The Islander Newspaper E-Edition: Wednesday, Jan. 31, 2024 by The Anna Maria Islander Newspaper

JAN. 31, 2024 FrEE

VOLUME 32, NO. 15

the Best news on anna maria island Since 1992 astheworldterns 6 am appoints charter committee. 2

islander.org

snowbirds ﬂock to local waters

Q&A 013124 3 State rental bill draws concern. 4

Meetings 5 Opinions 6

By ryan Paice islander reporter

10-20 YEARS AGO

Looking back. 7

county force main project in HB approaches completion. 8

2024 elections 8 RoadWatch 9

Happenings What’s up on ami? 10-12

Save the date. 10-11

ame news. 13

Gathering. 14

GoodDeeds 15 Obituaries 15

Where’s Tuna Street?

american white pelicans — and a friendly brown pelican — bask Jan. 26 in shallow waters near Kingfish Boat ramp in Holmes Beach. unlike the smaller, resident brown pelicans, the migratory visitors do not dive for food. instead, white pelicans swim in formation to corral fish. islander Photos: robert anderson

Cold sends birds to rehab Brown pelicans await feeding while in rehab at Wildlife inc. in Bradenton Beach. the juvenile pelicans were brought to the rescue suffering from cold-induced starvation. more, page 26.

16-17

captains bring conservation message to ami. 18

NYT puzzle 18 Library board applicants declined. 20

Cops & Courts 22 HB tweaking noise ordinance. 23 Krc holds championship. 24 cheering at the center. 24 inconsistent bite on the water. 25

ruffling feathers. 27

cLASSIFIEDS. 28-29

Isl Biz: 30 trolley grants awarded.

anna Maria appoints 2 new commissioners

tourism ofﬁcials driving cross-county connections By Lisa neff islander editor

The Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau is fueled for a big drive. “We have to keep our foot on the gas,” BACVB executive director Elliott Falcione said Jan. 22, encouraging collaboration across Manatee County at a meeting of the tourist falcione development council. The advisory council, chaired by County Commissioner Ray Turner, meets periodically to consider projects funded with tourist development tax revenues and review BACVB efforts to promote the area. Falcione and others at the meeting focused on the tourism boost expected with

the opening of a hotel and the expansion of the county convention center in Palmetto and getting people from those sites to other locations in the county, especially Anna Maria Island. A new mode of transportation for visitors is the Gulf Islands Ferry, which launched in January to carry passengers between the downtown Bradenton riverfront and the Anna Maria City Pier. At the time of the TDC meeting, after multiple delays in the launch and then cancellations due to weather, the two-ferry service had operated one day out of the six scheduled. Falcione, with an eye on the weather forecast, predicted positive ferrying 9 a.m.-9 p.m. Jan. 26-28 and the possible addition of turn to tourism, Page 5

Two vacant seats on the Anna Maria City Commission are filled. City commissioners voted Jan. 25 to appoint residents Kathleen Morgan-Johnson and Gary McMullen to the depleted board, which had shrunk to three members following Robert Kingan’s and Deanie Sebring’s departures. Kingan did not seek reelection last year and no one qualified for his seat in November, leaving a vacant two-year term. Sebring resigned and moved away last October, leaving her successor to complete the remainder of her term, which expires in December. McMullen and Morgan-Johnson introduced themselves as candidates for the vacant seats at a Jan. 11 forum, where they answered questions from the public. Commissioners Jonathan Crane, Charlie Salem and Mark Short were left to vote Jan. 25 to fill the vacancies — or not. Crane attended the meeting via speakerphone and was allowed to participate remotely for the city to meet a three-member quorum. The commissioners were told to vote one for their first-choice applicant, two for their second choice, or zero if they did not find a suitable applicant. The applicant who received the most first-choice votes would have their pick of turn to am appoints, Page 2

BB Ward 1 applicants emerge By robert anderson islander reporter

If you live in Bradenton Beach and you’ve wanted to get involved in local politics, now might be your chance. Two people have applied to fill the Ward 1 city commission seat vacated near the end of 2023 by Jake Spooner and the application window remains open. Spooner, who had served as commissioner since 2015 and earned another unopposed term in 2023, cited the state’s newly expanded financial disclosure requirement as the reason for his Dec. 28 resignation. Applicants for the seat include: • Debbie Scaccianoce, co-owner of turn to bb Ward cHanGEs, Page 3

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am appoints continued from Page 1

the new anna

the available terms, while the applicant with more secmaria commission ond-choice votes would receive the remaining term. poses Jan. 25 folIf an applicant received all zeroes, they would be lowing the appointrejected. ment of gary Salem and Short wrote their votes on separate mcmullen, left, and paper ballots collected by city clerk LeAnne Addy. Kathleen morganCrane had delivered his votes via paper ballot to Johnson, right, to city hall earlier that day. fill a pair of vacant All three commissioners voted for Morgan-Johncommission seats. son as their first choice and McMullen second. commissioners Morgan-Johnson chose the two-year term, leaving charlie Salem and the shorter term to McMullen. mark Short were Following the vote, Addy led Morgan-Johnson and present, while comMcMullen in reciting their oaths of office and the pair missioner Jonathan joined Salem and Short on the dais. crane attended the McMullen told The Islander Jan. 26 that he is meeting via speakhonored to serve on the city commission and it was erphone. islander “exciting” to take the dais as a commissioner. Photos: ryan Paice “For a few years since I’ve been here, I’ve been Morgan-Johnson texted The Islander Jan. 26: “I ing with my fellow commissioners, listening to the wanting to do something to help the city improve,” he said. “I just want to make our city a better place to am deeply honored to have been appointed as a com- concerns and ideas of our stakeholders, and making missioner for our city. I look forward to collaborat- decisions that prioritize the wellbeing of our beautiful live.” island.”

Anna Maria names charter review committee members By ryan Paice islander reporter

Anna Maria’s quinquennial charter review is set to begin. City commissioners unanimously voted Jan. 25 to approve appointments for five residents to a charter review committee. The appointees are Chris Arendt, Stevie Coppin, Scott Isherwood, Pat Olesen and Chuck Wolfe. Deputy clerk Fransheska Berrios will facilitate the review. The city must review the charter, which is akin to a constitution, every five years by appointing a board of volunteers to comb through the document and present potential amendments to city commissioners for approval. Major amendments are added to general election

ballots as initiatives, so final approval falls to the city’s electorate. The city also can adopt amendments by unanimous vote to correct typographical errors and remove language that is contrary to or superseded by state and federal law, without a popular vote. Commissioner Charlie Salem moved to approve the proposed appointments. Commissioner Gary McMullen seconded the motion, which passed. There was no public comment. The committee will hold its first meeting at 2 p.m. Friday, Feb. 2, at city hall, 10005 Gulf Drive. The public meeting will partly function as an organizational meeting, since the committee must be sworn in and then elect a chair and vice chair before they move into the charter review process.

Housekeeping Ahead of the appointment vote, Short, Crane and Salem held a meeting to clean up some organizational business. Salem, who was appointed last January and was unopposed for reelection in November, was sworn into his first full two-year term on the commission. Salem then nominated Short to continue serving as commission chair. The nomination was seconded by Crane and unanimously approved. Short then nominated Salem as vice chair. Crane also seconded the nomination, which was unanimously approved. The city commission will meet next at 2 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 8, at city hall, 10005 Gulf Drive. Directions to attend via Zoom can be found on the city’s website, cityofannamaria.com.

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Jan. 31, 2024 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 3 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

During a Jan. 18 meeting, commissioners reviewed ward redistricting recommendations from the Manatee County Supervisor of Elections office. City attorney Ricinda Perry outlined proposed modifications, including shifting boundaries of Ward 1 and Ward 2 and reversing the numbers for Ward 3 and Ward 4 to ensure sequential numbering from the city’s north to the south boundaries. Mayor John Chappie and Commissioner Ralph Cole expressed satisfaction with the recommended

bb Ward cHanGEs continued from Page 1

Double Deez Chicago Style Hotdogs, 3009 Gulf Drive N., Holmes Beach, and previously a records manager for Manatee County; • Gary Michniewicz, a former division director for Speedway LLC, and former board member for the Knights of Columbus’ juvenile diabetes initiative. The city is still taking applications from residents who live within Ward 1, but the boundaries are shifting to accommodate a shift in the electorate.

changes and commissioners reached consensus to approve them. The review of wards is required before Spooner’s successor can be decided because the individual must reside in Ward 1. The ward changes will require the adoption of an ordinance with two public hearings. Then the commission, as required under the city charter, can propose nominees for the vacant Ward 1 seat and vote to fill the remaining term, which ends in November 2025. If a majority decision on an appointment is not reached by the commission after two meetings, the city clerk will choose a successor by lot from the proposed nominees. Applicants for the seat must be registered voters who have permanently resided in Bradenton Beach for 12 calendar months. Those interested in applying can get an application at city hall. City commissioners receive $400 a month. The next commission meeting is scheduled for 6 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 1, at city hall,107 Gulf Drive N.

Q&A 013124

By Lisa neff

The Islander poll Last week’s question city commissions meet twice a month. When should meetings occur?

24%. Whenever they want 0%. Daytime 50%. Evening 26%. One day, one evening meeting

This week’s question

florida lawmakers might change the state bird. the state bird should be …

the current Ward 1 boundaries for Bradenton Beach include 188 voters and the supervisor of elections office’s proposed Ward 1 boundaries include 170 voters. islander images: courtesy Soe

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State vacation rental takeover bill continues to draw concern By ryan Paice islander reporter

A vacation rental preemption bill is making its way through the state Legislature. And concern among island officials is growing. Anna Maria city attorney Becky Vose Jan. 25 discussed with city commissioners some of her concerns about Senate Bill 280, sponsored by Sen. Nick DiCeglie, R-St. Petersburg. DiCeglie filed the bill last November and it has passed the Senate Regulated Industries and Fiscal Policy committees on 4-0 and 12-5 votes, respectively. SB 280 has a companion bill, House Bill 1537, sponsored by Rep. Philip Griffitts Jr., R-Panama City, which has yet to make its way through the House Regulatory Reform & Economic Development Subcommittee. Vose called SB 280 “disastrous” and said the bill could have “devastating” results for the city and other municipalities if it becomes state law. According to Vose, the bill would: • Remove limits on occupancy by allowing local governments to set occupancy caps only based on a unit’s number of “sleeping accommodations,” which remains an undefined term in the bill; • Eliminate the regulation of the number of vehicles at vacation rental properties; • Eliminate local government’s ability to conduct annual rental inspections for compliance with the Florida Building Code and the Florida Fire and Life Safety Codes. Inspections would only be allowed upon initial application for registration or when a registration is changed; • Cap the cost of vacation rental registration fees at $150, as well as all subsequent renewal fees at $50; • Eliminate local government’s ability to require rental agreements and postings at rental units to inform guests about local regulations. Some of the main concerns for the city include the

anna maria city attorney Becky Vose speaks Jan. 25 to city commissioners about the challenges posed by Senate Bill 280, which would preempt vacation rental regulations to the state. islander Photo: ryan Paice

removal of practical occupancy limits and the capping of rental registration and renewal fees, since the city bases its annual registration fees on maximum occupancy. The city’s registration fees are designed to pay the cost of enforcing its vacation rental registration program, which the municipality adopted in 2015. Vose wrote in a Dec. 11, 2023, memorandum to city officials regarding SB 280 that the new caps would transfer “the bulk of the cost of regulation and registrations of vacation rentals to the taxpayers of the city in general.” Another issue is that SB 280 would make “illusory” the state’s ability to enforce its own “meager” regulations, according to Vose. The bill allows cease-and-desist orders to enforce state requirements for vacation rentals but prohibits the enforcement of rental violations through state administrative hearing processes, which Vose said are “highly effective.”

Despite all of SB 280’s downsides, Vose said that the bill has been touted as good legislation by the Florida League of Cities. She said her law firm — Winter Park-based Vose Law Firm — sent the FLC complaints about the bill. “It’s a disaster and unfortunately the Florida League of Cities doesn’t seem to recognize it. A lot of cities don’t seem to recognize it. It’s bad all around,” Vose said. Anna Maria is not alone in its concerns. The city of Holmes Beach recently sent a letter to state legislators voicing the municipality’s opposition to the bill. Anna Maria Commission Chair Mark Short said SB 280 was part of an “annual battle” over vacation rental regulations that he has seen between the state and local governments since he joined the commission in September 2019. Short said he hopes people will come to realize how bad the bill is as the situation continues to develop. “It’s horrible,” he said. Short urged people to visit homerulefl.com, Anna Maria’s website that provides information about the legislative session and facilitates correspondence with state officials. The legislative session began Jan. 9 and is set to end Saturday, March 9. Effect on WMFR? While local governments across the state will feel the impact of SB 280 if it passes, the bill might not make much of a splash for the West Manatee Fire Rescue District. The district implemented a vacation rental inspection program to enforce compliance with state fire codes for fiscal 2023-24, which began Oct. 1, 2023. WMFR fire marshal Rodney Kwiatkowski told The Islander Jan. 26 that he has reviewed SB 280 and believes the bill would have no impact on the district’s vacation rental inspection program.

Find that Special Valentine gift

at the The Coquina

Beach Market

Wednesday, Jan 31st, Friday, Feb 2nd & Sunday, Feb 4th 10AM - 4PM Here is what you will find at our Market: jewelry, candles, fresh lemonade, women’s apparel, custom & creative artwork, freezedried candy, fresh baked goods, pet items, home décor, metal artwork, stuffed turtles, sunglasses, Celtic jewelry, caps, skin care products, water totes & bags, t-shirts, guacamole, windchimes, bracelets, eco friendly bug spray, aloe vera lotions, jerky, fresh coconut drink, licorice, pearl jewelry, toys and MORE.

Music 11AM - 2PM Mike Sales on Wednesday Chuck Davis on Friday NEW LOCATION: The Coquina Beach Market is located on the very South end of Anna Maria Island. If driving, take the South entrance to the park before the Longboat Pass bridge. If taking the trolley, walk South from the Café to the end of the island.

Check our Face Book page for the daily vendor roster, weather cancellations or marked closure days. www.coquinabeachmarket.org 941-840-0789 https://www.facebook.com/CoquinaBeachMarket

Jan. 31, 2024 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 5 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Meetings

By Lisa Neff

Anna Maria City

Feb. 2, 2 p.m., charter review. Anna Maria City Hall, 10005 Gulf Drive, 941-708-6130, cityofannamaria.com. Bradenton Beach Feb. 1, 6 p.m., commission. Bradenton Beach City Hall, 107 Gulf Drive N., 941-778-1005, cityofbradentonbeach.com. Holmes Beach Feb. 7, 10 a.m., parks and beautification. Feb. 7, 5 p.m., planning. Holmes Beach City Hall, 5801 Marina Drive, 941-708-5800, holmesbeachfl.org.

Holmes Beach commissioner struck by car A Jan. 25 crash sent Holmes Beach City Commissioner Pat Morton to the HCA Florida Blake Hospital in Bradenton for medical treatment. Holmes Beach Police Chief Bill Tokajer told The Islander Jan. 29 that a motorist struck Morton while the commissioner was walking across a parking lot to Ace Morton Hardware, 3352 E. Bay Drive, where he works. Tokajer said the motorist told police he was

— Ryan Paice

Collection day Manatee County utility workers sort DVD players and propane tanks Jan. 27 at Coquina Beach, where Manatee County, in collaboration with Clean Harbors, holds its annual E-scrap collection. Motorists arrived to dispose of old electronics and hazardous household items from their vehicles and workers kept the line moving. Islander Photos: Robyn Murrell

Manatee County Feb. 1, 9 a.m., commission (land use). Feb. 6, 9 a.m., commission. County administration building, 1112 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton, 941-748-4501, mymanatee.org. Also of interest Feb. 19, Presidents Day, most government offices will be closed. Please, send meeting notices to calendar@islander.org. tourism continued from page 1

a third stop at the Historic Bridge Street Pier in Bradenton Beach. Adding the Bradenton Beach pier, he added, would allow the ferry — the service includes two 50-foot catamarans that can each carry 49 passengers — to skip the Anna Maria pier stop in choppy water. “We’re hoping to add Bradenton Beach, maybe as early as this weekend,” Falcione said. “We’re just finalizing an asset to make sure we’re ADA compliant.” The ferry did not make the Bradenton Beach run and runs were canceled Jan. 28 due to weather, according to an announcement on the service website. Plans also involve: • Adding a stop at Coquina Bayside in Bradenton Beach. • Scouting for a stop on Longboat Key. • Bringing the ferry service to the convention center-resort complex. • Securing a federal grant to buy a ferry boat with protection from the elements. • Expanding service hours. “We’re already talking about running more than Friday, Saturday, Sunday in March and April because, you know what, that’s when the traffic is going to the island,” Falcione said. “Run maybe five days a week. … We’re real excited.” Bradenton Mayor Gene Brown, a member of the TDC, also is excited. He and his wife rode the ferry on the chilly launch day from Bradenton to Anna Maria, walked on Pine Avenue to lunch at the Sandbar Res-

unable to see Morton because the sun was in his eyes. Impact with the motorist’s pickup truck sent Morton “flying” and left him with serious injuries, according to Tokajer. Morton, who did not respond to a Jan. 29 call from The Islander, remained at Blake that day for medical treatment and possibly surgery. Tokajer said the motorist was charged with being at fault in a pedestrian accident and was given a court summons.

taurant and then returned by ferry to the riverfront. “It was definitely worth the adventure that first day,” Brown said, noting he met other passengers who came from cold-weather locales such as Chicago and Green Bay, Wisconsin. Falcione and Tony DeRusso, managing director of Improvement Network Development Partners, reviewed the construction progress at the Bradenton Area Convention Center, 1 Haben Blvd., Palmetto, and the nearby Marriott Palmetto Resort & Spa. The $48-million convention center project is set to be completed in spring 2025 while the $100-million hotel, under construction since January 2020, is set to open in April. DeRusso said the hotel will offer a rooftop restaurant, ground-floor restaurant and bar, pool, pickleball courts, fitness center and spa with views of the river, proximity to a preserve and commercial and cultural centers, easy access to major roads and maybe a ferry ride to “the sugar white sands of AMI.” “Having that water taxi have a stop in there is a game-changer for the community,” he said. Falcione said the expanded convention center will accommodate gatherings of 800 people. In other business at the meeting: • Anne Wittine of Research Data Services reviewed

tourism trends and statistics, including numbers associated with visits, room and occupancy rates and economic impacts for October 2023 and November 2023. Numbers generally were down when compared to the same months in 2022 but they showed growth compared to the same months in 2019. In 2022, Hurricane Ian devastated parts of southwest Florida, causing people to shift reservations and seek temporary housing in Manatee County. Wittine said the outlook for January appeared “good,” February and March are “really good” but there is a concern for “softness” in the summer. • Falcione invited the council to attend his “State of Tourism” remarks to the Manatee Chamber of Commerce Wednesday, Feb. 14, at the Bradenton Country Club and join the BACVB at concerts at the Center of Anna Maria Island in Anna Maria. • Brown and Palmetto Mayor Shirley Groover Bryant, also a TDC member, encouraged people to attend the Bradenton Area River Regatta, which will be Friday-Saturday, Feb. 16-17 on the river and along the riverfront. The next TDC meeting will be at 9 a.m. Monday, April 15, at the county administration building, 1112 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton.

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Page 6 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Jan. 31, 2024 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Opinion

Our

For the birds

While there are plenty of things that I consider “for the birds,” I’m really, wholeheartedly in support of making way for birds in nature. But I can’t say I know of anyone who’s more “for the birds” than Joe Bird. He must have a pile of puns and jokes to last him a lifetime. Hence: Astheworldterns, his weekly editorial cartoon that shares this page. I’m enamoured by shorebirds. I love to see the little sanderlings scooting up and down the sand as the small waves wash up. And skimmers. Who doesn’t marvel when they skim by, collecting food from the skinny water. I’ve got a family of osprey that I watch over at my house since Florida Power & Light put in a nest pole to avoid power outages on my corner. And who doesn’t love the spoonbills — and now flamingos — that frequent the shore? Yes, they’re pink, which for me makes them especially likable. I’ve also encountered colorful blue birds and a cardinal flitting about in my back yard, which backs up to a conservation zone. They all depend on us for clean water, a healthy environment and — sometimes, like during cold weather — a boost for their chicks and themselves. Thankfully on AMI, we have Gail and Ed Straight and the nonprofit they started about 37 years ago to help wildlife. But I also think we should be trying to look forward in our stewardship on and around AMI, especially looking at old methods and practices that could use some sharpening in modern times. Like raking the wrack line on the beach. The wrack serves as the primary source of nutrients to shorebirds and is the foundation for the food chain. Nutrients cycle back into the surf zone and contribute to the nursery for important fish species. The same can be said for the destruction of mangroves that host birds and marine nursery — and we’re dumping it all at the landfill. There’s also more we can do to preserve the habitats for wildlife in the preserves — including limiting hunting with firearms and fireworks within 100 yards of a preserve. Allowing hunters to fire guns from the shoreline is no way to maintain and preserve a wildlife habitat. I can’t tell you the science but I can tell you both Horsing around practices are wrong. I read with interest “Concerns Linger over conWe can do better. tamination in Palma Sola Bay” in The Islander’s Jan. Who will help put an end to harmful practices such 24 issue. as these? We need to do better. It implies that everyone seems to be in the dark as — Bonner Joy, news@islander.org to why there is such a disparity in the levels of e-coli between the north and south bays. Has anyone ever considered that perhaps it is due to all the horses? People pay money to ride the horses in the water. JAN. 31, 2024 • Vol. 32, No. 15 Horses are not toilet trained, so you can imagine what ▼ Publisher, Co-editor they are doing in the water! Bonner Joy, news@islander.org Ban the horses and I would venture a guess that ▼ Editorial the e-coli levels will drop dramatically. editor Lisa neff, lisa@islander.org robert anderson, robert@islander.org I have also never seen a horse wearing a diaper — Joe Bird, editorial cartoonist called a “bun bag.” Kevin cassidy, kevin@islander.org Come on folks, this isn’t rocket science. Jack elka, jack@jackelka.com robyn murrell, robyn@islander.org Kate Eglee, Orleans, Massachusetts ryan Paice, ryan@islander.org Editor’s note: The impact of the horses in the bay ▼ Contributors has long been discussed and debated. Suncoast WaterKaren riley-Love keeper plans to test DNA from the bay is an effort to Jacob merrifield capt. danny Stasny, fish@islander.org pinpoint the sources of enterococcus bacteria pollution ▼ Advertising Director in the waters. toni Lyon, toni@islander.org

Opinion

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Waterfront nonattraction

Skimming online

Website: islander.org Facebook: islandernewspaper X: @ami_islander Instagram: @theislanderami Pinterest: @islandernewspaper News alerts: Register at islander.org E-edition: Subscribe at islander.org How can this be changed back to the better use of valuable resources and who is responsible for ruining something so great? Diane Kotouc, Garﬁeld, Arkansas

Hey, about those horses

Very interesting how you can spend two pages in the Jan. 24 issue about water quality in Palma Sola Bay and not a mention of the trailers full of horses arriving each day and charging large sums to ride a horse in the water! Each and every day the horses use the waters for their personal bathrooms! More than once I have witnessed children sitting in the water right next to the horses with their parents with them. Some of us still think that we have government agencies to protect us from such dangers. Let the readers know why this practice is still going on! Michael Osterman, Bradenton

I arrived for our winter escape to Anna Maria Island and I sure miss the restaurant on Anna Maria City Pier that was our first stop when arriving. We stopped in the Mote Marine e Education Center on the pier and found it a waste of valuable space and revenue for the island. We went next door to get a sandwich and the price Sending letters We welcome letters to the editor. Submit comments along with a name, city was $30! No thanks! How in the world were those changes made to ruin of residence and phone number to news@islander. org. a once great pier?

Jan. 31, 2024 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 7 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

‘Tropical drive’ a postcard circulated 1925-30 depicts Pine avenue just beyond roser memorial community church in anna maria. a sliver of the old anna maria city Pier can be seen. on the right is a cottage home built in 1923, which still stands at 519 Pine ave. on the left is an inn that burned in the summer of 1930, according to the manatee county Public Library archives. this postcard is part of the Bishop museum of Science and nature collection at the library.

10&20 years ago

From the Jan. 28, 2004, issue

Specializing in Spanish dishes a postcard shows the cafe Sanchez dining room, 9906 gulf drive, anna maria, where Spanish-style meals were served daily 11 a.m.-2 p.m. and 5-9 p.m. the restaurant, according to the manatee county Public Library archives, was known for its paella and prime steaks. owner-manager alexander Sanchez Jr. opened the restaurant in 1967.

Holy mackerel a postcard depicts a group fishing for mackerel on anna maria island. islander Photos: manatee county Public Library System

• Tidemark Partners LLC filed for bankruptcy after Regions Bank foreclosed on its $1.7 million mortgage. The company had planned to build a 40-unit condominium with a restaurant and marina in Holmes Beach. Tidemark principal Nick Easterling said he had a $4 million loan commitment pending. • The Manatee County Sheriff’s Office dropped charges made by Ron Ockerman that Bradenton Beach Commissioner Lisa Marie Phillips “flipped him off” during a road incident and threatened to have police issue him a ticket. MCSO Deputy Matt Miller said there was no basis for a charge of “intent to do violence” made by Ockerman against Phillips. • The Sarasota/Manatee Metropolitan Planning Organization agreed to have the Florida Department of Transportation do another traffic study of the Cortez Road-Gulf Drive intersection to look at bridge openings.

From the Jan. 29, 2014, issue

• A 27-foot Sea Ray cruiser was beached on the shore at Bean Point in Anna Maria while the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office attempted to find the registered owner. • Developers renovating property in Holmes Beach received stop work orders when inspections revealed construction issues, as well as a broader scope of work being performed than what was permitted by the city building department. • Anna Maria commissioners unanimously approved a land lease to construct a cell tower at city hall with Florida Tower Partners LLC of Bradenton. — Lisa neff

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Page 8 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Jan. 31, 2024 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

County force main project ﬁnally approaches completion By ryan Paice islander reporter

It’s been nearly two years. And Manatee County’s force main replacement project in Holmes Beach is almost done. Project manager Brett Gocka wrote in a Jan. 25 email to The Islander that Sarasota-based Spectrum Underground was set to reach substantial completion on the $3,492,035.25 project by the end of February. The project began in March 2022 and involves replacing 4,000 feet of 16-inch force main along Holmes Boulevard and 1,100 feet of 8-inch force main along 58th Street with new PVC piping. Work also involved upsizing potable water lines along the stretch from 2-inch and 4-inch diameters to 6-inch diameter pipes. Construction was initially projected to end in November 2022 but work was delayed multiple times — most recently due to a leak discovered during pressure-testing. The project has bogged down traffic on Holmes Boulevard and negatively impacted multiple businesses along the corridor. Now Spectrum should reach substantial completion sooner rather than later. Gocka wrote that much of the work has been completed. The stretches of new PVC lines have been installed, connected and pressure-tested while system tie-ins have begun and the impacted roadways have been repaved. Nevertheless, the contractor must complete about 12 more water system tie-ins, including for two fire hydrants, set thermoplastic markings for the repaved roadways, and then do cleanup and restoration work. Gocka wrote that much of the remaining work would be completed during the day but some of the system tie-ins would be done at night. Those tie-ins are expected to involve brief water shutdowns “with minimal impacts to the residents.” He sympathized with the people impacted by the project. “We understand the community’s frustration and we are working to complete this project. There have been many issues from unforeseen site conditions, hurricanes, material issues, testing failures and construction coordination. There is no one issue that is responsible for the delay but, it has been a combination of issues,” Gocka wrote. People can learn more about the force main replacement project at amiprojects.io.

a crew works early Jan. 25 on converting the force main along marina drive near the Holmes Beach city Hall. the morning work to expand the size of the main slowed but did not block traffic on marina drive. islander Photo: Lisa neff

City projects Meanwhile, the city of Holmes Beach has a couple of capital improvement projects lined up for 2024. City engineer and public works superintendent Sage Kamiya presented Jan. 23 the city’s improvement plans, which include phases G(a) and G(b) of stormwater drainage improvements. Kamiya said Sarasota-based C-Squared CGC Inc. recently reached substantial completion on phases F and I of drainage improvements, which involve installing stormwater infiltration trenches. The French drain-style trenches are filled with small rocks and filtration mesh, which filter nutrients, sediment and other pollutants out of stormwater before it reaches perforated outflow pipelines at the bottom. Phase F involved the installation of trenches along Marina Drive, from 56th Street to 58th Street, as well as 58th, 59th and 60th streets between Marina Drive and Holmes Boulevard. Phase I features the addition of infiltration trenches and pervious paver sidewalks along Gulf Drive, from 69th Street to 76th Street. Kamiya said the two phases were the first to feature the use of sod surfaces for the trenches, which have been topped with gravel in the past. He said the salt-tolerant sod was more expensive, but required

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less maintenance and cleanup than the gravel-topped trenches. The next stormwater improvements will be phases G(a) and G(b). Phase G(a) will involve the installation of drainage trenches along 77th, 78th and 79th streets between Gulf and Marina drives. Phase G(b) will feature the installation of trenches along roadways between Avenue B, Avenue C, 27th Street and 28th Street. The city commission approved a $411,640.43 agreement last December to hire Bradenton-based Woodruff & Sons to complete work on phase G. Kamiya said work on phase G will begin this spring and is projected for completion by September. Phase G will be funded by the Southwest Florida Water Management District.

Election 2024

Elections supervisor retires, resigns ofﬁce

Manatee County Supervisor of Elections Mike Bennett is resigning his post effective March 1, according to a statement released Jan. 23. Bennett, a former Republican state senator and representative, was elected in 2012 to the supervisor post to manage elections countywide. In his statement, Bennett described his years of public service as the highlight of his life and said it was “with some regret” he was retiring. “Life is an ever-changing tapestry and I would like to spend the rest of my time with my family, friends and on my various hobbies and charities,” Bennett stated. Bennett, in a resignation letter to Gov. Ron DeSantis, recommended appointing Scott Farrington, his chief of staff, to serve through the general election. “I have every expectation that Manatee County Elections office is in the tremendously capable hands of the very experienced staff I leave behind,” Bennett stated.

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Florida will hold its presidential preference primary Tuesday, March 19, with registered Republicans heading to the polls. The nominating election is a closed primary, which means only voters registered in a particular political party can cast a ballot in that party’s primary. The deadline to register to vote in the GOP primary is Tuesday, Feb. 20, according to the Manatee County Supervisor of Elections Office. To check registration status, people can go to votemanatee.com, where they also will find instructions to register, as well as request ballots by mail. — Lisa neff

Jan. 31, 2024 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 9 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Florida Form 6 lawsuit gains plaintiffs but not on AMI By robert anderson islander reporter

Thirteen municipalities across Florida are joining a lawsuit against the state over new a financial disclosure law but, as of Jan. 26, the pool of plaintiffs didn’t include any from Anna Maria Island. The Weiss Serota Helfman law firm in Coral Gables is lining up plaintiffs in a suit seeking declaratory and injunctive relief against the law that requires municipal officials to file a Form 6, necessitating their public disclosure of net worth, income, assets and more. Municipal elected officials previously were required to file a Form 1, a more limited financial disclosure statement than the Form 6 that state lawmakers and county commissioners have filed for years. The purpose of the new law is to promote transparency for officers making spending decisions, according to its proponents. But the pending lawsuit alleges the requirements violate a right to privacy and interfere with effective local governance and 13 city governments have voted to join the suit. Jamie Alan Cole, an attorney with the firm, in a Jan. 23 interview with The Islander, said the government’s interest in transparency was valid but he criticized Form 6 as an unnecessarily restrictive and intrusive disclosure, surpassing requirements for even the U.S. president and congressional members. “There’s obviously an interest that the government has in transparency and having voters be able to see information that would let them know if their commissioners have voting conflicts or corruption,” he said. But he said the U.S. Constitution prohibits com-

pelling a person to speak or preventing people from speaking. “So if a government official doesn’t want to say the words ‘My net worth is blank’ they can’t be required to by the government unless it’s the least restrictive way of accomplishing a compelling state interest,” Cole said. Cole also warned about limiting potential candidates for office in areas where voter bases are small. “You are going to have, in some smaller cities, no one is going to want to do this,” Cole said. More than 100 city officials resigned over the financial disclosure, he said. The firm intends to file suit in February with Golden Beach, Indian Creek, Miami Springs, Lighthouse Point, Town of Palm Beach, North Bay Village, Bal Harbor, Weston, Delray Beach, Safety Harbor, Cooper City, Coral Springs and St. Augustine as plaintiffs. The impact of Form 6 has been felt on AMI, where Jake Spooner resigned as Bradenton Beach commissioner in December 2023 and three applicants for city commission seats in Anna Maria withdrew before they could be considered. In Bradenton Beach, commissioners discussed Form 6 Jan. 18. “I can tell you as a county commissioner for eight years, I filled out the Form 6. Do I like doing it? No, but I am not in favor of being part of the lawsuit,” Mayor John Chappie said. Commissioner Ralph Cole labeled Form 6 “ridic-

ulous.” “I can see at the state level, where you are getting paid and making a pension,” Cole said. “But the level of where we are at, we are basically volunteering. I think they didn’t think it through and the fact that they put it through without any grandfathering-in of people who could finish their terms out and then decide. They made them into quitters.” Bradenton Beach commissioners are paid $4,800 a year and the mayor is paid $9,600 annually. In Holmes Beach, Mayor Judy Titsworth wrote in a Jan. 23 email to The Islander that “the commission did discuss and chose not to join in the lawsuit. As for Form 6, I do feel it is going to make people think twice before running for local offi ce, which isn’t good. Commissioners and mayors in these smaller cities do so out of civic duty and for very little compensation. Having to list the values of personal assets and balance in bank accounts seems excessive.” Holmes Beach commissioners make $8,080 per year and the mayor earns $28,160 per year. The Islander reached out to Anna Maria Mayor Dan Murphy for comment but as of press time Jan. 29 there was no response. Anna Maria commissioners make $4,800 annually and the mayor earns $19,600 a year. “We hope to get an injunction to stop this,” Cole said, referring to the filing of Form 6 from the cities. “Elected officials have to file the forms by July 1. So if we got an injunction, they wouldn’t have to do that.”

Dishing up dinner Volunteer nancy colcord serves a spoonful of macaroni and cheese into a to-go box at the annie Silver community center, 103 23rd St. n., Bradenton Beach. for $10, patrons enjoyed a catered meal of barbecue ribs and chicken, potatoes, mac and cheese and baked beans from Bigg dogg BBQ of Sarasota. the next supper will be 5-7 p.m., Wednesday, feb. 21. islander Photo: robert anderson

RoadWatch

Eyes on the road

• City center in Holmes Beach: Manatee County’s work on a force main project on Holmes Boulevard, Marina Drive and side streets continues and traffic patterns can change. For the latest, go to amiprojects.io. • Gulf Drive in Bradenton Beach: Manatee County is working on sewer lines along Gulf Drive South. Motorists can expect lane shifts on Gulf Drive and the closure of 10th Street South. For the latest, go to amiprojects.io. — Lisa neff

For regional road watch information, go online to swﬂroads.com or dial 511.

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Island happenings

Page 10 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Jan. 31, 2024 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

compiled by Lisa neff, calendar@islander.org

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT onGoinG on AMi through January, “sky Wonders” by Karen eddy, Artists’ Guild Gallery, 5414 Marina drive, holmes Beach. information: 941-7786694. Feb. 5-9, Artists’ Guild Gallery Paint the town sidewalk demonstrations and more, 5414 Marina drive, holmes Beach. information: 941-778-6694. throughout February, Barbara truemper-Green exhibit, Artists’ Guild Gallery, 5414 Marina drive, holmes Beach. information: 941778-6694. onGoinG oFF AMi through January, “i Must have Flowers” exhibit by debbie snow, island Gallery and studios, 456 old Main st., Bradenton. information: 941-778-6648. throughout February, “nature’s Palette” by Janet Flickinger, island Gallery and studios, 456 old Main st., Bradenton. information: 941-778-6648, islandgalleryandstudios.org. Feb. 11-June 30, “yayoi Kusama: A letter to Georgia o’Keeffe,” Marie selby Botanical Gardens, 1534 Mound st., sarasota. Fee applies. information: 941-366-5731. through April 28, “dali and the impressionists,” the dali Museum, 1 dali Blvd., st. Petersburg. Fee applies. information: 727-823-3767. through April 28, the Bishop Museum of science and nature’s “Bird Photographer of the year,” 201 10th st. W., Bradenton. Fee applies. information: 941-746-4131. through June 23, “Mountains of the Mind: scholars’ rocks from China and Beyond” exhibit, the John and Mable ringling Museum of Art, 5401 Bay shore road, sarasota. Fee applies. information: 941-360-7390, ringling.org. First Fridays, 6-9:30 p.m., Village of the Arts First Fridays Artwalk, 12th street West and 12th Avenue West, Bradenton. information: villageofthearts.com. saturdays, 10:30 a.m., art demos, island Gallery and studios, 456 old Main st., Bradenton. information: 941-778-6648, islandgalleryandstudios.org. second and fourth saturdays, 2-4 p.m., Music on the Porch jam session, presented by the Florida Maritime Museum and Cortez Cultural Center, 4415 119th St. W., Cortez. Information: ﬂoridamaritimemuseum.org. sAVe the dAte

carl dixon will take the stage at the center of anna maria island friday, feb. 23, when the guess Who alumni perform a concert. tickets start at $59 at centerami. org. islander courtesy Photo

Guess Who Alumni show set

The center, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria, will host the Guess Who Alumni in concert Friday, Feb. 23. The band will play Guess Who hits, including “American Woman,” “No Sugar Tonight,” “Clap for The Wolfman,” “Laughing,” “Hand Me Down World,” and “Share the Land.” The lineup includes Carl Dixon, Bill Wallace, Laurie MacKenzie and Mark Santer with special guest Matt Young. Dixon was lead singer for the Guess Who for eight years, 1997-2000 and 2003-08. Tickets start at $59. The final concert in the 2023-24 season presented by the Manatee County Tourist Development Council and the Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau will feature Beach Boys founding member Al Jardine performing Saturday, April 6. Jardine tours with the Endless Summer Band. Tickets start at $59. March 1-2, Center of Anna Maria island’s Murder-Mystery Doors open at 6 p.m. for both shows, with an opendinner theater, Anna Maria. March 7-24, island Players’ “Communicating doors,” Anna ing act at 7 p.m. and headliners at 8 p.m. For more about tickets, go online to centerami. Maria. org. March 10, island Players’ “the Woman in Black” auditions, For more about the center, call the center at 941Anna Maria. 778-1908. March 22-April 26, Music in the Park, Bradenton. March 23, Center of Anna Maria island’s Wine tasting, Anna Maria. sAVe the dAte March 26, Anna Maria island historical society heritage FesFeb. 9-10, Feed the Peeps Arts and Crafts Market, Anna tival, Anna Maria. April 6, Center of Anna Maria island/Bradenton Area Conven- Maria. March 2-3, the invitational, holmes Beach. tion and Visitors Bureau Al Jardin concert, Anna Maria. March 8-9, Feed the Peeps Arts and Crafts Market, Anna May 2-12, island Players’ “the Woman in Black,” Anna Maria. Maria. April 6-7, Coquina Beach spring Arts and Crafts Market, BraMay 3, theater in the Park, Bradenton. denton Beach. May 10, theater in the Park, Bradenton. March 14-16, Friends of the island library Jewelry sale, MARKETS & SALES holmes Beach. onGoinG on AMi Most Wednesdays, Fridays, sundays, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Coquina Beach Market, Coquina Beach, Bradenton Beach. information: 941840-0789, coquinabeachmarket.org. second Fridays of the month through spring, 5:30-7:30 p.m., holmes Beach night Market, holmes Beach. information: 941-7786694. tuesdays, 8:30 a.m.-2 p.m., Anna Maria Farmers Market, City Pier Park, Pine Avenue and Bay Boulevard. Anna Maria. information: 941-708-6130.

KIDS & FAMILY on AMi

Friday, Feb. 2 10 a.m. — 40 Carrots parenting program, island library, 5701 Marina drive, holmes Beach. information: 941-778-6341. Tuesday, Feb. 6 10 a.m. — Family storytime, island library, 5701 Marina drive, holmes Beach. information: 941-778-6341. onGoinG on AMi

onGoinG oFF AMi

Feb. 23, Center of Anna Maria island/Bradenton Area Convenselect thursdays, shark Pups and Grownups preschool protion and Visitors Bureau Guess Who Alumni concert, Anna Maria. saturdays through May 7, 9 a.m.-2 p.m., Bradenton Market, gram, Mote Marine science education and outreach Center on Feb. 24, sarasota Bay Watch scallopalooza, sarasota. Anna Maria City Pier, Pine Avenue and Bay Boulevard, Anna Maria. old Main street, Bradenton. information: 941-301-8445. Feb. 28, Anna Maria island Garden Club Fashion show, Anna Maria.

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Island happenings

Jan. 31, 2024 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 11 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Meet-and-greet at the theater the island Players host a reception during the soldout run of “the mousetrap,” which closed Jan. 28. the theater group is marking its 75th season and decided to host receptions to show its appreciation for community theater audiences. the Players’ next show will be the comedy “communicating doors,” which will run march 7-24 at the theater, 10009 gulf drive, anna maria. for more information, call the box office at 941-778-5755 or go online to theislandplayers.org. islander courtesy Photo

information: mote.org. onGoinG oFF AMi First Wednesdays, soAr in 4 family night, the Bishop Museum, 201 10th st. W., Bradenton. Fee applies. information: 941-746-4131, bishopscience.org. third Fridays, teen nights, the Bishop Museum, 201 10th st. W., Bradenton. Fee applies. information: 941-746-4131, bishopscience.org. second saturdays, Quest for Kids, the Bishop Museum, 201 10th st. W., Bradenton. Fee applies. information: 941-746-4131, bishopscience.org. sAVe the dAte

Most Wednesdays, 1 p.m., mahjong club beginners, island library, 5701 Marina drive, holmes Beach. information: 941-7786341. thursdays, 6 p.m., Jan. 18-March 28, Annie silver Community Center bingo, 103 23rd st. n., Bradenton Beach. information: 941224-1973. Most Fridays, 11:30 a.m., mahjong club experienced players, island library, 5701 Marina drive, holmes Beach. information: 941778-6341. Mondays, 10 a.m., morning yoga, island library, 5701 Marina Bradenton Beach. Feb. 22, Center of Anna Maria senior Adventures outing, Anna drive, holmes Beach. information: 941-778-6341. Maria. sAVe the dAte Feb. 29, Anna Maria island historical society Membership Feb. 9, Center of Anna Maria island Bingo Bonanza, Anna luncheon, Anna Maria. Maria. March 9, Center of Anna Maria island Beach Cleanup, Anna Feb. 24, Pittsburgh Pirates spring training opens, Bradenton. Maria. March 8, Center of Anna Maria island Bingo Bonanza, Anna March 22, Annie silver Community Center community suppers, Maria. Bradenton Beach. April 5, Bradenton Marauders season opens, Bradenton. April 13, Center of Anna Maria island Beach Cleanup, Anna Maria. OUTDOORS & May 4, Center of Anna Maria island Beach Cleanup, Anna NATURE Maria. oFF AMi

One of the organizers is the Artists’ Guild of Anna Maria Island, which will host an open house that night at the Artists’ Guild Gallery, 5414 Marina Drive. The guild also is presenting “Paint the Town” demonstrations and sales events Feb. 6-9. For more information, call the gallery at 941-7786694.

the

third thursdays, 6:30 p.m., through April, Manatee Audubon society meetings, First united Methodist Church of Palmetto, 330 11th Ave. W., Palmetto. information: manateeaudubon@gmail.com, 941-729-2222. sAVe the dAte Feb. 17, Grace irwin Memorial Fund “hunt for the Cure” scavenger hunt, Anna Maria. Feb. 21, Annie silver Community Center community suppers,

SPORTS & GAMES

12.

LESSONS & Feb. 17-18, Cortez Commercial Fishing Festival, Cortez. LEARNING March 17, st. Patrick’s day Parade, holmes Beach and Anna Maria. on AMi May 4, Center of Anna Maria Island’s Crawfish Boil, Anna Friday, Feb. 2 Maria. 2 p.m. — Paper crafting, island library, 5701 Marina drive, May 18, Bradentown Birthday Bash, Bradenton. holmes Beach. information: 941-778-6341. CLUBS & Saturday, Feb. 3 COMMUNITY 2 p.m. — Paper crafting, island library, 5701 Marina drive, holmes Beach. information: 941-778-6341. on AMi onGoinG on AMi Thursday, Feb. 1 1 p.m. — sunshine stitchers, island library, 5701 Marina drive, thursdays through Feb. 22, 2 p.m., Friends of the island library holmes Beach. information: 941-778-6341. lecture and travel series, roser Memorial Community Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. information: 941-778-6341. onGoinG on AMi onGoinG oFF AMi Most saturdays, 8:30 a.m., Kiwanis Club of Anna Maria island meeting, Bradenton Beach City hall, 107 Gulf drive n., Bradenton Mondays, 1 p.m., longboat Key Paradise Center for healthy Beach. information: 941-778-1383. Most tuesdays, noon, rotary Club of Anna Maria island meeting, Bridge street Bistro, 111 Gulf drive s., Bradenton Beach. information: 941-718-5583. onGoinG oFF AMi

living thinking out loud discussions, 546 Bay isles road, longboat Key. information: 941-383-6493. save the date Feb. 15, Cortez Village historical society/Manatee democratic environmental Caucus, “the Mighty Mullet” program, Cortez.

onGoinG on AMi

Businesses host Holmes Beach Night Market Businesses in the city center will hold a Holmes Beach Night Market Friday, Feb. 9. Hours will be 5-7:30 p.m. — and later at some locations. Businesses will offer refreshments, entertainment and demonstrations and some are planning extended hours. Other dates for markets are March 8 and April

Send listings to calendar@islander.org

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Wednesday, Jan. 31 9 a.m. — nature Art: Painting with the elements, robinson Preserve, 1704 99th st. nW, Bradenton. information: 941-742-5923. onGoinG oFF AMi saturdays, 9 a.m., Mornings at the nest, robinson Preserve, 10299 ninth Ave. nW, Bradenton. information: 941-742-5923, mymanatee.org.

CALENDAR NOTES KeeP the dAtes Feb. 2, Groundhog day. Feb. 13, Mardi Gras. Feb. 14, Valentine’s day. Feb. 15, susan B. Anthony day. Feb. 19, Presidents day. March 10, daylight saving time begins. March 17, st. Patrick’s day. March 29, Good Friday. March 31, easter.

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Island happenings

Page 12 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Jan. 31, 2024 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Croce entertains at center

Historical society plans lunch

The Anna Maria Island Historical Society is planning to honor the past and plate a lunch. The nonprofit will hold its annual luncheon and meeting at 11:30 a.m. Thursday, Feb. 29. The event will be held outdoors on the historical society’s grounds, 402 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, with a catered lunch. Tickets were to go on sale Monday, Feb. 5. The historical society also is planning to hold its Heritage Day Festival 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Tuesday, March 26, on the museum grounds. Plans include arts and crafts booths, a scavenger hunt and other games, raffles, silent auctions, food vendors and a pirate invasion. For more information, call the AMIHS museum at 941-778-0492.

Friends lecture series continues at Roser

The Friends of the Island Library continues its annual lecture and travel series Thursday, Feb. 1, hosting bagpiper William “Highland Bill” Sanderson sharing a “Tunes, Tales and Kilts” talk. Sanderson will share a history of Scotland, discuss the wearing of kilts, talk about bagpipes and also perform in what the Friends group described as an “audience-participation show.” The program will begin at 2 p.m. in the fellowship hall at Roser Memorial Community Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. The series will continue Thursdays at 2 p.m. at the church through Feb. 22. For more information, go online to friendsoftheislandlibrary.org or call the Island Library at 941-7786341.

Privateers collecting scholarship applications

aBoVe: a.J. croce performs a sold-out show Jan. 26 at the center of anna maria island, 407 magnolia ave., anna maria, as part of the croce Plays croce 50th anniversary tour. the show marked the third concert in the 2023-24 Bradenton gulf island concert Series. croce played some of the songs made popular by his late father, Jim croce, who died in a plane crash in Louisiana 50 years ago. islander Photos: robyn murrell

marylee mull of Bradenton arrives early Jan. 26 at the center of anna maria island in anna maria for her seat in the second row, holding a postcard and wearing a t-shirt from an a.J. croce concert she attended 22 years ago in San diego. She’s been a Jim croce fan since age 12.

Ahoy, college-bound students. The Anna Maria Island Privateers opened the window to apply for 2024 scholarships. The window will close Friday, March 1. The applications are online at amiprivateers.org. To qualify, a student must be a Manatee County resident who can demonstrate positive community involvement. Applicants must be graduating seniors or enrolled in a post-secondary institution. The Privateers raise money for scholarships with events and other fundraisers. Scholarships usually are presented in late June or early July. For more information, go to amiprivateers.org or contact the scholarship committee chair Valerie “Dallas” Mabry at 941-896-0797 or scholarships@ amiprivateers.org.

Signature AMI gifts! White and tie-dye “More-Than-a-Mullet-Wrapper” T-shirts, $10-$15, and AMI stickers, $2. Call The Islander, 315 58th St., Holmes Beach, for ofﬁce hours or appointment.

Bike Werks is a bike shop on wheels coming to you by appointment to tune up your bikes on the spot. 301.532.2679 | bikewerks.com

Jan. 31, 2024 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 13 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

AME Calendar

By robyn murrell

• Monday, Feb. 5, 3:45 p.m., PTO general membership meeting, cafeteria. • Thursday, Feb. 22, 6:30 p.m., third-grade performance, auditorium. • Monday, Feb. 19, Presidents Day, no school. • Friday, March 1, 5:30-7:30 p.m., Princess Ball. • Wednesday, March 6, 1:50 p.m., early release. • Friday, March 8, 5:30-7:30 p.m., Boys Night Out. • Monday, March 11, walk-a-thon. • Friday, March 15, teacher workday, no school. • March 25-29, spring break, no school. • April 28, spring gala. Anna Maria elementary is at 4700 Gulf drive, holmes Beach. For more information, call the school at 941-708-5525.

HB student on dean’s list AME students learn ghost nets, sea turtles don’t mix dan van der Kooy, executive director of documentary content for the ocean cleanup, holds the microphone Jan. 25 while ame third-grader alex czajkowski asks a question. Students recently completed studies on pollution and shared their thoughts and ideas on the subject during the presentation in the auditorium. Holmes Beach. islander Photos: robyn murrell T-Shirts $10 @ The Islander, 315 58th St., HB.

Charles Strine of Holmes Beach made the dean’s list for the fall 2023 semester at James Madison University in Virginia. To qualify for the honor, students must take at least 12 graded credit hours and earn a grade-point average of 3.5-3.899. Strine is working toward a bachelor’s degree in kinesiology.

School achievements The Islander welcomes notices of achievements. Email news@islander.org.

WEDNESDAYS ARE BACK! ENTIRE FLEA MARKET OPEN Decal designer recognized ame principal michael masiello, Bliss rippy, center, Holmes Beach Police chief William tokajer and other officers stand Jan. 19 at the school. fifth-graders participated in an art contest themed “Police Protecting our community.” Bliss won and her artwork became a decal for the school resource officer’s cruiser. islander Photo: courtesy Holmes Beach Police department

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Page 14 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Jan. 31, 2024 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Tidings

Gathering

compiled by Lisa neff

this WeeK

By Lisa neff

Pickled about prep at COTA

Sunday, Feb. 4 4 p.m. — Pastor installation and service, Christ Church of longboat Key Presbyterian usA, 6400 Gulf of Mexico drive, longboat Key. info: 941-900-4903. Weekdays through Feb. 2 12:30 p.m. —Calvin College January series, roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria and remote. info: roserchurch.com.

Volunteers at the Episcopal Church of the AnnunsAVe the dAte ciation were set to gather the week beginning Jan. 29 Feb. 8, st. Bernard Women’s Guild luncheon, holmes to make pickles. Beach. The jarred pickles are a popular item at the church’s Feb. 10, episcopal Church of the Annunciation White elephant annual White Elephant Sale, which is set for Saturday, sale, holmes Beach. Feb. 10. Feb. 11, roser Church blood drive, Anna Maria. The church is at 4408 Gulf Drive, Holmes Feb. 11, longboat island Chapel super Bowl Cookout, longBeach. boat Key. For more info, call the church at 941-778-1638.

Driving donors at Roser

Roser Memorial Community Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, will hold a blood drive 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 11. Donors will receive a $20 gift card, a T-shirt and a wellness checkup. To make an appointment, go online to www. oneblooddonor.org and use the sponsor code 37502 and sponsor name “Roser Memorial Community Church”. For more information, call the church at 941-7780414.

Booking a sale on LBK

Feb. 11, st. Bernard super Bowl Pancake Breakfast, holmes Beach. Feb. 12, Christ Church Valentine luncheon Cruise, sarasota. Feb. 13, roser Guild tea, Anna Maria. Feb. 13, shrove tuesday/Mardi Gras. Feb. 14, Ash Wednesday. Feb. 23-24, st. Bernard Catholic Church rummage sale, holmes Beach. Feb. 25, episcopal Church of the Annunciation annual meeting and brunch, holmes Beach. Feb. 25, temple Beth israel anniversary gala, sarasota. Feb. 25, st. Bernard Pancake Breakfast, holmes Beach. March 14, roser Guild thrift shop Fashion show and luncheon, Anna Maria. March 31, easter.

days, 6 p.m., Wednesday night Blast supper and 6:30 p.m., Wednesday night Blast; Fridays, 10 a.m. women’s Bible meeting. Episcopal Church of the Annunciation, 4408 Gulf drive, holmes Beach. info: 941-778-1638, amiannunciation.org. Worship: thursdays, 9:30 a.m.; sundays, 8 a.m. and 10:15 a.m. ongoing: Most Wednesdays, 8 a.m., men’s breakfast; Mondays, 1 p.m., book club. Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, 6608 Marina drive. holmes Beach. info: 941-778-1813, gloriadeilutheran.com. Worship: sundays, 9:30 a.m., followed by coffee and fellowship. ongoing: First sundays, food bank collections; Wednesdays, 9:30 a.m., women’s social gathering. Harvey Memorial Community Church, 300 Church Ave., Bradenton Beach. information: 941-779-1912. Worship: sundays, 9:15 a.m. Roser Memorial Community Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. information: 941-778-0414, roserchurch.com. Worship: sundays, 8:30 a.m., 10 a.m. ongoing: tuesdays, thursdays, 9:30 a.m., roserrobics; tuesdays, 2 p.m., women’s book study; first and third Wednesdays, 11:30 a.m., Just older youth group; Wednesdays through April 17, 1 p.m., Griefshare; select Wednesdays, 9:30 a.m., Mom’s Cafe; Wednesdays, 11:30 a.m., holy yoga. St. Bernard Catholic Church, 248 s. harbor drive, holmes Beach. Info: 941-778-4769, stbernardcc.org, office@stbernardcc. org. Worship: Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m.; saturdays, 4 p.m.; sundays, 8:30 a.m., 10:30 a.m. ongoing: Monday-Friday, 8 a.m., rosary; Wednesdays, 7:30 a.m.; rosary on the Beach at Manatee Public Beach; saturdays, 3 p.m., confession. onGoinG oFF AMi

Christ Church of Longboat Key Presbyterian USA, 6400 Christ Church of Longboat Key will hold a threeGulf of Mexico drive, longboat Key. info: 941-900-4903, christchuronGoinG on AMi day book sale in February, including a public sale 9 choﬂ bk.org. a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 10. CrossPointe Fellowship, 8605 Gulf drive, holmes Beach. Worship: sundays, 10 a.m. The church is at 6400 Gulf of Mexico Drive. info: 941-778-0719, crosspointefellowship.church. ongoing: Wednesdays, 10 a.m., women’s Bible study; MonFor more information, call the church at 941-383Worship: sundays, 9 a.m. days, 9 a.m., men’s Bible study; tuesdays, 1:30 p.m., bridge club. 8833. ongoing: Wednesdays, 7 a.m., men’s Bible meeting; Wednes-

Growing in Jesus’ Name

Worship With Us at Our Church

February 4th Sunday Service 10:00 AM Dr. Julia Wharff Piermont, Pastor DĞŶ͛Ɛ ŝďůĞ ^ƚƵĚǇ͗ DŽŶĚĂǇ Λ ϵ͗ϬϬ tŽŵĞŶ͛Ɛ ŝďůĞ ^ƚƵĚǇ͗ tĞĚŶĞƐĚĂǇ Λ ϭϬ͗ϬϬ

Visitors & Residents Welcome tĂƚĐŚ KƵƌ 1Ϭ͗ϬϬ D ^ĞƌǀŝĐĞ >iǀĞ͗ ǁǁǁ͘ďŝƚ͘ůǇ/ĐĐůďŬƐĞƌŵŽŶƐ Žƌ ǁǁǁ͘ĐŚƌŝƐƚĐŚƵƌĐŚŽĨ ůďŬ͘ŽƌŐ (ĨŽůůŽǁ zŽƵdƵďĞ ůŝŶŬͿ

INSTALLATION OF THE PASTOR Sunday • February 4, 2024 • 4:00 PM

Gathering is

the religion section. Send announcements, calendar listings and photos to calendar@ islander.org.

Longboat Island Chapel, 6200 Gulf of Mexico drive, longboat Key. info: 941-383-6491, longboatislandchapel.org. Worship: sundays, 10 a.m. ongoing: Mondays, 4 p.m., choir practice. Temple Beth Israel, 567 Bay isles road, longboat Key. info: 941-383-3428. Worship: Fridays, shabbat, 5:30 p.m.; saturdays, 10 a.m.

Celebrating Super Bowl at St. B Kick off Super Bowl weekend with some sweetness at St. Bernard Catholic Church, 248 S. Harbor Drive, Holmes Beach. The church will hold a bake sale, basket raffle and all-you-can-eat pancake breakfast. The church’s women’s guild will conduct its bake sale and basket raffle kickoff after 4 p.m. Mass Saturday, Feb. 10, and again 8 a.m.-noon Sunday, Feb. 11, which is game day. Also on game day, the church’s

Holy Name Society will serve a pancake breakfast 8 a.m.-noon. The breakfast includes pancakes, sausage, eggs, orange juice and coffee. The cost for those 12 and older is $10. For more information, call the church at 941-778-4769.

Banner subject charles Wade, facilities administrator and Stephen minister at roser church, hangs a banner. roser’s JoY club will learn about the Stephen ministry in the fellowship hall at 11:30 a.m. Wednesday, feb. 7. roser is at 512 Pine ave., anna maria. islander courtesy Photo

Dr. Julia Wharff Piermont, Pastor

TŚŝƐ ŝƐ ĂŶ ĞǆĐŝƟŶŐ ƟŵĞ ĨŽƌ ŚƌŝƐƚ ŚƵƌĐŚ ĂƐ ǁĞ ǁĞůĐŽŵĞ :ƵůŝĂ͕ ŽƵƌ ĮƌƐƚ ĨƵůů ƟŵĞ ƉĂƐƚŽƌ͕ ƚŽ ŽƵƌ ĐŽŶŐƌĞŐĂƟŽŶĂů ĨĂŵŝůǇ ĂŶĚ ŽƵƌ ƐƵƌƌŽƵŶĚŝŶŐ ĐŽŵŵƵŶŝƚǇ͘ dŚŝƐ ŝƐ ĐůĞĂƌůǇ Ă ƟŵĞ ŽĨ ŶĞǁ ďĞŐŝŶŶŝŶŐƐ͘ dŽ ĨŽƌŵĂůůǇ ŵĂƌŬ ƚŚŝƐ ƐƉĞĐŝĂů ŵŽŵĞŶƚ͕ Ă Pastoral /ŶƐƚĂůůĂƟŽŶ ^ĞƌǀŝĐĞ ŝƐ ƉůĂŶŶĞĚ ĨŽƌ ^ƵŶĚĂǇ͕ &ĞďƌƵĂƌǇ ϰƚŚ Ăƚ ϰ͗ϬϬ WD͘ Ŷ /ŶƐƚĂůůĂƟŽŶ ^ĞƌǀŝĐĞ͕ Ă ĮƌƐƚ ĨŽƌ ŚƌŝƐƚ ŚƵƌĐŚ͕ ĐůĞĂƌůǇ ƵŶĚĞƌƐĐŽƌĞƐ͕ ŝŶ ƚŚĞ ĞǇĞƐ ŽĨ 'ŽĚ͕ ƚŚĞ ƉĂƐƚŽƌ͛Ɛ ƌĞƐƉŽŶƐŝďŝůŝƟĞƐ ƚŽ ƚŚĞ ĐŚƵƌĐŚ͕ ĂŶĚ ƚŚĞ ĐŽŶŐƌĞŐĂƟŽŶ͛Ɛ ƌĞƐƉŽŶƐŝďŝůŝƟĞƐ ƚŽ ƚŚĞ ƉĂƐƚŽƌ͕ ĂƐ ǁĞ Ăůů ƐĞĞŬ ƚŽ 'ƌŽǁ ŝŶ :ĞƐƵƐ͛ EĂŵĞ͘ ƌĞĐĞƉƟŽŶ ǁŝůů ĨŽůůŽǁ ƚŚĞ ƐĞƌǀŝĐĞ͘

Visitors and Residents are Welcome ϲϰϬϬ 'ƵůĨ ŽĨ DĞǆŝĐŽ ƌ͘ • ϵϰϭ͘ϯϴϯ͘ϴϴϯϯ ;ŽĸĐĞͿ • ǁǁǁ͘ĐŚƌŝƐƚĐŚƵƌĐŚŽŇďŬ͘ŽƌŐ

Roser Church

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SUNDAY WORSHIP 8:30 AM & 10:00 AM

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Sign up to receive the eBulletin at RoserChurch.com/contact-us The CHAPEL is open during office hours for prayer and meditation 941-778-0414 • 512 Pine Ave, Anna Maria • FOLLOW us on Facebook @RoserChurch

Jan. 31, 2024 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 15 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Philanthropic leaders to be recognized with Spirit awards

Manatee Community Foundation announced the winners of the 2024 Spirit of Manatee Awards, each being recognized for leadership in philanthropy in Manatee County. The honorees include Amanda and John Horne, business leaders in Bradenton Beach, where they operate the Anna Maria Oyster Bar on the Pier. At a ceremony March 13 at the Bradenton Area Convention Center in Palmetto, the Hornes will receive the Mary E. Parker Lifetime Spirit Award. Other honorees include Lorenzo Liberti, recipient of the Young Spirit Award; the Sertoma Club of Bradenton, Community Spirit Award; Johnette Isham, posthumous, Charles Clapsaddle Community Spotlight Award; and Larry Clark, Leadership Spirit Award. “Well known for their generous charitable giving and leadership in our region, each of our winners embodies an authentic and caring commitment to our community,” Veronica Thames, executive director of Manatee Community Foundation, said in a news release.

GoodDeeds

Assistance sought on AMI

• The Annie Silver Community Center seeks volunteers for activities and events, as well as members and bakers for desserts. Information: 724-787-1418. • The Florida Institute for Saltwater Heritage seeks volunteers for its fishing festival Feb. 17-18 in Cortez. Information: fishcortez.org. • The Anna Maria Island Art League seeks volunteers for the Springfest Fine Arts Festival March 16-17 in Holmes Beach. Info: 419-450-4824. • The Artists’ Guild of Anna Maria Island welcomes members to support the gallery, 5414 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Info: amiartistsguildgallery. com, 941-778-6694. • The Island Players, 10009 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria, seeks volunteers for the 75th season of shows. Info: theislandplayers.org, 941-941 7785755. • The Anna Maria Island Historical Society, 402 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, seeks volunteer docents and bakers. Info: 941-778-0492. • The Friends of the Island Library welcomes members to support the island branch, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Info: 941-778-6341, friendsoftheislandlibrary.org. • Wildlife Inc. rescue and rehabilitation in Bradenton Beach seeks help tending to injured animals. Info: 941-778-6342. • Roser Food Bank seeks donations. Roser Memorial Community Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, administers the pantry, supported by All Island Denominations. Info: 941-778-0414.

Lighting the ‘Dream’ mia Still, holding the check on the right, and court Zoller, behind Still, of the Bradenton Beach marina present $4,500 Jan. 20 to the dream oaks camp in Bradenton. the camp provides day and residential camp experiences for children with special needs or living with chronic illness. the money was raised with the fifth annual Bradenton Beach Holiday Lighted Boat Parade. Still, who provides executive assistance for tours and operations at the marina, said presenting the symbolic check and spending time with the dream oaks campers was joyous. the marina operates at 402 church ave. islander courtesy Photo

Obituary

Ada Glowacki

Ada Glowacki of Perico Island and formerly of Anna Maria died Jan. 19. She was born and raised in Oakfield, New York, and was a teacher and principal for 30 years, as well as an accomplished cook, golfer, literacy and Alzheimer’s disease warrior, and a beloved member of the Genesee County, New York, community in glowacki the summer. She began visiting AMI in 1960, when her husband’s family purchased property at the corner of Pine Avenue and Jacaranda — now the North Shore Cafe. She visited for spring break and holidays and AMI became her favorite place/beach. While the island changed over the years, her steadfast support never wavered. She retired with her husband to AMI and they continued to enjoy the island lifestyle as snowbirds for many years. They spent time on the beach with their friends, children and grandchildren, including a

nightly sunset ritual. The couple eventually moved to Perico Island but visited the island beaches as often as possible to read a good book and enjoy the beach. Mrs. Glowacki was proud her grandchildren are fourth generation stewards of the island. A celebration of her life will be held in May in Oakfield. Memorial donations may be made to the Western New York Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association at https://www.alz.org/wny. Mrs. Glowacki is survived by her children and their spouses, grandchildren and an extended family.

At your service

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

Meeting marinelife at Mote outreach center adelyn Blair, 9, of Lemars, iowa, reaches out Jan. 23 to touch a pencil urchin in the touch tank at the mote marine Laboratory & aquarium’s marine Science education and outreach center on the anna maria city Pier. islander Photo: ryan Paice

Assistance offered on AMI

• Roser Food Bank welcomes applicants who live and/or work on Anna Maria Island for food assistance, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Info: 941778-0414. • AID offers financial help to those who live on the island, go to church on the island, attend school on the island and work on the island. Info: 941-725-2433. — Lisa neff

GoodDeeds notices: To list an organization’s aid services on AMI or a call for help, email lisa@islander. org with details.

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Page 16 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Jan. 31, 2024 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

ՄҴ -$)"$)" ! ($'$ . #*( !*- (*- /# ) һҳ 4 -.Ӯ Լ ҴҼҶҼӮ

' ./ / ' . ӿ /$*) )/ '. ӿ -*+ -/4 ) " ( )/

ҵҵҴҺ 0'! -$1 өӪ - )/*) #Ӫ ҶҷҵҴҺ ө ө ӿ ҼҷҴөҺҺһөҵҵҷҹ

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Jan. 31, 2024 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 17 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

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Page 18 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Jan. 31, 2024 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Captains for Clean Water brings conservation message to AMI capt. chris Wittman of captains for clean Water speaks Jan. 23 at the center of anna maria island about combating pollution. islander Photo: robert anderson

By robert anderson islander reporter

RELEASE DATE: 1/28/2024

New York Times Sunday Magazine Crossword

Capt. Chris Wittman of Captains for Clean Water shed light on efforts to combat toxic discharges from Lake Okeechobee that adversely impact the Everglades and Florida coasts to a full room at the Center Anna Maria Island. The audience at the Anna Maria forum Jan. 23 included residents, business owners and fishing and tour guides. Captains for Clean Water, a nonprofit founded in 2016 by Capt. Daniel Andrews and Wittman, advocates for the restoration of Florida waterways. Wittman delved into the history of water discharges from Lake Okeechobee into the Caloosahatchee and St. Lucie rivers. Okeechobee, the second-largest freshwater lake within the continental United States, is part of a waterway system managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. The Caloosahatchee River and St. Lucie Canal serve as the primary outlets for the lake. Okeechobee was not originally connected to either the east coast or the west coast, but in 1883 a canal was excavated between the lake and the Caloosahatchee. The Caloosahatchee flows across the state, discharging into the waters of Pine Island Sound and the Gulf of Mexico near Fort Myers Beach, Pine Island and Captiva. The St. Lucie was connected to Okeechobee when the St. Lucie Canal was constructed in the 1920s. Wittman said one of the biggest opponents Captains for Clean Water faces in the fight to restore the Everglades is Big Sugar, a moniker for the influential sugar industry in south Florida. Millions of gallons of polluted water coming off sugar cane fields are pumped into Okeechobee annually by the South Florida Water Management District. The discharges contaminate water supplies and fuel blue-green algae blooms, according to Wittman. The pollution has consequences for ocean waterways and coastal economies. When water from the lake is discharged, it finds its way into the Atlantic Ocean and Gulf of Mexico, leading to red tide outbreaks that can pose health risks to humans and have adverse effects on marinelife, often resulting in fish kills. Wittman referred to large-scale fish kills in 2016 and 2018.

Recent research conducted in 2022 by the University of Florida and the Sarasota Bay Estuary Program established a definitive connection between discharges of polluted waters from Okeechobee and the occurrence of red tide. SBEP executive director David Tomasko, with researchers from the University of Florida and Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation, co-authored a recent article explaining how red tides begin offshore and move toward shore. “As blooms meet with the coast, human-contributed nutrients, specifically nitrogen, can influence bloom intensity and duration,” the paper states. Scientists involved in the research used computational methods to connect discharges from the Caloosahatchee to intensified red tide blooms in Southwest Florida between 2012 and 2021. The authors traced human influence on bloom intensity to Okeechobee and indicated that watershed-scale nutrient management is necessary to reduce human impacts on blooms. The detrimental effects of discharges have not gone unnoticed, with environmentalists and local communities expressing concerns. Wittman said Captains for Clean Water’s advocacy work is gaining momentum, drawing attention to the interconnectedness of environmental issues in Florida. He encouraged people to apply political pressure

to safeguard the waterways. “The more people bring attention to a national spotlight issue like Everglades restoration, the more it shows policymakers that water quality issues are something that constituents care about,” Wittman said. “And that cultivates a new culture of policymakers that will create a platform they can run on and win on.” One audience member asked about the spraying of glyphosate, the active ingredient in Roundup, by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission on invasive water plant species in water bodies that feed into Okeechobee and in the lake. Wittman said the state has a $22 million annual budget to manage plant life with herbicide in Florida’s lakes and rivers. Wittman said the chemical management program furthered the nutrient-loading problems in Okeechobee because, as sprayed plants decay, they add to the nutrient load of the water body. He said mechanical plant removal, although more expensive, is the best way to remove invasive vegetation. For more information on Captains for Clean Water, call 866-670-2329 or go online to captainsforcleanwater.org.

County reviews water work

Manatee County natural resources director Charlie Hunsicker described area efforts to protect water quality, in a Jan. 24 news release. Hunsicker said water quality in the county is regularly monitored at more than 80 sites, with more than 11,000 samples tested annually. “Manatee County is working hard to always observe where we are in our water-quality picture,” Hunsicker said. He said initiatives to protect water quality include: • Wastewater treatment upgrades‚ $600 million invested over the next five years. • Increased street sweeping. • 5,000 seagrass plugs planted. • 25,000 trees planted in 2023. • 15,000 acres of habitat restored. • 1,500 vertical oyster gardens installed. — robert anderson

No. 0114

ER, IN OTHER WORDS ... BY JOHN KUGELMAN / EDITED BY WILL SHORTZ John Kugelman is a software engineer and musician from Gainesville, Va. He has worked in cybersecurity for many years. ‘‘I like anything that’s complicated and puzzle-y,’’ John says. ‘‘Any engineering problem is fascinating to me.’’ (And what is crossword construction, after all, but the engineering of words?) This is John’s second crossword for The Times, both Sundays. — W.S.

AC R O S S 57 Muscat resident 109 ‘‘Boy Wonder’’ of 22 Disney villain who’s comics the grand vizier of 59 Leaves slack-jawed 1 Hurricanes and Agrabah 113 & 117 The Grim tornadoes 60 Farmers? 25 / Reaper? 9 One of 12, biblically 63 Took big steps 120 Live content creators 28 Replies of disgust 17 ‘‘Way to go, me!’’ 65 Unplanned 121 They might be 29 Stoolie preview, perhaps 19 Grape from France’s flagged Côte-d’Or 31 Somewhat 66 See here! as ‘‘Potential Spam’’ 32 Section of a syllabus 20 Great ape? 67 ____ of Orleans, 122 Seasonal charity moniker 22 Erotic artist? 33 ____ Griffin, civil event for Joan of Arc rights pioneer 23 5-Down’s pet 123 Cuts down to size 68 Supply, as elevator 34 Meat jelly 24 Ooze music 35 Butler on ‘‘The 26 Authors 71 Switch hitter? DOWN Addams Family’’ 27 Yesterday, in Spanish 78 Zeno of ____, 1 V on the N.Y.S.E. 36 Japanese mushroom 30 ____ Jam (record paradoxical thinker 2 Albatross, 38‘ ‘Pass,’’ in a casino label) 79 Fastest train in the metaphorically 39 Quadcopter, e.g. 31 ‘‘Let me be perfectly U.S. 3 Hypnotized, say ____’’ (Pride slogan) 40 Concrete support 80 Spot for a microphone 4 Some closet organizers 41 Straws in the wind 34 Guinness of 81 What might be drawn 5 ‘‘The Jetsons’’ boy ‘‘The Ladykillers’’ 42 Sweet-talked with a ‘‘C’’ in 6 Crossed (out) 37 Street magician? cartoons 43 Origin of the words 7 Online school closing? 44 Made, as a putt 82 Plans of study ‘‘cake’’ and ‘‘egg’’ 8 Nurses 45 Stockpile 85 Time’s 2023 Athlete 49 Actor George who of the Year 9 Dash’s partner wrote the 1994 46 Linger autobiography ‘‘To 10 Ancient Romans 47 Rock’s ____ Fighters 87 Appropriate the Stars’’ made it from soot 89 Hail, to Caesar 48 Toast with a raised 51 Police accountability stein 11 Purchase for a golf 90 Warm touch tool course 50 Bad thing to drop in 92 Gunpowder 53 Rapper ____ B polite company ingredient 12 Nexus: Abbr. 56 List 52 Anthony Hopkins won 94 Top pair 13 Peeved this with only 16 95 Animal tranquilizer? 14 Indigo Girls song with 58 Demure minutes of screen the chorus ‘‘Adding 61 E. R. shout 98 Trash time up the total of a love 62 Author Gaiman 99 Pan handle? 54 Reply of disgust that’s true/Multiply 63 What a crackerjack 100 Communication with life by the . . .’’ 55 One hitting the space cracker jacks one’s hands, for bar? 15 Creditor’s security short 64 Does some field work 16 Makes a misstep 67 Superlatively sullen Online subscriptions: Today’s 101 Target of Y.A. fiction puzzle and more 18 Ready, with ‘‘up’’ 103 Word with straw or Answers: 68 Praline ingredient than 4,000 past puzzles, swing 19 Wrinkle-faced dog nytimes.com/crosswords page 28 69 Valentine candy ($39.95 a year). 105 Big Apple figure 21 Cash in message

70 Not open to appeal, as 79 Law enforcer in the Harry Potter a court decision universe 71 Bass symbol 83 Longtime actor on 72 Tiniest bit ‘‘Law & Order: SVU’’ 73 Actress Fisher of 84 Give a darn ‘‘Eighth Grade’’ 86 All together 74 Worshiper of Jah, 88 Emulate Jack Sprat informally 91 Old SeaWorld mascot 75 Insurance giant 93 Parkway or 76 Mental fogs expressway: Abbr. 77 Lock 96 Complained

97 Keyboard corner key

110 Zodiac symbol

102 Straight up

111 Sicily or Sardinia

103 Like the open sea

112 Ending with late or great

104 Not fooled by 105 Some carry a spare one in a boot 106 Smartphone platform

114 ‘‘____ out!’’ 115 ‘‘The Dark Side of the Moon’’ studio 116 Fire (up)

107 Bit of decoration at a 118 Texter’s ‘‘Truthfully . . .’’ beach house 119 French chess piece 108 Not just think

Jan. 31, 2024 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 19 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

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County commissioners table library board appointments By dawn Kitterman the Bradenton times

Despite several citizens volunteering to fill Manatee County’s library advisory board openings, commissioners Jan. 23 voted 6-1 to “table” appointments and readvertise for additional applicants. The board is one of more than a dozen citizen advisory boards or committees. Volunteer appointees are determined through an application process followed by a nomination and final appointment by a vote of commissioners. The primary function of the library board is to advise commissioners on matters pertaining to the library system, including on policy services. In April 2023, commissioners voted to expand the board from five seats, adding four additional seats. The expansion was a compromise to a prior suggestion brought by Commissioner Amanda Ballard, R-District 3, who proposed the board approve the creation of a second citizen’s library advisory board. County Ordinance 23-105, which expanded the board, was adopted in October 2023 and, the following month, the newly created seats — plus two existing seats ending their terms — were advertised. Per the county’s instruction, residents were asked to submit applications by Dec. 20, 2023. The appointment of applicants was scheduled for the Jan. 23 meeting but Ballard raised a concern about the applicant pool. “We do have several applicants for a couple of the seats but I do think it’s unfortunate that for a couple of the seats we only have one applicant,” Ballard said before suggesting commissioners consider “reopening” the application period to “see if we get more than one applicant for some of the new seats.” Based on the application matrix attached to the meeting agenda, two of the newly created seats had three or more applicants, while two had one. The resumes submitted by each applicant appear to show that all applicants for any available position met or exceeded the requirements for the seat. During a commission meeting earlier in the month, at-large Commissioner George Kruse, R-District 7, proposed commissioners consider expanding the number of advisory boards to cover more topics and to provide more opportunities for citizen input. Commissioner Mike Rahn, R-District 4, responded in part, “My concern is we put these things out there and then some of them don’t even get recognized or filled.” Commissioner Kevin Van Ostenbridge, R-District 3, also weighed in during the last meeting, agreeing the county was having trouble “getting full participation” on existing boards. But on Jan. 23, Van Ostenbridge seemed less concerned about participation. Joining by phone, he said, “I just want to say that I am not particularly satisfied with the applicants on the list.” He then motioned that the board direct staff to readvertise the openings and seek additional appli-

Lecturer Katya Koshedub points to her display of ukrainian crafts as audience members approach for a closer look at the end of her presentation. the display featured intricate artwork, including traditional ukrainian easter eggs.

Library lecturer explores Ukrainian culture, history a friends of the island Library speaker, Katya Koshedub, talks about ukrainian history and culture Jan. 25 in the fellowship hall at roser memorial community church, 512 Pine ave., anna maria. Koshedub introduced the audience to traditional ukrainian practices such as bandura playing. Koshedub, who was born in montreal, also spoke about the impacts of the russian invasion on the life of ukrainians, including those who came to the united States as a result of the war. islander Photos: masha dolgoff

Checking out the library board applicants By Lisa neff islander editor

The Manatee Board of County Commissioners voted 6-1 Jan. 23 to issue another call for applicants for its library advisory board, despite having 13 applicants seeking the posts. Commissioner Kevin Van Ostenbridge, R-District 3, who represents Anna Maria Island, north Longboat Key, Cortez and other parts of west Manatee, motioned to readvertise the positions, saying he didn’t see many “like-minded” people among the applicants. The pool included two people seeking reappointment, as well as four applicants from Anna Maria Island and Longboat Key. Reappointment applicants: • Christine Callahan of Bradenton, a retired database programmer appointed to the board in February 2020. She was recommended by Bradenton Mayor Gene Brown for reappointment. • Patty Ugarte of Palmetto, a retired office manager appointed to the board in February 2017. AMI or Longboat Key applicants for one seat: • Ashley Dawson of Longboat Key, a stay at home mom involved in Longboat Key Turtle Watch since 2016. Dawson, in her application, said, “I would love the PLeaSe, See library board, neXt Page

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opportunity to collaborate on ideas and help expand our youth’s educational resources for the library. I have lived on Longboat (full-time) for nine years and would love to get more involved with the community.” • Nancy Deal of Holmes Beach, a retired educator who’s been active with the Friends of the Island Library, Anna Maria Island Historical Society, Holmes Beach Charter Review Commission, Anna Maria Island Bridge Aesthetics Committee and more. Deal, in her application, said in part that she understands and appreciates “the fact that public libraries are essential for a healthy, ever-changing and diverse democracy. I want to contribute as I can to the continuation of the mission of all public libraries, especially those in my community.” • Karen Moss of Anna Maria, a retired educator who’s been active with Manasota Buds and church youth ministries. Moss said, “I feel books have a powerful impact in the lives of our children and their families. I feel that serving on the library advisory committee is a great opportunity to continue to serve this community that I love.” • Cory Wright of Holmes Beach, an artist active with the League of Women Voters of Manatee PLeaSe, See applicants, neXt Page

Jan. 31, 2024 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 21 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

library board from page 20

cants. At-large Commissioner Jason Bearden, R-6, seconded the motion. Two applicants were current board members seeking reappointments. Each maintained a greater than 90 percent meeting attendance and board participation rate during their previous four-year appointment. In considering support of Van Ostenbridge’s motion, Commissioner Ray Turner, R-District 5, sought the expertise of library services manager Tammy Parrott, who said in her years of experience overseeing the applicant process for the board, this year was notable. “This is the most robust application pool I have seen since I started working at the county,” Parrott answered. “I was very pleased with the response.” Parrott also said, “The current board is set to expire at the end of January and the new board was to be seated in February in order to begin its work.” Then, directing his inquiry to Van Ostenbridge, Turner asked him to elaborate on what specifically he was “unsatisfied” with concerning the applicant pool before the board. Van Ostenbridge answered, “I don’t see very many individuals on this list who are like-minded with this board.” The county attorney said delaying the appointments would render the board without a quorum and unable to conduct business. But Van Ostenbridge was not swayed. “I’d rather the board not meet at all than to have a board that is going to meet and make decisions that are not in line with this county commission,” he suggested. Kruse, who has grown accustomed to being on the single side of several six-to-one votes in recent months, disagreed with delaying the appointments. “Let’s be honest,” Kruse began, “this was a betteradvertised applicant process than almost every advisory board we have.” He suggested commissioners at a minimum approve the two reappointments. Bearden added comments before the vote. “The overall concerns on this board regarding this sensitive subject, ensuring that we have the proper people in place on this board because of the things that have happened these last few years regarding libraries,” Bearden began without elaborating on the “things” he was referring to. “I mean, it is what it is.” “So, if commissioners are getting a check to take a step back to look at the applicants or to put it back on the street, I think that’s a smart move in regards to ensuring that we are moving our county in the right

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Night at the museum Docent Dave Haddox takes a closer at mosaic artist Judy Vazquez’s creations during the Artful Evening Jan. 24 at the Anna Maria Island Historical Society Museum, 402 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. The event featured artists working in different media, as well as board members and docents welcoming art patrons. Islander Photos: Masha Dolgoff Judy Vazquez, reflected in her mirror frame work, talks about creating art during an Artful Evening. Vazquez was one of several artists attracting foot traffic to the Anna Maria Island Historical Society Museum, which usually is visited for its historical displays and materials.

Artist LuAnn Widergren paints at the Anna Maria Island Historical Society’s Artful Evening Jan. 24 on the museum porch.

Liz Hager, left, AMIHS president, and AMIHS recording secretary Carolyn Orshak enjoy refreshments Jan. 24 at the museum during an Artful Evening.

direction—the way that this board wants to do that, which is the majority of this board,” Bearden said. According to the citizens’ applications, of the 13 applicants, at least 10 have bachelor’s degrees. More than one have obtained their Master’s and at least one carried a PhD. The professional and educational experience of the applicants included a range of work experience and studies, degrees in education, business, economics, library study and law. Nearly all the applicants had prior experience serving on citizen advisory boards or volunteering within their communities. In the end, commissioners voted to approve readvertising the positions, with Kruse the “no” vote. Editor’s note: This report, edited for length, was published by The Bradenton Times at thebradentontimes.com. It is reprinted with permission.

applicants from page 20

County. Wright wrote that she wants to “be a link between the library and the diverse community it serves. As a citizen, I’m deeply troubled by the rampant uptick in the banning of books in Florida and I’m a firm believer in the importance of an educated and well-informed society.” Lakewood Ranch/Myakka applicants for one seat: Realtor Richard Lewis Jr., retired attorney Colleen Lundwall and nursing dean Tammy Sawmelle. Master of Library Science applicants for one seat: Retired university librarian Diane Goodman and retired reference librarian Pamela Gibson. School District of Manatee County parent applicant for one seat: Sales executive Isidro Iturralde. Home-schooled parent applicant for one seat: Insurance agent Kris Hager of District 3.

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Streetlife

Cops & Courts

Island police reports

Anna Maria No new reports. The Manatee County Sheriff’s Ofﬁce polices Anna Maria. Bradenton Beach Jan. 17, 111 Bridge St., Island Time Bar and Grill, trespassing. A Bradenton Beach police officer was dispatched to a report of trespassing. A man trespassed from the establishment returned and refused to leave. The man was arrested and transported to the Manatee County Jail in Palmetto. Jan. 18, 2500 block of Gulf Drive North, reckless driver. An officer responded to reports of a reckless driver. A motorist in a white SUV was traveling north on Gulf Drive at a high speed and drove over a crosswalk sign. The officer moved the sign, requested a new sign and filed an incident report. The BBPD polices Bradenton Beach. Cortez No new reports. The MCSO polices Cortez. Holmes Beach Jan. 16, 5300 block of Gulf Drive, Marchman Act. A Holmes Beach police officer responded to calls to assist Manatee County Emergency Medical Services in treating a man who collapsed in a parking lot. The officer woke the man and determined he was too intoxicated to care for himself. After EMS checked the man’s vital signs, the officer placed the man in protective custody under the Marchman Act and transported him to the HCA Florida Blake Hospital in Bradenton. Jan. 19, 500 block of 74th Street, theft. An HBPD officer responded to reports of a past theft and spoke with a woman who said a pair of $2,000 earrings were missing from her home after it was cleaned by a service. The crew returned to the home so the officer could check their possessions. The earrings were not found. Jan. 19, Publix, 3900 E. Bay Drive, trespass. An officer responded to complaints about a man harassing employees and customers. A manager described the man, who was found in the parking lot. The officer supervised as the manager trespassed the man from the property. Jan. 20, Publix, 3900 E. Bay Drive, repeat trespass/marijuana. Two officers responded to reports that a man who had trespassed the store the day before returned and was in the restroom. The officers arrested the man, who said he did not remember he had been

MCSO lieutenant: crime down in Anna Maria By ryan Paice islander reporter

not as bad as they might seem, according to Belt. Belt said the only robbery reported might not actually qualify as robbery, which is the use of force to take something. He said the report was made by an intoxicated man who was causing problems at a bar and was asked to leave, then later reported his cellphone missing. He added that the two motor vehicle thefts were due to the thefts of a motorized bicycle and a motorcycle. There were no automobile thefts. Otherwise, Belt noted that many of the city’s reported larcenies were for stolen rental bikes left unlocked by vacationers. He said the issue was difficult to prevent, but suggested coordinating with rental bike companies to provide locks to renters and hopefully reduce the number of larcenies. Belt said the MCSO would continue work for a reduction in the city’s crime rate in 2024. “We can’t guarantee we’ll do another 18%, but we’re going to keep working. And we just ask the public to help us out if you see anything suspicious,” he said. Mayor Dan Murphy praised Belt and the MCSO’s efforts over the past year. “We’re not crime-free by any stretch of the imagination, but I think the lieutenant and his team have done a real good job of making things safe and making our city a better place to live,” Murphy said.

trespassed because he was intoxicated at the time. An officer searched the man and found a bag containing marijuana. The officer confiscated the substance and transported the man to the Manatee County jail. Jan. 21, Haley’s Motel, 8102 Gulf Drive, domestic disturbance/trespass. An officer responded to reports of people fighting in the parking lot. A complainant said he heard a man loudly fighting with a woman in a neighboring room. He said he had exited his room to see a woman lying on the floor and a man walking away. Both the man and the woman told police they only were in a verbal argument but the officer photographed signs of injury on the woman and supervised as a motel representative trespassed the couple from the property. Jan. 22, Manatee Public Beach, 4000 Gulf Drive, harassment/trespass. An officer responded to a complaint about a man harassing a Manatee County Area Transit trolley driver who had parked her vehicle to

take a break. The driver said the man was tapping on the trolley door and asking to board. An MCAT supervisor trespassed the man from the service for six months but later called the Holmes Beach Police Department to rescind the trespass. HBPD polices Holmes Beach. Streetlife is based on incident reports and narratives from the BBPD, HBPD and MCSO.

Crime in Anna Maria is on a downward trajectory. Manatee County Sheriff’s Office Lt. John Belt reported that overall criminal activity in the city last year was down 18% from 2022, according to the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s National Incident-Based Reporting System. The NIBRS system standardizes criminal reporting across the country, categorizing crimes that might be reported differently by jurisdiction. There are two types of incident reports in the system, including type A, which are serious crimes such as homicide or robbery, and type B, minor incidents that are only reported if police make an arrest. Belt, who supervises Sgt. Brett Getman at the MCSO’s Anna Maria substation, presented NIBRS’s criminal statistics for the municipality over 2023. Type A incidents included 18 larcenies, two motor vehicle thefts, an aggravated assault, one burglary and one robbery. Belt said that, when only considering type A incidents, crime in the city was down 25% from 2022 to 2023. “It’s unheard of. It’s huge numbers,” he said Jan. 11. Additionally, some of the type A incidents were

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

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Holmes Beach moves forward with noise ordinance changes By ryan Paice islander reporter

Proposed changes to the city of Holmes Beach’s noise ordinance are a vote away from adoption. City commissioners unanimously voted Jan. 23 to approve a first reading revising the noise ordinance to establish clearer, more objective standards. The proposed changes were sparked by a June 7, 2023, ruling by augello Judge Amanda Arnold Sansone of the Middle District of Florida finding a subsection of the noise ordinance void due to vagueness and in violation of the Fourteenth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution. The case — Harbor Breeze AMI, LLC et al v. City of Holmes Beach, Florida et al — began in July 2022 and was based on a Nov. 27, 2021, noise violation citation upheld by attorney Michael Connolly, the city’s special magistrate. Subsection 30-55(2)(a) sets the standards code and law enforcement officers can use to determine violations, such as duration and volume of the noise, which can be measured with a decibel meter. Sansone ruled some of the standards, such as intensity and nature of a noise, are too subjective. Her ruling enjoined the city from enforcing the subsection. In response, city attorney Erica Augello and city commissioners began workshopping potential changes, including removing subjective standards, revising the subsection to minimize ambiguity and expanding the ordinance’s plainly audible clause. The clause currently allows code and law enforcement officers to determine noise violations for sounds plainly audible — or “clearly heard by a person using his or her normal hearing faculties,” according to the code — 100 feet or more from a property line of the sound’s source from 10 p.m.-7 a.m. Sansone found no issue with the plainly audible clause, so Augello proposed to expand it by removing the time frame. Otherwise, the noise ordinance will retain the same decibel levels for determining noise violations as before. Any sounds measured 7 a.m.-10 p.m. at more than 65 A-weighted decibels, or dBA — a scale based on intensity and how the human ear responds instead of sound intensity like the dB scale — remains a violation in the proposed ordinance.

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HB magistrate OKs expansion of nonconforming home By ryan Paice islander reporter

Holmes Beach’s special magistrate settled a building code technicality for a homeowner hoping to expand their property. Special magistrate Michael Connolly of the Sarasota-based Fournier, Connolly, Shamsey, Mladinich & Polz law firm, ruled Jan. 23 to approve a requested expansion for nonconforming property at 5800 De Palmas Ave. The existing one-story 1,344-square-foot single-family home was built in 1968 and is owned by Rosemarie Cayo. The property is considered a corner lot, with frontage on De Palmas Avenue and 58th Street, in the city’s R-2 residential zoning district. While the property meets most R-2 zoning regulations, it is a nonconforming structure because it was partly built in a 20-foot secondary front-yard setback measured from the 58th Street right of way. The city’s land development code establishes a process for nonconforming structures to be expanded with a magistrate’s approval. Blueprints show plans for a 600-square-foot second-floor addition to a nonconforming property at 5800 de Palmas ave., Holmes Beach. islander Photo: courtesy Holmes Beach

Any sounds measured 10 p.m.-7 a.m. exceeding 50 dBA will remain violations. Holmes Beach Police Chief Bill Tokajer said the changes would be easy for his officers to understand and enforce. Commissioner Carol Soustek moved to approve the first reading. Commissioner Pat Morton seconded the motion,

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Using that process, Cayo requested approval for a 600-square-foot second-floor expansion to her home. The expansion would not be located within the setback. Chad Minor, the city’s planning and zoning administrator, presented the request to Connolly at the Jan. 23 hearing. Minor said city staff had reviewed the request and found it consistent with the LDC’s criteria for expansion, as well as compatible with adjacent land uses and developmental patterns in the area. He said staff recommended approval of Cayo’s request with a condition that such approval becomes void if the owner fails to apply for a building permit or begin the approved work within 180 days. Cayo, who attended the meeting, agreed to the conditions. Connolly ruled to approve the requested expansion and the city staff’s recommended conditions. There was no public comment. The next magistrate hearing will be held at 10 a.m. Tuesday, Feb. 27, at city hall, 5801 Marina Drive.

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which passed. There was no public comment. The proposed ordinance will go before the planning commission at 5 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 7, at city hall, 5801 Marina Drive. The ordinance will then go back to the city commission for a second reading at 2 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 13, also at city hall.

Page 24 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Jan. 31, 2024 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Local tennis player comes ‘oh so’ close, KRC holds championship By Kevin P. cassidy islander reporter

andrea Saia took first place with 19 points in the annual President’s cup tournament Jan. 24, playing in a modified-Stableford system format.

Perico Island resident Mark Malinowski came oh so close to representing Florida for the National 4.5 40-and-over singles tennis tournament — to be played in Orlando or Phoenix — in November. Playing Jan. 20 at the Hunter’s Green Country Club, Malinowski won his first two matches against Driss Ouazzani of Heathrow 4-2, 4-2 cassidy and Andres Merchan from Clearwater 4-1, 4-0. In his third round-robin match, Malinowski held six match points, but could not convert and ended up falling to Miami’s Marcio Moran 2-4, 4-2, 8-10. There’s always next time,” Malmalinowski inowski said. “Tough loss, but that’s tennis. Marcio didn’t miss anything from 2-6 down in the tiebreaker. He played unbelievably tough at the end to save six match points, The men played their weekly modified-Stableford Malinowski said. Moran went on to win the final on Jan. 21 4-2, 4-3 system match Jan. 22 at the Holmes Beach club. Don Grau earned clubhouse bragging rights with a plus-6, against Chris Cazin of Tampa. two points ahead of second-place finishers Tony Bettis and Greg Jump. KRC golf news The women’s weekly individual low-net match The Key Royale Club women held their annual President’s Cup Tournament Jan. 24, playing in a mod- was played Jan. 23 and saw Sue Christenson card an even-par 32 to win first place in Flight A by one stroke ified-Stableford system format. Andrea Saia took first place with 19 points, closely over Marcia Friesen. Mary Wilke and Roxanne Koch followed by Marcia Friessen and Nina McSparren with were tied for third place at 2-over-par 34. Judy Todd’s chip-in on the fifth hole propelled her 16 points. Linda Dorsey, Pam Lowry and Mary Wilkie to an even-par 32 and a first-place finish in Flight B. tied for third place with 15 points each.

Terry Westby was alone in second place with a 1-overpar 33, while Judy Menchek took third place at 2-overpar 34. Menchek and Linda Dorsey both birdied the eighth hole. Horseshoe news Horseshoe action Jan. 24 at the Anna Maria City Hall pits saw three teams advance from pool play to the knockout round. The team of Bob Lee and Bob Hawks drew the bye into the finals and watched Dom Livedoti and Steve Kriebel advance with a 22-5 victory over Tom Farrington and Dave Means. In the finals, Livedoti and Kriebel won the day’s championship with a 21-7 victory over Lee and Hawks. PLeaSe, See sports, neXt Page

cheerleaders form a tunnel as players in the community center flag football league take the field. islander Photos: courtesy Brooke Svoboda

FIRST IN 1902

Send your fishing, sports news and photos to news@islander.org.

Share the fun.

In 1902, Buffalo Forge heating company worker Willis Haviland Carrier was tasked with finding a solution to prevent humidity at a Brooklyn printing company. The humid air made the paper expand and contract, which caused illustrations to be printed out of alignment. Carrier developed a system that used pistons to pump air over chilled coils and fan it out into the factory, cooling and dehumidifying the space.

Participants in the cheerleading program at the center of anna maria island perform cheers at halftime during a flag football game.

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Fluctuating temps result in inconsistent bite on the water By capt. danny Stasny islander reporter

With temperatures fluctuating 40-80 degrees over a few days, Anna Maria Island anglers were trying everything in the book to find a consistent bite. Fishing nearshore and offshore in the Gulf of Mexico was as close to consistency as it got this past week, although getting access to the offshore waters remained tricky as Stasny strong winds and frequent cold fronts wreaked havoc for fishers in our area. On the other hand, fishing inshore in the backcountry was attainable on most days even when the wind was blowing — but the sacrifice was a limited bite from the sought-after species. Now we have some calmer days, and venturing to depths of 50-75 feet of water is proving good for a variety of species. Snapper, including lane and mangrove, are being caught, as well as the other usual suspects, such as porgies, Key West grunts and hogfish. Juvenile groupers, such as red and gags, are in the mix, depending on what structure you’re fishing. If those windier days return, and they will, fishing in the backcountry requires patience and plenty of fuel. Fishing around the right rocks and docks can yield black drum, as well as redfish and sheepshead. A lot of bait stealers, such as pinfish and baby sheepshead, are present in these areas. So make sure to carry an ample amount of shrimp for bait. And, with drastic temperature fluctuations, you might find the locations of fish change the daily. When its 50 degrees, they’re there, and then the next day when it’s 70 degrees, they’re gone. So pack some patience and a little determination on the wintery days. On my Just Reel charters, I’m bumping around the backcountry trying to keep a good bite going. Redfish are being caught around docks and seawalls. Casting live shrimp on a small knocker rig is working. But placement of baits is critical. If you don’t make it in the right spot, you’re not getting a look. Black drum and sheepshead are being caught in these areas, although fishing along the beaches is producing a more consistent bite. I’m finding plenty of whiting while fishing along the beaches, as well as a pompano here and there. Fishing the artificial reefs in the Gulf is proving productive for sheepshead, although the abundance of bait stealers — pinfish, tomtates and small lane snapper — is enough to drive you crazy. Also, spotted sea trout are being found in deep sports from Page 24

There was another three-team playoff during the Jan. 27 games, with the bye going to Hawks and Rod Bussey. Bob Heiger and Tom Anderton advanced to the final after defeating Steve Doyle and Gary Howcroft 22-7. The championship match was all Hawks and Bussey as they cruised to a 21-2 victory over Heiger and Anderton. Play gets underway at 9 a.m. Wednesdays and Saturdays at the Anna Maria pits. Warmups begin at 8:45 a.m., followed by random team selection. There is no charge to play and everyone is welcome.

ESTABLISHED 1995

Capt. Mike Greig 941-778-1404 www.fishannamaria.com

Bill mills, right, visiting anna maria island from flushing, michigan, poses Jan. 24 with capt. david White and a healthy male hogfish he caught on a live shrimp about 8 miles offshore.

sandy potholes in Tampa Bay Capt. David White is working nearshore structure on days when the winds are light and out of the east. In depths of 50-80 feet, White is finding good action for clients on mangrove snapper and hogfish. Both are being caught while bottom fishing with live shrimp as bait. Moving inshore, White has anglers targeting sheepshead around rocks and docks. In the same areas, White’s fishers are hooking into black drum and redfish. Again, live shrimp is the bait of choice. Capt. Johnny Mattay says nearshore fishing is good on the calmer days between cold fronts. Mangrove snapper, hogfish, porgies and grunts are being found around ledges and hard bottom. Mattay is using live shrimp and sand fleas as bait and both are working well. For rigging, hog balls or knocker rigs are working. In Tampa Bay and along the Gulf beaches, Mattay is finding action for his clients on black drum, redfish and sheepshead. All three species are responding to live shrimp as bait. Jim Malfese at the Rod & Reel Pier in Anna Maria reports variations in temperatures and wind make fishing at the pier sporadic, although determined anglers are hooking into a few different species. Black drum are on the pier menu for fishers using live shrimp as bait. They’re hooking into these drum while casting baits under the pier deck. Sheepshead are present under the pier, nibbling on barnacles and other crustaceans that take up residency

on the old wooden pilings. Lucky anglers are hooking into an occasional redfish, although consistent numbers of reds are lacking. Lastly, bouncing some shrimp-tipped jigs around the pier is advantageous for anglers in search of pompano. Send high-resolution photos and ﬁshing reports to ﬁsh@islander.org.

Six-year-old Benny Hertz shows off his catch — a quality sheepshead hooked Jan. 19 while inshore fishing with capt. david White of anna maria charters.

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Page 26 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Jan. 31, 2024 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Bird feed: Wildlife nonproﬁt collects ﬁsh from Cortez business

in the wild. Carpenter said the birds are slowly but effectively nursed to health. And she encouraged people to report sightings of distressed seabirds. She said a collaborative effort is essential in safeguarding our local wildlife. Education also is essential for Wildlife Inc., which will staff a donated table at the Florida Institute of Saltwater Heritage’s Cortez Commercial Fishing Festival, to inform people of their mission. The festival will be Saturday-Sunday, Feb. 17-18 in front of Starfish Co., 12306 46th Ave. W., and along the adjacent streets. The theme is “Commercial Fishing: It’s a way of life.” Bell, a FISH board member, said, “We do think the local nonprofits are really important to the community and so we try as an organization to support their efforts.” From Jan. 1-24, Wildlife Inc. took in more than 110 birds and in 2023 they set a record for rescues, taking in more than 3,000 animals.

By robert anderson islander reporter

A Bradenton Beach-based wildlife rescue center is rehabilitating juvenile birds impacted by recent cold snaps and getting a little help along the way. Wildlife Inc. Education & Rehabilitation Center of Bradenton Beach, founded by Gail and Ed Straight in 1987, is the county’s only licensed bird, mammal and reptile wildlife rehabilitation facility. Volunteer Krista Carpenter told The Islander Jan. 23 that the rescue took in a high number of birds suffering from cold exposure in January. Carpenter said juvenile piscivorous birds, which primarily feed on fish, can face starvation due to inexperience with colder weather. She said the rescue in January saw mainly juvenile brown pelicans and anhingas suffering cold-related starvation. Carpenter said cold temperatures can drive fish lower in the water column, making it difficult for inexperienced birds to feed. Consequently, the birds experience hunger and weakness, exacerbated by the cold temperatures. January’s cold temperatures left the rescue scrambling to feed extra mouths. One Cortez business owner, Karen Bell of A.P. Bell Fish Co., answered Wildlife Inc.’s call for help. Bell donated crates of thread herring and other baitfish to feed the birds in Wildlife Inc.’s care. “We love what Wildlife Rescue does,” Bell told The Islander during a Jan. 24 interview. “If I am in the office, I just give it to them. They are amazing. I have a lot of respect for Gail and Ed.” “We appreciate what they do because we are right here with the birds and we see the affects of winter on them,” Bell added. Carpenter said Bell’s donation was well received. She said a slow rehabilitation is vital for a bird’s recovery and that requires a steady supply of food. “The weather affects every animal and its release

About Wildlife Inc.

Founded in 1987, Wildlife Inc. is a rescue and rehabilitation center run by Gail and Ed Straight from their residence, 2207 Ave, B, Bradenton Beach. Wildlife Inc. is the largest rehabilitation and rescue center for wildlife in Manatee County, treating thousands of birds, mammals and reptiles since its founding. It is a nonprofit and is run by volunteers. To contact Wildlife Inc., call 941-778-6324 or go online to wildlifeinc.org.

Juvenile brown pelicans and a great egret undergo rehabilitation at Wildlife inc., 2207 ave. B, Bradenton Beach. islander Photo: courtesy Wildlife inc./ gail tedhams

and ultimately affects the rescue’s bottom line,” Carpenter said. At the rescue, the birds are nourished with a diet of purified amino acids, hydrolyzed proteins, stabilized vitamins and simple carbohydrates for energy. The rehab involves placing birds in storage tubs equipped with heating pads, keeping them indoors until they are stabilized and can walk. The birds then are fed baitfish, a staple of their diet

Visit islander.org for the best news.

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Compass is a licensed real estate broker. All material is intended for informational purposes only and is compiled from sources deemed reliable but is subject to errors, omissions, changes in price, condition, sale, or withdrawal without notice. No statement is made as to the accuracy of any description or measurements (including square footage). This is not intended to solicit property already listed. No ﬁnancial or legal advice provided. Equal Housing Opportunity. Photos may be virtually staged or digitally enhanced and may not reﬂect actual property conditions.

Jan. 31, 2024 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 27 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

By Lisa Neff

Rufﬂing feathers

A mockingbird favors a live oak visible through the window of my home office. So throughout the day, I can hear the mockingbird’s songs, including a spot-on imitation of a blue jay and another call that sounds like a frog. I’m not likely to see a Florida scrub-jay in my front yard. I used to see a pink flamingo neff through the window, but it was a plastic bird on a stick planted in the yard by a neighbor. The mockingbird is the official state of Florida bird but some lawmakers would like to see the designation awarded to the Florida scrub-jay or the American flamingo — not the plastic version. The Florida Department of State on its Florida facts webpage at dos.fl.gov celebrates the mockingbird — Mimus polyglottos — as a superb songbird and mimic that might sing all night long, especially in bright springtime moonlight. A resolution adopted in 1927 designated the mockingbird as Florida’s state bird. The bird also holds the honor in Arkansas, Mississippi, Tennessee and Texas. From one session to the next, lawmakers debate changing the state bird designation. I’ve heard people joke that lawmakers don’t like that the full common name for Mimus polyglottos which is “Northern mockingbird,” and I’ve heard others wisecrack that the state bird ought to be Cathartes aura — the turkey vulture. I know bird watchers and hikers who cherish seeing a scrub-jay and I know plenty of people who rushed to Tampa Bay parks and preserves last fall to glimpse the flamingos said to be displaced there by Hurricane Idalia.

aBoVe: the mockingbird is florida’s state bird by a resolution passed in 1927. islander Photo: courtesy u.S. fish and Wildlife Service. a bill before the florida Legislature seeks to name the scrub-jay — aphelocoma coerulescens — as the official state bird. islander Photo: courtesy fWc

a flamingo wades near fort deSoto Park in Pinellas county Sept. 4, 2023. islander file Photo: Jacob merrifield

What’s the argument for designating the scrub-jay as the state’s bird? The federally protected scrub-jay is the one bird species found exclusively in Florida and its population is threatened by habitat loss, according to state Sen. Tina Polsky, D-Boca Raton. She filed SB 162 last October for the 2024 session underway in Tallahassee. Polsky’s bill was introduced Jan. 9 and, as of Jan. 26, remained before the Senate Environmental and Natural Resources Committee. What’s the argument for designating the American flamingo as the state’s bird? The Islander’s publisher might say, “Because it’s PINK!” Phoenicopterus ruber was native to Florida and all but disappeared in the wild at the beginning of the 20th century, according to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. States Rep. Jim Mooney Jr., R-Islamorada, and Linda Chaney, R-St. Pete Beach, introduced House Bill 753 to honor the flamingo in December 2023. A first reading was Jan. 9 and, as of Jan. 26, the measure was before the House Agriculture, Conserva-

tion and Resiliency Subcommittee. A companion bill, SB 918, introduced Jan. 9 by Alexis Calatayud, R-Miami, passed the Senate Governmental Oversight and Accountability Committee 3-2 of Jan. 11 and, as of Jan. 26, was before the Fiscal Policy Committee. Neither bill contains a defense of the designation for the long-legged rubber-necked bird. On X, Calatayud described SB 918 as “lighthearted & pink-feathered, meant to make you smile.” I did smile when I read the Miami Herald editorial board’s endorsement, which called on the Legislature to give the flamingo its due. I’ve made no secret that I’m a Northerner who came to Florida less than 20 years ago. Growing up, the flamingo was the only bird I associated with Florida, probably because I regularly saw the species in the opening credits for “Miami Vice.” Perhaps the state suit can be Sonny Crockett’s Versace single-button jacket with shoulder pads and darted-front trousers.

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Sarasota Bay Watch says it’s almost time to “shellebrate.” The organization will hold its annual “Scallopalooza” gala to support hardshell clam restoration in Sarasota Bay at 5:45 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 24, at the Hyatt Regency Sarasota, 1000 Blvd. of the Arts, Sarasota. The nonprofit has deployed millions of clams in bay waters to filter and clean water, reducing the level of nutrients in Sarasota Bay. The SBW gala features a dinner, presentations, entertainment and auction. For details on tickets or SBW, go to sarasotabaywatch.org or call 941-2322363.

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Page 28 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Jan. 31, 2024 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

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

GARAGE SALES

HELP WANTED

GOLF GRIP/CLUB repair tools with toolbox. Added bonus box of grips. $75/offer 941704-4332.

COMMUNITY CLUBHOUSE SALE: 8 a.m.2 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Feb. 2-3. Furniture, beachy decor, home goods, etc. Twin Shores Beach & Marina, 3740 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key.

ADD THE SEA Swimwear in Holmes Beach seeks part-time retail associate. Flexible hours. Please, call 941-254-7938. or mn20@ sbcglobal.net.

WINE FRIDGE: 24 bottles (not working/ store wines only), $15. 940-920-2494. OLIVE OIL FROM my farm in Greece. Olive oil is from olive fruit, not from seeds. Wine bottle size (750ml), $19. Delivered to your AMI address. 203-942-8399.

Individuals may place one free ad with up to three items, each priced $100 or less, 15 words or less. FREE, one week, must be submitted online. Email classifieds@islander. org, fax toll-free 1-866-362-9821. (limited time offer)

ESTATE SALE: 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Friday, Feb. 2 and 9 a.m.-noon Saturday, Feb. 3. 266 Gladiolus St., Anna Maria. Beautyrest World Class mattress, chest and two night tables, server, white cabinets, lamps, wall unit, mirrors, two Adirondack chairs, bar chairs, 41 and 43-inch Samsung TVs, sound bar, nice coastal accessories, coastal paintings, patio set, three lounge chairs, lots of plant pots, yard tools, two bird baths, fountain, yard art, 75 bins of holiday decorations; Easter, Valentines, Christmas, Halloween, July 4th, Thanksgiving, St. Patrick’s and more, golf clubs, linens and kitchenware. Pix: www. estatesales.net. Sale by Julie McClure.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

TRANSPORTATION

BRIDGE PLAY AT Roser Hall: Noon on Fridays. Call 314-324-5921.

GOLF CART RENTALS: Fun for residents and tourists! 212-941-2402. www.GolfCartRentalAMI.com.

PANINNI MAKER: CUISINART, stainlesssteel, like new, $30, side tables, brown with glass top, 2/$15. 941-920-2494. FREEBIE ITEMS FOR SALE

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2009 CLUB CAR: Customized, street legal. $4,200. Call 813-685-5530. UNCLAIMED PROPERTY: 2006 Ford F150 blue, 1FTRX12W26FA44923. If interested claim on or before Feb. 9, 2024 at 6110 17th St. E., Bradenton, FL 34203. 941-301-1524. Subject to all liens. UNCLAIMED PROPERTY: 2010 Honda Motorcycle, gold. vin#1HFSC47G8AA905789. If interested claim on or before Feb. 9, 2024, at 6110 17th St. E., Bradenton, FL 34203. 941-301-1524. Subject to all liens. 2008 MOTORCYCLE: HONDA Gold Wing. Mint condition. 941-545-6118. 2018 E-Z-GO GOLFCART: All new Trojan batteries, alloy wheels, teal blue. undercarriage and dash lighting. Bluetooth marine speakers. Cover Included. $10,000. 941232-6042. BOATS & BOATING HAVE A BOAT and wanna catch more fish, better bait or learn the water? 50-year local fisherman, your boat, my knowledge. Captain Chris, 941-896-2915. SUNCOAST BOTTOM PAINTING: Professional bottom painting. Mobile. Call 941704-9382.

ANSWERS TO Jan. 31 PUZZLE

CAPTAIN FOR HIRE and boat caretaker services: If you need help with your boat on or off the water, call Captain Dan. USCG, retired. 772-486-8085. FUN AND FISH: Skiff rental. 24-foot Carolina skiff. Live bait and fishing equipment included upon request. Call 941-704-9382.

A/C SERVICE TECH: Seasoned, able to work well with others. Input is appreciated, hard work is rewarded, salary negotiable. 40-plus hour work week, paid holidays and vacations. West Coast Air Conditioning and Heating, Inc. 941-778-9622. A/C INSTALLER: CHANGE outs experienced. High work ethical standards a must. Year-round work, no layoffs, benefits. West Coast Air Conditioning and Heating, Inc. 941-778-9622. NOW HIRING HANDYMAN: Full-time professional services. $18 an hour and up, based on experience. Call JayPros, 941962-2874. REPORTER WANTED: Full- to part-time. Print media, newspaper experience required. Apply via email with letter of interest to news@islander.org. KIDS FOR HIRE KIDS FOR HIRE ads are FREE for up to three weeks for Island youths under 16 looking for work. Ads must be placed in person at The Islander office, 315 58th St. Suite J, Holmes Beach. HEALTH CARE SEASONAL: RETIRED RN with over 20 years’ experience can assist with your family members or yourself, can provide care and skilled needs. Please, contact me for further inquiries at 973-819-2824. SERVICES IS YOUR HOME or office in need of some cleaning? Well, I’m your girl! Local, reliable, professional! Please, give me a call or text, 941-773 -0461. CLEANING: VACATION, CONSTRUCTION, residential, commercial and windows. Licensed and insured. 941-756-4570. PRESSURE WASHING, PAVER sealing, driveway, roof, fence, pool area. Also, window cleaning. Licensed and insured. 941-5653931. BICYCLE REPAIRS: Just4Fun at 5358 Gulf Drive can do most any bicycle repair at a reasonable cost. Pick-up and delivery available. 941-896-7884. COMPANION/HOMEMAKER: Honest and reliable offering help with running errands, grocery shopping, house sitting, pet and plant care, light cooking/cleaning, transportation. References available and licensed. Call Sherri, 941-592-4969. API’S DRYWALL REPAIR: I look forward to servicing your drywall repair needs. Call 941524-8067 to schedule an appointment.

FREE ... The Islander newspaper is FREE at Publix Holmes Beach. Just stop by the customer

service desk, hold out your hand and say, “Islander, please!” And maybe remind staff you’d like the serveyourself community news returned to the lobby.

Jan. 31, 2024 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 29 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

I S L A N D E R C L A S S I F I E D S SERVICES Continued

HOME IMPROVEMENT Continued

REAL ESTATE

CLEAN TECH MOBILE Detailing. At your location. Cars, boats, RVs. Call or text Billie for an appointment. 941-592-3482.

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

WINNIE MCHALE, REALTOR, 941-5046146. Rosebay International Realty Inc. You need an aggressive and experienced Realtor in today’s market! Selling island homes, Sarasota and Bradenton areas. Multi-milliondollar producer! “Selling Homes - Making Dreams Come True.”

PC OR TECH issues? Not sure where to start? With years of experience, I’ll come to you with reliable solutions. Contact Gavin at 928-587-1309. www.gse.codes. PAINTING: INTERIOR/EXTERIOR: Sarasota interior painting. Call or text Don, 941-9009398. We are the best high-end painting! Just ask our AMI clients! I’m the owner and the painter. Free estimates. Fully insured licensed business. U PLUS ME LLC: Provides quality coatings for pool decks, driveways, garage floors, patios. Don’t miss out on our pro polishing services, concrete, terrazzo, travertine. 727623-5050. HANDYMAN: ISLAND BASED. Looking for small jobs the other guys turn down. Call 616-304-4187, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. PRIVATE CAREGIVER: DO You need help with groceries, doctors’ appointments, cleaning, care for pet, care for elderly or companion. I am looking for a part-time job. I have references and very experienced. I have integrity and I can help you and your loved ones with anything! Sparkles, 941-704-9948. BUSINESS-TO-BUSINESS JD’s Window Cleaning looking for storefront jobs in Holmes Beach. I make dirty windows sparkling clean. 941-920-3840. BEACH SERVICE air conditioning, heat, refrigeration. Commercial and residential service, repair and/or replacement. Serving Manatee County and the Island since 1987. For dependable, honest and personalized service, call Bill Eller, 941-720-7411. CAC184228. LAWN & GARDEN CONNIE’S LANDSCAPING INC. Residential and commercial. Full-service lawn maintenance, landscaping, cleanups, hauling and more! Insured. 941-778-5294. COLLINS LANDSCAPE LIGHTING: Outdoor lighting, landscaping, irrigation services and maintenance. 941-279-9947. MJC24373@ gmail.com. HOME IMPROVEMENT VAN-GO PAINTING residential/commercial, interior/exterior, pressure cleaning, wallpaper. Island references. Bill, 941-795-5100. www.vangopainting.net. GRIFFIN’S HOME IMPROVEMENTS Inc. Handyman, fine woodwork, countertops, cabinets and wood flooring. Insured and licensed. 941-722-8792. ISLAND HANDYMAN: I live here, work here, value your referral. Refinish, paint. Just ask. JayPros. Licensed/insured. References. Call Jay, 941-962-2874. SCREENING SERVICES: Replace your old or ripped window, door or porch screens. Many screen types available. Retired veteran here to serve our community! Free estimates, call Lane, 941-705-5293.

SOUTHWEST HOME IMPROVEMENT: Michigan builder, quality work guaranteed. Affordable, timely, within budget. Call Mike’s cell, 1-616-204-8822. BMF INTERIORS: HOME repairs and more, no job too small. 786-318-8585. CALL HYDRO CLEAN. Full-service pressure washing, sealing. Pavers, travertine and natural stone. Window washing too, up to three stories. Call Jacob, 941-920-2094. RENTALS ANNA MARIA GULF beachfront vacation rentals. One- two- and three-bedroom units, all beachfront. www.amiparadise.com. 941778-3143. PERICO ISLAND PATIO home for rent. 3BR/2BA, 30-day minimum. Privacy fence/ gate, two miles to AMI. January, 2024 available. Now leasing May through December, 2024. Call or text, 859-771-6423. AVAILABLE NOW AND season: 1BR/1BA, seven-night minimum. carlesvacationrentals. com. Special rates are available. 941-8071405.

WEST BRADENTON CONDO: resort lifestyle, ground-floor 2BR//2BA. Garage. 6.5 miles, 14 minutes from Gulf beaches. $264,900. Call or text, 941-7254374. LONGBOAT KEY MOBILE home lot. Corner lot across the street from park amenities. $125,000. 941-744-6808. PINES TRAILER PARK: 4 Church Ave. and Bridge Street, Bradenton Beach. Inspected, insured. $167,500. May be used as rental. 402-223-8068. WILDWOOD SPRINGS: 2BR/2BA turnkey furnished, updated. $329,000. Real Estate Mart, 941-356-1456.

Place classified ads online at islander.org Landscape Design Lawn Care Cleanups Stone Paths

RARE OPPORTUNITY TO rent all-inclusive executive office space in Holmes Beach. Great frontage and advertisement visibility. Great for realtors, contractors, accountants, lawyers, etc. Electric and water included. Two offices available. Suite 101, approximately 200 sf. $700/month $500 deposit. Suite 104, approximately 400 sf. $750/month. $500 deposit. 5386 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. Contact Bill at 941-746-8666. ACROSS FROM BAY, Two miles to Anna Maria. 2BR/1BA fully furnished. Available February and March. All utilities, washer/dryer. $3,900 month. Family owned. 941-7731552. SEASONAL: AVAILABLE MARCH-December. 2BR/2BA tastefully furnished, close to beach, tennis, pickleball and boat ramp. Holmes Beach. 941-778-2919. RETIRED COUPLE WISH to rent January through March 2025. One-three bedroom, close to Holmes or Bradenton Beach. 507456-3905. BOOK AHEAD: PERICO Bay Club. 2BR/2BA, one-car garage villa. Updated. Off-season May through December, $3,000/month. January 2025 available, $5,500. Real Estate Mart, 941-356-1456.

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Page 30 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Jan. 31, 2024 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

isl

biz

By robyn murrell

Trolley ads deliver boost

An Anna Maria Island Trolley ad campaign helped provide thousands of dollars to16 nonprofits Jan. 25. Nonprofit representatives received their grants during the Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce Business Card Exchange and annual Trolley Grants at Seafood Shack Marina, Bar & Grill, 4110 127th St., Cortez. The chamber, in partnership with Manatee County government, awarded $25,318 to nonprofit organizations. The total since the inception of the trolley grant program in 2014 exceeds $472,000. The 2024 grant recipients include: Anna Maria Elementary Parent-Teacher Organization, Anna Maria Island Art League, Anna Maria Island Garden Club, Anna Maria Island Privateers, Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring, Annie Silver Community Center, Artists’ Guild of Anna Maria Island, Cortez Village Historical Society, Friends of

Correction

A story on AMI Coffee Shack in the Jan. 24 issue contained incorrect information about hours of operation and the menu. The AMI Coffee Shack serves buildyour-own breakfast sandwiches. Hours are 7 a.m.-2 p.m. Monday-Saturday and 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Sunday.

MIKE NORMAN REALTY EST. 1978

For professional real estate sales, call a true island native, born and raised on Anna Maria Island. Marianne NormanEllis, sales associate. 941.778.6696 941.685.3393

Mike Norman Realty EXCLUSIVE

LUXURY

VACATION HOMES

recipients of the anna maria island chamber of commerce trolley grants gather for a photo after the awards ceremony Jan. 25 in the neptune room at the Seafood Shack marina, Bar & grill, 4110 127th St., cortez. islander Photo: robyn murrell

the Island Library, the Island Players, Kiwanis Club of Anna Maria Island, Roser Memorial Community Church, Rotary Club of Anna Maria Island, Center of Anna Maria Island, Wildlife Inc. and Friends of the Florida Maritime Museum. Chamber president Terri Kinder tearfully spoke to the crowd after the grants were handed out, asking all recipients to stand and be recognized. “We couldn’t give you everything you asked for but we can help, and we hope that means a great deal to you,” she said. Ana Juarez, a Friends of the Florida Maritime Museum board member, expressed gratitude after she and another board member, Karen Bell, received their

BizCal By robyn murrell this WeeK Thursday, Feb. 1 8-9:30 a.m. — Anna Maria island Chamber of Commerce sunrise breakfast, Blueberries Cafe & Wine, suite 300, 5337 Gulf drive, holmes Beach. Fee applies. information: info@annamariaislandchamber.org, 941-778-1541. sAVe the dAtes Feb. 8, 11:30 a.m., AMi Chamber luncheon, Freckled Fin irish Pub, 5337 Gulf drive, holmes Beach. Fee applies. Feb. 15, 5 p.m., Manatee Chamber of Commerce annual dinner and awards, Bradenton Area Convention Center, 1 haben Blvd., Palmetto. Send calendar listings to robyn@islander.org.

Business news Does your business

celebrate achievements? Maybe you’re new in business or your staff deserves kudos. Submit your information to news@islander.org.

Once Upon A Beach VACATION RENTALS - 941.584.5844

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organization’s grant. “We are so thankful to the trolley grant for providing these funds,” Juarez said. “Our mission is to collect, preserve and share traditional knowledge, cultural artifacts and personal stories specific to Florida fishing and maritime heritage.”

PropertyWatch By carol Bernard

Island real estate transactions

428 Spring Ave., Anna Maria, a 952 sq ft 2BR/1BA home on a 3,899 sq ft lot built in 1905 sold 12/6/2023 by Parks to Weaver for $1,150,000, list price $1,150,000. 216 Magnolia Ave.-A, Anna Maria, a 1,642 sq ft 2BR/1BA home on a 8,438 sq ft lot built in 1968 sold 12/8/2023 by CWALT Loan Trust to 216 Magnolia Ave LLC for $1,302,000, list price $1,485,000. 513 Villa Rosa Way, Anna Maria a 3,778 sq ft 4BR/6BA pool home on a 9,065 sq ft lot built in 2017 sold 12/6/2023 by Sebring Trust to Goldsmith for $6,439,000, list price $6,739,000. 7000 Gulf Drive, No. 214, Holmes Beach a 1,259 sq ft 2BR/2BA Tiffany Place condo built in 1978 sold 12/13/2023 by Soos Trust to Cornerstone Prop Tax Solutions LLC for $850,000, list price $899,000. 6700 Gulf Drive-B, Holmes Beach, a 920 sq ft 2BR/2BA pool home on a 3,990 sq ft lot built in 1970 sold 12/15/2023 by Welch to Dolgov for $895,000, list price $1,100,000. 312 61st St.-B, Holmes Beach a 1,707 sq ft 3BR/3BA pool home on a 4,546 sq ft lot built in 2006 sold 12/14/2023 by Larson to Bogarde for $1,550,000, list price $1,650,000. 507 70th St., Holmes Beach, a 1,652 sq ft 3BR/2BA pool home on a 10,032 sq ft lot built in 1967 sold 12/6/2023 by Wasbinder Trust to Horton for $1,775,000, list price $1,895,000. 610 Emerald Lane, Holmes Beach, a 1,969 sq ft 3BR/2BA pool home on a 10,934 sq ft lot built in 2003 sold 12/8/2023 by Alvard to Vasbinder for $1,800,000, list price $1,800,000. Compiled by Island Real Estate staff. IRE can be reached at 941-778-6066, islandreal.com.

T hinking about what

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Jan. 31, 2024 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 31 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

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Page 32 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Jan. 31, 2024 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................