Issuu

VOLUME 29, NO. 1

Hurray! The start of another year!

OCT. 28, 2020 FREE

The Best news on anna maria island Since 1992 Astheworldterns. 6 Tick tock. The clocks fall back. 3

islander.org

Tragedy: 2 deaths, investigation, remembrances By ryan Paice islander reporter

Bradenton Beach police are still working to unravel the truth behind the deaths of two residents. Meetings. 4 The District 12 Medical Examiner’s Office conducted autopsies Oct. 19 on the Opinions. 6 bodies of Sabrina Dumdei, 37, and Zachary Winton, 34, but did not release results as of Oct. 28 due to the ongoing investigation into 10-20 YEARS AGO the “probable” murder-suicide. Looking back. 7 Detective Sgt. Lenard Diaz, who is leading the Bradenton Beach Police Department HB mayor delivers ‘state investigation, has not disclosed any new of the city.’ 8 details about the case since confirming the Pier tenant progress. 8 identities of Dumdei and Winton. The pair had a history of domestic abuse and violence, but uncertainty around the case remains due to unanswered questions: Calendar, announce• When did the incident occur? ments. 10-11 • What weapons were used? • Where were the bodies found within ISL BIZ: 12 the apartment? anniversary In the meantime, here’s what The quiz. 14 Islander knows: At about 2:30 p.m. Oct. 17, Dumdei’s PTO makes plans. 15 father, Keith, called the BBPD to report that he found the bodies of his daughter and her ami street map. 16-17 roommate at their residence, a mostly empty unit in a triplex at 2514 Ave. C. Gathering. 18 Dumdei’s father told police that when he failed to reach his daughter by phone, he GoodDeeds. 18 drove to the home she shared with Winton. When he saw her body on the floor inside, he Obituaries. 19 Balloting builds to election day. 4

BBPd chief set for retirement goal. 19

Streetlife. 20 get in the game. 22 murder, 12 years later. 23 Cortez mobilizes. 23 renourishment reaches Coquina. 23

NESTING NOTES. 24 amiTW finale.

gone batty. 25 Sports roundup. 26 Pelagics invade. 27

PropertyWatch. 28 CLASSIFIEDS. 28

NYT puzzle.

a memorial for Sabrina dumdei, including a framed picture, cross, flowers and stuffed animals, stands Oct. 22 as a remembrance outside the home where she and Zachary Winton were found dead. islander Photo: ryan Paice

broke the window on the door and entered. BBPD Chief Sam Speciale, who lives a block over on Avenue B, was the first official to respond, following a neighbor to the triplex after being told of the deaths. Speciale said he knew Dumdei as a family friend who’d worked for his wife in the past at a hair salon she owned. Bradenton Beach resident Patty Shay

told The Islander she walked by the scene after Speciale arrived and heard Dumdei’s mother, Mary, say, “My daughter and her boyfriend just killed each other.” Diaz and BBPD officers Steve Masi and Devon Straight responded around 2:40 p.m. and cordoned the property. The Manatee County Sheriff’s Office Turn TO MURDER, Page 2

Islander guide to safe Halloween, treats, fun mask By Chrisann allen islander reporter

This Halloween, the scariest spook on Anna Maria Island is microscopic. Cases of the novel coronavirus again are on the rise in some areas of the country, including Florida, according to statistics from the Florida Department of Health. As such, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention provided guidelines for trick-or-treating and some alternate activities for people choosing to play it safe. Most annual Halloween festivities for 2020 on Anna Maria Island were canceled, including the Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce’s annual Trail of Treats, an opportunity for businesses to pass out candy to hordes of costume-clad children. “The chamber event was usually so

The Nov. 3 island election results will be posted election night at www.islander.org.

busy,” Holmes Beach Commissioner Pat Morton, also an employee of Holmes Beach Ace Hardware, said Oct. 14. “Not sure where they are going to go this year.” The Anna Maria Island Moose Lodge No. 2188, 110 Gulf Drive S., Bradenton Beach, will host a private event for members’ children Oct. 31 — a drive-thru with a bag of candy for each kid with Tommy Moose, the lodge mascot, waving to the parade of passing kids in vehicles. “We wanted to do something safe for our kids,” Byron Dalton, lodge administrator, said Oct. 15. “We figured they can stay in their cars and still get a treat.” In Anna Maria, the Sandbar Restaurant, 100 Spring Ave., is hosting a “Spookfest” on the beach for kids and grown-ups, including a screening of the movie “Jaws,” games, mask decorating and a pop-up menu, 6-9 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 31. The cost is $20 for adults and $10 for kids. People can make reservations through the restaurant’s Facebook page. According to some island residents, trick-or-treating in neighborhoods has grown Turn TO HALLOWEEN, Page 3

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Clip, color, mask up. Page 14

Mask up for Halloween don’t “boo” Halloween. We invite readers to get in costume for Halloween and share their photos with The islander and our island community via social media — #amiHalloween and tag us: @islandernewspaper on facebook, @ami_islander on Twitter and @theislanderami on instagram. for those without costumes, we offer an easy-to-use pumpkin mask. Please, turn to page 14 to clip, color and string.

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Murder continued from page 1

Crime Scene Unit arrived around 2:50 p.m. and began placing evidence markers and photographing the scene. The couple’s former landlords, who reportedly sold the triplex Oct. 16, arrived around 4 p.m. and spoke with officers. From the street, a broken, blood-spattered chair was visible on the balcony of the second-floor apartment shared by the couple. Blood also could be seen splashed across a sliding door, the window blinds behind the chair and smeared on another door. Police confirmed the bodies inside. Speciale told The Islander there was too much blood to know what happened without autopsies. “It was a gruesome scene,” Diaz said. “Probably the worst I’ve seen in my 30 years.” Employees from the medical examiner’s office removed the bodies from the residence about 10 p.m. Diaz said no neighbors reported witnessing the incident. History Dumdei and Winton had been involved in several domestic incidents in recent months. She was arrested July 19 for misdemeanor battery after allegedly striking Winton repeatedly in the chest during an incident in Bradenton. A probable cause affidavit states, “Mr. Winton reported that they were arguing while sitting on the porch when Ms. Dumdei threw a can at him. He was struck on the lip and he suffered a small laceration, as well as some swelling.” He added that she punched him several times in the chest “with a closed fist.” Winton didn’t press charges and Dumdei was released. The case was dropped July 23. Winton was arrested for misdemeanor domestic battery Aug. 10 after striking Dumdei during an altercation. A probable cause affidavit reads, “During the course of the argument, the defendant struck the victim on the right eye with a closed fist in a backhanded

motion.” “As a result of this incident, the victim sustained broken blood vessels to the right eye, as well as a large bruise which extends from the eyebrow to the bridge of the nose and also covers the right cheek.” Dumdei did not pursue charges against Winton, but asked that an injunction be filed on her behalf, according to the affidavit. Winton entered a not guilty plea and was released after posting bond, which was later disposed. The state attorney’s office dropped the charges Aug. 24. The next incident was Aug. 31, when Winton was arrested on four felonies — aggravated assault of his partner with a deadly weapon without intent to kill, battery, false imprisonment and tampering with a witness. The BBPD’s report states, “Victim stated Winton refused to let her leave the house or his sight by threats of violence. She felt confined. Defendant then grabbed her by the face and held a razor knife to her neck and said, ‘Leave and see what happens.’ Victim had a wellfounded fear that Winton had the ability to carry out such a threat and that it would take place.” The report continues, “Victim stated defendant would not allow her to use the phone, but only to call his sister, as he hindered or delayed her from making any other calls. Victim finally got away and made the call to 911 dispatch but had to hang up in the middle of the call, as defendant had found her and once again put her in fear of violence. Upon my arrival, defendant was yelling and walking at victim with a large kitchen knife I observed in his right back pocket.” “While detained in the police department, Winton made numerous threatening remarks about what he was going to do to victim when he gets out, such as ‘I will kill her. She’s gonna pay. If I get charged with felonies, I’ll kill her then myself. I will cut her throat.’” Winton denied the allegations and was released Sept. 1 after posting a $16,000 bail, and the case remained open. Winton was instructed not to contact Dumdei, but Winton’s attorney filed a motion Sept. 9 for consensual

contact, stating that his client had no previous felony charges and no history of physical violence. Judge Lon Arend of the 12th Judicial Circuit Court granted a motion Sept. 15 to lift the no-contact order. The BBPD was most recently dispatched to the home Oct. 12 — less than a week before the couple’s death — after Dumdei called to report that Winton took her keys and she felt threatened. However, when officers arrived, Dumdei told them assistance wasn’t needed and police left. The aftermath Waves of support for the grieving Dumdei family followed news of the deaths. By Oct. 19, neighbors had created a memorial for Dumdei outside the triplex, with stuffed animals, flowers, balloons, a cross and a framed photo of Dumdei. Dumdei’s sister, Crystal, started a GoFundMe fundraiser — “Sabrina Dumdei” — to help the family raise funds for funeral costs and other expenses. “We are starting this gofundme to help her family in this time of need with funeral costs and all other expenses. Sabrina was a kind, beautiful, funny, loving, caring, smart woman with a heart of gold. This is an extremely difficult time for her loved ones, and every little thing helps. Thank you for all of your support and love, God bless,” the fundraiser’s description states. As of Oct. 24, the fundraiser had $11,130 of its $30,000 goal from 100 donors and the GoFundMe page had 757 shares. Also, Facebook user Jesse Shelease Rittenhouse posted Oct. 22 that she was working with an attorney to create a “Sabrina Dumdei Foundation” to “raise tax-free donations to help women’s shelters and to raise awareness against domestic violence in Brina’s memory. We hope and pray that this foundation will help save other women in similar situations while carrying on Brina’s name and legacy with dignity and honor.” In other news, Speciale told The Islander Oct. 22 that the property’s new landlords notified him that they plan to demolish the house due to the deaths.

HAPPY HALLOWEEN!

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OCT. 28, 2020 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 3 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

HALLOWeeN COnTinued frOm Page 1

scant as vacation rentals replace family residences. Previously, people would trick-or-treat in neighborhoods with predominantly full-time residents. In lieu of trick-or-treating, some families have opted to have small parties. “Instead of trick-or-treating we are going to have a small family costume party, just for the cousins in our family,” Katy Roadman of Holmes Beach, a mother of five kids, said Oct. 18. “Praying that things return back to normal next year so the new families of the island get to experience what amazing small-town celebrations we have in Holmes Beach.” “We haven’t had a single trick-or-treater in the 17 years I’ve lived here,” Tjet Martin, Bradenton Beach resident and vacation rental owner in the 300 block of Gulf Drive South, said Oct. 14. “I would be shocked if someone showed up. Especially this year.” But stranger things have happened. So this year the CDC is asking people to follow a set of guidelines when tricking-or-treating, including: • Avoid direct contact with trick-or-treaters, giving out treats outdoors; • Set up a station with individually bagged treats; • Wash hands and wear a cloth mask; • Do not wear a costume mask as a substitute or place the costume over a cloth mask, as breathing problems could occur; • Children under 2 or people with breathing difficulties should not wear face masks; • Stay at least 6 feet from people not sharing a residence; • Bring hand sanitizer while trick-or-treating and apply after each stop. Additionally, the CDC provided alternatives: • Decorate and carve pumpkins; • Visit a pumpkin patch; • Hide treats around the house; • Watch Halloween movies with household members.

a tree laden with ghosts and jacko-lanterns Oct. 15 in the 6400 block of marina drive in Holmes Beach signals Halloween is approaching. festivities are expected to be downplayed and some were canceled due to the coronavirus pandemic. islander Photo: Chrisann allen

For the record

The week of Oct. 18, 5.3% of people tested were positive, compared with 4.6% the week of Oct. 11. Of the 2,710 test results reported from Oct. 23-25, 129 Manatee County residents and nonresidents tested positive, bringing the total number of infections since the outbreak began to 12,971. The cumulative percentage of people to test positive for the virus in the county since the first case was reported March 1 was 10.86% and 327 people had died due to complications of COVID-19 as of Oct. 26.

daylight saving time ending

Daylight saving time will end at 2 a.m. Sunday, Nov. 1, with most of the country falling back an hour. About 70 other countries observe a time change. Public safety officials say it’s a good idea to change batteries in smoke and carbon-monoxide detectors when you change the clocks.

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Balloting builds up to election day Ballots are being cast in the buildup to Election Day, when islanders get their say on who should take office — from the White House to the city hall. When the close polls at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 3, islanders also will have cast their votes on six state constitutional amendments, a county tax-bond issue, commission seats in Holmes Beach and, in Bradenton Beach, two charter questions. Early voting in the 2020 general election will con-

Vote

2020

Local contests to be decided Nov. 3

tinue 8:30 a.m.-6:30 p.m. through Sunday, Nov. 1. The nearest early-voting location to Anna Maria Island is the Manatee County Utilities Office, 4410 66th St. W., Bradenton. On Election Day, polls will be open 7 a.m.-7 p.m. Anna Maria voters will cast ballots at Roser Memorial Community Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Bradenton Beach voters will cast ballots at the old fire hall, 201 Second St. N. Holmes Beach voters will cast ballots at St. Ber-

nard Catholic Church, 248 S. Harbor Drive. Additionally, a record number of people requested ballots by mail, which must be returned to the SOE by 7 p.m. Election Day. Mail-in ballots can be dropped off at the supervisor of elections office 24/7 at 600 301 Blvd. W., Suite 108, Bradenton, as well as at polling locations during early voting and on Election Day. For more information, go online to votemanatee. com or call the elections office at 941-741-3823. For results on island contests, check islander.org on election night. For other results, go online to votemanatee.com. — Lisa neff

Automatically elected in Holmes Beach, Anna Maria and Bradenton Beach:

islander Staff reports

It’s up to you, voters. Anna Maria Island’s electorate Titsworth Cole maro Tripp murphy Short will have local contests to decide Nov. 3, in addition to casting votes story structures. decided not to seek reelection to the two-year term in in federal and state races and on state The second initiative would permit one single- a district that includes Anna Maria Island, Longboat constitutional questions. story parking garage within city limits. Key and much of west Manatee. Here’s a recap of the ballots. Parking garages already are prohibited by the city, All county voters will find a bond question on Christenson but amending the charter would prevent removing any their ballot. The “Water Quality Protection, Fish and Holmes Beach changes without the electorate’s approval. Wildlife Habitat Preservation, and Park Ad Valorem Holmes Beach voters will elect If both questions pass, the conflicting initiatives Tax and Bonds” referendum asks voters for approval two commissioners from a pool of would cancel each other out. to levy an additional 0.15 mill ad valorem tax for 20 four candidates — incumbent ComThere were 750 registered voters in the district in years, as well as issue up to $50 million in general missioners Pat Morton and Kim Rash, November 2019, when there was no election. obligation bonds. former Commissioner Rick Hurst and There were 756 eligible voters as of Oct. 20. The money would be used to purchase land to Hurst first-timer candidate Jayne ChristenBradenton Beach voters cast ballots 7 a.m.-7 p.m. protect water quality, acquire wildlife habitat, reduce son. Tuesday, Nov. 3, at the Bradenton Beach Fire Hall, 201 flooding, conserve natural areas, provide parks and Mayor Judy Titsworth, elected to Second St. N. manage environmentally sensitive properties. the mayoral seat in 2018, is uncontested and will retain office. Anna Maria Also on the ballot … Of 2,784 registered voters in Commissioners Mark Short and Amy Tripp and In Florida Senate District 21, Republican Jim Boyd Holmes Beach, 856 people voted in Mayor Dan Murphy qualified to run for reelection faces Democrat Anthony “Tony” Eldon. This is the seat morton the November 2019 municipal elec- without opposition, guaranteeing each additional two- held by Bill Galvano, who is term-limited out. tion. year terms. In Florida House District 71, Republican incumThere were 2,823 eligible voters However, Tripp resigned in August and her seat bent Will Robinson faces Democrat Andy Mele. as of Oct. 20. will be filled by commission appointment. In Congressional District 16, Republican incumHolmes Beach voters will cast General election voters in Anna Maria still will bent Vern Buchanan faces Democrat Margaret Good. ballots 7 a.m.-7 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 3, face long ballots with other county, district, state and Republican incumbent Mike Bennett faces Demoat St. Bernard Catholic Church, 248 federal races. crat Charles Williams Jr. in a race for county supervirash S. Harbor Drive. Of 753 voters, 257 cast ballots in 2019. sor of elections. There were 836 registered voters as of Oct. 21. For state attorney, Republican incumbent Ed BrodWest Manatee Fire Rescue Anna Maria voters can cast ballots 7 a.m.-7 p.m. sky faces Democrat Betsy Young. A West Manatee Fire Rescue District commission Tuesday, Nov. 3, at Roser Memorial Community The ballot also contains judicial races and retenseat is up for grabs on Election Day. Church, 512 Pine Ave. tions, special district races, state constitutional amendVoters in the district — which includes all three ments and a runoff for the Manatee County School island cities, the village of Cortez and parts of north- Manatee County District Board in District 3 between Mary Foreman west Bradenton — will choose one of three candidates Manatee County’s District 3 voters will elect a new and incumbent Dave “Watchdog” Miner. to fill Commissioner Randy Cooper’s seat. representative in the general election. One other race of note — the presidential contest is Cooper chose not to run for reelection after 12 Kevin Van Ostenbridge is running as a Republican the ballot, with seven candidates, their running mates years on the board. and Matt Bower is campaigning without party affilia- and an option for a write-in. Bradenton residents Steven Pontious, Derrick tion. Reporters Ryan Paice, ChrisAnn Allen, Lisa Neff Warner and Robert Bennett are running. The men seek to succeed Stephen R. Jonsson, who contributed to this report. There were 22,238 registered voters in the WMFR district in 2019, when there was no commission race. 2 apply for vacant Anna There were 23,279 eligible voters as of Oct. 21. Anna Maria City Maria commission seat WMFR voters can cast ballots 7 a.m.-7 p.m. TuesOct. 29, 9 a.m., special magistrate. Anna Maria will fill the seat vacated by Amy day, Nov. 3, at their assigned precinct polling place. Anna Maria City Hall, 10005 Gulf Drive, 941Tripp’s resignation in November by commission 708-6130, cityofannamaria.com. appointment. Bradenton Beach Tripp qualified and won a new term but Commissioners Ralph Cole and Marilyn Maro Bradenton Beach resigned in August to move to Black Mountain, qualified for reelection without opposition and secured Oct. 29, 9:15 a.m., commission. North Carolina. new two-year terms. Nov. 4, 9 a.m., CIP. The commission will meet at 2 p.m. ThursHowever, Bradenton Beach voters will determine Nov. 4, 9:30 a.m., CRA. day, Nov. 12, at city hall, 10005 Gulf Drive N., to the fate of two charter amendment questions on the Nov. 4, 2 p.m., ScenicWAVES. appoint Tripp’s successor. ballot: Bradenton Beach City Hall, 107 Gulf Drive N., The window to apply for the seat opened Oct. • Prohibit multilevel parking garages within city 941-778-1005, cityofbradentonbeach.com. 1. limits? The city had received applications from Doris • Permit one single-story parking garage in the Holmes Beach “Deanie” Sebring and Sharon Wisniewski as of city? Nov. 4, 10 a.m., parks and beautification. Oct. 21. The first question is the result of two years of litiNov. 4, 6 p.m., planning commission. The application window will close Nov. 1. gation between the grass roots Keep Our Residential Holmes Beach City Hall, 5801 Marina Drive, 941Applications are accessible via the city’s webNeighborhoods political action committee and the 708-5800, holmesbeachﬂ.org. site, www.cityofannamaria.com, or in-person at city. city hall. The second question is being proposed by the Of interest Commissioners serve two years and receive a city. Nov. 4, Palma Sola Scenic Highway Committee, $4,800 annual salary. KORN’s ballot initiative would prohibit all mulBradenton public works department, 1411 Ninth St. — ryan Paice tilevel parking garages but would not regulate singleW., Bradenton.

Meetings

OCT. 28, 2020 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 5 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

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Opinion

Our

Carry on 29 years, stay calm

As you read, you are either celebrating a great win for the Tampa Bay Rays in the World Series or you’re counting the days to revenge in the next season of Major League Baseball. Wow. How about those Rays?! You’re also counting the days — like me — to an earlier sunrise and sunset starting Nov. 1, thanks to the pause in daylight saving time. And, no doubt, you are setting the stage in front of your TV for the World Series-Stanley Cup-Super Bowl-World Cup of elections, awaiting a long night of results to culminate a grueling election season. You may already know, I’m rooting for BidenHarris and the Democratic ticket. Sorry, Trumpers. In fact, the staff of The Islander — to a person — is in the Biden camp with me. But our neighbor at Paradise Bagel Cafe is all in for Trump, so we feel the nerves of a close election. Locally, we vote without partisanship on Anna Maria Island and, in Holmes Beach, we have a contested race among four candidates for two seats. As a reminder, we are supporting a win-win for the city and two candidates, long-time Commissioner Pat Morton and former Commissioner Rick Hurst. Hurst is the first candidate for local office in a number of years who offers a plan and the initiative to lead the city into the future. Along with election time, we can’t help but recall Barrack Obama’s victory in 2008 as it relates to one of the biggest-ever, longest-running stories on Anna Maria Island: The disappearance on election night of Sabine Musil-Buehler, a confession of murder and the gruesome discovery of her body in a makeshift grave on the beach. We joined the community in the shocking discovery and in mourning her loss to domestic violence. Her loss was tragic, as is the death of Sabrina “Brina” Dumdei Oct. 17 in Bradenton Beach. There were many clues to the escalating violence in her relationship with Zachary Winton but — apparently — like so many, no one heard her cries for help. We must find a way to do better. And so, to finish on a good note, we welcome you to celebrate our age. Yes. The newspaper of record on Anna Maria Island for 28 years — weekly since the first edition hit the newsstands Nov. 25, 1992 — has tuned the calendar to begin its 29th year. I offer my sincere gratitude to our readers and advertising partners for giving us a voice. Thank you for reading The Islander. — Bonner Joy, news@islander.org

OCT. 28, 2020 • Vol. 29, No. 1 Publisher and Editor Bonner Joy, news@islander.org ▼ Editorial Lisa neff, editor, lisa@islander.org Chrisann allen, chrisann@islander.org Joe Bird, editorial cartoonist Kevin Cassidy, kevin@islander.org Jack elka, jack@jackelka.com Leslie Lake, leslie@islander.org amy V.T. moriarty, amym@islander.org ryan Paice, ryan@islander.org ▼ Contributors Johann Bertram Karen riley-Love Capt. danny Stasny, fish@islander.org ▼ Advertising Director Toni Lyon, toni@islander.org ▼ Office Staff Lisa Williams, office manager info@, accounting@, classifieds@, subscriptions@islander.org ▼ Distribution urbane Bouchet Judy Loden Wasco ross roberts (All others: news@islander.org) ▼

Single copies free. Quantities of five or more: 25 cents each. ©1992-2020 • Editorial, sales and production ofﬁces: 3218 e. Bay drive, Holmes Beach fL 34217 WeBSiTe: www.islander.org PHOne 941-778-7978 toll-free fax 1-866-362-9821

Opinion

Your

Thanks to Gloria dei

Skimming online …

Web (register for free news alerts) islander.org Facebook islandernewspaper Twitter @ami_islander Instagram theislanderami Pinterest islandernewspaper E-edition For $36 a year or $99 for a lifetime, e-edition — digital — subscribers have access to the weekly e-edition and page-by-page views, all the news, photos, No money back columns, announcements and advertisements. The taxpayers of Manatee County unwittingly gave To subscribe, visit islander.org. a $2,300 charitable donation to the Suncoast Baptist Church in Palmetto. Government connections This happened when our county commissioners Anna Maria: Mayor Dan Murphy; 941-708-6130; declined to be reimbursed by the church for legal fees 10005 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria FL 34216; cityofanincurred when the church sued the county. namaria.com; ammayor@cityofannamaria.com. Once the church got its way and dropped the suit, Bradenton Beach: Mayor John Chappie; 941the county was entitled to be reimbursed legal fees. 778-1005; 107 Gulf Drive N., Bradenton Beach FL No reason was given as to why the commissioners 34217; 941-778-1005, cityofbradentonbeach.org; were so generous with our taxes. mayor@cityofbradentonbeach.com. The church certainly had the money to sue the Holmes Beach: Mayor Judy Titsworth; 941-708county. 5800; 5801 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach FL 34217; I’m sure they could afford to reimburse county holmesbeachfl.org; hbmayor@holmesbeachfl.org. taxpayers. Manatee County: County Commissioner Stephen Bob Smolenski, Holmes Beach R. Jonsson, District 3; steve.jonsson@mymanatee.org; Write! The Islander welcomes your opinion letters. 941-748-4501; 1112 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton FL Submit your opinion along with name, address and a 34205; mymanatee.org. Governor: Gov. Ron DeSantis, 850-717-9337; contact phone number to news@islander.org. 400 S. Monroe St., Tallahassee FL 32399-0001; flgov. com. Submit your Florida Senate: Sen. Bill Galvano; 941-741-3401; community news Suite 201, 1023 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton; flsenate. to news@islander.org. gov. Moonracer No Kill Animal Rescue thanks Gloria Dei Church in Holmes Beach for the collected donations for rescue pets during its Oct. 3 blessing of the pets day! We were thrilled to receive such needed blessings for our pets, especially during this uncertain time. The animals are loving the very comfortable handmade pet beds and the food is always greatly appreciated! We are so grateful for the generosity of this community, you make for many happy tails! Lisa Williams, Moonracer Pet Rescue

OCT. 28, 2020 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 7 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

From the archives

10&20 years ago

In the Oct. 25, 2000, issue:

Election Day business anna maria city clerk mary Tebbetts, center, prepares to type a document in the office at anna maria City Hall on election day, feb. 14, 1978, while Commissioner John Chambers, left and commission candidate Bob mcdonald take part in a conversation. The “Official Ballot Box” for the city election sits on a table behind Tebbetts.

To the polls Chuck Shumard, as a candidate for anna maria mayor in 1996, waves as he exits the polling place in anna maria. Shumard won the seat and served as mayor 1996-2000. islander Photos: manatee County Public Library System

election day 2020

The Islander archive is online: ufdc.uﬂ.edu..

Polling for the 2020 general election takes place Tuesday, Nov. 3. Polls are open 7 a.m.-7 p.m. For information about voting, go to votemanatee.com or call 941-741-3823

• Anna Maria public works director Anne Beck said a memo by the city clerk to the mayor asking that he restrict access to the clerk’s office after hours was upsetting because the clerk had indicated an increasing problem with the public works department in her memo. • The Florida Windstorm Underwriting Association, created in 1970 to provide wind insurance for property owners unable to obtain normal market wind insurance, said premiums on Anna Maria Island would rise as much as 76% in 2001. • Anna Maria resident Randall Graves, 53, was arrested by Manatee County sheriff’s deputies after he allegedly took a sledge hammer to a car parked on the right of way in front of his house and caused an estimated $1,000 in damages. Deputies said Graves was upset because he thought the car was parked in his yard.

In the Oct. 27, 2010, issue:

• The Islander hosted its Popcorn & Politics forum, welcoming candidates for municipal office, as well as school board, county commission and the Legislature. • A Tampa attorney filed a claim against the city of Anna Maria after the August drowning of a 71-year-old woman caught in a rip tide in the Gulf of Mexico. • Bradenton Beach commissioners adopted a resolution creating a registration requirement for boaters who anchor more than 24 hours in city waters. The vote also established a $15 annual registration fee. The registration was to be terminated after the city created a mooring field, which did not materialize. — Lisa neff

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Holmes Beach mayor presents ‘state of the city’ report By Chrisann allen islander reporter

Holmes Beach maintained its vision for 2019-20. Mayor Judy Titsworth delivered a “state of the city” address Oct. 13 during a teleconferenced city commission meeting. The statement detailed developments in the city over the past year, including new staffing, departments, the budget, lawsuits and capital improvements. Titsworth listed accomplishments, including: • A balanced budget; • A new parking plan with permitted parking for

residents and owners; • Special magistrate hearings for code compliance; • Improved water quality at Spring Lake, due to an aeration system; • Community park improvements, including a new skate park and playground, a mini-baseball field, as well as new shuffleboard, pickleball and bocce ball courts; • Stormwater improvements; • Seawall replacements; • Trolley shelter and Key Royale bridge repairs,

road striping, flashing beacon crosswalks, sidewalks, dredging and plans for improvements to the city center near the intersection of Gulf and Marina drives; • A new U.S. Americans with Disabilities Act compliant website, which includes online permitting and a fine payment option. Online readers will find the complete report on The Islander website at islander.org.

updates to the vacation rental ordinance and the rental program application process would be covered at the forum. “It looks like they adopted part of my five-point plan,” Hurst said. “It seems as though they are listening.” Hurst’s platform — advertised online and in his advertising in The Islander newspaper — for the 2020 election includes validation of stormwater and resiliency plans, a detailed review of each department’s budget, stakeholder involvement through more public events, input from residents other than regulars at city meetings and “instilling a sense of community.” However, Hurst questioned the motive behind the forum, noticed a week in advance, first by email to vacation rental owners, then by formal agenda. In October 2019, the city hosted a similar vacation rental forum, also in the morning. “It seems really strange that after all this time that the vacation rental program has been in effect, they are just doing this now, right before the election, at 9 a.m. on a Wednesday, with barely a week’s notice,” Hurst said. “I’m all for a meeting, but it should be done right, when more people can make it to the table.”

It might not be visible, but work is underway at the new Anna Maria City Pier. Former Anna Maria Commissioner Brian Seymour of GSM Partners LLC — the group of Pine Avenue businesses leasing the grill and bait shop at the T-end of the new pier, 100 N. Bay Blvd. — told The Islander Oct. 21 that the group is in the process of hiring a contractor for the buildout. Seymour also said permitting with the city is planned to start by Oct. 23. City commissioners unanimously voted Sept. 24 to approve a lease with the trio of Pine Avenue business owners — Seymour, owner of the Pine Avenue General Store; Victor Mattay, owner of Dips Ice Cream; and Nicholas Graham of Pine Avenue Bait and Tackle, all in the Historic Green Village — for the grill and bait shop. Previously, Seymour said GSM plans to open the grill and bait shop by Nov. 20. “All eyes are on Brian Seymour and his team, anxiously awaiting his grand opening,” Mayor Dan Murphy wrote The Islander Oct. 22. “Soon we will be discussing more plans for the pier, but it is premature at this point.”

HB candidate finds rental forum coincidental By Chrisann allen islander reporter

Holmes Beach commission candidate Rick Hurst is wondering if it’s a coincidence. Hurst — elected to the city commissioner in 2017 and failing to be reelected in 2019 — said Oct. 21 that he took note of a flyer sent by the city to “vacation rental stakeholders” announcing an open forum at 9 a.m. Hurst Wednesday, Oct. 28, in the gazebo at city field, across from city hall at 5801 Marina Drive. “We will review the vacation rental ordinance, enforcement policies and procedures and ways we can continue working together to have a strong partnership between the vacation rental community and the city,” the emailed notice stated. An agenda for the meeting — posted Oct. 22 to the Holmes Beach Police Department Facebook page titled the event a “city of Holmes Beach code compliance stakeholder workshop.” The forum was not posted on the city website. The agenda stated that parking, noise, an introducTo access the meeting by Zoom, call city hall at tion of the code compliance team, proper trash can 941-708-5800. placement, rental advertising and monitoring software,

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BB approves engineering payment for utility project Bradenton Beach is moving forward with statefunded plans to bury utilities along Gulf Drive. City commissioners unanimously voted Oct. 22 to bury utilities at the south end of the city and approve a $7,813 deposit for engineering to Florida Power & Light for the underground infrastructure. The state approved a $2 million appropriation for the project, which will protect utilities from inclement weather and improve aesthetics. However, the city won’t be able to begin a similar project on the north end as initially intended. Mark Porter, senior utility coordinator for CDM Smith, told commissioners they wouldn’t be able to bury utilities at the city’s north end before the June 30, 2021, deadline due to the number of residential streets in the area. Instead, the city could bury utility lines on the east side of Gulf Drive, from the Longboat Pass Bridge at the far south end of the city northward to Fifth Street South. City attorney Ricinda Perry, appointed as project coordinator, said utilities to the west of Gulf Drive along that stretch are on county property. “We didn’t see the need to expend funds on county property,” Perry said. Porter said they also were exploring additional work from Third Street South northward to the S-curve around 22nd Street North. A gap between Third and Fifth streets south will be addressed at a later date. Perry said such work may exceed the state appropriation, but the city redevelopment agency could fund the utility work within its district. “We have to get the biggest bang for our buck,” Mayor John Chappie said. “Unfortunately, it appears that this is our only real option.” There was no public comment. — ryan Paice

AM seeks to permanently eliminate some street parking By ryan Paice islander reporter

The novel coronavirus may result in permanent changes to parking in Anna Maria. City commissioners held a first reading Oct. 22 for an ordinance on parking changes implemented during the pandemic, including prohibitions. Commissioner Joe Muscatello was absent with excuse and Commissioner Amy Tripp vacated her seat in August. Earlier this year, Holmes Beach temporarily closed street parking in an attempt to discourage people from crowding its beaches under a state safer-at-home order to prevent the spread of the virus. Anna Maria Mayor Dan Murphy said the neighboring city’s parking limitations forced a wave of people to seek beach parking in Anna Maria. The city subsequently implemented several prohibited parking areas along sections of its roads, including: Pine Avenue, North Bay Boulevard, Poinsettia Road, Alamanda Road, Gulf Drive, North Shore Drive, South Bay Boulevard, Spring Avenue, Palm, Willow, Mangrove, Oak and Park avenues and Seagrape Lane. Details for the prohibited parking areas can be found at the city’s website, cityofannamaria.com.

Murphy said the ordinance would codify the recent parking changes, which proved to be effective in protecting pedestrians, preserving drainage infrastructure and controlling traffic. He noted that the commission spent a lot of time reviewing the parking code 15 years ago, but the city has undergone many changes since then. “I’m all for the changes,” Commissioner Mark Short said. There was no public comment. The city’s planning and zoning board will review the ordinance at a public hearing at 2 p.m. Monday, Nov. 9, at city hall, 10005 Gulf Drive N. No motion was needed to proceed with a final reading by the commission, which is set for 2 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 12, at city hall. In other business, commissioners approved a consent agenda that included: • A special event permit for a wedding with a limit of 30 people and requiring social distancing; • Payment to the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office of $1,013,623.64 — a 0.6% increase over last year’s rate for law enforcement through Sept. 30, 2021; • Renewal of the Anna Maria Island Historical Society lease for $1 per year through Oct. 22, 2025.

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The Islander Calendar ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT ONGOING ON AMI

get listed in The islander calendar. email calendar@islander.org.

Dec. 12, Christmas on Bridge Street, Bradenton Beach. TENProject King Tides Photo Contest, Anna Maria Island and beyond. TATIVE Information: sarasotabay.org, 941-955-8085.

COMMUNITY

AHEAD OFF AMI ONGOING ON AMI Through October, Pat Oâ€™Neillâ€™s â€œThe Beauty of Acrylicsâ€? exhibit, Nov. 6-15, Sarasota Bay Estuary Program seagrass survey, Island Gallery West, 5368 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: Thursdays, 5-8 p.m., Thursdays in Paradise art, shopping and Sarasota Bay. 941-778-6648. entertainment, Bridge Street, Bradenton Beach. Information: 941In November, Artistsâ€™ Guild Gallery window exhibit, 5414 Marina 896-2222. GOOD TO KNOW Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6694. Tuesdays into May, Anna Maria Farmers Market, City Pier Park, SAVE THE DATES In November, Janet Flickingerâ€™s â€œEveryday Lifeâ€? drawings, 103 N. Bay Blvd., Anna Maria. Island Gallery West, 5368 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: Saturday, Oct. 31, Halloween. AHEAD OFF AMI 941-778-6648. Sunday, Nov. 1, daylight saving time ends. Tuesday, Nov. 3, general election. Nov. 11, Rotary Club of Longboat Key Veterans Day ceremony, ONGOING OFF AMI Wednesday, Nov. 11, Veterans Day. Longboat Key. â€˘ Through Nov. 29, Marie Selby Botanical Gardens 45th anniThursday, Nov. 26, Thanksgiving. RECREATIONAL versary orchid show, â€œWomen Breaking the Glasshouse Ceiling,â€? Friday, Dec. 25, Christmas. 1534 Mound St., Sarasota. Fee applies. Information: 941-366Thursday, Dec. 31, New Yearâ€™s Eve. ONGOING ON AMI 5731. Send calendar listings to calendar@islander.org. Deadline is â€˘ Through Oct. 31, submit photos to the Sarasota Bay Estuary Wednesday prior to publication date. AHEAD OFF AMI Dec. 4-6, Bradenton Blues Fest, Bradenton. AHEAD VIRTUAL Dec. 18, Dec. 20, Island Playersâ€™ adaptation of â€œA Christmas Carol.â€?

FAMILY AHEAD ON AMI Nov. 14, Starlight Movie Night, Holmes Beach. ONGOING OFF AMI Through Jan. 3, 2021, â€œWaterâ€™s Extreme Journeyâ€? exhibit, the Bishop Museum of Science and Nature, 201 10th St. W., Bradenton. Fee applies. Information: 941-746-4131, bishopscience.org. ONGOING VIRTUAL Through October, Manatee Libraries celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month. Information: mymanatee.org/library. AHEAD ON AMI TIVE

Dec. 4, holiday walk and tree-lighting, Holmes Beach. TENTADec. 11, holiday walk, Anna Maria. TENTATIVE

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IGW celebrates â€˜everyday Lifeâ€™

Artist Janet Flickinger documents people in their everyday pursuits of life. Island Gallery West celebrates Flickingerâ€™s work in November, as sheâ€™s the featured artist of the month. Flickingerâ€™s style can be characterized as social or photorealism. She works primarily in pencil. At 5 p.m. Friday, Nov. 6, IGW will host Flickinger in a virtual interview â€œTune in to hear about her inspiration, her drawings and for a preview of this spectacular exhibit,â€? a Work by Janet flickinger will be featured at island news release stated. gallery West in november. islander Courtesy Photo Search for @islandgallerywest on Facebook. The gallery opens 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesday-Sunday at 5368 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. Masks are required. Annie Silver cancels season For more information, call IGW at 941-778There are more cancellations of island tradi6648. tions as the coronavirus pandemic continues. The Annie Silver Community Center will not Guild gallery invites shoppers hold bingo games or community dinners in 2021. The Artistsâ€™ Guild of Anna Maria Island invited â€œThe center is canceling their 2021 season people to go window shopping in November. of activities,â€? read a news announcement Oct. The AGAMI Guild Gallery is open, having closed 20 from the center, 103 23rd St. N., Bradenton its gallery in March due to the spread of the new corBeach. onavirus, shifted to virtual programming and then In addition, the Senior Adventures group that reopened in late May. often met at the community center during the winThe gallery is now open 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Tuesday ter-spring season has canceled its activities and and Saturday and 11 a.m.-6:30 p.m. Wednesday-Friadventures. day. â€œThe AS Center will review conditions in the The gallery is at 5414 Marina Drive, Holmes fall of 2021,â€? the announcement stated. We thank Beach. everyone for their continued support. In the fall of For more information, call the gallery at 941-7782021, we invite new members and volunteers to 6694. join us.â€? For more information, call Linda Yarger at 941-778-3580.

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Islander collecting wishes

The Islander is collecting wishes from community organizations for its Wish Book. Each fall, the newspaper collects a list of needs from nonprofits for publication at Thanksgiving. Nonprofit representatives can submit wish lists to Lisa Neff at lisa@islander.org. Please, include any special requests due to the coronavirus pandemic. For more information, call the newspaper office at 941-778-7978.

Island happenings

OCT. 28, 2020 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 11 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Movie Night includes outdoor viewing in Holmes Beach

Starlight Movie Night will bring the big screen and some big names in conservation to Holmes Beach city field Nov. 14. The Florida Cultural Group Inc. is producing the Starlight Movie Night, which will feature the screening of four films at four outdoor locations Saturday, Nov. 14, including “Dolphin Tale” in Holmes Beach. The Bradenton Area Arts & Culture Department is sponsoring the movie night in concert with community partners. Attendees must reserve a free viewing spot at the location of their choice to ensure a safe and socially distant movie night under the stars. Locations and selected movies include: • Holmes Beach field, 5800-5900 block of Marina Drive: “Dolphin Tale.” The movie is inspired by the story of the rescue and rehabilitation of a dolphin, Winter, at the Clearwater Marine Aquarium. The evening is a “double feature” of sorts, as the Center of Anna Maria Island is involved with bringing in representatives from the Clearwater Marine Aquarium Research Institute as part of the nonprofit’s Go Green 2 Speaker Series. At 5 p.m., the center and aquarium staff will provide treats and display one of Winter’s prosthetic tails. At 5: 30 p.m., there will be remarks by Jim McDaniel representing the center and Vic Caserta of Holmes Beach on behalf of the aquarium. At 5:40 p.m. the center will show a Zoom interview with Philippe Cousteau, who helped launch the

‘Coming soon to a theater near you’ “dolphin Tale” will be screened at Holmes Beach Community Park in the 5800-5900 block of marina drive Saturday, nov. 14. The film was inspired by the true story of Winter, a bottlenose dolphin rescued in december 2005 off the florida coast and taken in by the Clearwater marine aquarium. islander Courtesy Photo

Sunny market Vendors offer produce, sauces, jams and fun at the anna maria farmers market Oct. 13 in booths circling the shade sails at City Pier Park in anna maria. The market continues on Tuesdays into may 2021. islander Photo: ryan Paice

nonprofit’s green initiative a year ago. Anna Maria Elementary fourth-grader Addy DuToit, who launched KidsSaveEarth.com after attending Cousteau’s lecture, will conduct the interview. Next, Cousteau will introduce aquarium speakers, including scientific adviser Dr. Buddy Powell, who worked with Jacques Cousteau, and associate research scientist, Dr. Anmari Alvarez Alemán. The speakers will entertain questions until about 7 p.m. Following a break, the movie will screen at 7:30 p.m. Masks are required when people are not in their viewing section. And people are encouraged to bring chairs, blankets and coolers. • Manatee Performing Arts Center, 502 Third Ave. W., Bradenton: “Swiss Family Robinson.” People can watch the film from their vehicles. Coolers are allowed and the Manatee Performing Arts Center will provide popcorn. • Premier Sports Campus, 5895 Post Blvd., Lakewood Ranch: “Pelé: Birth of a Legend.” People are encouraged to bring chairs and blankets. Concessions will be available but guests can bring coolers. • Palmetto on the Manatee River: “Peanut Butter Falcon.” People can view the PG-13 film from boats — a big screen will be placed on the west side of the Palmetto Pier and the north side of the Manatee River. There are no reservations at this location but boats must be anchored 10 feet apart to maintain social distancing. “The Bradenton Area Arts & Culture Division is thrilled to be part of this event that is the first of its kind in our area and to provide a safe and memorable night out for residents and their families,” said Aimee Blenker, arts and cultural marketing executive for the Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau. She added, “This is a great example of showcasing our unique arts and culture throughout our beautiful community.” For more information or reservations, go online to www.tickets.flculturalgroup.org.

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Island cities set to transition to in-person quorums By ryan Paice islander reporter

Local officials won’t be able to keep phoning it in when November begins. But who knows if that is a good thing? Starting Nov. 1, Gov. Ron DeSantis’ allowance for remote gatherings will expire and island cities must resume public meetings with majority voting quorums in person. DeSantis issued an order March 19, at the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, suspending requirements for local governments to meet in person and allowing officials to attend meetings via teleconference. DeSantis extended the order numerous times but it is set to expire Oct. 31. Local governments have taken advantage of the allowance to different degrees. Holmes Beach hasn’t held an in-person commission meeting in months, choosing instead to meet virtually and keeping city hall closed to the public. Bradenton Beach has achieved a few in-person quorums throughout the pandemic, but commissioners have often remotely attended. The Oct. 22 commission

Chamber resets biz mixer

A forecast for inclement weather prompted the Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce to postpone a monthly business card exchange event. The sold-out event scheduled for Oct. 22 at the Anna Maria Island Historical Society Museum, 420 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, was pushed to 5-7 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 29. For more information, call the chamber at 941778-1541.

The Moose cleans up

meeting was the first since March that the entire commission met in person at city hall. Anna Maria has maintained in-person quorums for most meetings since the pandemic began, with the occasional commissioner in remote attendance. All three cities have provided remote public access to their meetings and island officials have expressed mixed feelings toward required in-person meetings. Bradenton Beach Commissioner Jan Vosburgh said Oct. 22 that she had no problems resuming in-person quorums. “I don’t like to go on Zoom,” Vosburgh said. “Half the time you can’t hear or there’s a technical problem or something. I’d rather be in city hall, where you feel like you can really get into a meeting.” Vosburgh said she was satisfied with the efforts to sanitize city hall, as well as the plexiglass dividers installed between the seats on the dais. Holmes Beach Mayor Judy Titsworth wrote in an Oct. 21 email to The Islander that in-person quorums should not be required before a vaccine is released. “People still want to attend Zoom meetings and I don’t blame them,” Titsworth wrote. “Many have

underlying health issues and do not want to expose themselves to harm.” Titsworth wrote that while commissioners must meet in person, the city may continue offering remote public access to its meetings. “We will either live-stream only or continue Zoom,” she said. “We have IT working on our options.” Anna Maria also is weighing options. During an Oct. 22 meeting, Mayor Dan Murphy asked commissioners to consider three options: • Continue offering remote public access and comments at meetings via teleconference; • Continue offering remote public access to meetings with teleconferencing, but only taking public comment from people attending meetings in person; • Eliminate the use of teleconferencing access. Murphy said they would discuss the issue at 2 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 12, at city hall, 10005 Gulf Drive N. Bradenton Beach clerk Terri Sanclemente did not respond to an Oct. 23 email on the subject. Bradenton Beach Mayor John Chappie did not respond with comments to an Oct. 21 email and Oct. 22 call from The Islander.

Biz news: Bistro celebrates sunset, reopening diners on the shore Oct. 22 at the Beach Bistro in Holmes Beach pause to appreciate sunset. Owner Sean murphy reopened the bistro for the first time since march, when state safer-at-home orders went into effect due to the novel coronavirus. during the closure, murphy had the HVaC system retrofitted to include an air sanitizer. The renourishment barge is visible on the horizon. islander Photo: amy V.T. moriarty

Chamber in Passport talks

about 978 pounds of trash was collected Oct. 17 in Bradenton Beach by the Women of the moose and a league of volunteers. Larry and dana ulfig, front, bring their trash collection to Skip St. John to be weighed Oct. 17. Volunteers found full containers of alcohol, a martini glass, a dead skimmer and a small figurine of Snow White. islander Courtesy Photo

Bob Slicker, right, of Swordfish grill in Cortez, alongside dan alderson of Tyler’s ice Cream, addresses anna maria island Chamber of Commerce members at floridays restaurant on Perico island Oct. 15 about a new chamber initiative that mimics a “Passport” program he organized in Cortez. The chamber’s next business card exchange will be 5-7 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 29, at the anna maria island Historical Society museum. islander Photo: Toni Lyon

#AMItogether #AMItogether #AMItogether #AMItogether #AMItogether #AMItogether #AMItogether #AMItogether

OCT. 28, 2020 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 13 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

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The Islander’s annual anniversary trivia quiz The Islander marks an anniversary — this issue, Vol. 29, No. 1, begins a new year. And we’re marking the anniversary with a quiz about the earliest days of the newspaper. What was going on in November 1992? Democrat Bill Clinton defeated Republican George H.W. Bush in a race for the White House. Monica Seles defeated Martina Navratilova in the

WTA Tour Championship. Moviegoers went to the theater to see “Malcolm X,” “Aladdin” and “Bram Stoker’s Dracula.” Whitney Houston released the single “I Will Always Love You,” written years earlier by Dolly Parton. “The Contest,” a racy, controversial — but Emmywinning — episode of “Seinfeld” aired on NBC.

1. Page one of the ﬁrst issue contained a story about allegations of election-related shenanigans in Anna Maria in violation of state law. Florida’s open government statute is known as: A. Sunshine Law. B. Government-in-the-Daylight Law C. Transparency Law. 2. In a letter to the editor in the first issue, Holmes Beach Mayor Pat Geyer wrote, “It will be nice to have a real newspaper on Anna Maria Island.” True or false?

None of the above was covered in The Islander because the newspaper always has been dedicated to and focused on Anna Maria Island. The paper’s slogan then was “The Free Voice of Anna Maria Island” but it could have been, “What happens on Anna Maria Island gets reported in The Islander.” Test your memory in our anniversary quiz. 7. The ﬁrst paper announced the Anna Maria Island Art League was preparing to host a Christmas carnival in Holmes Beach. True or false?

Top of the fold

3. An ad for Head Quarters salon described The front page of the first issue, dated nov. 25, what as “the look that lasts”? 1992. The edition in hand is Vol. 29, issue 1. A. “Full, teased and fringed.” islander file Photo B. “Feathered, frosted and full.” C. “Bouncy, springy, resilient curls.” 5. In an ad in 1992, the Beach Bistro in Holmes Beach was promoting its breakfast service? 4. The ﬁrst edition contained a story about an True or false? island meeting that drew a standing-room only crowd. What was the meeting issue? 6. The ﬁrst “Streetlife” included police reports A. A proposed property tax increase in Bradenton of larceny, with items stolen from two Mercedes. Beach. What was taken? B. A proposal to build a high fixed-span bridge on A. Hood ornaments. Manatee Avenue. B. Beach gear. C. A plan for a pier in the Gulf in Holmes Beach. C. Car phones.

8. The earliest issues included a recipe column from Dee Becker called “What’s Cookin’ in Dee’s Kitchen.” The ingredients for the “Better than Sex Cake” included German chocolate cake mix, sweetened condensed milk, caramel, Cool Whip and… A. Three 3 Musketeers bars B. Two Heath bars C. Cup of strawberries 9. A report of property sales included a multifamily home in Bradenton Beach that sold for $118,000. True or false? 10. The ﬁrst issue’s masthead included a quote: “Great spirits have always found opposition from mediocrities.” Who said that? A. Ernie Cagnina B. Albert Einstein C. Birdie Tebbetts

For the answers to the quiz, turn to page 26.

Mask up for Halloween don’t “boo” Halloween. Cut out our mask, color it up and show it off. We invite readers to get in costume and makeup or show off their decor for Halloween and share their photos with The islander via social media — #amiHalloween and tag us: @islandernewspaper on facebook, @ami_ islander on Twitter and @theislanderami on instagram. for those without costumes, we offer this easy-touse mask: Just clip, color and attach to a cotton medical mask or Popsicle stick or ad elastic string.

OCT. 28, 2020 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 15 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

New AMe PTO officers tackle operational changes

Being restricted to digital-only meetings and events has prompted the new officers on the Anna Maria Elementary Parent Teacher Organization board to make operational changes. New board members were sworn in Oct. 16 by Anna Maria Elementary principal Jackie Featherston. One change to operations is the creation of a social media/events adviser. Former vice president Janae Rudacille was

AmE NEWS

2020-21 school calendar fair.

• Monday, Nov. 2-Sunday, Nov. 15, book

• Tuesday, Nov. 3, picture day. • Thursday, Nov. 5, 4 p.m., PTO member meeting, via Zoom. • Wednesday, Nov. 11, Veterans Day, no school. • Nov. 23-27, Thanksgiving break. Anna Maria Elementary is at 4700 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. For more information, call the school at 941708-5525.

By Amy V.T. Moriarty, amym@islander.org

appointed to the post, PTO president Nicole Plummer wrote Oct. 19 in an email to The Islander. Rudacille “offered her advice to the board regarding social media and if we have future events,” Plummer said. “She is a great asset to the PTO.” Rudacille will co-manage the PTO’s social media with Plummer. The board also amended the bylaws, reducing the required number of meetings from six to three — one in each of the remaining academic quarters. The change is “for this academic year due to the COVID-19 pandemic restrictions,” according to the meeting minutes. Now PTO members are brainstorming to replace popular but unsafe fundraisers and other programs because of pandemic restrictions barring volunteers and outside vendors from campus, said Plummer. In the meantime, Plummer said the PTO is promoting the Gumball Guess at Small Town Creamery in the Islander Shopping Center at 5404 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. The event is unaffiliated with the PTO, but Plummer said the school group wants to support the shop “that has supported us so many times in the past. It looks like a lot of fun and we wanted to get the word out to our students.” The Gumball Guess is a contest in which youth

Laura, Rick and Tori

★

Validate our stormwater/resiliency plans.

★

Challenge department budgets.

We currently have all of our critical stormwater projects in the hands of a single local engineering ﬁrm. The increased ﬂooding we are experiencing causes concern about the effectiveness of our plan. In order to eliminate the risk of wasted time and money, I suggest we conduct an expert review to ensure we have the best possible stormwater mitigation solutions.

Our city’s operating expenses are too high and continue to rise. This causes our taxes to rise and prevents us from being able to afford critical infrastructure projects. The only way we can reduce these expenses is through efﬁciency gains and right-sizing. I suggest a deep review of each department’s budget along with a review of all processes/policies and eliminate those that are out-dated, inefﬁcient, provide little value/cost ratio and waste our tax dollars.

Involve stakeholders, leverage technology.

This endless pursuit of more laws, more ﬁnes, more signs, more code enforcement is not working well. I propose we ﬁnd better ways to manage our visitors based on realistic expectations and focused on awareness and education designed to help our visitors understand how to be part of our community.

★

Reach out for input from residents.

ages 16 and younger can guess how many gumballs are in the creamery’s counter for a prize. No purchase is required to enter the guessing game. For more information, go to the PTO website at www.amepto.org or Facebook page, www.facebook. com/amepto. Anna Maria Elementary is at 4700 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach.

Elect ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ Rick Hurst for Holmes Beach Commissioner

My Roadmap to a Stronger Future for Holmes Beach

★

Kids can play to win a prize in a gumball guess contest at Small Town Creamery in the island Shopping Center in Holmes Beach. islander Photo: amy V.T. moriarty

Too often, policy is made that negatively impacts many stakeholders. In most cases those stakeholders are non-resident property owners and/or island visitors; however, sometimes it includes residents that are not part of the inﬂuential “inner circle.” When cities like Holmes Beach make policies that negatively

seat, mmission will o c r: h c te a o e v B es Beach 0% certain a Holmes Dear Holm my campaign for t plan that I am 10 et science. It is ck in During le five-po n is not ro ed a simp the future. My pla p lo e v e d I I have tronger in port that t to p u s f o t n make us s on sense. and I wan the amou m pure com een astonished by It’s been amazing n that this io I have b so many of you. r recognit rt and you starving for. from o d p e p u iv s e c e re is e for both th our” city mon sens thank you nse plan is what “ be that these com es of a small l se tiv common llenge we face wil e goals and objec ies. The status c th li h o it p w ’s The cha t y r” cit conflic u o “ in e re c ge this is a n n e s a solution people who influ e can ch w y a w ly f number o r for them. The on ality by e tt . e s b s become re ht the e c is it ro lp p e quo n h o , e ti e elec , pleas ise to fig through th gree with my plan If elected, I prom informed and If you a eep you ur vote. e with yo mon sense plan, k . m g in rt o com ture supp , push the y in the fu status quo stronger communit make us a ou, Thank y t Rick Hurs impact too many stakeholders, we run the risk of providing incentive for state officials to eliminate our right to “home rule” and/or not support us when we request funding for our infrastructure projects. I suggest when making policy, city officials consider the impacts on all stakeholders in order to create a fair and proper balance and not give state officials reason to take away home rule.

★

Instill a sense of community.

Holmes Beach is ﬁlled with wonderful people; however, no attempt is made to create a sense of community. Many towns similar to ours have a government that facilitates community gatherings. My solution would be, when Covid-19 is behind us, city ofﬁcials encourage and facilitate community gatherings and help us have a little fun together.

Vote for me for a stronger future for Holmes Beach — Rick Hurst

For more info or to discuss the city’s future, contact Rick Hurst at 248-765-0785 or electrickhurst@gmail.com. Political advertisement paid and approved by Rick Hurst for Holmes Beach Commissioner.

Page 16 THE ISLANDER | islander.org OCT. 28, 2020 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

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Gathering

maggie Carter stacks shoeboxes wrapped in holiday patterns in 2019 at roser memorial Community Church, 512 Pine ave., anna maria. islander Courtesy Photo

Operation Christmas Child begins at roser Church

Roser Memorial Community Church has enlisted in Operation Christmas Child, a campaign to deliver gifts to children around the world. Samaritan’s Purse conducted the campaign with the support of churches such as Roser, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Supporters fill empty shoeboxes with toys and other gifts. Last year, in Roser’s push, 136 shoeboxes were filled. This year, Roser is offering several ways for people to help: • Buy a $20-$30 box online at roserchurch.com. • Mail a $20 or $30 check, payable to Roser Church with Operation Christmas Child, noted to P.O. Box 247, Anna Maria, FL 34216. • Fill a shoebox — empty ones will be available at the church — and drop the filled box in a bin in front of the church sanctuary. • Shop and drop items for packaging at the sanctuary. Roser reminded supporters: “Your shoebox may be the only gift the child ever receives. So, plan to pack quality items that will last.” Gifts should include a quality “wow” toy, other toys, hygiene items and school supplies. The deadline to contribute is Sunday, Nov. 15. For more information, email info@roserchurch. com or call 941-778-0414.

dispensation for Mass continued at St. B

The Diocese of Venice announced the extension of a dispensation for Sunday Mass to Nov. 27. The dispensation was issued in March, as the area was responding to the spread of the novel coronavirus and churches were closing. The dispensation was continued three times — to Sept. 1, then Nov. 1 and now Nov. 27. Churches have reopened and resumed in-person worship under restrictions but, with the dispensation extended, worshippers are not obligated to attend Sunday Mass. A statement from the diocese, which includes St. Bernard Catholic Church, 248 S. Harbor Drive, Holmes Beach, said masks are required and “respect for distancing is needed.” For more information, go online to stbernardcc. org or call the church office at 941-778-4769.

Tidings

REGULAR WORSHIP

Monday-Friday 8:30 a.m. — St. Bernard Catholic Church, 248 S. Harbor Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-4769. Thursdays 9:30 a.m. — Church of the Annunciation, 4408 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-1638. Saturdays 4 p.m. — St. Bernard Catholic Church. Sundays 8:30 a.m. — St. Bernard Catholic Church. 8:30 a.m. — Roser Memorial Community Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Information: 941-778-0414. 9:30 a.m. — CrossPointe Fellowship, 8605 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-0719. 9:30 a.m. — Episcopal Church of the Annunciation. 10 a.m. — Roser Church. 10:30 a.m. — St. Bernard. 10:30 a.m. — CrossPointe Fellowship. ONLINE WORSHIP

GoodDeeds

Assistance sought from AMI

• The Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce collects food donations for a Manatee County Food Drive through October. Information: 941-778-1541. • Moonracer Animal Rescue seeks volunteers to offer foster and forever homes for rescued animals. Information: 941-345-2441. • The Roser Food Bank seeks donations. Roser Memorial Community Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, administers the pantry, supported by All Island Denominations. Information: 941-778-0414.

Monday, November 2, 2020 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM

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EVENTS Wednesdays 6:15 p.m. — Wednesday supper, CrossPointe Fellowship, 8605 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-0719. 6:45 p.m. — Wednesday Night Blast, CrossPointe. Thursdays 9:30 a.m. — Women’s fellowship class, CrossPointe Fellowship, Holmes Beach. Saturdays 9 a.m.-noon, Lord’s Warehouse thrift store, Longboat Island Chapel, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key. Information: 941383-6491. Tuesdays 10:30 a.m. — Book discussion group, Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, Zoom-based. Information: gdlami18@gmail.com. SAVE THE DATES

Christ Church of Longboat Key, christchurchlbk.org. CrossPointe Fellowship, Facebook.

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Catholic Diocese of Venice, Spectrum cable TV. Episcopal Church of the Annunciation, Facebook. Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, Facebook. Harvey Memorial Community Church, Facebook. Longboat Island Chapel, longboatislandchapel.org. Roser Church, roserchurch.com.

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SUNDAY WORSHIP 8:30 AM and 10:00 AM

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Nov. 1, All Saints Day. Nov. 2, All Souls Day.

• Rotary Club of Longboat Key seeks donations to support military veterans and programs for veterans. Information: 703-593-4447.

Assistance offered to AMI

• The Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce offers free face masks. Information:941-778-1541. • Meals on Wheels Plus of Manatee offers fresh produce at select locations. Information: 941-7474655. • The Roser Food Bank welcomes applicants who live and/or work on Anna Maria Island for food assistance, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Information: 941-778-0414. • All Island Denominations offers monetary help, including relief for unemployed people. For information or to apply, call 941-725-2433. Send listings to calendar@islander.org.

At your service

Obituaries are offered as a community service to residents and families of residents. Submit to news@ islander.org.

Growing in Jesus’ Name

Sunday Service 10:00 AM

Please Register to Attend • Masks Required

In the SANCTUARY and ONLINE Go to www.RoserChurch.com Click WORSHIP-SIGNUP , WATCH LIVE or WATCH LATER Text ROSER to 22828 to receive the weekly eBulletin. The CHAPEL is open during office hours for prayer & meditation.

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OCT. 28, 2020 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 19 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

BBPd chief to achieve goals for retirement in 2021 By ryan Paice islander reporter

“It was just time,” Bradenton Beach Police Chief Sam Speciale told The Islander Oct. 22. Speciale, 63, was born and raised in Chicago. He moved to Bradenton Beach in 1982 after his parents relocated to the city and inspired him to do the same. Speciale moved into a rental unit his parents owned and invested in a local restaurant chain. He joined the Bradenton Beach Police Depart-

Obituaries

Michael John Northfield 28.

Michael John Northfield, 81, of Cortez, died Sept.

He was born Sept. 29, 1938, in London, England, and moved to Canada with his wife, Caroline Northfield, in 1960, where they had four children. He and his wife spent most of their time in Florida since his retirement from Ontario Hydro in the late 1980s. He was a trained chemist and worked in the nuclear industry in the northfield United Kingdom and enjoyed a successful career at Ontario Hydro, running the environmental division before retirement. Mr. Northfield had a varied career outside of that, working in Florida as a real estate agent and investor, a property manager in addition to a slew of volunteer activities, including a stint as the president of a local Rotary Club chapter and involvement in the Florida Institute for Saltwater Heritage in Cortez. The FISH board of directors will hold a celebration of life outdoors at Fishermens’ Hall, 4511 124th St. W., Cortez, 2-4 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 1. Anyone who knew Mr. Northfield, who was a Rotarian on Anna Maria Island and those who worked with Island Vacation Properties is welcome to attend. Due to the coronavirus pandemic, mask wearing is requested and those planning to attend are asked to RSVP to Jane von Hahmann at 941-794-0043.

ment as a reserve officer in 1986 after one of his restaurants was burglarized. “I always wanted to be a cop up north,” Speciale said. “I talked to the sergeant at the time from Bradenton Beach and he said, ‘Well, I’ll sponSpeciale sor you if you want to pay for it.… “So I’ve been here ever since.” He climbed the ranks to chief in 1998 when he was sworn to serve the city by then-Mayor Dick Connick and rose to become the longest-serving police administrator in Manatee County. Speciale tendered his notice to Mayor John Chappie Oct. 6, announcing his intent to retire Oct.

david ‘dave’ Steger

David “Dave” Steger, formerly of Bradenton Beach, died Oct. 20 in Myakka City. He was born to Fred and Minnie and grew up in Bradenton Beach. In 1968, at 13, he traveled with his mom, dad and sister to Florida from Perrysburg, Ohio. He loved boating and shark fishing Steger with his buddies. At 17, he met an island girl and the love of his life, Michele Messina. They married five years later and lived in Bradenton Beach for 20 years. He and his father built Tradewinds Apartments — later Tradewinds Beach Resort — in Bradenton Beach. Mr. Steger acquired many long-lasting friendships and hosted many fun-filled poker games. Mr. Steger is survived by his wife of 43 years, Michele; son Garrett; daughter Shauna; grandsons Bryce and Landon; step-granddaughter Kaylie; and nieces and nephews. $2 @ The Islander, 3218 E. Bay Drive, Holmes Beach.

About obituaries

Obituaries are offered as a community service to residents and families of residents, both past and present, as well as to those people with ties to the island. You may submit a standard obituary and photo to news@ islander.org. Obituaries are free. Paid obituaries can be discussed with advertising consultant Toni Lyon at 941-7787978.

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6, 2021, exactly 35 years to the day after joining the department. Speciale said he originally planned to wait two more years to retire so his 401(k) could reach a threshold, but an inheritance from his father, who died recently, helped him reach that amount earlier than planned. “I still love coming in here every day. I love everybody that lives here and works here. I always have and always will,” Speciale said. “It’s just that it’s time to give it to the young guys.” “Now it’s my turn to relax a little bit and not worry about having to get up and put a gunbelt on,” he added. Speciale said his proudest accomplishments during his tenure as chief were focusing on community relations and redoing the BBPD building. “I think that was the biggest accomplishment, as far as the structural side of the department,” Speciale said. “I also think I tried to make this department a more community-oriented department.” “We were before, but I wanted to make sure to carry on everything,” he added. “One of the main things about this department that I really cared about was getting along with everyone.” After retiring, Speciale plans to split time between Bradenton Beach and a second home in Georgia. “I spent just about my entire adult life here,” Speciale said. “I’m planning on becoming one of those infamous snowbirds and just go back and forth between here and Georgia.” Speciale said he hoped Lt. John Cosby would be his successor, but the decision lies with the city commission. “I hope that’s their plan. John deserves it,” he said. “We’ve worked together forever. It’s one of those things where you basically know what the other person is thinking, so I’m just hoping the city goes that way.” Chappie did not respond to an Oct. 22 call from The Islander.

Page 20 THE ISLANDER | islander.org OCT. 28, 2020 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

LBK resident arrested after alleged hit-and-run By ryan Paice islander reporter

Bradenton Beach police officers filed a capias request Oct. 18 seeking misdemeanor charges against Longboat Key resident Robert Goodman for allegedly obstructing justice by resisting an officer and failing to aid a victim after committing a hit-and-run. An officer arrived in the 2200 block of Gulf Drive in response to a reported hit-and-run and found a crowd of people assisting a man screaming in pain due to injuries sustained when he was hit by a vehicle. The man was rushed to Blake Medical Center in Bradenton for treatment of multiple lacerations and broken bones. At the scene, several witnesses with videos of the incident reported that the victim was riding his bicycle in the bike lane when a motorist — later identified as Goodman — swerved his vehicle into the lane and hit

Streetlife

Staff reports

Island police reports

Anna Maria Oct. 18, 200 block of Gladiolus Street, noise. The Manatee County Sheriff’s Office dispatched a deputy in response to a complaint about “kids out back having a good time playing loud music.” The deputy reported that the good times were not occurring upon arrival. Oct. 22, 100 block of South Bay Boulevard, domestic disturbance. Two people were involved in a verbal argument while walking along Pine Avenue. A deputy gave them information about domestic rights and remedies. One person then went fishing on the Anna Maria City Pier and the other went to City Pier Park. The Manatee County Sheriff’s Office polices Anna Maria. Bradenton Beach Oct. 17, 2500 block of Avenue B, Baker Act. Bra-

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the biker from behind. The victim and his bike were dragged under the vehicle for about 50 feet. Goodman, 55, reportedly crashed into roadside vegetation and then reversed the vehicle, nearly running over the biker in his attempt to leave. Witnesses said they blocked the vehicle from running over the injured bicyclist, but Goodman drove away from the scene of the crash after freeing his vehicle from the embankment. The officer used witnesses’ videos to search the vehicle’s license plate and found that the driver seen in the videos matched the vehicle’s registered owner. Two BBPD officers went to Goodman’s Longboat Key residence and contacted his parents, who refused to direct the officers to Goodman. They left a number for Goodman to reach them, but he never called. An officer returned to Goodman’s home hours later and asked his father to contact his son. Goodman’s father called his son, who responded and said he would not meet with the BBPD without a lawyer. The officer advised Goodman that he was obstructing justice by not complying with a lawful order, and that he had committed a crime by failing to aid the biker he hit earlier that day. Goodman’s lawyer called the BBPD the next day and was told a capias request was sent to the Florida State Attorney for charges against Goodman. Island watch: In an emergency, call 911. To report information, call the MCSO Anna Maria substation, 941-708-8899; Bradenton Beach police, 941-7786311; or Holmes Beach police, 941-708-5804. denton Beach police officers responded to a possible domestic disturbance and found a woman who said her son was drinking and had begun behaving violently with a knife. She said she was in fear for his life and her life. The officers placed the son in protective custody and he was transported to a treatment facility. Oct. 17, Gulf Drive Cafe, 900 Gulf Drive N., larceny. A person called the BBPD to report a bicycle stolen from a bike rack outside the restaurant. The incident was under investigation. Oct. 19, 1800 block of Gulf Drive N., larceny. A person called the BBPD to report a vehicle tag stolen

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Bradenton man arrested by HBPd for duI, drugs

A Bradenton man was arrested in the early morning hours Oct. 17 for driving under the influence of alcohol and drug possession in Holmes Beach. Nikolas Ward, 23, was arrested at 1:40 a.m. in the 3000 block of Gulf Drive by a Holmes Beach police officer. According to the HBPD report, the officer observed Ward take a wide left turn, with tires on the passenger side of the vehicle off the grass, as he turned onto Manatee Avenue from Gulf Drive. The officer stopped the motorist and reported Ward smelled of alcohol and his speech was slurred. The officer conducted a field sobriety test, which Ward failed. He refused to provide a breath sample. Upon searching Ward, the officer found nine Diazepam pills prescribed to someone else and a baggy that contained 0.9 grams of cocaine. Ward was cited for failure to maintain a single lane and arrested for DUI and two counts of possession of a controlled substance, a third-degree felony. He was transported to the Manatee County jail and released that next day on a $3,120 bond. Ward’s arraignment was set for Nov. 13. — Chrisann allen

from his rental car. An officer issued the caller a stolen vehicle tag report and a victim’s rights packet. Oct. 20, Cortez Beach, 600 Gulf Drive S., Baker Act. BBPD officers were dispatched in response to reports of a woman on the beach firing a gun. Upon arrival, they found the woman, who said she wanted to commit suicide but instead fired into the water. Officers placed her in protective custody under the Baker Act and transported her to Bradenton for treatment. Oct. 21, Drift Inn, 120 Bridge St., Marchman Act. An officer was dispatched to the bar in response to reports of an unresponsive man. The officer found the man intoxicated and unable to communicate, and placed the man in protective custody under the Marchman Act. He was transported for treatment. BBPD polices Bradenton Beach. Cortez No new reports. MCSO polices Cortez. Holmes Beach Oct. 14, Skinny’s Place, 3901 Gulf Drive, information. Two people reported another person appeared to be watching and secretly photographing them while at the restaurant. Oct. 15, 5300 block of Gulf Drive, warrant. A Holmes Beach police officer observed two people running across the road with backpacks and was concerned they had committed a crime. Upon apprehending them, the officer determined one person had an outstanding warrant in Manatee County. The person was arrested and transported to the county jail. The PLeaSe, See STREETLIFE, neXT Page

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STreeTLIFe COnTinued frOm Page 20

other individual was cleared and left the area. Oct. 16, 100 block of 49th Street, noise. An officer was dispatched to a rental for a noise complaint. The officer took a decibel reading from the property line, which registered excessive noise. The tenant at the house where the noise originated was cited. Oct. 16, 3300 block of East Bay Drive, marijuana. An HBPD officer conducted a traffic stop on a golf cart driver. While speaking with the driver, the officer noticed three small bags of marijuana edibles and a bag of marijuana in the vehicle. The driver was cited for possession of less than 20 grams of marijuana. Oct. 16, Manatee Public Beach, 4000 Gulf Drive, theft. Two people reported property stolen from their beach bag while they went for a swim. Oct. 17, Peach’s Restaurant, 3240 E. Bay Drive, theft. A restaurant manager reported money missing from the tip container. After watching video surveillance, an HBPD officer and restaurant employees identified the person who took the money. The person was notified and gave the stolen money to the officer, who returned it to the restaurant. Affidavits were taken and results of an investigation were pending. Oct. 18, 6700 block of Gulf Drive, beach fire, alcohol. An officer was dispatched to the beach on a report of a bonfire. Upon arrival, the officer saw people gathered on the beach around a bonfire, drinking alcoholic beverages. One person was cited for burning a fire on the beach and another was cited for possession of alcohol. Oct. 20, 5400 block of Gulf Drive, criminal traffic. An officer observed a motorist in a truck with a trailer driving off the right side of the road. The officer stopped the driver and determined his/her license was suspended. The motorist was issued a citation for overtaking on the right and a notice to appear for driving with a suspended license. The vehicle was towed. HBPD polices Holmes Beach. Streetlife is based on incident reports and narratives from the BBPD, HBPD and MCSO.

BB boater accused of ﬂashing woman A woman called the Bradenton Beach Police Department to report that she had observed a man who exposed his genitals and urinated from a boat in the anchorage area south of the Historic Bridge Street Pier. The caller said her husband asked the 36-yearold man to stop exposing himself, but he refused and began to argue before eventually leaving. The woman signed a criminal complaint affidavit and said the man exposed himself with the intention

RoadWatch

eyes on the road

The Florida Department of Transportation and Manatee County posted the following: • Cortez Road and 119th Street West in Cortez: Work to realign the intersection of 119th Street West at Cortez Road/State Road 684 continues. Phase 2 involves work on the north side of Cortez Road with traffic to Harbor Landings detoured to 127th Street. • Gulf Drive in Bradenton Beach: A county pipeline replacement project continues, involving resurfacing the roadway, reinstallation of paver driveways, removal of construction materials Monday-Saturday. Expected completion is this fall. • Clark and Marina drives in Holmes Beach: Roadway striping is to be installed this fall. — Lisa neff

to be seen from a private premise. BBPD issued her a victim’s rights packet and a Marcy’s Law form, but no charges. Instead, the BBPD filed a capias request to the Florida State Attorney for “discretion on charges,” according to a police report. — ryan Paice

Anna Maria proclaims Farm-City Week

Farm-City Week is drawing near and Anna Maria’s ready for it. This year’s focus is: “Original essential workers — Ag is here to stay!” Anna Maria Mayor Dan Murphy issued a proclamation Oct. 22 recognizing Nov. 7-20 as FarmCity Week, encouraging support for agricultural workers. Michael Ingram, chairman of this year’s committee, told the city the agriculture industry is second in the county only to the tourism. Ingram said the county hosts 753 farms on 239,000 acres and employs more than 3,000 people. Farm-City Week has run for more than 60 years to promote synergy between food producers and the local community. Last year’s celebration highlighted local seafood to benefit the industry ravaged in 2018 and early 2019 by red tide. — ryan Paice

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

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12 years sunset on islander Sabine Musil-Buehler’s murder

Sabine Musil-Buehler “disappeared” the night Barack Obama defeated John McCain and won the presidency. In the ensuing days, those who knew the island businesswoman and activist wondered why they didn’t hear from Musil-Buehler — why wasn’t she cheering on for the Obama-Biden victory? Only one person knew why Musil-Buehler Musil-Buehler wasn’t at the Nov. 4-5 post-election parties or trumpeting about Obama’s “Hope” — and hopes of her own. That person was Musil-Buehler’s boyfriend at the time, a prison parolee named William J. Cumber III. He had worked at Haley’s Motel, which she co-owned, and they lived together on Magnolia Avenue in Anna Maria. Cumber kept a secret for seven years and didn’t confess to killing Musil-Buehler until 2015, when he was facing trial for her murder. He was in prison nearly all those years. Her body was buried on the beach not far from Haley’s the entire time. Her friends and family wondered all that time. And law enforcement searched the island, digging up long stretches of beach and searching properties on anonymous tips. Cumber closed the mystery with his confession but, five years later, the loss remains. In 2015, the newspaper posthumously named Sabine Musil-Buehler the Islander of the Year. On the anniversary of her death — Nov. 4, 2008 — we offer again the tribute penned by publisher Bonner Joy: It was hard to recap the year that was 2015 without that feeling of sadness, grief, relief and prayers for Sabine Musil-Buehler. It was a difficult seven years for those dear to

Musil-Buehler while authorities built a case against William J. Cumber III. A phone call from a friend in law enforcement on the morning of Oct. 15 brought chills to The Islander newsroom. Cumber was being brought from jail to the beach to show the location where he had buried Musil-Buehler. He had confessed to the murder of his girlfriend. He was to be paraded before the media and all who gathered at the beach to watch and there we learned where Sabine had been laid to rest, under a shade pavilion on the beach near the motel operated by her and her estranged husband. It was a deeply sad occasion. Later, we heard the recorded confession and the cold voice of a calm, calculating killer. He was presumptuous that no one had discovered him on that night, carrying her body up the beach walkway in the moonlight. He had to do it. He couldn’t go back to jail. The mystery of what happened to Musil-Buehler on Nov. 4, 2008, came to an abrupt end Oct. 15. He gave us what we needed for closure. We were faced with reality after seven years of

The media gather in October 2015 at the scene — a beach pavilion — where Sabine Musil-Buehler’s body was located. The reporters await a statement from Manatee County Sheriff Brad Steube. Islander File Photo: Jack Elka

searching and speculating. We were left to recall her beauty, vibrance and the free, giving spirit that had been silenced. There were no memorials, no celebration of life. Those came years earlier. But we remembered. We looked back at the glamour photos she posed for with photographer Jack Elka, and we recalled her motel promotions, events like 1950s dances in her courtyard and nude body-painting on the beach. Briefly, she came back to life in our memories. And, suddenly, we knew the abuse she suffered at the hands of a brutal man. Cumber confessed to beating and strangling MusilBuehler and burying her body as part of a plea deal for a sentence that was reduced from life in prison to 20 years. She once was loved, admired, befriended, accepted. She was dearly missed. Finally, we knew her fate. So for the lessons we learned from her loss and for the closure she finally provided from her resting place on the beach, we honor her memory. If you have a chance to help in the fight against domestic abuse, please, do it for Sabine. Put Cumber to rest and again think of her as the sun sets on Anna Maria Island.

Cortez residents mobilize to save ‘net camp’ from DEP-ordered demolition By Leslie Lake Islander Reporter

A controversial house built over the water in Cortez is facing its final destiny. Or not. After Raymond Guthrie Jr. lost his final court attempt to save the stilt-house he built in Sarasota Bay off Cortez, residents of the community began to mobilize to try to save the structure. After a three-year legal battle with the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, which owns the waters under the structure, Guthrie was given 90 days by 12th Judicial Circuit Judge Edward Nicholas to remove the 1,200 square foot non-permitted netcamp building built in 2017. Nicholas issued the order Oct. 8. In what she called a “last effort” Karen Bell, owner of A.P. Bell Fish Co. in Cortez, reached out to Gov. Ron DeSantis and posted a plea for community support on her “Save the Camp” Facebook page. Bell posted a copy of a letter she sent to DeSantis on the page, which has more than 800 followers. “Rather than DEP recognize the historic significance they have been hellbent on having it torn down. Even after showing them aerial photos from the 1920s, 1940s, 1950s and 1970s, that prove the structure was there DEP has not relented,” she wrote. Bell said the camps are iconic to the community and artists worldwide have memorialized the structures. “Cortez today is not only a working fishing village, it is a tourist destination,” Bell wrote the governor. “We have managed to blend both industries by developing a symbiotic relationship between the two.” Bell asked supporters of the camp to write to the governor at governorron.desantis@eog.myflorida. com. In response to the social media plea, Facebook commenter Christopher Banan wrote, “Cortez village is a truly unique part of Florida commercial fishing history and needs to be preserved. Please help save the net camps, Gov. DeSantis. Our local commercial fishermen deserve it.” Charlene Parks wrote, “My grandpa was once one of them fishermen (Enoch McCain) Save the Net

camps in Cortez !!!” Bell recalled that at least three structures were built on the same pilings as Guthrie’s stilt-house. “When I was a little girl, there was a building there used for raising clam seedlings,” Bell told The Islander Oct. 22. “I forget which storm it was, but it was knocked down and all that was left were the pilings. When it was rebuilt, there wasn’t a peep about it.” Guthrie has maintained that the structure is a historic “net camp,” where cotton fishing nets were stored by commercial fishers for generations, including by his

father and grandfather. “Kathe Fannon also is going to start a GoFundMe page to help with costs of potentially moving the camp,” Bell wrote on Facebook. Fannon, who is known as Captain Kathe and who runs boat tours in Sarasota Bay off Cortez, declined The Islander’s request for comment Oct. 22. “I know some people are talking about putting the camp onto a barge,” Bell said of a possible plan to save the stilt house. “I don’t know how they would do that. I think it should stay right where it is.”

Renourishment takes on final leg at Coquina Beach

Two bulldozers push fresh sand Oct. 22 toward dunes in the 1300 block of Gulf Drive South in Bradenton Beach for what will be the final leg of a $17 million beach renourishment project providing new sand to eroded beaches. The project began July 8 near 77th Street in Holmes Beach and is planned to conclude ahead of projections the first week of November at Longboat Pass. Work slowed the week of Oct. 19 as contractors navigated the groins with heavy equipment. “But they are through the bottleneck now,” David Ruderman, communications representative for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, a funding source for project, wrote The Islander Oct. 22. Islander Photo: ChrisAnn Allen

Page 24 THE ISLANDER | islander.org OCT. 28, 2020 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

marked rows of relocated sea turtle nests stretch to the horizon June 24 at a nest nursery between anna maria and Holmes Beach. amiTW relocated 349 nests to the nursery ahead of a beach renourishment project. islander file Photo: Chrisann allen

Nesting notes By ChrisAnn Allen

AMITW rocks renourishment, wraps up season

a loggerhead hatchling leaves tracks Sept. 10 as it reaches the waterâ€™s edge in the gulf of mexico. islander file Photo: Courtesy amiTW

on the island beaches. This year, nests laid outside of the project area north of 77th Street in Holmes Beach and in Anna Maria, were unmarked and hatch data was not collected, although turtle watch recorded the dates nests were laid and the location. On the Tampa Bay side of the island, where nesting tends to be scant, turtle watch did no tracking. â€œConsidering that we werenâ€™t monitoring nests

Linda Oneal, amiTW volunteer, reaches into a sea turtle nest Oct. 20 to collect data from the last known hatch of the 2020 nesting season. The excavation revealed 63 hatched, 12 unhatched and one dead hatchling. islander Photo: Courtesy amiTW

outside of the project area, our numbers were consistent with recent years,â€? Suzi Fox, AMITW executive director, said Oct. 22. The relocated nests were placed on higher ground, leading to a hatch rate of about 70 live hatchlings per nest, compared with the 2019 hatch rate of 66 live turtles per nest, when heavy rain and occasional high tides contributed to the lower rate. Also, previously, about 92 turtle watch volunteers took turns conducting daily beach walks May-October on one of nine 1-mile sections of beach to look for the tractor-like tracks indicating a newly laid sea turtle nest or, later in the season, tiny tracks made by hatchlings headed to the Gulf of Mexico. Nine people served as volunteer coordinators for each section and most mornings, data collection after nests hatched. However, due to concerns over the spread of the novel coronavirus, as well as procedural changes for renourishment, which required a more experienced team of people surveying the beach by ATV day and night, ahead of the renourishment equipment, the team was consolidated and everyone was â€œcrosstrainedâ€? for all tasks throughout season. Fox said decreasing the volunteers was one of the biggest changes in the organizationâ€™s 38 years. And the smaller group meant more accurate data collection through daily experience, including recognizing the difference between false crawls â€” a failed nesting attempt â€” and the tracks that lead to nests. â€œEveryone that sees us on the beach wants to be PLeaSe, See NESTING, neXT Page

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as of Oct. 25: 349 nests and 451 false crawls within the renourishment area, with 290 hatched nests and approximately 20,237 hatchlings to the sea.

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It was a strange, but successful season for sea turtles nesting and hatching on Anna Maria Island. Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch collected data Oct. 20 from the last reported loggerhead nest on island beaches. The nest was one of 349 laid since May, relocated by AMITW volunteers to a â€œnurseryâ€? on the beach near the border between Anna Maria and Holmes Beach, out of the way of a sand replenishment project spanning 5.5 miles of nesting beaches and slated to start about the same time loggerheads began crawling ashore to nest. A team of about 14 volunteers worked around the clock to locate new nests, dig up the clutch, transport and place eggs in newly hand-dug nests and mark the nests for data collection later in season. From the relocated nests, 20,174 hatchlings emerged July-October and crawled to the Gulf of Mexico, according to AMITW. In 2019, turtle watch reported nearly 36,000 hatchling emergences â€” a record-breaking number. However, 2020 was different. Usually, AMITW documents every nest spotted

OCT. 28, 2020 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 25 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

By Lisa Neff

Gone batty for Halloween

“Between me and the moonlight flitted a great bat, coming and going in great, whirling circles,” Bram Stoker wrote in the novel “Dracula.” Shivers. How many of us think of the vampire bat — a blood-thirsty terror — when we think of bats? Or is the thought of the bloodsucking vampire bat now superseded by the thought of a virus-transmitting bat? neff I realized just how many bats populate west Manatee County when I moved to a neighborhood full of tall pines and thick live oaks dripping with Spanish moss. The bats come out just after sunset and they seem most active and most populous in the summer and early fall. An estimated 1,300 bat species exist in the world and 13 of the species can be found year-round or seasonally in Florida and another seven bats — accidental species — have been seen occasionally. Florida’s bats include: big brown bat, tricolored bat, evening bat, gray myotis, Northern yellow bat, Seminole bat, Brazilian free-tailed bat, Eastern red bat, Florida bonneted bat, Hoary bat, Rafinesque’s bigeared bat, Southeastern myotis, velvety free-tailed bat NeSTING COnTinued frOm Page 24

part of the group,” she said. “So I realized we had too many people not walking frequently enough to really get the experience we need to collect the data, which is our main responsibility.” She said, while nesting has increased since 1982, it does not require nearly 100 volunteer walkers. “We’ve learned not to split up sections, but to all be one team that can do everything,” she said. “I wish we had done this earlier in the game.” Additionally, Turtle Talks, an educational lecture, video presentation and Q&A session held weekly during past seasons, was canceled this year due to COVID-19.

You might find Seminal bats roosting in Spanish moss and yellow bats roosting in the old fronds of sabal palms — a good reason to leave the scruffy fronds attached to the trees. And Brazilian bats can be found at island bridges. Last year, before a round of major repairs got underway on the Longboat Pass Bridge, special netting was installed to keep bats from entering work areas but allowing bats present to safely remain. For those curious about bats in their habitat, the University of Florida offers a bat cam —floridamuseum.ufl.edu/bats/streaming — that live streams activity at the world’s largest occupied bat houses. The florida bonneted bat is endemic to the state Observe them. and one of the rarest mammals in north america, They are fascinating animals — the only mamwith one of the most restrictive ranges of any bat mals capable of true and sustained flight, a thrill to species in the united States. islander Photo: Courwatch in flight, ecologically necessary, economically tesy molly duVall/fWC beneficial. Bats control pests, pollinate, disperse seeds, fertiland then the accidentals. You’ll notice that the vampire bat didn’t make the ize the land. Still scared? above list. Some species are found throughout the state, some Factoid migrate to the state and some have restricted range in Did you know the state. A few species, mostly found in south Florida, feed the bone structure on nectar, pollen and fruit but most of the bats are of a bat wing is like insectivorous, eating moths, flies, beetles, wasps, ants the bone structure of and mosquitoes. We can be thankful for their appetites a human hand? during the mosquito season that seems to run MarchDecember, as one bat can eat hundreds of insects in a single night. Bats will roost anywhere here — bridges and Turtle watch warns: buildings, tree cavities, palm fronds, the undersides Keep lights turtle-friendly of branches, utility pools and in Spanish moss. Everyone loves surprises. On the mainland, you might find bats roosting in Sea turtle nesting season on Anna Maria Island dead trees, hiding behind loose bark or holes carved officially ended when the last known nest was out by birds or insects. excavated Oct. 20, but some unexpected hatches could occur, according to Suzi Fox, Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring But Fox said she plans to apply for grants to record executive director. a series of educational videos about sea turtle nesting Additionally, green sea turtles, that typically on the island, to be shared online in lieu of live meets, nest late in the sea turtle season and a less common even after the pandemic. species on AMI beaches, were still nesting south “We don’t have to be live to share the informaof AMI as of Oct. 22. tion,” Fox said. So Fox asked that people keep the beaches She added that the organization also will cease dark and free of beach gear — and maintain use providing printed handouts, as they could end up as of Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Combeach pollution. mission-approved exterior lighting — through the “We’ve learned this year that there could be better first week in November and remember to turn off ways to do things,” she said. “Lasting changes that interior lights or shut curtains or blinds at night. could truly benefit the sea turtles nesting on our island, — Chrisann allen as well as our organization.”

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Youth soccer championships set, adults heat up center pitch By Kevin P. Cassidy islander reporter

After eight weeks of action in the youth soccer league at the Center of Anna Maria Island, it’s come down to one game. Two actually. Beach Bums and Progressive Cabinetry will square off in the 8-10 division championship match at 6:45 p.m. Oct. 27 at the center, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria, after press Cassidy time for the Oct. 28 newspaper, while Tidy MD and Gulf Drive Cafe will follow in the 11-14 division title match at 7:30 p.m. The first 8-10 semifinal match Oct. 20 ended in a scoreless tie and penalty kicks to decide a winner. Beach Bums player Julie Baugher was the first to line up for a penalty kick — sending her shot into the net for a 1-0 lead. The next seven players on the two teams failed to hit the net, leaving the score 1-0 with Hayden Eurice being the fifth and final player to take a turn from the penalty spot for Beach Bums, and he converted. Beach Bums clinched the victory. The second semifinal match saw Progressive Cabinetry cruise to a 6-1 victory over HSH Designs behind a hat trick from Jack McCarthy and two goals from Jesse Zaccagnino. Malia Keith chipped in a goal and Jackson Kennedy had an assist to complete the scoring in the victory. Savanna Coba scored the lone goal for HSH Designs, which also received eight saves from Paxton Lee in the loss. Action in the 11-14 division kicked off with Tidy MD earning a tidy 3-0 shutout over Slim’s Place. Frankie Coleman paced Tidy MD with a goal and an assist, while Victor Albrecht and Caden Quimby each added a goal. Albrecht also combined with Jayden Sparks and Emma Raulerson on eight saves in the victory. Elek Brisson helped keep Slim’s Place in the loss with nine saves. The second semifinal match between Gulf Drive Cafe and Ugly Grouper also ended in a 3-0 shutout with the cafe advancing to the finals. Dennis Gallagher had a goal and an assist, while Aiden Gannon had a goal and a save. Carter Eurice completed the scoring with one goal and Evan Talucci finished with five saves in the victory. Adult football continues on center ﬁeld After six weeks of action, the standings in the adult flag football league at the center are fairly tight from top to bottom. Gulfview Windows and Doors is firmly set in last place with an 0-5 record, but there’s still some possible movement for playoff seeding throughout the rest of the standings in the league’s final week. Solid Rock Construction is on top with a 5-1 record, with Slim’s Place and Sandbar are right behind at 4-2. Moss Builders and Beach Bums follow with 3-3 records, while Ugly Grouper and Progressive Cabinetry complete the standings at 2-4. The first of three games played Oct. 22 saw Slim’s Place outscore Sandbar 37-20 behind three touchdown passes from Keith McQuillen and two from Dominick Otteni — who also claimed a touchdown grab. Connor

Haughey also had a big game — eight catches including three that went for a TD. Sandbar was led by Anthony Mannino, who had two touchdown grabs, a safety and a pick-six interception. Quarterback Tim Holly threw two TD passes to round out the offense for Sandbar in the loss. The second game of the night saw Solid Rock Construction demonstrate why they’re riding in first with a dominating 40-21 victory over Ugly Grouper behind four TD passes from quarterback Tim Shaughnessy and three TD receptions and a rushing TD from Cody Smith. Mike Shaughnessy added a touchdown pass, while Bri Shaughnessy Roberts and Karri Stephens each added TD catches for the victory. Ray Gardner threw for a touchdown and ran for a score to lead Ugly Grouper, which also received touchdowns from Octavious Cole and Ben Sato in the loss. Moss Builders slipped past Progressive Cabinetry 28-25 in the third game of the night behind three touchdown passes and a receiving touchdown from Ryan Moss. Jon Moss also added a touchdown pass and a touchdown reception for Moss Builders, which also got a big game from Cole Carter who finished with six catches including two for touchdowns. Brandon Kull and Brandin Holcomb combined to throw four TD passes — three of them going to Donnie Dietch — to lead the Progressive Cabinetry offense. Cam Winston completed the scoring with a TD grab, while also adding a quarterback sack on defense. The final game of the night saw Beach Bums cruise to a 30-12 victory over Gulfview Windows behind four TD passes from Matthew Manger, who connected twice with Josh Parrish, while also hitting Jaret Rojas and Dina DeJesus for touchdowns. Matt Briley connected on TDs with Jordan DeMers and JB Shuck to lead Gulfview Windows and Doors in the loss.

Adult soccer action heating up With five game results posted in the adult soccer league at the center etched in stone, the standings have evolved in the haves and the have-nots. The top half of the standings for four teams are close, with Slim’s Place leading on a 4-0-1 record, just ahead of Sato Real Estate at 4-1. Signature Granite holds down third with a 3-0-2 record, just in front of fourth-place Blalock Walters at 3-1-1. The standings among the balance of the eight-team league has Ugly Grouper at 2-3, Solid Rock Construction and Progressive Cabinetry at 1-4 and Skinny’s Place still in search of a victory at 0-5. Oct. 21 saw the top four take on the bottom four with predictable results. The action started with Slim’s Place cruising to an 8-2 victory over Skinny’s Place in a battle of “places.” Four goals and two assists from Nick Bouchard and two goals and an assist from Cole Peterson paced Slim’s offense. Clancy Vaughn chipped in a pair of goals, while Ryan Moss made 11 saves in the victory. Jonathan Aragon and Chase Diaz each scored one goal to lead Skinny’s Place, which also received seven saves from Kevin Bell in the loss. Blalock Walters demolished Solid Rock Construction 8-2 behind two goals each from Demir Glavan, $

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Matt Staggs and Tyler Brewer. Murap Akay and Austin Nutting each scored one goal to complete the scoring, while Ricky Anderson made seven saves in the victory. Garardo Urbiola and Jamie Hutchinson scored a goal each to lead Solid Rock, which also received three saves from goalie Mark Long in the loss. Sato showed why they’re a top contender with a 10-5 victory over Ugly Grouper in the third match of the evening behind two goals each from Trevor Fair, Kali Richardson, Rico Beissert and Raul Loria. Josh Sato added a goal and two assists while John Hagerty and Beissert combined to make 10 saves in the victory. Chris Scott and Nate Welch scored two goals each to lead Ugly Grouper, which also received a goal from Eliza Faillace and 13 saves from Robb Marshall in the loss. The final match of the night at the center pitch saw Signature Granite earn a dominating 11-2 victory over Progressive Cabinetry behind three goals each from Urger Dumaz and Olsin Crean. Lindsey Styka and Hakan Toka each added a pair, while Zack Lieb added a goal and Steve Oelfke made five saves to help preserve the victory. Daniel Adan and Andrew Sullivan scored the lone goals for Progressive Cabinetry in the loss. Key Royale golf news Action at Key Royale Club golf course got started Oct. 19 with the men competing in a nine-hole modified-Stableford system match. Steve Vasbinder grabbed clubhouse bragging rights with a plus-6 and a 2-point victory. Eric Lawson took second with a plus-4, while Terry Tarras and Quentin Talbert shared matching plus-3s in third place. The women played a nine-hole individual-low-net match in three flights Oct. 20. Margrit Layh fired a 4-under-par 28 to earn a fourshot victory in Flight A. Sue Wheeler’s 2-under-par 30 earned her a firstplace finish in Flight B. Terry Westby shot the round of the day with a 5-under-par 27 that gave her first place in Flight C. The men were back on the course Oct. 22 for a nine-hole shamble. The team of Gary Razze, Kurt Snouffler and Ron Vandeman combined on a 1-under-par 31 to grab the win for the day. Horseshoe news Three teams advanced from pool play to the knockout stage during Oct. 21 horseshoe action at the Anna Maria City hall horseshoe pits. Bob Lee drew the lucky bye into the finals and watched as Steve Doyle and Tom Farrington advanced with a solid 23-6 victory over Norm Langeland. The finals saw Lee cruise to a 25-14 victory over Doyle and Farrington to earn the win. Three teams also advanced to a playoff during the Oct. 24 games. Neil Hennessey drew the bye and watched as Lee and Tom Skoloda defeated Farrington and Bob Hawks 22-13 in the semifinal. The finals saw Hennessey fall behind by a 16-0 score before heating up to outscore Lee and Skoloda 22-3 down the stretch, including a game-ending double-ringer that put an exclamation point on a 22-19 come-from-behind victory. Play gets underway at 9 a.m. Wednesdays and Saturdays at the Anna Maria pits. Warmups begin at 8:45 a.m. followed by random team selection. There is no charge to play and everyone is welcome.

Answers to The Islander anniversary quiz from page 14 1. A. And we’re still reporting on Sunshine Law issues. 2. True. Bradenton Beach Mayor Katie Pierola also wrote a congratulatory letter. 3. C. 4. B. 5. False. But the bistro was serving lunch in 1992.

6. A. 7. False. AMIAL was organizing a “festival of fine arts.” 8. B. 9. True. That is not the property value today. 10. B. But Birdie and Ernie might have repeated the quote.

OCT. 28, 2020 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 27 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Migratory fish — macks, jacks, kings — invade nearshore water By Capt. Danny Stasny Islander Reporter

Fall fishing in the nearshore waters of the Gulf of Mexico — within a mile of the beach — is yielding some thrilling action for visiting and local anglers. Spanish mackerel have invaded our waters in large schools, ravaging every sort of bait that crosses their path. While targeting macks, you’ll encounter bonito and kingfish. Stasny And you can guarantee the sharks are not far behind. Many varieties of shark — Blacktip, hammerhead, bull and spinner sharks — are on the prowl and being caught. Their consuming fresh-cut pieces of legal-sized mackerel or chunks or bonito within seconds of the bait being cast into the water on a stout shark rig — hard wire and a 6/0 or 8/0 circle hook. The action is some of the most exciting fishing our area has to offer, so don’t miss out. On my Southernaire charters, I’m enjoying fishing along the beaches on the fall migratory bite — Spanish and king mackerel, bonito and, of course, sharks. Shortly after anchoring, we are witnessing large explosions on the surface of the water, as large sharks are attempting to hunt down and devour the bonito and macks feeding on the abundance of bait. Casting free-lined shiners into these schools is resulting in immediate hookups. Sometimes there isn’t even enough time to close the bail before receiving a bite. As we are reeling in the macks and bonito, hungry sharks are attacking the catches. The macks not eaten by the sharks are quickly being released into the ice chest, destined to be brined and smoked for fish dip. Moving to the flats, catch-and-release action on spotted seatrout is as good as it gets. Free-lining live shiners over the right deep grass flats is resulting in a bite on just about every bait for my clients. Capt. Aaron Lowman is finding good action while

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Dan Thornquist of Lakeland shows off a giant mangrove snapper caught Oct. 25 on a pilchard in 110 feet of water in the Gulf of Mexico on an offshore charter trip with Capt. David of Anna Maria Charters.

working the flats of Sarasota Bay. Catch-and-release snook are beginning to stage up in these areas in anticipation of winter slowly approaching, which is resulting in excellent fishing. While targeting the catch-and-release snook, Lowman is keeping his eyes peeled for schools of catch-and-release redfish. When these schools are spotted, Lowman has his clients cast fresh-cut dead bait well ahead of the school and letting the fish come to the bait. This results in catches exceeding 30 inches. After fishing the flats, Lowman is moving out into the Gulf of Mexico to target migratory species — macks, bonito, kingfish and sharks. All of these species are cooperating nicely and readily taking freelined baits soon after they are cast. Capt. Jason Stock is working along the beaches of Anna Maria Island and, due to strong winds, the offshore waters are difficult and uncomfortable to reach, but plenty of action is available towards shore. In depths of 20-30 feet, Stock is finding excellent action on Spanish mackerel, kingfish and sharks. His clients are finding a good bite on permit, with the largest coming in at 30 pounds. Lastly, cruising the beaches in search of tripletail is working well, with some catches reaching 12 pounds.

Anna Maria Island Tides

Date

Oct 28 Oct29 Oct30 Oct31 Nov1 Nov2 Nov3 Nov4

11:12a 11:58a 12:39p 1:18p 12:56p 1:37p 2:26p 12:08a

HIGH

2.1 2.0 2.0 1.9 1.8 1.7 1.6 2.6

11:09p 11:22p 11:35p 11:51p 11:12p 11:37p — 3:30p

HIGH

LOW

2.1 2.2 2.3 2.4 2.5 2.6 — 1.5

4:50a 5:25a 5:58a 6:30a 6:02a 6:37a 7:16a 8:00a

0.8 0.5 0.3 0.2 0.1 0.0 -0.1 -0.1

4:55p 5:20p 5:40p 5:57p 5:13p 5:27p 5:43p 5:58p

LOW

Fishing Charters Capt. Warren Girle

Moon

0.8 0.9 1.1 1.2 FULL 1.3 1.4 1.4 1.4

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

Jim Malfese at the Rod & Reel Pier says catchand-release snook and redfish are being caught with regularity. Using live shrimp as bait is luring both species to the hook. Larger baits — live pinfish and freshcut mullet — are attracting the reds. Casting jigs and spoons is working well for migratory species — macks, ladyfish, blue runners and jack crevalle, while some lucky anglers are hooking into a bonito here and there. Lastly, patient anglers using live shrimp as bait are managing to take home some mangrove snapper. Capt. David White — back from a mountain vacation — is running offshore when the seas are calm and the winds light. On the sporadic days, when the conditions are good, White is hooking up clients with a variety of species. Mangrove snapper exceeding 20 inches are just some of the fish going into the cooler. Other catches include yellowtail snapper, red grouper and blackfin tuna. On the windier days when offshore hunting is unattainable, White is staying close to the beach, putting clients on kingfish, bonito, Spanish mackerel and sharks. Send high-resolution photos and fishing reports to fish@islander.org.

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Page 28 THE ISLANDER | islander.org OCT. 28, 2020 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

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

HELP WANTED

free! Large, HeaVY pine TV cabinet. excellent condition. moving, cannot take. Call 941-7376887

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 1-866-3629821. (limited time offer)

HeLP WanTed: Hard WOrKerS for small family-friendly restaurant. front and back of house needed. inquire in person at Pizza Social, 308 Pine ave., anna maria.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

BuBBLeS LinenS LaundrY facility in ami is now hiring full and part-time. day and night shifts. need to be able to lift 40-pound bags. $10 per hour. 941-962-7294.

free SPiriT Ten-speed bike: ride away now for $50. 941-356-1456. Car rOOf raCK: Quick install, black, like new $90, 941-920-2494.

WanTed: WOrKOuT dVds and retired but working XBox, Wii units with games for ministry of Presence for kids and teens in Haiti. deliver to The islander, 3218 e. Bay drive, Holmes Beach.

BOaT HOiST: i Beam system. Steel. excellent condition. $49. Leather couch, nearly new, $100. 941-778-3920, 941-778-5542. SHiP’S WHeeL TaBLe: Capt. J. Lindroth original masterpiece of inlaid wood and brass. 19-inches tall, 45-inch diameter. $1,500. also, related pieces. marinateal@gmail.com.

WanTed: YOur OLd cellphone for recycling. deliver to The islander, 3218 e. Bay drive, Holmes Beach.

anTiQue ParTner deSK: all wood, $1,000. See at The islander office, 3218 e. Bay drive, Holmes Beach. 941-778-7978.

free gun LOCK courtesy of Project Childsafe, florida fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and Holmes Beach Police department. Pick up at The islander office, 3218 e. Bay drive, Holmes Beach. don’t be sorry, be safe.

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2004 PrOLine 22-foot walk-around Cuddy. 2009 Suzuki 250-hp. 813-240-2697.

ANSWERS TO OCT. 28 PUZZLE

E S πr M A O U S U S E N I T A N T R G E S E S W S E R

S L O U C H E S C Y A N

C O M F I E R

T P E N I R Y N S E S E P E V A M A N A S I G N I N L A E E N S Y S T T E A P S S πr O O I N P T O A P L O N A S S I P E L S R E E

U M πr O G U A N A N T E S E L S T S πr E B A E R O B S O B W T I O Y E E M A M A B R A V A G N E B O U N Y A G A B L E S E πr I V E I N O R N G A G

rePOrTer WanTed: full- to part-time. Print media, newspaper experience required. apply via email with letter of interest to news@islander. org.

KIDS FOR HIRE KidS fOr Hire ads are free for up to three weeks for island youths under 16 looking for work. ads must be placed in person at The islander office, 3218 e. Bay drive, Holmes Beach.

SERVICES u fLY i drive your car anywhere in the uSa. airport runs, anywhere. Office, 941-4476389. 941-545-6688. need a ride to airports? Tampa $65, St. Pete, $55, Sarasota, $30. gary, 863-409-5875. gvoness80@gmail.com. CLeaning: VaCaTiOn, COnSTruCTiOn, residential, commercial and windows. We service VrBO and airbnb. Licensed and insured. 941744-7983. PreSSure WaSHing, PaVer sealing, driveway, roof, fence, pool area. also, window cleaning. Licensed and insured. 941-565-3931. i dOn’T CuT corners, i clean corners. Professional, friendly cleaning service since 1999. 941779-6638. Leave message.

BaYSHOre HOme WaTCH (accredited service): Providing certified professional weekly home checks. Peace of mind while you’re away. 941-920-5597. Bonded/insured.

PropertyWatch By Johann Bertram Real estate transactions