record 514,889 passengers in March.

In March 2022, 442,846 passengers passed through SRQ — the closest airport to Anna Maria Island.

The passenger count was not just a record for March but for any month in SRQ’s history.

Also, the first three months of 2023 saw an 18.5% increase in passenger traffic over the same period in 2022.

Passenger counts likely will continue to increase, as SRQ is adding fl ights and expanding amenities, including a five-gate terminal expansion.

“It has been our desire to provide travelers with multiple airlines and destinations to choose from for both leisure and business travel,” SRQ president and CEO Rick Piccolo said in a news release. “With 11 airlines serving 55 nonstop destinations, we are excited to see both visitors and locals embrace the many air service choices now being offered from SRQ.”

PropertyWatch

Carol Bernard

Island real estate sales

848 North Shore Drive, Anna Maria, a 1,992 sq ft

3BR/2BA home on a 9,043 sq ft lot built in 2001 sold 3/22/2023 by Caldwell to Geaglone for $1,685,000, list price $1,995,000.

240 Gladiolus St., Anna Maria, a 1,124 sq ft

2BR/1BA home on a 10,607 sq ft lot built in 1959 sold

3/24/2023 by 240 Gladiolus LLC to Cramling Trust for $2,000,000, list price $2,000,000.

524 Blue Heron Drive, Anna Maria, a 2,430 sq ft

4BR/5BA pool home on a 12,362 sq ft lot built in 2022 sold 3/3/2023 by Sandpiper Inn LLC to Clemens LLC for $3,000,000, list price $3,495,000.

117 Seventh St. N., #5, Bradenton Beach, a 594 sq ft 1BR/1BA Bay View Terrace condo built in 1973 sold 3/17/2023 by Mastrion to Sears for $400,000, list price $415,000.

2312 Ave. C, #5, Bradenton Beach a 651 sq ft

2BR/1BA LAY-Z LIV-N condo built in 1979 sold 3/31/2023 by Amey Trust to R&M Beach Rentals for $520,000, list price $599,000.

1801 Gulf Drive, #176, Bradenton Beach, a 1,080 sq ft 2BR/2BA Runaway Bay condo built in 1978 sold 3/22/2023 for Shaw Trust to Nevitt-Motsick LLC for $630,000, list price $630,000.

1801 Gulf Drive, #188, Bradenton Beach, a 1,080 sq ft 2BR/2BA Runaway Bay condo built in 1978 sold 3/24/2023 by Reyes to Engleking for $690,000, list

price $725,000.

1441 Gulf Drive, #1441, Bradenton Beach, a 1,536 sq ft 3BR/3BA Bermuda Bay condo built in 1999 sold 3/13/2023 by CNAK Consulting LLC to Marcis Trust for $1,365,000, list price $1,450,000.

415 63rd St., Holmes Beach, a 1,112 sq ft 2BR/2BA Seaside Gardens villa built in 1972 sold 3/15/2023 by Edwards Trust to AMI Swamp LLC for $600,000, list price $599,900

5300 Gulf Drive, #608, Holmes Beach, a 1,169 sq ft 2BR/2BA Martinique North condo built in 1971 sold 3/15/2023 by Wolf to Venema for $950,000, list price $999,000.

6700 Gulf Drive, #9, Holmes Beach, a 1,510 sq ft 3BR/2BA Gulf Place condo built in 1976 sold 3/24/2023 by Coffman to Peddy for $1,260,000, list price $1,175,000.

110 49th St., Holmes Beach, a 2,464 sq ft 3BR/3BA home built on a 9,701 sq ft lot built in 1967 sold 3/27/2023 by Simek to Carkner Development LLC for $1,925,000, list price $2,000,000.

208 Harbor Lane, Holmes Beach, a 1,812 sq ft 4BR/3BA pool home on a 7,553 sq ft lot built in 2004 sold 3/17/2023 by 208 N Harbor LLC to Diver for $1,975,000, list price $2,100,000.

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

MLB player offers home for sale

Arizona Diamondbacks reliever Mark Melancon is selling his waterfront home on Key royale in Holmes Beach with views of Bimini Bay from every room. Melancon, a four-time MlB All-Star pitcher, started the 2023 season on the 60-day injured list. He began his career in 2009 with the New York Yankees and was the closer for several teams, including the Pittsburgh Pirates. He started a company here that markets and installs artificial turf, Diamond Turf. The home is listed for $10.95 million.

Monica

Island WATERFRONT living under $500,000. Beautifully remodeled PERICO BAY CLUB. Easy access to Anna Maria or mainland!

Gorgeous three bedroom, 2 bath historic beauty located just a half mile to the beach in the oldest, active fishing village in Florida. This 2,130 sq. ft. home is located on a spacious lot and offers a finished third-story room that may serve as a fourth bedroom, office or studio, stunning heart

pine flooring in entrance, stairwell and hallways, high ceilings, a lushly landscaped yard, private rear deck, two-car carport, wooden blinds throughout, updated plumbing and electric. Have Anna Maria Island sale prices gotten too high? This is a rare opportunity to own a piece of Florida history within walking distance to everything amazing our area has to offer at a more attainable price point! Asking $895,000.

*Currently not offered in MLS*

Mike Norman Realty

Newcomer Coldwell Banker Realtor call/text 941-545-4980 monicanewcomer@aol.com

MIKE NORMAN REALTY EST. 1978