The Islander Newspaper E-Edition: Wednesday, Oct. 09, 2024

AM digs into debris removal,

By ryan Paice islander reporter

restoration

debris removal was a big part of the Hurricane Helene recovery for the city of anna maria.

mayor dan murphy said Oct. 1 that the municipality had 16 trucks on rotation to collect and remove curbside debris until everything was gone, regardless of how many passes it takes.

“It’s not just a one-time brush. We’re going to hang with it until we get it all,” he said. “We’re attacking it very vigorously.”

The city was ahead of the curve with some recovery processes, such as restoring utilities and clearing its roadways following the storm.

While Gulf drive was inundated with sand, it was removed within days after the municipality hired three road-clearing companies that put front-loaders and plows to work on the streets, according to murphy.

The city also brought in two streetsweepers to help clean the roadways.

“We’re getting that all cleared as quickly as we can,” murphy said. “We need to keep the pressure on.”

He said the city had taken a similar route for debris removal and had three companies

capt. Louis Hinds of the fWc is among the volunteers who assisted in cleanup efforts at Bradenton Beach’s Wildlife inc. animal rescue after Hurricane Helene. islander Photo: courtesy gail Straight

By robert Anderson islander reporter

Wildlife Inc., a nonprofit wildlife rehabilitation center at 2207 avenue B, Bradenton Beach, was left reeling after Hurricane Helene brought in a flood of water and sand.

After Helene: AMI unites for recovery

BB launches titanic recovery effort

By robert Anderson islander reporter

Bradenton Beach was still working through the aftermath of Hurricane Helene the week of Sept. 30 — and will be for some time.

Though the storm made landfall late Sept. 26 near perry, Bradenton Beach was hit hard and deemed a “catastrophic area.” a state emergency response team determined 90%-95% of the city was destroyed in extensive flooding — the result of storm surge.

city officials, including emergency manager and police chief John cosby, mayor John chappie and city attorney ricinda perry, were coordinating recovery efforts. cosby, a 30-year veteran of the city emergency management program, was leading the charge.

“We’ve been very fortunate. cooperation has been immense,” said cosby. “We have not been told ‘no’ on anything we have requested or asked for.”

chappie emphasized the resiliency of the community in an Oct. 2 interview with The Islander.

“We go hit pretty bad,” chappie said. “But we will get through it. We will be back PLeASe, See BrD BeAcH, PAge 17

faces recovery challenges

before making landfall near perry as a category 4 hurricane. On amI, it brought storm surge and sand intrusion, causing damage to the rescue facility.

HB applies brakes to vacation rentals

By ryan Paice islander reporter

Holmes Beach city officials hope to ensure there are not too many people roaming the neighborhoods as the municipality continues to recover from Hurricane Helene. city commissioners voted 4-0 Oct. 2 to enact a 45-day moratorium on the use and occupancy of vacation rentals within municipal limits.

commissioner carol Soustek was absent with excuse.

The moratorium immediately went into effect following the vote, banning vacation rentals until Nov. 16.

The moratorium can be terminated at any point before the end of the 45-day timeline and city officials have expressed hope to do so.

On the other hand, extending the moratorium would require the municipality to issue public notice, hold two hearings and secure a vote of the commission.

The adopted ordinance also establishes the city’s abeyance of the review, issuance and renewal of municipal vacation rental certificates during the moratorium.

The ban does not impact anyone who may be displaced due to the hurricane.

Motivation

The city’s recovery management organization initially recommended the enactment of a 60-day moratorium.

The rmO is comprised of mayor Judy Titsworth, public works superintendent Sage Kamiya, city attorney Erica augello, as well as other department heads, and is responsible for implementing recovery plans during states of emergency.

rmO members told commissioners a vacation rental moratorium would help limit the number of people in the city and allow the municipality to efficiently and safely recover from the storm.

much of the island remained in disrepair following Hurricane Helene and did not resemble the tourist destination it has been for years.

The island’s beaches remained closed to the public as of Oct. 4 due to hazardous materials littered throughout the shores and in the water due to the storm.

The storm passed about 150 miles from the island in the Gulf of mexico Sept. 26

Gail and Ed Straight, who have run Wildlife Inc. rescue 54 years from their home, weathered the surge and now face recovery.

The city remained under a 7 p.m.-7 a.m. daily curfew and only residents with re-entry tags were allowed to enter the city during those hours.

Only residents, business owners, employ-

rescue cONtiNued frOm PAge 1

“It (the surge) was going so fast, you couldn’t do anything,” Gail Straight said in an Oct. 1 interview with The Islander. “I mean the refrigerators, the freezers, the washer, the dryer, all the furniture, everything is gone.”

She estimated the surge hit and inundated the house in less than 15 minutes.

“In 10 minutes, it was coming through the floor,” she said.

She said the main building took on close to 3 feet of water, which destroyed equipment and food supplies vital for animal care.

She said most of the animals at the rescue were moved off the island before the storm.

“I kept all my owls and stuff here. We had a frigate and another cage with raccoons,” Straight said.

“The big tortoises that everybody loves, they got moved by my grandson,” she said, referring to Bradenton Beach police Officer devon Straight. “He was on duty. He came and checked on them and the water was coming up too high. So we moved them into one of the higher cages.”

Throughout the night, the Straights worked to protect the animals at the rescue. She said while the shelter did have some fatalities, most were due to stress.

The morning after the storm, they found the shelter’s two vehicles, used in daily operations, were destroyed.

“The cars were flooded and covered in sand,” Straight said. “all the stuff that we use for shows is in those cars, which are also … molded.”

“We have some electric but we do not have electric in the whole house,” she said. “The animal room has air and light. I’ve got light in the kitchen but that’s it and everything else is just not working.”

Krista carpenter, a volunteer and spokesperson for the center, who also weathered the storm from her residence in Bradenton Beach, spoke to The Islander Sept. 30.

c arpenter was walking to the shelter from her home to volunteer while the Florida department of

Transportation worked to clear roadways.

She said the loss of equipment at the rescue was substantial.

“We lost two incubators. That’s what we use to keep the babies warm,” carpenter said. “We lost some heating pads, our big freezer that holds the food for the birds of prey, a standup refrigerator for vegetables for foraging animals and another standup fridge.”

However, without vehicles, the team is unable to carry out rescues, transport animals to events and replenish food supplies.

“We’ve had to cancel (events) and that financially is going to crush us,” carpenter said.

While Wildlife Inc. is in repair, people who find injured wildlife should reach out to Save Our Seabirds, 1708 Ken Thompson parkway, Sarasota, or the Wildlife center of Southwest Florida, 925 N. Jackson, Venice.

Save Our Seabirds can be contacted 10 a.m.-4 p.m. at 941-388-3010.

The Wildlife center of Southwest Florida can be contacted 8 a.m.-6 p.m. at 941-484-9657.

Wildlife Inc., which operates primarily through donations and volunteer support, now faces a daunting path to recovery. The center is working on removing sand from the building, drying out equipment and replacing essential supplies.

m any in the community rallied around the center.

The center needs financial donations, volunteers for cleanup efforts and replacement vehicles. additional supplies like animal food, medical equipment and cleaning products also are needed.

Straight said the situation was not conducive to a happy birthday for her, which was coming up Oct. 6.

“I’ll be 71 years old, so uh … Happy birthday to me,” she quipped. “I’m not a big birthday person anyway. So that’s a good thing. But this is awful.”

despite the challenges, both Straight and carpenter remained hopeful.

“I won’t let it beat me,” Straight said. “I’m not going to feel sorry for myself. There’s a whole island

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Q&A 100924

By Lisa Neff

The Islander poll

Last week’s question

Have you ever evacuated ahead of a storm?

40%. No.

23%. Once.

24%. a few times.

12%. many times.

This week’s question

My main concern for AMI after Helene is …

A. Whether businesses can survive.

B. repairing property.

c. State of the beaches.

d all of the above.

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

To suggest a question, email lisa@islander.org.

that’s been destroyed.”

She also said people calling into the rescue to help might not get through and should try to converse with the rescue through Facebook. “I can’t answer the phone. I don’t have a phone at the moment.”

How can you help Wildlife Inc?

Wildlife Inc. accepts donations through its website and at its Bradenton Beach location via Facebook appointments.

Volunteers interested in helping with cleanup efforts are encouraged to reach out directly.

The group is also accepting donations through a GoFundme account:

https://www.gofundme.com/f/hurricane-relief-forwildlife-inc.

Milestones

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

Beach Sounds

Rod & Reel owner talks pier damages, recovery

By ryan Paice islander reporter

a timeline for reopening the rod & reel pier remained uncertain after Hurricane Helene destroyed its boardwalk.

But owner Oliver “Oli” lemke was optimistic and determined to get the pier up and running again.

lemke, a German brewer and restaurateur, told The Islander Oct. 2 that the pier sustained extensive damages during the storm but it could have been worse.

Hurricane Helene tore through the Gulf of mexico and past anna maria Island Sept. 26 as a category 4 storm.

The hurricane brought 5.5-7 feet of storm surge to manatee county — a record for the area — that combined with a 1.85-foot-high tide around midnight to flood much of the island and left a trail of destruction in its wake.

While Bradenton Beach on the island’s southern end got hit the hardest, the north side of the island was not spared from devastation.

Following the storm, one of the most striking photos of the island’s damages posted to social media displayed what remained of the rod & reel pier’s boardwalk.

The pier was built in 1947 and is located at 875 N. Shore drive, anna maria. Its T-end features a twostory recently renovated restaurant building.

lemke purchased the pier last November from fellow German businessman mario Schoenfelder.

less than a full year later, the pier’s boardwalk needed to be almost completely rebuilt.

lemke, who visited the island after the storm, said the walkway decking was almost completely destroyed but a lower deck survived the storm in good shape and the walkway pilings appeared to be OK.

“It looks bad,” lemke said. “But … it could have been a lot worse. So we consider ourselves very lucky.”

Out at the T-end building, which must be accessed by boat in lieu of the walkway, the second floor was unscathed and the first floor only took on a “little bit” of water.

lemke said he was seeking estimates for how much time and money it will take to restore the pier, so there was no timeline for reopening.

He said he hoped to reopen the pier as soon as possible so his employees would not remain out of work for too long.

“They’re very eager to find out when we’re going to reopen,” lemke said.

In the meantime, lemke also expressed optimism for the city’s recovery as a whole.

“We can consider ourselves lucky on anna maria because … I don’t think it’s going to take that long to get it up and going again,” he said. “We’ll get it done.”

Hurricane milton was on course early Oct. 7 to make landfall on Florida’s west coast, producing winds, rain and possibly record storm surge.

The storm was expected to intensify in the Gulf of mexico into a major hurricane.

While tracks varied late Oct. 6, a consensus path put milton on a path for Tampa Bay.

Florida Gov. ron deSantis, in a news conference over the weekend, said, “I don’t think there’s any scenario where we don’t have major impacts at this point.”

The threat prompted manatee county on Oct. 6 to announce evacuations beginning at 2 p.m. monday, Oct. 7, for Zone a, which includes all of anna maria Island, as well as Zone B.

The manatee county School district canceled classes at least Oct. 7-Oct. 9.

The effects of the hurricane were expected to be felt on the coast early Oct. 8, with landfall expected Oct. 9.

States of emergency were declared for milton even as the recovery continued in manatee county from two other storms — debby and Helene.

For current storm information from manatee county, go online to mymanatee.org/storm.

— Lisa Neff

the boardwalk of the rod & reel Pier in Anna maria was found Sept. 27 destroyed following Hurricane Helene. islander Photo: courtesy emma Bouchard

Longboat Key looks to recovery after Hurricane Helene

By robert Anderson islander reporter

recovery efforts in longboat Key were underway as the town looked to alleviate the effects of Hurricane Helene the week beginning Sept. 30.

The category 4 storm made landfall late Sept. 26 near perry, with winds reaching 145 mph and storm surges as high as 10 feet.

although the eye of the storm passed some 150 miles of longboat Key, it left behind widespread devastation on much of the island and in surrounding coastal communities.

On longboat, the storm surge inundated roads, covering them with beach sand and making them impassable, while some homes and vehicles were damaged or destroyed. Electricity across the island was knocked out, leaving many residents who stayed through an evacuation order in the dark for days.

In the post-storm assessment, town officials confirmed there were no fatalities or injuries.

In an Oct. 3 email to The Islander, longboat Key Fire chief paul dezzi said more than $148 million in residential damage had been recorded on longboat Key. The north end, from the 5000 block of Gulfside road North to the bridge, was the hardest hit. despite the scale of the destruction, recovery efforts were moving swiftly, with debris removal and power restoration.

dezzi said Florida power and light continued to work on longboat Key to activate the remaining 10% of power that was still off.

Other utility companies, such as TEcO and comcast, were working to restore services.

mail service was resumed by Oct. 1 and a small number of businesses had reopened, including a publix, cVS pharmacy and a handful of restaurants, providing essential services to the recovering community.

To support residents in need, the town set up a point of distribution at the publix, 525 Bay Isles parkway, where residents could get water, ice, mrEs and cleaning supplies.

additionally, four comfort stations were established, offering people a place to cool off, access to water and light snacks. The stations are at:

• paradise center, 546 Bay Isles road, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

• all angels Episcopal church, 563 Bay Isles road, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

• Temple Beth Israel, 567 Bay Isles road, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

• christ church, 6400 Gulf of mexico drive, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

dezzi said fire department personnel also were distributing water and ice across longboat.

according to the town’s website, as of Oct. 3, a curfew remained in effect — midnight-6 a.m. — and entry to longboat was only from the south end at New pass Bridge.

The town was allowing construction 7 a.m.-7 p.m. daily through Oct. 31.

A beachfront home on gulfside road, Longboat Key, is destroyed by Helene’s surge of water.

Election 2024

Ballots in the mail but …

The manatee county Supervisor of Elections Offi ce issued a statement after Hurricane Helene’s strike Sept. 26 that it was “actively taking steps to ensure the November election proceeds smoothly and securely, despite any disruptions caused by the storm.”

The statement also said, “Our priority is to ensure that every lawful voter has the opportunity to participate, even in challenging circumstances.”

people who requested ballots by mail were due to receive them in late September or early October — and those whose mail delivery was only disrupted a few days have ballots in hand or may already have sent them back.

Others still were waiting the week of Oct. 1.

The office said it was working closely with the postal service to ensure timely delivery and return of ballots.

“If you have experienced a change of address due to the storm’s impact, please contact our office as soon as possible to update your information to ensure your ballot reaches you without delay.

“You may also request or drop off your ballot at our office.”

On the election calendar

• monday, Oct. 21-Saturday, Nov. 2, 8:30 a.m.6:30 p.m., early voting, various locations.

• Thursday, Oct. 24, deadline to request mail ballot.

• Tuesday, Nov. 5, 7 a.m.-7 p.m., general election polling.

For more info, go online to votemanatee.com.

— Lisa Neff

Meetings

By Lisa Neff

ANNA MARIA CITY

Oct. 10, 2 p.m., commission. TENTATIVE

10005 Gulf Drive, 941-708-6130, cityofannamaria.com.

BRADENTON BEACH

Oct. 17, 9:30 a.m., CRA.

Oct. 17, noon, commission. 107 Gulf Drive N., 941-778-1005.

WEST MANATEE FIRE RESCUE

Oct. 15, 6 p.m., commission.

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

MANATEE COUNTY

Oct. 15, 9 a.m., commission. OF INTEREST

Oct. 14, Columbus Day, government offices are closed.

Plan now for the next holiday!

Is your business ready to make the most of a new season?

Island power reactivates,

By ryan Paice islander reporter

West manatee Fire rescue’s job was not finished with the passing of Hurricane Helene.

chief Ben rigney told The Islander Oct. 4 that the district received multiple calls regarding smoking power outlets and structure fires as power was reactivated on anna maria Island.

Helene was the second-deadliest hurricane to strike the mainland united States in the last 55 years, with more than 220 people dead as of Oct. 4.

Only Hurricane Katrina, which resulted in 1,392 total fatalities, had taken more lives.

While there were no deaths in the WmFr district during the storm, there were fires, including a Sept. 26 structure fire at 212 76th St., Holmes Beach, that led to the total loss of the property as roads flooded with 3 feet of water prevented firefighters from reaching the location.

The island reopened the following weekend and recovery and restoration efforts began immediately.

That included the reactivation of power across the island and, by Oct. 4, Juno Beach-based Florida power & light had restored power to anna maria, Holmes Beach and much of Bradenton Beach.

However, that process was not without issues.

rigney said the record-high storm surge for the area rose past many properties’ lowest electrical outlets.

When power to those outlets was restored, many began smoking and became fire hazards, resulting in several calls regarding structure fires and fire alarms.

district staff responded to the calls by securing power at each location and advising them to contact a certified electrician.

a second major structure fire broke out Sept. 29 at 208 Oak ave., anna maria, which resulted in the total loss of the residence.

While the fire occurred as efforts to restore island electricity were in the early stages, its cause remained undetermined, according to WmFr lt. Inspector Keith miller.

miller told The Islander Oct. 4 that district staff attempted to investigate the property but the site was found too dangerous to dig.

another concern became the matter of waterlogged batteries for golf carts, low-speed vehicles and electric vehicles.

The water level during the storm rose into and over the hoods of many vehicles on the island, leaving many with lithium-ion batteries with potential water damage.

prolonged exposure to water can damage lithiumion batteries and lead to fiery short circuits or chemical reactions.

at one anna maria property, the owner called WmFr for help removing an electric vehicle from a

erupt, batteries explode

606 S.

garage due to concerns about its battery bursting into flames indoors.

Training chief mark Tuttle led the crew that secured the vehicle without issue.

manatee county was still determining a location for the disposal of damaged batteries as of Oct. 4 and was working with the Florida department of Environmental protection to figure out how to store the hazardous waste.

For right now, rigney recommended people remove water-damaged batteries and place them outside, away from buildings and flammable materials.

The WmFr fire commission will meet at 6 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 15, at the district’s administrative headquarters, 701 63rd St. W., Bradenton.

directions to attend via Zoom can be found on the district’s website, wmfr.org.

Improve your odds of success with Islander newspaper readers looking to shop and dine, seeking indoor and outdoor fun, and a place to stay for their next visit. Call or text 941-778-7978. Check

Explore the entire archive of The Islander dating to November 1992 in the uofF Florida digital newspaper collection at ufdc. ufl.edu.

Wmfr helps remove a tesla with a potentially water-damaged battery Oct. 3 from a garage at

Bay Blvd., Anna maria. islander Photo: courtesy Wmfr

Opinion

Milton brings a new twist

It’s not as if we haven’t already been hammered by Helene.

I’m sure everyone is exhausted from moving, packing and storing items at home in safe — drY — places and tossing out what can’t be cleaned and saved from their homes.

Now, we’re facing a storm on an unprecedented track, straight across the Gulf of mexico with the center of the cone of improbability a direct bull’s-eye for Tampa Bay.

There’s always been a story circulating around hurricanes that anna maria Island has the protection of a Native american tribe and no storm will come here — thanks to the blessing of the tribe.

Well, I believe in that about as much as I believe 2 plus 2 is 5.

BuT! But I don’t want to discount it or spoil the spirit’s blessing if there’s even the slimmest of hope that it’s true. No one I know has ever known the origin.

It will be historic, of course. maybe even epic. If the storm barreling at us as I write dodges us.

The weather predictors are saying it will develop into a major storm, maybe cat 3. and it’s going to be pretty damning — considering all the damage from Helene and the cleanup still ongoing.

I can’t wish the storm to go north or south, but I’m wishing it would weaken.

as I sit writing my thoughts, I’m also concerned about friends and family, neighbors and acquaintances all across the island community, the newspaper staff and associates, all the advertisers and customers — and all the people we serve in the community.

I know people are counting on us to get the news to them, whether they are here, weathering out the worst ever weather on anna maria Island, or from afar. and we plan to do just that.

We won’t let you down.

But, please, bear in mind, while I often think of the delivery people for the newspaper as super heroes, there’s only so much they can do in these circumstances to get the paper to you.

There will be limited home delivery. The night drivers will seek out businesses that are open by day, especially city halls, publix, Walgreens and cVS.

There will be storm news on our website and Facebook as it comes to us and we hope you can stay in touch.

Stay strong. amIstrong.

Our thoughts are with you.

— Bonner Joy, news@islander.org

OpinionYour

Centered on support

The center of anna maria Island remains focused on supporting our community during this challenging time.

We are offering essential resources to help meet the immediate needs of our neighbors and remain committed to providing relief.

We are open to the community 9 a.m.-6 p.m. monday-Sunday and are offering the following services:

Skimming online

Website: islander.org

Facebook: islandernewspaper

Instagram: @theislanderami

News alerts: register at islander.org

E-edition: Subscribe at islander.org

Connections, AMI & beyond

Anna Maria: mayor dan murphy, 941-7086130, ammayor@cityofannamaria.com.

OCT. 9, 2024 • Vol. 32, No. 51

▼ 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

masha dolgoff, masha@islander.org

Jack elka, jack@jackelka.com

robyn murrell, robyn@islander.org

ryan Paice, ryan@islander.org

▼ Contributors

Karen riley-Love

Jacob merrifield

capt. danny Stasny, fish@islander.org

▼ Advertising Sales

debbie tucker, debbie@islander.org

▼ Webmaster Wayne Ansell

▼ Office Manager, Lisa Williams

info@, accounting@, classifieds@, subscriptions@islander.org

▼ Distribution

urbane Bouchet

ross roberts

Judy Loden Wasco

• phone charging stations: charge your devices to stay connected.

• Bathroom access: Our facilities are available for your convenience.

All others: news@islander.org

• Supplies: Essential items will be provided based on availability.

• cooling station: Take a break in our air-conditioned space.

• Fitness area: Stay active and healthy in our fitness center, open for those who want to work out.

In addition, we are coordinating volunteers to assist those who need help at their homes or businesses. Those needing assistance can call the center at 941-778-1908.

Volunteers can arrive at the center any time between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m.

While we are working to resume regular programs and services as soon as possible, we currently do not have a set timeline.

We will continue to share updates as we assess community needs and determine the best ways to serve.

For more information or to volunteer, please visit our website or follow us on social media. We are here to help our community through these challenging times.

The Center of Anna Maria Island staff

Bradenton Beach : mayor John chappie, 941-778-1005, mayor@cityofbradentonbeach. com.

Holmes Beach: mayor Judy Titsworth, 941708-5800, hbmayor@holmesbeachfl.org.

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

Florida Senate : Jim Boyd, 941-742-6445, boyd.jim.web@flsenate.gov.

Florida House : William cloud

“Will” robinson Jr., 941-708-4968, will.robinson@myfloridahouse.gov.

Florida Governor: ron deSantis, 850-7179337, flgov.com.

U.S. House: Vern Buchanan, 941- 951-6643, rep.vern.buchanan@mail.house.gov.

U.S. Senate: marco rubio, 305-596-4224; rick Scott, 786-501-7141.

President: Joe Biden, 202-456-1111, whitehouse.gov/contact.

Letters to the editor

The Islander welcomes your opinion letters please, submit your opinion with name, address and contact phone number to news@islander.org. Only your name and city are published. letters may be edited for space and style.

Looking back

After the 1921 storm

An archival photo shows the cortez village waterfront with smashed fishing and boat houses after the 1921 hurricane. the storm made landfall near tarpon Springs Oct. 25, 1921. the storm was the first major hurricane to make landfall in the tampa Bay area since the hurricane of 1848 and the last asof Oct. 7.

After Alma the aftermath in Bradenton Beach of Hurricane Alma in 1966. Alma made landfall near Apalachee Bay with winds of 90 mph June 9, 1966 — the earliest u.S. hurricane landfall since a hurricane in may 1825. islander Photos: manatee county Public Library System archives

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10, 20, 30 years ago

From the Oct. 6, 1994, issue

• Trolley Systems of america Inc. announced an island trolley could begin rolling by January 1995. The trolley was to be a partnership with the business community and funded with advertising.

• The concession operator at manatee public Beach in Holmes Beach was seeking a special exception from the city to serve beer and wine with meals.

From the Oct. 6, 2004, issue

• a Holmes Beach resident filed a complaint with the city of Holmes Beach, saying the municipal holiday decorations were christian-themed and did not reflect the diversity of the community.

• The Florida department of Environmental protection deemed anna maria’s beaches along North Shore drive critically eroded, clearing the way for renourishment.

• The city of Bradenton Beach was hoping to reopen a shuttered restaurant at the Historic Bridge Street pier before the winter tourist season but still needed to find a concessionaire.

• about 100 people helped clean up anna maria Island and cortez during the annual coastal cleanup, a popular volunteer event that continues to take place each October.

From the Oct. 8, 2014, issue

• a flurry of subpoenas, discovery responses and a motion to compel were filed in advance of a scheduled October murder trial for William J. cumber, accused of killing Holmes Beach motel owner Sabine musil-Buehler.

— Lisa Neff

Cortez goes from underwater to underway, recovery begins

By robert Anderson islander reporter

people in the village of cortez were reeling in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene.

The category 4 storm made landfall to the north near perry Sept. 26, bringing winds there up to 145 mph and a storm surge as high as 10 feet.

The storm passed about 150 miles off cortez but the village was still severely impacted, inundated with water, as well as hit with Helene’s rains and winds. r oads became impassable, power lines were downed and structures were flooded or destroyed as storm surge engulfed the low-lying community.

capt. Katie Tupin, who runs captain Katie Scarlett Boat Tours from a dock in cortez, faced a nightmare scenario Sept. 26 as floodwaters surged into her home, forcing her and her family out into the night.

“Thursday around 5:45 p.m. everything was fine. We’re sitting down on the couch watching TV. It was blowing 60-plus mph but there was no flooding,” Tupin told The Islander Oct. 3.

She said her husband, Jeff Smith, looked out the window and noticed water had suddenly submerged their driveway.

“I got up to look and the water starts entering really, really fast. Within 15 minutes it was inside our home. Eventually it got to 2-3 feet in some areas,” Tupin said.

“We didn’t know how high it was going to go. We were in complete shock. This has never happened here before,” she added.

Tupin made multiple trips through waist-deep water to rescue pets and belongings, struggling to save three cats using a cooler and kennel to carry them.

They waded through flooded streets toward cortez road, which Tupin said had turned into a river. at one point, she felt something brush against her in the water and realized she had run into a shark, pushed inland by the surge.

She said the night sky was lighted by structure

fires.

The family reached higher ground, finding refuge at the home of a friend, cameron parker, where they stayed overnight.

as the waters receded the next day, they returned to assess the damage, along with many neighbors.

In addition to their flooded homes, many cortezians returned to find vehicles destroyed and that much of their neighborhood had been submerged.

In the days after, recovery efforts began but challenges remained in the first full week after Helene ended.

Tupin said looting became a concern, prompting people to ask for regular patrols by the manatee county Sheriff’s Office.

Other help arrived in various forms, including, according to Smith, county trucks distributing meals ready-to-eat, water and tarps.

residents awaited removal of debris from their

Volunteers Oct. 3 pause for a photo during a cleanup effort at the cortez Village Historical Society, 11655 cortez road W., cortez. islander

Photo: courtesy cindy rogers

streets after having cleaned out their damaged furniture, appliances, drywall and more.

East in the village, the cortez Historic Village cultural center, a museum that showcases the history of the community, also suffered damage.

a wooden shed that housed books, supplies and tools, was destroyed by fire.

cindy rogers, the center director, said a cleanup occurred Oct. 3, with volunteers from the Salvation army assisting.

rogers also said the mcr Health mobile clinic was expected to bring in a van, offering medical services, including prescription refills and mental health support.

m eanwhile, as of Oct. 4, some businesses had reopened, including Swordfish Grill & Tiki, 4628 119th St. W., Tide Tables, 12507 c ortez r oad W., c ortez c afe, 12108 c ortez r oad W., and Slickers Eatery, 12012 cortez road W.

compiled by Lisa Neff,

calendar@islander.org

HURRICANE HELENE IMPACT

Due to continuing recovery efforts following Hurricane Helene, some ongoing events might be canceled, relocated or online.

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Wednesday, Oct. 9

6:30 p.m. — Island Time Book Club meeting, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341. CANCELED DUE TO HELENE

Friday, Oct. 11

5:30 p.m. — Music in the Park concert, Bradenton Riverwalk Pavilion at Rossi Park, 452 Third Ave. W., Bradenton. Information: 941-301-8445. ONGOING ON AMI

• Through October, Artists’ Guild Gallery window show, 5414 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6694.

• Third Thursdays, 4 p.m., Sundown Get Down, Bridge Street, Bradenton Beach. Information: 941-448-7808. OCT. 17 CANCELED DUE TO HELENE

• Second Mondays, 2 p.m., Center of Anna Maria Island Adult Book Club, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria. Information: 941-7781908. CANCELED DUE TO HELENE

ONGOING OFF AMI

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

• Second and fourth Saturdays, 2 p.m., Music on the Porch jam session, presented by the Florida Maritime Museum and Cortez Cultural Center, 4415 119th St. W., Cortez. Information: floridamaritimemuseum.org. TENTATIVE DUE TO HELENE

• Through October, Island Gallery and Studios mixed-media drawings by Larry Paul, 456 Old Main St., Bradenton. Information: 941-778-6648.

• Through Oct. 20, “Reimagining Nature: Dali’s Floral Fantasies,” the Dali Museum, 1 Dali Boulevard St., St. Petersburg. Fee applies. Information: 727-823-3767, thedali.org.

• Through Jan. 5, “Life in One Cubic Foot,” the Bishop, the Bishop Museum, 201 10th St. W., Bradenton. Fee applies. Information: 941-746-4131.

• Through Feb. 9, 2025, “Enduring Light: Photographs by Roy DeCarava and Danny Lyon,” the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, 5401 Bay Shore Road, Sarasota. Fee applies except Mondays. Information: 941-359-5700.

• Through Feb. 25, 2025, “I want you to know my story” photography by Jess T. Dugan, the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, 5401 Bay Shore Road, Sarasota. Fee applies except Mondays.

SAVE THE DATES

Oct. 18, Realize Bradenton’s Music in the Park concert, Bradenton.

Oct. 19, Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce’s Bayfest, Anna Maria. CANCELED DUE TO HELENE

Oct. 25, Realize Bradenton’s Music in the Park, Bradenton. MARKETS & SALES

ONGOING ON AMI

• Tuesdays through June 8, 8 a.m.-2:30 p.m., Farmers Market, City Pier Park, Pine Avenue and Bay Boulevard. Information: 7086130. OCTOBER CANCELED DUE TO HELENE

ONGOING OFF AMI

• Saturdays, Through May 31, Bradenton Market, Old Main Street, Bradenton. Information: 941-301-8445.

KIDS & FAMILY

Thursday, Oct. 10

4 p.m. — Fire safety for kids, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Info: 941-778-6341. CANCELED DUE TO HELENE

Friday, Oct. 11

10 a.m. — 40 Carrots, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Info: 941-778-6341. CANCELED DUE TO HELENE

Tuesday, Oct. 15

10 a.m. — Storytime, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Info: 941-778-6341. TENTATIVE DUE TO HELENE OFF AMI

Friday, Oct. 11

5-8 p.m. — Goblin Gathering, G.T. Bray Park, 5502 33rd Ave. Drive W., Bradenton. Information: 941-748-4501. ONGOING OFF AMI

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

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

• Second Saturdays, Quest for Kids, the Bishop Museum, 201 10th St. W., Bradenton. Fee applies. Information: 941-746-4131. SAVE THE DATES

Oct. 31, 4-6:30 p.m., Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce Trail of Treats, island business districts. Information: 941-778-1541. CANCELED DUE TO HELENE

Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341. CANCELED DUE TO HELENE

ONGOING ON AMI

• Saturdays, 8:30 a.m., Kiwanis Club of Anna Maria Island meetings, Bradenton Beach City Hall, 107 Gulf Drive N. Information: 941-778-1383. CANCELED DUE TO HELENE

SAVE THE DATES

Oct. 15, 6 p.m., Keep Manatee Beautiful Farm to Table Dinner, Bradenton.

Oct. 27, 2-4 p.m., Island Players’ volunteer open house, Anna Maria. TENTATIVE DUE TO HELENE

SPORTS & FITNESS

ONGOING ON AMI

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

• Mondays, 10 a.m., morning yoga, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341. CANCELED DUE TO HELENE

• Most Tuesdays, 11:30 a.m., mahjong club, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341. CANCELED DUE TO HELENE

OUTDOORS & NATURE

ON AMI

Saturday, Oct. 12

8 a.m. — Manatee Audubon bird outing, Bayfront Park, Anna Maria. Information: 408-623-4686. CANCELED DUE TO HELENE

ONGOING OFF AMI

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

SAVE THE DATES

Nov. 2, Cortez Cultural Center planting day, Cortez. CALENDAR NOTES

KEEP THE DATES

Through Oct. 31, sea turtle nesting season. Lights out! Through Nov. 30, Atlantic hurricane season. Be prepared! Monday, Oct. 14, Columbus Day.

Monday, Oct. 14, Indigenous Peoples Day. Wednesday, Oct. 16, National Bosses Day. Thursday, Oct. 24, United Nations Day.

Thursday, Oct. 31, Halloween.

Sunday, Nov. 3, daylight savings time ends. Tuesday, Nov. 5, Election Day.

Thursday, Oct. 10

1 p.m. — Sunshine Stitchers, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive,

Island happenings

Winning watercolor

cortez artist Anne Abgott, who shows her work at the Artists’ guild gallery in Holmes Beach, received the Jim carpenter memorial award at the 53rd annual florida Watercolor Show in Largo for her painting, “Life in Blue 2.” the show continues through Oct 13 at creative Pinellas, 12211 Walsingham road. islander courtesy Photo

Goblin Gathering at G.T. Bray

preparations are underway for the Goblin Gathering — manatee county’s premier Halloween experience.

The 22nd annual event will be 5-8 p.m. Friday, Oct. 11, in the wooded area of G.T. Bray park, 5502 33rd ave. drive W., Bradenton. local businesses and community partners will pass out treats to participants.

This year’s gathering also will feature bounce houses, face painting, costume contests, a petting zoo and magic demonstrations.

a costume contest will begin at 7 p.m., with registration opening at 5 p.m.

For more information, call 941-748- 4501.

Fall concert series continues

realize Bradenton’s music in the park concert series will continue Friday, Oct. 11, and through the month.

concerts will be at 5:30 p.m. at rossi park, 452 Third ave. W., Bradenton.

The lineup includes:

• aBBa Nova performing a tribute to the pop group Oct. 11;

• Eric Von performing country Oct. 18;

• Jah movement performing reggae Oct. 25. people are encouraged to bring blankets and chairs.

realize Bradenton is organizing food vendors for the shows.

For more information, call realize Bradenton at 941-301-8445.

Palma Sola plant sale planned

The palma Sola Botanical park plans to hold its Fall plants & more Sale 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 20.

The event will feature vendors selling native and exotic plants, wood, pottery, textile and jewelry art. also, shoppers will find lunch items and treats for sale, as well as live musical performances.

The park is at 9800 17th ave. NW, Bradenton. For more information, call the park at 941-7612866.

Chamber cancels Bayfest

The anna maria Island chamber of commerce has canceled Bayfest, the big block party held annually on anna maria’s pine avenue.

The event was scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 19, and was canceled following Hurricane Helene. For more information, contact the chamber at 941778-1541.

Audubon cancels AMI outing

manatee audubon canceled a planned birding event at anna maria’s Bayfront park that was set for Saturday, Oct. 12, due to the impact of Hurricane Helene on the island.

The group will meet at Gettel Toyota of lakewood, 5959 E. State road 64, Bradenton, at 6:30 p.m. on the third Thursday of each month. The first meeting will be Oct. 17.

also, the group plans about two dozen field trips to local parks, as well as three member-based field trips and classes for 2024-25.

To contact manatee audubon, call 941-729-2222 or email manateeaudubon@gmail.com.

October

Sundown canceled

The Sundown Get down event series, a family-friendly street party every third Thursday on Bradenton Beach’s Bridge Street, will not take place in October.

The event was canceled due to the impact of Hurricane Helene.

Other event dates are Nov. 21 and dec. 19.

For more information, go online to sundowngetdown.com or call Jill mcGarry at 941.448.7808.

Island Players theater temporarily closed

The Island players group, which has been preparing for its second performance of the 2024-25 season in November, announced Oct. 3 the theater is temporarily closed due to Hurricane Helene.

The statement from the box office read: Fortunately, our historic building itself survived and is intact but will require repairs.

The devastation on the island is immense and will take time to return to some sort of normalcy.

We will keep our patrons informed via email periodically of our progress as to when we may return.

If you had tickets for the performances that were cancelled, we will contact you by phone when we can resume working.

The theater is owned by the city of anna maria and located next to city hall at pine avenue and Gulf drive.

For more information, go online to www.theislandplayers.org.

Island Library reopens

The Island library, 5701 marina drive, Holmes Beach, reopened Oct. 3 following cleanup after Hurricane Helene.

The library, at that time, was open for patron services but not offering programming.

a notice from manatee county, which operates the branch, encouraged people to visit, use the free WiFi service and also a comfort station outfitted with showers and restrooms.

as of Islander press time, it was not known how long the comfort station in the library parking lot would remain.

For more info, call the library at 941-778-6441.

Center starts fiscal 2024-25 with $27K deficit

By ryan Paice islander reporter

The center of anna maria Island dug itself a hole to start fiscal 2024-25.

But the hole is not as deep as it usually is for the nonprofit.

The community center was $27,012 in the red through July, the fi rst month of its new fi scal year, according to a report it provided.

The deficit can be attributed to losses in both operations and fundraising.

despite raising $43,292 in program income — only recording a $568 loss for adult sports programming — $61,641 of general and administrative expenses result in a $18,350 loss from operations.

For fundraising, the nonprofit only raised $8,868 in revenue over July, $4,702 less than it incurred in fundraising costs.

Those losses added up to a $23,052 deficit, further worsened by $3,960 in capital expenses.

However, the $27,012 total deficit for July pales in comparison to other deficits the community center has built over the month in recent years.

last year, the nonprofit finished the month $55,093 in the red — more than twice the center’s current deficit.

The year before, the nonprofit finished July with a $76,716.46 deficit.

This year’s $27,012 deficit is also $17,060 less than the $44,073 loss the center budgeted for the month.

“Overall, the center did exceptionally well,” executive director christopher culhane wrote in a Sept. 18 email. “We exceeded expectations through increased program revenue over the last year, while cutting direct program expenses.”

July’s success — or lack of substantial deficit — might hint toward an overall better start than the prior fiscal year, which began with three consecutive negative months.

The center did not record a positive financial month until October, at which point it had already accumulated a $164,755.25 deficit.

Gathering

By Lisa Neff

Church bulletins after Helene

Island churches in the week after Hurricane Helene’s destruction worked to open for worship — either online, at temporary locations or in their own sanctuaries.

roser memorial community church, 512 pine ave., anna maria, welcomed people to worship Oct. 6, announcing the return to service in a notice that referred to a “miracle.”

“like so many of us on anna maria Island, we at roser church are working hard to recover from the blows dealt by Hurricane Helene. However, we also experienced a miracle in the midst of the storm. Thankfully, our sanctuary remained mostly dry and unharmed.”

Worshippers sang, prayed and heard a scriptural message.

In Bradenton Beach, Harvey memorial community church moved its worship to the Waterway condominiums in Bradenton so repairs could begin.

“as you know, there was extreme devastation throughout the South, including right here in our community of anna maria Island,” the church posted on social media. “Our little church, while still standing, did experience flooding and other minor damage. … There is currently no timeline as to when we will worship in our beautiful little sanctuary again.”

crosspointe Fellowship in Holmes Beach, after Helene, quickly opened not just for prayer but also to serve as a hub for relief efforts, working with charities and community groups to provide meals and volunteers.

meanwhile, at Gloria dei lutheran church in Holmes Beach, there was “extensive damage through the entire building” and recovery was expected to take a long time.

a quote for just remediation was $200,000.

a notice said, “The church does not have flood insurance. due to the dramatic increase in premium the congregation voted several years ago to discontinue the coverage. We are investigating any assistance for resources available.”

due to disruptions in mail delivery, the church was asking people to send donations to 8646 46th ave. circle W, Bradenton, Fl 34210.

Gloria dei’s Oct. 6 service was canceled. The church said, “We will work to get us back to worshiping as quickly as possible.”

at the Episcopal church of the annunciation in Holmes Beach, an initial assessment, posted to Facebook, found sand buildup around the church, halfinch of water intrusion in the parish hall, offices and nave but no broken glass and structural integrity not impacted.

St. Bernard catholic church, also in Holmes Beach, resumed its mass schedules by Sept. 30 and reopened the parish office with a caution for people driving on island roads during cleanup efforts.

The church, on Facebook, announced, “We are pleased to report that our church has weathered the storm! praise God!”

Gathering is the religion section. please, send announcements, calendar listings and photos to lisa Neff at lisa@islander.org.

Tidings

Jackson glasscock helps with post-Helene clean up at roser memorial community church, 512 Pine. Ave., Anna maria, which was offering worship services by Oct. 6. islander Photo: courtesy emily glasscock

compiled by Lisa Neff

HURRICANE HELENE IMPACT

Due to continuing recovery efforts following Hurricane Helene, some ongoing events might be canceled, relocated or moved online.

ONGOING ON AMI

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

Worship: Sundays, 9 a.m.

Ongoing: Wednesdays, 7 a.m., men’s Bible meeting; Wednesdays, 6:45 p.m., Wednesday Night Blasts.

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

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

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

Worship: Sundays, 9:30 a.m., followed by coffee and fellowship. CANCELED DUE TO HELENE

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

Worship: Sundays, 9:15 a.m. MOVED DUE TO HELENE

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

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

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

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

Ongoing: Monday-Friday, 8 a.m., rosary; Wednesdays, 7:30 a.m.; Saturdays, 3 p.m., confession.

ONGOING 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.

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

Worship: Sundays, 10 a.m.

Ongoing: Wednesdays, 10 a.m., Pastor’s Bible Study; Thursdays, Shifting Sands group.

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

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

GET LISTED, CHANGE LISTINGS

Send listings to calendar@islander.org.

Post Helene: A guide to FEMA disaster assistance

FEma disaster assistance can provide funds to homeowners and renters for serious needs, basic home repair, rental of temporary housing and other uninsured expenses resulting from Hurricane Helene.

FEma money can help with repairing or replacing a damaged home, as well as mitigate hazards while FEma displacement assistance helps people who can’t return to their home because it was damaged by Hurricane Helene.

and after receiving displacement assistance for immediate housing needs, applicants may be eligible for rental assistance.

displacement assistance, a one-time payment, can be used to stay in a hotel, with family and friends or for other options while you look for temporary housing.

Those who still need help after spending displacement assistance can ask for rental assistance, which can help pay for somewhere to live while repairs are being made or permanent housing is identified.

The initial award may cover up to two months’ rent.

Other needs

people also can apply for FEma money to pay for serious needs, including water, food, first aid, prescriptions, infant formula, breastfeeding supplies, diapers, consumable medical supplies, durable medical equipment, personal hygiene items and fuel for transportation.

a claim also can be fi led to help you repair or replace personal items, including appliances, room furnishings, tools, items required for school or work, including self-employment.

FEma funding can help cover medical expenses because the disaster caused, as well as replace medical equipment and prescriptions damaged in the disaster. money also can be requested to pay for purchases made for the recovery effort, to replace or repair dam-

Sunday Ser vice 10 : 00 AM Dr. Julia Wharff Piermont, Pastor

Hurricane recovery help

manatee county people impacted by Hurricane Helene should complete an “unmet needs survey,” which can be found at https://extremeweather-dashboard-manateegis.hub.arcgis.com.

The site, manatee county’s “Severe Weather Information center,” also contains information about post-storm safety tips, road closures, power outages, recovery work, donation sites, aid distribution sites and more.

For FEma assistance, download the FEma app for smartphones to begin, go to disasterassistance.gov or call 800-621-3362.

For flood recovery information, go to mymanatee.org/floodimpact.

For business recovery information, go to sba. gov/disaster.

For cleanup help, go to crisiscleanup.org.

For unmet storm-related needs, contact the Hope Florida initiative, activate Hope, at 850300-HOpE.

— Lisa Neff

aged vehicles and to move or store property.

Needed to apply

To apply for FEma aid, have ready a phone number, an address for impacted property, an address where staying, a social security number, a general list of damage and losses, banking information for direct deposit and a policy number and agent for personal insurance.

Save the contact

For FEma help, go online to disasterassistance. gov, use the FEma app, visit a recovery center or call 800-621-3362.

AME relocates, no return in sight

By robyn murrell islander reporter

anna maria Elementary students and staff temporarily relocated to Stewart Elementary, 7905 15th ave. NW, Bradenton, after Hurricane Helene.

On Sept. 30, 171 amE students attended their first class at Stewart, where they were greeted with welcoming signs in the hallways and on classroom doors.

Stewart’s parents provided a welcoming breakfast

Milestones

Yes, they do!

Nick deau and Amanda Jaegers of chicago were engaged to be married Sept. 15 on the Anna maria city Pier. friends of the Aldersons, who own tyler’s ice cream in cortez and on Longboat Key, deau and Jaegers visit often and love the area. She said “yes,” and an ice cream celebration followed. islander courtesy Photos Vail Wagner of Holmes Beach and rob robak of Bradenton are engaged. Wagner attended Anna maria elementary, King middle and manatee High schools. robak also graduated from manatee High. the couple plans to wed in spring 2026.

to ease the transition.

By Oct. 2, each grade level was settled into newly designated learning environments at Stewart.

The school district has supported the transition in several ways. For example, the Early learning department supplied essential furnishings and classroom materials for the voluntary prekindergarten education program.

also, the district’s print shop reproduced textbooks to provide amE students with individual copies, district communications specialist melissa parker wrote in an email to The Islander Oct. 3.

“Students have experienced a positive impact, reconnecting with friends from previous educational or extracurricular activities,” parker wrote.

although there were no confirmed external damages to amE due to Helene, the district deployed specialized teams to assess the internal infrastructure.

AME Calendar

• Monday, Oct. 14, record day, no school.

• Friday, Oct. 25-26, Fall Fest bake sale. TENTATIVE

• Saturday, Oct. 26, 4-8 p.m., PTO Fall Fest, Center of Anna Maria Island, Anna Maria. TENTATIVE

AME is at 4700 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, but classes are taking place at Stewart Elementary, 7905 15th Ave. NW, Bradenton.

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

“at present, the timeline for resuming normal operations at anna maria Elementary remains undetermined,” parker wrote.

So now, amE students and staff will continue lasses at Stewart.

For more information, contact the district at 941708-8770 or go online to www.manateeschools.net.

Preschool moves to community center post-Helene

The School of constructive play classrooms sustained damage from Hurricane Helene, leading to the temporary closure of its campus at Gloria dei lutheran church.

Kelly Stewart, the preschool’s owner, told The Islander by phone Oct. 3 that the school found temporary accommodations at the center of anna maria Island, 407 magnolia ave., anna maria.

Stewart said that the Florida department of children and Families issued a temporary license to operate at the center and students were allowed to begin attending classes Oct. 7.

chris culhane, the center’s executive director, offered to house 35-40 preschoolers until the school campus is repaired. The center also hosts an afterschool program.

“In all of our classrooms, we had about a foot of water inside,” said Stewart. “Our playground equip-

ment was lost, thrown around and ripped out of the ground by the storm.”

a GoFundme campaign organized by carson lancaster, a Holmes Beach resident whose child attends the school, was launched to help with repairs and other expenses.

as of Oct. 3, the fundraiser had collected $23,713 at gofund.me/6852530e.

“This is a place of safety, a home away from home, and a family outside of family for many of our island kids,” lancaster wrote in the GoFundme description.

“Not only have many of these children lost a majority of their belongings at home, but they have now lost their fun place.”

Stewart said she anticipated hosting classes at the center for a month.

For more information, contact the center at 941778-1908.

Anna maria elementary principal Katie fradley, left, and Stewart elementary principal Joe Hougland stand Sept. 30 beside a marquee reading, “Welcome Anna maria Students and families.” islander Photo: courtesy melissa Parker

August tourist tax dollars top 2023 collection

By Lisa Neff islander editor

Tourists continued to shell out for manatee county rentals in august.

The county collected $1,800,682 from its monthly bed tax, a 5% levy on overnight accommodations of six months or less.

The figure represents an 11.91% increase from the august 2023 tourist tax revenue.

Heading into the final month of its fiscal year, the county had earned $29,534,749 and was expected to pass the $30 million mark for fiscal 2023-24, which ended Sept. 30.

Fiscal 2024-25 began with a difficult outlook as Hurricane Helene caused record storm surge locally, destroyed and damaged property, shuttered businesses and brought tourism to a halt on amI.

Tourist tax revenues for October will be reported in early december and revenues for September will be reported in early November.

Historically, unincorporated manatee county and Holmes Beach have jockeyed for the top collection spot and that held in august, when unincorporated manatee accommodations yielded $655,538 or 36.4% of the earnings pie, while Holmes Beach accommodations generated $535,591 in tax dollars or 30%.

anna maria sleepovers produced $274,004 or 15.22%, and Bradenton Beach accommodations generated $76,689 or 4.26%.

Bradenton generated $140,670 or 7.81%, longboat Key produced $105,084 or 5.84% and palmetto

frOm PAge 1

working to collect curbside waste, including Wellington-based Jet Hauling, Texas-based Waste management and Bradenton-based Woodruff & Sons.

To organize the companies’ combined efforts, the city divided debris removal operations in halves, with pine avenue the dividing line.

Woodruff was operating on the north side of pine avenue, while Jet Hauling and Waste management was handling the southern half.

They began Sept. 30 with household debris. When household debris is gone, the contractors will begin removing yard and landscaping debris.

murphy said that while pine avenue’s curbs were reloaded with debris shortly after the contractors cleared it, the city was not “daunted.”

The city will receive reimbursement funding from the Federal Emergency management agency for debris removal efforts, according to murphy.

HOLMes BeAcH cONtiNued frOm PAge 1 ees and contractors are allowed access to the island during the day.

AMI TOURISM:

Endless Season

Tourist tax collections:

August 2020: $1,185,575

August 2021: $1,448,333

August 2022: $1,547,956

August 2023: $1,609,103

August 2024: $1,800,682

Source: manatee county tax collector

held down the reporting at $13,244 or 0.74%.

The revenues do not go directly to the municipalities where the accommodations generating the taxes are located but instead to a pot that gets portioned out by the county under the advice of the tourist development council.

per state law, the tax dollars must be used to drive tourism-bolstering initiatives and have funded beach renourishment projects on the island, as well as the construction of the new anna maria city pier and the Bradenton to amI ferry service.

The Bradenton area convention and Visitors Bureau; the Bradenton area convention center; realize Bradenton, a nonprofi t dedicated to developing downtown Bradenton, and the pittsburgh pirates also receive bed tax dollars.

However, more funding may be necessary. murphy said Oct. 3 that “all” of the city’s stormwater infiltration infrastructure — huge lengths of rights of way with French drain trenches — were “gone.”

He added that staff was compiling a plan that would be an improvement over the previous trenches.

While the cost to replace the trenches — which cost millions of dollars over several years — may be significant, murphy said the city had enough reserve funds to cover what is needed.

“We’re OK,” murphy said. “We’ll be back stronger than ever.”

The city also began conducting post-storm damage assessments Oct. 2.

The city commission will meet next at 2 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 10, at city hall, 10005 Gulf drive. directions to attend via Zoom can be found on the city’s website, cityofannamaria.com.

While utilities were restored, many businesses remained closed as they underwent repairs and roadside rights of way were lined with debris that will take weeks to remove. damage assessments had only just begun.

Kamiya said the moratorium was necessary for health, public safety and welfare as it would help limit the number of motorists on city roadways and pedestrians on sidewalks.

He said many roadways and sidewalks remain covered in sand, which also limited crosswalk visibility, while at least eight roadways required significant repairs due to Helene.

chad minor, the city’s director of development and a member of the rmO, said the municipality had begun going door to door to complete damage assessments and found 95% of ground-level homes had sustained damage.

He added that 15 properties in the city were “completely gone” and uninhabitable following the storm. minor said city staff was tasked with an “incredible” amount of work, but the moratorium would give them time to complete their work.

police chief Bill Tokajer, another rmO member, said the city was unsafe and should not be opened back up to vacationers until it was cleaned up and secured.

Tokajer added that residents were “begging” for a vacation rental moratorium and that any ban could be lifted when the city is once again deemed to be safe.

Comments

Nine people — largely vacation rental owners and managers — spoke during public comment to ask city commissioners to enact a shorter ban.

many acknowledged the rmO’s safety concerns but said a 60-day moratorium could scare off visitors and spell doom for small businesses that might not be able to endure a two-month stretch without revenue.

John munn, chief operating officer of Bradentonbased prime Vacations, voiced concern with the 60-day proposed moratorium and said restoration efforts were picking up speed.

He said that, despite the “shocking” state of the island, prime had around 150 homes that were ready to be rented.

another prime employee, Eric pullen, said that about 25% of the business’s 400-plus vacation rental units on the island did not sustain damage and that almost 70% would be ready to rent in the near future.

larry chatt, owner of Holmes Beach-based Island real Estate, expressed doubt that allowing vacation rentals would result in an influx of vacationers to the island since it is in the midst of the offseason.

He said he had been through more than 100 of Island real Estate’s rental properties and, while some would take months to restore, others just needed the pool cleaned.

chatt and many of the other commenters asked the city to lower the moratorium’s duration to 30 days instead of 60.

Discussion

commissioner pat morton moved to adopt a 60-day vacation rental moratorium.

commissioner Greg Kerchner seconded the motion but said he would rather vote for a 30- or 45-day moratorium.

commissioner dan diggins said he wanted to allow the market to dictate who was on the island.

“I don’t want to put people out of work or out of business,” diggins said. “I think it’s the wrong thing to do.”

The audience applauded his comments.

commission chair Terry Schaefer reiterated the rmO members’ safety concerns and said the commission would be remiss not to address them.

a vote on morton’s motion for a 60-day moratorium failed on a 2-2 vote, with diggins and Kerchner voting “no.”

Following the failed motion, Kerchner moved to enact a 45-day vacation rental moratorium.

diggins seconded the motion to open discussion and he and Kerchner ultimately voted in support of the shortened ban.

ANNA MArIA cONtiNued

and we will be better than before. It will take time. Everyone out here, they are my friends, my neighbors. I am in the same boat with them. We have to work together and try to help each other where we can. We are moving forward.”

chappie also relayed good news. after Florida department of Transportation crews moved sand from Gulf drive South near cortez Beach it was determined the roadway was still in tact.

“Those asphalt pieces were from the county multiuse trail,” chappie said. “It broke up and was mixed on top of the sand. The roadway itself does not look like there are any problems.”

another piece of good news was the opening of the cortez Bridge Oct. 3 to residents.

people did not waste any time returning for the recovery.

property owner Scott dean was shoveling sand in front of his house at 104 Second ave.

“people are asking me ‘You going to rebuild?’” said dean, who owns two properties in the city. “It’s part of living in paradise. Everyone’s got their thing and this is ours. Hopefully it’s only every 40 years.”

He said he remained hopeful based on the response he had seen from local government.

“It’s really amazing, even just here, to see how fast these guys are working,” dean said. later, city officials announced re-entry guidelines for others.

Beginning at 8 a.m., people with valid work orders, as well as residents, were permitted entry through checkpoints on cortez road West or from Gulf drive North at a Holmes Beach city checkpoint. access to and from longboat Key remained restricted. contractors must present proof of active work in Bradenton Beach to be allowed through the bridge checkpoint.

a citywide curfew remained in effect 7 p.m.-7 a.m. for everyone.

a community care center opened near the corner of Gulf avenue and Bridge Street offering showers, air-conditioned restrooms and a laundry facility. additionally, the manatee county Health department mobile Health clinic was in Bradenton Beach

9 a.m-4 p.m. daily to provide care, medication refills and vaccinations.

also, on Bridge Street at the pier, the anna maria Oyster Bar and the Salvation army were set up to provide hot meals and disaster supplies.

While the outlook for recovery appeared long, cosby Oct. 3 said the city was making steady progress and two weeks ahead of his expectations.

FEMA lands in BB

as of Oct. 3, the Federal Emergency management

5*#%9-%4*-"72%+%6.,*%:*+9#"/95%+24%/923#".2+5%-1+3*%/.,%).9,%5"/*-#)5*

People take a break from cleanup efforts Oct. 3 to visit a hospitality station set up by the Anna maria Oyster Bar and Salvation Army at the east end of Bridge Street at the foot of the Historic Bridge Street Pier, 200 Bridge St., Bradenton Beach. islander Photo: robert Anderson

agency had “boots on the ground” in Bradenton Beach and was canvassing property owners to determine assistance needs.

perry said Oct. 4 that eight FEma representatives would work in Bradenton Beach in sets of two.

“They will come to your house. We gave them a list of every single address in the city and they will be going to every single house,” perry said.

meanwhile, property owners can contact FEma online at disasterassistance.gov or use the FEma app on a smartphone.

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HB adopts $25 million budget

By Ryan Paice Islander Reporter

The city of Holmes Beach has locked in its spending plan for fiscal 2024-25.

City commissioners unanimously voted Oct. 2 on motions to adopt a $25,233,596 budget and 1.99 millage rate for the fiscal year, which began Oct. 1.

Usually, municipalities are required to adopt a spending plan before the start of the fiscal year but state law provides contingencies in case of emergencies like Hurricane Helene.

State law allows temporary postponement or recess of a final budget hearing and subsequently the adoption of budgets, during a state of emergency.

So the city’s Sept. 24 budget hearing was postponed to Oct. 2.

The adopted 1.99 millage rate is a 2.93% reduction from the city’s 2.05 millage rate for fiscal 2023-24 but still represents a tax increase since it did not fall below the 1.8489 rollback rate.

The millage is the amount per $1,000 of property value used to calculate property taxes.

The owner of a property appraised at $500,000 will pay $995 in taxes under the 1.99 millage rate, $30 less than they would have under the 2.05 millage rate.

RoadWatch

Eyes on the road

Lisa Neff

Islandwide : Due to Hurricane Helene, some roads on AMI, especially in Bradenton Beach, may be closed, detoured or slow-going. Drive with caution where allowed in Bradenton Beach due to heavy foot traffic.

Cortez Bridge/State Road 684 : The Florida Department of Transportation will begin relocating utilities on the Cortez Bridge this month between 123rd Street West in Cortez to Gulf Drive North in Bradenton Beach. The project is expected to continue into 2026. Motorists will experience lane closures, detours and side street closures 7 a.m.-7 p.m. MondayFriday. A bike lane and sidewalk in Cortez also will be closed, requiring a detour. For more information, go to amiprojects.io.

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The owner of the same property would have paid $924.45 at the 1.8489 rollback rate.

While Commissioner Dan Diggins previously voted against the 1.99 millage rate, proposing instead to cut reserves to further lower the millage, he changed his vote to “aye” following Helene.

“I was told we didn’t want to cut reserves in case we got ‘the big one,’” Diggins said. “I stand corrected.”

The city’s proposed $25,233,596 spending plan is smaller than this year’s $25,492,838 adopted budget but a little more than $100,000 larger than the $25,121,957 actual budget.

While proposed expenditures for personnel services are set to increase by $999,834, those for operating expenses and capital outlay will decrease by $213,993 and $906,614, respectively.

The spending plan for fiscal 2024-25 also includes a $2,357,400 capital improvement budget.

There were no public comments on the budget or millage rate.

The city commission will meet next at 2 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 22, at city hall, 5801 Marina Drive.

A livestream of the meeting can be viewed on the city’s website, holmesbeachfl.org.

Streetlife

Island police reports

compiled by Robert Anderson and Ryan Paice Anna Maria

Oct. 1, 600 block of South Bay Boulevard, burglary. A complainant told Manatee County sheriff dispatchers their home was broken into. A deputy found a window screen pushed in and footprints. Nothing was taken from the home.

Oct. 1, 800 block of North Shore Drive, burglary. A complainant told dispatchers their house was burglarized and items were left by a seawall in back of their house. They said a family member saw a man exiting and entering the home. An incident report was filed.

The MCSO polices Anna Maria. Bradenton Beach No new reports.

The Bradenton Beach Police Department polices Bradenton Beach. Cortez

No new reports.

The MCSO polices Cortez. Holmes Beach

Sept. 29, 6300 block of Flotilla Drive, Baker Act. A Holmes Beach police officer responded to reports of larceny and found the complainant. He told police he had been chased after facing claims that he had stolen money from a group of acquaintances. The officer investigated the allegations and found them unfounded. The man made several statements expressing suicidal thoughts and plans to do it after police left. The officer placed the man in protective custody under the Baker Act and transported him to the HCA Florida Blake Hospital in Bradenton. There he was sedated after becoming combative in the emergency room.

HB hires new magistrate

By Ryan Paice Islander Reporter

A new face will oversee the city of Holmes Beach’s quasi-judicial code hearings.

City commissioners unanimously voted Sept. 24 to approve an agreement to hire attorney Ernest Mueller, from Tampa-based Mueller Law, to be the municipality’s next special magistrate.

The city’s special magistrate presides over monthly code enforcement hearings and provides rulings on code violations.

Attorney Michael Connolly, from Sarasota-based Fournier, Connolly, Shamsey, Mladinich & Polzak, has served as the city’s special magistrate for the last four years.

However, city attorney Erica Augello said Connolly was set to retire next February and had given the municipality a heads-up so it could find a new magistrate.

Augello said the city issued a request for proposals for magistrate services but had not received any bids in response, so it went out looking for someone and found Mueller.

Under the new contract, the city will pay Mueller $250 per hour for his services as magistrate.

The agreement will be effective for one year and will be renewed automatically every following year until it is terminated.

Either party can terminate the contract upon providing 60 days’ written notice.

The city’s next special magistrate hearing will be at 10 a.m. Thursday, Oct. 17, at city hall, 5801 Marina Drive.

The meeting will be open to the public.

Sept. 29, 6900 block of Holmes Boulevard, domestic battery. An officer responded to reports of a domestic disturbance and found the complainant, who said she had gotten into an argument with her boyfriend and he got physical with her. She pointed to damage at the property that she claimed the boyfriend caused. She did not want to press charges against him. An officer filed a capias request with the state attorney’s office for review.

Sept. 29, 7700 block of Gulf Drive, curfew violation/marijuana. An officer patrolling for curfew violators around 10:15 p.m. found a motorist driving a vehicle without emergency lights. The officer tried to conduct a curfew compliance check but the motorist did not stop until they reached a police checkpoint. The officer spoke with the driver, who did not have identification showing he resided on the island. The officer escorted him to the main police checkpoint on the Anna Maria Island Bridge on Manatee Avenue. The officer asked police at the checkpoint to deny the man’s reentry onto the island during curfew hours. Police also smelled marijuana from inside the man’s vehicle. The man voluntarily disclosed the location of a partially smoked marijuana inside his vehicle’s center console. He was issued a citation.

Holmes Beach Police Department polices Holmes Beach.

“Anna Maria Island,” a pictorial history book of the island by Bonner Joy, publisher of the Islander newspaper, is available at the Islander office, 315 58th St., Holmes Beach.

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

Shore stabilization, events, homelessness set for discussion in Anna Maria

By Ryan Paice Islander Reporter

First hearings are right around the corner for a slate of proposed Anna Maria code changes.

Ordinances involving shoreline stabilization and special events, as well as implementing a prohibition on camping and sleeping in public, were to go before city commissioners for first consideration Oct. 10.

The first of the three ordinances to be discussed will be one that could make homelessness essentially illegal within city limits.

Ordinance 24-937 would prohibit camping and sleeping on public property, buildings or rights of way between dusk and dawn.

The proposed code is a result of House Bill 1365, which holds municipal governments liable for enforcing a ban on public camping.

HB 1365 was signed into law by Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis in March and went into effect on Oct. 1.

Under the new law, residents would be able to pursue litigation starting Jan. 1 against cities like Anna Maria if the public camping ban is not enforced.

The city’s proposed ordinance states that “public sleeping and public camping constitutes a threat and danger to health, safety, security and welfare to the citizens, business owners, visitors and the homeless population.”

Violators of the code would be issued $50 fines for a first offense, $100 fines on a second offense and $200 for each subsequent offense, in addition to a potential trespass warning.

According to the proposed code, “all fines collected resulting from violations of this section shall be held by the city of Anna Maria for the care of the homeless population to fund any non-profit organization that provides shelter, food, or medical care at the discretion and selection by majority vote of the city commission.”

The second proposed ordinance would add definitions for bulkhead and seawall, as well as require building permit applicants to obtain a permit from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection and/ or the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

In lieu of a permit from the DEP or Corps, such applicants must furnish proof of a permit exemption.

The proposed ordinance also deems bulkheads or seawalls determined to be unsafe by the city building official or their designee are in violation of city code.

The third proposed ordinance would make special event permit application fees nonrefundable.

It also would require applicants meet all the city’s conditions and contingencies, such as providing proof of general liability insurance, at least 30 days before the event.

The proposed ordinances were set to be heard Sept. 26 but that meeting was postponed due to Hurricane Helene.

They were scheduled to be discussed during the city commission’s regular meeting at 6 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 10, at city hall, 10005 Gulf Drive.

Directions to attend the meeting via Zoom can be found on the city’s website, cityofannamaria.com. Hurricane Milton could postpone the meeting.

Anna Maria adopts 2024-25 tax reduction

By Ryan Paice Islander Reporter

The city of Anna Maria’s fiscal 2024-25 is already one for the record books.

City commissioners unanimously voted Oct. 3 on motions to adopt a $21,240,929 budget and a 1.65 millage rate for the new fiscal year, which began Oct. 1.

Commissioner Jonathan Crane attended via speakerphone and was allowed by unanimous vote to participate remotely.

Usually, municipalities must adopt a spending plan before the start of the fiscal year but state law provides contingencies in case of emergencies like Hurricane Helene.

State law allows temporary postponement or recess of a final budget hearing, and subsequently the adoption of budgets, during a state of emergency.

Accordingly, the city postponed its Sept. 26 — the arrival date of Hurricane Helene — budget hearing to Oct. 3.

The 1.65 millage rate represents the first ad valorem tax reduction in the city’s 101-year history.

The millage rate is the amount per $1,000 of property value used to calculate property taxes.

A rate of 1.65 mills is a 19.52% reduction from

last year’s 2.05 millage rate and 9.16% lower than the 1.8164 rollback rate.

The rollback rate would have raised the same amount of ad valorem tax revenue as the city raised last year.

Under the 1.65 millage rate, the owner of a property appraised at $500,000 would pay $825 in property taxes — opposed to $1,025 under last year’s 2.05 millage rate.

Despite the tax cut, the adopted budget also represents the municipality’s largest spending plan ever, according to Mayor Dan Murphy.

The $21,240,929 budget is a $3,349,523 increase over last year’s $17,891,406 adopted spending plan.

Some of that increase can be attributed to a 5% salary increase across the board for municipal employees and a $184,042 increase for the cost of contracting the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office for law enforcement services.

The new budget also includes $10,406,281 for capital expenses, including $3,654,059 to improve Pine Avenue and $2,474,995 in stormwater capital improvements.

The city commission will meet next at 2 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 10, at city hall, 10005 Gulf Drive. Directions to attend via Zoom can be found on the city’s website, cityofannamaria.com.

Fishing far from people’s minds as recovery takes priority

By capt. Danny Stasny Islander Reporter

no matter how difficult the task in the recovery from Hurricane Helene.

island.

Before I make an attempt to even talk about fishing, I wish to express my deepest sympathies to all on Anna Maria Island, as well as those in their neighboring coastal areas and along the Manatee River as they try to piece their lives back together after experiencing the worst weather catastrophe I have ever seen in my lifetime living in Manatee County.

To be so hospitable after numerous days filled with loss, displacement and, at times, no hope, shows an outstanding level of character that shines like a beacon far off on the horizon.

The phrase “AMI Strong” came to mind as islanders worked to keep up morale during the long days amid the unrecognizable surroundings of Anna Maria Island.

Until then, stay strong and proud to be in a community where people care about their neighbor.

As far as fishing, I’m just not finding the words.

To be honest, fishing hasn’t been on my mind since the storm and I doubt most of you have given it much thought considering the situation.

The fish will still be there when we get back to normal and the fish stories will again come naturally.

Stasny

It’s truly heartwarming to see such solidarity throughout the community as people are willing to help their neighbors and lend a hand

HB project at city center set for final vote

By Ryan Paice Islander Reporter

Plans to convert a defunct bank into a mini golf course, restaurant, bar and shops are a vote away from approval.

But noise and safety concerns might need to be addressed first.

A major site plan for changes at 5325 Gulf Drive and 5327 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, was discussed by city officials and residents during a Sept. 24 city commission work session.

The two-lot commercial property features a 10,328-square-foot defunct Wells Fargo bank building and was sold for $4,750,000 in June 2023 to former Bradenton Beach Commissioner Jake Spooner.

Plans to redevelop the property include building an outdoor mini golf course, Island Bazaar retail shop, ice cream shop and arcade on the first floor.

On the second floor, his plans feature a restaurant and bar with covered and open roof seating, a kitchen and a candy store.

According to a staff report, 93 total sparking spaces are required to accommodate the proposed operations — with 42 for 125 total restaurant seats, 40 for retail, ice cream, arcade and storage, two for boat slips and

Look for sports news next week …

By Kevin P. cassidy Islander Reporter

Normalcy will come, or a new normal, possibly not sooner than later, but it will come, and when it does we will move on, carrying a library of stories in our minds of how Helene laid waste to our beautiful little

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

Editor’s note: Thanks to Danny and his family, for delivering meals and supplies to some of their fishing friends — those hard hit by Helene!

Site plan for Holmes Beach cocktail bar Ok’d

By Ryan Paice Islander Reporter

Holmes Beach commissioners unanimously voted Sept. 24 to approve site plans for proposed changes to The Doctor’s Office, 5312 Holmes Blvd., as well as a duplex at 5620 Gulf Drive.

The Doctor’s Office is a craft cocktail bar and restaurant owned by Sean Murphy.

It is open 5:30-10 p.m. weekdays and 5:30-11 p.m. weekends.

The business currently offers 66 total seats for guests, but the approved site plan allows an increase to 120 seats due to the addition of 54 outdoor dining seats.

However, the maximum seating capacity can only be used after 5 p.m. on weekdays, after noon on Saturdays and all day on Sundays.

The Doctor’s Office has 11 onsite parking spaces and uses 12 offsite parking spots at Island Lumber and nine for the mini golf course.

While there are only 69 existing parking spaces at the property, redevelopment would increase capacity to 97 total spots, with four compliant under the U.S. Americans with Disabilities Act.

The property also would provide bicycle racks to accommodate up to 36 bikes.

A special exception was requested from the city for amplified music and outdoor recreation uses.

City code allows commissioners to approve exceptions that allow amplified music noon-10 p.m. daily.

City staff recommended approval of the site plan and special exception, with conditions.

The city commission was to meet at 2 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 8, at city hall, 5801 Marina Drive.

Hardware, 213 54th St., that were previously approved via resolution.

The business needs 40 parking spaces to cover 120 guest seats, so it also requested a special exception to use 17 more offsite parking spaces at the Holmes Beach Business Center, 5343 Gulf Drive.

Approval of that special exception request was included in the motion approving the site plan.

Murphy said at the meeting that the Doctor’s Office had never been the subject of any complaints from residents over the past seven years of operation.

He said the business would make “reasonable” use of the increased seating.

“I believe our business is worthy of your trust,” Murphy said.

During public comment, resident Margie Motzer asked commissioners to deny the site plan and special exception request and encouraged requiring onsite parking.

She said residents were concerned about overdevelopment, but the city had approved several occupancy and seating increases for local businesses in recent years.

Motzer also criticized the business for requesting another seating increase only two years after securing an increase to 50 indoor seats and 16 outdoor seats.

On the other hand, former city Commissioner Carol Whitmore spoke in favor of Murphy and his businesses during public comment.

She said the changes seemed compatible with the commercial district and the city could address intensity issues through code enforcement.

Commissioner Pat Morton moved to approve the site plan and special exception request for The Doctor’s Office.

Hurricane Milton could force the city to postpone the meeting.

Commissioner Dan Diggins seconded the motion, which passed.

Commissioners also approved a site plan to redevelop a duplex at 5620 Gulf Drive into a triplex, with two bedrooms per unit.

cassidy

Fishing guides go extra miles for islanders in wake of Helene

By Robert Anderson Islander Reporter

In the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, a group of charter boat captains emerged as heroes, ferrying islanders to and from their homes without asking for a dime.

As floodwaters receded from Anna Maria Island and other coastal communities, some local fishing guides began working to help those in need, even at personal cost.

Hurricane Helene, a Category 4 storm, made landfall late Sept. 26 near Perry with winds reaching 145 mph and storm surge as high as 10 feet. The storm passed within 125 miles of Anna Maria Island, devastating much of the barrier island and low-lying coastal communities. Roads became impassable, electricity was knocked out and hundreds of homes and vehicles were damaged or destroyed by storm surge.

Before the bridge reopenings, many people who stayed despite an evacuation notice for coastal areas were stranded on the island and those who evacuated were left with no way back to check on their homes.

That’s when guide captains like Lucas Engel, Devin Calderon, Jason Stock, Josh Prunier and others took to the waters in their boats to provide transportation and supplies.

“There’s a lot of positives that are happening in the community,” Engel, who runs Lucas Engel Charters, said in a Sept. 30 interview with The Islander. “Rather than look at the negatives in the whole situation, we are going out there to figure out ways where we can help as many people as we can.”

“My house did not get flooded and didn’t really get impacted that bad from the hurricane,” he added. “So where I can do my part and help others, I will, and it’s just not just me who’s been doing it.”

“I saw that both bridges were closed and everyone was just dying to get out of there,” Calderon said. “People were talking and I saw it all over Facebook and the internet. So I just went ahead.”

Calderon owns and operates Chase the Blue charters, an inshore and offshore fishing charter business on AMI.

Engel, Calderon, Miller, Prunier and others collectively helped hundreds of people reach their properties, as well as delivered food, water and cleaning supplies.

For some who returned, it was the captains who provided a chance for people to look for lost pets or deliver critical medication.

“It’s been chaotic but we keep moving, keep transporting stuff and people,” said Stock, who spent the first week after the storm navigating debris-filled waterways. “With the traffic and everything it’s been easier to go by boat.”

None of the captains asked for payment, taking only donations that mainly went toward fuel for the next trip.

However, some incurred damage to their vessels from debris in the water.

“I damaged my prop shaft and had to replace my gear case and it cost me about $4,000,” said Prunier, who runs Rippin Lips Charters out of the Warners Bayou Boat Ramp. He said many of the captains who were running people to the island shared similar issues.

“A couple other captains have hit some submerged objects as well and I’m pretty sure they’re not on the water today due to that,” he said.

“I’m a local charter boat captain, obviously I am going to be heavily affected by what’s going on,” Prunier added. “I mean, the community supports me. So I figured it was a good thing to support the community. A lot of people lost everything. I was fortunate enough not to have my house flooded. So I thought about what I could do to be productive in the meantime?”

Calderon also suffered damage to his boat in the process of providing transport to those in need.

“So I ran really hard for the first few days and then a few days ago I hit something in the water. I think it was a sunken boat and I lost my whole lower unit,” Calderon said. “Another captain towed me to the Kingfish Boat Ramp and I was able to get the boat out and it’s now at the shop.”

Calderon estimated the repair to his outboard, a 2024 Suzuki 250, to be around $4,000.

However, both Prunier and Calderon said they plan to continue shuttling people, even with the expense of repairs, until transport isn’t needed anymore.

The area, known for its tight-knit, waterfront fishing community, has now seen the effects of a major storm surge, with floodwaters destroying homes and businesses.

People who evacuated prior to the storm returned to find entire streets inundated with sand and bridges closed for safety.

However, despite the destruction, the spirit of community remained strong.

While efforts to restore power and clear roads continued in the first week after the hurricane, the guides, some named and some not, remained on the water, helping where they could. For them, their work as

guides wasn’t disrupted by the natural disaster — it just took on a different form.

To reach Capt. Luke Engel call 941-447-1524. To reach Capt. Josh Prunier call 941-580-7363. To reach Capt. Devin Calderon call 941-2098223.

To reach Capt. Jason Stock call 727-459-5899.

People are transported with cleaning supplies from the mainland to Anna Maria Island aboard capt. Josh Prunier’s boat Sept. 29. Islander Photo: courtesy Josh Prunier

capt. Jason Stock transports people Oct. 3 to Anna Maria Island aboard his 26-foot skiff. Islander Photo: courtesy Jason Stock

Nesting notes

By Masha Dolgoff

Nesting season ends

Sea turtle nesting season on Anna Maria Island came to an early end with Hurricane Helene. The official end date was declared to be Sept. 25 by Kristen Mazzarella, executive director of Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring.

The regular nesting season, when sea turtles come ashore Anna Maria Island beaches to lay their eggs, lasts from May 1 to Oct. 31.

“I was able to check on two of the nests and they were gone,” Mazzarella said in a phone conversation with the Islander Oct. 4. “Essentially, our season is done and the patrol is over.”

There were eight remaining nests in total before the onset of the hurricane, leaving six in Bradenton Beach whose status is unknown but which very likely got washed away.

Mazzarella said she didn’t want to interfere with the road clearing in Bradenton Beach to check on the nests.

More about AMITW

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

“They told me I could go further, but I did not,” Mazzarella said about Manatee County giving AMITW special permission to patrol farther on the beach.

She said she aimed to do one last patrol with Manatee County eventually, but didn’t hear any reports of possible nests remaining in the area.

“We’re going to try to focus on helping Keep Manatee Beautiful and doing some beach cleanup so we can help the turtles that way, by keeping the trash out of the ocean,” said Mazzarella.

Mazzarella also is processing the final numbers for this season to send to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, which might take as late as November.

She checks the various parameters of the records of nesting season for accuracy, such as the number of crawls, which may take until November.

Still the current totals of the season are closely representative of what the FWC will see in the report.

As of the last report sent out by AMITW Sept. 20, there were 685 total nests laid, 302 hatched nests and 20,554 hatchlings produced.

Despite damage from storms, it was still a record high number of nests, beating the 2019 total of 543.

Other impacts

The AMITW office at 5386 Gulf Drive in Holmes Beach received about a foot of water intrusion like many other structures. Also, some volunteers suffered extensive damage to their property.

Mazzarella said turtle watch is coming together to help each other and others in the community.

AMItW reported 685 sea turtle nests, 835 false crawls and 302 hatched nests producing 20,554 hatchlings.

“The businesses were all working together to get their stuff out,” Mazzarella said.

When the vice president of AMITW needed a cooler, Mazzarella brought her their sample fridge.

“I’m just happy that we did well. Our ATVs made it through the storm and our equipment was already in storage,” Mazzarella said.

Where’s Henrietta?

Henrietta, Anna Maria Island’s entry in the 2024 tour de turtles, was swimming in ninth place out of 10 in the research-focused marathon as of Oct. 4. Henrietta was tagged with a satellite tracker in June at coquina Beach for the “race” that began Aug. 2. From the tour de turtles, researchers learn about where adult sea turtles swim, as well as how often they go ashore to nest and where. As of Oct. 3, Henrietta had logged 198 miles. Islander Screenshot

o my neighbors, friends, clients and Anna Maria Island lovers ... I want to extend a special thank you to everyone who has been on the ground helping. It’s really what the Island is all about and it’s been so nice to see neighbors getting together and being together again in these days of need. It’s not one for themselves, it’s all for one or none for all.

AMI will be stronger for this; relationships will be stronger and our Island will recover because we love our Island and know how special it is. And now is when we see how special the people are, too.

#AMISTRONG

www.premiersothebysrealty.com/blog/Hurricane-Helene-Relief-Resources

941.713.5458

Shellie.Young@PremierSIR.com

Dolgoff

Shellie Young, PA, MCNS, IARP, CLHMS Million Dollar Guild Premier Sotheby’s International Realty Servicing Anna Maria Island, Longboat Key & Waterfront Properties

By Lisa Neff

Helene’s toll

Helene’s eye might have been 150 miles west over the Gulf of Mexico when passing Sept. 26 but the hurricane did not take a pass on AMI and local communities in the area.

More than a week after Helene’s destructive storm surge struck, damage assessments were still taking place, mucking up was ongoing, emergency cleanups were underway and first-views of the devastation still bringing tears, gulps and shivers despite our early fall heat.

Despite the wreckage of place and property, I haven’t held a conversation with a friend or colleague, even source, who hasn’t recognized the suffering and loss elsewhere from Helene and, before that category 4 storm, the damaging Debby.

People here are looking to others hard hit in Manatee, up the coast to Pinellas and beyond into other states and recognizing that despite what happened on AMI we still didn’t lose lives.

A look at what Helene’s record as of Oct. 4: Hurricane Helene made landfall in the Big Bend area of the Florida Gulf Coast as a Category 4 storm late Sept. 26.

We knew it would be bad days earlier.

On Sept. 23, from the National Hurricane Center, we had notice of a “potential tropical cyclone 9” strengthening, prompting tropical storm warnings and hurricane watches for Mexico and Cuba and putting the Florida Gulf coast on notice.

The National Weather Service issued Sept. 24 a warning to eastern Gulf coast communities to prepare

Helene at peak intensity just prior to landfall in the Big Bend region of Florida late Sept. 26. Islander

Photo: courtesy National Weather Service

for catastrophic, life-threatening flooding.

That day Manatee County’s emergency management team issued an evacuation notice for Zone A, including all of AMI, beginning at 10 a.m. Sept. 25.

By about 1 p.m. Sept. 25, we had a hurricane in the Gulf, about 480 miles south-southwest of AMI, with maximum sustained winds of 80 mph. There was a warning for damaging storm surge all along this coast and especially in the Big Bend.

As Helene continued to strengthen Sept. 25 and into Sept. 26 over the warmer-than-usual Gulf, high water was found in yards and roads in our coastal communities during the day but the storm delivered much worse through the night of Sept. 26.

Just before landfall, in its 11 p.m. Sept. 26 discussion, the NHC said the fast-moving Helene continued to strengthen rapidly to Category 4 status before it

Sandy situation

Sand came off the beaches during Hurricane Helene Sept. 26-27 but sand can’t just be bulldozed back to the beaches.

Crews, the week beginning Sept. 30, were working to remove the sand accumulation on Anna Maria Island, including clearing roads and rights of way.

The sand that was being recovered from roadways was to be sorted, sifted, tested and returned to the beach under Florida Department of Environmental Protection and State Health Department requirements.

However, sand removal from private homes and business is the responsibility of the owner as support agencies cannot enter private property, according to Manatee County’s public affairs office.

Any sand deposited on private property cannot simply be returned to the beach in part due to concerns for debris, nails or household contaminants like oil, bleach and fertilizers.

The county cautioned property owners: “Any dumping of sand from private properties on the beach is a direct violation of DEP regulations. It is very important that the sand from private property not be mixed with the sand currently piled up on the roadsides. Residents with any remaining sandbags are encouraged to keep them through the end of storm season.”

Hurricane season ends Nov. 30.

— Lisa Neff

approached the coast.

There were these key messages:

• A catastrophic and deadly storm surge is occurring along portions of the Florida Big Bend coast, where inundation could reach as high as 20 feet above ground level, along with destructive waves.

There also is a danger of life-threatening storm surge along the remainder of the west coast of the Florida Peninsula.

• Catastrophic hurricane-force winds are occurring near the coast within the eyewall of Helene and will spread inland over portions of northern Florida and southern Georgia.

capt. Devon calderon waits for passengers to boat his vessel at the Kingfish Boat Ramp in Holmes Beach Sept. 25. calderon helped ferry people to and from the island after Helene. Islander Photo: courtesy Devon calderon

• Damaging wind gusts will penetrate well inland over portions of Georgia and the Carolinas tonight, particularly over the higher terrain of the southern Appalachians.

• Catastrophic and life-threatening flash and urban flooding, including numerous significant landslides, is expected across portions of the southern Appalachians.

Some of largest impacts were across the southern Appalachians, where widespread severe and unprecedented flooding occurred with hundreds of fatalities and billions in property damage.

The impact of the storm in the United States estimated in dollars was about $27.5 billion as of Oct. 4.

There’s human suffering associated with that number but the more horrific number is 221, which was the number of lives lost as of early Oct. 4, the morning I wrote this column.

Helene, as of that day, was the deadliest to strike the United States since Maria in 2017 and the deadliest to strike the continental U.S. since Katrina in 2006.

With search-and-rescue operations still underway Oct. 4, the number probably went higher.

Neff

ITEMS FOR SALE

EXERcISE BALL, $20, side tables, round, glass-top, 2/$20, assorted box of new locks, $10. 941-920-2494.

ANtIQUE PARtNER DESK: All wood, $500. Inquire at the Islander office, 315 58th St. Suite J, Holmes Beach. 941-778-7978.

FREEBIE ITEMS FOR SALE

Individuals may place one free ad with up to three items, each priced $100 or less, 15 words or less. FREE, one week, must be submitted online. Email classifieds@islander. org. (limited time offer).

LOST & FOUND

MISSING cAt: HOLMES BEAcH. Male, cinnamon. Don’t attempt to catch, do feed. If seen, call Mel, 941-592-2551.

TRANSPORTATION

GOLF c ARt REN tALS: Fun for residents and tourists! 212-941-2402. www.GolfcartRentalAMI.com

RV FOR SALE: Will deliver. 2013 t hor c hallenger 37K t c lass A 5500 Onan generator. $60,000. John.gravitt@frontier.com.

the Islander website offers essential news for residents and visitors. c heck it out: islander.org.

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.

SUN c OAS t BO tt OM PAIN t ING: Professional bottom painting. Mobile. c all 941704-9382.

cAPtAIN FOR HIRE and boat caretaker services: If you need help with your boat on or off the water, call c aptain Dan. US c G, retired. 772-486-8085.

WELcOME ABOARD JOYFISH charters for private fishing, sunset cruises, and dolphin watching. check out joyfishcharters.com or follow us on Facebook. call to reserve, 941840-3181.

HELP WANTED

WANt tO WORK? Immediate opening. custodian needed to service numerous buildings and grounds. Must perform variety of cleaning tasks. Requires prolonged walking and standing. Must be able to work independently and with others. High school degree and valid Florida driver’s license required. competitive compensation. 941-794-1250.

NOW HIRING HANDYMAN: Full-time professional services. $18 an hour and up, based on experience. c all JayPros, 941962-2874.

REPORt ER WAN t ED: Full- to part-time. Print media, newspaper experience required. Apply via email with letter of interest to news@islander.org.

KIDS FOR HIRE

KIDS FOR HIRE ads are FREE for up to three weeks for Island youths under 16 looking for work. Ads must be placed in person at the Islander office, 315 58th St. Suite J, Holmes Beach.

SERVICES

IS YOUR HOME or office in need of some cleaning? Well, I’m your girl! Local, reliable, professional! Please, give me a call or text, 941-773 -0461.

SERVICES Continued

P c OR t E c H issues? Not sure where to start? With years of experience, I’ll come to you with reliable solutions. contact Gavin at 928-587-1309. www.gse.codes

SARASOtA PAINtING: INtERIOR/exterior/ cabinets: call or text Don, 941-900-9398. Free estimates. Fully insured, twenty years’ experience.

U PLUS ME LLc: Provides quality coatings for pool decks, driveways, garage floors, patios. Don’t miss out on our pro polishing services, concrete, terrazzo, travertine. 727623-5050.

RIDEEASY 247 YOUR professional, reliable and courteous car service to airports and events since 2015. You can reach us via text 941-447-7737 or email to mrfort5001@gmail. com We are available 24/7.

LOOK NO MORE! Residential, vacation rental and commercial cleaning. Give us a call, 941-250-8548.

LOOKING FOR SOMEONE who needs me: c lean, house-sit. I can cook, make sandwiches. I can do anything you can do but better! I can run to the grocery store for you. I can walk pets or go out to lunch with you. Looking for a part-time job caregiving companion, I am your right arm! I love people and I love helping others. I have references and I’m reliable and dependable. My name is Dena Gray a.k.a. Sparkles! 941-704-9948.

OUR SERVIcES: cLEANING, home repairs, tile, concrete, remodeling, decks, steps, flooring, water drainage solutions, rental 24-hour services. Hurricane shutters and pre-storm service. New, low-cost generator and insulation (starts and runs on propane when power off). No permits needed. Islander, over 40 years here! call 941-4049163.

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.

API’S DRYWALL REPAIR: I look forward to servicing your drywall repair needs. call 941524-8067 to schedule an appointment.

IS YOUR POOL deck, driveway, or garage floor looking worn out and dated? Bring them back to life with our top-tier resurfacing services! Services offered: Pool deck resurfacing, Slip-resistant, cool-to-the-touch finishes that enhance safety and aesthetics. Driveway resurfacing, durable surfaces that stand up to heavy traffic and harsh weather. Garage floor resurfacing, easy-to-clean, stain-resistant surfaces that look great and perform even better. Don’t wait! transform your spaces today with our trusted resurfacing services. contact us now for a free consultation and estimate. call U Plus Me LLc at 727-6235050 or visit u-plus-me.com.

WINDOW cLEANING: DOWNEASt Window cleaning, 207-852-6163.

BUSINESS- t O-BUSINESS JD’s Window cleaning looking for storefront jobs in Holmes Beach. I make dirty windows sparkling clean. 941-920-3840.

BEA c H SERVI c E air conditioning, heat, refrigeration. c ommercial and residential service, repair and/or replacement. Serving Manatee c ounty and the Island since 1987. For dependable, honest and personalized service, call Bill Eller, 941-720-7411. cAc184228.

c LEAN t E c H 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. 941-713-1965.

cOLLINS LANDScAPE LIGHtING: Outdoor lighting, landscaping, irrigation services and maintenance. 941-279-9947. MJc24373@ gmail.com

NOW HAULING StORM trash. Shell delivered and spread. Hauling all kinds of gravel, mulch, topsoil with free estimates. call Larry at 941-795-7775, or “shell phone” 941-7200770.

HOME IMPROVEMENT

VAN-GO PAINtING residential/commercial, interior/exterior, pressure cleaning, wallpaper. Island references. Bill, 941-795-5100. www.vangopainting.net.

GRIFFIN’S HOME IMPROVEMENtS Inc. Handyman, fine woodwork, countertops, cabinets and wood flooring. Insured and licensed. 941-722-8792.

LANE’S ScREENING SERVIcES: Replace your window, door or lanai screens. Many screen options available. Retired veteran serving our community! Free estimates, call 941-705-5293.

LOOKING FOR ANY home improvement? JRcc Home Improvement, handyman service can get the job done. Please, contact us at 413-246-2410. We would love to help.

tILE-tILE-tILE: All variations of ceramic tile supplied and installed. Quality workmanship, prompt, reliable, many Island references. call Robert, 941-726-3077.

DONALD PERKINS PAINtING LLc. Interior/exterior/pressure washing. Island references. dperkinspaint@hotmail.com. 941705-7096.

GORILLA DRYWALL REPAIR LLc. Let’s solve your drywall problems together. Give us a call at 941-286-0607.

MASSEY cONtRActING: PROVIDING quality roofing services on all jobs, big or small. Giving honest, hassle-free quotes at a great price. call Jon to schedule your free estimate, 727-477-5313. Lic#ccc1332486.

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.

ISLAND HANDYMAN: I live here, work here, value your referral. Refinish, paint. Just ask. JayPros. Licensed/insured. References. call Jay, 941-962-2874.

LOOKING FOR AN EARLY BIRD? You can read Wednesday’s classifieds on tuesday at islander.org. And it’s FREE!

RENTALS

ANNA MARIA GULF beachfront vacation rentals. One- two- and three-bedroom units, all beachfront. www.amiparadise.com. 941778-3143.

AVAILABLE NOW AND season: 1BR/1BA, seven-night minimum. carlesvacationrentals. com. Special rates are available. 941-8071405.

FOR RENt: Anna Maria Island condo. Great value, beautiful upgraded 2BR/2BR. Incredible water view. Pool, tennis, walk to beach. Private carport. Excellent rental terms. Owner/renter. call/email for pictures, 570-239-0431. marketreps@aol.com

SEASONAL RENtAL: Bradenton 55-plus community. Large 2BR/2BA condo on bay, exceptional views. Elevator and five minutes to bridge. No smoking, No pets. $4,650/month. three-month minimum. Photos at https://barbaragillespie.wixsite. com/47872024. 732-748-0759.

2025 SEASONAL RENtAL: Just one block from the beach, single-story 2BR/2BA private residence, screened patio. No smoking/ no pets. Monthly. January-April. 64th Street, Holmes Beach. call 813-833-4926.

2BR/1BA ANNUAL LEASE: Electric/ac/heat all included. $2,975/month. Looking for 1 or 2 quiet adults with no pets or smoking. Steps to Gulf. Owner-occupied duplex. Owner, 508496-8480. williamshomes@yahoo.com.

JANUARY 2025 AVAILABLE: Snowbird special! Perico Island patio home, single floor, high ceilings, 3BR/2BA, privacy wall/gate, two-car garage. call or text Alison, 859-7716423. www.pericoislandrental.com

LAKEFRONt cONDO: 2BR/2BA 1,450-foot gated, pool. Available December, January, March. text, 416-985-0623.

REAL ESTATE

WINNIE McHALE, REALtOR, 941-5046146. Dalton Wade Real Estate. 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.”

2BR/2BA HOME for sale. 3,000 sfur. 1,100 sf garage. Steps to beach. $1,449,000. 941518-6329.

PRIVAtE SALE: tHE perfect VRBO or private vacation home. Beautiful beachside bungalow direct marina front with peek-a-boo views of Palma Sola Bay. Private boat docks are available. Just off the SR 64 causeway at Palma Sola Bay in the highly sought-after community of Palma Sola Park. this beautiful 2BR/2BA, sleeps 8 with heated salt pool and large tiki bar. $1,200,000. contact owner, 941-661-6196.

Businesses slowly reopen

By Ryan Paice Islander Reporter

Many Anna Maria Island businesses were still working toward reopening in the first full week after Hurricane Helene.

But some were already at work.

In Bradenton Beach, which was deemed 90%-95% destroyed following the storm, the SALT Bar & Table, 2519 Gulf Drive N., was one of the only businesses to reopen prior to the weekend of Oct. 5-6.

SALT reopened Oct. 4 and was operating daily beginning at 3:30 p.m., with last reservations by 7 p.m.

The restaurant was offering island workers 50% off and 10% off for everyone else, as well as providing shuttle rides from Walgreens, 3200 E. Bay Drive.

People interested in a ride could call 941-8969897.

As of Oct. 4, several businesses also had reopened in Anna Maria and Holmes Beach.

In Anna Maria, they include:

• The Anna Maria General Store, 503 Pine Ave., open 8 a.m.-7 p.m. and offering 20% off on grill, deli and fresh foods;

• Bortell’s Lounge, 10002 Gulf Drive, open 11 a.m.-6 p.m. and offering free beers, hot dogs and ice;

• City Pier Grill, on the T-end of the Anna Maria City Pier, open 11 a.m.-7 p.m. and offering 20% off all menu prices;

• Mademoiselle Paris, 9906 Gulf Drive, open 7:30 a.m.-7 p.m. and offering free drinks, as well as free lunch for first responders;

• Poppo’s Taqueria, 212C Pine Ave., open 10 a.m.-6 p.m.;

• The Porch Restaurant, 9707 Gulf Drive, open noon-8 p.m.;

• Slim’s Place, 9701 Gulf Drive, open noon-7 p.m. and offering free lunch to 3 p.m. and happy hour drink prices all day;

• Sushi Ramen, 9801 Gulf Drive #7, open 1-9 p.m.

In Holmes Beach, reopened businesses include:

• The Chateau Anna Maria, 5325 Marina Drive at Waterline Resort, open noon-8 p.m.;

• Topsail Steamer, 5321 Gulf Drive, open noon-5 p.m. with proceeds benefitting the Center of Anna Maria Island;

• Edibles N More, 5368 Gulf Drive, open 11 a.m.-4 p.m.;

• Island Lumber & Hardware, 213 54th St., open 7 a.m.-5 p.m.;

• Publix Super Market, 3900 E. Bay Drive, open 8 a.m.-5 p.m.;

• Salon Salon of AMI, 3612 E. Bay Drive, open 9 a.m.-5 p.m. and offering a complimentary shampoo service;

• The Doctor’s Office and Garden was expected to open over the weekend at 5312 Holmes Blvd;

The following shops are in the Anna Maria Island Centre shops on East Bay Drive:

• Paradise Bagels & Cafe, 7 a.m.-2 p.m. daily.

• Cheesecake Cutie, open 7 a.m.-noon;

• China 1, open 11 a.m.-6 p.m.;

• Holy Cow Ice Cream, open 11 a.m.-2:30 p.m. and offering free food, drinks, ice cream and disaster supplies;

• Kiwi Fish and Chips, open 11 a.m.-6 p.m. and offering 10% off service fees with code ISLANDCLEANUP;

• Los Chiludos, open 11 a.m.-6 p.m.;

• Old Hamburg Schnitzelhaus, open 4:30-9 p.m.;

• Zen Nails & Spa, open 9 a.m.-6 p.m.

• Solos Pizza, open 1-6 p.m. and offering $2 pizza and $3 draft beers;

• Island Mail & Print, open 10 a.m.-5 p.m., offering pickup and dropoff for The Islander newspaper.

• Walgreens, open 7 a.m.-midnight.

And the Monkey Bus, a service that offers rides across the island, also reopened Oct. 3. For a ride, call 941-565-6542.

State: bridge loans available for small businesses

The state has activated its Florida Small Business Emergency Bridge Loan Program, making $15 million available for businesses impacted by Hurricane Helene.

Florida small business owners in need of assistance can visit floridajobs.org/ebl to apply for shortterm, zero-interest loans for damages and economic injury due to Hurricane Helene.

The program will be open through Nov. 24 or the funds are spent.

Specific documentation is needed in order to apply for loans up to $50,000 to “bridge the gap” between the time a disaster impacts a business and when a business has secured longer term recovery funding, such as federally or commercially available loans, insurance claims, or other resources.

— Lisa Neff

BizCal

By Lisa Neff

Oct. 16, Bayfest. CANCELED DUE TO HELENE. Oct. 19, AMI chamber Bayfest, Anna Maria. CANCELED DUE TO HELENE.

Oct. 31, 4-6:30 p.m., AMI chamber Trail of Treats, AMI business districts. CANCELED DUE TO HELENE. Nov. 7, 4 p.m., Manatee Chamber Fall Expo, LECOM Park, 1611 Ninth St. W., Bradenton.

By carol Bernard

Real estate sales were not available for the week.

Business news Does your business celebrate achievements? Maybe you’re new in business? Email news@islander.org.

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