The Islander Newspaper E-Edition: Wednesday, July 21, 2021 by The Anna Maria Islander Newspaper

VOLUME

JULY 21, 2021 FRee

NO. 39

the Best news on anna maria island Since 1992

islander.org

Astheworldterns. 6

Q&A 072121

Meetings. 4

mcat pushes in on Pine ave. planning. 5

Opinions. 6 10-20 YEARS AGO

looking back. 7

HB planners seek public perspective. 8

Save the date. 10

Coach makes rounds on AMI with Stanley Cup

Pirate plans. 11

no surprises here: the tampa Bay lightning won its second consecutive Stanley cup July 7 on the home ice in tampa. coach Jon cooper brought the cup to his home base, ami, July 10 for a trip to some restaurants and bars. left to right, Beach Bistro in Holmes Beach, where stately patrons dined with Stanley; the drift in in Bradenton Beach, where the bar went wild and maverick Johnson grabbed a selfie; and d.coy ducks tavern in Holmes Beach, where alexander Kuizon of Holmes Beach posed for a trophy photo before coach coop kicked off his ﬂip-ﬂops, climbed on the bar and poured beer for patrons from the cup. islander courtesy Photos

top notch rules. 11

Gathering. 12

Rogue signs, petition urge ‘do the right thing’

Obituaries. 12 GoodDeeds. 12 Back-to-school work begins. 13 HB eyes tax hike. 14 Bottom line inches up at community center. 15 Where’s tuna Street?

16-17

PropertyWatch. 18 Streetlife. 19 RoadWatch. 20 dead fish slurry waters, drift ashore. 21

NESTING NOTES. morning duty. 22

Building better habitats.

23 Summer sports. 24 clean water a must to succeed at fishing. 25 for blue crabs, it’s all about location. 26 cortez hosts off. 27

CLASSIFIEDS. 28

ISL BIZ NYT puzzle. 31

The signs and ad directed people online to preserveami.com, where an Anna Maria Signs popped up on Anna Maria beaches couple, Wendy and Robert B. Jordan IV — July 8 asking people to “Tell Mayor Dan to warn against the prospect of home construcdo the right thing!” tion on lots seaward of the existing line of A full-page ad in The Islander’s July 14 beachfront homes — including their resiissue urged people to “Tell our local officials dence on Elm Avenue in Anna Maria. to do the right thing!” The website also directs visitors to a By amy V.t. moriarty islander reporter

Karen Santora of littleton, colorado, ventured out on the anna maria city Pier where she snagged this photo of a heron and its catch in late June. Santora is the second winner of the islander’s 2021 top notch weekly photo contest. the photographer won an islander “more-than-amullet wrapper” t-shirt and entry into the finals, which offers a grand prize of $100 from the islander and gift certificates from islander advertisers.

Top Notch

Week 2: Eye to eye

petition at change.org, where the authors plead: “Tell Florida’s DEP secretary to do the right thing!” “The right thing” according to Wendy Jordan is for the Florida Department of Environmental Protection’s interim secretary Shawn Hamilton to rescind a recent ruling turn to petition, Page 2

Cracks spark evacuation

damage discovered on the exterior of a secondﬂoor balcony July 16 at fountainhead condos, 3400 Sixth ave., Holmes Beach, prompted an evacuation. more, page 4. islander Photo: courtesy HBPd

Award-Winning Surfside Dining Call For Reservations: (941) 778 - 6444

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owners of a home on the gulffront at 107 elm ave., among the string of homes looking south on the beach in anna maria, want city and state officials to prevent future construction seaward of their home. islander Photo: Jack elka

a sign at the elm avenue beach access directs people to a website and a petition opposing construction seaward of the dunes. islander Photo: amy V.t. moriarty petition continued from Page 1

that may impact the Jordans’ property.

Beachfront The Jordans purchased their home in April and soon learned Fedora Campbell owned the undeveloped lot seaward of their home and that Campbell allegedly possessed architectural plans for a home at the site. Wendy Jordan said she was shocked by the prospect of a home seaward of her beachfront home on Elm Avenue. Her residence was constructed by a previous owner in a wedge shape to conform to municipal setbacks and requirements to protect the dunes and sea oats at the Gulf-facing property. Jordan’s driveway is only feet from the end of the road, the right of way and the beach access.

Wendy Jordan wants to know how someone with property between hers and the Gulf would be allowed to build a structure? The seller of Jordan’s home had initiated a lawsuit against Campbell and the DEP before marketing the $4 million home, claiming the DEP should not have greenlighted Campbell’s building plan, which set a precedent that could lead to the overbuilding of beachfront property and destruction of dunes, sea oats and marine life habitats for turtles and shorebirds. A July 16 email to The Islander from DEP press secretary Alexandra Kuchta said, “The department will issue a final order in this case on or before July 22.”

family residence and associated structures seaward of the CCCL,” according to the court document. Campbell submitted prior an environmental impact study and a letter of no objection from the Anna Maria building department to the DEP prior the favorable ruling. Anna Maria Mayor Dan Murphy said the city’s issuance of the letter of no objection was pro forma — in accordance with state code. The letter did not indicate the city’s approval of a structure, Murphy said July 13. The letter was an early step that triggers a lengthy application process. Before Campbell can build on the property, she needs permits from the city, which Murphy said require The ruling her to detail access points for emergency vehicles and In a June 7 ruling, administrative law Judge Fran- utilities and the plan would need to be approved by cine Ffolkes found Campbell “entitled to a coastal city commissioners. PleaSe, See petition, Page construction control line permit to construct a single-

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July 21, 2021 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 3 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

petition continued from page 2

As of July 15, Campbell had not provided such a plan to the city and city officials had not received a copy of Ffolkes’ order, Murphy said. Jordan said she is not aware of the process for Campbell to obtain a city building permit. Instead, she maintains Hamilton should reverse the DEP approval, which would in turn cease the city building process. Meanwhile, Anna Maria resident Micheal Coleman, a business owner and partner in the development of the Pine Avenue restoration project, said he attended meetings several years ago when the city passed laws that made lots like Campbell’s unbuildable. But Coleman’s concern isn’t what’s behind the statement on the Preserve AMI signs, it’s that the signs were placed in the dunes Jordan aims to protect. Coleman saw Jordan’s signs July 11 and was incensed that people would think it OK to stake out signs in the dunes. “People who live here know you don’t do that,” Coleman said July 15. Code enforcement manager Debbie Haynes said the city learned Jordan had staked banners in the sand July 8 but removed them after receiving a warning. The banners were removed and one was affixed to Jordan’s house, which Haynes said resulted in another violation and a $250 fine. Jordan had been cited July 9 for violating city code regarding the size of the signs. She removed the banner and added “stick signs” that comply with code, but as of July 15 had not paid the fine which, if unpaid in 15 days, would be added to an August hearing for code violations. Commissioner complaint Meanwhile, Commissioner Deanie Sebring told The Islander she was surprised to learn her attempts to find out more about the issue were broadcast on social media as if she endorsed the petition. While at the beach during the Fourth of July weekend, Sebring noticed a plane trailing a banner with the preserveami.com website and wondered what it was

An online petition hosted by Wendy and Robert B. Jordan IV of Elm Street in Anna Maria urges government officials to “do the right thing.”

about, she told The Islander July 16. When Sebring visited the website and followed the link to the petition for more information, she said she was prompted to enter her information to gain access. Sebring said she did not sign the online petition or endorse it, but the site captured her information and posted to her social media profiles on her behalf, including on Next Door. By July 18, 846 people had signed the petition. What next? Jordan said she sent letters to Gov. Ron DeSantis and other officials seeking intervention and was scheduled to meet with Murphy July 21. But Murphy maintains the DEP decision is a single step in a journey toward final approval from the city. “It either fits into the existing building code or it doesn’t and that’s what we don’t know until we see the details,” Murphy said. Jordan claims she made a deal with Campbell to purchase the vacant lot for $2 million, but Campbell reneged before the closing. Campbell was not reached by The Islander for comment. Jordan said the signs in front of her home will stay until she sees results.

Q&A 072121

The Islander poll Last week’s question

Next to Independence Day, what’s your fave July observance? 50%. Christmas in July. 8%. National Hemp Month. 8%. National Cell Phone Courtesy Month. 35%. National Grilling Month. This week’s question

We hope you’re enjoying “Shark Week” How often have you seen sharks around AMI? A. All the time. B. From time to time. C. Rarely. D. Once. E. Never. To take the poll, go online to islander.org.

Capt. David White wrangles an 8-foot-long, 300pound bull shark to shore before its release. He caught the shark while night fishing in 2011 at the Rod & Reel Pier in Anna Maria. Islander File Photo

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HB closes 4plex, 2nd building cited for structural issues By ryan Paice islander reporter

The discovery of structural issues led to the evacuation of a fourplex at 3400 Sixth Ave., Holmes Beach. Building official Neal Schwartz told The Islander July 16 that the city closed the building and posted signs stating it was “unfit for habitation” after cracks on second-floor, exterior balconies were discovered. Schwartz said the issues were first reported around noon that day by an AC repair worker who heard cracking while working in the parking area under the building. “He went into the backyard … looked up and saw some separation of where the balcony is from the structure,” he said. Schwartz said he and three city building inspectors responded to the scene and reviewed the damage. They called West Manatee Fire Rescue fire marshal Rodney Kwiatkowski, who deemed the situation “life-threatening” and gained access to inspect the building — the same process used to enter a property where a balcony collapsed in late June. Schwartz and the building inspectors searched the four units at the property and found several cracks in the stucco and damaged wood around two second-floor balconies. “We looked at all four units and came to the same

a fourplex at 3400 Sixth ave., Holmes Beach, was evacuated by the city July 16 after structural issues were discovered, including cracks in stucco and wood damage. the structure is the southernmost of two buildings in the fountainHead condos that will undergo review for structural issues. islander Photo: ryan Paice

conclusion: we need to get a structural engineer out there ASAP to determine cause and effect and reach a conclusion on how it can be repaired,” Schwartz said. Eran Wasserman, the city’s director of development services, said staff explained the situation to the owners of each unit. “The owners and board — because I was talking

Out of this world? ray miller, right, a military veteran, says he travels the country with his service dog, asher, to document extraterrestrial activity and inform the public about aliens. His van, including large depictions of aliens, attracts people who swap stories, including myakka residents michael and angel mac July 13 at Palma Sola causeway Park. the macs said they saw strange lights in the sky in Bradenton on christmas day 2010. islander Photo: Kane Kaiman

Meetings

Anna Maria City July 22, 5:30 p.m., commission. July 29, 10 a.m., commission. Aug. 12, 2 p.m., commission. Aug. 16, noon, candidate qualifying opens. Aug. 26, 6 p.m., commission. Aug. 27, noon, candidate qualifying closes. Anna Maria City Hall, 10005 Gulf Drive, 941708-6130, cityofannamaria.com. Bradenton Beach July 21, 1 p.m., planning and zoning. Aug. 4, 9 a.m., CIP. Aug. 4, 9:30 a.m., CRA. Aug. 4, 2 p.m., ScenicWaves. Aug. 19, noon, commission. Aug. 23, noon, candidate qualifying opens. Aug. 27, noon, candidate qualifying closes. Bradenton Beach City Hall, 107 Gulf Drive N., 941-778-1005, cityofbradentonbeach.com.

to the president of the condo association — agreed to voluntarily leave the four units … and stay away from those units until we get a structural engineer report,” Schwartz added. The building is one of two identical neighboring fourplexes at 3402 Sixth Ave. in the FountainHead Condominium Owners Association. Schwartz said the condo association’s board agreed to have a structural engineer inspect the north building as well. “We looked at the north building and we didn’t see any visual problems. … But, since the engineer is there, it’s a good idea just to do an inspection of that,” he said. Wasserman said that while the buildings are identical, issues such as those found at 3400 Sixth Ave. are often the result of a lack of maintenance and repair work — not building flaws.

941-708-5800, holmesbeachﬂ.org. West Manatee Fire Rescue None announced. WMFR administration building, 701 63rd St. W., Bradenton, 941-761-1555, wmfr.org. Manatee County July 27, 8:30 a.m., commission. July 29, 9 a.m., commission (budget). Aug. 5, 9 a.m., commission (land use). Aug. 10, 9 a.m., commission. Aug. 11, 1 p.m., commission (work session). Aug. 17, 9 a.m., commission (budget). Aug. 19, 1 p.m., commission (land use). County administration building, 1112 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton, 941-748-4501, mymanatee. org. Also of interest Aug. 3, 4 p.m., Manatee County Council of Governments, Bradenton Area Convention Center, 1 Haben Blvd., Palmetto. Aug. 11, 2 p.m., Palma Sola Scenic Highway Corridor Management Entity, Bradenton Public Works, 1411 Ninth St. W., Bradenton. Aug. 16, 9 a.m., Manatee County Tourist Development Council, county administration building.

Holmes Beach July 21, 10 a.m., code enforcement. July 27, 5 p.m., commission. Aug. 4, 6 p.m., planning commission. Aug. 18, 10 a.m., code enforcement. Aug. 23, noon, candidate qualifying opens. — lisa neff Aug. 27, noon, candidate qualifying closes. Please, send meeting notices to calendar@ Holmes Beach City Hall, 5801 Marina Drive, islander.org and news@islander.org.

anna maria city commissioners Jonathan crane, left, and carol carter sit at the dais July 8. Both commissioners said they will seek reelection in november but doug copeland does not plan to run. islander Photo: amy V.P. moriarty

Election 2021

Thinking of local service? Qualifying for elected offices in the November general election will take place in August. Anna Maria’s qualifying dates are Aug. 16-27. Bradenton Beach’s and Holmes Beach’s qualifying dates are Aug. 23-27. Offices up for election include: • Anna Maria: Three commission seats for twoyear terms. Carol Carter, Jonathan Crane and Doug Copeland currently hold the seats. • Bradenton Beach: The mayoral post, currently held by John Chappie. Mayors serve two-year terms. Two commission seats for two-year terms. The seats are currently held by Jacob “Jake” Spooner and Janet E. Vosburgh. • Holmes Beach: Three city commission seats, currently held by Jim Kihm, Carol Soustek and Terry W. Schaefer. Commissioners serve two-year terms. For more information, go online to votemanatee. com.

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MCAT seeks consideration on Pine Avenue project By amy V.t. moriarty islander reporter

Data is being gathered. And a massive amount of data must be reviewed before traffic engineer Gerry Traverso can recommend options to improve safety and “operational flow” on Anna Maria’s Pine Avenue. Traverso, vice president of transportation engineering for George F. Young Inc., a St. Petersburg-based engineering and surveying company, is expected to present city commissioners with four to six options July 29 from the “Reimagining Pine Avenue” study. The $50,274 study is of Pine, Spring and Magnolia avenues and Gulf Drive and South Bay Boulevard between Pine and Magnolia. Before Traverso makes his recommendations, officials from Manatee County Area Transit want to meet with him, Susan Montgomery said during a July 14 phone call with The Islander. MCAT operates the fare-free trolley that travels between the Anna Maria City Pier at the island’s north end in Anna Maria and Coquina Beach in Bradenton Beach at the southern tip. In Anna Maria, the trolley runs on Pine Avenue and Gulf Drive. Montgomery is an MCAT transit planner, tasked with gathering and analyzing trolley data. She said the eight trolley stops — four in each direction — on Pine Avenue are the busiest among the route’s 38 southbound and 41 northbound stops. So what might be the impact of changing the trolley route? When Traverso first addressed Anna Maria commissioners in May, he mentioned an option to make Pine Avenue a one-way street, which would impact trolley operation. At two public input hearings July 1 and July 12, attendees raised concerns about a one-way Pine Avenue. Many of them reside on either Spring or Magnolia avenues, the two nearest parallel-running roads to the south of Pine Avenue. Residents’ concern is Pine Avenue is the only east-west road in the city that allows commercial traffic but as a one-way road, delivery vehicles would rely on Spring or Magnolia avenues. Both Spring and Magnolia are more than five feet narrower than Pine

Milestones

The Islander welcomes stories about islanders and island life, as well as photographs and notices of the milestones in readers’ lives — weddings, births, anniversaries, travels, obituaries and other events. Submit your announcements and photographs with captions for publication — along with contact information — to news@islander.org. Also, visit us on Facebook and join the 13,800-plus friends who “like” The Islander and share their social news.

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Get your storm supplies and your storm plan in order with The Islander’s Storm-Ready news throughout the season. For advertising requests, call or text 941-7787978.

an mcat fare-free trolley rolls between stops on Pine avenue July 15. there are four trolley stops on both sides of Pine avenue. islander Photo: amy V.t. moriarty

Avenue. MCAT also has a concern with the width of Spring and Magnolia avenues. Montgomery said the lanes are about 10 feet wide, the same width as the trolleys. And, Montgomery said, residents likely won’t appreciate a trolley making stops every 20 minutes, which is the frequency at which trolleys run 6 a.m.10:30 p.m. daily. As of July 14, Traverso had not met with MCAT representatives, Montgomery said. Meanwhile, a third public input session is scheduled for 6 p.m. Tuesday, July 20, at city hall, 10005 Gulf Drive. a detail from the islander’s ami map — in the For more information, call the clerk’s office at 941- center spread of this issue — shows anna maria’s 708-6130. Pine, Spring and magnolia avenues. the intersection of Pine avenue and Bay Boulevard at the anna maria city Pier is the northernmost hub for mcat’s island trolley. islander Photo: Jack elka

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Opinion

Our

It’s all about the view

And we’re not talking TV talk show. We’re talking water view. This week’s story about people who are objecting to homes that may (or may not) be built that would prospectively block or inhibit their view of the beach is not our first and likely not our last as high prices and high demand drive the desire to own a slice of AMI paradise. By way of disclosure, I was reluctant to stay in my bayfront home when the sunrise view of Perico across Anna Maria Sound went from nature to condos and the Waterline resort broke ground on three-story buildings a few houses away and up the canal about 100 yards to the north. We buy our homes with a hope and a prayer that nature will be kind and the surrounds will remain the same, be it neighbors with ground-floor homes, tall pine trees or the Gulf of Mexico or the bay waters. I’m sure many of us bought a home or condo for the view, regardless of the kitchen style or the size of the master bedroom. So losing the view — those can be fighting words. However, I feel the battle has been fought, litigated and legislated. This fight to keep people from building on the Gulffront — albeit seaward of the existing homes — is not new. In fact, the couple mounting the fight lives in a home that fought and won the same battle. The previous owner built the home they enjoy seaward of other homes because they were able to meet all the criteria to build a home on their property without variances for size or setbacks and without destruction of the dunes. So. It’s possible. But it’s only possible when the vacant property meets the criteria set forth in the Florida and the municipal building codes. And for those of you, like the Elm Avenue owners of a wedge-shaped house squeezed into the allowable footprint on a lot seaward of the other existing homes when it was built in about 2010, there are a lot of vacant lots up and down Anna Maria Island seaward of the existing homes. They’re not all buildable lots, but they exist. For Bradenton Beach and Holmes Beach, and a small area of Anna Maria — just north of Holmes Beach to maybe the Sandbar Restaurant — the beach was surveyed prior to the 1992 beach renourishment project and the state established a permanent erosion control line that will not change without an act of the state Legislature — and can not be built upon or calculated into buildable area for an adjoining property. Most of Anna Maria opted out. So who’s sorry now? — Bonner Joy, news@islander.org

JULY 21, 2021 • Vol. 29, No. 39 Publisher, Co-editor Bonner Joy, news@islander.org ▼ Editorial editor lisa neff, lisa@islander.org Joe Bird, editorial cartoonist Kevin cassidy, kevin@islander.org Jack elka, jack@jackelka.com Kane Kaiman, kane@islander.org Kelsey mako, kelsey@islander.org amy V.t. moriarty, amym@islander.org ryan Paice, ryan@islander.org ▼ Contributors Johann Bertram Karen riley-love capt. danny Stasny, fish@islander.org ▼ Advertising Director toni lyon, toni@islander.org ▼ Webmaster Wayne ansell ▼ Office Manager, lisa Williams info@, accounting@, classifieds@, subscriptions@islander.org ▼ Distribution urbane Bouchet ross roberts Judy loden Wasco (All others: news@islander.org) ▼

Single copies free. Quantities of five or more: 25 cents each. ©1992-2021 • Editorial, sales and production ofﬁces: 315 58th St., Suite J, Holmes Beach fl 34217 WeBSite: islander.org text or call: 941-778-7978

Your

Opinion

Campaigning in the dunes

To the individual(s) who defaced our beach pathway by installing signs in the dunes, fastening them to the nearest plant with zip ties and exhorting “Tell Mayor Dan to do the right thing,” Who and where do you think you are? Urging anyone to do the right thing while violating the sacred dunes and sea oats — which anyone who actually knows and understands our island knows is about as wrong a thing as you can do — demonstrates such a total unawareness of where you are and what it means to live here. You should just sell now, take your millions — we are not impressed by money here — and go away. I suggest Boca or Vegas. Mike Coleman, Anna Maria

Have your say

The Islander accepts original letters of up to 250 words and reserves the right to edit for grammar and length. Letters must include name, address and a contact phone number (for verification). Anonymous letters will not be printed. Please, email news@islander.org.

find the islander dating to november 1992 online at the uoff digital newspaper collection at ufdc.uﬂ. edu.

Skimming online …

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our theme, “We’re glad you’re Here,” originated in the 1980s with a restaurant trade group. We hope everyone feels welcome on ami. — the islander

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‘Shark Lady’ dr. eugenie clark, known as the “Shark lady” and the author of the book “the lady and the Shark,” takes a moment for the camera July 15, 1980, at mote marine laboratory. clark, a pioneering researcher who launched the marine laboratory in 1955, died in 2015.

10&20 years ago

In the July 19, 2001, issue

Share from your archives

Got old photographs of AMI? Write a recollection and share at news@ islander.org.

Read our archives Above AMI a gulfstream card co. postcard dated in the 1980s shows an aerial view of anna maria island, looking south toward longboat Key from the north end. islander Photos: manatee county Public library System

Take a trip back in time in our digital newspaper collection. There’s a complete library of The Islander online at ufdc.ufl.edu.

• Administrative Law Judge J. Lawrence Johnston ruled that the Florida Department of Community Affairs should enter a final order that Bradenton’s comp-plan amendment allowing the city to approve Arvida Corp.’s planned 898-unit condominium project on Perico Island was in compliance with state law and the city’s comp plan. • The Island Baptist Church congregation voted to allow the Island Middle School to rent the education center for the 2001-02 school year. The vote came days before the Manatee County School Board said the new school needed a location or its charter would be withdrawn. • Anna Maria Mayor Gary Deffenbaugh lodged a criminal complaint against a resident for impersonating a city official when he contacted a tree service to ask about some bills sent to the city.

In the July 20, 2011, issue

• Manatee County Sheriff’s Office investigators returned to the beach to search for the remains of islander Sabine Musil-Buehler, who was missing since November 2008 and presumed dead. • A new boardwalk, parking lot and trolley shelters opened on the north side of the Anna Maria City Pier. The construction project cost $857,700 and was funded with a Florida Department of Transportation grant. • Anna Maria officials sought appraisals for six lots at the corner of Pine Avenue and Bay Boulevard — now the location of City Pier Park. • Former islander Chris Perez represented the Cleveland Indians in the MLB All-Star Game played in Phoenix. — lisa neff

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HB planning commission seeks input on comp plan review By ryan Paice islander reporter

Free beer? Or maybe ice cream? Holmes Beach Planning Commissioner Gale Tedhams recommended July 14 that they offer beer or ice cream to attract people to take part in a fall workshop to discuss the board’s review of the city’s comprehensive plan. “I think that’s an important aspect of this kind of thing — creating a way to engage together and not just be silent,” Tedhams said. “How do we make this fun?” She suggested publicly noticing the meeting so board members could attend and interact with the public. Comp plans were initiated by the state in 1989 and determine community goals and aspirations regarding development, as well as guide future legislation. The city’s 110-page comp plan lists nine main elements, including future land use, transportation, housing and infrastructure. Planning commissioners have reviewed close to all of it over the past year. Ben Smith from LaRue Planning, a consulting firm

Remodel for retail alan Ward, chair of the roser church trustees, presents keys to margaret art, founder and manager of the roser thrift Store in the 500 block of Pine avenue in anna maria. the shop was closed due to ﬂooding, requiring remodel permits and inspections by the city. after a remodel, Ward presented the keys to art, though painting and furnishing remains to be done before the shop can reopen. the shop, operated by the roser guild, raises money for scholarships and charitable efforts. islander courtesy Photo

Place portrait photo here

the city hired in January 2020 to help revise the comp plan, proposed holding the workshop to inform the public and collect input. “We’re getting pretty close to wrapping this thing up,” Smith said. “We don’t have a lot more to go over before we bring back the whole thing to recommend before the city commission.” The board’s meetings are open to the public, but planning commissioners agreed to hold a fall workshop to encourage public involvement. Plans include setting up tables to display the comp plan’s nine main elements, as well as detail the planning commission’s recommended changes in each section. Smith said he and city staff would attend to provide assistance and gather input, then return to the planning commission with notes. First alternate member Lisa Pierce recommended LaRue also seek alternative input via surveys and online posts. Board members could not decide on a venue or date for the workshop, so they reached consensus to revisit the issue at their next meeting at 5 p.m. Wed. Aug. 4, at city hall, 5801 Marina Drive.

HB planners swear new member, elect officers

The Holmes Beach Planning Commission gained a member. City clerk Stacey Johnston swore in resident Lisa Pierce July 14 as the planning commission’s first alternate member — a move to fill a board vacancy left by the departure of Barbara Hines, who resigned earlier this year. The planning commission is an advisory board to the city commission focused on code revisions and proposals. The board consists of five full-time members and two alternates, who fill in during meetings for absent members. Pierce filled in for full-time member Richard Brown, who was absent July 14. After Pierce was sworn in elected officers and revised procedural rules. Commissioner Dana Krupa nominated Greg Kerchner to spend another year as chair. Without a competing nomination, Kerchner accepted the nomination and retained the post. Kerchner nominated Commissioner Jim McIntire to serve as vice chair. There were no other nominations, so McIntire accepted the nomination and became vice chair. Planning commissioners also agreed to change procedural rules, including: • Rescheduling monthly planning commission meeting from 6 p.m. to 5 p.m.; • Decreasing the number of consecutive meetings a planning commissioner can miss from four to three; • Changing a paragraph to state that planning commissioners “will” instead of “may” consider voting to request the city commission remove a board member for too many absences. — ryan Paice

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July 21, 2021 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 9 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

BB P&Z finalizes land use, zoning map recommendations By Kelsey mako islander reporter

Bradenton Beach planning and zoning board members finished reviewing and making recommendations June 16 for the city’s future land use and zoning maps. The P&Z is addressing inconsistencies between the zoning map, which shows how land is used now, and the FLUM, which shows how the city wants to use land in the future. The P&Z recommended June 16 that city commissioners: • Rezone from C-2 to C-3 the area at the Bradenton Beach Marina, 402 Church Ave N.; • Rezone from R-3 to public/semi-public where a cellphone tower and parking spaces are on Church Avenue; • Rezone from R-3 to R-2 and change the FLUM to medium-density residential in the area east of Bay Drive North; • Rezone from E-1 to public recreation the area along the beach across from First Street North; • Rezone from C-2 to R-3 the area bordering the Gulf and across from Bridge Street; • Rezone from C-2 to PSP the area across from Bridge Street and along Bay Drive South where four parking spaces are located. P&Z members also voted to remove the land use and zoning designations along Bay Drive South from Fifth Street South to Third Street South. The decision came after concerns were expressed by Old Bridge Village by building official Steve Gilbert over private property being zoned public recreation. The area is a city right of way with easements for docks.

Planning and zoning board member John Burns questions amendments proposed to the zoning map by city staff while members fred Bartizal, left, and Ken mcdonough, right, listen during a June 16 meeting. islander Photo: Kelsey mako

Gilbert said there is a disconnect between stormwater management and permeable pavers in the land development code. New technology allows permeable pavers to retain more stormwater. However, the LDC does not allow a percentage or credit for permeable surfaces. According to Burns, the definition of lot coverage in the LDC is the portion of the lot covered by building structures and other impervious surfaces. The city’s lot coverage allowance is 35% and 5% more for other impervious surfaces. Burns said the definition of lot coverage needs to be changed or the city needs to provide a credit for permeable coverage beyond the 40% lot coverage allowance. P&Z members discussed possibilities for lot coverage materials, as well as stormwater retention systems. In other matters … P&Z members will come back to the discussion at P&Z member John Burns started a discussion on the next P&Z meeting at 1 p.m. Wednesday, July 21, lot coverage as it relates to permeable surfaces. at city hall, 107 Gulf Drive N.

Planning guide

In Bradenton Beach, Residential-1 allows for a single-family dwelling. R-2 allows for two-family dwellings. R-3 allows for multiple-family dwellings. C-1 allows for limited commercial development. C-2 allows for general commercial development. C-3 allows for water dependent commercial development. E-1 is reserved for preservation. A low-density residential designation on the FLUM allows R-1 zoning, medium-density for R-1 and R-2 zoning and high-density for R-1, R-3 zoning, as well as mobile home parks and a planned development overlay. — Kelsey mako

Milestones

The Islander welcomes photographs and notices of milestones. Submit announcements and photographs to news@islander.org.

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Page 10 THE ISLANDER | islander.org July 21, 2021 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

The Islander Calendar ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Island Players set auditions

ON AMI Saturday, July 24 6-10 p.m. — Anna Maria Island Privateers Christmas in July party, buffet and fundraiser, Drift In lounge, 120 Bridge St., Bradenton Beach. Information: 941-779-6033. ONGOING ON AMI Throughout July and August, “Live Colorfully” membership exhibit, Island Gallery West, 5368 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6648.

Janet flickinger’s “fishing at rod and reel Pier” is featured in the members’ exhibit at island galAug. 1, Island Player auditions for “The Savannah Sipping lery West, 5368 gulf drive, Holmes Beach. for more information, call the gallery at 941-778-6648. Society,” Anna Maria. Aug. 5-8, Anna Maria Island Privateers “Return to Tortuga: A islander courtesy Photo Pirate Invasion Weekend,” Anna Maria Island/Perico Island. Sept. 16-26, Island Players’ performance of “The Savannah Sipping Society,” Anna Maria. Oct. 15, Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce Bayfest kickoff, Anna Maria. Oct. 16, Bayfest, Anna Maria. AHEAD ON AMI

ONGOING OFF AMI Through Sept. 26, “Skyway 20/21: A Contemporary Collaboration,” John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, 5401 Bay Shore Road, Sarasota. Fee applies. Information: 941-359-5700. Through Sept. 26, Marie Selby Botanical Gardens’ “We Dream A World, African American Landscape Painters of Mid-Century Florida, The Highwaymen,” 1534 Mound St., Sarasota. Fee applies. Information: 941-366-5731. Second and fourth Saturdays, 2-4 p.m., Soupy and his Band, Florida Maritime Museum outdoors, 4415 119th St. W., Cortez. Information: cvhs2016@aol.com. AHEAD OFF AMI

compiled by lisa neff, email calendar@islander.org.

H o w ’s y o u r ‘Y’all” and your drawl? The Island Players will hold auditions in August for the first play of the 2021-22 season — and the first onstage production since the pandemic set in last spring and canceled the 72nd season of plays. The opening play will be “The Savannah Sipping Society,” described as a delightful production about four Southern women “all needing to escape the sameness of their day-to-day routines, are drawn together by fate and an impromptu happy hour.” The play, by Jessie Jones, Nicholas Hope and Jamie Wooten — collectively known as Jones/ Hope/Wooten — will run Sept. 16-26. Director Mike Lusk will hold auditions at 7:30 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 1, at the theater to cast four female actors. Meanwhile, the theater group is coordinating with the Center of Anna Maria Island to host a children’s drama camp through Friday, July 23, with public performances set on the final day at 1 p.m. and 7 p.m. The theater is at 10009 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria. For more information, call the box office at 941-778-5755. tion: 941-778-6341. ONGOING ON AMI

Collage course offered online

Nov. 13, Anna Maria Island Privateers Black Tie Fundraising a collage by marie garafano, who will lead a twoGala to beneﬁt the Early Learning Coalition of Manatee County, part online class on the elements of collage for a Bradenton. program offered by the artists’ guild of anna maria island. classes will be 3-5 p.m. monday, July 26, KIDS & FAMILY and monday, aug. 2. for fee info or to enroll, call the ON AMI guild gallery at 941-778-6694 or go to amiartistsguildgallery.com. islander courtesy Photo Thursday, July 22 2 p.m. — Clay crafting, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Registration: mymanatee.org/library. Information: Back-to-School-Night with the Bradenton Marauders, Bradenton. 941-778-6341. CLUBS & Tuesday, July 27 COMMUNITY 10 a.m. — Family story time, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Registration: mymanatee.org/library. Information: ON AMI 941-778-6341. Wednesday, July 21 AHEAD OFF AMI 6 p.m. — Scanning instruction, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Registration: mymanatee.org/library. InformaJuly 31, Anna Maria Island Privateers scholarship awards at

Saturdays, Aug. 14 and Aug. 28, 8:30 a.m., Kiwanis Club of Anna Maria Island breakfast and meeting, Gulf Drive Cafe, 900 Gulf Drive N., Bradenton Beach. Information: 941-778-1383. Tuesdays, noon, Rotary Club of Anna Maria Island lunch meeting, in-person at Bridge Street Bistro, 111 Gulf Drive S., Bradenton Beach, and via Zoom. Information: 941-920-2505. AHEAD ON AMI July 29, Island Library Seaside Quilters, Holmes Beach. July 29, Island Library Sunshine Stitchers, Holmes Beach.

OUTDOORS & SPORTS ONGOING OFF AMI Through the summer, Bradenton Marauders baseball, LECOM Park, 1611 Ninth St. W., Bradenton. Fee applies. Information: 941747-3031, bradentonmarauders.com.

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Top Notch

Back-to-school and baseball the anna maria island Privateers plan to honor their 2021 scholars during “Back-to-School night” at lecom Park, when the Bradenton marauders will take on the dunedin Blue Jays in a minor league game. the game will be at 6:05 p.m. Saturday, July 31, but festivities will take place before the first pitch. lecom Park is at 1611 ninth St. W., Bradenton. ticket prices are $15 and include a baseball cap and a beverage coupon. for more information, contact Kim “Syren” Boyd at 931-639-0986 or go online to amiprivateers.org.

Anna Maria Island Privateers offer BOGO on gala tickets The gala is “black tie” but black eye patches also are appropriate. The Anna Maria Island Privateers are selling tickets to the 50th anniversary Black Tie Gala, set to take place Saturday, Nov. 13, at IMG Academy Gulf Club, 4350 El Conquistador Parkway, Bradenton. The evening will include an opportunity to meet past scholarship recipients, including Fox 12 news reporter Kimberly Kuizon, who grew up on Anna Maria Island and will serve as the gala emcee. The gala also will feature high school students performing as a quintet, a disc jockey, dancing, dinner,

drinks and auctions of goods and services, including “sportscaster of the day” on a talk radio station. Tickets — $150 each with a buy one, get one offer through Sept. 30 — can be purchased at amiprivateers. org, with a portion of the money raised benefiting the Early Learning Coalition of Manatee County. Sponsorships also are available by contacting Privateer Kelly “Mullan” Sparkman at flowergirlkelly@ yahoo.com.

Summer brings Christmas in July cheer with pirates …

Ho, ho, it’s hot. The Anna Maria Island Privateers will celebrate Christmas in July with Santa Claus and supper. The nonprofit dedicated to “kids and community” will host its annual Christmas in July celebration 6-10 p.m. Saturday, July 24, at the Drift In lounge, 120 Bridge St., Bradenton Beach. Santa will put in an appearance, but the time is uncertain — “he’s still on island vacation time.” Plans include a raffle for a liquor basket, a lotto and “taste of the island food buffet.” The meal cost will be $10. Partygoers can contact Privateer John “Lil John Arr” Rutherford if they want to bring a dish for the

Get listed

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

buffet. He’s at 941-779-6033 and johnrutherford25@ yahoo.com. For more information, call the bar at 941-7789088.

August brings an invasion

The Privateers plan the “Return to Tortuga: A Pirate Invasion Weekend” Aug. 5-8, featuring a kickoff party, scavenger hunt, pirate gathering and pub crawl. The pirates headquarters will be the Compass Hotel by Margaritaville on Perico Island. The weekend package is $225. For more information, contact Kim “Syren” Boyd at 931-639-0986 or go online to amiprivateers.org.

Submit your social news, weddings, anniversaries, births, travel photos and event news and photos to news@islander.org.

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Stars and stripes salute: Penny frick was a top notch contest winner in 2009.

Enter The Islander’s Top Notch photo contest The Islander’s Top Notch contest is underway. The contest celebrates what still is known as the “Kodak moment,” despite Kodak’s downfall in the switch from film to digital technology. Look to noon this Friday for the next deadline. The contest includes six weekly front-page winners. Each will claim an Islander “More than a mullet wrapper” T-shirt. One weekly shot will take the grand prize in the contest, earning the photographer a cash prize from The Islander and certificates from local merchants. A pet photo winner will be announced in the final week. Please, note, each original JPG must be included in a single email with the name of the photographer; date the photo was taken; location and description; names of recognizable people; and the address and phone number of the photographer. More rules are online at www.islander.org. — Bonner Joy

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Page 12 THE ISLANDER | islander.org July 21, 2021 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Tidings worship calendar

Gathering

Saturdays 4 p.m. — St. Bernard Catholic Church. Monday-Friday Sundays 8:30 a.m. — St. Bernard Catholic Church, 248 S. Harbor Drive, 8 a.m. — Episcopal Church of the Annunciation. Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-4769. 8:30 a.m. — St. Bernard Catholic Church. Thursdays 8:30 a.m. — Roser Memorial Community Church, 512 Pine 9:30 a.m. — Episcopal Church of the Annunciation, 4408 Gulf Ave., Anna Maria. Information: 941-778-0414. Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-1638. 9 a.m. — CrossPointe Fellowship, 8605 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-0719. 9:15 a.m. — Harvey Memorial Community Church, 300 Church Ave., Bradenton Beach. Information: 941-779-1912. 9:45 a.m. — Episcopal Church of the Annunciation. 9:30 a.m. — Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, 6608 Marina Drive. Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-1813. 10 a.m. — Roser Church. 10 a.m. — Christ Church of Longboat Key Presbyterian USA, 6400 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key. Information: 941-9004903. 10 a.m. — Longboat Island Chapel, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key. Information: 941-383-6491. 10:30 a.m. — St. Bernard. REGULAR WORSHIP

SAVE THE DATES

Fair.

Church calls to crafters

Dr. Jay William Erickson

Jay William Erickson, Ph.D., 86, of Holmes Beach, died June 27. He was born Aug. 6, 1934, in Fredonia (Pomfret), New York, to Oscar Eric and Fay Isabel (Miller). He graduated from the State University of New York at Fredonia with a bachelor of science and education in 1959 and received a master’s in scierickson ence education in 1960 and a doctorate in science and education in 1963 from Columbia University. He met his wife, Terry, at SUNY Fredonia and together they celebrated 62 years of marriage, sharing adventures and their devotion to family. Dr. Erickson was an associate professor of natural sciences and a professor of organic and biochemistry at Teacher’s College, Columbia University in the early 1960s. He then joined the Columbia team as a professor of science education (chemistry/physics) at Kabul University in Afghanistan 1966-71, where he became fluent in Farsi. From 1972-76, he was professor of education and programs director at the University of Lagos, Nigeria. He is remembered by students as being both challenging and supportive. In 1976, he and his wife moved to Anna Maria Island, where he became a sales agent for Beckett Realty and an independent property manager. Throughout his life, he was an avid walker, hiker and traveler. He walked the beaches and sidewalks of Anna Maria Island daily — wearing his African hat —

and did most of his errands by bicycle. During the summers between 1987 and 1994, he hiked the Appalachian Trail, where he was known as the “Red Baron.” He completed the trail on his 60th birthday. The “Red Baron” nickname came from his passion for flying his Piper Cherokee. He helped his daughters with Girl Scouts and sons with Boy Scouts, making sure to instill a love of the outdoors. He traveled the world with Terry, taking camping trips, many international vacations and family cruises. A favorite quote of his is from J.R. Tolkien: “Not all who wander are lost.” His love of people and his great sense of humor were known by family, friends and everyone he met, as he never met a stranger. He was vibrant, brilliant, jovial and young-atheart. Those wishing to honor him, can make an online donation to the Alzheimer’s Society Florida Gulf Coast Chapter at www.alz.org/flgulfcoast A celebration of life will be planned at a later date. Dr. Erickson is survived by his daughters, Dawn and husband James, and Deborah Pate and husband David; son Jay II and wife Jennifer; sister Mary Lou Bell and husband Gordon; and eight grandchildren.

About obituaries

Obituaries are offered as a community service to residents and families of residents, both past and present, as well as to those people with ties to the island. You may submit a standard obituary and photo to news@islander.org. Obituaries are free.

SUNDAY WORSHIP • 8:30 AM or 10:00 AM

COMMUNITY CHURCH IN PERSON in the Sanctuary Nursery • Children’s Church ONLINE • Watch LIVE or LATER www.RoserChurch.com Text ROSER to 22828 to receive the weekly eBulletin The CHAPEL is open during office hours for prayer & meditation

Essential

for The Islander. We welcome news from local places of worship, as well as their photographs and calendar listings.

GoodDeeds

Assistance sought on AMI

• Moonracer Animal Rescue seeks volunteers to offer foster and forever homes for rescued animals. Information: 941-345-2441. • The Roser Food Bank seeks donations. Roser Memorial Community Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, administers the pantry, supported by All Island Denominations. Information: 941-778-0414. • The Manatee County Parks and Natural Resources Department seeks “self-guided volunteers” to clean trails and beaches, take photos and other tasks. Info: michelle.leahy@mymanatee.org or 941-742-5923.

Assistance offered on AMI

• The Roser Food Bank welcomes applicants who live and/or work on Anna Maria Island for food assistance, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Information: 941-778-0414. • AID offers help to those who live on the island, go to church on the island, attend school on the island and work on the island. Information: 941-725-2433. — lisa neff

If your organization is offering services to islanders or seeking island volunteers, please send listings to Lisa Neff at calendar@islander.org.

Milestones

The Islander welcomes photographs and notices of milestones. Submit announcements and photographs to news@islander.org.

Growing in Jesus’ Name

STEWARDSHIP

TIMELESS WISDOM ON WEALTH

Worship With Us at Our Church Sunday Service 10:00 AM The Rev. Dr. Norman Pritchard Masks Are Optional Visitors & Residents Welcome Watch Our 10:00 AM Service Live:

DISCIPLINES

941-778-0414 • 512 Pine Ave, Anna Maria • FOLLOW us on Facebook @RoserChurch

Please, send notices to calendar@islander.org.

Gathering Gathering is the religion page

dorothy Pon offers arts and crafts for sale in a booth at a 2019 holiday craft fair at roser memorial community church. roser, 512 Pine ave., anna maria, will host the 2021 holiday fair 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday, nov. 6. in preparation, organizers are booking craft tables at a cost of $20. additionally, organizers seek bakers and volunteers to help on sale day. for more information, call the church office at 941-778-0414 or go online to roserchurch.com.

Obituary

Sept. 6-7, Rosh Hashanah. Sept. 13, Yom Kippur. Nov. 6, Roser Memorial Community Church Holiday Craft

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

PTO sets out plans, activities for new school year By Kelsey mako islander reporter

The first “assembly” of the new school year took place in July. Parent-teacher organization board members and Anna Maria Elementary School staff members met July 13 to discuss the 2021-22 school year that begins Aug. 10. Planning included the return of many of the PTO events enjoyed before the coronavirus pandemic, PTO president Nicole Plummer told The Islander July 15. The PTO will host an in-person “Back-to-School Night” Thursday, Aug. 5, so students and families can visit classrooms, meet teachers and drop off supplies. Kindergarten, first- and second-grade groups will visit 4:30-5:15 p.m. and student groups in higher grades will visit 5:15-6 p.m. Other returning PTO events include dinners before grade-level plays, a fall festival and a Dolphin Dance, formerly known as the Princess Ball. The PTO also will host a “New Family Meet and Greet” at 8:40 a.m. Tuesday, Aug. 10, in AME’s auditorium, providing adults an opportunity to meet other parents and caregivers. The event will include presentations from AME’s new principal, Mike Masiello, as well as from other AME staff and PTO board members. “We hope by offering this event, families will feel comfortable on campus and be able to put a face to a name when communicating with these staff members throughout the school year,” Plummer said. Dates also were set for PTO board and general membership meetings for the new year. Board meetings will be in AME’s conference room and general membership meetings, held quarterly, will be in the school cafeteria. All meetings will be after school at 3:30 p.m. The first AME-PTO board meeting will be Monday,

AME Calendar 2021-22 school year

July 31-Aug. 9, sales tax holiday. Aug. 3, teachers return. Aug. 5, back-to-school night. Aug. 10, ﬁrst day of classes for students. Sept. 6, Labor Day, no school. Oct. 7, end of quarter. Oct. 8, record day, no school. Nov. 11, Veterans Day, no school. Nov. 22-26, Thanksgiving break. Dec. 21, end of semester. Dec. 22-31, winter break. Anna Maria Elementary School is at 4700 Gulf Drive N., Holmes Beach. For more information, call 941-708-5525.

ame-Pto president nicole Plummer, front, takes a selfie July 13 with school resource officer Josh fleischer, left, and, clockwise, teacher representative Kelly crawford, Pto secretary Kari Kennedy, principal mike masiello, and teacher representative gary Wooten at a planning meeting at ame. islander Anna Maria Elementary PTO officers for the 2021Photo: courtesy Pto/nicole Plummer 22 school year took their oaths of office in May.

PTO officers for 2021-22 year

Aug. 16. The first membership meeting will be Monday, Sept. 13. For more information about the PTO, go online to www.amepto.org or call Plummer at 941-708-5525.

The officers include: • Nicole Plummer, president; • Alana Fleisher, vice president; • Brook Morrison, co-treasurer; • Jen Serra, co-treasurer; • Kari Kennedy secretary.

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HB workshops 2021-22, tentative tax hike for $20.6M budget By ryan Paice islander reporter

The largest municipal budget on Anna Maria Island is set to get even bigger. The Holmes Beach City Commission met July 13 to workshop a staff-proposed $20,684,927 budget — $2,805,656 larger than this year’s — for the city’s 2021-22 fiscal year, which begins Oct. 1. City treasurer Lori Hill presented the proposed budget to commissioners and said it is similar to the current budget but with small increases across the board. The city’s 2021-22 coffers are projected to grow primarily due to $750,000 in state appropriations for stormwater drainage, $400,000 in additional building permit sales due to increased construction and a $35,410 increase in collections from state gas taxes. Another large contributor is a projected $286,679 boost in ad valorem tax revenue if the city adopts the staff-recommended 2.25 millage rate. Millage is the number of dollars taxed per $1,000 of property value. So, at 2.25 mills, a property owner would pay $1,125 in ad valorem taxes for a $500,000 property. Keeping the millage rate at 2.25 is a tax increase for city property owners who have seen a $152,409,605 increase in total values over last year. At the 2.1178 rollback rate — the rate at which

budget talks Comparing

by the numbers… 2020-21 budget

total expenditures/revenues: operating revenue: carryovers/reserves: Personnel expenditures: operating expenses: capital outlay expenditures: unassigned/unrestricted funds: total taxable property value:

$17,879,270 $9,386,597 $8,492,673 $5,443,698 $3,614,490 $1,898,262 $6,773,819 $2,198,919,831

the city would collect the same amount of ad valorem revenue as this year — the owner of a $500,000 property would pay $1,058.90 in ad valorem taxes. With a two-third commission vote, the city also could instate a 2.4328 maximum allowed millage rate. The owner of a $500,000 property would pay $1,216.40 in ad valorem taxes at the max rate. Commissioners July 15 and unanimously voted to set a 2.25 max millage rate for the new year. Commissioners expressed a desire to lower taxes but Hill said doing so would jeopardize around $1.8 million the city is slated to receive from the federal American Rescue Plan Act. The act shelled out $350 billion in relief for state

State OKs Longboat Key wastewater projects By lisa neff islander editor

Plans to improve Longboat Key’s wastewater collection got a lift from the state. The Florida Department of Environmental Protection ordered the town to pay cash penalties or invest in environmental projects, part of the state’s penalties for a June 2020 sewage line break that polluted Sarasota Bay and resulted in destruction to a mainland mangrove forest. An investigation determined long-term corrosion contributed to the break in the town’s only pipeline, which runs from the key across the bottom of Sarasota Bay to end at a county treatment facility on the mainland. The town, to reach and stop the leak on property owned by the Long Bar Pointe LLLP development, built a makeshift road, destroying and damaging mangroves. In a negotiated consent order with the DEP, the town agreed to developing long-term and short-term

plans to ensure the safe transmission of wastewater and to restore mangroves at the spill site. The town also agreed to pay a settlement or take on in-kind projects. In late June, the DEP accepted the town’s plan to install a flow meter and three bypass pumps at lift stations on Longboat Key. The flow meter cost is about $22,000 and each bypass pump is about $56,300. DEP earlier accepted the town’s proposal to replace a reserve generator at a master lift station for about $100,000. “The proposed project provides a benefit to the environment and qualifies as an in-kind project in lieu of making cash penalties,” Kelley M. Boatwright wrote June 25 to Longboat Key town manager Tom Harmer. Boatwright is DEP’s southwest district director. The town must complete the projects in 180 days. Longboat Key also is in the process of replacing the 1973 pipeline, a project estimated to cost $21.8 million.

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and local governments but prohibits taxing authorities that received relief from using the money to “directly or indirectly offset a reduction in net tax revenue.” So, if the city adopted a millage rate lower than the rollback rate, it would risk losing ARPA funding, Hill said. The city’s expenses also are slated to rise, spearheaded by almost $1 million in budgeted stormwater utility projects and a $754,173 increase in personnel costs. A chunk of the rising personnel costs can be attributed to the police department, which projects a $265,863 increase in 2021-22 at least in part to hire an additional office staff member and an officer to succeed Officer Jordan Sullivan, who recently resigned. Commissioner Jayne Christenson told The Islander July 15 that she believes the city shouldn’t have to increase the HBPD budget. She said a portion of what the city’s police force does — monitoring the roads of a major tourist destination and policing Manatee Public Beach — should be funded by Manatee County. The city received $46,000 this year from the county to patrol the public beach and the Kingfish Boat Ramp, which are both maintained by the county. Hill wrote in a July 16 email to The Islander that the city “budgeted the same this year, but I am not sure if anything changed.” Christenson also asked commissioners to consider budgeting to purchase laptops for commissioners to perform their municipal work. Commissioner Carol Soustek suggested they also purchase a new set of chairs for themselves at the dais since theirs are uncomfortable. Commissioners reached consensus to approve both suggestions, as well as agreed to update the sound system for the commission chambers. Hill said she would contact the city’s office supply source and return to the commission with cost estimates. City commissioners will hold public hearings at 5 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 16, and Tuesday, Sept. 18, at city hall, 5801 Marina Drive, and vote on a final budget ordinance.

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campers apply paint to their hands July 13 before using their hands to decorate benches at the anna maria island Historical Society.

center campers pull arrows from targets during archery practice July 16 at the center of anna maria island.

Center reverses almost yearlong financial spiral

anna maria commissioner deanie Sebring reads to center summer campers July 15, part of the SunBy ryan Paice However, the community center’s $194,823.10 in coast campaign for grade-level reading. Sebring islander reporter fundraising revenue in May dwarfs all previous num- read “Welcome to anna maria island” and her own The Center of Anna Maria Island’s financial for- bers for the year — it is more than twice the amount children’s book, “Skip and deanie’s flying Bike trip.” islander Photos: courtesy cofami tunes are inching up just in time to wind down fiscal raised in December.

year 2020-21 in the black. The community center finished $26,290 in the black through May, according to financial documents from the nonprofit. The number marks an $80,588 improvement over April, when it fell to $54,298.34 in the red. It also marks the first time the nonprofit has registered a month in the black for the fiscal year. The center recorded its largest cumulative deficit of the year in October — $118,421.30 in the red. The center has struggled to lower the deficit until April, when it cut the figure from $95,711.43 to $54,298.34. The turnaround can be contributed almost solely to fundraising in April and May, when the center put on a second donation challenge that raised over $100,000 and began selling tickets for the Bradenton Gulf Island Concert Series. The nonprofit recorded $80,485.52 in fundraising revenue in April, the second-largest fundraising figure recorded at that point in the year — only behind $85,577.73 in December 2020, when the center sponsored a community fundraising challenge.

The number is a significant boost for the nonprofit in the latter half of its fiscal year, especially when its programs produced a meager $8,964.67 after expenses and a year-high $52,945.43 in general and administrative expenses for the same month. That combination resulted in a $43,980.76 loss, but it pales in comparison to the funds raised by selling concert tickets and the second fundraising challenge that ended in May. The center has yet to release financial details for the concert series, which ended with a July 2 performance by The Grass Roots. The Islander also requested financial reports through the Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau, which sponsored the concert series, but it failed to provide the documents before the press deadline. Despite this late turnaround, the community center continued a yearly tradition of beginning its fiscal year — the 2021-22FY began July 1 for the nonprofit — without releasing a budget.

Center offers teen course in babysitting

There’s more to babysitting than ordering pizza and streaming Netflix. So the Center of Anna Maria Island is offering a course for kids ages 12-17 interested in babysitting. The course will be noon-2 p.m. July 26, July 28 and July 30 at the center, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria. Students will study to become CPR, AED and firstaid certified, as well as learn about the business of child care — working with parents, supervising children, safety and caregiving. Registration is required by Tuesday, July 20. The cost is $85 for members and $100 for nonmembers. For more course information, contact Monica Simpson by email at culture@centerami.org. To register, call the center at 941-778-1908 or go online to www.centerami.org.

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HB detective achieves Holmes Beach Police detective Sgt. Brian Hall is pictured with wife, Patty, and son, Victor, on graduating the florida criminal Justice executive institute’s florida leadership academy as a front-line supervisor. the fla included training on the “skills necessary to support the needs of their agencies and their communities” in a fourweek course. Hall was one of 39 first-line supervisors to graduate this year from the academy. islander Photo: courtesy HBPd

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Cops & Courts

Staff reports

HBPD arrests Lake Placid woman for DUI By ryan Paice islander reporter

Holmes Beach police arrested Lake Placid resident Shellie Connolly, 54, July 5, for driving under the influence of alcohol, a second-degree misdemeanor. The case began when a dogwalker called the Holmes Beach Police Department to report finding a woman unconscious behind the wheel of a vehicle. An officer arrived to find Connolly asleep in the driver’s seat of her vehicle, with the engine off. The officer called emergency medical services to test Connolly’s vitals. EMS workers medically cleared her but told officers HBPD officers on scene that Connolly showed signs of intoxication. The officers interviewed Connolly, who spoke with slurred speech and had bloodshot eyes, according to the arrest report. They also saw several empty beer cans and smelled

alcohol in the vehicle, so they asked her to complete a field sobriety test. Connolly agreed to the test and failed. The officers arrested Connolly and transported her to the HBPD. There, she agreed to complete a Breathalyzer test, which found 0.205 milligrams of alcohol per 100 milliliters of blood. The legal blood/alcohol content limit for driving under the influence is 0.08 in Florida. An officer then transported Connolly to the Manatee County jail, where she was released the next day after posting $120 bond. A second-degree misdemeanor charge carries varying punishments, including fines and up to nine months in prison for a first conviction. An arraignment will be held at 8:55 a.m. Thursday, Aug. 5, at the Manatee County Judicial Center, 1051 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton.

Driver damages AMI bridge railing Unsolved murder-mystery emergency personnel respond aug. 1, 1980, in Holmes Beach, where four people were fatally shot and one person was injured. the case — the Kingfish Boat ramp killings — remains unsolved. do you remember that day? Please, share your recollections with the islander by emailing news@islander. org. islander file Photo

Streetlife

Staff reports

Island police reports

Anna Maria July 10, 200 block of Coconut Avenue, larceny. The Manatee County Sheriff’s Office responded to a call regarding bicycle thefts. The deputy filed a report. July 11, 200 block of Palmetto Avenue, noise. The MCSO dispatched a deputy at 11:55 p.m. for a complaint of loud music. The deputy issued a citation for violation of the noise ordinance. July 11, 600 block of Rose Street, noise. The MCSO dispatched a deputy at 12:10 a.m. in response to a complaint of a loud party. The deputy issued a citation for violation of the noise ordinance. July 11, 200 block of Willow Avenue, noise. The MCSO dispatched a deputy at 12:40 a.m. for a complaint of loud music. The deputy issued a citation for violation of the noise ordinance. The MCSO polices Anna Maria. Bradenton Beach No new reports. The BBPD polices Bradenton Beach. Cortez No new reports. The MCSO polices Cortez. Holmes Beach July 8, 5800 block of Marina Drive, found person. The Holmes Beach Police Department’s license plate

recognition system alerted the department to a vehicle associated with a missing person. An HBPD officer located and stopped the vehicle, confirmed the man’s identity and notified his family. July 8, Waterline Resort, 5325 Marina Drive, petit theft. A woman called the HBPD to report that someone stole luggage left outside her hotel room. An officer searched the hotel and did not find the bag, but spoke with staff about recovering security footage. July 8, 5300 block of Holmes Boulevard, alcohol. Two officers responded to a call about juveniles drinking alcohol. They found three juveniles trying to conceal a bottle of liquor in a backpack. The officers contacted the juveniles’ relatives to take custody of them and issued a juvenile referral to one who resisted detainment without violence. July 10, Manatee Public Beach, 4000 Gulf Drive, trespass warning. An officer saw a man seated outside the beach cafe late at night. The man said he planned to sleep there, but the officer advised that the area was closed until morning. The officer issued a verbal tres-

a concrete railing on the anna maria island Bridge shows signs of damage July 16, after a driver drifted off the roadway. the morning crash left the westbound lane of manatee avenue on the bridge blocked. Holmes Beach Police chief Bill tokajer told the islander July 16 that the florida Highway Patrol handled the call, while HBPd officers performed traffic control. islander Photo: Bonner Joy

pass warning. July 12, Beach View Condo, 3702 Sixth Ave., petit theft. An officer responded to a call for a bicycle theft and found a man who said several bikes he rented for his family and left unlocked outside were stolen. The officer contacted the rental company and issued a case number. July 13, Manatee Public Beach, 4000 Gulf Drive, alcohol. An officer saw a vehicle parked after hours at the beach. The officer issued a parking citation, then searched the beach and found a couple in possession of alcoholic beverages and engaged in sexual activity. The officer issued a citation. July 14, 100 block of 50th Street, alcohol. An officer saw a man sleeping on a public bench, holding an empty alcohol bottle. The officer woke the man and issued a citation and court summons. The man left the area. HBPD polices Holmes Beach. Streetlife is based on incident reports and narratives from the BBPD, HBPD and MCSO.

Storm ready? Resources for the 2021 hurricane season When the buzz begins about a storm brewing, weather-watchers increasingly turn to social media — especially twitter — for news, tracking and emergency updates. a simple way to stay up to date is to search for hashtags for a storm — #tSana or #HurricaneHenri — on twitter, facebook and instagram. additionally, the national Hurricane center provides updates on twitter via @nWSnHc and @ nHc_atlantic.

the national Weather Service informs via @ nWS and, locally via @nWStampaBay.

On the web on the web, islanders can bookmark: manatee county emergency management: www.mymanatee.org. florida division of emergency management: www.ﬂoridadisaster.org. fema: www.fema.gov. flood insurance Program: www.ﬂoodsmart. gov. national Hurricane center: www.nhc.noaa. gov. Weather underground: www.wunderground.

com/hurricane.

TV resources local tV and cable and their online counterparts will report breaking news and updates in the event of a storm and Bay news 9 provides 24-hour news.

In print the islander has contingency plans to continue publishing through a storm, as do local daily newspapers, including the Bradenton Herald and the Sarasota Herald-tribune. the islander also has plans to provide updates via social media and on its website, islander.org. — lisa neff

Page 20 THE ISLANDER | islander.org July 21, 2021 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

HB hires Tallahassee consulting firm as 2022 lobbyist By ryan Paice islander reporter

Holmes Beach is centralizing its lobbying efforts into one firm — the Ramba Consulting Group from Tallahassee. City commissioners unanimously agreed July 15 to hire the firm to lobby for the city’s legislative and appropriation goals in the 2022 legislative session. The city received three proposals for lobbying services, with one from ramba

the Tallahassee-based Dean Mead firm and two from Ramba. The Dean Mead proposal included lobbying for the city’s legislative goals — such as preserving home rule over municipal vacation rental regulations — for at least $40,000. Ramba submitted two proposals, including one to cover the city’s legislative and appropriation needs for $3,000 per month Aug. 1-July 31, 2022, and the other to cover only appropriations for $2,000 per month during the same period. Mayor Judy Titsworth recommended Ramba, who also lobbies for the city of Bradenton Beach, for all the city’s lobbying needs due to the firm’s past success obtaining money for Bradenton Beach. “He’s also really in good with the county people, which is important to us right now,” Titsworth said. She added that David Ramba, the firm’s owner, couldn’t attend the meeting but is “excited” to start work. “He’s got the relationships with the county, state and legislative officials,” Commission Chair Jim Kihm — who represents the city at the Florida League of Cities — said in support of the contract. City attorney Patricia Petruff said the commission needed to address an automatic renewal clause if Ramba’s contract is to be approved. “This commission cannot hamstring any future commissions,” Petruff said. Commissioner Carol Soustek moved to approve the contract without the renewal clause. Commissioner Jayne Christenson seconded the motion, which passed.

a sign proposed by the Key royale resident owners association was approved July 15 by the commission for placement at the entrance of Key royale. islander Photo: courtesy Holmes Beach

• Unanimously voted to approve a first reading for an ordinance regulating illuminated signage. The commission will hold a second and final reading and hearing at its next meeting. • Unanimously voted to accept a $442,268.25 grant under the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s Hazard Mitigation Grant Program to improve stormwater drainage infrastructure along Gulf and Marina drives. The commission will next meet at 5 p.m. Tuesday, July 27, at city hall, 5801 Marina Drive.

PLEASE, TAKE NOTE! RoadWatch

florida’s Historic capitol — now a museum — stands as an icon at the center of florida’s capitol complex in tallahassee. islander file Photo

In other matters… City commissioners also: • Unanimously approved a request from the Key Eyes on the road Royale Resident Owners Association to allow a sign The Florida Department of Transportation posted in the median on the east side of the bridge to Key the following notice for the week beginning July 19: Royale. • SR 684 Cortez Road at 119th Street: Crews are However, the association still must apply for a installing landscaping on the west corner of the interright-of-way permit from the building department. section, which may require occasional shoulder and lane closures. Estimated completion is October 2021. The contractor is Superior Lawn and Landscaping. For the latest road watch information, go online to The “best news on AMI” has purchased and relocated to swflroads.com or dial 511. a condo ofﬁceat 315 58th St., Holmes Beach. We’re now To check traffic via road cameras, go to fl511. across from HB City Hall and behind the Ugly Grouper. com. Same owner, staff, phone, email. New digs. And, a reminder, a fare-free trolley operates daily on Anna Maria Island.

The Islander has moved!

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Dead fish from red tide slurry some waters, drift to shorelines By Kelsey mako islander reporter

Something’s fishy. Dead fish were floating in the bay near Coquina Beach in Bradenton Beach the week ending July 18. The fish kill, one of many reported in the region in the past two weeks, correlates to a broad outbreak of red tide, Justin Bloom, founder of the nonprofit environmental group Suncoast Waterkeeper, told The Islander July 15. Red tide is a harmful algae bloom created when the oxygen-producing organisms grow out of control and create toxins, which can cause respiratory issues in humans and death among fish and other marine life. In addition to the reports of dead fish at Coquina Bayside, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission received reports of fish kills at Longboat Pass, in the Manatee River and Terra Ceia Bay, as well as on Longboat Key beaches. Robert Brown, Manatee County’s environmental protection division manager, said July 15 that county maintenance staff were removing dead fish daily from public facilities, including boat ramps. The fish were trucked to landfills and about $500,000 of tourist tax revenue was being secured for the cleanups, according to the Manatee County Emergency Operations Center. Brown said the midsummer red tide is unusually early on the calendar. Red tide blooms in the region generally occur in late summer or early fall. “They’re all different,” Brown said, referring to outbreaks. He said the outbreak is in its beginning stages and appears worse in the northern part of Tampa Bay than it is near Anna Maria Island. Also, Bloom said for now the outbreak is not as bad as the red tide of 2017-18. Karenia Brevis, the red tide organism, was detected in 107 samples on Florida’s Gulf Coast, according to a July 14 report from the FWC.

west of Port Manatee. As of July 15, some 50-75 dead fish had been reported at Coquina North and 50-75 at Coquina South boat ramps and 20-30 in Longboat Pass. Some environmentalists pointed to a state-authorized release of polluted wastewater from the defunct Piney Point phosphate plant as the source of the outbreak but state and county officials have downplayed that theory. Yet officials don’t discount the theory that pollution is fueling the outbreak. Brown said red tide responds to nutrients and the Piney Point wastewater contained a lot of nutrients. Brown also said strong currents associated with Tropical Storm Elsa pushed algae and dead fish into mangroves and canals in Tampa Bay. The FWC issued an order July 16 making snook, redfish and spotted seatrout catch-and-release only in Tampa Bay through Sept. 16. Joe Clous, vacationing in the area from Kentucky, fished at the Coquina Beach South Boat Ramp July 14 but noted he was catching fewer fish. The week of July 5, Clous caught about 20 fish in two hours, but after an hour of fishing July 14, he had Joe clous, on vacation from Kentucky, fishes July only hooked a couple of fish. 14 at the coquina Beach South Boat ramp in “I can tell the difference,” Clous said. Bradenton Beach. clous said he had fewer nibbles To report fish kills, call 800-636-0511. after dead fish began washing up onshore due to an For more information on red tide, go online to outbreak of red tide. islander Photos: Kelsey mako myfwc.com or call FWC at 866-300-9399.

Concentrations were observed in seven samples in Manatee County. High levels — equaling 1,000,000 or more Karenia brevis cells per liter — were detected at the southern tip of Bradenton Beach. Very low levels of K. brevis were found near the north end of Anna Maria Island and Palma Sola Bay, low to medium levels in Terra Ceia Bay and lower Tampa Bay area near the Sunshine Skyway Bridge and high levels at Longboat Pass and Manbirtee Key,

dead fish found July 14 near the coquina Beach South Boat ramp in Bradenton Beach.

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Page 22 THE ISLANDER | islander.org July 21, 2021 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

nesting notes By Kelsey Mako

Reporting for morning duty

AMITW volunteer Bill Booher enjoys learning about and helping mako sea turtles. He’s in his fifth year volunteering with Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring, which monitors and collects data on sea turtles and shorebirds with regular beach patrols. He became involved because AMITW is “very community-based and it’s so unique and different.” “It seemed to fit who I am,” Booher said. He discussed with the Islander earlier this summer what it is like to volunteer with AMITW. The Islander: What does an average day look like? Bill Booher: We start at about six o’clock in the morning … at Manatee Public Beach. We have an ATV crew — a driver and rider — that goes north and a crew that goes south…. What we’re really doing is we’re looking for turtle tracks. Then, we’re identifying the species of turtle that made the track and determining whether she nested. If she did nest, we are staking out the nest. Then, we document the nest. We load the nesting information into a tablet, including the species of turtle, the length of the crawl, the date, the observers identifying the nest and the location of the nest. Then, we move on to the next one. If it’s a false crawl, we do everything the same except for marking it. Today, we only had four new nets. Normally, we can get off the beach in a couple hours. Some days, it can take as many as three hours. Q: How has the program changed over time? BB: That’s kind of a funny question. Because

it turns into hatching season. Now, instead of these giant tracks, we have hundreds, and even thousands, of little tracks that are scurrying into the Gulf. Hatching season is a completely different thing. It’s like one play with two different acts… Q: What have you learned about sea turtles? BB: I’ve learned a lot because I’m interested. I look into different things. I’m sure there’s things that I don’t know yet and you haven’t even figured out the question for. I do like the fact that there are things that even the experts don’t know about turtles. Recently, I learned that green turtles are the largest hard-shell turtles in the sea turtle family. I’ve learned a lot about myself. Q: What have you learned about the beachgoers? BB: Just like turtles, there’s percentages for everything. I’ve been doing it long enough that I’ve seen some unfortunate things. But what I can say is that a much greater percentage of our visitors to the amitW volunteer Bill island are very respectful of not only the nests, but Booher on the beach, on the whole turtle experience. patrol. islander Photo Q: What do you do outside of AMITW? today’s new way of doing it could be tomorrow’s old BB: I’m semiretired. I’m part of the Anna Maria way of doing it. Every year, there are changes. Last Island Dragon Boat team. I kayak. I go to the beach. year was extremely different because of COVID-19 I do what semiretired people do. restrictions and sand reclamation. Other major Q: What does being an AMITW volunteer mean changes include the ATVs. to you? When I started, we had well over a hundred BB: It’s more than just a reason to get out of people in turtle watch. Now we’re down to maybe bed. It’s more than just a reason to stay busy. There less than 20… is a connection between the water, the sand, the Q: Would you say you are still close with the turtles and people …. people you met who are no longer part of AMITW? For more information on AMITW, islandturtleBB: Yes. Even though they may not be doing watch.com or call Fox at 941-778-5638. turtle volunteering for AMITW, they’re still turtle folks. They still love turtles and they still walk the beach and look for tracks. Just because you don’t have a volunteer T-shirt does not mean you’re not part of the AMITW community… Q: What is the best part about being a volunteer? BB: We have two distinct parts of the season. We have nesting and we have hatching. Right now, the best part is finding the turtle tracks. Every turtle as of July 18, amitW had identified 358 nests, track that I get to identify brings me joy and a big 488 false crawls and three hatched nests on smile. ami. When mama turtles stop coming up the beach,

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Do’s and don’ts for nesting season the florida fish and Wildlife conservation commission recommends people follow these guidelines: • DO turn off or adjust lighting along the beachfront to prevent nesting sea turtles from becoming disoriented and moving toward the glow of light on land, instead of natural light reflecting on the surface of the water. indoor lights should be turned off, with curtains closed after dark, and outdoor lighting should be turtle-friendly bulbs. use fixtures low to the ground and shielded from view at the shoreline. • DON’T use flashlights or camera flashes on the beach at night. they can distract nesting sea turtles and cause them to return to the water. • DO clear the way at the end of the day. nesting female sea turtles can become trapped, confused or impeded by gear left on the beach at night. cliP

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remove items such as boats, tents, rafts and beach furniture and fill in holes or level sand castles before dusk. Holes trap turtles and can injure people. call code enforcement to report unattended property or large holes on the beach. city of anna maria code enforcement — 941-708-6130, ext. 139 or ext. 129. city of Bradenton Beach code enforcement — 941-778-1005, ext. 280. city of Holmes Beach code enforcement — 941-708-5800, ext. 247. report sick, injured, entangled or dead sea turtles to the fWc Wildlife alert Hotline, at 1-888-404-3922, #fWc or *fWc on a cellphone or text tip@ myfWc.com. for more information, contact Suzi fox at suzifox@gmail.com or 941-7785638.

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July 21, 2021 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 23 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

the Historic Bridge Street Pier stretches over Sarasota Bay, the largest and deepest coastal bay between tampa Bay and charlotte Harbor and one of 28 estuaries in the united States. the Sarasota Bay estuary Program is circulating a draft plan for protecting the bay. islander Photo: Jack elka

By Lisa Neff

Building better habitats

Dead fish on the shore gets attention — national media devotes coverage, gubernatorial candidates jab and dodge, business owners fret and tourists fear. But when the dead fish are cleared and the red tide dissipates, so does concern for the health of our waters. All locals might not be fortunate enough to have water views from their homes, but it’s safe to guess that we’re minutes away — by foot or car — from a bay, a river, a canal, the neff Gulf of Mexico. I can walk two minutes and stand at the shore of one bay, drive 10 minutes and be at the shore of another bay, add five minutes — during off-hours — and sit on a Gulf beach. Among my multiple identities, I’m a resident of the Greater Sarasota Bay Watershed and the way I maintain my habitat impacts bay habitats. The Sarasota Bay Estuary Program earlier this summer published a draft document examining the health of Sarasota Bay, exploring progress and setbacks in bay recovery and identifying goals and actions, including a plan to restore shoreline, wetland and bay habitats. SBEP reports progress with restoring seagrass, increased numbers of live oysters in tidal creeks, as well as projects to improve freshwater wetlands, restore dunes, remove exotic plant species, establish bird habitats, conserve land and prescribe burns — all to benefit the bay. But more must be done to improve fisheries, enhance coastal wetlands, improve shoreline resiliency, protect freshwater wetlands and restore seagrass habitat to boost the bay’s health. “Healthy bay water quality and wildlife require a diversity of interconnected habitats in the watershed … that support the full suite of natural processes to sustain life,” SBEP’s report states. Goals include: • Restore creek and canal flow ways to mimic natural stream functions. Naturalizing people-made canals and altered waterways provides better habitat for fish and wildlife. • Enhance coastal wetlands by installing living shorelines, protecting spoil islands and reducing or eliminating mangrove trimming. Historically, marshes were drained and dredged for buildings and seawalls, fragmenting and impairing the bay’s coastal wetlands.

• Increase upland and freshwater wetland habi- gets in most bay segments in 2020. • Protect beaches and dunes for wildlife and resiltat. Since the 1950s, development has degraded, frag- iency. The barrier island beaches provide critical habitat mented and replaced upland forests and freshwater for the marine life and wildlife of Sarasota Bay but wetlands. So today, the SBEP area has just 5,599 acres they face threats from erosion, invasive species, polof freshwater wetlands and 4,648 acres of forested lution, recreation and, yes, the grooming that makes the white sand look so good. uplands. Grooming eliminates beach wrack and beaches • Restore hard bottom and seagrass habitat in the bay by creating new reefs, mapping seagrass and without wrack have diminished habitat — lower speimplementing water quality strategies to increase pro- cies richness and abundance of the invertebrates and fewer shorebirds. ductive and resilient seagrass. Seagrass meadows provide food and habitat for finfish and shellfish, and seagrass is vital in cycling On the web The Sarasota Bay Estuary Program’s 208-page nitrogen and carbon, as well as beneficial to reducing comprehensive conservation and management plan wave action and coastal erosion. But seagrass acreage did not meet restoration tar-

‘Unprecedented manatee mortality’ the manatee continues to face threats. the florida fish and Wildlife conservation commission released data this month showing that more manatees died in the first half of 2021 than in any other entire year in recorded history. fWc said 841 manatee deaths were recorded Jan. 1-July 2, breaking a record of 830 deaths in 2013. the fWc research institute said the “unprecedented manatee mortality due to starvation was documented on the atlantic coast this past winter and spring.” islander file Photo

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Page 24 THE ISLANDER | islander.org July 21, 2021 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Summer sports continue after Elsa interruption By Kevin P. cassidy islander reporter

After a one-week hiatus due to Tropical Storm Elsa, indoor youth soccer resumed July 13 with a pair of games in the 8-11 division in the gym at the Center of Anna Maria Island in Anna Maria. The first match saw Beach Bums cruise to a 6-3 victory over Shady Lady behind three goals and an assist from Savannah Coba and two goals cassidy and an assist from Turner Worth. Dylan Sato and Brandon Sato combined to make seven saves to help preserve the victory for Beach Bums. Jesse Zaccagnino scored two goals to lead Shady Lady, which also received a goal from Camden Rudacille and a combined nine saves in the loss from Jack Zaccagnino and Cale Rudacille. The second match of the evening saw Moss Builders outlast Solid Rock Construction by a 6-5 score. Moss Builders put on a balanced attack with five players scoring at least one goal each. Jack Schneider had a pair of goals to lead Moss Builders, which also

received a goals from Aiden Guess, Dean Schneider, Guy Schneider and Addie Guess in the victory. Solid Rock also had a balanced attack led by Chad Nunez with two goals and Matthew Winsper, Odadiah Roadman and McKenna Drake each with a goal. Isaac Roadman made four saves to lead the Solid Rock defensive effort. The center is at 407 Magnolia Ave.

par 33s for the low-net round of the day and a first place tie in Flight B. Marilyn Niewijk was alone in second place at 4-over-par 36. Duncan had a chipin birdie on the number four, while Razze saved par with a chipin on the sixth hole. A nine-hole “shamble” — counting the best two scores on each hole — wrapped up the week of golf at the club in Holmes Beach. The team of Ken Butler, Mike Cusato, Rod HamKRC golf news monds and Mike Riddick combined on a 1-under-par There was a full week of golf action at Key Royale 63 to earn the day’s championship. Second place went Club as the members managed to dodge frequent after- to the team of Nelson Eagle, Hoyt Miller, Gary Razze noon rains. and Quentin Talbert at 2-over-par 66. The men got things started with their weekly modified-Stableford system match. Scott Mitchell carded Horseshoe news a plus-4 to earn clubhouse bragging rights for the day July 14 horseshoe action at the Anna Maria City followed by Gary Duncan, who was back a point. Hall pits was short and sweet. The team of Steve Doyle Herb Clauhs, Art McMillan and Quentin Talbert were and Bob Heiger were the day’s outright champs after another point back in third place. posting the lone 3-0 record in pool play. The women played their usual nine-hole individTwo teams advanced to the knockout stage with ual-low-net match in two flights. Jana Samuels took 2-1 records in the preliminary round during the July first place in Flight A with a 3-over-par 35, two strokes 17 action. ahead of second-place finisher Sue Wheeler. Gary Howocroft and Bill Silver jump-started their Carol Duncan and Janet Razze both fired 1-over- championship match against Jerry Disbrow and Bud Meyers with back-to-back double-ringers. The duo never looked back, rolling to a 23-3 victory and bragging rights for the day. The rule took effect July 16 and continues through Play gets underway at 9 a.m. Wednesdays and SatSept. 16, according to a July 16 news release from the urdays at the Anna Maria pits. Warmups begin at 8:45 FWC. a.m., followed by random team selection. The rule applies to: There is no charge to play and everyone is wel• All Florida waters of Manatee County north of come. State Road 64/Manatee Avenue, including the Braden River and all tributaries of the Manatee River, excluding all waters of Palma Sola Bay; • All Florida waters of Hillsborough County; • All Florida waters of Pinellas County, excluding all waters of the Anclote River and its tributaries. “While it’s unfortunate that we must do this so close to the recent reopening of these species to harvest in this area, we know temporary catch-and-release measures such as these are successful in keeping fisheries sustainable throughout red tide events such as this one,” FWC executive director Eric Sutton said in the release. Brian Gorski, executive director of the nonprofit Coastal Conservation Association Florida, said, moss Builders takes on Solid rock construction in “We’ve seen the devastation to the redfish, trout and the 8-11 age division of the center of anna maria snook populations in Tampa Bay and we support the island indoor soccer league July 13, winning by 6-5 catch-and-release initiative taken by FWC.” goals. matches are played in the “cool” gym at the For more information, go online to myfwc.com/ center, 407 magnolia ave., anna maria. marine.

State resets catch-release rules in Tampa Bay The state responded to an outbreak of red tide by temporarily setting a catch-and-release rule for Tampa Bay’s population of snook, redfish and spotted seatrout.

a map defines the area for a temporary catch-andrelease rule for snook, redfish and spotted seatrout. the state rule was in response to an outbreak of red tide producing fish kills in manatee, Pinellas and Hillsborough counties. islander courtesy image Southernaire Fishing Charters

Send your fishing, sports report to news@islander.org.

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Anna Maria Island Tides

Date

July 21 July22 July23 July24 July25 July26 July27 July28

9:20a 10:13a 11:06a 11:58a 3:24a 3:37a 3:53a 4:12a

HIGH

2.8 — 2.9 — 3.0 — 3.0 — 1.5 12:49p 1.5 1:39p 1.6 2:29p 1.7 3:22p

— — — — 2.8 2.7 2.5 2.2

5:37p 6:29p 7:15p 7:56p 5:54a 6:59a 8:02a 9:06a

LOW

-0.3 — -0.4 — -0.4 — -0.3 — 1.4 8:33p 1.3 9:07p 1.2 9:38p 1.1 10:10p

LOW

— — — — -0.2 0.0 0.3 0.5

Moon

Full

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

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

July 21, 2021 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 25 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Red tide looms north and south, clean water a must to fish By Capt. Danny Stasny Islander Reporter

Fishing the waters around Anna Maria Island has turned from great to sporadic. Since just last week, when anglers were enjoying a great bite in the nearshore waters, a black cloud of red tide has moved in to both to our north and south. With reports of dead fish south of Anna Maria Island and toxic levels of algae in the northern reaches of Tampa Bay, finding a good bite can Stasny be challenging. But it’s doable. Finding areas clear of red tide is attainable, especially in the southern half of Tampa Bay — from the Sunshine Skyway Bridge southwest to Bean Point. Also, the western shorelines of Terra Ceia and Miguel bays seem to be clear of any red tide. And Anna Maria Sound — between Tampa Bay and Sarasota Bay — proved to be good. But, these conditions are changing daily. Wind and tides play major roles in moving patches of red tide and dead fish throughout the bay and its adjacent waters. You may find fish one day and the following day come to find red tide has chased everything out. Or worse, killed it. Perseverance and a little luck are required for the days to come. On my Southernaire charters, catch-and-release snook fishing is proving to be a lifesaver. I’m finding small groups of snook in the areas where the water is clean. Mangrove shorelines during morning outgoing tides are producing decent numbers of snook in all size ranges. I’m even seeing snook 20-30 inches responding nicely to free-lined hatch bait. This bite is requiring a little chumming to keep the fish motivated, but it’s working. Mixed in with this bite are some mangrove snapper — a welcome sight for anglers who want fish to take home for dinner. Surprisingly, some of these “flats” snappers are measuring up to 15 inches. Spotted seatrout are rounding out the inshore bite for me. These fish seem to be highly sensitive to the influx of water quality, which gets them moving. It

TideWatch

Xavier Collette, 16, visiting from Chicago, fished nearshore in Sarasota Bay July 16 with Capt. Warren Girle and, using shiners for bait, caught a beautiful redfish that was released after a trophy photo.

takes a little searching in order to find a good concentration — one day they are in a spot, the next day they’re not. On July 16, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission made snook, redfish and spotted seatrout catch-and-release only in Tampa Bay due to impacts from red tide. These closures — which have been shown to be successful in keeping fisheries sustainable throughout red tide events — will continue through at least Sept. 16. The following areas are affected by the new rules: All waters in Manatee County north of State Road 64/Manatee Avenue — including the Braden River and all tributaries of the Manatee River, excluding the waters of Palma Sola Bay. All waters of Hillsborough and Pinellas counties, excluding the Anclote River and its tributaries. Meanwhile, Capt. Warren Girle is finding action in pockets of Sarasota Bay despite red tide. Fishing over deep grass flats is providing a bite, especially on spot-

FWC: Red tide intensifies

Karenia brevis, the red tide organism, has persisted for months in Southwest Florida. Over the week ending July 18, K. brevis was detected in 107 samples, with bloom concentrations greater than 100,000 cells/liter observed in seven samples from Manatee County, five samples from Pasco County, 25 samples from Pinellas County, 16 samples from Hillsborough County and 15 samples from Sarasota County. K. brevis was observed at background to high concentrations in Manatee County, background to high concentrations in and offshore of Pinellas County, very low to high concentrations in Hillsborough County, very low to high concentrations in Sarasota County and very low to low concentrations in Charlotte County. In Northwest Florida, K. brevis was observed at background to medium concentrations in and offshore of Pasco County. On Florida’s Gulf coast, fish kills suspected to

be related to red tide were reported in Manatee, Pasco, Pinellas, Hillsborough and Sarasota counties. Fish kills in Manatee County were reported July 9-11 in Terra Ceia Bay, including angelfish and mullet, as well as July 10-15 on Longboat Key beaches and in Longboat Pass, including mullet, pinfish, grunt, snook and eel. Fish kills July 11 at the Sunshine Skyway Fishing Pier, included mullet and pinfish and July 13 in Tampa Bay near the mouth of the Manatee River they included Spadefish, goliath grouper, mullet, catfish, grunt, red drum, sheepshead, snook, stingray and trout. July 13 at Piney Point, fish kills reported were red drum, snook, trout and mullet; and there were fish kills July 14-15 at the Coquina boat ramps in Bradenton Beach. Respiratory irritation was reported in Manatee, Pinellas, Sarasota, and Lee counties. For more, go to myfwc.com/research/redtide.

ted seatrout. Respectable numbers of trout are being caught, although most are lower-slot fish — 15-16 inches. While targeting trout, Girle is putting clients on a variety of other species, including jack crevalle, ladyfish and bluefish. Moving to the shallower flats in the bay, Girle is putting clients on catch-and-release redfish. Casting baits around oyster bars and mangroves is producing the reds, with some reaching 29 inches in length, and a handful of catch-and-release snook. Capt. David White is escaping red tide by running charters offshore in the Gulf of Mexico, where both live and frozen baits are being well received. Snapper — yellowtail, mangrove and American reds — are dominating the bite. Fishing wrecks, reefs and hard bottom is producing the best action for White’s clients. Also while in these areas, his anglers are hooking into some gag and red grouper. Moving inshore, catch-and-release snook are the primary catch. Free-lining shiners around the mangrove shoreline is resulting in numerous hookups. Over deeper grass flats, mangrove snapper are sporadic and some spotted seatrout are in the mix. Capt. Jason Stock is impressed with the bite while fishing offshore on the Gulf of Mexico. Fishing depths of 100 feet or more is providing solid action on American red snapper. Also in the same areas, African pompano and gag grouper are being caught, which is always a welcome sight. Moving in a little closer, yellowtail snapper are being caught frequently. In fact, limits of these tasty fish are attainable. Fishing shallow water wrecks in 30-50 feet of water is still good for a permit fishing. Mangrove snapper, Spanish mackerel and goliath grouper also are being reeled up. Jim Malfese at the Rod & Reel Pier says catchand-release snook are being caught despite some mild episodes of red tide. Using live shrimp or pinfish as bait is resulting in hookups with linesiders. Mangrove snapper are being caught by anglers opting to use live shrimp as bait. Send high-resolution photos and fishing reports to fish@islander.org.

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Page 26 THE ISLANDER | islander.org July 21, 2021 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

For blue crabs, the catch is all about location, location

By Kane Kaiman islander reporter

One Cortez fisher is singing the blues. And it’s good news. According to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, blue crab fishers in some areas of the state have reported low catch rates this year. Others say they’re doing fine. “I’ve been able to catch enough crabs to keep working, which means I’m making a living,” said Brian Lacey, a Cortez fisher who supplies markets across the state with blue crab. “Is it phenomenal? Is it like 2019? No, but that was a perfect storm for the crab fishery,” he said. In 2019, Florida fishers landed about 8.3 million pounds of blue crab — up from 7.3 million in 2018. An unusually persistent algal bloom led to fish kills in the Gulf in 2018 and crab landings tend to increase the year after red tide events. “Fish eat crabs, and if the fish aren’t there to eat them, they can grow prolifically,” Lacey said. In 2020, landings dropped to about 6.7 million pounds, a decline Lacey attributes to the pandemic. He said that during the shutdown, when restaurants were closed, he had no reason to catch crabs. On July 15, blue crab landings for 2021 stood at about 2.2 million pounds, according to FWC data. Anecdotal reports from fishers, restaurants and retailers suggest landings in some areas of the state a sketch of callinectes sapidus — the blue crab. islander image: noaa fisheries

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— as well as the country — are down. At the Organized Fishermen of Florida annual meeting July 10 in Cortez, fishers reported that blue crab landings this year have been dismal. The Swordfish Grill in Cortez has offered all-youcan-eat blue crab on Sundays for the past three years but removed the crustacean from their menu in midMarch when supply no longer met demand. “We would say, ‘Oh, yeah, we have blue crab here every Sunday,’ but then we’d run out at 4 o’clock and people would be upset that they came all the way out here,” said Lily Banyas, a manager at the restaurant. According to Rich Demarse — owner of Gulf Coast Kitchen & Takeout, a Bradenton restaurant, and a retail market, Gulf Coast Crab and Seafood — there appears to be a nationwide shortage of blue crab. Demarse said that while Lacey has been keeping his businesses supplied in recent months, retailers in South Carolina have been lamenting crab shortages. According to FWC public information specialist Amanda Nalley, it’s too early to tell if Florida landings are down this year and localized effects, such as red tide, can impact landings at the regional level. Lacey — who typically works 300-500 traps — said he insulates himself from localized scarcity with a willingness to travel tens of miles up and down the coast to chase down migrating crabs. The nine-year fisher said he thinks the blue crab fishery is in good shape. “With the blue crab stock that we have, I’m satisfied,” he said. “With the numbers we’re catching and what we’re seeing, I feel like the fishery is in a good spot.” The FWC concurs. Aside from a 10-day derelict trap cleanup in alternating years, the blue crab harvest in Florida never closes. According to Nalley, blue crabs are a relatively short-lived species that can spawn year round. Previous assessments have indicated the blue crab population in Florida is not overfished, and lean years are due to the cyclical nature of the fishery, she said. Lacey also fishes for stone crab, mullet and brim, and said that, while the red tide that appears to be

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commercial fisher Brian lacey poses July 15 in cortez with his sons, Bryson, left, and Hunter, who holds a mounted, trophy-size blue crab. lacey and his crew pulled the traps in the background from the water July 8-9 in preparation for a 10-day break from crabbing that allows derelict trap retrieval by the state. islander Photo: Kane Kaiman

brewing in the Gulf this year will hurt commercial fishing overall, it may lead to another abundant year of blue crabs in 2022.

Crab keys

Blue crabs are popular for their sweet, mildly briny flavor. The blue-to-olive-shelled crustaceans are native to the east coast of the Americas — from Nova Scotia to Argentina — and the Gulf of Mexico. They are bottom dwellers that tend to prefer the shallows in warmer months. Blue crabs live three to four years and can reach maturity in less than a year. The shells of adult crabs can measure up to 9 inches in length. Blue crabs are opportunistic feeders and have been known to eat clams, oysters, mussels, freshly dead fish, plant and animal waste and other blue crabs. They are preyed upon by large fish, birds and sea turtles. Female crabs can produce as many as 3.2 million eggs per brood. — Kane Kaiman

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July 21, 2021 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 27 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Cortez hosts annual statewide gathering of commercial fishers By Kane Kaiman islander reporter

They’re getting caught up. Organized Fishermen of Florida — a nonprofit that works to improve the economic well-being of stakeholders in Florida’s commercial fisheries through lobbying, education and conservation efforts — held its annual convention July 10 at Fishermen’s Hall, 4515 124th St. W., Cortez. Due to the pandemic, it was the organization’s first statewide meeting in more than a year. Nathan Meschelle, president of the Cortez chapter of OFF, organized the meeting, and the organization’s 10 chapters participated. Discussion included lobbying efforts, the implementation of a statewide seine net endorsement program and the status of commercial fisheries. Offshore fishers reported a positive trend in the grouper/snapper fishery, which they said had been suffering from a species imbalance. “They’re not having to weed through so many red snapper to catch their grouper quota, which is good,” Meschelle said July 11. Despite new regulations from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission — including a shortened season and an increase in the minimum claw size — OFF stone crabbers said 2020-21 was a good season in terms of landings and prices. However, blue crab and spiny lobster trappings this year are abysmal, as well as inshore net fishing for “food fish,” according to attendees. “For lobster, some of the guys said, in 50 years, this was their worst year of harvest,” Meschelle said. OFF members chalk up the scarcity to poor water quality. “A lot of this shortage in the blue crab, the mullet

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nathan meschelle, president of the cortez chapter of organized fishermen of florida, second from right, stands with off leadership at the organization’s annual meeting July 10 at fishermen’s Hall in cortez. islander Photo: courtesy dixie Sansom

and any other netted fish — such as brim, jack crevalle and ladyfish — we’re looking to blame it on water quality,” Meschelle said. “We’ve had back-to-back red tides and it seems to not be going away — it just kind of subsides a little bit and then, every year, it warms up,” he said. Despite the discouraging reports, Meschelle said it was good to see fellow commercial fishers from around the state after the long layoff. “Sometimes fishermen feel alone, because there’s not a lot of us around,” he said. “But when you can

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

ANNOUNCEMENTS

HELP WANTED Continued

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