The Islander Newspaper E-Edition Wednesday, May. 20, 2020

#aMitogether

VOLUME 28, NO. 30

MAY 20, 2020 FRee

the Best news on anna Maria island Since 1992

astheworldterns are walking the tightrope. 6 Memorial day details, 2. coVid-19 curve lessons. 4 election qualifying draws near for island hopefuls. 4

Meetings. 4 ugly grouper wins pier lease bid. 5

Opinions. 6 10-20 YEARS AGO

Looking back. 7

Gathering. 8 St. Bernard, crossPointe open for services.

Obituaries. 9

GoodDeeds. 9 Happenings community announcements, activities. 9-10

AmE NEWS

11

Holmes Beach revisits scooter ordinance. 12 Bradenton Beach shifts boatlift location. 13

Streetlife. 14 county opens public beach parking. 15

RoadWatch. 15 NESTING NOTES 16 turtle watch paces the race.

Parts of preserve to close for expansion work. 16

Home-schooled on sea turtles. 17 atlantic hurricane season begins early. 18 adult soccer returns to center pitch. 18 the silver king runs in local waters. 19 CLASSIFIEDS. 20

NYT puzzle. 23

#AMItogether

Island businesses charge up for ‘reopening’

islander.org

By ryan Paice islander reporter

Is the glass half empty or half full?

Gov. Ron DeSantis announced May 15 that the state would enter “full phase 1” of reopening at half capacity for restaurants, retailers, museums, libraries, fitness centers and other operations during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“The American people never signed up for a perpetual shelter in place,” DeSantis said in a televised news conference.

The phase 1 reopening was set for May 18, as The Islander went to press.

After a monthlong closure of nonessential businesses and tight limits on essential operations, restaurants opened dining rooms and retailers opened shops to 25% capacity May 4, in partial implementation of phase 1.

Beginning May 18, restaurants were allowed double capacity with social distancing and encouragement to utilize outdoor seating.

Barber shops, hair and nail salons were allowed to reopen May 11, but only 10 people are allowed in a business and they must maintain social distancing.

Fitness centers, allowed to open May 18, must adhere to social distancing guidelines, as well as requirements for sanitization.

a group crosses Bridge Street in Bradenton Beach May 16 after gov. ron deSantis allowed reopening of restaurants and retail stores. islander Photo: ryan Paice

“Bar areas” in restaurants were to remain closed, and owners were encouraged to adopt a reservation-only business model or call-ahead seating to manage interior spaces.

Bars and nightclubs remained closed.

DeSantis, during a news conference May 15, reviewed what’s ahead with phase 2, including reopening schools and bars, allowing gatherings of up to 50 people while adhering to social distancing guidelines and increasing restaurant capacity.

So with beaches and businesses opening, visitors were returning to Anna Maria Island, resulting in foot traffic on Bridge Street in Bradenton Beach, Pine Avenue in Anna Maria and the shopping centers in Holmes Beach, including heavy vehicle traffic on the bridges and Gulf Drive and some parking problems.

Holmes Beach received complaints that people were parking at businesses and

can be included.

Businesses also would be permitted to erect tents in outdoor dining and retail areas, as well as ignore setbacks for the temporary placement of equipment.

The ordinance states that the commission “desires to promote safer operational standards for local food establishments, while also helping local businesses as Florida begins its economic recovery from COVID-19.”

The policy would remain in place for the duration of Gov. Ron DeSantis’ Executive Order 20-112, as well as throughout any subsequent orders limiting occupancy, seating capacity or mandating social distancing requirements for such businesses.

City attorney Ricinda Perry said the city would close public parking spaces on the south side of Bridge Street from the intersection of Bridge Street at Gulf Drive to the westernmost side of 119 Bridge St. She said the parking spaces would be converted into a

“pedestrian walkway” separated from traffic with signage and vertical delineators.

Commissioners unanimously approved spending $800 on delineators.

Mayor John Chappie said caution tape would be tied between delineators to cordon areas from the street.

The cost would be included in the city’s reimbursement request to the Federal Emergency Management Agency for COVID-19

PLeaSe, See Reopening, Page 2

BB makes allowances for streetside dining, retail sales By ryan Paice islander reporter

The lingering COVID-19 pandemic is challenging restaurants and retailers to squeeze out an income going forward.

Bradenton Beach officials want to give struggling businesses an opportunity to make up for lost revenue.

City commissioners voted 5-0 May 14 to approve the first reading of an ordinance lifting land development code restrictions to allow open-air dining and retail sales on private property. It will allow businesses to use adjoining sidewalks and rights of way to expand their sales and seating.

It will allow for more customers than what is allowed under the state’s 50% capacity for indoor seating at restaurants and retail customers as of May 18.

The ordinance would allow a business to convert up to 50% of its on-site parking spaces to outdoor dining and retail space.

However, no handicap-access parking doug Bidwell plays music May 16 for people at the dockside dining area at the Bridge tender inn & dockside Bar, 135 Bridge St., Bradenton Beach. islander Photo: ryan Paice

PLeaSe, See stReetside, Page 3

TDC backs lifting vacation rental ban

By Lisa neff islander editor

“We’re back” is the message heard from many business owners this month.

And Florida is preparing to roll out the “welcome mat” to vacationers.

A state restriction on new short-term vacation rental bookings and new check-ins at vacation homes remained in place May 18, but the Manatee County Tourist Development Council was recommending the county commission seek state permission to lift the restriction at the local level.

“We are working in coordination with the other counties, mainly on the west coast of Florida, so there is a lot of consistency,” Elliott Falcione, executive director of the Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau, told the TDC members May 18.

“So we have a nice, safe experience for our visitors and our residents.”

Travel and lodging were two topics for discussion for the Tourist Development Council, which was holding a virtual meetPLeaSe, See Rentals, Page 3

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Reopening continued from page 1

or requesting social distancing compliance, according to Chappie. “It wasn’t pretty.”

Holmes Beach resident Mike Roaldi emailed The Islander May 13 and said Bridge Street May 9 looked “like Mardi Gras,” with crowds and people practicing “zero social distancing” and wearing “virtually no masks.”

“My point is that there was no sense whatsoever that there was any kind of health crisis,” Roaldi added.

“Nothing was any different than it would have been prior to the lockdown.”

His wife, Carol Roaldi, said despite the hustle and bustle, Bridge Street businesses abided by capacity limits, social distancing and employees wore face coverings.

“While the atmosphere was fun, I felt the merchants were very responsible,” she said.

Officials on AMI had no issues with businesses on capacity or social distancing.

The Roaldis did not oppose the business activity on Bridge Street but instead challenged the continued limits on short-term vacation rentals, which could be changing.

“If we can go to restaurants and walk around outside, why would we not be allowed to stay in a vacation rental?” Carol Roaldi said. “Let’s be fair across the board.”

shopping centers to go to the beach, “and some store owners resorted to towing vehicles,” Holmes Beach Mayor Judy Titsworth wrote May 14 in an email to The Islander.

But Holmes Beach Police Chief Bill Tokajer told The Islander May 15 that, besides the beach and some issues with parking, there wasn’t much excessive activity.

“We had a lot of people here on Saturday and Sunday,” Tokajer said. “But we were not overrun. We still had social distancing.”

In Anna Maria, Mayor Dan Murphy said May 9 “was one of unprecedented traffic and parking issues” due to an influx of visitors.

“The Saturday prior to Mother’s Day was an absolutely colossal day — for lack of a better word — for traffic, congestion and parking,” Murphy told city commissioners May 14. “We issued a record number of parking tickets that day.”

“It reminded me of the old days: Helter-skelter within the city,” he continued.

Bradenton Beach Mayor John Chappie said May 12 that May 9-10 was “extremely busy.”

“Social distancing was tough,” the mayor said. “A lot of people that were asked to (practice social distancing) didn’t really care, which was sad to hear.”

There were incidents of verbal abuse of police officers as they carried out their duties — issuing tickets Vacation rental restrictions The state, as of May 18, continued to prohibit Memorial Day brings changes short-term vacation rental advertising and new checkMemorial Day will be observed Monday, May ins of fewer than 30 days.

25.

The island cities have been issuing citations since Many local government operations will be sus- late March to alleged offenders and reporting property pended for the holiday. owners and management companies to the state.

The fare-free island trolley will operate with limMurphy said law and code enforcement officers ited service on the holiday, but Manatee County Area investigated 198 complaints of suspected vacation Transit will not operate other fixed-route services or rental activity and identified 38 violations. the Handy Bus service.

Three Anna Maria violators refused to comply Residential trash and recycling collection sched- with the state order and were given notices to appear uled for Mondays will be Tuesdays, and collection in court for second-degree misdemeanors. The properservices may be pushed back through the week. ties also were reported to the Florida Department of

Business and Professional Regulation.

At press time, the city was investigating another 10 complaints while another investigation, responding to a house party May 10 in the 100 block of North Bay Boulevard, resulted in the discovery of drugs and guns.

A group of people with open containers of alcohol bound for the party attracted law enforcement attention. At the property, where the owner later said his son had a party that got out of hand, deputies said there were at least 10 parked cars.

The Manatee County Sheriff’s Office report indicated several people jumped out of windows into a canal to flee the deputies, who found two guns, as well as 8 pounds of marijuana and 40 ecstasy pills.

No arrests were made.

In Holmes Beach, Titsworth said the city cited “a few more” rentals the week ending May 17, bringing the city’s violations to “about 10-15.”

One alleged violation involved a lodger who claimed an exemption because he was the owner’s nephew.

Tokajer consulted with the governor’s general council, which confirmed only the owner or an immediate family member were allowed in vacation rentals before the city gave the lodger a notice to appear in court and the property was reported to the DBPR. Tokajer has supported the restriction on vacation rentals but also said he believes it should have applied to hotels, motels, inns and resorts.

Chappie did not respond to a May 14 email from The Islander asking about vacation rental violations.

The situation with rentals could change soon, as “full phase 1” allows county governments to submit a request with a safety plan to the DBPR to allow shortterm vacation rentals.

Meeting early May 18, the Manatee County Tourist Development Council voted to recommend that the county submit a plan that follows public health guidelines to the DBPR to allow short-term rentals.

The county commission would need to approve the recommendation.

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May 20, 2020 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 3 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

rentals continued from page 1

ing May 18, as The Islander went to press.

The TDC is a nine-member advisory committee that makes recommendations to the board of county commissioners on the expenditures of tourist tax revenues. The council had not met since late winter, when members were looking forward to a robust spring season with an influx of vacationers in March and April.

The robust season never materialized.

By mid-March, the tourist economy had begun to shutter and nearly shut down in April, when the state adjusted to “safer-at-home” orders from the governor.

The TDC’s agenda included a presentation of the Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau’s short-term marketing recovery plan by Falcione.

The 44-page PowerPoint presentation outlines how “to return to the market at the proper time, with limited funds” in two phases — June-August and September-December.

The CVB would market to larger cities in the South in the first phase, targeting families with household incomes of more than $100,000 a year. streetside continued from page 1

relief.

The ordinance calls for the city to create an application that requires a business name, proof of insurance, contact information and a sketch of how the business would use its outdoor area.

Perry said the application would be posted to the city’s website, www.cityofbradentonbeach.com. There would be no application fee.

Commissioners reached consensus to create a form before the final reading so businesses can apply for immediate consideration if the ordinance passes.

Violation of the ordinance would result in the business forfeiting the area used for expansion.

A hearing and final reading for the ordinance will be held at noon Thursday, May 21, via teleconference.

People can participate via Zoom by joining the meeting ID 137-695-523 and using access code 072455.

Pandemic state of mind: When asked what one word best describes feelings about travel, many respondents to the Research Data Services survey said “scary” and “dangerous,” but about 15.9% said “eager,” “hopeful,” and even “essential” and “necessary.” Islander Screenshot

In the second phase, the CVB would extend its marketing reach to the Northeast.

The agenda also included reviews of: • Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport’s COVID-19 safety plan, “SRQ Strong: When You’re Ready … We’re Ready,” which states airport personnel must wear face coverings and travelers are strongly encouraged to wear masks and use mobile ticketing.

SRQ installed sanitizing stations and plastic shields, widened security lanes and marked floors for social distancing.

• Research Data Services Inc.’s March visitor profile report showed visitors for October 2019-March 2020 down 0.6% compared with fiscal year 2019 and economic impact down 2.3%.

Comparing month to month, visitors were down 40.2% in March compared to March 2019 and room nights were down 33.7%.

• Research Data Service’s “traveler sentiment survey” was conducted in early May, the same week that county-run public beaches on Anna Maria Island reopened and the governor announced implementation of phase 1 of the state’s reopening plan.

As restaurant dining rooms opened to 25% capacity and people returned to the Gulf shore, RDS used its database of “likely Florida travelers” to check the

pulse on the “pandemic state of mind.”

The survey revealed more than half of respondents canceled a trip because of the coronavirus outbreak but two in five still had future travel plans.

About 18% rescheduled travel for June or July, 14.7% planned to travel in August or September, 26.7% October-December and 40.5% postponed plans to 2021.

Asked how reopening was moving, about 54% said too quickly, 26.6% said “at the right pace” and 13.3% said too slowly.

Asked “how much have you missed travel?” about 60.7% said “very much” and 53.2% said they dreamed “often” about taking a vacation.

Majorities said they’d feel safe “at the moment” with outdoor recreation and travel by car.

But majorities also said they would not feel safe dining at restaurants, attending sporting events, visiting indoor attractions, going to theme parks, taking a cruise, traveling by air or attending a conference.

About going to the beach, 42.7% said they’d feel safe.

People’s biggest concerns about COVID-19 and travel? Health and safety, a second wave of cases with the easing of restrictions and “not being able to return home.”

“What would persuade you it is safe to book a trip?” the researchers asked.

About 72% said, “A vaccine being found.”

Second best: “Things reopening with no increase in cases.”

About the TDC The TDC makes recommendations to the board of county commissioners on the expenditures of tourist tax revenues — a 5% tax on accommodations of six months or less.

The board includes Manatee County Commissioner Misty Servia, Bradenton Mayor Wayne Poston, Palmetto Mayor Shirley Groover Bryant, hoteliers Jiten Patel, Ed Chiles, Eric Cairns and Barbara Baker and citizens Jack Rynerson and Vernon DeSear.

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Election qualifying draws near for island hopefuls

By Ryan Paice Islander Reporter

Voting remains months away, but the gears of the 2020 election process are beginning to turn on Anna Maria Island.

The window for qualifying to run in city elections will open at noon Monday, June 1, for Anna Maria.

Qualifying in Bradenton Beach and Holmes Beach will begin at noon Monday, June 8.

Qualification for all three cities will end at noon Friday, June 12.

To qualify for the ballot for a commission or mayoral seat, candidates must submit paperwork and fees to the Manatee County Supervisor of Elections Office, 600 301 Blvd. W., Bradenton. Qualification fees vary by city, but all must be paid from a campaign bank account.

No personal checks, cash or credit card payments are allowed.

Murphy In Anna Maria, two city commission seats and the mayoral post are up for grabs and, so far, one incumbent has made plans to run for re-election.

Commissioner Amy Tripp told The Islander May 14 she will put her name on the Nov. 3 ballot. Tripp was Short elected to her first full two-year term in 2018 after being appointed to complete the remainder of Commissioner Nancy Yetter’s term earlier that year.

Mayor Dan Murphy wrote in a May 13 email that he had yet to decide if he will run for a fourth term Tripp as mayor.

“I really haven’t had time to adequately discuss the prospect of running again with my wife and with my family,” Murphy wrote. “This job itself requires a serious commitment to our community, especially during these unprecedented times.”

Commissioner Mark Short — appointed in September 2019 to complete the remainder of Commissioner Brian Seymour’s term — did not respond to a May 14 email from The Islander asking if he would seek election or let his term expire.

The mayor earns $19,400 a year, while commissioners receive an annual stipend of $4,800. The election assessment fee was $196 for the mayor’s seat and $48 for a commission seat.

Candidate qualifying

Prospective candidates for commission seats or a mayoral post on Anna Maria Island must: • File a candidate oath; • File a statement of candidacy; • File financial disclosure forms; • Pay a qualifying fee or present certification of petition signatures equal to 1% of the voters as of the last election for the municipality.

In Bradenton Beach, two commission terms are expiring. Residents in Ward 2 and Ward 4 will vote to fill the seats held by Marilyn Maro and Ralph Cole.

Maro, in Ward 2, did not respond to calls left May 12 and May 13 from The Islander. She began serving as a commissioner in December 2016, when she won in a card draw over Anne Leister after a deadlocked vote for a commission-appointed seat.

Cole Ward 2 is bordered by Sarasota Bay and the Gulf of Mexico, and at Canasta Drive and Avenue C and 24th and 25th streets north. The southern border is marked by the southern property line of Runaway Bay Condominium Associates and the Lacosta Maro Condominiums Associates near 17th Street North.

If Maro succeeds at re-election, it would be her final consecutive term on the commission in Bradenton Beach, where term limits restrict officials to three consecutive two-year terms. Neither of the other two island cities have term limits.

Cole, in Ward 4, told The Islander May 12 that he has yet to decide if he will run for his third full twoyear term. Cole was elected to the commission in 2015, but lost the race for re-election in 2017. The commission then appointed him to complete the remainder of John Chappie’s commission term as Chappie was elected mayor in the same election.

Ward 4 is bordered by Ward 2’s southern border, Sarasota Bay, the Gulf of Mexico and Cortez Road.

Anna Maria City Residents elect a mayor and commissioners in May 28, 6 p.m., commission. odd-numbered wards in odd-numbered years and Anna Maria City Hall, 10005 Gulf Drive, 941even-numbered commission wards in 2020 and even- 708-6130, cityofannamaria.com. numbered years.

Note: City hall is closed until further notice. For details on meeting participation, call 941-708-6130.

Meetings

COVID-19 curve lessens, caution still required

By ChrisAnn Allen Islander Reporter

It’s not over yet.

The percentage of positive numbers dropped, but cases still were being confirmed daily in Manatee County as of May 17.

“The effects of the pandemic continue to rise,” Jake Saur, the county’s public safety director, said May 12 during a teleconferenced county commission meeting.

He continued, “That being said, fatalities and the percent of the population testing positive, both Manatee County and the statewide average, is finally trending downward, while the number of new positive cases, are trending slightly upward.”

As of May 17, the rate of positive COVID-19 cases in Manatee County was 8.5% of 9,964 people tested, according to statistics from the Florida Department of Health.

The rate decreased by more than 5% in one week due to increased tested through the second week of May. Statewide, the positive test rate May 17 was 7% of 653,081 people tested.

As of May 17, there were: • 81 fatalities in Manatee County attributed to COVID-19; • 193 people were hospitalized; • More than 457 people who tested positive had recovered.

Residents and staff of long-term care facilities accounted for 52 deaths, totaling 64% of fatalities in Manatee County related to the novel coronavirus.

State-initiated incident management teams were

Commissioners receive a $400 a month stipend, and the election assessment fee for commission candidates is $48.

In Holmes Beach, residents will vote to fill two two-year terms for commission seats and the mayoral post. Two incumbents are looking to defend their positions.

Mayor Judy Titsworth told The Titsworth Islander that she is running for a second term as mayor and already has filed her statement of candidacy. Titsworth first won office as a commissioner in 2012 and served three two-year terms, including as commission chair from 2013 until she was elected mayor in 2018.

Morton Commissioner Pat Morton said he intends to run for re-election and already has a packet of qualifying forms from the SOE. Morton has served on the commission for 17 years and, if he wins re-election, will enter his ninth two-year term.

Rash Commissioner Kim Rash said he remains undecided if he will seek a second two-year term. Rash was first voted onto the Holmes Beach commission in 2018, when he split 72% of the city’s votes with Morton.

The mayor’s pay is $26,600 a year, with $520 added each year based on cost of living adjustments.

Commissioners will each earn $7,690 in annual salary, with $130 added to the salary each year.

The election assessment fee for a mayoral candidate is $240, while the fee for commission candidates is $60.

The deadline to register to vote in the Nov. 3 election is Oct. 5.

For more information — or a candidate packet to run for office — visit the SOE website at votemanatee. com or call 941-741-3823.

assisting facilities the weeks of May 4 and May 11 with infectious disease control, according to Saur.

As of May 17, 140 residents and 66 staff members tested positive, totaling 206 positive cases in LTCFs — 24% of 845 Manatee County cases.

Saur reported May 12 that the county had results on 8,511 tests, exceeding a goal to test 2% of the population — about 8,220 people of 403,253.

He said the short-term goal was to test another 2% of the population, about 16,400 people, by mid-June.

Previously, Saur said a shortage of U.S. Food and Drug Administration-approved tests inhibited the county testing numbers. This changed in late April, when state and local support, including four testing locations provided by Manatee Rural Health Services, helped the county secure 6,100 test kits.

The week of May 11, the health department conducted walk-up testing at Turning Points, a homeless facility in downtown Bradenton, and was encouraging the underserved population to get tested.

Saur said the health department also started assisting management teams by conducting mobile testing on a bus that traveled to long-term care facilities, and was training paramedics to swab so they could test people that could not drive to a test site.

At a positive percentage rate of 9.3%, Saur said the county had dropped below 10%, the state’s target rate for reopening established by the Florida Department of Health.

However, Saur noted some delays in state-reported test results.

“Until the data proves otherwise,” Saur said, it is likely that we will see peaks and valleys, as have occurred in recent weeks.”

Bradenton Beach

May 19, 9:15 a.m., commission.

May 20, 1 p.m., planning and zoning.

May 21, 11 a.m., pier team. CANCELED May 21, noon, commission.

May 26, 10 a.m., commission. CANCELED Bradenton Beach City Hall, 107 Gulf Drive N., 941-778-1005, cityofbradentonbeach.com.

Note: City hall is closed. For details on meeting participation, call 941-778-1005.

Holmes Beach

May 26, 6 p.m., city commission.

Holmes Beach City Hall, 5801 Marina Drive, 941708-5800, holmesbeachfl.org.

Note: City hall is closed. For details on meeting participation, call 941-708-5800.

West Manatee Fire Rescue

None announced.

WMFR administration building, 6510 Third Ave. W., Bradenton, 941-761-1555, wmfr.org.

Note: For details on meeting participation, call 941-761-1555.

Manatee County

May 28, 9 a.m., commission (budget presentation).

Administration building, 1112 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton, 941-748-4501, mymanatee.org.

Note: County buildings are closed. For details on meeting participation, call 941-748-4501.

Of interest

May 20, 3 p.m., Coalition of Barrier Island Elected Officials, Longboat Key Town Hall. TENTATIVE May 25 is Memorial Day. Most government operations will be closed.

Submit info to calendar@islander.org.

May 20, 2020 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 5 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Anna Maria reverses gear on pier negotiations, begins talks

By ChrisAnn Allen Islander Reporter

Let the negotiations begin.

During a May 14 teleconference meeting, Anna Maria commissioners unanimously approved a motion directing Mayor Dan Murphy to begin negotiations with Mike Ross, co-owner of the Ugly Grouper restaurant in Holmes Beach, to lease the restaurant and bait shop at the new Anna Maria City Pier, 101 Bay Blvd.

The new pier was built to replace the pier that opened in 1911 but was closed after damages from Hurricane Irma in September 2017.

Construction on the new pier started in 2018.

Ross and restaurateur Sean Murphy, owner of the Beach Bistro and Eat Here restaurants, and the Doctor’s Office bar, all in Holmes Beach, were the only bidders to respond to the request for proposals in April.

During a teleconferenced meeting May 6, the commission voted to approve Sean Murphy’s bid, but he withdrew his offer May 10, citing concerns with opening a restaurant during a pandemic.

So the mayor, who is not related to Sean Murphy, told commissioners at their May 14 meeting they could either do nothing, accept the Ugly Grouper’s bid and allow the mayor to start negotiating a lease, or repost the RFP at a later date and seek new bids.

City officials hope to have the restaurant and bait shop open in late 2020 or early 2021.

In discussions May 14, Commissioner Amy Tripp said she was leaning toward putting out another RFP, mainly because she suspected the novel coronavirus contributed to a lack of bids.

Commissioner Mark Short also favored reposting the RFP, adding that representatives of about 20 businesses attended the pre-bid meeting in late February, prior to concerns over the spread of COVID-19.

Commission Chair Carol Carter said it is the commission’s fiduciary responsibility to move forward

Fine-tuning continues May 13 on the new Anna Maria City Pier, 101 Bay Blvd.

Construction on the pier began in 2018 and is in its final stages.

Islander Photo: ChrisAnn Allen

with negotiations for a restaurant on the new pier and she supported the Ugly Grouper’s offer. She also said the family-friendly atmosphere offered at the Ugly Grouper would be a good fit for the pier.

The Ugly Grouper’s bid totaled $2,376,000 for annual base rent over a 10-year lease, including the bait shop — 28.6% more revenue than Sean Murphy’s offer.

For an alternative rent formula, the Ugly Grouper offered $144,000 per year and 2% of net sales.

Ross was aboard for the May 14 meeting call and said he was “at a loss” that the commission would consider putting the RFP back out to bid when the Ugly Grouper had a proven record and he met the terms of the RFP. “In four years, we took a restaurant in the middle of the island from what it was to a restaurant that had, overwhelmingly, the highest average experience rating across four different social media platforms,” Ross said, referring to the renovation of the Barefoot Tiki Bar, the outdoor bar and music venue purchased by the Ugly Grouper partners. “I only do things to do them right.”

Five people spoke in favor of the Ugly Grouper during public comment May 14.

Steve Rose, owner of Bortell’s Lounge in Anna Maria and a restaurant investor, as well as a resident of Anna Maria, said one of his restaurants is over water, similar to the pier, and projects such as the pier restaurant are complex.

“Any restaurant that you put over water, down a dock, you face hurricanes, red tide and any delivery you have is going to require at least two other employees,” Rose said. “It’s a project.”

He said he was impressed by the transformation of the outdoor bar to the Ugly Grouper and, even though they are business competitors, he supported Ross for the pier.

Commissioners acknowledged the public support for the Ugly Grouper and Ross’ willingness to continue his bid and unanimously approved a motion to start negotiations.

Although construction nearly was complete May 15, the city planned to wait to open the pier to fishing and sightseeing until the novel coronavirus impact has been significantly decreased in Manatee County.

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Opinion

Our

Choose a side

I’m up on the tightrope, one side’s hate and one is hope.

It’s like coming out of a nightmare where you created a sci fi movie — you’re the scriptwriter, director, actor. There’s a worldwide pandemic and every move you make puts you in a high-risk situation, with scary people lurking around every corner, waiting to end your life and the lives of others?

It’s worse than the scariest end-of-the-world movie you’ve ever seen. Sharks are flying at you. Waves are crashing over downtown Bradenton. A monster is stomping on the planes at the airport. Roaches are crawling under your fingernails. You’ve lost touch with everyone.

Yo. We’re there.

We’re living in that world, but the threat isn’t from monsters or roaches or sharks or flooding.

It’s a virus — invisible and deadly.

Maybe you’re more vulnerable due to your age and health issues.

Maybe you have young kids or grandkids who don’t quite understand what the virus can do to people, but, regardless, they are scared.

Maybe you really, really yearn to satisfy your urge to go shopping or to mingle with people over a cold adult beverage.

Maybe you want to get out of the house to burn off some anguish from too many days indoors.

Maybe you need a haircut or your nails done.

Maybe you just want some familiar relaxation.

Whatever it is that’s pulling at you, settle back down in your recliner. This is not the time to rush back to whatever you thought was normal.

Normal is gone ... like the old “Twilight Zone” TV show, we are living “between the pit of man’s fears and the summit of his knowledge.”

Coronavirus and the disease it causes, COVID-19, are in control of the spaceship and we’re hurtling toward another galaxy.

Oops. Sorry, I lapsed into a time warp.

But I seriously believe — after seeing photos of folks “out on the town” in this week’s newspaper — that some people are recklessly going without masks, even knowing it selfishly puts other people, including their loved ones and friends, at great risk. boomtime on the beach There’s a law to prevent vacationers from coming Is it time to ban boomboxes and radios on the here, but no law requiring we wear masks in public? beach? Don’t get me wrong. I love to listen to music That putting us on a tightrope. as much as the next person. And if you want to listen Don’t forget, #AMItogether. — Bonner Joy to profanity-laced rap, it is OK with me —as long as it’s confined to the privacy of your ears.

The Holmes Beach mayor’s solution to loud music is to call the police or code enforcement. If you think MAY 20, 2020 • Vol. 28, No. 30 this solution works, raise your hand. ▼ Publisher and Editor Not so fast, Beethoven.

Bonner Joy, news@islander.org The problem with this solution is the tone-deaf ▼ Editorial offenders somehow manage to hear the police coming Lisa neff, editor, lisa@islander.org chrisann allen, chrisann@islander.org and turn down their music or hide their boombox.

Sandy ambrogi, sandy@islander.org A simple solution is to ban playing radios or boomJoe Bird, editorial cartoonist Kevin cassidy, kevin@islander.org boxes without the use of earbuds.

Michael dunn, michael@islander.org Please, let the mayor’s office know your opinion, Jack elka, jack@jackelka.com unless, of course, you disagree with me.

Brook Morrison, brook@islander.org ryan Paice, ryan@islander.org Bob Smolenski, Holmes Beach

Opinion

Your

Contributors arthur Brice, arthur@islander.org Sarah Brice, sarah@islander.org Jesse Brisson Leslie Lake, leslie@islander.org Karen riley-Love capt. danny Stasny, fish@islander.org ▼ Advertising Director toni Lyon, toni@islander.org ▼ Office Staff Lisa Williams, office manager Vicki Mcintyre, office assistant, reader advocate info@, accounting@, classifieds@, subscriptions@islander.org ▼ Distribution urbane Bouchet Judy Loden Wasco ross roberts (All others: news@islander.org) ▼

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

‘Carpetbagger’ among us

I suggest if she wants to see a lawsuit she can rent to someone with the virus who can be linked to a resident catching the virus and see how quick a trial lawyer is knocking on her door.

We don’t need lectures from a carpetbagger regarding how to govern our community.

Like I’ve heard many times, “If you can’t stand the heat get out of the kitchen!” So to that end, “If you can’t make the payments get out of the rental investment business!”

Michael Storms, Holmes Beach

Why so? How come?

Why do the Holmes Beach police not travel the public beach after it is closed to evict people?

Why is there a dumpster in the 5200 block of Gulf Drive and two overflowing trash receptacles at 5300 Gulf Drive?

Why, if there is no alcohol on the beach, can I pick up 12 beer cans and one beer bottle?

Why, when a loud noise complaint is filed, do police approach for an inspection on loud beach buggies that can be seen for blocks?

Why are there dogs on the beach?

How drunk must a beachgoer be to leave a bathing suit top, three shirts, shoes and female sanitary products?

Why does Anna Maria Island management not look at how other cities handle these issues?

Why are new police drones not seeing the above and those who are using the beach as an open-air hotel?

Kathy Vitale, Holmes Beach

The definition of a carpetbagger, broadly, is a Northerner taking financial advantage of situations in the South and I now know of at least one person who qualifies.

Putting the health and lives of residents on Anna Maria Island at risk to rent vacation properties to people from locations with higher concentrations of the virus is unbelievably irresponsible.

As if the mayors of the three island communities had any say so in the matter anyway. The restriction came from the governor.

Unfairness would be if one of the carpetbagger’s renters brought with them the virus and a valued elderly lifelong resident contracted the virus and died.

Write! The Islander welcomes your opinion letters.

As expected, these investment types always turn Submit your opinion along with name, address and a to threatening lawsuits. contact phone number to news@islander.org.

May 20, 2020 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 7 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Tuning up at the center ana Shaw, a high school senior, teaches piano at a summer music camp she conducted at the community center — now the center of anna Maria island, 407 Magnolia ave., anna Maria. the photo is dated July 1995. islander Photos: Manatee county Public Library System digital collection

From the archives

10&20 years ago

From the May 17, 2000, issue

• The Anna Maria parking committee had five proposals to present to the city commission. The committee of 11 people had been meeting since August 1999. Among the recommendations were resident-only parking, restricted beach-access parking and allowing items in the rights of way as a deterrent to public parking.

• The Manatee County Emergency Medical Services warned of a scam in which a caller sought a donation to benefit the community and EMS staff. The scammer told people their EMS services would be restricted if they did not donate.

• Anna Maria Mayor Gary Deffenbaugh dropped his plan to research the costs of a city police department versus the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office contract. Deffenbaugh told applauding residents and commissioners the city purchased pagers so he could reach deputies.

From the May 19, 2010, issue

… Anchoring the east side fast eddie’s restaurant and Lounge at the corner of Pine avenue and Bay Boulevard in anna Maria undergoes demolition in September 1997. the restaurant at the site of the former anchorage diner and bar opened in 1993 and was managed by John Horne, the owner now of the anna Maria oyster Bar operations. fast eddie’s closed in 1995 and was demolished in 1997.

E

99

NOW readers and business advocates can “bank” ad dollars with The Islander that will be entered into a prize drawing for COVID19 “reopening” ads ... every dollar in the bank will be matched by The Islander. Donors can nominate winners or The Islander will select advertisers in a random drawing to receive ad dollars and prizes! All contributors will be included in the prize drawing! It’s your chance to help our momand-pop businesses in a win-win promotion!

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• The Anna Maria Island Privateers held the annual Snooks Adams Kids Day celebration in Anna Maria’s Bayfront Park. Children searched the beach for what the pirates described as “14 tons of treasure.”

• Holmes Beach commissioners decided to name the city hall chambers for Patricia Geyer, who served four years as mayor, 20 years as city commissioner and many years as the operator of Duffy’s Tavern.

• Manatee County officials said the county would probably shift priorities to fund beach renourishment over a new pier or a pier renovation at Manatee Public Beach in Holmes Beach.

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Page 8 THE ISLANDER | islander.org May 20, 2020 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Gathering

roser Guild accepting scholarship apps

The Roser Women’s Guild is accepting scholarship applications until Friday, May 22.

Applications are available at the church office, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, or by calling the office at 941778-0414.

Part-time students can receive $375 per semester and full-time students can receive $750 per semester.

The scholarships are paid to the school and must be used for tuition, books, supplies and fees. st. b opens for Mass, prayer Scholars must maintain a 2.75 cumulative point St. Bernard Catholic Church planned to resume average.

Mass May 18, as The Islander went to press.

Proceeds from the Roser Thrift Store fund the The parish priest, the Rev. Chester Domaszewicz, scholarships wrote to church members, “It is with great joy that I am able to announce that the public celebration of Holy Mass will resume.”

Mass will be celebrated at 8:30 a.m. weekdays, as WORSHIP well as 4 p.m. Saturday, May 23, and 8:30 a.m. Sunday, May 24. A second Mass may be added to the Sunday Saturday schedule May 31, when, according to Domaszewicz, 4 p.m. — St. Bernard Catholic Church, 248 S. Harbor Drive, the “new normal” could begin.

Holmes Beach.

Also, the church announced that “masks must be Sunday worn at all times” and may only be removed to receive 8:30 a.m. — St. Bernard.

Communion.

9:30 a.m. — CrossPointe Fellowship, 8605 Gulf Drive, Holmes Social distancing must be observed, including in Beach. the Communion line and people in vulnerable populaONLINE WORSHIP tions — older or with compromised immune systems — are encouraged to stay at home.

Sunday The size of congregations should be limited to 9:30 a.m. — Episcopal Church of the Annunciation, Facebook 25% occupancy, according to a statement from Bishop page.

Frank Dewane of the Diocese of Venice.

9:30 a.m. — Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, Facebook page.

“These are extraordinary times and I ask for your 10 a.m. — Roser Memorial Community Church, roserchurch. patience and goodwill as parishes reopen for public com. celebrations,” Dewane said, adding he is “aware that 10 a.m. — Longboat Island Chapel, longboatislandchapel. there is a hunger for the Eucharist.” org.

While church services were resuming, the dis10 a.m. — Christ Church of Longboat Key, christchurchlbk. pensation from the obligation to attend Sunday Mass org. remains through June 28 and Mass videos from the ONGOING diocese continue to be streamed to online.

The church, 248 S. Harbor Drive, Holmes Beach, Monday-Friday also is open Monday-Friday for private prayer.

8-11 a.m. — Private prayer, St. Bernard Catholic Church, 248 A notice said, “Please continue to practice social S. Harbor Drive, Holmes Beach. distancing with a mask while in church. Thank you.”

9 a.m.-3 p.m. — Private prayer, Roser Memorial Community

Tidings

Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria.

Gathering

SAVE THE DATES

Please, send listings for the religion page, including a contact name and phone number, to news@islander.org and calendar@islander.org.

May 31, Pentecost.

Sept. 18-20, Rosh Hashanah.

Sept. 27-28, Yom Kippur.

Nov. 1, All Saints Day.

Click!

The Islander welcomes news of the milestones in readers’ lives. Submit notices and photographs, along with contact information, to news@ islander.org.

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Obituaries

Doris Jean Athans

Doris Jean (Biddle) Athans, 92, of Bradenton Beach, died April 27 at Serenity Gardens of Bradenton Assisted Living Residence.

She died peacefully of natural causes in the loving company of family and friends. A 35-year resident of Bradenton Beach, she enjoyed the beautiful Gulf of Mexico views and the friendly and caring community that she said was unique to Anna Maria Island.

She was born June 30, 1927, in the rural outskirts of Ann Arbor, Michigan, where she spent her childhood with younger sister, Janet, and older step-brothers, Wayne and Red. She later attended the University of Michigan, earning a degree in physical education, where she also met her husband, George Peter Athans, who played football for the Michigan Wolverines.

She remained a lifelong fan of Michigan football even after graduating and moving to Mount Kisco, New York, where she taught at the local elementary school while also receiving her master’s degree in teaching from Columbia University.

Shortly afterward, she joined the faculty of the local Boys and Girls Club and the park and recreation commission to provide recreational programming and instruction in children’s activities, pre-school education and summer camping recreation for more than 30 years.

From 1968 onward, she spent her summers in Bennington, New Hampshire, with her husband, and for more than 20 joyful years they ran Camp Winamac, a horseback riding and water sports camp. She always felt fortunate for her rich and adventurous life.

A family service will be announced at a later date.

Mrs. Athans is survived by two daughters and a son, as well as four grandchildren, who also revere her memory.

Joan Hampton Peery

Joan “Joann” Hampton Peery of Anna Maria died May 8. She was born Sept. 2, 1928, to the Revs. Joseph Hampton and Anna Hopper.

Her father, as well as her grandfather the Rev. Seaborn Hopper, were Methodist ministers.

She graduated from the University of Tennessee with a bachelor’s degree in education on a Methodist Missionary scholarship.

Peery Before public kindergartens existed, she helped establish private kindergartens at Methodist churches in Tennessee and Georgia. She surveyed the new “government city” of Oak Ridge, Tennessee, for the Methodist Church, where three Methodist churches and a Methodist hospital were ultimately built. She was a popular Methodist church camp counselor and director of both senior and children’s choirs.

In 1951, she married William Whitley Peery Sr., a physicist with the Atomic Energy Commission. They PLeaSe, See oBitUaRies, neXt Page

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May 20, 2020 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 9 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

CrossPointe to open for Sunday worship

CrossPointe Fellowship will resume its worship services at 9:30 a.m. Sunday, May 24.

Following the service, at 10:30 a.m., the church will host its life groups.

An announcement from executive administrator Sandy Watts said the church would not open its nursery or offer children’s activities “for a few more weeks.”

The church had suspended activities and shifted to online worship due to the new coronavirus pandemic.

The church is at 8605 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach.

For more information, call the church office at 941-778-0719.

Virtual Memorial Day tributes set for May 25

The city of Anna Maria canceled plans for a Memorial Day salute due to the coronavirus pandemic, but several regional tributes will take place — online.

The Manatee County Veterans Services will conduct its observance via Facebook Live at 9 a.m.

Monday, May 25.

The 30-minute event will include an invocation, playing of the national anthem, taps, remarks and a benediction.

For information, including a link to join the tribute, go to www.facebook.com/manateecountyveteransservices.

Also, the Sarasota National Cemetery will livestream its Memorial Day service at 10 a.m. May 25.

The program will include a video by Gold Star families — families that have lost someone in military service — and can be found on the Sarasota National Cemetery’s Facebook page.

In the neon glow Clusters of LED furniture on the shore in Holmes Beach spell “Happy Mother’s Day.” The installation May 9 was the work of Rainer Scheer and Patricia Filomeno and a team of assistants.

“Cheers!” said Scheer on Facebook, and “Thanks to all the wonderful mothers out there.”

obituaries continued from page 8

moved from Tennessee to Atlanta and raised two sons after Mr. Peery was selected to help open the Nuclear Regulatory Commission’s new regional office.

Rainer Scheer and Patricia Filomeno of Holmes Beach Mrs. Peery was a teacher and educator in Tennesrelax on their LED furniture creations. Sheer is founder see and then in Georgia for many years until retirement of Chillounge Night and Florida Furniture Rental and his Rainer Scheer arranges LED furniture eleat age 70. wife, Filomeno, is founder of Ink Graphics Media and We ments on the sand in Holmes Beach for a The couple retired to Anna Maria Island.

Love Anna Maria Island.

Islander Photos: Courtesy Patricia “Happy Mother’s Day” tribute.

She will be buried in a private service at the Peery Filomeno plot in Maplewood Cemetery in Tazewell, Virginia.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Anna Maria Island Garden Club, P.O. Box 4131, Anna Maria, FL 34216, or Roser Memorial Church, P.O. He was a kind and gentle soul Assistance offered Box 247, Anna Maria, FL 34216. who never met a stranger. He loved These groups offer help: Mrs. Peery is survived by two sons, William Whitboating and fishing and taught many • The Roser Food Bank offers staples, Roser ley II and wife Deborah Curtis, and Joseph Hampton island visitors how to catch the big Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Information: 941and wife Janet Brockus; grandchildren Jennifer Peery one.

778-0414.

Logue, Clinton Curtis and Tammy Perryman; and He was an organic gardener and • CrossPointe Fellowship offers help dealing with great-grandchildren Vincent, Gabriella Guerra, Alex loved helping neighbors with their the COVID-19 outbreak, including grocery shopping.

Wampler and Karissa Ibarra and Layla and Myah Guzman. gardens. He was a loving and giving Information: 941-778-0719.

Robert L. Wampler friend to all.

• All Island Denominations offers monetary help, He will be missed by all who knew him. including relief for unemployed people. Information: Robert L. Wampler, 64, of Holmes Beach, died Donations in his memory may be made to St. Jude 941-725-2433.

April 28 at Tidewell Hospice.

These organizations need your help: He was born Dec. 27, 1955, in Harlingen, Texas Children’s Hospital online at www.stjude.org.

Mr. Wampler is survived by his wife, Debbie; • The Roser Food Bank needs donations. Informato John and Sara Hendrix.

He met and married Debbie in Atlanta in 1978 and brother-in-law and sister-in-law Randy and Brenda tion: 941-778-0414.

Evans; brother-in-law and sister-in-law Don and Sandy • Moonracer Animal Rescue seeks volunteers to they moved to Anna Maria Island in 1979.

He was the owner of Bluewater Tile Installation Greer; nephew Jon Ryan Taylor, niece Krista Butler; offer foster and forever homes for rescued animals. and his good friend since high school, Jim Redman. Information: 941-345-2441. for more than 30 years.

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Page 10 THE ISLANDER | islander.org May 20, 2020 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Exterior painting

The Islander Calendar ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT LOOKING AHEAD OFF AMI

artist Marie garafano adjusts her easel on the beach. With the Holmes Beach gallery closed due to the coronavirus pandemic, artists’ guild of anna Maria island members set about creating more art works. they went outdoors May 11 and practiced social distancing. islander Photos: courtesy Wendell graham

June 16-July 31, ArtCenter Manatee all-media juried exhibit, Bradenton.

CLUBS & COMMUNITY OFF AMI Tuesday, May 26 3:30-6:30 p.m. — Mega Pantry, State College of Florida, 5840 26th St. W., Bradenton. Information: 813-254-1190.

GOOD TO KNOW SAVE THE DATES Monday, May 25, Memorial Day. Sunday, June 21, Father’s Day. Saturday, July 4, Fourth of July.

Monday, Sept. 7, Labor Day.

artist eija friedlander, a member of the artists’ guild of anna Maria island, enjoys an exercise in plein air painting near the florida Maritime Museum in cortez.

Paradise Center takes programs outdoors

The Paradise Center is resuming its fitness classes but moving them outdoors to comply with public health guidelines.

The center, 546 Bay Isles Road, Longboat Key, will offer a stretch and strengthen class at 10 a.m.

Mondays and a Zumba and Pilates class at 10 a.m.

Thursdays.

Also, the center will host its “Thinking Out Loud Discussion Group” at 1 p.m. Mondays and “fun and games” at 11 a.m. Wednesdays.

An announcement said, “You all know the drill by now, but if you have any respiratory symptoms or have been around anyone with symptoms in the last 14 days, stay home! If you have traveled outside the area in the last 14 days, stay home!”

The center recommends people wear masks and bring water. Chairs will be placed 6 feet apart and Click! The Islander welcomes news of the groups will be limited to 10 people. milestones in readers’ lives. Send to news@islander.org.

For more, call the center at 941-383-6493.

ArtCenter Manatee calls artists to exhibit ists.

From the ArtCenter Manatee comes a call for art-

The center is planning an all-media, juried exhibit June 16-July 31 in its galleries at 209 Ninth St. W., Bradenton.

Artists can enter online at artcentermanatee.org through 4 p.m. Friday, May 29, or in person 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday, June 13. A notice said the center would maintain public safety guidelines issued by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Artists can win a $1,500 first-place prize, as well as $1,000 second-place and $500 third-place prizes and other honors.

A reception is being organized but may be virtual due to the coronavirus pandemic.

The art center’s call reads: “Show us your best and we’ll reward you with a premier exhibit and prize amounts that reflect the caliber of your all-media work.”

An artist can enter three pieces of work.

For more information, call the center at 941-7462862.

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May 20, 2020 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 11 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

AME principal updates school plans, praises staff

By Brook Morrison islander reporter

Empty desks occupy Anna Maria Elementary in Holmes Beach.

Instead of kids rushing about and fifth-grade graduation assemblies, the COVID-19 pandemic has emptied the hallways.

AME parents and students — and also AME staff — wonder when they featherston will be back in the building and what will have changed?

Since late March, AME students, as well as many students across the country, have practiced distance learning, studying at home via online tools.

“Never in my career as an educator would I have ever guessed we would be dealing with these additional challenges in learning,” AME principal Jackie

Center day camps begin

For working parents and others, “center schooling” may be an alternative to “home schooling.”

The Center of Anna Maria Island is hosting a day camp for children ages 5-12.

The camp was to begin May 18, as The Islander went to press, and operate Monday-Friday.

The center is offering three camp options: • Virtual School Assistance, 9 a.m.-noon MondayFriday, at a cost of $40 per week.

• Beyond the Classroom, noon-5 p.m. MondayFriday, $80 per week.

• All Day Camp, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Monday-Friday, $120 per week.

The full day includes morning and afternoon programs and students need to bring a lunch.

Registration is required the Thursday prior to attending camp.

The center, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria, charges a one-time $25 registration fee for new campers.

For more information, contact Ashley Friszman at the community center at ashley@centerami.org and941-778-1908.

Featherston wrote The Islander in an email.

She praised “educators and families for rising to the occasion of making sure our students continue their education to the best of their ability.”

Featherston said she’s heard from teachers who believe they’re becoming better educators by quickly adapting and discovering new resources to support instruction and families on the virtual platform.

Featherston also said parents have a deeper understanding of how children learn and of their kids’ struggles and strengths.

Still, for AME’s fifth-graders, the academic year will end this month without the usual class activities and events, including a class trip and awards ceremony to mark their transition to middle school.

Traditionally on the last day of school, the AME student body, staff and principal line the halls to clap, hug, wave and deliver a tearful goodbye to the fifthgraders as they leave the building for the last time.

It’s rare to see a dry eye during the event.

The 2019-20 fifth-grade class will be celebrated with a twist on the old tradition — a drive-thru “car awards” parade on campus on the last day of school.

On Thursday, May 28, 10 a.m.-noon, fifth-graders are expected to arrive in cars and other vehicles for a motorcade through the bus loop “to drop off books and computers and will then proceed to the car line to pick up their awards and enjoy a very special farewell and surprise,” Featherston said.

The end of the year also will bring the retirement of first-grade teacher Toni Lashway, who has taught at AME for 33 years.

Lashway will be missed by staff and students.

Also, second-grade teacher Sandra Fischer, who was AME’s Outstanding Teacher of the Year in 201920, will transfer to Bayshore Elementary.

Fischer had the least seniority at AME, which is losing two teaching units in the 2020-21 year.

The Manatee County School District increased the number of students per class in each grade and, as a result, AME, along with Stewart Elementary and several other schools in the district, are losing teachers.

“We will open the school year with one kindergar-

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ten class, one first-grade class, one second-grade class and two third- through fifth-grade classes,” Featherston said.

Registration is open for the next year.

Parents can pick up registration packets at the front door of the school, where they can make inquiries on the intercom.

Alternatively, parents can request registration information online.

The 2020-21 year is set to start for students Monday, Aug. 10, but the date could be delayed due to COVID-19.

Featherston said three scenarios are being discussed: full-time with students in the AME building, full-time e-learning or a rotation of half the students in class and half at home.

“I am expecting that staff with personal protective equipment will conduct a daily screening at the entrance of the school, which includes a temperature check,” Featherston said.

If anyone has a temperature of 100.4 degrees or higher, cough or shortness of breath, they would not be admitted.

Also, no volunteers or visitors would be allowed entry to the school during the pandemic restrictions.

Hourly hand-washing, as well as social distancing and other safe practices, are planned to help students return to brick-and-mortar classrooms.

“I do believe the majority of us are looking forward to much more normalcy in our future,” said Featherston.

Page 12 THE ISLANDER | islander.org May 20, 2020 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Holmes Beach revisits scooter, bike-share ordinance

By ChrisAnn Allen Islander Reporter

It took a couple of spins around the block, but this time they think they’ve found a balance.

During a teleconferenced meeting May 12, Holmes Beach commissioners unanimously approved the first reading of an ordinance regulating bike- and scootershares, as well as renting and operating motorized scooters, Segways and scooter cars branded as ScootCoupes.

A ScootCoupe is an open-air, three-wheeled vehicle powered by a 49cc engine, not available for rent in Holmes Beach, but offered by one business in Anna Maria.

A previous version of the ordinance, approved by the commission in January, included a ban on the rental and operation of three-wheeled scooter cars, among other regulations in the new ordinance.

However, when faced with possible legal action from the owner of Robinhood Rentals of Anna Maria, the city reconsidered its ScootCoupe prohibition.

The city attorney revised the ordinance to prohibit the rental of scooter cars, but allow their operation in Holmes Beach.

If approved on final reading, the ordinance would ban megacycles from rental or operation in the city.

If approved, a new Holmes Beach ordinance will prohibit the rental of ScootCoupes, such as these pictured for rent in Anna Maria, while Vespa-style scooters are not impacted. Islander Photo: ChrisAnn Allen

A “megacycle” is a four-wheeled, pedal-powered vehicle that can hold 5-15 people and typically does not exceed 15 mph.

The ordinance prohibits: • Online or app-based rental of point-to-point “micro-mobility devices,” including e-scooters and bike-shares; • Rental of motorized scooters;

Seawall repairs proceed

• Rental of scooter cars; • Rental and operation of megacycles; • Businesses offering bicycle sharing; • Motorized devices on sidewalks; • Operation of motorized scooters and mopeds in bike lanes.

The ordinance also includes regulatory powers for the city regarding the rental of 49cc scooters, mopeds and Segways.

Segways and electric bicycles would not be available for rent in the city — except Segway tours — but people would be allowed to use their own vehicles.

Larger scooters, such as Vespas, would not be prohibited from city streets, but are not allowed on bike lanes and sidewalks, according to state law.

“I think this is moving in the right direction,” Commissioner Kim Rash said May 12, after more than a year’s work on the ordinance.

“Finally, I think we have clarity in what has taken quite a bit of discussion and wordsmithing to perfect,” Commissioner Terry Schaefer said.

The commission will hold a public hearing and vote on the second, final reading at 6 p.m. Tuesday, May 26, during its meeting, which will be held by teleconference. People can participate by dialing 1-929205-6099. Once prompted, dial 975-9491-6591#.

Holmes Beach restores business tax hike, collection

Construction on a an aged, damaged seawall by Duncan Seawall, Dock and Boatlift of Sarasota on Marina Drive in Holmes Beach started the week of April 6 and was ongoing May 16.

The city said the work is ahead of schedule and could be completed before the 70-day timeline set by the contractor. Islander Photo: Bonner Joy

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Holmes Beach will retain its recent business tax increase for 2020-21.

In April, Commissioner Terry Schaefer asked the mayor and commissioners to reconsider an ordinance approved in March to increase the local business tax.

Schaefer suggested that suspending the tax for a year could provide relief to businesses suffering the economic effects of COVID-19.

Commissioners directed city attorney Patricia Petruff to draft an ordinance requiring the filing by businesses, but suspending the fee for fiscal year 202021, which begins Oct. 1.

At the May 12 meeting, held by teleconference, city clerk Stacey Johnston said the city must separate local businesses from those companies with headquarters elsewhere, which must still pay the tax. Only local businesses would be exempt.

Additionally, Mayor Judy Titsworth said, if the city suspended the tax, it must make up for lost revenue, since the income covers operating costs for the licensing program. She said the revenue loss could lead to an increase in ad valorem taxes.

Suspending the fee for 2020-21 would have cost the city about $45,000.

The commissioners reached consensus to retain the tax for 2020-21.

A business will pay between $67 and $201.01, depending on the service provided and size.

The next city commission meeting will be at 6 p.m.

Tuesday, May 26 by teleconference. People can participate by dialing 1-929-205-6099. Once prompted, dial 975-9491-6591#.

— ChrisAnn Allen

Times are tough for pets, too.

It’s especially true for rescues and foster pets waiting for a family and a home during the safer-at-home orders.

Please, join us and help wherever you can with adoption, food or funding. … or reach out to our partners at Moonracer No Kill Pet Rescue, Moonraceranimalrescue.com, 941-345-2441.

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May 20, 2020 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 13 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

bradenton beach shifts boatlift location, sets dock inspection By ryan Paice islander reporter

Sometimes you can’t get what you want.

Bradenton Beach city commissioners voted 4-1 May 7 to approve a Florida Department of Environmental Protection application for a submerged land lease to shift a proposed boatlift from the north side of the Historic Bridge Street Pier to the south side, at the west end of the floating dock.

Commissioner Ralph Cole voted “no” due to his concerns with maintenance issues.

City attorney Ricinda Perry said she was pursuing a submerged land lease from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection for dock accouterments, including a lift for use by the police department and finger docks to supplement the floating dock.

The city and its community redevelopment agency previously agreed to use space on the north side of the pier for the lift, but needed an agreement with the Jackson Partnership, owner of the Pines Trailer Park, adjacent to the pier, to gain riparian rights to the space.

Perry said the partnership offered the rights if the city paid $10,000 for attorney fees it incurred during negotiations, but she said $10,000 was too high of a cost.

Mayor John Chappie said he was disappointed with the tone in an email asking for $10,000 and suggested the city relocate the lift.

Perry said Bradenton Beach Police Lt. John Cosby approved relocating the police boat to the south side of the pier near the west end of the floating dock.

Perry said no part of the police boat would rise higher than the pier railing on the lift, limiting the lift’s visual impact at the pier. She said John Horne, owner

clouds gather as a couple gazes toward Sarasota Bay May 16 from the gangway of the floating dock at the Historic Bridge Street Pier in Bradenton Beach. the floating dock is awaiting repairs. islander Photo: ryan Paice

of the Anna Maria Oyster Bar on the pier, consented to the location.

Cole said he was disappointed with the relocation because he wanted the floating dock to link with a dinghy dock at the base of the pier to allow his proposal for a nature walk along the shore.

“If it can’t be done, I’m not going to waste my time doing it,” Cole said. “But we need the police boat out there. It’s long overdue.”

Commissioner Jan Vosburgh moved to relocate the proposed boatlift to the south side of the pier. Commissioner Marilyn Maro seconded the motion.

Meanwhile, the CRA addressed the continuing problems with the floating dock.

Hecker Construction, the contractor that installed

bb CrA makes headway on bridge street Bridge Street’s makeover is almost complete.

Superior Asphalt repaved the commercial strip May 7 — it closed May 6-8 to vehicles to accommodate the work — and painted temporary striping while awaiting the asphalt to cure over the next two weeks.

The paving company excavated the top inches of the stamped concrete roadway — without impacting the areas of recently laid brick pavers — before pouring, pressing and restriping the asphalt. The contractor also applied new asphalt in the parking lot of the Bridge Street post office.

Other community redevelopment agency projects underway include burying Bridge Street utility lines, installing new streetlamps and resurfacing crosswalks and parking spaces with pervious pavers to improve drainage.

The final installation of pervious pavers took place the week of May 4, but additional pavers were planned to resurface the city parking lot on First Street behind the BridgeWalk Resort, 100 Bridge St. Work on the First Street parking lot began the week of May 11 and was to take about two weeks.

Classic Brick Construction, the paver contractor, repaired some sections of pavers in the crosswalks on Bridge Street that sank after installation.

Meanwhile, Bradenton Beach city attorney Ricinda Perry said May 6 that Wilco Electrical had finalized the underground infrastructure to bury the Bridge Street utility lines.

She added that Florida Power & Light would conduct an as-built inspection May 12 and, if FPL approves Wilco’s work, the contractor could switch properties to the new underground system.

Wilco also prepared holes where new streetlamps would be installed along Bridge Street, but the CRA has yet to choose the fixtures.

Perry previously expressed concern that CRW Ventures Inc., which owns 101 Bridge St., had not responded to requests form the city to connect to the underground system.

However, the company has since approved the power transition.

Perry said Wilco could install the street lighting, as well as remove retired utility and light poles, within 30-45 days.

— ryan Paice

the dock, made several repairs to prevent further damage but, apparently, more work is needed to meet the designer’s specifications.

Hecker completed repairs for one section but still must replace bolts and secure connections for the remainder of the dock.

“If it was put together the way it was supposed to be, we wouldn’t be having this conversation right now,” Cole said.

Cole said he had scheduled a meeting with Foster Engineering, subcontracted by Hecker for engineering work during installation, to discuss the CRA’s concerns with the dock, including the missing bolts.

The CRA has discussed hiring Foster to complete an as-built final inspection for the dock after repairs. a Superior asphalt employee looks on May 7 as the contractor excavates Bridge Street ahead of a repaving job. islander Photo: ryan Paice

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Page 14 THE ISLANDER | islander.org May 20, 2020 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Condo group digs in, modifies beach dune

Sometimes time is needed to fix a problem.

Bradenton Beach building official Steve Gilbert wrote in a May 15 email to The Islander that Imperial House Condominium Association had damaged a beach dune during “maintenance” on a beach access point.

Imperial House did not submit a permit application to the building department because permits are not required for beach access maintenance, according to Gilbert.

However, when he witnessed the use of shovels the week of May 11, Gilbert asked Florida Department of Environmental Protections officials to determine if the work could be constituted as maintenance.

Imperial House finished work on the beach access before the DEP provided input, but Gilbert said a department official told him “the natural process, if they leave it alone, will result in the dune reestablishing itself, as well as the vegetation.”

Gilbert added, “According to the DEP, they did not follow the instructions, or did not understand the instruction, that shovels were not to be used.”

Gilbert said no further action would be taken. a beach dune was damaged the week of May 11 during imperial House condominium association’s main— ryan Paice

Streetlife

tenance of a nearby beach access. an official from the state deP said the dune, as well as the vegetation, would reestablish if left alone. islander Photo: ryan Paice

Staff reports

Island police reports

Anna Maria May 10, 400 block of Spring Avenue, assault. The MCSO responded to a report of an assault at about 1:15 a.m. A witness reported a fight taking place and that one person involved threatened to run over another person. An MCSO report said the dispatch received an abandoned 911 call and “the call turned into a fight which turned into a battery.”

May 10, 100 block of North Bay Boulevard, loud noise. The MCSO received a complaint at about 11 p.m. of a loud noise.

May 11, 100 block of Willow Avenue, fraud. The MCSO took a complaint of fraud. The complainant said a credit card went missing from a purse and was used in Tampa.

May 11, 800 block of Jacaranda Road, beverage violation. The MCSO dealt with a beverage violation at about 2:30 p.m.

May 12, 200 block of Palm Avenue, loud noise.

The MCSO received a complaint about loud noise at

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about 10:33 p.m.

May 13, 400 block of Spring Avenue, loud noise.

The MCSO received a complaint about loud noise at about 10 a.m. The complainant reported loud music next door but when law enforcement arrived there was no music playing.

May 13, 500 block of Kumquat Drive, suspicious vehicle. The MCSO received a report about 8 p.m. of a suspicious vehicle.

Anna Maria is policed by the MCSO. Bradenton Beach No new reports.

BBPD polices Bradenton Beach.

Cortez No new reports.

MCSO polices Cortez.

Holmes Beach May 6, Hurricane Liquors, 5344 Gulf Drive, petit theft. The store manager called the Holmes Beach Police Department to report the theft of a bottle of vodka. The officer apprehended a man nearby. He was arrested and transported to the Manatee County jail.

May 9, 100 block of 50th Street, alcohol. While on patrol, an officer saw three juveniles drinking alcohol on the beach. The officer issued each a violation for consuming alcohol on a public beach. A parent retrieved the juveniles.

May 9, 4300 block of Gulf Drive, traffic. An officer received a license plate reader hit on a vehicle. Upon

Island watch: In an emergency, call 911. To report information, call the MCSO Anna Maria substation, 941-708-8899; Bradenton Beach police, 941-7786311; or Holmes Beach police, 941-708-5804. stopping the male motorist, the officer determined his driver’s license was suspended and he had an open container of alcohol. The alcohol was dumped and the man was released after being given a notice to appear, as well as a citation for possession of open alcohol in a motor vehicle.

May 9, 4300 block of Gulf Drive, traffic. The LPR system alerted the officer on patrol. The motorist was stopped and placed under arrest for driving an unregistered vehicle with a suspended license. He was issued two notices to appear. The vehicle was towed and the man was released.

May 10, 3900 block of Sixth Avenue, traffic. The officer on patrol was notified by the LPR system of a motorist with a suspended license. The female driver was given a notice to appear. She was released at the scene and a passenger drove the vehicle.

May 13, 300 block of 68th Street, noise. An HBPD officer was called to a noise complaint where he heard loud singing. The officer measured the sound with a decibel meter, determined the noise was excessive and issued a violation to the property owner.

HBPD polices Holmes Beach.

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

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May 20, 2020 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 15 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

County opens public beach parking; cities, beachgoers react By chrisann allen islander reporter

“So we undertook a little experiment last week at our public beaches,” Manatee County administrator Cheri Coryea said as she began her May 12 presentation to county commissioners about reopening public beach parking during a teleconferenced commission meeting.

The county opened parking May 4 to limited numbers of vehicles at Coquina and Cortez beaches in Bradenton Beach and the Manatee Public Beach in Holmes Beach. Parking capacity was reduced to about half in the county-run beach lots and people were allowed to stay for two hours.

The “experiment” was deemed a success by the county, and commissioners unanimously voted May 12 to open the lots to full capacity and also to open parking at Bayfront Park, 316 N. Bay Blvd., Anna Maria.

The motion also included beach and parking patrol assistance for the municipal authorities from the sheriff on weekends and holidays through July 12.

“We were a little nervous,” Coryea said. “We weren’t sure what was going to happen, but the residents really, really stood out and did a great job.”

She added, “It’s busy out there.”

About 20,000 parking passes were issued the week beginning May 4 during monitoring by county code enforcement, and no citations were issued for violating the governor’s order or the parking regulations.

However, following holiday weekend-level traffic

RoadWatch

Eyes on the road

The Florida Department of Transportation and Manatee County posted the following notices: • State Road 684/Cortez Road at the Cortez Bridge: Crews will be working on the bridge. Motorists can expect intermittent east and westbound lane closures 9 p.m.-4 a.m. Tuesday-Thursday, May 26-28.

• State Road 64/Manatee Avenue over Perico Bayou and Palma Sola Bay: Crews are working on the bridges. Motorists can expect lane closures 7 p.m.-6 a.m. Completion will be in the fall.

• Multiple locations in Bradenton Beach: A county pipeline replacement project continues. Impacted areas include Bay Drive South, Bridge Street, Church Avenue and Cortez Road. Expect construction in rights of way and increased truck traffic.

• Cortez Road and 119th Street West in Cortez: Work to realign the intersection of 119th Street West on Cortez Road/State Road 684 continues. Drivers can expect lane closures on Cortez Road from 123rd Street West to 86th Street West 10 p.m.-6 a.m. and on the south side of 119th Street West during the same period.

Pedestrians can expect sidewalk closures.

For the latest road watch information, go online to fl511.com and swflroads.com or dial 511.

Manatee county sheriff’s deputies patrol May 13 at the county-run Bayfront Park at 316 n. Bay Blvd., anna Maria. the deputies were ensuring vehicles were legally parked and people maintained social distancing at the park. islander Photo: chrisann allen

and a glut of illegally parked vehicles the weekend of May 9-10, officials and staff in the island cities opted to keep beach access and right-of-way parking closed.

During the May 14 Holmes Beach meeting, Police Chief Bill Tokajer told commissioners that he and Mayor Judy Titsworth reached out to Coryea during the county meeting and asked her not to open the public parking lot to full capacity.

“We told them that social distancing was more difficult to achieve with Saturday’s crowd and, it appeared to be the busiest beach day so far in 2020. Tokajer said that had the parking lot been filled to capacity, “the beach in front of it would not be able to handle another group from 150 more cars.”

In late April, Holmes Beach commissioners agreed to a parking plan proposed by Tokajer to remove 2,000 parking spaces from city rights of way after the city reopens parking. To qualify for beach renourishment, the city must provide 364 parking spots. Tokajer said the city will have 479 spots after the reduction.

The city prohibited on-street parking and beach access and rights of way parking April 10 to prevent crowding on the beach.

Tokajer said May 12 about 250 new “no parking” signs were ordered but would take about two weeks to arrive and another two weeks to install.

“Before we open our streets up, we need to get the new signs in place,” he said. “So we are looking at about 3-4 weeks at the earliest before we are prepared to open our streets.”

At a teleconferenced meeting May 14, Anna Maria Mayor Dan Murphy said the city issued more parking tickets May 9 than it had in one day in its history.

He supported the county’s decision to open public

beach parking without restrictions.

Murphy also said reduced parking in Holmes Beach may result in increased illegal parking in Anna Maria and proposed a seven-day order, increasing parking fines from $35 to $100. The temporary increase was allowed, due to the declaration of emergency.

“At this point we’re forced to react to it,” Murphy said. “We can’t let that situation happen again.”

Commissioners reached consensus on the increase and planned to meet in seven days to determine if the order would be renewed.

Murphy also directed public works and code enforcement to expand “no parking” zones, mostly in the northern part of the city, starting May 15.

Bradenton Beach Police Chief Sam Speciale said May 14 that he asked the county to install temporary barricades in the rights of way along Gulf Drive, near Coquina Beach, due to problems with people parking on the side of the road the weekend of May 9-10.

“We had people parking everywhere,” he said.

“And my officers had to deal with a lot of verbal abuse from people.”

Speciale said social distancing became a concern when frustrated people approached his officers about the tickets.

With the expected Memorial Day weekend surge approaching May 23-25, the chief asked that people be more considerate of officers and other first responders.

“We understand that everyone has been cooped up for the last month or so, but there are certain things you can’t lose,” Speciale said. “People have to realize, if the county decides this isn’t working, they could go ahead and close the beaches again.”

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Page 16 THE ISLANDER | islander.org May 20, 2020 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Bob and debbie Haynes, anna Maria turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring volunteers, photograph and collect data on a loggerhead sea turtle nest spotted april 27 in Holmes Beach. islander Photo: courtesy aMitW

nesting notes

By ChrisAnn Allen

turtle watch paces the race

The sea turtles that nest on Anna Maria Island are taking their time. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s slow, but thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not surprising,â&#x20AC;? Suzi Fox, Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring executive director, said May 14. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s still early.â&#x20AC;?

Fox said there have been 14 loggerhead nests spotted on island beaches since a turtle watch volunteer allen discovered the first nest of the season April 24 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; about a week before the official start of season May 1.

Fox said an influx of nesting occurred May 10-11, then slowed down. â&#x20AC;&#x153;But the turtles that nested are probably going to come back and nest again in a couple weeks, so we will see another surge,â&#x20AC;? she added.

Mature female sea turtles can nest 3-6 times â&#x20AC;&#x201D; usually about two weeks apart and on the same beach â&#x20AC;&#x201D; in a season, according to data from the Sea Turtle Conservancy.

Due to a planned Manatee County beach renourishment project that could overlap with nesting or hatching, turtle watch volunteers must remove and relocate

the eggs laid within the project zone to hand-dug nests outside the renourishment zone.

The plans call for pumping sand ashore from 78th Street in Holmes Beach south to Longboat Pass. Nests laid within that stretch of beach are being relocated to beaches north of Peppertree Lane in Anna Maria so as not to be inundated by sand from the project.

To accomplish the relocation, Fox and about 15 volunteers patrol the beach by ATV just after sunrise to spot tracks leading to nests laid overnight. AMITW volunteers photograph the original nest and collect

a map shows the closed area of robinson Preserve in northwest Bradenton. the closure is for the final construction phases of the preserveâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s expansion. islander courtesy Photo

Parts of robinson Preserve to close for expansion project

Work is set to resume on final construction phases at Manatee Countyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Robinson Preserve expansion.

The county parks and natural resources department is overseeing habitat restoration on 135 acres, which will require closure of some areas to the public.

The $2.8 million restoration project will begin May 26 and last about seven months, according to a county news release May 15.

Heavy equipment will be used to enhance fisheries habitat and install native plants.

Crews also will use the closure time to construct

new pavilions, restrooms, kayak storage tubes, benches and trailside shade structures.

The restoration is being funded through a combination of grants, including a $1.5 million contribution from the National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration as a result of the Deep Water Horizon/BP Oil spill.

The Southwest Florida Water Management District and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission provided additional funding.

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Next comes the delicate process of relocation.

According to AMITWâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s permit with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, turtle watch volunteers must relocate eggs into a new nest by 9 a.m. the morning the original nest was found.

Each nest contains about 100 eggs, each roughly the size of a pingpong ball. â&#x20AC;&#x153;You canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t just pull them out in handfuls and give them a toss,â&#x20AC;? Fox said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;You have to try to keep them in the same position you pulled them out.â&#x20AC;?

She said within 12 hours of being deposited into the sand by a mature female sea turtle, the embryo of an egg adheres to the inside of the shell. Jostling the fluid within could drown the embryo.

She said one volunteer pulls the eggs out of the nest, keeping them in the same direction in which they were laid, while another carefully places them in a bucket, also facing the same way.

For loggerheads, volunteers must dig a 24-inchdeep cavity for the new nest. For green sea turtles, a larger species that nests less frequently on the island, the holes must be 36 inches deep. Fox said a replacement nest should match the shape and size of the original nest. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve got to duplicate the mama turtle,â&#x20AC;? she said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;If she laid it on an angle, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve got to dig it on an angle.â&#x20AC;?

She said the FWC tracks information provided by turtle watch and, when nests start hatching in 45-70 days, hatch rates will be considered. â&#x20AC;&#x153;If only two-thirds of the nests we relocated hatch, we will need to work with them and evaluate what happened,â&#x20AC;? Fox said.

But Fox said she is pleased with how the relocation work thus far has gone.

By the end of last nesting season, Oct. 31, 2019, turtle watch reported a record-breaking 535 loggerhead and nine green sea turtle nests on AMI. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We have a lot of work ahead of us,â&#x20AC;? Fox said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;But weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve got a really strong team to help pull off another great season.â&#x20AC;?

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the World Wildlife fund’s sea turtle resource kit for educators includes downloadable posters, as well as a certificate of achievement. the kit is available at worldwildlife.org. islander courtesy Photos

By Lisa Neff

Home-schooled on sea turtles

“Can sea turtles breathe under water?” I asked.

“Don’t you want to make that multiple choice?” my niece replied.

I was guiding her through a lesson plan on sea turtles via teleconference and getting an understanding of what parents are dealing with as they supervise home-based learning through the end of the academic year.

I come from a teaching family.

My dad spent his entire professional career as a teacher. My mom worked as a school secretary. Two of three siblings teach now and the third lectured in universities for a while. neff I also taught, as a substitute, for about three months after graduating from college. The job ended badly, with second-graders dancing on their desks and no new assignments for me.

But I’m terrific with kids as an aunt. I approached the lesson plan hoping for some laughs along with the learning and enticing with rewards. The promise of a hot-fudge sundae with mint-chocolate chip ice cream was more desirable than a certificate of achievement.

Multiple lesson plans related to sea turtles can be found online. Most are either for children in elementary or middle school and were either created by school rObINsON continued froM Page 16

“This phase of our restoration serves as an affirmation that out of the catastrophic fire and oil spillage from the Deep Water Horizon disaster, we can apply funding … in Robinson Preserve to create a resilient and diverse water quality environment today and for all generations to follow,” Charlie Hunsicker, parks and natural resources director, said in the release.

The preserve expansion was started in 2012 with a

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teachers or conservation groups.

5. Which sea turtles leave the water to lay eggs?

My teaching lesson concluded with a pop quiz. a. Males “Think you know all the answers?” I asked before b. Females presenting the quiz.

6. Which flippers do sea turtles use to dig the hole “I do now,” my niece replied. for the nest?

I told her how informed Anna Maria Islanders are a. Front about sea turtles because of the work of Anna Maria b. Back Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Nesting, the press 7. How many days does it take for the eggs to attention and the outspoken love for wildlife up and hatch? down the island.

8. Loggerhead sea turtle eggs are the size of softBut now I’m curious to see what you know. balls?

Here’s the quiz: a. True 1. How many types of sea turtles are there? b. False 2. What are some foods sea turtles eat?

9. Are sea turtles reptiles?

3. List two ways sea turtles differ from freshwater 10. Artificial light can make sea turtles get lost. turtles? a. True 4. Where do sea turtles live? b. False 11. Which species of sea turtles nest on Florida donation of the 150-acre parcel from the Conservation beaches?

Foundation of the Gulf Coast, which acquired the land 12. Can sea turtles breathe under water? at a discounted rate from the Robinson family using a See the answer key below. monetary pledge from the Mosaic Company FoundaHow’d you do? tion of $3.2 million.

You can email me at lisa@islander.org to claim Robinson Preserve first opened to the public in a certificate of achievement, but you’re on your own 2007 after habitat improvements were made to the when it comes to the hot-fudge sundae. original 482 acres.

The total area of the preserve exceeds 684 acres. Answer key The main entrance to the preserve is at 1704 99th 1 (7), 2 (seagrass, crabs, shrimp, jellyfish), 3 (flipSt. NW, Bradenton. pers instead of legs, larger than most land turtles), 4 The expansion entrance is at 10299 Ninth Ave. (the ocean), 5 (b), 6 (b), 7 (60), 8 (b), 9 (yes), 10 (a), NW, Bradenton.

11 (green, hawksbill, Kemp’s Ridley, leatherback and A third entrance is at 9800 Manatee Ave. W. loggerhead), 12. (no).

½-Ê

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Page 18 THE ISLANDER | islander.org May 20, 2020 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Atlantic hurricane season begins early, amid COVID-19 concerns

By Lisa neff islander editor

Arthur stirred up more than wind and rain.

The first tropical storm of the 2020 Atlantic season — which formed May 16 of Florida’s east coast —stirred up concern for dealing with disaster and coping with hurricanes amid the coronavirus pandemic.

The Florida Division of Emergency Management is expected this month to release guidance on how local government might want to handle storms.

Recommendations, mentioned during an April meeting of the state’s Re-Open Florida Task Force, might include sheltering evacuees in hotels instead of schools or other public buildings.

“Regarding COVID-19, the unique issues of this public health crisis may require emergency management officials to consider stay-at-home orders instead of evacuating people in a storm’s path,” reads the task force’s report to the governor. “If evacuations are required, transportation network companies, such as Uber and Lyft, may be considered in addition to buses to assist in evacuations. Further, utilizing additional school locations to add capacity to allow for greater social distancing, as well as hotels, may be considered in addition to current evacuation centers.”

The report also notes the importance of creating

Also, according to CSU, the probability of at least one major hurricane — a storm of Category 3 or higher — making landfall on the U.S. continental coastline is 69%. The average for the last century is 52%.

A forecast from the federal government, prepared by the National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration, will be released May 21.

The 2019 season produced 18 named storms, including six hurricanes, of which three were major.

2020 Atlantic hurricane season Last year marked the fourth consecutive aboveemergency plans for families and continuity plans for normal Atlantic hurricane season. The only other businesses, as well as setting aside cloth face cover- period on record that produced four consecutive abovenormal seasons was 1998-2001. ings.

Meteorologists with AccuWeather, a leading weather forecast service, predicted 14-18 tropical 2020 storm names storms during the 2020 Atlantic hurricane season, Arthur, Bertha, Cristobal, Dolly, Edouard, Fay, which extends from June 1 to Nov. 30.

Gonzalo, Hanna, Isaias, Josephine, Kyle, Laura, Seven to nine storms are forecast to become hurMarco, Nana, Omar, Paulette, Rene, Sally, Teddy, ricanes, and two to four are predicted to strengthen into Vicky and Wilfred. major hurricanes, according to AccuWeather.

Another early forecast, from Colorado State Unistorm Avengers series versity researchers in April, predicted “an above-average probability for major hurricanes making landfall Look in the May 27 issue for the first installalong the continental United States and in the Caribment of The Islander’s 2020 Storm Avengers bean.” series, with information about preparing for hurThe CSU forecast was for 16 named storms this ricane season. season — the average is 12.1.

storm tracking

Adult soccer returns to center pitch, horseshoes, golf still off course

By Kevin P. cassidy islander reporter

With the school year coming to a close in the next week or so, summer vacation should be days away for most of us, but what kind of summer will it be?

The only guarantees are that it will be hot and humid!

However, Gov. Ron DeSantis has loosened the leash, so to speak, on COVID-19 restrictions. While had not moved to phase 2 as of May 18, but operations were opening and expanding, including gyms and fitness centers, which were allowed to open at 50% capacity.

The decision was welcome news to the folks at the Center of Anna Maria Island, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria.

The center’s fitness center was set to open May 20.

After having CABB Facility Services sanitize at the center, including the fitness center, the center turned its attention to implementing new policies and procedures to ensure the safety of members, visitors and staff.

The center also was making plans to wrap up the adult indoor soccer season, which will migrate outdoors to the field.

The schedule will pick up with two weeks of season, followed by playoffs and championship matches.

The action will get started at 6 p.m. Thursday, May 21.

Other island sports endeavors remained on hold.

Tom Nelson of the Key Royale Club told The Islander that the club canceled the Memorial Day Scramble and cookout as it looked to June to resume matches.

a caBB facilities Services worker disinfects equipment in the center of anna Maria island’s fitness center in advance of its May 20 reopening. islander Photo: courtesy center

Members are playing rounds, but organized matches are on hold.

Also, the horseshoe group that typically congregates at the pits at Anna Maria City Hall is waiting on the city for an “all clear,” according to horseshoe group spokesman Jay Disbrow.

On the mainland, G.T. Bray Park, managed by the Manatee County Parks and Natural Resources Department, will remain closed throughout May. Park spokesman Marcus Francis encouraged organized sports leagues that use park facilities to have a plan or when the park opens the calendar for athletics.

Magic gears up for phase 3 tryouts While soccer activities are on hold, Manatee Magic, a competitive program for boys and girls within the Manatee Area Youth Soccer Association, opened online registration for tryouts.

Registration will allow MAYSO to contact players when tryout plans are set, which, according to the Florida Youth Soccer Association, will begin when Florida moves to phase 3 in the pandemic recovery plan.

There is no cost to try out and the Magic will not initiate payment plans for its select team players until the pandemic is in the rearview mirror and the season is a certainty.

Registration is online at mayso.org.

If you have any questions or concerns, feel free to email me, vice president of competitive soccer at info@mayso.org.

Meanwhile, if you have sports, fishing or event news and photos to share, please, submit them to news@ islander.org.

red tide researchers seek volunteers for health study A national $400,000 grant is intended to advance research into the impact of environmental agents — the red tide neurotoxin — on brain conditions, including Alzheimer’s disease.

The grant from the National Institute of Environmental Health and Sciences earlier this spring went to the Roskamp Institute and will enable research involving Manatee and Sarasota county residents.

“Hopefully, our research will show that there is no link between the Florida red tide brevetoxin exposure and an increase of neurological disorders,” Mike Mullan, a team leader in the Florida red tide project at the Sarasota institute, said in a news release.

He continued, “However, when you see metric tons of marine life being killed in a few weeks you realize how powerful the toxin is and, knowing that some of the effects of exposure can be long-lasting in other species, it makes sense to make sure that some-

thing similar is not happening in the human population — particularly in vulnerable populations.”

The researchers want to study the role of the immune system and differences in neurological effects between people who suffer severe symptoms from red tide and people who do not.

The study will involve recruiting 400 people in Manatee and Sarasota counties for three assessments that involve collecting blood and urine to measure brevetoxin and antibody levels.

The volunteers will be seen when no Florida red tide blooms are observed and also during periods when the toxins are present.

Roskamp’s previous work includes research that identified an excess of emergency room admissions for neurological complaints during the Florida red tide blooms of 2005-09.

— Lisa neff

About red tide

Florida red tide is caused by algae that bloom in the Gulf of Mexico under certain environmental conditions and release a neurotoxin called brevetoxin.

During a severe bloom, brevetoxin causes the death of large numbers of fish and marine mammals such as dolphins and manatees.

Although the exact cause of death in many affected species is unclear, research suggests that brevetoxin can cause inflammation to many organs.

How to participate

People interested in participating in the study can call the institute at 941-256-8019, ext. 3008.

May 20, 2020 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 19 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

The return of the king — the silver king runs in local waters

By Capt. Danny Stasny Islander Reporter

The long-awaited migration of tarpon to the waters surrounding Anna Maria Island is occurring, although the real push of fish has yet to arrive.

Targetable schools are here, but the numbers are spread thin.

And that’s not to say they weren’t being caught this past week.

In the weeks ahead, we should Stasny see a big influx in numbers of fish.

And while we wait for the larger mass of tarpon to arrive, the sharks already have taken notice. Reports of hammerheads and bull sharks chasing tarpon are being heard daily, with some hammerheads exceeding 15 feet in length, and the bulls aren’t far behind.

Seeing these majestic creatures in their element is truly fascinating. That is, as long as you’re not in the water. Seeing them from a boat or the beach is optimum.

So as the tarpon population increases in our waters, you can expect to see more large sharks.

On the flats, catch-and-release snook and trout are dominating the bite. Finding clean water is key to getting in on the action. Areas where clean water exists usually have good tidal flow, lush grass flats and are free from floating seaweed and other debris. Casting live shiners as bait is working best for the snook. As for the seatrout, casting soft plastics on a jig head works well.

Moving offshore, blackfin tuna are the highlight for yet another week. Other migratory fish such as kingfish, African pompano and cobia are being found. Bottom fishing for snapper is resulting in many mangroves and yellowtails. Red grouper are being reeled up from the depths, too.

On my own excursions with Southernaire charters, I’m finding the catch-and-release snook action quite exhilarating. Fishing swift tides in areas of clean, clear water is resulting in many catch-and-release snook on the hook for my sportfishing clients. Casting live shiners around mangroves and oyster bars is proving to work best. Most snook catches are following 20-26 inches.

As for the trout, deeper grass areas are holding good numbers of fish. Strong incoming tides seem to be the best when targeting these buck-toothed fish. Live freelined shiners or soft plastics are luring the trout to the hook.

Capt. Jason Stock is spending plenty of days on patrol along the beaches of Anna Maria Island and Longboat Key in search of tarpon. Scattered schools of fish are being found cruising within a few hundred yards of the beach, which makes them quite targetable in the clear waters of the Gulf of Mexico. Casting live crabs or threadfin herring is working to trigger a strike.

Michael Corbino of Longboat Key holds onto his May 14 catch, a 100-plus pound tarpon, just long enough for a trophy photo. Corbino was guided by Capt. Warren Girle in the nearshore waters of the Gulf of Mexico, where he hooked up the silver king on a pass crab.

And with the tarpon come the sharks. Bull and hammerhead are most frequently being sighted.

In fact, Stock managed to have a 16-18 foot hammerhead take a bait and briefly stay on the line.

Moving offshore, Stock is finding blackfin tuna accommodating his clients. While targeting the tuna, Stock is encountering more sharks, one of which happened to be a tiger shark estimated to be 20 feet. Gives a new meaning to “Tiger King.”

Capt. Aaron Lowman is targeting catch-and-release snook along the mangrove shorelines of the Manatee River and ranging north to the Sunshine Skyway Bridge.

Strong tides during the full moon were producing a great catch-and-release bite, but as the moon phase changed, the bite followed suit. Catch-and-release snook are being hooked frequently, but they’re just not as frenzied as during the full moon.

Catch-and-release spotted seatrout are being caught with regularity. Again, swift tides during the full moon produced a better bite then those tides occurring during the waning moon.

Capt. David White is investing most of his time pursuing tarpon. Fishing along the beaches of Anna Maria Island and Longboat Key is worthy of sighting schools of fish, as well as in the passes to the north and south of Egmont Key. Casting live pass crabs or threadfin herring is proving to attract some action from the silver kings.

Moving offshore, African pompano and blackfin tuna are being caught by White’s clients on baits fished

toward the surface.

Bottom fishing is resulting in red grouper, yellowtail and mangrove snappers. For bait, White is carrying an assortment — pinfish, sardines and shiners.

Capt. Warren Girle also is taking sportfishers to target tarpon along the Gulf beaches of Anna Maria Island and Longboat Key. Casting live pass crabs to schooling fish is Girle’s plan of attack.

Running up on fish that are daisy-chaining or slowly cruising in schools in depths of 10-20 feet of water just off the beach is producing action.

On a recent trip, Girle put a client on a hookup on the first cast of the day — a solid 100-pound fish.

Although this day started out with a bite, not every day does, but Girle is consistently leading clients to numerous hookups and trophy photos on his spring tarpon trips.

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

Fishing Charters

CAPT. AARON LOWMAN

Capt. Warren Girle

Anna Maria Island Tides

Date

AM

HIGH

PM

HIGH

May 20 May 21 May 22 May 23 May 24 May 25 May 26 May 27

10:55a 12:48a 1:34a 2:21a 3:13a 1:09p 1:52p 2:42p

2.2 1.5 1.5 1.4 1.4 2.7 2.7 2.6

4:41a 11:13a 11:35a 12:01p 12:33p — — —

0.9 2.4 2.5 2.6 2.7 — — —

AM

LOW

6:02p 0.1 5:00a 1.0 5:16a 1.1 5:30a 1.2 5:44a 1.3 9:20p -0.4 10:11p -0.4 11:07p -0.3

PM

— 6:38p 7:14p 7:52p 8:34p — — —

LOW

Moon

— -0.1 -0.2 New -0.3 -0.4 — — —

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

'ULF "AY &ISHINGs4ARPON 53'! ,ICENSED AND )NSURED

INSHORE RE Redfish Snook

Fishing tip! If you hook a bird, remember: Reel, remove, release!

Southernaire Fishing Charters

O OFFSHORE SSnapper G Grouper

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DOCKED AT SEAFOOD SHACK

Page 20 THE ISLANDER | islander.org May 20, 2020 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

I S L A N D E R C L A S S I F I E D S ITEMS FOR SALE

ANNOUNCEMENTS

HELP WANTED

HOLMES BEACH MISCELLANEOUS furniture.

Love seat, tables, chairs available in exchange for monetary donation to Roser Church. 941-7782824.

WANTED: WORKOUT DVDs and retired but working XBox, Wii units with games for Ministry of Presence for kids and teens in Haiti. Deliver to The Islander, 3218 E. Bay Drive, Holmes Beach.

REPORTER WANTED: Full- to part-time. Print media, newspaper, journalism, mass communications experience required. Apply via email with letter of interest to news@islander.org.

ANTIQUE PARTNER DESK: All wood, $1,000.

See at The Islander office, 3218 E. Bay Drive, Holmes Beach. 941-778-7978.

WANTED: YOUR OLD cellphone for recycling.

Deliver to The Islander, 3218 E. Bay Drive, Holmes Beach.

FOUR ANTIQUE OFFICE chairs: Perfect for eclectic dining set. $800. Circa 1950 from Anna Maria City Hall. The Islander newspaper, 3218 E. Bay Drive, Holmes Beach. 941-778-7978.

AERIAL PHOTOS of Anna Maria Island. View and purchase online: www.jackelka.com.

JESSIE’S ISLAND STORE has immediate openings for full and part-time cashiers for both day and night shifts. Apply in person at 5424 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach or call 941-778-6903.

FREE GUN LOCK courtesy of Project Childsafe, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and Holmes Beach Police Department. Pick up at The Islander office, 3218 E. Bay Drive, Holmes Beach. Don’t be sorry, be safe.

FREEBIE ITEMS FOR SALE Individuals may place one free ad with up to three items, each priced $100 or less, 15 words or less.

FREE, one week, must be submitted online. Email classifieds@islander.org, fax toll-free 1-866-3629821. (limited time offer)

LOST AND FOUND FOUND: PAIR OF expensive sunglasses. To claim, identify brand and beach visited recently.

Call Turtle Watch office, 941-778-5638.

Sandy’s Lawn Service Inc.

PETS

ESTABLISHED IN 1983

Residential & Commercial Full-service lawn maintenance.

Landscaping ~ Cleanups Hauling ~ Tree Trimming.

HELP RESCUED PETS! Volunteer, foster, computer help needed! Moonracer Animal Rescue.

Email: moonraceranimalrescue@gmail.com.

LICENSED & INSURED

Paradise Improvements

941.792.5600

Kitchen and Bath Remodeling Specialist Replacement Doors and Windows

Andrew Chennault

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

References available • 941-720-7519

AdoptA-Pet

ANSWERS TO MAY 20 PUZZLE

O B O E

A S I S

A H O Y

C O U N T M I S S

K I N S H I P

T A S M S T E M O U S A R A Y E R T I N T E Q T R O U R A B I E M I L S P E A

O L D S H E I L N M E E N U R E L A U N D E R

A D H E R E N T

M O D G E O M A D E R S I T C E E L E

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

B U D D I E S

A S I F

S M E L T

D E S F A S E L O R L U T E R I N G L E B I E S N T E E F U Z I N R T O A

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

SERVICES u fLY i drive your car anywhere in the uSa. airport runs, anywhere. office, 941-4476389. 941-545-6688.

NEED A RIDE to airports? Tampa $65, St. Pete, $55, Sarasota, $30. Gary, 863-409-5875. gvoness80@gmail.com.

TRANSPORTATION 2014 EZ-GO GOLF cart: Three-rows seats, gas, custom wheels. Candy apple red. $7,950. 813781-7562.

PRESSURE WASHING, PAVER sealing, driveway, roof, fence, pool area. Also, window cleaning.

Licensed and insured. 941-565-3931.

BOATS & BOATING

I DON’T CUT corners, I clean corners. Professional, friendly cleaning service since 1999. 941779-6638. Leave message.

BIMINI BAY SAILING: Small sailboat rentals and instruction. Day. Week. Month. Sunfish, Laser, Windrider 17 and Precision 15. Call Brian at 941685-1400.

WANTED: DOCK SPACE/boat lift/boat slip to rent or buy for 23-foot boat on Anna Maria Island. 203247-6405.

LocaL fiSHing guide for hire. Wanna catch more fish, have better bait, learn the local waters? Your boat, my knowledge. call nelly, 40 years local fishing experience. 941896-2915.

PropertyWatch

By Jesse Brisson

On vacation.

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

KLean MoVeS: BeSt movers in aMi. Small moves, long distance and local deliveries. no job too big or too small. Senior discounts.

941-877-6580. ask for reggie. KleanMoves. com.

HoMe WatcH: cottage Watch & Services LLc. Scott carpenter, Veteran uSn- a.H.i.t. certified home inspector. Licensed/insured contractor/realtor. rates starting as low as $25. 941-780-7004. for aLL tHe essential news, check out the islander website, islander.org.

Place classified ads online at www.islander.org

SPonSored BY

S A H L

KIDS FOR HIRE ads are FREE for up to three weeks for Island youths under 16 looking for work.

Ads must be placed in person at The Islander office, 3218 E. Bay Drive, Holmes Beach.

CLEANING: VACATION, CONSTRUCTION, residential, commercial and windows. Licensed and insured. 941-744-7983.

FISHING

Honey is 5 years old.

She is up to date with vaccinations, spayed and looking for a loving family.

To meet this sweetie, call Lisa Williams at 941-345-2441 or visit The Islander office in Holmes Beach.

For more about pet adoption or to adopt Honey, visit moonraceranimalrescue.com.

KIDS FOR HIRE

O K I E

L E E R

I N N S

S U P E R S

E X E C S

N E C K

F A I R C O U C H

A L E E

R I S D

S T A R

T H R U

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

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Sweeping views all the way to Bean Point! Huge swiming pool on the Gulf, covered parking, storage, elevator and much more. Well maintained complex. Come see all that Anna Maria Island Club has to offer. $769,000.

SURF SIDE New 4bed/4.5 bath/2car pool home with partial Gulf views, rooftop sundeck, incredible pool and spa area.

This amazing home was built with the details in mind, and the rental potential is through the roof. Call today.

941.713.4755

Jesse Brisson, Broker Associate, GRI 941-713-4755, jbrisson@kw.com

May 20, 2020 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 21 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

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

HOME IMPROVEMENT Continued

REAL ESTATE

NEED PERSONAL COMPANIONSHIP and/ or transportation to doctor’s appointments? I can also provide you with housecleaning, grocery shopping, cooking and some errands. Call Lillie at 330-883-2624.

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

TOWNHOUSE: 2BR, HEATED pool and boat slip. $189,000. Real Estate Mart, 941-356-1456.

ANYONE CAN TAKE a picture. A professional creates a portrait. I want to be at your wedding! www. jackelka.com. 941-778-2711.

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

941-778-5294.

LARRY’S BACK! SHELL delivered and spread. $55/yard. Hauling all kinds of gravel, mulch, topsoil with free estimates. Call Larry at 941-795-7775, “shell phone” 941-7200770.

CORNERSTONE OUTDOORS: LANDSCAPE, installs, tree trimming, full-service lawn maintenance, cleanups, pressure washing. 941-2841568.

RENTALS

CHRISTIE’S PLUMBING

TWO ISLAND CONDOS available for rent: 2BR/2BA or 3BR/3BA. Call 262-705-0909 for information.

Family Owned and Operated since 1975

RENTAL MANAGEMENT AVAILABLE at discounted fees. 30 years’ local experience. Real Estate Mart, 941-356-1456.

HOLMES BEACH: 2BR/2BA BEAUTIFULLY furnished, garage. Six-month availability. $1,750/ month plus utilities. No smoking, no pets. 941778-2824.

ANNUAL 2BR/2BA apartment in Holmes Beach.

Room for a boat. Laundry hookup. No pets. 941778-7039.

4BR/2BA WITH POOL and large sunroom, garage, walk to first bay beach. 703-5874675.

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

WANTED PET-FRIENDLY annual rental on Anna Maria Island. Prefer updated and spacious, at least 2BR/2BA or more. Wanting to start lease beginning of July/August. 214-854-6496.

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

Residential -iÀÛ Vi

iÜÊ ÃÌÀÕVÌ ÊUÊ,i `i } Ê* >ÃiÃÊ vÊ* Õ L }Ê,i«> ÀÊEÊ-iÀÛ Vi {£ ÇÇn Î Ó{ÊÊ ÀÊ {£ ÇÇn {{È£ÊUÊxxän Ê >À >Ê À Ûi]Ê iÃÊ i>V

Landscape Design Lawn Care Cleanups Stone Paths Licensed and Insured

Island Limousine and Airport Transportation

Prompt, Courteous Service U New Vehicles 941.779.0043

,IVERY )NSUREDs !IRPORT 0ERMITTED

55-PLUS TRAILER Estate: Bradenton. 2BR open kitchen, living room, screened-in porch, carport, close to the beach and shopping. Small dog or indoor cat. First, last and security deposit. Yearly lease. 413-320-1149.

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

The Islander is Anna Maria Island’s longest running publication. It’s essential news for residents and visitors. Check out the website, islander.org.

#CFC1426596

BEACH SERVICE air conditioning, heat, refrigeration. Commercial and residential service, repair and/or replacement. Serving Manatee County and the Island since 1987. For dependable, honest and personalized service, call Bill Eller, 941-7957411. CAC184228.

HANDYMAN AND PAINTING. No job too small.

Most jobs just right. Call Richard Kloss. 941-2041162.

ATTENTION: FOR SALE by owners. List now at discount fees. 30 years’ local experience. Real Estate Mart, 941-356-1456.

ANNUAL 2BR/2BA DUPLEX off Cortez. 3.5 miles to beach. Fenced yard, washer and dryer hookups, covered parking, non-smoking, pet friendly. $1,100/month. 941-721-8480. MondayFriday 9 a.m.-5 p.m., or email mehall@nclaimsadjusters.com.

SWEET 2BR/2BA FOR all/part June through September. Holmes Beach. Great location. Walk to beach. 231-670-6697.

CLASSIFIED AD ORDER

rg

er.o d n a l s i www.

____________ ___________ ___________ ___________ ___________ ___________ ___________

HURRICANE

Windows & Doors 941-730-5045 WEATHERSIDE LLC

LIC#CBC1253145

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

I make dirty windows sparkling clean. 941-9203840.

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

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

Bed: A bargain!

King, Queen, Full & Twin, pre-owned from $30 new/used.

941-922-5271 www.sleepking.net

p ro fe s s i o n a l

PHOTOGRAPHY VIDEO Advertising Real Estate Resorts Restaurants Web/Social Media

941-778-2711

____________ ___________ ___________ ___________ ___________ ___________ ___________

ne i l n o s d ad

at

____________ ___________ ___________ ___________ ___________ ___________ ___________

ssifi a l c e c Pla

e

____________ ___________ ___________ ___________ ___________ ___________ ___________ 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) _________

_________

_________

IMPROVE YOUR CURB APPEAL! Horticultural Design Services | Landscape Construction Landscape Maintenance | Irrigation Installation & Repair Brick & Stone Pavers | Walls, Gates, Fences | Tree Trimming Low Volt Outdoor Lighting Repair & Installation

_________ or TFN start date: ______________

Amt. pd _________________ Date _____________ Ck. No.� _________ Cash � _______ By _________

d � u No.

_____________________________________________________

Name shown on card: ____________________________________________card exp. date ______ /______ House no. or P.O. box no. on cc bill ________________________Billing address zip code ________________ Your e-mail for renewal reminder: ____________________________________________________________

Web site: www.islander.org 3218 E. Bay Drive Holmes Beach FL 34217

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

FOR MORE INFO 941.704.9025 ShadyLadyFL.com OUR BEST PRACTICES PROMISE IS APPLIED TO RESIDENTIAL OR COMMERCIAL CONSTRUCTION & MAINTENANCE.

317924

Credit card payment: �

Page 22 THE ISLANDER | islander.org May 20, 2020 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Back to the beach, back in business

a waiter serves a couple May 16 on the outdoor deck at the anna Maria oyster Bar on the Historic Bridge Street Pier in Bradenton Beach.

People sun May 13 on the shore at coquina Beach, a county-run facility in Bradenton Beach that fully reopened after a week with parking restrictions. islander Photos: ryan Paice

Publix Super Markets returning to regular hours

Publix Super Markets expanded shopping hours intended to slow the spread of COVID-19. to 7 a.m.-9 p.m., including the Holmes Beach store at Expanded hours went into effect May 16.

3900 E. Bay Drive.

An announcement from Publix stated, “Thank you The company had shifted and reduced store for your patience over the past several weeks while hours to deal with public health and safety guidelines we’ve operated under reduced hours.

“With our newly expanded hours, we will suspend reserved shopping hours. We do understand some customers prefer to shop when the stores are less crowded.

We encourage you to shop during the first hour of the Your Home. My Priority. day, when we can better accommodate that need.”

Hi, I’m Lisa Marie Allen: A graduate of the University of Florida (Go Gators!) and an extreme Tampa Bay Lightning fan, often seen in the company of my Borzoi. I have just returned “home” to the place I love, Anna Maria Island, after a hiatus in Western New York.

I’m dedicated to finding you a home, whether you prefer the beach, downtown or wide open spaces.

FOR SALE: 2202 Avenue B, Bradenton Beach. 6 Bed/4 Bath: $999,000.

Runaway Bay #220, 1801 Gulf Dr. N., Bradenton Beach: $339,000.

KEY ROYALE WATERFRONT

KEY ROYALE WATERFRONT

Business news

Reopening to planning new services? New in business? Celebrating achievements? Staff deserves kudos?

Submit details to news@islander.org. Please, remember to include a contact number and name.

Mike Norman Realty INC

Diana Sinisi Diana Sinisi

Salty Real Estate Estate Salty Mermaid Mermaid Real 5306 Blvd 5306 Holmes Holmes Blvd Holmes FL 34217 34217 Holmes Beach, Beach, FL

Callme, me,your yourlocal localrealtor, realtor, Call forbuying, buying,selling, selling, or or for investing. investing.

OFFERING THE BEST SELECTION OF SALES & RENTALS ON ANNA MARIA ISLAND SINCE 1978

941-564-0035 941-564-0035 Whatmatters matterstoto you, you, What matters to me. matters to me.

www.mikenormanrealty.com 31o1 Gulf Drive, Hholmes Beach 800-367-1617 | 941-778-6696

dianas@saltymermaidami.com dianas@saltymermaidami.com www.saltymermaid.com

WE TWEET TOO Lisa Marie Allen | PROUD SALES AGENT @ WAGNER REALTY Reach me on my cell: 941.720.6674 or email LMAllenRealtor@gmail.com

For more information about operations during the coronavirus pandemic, call the island Publix at 941778-5422.

 

@ami_islander

     

UNOBSTRUCTED VIEWS OF THE SKYWAY BRIDGE



  



609 N POINT DRIVE 3 BR | 2.5 BA | 2,360 SF OFFERED AT $1,190,000

602 BARONET LANE 4 BR | 2 BA | 1,855 SF OFFERED AT $779,000

710 S BAY BOULEVARD 3 BR | 2 BA | 2 HB | 2,490 SF OFFERED AT $2,100,000

, Ê VILLA Ó ,ÉÓ Ê «À Û>Ìi]Ê }>Ìi`Ê V Õ ÌÞ°Ê fÎÇn]nää°

ALSO AVAILABLE 4 BR | 4 BA | Beach block vacation rental home with Gulf views | $2,495,000 | Call for details

7 i Ê ÌÊV iÃÊÌ ÊLÕÞ }Ê ÀÊÃi }Ê Þ ÕÀÊ i]Ê* i>Ãi]Ê Ê Ê ,-/t

Hannah Hillyard REALTOR ®

iÌÊ ÞÊÞi>ÀÃÊ vÊiÝ«iÀ i ViÊÜ À Êv ÀÊÞ Õ°Ê

941.744.7358

—

George Myers REALTOR ®

941.224.6021

6000 Marina Drive 113 Holmes Beach, FL 34217

Chantelle

Chantelle Lewin Broker Associate Licensed since 1983 941.713.1449

WWW.CHANTELLELEWIN.COM ÊÊÊÊ7>} iÀÊ,i> ÌÞÊUÊÓÓ£ÇÊ Õ vÊ À ÛiÊUÊ À>`i Ì Ê i>V

RELEASE DATE: 5/17/2020

New York Times Sunday Magazine Crossword

May 20, 2020 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 23 No. 0510 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

SHIFTING SOUNDS

BY BEN ZIMMER AND BRENDAN EMMETT QUIGLEY / EDITED BY WILL SHORTZ Ben Zimmer is the language columnist for The Wall Street Journal, a contributing writer for The Atlantic and a former language columnist for The New York Times. Brendan Emmett Quigley is a professional crossword constructor. They met some 12 years ago when Brendan began contributing crosswords to the Visual Thesaurus, where Ben was the executive editor. The making of this puzzle — brainstorming the theme, filling the grid and writing the clues — was a full collaboration. Brendan has had many puzzles in The Times. This is Ben’s debut. — W.S.

AC RO SS

1 Smashing 6 Wide-eyed in wonder 10 Woofer output 14 Casual vodka order 19 Bubbling 20 Pricey 21 Alma mater of Grant and Lee: Abbr.

22 Board-game piece 23 Dog’s order at a malt shop?

25 The “day” in “seize the day” 26 “Arrival” visitor 27 You can see right through it 28 Part of H.M.S. 29 “Game of Thrones” patriarch has difficulties?

32 Zora Neale Hurston’s “____ Eyes Were Watching God” 34 Stand-up comic Kondabolu 35 Drum heard in raga music 36 Creator of Christopher Robin 38 Beat out by a hair 40 Big name in ratings 44 Male sailors 45 Words of affirmation 47 Upscale 48 Android alternative 49 ____ Mahal 51 Kind of diet Online subscriptions: Today’s

puzzle and more Answers: than 4,000 past puzzles, page 20 nytimes.com/crosswords ($39.95 a year).

53 Chest muscle, informally 54 The “S” of 48-Across 58 Advised a chess player to attack the king?

65 Spanish unit of time with a tilde 66 Yoda, to Luke 67 Shows as an encore presentation 68 A fingerprint can leave one 70 Cell no., say 71 Strips of weapons 72 Coming from two speakers 73 Frequent choice for maid of honor 75 Deg. for an aspiring attorney abroad 76 Part of Disney’s advertising budget?

78 How some pranks might go 82 Constellation with a palindromic name 83 Scat syllable for Sinatra 84 Hula loop 86 Academy Award winner for “Moonlight” and “Green Book” 87 Dr. Seuss character who becomes “King of the Mud” 91 Sushi condiment 95 Birds that can recognize themselves in mirrors 99 Beyond sad, or beyond happy 101 Some piercing spots 102 Categorically stated

103 Indubitably 105 Bellybutton fluff 106 Bordeaux wine region 107 Decisively defeat a cabinet department?

111 Musical knack 112 Share on social media 115 Like a zealous fan base 116 School attended by 20 prime ministers 117 Feeling one gets under anesthesia at the dentist?

120 Rat in “Ratatouille” 121 Word before or after run 122 Memo heading 123 Prize for a doc, maybe 124 Stick a fork in 125 Weapon with a bell guard 126 Loathsome person 127 Indira Gandhi’s father DOWN

1 Comedian Mort 2 Instrument from the French for “high wood” 3 Bad shot by Dracula?

4 Affinity 5 Lacking originality 6 Follower 7 Prepare, with “up” 8 Symbol of sturdiness 9 ____ launcher 10 Close pals 11 “Yeah, right!”

12 Process, as ore

13 Language with only 14 native letters 14 He made his final cameo in “Avengers: Endgame” 15 Spilled one’s soul 16 ’30s migrant 17 Unwelcome look 18 Places to exchange dollars for quarters 24 Stand out from the crowd 30 Little bits of energy 31 Competitor of eBay 33 Tree that lines the Central Park Mall 34 Debut single for both Jimi Hendrix and Patti Smith 36 Flaws and all 37 Shout for 44-Across 39 Put off for another day 41 Building caretakers 42 Higher-ups in a hierarchy 43 Part of a guitar 46 One on the road in “On the Road” 50 Maker of Instant Feathers and Hi-Speed Tonic 52 Laura of “Marriage Story” 55 Does some broncobusting, e.g.

56 Accustom (to) 57 Broadband device 59 Loosen, in a way 60 Banned display of firepower, informally 61 Conductor Georg with 31 Grammys 62 Passed out in Vegas

1

2

3

4

5

6

19

9

10

24

27

28 32

29

33

11

37

49 55

56

57

26

30

65 68

39

40 46

51 59

60

52

70

88

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108

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113

114

79

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86 96

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102 105

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77 Plane-ticket info 79 Comfy seating at a carnival?

80 Downwind, at sea 81 New England art inst.

85 “Mind. Blown.”

88 Shot served with salt and lime 89 Clean 90 Lexicographer Partridge 92 Singer Knowles with a 2016 No. 1 album 93 Ever so slightly

118

112

120

63 Gambino crime family patriarch 64 Attractive but vacuous guy, in slang 68 Mary, Queen of Scots, e.g.

69 Prod 71 Prod 72 Philosopher Kierkegaard 73 “Salud!” cousin 74 Heed an army poster 76 “Will you allow me to demonstrate?”

80

64

85

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109

63

78

91

103

43

75

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42

71 74

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41

53 62

77

87

18

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82

17

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50 58

14

25

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38

54

12

21

34

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107

8

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23

36

7

94 Perk from work 96 Tex who animated Bugs Bunny 97 Diploma equivalent, in brief 98 Make an engaging offer?

100 British spy Christopher in 2016 news 104 Legally prohibit 107 Parisian equivalent to “molto” or “muy” 108 Increase, with “up”

119

109 Stage prize since 1956 110 It distinguishes meaning in many East Asian languages 111 Fitch of Abercrombie & Fitch 113 Red carpet interviewee 114 Traffic-sign word 118 Card-game call 119 Sun follower?

Visit WWW.ISLANDER.ORG for the best news on Anna Maria Island.

FOR FREE HOME DELIVERY OF THE ISLANDER ON Anna Maria ISLAND* — CALL 941-778-7978 Sorry, we cannot deliver single copies to condominium units or mobile homes.

Page 24 THE ISLANDER | islander.org May 20, 2020 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................