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Special delivery. 18 Astheworldterns look forward to ﬁshing. 6

Fashionable ‘cruise.’ 19

‘Beach Therapy.’ 27 FEB. 27, 2019 FREE

VOLUME 27, NO. 18

Bradenton Beach accepts KORN ruling. 2 Looking to session, local officials seek to protect home rule. 4

Meetings

On the government calendar. 4 AM adopts 2019 vacation rental fees. 5

Op-Ed

The Islander editorial, reader letters. 6

10-20 YEARS AGO

From the archives. 7

Happenings

Community announcements, activities. 10-11 Make plans, save a date. 12-13 HB planners plan for comp plan review. 14 Onstage at AME. 15

New WMFR chief on horizon? District signs union contract. 17

Gathering. 20

Obituaries.

FISH reports catch from Cortez fest. 22

Streetlife. 25 Flag football semifinals, horseshoe medals. 28

Flats fishing heats up. 29

ISL BIZ Cooking up business. 30 CLASSIFIEDS. 32 M I A T A S

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

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NYT crossword puzzle. 35

Celebrating the Best News on Anna Maria Island Since 1992

www.islander.org

T-end pilings set, walkway pile-driving to begin

By Ryan Paice Islander Reporter It’s smooth sailing for the new Anna Maria City Pier. Work driving T-end pilings for the pier finished Feb. 21. Work on walkway pilings soon will follow. Anna Maria Mayor Dan Murphy said Feb. 21 that i+iconSOUTHEAST had completed driving 70 14-inch diameter concrete T-end pilings — more than a third of the 206 pilings needed for the new structure. Before Icon workers can drive the remaining 136 pilings, a work barge must return to a shipyard in Hillsborough County to load the 12-inch diameter concrete pilings for the walkway. Murphy said Icon remains on schedule to finish pile driving in March. He said work has proceeded as planned, keeping up a pace of driving seven-eight piles a day. Icon has worked six days a week due to a late start that began Feb. 1, including working Presidents Day Feb. 18. The 50-foot pilings are driven 30 feet into the sand and clay bottom in Tampa Bay using a combination of jetting and hammer driving. Uneven pile ends will be leveled off before decking is installed. The T-end platform will be made of concrete and topped with ipe wood. Wood bents will shoulder the load of ipe decking used for the pier walkway. The city’s contract with Icon requires the contractor to complete the pier walkway and T-end by Aug. 26 or pay a $975 penalty for every workday after. The city has yet to address building the restaurant and bait shop at the T-end.

Evelyn and Don Miller, visiting Anna Maria Island from Wisconsin, look over the water Feb. 21 where i+iconSOUTHEAST employees work on constructing the new Anna Maria City Pier. Icon workers had finished driving pilings for the T-end of the pier earlier in the week, according to Anna Maria Mayor Dan Murphy. Islander Photo: Ryan Paice

Bradenton Beach receives FEMA funds from Irma damages

By Ryan Paice Islander Reporter The city of Bradenton Beach finally is receiving federal money for damages incurred almost a year and a half ago. Bradenton Beach Police Lt. John Cosby reported to city commissioners Feb. 21 that the Federal Emergency Management Agency will repay the city $35,942.28 for expenses incurred as a result of Hurricane Irma in September 2017. The state already repaid $2,657.13 of the $41,256.53 total cost for the damages. Cosby, who took the lead on communicating the city’s costs to FEMA, said expenses include $7,335 for damage to city hall, $7,291.53 for emergency protective measures taken by the police department and $21,180 for removal of vegetation Sept. 18-Oct. 17, 2017. He said as of Feb. 21, the city had received money for all but the removal of vegetation. However, the city should receive payment for the debris removal within the next couple of weeks. “Everything went well,” Cosby told

commissioners. “We’re getting every penny back that we put in for. There were really no hiccups.” City attorney Ricinda Perry injected a compliment for Cosby’s efforts. “I think it’s impressive that you were able to do this in the way that you did, in such an efficient way, and that you didn’t need to use my department in any way, shape or form,” Perry said. “I think that speaks to the high level of intellect with which you approach the process.” “I’m going to need a copy of this tape for my wife,” Cosby joked. Cosby added that the police department is updating the city emergency management plan and would like to schedule a workshop with commissioners in May to discuss changes, as well as detail the process. Hurricane season begins June 1.

Bradenton Beach Police Lt. John Cosby tells city commissioners Feb. 21 about reimbursement from FEMA for damages that resulted from Hurricane Irma in September 2017. Islander Photo: Ryan Paice

2 n FEb. 27, 2019 n THE ISLANDER

Bradenton Beach accepts KORN ruling, takes up ballot plans

Red tide recovery continues with redfish release

Local marine life is getting a little help from humans. More than 2,000 juvenile redfish are set to be released at Robinson Preserve in west Manatee County. The Feb. 26 release was to address the loss to the redfish population on the Southwest Florida coast due to red tide, according to a news release from the county. The program was announced in fall 2018. Another 6,000 redfish will be released in March. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, the Coastal Conservation Association Florida and Duke Energy are releasing the all-hatchery-reared fish. The program also released more than 8,000 redfish in Pasco, Hillsborough, Pinellas and Sarasota counties. According to the FWC, recent water samples taken from the coastal areas in Southwest Florida have shown only natural, background levels of Karenia brevis, the organism that causes red tide. As of Feb. 15, FWC said reported n red tide in the waters surrounding the entire state.

Bradenton Beach mayor and commissioners chose not to appeal the ruling and instead hold a work meeting to determine the ballot language for the initiatives. At a June 21, 2018, city meetMetz ing, the mayor and commissioners voted against placing KORN’s charter amendments on the ballot. City attorney Ricinda Perry said the amendments would violate the city charter and did not fully comply with state law. Arend disagreed. KORN’s charter proposals are: • Prohibit the construction of a multilevel parking garage anywhere in the city; • Require city commission vacancies be filled by election; • Prevent construction within setbacks; • Install a certified public manager as chief executive officer of the city. Following a Sept. 6, 2018, hearing requested by KORN founders Reed Mapes and John Metz to direct the city to put KORN’s proposed charter amendments on a ballot, the judge issued the order mandating the city write the ballot language for inclusion in a special

citywide election or the next regular election. “As I have reviewed the order from the judge a number of times, it really becomes clear that he split the baby in his order,” city attorney Ricinda Perry said Feb. 21. Before the ruling, anyone could put language on the ballot, she said. The judge has now eliminated the petitioner from the process. “So while the initiatives can go forward, the city now has 100 percent control over the content that goes to the voters,” Perry said. Chappie Mayor John Chappie supported a work meeting, saying “the language was the concern and now it’s clear we are responsible for it.” Chappie asked Perry if the city must include all the initiatives, even if KORN agrees to eliminate them. Perry responded that any petition Perry that receives the requisite number of signatures, such as the KORN petitions, must be placed on a ballot. “That’s the disappointing part,” Perry said. This city will now have to put successful petition initiatives on the ballot for the electorate to decide. Coastal Conservation Association Florida is partnering with Duke Energy Mariculture Center to bring 2,000 juvenile and adult redfish to Robinson Preserve in west Bradenton. The fish, reared in hatcheries and donated by Duke, represent an effort to offset the damage caused by red tide in 2018. Red fish were to be released Feb. 26 in Robinson Preserve, after The Islander went to press for Feb. 27. Islander Photo: Courtesy CCAFL

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By ChrisAnn Silver Esformes Islander Reporter Bradenton Beach decided to move forward on a judge’s order. In his final order Feb. 6, Judge Lon Arend of the Manatee County 12th Judicial Circuit Court determined four ballot initiatives proposed by the political action committee Keep Our Residential Neighborhoods must be submitted by the city to the Manatee County Supervisor of Elections Office for verification for a future ballot. Mapes In a unanimous vote Feb. 21, the

THE ISLANDER n Feb. 27, 2019 n 3

Center-BACVB events lack expense details

By Ryan Paice Islander Reporter The ticket prices are reasonable, but at what cost? Halfway through four concerts planned at the Center of Anna Maria Island, questions regarding expenses and vendors remain unanswered. While gross revenue for the first two concerts has been reported, concert-related expenses â€” such as the entertainment and producer fees, and costs for equipment rentals and purchases, fees paid for parking valets and the cost to revamp the centerâ€™s stage â€” have yet to be disclosed to the public despite being funded by tax dollars. Additionally, no explanation has been given for hiring the Sandbar Restaurant for the concession at the first two concerts. The restaurant is owned by Ed Chiles, who also serves as a member of the Manatee County Tourist Development Council â€” the same council that recommended county commissioners allocate tourism tax dollars to fund the concerts. When asked by The Islander for a list of genChiles also is a former board member at the center. The Islander also is not aware of the center taking eral expenses relating to the centerâ€™s concerts, center bids for the food and beverage service at the con- executive director Chris Culhane emailed that no expenses would be disclosed to the public before a certs. final report is released in April. When asked if the centerâ€™s use of the Sandbar to serve food and drinks at the first two concerts was Milestones discussed or approved by the Bradenton Area ConThe Islander welcomes stories about islandvention and Visitors Bureau, executive director Elliott ers and island life, as well as photographs and Falcione said the bureau was not involved with the notices of the milestones in readersâ€™ lives â€” weddecision. He said the BACVB is sponsoring the series dings, births, anniversaries, travels, obituaries of concerts and celebrity visits, but the center manand other events. ages the concerts hosted at its venue and is responSubmit your announcements and photographs sible for their own planning. with captions for publication â€” along with conWhile Culhane did not respond to calls Feb. 17 tact information â€” to news@islander.org. and Feb. 20, he wrote in an email Feb. 23 that â€œSevAlso, visit us on Facebook and join the eral vendors were considered for the concert series 12,300-plus friends who â€œlikeâ€? The Islander and and the Sandbar was chosen for many reasons.â€? share their social news. Center board chair David Zaccagnino responded

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Staff from the Sandbar Restaurant serve beverages to audience members Feb. 8 at the Phil Vassar concert at the Center of Anna Maria Island. Islander Photo: Ryan Paice

to The Islanderâ€™s call, but said he could not explain the use of the Sandbar for food and drinks, nor provide any expenses. Chiles did not respond to a call and voicemail message Feb. 19. Chiles also hosted an art show and reception at the Studio at Gulf and Pine in Anna Maria, which he also owns, featuring work for sale by celebrity actress-artist Jane Seymour, as part of the BACVBTDC drive to improve the island economy following a drought from red tide. Expenses related to Seymourâ€™s visit to Bradenton and Anna Maria Island also were not disclosed. The BACVB and Realize Bradenton, a nonprofit that promotes economic development in downtown Bradenton, purchased a large outdoor sculpture for permanent display at Bradenton Riverwalk from Seymour that was unveiled Jan. 19, but the purchase price was not disclosed.

4 n FEb. 27, 2019 n THE ISLANDER

Home rule top legislative priority in Holmes Beach — on AMI By ChrisAnn Silver Esformes government regulations. Islander Reporter The bill, filed Feb. 7, was referred Holmes Beach is no stranger to the struggle to as of Feb. 20 to innovation, industry protect home rule. and technology; community affairs; Starting last year with the 2018 legislative session, and appropriations subcommittees. the city employed lobbyist Cari Roth to oppose legisla“If this were to pass, it would Titsworth tion that would weaken local regulatory power. basically destroy every ordinance that For the 2019 session, which we have” regarding vacation rentals, will begin March 5, Holmes Beach Commissioner Rick Hurst said at the renewed a $50,000 annual contract Feb. 12 city meeting. with Roth. He then asked, “Am I reading this Roth will continue to fight for correctly?” home rule, monitoring Senate Bill Mayor Judy Titsworth said, “No Roth 824, legislation sponsored by Sen. Hurst limits of occupancy, no limits of Manny Diaz Jr., R-Hialeah, to give length-of-stay, it would pretty much oversight of vacation rentals to the state and limit local get rid of our vacation rental program. So we are going

In the Senate chambers

Manatee County Commissioners Carol Whitmore, left, Vanessa Baugh, Betsy Benac, Misty Servia and Steve Jonsson look on Feb. 20, as Senate President Bill Galvano, R-Bradenton, shares his view from the podium in the Senate chambers in Tallahassee. Islander Courtesy Photo

to take the same approach we’ve done in the past. We’re going to reach out and come up with a sample letter of issues we object to and why.” City attorney Patricia Petruff suggested commissioners disseminate information about the bill and others that could affect vacation rental regulations to their constituents. Additionally, Petruff said Roth asked commissioners to submit notes to her regarding SB 824 and other bills of concern and she would “argue on our behalf the way we want her to argue or to present.” Hurst asked Petruff if Roth knew any odds of SB 824 passing and Petruff responded, “Right now there is a lot of what I’d call jockeying going on. Yes, we’ve seen some of this language before, and so you don’t know what type of horse-trading might be going on.” SB 824 is similar to SB 1400, filed by state Sen. Greg Steube, R-Sarasota, to regulate vacation rentals in 2018, and SB 188, filed by Steube in 2017. Neither of Steube’s bills passed. Petruff said SB 824 is extreme in its attempt to remove home rule in the face of private property rights. “I just think that bill probably goes way too far,” she said. “I’d like to think that it wouldn’t have a chance of passing, but I’ve learned never to predict the outcome of votes” in session, the city attorney said.

In session

Legislation being considered by state representatives in session can be tracked online at www.flsenate.gov and myfloridahouse.gov.

Bradenton Beach also seeks protection for home rule

By Ryan Paice Islander Reporter Protecting home rule to regulate vacation rentals is Bradenton Beach Mayor John Chappie’s top priority for the state legislative session that opens March 5. The city hired lobbyist David Ramba from the Tallahassee-based Ramba Consulting Group to promote Ramba its interests in the Capitol for the third consecutive year. While Chappie said Ramba is helping the city research the potential impact of bills on the municipality, the lobbyist’s primary objective is clear — and nothing new.

Anna Maria looks to protect its VRO

One bill filed for the 2019 legislative session concerns Anna Maria Mayor Dan Murphy. The city is ready to lobby against Senate Bill 824, a measure filed by Sen. Manny Diaz Jr., R-Haileah, that would pre-empt the regulation of vacation rentals to the state. The bill was referred to three Senate committees Feb. 15. Murphy The city again employed lobbyist Chip Case of Jefferson Monroe Consulting LLC of Tallahassee. Case was first hired to lobby for the city in January 2017 to oppose similar legislation. Diaz’ measure would require Case vacation rental owners to apply for licensing through the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation Division of Hotels and Restaurants. “There might be others that come up in time, but that’s our main focus right now,” Murphy said in an interview Feb. 21. “Our goal is to protect home rule and maintain our rights to regulate vacation rentals.” Murphy said he would keep an eye on two other bills that might threaten the municipality’s rights to regulate vacation rentals, but neither had been moved to committees as of Feb. 21. Murphy said bills pre-empting home rule of vacation rental regulation to the state pop up because vacation rental companies have an excess of money to spend on strong lobbying factions in Tallahassee. — Ryan Paice

“As far as legislative stuff, as always, it’s about Tallahassee going after our home-rule rights and communities,” Chappie said in an interview Feb. 20. “It’s something these guys try to do every year.” The city will lobby against at least two bills that would pre-empt or repeal city vacation rental regulations, according to Chappie. The mayor said he wants to learn more about Senate Bills 812 and 814, which were introduced Feb. 6 by state Chappie Sen. David Simmons, R-Orlando. The proposals would require vacation rental property owners to purchase annual inspections from the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation Division of Hotels and Restaurants and limit municipalities’ abilities to regulate vacation rental activities. “In general, just about everything that pre-empts home rule I’m sure the board would oppose — and I

Meetings

definitely would,” Chappie said. “Local government works best. … We don’t need Tallahassee down here telling us how to run our local communities. That’s what screwed everyone up.” Also, he said, House Bill 3, introduced by state Rep. M Grant, R-Port Charlotte, would pre-empt home rule in the regulation of businesses and professions. The bill would prohibit enforcement or application of any regulation of a business or business entity that is not authorized by state law. Chappie said he is concerned the measure would nullify the requirement for business owners to purchase a license to operate Bradenton Beach. “There’s a lot of stuff in here that we need to look at and follow closely,” Chappie said. “Tallahassee has a habit of going after revenue sources that local governments have, and local governments are so limited anyhow in regard to revenue streams.” Chappie noted there would be a conference call with Rambo Mondays during session and the Florida League of Cities also would review developments in Tallahassee.

March 28, 10 a.m., charter review. Anna Maria City Holmes Beach City Hall, 5801 Marina Drive, Feb. 28, 6 p.m., city commission. 941-708-5800, holmesbeachfl.org. March 12, 4 p.m., planning and zoning. March 14, 6 p.m., city commission. Manatee County March 20, 5:30 p.m., special magistrate. March 7, 9 a.m., commission (land use). March 28, 6 p.m., city commission. March 12, 9 a.m., commission. Anna Maria City Hall, 10005 Gulf Drive, 941March 14, 9 a.m., commission (land use). 708-6130, cityofannamaria.com. March 26, 9 a.m., commission. Administration building, 1112 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton Beach Bradenton, 941-748-4501, mymanatee.org. None announced. Bradenton Beach City Hall, 107 Gulf Drive N., Of interest 941-778-1005, cityofbradentonbeach.org. March 11, 2 p.m., Island Transportation Planning Organization, Anna Maria City Hall. Holmes Beach March 25, 9:30 a.m., Sarasota/Manatee MetroFeb. 28, 10 a.m., charter review. politan Planning Organization, Holiday Inn Sarasota March 6, 10 a.m., parks and beautification. Bradenton International Airport, 8009 15th St. E., March 6, 6 p.m., planning commission. Sarasota. March 7, 10 a.m., charter review. April 2, Manatee County Council of GovernMarch 12, 6 p.m., city commission. ments, 4 p.m., Bradenton Area Convention Center, March 14, 10 a.m., charter review. 1 Haben Blvd., Palmetto. March 21, 10 a.m., charter review. Send notices to calendar@islander.org and March 26, 6 p.m., city commission. news@islander.org.

THE ISLANDER n FEb. 27, 2019 n 5

Noise discussion in Holmes Beach results in ruckus By ChrisAnn Silver Esformes Islander Reporter He said, she said, and quickly, a clatter arose on the Holmes Beach dais. At a Feb. 12 city commission meeting, Holmes Beach Mayor Judy Titsworth said she received a noise complaint at 11:15 p.m. Feb. 9 from Commissioner Kim Rash. She said, however, she was not available to take the call and he left a message. She responded the next

day by email, asking Rash, “Was the police called? I would like to know so I can find out if a citation was issued.” Rash said he called the Holmes Beach Police Department after he called her but, by the time they arrived, the noise had ceased. Titsworth also said she received a call Feb. 10 from resident Richard Motzer of 56th Street, also complaining about noise. When she asked if he contacted the HBPD, she said he responded that, in the past, calling

Anna Maria approves vacation rental fees for 2019

By Ryan Paice Islander Reporter A growing number of vacation rental registrants in Anna Maria led the city to lower registration fees in 2018-19. City commissioners approved vacation rental fees for 2018-19 at a meeting Feb. 14, including charging registered vacation rentals $36.37 per occupant — a 76-cent decrease from the occupant fee charged in 2018. However, an inspection fee increased from $50 to $55. The registration fee, which covers April 1 to March 30 of the next year, is based on the number of bedrooms in a property. Each property begins at a base occupancy of two people, plus two people per bedroom. A short-term rental with two bedrooms would be allowed an occupancy of six and the owner or manager would pay a $218.22 registration fee in 2019. The fee increases for every occupant up to a maximum of 29 and $1,054.73. There were 618 vacation rentals registered in the city as of Feb. 19. The 2018-19 registration year will begin April 1. The number of registrations has increased by 18.6 percent over the 521 registered in 2016-17. Vacation rentals make up 60 percent of the

city’s residential housing, according to Mayor Dan Murphy. When the city began registering vacation rentals near the end of 2015, a $695 flat registration fee was charged. The fee increased to $951 in 2016-17. And the fee became occupancy-based in 2017-18. Murphy said Feb. 14 the fees are prorated to recover the $158,549.36 cost to the city to enforce the vacation rental ordinance. However, fees may not remain prorated for long. Murphy said he’s considering charging new construction with fees to mitigate the impact of vacationers on infrastructure and the community. The commission discussed levying occupancybased impact fees in 2018, but Murphy said one-time impact fees on new construction would better protect the city from a legal standpoint. The current registration ordinance was adopted Nov. 19, 2015, and is posted on the city website. Vacation rental owners must register with the city annually by April 1. Registration requires submittal of an application, payment and interior and exterior site sketches. A license from the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation, certification with the Florida Department of Revenue and evidence of an account with the Manatee County Tax Collector are requested with the application.

them was ineffective. At the Feb. 12 meeting, Titsworth said, “Because of the nature of both of these calls, I have, unfortunately, blocked them from my phone as I don’t condone bullying or harassment.” She then asked code enforcement officer JT Thomas, who attended the meeting, to state the city’s procedure for filing a noise complaint. Thomas said a complaint is initiated with a call to the HBPD, which investigates and determines if a citation is warranted. Both Rash and Motzer complained in emails to the commissioners about Titsworth’s remarks. Rash wrote Feb. 13, “I am totally shocked at Mayor Titsworth’s attacks towards me. Especially on the dais. I am 100 percent sure Judy asked me to call her direct if I ever had a noise problem.” Motzer’s Feb. 14 email stated, “All of us have had the understanding that Mayor Titsworth has told them to call her if there were noise issues.” However, in a Feb. 19 interview with The Islander, Titsworth said her comments were taken out of context. “I told Dick Motzer, ‘You have to call code enforcement, you have to call the police,’” she said, adding that he previously emailed her multiple times regarding noise, with his tone “getting angrier and angrier each time.” Regarding Motzer’s complaint that calling HBPD is ineffective, she said she told him to call and alert her to come over after the police arrive, as she wants to witness them not issuing a citation. She said she told Motzer and Rash to call her if HBPD was unable to resolve the issue. “I’ve been asking (Motzer) this for two years, and now Rash is saying the same thing. So I told him the same thing. Call me. I want to witness, because if we have police that aren’t doing their job I want to witness it so I can take care of it. So they are just taking that out of context.”

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6 n FEb. 27, 2019 n THE ISLANDER

Opinion

Our

Sunshine season

In Florida, there is a season for everything. If the snow piled up on our sidewalks, I am sure it would be shovel season. We have high season and summer season for tourism. And quiet season, or no-low tourism, also known as slow season. There also is busy season. And crazy busy season. There also is a fading snowbird season, as shortterm vacation rentals overwhelmingly change our market of three-six month renters to weekly visitors. We have sea turtle season starting in May and ending with thousands of hatchlings scampering toward the Gulf of Mexico and, of course, birdwatching season, including white pelicans in the winter months. There’s mullet, tarpon and stone crab seasons. There is the holiday season, political season and art season, the latter bringing lots of outdoor shows, music events and “fair” food to our island. Of course, there is storm season. It overlaps hurricane season, May 31-Nov. 1. And we have winter, spring, which officially starts March 20, summer and fall. Spring weather, however, can come and go quickly. Do not blink. We will roll back the clocks an hour for daylight saving time March 10 and it will seem like summer. Summer, coming soon, is the long, hot season. But Sunshine season is first. It is the season when the media and media watchdogs look at access to public records. It is Sunshine Week, March 10-16. It is the week we celebrate your right to know. For our part, we shine our spotlight on local governments and the cooperation and freedom they allow us to their information sources. It comes at a time when First Amendment advocates are calling the free press to withstand the hostility and threats that have surfaced in national politics. As public servants, your city officials and the city staff have Sunshine Laws to guide them in cooperating with citizens and the press. The laws exist for you, the taxpayer. Each of you has a right to know and, as your newspaper of record, we sometimes struggle to report information when it is seemingly over-protected or staff resists the effort it takes to provide records. We believe an open government helps promote an honest government. And it is your right to know. — Bonner Joy

FEB. 27, 2019 • Vol. 27, No. 18 ▼ ▼

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Publisher and Editor Bonner Joy, news@islander.org Editorial Lisa Neff, copy editor, lisa@islander.org Steve Albee, steve@islander.org Sandy Ambrogi, sandy@islander.org Joe Bird, editorial cartoonist Kevin Cassidy, kevin@islander.org Jack Elka, jack@jackelka.com ChrisAnn Silver Esformes, chrisann@islander.org Ryan Paice, ryan@islander.org Kathy Prucnell, kathyp@islander.org Contributors Jesse Brisson Karen Riley-Love Capt. Danny Stasny, ﬁsh@islander.org Advertising Director Toni Lyon, toni@islander.org Office Staff Lisa Williams, manager Vicki McIntyre accounting@islander.org classiﬁeds@islander.org subscriptions@islander.org Distribution Urbane Bouchet Judy Loden Wasco Ross Roberts (All others: news@islander.org)

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Opinion

Your

Friends say thanks

The Friends of the Island Library had a tremendous turnout for a program Jan. 31 for the lecture and travel series. Janis Ian was generous with her life highlights, insights, hit songs, entertaining stories and financial donations. Ian’s love and respect for libraries were key points in her presentation. Not only did we receive donations, we also increased our Friends of the Island Library memberships, which are the underlying support of our organization. The donation containers and merchandise sales raised $2,200 and 100 percent was donated to the Friends of the Island Library and the Pearl Foundation, each receiving half. Ian and her spouse, Pat Snyder, donated the merchandise. The Pearl Foundation —named after Ian’s mother — is charitable foundation funded solely through donations of fans and friends and also Ian and Snyder. Donations go toward scholarships to students who have been out of school — whether elementary, secondary, or college — more than five years. We are genuinely thankful for Ian’s lecture, giving heart and monetary donations. We also are thankful for the audience — from near and far — that attended the lecture. We also want to give a huge shoutout to the Waterline Marine Resort and Beach Club for hosting us and The Islander newspaper for the reception after the lecture. Also, I must thank board member Melissa Williams. Without her expertise, ideas and contributions, this lecture would not have been so successful. She has helped us reach out to our patrons around the world. If you missed the lecture, you can view the video on YouTube. Ginny Upshaw, Friends of the Island Library president

What happened to ‘island time’?

“Take it easy, you’re on island time!” That’s what we were told when we bought our Holmes Beach residence 10 years ago. We needed no convincing, it was the precise reason we came here. Now the city and the Holmes Beach Police Department want to facilitate everyone going faster by effectively regulating golf carts off the streets. These regulations are couched in the name of “safety” rather than the mere annoyance of people who want to drive faster on our tiny island. But the only recent traffic fatality was due to an automobile. I am not aware of any golf cart fatalities. Perhaps Police Chief Bill Tokajer could clarify that, as well as provide statistical evidence that seat belts save lives at 20 miles per hour. No mother or father would let go of their child while riding in a golf cart. The installation of car seats sucks the fun out of open-air rides for children. What happened to resistance to regulations in the red state? If you want enforcement, pull over the cars that pass slower vehicles on two-lane roads. If you want safety, make all island roads 25 mph — why would you have to get to faster? And remember, every (electric) golf-cart errand is one less automobile emission. Save our island time. Will Flinn and Michele Lentz, Holmes Beach

Have your say: The Islander accepts original letters of up to 250 words and reserves the right to edit for grammar and length. Letters must include name, address and a contact phone number. Email: news@ islander.org. Anonymous letters will not be printed.

THE ISLANDER n FEb. 27, 2019 n 7

Welcome all

A welcome sign greets guests arriving to Bradenton Beach near the intersection of Gulf Drive and Cortez Road near the Cortez Bridge in 1970. Islander Photo: Courtesy Manatee County Public Library Digital Collection

Good deeds

Duffy’s to host clothing drive

It isn’t too early for some spring cleaning in the closets. The Women’s Resource Center of Bradenton will benefit from an annual clothing drive 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday, March 2, at Duffy’s Tavern, 5808 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Duffy’s will collect “gently used” women’s apparel and accessories for women who may need help interviewing for employment, according to a notice from organizer Denise Johnson of Holmes Beach. The center operates a career closet and resale shop in Bradenton. An announcement said, “Donors will receive a little something from Duffy’s toward a burger and a beer!” and the event provides an opportunity to clean out the closets. For more information, call 941-747-6797.

10&20 years ago

In the headlines: Feb. 24, 1999

The Florida Department of Transportation announced a $1.2 million repair project on the Anna Maria Island Bridge would keep the bridge operating safely for five years. Galati Marine agreed to pay $23,000 as its share of a private-public dredge of Bimini Bay, including clearing the “dog leg” channel from the main pass to the marina. Building official Bill Sanders resigned in the city of Bradenton Beach. He said there were too many “divergent philosophies” among the department heads and elected officials.

In the headlines: Feb. 25, 2009

Volunteer opportunities

Looking for volunteer opportunities on or around Anna Maria Island? These organizations are seeking help: • The Roser Food Bank needs donations of cash and nonperishable food. The pantry is administered by Roser Memorial Community Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Information: 941-778-0414. • Moonracer Animal Rescue seeks volunteers to offer foster and forever homes for rescued animals. Information: 941-345-2441. • Anna Maria Island Historical Society museum seeks docents, 402 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Information: 941-778-0492. • Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce seeks volunteers to assist at the office and visitor information center. Information: 941-778-1541.

We’d love to mail you the news!

The pier at Manatee Public Beach in Holmes Beach was blocked to pedestrians by caution tape and warning signs after Manatee County Natural Resources Department director Charlie Hunsicker received a report from an engineer who deemed the pier “unsafe” for public use. Bradenton Beach City Clerk Nora Idso lodged a complaint with other city officials over the length of a board of adjustment meeting. The meeting about a certificate of occupancy for a motel on Gulf Drive lasted more than four hours. Anna Maria Island Community Center staff and board members blamed a slump in the economy for a decline in revenues for the nonprofit.

Find your news in the stacks

Find The Islander dating to November 1992 at the University of Florida Digital Library Newspaper Collection at ufdc.ufl.edu.

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Anna Maria charter committee discusses changes to government

By Ryan Paice Islander Reporter Charter review committee members entered their meeting Feb. 13 equipped with answers for old questions and a readiness to venture further into the guiding document for Anna Maria. Their first order of business was to address Commissioner Dale Woodland’s request they investigate a public-private partnership form of government. Sandy Springs, Georgia, has such a system. Sandy Springs, with a population of 106,739 people, has the state’s lowest per-capita ratio of municipal employees to residents because it uses contractors and outsources work. Vose Anna Maria Mayor Dan Murphy, who attended the meeting, referred CRC members to an Iowa State University study, “Extreme privatization: A performance analysis of the ‘Sandy Springs Model,’” for their consideration. Murphy said Sandy Springs’ Murphy public-private partnership worked well for three years, but is no longer efficient. He also said the same form of government wouldn’t be necessary in Anna Maria because much of the work already is contracted out, includBarford ing the charter offices of city attorney and city engineer. Also, Murphy said the charter should continue to provide the mayor and commissioners the flexibility to determine what to outsource. City attorney Becky Vose, who attended the meeting via speakerphone, suggested leaving the charter as is regarding the subject. “I think it would be an incredibly bad mistake for Anna Maria to change its charter to say that there will be mandatory RFPs for this, that or the other thing,” Vose said. Committee chair Fran Barford, mayor of Anna Maria in 2006-10, agreed. “I think we’re all in agreement that flexibility is key here, and we need to be able to have the flexibility to operate this city no matter what the demands call for,” she said. Discussion about the lack of a chartered definition of a resident was next on the agenda. Committee vice chair Jack Brennan recalled that Vose established at the joint meeting with the city commission how residency in Florida is defined by case law and shouldn’t be defined in the charter. Vose, Feb. 13, added, “’Residency’ is a term of art. There’s a ton of case law out there saying what it is and, basically, it’s an ephemeral something. … If we

Anna Maria Mayor Dan Murphy, left, listens as charter review committee members Fran Barford, Jack Brennan, John Chambers, Sissy Quinn and Mark Short discuss the document Feb. 13. Islander Photo: Ryan Paice

start trying to mess with the definition, I think we’re just going to confuse it and I’ll probably lose whatever court case we might have.” She said the review committee should leave the judgement of candidates’ residency to the voters. The voters also will have the final say on any recommended changes to the charter. The committee makes recommendations to city commissioners, which, if approved, go to a citywide ballot. “I just want somebody to be invested in this city and interested,” committee member John Chambers said. “I don’t know how long it takes to do that. I don’t know how long you have to live here to do that.” Charter review members voted 5-0 not to recommend adding a definition of resident to the document. Committee members also again discussed term lengths for elected officials. Elected officials serve two-year terms in Anna Maria, but charter review members have discussed expanding terms to three years to allow commissioners more time to learn the job before running for reelection. At the joint meeting, city commissioners did not come to a consensus on the length of terms for elected officials. Commissioners Amy Tripp and Carol Carter said they would like to see terms expanded to three years. Commissioners Dale Woodland and Doug Copeland said two-year terms work, while Commissioner Brian Seymour declined to take a position. Brennan preferred not to touch term lengths. Then Chambers offered an idea: have three commissioners on three-year terms and two on two-year terms.

“I think it’s an interesting idea to ponder, but I think we add a level of complication into it all,” Short said. Barford agreed with Short, and asked for a vote to keep two-year terms. Committee members voted 5-0 not to recommend changes to the term length. Discussion of hiring a city manager or administrator followed, with Barford asking committee members for their thoughts on the subject. “I think we need to close this out and move forward because we need to get this done,” Barford said. “I think the consensus came out that a city manager is not right for the city right now, but an administrator gives flexibility if and when the need comes for the mayor to appoint someone to that position.” The charter provides the mayor the authority to hire an administrator in a short- or long-term role with approval from the commission. Also, commissioners can vote to hire an administrator without the mayor’s authorization. “I agree that now it doesn’t make sense, but utilizing that administrator position — which we’ll get to — makes a lot of sense for the city,” Short said. “As we talked about, it’s not getting any easier to run the city, and taking advantage of somebody in that type of role could certainly alleviate some of the roles and responsibilities in the city.” Barford said they would rekindle the conversation when they reach the relevant part of the charter, in Section 5.07. The committee had made its way through Section 3.08 as of Feb. 13. The next charter review committee meeting will be at 10 a.m. Wednesday, Feb. 27, at city hall, 10005 Gulf Drive.

Holmes Beach plans to redo, possibly ‘Revize’ website

By ChrisAnn Silver Esformes Islander Reporter Holmes Beach is ready for an upgrade. “As you all are aware, we have an antique website,” city clerk Stacey Johnston said Feb. 12, during a city commission meeting. At that meeting, commissioners unanimously voted to authorize Mayor Judy Titsworth to sign a contract with Revize Software Systems of Troy, Michigan, contingent upon positive references and Revize’s recertification with the Florida Department of State Division of Corporations. In a staff report to the mayor and commissioners, Johnston wrote, “The current website utilizes very old technology, is limited to what can be added and accomplished on the site and appears to have been built in the mid-’90s,” when the site was launched. Additionally, Johnston said, the website must be updated for compliance under the U.S. Americans with Disabilities Act, a civil rights law that prohibits discrimination based on disability. ADA compliant websites provide audio versions of written materials, such as pdf files, for the visually impaired and sites also must be set up so as not to cause seizures for some viewers. Bradenton Beach took its website offline in November 2018 to be updated for ADA compliance.

The city also contracted with Revize for a new site in December but, as of Feb. 13, the site was not posted. Johnston reviewed proposals and demos from five software companies before reaching a recommendation for Revize. According to Revize’s proposal, the development of a custom website would cost $12,830, with a free upgrade on the fifth year of service and a $3,175 annual fee for maintenance. Johnston said Revize would take three-four months to develop the site, but would create an ADA compliant placeholder within a week of Titsworth signing the contract. City attorney Patricia Petruff told the mayor and commissioners that Revize’s Florida corporation registration had lapsed at the end of 2018, but the oversight soon would be remedied. Commissioner Rick Hurst recommended Johnston contact city staff in Anna Maria and St. Petersburg, as well as Flagler County — several of the government entities using Revize — and ask if they are pleased with the websites provided by Revize. “I would highly recommend checking references if you have not,” Hurst said. “Demos can be a lot of smoke and mirrors. Their support is going to be fantastic at this stage. How is it two years later? I’d like to see four or five references.”

“I can do that,” Johnston said. Titsworth said, “Time is of the essence” to get the site ADA compliant and avoid a potential lawsuit, and suggested the commission approve authorization with contingencies. The commission unanimously approved a motion authorizing the mayor to sign the agreement if positive references are obtained and state registration is confirmed.

You can peruse The Islander newspaper archive, dating back to its launch in November 1992, at ufdc. ufl.edu.

THE ISLANDER n FEb. 27, 2019 n 9

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@ The Islander, 3218 E. Bay Drive, HB Submit your social news to news@islander.org. Please, include the time, date and location for events, as well as a contact name and phone number for publication. And, thanks for sharing!

WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHY

Bingo brings crowd to center

More than 130 people play bingo Jan. 25 at the Center of Anna Maria Island, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria, for a chance to win gift cards to local restaurants. Center bingo will be played again March 1 and March 29. For more information, call the center at 941-778-1908. Islander Courtesy Photo

Center calls for bingo players

The Center of Anna Maria Island will host bingo night 6-8 p.m. Friday, March 1. Bingo also will be called Friday, March 29. Bingo cards will cost $1. The center will host a cash bar for wine, beer and other refreshments. The center is at 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria. For more information, call the center at 941-7781908.

Longboat Key Garden Club readies home tour

The Longboat Key Garden Club will stage its 43rd annual Home and Garden Tour 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday, March 2. Tickets to the tour of seven homes and gardens are $25, and proceeds will be used to award grants and scholarships. For more information, including ticket details and tour addresses, call Cathy Bishop at 941-383-3023.

‘Despicable Me’ next movie at City Pier Park

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“Despicable Me” will be the featured film at “Movies in the Park” Wednesday, Feb. 27, in Anna Maria. The 2010 animated film is about a criminal mastermind who, using a trio of orphan girls as pawns for a grand scheme, finds their love profoundly changes him for the better. The city of Anna Maria serves popcorn and other snacks, as well as beverages at “Movies in the Park” at City Pier Park, located at the east end of Pine Avenue. For more information, call city hall at 941-7086130.

Historical society to host Heritage Day March 2

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The Anna Maria Island Historical Society will hold its annual Heritage Day Festival March 2 at the AMIHS Historical Park, 402 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. The Saturday event will be 9 a.m.-2 p.m., raising money for AMIHS to provide education and entertainment. Festivalgoers will find a settlers market offering herbs, native plants, produce and AMIHS’ Settler’s Bread. Also, there will be games, museum tours, visits in Belle Haven cottage, music, food, and demonstrations, including pine-needle basketmaking. Organizers expect an invasion by the Anna Maria Island Privateers and plan to host musical performances. For more information, call AMIHS at 941-7780492.

Tickets on sale for home tour

The Center of Anna Maria Island is selling tickets to the 26th edition of its annual Anna Maria Island Tour of Homes, which will highlight four homes but feature five stops. The tour is set for 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday, March 16, and will include visits to four homes “with distinctive architecture, elegant interiors and stunning waterfront views,” according to a news release from the center. The properties include the Fangmeyer home, 95 52nd St., Holmes Beach; the Kerchner home, 637 Key Royale Drive, Holmes Beach; the Horne home, 8403 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach; and the Willow house, 222 Willow Ave., Anna Maria. The fifth stop on the tour will be the center, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria, which will feature sales of crafts and home decor, as well as host food vendors. Additionally, the drawing for the tour of homes quilt created by the Eyeland Needlers volunteers will be at the center. Tickets for the quilt raffle are available at the center — $1 for one or $5 for six tickets. Center of Anna Maria Island Tour of homes tickets are $25 and can be purchased at multiple locations on the island, including: • In Anna Maria at the center; the Anna Maria Island General Store, 503 Pine Ave.; Duncan Real Estate office, 310 Pine Ave.; Egret’s Nest, 10010 Gulf Drive; and Ginny’s and Jane E’s Bakery Cafe and Coastal Store, 9807 Gulf Drive. • In Holmes Beach at the Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce office, 5313 Gulf Drive; Holmes Beach Ace Hardware, 3352 E. Bay Drive; LaPensee Plumbing, 401 Manatee Ave. W.; and the Egret’s Landing, 5602 Marina Drive. Proceeds from the tour will benefit the center’s programs and mission. For more information, go online to www.centerami.org or call the center at 941-778-1908.

Gardeners grow knowledge at library, lead tour

The Manatee County Extension Service and Island Library will present “Ask a Master Gardener Saturday, March 1, at the Island Library. A gardener will be available 10 a.m.-1 p.m. to distribute information about programs and plants and answer questions. The library is at 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Also, a master gardener will lead a tour through Robinson Preserve in west Bradenton 9-11 a.m. Sunday, March 17. For reservations to join the tour or more information about the library program, call the Manatee County Extension Service’s office in Palmetto at 941722-4524.

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Island happenings

THE ISLANDER n FEb. 27, 2019 n 11

IGW celebrates ‘Small Wonders’

Island Gallery West will feature the work of Sue Bokos in March. Bokos grew up in Michigan and attended the University of Michigan. She and her husband moved to Anna Maria in 2012 after living in New York. Her photography exhibit is titled “Small Wonders.” Bokos writes in an announcement, “I chose this title because I always try to look for the small lovely details that often go unnoticed.” A reception will be 5:30-7:30 p.m. Friday, March 8, coinciding with the downtown Holmes Beach ArtWalk. The gallery is at 5368 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. For more information, call IGW at 941-7786648. Islander Courtesy Photo

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FMM to dine with Pulitzer Prize-winning author

The Florida Maritime Museum will host author and historian Jack E. Davis for its Fishing For Our Future fundraising dinner. The event at the Seafood Shack, 4110 127th St. W., Cortez, will be 6-8:30 p.m. Thursday, March 14. Davis is a professor of environmental history at the University of Florida and the author of “An Everglades Providence: Marjory Stoneman Douglas and the American Environmental Century” and “The Gulf: The Making of an American Sea.” He won the 2018 Pulitzer Prize in history for “The Gulf: The Making of an American Sea,” described by the Pulitzer board as “an important environmental history of the Gulf of Mexico that brings crucial attention to Earth’s 10th-largest body of water, one of the planet’s most diverse and productive marine ecosystems.” He will provide his historical view of the Gulf of Mexico and discuss how coastal residents are connected to the Gulf. Davis also will sign copies of his books, which will be sold at the dinner. General tickets are $50 and include dinner, the author’s talk, the book signing and access to a silent auction.

The book cover for “The Gulf: The Making of an American Sea.” Author Jack E. Davis won the 2018 Pulitzer Prize in history for the book. Islander Courtesy Photo

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Organizers hope to raise $34,000, which would be matched by a grant from the Manatee County Tourist Development Council to benefit the Friends of the Florida Maritime Museum. To purchase tickets, go online to www.floridamaritimemuseum.org. For more information, call the museum at 941708-6120.

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In the lecture lineup

Cathy Salustri will talk about Key West, pirates, patriots and painters during a lecture at the Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, at 2 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 28. The lectures are sponsored by the Friends of the Island Library and continue through March. Islander Courtesy Photo

iques,

Submit your social news to news@islander.org. Please, include the time, date and location for events, as well as a contact name and phone number for publication. And, thanks for sharing!

Under New Ownership Ali Severson

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

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The Islander Calendar ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT ON ANNA MARIA ISLAND

COMPILED BY LISA NEFF

Guild of Anna Maria Island gallery, 5414 Marina Drive, Holmes KIDS & FAMILY Beach. Information: 941-778-6694. ON ANNA MARIA ISLAND Throughout March, Sue Bokos exhibits “Small Wonders,” Island Gallery West, 5368 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778- Friday, March 1 6648. 10 a.m. — Forty Carrots, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, LOOKING AHEAD ON AMI Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341. Tuesday, March 5 March 7-24, Island Players’ “A Flea In Her Ear,” Anna Maria. 10 a.m. — Preschool storytime, Island Library, 5701 Marina March 8, Holmes Beach Art District ArtWalk, Holmes Beach. Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341. March 9-10, Anna Maria Island Art League’s Springfest, Holmes ONGOING OFF AMI Beach. March 14, Florida Watercolor Society exhibit reception, Anna First Saturdays, Family Night at the Museum, South Florida Maria. Museum, 201 10th St. W., Bradenton. Fee applies. Information: April 1, the Marshall Tucker Band in concert, Anna Maria. 941-746-4131. April 13, Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce Beach n’ Fourth Wednesdays, “Stelliferous Live” star talk, South Florida Food Truck and Music Festival, Bradenton Beach. Museum, 201 10th St. W., Bradenton. Fee applies. Information:

Wednesday, Feb. 27 6:30 p.m. — Movies in the Park, showing “Despicable Me,” City Pier Park, North Bay Boulevard and Pine Avenue, Anna Maria. Information: 941-708-6130. Thursday, Feb. 28 2 p.m. — Friends of the Island Library Lecture and Travel Series lecture with Cathy Salustri, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341. Saturday, March 2 10:30 a.m. — Island Gallery West watercolor demonstration with Graciela Giles, 5368 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6648. ONGOING OFF ANNA MARIA ISLAND Monday, March 4 6:30 p.m. — Artists’ Guild of Anna Maria Island general meetSecond Wednesdays, Think + Drink (science), South Florida ing and program, Episcopal Church of the Annunciation, 4408 Gulf Museum, 201 10th St. W., Bradenton. Fee applies. Information: Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6694 941-746-4131. ONGOING ON AMI Wednesdays, 2-4 p.m., Shanty Singers, Florida Maritime Museum, 4415 119th St. W., Cortez. Information: 941-708-6120. Throughout February, Sharon Lennox Woelﬂing exhibits “Blue,” First Fridays, 6-9 p.m. ArtWalk in the Village of the Arts, around Island Gallery West, 5368 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 12th Street West and 12th Avenue West, Bradenton. Also, Saturdays 941-778-6648. after the ﬁrst Fridays. Information: villageofthearts@gmail.com. Throughout February, Diane Remington exhibits her work, ArtSecond Saturdays, 2-4 p.m., Music on the Porch, Florida Mariists’ Guild of Anna Maria Island gallery, 5414 Marina Drive, Holmes time Museum, 4415 119th St. W., Cortez. Information: 941-708Beach. Information: 941-778-6694. 6120. March 6-April 6, Florida Suncoast Watercolor Society “TransThrough Dec. 31, “Always Ready” U.S. Coast Guard exhibit, parent” exhibit, the Studio at Gulf and Pine, 10101 Gulf Drive, Anna Florida Maritime Museum, 4415 119th St. W., Cortez. Information: Maria. Information: 941- 778-1906. 941-708-6120. Through March 2, Richard Thomas’ “Drawn To Line and Color” LOOKING AHEAD OFF AMI exhibit, the Studio at Gulf and Pine, 10101 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria. Information: 941-778-1906. March 31, AMICCO’s “Diva Wars” concert, Bradenton. Through March 30, Saturdays at 10:30 a.m., Island Gallery West artist demonstrations, 5368 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6648. Throughout March, Gwen Kodad exhibits work at the Artists’

941-746-4131.

GAMES, SPORTS & OUTDOORS ON ANNA MARIA ISLAND Friday, March 1 6-8 p.m. — Center of Anna Maria Island bingo games, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria. Fee applies. Information: 941-7781908. ONGOING ON ANNA MARIA ISLAND Mondays, AMI Dragon Boat Fun and Fitness Club, time depends on tides, 417 63rd St., Holmes Beach. Information: 941462-2626. Wednesdays and Saturdays, 9 a.m., horseshoes pitched, Anna Maria City Hall, 10005 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria. Information: 941-7086130. Thursdays, through March 28, bingo, Annie Silver Community Center, 103 23rd St. N., Bradenton Beach. Information: 941-7783580. Most Fridays, 11:30 a.m. or 1 p.m. (call for times) mahjong games, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Informa-

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Policy adviser presents ‘Women in Politics’ lecture

Sally Vastola, a Washington, D.C., senior policy adviser with Holland & Knight’s Public Policy and Regulation Group, presents “Women and Politics” Feb. 21 for the Friends of the Island Library Lecture and Travel Series at the library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. The lecture series will include a weekly speaker though March 21. The next speaker will be Cathy Salustri presenting “Key West: Pirates, Patriots and Painters” at 2 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 28. Islander Photos: ChrisAnn Silver Esformes Sally Vastola, a Washington, D.C., senior policy adviser, and Julie Perry, vice president of the nonprofit Friends of the Island Library board, pose Feb. 21 before Vastola’s presentation, “Women in Politics,” as part of the friends’ 2019 Lecture and Travel Series at the library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach.

THE ISLANDER n FEb. 27, 2019 n 13

The Islander Calendar tion: 941-778-6341. Mondays, noon, bridge, Roser Memorial Community Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Information: 941-778-0414. Most Tuesdays, 11:30 a.m., mahjong games and instruction for beginners, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341. Tuesdays, noon, duplicate bridge, Episcopal Church of the Annunciation, 4408 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941779-0881. ONGOING OFF AMI Through March 23, Pittsburgh Pirates spring training home games, LECOM Park, 1611 Ninth St. W., Bradenton. Fee applies. Information: 941-747-3031.

CLUBS & COMMUNITY ON ANNA MARIA ISLAND Wednesday, Feb. 27 Noon â€” Coloring club, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341. Thursday, Feb. 28 10 a.m. â€” Seaside Quilters, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341. Friday, March 1 3 p.m. â€” Yoga for beginners, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341. Saturday, March 2 10 a.m.-1 p.m. â€” Ask a Master Gardener with the Manatee County Extension Service, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341. 9 a.m-2 p.m. â€” Anna Maria Island Historical Societyâ€™s Heritage Day Festival, AMIHS Historical Park, 402 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Information: 941-778-0492. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. â€” Womenâ€™s Resource Center clothing drive, Duffyâ€™s Tavern, 5808 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 7782501. Wednesday, March 6 1 p.m. â€” Gulf Coast Writers, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341. 3-4 p.m. â€” â€œWhat is it Worth: Antique Appraisal,â€? Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341.

Maria. Information: 941-778-0492. Wednesdays through March, 1:30 p.m. Anna Maria Island Irish Ceili and Set Dancing, Sandpiper Mobile Resort house, 2601 Gulf Drive N., Bradenton Beach. Information: 941-779-1416. Thursdays, 9-11 a.m., veterans services assistance, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-7786341. Third Thursdays, 11:45 a.m., Successful Women Aligning Together meets, Bridge Street Bistro, 111 Gulf Drive S., Bradenton Beach. Fee applies. Information: 941-345-5135. Fridays, Senior Adventures usually meets to carpool on an adventure or for an activity, Annie Silver Community Center, 103 23rd St. N., Bradenton Beach. Information: 941-538-0945. Second Fridays, 6 p.m., AMI Resident Community Connections, Center of Anna Maria Island, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria. Information: 941-778-1908. Saturdays, 8:30 a.m., Kiwanis Club of Anna Maria Island breakfast meeting, Anna Maria Island Beach Cafe, Manatee Public Beach, 4000 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-1383. Tuesdays through May 14, 8:30 a.m.-2 p.m., Anna Maria Farmers Market, City Pier Park, North Bay Boulevard and Pine Avenue. Information: 941-708-6130. Tuesdays, noon, Rotary Club of Anna Maria Island, Bridge Street Bistro, 111 Gulf Drive S., Bradenton Beach. Information: 941718-0291. Tuesdays, 2-4 p.m., Tech Help, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341. LOOKING AHEAD ON AMI March 7, Friends of the Island Library lecture by Ronald Smith, Holmes Beach. March 9, Anna Maria Island Privateersâ€™ Thieves Market, Bradenton Beach. March 15, Annie Silver Community Center dinner, Bradenton Beach. March 16, Center of Anna Maria Island Tour of Homes, islandwide. March 21, Friends of the Island Library lecture by Joe Arena, Holmes Beach. April 11, Center of Anna Maria Island Passion for Fashion Show, Anna Maria. OFF ANNA MARIA ISLAND

Saturday, March 2 10 a.m.-5 p.m. â€” Longboat Key Garden Club Home Tour, variWednesdays through March, Anna Maria Island Historical Soci- ous stops on Longboat Key. Fee applies. Info: 941-383-3023. ety sales of settlers bread, AMIHS museum, 402 Pine Ave., Anna ONGOING OFF AMI ONGOING ON AMI

Fridays, 10:30 a.m., Paradise Cafe games, music and socializing, the Paradise Center, Temple Beth Israel, 567 Bay Isles Road,

Longboat Key. Fee applies. Information: 941-383-6493. Saturdays through May, 9 a.m.-2 p.m., Bradenton Farmers Market, Old Main, Bradenton. Information: 941- 621-6471. LOOKING AHEAD OFF AMI March 16, Palma Sola Botanical Park plant sale, Bradenton.

GOOD TO KNOW SAVE THE DATES March 10, daylight saving time begins. March 17, St. Patrickâ€™s Day. March 20, spring begins. April 1, April Foolsâ€™ Day. April 19, Good Friday. April 19, Passover begins. April 21, Easter. April 22, Earth Day. April 26, National Arbor Day. May 5, Cinco de Mayo. May 5, Ramadan begins. May 12, Motherâ€™s Day. May 27, Memorial Day.

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

Adventures group to tour St. Pete museum

The Senior Adventures group will travel Friday, March 1, to St. Petersburg to tour Imagine Museum. The group will depart at 9 a.m. from the Annie Silver Community Center, 103 23rd St. N., Bradenton Beach, and plans to go out to lunch after the tour. The van ride will be $5. Admission to the museum, which features glassworks, will depend on the groupâ€™s size. Senior Adventures is a group that plans weekly outings or gatherings â€” usually Fridays â€” either off the island or at the Annie Silver Community Center. For more information or reservations, call Kaye Bell at 941-538-0945.

the Florida Maritime Museum presents A Flea In Her Ear

By Georges Feydeau Directed by Kelly Wynn Woodland Co- Produced by Off Stage Ladies

MARCH 7-24

Raymonde believes her husband Victor Emmanuel has been unfaithful, so she hatches a scheme to catch him at a nearby hotel notorious for extramarital hanky-panky. The great French farce is full of mischief, mistaken identities and slamming doors in this new adaptation by David Ives.

TOTALLY HILARIOUS! â˜…â˜…â˜…â˜… UTTER PANDEMONIUM! â˜…â˜…â˜…â˜… A LAUGH BLAST! â˜…â˜…â˜…â˜…

Fishing for our Future Fundraiser: Dinner and Author Talk with Pulitzer Prize Winning Historian, Jack E. Davis

Thursday, March 14 located at the Seafood Shack

6 PM - 8:30 PM Visit FloridaMaritimeMuseum.org to purchase tickets. Ticket prices start at $45.00.

All proďŹ ts will be matched up to $34,000. Thank you to our partners and sponsors:

SHOWTIME 8 P.M., SUNDAY MATINEES 2 P.M.

TICKETS: $20 Box office opens 9-1 M-S and 1 hour before performances

AUDITION QN .BSDI BU UIF UIFBUFS Present Laughter directed by Mike Lusk Run dates May 2-12

UIFJTMBOEQMBZFST PSH t 10009 Gulf Drive & Pine Avenue, Anna Maria

All proďŹ ts will be matched up to $34,000 by Manatee County Tourism Development Council.

14 n Feb. 27, 2019 n THE ISLANDER

BB discusses Gulf Drive improvements, Avenue C project

By Ryan Paice Islander Reporter The city of Bradenton Beach is a year ahead of schedule for stormwater drainage projects and hopes to build on its progress. City engineer Lynn Burnett presented city commissioners Feb. 21 with Florida Department of Transportation plans for a stormwater drainage project on Gulf Drive while work on the Avenue C stormwater project continues. Westra Construction has finished installing stormwater infiltration and restoring driveways and rights of way along the west side of Avenue C. Burnett said Westra now is working on the east side of the avenue, and will proceed from south to north. She presented pictures of the avenue after a recent rainfall that showed a lack of ponding where the infiltration system was installed on the west side but water pooled on the east side. Burnett said she has received positive feedback from residents of Avenue C, and is working on a funding request to complete stormwater drainage work at cross streets there. Burnett said Avenue C drainage would be addressed this year, while 2020 would be spent completing the design and engineering of an Avenue B stormwater drainage project, which would begin in 2021. She said the Southwest Florida Water Management District is funding 50 percent of the stormwater infiltration projects along avenues B and C for the next three years, but the construction would have to follow the district’s funding schedule to receive the contribu-

Westra Construction employees work Feb. 21 on the installation of a stormwater infiltration system and restoration of driveways and rights of way along Avenue C in Bradenton Beach. Islander Photo: Ryan Paice

tions. in a new five-year work program. Mayor John Chappie said the Avenue C project Burnett said funds won’t be available for years, but was originally scheduled for 2020, so the city is a year celebrated that improvements for Gulf Drive made it ahead of schedule and already pushing the envelope into the plan. for funding from the water management district. The county, which maintains the state road, presented the city with two improvement options: an Gulf Drive improvements 8-inch vertical trench drain along the back of an existBurnett said the city has ongoing meetings with the ing sidewalk or replacement of sidewalk sections with DOT to discuss stormwater drainage improvements for permeable pavers over an infiltration system, accordGulf Drive, and identified several areas on the roadway ing to a handout from the meeting. that present public safety issues during storm condiThe county indicated a preference for the pavers, tions and heavy rains. and Burnett agreed. She said the permeable pavers The DOT hired a consultant to study drainage on would cost less than the trench drain and be easier to Gulf Drive and recommend improvements to include maintain.

Landscape architect rounds out Bradenton Beach CRA membership

By Ryan Paice Islander Reporter The Bradenton Beach Community Redevelopment Agency is whole again. City commissioners voted 5-0 Feb. 21 to appoint David Bell, a retired landscape architect, to a fouryear term on the CRA. Bell wrote in his application that he “worked as a planner and designer with engineers, architects and developers for large and Bell small projects and budgets, including parks, rental housing, residential subdivisions, historic

buildings, commercial properties and schools.” satisfied with the results,” Hassett said. The seat became open in January, when restauCommissioner Ralph Cole said one of his considrateur John Horne decided not to seek reappointment erations for applicants was their availability to attend after two years of serving on the CRA, which pro- meetings. He said he wouldn’t consider anyone who motes restoration, growth and tourism for the district wasn’t available to meet for several months. — bordered by Cortez Road, Sarasota Bay, Fifth Street He said his nomination was split between Patrick South and the Gulf of Mexico. The district is funded Noonan, a product manager for Avant Inc., and Bell, by incremental tax revenue from Manatee County after but he opted to nominate Bell. it was declared blighted in 1992. Chappie said he, too, supported Bell, adding that The CRA includes the mayor, city commissioners dividing the two appointee seats between a business and two appointed members. owner, currently restaurant-owner Ed Chiles, and a Six people applied for CRA appointment, includ- resident might work best. ing Bell, Sherman Baldwin, Matthew Mayo, James Commissioners Randy White and Jake Spooner Hassett, Fidencia Pla and Patrick Noonan. said they considered Sherman Baldwin, who owns Hassett was the only applicant who attended the Paradise Boat Tours on the pier and is a member of Holmes Beach planners meeting, but he did not qualify for CRA membership the Bridge Street Merchants, as a nominee, but agreed approve comp plan proposal because he neither lives or operates a business within with Chappie that a district resident may be best for the CRA. Holmes Beach is a step closer to updating its com- the district. Nevertheless, he addressed the commission. The next CRA meeting will be 9:30 a.m. Wednesprehensive plan. “I hope Mr. Bell gets the job, because between he day, March 6, at Bradenton Beach City Hall, 107 Gulf Members of the Holmes Beach Planning Commission voted 4-0 to approve a second draft of a request and his wife, we’re going to be more than happy and Drive N. for proposals to hire a professional planner to guide the update. Into the windup Vice chair Jayne Christenson and member Scott Boyd were absent with excuse Feb. 19. Boyd and Mary Buonagura, the city’s human resources analyst, drafted the RFP to procure bids for the comp plan facilitator. Following discussion of the draft RFP at a Feb. 6 planning commission meeting, a second draft was prepared with changes. A comp plan determines community goals relating to growth and development and defines transportation, utilities, land use, recreation and housing policy and regulations. The Holmes Beach plan was adopted in 1989 and last amended in 2007. Pending city commission approval, the RFP will be issued. The planning commission will review bids and make recommendations to the city commission, which will select the facilitator. City clerk Stacey Johnston recommended the planners prepare a staff report and approve it at its March 6 meeting, so the proposed RFP can be added to the agenda for the March 12 city commission meeting. The planning commission will meet at 6 p.m. Wednesday, March 6, at city hall, 5801 Marina The first pitch of the Pittsburgh Pirates’ first home game of the spring training season is thrown Feb. 24. The Pirates took on the Miami Marlins at LECOM Park in Bradenton and won the game in the bottom of Drive. the 9th inning, when Ke’Bryan Hayes hit a walk-off grand slam to break a 6-6 tie. Islander Photo: Lisa Neff — ChrisAnn Silver Esformes

THE ISLANDER n FEb. 27, 2019 n 15 By Ryan Paice, ryan@islander.org

AME calendar â€˘ Wednesday, Feb. 27, 3:30 p.m., ParentTeacher Organization meeting in the media center. â€˘ Friday, March 8, 1 p.m., early release. â€˘ Wednesday, March 13, 3:30 p.m., ParentTeacher Organization meeting in the media center. â€˘ Friday, March 15, record day, no school. â€˘ Friday, March 22, 1 p.m., early release. â€˘ March 25-29, spring break, no school. â€˘ Monday, April 1, students return from spring break. â€˘ Tuesday, April 2, fourth- and fifth-grade English Language Arts writing assessment. â€˘ Wednesday-Thursday, April 3-4, third-grade English Language Arts reading assessment. â€˘ Tuesday, April 23, 5-6:30 p.m., ParentTeacher Organization dinner in the school cafeteria. Starting at 6:30 p.m., first-grade play in the auditorium. Anna Maria Elementary is at 4700 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. For more information, call the school at 941708-5525.

Third-grade play lauds â€˜Possibilitiesâ€™

AME third-grade students perform â€œBig Dreamsâ€? during the student play â€œPossibilitiesâ€? onstage Feb. 19 in the school auditorium. The next play will be April 23. Islander Photos: Ryan Paice

TOP: Waterfront Restaurant kitchen manager Michael Rain and chef Billy Hermenau serve the preplay Parent-Teacher Organization dinner in the AME cafeteria. The meals, served before class plays, are fundraisers for the PTO. LEFT: Students and adults converge in the cafeteria for dinner provided by the Waterfront Restaurant of Anna Maria.

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16 n FEb. 27, 2019 n THE ISLANDER

Holmes Beach consensus: nine-month timeout for â€˜phasingâ€™ permits

By ChrisAnn Silver Esformes Islander Reporter Holmes Beach is taking a timeout from permit-topermit construction. At its Feb. 12 work session, the mayor and commissioners reached a consensus on a draft ordinance for a nine-month moratorium on consecutive permits that seek to improve Federal Emergency Management Agency-rated noncompliant structures. Titsworth Building official Jim McGuinness said the moratorium would provide time for the commission to workshop the concept of substantial improvement and develop long-term regulations for a cumulative calculation of improvement values. The moratorium would be backdated to Jan. 8, when the commission first approved taking action on an ordinance. FEMA established standards for home elevation in 1975 known as FIRM â€” the Flood Insurance Rating Map. FEMA restricts remodeling to 50 percent of a preFIRM â€” built before 1975 â€” structureâ€™s assessed value. If the remodel surpasses 50 percent, the structure must be elevated or otherwise brought into compliance with current FEMA standards. Since the city doesnâ€™t restrict how many permits can be applied for in a year to improve a structure, some people apply for single, consecutive permits, or â€œphasing,â€? to circumvent the 50 percent rule. Yet, phasing is prohibited by FEMA, according to McGuinness. Land-use standards, including compliance with the 50 percent rule, must be maintained for the city to

participate in FEMAâ€™s National Flood Insurance Program. The NFIP uses a â€œcommunity rating systemâ€? to grade a community on compliance with the floodplain map and the rating determines the insurance discount for the city and its property owners. Holmes Beach, which is rated class six, received $1,015,387 in discounted flood insurance premiums Petruff â€” a 20 percent discount for property owners â€” in 2018. â€œWe not only want to preserve our rating, we actually want to improve upon it,â€? McGuinness told the commission. Initially, McGuinness proposed a one-year cumulative period for permitting for substantial improvements but, at the Jan. 8 meeting, Mayor Judy Titsworth recommended â€œup to three years,â€? which gained consensus from the commission. McGuinness proposed the draft ordinance be amended to include voluntary improvements, such as remodels, versus substantial damage from a hurricane or other acts of nature. In the case of substantial damage, McGuinness said, â€œWe believe the owner should have the right to repair the home without having to go back. So we wish to modify this ordinance to exclude that from the moratorium.â€? City attorney Patricia Petruff asked for clarification on how existing voluntary improvement permits that have only used a portion of the 50 percent would be affected by the moratorium. â€œTheyâ€™re not doing phase-to-phase because they havenâ€™t used their 50 percent,â€? Petruff said.

McGuinness said people could revise an existing permit to complete work allowed within the 50 percent. Petruff said she would amend the ordinance to include language clarifying the allowance. Commissioner Rick Hurst, who missed the Jan. 8 discussion, asked if multiple permits, using the original appraisal, could be issued in less than three years if the 50 percent has not been met. McGuinness said another permit would be allowed if the owner has not met 50 percent of the value of the structure. Hurst said three years is too long and asked McGuinness to provide evidence from FEMA that the time constraint would improve flood insurance rates. â€œWhy canâ€™t we just say, â€˜Weâ€™re going to think about the time period,â€™ and not throw three years out there publicly?â€? Hurst asked. Titsworth said it is OK to put up to three years in the moratorium as a placeholder. â€œThree years is to show FEMA that we are reacting to what the contractors have been doing,â€? Titsworth said, adding that a five-year cap would be required for further NFIP discounts. â€œItâ€™s definite phasing, itâ€™s definitely not allowed and FEMA knows itâ€™s happening out here. Theyâ€™re not happy.â€? The commission agreed to McGuinnessâ€™ recommendations and reached consensus on the ordinance with amendments for a hearing and first reading at a future commission meeting.

Celebrating art

Deborah Webster, left, of Artspace, a working studio and gallery on the second floor above the Anna Maria post office, thanks artist Richard Thomas, featured in the one-man show at the Studio at Gulf and Pine and Gene Aubry, on hand with music to liven the opening reception for the show. Aubry is an architect and former Anna Maria city commissioner. Thomasâ€™ art show will be at the studio gallery through March 2. Islander Photo: Bonner Joy

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Pirates raid park for pennies

$10 Tees @ The Islander, 3218 E. Bay Drive, HB.

Travis â€œSidekickâ€? Sparkman of the Anna Maria Island Privateers and Brenda Miller of the Sandpiper Resort in Bradenton Beach pause for a photo op Feb. 23 at the Sandpiperâ€™s annual Penny Sale. The Privateers raided the Sandpiper and loot their cash, collecting more than $1,800 to build their youth scholarship fund. Local businesses and park residents contributed to the fundraising effort at the mobile home park. Islander Courtesy Photo

THE ISLANDER n Feb. 27, 2019 n 17

WMFR chief selection committee recommends inside candidate fit.

By Kathy Prucnell Islander Reporter Ben Rigney is a shoe-in for the job. The perfect

With 13-plus years under his belt, Rigney is in line to serve as the next West Manatee fire chief. In a Feb. 19 report to the five-member West Manatee Fire Rescue board, Commissioner Larry Jennis recommended the district take “the next step” — the commissioners’ individual interviews with Rigney. The board came close to closing the hiring process, but backed off. Rigney serves now as the district’s administrative battalion chief, backing up WMFR Chief Tom Sousa. He started his career at WMFR as a volunteer firefighter in October 2005 and became employed by the district Jan. 30, 2006. “He’s exceptionally well qualified to be our next chief,” Jennis told the board, adding Rigney holds a master’s degree in public administration, paramedic certifications and is two years into a four-year International Fire Chiefs’ Association executive officer program. The screening committee — Jennis as chair, East Manatee Fire Rescue Chief Lee Whitehurst and WMFR Battalion Chief Rich Jasinski — set up the internal candidate process requiring applicants to respond by Feb. 7. Rigney, the only applicant, was interviewed by the committee a week later, Jennis said, adding he spoke to other WMFR officers, who “without exception, gave excellent recommendations.” Rigney comes from a family of public employees, he added, including father John Rigney, who was a firefighter and served on the WMFR board, and grandfather Hugh Holmes Sr. and uncle Hugh Holmes Jr., who served the district as volunteer firefighters. In discussing Rigney’s candidacy, Commissioner George Harris disclosed he and Rigney are relatives — his uncle and Rigney’s aunt are married. Several commissioners, including WMFR Commission Chair David Bishop, said they didn’t find a conflict with the relationship. Bishop asked commissioners for a motion to close the internal candidate process, but Commissioner Al Robinson called such a move premature, and no motion was made. Last year, Sousa announced he would retire in October. At the commission’s January meeting, the chief recommended a June date for internal candidate selection, and if needed, an external search, and the commissioners agreed to Sousa’s secession plan. The fire chief is the top administrative officer for the district, which operates on a $13.8 million 2018-19 budget including $5.6 million in reserves. The chief’s contracted salary is $112,000. Rigney said, “assuming all goes well,” and he’s chosen as the chief, he would then negotiate a contract with the district. The district employs 35 firefighters and inspectors as well as six paramedics and four administrative personnel, including the fire chief, who serve an 18-square

with Sousa or Rigney joining him in the discussions. WMFR Bat“It could be an alternative to replacing the chief talion Chief or it could assist us,” Harris said. Ben Rigney. At the outset of the fire chief search report, Bishop Islander said he wanted to separate the administrative merger Photo: Cour- talks and fire chief issues. tesy WMFR Being “pragmatic,” Bishop said, he also favored talking with other districts and “didn’t see it as an attack on the culture we have here.” Commissioner Randy Cooper pointed out the two districts could not merge all functions because they are not geographically contiguous. “I don’t want anyone to get the impression we’re having financial issues,” Jennis said. Robinson said, “I don’t think we’re top heavy in administration here. Who would we eliminate?” Harris said he favors an interlocal agreement with SMFR to reduce administrative costs that could someday lead to a merger, by including the adjacent Cedar mile area with 19,824 parcels. Hammock Fire Rescue district. In other business, Harris proposed talking with The board voted 3-2 to explore administrative South Manatee Fire Rescue’s fire chief about combin- opportunities with the SMFR. Robinson and Jennis ing the administrative services of WMFR and SMFR, dissented.

WMFR, firefighters union agree to contract

The West Manatee Fire Rescue Commission and the Suncoast Professional Firefighters and Paramedics banged out a 2 percent increase in wages for the district’s 32 firefighters over the next three years. The district’s three inspectors will receive 1.5-1.75 percent pay increases. At their Feb. 19 meeting, commissioners unanimously voted to approve the collective bargaining agreement effective Oct. 1, 2018-Sept. 30, 2021. A week earlier, the Suncoast membership, local 2546 of the International Association of Firefighters, approved the contract by a 24-8 vote. Chief Tom Sousa told commissioners negotiations began in June. “There was a lot of give and take. … Both sides didn’t get what they wanted,” he said, adding pension issues became “very emotional” since they involved long-term benefits. After the meeting, Philip Vets, union spokesman, when asked what prevented eight members from voting for the contract, said he didn’t know because it was a

secret ballot. He noted a concession made by the firefighters and inspectors to contribute an additional 2.1 percent to protect their pensions. Vets said, “They’re putting skin in the game to offset a downturn in the economy. I think that’s huge.” Of that additional contribution, 1 percent will be added Oct. 1, raising members’ current 2.9 percent contribution to 3.9 percent. Beginning Oct. 1, 2020, a 1.1 percent addition will raise the members’ contribution to 5 percent. “They’re contributing more to the future health of the plan,” Sousa said Feb. 21. Other changes in the new contract include a payfor-time incentive to attend paramedic school off duty, a two-hour reduction in monthly sick time and a onetime $500 check to cover retroactive pay between now and Oct. 1, 2018. — Kathy Prucnell WMFR Chief Tom Sousa works at his desk Feb. 12 in the district’s administration building, 6417 Third Ave. W., Bradenton. Oasis Middle School signed a $1.675 million sales contract with WMFR for the office building, which may close as early as April 1, according to fire officials. WMFR expects to relocate its administrative offices across the street and upstairs at the Palma Sola Presbyterian Church, 6510 Third Ave., as the commission undertakes a permanent office solution. Islander Photo: Kathy Prucnell

Celebrity lecture raises $1K for library ‘friends’

The conference room at the Waterline Marina Resort & Beach Club, 5325 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, is filled to capacity Jan. 31 for singer-songwriter Janis Ian’s participation in the Friends of the Island Library 2019 Lecture and Travel Series. Islander Photo: ChrisAnn Silver Esformes

Singer-songwriter Janis Ian wowed a crowd Jan. 31 with her lecture and performance in the Friends of the Island Library Lecture and Travel Series. According to Friends’ board president Ginny Upshaw, the donation containers and Ian’s merchandise sales at the event at the Waterline Marina Resort & Beach Club raised $2,200 — half for the Friends. The other 50 percent went to Ian’s nonprofit, The Pearl Foundation, which awards scholarships to students who have been out of school for more than five years. More information about Ian’s foundation can be found online at thepearlfoundation.org The Friends donations help provide the branch library with materials and services not funded by Manatee County. “Janis’s love and respect for libraries were key points in her presentation,” Upshaw wrote in a Feb. 8 email to The Islander. “Not only did we receive donations, we also increased our Friends of the Island Library memberships. These memberships are the underlying support in our organization. We are genuinely thankful for her lecture, giving heart and monetary donations. And we are also thankful for the audience, from near and far, that attended the lecture.” The event included Ian’s lecture, followed by autograph signing and a reception sponsored by The Islander newspaper at the Holmes Beach hotel. — ChrisAnn Silver Esformes

18 n FEb. 27, 2019 n THE ISLANDER

Island delivery driver receives special package

By Sandy Ambrogi Islander Reporter He’s the FedEx guy who brings rush packages to the door on Anna Maria Island. But Jan. 15, the table turned and Mark Reynolds was the one receiving a special delivery. It was a two-year wait, but Reynolds was finally able to bring his family together. Scarlet “Trisha” Kindat, 10, and Luiz Mario “MJ” Kindat, 16, arrived at Orlando International Airport for a reunion with their mother, Belan, and Reynolds,

their stepfather. Their arrival completed a process that Reynolds has been a delivery driver for FedEx on began two years ago to bring the children to Florida. Anna Maria Island for three years. He met his future The kids were living in their native Philippines wife online, where a romance blossomed. with an uncle and his family since Belan came to the She traveled to the United States on a K-1 visa — United States to marry Reynolds. also called a fiancée visa — and the pair married. Bringing the children from their home country involved “lots of paperwork and some snafus,” Reynolds said. When the kids arrived in January, the first item on their to-do list was a trip to the beach. “They asked to go straight to the beach when we got into town,” he said. “It was a cold, blustery January day, but they didn’t mind. We went straight to Manatee Public Beach.” Trisha and MJ are settling into life in the United States and learning English. Trisha attends Palma Sola Elementary and MJ goes to Manatee High School. “Language has been the biggest barrier,” Reynolds said. “But they are learning. Their mother is so happy to have them here, and have the family complete.”

Milestones

The Kindat children visit the Manatee Public Beach Jan. 15. They had just arrived in the United States to join their mother and stepfather in Bradenton.

The Islander welcomes stories about islanders and island life, as well as photographs and notices of the milestones in readers’ lives — weddings, births, anniversaries, travels, obituaries and other events. Submit your announcements, photographs and info — along with contact information — to news@islander.org. Also, visit us on Facebook and join the 12,200-plus friends who “like” The Islander.

Sea turtles go to market

Frank Colwell, left, of Bradenton, talks turtles with Bob Haynes, Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch volunteer, Feb. 19, as Correne Thibodeau of Bradenton checks out materials at the turtle watch booth at the farmers market at City Pier Park on the corner of Pine Avenue and North Bay Drive in Anna Maria. Sea turtle nesting season begins May 1. Islander Photo: ChrisAnn Silver Esformes

Luiz Mario “MJ” Kindat, Belen Kindat Reynolds, Mark Reynolds and Scarlet “Trisha” Kindat await luggage Jan. 15 in the baggage claim area of Orlando International Airport. The children came to the United States to join their mother, who married FedEx driver Mark Reynolds. Islander Photos: Courtesy Mark Reynolds

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THE ISLANDER n Feb. 27, 2019 n 19

Sailing into MS St. Bernard Cruise into Fashion

Models show off fashions from Irene’s Resort Wear during the St. Bernard Catholic Church Women’s Guild luncheon and fashion show held Feb. 21 in the church activity hall. Islander Photos: Nenita Daguinotas

Holmes Beach Commissioner Jim Kihm escorts model Janice Belanger at the sold-out “Cruise into Fashion” Luncheon and Fashion Show presented Feb. 21 by the Women’s Guild at St. Bernard Catholic Church in Holmes Beach.

Valerie Diclemente, in the sailor cap, welcomes cruise passengers to the St. Bernard Catholic Church Feb. 21 for the Women’s Guild annual luncheon and fashion show. Ginny’s and Jane E’s at the Old IGA catered the event.

Mary Ann Brockman smiles at the St. Bernard Catholic Church luncheon and fashion show held Feb. 21. She said she doesn’t usually win, but won two baskets at the luncheon. RIGHT: Former Holmes Beach Commissioner Sandy Haas-Martens models cruisewear for the Women’s Guild luncheon and fashion show at St. Bernard Catholic Church, 248 S. Harbor Drive, Holmes Beach. Irene’s Resort Wear provided the fashions. Design 2000 did makeup and hair for the models. Galati Yacht Sales provided Champagne. Ginny’s and Jane E’s at the Old IGA prepared the lunch and Hometown Desserts furnished dessert. Islander Photos: Nenita Daguinotas

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20 n FEb. 27, 2019 n THE ISLANDER

Gathering

Tickets on sale for LBK fashion show

The Lord’s Warehouse Fashion Show will be at 11 a.m. Tuesday, March 5, at the Longboat Island Chapel, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key. The event will begin with a preview at 10 a.m. and the luncheon and show at 11 a.m. The fashion show will feature models previewing clothing from the Lord’s Warehouse thrift store, a Roser restocking thrift store 50-50 drawing, raffle items and a silent auction. Tickets are $25 and are available at the chapel, The Roser Memorial Community Church’s Wom6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key. en’s Guild Thrift Shop is seeking donations of clean For more information, call the chapel office at 941clothing, linens, housewares and kitchen items 10 383-6491. a.m.-1 p.m. Wednesdays. The guild does not accept for resale large or bulky St. Bernard sets sale furniture items, TVs, computers, microwaves or bed frames. Looking for odds-and-ends for the kitchen or an For more information, call the church at 941-779- oddity for the living room? 2733. Look to St. Bernard Catholic Church, which will The thrift shop is at 511 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. hold a two-day rummage sale this week. The sale typiIt is open for purchases 9:30 a.m.-2 p.m. Tues- cally features household goods, collectibles, books, days, Thursdays and Fridays and 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Sat- clothing, accessories and other items. urdays. The sale will take place 9 a.m.-noon Friday and Saturday, March 1-2, at the church hall, 248 S. Harbor Gathering Send announcements and photos to Drive, Holmes Beach. For more information, call the church office at news@islander.org and calendar@islander.org. 941-778-4769. The New Orleans Nighthawks Jazz Band will perform at 7 p.m. Tuesday, March 5, at Gloria Dei Lutheran Church in Holmes Beach. Islander File Photo

Gloria Dei plans Shrove Tuesday party

Gloria Dei Lutheran Church will bring New Orleans-style music to Anna Maria Island for a Shrove Tuesday celebration. The New Orleans Nighthawks Jazz Band will perform at 7 p.m. Tuesday, March 5, at the church, 6608 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Concert tickets are $20 and include a dessert break

between two 45-minute sets. Tickets are available at Gloria Dei during church office hours, which are 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. TuesdayThursday. For more information or to reserve tickets, contact the church at 941-778-1813 or gdlami18@gmail. com.

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Friday, March 1 9 a.m.-noon — St. Bernard Catholic Church rummage sale, 248 S. Harbor Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-4769. Saturday, March 2 9 a.m.-noon — St. Bernard Catholic Church rummage sale, 248 S. Harbor Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-4769. Tuesday, March 5 10 a.m. — Lord’s Warehouse Fashion Show, Longboat Island Chapel, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key. Fee applies. Information: 941-383-6491. 7 p.m. — New Orleans Nighthawks Jazz Band concert, Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, 6608 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Fee applies. Information: 941-778-1813. Wednesday, March 6 Noon — Ash Wednesday service, Roser Memorial Community Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Information: 941-778-0414. SAVE THE DATE Concert with Ring Sarasota, March 10, Roser Church. St. Patrick’s Day, March 17. Concert with Florida Gulf Coast Brass Quintet, March 17, Christ Church of Longboat Key Presbyterian (USA). Concert with Key Chorale Chamber Singers, March 31, Roser Church. ONGOING LISTINGS Christ Church of Longboat Key Presbyterian (USA), 6400 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key. Sunday service 8:30 a.m. and 10 a.m.; men’s Bible study 9 a.m. Monday; women’s Bible study 10 a.m. Wednesday. CrossPointe Fellowship, 8665 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. Sunday worship 9 a.m.; Sunday life group 10:30 a.m.; women’s prayer 9:30 a.m. Tuesday; men’s Bible study 7 a.m. Wednesday; fellowship meal 6:15 p.m. Wednesday; Wednesday Night Blast 6:45 p.m. Episcopal Church of the Annunciation, 4408 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. Sunday Holy Eucharist (Rite I) 8 a.m.; Sunday Holy Eucharist (Rite II) 10:30 a.m.; men’s breakfast 8 a.m. Wednesday. Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, 6608 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Saturday service 5 p.m.; Sunday service 9:30 a.m.; Sunday fellowship 10:30 a.m.; prayer partners 11:30 a.m. Wednesday; women’s Bible study 10 a.m. Thursday. Harvey Memorial Community Church, 300 Church Ave., Bradenton Beach. Sunday services 8:30 a.m. and 10:15 a.m. Longboat Island Chapel, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key. Sunday service 10 a.m.; fellowship following service. Roser Memorial Community Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Sunday worship 8:30 a.m. and 10 a.m.; adult Sunday school 8:45 a.m.; Sunday adult book study 9 a.m. Also, first and third Wednesdays, Roser Golfing for God, IMG Academy Golf Club, 4350 El Conquistador Parkway, Bradenton; second and fourth Wednesdays, 11 a.m., Just Older Youth/JOY Brown Bag Lunch Series; Tuesdays through April 2, 5:30 p.m., Terrific Tuesdays. St. Bernard Catholic Church, 248 S. Harbor Drive, Holmes Beach. Saturday confession 3 p.m.; Saturday Mass 4 p.m.; Sunday Mass 8:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m.; weekday Mass 8:30 a.m.

Billie Hayward shuffles the cards for bridge Feb. 12, at the Episcopal Church of the Annunciation, 4408 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, where players gather at noon Tuesdays. All are welcome.

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THE ISLANDER n FEb. 27, 2019 n 21

Obituary

Islander walks 32k for daughterâ€™s birthday, CHD

James Robert Dunne Sr., 89, of Anna Maria Island and formerly of Niskayuna, New York, died Jan. 16 in Lakeland. He was born July 8, 1929, in Cleveland, the son of Carroll Joseph and Wilma Agnes Sutmore. He was a graduate of Mayfield Heights High School in Mayfield Heights, Ohio, and graduated from Dunne Albion College in Albion, Michigan, with a bachelorâ€™s degree in English and history/political science. Mr. Dunne married Nancy Anne McSween Oct. 28, 1952. They enjoyed their time together by traveling throughout the world, playing golf and bridge and spending time with their many friends and family. He served many tours of duty in the U.S. Navy, including in the Korean War, on the USS Sullivan. In 1957, he was released from the Navy, but remained in the Naval Reserve. His final commission was as a captain in the Reserve. In civilian life, he began his career with General Electric in Schenectady, New York. He also enjoyed education so much he taught at a community college and then transitioned to the State University of New York. Upon leaving New York, Mr. Dunne and his wife had short stays in Springfield, Virginia, and Spring Lake, New Jersey, before heading south to Altamonte Springs in 1977 to be close to their sons. They enjoyed their time near Orlando and, in 1999, moved to their final destination together, Anna Maria Island. In Altamonte Springs, Mr. Dunne continued serving the education sector by teaching for Nova Southeastern, Columbia College, Florida Southern College and Webster University. He was very active and devoted to the Rotary Club in the cities where he lived. He developed student exchange programs, allowing students overseas to spend time in the United States and those in the United States to get educated in Europe. He also was responsible for heading a Rotary Peace Pole Project in several cities. He was a member of the Delta Tau Delta Fraternal System, as well as the Edison Club in New York and the Key Royale Club in Holmes Beach. And, in keeping with his love for education, he loved to tutor students at Anna Maria Elementary School. A funeral service will be held at 10:30 a.m. Friday,

Susan Timmins treks Gulf Drive in Bradenton Beach Feb. 14 during her 32K walk up and down â€” and up and down â€” Anna Maria Island for the Adult Congenital Heart Association. Islander Photo: Sandy Ambrogi

March 8, at St. Bernard Catholic Church, 248 S. Harbor Drive, Holmes Beach. He will be interned in a private service beside his wife at the Sarasota National Cemetery. Memorial donations may be sent to the Rotary Foundation of Anna Maria Island Inc., P.O. Box 1344, Holmes Beach FL 34218 or the Rotary Reader Character Books Fund at Anna Maria Elementary School, 4700 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach FL. 34217. Mr. Dunne is survived by his sons, James R. Jr. and wife Cindy of Lakeland, and Stephen and wife Patty of Winter Garden; grandson Ryan and wife Andrea of Murrells Inlet, South Carolina; and great-granddaughters Alayna and Evy.

'OLF GOES TO THE DOGS

2019

James Robert Dunne Sr.

By Sandy Ambrogi Islander Reporter Itâ€™s a long stroll for heart day. Islander Susan Timmins clocked 32 kilometers Valentineâ€™s Day on her two-lap stroll up and down Anna Maria Island. Wearing a backpack, carrying a water bottle and displaying a message, Timmins completed another annual heart walk Feb. 14 to draw attention to adults living with congenital heart defects. CHD hits close to home, as Timminsâ€™ and husband Sean Murphyâ€™s daughter Alexandra is 32 and living with CHD. Timmins increases the length of the walk to match her daughterâ€™s age. This year, she walked the length of the island twice, plus a few more kilometers. The distance amounts to 19.88 miles. Timmins said as she checked the distance on her smartphone and Fitbit, she thought about the corre-

sponding year in her daughterâ€™s life. The early years involved surgeries and hospital stays. Other years brought cardiac catheter interventions. And in many years, there were happy memories and milestones. Congenital Heart Awareness Day is observed on Valentineâ€™s Day and Timmins said she also thought of those who have died and those who are struggling. â€œEveryone living with CHD stands on the shoulders of those we lost, and we owe it to them to remember and improve things for those coming after them,â€? she said. This year, Timmins raised more than $7,000 for CHD with her walk. â€œI am so grateful that you all have been in my village in this,â€? she wrote to donors in a letter. â€œI dream of a day when the research is done, the data are there, the care is there and people born with these complicated special hearts and their doctors have all the tools and knowledge they need to live long and full lives,â€? Timmins said. The money she raised will be used to improve care for those living with congenital heart disease. One in every 100 babies is born with CHD â€” more than 40,000 babies a year in the United States. About 2.4 million people in the United States live with the CHD. Susan Timmins draws and shares a heart in the sand, symbolizing love for her daughter, at the conclusion of her walk. Islander Courtesy Photo

About CHD

Research into CHD, the most common of birth defects, remains underfunded and treatment is lacking, according to the Adult Congenital Heart Association. Innovations in medicine have resulted in 85-95 percent of people born with CHD now living to adulthood. For more information about congenital heart defects, visit the website at achaheart.org.

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22 n FEb. 27, 2019 n THE ISLANDER

Cortez festival, a win-win all around

By Kathy Prucnell Islander Reporter Could you tell by the volume of people flooding the small fishing village? Early reports from the organizers of the 37th Annual Cortez Commercial Fishing Festival indicated this year’s event was a success. Organizers estimated the weekend brought 15,000 people through the gates. The Cortez-based Florida Institute for Saltwater Heritage operated the fest with about 200 volunteers and all proceeds — from the admission tickets, the boat raffle, T-shirt sales and a percentage of concessions — will benefit the nonprofit. The crowds swelled Feb. 16, the first day of the fest, to 8,000-9,000 people, according to FISH vice president Jane von Hahmann, who, with festival chair Rose Lipke, handled event coordination. The second day saw a steady flow of people, von Hahmann said, estimating 6,000-7,000 went through the festival gates at a price of $4 per adult. Children were admitted free. Music brought dancers to their feet. People lined up for seafood and drinks. Artists generated sales. Lipke believes this year’s festival theme set the tone and generated public interest. “Changing Tides” gave a voice to economic and environmental threats facing Cortez and the state, including red tide, pollution, overpopulation, the net ban, runaway development, mangrove destruction and foreign seafood, she said. According to John Stevely, who headed up the Dock Talks, educational conversations with visitors on the waterfront included people seeking out environmental information. Nonprofits also reported interest. Leaders of Boy Scout Troop 76 reported $1,300 was raised for Matthew Kurutz’ Eagle Scout project to repair three bridges and remove invasive trees on the FISH Preserve. With $1,200 previously raised, they reached the $2,500 needed to begin the project. Suncoast Waterkeeper garnered more than 200 petition signatures asking Gov. Rick DeSantis for numeric water quality standards and to restaff the Department of Environmental Protection, which was slashed by former Gov. Rick Scott. Educational exhibits, including Dock Talks, drew people to presentations by University of Florida Sea Grant scientist Angela Collins and Terry Bert, formerly with the Florida Marine Research Institute, about Sarasota Bay’s marine life and coastal habitat. There was one emergency medical response during the festival. A volunteer was overcome by heat Feb. 16 but was OK on the second day of the fest, von Hahmann said. Volunteers helped at the gate, at a FISH booth, handling T-shirt sales and a boat raffle, cleanup and parking. Kris Martinez reported $2,000 generated by the ticket sales for the boat drawing. Ardeth Black said the festival T-shirts, vintage and new, were “almost all cleaned out.” Rocky von Hahmann complimented the Manatee

Patricia “Pattycakes” Banyas, bottom left, with son John Banyas, accepts the FISH Pioneer Award, which honors a founding member of Cortez, from FISH vice president Jane von Hahmann Feb. 16 at the Cortez Commercial Fishing Festival. Islander Photos: Kathy Prucnell County Sheriff’s Office, which coordinated traffic on Cortez Road West and the grounds crew of community service workers and volunteers. This year’s estimated numbers appear to have bested last year’s attendance, which had slumped to 13,000 from 17,000 in 2017 — with organizers blaming 2018’s low turnout on poorly routed traffic and competing festivals. The fest committee considered changing the midFebruary festival weekend to before Presidents Day to coincide with the Thunder by the Bay Music & Motorcycle Festival and other local events. The committee ultimately decided not to change the dates, Lipke said, due to the festival’s history on that weekend and because it would be difficult “to choose a date during season it wouldn’t be competing with some other festival.” “I’m good with going out on this one,” Lipke said, who has told the FISH board, while she’d remain on the committee for next year’s fest, she’d be giving up her chair responsibilities. “Set up was smooth, having the additional Monkey Bus on Saturday was great. Weather was perfect. Feedback from festivalgoers was amazing. Attendance was

Ardeth Black accepts the volunteer-of-the-year award, presented by FISH vice president Jane von Hahmann. Black heads the festival’s profitable T-shirt sales effort. great in spite of competing festivals and traffic. “Personally, I am happy,” she said. Jack Rodgers of Sunny Shores looks over the boat he won on a chance ticket in the FISH boat raffle at the Cortez Commercial Fishing Festival. The 18-foot leeboard sloop with an 1850s Florida workboat design was donated by Capt. Jimmy Hendon of St. Petersburg and restored by Joe Egolf, who heads the FISH Boatworks.

VISITORS MAY BE LOOKING FOR YOU ! Don’t miss your opportunity to market to our Island visitors. We offer more circulation weekly than the dailies on AMI, greater readership than any publication circulating on AMI, a solid reputation for success and the top award for BEST community news from the Florida Press Association! We have more than 24 years of service to the Island community, and readers are still flocking to The Islander. Call Toni Lyon for marketing tips, special deals and the “best news on Anna Maria Island” … call 941-778-7978.

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THE ISLANDER n FEb. 27, 2019 n 23

The cast of Murder Mystery dinner theater at the Center of Anna Maria Island takes a bow Feb. 22. The event took place in the center gym, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria. Islander Photos: Ryan Paice

Murder mystery

brings 80s drama to center

Audience members attending the Feb. 22 mystery dinner theater event at the Center of Anna Maria Island mingle during dinner, before the first act.

Don Purvis, left, as Coach Dick Diggler, interrogates Regina Jacobs — portrayed by writer-director Brianna Roberts — alongside Mike Shaughnessy’s portrayal of Mike the crazy bus driver Feb. 22 during Murder Mystery dinner theater at the Center of Anna Maria Island, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria.

T i k i & K i t t y’s Let’s go shopping! Tiki and Kitty love shopping. Sign up for their adventure by heading out the door to these shops. And say, “Hello, Sandpiper!” Sandpiper Cottage is a beautiful home decor store filled with unique and artistic pieces as found or repurposed by their talented artist. They take pride in transforming the old and worn out into a new perfectly, imperfect look. They feature a mixture of styles: cottage, coastal, beachy and even a little rustic farmhouse. They also have a great selection of gifts and jewelry. Sandpiper Cottage is sure to meet your needs for a much sought-after coastal decor. The “Sandpiper” looks forward to seeing you and your support of local small business. 30 + VENDORS & LOCAL ARTISTS Wed-Sat 10-5 Thur 10-6 615 59th St. W. Bradenton

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

You Never Know Thrift has everything you could possibly be looking for: clothes, kitchen utensils, small appliances, furniture, DVDs and autographed sports memorabilia. The inventory is constantly changing. So keep going back. You never know what you will find. Magnolia Antique Mall is a great little gem in Ellenton where you can find some of the nicest antiques and collectibles. Their vendors have an amazing array of pottery, glass, furniture and more. Blessed & Distressed in Palma Sola Square, around the corner from Winn-Dixie, offers 30-plus vendors and artists — everything from classic to quirky

— including vintage, upcycled, shabby chic, handsewn fanciful frocks and local crafts and art. You won’t be disappointed with this great shop, where the ambiance begs you to take a seat and relax. Scavengers Marketplace now has a shop on Anna Maria Island at the Island Shopping Center in Holmes Beach. Check out the new digs but don’t forget Sip & Shop at the Ellenton location, 4-7 p.m. the third Friday of the month. Wine, hors d’oeuvre and savings. Come help Moonracer Pet Rescue. Tide & Moon on the Historic Bridge Street Pier has a great selection of handmade jewelry, including island souvenirs, such as the AMI Pearl by silversmith Laura Shely. Also, check out the downtown Bradenton location at 1209 Third Ave. W., where you can sign up to learn the art of jewelry-making. Please, be sure to tell our friends in the shops, “The Islander sent me.”

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24 n FEb. 27, 2019 n THE ISLANDER

Witnesses sought in Anna Maria hit-and-run

By Kathy Prucnell Islander Reporter People who witnessed an SUV hit a bicyclist in the crosswalk at Pine Avenue and Gulf Drive in Anna Maria are asked to contact the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office. Charles Cowin of Birmingham, Alabama, the father of the 13-year-old bicyclist, reported a Mercedes-Benz

SUV ran a stop sign on Gulf Drive as it turned east on Pine Avenue and struck his son at 1:30 p.m. Feb. 18. He said the vehicle was “possibly blue.” “My son and his cousin had been granted the privilege of riding to Dips, their favorite ice cream shop,” Cowin wrote to The Islander in a Feb. 20 email. Now recovering in Alabama, the boy suffered impact to the right side of his body, shoulder to

Local newspaper owner arrested for DUI

By Kathy Prucnell Islander Reporter Stopped in Holmes Beach while driving a lowspeed vehicle, the co-owner of the Sun weekly newspaper was arrested Feb. 21 for driving under the influence. Margaret “Maggie” McGinley, 59, of Anna Maria, was pulled over at 8:45 p.m. in the 7700 block of Palm Drive by Manatee County Sheriff’s Deputy Peter Papas. Papas stopped her for swerving McGinley and failing to have the lights on after dark on her 2012 EZ-Go low-speed vehicle, according to the HBPD reports. HBPD Officer Alexander Hurt and Sgt. Thomas Fraser were dispatched to assist Papas with the traffic stop. Papas told Hurt he believed the vehicle’s driver was impaired after observing the LSV’s lights off, the turn blinker left on and the vehicle traveling unusually slow, an HBPD police report states. The report also states Papas observed the LSV, which was traveling south from Anna Maria, swerve into the northbound lane on five occasions. McGinley, who appeared to law enforcement to be disoriented, told the police she has diabetes, and Manatee County Emergency Medical Services was called to the scene. She told EMS workers she doesn’t take medication and they determined she was not having a

medical issue, according to the report. She also told EMS she was on Magnolia Avenue, about 2 miles from their actual location. Hurt reported McGinley asked if she knew who she was and informed him she owned a local newspaper. She then told Hurt his life on the island is dead. The police narrative details McGinley being antagonistic and swearing at law enforcement, and alternately cooperative. She had difficulty standing and walking and refused Hurt’s request to take a road sobriety test. She was taken into custody and transported to the HBPD station, where she refused to provide breath samples to measure her blood alcohol content. In addition to the DUI citation, McGinley was ticketed for refusing to submit to a balance test, driving with an expired driver’s license, driving a vehicle without lights at night and driving on the wrong side of the road. She was transported and booked at the Manatee County jail. She posted a $740 bond and was released Feb. 22. According to court records, MCSO arrested McGinley in 2009 for driving impaired in Anna Maria and, in 2010, she was convicted of DUI with property damage and a blood alcohol of 0.15 or higher. McGinley’s arraignment for the Feb. 21 arrest is set for 8:30 a.m. Monday, March 25, at the Manatee County Judicial Center, 1051 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton.

knee and probably a light concussion, according to Cowin. After the SUV hit the boy, it accelerated eastbound on Pine Avenue, he said. There were witnesses who helped his son, Cowin added, but no one called police and he does not have their names. His son and cousin hurried to their Palm Avenue house, where his parents were getting ready to catch a flight home. “Fortunately, the vehicle went over my son cleanly and he wasn’t hit by the wheels or dragged beneath the car,” Cowin said, adding the incident was reported to the MCSO from Alabama. Cowin and his family were visiting Anna Maria as they’ve done for 30 years, he said. Cowin asked witnesses to come forward with information by calling the MCSO at 941-747-3011 and referring to case 2019004679. Anonymous tips can be called into CrimeStoppers at 866-634-TIPS.

Roadwatch

Eyes on the road

The Florida Department of Transportation and Manatee County posted the following notices for the week of Feb. 25: Gulf Drive in Bradenton Beach: Crews were to begin final milling and paving of Gulf Drive from 39th Street North to 28th Street North Tuesday, Feb. 26, after The Islander went to press. This work was to be performed during daytime hours. Avenue C: Right-of-way restoration continues along Avenue C. Activities include installation of a stormwater infiltration system and driveway restoration. For more information about the pipeline replacement projects on the island, go online to amipipereplacement.com. For the latest road watch information, go online to www.fl511.com or dial 511.

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THE ISLANDER n Feb. 27, 2019 n 25

Streetlife

Bradenton woman accused of defrauding Galati Marine

By Kathy Prucnell

Island police blotter

Anna Maria Jan. 31, 700 block of North Shore Drive, fraud. A woman tried to purchase exercise equipment on eBay. The seller instructed her to pay $1,000 by eBay gift cards, so she did. After the equipment was not delivered and the seller failed to return her calls and emails, the woman reported the scam to Manatee County Sheriff’s Office. Feb. 12, Anna Maria City Hall/MCSO substation, 10005 Gulf Drive, information. The substation was contacted about a girl who went missing. Law enforcement searched for the missing minor, who was eventually located. Feb. 14, 600 block of South Bay Boulevard, missing tag. A resident reported his tag was lost or stolen. Anna Maria is policed by the MCSO. Bradenton Beach Feb. 15, 2500 block of Avenue B, criminal mischief. A woman reported an unknown person used an unknown object to break her vehicle’s windshield. The damage was estimated at $150. Feb. 16, 2200 block of Avenue B, domestic disturbance. Bradenton Beach police responded to a couple having an argument. They told an officer they were intoxicated after drinking all day at a festival and arguing because the woman had visited another man. Both agreed there had been no physical contact and declined to separate for the night. Feb. 18-19, Circle K, 103 Gulf Drive, S. trespass. A 57-year-old Bradenton Beach man was arrested for trespassing while he stood outside the store. The day before, a manager found the man sleeping on a bench outside the store and police warned him he would be arrested if he returned. Bradenton Beach is policed by BBPD. Cortez No reports.

Cortez is policed by the MCSO. Holmes Beach Feb. 14, 8100 block of Gulf Drive, theft. A woman reported a package containing dietary supplements, valued at $60, went missing between 1:17 p.m., when it was delivered, and 4:30 p.m., when she returned home. She also told Holmes Beach police that packages have been stolen from her residence since July 2017. Feb. 16, Manatee Public Beach, 4000 Gulf Drive, criminal mischief. An unknown male punched a trolley driver’s window and yelled, “Didn’t you see me?” The male then entered the trolley with a bloody hand and asked for a towel. After being given a paper towel, he left the area. HBPD and Manatee County sheriff’s deputies searched for the man, but found no one matching the description of the male. Traffic cameras were being checked for footage of the incident. Feb. 16, 200 block of 69th Street, missing/stolen property. Two bicycles, a women’s gold/brown Schwinn with a basket and a men’s blue bicycle, were reported missing or stolen. The bicycles were valued at $150. Feb. 17, 200 block of 71st Street, construction. A man and woman pressure washing a house for a contractor were issued ordinance violations for working on a Sunday. Their boss went to the scene and apologized. Feb. 19, 600 block of Foxworth, fraud. Two credit cards that a man had not requested arrived in the mail. The man also told police he checked his other credit cards and learned one account had been closed with a request to expedite a new card to an address that was not his. The man did not know how his identity had been compromised. Officers advised the man to place fraud alerts to protect his credit. Holmes Beach is policed by HBPD. Streetlife is based on incident reports and narratives from the BBPD, HBPD and MCSO.

A Bradenton woman was arrested Feb. 20 in connection with an alleged scheme to defraud at Galati Marine. A report from the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office states more than $67,000 went unaccounted for during the time Heather Jo O’Leary, 40, was employed by Galati, 900 N. Bay Blvd., Anna Maria. O’Leary was released on a $25,000 bond the day O’Leary of her arrest on the felony charge of scheme to defraud over $50,000. The MCSO report states O’Leary worked for Galati April 2014-July 2018 “in the capacity of accounts payable/receivable.” O’Leary resigned on “being questioned on checks not being applied to accounts.” An audit by Galati found “during the four years of Heather’s employment $67,927.37 cash had gone unaccounted. This was found through altered deposits with checks held to cover cash shortages.” A first appearance is scheduled for March 22 at the Manatee County Judicial Center in Bradenton.

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26 n FEb. 27, 2019 n THE ISLANDER

Mote presents lecture series

Turtle watch hosts beachfront talk

Suzi Fox, Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring executive director, presents an educational Turtle Talk Feb. 19 — including a simulated staked-off sea turtle nest indicative of nests on the beach during nesting season — to a group of people from Toronto on the beach at Bayfront Park in Anna Maria. Nesting season begins May 1 on Anna Maria Island. Islander Photo: ChrisAnn Silver Esformes

‘Island’ paddlers circumvent island

The AMI Dragon Boat Paddlers from Paradise members pose for a team photo Feb. 16 at Rick’s Mad Paddle for charities in Tampa. The race is a 7.3 paddle around Davis Island. The paddlers finished the course in 69 minutes, breaking their team record from 2018 by a minute. Islander Courtesy Photo

Mote Marine Aquarium will host a series of lectures Mondays in March. The lectures will begin at 6:30 p.m. in the WAVE Center at the aquarium, 1600 Ken Thompson Parkway on City Island in Sarasota. Dr. Erinn Muller, program manager of the Elizabeth Moore International Center for Coral Reef Research and Restoration, will lecture March 4 on coral restoration and efforts to save the Florida Reef. Additional lectures will be about shark biology and red tide. Tickets cost $10 for members and $15 for nonmembers. Also, Mote will hold its Party on the Pass at 6:30 p.m. Friday, March 15, in the aquarium courtyard. An invite to the public promised “a casual night full of good food, good fun and goodwill” supporting Jane’s Refuge: The Hospital for Dolphins and Whales at Mote Marine Laboratory, and the Mote Marine Laboratory Sea Turtle Rehabilitation Hospital. Tickets cost $125. For more information, go online to mote.org or call the aquarium at 941-388-4441.

Paddlers on the AMI Dragon Boat Paddlers from Paradise navigate their boat in Rick’s Mad Paddle, a charity race held Feb. 16 circumRed tide researcher to speak venting Davis Island in Tampa. The paddlers at brunch benefit next will race Saturday, Two environmental groups — Suncoast WaterMarch 2, at the Mira Bay keeper and ManaSota-88 — will welcome an expert Dragon Boat Festival in on red tide during a brunch benefit Sunday, March 3. Apollo Beach. Islander Brunch for the Bay will begin at noon at the BraCourtesy Photo denton Yacht Club, 4307 13th St. W., Palmetto. The featured speaker, Larry Brand, is a professor of marine biology at the University of Miami. He received his doctorate in biological oceanography through a joint program involving the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Woods Hole Oceanographic Institute on Cape Cod, according to a news release. The brunch will cost $60 — $30 for the meal and $30 to support the environmental groups’ work in the area, including on Anna Maria Island. For more information about the event, go online to brunchforthebay.com or call Suncoast Waterkeeper at 941-275-2922.

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THE ISLANDER n FEb. 27, 2019 n 27

Island photographer Jack Elka captured the scene on Manatee Public Beach on Labor Day 2015 using a camera and drone. The photograph hangs in The Islander’s Sidebar Gallery at the newspaper office, 3218 E. Bay Drive, Holmes Beach. Islander File Photo: Jack Elka

By Lisa Neff

Shooting scenes by the seashore

“You would enjoy Martin Parr,” remarked a visitor to The Islander office. She was studying the artwork on the office walls — the newspaper’s Sidebar Gallery — and drawn to the bold, bright photograph islander Jack Elka shot at the Manatee Public Beach. The woman admired the color, the contrast and the composition in Elka’s photograph and then suggested Neff I look up the beach scenes by Martin Parr, a photographer from the island where she lives — England. Parr, considered one of the best documentary photographers of his generation, has collected his beach photographs in “Martin Parr: Beach Therapy,” published by Damiani and distributed by Artbook. The photos are not of the white sandy shores of the Gulf of Mexico but instead of beaches across the United Kingdom, Spain, Argentina and Italy. In the introduction to “Beach Therapy,” Parr writes, “I have a long-established affection for the beach as a place to photograph; people can really be themselves as they sunbathe, play, swim and relax. For me, the beach is also a human laboratory where I can experiment with new ideas and approaches.” Parr’s earlier beach images date to the 1970s and were made using black-and-white film. Next came color experiments with a wide-angle lens and a medium format camera, followed by work with a digital camera, a macro lens and, more recently, a telephoto lens. His big, bright beaches are populated by people playing with surfboards and kites, basking in sunlight, bracing against the cold and standing in line to buy

Martin Parr’s beach scene, titled “Broadstairs, Kent, England, 2014,” from his series “Beach Therapy.” Islander Photo: Courtesy Martin Parr/ Magnum Photos

ice cream. Bright towels, umbrellas and tents blanket the sand. Pink petals, green trees, white seagulls and suntanned lovers pop in the foreground. Waves roll into the background. Sometimes the images conjure chaos and sometimes serenity. The photographs from England, Argentina, Italy and India immediately feel familiar, but I’ve never been to any of those places. They remind me of Illinois State Beach Park in Zion, Illinois, where I built my first sandcastles and splashed about in Lake Michigan, and also of White Avenue beach in Holmes Beach, Coquina Beach in Bradenton Beach and Spring Avenue beach near the Sandbar Restaurant in Anna Maria. I visited the island beaches recently to look with an artist’s eye at all the activity, to frame with a wideangle the shell-seekers strolling on the sand at White

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28 n Feb. 27, 2019 n THE ISLANDER

Horseshoes, flag football, weather highlight island sports By Kevin P. Cassidy Islander Reporter The 8-10 division of the youth flag football league at the Center of Anna Maria Island played two semifinal playoff games Feb. 20 starting with No. 2 seed Progressive Cabinetery taking on No. 6 Bins Be Clean. Progressive Cabinetry avoided the upset by Bins Be Clean, but the sixth-seeded team gave them all that Cassidy they could handle in holding on for a 25-22 victory to advance to the 8-10 division championship game. Progressive jumped out to an early 6-0 lead on a Connor Henderson touchdown run, but Bins Be Clean answered with a touchdown reception and subsequent extra-point catch by Cyrus Ryan to take a 7-6 lead. Progressive Cabinetry retook the lead when Henderson hit Gavin Lyssy with a short touchdown pass for a 12-7 lead. The Progressive Cabinetry defense forced a three-and-out to get the ball back and they didn’t take long to expand their lead. Landon Snyder outran everyone to the end zone for an 18-7 lead, which was extended to 19-7 with the extra point. Undaunted, Bins Be Clean fought back and cut into the Progressive lead when Connor Samblis took it to the house from 35 yards out. Samblis then hit Ryan for the two-point conversion to pull to 19-15. Progressive Cabinetry came right back with a long touchdown pass from Henderson to Lyssy to extend its lead to 25-15 with just over 4 minutes left to play. Bins Be Clean refused to go away, pulling within three points when Samblis ripped off a 45-yard touchdown run with just under 2 minutes left to play. All Progressive Cabinetry needed to do was get a first down and they could run out the clock, but the Bins Be Clean defense held and got the ball back with just under a minute to play. Prior to the snap, someone in the crowd gave the Bins Be Clean coaches advice, yelling, “Give the ball to Connor!” Seemingly heeding the advice, Samblis got the ball and raced around the right end and looked like he might take it to the house, but Henderson came through with a clutch flag pull to deny Samblis and, after one more play, time ran out on the Bins Be Clean upset bid with Progressive winning by a 25-22 margin. Progressive Cabinetry will take on No. 1 seed Beach Bums, which rolled to a 33-0 victory over Planet Stone in the second semifinal game. The 8-10 championship game is set for 5:30 p.m. Feb. 26, after press time for The Islander. Playoff action in the 11-13 division saw No. 3 seed Beach House Real Estate score a minor upset when the team edged No. 2 seed Island Charms 16-15. The second game saw No. 4 seed Grooms Automotive defeat No. 5 seed Tyler’s Ice Cream by a 19-7 score. No. 3 seed Beach House awaits the winner between the matchup for No. 1 seed CABB Cleaning and No. 4 seed Grooms Automotive in the last semifinal, which was set to play after press time at 6:30 p.m. Feb. 26. The 14-17 division championship game matchup is set after No. 3 seed Blue Lagoon outscored No. 2 seed Island Fitness by a 56-31 score. The second semifinal saw No. 1 seed ACE Hardware win by forfeit over Cloud Pest Control, which didn’t have enough players to field a team. The championship game is set to kickoff at 6:30

The Anna Maria Island Horseshoe pitchers pose with their medals from the Gulf Coast Games for Life Feb. 7 at G.T. Bray Park in Bradenton. Pictured are, front row, left to right, Sam Samuels, Dom Livedoti, Bob Palmer, Al Booker, Myles Macleod and John Crawford. Back row, left to right, Jay Disbrow, Tom Farrington, Gene Bobledyk, Gary Howcroft, Jim Waller and Bill Fox. Islander Courtesy Photo p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 27. Horseshoe players strike gold, silver, bronze The Anna Maria Island horseshoe pitchers ventured off island and brought back some hardware from the Gulf Coast Games for Life at G.T. Bray Park in Bradenton. Bob Palmer, Gene Bobeldyk and Gary Howcroft won gold medals while Al Booker Myles Macleod, Jay Disbrow, Tom Farrington and Jim Waller earned silver medals. Sam Samuels, Dom Livedoti, John Crawford and Bill Fox brought home bronze medals. Three teams emerged from pool play and battled for the day’s supremacy during Feb. 20 horseshoe action at the Anna Maria City Hall horseshoe pits. The team of Bill Fox and Sam Samuels drew the bye into the finals and watched as Bob Lee and Adin Shank rolled to a 22-8 victory over Bob Mason and John Crawford. Fox and Samuels then turned the tables on Mason and Crawford and cruised into the winner’s circle with a 23-4 victory. Four teams advanced to the knockout stage during the Feb. 23 games. Lee and Shank were again teamed up for a 26-4 victory over Tom Farrington and Gene Bobeldyk. The other semifinal saw Al Brooks and Dom Livedoti crush Bob Mason and Del Reese by a 21-2 score. Lee and Shank earned bragging rights for the day with a 21-14 victory over Brooks and Livedoti. Play gets underway at 9 a.m. Wednesdays and Saturdays. Warmups begin at 8:45 a.m. followed by random team selection. There is no charge to play and everyone is welcome.

Key Royale golf news Unseasonably warm weather for February brought out the golfers for a full week of action at the Key Royale Club in Holmes Beach. The men teed it off on Presidents Day with a ninehole, modified-Stableford system match. Lou Pagano earned individual honors on carding a plus-5. Pagano also was a player on the winning team with Billy MacMillan, Greg Shorten and Bob Soos. They combined on a plus-5. Second place went to the team of Marty Hicks, Tom Nelson and Peter Solleveld with a score of plus-2. The women got out on the course Feb. 19 for a nine-hole, individual-low-net match in four flights. Helen Pollock took the top spot in Flight A, firing a 1-under-par 31. Phyllis Roe at even-par 32 was in second place. Barb Estok grabbed first place in Flight B with a 5-over-par 37, one stroke ahead of second-place finisher Carol Duncan. Jan Turner fired a 3-under-par 29 to tie for the low round of the day and first place in Flight C. Connie Livanos took second place with a 1-under-par 31. Terry Westby’s 3-under-par 29 tied for low round of the day and gave her first place in Flight D. Marty Clark and Sue Powers tied for second on 32s. The men were back on the course Feb. 21 for a nine-hole scramble. The team of Ron Buck, Bob O’Brien, Bary Risner and Bill Shuman combined on a 4-under-par 28. The team of Mike Clements, Tim Donnor, Sam Major and Lou Pagano finished second at 3-under-par 29.

Bins Be Clean player Connor Samblis races upfield with Progressive Cabinetry defenders Landon Snyder and Connor Henderson in hot pursuit during playoffs for the 8-10 division in flag football at the Center of Anna Maria Island. Islander Photos: Kevin P. Cassidy

Southernaire Fishing Charters

Anna Maria Island Tides

Date

Feb 27 Feb 28 March 1 March 2 March 3 March 4 March 5 March 6

5:30p 6:47p 11:23a 11:39a 11:55a 12:08p 12:17p 12:25p

HIGH

1.8 1.8 1.3 1.3 1.4 1.4 1.4 1.4

— — 8:02p 9:03p 9:54p 10:36p 11:14p 11:50p

HIGH

— 12:59a — 2:12a 1.8 3:10a 1.9 3:55a 1.9 4:33a 1.9 5:05a 1.9 5:33a 1.9 5:58a

LOW

-0.2 -0.3 -0.4 -0.4 -0.4 -0.4 -0.3 -0.2

— — 1:44p 3:00p 3:51p 4:31p 5:05p 5:39p

LOW

Moon

— — 1.2 1.1 1.0 0.8 0.7 0.5 New

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

THE ISLANDER n FEb. 27, 2019 n 29

Weather, flats fishing heat up as February winds up

By Capt. Danny Stasny Islander Reporter With near perfect weather settling in around Anna Maria Island, the fishing is sure to follow suit. As for the final week of February, we are experiencing temperatures in the mid 80s, resulting in the perfect scenario for great springtime fishing — and it’s still winter. The tail end of the sheepshead bite is going strong — but not for long. Stasny With the recent full moon, these fish are in mid-spawn and, once their spawn ends, they will disperse throughout our waters, making them much harder to target. But, that’s OK. With water temps on the rise, fishing the flats is really heating up. Schools of white bait are slowly making a showing on the grass flats, which means it’s time to net bait again. Or you can just buy it from M&M Bait Co. at the Kingfish Boat Ramp. Sooner than later it’s going to be necessary to have shiners in the bait tank if you plan to fish the flats successfully. Even now, with water temps in the high 60s to low 70s, shiners are working well for catch-andrelease snook and redfish. Spotted seatrout also are quickly responding to shiners. And, as a reminder, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission implemented a new rule as to size limit. You cannot harvest spotted seatrout over 20 inches in our region. The slot remains 15-20 inches and the bag limit remains at four fish per person per day. It’s probably best to let these “over 20-inch fish” go anyway, as they are spawning fish. They also are often riddled with worms. Other spring inshore action includes pompano and whiting. These fish can be caught along the beaches of Anna Maria Island by casting live shrimp or sand fleas into the surf. While targeting these fish, you may encounter black drum or a bonnethead shark. On my Southernaire charters, I’m finishing up the sheepshead bite before they spawn out. We’ve had quite a few 5-6 pound sheepies, as well as numerous fish in the 2-pound range. While targeting sheepshead, I’m noticing the welcome arrival of mangrove snapper. These guys are being caught more frequently and are averaging 12-14 inches, with some coming in at 18 inches. Dock fishing for redfish is pretty good, although, as the water temps rise, I’m noticing the reds are starting to disperse. I’m seeing a few black drum mixed in with the redfish bite, but they too are beginning to move on. Fishing the flats for spotted seatrout is quite good. I’m putting my clients on many fish in the slot of 15-20 inches and quite a few over-slot fish, too. These fish are being caught on live shrimp under a popping cork. Capt. Warren Girle is fishing nearshore ledges and

Fishing Charters Capt. Warren Girle

Catherine Sheridan of Chicago shows off an over-slot seatrout she caught while fishing with Capt. Danny Stasny of Southernaire Fishing Charters.

hard bottom for a variety of species. He’s setting up anglers with a bottom rig combined with a live shrimp and they’re attracting mangrove snapper, flounder, Key West grunts, porgies and sheepshead. Moving inshore, Girle is baiting live shrimp, which is working well for sheepshead, black drum and catchand-release redfish. To catch these species, Girle has anglers casting baits in canals among the docks and seawalls. Lastly, drifting over deep grass flats in Sarasota Bay and casting soft plastics on a jig head is resulting in catches of spotted seatrout. Capt. Aaron Lowman is working nearshore structure with ledges and hard bottom. Key West grunts and mangrove snapper are abundant in these areas, which can result in excellent fishing, especially for those looking to host a fish fry. While in these areas, Lowman reports seeing large bait schools, which are attracting some kingfish. Moving inshore, Lowman is targeting sheepshead around rocks and docks. In these same areas are black drum and catch-and-release redfish. When targeting fish over the grass flats, Lowman’s got his clients casting a jig to attract a successful bite from spotted seatrout and pompano. Capt. Jason Stock is charging it offshore for a variety of fish. He reports large amberjack are being caught with regularity around wrecks and other structure. Live bait or artificials are working well to lure these hard-fighting fish to bite. Goliath grouper are lingering around the wrecks, and while they are catch-and-release, their size makes them for a thrill for anglers when they come bobbing to the surface from the depths. For those fishers in search of something to take home for dinner, Stock is catching mangrove snapper, porgies and Key West grunts. Capt. David White of Anna Maria Charters is

working charters inshore for a variety of species. Using live shrimp as bait, White is putting anglers on sheepshead, black drum, pompano and catch-and-release redfish, mostly around docks and rocks. As for the pompano, casting jigs over deep grass flats or in the passes is working well. With the arrival of shiners, White is targeting snook on the flats. Casting these live baits is yielding many snook on a 4-hour charter. PLEASE SEE FISHING, PAGE 31

Capt. Jason Stock and brother Jeremy Stock lucked into a hot mangrove snapper bite offshore on a slick calm day Feb. 8 in 100-feet of water. The mangrove snapper hooked up on freelining baits on light tackle, which also produced yellowtail snapper and red grouper. Capt. Stock said the offshore fishery is “very productive right now.”

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

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DOCKED AT SEAFOOD SHACK

30 n FEb. 27, 2019 n THE ISLANDER

isl

Event venue celebrates opening

biz

BY SANDY AMBROGI

Pirates and produce, AMI hits another ‘best’

Privateer Hammer produces new business In the space where Village Idiot Pizza lived and died, a local pirate is taking a chance on fresh produce. Tim “Hammer” Thompson, a longtime Anna Maria Island Privateer, confirmed he is opening Thompson’s Produce at 11904 Cortez Road W., Cortez. Thompson said he would sign a lease March 1 and plans to open by April 1. The store will have a twist on pricing: produce will be sold by the piece, not the pound. Thompson, posting on Facebook Feb. 21, said he would sell fresh Florida products, including dairy, breads, soups and flowers. Don’t go in looking for skulls and crossbones. Thompson’s store will reflect his childhood farm life, including plans to make the store resemble a barn. We knew the doughnuts were special People hang around The Donut Experiment, 210 C Pine Ave., Anna Maria, noshing on the design-it-yourself circles of vanilla cake doughnuts with a whateveryou-can-dream-up combination of toppings. Now other cities are finding out about the experiment that began for Cecilia and Shawn Wampole after a vacation to Anna Maria Island in 2012. The husband and wife decided to move to paradise and open a doughnut shop after a taste of the island, selling their Philadelphia area home and quitting their jobs. Seven years later, the Wampoles are preparing to open the ninth franchise of The Donut Experiment in Orlando. It will be Florida’s fourth store. The others are in Anna Maria, Indian Shores and St. Augustine. Franchises also have opened in South Carolina, Indiana, Iowa and Massachusetts. Cecelia Wampole told The Islander, “It’s all pretty crazy. It started out as a joke between Shawn and I — not a joke, more like a what if moment. What if we sold our house and moved to the beach to sell doughnuts? It’s taught us a lot.”

The Wampoles have two more possible openings in 2019. They began franchising in 2015, but they retain ownership of the Anna Maria store. The Donut Experiment in Anna Maria is open 7 a.m.-3 p.m. during season, 7 a.m.- 1 p.m. the remainder of the year. For more information, call 941-896-3172. Developer buys Bali Hai resort Island developer Shawn Kaleta closed Feb. 16 on the purchase of the Bali Hai Beach Resort, 6900 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. Kaleta confirmed the sales price was $17 million. The property has been in the Bouziane family since 1973, according to Florida Sunbiz records. The lodging is on the shore of Gulf of Mexico and will undergo renovations. The resort currently features one- and two-bedroom condos, a heated pool, laundry facilities and 300feet of private beach. “We will turn it to an amazing first-class resort with many new improvements and services offered,” Kaleta said in a statement to The Islander Feb. 22. No time frame was given for the renovations. Coastal Living just can’t get enough of AMI Here we go again. Lists of “the bests” seem to be a popular marketing tool for magazines. CoastalLiving.com put Anna Maria Island at No. 1 on a list of the 15 best places to visit in Florida. The travel and leisure website said the island “might be Florida’s best-kept secret because the postcard-perfect beaches are rarely crowded.” Of course, AMI’s amenities are no secret. The des-

Matthew Mayo, center, prepares to cut the ribbon Feb. 21 celebrating the grand opening of Bridge Street Events at 119 Bridge St., Bradenton Beach, with dignitaries and members of the Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce. Pictured are chamber representatives Katy Demick, left, Karen Riley-Love, Beverly Lesnick, chamber chair, Mayo, Wende Webb and Bradenton Beach Mayor John Chappie. Islander Photo: Sandy Ambrogi ignation continues CL’s love affair with the barrier island, naming it among Florida’s top spots to visit year after year. Deli flip-flop In a matter of here one day and gone the next, the Bridge Street Deli was sold and a new 941 Deli is operating in the space in the Hynds building on Bridge Street in Bradenton Beach, according to building coowner Debbie Hynds. Vinny’s kitchen update Vinny’s Italian Kitchen is set to open this week, so when you do your meal planning, include some fresh baked goods, Italian takeout entrees, fresh-made pizza and some delish desserts. Stay busy, islanders.

Islander archive dates to 1992, available 24/7

The Islander is an invited participant in the digital newspaper library for the University of Florida George A. Smathers Libraries. The collection of Islanders dates from the first edition in 1992 to the current week. It’s all on the UofF digital library site now, all searchable by name or date. It can be found online at ufdc.ufl.edu. Simple, easy and available 24/7. Just search “islander.”

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During January and February, purchase and install a NAPA Legend Battery and receive a $15 Prepaid Visa card or purchase and install a NAPA Legend Premium Battery and receive a $25 prepaid Visa card. Ask us for details.

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THE ISLANDER n FEb. 27, 2019 n 31

Event space opens with murder, dinner

Performers from the Manatee Players are “onstage” Feb. 21 at Bridge Street Events, 119 Bridge St., Bradenton Beach, for the opening of the venue. The production included a four-course meal catered by Vinny’s Italian Kitchen of Holmes Beach, audience member participation and a chance to name the murderer at the conclusion. Islander Photos: Sandy Ambrogi

BizCal

COMPILED BY SANDY AMBROGI

AMI CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Wednesday, Feb. 27 5 p.m. — Mix and mingle with the chamber board of directors at the ofﬁce, 5313 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. Members $5, guests $10, reservations requested. Information: 941-778-1541, info@amichamber.org. Wednesday, March 13 7:45 a.m. — Early-riser breakfast, Harry’s Grill and Bistro, 9903 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria. Members $8, guests $16. Information: 941778-1541, info@amichamber.org. Sunday, March 31 Deadline for scholarship applications. Information: 941-7781541, info@amichamber.org. LONGBOAT KEY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Thursday, March 7 11:30 a.m. — Networking@Noon, Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse and Wine Bar, 2001 Siesta Drive, Sarasota. Members $25, guests $35. Information: 941-383-2466, gloefgren@ lbkchamber.com. Tuesday, March 19 8:30 a.m. — Chamber 360 New Member and Refresher Breakfast, chamber ofﬁce, 5390 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key. No charge but RSVP is required and space is limited. Information: 941383-2466 gloefgren@lbkchamber.com. GET LISTED Planning a business-related event? Submit your information to news@islander.org.

Mike Norman Realty INC

Chef Vinny Esposito pauses during the opening night for a dinner-theater production at Bridge Street Events, where he and his crew wowed attendees with a four-course dinner and wine.

FWC changes shark fishing rules

Shark hunters be aware. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission in February changed shark fishing regulations, including management changes for the shore-based shark fishery. In recent years, local authorities, in Anna Maria in particular, have dealt with clashes between beachgoers, crabbers and shore-based shark fishers. Complaints also were made by beachgoers about chumming by fishers at the Rod & Reel Pier. The FWC, in a news release, said the rules that take effect July 1 are intended to increase survival of released sharks, improve information gathering for the fishery and address public safety concerns. Rule changes include: • Creating a mandatory, no-cost, annual shorebased shark fishing permit.

Business news

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

• Requiring those under 16 to meet an educational requirement unless they fish with an adult with a permit. • Prohibiting chumming when fishing from the beach for any species. • Requiring the immediate release of prohibited shark species when fishing from the shore. • Requiring that prohibited shark species remain in the water when fishing from shore or from a vessel. • Requiring fishers use a device capable of quickly cutting the leader or hook when targeting sharks. Defining beach, chumming and shore-based shark fisher.

FISHING CONTINUED FROM PAGE 29

Jim Malfese at the Rod & Reel Pier is seeing pier fishers reeling up numerous fish throughout the day. Those fishers opting to use live shrimp as bait are being rewarded with many sheepshead. Most sheepies are 1-2 pounds, although larger ones are being caught, too. Also, while using live shrimp, fishers are hooking up with black drum, a few snapper and some pompano. Send high-resolution photos and fishing reports to fish@islander.org.

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32 n FEb. 27, 2019 n THE ISLANDER

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

FREEBIE ITEMS FOR SALE

GARAGE SALES Continued

TWO SLEEPER SOFAS: Two years old. Garage motor. $50 each. Karl, 941-704-7798. dieter.kurz@bluewin.ch.

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

ANNUAL FLEA MARKET: 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday, March 2. Baked goods, clothing, jewelry, linens, tools, books, collectables, housewares, furniture. Mt. Vernon Clubhouse, 4701 Independence Drive, south side of Cortez Road.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

LOST AND FOUND

HIT AND RUN: On Monday, Feb. 18 (President’s Day) my son was hit by a Mercedes SUV at the corner of Gulf Drive. and Pine Avenue in Anna Maria at about 1:30 p.m. Thankfully, he escaped serious injury. If anyone witnessed or knows anything about this incident, I would be grateful if they contacted the Manatee County Sheriff’s Ofﬁce and refer to case #2019004679. Thank you, Charles Cowin.

LOST IN ANNA Maria on Feb. 15: Ray Ban sunglasses in case. Please, call 941-2514418.

COMPUTER: DELL, WINDOWS 10. refurbished, $70. 941-756-6728. GLASS-TOP COFFEE table, $25, countertop microwave like-new, $25, four-shelf bamboo unit, $25. Call 570-352-6676. ANTIQUE PARTNER DESK: All wood, $1,000. See at The Islander office, 3218 E. Bay Drive, Holmes Beach. 941-778-7978. FOUR OAK OFFICE chairs: Antiques, perfect for eclectic dining set. The Islander newspaper, 3218 E. Bay Drive, Holmes Beach. 941778-7978. THE ISLANDER. The best news on Anna Maria Island since 1992.

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ANSWERS TO FEB. 27 PUZZLE

M E T H O D

O N R I C E

C O U G H E D

A C C E S S

R H O D E S

M O R G A N

E S T C H A Y S H P E I E C E C I V O H M A BLUE H K L A A N T S H S C H O M O M O A N BROWN S O B O U R O S E U N E A S E D E R S T S O

O D A R I S T A S F O P O M V E R GREEN I L N A P E N S T S O W S L E D O O L I L A L E C P R E T U M A S M A T ORANGE P T I M L A W A A Y I N P E N

ESTATE SALE: 8 a.m.-noon Friday and Saturday, March 1-2. 218 82nd St., Holmes Beach.

ROSER THRIFT SHOP and annex open 9:30 a.m.- 2 p.m. Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday. Donations preferred 9 a.m.-11 a.m., Wednesdays. 511 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Call 941-779-2733. GETTING BETTER EACH year: St. Mary, Star of the Sea Women’s Guild Royal Rummage Sale XII. “Early bird” sale: Noon-4 p.m. Friday, March 1. Admission, $5. Regular sale: 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday, March 2. Free admission. Always LBK’S biggest and best! Clothing, furniture, art, collectibles, jewelry, housewares, linens, toys, electronics, books and much, much, more! St. Mary, Star of the Sea Catholic Church, 4280 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key. Father Edward Pick Hall.