The Islander Newspaper E-Edition: Wednesday, May. 22, 2024

Holiday crowds cloud AMI horizon PS Bay bacteria linked to horses

By robert anderson islander reporter

Many people anticipate a day of AMI fun, sun and surf Memorial Day weekend.

For the island’s first responders, the holiday is one of the busiest weekends of the year.

Bradenton Beach police Chief John Cosby said the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office will collaborate with Bradenton Beach and Holmes Beach law enforcement May 25-27 to deal with beach crowds, traffic congestion, parking crunches and emergen-

cies. The MCSO also contracts to fulfill all law enforcement needs in Anna Maria.

In Bradenton Beach, Cosby said people might encounter parking challenges due to county construction projects in Cortez Beach parking lots.

To address the closure of parking at Cortez Beach, the county will open overflow parking at Coquina Beach south.

“Parking is strictly first come, first served,” said Cosby, who emphasized the need to follow parking rules or face a fine.

PLeaSe, See HoLiDaY, NeXt Page

Cool end-of-school pops

anna Maria elementary kindergartners Harbor enander, left, Wyland fellows, adeline Bystrom and Savannah o’Neil enjoy ice pops outdoors May 17. More, page 13. islander Photo: courtesy aMe

By robert anderson islander reporter

Water quality testing links horses to pollution in north Palma Sola Bay.

Testing by the nonprofit environmental monitoring group Suncoast Waterkeeper has showed high levels of enterococci bacteria in north Palma Sola Bay and now DNA testing links the bacteria to horse waste.

Palma Sola Bay is an embayment in west Manatee that flows into Anna Maria Sound and provides sanctuary for manatees, dolphins, wading birds, fish and other wildlife, as well as serves as a recreation area.

Abbey Tyrna, Suncoast Waterkeeper executive director, discussed the group’s findings and efforts in an interview with The Islander May 15.

“Our most recent (DNA) test was April 8 in the evening during a low tide,” Tyrna said. “We collected water and sediment from where we sample weekly.”

The Suncoast Waterkeeper newsletter explain the group’s findings: “The levels we see indicate that for most of the year, Palma Sola Bay, north of the causeway, is unsafe for swimming. Suncoast Waterkeeper has studied DNA in Palma Sola Bay water for over two years to find the source of the

Boat ramp to be named for AMI conservationist

By robert anderson islander reporter

When commercial fishing guide Capt. Scott Moore stood at the dais May 14 to address Manatee County commissioners about environmental stewardship, little did he know the presentation would end with

commissioners voting to stamp his name on a landmark location for anglers and boaters.

During the board of county commissioners meeting in Bradenton, Moore gave a presentation on the state of local fisheries.

“Despite recent challenges with red tide,

encouraged commissioners to acquire property for preservation at rattlesnake Key near the Sunshine Skyway Bridge. islander Screenshot

Piney Point issues and freezes, I am pleased to report that the fish populations are recovering,” he said. “I’d like to highlight the crucial role that mangroves make in our area.”

He pointed to the impact county-administered parks such as Robinson and Emerson preserves have made in maintaining mangrove shorelines and said protecting mangroves is paramount to the health of fisheries.

And Moore referred to Rattlesnake Key as a vital component of the local fisheries.

Rattlesnake Key, which sits between Terra Ceia to the north and Emerson Preserve to the south, might become a county preserve. The county has set aside money and an appropriation is in the pending state budget for fiscal 2024-25.

“Preserving these habitats ensures that future generations can experience the beauty in Florida,” Moore said. “As you drive south over the Skyway and enter Manatee County, envisioning Rattlesnake Key’s shoreline, consider the legacy we leave for generations to come. Let’s work together to preserve this precious natural heritage.”

Moore is known for his conservation efforts. He also is known for his fishing PLeaSe, See moore, Page 3

PLeaSe, See Bacteria, NeXt Page

Memorial Day closes offices

Most government offices will be closed Monday, May 27, for Memorial Day, a federal holiday for remembrance of those who died in service to the country.

Most banking institutions and some other businesses will be closed.

The holiday also might disrupt some trash collection schedules, beginning with regular Monday pickups, which are delayed until Tuesday. Pickups throughout the week are delayed one day.

However, Manatee County Area Transit services, including the island trolley, will operate normal routes.

Also, the holiday will not impact operations at public parks, except at G.T. Bray in Bradenton, where the recreation center will be closed.

AM to salute veterans

The city of Anna Maria will hold its annual Memorial Day observance at 10 a.m. Monday, May 27, at City Pier Park at Pine Avenue and Bay Boulevard.

The Memorial Day Symphony will feature the Anna Maria Island Concert Chorus and Orchestra, a salute to veterans and spouses and a high school ROTC honor guard presenting the colors.

To accommodate the event, two city blocks — the 500 block of Pine Avenue and the 100 block of North Bay Boulevard — will be closed to vehicular traffic.

Also, island trolley passengers attending the salute will be dropped off at South Bay Boulevard and Magnolia Avenue.

Passengers will board the southbound trolley at South Bay Boulevard and Spring Avenue during the ceremonies.

For more, call the city at 941-708-6130.

— Lisa Neff

At the beaches, Cosby encouraged people to exercise vigilance, particularly regarding water safety, advising adults to keep an eye on children and heed lifeguard warnings.

In Holmes Beach, police Chief Bill Tokajer pledged a greater police presence to monitor beaches and parking and he also asked people to comply with regulations to avoid fines.

“We expect to have a lot of people. We expect to have a lot of traffic. We expect to have some backups down Manatee Avenue because it’s four lanes going into a two lane,” said the chief, who likened traffic on the

Bacteria coNtiNued froM Page 1 fecal indicator bacteria.

“In seven tests for human DNA, only two, on Sept. 9, 2021, and July 12, 2023, showed significant presence, indicating human fecal contamination. Three tests revealed high E. coli levels, but not from humans.”

Following a recommendation from Sarasota Bay Estuary Program executive director Dave Tomasko, the group shifted to LumunUltra, a DNA test lab, to determine the source of the non-human bacteria.

“This new lab can run multiple assays and they look for the DNA of different species,” Tyrna said. “So in this case we asked them to look for human and horse DNA and what they found was horse DNA.”

Enterococci bacteria, indicative of fecal contamination, were found in elevated concentrations during several tests administered by Suncoast Waterkeeper.

People and pets exposed to bacteria higher than a standard level have an increased risk of developing gastrointestinal illness or skin infections, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Tyrna underscored the importance of addressing the issue to safeguard public health and preserve the

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island to trying to fit 100 pounds of potatoes into a 5-pound bag.

“We need people to be patient,” Tokajer said.

He said motorists can go to the city’s web site, holmesbeachfl .org, and follow the “find parking” prompt to see a map of approved parking spaces. The law enforcement presence in county parks will include MCSO special response teams and mounted patrols.

And remember, no vehicles, pets grills or fires on the beaches.

Randy Warren, public information officer for the sheriff’s office, said May 16 that marine patrol units also will be on Gulf and bay waters monitoring for reckless or impaired boaters.

ecological integrity of the bay.

“I think, without a doubt, horses are contributing to the enterococci that we are seeing at Palma Sola Bay,” she said.

Tyrna said many horse tours in the bay take steps to clean up after the animals but efforts might not be enough and tighter regulations might be needed.

“Those efforts are laudable but they are not reducing the problem to zero,” she said. “I guess the question is how many horses have to poop in the bay before everyone has to get out?”

Tyrna said Suncoast Waterkeeper advocates for sustainable solutions to environmental challenges.

“We have spoken to the people who run the horse operations and they are all for being regulated,” Tyrna said. “What we do know is they would like a permanent program so that only certain operations could operate there with a permit.”

Meanwhile, an advisory issued by the Manatee County Department of Health for Palma Sola South underscored the urgency of addressing water quality issues.

tokajer

Warren cosby

moore coNtiNued froM Page 1 prowess for more than 50 years.

“He’s an educator. He’s enlightened countless individuals to the importance of sustainable fishing practices,” Commissioner Kevin Van Ostenbridge R-District 3, said during the meeting.

“If there is ever a person who is going to be memorialized or remembered for their contributions in their specific field, Capt. Moore is that person,” Van Ostenbridge said. “I think Capt. Moore is someone who deserves that recognition.”

Van Ostenbridge then motioned to direct the county attorney’s office to draft a resolution naming Coquina North Boat Ramp in Bradenton Beach the Capt. Scott Moore Boat Ramp. The Coquina South Boat Ramp would be renamed the Coquina Boat Ramp.

Commissioner Mike Rahn seconded the motion, which passed 5-0.

Moore thanked the commission for the recognition and then returned to his mission, asking again for the county to acquire Rattlesnake Key.

For more about Capt. Scott Moore, please, see the story online at islander.org.

Water quality tests May 6 and May 8 indicated enterococci bacteria levels at Palma Sola South exceeded the recommended criteria for recreational water quality. As a result, the advisory against engaging in water-related activities was posted for Palma Sola Bay South.

The advisory was lifted after tests completed May 13 indicated an acceptable level of the bacteria under government guidelines.

“There needs to be action on this matter,” Tyrna said.

The Islander reached out to the Florida Department of Health May 16 regarding Suncoast Waterkeeper’s findings.

The DOH-Manatee responded via email May 17, “When a water quality advisory is in place, DOHManatee advises against any water-related activities

English visitor drowns in red flag conditions

A visit to Anna Maria Island ended in tragedy for an English couple.

A 75-year-old man was found around 10 a.m. May 18 drowned in the Gulf of Mexico waters near 77th Street in Holmes Beach, according to West Manatee Fire Rescue fire marshal Rodney Kwiatkowski.

The man was visiting AMI with his wife, who was on shore during the incident and was not physically harmed, according to WMFR.

at this location due to an increased risk of illness in swimmers. There are many potential sources which can lead to elevated levels of enterococci bacteria in a waterbody, including stormwater runoff, pets, wildlife and human sewage.

DOH-Manatee testing does not determine the cause of high enterococci levels.

“The DOH-Manatee epidemiological team monitors enteric bacteria lab results and provides further action when needed.”

Suncoast Waterkeeper reports findings weekly at suncoastwaterkeeper.org/safetoswim.

Florida DOH water quality results are reported at floridahealth.gov/environmental-health/beach-waterquality.

The incident was the only one that resulted in a fatality of three near-drowning events May 18.

The events correspond with a red flag warning, which indicated high surf and/or rip current activity, posted along island beaches that day.

The National Weather Service had issued a rip current statement May 18 that lasted 7:41 a.m.-8 p.m.

“WMFR cautions even the strongest of swimmers from entering the waters during red flag hazard conditions,” Kwiatkowski said.

— ryan Paice

WMfr paramedics and Manatee county emergency Medical Service technicians guide a stretcher May 18 carrying a woman involved in a near drowning at Manatee Public Beach, 4000 gulf drive, Holmes Beach, to an ambulance. islander Photo: courtesy William Saba

Q&A 052224

By Lisa Neff

The Islander poll

Last week’s question

As a kid, my summer break highlight was …

28%. Beach days.

13%. Playing sports.

9%. Summer camp.

33%. Family vacation.

18%. Other.

This week’s question

My hurricane kit protein of choice is …

A. Canned fish.

B. SPAM.

C. Peanut Butter.

D. Beans.

E. Other.

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

AMI R&R — retail and restaurants — gear up for Memorial Day

By robyn Murrell islander reporter

Sand, sunshine and Gulf views bring fl ocks of Floridians to Anna Maria Island for Memorial Day weekend.

According to Elliott Falcione, executive director of the Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau, the holiday visitors might not stay as long and not spend as much money as out-of-state tourists during the winter-spring season.

“On Memorial Day Weekend, probably 50% of the people that are coming to the island are either Manatee County residents or from adjacent counties,” Falcione said. “They may grab a quick lunch, they may pack their own lunch, spend six hours on the beach, and, because it’s only an hour, they’ll head right back home after that.”

Memorial Day launches the summer season, which Falcione said typically triggers a surge in the drive market for AMI.

The island economy will get a boost from Memorial Day and summer visitors but there is a shift in spending, as people over the summer typically don’t spend as much per day as winter and spring visitors to AMI, according to Falcione.

Nevertheless, Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce president Terri Kinder told The Islander via email May 14 that preparation for the holiday is important.

“Most of the businesses gear up for the number of visitors over a holiday and Memorial Day is no exception,” Kinder said. “Memorial Day is typically very busy on the island and has a positive economic impact on our area. Summer is also typically busy as many Floridians take their vacations with their families and often vacation in-state.”

Tanner Enoch, who operates the Anna Maria Island Beach Cafe and Coquina Beach Cafe, told The Islander May 16 that the beach typically draws large crowds for Memorial Day but many bring their own gear and

Coquina Beach Market

IRE has 105 properties on AMI and, as of May 15, a little over 50% were booked through the holiday weekend.

“We will probably never be fully booked for Memorial Day. It just doesn’t happen,” Varga said. Varga said the summer is expected to be busier than summer 2023 but she has observed that more people are making last-minute bookings, in the hope that waiting will produce the best price.

Meetings

By Lisa neff

ANNA MARIA CITY

there’s plenty of seating available May 16 at the anna Maria island Beach cafe less than a week ahead of Memorial day. a few people huddled near the cafe’s tiki bar, but manager tanner enoch anticipates crowds at the bar, 4000 gulf drive, Holmes Beach, over the threeday holiday. islander Photo: robyn Murrell

“We don’t expect a boost in food sales but we’ll have a busy weekend at the tiki bar and in the ice cream parlor,” Enoch said.

Chet and Sandra Zarzycki, owners of Holy Cow Ice Cream, 3234 E. Bay Drive, Holmes Beach, also are looking forward to holiday crowds and increased ice cream sales.

“Everybody comes to enjoy themselves as they should. It’s a beautiful place,” Zarzycki told The Islander May 16. “We’re looking forward to lots of sunshine and we’re going to be making plenty of milkshakes.”

Kacey Varga, revenue manager at Island Real Estate Sales & Rentals in Holmes Beach, has 24 years of experience on AMI.

She said of the holiday weekend: “Most of our guests are local or from just outside of Florida.”

Come and support your local artists and crafters.

Wednesday, May 22nd

Friday, May 24th & Sunday May 26th (10 AM - 4 PM)

Here is what you will find at our Market: jewelry, fresh lemonade, women’s apparel, custom & creative artwork, fresh baked goods, pet items, home décor, metal artwork, stuffed turtles, sunglasses, Celtic jewelry, caps, skin care products, water totes & bags, t-shirts, guacamole, windchimes, bracelets, eco friendly bug spray, aloe vera lotions, jerky, fresh coconut drink, licorice, toys and MORE.

Music 11 AM - 2 PM by Mike Sales on Wednesday Chuck Davis on Friday & Sunday

NEW LOCATION: The Coquina Beach Market is located on the very South end of Anna Maria Island. If driving, take the South entrance to the park before the Longboat Pass bridge. If taking the trolley, walk South from the Café to the end of the island.

Follow us on Face Book and receive daily vendor roster, weather cancellations or marked closure days. www.coquinabeachmarket.org 941 -840-0789 https://www.facebook.com/CoquinaBeachMarket

May 23, 6 p.m., commission. 10005 Gulf Drive, 941-708-6130, cityofannamaria.com.

BRADENTON BEACH

June 5, 9:30 a.m., CRA. June 5, 1 p.m., planning and zoning. June 6, 6 p.m., commission. 107 Gulf Drive N., 941-778-1005, cityofbradentonbeach.com. HOLMES BEACH

May 22, 5 p.m., planning. May 28, 10 a.m., code compliance. May 28, 2 p.m., commission. June 5, 5 p.m., planning. 5801 Marina Drive, 941-708-5800, holmesbeachfl.org.

May 23, 9 a.m., commission, land use. May 28, 9 a.m., commission. 1112 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton, 941-748-4501, mymanatee. org.

May 27, Memorial Day, most government offices will be closed, as will The Islander. Send

County OKs $2.9M for parking garages

By dawn Kitterman

the Bradenton times

Manatee County commissioners May 14 approved a budget amendment designating $2.925 million toward preliminary design services for three proposed parking garages, including one at Manatee Public Beach.

The measure appeared on the commission’s consent agenda as part of a broader budget amendment resolution.

Employees from the county’s property management department and procurement division stepped to the podium at the administration building in Bradenton to answer commissioner questions about the budget amendment’s purpose after a commissioner requested the item be “pulled” from the consent agenda.

Cary Knight, director of property management, told commissioners, “We will be bringing on an architectural firm to complete a pre-design criteria package.”

Knight said the completed criteria packages will be included in requests for quotes the county will advertise as it seeks opportunities for public-private partnerships that might help fund the projects.

Three garage projects were included in the budget amendment:

• The Bradenton Area Convention Center in Palmetto;

• Premier Sports Complex and Library in Lakewood Ranch;

• Manatee Public Beach in Holmes Beach.

The garages were last discussed at a commission meeting in August 2023.

In April, the board approved execution of an agreement with Sweet Sparkman Architects Inc. for a design criteria package on the county’s downtown administrative building parking garage. The cost is not to exceed $1,876,448.52.

The budget amendment resolution adopted May 14 approved just over $2.9 million for the three additional parking garage design packages, with $625,000 for the convention center garage, $1.175 million for the Premier Sports Campus garage and $1.125 million for the beach garage.

The board’s approval of the amendment also adjusted the fiscal 2024-28 capital improvements plan.

Explaining why he pulled the item from consent, Commissioner George Kruse, R-District 7, said, “I found it odd that this was coming up for discussion now, and two, that it was placed on consent. The parking garages were important enough that we previously had a full work session on it but not enough to put it on an actual agenda now?”

Kruse said he requested the item be pulled to help provide clarity to the public, which has expressed interest in the future of the proposed parking garage projects, particularly the one proposed for Manatee Public Beach, which the city has opposed.

Kruse expressed concern that the board was being asked to approve a large amount of taxpayer funds

Holmes Beach commissioner named ‘Home Rule Hero’

Holmes Beach city clerk Stacey Johnston, left, presents May 14 the florida League of cities’ 2024 Home rule Hero to city commission chair terry Schaefer, right. the award was given to 160 officials throughout the state for their efforts advocating for municipal home rule during the 2024 legislative session. islander Photo: courtesy Jt thomas

toward preliminary design work without having held any additional public discussion since its work session last year.

The commissioner questioned whether the measure was “fiscally conservative.”

Jake Erickson, the county’s purchasing official, said Florida statutes require the county to have a completed design criteria package for each garage project to solicit a public-private partnership.

“We have to have a design criteria packet,” Erickson said. “That’s the basis for the solicitation itself. So this was the decision after the public-private partnership was identified as the way to go.”

County administrator Charlie Bishop said the design criteria packet would provide “conceptual designs” for proposals and possibly negotiations with business entities.

Bishop shared that Elliott Falcione, executive director of the Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau, believes in the county’s ability to enter a public-private partnership for the garage projects.

“We have two very viable economic development drivers coming to Premier,” Bishop told commissioners. “We feel those are going to drive this parking garage. This gives us the ability to conceptually design it and get the design-build criteria package out

Election 2024 Fundraiser for

elections supervisor candidate

Holmes Beach resident Dick Motzer is on the host committee for a fundraiser for Scott Farrington, a Republican candidate for Manatee County supervisor of elections.

The fundraiser for Farrington, a former deputy supervisor in the office, will be 5:30 p.m. Wednesday, May 22, at the Manatee Performing Arts Center, 502 Third Ave. W., Bradenton.

The hosts include Mike Bennett, who retired from the supervisor post earlier this year, and his wife, Dee.

The other active candidate is former County Commissioner James Satcher, also a Republican.

Satcher has $70,500 in campaign contributions and Farrington has $10,300, according to votemanatee.com.

For more information, email votescottfarrington@ gmail.com.

On the calendar

• June 3-14, candidate qualifying in Anna Maria.

• June 10-14, candidate qualifying in Bradenton Beach.

• June 10-14, candidate qualifying in Holmes Beach.

• July 22, registration closes for primary.

• July 30, 5:30 p.m., Manatee Chamber of Commerce Meet the Primary Candidates night.

• Tuesday, Aug. 20, primary election.

• Tuesday, Nov. 5, general election.

Send notices to calendar@islander.org.

— Lisa neff

on the street, so we can speak to those experts that build garages and see if there is a need, or a want, for somebody to public-private partnership with us.”

Kruse said approval of funding for preliminary designs was putting the “cart before the horse,” as staff had not researched the viability of any of the three garages being designed as pay-for-parking garages and that the county was unsure where the funding for the garages would come from if it were unable to secure private support for the projects.

“This is $3 million of taxpayer money and we have a lot of infrastructure needs in Manatee County,” Kruse added. “We’re trying to take good stewardship of taxpayer dollars.”

The measure passed 6-0. The District 1 commission seat is vacant.

Editor’s note: The report, published with permission, appeared fi rst at thebradentontimes.com. The Bradenton Times is a digital publication. Former County Commissioner Joe McClash founded TBT in 2008.

farrington

Take a step back

You think with all the voices and action on AMI and among town folks opposing their plans, that the county would at least reconsider the folly that is the parking garage at the Manatee Public Beach.

Don’t you just want to shout out: It’s not a parking problem, stupid, it’s traffic! Traffic is the problem.

And after this past Saturday, with a drowning and three near drownings on the beach in one day, I for one would rather see garage money spent on making the beaches safer.

We only have lifeguards posted at the public beaches and as the beach popularity grows, the crowds spread north and south and there’s no help in sight along the majority of the shoreline.

We need more aid stations and marine rescue patrols in constant movement — dawn to dusk plus — up and down the shore on ATVs.

Anna Maria Island’s beaches should be the safest beaches in Florida this year — not in 10 years.

We need the county and the tourism council to budget and provide protection on the beaches ASAP.

You can’t keep bringing people to “paradise” if it isn’t safe, and I don’t know if the National Weather Service or Manatee County marine rescue can confirm it, but it seems we have more frequent rip tide warnings now than in the past.

Is it a sign of climate change? Are the dynamics changing in our waters? Are the currents stronger?

What can we do to safeguard the lives of people who come to enjoy the sun and surf on Anna Maria Island?

We have speed limits and traffic signs to make the roadways safer. We put up crosswalks for pedestrians. We carve out paths for bicyclists on the roads.

We need to do more for beach safety, whether it’s warning beachgoers during sting ray season to shuffle their feet when they enter the water or impressing on beachgoers the dangers of rip currents, dangerous marine life or the presence of red tide.

We need ..... MORE!

And I don’t think we need a seaweed/algae harvester. I think it’s the biggest boondoggle I’ve heard of in my 32 years of publishing the news here.

We need to halt or control the use of pesticides, herbicides, fertilizer and other harmful chemicals. We need to pass meaningful laws to protect our waters.

There’s a lot of work to do to make AMI safe.

On that “to do” list, we need to put the governor to work, writing on a blackboard, repeating this message until he gets it: “Climate change is real. Climate change is real. Climate change is real ...”

— Bonner Joy, news@islander.org

Your

Opinion

Plastic waste

We are lucky enough to have a vacation home on this beautiful island.

I wonder what is The Islander’s view of plastic waste? I cycle regularly and see not only this week’s Islander but last week’s as well, thrown onto drives of empty properties.

Why deliver at all?

Skimming online

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Concern for Cortez anchorage

▼ Publisher, Co-editor Bonner Joy, news@islander.org

▼ Editorial editor Lisa neff, lisa@islander.org robert anderson, robert@islander.org

Joe Bird, editorial cartoonist

Kevin cassidy, kevin@islander.org

Masha dolgoff, masha@islander.org

Jack elka, jack@jackelka.com robyn Murrell, robyn@islander.org ryan Paice, ryan@islander.org

▼ Contributors

Karen riley-Love

Jacob Merrifield

capt. danny Stasny, fish@islander.org

▼ Advertising Director

toni Lyon, toni@islander.org

▼ Webmaster Wayne ansell

▼ Office Manager, Lisa Williams info@, accounting@, classifieds@, subscriptions@islander.org

▼ Distribution

urbane Bouchet ross roberts

The paper is available in outlets as well as online.

The amount of plastic that this outdated form of delivery produces is not inconsequential. Please rethink and keep paradise free from trash.

An Islander report by Robert Anderson on complaints about a lack of policing in a Cortez anchorage drew more than 100 comments on the newspaper’s Facebook page, among them:

Judy Loden Wasco

All others: news@islander.org

While I am thinking about plastic, why is Publix still offering free plastic bags? Many countries now charge for plastic bags to encourage people to reuse or purchase reusable bags. Time for Publix to make a stance.

Gill Parker, Anna Maria

Editor’s note: We appreciate the kindness of our community and neighbors who collect unwanted newspapers. Also, residents can request delivery or stop delivery with a call to The Islander, 941-778-7978.

Squatters on spoil island

Responding to a May 15 Islander report about people squatting on a spoil island, readers said: Neither the county nor the state monitors these islands or this one. So I guess it’s no surprise. What do they expect?

— Melissa Dedloff

Having furniture and debris out there is not good for the environment.

— Penny Bednarz

It was only a matter of time. Before they took the rights to the land then the sky and now the waters.

— Devin Renfrow

Under Admiralty law, the right of anchorage is part of the right to free navigation. Local law cannot usurp federal law and international law. I am not a lawyer but that is my understanding.

— Rick Odato Sr.

In the past year, anchorage by liveaboards has spilled over to Palma Sola Bay south of the causeway. Starting to look trashy.

— H. Wiley Williams

Yes, I will be one as well! Off the coast means no policing! That’s why we do it.

— Travis Smith

Symptom of home affordability crisis.

— Coby Taylor

Stationed on the bayfront an admiral inspects members of the u.S. coast guard stationed in the village of cortez in 1976. Station cortez is part of the coast guard’s 7th district and conducts law enforcement, search and rescue and harbor security missions.

islander Photos: courtesy Manatee county Public Library System

People gather in 1992 for the dedication of the u.S. coast guard Station cortez along the bayfront in the historic fishing village. the station is at 4530 124th St. court W.

10, 20, 30 years ago

From the May 19, 1994, issue

• A special task force formed to address traffic congestion, drainage, parking and pedestrian accessibility along Gulf Drive planned to hold a public forum to explore solutions.

• Anna Maria Mayor Ray Simches said all proposed ordinances would be reviewed by an attorney following a planning commissioner’s objection to paying for attorney reviews.

From the May 19, 2004, issue

• Holmes Beach commissioners decided not to ask the electorate to vote on changing their form of government to a city manager system.

• The president of the AME-PTO learned while dining at Anna Maria Elementary that despite a special PTO fund established to ensure all students received a hot lunch, kids with past-due accounts were being served peanut-butter sandwiches.

From the May 21, 2014, issue

• Sheriff’s deputies and cadaver-sniffing dogs spent two days searching the bayfront in Anna Maria for the remains of Sabine Musil-Buehler or evidence in her 2008 disappearance.

We’d love to mail you the news!

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Members of the u.S. coast guard stand at attention during a 1976 inspection at the cortez station, 4530 124th St. court W. ANNA

• The Holmes Beach Congestion Committee asked several churches and businesses to open parking lots on weekends for beachgoers. An issue for some was the commission needed to provide insurance coverage, waste receptacles and signs.

• Duffy’s Tavern hosted the Day-Trippers Party at the conclusion of a season that saw some animosity between islanders and mainlanders. The sale of Day-Trippers stickers raised money for the Center of Anna Maria Island.

— Lisa neff

MARIA ISLAND PRIVATEERS

ARE HOSTING THEIR ANNUAL

SATURDAY MAY 25TH, 2024 10AM TO 2PM MES BEACH CITY FIELD

Fire district nears 1k rental inspections, 1,700 to go

By ryan Paice islander reporter

Four months after registering 222 vacation rental inspections, the West Manatee Fire Rescue District had almost quadrupled that figure.

WMFR staff completed 855 inspections — including 657 annual inspections and 198 re-inspections — as of May 17, according to fire marshal Rodney Kwiatkowski.

However, a majority of the district’s 2,700 registered transient public lodging establishments remains uninspected with less than five months until fiscal 2024-25 begins Oct. 1.

The district covers Anna Maria Island and west Bradenton.

Heading into fiscal 2023-24, WMFR established a vacation rental inspection program in accordance with state law.

The district hired two inspectors and two staff members to run the program, which involves annu-

Holmes Beach city engineer and public works superintendent Sage Kamiya speaks May 14 about the public works team. islander Photos: courtesy Jt thomas

rigHt: Public works employees stand May 14 outside city hall on being recognized during a commission meeting ahead of national Public Works Week, which is observed May 19-25. Mayor Judy titsworth read a proclamation and thanked the public works staff for their efforts.

ally inspecting TPLEs for compliance with the Florida Fire Prevention Code.

WMFR had completed 222 vacation rental inspections through Jan. 4 but has since increased its inspection rate.

Kwiatkowski said district staff had been working with rental management agencies, such as Bradentonbased AMI Locals, to inspect properties in bulk.

He said up to 80 rental units had been inspected in one day thanks to the cooperation — even requiring a third inspector for some of the busier days.

On average, Kwiatkowski estimated WMFR staff inspects about 10 units per day up to six days a week. At a pace of 60 inspections per week, the district would be projected to finish fiscal 2023-24 having completed 1,140 more inspections.

That would leave WMFR’s total number of rental inspections at about 2,000 — 700 shy of the total number of registered TPLEs and thousands short of the projected 2,000 additional unregistered units —

over the program’s first year.

Kwiatkowski said the rate of inspections had increased since the district provided notice about its requirements to about 3,000 rental property owners throughout the district who had yet to schedule an inspection.

The letters were sent earlier this year to owners of registered and unregistered TPLEs catalogued by Colorado-based Granicus, which WMFR hired to help identify rental properties.

“People started scheduling right away,” Kwiatkowski said.

While Kwiatkowski said the search for unregistered TPLEs might remain a “never-ending chase,” the rest of the program is moving along smoothly.

“Probably smoother than I had anticipated,” he said. “Most people are very gracious about the whole thing and are welcoming to the inspection and us. We don’t run into many bad attitudes at all.”

Rental property owners can schedule inspections with WMFR using the district’s website, wmfr.org.

What WMFR checks for…

West Manatee fire rescue transient public lodging establishment inspectors enter rental properties with a list of items to check for compliance, such as:

• Working smoke alarms — and carbon monoxide detectors for properties with gas appliances or attached garages — must be in each bedroom, in the bedroom hallway and in a common area;

• Fire extinguishers must have an up-to-date annual inspection certification and be wall-mounted in a conspicuous and unobstructed location;

• All paths of egress remain unobstructed and clear;

• Battery-powered emergency lights must illuminate any primary paths of egress and exit, as well as stairs if there is a second or third floor;

• Extension cords are prohibited from being used as permanent wiring.

• Address numbers must be visible from the street with contrasting colors and at least 6 inches in height;

each vacation rental must also include a guest information book featuring fire safety information about smoke detectors, means of evacuation and how to report a fire.

if WMfr inspectors find a violation, they will provide 45 days for the owner to correct it and schedule another inspection.

a list of common compliance mistakes and how to correct them can be found on the district’s website, wmfr.org.

— ryan Paice

WMfr inspector nick riffe, left, points out an electrical hazard May 17 to property manager angie Kreitz during a vacation rental inspection at a unit in the runaway Bay condominiums in Bradenton Beach. islander Photo: courtesy WMfr

Islanders gather almost 1,000 letters opposing consolidation

By ryan Paice islander reporter

A lot of voices are coalescing against the potential consolidation of the three island cities.

Anna Maria residents Barbara and Tom Ehren told The Islander May 17 that a campaign had almost a thousand signed letters in opposition to consolidating the island cities and a parking garage in Holmes Beach.

“We have close to a thousand letters now and we have more coming in every day,” Tom Ehren said.

Rep. Will Robinson Jr., R-Bradenton, led efforts behind the proposed parking garage and ongoing consolidation study.

Robinson filed House Bill 947, unanimously approved last year by both legislative houses and signed into law June 23, 2023, by Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis.

The bill allows the county to build a 36-foot-tall parking structure on county-owned property — such as Manatee Public Beach, 4000 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach — without obtaining a permit from the city.

Manatee County has since presented preliminary plans for a $45 million parking garage that would increase the current lot’s 400-space capacity to 1,500-1,700 spaces and county commissioners May 14 approved money for preliminary design work.

Robinson also proposed the area legislative delegation commission a Florida Office of Program Policy and Government Accountability study into the potential consolidation of the island municipalities.

The delegation unanimously backed Robinson’s proposal.

OPPAGA has been working on the study since November 2023 and is expected to complete it in July.

In the meantime, people like the Ehrens are organizing island voices against such threats.

They held a May 4 rally in Holmes Beach, where they facilitated the signing of hundreds of pre-written letters to Robinson and state Sen. Jim Boyd, R-Bradenton voicing opposition to the proposed parking garage and ongoing consolidation study.

Barbara Ehren, president of the Anna Maria Island and West Manatee Democratic Club, said such efforts were born from the club but had blossomed into a “nonpartisan grassroots movement” consisting of concerned island and mainland residents, as well as visitors from across the world.

“I’m really thrilled with the response from the community but I’m not surprised. I don’t think anyone

rigHt: Volunteers guide rallygoers May 4 in signing letters opposing consolidation of the island cities to state rep. Will robinson Jr., r-Bradenton. islander file Photo: ryan Paice

wants this to become Miami Beach,” she said.

She said they planned to hand-deliver the letters of opposition to Robinson during a meeting she hoped to schedule with the representative.

“He said he wanted public input, so I’m taking him at his word,” Barbara Ehren said. “They should want to know from their constituents, right?”

If they fail to schedule a “friendly interchange” with Robinson, Barbara Ehren said they had a “louder” plan B to deliver their letters.

“We don’t want a confrontational meeting,” she said. “If they refuse to meet with us, then that will force us into a different mode.”

People can learn more about the cause, as well as find written letters of opposition ready to be printed, on the “Save Florida Home Rule” Facebook page.

The letters also are provided and collected at the Anna Maria Island Coffee Shack, 5500 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach.

HB business tax hike sent to 2nd, final hearing, vote

By ryan Paice islander reporter

Higher business taxes in the city of Holmes Beach are one vote away from adoption.

City commissioners unanimously voted May 14 to approve a first reading for an ordinance that would implement an across the board maximum 5% increase in business tax rates.

The city issues business tax receipts annually Oct. 1-Sept. 30 and businesses must apply for renewal every year.

State law allows municipalities to raise business tax receipts by up to 5% every two years.

The municipality has raised its business taxes by the 5% maximum increase every two years since 2012.

The city last increased business tax receipts in 2022 and raised about $40,000 in BTR revenue in fiscal 2023-24.

Any potential increase would become effective on Oct. 1, when fiscal 2024-25 will begin.

The proposed ordinance would remove BTR fees from city code so they could be placed in a resolution — something the municipality has done in recent years to make its fines and fees easier to adjust since

resolutions only require one reading.

City clerk Stacey Johnston said the proposed ordinance would also add several new business categories, including indoor/outdoor recreation, billiards establishments, bookstores, dance centers, driving ranges, miniature golf and more.

Johnston said the BTR rates for the new categories was determined with averages reviewed in other communities.

Commissioner Carol Soustek moved to approve a first reading for the ordinance.

Commissioner Pat Morton seconded the motion, which passed.

There was no public comment.

In other matters…

City commissioners also:

• Unanimously voted to adopt an ordinance making changes to city code regarding encroachments;

• Unanimously voted to approve a first reading for an ordinance implementing changes to pool codes.

The commission will meet next at 2 p.m. Tuesday, May 28, at city hall, 5801 Marina Drive.

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

compiled by Lisa neff, calendar@islander.org

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

OFF AMI

Friday, May 24

2 p.m. — Rock Garden Painting, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341.

Wednesday, May 29

1 p.m. — Screening “Live to 100: Secrets of the Blue Zones,” the Longboat Key Paradise Center for Healthy Living, 546 Bay Isles Road, Longboat Key. Information: 941-383-6493.

ONGOING OFF AMI

• Through May, “Harmony: Lines, Shapes and Color” photography exhibit by David Tejada, Island Gallery and Studios, 456 Old Main St., Bradenton. Information: 941-778-6648, islandgalleryandstudios.com.

• Through June 23, “Mountains of the Mind: Scholars’ Rocks from China and Beyond” exhibit, the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, 5401 Bay Shore Road, Sarasota. Fee applies. Information: 941-360-7390.

• Through June 30, “Yayoi Kusama: A Letter to Georgia O’Keeffe,” Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, 1534 Mound St., Sarasota. Fee applies. Information: 941-366-5731.

• Through Aug. 15, “To The Moon: Snoopy Soars with NASA,” the Bishop Museum of Science and Nature, 201 10th St. W., Bradenton. Fee applies. Information: 941-746-4131.

• Through Aug. 31, Thursday-Saturday, 7 p.m., 9 p.m., Laser Light Nights, the Bishop Museum of Science and Nature, 201 10th St. W., Bradenton. Fee applies. Information: 941-746-4131.

• Through Oct. 20, “Reimagining Nature: Dali’s Floral Fantasies,” the Dali Museum, 1 Dali Boulevard St., St. Petersburg. Fee applies. Information: 727823-3767, thedali.org.

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

• Saturdays, 10:30 a.m., art demos, Island Gallery and Studios, 456 Old Main St., Bradenton. Information: 941778-6648, islandgalleryandstudios.org.

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

SAVE THE DATES

Sept. 19-29, Island Players’ “Crimes of the Heart,” Anna Maria.

Salvador dali’s “tiger Lilies and Mustache” is on display at the dali Museum in St. Pete in the “reimagining nature: dali’s floral fantasies” exhibit. islander image: courtesy dali Museum/Salvador dali/fundacio gala-Salvador/ david deranian

Nov. 14-24, Island Players’ “A Doublewide, Texas Christmas,” Anna Maria.

MARKETS & SALES

ONGOING ON AMI

• Most Wednesdays, Fridays, Sundays, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Coquina Beach Market, Coquina Beach, Bradenton Beach. Information: 941840-0789, coquinabeachmarket.org.

ONGOING OFF AMI

• Second Saturdays through Aug. 10, 8 a.m.-noon, Summer Mini-Markets, Old Main Street, Bradenton. Information: realizebradenton.com, 941-301-8445.

KIDS & FAMILY ON AMI

Friday, May 24

10 a.m. — 40 Carrots, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341.

Saturday, May 25

10 a.m.-2 p.m. — Anna Maria Island Privateers Snooks Adams Kids Day celebration, city field, 5800 block of Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: amiprivateers.org.

Tuesday, May 28

10 a.m. — Family storytime, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341.

ONGOING OFF AMI

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

• Third Fridays, Teen Nights, the Bishop Museum, 201 10th St. W., Bradenton. Fee applies. Information: 941-7464131.

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

SAVE THE DATES

June 3-Aug. 2, the Bishop Museum of Science and Nature Science Camp, Bradenton.

June 3-Aug. 2, Center of Anna Maria Island Summer Camps,

wellness center and spa

Anna Maria. CLUBS & COMMUNITY

ON AMI

Thursday, May 23

1 p.m. — Sunshine Stitchers, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341.

Monday, May 27

9 a.m. — Love it Like a Local Beach Cleanup with the Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau and Keep Manatee Beautiful, South Coquina Beach, Bradenton Beach. Information: 941-748-4501.

10 a.m. — Anna Maria Memorial Day Patriotic Symphony Salute, City Pier Park, Pine Avenue and Bay Boulevard. Information: cityofannamaria.com, 941-708-6130.

ONGOING ON AMI

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

• Second Mondays, 2 p.m., Center of Anna Maria Island Adult Book Club, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria. Information: 941-778-1908.

• Most Tuesdays, noon, Rotary Club of Anna Maria Island meeting, Bridge Street Bistro, 111 Gulf Drive S., Bradenton Beach. Information: 941-718-5583.

SAVE THE DATES

June 4, Keep Manatee Beautiful Palma Sola Causeway Park Cleanup, Bradenton.

LESSONS & LEARNING

ON AMI

Wednesday, May 22

10 a.m. — Kickstart Creative Writing, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341.

ONGOING ON AMI

• Tuesdays through August, 10 a.m., Anna Maria Island and Shorebird Monitoring Turtle Tracks and Shorebird Facts, Holmes Beach City Hall, 5801 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Note: Time change to noon May 28 and June 25. Information: islandturtlewatch. com, info@islandturtlewatch.com, 941-301-8434.

SPORTS & FITNESS

• Most Wednesdays, 1 p.m., mahjong club beginners, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-7786341.

• Most Fridays, 11:30 a.m., mahjong club experienced players, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-

Island happenings

Center hosts book group

The Center of Anna Maria Island continues to host gatherings for a book club at 2 p.m. on the second Monday of the month.

A notice from the center read, “Calling all book lovers: All are warmly welcomed to immerse in captivating stories and engaging discussions.”

the cover for “the Women.” islander courtesy Photo

The club will discuss “The Women” by Kristin Hannah at its June 10 meeting.

The author’s website describes the best-selling novel, set in the 1960s, as “at once an intimate portrait of a woman coming of age in a dangerous time and an epic tale of a nation divided by war and broken by politics, of a generation both fueled by dreams and lost on the battlefield.”

The club meets at the center, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria.

For more information, call the center at 941-7781908.

Bishop goes ‘To the Moon’

Just before the first human landed on the moon, Charlie Brown and Snoopy soared through space with NASA’s Apollo 10 mission in May 1969.

“To the Moon: Snoopy Soars with NASA,” a new exhibit at the Bishop Museum of Science and Nature, examines the history of Apollo 10 and the Peanuts characters’ role in that flight, as well as in the NASA Manned Flight Awareness safety program.

“To the Moon: Snoopy Soars with NASA,” included in the price of admission to the museum, opened May 17 and will continue through Aug. 15.

The Charles M. Schulz Museum and Research Center in Santa Rosa, California, organized the exhibit.

The museum is at 201 10th St. W., Bradenton.

For more information, go online to bishopscience. org or call the museum at 941-746-4131.

De Soto rangers lead hikes

The rangers at the De Soto National Memorial in Bradenton are leading a series of field trips to Perico Island.

The rangers will conduct nature and history walks at Neal Preserve, 12301 Manatee Ave. W., at 10 a.m. Thursday, May 23, and Thursday, June 6.

The tour will encompass 0.3 miles in the county preserve, a significant site where Native American culture existed and that now includes reconstructed burial mounds — the originals were excavated in the 1930s by the Smithsonian.

For more information, call the national memorial at 941-792-0458.

“Anna Maria Island,” a signed pictorial history book of the island by Bonner Joy, is available for $20 at the islander office, 315 58th St., Holmes Beach, or by mail. Visit islander.org or call 941778-7978. $20 plus postage.

Center camps start June 3

The Center of Anna Maria Island is registering kids for a series of summer camps that begins June 3.

The center, 407 Magnolia Ave., plans three categories of camps: Summer My Way Camp, Adventure Time Teen Camp and Specialty Camps.

• Summer My Way will be for kids as young as kindergarten up to the fifth-grade, with enrollment in a sports-themed or discovery program.

• The teen camp will be for young people grades sixth-ninth and feature “center fun” and Tuesday and Thursday trips.

• The all-ages specialty camps will focus on babysitting, tennis, tumbling, soccer, photography, Lego building, archery, lacrosse, baking, fishing and crafts such as tie-dye and sun printing.

For more information, call the center at 941-7781908 or email youthprograms@centerami.org.

the center of anna Maria island celebrates the start of summer activities during the first week of day camp in 2022. islander file Photo

Annie Silver hosts book sale

The Annie Silver Community Center will host a potluck lunch and book sale Saturday, May 25.

The activities will be 10 a.m.-1 p.m. at the neighborhood center, 103 23rd St. N., Bradenton Beach.

People are asked to bring a dish to share.

For more information, call Dianne Coates at 724787-1418.

Market shifts for summer

The Bradenton Market will hold a series of minimarkets on select Saturdays this summer.

Realize Bradenton, which coordinates the fallspring market on Old Main Street, will host summer mini-markets 8 a.m.-noon June 8, July 13 and Aug. 10.

For more, call the nonprofit at 941-301-8445.

778-6341.

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

ONGOING OFF AMI

Through Sept. 1, Bradenton Marauders home games, LECOM Park, 1611 Ninth St. W., Bradenton. Fee apples. Information: 941747-3031.

OUTDOORS & NATURE

ON AMI

Thursday, May 23

10 a.m. — De Soto National Memorial guided walk, Neal Preserve, 12301 Manatee Ave. W., Perico Island. Information: 941-7920458.

ONGOING OFF AMI

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

SAVE THE DATES

June 6, De Soto National Memorial hike at Neal Preserve, Perico Island.

CALENDAR NOTES

KEEP THE DATES

Through Oct. 31, sea turtle nesting season. Lights out!

May 27, Memorial Day.

June 1-Nov. 30, Atlantic hurricane season. Be prepared!

June 14, Flag Day.

June 16, Father’s Day.

June 19, Juneteenth.

June 20, summer solstice.

July 4, Independence Day. Sept. 2, Labor Day. GET LISTED!

Send listings to calendar@islander.org.

need a good laugh? visit the NEW emerson quillin signature store. humor, art, gifts NEW LOCATION: HB Post Office, 5354 Gulf Drive• emersonshumor.com

and Glitter Tattoos

AME principal bids farewell, retiring from 27-year career

By robyn Murrell

Anna Maria Elementary principal Michael Masiello is set to retire after a 27-year career as an educator in Manatee County.

“I would like the entire Anna Maria school community to know that it has been my pleasure serving as principal of Anna Maria Elementary,” Masiello told The Islander May 16.

He said becoming an educator was a natural choice, given that his father, aunt, four sisters and two brothers-in-law worked as educators in Manatee County.

Masiello also was a student in the Manatee school system, attending Jessie P. Miller Elementary, Sugg Middle and Manatee High, as well as Manatee Junior College. He went on to earn degrees at the University of South Florida and Saint Leo University.

He began his career in education in 1996 as a special education teacher at Stewart Elementary. After 10 years, he became an exceptional student education specialist and later supported students with behavioral challenges. From 2012-16, he was assistant principal at Bayshore Elementary, then principal at Ballard Elementary 2016-20.

Masiello became AME’s principal in 2020.

He recalls how welcome he felt from the first day.

Kiwanis congratulates scholar claudette Welch, left, and Patricia Webster of the Kiwanis club of anna Maria island Scholarship committee congratulate erline constant, winner of the dr. Bob LaMastro Scholarship, and erline’s mom, ermite. erline received the $1,000 scholarship from the club during a May 11 meeting at Bradenton Beach city Hall, 107 gulf drive n. islander courtesy Photo

“It was a great feeling to become part of the AME family,” Masiello said.

At AME, he played a key role in establishing the Guy Harvey Academy of Arts and Sciences, a firstever partnership between the Guy Harvey Foundation and the school district that offers hands-on learning in marine conservation, fisheries management and marine biology to prepare students for careers in the field.

“As I reflect on my first year at AME to today, we have had many changes to our campus and accomplished a lot in a short period,” Masiello said. “We have remodeled the media center, upgraded the auditorium, added the Guy Harvey Room, installed a new covered area, began construction on the outdoor learning classroom and have plans for adding a boat dock in the coming year.”

Masiello said he enjoyed working with the Guy Harvey Foundation to establish the Manatee program, which is expanding from AME to King Middle and Manatee High schools.

“I hope that as many students as possible have exposure to the curriculum and learn the importance of conservation of our delicate marine environment,” Masiello said.

Masiello said that deciding to retire was difficult and he will miss the school community.

“I love my job and the people I interact with daily. So making the decision to retire is not always as easy as it may seem,” Masiello said. “You know when it

anna Maria elementary principal Michael Masiello, left, with wife Kobee and sons nick and John Masiello vacations in 2019 at the rocky Mountain national Park in colorado. Masiello will retire at the end of the month and plans to spend more time with his family. islander courtesy

is time to make that decision. I need to focus on my health and I also want to dedicate more time to my family.”

He called AME a special place with special people.

“I’m confident that all of the great experiences past and present students have had will continue for future generations of students with your continued support,” Masiello said.

The last day of school for students will be May 24.

Masiello’s last day on campus will be May 28.

AME-PTO elects officers

The Anna Maria Elementary Parent-Teacher Organization elected officers for the 2024-25 school year.

The officers, elected in April, were sworn in on May 6 during a Zoom meeting. They include president Jen Serra, vice president Jessica Patel, secretary Morgan Blackburn and treasurer Caroline Leibfried.

Serra was reelected as president. Leibfried transitioned from vice president to treasurer. Jessica Patel was newly appointed to the board. The PTO’s next meeting is scheduled for August.

For more information, contact the PTO via email at amepto@gmail.com or call the school at 941-708-5525.

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aBoVe Left: alex czajkowski, isabella disalvo and Joey rosas — third-graders at aMe — focus on incoming water balloons May 17 at the end-of-year field day at aMe, 4700 gulf drive, Holmes Beach. islander Photos: courtesy aMe

By robyn Murrell

Summer fun before school ends

anna Maria elementary students and faculty enjoyed fun in the sun May 17 during an end-of-year field day on the school’s playground. Students took part in an obstacle course, a water balloon toss and a sack race, which ended in a feast of cool popsicles under a shade pavilion.

By Lisa neff

Annunciation shifts to summer

The Episcopal Church of the Annunciation shifts to a summer schedule this month.

The schedule, posted on the church website at amiannunciation.org, will begin Sunday, May 26.

The church, 4408 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, will celebrate one Holy Eucharist service at 9:15 a.m. Sundays instead of at 8 a.m. and 10:15 a.m.

For more information, call the church at 941-7781638.

Chapel raising capital funds

The Longboat Island Chapel launched a “Share the Light” capital campaign to raise money for “expanding and upgrading” its facilities at 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key.

People are invited to “light up” a tree at the sanctuary by donating $1,000-$50,000.

The campaign goal is $640,000.

Donations, as of May 16, were $19,827.

The chapel also is holding the Island Time Caribbean BBQ Demo Party at 11 a.m. Sunday, May 28, “in anticipation of the renovation work starting soon.”

For more information, call the chapel at 941-3836491.

Guild offers scholarships

The Roser Women’s Guild will accept applications for college scholarships until Friday, May 24.

The awards will be $500 for part-time students and $1,000 for students taking 12 credit hours or more per semester.

Applicants must be U.S. citizens who reside in Manatee County or have a close family affiliation with Roser Memorial Community Church in Anna Maria.

They also must possess at least a 2.5 grade-point average on a four-point scale.

Applications are online at roserchurch.com.

For more information, call the church at 941-7780414.

$2 Gathering

Memorial Day tribute at Roser Community Church

Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, will offer a special Memorial Day-themed program during worship services at 8:30 a.m. and 10 a.m. Sunday, May 26.

“Everyone is invited to join in honoring those who lost their lives while defending their country,” read a notice from the church.

The program will include patriotic songs, includ-

Tidings

compiled by Lisa neff THIS

WEEK

Sunday, May 26

11 a.m. — Longboat Island Chapel BBQ Demo Party, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key. Info: 941-383-6491.

June 3-7, Roser Church vacation Bible school, Anna Maria.

June 7, Temple Beth Israel Shabbat Dinner, Longboat Key.

June 17-21, CrossPointe Fellowship vacation Bible school, Holmes Beach.

Feb. 25-26, 2025, Christ Church of Longboat Key Men’s Retreat, TBD.

April 2-3, 2025, Christ Church of Longboat Key Women’s Retreat, TBD.

Oct., Rosh Hashanah.

Oct. 12, Yom Kippur.

Nov. 1, All Saints Day.

Dec. 25, Christmas.

ONGOING ON AMI

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

Worship: Sundays, 9 a.m.

Ongoing: Wednesdays, 7 a.m., men’s Bible meeting; Fridays, 10 a.m. women’s Bible meeting.

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

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

Ongoing: Most Wednesdays, 8 a.m., men’s breakfast; Mondays, 1 p.m., book club.

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

Worship: Sundays, 9:30 a.m., followed by coffee and fellowship.

Ongoing: First Sundays, food bank collections; Wednesdays, 9:30 a.m., women’s social gathering.

Harvey Memorial Community Church, 300 Church Ave.,

ing:

• The handbell choir performing “America the Beautiful.”

• The chancel choir performing the “Battle Hymn of the Republic.”

• The youth choir singing “My Country, ’Tis of Thee.” For more, call Roser at 941-778-0414.

Bradenton Beach. Information: 941-779-1912.

Worship: Sundays, 9:15 a.m.

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

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

Ongoing: Tuesdays, 2 p.m., women’s book study. St. Bernard Catholic Church, 248 S. Harbor Drive, Holmes Beach. Info: 941-778-4769, stbernardcc.org, office@stbernardcc. org.

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

Ongoing: Monday-Friday, 8 a.m., rosary; Wednesdays, 7:30 a.m.; Rosary on the Beach at Manatee Public Beach; Saturdays, 3 p.m., confession.

ONGOING OFF AMI

Christ Church of Longboat Key Presbyterian USA, 6400 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key. Info: 941-900-4903, christchurchoflbk.org.

Worship: Sundays, 10 a.m.

Ongoing: Wednesdays, 10 a.m., women’s Bible study; Mondays, 9 a.m., men’s Bible study.

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

Worship: Sundays, 10 a.m.

Ongoing: Mondays, 4 p.m., choir practice.

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

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

GET LISTED, CHANGE LISTINGS

Summer scheduling? Please, send notices of changes to schedules for worship and other events during the summer to calendar@islander.org.

At your service

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 to news@islander.org. Obituaries are provided free — a service of your community newspaper.

Paid obituaries can be discussed with advertising consultant Toni Lyon at 941-778-7978.

Privateers seek members, home port

By ryan Paice islander reporter

Several unknowns spot the horizon for the Anna Maria Island Privateers.

Privateers president MaryAnn “Maz” Zyla told The Islander May 16 that the nonprofit is aiming to add members, as well as find a home “location” for gatherings and a place to park the Skullywag, the group’s aging boat-float, although it might be on its last float.

The Privateers are a pirate-themed nonprofit created in 1971 that consists of volunteers who host events and raise money to provide scholarships for local youth and other “kids and family” causes.

Zyla became the nonprofit’s first woman president when she was elected in 2013-14 and she returned to the post last year after she ran for the position without opposition.

The Privateers are not as prominent as they were during Zyla’s first term as president.

“I met a lot of people in the community that live here … and they had no idea who we are or what we do,” Zyla said. “So that’s telling us we need to get our presence back out there to remind people how awesome we are!”

She said the nonprofit is still active, with volunteers leading “cruises” — also known as pub crawls — and contributing to events on and off the island.

However, the Privateers haven’t been able to host as many large-scale, signature events. Part of the struggle is the nonprofit’s dwindling membership.

Zyla estimated the Privateers has about “20ish” members — a far cry from the 60 members in past years — which makes coordinating and hosting events a challenge.

Additionally, the nonprofit’s low membership feeds into an oxymoronic cycle: the club needs more members for events but also needs more events to attract new members.

At a certain point, without enough events, the Privateers might struggle to fund its annual scholarships.

“We have to have enough members so we can put on adequate events that will help us generate the kind of money we need to do that,” Zyla said.

The nonprofit has taken steps to try to boost membership numbers, such as creating new membership levels available for people who cannot commit to attending meetings and events.

The Privateers also plan to host a couple “beefy” social events to reacquaint themselves with the com-

GoodDeeds

By Lisa neff

Volunteers sought for cleanup

Organizers of the annual Love it Like a Local Beach Cleanup set for Monday, May 27, seek volunteers.

The event on Anna Maria Island involves the Bradenton Area Convention & Visitors Bureau and Keep Manatee Beautiful.

“Our Love it Like a Local partnership with the CVB in 2022 brought outstanding results,” KMB executive director Jennifer Hoffman said in a news release. “So we’re expecting another tremendous turnout for this year’s event. It’s such a great opportunity for people who love and appreciate the natural beauty of Anna Maria Island to come out, spend time together and care for these coastal areas.”

In 2022, about 200 Love it Like a Local volunteers removed about 400 pounds of litter.

Volunteers will gather at Coquina Beach at 9 a.m. for the Memorial Day good deed.

“Anna Maria Island,” a pictorial history book of the island by Bonner Joy, is available for $20 at the islander office, 315 58th St., Holmes Beach. call or text 941-778-7978 for hours or purchase at islander.org. Joy is publisher of the islander.

munity and inspire potential new members to join.

“We certainly want the community to fall in love with us all over again,” Zyla said.

In the meantime, the Privateers are starting to look for a place to shelter the Skullywag, hold membership meetings and store equipment.

The nonprofit pays substantial costs every year to maintain the “beloved” Skullywag, partly because it is parked outside, leaving it exposed to the elements, according to Zyla.

However, Zyla said the ship will need to be replaced, likely at a price in excess of $50,000-$60,000. So AMIP wants to minimize maintenance costs for a future float by parking it inside or under cover.

“We’ve never had bricks and mortar, a place to call our own,” Zyla said. “We have to think more long term.”

The Privateers’ next business meeting will be at 7 p.m. Wednesday, June 5, at the Annie Silver Community Center, 23rd St. N., Bradenton Beach.

The Privateers next community event will be the annual Snooks Adams Kids Day party 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday, May 25, at city field in the 5800 block of Marina Drive, Holmes Beach.

For member info: Call president “Maz” at 941650-8673.

The final bell of the 2023-24 school year for many island kids will ring May 24.

The next day, the Anna Maria Island Privateers will usher in summer with a party, the annual Snooks Adams Kids Day.

The nonprofit dedicated to “kids and community” will partner with the Holmes Beach Police Department to host the celebration 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday, May 25, at city field in the 5800 block of Marina Drive, Holmes Beach.

Privateers will lead children in a series of games and activities.

They also will serve kids a lunch that includes hot dogs, pizza and beverages.

The party is named for the late Snooks Adams, a longtime law enforcement officer and 25-year Holmes Beach police chief, who organized the first kids day.

The Privateers assumed responsibility from Adams for hosting the party in the 1980s.

For more information about the Anna Maria Island Privateers, go online to amiprivateers.org, email liaison@amiprivateers.org or call president MaryAnn “Maz” Zyla at 941-650-8673.

— Lisa neff

Registration will open at 8:30 a.m. in the South Coquina Beach parking lot.

Snacks will be offered 11 a.m.-noon.

Also, the first 100 volunteers to sign up will receive a commemorative rash guard.

Mila Blake, 9, left, alana Schoeneck, 10, abigail gardner, 10, caitlin tamislea, 9, and her father Billy tamislea, all of Bradenton, scour the shoreline for trash at coquina Beach oct. 15, 2022, during the first Love it Like a Local beach cleanup. islander file Photo: robert anderson Maverick shows off his pirate regalia in the arms of his mom, Mackenzie fortenberry, during the 2023 Snooks adams Kids day. islander file Photo: robert anderson

Registration is online at eventbrite.com. Search for “Love it Like a Local Memorial Day Cleanup.”

Left: the anna Maria island Privateers roll along at the head of their July 4 parade in 2023. the Privateers — a nonprofit with a mission “for kids and community” — seek members. islander file Photo: robert anderson

Duplex weekly rental property, each unit having its own entire floor with front balconies to take in the seaside sites and glorious sunsets, as well as balconies on the back. Five bedrooms and four baths and an oversized owner’s area on the ground floor is a must-see.

A perfectly curated waterfront pool home with 4 bedrooms, 3 baths a 50-foot dock with a Golden boat lift capacity of 14,000 lbs. and a swingstopper. No bridges to open water. Generator and solar panels plus elevator to all floors.

Built of solid block with solid concrete foundation pillars that are buried well into the ground below, this 2-bedroom, 2-bath home is merely 100 feet from the beach access. The oversized garage can park at least four vehicles. Zoned for weekly rentals and no street-side parking.

Impeccably maintained from the landscaping to the roof, which is new as of November 2022. A list of upgrades, all completed in the past few years, is available upon request. Mid-island home in Holmes Beach with two bedrooms, a den and bath with room for a pool and a beautiful garden to enjoy the tranquility.

Complete streets study eyes safety concerns

By Lisa Neff Islander Editor

A study needed to build a “complete streets” project in Bradenton Beach and Holmes Beach is more than a year from completion.

Representatives with the Florida Department of Transportation, which is driving the study, were making rounds at meetings this month to brief policymakers on the status of the project, development and engineering study for the Barrier Islands Complete Streets project.

Complete Streets projects involve improvements that make travel safer for pedestrians, bicyclists and motorists.

“Humans make mistakes and we should design our systems to ensure that if crashes do occur, they do not result in serious human injury,” Colleen Ross of Jacobs Engineering Group, a DOT consultant, said May 13.

The DOT launched the PD&E study in January to “develop multimodal alternatives” along Gulf Drive from the Longboat Pass Bridge to Manatee Avenue — about 3.8 miles — and Gulf Drive from Manatee Avenue to White Avenue — abut 2.2 miles.

The study is not examining Manatee Avenue from East Bay Drive to Gulf Drive in Holmes Beach, an area being looked at in other projects, including the Anna Maria Island Bridge replacement.

The PD&E study also is not examining Gulf Drive in Anna Maria, which opted out of the project.

DOT representatives presented a timetable May 13 to both the Island Transportation Planning Organization and the Technical Advisory Committee, two offshoots of the Sarasota/Manatee Metropolitan Planning Organization board, which was to meet May 20 and was expected to review a presentation.

A safety analysis is underway, with plans for a workshop with key stakeholders, including law enforcement, later this summer.

The study team already reviewed crash data 2018-

2022, which showed crashes involving bicyclists and pedestrians in the study area were two times higher than the state average. Also, 46% of serious-injury crashes in the study area involved pedestrians or cyclists.

“We are seeing a concerning trend of severe crashes going up since 2019,” Ross told the ITPO meeting at Anna Maria City Hall. “And in 2023 there were four serious crashes.”

A public workshop will be held in January 2025 to consider alternatives for the corridor and a hearing for the PD&E could be held in August 2025.

The DOT expects to complete the study in 2026.

Only the PD&E phase of the project is funded in the DOT’s five-year work program.

The study cost is estimated at $1.74 million.

Design, right-of-way and construction phases are not yet funded and Adam Rose, DOT project manager, said it would be another year before cost estimates would be available.

RoadWatch

Eyes on the road

• South Bradenton Beach: Manatee County is working on sewer lines on side streets off Gulf Drive South. Motorists can expect closures of some side streets, including Sixth Street South through early June. Construction activities on the project will be suspended Monday, May 27, in observance of Memorial Day. Construction will resume at 7 a.m. Tuesday, May 28. For the latest, go to amiprojects.io.

• City center in Holmes Beach: Manatee County’s fi nal work on a force main project on Holmes Boulevard, Marina Drive and side streets continues. Through Thursday, May 23, Spectrum Underground will be doing contracted work for the county’s force main project that requires detours in Holmes Beach. For the latest, go to amiprojects.io.

For area information, go to swflroads.com

— Lisa Neff

Make nice at causeway merge

The Florida Department of Transportation will post signage on Manatee avenue near 75th Street in Bradenton encouraging motorists to use both westbound lanes up to a merge at the Palma Sola Causeway. Holmes Beach Commissioner Dan Diggins met with the DOT, sharing concerns about motorists blocking the merge lane, causing congestion and road rage. Islander

Photo: Lisa Neff

a map shows detours in Holmes Beach for Manatee County’s force main project. Islander Image: Courtesy city of Holmes Beach

AM man arrested for DUI

Holmes Beach police arrested Rafael Sackett, 52, of Anna Maria, May 12 on a second-degree misdemeanor charge for allegedly driving under the influence of alcohol.

Sackett also faces a first-degree misdemeanor charge for allegedly refusing to submit to testing after a prior license suspension for refusing DUI testing.

An officer located a motorist, Sackett, pinged by the city’s license plate recognition system and conducted a traffic stop.

During the stop, the motorist almost crashed into a parked vehicle and came to a stop partially parked in a property’s front yard.

The officer spoke with the driver, Sackett, who displayed signs of impairment.

After backup arrived, police asked Sackett to perform field sobriety tests. Sackett began the tests but became belligerent and refused to continue. He also refused to provide breath samples.

Sackett was arrested and transported to the Manatee County jail, where he was released the same day after posting $1,000 bond.

If convicted, punishment for a first-degree misdemeanor includes up to one year in jail, one year of probation and a fine of up to $1,000.

Punishment for a second-degree misdemeanor includes up to 60 days in jail and a fine of up to $500.

An arraignment will be at 8:55 a.m. Thursday, June 13, at the Manatee County Judicial Center, 1051 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton.

— Ryan Paice

Man convicted on DUI charge

12th Circuit Judge Heather Doyle ruled April 19 to find Thomas Hubbard VII, 37, of Venice, guilty of a second-degree misdemeanor charge for driving under the influence of alcohol.

Holmes Beach police arrested Hubbard July 13, 2023, after he was stopped for speeding on Manatee Avenue.

Hubbard pleaded no contest at an April 19 court hearing.

Doyle sentenced him to complete 12 months of supervised probation in Manatee County and 50 community service hours, as well as attend DUI school or a drug rehabilitation program.

Hubbard will be on probation until April 2025. — Ryan Paice

Shelter struck a barricade of traffic barrels and caution tape block off a damaged trolley shelter May 12 at the corner of 50th Street and Gulf Drive in Holmes Beach. a motorist driving a trailer May 9 took too sharp a turn and clipped a support post, according to police Chief Bill Tokajer. The motorist was identified using the city’s license plate recognition system. City engineer Sage Kamiya told The Islander there was no timeline or cost estimate for repairing or replacing the damaged shelter as of May 15. Islander Photo: Courtesy Robert abrunzo

Streetlife

By Robert anderson and Ryan Paice

Island police reports

Anna Maria

No new reports

The Manatee County Sheriff’s Office polices Anna Maria.

Bradenton Beach

May 6, 127 Bridge St., Island Creperie, theft. A complainant reported to the Bradenton Beach Police Department that a customer left without paying. An employee pursued and asked the customer to pay but instead they got in a vehicle and left.

May 9, 400 block Highland Avenue, assault. A BBPD officer was dispatched to a call concerning a suspicious person. The officer contacted a man with an open container of alcohol and asked him to pour out the contents. The man complied but then produced another bottle and consumed the alcohol. The man was taken to the BBPD, where he attempted to strike the officer. He was arrested on an assault on a law enforcement officer charge and transported to the Manatee County jail in Palmetto.

May 12, 200 block of Bridge Street, battery. An Uber driver who observed a fight between a man and a couple over a ride, flagged down a police officer. The driver said a man entered the vehicle but was the wrong party. When the couple who ordered the Uber arrived, the man became combative, assaulting the couple. The officer placed the man under arrest. He was taken to the Manatee County jail in Palmetto on a battery charge.

The BBPD polices Bradenton Beach. Cortez

No new reports.

The MCSO polices Cortez. Holmes Beach

May 6, 2800 block of Avenue E, theft. A Holmes Beach police offi cer responded to reports of stolen patio furniture. The complainant provided a list of missing items and pointed to a man with access to the property. The officer found the man’s truck but did not find the missing items. The officer also conducted a pawn search for the items to no avail.

May 7, Kingfish Boat Ramp, 752 Manatee Ave., missing property. A man said his cellphone went missing while he was at the ramp. He said he received a call from a woman who said she had the phone and wanted to return it but had yet to do so. An officer contacted the woman, who left the phone at the Bradenton Police Department.

May 8, 500 block of Manatee Avenue, camping. An officer found a man sleeping. The officer woke the man, who said he was homeless and waiting for his work shift. The officer issued him a court summons.

May 8, Manatee Public Beach, 4000 Gulf Drive, burglary/fraud. An officer responded to reports of a burglary. A woman and her daughter said multiple items, including credits cards, were taken from a vehicle. The cards were canceled and a pharmacy transaction stopped. HBPD reviewed security footage of an attempted transaction and recognized a man involved in a similar crime.

May 8, Publix Super Market, 3900 E. Bay Drive, theft/trespass. A store manager said a group of people left without paying for items. An officer found them loading items into a vehicle. They admitted to stealing items. The manager did not want to press charges. HBPD polices Holmes Beach.

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

Cortez developer prevails in canal dock dispute

By Robert anderson Islander Reporter

An appellate court determination May 3 affirmed that Cortez Road Investments and Finance Inc. has the right to proceed with dock construction along a canal at Hunters Point.

CRIF overcame a challenge brought in 2021 by MHC Cortez Village LLC.

Hunters Point, 12404 Cortez Road W., Cortez, is a development of 86 zero-energy homes that are designed to self-generate and store power for self-use.

MHC Cortez Village LLC, 12160 Cortez Road W., Cortez, owned by Equity Lifestyle Properties, filed an appeal with the 2nd District Court of Appeals in Tampa to overturn approval of a final order from the Southwest Florida Water Management District allowing CRIF, owned by developer Marshall Gobuty, a permit to install 32 new boat slips and replace 17 existing slips along a privately owned canal that surrounds the Hunters Point property.

The canal is owned by CRIF and serves as an access point to the Intracoastal Waterway for Hunters Point, Cortez Village Marina clients, Cortez Holiday RV, Buttonwood Inlet RV Resort and independent homeowners along other parts of the canal.

Gobuty’s acquisition of the canal occurred in 2016 alongside the purchase of the Hunters Point property from the Cipriani Family Trust.

The appellate decision followed a 2022 hearing

in which Administrative Law Judge J. Bruce Culpepper struck down all points raised by MHC and recommended that a permit for the 49 Hunters Point docks should be issued by Swiftmud.

Despite the May 3 determination in CRIF’s favor, Gobuty remained cautious about moving forward with dock construction.

He cited concerns over the potential for further appeals from MHC Cortez Village and he expressed frustration over “unnecessary delays” caused by repeated legal challenges, hindering the progress of development.

However, Gobuty said things are happening at the housing development.

“We’re building on the east side and the interior sites,” Gobuty said in a May 16 interview with The Islander. “We still hesitate to build on the west and northwest side because we fear another appeal or another challenge to our dock rights.”

“We’ve gone through the first hearing and now we’ve gone through an appeal and on both counts we unanimously won all decisions,” he said. “I am very suspicious of the marina and their tactics.”

CRIF is embroiled in a civil suit against MHC Cortez Village that began in 2022 and is pending in the 12th Judicial Circuit Court. A hearing for the lawsuit is scheduled for June 27, with Judge D. Ryan Felix presiding over the proceedings at the Manatee County Courthouse, 1051 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton.

an aerial view of Cortez showing the Hunter Point canal, highlighted in pink. Islander

Google Earth/2024 Airbus

Holmes Beach, Longboat Key plan hurricane forums

Holmes Beach offi cials will hold a community forum to discuss hurricane-preparedness.

The 2024 Atlantic hurricane season, which begins June 1, is forecast to be an “extremely active” season.

The city of Holmes Beach will hold a forum at 1 p.m. Wednesday, May 22, at city hall, 5701 Marina Drive, with presentations planned from the police, code compliance, public works and building departments.

City officials will cover evacuation, re-entry procedures, storm readiness, emergency planning, sandbagging and storm recovery.

For more information, call city hall at 941-7085800.

The town of Longboat Key, in partnership with the Longboat Key Chamber of Commerce, also will hold a readiness event.

The Longboat Key Disaster Preparedness Seminar will be at 3:45 p.m. Wednesday, June 5, at the Longboat Key Club Harbourside Ballroom, 3000 Harbourside Drive.

Meteorologist-in-charge Brian LaMarre with the National Weather Service-Tampa will deliver keynote remarks.

Reservations can be made by calling 941-3832466 or emailing info@lbkchamber.com.

— Lisa Neff

Resources for storm info

X (Twitter)

• National Hurricane Center: @NWSNHC, @NHC_atlantic.

• National Weather Service: @NWS, @NWSTampaBay

On the web

• County emergency management: mymanatee.org.

• State emergency management: floridadisaster. org.

• FEMA: fema.gov.

• National Hurricane Center: nhc. noaa.gov News

• The Islander: islander.org

• Bradenton Herald: bradenton.com

• Sarasota Herald-Tribune: heraldtribune.com.

• Spectrum Bay News 9: baynews9.com.

• WUSF/NPR: wusf.org

Photo: Courtesy

Holmes Beach exploring $308K algae harvester purchase

By Ryan Paice Islander Reporter

The city of Holmes Beach has found an algae harvester vessel that matches its specifications.

However, finding money to fund the vessel’s price tag is another matter.

City commissioners reached consensus May 14, directing city engineer and public works superintendent Sage Kamiya to bring back a finalized version of a proposed contract with Wisconsin-based Aquarius Systems to purchase a $308,000 algae harvester vessel.

The city’s clean water committee has pushed since shortly after its creation in 2021 for the purchase of a harvester vessel that can dispose of algal mats and fi sh kills in the municipality’s waterways. Removing decaying material can reduce foul odors and the water’s nitrogen load.

The city in March 2023 issued a request for proposals for a skimmer vessel.

Aquarius was the only contractor to respond, with a $587,060 proposal to sell and deliver such a vessel.

The city decided no premanufactured vessel suited its needs, so it rejected Aquarius’ proposal and issued an invitation to bid earlier this year to seek a vessel that meets its needs.

The ITB established that the vessel must be made of stainless-steel grade 304 or better with no galvanized parts, as well as feature epoxy and powder steel coatings for anti-corrosion protection.

Cortez chow time

Gerry and Hilda Coxon of Cortez are all smiles in their seats as people line up for food at the annual Cortez Community Picnic. Cortez Village Historical Society executive director Cynthia Rodgers said more than 50 people attended the fish fry at the Miller Dock on the waterfront. Food was supplied by a.P. Bell Fish Co. and Cortez Bait and Seafood. Islander Photo:

Courtesy Cynthia Rodgers

The ITB also required a vessel with the maneuverability to work in canals and dimensions no larger than 35 feet long and 12 feet wide.

Aquarius again was the only contractor to respond, this time with a vessel matching the city’s specifications that would cost about $308,000.

Kamiya said such a purchase might need to wait until fiscal 2024-25, which begins Oct. 1, as the city did not have funds in the fiscal 2023-24 budget.

Mayor Judy Titsworth said the other two island cities would consider an interlocal agreement with Holmes Beach to help fund the algae harvester in

exchange for its services.

Mats of Lyngbya wollei, also known as “brown gumbo” algae, push up May 8 to a seawall and a row of private docks behind Holmes Beach City Commissioner Greg Kerchner’s home on Key Royale. Islander

However, Titsworth said such an operation would require additional staffing and any shared costs would be covered via reimbursement, so the city would have to cover initial costs.

She said the city could be in store for several more years of seasonal algae breakouts following the Piney Point disaster in 2021, when more than 200 million gallons wastewater was pumped into Tampa Bay.

The wastewater contained elevated levels of nitrogen and phosphorus, nutrients that can fuel algal blooms like Karenia brevis, the red tide organism, and Lyngbya wollei, otherwise known as brown gumbo.

Titsworth added that an algae harvester could also be used to clean up red tide fish kills.

Nevertheless, she said there were other options for addressing algae and red tide issues, such as hiring local anglers and boat captains for spot cleanups.

Commission Chair Terry Schaefer expressed support for the purchase of a vessel. He said the city had been searching for such a vessel for a couple years as algae has continued to pose an issue.

There was no public comment.

The commission will meet next at 2 p.m. Tuesday, May 28, at city hall, 5801 Marina Drive.

The meeting can be viewed on the city’s website, holmesbeachfl.org.

Photo: Courtesy Greg Kerchner

Florida Institute for Saltwater Heritage takes stock of 2023-24

By Robert anderson Islander Reporter

Florida Institute for Saltwater Heritage members gathered at Fishermen’s Hall May 13 for an annual general assembly, reviewing their achievements and charting future projects.

FISH treasurer Jane von Hahmann presented an overview of the nonprofit’s financial situation, including reporting a significant reduction in FISH mortgages — a drop from $180,000 a few years ago to $70,000 in 2024.

Von Hahmann also spoke about revenue generated from the nonprofit’s festival in February.

Despite a rainout the second day of the Cortez Commercial Fishing Festival, FISH raised around $43,000.

Von Hahmann told The Islander in a May 17 email that “the FISH financial status is really good. Thanks to a great festival in 2023 and a good single day for the 2024 festival, we are on solid ground.”

Additionally, she reported at the meeting that FISH secured more than $60,000 in donations in the past year, as well as a $165,000 grant from the Barancik Foundation of Sarasota to enhance public access at the FISH Preserve, 4404 116th St. W., Cortez.

The preserve spans 95 acres of undeveloped coastal habitat adjacent to the historic village and serves as a sanctuary for marine life and as a protected recreational area.

The grant will fund the addition of trails and promote safe public access.

FISH also has a $16,000 donation from the Bradenton Kiwanis Club to be used for projects, including educational signage.

Meanwhile, board member Karen Bell spoke to the membership about efforts to remodel the old Cortez fire station, which was constructed in 1950 at 4523 123rd St. Court W.

The building served as a volunteer fire department for more than 20 years.

In 1997, the West Manatee Fire Rescue District transferred ownership to FISH. the building has served as a storage facility and polling station.

Bell said FISH has spent about $12,000 to transform the building into a community hub for events, such as neighborhood fish fries. In other news, Paul Rodgers, the husband of Cortez Village Historical Society president Cynthia Rodgers, spoke in her

absence about the group’s relationship with FISH.

The CVHS’s cultural center, 11655 Cortez Road W., sits on preserve property.

Rodgers said this year marks the 40th anniversary of the society’s founding.

For 2023-24, the society installed a bench at the Miller dock, sponsored an Earth Day event in conjunction with Anna Maria Elementary and dedicated a plaque at the cultural center to the late Mary Fulford Green, a descendant of a longtime Cortez family who was considered a “matriarch of Cortez.”

Also, in the past year, CVHS received a grant from the Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce

to revamp a docent guide at the cultural center, as well as hosted an annual arts and crafts fair, Christmas in Cortez, picnics and coffee hours.

About FISH

FISH, a nonprofit run by a 12-member board of directors, manages several properties in Cortez, including a 95-acre preserve, a boat shop, Fishermen’s Hall and the former volunteer fire station.

The nonprofit, formed in 1991, is dedicated to the promotion, education and preservation of Cortez and its commercial fishing culture.

For more, go to fishcortez.org.

Members of the Florida Institute for Saltwater Heritage, the Sarasota Bay Estuary Program and Manatee County and state of Florida representatives cut a ceremonial ribbon Nov. 3, 2023, to celebrate the completion of restorative efforts to the FISH Preserve. Islander File Photo: Robert anderson

Florida Institute for Saltwater Heritage treasurer Jane von Hahmann speaks during a meeting May 13 at Fishermen’s Hall in Cortez about the nonprofit’s financial accomplishments.

Islander Photo: Robert anderson

Top student athlete named at St. Stephen’s, soccer countdown

By Kevin P. Cassidy Islander Reporter

Islander Nick Yatros received the St. Stephen’s Episcopal School’s Mandy Stoll Student-Athlete of the Year award during the school’s May 3 sports banquet.

Nick played multiple sports at St. Stephen’s, including basketball, cross-country and track, while maintaining a 4.0+ grade-point average. This earned him a spot on the “Head of School List.” He took home the most valuable player award in basketball and was honored to be selected for the Manatee/Sarasota all-star basketball team.

Nick also qualifi ed for the track and fi eld state championships in the 4x400 and 4x800 events.

He plans to attend Emory Oxford University in Georgia, play basketball for the Eagles and study finance and computer science.

Congratulations to Nick and his proud parents, Gy and Maria, from The Islander.

Adults wind up for soccer playoffs

With the end of the regular season of the adult soccer league at the Center of Anna Maria Island, the focus turns to seed positions for the playoffs.

Pool America is clinging to top seed with a 5-1-2 record and 17 points. Progressive Cabinetry holds second place with a 5-2-1 record and 16 points, just ahead of third place Salty Printing with a 5-3 record and 14 points.

Sato Real Estate holds fifth with a 4-4- record, while Moss Builders at 3-3-2 and Language Services Associates are in sixth and seventh respectfully. Diamond Turf at 2-5-1, Beach House Restaurant at 2-6 and Solid Rock Construction at 1-4-3 complete the adult division standings.

Action May 16 kicked off with Sato easing past Solid Rock Construction 4-2 behind a pair of goals from Alex Landy. Zacharieah Anabtawi and Damir Glavan each added a goal and Paul Jennison made nine saves in the victory.

James Noblett and Luca Vecchio each scored for Solid Rock, which also received eight saves from Mark Long in the loss.

Tyler Brewer scored two goals and Kevin Roman added one to lead Salty Printing past Ross Built in the second match of the night. Goalie Tuna McCracken helped preserve the victory with 10 saves.

Ted Hurst scored the goal for Ross Built on an assist from Andrew Ross, while Tim Holly made 12 saves in the loss.

Pool America outscored Beach House 4-2 behind a hat trick by Cody Wright and a goal from Brandon Rolland, who also made seven saves in goal.

Beach House received a goal each from James

the winner of the Am I Coconuts versus Emily Moss match, followed by No. 2 seed Solid Rock taking on the winner of the Isola Bella versus Shady Lady game at 7 p.m.

Moss Builders captured the No. 1 seed and the accompanying first-round bye in the 11-14 division. No. 4 seed Solid Rock Construction was to take on No. 5 seed Westfall’s Lawn Care & Pest Control May 21, with the winner taking on No. 1 Moss Builders at 6 p.m. May 22. The second game May 21 had No. 2 Gitt Team taking on No. 3 HSH Designs at 7 p.m. The championship game is set for 7 p.m. Tuesday, May 28.

Key Royale golf news

Gerry Martinek lapped the field at the Key Royale Club in Holmes Beach during the men’s weekly modified-Stableford dystem match May 12. Martinek fired a plus-6 to easily get the win over Ed Harrell, Chuck Patrick and Tom Solosky, who tied for second place at plus-3.

The women were on the course May 13 for a ninehole individual-low-net match in two flights. Jana Samuels grabbed first place in Flight A with a 1-underpar 31, just ahead of second-place finisher Pam Lowry. Jenny Huibers was alone in third at 2-over-par 34.

Connie Livanos captured first place in Flight B with an even-par 32, a stroke ahead of second-place finisher Cate Foy and three strokes better than thirdplace finisher Laurie Hicks.

Rodriguez and Marco Ruiz and Aaron Frech made 11 saves in the loss.

Moss Builders and Language Services battled to a 2-2 tie in the third game of the evening. Riley Godfry and Kali Richardson each scored a goal for Moss Builders, which also received 11 saves from Ryan Moss in the draw.

Ethan Hampton scored two goals and Steve Oelfke made eight saves for Language Services in the tie.

The last match of the night saw Diamond Turf earn a 4-3 victory over Progressive Cabinetry, denying them a chance to move into first. Gerardo Urbiola Bolanos scored two goals to lead Diamond Turf in the victory.

Raul Loera scored two goals and Osvaldo Cabello scored once to lead Progressive Cabinetry, which also receivd 12 saves from Tyler Bekkerus in the loss.

Youth soccer moves onto playoffs

The regular season for the young soccer players at the center concluded and the focus now moves to the playoffs. The Intuitive Foundation nailed down the No. 1 seed with a 6-1 record, while Solid Rock Construction took second with a 4-1-2 record. Both teams received byes into the second round of the playoffs.

Am I Coconuts earned the No. 4 spot and was tosquare off against No. 5 Emily Moss Designs May 21, while Isola Bella Italian Eatery took third place on a 2-1-4 record and was to play No. 6 seed Shady Lady Horticultural Services.

The playoffs will continue at 6 p.m. Wednesday, May 22, with No. 1 Intuitive Foundation taking on

The week culminated for KRC with a nine-hole shamble May 15 with two scores counted from each group. The team of Ron Buck, Brian Comer, Earl Ritchie and Larry Solberg combined on a 3-underpar 61 to earn clubhouse bragging rights for the day. The team of Jim Bailey, Mike Cusato, Ed Harrell and Warren Stephens matched the 2-under-par 62 carded by Jack Connors, Joe Coyne Dave Desrosiers and Mike Gille for a tie for second place.

Horseshoe news

Two teams posted undefeated records during pool play and settled things in a playoff during May 15 horseshoe action at the Anna Maria City hall pits.

The team of Gary Howcroft and Steve Doyle cruised to a 22-7 victory over Bob Hawks and Tom Farrington to win the day’s proceedings.

The May 18 games saw two walkers advance from pool play to settle things in the playoffs, where Hawks

Cassidy

PLEaSE, SEE SPORTS, NEXT PaGE

Nick yatros of Holmes Beach poses with St. Stephen’s athletic director Lenny Paoletti May 3 on receiving the Mandy Stoll Student-athlete of the year award at the annual banquet at the Bradenton school. Islander Photo: Courtesy Gy “Dad” yatros

Damir Glavan, playing for Sato, gets his head on a corner kick amid a sea of Solid Rock Construction defenders during May 16 soccer action at the Center of anna Maria Island. Islander Photo: Kevin P. Cassidy

Lyngbya invades local waters, impacting water, air quality

By Capt. Danny Stasny Islander Reporter

Anna Maria Island anglers fishing the inland waters of Tampa Bay southward to Sarasota Bay are plagued by floating mats of Lyngbya.

Also know as gumbo, the floating algae is limiting the options on where to fish.

Lyngbya wollei is a filamentous cyanobacteria, a blue-green algae that grows in tropical and subtropical waters and is capable of producing secondary metabolites that act as feeding deterrents to crabs, shorebirds and fish.

Changes in temperature and increases in nutrients such as nitrogen and phosphorus can cause Lyngbya to grow exponentially, which results in the floating mats we now see in local waters.

Increased human populations around our watershed causes increases in nutrients from sewage, septic tanks, agricultural fields and fertilized lawns. This combined with an increase in paved surfaces impacts the natural filtration of vegetation, which in turn releases nutrients into waterways via drainage ditches, groundwater, rivers, runoff and storms, triggering mass blooms of Lyngbya.

Once the Lyngbya has surfaced, it ebbs and flows with tides, eventually washing up on shorelines and choking canal systems, causing a void in sea life, as well as emitting a pungent odor.

The large mats also pose a threat to intakes on boat engines, causing them to overheat or malfunction.

And Lyngbya can cause a mild skin irritation and asthma-like symptoms for some people.

Now that you have a general understanding of Lyngbya, I guess the real question is what can we do to prevent it or at least minimize it?

Limit development. While the horse is out of the barn in Manatee County and running fast and far down the road … we can see this will never happen, as has been proven by the expansions east of Interstate-75. With many developments, golf courses and communities lining the Manatee River, it’s safe to say we can expect to see more Lyngbya in the years to come.

And with the addition of the development on the eastern shore of Sarasota Bay by Long Bar, it is only

SPORTS FROM PaGE 24

earned the day’s bragging rights with a 21-15 victory over Howcroft.

Play gets underway at 9 a.m. Wednesdays and Saturdays at the Anna Maria pits. Warmups begin at 8:45 a.m., followed by random team selection. There is no charge to play.

Perfect for the day

Two walkers met in the final and Bob Hawks, pictured, earned the days bragging rights after a 21-15 win over Gary Howcroft.

We asked Capt. Scott Moore this week — on being honored with a boat ramp named for him (cover story) — for a fishing photo and he produced an oldie from “years ago,” according to him, from the 1980s, of New york yankees baseball team owner George Steinbrenner. He fished with Moore for a grand slam, trout, redfish and snook, and got his wish.

a matter of time before we see a decline in water quality in Sarasota Bay.

As individuals we can minimize the amount of fertilizer we use on lawns. This is especially important the closer you live to the water.

Maintaining septic tanks — which still exist in a large swath of NW Bradenton — to ensure they function properly is advantageous, although the elimination of them altogether is the best scenario.

Also, educating each other on measures we can take to ensure quality standards for future generations.

On a positive note, the Manatee County commissioners unanimously voted 5–0 May 14 that the north Coquina boat ramp will be renamed the Capt. Scott Moore Boat Ramp. Congratulations to Moore, a true pioneer on the Gulf coast of Florida when it comes to fishing and the preservation of local resources. Thanks, Scott, for being there for all of us.

On my Just Reel charters, I’m seeing plenty of spotted seatrout being caught in areas where there’s

no Lyngbya.

Deep flats with good tidal flow are producing the best action for trout and free-lined shiners are working as bait.

Other species, such as mackerel, jack crevalle, ladyfish and bluefish, are being caught in the mix.

Fishing along mangrove shorelines is yielding snook and redfish. This bite is best on higher parts of the tide.

Also, blacktip sharks are on the prowl — on the flats and along the beaches — which is making them targetable for anglers who wish to hook into a large fish.

Capt. Johnny Mattay is working the backcountry as strong winds and rough seas are keeping him from the Gulf. Targeting redfish along mangrove shorelines and around oyster bars is yielding some good action.

Casting live shiners in these areas results in redfish 22-30 inches. Snook are in the same areas. Again, live shiners as bait are leading to many hookups with linesiders. Most are 20-30 inches. Both the reds and snook are found during the higher stages of the tide.

Spotted trout are another species Mattay is targeting. Fishing deeper grass flats in depths of 4-8 feet is resulting in plenty of trout, as well as ladyfish, jacks and mackerel. Most trout catches are in the slot of 15-19 inches, with a few larger examples mixed in.

On days when Capt. David White can venture offshore into the Gulf of Mexico, he’s finding good action for his clients by fishing over ledges and reefs. Red grouper are being caught while using pinfish as bait and limits of fish are being caught on most days. Mangrove snapper are being caught while fishing offshore. Snapper are reacting better to offerings of live shiners as bait.

Migratory fish such as jack crevalle and blackfin tuna are being found around offshore wrecks, where free-lined live shiners are working best as bait.

Moving inshore, White says spotted seatrout and Spanish mackerel are keeping him busy.

Lastly, while fishing along the beaches, White is catching blacktip sharks while using fresh cut pieces of mackerel for bait.

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

Stasny

Nesting notes

By Masha Dolgoff

Code checks on the shore

Monitoring the beaches by code compliance officials is an essential component of creating a safe and productive habitat for sea turtles on Anna Maria Island during nesting season.

The season lasts through Oct. 31. During this period, female sea turtles go ashore to leave a clutch of eggs in nests that remain unattended until they yield a new generation of hatchlings.

As of May 17, 48 nests were observed by Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring. AMITW also had documented 39 false crawls, incidents when turtles abandon a nest attempt.

Human interference — improper lighting of property along the beachfront, for example — can distract adult turtles from nesting and also lead hatchlings away from water.

Humans also can interfere by distracting the large female turtles with fl ashlights and cellphone lighting.

The Islander spoke to officials from island cities about code compliance during nesting season, as each municipality has regulations to enforce.

Jayson Clayton, code compliance officer in Holmes Beach, said his division started checking the beach in April.

“I’m out there either after sunset or before sunrise just to see if anything’s changed or if there are any infractions,” he said May 1.

If there is lighting that is too bright, Clayton said he contacts the property owner or manager right away.

Police Chief John Cosby described a similar pro-

a sea turtle is observed nesting on an aMI beach — in daylight — May 16. Islander

Photo: Courtesy Manatee County Sheriff’s Office

cess in Bradenton Beach, saying in an interview May 2 that the city is in close contact with AMITW.

Cosby said staff go out at night to look for issues and, to date, the lighting is mostly under control.

“We had a couple areas where we’re having issues with streetlights and the city’s working with (Florida Power & Light Company) to make those corrections,” Cosby said.

Anna Maria city clerk LeAnne Addy said via email May 3 that the northernmost city also monitors the beaches as needed.

She said code enforcement officers have attended multiple workshops on the importance of turtle- and wildlife-friendly lighting.

Besides lighting, obstacles — beach toys, furni-

ture and human-made holes and sand castles — can impede a sea turtle’s movement.

Addy said the Anna Maria public works department patrols the beach looking for litter and items left on the shore.

Both Clayton and Cosby said they fill holes, which can be especially obstructive.

Clayton also said a county worker uses a sandgrater and travels 15-20 blocks north and 5-10 blocks south from its base at the Manatee Public Beach at 4000 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, raking the sand.

“It’s a collaborative effort,” he said. “It needs to be everyone that watches out for the beach.”

Dispatch from the beach

Turtles have been coming in strong the week of May 13, with a great increase in the number of crawls over the week prior.

The least tern colony is doing well and the number of nests in the colony increased to 12 the week of May 13.

We continue to see a lot of large holes on the beach and would like to encourage the public to fi ll their holes and level their sandcastles to create a flat beach before they leave for the day, so that turtles do not get stuck in them.

— Kristen Mazzarella, aMITW executive director

as of May 17, there were 48 sea turtle nests and 39 false crawls documented on aMI beaches.

421 Pine Avenue Anna

3016

$3,925,000

are made at The Oar House! Nestled on Pine Avenue in the heart of Anna Maria Island, this luxury home is the ideal sanctuary providing easy access to the pristine beaches, charming shops, and all the fabulous restaurants that Anna Maria has to offer. With such attention to detail, exquisite craftsmanship, and unparalleled amenities this property is a true gem in the heart of paradise. Enjoy yourself or reap big returns with its extraordinary short term rental program

This inviting vacation investment property

By Lisa Neff

Share the love, share the shore Sunscreen? Check.

Beach towel? Check.

Icy beverage? Of course.

Compassion and care? Bring some.

Throngs of people will be bound for the beach for the three-day Memorial Day weekend. Some might arrive with only a beach blanket tucked under an arm. Others will trudge across the sand with wagons loaded of stuff — chairs, tents, umbrellas, coolers, skimboards, buckets, shovels and more.

But the one necessity a beachgoer needs to pack is a care for nature that involves a commitment to leaving only footprints.

We always are sharing the AMI shore and shallows with other species but now through the fall is a critical period for nesting and hatchling sea turtles, mating manatees, nesting shorebirds and more.

Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring already has documented sea turtles nesting on the island, as well as a small colony of least terns.

For us, the beach brings pleasure.

For them, the beach is crucial to survival. So, please, do your part.

Sea turtles

Through October, AMI’s beaches serve as a habitat for nesting sea turtles, mostly loggerheads but also greens.

Most nesting activity occurs overnight, when the beaches should be dark, devoid of artificial light that can disorient turtles, as well as clear of obstacles that can entrap or entangle sea turtles.

Shorebirds

During the day, beachgoers aren’t likely to encounter sea turtles but they will be sharing the beach with gulls, terns, pelicans, skimmers and other birds.

Conservation agencies ask people to:

• Follow any posted rules for the beaches, including prohibitions against riding bicycles and motorized vehicles, setting campfires, lighting fireworks and walking pets.

Royal

terns May 15 on the beach near the Coconut avenue access in anna Maria. Islander Photo: Lisa Neff

• Give birds space. Flushing birds when they are trying to eat or rest stresses them and can hinder or prevent them from feeding chicks or refueling for long flights.

• Don’t litter the beach, including food waste, which can attract predators, like raccoons, that prey on birds and eggs.

• Don’t feed birds. Human food is not part of a bird’s natural diet. Also, feeding gulls can increase their population in an area, causing a disturbance to some of the imperiled species we are trying to protect.

Manatees

Summer’s warm water temperatures draw manatees into swim zones.

Seeing a manatee up close might be thrilling but keep in mind that the West Indian manatee is an imperiled species and is protected by state and federal law. People by law must avoid harassing manatees, which is defined as any activity that alters the animal’s natural behavior.

Some basic rules:

• Don’t feed manatees or give them water. If manatees become accustomed to being around people, they can alter their behavior in the wild, perhaps causing them to lose their natural fear of boats and humans, which may make them more susceptible to harm.

• Do not pursue or chase a manatee if you see one while you are swimming, snorkeling, diving, paddling or operating a boat.

• Never pet, poke, prod or stab a manatee with your hands, feet or any object.

• Avoid excessive noise and splashing if a manatee appears nearby. The manatee might be resting and might surface without being aware of your presence.

• Give manatees space to move. Avoid isolating or singling out an individual manatee from its group and do not separate a cow and its calf.

We usually don’t get through summer on AMI without at least one video surfacing of a swimmer petting a manatee.

But let’s try. Please, save the pets for the pets, which will be waiting for you at home, right?

Manatees in shallow Gulf waters near 53rd Street in Holmes Beach in april 2023. Photographer Deborah Trotter of Holmes Beach wrote, “Eleven manatees came up the beach in the shallow water. They stopped here for about 20 minutes to mate.” She added, “What an amazing and beautiful place we live in.”

Neff

ITEMS FOR SALE

FLOOR JOIST H a NGERS: 2-by-8-inch. 50 cents each. Six pilings, $15 each. 941-7785542.

BOSU HOME GYM, $35, exercise ball, $25, side tables, round, glass top, 2/$19, black chairs, soft leather 2/$20. 941-920-2494.

SOFA: ASHLEY. PURCHASED in August, brand new, just wanted something else. $600. Contact 860-836-2495.

TECHNICS FIVE-DISC CD player, $25. albert Nestler 1940s #21-wood slide rule, $25. Bill, 724-986-0314.

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

FREEBIE ITEMS FOR SALE

ANNOUNCEMENTS

EaRLy DEaDLINE! THE Islander office will be closed Monday, May 27 to observe Memorial Day. The classified ad deadline for the May 29 newspaper will be 2 p.m. Friday, May 24.

GARAGE SALES

GaRaGE SaLE: 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday. May 25. Large selection of reasonably priced fishing rods and reels. 528 67th St., Holmes Beach. Weather permitting.

HOUSEHOLD SALE: 8 a.m.-noon Saturday, May 25. Furniture, washer/dryer, Bote paddleboard, yakima roof rack and more. Priced to sell. Everything must go! 406 72nd St., Holmes Beach.

LOST & FOUND

SERVICES

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

CLEANING: VACATION, CONSTRUCTION, residential, commercial and windows. Licensed and insured. 941-756-4570.

PRESSURE WASHING, PAVER sealing, driveway, roof, fence, pool area. a lso, window cleaning. Licensed and insured. 941-5653931.

BICyCLE REPaIRS: Just4Fun at 5358 Gulf Drive can do most any bicycle repair at a reasonable cost. Pick-up and delivery available. 941-896-7884.

aPI’S DRyWaLL REPaIR: I look forward to servicing your drywall repair needs. Call 941524-8067 to schedule an appointment.

Individuals may place one free ad with up to three items, each priced $100 or less, 15 words or less. FREE, one week, must be submitted online. Email classifieds@islander.org. (limited time offer). Paradise Improvements 941.792.5600 Kitchen and Bath Remodeling Specialist Replacement Doors and Windows Andrew Chennault FULLY LICENSED AND INSURED Island References Lic#CBC056755

Sandy’s Lawn Service Inc.

ESTABLISHED IN 1983 Residential & Commercial Full-service lawn maintenance. Landscaping ~ Cleanups Hauling ~ Tree Trimming. LICENSED & INSURED

Residential & Condo Renovations Kitchens • Bath • Design Ser vice Carpentr y • Flooring • Painting Commercial & Residential RDI CONSTRUCTION INC. References available • 941-720-7519

LOST BRaCELET: May 10. $100 reward. Sterling silver cuff, gemstones. Sunset between Cedar avenue beach access to shoreline. 727-687-0977.

TRANSPORTATION

GOLF CaRT RENTaLS: Fun for residents and tourists! 212-941-2402. www.GolfCartRentalaMI.com.

BOATS & BOATING

HaVE a BOaT and wanna catch more fish, better bait or learn the water? 50-year local fisherman, your boat, my knowledge. Captain Chris, 941-896-2915.

SUNCOAST BOTTOM PAINTING: Professional bottom painting. Mobile. Call 941-7049382.

CaPTaIN FOR HIRE and boat caretaker services: If you need help with your boat on or off the water, call Captain Dan. USCG, retired. 772-486-8085.

WELCOME aBOaRD JOyFISH Charters for private fishing, sunset cruises, and dolphin watching. Check out joyfishcharters.com or follow us on Facebook. Call to reserve, 941840-3181.

HELP WANTED

P a RT-TIME DOCKM a STER position available. 8-10 hours per week. Dock On The Bay Marina. Contact 941-3136496.

COMMERCI a L Pa INTERS NEEDED. Minimum three years’ experience and valid driver license. Call weekdays 8am-4pm, 941-7464452.

a NN a M a RI a RESIDENT looking to hire a real gardener to maintain plants for summer months. Contact Chuck Bode at 410-3659028.

SMUGGLER’S COVE/GULF Stream Beach Resort activity person needed. Four days during the week, 20-24 hours per week. Please, call 941-779-2804 for more details.

NOW HIRING HaNDyMaN: Full-time professional services. $18 an hour and up, based on experience. Call JayPros, 941-962-2874.

KIDS FOR HIRE

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

CLE a N TECH MOBILE Detailing. a t your location. Cars, boats, RVs. Call or text Billie for an appointment. 941-592-3482.

PC OR TECH issues? Not sure where to start? With years of experience, I’ll come to you with reliable solutions. Contact Gavin at 928-587-1309. www.gse.codes.

PAINTING: INTERIOR/EXTERIOR: Sarasota interior painting. Call or text Don, 941-9009398. We are the best high-end painting! Just ask our aMI clients! I’m the owner and the painter. Free estimates. Fully insured licensed business.

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

PRIVaTE CaREGIVER: DO you need help with groceries, doctors’ appointments, cleaning, care for pet, care for elderly or companion. I am looking for a part-time job. I have references and very experienced. I have integrity and I can help you and your loved ones with anything! Sparkles, 941-704-9948.

AFFORDABLE PRESSURE WASHING and vacation cleaning service. 941-356-1456.

GORILL a DRy Wa LL REPa IR LLC. Let’s solve your drywall problems together. Give us a call at 941-286-0607.

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

LOOK NO MORE! Residential, vacation rental and commercial cleaning. Give us a call, 941250-8548.

BUSINESS-TO-BUSINESS JD’s Window Cleaning looking for storefront jobs in Holmes Beach. I make dirty windows sparkling clean. 941-920-3840.

BE a CH SERVICE air conditioning, heat, refrigeration. Commercial and residential service, repair and/or replacement. Serving Manatee County and the Island since 1987. For dependable, honest and personalized service, call Bill Eller, 941-720-7411. CaC184228.

More ads = more readers in The Islander.

LAWN & GARDEN

CONNIE’S LaNDSCaPING INC. Residential and commercial. Full-service lawn maintenance, landscaping, cleanups, hauling and more! Insured. 941-778-5294.

COLLINS LaNDSCaPE LIGHTING: Outdoor lighting, landscaping, irrigation services and maintenance. 941-279-9947. MJC24373@ gmail.com.

SHELL DELIVERED aND spread. Hauling all kinds of gravel, mulch, topsoil with free estimates. Call Larry at 941-795-7775, or “shell phone” 941-720-0770.

EaRLy DEaDLINE! THE Islander office will be closed Monday, May 27 to observe Memorial Day. The classified ad deadline for the May 29 newspaper will be 2 p.m. Friday, May 24.

HOME IMPROVEMENT

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

GRIFFIN’S HOME IMPROVEMENTS Inc.

Handyman, fine woodwork, countertops, cabinets and wood flooring. Insured and licensed. 941-722-8792.

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

SCREENING SERVICES: Replace your old or ripped window, door or porch screens. Many screen types available. Retired veteran here to serve our community! Free estimates, call Lane, 941-705-5293.

LOOKING FOR a N y home improvement?

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

BMF INTERIORS: HOME repairs and more, no job too small. 786-318-8585.

TILE-TILE-TILE: LVT vinyl flooring, all variations of porcelain and ceramic tile supplied and installed. Total bathroom remodels. Many Mt. Vernon references. Licensed and insured. Operations manager, 941-226-9671.

DON a LD PERKINS Pa INTING LLC. Interior/exterior/pressure washing. Island references. dperkinspaint@hotmail.com. 941705-7096.

CaLL HyDRO CLEaN. Full-service pressure washing, sealing. Pavers, travertine and natural stone. Window washing too, up to three stories. Call Jacob, 941-920-2094.

RENTALS

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

PERICO ISL a ND PaTIO home for rent. 3BR/2BA, 30-day minimum. Privacy fence/ gate, two miles to a MI. Now leasing May through December, 2024. $4,500/month. Call or text, 859-771-6423. http://pericoislandrental.com/

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

RENTALS Continued

ANNUAL RENTAL: VILLA home in Perico Bay Club, Bradenton. Gated and 24-hour security. 2BR/2BA, updated. Updated kitchen, screened deck and two-car garage. Unfurnished. Text 908-875-0299 for information.

SEASONAL OR ANNUAL rental: 55-plus, friendly community, bottom floor. Sleeps four, 1.5BA. Beach access. $3,400/month. 847769-9080.

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

2BR/2BA HOLMES BEACH. Westbay Point. Second-floor, furnished condo, beautiful bay views. No pets, no smoking. Six months, $2,850/month. 941-778-2824.

HOLMES BEACH 2BR/2BA elevated furnished duplex with one-car garage. No pets, no smoking. Six months, $2,850/month plus utilities. 941-778-2824.

FOR RENT: HOLMES Beach 2BR/2/BA ground-level. Five-minute walk to beach, quiet area. No animals, one parking spot.

available June, July, august. Summer rate, $2,300/month plus tax. Please, text or email for more information. Louann Lehto, +1 403512-2350. dlehto@telus.net

FLaMINGO By THE Bay condo for rent on Palma Sola Bay. Second floor with a view. 1BR/1BA with boat dock. Annual rental, $1,800/month. 941-224-0836.

PERICO BAY CLUB deluxe villa. 2BR/2BA, garage, turnkey furnished. $3,000 monthly. Real Estate Mart, 941-356-1456.

SE a SON a L RENTa L: Bradenton 55-plus community. Large 2BR/2BA condo on bay, exceptional views. Elevator and 5 minutes to bridge. No smoking, No pets. $4,650/month. Three-month minimum. Photos at https:// barbaragillespie.wixsite.com/47872024. 732748-0759

2BR/2BA WHITNEY BEACH condo. Gorgeous first-floor bay side updated and water view. Minimum 30 days. a vailable various months second half of 2023. 301767−7217. g3rmany@yahoo.com

REAL ESTATE

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

COASTAL LUXURY: 4BR/4.5BA, pool, sold turnkey furnished for immediate move-in. Meticulously maintained, never rented, includes golf cart and electric beach wagon for island exploration! an absolute must-see! Call 941-685-6850 or email Team@HuntBrothersRealty.com for more info.

HOLMES BEACH HOUSE: Beach lifestyle, 3BR/2BA. Enjoy a chef’s kitchen, fenced yard, pool and screened porch complete the beach lifestyle. Oversized garage. Minutes from Gulf beaches. $1,599,900. Beth Beckert Call or text, 941-720-3676. Sarasota Global Realty. 2BR/2BA HOME for sale. 3,000 sfur. 1,100 sf garage. Steps to beach. $1,449,000. 941518-6329.

CONDO FOR SALE or lease. 2BR/2BA at the west end of Bradenton Riverwalk. Downtown walk-a-bout community features library, performing art center, creative art center and galleries. Shoppes, fine and casual dining. $280,000. Florida Suncoast Real Estate, Geri Kenyon, 941-725-4374.

AFFORDABLE 2BR/2BA VILLA near beach. Completely upgraded. $285,000. Real Estate Mart, 941-356-1456.

EaRLy DEaDLINE! THE Islander office will be closed Monday, May 27 to observe Memorial Day. The classified ad deadline for the May 29 newspaper will be 2 p.m. Friday, May 24.

By Robyn Murrell

Notary officiates on AMI

White sand beaches, clear waters and spectacular sunsets make Anna Maria Island the perfect backdrop for a wedding.

Nancy J. Taussig, in her 40-year career, has officiated hundreds of beach weddings on AMI.

Taussig’s company is Barefoot Weddings, which offers customized weddings, vow renewals and babywelcoming ceremonies in Manatee and Sarasota counties with no ceremony considered too big, too small or too short notice.

In addition to beach weddings, Taussig officiates at museums, botanical gardens, country clubs, private homes, even McDonald’s and Starbucks.

She said most clients come from out of state and they choose AMI for destination weddings because they can fly in, check into accommodations and go to the courthouse and get their marriage license. If one is a Florida resident, she can marry the couple the same day and they have the rest of the week to honeymoon.

Taussig isn’t a wedding planner, she’s a notary. But she will recommend florists, photographers and caterers, as well as direct people to the Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce for advice on lodging.

For more information, call 941-951-1440 or go online at barefootweddings.com.

Nancy Taussig officiates the marriage of angela Hale and Steven Meadows of Indiana May 13 on Siesta Key in Sarasota. Islander

Photo: Courtesy photographybylisae. com

CANALFRONT BEAUTIFULLY

UPDATED

4 blocks to Gulf of Mexico beach LONGBOAT KEY VILLAGE

$1,250,000

GREAT OPPORTUNITIES in WEST BRADENTON

Swinging success

Val Cablish, left, Kathy Cablish, Homer Cablish and Jake Cablish pose on the putting green May 10. They placed first in the 25th annual anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce Golf Tournament at IMG academy Golf Club, 4350 El Conquistador Parkway, Bradenton. Twenty-five teams competed and the funds raised — the chamber did not provide a total as of press time — will go toward the chamber’s scholarship fund. Each golfer on the first-place team took home $100 gift cards to the Ugly Grouper in Holmes Beach. Jordan Miller, Lance Plowman, Ryan young and Donny Johnson of Florida Fishing Fleet placed second and also won the putting contest. Matthew Berube, David Berube and Perry Schlinz of CG & B Printing placed third. Islander

BizCal

Photo: Courtesy aMICC Monica Newcomer

Coldwell Banker Realtor call/text 941-545-4980 monicanewcomer@aol.com

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Thursday, May 23

By Robyn Murrell

THIS WEEK

5-7 p.m. — Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce business card exchange with Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring, Timber Creek Golf Course, 4550 Timber Lane, Bradenton. Information: 941-778 1541 or email ingrid@amichamber.org.

SAVE THE DATES

June 6, 8-9:30 a.m., AMI chamber breakfast, Mademoiselle Paris, 9906 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria. June 13, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m., AMI chamber luncheon, Westminster Manor, 1700 21st Ave. W., Bradenton. Send calendar listings to robyn@islander.org.

PropertyWatch

By Carol Bernard

Island real estate

305 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, a 2580 sq ft 4BR 3BA pool home on a 7,540 sq ft lot built in 1982 sold 4/10/2024 by Rozhon to Mona Lisa LLC for $2,100,000, list price $2,300,000.

416 Spring Ave., Anna Maria, a 2360 sq ft 3BR 3BA pool home on a 7,540 sq ft lot built in 2011 sold 4/9/2024 by Reikie to Stanley Prop LLC for $2,750,000, list price $2,795,000.

142 Crescent Drive, Anna Maria, a 2163 sq ft 4BR 5BA pool home on a 5,502 sq ft lot built in 2021 sold 4/10/2024 by Charter Trust to Close Trust for $2,995,000, list price $2,995,000.

704 South Bay Blvd., Anna Maria, a 2852 sq ft 4BR 3BA pool home on a 5,101 sq ft lot built in 2013 sold 4/8/2024 by Pashley to 704 South Bay LLC for $5,050,000, list price $5,495,000.

533 Key Royale Drive, Holmes Beach, a 3125 sq ft 4BR 5BA pool home on a 21,388 sq ft lot built in 1995 sold 4/4/2024 by Cappello Trust to 533 Key Royale Dr LLC $2,880,000, list price $2,875,000. Compiled by Island Real Estate staff. IRE can be reached at 941-778-6066, islandreal.com.

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