#aMItogether
VOLUME 28, NO. 38
the Best news on anna maria island Since 1992 astheworldterns look for better attitudes. 6
Ready, set, pump sand!
manatee county health director Q&a. 3 Visitors share appreciation for new pier. 4
Meetings. 4 HB closes in on permit parking. 5
Opinions. 6 10-20 YEARS AGO
looking back. 7
HB budget talks. 8
Happenings announcements. 10 center reopens. 11
GoodDeeds. 11 RoadWatch. 12 Bridge Street flips the switch. 13 time’s up for cortez stilt house. 14 landscape changes in cortez preserve. 15 royal treatment for rescued deer. 15
Cops, Courts & Streetlife. 16-17 Gathering.
18
Obituaries.
18
testing follows longboat Key sewer spill. 19
NESTING NOTES. 20
a stink by the shore. 21
Skimming AMI. 22 center resumes adult soccer. 22
islander.org Beach renourishment rolls south from Holmes Beach, where equipment lines the shore July 8 near 77th Street. the $17.3 million project funded by the federal, state and manatee county governments will restore beaches to longboat Pass, moving several blocks each day. the sand is pumped ashore from a borrow pit by a dredge vessel. Sea turtle nests are being relocated from the area to hand-dug nests in anna maria to protect eggs and hatchlings from being buried in the sand. for more on renourishment, see nesting notes, page 20. islander Photo: chrisann allen
Pressure mounts to lift COVID-19 bar restrictions By ryan Paice islander reporter
Bar owners on both Florida’s coasts are launching challenges against the state’s suspension of alcohol service at bars. Bars that are licensed to serve alcohol and less than 50% food are impacted, while restaurants that serve alcohol and more than 50% food were exempted by the state. Joe Cuervo, owner of the Drift In, 120 Bridge St., Bradenton Beach, confirmed July 10 that he and a group of local bar owners, including Bob Tingler, owner of the Anchor Inn in Holmes Beach, would initiate a classaction lawsuit against the state so their busi-
Top Notch Week 1: Pool fun anne ricci of Holmes Beach takes the prize in the first week of the islander’s 2020 top notch photo contest with this summer-strong photograph of her great-grandson, Jayden Jenkins, cartwheeling into the swimming pool June 9 at ricci’s home. ricci won an islander “more-than-a-mullet wrapper� t-shirt and entry into the finals, which offers a grand prize of $100 from the islander and gift certificates from islander advertisers. for more on the contest, see page 12.
mangoes on the hook. 23 CLASSIFIEDS. 24
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nesses could resume operations and recover monetary damages suffered due to the state’s “discriminatory� policies. “It’s going to be a long process,� Cuervo said. “But we’re the only ones who have been shut down and it’s really unfair.� A June 26 emergency order from the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation prohibited on-premises consumption of alcoholic beverages at bars to slow the spread of COVID-19. The DBPR amended the order July 1 to allow bars licensed to sell food to resume selling cocktails at their establishments, but five of the island’s seven bars lack food ser-
vice licenses. Bars without food service licenses — the Drift In, Sports Lounge and Tommy Knockers in Bradenton Beach and the Anchor Inn and D.Coy Ducks in Holmes Beach — were limited to the sale of packaged alcohol and to-go beverages. “It’s not enough,� Cuervo said. “I’m losing money daily.� Cuervo argued the state order discriminates against bars because it fails to also restrict alcohol sales at restaurants. He said his clientele hadn’t stopped going out to drink, they just went to restaurants instead. PleaSe, See bars, Page 2
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Members socialize and social distance July 9 at the bar at the Anna Maria Island Moose Lodge No. 2188, 110 Gulf Drive S., Bradenton Beach. The lodge began serving alcoholic beverages for consumption the week ending July 12, based on an approved food service license. Islander Photo: Ryan Paice
bars continued from page 1
“We’re just being ignored,” Cuervo said. “Nothing is being said or done about anything. We’ve been closed now for two weeks and (COVID-19 infections) are still rising, so the problem clearly isn’t just bars.” “(Gov. Ron DeSantis) is trying to put everybody in the bar business out of business,” he added. Cuervo said the group hired an attorney, whom he declined to name, but had yet to file an official legal action. On the east coast, attorney Jacob Weil of Fort Lauderdale-based Weil Law Group filed a claim July 3 in the 7th Judicial Circuit on behalf of two Volusia County bar owners. The Volusia lawsuit is the first known legal challenge filed against the state order. Weil’s memorandum of law stated, “Any state action that infringes upon civil liberties must closely target the root of the purported crisis … and do so in a fair and balanced way, with special attention to the fundamental doctrines of due process and equal protection.” The lawsuit asks the court to grant the plaintiffs — Ormond City-based Seaside Tavern owner Patricia Miracle and Gregory Trent, owner of two South Daytona-based bars — relief by declaring the order shutting down bars violates their civil rights. The lawsuit also seeks attorney’s fees and “further relief as the court deems just and appropriate.” The group also filed an injunction asking Judge Leah Case to suspend the state’s order shutting down bars. They asked for an emergency hearing, but a date had not been set as of July 11. Weil did not respond to a July 10 call from The Islander. AMI’s lodge reopens with full service The Anna Maria Island Moose Lodge No. 2188, 110 Gulf Drive S., Bradenton Beach, was the only bar on the island selling alcoholic beverages for onpremises consumption as of July 10. Lodge governor Steve Boniberger and administrator Byron Dalton said July 9 they were happy to
reopen. “I can tell you from the bottom of our hearts that we’re darn glad to be open,” Dalton said. “Our members are also very pleased we’re open again, and it’s great to see them.” The bar closed due to the DBPR’s June 26 order prohibiting alcohol service at bars but was able to reopen after a July 1 amendment because the business has a food service license. Dalton said the lodge received a call from the Bradenton Beach Police Department July 3 notifying the business it could reopen, and the establishment proceeded July 6 with full service for members — members only, according to an online newsletter. “Financially, we can always do better,” Dalton said. “But we’re open. We’re putting money in the bank at this time and that’s a good thing all around.” However, Boniberger said he’d prefer the state reopen all bars with strict safety measures rather than differentiate between those that have a food service license and those that do not. “I say let them reopen, but they have to follow the rules and the state needs to follow up and check them,” he said. “They can’t check them all, though, and that’s
the problem.” Boniberger said the lodge implemented safety measures to prevent the spread of the coronavirus inside the bar, such as requiring that staff wear face masks and frequent sanitizing procedures. Dalton said the lodge stressed safety from the start of the pandemic because its membership consists primarily of older people who may be more vulnerable to the virus. He added that he was concerned about the lack of safety measures practiced at some other bars in the area, which he refused to name. The Doctor’s Office, 5312 Holmes Blvd., Holmes Beach, also has a food service license, according to the DBPR website, www.myfloridalicense.com, but owner Sean Murphy has said he would restrict the business to take-out service until he sees improvement in the COVID-19 pandemic. Last week, Murphy closed the Doctor’s Office and began serving take-out cocktails and food at another of his Holmes Beach restaurants, Eat Here. Meanwhile, his third property, the upscale Beach Bistro, remains closed while undergoing extensive renovations to its HVAC systems.
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County health director answers questions about COVID-19 By ChrisAnn Allen Islander Reporter
Manatee County was not immune to a statewide spike in cases of the novel coronavirus, starting in lateJune. The county reported a record 470 new positive cases on a single day, July 11, surpassing its previous record of 289 cases set July 3. Daily positive cases in a younger population continued by the hundreds in early July and hospital beds started to fill, according to the Department of HealthManatee. As of July 9, 4,402 people in the county tested positive of 50,422 people tested, compared with 3,156 people of 41,788 people tested as of July 1. A total of 332 people had been hospitalized and 138 people have died in the county due to the virus. As of July 9, 106 COVID-19 patients were in local hospitals, with 22 in intensive care units, according to the Agency for Health Care Administration. All the intensive-care beds were filled at Manatee Memorial Hospital in Bradenton, while about 15% of ICU beds were open at Blake Medical Center, also in Bradenton. At Lakewood Ranch Medical Center, about 11% of beds were available. The median age of people with positive cases in the county matched the state at 39. Additionally, one person in Anna Maria, eight people in Holmes Beach and 13 people in Bradenton Beach had tested positive for the virus. Bradenton Beach is the only island municipality without a face mask requirement. To clarify information about the spread of COVID19, Dr. Jennifer Bencie, health officer for DOH-Manatee, answered questions posed by County Commissioner Misty Servia during a July 10 livestreamed Facebook event. Bencie said when the pandemic was first reported in the county in March, most positive cases were people in their 60s. The majority of new cases now
County Commissioner Misty Servia, left, poses questions about the coronavirus July 10 during a livestream Q&A on Facebook with Dr. Jennifer Bencie, county health officer for the Florida Department of Health-Manatee County. Islander Courtesy Screenshot
are people in their 30s. She said, in general, many younger people who tested positive are asymptomatic. Additionally, Bencie said more than 300 pediatric cases were reported in the past few weeks. Servia asked Bencie if “herd immunity” was a consideration. Herd immunity occurs when most of a population is immune to an infectious disease, providing indirect protection to those who are not immune to the disease, according to the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health. “It’s much too early to tell,” Bencie said, adding the virus has not been in the United States long enough to fully circulate throughout the community. Bencie, when asked if summer heat kills the virus, said the hypothesis had not proved true — at least not according to current data. She said being outside is better, “but to say that when you’re in the sunlight or if you’re outside the virus disappears or you won’t be affected by it is not the case.” Servia also asked Bencie about the importance of face masks. “Face masks can only help the situation,” Bencie said. “They do not cause harm.”
She said the only people the health department recommended not wear masks are children under age 2 due to strangulation concerns. Also, she said families where a member has been exposed should wear masks at home. “We are seeing families where children have been exposed to the virus because their parents were positive, then they are positive,” Bencie said. “You just have to be cautious and educated. The more barriers you have in place, the better it is.”
Where can islanders go for testing?
The closest coronavirus testing site to Anna Maria Island is at Home Depot, 2350 Cortez Road, Bradenton. The testing site in the parking lot is open seven days a week — 9 a.m.-5 p.m. or until the limit of 100 tests per day is reached. Specimens are sent to Quest Diagnostics and results become available within 5–7 days. Testing is free and available to anyone over the age of 18, regardless of symptoms. — ChrisAnn Allen
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Visitors share appreciation for new Anna Maria City Pier By ChrisAnn Allen Islander Reporter
“I love it,” Julian Briones, 14, of Ellenton said July 10 of the new Anna Maria City Pier, 101 Bay Blvd., Anna Maria. Briones said he had fished off the old pier “most of his life” and couldn’t wait for the new one to open. “We were waiting a long time to be able to fish out here again,” he said. The new pier was built in the footprint of the historic pier, which opened in 1911 but was demolished by the city after it was deemed destroyed by the city’s insurer after Hurricane Irma damages in September 2017.
The city opened the pier to sightseers and anglers June 19, following about two years of construction. Julian’s aunt, Verna Briones, who watched from a beach chair on the shore as her family fished on the pier, also said she is “happy to be back.” “I love to come here, because I can sit and enjoy the sun and waves and watch the kids fish,” she said. “We really missed it.” Verna Briones said she appreciated the “rustic look” of the old pier, and the memorial planks on the walkway, but understands a new pier was necessary. “From what I’ve heard and read, this pier will sustain for many more years to come,” she said. “So it’s
Julian Briones, 14, of Ellenton, casts a net July 10 into the water surrounding the new Anna Maria City Pier, which opened June 19 following nearly three years of closure, demolition and construction. Islander Photos: ChrisAnn Allen
Verna Briones of Sarasota waves from her spot on the beach July 10 to family members fishing on the new Anna Maria City Pier.
Wes, left, Heather and Grayson Fields, 10 months, of Georgia, take souvenir photos July 10 on the new Anna Maria City Pier.
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comforting to know it will withstand storms.” Heather Fields of Georgia visited the pier July 10 with her family, before heading back home. She said they used to visit the old pier while vacationing in Anna Maria. “We think it looks really great,” she said. “We hope next time we are back the restaurant will be opened back up.” The city is in lease negotiations with owners of the Ugly Grouper restaurant in Holmes Beach for the pier restaurant and bait shop, and anticipates the restaurant will open in late 2020 or early 2021. Manatee County Sheriff’s Deputy Steve Stewart, who works off-duty as security for the pier, said he’s heard mostly positive responses from pier-goers. “The city did an excellent job on this pier,” Stewart, who has lived in the area since 1983 and spent time on the historic pier, said July 10. “That’s what I’ve been hearing — just a lot of positives from everyone, newcomers and islanders alike.” Manatee County Sheriff’s Deputy Steve Stewart works “off-duty” July 10 as security at the new Anna Maria City Pier, 101 Bay Blvd. The city contracted with MCSO for pier security until a new restaurant opens.
Meetings
Anna Maria City July 16, 2 p.m., city commission (special). July 17, 2 p.m., planning and zoning. July 24, 11 a.m., special magistrate. July 30, 6 p.m., city commission. Anna Maria City Hall, 10005 Gulf Drive, 941-7086130, cityofannamaria.com. Bradenton Beach July 16, noon, city commission. July 21, 9:15 a.m., city commission (emergency). July 22, 1 p.m., planning and zoning. July 28, 9:15 a.m., city commission (emergency). Bradenton Beach City Hall, 107 Gulf Drive N., 941-778-1005, cityofbradentonbeach.com. Holmes Beach July 15, 10 a.m., special magistrate (code compliance). July 21, 6 p.m., city commission. Aug. 5, 6 p.m., planning commission. Holmes Beach City Hall, 5801 Marina Drive, 941708-5800, holmesbeachfl.org. West Manatee Fire Rescue July 21, 6 p.m., commission. WMFR administration building, 6510 Third Ave. W., Bradenton, 941-761-1555, wmfr.org. Manatee County July 22, 9 a.m., commission (land). July 28, 9 a.m., commission. July 30, 9 a.m., commission (budget). Administration building, 1112 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton, 941-748-4501, mymanatee.org. Of interest July 15, 3 p.m., Coalition of Barrier Island Elected Officials, Longboat Key Town Hall, 501 Bay Isles Road, Longboat Key. Aug. 17, 9 a.m., Manatee County Tourist Development Council, Holmes Beach City Hall. Aug. 18, Florida’s primary elections. Nov. 3, general election.
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Holmes Beach closer to permit parking zone, fine increase By chrisann allen islander reporter
Holmes Beach has plans to try out a new permitonly parking zone. In late April, on-street parking in the city was reduced by about 1,100 spots to minimize congestion, trash and noise caused by day-trippers in neighborhoods near beach accesses, based on the recommendations of Police Chief Bill Tokajer. The chief was tasked with a survey of parking and recommendations for closing parking areas by Mayor Judy Titsworth. The public reaction — both for and against the reduction in on-street tokajer parking — was strong. So the city continued to work on a plan to bring back more parking, but with regulations. At a teleconferenced commission meeting July 7, commissioners held a public hearing and unanimously approved the first reading of an ordinance creating a “parking-by-permit-only zone.” Commissioners also reached consensus to set the parking fine at $75, an increase of $25 from the current fine of $50. If approved on final reading, residents and owners would obtain decals for parking 9 a.m.-5 p.m. in 619 spots of the spaces that were removed when parking was limited for the coronavirus beach closures. After 5 p.m., parking in the zone would be open to the public. Full-time residents with proof of residency could obtain decals for all vehicles registered to the address, and low-speed vehicles would be included in the permit plan. Seasonal renters would be considered on a caseby-case basis, according to Tokajer. Vacation rental owners — individuals or businesses — would be allowed two decals for themselves, not to be shared with renters, and permits
Vote 2020
Registration to close July 20 for August primary
Voter registration in advance of the August primary continues through July 20. Also, the deadline to request a mail-in-ballot for the Aug. 18 primary is Aug. 8. The general election will be Nov. 3, and the voter registration deadline will be Oct. 5. For more details, go online to votemanatee.com or call the Manatee County Supervisor of Elections office at 941-741-3823. Please, send notices and listings for Vote Notes to news@islander.org.
#AMItogether #AMItogether #AMItogether #AMItogether #AMItogether #AMItogether #AMItogether #AMItogether
Holmes Beach commission candidate Jayne christenson speaks July 7 during a teleconferenced city meeting on implementing a permit parking plan. islander Screenshot
would be nontransferable to other vehicles. Unlicensed golf carts would not require a permit and could park in permit zones, as they mostly are owned by people who live in the city, according to Tokajer, but licensed low-speed vehicles would be part of the permit program.
morton
Response Commissioner Pat Morton said residents should not have to pay for parking decals. Commissioner Carol Soustek agreed with Morton and also suggested the parking fine be raised to rash $75, a $25 increase from the current $50 fine. Commissioner Kim Rash said the increased parking fine could cover the cost of the decals, and the rest of the commission agreed to the proposal. Hurst Jayne Christenson, a city commission candidate on the ballot in the upcoming election, said she supports the plan but suggested the city enforce the permit-parking zone around the clock. She said that by allowing open parking after 5 p.m., “you just bring back the problem you are trying to solve,” adding that the ordinance addresses parking for parties and events. Tokajer said people usually have parties after 5 p.m. and, after COVID-19 eases up, more residents might plan evening activities that put a demand on guest parking. He also said the sunset crowd does not
Holmes Beach is considering revising its parking plan to include resident-only parking in the blue zone on the map. the yellow zone depicts areas where parking is unrestricted. islander courtesy graphic
bring nearly the traffic of day-trippers. Former Commissioner Rick Hurst, who also is running for a seat on the city commission in the November election, agreed with Tokajer and supported the 9 a.m.-5 p.m. hours. “Let’s try to eliminate people having to call the police to say they are having friends over,” he said. Commissioners considered a six-month test period for permitted parking, but opted to hold a town hall for resident feedback and review the parking plan before the end of 2020. City attorney Patricia Petruff said she would prepare an ordinance to increase the parking fine for a future meeting. The commission will hold a public hearing and vote on the final reading of the permit-parking zone ordinance at 6 p.m. Tuesday, July 21, during its meeting at city hall, 5801 Marina Drive, or by teleconference, with instructions on the city website at holmesbeachfl.org.
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Opinion
Our
Relax the attitude
Since last week’s plea to wear masks for respect and protection for yourself and others from COVID-19, and on the heels of the island cities’ orders mandating masks to enter businesses and anywhere the 6-foot social distancing guideline can not be achieved, we’ve heard of some pretty ill-mannered results. It seems some people who don’t want to wear masks to stop the spread of the new coronavirus feel compelled to have their opinion heard. So why enter a restaurant and proceed to harass the server, the greeter, the cooks or anyone about their choice to forego a mask? They know — from posters at the door, articles in the local news, Facebook posts and word of mouth — that masks are required in businesses in Anna Maria and Holmes Beach. It’s unacceptable for people to behave in such a rude and, yes, sometimes aggressive manner toward business owners and staff who are following a municipal mandate. A mandate that promises to save lives and help curb the pandemic. Florida is the new epicenter for COVID-19. Can we afford to scoff at a known prescription for prevention of community spread? Thankfully, there are plenty of folks helping others, offering free masks, exceeding the CDC guidelines at their businesses, and, like Kathy Smart, Minnie’s Beach Cafe owner, pushing for all cities and the county to adopt mask mandates. It’s the best we can do without another lockdown — and it’s not that much to ask. Is it? If we all wear masks in public for three-four weeks, COVID-19 could be drastically reduced and lives would be saved. Sorry, but bad actors are not welcome. So again we say, wear the damn mask. We have much to rejoice on Anna Maria Island without worrying about spreading a pandemic. We’re getting sand. Sand, sand, sand is being pumped ashore in Holmes Beach and Bradenton Beach, from 77th Street to Longboat Pass. It’s reason to celebrate because it’s resort tax dollars — the 5% paid for all accommodation rentals of six months or less — coming back to our communities. Beach renourishment also nourishes our economy, because, without a beach, locally owned restaurants, mom-and-pop shops and motels on Anna Maria Island, Longboat Key: For the record we would have little to cheer. The recent leak of wastewater from the Longboat Let’s raise a glass to beach renourishment and to Key-to-Manatee County pipeline for treatment was an those who wear their mask to sunset gatherings. extremely unfortunate event and one the town takes — Bonner Joy, news@islander.org very seriously. It is understandable that there is a lot of concern about this incident. The town has long recognized the risks with this aging pipe and, thus, has spent a number of years JULY 15, 2020 • Vol. 28, No. 38 assessing the pipe and monitoring its condition. ▼ Publisher and Editor Town staff discovered the leak June 29 and the Bonner Joy, news@islander.org town commission was notified that day. ▼ Editorial lisa neff, editor, lisa@islander.org Prior to realizing there may be a leak in the pipe, chrisann allen, chrisann@islander.org we have been advised that town and Manatee County Joe Bird, editorial cartoonist utilities staff were investigating potential meter and Kevin cassidy, kevin@islander.org equipment issues based on anomalous flow readings michael dunn, michael@islander.org Jack elka, jack@jackelka.com going back to June 18. Brook morrison, brook@islander.org The leak was discovered on the mainland in a ryan Paice, ryan@islander.org heavy mangrove, undeveloped area across the bay ▼ Contributors Sandy ambrogi, sandy@islander.org from Longboat Key. The leak did not occur in the porJesse Brisson tion of the pipe that is under the bay.
Opinion
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Town public works staff notified the Florida Department of Environmental Protection of the leak June 29. The town immediately mobilized an emergency contractor that afternoon to gain access to the leak and start the repair. Because the leak was in a remote area of mangroves, it took additional time and effort to access the actual source of the leak. We were very fortunate how quickly our contractor was able to mobilize, access the remote site, stabilize the area and make the repair. According to the environmental consultants, there was no obvious discharge plume or debris in the bay in the immediate area of the leak when testing began July 1. The initial testing results have been consistent with our initial observations and assumptions and, so far, confirm limited impacts to the bay. We continue to test as recommended. As we learn more about the cause of the leak, and how that may relate to the overall condition of the pipe, we are also looking at opportunities to advance the redundant pipe project as part of our post-leak plan. Rest assured that the town recognizes the importance of the bay to not just Longboat Key, but to the overall region. We will determine what occurred, what the impacts are, coordinate with DEP on any required mitigation efforts, and take action to help enhance our policies and infrastructure to minimize the potential for future incidents. Longboat Key Town Manager Tom Harmer Editor’s note: This statement was edited for length.
July 15, 2020 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 7 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................
From the archives
Beach politics u.S. rep. andy ireland and second lady marilyn Quayle meet in april 1990 with people in Bradenton Beach to discuss beach restoration. islander courtesy Photos: manatee county Public library System
The ‘Jingle Man’
10&20 years ago
From the July 12, 2000, issue
• Phil Charnock resigned as Anna Maria building official to work for South Pasadena. Charnock was expected to resign after he asked the mayor to determine his severance package benefits. • Transportation officials scheduled a meeting with Cortez residents to discuss construction of a middle lane on Cortez Road from 119th Street West to the bridge to provide a turn lane for motorists and ease traffic congestion, particularly during the winter season. A survey showed 62 percent of Cortez residents opposed the additional lane. • Anna Maria Commissioners Bob Barlow, Jay Hill and Tom Skoloda wrote Mayor Gary Deffenbaugh demanding an apology for remarks he made following a commission budget meeting at which he said city commissioners were unprepared for the meeting and came “empty-handed.”
From the July 14, 2010, issue
a man serves a nutty Buddy ice cream cone from a truck in Bradenton Beach in march 1980. the man is not identified in the photo in the library archives. do you recognize him? email news@ islander.org.
• Statistics from the Manatee County Tourist Development Council indicated that tourists who planned summer vacations in the Panhandle opted instead for vacations on Anna Maria Island due to the Deepwater Horizon oil spill. • Bradenton Beach officials said in the next few years the city would be on the hook for $735,000 to replace the Historic Bridge Street Pier. • Black skimmers and their chicks took refuge on higher ground as rain soaked their beach rookery in north Anna Maria. • Lawton “Bud” Chiles III visited Anna Maria to campaign for governor with his brother Ed and mom Rhea, both residents. The candidate attended a fundraising dinner at Ed Chiles’ Sandbar Restaurant. — lisa neff
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HB budget plans, COVID-19 concerns By chrisann allen islander reporter
budget talks
As Bob Dylan wrote, “The times, they are a-changin’.” As the 2020-21 fiscal year approaches, Holmes Beach must decide how to handle reduced revenue due to economic effects of the novel coronavirus. “We are experiencing unprecedented circumstances right now,” city treasurer Lori Hill began her presentation July 7 during a teleconferenced budget work session. “In my 30-plus years of accounting, finance and budgeting, COVID-19 has left us with many unknowns.” She said the city worked on the budget “from the ground up,” ensuring necessary expenses were covered and others deferred to another year. The current fiscal year ends Sept. 30. According to Hill’s report, ad valorem tax revenues are projected at $4,687,259 for 2020-21, an increase of $192,378 or 4.3% from $4,494,881 in 2019-20. The budget was prepared at the 2019-20 ad valorem tax rate of 2.25 mills. Hill said that this millage rate reflects a balanced budget, but would lead to a “serious depletion” of the unrestricted cash reserve. The proposed 2.25 millage represents a tax increase for property owners. In order to maintain the 2019-20 cost for property homeowners, the city would have to approve the rollback rate of 2.1641, the percent of tax needed to raise the same funding as last year. She said auditors recommend the city have 25% of its total expenses in the operating fund. Based on the projected budget, there is a deficit of $800,000. To not have a deficit, the maximum millage rate would need to be raised to 2.62 mills. Total taxable assessed valuations for the city for 2020 are $2,198,919,831, according to the Manatee County Property Appraiser’s Office. For 2019, assessed value was $2,101,932,610. The proposed budget revenue of $16,675,079 reflects a decrease in spending of $266,738 or 1.6%, from the 2019-20 adopted budget of $16,941,817. But Hill said projections could change based on COVID-19 shortfalls. She said, based on what was received for April, she expects a 35% decrease in half-cent sales tax revenue and a 20% loss in gas tax revenue for 2020-21. She said most cities are projecting a 40%-45%
decrease in such revenue. Hill said the most notable differences in the proposed budget would include: • Staffing costs, including a new part-time planner at $27,690; • Building permit revenue would decrease by about $320,000 due to a new fee schedule; • New agenda management software, hardware and setup, totaling $33,625; • Comprehensive plan revisions totaling $65,000 for this year’s portion of the $150,000 contract with LaRue Planning of Fort Myers. The city also added $250,000 from 2019-20 reserves to a Bert Harris contingency fund of $750,000 for a total of $1 million. Hill said the city wants a judgment on Bert Harris cases before the September budget hearing and final reading of the proposed budget in order to reallocate the reserve to the city’s unrestricted cash reserve. Funding for stormwater improvements is projected to increase by $430,865 due to recently increased repair costs for failing infrastructure. Additionally, the Federal Emergency Management Agency is matching 75% of the cost for drainage repairs and improvements in the city center, the area surrounding Gulf and Marina drives. The city also received grant funding from other agencies, including the Southwest Florida Water Management District. However, due to COVID-19, both the half-cent discretionary tax and the fifth-cent gas tax revenue, which contribute to the cost of the project would be down by 30%. Hill said the city must make up the difference, as the repairs are necessary safety measures, but the revenue sources should show a future increase. Additionally, the city did not receive $2 million in anticipated state appropriations revenue for stormwater. The funding was approved by the state Legislature, but vetoed by Gov. Ron DeSantis due to COVID-19 cuts. The city is retaining a lobbyist for 2020-21 for another shot at the funding. The maximum millage rate — required for submission to the county property appraiser — will be announced at the next commission meeting at 6 p.m. Tuesday, July 21, at city hall, 5801 Marina Drive, or held by teleconference with instructions on the city website at holmesbeachfl.org.
the business center in Holmes Beach, where gulf and marina drives intersect, is undergoing infrastructure improvements that will continue into the 2020-21 fiscal year. islander Photo: chrisann allen
Island preliminary value tops $4.1 billion on tax roll
The Manatee County Property Appraiser’s Office in early July released annual tax roll data to assist municipal budgetmakers for the 2020-21 fiscal year. The reported total taxable value for Anna Maria Island exceeds $4.1 billion. The data — found at manateepao.com — includes values for real property by districts, as well as catDid you know? egories within districts, Manatee including Anna Maria, County’s property Bradenton Beach and tax bills are based Holmes Beach. on assessed value of a property, less In Anna Maria exemptions, times The tax roll showed the millage rate of all 1,704 parcels in Anna the districts in which Maria with a total taxable a property is located. value for real property of $1,265,822,049, an increase from last year. The total taxable value, including personal property, was set at $1,272,068,427. Single-family residence was the category with the most parcels, 1,284, and the largest taxable value, $1,064,046,132. In 2019, the tax roll showed 1,698 parcels in the city and the total taxable value was $1,194,657,237. The total taxable value for single-family residences — there were 1,280 — was $1,001,429,629. In Bradenton Beach The total taxable value of real property in Bradenton Beach was reported at $683,803,134 for 1,917 parcels — both increased from last year. The total taxable value, including personal property, was set at $691,333,870. The city’s largest number of parcels was condominiums, 1,035, with $342,294,908 in taxable value. In 2019, the tax roll showed 1,917 parcels in the city and the total taxable value was $643,730,262. The total taxable value for condominiums — the category with the most properties in the city at 1,035 — was $329,449,979. In Holmes Beach The tax roll showed 4,402 parcels in Holmes Beach with a total taxable real property value of $2,183,183,526, increased from last year. The total taxable value, including personal property and centrally assessed property, was set at $2,198,919,831. The report showed the city having 1,759 single-family residences with a total taxable value of $1,089,963,043. In 2019, the tax roll showed 4,416 parcels in the city and the total taxable value was $2,087,301,969. The total taxable value for single-family homes — the category with the most properties at 1,880 — was $1,046,745,814. Budgetmakers need values to calculate revenue. This summer, municipalities will set tentative millage rates and draft budgets, which must be adopted in September, before the new fiscal year begins Oct. 1. In August, the MPAO will send property owners a notice of proposed taxes and assessments — a truth in millage or “TRIM” notice. — lisa neff
Motion to extend discovery granted for six HB-Bert Harris plaintiffs By chrisann allen islander reporter
A discovery extension sought by the plaintiffs was granted July 8 for six Holmes Beach Bert Harris cases. Represented by attorney Sean Powers of the Najmy Thompson law office in Bradenton, the plaintiffs, including developer Shawn Kaleta, filed a motion May 18 requesting an extension of time to produce discovery. Discovery is the process by which each party can obtain evidence from the other party or parties through devices such as interrogatories and documents. The lawsuits allege changes to the city’s vacation rental regulations, specifically occupancy, impacted
the owners’ property rights. The motion stated the city’s counsel in April agreed to an indefinite extension for the responses. During a July 8 telephonic hearing, attorney Randy Mora with the Trask Daigneault law firm in Clearwater, representing Holmes Beach, said the city granted the plaintiffs a 60-day extension in January. Then, following another extension request, emailed the plaintiffs they could “take as much time as necessary” due to the novel coronavirus, but determined May 8 that sufficient time had elapsed and sent a letter notifying the plaintiffs that discovery was due. Twelfth Circuit Judge Charles Sniffen said he agreed with Mora that the city did not mean the plaintiffs could take “forevermore” to submit the discovery,
but conceded that he has not yet ruled on several private property rights cases that could have bearing on the discovery for the lawsuits. A ruling on a similar set of cases, heard in November 2019 by Sniffen and also filed against Holmes Beach claiming violations of the Bert Harris Act due to occupancy limits, is forthcoming. Sniffen granted the plaintiffs an additional 30 days to complete discovery, stipulating an Aug. 10 deadline.
Click!
The Islander welcomes news of the milestones in readers’ lives. Send notices and photographs, along with a contact to news@islander.org.
July 15, 2020 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 9 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................
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Island happenings
Page 10 THE ISLANDER | islander.org July 15, 2020 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................
Privateers stage ‘One Night’
Community Cal
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT ONGOING ON AMI
Through Aug. 31, “Out of the Blue” gallery-wide exhibit, Island Gallery West, 5368 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941778-6648.
The Anna Maria Island Privateers continue to sell tickets to the “One Night in Tortuga” party, which is LOOKING AHEAD ON AMI set for Saturday, July 25. Oct. 16-17, Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce Bayfest, The party will be 7-11 p.m. at the Seafood Shack, Anna Maria. 4110 127th St. W., Cortez. Tickets to the gala are $50. OFF ANNA MARIA ISLAND Attendees will find music, dancing, raffles, merThrough July 31, all-media juried exhibit, ArtCenter Manatee, chants, a silent auction, food and grog in the Neptune 209 Ninth St. W., Bradenton. Information: 941-746-2862. Room. Proceeds will benefit the Privateers’ scholarship LOOKING AHEAD OFF AMI fund. Saturday, July 25, Anna Maria Island Privateers “One Night in A Facebook ad did not address coronavirus precauTortuga” party, Cortez. tions. For tickets to the party — limited to 50 guests CLUBS & — go online to amiprivateers.org or email liaison@ COMMUNITY amiprivateers.org.
‘Reading’ temps librarian liz Williams takes her temperature July 9 at the island library, 5701 marina drive, Holmes Beach. People seeking to check out the branch library are asked to first check in at a temperature scanner. Scanners are at all manatee county library locations, as well as the county administration building, judicial center, supervisor of elections office and utilities center on the mainland. to use a scanner, a person waves a wrist in front of a sensor to take a reading. for more information, call the library at 941-778-6341. islander Photo: lisa neff
Library open to patrons
Paradise center offers outdoor tai chi classes…
ON AMI
Thursday, July 16 Noon-5 p.m. — One Blood blood drive, Cupcake Delights, 3324 E. Bay Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 888-9-DONATE. The Longboat Key Paradise Center for Healthy
Living will offer outdoor instruction in tai chi beginning Wednesday, July 15. Sessions will be 10-11 a.m. and there is a fee. Instructor Reuben Fernandez has studied tai chi for more than 15 years. Attendees should bring their own water and wear loose clothing that does not restrict motion. The center is at 546 Bay Isles Road, Longboat Key. For more information or to reserve class space, call the center at 941-383-6493.
KIDS & FAMILY LOOKING AHEAD ON AMI Oct. 30, Trail of Treats, islandwide. Dec. 4, holiday walk and tree-lighting, Holmes Beach. Dec. 11, holiday walk, Anna Maria. Dec. 12, Christmas on Bridge Street, Bradenton Beach.
SPORTS & OUTDOORS
Manatee County public libraries remain open, … and free masks Oct. 23, Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce Golf Tournaincluding the Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive. The Longboat Key Paradise Center for Healthy Patrons must wear face masks in the library. Living is distributing free face masks, provided by the ment, Bradenton. Additionally, people must limit their time, keep a town of Longboat Key. GOOD TO KNOW safe distance from others and stay home if sick. Face coverings in circumstances where social distancing can not be achieved are mandated on Longboat SAVE THE DATES Key, as well as in Anna Maria and Holmes Beach. Monday, Sept. 7, Labor Day. Professional Nail For more, call the center at 941-383-6493. Z en Nails Care Salon
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Cupcake Delights to host Big Red Bus blood drive
Judy owens, owner of cupcake delights, donates blood aboard the Big red Bus in June 2019. one Blood is conducting another drive outside the cupcakery noon-5 p.m. thursday, July 16. donors receive a health screening, including a coVid-19 antibody test, tote bag and a cupcake. to donate, call 888-9-donate or go online to oneblooddonor. org, where appointments may be made using the code #41288. islander file Photo: Bonner Joy
“Be bold. Be brave. Save lives. Get a sugar rush.” Cupcake Delights invites the public to join the blood drive at One Blood’s Big Red Bus, which will be parked noon-5 p.m. Thursday, July 16, outside Cupcake Delights in the Anna Maria Island Centre shopping plaza, 3324 E. Bay Drive, Holmes Beach. Blood donors will receive a wellness checkup that includes cholesterol screening, blood pressure, iron count, pulse reading and COVID-19 antibody test. Donors also will receive a cupcake and tote bag. For more information about One Blood, call 888-9-DONATE or go online to oneblooddonor.org, where appointments may be made using the code #41288.
Cortez student on dean’s list
Cheryl Laing of Cortez was named to the University of Alabama dean’s list in the spring. To make the list, a full-time undergraduate student must achieve an academic record of 3.5 or above on a 4.0 scale. The University of Alabama is Alabama’s oldest and largest public institution of higher education. The Islander welcomes notices of student achievements by email to news@islander.org.
GoodDeeds
Help, get help on AMI
Assistance offered • The Roser Food Bank offers food assistance, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Information: 941-778-0414. • CrossPointe Fellowship offers help dealing with the COVID-19 outbreak, including deliveries and grocery shopping. Information: 941-778-0719. • All Island Denominations offers monetary help, including relief for unemployed people. Information: 941-725-2433. Volunteers sought • Moonracer Animal Rescue seeks volunteers to offer foster and forever homes for rescued animals. Information: 941-345-2441. • The Roser Food Bank needs donations. Roser Memorial Community Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, administers the pantry, supported by All Island Denominations. Information: 941-778-0414. Send listings to calendar@islander.org.
Community center reopens classes, summer camp The Center of Anna Maria Island planned to reopen July 13 with weekday hours of 7 a.m.-7 p.m. and Saturday hours of 7 a.m.-2 p.m. The center, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria, closed for much of the spring due to the coronavirus pandemic, reopened in late May and closed again June 25 after a staff member tested positive for COVID-19. The center July 9 announced plans to reopen July 13, after press time for The Islander. In an emailed announcement, the center said staff and guests would adhere to Anna Maria’s order mandating the wearing of face masks in certain situations. The order states, “Every person working, living, visiting or doing business in the city of Anna Maria shall wear a face covering in any indoor location, other than their home or residence, when not maintaining social distancing from other persons.” Facial coverings are not required for children under the age of 2 and people with certain health conditions do not need to wear masks. The center, in its statement, said its members and guests “need to wear a mask when entering the building and leaving the building” but once in a class, fitness area or on a game court “where you can safely social distance, you can remove your mask.” Anna Maria Mayor Dan Murphy, in an email to The Islander July 10, said he amended the city’s face mask order to include an exception for some indoor fitness activity and the center policy complies with the
WE TWEET TOO
city mandate. Murphy said the amendment was not discussed with city commissioners, who previously had authorized him to evaluate, adjust and extend the order. The center also said everyone who enters the facility would be subject to temperature checks and instructed to stay at least 6 feet “from others whenever possible.” People who are “feeling sick or vulnerable to illness” should stay home. With the reopening, the center reinstituted fitness classes and summer youth camps. Also, there are fitness hours — 2-4 p.m. — for members over 59 years old. Those enrolled in fitness classes must bring their own towel, mat and water. For more information, call the center at 941-7781908.
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Page 12 THE ISLANDER | islander.org July 15, 2020 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................
RoadWatch
KMB: Don’t litter PPE By chrisann allen islander reporter
They are supposed to keep us safe, not harm the environment. As people gear up in response to the spread of the novel coronavirus, Keep Manatee Beautiful says it is important to properly discard disposable masks and gloves, so they do not become litter and, on places like Anna Maria Island, end up as pollution in the Gulf of Mexico. “As the use of personal protective equipment grows to slow the spread of the coronavirus, the amount of litter and trash has increased,” according to a statement by the Solid Waste Association of North America. Jennifer Hoffman, executive director of Keep Manatee Beautiful, said July 8 the organization encourages people to properly dispose all trash — which includes personal protective equipment. She asked that retailers place trash receptacles in accessible areas to prevent the littering of PPE. “PPE litter is a threat to the environment and to those who clean it up. Please, do not throw your gloves or mask on the ground. Put them in the trash where they belong,” Hoffman said. “Unfortunately, we are finding too many masks in our cleanups these days.”
Eyes on the road
a disposable face mask lays crumpled in the wrack line July 8 in Holmes Beach — where shorebirds and other wildlife seek nutrition. concerns have spread that face masks and other personal protective equipment are becoming litter. islander Photo: chrisann allen
The Florida Department of Transportation and Manatee County posted the following notices: • Cortez Road and 119th Street West in Cortez: Work to realign the intersection of 119th Street West at Cortez Road/State Road 684 continues. Drivers can expect lane closures on Cortez Road from 123rd Street West to 86th Street West 10 p.m.-6 a.m. and on the south side of 119th Street West during the same period. Pedestrians can expect sidewalk closures. • State Road 64/Manatee Avenue at Perico Bayou and Palma Sola Bay bridges: 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. And, a reminder, a fare-free trolley operates daily on Anna Maria Island. — lisa neff
New Top Notch Top Not photo contest in week 2, deadline July 17 The Islander’s Top Notch has begun. The contest celebrates what still is known as the “Kodak moment,” despite Kodak’s downfall in the switch from film to digital technology. Look to July 17 for the next weekly deadline. The contest includes six weekly front-page winners. Each will claim an Islander “More than a mullet wrapper” T-shirt. One weekly shot will take the grand prize in the contest, earning the photographer a cash prize from The Islander and certificates from local merchants. A pet photo winner will be announced in the final week. Please, note, each original JPG must be included in a single email with the name of the photographer; date the photo was taken; location and description; names of recognizable people; and the address and phone number of the photographer. More rules — published online at www.islander. org — must be observed. — Bonner Joy
Top Notch
William Shafer of anna maria shot this weekly winner in the islander’s 2019 top notch photo contest. Shafer won an islander “more-than-a-mullet wrapper” t-shirt and entry into the finals, which offers a grand prize of $100 from the islander and an assortment of gift certificates from advertisers. the second deadline is noon, friday, July 17.
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Peaceful sandscript prompts carnage, dispute in Holmes Beach By chrisann allen islander reporter
“I do this in the name of peace,” sand artist Jim Shipley of Holmes Beach said July 8. “That’s why this is so disappointing.” Shipley was referring to the destruction of a large sand sculpture — a sandscript message — he has been building and refining since the novel coronavirus was first reported in the area in March. The largest part of the sculpture reads, “Pass on peace not COVID-19.” Peace symbols, a sun and, at one point, eagles and an American flag, were part of Shipley’s creation, stretching over an expanse of sand near 52nd Street in Holmes Beach. Meanwhile, the city and Keep Manatee Beautiful, a local nonprofit, sponsored a holiday beach cleanup July 6 near Shipley’s sculpture. According to KMB executive director Jennifer Hoffman, the sculpture included some hazards, partly due to heavy rain over night, and a volunteer tripped. Hoffman and some volunteers raked over the markings and filled in some holes. “We made the tripping hazard safe,” she said. An anonymous observer told The Islander she was “incensed” by the removal and said she did not understand why the city did not communicate with Shipley or take the effort to mark off the area. Since Shipley’s artwork was created without a permit, the city was allowed to alter it for public safety, according to code compliance director JT Thomas. Additionally, Police Chief Bill Tokajer said he spoke with Shipley before the Fourth of July weekend to let him know the sculpture might be damaged due to increased activity on the beach. “I let him know that if there were large groups on the beach, we might have to go through it with our
Sand artist Jim Shipley of Holmes Beach poses July 8 near his creation at 52nd Street in Holmes Beach, which reads, “Pass peace on, not coVid-19,” islander Photo: chrisann allen
ATVs to stay a safe distance from people,” Tokajer Shipley said there are two ways of looking at said. “He’s taking up too much real estate with too things. many large holes. And he seemed to understand.” “Some people may think it is a trip hazard, but Shipley has been creating sand art on Anna Maria most people love it,” he said. “The idea is just to bring Island beaches for many years. In August 2017, follow- happiness during a very difficult time.” ing Hurricane Harvey, he created a Halloween-themed a Halloweensculpture at the city sandpile, sand-bagging area and the themed sand city issued a proclamation in his honor. sculpture at the Shipley pointed out that one of his sculptures saved city sandpile folthe lives of some hatchling sea turtles. Disoriented by lowing Hurricane lighting on the beach, the tiny turtles ended paddling Harvey in 2017 through a large peace symbol on the sand, where they earned Shipley a were scooped up by volunteers and released to the Gulf city proclamation. of Mexico. islander courtesy Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch executive director Photo Suzi Fox thanked him for his work.
Bridge Street flips the switch to underground utilities City attorney Ricinda Perry, who has coordinated the project for the CRA, told The Islander July 8 that The power is up and running from new under- Wilco Electrical finished switching Bridge Street ground lines on Bridge Street. properties from the above-ground utilities to the new The Bradenton Beach Community Redevelopment underground system. Agency’s project to bury Bridge Street’s utility lines The project is intended to improve the strip’s aesis almost complete. thetic and shield utility lines during storms. Construction began in January after a lengthy wait for a permit from Florida Power & Light. Work involved excavating sections of roadway and sidewalks to bore tunnels suited to house power and cable lines, feeding new lines and bringing the system to life. The underground system became functional in late June. Wilco began switching Bridge Street properties onto the system July 3, finishing late July 8 at the Fish Hole Miniature Golf, 115 Bridge St. Perry said the last step will be removal of FPL’s By ryan Paice islander reporter
removing above-ground utility poles along Bridge Street in Bradenton Beach will be the final step in the city community redevelopment agency’s project to bury utilities along the commercial strip. islander Photo: ryan Paice
defunct utility poles. However, it remains unclear when, as FPL has yet to schedule the work. Bridge Street will be closed half a day during the work to ensure the safety of pedestrians while power lines are cut and poles removed, according to Perry. “It should be pretty quick,” she said. “It just depends on when FPL can get it on the books to get those poles out.” The utility project won’t end at Bridge Street. The city will receive $2 million from the state to fund similar work along sections of Gulf Drive to further protect the utilities during storms. Perry said the CRA will discuss the Gulf Drive project during the agency’s meeting at 9:30 a.m. Wednesday, Aug. 5, which the public can attend in person at city hall, 107 Gulf Drive N., or via Zoom. She said the city had begun working with FPL on engineering and permitting for the Gulf Drive project, and expected Mark Porter, senior utilities coordinator for CDM Smith, to present plans for the project to CRA members at the meeting. Perry added that she would like to retain the services of Wilco due to their “great” work on Bridge Street.
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Page 14 THE ISLANDER | islander.org July 15, 2020 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................
Deadline passes, house remains in bay waters off Cortez docks By leslie lake islander reporter
It’s the house on the water that won’t go away. A 30-day court-ordered extension for Raymond Guthrie Jr. to remove his stilt-house by June 3 expired, but the structure remains standing and the legal battles continue. The structure was built in 2017 over Sarasota Bay yards from the fish docks in Cortez. “Mr. Guthrie has not yet removed the unauthorized structure in accordance with the court’s order, despite the 30-day time extension provided by the department,” Shannon Herbon, Florida Department of Environmental Protection public information manager, wrote in a July 8 email to The Islander. Herbon said the department planned to petition the court to require Guthrie to comply with the provisions of the judge’s final judgment. The legal dispute between Guthrie and the DEP began in June 2017 when the DEP discovered the nonpermitted structure and determined the state owned the submerged land under the stilt house. Guthrie built the 1,200-square-foot structure with a metal roof, air conditioning and other amenities in
the stilt house, the subject of a dispute with the deP, was built by raymond guthrie a short distance from the docks in cortez. islander file Photo
February-May 2017. On Feb. 6, 2018, the DEP sued Guthrie. Karen Bell of A.P. Bell Fish Co. filed a motion May 4, 2018, claiming the fish processing company owned the land under Guthrie’s stilt-house and claiming historical significance for what they termed a “net camp.” Commercial fishers had used structures called net houses or camps to store, dry and mend nets from
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the late-1800s to the 1920s. The practice ended with the advent of monofilament nets in 1938. Bell withdrew her motion in January and, Feb. 18, 12th Circuit Court Judge Edward Nicholas ordered the removal of the structure and, if completed by June 3, the DEP agreed to waive $6,500 in civil penalties, as well as court costs. Guthrie filed May 6 for an extension claiming that because of COVID-19 shelter-in-place orders it would be “difficult if not impossible” to comply with the deadline. The DEP opposed Guthrie’s motion May 16, but verbally agreed to allow the extension. Reached by phone July 9, Guthrie acknowledged that the deadline had come and gone and said continued negotiations were in the hands of his attorney. “My lawyer is working on it,” he said. “I don’t know where they are in the process.” Guthrie added, “I’ve had camps all my life. My father had one. The (Florida Institute for Saltwater Fishing) has one out there and it looks terrible. They aren’t making them take theirs down,” he said. “Those are the only two out there.”
July 15, 2020 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 15 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................
FISH considers landscaping changes to Cortez preserve By ryan Paice islander reporter
The Florida Institute for Saltwater Heritage has more changes in store for its nature preserve. FISH board members met July 6 to discuss the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s proposed changes to the FISH preserve, including the removal of dead Australian pine and Brazilian pepper trees, as well as the addition of trees. FISH, a nonprofit with a mission to protect the village’s commercial fishing and maritime cultures, purchased the 100-acre preserve — located between the Florida Maritime Museum and Paradise Bay Estates — in 2000 and has worked with the FWC to reshape the land and restore its ecology. Part of the restoration included the removal of 97 Australian pine trees and Brazilian pepper trees, but the FWC only removed 50 after killing the plants with herbicide. Many of the 47 dead trees stand to provide shelter to birds and other wildlife, but some remain slated for removal. Board member Jane von Hahmann told the board that FWC restoration project manager Corey Anderson proposed removing five dead trees using FWC funds, but she asked him to remove 9-10 trees instead and he seemed receptive to the request. FWC also provided FISH with preliminary plans to plant up to 24 new trees, including gumbo limbos, but FISH members did not determine a layout for the new landscaping at the meeting. Instead, vice president David Cadmus proposed a meeting with Anderson to visit the preserve and discuss potential landscaping changes. He said they could get a better idea for additions in person. Von Hahmann told The Islander the nonprofit’s
florida institute for Saltwater Heritage board members Kaye Bell, angela collins, tim caniff, linda molto and Karen Bell discuss potential changes July 6 to the fiSH Preserve.
New board member, 4 incumbents elected A new face has joined the Florida Institute for Saltwater Heritage board in Cortez. FISH members voted Cortez resident Steve Baker onto the board June 5 to succeed Rose Lipke, an artist who has chaired the nonprofit’s annual fishing festival but did not seek reelection. Four incumbent board members — David Cadmus, Tim Caniff, Linda Molto and John Stevely — were reelected without opposition. The five board members will serve three-year terms. FISH, a nonprofit dedicated to preserving commercial fishing and maritime cultures as well as the
goal is to improve the area for public use, as well as use the land to host local school field trips about nature and the environment. However, she said restoration work, as well as landscaping, may take three years to complete.
coastal environment, has about 200 members. Members also appointed their officer positions, including treasurer, secretary, vice president and president. President Kim McVey, treasurer Mike Northfield and secretary Karen Bell retained their positions without opposition. The FISH vice presidency, however, changed hands, as Jane von Hahmann did not seek reelection to that position. Members elected Cadmus, the only nominee, to the post. — ryan Paice
The public can access the preserve from the Cortez Culture Center, 11655 Cortez Road W., Cortez, via an entrance behind the Florida Maritime Museum, 4415 119th St. W., or an access point along the south side of Cortez Road east of the culture center.
Rescued deer get surgery, royal treatment from island vets By Brook morrison islander reporter
After a little island living, Poncho and Lefty left for the countryside. Poncho and Lefty are Florida white-tailed fawns that underwent surgery at Island Animal Clinic, where they were named by owners, veterinarian Bill Bystrom and wife Jeannie. The deer then went to the Bystrom’s Holmes Beach home for 10 weeks of recovery. Lefty, a month-old fawn, arrived in April at the clinic in Holmes Beach, brought in by Gail Straight of Wildlife Inc., an education and rehabilitation center in Bradenton Beach. Lefty had suffered a broken femur. Dr. Connor Bystrom, Bill and Jeannie’s son, performed surgery on the fawn and then sent Lefty to his folks’ house to heal. “We work closely with Wildlife Inc., they probably have eight fawns right now and Gail supplied us with all the food and goat’s milk while we cared for the orphaned deer,” said Jeannie Bystrom.
“We feel everyone should do their part and give Two weeks later, Justin Matthews of Matthews Wildlife Rescue in Manatee County brought Poncho back somewhere and we have chosen wildlife,” she added. to the clinic. As for Poncho and Lefty, life as wild Florida The fawn had sustained a severe neck wound. “Poncho received sutures in his neck after the whitetail deer soon will resume. infection was cleared up and he is doing great,” Jeannie said. Poncho likely was attacked by a predator, perhaps a coyote. After their surgeries, Poncho and Lefty were housed together under the watchful eye of Dr. Bill Bystrom and grandson Hayes, 5. Bill changed bandages. Hayes liked to feed and nurture the animals. Lefty’s external fixture and pin were removed and Poncho’s sutures had healed by July 2, and it was time for the deer to be relocated. “We took them to some wildlife rehab friends in Myakka to release into a wild herd when they are old enough,” Jeannie wrote July 6 in an email to The Islander.
Hayes Bystrom, 5, feeds two rescued white-tailed deer — Poncho and lefty — at his grandparents’ barn in Holmes Beach. Veterinarian Bill Bystrom and wife Jeannie have owned island animal clinic for 32 years and their son connor, also a veterinarian, performed surgeries on both deer. “Helping wildlife is our way of giving back to the world,” said Jeannie Bystrom. islander courtesy Photos
a bandaged florida white-tailed deer recovers from surgery after being brought to island animal clinic by Justin matthews of matthews animal rescue. matthews rescues wildlife and is a master falconer.
two white-tailed deer are served lunch in June at Bill and Jean Bystrom’s home, where both animals were recovering from surgery. Poncho and lefty were housed together for 10 weeks before being sent for rehabilitation to myakka, where they eventually will be released into a wild herd.
Page 16 THE ISLANDER | islander.org July 15, 2020 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................
Cops & Courts
Kentucky woman arrested on DUI charge in BB
Staff reports
HB man arrested for DUI while driving a lawnmower A Holmes Beach man was arrested July 3 for driving a lawnmower under the influence of alcohol. Jack Scott Pritchard, 75, was arrested at 10:15 p.m. in the 200 block of 84th Street by two Holmes Beach police officers. According to the HBPD report, the officers had finished a previous call in the area and proceeded in their vehicle when they observed a person operating a riding lawnmower without lights on the road and the sidewalk along Gulf Drive. The report stated an officer driving a patrol vehicle had to brake quickly to avoid hitting Pritchard, who turned onto 85th Street, weaving on and off the roadway.
Upon stopping Pritchard, one of the officers reported he smelled intoxicants on Pritchard’s breath and his speech was slurred. The officers conducted a field sobriety test, which Pritchard failed. He refused to provide a breath sample. Pritchard was arrested for DUI and refusal to submit to the DUI test. He was transported to the Manatee County jail and released the next day on a $620 bond. His arraignment was set for Aug. 4. HBPD contacted Pritchard’s wife to collect the lawnmower. — chrisann allen
North Port woman arrested for DUI in Holmes Beach A North Port woman was arrested July 6 for driving under the influence of alcohol in Holmes Beach. Melanie Bioski, 31, was arrested at 6 p.m. in the 4400 block of Gulf Drive by a Holmes Beach police officer. According to the HBPD report, the officer was dispatched on report of a reckless driver heading north on Gulf Drive. A Bradenton Beach police officer already was following Bioski, due to a witness report of the motorist running red lights and almost striking a cyclist in a bike lane on Cortez Road West. When the HBPD officer arrived, the BBPD offi-
cer had stopped Bioski, who smelled of alcohol and appeared intoxicated. The HBPD officer observed multiple open containers of alcohol in Bioski’s vehicle, according to the report. The HBPD officer conducted a field sobriety test, which Bioski failed. She agreed to provide a breath sample, but repeatedly spit into the machine instead of blowing. Following four failed attempts, she was charged with refusal to blow. Bioski was arrested for DUI and transported to the Manatee County jail. She was released the next day on a $120 bond. — chrisann allen
Sarasota man arrested for DUI in Holmes Beach A Sarasota man was arrested July 3 for driving under the influence of alcohol in Holmes Beach. Dalton Culleny, 25, was arrested at 10 p.m. July 3 in the 200 block of Archer Way by a Holmes Beach police officer.
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According to the HBPD report, an officer stopped Culleny for careless driving and saw signs of impairment. The officer called for backup to perform a field sobriety test, which Culleny failed, and reported Culleny smelled of alcohol and his speech was slurred. His blood-alcohol level was 0.271 on two tests. The legal alcohol limit is 0.08. Culleny was arrested for DUI with a blood-alcohol content over 0.15, transported to the Manatee County jail and released the next day on a $120 bond. His arraignment was set for Aug. 4. — chrisann allen
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Manatee County sheriff’s deputies arrested Kentucky resident Tabitha Renee Engle, 38, July 5 for allegedly driving while under the influence of alcohol. Officers from the Bradenton Beach Police Department noticed Engle’s vehicle cross the median in a roundabout at the west end of Bridge Street, then swerve into the left lane as it continued north on Gulf Drive. After officers conducted a traffic stop, Engle fell out of her vehicle and began to run, according to a BBPD report. Officers detained Engle after a brief pursuit. The MCSO dispatched a traffic officer, who arrested Engle on suspicion of DUI. She was transported to the Manatee County jail and her vehicle was towed from the scene. Engle was released July 6 after posting a $120 bond. — ryan Paice
Streetlife
Staff reports
Island police reports
Anna Maria July 2, 200 block of Gladiolus Street, noise. The Manatee County Sheriff’s Office received a complaint about loud music from a neighboring property, where construction work was ongoing. A deputy responded but found no loud music and construction noise “within acceptable limits.” July 4, 300 block of Hammock Circle, fireworks. The MCSO took a complaint from a caller concerned about fireworks in the neighborhood. July 5, 300 block of Magnolia Avenue, noise. The MCSO received a complaint about loud noise at a neighboring property. The deputy reported children “laughing and giggling” as they played in a pool. No violation was issued. July 6, 200 block of Chilson Avenue, disturbance. The MCSO dispatched a deputy to an address where the complainant alleged people were “fighting and throwing each other into the poll.” The deputy reported people at the address were “not LEO friendly” but there was no disturbance. July 7, 100 block of Oak Avenue, found child. The MCSO responded to a report of a missing child who was playing at a property and then went missing, after possibly wandering to the beach. The child soon was reported found and not injured. Anna Maria is policed by the MCSO. Bradenton Beach July 1, Anna Maria Island Moose Lodge, 110 Gulf Drive S., property damage. Officers from the Bradenton Beach Police Department arrived at the lodge in response to reports that a man allegedly climbed onto PleaSe, See sTrEETLIFE, neXt Page
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July 15, 2020 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 17 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................
Island law enforcement contains July 4 holiday traffic, issues By ryan Paice islander reporter
This year’s Fourth of July weekend lacked organized fireworks displays, but Holmes Beach didn’t lack visitors or traffic. Holmes Beach Police Chief Bill Tokajer said July 8 the city’s license plate readers counted 109,723 vehicles entering the municipality July 2-5, an increase of 1,752 over the same four days in 2019. July 3 and July 4 were the busiest days of the long weekend, with 29,534 vehicles entering Holmes Beach Friday, July 3, and 28,024 vehicles July 4. About 25,000 vehicles entered the city July 5, when afternoon rainstorms sent some beachgoers home. Nevertheless, Tokajer said HBPD officers had no issues with the increase in visitors. “We had a lot of people out on the island, but it was pretty uneventful,” he said. “We didn’t have a lot of concerns or issues.” Tokajer said most people observed while visiting the island over the holiday weekend complied with social distancing guidelines and Holmes Beach’s emergency ordinance requiring they wear face masks to enter businesses. HBPD officers had not ticketed anyone for violating the ordinance as of July 10, instead relying on verbal warnings to gain compliance. There were, however, three DUI arrests. Officers from the Bradenton Beach Police Department had a similarly hassle-free holiday weekend, according to BBPD Detective Sgt. Lenard Diaz. “There were people out here, but there were no parking issues or anything like that,” he said July 9. STREETLIFE continued from Page 16
the roof and fell through a canopy awning. The officers found the man, who smelled of alcohol, bleeding but conscious on the patio floor. The man was transported to Blake Medical Center in Bradenton for evaluation and was charged with property damage due to criminal mischief. BBPD polices Bradenton Beach. Cortez No new reports. MCSO polices Cortez. Holmes Beach July 1, Waterline Resort Marina & Beach Club, 5325 Marina Drive, information. An officer was called to the resort to investigate a possible bullet hole in a window in a guest room. Photos were taken and it was determined that the prior guest in the room would be billed for the damage. July 2, Anna Maria Island Beach Cafe, 4000 block of Gulf Drive, trespass. A Manatee County code enforcement officer called the police department to trespass a man and woman from the cafe. The man was causing a disturbance and the woman appeared intoxicated. Both were issued trespass warnings and left the premises. July 3, 700 block of Manatee Avenue West, traffic. The police chief observed a motorcyclist traveling in a bike lane. An officer was called and determined the
“There were no incidents. It was actually a nice holiday weekend.” Diaz said one issue the BBPD dealt with was people setting off fireworks from the beach. Manatee County prohibits the unpermitted use of fireworks and people can be fined up to $500 for a single offense. Diaz said BBPD officers didn’t issue any citations, but they did give verbal warnings to some individuals. Diaz added that the city was less crowded during the holiday weekend than in past years. “I don’t know if it was because of the COVID-19 pandemic or if people just knew there wouldn’t be fireworks,” he said. “But it was definitely slower. A lot slower than a normal Fourth of July weekend.” Anna Maria Mayor Dan Murphy also remarked on the holiday weekend, saying it was slower than the “past five years.” He said no crimes were reported and no arrests made in the city over the holiday. However, he noted that “fireworks displays were confiscated on the beaches and elsewhere.” Despite this year’s slow Independence Day, Murphy said he’s planning for future holidays. “Labor Day will present a new set of challenges and we are planning for that now,” he said. fireworks explode over the treetops on the beach July 4 near 73rd Street in Holmes Beach. fireworks could be observed from numerous locations on the beach in the three island cities, although none were permitted. island law enforcement reported some confiscations, but no arrests for illegal fireworks. islander Photos: nenita daguinotas
male driver did not have a motorcycle endorsement. The man was issued citations for both violations. July 3, 4100 block of Gulf Drive, traffic. An officer received a license plate reader hit on a vehicle tag. Upon stopping the male motorist, the officer determined his license was suspended. The motorist’s license and tag were seized and the owner arranged to have the vehicle towed. July 4, 100 block of 37th Street, alcohol. While on beach control, an officer observed a man and woman drinking alcohol on the beach. They were both issued citations. July 5, 2900 block of Avenue E, domestic battery. A woman walked into the police station to report domestic battery against her by her boyfriend earlier that night. Police interviewed the woman, her boyfriend and witnesses to the argument. Capias requests were issued for both parties. July 5, 100 block of 50th Street, parking. A vehicle was parked blocking the emergency vehicle beach access. A parking violation was issued and the vehicle was about to be towed when the owner arrived and paid a unhook fee to the towing company. July 6, 5400 block of Marina Drive, camping. An officer on patrol observed a man sleeping on a bench in the plaza. He was issued a notice to appear. July 6, 6800 block of Palm Drive, information. An
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officer responded to a call in reference to a missing RV license plate. The owner was issued a case number and a lost license plate form. July 6, 500 block of 72nd Street, information. A person called to report a handgun had been left at a vacation rental. The property manager turned the gun over to the HBPD and arrangements were made for the gun to be returned to the owner. July 6, 300 block of 58th Street, suspicious circumstances. A man reported that three men unknown to him entered his home several days prior and requested the use of his computer. Upon calling a technician to investigate the computer, a security breach was determined. The man was issued a case number. July 7, Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce, 5313 Gulf Drive, information. An officer was dispatched to the chamber office on a report of possible fraudulent checks. The bank was contacted, the account closed and a police report was issued. HBPD polices Holmes Beach. Streetlife is based on incident reports and narratives from the BBPD, HBPD and MCSO. 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.
Page 18 THE ISLANDER | islander.org July 15, 2020 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................
Gathering
Collecting soles
gloria dei lutheran church, 6608 marina drive, Holmes Beach, is collecting new shoes for disadvantaged children in manatee county before a new school year. Shoes can be dropped off at the church’s north parking lot through July 16 and a drive-thru drop-off will be 10 a.m.-noon Saturday, July 18. “there are no specific size needs. However, we have been told that older boys’ shoes are typically what they get the least of,” said the rev. doug Kings. the church also is collecting cash contributions for Project Heart. islander courtesy Photo
Tidings
Longboat Island Chapel, longboatislandchapel.org. Roser Church, roserchurch.com.
REGULAR WORSHIP
ACTIVITIES & EVENTS
Monday-Friday 8:30 a.m. — St. Bernard Catholic Church, 248 S. Harbor Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-4769. Thursday 9:30 a.m. — Church of the Annunciation, 4408 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-1638. Saturday 4 p.m. — St. Bernard Catholic Church. Sunday 8:30 a.m. — St. Bernard Catholic Church. 8:30 a.m. — Roser Memorial Community Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Information: 941-778-0414. 9:30 a.m. — CrossPointe Fellowship, 8605 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-0719. 9:30 a.m. — Episcopal Church of the Annunciation. 10 a.m. — Roser Church. 10:30 a.m. — CrossPointe Fellowship.
Through Thursday, July 16 Project Heart drive-thru new shoe drop off, Gloria Dei, 6608 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-1813. Saturday, July 18 10 a.m.-noon — Project Heart new shoe drop off, Gloria Dei. Please, send notices to calendar@islander.org.
Gloria Dei tightens parking
Gloria Dei Lutheran Church informed members in a newsletter that the congregation council enacted a policy prohibiting unauthorized parking on church property. Signs were to be installed on the Marina Drive parking lot and chains will be used to close off the lot entries from Marina and Palm drives. The announcement said the council was responding to Holmes Beach’s new parking restrictions. The church is at 6608 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. For more information, call 941-778-1813.
ONLINE WORSHIP Christ Church of Longboat Key, christchurchlbk.org. CrossPointe Fellowship, Facebook. Catholic Diocese of Venice, Spectrum cable TV. Episcopal Church of the Annunciation, Facebook. Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, Facebook.
Milestone
Celebrating 63 years maynard “Butch” Pastorius and wife delores “dee” were planning a quiet coVid-19 appropriate celebration for their 63rd wedding anniversary July 13. delores is a watercolor artist and maynard is a boat captain and a retired u.S. coast guard reservist. they reside in San remo Shores in cortez, and say they look forward to many more sunsets together, hopefully with their family, including four children, eight grandchildren and nine great-grandkids.
Obituary
Marian Gertrude Van Winkle
Marian Gertrude (Kirz) Van Winkle died April 8. She was born to Victor and Gertrude (Weber) in New York City. Her parents bought a summer home in the Mount View section of Wayne, New Jersey, in 1940 and that was where she met her future husband, Bernard. After they were married Oct. 6, 1951, she transferred her job from New York Bell to New Jersey Bell. She worked there for 37 years. She first lived in Clifton, New Jersey, then moved to Oakland, New Jersey, where she joined the Women’s Club of Oakland and later became its president. She retired from “Ma Bell” at 55 and moved to Holmes Beach with her husband. On the island, she started her life of volunteering and traveling around the world. She was the president of the Venice Diocese Women’s Council and was twice president of St. Bernard Catholic Church Women’s Council. She also joined the Red Hat Society, the local Women’s Club, the Off-Stage Ladies and the N.J. Bell Pioneers. She was a regular contributor to The Islander of announcements for the groups she served. She really enjoyed life. A memorial service was held in Riverdale, New Jersey. Memorial donations can be made to your favorite charity. She is survived by her sister, Catherine Dec and her husband, Henry; and many nieces and nephews and their families.
At your service
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.
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July 15, 2020 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 19 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................
Testing follows Longboat Key 26M-gallon sewage spill By lisa neff islander editor
The eyes were on the ugly. And the noses were pinched by visitors July 9 to Neal Preserve on the west end of Perico Island on Anna Maria Sound. The water near the shore of the Manatee County park appeared motionless, covered by thick mats of a brown-green muck. The stench could be sniffed out from the parking lot and multiple visitors to the preserve later asked via social media, “Is it the sewage?” It was an expected question, given the smell and the appearance of the muck following a sewage spill in June from a wastewater line between Longboat Key and the mainland. It probably wasn’t sewage by the shore at Neal or the One Particular Harbour Marina, also on Anna Maria Sound at the west end of Perico Island, but the muck — known by locals as “brown gumbo” — might be sewage-related. Testing may tell. “It looks from our experience to be a lyngbya-like bloom,” Justin Bloom, executive director of Suncoast Waterkeeper, an environmental watchdog organization focused on water quality and water policy, said July 8. “We took samples and sent them to the state lab in St. Pete.… They are going to test and hopefully will be able to identify the bloom and its concentration.” Bloom said another question to answer is whether there’s a connection between the sewage spilled and the bloom’s appearance. “We’re paying a lot of attention to this,” he said. “The question has been posed: ‘Is there a relationship?’ We don’t know. But we know there’s a relationship between algae blooms and excess nutrients. And
Did you know?
Suncoast Waterkeeper monitors water quality in the region and maintains a database of test results on its website. For more information, go online to suncoastwaterkeeper.org and click on the tab for water quality monitoring.
DEP to host Anna Maria mangrove-trimming workshop
Learn what you need to know about mangrove trimming. The Florida Department of Environmental Protection will present a virtual workshop on mangrove trimming regulations at the Anna Maria City Commission meeting at 2 p.m. Thursday, July 16. Anna Maria officials have long expressed the desire to protect the city’s mangroves, but city attorney Becky Vose advised against passing policies that might conflict with state regulations. So the city reached out to the DEP, seeking guidance on how to regulate trimming at the municipal level. The workshop will be open to the public in person at city hall, 10005 Gulf Drive, or via teleconference. Directions to attend the virtual meeting will be posted to the city’s website, www.cityofannamaria.com. — ryan Paice
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the leaked material remains.” The mangroves provide a natural treatment, according to the town, and ESA indicated no actions are recommended to the land area at this time. • Initial testing did not indicate “any significant water quality concerns associated with the leak within Sarasota Bay,” the town stated, adding the amount of sewage that migrated into the bay is not known. “There is also no observed discharge plume from the land to the bay edge nor extending waterward at this time,” the town said. Harmer said July 10 that “though the leak was not directly under the bay and the pipe was not discharging directly into the bay, the town staff indicated to the FDEP that it is possible some of the discharge reached the bay.” Bloom told The Islander July 8 that Suncoast Waterkeeper was conducting more water sampling near the spill site and the Florida Department of Health also was testing water quality, in addition to Longboat Key and the DEP monitoring. “So far, those results don’t show widespread water quality impacts,” Bloom said. “We were fortunate that there wasn’t more impact,” he also said. “And we were super-fortunate thick mats of what appear to be lyngbya — an that the spill didn’t occur under the bay. That was the HaB — pool on the surface water July 9 at the one nightmare scenario.” Particular Harbour marina, 12324 manatee ave. W., And it remains the nightmare scenario. Perico island. islander Photos: lisa neff Town officials have discussed replacement of the pipeline and recently outlined a design and permitting 26 million-28 million gallons of sewage brings with process for a “redundant” pipeline. it a massive amount of nitrogen.” “We really need to prioritize maintaining our environmental infrastructure, including our sewage Sewage in Sarasota Bay systems,” Bloom said, adding that Sarasota Bay is The sewage spilled from a pipeline servicing resilient, but “there’s a tipping point.” Longboat Key that carries about 2 million gallons of wastewater a day. The spill began as early as June 17 and ended June 30. Initial reports from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection indicated 26 million-28 million gallons of raw sewage seeped into Sarasota Bay from the break. But the town of Longboat Key, in a press statement July 8, said, “It is unknown at this time how much material leaked from the pipe, but we believe it may be considerably less than preliminary estimates.” The estimates will be refined, based on a thirdparty investigation into the leak point, system flows and hydraulic analysis, according to the statement signed by town manager Tom Harmer. The town was working with the DEP, as well as Environmental Science Associates, a consulting firm, on testing, monitoring and investigating the incident. Mapping preserve work The forcemain leak occurred about 350 feet inland the robinson Preserve map indicates sections from the waters of Sarasota Bay on a mangrove-covof the paved Spoonbill and Kayak trails that ered area at Long Bar Pointe, which is owned by are closed through July 27 while restoration developer Carlos Beruff. work continues. also, there will be no access Aerial photographs at the site, posted on social from the 17th avenue entrance on manatee media by Suncoast Waterkeeper, showed excavation avenue while a contractor does hydrological of the mangrove forest, which was required to reach work in the expansion-area waterways before the spill site. It is not known how much of the forest they are connected to tidal waters. the county was damaged or destroyed. announced in may plans for the $2.8 million Additional details released by Longboat Key July restoration project, projected to continue for six 8 and in a statement from Harmer include: more months in the west Bradenton preserve. “The leaked material was diffused within a large islander courtesy image mangrove-populated area and a significant portion of
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Page 20 THE ISLANDER | islander.org July 15, 2020 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................
Outreach on the beach emily mccallen, 7, of milton, georgia, displays a handout June 4 on the importance of dark skies during sea turtle nesting season. Suzi fox, amitW executive director, gave the poster to emily and her family.
Nesting notes
members of the mccallen family of milton, georgia, display temporary tattoos supplied June 4 by amitW. islander Photos: Katie mccallen
By ChrisAnn Allen
Sea turtle activity spikes around beach renourishment
The beaches are getting bigger. And so is the habitat. Beaches undergoing renourishment this summer will benefit nesting sea turtles in future years. However, this year, sea turtles nesting on Anna Maria Island and the organization that helps protect them must circumvent large dredgallen ing equipment that is pumping sand onto the beach from offshore sea beds. Following a slight decline in daily nesting numbers, Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring executive director Suzi Fox said six loggerheads nested overnight July 8, just outside of the renourishment construction zone near 77th Street in Holmes Beach, the first night of the project. “We thought they’d stay clear of it, but they were all around the renourishment area,” Fox said, adding that another turtle crawled into the fenced construction zone, but did not nest. She said the crew stopped all activities to watch the turtle, before it returned to the Gulf of Mexico. Manatee County started its beach renourishment project on the beachfront at 77th Street in Holmes
Beach and will continue south to Longboat Pass, moving several blocks each day, barring difficulties or weather delays. Since nesting season started May 1, nests laid on beaches slated for renourishment are being relocated to beaches in Anna Maria to avoid being covered with sand or damaged by equipment. As of July 9, turtle watch volunteers had spotted and relocated 285 nests in the project zone that were moved to areas north — in Anna Maria. Additionally, 90 nests were laid and stayed on the beach in Anna Maria. Since the project started, AMITW volunteer Skip Coyne has been on the beach alongside the contractors
Beach renourishment commences July 8 on the shore at 77th Street in Holmes Beach. amitW is relocating sea turtle nests from the area to hand-dug nests in anna maria to protect eggs and hatchlings from being buried by the sand that is pumped ashore. islander Photo: chrisann allen
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navigating equipment. Coyne locates nests and stakes them off to await a sunrise crew of AMITW volunteers who collect the eggs — about 100 per nest — and transplant them to hand-dug nests on beaches in Anna Maria. If a nest is laid in an area where the equipment cannot pass, the nest must be moved that night. Nests laid on beaches after the equipment passes are staked and left to hatch. All nests laid in the renourishment zone will be monitored by AMITW. Volunteers collect data, including the number of hatched, unhatched or partially developed eggs, which is shared with local, state and federal agencies for conservation purposes. Fox said the sea turtles that nested overnight July 8 might return to drop another clutch of eggs in the same area in about two weeks. Females return to the beach to nest at intervals of 12-17 days. Hopefully, the equipment will be farther south by that time, Fox said. “Everything has been very smooth and moving fast,” she said July 9. “The teams are working in unison and the process is phenomenal.” For more information about turtle watch, visit AMITW at islandturtlewatch.com, or contact Fox at 941-778-5638 or suzilfox@gmail.com. Report sick, injured, entangled or dead sea turtles or birds to the FWC Wildlife Alert Hotline at 1-888404-3922.
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Benthic lyngbya mats are usually dark – blue, black or brown — while the mats that float to the surface oxidize, turning brownish yellow-orange on the top with blue-green filaments or streamers on the underside. islander Photo: courtesy university of florida
By Lisa Neff
There’s a stink on the shore
Lyngbya. The word sounds lovely to the ear, like the name of a secret cove. But take a whiff of what experts suspect are lyngbya mats — thick and brown and stinky algae — along the shore at Neal Preserve and at the One Particular Harbour Marina, both on Perico Island. The odor and sight might be familiar, as well as unpleasant. A year ago in July the foul stuff was floating on the east and west sides of the Intracoastal Waterway and had a heavy presence in island canals. Islanders, not nouveau islandneff ers but the born-and-raised here types, then talked about “brown gumbo.” Lyngbya might be back on the water’s surface and, following a sewage spill from Longboat Key’s wastewater pipeline to the mainland, lyngbya is back in the news. So this Sandscript takes a look at lyngbya, relying on collective information from the Sarasota Bay Estuary Program, University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences Extension at the University of Florida and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.
What is a harmful algal bloom? HABs are algal species that can form large blooms that adversely impact the ecosystem’s health or human health. The abundance and severity of HABs, especially cyanobacteria, have increased in Florida and around the world in recent decades.
Where is lyngbya found? Lyngbya grows naturally in subtropical and tropical waters, including in Sarasota Bay, but lyngbya cells also can be transferred from one body of water to another on boat hulls, in bilge water, by weather events and by many animals. A NOAA map of Florida shows documented blooms on the east and west coasts in the lower half of the peninsula and it states, “Harmful algal blooms have become increasingly problematic in the nearshore waters of Florida.” One environmental consultant’s FAQ sheet on lyngbya called it a “survival specialist,” aggressive and What is lyngbya? Lyngbya is a filamentous cyanobacteria — a blue- difficult to control. green algae — diverse in color, genetics and chemical composition. The diversity of lyngbya species in Flor- What factors cause lyngbya to bloom? Changes in temperature and increases or pulses in ida is greater than previously recognized and lyngbya a nutrient source such as nitrogen or phosphorus — or can be found in fresh and brackish water. Benthic lyngbya mats are usually dark blue or both — can cause a bloom. Nutrients can enter the water by way of stormwater black while the mats that float to the surface oxidize, turning yellow-orange on the top with blue-green fila- runoff, groundwater and streams and rivers, as well as pollution incidents — sewage spills — and fertilizer ments or streamers on the underside. And yes, lyngbya gets classified as a harmful algal application. Increasing paved surfaces can increase the output bloom.
of sediment and nutrients in coastal waters. Last summer, when mats clogged waterways throughout Robinson Preserve in west Bradenton, the county parks and natural resources department said Saharan dust, rich in iron, could be a factor. What harm can come from a bloom? Lyngbya can disrupt and damage ecosystems and some species can be toxic to wild and domestic animals, as well as pose health risks to humans. Also, lyngbya mats can pool and pile up. They can smother bay bottom habitats, including seagrasses. And stink. On the surface, they can blanket waters, emitting a strong, sewage-like odor, while also impeding navigation and recreation. Rainfall, which cools the water, can help dissipate the blooms. So look for dark skies. And hope for rain.
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Page 22 THE ISLANDER | islander.org July 15, 2020 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................
Skimming
AMI
Bonner Joy
Finding your way
The long awaited, much-touted new hotel — in fact, the first ever hotel on Perico Island — is opening this week. Set your GPS for the Compass Hotel by Margaritaville, and take a look for yourself. General manager France Langan threw the doors open to The Islander for a preview July 9 — and everything appeared to hit the mark. You’ll enter an expansive lobby that covers comfort, style and a nature-inspired design on every point of the compass. There are views of Anna Maria Sound and One Particular Harbor Marina. There’s a cozy area for dining and cocktails and views of the resort-style pool, a vast porch and pool deck for lounging and, just beyond the pool, the Floridays restaurant awaits opening next week. You’ll find amenities similar to a resort in paradise spilling over, especially in the drink blender. There are plenty of tropical touches, but no “Parrotheads” were observed during my visit. They soon will come. There are plenty of comforts to attract guests. And people to help guests feel comfortable. They were training — one session after another — with a focus on guest comfort during my visit. The leader of the team tossed a beach ball and asked a question of the receiver: What do you do
gm france langan is eager to greet guests to the compass. islander Photos: Bonner Joy
to relax? The response, “Go to the beach,” elicited applause. Hotel guests will be invited to start their morning with a complimentary American breakfast buffet, and light snacks and refreshments will be served throughout the day in the open lobby and on a wide veranda facing the marina. For the evening, they offer guests a cocktail hour and socializing. And, surprise, the public
is welcome. Langan says the hotel is opening with a staff of 120 “artists” — islanders and towners — faces and names you may know or recognize at the front desk through to the back offices. Kudos to Susanne Arbanas, who has retained her passion and her title, director of contagious enthusiasm, and Nicole Pelkey, head of HR and accounting. The hotel has 123 guest rooms and suites in six stories, a fitness center, meeting room, and what they’re calling a “living lounge,” where you can grab a book, play board games or cards and start up conversations. There’s a “wow” factor on entering the front door, with amenities suited to a traveling troubadour. This Compass Hotel is the first of more to come in Jimmy Buffett’s music portfolio, that also includes retirement villages, restaurants and bars. A deluxe room with king bed and a marina-Anna Maria Sound-Sunshine Skyway Bridge view includes a balcony and Margaritaville-branded amenities. Room rates are $170-$460. Has anyone seen my shaker of salt? Which way’s the rental car? Fins to the left, fins to the right. Maybe you’ll answer the call of “shrimp beginning to boil.” Or maybe a cheeseburger in paradise? Don’t blow out your flip-flops getting over the bridge, Anna Maria Island, but this may be the change in latitude you’ve been seeking. Set your heading to 27° 29’ 50’’ N, 82° 41’ 08’’ W.
the view July 9 from the balcony of a room on the fourth floor at the compass is stunning.
a shark hovers over the outdoor bar July 9, where a tarp protects the bar surface during a preview of floridays Woodfire grill and Bar at the compass Hotel. the restaurant is set to open July 22-23.
Center soccer reboot, weekly horseshoe winners, KRC golf results By Kevin P. cassidy islander reporter
After a closure due to COVID-19 issues, the Center of Anna Maria Island planned to open its doors at 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria, July 13 with some procedures to help ensure the safety of members, guests and staff. First, everyone will need to wear a face mask to enter, per the city’s face mask order. In addition, everyone will be required to have a temperature check at the front desk. Other safety procedures include cassidy an equipment wipe down before and after use in the fitness center. The adult soccer league will resume play on the field with week 2 matchups July 16. The first match between Gulfview Windows and Doors and Sato Real Estate will kick off at 6 p.m., followed by Vintage Beach vs. Blalock Walters at 7 p.m. and Signature Granite facing off with Moss Builders at 8 p.m. The evening concludes with Beach Bums battling Ross Built in the 9 p.m. match. Here’s hoping that COVID-19 cases begin to subside and we return to some level of normalcy — whether for sports, fitness, school or everyday life. Horseshoe news There was an outright champ at the pits during last week’s horseshoe action at Anna Maria City Hall. Tim Sofran walked his way to the winner’s circle July 8 after forging the lone 3-0 record during pool play.
The July 11 games looked to be heading to a playoff, but Sofran had other ideas. His final ringer completed a 21-20 come-from-behind victory, dashing the hopes of two waiting teams that had 2-1 records and keeping Sofran perfect for the week. Play gets underway at 9 a.m. Wednesdays and Saturdays at the Anna Maria pits. Warm ups begin at 8:45 a.m. followed by random team selection. There is no charge to play and everyone is welcome.
Chuck Patrick outlasted John Kolojeski in a tight match that saw Patrick finish at plus-4, while Kolojeksi was a point back in second place. The women were on the course July 7 for a ninehole individual-low-net match in two flights. Sue Wheeler carded a 1-under-par 31 to grab first place in Flight A, three strokes ahead of second-place finisher Deb Wohlers. The men were back on the course July 9 for a nine-hole scramble that saw the team of Gerry Dahl, Marty Hicks, Ken Nagengast and Tom Nelson combine Key Royale golf news on a 3-under-par 29 to earn clubhouse bragging rights Golf action continued at the Key Royale Club in for the day. The team of Ken Butler, Jon Holcomb Holmes Beach with the men teeing off July 6 for a and Scott Mitchell were alone in second place with a nine-hole modified-Stableford system match. 2-under-par 30.
FWC considers changing stone crab regulations The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission will meet virtually July 22 and July 23 — at 9 a.m. both days. The agenda includes proposed action on regulatory changes for stone crab landings due to what the FWC calls “a long-term decline in the average annual harvest of stone crab claws despite an increasing trend in market price.” Staff will present proposed final rules for commercial and recreational stone crab harvesters, including: • Moving the end of stone crab season from May 15 to April 15; • Extending the post-season trap retrieval period from 5 to 10 days;
• Requiring a 2 3/16-inch escape ring in crab traps before the 2023-24 season; Increasing the minimum claw size limit by 1/8 inch to 2 7/8 inches. The meeting will be held virtually to maintain COVID-19 social distancing guidelines. The Florida Channel will broadcasting live video coverage at thefloridachannel.org and participants watching via the Florida Channel can utilize the telephone conference line for public comment. The FWC also will discuss imperiled species guidelines and draft rules for invasive reptiles. For details on how to call, go online to myfwc. com. — lisa neff
July 15, 2020 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 23 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................
Mangrove snapper, other species on the hook — despite heat By capt. danny Stasny islander reporter
Fishing around Anna Maria Island is producing a “delicious” outcome. With the arrival of the hatch bait, mangrove snapper are moving into local waters in respectable numbers. Any area where structure exists — a pier, bridges, sea wall, wreck, reef or rockpile — these fish will be congregating. I’m even seeing them on some Stasny of the deeper grass flats, where there are traces of rubble or debris on the bottom. And they come out delicious almost any way you cook them. Another follower of the hatch bait is Spanish mackerel, which also have shown up in good numbers. Fishing in Tampa Bay over structure, especially around the Sunshine Skyway Bridge, is resulting in as many macks as a person can catch. In shallower water, where grass flats meet with mangrove shorelines, oyster bars or the mouth of a creek, catch-andrelease snook fishing is quite good — especially during the early morning when the water is slightly cooler from the night before. Combine this with a strong moving tide and you have the perfect recipe to hook up with some linesiders. Once the sun moves higher in the sky and the water temps rise, it’s time to move to some deeper grass flats. In these areas, catch-and-release spotted seatrout can be found lurking in the depths, waiting to ambush unsuspecting bait — you just need to make sure there is a hook and line connected to the bait. Mixed in are Spanish mackerel, mangrove snapper, jack crevalle and ladyfish. This action can produce a great experience on light-tackle spinning gear. Lastly, catch-and-release shark fishing is still going strong. Using fresh-cut pieces of mackerel — make sure it’s legal-sized — is great for bait. Most catches are blacktip sharks, although don’t be surprised if you encounter a big bull or hammerhead. For my Southernaire charters, I’m dialed in on the mangrove snapper bite in Tampa Bay. Light fluorocarbon leaders and small hooks are resulting in limits of these local favorites. It’s still early in the bite, as most catches are in the 12-inch range, but fish 14-16 inches are being caught. After targeting the snapper, I’m letting my clients enjoy some Spanish mackerel action. This bite is about as good as it gets. Baits aren’t lasting five seconds before they’re chomped by a hungry mack. Sportfishing the flats for snook also is worthwhile. On mornings when the tide and water temp are right, I’m seeing some amazing catch-and-release snook action. Free-lined live shiners around mangroves are meeting their destiny in short fashion. Most hookups are 20-30 inches. Finally, spotted seatrout are rounding out the day for the catch-and-release species at the deeper grass flats. This bite is convenient when the shallow water becomes too hot for the fish. I’m also seeing
Anna Maria Island Tides
Date
AM
July 15 July 16 July 17 July 18 July 19 July 20 July 21 July 22
8:03a 8:43a 12:19a 10:04a 10:47a 2:40a 3:02a 3:22a
HIGH
PM
HIGH
2.2 10:57p 2.4 — 1.5 9:23a 2.6 — 2.8 — 1.5 11:32a 1.5 12:19p 1.5 1:08p
1.4 — 2.5 — — 2.8 2.9 2.9
AM
LOW
1:21a 1.1 1:56a 1.3 2:30a 1.4 6:12p -0.2 6:52p -0.3 4:33a 1.4 5:27a 1.4 6:24a 1.3
PM
3:48p 4:41p 5:29p — — 7:32p 8:11p 8:50p
LOW
AM City Pier tides; Cortez high tides 7 minutes later — lows 1:06 later
Southernaire Fishing Charters
Moon
0.4 0.2 0.0 — — -0.3 New -0.3 -0.2
alex lawson and max Willmer, visiting from Pennsylvania, fished inshore July 2, using shiners to catch — and after a trophy photo — release numerous snook with capt. Warren girle.
macks, jack crevalle and mangrove snapper in the deep grass. Jim Malfese at the Rod & Reel Pier is seeing the arrival of mangrove snapper at Anna Maria Island’s northernmost pier. Pier fishers using live shrimp as bait are being rewarded with limits of these tasty fish. Light leaders and small hooks are in your best interest when targeting a wary snapper. Some 15-pound fluorocarbon and a No. 4 hook is ideal. Others using shrimp are targeting catch-and-release redfish and snook. Those casting spoons or jigs from the pier are hooking into Spanish mackerel and ladyfish. Capt. Warren Girle was working inshore this past week, fishing over structure and hardbottom areas, producing mangrove snapper and Spanish mackerel for his anglers. Both are responding well to small live shiners as bait, while jack crevalle and juvenile grouper also are coming to the party. Moving to the grass flats, Girle is finding good quantities of catch-and-release spotted seatrout, in areas with a depth of 5-8 feet. On shallow flats adjacent to mangrove shorelines, Girle’s clients are hooking up with plenty of catch-and-release snook. Most catches are 20-30 inches. Capt. Aaron Lowman is finding good action while casting over structure in the Gulf of Mexico and Tampa Bay. Mangrove snapper are the primary catch, but macks also are abundant this time of year. Also taking the hook for Lowman’s anglers are gag grouper, jack crevalle and some Key West grunts. In shallower water over grass, Lowman’s clients are enjoying some action on catch-and-release spotted
seatrout. Free-lining shiners in depths of 3-7 feet is resulting in numerous trout, as well as ladyfish, mackerel and jack crevalle. Lowman also is finding catch-and-release snook fishing to be reliable along the mangrove shorelines of Tampa Bay. Some mornings are resulting in 20-30 linesider hookups for his charters. Capt. Jason Stock is fishing slightly closer to shore than normal due to strong winds from the west, but this hasn’t curtailed the action on his boat. Targeting bonito around nearshore structure is producing great action on light tackle. These miniature tunas can drop a spool of line before the unsuspecting angler has a chance to even crank the handle of the reel. Also around nearshore structure, Stock is finding a good permit bite and plenty of 3-8 foot sharks. Lastly, some large over-slot catch-and-release snook are giving Stock’s clients a good fight. Capt. David White also is working inshore, hiding from the offshore wind and rough water. Targeting catch-and-release snook along the mangrove shorelines of Tampa Bay is providing some great action for White and his clients. Moving out to deeper water, White is putting clients on plenty of mangrove snapper and Spanish mackerel from the structures — over hard bottom, wrecks and reefs. Lastly, shark fishing is working well for those anglers seeking a thrill. Blacktip, bull and hammerhead sharks are taking the big bait. Send high-resolution photos and fishing reports to fish@islander.org.
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Page 24 THE ISLANDER | islander.org July 15, 2020 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................
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ANNOUNCEMENTS
FISHING
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RDI CONSTRUCTION INC.
CBC 1253471
loSt in tHe water at Bungalow resort, a gold-and-adiantum ring. Sentimental. reward. email cohenakos@aol.com.
Residential & Condo Renovations Kitchens • Bath • Design Service Carpentry • Flooring • Painting Commercial & Residential
References available • 941-720-7519
Bimini Bay Sailing: Small sailboat rentals and instruction. day. Week. month. Sunfish, laser, Windrider 17 and Precision 15. call Brian at 941-685-1400. Wanted: docK SPace/boat lift/boat slip to rent or buy for 23-foot boat on anna maria island. 203-247-6405. Wanted: Boat SliP to rent with lift for my 25-foot boat. Scott, 404-242-6666.
AdoptA-Pet
looKing to PurcHaSe a boat dock, 25 to 36 feet in anna maria. Please call or text with any opportunities. 267-664-4544. 2004 Proline 22-foot walk-around cuddy. 2009 Suzuki 250-hp. 813-240-2697.
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.
PropertyWatch By Jesse Brisson
On vacation.
$YDLODEOH $We C A T S P A W
O P H E L I A
A P E X A M S
C A B S
U L A N
T A S E
T R I R E M E
T H E F A T E S
A R T S C A M S
R S E E N D S D U D E G A L Y S L E E A T C H C H A S O U C R I T R A E E Z Y A Z A L M W O E W S R E A T B O T E K O L I A O R Y I E
L A P
C R E V I C E S
S T Y X P I E A L V M E S T O R N E L E A T Y
H O A R S E R
E R O S E L A M A R K
A S T E S S E T H R A H Y M I S R O O T T A P A O W D I N P R E A C T I N H E P O N E N T S L E O I I N S O L S C L O T E R S S S A M S W A B W E L C O I N E N N E D G E S
P A T E L H E R N E S T S M E A R
A S P I L O U G L U M N S P O D I R M T R E C H O I E N T L L U B O F N O L I T M E N B O N E P E T E S N A R C L U E E D A T N I V O T T E E S E
JeSSie’S iSland Store has immediate openings for full- and part-time cashiers for both day and night shifts. also, stock person 4-5 hours per day, 5-6 days per week. apply in person at 5424 marina drive, Holmes Beach or call 941-778-6903. mad marKS Stereo Warehouse is now hiring for car audio and marine audio installers. apply in person, call or text, 941-7041957. email resume to madmarksstereo@ gmail.com. mad marks Stereo, 3007 first St., Bradenton. SeeKing adminiStratiVe aSSiStant: excellent communication and computer skills. full-time, plus benefits. 941-778-1541. info@amichamber.org. caregiVer/HouSeKeePer urgently needed: this is a live-out position, work from tuesday to friday. $750/weekly. childcare and light housekeeping. must be able to interact with children, speak english and non-smoker. must have references and be responsible. if interested, you can reach mrs. connell at catconnell72@gmail. com. rePorter Wanted: full- to part-time. Print media, newspaper experience required. apply via email with letter of interest to news@islander.org. KIDS FOR HIRE reSPonSiBle, PerSonaBle 14-year-old available to babysit, dog walk/sit, yardwork, other odd jobs (negotiable pay). rory, 347949-0503. rorywbosborne@gmail.com. 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
SPonSored By
ANSWERS TO JULY 15 PUZZLE
retail Store emPloyee needed for busy shop. pack-and-ship company. customer service skills a plus. Please, call frank @ 941-778-1911.
C H A T T E R F E T E R E B U K E S
AMI CENTRE, 3218 E. BAY DRIVE, HOLMES BEACH 941 778-7978 • WWW.ISLANDER.ORG
p rof e s s ion a l
PHOTOGRAPHY VIDEO Advertising Real Estate Resorts Restaurants Web/Social Media
941-778-2711
u fly i drive your car anywhere in the uSa. airport runs, anywhere. office, 941-4476389. 941-545-6688. need a ride to airports? tampa $65, St. Pete, $55, Sarasota, $30. gary, 863-4095875. 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. 941-5653931.
PLACE CLASSIFIED ADS ONLINE AT WWW.ISLANDER.ORG
July 15, 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
LAWN & GARDEN
RENTALS
I DON’T CUT corners, I clean corners. Professional, friendly cleaning service since 1999. 941-779-6638. Leave message.
CONNIE’S LANDSCAPING INC. Residential and commercial. Full-service lawn maintenance, landscaping, cleanups, hauling and more! Insured. 941-778-5294.
VACATION RENTALS: BEACH condo, 2BR/1BA, $3,500/month, Perico Bay Club, 2BR/1BA, one-car garage for December and January, $3,500/month. Call for details. Real Estate Mart, 941-356-1456.
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.
CORNERSTONE OUTDOORS: LANDSCAPE, installs, tree trimming, full-service lawn maintenance, cleanups, pressure washing. 941284-1568.
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.
SEARAY SPRINKLER SERVICES. Repairs, additions, drip, sprinkler head/timer adjustments. Office, 941-518-6326. Cell, 720-2991661.
PRIVATE CHEF NOW servicing Anna Maria Island. Let Chef Mark create an enticing dinner experience for you and your guests in the comfort of your own home. 219-3139938. privatechefmm.com.
VAN-GO PAINTING residential/commercial, interior/exterior, pressure cleaning, wallpaper. Island references. Bill, 941-795-5100. www.vangopainting.net.
PREMIUM CLEANING SERVICES for premium clientele. 941-216-8238. A clean space is a healthy space!
TILE -TILE -TILE. All variations of ceramic tile supplied and installed. Quality workmanship, prompt, reliable, many Island references. Call Neil, 941-726-3077.
HOME IMPROVEMENT
RESIDENTIAL-BUSINESS CLEANING by Jessie. 10-plus years experience. Top-brand cleaning products. Honest, mature, trustworthy. References from long-term clients. I work alone, so no “crew” in your home. I have bimonthly openings. Text or leave a message at 941-526-9900.
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.
BUSINESS-TO-BUSINESS JD’s Window Cleaning looking for storefront jobs in Holmes Beach. I make dirty windows sparkling clean. 941-920-3840.
ISLAND HANDYMAN: I live here, work here, value your referral. Refinish, paint. Just ask. JayPros. Licensed/insured. References. Call Jay, 941-962-2874.
BEACH SERVICE air conditioning, heat, refrigeration. Commercial and residential service, repair and/or replacement. Serving Manatee County and the Island since 1987. For dependable, honest and personalized service, call Bill Eller, 941-795-7411. CAC184228.
HANDYMAN AND PAINTING. No job too small. Most jobs just right. Call Richard Kloss. 941-204-1162. The Islander is Anna Maria Island’s longestrunning publication. It’s essential news for residents and visitors. Check out the “best news on AMI” at our website, islander.org.
ANYONE CAN TAKE a picture. A professional creates a portrait. I want to be at your wedding! www.jackelka.com. 941-778-2711.
.org r e d n a l
is
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ww. w t a e lin
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____________ ___________ ___________ ___________ ___________ ___________ ___________ ____________ ___________ ___________ ___________ ___________ ___________ ___________
Place
____________ ___________ ___________ ___________ ___________ ___________ ___________ CLASSIFIED RATES: Minimum $12 for up to 15 WORDS. 16-30 words: $20. 31-45 words: $40. BOX ad: additional $4. (Phone number is a "word.")
The deadline is NOON Monday every week for Wednesday’s paper. Run issue date(s) _________
_________
REAL ESTATE ON THE LAKE: Harbour Grand Retreat at Harbour Isle. Bradenton. One word: location. Largest unit (2,965-sf) and on Sapphire Lake. Pre-listing: $989,900. Possible delayed closing or leaseback. 941-704-1085. zarnzook@ gmail.com. The Islander offers the best results for your classified advertising dollar. We really work for you! Submit your ad no later than noon Monday on the website, www.islander. org. For Monday holidays, the deadline is Friday.
You can read it all online at www.islander.org CHRISTIE’S PLUMBING Family Owned and Operated since 1975
Residential -iÀÛ Vi
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Landscape Design Lawn Care Cleanups Stone Paths Licensed and Insured
HURRICANE
Windows & Doors 941-730-5045 WEATHERSIDE LLC
Bed: A bargain!
King, Queen, Full & Twin, pre-owned from $30 new/used. 941-922-5271 www.sleepking.net
AMI TAXI
CLASSIFIED AD ORDER ds a d e fi i class
ANNUAL 2BR/2BA CONDO on second floor with bay views. Pool, tennis, cable and water included. $1,695/month. Island Vacation Properties, 941-778-1000.
#CFC1426596
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.
LIC#CBC1253145
BAYSHORE HOME WATCH (accredited service): Providing certified professional weekly home checks. Peace of mind while you’re away. 941-920-5597. Bonded/insured.
_________
professional, metered, on-call, gps, cards accepted www.amitaxi.com • amitaxi4u@gmail.com holmes beach, bradenton beach, anna maria
941-447-8372 airports • shops • dining
IMPROVE YOUR CURB APPEAL! Horticultural Design Services | Landscape Construction Landscape Maintenance | Irrigation Installation & Repair Brick & Stone Pavers | Walls, Gates, Fences | Tree Trimming Low Volt Outdoor Lighting Repair & Installation
_________ or TFN start date: ______________
Amt. pd _________________ Date _____________ Ck. No.� _________ Cash � _______ By _________
d � u No.
_____________________________________________________
Name shown on card: ____________________________________________card exp. date ______ / ______ House no. or P.O. box no. on cc bill ________________________Billing address zip code ________________ Your e-mail for renewal reminder: ____________________________________________________________
Web site: www.islander.org 3218 E. Bay Drive Holmes Beach FL 34217
E-mail: classifieds@islander.org Fax toll free: 1-866-362-9821 Phone: 941-778-7978
FOR MORE INFO 941.704.9025 ShadyLadyFL.com OUR BEST PRACTICES PROMISE IS APPLIED TO RESIDENTIAL OR COMMERCIAL CONSTRUCTION & MAINTENANCE.
317924
Credit card payment: �
Page 26 THE ISLANDER | islander.org July 15, 2020 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................
All in the family, Galatis celebrate 50 years of yacht sales By Sandy ambrogi islander reporter
Eleven or so years after Michael Galati Sr. and wife Anna Maria moved from New Rochelle, New York, to Florida’s east coast, the couple bought a rundown marina in Anna Maria that had been damaged by a passing hurricane. Many years later — through three generations and a fourth arriving — the family swears by dreams, love and respect. This month marks the 50th-anniversary for Galati Yacht Sales, 900 S. Bay Blvd., Anna Maria. There also are 11 other Galati locations, from Mexico to Costa Rica and in between. Galati employs 175 people, all inspired to achieve Their beginning included raising five children, the excellent customer service established by Michael who worked and played around the marina, listening Sr. and wife Anna Maria in the beginning. for incoming fishing boats, unloading catches, cleaning boats and more. In 1976, the Galati location took on its first line of yachts, attending area boat shows, and soon, in 1983, gaining certification as a Cruisers Yachts dealership. Salty Real Estate Estate Salty Mermaid Mermaid Real All five children stayed with the company business 5306 Blvd 5306 Holmes Holmes Blvd after high school or returned shortly after, each taking Holmes Beach, FL 34217 Holmes Beach, FL 34217 on their strong suit, but also working 100% together, according to brother Joe. Callme, me,your yourlocal localrealtor, realtor, Call forbuying, buying,selling, selling, or or Fast forward to the turn-of-the-century and Galati for investing. investing. Yacht Sales has continued to shine on Anna Maria Island. 941-564-0035 It became a Marine Industry Certified Dealer in 2005, Boating Industry’s Top 100 dealer in 2007 and What matters to you, What matters to you,
Diana Sinisi Diana Sinisi
941-564-0035 matterstotome. me. matters
dianas@saltymermaidami.com dianas@saltymermaidami.com www.saltymermaid.com MIKE NORMAN REALTY EST. 1978
Mike Norman Realty INC
STEPS TO BEACH Wonderful 3BR/2BA ground-level “condo” in a three-unit complex. Beautifully furnished with established rentals. Beach access is directly across the street. Outdoor patio, Mexican tile flooring throughout and gorgeous beach views. $525,000
2008, and, in 2008, the marina business was named to the Boating Industry Top 100 Hall of Fame. But the concept of family remains most important. In a YouTube video put out by the family for the 50th celebration, matriarch Anna Maria beamed about her family. Her husband and patriarch died in 1992. “All 12 of my grandchildren are now in our family business,” she said. “I love working with my family,” daughter Fran echoed. “How lucky am I?” “As a family member we do everything we can to make it happen,” brother Joe said. Galati Yacht Sales is at 900 S. Bay Blvd., Anna Maria. For more information, call 941-778-0755 or visit online at galatiyachts.com.
Place classified ads online at www.islander.org 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.
www.mikenormanrealty.com 31o1 Gulf Drive, Hholmes Beach 800-367-1617 | 941-778-6696
WE ROCK ONLINE
members of the galati family include Joe galati, left, carmine, chris, mother anna maria, fran and mike. islander courtesy Photo: galati yacht Sales
2501 Gulf Drive, Ste 102, Bradenton Beach
OFFERING THE BEST SELECTION OF SALES & RENTALS ON ANNA MARIA ISLAND SINCE 1978
DIRECT BAYFRONT CONDO Wonderful water views from this updated 2BR/2BA end unit in Sunbow Bay. Complex offers elevator, heated pool, tennis, carport and scenic dock on the bay. $415,000
All in the family
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
islander.org
WE LIKE LIKES
Chantelle Lewin
Broker Associate Licensed since 1983
4BR/4BA DUPLEX STEPS TO BEACH Great duplex with 2BR/2BA each side across the street from the beach. Zoned for nightly and weekly rentals. $620,000
Mike Norman Realty
800-367-1617 941-778-6696 31O1 GULF DR HOLMES BEACH INC www.mikenormanrealty.com sales@mikenormanrealty.com
941.713.1449 MIRABELLA VILLA 2BR/2BA plus den, private, gated community. MLS4465412 $368,800.
WWW.CHANTELLELEWIN.COM
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facebook.com/ Islandernewspaper
RELEASE DATE: 7/12/2020
New York Times Sunday Magazine Crossword
July 15, 2020 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 27 No. 0705 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................
POWER-UPS
1
BY JON SCHNEIDER AND ANDERSON WANG / EDITED BY WILL SHORTZ Jon Schneider, of New York City, is a research scientist for Google, working on problems in machine learning and economics. Anderson Wang, of Mountain View, Calif., is a software engineer currently between jobs. They met at M.I.T. in the early 2010s, where they lived in the same hall. They’ve been making and solving puzzles together ever since. This is the first New York Times crossword for each of them. — W.S.
AC RO SS
1 Not fine 7 Expedition 12 Savory jelly 17 T acks on 19 Mollycoddle 20 Sight on an English farm 21 Slacker role for Jeff Bridges in ‘‘The Big Lebowski’’ 22 Superenthusiastic 23 Spelman College graduate, e.g. 24 ‘‘____ is an emotion in motion’’: Mae West 25 See 30-Across 27 Morning weather phenomenon 29 See 33-Across 30 With 25-Across, get as much approval from an audience as possible 32 Dalmatians, e.g. 33 With 29-Across, like a deer in headlights 35 N.Y.C.’s first subway line 36 Singer Mann 38 Michelangelo masterpiece 40 Sunset Boulevard sight 42 Utah mountain range 45 What people tend to do when a rush-hour subway train arrives 47 See 50-Across 48 See 53-Across Online subscriptions: Today’s
puzzle and more Answers: than 4,000 past puzzles, page 24 nytimes.com/crosswords ($39.95 a year).
50 With 47-Across, not change anyone’s mind, say 52 Forest of Fangorn resident, in fiction 53 With 48-Across, stops wasting time 57 Dawn 59 Eternally damned 61 Promptness 63 Default consequence 65 Have an influence (on) 69 Iraqi port city 70 Mathematical concepts suggested eight times in this puzzle 74 ‘‘I’m telling the truth!’’ 75 One of the Seven Dwarfs 77 Yeats’s ‘‘The Lake ____ of Innisfree’’ 78 Bad place for a fly, in a saying 80 Showy shrub 83 Arch supporter 85 See 90-Across 86 Flat-topped cap 88 See 92-Across 90 With 85-Across, uncomfortably accurate 92 With 88-Across, sacrificed 94 Place that processes ore 96 Eponym of the world’s largest church 101 Some team-bonding trips 103 State whose capital is Dispur
105 Drum that can be played with a brush 106 Hypotheticals 107 See 113-Across 109 Cleans, as a deck 112 See 116-Across 113 With 107-Across, bad sort of competition 115 ‘‘Freak on a Leash’’ metal band 116 With 112-Across, ‘‘Your misfortune is nothing special’’ 118 Jocular lead-in to ‘‘macation’’ 119 List ender 121 Abstract artist de Kooning known for her portraits 123 Obsessive cleaner, say 125 Important faculty for school 126 Brought home 127 Lively French dance popular in the Baroque era 128 Big name in nail polish 129 Rug rats 130 Brand whose sales skyrocketed after the release of ‘‘E.T.’’ DOWN
1 Person who’s being used 2 Sister of Laertes 3 They’re scored from 1 to 5 4 What’s found at one end of a rainbow 5 Comfy-cozy 6 Sources of Norse mythology
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93 Fly catcher
111 Dishonest attack 95 Dead Sea Scrolls sect 114 Foe of the Morlocks, in 97 Envelope abbr. sci-fi 98 Juggling, singing, 116 Major export of magic, etc. Tuscany 99 Scholarly 117 Place to hang holiday 100 Tells off lights 102 Just peachy 120 Something drawn by 104 ____ Pro a jerk, maybe 108 Dental covering 122 Sanctuary similar to a crown 124 What a digitigrade 110 Water pipe stands on
Visit WWW.ISLANDER.ORG for the best news on Anna Maria Island. the Team Duncan Difference! Local-Area Expertise Outstanding Customer Service Experienced Professionals Proven Performance
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Character & Charm! Elegant 4BD/2.5BA 1920s Spanish Mediterranean revival home with 32-foot heated saltwater pool in historic neighborhood, Palma Sola Park! $557,900
North Point Harbour Waterfront Home! Gorgeous, new professional decor, fully furnished, completely renovated home. Features 20k boat lift, Seadoo floating dock and heated pool! $1,350,000
Resort-Style Living! 2BD/2BA updated condo with a great view, waterfront community, close to Anna Maria Island! $249,000
Maintenance-Free Island Living! 2BD/2BA turnkey-furnished condo! Enjoy maintenance free living with steps to the beach. Heated pool and private garage parking! $370,000
Fabulous Island Home! 3BD/3BA renovated pool home on northend! All hurricane materials used, split plan, raised ceilings, best ever new pool house/music room! $1,395,000
No Detail Overlooked! Step into this income-producing 4BD/5.5BA home in the heart of AMI. Walk to beach, shops. Spend all day by the pool in the backyard oasis! $1,750,000
Just Listed! An Island Gem on the north end! 3BD/2.5BA open plan home with two screened porches, Gulf views from master suite, heated pool and spa! $889,000
Build Your Dream Home! Buildable lot west of Gulf Drive in the 100 block of Anna Maria. Just steps to the beach! $799,000
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Page 28 THE ISLANDER | islander.org July 15, 2020 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................