VOLUME 28, NO. 43
#aMItogether
the Best News on Anna Maria Island since 1992 astheworldterns look for new normal. 6 Beach renourishment crews on the move. 3 Island polling places. 4 BB approves ballot questions. 4
Meetings. 4 Budget talks. 4-5
Opinions. 6 10-20 YEARS looking back. 7AGO stilt house remains against court orders. 8
StreetLife. 8 Motel defends against HB lawsuit. 9
Happenings
Announcements. 10-11 farewell to Roser pastor. 11
islander.org
AM mayor fields questions from city pier hopefuls By ChrisAnn Allen Islander Reporter
Cerveza, please. “The biggest thing people are saying today is, ‘Where can I get a beer and something to eat?’� Anna Maria Mayor Dan Murphy said Aug. 13 about the new city pier. A city meeting that day invited questions from business owners interested in bidding on a lease to operate a grill and bait shop on the T-end of the new pier. People attending the meeting remotely or in-person included Jason Suzor, owner of the Waterfront Restaurant, across from Store; Nicholas Graham of Pine Avenue Bait the pier; former Commissioner Brian Sey- and Tackle; Vic Mattay, owner of Dips Ice mour, owner of the Pine Avenue General Cream, all in Anna Maria; Patrick Coleman, People gather Aug. 13 in the chamber, including some attendees by teleconference, at Anna Maria City Hall for a meeting to review proposals for a grill and bait shop on the city pier.
AmE NEWS
Back-to-school. 12 AM explores impact fees. 13
Gathering. 14
AUG. 19, 2020 FREE
Top Notch
Obituaries. 14 former mayor reflects, shares vision. 17 lBK, DeP await final report on bay spill. 19
NESTING NOTES. turtle volunteers roll with tide. 20
Covering up. 21 soccer, golf, horseshoes. 22 time to hook up. 23 CLASSIFIEDS. 24
NYT puzzle.
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Week 6: Royal peep Angie Blunt of Bradenton is the sixth top Notch finalist for her photo of a “happy royal tern� on the shore in Holmes Beach. she wins an Islander “More-than-a-mullet wrapper� t-shirt and entry into the contest finals, which offers a grand prize of $100 from the Islander and gift certificates from Islander advertisers, including slim’s Place, Island Coffee Haus, Restless Natives, Mr. Bones BBQ, Cremesh european Restaurant, Cupcake Delights, the feast and Minnie’s Beach Cafe. look to the Aug. 26 issue for the grand winner of the top Notch contest.
Anna Maria Commissioner Joe Muscatello watches from the dais Aug. 13 as Mayor Dan Murphy reviews the city’s request for proposals for a grill and bait shop on the new Anna Maria City Pier. Islander Photos: ChrisAnn Allen
an officer in FP Growth Partners and Poppo’s Taqueria, based in Anna Maria; and Karen Bell, owner of A.P. Bell Fish Co. and Star Fish Co. Market and Restaurant in Cortez. Commissioners Carol Carter, Jonathan Crane and Joe Muscatello also attended as the mayor led a discussion on the updated request for proposals for pier space. The RFP is for a small grill to offer beverages, takeout food and bait on the north side of the T-end and was issued after the city ceased negotiations with the Ugly Grouper restaurant in Holmes Beach to lease the restaurant on the south side of the T-end. The larger area will remain vacant until the city determines a use for the space. The pier opened Friday-Sunday with limited hours June 19 due to concerns over the novel coronavirus and lack of a pier tenant to maintain the space. The original pier, 101 Bay Blvd., had been in operation since 1911, but was closed due to damages by Hurricane Irma in September 2017. The city demolished the pier and construction on the new pier began in 2018. At the meeting, Suzor asked how long the city would allow the tenant to finish a buildout of the space for the grill and bait shop. Murphy said the city wants to move “as quickly as possible� and would work with a potential lessee on the specs and contract negotiations. The mayor said he would meet once or twice with a possible tenant to agree on the contract. “We are in a hurry. We would like to get it up and flying before season, maybe November or December,� Murphy said. Graham asked about expectations for the bait shop. Murphy said the options are left to the bidder. “We would make that negotiable,� Murphy said. “Some people have a grandiose idea about bait, while others just sell frozen squid.� Murphy said questions and answers from the meeting would be posted at cityofannamaria.com. The deadline to submit bids and the opening will be at 1 p.m. Friday, Aug. 21. Murphy said the details of the bids would remain confidential for up to 30 days or until a shortlist or a single bidder is selected and presented to the city commission.
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Anna Maria commission delays vacancy discussion By Ryan Paice Islander Reporter
Anna Maria officials aren’t sure how to fill the vacancy created by Amy Tripp’s resignation. She qualified June 12 to run for reelection on the Nov. 3 ballot and, lacking any challengers, she was automatically reelected along with Mayor Dan Murphy and Commissioner and Mark Short. Tripp attended her final commission meeting Aug. 13. She sent the mayor a letter of resignation that included her intention to move later this month with her husband, Alan, to Black Mountain, North Carolina. The commission will not meet again until Aug. 27, Anna Maria Mayor Dan Murphy, right, presents Commissioner Amy Tripp with a plaque and a key to the city Aug. 13, during Tripp’s final commission meeting before moving to North Carolina. Islander Courtesy Photo: LeAnne Addy
and Tripp doesn’t plan to attend. She was appointed to the commission in 2018 to complete the remainder of Nancy Yetter’s term and was an advocate of the multiuse path along Gulf Drive from Archer Way to Willow Avenue. She served without weathering an election. Mayor Dan Murphy awarded Tripp a key to the city. “She’s been such a contributor in terms of creativity,” Murphy said. “She’s always thinking outside of the box.” Tripp expressed gratitude for her time on the commission. “This has been a really positive experience for me,” she said. “It was a really fantastic experience. “This city is so lucky to have the people that are here, and I’m going to really miss you guys,” she added. The deadline to qualify to run for an Anna Maria
commission seat has passed. So Tripp’s successor must be either appointed by the remaining commission or by special election. Murphy said the city could appoint or elect a new commissioner to complete Tripp’s current term, which expires in November. However, it would need to hold the same process after her term expires to fill her seat for the two-year term that begins in November. To avoid conducting the process twice, commissioners could leave the seat empty until November, when someone could be appointed or a special election could be held to fill the two-year term. Leaving the commission with four members introduces the potential for tie votes, but Commissioner Joe Muscatello said he isn’t concerned. Commissioners reached consensus to again discuss the vacancy at their 6 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 27, meeting at city hall, 10005 Gulf Drive N.
AM holds 1st reading of revised alcohol ordinance By Ryan Paice Islander Reporter
Change is coming to Anna Maria’s alcoholic beverages ordinance. But the regulation that would require men to cover their breasts is off the table. City commissioners held a public hearing and the first of two readings Aug. 13 for an ordinance that removes a long-standing prohibition on establishments that sell alcoholic beverages within 2,500 feet of a church or another establishment selling alcohol. The distance restriction limited the number of bars and taverns in the city, but city planner Chad Minor proposed a new control. If adopted, any establishment planning to sell alcoholic beverages would need a special use permit. The ordinance is a revised version of one passed in July that also changed the indecent exposure provision to require shirts for all patrons, including men, in any
establishment selling alcoholic beverages, including restaurants with outdoor dining. The measure removed the word “female” from several lines of code to be more gender-neutral while also exempting mothers nursing their babies. Mayor Dan Murphy vetoed the ordinance, citing concerns with enforcement and the possible impact on the beach community’s restaurant industry. “I apologize to all of you again for vetoing your ordinance,” he told commissioners Aug. 13. Murphy told the commissioners that to regulate attire, they could create a new ordinance. While the revised ordinance lacks the genderneutral language, it retains the exemption for nursing mothers. Commissioner Jonathan Crane, the sole vote against the original ordinance, said he preferred removing the indecent exposure provision and asked why the please, see alcohol, Next Page
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Aug. 19, 2020 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 3 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................
Beach renourishment crews push pause pumping to move south By ChrisAnn Allen Islander Reporter
The sugar-white sand of Anna Maria Island has been the pride of residents. “As I hope many are witnessing, we have the best quality sand being delivered to the beach that we have experienced in the 30 years we’ve been doing this program,” Charlie Hunsicker, the Manatee County parks and natural resources director, said Aug. 13 of a $17.3 million project to restore eroded beaches. The project, which started July 8 at 78th Street in Holmes Beach, has traveled south with workers going 24/7 at a speed of about 300 feet every 24 hours. As of Aug. 13, renourishment was completed through the area that includes the Manatee Public Beach at 4000 Gulf Drive in Holmes Beach, and was on hold while contractors prepared a second barge with a “booster” pump, which will provide extra force through the longer runs of pipe to the beaches south of the public beach. could take longer. Previously, Hunsicker said the middle of the island, Hunsicker said Aug. 13 that the project would south of the public beach, where the shore is narrowest, resume about four blocks south of the public beach after the second barge arrives, likely by Aug. 17. alcohol continued from page 2 He also said the project is relocating south on the beach so excessive pipeline doesn’t stretch the full city couldn’t depend on state law. City attorney Becky Vose said state restrictions length of the shore for the nine-month duration of the project. wouldn’t apply to topless bars. The first phase, the Anna Maria Island Shore ProCommission Chair Carol Carter said she reconsidered the ordinance, which she voted to approve, and tection Project, and will continue to about Fifth Street South in Bradenton Beach. supported removing the changes. On the heels of phase 1, the second phase, the A final hearing and vote will be at 6 p.m. Thursday, Coquina Beach Renourishment Project, will start at Aug. 27, at city hall, 10005 Gulf Drive N. Fifth Street South in Bradenton Beach and continue There was no public comment. Commissioners also unanimously voted to approve south to Longboat Pass. The project schedule listed on the county website special use permits allowing Pizza Social, 308 Pine Ave., and Lazy Turtle Shack, 314 Pine Ave., to sell shows beach fill pumping onto the shore through Oct. beer and wine despite operating within 2,500 of Roser 31, with demobilization ending Nov. 15. For more information about beach renourishment, Memorial Community Church, 512 Pine Ave, based on the scheduled final vote on the revised ordinance visit mymanatee.org and search “beach renourishment.” removing the distance limitation.
People line the shore of the Gulf of Mexico Aug. 15 near 34th Street in Holmes Beach, north of the beach renourishment project, which is moving south. An extractor that sifts rocks and shell from the sand that is pumped up from the offshore barge is idle. Islander Photos: ChrisAnn Allen
A second barge, added the week of Aug. 10, is a booster for the barge that is dredging sand farther north, providing extra force to pump sand through longer pipes to the beaches in the 3400 block of Gulf Drive, south of the project startup at 77th Street in Holmes Beach.
Click! The Islander welcomes news of the milestones in readers’ lives. Send notices to news@islander.org.
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BB approves 2 questions for Nov. 3 ballot By Ryan Paice Islander Reporter
Bradenton Beach voters soon will have a say on regulating parking garages. And so might 12th Circuit Judge Edward Nicholas. City commissioners voted 4-0 Aug. 10 to place two initiative questions on the general election ballot. Both would regulate parking garages, while one question originated in 2018 from the Keep Our Residential Neighborhoods political action committee. Perry The commission’s motion also directed city attorney Ricinda Perry to request a hearing before Nicholas to argue that land use regulations don’t belong in the charter. Commissioner Jan Vosburgh was absent from the meeting with excuse. KORN’s initiative — if approved by a majority of the city electorate — would amend the charter to prohibit multilevel parking garages. The other initiative, if approved, would allow one parking garage in a nonresidential area. Perry, who proposed the second initiative, said it would give residents options on how to approach the issue and appease Manatee County commissioners, who have wanted to gauge community interest in a parking garage. If voters approve both charter amendments, a conflict likely would cancel the votes.
The questions had to be submitted to the Manatee County Supervisor of Elections office by 5 p.m. Aug. 10. KORN sued the city in 2018, when the city refused to place the PAC’s four questions — initiatives that were approved by citizens through petitions — including the multilevel parking garage prohibition on the general election ballot. The city amended its comp plan and land development code later that year to prohibit the construction of a multilevel parking garage and expressed concern with placing land use regulations on the city charter. KORN, however, wants the prohibition in the charter, which only can be changed by a majority vote of the electorate. Nicholas ruled in March that Bradenton Beach didn’t have to place KORN’s questions on an upcoming ballot. Still, city commissioners agreed to put the parking garage question on the 2020 ballot after KORN attorney Robert Hendrickson threatened further litigation. She said she was confident a hearing could be scheduled before the November vote. “I believe we could still go to Judge Nicholas and say that we did this in good faith moving it forward, but we still strongly object to it and feel it should not be put in front of voters,” Perry said. The legal challenge would apply to both initiatives, as both would involve placing land use regulations in the city charter.
Anna Maria’s budget is coming together, piece by piece. Mayor Dan Murphy presented some tentative expenses for the new fiscal year at an Aug. 13 commission workshop. Expenses include costs for administration, building department, code enforcement, commission, debt service, capital outlay, parks and recreation, public safety and public works. The expenditures are projected at $4,613,550.59 for the new 2020-21 fiscal year, which begins Oct. 1. The same budget items were estimated to cost the city $5,904,855.59 by the end of the current fiscal year. The $1,291,305 drop in expenses is due to the completion of the new Anna Maria City Pier, which inflated the budget during two years of design and construction. The pier cost is projected at $1,854,388.65 in the current fiscal year due to the cost of constructing the platform, T-end and shell buildings. Only $100,000 is tentatively budgeted for the pier in the new fiscal year — a $1,754,388.65 difference — now that the interior buildout is all that remains. An additional $45,300 is tentatively budgeted for pier repairs and maintenance for the public works department, $4,397.11 more than the current budget. Murphy called projected rates for flood and wind insurance for the pier “astronomical” and suggested the city explore self-insuring the structure. Without a lease lined up for the T-end restaurant, the city did not budget pier rent in its revenues for 2020-21, which were presented in July. Besides the drop in pier expenditures, most other spending is rising. The administration department is projected to cost $61,518.75 more due to rising insurance costs and 3% salary raises. Commissioner Joe Muscatello suggested the mayor consider awarding staff bonuses for their work during the COVID-19 pandemic and Murphy agreed. The building department projected an almost $71,000 hike in expenses. Murphy said the increase was largely because the city hired planner Chad Minor partway through this year. His salary was partially budgeted for 2019-20, but would be fully budgeted in the 2020-21. Murphy said almost every department has increased its budget due to the purchase of a new
2020
Primary polls open Aug. 18
Primary elections will be Tuesday, Aug. 18, including votes in nonpartisan judicial and school board races in Manatee County. Polling on Anna Maria Island will be 7 a.m.-7 p.m. In Anna Maria, voters will cast ballots at Roser Memorial Community Church, 512 Pine Ave. In Bradenton Beach, voters will cast ballots at the fire hall, 201 Second St. N. In Holmes Beach, voters in both precincts will cast ballots at St. Bernard Catholic Church, 248 S. Harbor Drive. Typically results are announced on the Manatee County Supervisor of Elections Office website at votemanatee.com by 8 p.m. on election day. For more information, go online to votemanatee. com or call the elections office at 941-741-3823. Email listings to calendar@islander.org. — lisa Neff
Meetings
Anna Maria City
Aug. 27, 6 p.m., city commission. Anna Maria City Hall, 10005 Gulf Drive, 941-7086130, cityofannamaria.com. Bradenton Beach
Anna Maria discusses 2020-21 spending By Ryan Paice Islander Reporter
Vote
budget talks
software system for around $30,000. Tentative parks and recreation expenses included an additional $103,000 that was not included in the current budget. The money would go toward playground equipment, such as a jungle gym proposed by Commissioner Amy Tripp for City Pier Park at the corner of Bay Boulevard and Pine Avenue. Commissioner Mark Short supported the playground at the park, calling the playground at Bayfront Park “dated.” Manatee County manages Bayfront Park and provides the park amenities. Commissioner Joe Muscatello also proposed adding a bocce ball court at City Pier Park. Commissioners authorized Murphy and Tripp to create a plan for the commission. The remainder of the city’s spending plan will include contingency funds, as well as costs for road and stormwater improvements — to be addressed at the budget workshop set for 6 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 27, at city hall, 10005 Gulf Drive N.
Anna Maria by the numbers 2020-21 proposed expenses: tBD 2019-20 adopted expenses: $7,859,405. 2019-20 end of year projected expenses: $5,904,855.59. Maximum 2020-21 millage: 2.2253 mills. Proposed 2020-21 millage: 2.0500 mills. Rollback rate: 1.9599 mills. 2019-20 millage rate: 2.0500 mills. tax on a $500,000 property at the rollback rate: $979.95. tax on a $500,000 property at the proposed millage rate: $1,025. tax on a $500,000 property at the maximum millage rate: $1,112.65. total 2019 assessed property value: $1,200,147,787. total 2020 assessed property value: $1,272,068,427. first public hearing and vote on the budget ordinance: 2 p.m. thursday, sept. 10. final public hearing on the budget: 6 p.m. thursday, sept. 24.
Aug. 20, noon, city commission. Aug. 25, 9:15 a.m., city commission. Aug. 26, 1 p.m., planning and zoning. Bradenton Beach City Hall, 107 Gulf Drive N., 941-778-1005, cityofbradentonbeach.com. Holmes Beach
Aug. 19, 10 a.m., code compliance. Holmes Beach City Hall, 5801 Marina Drive, 941708-5800, holmesbeachfl.org. West Manatee Fire Rescue Aug. 25, 6 p.m., commission (budget). WMFR administration building, 6510 Third Ave. W., Bradenton, 941-761-1555, wmfr.org. Manatee County
Aug. 20, 9 a.m., commission (land). Aug. 25, 9 a.m., commission. Aug. 31, 9 a.m., commission (budget). Bradenton Area Convention Center, 1 Haben Blvd., Palmetto, 941-748-4501, mymanatee.org. of interest
Aug. 19, 2 p.m., Coalition of Barrier Islands Elected Officials, Anna Maria City Hall. CANCELED Sept. 7 is Labor Day, most government operations are closed. Nov. 3, general election. Email listings to calendar@islander.org. — lisa Neff
RoadWatch
Eyes on the road
The Florida Department of Transportation and Manatee County posted the following: • Multiple locations in Bradenton Beach: A county pipeline replacement project continues. Impacted areas include Gulf Drive, Bay Drive South, Church Avenue and Cortez Road. Expect construction in rights of way and increased truck traffic. • 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 10 p.m.-6 a.m. Pedestrians can expect sidewalk closures. 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
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Bradenton Beach delays 2 projects to reduce spending plan By Ryan Paice Islander Reporter
Bradenton Beach is facing a conundrum. Raise taxes or lower expenses? City officials tentatively opted to lower expenses for the budget year starting Oct. 1. City commissioners voted 4-0 Aug. 11 on several motions to set a tentative spending plan, including delaying an Avenue B stormwater drainage project until 2021-22. Commissioner Jan Vosburgh was absent with excuse. Commissioners did not review projected revenues, but city treasurer Shayne Thompson said he expects the city to receive $200,000 less in revenues from gas and sales taxes due to COVID-19 cutbacks. Due to the expected drop in revenue, the proposed $9,001,185 budget — although bolstered with $4.69 million in state appropriations — would require the city to rely on its reserve funds to meet expenses. “The city has always had a very healthy reserve for unforeseen expenses,” Thompson said. “But we’ve drawn on that reserve over the past few years just shy of $950,000.” Reserve funds paid for attorneys’ fees for a Sunshine lawsuit and the dispute with Keep Our Residential Neighborhoods political action committee. Reserve money also paid to upgrade the Bradenton Beach Police Department’s vehicles and equipment.
Bradenton Beach by the numbers Proposed 2020-21 budget: $9,001,185. 2019-20 adopted budget: $5,292,349. 2019-20 actual budget to date: $1,719,642. Proposed 2020-21 CRA budget: $294,197. 2019-20 adopted CRA budget: $2,611,419. 2019-20 actual budget to date: $565,275. Maximum 2020-21 millage: 5.1481 mills. Proposed 2020-21 millage: 2.3329 mills. Rollback rate: 2.2112 mills. 2019-20 millage rate: 2.3329 mills. tax on a $500,000 property at rollback rate: $1,105.60 tax on a $500,000 property at proposed millage rate: $1,166.45. tax on a $500,000 property at maximum millage rate: $2,574.05 total 2019 assessed property value: $650,221,930. total 2020 assessed property value: $691,333,870. first public hearing and reading for the budget ordinance: 5:05 p.m. thursday, sept. 3, city hall, 107 gulf Drive N. final public hearing and vote on the budget: 5:05 p.m. thursday, sept. 10, at city hall.
#AMItogether #AMItogether #AMItogether #AMItogether #AMItogether #AMItogether #AMItogether #AMItogether
budget talks
Thompson said the city must either raise its millage rate — a hike for property owners — or lower spending to avoid dipping further into reserves. Thompson did not respond to an Aug. 13 email or an Aug. 14 call from The Islander asking about how much remained in reserves, as well as how much he expected to rollover into the fiscal year 2020-21. Mayor John Chappie proposed delaying a stormwater project on Avenue B to create infiltration trenches in rights of way. The city was to receive 50% reimbursement for the $222,000 project from Southwest Florida Water Management District if work was completed by March 20, 2021. Delaying the project would drop spending by the city $111,000. City attorney Ricinda Perry said there are provisions in the agreement that might allow the city to postpone work but retain the grant. Chappie also suggested working with Florida’s Hazard Mitigation Grant Program to retain partial funding for a pair of flood mitigation projects he suggested delaying. The city expects 75% reimbursement for a $520,000 project to harden and floodproof municipal buildings, as well as a $450,000 drainage improvement project along Church and Highland avenues. Delaying the projects would shave $242,500 from the 2020-21 spending plan. “I am kind of opposed to raising anybody’s taxes during times like these and increasing their burden,” Commissioner Ralph Cole said. “If (delaying projects) is what it takes to balance the budget, I think it’s a good thing.” Cole moved to delay the projects and Jake Spooner seconded the motion, which passed 4-0. The proposed 2.3329 millage rate would amount to a tax increase for property owners, due to an increase in taxable property values from $650,221,930 in 2019 to $691,333,870 in 2020. Millage is $1 per $1,000 of assessed property value, so the owner of a $500,000 property would pay $1,166.45 in ad valorem tax at 2.3329 mills. The proposed rate would earn the city $1,612,812.78. At the rollback rate, 2.2112 mills, the rate needed to avoid a tax hike, a $500,000 home would incur $1,105.60 in ad valorem tax. The rollback rate would earn the city $1,528,677.45 — $84,135.33 less than the proposed rate. Under the maximum rate of 5.1481 mills, a $500,000 property would pay 2,574.05 in ad valorem tax. The maximum rate would net the city $1,946,243.12 more than the proposed rate, or $3,559,055.90. Thompson said the city has held the 2.3329 mill-
age rate at since 2012, but property owners pay more as their values increase. CRA budget The city creates a separate budget for the its community redevelopment district. The CRA funds improvement projects to promote restoration, growth and tourism for the district, which includes Bridge Street and is bordered by Cortez Road, Sarasota Bay, Fifth Street South and the Gulf of Mexico. CRA members voted 5-0 Aug. 11 on several motions, including $294,197 in projected costs for general expenses, administration, law enforcement, planning, streets and roads and $15,000 for Bridge Street holiday decorations. CRA members Ed Chiles, a restaurant owner, and Jan Vosburgh, a city commissioner, were absent with excuse. The CRA has funded the projects with incremental tax revenue collected by Manatee County since 1992, when the area was declared blighted. The agency includes the mayor, city commissioners and two appointed members, Chiles and resident David Bell. Thompson projected the CRA would have $1.2 million-$1.3 million to spend in 2020-21. The funding is allocated from Manatee County taxes. CRA members agreed to spend almost $300,000 on operational costs, including $140,100 for general expenses, $72,800 for city police patrols in the district and $73,297 to repair streets. However, they couldn’t agree on a budget for capital improvements. City engineer Lynn Burnett said the tentative improvements budget should roll over $242,500 for the Anna Maria Island Sun Trail, transportation and parking. She said the budget also should fund a tram between Coquina Beach and Bridge Street. Burnett added that the budget also should include $500,000 for seagrass mitigation and dredging a channel in Sarasota Bay. If the CRA agrees to rollover funds to the fiscal year 2020-21, the agency will have $200,000-$300,000 to spend on capital improvements. CRA members voted 5-0 to continue discussing a tentative budget for capital improvement projects to 9:30 a.m. Tuesday, Aug. 25, at city hall, 107 Gulf Drive N.
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Opinion
Our
Where is normal?
Like me, you may have reached a point in the ongoing pressure from the pandemic that you are asking yourself, “What is normal?” Are we living with the new normal? Or will we continually evolve into a hybrid — like many students face in schools — of a new normal. Pundits on TV say we will not return to normal with the coronavirus vaccine. The scientists are estimating about a third of the population will decline the vaccine, which could leave them vulnerable — and could cause them to be a continued risk to other people. What does that mean for Anna Maria Island? It means many restrictions will continue. Visitors will be limited based on their origins. We will need to continue wearing masks in public and social distancing will be the norm. We can’t let down our guard. I hope, hope, hope the start of school goes well. Our little school by the bay, so loved and cherished by everyone who has sent their kids there for 70-plus years, is doing all it can to remain viable. It has far fewer students this year than its peak classroom population of 400-450 students in the 1990s and early 2000s — and that’s a good thing. The smaller numbers will help increase safety and wellbeing for students, staff and teachers. This week is the test, as in-class teaching returned Aug. 17. A small percentage of families have opted for virtual learning, and we commend those who are able to home-school their kids. School will be different for the foreseeable future, with smaller classrooms, more remote, individual instruction and parents who “pool” learning and fun activities among small groups of kids to reduce the threat of spreading the disease. It will be a new normal for young families — and at the same time, the more vulnerable populations will need to continue to isolate and avoid exposure. Some scientists suggest mask-wearing at home if there are vulnerable people in the household. On Anna Maria Island, restaurants and businesses may need to offer more in the way of curbside service, sidewalk sales, tables and service outdoors — even in parking spaces, and regulations will need to be relaxed to achieve the goals of safe service. We can’t afford to lose our critical residential population or businesses. It’s all for one on AMI. #AMItogether. — Bonner Joy, news@islander.org
AUG. 19, 2020 • Vol. 28, No. 43 Publisher and Editor Bonner Joy, news@islander.org ▼ Editorial lisa Neff, editor, lisa@islander.org ChrisAnn Allen, chrisann@islander.org Joe Bird, editorial cartoonist Kevin Cassidy, kevin@islander.org Michael Dunn, michael@islander.org Jack elka, jack@jackelka.com Brook Morrison, brook@islander.org Ryan Paice, ryan@islander.org ▼ Contributors Jesse Brisson leslie lake, leslie@islander.org Karen Riley-love Capt. Danny stasny, fish@islander.org ▼ Advertising Director toni lyon, toni@islander.org ▼ Office Staff lisa Williams, office manager info@, accounting@, classifieds@, subscriptions@islander.org ▼ Distribution urbane Bouchet Judy loden Wasco Ross Roberts (All others: news@islander.org) ▼
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Opinion
Your
Donate for good I hope everybody is in good health. As you may know, due to COVID-19, we had to cancel all our fundraiser events. We have the opportunity to receive extra funds thanks to the blood drive that we are going to hold with Suncoast Blood Centers. The event will be 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday-Sunday, Aug. 22-23. The first day will be at Lakewood Ranch and the second day will be in Holmes Beach, at Waterline Marina Resort and Beach Club, 5325 Marina Drive. For every blood donor we could receive $100. And successful donors will receive a free COVID-19 antibody test, T-shirt and chance to win a weekend stay at Waterline. Save lives and help the only child advocacy center in Manatee County. Manatee Children’s Services is dedicated to breaking the cycle of child abuse in our community. Amalia Flores, Manatee Children’s Services, Bradenton
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Government connections
Anna Maria: Mayor Dan Murphy; 941-708-6130; 10005 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria FL 34216; cityofannamaria.com; ammayor@cityofannamaria.com. Bradenton Beach: Mayor John Chappie; 941778-1005; 107 Gulf Drive N., Bradenton Beach FL 34217; 941-778-1005, cityofbradentonbeach.org; mayor@cityofbradentonbeach.com. Holmes Beach: Mayor Judy Titsworth; 941-7085800; 5801 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach FL 34217; holmesbeachfl.org; hbmayor@holmesbeachfl.org. Manatee County: County Commissioner Stephen R. Jonsson, District 3; steve.jonsson@mymanatee.org; 941-748-4501; 1112 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton FL 34205; mymanatee.org. Governor: Gov. Ron DeSantis, 850-717-9337; 400 S. Monroe St., Tallahassee FL 32399-0001; flgov. com.
Aug. 19, 2020 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 7 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................
From the archives
Bakers at the Berliner gudrun and Klaus schymanek pose with bread at their bakery restaurant, Berliner Backstube, which opened on Bridge street in Bradenton Beach in 1996. In 1998, they changed the name of the restaurant to Cafe Berlin. the image is part of the Bradenton Herald collection donated to the Manatee County Public library system. Islander Photos: Manatee County Public library system
Surrender or face the sword An Anna Maria Island Privateer is captured by one of the crewe of the Hernando De soto Conquistadors in the annual Capture of Holmes Beach, part of the 1979 De soto Celebration in April of that year. the Privateers are celebrating a 50th anniversary in 2020-21.
10&20 years ago
From the Aug. 18, 2000, issue
• Plans were announced for a Bridge Street Village hotel-restaurant-retail project on nine lots on the northwest side of Bridge Street. Key West Willie’s restaurant on Gulf Drive would be demolished and a 30-unit, three-story hotel would be built to include retail shops on the ground floor and a restaurant. • Anna Maria commissioners approved a 10-year lease with Mario Schoenfelder to operate a city pier restaurant. The lease would pay the city $5,500 per month, with rent increases of $500 each month beginning in 2003, 2005, 2007 and 2009. Schoenfelder, who owns the Rod & Reel Pier, would be required to make pier repairs and pay for inspections. • Holmes Beach city attorney Patricia Petruff told commissioners there was nothing in ordinances to prevent a gambling ship from docking at a city marina. However, she said, there would be obstacles for a gaming boat to overcome, including parking, inland navigation of waterways and a change in the site plan of the proposed dock for the ship’s use.
From the Aug. 18, 2010, issue
Visit www.islander.org for the best news on AMI.
• A brother and sister drowned and two relatives suffered injuries when a rip current pulled them under the Gulf of Mexico waters in Anna Maria. The family was visiting from Lutz. • An Estero woman was arrested for animal cruelty after a small dog was found crated in the front seat of her vehicle at Cortez Beach in Bradenton Beach. Police said the panting dog had been in the hot car for about 20 minutes. • Anna Maria Elementary students were preparing to return to classrooms and facing new rules — a dress code that prohibited tank tops unless worn over another shirt. — lisa Neff
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Page 8 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Aug. 19, 2020 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................
House remains in Cortez waters, owner faces possible jail, fines By leslie lake Islander Reporter
Facing possible fines and jail time, Raymond Guthrie Jr. was tight-lipped about his years-long legal battle. Guthrie has had multiple court-orders to dismantle and remove an unpermitted stilt-house built over public waters on Sarasota Bay off the commercial docks in Cortez, but has not done so. Now he faces a hearing for contempt of a legal order. “I can’t say anything about this really,” Guthrie said Aug. 12, citing ongoing legal procedures. “I have people working on it.” According to Manatee County Court online records, however, he did not to be represented by an attorney. On July 9, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection filed a motion in the 12th Judicial District Circuit Court for contempt against Guthrie. The agency requested that Guthrie be given 30 days to remove the structure or be jailed until he does
Streetlife
staff reports
Island police reports
Anna Maria Aug. 9, 100 block of Magnolia Avenue, assault. The Manatee County Sheriff’s Office responded to a report that a woman was struck with a pool noodle. No further information was available. Aug. 11, 500 block of Spring Avenue, information. The MCSO received a complaint that someone driving a green Ford Explorer with a scrap-metal logo took a used pool heater valued by the owner at more than $1,000. The MCSO reported the property was returned. Aug. 12, 300 block of Spring Avenue, burglary. The MCSO responded to a report of a residential burglary. A deputy reported the theft of five cordless drill batteries, valued at $600. The tools belonged to a painter working at the location. MCSO noted cameras in place at a nearby residence. The MCSO polices Anna Maria. Bradenton Beach Aug. 7, Coquina Beach, 2653 Gulf Drive S., Baker Act. A Bradenton Beach police officer patrolling the parking lot was notified of a woman screaming and hitting vehicles. After apprehending her, the officer placed her in protective custody and transported her to a treatment facility. Aug. 8, Herb Dolan Park, 2500 Ave. A, trespass. An officer observed a man sleeping in the park. The man, who had previously been warned not to sleep in the park, was issued a trespass warning and ordered to leave. Aug. 10, Gulf Drive Cafe, 900 Gulf Drive N., assisting EMS. An officer responding to reports of a disturbance found a man who appeared either was intoxicated or suffering from heat exposure. The officer called emergency medical services to transport, but the man became combative in the ambulance and EMS requested assistance. The officer pepper-sprayed and handcuffed the man.
Cops & Courts
so, accessed civil penalties up to $10,000 per day while the structure remains, pay $6,500 in penalties, and pay DEP attorney fees. The dispute between Guthrie and the DEP began in June 2017, when the DEP discovered the structure, built without permits on submerged land owned by the state. Guthrie built the structure with a metal roof, air conditioning and other amenities February-May 2017. On Feb. 18, he lost his legal bid to keep the building and was given until June 3 to comply with court’s order to dismantle and remove the structure. On May 6, Guthrie, citing COVID-19 restrictions, requested an extension of time. On May 16, the DEP filed its opposition to the extension, but allowed Guthrie an additional 30 days to comply, giving him until July 3.
Guthrie declined to comment on the potential outcome or to say how much he spent to build the 1,200-square-foot structure. “A lot of people gave me things,” he said. He has claimed the structure replaces a historic “net camp” where fishing nets were stored and maintained by commercial fishers, including his father and grandfather. Citing ongoing litigation, the DEP sent a statement to The Islander. “This matter is still in litigation. So we are limited in our ability to comment at this time, but what I can tell you is that the department petitioned the court to require Mr. Guthrie to comply with the provisions of the court’s final judgment after he failed to remove the unauthorized structure, despite the 30-day time extension provided by the department,” wrote DEP media officer Alexandra Kuchta. “Mr. Guthrie is sole defendant in the case and per the court’s final judgment, responsible for the costs of removal of the structure.” A court hearing via Zoom on the contempt motion is set for Oct. 8.
Aug. 11, Circle K, 103 Gulf Drive S., trespass warning. A manager contacted the BBPD about a man sleeping outside the store. The man was issued a trespass warning. Aug. 12, Old Bridge Village, 302 Bay Drive S., abandoned boat. An officer responded to reports of a sailboat that drifted into a private dock. The officer deemed the boat abandoned and went to the registered owner’s address, but learned there was a new homeowner who didn’t know how to contact the vessel owner. BBPD polices Bradenton Beach. Cortez No new reports. MCSO polices Cortez. .Holmes Beach Aug. 5, 200 block of Haverkos Court, traffic. A Holmes Beach police officer received a license plate reader hit on a stolen tag. A motorist was cited for no registration, no insurance, driving with a suspended license and an attached tag not assigned to the vehicle. Aug. 5, Waterline Marina Resort, 5325 Marina Drive, found property. The HBPD was contacted when a resort employee found two handguns, ammunition and a knife in a guest room. The owner was contacted and the items were held at the police station. Aug. 5, Manatee Public Beach, 4000 Gulf Drive, traffic. An officer was alerted by the LPR system to a motorist with a suspended license. The driver was issued a notice to appear and the vehicle towed. Aug. 5, Manatee Public Beach, 4000 Gulf Drive, warrant. A patrol officer spotted a person who had an outstanding Manatee County warrant for trespassing. The person was arrested and transported to the Manatee County jail. Aug. 7, 700 block of Manatee Avenue West, traffic. An officer received LPR alerts on two vehicles registered to one person. The officer stopped the vehicles and both drivers had expired licenses and were issued notices to appear.
Aug. 7, 4200 block of Gulf Drive, traffic. An LPR alert on a vehicle prompted HBPD to stop the motorist, who was issued a citation for a suspended license. The tag was seized and the vehicle was towed. Aug. 8, 800 block of Manatee Avenue West, road rage. A driver reported another motorist pointed a gun at her while they were in a line of traffic. HBPD officers located the vehicle, detained the driver and passenger and searched the car. Officers found a BB gun. The complainant did not press charges. Aug. 8, 3400 block of Gulf Drive, alcohol. An officer observed someone drinking Champagne on the beach and issued a citation. Aug. 8, Manatee Public Beach, 4000 Gulf Drive. A patrol officer was alerted by the LPR system to a vehicle with a stolen tag. The officer also determined the vehicle was not registered, the motorist had a suspended license and also was a habitual traffic offender. The driver was arrested and transported to the Manatee County jail. Aug. 9, 100 block of 73rd Street, theft, drug possession. A person reported seeing two men taking four fishing poles. Officers found the men, who led them to the fishing poles. Upon searching the men, officers found narcotic pills not prescribed to either of them. The individual who reported the theft did not press charges for the poles. The men were arrested for drug possession and taken to the county jail. Aug. 9, White Sands Beach Resort, 6504 Gulf Drive, theft. A person checked into three rooms and left without paying. The property manager/co-owner contacted the HBPD. A capias request was filed with the state attorney’s office. Aug. 9, 200 block of 73rd Street, noise. An officer was called to a second noise complaint at a vacation rental. A decibel reading taken near the property line showed excessive noise. The renter was cited. HBPD polices Holmes Beach. Streetlife is based on incident reports and narratives from the BBPD, HBPD and MCSO.
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Aug. 19, 2020 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 9 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................
Beachfront motel defends against Holmes Beach lawsuit By leslie lake Islander Reporter
It seems there’s trouble in paradise. The owner of a Holmes Beach waterfront motel has come under fire by the city of Holmes Beach in a lawsuit alleging unpermitted renovations. In filings May 22, the city claimed five counts of building violations by the Bali Hai Beachfront Resort and Spa, 6900 Gulf Drive. The city alleges the resort conducted unpermitted work on the beachfront property, which includes two two-story buildings housing hotel/motel accommodations, a smaller two-story building and a single-story pool house. The city’s building official and code enforcement supervisor visited the property in January and say they saw work being done on the second floor of the small building without a permit, “rendering it unsafe.” The fire marshal ordered the occupants to “cease, desist and vacate the premises” and March 2 a stopwork order was posted at the property. Code enforcement issued two notices of violation due to the renovations and an apparent change in use that needed a major site plan review. In April, city officers found the second floor “occupied as an office in violation of the fire marshal’s order and without having first secured a certificate of completion.” The city contends the resort failed to obtain permits for construction, alteration and demolition, lacked a certificate of completion and also violated a stopwork order and neglected to get a site plan review to change the use of a multipurpose room to a bar/ lounge. The city cited the Florida building code, which states that after notice from a building official, “work on any building, structure, electrical, gas, mechanical or plumbing system that is being done contrary to the provisions of the code in a dangerous or unsafe manner, shall immediately cease.”
The city is seeking an order preventing Bali Hai from activities in violation of the stop-work order, enforcing compliance with state and city codes, correcting violations and blocking occupancy until the building units in contention are fully compliant. Holmes Beach Mayor Judy Titsworth said unpermitted construction and renovations could impact “life and safety.” The defendants, in a June 22 filing, asked for more time to respond to the city complaint, to which the city objected June 29. The city filed for an emergency injunction July 31. Louis Najmy, attorney for owner Shawn Kaleta, said Aug. 14 that he hopes to resolve the issues. “It should be noted that Mr. Kaleta applied for and received permits for the major renovations at the Bali Hai,” Najmy wrote to The Islander. He also noted Kaleta has invested more than $25 million in the property. “This case developed because we initially disagreed that a subsequent site plan approval was required for a smaller piece of the permitted renovation,” Najmy said. Najmy said Kaleta has accepted the city’s request and submitted a site plan application as a supplement to his existing major building permit. “Such application is in the review process at the city now,” Najmy wrote. “We expect to have things worked
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out very soon, as we hope the city is pleased with the high-quality update to its largest and one of its oldest hotels without any change to the overall primary use.” Judge Edward Nicholas recused himself from the assigned case Aug. 3 because, according to his legal assistant, Marianne Makar, “he knows the owners.” The Bali Hai also has initiated a lawsuit. Last November, Bali Hai LLC sought injunctive relief saying the West Manatee Fire Rescue District erroneously applied the Florida Fire Prevention Code, halted completion, stopped the permitting process and shut down its construction project. After the city issued a building permit in August 2019, WMFR sent a letter requiring installation of automatic sprinkler systems, “adding many months and significant additional costs,” according to the Bali Hai complaint. After some back and forth in court, the parties in December 2019 reached a “mutual agreement” and the case was withdrawn. The Bali Hai’s website describes its accommodations as “gorgeously appointed” rooms and suites on 2 acres of “lushly manicured tropical grounds” on 300 feet of beachfront on the Gulf of Mexico. The LLC headed by Kaleta acquired the property Feb. 15, 2019. The city suit against the resort was reassigned to Judge Charles Sniffen and a teleconference was scheduled for Aug. 21.
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Island happenings
Page 10 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Aug. 19, 2020 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................
Glass in the garden
Community Cal ARTS
ONGOING ON AMI
glass is displayed in the Museum of Botany Through Aug. 31, “Out of the Blue” gallery-wide exhibit, Island and the Arts at Marie selby Botanical garGallery West, 5368 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941dens as part of the third annual summer glass 778-6648. show, “In Dialogue with Nature: glass in the LOOKING AHEAD ON AMI gardens.” the show will continue through sept. 20 at selby gardens’ downtown saraOct. 16-17, Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce Bayfest, sota campus, 1534 Mound st. the exhibit Anna Maria. features glass work by Duncan McClellan and FAMILY his studio in the museum, at the koi pond and against a backdrop of lush flowers and LOOKING AHEAD ON AMI plants. for more information, including an Oct. 30, Trail of Treats, islandwide. admission fee, call the gardens at 941- 366Dec. 4, holiday walk and tree-lighting, Holmes Beach. 5731. Islander Courtesy Image Dec. 11, holiday walk, Anna Maria. Dec. 12, Christmas on Bridge Street, Bradenton Beach.
Donors sought to boost charities, blood supply Waterline Marina Resort and Beach Club is partnering with Suncoast Blood Centers on the “Blood Donors for Charity” drive, which will be 8 a.m-4 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 23. A drive also will be held Saturday, Aug. 22, at Lakewood Ranch. Suncoast Blood Centers will provide blood donors with free T-shirts, as well as antibodies tests for COVID-19 and wellness checks. Additionally, donors can select from three charities to award a $100 in their name and become eligible to win a drawing for a weekend stay at the Waterline.
The charities include Manatee Children’s Services, Dream Oaks Camp and Wildlife Inc. of Bradenton Beach. The Waterline is at 5325 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. For reservations or more information, go online to suncoastblood.org or call Suncoast at 866-97BLOOD.
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NETWORKING LOOKING AHEAD ON AMI Aug. 27, Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce business card exchange, Gulf Drive Cafe and Kokonut Hut, 900 Gulf Drive. N. Bradenton Beach. Fee applies. Masks required. Information: 941778-1541.
Qi Gong classes offered
The Longboat Key Paradise Center for Healthy Living is offering outdoor instruction in Qi Gong. Sessions, led by Sandi Love, will be 10-11 a.m. Tuesdays. Qi Gong is a healing art, a way to transfer and restore energy. Attendees should bring water and wear 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.
COMMUNITY
GOOD TO KNOW SAVE THE DATES
Growing gardeners the Manatee County extension service continues to provide online lessons, offering a free webinar on growing herbs at 10 a.m. Wednesday, Aug. 19. Attendees also will learn how to use herbs and seeds in their diet. to join the webinar, go to the @ ManateeCoextension page on facebook. for more information, call the extension service at 941-7224524. Islander Courtesy Photo
Nominations open for agriculturist of the year
Nominations for Manatee County Outstanding Agriculturalist and Agriculture Hall of Fame are being accepted. The awards honor those who have contributed to the success of county’s agriculture industry, including farmers, crop consultants, agriculture educators but also those in the fishing industry. Capt. Scott Moore, a charter fishing guide from Holmes Beach, was the 2019 inductee into the hall of fame and Karen Bell of A.P. Bell Fish Co. in Cortez was outstanding agriculturist. Award winners will be honored in November. For nomination forms and award guidelines, contact Wendy Henry at the Manatee County Extension Office at 722-4524, ext. 1811, or w.henry@ufl.edu. Nominations must be submitted by Aug. 31.
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Monday, Sept. 7, Labor Day. Saturday, Oct. 31, Halloween. Sunday, Nov. 1, daylight saving time ends. Tuesday, Nov. 3, general election. Wednesday, Nov. 11, Veterans Day. Thursday, Nov. 26, Thanksgiving.
GoodDeeds
Assistance offered on AMI
• The Roser Food Bank welcomes applicants who live and/or work on Anna Maria Island for food assistance, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Information: 941-778-0414. • All Island Denominations offers monetary help, including relief for unemployed people. For information or to apply, call 941-725-2433.
Assistance sought
• Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce seeks volunteers for the 20th anniversary of Bayfest, Oct. 16-17 in Anna Maria. Information: 941-778-1541. • Moonracer Animal Rescue seeks volunteers to offer foster and forever homes for rescued animals. Information: 941-345-2441. • The Roser Food Bank seeks donations. Roser Memorial Community Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, administers the pantry, supported by All Island Denominations. Information: 941-778-0414. Send listings to calendar@islander.org.
Aug. 19, 2020 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 11 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................
Church parade serves up fond farewells to Roser pastor and wife
Mike and suzanne Pescitelli direct well-wishers Aug. 13 in a motorized parade on Pine Avenue near Roser Memorial Community Church to send off the Rev. Dr. Bob o’Keef and wife Phyllis. the pastor is retiring and the husband and wife plan soon to return to North Carolina, where they previously lived and have family. Islander Photos: Peggy Nash sara and Jay Calhoun arrive in their new convertible Aug. 13 to say farewell to Roser’s retiring pastor and his wife.
Symphony on the sand canceled for 2020 The annual event that strikes a high note on Anna Maria Island’s entertainment calendar will not take place in 2020. The Anna Maria Island Concert Chorus and Orchestra’s board of directors announced Aug. 14 that the Symphony on the Sand will not take place this year. The event, established to coincide with an ArtsHop celebration eight years ago, traditionally occurs on the second Saturday in November at Coquina Beach and draws about 4,000 people for music, food and socializing. AMICCO’s board considered the involvement of musicians, volunteers, service providers and audience members during the coronavirus pandemic and decided “moving forward with Symphony on the Sand 2020 would put all involved at increased and unnecessary risk,” according to an Aug. 14 statement. Board president James Stoltie said AMICCO decided to “err on the side of keeping our treasured audience members, talent, volunteers, sponsors and community partners safe.” AMICCO has yet to announce its 2020-21 concert
the retiring Rev. Dr. Bob o’Keef and wife Phyllis — photobombed by facilities manager Charles Wade series. The organization’s website is being updated. So — accept gifts from congregants during an Aug. 13 celebratory send-off parade at Roser Memorial for more information, email info@amicco.org. Community Church in Anna Maria. “Many friends in a variety of vehicles enjoyed the opportunity to say ‘goodbye for now’ to this dedicated couple, who The fall fizzle begins. has served Roser Church well for over the past six Manatee County, Bradenton and Palmetto leadyears with their Bible study knowledge, preaching ers delayed the fireworks display over the Manatee and musical abilities,” Roser member and photograRiver that moved from Independence Day to Labor pher Peggy Nash reported.
Holiday fireworks delayed
Day to deal with the outbreak of the coronavirus. The second postponement is to avoid large gatherings during the pandemic. Spectators typically gather on the Green Bridge and on the riverfront and the size of the expected crowd would have posed a public-health concern, according to local officials. County administrator Cheri Coryea thanked the public for understanding the need to delay and also for social distancing and wearing masks. The Sandbar Restaurant canceled rather than postponed its July 4 fireworks show in Anna Maria.
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Most AME students return to brick-and-mortar
By Brook Morrison, brook@islander.org Anna Maria Elementary Kindergarcares. ten teacher Kelly Students were returnCrawford, in her ing to classes Aug. 17, with video, introduced teachers and kids embarking herself with and on the 2020-21 school year at AME either in-person without a face mask, showing a smile. or remotely. A colorful board in the titled “look who’s popping There are 195 AME students in kindergarten into kindergarten” displayed popcorn boxes containing through fifth-grade. the names of Crawford’s new students. A virtual back-to-school night was Aug. 13, shared STEM teacher Jacque Jordan, in a video statement, online and including recorded messages from princi- said she missed her students and her class would focus pal Jackie Featherston, 14 teachers, media specialist on the four C’s of engineering: communication, colLynne McDonough and guidance counselor Susan laboration, creativity and critical thinking. Tabicman. Her classroom is arranged for two children per “Please, make sure your student has their mask on table. Fourth- and fifth-grade students will learn to 3D when they get out of the car and our staff will direct print and students at every grade level will learn snap them inside to have a wonderful free breakfast, or if circuits. they had breakfast already they can go to the quiet area “We will not be having fifth-grade Technology to start their day before the first bell rings,” Featherston Student Association and we will not be having our said in her video. fourth- and fifth-grade robotics, and I’m very sorry The night traditionally provides a chance for stu- about that,” Jordan said. dents to meet their teachers and become familiar with Due to restrictions on large gatherings, TSA and classrooms, but with the coronavirus pandemic, the robotics competitions are not permitted. event went online for the safety of staff, students and For AME students who opted to begin the school parents. year learning at home, the Manatee County School Each teacher will be responsible for daily e-learn- District website at mysdmc.manateeschools.net coning hours, which will be communicated to students via Schoology. On campus, students will enter classrooms at 8:25 a.m. and dismissal is at 3:15 p.m.. Featherston, in her welcome video, wore a face shield. She explained how students should arrive to the campus and what they can expect during the day. She also thanked families looking “forward to a wonderful school year.” The district requires face coverings throughout the school day, except for during P.E. and recess, where an effort to social distance will continue.
AmE NEWS
2020-21 school calendar
• Monday, Sept. 7, Labor Day, no school. • Monday, Oct. 12, record day, no school. • Wednesday, Nov. 11, Veterans Day, no school. • Nov. 23-27, Thanksgiving break. Anna Maria Elementary is at 4700 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. For more information, call the school at 941708-5525. tains a link to the Schoology platform. Schoology also offered AME students welcome messages from its teachers and introductions to grading and communication, as well as tutorials and materials for lessons. Weekly folders will provide new directions and lessons. Students will receive at least one lesson per week recorded in class. E-learners also will have access to teachers and staff through Schoology, as well as the Remind app, email and telephone. “I’m super excited that we will be together and I will also have a microphone so that you’ll be able to hear me better and I just wanted to say I can’t wait to see you guys or talk to you online,” first-grade teacher Sandra Fisher said in her orientation video. She put on a cloth face mask, face shield and then glasses. “To me, I kind of look like an owl, a master of disguise, that’s me — just kidding,” Fisher said while holding up a placard of a book cover titled “Hoot Owl, Master of Disguise” and written by Sean Taylor. Anna Maria Elementary is at 4700 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. For more information, call AME at 941-7085525. Anna Maria elementary first-grade teacher sandra fisher wears a face shield, face covering and eyeglasses Aug. 13 during her virtual back-to-school message to students. fisher compared her look to that of an owl. Islander Photo: Courtesy AMe
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BB Sunshine defendants offered chance for final arguments By Ryan Paice Islander Reporter
Bradenton Beach’s Sunshine Law lawsuit may be reaching a sunset. The parties in the lawsuit — the city and eight residents and now some former residents — took part in a virtual hearing to determine payment of attorneys’ fees Aug. 13. Both sides presented what could be final arguments before Judge Edward Nicholas of the 12th Judicial Circuit. Nicholas in July 2019 ruled that former Bradenton Beach planning and zoning board members John Metz, Reed Mapes, Patty Shay and Bill Vincent and Scenic WAVES Committee members Tjet Martin and Rose Vincent violated the Florida Sunshine Law in 2017 when discussing city issues via email and at meetings for the now-defunct grass-roots group Concerned Neighbors of Bradenton Beach. The Sunshine law is a series of laws intended to guarantee public access to records and that government meetings are open to the public. Nicholas said the city is entitled to recover attorneys’ fees and costs from the defendants, but left the amount to be determined in mediation, which failed to produce an agreement. Now, Nicholas must determine the fee amounts and how the citizen defendants will split the costs. Both sides presented their cases. Attorney Robert Watrous, representing the city, said the defendants forced the city to litigate after ignoring written warnings about their conduct, then dragged out the case regardless of the potential cost to taxpayers. Attorney Thomas Shults, representing the ex-board members, tried to poke holes in the city records, stating the city provided time sheets for attorneys’ fees that contained errors. Nicholas said he would review the matter and issue a written ruling after Aug. 28. He did not say how much may be awarded to the city, nor which defendants could be on the hook to pay the cost. Previously Nicholas said he was unsure if Patty Shay, as well as Rose and Bill Vincent, deserved to
pay costly fees after signing a settlement offer that failed when the other defendants refused to sign. They had agreed to the city’s offer to end the dispute by admitting guilt and paying $500 each before the trial began. Nicholas referred to Attorney’s Title Insurance Fund Inc. v. Joseph Gorka and Laurel Lee Larson, a precedent-setting case that found “it may be problematic to condition a settlement of a lawsuit on circumstances which arguably are beyond control of each individual litigant.” “It’s absolutely out of the ordinary that I’m having a discussion with parties and litigants with regards to offers of settlement, but in light of the Gorka cases, it may be relevant,” Nicholas said. He also cited Franzen v. Lacuna Golf, case law that
set a precedent for apportionment of attorneys’ fees. “In the event that I do determine that one or more individuals is on the hook for attorneys’ fees here, the Franzen case suggests that the court has to make some effort to determine the apportionment of those fees between multiple defendants if possible,” Nicholas said. “Just to throw another wrench into this, if that was possible.” In June, Nicholas barred the city from recovering more than $60,000 of city attorney Ricinda Perry’s legal fees because the city failed to detail her costs, hours and if they sought reimbursement for her time. However, the city still may receive reimbursement for up to $445,000 of legal fees. The city also can appeal Nicholas’ ruling against reimbursement for Perry’s fee.
Anna Maria explores impact fees, code changes By Ryan Paice Islander Reporter
Development in Anna Maria may face impact fees to fund public improvements. City commissioners held a first reading Aug. 13 for an ordinance implementing impact fees to help fund parks and recreation, as well as roads. Impact fees are one-time charges placed on development to fund capital improvements. The money must be used for growth-related capital improvements and cannot be used for operations, maintenance or infrastructure replacements. Under the proposed ordinance, a property owner developing or expanding a residential building would be required to pay $1.15 per square foot of new interior space for the parks and recreation impact fee. For the road and mobility impact fee, the city would charge property owners 73 cents for every square foot of new or expanded interior space. A lot owner issued a permit to build a 2,500 square foot home would pay $2,875 for parks and rec, as well as $1,825 in roads and mobility fees, if the ordinance is adopted. Unpaid fees could result in a lien against the property.
The ordinance allows people who pay impact fees to reclaim the money with interest if the city fails to use the funding within 10 years. Commission discussion was prefaced with a presentation by Tony Hairston of Raftelis Financial Consultants, hired by the city. Hairston estimated the city would have collected $50,000-$100,000 in impact fees in 2019-20. He said an average of eight vacant lots are developed in the city every year and building is projected to continue increasing over the next 10 years. The ordinance will go before the city’s planning and zoning board before it returns to city commissioners for a final reading and public hearing at 6 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 24, at city hall, 10005 Gulf Drive N. There was no public comment. The commission also held first readings for other change to the city code, allowing property owners to conduct minor fence repairs without a building permit; chain-link fencing at construction sites; and requiring contractors to limit noise pollution. The ordinances also will go before the P&Z before returning to the commission for public hearings in September.
Back-toschool we go! Privateers release scholarship award-winners, funding
Anna Maria elementary fourth-grader Kirra Quimby heads into school Aug. 17 — the first day of the 2020-21 school year. Islander Photo: Brook Morrison
AMe fourth-grader Jackson Kennedy, left, kindergartner luke Plummer, and his sister, fourthgrader lily, pose Aug. 17 in front of the AMe sign moments before their first day of class in the new year. Islander Photo: Courtesy Kari Kennedy
With students bound for college — in some fashion — the Anna Maria Island Privateers released scholarship funds for 2020-21. The nonprofit announced Aug. 14 it was sending checks to college scholars totaling $12,400. “Due to the COVID-19, it was a bleak time to try and raise funds,” the nonprofit said in a news release. “Many fundraisers had to be canceled due to social distancing, the lockdown, closed businesses and stayat-home orders.” Still, the Privateers raised enough to provide scholarships for seven previous winners who are continuing their education. The students include: • Anthony Cucci, Whitey Horton Scholarship, Florida State University in Tallahassee. • Ivelina Kioutchoukova, Sandpiper Resort Scholarship, University of Florida in Gainesville. • Eryn LaLonde, Shiprek Scholarship, University of Central Florida in Orlando. • Hannah Vreman, scholarship, Palm Beach Atlantic University in West Palm Beach. • Dylan Joseph, scholarship, State College of Florida in Bradenton. • Aaliyah Everette, scholarship, University of South Florida in Orlando. • Arthur Bellamy, scholarship, State College of Florida in Bradenton. For more information, contact liaison officer Tim “Hammer” Thompson at 941-780-1668.
Page 14 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Aug. 19, 2020 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................
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Page 16 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Aug. 19, 2020 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................
Gathering
Tidings
Ave., Anna Maria. Information: 941-778-0414. 9:30 a.m. — CrossPointe Fellowship, 8605 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-0719. REGULAR WORSHIP 9:30 a.m. — Episcopal Church of the Annunciation. Monday-Friday 10 a.m. — Roser Church. 8:30 a.m. — St. Bernard Catholic Church, 248 S. Harbor Drive, 10:30 a.m. — CrossPointe Fellowship. Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-4769. Thursday ONLINE WORSHIP 9:30 a.m. — Church of the Annunciation, 4408 Gulf Drive, Christ Church of Longboat Key, christchurchlbk.org. Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-1638. CrossPointe Fellowship, Facebook. Saturday Catholic Diocese of Venice, Spectrum cable TV. 4 p.m. — St. Bernard Catholic Church. Episcopal Church of the Annunciation, Facebook. Sunday CrossPointe Fellowship seeks to boost fellowship Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, Facebook. 8:30 a.m. — St. Bernard Catholic Church. with Wednesday Night Blast events. Harvey Memorial Community Church, Facebook. 8:30 a.m. — Roser Memorial Community Church, 512 Pine The church tradition was preempted by the coroLongboat Island Chapel, longboatislandchapel.org. navirus pandemic. Now, leadership and members are Roser Church, roserchurch.com.
CrossPointe planning Blast
St. B collecting for shoe drive discussing how the events will operate. St. Bernard Catholic Church is collecting donaRegistration for the first event will be 6:15 p.m. in tions for Stillpoint Missions’ annual shoe drive. the fellowship hall, 8605 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. The Bradenton-based mission seeks to provide The Blasts will begin Sept. 2, with a supper at 6:15 children with shoes for the new school year. p.m. and kids groups and adult study at 6:45 p.m. St. Bernard suggests $20 donations to assist the For more, call the church at 941-778-0719. campaign. Gathering Donations can be sent to Shoes for Stillpoint MisPlease, send announcements, photographs and cal- sions, P.O. Box 619, Bradenton FL 34206. For more information, call the church office at endar listings for the religion page to news@islander. 941-778-4769. org and calendar@islander.org.
Obituaries
John ‘J.B.’ Cooper Bennett
John “J.B.” Cooper Bennett, 74, died July 27 in Atlantic Beach. He was born in Jacksonville Jan. 19, 1946. He first visited Anna Maria Island in the 1980s. He fell in love with the island and eventually purchased a vacation home on Pine Avenue. When in town, he enjoyed fishing at the Rod & Reel Pier, playing horseshoes at city hall, boating and catching up Bennett with the locals. As an adolescent, he was diagnosed with diabetes and became a passionate advocate for diabetes awareness and research efforts. He was president of the Juvenile Diabetes Foundation and volunteered to consult young, newly diagnosed diabetes patients. After a career spanning more than 40 years, he retired from work with his longtime friend Jennifer Duke and her family. He liked to be near the water. When not in his hometown of Jacksonville or on Anna Maria Island,
he enjoyed fishing in the mountains of North Carolina. He also enjoyed traveling, regaling stories, watching the Florida Gators and Jacksonville Jaguars, visiting with loved ones and driving, whether it be a car, boat or RV. Many knew Mr. Bennett for his beaming smile, tall stature and fun-loving nature — and for his kindness and generosity. He never knew a stranger. A celebration of life will be planned in Jacksonville. To receive updates or share photos or memories with family members, email inmemoryofjohnbennett@gmail.com. Memorial donations are suggested to a favorite charity. He is survived by his life partner, Mary King of Atlantic Beach; brother Roberts O. and wife Orinda Evans of Atlanta; sisters-in-law Kathy King of Jacksonville and Joni Adno of Sarasota; brother-in-law John King and wife Joy of Neptune Beach; nieces and nephews Wells and wife Debra and their children Katerina and Reid of Washington, D.C., Ian Eckerson of Sarasota, Elizabeth of Washington, D.C., Kristen King and William Smith of New York City, Mason King of Neptune Beach and Henry King of Neptune Beach; many cousins; and dear friends.
GOOD NEWS W� invit� yo� t� w�shi� wit� u�
in the sanctuary! www.RoserChurch.com Click WORSHIP-SIGNUP to �eview th� �ocia� distancin� guideline� an� �eserv� you� �ea�. I� yo� prefe� t� �ta� hom�, please WATCH LIVE
SAVE THE DATES Sept. 18-20, Rosh Hashanah. Sept. 27-28, Yom Kippur Nov. 1, All Saints Day. Dec. 10-18, Hanukkah. Dec. 25, Christmas. Please, send notices to calendar@islander.org. — lisa Neff
Judith L. Treacy
Judith L. (Kures) Treacy of Holmes Beach died Aug. 10. She was born in Cleveland to Donald Bott and Janet (Monahan). Donald Bott died in WWII, before she was born. Her mother remarried and raised her with her adopted father, John Kures. She was a longtime teacher in the treacy Bedford City Schools retired from the Nordonia Hills City School District in Ohio. She enjoyed traveling and spending winters with her husband, Robert, on Anna Maria Island. She also loved spending time with her family and friends. A service was held Aug. 15 in Stow, Ohio. Memorial donations may be made to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, Northern Ohio Chapter, 23297 Commerce Park, Cleveland, Ohio 44122. Mrs. Treacy is survived by her loving husband of 51 years, Robert B.; daughter Jennifer and husband Andrew Miller; and grandchildren Margaret, Benjamin, Amelia and Nathaniel.
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.
Growing in Jesus’ Name The Rev. Dr. Norman Pritchard
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You can read all the best news online at www.islander.org
Aug. 19, 2020 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 17 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................
Former Bradenton Beach mayor reflects, shares vision By ChrisAnn Allen Islander Reporter
It took a journalist to make him a politician. “We didn’t always agree, but we could still walk away and be good friends,” former Bradenton Beach Mayor Bill Shearon said June 25 of his relationship with the late Islander editor Paul Roat. They eventually developed a friendship and shared a vision for a brighter future for Bradenton Beach. “My philosophy to agree to disagree, but still fight for what I felt was right, persisted throughout my time in city government,” Shearon said. “I go 110% or I don’t go at all.” Previously working as an independent petroleum marketer, Shearon was a self-professed “workaholic,” who retired young. “As a businessman, I often dealt with politicians, but it wasn’t until I came to Bradenton Beach that I ever thought I’d be one myself,” he said. He became a resident of the city in 2003 after living aboard a boat traveling between Chicago and Florida with his life partner of 25 years, Tjet Martin. From 2001-03, Shearon and Martin built Linger Longer, their private residence and a vacation rental, in the historic area of the city. During that time, Shearon began to lose his eyesight to retinitis pigmentosa. When he told Roat of his frustrations with permitting and construction of Linger Longer, Roat recommended he run for public office. “I decided it was time to give back,” Shearon said. “But I also felt there had to be a better, more productive and accountable way to run the city. Paul was always there for me to bounce ideas off of.” Shearon served on the planning and zoning board, then as a city commissioner 2004-07 before defeating incumbent John Shaughnessy by 17 votes in the 2013 mayoral race. As mayor, he first took aim at the administration. “I faced a lot of uphill battles when I came in,” Shearon said. “There was so much stuff that had fallen through the cracks.” Mayor John Chappie shakes hands with former Mayor Bill Shearon in December 2017 on presenting Shearon with a certificate of appreciation for his service to the city. Islander File Photo: ChrisAnn Allen
Bradenton Beach Police Chief Sam Speciale, left, and Mayor Bill Shearon attend a 2017 meeting of the Manatee County Board of Commissioners. Islander File Photo: ChrisAnn Allen
There was no city clerk or treasurer, record-keeping had been poor and policies and procedures needed updating. City employees “wore many hats,” according to Shearon, with minimal accountability. Shearon also said he found the city’s weak mayor form of government, which allows the mayor an equal vote, but prohibits communication with commissioners outside of meetings, effective, but “cumbersome.” “I always felt that I had one hand tied behind my back,” he said, adding that for a weak mayor form of government to work well, the city requires professional management, like a business. “My greatest wish for the city would be to acquire
professional administration to get the best bang for the buck, with budgeted projects done in a professional manner, rather than by volunteers,” Shearon said. “That, to me, is the hope for the future.” As the number of full-time residents dwindles, the pool of possible candidates lessens, he added. He said a city manager could oversee contractors to ensure they were not overspending, as well as develop organized plans for city projects. “A city manager or administrator would allow for checks and balances, and would save the city money in the long run,” Shearon said. “I met with resistance when I tried to assume those sorts of responsibilities for the city.” Even so, Shearon was able to bring the city budget back into shape. “When I was elected mayor, there was a material weakness and we had been running a deficit budget for years,” Shearon said. “I worked with the staff and commissioners as a team to create a balanced budget. That to me was a huge accomplishment.” He cites the reconstruction of the Historic Bridge Street Pier as another significant achievement. Plans for reconstructing the pier, originally built in 1921, with piecemeal repairs and restorations over the years, had commenced by the time Shearon took office in 2013. With help from pier team facilitator, Police Chief Sam Speciale, Shearon guided the effort and the new pier was completed in January 2015. Half of the pier’s $1.4 million cost was paid by the city, with the other half matched by the Manatee County Tourist Development Council, and Shearon takes great pride in the accomplishment. Shearon and Speciale also attempted to develop a mooring field in the bay waters surrounding the city pier, but the cost to the city was deemed too high. Shearon said the development and completion of the pier was a task that involved rigorous planning and documentation, as well as compromise. “My work with Sam (Speciale) taught me a lot about respect,” Shearon said. “And that, in politics, does not happen all the time. We proved our ways to each other. And we did our best for the city.” Shearon said of the pier opening, “It may have been the happiest day of my life.” He said the support of the county and other island cities on behalf of the project was fulfilling. “In the end, I wanted their buy-in,” he said. “And that is what it will take for the future of this island. People need to learn, as I did years ago from Paul Roat, sometimes we disagree. But to succeed, we must seek to understand each other and work together to get through it, to do what is best for the future of the island. It’s the only way.” Editor’s note: Bill Shearon, who was diagnosed with cancer earlier this year, is receiving hospice care at home.
Another former BB mayor works to save, rehome archival binders By ChrisAnn Allen Islander Reporter
Former Bradenton Beach Mayor Katie Pierola is trying to preserve hard copies of the history she helped forge on Anna Maria Island. And a city ordinance might be the answer. Pierola has a set of 20 3-inch binders containing thousands of pages of clippings, reports and studies from 1985-95. The content is digitized, but Pierola wants a permanent home for the hard copies and her hard work. Most of the information in the binders is on struggles to oppose the Florida Department of Transportation’s plans for mega-bridges connecting the island to the mainland, as well as early beach renourishment projects. “The information was too important to throw away,” Pierola said July 29. “So I spent about two years putting it in binders.” Since then, the binders have been on a journey. First they went to the Island Library in Holmes Beach, a branch of the Manatee County Public Library system. But people were removing pages and handling the binders carelessly, so the library asked her to pick
flood and the records be destroyed, the binders were moved to the Central Library in Bradenton, where they were digitized, but not sorted or uploaded to the library’s online historical collection, according to Ericka Dow, information services supervisor at the main library. Dow said July 30 that the binders were so voluminous that it would take time to remove repetitive information and upload the material. But the task will be completed and credit will be given to Pierola for her contribution. In the meantime, Pierola retrieved the binders from the Central Library and has hopes to return them to Tingley. She said Tingley’s librarian said it was OK to bring Former Bradenton Beach Mayor Katie Pierola the binders back but, before doing so, Pierola decided displays the binders she compiled on AMI issues. to put her past government experience to work. Islander File Photo: Bonner Joy She wrote and proposed an ordinance that is set for discussion at the Bradenton Beach City Commission them up, Pierola said. meeting at 2 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 20, asking the city After that, representatives of Tingley Memorial to preserve the binders in the permanent collection at Library in Bradenton Beach said they could be placed Tingley. there, where the materials remained for years. “I don’t know why God sent me these things, but However, following concerns the library could I just can’t see throwing them away.”
Page 18 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Aug. 19, 2020 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................
Milestone
Rigney-Nance cousins celebrate, take on skate park the grandkids of Johnny and Cherri Rigney of Holmes Beach line up Aug. 11 at the Holmes Beach skate park to celebrate a birthday. the grommets are emma Rigney, left, grant Rigney, Noah Rigney, garrison Rigney, Ben Rigney Jr., lyla Nance, Ann Marie Rigney and 10-year-old Carter Nance, the birthday boy. their parents are Johnny and Alisha Rigney, Ben and Cori Rigney, shawna and Jeremy Nance. Islander Courtesy Photos
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Aug. 19, 2020 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 19 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................
Longboat, DEP await final tests on bay sewage spill By lisa Neff Islander editor
Longboat Key’s consultant in mid-August continued testing to determine the impact of a sewage spill in a mangrove forest along Sarasota Bay. “Forensic evaluations into the cause and extent of the force main leak are ongoing,” the town stated in a news release Aug. 12. The spill began June 17 and continued until June 30, when crews cleared a path through the mangroves on undeveloped land at Long Bar Pointe to repair Longboat Key’s wastewater pipe. The pipe reaches underwater from the key to a county sewage treatment plant in Bradenton, but the break was on land in Bradenton. Early reports from the town estimated 26 million gallons of raw sewage spilled from the pipeline, but the state has reduced the estimate to 17 million gallons, according to U.S. Rep. Vern Buchanan, R-Longboat Key. The congressman tweeted Aug. 11, “Just got off
the phone with Florida’s secretary of Environmental Protection about his investigation of the sewage leak into Sarasota Bay. Secretary Noah Valenstein estimates the leak at 17 million gallons, not 26 as originally reported.” Buchanan also tweeted, “No decision yet on whether the state will take action against Longboat Key for a delay in reporting the incident.” The spill went unchecked for 12 days and Longboat Key was not the first entity to file a report with the Florida Department of Environmental Protection. The watchdog environmental group Suncoast Waterkeeper filed with the DEP the first pollution notice, which was released June 30. The town contracted with Environmental Science Associates to study the incident, as well as determine the amount of pollution to reach the bay. In an update to the town released Aug. 12, ESA associate Dave Tomasko said preliminary findings found human-related pollution at one of six test sample sites. The station was about two miles from the spill
Anna Maria property owner calls for drainage improvements Not everyone is happy with Anna Maria’s stormwater drainage systems. William Hatch, owner of property at 416 Alamanda Road, spoke at a July 30 city commission meeting. He and his wife bought the underdeveloped lot to build their retirement home. However, he said work had been delayed because the lot frequently is covered with pooling water, shown in photos taken July 29. Hatch asked the city to hire an engineer to examine
the drainage, as well as implement improvements. But public works director Dean Jones presented photos taken July 30 that showed the pooled water had drained within 24 hours. “The infiltration system works,” Jones said. “That’s all I have to say.” Hatch said he scheduled a meeting with Mayor Dan Murphy to discuss the issue, but also wanted to publicly present his concerns. — Ryan Paice
FPL removes Bridge Street utility poles As the sun rises in Bradenton Beach, florida Power & light workers are at work removing the utility lines and poles Aug. 12 on Bridge street. the crew worked overnight to complete the final step of a community redevelopment agency project to bury utility lines in the strip. Islander Courtesy Photo: Ricinda Perry
Then and now on Bridge Street A perspective of Bridge street in Bradenton Beach before the CRA buried the roadway’s utility lines and had fPl remove utility poles. Islander Photos: Ryan Paice
u.s. Rep. Vern Buchanan is monitoring the response to a raw sewage spill in sarasota Bay earlier this summer. the congressman tweeted an update Aug. 11. Islander screenshot
site, the farthest out in the bay. “Still don’t have the second round of analysis back yet,” Tomasko added. ESA will provide the town with a final report, which the town will provide to the public and the Florida Department of Environmental Protection. The DEP and watchdog groups continues to monitor the review.
Coquina Beach takes $3K hit from tornado By Ryan Paice Islander Reporter
Storm damage at Coquina Beach in Bradenton Beach will set Manatee County back some shell. County information outreach manager Nicholas Azzara wrote in an Aug. 12 email to The Islander that the Aug. 9 storm that brought a waterspout ashore caused $3,370 in damages. The waterspout occurred about 6:15 p.m. After crossing over the shoreline, the twister toppled an old, defunct lifeguard stand, destroyed a $2,700 changing station and a $220 picnic table, as well as toppled three buttonwood trees valued at $450. No injuries were reported. Azzara said the lifeguard stand was scheduled for demolition Aug. 10, “so no loss there.” The structure was disassembled and removed the week ending Aug. 14. A new changing station will be “added to the construction team’s list of projects,” and the buttonwood trees “eventually” will be replaced, according to Azzara. County parks and natural resources operations manager Carmine DeMilio led the debris removal. DeMilio’s crew used a lightning loader, a truck equipped with a lifting arm and a dumpster bucket, to remove some of the heavy debris. A tractor was used to remove the changing room. The county plans to file insurance claims for the damages. “Hopefully, most of those losses will be covered,” Azzara wrote.
A perspective of Bridge street in Bradenton Beach Aug. 12, after fPl removed utility poles along the roadway.
Page 20 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Aug. 19, 2020 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................
turtle Watch volunteers Bill Booher, Carla Boehme and linda oNeal dig nests Aug. 12 for sea turtle eggs being relocated from a beach renourishment zone. Islander Courtesy Photo
Nesting notes By ChrisAnn Allen
Turtle watch volunteers ‘roll with tide,’ new experiences
They knew this year would be different. Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring volunteers have faced some unusual challenges in 2020. A $17 million beach renourishment project was slated to possibly begin in April, a month before the official start of the sea turtle nesting season on Anna Maria Island. Allen The project, which started on the shore at 77th Street in Holmes Beach and will continue south to Longboat Pass, didn’t commence until early July. However, AMITW volunteers had to relocate all nests to Anna Maria, north of the project area, so they were not destroyed or covered with sand piped from offshore to replenish the beach. “We all knew there were going to be some changes because of beach renourishment,� Kathy Doddridge, a veteran AMITW volunteer, said Aug. 5. “But, when COVID-19 came, we also had to think about how to keep everyone safe.� Modifications included beach patrols by a handful of people on ATVs, spotting tracks leading to nests on the beach. The teams removed the eggs for relocation to nests dug by volunteers at the north end, who awaited the nest spotters headed their way with buckets of eggs. Previously, nearly 100 turtle watch volunteers took turns conducting daily beach walks May-October on nine 1-mile sections of beach to look for the tractorlike tracks indicating a newly laid sea turtle nest or, later in the season, tracks made by hatchlings headed to the Gulf of Mexico. “Taking it from 90 volunteers to less than 20 was hard,� Doddridge said. “But it has been the best thing for us this season because we feel secure in our small group and can work quickly.� As of Aug. 12, AMITW had relocated 348 nests. Due to the renourishment project, which runs 24/7, turtle watch also has been running a night patrol with the project crew on the beach. Volunteers would “clear the area� by ensuring no nesting turtles had emerged onto a stretch of shore about to be renourished or traversed by the equipment. Skip Coyne, leading the night patrol, ran 10-hour night shifts every night for two weeks in July — during peak nesting. Coyne signaled to the crew by turning his ATV sideways when he spotted a turtle, which prompted a halt in the construction and lights out, while workers waited for the turtle to nest and return to the Gulf.
Coyne then staked the nest, so the crew of turtle watch volunteers could spot it and collect and transfer the clutch of about 100 eggs at dawn. Eventually, the 10-hour shift was divided into two shifts, with the second time slot ending near sunrise. “We’ve had to be flexible and figure out how to innovate as we go,� Coyne said. “It’s worked out incredibly well.� As one of Coyne’s tag-teams on the night shift, which work six mornings a week, AMITW volunteers Hans Duerr and Birgit Kremer tested their skills and had some new experiences. They relocated about 120 nests, including, on July 3, the only green sea turtle nest on the island. Additionally, Duerr and Kremer helped rescue a turtle they discovered one morning trapped at a building after it nested in Holmes Beach. “We were able to rescue her and get her headed back to the ocean,� he said. “It was wonderful.� Kremer said many nests were located high in the dunes where they were hard to spot. “You have to open your mind and think like a turtle,� she said. “They’ve been especially tricky this year.� While nests marked with stakes and tape provide some protection for incubating hatchlings, making them visible, the goal is to retrieve data. Nesting nearly has ended and the relocated nests are hatching nightly. Turtle watch goes into action 72 hours after a nest AMItW volunteers Brigit Kremer, left, and skip Coyne and executive director suzi fox watch June 30 as a rescued sea turtle returns to the water. Islander Photo: Courtesy Hans Duerr
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hatches, excavating the nest, accounting for hatched eggs, partially formed eggs, those that didn’t hatch and dead hatchlings. The data is shared with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, as well as other local state and federal agencies. Turtle watch estimated about 6,657 hatchlings made it to the Gulf of Mexico as of Aug. 12. Turtle watch volunteer Bill Booher, who previously patrolled a section on the north end of the island, hadn’t planned to work for turtle watch this season. However, as nesting picked up, AMITW executive director Suzi Fox asked if he could step in to help as needed. Booher has been working with AMITW volunteers Linda ONeal and Carla Boehme in the “nursery� to dig nests similar to those created by a turtle and fill them with eggs. Now that nesting has slowed, he’s helping with excavations. Booher said about 6-10 nests have been hatching daily since Aug. 1. And he has enjoyed lending a hand to the rest of the crew. “One thing about change — it’s constant,� he said. “And sometimes it leads to something that can really be better. This season is proof that turtle watch can roll with the tide.� For more information on the nesting season, contact AMITW executive director Suzi Fox at suzifox@ gmail.com or 941-778-5638.
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Aug. 19, 2020 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 21 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................
Pastimes at Passage Key Beachgoers intrude on the beach and the birds taking refuge in a large tidal pool at Passage Key — just 20-30 feet from a posted sign that the island is a national wildlife refuge and bird sanctuary — closed to people and dogs. Islander file Photo
By Lisa Neff
Season for covering up
Seems a day doesn’t go by this summer without comments on covering up. The spread of the coronavirus fueled the push for face coverings for our health and the public good. Cover up, doctors recommended. Cover up, workers pleaded. Cover up, political leaders ordered. A visit to the dermatologist for surgery to remove skin cancer prompted a doctor’s reminder about protection from the sun. Cover up with a quality sunscreen, the doctor advised. Cover up with a wide-brimmed Neff hat, she added. A meeting of the Anna Maria City Commission resulted in the passage of an ordinance — later vetoed — amending the liquor law in the city in regards to indecent exposure. Cover up, commissioners said. And by cover up, they meant covering breasts regardless of gender at indoor and outdoor establishments serving liquor. I read the first report on Anna Maria’s short-lived no-nipples measure the same day I came across a sensation on social media, Reese Witherspoon’s challenge meme. The actress shared a three-by-three photo collage, documenting her transition from January through September from perfectly preppie to gone wild. “Yup. #2020challenge,” she wrote, inspiring thousands to take the challenge and share selfie collages documenting their plunge from polished to petrified, then weary and wild. Is too much time in our domiciles making us undomesticated? I’m looking woolly and feeling edgy. My wife seems a little squirrelly. We both feel caged. So folks are letting it all hang out in Anna Maria? Is that why the commission changed the ordinance? Alas, the answer is no, or not yet.
The commissioners were not trying to control bad acts or people showing off, acting out or letting go. Instead, they wanted to provide a gender-neutral regulation that already prohibited females from exposing breasts — the exception being for those nursing infants. Well, the vote and the mayor’s veto triggered more conversations about covering up — some of them basic and some debasing, but also some serious talk about gender equality, constitutional law, nudity and nature. As a reporter, covering nudist excursions and
“Yup,” is Reese Witherspoon’s #2020challenge. Islander screenshot
retreats have fallen three times on my beat. I reported on the nudist activity among boaters congregating near Passage Key off Bean Point, a women-only camp and music festival in Michigan and a libertarian nudist camp in New Hampshire. The New Hampshire camp, still thriving after 60 years, consists of 350 wooded acres, beaches and a lake. I remember canoeing was a popular pastime. For the campers I profiled, nudity was about comfort and also freedom and a sense of being close to nature. So I wasn’t surprised when I surveyed five Anna Maria men about why and when they go shirtless — it’s comfortable and it’s natural. But I was surprised one of the men remembered challenges decades ago to laws that required everyone just about anywhere in the United States, including the beaches, to cover their tops. Men waged a series of protests, risking arrest to go “bareback bathing,” and, by 1937, the restrictions startled to topple — for males. A women’s campaign — the “free the nips” movement — is ongoing. In 2019, a New Hampshire case on the issue reached the U.S. Supreme Court, but the justices declined consideration. The dispute? Does an ordinance expressly punishing only women, but not men, for identical conduct — being topless in public — classify as discrimination based on gender? Does an ordinance criminalizing exposure of “the female breast,” under which only women are prosecuted for public exposure of their areolas, violate the 14th Amendment’s equal protection clause? Want to join the conversation on covering up? Or share your #2020challenge meme? You can email lisa@islander@org and also news@islander.org.
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Page 22 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Aug. 19, 2020 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................
Adult soccer nears end of run, kids up next on center field help preserve the victory. Nate Welch and Josh Sato scored a goal each to lead Sato Real Estate, which received four saves from Steve Oelfke in the loss. Adult soccer action resumed Aug. 13 with Moss Builders and Blalock Walters battling to a 3-3 tie. Daniel Anderson scored two goals and Brent Moss added one to lead Moss Builders, which also received 13 saves from Zack Long for the tie. Matthew Staggs led Blalock Walters with a pair of goals, while Matthew Plummer scored once and Trey Horne made seven saves in the tie. The second match of the night saw Beach Bums roll to an 11-6 victory in a game devoid of any defense. Connor Haughey’s four goals and two assists, along with three goals and two assists from Amy Ivin, paced Beach Bums, which also received two goals each from Robert Fellowes and Kevin Roman. Neil Fellowes added an assist while also making three saves in goal. Tim Holly led Signature Granite with four goals, while Cemal Duzgun and Chris Yavalar each added a goal in the loss. Ross Built moved up in the standings thanks in part to a 5-3 victory in the third match of the night behind two goals each from Greg Ross and Garrett Furman. Tyler Pullen added a goal and two assists, while Chris Circharo came through with 15 saves to help preserve the victory. Sean Flynn, Cole Peterson and Jenna Steininger each scored a goal to lead Vintage Beach, which received a combined 11 saves from Ben Sato and David Greene in the loss. The last match of the night saw Gulfview Windows and Doors cruise to an 8-3 victory over Solid Rock Construction behind a hat trick from Keith Mahoney and two goals and an assist from Daniel Adan. Raul Loera added a pair of goals for Gulfview, which also received a goal from Jesse Kunc and 10 saves from Matt Fletcher in the victory. Chris Scott’s two goals paced Solid Rock Construction, which also received a goal from Josh Furman and five saves from Mark Long in the loss. The action continues Aug. 20 with four matches on the center field, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria.
Kevin P. Cassidy Islander Reporter
The adult soccer season is rolling to a close in two weeks, but playoffs and the championship will keep the games going for the big kids. Games six and seven of the adult soccer league at the Center of Anna Maria Island are in the books and the standings are tight. Only two matches remain in the regular season. Sato Real Estate, Ross Built and Solid Cassidy Rock Construction reside at the top of the table with matching 4-2 records, while Beach Bums follows with a 3-3 record. Blalock Walters is next up on a 2-2-2 record with Vintage Beach right behind at 2-3-2. Moss Builders follows with a 2-3-1 record, while Signature Granite and Gulfview Windows and Doors bring up the rear with matching 2-4 records. Action Aug. 12 kicked off with Solid Rock Construction outscoring Blalock Walters 8-5 behind four goals from Josh Furman and two goals and two assists each from Chris Scott and Darrin Wash. Chris Culhane added a pair of assists and Mark Long made six saves to help preserve the victory. Matthew Staggs scored twice to lead Blalock Walters, which also received a goal apiece from Ryan Hogan, Matthew Plummer and Jessica Williams. Trey Horne came through with nine saves in the loss. Gulfview Windows and Doors received three goals and an assist from Daniel Adan in its 6-4 victory over Beach Bums in the second match of the evening. Emily Argeros, Raul Loera and Keith Mahoney each added goals and Brandin Holcomb made 10 saves in the victory. Kevin Roman, Amy Ivin, Connor Haughey and Robert Fellowes scored a goal each to lead Beach Bums in the loss. Signature Granite cruised to a 7-2 victory over Vintage Beach in the third match of the night on two goals each from Damir Glavan, Zack Lieb and Chris Yavalar. Cemal Duzgun added a goal and Scott Bear made seven saves to help preserve the victory. Nick Bouchard and Joey Hutchinson each scored to lead Vintage Beach, which received eight saves from David Greene in the loss. The last match of the night saw Ross Built out- Youth soccer returns score Sato 5-2 behind a hat trick from Garrett Furman The center is registering players age 4-17 for its and a goal each from Jake Ross and Eric Pullen. Chris fall youth soccer league with the cost $10 for members Circharo and Max Gazzo combined on eight saves to and $126 for nonmembers. The last day to register is Capt. Warren Girle, left, poses Aug. 16 with Cliff Coleman of Lakeland and Longboat Key, holding his permit, caught along with several others while fishing offshore with crabs for bait. Girle guided Coleman to the fish — all catch and release.
Horseshoe news Three teams emerged from pool play with 2-1 records and battled it out for the day’s supremacy during Aug. 12 horseshoe action at the Anna Maria City Hall horseshoe pits. Tim Sofran drew the lucky bye into the finals and watched as Norm Good and Neil Hennessey advanced to the finals with a dominating 22-8 victory over Jerry Disbrow and Bob Heiger. Good and Hennessey rallied to earn a 21-17 come-from-behind victory over Sofran to win the day. The Aug. 15 games saw Sofran and Heiger team up to forge the lone 3-0 record in pool play and the win the day. 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. Key Royale news The routine has returned to the Key Royale Club in Holmes Beach, at least as far as regularly scheduled golf outings are concerned. The men got things started Aug. 10 with the weekly nine-hole modified-Stableford match. Ron Vandeman earned serious clubhouse bragging rights after carding a plus-4 to take first place. The team of Mike Cusato, Bill MacMillan and Bill Shuman combined on a plus-3 to win the team competition. The Key Royale women took to the course Aug. 11 for a nine-hole individual-low-net match. Jana Samuels fired a 2-under-par 30 to grab first place for the day. Fran Barford took second on an evenpar 32 and Helen Pollock’s 1-over-par 33 was good for third. The men were back on the course Aug. 13 for a nine-hole scramble. A nice battle for clubhouse bragging rights ensued between the team of Gary Alvord, Dave Richardson and Deb Richardson, who matched the 3-under-par 29, from the team of Art McMillan, Chuck Patrick, Bill Shuman and Quentin Talbert. Not sure which team had to pick up the tab at the club.
Fishing tip! If you hook a bird, remember: Reel, remove, release!
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Aug. 25. Player evaluations will be Aug. 26 starting at 6 p.m. for the 8-10 division players, followed by the 11-13 and 14-17 divisions at 7:30 p.m. There are no evaluations for the 3-5 or 6-7 age divisions. The center will host a free-for-all players clinic 6-7 p.m. Aug. 12 and Aug. 19 to help refresh kids on the soccer basics. Volunteer coaches are also being sought. For more information, contact Connor Haughey at 941-778-1908, ext. 209, or connor@centerami.org.
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Anna Maria Island Tides
Date
Aug 19 Aug 20 Aug 21 Aug 22 Aug 23 Aug 24 Aug 25 Aug 26
AM
HIGH
1:53a 2:10a 2:31a 2:55a 3:25a 4:00a 4:43a 5:37a
1.7 1.8 1.8 2.0 2.1 2.3 2.4 2.5
PM
12:26p 1:18p 2:11p 3:09p 4:15p 5:39p 7:43p —
HIGH
AM
2.9 5:50a 2.9 6:42a 2.7 7:37a 2.4 8:36a 2.1 9:42a 1.8 10:57a 1.6 12:25p — 1:56p
LOW
PM
1.3 7:43p 1.1 8:18p 0.9 8:53p 0.7 9:25p 0.6 9:56p 0.6 10:25p 0.5 10:50p 0.4 —
LOW
Moon
0.0 NEW 0.2 0.5 0.8 1.0 1.3 1.5 1st —
AM City Pier tides; Cortez high tides 7 minutes later — lows 1:06 later
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Aug. 19, 2020 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 23 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................
Head out for social distance and a hook up with fish By Capt. Danny stasny Islander Reporter
Amid the dark cloud over our heads called COVID19, many people are finding the best place to be is on the water surrounding Anna Maria Island. What better way to avoid crowds than a peaceful morning fishing the clear waters of Tampa Bay and beyond? Fishing the inshore waters is yielding good action, despite our stasny record-breaking heat and high water temps. Morning fishing is best, especially for catch-andrelease snook and redfish. As the day heats up, fishing deeper flats for catchand-release spotted seatrout also is productive. As a bonus, the deeper grass flats host a variety of other species — Spanish mackerel, bluefish, ladyfish, jack crevalle and especially mangrove snapper. The small snapper seem to be everywhere. Patient anglers are catching limits of these feisty little fish regularly by scaling down their leader and hook sizes variety of groupers. Numerous sharks are present, too. to trick the fish into biting. Anglers moving offshore will find yellowtail and So reel up those snappers fast to avoid having them mangrove snappers, as well as permit, amberjack and a chomped away. On my Southernaire charters, I’m targeting catchand-release snook and reds first thing, while the waters are slightly cooler after the darkness of night. Casting free-lined shiners around mangroves, oyster bars and residential docks yields good numbers of fish. As the sun rises and warms the water, I’m moving to deeper grass flats to target catch-and-release spotted seatrout. Mixed in are Spanish mackerel, ladyfish, jack crevalle, bluefish and, best of all, mangrove snapper. These little guys are everywhere, and I am enjoying watching anglers reel in their limits for dinner. Capt. Warren Girle is finding a limit of mangoes throughout the deeper grass flats of Sarasota Bay. By free-lining small shiners in these areas, Girle is finding schools of snapper taking up temporary residence in the turtle grass. Mixed in are macks, bluefish and catch-and-release spotted seatrout. On some recent offshore adventures, Girle lucked into large permit at the offshore wrecks. Over the wrecks, Girle is putting anglers on limits of yellowtail snapper and some large mangrove snapper. Capt. Aaron Lowman is targeting a variety of species while anchored over the deep grass in Tampa Bay, where Spanish mackerel, ladyfish and catch-andrelease trout are taking baits. As a bonus, anglers are Izzy stasny, 10, shows off her catch, a 6-pound catching limits of mangrove snapper. jack crevalle, from a final fishing trip Aug. 14 before Moving shallower, along the mangrove-lined shore the start of school. Izzy fished with her dad, Capt. and oyster bars, Lowman is putting clients on catchDanny stasny of southernaire charters and Islander and-release snook and redfish. outdoors reporter. Moving into the Gulf, Lowman is hooking into
Fishing Charters
Southernaire Fishing Charters
Capt. Warren Girle
Christian Bruggeman and his dad, David, of Burlington, Kentucky, hoist a nice red grouper caught on a live pinfish Aug. 5 in 120 feet of water offshore of Anna Maria Island while on a fishing trip with Capt. David White of Anna Maria Charters.
permit and bonita, as well as keeper-size gag grouper over the inshore reefs. Jim Malfese at the Rod & Reel Pier says catchand-release snook are appearing more frequently. Some catch-and-release redfish are being caught, too. For anglers looking to catch dinner, mangrove snapper are accommodating at the pier. Limits of the tasty fish are taking live shrimp offerings. Light fluorocarbon leader and small hooks are the perfect recipe to attain the limit of five snapper. As for migratory fish, some ladyfish and jack crevalle are being caught on small white jigs. Capt. Jason Stock is enjoying time at the fillet table as he returns to the dock from his offshore charters. Yellowtail and mangrove snapper limits are keeping him busy and his clients smiling in anticipation of a fish fry. Amberjack and permit are being caught offshore and well-suited for fishers who like something big on the end of the line. Other fierce adversaries in the offshore mix include bonita, goliath grouper and a variety of sharks. Capt. David White is finding success by chumming yellowtail snapper to the boat while anchored all over wrecks and reefs in the Gulf of Mexico. Mixed in with the yellowtails are some large mangrove snapper for a little variety in the cooler. Since the opening of the amberjack fishery Aug. 1, White has been spending time targeting the powerful fish. Also, red grouper are taking a hook over hard bottom areas in depth around 100 feet. Send high-resolution photos and fishing reports to fish@islander.org.
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Page 24 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Aug. 19, 2020 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................
I S L A N D E R C L A S S I F I E D S ITEMS FOR SALE
ITEMS FOR SALE Continued
HELP WANTED
SINGLE BED MATTRESS cover, assorted comforter and bedskirt. Pearl grey settee bench, $99. 941-779 -9781.
ANTIQUE OFFICE chairs: Perfect for eclectic dining set. Circa 1950 from Anna Maria City Hall. The Islander newspaper, 3218 E. Bay Drive, Holmes Beach. 941-778-7978.
WANTED: GENERAL MANAGER. Will train. Inquire in person at Vinny’s Italian Kitchen, 5337 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach.
DOG CRATE, $15, doggy stairs, $25, dog carry tote, $25. All excellent condition. 941-761-1393.
FREEBIE ITEMS FOR SALE
WALL MOUNT, SWIVEL arm, metal shelf, 14-by10-inch surface, holds up to 65 lbs. $30. 443-8768809.
Individuals may place one free ad with up to three items, each priced $100 or less, 15 words or less. FREE, one week, must be submitted online. Email classifieds@islander.org, fax toll-free 1-866-3629821. (limited time offer)
CAR ROOF RACK: Fits Hyundai Tucson, $100, oil paintings, $25, like new, 941-920-2494.
ANNOUNCEMENTS
SHIP’S WHEEL TABLE: Capt. J. Lindroth original masterpiece of inlaid wood and brass. 19-inches tall, 45-inch diameter. $1,500. Also, related pieces. marinateal@gmail.com
WANTED: WORKOUT DVDs and retired but working XBox, Wii units with games for Ministry of Presence for kids and teens in Haiti. Deliver to The Islander, 3218 E. Bay Drive, Holmes Beach.
ANTIQUE PARTNER DESK: All wood, $1,000. See at The Islander office, 3218 E. Bay Drive, Holmes Beach. 941-778-7978.
WANTED: YOUR OLD cellphone for recycling. Deliver to The Islander, 3218 E. Bay Drive, Holmes Beach.
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ANSWERS TO AUG. 19 PUZZLE G R O V E R
R V T E R R A I A R P I N S T A L A O N I N G N G O L O A R O T I P E A T
HELP RESCUED PETS! Volunteer, foster, computer help needed! Moonracer Animal Rescue. Email: moonraceranimalrescue@gmail.com.
TRANSPORTATION 1994 BMW CONVERTIBLE: 318iC. Two-door, white, all good, all working, but no air conditioning. Better than a golf cart! $999. 941-730-2606.
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.
FISHING loCAl fIsHINg guIDe for hire. Wanna catch more fish, have better bait, learn the local waters? Your boat, my knowledge. Call Nelly, 40 years local fishing experience. 941896-2915.
sPoNsoReD BY
H O O P
PETS
BIMINI BAY SAILING: Small sailboat rentals and instruction. Day. Week. Month. Sunfish, Laser, Windrider 17 and Precision 15. Call Brian at 941685-1400. Honey is 5 years old. She is up to date with vaccinations, spayed and looking for a loving family. To meet this sweetie, call Lisa Williams at 941-345-2441 or visit The Islander office in Holmes Beach. For more about pet adoption or to adopt Honey, visit moonraceranimalrescue.com.
S C R A P E R
FREE GUN LOCK courtesy of Project Childsafe, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and Holmes Beach Police Department. Pick up at The Islander office, 3218 E. Bay Drive, Holmes Beach. Don’t be sorry, be safe.
BOATS & BOATING
AdoptA-Pet
I C E B E R G M A T I N E E S T A N D I N E N T Z A N Y S L E P E E S E B I R T H S R A D I O C A A S A O A R F A L L I N G I M E A N T S O R O S I H A T S D M L E G S C A P U L A Q U A L I F Y U P L A S T I R A T E P S O R T F E H U G E A N Y S E R T H
AERIAL PHOTOS of Anna Maria Island. View and purchase online: www.jackelka.com.
A R P T O M E H E R O M O N L S N A Y J E N L A S T I I N E D E I X E I O S B O N M O M S A O P A R K I R I X R I D E A E T O N R O U N D C U R A C H I E F M I S S O D E S E R S Y
N E Y
S N E R T S N A G S E V I T E
M A G M A J I G G L E S
REPORTER WANTED: Full- to part-time. Print media, newspaper experience required. Apply via email with letter of interest to news@islander. org.
KIDS FOR HIRE KIDS FOR HIRE ads are FREE for up to three weeks for Island youths under 16 looking for work. Ads must be placed in person at The Islander office, 3218 E. Bay Drive, Holmes Beach.
SERVICES u flY I drive your car anywhere in the usA. Airport runs, anywhere. office, 941-4476389. 941-545-6688. NEED A RIDE to airports? Tampa $65, St. Pete, $55, Sarasota, $30. Gary, 863-409-5875. gvoness80@gmail.com. CLEANING: VACATION, CONSTRUCTION, residential, commercial and windows. We service VRBO and Airbnb. Licensed and insured. 941744-7983. PRESSURE WASHING, PAVER sealing, driveway, roof, fence, pool area. Also, window cleaning. Licensed and insured. 941-565-3931. I DON’T CUT corners, I clean corners. Professional, friendly cleaning service since 1999. 941779-6638. Leave message.
BAYsHoRe HoMe WAtCH (accredited service): Providing certified professional weekly home checks. Peace of mind while you’re away. 941-920-5597. Bonded/insured. KleAN MoVes: Best movers in AMI. small moves, long distance and local deliveries. No job too big or too small. senior discounts. 941877-6580. Ask for Reggie. KleanMoves.com.
If you go, know shore-based shark fishing regs
C A B E L L O
U S E A L O T
S E A D O V E
S T R E W E D
C A R R
A Y E A Y E S I R
A N N M E Y E R S
N E S P R E S S O
E N T O
WANTED ON ANNA Maria Island: Experienced vacation rental office manager for growing international real estate company to manage the vacation rental business. Required: All-arounder, experience in the vacation rental industry and related tasks like handling the reservation system, keep track of funds and handle basic bookkeeping, good phone etiquette, customer serviceoriented, team player, supervising housekeeping and maintenance management coordination. Language skills a plus. Experience required. Send your resume to MS, 3340 E. Bay Drive, Holmes Beach, FL 34217.
E N G O U T O O P T O S I S E E
If you plan to target or keep sharks caught from shore, including structures attached to shore such as jetties, bridges and piers, you are required to pass an online educational course found at myfwc.com/ sharkcourse. Once completed, you will be prompted to go to FWC’s online licensing system, where you can get an annual no-cost, shore-based shark fishing permit. You are not required to have this permit if you are fishing for sharks from a vessel. The permit is required for all shore-based shark anglers age 16 and older, including those 65 and older who are normally exempt from needing a fishing license. The permit also is required if you are 16 and
older and plan to fish from shore for any species of fish and will be: • Fishing with a metal leader more than 4 feet long, • Using a fighting belt/harness, or • Deploying bait by any means other than casting (kayaking for example) while using a hook that is 1 1/2 inches or larger at the widest inside distance. Anglers younger than 16 are not required to obtain the permit but are required to take the online educational course unless they are fishing with someone else who holds a shore-based shark fishing permit. Source: Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission
PLACE CLASSIFIED ADS ONLINE AT ISLANDER.ORG
Aug. 19, 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 Continued
EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY
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. 219-313-9938. privatechefmm. com.
CORNERSTONE OUTDOORS: LANDSCAPE, installs, tree trimming, full-service lawn maintenance, cleanups, pressure washing. 941-2841568.
All real estate advertising herein is subject to the Fair Housing Act, which makes it illegal to advertise any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status or national origin, or intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination Familial status includes children under age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians, pregnant women and people securing custody of children under 18. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. To complain of discrimination, call HUD toll-free at 1-800-669-9777 or for the hearing impaired, call 0-800-543-8294.
AVAILABLE: EXPERIENCED MALE home health caregiver. Excellent references. Call 941-242-0370.
VAN-GO PAINTING residential/commercial, interior/exterior, pressure cleaning, wallpaper. Island references. Bill, 941-795-5100. www.vangopainting.net.
TILE -TILE -TILE. All variations of ceramic tile supplied and installed. Quality workmanship, prompt, reliable, many Island references. Call Neil, 941-726-3077.
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.
BUSINESS-TO-BUSINESS JD’s Window Cleaning looking for storefront jobs in Holmes Beach. I make dirty windows sparkling clean. 941-9203840.
BLINDS, SHUTTERS, SHADES: Motorization. 30 years on AMI. Call Keith Barnett, Barnett Blinds, 941-730-0516.
BEACH SERVICE air conditioning, heat, refrigeration. Commercial and residential service, repair and/or replacement. Serving Manatee County and the Island since 1987. For dependable, honest and personalized service, call Bill Eller, 941-7957411. CAC184228. ANYONE CAN TAKE a picture. A professional creates a portrait. I want to be at your wedding! www. jackelka.com. 941-778-2711.
LAWN & GARDEN CONNIE’S LANDSCAPING INC. Residential and commercial. Full-service lawn maintenance, landscaping, cleanups, hauling and more! Insured. 941-778-5294.
LARRY’S BACK! SHELL delivered and spread. $55/yard. Hauling all kinds of gravel, mulch, topsoil with free estimates. Call Larry at 941-795-7775, “shell phone” 941-7200770. LOOKING FOR AN EARLY BIRD? You can read Wednesday’s classifieds on Tuesday at www.islander.org. And it’s FREE!
ISLAND HANDYMAN: I live here, work here, value your referral. Refinish, paint. Just ask. JayPros. Licensed/insured. References. Call Jay, 941-9622874. HANDYMAN AND PAINTING. No job too small. Most jobs just right. Call Richard Kloss. 941-2041162.
R. A. GONZALEZ CONSTRUCTION: Re-roof and leak specialist. Residential/hotels/commercial. Repairs, shingles, tile, metal, flat. Quick response. Quality work at reasonable rates. References. Insured/licensed. #CCC1330056. Call Bryan at 727-2779502. RENTALS FIRST FLOOR, SPACIOUS 3BR/2BA. Classy, 2020 total renovation. Beautiful, quiet Westbay Point & Moorings. Monthly, FloridaRentalbyOwners.com. #1590. Also, #1106, 2BR/2BA, gorgeous bay views. Monthly. Kayaks and bikes included. Call Sue, 207-944-6097.
CLASSIFIED AD ORDER
g ____________ ___________ ___________ ___________ ___________ ___________ .or___________ r e d n a l w.is___________ w ____________ ___________ ___________ ___________ a___________ ___________ w t e n i l n o ds___________ ___________ ___________ ___________ ____________ ___________ ___________ a d e fi i lass___________ ___________ ___________ ___________ ___________ c e c ____________ ___________ a l P 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) _________
_________
_________
CHRISTIE’S PLUMBING Family Owned and Operated since 1975
Residential -iÀÛ Vi
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PIANO LESSONS AT your home, mine, or online. Music will flourish! Scholarships available. Call/ text: 941-518-9973.
HOME IMPROVEMENT
Island Limousine and Airport Transportation
Prompt, Courteous Service U New Vehicles 941.779.0043
,IVERY )NSUREDs !IRPORT 0ERMITTED
HURRICANE
Windows & Doors 941-730-5045 WEATHERSIDE LLC
LIC#CBC1253145
PREMIUM CLEANING SERVICES for premium clientele. 941-216-8238. A clean space is a healthy space!
SEARAY SPRINKLER SERVICES. Repairs, additions, drip, sprinkler head/timer adjustments. Office, 941-518-6326. Cell, 720-299-1661.
Bed: A bargain!
King, Queen, Full & Twin, pre-owned from $30 new/used. 941-922-5271 www.sleepking.net
AMI TAXI
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
$YDLODEOH $We AMI CENTRE, 3218 E. BAY DRIVE, HOLMES BEACH 941 778-7978 • WWW.ISLANDER.ORG
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 Aug. 19, 2020 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................
Place classified ads online at www.islander.org
Stay home if you can and communicate with us online at #AMItogether and www.islander.org.
EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY
MIKE NORMAN REALTY
All real estate advertising herein is subject to the fair Housing Act, which makes it illegal to advertise any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status or national origin, or intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination familial status includes children under age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians, pregnant women and people securing custody of children under 18. this newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. to complain of discrimination, call HuD toll-free at 1-800-669-9777 or for the hearing impaired, call 0-800-543-8294.
2501 Gulf Drive, Ste 102, Bradenton Beach
EST. 1978
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.
For professional real estate sales, call a true island native, born and raised on Anna Maria Island. Marianne Norman-Ellis. 941.778.6696
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
Mike Norman Realty
You can read it all online at www.islander.org
Chantelle Lewin
Broker Associate Licensed since 1983
941.713.1449 MIRABELLA VILLA 2BR/2BA plus den, private, gated community. MLS4465412 $358,880.
WWW.CHANTELLELEWIN.COM
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RIVERSIDE POINT ���� ��th Court E Tyler Hardy ������������ A������� ��������
NEW CONSTRUCTION
MSC MORTGAGE | MSC TITLE | MS&C COMMERCIAL NEW HOMES & CONDOMINIUMS
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RELEASE DATE: 8/16/2020
New York Times Sunday Magazine Crossword
Aug. 19, 2020 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 27 No. 0809 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................
PUZZLIN’
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BY DAVID LEVINSON WILK / EDITED BY WILL SHORTZ David Levinson Wilk, of Brooklyn, works for television game shows. For the past year he was the head writer of ABC’s ‘‘The $100,000 Pyramid’’ and Bravo’s ‘‘Cash Cab.’’ For nine years he was a staff writer for ‘‘Who Wants to Be a Millionaire.’’ He creates original puzzles for The San Diego Reader and other weekly newspapers across the country. David sold his first crossword to The Times in 1996, when he was a sophomore in college, and he has been making puzzles ever since. — W.S.
48 Longtime Yankees first baseman Mark 1 What can fall off a shelf 50 Simile’s center 8 Host of MSNBC’s ‘‘PoliticsNation’’ 51 Row beginning in 2011 52 God who becomes a 16 Be profane goddess when an ‘‘r’’ is removed 20 Something never seen at night 53 Spam sender 21 Beckoning words 54 James of ‘‘The Godfather’’ 22 For ____ amount of 58 Danger when walkin’ time in a silo? 23 Nobody but the guy 61 One who delivers gettin’ married on his feet? 62 Mansfield of old Hollywood 25 Put up with 63 ‘‘Er, uh, that is ‌’’ 26 Captures 64 Dada pioneer 27 House vote 28 Gettysburg general 65 ____ Paulo George 66 Rock singers? 29 Like screwball 67 Hedge fund titan comedies nicknamed ‘‘The Palindrome’’ 33 Pig food 34 Gish ____, novelist of 68 ‘‘Sorry, am ____ your way?’’ ‘‘The Resisters’’ and ‘‘Typical American’’ 69 Drivin’ around the lot with pop-pop? 35 Sickly-looking 71 Overhead expenses? 36 Olympic equipment weighing less than 72 Private Twitter 770 grams each transmissions, for short 38 Winter item you’ll be 73 ‘‘Absofruitalicious’’ wearin’ for years? cereal, in ads 42 Statistic tracked at 74 Sponge alternative census .gov/popclock 75 Slangy possessive 44 ‘‘Mixed Marriage’’ 76 What a pro bono playwright St. John lawyer provides Greer ____ 78 Very observant 45 Reduced in rank person 46 Receiver of an all80 Shoulder blade points bulletin 84 Pickup truck capacity, maybe Online subscriptions: Today’s 86 Detects puzzle and more Answers: 87 Sayin’ ‘‘Look, here’s than 4,000 past puzzles, page 24 nytimes.com/crosswords the thing about dry ($39.95 a year). land ‌’’? AC RO SS
90 To-dos 91 Batting ninth 92 The Children’s Defense Fund, e.g., in brief 93 Medical breakthrough 95 ‘‘Ish’’ 96 Boiling mad 97 West Bank grp. 98 Realize 101 Kind 102 What was causin’ the doctor to check for joint pain? 108 Very consequential 109 The North Pole visĂ -vis the South Pole, e.g. 110 Go as low as 111 French/Belgian river 112 Apollo and others 113 ‘‘Understood’’ DOWN
1 Online exchange, in brief 2 Animal feared by an ailurophobe 3 ‘‘What’s your ____?’’ (question to a guest en route) 4 Recycling container 5 Michael who wrote ‘‘The Neverending Story’’ 6 Restricts, with ‘‘in’’ 7 Washing machine setting 8 Windshield clearer 9 Certain earring 10 Singer Tori 11 ‘‘What’s the Frequency, Kenneth?’’ band 12 Call of the wild?
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13 One trading dollars for quarters 14 Paris suburb 15 French marshal in the Napoleonic Wars 16 Camila with the 2018 No. 1 hit ‘‘Havana’’ 17 Employ with regularity 18 Bird also known as a little auk 19 Scattered (about) 24 Blue Muppet with a pink nose 28 Obsidian, once 29 Aquarium creature with black-and-white stripes 30 Capital in the South Pacific 31 Teasing words when someone starts listing the digits of pi, say 32 Mythical creature seen on old Bhutanese stamps 34 Rock’s Joplin 35 Hägar the Horrible’s dog 37 Sure winners 39 Cross-country camping expedition, maybe 40 Treat as a bed 41 Hit the nail on the head, e.g. 43 Meager 47 Pope Francis’ homeland: Abbr. 49 Modern library borrowing 52 Bring in 54 Longtime media columnist David 55 Mate’s reply
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56 Basketball Hall-ofFamer who was the first woman to sign an N.B.A. contract 57 Single-serving coffee brand 59 Landlocked Asian country 60 ____ Gorbachev, former first lady of the Soviet Union 61 His tombstone reads ‘‘Workers of all lands unite’’ 62 Moves like Jell-O
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65 Told 66 Hiccups 68 Coming-out announcement 69 Buttinsky 70 Certain nest egg, for short 72 Blue-and-white earthenware pottery 73 Dramatic ballroom dance 76 Two-time Best Actress winner Rainer 77 Eva of ‘‘Desperate Housewives’’
78 Ho-hum feelings 79 Opposite of exo80 Soft and wet 81 ____ oxide (red compound) 82 Egg-carton spec 83 Special dinner order 85 Boo-boos 88 Home past curfew 89 Like the Met Gala 94 Online notice for a party 97 Phnom ____, Cambodia
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98 ‘‘____ to tyrants, and my country’s friend’’ (words of Cato in ‘‘Julius Caesar’’) 99 Naval officer: Abbr. 100 Grandson of Eve 102 Budgetary excess 103 Make a decision 104 ‘‘There but for the grace of God ____’’ 105 Intel missions 106 Western native 107 About one inch of a foot
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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Home & Condominium Sales Investment Properties Vacation Rentals Full Service Property Management
Panoramic Views! Waterfront retreat at the north end of Anna Maria! Beach home, 3BD/3.5BA, open kitchen, bonus room and a deck you will never want to leave! $1,950,000
Top-Performing Rental! Located directly on the Gulf, this home boasts 10BR/8.5BA and has it all! Enjoy endless sunsets from one of the many balconies. $6,590,000
Resort-Style Living! 2BD/2BA updated condo with a great view, waterfront community, close to Anna Maria Island! $249,000
Build Your Dream Home! Buildable lot west of Gulf Drive in the 100 block in Anna Maria. Just steps to the beach! $799,000
Shows Like A Model! Shows like a model! 3BD/2BA home in gated Copperstone community. Open floor plan/split bedrooms, 2-car garage, screened-in lanai, large yard. $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! $365,000
Perfect Location! Premium lot in Mirabella community! This 2BD/2BA + office is move-in ready! High ceilings, granite counters, screened porch and water view! $329,900
Stunning Lake View! Open the double leaded-glass door to this 2BD/2BA turnkey split ranch with beautiful lake views! Updates include windows, roof, kitchen, landscaping. $309,900
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Page 28 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Aug. 19, 2020 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................