The islander newspaper e edition wednesday, jan 24, 2018 by The Anna Maria Islander Newspaper

Hot wheels. 23

Friendly enforcement. 24

JAN. 24, 2018 FREE

VOLUME 26, NO. 13

AsTheWorldTerns alert to global warming. 6 Anna Maria engineers answer pier rebuild questions. 4

Meetings

On the government calendar. 4 Day dock delay holds up water taxi launch. 5

Op-Ed

The Islander editorial, reader letters. 6

10-20 YEARS AGO

From the archives. 7 Island leaders push back on state rental legislation. 8

Happenings

Community events, announcements. 10-11 Save a date. 12-13

PropertyWatch.

BB extends building moratorium. 16

Streetlife. 20 WMFR announces annual awards. 21

Obituaries. 22 Holmes Beach observes Florida Arbor Day. 24 A winter sunrise. 26 AME kids take kindness challenge. 26 Football dominates center field. 28 Winter fishing. 29

ISL BIZ. 30

The Best News on Anna Maria Island Since 1992

www.islander.org

Holmes Beach presses for treehouse demolition

By Terry O’Connor Islander Reporter It’s time to knock it down. the nearly five-year legal battle waged between the city of Holmes Beach and the owners of an illegal beachfront treehouse is entering its final stages. Or so the city hopes. the city issued a code enforcement notice Jan. 18 directing the treehouse owners to apply for a demolition permit. Failure to do so within three weeks likely would result in a city lawsuit to force compliance, according to Mayor Bob Johnson. After the U.S. Supreme Court declined to hear a petition filed by Lynn tran and husband Richard Hazen, the treehouse owners said they would ask the city for a reprieve from demolition for the treehouse at their property at 103 29th St., which includes their home and four short-term rental units named Angelinos Sea Lodge. “We had planned to ask the city leaders for reconsideration, taking into account the fact that there are many others who have asked the treehouse to stay from near and far, all the way to London, Germany and

notice, tran wrote. “to our disappointment, we received a code enforcement notice from the mayor to apply for a demolition permit, following the order of the defunct code enforcement board back in 2013,” tran wrote. “We don’t have a plan today.” Johnson said tran and Hazen have until Feb. 9 to apply for a permit to demolish the structure, which was built in 2011 without city or state permits. tran said earlier in January she would ask for a meeting to pursue saving the treehouse. Instead, the city issued what amounts to an ultimatum. tran and Hazen have been under city order to remove the treehouse since 2013. It’s been a long, expensive court battle. tran and Hazen say they’ve paid more than $180,000 in attorney fees and costs, which does not include city-imposed fines Holmes Beach is pressing the owners to ordered July 22, 2015, of $50 per day, apply for a permit to demolish their treeamounting to $45,600 as of Jan. 19. house. Islander Photo: Bonner Joy City treasurer Lori Hill said Holmes Spain,” tran wrote in a Jan. 19 email to the Beach has paid nearly $130,000 in attorney Islander. fees and costs. those hopes were dashed by the city More treehouse news, pages 2, 3.

Cold-stunned sea turtle rescued by youth

ITPO charts 2018 course. 14

Shorebird survey. 27

By ChrisAnn Silver esformes The Islander It pays to pay attention in school. Max Higgins, 11, of Anna Maria, a fifthgrader at Anna Maria elementary School, applied knowledge learned from educational talks at his school when he discovered a green sea turtle in trouble Jan. 19 in the rocks on the shoreline near the Rod & Reel Pier in Anna Maria. According to his mother, Laurie Jo Higgins, Max was fishing at dusk near the rocks when she came to pick him up. He told her he’d found a turtle in the rocks and took her to the spot. “Max knew not to touch it and that we were supposed to call the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission hotline for help,” Higgins said, referring to federal regulations that prohibit handling the endangered species. “He said he knew what to do because he’d learned from turtle Watch talks at his school.” Higgins said they waited with the sea turtle until FWC representatives contacted Suzi Fox, Anna Maria Island turtle Watch

executive director, who responded to the scene. Fox identified the juvenile green sea turtle and confirmed it was suffering the effects of a rapid drop in water temperature, known as “cold-stunning.” Please see SeA TuRTle Page 2

AMI chamber names new president

After six years on staff and several months as acting president of the Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce, terri Kinder is the new president for the Kinder 600-plus member business organization. Please see TReeHOuSe Page 2 Kinder stepped into the top position on the departure of president Deb Wing Dec. 1, 2017. then-board chair eric Cairns said a nationwide search for a replacement would begin, however, the search stayed in-house. Kinder began work at the chamber more than six years ago and was promoted to vice president in July 2015. A vice president has not been named. Kinder said Jan. 19, “I’m very humbled by the faith (the board members) are putting in me to continue moving the chamber forward as a positive resource for our business community, its residents and visitors.” A juvenile green sea turtle is prepped for Board chair Bev Lesnick did not respond transport Jan. 20 to Mote Marine Labora- to a request for comment by press time. tory in Sarasota. Islander Photo: AMITW — Sandy Ambrogi

2 n JAN. 24, 2018 n THE ISLANDER

Treehouse opinions ﬂood Holmes Beach email

the city of Holmes Beach received more than 50 emails — pro and con — over its handling of the treehouse owned by Lynn tran and Richard Hazen on the beachfront at 103 29th St., which includes their home and four short-term rental units named Angelinos Sea Lodge. Here are a few of them: “the treehouse crew has always preferred the court of public opinion to the rule of law. they sued. they lost. It’s $140,000 too late to negotiate.” — Allen Wurzbach, former Homes Beach resident and planning commission member “When is it coming down and when are they paying the fine? It is ridiculous how much they have cost us in tax dollars over something that should have been torn down three years ago.” — George Talbot, Holmes Beach “Count this one for tearing the treehouse down now. It is an illegal eyesore.” — Joel Shoemaker, Bradenton “these treehouse owners have made the city spend our tax dollars to fight their foolish pursuit. It would be very wrong for the city to now change course and allow them to keep their treehouse.”

SeA TuRTle CONtINUeD FROM PAGe 1 According to Fox, the turtle had some tumors, but its eyes were clear, an indicator it could survive. Fox, whose FWC permit allows her to handle sea turtles, kept the turtle overnight and AMItW volunteer Dave Ault transported it Jan. 20 to Mote Marine Laboratory in Sarasota for rehabilitation. Because sea turtles are reptiles, their body temMax Higgins, 11, of Anna Maria, is pictured in September 2017 carrying his fishing gear to the Rod perature varies with the surrounding water. A very rapid drop in the air and water temperature can cause & Reel Pier in Anna Maria. Max spotted a coldstunned green sea turtle struggling in the rocks near sea turtles to become inactive and settle close to the the pier Jan. 19 and quickly acted to save the turtle. bottom, where they can drown. Fox said smaller juvenile green turtles feeding on Islander Photo: Courtesy Laurie Jo “Mom” Higgins

— Anthony Niewijk, Holmes Beach “she cost this town. stick with the law and tear it down.” — Karen MacDonald, Holmes Beach “We are so upset and disappointed to see you are ordering the demolition of the treehouse.” — Betty Fischer, England “As a result of the way you choose to treat your citizens, my wife and I will no longer visit your community for any reason.” — Greg Wojtak, Stevens Point, Wisconsin “Don’t you have anything better to do than worry about tearing down that treehouse? We will not be visiting your town any more.” — Ian Smith, no town listed “Attempting to force the treehouse removal is heartbreaking and changes my perception of the area. I’ve been disillusioned in my perception of Holmes Beach.” — Kathy Hughes Williams, Evans, Georgia “Your city’s handling of this treehouse problem has been disgraceful.” — Chris Fuller, Indian Rocks Beach — Terry O’Connor seagrass in tampa Bay are more susceptible to the drop in water temperature. “With the weather change, we knew we would see some small greens like this,” Fox said Jan 20. “the important thing is if you see a turtle bobbing in the surf, or washed ashore, let us know.” Fox said she couldn’t be more pleased than to learn of Max’s response to the emergency. “this is the goal — to educate our children to become our conservationists,” Fox said. “We are meeting the goal and coming full circle.” to report a cold-stunned or stranded sea turtle, contact Fox at 941-778-5638 or call the FWC Wildlife Alert Hotline at 888-404-3922.

Unique Pet Portraits

Composited images printed to stretched canvas

6HOƓHV Sunsets PRINTS FROM

Click!

the Islander welcomes news of the milestones in readers’ lives — weddings, anniversaries, births, deaths, travels and other events. Submit notices and photographs with detailed captions — along with complete contact information — to news@islander.org.

THE ISLANDER n Jan. 24, 2018 n 3

Street views on the treehouse text and photos by Kathy Prucnell

Anna Maria visitors Bob and Sara Schlosser of Vermont weigh in Jan. 16 on the treehouse while at Ginny’s and Jane E’s at the Old IGA, 9807 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria. Bob Schlosser says the treehouse owners should take it down, while Sara said she saw it and thought “that’s cool.” She’s undecided on letting it stay.

Bob Ihrig of New York, a regular AMI visitor, shares his opinion at Paradise Bagels, 3220 E. Bay Drive, Holmes Beach. Taking the case to the U.S. Supreme Court was “kind of a joke,” he said Jan. 16, adding too much money was spent on litigation.

Sharron Hadden of Indiana, Great Britain, and a regular Anna Maria visitor, sides with the city Jan. 16 in the treehouse dispute. She believes the beachfront structure must come down to protect against setting a precedent in sensitive coastal areas.

Malcolm Shantz and Ron Beveridge, of Holmes Beach and originally from Ontario, Canada, agree with the city’s stance Jan. 16 and believe the treehouse must come down. Shantz believes a compromise should’ve been worked out earlier, but now it’s too late. Beveridge said, “If they get away with it, others will do the same thing.”

For more opinions on the treehouse, search treehouse on The Islander website or Facebook page.

SUNSET CRUISES DOLPHIN TOURS

JOIN US on the ANNA MARIA EXPLORER for a romantic sunset cruise or educational dolphin tour!

TOURS LEAVE DAILY! 11 AM, 2 PM and SUNSET Adult: $25 Kids: $15 Seniors: $20 PRIVATE TOURS AVAILABLE

es!

r all ag

o Great f

GO2DOLP

HINS.COM

Experience our breathtaking SUNSET on a relaxing cruise. Sunset Tours are 90-minutes long and fun for the whole family

TOURS SUNSET he on t LORER RIA EXP s A M A N AN Adult $5 OFF

Lynn Tran talks in November 2017 with The Islander about her desire to keep the treehouse she and husband Richard Hazen built on the beachfront around an Australian pine tree. The two-level treehouse has windows and solar electricity. Islander Photo: Kathy Prucnell

BEER AND WINE SERVED ABOARD

CALL OR BOOK ONLINE TODAY! 941-778-2288 GO2DOLPHINS.COM 402 CHURCH AVE., BRADENTON BEACH

4 n Jan. 24, 2018 n THE ISLANDER

Anna Maria answers engineering questions about pier rebuild

By Bianca Benedí Islander Reporter Looking for more explanations about the Anna Maria City Pier rebuild? A Dec. 16, 2017, memo made public Jan. 12 from Ayres Associates, the firm contracted to engineer and rebuild the city pier, provides answers to Holmes Beach resident Nancy Deal, who posed questions about the pier project at a Dec. 4, 2017, city meeting. At the fact-finding meeting in December, Deal presented the city commission and Ayres Associates with 18 questions regarding the firm’s methods of inspecting the pier, assessing damage and determining a course of action. The city tasked Ayres Associates representative Jay Saxena to provide a response. In the December memo to the city, Saxena answered Deal’s questions: Deal asked if the pilings were driven into the sand until “refusal,” the point at which a piling can no longer be pushed any deeper. Saxena responded that Ayres Associates retained a geotechnical engineering consultant to “provide insight as to if the piles were driven to refusal.” Deal’s second question asked if pilings in a structure “like the pier” act in friction and tension. Saxena wrote that “depending on the loading combination, the piles … may resist applied loads through bending, positive or negative shaft resistance due induced shear stress along the interface of the pile and the soil … and mobilized end bearing.” Deal asked if all or some of the pilings failed. Saxena’s response indicated that not all have “visibly failed,” but many have, adding that soil conditions and current code requirements would be evaluated to learn more. Saxena also explained the evaluation would be

Workers Jan. 8 share the closed Anna Maria Island City Pier with birds. Islander Photo: Sandy Ambrogi

Jay Saxena, the Ayres project manager for the Anna Maria City Pier rebuild, addresses the Anna Maria City Commission Dec. 4, 2018. Islander Photo: Bianca Benedí

done before Ayres Associates could determine if it is possible to “remediate only those piles that failed.” No videos from divers are available, Saxena wrote. He also confirmed that both physical evidence and engineering judgment were used to create the structural report, and pilings had failed or been found “structurally deficient” above and below the water lines. Deal asked if pilings had been pulled out. Saxena wrote there are “indications some piles have been unseated.” Digging into the sand had not been conducted, he said, and there are locations where damage to piles was above the waterline. Saxena said there are no current plans to add a structure to the pier, and the pier is currently supportHe wrote that the load-bearing walls appeared to ing the structures on it, but it is not “performing as be “functioning adequately,” and acknowledged difdesigned” in supporting those structures. ferent permits would be needed for a repair plan compared to a replacement plan. More pier funding may come Anna Maria’s way He reiterated that permit applications were submitted to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and Florida The state may provide $750,000 to rebuild the ton, who serves as president of the Senate. Anna Maria City Pier. Murphy said he believes Galvano will support the Department of Environmental Protection, a question he answered at the Dec. 4 meeting. A bill in the Florida House introduced by state effort. Saxena said that although a cost-benefit analysis Rep. Jim Boyd, R-Bradenton, received unanimous The city received approval in December 2017 from approval Jan. 16 from the House Transportation and the Manatee County Tourist Development Council and had not been conducted on what materials would be Tourism Appropriations Subcommittee. Manatee Board of County Commissioners on an agree- used to rebuild the structure, it would be. To Deal’s question, “Was a cost benefit analysis The bill would provide $750,000 to rebuild the ment to match up to $1.5 million in expenses to rebuild completed to determine the most economical plan for pier. the pier. The legislation is now before the appropriations Other sources of funding being pursued include public safety?” Saxena responded: “Public safety is of greatest importance and is a committee, chaired by state Rep. Carlos Trujillo, the Federal Emergency Management Agency and the key criterion as to the approach being taken in the R-Collier. county beach concession fund. In December 2017, Anna Maria Mayor Dan Representatives for Galvano did not respond Jan. assessment of the current structure.” He said wood was “not necessarily” the best bang Murphy said the plan to rebuild the pier to achieve a 19 to requests for comment. Please see Pier Rebuild, next page 75-100 year life span would cost up to $4.5 million. — Bianca Benedí Murphy said the bill’s approval in the first of two subcommittees was “a great first step.” He said he thanked Boyd for his support. Murphy said the city’s paid lobbyist, Chip Case, WMFR administration building, 6417 Third Ave. talked to staff for state Sen. Bill Galvano, R-BradenAnna Maria City W., Bradenton, wmfr.org. • Jan. 25, 6 p.m., commission. Jan. 26 deadline nears to • Feb. 8, 6 p.m., commission. Manatee County • Feb. 13, 4 p.m., planning and zoning. • Feb. 1, 9 a.m., county commission (land use). request pier planks • Feb. 22, 6 p.m., commission. • Feb. 13, 9 a.m., county commission. The final day to request a pier plank from the Anna Anna Maria City Hall, 10005 Gulf Drive, 941Administration building, 1112 Manatee Ave. W., Maria City Pier is Friday, Jan. 26. 708-6130, cityofannamaria.com. Bradenton, 941-748-4501, mymanatee.org. Requests to retain sponsored planks should be emailed to piermemorialplanks@cityofannamaria.com Bradenton Beach Of interest or by calling 941-708-6130 no later than 4 p.m. Jan. • None announced. • Jan. 26, 9:30 a.m., DOT Barrier Islands Traffic 26. Bradenton Beach City Hall, 107 Gulf Drive N., Study Steering Committee, Longboat Island Chapel, Requests should include the plank sponsor’s name, 941-778-1005, cityofbradentonbeach.org. 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key. contact information and plank inscription. • Jan. 30, 4 p.m., Manatee County Council of Those who request planks will be notified when Holmes Beach governments. Bradenton Area Convention Center, the planks are available for pickup. • Feb. 5, 1 p.m., ad hoc committee on form of 1 Haben Blvd., Palmetto. The remaining planks will be used to create a government. • Feb. 12, 9 a.m., Manatee County Tourist Develmemorial fence at City Pier Park at the corner of Pine • Feb. 6, 10:30 a.m., contractor seminar. opment Council, county administration building. Avenue and North Bay Boulevard, and at the Anna • Feb. 7, 10 a.m., 6 p.m., planning commis• Feb. 12, 2 p.m., Island Transportation Planning Maria Island Historical Museum, 402 Pine Ave. sion. Organization, Anna Maria City Hall. City commissioners approved development of the • Feb. 13, 6 p.m., city commission. • Feb. 19 is Presidents Day, when most governmemorial fence comprising of pier planks at their Jan. • Feb. 15, 6 p.m., city commission. ment offices will be closed. 11 meeting. • Feb. 27, 6 p.m., city commission. • Feb. 26, 9:30 a.m., Sarasota/Manatee MetroThe planks will be replaced later this year, when Holmes Beach City Hall, 5801 Marina Drive, politan Planning Organization, Holiday Inn Sarathe city rebuilds the Anna Maria City Pier. In Sep941-708-5800, holmesbeachfl.org. sota-Bradenton International Airport, 8009 15th St. tember 2017, Hurricane Irma left the pier “totally E., Sarasota. destroyed,” according to the terms of the city lease West Manatee Fire Rescue Send notices to calendar@islander.org and with Mario Schoenfelder. • Feb. 20, 6 p.m., commission. news@islander.org. — Bianca Benedí

Meetings

THE ISLANDER n JAN. 24, 2018 n 5

Water taxi holdup: Bradenton Beach ﬂoating dock delays

tax dollars. Initially, representatives from dock contractor technomarine said they could begin work on the new dock in September 2017, after receiving the city’s deposit in August. However, a busy hurricane season delayed prog-

ress, and installation is now planned for February, according to technomarine. “the Bridge Street floating dock is the only thing holding us back now,” Baldwin said Jan. 19. “this is the last threshold we have to cross to get this thing done.”

Center receives $130,000, marketing demand

An anonymous donor contributed $130,000 in January to help bolster the Center of Anna Maria Island’s 2017-18 fiscal budget. At the center’s December board meeting, members learned the center was $126,811.41 in the red at the end of November 2017 for the fiscal year that began July 1. the losses for the previous two years were near $200,000. the donation will help to reduce the annual budget deficit. the $130,000 donation came with a stipulation that $30,000 be used to hire a development and marketing director. the remainder will fund programs and services,

according to executive director Kristen Lessig. “We have been working and meeting with the donor since last April,” Lessig said in a Jan. 19 text. the center’s next fundraising event will be the Murder Mystery Dinner theater scheduled for 7 p.m. Friday, Feb. 16, and Saturday, Feb. 17. this year’s Las Vegas-themed play, “What happens on the island … stays on the island,” includes a cash bar, live auctions, raffles and a VIP option. Last year’s dinner theater event drew a crowd, leading the center to re-position the event as a major fundraiser. — Bianca Benedí

Palma Sola Bay

Manatee Ave. W

75th St. W

Blv d.

34th Ave. W

ola

PieR ReBuild CONtINUeD FROM PAGe 4 for their buck, and sustainability would be considered in the design process. the answers, which were submitted Dec. 16 but provided as public record Jan. 12, may now be out of date. Since the memo was issued, Ayres Associates has collected soil samples that might provide answers to the question about whether the piles were driven to refusal.

Paradise Boat Tours of Bradenton Beach owner Sherman Baldwin says a 149passenger catamaran — resembling the manufacturer’s rendering here — is on order to shuttle passengers between Bradenton, the Historic Bridge Street Pier in Bradenton Beach and Sarasota. Islander Photo: Courtesy Sherman Baldwin

Pa lm aS

By ChrisAnn Silver esformes Islander Reporter Bradenton Beach is the hitch in the long-awaited water taxi. “One lesson I’ve learned is that this sort of thing is really a long-term project that takes years to develop correctly,” Capt. Sherman Baldwin, owner of Paradise Boat tours in Bradenton Beach said Jan. 3 regarding his delayed attempt to launch a water taxi service connecting Bradenton Beach to downtown Bradenton and sarasota. Plans for the water taxi were approved by the three cities in 2017, and Baldwin is ready to roll. the boat, a 149 passenger high-speed catamaran, is ready to launch, but will not be released by lenders until all three dock locations are cleared for use. Having secured a dock for arrivals and departures near downtown sarasota — the 10th street Boat Basin at Centennial Park — and the public dock near Riverwalk on the Manatee River in downtown Bradenton, Baldwin is just waiting on Bradenton Beach. Bradenton Beach and Baldwin are awaiting the installation of the new floating dock to load and unload passengers at the Historic Bridge Street Pier. the dock — a replacement for a previously damaged dock — was contracted by the Bradenton Beach Community Redevelopment Agency in March 2017 at a cost of $119,980 — half of which will be reimbursed to the city from Manatee County using tourist

Cortez Rd. W

6 n JAN. 24, 2018 n THE ISLANDER

Opinion

Our

The big chill

It seems Joe Bird’s terns are worried this week about global warming. Yes, it’s a scientific fact. And just because it’s chillier one week than all the winters you recall as a child, doesn’t mean the earth is not warming. Global warming is disturbing the weather, people, animals and sealife. It will eventually affect sea-rise on Anna Maria Island and all ground-level homes and waterfront residences will have impacts — yes, eventually — but there are more problems to navigate. Melting glaciers are contributing to sea-level rise. Heatwaves are more frequent worldwide, and increased evaporation is fuel for hurricanes. Rising sea levels will make storm surge a greater threat. the water temps in the oceans and the Gulf of Mexico are warmer, contributing to sea-level rise and stripping coral reefs of their color. Warmer fresh-water temps increase bacteria production and contaminate drinking water supplies. Climate change affects air quality, increasing ground-level ozone, which irritates lungs and triggers asthma attacks. And the habitat on land and in the Gulf of Mexico and all the seas is changing, becoming inhospitable to some species. the algae that nourish the sensitive coral reefs are stressed by heat and, as the algae leave, the corals starve and fish are affected. Our ecosystem is at risk. the cold-stunned sea turtle reported this week at the Rod & Reel Pier is not alone in its struggle. Many sea turtles are feeling the effects of the colder-thannormal temps — another extreme weather change. Stone crabs stop crawling when the water temp drops into the 50s and we know from an extreme snook kill several years ago, that the fishery can not survive in cold water. the chilling affect on fishing and crabbing trickles through the local economy. We need to acclimate to colder winters, and hotter spring, summer and fall temps. And we need to look for ways to curb global Musical tribute warming. One thing we can do right here, right now Anna Maria Island has a great mix of culture and is to limit fertilizer use on lawns, plants and trees. community. When you have the opportunity to live Go natural — or use natural products. For more ways to fight global warming, check out here, you become a part of its character. the last several weeks I have felt this community the environmental Defense Fund — edf.org. come together in a special way. My late partner, Robert — Bonner Joy Herman, and I enjoyed such a beautiful decade here. Playing and creating. exploring and entertaining. Falling in love and building a life together. I want to offer warm thanks to those in our community who reached out and offered their prayers and JAN. 24, 2018 • Vol. 26, No. 13 support. ▼ Publisher and Editor I sincerely felt the love of this island community. Bonner Joy, news@islander.org Please, join me for a live-music celebration of ▼ Editorial Robert’s life 1-5 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 28, at the Center of Lisa Neff, copy editor Sandy Ambrogi, sandy@islander.org Anna Maria Island, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria. Bianca Benedí, bianca@islander.org Here’s to leaving a legacy on Anna Maria Island. Joe Bird, editorial cartoonist Kevin Cassidy, kevin@islander.org See you there. Jack Elka, jack@jackelka.com Casey Hoffman, Bradenton Beach ChrisAnn Silver Esformes, chrisann@islander.org

Opinion

Your

▼

▼ ▼

▼

Terry O’Connor, terryo@islander.org Kathy Prucnell, kathyp@islander.org Ed Scott, edscott@islander.org Contributors Jesse Brisson Karen Riley-Love Capt. Danny Stasny, fish@islander.org Advertising Director Toni Lyon, toni@islander.org Office Staff Lisa Williams, manager Christi Burton accounting@islander.org classifieds@islander.org subscriptions@islander.org Distribution Urbane Bouchet Judy Loden Wasco Ross Roberts (All others: news@islander.org)

Single copies free. Quantities of ﬁve or more: 25 cents each. ©1992-2018 • Editorial, sales and production offices: 3218 E. Bay Drive, Holmes Beach FL 34217 WEBSITE: www.islander.org PHONE 941-778-7978 toll-free fax 1-866-362-9821

Emergency call

Neglect and a treehouse

the moral strength of capitalism comes from the respect for personal ownership and investment. the moral strength of a government comes from how well it provides equal protection under the law and due process. If a city commission in Florida allows itself to throw away its moral authority over a fancy treehouse, it could lead to other cities doing the same. there is a word for this: negligence. they neglected to inform the property owner of a permit process when they were asked. And now they neglect to protect their rights. And they neglect to protect your good name as a community. Also, your chamber of commerce seems strangely quiet as a member is mistreated. that seems negligent, too. If you continue to neglect each other this way, how will you treat visitors? Dennis Kerr, Omaha, Nebraska

I am a Bradenton Beach property owner since Read more opinions on the treehouse on pages 2, 3 in this edition and online at www.islander.org. 1980. On Christmas eve 2017, I made an emergency call to 911 for my husband. the response to my call Have your say was immediate and the eMts were helpful and profesthe Islander accepts original letters of up sional. to 250 words and reserves the right to edit for I want to publicly thank these outstanding respondgrammar and length. Letters must include name, ers for a job well done and most appreciated. address and a contact phone number (for verifiBarbara Bourjaily, Bradenton Beach cation). Anonymous letters will not be printed. email: news@islander.org. Readers also may comment on stories online, where the Islander has 2,500+ registered users. Also, the Islander has an active — 11,000+ likes — Facebook community. to join the conversation, “like” the Islander on Facebook. WWW.ISLANDER.ORG

THE ISLANDER n JAN. 24, 2018 n 7

Moose lodge long before the makeover

The Anna Maria Island Lodge 2188 of the Loyal Order of Moose formed in August 1935 and opened a gathering spot on Gulf Drive in Bradenton Beach. The lodge has undergone a major renovation and has one of the largest memberships in the country. This photo and many other historical images can be found in “Images of America: Anna Maria Island” by Islander publisher Bonner Joy. Islander Courtesy Photo

E-scrap collection set for Jan. 27 Are you ready to scrap it? the annual e-scrap and household hazardous waste collection will be Saturday, Jan. 27, at Coquina Beach Gulfside at the southern end of Bradenton Beach. People can enter Coquina Beach Gulfside and drive through a drop-off lane, leaving behind electronics, including computer hard drives and monitors, printers, copiers, televisions, cassette and DVD players, cellphones, stereos, hair dryers and toasters and more. e-scrap collectors also will accept household

hazard waste, such as paint and batteries. tires, large appliances and medical waste will not be accepted. Manatee County Utilities Department and island public works departments organize the event, which will be 9 a.m.-3 p.m. A goal is to put electronics and other materials into a recycling stream rather than the landfill. Some items may be refurbished for reuse and other items may be dismantled for parts and recycled. For more information, call the utilities department at 941-798-6761.

We’d love to mail you the news!

10&20 years ago In the headlines: Jan. 21, 1998

• A new shopping plaza was proposed for the old Anchorage-Fast eddie’s Restaurant property at the corner of Pine Avenue and South Bay Boulevard in Anna Maria. the developer planned 12 retail shops. • Authorities felt compelled to issue cautions about disturbing crab traps in the Gulf near the beach after local crabbers reported an increase in lost traps. the theory was people were taking the traps to decorate their homes.

In the headlines: Jan. 23, 2008

• Former islander Matt Borden appeared on an episode of the tV game show “Who Wants to Be a Millionaire” and won $25,000. • Fewer than 75 people attended a Florida Department of transportation public meeting on plans to rehabilitate the Anna Maria Island Bridge on Manatee Avenue. the DOt was readying a $9.1 million project. • A retired firefighter from Jersey City, New Jersey, donated a piece of steel from the World trade Center to the West Manatee Fire Rescue District for placement at a memorial to those who died responding to the terrorist attacks Sept. 11, 2001. • Islanders celebrated Florida Arbor Day with tree plantings in Anna Maria, Holmes Beach and Bradenton Beach. the holiday is observed the third Friday in January. • the Bradenton Beach Scenic WAVeS Committee debuted a “trolley Up” campaign to encourage more people to take the fare-free island trolley. the committee sought an endorsement from Manatee County for the effort.

YOUR COMPLETE CASUAL FURNITURE STORE

We mail The islander weekly for a nominal $54 per year. We also offer online e-edition subscriptions — a page-by-page view of the weekly news for only $36 per year, but you must sign up online. It’s the best way to stay in touch with what’s happening on Anna Maria Island. We bring you all the news about three city governments, community happenings, people features and special events … even real estate transactions … everything you need if your “heart is on Anna Maria Island.” If you don’t live here year-round, use this form to subscribe by (snail) mail for yourself or someone else. (Sorry, we do not suspend mail subscriptions — you get The Islander free while you’re here!)

BULK MAIL U.S. SUBSCRIPTION (allow 2 weeks for every week’s delivery) ❑ 1 year: $54

❑ 3-6 Months: $36

❑ 1-3 Months: $24

We offer Rattan and Wicker tropical-style indoor and outdoor furniture, for island and coastal looks.

U.S. FIRST CLASS AND CANADIAN MAIL SUBSCRIPTION ❑ 3-6 Months: $98 ❑ 1-3 Months: $54 ❑ 1 year: $160 ❑ Single Issue: $5 FIRST CLASS MAIL, U.S. ONLY, maximum four weeks MAIL TO: ______________________________________________________________ ADDRESS _____________________________________________________________ CITY ____________________________ STATE __________ ZIP _________________ Credit card: ❏ d

❏ u No.

___________________________________________

Name shown on card: _____________________________ Exp. Date ___________

UÊ iÀ V> >`iÊ ÕÀ ÌÕÀiÊÊUÊ ÕÃÌ Ê"À`iÀÃÊ7i V i UÊ > ÞÊ"Ü i`ÊEÊ"«iÀ>Ìi`ÊÊUÊ ` ÀÊEÊ"ÕÌ` ÀÊ7 V iÀ

Credit card billing address: ______________________________________________

SPECIAL ISLANDER OFFER!

MAIL START DATE: _____________________________________________________

THE BEST NEWS ON ANNA MARIA ISLAND — SINCE 1992

$50 OFF any purchase of $500 or more $100 OFF any purchase of $1,000 or more

3218 E. Bay Drive • Holmes Beach FL 34217

*WITH THIS AD. Not valid with any other offer or prior purchases. Expires 01-31-18

CHARGE BY PHONE 941.778.7978 ONLINE (secure server) www.islander.org E-MAIL subscriptions@islander.org

6807 14TH ST. W., BRADENTON (across from Alex Karras Lincoln)

VISIT OUR 8,000+ SF SHOWROOM {£ Çxx äÓÎxÊUÊÜÜÜ°yÊ À `> i> `«>Ì °V

8 n Jan. 24, 2018 n THE ISLANDER

Bradenton Beach resident fights variance, safety concerns

By ChrisAnn Silver Esformes Islander Reporter Bradenton Beach officials have shown concern for the growing number of large vacation homes built in the city in recent years. However, a variance approved by a special master in 2012 to move a home on a non-conforming lot closer to a neighboring property line — also on a non-conforming lot — could lead to the demise of the historic cottage and a new, larger home in its place. Jan Sallmen, owner of a 1949 cottage on 12th Street South, says the city’s decision to allow a homeowner to move a house west of her home 3 feet closer to her property amounts to a fire hazard and devalues her property. She said she was told in spring 2017 that the house east of her property on Gulf Drive South would be elevated to meet Federal Emergency Management Agency requirements, but was not informed the house would be moved closer to her property until December 2017. The variance allowed the house to be moved 6 feet from Sallmen’s adjoining property line. She said the owner, Chris Miller, sought approval to elevate the ground-level home but the city required the move to center the house on the non-conforming lot. “We feel the situation is unsafe and intolerable so we have listed (our home) for sale,” Sallmen wrote Bradenton Beach building official Steve Gilbert in a Jan. 2 email. Additionally, Sallmen wrote to the city, developers are interested in purchasing her property to build

tion is 5 feet from the property line and the distance after the move would be 6.1 feet from Sallmen’s property line. “As proposed, the structure complies with the code, which is statewide,” Gilbert wrote. However, Sallmen, who said she bought her house because of it’s “old Florida character,” plans to sell. “I don’t want to be forced to take legal action as the variance is inaccurate in findings of fact (since) it does create a public hazard and it is decreasing my property values as nobody but a developer wants it,” Sallmen wrote Gilbert. “Everyone recognizes the danger, except you.”

A house in the 1200 block of Gulf Drive South in Bradenton Beach is elevated and moved several feet from its foundation to the chagrin of neighbors who are concerned with the proximity of the house following the move. Islander Photos: ChrisAnn Silver Esformes a “large house with a pool” that will meet the building setbacks. In his Jan. 5 email response to Sallmen, Gilbert wrote that when the variance was approved by the special master in 2012, neighbors within 500 feet of the subject house were notified and they had 30 days to appeal the decision. No one did. Additionally, Gilbert wrote the minimum separa-

Island leaders push back on state rental legislation By Terry O’Connor Islander Reporter Island officials are up in arms over new vacation rental bills filed in the Legislature. “It’s ludicrous,” said Holmes Beach Mayor Bob Johnson. “The state has no ability to do any of that stuff effectively at all. They don’t do home inspections.” State Sen. Greg Steube, R-Sarasota, and state Rep. Mike La Rosa, R-St. Cloud, joined forces Jan. 16 on similar vacation rental legislation. Steube’s Senate Bill 1400, now mirrored by La Rosa’s House Bill 773, aims to protect private property Steube rights of vacation rental owners targeted by local regulations, according to the legislators. SB 1400 would give the state the ultimate authority over vacation rental properties.

DOT prepares for new AMI bridge

Anna Maria, Bradenton Beach and Holmes Beach have employed lobbyists to work against any further state limits on short-term rentals. Holmes Beach Commissioner Jim Kihm, newly appointed liaison to the Johnson Legislature, said local governments could make better decisions than the Legislature when it comes to rental ordinances. “One size doesn’t fit all,” Kihm said. “Those decisions should be made on the local level.” Kihm A similar bill offered by Steube a year ago was defeated. Steube claims local attempts to restrict or ban vacation rentals violate Florida law. “It is extremely disconcerting to hear stories from my constituents and other homeowners from across the state who are being targeted by their very own

Joseph Erickson and Brian Battle dock at the Kingfish Boat Ramp, 752 Manatee Ave., Holmes Beach, after gathering soil samples for the Florida Department of Transportation in advance of a planned 65-foot-high fixed-span Anna Maria Island Bridge. The workers were boring in the Intracoastal Waterway to determine pier locations, according to DOT communications specialist JoAnn May. Construction of the $114.5 million bridge is not in the state’s budget even though the design phase has begun. In a Jan. 17 email, May said the new bridge design is expected by the summer of 2022. Islander Photo: Kathy Prucnell

Jan Sallmen, a resident of 12th Street South in Bradenton Beach, points Jan. 4 to a house adjacent to hers, that has been elevated and moved several feet closer to her property line. local officials for choosing to rent out their homes,” said Steube in a statement. “I believe this is nothing more than an effort by the hotel industry to put an end to vacation rentals, which are a vital part of Florida’s tourism economy.” SB 1400 would require vacation rental property owners to obtain a state license, treat vacation rentals as transient rentals regarding certain tax, landlord and tenant provisions and require the division to inspect vacation rentals in emergencies or epidemiological conditions. “I believe that all private property owners should be treated equally, regardless of whether they choose to rent out their homes for one day, one month or one year,” stated La Rosa. “Vacation rentals reflect both an industry and a travel experience that has existed in Florida for decades — long before popular online platforms, such as Airbnb and HomeAway, even existed. Vacation rentals give property owners a chance to earn additional income while driving tourists to local businesses in the community.” The Florida Vacation Rental Management Association, members of the Airbnb host community, and HomeAway and its homeowners went to Tallahassee to lobby Jan. 16 for SB 1400 and HB 773. According to a 2013 economic impact study commissioned by the association, vacation rentals infused more than $31.1 billion into the state economy from an estimated 17 million visitors. Florida’s vacation rental industry supports more than 320,000 jobs annually, generating more than $12 billion a year in income, according to Visit Florida, the state’s tourism marketing organization. The bills would become law July 1 if passed by the Legislature and signed by the governor. Johnson said the legislation is doomed to failure. “I don’t know how they would implement it,” Johnson said. “They certainly won’t do it proactively. I don’t know how they would even make it work with all the variances in municipalities. We’re not the same as Sarasota or Bradenton.”

THE ISLANDER n JAN. 24, 2018 n 9

GP • ID103_M5 • 012518 WEEKLY PUB ROP 10x15.5 • GONE

SHOP SAVINGS THROUGHOUT THE STORE & AT BEALLSFLORIDA.COM

EXTRA

SAVINGS PASS

OFF

your purchase

SALE, REGULAR & CLEARANCE MERCHANDISE

THURSDAY-SATURDAY, JANUARY 25-27, 2018 Use promo code BEACHYKEEN on BeallsFlorida.com Savings Pass valid for use on a qualifying merchandise purchase in Bealls Stores, by phone at 800-569-9038, on Click & Find® kiosks and on BeallsFlorida.com only. Savings Pass must be presented at time of purchase. Limit one (1) Savings Pass per purchase. Cannot be applied to prior purchases, gift card purchases, existing Bealls Florida credit balances, taxes, or shipping charges and cannot be used with Employee Discount or any other offer. Dollar-off discounts will be applied before any percent-off total purchase discounts. Savings Pass is applied to qualifying items on a prorated basis; returns will be credited at the return price on your receipt. EXCLUSIONS: Bealls Extreme Values, Bealls Outstanding Buys, Cobian®, Columbia, Hook & Tackle®, Huk™, Levi’s®, Life Is Good®, Melissa & Doug®, Natural Life®, Nite Ize®, Nike®, Nomad™, Oscar Mike®, Pelagic®, Reef®, Sakroots®, Sawyer®, Simply Southern®, Suncloud®, Under Armour®, Vionic® and other brands listed at BeallsFlorida.com/exclusions. Not valid at Bealls Outlet. Bealls Stores & BeallsFlorida.com are operated by Bealls Stores, Inc. and Beall’s Westgate Corporation. SP01

2 DAYS ONLY!

SUNDAY & MONDAY, JANUARY 28 & 29, 2018

EXTRA

OFF

ANY ONE REGULAR OR SALE PRICED ITEM

Excludes Bealls Extreme Values, Bealls Outstanding Buys, clearance & select brands.

Rewards®

Earn a $5 Reward for Enrolling!†

• $1 = 2 points when you use your Bealls Florida Credit Card†† • $1 = 1 point when you use any other form of payment • $5 Reward for every 200 points (up to a max of $50 in a month)

Coupon valid for one time use on a qualifying purchase in Bealls Stores only. Coupon must be presented & surrendered at time of purchase. Limit one (1) coupon per guest per day. Cannot be applied to clearance merchandise, prior purchases, gift card purchases, existing Bealls Florida credit balances, taxes, or shipping charges and cannot be used with Employee Discount or any other offer. Dollar-off discounts will be applied before any percent-off total purchase discounts. Coupon is applied to qualifying items on a prorated basis; returns will be credited at the return price on your receipt. EXCLUSIONS: Bealls Extreme Values, Bealls Outstanding Buys, Cobian®, Columbia, Hook & Tackle®, Huk™, Levi’s®, Life Is Good®, Melissa & Doug®, Natural Life®, Nite Ize®, Nike®, Nomad™, Oscar Mike®, Pelagic®, Reef®, Sakroots®, Sawyer®, Simply Southern®, Suncloud®, Under Armour®, Vionic® and other brands listed at BeallsFlorida. com/exclusions. Not valid at Bealls Outlet, on Click & Find® Kiosks or BeallsFlorida. com. Bealls Stores & BeallsFlorida.com are operated by Bealls Stores, Inc. and Beall’s Westgate Corporation. CP07

† Receive 200 points for joining Coast2Coast Rewards®. † † Subject to credit approval. Comenity Bank issues the Bealls Florida Credit Card. This Program is NOT affiliated with or related to the Bealls Outlet Rewards Program in any way. Coast2Coast Rewards® program is provided by Bealls Stores, Inc. which is solely responsible for the Program operation. Bealls Stores, Inc. may change the terms of the Program at any time. For full Rewards Terms and Conditions, please visit www.beallsflorida.com/online/rewards.

10 bealls buck$

GET $

FOR EVERY $50 YOU SPEND

Receive $10 Bealls Bucks (January 24 & 25, 2018) when you make a qualifying merchandise purchase of $50 or more (before taxes) in Bealls Stores only. Maximum of $120 Bealls Bucks awarded per guest. Bealls Bucks have no cash value and can be redeemed in-store (January 26 & 27, 2018) only at Bealls Stores. Bealls Bucks must be presented and surrendered at time of purchase; any remaining balance will be forfeited. Bealls Bucks cannot be earned on purchases of gift cards or applied to prior purchases, gift cards, taxes or existing Bealls Florida credit balances. Bealls Bucks will be applied before any percent off total purchase discounts. Offer cannot be earned or combined with Employee discount. OP12

Go to BeallsFlorida.com for hours & locations. Bealls Stores & BeallsFlorida.com are operated by Bealls Stores, Inc. and Beall’s Westgate Corporation. GE01

Island happenings 40% OFF

10 n JAN. 24, 2018 n THE ISLANDER

WATCH BANDS • WATCH BATTERIES • SERVICE/REPAIRS

A Songeaters concert will be at 4 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 28, at Roser Memorial Community Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Islander Courtesy Photo

All pre-owned ROLEX!

Ladies and Gents -- 2-year service warranty, box and papers

33 YEARS IN BRADENTON! 8110 CORTEZ RD. W. Tue-Fri 10-4, Sat 10-2 • ATM & CCs • 941-798-9585

Sweet Adelines Show Featuring Humdingers” Featuring ““Signature” Men’s Barbershop Quartet 2016 International Men’s Quartet 3 PM February 3 pmSaturday, Saturday, Feb. 11 10 $15 (cash or check)

NEW VENUE: Bayshore High School Theatre 5401 34th Street West, Bradenton

756-3047 “Anna Maria Island,” a pictorial history book of the island by Bonner Joy, is available for $20 at The Islander office, 3218 E. Bay Drive, Holmes Beach. Joy is publisher of The Islander newspaper. She launched the newspaper in 1992, and is a 42-year islander.

Roser concert series begins Jan. 28

Roser Memorial Community Church opens its seasonal concert series at 4 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 28. the performance will feature mezzo-soprano thea Lobo and pianist eunmi Ko as the Songeaters. the Songeaters is described as “a voice-piano duo offering a new look at art song. … Songeaters produces programs that threat together a diverse repertoire based on story and text theme.” the concert will be at the church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Additional concerts will be at 4 p.m. Sundays, Feb. 18, and March 11. For more information, call the church at 941-7780414.

Artists’ Guild gathers to discuss supplies

AMI SUN - BW AD 2X2.5 the Artists’ Guild of Anna Maria Island will hold its monthly meeting Monday, Feb. 5, at the episco138614 01-18-17 SHAWN eds pal Church of the Annunciation, 4408 Gulf Drive in Signature ISLANDER gifts

NEW! Mugs, $10 each. All-cotton AMI tote bags, $5. Plus white and tie-dye “More-Than-a-MulletWrapper” T-shirts, $10-$15, and AMI stickers, $2. Come shop at 3218 E. Bay Drive, Holmes Beach, sandwiched between Walgreens and the bagel cafe!

AMI Chamber of Commerce 2017 Best Business of the Year

full service salon and spa oﬀering… Hair ~ Nails ~ Massage ~ Facials Acupuncture ~ Body Treatments ~ Bikini and Brazilian Waxing ~ 3612 E. Bay Drive, Holmes Beach, 941.778.0400 313 Pine Ave, Anna Maria, 941.778.0500

.

Holmes Beach. the program will include a talk by salesman Mike Grecian about art supplies. the meeting will begin at 7 p.m. A meet-and-greet will be at 6:30 p.m. For more information, call the Guild Gallery at 941-778-6694.

Dairy Staters bound for Wisconsin Day at for St. B

Kiwanis to meet

the Kiwanis Club of Anna Maria Island will gather Saturday, Jan. 27, for a wellness program focused on balance. the guest speaker will be Ana GuillermoSantiago of H2U/Health to You. the program will be at 8:30 a.m. at the Anna Maria Island Beach Cafe at the Manatee Public Beach, 4000 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. Club members and guests will gather for breakfast at 8 a.m. For more information, call Sandy Haas-Martens at 941-778-1383.

Library presents ‘Barcelona and Modernism’

the Island Library will host Catalan architect Antoni Gaudi presenting an art history workshop Friday, Jan. 26. the program, 2-4 p.m., is titled “Barcelona and Modernism.” During the workshop, attendees will create a piece of art “in homage to any one of many great Catalonian artists.” Registration is required. the library is at 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. For more information, call the library at 941-7786341.

Senior Adventures host potluck, book sale

St. Bernard Catholic Church once again is the site of the annual Wisconsin Day, which will take place Senior Adventures will hold a potluck lunch Wednesday, Feb. 7. and book sale Friday, Jan. 26. the celebration of all things Wisconsin will take the sale will be 10 a.m.-1 p.m. at the Annie place in the church activity hall, 248 S. Harbor Drive, Silver Community Center, 103 23rd St. N., BraHolmes Beach, beginning with registration at 10 denton Beach. Lunch will be at noon. a.m. Senior Adventures is a group of older adults the event — held annually since 1957 — lasts that meets most Fridays for an adventure — an until about 2:30 p.m. outing or a gathering at Annie Silver Community Wisconsinites — and their fans — are encouraged Center. to bring a dish to share that could serve eight adults, For more information or to RSVP, call Kaye as well as their own tableware. An announcement said Bell at 941-538-0945. hot dishes are most needed. Plans include live polka music, door prizes and a Football fans called to chapel 50-50 raffle. the fee to attend is $5. the Longboat Island Chapel will host a Super For more information, call Joy Sujecki at 941-708- Bowl lunch following the 10 a.m. worship service 0149. Sunday, Feb. 4. the party will be in Shook Fellowship Hall at the chapel, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key. the menu includes hot dogs and “tailgating treats.” For more information, call the chapel at 941-3836491.

Learn pine-cone quilting

The Folk School at Florida Maritime Museum will offer classes in pine-cone quilting beginning at 10 a.m. Thursday, Feb. 8. The fee for the classes, taught by Betty Ford-Smith, is $35. Additional sessions will be Feb. 15 and Feb. 22. The museum is at 4415 119th St. W., Cortez. For more, call 941-708-6120.

Island happenings

THE ISLANDER n JAN. 24, 2018 n 11

Studio seeks work for ‘A Plein Air Affair’

the Studio at Gulf and Pine is accepting submissions for the juried exhibit “A Plein Air Affair,” which opens Wednesday, Feb. 7. Art work can be submitted 1-4 p.m. Monday, Feb. 5. An announcement said, “All artwork must have been executed outdoors on location in Florida during the past three years in watercolors, oil, acrylic or pastel.” Island artist Cory Wright will jury the show, at which more than $500 in prize money will be presented to artists. A reception will be 6-8 p.m. thursday, Feb. 15. the studio is at 10101 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria. For more information, call the gallery at 941-7781906.

Center calling bingo

the Center of Anna Maria Island is hosting bingo games the second and fourth Fridays of the month The Studio at Gulf and Pine is accepting submisthrough March. sions for the juried exhibit “A Plein Air Affair,” Games will begin at 6 p.m. Jan. 26, Feb. 9, Feb. which opens Wednesday, Feb. 7. Islander Courtesy 23, March 9 and March 23 at the center, 407 Magnolia Photo Ave., Anna Maria. the cost is $10 for 10 cards. the center will be selling and “renting” blotters Center selling tickets for for $1, as well as offering wine, beer and other refreshmurder-mystery night ments. the Center of Anna Maria Island is selling tickets For more information, call the center at 941-778to its 10th annual murder-mystery production, which 1908. will be staged Feb. 16 and Feb. 17 in the center gym. the Vegas-themed play is titled “What Happens Anna Maria’s weekly movie on the Island … Stays on the Island” — an adult-rated production. night starts, again An announcement said the play is set on the island, the forecast for cold and wind caused the city taking place on the opening night of the Hard Rock of Anna Maria to cancel its first weekly movie Anna Maria, a casino owned by Mr. Big, an island night. mob boss with a reputation for making problems and the city will try again Wednesday, Jan. 24, people disappear. to light up the big outdoor screen at 7 p.m. with the cast includes Don Purvis, Mike Shaughnessy, “Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade,” a 1989 Monica Simpson, Will Schenerlein, Caleb Roberts, action film starring Harrison Ford. Ray Gardner, tim Shaughnessy, Brianna Roberts, the city of Anna Maria invites people to Leah Purvis, Jillian Cacchiotti, erin Heckler and Keith bring blankets and picnic chairs to watch a weekly leathem. fi lm Wednesdays at 7 p.m. in City Pier Park at Writers and co-directors Beth Shaughnessy and the corner of Pine Avenue and North Bay Bouledaughter Brianna Roberts are planning different vard. endings for the Friday and Saturday mystery perforthe city will show a family-friendly movie mances. every for attendees. Doors will open at 7 p.m., and each show will start the Jan. 31 film will be “Dolphin tale.” at 7:30 p.m. the city will reschedule a viewing of “Smurfs: A ticket is $45 and includes dinner and the show. the Lost Village.” the center also will offer a cash bar, live auction Mayor Dan Murphy received city commission sales and raffles. Admission to a VIP pre-show party approval for the initiative Jan. 5 as part of a larger with the cast will cost $15. effort to increase visitors to the businesses on Pine Sponsorships are still available. Avenue. For more information, contact the center at 941— Bianca Benedí 778-1908.

Click!

the Islander welcomes news of the milestones in readers’ lives — weddings, anniversaries, travels and other events. Send notices and photographs, along with a contact to news@islander.org.

Paintings - pottery - mixed media - photography - jewelry - unique gifts - cards Visit us online anytime at islandgallerywest.com

Perfect Touch EMBROIDERY! Purses • Bags • Clothing • Towels • Cups • Koozies & Marketing Materials Apparel & Accessory SHOP. Island Shopping Center 5400 Marina Drive at the Holmes Beach laundromat 941-705-4603 • yptapparel.com

$10 DINER MUGS

@ The Islander, 3218 E. Bay Drive, HB

Take some AMI home! We have Islander coffee mugs! All-cotton AMI shopping totes! More-than-a-mullet-wrapper T-shirts! And $2 AMI stickers! GET YOURS @ The Islander, 3218 E. Bay Drive, Holmes Beach

Calendar listings

Send announcements for the calendar to calendar@islander.org. the deadline for listings is the Wednesday before the publication date. Please include a contact phone number for publication.

Under New Ownership! Ali Severson Hair.Skin.Nails.Massage Open 6 days a week www.acquaaveda.com 941.778.5400 need a good laugh? visit the emerson quillin signature store. humor, art, gifts 317 Pine Ave., Anna Maria • www.emersonshumor.com

5311 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach

12 n JAN. 24, 2018 n THE ISLANDER

The Islander Calendar ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

ents “Past to Present Photography,” 5312 Holmes Blvd., Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-2099. • Through Jan. 28, Island Players present “Beyond a Joke,” 8 ON ANNA MARIA ISLAND p.m. Tuesday-Saturday and 2 p.m. Sunday, 10009 Gulf Drive, Anna Wednesday, Jan. 24 Maria. Fee applies. Information: 941-778-5755. 12:30-3:30 p.m. — Meet the author opportunity with Cathy • Through Feb. 4, Artists’ Guild of Anna Maria Island exhibit, Slusser, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Informa- “Dialogue of an Artist,” Studio at Gulf and Pine, 10101 Gulf Drive, tion: 941-778-6341. Anna Maria. Information: 941-778-6694. 1 p.m. — Lifelong Learning lecture, Jim Vartuli, “When SciLOOKING AHEAD ON AMI ence Fails Us,” Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Feb. 9, ArtWalk, Holmes Beach. Feb. 16-17, Center of Anna Information: 941-778-6341. Maria Island Murder Mystery dinner and show, Anna Maria. Feb. Thursday, Jan. 25 1-3 p.m. — Meet the author with Patricia Gussin, author of 18, Roser Memorial Community Church concert, Anna Maria. March “Come Home,” Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. 8-25, Island Players’ “The Curious Savage,” Anna Maria. March 9, ArtWalk, Holmes Beach. March 10-11, Anna Maria Island Art League Information: 941-778-6341. 2 p.m. — Friends of the Island Library lecture with Sally Snow- Springfest juried arts and crafts festival, Holmes Beach. March 11, man on “The Boston Light Keeper,” Island Library, 5701 Marina Roser Memorial Community Church concert, Anna Maria. March 25, Roser Church concert. March 17, Center of Anna Maria Island Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341. Tour of Homes. April 13, ArtWalk, Holmes Beach. May 3-13, Island Friday, Jan. 26 2 p.m. — Art history workshop on Barcelona and Modernism, Players’ “An Inspector Calls,” Anna Maria. Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941LOOKING AHEAD OFF AMI 778-6341. Feb. 17, Manatee Community Concert Band Broadway conTuesday, Jan. 30 2 p.m. — Florida Maritime Museum lecture, Island Library, 5701 cert, Bradenton. Feb. 17-18, Florida Institute for Saltwater Heritage’s Cortez Commercial Fishing Festival, Cortez. Feb. 25, Anna Maria Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341. Island Concert Chorus and Orchestra Broadway and Beyond conSaturday, Jan. 27 10:30 a.m. — Pastels demonstration with Candace Bennington, cert, Bradenton. March 25, Anna Maria Island Concert Chorus and Island Gallery West, 5368 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: Orchestra Opera Concert, Bradenton. April 8, Sea to Shore Alliance cocktail party, Bradenton. 941-778-6648. Sunday, Jan. 28 KIDS & FAMILY 4 p.m. — Roser Memorial Community Church concert, 512 ON ANNA MARIA ISLAND Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Information: 941-778-0414.

Fellowship, 8605 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. Info: 941-778-0719. • Tuesdays, 3:15 p.m., after-school children’s choir, Roser Memorial Community Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Information: 941-778-0414. • Third Tuesdays, 10 a.m., Winter Time Turtle Talks with Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring, Waterline Marina Resort and Beach Club, 5325 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-5638. • Terriﬁc Tuesdays for community and families, 5:30 p.m., Roser Memorial Community Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Information: 941-778-0414.

GAMES, SPORTS & OUTDOORS ON ANNA MARIA ISLAND Wednesday, Jan. 24 4 p.m. — Chess club, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341. ONGOING ON ANNA MARIA ISLAND

• Wednesdays and Saturdays, 9 a.m., horseshoes pitched, Anna Maria City Hall, 10005 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria. Information: 941-708-6130. • Thursdays, 7-9 p.m., through March 29, Annie Silver Community Center bingo games, 103 23rd St. N., Bradenton Beach. Fee applies. Information: 941-778-3580. • Fridays, usually at 1 p.m., mahjong games, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341. • Second and fourth Fridays, 6 p.m., Center of Anna Maria Island bingo games, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria. Fee applies. Information: 941-778-1908. • Mondays, noon, bridge, Roser Memorial Community Church, ONGOING ON ANNA MARIA ISLAND Friday, Jan. 26 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Information: 941-778-0414. 10 a.m. — Forty Carrots parenting program, Island Library, • Tuesdays, 12:15 p.m., duplicate bridge, Episcopal Church • Throughout January, Marlane Wurzbach exhibits her artwork 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341. of the Annunciation, 4408 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: in “New Horizons,” Island Gallery West, 5368 Gulf Drive, Holmes Tuesday, Jan. 30 941-779-0881. Beach. Information: 941-778-6648. 10 a.m. — Preschool Storytime, Island Library, 5701 Marina OFF ANNA MARIA ISLAND • Throughout January, Artists’ Guild Gallery exhibits the work Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341. of Mariarosa and Roger Rockefeller, 5414 Marina Drive, Holmes ONGOING ON AMI Saturday, Jan. 27 Beach. Information: 941-778-6694. 8:30 a.m.. — Manatee Audubon Society birding tour, Perico • Throughout January, the Anna Maria Island Art League pres• Wednesdays, 5:30 p.m., Wednesday Night Blast, CrossPointe Preserve, 11700 Manatee Ave. W., Perico Island. Information: 941742-5923. Exhibiting now 9-11 a.m. — Naturalist-led wagon tour, Robinson Preserve, Cortez artist Susanna 1704 99th St. NW, Bradenton. Information: 941-748-4501. Spann won best of show for Tuesday, Jan. 30 her watercolor “Dianna 8 a.m. — Manatee Audubon Society birding tour, Robinson Prein Wonderland” at the serve, 1704 99th St. NW, Bradenton. Information: 941-748-4501. juried show presented by

the Artists’ Guild of Anna Maria Island at the Studio at Gulf and Pine, 10101 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria. The exhibit continues through Feb. 4. Spann also won a third-place award for her painting “Temple Cat from Cambodia” at the Art Center Manatee members’ exhibition, which is on display through Feb. 16 at the gallery, 209 Ninth St. W., Bradenton. Islander Courtesy Photo

ONGOING OFF ANNA MARIA ISLAND

• First and third Wednesdays usually, Roser Memorial Community Church Golﬁng for God, IMG Academy Golf Club, 4350 El Conquistador Parkway, Bradenton. Fee applies. Info: 941-778-0414. • Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays, 1-4 p.m., ACBL Open Pairs Duplicate Bridge, The Paradise Center, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key. Fee apples. Information: 941-216-9600. LOOKING AHEAD OFF AMI Feb. 24, Pittsburgh Pirates spring training home opener, Bradenton. April 4, Rotary Club of Anna Maria Island golf tournament, Bradenton.

CLUBS & COMMUNITY

THE ISLANDER n JAN. 24, 2018 n 13

Bradenton Beach. Information: 941-779-1416.

ON ANNA MARIA ISLAND Thursday, Jan. 25 10 a.m. — Quilting club, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341. Friday, Jan. 26 10 a.m.-1 p.m. — Senior Adventures monthly book sale and potluck, 103 23rd St. N., Bradenton Beach. Information: 941-5380945. Saturday, Jan. 27 9 a.m. — CPR training, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341.

LOOKING AHEAD ON AMI

Key. Feb. 12, Christ Church of Longboat Key Women’s Wellness Day, Longboat Key.

GOOD TO KNOW Feb. 5, Artists’ Guild of Anna Maria Island meeting, Holmes Beach. Feb. 7, Wisconsin Day, Holmes Beach. Feb. 9, Annie Silver SAVE THE DATES Community Center chicken dinner, Bradenton Beach. Feb. 10, Anna • Tuesday, Feb. 13, fat Tuesday. Maria Island Privateers Thieves Market, Bradenton Beach. Feb. • Wednesday, Feb. 14, Valentine’s Day. 15-17, Friends of the Island Library annual book sale, Anna Maria. • Monday, Feb. 19, Presidents Day. Feb. 16-17, Episcopal Church of the Annunciation white elephant • Sunday, April 1, Easter. sale, Holmes Beach. March 3, Anna Maria Island Historical Society Heritage Day Festival, Anna Maria. March 10, Anna Maria Island GET LISTED Privateers Thieves Market, Bradenton Beach. March 16, Annie Silver Send announcements for The Islander’s calendar to calendar@ Community Center ﬁsh fry dinner, Bradenton Beach. March 21, Anna islander.org. The deadline for listings is the Wednesday before the ONGOING ON ANNA MARIA ISLAND Maria Island Garden Club Penny Flower Show, Anna Maria. April publication date. Please include the date, time, location and descrip• Wednesdays, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Anna Maria Island Historical 18, Anna Maria Island Garden Club Fashion Show, Anna Maria. tion of the event, as well as a phone number for publication. Society sales of Settlers Bread, 402 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Fee OFF ANNA MARIA ISLAND GOOD DEEDS applies. Information: 941-778-0492. • Second and fourth Wednesdays, 11 a.m. Just Older Youth/ Sunday, Jan. 28 VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES JOY Brown Bag Lunch Series, Roser Memorial Community Church, 5:30 p.m. — Peace, Love and Paradise Gala to beneﬁt ParaLooking for volunteer opportunities on or around Anna Maria 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Information: 941-778-0414. dise Center, Longboat Key Club, Harbourside Ballroom, 3000 Har• Thursdays, 9 a.m.-noon, Manatee County Veteran Services bourside Drive, Longboat Key. Fee applies. Information: 941-383- Island? These organizations are seeking help: • The Roser Food Bank needs donations of cash and nonperDivisions counseling and assistance, Island Library, 5701 Marina 6493. ishable food. The pantry is administered by Roser Memorial ComDrive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341. ONGOING OFF ANNA MARIA ISLAND munity Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Information: 941-778• Third Thursdays, 11:45 a.m., Successful Women Aligning Together meets, Bridge Street Bistro, 111 Gulf Drive S., Bradenton • Second Wednesdays during season, Off Stage Ladies meet- 0414. • Moonracer Animal Rescue seeks volunteers to offer foster and Beach. Fee applies. Information: 941-345-5135. ing and luncheon, various venues, Bradenton. Information: 941-932forever homes for rescued animals. Information: 941-345-2441. • Fridays, Senior Adventures usually meets to carpool on an 2798. Looking for volunteers for an organization or an event? Email adventure or for an activity, Annie Silver Community Center, 103 LOOKING AHEAD OFF AMI calendar@islander.org with the details. Please include a contact 23rd St. N., Bradenton Beach. Information: 941-538-0945. Feb. 4, Longboat Island Chapel Super Bowl party, Longboat name and phone number. • Saturdays, 8:30 a.m., Kiwanis Club of Anna Maria Island breakfast meeting, Anna Maria Island Beach Cafe, 4000 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-1383. • Tuesdays, noon, Rotary Club of Anna Maria Island, Bridge The Anna Street Bistro, 111 Gulf Drive S., Bradenton Beach. Information: 941Maria 518-1965. the Anna Maria Island Art League is accepting Island Art • Tuesdays, 1-3 p.m., through March, Anna Maria Island Irish submissions for the 24th annual James Pay exhibit, League Ceili dance social, Sandpiper Mobile Resort, 2601 Gulf Drive N.,

Art submissions sought for James Pay Exhibit

Bridge Street hosts art show

Work created for the Bridge Street Merchants’ Seahorse Public Art Project, launched during artsHOP last fall, will be on display thursday, Jan. 25, through Feb. 25 in the Bradenton Beach commercial district. Artists created their own work on seahorse templates. earlier this month, more than 60 artists donated seahorses to the Bridge Street Merchants for a “walkable” art show at participating businesses Jan. 25. the public is encouraged to vote with cash contributions for their favorite seahorses to raise money for Mote Marine Laboratory in Sarasota. the creations will be offered Jan. 25-Feb. 25 in an online silent auction, with the artists sharing the proceeds with BSM, which will use the money for annual events.

which celebrates an AMIAL founder. the theme of the show is “Appreciation and Celebration of the Human Form” and AMIAL will present its first exhibit of nude works of art. Work can be submitted 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays by Feb. 2 at 5312 Holmes Blvd., Holmes Beach. A news release stated, “this carefully curated … show will be juried and will feature a special exhibit by Richard thomas in the art league’s foyer.” the opening reception, which coincides with the downtown Holmes Beach ArtWalk, will be 5:307:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 9. the exhibit will continue through March 2. For more information, call gallery assistant Fran Sansbury at 941-778-2099.

Relax ••

• • •

•

• •

•

• •

interiors inspired by the sea

• • •

••••

• •

•• • •

• •

•

Holistic wellness center and spa

Now oﬀering yoga and meditation in the ambiance of a healing Himalayan salt wall. Massage Therapy | Acupuncture | Yoga 2219 Gulf Drive N | Bradenton Beach

941.778.8400 | www.alunawellness.com

Kitchen & Bath Remodeling Interior Design Services 3D Architectural Drawings Custom & Semi Custom Cabinetry Granite & Quartz Countertops Tile, Flooring & Lighting our Coastal Boutique! NewVisit Merchandise Just Arrived 20% OFF toHome our Décor Coastal Boutique Sale Ends January 17th 8615 Cortez Road West . Bradenton (Near 86th Street West/Palma Sola Blvd.) (941) 242-2926 www.coastalife.com

will exhibit work by island artist Richard Thomas in February. Islander Courtesy Photo

14 n Jan. 24, 2018 n THE ISLANDER

ITPO members chart 2018 roadwork course

By Terry O’Connor Islander Reporter The Island Transportation Planning Organization knows where it wants to go in 2018. The question is: Can it get there? There are three dominate issues facing the ITPO: concluding the barrier island traffic study, nudging the Florida Department of Transportation to tend to the three bridges connecting Anna Maria Island to the mainland and Longboat Key, and securing $720,000 of county beach concession funds from the Manatee County Board of Commissioners. The ITPO is chartered under the Sarasota/Manatee Metropolitan Planning Organization and one of the three members — Anna Maria Mayor Dan Murphy, Bradenton Beach Mayor John Chappie and Holmes Beach Mayor Bob Johnson — rotates in the ITPO’s MPO seat and votes with the board. The three mayors again expressed reservation about the traffic study at their Jan. 19 meeting in Anna Maria. Johnson said the traffic study steering committee meetings have been “pretty uninformative and lacking in structure and feedback.” The study is intended to improve traffic flow and parking from Anna Maria southward through Lido Key. He did praise the DOT for allowing “very open and frank discussion.”

Johnson expressed hope the next DOT meeting on the study would be more informative. It will begin at 9:30 a.m. Friday, Jan. 26, at Longboat Island Chapel, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key. Murphy asked why most traffic study meetings have been held on Longboat Key. “It’s an island traffic study and it includes this island,” Murphy said. “It seems like all the DOT meetings are held in Longboat Key. It’s not just a Longboat Key study.” Jesten Abraham of the DOT said he would suggest holding more northern meetings. Abraham also warned ITPO members that motorists will experience delays from Longboat Key Bridge maintenance from 9 p.m.-4 a.m. Jan. 28-Feb. 1. Chappie wanted more details about the bridge connecting Bradenton Beach with Longboat Key. “I heard that bridge is in worse shape than the other two island bridges,” he said. Abraham assured Chappie the bridge needs only routine maintenance. There’s still no word on the concession funds. A total of $390,00 of the $720,000 request is for an island bike trail and pedestrian path improvements, and $330,000 is requested for the rebuild of the Anna Maria City Pier. Manatee County collects funds from beach concessionaires: Anna Maria Island Beach Cafe, 4000

Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, and Coquina Beach Cafe, 2650 Gulf Drive S., Bradenton Beach. Collections have topped $1 million in the past two years above the county’s budgeted spending. Projects submitted for funding are approved unanimously by the ITPO and must benefit all island cities. The ITPO will meet next at 2 p.m. Monday, Feb. 12, at Anna Maria City Hall, 10005 Gulf Drive.

Sarasota/Manatee MPO sets 2018 schedule

The Sarasota/Manatee Metropolitan Planning Organization is meeting at least seven times in 2018. The MPO was to meet at 9 a.m. Monday, Jan. 22, in the community center, 326 Nokomis Ave., Venice, in a joint meeting with the Charlotte County-Punta Gorda MPO. The six remaining MPO meetings will convene at the Holiday Inn, 8009 15th St. E., Sarasota. The meetings will begin at 9:30 a.m. Monday, Feb. 26, April 23, June 18, Sept. 24, Nov. 5 and Dec. 17. The MPO was created in the 1950s to provide a local voice for the state on transportation issues. — Terry O’Connor

Expect traffic delays

Heavy equipment at the corner of 35th Street Gulf Drive continues work on the Force Main 5 project in Holmes Beach. The $7.4 million Anna Maria Island force main replacement project involves installing about 20,000 linear feet of pipe between Manatee Avenue and Cortez Road. Islander Photos: Courtesy Tina Allen, Manatee County community outreach specialist

PropertyWatch

Island real estate transactions

By Jesse Brisson Special to The Islander 811 N. Shore Drive, Anna Maria, a 4,037 sfla / 6,862 sfur 4bed/3½bath/2car Gulffront home built in 1973 on a 44,449 sq ft lot was sold 12/13/17, Fernandez to Rysal Enterprises LLC for $3,200,000; list $3,390,000. 805 N. Shore Drive, Anna Maria, a 2,049 sfla / 4,305 sfur 2bed/2bath/4car Gulffront home built in 1993 on a 38,274 sq ft lot was sold 12/13/17, Caron to AMI North Shore Properties LLC for $2,150,000; list $2,599,000 206 Church Ave., Bradenton Beach, a 3,308 sfla / 4,527 sfur 5bed/5½bath/2car pool home built in 2016 on a 5,000 sq ft lot was sold 12/15/17, 206 Church LLC to Haggerty for $1,380,000; list $1,399,000. 617 Bay Blvd. N., Anna Maria, a 4bed/4bath triplex built in 1952 on a 10,000 sq ft lot was sold 12/01/17, BP Futures LLC to Bay Breeze of Anna Maria LLC for $1,325,000; list $1,390,000. 530 Key Royale Drive, Holmes Beach, a 2,098 sfla / 3,098 sfur 4bed/3bath/2car canalfront pool home built in 1963 on a 14,000 sq ft lot was sold 12/12/17, Varley to Gentry for $1,025,000; list $1,100,000. 716 N. Shore Drive, Anna Maria, a 1,984 sfla / 2,596 sfur 3bed/2½bath/1car home built in 1958 on a 10,200 sq ft lot was sold 12/06/18, Fouts to Mason Martin LLC for $950,000. 527 77th Street, Holmes Beach, a 2,364 sfla / 2,966 sfur 2bed/3bath/2car canalfront pool home built in 1966 on a 9,810 sq ft lot was sold 12/07/17, Muth to Kriebel for $865,000; list $895,000. 213 Periwinkle Plaza, Anna Maria, a 1,656 sfla /

Work on the Force Main 5 project continues Jan. 9 on Fourth Avenue in Holmes Beach 2,340 sfur 3bed/2bath/1car pool home built in 1959 on a 11,250 sq ft lot was sold 12/08/17, RPE LLC to Daniel for $817,000; list $819,000. 117 Maple Ave., Anna Maria, a 1,296 sfla / 1,608 sfur 2bed/2bath/1car home built in 1967 on a 5,000 sq ft lot was sold 12/15/17, Munson to RPE LLC for $720,000; list $749,000. 103 Gulf Drive N., Bradenton Beach, a commercial 2,280 sfla / 2,720 sfur restaurant built in 1949 on a 5,300 sq ft lot was sold 12/06/17, Rappaport to Gulf View Equities LLC for $540,000. 2405 Ave. B, Bradenton Beach, a 1,650 sfla / 3,680 sfur 4bed/4bath duplex built in 1986 on a 5,000 sq ft lot was sold 12/01/17, Cusack to Waitt for $500,000; list $505,900. 100 73rd St., Unit 204A, Coconuts, Holmes Beach, a 660 sfla / 780 sfur 1bed/1bath Gulffront condo with shared pool built in 1972 was sold 11/30/17, Baker to Petravia Inc. for $445,000; list $475,000. 211 Elm Ave., Unit A, Isles End, Anna Maria, a 717 sfla / 733 sfur 2bed/1bath condo built in 1971 was sold 12/07/17, Brunault to Sandpiperami LLC for $442,500; list $469,000. 6250 Holmes Blvd., Unit 63, North Beach Village, Holmes Beach, a 1,224 sfla / 2,058 sfur 2bed/2½bath/1car condo with shared pool built in 1990 was sold 11/29/17, Kriebel to Zarodnansky for $425,000; list $444,000. 6400 Flotilla Drive, Unit 41, Westbay Point and Moorings, Holmes Beach, a 1,114 sfla / 1,426 sfur 2bed/2bath condo with shared pool built in 1977 was sold 12/19/17, Goldsmith to Bartschke for $400,000. 5608 Gulf Drive, Unit 107, Sun Plaza West, Holmes Beach, a 1,092 sfla / 1,236 sfur 2bed/2bath condo with shared pool built in 1981 was sold 12/14/17, Cole to Whaley for $371,900.

1801 Gulf Drive N., Unit 114, Runaway Bay, Bradenton Beach, a 1,080 sfla / 1,140 sfur 2bed/2bath condo with shared pool built in 1978 was sold 11/27/17, Wenzel Runaway Bay Rental LLC to Concessi for $329,000; list $345,000. 4307 Gulf Drive, Unit 107, Cayman Cay, Holmes Beach, a 1,027 sfla / 1,123 sfur 2bed/2bath condo with shared pool built in 1974 was sold 12/15/17, Borrelli to Hayden for $307,000; list $329,000. 6500 Flotilla Drive, Unit 153, Westbay Point and Moorings, Holmes Beach, a 1,066 sfla / 1,458 sfur 2bed/2bath condo with shared pool built in 1978 was sold 12/15/17, Gruskay to Daily for $280,000; list $289,900. 1325 Gulf Drive N., Unit 219, Tortuga, Bradenton Beach, a 476 sfla 1bed/1bath condo with shared pool built in 1976 was sold 12/01/17, Fineout to Staaf for $260,000. 600 Manatee Ave., Unit 226, Westbay Cove, Holmes Beach, a 888 sfla / 954 sfur 1bed/1bath condo with shared pool built in 1977 was sold 12/08/17, Di Cicco to Blanche for $220,000. Jesse Brisson, broker/associate at Gulf-Bay Realty of Anna Maria, can be reached at 941-778-7244.

Community notices, events

The Islander welcomes notices of your events and projects on Anna Maria Island and encourages you to submit both news and photographs. Send press releases and photos with detailed captions to news@islander.org. Remember to include complete contact information, both for inquires from the editor and to be printed with the release.

THE ISLANDER n Jan. 24, 2018 n 15

O V ER LO O K I N G A N N A M A R I A S O U N D

Live the Lifestyle at One Particular Harbour

A nna Mari â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Voted To a Island p 10 Beach

Marina, Dining & Enter tainment

Sunset V ie

MOVE-IN READY WATERFRONT RESIDENCES FROM THE HIGH $400s Sheltered from the wind, thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a private island paradise waiting for you to come DVKRUH ZKHUH LVODQG VW\OHG UHVLGHQFHV RÎ? HU VWXQQLQJ VXQVHW YLHZV D GHHSZDWHU marina provides direct access to the Gulf of Mexico, and dockside dining and boat drinks are served with a license to chill. Hurry, before this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity sails away!

Brand New Vacation Homes â&#x20AC;˘ Short-Term Rental Opportunity â&#x20AC;˘ Floridaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Last Private Island

Buy Now For Priority Boat Slip Reservation, Call Today! 888-508-4680 | OPHMintoUSA.com 12300 Manatee Ave. West, Bradenton, FL 34209

This material shall not constitute a valid offer in any state where prior registration is required. The facilities and amenities described and depicted are proposed, but not yet constructed. Photographs are for illustrative purposes only and are merely representative of current development plans. Development plans, amenities, facilities, dimensions, speciďŹ cations, prices and features depicted by artistsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; renderings or otherwise described herein are approximate and subject to change without notice. ÂŠ Minto Communities, LLC 2018. All rights reserved. Content may not be reproduced, copied, altered, distributed, stored or transferred in any form or by any means without express written permission. One Particular Harbour and the One Particular Harbour logo are trademarks of Margaritaville Enterprises, LLC and are used under license. Minto and the Minto logo are trademarks of Minto Communities, LLC and/or its affiliates. CGC 1519880. 1/2018.

16 n JAN. 24, 2018 n THE ISLANDER

Bradenton Beach city attorney cleared of plagiarism

By ChrisAnn Silver esformes Islander Reporter A complaint in Bradenton Beach about the city attorney made to the state bar could soon cost taxpayers $5,000. During the Jan. 24 city commission meeting, Commissioner Jake Spooner re-opened discussion about fees incurred by city attorney Ricinda Perry to defend herself against an allegation made by former planning and Chappie zoning board member John Metz to the Florida Bar Association, claiming Perry plagiarized content in an email to board members and city officials. At a December 2017 commission meeting, Perry said she fought Spooner the allegation and it was dropped, but her defense cost $5,000. She said she did not request the city pay her legal fees, even though Mayor John Chappie said she was defending the city and should not have to pay. the commission and mayor voted Jan. 24 to approve payment of the costs. the vote was 4-1, with Commissioner Randy White voting “nay.” the dispute started with a June 29, 2017, email from Perry to P&Z board members and elected officials that included information on quasi-judicial hearings and ex parte communications from the Florida planning official’s handbook. the email was one of two Perry sent to the board and commissioners warning them of actions by members of the board that she alleged could leave the city open to a lawsuit. Because Perry had not cited the source of the information in her email, Metz claimed in a July 28 email that she plagiarized from the handbook. In an email response to Metz the same day, Perry said public information such as the handbook is not subject to copyright requirements. Perry claimed Metz and five other board members ignored her warnings when she encouraged the city

to join a lawsuit filed in August 2017 by ex-Mayor Jack Clarke against the members for allegedly violating Florida’s Government-in-the-Sunshine Laws at meetings, as well as through emails and phone calls. When discussion on Perry’s cost Metz to defend herself against Metz’s complaint was re-opened Jan. 24, Spooner said Perry should be reimbursed. “(Perry) was trying to protect our city and the judge ruled she was free from any wrongdoing,” he said. However, White was concerned Perry the suit stemmed from personal issues between Perry and Metz and the city should not pay. Chappie, defending Perry, said the issue is in no way personal and, if she seemed passionate, it was because Metz tried to have her disbarred. Chappie also said Perry has statutory rights to the same protection as staff when defending the city. However, Metz sought a public reprimand in his complaint to the Florida Bar. He did not suggest Perry be disbarred. the Nov. 21 response from Richard Coombs, bar counsel, stated the information provided by Metz did not establish “by clear and convincing evidence that Ms. Perry has violated any of the rules regulating the Florida Bar. Coombs stated, “Continued disciplinary proceedings in this matter are inappropriate and our file has been closed effective Nov. 20, 2017.” Perry’s response to the complaint — 27 pages, including seven pages of “evidence” — lacked any reference to outside legal representation and appears to have been written by Perry. At a December 2017 commission meeting, Perry said she fought the allegation and it was dropped. “When you ask your attorney to get information and come forward with a position, you want them to use the facts,” Chappie said. “to be accused and brought before your peers for plagiarism? In my opinion, Mr. Metz should be embarrassed.”

Spooner motioned to approve reimbursement of Perry’s legal expenses, not to exceed $5,000, pending an invoice. Commissioner Marilyn Maro seconded the motion and said if people had heeded Perry’s initial warning, the lawsuit and associated expenses likely would not have occurred. “We tried to listen as a commission,” Maro said. “Other people did not.” Perry, who had declined to be reimbursed for the expense, said she would reluctantly provide the city with an invoice. Metz’s complaint to the Florida Bar, Perry’s response and Coombs’ letter are available to read on the Islander website at islander.org, along with this story.

Response to Florida Bar ruling:

John Metz maintains Ricinda Perry wrote a letter that “plagiarized all or parts of seven pages of the “Florida Planning Officials Handbook” without any reference, citation or quotation marks. Metz wrote to the Islander Jan. 20, stating: “Plagarism is a form of deceit. She does not deny it. Rather she claims that she has so thoroughly referenced this handbook to the city staff (not P&Z) that it is like the Gettysburg address and that everyone recognizes it! “the Florida Bar bought this wild assertion despite my affidavit testimony to the contrary that in three plus years on the P&Z board, Ms. Perry never even appeared nor referenced this handbook. “Ms. Perry also has asserted that she spent $5,000 to defend my complaint. Obviously she felt the complaint was credible. However, although by law she is required to copy me on all correspondence, there has been no outside lawyer referenced in the paperwork. the only paperwork served on me in her defense was her characteristically perfuse character assassination allegations on her opponent.”

Building moratorium extended in Bradenton Beach

By ChrisAnn Silver esformes Islander Reporter time is almost up. the moratorium on building homes containing more than four bedrooms in Bradenton Beach was set to expire last year. During a Jan. 18 commission meeting, the Bradenton Beach mayor and commissioners unanimously approved the final reading of an extension of the building moratorium. However, some people are concerned the commission has not taken sufficient measures to restrict the building of large vacation homes.

Bradenton Beach approves shade meeting

Conflict resolution procedures for a case filed against Bradenton Beach and developer Shawn Kaleta by Manatee County for residential development that would be built over a sewer line are moving closer to a resolution. Following a Jan. 10 conflict assessment meeting with city, county and Kaleta’s representatives, the city decided to set a shade meeting so commissioners could strategize with their attorney for the case, Mark Barnebey. In keeping with Florida’s Government-in-the-Sunshine Laws, Bradenton Beach Mayor John Chappie was the only city elected official in attendance at the conflict resolution session. In a unanimous vote Jan. 18, city commissioners agreed to set the shade meeting for 1 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 7, at the police department conference room, 403 Highland Ave. Due to attorney-client privilege, the majority of the meeting will be closed to the public. A court reporter will attend and the minutes of the meeting will be made public following a resolution. — ChrisAnn Silver Esformes

the moratorium, approved Nov. 8, 2016, by a supermajority of the electorate, halted permitting and construction for six months for homes containing more than four bedrooms in the R-1 and R-2 residential zones. It has been extended three times, for three months each time, while the commission works with the planning and zoning board on land development code amendments — regulations on construction in the city to prevent large-scale short-term rental housing. With the vote Jan. 18, the moratorium will expire March 7. City attorney Ricinda Perry said Jan. 4 if the final readings of the recent LDC amendments are approved in February, the moratorium will “effectively terminate.” Priscilla Von Ahnen, a former resident of Bradenton Beach who spearheaded the 2016 campaign for the moratorium, spoke Jan. 18 about her concerns that recent amendments to the quality-of-life ordinance — a measure to curtail problems at vacation rentals — and the LDC will not stop developers from building large vacation homes in residential areas. Von Ahnen moved to Longboat Key in 2017 with husband Frank Harrison, a former member of the planning and zoning board, citing a diminishing neighborhood due to short-term rentals. Von Ahnen again made a plea Jan. 18 to the commission to limit the number of bedrooms in new homes. the amended QOL ordinance bases occupancy on a state-regulated calculation relating to air conditioning load which, according to building official Steve Gilbert, “usually” amounts to an occupancy limit of two people per bedroom, plus two. Von Ahnen said this is not sufficient. “the residents want four bedrooms, but five or six is better than no limit at all and is more than generous,” she said. “Without some limits, what is coming? ten, 12 or more bedrooms — more than most motels. Limit

Former Bradenton Beach resident Priscilla Von Ahnen, left, addresses the commission Jan. 18 during a meeting at city hall, 107 Gulf Drive N. Islander Photo: ChrisAnn Silver Esformes it now while there is still hope for the city to maintain its uniqueness.” the commission thanked Von Ahnen for her statement, but did not respond further. the next commission meeting will be at 6 p.m. thursday, Feb. 1, at city hall, 107 Gulf Drive N.

Milestones

the Islander welcomes stories about islanders and island life, as well as photographs and notices of the milestones in readers’ lives — weddings, births, anniversaries, travels, obituaries and other events. Submit your announcements and photographs with captions for publication — along with contact information — to news@islander.org. Also, visit us on Facebook and join the 10,700-plus friends who “like” the Islander and share their social news.

THE ISLANDER n JAN. 24, 2018 n 17

Listeners crowd island library for political lecture

18.

By Bianca Benedí Islander Reporter Politics pulled a crowd to the Island Library Jan.

the room was full by 1:30 p.m. for a 2 p.m. talk by Paul Ferber. Outside, the parking lot was full, and a line of cars were parked along Flotilla Drive. Ferber is a professor of political science at the Rochester Institute of technology in Rochester, New York, with a bachelor’s degree from American University and a doctorate from George Washington University. He discussed Americansʼ dissatisfaction and distrust in their federal government, including, “Why we were happier about politics in the ʼ50s.” Ferber said events through the ʼ60s and ʼ70s, including the Vietnam War and Watergate, significantly decreased Americansʼ trust in their government. In addition, he said, a “less pliant press” in the aftermath of Watergate brought critical coverage of government, eroding confidence. Ferber said increased opportunities to litigate against the government “may have unintentionally slowed it down.” As a result, people have gained the impression that government operates slowly. Another factor? People are wrapped in “partisan cocoons,” he said, aided by social media and news organizations. the result is Americans “view the other side as illegitimate,” he said. the rise of special interest groups also made Americans more politically divided, he said, impeding the ability to compromise. Marilyn Richter, a visitor to the island from New York City, said she thinks the lecture was popular because “the topic is on everybody’s minds.” She said it was interesting to see Ferber’s data showing how public trust eroded over time. Richter said she used to disagree with people who “knock Washington as corrupt.”

Paul Ferber lectures “On The Prickly Topic — Politics” Jan. 18 at the Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Islander Photo: Bianca Benedí

“I like government,” Richter, who said she works for local government, explained. “But now I think Washington is completely dysfunctional. I don’t trust most of the people down there.” ellen Marshall, a snowbird from Kentucky and Richter’s friend, said she thought heightened emotions about President Donald trump’s first year in office motivated people to attend the lecture.

WE TWEET TOO @ami_islander

She said politics have become too divisive and too partisan. “It’s my way or the highway,” she said. Ferber was the second speaker in a series of lectures presented by the Friends of the Island Library. the next lecture will be at 2 p.m. thursday, Jan. 25, and will feature Sally Snowman on “the Boston Light Keeper.” the library is at 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach.

WEDNESDAYS ARE BACK! ENTIRE FLEA MARKET OPEN 7%$ s &2) s 3!4 s 35. 8AM-4PM

Bring the Family, Spend the Day

s &ARM &RESH 0RODUCE s 0LANTS s #LOTHING s *EWELRY s 'REAT &OOD s 'REAT "ARGAINS &2%% !$-)33)/. !CRES OF &2%% 0!2+).'

“Best Place to Find Anything!” VER VENDORS )NSIDE AND /UT

Entire Flea Market Open 7EDs&RIs3ATs3UN 8-4

1707 1st St. E., Bradenton Where Hwy 41 & 301 meet @ 17th Ave

941-747-3794

www.redbarnﬂeamarket.com Red Barn Plaza Area OPEN Tuesday-Sunday (SEE WEBSITE FOR DETAILS)

18 n Jan. 24, 2018 n THE ISLANDER

HAPPY HOUR ON THE PIER â&#x20AC;¢ $4 Select Liquors â&#x20AC;¢ 50Â¢ off Draft Beers & House Wines â&#x20AC;¢ Buy One, Get One 50% off all Appetizers & Oysters

STORE HOURS Open Daily Breakfast Weekend Brunch

B ra d e nto n B e a c h

Fo r ot h e r l o c at i o n s , v i s i t O yst e r B a r. n et

Key

Roya

le Pas

3218 E. Bay Drive, Holmes Beach 34217

8am - 9pm 8am - 11am 8am - 2pm

Accommodates up to 6 people

4528 119th St. West., Cortez NEXT TO SWORDFISH GRILL

941.713.5958

Letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Go Sailing!

Kathleen D Sailing Catamarans

Sailing from 3 locations Anna Maria Island Longboat Key Downtown Sarasota 941-870-4349

www.kathleend.net

USCG Certified to 20 passengers

$YDLODEOH $We AMI CENTRE, 3218 E. BAY DRIVE, HOLMES BEACH 941 778-7978 â&#x20AC;¢ WWW.ISLANDER.ORG

Portraits by the Sea The Original

PHOTOGRAPHY

941.778.2711

www.jackelka.com

Interperative Sail Tours Aboard 1800s-Design Custom Work Boat Built in Cortez by Whisper Captain & Naturalist Geoffrey H. Kendrick $OLPHINS s -ANATEES s "IRDS

Whisper Sailing

SAIL: $20 PER PERSON

LUNCH & DINNER ( OPEN 7 DAYS

As fresh as it gets â&#x20AC;Ś

THE ISLANDER n Jan. 24, 2018 n 19

SERVING GOURMET ICE CREAM SINCE 1984

Coastal Living: One of the 20 best seafood dives of all time.

Philly BESesTesteak

BEST

Sports Bar, Chicken Wings, Place to Watch Sports!

che natee in Ma ty! Coun

â?&#x160; Truly Homemade Ice Cream

(yes, we really make it ourselves)

NO SHOWER HAPPY HOUR!!

FRESH SEAFOOD MARKET AND DOCKSIDE RESTAURANT

Bayfront at 12306 46th Ave W., Cortez 941.794.1243

â?&#x160; 6OTED "EST )CE #REAM â?&#x160; /PEN $AYS A 7EEK

Mon-Fri 3-5pm Food & Drink Specials $3 Domestic Bottle Beers $5 House Wines, $4 Drinks Come from the Beach to the Bar! ( Live Music Fri & Sat 7-10 ( KITCHEN OPEN LATE WEEKENDS C8

WWW TYLERSICECREAM COM

9701 Gulf Drive ( Anna Maria ( 941-567-4056 www.slimsplaceami.com A2

7% 47%%4 4//

AUTHENTIC INDIAN CUISINE

The Island Spice

3608 E. BAY DRIVE â&#x20AC;˘ HOLMES BEACH

941-527-0123

Come â&#x20AC;&#x153;Meatâ&#x20AC;?Our Subs & Salads!

,ONGBOAT #ENTER 3HOPS

Established 1952

ther? Cold weam, mon! le b o r p o N ther New weang! proofi

Tue-Sat 11:30-2:30, Dinner 4:30-9 Lunch Sunday 12-3, Dinner 4:30-9

www.theislandspice.com

#ORTEZ TH

EAT IN DINE OUT

LUNCH BUFFET

AMI?ISLANDER

3/&4 3%26% s 3/2"%4 s 35'!2 &2%% &!4 &2%% -ANATEE !VE TH

GREAT S BURGER 1 VOTED #

OLD FLORIDA ORIGINAL

FROSTED MUGS VOTED # 1

TUESDAY-SUNDAY 11-8, CLOSED MONDAY VĂ&#x20AC;Â&#x153;Ă&#x192;Ă&#x192;Ă&#x160;vĂ&#x20AC;Â&#x153;Â&#x201C;Ă&#x160; >Â&#x2DC;>Ă&#x152;iiĂ&#x160;*Ă&#x2022;LÂ?Â&#x2C6;VĂ&#x160; i>VÂ&#x2026;Ă&#x160;UĂ&#x160;Ă&#x17D;Â&#x2122;Ă¤ÂŁĂ&#x160; Ă&#x2022;Â?vĂ&#x160; Ă&#x20AC;Â&#x2C6;Ă&#x203A;iĂ&#x160;UĂ&#x160; Â&#x153;Â?Â&#x201C;iĂ&#x192;Ă&#x160; i>VÂ&#x2026; Ă&#x160;Ă&#x160;Ă&#x160;Ă&#x160;Ă&#x160;Ă&#x160;Ă&#x160;Ă&#x160;Ă&#x160;Ă&#x160;Ă&#x160;Ă&#x160;Ă&#x160;Ă&#x160;Ă&#x160;Â&#x2122;{ÂŁÂ&#x2021;Ă&#x2021;Ă&#x2021;nÂ&#x2021;Ă&#x2021;Ă&#x2021;Ă&#x2C6;Â&#x2122;Ă&#x160;UĂ&#x160;Ă&#x153;Ă&#x153;Ă&#x153;Â°yĂ&#x160;Â&#x153;Ă&#x20AC;Â&#x2C6;`>Ă&#x192;iVĂ&#x20AC;iĂ&#x152;Ă&#x192;Â°VÂ&#x153;Â&#x201C; B5

Cortez Bait & Seafood THE REAL DEAL, FRESH DAILY!

Featuring

941.778.5788

Yes, we deliver!

5346 gulf drive holmes beach

308 Pine Avenue | 941-251-4070

Family-owned and operated RETAIL SEAFOOD MARKET

Seafood fresh off the boat or smoked!

12110 Cortez Road W. ~ Downtown Cortez Mon-Sat. 10-6 â&#x20AC;˘ Sunday 10-5 â&#x20AC;˘ 941-794-1547 www.cortezbaitandseafood.com

20 n Jan. 24, 2018 n THE ISLANDER

Cops & Court By Kathy Prucnell, Islander Reporter

HBPD arrests Bradenton man for DUI

A Bradenton man who urinated during a traffic stop was arrested for driving under the influence, according to the Holmes Beach police report. Holmes Beach police arrested Ernesto Vidal, 65, at 2:46 a.m. Jan. 7 after officers were alerted to a reckless motorist driving a gray Nissan over the Anna Maria Island Bridge. Parked at the Kingfish Boat Vidal Ramp, 700 Manatee Ave., Officer Mike Walker observed sparks flying from the Nissan on the bridge, according to an HBPD report. Officer Alan Bores arrived on the scene and ordered Vidal to turn off the vehicle and walk to the front of the patrol vehicle. Vidal complied and agreed to a field-sobriety test, but urinated and nearly fell over several times, according to a police report. The officer took him into custody and to the Holmes Beach police station, where Vidal provided breath samples measuring 0.193 and 0.200 bloodalcohol content. The legal BAC is 0.08. Police also determined the tag on the Nissan was assigned to another vehicle and the Nissanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s registration expired in December 2017. In addition to the DUI arrest, Vidal was ticketed for not driving in a single lane, an attached but unassigned tag and no proof of insurance. He was booked at the Manatee County jail and released on a $740 bond. Vidalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s arraignment is set for 8:25 a.m. Wednesday, Feb. 7, at the Manatee County Judicial Center, 1051 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton.

Streetlife

Roadwatch

Eyes on the road

Sarasota woman arrested for DUI in Holmes Beach

Holmes Beach police arrested a Sarasota woman for driving under the influence of alcohol â&#x20AC;&#x201D; at about twice the legal limit. Shari Rosploch, 44, was arrested at 1:39 a.m. Jan. 6 after an officer conducting radar in the 5200 block of Gulf Drive noticed her Jeep cross the center yellow lines. HBPD Officer Alan Bores folRosploch lowed the Jeep as it traveled south on Gulf Drive, observing the vehicleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s tires swerve across the center as it approached the S-curve south of Manatee Avenue. The officer stopped the vehicle in the 3300 block of Gulf Drive. Rosploch handed Bores an expired registration and allegedly told him she was coming from a friendâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s house. She also told the officer sheâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d consumed two beers and taken prescription medication, Xanax and Adderall, earlier in the day, according to the police report. Rosploch agreed to perform a field-sobriety test, but it was discontinued after she lost her balance and fell. Officers found a handgun in the glove compartment and determined she had a permit to carry it, but took the weapon for safekeeping. Rosploch was transported to the Manatee County jail, where she provided breath samples measuring 0.196 and 0.188 blood-alcohol content. The legal BAC is 0.08. The woman also was ticketed for failure to drive in a single lane and display vehicle registration. She was booked at the Manatee County jail and released on a $500 bond, pending an 8:30 a.m. Wednesday, Feb. 7, arraignment at the Manatee County Judicial Center, 1051 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton.

The Florida Department of Transportation posted the following notice for the week of Jan. 22: â&#x20AC;˘ State Road 789/Gulf Drive from SR 64/Manatee Avenue to SR 684/Cortez Road: Manatee County crews are replacing force mains and water mains. For more information about the project, go online to amipipereplacement.com. â&#x20AC;˘ State Road 789 at the Longboat Key Drawbridge: A bridge maintenance project involves crews on the structure Jan. 28-Feb. 1. Motorists can expect intermittent lane closures 9 p.m.-4 a.m. For the latest road watch information, go online toÂ www.fl511.comÂ or dial 511.

Islander archive 24/7

Some years ago, The Islander was invited to take part in a digital newspaper pilot project with the University of Florida George A. Smathers Libraries. After submitting electronic â&#x20AC;&#x201D; digital â&#x20AC;&#x201D; editions of the newspaper, we donated our collection of printed newspapers covering from the first edition in 1992 up to the digital era of 2005. It took a few years, but itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s all on the UofF digital library site now, all searchable by key word, name or date. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s simple, easy and available 24/7. Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 25 years, 52 weeks a year, the complete collection of The Islander, online at ufdc.ufl.edu. Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll find The Islander at the UofF library among the digital stacks, now and into the future. Weekly. Find weekly editions of The Islander â&#x20AC;&#x201D; 1992 to present â&#x20AC;&#x201D; online in the University of Florida Digital Library at ufdc.ufl. edu.

By Kathy Prucnell

Island police blotter

Anna Maria Dec. 29, Island Charms, 501 Pine Ave., theft. Store personnel reported an unidentified person caught on video stealing a cigar cutter valued at $135 from a display counter. Jan. 4, 9700 Gulf Drive, confiscated property. A Manatee County sheriffâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s deputy stopped a driver for a traffic violation, leading to contraband confiscation. Eight grams of marijuana and paraphernalia were deposited for destruction. Jan. 10, 700 block of North Shore Drive, information. A Waste Management truck struck a vehicle parked in a driveway, causing an estimated $1,000 in damage. The vehicle owner reported the incident to a Waste Management manager and was told the company would assume responsibility for the damage. Jan. 14, 900 block of North Shore, assist. Five agencies were called at 10:40 p.m. to assist two men on a sailboat south of Rod & Reel Pier about 50 yards from shore after the vessel broke anchor in choppy waters. The sheriffâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s office assisted the men as they secured the boat in the dark. Also called were the U.S. Coast Guard, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, West Manatee Fire Rescue and Bradenton Beach police. The two men told law enforcement they would remain on the boat until the morning and call 911 if they needed help.

Anna Maria is policed by MCSO. Bradenton Beach Jan. 16, La Costa condos, stolen bike. A Trek bicycle valued at $476 was reported stolen. The owner found the bicycle gone and a lock on the ground the morning after heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d left the bike in a rack. Bradenton Beach is policed by Bradenton Beach Police Department. Cortez Jan. 4, 4400 block of 115th Street West, battery. A male aggressor pushed a 47-year-old man off his bicycle, struck him several times and threatened to kill the man. MCSO issued a request to the state attorney for the aggressorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s arrest. Jan. 9, 119th Street and Cortez Road West, confiscated property. A deputy observed a white Mitsubishi traveling west, checked its registration and stopped the motorist for driving with an improper tag, and also found the driverâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s license was suspended. The license and tag were seized. Cortez is policed by MCSO. Holmes Beach Jan. 7, 300 block of 61st Street, trespass. Police responded to a call about an assault and found a woman in the yard. The woman told officers she was living with the owner, who had invited another man over, and all three were drinking at a fire pit when a verbal dispute turned physical. The man allegedly shoved

WINTER FUN SPECIAL

10% OFF

ANY 2%.4!, ./4 ).#,5$).' "/!4 2%.4!,

FACEBOOK COM *UST &UN2ENTALS

3 3 0LAZA s 'ULF $RIVE s (OLMES "EACH s

Island watch

In an emergency, call 911. To report information on island crime, call the Manatee County Sheriffâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Office Anna Maria substation, 941-708-8899; Bradenton Beach police, 941-778-6311; or Holmes Beach police, 941-708-5804. the woman to the ground and the woman reportedly punched the man in the face. Waivers of prosecution were signed. The visitor was issued a trespass warning. Jan. 10, 500 block of 74th Street, suspicious circumstance. Holmes Beach police received a report of a man removing his gun from his residence. Officers checked the area, the man returned and told police heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d been drinking. The officer took the gun for safekeeping. Jan. 11, 700 block of Manatee Avenue, alcohol. A woman with a Styrofoam cup of wine was cited for violating the city ordinance against possessing alcohol on the street. The vehicle sheâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d been driving ran out of gas. Police also issued her tickets for expired vehicle registration and parking on the sidewalk. Her vehicle was towed. Holmes Beach is policed by HBPD. Streetlife is based on incident reports and narratives from the BBPD, HBPD and MCSO.

2999

Oil Change Special Up to 5 quarts of conventional oil, most cars. By appointment, please. Exp 01-31-18 CALL GROOMS! 5608 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 941.896.7898

THE ISLANDER n JAN. 24, 2018 n 21

WMFR recognizes officers with annual awards

WMFR aims for Feb. 1 for ALS startup By Bianca Benedí Islander Reporter West Manatee Fire Rescue may soon be able to fulfill a need for medical response on Anna Maria Island. the district announced it will have a vehicle on the island with advanced life-support equipment and a staff of paramedics by Feb. 1. the fire district received its state license to offer ALS, Chief tom Sousa said, and an inspection will be scheduled in the next one to two months. Sousa said three paramedics are in final training for approval from Manatee County emergency Medical Services and should be cleared by Jan. 29 to operate as paramedics. three other firefighters are preparing to go through the training, and three are scheduled to complete medic school by the end of February. More are scheduled to take classes in the coming months. Sousa said WMFR should have enough trained paramedics to staff three vehicles by January 2019. the first ALS-equipped vehicle will be launched at Station 3, 6001 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. A second vehicle is planned for Station 1 in Bradenton in June. Sousa said WMFR is equipping existing fire engines with ALS equipment for the program. WMFR currently has enough equipment to operate ALS on one truck. the district will purchase another defibrillator monitor, which run $32,000 each, Sousa said, in order to equip the second engine. At one point over the Martin Luther King Jr. weekend, Manatee County eMS was so busy it had no ambulances available, Sousa said, and Manatee Memorial Hospital was on diversion. Sousa said the city brought in other units to alleviate the pressure. the demand illustrates a need for increased ALS services, Sousa said. WMFR firefighters expect to offer ALS service, including a defibrillator, starting Feb. 1, from a vehicle stationed on Anna Maria Island.

By Bianca Benedí Islander Reporter West Manatee Fire Rescue recognized exemplary performance at its annual awards ceremony Jan. 16. Battalion Chief Richard Losek was recognized twice — for 30 years of service and as Officer of the Year, a title awarded to him by nominations from the WMFR officers and firefighters. Jeff Philips earned Firefighter of the Year for his service and dedication, as well as ability to go above and beyond, according to Chief tom Sousa. William Bowen earned the meritorious service award for his role as union representative. Sousa said the award is not given every year. Firefighter Chris O’Kelly and administrative assistant Julie Kichar were recognized for 20 years of service. Firefighters Zack Benshoff and Derek Bill were recognized for five years of service. Ana Reyes, the administrative finance clerk, as well as firefighters Frank Agresta, Alex Flores and Andrew Powers were recognized for completing their first year of service. the three also were promoted to third class firefighter after completing their first year. Firefighter Robert Haygood was promoted to first

WMFR commissioners keep board assignments

West Manatee Fire Rescue District commissioners voted Jan. 16 to keep their 2017 board assignments. Larry Jennis, who serves as chair for 2018, also will serve on the awards and appreciation committee. George Harris, the 2017 chair, will stay on the safety committee. Al Robinson, who is vice chair, is keeping his assignments as liaison to the Coalition of the Barrier Island elected Officials and as an alternate on the Manatee County Fire Commission. David Bishop is keeping his positions on the dinner committee and as facilities adviser. Randal Cooper retained his position as WMFR representative for the MCFC, citizen fire academy, open houses and welcoming new reserves. — Bianca Benedí

Bathroom Remodeling

HOW TO RELAX ON AN ISLAND.

◆ 25 Years Experience

MASSAGE BY NADIA Call 941.518.8301 MA#0017550

Massaging on AMI for more than 17 years. Your place, your convenience. GIFT CERTIFICATES AVAILABLE

5412 Marina Drive • Island Shopping Center Holmes Beach • 941.778.2253

CHRISTIE’S PLUMBING

941-778-0020 www.BinsBeClean.com

MONTHLY BIN CLEANING SERVICE • Residential & Commercial

We’re celebrating our 46th year serving the island communities!

Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning

Tile & Grout Cleaning

CALL TODAY 941.778.2882 or 941.387.0607 www.fatcatcarpetcleaning.com

(It happens every year!)

In 1972, Richard Nixon was president, personal computers and cellphones didn’t exist. Many things have changed through the years but, at West Coast Air Conditioning & Heating, we’ve never changed our commitment to quality, service and value.

OUR 46th ANNIVERSARY GIFT TO YOU: SERVICE CALL – 10% OFF PARTS or $100 OFF COMPLETE SYSTEM. Call today to make an appointment. This offer expires March 1, 2018. Sorry, discount does not apply to regular routine maintenance visits.

at the corner of Gulf & Marina Drives

941-779-0487

941-778-9622 The Island Experts Since 1972 5347 Gulf Drive #4 Holmes Business Center

CACO44365 CAC1815902

LOCATED IN THE BACK OF THE BUILDING

Bins Be Clean can wash it all away, leaving your bins clean, smelling fresh, and bacteria free.

Call 786.318.8585

5333 Gulf Drive Holmes Beach (CFC1426596)

5508 MARINA DRIVE, HOLMES BEACH

Are you afraid to go near your trash and recycling bins? Does your garage reek of last month’s dinners?

Foreign & Domestic • Air Conditioning Electrical Systems • Tune-Ups, Brakes & More

REPAIRS & REMODELING • NEW CONSTRUCTION EMERGENCY SERVICE • FREE ESTIMATES WATER HEATERS • SEWER & DRAIN CLEANING NO EXTRA CHARGE FOR OVERTIME

778-3924 OR 778-4461

GOT STINK?

We’re Celebrating Again

HOLMES BEACH AUTOMOTIVE SERVICE

RESIDENTIAL / COMMERCIAL Family Owned and Operated Since 1975 Two Florida State-Certiﬁed Master Plumbers

Richard Losek, West Manatee Fire Rescue battalion chief, accepts an award Jan. 16 for Officer of the Year from Chief Tom Sousa at the district’s annual awards ceremony. Losek also received an award recognizing 30 years of service. Islander Photo: Bianca Benedí

◆ Local, Licensed and Insured ◆ Fast, Clean, High Quality

Satisfaction Guaranteed!

L I F E A U T O H O M E B O AT B U S I N E S S

class firefighter. Several reserve firefighters were honored for reaching one year of service, including Branden Baserva, Danielle Burton, Matthew Frey, Richard Johnson, Clayton Lease, Sean Morrisey and Benjamin Stasurek. And, for serving as chair of the board for 2017, board member George Harris received an honorary gavel.

22 n JAN. 24, 2018 n THE ISLANDER

Obituaries

Virginia ‘Ginny’ D. Eitman

Virginia “Ginny” D. (Pugh) eitman, 80, of Bradenton, died Jan. 14. She was born Nov. 30, 1937, in Fort Wayne, Indiana. She graduated from South Side High School in Fort Wayne, and the School of the Arts and Sciences at Indiana University in Bloomington. She was a member of Pi Beta Phi social sorority and Omicron Nu Eitman National Honor Society.

Annual prayer breakfast set for Jan. 25

More than 500 people are expected to attend the take Stock in Children of Manatee County 11th annual Leadership Prayer Breakfast thursday, Jan. 25, at the Bradenton Area Convention Center. the event, modeled after the National Prayer Breakfast in Washington, D.C., raises awareness and funding for tSIC scholars. Keynote speaker Mike Jarvis, a retired NCAA basketball coach and the author of “everyone Needs a Head Coach,” will talk about “the power of mentoring.” Jarvis served as coach and mentor for high school and college students for more than two decades. Attendees also will hear from five tSIC scholars about joining the program, graduating from high school, graduating from college and entering the workforce. Sunz Insurance and the Bradenton Kiwanis are the leading sponsors for the annual fundraiser. the Kiwanis Club of Anna Maria Island also supports the effort, according to a news release. take Stock in Children of Manatee County is a nonprofit that encourages students to pursue post-secondary education otherwise not able to afford higher education. the breakfast will begin at 7:30 a.m. For more information, reservations or tickets, go online to takestockmanatee.org or call Jamie Serino at 941- 751-6550, ext. 2172.

She held different positions in nonprofits, including secretary of the Artists’ Guild of Anna Maria Island and ordained elder of the Presbyterian Church. She retired from Forest Corporation, twinsburg, Ohio, in 1999, and from the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art in Sarasota. Brown & Sons Funeral Homes & Crematory 26th Street Chapel in Bradenton is charge of Arrangements. Condolences maybe be made to brownandsonsfuneral. com. Memorial donations may be made to the David F. eitman Youth High Adventure endowment Fund, Northfield Presbyterian Church 7755 S. Boyden Road, Northfield Center, OH 44067. She is survived by her husband, David F., to whom she was married for 58 years; sons Stephen and wife elizabeth Goldstein of thousand Oaks, California; Scott and wife Cheryl Biales of Beachwood, Ohio; Bruce and his Christine Hettrick of Akron, Ohio, and Christopher of Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio; and grandchildren Blaise, tanner, Saige, Jolie, Abigail, Liam, tommy and Bobby.

Alan Jonathan ‘Jon’ Wimpy

Alan Jonathan “Jon” Wimpy of Palmetto, died Jan. 17, his 54th birthday, at tidewell Hospice in ellenton. He was the owner of Appalachian Material Service. He was known for being the life of the party. He never met a stranger. Generous to a fault, he was loved by all. Brown & Sons Funeral Homes & Crematory 43rd Street Chapel in Bradenton was in charge of arrangements. Memorial donations can be made to MD Anderson Cancer Center Lymphoma Research. 1220 Holcombe Blvd., Houston tx 77030 or tidewell Hospice Inc., 4151 37th St. e, Palmetto FL 34221. Condolences may be made to brownandsonsfuneral. com. He is survived by his wife, Jamie; parents Al and Ann of Dahlonega, Georgia; daughter Casey Schneider; grandsons Jack, Guy and Dean Schneider of Bradenton; stepson Race Foster; sister Katherine Carey; niece Ruthie Carey; nephew Henry Carey of Robert J. Herman Mount Pleasant, South Carolina; dog Callaway; seven Robert J. Herman, 61, of Bradenton and formerly uncles; nine aunts; and 25 cousins. of Holmes Beach, died Dec. 19, 2017. He was born in Queens, New York, to Roman and Frances. He graduated from Chaminade High School At your service on Long Island, New York, and later earned an engiObituaries are provided as a community serneering degree. vice in the Islander newspaper to residents and He and life partner Casey Hoffman operated AMI family of residents, both past and present, as well Radio and Zegway by the Bay. as to those people with ties to Anna Maria Island. He lived by some of his favorite song lyrics: Information may be submitted to news@islander. “I need never get old” and “Always be humble and org. Paid obituaries are available by calling sales kind.” rep toni Lyon at 941-778-7978 or by email, toni@ A celebration of life and tribute concert will be islander.org. held 1-5 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 28, at the Center of Anna Maria Island, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria. All are welcome to attend. the concert will feature performances by Mac “Anna Maria Island,” a pictoMcConnell, Chip Ragsdale, the Fungies, thor, Koko rial history book of the island by Ray and the Keepers, DeLaran, tangled Mangoes, Bonner Joy, is available at The Memphis Rub and Concrete edgar. Islander office, 3218 E. Bay Drive, the Ugly Grouper and Scot’s Deli, both of Holmes Holmes Beach. Joy is publisher Beach, are providing food. Attendees may bring their of the newspaper. She launched own beverages. the paper in 1992, and she is a Mr. Herman is survived by his life partner, Casey; 42-year resident of the island. children Robert and Lauren; siblings Raymond, Patricia, and theresa of Pennsylvania and New York. ALL ARE WELCOME

Founded 1956

Pastor Rosemary Wheeler Backer

simple cremations

740

simple burials

1,195

Online arrangements available Sarasota (941) 312-6371 | Manatee (941) 213-9234

SoundChoiceCremation.com 2018

Sunday 10 a.m. Worship Service

WORSHIP WITH US SATURDAY AT 5 PM SUNDAY AT 9:30 AM Fellowship follows Sunday worship

JANUARY 28

DOORS OPEN AT 3:00 • FREE-W

6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key All are welcome

6608 Marina Drive ~ Holmes Beach ~ 941-778-1813 www.gloriadeilutheran.com “All are welcome”

CONCERT SERIES 4:00 PM SUNDAY

songeaters

The Rev. Bill Friederich Senior Minister

Acclaimed pianist Eunmi Ko and Grammy-nominated mezzo-soprano Thea Lobo, present SEASONSCAPE, a new look at ART SONG tracing the year through a wide variety of eras and countries. Their diverse repertoire pairs popular chestnuts with lesser known gems that expand the world of classical song and deepen understanding.

941-383-6491 www.longboatislandchapel.org

The Lord’s Warehouse Thrift Shop

Hours 9-noon, Monday, Wednesday, Saturday

Episcopal Church of the Annunciation All are welcome

Sunday services 8 am Holy Eucharist Rite I 10:30 am Holy Eucharist Rite II with Music Thursday service 9:30 am Holy Eucharist and Healing The Rev. Matthew Grunfeld 4408 Gulf Drive ~ Holmes Beach

941-778-1638 ~ www.episcopalchurchoftheannunciation.com

WE LIKE LIKES facebook.com/ Islandernewspaper

ILL OFFERING

ert-Series www.RoserChurch.com/Conc

A NON DENOMINATIONAL CHRISTIAN COMMUNITY COMMUNITY CHURCH • 512 Pine Ave, Anna Maria [near Pier]

SUNDAY WORSHIP • 8:30 AM and 10:00 AM

IN THE SANCTUARY 10:00 AM Nursery & Church School 8:30 AM Early Bird Sunday School • 8:45 AM Adult Bible Study 941-778-0414 • www.RoserChurch.com • www.facebook.com/RoserChurch

“God Isn’t Finished”

THE ISLANDER n JAN. 24, 2018 n 23

New wheels for island’s favorite jack-of-all-trades By Sandy Ambrogi Islander Reporter You might find him washing windows. Or maybe cleaning mullet. Or perhaps doing restaurant maintenance. One never knows where JD White of Holmes Beach might pop up on Anna Maria Island, his lifelong home. But one thing is for sure, White has never been one to sit around. With a list of occupations as long as a squeegee pole, White constantly is on the move

between Holmes Beach, Anna Maria, Bradenton Beach and Cortez, pedaling a trike. A physical handicap holds White back from driving a car, but he cycles day and night. So, when friends noticed his old three-wheeler lacked safety features, they decided a new trike would make a great gift. Phil Cruz, owner of Black Pearl transportation, got the wheels turning, along with the help of bar staff at the Doctor’s Office. Cruz handles limo service for the Beach Bistro, eat Here and the Doc’s Office, while White does odd jobs for owner Sean Murphy. Cruz proposed paying for renovations on White’s old cycle and adding lights for safety, but as word spread and the list of donors grew, the notion of brandnew wheels took over. Beach Bums made Cruz a deal on a sleek blue three-wheeler, and White’s childhood friend, Andrew Fortenberry, hopped in to handle the electronics, a solar-power package, radio, a basket for work supplies, a squeegee-mop holder and lights. “We all saw him riding around in the dark sometimes and it scared us. He needed lights to be out on the road,” Cruz said.

“Andrew and I tested all the stuff and made everything super easy to use and weather-proofed everything, including the switches. Honestly, we were thrilled when it all worked,” Cruz chuckled. Cruz, Fortenberry, the Doc’s barkeeps, some of the donors and White’s mother were among those present Jan. 15 when White was lured to the Doctor’s Office by Cruz for a surprise reveal. “I was tired,” White said. “I had been volunteering at a camp for kids all weekend and I wanted to rest. But he kept insisting I come over. I should have known something was up, but it was a total shock when I came out and saw that bike,” White said. White wants to thank his island family and all those involved in presenting him with the gift, but was reluctant to name names. “I’m afraid I’ll leave someone out, and I sure don’t want to,” White said. “So, thanks to everyone.” Cruz said, “everybody needs a helping hand at some point. JD needed help with a new bike, and we gave it to him.” White got a fast tutorial from Fortenberry, and drove off into the island night. Phil Cruz, left, laughs as Andrew Fortenberry, middle, explains how the handlebar controls operate on JD White’s new stateof-the-art trike. Friends and acquaintances came together to fund the bike and surprise the lifelong islander with a belated Christmas gift. Islander Photos: Sandy Ambrogi

JD White smiles from the saddle of his new trike Jan. 15 in front of the Doctor’s Office, 5312 Holmes Blvd., Holmes Beach.

WINNER OF READERS’ CHOICE YEAR’S BEST CLOSET & CABINET COMPANY

GET IN THE GAME

• Custom closets • Media centers. • Ofﬁces • Garages • Pantries Total organization! . • We beat any competitor's price – guaranteed! • Over a decade of experience locally. • Family owned and operated.

The Islander game returns Jan. 31 for the Feb. 4 SUPER Super Bowl LII Contest … Cash AND Prizes!

941.242.1452 Facebook: dream closets LLC Twitter #dreamclosetsLLC www.dreamclosetsllc.com

Check out our new showroom, less than 1 mile from I-75 on S.R. 64. 8007 Lena Road, Bradenton

24 n Jan. 24, 2018 n THE ISLANDER

Holmes Beach code enforcers aim for compliance, compassion

By Terry O’Connor Islander Reporter No two days are the same for the enforcers in Holmes Beach. But every day focuses on doing their best at work and showing compassion to their targets. Holmes Beach code enforcement officers JT Thomas and Nate Brown are on the job inspecting island properties six days a week. Thomas visited 10 sites before noon Jan. 17. His wide-ranging duties that morning included ensuring vacation rental compliance, conducting inspections, comforting distraught residents, helping salvage a listing boat, warning a marina operator about unkempt landscaping, monitoring construction sites and doing follow-up case work. All before lunchtime. “The torpedo is in the water,” Thomas called in to Brown, meaning he took action and posted a notice of violation at 626 Key Royale Drive, taking the property owner to the punitive phase of enforcement. “It just became real. We’re on another level.” It takes awhile for code violations to become real in Holmes Beach. Holmes Beach Police Chief Bill Tokajer said the code enforcement mandate is to communicate with residents. “Our attempt is to bring people into compliance — not penalize them,” Tokajer said. The Key Royale Drive property has been involved in four years of legal wrangling, Thomas said. There is no address posted on the home, roofing shingles are strewn about the ground and across the roof and weather-beaten plywood is open to the elements. “The shingles are no longer construction materials,” Thomas said. “They are debris.”

Tampa resident Jamie Kanter takes a break from a home cleanup on Marina Drive to talk with Holmes Beach code enforcement officer JT Thomas.

Rental manager Jomarie Alicea, of A Paradise Vacation Rentals, discusses a licensing inspection Jan. 17 with Holmes Beach code enforcement officer JT Thomas. Islander Photos: Terry O’Connor

The owner has 10 days to appeal the notice of violation posted by Thomas at the property and delivered by hand to the owner’s island property. “I’ve tried everything I can to get in contact with this person to get them in compliance,” Thomas said. “We can’t get through to them.” Commissioner Carol Soustek, code enforcement liaison for the commission, said it’s an ongoing struggle for code enforcement to correct violations, which include a “party house problem.” Holmes Beach is trying to update its codes and be consistent with enforcement, she said. “It’s easier to say what’s noncompliant on the island instead of what properties are in compliance,” Soustek said. “Because there are much fewer of those.” Brown and Thomas say the safety of a dwelling is their main focus. Brown started working Saturdays because so many contractors were sneaking in to perform unauthorized work, which can be dangerous. Jomarie Alicea, of A Paradise Vacation Rentals in Holmes Beach, was the first encounter of the day for Thomas at a property listed for sale at 7901 Palm Ave. A vacation rental sign previously posted at the property — without the required VRO certification — spurred the inspection. Alicea said there’s nothing difficult about obtaining a vacation rental certificate. She’s applied for or received roughly 35 for her employers. “It’s pretty smooth,” she said. “And it keeps everyone safer.” After the inspection and with the unauthorized sign removed, Thomas was satisfied.

“They’re on the right track,” he said. Not everyone welcomes code enforcement officers. “Oh, they almost sic dogs on you, they are so upset,” Soustek said. “You don’t know how they are going to come out,” Thomas said. Next stop is what Thomas terms “the biggest fire on the island” coming out of the three-day Martin Luther King Jr. holiday. People at a home in the 8000 block of Marina Drive were busily filling a waste dumpster as Thomas Please see CODE, Next page

Holmes Beach code enforcement officer JT Thomas calls in a sinking boat at a private dock on Baronet Lane.

KMB replaces tree lost to Hurricane Irma

By Terry O’Connor Islander Reporter A bottlebrush tree downed Sept. 10, 2017, as Hurricane Irma passed through Anna Maria Island was replaced on the holiday inspiring the planting of trees across the state. Keep Manatee Beautiful donated a $150 replacement tree for the Jan. 19 observance of Florida Arbor Day at Memorial Gardens just south of Holmes Beach City Hall. The weeping boyette bottlebrush tree is a “small but spectacular” evergreen tree, according to floridagarden.com. The Australian native is easy to grow and loves warmth, moisture and sun in open or woodland sites, according to Dennis Groh of the Holmes Beach Parks and Beautification Committee. “It’s not native, but it’s Florida friendly,” Groh said. “It’s not invasive.” Chair Zan Fuller of the parks committee welcomed about a dozen people to the 20-minute ceremony. Holmes Beach Mayor Bob Johnson issued a Florida Arbor Day proclamation, which listed the benefits of planting trees. Holmes Beach, active in the Tree City USA program, also participates in National Arbor Day in

April. National Arbor Day started April 10, 1872, with the planting of 1 million trees in Nebraska. “Every time I read the history about Arbor Day, I get chills,” Johnson said under gray, cloudy skies with temps near 50. “Wherever they are planted, trees are a source of joy and spiritual renewal.” Bob Longworth and Ingrid McClellan represented

Keep Manatee Beautiful. The Holmes Beach public works department planted the tree before the ceremony. Senior forester Eric Strickland represented the Florida Forest Service. The parks committee will next meet at 10 a.m. Wednesday, Feb. 7, at city hall, 5801 Marina Drive. Dennis Groh of the Holmes Beach Parks and Beautification Committee, left, and Mayor Bob Johnson heft ceremonial golden shovels Jan. 19 while committee chair Zan Fuller motions to the new weeping boyette bottlebrush tree planted for Florida Arbor Day at city hall. Islander Photo: Terry O’Connor

THE ISLANDER n Jan. 24, 2018 n 25

Holmes Beach gets a grip on building with site-plan master list By Terry O’Connor Islander Reporter There was a time in the not too distant past when the Holmes Beach building department lacked a firm grip on the amount of construction activity going on in the city. Those days are over. A reorganized and updated Holmes Beach master list now shows nearly three dozen site plans in the building department pipeline. “One of the requirements we have McGuinness as a city is to validate on an annual basis the site plans that are still valid and being followed,” said Mayor Bob Johnson. “That’s not something that’s been done in the past.” Site plans start a chain of activity. Construction permits must be approved before projects can be built and inspected by building official Jim McGuinness and his five-person team. The mayor said it’s just one more modernization technique the city now employs. “There was a lot of stuff done improperly in the past,” Johnson said. “This is catching up.” Code continued from page 24

pulled the city pickup alongside piles of household goods, spilling over to a lot across the street. “This is the hard part,” Thomas said as he went to speak to the family of a woman being evicted. Family members apparently discovered the woman was something of a hoarder when they came to help her move. Daughter Jamie Kanter of Tampa had tears in her eyes as she let Thomas know they were making progress on removal of the picture frames, furniture, dishes, pots and pans and holiday decorations in the yard. A few neighbors were picking through the goods, and hauling off items with the family’s permission.

Many site plans involve buildings islanders drive past or see every day. Permits listed on the first site plan master list include familiar names, such as the Anna Maria Island Centre, 3200 E. Bay Drive; Benderson Development, 3214 and 3602 E. Bay Drive; CVS, 605 Manatee Ave.; Dunkin’ Donuts, 3302 E. Bay Drive; Island Lumber, 213 54th St.; LaPensee Plumbing, 401 Manatee Ave.; Ugly Grouper, 5307 Marina Drive; and Jessie’s Island Store, 5424 Marina Drive. There’s also a site plan listed for the Barefoot Tiki Bar & Cafe, 5307 Marina Drive, which was replaced in 2015 by the Ugly Grouper. Johnson said the Barefoot Tiki Bar site plan was taken over by the Ugly Grouper but was still shown as an active site plan in the city records before the latest update. Hence, the need for the site plan master list. “That’s an inventory, a work in progress,” Johnson said “This is over a period of time.” McGuinness said the Barefoot Tiki Bar was listed on the first draft of the site plan list. “It’s since been revised to show the Ugly Grouper superseded Barefoot Tiki Bar,” he said. A site plan may require numerous permits to implement, according to McGuinness, and undergo

hundreds of inspections, as in the case of the $29 million Waterline Marina Resort & Beach Club, which took more than three years to go from permit application to receiving a certificate of occupancy Nov. 22, 2017. “How many permits are required depends on what type of building you have,” McGuinness said. “It all depends on how complicated the site plan is.” At all construction sites, a project could require permits for work on roofs, windows, doors, decks, ramps, siding, ceiling fans, plumbing, electrical, mechanical, gas, alarms, carport, water heaters, air conditioners, animal shelters, swimming pools and other remodeling. All permitted work must be inspected and approved, sometimes in stages, as was done for Waterline to speed the process. McGuinness said the new site plan master list will be continually updated. “Now that we are fully staffed we can actually implement this,” he said.

Despite being upset, Kanter said she believes the city has treated her family well. “JT is very approachable and here to help,” she said before turning back to the cleanup. Thomas worked in code enforcement with Sarasota, Bradenton and Manatee County before coming to Holmes Beach nearly three years ago. He said helping people in distress is part of the job. “On to the next fire,” he says upon leaving the A site plan on file in the Holmes Beach building Kanters. department will allow the Ugly Grouper owners to Editor’s Note: Islander reporter Terry O’Connor revise their entertainment area — adjacent to the big accompanied Holmes Beach code enforcement offi- ugly grouper showpiece — and add indoor seating. Islander Photo: Terry O’Connor cer JT Thomas Jan. 17 on the job.

26 n JAN. 24, 2018 n THE ISLANDER

A winter sunrise from the docks near the Cortez Kitchen and a temperature of about 55 degrees. Islander Photo: Lisa Neff

By Lisa Neff

Another winter sunrise

Many islanders who work off AMI tell me how they unwind and ease into paradise while driving west on the Palma Sola Causeway to Perico Island and then across the Anna Maria Island Bridge. You know the drive. There’s no reason to honk horns at motorists turning left. there’s no reason to shake a fist at motorists going the speed limit. these commuters from paradise just sigh and marvel ad they approach the island Neff after a hard day’s work. My first year living in Anna Maria, I was commuting along with these islanders. A reporter at the Bradenton Herald, where I was working, was the first to tell me how she forgot any cares and troubles of the workaday life when she reached the causeway. I looked at the drive differently from that day on. My schedule is different now, as I work two jobs — one mostly 9 a.m.-5 p.m. reporting from a home office and the other, my local editing job at the Islander office in the early morning. I take a break between the shifts to refocus and often drive my Ford Fiesta — aka Speedy — east on Manatee Avenue or Cortez Road into a sunrise.

Somewhere along the way, I’ll stop to savor the scene. Sometimes the colors in a sunrise drive me off the road, so to speak. Other times I plan the stop, and park in the dark to wait the dawn. I waited the morning I wrote this column. I turned off Cortez Road and drove back to the docks by Sarasota Bay. I sat on the edge of the wooden platform with my “editors: Getting the words right since 3100 B.C.” coffee mug by my left hand and my camera by my right hand. I don’t always feel compelled to take photos of sunrise, but I take a good number and, wanting to improve my shots, I reached out to a friend and professional photographer. Some points: • Winter in Florida is superb for photographing

sunrises and sunsets because cold fronts mean cleaner dry air with less moisture, allowing light to come through. And light is key to stellar sunrises and awesome images. • Contrarians seeing clouds might skip a sunrise or sunset but it’s the clouds that catch colors, making dramatic landscape or seascape photographs. • Don’t aim to take “golden” sunrise photographs. At sunrise, the color temperature is cooler — like the air — and short wavelength blue and violet tones reach eyes and cameras. • With cooler temperatures, make use of the low fog at dawn to create atmosphere in an image. • the sun doesn’t need to be the focal point or subject of the photograph. Look for the effects of the Please see SANdSCRiPT, Next PAGe By Sandy Ambrogi, sandy@islander.org

AME kids prepare to face challenges How kind are you? this week, students at Anna Maria elementary will be taking the Great Kindness Challenge. As part of a national effort to minimize bullying, students will compete in a kindness challenge. the junior edition, for kindergartners and firstgraders, includes a checklist of challenges such as “invite a new friend to play” and “smile at 25 people.” the school edition for kids in second- to fifthgrade includes challenges such as “offer to help your custodian,” “carry your friend’s books” and “help someone if they fall down.” Students will be challenged to complete as many items on the checklist as they can, as well as commit “random acts of kindness” throughout the week.

Tacos

Burgers

Along with the checklists, kids will be asked to wear an outfit in accordance with the theme of the day. Jan. 22, students were to wear Anna Maria elementary shirts based on the theme of “AMe students are kind students.” Jan. 23, tropical attire was planned for the theme, “Ride the wave to kindness.” Jan. 24, students will wear tie-dye or an Anna Maria elementary Peace shirt in accordance with “Peace, love and kindness.” Jan. 25, students will display their favorite sports team to “score points by being kind.” Jan. 26, matching the theme “crazy for kindness,” students will be encouraged to wear crazy socks. — Bianca Benedí

AME calendar

• tuesday, Jan. 23, second-grade field trip to Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, Sarasota. • 5-7:30 p.m. tuesday, Jan. 23, SteM night with Holmes Beach Police Department Chief Bill tokajer’s Grill Crew and Mad Science presentation in the auditorium. • 9 a.m. thursday, Jan. 25, kindergarten field trip to Mixon Fruit Farms, Bradenton. • 8:30-11:30 a.m. Friday, Feb. 2, blood drive. • 1:15 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 7, early release. • Monday, Feb. 19, Presidents Day, no school. • tuesday, Feb. 20, third-grade play • Saturday, Feb. 24, AMe-PtO Fling dinner, dance and auction, location tBA. Anna Maria elementary is at 4700 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. For more information, call the school at 941708-5525.

Seafood

Breakfast ~ Lunch ~ Dinner 7:30am - 10pm Daily Live Music ~ Gulf View Patio Happy Hour 12-6 Daily & All Day Sunday

Family Friendly...bring the kiddos!

www.WickedCantina.com 101 7th Street N., Bradenton Beach Fl. 34217 (941) 281-2990 NEW ~ Fall 2017! 1603 N. Tamiami Tr., Sarasota, Fl. (941) 706-2395

Signature ISLAND gifts! NEW! Navy mugs,

$10 each. New all-cotton AMI tote bags, $5. White and tie-dye “More-Than-aMullet-Wrapper” T-shirts, $10-$15, and AMI stickers, $2. Come shop at 3218 E. Bay Drive, Holmes Beach, sandwiched between Walgreens and the bagel cafe!

THE ISLANDER n JAN. 24, 2018 n 27

Anna Maria Island included in national shorebird survey

By ChrisAnn Silver esformes Islander Reporter Winter on Anna Maria Island provides an opportunity to see shorebirds on their winter migration. this time of year also provides state and federal organizations an opportunity to work with local groups to survey migratory shorebirds that may be in decline. the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, as a partner in the “American oystercatcher working group,” is repeating a survey it partnered on five years ago with other state and national agencies, to determine population status and trends across the east Coast and Gulf of Mexico coastline, where the birds winter. the American oystercatcher, which inhabits a variety of coastal habitats, is a winter visitor to the island and its population has been dropping for several years. It is designated “threatened” by the state and is not listed, but considered a “species of high concern” by the federal government. Suzi Fox, Anna Maria Island turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring executive director, and volunteer Skip Coyne, conducted a biweekly islandwide bird survey Jan. 16 with a focus on the oystercatcher, to contribute to the survey. the pair covered the beaches on an AtV, counting migratory shorebirds, including sanderlings, willets and ruddy turnstones. While oystercatchers were seen in late 2017 and early January on the beaches, Fox and Coyne did not spot any Jan. 16. Fox said for several years, off-and-on, she has seen a flock of about 25 oystercatchers on the beach near the 5000 block of Gulf Drive in Holmes Beach. “When there are only 25 birds you really notice when there are even one or two less when they return

Suzi Fox, Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring executive director, looks through binoculars Jan. 16 during an islandwide survey of American oystercatchers. Islander Photo: ChrisAnn Silver Esformes the following year,” Fox said. While Fox and Coyne conducted their survey on the beach, a pilot flew over in a plane for an aerial survey of the Gulf Coast. According to the FWC, the survey will provide an estimation of the oystercatcher population, allowing agencies to map population distribution, roost sites and track habitat change and availability. Data from the survey will help conservationists develop a plan to protect the species. “this is invaluable info for the FWC,” Fox said. “If the birds need to be moved into a more protected

Special: Cream of Mushroom Soup. Onion Schnitzel with brown gravy over Potatoes or Spätzle and a side salad. HAXEN FRI-SAT NIGHTS (reserve ahead) Dinner Monday-Saturday 5-9

941.778.1320 http://schnitzel.house 3246 E. Bay Drive, Holmes Beach

category for conservation, these surveys are how we know.” For more information about shorebirds or to report a sick or injured shorebird, contact Fox at suzilfox@ gmail.com or 941-778-5638.

Ice Cube stays toasty at TECO

A tagged manatee known as Ice Cube frolics Jan. 21 with a herd of manatees at Tampa Electric Co. at Apollo Beach. Hundreds of manatees take refuge in the warm waters discharged at the power plant. Ice Cube spent the majority of last summer in Palma Solo Bay, and was taken by Sea to Shore Dec. 14 to avoid cold stress, a deadly condition in manatees. Islander Photo: Sandy Ambrogi

SANdSCRiPT CONtINUeD FROM PAGe 20

sun on the land or sea and photograph how the sun illuminates docks, rocks, boats, bridges and tree lines in the distance. • Get into position early enough to see the full sunrise, about 45 minutes, because you don’t want to shoot once the sun’s over the horizon. • If using manual camera settings, generally controlling the depth of field is more important than shutter speed. You want a longer depth of field for the clearest, cleanest photos. • tripods can be essential when the light isn’t bright enough for slow shutter speeds. • tPe/the Photographer’s ephemeris is a useful tool to plan outdoor photography in natural light. the smartphone app shows how light will fall, day or night, for any location. So maybe I’ll see you on the Palma Sola Causeway or the Cortez docks? About 6:35 a.m.?

An American oystercatcher combs the water’s edge of the Gulf of Mexico for food Dec. 11, 2017, near the 5600 block of Gulf Drive in Holmes Beach. Islander Photo: Courtesy Pete Gross

NATIONALLY ACCLAIMED! º/ iÀiÊ ÃÊ Ê ÛiÊÃ ViÀiÀÊÌ > Ê Ì iÊ ÛiÊ vÊv `°»ÊpÊ ° °Ê- >Ü

OPEN 7 DAYS CATERING – we deliver for large parties 941.778.6614

3007 GULF DRIVE HOLMES BEACH UÊ ÀL iÃLLµ°V

UÊ iÊ ÊUÊ >ÀÀÞÊ"ÕÌÊUÊ"«i ÊÇÊ >ÞÃÉ££\Îä ÊÊx{äÈÊ >À >Ê À ÛiÊUÊ Ã > `Ê- «« }Ê i ÌiÀ iÃÊ i>V ÊUÊ {£°ÇÇn°xä Ó

ALL UNDER

ON THE PIER

$10!

EVERY SATURDAY & SUNDAY 11AM-2PM

CHECK OUT OUR MENU ONLINE AT OYSTERBAR.NET/PIER CALL FOR BEACH-TO-PIER SHUTTLE!

200 Bridge St, Bradenton Beach, FL *AVAILABLE AT PIER LOCATION ONLY. AGES 21+ ONLY.

28 n JAN. 24, 2018 n THE ISLANDER

Flag football dominates the field at community center By Kevin P. Cassidy Islander Reporter Youth flag football at the Center of Anna Maria Island completed its fifth week of action and the haves are beginning to separate themselves from the have nots. Slimâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Place is securely on top of the 14-17 division with a 6-0 record after rolling to a 32-6 victory over second-place Salty Printing Jan. 17. the loss evens Salty Printingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s record to 3-3. Blalock Walters moved into third place with a 1-4 record after earning a 34-12 victory over Signarama in the Cassidy second game of the evening, dropping Signarama to 1-4. the 11-13 division is a bit more competitive with Planet Stone with a 5-1 record after dropping a 38-26 decision to second-place Blue Lagoon during action Jan. 17. the victory improves Blue Lagoonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s record to 4-2, one game ahead of third-place tylerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Ice Cream, which improved to 3-3 after earning a 14-0 shutout victory over winless USA Fence during Jan. 17 action. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s virtually anyoneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s guess who the class of the seven-team 8-10 division is with five teams bunched closely together in the standings. Bins Be Clean is on top by virtue of playing one more game and a 4-1-1 record, edging Island Charms by a 16-10 score Jan. 16. the loss drops sixth-place Island Charms to 1-3-1 on the season. truly Nolen is right on Binsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; heels with a 4-1 record after defeating Cortez Pump 30-20 Jan. 16. the loss drops Cortez Pump to fifth place with a 2-2-1 record. Beach Bums, which is alone in third with a 3-1-1 record, was off last week. Progressive Cabinetry improved its record to 3-2 and a fourth-place spot in the standings on defeating winless Cloud Pest Control 25-14. Action continues as teams jockey for a favorable seed for the playoffs, which are quickly approaching. Adult football completes week 2 the adult flag football league at the center completed its second week of action and the standings reflect that with one unbeaten team, Bins Be Clean at 2-0, and one winless team, Beach Bums at 0-2. Beach House Real estate, Lancaster Design, Moss Builders

and Cabb Cleaning are sandwiched in the standings with matching 1-1 records. Bins Be Clean opened the Jan. 18 action with an easy 31-7 victory over Beach House Real estate, while Moss Builders edged Beach Bums 32-28 in the second game of the evening. Cabb Cleaning rolled to an easy 24-6 victory over Lancaster Design to close out action for the night. Adult action continues 6:30 p.m. thursday, Jan. 25, when Lancaster Design takes on Beach Bums. Cabb Cleaning versus Bins Be Clean follows in the second game, while Moss Builders closes out the action for the night when they take on Beach House. Center wrestlers bring home hardware the centerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s wrestling team competed in the Brandon High School Pee Wee Wrestling tournament Jan. 20 in Brandon and improved on their inaugural tournament results at Manatee High. Jaxon Henry, Liam Coleman and ethan Sackett all brought home championship medals in their respective age and weight divisions. Stone Smith, Fox Smith, evan talucci, Dylan Sato and RJ Phelan earned second-place finishes, while Mikey Coleman added a third-place finish. AMi dolphin dash update the Jan. 17 Anna Maria elementary Dolphin Dash report overlooked the contribution of the race sponsor, the Bradenton Runners Club. the race was a success thanks to the contributions of club members and volunteers, including tom Orehowski, Jesse Brisson and the school Parent teach Organization. the event benefits the AMe PtO and draws 200250 participants, according to race coordinator Bonnie Ferran. the Bradenton Runners Club promotes the sport of running and related activities. It sanctions road races and cross-country events throughout the year and also sponsors social and charitable events. the club provides college scholarships to deserving area runners, as well as financial aid to send promising runners to camps. the BRC welcomes everyone to join the club in weekly group runs and walks. Membership is not a requirement. For more information on how to get involved with

Vince and Neda Uliano from Pennsylvania fished Dec. 18 in Sarasota Bay using shiners. Their reward was several nice redfish, although the Ulianos kept only what they needed from their day of fishing with Capt. Warren Girle for one meal before retuning home.

the Bradenton Runners Club, visit the website at bradentonrunnersclub.com. Key Royale golf news A full week of golf action got started Jan. 15 at the Key Royale Club in Holmes Beach with the men competing in a nine-hole, modified-Stableford system match. Jere Rice grabbed individual honors with a score of plus-6, a point better than John estok. the women were on the course Jan. 16 for a nine-hole, individual-low-net match in four flights. Joy Kaiser grabbed the top spot in Flight A with a 1-under-par 31, while Phyllis Roeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s even-par 32 put her alone in second place. Carol Patterson fired a 3-under-par 29 to win Flight B by two strokes over Sharon tarras and Sue Wheeler, who finished in a tie for second place. tootie Wagner was another shot back in third. Jana Samuels even-par 32 was good for first place in Flight C. Beth Lindeman and Barb estok finished in a tie for second place with matching 2-over-par 34s. Jan Perkins carded a 2-under-par 30 to grab the top spot in Flight D by a stroke over second-place finisher Amy tripp. Markie Ksiazek was alone in third place with an even-par 32. eleven golfers braved the cold weather Jan. 18 to play a nine-hole scramble. the team of Hoyt Miller, Art McMillan and Larry Pippel combined on an evenpar 32 to take first place. Horseshoe news three teams advanced to the knockout stage during Jan. 17 horseshoe action at the Anna Maria City Hall horseshoe pits. the team of Bob Mason and tom Farrington drew the bye into the finals and watched as Adin Shank and Bob Brown advanced to the finals with a 21-15 victory over Bob Rowley and John Crawford. Mason and Farrington took advantage of a lucky draw by defeating Shank and Brown 23-16 to earn the dayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s bragging rights. the Jan. 20 games saw the team of Steve Doyle and Sam Samuels post the only 3-0 pool-play record to lay claim as the outright champs. Play gets underway at 9 a.m. every Wednesday and Saturday at the Anna Maria City Hall pits. Warmups begin at 8:45 a.m. followed by random team selection. there is no charge to play and everyone is welcome. Tryouts this week select soccer team the center is holding tryouts for a U12 select soccer team at 6:30 p.m Friday, Jan. 26, at the center, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria. Players must attend the tryout to be considered for the team. Rick Hurst, city commissioner in Holmes Beach, is coaching. the cost of $275 includes a uniform, soccer ball and bag and tournament-related costs. tournaments are planned Feb. 16-18 in St. Pete; April 14-15 in Bradenton; April 28-29 in Fort Myers; and May 4-6 in Brandon. For more information, call 941-778-1908.

Anna Maria Island Tides

Date

Jan 24 Jan 25 Jan 26 Jan 27 Jan 28 Jan 29 Jan 30 Jan 31

4:41a 6:30a 8:37a 10:21a 11:30a 12:16p 12:50p 1:17p

HIGH

1.2 4:57p 1.0 5:46p 0.9 6:40p 1.0 7:37p 1.1 8:34p 1.1 9:31p 1.2 10:25p 1.2 11:18p

1.7 1.8 2.0 2.1 2.2 2.3 2.3 2.3

10:23a 12:09a 1:30a 2:41a 3:42a 4:35a 5:23a 6:06a

LOW

Moon

0.3 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; â&#x20AC;&#x201D; 0.1 11:07a 0.6 -0.2 11:57a 0.8 -0.5 12:54p 0.9 -0.7 1:57p 1.0 -0.9 2:59p 1.0 -1.0 3:58p 0.9 -0.9 4:54p 0.8

1st

Full

AM City Pier tides; Cortez high tides 7 minutes later â&#x20AC;&#x201D; lows 1:06 later

Fishing Charters Wet Slips Fuel Dock Full Service Marine Mechanic Tackle Shop and Water Sports -ARINA $RIVE s (OLMES "EACH WWW +EYES-ARINA COM s

Make one stop to shop for the Dock!

marine docktor Sales â&#x20AC;˘ Service â&#x20AC;˘ Supplies & More

â&#x20AC;˘ Jet Ski Lifts & Boat Lifts â&#x20AC;˘ Remote Controls â&#x20AC;˘ Stainless Motors â&#x20AC;˘ Cables and Switches

â&#x20AC;˘ Dock Accessories â&#x20AC;˘ Piling Cones â&#x20AC;˘ Aluminum Ladders

Open Mon-Fri 8-4, Saturday by Appointment 12044 Cortez Rd. W, (941) 792-7657 marinedocktor@msn.com

THE ISLANDER n JAN. 24, 2018 n 29

Don’t let cold weather put a damper on your fishing plans By Capt. Danny Stasny Islander Reporter After experiencing some of the coldest weather of the year, it’s hard not to get discouraged when trying to catch some fish. But, you’re in luck. Wintertime fishing around Anna Maria Island can be quite productive if you practice some tried-and-true methods. First, you’ll want to target species of fish that can tolerate cooler water temps. Sheepshead are a good bet. In fact, they thrive in the cooler water and will take a shrimp when it’s offered. Stasny Black drum and redfish also are a good bet in cold conditions. Next, you need to give some thought on where to fish. For the sheepshead, reefs, wrecks, piers and docks are the preferred habitat. For the black drum and reds, try fishing docks in areas that are sheltered, such as residential canals. In these areas, the water is slightly warmed by the seawalls, which can make a big difference in the bite. Fishing offshore is a good bet as long as the seas are calm. Fishing deeper water when the temperatures are most consistent can be quite good for a variety of species — including hogfish, Key West grunts, flounder and even a few snapper. Lastly, bait choice can play a major role in the overall success for cold weather anglers. Live shrimp are a great bait for wintertime fishing. If you’re into artificials, I suggest using soft plastics combined with a jig head. However, when using artificials like these, you want to slow down your retrieve, or the action of the jig. In cooler waters, the fish are less active because they are trying to conserve energy to keep warm. this being said, a fast erratic retrieve will most

Scott Willis, left, and dad Mark, both of Bradenton, show off their tripletails from a Jan. 11 guided fishing trip with Capt. Danny Stasny, center, of Southernaire Fishing Charters.

likely turn a fish off or spook it. Slow your roll and you might have better success. Capt. Rick Gross of Fishy Business is targeting sheepshead around the artificial reefs in tampa Bay and the Gulf of Mexico. A small piece of shrimp combined with a 1/2-ounce knocker rig is attracting sheepies up to 5 pounds, although most average 2-3 pounds. Casting shrimp under residential docks and canals is yielding success for the anglers on the Fishy Business. In these areas, redfish and black drum are cooperating. Capt. Jason Stock is working offshore when the weather permits. While offshore, wreck fishing with surface poppers is still driving large amberjack to the surface in some explosive strikes. AJs up to 74 pounds are hooking up in this fashion for Stock’s clients. Fishing ledges while offshore is resulting in hogfish and lane snapper. And Stock reports there are plenty of tripletail being found offshore around floating debris. Capt. Warren Girle is fishing inshore, waiting out the rough waters in the Gulf of Mexico. Fishing residential docks and canals throughout Sarasota Peter Brandon and Rick Platz of Canada and Kevin Bay is putting fish in the cooler for Girle’s anglers. Hendrickson from Atlanta fished inshore Jan. 16 and Using live shrimp as bait is attracting the attention of keeper-size sheepshead, black drum and redfish. Also caught several redfish using shrimp for bait. The in the canals are random jack crevalle and bluefish, were guided by Capt. Warren Girle.

Fishing Charters Capt. Warren Girle

Southernaire Fishing Charters

which adds a nice mix to the bite. Capt. Aaron Lowman is running charters to nearshore and offshore ledges when the seas are calm. By using live shrimp on a knocker rig in these areas, Lowman is finding a variety of species, including hogfish snapper, porgies and flounder. On the windier days when the Gulf of Mexico is too rough to navigate, Lowman is working around the Intracoastal Waterway and its adjoining bays. In these areas, dock fishing is proving prosperous for clients, who are reeling in catches of sheepshead, black drum and redfish. Jim Malfese at the Rod & Reel Pier says despite the cold temperatures, pier fishing is producing action. Pier fishers using live shrimp as bait are catching black drum and sheepshead with some frequency. Redfish are in the mix for anglers with a little luck on their side. to target any of these species, it’s always good to use a weighted rig so the shrimp sits on the bottom, allowing the fish to easily swim over and eat the shrimp and the hook. Capt. David White of Anna Maria Charters is targeting pompano along the edges of any of the grass flats where the shallow water dumps into a channel. He’s also finding fish along the beaches. to catch this sought-after dinner fare, White is using Doc’s Goofy jigs or a reasonable facsimile. to sweeten the deal, a small piece of shrimp is added to the jig. this adds scent, which often results in more bites. Sheepshead are being found by White, especially around docks and bridges, where his clients are taking home a fish fry. Live shrimp on a bottom rig is producing the bite. Send high-resolution photos and fishing reports to fish@islander.org.

Nick, Adam, and Rob Seal of Burlington, Ontario, show off their limit of tripletail, caught Jan. 10 on live, select shrimp as bait on a charter fishing trip with Capt. David White.

CAPT. AARON LOWMAN 'ULF "AY &ISHINGs4ARPON 53'! ,ICENSED AND )NSURED

INSHORE RE Redﬁsh Snook

O OFFSHORE SSnapper G Grouper

LIGHT G TACKLE C • FLY Over 30 years experience in local waters • USCG Licensed Full / Half Day Trips • 941.387.8383 (H) • 941.232.8636 (C) www.captainwarren.com Facebook: Captain Warren

941.465.8932 AnnaMariaFishing Guide.com

DOCKED AT SEAFOOD SHACK

30 n JAN. 24, 2018 n THE ISLANDER

isl

A shopper browses the offerings in the new Pineapple Junktion Co-op, which has replaced the former decor store that closed in September 2017. the business is now divided into areas for rent, including wall space. Islander Photo: Sandy Ambrogi

biz

BY SANDY AMBROGI

Renos, remodels and shuﬄes

Hold on! The tacos will return the 200 block of Anna Maria’s Pine Avenue is a bit jammed with construction trucks as Poppo’s taqueria at 212C Pine Ave. undertakes a major renovation. Zoe Piccirillo, assistant to the general manager at the Poppo’s UtC mall-area location, said Jan. 17 work is well underway, and islanders can expect to be munching on tacos, burritos and quesadillas again “very soon.” the taqueria posted on Facebook about the plans for the Anna Maria restaurant: “In order to meet the demand and serve you better we will be doing a full remodel, beginning Sunday, Jan. 7. We’ll be closed throughout the remodel, but plan to open by our fiveyear anniversary on Jan 26.” “We owe these five years of success to you.” Look out for the celebration to come... Junktion becomes a co-op and how that works Marcia Mattick and tera O’Brien opened Pineapple Junktion in May 2016 and the store quickly became a maze of consigned antiques and rehabbed furniture, offbeat decorator items and some pretty amazing pieces of wall art. Rewind to last fall, when the owners were searching for a way to retain the pricey space at 425 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, and re-imagine a less time-consuming enterprise. the co-op idea bloomed. the Junktion is now split into stations and wall space, each rented to individuals and businesses to show their merchandise. Artwork, furniture and knick-knacks still abound, but the new

configuration makes for easy shopping and more room to maneuver the showroom. Only a few spaces remain, and renting requires a three-month initial commitment, then month-to-month options. Pineapple Junktion is open 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Saturday and noon-5 p.m. Sunday. Local eclectic cafe moves art It’s a feast for the eyes in addition to the stomach. Ginny’s and Jane e’s Cafe and Gift Store, 9807 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria, has moved its local artists’ offerings to dedicated spaces at the front of the building. Retail and consignment manager Amanda Foster, whose parents own the busy eatery, said Jan. 16 that each artist now has a dedicated space. Currently, Foster says, there are more than 40 artists offering their creations at ginny’s and Jane e’s. “this will help our artists manage their inventory better and keep track of sales. Artists have 120

A shopper browses the offerings in the new Pineapple Junktion Co-op, formerly a decor store that closed in September 2017. The business is now divided into areas for rent, including wall space. Islander Photo: Sandy Ambrogi

days to move an item, then it must be marked down or removed,” Foster said. Previously, artists sometimes had a hard time managing their wares throughout the store. “We have items from $3 to $500 and average selling around 1,000 pieces per month. It’s a lot to keep up with,” Foster said. “this is working better.” Ginny’s and Jane e’s is open daily 7 a.m.-4 p.m. Share the news Have business news around Anna Maria? An award to brag on? A new store or a new location? Send an email to sandy@islander.org with information and tips. And stay busy!

Business news

Does your business celebrate achievements? Maybe you’ve just opened the doors, received an award or staff deserves kudos. Submit your information to news@islander.org.

LO C A L LY K N OW N . G LO B A L LY C O N N E C T E D.

ANNA MARIA ISLAND 528 72nd Street Mark Boehmig 941-807-6936 A4204971 $2,995,000

ANNA MARIA ISLAND 532 70th Street George Myers 941-224-6021 A4184561 $1,750,000

ANNA MARIA ISLAND 871 N Shore Drive Kathy Marshall 941-900-9777 A4204189 $1,699,000

ANNA MARIA ISLAND 2307 Avenue C Laurie M Mock 941-232-3665 A4205599 $989,000

ANNA MARIA ISLAND 727 Holly Road Barbara Dumbaugh 941-350-3743 A4193232 $950,000

ANNA MARIA ISLAND 529 69th Street Mark Boehmig 941-807-6936 A4198504 $779,000

ANNA MARIA ISLAND 413 Bay Palms Drive Ralph & Megg Faillace 941-713-9142 A4184679 $725,000

ANNA MARIA ISLAND 216 83rd Street Laurie M Mock 941-232-3665 A4203519 $725,000

ANNA MARIA ISLAND 501 70th Street Laura Rulon 941-896-2757 A4205799 $667,000

BR ADENTON 4919 52nd Avenue W Leah Secondo 941-545-4430 A4199274 $585,000

ANNA MARIA ISLAND 600 Manatee Avenue 224 Susan Nemitz 941-237-0045 A4204610 $355,000

BR ADENTON 5724 8th Avenue Drive W Debbie Capobianco & Kristi Berger 941-704-2394 A4203129 $300,000

BR ADENTON 3440 77th Street W 201 Rich Sporl 941-761-7349 A4206654 $399,000

NEW CONSTRUCTION

MSC MORTGAGE | MSC TITLE | MS&C COMMERCIAL NEW HOMES & CONDOMINIUMS | RENTAL

OPEN HOUSES SUNDAYS 1–4 PM

michaelsaunders.com

8 8 8 . 552 . 52 2 8

ANNA MARIA ISLAND 101 66th Street 9 Ken Kavanaugh, Jr & Margo Story 941-799-1943 A4178549 $680,000

RENTAL ANNA MARIA ISLAND 309 65th Street A 3 Bed 2 Bath $2,600

michaelsaunders.com L I C E N S E D R E A L E S TAT E B R O K E R

Motel makeover

John and Suzette Buchan greet guests Jan. 11. outdoors at their Rod and Reel Resort in Anna Maria. The Buchans hosted an open house to celebrate the completion of the motel renovation.

Karen Rasmussen of Ocala, left, and Jo Masciulli of Boston, tour the rooms at the Rod and Reel Resort grand re-opening Jan. 11. The pair, one-time college roommates, met on Anna Maria Island for a reunion, saw the open house and stopped for a look.

Members of the Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce join owners John and Suzette Buchan Jan. 11, for a ribbon-cutting at the entrance to the rehabbed Rod and Reel Resort at 877 N. Shore Drive, Anna Maria. A crowd of locals and seasonal island visitors streamed in for tours of the motel and to enjoy libations, appetizers, music and giveaways. Islander Photos: Sandy Ambrogi

THE ISLANDER n JAN. 24, 2018 n 31

BizCal

Chambers host business networking events

Let’s do lunch! the Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce will hold its bimonthly networking lunch at 11:30 a.m. Wednesday, Feb. 7, at enRich Bistro, 5629 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton. Cost is $15 for members and $25 for nonmembers and reservations are requested by phone or email. For more information, call the island chamber at 941-778-1541, visit the office and tourist center at 5313 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, or go to the website at annamariaislandchamber.org. the Longboat Key Chamber of Commerce BAH — business-after-hours mixer — will be 5-7 p.m. thursday, Jan. 25, at Longboat Massage, 5350 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key. Cost is $5 for members and $10 for nonmembers. For information about the LBK chamber or reservations for events, call the chamber at 941-383-2466, visit the website at longboatkeychamber.com or the office at 5390 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key.

Amanda Escobia, Julie Gartside and Jen Bowman listen to introductions Dec. 6, 2017, at the AMI Chamber of Commerce lunch at the Bridge Tender Inn and Dockside Bar in Bradenton Beach. Islander Photo: Sandy Ambrogi

32 n JAN. 24, 2018 n THE ISLANDER

Sandy’s Lawn Service Inc. Established in 1983 Residential and Commercial Full service lawn maintenance Landscaping – Clean-up Hauling tree trimming Licensed & Insured

Paradise Improvements

941.792.5600

Kitchen and Bath Remodeling Specialist Replacement Doors and Windows

Andrew Chennault

FULLY LICENSED AND INSURED Island References Lic#CBC056755

CBC 1253471

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

References available • 941-720-7519

Bed: A bargain!

King, Queen, Full & Twin, pre-owned from $30 new/used. 941-922-5271 www.sleepking.net

islanderClassiFieds ITEMS FOR SALE

HELP WANTED Continued

PACK AND PLAY portable crib, $40, glass-topped card table-sized table, $10. 941-405-4041. 220 Gladiolus, Anna Maria.

DELIVERY DRIVER/WAREHOUSE man. Work on Anna Maria Island. Part- or full-time. Resume to: annamariaisland@hotmail.com.

COMPUTER: DELL DUAL core, refurbished, $50. 941-756-6728.

DUNKIN DONUTS NOW hiring full-time, parttime. 941-242-0260.

QUEEN MATTRESS, AS new, double recliner, nearly new. $100 each. 941-778-5542.

PART-TIME OFFICE HELP needed at The Islander two and a half days a week. General office work with some bookkeeping required. Send email inquiry to news@islander.org.

FREEBIE ITEMS FOR SALE Individuals may place one free ad with up to three items, each priced $100 or less, 15 words or less. FREE, one week, must be submitted online. Email classifieds@islander.org, fax toll-free 1-866-3629821. (limited time offer)

ANNOUNCEMENTS FREE BOOK PRESENTATION : Manage cancer treatment side effects naturally . More information www.newmedicalfrontiers.com or call 941447-0544. WANTED: WORKOUT DVDs, XBox, Wii units with games for Ministry of Presence for kids and teens in Haiti. Deliver to The Islander, 3218 E. Bay Drive, Holmes Beach. WANTED: YOUR OLD cell phone for recycling. Deliver to The Islander, 3218 E. Bay Drive, Holmes Beach. FREE GUN LOCK courtesy of Project Childsafe, FWC and Holmes Beach Police Department. Pick up at The Islander office, 3218 E. Bay Drive, Holmes Beach. Don’t be sorry, be safe.

GARAGE SALES

$YDLODEOH $We

ROSER THRIFT SHOP: Open 9:30 a.m.-2p.m. Tuesday and Thursday and Friday, 10 a.m.-1p.m. Saturday. Donations preferred 9 a.m.-11 a.m. Wednesdays. 511 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. 941-779-2733.

AMI CENTRE, 3218 E. BAY DRIVE, HOLMES BEACH 941 778-7978 • WWW.ISLANDER.ORG

AdoptA-Pet

LOST & FOUND FOUND: A WATCH found at the beach was turned in to the Holmes Beach Police Department Jan. 7. Call for more information, 941-7085800, ext. 243. Rollo is a happy boy! He’s a 3-year-old mixed breed. He has all his shots and he’s in great health. Available to adopt: www.moonraceranimalrescue.com or email moonraceranimalrescue@gmail.com Call lisa Williams at 941-345-2441 or visit The islander next to Walgreens in Holmes Beach for more …

D E W A R

A M A N A

N A N N Y

T H E B O S S

H E L L B O Y

E N L I S T S

T O H A T E B R A A D A N S S T U H O P

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

S P O T S

W I L O Z A R K S P O O H

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

A L I A N E W W A S I A A N S B B H A R K R E N T S I R T V I A T E J U S T M B H A L E H E A R A N Y M L D S S I N O M A Y O D I E T B R E Y

E V I L E S T

S E C L A O

O R I E N T E

L O C A T E D

A C E T O N E

H A R T E

A H A I R

G U L P S

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, 3218 E. Bay Drive, Holmes Beach.

SERVICES ISLAND COMPUTER GUY, 37 years experience. On-site PC repairs, upgrades, buying assistance and training. Call Bill, 941-778-2535. T.H.S. CLEANING: RESIDENTIAL, COMMERCIAL vacation rentals. Dependable and detailed. 941756-4570.

U FLY I drive your car anywhere in the USA. Airport runs, anywhere. Office, 941-447-6389. 941-545-6688. POWER WASHING AND windows: Residential, commercial, resort, real estate. Ask about our exterior cleaning. 941-251-5948. AUTHORITY ONE SERVICES: Cleaning, construction, residential, commercial, rentals. Call 941-251-5948.

FOUND SUNGLASSES: SPORT tortoise-shell frameless at Holmes Beach dog park on Jan. 13. Call Brian, 734-464-6978.

NEED A RIDE to the airports? Tampa $65, St. Pete, $55, Sarasota, $30. Call Gary, 863-4095875. Email: gvoness80@gmail.com.

PETS

TRUEBLUE33 MOBILE COMPUTER Service LLC. In-home and on-site business tech support. Call today, 941-592-7714.

BOATS & BOATING

S A T E E N S

MY NAME IS AIDAIN, I live in Holmes Beach I’m available to do any small yard, house chores for a fee. I do dog walking, pet sitting or run small errands. I’m available after school, 4-9 p.m. or all day Saturday and Sunday. I can be reached at 941-243-4473. Text or call. Thank you.

I DON’T CUT corners, I clean corners. Professional, friendly cleaning service since 1999. 941779-6638. Leave message.

YOU CAN HELP! Fosters, volunteers, retailtype help needed for Moonracer No Kill Animal Rescue. Please email: moonraceranimalrescue@ gmail.com.

ANSWERS TO JAN. 24 PUZZLE

KIDS FOR HIRE

FOUND WALLET: BRADENTON Beach, near Seventh Street and Gulf Drive. Description required to claim. 734-464-6978.

PET PAL PET sitting: Short and long term, in your house or mine. 18-year Island resident. 941-7045937. e.davies5937@gmail.com.