Making way. 4 astheworldterns save room for skimmers. 6
Pier progress. 13
Love story. 22
#aMItogether
VOLUME 28, NO. 31
MAY 27, 2020 FRee
tourism experts plan for summer. 4
Meetings. 4 Vote Notes. 4
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Looking back. 7
storm tracking
Virus testing increases, cases drop. 8
2020 Atlantic hurricane season
Outlook: Busy storm season brewing
island explodes with holiday revelers. 9
Happenings
By Lisa neff islander editor
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Stockpiling. 21 A LOOK BACK: aMe fifth-grade students garrett nock and olivia inda smile Sept. 11, 2019, during a celebration for international Peace day. the aMe graduating class will be honored May 28. See more, page 17. islander Photo: courtesy Jessica nock
A federal forecast calls for an “abovenormal� hurricane season and comes with a reminder that it only takes one storm to cause catastrophic damage. “As Americans focus their attention on a safe and healthy reopening of our country, it remains critically important that we also remember to make the necessary preparations for the upcoming hurricane season,� Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross said May 21, during a media call to review the forecast. The Atlantic hurricane season officially is June 1-Nov. 30. The outlook from the National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration’s Climate Prediction Center, shows a 60% chance of an above-normal season, 30% chance of a near-normal season and a 10% chance of a below-normal season. NOAA predicts 13-19 named storms, of which 6-10 could become hurricanes, with winds of 74 mph or higher, and 3-6 could become major hurricanes, with winds of 111 mph or higher. An average hurricane season produces 12 named storms, of which six become hurricanes, including three major hurricanes. PLeaSe, See stoRMs, Page 21
Rental oodgates open, businesses see hope By ryan Paice islander reporter
no letting up on tarpon run. 23
PropertyWatch. 24 CLASSIFIEDS. 24
NYT puzzle. 27
#AMItogether
It’s check-in time on Anna Maria Island. With the prohibition lifted on shortterm vacation rentals in Manatee County, hope rose among Anna Maria Island business owners struggling in the third month of restrictions due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Gov. Ron DeSantis approved Manatee County’s safety plan to open short-term rental operations May 21 after a nearly twomonth-long closure due to concerns with the spread of the novel coronavirus. The governor previously prohibited new bookings and new check-ins at rentals for 30 days or less but, in mid-May allowed counties to draft safety plans and apply for permission to lift the ban. Manatee County filed its plan May 19 and received the go-ahead from the state
May 21, and the island’s vacation homes were immediately available for guests. The plan restricts local vacation rental owners and managers from accepting reservations from international travelers and U.S. residents living where, as of May 15, there was an overall COVID-19 case rate of less than 700 cases per 100,000 residents. Local vacation rentals managers can not accept reservations from New York, New Jersey, Massachusetts, Connecticut, Rhode Island, the District of Columbia, Delaware, Illinois and Louisiana. Vacation rental properties must hold off 24 hours after checkout before accepting a new check-in — less turnaround time than the 72 hours specified in phase 2 of the state’s reopening guide — as well as follow instructions for operating and sanitizing properties. County administrator Cheri Coryea said at a May 19 telemeeting that rental man-
agers would self-police, but potential violations can be reported to the county code enforcement department at 941-748-2071 or the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office at 941-747-3011, ext. 2260. By the afternoon of May 22, numerous vehicles with out-of-state tags — Wisconsin, Illinois, New York and more — were observed at Publix in Holmes Beach, and the store was busy with families — sometimes 6-8 people — shopping together, mostly with no masks. Opening the rental oodgates Holmes Beach resident Mike Roaldi, the owner of two vacation rental properties in Anna Maria, told The Islander May 22 he’s pleased to reopen his properties and will abide by the plan. He agreed with the decision to close vacation rentals until the state flattened the PLeaSe, See Floodgates, Page 2
Page 2 THE ISLANDER | islander.org May 27, 2020 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................
Pedestrians make their way across a Bridge Street crosswalk May 23 on Memorial Day weekend. Islander Photos: Ryan Paice Floodgates continued froM Page 1
curve of positive cases, but he says he lost more than $40,000 in revenue. He said the ban wasn’t lifted early enough for many properties to book for Memorial Day. “It’s going to take a little while to get the industry rolling again,” Roaldi said. “But I think I see harmony in the future again and I’m excited about that.” Marianne Norman-Ellis is co-owner of the Holmes Beach-based Mike Norman Realty, offering sales and rental management. “I don’t think vacation rentals should have been shut down in the first place,” she said. “I definitely think a vacation rental would be safer than a motel because there are less communal spaces.” Norman-Ellis said her 43-year-old business would weather the storm, but she’s concerned for less-established and smaller operations. “I’m very happy the vacation rentals are reopening. And not just for us, but for our property owners and all of the local businesses,” she said. Mike Coleman, proprietor of Poppo’s Taqueria, with numerous locations in Manatee County, a store
Traffic pours onto Bridge Street May 23 at the start of what became a busy Memorial Day weekend for Bradenton Beach.
in St. Petersburg and the original location on Pine Avenue, and a partner in Pine Avenue rentals in Anna Maria, called the rental industry the “lifeblood” of the local business community. “I’m happy they’re open, period,” he said. “There’s not a single job on this island that doesn’t depend on vacation rentals.” Coleman said he was not in favor of closing rentals, restaurants or retailers. “I feel awful for the people who lost their jobs but, we, as an island, have been through and have overcome worse before,” Coleman said. Brian Seymour, owner of the Anna Maria General Store and a former Anna Maria city commissioner, told The Islander May 22 he too is happy to see rental homes reopening. The general store, an essential business selling groceries and sundries, did not close, but, Seymour said, March sales were down 70% compared with March 2019 and the store lost about $3,000 a day in April. Seymour said his business usually lightens up in May, but reopening vacation rentals might provide an opportunity to make up for the recent losses.
“My concern is for the business community as a whole and what it’s going to be like four months from now,” Seymour said. “I think that will be the true test for if businesses can survive.” “Unfortunately, I think there’s a handful of small businesses that won’t be able to survive the slow season,” he added. Ten business owners — representing Fun And More Rentals, Island Scoops, Island Real Estate, Bins Be Clean, Book A Little Sunshine, Suncoast Cleaning, Fran Maxon Real Estate, Coastal Cottages, Island Retreat Cleaning and Island Coffee Haus — joined 63 island vacation home owners in signing a letter asking for support for short-term rental operations. The letter, sent the day the state approved the reopening, said, “Currently, there are 309 local businesses listed on the chamber of commerce website that rely on tourist traffic for their livelihood. Vacation rentals represent 85% of the accommodation types in Manatee County and thus generate the largest portion of traffic to these local businesses. Many local businesses have expressed support for vacation rentals rePLeaSe, See Floodgates, Page 3
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Family members look on as one of their group lines up a shot May 23 at Fish Hole Miniature Golf in Bradenton Beach.
Floodgates continued from page 2
opening.”
Island cities and concerns But some island officials objected to new checkins and others expressed reservations. Holmes Beach Mayor Judy Titsworth, in a May 19 mayoral report, said it is too early to reopen rentals but her concerns were ignored by the county. “The chief, code compliance and I sent a letter to the county administrator and commissioners voicing our concerns, but this request fell on deaf ears,” Titsworth wrote. “The fact that this agenda item was added last minute and without consideration of weighin from municipalities most affected is leadership at its worst.” County commissioners voted to ask the state to lift the ban May 19, the day after the county tourist development council recommended reopening short-
term rentals. Titsworth encouraged those who resume business to provide staff and guests with face masks. “It is more important than ever not to let our guards down. Our deaths and COVID-19 positive cases continue to rise each and every day,” the mayor said, referring to county and state infections. In Bradenton Beach, Mayor John Chappie told city commissioners May 19 that the county did an “excellent job” creating the plan and he agreed with the decision to reopen rentals before Memorial Day weekend. However, Chappie had concerns for enforcement. “Who’s going to be doing inspections and overseeing the property management companies?” he asked. “We don’t have the staff or time to enforce something like that.” Anna Maria Mayor Dan Murphy, in a May 22 email to The Islander, wrote, “I have serious concerns
A couple looks over the pier and the Sarasota Bay waters and boaters coming and going to tie up at the floating dock May 23 at the Historic Bridge Street Pier in Bradenton Beach.
with some portions of the plan, such as enforcement and fraud and potential criminal activity associated with (the rental company) ‘no-contact’ check-ins. I have relayed my concerns to the county and hope they will take action.”
Page 4 THE ISLANDER | islander.org May 27, 2020 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................
Outdoor services accommodated in Bradenton Beach People are served outdoors May 23 at the Bridge tender inn’s bayfront parking lot. the Bridge tender was one of the first Bridge Street businesses to open expanded outdoor operations in Bradenton Beach. islander Photo: ryan Paice
By ryan Paice islander reporter
Customers are being served vitamin D in Bradenton Beach. Some Bradenton Beach businesses are cashing in and making up for some COVID-19-related revenue losses. City commissioners voted unanimously May 21 for an ordinance temporarily lifting land development code restrictions to allow expanded open-air dining and retail sales on private property. The vote also allows for the conversion of up to 50% of on-site parking spaces — not handicap-access spaces — into outdoor dining and retail space. Tents and canopies are allowed and permitted businesses can ignore the established setbacks for their operations. The vote also allowed a walkway by closing six parking spaces on the south side of Bridge Street — from the Debbie and Mike Hynds-owned 119 Bridge St. building to the Bridge Tender Inn, 135 Bridge St. — to separate pedestrians from traffic while the sidewalk accommodates dining and retail sales. Local businesspeople provided guidance in prepar-
Candidate qualifying ahead
Candidate qualifying for the 2020 municipal elections in Anna Maria will open at noon June 1 and close at noon June 12. Commission seats held by Amy Tripp and Mark Short and the mayoral post held by Dan Murphy are up for election. Qualifying in Bradenton Beach and Holmes Beach will begin at noon June 8 and end at noon June 12. Commission seats held by Marilyn Maro and Ralph Cole are up for election in Bradenton Beach. In Holmes Beach, the mayoral post held by Judy Titsworth and commission seats held by Pat Morton and Kim Rash are up for election. In order to qualify to run for a municipal seat, candidates must submit qualifying paperwork and fees to the Manatee County Supervisor of Elections Office, 600 301 Blvd. W., Bradenton Qualification fees may vary, but they must be paid from a campaign bank account. The qualifying period also is June 8-12 for those seeking to run for state legislative and Manatee County offices, including the board of county commissioners. The general election will be Nov. 3. The primary will be Aug. 18. For more details about candidate qualifying, as well as information about registering to vote or voting by mail, go online to votemanatee.com.
ing the plan, according to city attorney Ricinda Perry, who said, as of May 21, four businesses had applied to expand outdoor commercial areas, including the Daiquiri Deck, one of the newest businesses in the city. The building housing Daiquiri Deck and the associated retail stores are owned by Bradenton Beach Commissioner Jake Spooner. If an operation causes a threat to public health and safety, the city can revoke the permit. City officials expressed hope that the ordinance would allow businesses to expand their footprints to make up for the 50% capacity limits and allow them to better maintain social distancing guidelines. “These people have lost everything and I’m sure they appreciate this,” Commissioner Marilyn Maro — Lisa neff said. The policy will remain in place for the duration of the governor’s Executive Order 20-112, as well as throughout any subsequent orders limiting occupancy, Anna Maria City May 28, 6 p.m., city commission. seating capacity or mandating social distancing for June 11, 10 a.m., city commission. businesses. Anna Maria City Hall, 10005 Gulf Drive, 941-708Business owners can apply on the city’s website, 6130, cityofannamaria.com. www.cityofbradentonbeach.com. Note: City hall is closed until further notice. For There is no application fee. details on meeting participation, call 941-708-6130.
Meetings
Tourism experts plan for summer roadtrips By Lisa neff islander editor
Manatee County’s tourism team is mapping an economic recovery that involves road-tripping vacationers. With businesses expanding operations and shortterm rentals unlocking the doors, the Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau resumed marketing. The goal is to market to people in the Southeast, who will drive rather than fly during the COVID-19 pandemic. “We do not expect air travel in the near future. Those desiring to vacation are going to have to travel by car,” Dave DiMaggio, president of Aqua Marketing and Communications, told the Manatee County Tourist Development Council during a May 18 telemeeting. That’s not a setback for Manatee County tourism. “We’ve had a drive market for years,” DiMaggio said. “We know where people come.” Advertising to the “drive market” will deliver visitors to the island and elsewhere in Manatee from Tampa Bay, Orlando, Miami/Dade and Atlanta. DiMaggio said other CVBs will target the same market so the Bradenton CVB is expanding “to create a drive radius across the Southeast United States, up to Knoxville.” The marketing campaign also will target Jacksonville and Tallahassee; New Orleans; Memphis, Nashville and Knoxville in Tennessee; Birmingham, Alabama; and Charlotte, North Carolina. The CVB will advertise on travel sites such as Expedia and social media platforms such as Facebook, as well as use paid search tools — types of marketing DiMaggio described as “efficient.” The marketing effort is funded with revenues from the tourist development tax — the 5% tax on accommodations of six months or less. The CVB’s executive director, Elliott Falcione, said revenues will be down about 30% this fiscal year compared with last year due to the impact of COVID-19 and efforts to contain the virus. Falcione told the TDC the monthly marketing
VoteNotes 2020
Bradenton Beach
June 3, 9 a.m., CIP. June 3, 9:30 a.m., CRA. June 3, 2 p.m., Scenic WAVES. June 4, 6 p.m., city commission. Bradenton Beach City Hall, 107 Gulf Drive N., 941-778-1005, cityofbradentonbeach.com. Note: City hall is closed. For details on meeting participation, call 941-778-1005.
Holmes Beach
a map shows targets in the Bradenton area convention and Visitors Bureau plan to bring vacationers back to the area to recover from the impact of the coVid-19 pandemic. islander courtesy image
June 6, 6 p.m., city commission. Holmes Beach City Hall, 5801 Marina Drive, 941708-5800, holmesbeachfl.org. Note: City hall is closed. For details on meeting participation, call 941-708-5800.
Manatee County
May 28, 9 a.m., commission. June 1, 9 a.m., commission (budget). June 3, 1:30 p.m., commission (budget). June 4, 9 a.m., commission (Bradenton Area Convention Center). Administration building, 1112 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton, 941-748-4501, mymanatee.org. Note: County buildings are closed. For details on meeting participation, call 941-748-4501.
budget would be about $500,000 and spent “on platforms where people have intent to buy.” DiMaggio described the plan as “skeletal but surgical.” In other business, the TDC reviewed a report on tourism statistics and a survey of potential travelers. Tourism numbers were not finalized for April but Anne Wittine, data analysis director for Tampa-based Research Data Services, told the TDC that occupancy Of interest was below 10%. June 15, 9 a.m., Manatee County Tourist DevelopShe said two positives were property owners “did ment Council, Holmes Beach City Hall. some creative things to get visitors in for the month of April” and are booking reservations for later this year. About the TDC “It was the first time we’d been hearing any posiThe advisory committee makes recommendative news,” she told the TDC. tions to the board of county commissioners on the In April, Wittine said, she was hearing “there’s no expenditures of tourist tax revenues — a 5% tax light at the end of the tunnel.” on accommodations of six months or less. Also, a survey of potential visitors conducted in The board includes Manatee County Commid-May indicates people want to travel. missioner Misty Servia, Bradenton Mayor Wayne “It’s encouraging that things are starting to break Poston, Palmetto Mayor Shirley Groover Bryant, free for us,” said TDC member and hotelier Eric hoteliers Jiten Patel, Ed Chiles, Eric Cairns and Cairns. Barbara Baker and citizens Jack Rynerson and Wittine said, “We’re moving in the right direcVernon DeSear. tion.”
May 27, 2020 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 5 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................
WE’RE BACK ! We thank all of our volunteers
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Keep Manatee Beautiful.
(941) 795-8272 www.manateebeautiful.com
Page 6 THE ISLANDER | islander.org May 27, 2020 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................
Opinion
Our
Overwhelmed?
Overwrought? Overcrowded? Over it? Before I even get started on what I see as a huge problem with reopening Anna Maria Island, let me just say: We are not over this. We are not safer with crowds in stores, shops, restaurants and on the beaches. We are not winning. This pandemic is still raging. And, if you look at the photographs taken over the Memorial Day weekend by Islander reporters, you may see the reason why we are not winning. There’s some evidence people are trying to social distance in public. But no one in Holmes Beach and Bradenton Beach, where the reporters traveled May 23, was wearing a mask. In fact, people in the photos don’t have masks ready to wear. No kids. No grandparents. No one had masks. Most servers had no mask. That doesn’t mean some other businesses are not encouraging them. I know the Anna Maria Oyster Bar, Waterfront and Eat Here restaurants require staff to wear masks to serve customers. But for Bridge Street businesses? No. And it certainly seals the deal for staying at home for myself and other vulnerable people — and our close contacts. If you go to places that don’t use safety guidelines, you may be putting family members at risk — and everyone else you contact. It’s not just “millennials” as some people have noted. It’s everyone. Everyone needs to be ready and willing to don a mask if social distancing can’t be maintained. All staff, front and back of house. The floodgates are open. The parking lots, not just at the beach, but also at stores like Publix, are full. And many of the license tags I saw May 22 at the supermarket were from the very states prohibited at vacation homes — Illinois, New York and Louisiana. If people are recklessly ignoring the guidelines for a safe reopening for themselves, their families and their business, how will we stop the spread? How will we reduce the risk? Maybe you saw the death toll rising to 100,000. Or maybe you saw the Sunday New York Times, where only 1,000 names of victims of COVID-19 fit on the front page. I’m finding the numbers overwhelming. I think we should do all we can to both stay open Parking without potties and prevent the losses from rising. The city of Anna Maria was required to create Please, mask up. Stay safe. #AMItogether. more than 1,000 parking spaces for public use if it — Bonner Joy wanted to receive money for beach renourishment. There has been a problem ever since. The problem is the expanded parking allows thousands of people to go to the beach all day with no public bathrooms. I try not to think about it but in this COVID-19 MAY 27, 2020 • Vol. 28, No. 31 world I am nervous about crowds clustered at the beach ▼ Publisher and Editor access points and the potential pollution in the Gulf. Bonner Joy, news@islander.org ▼ Editorial If any of you went to the beach the past several Lisa neff, editor, lisa@islander.org weekends, you know what I am talking about. chrisann allen, chrisann@islander.org What has made it worse is the other cities have Sandy ambrogi, sandy@islander.org Joe Bird, editorial cartoonist restricted their parking and forced many more daytripKevin cassidy, kevin@islander.org pers to find beach parking in Anna Maria. Michael dunn, michael@islander.org I have seen many new signs restricting parking Jack elka, jack@jackelka.com Brook Morrison, brook@islander.org under the COVID-19 emergency order but not nearly ryan Paice, ryan@islander.org enough of them near the beach. ▼ Contributors arthur Brice, arthur@islander.org I think this is a great time to put stricter limitations Sarah Brice, sarah@islander.org on parking. Jesse Brisson I think the residents and the people who rent houses Leslie Lake, leslie@islander.org Karen riley-Love deserve a clean safe beach. capt. danny Stasny, fish@islander.org There is plenty of free parking with public bath▼ Advertising Director rooms and snack bars at the county beaches. toni Lyon, toni@islander.org ▼ Office Staff Maybe we should all email the mayor. Lisa Williams, office manager Steve Doyle, Anna Maria Vicki Mcintyre, office assistant, reader advocate
Opinion
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Relax rule against rentals
As a resident of Holmes Beach and owner of two properties in Anna Maria, I can’t tell you how much I appreciated your commentary on vacation homes. We all have choices to make in the coming year and ultimately they boil down to personal responsibility. We have all measured and responded to those risks every day of our lives.
The nature of this virus allowed the staunchest Libertarians among us to make the sacrifices necessary to “flatten the curve.” However, as I look out on a crowded beach, I can’t imagine any level of government totally eliminating the risks moving forward. Why single out vacation rentals? My guess is this is that old agenda once again rearing it’s ugly head. Let’s hope we aren’t headed back to court and open animosity among neighbors again. It has never ended well for any of us and it won’t this time either. Mike Roaldi, Holmes Beach
About choices
Thank you for the recent editorial in The Islander. I agree on many counts including visitors and residents being safer in vacation rentals rather than hotels and spying on neighbors is ludicrous. We all have choices. If I am uncomfortable, I can stay indoors. If not, I can move about freely. My husband and I were on Bridge Street on a recent Saturday. I congratulate and thank the Bridge Street merchants for their adherence to the restrictions, as this allowed us to be out and have a good time. We ate at a restaurant where 25% capacity was strictly enforced. A souvenir shop open was strict about occupancy, as well as staff wearing masks. We asked to walk upstairs to see a new restaurant but we were refused entry, as they were at capacity and their hostess was wearing a mask. Further down the street, another restaurant only had outside seating, with tables 6 feet apart. While the atmosphere was fun, I felt the merchants were very responsible. Carol Roaldi, Holmes Beach
May 27, 2020 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 7 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................
From the archives
… Tracking storms a dark sky and rain on the camera lens suggest a storm approaching from the southeast toward the Manatee Public Beach in Holmes Beach, where swimmers, surfers and sunbathers appear to take little notice. the photo, looking south, is not dated. islander Photos: Manatee county Public Library System digital collection
10&20 years ago
From the May 24, 2000, issue
• Rod & Reel Pier owner Mario Schoenfelder submitted the only bid that met all requirements of the city commission to lease the vacant Anna Maria City Pier. Bids from Rotten Ralph’s and the Gulf Drive Cafe didn’t include an offer to make advance lease payments. The pier restaurant closed in October 1999, when owners of the Anna Maria Oyster Bar declined to renew the lease. • Owners of Island Inc. sued the city of Bradenton Beach after building official Roger Titus refused to issue a permit for construction of two Gulffront duplexes in the 1400 block of Gulf Drive North. Titus claimed the former building official erred by approving the projects. He claimed the land falls in an area designated as a preservation zone in the city’s 1989 comprehensive plan. • Wendy and George Kokolis, owners of the Gulf Drive Cafe property, submitted a design for a new restaurant in Bradenton Beach that would occupy 800 Gulf Drive, the site of the former Trader Jack’s Restaurant adjacent to the cafe. The proposal was for a 153-seat elevated restaurant over parking with a bar and open-air terrace on the third floor.
From the May 26, 2010, issue
… and from Memorial Day weekend Looking north at the Manatee Public Beach May 23, it may appear crowded on the sands in a start to Memorial day weekend, but Manatee county sheriff’s deputies patrolled the public beach and enforced social distancing guidelines. islander Photo: chrisann allen
E
99
NOW readers and business advocates can “bank” ad dollars with The Islander that will be entered into a prize drawing for COVID-19 “reopening” ads ... every dollar deposited for ads in June will be matched by The Islander. Donors can nominate winners or The Islander will select advertisers in a random drawing to receive ad dollars and prizes! All contributors will be included in the prize drawing! It’s your chance to help our mom-and-pop businesses in a win-win promotion!
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INTRODUCING … THE ISLANDER AD BANK!
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• A tourism survey found the Anna Maria City Pier still tops with visitors to the area. The pier was the No. 1 nonretail attraction and St. Armands Circle in Sarasota was the No. 1 retail attraction. • Occupancy on Anna Maria Island rose 7% in April 2010 compared with April 2009. The occupancy rate for the island in April 2010 was 69.1%.
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Page 8 THE ISLANDER | islander.org May 27, 2020 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................
Countywide: COVID-19 testing increases, positive cases drop By chrisann allen islander reporter
Manatee County saw a dramatic uptick in COVID-19 testing in May. With more than 14,000 residents tested as of May 22 — about 3.3% of the population — the county sorted out some hotspots, including long-term care facilities, and dropped the curve of positive cases. “For the latest two weeks, Manatee County and the state largely mirrored each other in terms of trends for fatalities, positive cases and percent positives,” Jake Saur, the county’s public safety director, said May 19 during a teleconferenced county commission meeting. He said the curve for the county and the state trended downward or remained flat since the first week in May. The percentage of positive numbers dropped, but cases still were being confirmed daily in Manatee County as of May 24. As of May 24, the rate of positive COVID-19 cases in Manatee County was 6.7% of 14,620 people tested, according to statistics from the Florida Department of Health. The rate decreased by nearly than 9% since May 1. As of May 24, there were: • 91 fatalities in Manatee County attributed to COVID-19;
• 203 people hospitalized; • More than 605 people who tested positive and recovered. Residents and staff of long-term care facilities accounted for 58 deaths, totaling 63% of fatalities in Manatee County related to the novel coronavirus. As of May 24, 144 residents and 65 staff members tested positive, totaling 199 positive cases in LTCFs — 20% of 975 Manatee County cases. State-initiated incident management teams and the U.S. National Guard continued assisting with infectious disease control the week of May 18, as they have since May 4, according to Saur. Testing in Manatee County May 18 continued at the Bradenton Area Convention Center in Palmetto, six Manatee Rural Health Inc. locations, a state-sponsored regional testing site at the Mall at University Town Center in Sarasota, as well as a mobile site at Turning Points, a facility serving homeless and needy people in Bradenton. Saur said he put in a request with the Florida Department of Emergency Management for a walk-up testing site. In a May 21 email to The Islander, Christopher Tittel, communications director for the DOH in Manatee County, wrote that a team of Manatee County EMS community paramedics received training May 15 at the drive-thru testing site in Palmetto on how to conduct specimen collection for COVID-19.
Manatee county eMS community paramedics work with department of Health Manatee nurses May 15 at a drive-thru specimen collection site for coVid-19 testing at the Bradenton area convention center, 1 Haben Blvd., Palmetto. islander Photo: courtesy doH-Mc
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The community paramedics program provides additional assistance to those who are most vulnerable, including people 65 and older or those with chronic medical conditions. At a May 19 meeting, County Commissioner Misty Servia said some constituents have asked why the county is “celebrating” a percentage decrease when positive cases are being identified daily. Saur said when the percentage was at its peak, the county had not tested enough people to get an accurate representation. More tests meant hotspots could be identified and targeted. “If we see a spike up, we now have enough tests in the system to see if it’s a true spike and determine hotspots,” he said. Commissioner Vanessa Baugh said she has heard many people say they are anticipating the end of COVID-19 and asked if some cases may linger on after the pandemic ends. Saur said, “Yes,” and added that a vaccine must be identified before the novel coronavirus is stopped. “To actually get out of this new world we are in, everyone has to be vaccinated and then we would switch to assisting the DOH with drive-thru vaccinations,” he said. “But for the long-and short-term future, this is the new normal for Manatee County and the rest of the country.”
Cities retain distance meetings, buildings closed
It’s not known when municipal buildings on Anna Maria Island will reopen or when in-person public meetings will resume. Holmes Beach Mayor Judy Titsworth, in a May 20 email to The Islander, said the city is planning a reopening of city hall and other city properties but did not provide details. She said the city would follow the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s guidelines, as well as the Florida Municipal Insurance Trust Reopening Decision Guide. Titsworth said the city would hold public meetings via teleconference “as long as (Gov. Ron DeSantis) permits and the chair chooses.” “The electronic meetings have been going great,” she said. Anna Maria Mayor Dan Murphy, in a May 22 email, said the city is waiting for direction from Manatee County or the state before reopening city hall because the city will use “their input and dates” as a guide. Anna Maria will continue to hold meetings electronically “for now,” and is seeking guidance before resuming in-person meetings. Bradenton Beach Mayor John Chappie did not respond to a May 20 email from The Islander. — ryan Paice
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May 27, 2020 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 9 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................
Island explodes with holiday revelers amid COVID-19 By ChrisAnn Allen Islander Reporter
People missed the beach while they stayed safer at home. But was Anna Maria Island ready for everyone to flood back to the shoreline? “We were so happy to be able come out here,” Amanda Herkel of Lakeland said May 23 of the Manatee Public Beach in Holmes Beach. “I’ve been coming here my whole life, and my mom and grandmother before me,” Amanda’s husband, James Herkel, said. “Generations of my family have loved this island.” However, attendance at the island’s public beaches — especially over Memorial Day, May 23-25 — has picked up since Herkel’s family started visiting the island 60 years ago. By 9:30 a.m. May 23, motorists were circling in the public beach parking lot for open spots. Manatee County code enforcement helped with crowd control and the Manatee County sheriff’s deputies patrolled beaches by ATV to ensure people were maintaining social distancing guidelines of 6 feet apart and groups no larger than 10 people. Parking at the Manatee beach, as well as Coquina and Cortez beaches in Bradenton Beach and Bayfront Park in Anna Maria fully, reopened May 18. Manatee County and municipal officials ordered Anna Maria Island Beaches closed to the public March 20 due to
signs. However, people could walk on the beach. When the county opened its beaches, most parking in Anna Maria remained closed and Holmes Beach continued closure of all beach access, on-street and right of way parking. Over the holiday weekend, May 23-25, the Episcopal Church of the Annunciation in Holmes Beach allowed parking in its lot and posted attendants who accepted donations from motorists who took advantage of the convenience — and the proximity to the Manatee Public Beach. “We’re hoping it helps us to recover some of our losses during this time,” congregant/parking attendant Judy Bennett said May 23. But HBPD officers still had their hands full with people parking illegally in private lots. Police Chief Bill Tokajer said May 23 many vehicles were ticketed for illegal parking, and some businesses had violators towed. Additionally, he said the day started with a stolen An HBPD patrol officer stops May 23 to talk with vehicle chase into Bradenton, and there were people Manatee County code enforcement officers, who reporting items stolen from unlocked vehicles. were called out to monitor parking at the Manatee “It’s been very, very busy,” Tokajer said. Public Beach. Islander Photo: ChrisAnn Allen And he said he was concerned with the number of people on the public beach. concerns over the spread of the novel coronavirus. “There were too many people,” Tokajer said May During that time, county beach parking lots were 23 amid the crush of holiday weekend revelers. “People barricaded and most other parking areas in Holmes were not social distancing. There were just too many Beach and Anna Maria had temporary “no parking” people for that to be a feasible reality.”
RED BARN FLEA MARKET HAS COOL AIR CONDITIONING Swimmers take a dip in Tampa Bay with the Sunshine Skyway Bridge in the distance May 23 at Bayfront Park, 316 N. Bay Blvd., Anna Maria. Manatee County placed signs in the park to remind people to follow COVID-19 safety guidelines. Islander Photo: ChrisAnn Allen
Tables are spread 6 feet apart May 23 as people line up outside Ginny’s and Jane E’s Cafe and Coastal Store, 9807 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria. Islander Photo: ChrisAnn Allen In the courtyard at Blue Marlin Seafood Restaurant May 23, a waiter serves a couple seated outside as musicians and others await the evening’s entertainment. The open dining area is behind the restaurant on Bridge Street in Bradenton Beach. Islander Photo: Ryan Paice
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Island happenings
Page 10 THE ISLANDER | islander.org May 27, 2020 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................
Welcome to the board nancy deal, left, and nancy flynn, smile May 20, following their election to the anna Maria island Historical Society board of directors. the historical society operates a museum, 402 Pine ave., anna Maria, where dean and flynn, both of Holmes Beach, are docents. dean previously served on the board and flynn is new to the post. for more information, call the museum at 941-7780492. islander courtesy Photo: Valerie H. Wilson
Anna Maria Island Privateers plan ‘One Night in Tortuga’ Pirates will be gathering in Cortez. The Anna Maria Island Privateers’ “One Night in Tortuga” party will be 7-11 p.m. Saturday, July 25, at the Seafood Shack, 4110 127th St. W., Cortez. The gala was planned earlier in the year but postponed due to the spread of the new coronavirus. Tickets to the gala are $50. Attendees will find music, dancing, raffles, merchants, a silent auction, food and grog in the Neptune
Room. Silent auction packages include fishing charters, outdoor gear, sports memorabilia, salon services, box seats to a Rays game, a weekend holiday on Anna Maria Island and a “Privateer booze basket.” Proceeds will benefit the Privateers’ scholarship fund. For more information, go online to amiprivateers. org.
Island Gallery West to open
Island Gallery West planned to open to the public Wednesday, June 3, with limited hours. Hours will be 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Wednesday-Sunday at the gallery, 5368 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. IGW closed in March to curb the spread of the novel coronavirus and, during what would have been its busiest season of the year, shifted to promoting artists on its website and social media accounts. “It will be our protocol to maintain social distancing at checkout and we require visitors and staff to wear masks,” read an announcement from IGW. Additionally, IGW will limit occupancy to 25% capacity. “We appreciate your patronage and understanding as we navigate these uncharted times,” the announcement said. IGW also is accepting applications from artists interested in joining the coop. For more information, call IGW at 941-778-6648 or go online to islandgallerywest.com.
Artists’ Guild Gallery to open
The Artists’ Guild of Anna Maria Island plans to open its gallery doors Tuesday, June 2. AGAMI closed the gallery in March due to the spread of the new coronavirus and shifted to virtual programming. The gallery will be open 11 a.m.-3 p.m. TuesdaySaturday. An announcement said visitors should wear masks and maintain social distancing. The gallery is at 5414 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. For more information, call the gallery at 941-7786694.
Driving that boat… the anna Maria island Privateers put out a request for a rear axle for the Skullywag, their “float boat” built on a 1984 Blue Bird School Bus with an international Harvester chassis. the Privateers’ facebook page contains vehicle details and a request: “We are in need of the whole rear end, not just parts… if you know or have of heard of someone who might be able to help us, please email captain@amiprivateers.org or call 931-639-0986.” islander file Photo
Signal safety a notice, offered by the anna Maria island chamber of commerce, informs customers about precautions against the spread of the novel coronavirus taken by a business. the chamber made the notices available May 21 and offered to customize them. for more information, contact the chamber at 941-7781541 or info@amichamber.org. islander courtesy image
Maritime museum still closed
The Florida Maritime Museum in Cortez remained closed the week of May 25, as were other buildings and parks under the supervision of the Manatee County Historical Resources Department. The museum, 4415 119th St. W., Cortez, also canceled all scheduled and events until further notice. For more, call FMM at 941-708-6120.
Submit social news to news@islander.org. Please, include time, date and location for events, as well as a contact name and phone number for publication. And, thanks for sharing!
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Island happenings
May 27, 2020 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 11 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................
Center fitness classes resume
The Center of Anna Maria Island plans to resume its fitness classes Monday, June 1. The fitness facility opened May 20. The center will limit class size to comply with social distancing and other public health guidelines during the COVID-19 pandemic. Also, the center planned to schedule breaks between fitness classes to sanitize the space and equipment. The center is at 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria. For more information, call the center at 941-7781908.
Summer camp begins June 1
a detail from the cover of “the Wife.” islander courtesy image
Trolleys on reduced schedule
The fare-free Anna Maria Island trolley continues on limited service, with reduced hours. MCAT’s reduced hours and routes include: • Bus and trolley services end daily at 7 p.m.; • Buses along Route 3 — the Manatee Avenue/ State Road 64 corridor — operate with frequency reduced from 20-minute to 60-minute intervals; • Trolley service is suspended on Sundays; • The Longboat Key shuttle service is suspended. MCAT also continues to maintain several measures to limit the virus’ spread: • Staggered seating to enforce social distancing of at least 6 feet; • Loading passengers through the rear entrance of transit vehicles to reduce exposure to drivers; • Hand sanitizer provided; • Bus and trolley interiors cleaned daily and during layovers. MCAT also screens drivers daily for symptoms. Transit riders can contact MCAT at 941-749-7116 or mymanatee.org/departments/mcat.
The Center of Anna Maria Island will launch 10 weeks of summer camp June 1. The center, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria, extended the number of weeks offered in the “Summer My Way” camp, as well as hours — 8 a.m.-6 p.m. weekdays. Camp themes change weekly and each week concludes with a “Fantastic Friday” with special activities, treats and possibly field trips. The registration fee for each camper is $25. The weekly camp cost is $145 for center members and $165 for nonmembers. The center also will offer a specialty program — drama camp — for $240. The camp will be 9 a.m.noon July 13-24. A teen camp also is planned but details were not available. For more information, call the center at 941-7781908.
Island librarian leads book talk
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
KIDS & FAMILY
GOOD TO KNOW
LOOKING AHEAD ON AMI
SAVE THE DATES
“The Wife: A Novel of Psychological Suspense” by bestselling author Alafair Burke will be the focus of a videoconference book club discussion. The discussion, led by Callie Hutchison of the Island Library, will be at 10 a.m. Thursday, June 4, via Zoom. Participants can register by emailing Hutchison at callie.hutchison@mymanatee.org. Readers also can checkout “The Wife” from the Hoopla Digital service for computers, tablets and smartphones. Due to the coronavirus pandemic, Manatee County public libraries remained closed to the public as of May 25. The library system may offer curbside pickup of materials in early June, followed by an opening to limited capacity later in the month. Meanwhile, librarians encouraged the use of digital tools.
The Islander Calendar LOOKING AHEAD ON AMI
May 30, Anna Maria Island Privateers Kids Day. CANCELED
Oct. 17, Bayfest, Anna Maria.
SPORTS
LOOKING AHEAD OFF AMI June 16-July 31, ArtCenter Manatee all-media juried exhibit, Bradenton.
LOOKING AHEAD OFF AMI Oct. 23, Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce Golf Tournament, Bradenton.
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Sunday, June 21, Father’s Day. Saturday, July 4, Fourth of July. Monday, Sept. 7, Labor Day. Saturday, Oct. 31, Halloween. Sunday, Nov. 1, daylight saving time ends. Tuesday, Nov. 3, general election. Wednesday, Nov. 11, Veterans Day. Thursday, Nov. 26, Thanksgiving.
GET LISTED
Send announcements for The Islander calendar to calendar@ islander.org. The deadline for listings is the Wednesday before the publication date. Please include the date, time, location and description of the event, as well as a phone number for publication.
Click! The Islander welcomes news of the milestones in readers’ lives. Send notices — along with contact info — to news@islander.org.
Page 12 THE ISLANDER | islander.org May 27, 2020 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................
Stocking up for storms An islander’s checklist for stockpiling for the Atlantic hurricane season
Must have H20 and more
Keeping keepsakes, papers
Cleaning and clearing
Prepping the ‘kitchen’
Outfitting the toolbox
Pet-friendly packing
For health and hygiene
For comfort, convenience
Kid-friendly packing
Ready-to-wear fashion
For 411, 911
Add items, notes:
❒ Water in small bottles. ❒ Water in gallon containers. ❒ Individual-serving beverages. ❒ Instant coffee. ❒ Tea bags.
❒ Nonperishable foods, especially ready-to-eat or easy to prepare items — and comfort foods. ❒ Can opener. ❒ Cooking pot or pan. ❒ Utensils. ❒ Scissors. ❒ Plates. ❒ Grill. ❒ Grill tools. ❒ Self-starting charcoal. ❒ Sterno. ❒ Matches. ❒ Fire extinguisher. ❒ Aluminum foil. ❒ Plastic bags.
❒ Face masks. ❒ Medications. ❒ Mosquito repellent. ❒ Sunscreen. ❒ Toiletries, bath gear. ❒ Aspirin. ❒ Adhesive bandages. ❒ Germicidal handwipes. ❒ Tweezers. ❒ Thermometer. ❒ Latex gloves.
❒ Jeans. ❒ Shorts. ❒ T-shirts. ❒ Sunglasses. ❒ Eyeglasses. ❒ Close-toed boots. ❒ Flip-flops. ❒ Rain gear. ❒ Umbrella. ❒ Nightwear.
❒ Birth certificates. ❒ Passports. ❒ Wills. ❒ Insurance documents. ❒ Photographs. ❒ Water-tight box.
❒ Wrench. ❒ Hammer. ❒ Pliers. ❒ Assorted nails. ❒ Dust mask. ❒ Pocket knife. ❒ Flashlights. ❒ Signal flare. ❒ Extension cords. ❒ Hatchet. ❒ Work gloves. ❒ Trash bags. ❒ Tarp. ❒ Duct tape. ❒ Duct tape. ❒ More duct tape.
❒ Sleeping bag. ❒ Blankets. ❒ Lawn chairs. ❒ Games. ❒ Toys. ❒ Reading materials. ❒ Paper. ❒ Pencil. ❒ Candles. ❒ Lanterns. ❒ Toilet paper.
❒ Battery-powered radio. ❒ Earbuds. ❒ Batteries. ❒ Whistle. ❒ Smartphone. ❒ Solar battery charger. ❒ Road maps. ❒ Cash. ❒ Coins. ❒ Checkbook.
Storm Avengers series Look to the June 3 issue for the second installment of the islander’s 2020 Storm avengers series, containing more information about preparing for hurricane season. to advertise in the series, contact the islander’s advertising director, toni Lyon, at toni@islander.org.
❒ Disinfectant. ❒ Chlorine bleach. ❒ Medicine dropper. ❒ Plastic bucket with lid. ❒ Rags. ❒ Sponges.
❒ Kennel. ❒ Medications. ❒ Litter box. ❒ Vaccination certificates. ❒ Collar with tag. ❒ Water bowl. ❒ Food. ❒ Muzzle if needed. ❒ Can opener. ❒ Toys. ❒ Blankets. ❒ Plastic bags. ❒ First aid supplies ❒ Care instructions. ❒ Photos of your pets.
❒ Candies or other treats. ❒ Comfort blankets. ❒ Cereal. ❒ Wipes. ❒ Pedialyte. ❒ Juice boxes. ❒ Toys. ❒ Games. ❒ Coloring sets. ❒ Walkie-talkies.
❒ _______________________________ ❒ _______________________________ ❒ _______________________________ ❒ _______________________________ ❒ _______________________________ ❒ _______________________________ ❒ _______________________________ ❒ _______________________________ ❒ _______________________________ ❒ _______________________________
Home | Flood | Business Auto | Boat | Life 941-778-2253 | thinkwaller.com
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May 27, 2020 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 13 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................
Anna Maria anticipates soft opening for city pier in June By chrisann allen islander reporter
Ready? Set? Almost. Don’t load up the fishing gear just yet. “They are putting the finishing touches on the pier,” Anna Maria Mayor Dan Murphy told The Islander May 22. “It’s just about done.” The mayor said he planned to prepare a proposal for a soft opening for the new Anna Maria City Pier, 101 Bay Blvd., including a date, to be presented to the city commission at its next meeting at 6 p.m. Thursday, May 28. The meeting will be held by teleconference. People can phone in for the meeting by following instructions in the meeting agenda posted to the city website at cityofannamaria.com. Murphy said posts along the pier are being prepped for walkway lighting and workers are finishing the bathrooms. Also, air conditioning and security cameras were installed along with benches and a new sign. Fish cleaning stations were on order and cable was to be pulled and a modem installed by the end of the month, according to Murphy. He also said signs will be placed to remind people
Work continues May 21 on the new anna Maria city Pier, 101 Bay Blvd., as construction odds-and-ends are wrapped up. the city now plans to open the pier in June. islander Photo: chrisann allen
to social distance. Previously, the mayor said the city hopes to have the restaurant and bait shop open in late 2020 or early 2021. The city commission voted May 14 to approve the bid from the Ugly Grouper restaurant, 5704 Marina
Bradenton Beach utility plan jumps to Gulf Drive By ryan Paice islander reporter
Bridge Street won’t be the only Bradenton Beach roadway to benefit from buried utilities. City commissioners voted 5-0 May 21 to direct city attorney Ricinda Perry to work with CDM Smith to piggyback a Belleair Beach contract and bury utilities along a limited stretch of Gulf Drive. The vote also directed Perry to seek a cost estimate from Florida Power & Light for the project. The motion included paying CDM Smith up to $7,000, which falls into FPL’s permitting queue. The process to ground the utilities on Bridge Street took nearly five years, but Mark Porter, senior utilities coordinator for CDM Smith, said his company can reduce the time frame on Gulf Drive. Work to transfer the above-ground utility lines to underground — funded by the city’s community redevelopment agency — began in April and the switch to the new system began the week of May 11. City officials also want to bury utilities along Gulf Drive using $2,000,000 in possible state money. The appropriation passed the Senate and House, but Gov. Ron DeSantis has until June 29 to give final approval for the funding. If DeSantis approves the appropriation, the city would need to meet with FPL to create a schedule and highlight sections of Gulf Drive where utilities would be buried. Mayor John Chappie said spending $7,000 now could put the city ahead of others in the permitting process.
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Commissioner Ralph Cole made the motion, and it was seconded by Commissioner Jan Vosburgh. Avenue B drainage improvements Bradenton Beach officials are eyeing Avenue B for improvements. Commissioners voted unanimously to direct city engineer Lynn Burnett to create final designs for a drainage improvement project. Work would involve installing a 4-foot-wide French drain infiltration system along the rights of way from 22nd Street North to 26th Street North, as well as remove driveway aprons along the roadway for infiltration trenches and restore them. Burnett recommended moving forward on a final design by June 30 so the city could begin the permitting process for construction. She did not provide a time frame for how long the permitting process may take. The city has yet to decide on a standard material to top the drainage trenches on Avenue B. Burnett had recommended sod as a baseline material instead because, she said, stone would leave the roadway dusty. Regardless, residents could choose stone or sod for the rights of way in front of their homes, and asphalt, concrete or brick pavers for driveway aprons. Burnett said work on Avenue B wouldn’t begin until after Thanksgiving. The work must be completed before March 20, 2021, in order for the city to receive 50% reimbursement from Swiftmud for the $222,000 project.
Drive, Holmes Beach, allowing the mayor to negotiate a lease for the restaurant at the T-end of the pier. The new pier was built to replace the old pier, which opened in 1911 but was closed after it was damaged by Hurricane Irma in September 2017. Construction started in 2018.
2 bid for BB library reno
The Tingley Memorial Library in Bradenton Beach needs a makeover. City officials opened bids May 18 for new library stairways and entrances, front and rear. • Sarasota-based Duncan Seawall submitted a $275,630 bid. • South Carolina-based Seamar Construction Group bid a base cost of $138,252, as well as options for added work for $24,741-$39,983. The city wants to replace the landing deck and stairs using composite decking. The new staircases would be built to comply with the U.S. Americans with Disabilities Act, which guarantees equal access for those with disabilities. The bequeath of Beulah Tingley, the library’s namesake, would fund the project. Bradenton Beach holds $415,931 from the bequeath in CD accounts, according to city treasurer Shayne Thompson. Mayor John Chappie said May 21 a committee consisting of Thompson, building official Steve Gilbert, BBPD Lt. John Cosby, public works director Tom Woodard and library board member Susan Hollywood will review bids at 10 a.m. Wednesday, May 27, in the library conference room. As of May 22, the library, as well as city hall across the parking lot, remained closed to the public due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The bids will be ranked and the committee’s recommendation will be made to city commissioners.
Page 14 THE ISLANDER | islander.org May 27, 2020 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................
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Gathering
Roser registering for worship
Roser Memorial Community Church will open the sanctuary for worship on Pentecost Sunday, which is May 31. The church is taking reservations for the service, which will begin at 10 a.m. Also, Roser asked people to arrive early to be seated, wear masks, socially distance and not gather in the narthex. “Worshipers are asked to remain in their appointed seats for the entire service and leave the sanctuary through the east doors when their row is asked to leave,” a notice said. People who are not healthy should not attend. For those who cannot attend or choose not to attend, the church will livestream services. For more information, call the church at 941-7780414 or go online to roserchurch.com.
CrossPointe distributes assistance checks
CrossPointe Fellowship distributed checks for island workers and others hit by financial hardship during the coronavirus pandemic. Distribution of more than $26,800 in community donations to All Island Denominations began the week of May 18 at CrossPointe, 8605 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. The money — $257.69 per check — was distributed to 104 qualified applicants, according to Sandy Watts, executive administrator at CrossPointe. To qualify for assistance, applicants had to be unemployed from an island business due to coronavirus and file for money by May 14. AID, established in 1982, unites the island churches — CrossPointe, the Episcopal Church of the Annunciation, Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, Harvey Memorial Community Church, Roser Memorial Community Church and St. Bernard Catholic Church — to help those in need and also holds special services. For more information, call CrossPointe at 941778-0719.
Obituaries
Tidings
REGULAR WORSHIP
Thomas ‘Tom’ F. Warda
Dr. Thomas “Tom” F. Warda, 89, died May 16, in his home on Anna Maria Island surrounded by love. He was born April 20, 1931. He received his doctor of dental surgery degree from the University of Illinois in 1955. For 38 years, he worked in Chicago in his privately owned practice as a dentist. He was a member of the AmeriWarda can Dental Association, Illinois State Dental Society and Chicago Dental Society. He also served as a captain in the U.S. Air Force. He was a loving husband and father who cherished his family. He married Eunice Kotowicz in 1958 and they loved to travel the world. Some of their favorite trips were to the Caribbean for dental conferences, Germany for their 40th anniversary with family and Poland to explore their ancestry. He was a commercial private pilot and boat captain. He spent many enjoyable years flying, sailing, golfing, playing tennis, swimming at the beach and cheering on the Illini in football and basketball. He loved making money in the stock market and enthusiastically shared his investing strategies with others. He was a lover of dogs and was particularly fond of his furry buddy, Misty. His family and friends always will remember him as a fun person who liked to toe the line with his humor. He will have military honors once the national cemetery in Sarasota is scheduling appointments again. A private, virtual memorial for family was to be held on Memorial Day. Brown & Sons Funeral Homes & Crematory 43rd Street Chapel is in charge of the arrangements. Donations may be sent to the Roser Food Pantry via roserchurch.com or the Florida Veterans Foundation COVID-19 support fund at helpflvets. org/covid-19-support/. Condolences may be made to www.brownandsonsfuneral.com. Dr. Warda is survived by his wife of 62 years, Eunice; son David and wife Jane; daughter Suzette and husband Torey DeGrazia; grandchildren Leslie and husband Matthew Kwilas, Lindsey and husband David Young, Mark, Alan, Jared DeGrazia, Veronica and husband Sean Scott, and Taryn DeGrazia; and great-grandchildren Mila, Alex, Ronin and Ryan.
Monday-Friday 8:30 a.m. — St. Bernard Catholic Church, 248 S. Harbor Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-4769. Saturday 4 p.m. — St. Bernard. Sunday 8:30 a.m. — St. Bernard. 9:30 a.m. — CrossPointe Fellowship, 8605 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-0719. 10 a.m. — Roser Memorial Community Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Information: 941-778-0414. ONLINE WORSHIP Sunday 9:30 a.m. — Church of the Annunciation, Facebook. 9:30 a.m. — Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, Facebook. 10 a.m. — Roser Memorial Community Church, roserchurch. com. 10 a.m. — Longboat Island Chapel, longboatislandchapel. org. 10 a.m. — Christ Church of Longboat Key, christchurchlbk. org.
Robert L. Wampler
Robert L. Wampler, 64, of Holmes Beach, died April 28 at Tidewell Hospice. He was born Dec. 27, 1955, in Harlingen, Texas to John and Sara Wampler. He met and married Debbie in Atlanta in 1978 and they moved to Anna Maria Island in 1979. He was the owner of Bluewater Tile Installation for more than 30 years. He was a kind and gentle soul Wampler who never met a stranger. He loved boating and fishing and taught many island visitors how to catch the big one. He was an organic gardener and loved helping neighbors with their gardens. He was a loving and giving friend to all. He will be missed by all who knew him. Donations in his memory may be made to St. Jude Childrenís Hospital online at www.stjude.org. Mr. Wampler is survived by his wife, Debbie; brother-in-law and sister-in-law Randy and Brenda Evans; brother-in-law and sister-in-law Don and Sandy Greer; nephew Jon Ryan Taylor, niece Krista Butler; and his good friend since high school, Jim Redman.
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Obituaries are offered as a community service in The Islander newspaper to residents and family of residents, both past and present, as well as to those people with ties to the island. Submit to news@ islander.org. Islander obituaries, including photo, are free. Paid obituaries can be discussed with advertising consultant Toni Lyon at 941-778-7978.
The Islander welcomes news of the milestones in readers’ lives. Submit notices and photographs, along with contact information, to news@islander.org.
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AME 5th-graders share memories, prepare for middle school leap By Brook Morrison islander reporter
Anna Maria Elementary’s car loop will fill with fifth-grade students and their families May 28 for a farewell. The first-ever “drive-thru” promotion ceremony will be 10 a.m.-noon at the “little school by the bay.” Fifth-graders and family will arrive to the campus, 4700 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, to say goodbye, return school computers and receive service and academic awards. The event is not for the public. “Our fifth-grade classes have accomplished many things beyond what normally would have transpired during the course of their final year here at AME,” said fifth-grade teacher Michele Costanzo. “And I’m hoping the memories will be remembered for experiences shared before COVID-19 and the unity we have shared despite it,” she added. AME closed for spring break and, with the spread of the novel coronavirus, students didn’t return when the vacation ended. Instead, they began distance-learning. At the end of the school year, AME’s fifth-graders traditionally attend an awards ceremony, but this year’s “will be unprecedented,” said fifth-grade teacher Mary Miller. As they marked the end of the school year and prepared for their promotion to middle school in Bradenton, some students reflected on the past and future.
anna Maria elementary third-grader Joseph croke and the solar oven he created at home to cook s’mores. the SteM project on solar energy was optional for students who were distance learning. islander Photo: courtesy aMe
Bridget Querrard’s 2014-15 aMe kindergarten class — now fifth-grade students — will enter middle school in august. islander Photo: courtesy Bridget Querrard
“What I will miss most about AME is the great teachers and the kindness they showed me,” fifthgrader Esabella Walker wrote in an email to The Islander. Fifth-grader Makena Corr said one of her fondest memories at AME is when she was in first-grade and her teacher was Toni Lashway, who is retiring this year. Makena recalled the fun she had earning “Lashway dollars” for acts of kindness or completing homework. “The best part was spending our earnings and we thought the most expensive prize was reading to the kindergartners for 20 Lashway dollars,” said Makena. AME fifth-grader Olivia Inda enjoyed the “annual field trip to the bay behind the school for estuary study and walking from school to the Gulf of Mexico to study turtle nests with Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch.” “I especially liked the Estuary Day, when we were allowed to wade into the bay and look for fish, crabs and starfish,” AME fifth-grader Heidi Querrard wrote in an email to The Islander. Heidi listed her “exceptional” memories from each year at AME, including “having lunch together”
with Lashway and “singing and playing sparkle” with fourth-grade teacher Pidge Barreda. AME fifth-grader Kate Stembridge said a standout memory is her first day of second-grade as a new student. Her teacher and class “were so welcoming that I immediately felt at ease and have loved the school ever since,” she said. “I’m going to miss playing dodgeball, kickball and all that PE stuff with all my friends and I’ll especially miss Mr. Wooten with all his art stuff,” Garrett Nock wrote in a text message to The Islander, referring to longtime art teacher Gary Wooten. Student Faith Owens said her elementary school years were a time for self-expression. “Like Dr. Seuss says, ‘Why fit in when you were born to stand out?’” she said. “Fifth-grade was my favorite year at AME,” said Alex Teich. AME parent Steven Cusack said his son Clancy was thankful for good times but ready for what the future holds. “I think he’s ready for middle school,” said Cusack.
Islander graduates from UT
Daniel Blair of Holmes Beach graduated May 9 from the University of Tampa, earning a bachelor of science degree in sport management. The virtual commencement ceremony included 1,752 undergraduate and graduate candidates, with remarks by university president Ronald Vaughn and others associated with the private school of 10,000 students.
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Times are tough for pets, too. It’s especially true for rescues and foster pets waiting for a family and a home during the safer-at-home orders. Please, join us and help wherever you can with adoption, food or funding. … or reach out to our partners at Moonracer No Kill Pet Rescue, Moonraceranimalrescue.com, 941-345-2441. Dropoff: The Islander, AMI Centre (by Walgreens) 3218 E. Bay Drive, Holmes Beach. 941-778-7978.
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The Islander welcomes announcements of scholastic achievements. Share honors, stories and photographs by emailing news@islander.org.
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Page 18 THE ISLANDER | islander.org May 27, 2020 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................
Fire commission increases 2020-21 assessment rate By ryan Paice islander reporter
Property owners in the West Manatee Fire Rescue district can expect a rate increase. WMFR commissioners voted 3-1 May 19 to raise assessment rates for the next fiscal year by 2.6% to meet a projected spike in costs. The fiscal year begins Oct. 1. Commissioner Al Robinson voted “no” and Commissioner David Bishop was absent with excuse. Current residential rates include a $190.57 base rate and an additional $0.1124 for every square foot over 1,000 square feet. The owner of a 2,000-squarefoot home would pay $302.97 in assessment costs. With the 2.6% increase, the base rate for residential buildings will be $195.53 with an additional $0.1153 cost for every square foot over 1,000. Residential property owners with a 2,000-square-foot home would pay $310.85. The district uses different rates for commercial
Streetlife
buildings, including a current $473.62 base rate and an additional $0.2051 for every square foot over 1,000. The owner of a 2,000-square-foot commercial space would pay $678.72. Under the new rates, the commercial base rate for assessments will increase to $485.94, with an additional $0.2104 for every square foot over 1,000. The owner of a 2,000-square-foot commercial space would pay $696.37 in assessment costs. The district began discussing an increase in April. Chief Ben Rigney May 19 presented commissioners with three options — no rate hike, a 2.6% increase or a 4% increase. Rigney told commissioners via Zoom that WMFR projects a $189,436 increase in expenditures in the next fiscal year. The 2.6% increase would raise the money needed to match costs. A 4% increase would result in a surplus. If the district abandons the rate hike, it would need
Staff reports
Island police reports
Anna Maria May 15, 300 block of Tarpon Street, noise. The Manatee County Sheriff’s Office dispatch received a complaint about loud noise at 1:35 a.m. The record said the complainant called at least twice about noise from a neighboring property but the deputy observed “the street was quiet.” May 15, 700 block of Gladiolus Street, suspicious vehicle. The MCSO dispatch center received a complaint at about 5:20 p.m. that a vehicle was parked in the driveway of an unoccupied dwelling. The home was found secure. May 16, 200 block of Fir Avenue, suspicious vehicle. The MCSO received a report of a suspicious vehicle at about 5:25 p.m. No additional information was available. May 16, 400 block of Magnolia Avenue, noise. The MCSO dispatch received a report of loud noise from a vacation rental at about 10:25 p.m. May 19, 300 block of Gulf Boulevard, theft. The MCSO received a report about 12:30 p.m. of an alleged theft of a garbage can. May 20, 800 block of North Shore Drive, disturbance. The MCSO responded to a report of a disturbance at about 9:15 p.m. The complainant said a man was acting erratic and aggressive. A deputy found the man on the beach and determined he had been drinking
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alcohol. A ride service was called. May 20, 700 block of North Shore Drive, vandalism. The MCSO received a complaint about vandalism. A property owner alleged a neighbor damaged property the night before. Anna Maria is policed by the MCSO. Bradenton Beach May 16, Circle K, 103 Gulf Drive S., larceny. An officer responded to a call from Circle K, where a man allegedly left on foot without paying for some beer. Officers searched the area but failed to find the man. BBPD polices Bradenton Beach. Cortez No new reports. MCSO polices Cortez. Holmes Beach May 13, 100 block of 52nd Street, theft. A man reported his unlocked vehicle was burglarized and a gun and ammunition taken. The Holmes Beach Police Department was reviewing footage from a surveillance camera. May 13, 100 block of 52nd Street, theft. A woman reported her skateboard stolen from her car. Prints were taken and placed into evidence. May 13, 3200 block of Sixth Avenue, theft. A man reported someone stole $20 in change and a bottle of cologne from the vehicle. He later reported an additional $5 in change stolen. May 13, 3100 block of Avenue F, theft. A man reported $6 stolen from his vehicle. A report was filed. May 13, 500 block of Manatee Avenue West, traffic. An HBPD officer observed a vehicle with an expired tag. Upon stopping the male motorist, the officer determined his license was suspended. He issued a notice to appear.
to dip into reserve funds, Rigney said. The district’s reserves were around $6,000,000 as of May 20. Commission Chair Randy Cooper and Commissioner Larry Jennis ranked the 4% increase as a first choice, with the 2.6% increase second. Commissioner George Harris preferred the 2.6% increase and the 4% increase was his least favored option. Robinson opposed raising the tax rate and listed the 2.6% and 4% increases as his second and third choices. As the second choice of three commissioners and the first choice of one, the highest ranked option was the 2.6% increase. Harris moved to certify the ranking and approve the 2.6% assessment increase for 2020-21. Jennis seconded the motion. The next meeting will be at 6 p.m. Tuesday, June 16, via Zoom. Directions to attend will be posted on the fire district’s website, www.wmfr.org.
May 13, 3700 block of Sixth Avenue, alcohol. An officer observed a woman drinking an alcoholic beverage in a park. When approached, she attempted to conceal the drink. She was issued a citation for consuming alcohol on public property. May 13, 3200 block of Sixth Avenue, information. A man reported someone rummaged through vehicles. Once car had a damaged door handle. An HBPD officer photographed the damage. May 14, Manatee Public Beach, 4000 Gulf Drive, theft. An officer was dispatched to the public beach on a complaint that a backpack was stolen. Two men reported the backpack went missing when they went for a swim. It contained four iPhones and an Apple Watch. A report was filed. May 14, Manatee Public Beach, 4000 Gulf Drive, trespass. Manatee County code enforcement officers contacted the HBPD to remove a man who was intoxicated and passed out on a picnic table. The officer issued a trespass warning and the man left on foot. May 15, 100 block of Sunset Lane, theft. A woman reported a roll of stamps ordered online stolen from her mailbox. She was referred to the postmaster. May 16, Publix, 3900 E. Bay Drive, criminal mischief. An HBPD officer was called to a vandalism in progress in the parking lot. A woman said she walked out of the store and a group of people near her car verbally assaulted her and one person kicked her vehicle. The group left when the HBPD was called. The juveniles were apprehended by the Bradenton Beach Police Department and a statement was taken from the person who kicked the car. May 17, Waterline Resort Marina & Beach Club, 5325 Marina Dr., disturbance. The police were alerted to a noise disturbance from a room at the resort. An officer found the altercation was verbal and no charges were filed. PLeaSe, See stReetlIFe, neXt Page
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Man arrested for alleged home beer burglary
A man with no address of his own entered a home in Bradenton Beach, stole a beer and landed in jail. An officer from the Bradenton Beach Police Department “observed” a Manatee County Sheriff’s Office deputy conduct a warrant check May 12 for a suspicious person and responded to the scene, according to a BBPD report. Upon arrival, the BBPD officer identified Randy Shakinas, a homeless man suspected of entering a BraShakinas denton Beach home and stealing a can of beer without permission. The incident was captured by a nearby surveillance camera. Shakinas allegedly admitted to entering the home and taking the beer and expressed remorse, “stating he would like to replace the beer and apologize to the homeowner,” according to the BBPD report. Shakinas was taken to the BBPD, where he signed a statement admitting to the felony burglary charge. He was arrested and taken to the Manatee County jail. Shakinas remained in custody as of May 21. — ryan Paice
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. STREETLIFE continued froM Page 19
May 19, 500 block of Manatee Avenue West, traffic. An officer received a license plate reader hit on a vehicle. Upon stopping the male motorist, the officer determined his license was suspended. The man was given a notice to appear and arranged transportation for himself and the vehicle. May 19, 3200 block of East Bay Drive, trespass, alcohol. Juveniles was trespassing on a patio and in the pool. One male was drinking alcohol and given a notice to appear and released. The group was removed from the property. May 19, 800 block of Manatee Avenue West, traffic. While on patrol, an officer activated his radar and tracked a male motorist driving 66 mph in a 35-mph zone. He was given a notice to appear for speeding. HBPD polices Holmes Beach. Streetlife is based on incident reports and narratives from the BBPD, HBPD and MCSO.
a worker from ajax Paving industries of florida inspects the work May 21 on a brace placed in the ground for drainage pipelines along cortez road. islander Photo: ryan Paice
Work on Cortez Road-119th St. pushes into December By ryan Paice islander reporter
Roadwork in the village of Cortez is going to linger for awhile longer than expected. The project on Cortez Road is now projected to continue for another seven months. Florida Department of Transportation communications specialist Brian Rick wrote in a May 20 email to The Islander that Ajax Paving Industries of Florida should finish the project by the end of the year. The DOT originally projected construction would end this summer, but then said “late fall.” The $5,000,000 road project involves realigning the intersection of Cortez Road and 119th Street West, improving stormwater drainage and adding lighting along the corridor. Rick said the project was delayed a month at the beginning due to public concern over a proposed detour from 119th Street West to Harbour Landings Drive, then 126th and 127th streets west to Cortez Road. During the down time, DOT created a new plan that included delaying work on the north side of Cortez Road at 119th Street West. The new plan also increased the number of construction phases from two to six, in turn increasing the contract time. “We added approximately four-six months of time to accommodate the new plans/work,” Rick said. In May, Ajax was excavating the south side of the roadway west of 119th Street West to install two drainage pipes. After Ajax installs the pipelines, the contractor will resurface the roadway and construct a new sidewalk. On the east side of the intersection, as of May 21, Ajax finished installing drainage pipes and was resurfacing the roadway and sidewalk.
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Rick said the contractor also was creating a new section for the end of 119th Street West to the east of where the current street intersects with Cortez Road. When that section is finished, the contractor will close and remove the old road. When Ajax finishes the south side of Cortez Road, crews will shift to the north side to finish realigning the intersection at 119th Street West. “We are still quite some time out from that happening,” Rick said. “At the end of the day, residents and visitors will have a considerably safer travel route,” he added.
RoadWatch
Eyes on the road
The Florida Department of Transportation and Manatee County posted the following notices: • State Road 684/Cortez Road at the Cortez Bridge: Crews will be working on the bridge. Motorists can expect intermittent east and westbound lane closures 9 p.m.-4 a.m. Sunday-Thursday, May 31-June 4. • State Road 64/Manatee Avenue over Perico Bayou and Palma Sola Bay: Crews are working on the bridges. Motorists can expect lane closures 7 p.m.-6 a.m. Completion will be in the fall. • Multiple locations in Bradenton Beach: A county pipeline replacement project continues. Impacted areas include Bay Drive South, Bridge Street, Church Avenue and Cortez Road. Expect construction in rights of way and increased truck traffic. For the latest road watch information, go online to fl511.com and swflroads.com or dial 511. — Lisa neff
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aMitW volunteers place eggs in handmade nests May 21 on the beach in anna Maria. the eggs were relocated from Holmes Beach due to an upcoming renourishment project that will pump fresh sand from offshore to the beach from 78th Street to Longboat Pass. islander Photo: courtesy aMitW
Nesting notes By ChrisAnn Allen
Sea turtles lag behind, shorebirds fill in action
People expect turtles to be slow. But this year, the sea turtles that nest on Anna Maria Island are moving slower than usual, according to Suzi Fox, Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring executive director. “We’re a little behind this time last year,” Fox said May 21. “But there is still plenty of time.” allen As of May 21, AMITW reported 34 loggerhead nests on island beaches within the Manatee County beach renourishment project zone, which extends from 78th Street in Holmes Beach south to Longboat Pass. On the same day in 2019, there were 51 nests reported islandwide.
a black skimmer squawks on the beach in Bradenton Beach. islander file Photo
Fox said the lower numbers could be due to the red tide crisis that overlapped with the 2018 nesting season. She said it was supposition on her part, and scientists would not know the effects of the 2018 red tide bloom until several more years of research are conducted. But based on the number of mature females — and loggerheads reach sexual maturity at about 35 years old — that died from red tide in 2018, nesting numbers could be lower in 2020. “It would be terrible if we lost that many of our girls to red tide,” Fox said. “Right now, there is no clear reason for low numbers. Hopefully, it picks up in June.” But Memorial Day weekend, the unofficial launch for summer on the island, closed out the first month of nesting. This year, with coronavirus restrictions recently lessened, revelers packed the beach the long weekend of May 23-25 and, now into the summer months, visitors to island beaches must share the shoreline with nesting shorebirds and sea turtles. This means cleaning up trash, filling in holes in the sand and removing beach gear, including chairs, canopies and inflatables at the end of the day, according to
aMitW volunteer shorebird monitor demi Harms, left, and executive director Suzi fox, observe a scoop of pre-nesting black skimmers May 23 on the beach in Holmes Beach. the pair placed signs warning beachgoers to steer clear of the birds. islander Photo: courtesy aMitW
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a summary shows hurricane season probability and numbers of named storms predicted from noaa’s 2020 atlantic hurricane season outlook. islander courtesy image
By Lisa Neff
Stockpiling for something
There was a week early in the coronavirus pandemic when my wife and I feared a major disruption in the food supply chain. Our city-bred survivalist instincts sent us shopping — online — to purchase $120 worth of freeze-dried vegetables and fruits. We added the goodies to an existing stockpile of other nonperishables — soups, tuna, ready-to-eat pastas, granola bars and wine — in a stash closet. But the local grocery stores stayed stocked for the most part and for the past month we’ve been getting our weekly fresh food needs from a neff drive-thru area market. So our stockpile remains undiminished, tucked away at the back of the closet. Now, with the arrival of the Atlantic hurricane season, our “COVID collection” will become the “hurricane collection.” The hurricane season extends June 1-Nov. 30 and late May is when the news media and local, state and federal governments emphasize storm readiness. The past three years, four hurricanes have made landfall in Florida, including Hurricane Michael, the first hurricane to make landfall in the United States as STORMS continued froM Page 1
The first named storm — tropical storm Arthur — formed May 16 off Florida’s east coast. As The Islander went to press May 25, local, state and federal emergency management teams were working on plans to deal with a hurricane during the COVID-19 crisis. “Natural disasters won’t wait,” said Carlos Castillo, acting deputy administrator for resilience at the Federal Emergency Management Agency. “Social distancing and other CDC guidance to keep you safe from COVID-19 may impact the disaster preparedness plan you had in place, including what is in your go-kit, evacuation routes, shelters and more,” he added.
a Category 5 since Hurricane Andrew in 1992. For the 2020 season, the National Weather Service predicts a 60% chance of an above-normal season, a 30% chance of a near-normal season and a 10% chance of a below-normal season. The outlook is for 13-19 named storms, but it only takes one storm to cause catastrophe for a community. So we should make notes about where we might go if a storm approaches. We should talk with family and coworkers about our plans. We should check to see that we have the latest storm apps on our phones and we have islander.org bookmarked on our computer browsers. We should make digital copies of our most important or necessary papers — think IDs, prescriptions and pet licenses — and precious photographs. We should set aside at least seven days of supplies, including food, water, medicine, cash, batteries,
blankets, clothing and, yes, face masks, as this year, we must consider the threat of a hurricane during a health crisis. And hopefully when the storm season ends, our unused “hurricane collection” will become the “camping collection.” In December, we’ll pack up our little Fiesta and drive to Myakka River or Oscar Scherer state park to pitch a tent and take long hikes in the scrub or forests sustained by snacks of freeze-dried raspberries and tart cherries. It will be our reward for staying safe at home.
FEMA was coordinating with the state emergency management team on how to handle evacuations and sheltering during a storm. Options might include ordering some people to shelter at home, creating shelters for people who test positive for the novel coronavirus and opening hotels as shelters. Manatee County in June will hold a “virtual town hall series” on hurricane preparation and also planned a “virtual media day” May 28, when emergency management chief Steve Litschauer will review government plans and discuss family preparedness. “This year, more than ever, we’re really stressing that people should know the strength of their homes and whether they can withstand an intense storm,”
Litschauer said in a news release. “If people live in older homes or mobile homes, they most definitely need to know where they’ll go if a storm is approaching. People need to evacuate tens of miles from home, not hundreds from home, as we saw in Hurricane Irma.” If severe weather approaches, county officials plan to hold video news conferences and, if the emergency operations center is activated, the county also will operate a media hotline for updates. Others with questions or concerns about severe weather can contact the county’s 311 call center. For an islander’s guide to stocking up for the storm season, go to page 12.
Did you know? The 2020 Disaster Preparedness Sales Tax Holiday will begin Friday, May 29, and extends through Thursday, June 4. Many items related to disaster preparedness are exempt from sales tax during this period. For more info, go online to floridarevenue.com.
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Page 22 THE ISLANDER | islander.org May 27, 2020 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................
A love story, 50 years of dolphin tracking in Sarasota Bay Sarasota Dolphin Research Program founder Blair Irvine, left, and dolphin catcher Robert Corbin, right, hold a bottlenose dolphin after it is fitted with the first tag design. It was deployed in 1970. Through tagging, they discovered a dolphin community that resides year-round in Sarasota Bay. Islander Courtesy Photos
By Cheryl Nordby Schmidt Special to The Islander
A half-century at the same job and many people might be bored. Not Randy Wells, director of the Chicago Zoological Society’s Sarasota Dolphin Research Program. In 1970, Wells was an Illinois transplant to Siesta Key, who was fascinated by marine animals. A chance encounter with Blair Irvine, a new researcher at Mote Marine Laboratory, led to Wells being a volunteer intern and then a part-time high school research assistant working with Irvine to study bottlenose dolphins at Mote Wells and in Sarasota Bay. “I had no idea the work I was doing as a teenager would become a 50-year career. There was no model for this kind of a position at the time I got started,” said Wells, now 66. “The ability to design and create a dolphin conservation research program, to be able to interact with such a fine team of staff, students and collaborators from around the world, and to be able to try to make a positive difference for the animals, is more than I could ever have hoped for back in high school.” On Oct. 3, 1970, Irvine started tagging dolphins as part of an unfunded pilot study to explore his interest in the lives of wild-ranging dolphins. Until then, most observations had been made on animals under human care. Irvine brought on Wells as his assistant. In 1974, Irvine, Wells and Michael Scott began work to fulfill a contract with the U.S. Marine Mammal Commission. Conservation managers wanted to make informed policy decisions and they needed to know more about wild dolphins’ movement and activities. On the program’s website, Irvine describes the early years like this: “The capture team consisted mostly of volunteers, using mostly borrowed equipment, and usually three boats. Radios were borrowed hand-held sets, one for each boat. At about 3 p.m. in the afternoon, all the batteries would fail, and we’d work for the rest of the day using hand signals between boats.” These days the Sarasota Dolphin Research Program has an annual budget of $1 million and is acclaimed for its research methods and discoveries. It is the longest-running study of a wild dolphin population on the planet. The staff of 13 are asked to participate in research projects all over the world. Wells, who has directed the program since 1977, manages a research team engaged in a set of projects that has expanded to other marine animals including whales, porpoises, sharks and rays, and advises and trains researchers from 43 countries. SDRP is preparing the next generation of conservation leaders: 41 master’s and 43 doctoral students have participated in its research and more than 425
Dolphin safety tips
• Never feed wild dolphins – it is harmful and illegal. • Reuse or share leftover bait. • Reel in your line if dolphins approach it. • Change locations if dolphins show interest in your bait or catch. • Release your catch quietly, away from dolphins. • Check your gear and tackle: prevent breakage and lost gear. • Use circle hooks and hooks that corrode. • Stay at least 50 yards away from wild dolphins. • Do not discard your fishing line overboard. Recycle it instead. • Stash your trash: wild dolphins might eat pieces of it. • Do not closely interact with wild dolphins, this includes but is not limited to touching/petting or swimming with wild dolphins or attempting any of these or other activities that may change the dolphin’s behavior. For more information and to donate to the Sarasota Dolphin Research Program, go online to sarasotadolphin.org.
undergraduate interns have trained in multimonth programs. Surveys to monitor identifiable dolphins, like the ones started in the 1970s but more systematically and with much better equipment, are performed 10 days a month. It is this meticulous, consistent tracking of dolphins and their activities that has made the program a success and a model for other researchers. And it has led to exciting discoveries. “The most important early finding of the program was that bottlenose dolphins live in long-term resident communities. Before we started the work, we had no idea,” Wells said. Researchers did not know if dolphins swam throughout the Gulf of Mexico, if they preferred shallow or deep water, if they moved with the seasons. But it turned out Sarasota Bay provided the food and habitat dolphins needed all year, so they stayed and lived for generations together. Subsequently, multigenerational year-round dolphin communities have been found in other bodies of water worldwide. Fifty years ago, tagging was key to the dolphin surveys but, since 1976, photographic identification has been the main tool for compiling information on individual dolphins. The markings, nicks and notches on dorsal fins, are identifiers, along with scars from tags or injuries from boats and fishing lines. Each dolphin has a name or a number and watching them grow from calves to juveniles to adults makes it easier to pick out individuals from the research boats. There are 170 resident dolphins in Sarasota Bay, spanning as many as five concurrent generations. The oldest is FB54, a 49-year-old female first tagged in 1975. There have been 5,542 individual dolphins identified along Florida’s central west coast since 1970 and 161,847 sightings of those dolphins. One dolphin, Killer, was spotted the most: 1,614 times. Nicklo, the oldest observed, lived to be 67. Both were females. The numbers represent more than just a database. The SDRP has shown dolphins live about twice as long as originally thought. A single female can produce 11 calves or more during a 42-year reproductive lifespan. They feed and socialize in various combinations, including mother and calf groups and male pairs that bond their whole lives once they reach sexual maturity. And some of the whistles dolphins use to signal each other have distinct characteristics. These “signature whistles” help the dolphins identify each other, making them, in effect, the dolphin’s name. Kim Bassos-Hull, a senior biologist and research assistant who has been involved with the program the past 30 years, said Sarasota Bay dolphins are adapters. As the human population, boat and fishing traffic have grown, “they have adapted to being urban dolphins.” She was a marine biology student in 1990 at the University of California-Santa Cruz’s Long Marine Laboratory, where Wells was working as an adjunct professor. “He asked me if I wanted to do field research in Florida,” and that was the start of their collaboration. “It’s been a great journey and I feel very fortunate to have worked for the program and to have Randy as a mentor,” Bassos-Hull said. “He is really good at
Over the years, researchers have worked to reduce the size of dolphin tags and increase hydrodynamics. In this 2014 photo, a dolphin leaps while wearing the latest tag design. Some tags float and have radio transmitters so researchers can easily collect them when, after several hours, they release from the dolphin.
seeing the big picture and bringing together many different collaborators from both the U.S. and internationally.” “I have met so many cool people from all over the world.,” she said, and she has been “able to help on several incredible projects over the years.” Since 1992, the SDRP has been based at Mote, on City Island in Sarasota, with office, lab, storage and dock space. Funding comes in a variety of ways, Wells said, from several organizations and individuals. A Sarasotabased nonprofit, the Dolphin Biology Research Institute, was established in 1982 to support the fleet of small boats, vehicles, computers, cameras, and other field equipment. The Chicago Zoological Society began operating the program in 1989. A current 5-year, $1 million grant awarded to the zoological society in 2017 by the Sarasota-based Charles and Margery Barancik Foundation covers core activities: the dolphin surveys to monitor the local population and surveys of fish that dolphins prey on. And the program is always grateful for donations from the public. To commemorate the SDRP 50th anniversary, and in the wake of COVID-19 social distancing guidelines, Wells will be participating in two virtual events. The first will be May 28 at 1 p.m., when Wells will be interviewed for a “Deep Dive” with the Sarasota Bay Estuary Program, which can be viewed on YouTube or on the estuary program’s Facebook page. And at 3 p.m. May 29, he will appear on “The Daily Dose,” part of a University of Florida program where scientists visit classrooms to share research with students and teachers. The livestream question and answer event is open to the public and participants can register online.
For more on Randy Wells and his dolphin studies: Cheryl Nordby Schmidt’s story continues June 3.
May 27, 2020 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 23 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................
Summer break begins, but no letting up on spring tarpon run By capt. danny Stasny islander reporter
For yet another week, tarpon are the main attraction for anglers who reside or make the trek to the Tampa Bay area. Anna Maria Island — a prime destination for both the anglers and the tarpon — are providing focus for the next few weeks. Schooling tarpon are being spotted along the beaches, with most schools Stasny containing 20-40 fish, although larger schools of 100 or more silver kings are roaming near the Gulf of Mexico shoreline. Fishing in the passes around Anna Maria Island, Egmont Key and Longboat Key is proving results especially during the hill tides that occurred during the full and new moons. The passes can be a good bet, as long as you don’t mind crowded conditions. If fishing alongside or near 30-40 boats isn’t your cup of tea, try patrolling along the beaches to find schools of fish that aren’t so spooky. Moving to the flats, catch-and-release snook fishing remains consistent in areas where the water quality is good. Clear water and swift tidal flow, combined with some mangroves, lush grass and oyster beds, is the perfect recipe when hunting snook. Put all of these together and you should find some fish. Casting live shiners is working well in these areas, including for a redfish bite. They’ve been found in these same areas and, if you’re lucky a couple reds will stumble across your bait. Fishing deeper grass areas is providing good action on spotted seatrout. For others it seems the tail-end incoming tide is producing the best bite. Free-lined shiners work well, especially if you find an area with a large concentration of fish. If you’re struggling, switch to a soft plastic on a jig head and drift so you can cover more area. On my Southernaire charters, I’ve been leaving the tarpon behind and taking clients to the tranquility of fishing in the backcountry. With the tarpon craze, everyone has cleared out of the shallows to pursue bigger and better things. I see this as an opportunity to relax a little without having to beat the crowds to the snook and trout spots and, with less pressure back there, the catch-and-release snook and trout fishing is pretty darn good. Both species are cooperating nicely. Snook hookups are 20-30 inches. As for the trout, I’m catching a lot of slot-size fish and actually quite a few over slot. I guess the closure is working. Capt. Warren Girle is concentrating his efforts on tarpon. Patrolling the coastline from Egmont Key south to Longboat Key, Girle is hunting on any given day. Casting live pass crabs to approaching schools of tarpon is Girle’s preferred method for attracting hook ups. Most catches are 75-100 pounds, with some larger specimens mixed in. Capt. Aaron Lowman is targeting catch-and-release snook on days with big tides and good water flow. These are the best days to target linesiders, according to Lowman. Casting live freelined shiners along
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Jump for joy capt. david White of anna Maria charters takes the reel May 16 in a battle with a silver king. He hooked the fish on a crab while running schools of tarpon off the beach of anna Maria island. He said the hookups were running about 130 pounds of excitement. islander Photo: dustin Moore
mangrove shorelines, where turtle grass and other sea- and Stock isn’t afraid to mess with them, too. These grasses flourish, is resulting in action. On some days, large predators provide some great catch-and-release as many as 50 snook are being caught and released, action, as well as good trophy videos. Send tales and photos to news @islander.org. with sizes ranging 18-30 inches. While targeting the snook, catch-and-release redfish are being found here and there. Fishing slightly deeper grass flats away from the mangroves is proving to be good for spotted seatrout. Freelined live shiners or artificial — soft plastics — are resulting in a bite. Fishing even slightly deeper, on local wrecks and reefs in Tampa Bay, is proving to be good for Spanish mackerel and mangrove snapper. Capt. Jason Stock is banking on blackfin tuna and amberjack while fishing offshore on the wrecks and Date AM HIGH PM HIGH AM LOW PM LOW Moon reefs where bait schools are present. He’s finding good May 27 2:42p 2.6 — — 11:07p -0.3 — — numbers of the blackfins, as well as AJs. Live bait May 28 3:44p 2.4 — — — — — — offerings working well, but artificials also get the job May 29 8:07a 1.6 5:05p 2.1 12:04a -0.2 11:04a 1.5 done. On a recent charter, Stock said they hooked up May 30 8:28a 1.7 6:44p 1.9 1:01a 0.0 1:02p 1.2 1st May 31 8:53a 1.8 8:25p 1.8 1:53a 0.2 2:30p 0.9 a 60-pound amberjack on a surface popper. June 1 10:00a 1.6 6:45p 2.0 1:41a -0.2 12:57p 1.5 Moving inshore, Stock is targeting the silver kings June 2 10:08a 1.7 8:28p 2.0 2:40a -0.1 2:38p 1.2 along the beaches. Large sharks like hammerhead and June 3 10:25a 1.8 9:52p 2.0 3:31a 0.0 3:46p 0.8 AM City Pier tides; Cortez high tides 7 minutes later — lows 1:06 later bull sharks are following the tarpon along the beaches
Fishing tip! If you hook a bird: Reel, remove and release!
Anna Maria Island Tides
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Page 24 THE ISLANDER | islander.org May 27, 2020 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................
I S L A N D E R C L A S S I F I E D S ITEMS FOR SALE
ANNOUNCEMENTS
FISHING
TWO LEATHER BLUE chairs, $25 each, three painted, wooden tables, $15 each. In Anna Maria. 904-501-6094.
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.
LocaL fiSHing guide for hire. Wanna catch more fish, have better bait, learn the local waters? Your boat, my knowledge. call nelly, 40 years local fishing experience. 941896-2915.
ANTIQUE PARTNER DESK: All wood, $1,000. See at The Islander office, 3218 E. Bay Drive, Holmes Beach. 941-778-7978.
WANTED: YOUR OLD cellphone for recycling. Deliver to The Islander, 3218 E. Bay Drive, Holmes Beach.
ANTIQUE OFFICE chairs: Perfect for eclectic dining set. Circa 1950 from Anna Maria City Hall. The Islander newspaper, 3218 E. Bay Drive, Holmes Beach. 941-778-7978.
AERIAL PHOTOS of Anna Maria Island. View and purchase online: www.jackelka.com. 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.
FREEBIE ITEMS FOR SALE 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)
ESTATE SALES ESTATE SALE: 9:30 a.m.-3 p.m. Friday, May 29. 653 Key Royale Drive, Holmes Beach. (You must wear a mask.) Disney memorabilia and furniture including bar stools, dinette and figurines. TV, sofa bed and loveseat, leather lift chair approximately seven weeks old, mirrors, dining room table and chairs, two pair of twin bed sets, king bed set, patio furniture, garage items including fishing poles, kitchenware, linens and decorative accessories. A nice sale! See pictures at estatesales. net. Sale conducted by Palma Sola Sales. Numbers given out at 8 a.m.
More ads = more readers in the islander.
Sandy’s Lawn Service Inc. ESTABLISHED IN 1983
Residential & Commercial Full-service lawn maintenance. Landscaping ~ Cleanups Hauling ~ Tree Trimming. LICENSED & INSURED
Paradise Improvements
941.792.5600
Kitchen and Bath Remodeling Specialist Replacement Doors and Windows
PETS
Andrew Chennault
FULLY LICENSED AND INSURED Island References Lic#CBC056755
HELP RESCUED PETS! Volunteer, foster, computer help needed! Moonracer Animal Rescue. Email: moonraceranimalrescue@gmail.com.
CBC 1253471
RDI CONSTRUCTION INC. Residential & Condo Renovations Kitchens • Bath • Design Service Carpentry • Flooring • Painting Commercial & Residential
TRANSPORTATION 2014 EZ-GO GOLF cart: Three-rows seats, gas, custom wheels. Candy apple red. $7,950. 813781-7562.
References available • 941-720-7519
AdoptA-Pet
BOATS & BOATING BIMINI BAY SAILING: Small sailboat rentals and instruction. Day. Week. Month. Sunfish, Laser, Windrider 17 and Precision 15. Call Brian at 941685-1400.
Honey is 5 years old. She is up to date with vaccinations, spayed and looking for a loving family. To meet this sweetie, call Lisa Williams at 941-345-2441 or visit The Islander office in Holmes Beach. For more about pet adoption or to adopt Honey, visit moonraceranimalrescue.com.
WANTED: DOCK SPACE/boat lift/boat slip to rent or buy for 23-foot boat on Anna Maria Island. 203247-6405.
PropertyWatch
Island real estate transactions
SPonSored BY
I T C H A G A R S A I S H A M Y S T
ANSWERS TO MAY 27 PUZZLE
N O H O
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O L D C O L C O U A T M C E A P N O O P U S T N W A M O R A R T N D D I Y A N E N F O C U H E N
L O A V E S T O R R E S E M O T E
S T I C K E M U P
P O B O Y A P E
B L I A D S S B D E C A A R R E A
A M R E Y A A L P O F E E L A B E R A F B U L A N O G E R E E N R A Z E R S T C H I I D L N A S D Y A
D F L A T
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N E W S C L E L I C U P I N G A R B E M A N A R G G I L A E L K I A N A E C A P D A
T E D C R U Z
H A R A M O E N D E B D O I A G M U S Y O R K U A N R G E S E T H W R O H I L O P E M E S
A R A B S
P R E R E Q O N L A T E
A E I O U
G O L D S T R I K E
By Jesse Brisson
E L O I
622 Hampshire Lane, Holmes Beach, a 2,302 sfla / 3,045 sfur 3bed/3bath/3car canalfront pool home built in 1967 on a 10,500 sq ft lot was sold 04/30/20, Davis to Czerniecki for $1,295,000; list $1,349,000. 522 68th St., Holmes Beach, a 1,400 sfla / 1,898 sfur 3bed/2bath/1car canalfront pool home built in 1969 on a 8,800 sq ft lot was sold 04/30/20, 522 68th Street LLC to Craig for $775,000. 870 N. Shore Drive, Anna Maria, a 1,626 sfla N4bed/2bath duplex built in 1970 on a 5,300 sq ft lot Awas sold 04/30/20, Wolfe to Mist Investments USA NLLP for $620,000. A 3803 E. Bay Drive, Unit 8, Sunbow Bay, Holmes Beach, a 1,803 sfla / 1,992 sfur 3bed/2bath condo with S shared pool built in 1977 was sold 04/29/20, Gitt to T YRezoagli for $417,900; list $419,900. 5400 Gulf Drive, Unit 20, 5400 Gulf Drive N ECondominium, Holmes Beach, a 810 sfla / 838 sfur 1bed/1bath condo with shared pool built in 1964 was Msold 04/28/20, Henriksen to Montefinese for $305,000; Ylist $319,500. B 1801 Gulf Drive N., Unit 215, Runaway Bay, A Bradenton Beach, a 691 sfla 1bed/1bath condo with D shared pools built in 1978 was sold 05/01/20, Dinatale Fto Gallo for $250,000; list $289,000. Jesse Brisson, broker/associate at Keller Williams U on the Water, can be reached at 941-713-4755. S
I E O A N S I E C D U A L P R E R O T I N I D E D E O F P E R O N U D O G E
HELP WANTED REPORTER WANTED: Full- to part-time. Print media, newspaper/journalism 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, 941-447-6389. 941545-6688. 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. Licensed and insured. 941-744-7983. 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. KLean MoVeS: BeSt movers in aMi. Small moves, long distance and local deliveries. no job too big or too small. Senior discounts. 941-877-6580. ask for reggie. KleanMoves. com. HoMe WatcH: cottage Watch & Services LLc. Scott carpenter, Veteran uSn- a.H.i.t. certified home inspector. Licensed/insured contractor/realtor. rates starting as low as $25. 941-780-7004.
Place classified ads online at www.islander.org
$YDLODEOH $We AMI CENTRE, 3218 E. BAY DRIVE, HOLMES BEACH 941 778-7978 • WWW.ISLANDER.ORG
PLACE CLASSIFIED ADS ONLINE AT WWW.ISLANDER.ORG
May 27, 2020 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 25 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................
I S L A N D E R C L A S S I F I E D S SERVICES Continued
HOME IMPROVEMENT Continued
RENTALS Continued
BUSINESS-TO-BUSINESS JD’s Window Cleaning looking for storefront jobs in Holmes Beach. I make dirty windows sparkling clean. 941-9203840.
ISLAND HANDYMAN: I live here, work here, value your referral. Refinish, paint. Just ask. JayPros. Licensed/insured. References. Call Jay, 941-9622874.
SWEET 2BR/2BA FOR all/part June through September. Holmes Beach. Great location. Walk to beach. 231-670-6697.
BEACH SERVICE air conditioning, heat, refrigeration. Commercial and residential service, repair and/or replacement. Serving Manatee County and the Island since 1987. For dependable, honest and personalized service, call Bill Eller, 941-7957411. CAC184228.
HANDYMAN AND PAINTING. No job too small. Most jobs just right. Call Richard Kloss. 941-2041162.
CONNIE’S LANDSCAPING INC. Residential and commercial. Full-service lawn maintenance, landscaping, cleanups, hauling and more! Insured. 941-778-5294.
LARRY’S BACK! SHELL delivered and spread. $55/yard. Hauling all kinds of gravel, mulch, topsoil with free estimates. Call Larry at 941-795-7775, “shell phone” 941-7200770. CORNERSTONE OUTDOORS: LANDSCAPE, installs, tree trimming, full-service lawn maintenance, cleanups, pressure washing. 941-2841568.
HOME IMPROVEMENT VAN-GO PAINTING residential/commercial, interior/exterior, pressure cleaning, wallpaper. Island references. Bill, 941-795-5100. www.vangopainting.net.
TILE -TILE -TILE. All variations of ceramic tile supplied and installed. Quality workmanship, prompt, reliable, many Island references. Call Neil, 941-726-3077. GRIFFIN’S HOME IMPROVEMENTS Inc. Handyman, fine woodwork, countertops, cabinets and wood flooring. Insured and licensed. 941-722-8792. BLINDS, SHUTTERS, SHADES: Motorization. 30 years on AMI. Call Keith Barnett, Barnett Blinds, 941-730-0516.
More ads = more readers in The Islander.
RENTAL MANAGEMENT AVAILABLE at discounted fees. 30 years’ local experience. Real Estate Mart, 941-356-1456. HOLMES BEACH: 2BR/2BA BEAUTIFULLY furnished, garage. Six-month availability. $1,750/ month plus utilities. No smoking, no pets. 941778-2824. ANNUAL 2BR/2BA apartment in Holmes Beach. Room for a boat. Laundry hookup. No pets. 941778-7039.
4BR/2BA WITH POOL and large sunroom, garage, walk to first bay beach. 703-5874675.
The Islander is Anna Maria Island’s longest running publication. It’s essential news for residents and visitors. Check out the website, islander.org.
CHRISTIE’S PLUMBING Family Owned and Operated since 1975
Residential -iÀÛ Vi
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LAWN & GARDEN
TWO ISLAND CONDOS available for rent: 2BR/2BA or 3BR/3BA. Call 262-705-0909 for information.
COZY COTTAGE: SANDPIPER Resort, Bradenton Beach. Perfect for a 55-plus. Newly remodeled, turnkey, great deck. Close to beach, pool and bay. 1BR/1BA, washer and dryer. $115,000. May do yearly rental. 941-251-4767, leave your number for callback.
Island Limousine and Airport Transportation
Prompt, Courteous Service U New Vehicles 941.779.0043
,IVERY )NSUREDs !IRPORT 0ERMITTED
55-PLUS TRAILER Estate: Bradenton. 2BR open kitchen, living room, screened-in porch, carport, close to the beach and shopping. Small dog or indoor cat. First, last and security deposit. Yearly lease. 413-320-1149. WANTED PET-FRIENDLY annual rental on Anna Maria Island. Prefer updated and spacious, at least 2BR/2BA or more. Wanting to start lease beginning of July/August. 214-854-6496. ANNUAL 2BR/2BA DUPLEX off Cortez. 3.5 miles to beach. Fenced yard, washer and dryer hookups, covered parking, non-smoking, pet friendly. $1,100/month. 941-721-8480. MondayFriday 9 a.m.-5 p.m., or email mehall@nclaimsadjusters.com. ANNUAL 2BR/2BA CONDO on second floor with bay views. Pool, tennis, cable and water included. $1,750/month. Island Vacation Properties, 941778-1000.
The Islander is essential news. Check out the website, islander.org.
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Web site: www.islander.org 3218 E. Bay Drive Holmes Beach FL 34217
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Page 26 THE ISLANDER | islander.org May 27, 2020 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................
Skimming AMI
by Bonner Joy
Who’s open? Who’s not? Who’s on first? Anna Maria Island is opening up again — slowly. More like lotus flowers, one after another, spreading over time. No rush. In fact, not all the businesses allowed to reopen under Gov. Ron DeSantis’ orders have opened. Some owners are waiting while others are stepping softly into the new times. Vacation rental owners prepped and the announcement to open, with conditions, finally came May 21. Other businesses are finding there is more preparation for reopening than they bargained for, with safety for staff and customers being paramount. For instance, many restaurants have small, compact kitchens where the chef and cooks work shoulder to shoul-
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der with prep staff and a dishwasher and, then bring the waiters into the kitchen to pick up orders. The space? Too tight. It must also be difficult, if not dangerous to cook over a hot stove, or reach in and out of ovens while wearing a face mask and latex gloves. These are tough working conditions — and the difficulty accelerates with precautions for the novel coronavirus. Don Madden and Patsy Welch reopened their Holmes Beach Barber Shop in the Island Shopping Center more than a week ago. “It was busy at first,� Madden said. “And then it tapered off a bit.� Madden and Welch are joined by Brian Finelli at the 56-year-old barber shop. Other businesses in the shopping center opened as allowed, including the Feast Restaurant, which stayed busy making pizzas and to-go orders during the wait to welcome patrons indoors. Around the corner at 5508 Marina Drive, the Saltair boutique has closed. Owner Teresa Burgess said she plans to open in another location — a building she owns on Cortez Road — and she’s marketing her unique furnishings, art and clothing and accessories online. Her store may be the first known closure on the island, but she’s moving on, not out of business. Emerson Quillin of Emerson’s Signature Store on Pine Avenue opened more than a week ago and says traffic there is slow. He thinks business will pick up as renters at vacation homes flood back to the island. Meanwhile, he said he has a affiliation, a greeting card line with Leanin’ Tree, and a new line of dish towels and glass hot plates featuring drawings of Anna Maria icons. Poppo’s Taquiera and the Donut Experiment were open
all along for takeout, and others, including the Island Cabana boutique on Pine Avenue, can finally reopen. The Waterfront Restaurant closed and almost as quickly reopened with curbside service and a walk-up “to go� cocktail bar — and all staff in masks. In Holmes Beach, Eat Here and the Doctor’s Office have joined other drive-thru, curbside operations after working out the kinks. The “Doctor� offers al fresco dining in a lovely courtyard in the shade of a large banyan tree. But it’s safety first for owner Sean Murphy, who is still working on the logistics at Beach Bistro. Vinny Esposito, owner and chef at his Italian Kitchen in Holmes Beach, didn’t miss a beat. He was pumping out takeout pizzas and entrees all through the shutdown. Meanwhile, we await the return to the daily 20-minute intervals for the fare-free trolley operations on AMI — as the trolley provides people with a solution to parking as well as driving. The Moose Lodge, along with the other bars that serve less food than booze, remained closed, per the governor’s orders. And Bortell’s bar in Anna Maria appears to be — finally — undergoing renovation. There should be a pool with wagers to see who opens first, Bortell’s or the Anna Maria City Pier At the Anna Maria Island Centre plaza, where The Islander operates with limited staff in the office, every store and restaurant is open. Cupcakes. Hardware. Chinese and German food, pizza and bagels. The libraries and city halls remain closed. We’re just skimming the island for openings here but, at some point, we have to transition back to an active community. Oddly — it might be vacation rentals that help us do that.
MIKE NORMAN REALTY
2501 Gulf Drive, Ste 102, Bradenton Beach
EST. 1978
For professional real estate sales, call a true island native, born and raised on Anna Maria Island. Marianne Norman-Ellis. 941.778.6696
OPEN HOUSE 1-4pm Sunday May 31
)NVESTMENT PROPERTY #!0 RATE POTENTIAL TO !LSO A GREAT FAMILY OR VACATION HOME $1,225,000. Al Wenzel, "ROKER !SSOCIATE '2) 0REMIER 3OTHEBYgS )NTERNATIONAL 2EALTY ALWENZEL GMAIL COM WWW TARES CO
Mike Norman Realty
WE ROCK ONLINE
DREAM CONDO Everything is new in this direct Gulffront dream condo! Sweeping views all the way to Bean Point! Huge swiming pool on the Gulf, covered parking, storage, elevator and much more. Well maintained complex. Come see all that Anna Maria Island Club has to offer. $769,000. SURF SIDE New 4bed/4.5 bath/2car pool home with partial Gulf views, rooftop sundeck, incredible pool and spa area. This amazing home was built with the details in mind, and the rental potential is through the roof. Call today. 941.713.4755
Jesse Brisson, Broker Associate, GRI 941-713-4755, jbrisson@kw.com
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Your Home. My Priority.
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Longtime island resident would love to find your exciting property: whether you prefer the beach, vibrant downtown, or wide open spaces. Own a piece of what we all love! — Lisa Marie Allen
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islander.org
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
FOR SALE: 2202 Avenue B, Bradenton Beach. 6 Bed/4 Bath: $999,000. Runaway Bay #220, 1801 Gulf Drive N., Bradenton Beach: $339,000.
WE LIKE LIKES
Chantelle Lewin
Broker Associate Licensed since 1983
941.713.1449 MIRABELLA VILLA, 2BR/2BA Private, gated community. MLS4465412 $378,800.
Lisa Marie Allen | PROUD SALES AGENT @ WAGNER REALTY Reach me on my cell: 941.720.6674 or email LMAllenRealtor@gmail.com
WWW.CHANTELLELEWIN.COM
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facebook.com/ Islandernewspaper
RELEASE DATE: 5/24/2020
New York Times Sunday Magazine Crossword
May 27, 2020 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 27 No. 0517 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................
BORDER CROSSINGS
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BY ADAM FROMM / EDITED BY WILL SHORTZ Adam Fromm is a songwriter/musician from Brunswick, Me., who has been making puzzles “as far back as I can remember.” His first published puzzle appeared in Games magazine in 2000. This one grew out of a geographical curiosity he noticed. Fun fact: Adam is a huge fan of Amazon Prime’s “36-Down,” which he was very happy to include in the grid. — W.S.
AC RO SS
1 “For more ____ …” 5 Some unwanted mail 9 Terse bit of advice 13 Half of an ice cream brand with a fake Danish name 19 Work up a sweat 20 Rent 21 Like tap water in a restaurant 22 Iris part 23 Wing it [Africa] 25 Blue 26 Chew out 27 Après-ski drink 28 Complete rip-off [Asia] 30 Barrel-flavored, as wine 31 Washington, D.C., legalized it in 2014 32 Wealthy king of legend 33 Recess 36 Charge for admission 37 See 101-Down 38 Quaint contraction 41 Record company [Central America] 45 Two-time thirdparty presidential candidate 47 “The Walking Dead” channel 48 Beyond great 49 Baking measure 50 Cerebral 51 Take in Online subscriptions: Today’s
puzzle and more Answers: than 4,000 past puzzles, page 24 nytimes.com/crosswords ($39.95 a year).
53 ____ shoots (salad ingredient) 54 One of five for a dolphin 55 Supple leather 56 Proboscis, informally 58 What subjects and verbs must do [Europe] 62 Ancho pepper, before drying 65 Puzzled 66 Sort by urgency of need [Europe] 70 Misgiving 74 Where meditators look 75 ____ candy 76 Planet where the cry “Shazbot!” is said to have originated 79 Food-chain link 80 Treats prepared on an open fire 81 Part of O.E.D.: Abbr. 82 Organic fertilizer 84 Hold up 85 Male 91-Acrosses 86 T-shirt size [South America] 90 Not to mention 91 Forest ranger 92 Shapes made by thumbs and index fingers 93 Glossed over 94 Like some toy cars 97 Sportage maker 98 ____ Cochran, Mississippi senator from 1978 to 2018 99 First month of the year without a U.S. federal holiday [Asia] 102 Dismissed out of hand
106 Want badly 107 Sit at a red light, say 108 Biblical outcast [South America] 109 Exclamation from a cheek pincher 110 Org. behind the New Horizons project 111 One whose job prospects go up in smoke? 112 Responsibility 113 Biggest U.S. union, familiarly 114 Set of two 115 City north of Des Moines 116 Resident of the Palazzo Ducale
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14 Many Omanis 15 Group seen in gathering clouds? 16 Discovery that might cause a rush 17 Wellsian race of the future 18 Gram 24 Objects in one of Jesus’ miracles 28 Singer Lisa 29 Top of the line 31 Fruit with an obovate shape 33 Media for scientists 34 Unit of brightness 35 Raw material for Cadbury 36 Popular Amazon Prime dramedy from DOWN Britain 1 Hankering 39 Kind of column seen 2 Manhattan on the Jefferson neighborhood west Memorial of the East Village 40 “Funny Girl” 3 Order composer Jule 4 Cranky codger 42 Copy 5 “Reach for the sky!” 43 Vaper’s device, 6 Sandwich often served informally with rémoulade 44 Nutritional snack sauce from Clif 7 Killer of the Night 45 Trig, for calc, e.g. King on “Game of 46 Relaxed Thrones” 50 Some wetlands 8 “Throw ____ bone” 9 Key of Debussy’s “Clair 52 Snack with a recommended de Lune” microwave time of 10 Black pie-crust just three seconds component 54 Theater impresario 11 Lead-in to many a Ziegfeld joke on “The Daily 55 Abbr. in a Show” genealogical tree 12 Senator who once served as an editor 57 ____ Strait, separator of The Harvard Law of Australia and Review Papua New Guinea 13 Hurt 59 What one is in Paris?
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60 Kylo ____, “Star Wars” antagonist 61 Candy-heart phrase 63 Raises one’s paddle, say 64 Each verse of “Deck the Halls” has 32 of them 66 Host Tyler of “Whose Line Is It Anyway?” 67 Dishearten 68 Scottish tradition before battle 69 “We Three Kings” subjects
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71 Deodorant brand 72 Sierra ____ 73 “Whoops, sorry about that!” 77 Sensationalist newspaper 78 Openings under desks 81 Observance first celebrated in 1970 82 Big to-do 83 Like “Saturday Night Live” 86 Put up with
87 Pull back 88 Mother of 60-Down 89 Item in a toxic internet “challenge” 91 Region around the Beltway, informally 95 Just for laughs 96 Put on a show 97 Work with one’s hands 98 Poppycock 99 Classic computer game set on an abandoned island
100 Michelle of “Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon” 101 With 37-Across, Ingrid Bergman’s role in “Casablanca” 102 Tricky pronoun to use 103 Wine opener? 104 ’60s dance craze that evolved from the Chicken 105 Join 108 Helper during taxing times?
Visit WWW.ISLANDER.ORG for the best news on Anna Maria Island.
LO C A L LY K N OW N . G LO B A L LY C O N N E C T E D.
R I V E RV I E W L A N D I N G S 2415 Landings Circle Kathy Valente & Gregory Zies 941-685-6767 A4452193 $3,650,000
A N N A M A R I A B E AC H 109 Palm Avenue Hannah Hillyard & George Myers 941-744-7358 A4461783 $2,495,000
W E L L S B AY H A R B O R 710 S Bay Boulevard Hannah Hillyard & George Myers 941-744-7358 A4461640 $2,100,000
S H O R E AC R E S 867 N Shore Drive Ken Kavanaugh, Jr & Margo Love Story 941-799-1943 A4454292 $1,725,000
NORTH POINT HARBOUR 609 N Point Drive Hannah Hillyard & George Myers 941-744-7358 A4455659 $1,190,000
V I LL A S O F H O LM E S B E AC H 206 52nd Street 3 Kathy Harman 941-900-9828 A4464002 $989,000
M A I N S A I L B E AC H I N N 107 66th Street 12 Kristi Berger & Deborah Capobianco 941-730-3801 A4452254 $875,000
K E Y R OYA L E 602 Baronet Lane Hannah Hillyard 941-744-7358 A4447974 $779,000
A N N A M A R I A I S L A N D C LU B 2600 Gulf Drive N 27 Hannah Hillyard & George Myers 941-744-7358 A4466878 $743,000
B AY PA L M S 7802 Palm Drive A & B Laura Rulon 941-896-2757 A4462950 $625,000
M A I N S A I L B E AC H I N N 101 66th Street 6 Kristi Berger & Deborah Capobianco 941-730-3801 A4452260 $600,000
MARINA WALK ON HARBOUR ISLE 383 Aruba Circle 201 Hannah Hillyard & George Myers 941-744-7358 A4466540 $575,000
M A I N S A I L B E AC H I N N 103 66th Street 10 Kristi Berger & Deborah Capobianco 941-730-3801 A4452245 $572,125
ANNA MARIA ISLAND 304 29th Street A & B Jody Shinn 941-705-5704 A4435660 $480,000
RIVERSIDE POINT 5473 56th Court E Tyler Hardy 941-201-4574 A4433047 $229,900
NEW CONSTRUCTION
MSC MORTGAGE | MSC TITLE | MS&C COMMERCIAL NEW HOMES & CONDOMINIUMS
8 8 8 . 552 . 52 2 8
www.michaelsaunders.com L I C E N S E D R E A L E S TAT E B R O K E R
Page 28 THE ISLANDER | islander.org May 27, 2020 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................