The Islander Newspaper E-Edition: Wednesday, Sept. 22, 2021

VOLUME

SEPT. 22, 2021 FREE

NO. 48

the Best news on anna maria island Since 1992

Hb, beachfront resort in limbo

Astheworldterns. 6

Q&A 092221

3

traffic committee to focus on resiliency. 4

By ryan paice islander reporter

micromobility issues topic for itpo. 4

Meetings. 4 island officials concentrate on golf cart woes. 5

Opinions. 6 10-20 YeARS AGo

Looking back. 7

budget talks

Budgeting 2021-22. 8-9

Save a date. 10-11

Happenings announcements. 11 island players return to the stage. 12

From the gallery to the classroom

carolann garafola of the artists’ guild of anna maria island delivers art supplies to fifth-graders at Blanche H. daughtrey preparatory School of arts and Sciences. agami supports arts in the schools with donations and scholarships. guild members donated over the summer to support the school. for more information, call or visit the gallery at 941-778-6694, 5414 marina drive, Holmes Beach. islander courtesy photo

ISLAND PLAYERS

ame for peace day. 12 Win big $$. play islander football. 13 unicyling for charity. 14 anna maria gains preservation grant. 14

Good deeds. 15 Gathering. 16 Cops & Courts. 17 NESTING NOTES.

Season winds down. 18

Hugs for homecoming Students at the School for constructive play embrace returning teacher Barb Burgess in hugs and laughter Sept. 15 after she moved from Wisconsin back to anna maria island to resume teaching at the preschool. the school is based at gloria dei Lutheran church, 6608 marina drive, Holmes Beach. islander photo: courtesy Sfcp/pam Bertrand

about those oaks. 18 playoffs and playtime. 20 Look up for mackerel hookups. 21

ISl bIZ Happy returns. 22 delta’s damage to latesummer tourism. 23

CLASSIFIEDS. 24

PropertyWatch. 26

NYT puzzle. 27

islander.org

The limbo started on an island in the West Indies as a folk dance and grew in popularity in the Caribbean.

But it might take some time for the city of Holmes Beach and the Bali Hai Beach Resort to get in sync.

City commissioners unanimously voted Sept. 15 to continue until the commission’s first October meeting a site plan review for the Bali Hai, where a bar/lounge area at the resort has evolved into a standoff between the resort and the city that has lasted more than a year. It has led to an ongoing circuit court case.

Bali Hai, 6900 Gulf Drive, opened in 1971 and was purchased by developer Shawn Kaleta in 2019 for about $20 million. He embarked on extensive renovations, including the addition of a spa and a bar serving alcoholic beverages.

City code enforcement officers issued a stop work order related to the ongoing construction at the property last January.

The city then filed a legal complaint in May 2020 centered around the resort’s bar and lounge, arguing that the resort never submitted a site plan for the change of use and had performed work at the property that required permits.

Meanwhile, the resort continues to operate its bar/lounge — despite accruing $1,000 daily fines since June.

Bradenton-based attorney Louis Najmy, representing Bali Hai at the Sept. 15 hearing, argued that the code allowed the resort to open the accessory uses without prior city approval.

He added that the resort had submitted a site plan to the city so that the two parties could come to a resolution on the matter.

“We’ve got an olive branch out and we want to start anew,” Najmy said.

City staff presented the site plan with several suggested stipulations — including limitations on use of the bar/lounge and a turn to REsoRt, page 2

State ethics commission rules in favor of Hb commissioner By ryan paice islander reporter

An ethics complaint against a local city commissioner has fizzled — lacking cause.

The Florida Commission on Ethics reviewed 37 matters in a closed session Sept.

10, including a complaint against Holmes Beach Commissioner Kim Rash for allegedly abusing his office “by asserting he did not have to comply with laws or regulations because various city department employees

‘work for him,’” according to a news release distributed after the meeting.

The complaint, which was kept confidential based on rules of the ethics commission, likely relates to the complaints lodged in May with Holmes Beach police that culminated in Rash’s neighbor selling and moving from the city.

Anastasios Tricas, the former owner of 7214 Holmes Blvd., a deeded half duplex, filed a noise complaint with the Holmes

Beach Police Department May 1 against Rash, the owner of the other half of the duplex at 7216 Holmes Blvd., for leaving music playing in his unit for three rash days while absent, before Tricas made his ethics complaint. A shared wall separates the two villas. turn to Ethics, page 3

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page 2 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Sept. 22, 2021 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

2021 city elections

people were relaxing poolside Sept. 16 near the bar and lounge area at the Bali Hai Beach resort, 6900 gulf drive, Holmes Beach. islander photo: ryan paice

Registration open

Voter registration ahead of Nov. 2 municipal elections closes Monday, Oct. 4.

To register in Manatee County, a person must be at least 18, a U.S. citizen, a Florida resident, as well as possess a valid state ID. To register online go to votemanatee.com.

And for more information about registration, either visit the SOE website or call 941-741-3823.

Request mail-in ballots Registered voters who want to request mail ballot service can go online to the Manatee County Supervisor of Election’s office at votemanatee.com.

Vote by mail ballots cannot be forwarded, with an exception for military service members.

— Lisa neff

Bali Hai advertised in the islander under new ownership in march 2018.

REsoRt continued from page 1

requirement to apply for special event permits — but commissioners also made it clear that the submitted plan had little chance of gaining their approval.

Over the almost 2-hour discussion, every commissioner expressed doubt in the resort’s practices, cast-

ing claims that it works in “bad faith” by continuing its bar/lounge operations despite the city’s attempts to seek compliance through warnings and fines.

“They continue with their business as if they don’t have any fines at all,” Commissioner Jayne Christenson said. “They’re operating and snubbing their nose at us….”

“I won’t vote for anything.”

Commissioner Terry Schaefer said the resort’s record of noncompliance prevented him from believing Najmy’s pleas for cooperation.

“The record of accumulated violations is the longest I’ve ever seen in my tenure,” Schaefer said. “I think you operate in bad faith, quite frankly. … I think you’re a classic example of the problem we have in this community with people who believe they can come to us, operate as they see fit, then ask for forgiveness.”

Schaefer noted that the commission recently had to deny a special event permit for a wedding at the venue due to the resort’s noncompliance. He added that the resort’s representatives previously told commission-

ers the business wouldn’t be advertised as a venue for special events but, in fact, it was.

During public comment, two residents spoke in opposition to the resort’s bar/lounge area, saying the operation would worsen the resort’s impact on its neighbors by attracting people to the resort and increasing the probability of intrusive noise levels.

Najmy sympathized with people’s concerns but emphasized his party’s desire to move forward.

“There is no bad faith and no bad feelings towards the city,” Najmy said. “We want to end up putting all this stuff behind us.”

“I know it sounds funny — ‘Oh, well you’re still violating our rules’ — but remember, the whole point (for our argument) — that we believe we don’t have to be under these conditions.”

Christenson said she would not consider approving the resort’s site plan until it complied with city code and ceased serving people at the bar.

She added that she would like the resort to submit pLeaSe, See REsoRt, neXt page

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Sept. 22, 2021 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 3 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

A duplex at 7214 and 7216 Holmes Blvd., Holmes Beach. Resident Anastasios Tricas filed a noise complaint in May with the Holmes Beach Police Department against his neighbor, Commissioner Kim Rash, for leaving loud music playing for three consecutive days. Islander File Photo: Ryan Paice Ethics continued from page 1

Police responded to Tricas’ unit and determined the noise was a violation of city code and served Rash with a warning, which resulted in compliance from Rash.

In a statement to police, Tricas said the issue was larger than the noise violation and that his family had decided to sell their unit and move due to harassment

by Rash.

Tricas alleged in his statement that Rash looked Resort continued from page 2

a new site plan returning the property to its previous layout, with the laundry room where the bar/lounge area is now.

In lieu of a resolution, which was not forthcoming, Schaefer recommended the commission bring the site plan back at a later date so they could consider stipulations explored during the lengthy discussion, such as buffering and additional parking.

The commission planned to revisit the Bali Hai agenda item at 5 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 12, at city hall, 5801 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach.

Q&A 092221

The Islander Poll Last week’s question

Island elections are Nov. 2. Are you registered to vote?

33%. Yes, on AMI. 47%. Yes, not on AMI. 0%. No, but plan to be.

3%. No, no interest.

17%. No, not eligible.

This week’s question

Should manatees again be declared endangered under federal law?

A. Absolutely.

B. No. C. Maybe. into the windows of his home without consent, made D. Doesn’t matter. his family members uncomfortable with inappropriate To take the poll, go online to islander.org. comments and used his position as city commissioner to protect himself.

“We were frightened about the idea of calling the police because Kim Rash has made it clear that he is a city councilman and the police work for him,” Tricas wrote. “He has told me on more than one occasion that all he has to do is call his ‘buddys’ (sic) at the police department and they will respond and do his bidding.”

Tricas sold his homesteaded unit June 10 for $867,500 to a couple with a North Carolina address.

The ethics commission’s news release did not provide the complaint, an explanation or investigation materials.

Rash wrote in a Sept. 17 email to The Islander that he was “totally innocent” and believed the allegations Snooty the Manatee drew crowds to the South were designed on Tricas’ part “to slander my reputa- Florida Museum — now the Bishop — in Bradenton tion.” until his death in 2017. Snooty was one of the first “It is unfortunate that Florida taxpayer resources of recorded captive manatee births and, at age 69, time and money were used in this frivolous charade,” was the oldest manatee in captivity — possibly the Rash wrote. oldest manatee in the world. Islander File Photo

page 4 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Sept. 22, 2021 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Traffic committee ramps up to include infrastructure resiliency

By Kane Kaiman islander reporter

It’s not just about BITS and pieces anymore.

At a Sept. 13 meeting, members of the Sarasota/ Manatee Metropolitan Organization’s Barrier Island Traffic Committee unanimously voted to add MPOwide infrastructure resiliency to the group’s purview.

In addition to barrier island needs, the group will assess the resiliency — the ability to withstand disruptions and disasters — of roads, bridges and other infrastructure throughout the MPO’s dominion.

The expanded focus comes with a name change — the group will be known as the Transportation Resiliency Advisory Group.

Group membership will expand to include representatives from all Sarasota/Manatee MPO jurisdictions, including North Port, Palmetto and Venice.

BITS was established as an eight-member body that advised the MPO on matters related to the implementation of the barrier island traffic study, a multiyear assessment and prioritization of projects intended to reduce traffic congestion on the islands.

The study, which included infrastructure resiliency assessments, laid the foundation for an MPO-wide resiliency initiative, MPO fiscal manager Ryan Brown told The Islander Sept. 15. The initiative — the long range transportation plan resiliency and vulnerability assessment study — is the Transportation Resiliency Advisory Group’s first undertaking.

At the Sept. 13 meeting, MPO multimodal planner Slade Downs outlined the study, which will begin with an inventory of transportation assets.

After the assets’ resiliencies are evaluated, the MPO will prioritize a list of public works projects and

gulf drive and cortez road carry traffic to and from the mainland July 14, intersecting in Bradenton Beach and serving as two major anna maria island traffic arteries. islander photo: Jack elka

create an online tool for the public to track the location and timing of the undertakings.

The study is expected to take about two years.

Brown said Sept. 15 without the information gleaned from the barrier islands traffic study, the new assessment’s $250,000 price tag would have been

higher.

The next TRAG meeting will be at 8 a.m. Feb. 14, 2022, at the MPO offices, 8100 15th St. E., Sarasota.

The MPO will meet at 9:30 a.m. Monday, Sept.

27, at the Bradenton Area Convention Center, 1 Haben Blvd., Palmetto.

ITPO determines TAC representation, discusses micromobility cooperation

By Kane Kaiman islander reporter

The island mayors are discussing new TAC-tics and micromanagement.

At a Sept. 13 meeting at Holmes Beach City Hall, the Island Transportation Planning Organization — comprising the mayors of Holmes Beach, Bradenton Beach and Anna Maria — adopted a new method for determining the island’s representative on the Sarasota/Manatee Metropolitan Planning Organization’s Technical Advisory Committee and discussed ways in which Island governments will collaborate on ordinances regulating the availability of micromobility short-distance transportation devices and low-speed vehicles.

The ITPO — an advisory body chaired by Holmes Beach Mayor Judy Titsworth, Anna Maria Island’s rotating representative on the MPO — unanimously adopted motions to allow the organization’s chair to appoint the island’s TAC representative and to have

Meetings

Anna Maria City Sept. 22, 2 p.m., Pine Avenue hearing.

Sept. 23, 5:30 p.m., budget.

Sept. 23, 6 p.m., commission.

Oct. 14, 2 p.m., commission.

Oct. 18, 2:30 p.m., planning.

Oct. 26, 10 a.m., historic preservation.

Oct. 28, 6 p.m., commission.

Anna Maria City Hall, 10005 Gulf Drive, 941708-6130, cityofannamaria.com.

Bradenton Beach Oct. 6, 9 a.m., CIP. Oct. 6, 9:30 a.m., CRA. Oct. 21, noon, commission.

Bradenton Beach City Hall, 107 Gulf Drive N., 941-778-1005, cityofbradentonbeach.com.

Holmes Beach Sept. 28, 5 p.m., commission.

Oct. 6, 10 a.m., parks and beautification.

Oct. 6, 5 p.m., planning.

Oct. 12, 5 p.m., commission.

Oct. 20, 10 a.m., code.

the upcoming chair serve as vice chair.

Titsworth appointed Holmes Beach traffic engineer Sage Kamiya to the role of TAC representative and Anna Maria Mayor Dan Murphy, next in line to chair the ITPO, the organization’s vice chair.

As a representative on the TAC, Kamiya will evaluate MPO transportation plans and programs while advocating for island interests.

During the member comments portion of the meeting, Bradenton Beach Mayor John Chappie and Titsworth pledged to share information about how their municipalities are handling their micromobility and low-speed vehicle issues, and Chappie expressed a desire to create islandwide uniformity for the rules governing the usage of the vehicles.

“Micromobility” devices are motorized vehicles that travel short distances and not more than 20 mph.

E-scooters, often rented through an online application, are a prominent example.

Low-speed vehicles — often confused with slower Oct. 26, 5 p.m., commission.

Holmes Beach City Hall, 5801 Marina Drive, 941-708-5800, holmesbeachfl.org.

West Manatee Fire Rescue None announced.

WMFR administration building, 701 63rd St. W., Bradenton, 941-761-1555, wmfr.org.

Manatee County Sept. 28, 9 a.m., commission. CANCELED County administration building, 1112 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton, 941-748-4501, mymanatee. org.

Also of interest Sept. 27, 9:30 a.m., Sarasota/Manatee Metropolitan Planning Organization, Bradenton Area Convention Center, 1 Haben Blvd., Palmetto.

Oct. 18, 9 a.m., Manatee County Tourist Development Council, county administration building.

Oct. 25, 2 p.m., Island Transportation Planning Organization, Holmes Beach City Hall.

Nov. 2, Election Day. — Lisa neff

Please, send meeting notices to calendar@ islander.org and news@islander.org.

golf carts — apply to motorized passenger vehicles able to travel at speeds in excess of 25 mph.

The low-speed vehicles have created public safety and traffic congestion problems on the island for years, Chappie said.

Titsworth spoke about Holmes Beach’s issues with golf carts, which move more slowly and cause traffic backups while falling short on driver/passenger protection in crashes.

“So far, we haven’t had a death, which is surprising. You see these great, big trucks in traffic right next to a golf cart that has little kids facing them. It’s scary,” she said.

All three cities have some form of moratorium on the sale and rental of micromobility and low-speed vehicles.

Bradenton Beach extended its moratorium Sept.

16.

Businesses that sold or rented the vehicles before the moratoriums went into effect are exempt.

RoadWatch Eyes on the road

The Florida Department of Transportation posted the following notice: • SR 684 Cortez Road at 119th Street: Crews are installing landscaping near the intersection. Lane closures may be required. Estimated completion is in October.

• State Road 789/Gulf Drive at intersection with Avenue C south to Ninth Street North in Bradenton Beach: Crews are replacing the east sidewalk with permeable pavers. Expect lane closures and flagging operations, as well as construction noise. The contractor is AF USA Construction Corp. The project is expected to be completed late this year.

— Lisa neff

Milestones

The Islander welcomes stories about islanders and island life, including photos and notices of the milestones in readers’ lives — weddings, births, anniversaries, travels, obituaries and other events.

Submit your news — to news@islander.org.

Sept. 22, 2021 THE ISLANDER | islander.org page 5 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Island elected officials collaborate on LSV woes, solutions By amy V.t. moriarty islander reporter

The use of golf carts on Anna Maria Island streets is not new.

But complaints to officials in all three island cities about vacationers’ irregular use of low-speed vehicles have been on the rise in recent months.

So, Holmes Beach Commissioner Jayne Christenson used the opportunity of a Sept. 15 quarterly meeting of barrier island elected officials to present some of her research and brainstorm solutions.

A golf cart, as defined by Florida statute, is a motor vehicle designed and manufactured for operation on a golf course for sporting or recreational purposes and not capable of exceeding speeds of 20 mph.

The statutes allow the vehicles to be operated on roadways with speed limits of 30 mph or less that have been designated for golf carts. Golf carts are not titled or registered and are not required to be insured.

However, golf carts must be converted to be streetlegal, according to Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles requirements. Once converted, the modified golf cart falls into the category of a low-speed vehicle and must have a state-assigned vehicle identification number, as well as registration and tag, to be operated on roadways with speed limits of 35 mph or less.

And, because they are street-legal vehicles, lowspeed vehicles must have seat belts for all passengers and children who require a child safety seat in a traditional motor vehicle must use them in the LSV. Additionally, operators of LSVs must be licensed to drive in the United States and the number of passengers cannot exceed the number of seats and seat belts — just like in a traditional motor vehicle.

“All of the rental golf carts are low-speed vehicles,” Holmes Beach Police Chief Bill Tokajer said during the meeting of the Coalition of Barrier Island Elected Officials at Anna Maria City Hall.

The chief said a golf cart without a tag, or license plate, in Holmes Beach is usually operated by a resident who abides the rules, including the city ordinance stating such vehicles can be operated only in city limits on roadways with speed limits of 25 mph or less and may not be driven to either Anna Maria or Bradenton Beach, as those cities prohibit the use of golf carts.

Collecting complaints The complaints elected officials have fielded in recent months deal with the operation of the LSVs — operators who fail to adhere to the law — including: • Operators who appear to be younger than the legal licensing age of 16; • Operators driving slower than posted speed limits, backing up traffic; • Operators driving in bike lanes or on sidewalks; • Operators on roadways where it is illegal to drive a low-speed vehicle;

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• Overcrowded vehicles, with people sitting on each other’s laps and young children held on laps rather than in child seats.

In August, Manatee County sheriff’s deputies, who provide law enforcement in Anna Maria, issued 15 citations, 28 verbal warnings and nine written warnings to LSV operators for improper or lack of child restraint, MCSO Sgt. Brett Getman told The Islander Sept. 15.

Christenson said rental agencies that provide people with misleading and incorrect information contribute to the problem on the island.

She spoke of an unnamed business that posted incorrect information on its website to a FAQ page. To one posted question, “Can I drive a cart over the Manatee Ave. bridge?” the agency replied, “Yes, but only the part where the speed limit is 35 mph or less.”

Christenson said the agency answer to a similar question about the Cortez Bridge also was “yes,” but the reply is incorrect. It is not legal to operate a golf cart on either the Cortez or Anna Maria Island bridges, she said.

Anna Maria resident Ruth Cawein, addressing the officials at the meeting, said another concern is road rage.

Cawein said she was run off the road by another driver impatient with the slow speed of traffic traveling behind a low-speed vehicle.

Anna Maria resident Tripp Sebring, also at the meeting, said he too has witnessed road rage incidents involving LSVs.

That’s happening in Anna Maria, where Mayor Dan Murphy met in August with owners of three rental agencies to brainstorm solutions and came up with an idea to require a decal to be affixed to the rental vehicles with the main rules that apply to the use of the LSVs. The 300 decals have the symbols for the MCSO, which provides law enforcement services in Anna Maria, and Anna Maria code and parking enforcement.

They state: • Only licensed drivers may operate this vehicle; • All passengers must wear seat belts; • Children 5 and under in a child restraint device; • Do not exceed seating capacity of this vehicle.

“Mayor what you guys have developed here is excellent,” Bradenton Beach Mayor John Chappie said.

“I also love your sticker … and we’ll probably copy it for Holmes Beach,” Holmes Beach Mayor Judy Titsworth added.

Anna Maria Commissioner Carol Carter suggested an additional tactic for the cities — monitoring social media for inaccurate information and responding with facts and advice.

By the end of the session, the island officials hadn’t found a silver bullet solution but had agreed the matter requires an islandwide effort to educate operators.

About the coalition The BIEO coalition does not vote or set policy What can be done? but instead serves as a forum for elected officials from Bringing rental business owners into the mix and Anna Maria, Bradenton Beach, Holmes Beach and seeking input when working out solutions should make Longboat Key to discuss issues and share ideas. it easier to get cooperation and compliance, Holmes The next meeting was not set as The Islander went Beach Commissioner Carol Soustek said. to press Sept. 20. threewheeled “Scootcoupes,” a modified scooter for two passengers, as well as scooters and LSVs wait Sept. 16 for customers in the parking lot of robinhood rentals in anna maria. islander photo: Kane Kaiman

page 6 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Sept. 22, 2021 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Opinion

Our

Excuse me, is that a golf cart?

Well, obviously, you’re not going to drive your Hummer on the golf course. But a golf cart is entirely appropriate for making the rounds on a traditional 18-hole course, as well as the 32-par, nine-hole private course at the Key Royale Club.

In fact, golf carts were first allowed on Holmes Beach streets to appease a few KRC members who insisted they should be allowed to drive their personal golf carts to the clubhouse from their homes.

A golf cart — by definition — is not capable of exceeding speeds of 20 mph.

The state allows golf carts on roadways with speed limits of 30 mph or less but only if the city has designated the streets or roadways for golf carts.

Golf carts have no title, registration or tag and are not eligible for accident insurance.

Then there’s the newer, speedier low-speed vehicle. It comes disguised as a golf cart.

But low-speed vehicles must have a VIN, registration and tag to be operated on roadways with speed limits up to and including 35 mph.

LSVs can be distinguished by a few rudimentary features: Seat belts, windshield wipers, a horn (if they honk at you) and head- and taillights.

Of course, you can’t tell by looking at the driver, but they must be licensed.

Now, please, please, please, people: If the driver is not on a golf course or operating Grandpa’s golf cart, refer to the vehicles poking along the road in front of you with lights and wipers — maybe with more passengers than seats (and seat belts) and people in rear-facing seats with their legs dangling and kids on their lap — as an LSV. The island rental companies do not offer golf carts — only LSVs are in their inventory.

And for Holmes Beach at least, the chief of police estimates the vehicles we see on local roads are about 90% LSVs. And, yes, they are slower than the average Land Rover, Rubicon or Corolla. And they travel way slower than the petal-to-the-metal all the way to Publix driver.

And they go really slow after a few cocktails.

So if it reminds you of the old days, when you went out for a Sunday drive to compare how high the neighbor’s corn stalks had grown, and farmers on tractors slowing your pace, you’re right.

The sloooooow speeds on AMI are partly because the LSV goes about 5 mph slower for every passenger they load up. And people tend to load them up!

Let’s rev up those golf carts! Er, LSVs. We’ve gotta get our move on.

— Bonner Joy, news@islander.org

SEPT. 22, 2021 • Vol. 29, No. 48 Publisher, Co-editor Bonner Joy, news@islander.org ▼ Editorial editor Lisa neff, lisa@islander.org Joe Bird, editorial cartoonist Kevin cassidy, kevin@islander.org Jack elka, jack@jackelka.com Kane Kaiman, kane@islander.org amy V.t. moriarty, amym@islander.org ryan paice, ryan@islander.org ▼ Contributors Karen riley-Love Samara paice capt. danny Stasny, fish@islander.org ▼ Advertising Director toni Lyon, toni@islander.org ▼ Webmaster Wayne ansell ▼ Office Manager, Lisa Williams info@, accounting@, classifieds@, subscriptions@islander.org ▼ Distribution urbane Bouchet ross roberts Judy Loden Wasco (All others: news@islander.org) ▼

Single copies free. Quantities of five or more: 25 cents each. ©1992-2021 • Editorial, sales and production offices: 315 58th St., Suite J, Holmes Beach fL 34217 WeBSite: islander.org text or call: 941-778-7978

Your

Opinion

BB’s double-cross

a member with health problems to participate and vote in board meetings through the use of such devices as a speaker telephone.

The mayor was aware that medical reasons allowed a commissioner to phone in and vote provided there was a quorum. That day a county commissioner teleconferenced and voted at a county meeting. In addition, several city commissioners and staff have been afforded teleconference participation.

Commissioner Kim Rash was connected when a vote was taken by the four representing the in-person quorum. Commissioner Jayne Christenson was in favor of allowing Rash to vote. Commissioners Jim Kihm, Terry Schaefer and Carol Soustek were not.

One is left to wonder if there were Sunshine issues and constitutional issues.

Margie Motzer, Holmes Beach

I concur with the editorial (The Islander, Sept. 8) excoriating the Bradenton Beach commissioners for double-cross dealmaking with the Florida Department of Transportation on the Cortez Bridge.

The DOT’s proposal for a 65-foot fixed span connection is not so much about building a bridge but, rather, building a “high way.”

The “high way” will be disastrous for the neighborhoods and mar the fishing village.

And for what?

It will not measurably reduce congestion within a highly constrained road system.

But it will maximize its footprint in Cortez and deliver over-the-top visual impact by its height, mass and support walls. There was no consideration given to design and artistic treatment within the bridge’s historic context — a missed opportunity.

The island cities should be vigorously protesting Waiting for island time the big deal that DOT is about to drop.

Oh, when we have to wait behind cars turning left Larry Grossman, Bradenton across oncoming traffic…

Oh, when we have to wait for visitors and their Voting remotely families and inflatables to cross to the beaches…

Oh when we have to wait behind the island trolley Some believe Zooming and teleconferencing should be permanently integrated into the way local as it safely loads parents and children…

It so slows down my golf cart ride! governments conduct business.

But then I just look up into the blue skies at the Because of the island’s transient constituency, perhaps governments should be looking for ways to utilize puffy white clouds and thank the powers that be that I am in a beautiful place. technology and streamline the process.

Motorists might try doing the same when they Florida’s Sunshine Law cautions against “restricting public access” and, yes, there are emails, but they have to slow down for some reason.

We call it island time. are “passive participation” while teleconferencing proWill Flinn, Holmes Beach vides real-time opportunity to be heard.

At a recent Holmes Beach commission meeting, it became apparent that officials may have been unaware Have your say Submit letters to the editor to news@islander. of the following on page 38 of Florida’s Sunshine Manual: If a quorum of a local board is physically org. Letters must include name, address and a contact present at the public meeting site, a board may allow phone number.

Sept. 22, 2021 THE ISLANDER | islander.org page 7 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Passing through the pass the shrimper Little Joseph moves through the intracoastal Waterway at the Longboat pass Bridge during a summer rainstorm in July 1978.

10&20 years ago

In the Sept. 21, 2001, issue

• TS Gabrielle went ashore north of Venice and caused a power outage on Anna Maria Island.

The 70-mph winds and rain also caused flooding, downed trees and damaged roofs. Planks on the Anna Maria City Pier washed away and Anna Maria Mayor Gary Deffenbaugh said the pier and restaurant would be closed for about a week.

• Holmes Beach Commissioners Pat Geyer and Don Maloney along with Mayor Rich Bohnenberger were returned to office after no candidates filed to run for election in November.

• Islanders shared with the newspaper memories and thoughts after the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks.

Among the stories was that of a man fired from his job at the World Trade Center Sept. 10, 2001, and the chief electrician of the WTC who was on vacation and would have been trapped seven floors below ground level when the towers collapsed.

At the docks

In the Sept. 21, 2011, issue

the shrimp boat miss patty is docked near a fish-packing facility — presumed to be Bayshore Seafood, now cortez Bait & Seafood — on the cortez waterfront in march 1985. islander photos: courtesy manatee county public Library System

• Anna Maria public works officials discussed removing Australian pine trees from Gulf Park between Willow and Cedar avenues, prompting complaints from residents.

• Bradenton Beach commissioners rejected a proposal to trim Australian pine trees at Herb Dolan park, saying the trees posed no public safety issue.

• Holmes Beach police responded to a home to deal with a double-shooting — an attempted homicide and a suicide.

• Anna Maria Elementary School students and staff, along with the island Rotary Club, celebrated International Peace Day on the campus with a parade of nation flags, song and remarks.

— Lisa neff

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We bring you all the news about three city governments, community happenings, people features and special events … even real estate transactions … everything you need if your “heart is on Anna Maria Island.”

If you don’t live here year-round, use this form to subscribe by (snail) mail for yourself or someone else. (Sorry, we do not suspend mail subscriptions — you get The Islander free while you’re here!)

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Page 8 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Sept. 22, 2021 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

HB approves 1st reading, record-high $22.2M budget

By Ryan Paice Islander Reporter

The city of Holmes Beach’s budget is set to grow by $4,347,602 in fiscal 2021-22.

And it’s only one vote away from approval.

City commissioners held a public hearing and voted 4-1 Sept. 15 to approve on first reading the mayor’s proposed $22,226,872 budget for the upcoming fiscal year, which begins Oct. 1.

Titsworth Commissioner Kim Rash voted “no,” without providing explanation for his vote during the meeting.

At $17,879,270, the city’s budget for 2020-21 marked the largest-ever municipal budget on Anna Maria Island.

The $4.3 million projected growth for next year is a combination of circumstance and annual growth.

The largest contributor to the increase is $1,078,088 the city budgeted to receive from the federal govern-

budget talks

The city’s projected capital outlay expenses reflect the unprecedented windfall with a jump from $1,898,262 this year up to $4,594,979 in 2021-22.

Otherwise, the city’s projected spending is the result of several increases in costs across the board, ment through the U.S. American Rescue Plan Act in including a $619,872 increase in personnel expenses, the new fiscal year, as well as $750,000 in state appro- a $193,500 increase in the cost of road materials and priations for stormwater drainage improvements. a $196,000 increase to city center lighting expenses.

Mayor Judy Titsworth said the funds would pay for capital improvements, such as roadside stormwater Millage rate improvements.

The city’s rise in taxes for property owners is proThe city also will receive $216,000 from the West jected to raise $325,776 more from ad valorem tax revCoast Inland Navigation District for a new police boat. enue if commissioners adopt the staff-recommended Commissioners voted 4-1 to authorize Holmes Beach 2.25 millage rate.

Police Chief Bill Tokajer to execute the agreement Millage is the number of dollars taxed per $1,000 with WCIND. of property value. So, at 2.25 mills, a property owner Commissioner Kim Rash voted “no,” without would pay $1,125 in ad valorem taxes for a $500,000 citing a reason for his decision during the meeting. property.

Between the funding from ARPA, WCIND and Keeping the millage rate at 2.25 is a tax increase the state, the city is projected to receive $2,044,088 in for property owners who have seen a $152,409,605 new funding. increase in total values over last year.

At the 2.1178 rollback rate — the rate at which the city would collect the same amount of ad valorem revenue as the current year — the owner of a $500,000 property would pay $1,058.90 in ad valorem taxes.

Charter fishCommissioners voted 4-1 to approve a first reading guide, ing for an ordinance setting the 2.25 millage rate for Capt. Aaron the upcoming fiscal year.

Lowman, Rash again voted “no,” without explanation. with his There was no public comment on the proposed family. millage rate or the budget at the hearings.

A second public hearing and final reading for the totaling $70,844 over the first month of 2021-22.

With an additional $49,402 budgeted for “general/ proposed budget will be at 5 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 28, indirect/admin expenses,” the center’s total expenses at city hall, 5801 Marina Drive. outnumbered its revenues $121,490 to $106,071 in July 2021.

Meanwhile, the wait continues for the release of HB Y-to-Y budget the nonprofit’s 2021-22 spending plan.

2021-22 proposed budget 2020-21 budget The center’s fiscal year began July 1 but the non- Expenditures: $22,226,872 $17,879,270 profit had not released a budget as of Sept. 16.

Revenue: $11,547,888 $9,386,597 This is the third consecutive year the center began Reserves: $9,600,897 $8,492,673 Personnel: $6,063,570 $5,443,698 its fiscal year without releasing a spending plan.

Operating costs: $4,223,862 $3,614,490 The nonprofit also had not disclosed the amount Capital outlay: $4,594,979 $1,898,262 of funds raised at an Aug. 21 benefit for islandARPA funding: $1,078,088 raised, Anna Maria Island charter fishing guide Unassigned: $7,195,458 $6,773,819 Capt. Aaron Lowman, who suffered a brain aneurysm Property value: $2,351,329,436 $2,198,919,831 — Ryan Paice in June.

Community center starts fiscal year $14K in the red

By Ryan Paice Islander Reporter

The Center of Anna Maria Island’s 2021-22 fiscal year is off to a rocky start.

According to financial documents from the nonprofit, the center was $15,419 in the red in July, the first month of the new July-June fiscal year.

But that isn’t out of the ordinary for the nonprofit, which reversed a $92,508 deficit through March to finish 2020-21 $53,492 in the black, thanks to a late season community fundraising challenge.

The 2021-22 number marks a $21,436 improvement over the same period last fiscal year, when the center recorded a $36,855 deficit.

The difference-maker is a 325% increase in program revenue — the fees paid for participation by members and nonmembers in a variety of activities — from $17,669 in July 2020 to $75,158 in July 2021.

The increase helped make up for a 7% decrease in fundraising revenue over the previous year, from $33,216 in July 2020 to $30,913 in July 2021.

However, the spike in program revenue also is counterbalanced by increases of 108% and 73% in program costs and fundraising expenses over last year,

County board member sets terms for Holmes Beach funding Editor’s note: On Sept. 16, Manatee County Commissioner Kevin Van Ostenbridge, whose district includes Anna Maria Island and Cortez, sent the following letter to Holmes Beach Mayor Judy Titsworth. The letter was edited to include full names and for AP newspaper style.

I am writing you today in hopes of coming to terms on a mutually beneficial agreement between Manatee County and the City of Holmes Beach.

This document is not a formal agreement.

This a letter from one elected official to another meant to start a conversation that will lead to compromise.

Manatee County taxpayers own and maintain all of Manatee County’s beaches.

My goal is to provide fair and equal beach access to all residents of Manatee County I believe this can be achieved while protecting the property, privacy and quality of life of the residents of Holmes Beach.

I recognize that in the past, island residents have not received the level of service they should expect from their county government.

For that reason, I have in good faith already begun to try to relieve some of the pressure tourism has put on Anna Maria Island residents.

Our board has taken a strong stance in support of the “Love it Like a Local” campaign and I hope to expand this campaign in the future.

Manatee County Commissioner Carol Whitmore and I have worked to alter the timing of traffic signals in Holmes Beach during PM rush hour.

I am told this is helping to clear your streets

faster by more efficiently moving cars off the island in the evenings.

Our board also recently unanimously approved Holmes Beach’s request for a West Coast Inland Navigation District grant to fund a new Holmes Beach police patrol boat.

In our budget passed this week, we funded a new patrol boat for the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office that will help to increase patrols of the Holmes Beach shoreline.

I have great confidence that a majority of the board of county commissioners will be agreeable to the terms of this proposal.

I hope that your commission will also find these terms fair to all parties.

If you believe these terms are unfair to Manatee County residents, please, respond to this letter accordingly.

Manatee County desired commitments: 1. Manatee County to continue county participation in beach nourishment program via tourist development council funds.

2. Pursue construction of a three-level parking garage on county-owned property at Manatee Avenue and Gulf Drive.

3. Provide weekend solid waste removal at beach access points.

4. Enact a weekly text-messaging system to welcome visitors to our island communities and increase awareness of local rules and ordinances.

5. Provide additional law enforcement for beach patrols when requested by Holmes Beach.

6. Make code enforcement personnel available

when requested by Holmes Beach for parking and beach patrols.

7. Work to secure a water taxi service from mainland Manatee County to Anna Maria Island with a stop in Holmes Beach.

8. Enter into an interlocal agreement with the School District of Manatee County to provide overflow beach parking at Anna Maria Elementary School.

9. Operate the Manatee County Island Library parking lot as a trolley park-and-ride station on weekends and holidays.

10. Reconsider the city of Holmes Beach’s request for TDC funding for multimodal transportation enhancements.

Holmes Beach desired commitments: 1. Reinstate on-street parking to prepandemic levels.

2. Repeal parking permit program.

3. Establish a program with reasonable restrictions that allows all churches to use their parking lots for beach parking fundraisers.

4. Provide water taxi dockage near the Holmes Beach city center.

5. Support all county parking initiatives listed in this agreement.

Manatee County Commissioner Kevin Van Ostenbridge Note: HB Mayor Titsworth was returning from vacation Sept. 20, and was not available to comment on Van Ostenbridge’s terms before The Islander went to press for the week.

Sept. 22, 2021 THE ISLANDER | islander.org page 9 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

BB gives nod to increased taxes, 2021-22 spending By amy V.t. moriarty islander reporter

By unanimous vote, Bradenton Beach commissioners passed the 2021-22 fiscal year budget — $3,631,757 in spending — Sept. 16.

The 2020-21 spending plan was $2,085,629.

The new fiscal year starts Oct. 1 and includes a tax hike with the millage rate at 2.3329 for at least a fourth year. That rate is a 4.83% increase over the 2.2254 rollback rate.

Millage, the number of dollars taxed per $1,000 of property value determines a property owner’s ad valorem tax for a year.

At 2.3329 mills, the ad valorem tax for a $500,000 property would be about $1,166.

The rollback rate represents the rate at which the city would collect the same amount of ad valorem revenue for the next fiscal year as it did this year.

At the 2.2254 rollback rate, the owner of the property valued at $500,000 would pay about $1,112 in ad valorem taxes.

Treasurer Shayne Thompson reported an additional $953 in revenue was reported from Manatee County in the week between the first reading of the budget Sept.

9 and its adoption Sept. 15, and was the only change.

Before voting to accept the budget as presented, Commissioner Jan Vosburgh said, “I would like to challenge the commissioners and the city to try really hard to lower the mill rate for next year since we have all these wonderful party houses that are paying a lot of taxes that we should work to try to lower the taxes of Bradenton Beach.”

The 2021-22 budget includes a 5% pay increase for city employees.

A budget also was adopted for the community redevelopment agency, the special district bordered

by Cortez Road, Sarasota Bay, Fifth Street South and the Gulf of Mexico. The CRA promotes restoration, growth and tourism for the district by funding capital improvement projects with incremental tax revenue

collected by Manatee County since 1992, when the area was declared blighted.

The CRA total revenue for the next fiscal year is $1,413,402 and total expenditures amount is $2,455,627. Expenditures include a funding increase of $40,000 for holiday decorations and a share of a 5% bump in salaries for city employees.

The bulk of the CRA money will be spent on capital projects, including living shoreline work, resiliency, arts and culture, beautification, finger docks at the Historic Bridge Street Pier, buried utilities, streetlights, pavers, landscaping and a tram path.

CRA revenues come from a variety of sources, including concession funds, state appropriations, interest income and the bulk of the money from the shared revenue generated by property taxes, including from the city and the county, with the county contribution for fiscal 2021-22 projected at $537,849.

The CRA budget meeting was about 11 minutes.

The budget meeting was about 13 minutes, including a comment from a visitor from Fort Myers Beach regarding the city’s floating and dinghy docks and how they compare to those in other cities.

Improvements to finger and dinghy docks are included in the CRA budget, with matching funding coming from Manatee County tourist tax, collected as part of the 5% tax on accommodations of six months.

Mayor John Chappie thanked the man for his comment and called for the vote to adopt the budget.

BB Y-to-Y budget 2021-22 proposed budget

expenditures: $3,631,757 revenues: $4,187,065 reserves: $120,268 millage rate: 2.3329 rollback rate: 2.2254 property value: $726,194,243 tingley Library: $46,532 — amy moriarty

2020-21 budget $2,085,629 $3,230,760 $1,145,131 2.3329 $690,318,688 $21,394

County adopts tax increase, $2.2 billion budget

Manatee County commissioners Sept. 14 unanimously voted to set a $2.2 billion budget.

The board of commissioners reduced the proposed tax rate by 0.20 mills to 6.3826 due “to another year of significant increases in local property values,” stated a Sept 17 county news release.

The 2020-21 millage rate was 6.4326 and the tentative millage rate proposed in June was at 6.5826.

While the county commission cut the proposed rate by 0.20 mills in the final vote, the new rate still represents a tax increase, as the rollback rate — the rate at which the county would collect the same amount of ad valorem revenue as this year — is 6.1917 mills.

The news release stated, “Under the current tax rate, rising values would have resulted in a $21 million increase in revenues over the current fiscal year. Instead, commissioners unanimously approved the 0.2 mill reduction, which returns $8.3 million to taxpayers.” It amounts to almost $13 million more than last year’s ad valorem collection.

The budget includes the largest five-year capital improvement plan in county history, spending $997 million dollars on infrastructure, public safety, parks and our environment.

The budget also allocates $350.3 million for transportation projects, $80.3 million for parks and $39.1 million for public safety.

The adopted budget includes new positions, including 14 sheriff’s deputies, 14 posts in building and development services and 12 paramedics.

Island property tax bills include taxes for the city, the county, school district, Southwest Florida Water Management District, West Coast Inland Navigation District and mosquito control. The county portion of the tax bill typically is the largest amount.

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page 10 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Sept. 22, 2021 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

The Islander Calendar ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT ONGOiNG ON AMi

Through sept. 26, island Players’ performance of “The savannah sipping society,” 10009 Gulf drive, Anna Maria.

Fee applies. information: 941-778-5755.

Throughout september, “Live Colorfully” membership exhibit, island Gallery west, 5368 Gulf drive, holmes Beach. information: 941-7786648.

Throughout september, “Life at the Beach,” Artists’ Guild Gallery, 5414 Marina drive, holmes Beach. information: 941-7786694.

AheAd ON AMi

second and fourth saturdays, noon-2 p.m., Music on the Porch jam session, presented by the Florida Maritime Museum and Cortez Cultural Center, outdoors, 4415 119th st. w., Cortez. information: fmminfo@manateeclerk. com.

“Battles of the Boneless” exhibit, the Bishop Museum of science and Nature, 201 10th st. w., Bradenton. Fee applies. information: 941-746-4131.

Through sept. 26, “skyway 20/21: A Contemporary Collaboration,” John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, 5401 Bay Shore Road, Sarasota. Fee applies. Information: 941-359-5700.

Through sept. 26, Marie selby Botanical Gardens’ “we dream A world, African American Landscape Painters of Mid-Century Florida, The highwaymen,” 1534 Mound st., sarasota. Fee applies. information: 941-366-5731. sept. 25-August 2022, “seeing the invisible” augmented reality exhibit, Marie selby Botanical Gardens, 1534 Mound st., sarasota.

Fee applies. information: 941-366-5731.

Through Oct. 10, “Women in Print” exhibit, John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, 5401 Bay Shore Road, Sarasota. Fee applies. information: 941-359-5700.

Through Jan. 16, 2022, “Prints, Ceramics and Glass from Japan,” John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, 5401 Bay Shore Road, Sarasota. Fee applies. Information: 941-359-5700.

Oct. 8, Artists’ Guild Gallery grand reopening, holmes Beach.

Oct. 15, Anna Maria island Chamber of Commerce Bayfest kickoff, Anna Maria.

Oct. 16, Anna Maria island Chamber of Commerce Bayfest, Anna Maria.

Nov. 12, Anna Maria island historical society ice Cream social, Anna Maria.

Nov. 4-14, island Players’ “same Time, Next Year,” Anna Maria.

Nov. 13, Anna Maria island Concert Chorus and Orchestra’s AheAd OFF AMi “symphony on the sand,” Bradenton Beach.

Oct. 9-Nov. 28, selby Gardens’ annual orchid show, saraNov. 17, island Players audition for “Blithe spirit,” Anna sota.

Maria.

Oct. 13, Off stage Ladies begin meeting, Bradenton. dec. 10, holiday walk of Treasures open houses and holiday Oct. 15, Ringling’s Noche Cubano Dance Party, Sarasota.

Carols in the Park, Anna Maria.

Oct. 14-31, Manatee Players’ “Mamma Mia!,” Bradenton.

OFF AMi Oct. 23, Florida Maritime Museum/Cortez Cultural Center Cortez Nautical Flea Market, Cortez.

Friday, Sept. 24 Nov. 13, Anna Maria island Privateers Black Tie Fundraising 6:30 p.m. — “The Infiltrators” screening, John and Mable RingGala to benefi t the Early Learning Coalition of Manatee County, ling Museum of Art, 5401 Bay Shore Road, Sarasota. Fee applies.

Bradenton. information: 941-359-5700. dec. 3-5, Bradenton Blues Fest, Bradenton.

ONGOiNG OFF AMi First Fridays, 6-9:30 p.m., village of the Arts First Fridays Artwalk, 12th street west and 12th Avenue west, Bradenton. information: www.villageofthearts.com.

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KIDS & FAMILY ON AMi

compiled by Lisa neff, calendar@islander.org.

Bishop Museum of science and Nature, 201 10th st. w., Bradenton. Fee applies. information: soarin4.org, 941-746-4131. saturdays and sundays, 3 p.m., Tales Under the Tree, the Bishop Museum of science and Nature, 201 10th st. w., Bradenton.

Fee applies. information: 941-746-4131.

AheAd OFF AMi dec. 4, Florida Maritime Museum’s Christmas in Cortez, Cortez.

CLUBS & COMMUNITY ON AMi Friday, Sept. 24 11:30 a.m. — Mah Jongg Club, island Library, 5701 Marina drive, Holmes Beach. Registration: mymanatee.org/library. information: 941-7786341.

Tuesday, Sept. 28 11:30 a.m. — Mah Jongg Club, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Registration: mymanatee.org/library. Information: 941-778-6341.

ONGOiNG ON AMi saturdays, 8:30 a.m., kiwanis Club of Anna Maria island meeting, Gulf drive Cafe, 900 Gulf drive N., Bradenton Beach. information: 941-7781383.

AheAd ON AMi Oct. 12, first Anna Maria Farmers Market in the Park of the season, Anna Maria.

Oct. 20, Anna Maria island Garden Club meeting, Anna Maria.

Nov. 11, veterans day Parade on Pine and recognition ceremony, Anna Maria.

Nov. 6, keep Manatee Beautiful’s Manatee Public Beach cleanup, holmes Beach.

Nov. 17, Anna Maria island Garden Club Plant sale, Anna Maria. dec. 4, keep Manatee Beautiful’s Coquina Beach cleanup, Bradenton Beach.

OFF AMi Friday, Sept. 24 10 a.m. — 40 Carrots Partners in Play, island Library, 5701 Sunday, Sept. 26 11 a.m. — suncoast waterMarina Drive, Holmes Beach. Registration: mymanatee.org/library. keeper Brunch for the Bay, sarainformation: 941-778-6341. sota Yacht Club, 1100 John RingAheAd ON AMi ling Blvd., sarasota. Fee applies. information: 941-202-3182.

Dec. 28, first Movies in the Park of the season, Anna Maria.

ONGOiNG OFF AMi ONGOiNG OFF AMi wednesdays, 3 p.m., the Longboat key Paradise Center for First wednesdays, 5:30 p.m., “soar in 4 Family Night, the

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Sept. 22, 2021 THE ISLANDER | islander.org page 11 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Watercolor workshops online

On exhibit

Artist’s ‘Splash’

a detail from anne abgott’s “Bird of paradise.” the watercolorist will teach an online class — presented by the artists’ guild of anna maria island — at 10 a.m. monday, Sept. 27. additional classes include a lesson in watercolors by gwen Kodad at 10:30 a.m. monday, oct. 11, and another class by abgott at 10 a.m. monday, oct. 18. for more, go online to amiartistsguildgallery.com. islander courtesy photo

a detail of Sigalit Landau’s “Salt Stalagmite #1 (three Bridges),” which will be shown through august 2022 in the “Seeing the invisible” augmented reality exhibit at the marie Selby Botanical gardens, 1534 mound St., Sarasota. the show features work by more than a dozen international artists. for more, call the Selby at 941-366-5731. islander courtesy photo

artist Susanna Spann, a member of the artists’ guild in Holmes Beach and resident of cortez, announced Sept. 9 that her paintings were featured in two art magazines: Splash 22, the Best of Watercolor and acrylic 8, the Best of acrylic paintings.

She found inspiration for her “Beach Blues Bash” watercolor at a Bradenton blues festival. islander courtesy photo

cALENDAR from page 10

Bayside. information: eventbrite.com/941- 955-8085.

GOOD TO KNOW 9-11 a.m. — international Coastal keeP The dATes Cleanup on Palma sola Causeway, sunday, Oct. 31, halloween.

State Road 64/Manatee Avenue, Brasunday, Nov. 7, daylight saving denton. information: 941-795-8272. time ends.

Sunday, Sept. 26 Thursday, Nov. 11, veterans 9 a.m.-noon — Manatee County extension service Master Gardeners mobile plant clinic, Robinson Preserve, 1704 99th St. day.

Tuesday, dec. 21, winter solNw, Bradenton. information: 941-722-4524. stice.

ONGOiNG OFF AMi saturday, dec. 25, Christmas Saturdays, 8 a.m., Robinson Runners running club, Robinson day.

Preserve expansion, 840 99th st. Nw, Bradenton. information: 941Friday, dec. 31, New Year’s eve.

742-5923, ext. 6047.

GET LISTED saturdays, 9 a.m., saturday Mornings at the NesT nature send announcements for The islander calendar to calendar@ exploration, Robinson Preserve expansion, 840 99th St. NW, Braislander.org. The deadline is the wednesday before the publication denton. information: 941-742-5923, ext. 6047. date. Please event details and a contact number.

AheAd OFF AMi

healthy Living “Grieve Not Alone: Peer support Group,” 546 Bay Isles Road, Longboat Key. Information: 941-383-6493.

Tuesdays, noon, Rotary Club of Anna Maria Island lunch meeting, Compass hotel by Margaritaville, 12324 Manatee Ave. w., Perico island. second Tuesdays at 5 p.m. information: 941-9202505.

AheAd OFF AMi Oct. 2, Manatee County Agriculture and extension service Fall Plant Fair and Marketplace, Palmetto.

Oct. 16, Paradise Center of Longboat key’s Making strides Against Breast Cancer walk, Longboat key.

Nov. 12-13, Manatee River Garden Club Flower Show, Bradenton.

OUTDOORS & SPORTS ONGOiNG ON AMi AMi dragon Boat Team—Paddlers From Paradise practices and meetups, various times and locations. information: 941-462-2626, mrbradway@gmail.com.

Oct. 8, keep Manatee Beautiful’s “Fore the environment” Charity Golf, Bradenton.

Oct. 23, Oct. 30, Nov. 27, Perico Preserve tours, Perico island.

OFF AMi Saturday, Sept. 25 8 a.m. — sarasota Bay estuary Program/New College of Florida Tidy island volunteer planting, departing from Coquina Beach

A Hair Day Salon & Spa HAVING A BAD HAIR DAY?

AheAd ON AMi Nov. 7, Manatee County Audubon Society field trip to Bean Point, Anna Maria.

Visit islander.org for the best news on AmI.

Submit your social news, weddings, anniversaries, births, travel photos and event news and photos to news@islander.org.

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page 12 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Sept. 22, 2021 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Island Players return, bringing laughs to the house 7 3 RD S E A S O N

in the island players’ production of “the Savannah Sipping Society,” directed by mike Lusk and onstage through Sept. 26, Laura morales, left, portrays marla faye mosley, Susie Lowe is Jinx Jenkins, cathy Hansel-edgerton is dot Haigler and Jennifer Kwiatkowski is randa covington. the theater is at 10009 gulf drive, anna maria. for more information, call the box office at 941778-5755 or go to www. theislandplayers.org. islander courtesy photo

By nicole Quigley Special to the islander

Well, islanders, get yourselves to the show and pull up a seat on the veranda because the Island Players are back with sass in “The Savannah Sipping Society.”

It’s the 73rd season for the players.

Quigley It’s the first indoor, in-person production since the onset of the pandemic in March 2020 and the laugh-a-minute story of four Southern women is just the cure for the social distance blues.

The unlikely friends meet at a yoga class gone wrong when the hilarious Laura Morales grumbles onto the stage and announces, “If it wasn’t for mood swings, I’d never get any exercise at all.”

Soon, the women discover that after job loss, divorce and widowhood, each has found herself in the second act of life — alone again and starting over.

When one of the friends, played by the effervescent Susie Lowe, reveals she is a life coach, the remaining three agree to become her first customers.

The coach’s orders: Have fun! Take on new adventures. And say “yes” to whatever she recommends.

What unfolds is a story of shenanigans and heartbreak that veteran IP director Mike Lusk delivers seamlessly — and with pitch-perfect casting.

The continuous laughs and strong female characters are hallmarks of leading playwrights Jessie Jones, Nicholas Hope and Jamie Wooten, a writer and producer for many seasons of the TV comedy “The Golden Girls.”

Theatergoers also will notice creative use of lighting and vivid costumes that keep the play moving.

“Savannah Sipping” also brought the return of IP favorites Cathy Hansel-Edgerton, portraying a former teacher who finds her stride, and Jennifer Kwiatkowski, who plays a late 40s workaholic who wonders if she will have much in common with friends of a different age.

Spoiler alert: womanhood is universal.

The play reflects so much of what makes our own island special — the story of how people of different ages from different places can come together to build a sort of “family” when they’re willing to try new things together.

As Lusk shares in his director’s note, what brought these friends together at first “…is that they all had something (or someone) missing in their lives. As they get to know each other more over the year, they become, as (Lowe) calls them, a family of friends. And when you find that, you’ve found that wonderful thing that we are looking for.”

It is a fitting production for Island Players in this first play since the onset of the pandemic. When the theater company needed to cancel the remaining productions of their season in spring 2020, most members of the community donated their tickets without requesting refunds. The nonprofit used the time to make repairs to the playhouse, which has stood on the corner of Pine Avenue and Gulf Drive since 1912.

Now the Island Players are anticipating a vibrant season as they return to the stage, noting that the situation remains fluid. The theater is taking care to ensure the safety of the cast and patrons, requiring masks and conducting temperature checks at the door.

IP president Sylvia Marnie notes, “While the world and many of our own lives were put on pause, we took the opportunity to use this intermission to make some exciting changes at the theatre. This, along with our chance to finally welcome you back to our theatrical family in person, makes this forthcoming season all the more special.”

Island Players performances would not be possible without the theater’s support group, Off Stage Ladies, a group of tireless volunteers who co-produce productions and volunteer wherever they are needed to make the season a success.

Also playing leading roles behind the scenes are the artistic and production staff, including Lusk, who

By Ryan Paice, ryan@islander.org

Off Stage Ladies to lunch

The first meeting of the Off Stage Ladies auxiliary’s 2021-22 season will be at 11:45 a.m.

Wednesday, Oct. 13, at Pier 22, 1200 First Ave. W., Bradenton.

The featured speaker will be Sylvia Marnie, Island Players president, discussing the new season and changes in the theater.

The auxiliary group supports the Island Players and meets the second Wednesday of the month October-May. Membership dues are $20 a year.

For more information, contact Roe Duncan, vice president for membership, at 941-932-2798. directs and serves as sound designer, stage manager and light/sound technician Priscilla Boyd, set designer Jan Van Wart, light designer Ethan Vail, costume designer Pamela Hopkins, makeup and hair Rita Lameroux, a props team headed by Marsha Lindsey, a set construction crew headed by Jack Abene and a box office team headed by Peg Faarup.

The remainder of the season includes “Same Time, Next Year,” Nov. 4-14; “Blythe Spirit,” Jan. 6-23, 2022; “A Comedy of Tenors,” March 3-20, 2022; and “The Psychic,” May 5-15, 2022.

Performances for the run of “Savannah” are through Sunday, Sept. 26, at the playhouse, 10009 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria.

Showtimes are Tuesday-Saturday at 7:30 p.m., and Sunday at 2 p.m. Tickets are $25.

The box office is open 9 a.m.-1 p.m. MondaySaturday and one hour before each performance.

For more information, call 941-778-5755 or go online at www.theislandplayers.org.

Nicole Quigley is the author of an award-winning young adult novel, “Like Moonlight at Low Tide,” set on the island. She is a lifelong resident of Anna Maria Island.

AME Calendar

Practicing for Peace Day anna maria elementary teacher gary Wooten leads students Sept. 14 through practice for the school’s virtual peace day celebration, which was set for Sept. 21, after the islander’s press deadline. the celebration has drawn crowds in years past for a parade of flags and the performance of songs and poems, but was to be held virtually due to the coronavirus pandemic. the recorded event can be viewed at the school’s website, manateeschools.net/annamaria. islander photo: courtesy regina Van over

• Sept. 23, 3:45 p.m., SAC virtual meeting.

• Oct. 7, end of quarter.

• Oct. 8, record day, no school.

• Oct. 13, picture retakes.

• Oct. 23, 4-8 p.m., Fall Festival at the Center of Anna Maria island.

• Nov. 11, Veterans Day, no school.

• Nov. 18, 3:45 p.m., SAC virtual meeting.

• Nov. 22-26, Thanksgiving break.

• Dec. 21, end of semester.

• Dec. 22-31, winter break.

Anna Maria elementary is at 4700 Gulf drive, holmes Beach.

For more information, call the school at 941-708-5525.

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

Sept. 22, 2021 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 13 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

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page 14 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Sept. 22, 2021 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Island unicyclist completes century ride for cancer charity

GoodDeeds

perico island resident Scott Huibers — who unicycled more than 100 miles from Key Largo to Key West over Labor day weekend to raise money for children with cancer — poses Sept. 5 at the southernmost point in Key West. islander courtesy photo

By Kane Kaiman islander reporter

He hopes to tip the balance for sick kids — while keeping his own.

Perico Island resident Scott Huibers completed a 104-mile unicycle ride from Key Largo to Key West over Labor Day weekend to raise money and awareness for children fighting cancer.

Huibers began the 31-hour journey — which included a brush with heat stroke, four falls and an overnight stay in Bahia Honda State Park during which he was badly dehydrated and ravaged by mosquitoes — Sept. 4 as part of the Great Cycle Challenge USA. During the annual, monthlong challenge, cyclists set a mileage and fundraising goal. All funds raised go to the Children’s Cancer Research Fund, a national nonprofit that has contributed more than $200 million to cancer research, support programs, education and awareness outreach since 1981.

As of Sept. 16, Huibers had ridden 175 miles of a 400-mile goal and had raised $3,234 — far surpassing his $1,500 target.

Born in Canada, Huibers has lived all over the world.

As a child in Belgium, he lost a friend to cancer.

Huibers said Sept. 16 mental images of his friend and other children battling cancer motivated him to complete the journey, despite physical and mental exhaustion.

“Every time I wanted to give up, I just thought, ‘Hey, I’m struggling really hard right now, but these kids are in a hospital right now. And they don’t get to choose to be in a hospital. So why should I get to

choose to stop a ride just because my bum’s a little sore?’” he said.

Huibers began unicycling while in the eighthgrade and fell in love with the challenge of traveling long distances on one wheel.

He has participated in the Great Cycle Challenge for five years, steadily increasing his mileage and fundraising totals.

Most participants complete the challenge on bicycles and Huibers said he hopes the novelty of

FISH hears from partners on preserve progress

By Kane Kaiman islander reporter

It’s not supposed to be an exotic destination.

Jay Leverone, senior environmental scientist for the Sarasota Bay Estuary Program, and Alex Garner, chairman of the Bradenton Kiwanis Club Satellite, spoke with Florida Institute for Saltwater Heritage leadership about their organizations’ FISH preserve restoration efforts at a meeting Sept. 13 at Fishermen’s Hall in Cortez.

In 2000, FISH, a nonprofit dedicated to preserving Cortez’s commercial fishing heritage, purchased the FISH preserve, an approximately 100-acre tract of land east of the village.

Since about 2005, the nonprofit has worked with various organizations, including SBEP, to restore the land to its natural state.

At the meeting, Leverone spoke about an effort to remove exotic plants from an eastern portion of the preserve.

On Sept. 7, Earth Balance crews under the direction of FISH and SBEP began removing Australian pine, pepper and melaleuca trees, as well as other exotic species from a 1.5-acre area of the preserve

adjacent to Cortez Road and a Florida Department of Transportation retention pond about 900 feet east of 115th Street West.

Some Australian pines near the pond will not be removed to provide shade for picnic tables and parking spaces.

The exotic plant removal marks the beginning of the final phase of the preserve restoration project.

Eliminating the non-native, invasive plants — which grow quickly, block sunlight and, in the case of Australian pine trees, change the acidity of the soil — gives native species the opportunity to thrive.

In addition to exotic plant removal, the reestablishment of waterway connections and wetland restoration, FISH, SBEP and other organizations intend to create a space for people to enjoy nature, complete with bridges, trails and picnic areas.

Garner in 2018 founded the Bradenton Kiwanis Club Satellite — a 12-15-member branch of the organization that specializes in manual labor volunteering.

He spoke Sept.13 about the group’s efforts to remove smaller exotic plants from the preserve, including Brazilian pepper and carrotwood trees.

The club satellite has requested funding from the Bradenton Kiwanis Club to build a bridge over a tidal creek in the eastern section of the preserve, he said.

Garner has ties to FISH and the preserve.

His father was the first FISH president and, as an Eagle Scout in 2004, Garner designed and built a bridge in the preserve adjacent to the “trap yard” at the south end of 119th Street West.

Garner told The Islander Sept. 14 the club satellite is dedicated to doing what it can to help develop the FISH preserve into a destination for nature-lovers.

at a Sept. 13 meeting at fishermen’s Hall in cortez, Jay Leverone, right, senior environmental scientist for the Sarasota Bay estuary program, updates the florida institute for Saltwater Heritage board on a joint effort to remove exotic plants from an area of the nonprofit’s nature preserve. islander photo: Kane Kaiman

his unicycle brings smiles to the faces of children struggling with the disease and draws greater attention to the cause.

After his Labor Day weekend century ride — cycling terminology for a 100-mile journey — Huibers encountered two people whose lives have been affected by cancer.

While enjoying a beer in a bar in Key West Sept.

5, he met a woman undergoing chemotherapy and they had an emotional discussion about the importance of positive energy.

“It was really special to have someone there who was going through what the kids are going through,” he said.

Before leaving Key West Sept. 6, Huibers met a young woman who had entered remission after her a battle cancer.

“She got goose bumps and I got goose bumps and I almost broke into tears. And I told the girl, ‘I’m glad you’re doing better and I hope you’re enjoying life right now,” Huibers said.

“That was truly touching, when I actually met a kid who had battled cancer, and has been through it all,” he said.

Huibers said the experience deepened his resolve to continue participating in the challenge for years to come.

To track Huibers’ progress and donate to fight kids’ cancer, visit greatcyclechallenge.com/riders/ scotthuibers.

To view videos of Huibers’ Key West ride, visit instagram.com/captscotth/.

Anna Maria receives grant to mark history By amy V.t. moriarty islander reporter

Anna Maria is soliciting contractor bids for a citywide historical survey.

A $50,000 state grant awarded to Anna Maria in early-August will fund the work of identifying which properties could be eligible for designation as historical sites.

The scope of the work is dictated by the state, according to city planner Chad Minor. He notified members of the city’s historical preservation committee of the grant during their Sept.

8 meeting.

A contractor selected by Minor and city clerk/treasurer LeAnne Addy must pass muster at the state level before beginning the survey.

The small geographical size of Anna Maria benefits the project because the entire city can be surveyed and provide an inventory of properties so the historical preservation committee can work with property owners on designations.

Benefits of a designation include flexibility when it comes to some Federal Emergency Management Agency stipulations regarding flood standards. A designation lasts as long as a property exists or until it has been irreversibly altered and no longer possesses the qualities that contributed to its historic significance.

In May, the preservation committee designated Anna Maria’s first two historic sites: The city-owned building operates by the Anna Maria Island Historical Society for a museum and the city-owned playhouse operated by the Island Players.

The committee will meet at 10 a.m. Tuesday, Oct. 26, and hear an outline of how a contractor would survey the city.

For more information about historical designation in Anna Maria, call Minor at 941-7086130, ext. 127.

Sept. 22, 2021 THE ISLANDER | islander.org page 15 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

GoodDeeds

Cleaning up on the coast

Assistance sought on AMI

• Ministry of Presence Inc. seeks medications and monetary donations to aid earthquake victims in Haiti, donations to The Islander, 315 58th St., Suite J, Holmes Beach, or mail to MoP, P.O. Box 770, Oneco, FL 34264.

• Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce seeks volunteers and sponsors for Bayfest in Anna Maria Oct. 15-16, as well as greeters in the chamber office.

Information: 941-778-1541.

• Senior Adventurers group seeks events coordinators and a van driver for Friday outings. Information: 941-447-5076 • 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.

• Keep Manatee Beautiful seeks volunteers for cleanups and other efforts. Info: 941-795-8272.

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.

• AID offers help to those who live on the island, go to church on the island, attend school on the island and work on the island. Information: 941-725-2433.

— Lisa neff

Submit listings

The Islander welcomes listings for GoodDeeds at calendar@islander.org.

a work crew gathers for a photo Sept. 11 after volunteering for a beach cleanup coordinated from the anna maria island moose Lodge no. 2188, 110 gulf drive S., Bradenton Beach. participants included Summer Jones, roseann Jones holding found $50, tracey gassom, Linda collins, tracey moon, mike Quinn, Jodie Quinn, collen Wisnom, Katie Watts and Jennifer Beirav. about 400 pounds of trash was picked up by 71 volunteers. islander courtesy photo

Estuary week promotes action, awareness The Sarasota Bay Estuary Program is marking National Estuaries Week through Sept. 23.

The SBEP, dedicated to restoring and protecting Sarasota Bay, encourages people to take a guided tour of Leffis Key in Bradenton Beach with executive director Dave Tomasko at 9 a.m. Wednesday, Sept. 22.

SBEP also is coordinating a plant day on Tidy Island Saturday, Sept. 25, in partnership with New College of Florida.

The volunteers will depart for Tidy Island, home

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to the most extensive mangrove swamp on Sarasota Bay, from Coquina Beach Bayside in Bradenton Beach at about 8 a.m.

On Tidy Island, they’ll plant native species in locations where other volunteers removed invasive species.

To register, go online to eventbrite.com.

For more information, go online to sarasotabay. org or call 941-955-8085.

— Lisa neff

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page 16 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Sept. 22, 2021 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Gathering

members of the island churches met Sept. 8 at St. Bernard catholic church, 248 S. Harbor drive, Holmes Beach, to discuss the works of all island denominations, the coalition of ami churches that had not held an in-person meeting since march 2020 and the onset of the coronavirus pandemic. aid presents islandwide programs and strives to help meet basic needs, including support for the roser food pantry. islander photos: peggy nash

Church members come together for AID By peggy nash Special to the islander

Aid from AID continues on AMI. A dozen members of island churches gathered for the first in-person All Island Denominations meeting since March 2020, when the coronavirus pandemic hit in Florida.

Communication throughout the pandemic had been by phone and email for AID, the coalition of island churches dedicated to helping people with basic needs and hosting special programs.

The AID meeting took place at St. Bernard Catholic Church in Holmes Beach, where the Rev. Matthew Grunfeld of the Episcopal Church of the Annunciation led an opening prayer.

Others presented reports, including AID president Cornelia Zanetti, who welcomed attendees and thanked the Home Sweet Home organization and the Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce’s trolley grant awards for supporting AID. AID treasurer Marion Duncan said money is available to assist islanders and people with ties to the island, including those working or attending to church on AMI and families with students at Anna Maria Elementary School.

In another report, Jack Brennan announced his wife, Lynn, is managing the food pantry at Roser Memorial Community Church, 511 Pine Ave., Anna Maria.

Brennan also said 49 bags of groceries were distributed from the pantry in August and a “Blessing Box” outside the pantry that offers take-away nonperishables is “replenished constantly.”

Brennan offered to provide boxes for locations in Holmes Beach and Bradenton Beach.

AID also recently announced the annual Thanksgiving ecumenical service will not take place this year.

For more information about AID, including details about assistance, contact any of the island churches.

Tidings

REGULAR WORSHIP

Thursdays, 7 p.m., Roser Church chancel choir rehearsals.

Thursdays, 9:30 a.m., Roser Church Roser Robics fitness.

Tuesdays, 9:30 a.m., Roser Church Roser Robics fitness.

Monday-Friday 8:30 a.m. — st. Bernard Catholic Church, 248 s. harbor drive, holmes Beach. information: 941-778-4769.

SAVE THE DATES Thursdays Oct. 9, eCA potluck supper.

9:30 a.m. — episcopal Church of the Annunciation, 4408 Gulf Nov. 6, Roser Memorial Community Church Holiday Craft drive, holmes Beach. information: 941-778-1638.

Fair.

Saturdays Nov. 28, hanukkah begins.

4 p.m. — st. Bernard Catholic Church. dec. 4, eCA holly Berry Bazaar.

Sundays dec. 6, hanukkah ends.

8 a.m. — episcopal Church of the Annunciation.

Dec. 12, Roser Church blood drive.

8:30 a.m. — st. Bernard Catholic Church. dec. 24, Christmas eve.

8:30 a.m. — Roser Memorial Community Church, 512 Pine dec. 25, Christmas day.

Ave., Anna Maria. information: 941-778-0414.

Please, send notices to calendar@islander.org.

9 a.m. — CrossPointe Fellowship, 8605 Gulf drive, holmes Beach. information: 941-778-0719. a “bless9:15 a.m. — harvey Memorial Community Church, 300 Church ing box” Ave., Bradenton Beach. information: 941-779-1912. outside 9:45 a.m. — episcopal Church of the Annunciation. the roser 9:30 a.m. — Gloria dei Lutheran Church, 6608 Marina drive. food holmes Beach. information: 941-778-1813. pantry, 10 a.m. — Roser Church.

511 pine 10 a.m. — Christ Church of Longboat key Presbyterian UsA, ave., anna 6400 Gulf of Mexico drive, Longboat key. information: 941-900maria, 4903. holds non10 a.m. — Longboat island Chapel, 6200 Gulf of Mexico drive, perishable Longboat key. information: 941-383-6491. food items 10:30 a.m. — st. Bernard. for people to take as ONGOING EVENTS they need. wednesdays, 6:45 p.m., CrossPointe Fellowship wednesday Night Blast.

Milestones

Travels

He said ‘Yes.’ Then she said ‘Yes.’

Traveling with the island news Brenda twiss and Jennifer Kring cart celebrate a combined 120 years with a mother-daughter trip to the islands of croatia. croatia has more than 1,200 islands and islets located in the adriatic Sea. islander courtesy photo

islander reporter ryan paice and his fiance, cristyne ramirez, both of Bradenton, show off their engagement rings Sept. 10 after the pair surprised each other with proposals when they reached the top of mt. monadnock in new Hampshire. islander photo: Scott paice

SUNDAY WORSHIP • 8:30 AM or 10:00 AM

COMMUNITY CHURCH IN PERSON in the Sanctuary Nursery • Children’s Church ONLINE • Watch LIVE or LATER www.RoserChurch.com Text ROSER to 22828 to receive the weekly eBulletin The CHAPEL is open during office hours for prayer & meditation

Growing in Jesus’ Name

Essential ENGAGEMENT

Sunday Service 10:00 AM The Rev. Dr. Norman Pritchard Masks Are Optional Visitors & Residents Welcome Watch Our 10:00 AM Service Live:

COMMITMENT TO OTHERS

941-778-0414 • 512 Pine Ave, Anna Maria • FOLLOW us on Facebook @RoserChurch

Worship With Us at Our Church

www.bit.ly/cclbksermons or www.christchurchof lbk.org (follow YouTube link)

6400 Gulf of Mexico Dr.

•

941.383.8833 (office)

•

www.christchurchlbk.org

Sept. 22, 2021 THE ISLANDER | islander.org page 17 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Streetlife

Staff reports

Island police reports

Anna Maria Sept. 9, 500 block of Villa Rosa Way, assist Manatee County Sheriff’s Office. An officer responded to assist Anna Maria sheriff’s deputies with a missing juvenile reportedly threatening harm to himself. The officer found the juvenile, who threatened to jump from a balcony and injure himself. An MCSO deputy secured the juvenile.

Reporting is limited by technical problems in the records system at the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office.

The MCSO polices Anna Maria.

Bradenton Beach No new reports.

The Bradenton Beach Police Department polices Bradenton Beach.

Cortez No new reports due to records system technical problems.

The MCSO polices Cortez.

Holmes Beach Sept. 7, Anchor Inn, 3007 Gulf Drive N., motor vehicle theft. A person called the Holmes Beach Police Department to report her vehicle was missing after she left it parked overnight at the bar. The officer recovered video from the scene.

Sept. 9, La Playa Encantada condos, 6006 Gulf Drive, burglary. An officer responded to reports of a violated protection order. The officer found a woman who said a man entered her home while she was there.

The officer completed a capias request against the man for contempt of court and burglary of an occupied dwelling.

Sept. 10, 5200 Gulf Drive, alcohol and marijuana.

An officer saw two golf cart motorists driving recklessly and impacting traffic. The officer stopped them.

The passengers possessed open alcohol containers and smelled of burnt marijuana. The officer issued citations.

Sept. 11, 4200 block of Gulf Drive, battery. An officer responded to reports of a domestic disturbance and found a man who said his partner battered him after he tried to break up with her. The officer issued a victim’s rights brochure to the man and completed a capias request against his partner for battery.

Sept. 12, Dunkin’, 3302 E. Bay Drive, trespass. An officer responded to reports of a man trespassing. The man had previously been trespassed from the property.

The officer arrested the man and transported him to the Manatee County jail. The business agreed to press charges.

Sept. 14, 200 block of 81st Street, recovered firearm. An officer responded to reports of a recovered firearm. The officer took possession of the firearm for safekeeping.

HBPD polices Holmes Beach..

Streetlife is based on incident reports and narratives from the BBPD, HBPD and MCSO.

Island watch In an emergency, call 911. To report information, call the MCSO Anna Maria substation, 941-708-8899; Bradenton Beach police, 941-778-6311; or Holmes Beach police, 941-708-5804.

Cops & Courts

Kentucky man arrested for battery in HB By ryan paice islander reporter

Holmes Beach police officers arrested George McKay, of Hazard, Kentucky, Sept. 12 on three third-degree felony charges — two for battery on law enforcement officers and one for resisting an officer with violence.

McKay, 60, also is accused of three first-degree misdemeanors for threatening a law enforcement officer and a first-degree misdemeanor for domestic battery.

Officers who responded to reports of a domestic disturbance, located a woman who said McKay had punched her in the face.

With probable cause for arrest, officers entered the building where McKay was possibly inside with a firearm.

Officers found McKay in bed and they directed him to show his hands at gunpoint. He complied.

Officers attempted to detain McKay, but he refused to comply and physically resisted, kicking and pulling away, even after handcuffs were placed on him.

When officers tried to place McKay in a police vehicle, he blew mucus from his nose at an officer and renewed his attempts to physically resist, the police report stated.

McKay also threatened to shoot and kill the officers.

An officer transported McKay to the Manatee County jail, where he remained in custody with a $19,500 bond as of Sept. 16.

Convictions for a third-degree felony charge can include up to five years in prison, a $5,000 fine and up to five years of probation.

An arraignment will be at 9 a.m. Friday, Oct. 8, at the Manatee County Judicial Center, 1051 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton.

Holmes Beach resident arrested for DUI Holmes Beach police officers arrested Jeffrey Shell, of Holmes Beach, Sept. 8 on a second-degree misdemeanor for driving under the influence of alcohol.

An officer saw a vehicle stopped on 81st Street and waved the motorist onward, but the vehicle never moved. So the officer began to pass it before he saw a stop sign protruding from under the vehicle.

The driver, identified as Shell, had bloodshot eyes, slow reactions and smelled of alcohol, according to the police report.

Shell also failed field sobriety tests.

The officer arrested Shell and transported him to the HBPD for processing, where he registered 0.148

and 0.151 grams of ethanol per deciliter of blood in two blood/alcohol level tests.

The legal blood/alcohol content limit for driving under the influence is 0.08 in Florida.

The officer later transported Shell to the Manatee County jail, where he was released Sept. 11 after posting a $120 bail bond.

The charge carries varying punishments, including fines and up to nine months in prison for a first conviction.

An arraignment will be at 8:55 a.m. Tuesday, Oct. 12, at the Manatee County Judicial Center, 1051 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton.

— ryan paice

Political season arrives Signs advertising the campaign of Holmes Beach commissioner terry Schaefer, who is seeking a second term in the nov. 2 municipal election, were sprinkled throughout the city Sept. 19, per a city regulation that allows political signs 45 days in advance of election day. islander photo: Bonner Joy

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page 18 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Sept. 22, 2021 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Nesting notes

By Samara Paice

Sea turtle season winds down

With less than 100 sea turtle nests remaining, Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring volunteers are reenergized after excavating several successful nests and recovering three live hatchlings, including a leucistic loggerhead and a green sea turtle.

AMITW volunteers started monitoring for sea turtle nests in late April and in May began locating nests and, for protection from human intervention, marking and staking the nests.

Once clutches of 100 or so eggs hatched, the volunteers began excavations to log nesting data.

From now through October, the volunteers continue to patrol the beach for new nests and signs of hatched nests.

AMITW sends its data collection statistics to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.

On Sept. 15, AMITW volunteers Hans Duerr and Birgit Kremer excavated three loggerhead nests and one green turtle nest between the 1100 block of Gulf Drive South in Bradenton Beach and 33rd Street in Holmes Beach.

The loggerhead nest excavations resulted in a total of 221 hatched eggs and 51 unhatched eggs.

The green sea turtle nest produced 130 hatched eggs, while16 were unhatched.

Two live loggerhead hatchlings and a green turtle hatchling were recovered with the excavations that day.

One of the loggerheads was leucistic — like albinism — except leucistic hatchlings have reduced pigment and color to their eyes versus albinism which have no pigment and pink eyes.

On Aug. 27, the volunteers found their first leucistic loggerhead on Coquina Beach. The hatchling did not survive after three days at Mote Marine Laboratory’s Sea Turtle Hospital on City Island in Sarasota.

three hatchlings snuggle in a bucket after being rescued Sept. 15 from excavated nests by amitW volunteers Hans duerr and Birgit Kremer.

amitW volunteers Hans duerr and Birgit Kremer monitor two loggerheads and a green sea turtle Sept. 15 near 33rd Street north in Holmes Beach. islander photos: Samara paice

The leucistic hatchling found Sept. 15 near the 2400 block of Gulf Drive North in Bradenton Beach was determined healthy and released to the Gulf of Mexico.

A loggerhead hatchling recovered in an excavation near the 1100 block of Gulf Drive South in Bradenton Beach was kept for evaluation.

The third hatchling recovered was a green sea turtle. With only seven of 420 nests recorded this year being green sea turtle nests, recovering a live green turtle hatchling from the clutch was exciting for Duerr and Kremer.

The green was active, appeared healthy and was released to the Gulf.

The volunteers suspect some of the remaining unhatched nests were under water too long during high tides and washovers that occurred during tropical storms. Those clutches may never hatch.

For more information, go online to islandturtlewatch.com or call executive director Suzi Fox at 941232-1405.

as of Sept. 19, amitW had identified 421 nests, 557 false crawls and 211 hatched nests on ami.

Plant clinic rolls into Robinson

The Master Gardeners are growing awareness with a mobile plant clinic that will roll into Robinson Preserve at 9 a.m. Sunday, Sept. 26.

The Manatee County Extension Service operates the local Master Gardener program. The service is an educational program that brings University of Florida resources to the county.

The clinic will be open 9 a.m.-noon in Robinson, 1704 99th St. NW., Bradenton, for people to seek advice and information about plants.

For more information, call the extension service at 941-722-4524.

Milestones

The Islander welcomes photographs and notices of milestones. Submit announcements and photographs to news@islander.org.

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Sept. 22, 2021 THE ISLANDER | islander.org page 19 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

By Lisa Neff

About those oaks

Keyword: Anna Maria.

Keyword: Treehouses.

I routinely search the archives of the Manatee County Public Library for island-related historical photographs to share with readers.

I use keywords and categories and usually come up with something interesting, or at least relevant, for the “looking back” feature in The Islander.

Sometimes I come up with a neff “wow!” or a “what?” find.

This past week, for example, I was curious whether any archival photographs of “treehouses” on the island exist in the library’s history bank.

I found none, but there is a nifty image of a treehouse built in 1924 in a large live oak in the 1600 block of Third Avenue East in Bradenton. The structure featured winding stairs and a porch and contained two couches, a gas stove, running water and electric lights.

Often one search will lead to another and I looked next for “live oak” and quickly came across a transcript of an August 1984 interview with Anna Maria Cobb Riles, a member of one of the early pioneering families

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The interviewer asked about the island landscape in the early part of the 20th century. “What did the pristine state look like? Were there a lot of pine trees?”

“No,” Riles replied. “There were not very many pine trees on Anna Maria Island. There were some at the north end and they were cut down and taken away. …

“But there were other trees, oak groves, with these oak groves just about every mile, lonesome mile, all up and down the island. And they were beautiful things.

They were slaughtered. The most you see of an oak grove now is where the school is.”

There are fewer oaks at Anna Maria Elementary since Riles spoke about the trees in 1984 and there are far fewer live oaks, laurels and myrtles across the island than I saw on my arrival just 16 years ago.

About 26 types of oaks — red and white — grow in Florida, providing shelter and food for wildlife, shade and decoration for humans.

Globally, there are about 430 species of oak, including 217 species at risk, according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature Red List of Threatened Species, the world’s most comprehensive inventory of the global conservation status of biological species.

The list includes 112 species classified as critically endangered, endangered or vulnerable; 105 species classified as near threatened; and 31 estimated to be threatened with extinction.

The United States has the third highest number of oak species and the fourth highest number of threatened species due to changing land use and climate, as well as invasive plants and pests.

Thankfully, the oak species found on the island are not on the IUCN Red List.

And yet, if the island’s groves were largely destroyed in the 20th century, do we need a listing to commit to protections in the 21st century?

Life in a live oak treehouse in 1924, e.e. moore had a treehouse built in a live oak on third avenue east in Bradenton. the structure featured winding stairs and a porch and served as a local landmark and tourist attraction until the 1970s, when Bradenton condemned and demolished the structure. But does the live oak remain? islander photo: courtesy manatee county public Library System

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Midway in adult football playoffs, b-ball, golf, horseshoes play on

The next game saw Beach Bums outplay Sandbar 93-44 behind the trio of Skylar Pensyl, Carlton Bennett and Austin Young. Pensyl led scorers with 28 points, while Bennett and Young finished with 25 and 23 points respectively.

Sandbar’s Matt Manger scored 24 points and Matt Briley added 19 points in the loss.

The final game of the night saw Paddy Wagon slip past Slim’s Place by a 77-68 score. Jeremi King scored 18 points and Andy Shown added 17 to lead Paddy Wagon, which also received 13 points from Matthew Stacy in the victory.

Chris Hampton scored 25 points to lead scorers, while AJ Colagiovanni added 17 and Garrett Richelieu finished with 19 in the Slim’s loss.

By Kevin P. Cassidy Islander Reporter

Rain, rain, go away, the community wants to play.

In spite of numerous afternoons of rain, quarterfinal playoff action in the adult flag football league on the field at the Center of Anna Maria Island got started Sept.

16 with TMT doubling up on We The Best Lending.

We The Best Lending bested TMT Cassidy 28-14 behind four touchdown passes from Chase Richardson, including three to Jonathan Soultatos. Soultatos also had a huge defensive game, finishing with a sack and an interception. Dom Otteni completed the scoring in the victory with a touchdown reception.

Keith McQuillen and Connor Haughey each threw a touchdown pass to lead the TMT offense, which also received touchdown catches from Kari Hawkins and Maddie Russo in the loss.

The second game of the evening saw Ray’s Ramblings eliminate Cortez Deep Sea Fishing 21-6 behind a touchdown pass and a touchdown run from quarterback Ryan Moss. Kari Stephens added a touchdown run and Peggy Smith added a touchdown catch, two interceptions and a safety.

Blake Balais connected with Cole Carter for a TD to lead Cortez Deep Sea Fishing in the loss.

Catalyst cruised past Beach Bums by a 20-12 score behind two TD passes from Jon Moss to Greg Moss and Brent Moss. Greg Moss provided the winning margin with a pick-six interception.

JB Shuck and Jaret Rojas both contributed touchdown passes in the loss, while Cruz Rodriguez and Jacob Robertson added TD grabs.

TBT edged Sandbar Restaurant 24-19 in the last game of the evening behind a pair of touchdown passes from Brandon Kull and a touchdown pass and two touchdown grabs from Matt Briley. Zach Routh added a touchdown catch and an extra point to round out the scoring for TBT. Matt Manger threw three TD passes, including two to Bradley Coleman to lead Sandbar, which also received a touchdown catch from Anthony Mannino in the loss.

Matt Briley of TMT sets up for an onthe-run pass down the field Sept. 16, as Bradley Coleman of We The Best Lending runs in to attempt a sack. The score after four quarters was Best Lending, 28, TMT 14.

Islander Photo: Tyler Brewer

Luke Plummer and Elle Blackburn warm up Sept.

7 during soccer practice at the community center.

They play for coach Jesse Griffin on the Gulf Drive Cafe White Knights team and both are looking forward to a great fall soccer season. Islander Photo: Courtesy Mom Nicole Plummer

Semifinal action — setting up the championship game — continues at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 23, with We The Best Lending taking on TBT at 6:30 p.m. followed by Catalyst against Ray’s Ramblings

Key Royale golf news Despite the persistent rain, there was a full week of golf on the Key Royale Club links, starting with the men’s modified-Stableford match Sept. 13.

Bill DiMenna fired a plus-4, scoring four points above his average to finish on top of a crowded leaderboard and earn clubhouse bragging rights for the day. Mike Pritchett was a point behind at plus-3, while Mike Gille took third at plus-2.

The women played a nine-hole individual-lownet match in two flights Sept. 14. Ellen Boin fired a 1-under-par 31 to edge Jenny Huibers by a stroke.

Helen Pollock and Jana Samuels tied for third at 3-over-par 35.

Janet Razze lapped the field in Flight B with a 4-under-par 28. Jackie Gorski was alone in second at even-par 32, while Terry Westby finished in third with a 6-over-par 38.

The members played a nine-hole shamble, a game that cards the two best scores from the foursome on Sept. 16.

The team of Herb Clauhs, John Kolojeski, Jana Samuels and Quentin Talbert combined on an even-par 64 to earn clubhouse bragging rights for the day. The team of Nelson Eagle, Rich Salzbury, Dave Richardson and Debbie Richardson were two strokes back in second place.

Center basketball continues in the gym After four weeks of action, Paddy Wagon and Beach Bums are atop the standings of the adult basketball league at the center with matching 3-1 records.

Slim’s Place, Solid Rock Construction and Moss Builders follow, while Blue Lagoon and Sandbar are in search of victories.

Action Sept. 6 fell short as Moss Builders earned a win via forfeit when Blue Lagoon fell short of play- And from the Anna Maria horseshoe pits ers.

For the first time in three weeks of twice a week play, a playoff was required to determine the champion at the Sept. 15 games at the Anna Maria City Hall horseshoe pits.

Steve Doyle along with Tom Skoloda and Jerry Disbrow both forged 3-0 records in pool play, but it was all Doyle in the playoff. He cruised to a 21-10 victory over Skoloda and Disbrow to earn bragging rights for the day.

The Sept. 18 games also saw a two-team playoff as Doyle and Bill Silver squared off against the Disbrow brothers, Jay and Jerry. The Disbrows jumped out to an early lead, but Doyle and Silver clawed their way back into the match. Trailing 20-19, Silver threw what appeared to be a game-winning double ringer, but Jerry Disbrow answered with a double ringer of his own and the brothers went on to win by a 23-19 score to earn the day’s championship.

Play gets underway at 9 a.m. Wednesdays and Saturdays at the Anna Maria pits. Warmups begin at 8:45 a.m. followed by random team selection.

There is no charge to play and everyone is welcome.

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Sept. 22, 2021 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 21 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Follow diving birds, bait schools for mackerel hookups

By Capt. Danny Stasny Islander Reporter

As the fall bait run begins in Tampa Bay, you can count on exceptional fishing to take place around Anna Maria Island.

Vast schools of bait will filter in and out of Tampa Bay the next few weeks, attracting many predatory species.

Spanish mackerel — the most predominant species you’ll encounter — are beginning to show in good Stasny numbers.

If you haven’t been part of a Spanish mackerel feeding frenzy, then you need to make a point of getting out there to target the fish.

There’s a certain energy that occurs when targeting macks. It consumes the senses.

The visual aspect is a thrill, just watch the highspeed predators slash through the bait schools, sometimes skyrocketing 5 feet out of the water in pursuit.

The sounds of the seagulls and terns and the whoosh of the pelicans overhead in preparation of a dive into the bait schools creates a crescendo.

The blacktip sharks patrol the outer edges of the bait schools, biting the macks in half adds a level of urgency.

The explosions on the surface of the water surrounding the boat as you stand in awe of Mother Nature’s circle of life are awe-inspiring.

If you fancy high-adrenaline, light-tackle sport fishing, then the mack bite should more than satisfy.

If you’re going out to target the silver torpedoes, there are a few things to bear in mind.

For tackle, most anglers like using medium-light spinning gear consisting of a 7-7 1/2-foot rod with a reel size of 2500 to 4000 spooled with 15- or 20-pound braid. On the terminal end, you want to add at least a 4-foot leader of 30-40 pound fluorocarbon and finalize it with whatever tackle fits your purpose.

Spanish mackerel — when feeding — aren’t picky, so live bait and artificials work well.

If using live bait, a 2/0 Eagle Claw extra-long shank hook is a must. Mackerel have razor-sharp teeth, so you’ll need that long hook.

If using artificials, a range of choices are available. The Clark spoon and Gotcha plugs are favorites among mackerel fishers, although they will run you $4 or $5 each. And, keep in mind, when mackerel fishing, you’re going to get cut off — and frequently, too.

Taking that into consideration, a lot of mackerel fishers use small jigs, such as crappy or speck rigs.

The lures are effective, more cost efficient and come in a variety of colors. The most popular are white, chartreuse and hot pink. No matter your choice, carry an ample supply.

Anna Maria Island Tides

Date

Sept 22 Sept23 Sept24 Sept25 Sept26 Sept27 Sept28 Sept29

AM

HIGH

1:02a 1:17a 1:36a 2:00a 2:29a 3:03a 3:45a 4:42a

2.2 1:41p 2.3 2:22p 2.4 3:06p 2.5 3:59p 2.5 5:13p 2.5 ­— 2.5 ­— 2.4 ­—

PM

HIGH

AM

2.3 7:07a 2.2 7:45a 2.0 8:26a 1.9 9:11a 1.7 10:04a — 11:09a — 12:27p — 1:45p

LOW

PM

0.6 7:25p 0.5 7:44p 0.5 8:03p 0.4 8:20p 0.4 8:33p 0.5 ­— 0.5 ­— 0.4 ­—

LOW

1.0 1.2 1.3 1.4 1.5 — — —

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

Moon

Circa 1922 Anglers with cane poles haul in a “mess of mackerel” at the new wooden Cortez Bridge, built in 1921 to connect the mainland to Bradenton Beach.

Islander Photo: Facebook/Brian Haddix

Now you’re geared up, you’re ready to go and the question is: Go where?

This time of year, mackerel should be found wherever you find bait schools. A great place to start is around the fishing piers, including the Rod & Reel and the Anna Maria City piers, which attract loads of bait and macks.

But if pier fishing isn’t your thing, you can try surf casting along the beaches.

If you have a boat, your job is going to be to find the bait. Look for seagulls and terns — indicating bait is present. Structure, such as reefs and wrecks, are good checks, as they typically hold bait.

Now that you’re catching all these macks, what are you going do with them?

The daily bag limit is 15 per person per day and the fish must measure at least 12 inches to the fork of the tail.

Here’s a little advice: You’re not going to get much meat off the ones that measure 12 inches to the fork, so try keeping fish 15 inches or bigger.

Also, mackerel meat is only good for up to 48 hours after it’s been filleted. So unless you’re feeding an army, keeping 15 macks per person is excessive.

It’s best to keep a couple of fish per person at most.

If you can, bleed the fish before you fillet them.

Macks tend to be slightly oily and this technique ensures the meat is at its prime when you take up the fillet knife.

As far as cooking goes, blackened and grilled mackerel can be quite good. They also make an excellent smoked fish dip.

Reporting this week, Jim Malfese at the Rod & Reel Pier says they’re seeing plenty of catch-andSouthernaire Fishing Charters

release redfish caught during the early morning tides.

Pier fishers using live shrimp as bait are hooking into slot-size fish 18-22 inches. The reds require stout tackle, as the angler needs to maneuver them along the barnacle encrusted pilings and under the pier.

Black drum are being caught by anglers using live shrimp as bait. When both reds and black drum are present, it’s a toss-up on which will get the bait first.

Black drum are measuring 15-25 inches.

Another species, catch-and-release snook, are in on the action, although not as frequent as the drums.

Lastly, some mangrove snapper are lurking under the pier and some are going home with anglers for a dinner. Most are in the 12-inch range.

Johnny Mattay of Anna Maria Charters is finding plenty of action fishing in Tampa Bay. On the flats, the catch-and-release trio — snook, redfish and spotted seatrout — are behaving nicely when tempted with live shiners as bait. On the right tides, the bite is consistent.

After catching and releasing plenty of the fish, Mattay is switching tactics and moving to deeper water to fish reefs, wrecks and rock piles.

In such areas, the mackerel are dominating the bite. As quickly as baits are cast into the water, they are being devoured by the macks. The fish are popular for their sheer strength and stamina when on the end of the line and, as a bonus, you can keep some for a fish dinner.

While free-lining shiners for mackerel, hungry mangrove snapper are venturing to the surface in search of a meal. The 12-15 inch snapper put on heck of a fight for their size and make exceptional table fare.

Send high-resolution photos and fishing reports to fish@islander.org.

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biz Supporting locals

By Kane Kaiman

Biking made E-asy To pedal or not to pedal, that is the question.

Everything’s E-Bikes Sales & Rentals features foldable, step-through electric bicycles customers can pedal like a standard bike, pedal with an assist from the 36-volt engine or simply ride like a motorbike at up to 20 mph for a distance of 20 miles.

And, when it comes to tooling around the island, they offer advanKaiman tages over golf carts, Everything’s E-Bikes owner Leslie Garner said Sept. 8.

The e-cycles can take advantage of the bike lane, don’t require a parking space and are a fun way to get around, he said.

Garner delivers the bikes to customers, along with locks, helmets, GPS units, night lights and charging stations.

He also provides a demonstration and written instructions.

For more information, call 813-735-9488 or email leslie.garner@live.com.

Spreading the dough Vincenzo Esposito, owner of Vinny’s Italian Kitchen, 5337 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, continues his cooking legacy — and his penchant for charitable giving.

Since February 2020, when Esposito began setting

Vincenzo esposito shows off the counter in his italian takeout establishment, Vinny’s italian Kitchen, 5337 gulf drive, Holmes Beach, aug. 25. the restaurant has been raising money for the needy since it opened in anna maria almost 13 years ago. islander photo: Kane Kaiman

aside donations for COVID-19 relief for the people of Bagnaia and Viterbo, small villages in Italy, the eatery has raised about $13,000 for charitable causes, he said Aug. 25.

In March, Vinny’s raised $3,815 for Alex Sims, a child with ties to Anna Maria Island who suffers from IPEX syndrome, an immune system disorder, and is seeking a bone marrow transplant.

The restaurant’s most recent act of charity came Aug. 25, when Esposito sent 200 euros to a family in Bagnaia, his hometown, for schoolbooks.

All the proceeds from Vinny’s T-shirt, coffee mug and shopping bag sales go to the restaurant’s charitable fund.

But the owner isn’t the only generous member of the business — the staff contributes from their tips.

Esposito said his dedication to helping those in need comes from his upbringing.

The chef, who has been preparing Italian cuisine since he was a child in Bagnaia, grew up on the receiving end of charity.

“We didn’t have steaks. We didn’t have fish. We

ate what was available. And sometimes it was just bread and cheese,” Esposito said.

“Everybody that helped, that little bit, it was a big help,” he said. “And my belief was always: If God gives us the possibility to bless someone else, why not?”

Vinny’s — closed for a break to give the staff a break and allow Esposito to visit Bagnaia — reopened Sept. 20.

Though the focus of his trip was to spend time with family, Esposito said he also carried charitable donations to people in the area.

For more information, visit italiankitchenami.com or call 941-896-9754.

To learn more about Alex Sims, visit cotaforteamalexs.com or call 941-527-1403.

Locals supporting locals Locals Realty is sponsoring an island shopping crawl Sept. 30-Oct. 2.

“September, for boutique owners, is a really slow month on the island. So we thought it would be a good opportunity to get people from in town to come out to the island and shop,” Locals Realty managing broker Jessica Adair said Sept. 16.

The crawl includes stops at 10 boutique businesses offering clothing, jewelry and other keepsakes.

Beginning Sept. 27, participants can pick up crawl cards at Locals Realty, 9801 Gulf Drive, Suite 5, Anna Maria. Crawl participants then can visit the businesses and have their cards “marked.”

Participants can return the cards to Locals Realty to be eligible for a grand-prize drawing for a gift basket and two runner-up baskets.

The grand prize includes items donated by the businesses — from koozies to beachwear and jewelry — valued at $1,000.

Locals Realty is open 9 a.m.-4 p.m. MondayFriday.

For more information, visit the “events” tab on the Locals Realty Facebook page or call 941-3005469.

Building beach bodies Former Connecticut residents Kirk and Melissa Reed have established a one-stop fitness shop at 107 pLeaSe, See BiZ, page 23

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don’t forget!

You can read it all online at islander.org

Sept. 22, 2021 THE ISLANDER | islander.org page 23 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

AmI ToURISm: endless Season Delta variant impacts late-summer travel By amy V.t. moriarty islander reporter

What goes up must come down.

In the case of rebounding tourism in the first half of 2021, the ease of finding outdoor activities and dining options on Anna Maria Island and elsewhere in Florida combined with faith in the COVID-19 vaccines prompted record-setting numbers of AMI-bound travelers.

June 11, for example, saw more than 2 million connecticut transplants Kirk and melissa reed pose Sept. 17 in the studio that houses the couple’s people pass through TSA PreCheck at the SarasotaBradenton International Airport for the first time since businesses, crossfit anna maria and reed fitness March 2020. and physical therapy, 107 Seventh St. n., BradenThe Transportation Security Administration 2 milton Beach. they opened in mid-July. islander photo: lion mark was passed a few more times, including two toni Lyon days in early September, according to Anne Wittine of Quantitative Research Data Services.

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As part of a monthly poll of travelers conducted BiZ from page 22

by Wittine’s staff, questions about people’s confidence Seventh St. N., Bradenton Beach. in traveling to Florida showed “a significant drop-off They opened CrossFit Anna Maria and Reed FitThey moved to Bradenton in June to escape the ness and Physical Therapy under the same roof in snow, live a more laidback lifestyle and spend more mid-July.

What sets the businesses apart is their ability to time with their children.

CrossFit, a training regimen that features unique offer personalized training and therapy, Kirk Reed movements and a new workout every day, is more said Sept. 17.

Class sizes at many CrossFit gyms can swell to fun than conventional exercise routines, Kirk Reed more than 25 people but they cater to groups of five said.

“It’s just a whole different experience. It’s just so or six.

“It’s small enough where I can talk to everybody much more fun and effective than what most people and make sure everybody’s set, to make sure every- are doing,” he said.

For more information about CrossFit Anna Maria, body’s safe to get a good workout and have a good visit crossfitannamaria.com or call 203-525-3005. time,” Kirk Reed said.

For more information about Reed Fitness and He teaches one-hour CrossFit classes at 6 a.m.

Monday, Wednesday and Friday; at 7:30 a.m. Tues- Physical Therapy, visit reedfitnessandphysicaltherapy.com or call 203-512-3749. day and Thursday and 9:30 a.m. Monday-Friday.

Melissa offers afternoon appointments for physi- A shot at the big chamber awards The Manatee County Chamber of Commerce cal therapy and personal training.

The Reeds are accredited CrossFit coaches Small Business of the Year Awards is the Oscars who owned a gym in Connecticut for more than 10 for little businesses, and two island entities have an opportunity to bring home the “gold” this year. years.

in positivity … but people are still willing to travel.”

In June, Wittine’s research showed 50.3% of people polled about their comfort and confidence traveling to the area in the immediate future was positive.

In July, as the severity of the Delta variant became more known, that number dipped to 40.1%.

In August, it fell to 28%.

When the research questions turned to optimism about “how close things are to getting back to normal,” 38.6% said it’s close.

When asked about interest in traveling to Florida, 30.3% said they were unlikely to do so.

As Wittine’s research turned to proprietors of short-term accommodations, it showed more people and groups canceling reservations and “slowing due to COVID” out of fear of the climbing rate of positive Delta cases in Florida.

Proprietors reported a lot of last-minute bookings and that they were “busy with sports groups but just as many cancellations due to Delta Variant,” according to Wittine.

Still, they also reported October and November currently look awesome, Wittine said.

In other matters TDC members unanimously approved recommending county commissioners allocate up to $2 million for resort tax spending, including: • Expansion of the Bradenton Area Convention Center, 1 Haben Blvd., Palmetto; • Possible parking deck on the west side of the convention center; • Addition of locker rooms and multipurpose rooms at the Premier Sports Campus in Lakewood Ranch, as well as a parking lot.

The next meeting of the TDC, which recommends spending to the county board from the 5% bed tax on accommodations of six months or less, will be at 9 a.m.

Monday, Oct. 18, at the Manatee County Administration Building, 1112 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton.

The TDC includes County Commissioner Misty Servia as chair, vice-chair Vernon DeSear, Bradenton Mayor Gene Brown, Palmetto Mayor Shirley Groover Bryant, Jack Rynerson, Ed Chiles, Eric Cairns, Jiten Patel, and Rahul Patel.

For more information about the TDC, call Monica Luff at 941-729-9177 or email monica.luff@bacvb. com.

The chamber announced Sept. 14 the Anna Maria Island Privateers — a nonprofit dedicated to promoting and supporting activities for the betterment of youth and the community in Manatee County — and Anna Maria Island Resorts — encompassing Tortuga Inn and Tradewinds Resort in Bradenton Beach — are finalists for the awards.

The awards will be presented at 4 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 16, at the Bradenton Area Convention Center, 1 Haben Blvd., Palmetto.

For more information on the Privateers, visit amiprivateers.memberlodge.org or visit the group’s page on Facebook.

For more information on Anna Maria Island Resorts, 1325 Gulf Drive N., Bradenton Beach, visit annamariaislandresorts.net or call 941-778-6611.

And as always… …Got biz news? Contact Kane Kaiman at kane@ islander.org or call The Islander at 941-778-7978.

WE UNDERSTAND THE VALUE OF EVERY DOLLAR. Reach more than 20,000 people weekly with your ad for as little as $12!

Call 941.778.7978 315 58th St., Holmes Beach

classifieds@islander.org • islander.org

page 24 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Sept. 22, 2021 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

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 Continued

eLectronic LocK for front door. Vacation rentals, $150-$190. orinocomarketing@outlook. com.

antiQue BaBY carriage: Wood and wicker. proceeds benefit moonracer animal rescue. email for photos: moonraceranimalrescue@ gmail.com.

director-driVer SougHt for senior’s group at the annie Silver community center and center of anna maria island. Seeking volunteer senior activity director and van driver for friday outings. contact peg miller, 941-447-5076 or pm3h@ yahoo.com.

cHandeLier: BroWn metaL, hardware, $40, dell keyboards, $10, two bar stools, black/ brown leather seat, stainless-steel, $40, 941920-2494.

antiQue partner deSK: all wood, $500. inquire at the islander office, 315 58th St. Suite J, Holmes Beach. 941-778-7978.

pair niKe roSHe, $35, was $115. aqua/red, size 10, really nice, lightweight, barefoot feel.

941-779-9781.

antiQue office cHairS: circa 1950 from anna maria city Hall. inquire at the islander newspaper, 315 58th St. Suite J, Holmes Beach.

941-778-7978.

BiKeS and tooLS: Schwinn 10-speed, $85, Woodshop tools. 941-356-1456.

FREEBIE ITEMS FOR SALE

WeBer Spirit: tWo burner stainless-steel gas grill. tank not included. cash and carry. $325.

919-760-9209.

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 tollfree 1-866-362-9821. (limited time offer)

10 KW SYncHronouS 3-phase a/c alternator. 220 volts. old but unused. $265. 941-5388460.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Sandy’s Lawn Service Inc. ESTABLISHED IN 1983

Residential & Commercial Full-service lawn maintenance.

Landscaping ~ Cleanups Hauling ~ Tree Trimming.

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, 315 58th St. Suite J, Holmes Beach.

LICENSED & INSURED

Paradise Improvements

941.792.5600

Kitchen and Bath Remodeling Specialist Replacement Doors and Windows

Andrew Chennault

FULLY LICENSED AND INSURED Island References Lic#CBC056755 CBC 1253471

RDI CONSTRUCTION INC. Residential & Condo Renovations Kitchens • Bath • Design Service Carpentry • Flooring • Painting Commercial & Residential

AdoptA-Pet

13-foot dingHY sailboat, needs mast, $50. 813-463-6770.

HELP WANTED fuLL-time LaBorer to accept, catalog, and deliver materials, assist with projects, and site clean-up. reliable, dL. Send resume to info@ coastalife.com a/c SerVice tecH: experience required. must have own tools. full-time with benefits. drug free Workplace. West coast ac, 941-778-9622.

Yogi is a 4-year-old, 30-pound male looking for a fun family to play fetch. To meet this cutie, call Lisa Williams at 941-345-2441 or visit The Islander office in Holmes Beach. For more about pet adoption, visit moonraceranimalrescue.com.

SponSored BY

ANSWERS TO SEPT. 22 PUZZLE

E S U O H S T R A

G N A R M O N E C A S T E R R I C Y C A S H E R O R I E S E X H A A R E A R S S G S T S R E I T U N A U G E T T P S H E S B O E L R U P T I O S H S C A I M T O N A M E D D L I N E

L Y R A R E S T A N L E C B H A E R M I I C O Y N E N A G S

HeLp reScued petS! Volunteer, foster, computer help needed! moonracer animal rescue. email: moonraceranimalrescue@gmail.com.

BOATS & BOATING

Yogi wants to play ball!

S I L E N T L

free gun LocK courtesy of project childsafe, florida fish and Wildlife conservation commission and Holmes Beach police department. pick up at the islander office, 315 58th St. Suite J, Holmes Beach. don’t be sorry, be safe.

PETS

References available • 941-720-7519

A C T A H A I T S P E L A J O H N C L A T R I V A E V E W E N T W A S S I L A W S L I E T O D D T H E A S I N G E H O G W O R E O S C A R E A R N

Wanted: Your oLd cellphone for recycling. deliver to the islander, 315 58th St. Suite J, Holmes Beach.

S A D D L E D H U S H E D

S T E T H O

T R I O D E

N I C H O L A S A R O A R

R I P E N A S C I U N E R L N E R I S O M S N A G U E R N G I S E C T E A T R E L K S Y T N E S N A E R

L A T E G R E A T A C T R E S S

A S L E W O F

D E D A

E R R S

S A S H

I R A E I S S S E I E T H N G O I R A E L B C O O W

L O N G E R

E M E N D S

S I L L S

Y E E S H

O W N E E D

BoutiQue career opportunitY on anna maria island. full-time positions available. experienced salesperson position starting at $18. please, email karsen@islandcabana.com.

diVe SHop retaiL associate position.

We’re hiring a full-time long-term employee who loves diving and is ready to learn all about the dive industry! ami@floridaunderwatersports.com. 941-200-0660.

SeeKing part-time front desk person for a small beach resort on anna maria. Basic computer skills required. must be available to work weekends. please forward resume to: beckyjhardy1@msn.com. reporter Wanted: full- to part-time. print media, newspaper experience required. apply via email with letter of interest to news@islander. org.

KIDS FOR HIRE dependaBLe, reSponSiBLe, fun babysitter for hire. 13 years old, island local. available in June. 941-526-9090.

KidS for Hire ads are free for up to three weeks for island youths under 16 looking for work. the islander, 315 58th St. Suite J, Holmes Beach.

SERVICES need a ride to airports? tampa $65, St. pete, $55, Sarasota, $30. gary, 863-409-5875. gvoness80@gmail.com. iS Your Home or office in need of some cleaning? Well, i’m your girl! Local, reliable, professional! please, give me a call or text, 941-773 -0461. cLeaning: Vacation, conStruction, residential, commercial and windows. Licensed and insured. 941-744-7983. preSSure WaSHing, paVer sealing, driveway, roof, fence, pool area. also, window cleaning.

Licensed and insured. 941-565-3931. iSLand pHotoSHootS WitH gemma. family, children, engagement, commercial. instagram: @ silvernestphoto. 805-570-1415.

Sept. 22, 2021 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 25 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

I S L A N D E R C L A S S I F I E D S SERVICES Continued

HOME IMPROVEMENT Continued

RENTALS Continued

NANNY, BABY/PETSITTING, cleaning, organizing, errands, assistance. 20 years’ experience.

Reliable and trustworthy, local. 805-570-1415.

HANDYMAN AND PAINTING. No job too small. Most jobs just right. Call Richard Kloss. 941-204-1162.

AVAILABLE JANUARY-APRIL: 2BR/1BA stilt home, located west of Gulf Drive.

120 Peppertree Lane, $3,000/month.

Contact:nelsonluis97@gmail.com or 813362-3967.

LOOKING FOR A housecleaner? Look no further.

Sand & Sea Cleaning is the team for you. 941226-2773.

BUSINESS-TO-BUSINESS JD’s Window Cleaning looking for storefront jobs in Holmes Beach.

I make dirty windows sparkling clean. 941-9203840.

LAWN & GARDEN CONNIE’S LANDSCAPING INC. Residential and commercial. Full-service lawn maintenance, landscaping, cleanups, hauling and more! Insured.

941-778-5294.

BARNES LAWN AND Landscape LLC. Design and installation, lawn and landscape services, tree trimming, mulch, rock and shell. 941-7051444. Jr98@barneslawnandlandscape.com.

COLLINS LANDSCAPE LIGHTING: Outdoor lighting, landscaping, irrigation services and maintenance. 941-920-0253.

MJC24373@gmail.com.

SEARAY SPRINKLER SERVICES. Repairs, additions, drip, sprinkler head/timer adjustments. 941-920-0775.

HOME IMPROVEMENT VAN-GO PAINTING residential/commercial, interior/exterior, pressure cleaning, wallpaper. Island references. Bill, 941-795-5100. www.vangopainting.net.

TILE -TILE -TILE. All variations of ceramic tile supplied and installed. Quality workmanship, prompt, reliable, many Island references. Call Neil, 941-726-3077.

GRIFFIN’S HOME IMPROVEMENTS Inc. Handyman, fine woodwork, countertops, cabinets and wood flooring. Insured and licensed. 941-722-8792.

BLINDS, SHUTTERS, SHADES: Motorization. 30 years on AMI. Call Keith Barnett, Barnett Blinds, 941-730-0516.

ISLAND HANDYMAN: I live here, work here, value your referral. Refinish, paint. Just ask. JayPros.

Licensed/insured. References. Call Jay, 941-9622874.

HAMMERED HOMES: (SAVING homes since 1984.) Handyman services, renovations. Free estimates and consulting. Call before making decision, save money. 941-778-3206.

HANDYMAN AND CLEANING services. Move-ins and outs. Affordable. Call Fred, 941-356-1456.

SCREEN REPAIR: WINDOW and door screening available: standard, sun block, pet, no-seeums. Call Lane, 941-705-5293.

LONG-TIME AMI resident sold home. Seeking annual rental. House, apartment, studio or share.

Retired widower. 703-599-4421.

ANNUAL RENTAL: BEAUTIFUL furnished 3BR/2BA plus den with views of Palma Sola Bay, $4,000/month. First, last and security. Wagner Realty, 941-778-2246.

REAL ESTATE

HOLLANDS PAINT, DRYWALL and handyman services: Interior/exterior paint, drywall repair, wall/ceiling textures, stucco repair, pressure washing. Over 25 years’ experience. All work guaranteed. References.

Licensed/insured. Call Dee, 256-337-5395.

WINNIE MCHALE, REALTOR, 941-504-6146.

Rosebay International Realty Inc. You need an aggressive and experienced Realtor in today’s market! Selling island homes, Sarasota and Bradenton areas. Multi-million-dollar producer! “Selling Homes - Making Dreams Come True.”

API’S DRYWALL REPAIR: I look forward to servicing your drywall repair needs. Call 941-5248067 to schedule an appointment for me to come out and look at your job.

ASSISTANCE OFFERED. SAVVY and experienced. Marketing, graphic design, photography, listing, farming, CRM, web, print, social.

805-570-1415.

SCREENS RIPPED OR old? Window and door screen repair. Standard, sun-block, pet, no-seeum. Call Lane, 941-705-5293.

RENTALS ANNA MARIA GULF beachfront vacation rentals.

One- two- and three-bedroom units, all beachfront. www.amiparadise.com. 941-778-3143.

VACATION RENTAL: DOUBLE-wide mobile home. 2BR/2BA, eight miles to beach. 55-plus community, $600/week. Pool and clubhouse.

Real Estate Mart, 941-356-1456.

ANNUAL: 105 SEVENTH St, South B, Bradenton Beach. 3BR/2BA $3,000 1st, last, $1,000 deposit. Mike Norman Realty, 3101 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach.

ANNUAL: 4440 123rd St. Ct. W. Cortez. 1BR/1BA furnished $1,500/month plus utilities first/ last, $1,000 deposit. Mike Norman Realty 941-7786696.

LOOKING FOR AN EARLY BIRD? You can read Wednesday’s classifieds on Tuesday at islander.org. And it’s FREE!

NW BRADENTON: UPDATED 3BR/2BA, garage.

No HOA fees. Plus, free-standing 1,000 sf building for RV or boat storage, workshop or rental income. $450,000. Call agent direct. Fred Flis, Real Estate Mart, 941-356-1456.

Landscape Design Lawn Care Cleanups Stone Paths Licensed and Insured

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

PLEASE, TAKE NOTE!

CLASSIFIED AD ORDER g nder.or

___________ isla___________ t a e n onli ___________ ___________ ____________ ___________ ___________ ___________ s d a d sifie s a l ____________ ___________ ___________ ___________ ___________ ___________ c e Plac ____________ ___________ ___________ ___________ ___________ ___________ ____________ ___________

___________

___________

___________ ___________ ___________ ___________

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) _________

_________

_________

_________ or TFN start date: ______________

Amt. pd _________________ Date _____________ Ck. No.� _________ Cash � _______ By _________ Credit card payment: �

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 315 58th St., Suite J Holmes Beach FL 34217

E-mail: classifieds@islander.org Fax toll free: 1-866-362-9821 Phone: 941-778-7978

The Islander has moved!

The “best news on AMI” has purchased and relocated to a condo office. We’re now across from HB City Hall and behind the Ugly Grouper.

You’ll find us at 315 58th St., Holmes Beach. So stop by and check out our new, groovy digs.

We’re ready to serve you!

Same phone and email.

The island’s best news for 29 years!

941.778.7978 news@islander.org

Page 26 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Sept. 22, 2021 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

BizCal

Weekend work The Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce will return to Anna Maria with Bayfest in mid-October and the chamber is lining up volunteers for assignments at the event. For more information, contact the chamber at 941-778-1541.

Islander File Photo

compiled bY KANE KAIMAN

AMI Chamber This week

Thursday, Sept. 23 5 p.m. — Business card exchange, Compass Hotel, 12324 Manatee Ave. W., Perico Island.

Save the dates

PropertyWatch

Carol Bernard

Island real estate transactions

1603 Gulf Drive #33 Tradewinds, Bradenton Beach, a 380 sf, 1bed/1bath condo built in 1969 sold 08/19/21 by Schmitt to Beach Dream Vacations for $285,000; list $299,000.

215 82nd St., Holmes Beach, a 824sf, 2bed/2bath home on a 8,102 sq ft lot built in 1954 sold 08/12/21

by North Shore Cottage LLC to ICN Holmes LLC for $899,000; list $899,000.

2311 Ave. C #300, Bradenton Beach, a 1,603 sf, 3bed/2bath pool home on a 5,578 sq ft lot built in 2009 sold 08/18/21 by Island Nautilus LLC to US & G Estate Corp for $900,000; list $998,000.

208 55th St., Holmes Beach, a 1,453 sf, 2bed/3bath pool home on a 7,950 sq ft lot built in 1964 sold 08/16/21

by AMI Holdings LLC to Romah for $1,300,000; list $1,300,000.

519 69th St., Holmes Beach, a 2,022sf, 4bed/4bath pool home on a 9,692 sq ft lot built in 1971 sold

MIKE NORMAN REALTY

08/17/21 by Taylor to Pearl Island Prop LLC for $1,660,000; list $1,745,000.

616 Hampshire Lane, Holmes Beach, a 2,833 sf, 4bed/3bath pool home on a 9,975 sq ft lot built in 1969 sold 08/14/21 by Erickson to Mann for $2,175,000; list $1,860,000.

209 Bay Blvd., Anna Maria, a 2,303,sf, 4bed/4bath pool home on a 10,450 sq ft lot built in 2012 sold 08/18/21 by Rysal to Lars Investment Prop Two LLC for $2,375,000; list $2,700,000.

2200 Ave. B, Bradenton Beach, a 3,126 sf, 7bed/8bath pool home on a 5,001,sq ft lot built in 1950 sold 08/05/21 by 2200 Avenue B LLC to Long/Wylie for $2,425,000; list $2,495,000.

104 Fifth St. S., Bradenton Beach, a 3,134 sf, 7bed/8bath pool home on a 4,901 sq ft lot built in 2020 sold 08/17/21 by 104 5th St S LLC to Varacallo for $2,700,000; list $2,865,000.

214 Oak Ave., Anna Maria, a 3,125 sf, 4bed/5bath home on a 10,655 sq ft lot built in 2020 sold 08/17/21

by Manatee Lookout LLC to 214 Oak LLC for

EST. 1978

Oct. 14, member luncheon, Slicker’s Eatery, Cortez.

Oct. 15-16, Bayfest, Pine Avenue, Anna Maria.

Oct. 28, business card exchange, hosted by the Anna Maria Island Privateers and Slicker’s Eatery, Slicker’s Eatery, Cortez.

Fees may apply for events.

RSVP for the networking events by contacting the chamber at 941-778-1541 or info@amichamber.org.

Other events Save the dates Oct. 22, Longboat Key Chamber of Commerce Golf Tournament & Ball Drop, Longboat Key Club, Longboat Key. Fees may apply for events.

For more LBK Chamber information, contact the chamber at 941-383-2466.

$3,585,000; list $3,600,000.

523 56th St., Holmes Beach, a 3,485 sf, 4bed/5bath pool home on a 11,879 sq ft lot built in 2021 sold 08/06/21 by SWM Realty LLC to Wilson AMI LLC for $5,000,000; list $5,250,000.

Compiled by Island Real Estate staff. Island Real Estate sales professionals can be reached at 941-7786066, islandreal.com

Business news

Does your business celebrate achievements? Maybe you’re new in business or your staff deserves kudos.

Submit your information to news@islander.org.

MORGAN LEWIS REALTY

413 Pine Ave. Anna Maria

Decades of island experience … Buying!

Selling! Building!

Consulting!

Call Mark, 941-518-6329 morganlewisrealty@gmail.com BK620023 Mark Kimball CGC58092

Serving Anna Maria Island since 1971

JUST 4 HOUSES TO THE BEACH

Full Time Professional Agents

Premier location in the City of Anna Maria on the corner of Elm and Gulf Drive. Oversized 102-by-105-foot lot with current duplex structure and large pool. Loads of future potential! $2,775,000

Mike Norman Realty

SALES * RENTALS

800-367-1617 941-778-6696 31O1 GULF DR HOLMES BEACH INC www.mikenormanrealty.com sales@mikenormanrealty.com

Chantelle Lewin

Broker Associate Licensed since 1983

Property Watch Provided by:

When it comes to buying or selling your home, Please, CALL ME FIRST! LISTING INVENTORY IS LOW! Let my 30-plus years of experience work for you.

—

Chantelle

941.713.1449

WWW.CHANTELLELEWIN.COM

ÓÓ£ÇÊ Õ vÊ À ÛiÊUÊ À>`i Ì Ê i>V

Mike Norman Realty INC OFFERING THE BEST SELECTION OF SALES & RENTALS ON ANNA MARIA ISLAND SINCE 1978 www.mikenormanrealty.com 31o1 Gulf Drive, Hholmes Beach 800-367-1617 | 941-778-6696

AMI SUN - COLOR - 2X2 165630 09-15-2

RELEASE DATE: 9/19/2021

New York Times Sunday Magazine Crossword

Sept. 22, 2021 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 27 No. 0912 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

GO UP IN SMOKE

1

BY GRANT THACKRAY / EDITED BY WILL SHORTZ

55 Food packaging reassurance 56 Good ‘‘Wheel of Fortune’’ buy for REVERSE

104 Serenade 1 Impersonate 105 ‘‘____ Pal,’’ early episode of ‘‘The 6 Bump on a log Jetsons’’ 11 Get into one’s 108 Shrinks birthday suit ENGINEER 109 1980 event in 16 Fruit drinks 57 Sold (for) Washington 20 Home of the isle of 59 Toward the back 111 Be completely candid Tortuga 114 Gryffindor, Slytherin, 21 ‘‘____ often costs too 60 Where dominoes were invented Hufflepuff or much’’: Emerson Ravenclaw 62 Rule 22 Word before rock or 64 Jazz guitarist 117 It may be taken in by football Montgomery a traveler 23 Song word repeated 66 Some U.N. officers, 119 Half of sei after ‘‘Que’’ for short 120 Treat thought to 24 Charming sort? be stamped with 26 Olympics projectiles 67 Super Bowl LV champ symbols of the 68 Took a swing, say 27 People in charge: Knights Templar 70 Basketball box score Abbr.

121 ‘‘We ____ please’’ column 28 ____ Lingus 74 Addiction-treatment 123 Within arm’s reach 29 Lucy’s last name on locale 128 Something ‘‘I Love Lucy’’ commonly left in an 76 Leadoff selections?

31 Like gasoline operating room 77 Something to file nowadays 129 Going by 78 French article 33 30-year host of late130 Where the Volta night TV 79 Sweet pea River flows 37 Legal field concerned 81 Volkswagen model 131 Tea go-with with long-term care inits.

132 Pull down 39 Commotion 82 Give wrong 133 Those opposite the information 40 Televangelist Joel center and guards, 83 Boring tool 42 Prima ballerina in N.F.L. lingo 85 Emmy-winning 46 Some team 134 More teed off journalist Finch competitions 87 Website with a Seller 135 Scattered 49 The ‘‘e’’ in Genoa?

Handbook 50 With 97-Across, DOWN emerge reborn . . . or 91 ‘‘How ____ . . . ’’ 1 Sounds at a sauna what the ends of five 92 Encrypted URL Across answers in component 2 Limit this puzzle do?

94 Red-handed, say 3 20-20, e.g.

52 ‘‘Gangsta Lovin’’’ 96 Make haste 4 Hit TV show created rapper, 2002

by Donald Glover 97 See 50-Across 53 Yoga-class instruction 5 Something close to a 99 Brand that stylizes colonel’s heart? its name with a Online subscriptions: Today’s lowercase second 6 ‘‘Today’’ competitor, puzzle and more letter for short Answers: than 4,000 past puzzles, 100 What a button on an 7 — nytimes.com/crosswords page 24 ($39.95 a year). armrest may control 8 Those against

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Grant Thackray (rhymes with ‘‘daiquiri’’) recently moved to Los Angeles from Oregon, “hopefully to find a job in animation — either storyboarding or character design.’’ He started constructing crosswords after seeing the 2006 documentary ‘‘Wordplay’’ and thinking, I could do that. The idea for this one came while he was stocking wood for a campfire. It’s Grant’s ninth Times puzzle and third Sunday. — W.S.

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55 Present-day saint?

58 Surprise ending 59 Sparkling-wine variety 61 Scolded, as in a library 63 Big name in nail polish 65 — 69 Drive 70 Sets aside 71 Popped in for just a moment, perhaps 72 The Ikea logo shares the colors of its flag

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93 The St. Lawrence River’s misnamed ____ Islands 95 Far from friendly 98 Fatigued over time 99 Set of rules popularized by ‘‘How I Met Your Mother’’ 101 Doctor’s orders, maybe 102 Best ____ 103 Shaving brand 106 ‘‘Let me get this out . . . ’’ 107 Lead-in to -scope 110 Small lab bottle

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FOR SALE

JUST SOLD

Bimini Bay This exceptional custom-built home offers 80 feet of panoramic waterfront overlooking Bimini Bay. This residence is island life at its finest. $5,250,000

NDING

PE CONTRACT

Just Listed!

Custom designed 4BD/3.5BA waterfront home at north end of Anna Maria! Carriage house, heated pool/spa, boat dock, lift and so much more! $3,895,000

$( / (. (( +$

FOR SALE

Shell Point Condominium Panoramic views of the bay captivate you upon entering into this 2 BD/2BA condo on Holmes Beach! $499,900

Triplex Triplex directly across the street from the beach with a great rental history. Peeks of the Gulf, comes turnkey with future bookings in place. $1,095,000

FOR SALE

FOR SALE

Pine Avenue!

Great investment opportunity! Prime commercial/residential on Pine Avenue!

Steps to shops, restaurants, and a short walk to the beaches! $1,795,000

Pelican Harbour & Beach Club 2BD/2BA in the much desired Pelican Harbour & Beach Club. $449,900

NDING

PE CONTRACT

Canalfront home 2BD/2BA in the much desired north end neighborhood of Anna Maria. Short walk to shops, restaurants and beaches! $1,395,000

PENDING T C A R T N O C

Beachy Cottage!

Two short blocks to the Gulf of Mexico beaches. Spacious lot for a pool and weekly rentals are permitted! $769,000

' .( ( )'

Page 28 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Sept. 22, 2021 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................