The Islander Newspaper E-Edition Wednesday, June 16, 2021 by The Anna Maria Islander Newspaper

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JUNE 16, 2021 Free

NO. 34

the Best news on anna maria island Since 1992 astheworldterns. 6 am commissioner resigns. 2

Q&A 061621

islander.org

on the move

treehouse owner: more fines ‘unjust.’ 4

Meetings. 4 BB tweaks pandemicrelated dining regs. 5

Opinions. 6 10-20 YeArs Ago

Looking back. 7

HB oKs commercial rezone. 8

Save the date. 10 center welcomes ‘Bad company.’ 11

RoadWatch. 12 Streetlife. 12 storm ready. 13

Gathering. 14 father’s day tribute. 14 HB approves $22.5K for center. 15 Walkers plead for trail improvements. 16 county disconnect on HB call for help. 17

NESTING NOTES. 1st shorebird nests observed. 18

firing up for dad. 19 adult soccer playoffs underway. 20 fishing gets hotter. 21 county oKs funding for BB pier. 22 ISL BIZ. networking with Pirates in margaritaville. 23 cLASSIFIEDS. 24

PropertyWatch. 26

NYT puzzle.

a sea turtle makes its way back to the gulf of mexico June 10 after nesting near 77th Street in Holmes Beach. anna maria island turtle Watch and Shorebird monitoring volunteers Kathy doddridge and carla Boehme discovered the loggerhead on the beach shortly after dawn — a rare daylight sighting — and marked the nest. islander Photo: courtesy Kathy doddridge Preschooler grady niedzwick poses June 4 in his graduation cap with teacher Pam Bertrand as other graduates from the School for constructive Play wait on top of the slide to receive their honors. the school operates at gloria dei Lutheran church in Holmes Beach. more, page 11. islander Photo: courtesy SfcP

Moving on up

county gives nod to county declares ‘war’ Privateers, cities $500K for Mote center with HB over parking, concede, move July 4 denies $283K request parade to July 3 on Anna Maria pier By amy V.t. moriarty islander reporter

They said yes! Manatee County commissioners unanimously voted June 8 in favor of spending $500,000 to prepare the vacant 1,800 squarefoot space at the T-end of the Anna Maria City Pier, 100 S. Bay Blvd., for a Mote Marine Laboratory outreach center. The funds are raised from a 5% bed tax on accommodations of six months or less. The Manatee County Tourist Development Council recommended approval earlier this year. With live marine exhibits, seminars, workshops and other educational components along with community partnerships, Anna Maria Mayor Dan Murphy told county commissioners the center would be an asset to the county and the entire west coast of Florida. They heartily agreed. “I think it is one of the most exciting projects from an educational and tourist development standpoint. So I’m really excited that we’re going to see this come to the Anna Maria pier,” Commissioner Misty Servia said. She chairs the TDC. County Commissioner Kevin Van Ostenbridge, whose District 3 encompasses Anna Maria Island, said the center is “exactly what turn to MOTe, Page 2

By ryan Paice islander reporter

The conflict between Manatee County and Holmes Beach over the city’s parking restrictions has escalated into a war. Manatee County commissioners fired the first shot June 8 when they voted 5-2 to deny a request for $282,910 from Holmes Beach due to its parking restrictions along some roadways. Commissioners Reggie Bellamy and Misty Servia voted “no,” stating that the improvements would benefit the county. The city implemented a park-by-permit system last summer to reduce parking along some residential streets when people flooded island beaches as many other Florida beaches remained closed due to the pandemic. The system involves selling decals to residents and property owners to allow them to park a vehicle in one of 645 spots where the city prohibited public parking 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Several county commissioners have criticized the changes, claiming the reduction in spaces created an “unwelcoming environment” for those who must travel to enjoy the beaches. County Commissioner Kevin Van Ostenbridge and Holmes Beach Mayor Judy Titsworth met June 7 with county administrator

turn to parKinG, Page 4

REAL CHEFS REAL FLAVOR

By amy V.t. moriarty islander reporter

The celebration for the Fourth of July 4 will come a day early on Anna Maria Island. The Anna Maria Island Privateers’ annual Independence Day Parade was set to step-off from Coquina Beach in Bradenton Beach at 10 a.m. July 4 and travel north to Anna Maria. Each city in May approved the nonprofit’s parade plan. It was an oversight all the way. And it seemed a done deal for the largest island celebration in more than a year due to the coronavirus pandemic. But July 4 is a Sunday. And in a letter to the Privateers and leadership in the three cities, the Rev. Ed Moss of CrossPointe Fellowship in Holmes Beach requested a change to avoid clashing swords with Sunday morning’s religious services. The Privateers agreed and, as of June 14, so had two of the three island cities. “Because the Privateers celebrate and honor our country’s freedoms and independence for all Americans, we have elected to change the July 4 parade to July 3 to allow island church parishioners and followers of Christ to attend Sunday morning services without any disruption,” AMIP president turn to parade, Page 3

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MOTe continued from Page 1

AM commissioner to step down after June 24 we should be using the bed tax for.” Life can take an unexpected turn. Van Ostenbridge said his family has a history with Muscatello said the June 24 commission meeting Such a turn led Anna Maria Commissioner Joe would be his last, giving the remaining four comthe pier and he shared a couple of stories about his Muscatello to announce June 10 at a city meeting missioners time to decide what to do about his seat grandfather, who helped drag a beached whale back he will not fulfill the remainder of until the municipal election. into Tampa Bay and also helped rebuild the pier after his term, which ends in November, Hurricane Elena caused damage in 1985. Muscatello was appointed Jan. 9, 2020, by four and he won’t seek reelection. Of course, the pier of Van Ostenbridge’s grandcommissioners to fill the seat held for 16 years by In addition to Muscatallo’s seat, Dale Woodland, who was disqualified prior to the father’s day is now gone — damaged by 2017’s Hurseats held by Carol Carter and Jon- 2019 election for an error in his campaign accountricane Irma and later demolished. athan Crane, all for two-year terms, ing. The pier that stands in its place was built with are up in November, with candidate funding assistance from the TDC, Murphy said. Calling his departure a “sabbatical from the muscatello qualifying set for Aug. 16-27. When Murphy shared the news at an Anna Maria island,” Muscatello said he was going to take time After a moment of stunned silence in the cham- to focus on himself and his family. City Commission meeting May 10, he received a round bers, the other commissioners thanked Muscatello of applause from attendees. But this isn’t goodbye for Muscatello, who for his commitment to the island and wished him ended with, “This is still my island.” While the county commissioners approved Mur— amy V.t. moriarty well. phy’s funding request, he said they must sign an interlocal agreement, which a county legal team will draw up for review when county commissioners return July Vic Mattay — opened City Pier Grill & Bait Shop, a als to open a full-service restaurant before Mote came take-out food operation and beer and wine bar — in to the city. 27 from a monthlong recess. In February, the commission selected the Mote Another step Murphy said has to happen before the smaller of two buildings at the T-end of the pier. The city heard and dismissed a number of propos- project. In March, it approved the Mote agreement. construction is finalizing the agreement with Sarasotabased Mote, including a contract for construction and a 10-year lease for the space. The contract should be straightforward as most of it is laid out in a memorandum signed in March by the mayor and Mote CEO Dr. Michael Crosby, Murphy told The Islander June 10. Waiting for the interlocal agreement, however, could delay bids for construction and therefore delay the project, which was initially anticipated to be ready for the public in October. How Mote came to the pier After the historic city pier was deemed a loss by the insurer in the wake of damage caused by Hurricane Irma, a new pier was constructed and opened last summer. The historic pier housed a restaurant and bait shop. When the new pier opened, a team of Pine Avenue businesspeople — Brian Seymour, Nick Graham and

Visitors flock to the anna maria city Pier June 11 to fish, dine and take in the views of tampa Bay. county commissioners voted June 8 to direct $500,000 of tourist tax revenue to fund a mote marine Laboratory outreach center on the pier. islander Photo: amy V.t. moriarty

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holding the July 4 parade on July 4. And Privateer Tim “Hammer” Thompson posted, Kim “Syren” Boyd told the Anna Maria commission June 10. “We apologize if this change causes any “Can we change Christmas to Saturday if it falls on a further inconvenience, but we believe in freedom for Sunday? Asking for a Friend.” The last time the parade fell on Sunday was 2010 everyone in this island community that we love so and it was celebrated that year on July 4. much.” A request to change the permit date will be heard June 17 by Bradenton Beach commissioners. Holmes Beach commissioners approved the permit change June 9 and Anna Maria commissioners followed June 10. Anna Maria approved the plan to reschedule the parade with a stipulation that the nonprofit contract either two off-duty Florida State Police troopers or two Manatee County sheriff’s deputies — one to lead the processional and one to bring up the rear. Boyd said the off-duty deputies engaged to work the Sunday date were not available July 3, but two offduty troopers agreed to work the Saturday parade. Boyd said the cost to hire the troopers is twice that of hiring deputies, but it’s a cost the nonprofit is willing to pay. The solution didn’t work for some. In a June 10 email to Anna Maria Mayor Dan Murphy, Nikki Kaleta, owner of Boutique Vacation Rentals & Property Management in Holmes Beach, ABOVE: Privaexpressed concern about the disruption to vacation teers president arrivals and check-outs July 3. Kim “Syren” Boyd Saturday is “turnover” day for many vacation rentexplains the nonals and is a busy beach day. Murphy detailed an additional caveat from Anna profit’s cost increase for the parade at a Maria commissioners in an email: that vacation rental June 10 Anna Maria agents “be notified of the changes to the parade date meeting. and time and be advised of the issues regarding masRIGHT: The Rev. Ed sive traffic jams if all check out at the same time.” Moss explains his The mayor concluded his email saying, “Any help request to change you can provide in making this an orderly parade will the Fourth of July be appreciated by all who live in, work in and visit our Parade date to July island community.” 3. Islander Photos: Meanwhile, news of the date change lighted up Bonner Joy posts on social media, including The Islander’s Facebook page, where posters overwhelmingly favored parade continued from page 1

Q&A 061621

The Islander poll

Last week’s question The Privateers are celebrating a 50th anniversary. What’s your favorite pirate greeting? 24%. Ahoy. 41%. Argh. 12%. Arr. 11%. Yarr. 12%. Yo-ho-ho. This week’s question The Center of Anna Maria will host Steve Augeri of Journey fame at an outdoor concert June 17. What’s the best Journey song? A. “Don’t Stop Believin’” B. “Wheel in the Sky” C. “Lights” D. “Lovin,’ Touchin,’ Squeezin’” E. Other To take the poll, go online to islander.org.

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Treehouse owner: more fines ‘unjust,’ HB magistrate concurs By ryan Paice islander reporter

Conflict over a treehouse — and now over the rental of vacation units at the same property at 103 29th St., Holmes Beach — is ongoing. Holmes Beach’s special magistrate Michael Connolly, a Sarasota attorney, ruled June 11 in favor of the city, finding Richard Hazen and Lynn Tran-Hazen in repeat violation of city code by renting the vacation units at their property without a valid vacation rental license. However, his ruling imposed connolly no additional fines with the $127.24 administrative fee. The Hazens reside at the property and a treehouse on the beach, where they operate four vacation rental units as Angelinos Sea Lodge. Their case began in 2011, when they surrounded the Australian pine tree with a two-story elevated treehouse on the beachfront within the setback for the erosion control line without a construction permit and in opposition to Florida Department of Environmental Protection rules. The city found the structure in violation of the municipality’s land development code and moved for its removal in 2013, sparking litigation with the

owners. Hazen and Tran-Hazen were on the losing end of each ruling after several lawsuits and appeals in the 12th District Circuit Court over the years since. tran-Hazen The U.S. Supreme Court also denied two petitions from the Hazens asking the court to review their case. Only one circuit court case over the treehouse remains and Judge Charles Sniffen said June 9 he would issue a ruling on the city’s motion to dismiss and impose sanctions within the coming weeks. Litigation has cost the city $184,955 and the property owners $170,000, according to the parties. And the property owners have accumulated more than $105,000 in city fines. Connolly ordered the owners to stop renting the units at the property in March, then added a $125 daily fine on top of a $50 daily fine in April. The fines continue to accumulate until the owners obtain a vacation rental license through the city. However, they must pay the city all accumulated fines before they can obtain the license. Code compliance supervisor JT Thomas presented the city’s case against the owners for repeatedly renting out vacation units without a city-issued license, point-

ing to several pictures and police testimony illustrating continued rental activity at the property. Thomas recommended Connolly order the pair to stop rental activity, issue a $127.24 administrative fee and fine them $500 per day from May 19 until they obtain the appropriate license from the city. Tran-Hazen admitted to continuing rental activities at the property but asked Connolly to withhold additional fines since they were already struggling to pay the city’s fines. She added that they planned to remove the treehouse after several years of litigation. “We cannot afford to pay the enormous fines of the treehouse and the vacation rentals any time soon,” Tran-Hazen said. “Adding more fines to the already large amount of fines that we cannot pay and, at the same time, ordering us to stop earning a living is simply unjust and unconscionable.” Connolly said he ruled against additional fines because he didn’t believe further increasing the owners’ financial burden would encourage compliance. “I’m struggling with what we gain by increasing that fine amount,” Connolly said. “I don’t think changing $125 a day to $500 a day is going to make that happen any more quickly, so I’m inclined to leave it as is.” “Sadly, I’m a magistrate, not a mediator — and what you all need is a mediator,” he added.

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Dr. Scott Hopes and Holmes Beach Police Chief Bill Tokajer to discuss the matter. Titsworth said June 8 the meeting was “amicable” and officials were able to “get a lot off our chests” while agreeing to meet again. However, that amicability was not evident throughout much of the county commission’s June 8 discussion of the $282,910 request to use tourist tax money to reimburse city-funded improvements to a seawall along Marina Drive. The reimbursement would have freed up city money to spend on improvements to bike lanes, sidewalks and landscaping. County discussion Several county commissioners listed the parking conflict as the primary reason for denying the funding, with Titsworth’s absence from the county meeting also noted. Commission Chair Vanessa Baugh said she was “disturbed” by Titsworth’s “disrespectful” behavior during the June 7 meeting with Van Ostenbridge and criticized Titsworth’s absence June 8. “If it was really that important somebody should have been here to explain it and answer the questions that we have,” Baugh said. County Commissioner James Satcher said the city took advantage of the county by implementing its park-by-permit system after the county completed renourishment on island beaches. “The sand that they enjoy when they walk out of their houses, we put there,” Satcher said. “They closed off their parking to our residents right after that renourishment was done. I don’t think that was an accident.”

Meetings

Anna Maria City June 17, 2:30 p.m., planning and zoning. June 24, 6 p.m., commission. June 28, 2:30 p.m., planning and zoning. CANCELED Anna Maria City Hall, 10005 Gulf Drive, 941708-6130, cityofannamaria.com. Bradenton Beach June 16, 1 p.m., planning and zoning. June 17, 10:30 a.m., commission/CRA. June 17, noon, city commission. June 22, 9 a.m., CRA (budget). Bradenton Beach City Hall, 107 Gulf Drive N., 941-778-1005, cityofbradentonbeach.com. Holmes Beach June 22, 6 p.m., city commission. June 25, 9 a.m., building department.

People line up to speak June 8 during a Holmes Beach city commission meeting. Several discussed comments made by manatee county commissioners about parking changes the city made last year. islander Photo: ryan Paice

In fact, the city implemented its parking-by-permit system in July, around the same time the renourishment was beginning in Holmes Beach. The project finished in December. Van Ostenbridge said denying the requested funding would send a message to the city. “I’m going to vote for denial on this, and I don’t mind saying to the city of Holmes Beach that ‘your actions have consequences and, if this is denied, that will be the result of actions that they have taken.’” Bellamy tried to temper the commission’s passions and encouraged cooperation. “I hate the fact that we are starting to declare war on each other in Manatee County,” Bellamy said. “That’s not the most professional way to serve our citizens in our community.”

Holmes Beach City Hall, 5801 Marina Drive, 941-708-5800, holmesbeachﬂ.org. Manatee County June 16, 9 a.m., county commission (budget). June 17 9 a.m., county commission (land use). County administration building, 1112 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton, 941-748-4501, mymanatee. org. Also of interest June 21, 9 a.m., Manatee County Tourist Development Council, county administration building. July 4 is Independence Day. Most government offices will be closed July 5. — Lisa neff

Please, send meeting notices to calendar@ islander.org and news@islander.org.

“We are fighting for our citizens and that’s all I’ll say on it,” Baugh responded. Commissioner Carol Whitmore proposed rewriting the proposal for bike path improvements that would meet tourist tax funding requirements. Kruse seconded her motion, which unanimously passed. On another funding request, commissioners voted 5-2 to contribute $41,200 in tourist development taxes to the city for improvements at Grassy Point Preserve, including new boardwalks, informative signage and an additional entrance. Baugh and Satcher voted “no.” Holmes Beach responds Titsworth shared with The Islander a June 7 email to county commissioners in which she notified them of her expected absence. “Although I had hoped that I would be in attendance at this meeting, it may not be possible as we have a commission meeting the very same day … please feel free to reach out if you have any questions regarding this request,” she wrote. Nevertheless, Titsworth said she wasn’t surprised that county commissioners disregarded her email. “I saw that one coming,” Titsworth said. “It was set up. They wanted to slay me.” She said she was surprised, however, the county approved the city’s request for Grassy Point. “I guess they couldn’t find a good enough reason to say no,” Titsworth said. At the city meeting June 8, Commission Chair Jim Kihm said the city’s parking changes were the result of long-standing traffic and congestion issues. He added that Manatee’s population has been increasing for years, but the county has done little to fund island-based infrastructure improvements to address the flow of visitors. PLeaSe, See parKinG, Page 5

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BB resolves issues with pandemic-related dining ordinance By Kelsey mako islander reporter

Bradenton Beach city commissioners unanimously approved an ordinance June 3 to continue a COVIDrelated outdoor dining policy — but not without changes. The ordinance allows for temporary outdoor dining and merchandising in parking areas and on sidewalks to help businesses make up losses due to pandemic restrictions. Changes to the ordinance include a requirement to remove tents in the event of a state emergency, as well as a requirement to have Florida Department of Transportation-approved safety barriers. Some business people expressed concerns about outdoor dining limits during public comment. Doreen Flynn of the Drift-In on Bridge Street said the bar always has had a band outside Saturdays and Sundays, and the music wraps up before 7 p.m. “We’ve never been cited for the noise ordinance or anything. We’re not a rough bar. We’re a family bar,” Drift-In owner Joe Cuervo said. Bridge Tender Inn and Dockside Bar owner Fred Bartizal likened people who move near Bridge Street to people who move near an airport and complain about the noise. A section of the ordinance says the expanded area parKinG continued from Page 4

“I’m feeling plenty of push, but I’m not hearing any solutions,” Kihm said. Commissioner Carol Soustek also indicated the county’s lack of planning had resulted in the current parking and traffic issues. Van osten“If we opened up every parking bridge spot on the island we couldn’t accommodate the people that want to come out here,” Soustek said. “And then you’ve got another 100,000 moving into the state and you think this city can absorb them, too?” Commissioner Terry Schaefer, titsworth calling county commissioners’ remarks unsavory, spoke about the island’s contribution of around $30 million — or 76% — of the $42 million total in tourist development taxes the county collected since 2010, yet the cities receive little financial support besides beach renourishment. Schaefer said the city only receives $50,000 per year from the county to police the county-run Manatee Public Beach and Kingfish Boat Ramp — far below the city’s annual cost to police the properties. “Historically, I think they have pointed more fingers at us than they’ve taken the time and effort to address the real problems here,” Schaefer said. “I, for one, believe that this has to be a joint effort.” Commissioner Jayne Christenson said she’s accepted an invitation to meet with Van Ostenbridge

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Bridge tender inn owner and planning and zoning board member fred Bartizal speaks on behalf of his business June 3 at a city commission meeting.

may not be used for entertainment but allows for a waiver from the city commission. Additionally, city attorney Ricinda Perry said outdoor entertainment is permitted in the city if noise does not exceed decibels specified in the noise ordinance. After 10 p.m., a special permit is required. “I just think we worked so hard to promote Bridge Street,” Commissioner Jan Vosburgh said. “We shouldn’t do anything to discourage that.” Perry drafted the ordinance to state uses other than dining, such as outdoor entertainment, may be approved by application and outdoor entertainment may continue in areas where it was permitted prior to the COVID-related ordinance.

The tax allows local governments to regulate businesses within the city limits. Bradenton Beach adopts an increase every two years. • Unanimously adopted an ordinance to impose an additional 90-day temporary moratorium on the issuance of authorizations, permits or franchises related to micro-mobility hubs. The moratorium also includes the use of and hiring for micro-mobility devices. • Unanimously adopted a question for voters about eliminating term limits for elected officials on the November municipal ballot. The question is: “Should the city amend its charter removing term In other matters… limits, while maintaining the requirement that each Bradenton Beach commissioners: term shall last for two years?” • Unanimously adopted a 5% increase for the local The next commission meeting will be at noon business tax. Thursday, June 17, at city hall, 107 Gulf Drive. to discuss the matter. Christenson added that city commissioners needed to voice support for Titsworth in the face of the county’s criticism. “We’re the ones who made these rules, and she’s getting the brunt of the negative press,” she said. City and county officials will continue to meet over the coming weeks to discuss potential solutions. On the record: Locals sound off Public feedback at the city commission meeting was mixed regarding the parking changes. Bradenton resident Andrea Griffin, who urged county commissioners earlier that day to withhold funding from the city until it reversed its restrictions, told city commissioners she was “very upset” with the changes. “Taking (parking spaces) away is a slap in the county’s face,” Griffin said. “I’m a resident of this county, too. I pay taxes, too. I deserve to be using this

beach as well.” On the other side of the debate, a Holmes Beach resident spoke in support of her elected officials and the parking changes. Resident Deborah Sneddon thanked Holmes Beach Mayor Judy Titsworth for her efforts, saying the county is framing the matter as a parking issue but it really is a safety issue for residents and visitors jammed into the island’s limited real estate. “I am shocked at one of the speakers here from Manatee County who seemed to feel like it was an us-them parking situation,” Sneddon said. “We’re as concerned about those people coming to our island — if not more concerned — about their safety, and I don’t know where that’s getting lost.” “You can add as many parking places as you want — it’s getting to and from those parking places that’s the issue,” she added.

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Opinion

Our

Blow me down

There’s many a brouhaha going on right now. Maybe it’s the heat. The summer temps arrived early and the kids are out plundering, even though the summer solstice doesn’t arrive until June 20. The city of Holmes Beach is engaged in a battle with the county over the use of city streets for parking. The city: Residents deserve a break from the plundering by visitors — some with bad habits and worse manners — who descend on the beaches and park adjacent to their homes on weekends and holidays. The county: Residents of the mainland cities and unincorporated areas pay taxes and they should have unfettered access to the beaches. It’s an often-repeated battle with enough skirmishes to fill the back of the family station wagon going back to the 1970s — when all three cities started seeing major growth and demand for services beyond the scope of the residential tax base on AMI. In fact, I remember a time when the county was on the losing end of a double taxation lawsuit put on by the cities, which focused on the fees paid to the county by island residents for emergency services and law enforcement — services provided by the cities. I keep wondering about that when it comes to islanders seeing a fair return (for the community center) from the taxes we pay for parks, recreation and natural resources — let alone the tourism tax dollars. While I have no crystal ball and lack the visionary powers of Carnac the Magnificent, I’m guessing things will settle down in time for the 2022 general election. It appears to me the new members on the county board — and the scallywags who helped them gain their seats — are strutting and striving for influence. They just don’t know where their bread is buttered. What we really need are traffic solutions — immediate action, like roundabouts to smooth out the gridlock. The tourism promotions have been successful, but we need follow-through on serving the visitors who swarm our communities and beaches. Meanwhile, Anna Maria had success with its $500K grab to partner with Mote Marine Laboratory to finish the new city pier. It won’t be historic, but it will be a monumental accomplishment that, BTW, might bring more traffic and the need for parking in Anna Maria. And for the most recent hornswoggle, we have the island’s benevolent Privateers to thank for stepping up to meet demands of the churchgoers, who apparently saw the Fourth of July Parade as a threat to their Sunday morning rituals. Someone may be called to walk the plank when traffic snarls July 3 from the islandlong parade — instead of July 4 — the Saturday turnover day for visitors! I hear cannons! Fire in the hole! Aarrrrrrrr! — Bonner Joy, news@islander.org

JUNE 16, 2021 • Vol. 29, No. 34 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) ▼

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Your

Opinion

Trip on Coquina trail

Skimming online …

I enjoy the multiuse trail that extends along the Web (register for free news alerts) beach from Fifth Street South to the Longboat Pass in islander.org Bradenton Beach. Facebook It is a great source of exercise for young and old. @islandernewspaper However, over the past five years the trail has deteTwitter riorated to the point that it has become a safety hazard @ami_islander in need of immediate attention and complete resurfacInstagram ing. @theislanderami Much of the asphalt surface is uneven from the Pinterest numerous attempts at patchwork repairs, creating @islandernewspaper potential areas for trip and fall injury accidents. E-edition In addition, there are areas where the AustraFor $36 a year or $99 for a lifetime, e-edition lian pine tree root systems have broken through the subscribers have access to the weekly e-edition asphalt. with page-by-page views of all the news, photos, I speak for the daily walkers, joggers and bicycolumns, community announcements and adverclists who would like to see this amenity brought up tisements. And they get breaking news notices. to code. To subscribe online, visit islander.org. There have been a number of improvements to For other subscriber services, call our newsCoquina Beach area lately, including lifeguard stands, paper office at 941-778-7978. change areas and the ongoing mega parking lot project. I hope the county will take action to promote a the football away. But you didn’t have my very favorite pirate greetsafe situation for an area that so many make daily use ing. And that’s “prepare to be boarded.” of and enjoy. Thanks for helping spread the word, and the word Paul Curtis, Bradenton Beach is “Aarrr!” Talk like me, matey John “Ol’” Chumbucket” Baur, International Talk I’m John “Ol’ Chumbucket” Baur, one of the two Like a Pirate Day cofounder founders of International Talk Like a Pirate Day — celebrated every Sept. 19. I was delighted to see The Islander Poll question… Have your say The Islander accepts or perhaps I should say, “Yer poll on pirate palaver original letters up to 250 words. Letters must warmed the cockles of this scurvy ol’ heart.” include name, address and phone number. Email: I voted for “Aarrr” (because “Aargh” with a “gh” news@islander.org. is the sound of frustration — the sound you make when you accidentally sit on a belaying pin the wrong way up, the sound Charlie Brown makes when Lucy pulls Visit islander.org for the best news on AMi.

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Summer fashions dressed in “summer whites,” picnickers gather circa 1915 on an anna maria island beach. the archival record names the beachgoers as marian Braymer, left, florence Zimmerman, unidentified, margaret Hurlebaus, unidentified, doris Hampton, gertrude and catherine fuller, Julia reasoner, inez morgan, mabel morrow, Pearl Keller and grace morgan. islander Photos: manatee county Public Library System

10&20 years ago

In the June 14, 2001, issue

Bathers gather on a diving platform in the gulf of mexico near the north end of anna maria island. they were guests at the “J.r. Woods home.” the photo is dated 1920-29.

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

• Anna Maria resident Rick DeFrank filed a complaint with the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office alleging Mayor Gary Deffenbaugh violated Florida’s Sunshine Law and free speech rights during a Sept. 20, 2000, budget hearing in which the mayor gaveled him out of order. • Anna Maria Mayor Gary Deffenbaugh said he would recommend to city commissioners that former Commissioner George McKay be confirmed as the city’s next public works director and interim building official. • Bradenton Beach residents urged commissioners not to cut down 25 Australian pine trees from two city parks. Vice Mayor Bill Arnold proposed removing the trees, but the only bid received was more than the city anticipated.

In the June 15, 2011, issue

• Manatee County commissioners awarded a $3.2 million contract to build an artificial reef in the Gulf of Mexico off the Coquina Beach shore. The 4.87-acre reef was to be made of limestone. • A long-proposed service to transport people from Coquina Beach parking to Bradenton Beach’s central commercial district was put back on course as an advisory committee decided to prioritize the tram service. • Anna Maria Mayor Mike Selby informed city commissioners that the city could not afford to purchase six lots at the corner of Pine Avenue and Bay Boulevard for the price of $3 million. — Lisa neff

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Holmes Beach approves commercial rezone, despite precedent By ryan Paice islander reporter

The groundwork to convert a defunct Holmes Beach bank into a pharmacy and liquor store is set. City commissioners voted 3-2 to approve an ordinance June 8 rezoning the long-vacant property at 503 Manatee Ave. from Commercial-1 to C-2, allowing the office building to be turned into retail space. Commissioners Jim Kihm, Terry Schaefer and Carol Soustek voted “yes.” Commissioners Jayne Christenson and Kim Rash voted “no.” C-1 and C-2 are both commercial zones, but C-1 is limited to office Kihm locations, while C-2 is intended for offices and retail businesses, including a retail store. The property was one of now only three C-1 properties in the city. The change to C-2 allows the property — vacant since SCD at Anna Schaefer Maria purchased it in 2012 — to be converted into a Publix Super Market pharmacy and liquor store. City staff’s review of the rezoning proposal found it fully complied with the city’s comprehensive plan and future land use map and is consistent Soustek with surrounding uses. The property is flanked by C-2 on the east and west — LaPensee Plumbing and CVS — and residential to the north and south. Planning commissioners unanimously voted June 2 to recommend city approval of the rezone. City attorney Patricia Petruff said the property owner also submitted a site plan to make changes to the structure, such as removing all but one drive-through lane, but that will need only administrative approval, not a commission vote.

Place portrait photo here

Plans for two Publix stores at the defunct regions Banks at 503 manatee ave., Holmes Beach, were presented June 8 to city commissioners during a presentation about rezoning the property from c-1 to c-2. islander Photo: courtesy interplan LLc

Public opposition Several people voiced concerns with the proposal during public comment. Holmes Beach resident Brian Mathae said C-2 zoning wouldn’t preclude C-1 uses, but would increase competition for the property — effectively pricing out C-1 operations he’d prefer for the area, such as an urgent care clinic. “I need medical services on this island for an emergency and for basic standards of living,” Mathae said. “I think the vote before you today will define your legacy as commissioners.” Resident Nancy Deal said the change would have far-reaching consequences by setting a precedent for other C-1 properties to rezone to C-2. She added that she knows of no residents who want another pharmacy/ liquor store in that area. “It boggles the mind of everyone I know,” Deal said. Bob Bolus, owner of the defunct Bank of America building at 699 Manatee Ave., said he would seek a

zoning change to C-2 due to the commission’s decision. He said he previously sought to rezone the property so he could sell food from the building, but was denied by the city. “If my property wasn’t feasible, how can you possibly sit here and approve this possible drive-through restaurant?” Bolus said. “If you allow this to happen, you sure as hell better allow mine to happen, too.” The city’s land development code allows a drivethrough, but states “This term shall not be construed to include a drive-in restaurant that is otherwise prohibited by this ordinance.” Public input swayed a couple of commissioners from voting for the proposal, which passed a May 25 first reading with a 4-0 vote. Christenson, who was absent from the first reading, said she received correspondence from concerned residents who convinced her to vote no. “Not a single one of those letters said, ‘Hey, yes, we need another liquor store!’” Christenson said. “I want to remind my fellow commissioners — just because they check all the boxes to be able to rezone doesn’t mean it’s in our best interests.” christenson Rash, who voted in support of the proposal on first reading, also said he opposes it due to public concern. Schaefer acknowledged the need for medical services, but noted that the property had garnered no interest from a medical business. rash “There just isn’t a compelling reason to reject this proposal,” Schaefer said. Soustek said many medical services couldn’t afford the real estate. She added that she would support the rezoning proposal because it would turn the vacant building into a productive asset for the city. PLeaSe, See reZOne, next Page

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HB planning commissioner speaks on retirement By ryan Paice islander reporter

It’s time for some new blood on Holmes Beach’s planning commission. At least, that’s how board member Barbara Hines feels as she plans to let her three-year term expire later this month. Hines, 76, told The Islander June 8 she believed it was time to move on to prevent stagnation on the board Hines and that as she has advanced in age, she began “losing words.” “I’ve always had this feeling that you don’t stay too long,” Hines said. “You don’t want to be the only person who has the lemonade recipe when you die. Some people hold on so hard to what they know that nobody else learns it.” Hines was an attorney in Indiana in the 1990s when she visited friends for Thanksgiving at Siesta Key and got her first taste of life in the area. reZOne from Page 8

“Just because we need something out here doesn’t mean they can afford to come out here,” Soustek said. Soustek moved to approve the ordinance and Schaefer seconded the motion. In other matters, commissioners also: • Voted 5-0 to terminate the city’s face mask ordinance that required people to wear masks in certain situations; • Unanimously approved lowering the $15 renewal fee for streetside parking permits to $10; • Voted 4-1 to approve a first reading of an ordinance to place a question on the November election ballot regarding a land swap at 104 34th St. Christenson voted “no.” The commission will meet next at 6 p.m. Tuesday, June 22, at city hall, 5801 Marina Drive.

By 1998, she and her husband, David, purchased a house in Holmes Beach — which she said felt more like a “place to live” — and by 2002, they moved to the city full-time. Hines said her career in environmental law motivated her to become involved with the city, leading her to join the city’s now nonexistent code enforcement board in 2004. However, she felt underutilized since the board rarely met, so she joined the city’s planning commission in 2012. Hines said she was much happier with the planning commission, where she could put her knowledge of environmental law into practice for the city. She said she began contemplating leaving the board in recent years, but stuck around to ensure its members were up to the task. “I have been thinking about leaving for a while because I don’t think it’s good for any organization to have people too long,” Hines said. “Now, they have a hang of things and I think they’ll do very, very well.” Hines added that she and her husband have dealt with some health issues in recent years, as well as lost a bit of processing power in the articulation department. “I’m not as articulate as I used to be,” Hines said. “It’s not affecting my memory, but I’m losing words.” Hines expressed confidence in the board’s first alternate member, Richard Brown, who will take her place at the dais. She said she believes Brown will maintain her focus and the city’s role in the area’s environmental health. Hines’ departure creates room for a new volunteer to apply as an alternate member to the board, which advises the city in land development code and comprehensive plan decisions. The planning commission meets the first Wednesday of each month at 6 p.m. at city hall, 5801 Marina

Drive. People interested in becoming a planning commissioner can visit the city’s website at holmesbeachfl. org or call at 941-708-5800.

My bridge

a morning ride across the anna maria island Bridge often results in an osprey sighting, but may 24 produced a bonus, when two birds squabbled over a sign post. islander Photo: Bonner Joy

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The Islander Calendar ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

“Hibiscus” by Harold newton will be featured in “We dream a World” at the marie Selby Botanical gardens in Sarasota. islander courtesy Photo: roger Lightle/marie Selby Botanical gardens

ON AMI Thursday, June 17 7 p.m. — Center of Anna Maria Island’s concert series with Steve Augeri of Journey fame, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria. Gates open at 6 p.m. Fee applies. Information: 941-778-1908. ONGOING ON AMI Throughout June, new artists exhibits, Island Gallery West, 5368 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6648. AHEAD ON AMI

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

Center calls kids to camp

The Center of Anna Maria Island scheduled a series of trips for tweens and teens throughout the summer. The center, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria, will offer outings to amusement parks, bowling alleys, outdoor games and activities Tuesdays and Thursdays through July 29. The trips are open to kids ages sixth-grade to 10th-grade in 2021-22. The center also offers summer camp options for kids ages 5-12 years old. The center’s “Summer My Way” camp offers eight weeks of day-camper fun. Kids can enroll in sports, arts, sailing camps by the week through July 30. For fees and more information, call the center at 941-778-1908.

July 2, Center of Anna Maria Island’s concert series with the Grass Roots and Donnie Iris, Anna Maria. July 24, Anna Maria Island Privateers Christmas in July party, Bradenton Beach. “We Dream A World, African American Landscape Aug. 1, Island Player auditions for “The Savannah Sipping Painters of Mid-Century Florida, The Highwaymen” Society,” Anna Maria. will open July 10 at Marie Selby Botanical Gardens Aug. 5-8, Anna Maria Island Privateers “Return to Tortuga: A in Sarasota. 941-778-1383. Pirate Invasion Weekend,” Anna Maria Island. The art exhibit will continue through Sept. 26. Tuesdays, noon, Rotary Club of Anna Maria Island lunch meet“We Dream a World” explores the depth of art and ONGOING OFF AMI ing, in-person at Bridge Street Bistro, 111 Gulf Drive S., Bradenton business enterprise created by a unique set of landBeach, and via Zoom. Information: 941-920-2505. Through June 27, “Kabuki Modern,” John and Mable Ringling

Highwaymen show to open

Museum of Art, 5401 Bay Shore Road, Sarasota. Fee applies. Information: 941-359-5700. Through June 27, “Roy Lichtenstein: Monet’s Garden Goes Pop!” Mary Selby Botanical Gardens, 1534 Mound St., Sarasota. Fee applies. Information: 941-366-5731. June 20-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. AHEAD OFF AMI Nov. 13, Anna Maria Island Privateers Black Tie Fundraising Gala to beneﬁt the Early Learning Coalition of Manatee County, Bradenton.

KIDS & FAMILY

scape artists who, living in a hostile climate of racial injustice, learned their artistic craft through formal and OUTDOORS & informal education. SPORTS The exhibit also will explore the little-known ONGOING OFF AMI account of an art teacher, Zanobia Jefferson, who recognized and nurtured the natural talent of young Through the summer, Bradenton Marauders baseball, LECOM African American students. Park, 1611 Ninth St. W., Bradenton. Fee applies. Information: 941Admission to the exhibit is included with admis- 747-3031, bradentonmarauders.com. sion to the gardens, 1534 Mound St., Sarasota. Saturdays, 9 a.m., Robinson Runners, Robinson Preserve For more information, visit selby.org or call 941- expansion, 840 99th St. NW, Bradenton. Info: 941-742-5923. 366-5731. Saturdays, 9 a.m., Saturday Mornings at the NEST nature

CLUBS & COMMUNITY

activities and talks, Robinson Preserve expansion, 840 99th St. NW, Bradenton. Info: 941-742-5923, ecoevents@mymanatee.org. AHEAD OFF AMI

ONGOING ON AMI

June 24, Perico Preserve wildlife spotlight on wading birds, Saturdays, June 26, July 10, July 24, Aug. 14 and Aug. 28, Perico Island. June 24, Robinson Full Moon Paddle, Bradenton. July 3, Anna Maria Island Privateers Independence Day 8:30 a.m., Kiwanis Club of Anna Maria Island breakfast and meeting, Parade, islandwide. TENTATIVE Gulf Drive Cafe, 900 Gulf Drive N., Bradenton Beach. Information: AHEAD ON AMI

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Center welcomes ‘Bad Company’

Bad Company drummer Simon Kirke performs June 11 with Empty Pockets. Kirke performed a variety of hit songs, including those recorded in the 1970s with Bad Company, and told stories about his experiences with music icons, including Bob Marley and members of the Beatles. Islander Photos: Kelsey Mako

Constructive ceremony

Drummer Simon Kirke takes a photo with a fan as other admirers wait their turn. Honorary graduate Juliette Sato, as well as graduates Cora Cole, Emmy Lewetag, Grady Niedzwick, Jackson Griffin and Lennon Hrnack, pose with their caps and certificates. Ella Melancon, Willow Palmer, Lucas Urbiola, Piper Lewis and Alianna Hopkins are not pictured but also graduated from the preschool.

Preschool student Jackson Griffin glides down a playground side to receive a graduation remembrance from teacher Pam Bertrand during a graduation for preschoolers at the School for Constructive Play. The celebration was June 4. Islander Photos: Courtesy Pam Bertrand

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BB sunshine defendant refuses to pay $19K settlement By Kelsey mako islander reporter

Bradenton Beach is planning its next step against the last remaining defendant in a long-standing Sunshine dispute. City attorney Ricinda Perry told the commission June 3 that Reed Mapes is refusing to pay his settlement and suggested the city could acquire judgment fees from a trust account that belongs to Mapes. Circuit Judge Edward Nicholas mapes ordered Mapes on May 14 to pay the city $19,760 in attorney fees and interest. City commissioners unanimously approved hiring an accountant to assist in collecting the judgment at a cost not to exceed $1,000. Mapes declined to comment June 11. Perry said an accountant would be best for estab-

lishing the groundwork to reach Mapes’ trust. “This is the process you go through when you’re trying to recover the fees,” Perry said. “We’ve got to do it. I don’t think we have a choice,” Commissioner Jake Spooner said. The order follows a 2019 ruling that six planning and zoning board and Scenic WAVES committee members violated Florida’s Government-in-the-Sunshine Laws by discussing city issues as part of the grass-roots group, Concerned Citizens of Bradenton Beach. Defendants John Metz and Tjet Martin settled with the city for a $350,000 joint payment. Defendants Patricia Shay and Bill and Rose Vincent each settled for $500. The Sunshine law requires government meetings and records to be open to the public. Obtaining an accountant is contingent on the city clerk and the city treasurer finding funding, said Perry.

RoadWatch Eyes on the road

The Florida Department of Transportation posted the following notice: • State Road 684 at the Cortez Bridge: Service crews will be making bridge repairs through June 17. Hours will be 9 p.m.-5 a.m. Motorists can expect lane closures and flagging operations. For the latest road watch information, go online to swflroads.com or dial 511. To check traffic via road cameras, go to fl511. com. And, a reminder, a fare-free trolley operates daily on Anna Maria Island. — Lisa neff

MPO takes public’s pulse on traffic-related deaths

Slow down … to take the survey. The Sarasota/Manatee Metropolitan Planning Organization is surveying the public in an effort to draft a plan aimed at reducing traffic-related deaths and injuries. The MPO invites people to participate in the “Destination Zero Survey” and offer opinions and concerns for safety on local roadways. The results of the survey found online at https:// publicinput.com/V4323 could help with the formation of policies and programs for safer travel. In the past six years, more than 700 people died The MPO will develop an action plan that and more than 8,500 were seriously injured on the addresses engineering, enforcement, education, equity, streets of Sarasota and Manatee counties. The survey is part of the regional effort to align emergency response and engagement. For more, go online to mympo.org/p/performanceplanning with the Florida Department of Transportameasures/safety-security/destination-zero. tion’s “Driving Down Fatalities” campaign.

Streetlife

Staff reports

Island police reports

Anna Maria June 4, 300 block of Magnolia Avenue, noise. The Manatee County Sheriff’s Office dispatched a deputy at 11:54 p.m. regarding loud partiers. Responding deputies heard loud music and voices and issued a citation for violation of the noise ordinance. June 7, 200 block of Palm Avenue, noise. The MCSO dispatched a deputy at 11:22 p.m. regarding a complaint of loud music. Deputies heard music and issued a citation for violation of the noise ordinance. June 8, Galati Marine, 900 S. Bay Blvd., burglary. The MCSO received a complaint regarding theft of fishing equipment valued at about $16,000. The complainant reported the items went missing while their boat was being serviced. Deputies filed an investigation report. The MCSO polices Anna Maria. Bradenton Beach No new reports. The Bradenton Beach Police Department polices Bradenton Beach. Cortez No new reports. The MCSO polices Cortez. Holmes Beach June 1, 6700 block of Holmes Boulevard, alcohol.

A ‘most considerate’ driver

Kathy caserta of Holmes Beach wrote a may 25 email to WastePro division manager Bob tenHaaf to praise driver tommy freeman for being the “most considerate driver” among the company’s local operations. caserta said she’d seen freeman stop — Lisa neff traffic to assist a pedestrian, among other good deeds. “i will be sure to pass along your praise. We are proud that all that he is doing has not gone An officer from the Holmes Beach Police Department unnoticed!” tenHaaf wrote in a may 25 reply to observed a man walking along a roadway with an open caserta. islander courtesy Photo

alcoholic beverage. The officer issued a citation. June 3, 4600 block of Gulf Drive, traffic offense. An officer saw a golf cart with too many occupants, who were not wearing seat belts. The cart was a rental that didn’t meet the city requirement for seat belts. The occupants parked the vehicle. The officer forwarded the case to the city’s code enforcement department. June 3, 130 block of 49th Street, noise. An officer responded to reports of vacation rental tenants screaming in a pool around midnight. The officer obtained a decibel reading that determined the noise violated city code. The officer issued the tenants a citation. June 4, Publix Super Market, 3900 E. Bay Drive, construction. An officer found two men trimming trees outside permitted hours. The officer halted the work and forwarded the case to code enforcement. June 4, Manatee Public Beach, 4000 Gulf Drive, fraudulent handicap placard. An officer saw a group of people unloading alcoholic beverages from a vehicle parked in a handicap parking space. The driver was apparently using his mother’s handicap parking placard, but she was not with him. The officer confiscated the placard, required the driver to change parking spaces and issued a court summons. June 6, Manatee Public Beach, fraudulent handicap

placard. An officer saw a woman enter a vehicle with a handicap placard with a hidden expiration date. The officer checked the placard and found it had expired more than a decade ago. The officer confiscated the placard and issued a court summons. June 7, Island Shopping Center, 5302 Marina Drive, marijuana/alcohol. An officer saw a vehicle parked after business hours and smelled marijuana emanating from the vehicle. The driver, a juvenile, produced a marijuana cigarette and a bag of the substance, as well as a bottle of alcohol. The officer issued citations and the occupants’ parents to pick them up. June 8, 100 block of 49th Street, larceny. A man called HBPD to report his tools stolen from a construction site. An officer determined there were no signs of forced entry or evidence pointing to a suspect. June 8, Manatee Public Beach, 4000 Gulf Drive, alcohol/trespass. HBPD responded to reports of a fight at the beach. Witnesses pointed to two men who were allegedly drinking alcoholic beverages and fighting. The officer issued citations and trespassed the pair. HBPD polices Holmes Beach. Streetlife is based on incident reports and narratives from the BBPD, HBPD and MCSO.

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storm ready? Storm prep requires knowing terms, understanding forecast “IRMA TAKING ITS TIME MOVING AWAY FROM CUBA. LIFE-THREATENING STORM SURGE EXPECTED IN THE FLORIDA KEYS AND THE WEST COAST OF FLORIDA ...” The National Weather Service issued the bulletin at 11 p.m. Sept. 9, 2017. The NWS conveyed the message, concisely, quickly to those tasked with monitoring storms, reporting the weather and coordinating emergency responses. The message also reached many people who evacuated Anna Maria Island before the storm, which did not directly hit the island but still caused flooding, power outages and property damages, including to the historic Anna Maria City Pier. Hurricane season novices departed the island ahead of Irma but also seasoned islanders who heeded the National Hurricane Center advisory that warned “Irma is a potentially catastrophic Category 5 hurricane and will bring life-threatening wind, storm surge and rainfall hazards.” Understanding the terminology in such an advisory, as well as forecast models and tracking charts is key to being storm ready. So here is a look at some of the terms and acronyms the NWS and other agencies use during the hurricane season: • CATEGORY: Hurricanes are classified in terms of intensity, from Category 1 to Category 5, with 5 being the most intense. • COASTAL FLOOD WARNING: A warning to expect significant wind-forced flooding along lowlying coastal areas. • COASTAL FLOOD WATCH: An alert to expect significant wind-forced flooding along lowlying coastal areas. • CONE OF UNCERTAINTY: The tracking model that shows the probable path of the storm center but not the size of the storm. • EOC: The emergency operations center that serves as a central location for the coordination and control of all emergency preparedness and response

a Sept. 7, 2017, graphic from the national Hurricane center shows two forecast maps for Hurricane irma — wind speed probabilities and the cone of uncertainty. islander file Photo

activities. • EVACUATION TIME: The lead-time that a populated coastal jurisdiction must have to relocate residents of vulnerable areas from an approaching hurricane. • EYE: The relatively calm area near the center of the hurricane, where winds are light and the sky is often partly covered by clouds. • EYE LANDFALL: The point in time when the eye or physical center of the hurricane reaches the coastline from the hurricane’s approach over water. • FLOOD WARNING: Indicates the expected severity of flooding, as well as where and when the flooding will occur. • FORWARD SPEED: The rate of movement of the hurricane eye in miles per hour or knots. • HURRICANE: The term for when winds reach a constant speed of 74 mph or more. These winds blow in a large spiral around a relatively calm center of extremely low pressure known as the eye of the hurricane. • HURRICANE ADVISORY: A notice describing the present and forecast position and intensity of

the storm. • HURRICANE TRACK: The line of movement of the eye through an area. • HURRICANE WARNING: An alert added to a hurricane advisory to expect hurricane conditions within 24 hours. • HURRICANE WATCH: An alert added to a hurricane advisory covering a specified area and duration. A hurricane watch means hurricane conditions are a real possibility; it does not mean they are imminent. • PUBLIC SHELTER: Generally, a public school or other such structure designated by county officials as a place of refuge. • TROPICAL CYCLONE: Low-pressure systems that include thunderstorms and rotate counterclockwise. • TROPICAL DEPRESSION: A tropical cyclone with winds of 38 mph or less. • TROPICAL STORM: A tropical cyclone with winds of 39-73 mph. • STORM SURGE: The high and forceful dome of wind-driven waters sweeping along the coastline near where the eye makes landfall or passes close to the coast.

Storm ready?

Resources for the season Twitter • The National Hurricane center: @ nWSnHc and @nHc_ atlantic. • The National Weather Service: @nWS, @ nWStampaBay. On the web • County emergency management: mymanatee.org.

Tiki & Kitty’s Let’s go shopping!

Tiki and Kitty are ready for their summer shopping adventures. Cat’s Meow has 7,700 square feet of vintage, unique and repurposed items. Plus, there’s a mancave and a cool clothing boutique. You don’t want to miss this collection of vendors. Blue Flamingo offers hip and trendy upcycled and repurposed goods, furniture and decor, from

Your place for fun, funky

antique cameras to garden features, candles, jewelry and work by local artisans. They also offer Dixie Belle paints. Blessed and Distressed is a tastefully designed store — so inviting, you’ll want to stay and visit — filled with collectibles and work by local artists at Palma Sola Square, around the corner from WinnDixie. It offers 30-plus vendors and artists, including vintage, upcycled, shabby chic, fanciful frocks and

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• State emergency management: floridadisaster.org. •FEMA: fema.gov. • National Hurricane center: nhc.noaa.gov. In print • The Islander, Bradenton Herald and Sarasota Heraldtribune.

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

local crafts and art. You won’t be disappointed. You Never Know Thrift has everything you could want: clothes, kitchenwares, small appliances, furniture, DVDs and autographed sports memorabilia. The inventory is constantly changing. We keep going back. You never know what you will find. Scavengers Marketplace welcomes you to peruse the goodies for a good cause at the Island Shopping Center in Holmes Beach. Purchases at the store benefit Moonracer No Kill Pet Rescue — our favorite pet rescue group, which is based at The Islander. Founder Lisa Williams is office manager and, along with board member/Islander sales rep Toni Lyon, they lead the rescue efforts. FYI: Scavengers also carries Fusion Paints. And don’t forget, tell people you meet along the way, “The Islander sent me.”

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Indoor market with 15 vendors & artisans Vintage, Unique & Shabby Chic Furniture Coastal, Nautical & Rustic Home Décor Antiques & Collectibles Tuesday-Saturday 10am-5pm Sunday 12-5pm Fri-Sat 10am-7pm Sunday 12pm-5pm Island Shopping Center

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Page 14 THE ISLANDER | islander.org June 16, 2021 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Gathering

Roser Church’s offer: Doughnuts for Dad

Roser Memorial Community Church will celebrate Father’s Day Sunday, June 20, during its 8:30 a.m. and 10 a.m. worship services. The Donut Experiment on Pine Avenue, owned by Shawn and Cecilia Wampole, supplied the church with free doughnut gift certificates to give out for the holiday. For more information, call the church at 941-7780414,

Shawn and cecilia Wampole, owners of the donut experiment in anna maria, donated gift certificates for a father’s day celebration at roser church, 512 Pine ave., anna maria.

Tidings

Worship and events calendar

REGULAR WORSHIP

Saturdays 4 p.m. — St. Bernard Catholic Church. Sundays 8 a.m. — Episcopal Church of the Annunciation. 8:30 a.m. — St. Bernard Catholic Church. 8:30 a.m. — Roser Memorial Community Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Information: 941-778-0414. 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. 9:30 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. 10:45 a.m. — Church of the Annunciation.

SAVE THE DATES Monday-Friday 8:30 a.m. — St. Bernard Catholic Church, 248 S. Harbor Drive, Gathering Sept. 6-7, Rosh Hashanah. Gathering is the religion page for The Islander. We Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-4769. Sept. 13, Yom Kippur. welcome news from local places of worship, as well Thursdays Please, send listings to calendar@islander.org and news@ 9:30 a.m. — Episcopal Church of the Annunciation, 4408 Gulf islander.org. as photos and calendar listings. Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-1638. Please, submit to news@islander.org. — Lisa neff

Your opinion

Patricia rod, left, of Bradenton, and her sister, deborah Sneddon of Holmes Beach relax may 31 after completing a three-month volunteer project at the Belle Haven cottage at the anna maria island Historical Society museum, 402 Pine ave., anna maria. islander Photo: courtesy amiHS/ Valerie H. Wilson

My pop, my hero

Editor’s note: The Islander invited readers to celebrate Father’s Day with essays about their dads. We welcome this tribute from islander Gene Ciliberti. By gene ciliberti Special to the islander

Happy Father’s Day, pop. You’ve been gone from me so many years but I will never forget you and all that you did for me and the family. You made it clear that you were proud of me. And, on this day of remembrance, I want to tell you of the many reasons that I am so proud of you. You were my mentor and my role model. I watched as you demonstrated every trait of what a good man should be. And you did it every day of your life. Family meant everything to you. In your native Italian, you would often state to all of us, “La famiglia prima di tutto,” which means “family is first.” What courage it took for you to come to America. While you and Mom were starting our family, you were also keeping an oath to help your four siblings to get here. You succeeded at getting them over, all during the days of the Great Depression. What a challenge to be responsible for so many people, but you did it and never wavered in your efforts. I know how much sacrifice it took to keep Mom and us safe while raising and feeding your own family during those years. When World War II started, you had to work even harder as food was being rationed. You did a lot of creative shopping and managed to keep our large family fed. Your strength and love made us

Sister act brightens history at Anna Maria museum By amy V.t. moriarty islander reporter

It took three months and several cans of teal paint for two sisters to revive the porch at Belle Haven Cottage. They’re loving the challenge and the time spent together. Built in 1920 on the Anna Maria City Pier, the cottage fell into the water in 1926. It was pulled from the bay and served as a family home for 50 years, before being relocated to the Anna Maria Island Historical Society Museum grounds, 402 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. to avoid demolition. The cottage was restored in 2006. And more than a decade ago, Gary Fenstemaker and Bob Kelly carved the names of the AMIHS supporters who donated to the restoration fund that created a walkway of wooden planks at the cottage porch. But in the years since, the salt air took its toll and faded the names. Enter Holmes Beach resident Deborah Sneddon and her sister, Patricia Rod of Bradenton. In March, AMIHS president Liz Hager thought

adding paint to the carved names would be a great way to restore the planks and continue to honor donors. And she knew the sisters, who are historical society volunteers, were just the people to get it done. “We think it’s important to remember folks who have contributed to AMI. It’s our little effort in loving it like a local,” Sneddon wrote in an email to The Islander. Using a bright teal paint, the sisters worked on hands and knees, painting the letters over a couple of months, completing the project at the end of May. They both laughed about the “hard labor” on a recent visit to The Islander office. Sneddon and Rod also occasionally volunteer for newspaper, sorting and organizing historical files.

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. Submit obituary and photo to news@ islander.org. Islander 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

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

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June 16, 2021 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 15 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

HB reverses, approves $22.5K donation to community center By ryan Paice islander reporter

Public backlash led the Holmes Beach City Commission to reverse its decision to deny funding for the Center of Anna Maria Island. City commissioners voted 4-1 June 8 to approve a $22,500 donation to the community center, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria, that the board previously shot down in May. Commission Chair Jim Kihm voted “no.” The commission’s May 11 3-2 vote to withhold the donation drew a litany of backlash, including from Manatee County Commissioner Kevin Van Ostenbridge, who wrote to Mayor Judy Titsworth, asking her to revisit the matter. Titsworth opened the June 8 discussion by referring to the city’s comprehensive plan, which states the “city shall take into consideration” contributions to the center due to its unique recreational offerings that the city does not provide. During public comment, a pair of island residents urged commissioners to approve the contribution. The Rev. Ed Moss of Crosspointe Fellowship and an Anna Maria resident said he frequents the nonprofit and questioned commissioners on their personal issues with center staff. Holmes Beach resident Dave Leising said the city’s residents comprise around half of the nonprofit’s membership, illustrating its importance to the community. He said he visits the center regularly to socialize with other members and participate in fitness classes. “It’s the only community center on Anna Maria Island and I think we should continue to support it,” Leising said. In addition to the center, there is a small nonprofit social center for adults — the Annie Silver Community Center — in Bradenton Beach. Commissioner Carol Soustek, who voted in favor of the donation in May, said she was impressed with the nonprofit’s success in recent years and urged fellow board members to approve the contribution. “We have an opportunity to enrich peoples’ lives,” Soustek said. Kihm, who voted against the donation in May, said he would continue to oppose funding to the center. He said the city’s comp plan does not require them to donate to the center if it provides recreational offerings in other ways. He said the city provides sufficient recreational offerings at city field to justify ending donations to the nonprofit. Kihm added that the city has contributed around $530,000 to the center over the past 20 years. Commissioner Jayne Christenson, who also voted against the donation in May, echoed Kihm’s sentiments and said donations are best left to residents to make for themselves.

Center increases member fees, plans upgrades The Center of Anna Maria Island is increasing its fitness offerings heading into fiscal year 2021-22. Membership fees are set to rise, too. Jillian Ptak, the center’s customer service director, wrote an email June 8 to The Islander announcing the nonprofit plans a small increase to membership fees across the board to pay for upgraded fitness equipment, classes and facilities. The nonprofit’s planned improvements for the next fiscal year — which begins July 1 — include: • Upgrading fitness equipment, including purchase of Peloton exercycles; • Renovating open-air fitness room and adding new showers and bathrooms; • Adding fitness classes and workshops, including kickboxing and teen fitness. At the same time, monthly membership rates are set to increase from $21 per month to $25 per month for youths, from $45 per month to $55 per month for adults, from $42.50 per month to $50 per month for seniors and from $105 per month to $120 per month for families. “We hope you think the additional programs, facilities upgrades and equipment justify the nominal increase in membership rates,” Ptak wrote.

“We support the center individually and I encourage everyone else to do so as well,” she said. However, Christenson ultimately voted in favor of the donation. She did not explain her decision. Commissioner Kim Rash, who also voted against the donation in May, said he’d received numerous emails from concerned residents that led him to reconsider and reverse his position. He said the city had

People with questions can call the nonprofit at 941-778-1908 or visit centerami.org. — ryan Paice

improved its recreational offerings, but not enough to deny funding to the center. “It opened up my eyes to how many people in Holmes Beach go up there and use the center,” Rash said. “Sometimes you get a wake-up call.” Commissioner Terry Schaefer moved to approve the donation. Soustek seconded the motion, which passed.

Late bloomer, night-blooming cereus

Jim Harwood’s night-blooming cereus, outside his anna maria pOp from Page 14 office in late may, is pictured above, while tina fusaro all feel secure. I watched how you treated your friends. You helped chiles recorded a bloom in June at the Studio at gulf and so many of them. People would come to our door to thank you. You Pine in anna maria.

were so kind and generous to all of them. Many of them would tell me what a great man you were. Pop, my love for you and your goodness grows each day. Thank you for all you did. Shakespeare must have had you in mind when he wrote, “His life was gentle, and the elements so mixed in him that nature might stand up and say to all the world, ‘This was a man.’”

People exercise June 2 in an indoor cycling class at the center of anna maria island, 407 magnolia ave., anna maria. islander Photo: courtesy cofami

the species — Hylocereus undatus, also know as Queen of the night, Pitaya and Honolulu Queen — is found in tropical areas and usually blooms one night a year. it is found most often clinging to a cabbage palm tree. the large white blossoms wilt by noon the next day. according to traditional chinese medicine, the blossoms can be made into a tasty soup — Ba Wong fa — known to treat respiratory illness.

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Page 16 THE ISLANDER | islander.org June 16, 2021 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Walkers plead for improvements to Coquina Beach trail By Kelsey mako islander reporter

Take caution! Hazardous trail ahead. Bradenton Beach resident Paul Curtis has concerns about safety on the Coquina Beach multiuse trail in Bradenton Beach. Curtis said the asphalt surface is worn, uneven or nonexistent, creating tripping hazards. He blamed patchwork repairs for the asphalt trail, as well as pine tree roots that have broken up the surface. The trail, maintained by Manatee County, extends from Fifth Street South in Bradenton Beach to Longboat Pass. Curtis told The Islander June 7 that he tripped on the path about two weeks ago and had to take a week’s break from his walking routine. Another daily walker, Barbie Gummin of Bradenton’s Perico Island, said she has tripped twice. “The people who do walk the trail and who do live here, live in paradise. Here’s paradise, but why is this such a problem?” she asked June 11. “This is not what you expect in paradise.” Red markings indicate tripping hazards on the path but Curtis said more needs to be done. “I know I speak for the daily walkers, joggers and bicyclists who would like to see this amenity brought up to code,” he said. Gummin agreed that something needs to be done,

People rest June 7 near Longboat Pass and make use of the coquina Beach multipurpose path. islander Photos: Kelsey mako

and she’s also proposing a trail with separate lanes for pedestrians and bikers. She also said she talked to an engineer who suggested digging up each side of the trail and putting a rubber barrier down so roots could not get through. Recently, improvements have been made at Coquina Beach, including to lifeguard stands, changing areas and the parking lots. But Curtis said those improvements are mostly for visitors whereas improvements to the path would

Barbie gummin stops to talk on her June 7 walk on the coquina Beach trail.

benefit locals. He has been walking the trail for 10 years. During that time, no major repairs beyond patchwork were made and, over the past five years, the path has deteriorated, he said. Neither Manatee County parks and natural resources director Charlie Hunsicker nor Manatee County information outreach manager Nicholas Azzara responded to Islander inquiries.

Bradenton Beach shuttle ridership up, ad revenue increases 737 rides in May, Easy Parking Group owner Joshua LaRose said June 2. Ridership is up on the Old Town Tram. The tram services the Bridge Street district, The number of tram rides in May was 4,393, up extending north to the police station, east to the Hisfrom 3,998 in April. toric Bridge Street Pier, south from the post office and Additionally, ridership from beaches is up, totaling west to Cortez Beach. The service, established by the Bradenton Beach Community Redevelopment Agency to ease traffic congestion and open parking in the CRA district, also serves the beaches farther south in the city, such as Coquina Beach, if requested. During a meeting June 2, CRA members reviewed ridership numbers, revenues and expenses and asked questions. The contribution from advertisers on the tram will be $5,175 per month after signs from the three businesses get placed. LaRose said the contribution from advertisers covers about 65% of expenses. When the allocated spaces are full, he estimates 85%-90% of expenses will be covered. City Commissioner Jan Vosburgh, who serves along with other commissioners and two citizen members on the CRA board, asked how advertising can be boosted to cover 100% of the tram expenses. The monthly cost for the tram service is $8,000$9,000. LaRose said the service needs to keep reaching out to businesses. In addition to advertising support, the tram is old town tram driver Bob connelly, standing underwritten by the CRA, which supports projects rear, prepares June 9 to shuttle passengers clint focused on growth, restoration and tourism in the CRA Hatmaker, back seat, Bruce mcKee, front seat, district. and michael Kendall, standing, on Bridge Street. Other questions from the CRA board included islander Photo: Kelsey mako By Kelsey mako islander reporter

BB commissioners raise parking concerns By Kelsey mako islander reporter

Bradenton Beach city commissioners unanimously voted June 3 to direct city staff to draft an ordinance regulating the expansion of commercial uses in public parking areas. Commissioners raised concerns that some local businesses were using public parking spaces for storage, as well as parking golf carts overnight on city property, characterizing the development as a merchant parking dilemma. Mayor John Chappie said the concern with storage in the parking areas focuses on city hall, 107 Gulf Drive N. There’s also a concern at the post office, 116 Bridge St., where the city has an agreement to allow the public to use post office parking after post office hours, Chappie said. The city can regulate the after-hours parking but

how consistent the route is and whether shifts were missed. CRA board members said they have seen the tram off its route — north of Cortez Road on Gulf Drive. LaRose said the tram may go off route because a tram employee might need a ride or passengers change their destinations. He added that tram drivers refer passengers whose destination is off the tram’s route to the fare-free island trolley operated by Manatee County Area Transit or the privately operated Monkey Bus. In terms of missing shifts, LaRose said there were a few issues that caused shifts to be missed but a lack of employees was not one of them. He cited vehicle repairs, including the need to replace a motor and more than 20 tires, as well as electrical issues. LaRose added that the CRA was not charged for any missed shifts. The tram operates 11 a.m.-4 p.m., 5 p.m.-10 p.m. Monday-Saturday and 11 a.m.-4 p.m., 5 p.m.-9 p.m. Sunday.

the west side of the post office parking lot on Bridge Street in Bradenton Beach has dedicated spaces for golf carts and smaller low-speed vehicles. islander Photo: Kelsey mako

does not have the authority to tow, the mayor added. Other public parking includes parallel parking spaces on Bridge Street, spaces near the Historic Bridge Street Pier, spaces at the end of Bay Drive South near the Bridge Tender Inn and spaces on the west side of Gulf Drive near the Moose Lodge. Merchant parking issues occasionally occur in these areas as well, Chappie said. “That’s for our residents, visitors and customers in commercial areas in the Bradenton Beach Bridge Street area,” Chappie said, referring to the public parking areas. City code does not allow parking in municipal lots midnight-6 a.m., according to Municode.com. In terms of city property being used for commercial use, Bradenton Beach Police Lt. John Cosby said there is nothing on the books to regulate using public parking for merchant storage, but commissioners could cones block parking spaces at the post office, 116 Bridge St., Bradenton Beach. create a city policy.

June 16, 2021 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 17 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

HB calls for help to handle algal blooms, county declines

not authorize the release of the polluted wastewater — that decision was made by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection. However, the county led the emergency response. Mayor Judy Titsworth said she’d reached out to county staff and state officials seeking help removing the algae and had a meeting scheduled with county staff the week beginning June 14. “The bay is sick — the sickest it’s ever been,” Titsworth said. “We’re looking at what can be done. … But I’m concerned this is going to be a whole summerlong event.” County administrator Dr. Scott Hopes told The Islander June 11 that he didn’t believe Piney Point was the cause of the worsening algal blooms. Hopes also said county staff were focused on removing the gumbo mats from the bay and local ports, so it couldn’t assist the city in cleaning its waterways. However, he said the county would offer guidance. “It’s pretty much Holmes Beach’s problem,” Hopes said. “We’re dealing with our parks just like they should deal with their residential canals.” “I wish that the problem I’m dealing with was as easy to solve as theirs,” he added.

assistance from Manatee County in removing Lyngbya mats from local waters since nutrients from polluted A call for help from Holmes Beach to Manatee wastewater from the Piney Point phosphate site may County officials is apparently being ignored. have accelerated growth. But this year’s crop of Lyngbya — a blue-green Lyngbya, a naturally occurring algae in Southwest algae bloom — might require help cleaning up. Florida waters that forms mats on the surface and can Holmes Beach officials agreed June 8 to seek prevent sunlight from reaching seagrasses, releases toxins that can harm wildlife and, as it decomposes, emits an unpleasant odor, according to the University of Florida’s Center for Aquatic and Invasive Plants. Holmes Beach Commissioner Carol Soustek said residents approached her seeking the city’s help with handling the Lyngbya, known locally as gumbo, that is clogging local waterways and residential canals. She called for the city to take action. “I went to Key Royale this morning and looked at the bay and it was stinking up to high heaven,” Soustek said. “We have algae out there that’s terrible and nobody can tell me Piney Point is not part of that problem.” “I would hope there would be some effort to communicate to the county that … they bear some responsibility in regard to its mediation,” Commissioner Terry Schaefer said. Manatee County does not own Piney Point and did By ryan Paice islander reporter

an aerial photo of an event at anna maria city Pier Park, 103 n. Bay Blvd. shows, shaded in yellow, the area where a playground will be installed. islander courtesy Photo: city of anna maria

Water in the basin at Waterline resort in Holmes Beach has a green tinge June 10 from Lyngbya, a blue-green algae. city commissioners discussed the issue June 8, calling for assistance from manatee county to handle the blooms, saying the polluted wastewater released from the Piney Point phosphate site may have accelerated Lyngbya’s seasonal growth. islander Photo: ryan Paice

Red tide persists in region

A patchy bloom of the red tide organism, Karenia brevis, persists in Southwest Florida. The week ending June 13, K. brevis was detected in 81 samples, including at background to medium concentrations in 28 samples from Manatee County. K. brevis also was observed at low to medium concentrations in Pinellas County, low to medium concentrations in Hillsborough County, background concentrations in Sarasota County, background to medium concentrations in Lee County, background to medium concentrations in Collier County and low concentrations offshore of Monroe County. Fish kills suspected to be related to red tide were reported in Pinellas, Manatee, Lee and Collier counties. Fish kills in Manatee were reported from Palmetto, Bradenton and Terra Ceia Bay. Respiratory irritation suspected to be related to red tide was reported in Pinellas County. For more, go to myfwc.com/research/redtide.

By amy V.t. moriarty islander reporter

Anna Maria’s commissioners voted unanimously June 10 in favor of spending $30,909 to erect a playground at City Pier Park. The designated 62-by-40-foot playground will consist of a swingset, slide and merry-go-round, with a layer of rubber mulch under and around the equipment. Commissioner Mark Short commented about the sparsity of the equipment, sparking a discussion that elicited a suggestion for a pickleball court by former planning and zoning board member Dr. Carl Pearman. Commissioner Joe Muscatello suggested a court for lawn bowling. In the end, the commission agreed the plan as presented by city clerk LeAnne Addy was a good start. Mayor Dan Murphy said it was more important to get the project started and add later. For eight years, the park was vacant while plans were worked and reworked, Murphy said. Then a rest-

Ginny’s

Jane E’s

room, flagpole and shade sails. Concerned about the possibility of a child wandering away toward water, commissioners requested fencing around the play area. A groundbreaking date was not set but as the project was budgeted for the 2021 fiscal year, it likely will be before Sept. 30.

BB dredge project continues

Waterway improvements in Bradenton Beach are on schedule despite some challenges. A strong current and low tides prevented dredging in some areas of the Coquina Channel. The project — to improve navigation — should be completed by August. Duncan Seawall, Dock and Boat Lift is doing the dredging, and has subcontracted AquaTech Eco Consultants for seagrass mitigation to offset the effects of dredging. The price is $925,485. AquaTech owner Beau Williams said the seagrass mitigation awaits more dredge work. — Kelsey mako

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Page 18 THE ISLANDER | islander.org June 16, 2021 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

nesting notes By Kelsey Mako

1st shorebird nests observed

Anna Maria Island beach monitors turned their attention to least turns this month, as the first shorebird nests of the season were spotted. A colony of least terns nested on Anna Maria Island the week of June 1. The colony included 18 nests and more than 60 individual birds as of June 10 and was found by Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring volunteer Kathy Doddridge. mako The location of the colony was not disclosed because the area still must be marked off to protect the nests, Doddridge said. The colony is the first on the island since 2015 or 2016, added Doddridge, also a member of the Manatee County Audubon Society. Additionally, the colony is the largest least tern colony the island has seen in 15-20 years, executive director of AMITW Suzi Fox said June 9. “You usually hear them before you see them,” Doddridge said June 9, referring to how she found the colony. When she first came across the nesting birds, there were four nests. AMITW is a nonprofit that collects data on sea turtles and shorebirds. The Audubon chapter aims to protect birds by creating an awareness of and sense of appreciation for the birds. Doddridge said the least terns possibly returned because of a beach renourishment project completed in 2020. When sand is softer, it is easier for least terns to scrape and lay eggs, she said. Scrapes are shallow holes dug for nests. “If you build, they will come,” Fox added. Doddridge said a colony nested at Lido Key in Sarasota but was attacked by predators. She added that some of the birds on Anna Maria Island could be from that group. Fox said a prior lack of nesting colonies was human-related, as cats and crows are predators of least

a male least tern comes in with a fish June 3 to feed a female least tern, which is typical mating behavior. islander Photos: courtesy Kathy doddridge

terns and human behavior brings them to the beach. Keeping cats indoors and covering garbage to keep away crows are important for keeping least terns safe, she said. Fox also urged people to stay away from the nests to prevent a flush, which is when birds scatter from their nesting area. When a flush occurs, predators can more easily eat eggs. “We need to make certain that we are protecting the very things that bring people to Anna Maria Island,” Fox said. Additionally, because least terns lay their eggs near the top of the sand, eggs blend in with the sand. Doddridge said volunteers will stake out the colony to prevent people from accidently stepping on nests. Volunteers also will put up barriers for birds to hide from predators, as well as educate people on the beaches about least terns. Least terns are an endangered species. According to the North American Bird Breeding Survey, least tern populations declined by 88% 1966-2015. Doddridge said least tern eggs take about 21 days to hatch. After hatching, hatchlings find hiding places. Least terns fly 19-20 days after hatching and remain in nests 2-3 months after that, according to the National Audubon Society website.

two least tern eggs blend into the sand the week of June 6.

American oystercatchers, black skimmers and snowy plovers also have nested on Anna Maria Island but no nests have been spotted on the island this season. “I would have expected all of these birds to have nested by now,” Doddridge said. For more about shorebirds, go online to islandturtlewatch.com or manateeaudubon.org.

as of June 13, amitW had identified 129 nests and 165 false crawls on the island.

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One study from the Oak Ridge National Laboratory concluded that a burner on a gas grill emits about 5.6 pounds of carbon dioxide per hour contrasted with 11 pounds per hour from cooking over charcoal. An argument could be made for using all-natural, lump charcoal, which lacks additives and, made from wood, is a renewable energy source. But the easy-to-use instant briquettes release volatile organic compounds and particulate matter into the air, as well as ground-level ozone. They’re made of sawdust, starch, borax, petroleum solvents and sodium nitrate. They’re no-nos. So we’ll get cooking with propane, as well as reduce waste by ditching disposables in favor of reusable cutlery, plates and glassware — and buy in season. Now, does anyone know where to find locally sourced marshmallows?

By Lisa Neff

Firing up for Father’s Day

On Mom’s holiday, we picnicked in a field of wildflowers at Myakka River State Park. She said: Pâte, please. On Dad’s day June 20, we’ll fire up the grill in the park. He prefers barbecued brisket with a side of steak. So Father’s Day will involve turning up the heat for his protein of choice, corn on the cob, roasted potatoes, seared asparagus and, to finish neff on a sweet note, s’mores. And we’ll do our best to green the cookout. My dad is not what I would call a tree-hugger but he sends money to the World Wildlife Fund and Sierra Club. He grew up on a small farm in western Illinois, where he learned to appreciate what nature can provide and to love his land. There was a charcoal grill outside the farmhouse where he grew up and where I visited as a kid during school breaks. Some nights, we roasted hot dogs and toasted marshmallows over the charcoal flames. In the back yard of my childhood home, we had a big enough gas grill to cook hot dogs for the high school football team that my dad coached. In the preseason, after morning practice, the players and coaches

Seagrass sighters sought Summer is the season for firing up the grill or stoking the campfire and making s’mores. the classic mix is graham crackers, marshmallow and a chocolate bar but a family favorite is the elvis Presleyinspired s’mackers: graham crackers, peanut butter cup, marshmallow and banana slices. islander courtesy Photo

gathered in the back yard for lunch — chips, dogs, salads, fruit and soda pop. Two grills lasted my entire childhood but my parents are on their fourth grill in 15 years after buying their winter-spring condo on the Gulf coast. On Father’s Day, we’ll be lighting my portable, propane-fueled camping grill at a local park. I prefer propane to charcoal because it burns cleaner and more efficiently.

Sarasota Bay plan getting 5-year update The Sarasota Bay Estuary Program is updating a five-year management plan for Sarasota Bay and inviting public comment. The draft plan — more than 200 pages — can be downloaded from sarasotabay.org, where people also will find a link to comment through July 31. SBEP is one of 28 individual programs in the National Estuary Program, which was established in

1987 by Congress to restore and protect estuaries of significant importance. The regional program is in its final stage of updating it’s the plan, which establishes priorities for activities, research and management of the estuary through 2026. The CCMP serves as a blueprint to guide future decisions and actions and addresses a range of environmental protection issues in four sections: water quality and quantity, watershed habitats, fish and wildlife and community engagement. — Lisa neff

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You can read it all online at islander.org

Will you survey for seagrass in Sarasota Bay? The Sarasota Bay Estuary Program is seeking citizen scientists to participate in “Eyes on Seagrass,” a two-week campaign to survey seagrass beds in July. SBEP, in a call for volunteers, stated, “Water conditions and the health of seagrass beds in the Sarasota Bay area have been changing rapidly and there is a pressing need to gather more information about the amount of algae growing in our bays.” While algae is a natural part of the ecosystem, changing conditions can cause algae to grow out of control, damaging marine habitats. “Eye on Seagrass” volunteers will monitor macro algae by snorkeling in an assigned area, estimating the coverage of seagrass and macro algae and collecting samples. Volunteers of all levels of experience are welcome. The survey will take place July 12-24, with training provided. Volunteers will need: a team of two, masks and snorkels, GPS-capable smartphone and either a kayak, paddleboard or boat. Training will be 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Monday, June 28, Blackburn Park, 800 Blackburn Point Road, Osprey; 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Tuesday, June 29, at Ken Thompson Park, 1700 Ken Thompson Parkway, Sarasota; and on Anna Maria Island 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Wednesday, June 30, at the South Coquina Bayside Boat Ramp in Bradenton Beach. Registration is taking place online using Google Docs. For more information, go online to sarasotabay. org. — Lisa neff

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Page 20 THE ISLANDER | islander.org June 16, 2021 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Playoffs underway in adult soccer at center pitch By Kevin P. Cassidy Islander Reporter

Quarterfinal playoff action kicked off June 10 in the adult soccer league at the Center of Anna Maria Island. Flynn Law took on Sandbar Restaurant and came away with a 3-1 victory. Eric Pullen and Zoran Kolega both had a goal and an assist to lead Flynn Law, which also received a goal from Damir Glavan and four saves from goalie Mark Long in the Cassidy victory. Darrin Wash cherry-picked the Sandbar goal and goalie Kevin Mulcahy made nine saves in the loss. No. 8 seed Salty Printing and No. 1 Beach Bums battled to a 3-3 tie in regulation, but Salty nailed the upset in overtime to eliminate the previously unbeaten Bums. Gerardo Urbiola scored two goals and Kevin Roman added one to lead Salty Printing, which received 10 saves from Matt Marshall in the victory. Lucky Durmaz scored three goals to lead Beach Bums, which received an assist from Emily Fischer and five saves from Tuna McCracken. The third match of the night saw CABB cruise to a 9-1 victory over Sato Real Estate behind four goals from Timo Vechio and two goals from Luca Vechio. Lindsey Styka, Tim Robertson and Greg Moss added a goal each and Connor Haughey came through with eight saves in the victory. Rico Beissert scored the lone goal for Sato, which received five saves in the loss from Mark Rudacille. The last match of the night saw Slim’s Place edge Killer Bait 5-3 behind two goals each from Keith Mahoney and Daniel Adan. Osvaldo Cabello added a goal and Steve Oelfke made four saves to help preserve the victory. Chris Scott and Ethan Hampton each had a goal and an assist to lead Killer Bait, which received a goal from Chris Culhane and six saves from Ryan Moss in the loss. The season will conclude Thursday, June 17, with

Flynn Law’s Zoran Kolega tries to get past Sandbar defender Andrew Sullivan June 10 during quarterfinal soccer action in the center’s adult soccer league. The semimatches and finals will be played June 17 at the center pitch. Islander Photos: Kevin P. Cassidy

semifinal action kicking off at 6:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., Steve Vasbinder combined on a 3-under-par 29 June followed by the championship game at 9 p.m. 10 to win club’s nine-hole shamble. Second place went to the team of Fred Miller, Scott Mitchell, Tom Nelson Key Royale golf news and Gary Razze on 1-under-par 31. There was a full week of golf action at the Key Royale Club in Holmes Beach starting June 7, with the Horseshoe news men’s nine-hole modified-Stableford system match. Two teams emerged from pool play and settled Tom Nelson carded an impressive plus-7 to grab things in a playoff during horseshoe action at the Anna clubhouse bragging rights for the day. Jerry Martinek Maria City Hall horseshoe pits. was two points back in second place. The team of Bob Hawks and Rod Bussey outlasted The women played a nine-hole individual-low-net Bob Heiger 21-15 to take the title for the day. match in two flights June 8. There was no need for playoffs at the June 12 Sue Wheeler fired a 3-under-par 29 to grab first games. Bussey, this time teamed up with Gary Howplace in Flight A by three strokes over second-place croft, forged the lone 3-0 pool-play record to become finisher Jana Samuels. Helen Pollock, Roxanne Koche the day’s outright champs. and Jennie Huibers tied for third at 2-over-par 34. Play gets underway at 9 a.m. Wednesdays and Janet Razze took first place in Flight B with an Saturdays at the Anna Maria City Hall pits. Warmups even-par 32. Terry Westby took second place with begin at 8:45 a.m., followed by random team seleca 2-over-par 34, while Sue Christenson was another tion. stroke back in third. There is no charge to play and everyone is welThe team of Herb Clauhs, Ken Nagengast and come.

FWC finds no evidence of pelican abuse at Skyway Fishing Pier By Kane Kaiman Islander Reporter

Abuse doesn’t fit the bill. Reports made in mid-February of “scalped” pelicans at the Sunshine Skyway Fishing Pier sparked outrage and ramped up tensions between fisher and bird rescue groups, but a Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission investigation found no evidence of intentional abuse. The investigation, which included 416.5 hours of patrol work at the pier over 45 days, was spearheaded by FWC Officer William Freemon. “Based on the interviews, evidence, and information gathered to date, I find it unlikely an individual or group of individuals were intentionally causing harm to brown pelicans at the South Skyway Fishing Pier,” Freemon wrote in the investigation report finalized May 25. “During the investigation, the FWC did not establish any credible leads, evidence, motives or suspects from past incidents involving injured brown pelicans,”

he said. Rebecca Schneider, an FWC regional species conservation biologist, assisted with the investigation and consulted with wildlife rehabilitators and pelican researchers about possible explanations for the “scalped” patterns on the pelicans’ heads. The explanations included blunt force trauma from pelicans diving into structure, lacerations from fishing line, injuries from other pelicans and cuts from boat propellers and oyster shells. Freemon and Schneider agreed that natural causes were a more likely explanation than intentional harm. During the investigation, Freemon interviewed Liz Vrelander, a contracted Skyway Fishing Pier pelican rescuer, who said she had seen similar injuries to pelicans since 2008. The investigation’s initial complainant was Jeanette Edwards, founder of Friends of the Pelicans, a nonprofit seabird rescue group that hired the rescuer

please, see Pelican, next page

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A Friends of the Pelicans volunteer holds a pelican with a “scalped” wound pattern on the FOTP Facebook page Feb. 6. The image is included in an FWC investigation report obtained June 10 by The Islander. Islander Screenshot

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June 16, 2021 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 21 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Fishing offshore Gulf, inshore AMI hotter than June temps By Capt. Danny Stasny Islander Reporter

Fishing offshore in the Gulf of Mexico is keeping Anna Maria anglers on plenty of fish. Offshore captains David White and Jason Stock are boasting of some of the best offshore fishing occurring in June. Stock is limiting out daily on American red snapper — as is White. And, with the wind finally subsiding, both predict the bite to get better as the days in June proceed. Gag Stasny grouper are being caught frequently, as well as mangrove and yellowtail snappers. If you’re looking for a fish dinner, this is the bite to be on. But, you better act quickly, as booking a trip with these captains is in high demand. Other catches offshore include black grouper and wahoo. Both species are tougher to come by in our area of the Gulf, but we can never know what will happen out there, so don’t miss your chance to cash in. Inshore, the bite is equally good, although you’ll need to find areas of clean water, free of Lyngbya or gumbo if you plan on finding the action. Snook, spotted seatrout and redfish are reacting nicely to offerings of live shiners as bait. Slow-moving tides and clean water are the recipe for success. Snook remain catch-and-release in our region, so when you hook one, handle it with care. It’s their spawning time. If you’re hungry for a fish dinner, mangrove snapper and Spanish mackerel are being found around structure in Tampa Bay, as well as in the Gulf of Mexico. Small shiners — hatch bait — are beginning to show on the flats. If you target snapper, you know that the Pelican from page 20

starting in October 2020. The group encountered 20 pelicans with the wound pattern in January and February. Edwards, who lives near Anna Maria Island, maintained people were to blame for the injuries. Two seabird rehabilitators bolstered her claim, saying the injuries looked too precise to be natural. Edwards initially advocated for closing the pier at night, when she believed the abuse was taking place, but later changed her stance. The prospect of pier closure and inflammatory reports, opinions and social media increased tension between fishers and Friends of the Pelicans on the pier — at the mouth of Tampa Bay in Manatee County. At a June 8 meeting, Manatee County Commissioners discussed the plight of pelicans on the pier. At the time of the discussion, the pelican abuse investigation report had not been released. Commissioner Carol Whitmore added the issue to the meeting agenda the week prior, citing an email from FOTP that said, “over 800 birds or more last year were caught, and most of them hanging from trees, dead or floating, starving to death because they couldn’t use their wings.” “We just can’t keep letting this happen,” Whitmore said.

Anna Maria Island Tides

Date

June 16 June17 June18 June19 June20 June21 June22 June23

HIGH

6:32a 7:01a 7:31a 8:02a 8:35a 9:09a 9:46a 1:06a

1.6 1.7 1.8 2.0 2.2 2.5 2.7 1.5

4:05p 5:24p 6:56p 8:35p 10:10p 11:40p — 10:26a

HIGH

2.2 9:56a 2.0 11:36a 1.8 12:37a 1.6 1:22a 1.5 2:04a 1.5 2:41a — 3:12a 2.9 3:37a

LOW

1.4 11:49p 1.2 — 0.2 1:08p 0.5 2:28p 0.7 3:37p 1.0 4:39p 1.2 5:37p 1.3 6:31p

LOW

Moon

0.0 — 1.0 1st 0.7 0.3 -0.1 -0.4 -0.6

Chris Mann, 16, visiting Longboat Key from Ohio, shows off a gag grouper caught June 11 on a charter trip with Capt. Warren Girle. Mann and his group fished the nearshore waters of the Gulf of Mexico on his most recent trip to the Gulf coast. He and his mates had good weather and used shiners for bait.

hatch bait is like candy to them. In the weeks to come, we should even start seeing the snapper on the flats — they can’t resist feeding on these tender young baits. On my own charters, I’m seeing plenty of catchand-release snook being reeled out of the mangroves. Casting baits among the roots of the mangroves is luring hungry snook out of their hiding places to snack on unsuspecting shiners. I’m also seeing redfish mixed in with this bite, which is encouraging. Moving to deeper grass flats is resulting in plenty of keeper-size trout and numerous fish exceeding 20 inches. Limits of slot-sized fish are being hooked and, lucky for my anglers, many more are being released after a limit is obtained. For anglers who wish to have a fish dinner, mangrove snapper are the popular choice. Fishing structure in Tampa Bay is proving to be good for these tasty fish. While targeting the snapper, I’m seeing my clients hooking into Spanish mackerel, big jack crevalle and juvenile gag grouper. Stock is targeting tarpon with the sport fishers along the beaches of Anna Maria Island. Fish in the 100-pound range have been hooked on most of his tarpon trips. And, with the tarpon come the sharks. Stock is seeing plenty of bull sharks in the area, as well as large hammerheads. Sometimes among the bulls, Stock is spotting cobia nearby. These fish are readily responding to live shiners or thread fins as bait. Casting over the backs of the sharks is triggering the cobia to break away and eat the bait. This is a really fun way to catch Cobia. Trust me. Moving offshore, Stock is enjoying the opening of American red snapper season. Limits of the tasty fish are being caught as Stock’s clients get to put their arm muscles to the test. Also in the mix, while fishing offshore, are mangrove and yellowtail snapper. Lastly, for entertainment, Stock is hooking into goliath grouper, which is quite a crowd-pleaser for his clients. After being photographed, these fish are gently revived and released to eat someone else’s bait. White also is finding plenty of action while working offshore in the Gulf of Mexico. And, if you plan on fishing with White, you’d better make sure you condition your arm muscles because you’ll be pulling on some large fish. To start, White is introducing his clients to American red snapper. These highly aggressive snapper are

not only unequaled on the plate but put up a fierce battle when hooked and reeled up from depths of 100 feet or more. And, when they’re in the 25-pound range — like the ones White is catching — they require stamina on the angler’s part. Also being caught offshore are gag and black grouper, which equally demand respect. Moving inshore, White is finding redfish and spotted seatrout on the flats, as well as numerous catch-andrelease snook. Casting baits along mangrove shorelines is proving to be good for these species. Lastly, fishing structure in Tampa Bay is resulting in mangrove snapper and Spanish mackerel. Capt. Warren Girle is finding a good backwater bite while working the tranquil waters of Sarasota Bay. Fishing over deeper grass flats during swift tides results in many spotted seatrout for his clients and a mix of jack crevalle and Spanish mackerel. Moving close to the edges of the bay — where mangroves and oyster bars exist — is proving to be good for catch-and-release snook and redfish. All species are responding to live shiners as bait. On days when he’s not fishing the flats, Girle is patrolling the beaches of Anna Maria Island and Longboat Key for tarpon. Most catches are falling 100120 pounds, with bigger fish being hooked by lucky anglers. Casting baits ahead of schooling fish is resulting in a bite. Live crabs or threadfin herring are the bait of choice for the silver kings. Capt. Aaron Lowman is putting clients on snook along the mangrove shorelines of Tampa Bay. Moving tides and clean water are imperative to finding this famous backwater fighter. Casting live shiners is resulting in fish 20-30 inches. Spotted seatrout are biting on Lowman’s bay trips. Areas of lush grass and depths of 2-7 feet are producing the best action. Again, the best bite is occurring during swift tides and clean water. Nearshore in the Gulf of Mexico, Lowman is finding gag grouper and Spanish mackerel over artificial reefs and other structure. Lastly, fishing the evening outgoing tides for tarpon is working well for Lowman and his sport anglers. Live crabs or threadfin herring as bait is proving to work the best. Send high-resolution photos and fishing reports to fish@islander.org.

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

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Page 22 THE ISLANDER | islander.org June 16, 2021 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

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County approves tourist funding for BB pier project By amy V.t. moriarty islander reporter

Anna Maria Island is a step closer to harboring a water taxi. Manatee County commissioners June 8 green-lighted a request from Bradenton Beach for funding to add about 20 finger docks to the Historic Bridge Street Pier, 200 Bridge St. The funding, utilizing tourist tax dollars, would match up to $850,000 from the city, Elliott Falcione, executive director of the Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau, told the county board.. Falcione liaises with city officials, the Manatee County Tourist Development Council and county commissioners regarding tourist development projects. Tourist tax dollars are raised from a 5% bed tax on accommodations of six months or less and directed by the TDC for county commission approval. The project includes: • Constructing finger docks to accommodate up to 27 vessels and a water taxi service; • Rebuilding the city dinghy dock; • Establishing a shuttle access terminal and signage to service people arriving by boat. County commissioners voiced their enthusiasm for the project. “To me, this is what the tourist tax is about,” said Commissioner Carol Whitmore, a Holmes Beach resident who serves one of two at-large districts on the board. “We’re real excited about this opportunity to once again partner with Manatee County and use tourist tax dollars for this worthwhile project,” Chappie told The Islander June 9. The city’s financial contribution will cover items that may not fall within the guidelines for use of tourist tax dollars. The money will come from the city’s community reinvestment agency. Chappie said in May the city selected a project

bid from Cortez-based Duncan Seawall, Dock and Boat Lift. “We wanted to be shovel-ready,” he said. Commissioners, however, questioned spending tourist dollars on Amy V.T. Moriarty a Holmes Beach project. “I just want someone to convince Looking for a few good members The Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce is me this is tourist-related, this seawall,” Whitmore recruiting. said. They add members every month, so what makes The former Holmes Beach mayor was referring to a $283,000 funding request to reimburse the city for a this annual effort special? The incentive offered to members who bring in seawall along Marina Drive. A representative from Holmes Beach was not at new members in June and July will be entered into a the meeting, but in an April presentation to the TDC, drawing for free base membership in 2022. The Islander caught up with chamber president Mayor Judy Titsworth said she learned from Falcione that bike paths must connect to parks or other tourist- Terri Kinder June 8 and she told us chamber staff is visiting businesses to drum up more members. related areas to qualify for funding. Though high season is winding down as we head Titsworth instead sought reimbursement for a seawall so the city could use its funding for the bike paths, into summer, Kinder said, “we’re still very busy out here.” Falcione told county commissioners. For more information, go online to annamariais“I’m actually surprised bike lanes don’t qualify,” landchamber.org or call 941-778-1541. at-large Commissioner George Kruse said. Whitmore was concerned about precedent for sea- Preparing for the worst, hoping for the best The Longboat Key Chamber of Commerce will wall repairs under the guise of tourist development. She said if Holmes Beach reworked a request for bike host a disaster preparedness Zoominar at 3 p.m. Thursday, June 24. paths, she would consider backing it. Bob Bunting, CEO of Sarasota’s Climate AdaptaCommissioners voted 5-2 against funding the Holmes Beach project, with Servia and Commissioner tion Center, is a speaker. The Zoominar will feature emergency services and Reggie Bellamy voting against the motion. In a 5-2 vote, commissioners approved a $41,200 weather experts focused on what to expect from the request from Holmes Beach to purchase 22-acres of 2021 season and answering questions about how to land adjacent to Grassy Point, a nature preserve on prepare. For more information, including a link to join the Sarasota Bay. The city will match the tourist funds to create an Zoominar, go online to longboatkeychamber.com or entrance east of the 3200 block of East Bay Drive and call 941-387-9000. Whatever the storm season brings our way, we’ll install informational signs and boardwalks. There was little discussion about the request and weather it together and The Islander will have all the Commission Chair Vanessa Baugh and Satcher voted information you need to stay prepared. And as always … no. … Got business news? Contact Amy Moriarty at See related Anna Maria-Mote tourism project, amym@islander.org or call 941-778-7978. page 1.

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Thursday June 24 Thursday, June 24 3 p.m. — Longboat Key Chamber of Commerce disaster pre5 p.m. — Business card exchange, Island Mail and Print, 3230 paredness Zoominar. For more information, go online to longboatE. Bay Drive, Holmes Beach. keychamber.com or call 941-387-9000. SAVE THE DATE 6 p.m. — Manatee Chamber of Commerce 58th annual Dinner and Fourth annual Robert P. Bartz Award for Outstanding LeaderOct. 16, Bayfest, Pine Avenue, Anna Maria. ship honoring Amanda and John Horne, Bradenton Area Convention Fees may apply for events. For more information, contact the chamber at 941-778-1541. Center, 1 Haben Blvd., Palmetto. Reservations required. For ticketing, call the Manatee Chamber at 941-748-3411. DAILY/WEEKLY/MONTHLY SCHEDULED SERVICE Fees may apply for events.

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June 16, 2021 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 23 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Manatee chamber takes fun outdoors at Compass

anna maria island Privateers president Kim “Syren” Boyd, left, takes the mic from manatee chamber of commerce ceo/ president Jacki dezelski at the June 8 chamber event co-hosted by the Privateers and compass by margaritaville at the hotel on Perico island. islander Photos: Bonner Joy

Privateers president Kim “Syren” Boyd sets the mood with a pirate-style cheer to open the celebration and prize giveaways at the manatee chamber event. BeLoW: the privateers and compass manager france Langon cry out a hearty “arrrrr” at the hotel entry with the Privateer ship, the Skullywag.

chamber VP Kim dalglish and ceo/ president Jacki dezelski prepare to present door prizes.

Hank “fluffy” Phillips, maryanne “maz” Zyla and ron “candyman” fisher add to the fun at the manatee chamber of commerce networking event co-hosted by the pirates and compass.

Winners!

don’t forget… You can read it all online at islander.org

MIKE NORMAN REALTY

RENTAL HOME OWNERS

Pay less commission than industry standard and get better service. Responsive website, online booking, travel insurance, safe credit card processing, 24/7 inquiry responder and key-less check-in.

EST. 1978

No marketing and credit card costs, direct pay into your account. Family owned and managed. Enjoy the personal touch. Be treated as a VIP, not like a number. Get in touch with us and check out our favorable conditions for renting and managing your rental. We also serve you in German, French & Spanish.

Florida Dreams Realty of AMI Inc. 3340 East Bay Drive Holmes Beach FL 34217 Office +1 941 462 4016 Email: info@florida-dreams.com www.florida-dreams.com

CORTEZ COTTAGE

Adorable 2BR/1BA cottage, just a half mile to the beach. Quiet street and LOADS of potential. Short walk to eight neighborhood restaurants, two fresh seafood markets, the Florida Maritime Museum and the 100-acre F.I.S.H. Preserve. $399,000

Mike Norman Realty 800-367-1617 • 941-778-6696 31O1 GULF DR HOLMES BEACH www.mikenormanrealty.com sales@mikenormanrealty.com

Markus Siegler INC

Owner/Broker

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Page 24 THE ISLANDER | islander.org June 16, 2021 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

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

ANNOUNCEMENTS

KIDS FOR HIRE

deHumidifierS, Kenmore PortaBLe 70 pints. like new, $75. ge, 30 pints. $50, with manuals. 239-537-9108.

Wanted: WorKout dVds and retired but working xBox, Wii units with games for ministry of Presence for kids and teens in Haiti. deliver to the islander, 315 58th St. Suite J, Holmes Beach.

dePendaBLe, reSPonSiBLe, fun babysitter for hire. 13 years old, island local. available in June. 941-526-9090.

aVanti 20-incH gaS stove: Stainless steel, electronic ignition, six months old. model gr2013cSS. $250. 813 624-8472.

Wanted: Your oLd cellphone for recycling. deliver to the islander, 315 58th St. Suite J, Holmes Beach.

antiQue Partner deSK: all wood, $1,000. inquire at the islander office, 315 58th St. Suite J, Holmes Beach. 941-778-7978.

free gun LocK courtesy of Project childsafe, florida fish and Wildlife conservation commission and Holmes Beach Police department. Pick up at the islander office, 315 58th St. Suite J, Holmes Beach. don’t be sorry, be safe.

antiQue office cHairS: Perfect for eclectic dining set. circa 1950 from anna maria city Hall. inquire at the islander newspaper, 315 58th St. Suite J, Holmes Beach. 941-778-7978.

PETS

FREEBIE ITEMS FOR SALE

HeLP reScued PetS! Volunteer, foster, computer help needed! moonracer animal rescue. email: moonraceranimalrescue@gmail.com.

indiViduaLS maY PLace one free ad with up to three items, each priced $100 or less, 15 words or less. free, one week, must be submitted online. email classifieds@islander.org, fax tollfree 1-866-362-9821. (limited time offer)

BOATS & BOATING

Sandy’s Lawn Service Inc. ESTABLISHED IN 1983

Residential & Commercial Full-service lawn maintenance. Landscaping ~ Cleanups Hauling ~ Tree Trimming. LICENSED & INSURED

Paradise Improvements

941.792.5600

Kitchen and Bath Remodeling Specialist Replacement Doors and Windows

Andrew Chennault

FULLY LICENSED AND INSURED Island References Lic#CBC056755 CBC 1253471

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

References available • 941-720-7519

AdoptA-Pet Honey is 5 years old. She is up to date with vaccinations, spayed and looking for a loving family. To meet this sweetie, call Lisa Williams at 941-345-2441 or visit The Islander ofﬁce in Holmes Beach. For more about pet adoption or to adopt Honey, visit moonraceranimalrescue.com.

notice of PuBLic sale: morland marine gives notice of foreclosure of Lien and intent to sell this vessel: 1995 Wellcraft 238c. Hin: WeLffB60K495 10 a.m. on July 3, 2021, at 2123 university Parkway, Sarasota, fL 34233, pursuant to subsection 328.17, florida Statutes. morland marine reserves the right to accept or reject any/or all bids.

KidS for Hire ads are free for up to three weeks for island youths under 16 looking for work. ads must be placed in person at the islander office, 315 58th St. Suite J, Holmes Beach.

SERVICES need a ride to airports? tampa $65, St. Pete, $55, Sarasota, $30. gary, 863-409-5875. gvoness80@gmail.com. iS Your Home or office in need of some spring cleaning? Well, i’m your girl! Local, reliable, professional! Please, give me a call or text, 941-773 -0461.

BicYcLe rePairS. JuSt4fun at 5358 gulf drive. We can do all types of bicycle repairs. flat tires to new builds. We pick up and deliver. Quick response and reasonably priced. 941-896-7884. LooKing for a housecleaner? Look no further. Sand & Sea cleaning is the team for you. 941-226-2773.

HELP WANTED

HandYman and cLeaning services. move-ins and outs. affordable. call fred, 941-356-1456.

HeLP Wanted: LandScaPe design company looking to hire. Quick raises, bonuses, working outdoors. call drew, 941-301-8366 for more information.

BuSineSS-to-BuSineSS Jd’s Window cleaning looking for storefront jobs in Holmes Beach. i make dirty windows sparkling clean. 941-9203840.

cHef: ViSiting famiLY of six (four adults, two children) is looking for a chef to prepare three meals a day and clean up the week of dec. 27 to Jan. 3. Send resume, references, and salary required to: chef, 3307 e Wasatch Pines Lane, Sandy, ut 84092.

BeacH SerVice air conditioning, heat, refrigeration. commercial and residential service, repair and/or replacement. Serving manatee county and the island since 1987. for dependable, honest and personalized service, call Bill eller, 941-795-7411. cac184228.

tHe iSLand’S toP rental company, anna maria island accommodations, is offering premium pay for full-time maintenance technicians. if you’ve got what it takes to keep our vacation homes in top-notch condition, we want to meet with you. Please send your resume to: careers@annamariaparadise.com.

tHe iSLander offerS the best results for your classified advertising dollar. We really work for you! Submit your ad no later than noon monday on the website, islander. org. for monday holidays, the deadline is friday.

Chantelle Lewin

Broker Associate Licensed since 1983

When it comes to buying or selling your home, Please, CALL ME FIRST! LISTING INVENTORY IS LOW! Let my 30-plus years of experience work for you.

—

Chantelle

We TWeeT TOO

941.713.1449