Headline News From The Islander

Al Hogle, Longboat Key police chief, was killed May 14 in a motorcycle crash in North Carolina.

According to Longboat Key Police Capt. Bill Tokajer, Hogle was riding with a group of friends in the mountains of North Carolina when the crash occurred.

Capt. Tokajer said Hogle was a great man, a good mentor, as well as his boss, and they were close. “He was a friend and a good Christian,” Tokajer said.

Hogle, who was in his early 60s, was formerly with the Sarasota Police Department. He served on the Sarasota City Commission, and also as mayor before taking the position of chief of the Bradenton Police Department. He served as Longboat Key’s police chief for the past 10 years.

“The entire Longboat Key police department is grieving,” Tokajer told NewsManatee. He will be greatly missed.”

Mike Quinn, publisher of NewsManatee.com contributed to this report.

That brown-looking scum that some Island beach-walkers recently reported seeing washed up along the shoreline is not from an oil spill, as some think, but is an alga common in the Gulf of Mexico that has mixed with ordinary reddish-brown seaweed.

Hayley Rutger of Mote Marine Laboratory on City Island in Sarasota, said scientists at the laboratory have identified the algae as Trichodesmium. Although it is generally found farther out in the Gulf of Mexico, Rutger said its appearance is not unusual.

“Although for many years we don’t see any along the beach,” she said.

At the same time as the brown Trichodesmium algae is washing ashore, so is common reddish-brown seaweed. When the two combine on the shore, it appears much like that from an oil spill, she said.

The algae is not considered harmful to humans, but Mote scientists are studying samples from several beaches along Florida’s west coast to ensure there is no harmful bacteria or red tide algae hidden in the substance.

When Trichodesmium washes ashore with ordinary seaweed, Rutger said, it can give off a “rotten odor” as it decomposes.

Rutger said red-brown seaweed is common along area beaches this time of year, but Trichodesmium usually stays further out in the Gulf — unless currents carry it to shore.

Manatee County Natural Resources Department director Charlie Hunsicker said Trichodesmium is “not a prelude to red tide” because of different conditions in the water.

County work crews will be cleaning the algae and seaweed from county beaches, but not from areas where private homes and businesses front the Gulf of Mexico.

He said the algae should not leave behind “large masses of decaying vegetation,” but a “fine particle residual.”

Although the Trichodesmium algae is not harmful to bathers or beach walkers, Hunsicker said it’s always possible someone might have an allergic reaction because of their own physiology. “But I’m not a medical doctor to comment on that,” he said.

Rutger said red tide usually produces sore throats and sinus issues in people who have been in or near water containing the red tide algae. Red tide, known scientifically as Karina Brevis, kills fish when it forms in the Gulf, she said.

Mote scientists will continue to monitor area Gulf waters for the next few weeks for any algae problems, including red tide, Rutger said.

Anna Maria Mayor Mike Selby said last week he will not seek a second term in the November city election.

The mayor said it took him longer than he expected to make his decision, but believes it is the right choice for himself, the city and his family.

“I took this on in 2010 with the idea of bridging the gap. I think things have toned down a bit and people are dealing with the issues that face the city,” he said.

Getting people to discuss issues rationally was one of the reasons he sought the office in 2010, he said.

“It’s been an interesting time for me personally and I have been blessed with a phenomenal staff that helped and supported me through the past year and a half.

“There are several things I want to see move forward during my remaining time in office, and then I know there will be someone who will step in and continue to move the city in the right direction,” Selby said.

When he ran for office in 2010, the city was in turmoil with supporters of then-Commissioner Harry Stoltzfus on one side, and those who supported development of Pine Avenue on the other side.

The dispute sparked a number of lawsuits against the city, and eventually hundreds of Stoltzfus’ e-mails were uncovered, including some unflattering to then-Mayor Fran Barford. Some people suggested Stoltzfus’ previously undisclosed e-mails to citizens about city business may have violated Florida’s Government-in-the-Sunshine Laws.

Stoltzfus was recalled from office in a special election Sept. 9, 2010, and Selby was convinced by supporters just before the deadline for the regular city election in November to register as a candidate for mayor. Barford did not seek a third term in office.

Had Selby not sought the office, planning and zoning board chair Sandy Mattick would have been the only candidate to qualify and she would have taken office.

Selby maintains he only considered serving one term when first elected, but reviewed his position after encouragement from a number of voters.

No one has yet announced plans to seek the mayor’s post or a seat on the commission in the Nov. 6 election.

Sandy Mattick said she would not run again for mayor as she has a new job that would interfere with the duties of mayor, she said.

Commissioner Jo Ann Mattick, whose third term expires in November, said she has not given any serious thought to a fourth term. “It’s too early to think about running again,” she said.

Likewise, Commission Chair Chuck Webb, who also is up for re-election in November, said it’s too early to make a decision.

Planning and zoning board member Nancy Yetter was defeated in November 2011 in her bid for a commission seat, and had said then she would likely run again in 2012. Efforts to reach Yetter for comment prior to press deadline for The Islander were unsuccessful.

But Webb, Jo Ann Mattick, and anyone considering a run for municipal or county office must decide soon.

The Manatee County Supervisor of Elections office has set qualifying for city and county candidates from noon Monday, June 4, to noon Friday, June 8, although Anna Maria is qualifying candidates May 29-June 8, in order to prepare for primary voting in August, although the city elections do not take part in the primary.

In previous election years, qualifying did not begin until July or August.

Elections in all three Island cities for a commission seat or the mayor’s office are non-partisan.

The terms of all Anna Maria elected officials are for two years. A commissioner is paid $400 per month, while a mayor’s salary is $800 per month.

Many Island residents and accommodation industry owners, managers and rental agents are thanking their lucky stars for the fare-free Island trolley.

Ridership of the trolley, which began operating in 2002, set a one-month record in March 2012 with 64,663 passengers. That outdistanced March 2011 — the previous one-month record — by 21.5 percent, when 53,238 passengers boarded the trolley.

The trolley carried 172,549 passengers in the three-month period from February-April 2012, an increase of 24.8 percent from the 138,238 passengers who rode the trolley during the same three months in 2011, according to figures on the Manatee County website.

Without the fare-free trolley, a lot more cars and drivers would be on Island roads every day, said Holmes Beach Police Chief Jay Romine.

He said that without the trolley the Island might have had serious congestion on its roads many days during the season. Additionally law enforcement officers from all three Island cities might have been pressed into service as traffic control officers on many occasions, were it not for the trolley taking vehicles off Island roads.

“Thank you trolley,” said Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce president Mary Ann Brockman.

“Without the trolley, it would have been extremely difficult to move around the Island this past season,” said David Teitelbaum, owner of four Bradenton Beach resorts.

“And it appears this was the best season on record. I would not be surprised if we had nearly 150,000 visitors for that three-month period,” he said.

Brockman said the fare-free trolley is one of the major boosts for Island tourism, allowing people to come to the Island, park their car, and just use the trolley. It keeps cars off Island roads, provides a safe environment for travel and has become somewhat of a tourist attraction in its own right, she said.

Without the trolley, the Island might not have been able to sustain its tourism growth the past four years, she acknowledged.

Teitelbaum agreed.

“The trolley kept the Island moving this past season. So many people come up to me and say the free trolley is one of the reasons, often the major reason, they decided to come to the Island. I shudder to think where we would be without it,” he said.

With all four properties booked solidly from February through April and from what other accommodation owners, managers and agents have said, Teitelbaum believes it was a record three months for visitors to the Island.

Teitelbaum’s prediction of a record appears to be backed by the trolley passenger figures.

In February 2012, trolley ridership was reported at 49,044, an increase of 40.1 percent from the 35,012 for the same month in 2011.

April 2012 was also a busy month. The county website reports 58,842 riders took advantage of the free service that month, an increase of 17.7 percent from the 50,025 trolley passengers reported for April 2011.

“It all points toward a record year for tourism,” Teitelbaum said.

At the same time, however, some believe the Island should be careful it can accommodate continued growth in the tourism industry.

Anna Maria Commissioner SueLynn said everyone in the tourism industry — property owners and managers, developers and builders of vacation rentals, rental agents, and marketing specialists at the Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau need to stop and take a deep breath.

“Please, don’t’ misunderstand me. I love tourism. It’s the lifeblood of our economy. But we only have a finite amount of space on the Island, and only so many parking spaces,” she said.

“We have to ask if we are over-selling tourism to the Island to a point where we can’t accommodate everyone? Our advertising is doing a wonderful job of drawing visitors,” she observed.

However, she said, as elected officials, she and her colleagues need to take a long look at where Island tourism is headed, “not just in Anna Maria, but throughout the Island.”

A third member of the Bradenton Beach Planning and Zoning Board has resigned following a contentious May 3 city commission meeting laden with accusations and arguments aimed at P&Z members.

Longtime board member and former city commissioner Bill Shearon submitted his resignation May 4, while P&Z chair Rick Bisio, after having served for 10 years, also submitted his resignation following the May 3 meeting.

At the meeting, Bradenton Beach Commissioner Ric Gatehouse accused P&Z of presenting a “colored and tainted” recommendation swayed by personal bias in its decision to deny the city’s joint development agreement with the BeachHouse Restaurant to build a dune and parking lot across from city hall and next to the restaurant.

P&Z outlined eight violations to the city’s land development code in reaching its decision.

The Commission disregarded the P&Z recommendation to deny the project and approved it following Gatehouse’s accusations and city attorney Ricinda Perry’s claims that P&Z qualifications were substandard to city staff.

In a letter dated May 10, P&Z board member Joyce Kramer cited her reasons for resigning, noting that staying on the board would serve no purpose.

“The work and time demanded of the P&Z board is not valued and taken seriously,” Kramer wrote. “Commissioner Gatehouse made this clear in his comments to the public at the commission meeting.”

Kramer said Gatehouse’s perception of P&Z having a preconceived notion based on personal opinions was inaccurate.

“I can attest to the fact that we came to the meeting having done our homework and knowing that this proposal was in violation of a number of land-development code regulations,” she said.

Kramer said Gatehouse’s comments were “inappropriate, as well as being disrespectful, dismissive, and arrogant. It is not the way to treat volunteers who have devoted much time to this issue.”

Kramer next noted Perry’s comments dismissing the expertise of P&Z members.

“(Perry) made it clear that the fact finding and decisions of the P&Z board are not of any value when she pointed out at the meeting that commissioners must base their decision on the word of ‘experts’ and the staff,” said Kramer.

“So what is the point of the P&Z work?” she asked.

Kramer said based on the comments of Gatehouse and Perry, P&Z “does not matter” and the existence of a P&Z board is simply “going through the motions.”

While P&Z was accused of making a baseless decision, Kramer said it is commissioner decisions that are being made without considering the P&Z findings.

“Not only was (the May 3 decision to approve the project) woefully inadequate, it did not list our finding of facts for our denial,” she said, noting that Commissioner Gay Breuler admitted she bases her decisions on staff recommendations first and foremost.

Kramer said she is concerned about the future of P&Z and what, if any impact, it will have on the city.

“When I applied to serve on the board in 2011 my application was approved by the commissioners,” she said. “I wasn’t even interviewed about why I wanted to serve.”

She said no formal training was offered, and new members were left to learn from experienced members.

Kramer wonders how new board members can learn with the loss of such experience, pointing to P&Z member Jo Ann Meilner as the last board member with experience.

Meilner has not gone on record as announcing a resignation, but also has not said she will remain.

“I am deeply disappointed with the tone and conduct of the (commissioners), but I am far more dissatisfied with the manner in which the interests of our citizens are treated and the decision-making process is conducted. Our city deserves better,” Kramer said.

    Holly Connelly was found guilty May 11 of charges she schemed to defraud more than $50,000 from the Key Royale Club by Twelfth Judicial Circuit Court Judge Thomas Krug at the Manatee County Judicial Center, Bradenton.

     “It was an open plea to the court,” said assistant state attorney Christopher Nigro. “She pleaded no contest” and the court adjudicated the embezzlement charges with a finding of guilt, he said.

         Connelly’s sentencing hearing will be at 1:30 p.m. Friday, July 27. At the sentencing, Nigro expects the court to hear testimony from Connelly’s family and friends and from the victims.

    Connelly faces a maximum sentence of 30 years in prison on the first-degree felony of defrauding her former employer. She was the bookkeeper for the Holmes Beach club between June 2008 and April 2011.

    Connelly pleaded not guilty in August of 2011 and originally demanded a jury trial.

    The plea heads off a May 21 trial date. The case was set for hearing May 7, but then was continued to May 11.

    An affidavit of Holmes Beach Police Department Detective Michael Leonard indicates Connelly embezzled $387,181 during three years of employment by writing checks to herself and by forging and depositing checks directly into her own bank account.

    A Holmes Beach police investigation into embezzlement at the club, 700 Key Royale Drive, Holmes Beach, led to Connelly’s arrest.

    Following her June arrest and detention in Manatee County jail, she was released on $15,000 bond, after the original $500,000 bail was reduced by an Aug. 31 court order.

    Connelly was required to surrender her passport, live in Manatee County, and observe a curfew that prohibited her from leaving her residence 7 p.m.-7 a.m. except for work purposes. She also was required to wear an ankle monitor 24 hours a day until the disposition of her case.

    On another Connelly court matter, a child support enforcement matter case, a notice of delinquency was filed May 1 against Phillip D. Connelly, charging him with $1,337 in child support arrears.

    Holly Connelly is represented now by assistant public defender Jennifer Fury. At Islander press time, Fury had not returned calls for comment.

        Krug will preside over the Connelly sentencing at the Manatee County Courthouse, Room 6A, 1051 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton.

There are no leads in the search for paddleboarder Jeffrey Comer, 50, who went missing April 29 while paddleboarding in Gulf of Mexico waters off the shore of Fort De Soto Park in Pinellas County.

Comer’s paddleboard was found adrift by a boater near Holmes Beach, his wallet and keys tucked safely aboard the craft.

The board was discovered late April 29 and reported the following morning. Rescue agencies, including the U.S. Coast Guard, launched a search-and-rescue effort, but suspended the search later that day.

Police still have not ruled out any possibilities in the case, but with no new information or leads, have ceased providing updates. The last update provided on the missing man was April 30, the day the search began and ended.

The competitive paddleboarder was described as being fit, with no medical conditions, and his vehicle was discovered near Fort De Soto at Mullet Key where he set off into Gulf waters on his board. There was no evidence at the site of his vehicle of foul play.

While the waters off Fort De Soto Park are a popular spot for water enthusiasts, those same waters are said to be dangerous, known for high waves and strong currents.

Comer is described as 5-feet-8-inches tall, bald with blue eyes.

Anyone with information on the missing paddleboarder, is asked to call the Tampa Police Department at 813-354-6600 or dial 911.

Marina Drive from 59th Street to 62nd Street in Holmes Beach will be closed from May 16-23 for construction of stormwater drainage lines by the city, according to Bob Shaffer of the building department.

A detour will move traffic on 59th, 60th and 62nd streets to Holmes Boulevard and back onto Marina Drive.

Installation of new sewer lines on North Shore Drive at Cypress Avenue in Anna Maria by the Manatee County Utilities Department is ongoing and the project should last several months, according to the department.

Traffic on North Shore Drive should not be affected by the work, a MCUD press release.

Daytime-only repairs to the Longboat Key Bridge/State Road 789 are continuing, a Florida Department of Transportation press release said.

The east sidewalk of the bridge and Greer Island — often called Beer Can Island — near the bridge are closed. The draw will open for boaters on demand.

Completion of the project is expected at the end of May and no construction activity is planned for Memorial Day weekend.

More information on the bridge project is available online at www.mySR789.com.

Marilyn Jean Bradow

Marilyn Jean Bradow, 84, of Bradenton, died May 5. She was born in Hinsdale, Ill., and moved to Bradenton in 1957 from La Range, Ill.

Mrs. Bradow was a Lutheran.

Services will be private for the family. Brown & Sons Funeral Homes & Crematory 43rd Street Chapel is in charge of arrangements. Condolences may be made online at www.brownandsonsfuneral.com.

Mrs. Bradow is survived by sons Lance of Coleman, Ala., Stuart of Deltona, Fla., and Mark of Bradenton; seven grandchildren; and eight great-grandchildren.

 

Derek Freno

Derek Freno, 28, died April 29. He was a long-time resident of Bradenton, and formerly lived on Anna Maria Island. He was born April 6, 1984, in Wheeling, W.Va.

He loved animals, enjoyed fishing and was an avid Miami Dolphin fan.

A service was held in Bellaire, Ohio, May 3, and a a memorial service will be held at a later date in Bradenton for family and friends

Mr. Freno is survived by his mother, Kelly Dobbins Freno of Bradenton; father, Don and wife Mitzie of Ohio; brothers Dustin and Dylan Dobbins; stepbrother Randy Ramsey, stepsisters Denise Ramsey and Tammi Warner of Ohio, and Michelle Trinkeller of North Carolina; and many aunts, uncles, neices, nephews and cousins.

 

Alma ‘Amy’ Kennedy Hook

Alma “Amy” Kennedy Hook died Nov. 29, 2011, in Houston. She was born Oct. 1, 1922, in St. Alban’s, W.Va.

Mrs. Hook spent her retirement years in Bradenton with her husband, Ted. Her many interests included golf, Methodist Womens church circle, AAUW, and volunteer work at the Island Branch Library.

A celebration of life will be held at 11 a.m. Thursday, May 24, with a reception to follow at Faith United Methodist Church, 7215 First Ave. W., Bradenton.

 

Maynard V. Pinkham

Maynard V. Pinkham, 71, of Anna Maria, died May 12. He was born June 8, 1941, in Village of Freeport, N.Y.

Mr. Pinkham served two years in the U.S. Army and was stationed in Germany. As a young man, he worked in the resort industry and managed a hotel in Great Exuma, Bahamas.

He was a union carpenter and master craftsman for 21 years, and was in charge of construction for Harrah’s Hotel and Casino in South Lake Tahoe. He was president of the South Tahoe Swim Team for several years and enjoyed traveling and officiating at the swim meets. After retiring to Anna Maria 15 years ago, his hobbies included building furniture, fishing, boating and driving his yellow Corvette.

A service will be held in Boothbay Harbor, Maine, at a later date. A celebration of life will be held at 5 p.m. Wednesday, May 16, at Roser Memorial Church Church with a reception immediately following. Memorial donations may be made to the Roser Church food pantry, P.O. Box 247, Anna Maria FL 34216.

Mr. Pinkham is survived by his wife of 44 years, Linda; son Brett of Anna Maria, daughter Heather Nyberg of Bradenton; sister Janice Raymond of California; grandchildren Alyssa Bosch, Amanda Bosch and Andrew, all of Bradenton, and Adam Zell of Las Vegas; and many nieces and nephews.

 

Antoinette Scanio

Antoinette Scanio, 97, died May 11 in her home surrounded by family. She was born March 9, 1915, in Tampa, and moved to Anna Maria Island in 1946, where she co-founded the IGA Grocery Store in Anna Maria.

Mrs. Scanio was a member of the Roser Memorial Community Church.

A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m., Saturday, May 19, at the Roser Memorial Chapel.

Memorial contributions can be made to the Anna Maria Island Community Center and Tidewell Hospice.

She is survived by daughters Rosemary and husband Roy Griscom and Marie and husband Norman Franklin; grandchildren Dawn Bates and Dina Franklin; and great- grandchildren Johnathon, Tiffany, Tyler and Travis.

 

Wilson Shymanski

Surfing shaped his life.

Wilson Shymanski, 52, died suddenly in his Bradenton home May 8. He was born in 1959 at Manatee Memorial Hospital and died just two weeks shy of his 53rd birthday.

Growing up in Palma Sola Park, mere miles from the beach, Wilson began going to Manatee Public Beach at a very early age. His mom, Kay Shymanski, who died in 2007, packed her kids in the station wagon, crossed the causeway, and the family spent nearly every day in the sun and waves on Anna Maria Island.

Older twin brothers Rich and Phil Salick became local surf legends, moving to Cocoa Beach just out of high school, and Wilson followed their lead after graduating in 1977 from Manatee High.

Wilson’s base of friends were many and he even held the title “Mayor of Coconuts” given to him by the Cocoa Beach crew that frequented that famous beach area.

If it was physical, Wilson was good at it — skateboarding, surfing — especially anything to do with the

beach. Wilson became one of the most notable surfers in Cocoa Beach while managing the Salick Surfboards retail store at its famous Third Street North location, home of many notable surfers, including Kelly Slater.

After living in Cocoa Beach for a number of years, he located to Texas for a time before returning to his home in Bradenton.

He had a keen interest in cars, and spent a lot of time working on his 1991 Mustang. An avid keeper of fish, his salt water tanks in his home were pristine wonderlands, always in top condition with the meticulous care he gave them.

In 1999 Wilson was the great “Hero,” as he gave the gift of life to brother Rich by donating a kidney, thus saving his brother’s life.

A private family service is planned. Memorial donations may be made to the National Kidney Foundation of Florida, 1040 Woodcock Road, Suite 119, Orlando FL 32803-3510, e-mail nkf@kidneyfla.org or go online at www.kidneyfla.org.

He is survived by brothers Richard Salick, Philip Salick and Rosser Shymanski; sister Joanie Mills; nephews Phil Salick, David Morgan and Brandon Mills, and a number of extended family members.

 

 

William Harry ‘Bill’ Snarr

William Harry “Bill” Snarr of Hanover, Ontario, died April 27. He was orn July 13, 1930.

Mr. Snare was former member of the Lord Strathcona Horse Tank Corp Canadian Armed Forces, former superintendent of the Peel Regional Police, retiring in 1982.

A private celebration of life is being planned at a later date.

Mr. Snarr is survived by his wife of 60 years, Dorothy Jean, children Wesley, Victor, Scott, Gail, Suzanne Pearson and Kymberly; 18 grandchildren and four great-grandchildren; sisters Joyce, Lorraine Ellis and Susan Hookom of Holmes Beach; and brother Ken.

Thursday, May 17

        • 6 p.m. — Dining for Women potluck supper, Sandpiper Resort clubhouse, 2601 Gulf Drive N., Bradenton Beach. Information: 941-896-5827.

• 6-8 p.m. — Hermann Trappman Obscured by Time, Ponce de Leon: The Discovery of America, opening reception, De Soto National Memorial, 8300 De Soto Memorial Highway, Bradenton. Information: 941-792-0458, ext. 102.

 

Friday, May 18

• 12:30 p.m. — Rotary Club of Anna Maria Island golf ball drop, Tara Golf & Country Club, 602 Drewrys Bluff, Bradenton. Fee applies. Information: 941-448-5500.

• 1 p.m. — Keep Manatee Beautiful Golf Tournament, Tara Golf & Country Club, 602 Drewrys Bluff, Bradenton. Fee applies. Information: 941-795-8272 or 941-713-1763.

 

Saturday, May 19

• 9 a.m.-noon — Islander pet photo-rescue fundraiser, Moonracer No Kill Animal Rescue, The Islander newspaper office, 5404 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-896-6701.

 

Saturday May 19-Friday May, 25

        • 11 a.m.-3 p.m., National Safe Boat Week, Anna Maria Power Squadron, U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Flotilla 81, free vessel checks all day except Wednesday, May 23, at Coquina South ramp, Gulf Drive, Bradenton Beach, and Kingfish Boat Ramp, Manatee Avenue, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-895-6189.

 

Off-Island:

Saturday May 19 – Sunday, May 20

        • 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Sunday —Longboat Key Challenge, a Regatta-Island Style, Bayfront Park and Recreation Center, 4052 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key. Fee applies. Information: 941-383-2466.

 

Ongoing

        • Through 5 p.m. Saturday, May 19, Fine Forgiveness Week, various locations in Manatee County Library system. Information: 941-748-5555.

• Through Sunday, May 20, all Manatee County libraries Through Sunday, May 20, “Fools,” Island Players, 10009 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria. Fee applies. Information: 941-778-5755.

• Through May 24, “Artists and Animals of Myakka” exhibit, Durante Gallery and Cultural Media Room, Longboat Key Center for the Arts, Ringling College of Art and Design, 6860 Longboat Drive S., Longboat Key. Information: 941-383-2345.

• Third Mondays, noon, through May, Anna Maria Island Democratic Club, BeachHouse Restaurant, 200 Gulf Drive N., Bradenton Beach. Fee applies. Information: 941-779-0564.

• Tuesdays, noon, Rotary Club of Anna Maria Island meetings at the BeachHouse Restaurant, 200 Gulf Drive N., Bradenton Beach. Information: 941-794-8044.

• Tuesdays, 12:30 p.m., duplicate bridge games at Episcopal Church of the Annunciation, 4408 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-3390.

• Tuesdays, 1-2 p.m., coffee and conversation for seniors at the Anna Maria Island Community Center, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria. Information: 941-778-1908.

• First Wednesdays, 8:30 a.m., Pier Regulars, Rod & Reel Pier, 875 N. Shore Drive, Anna Maria.

• Second Wednesdays, 7:30 p.m., VFW Post No. 8199 meets at the volunteer fire station, 201 Second St. N., Bradenton Beach. Information: 941-778-4400.

• Wednesdays, 6-8 p.m., teens meet at the Anna Maria Island Community Center, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria. Information: 941-778-1908.

• Wednesdays and Saturdays, 9 a.m., players pitch horseshoes in the pits at Anna Maria City Hall, 10005 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria. Information: 941-708-6130.

• Thursdays, 5-7 p.m., Thirsty Thursday hosted by Bridge Street Merchants on Bridge Street, Bradenton Beach, Information: 215-906-0668.

• Saturdays, 8:30 a.m., Kiwanis Club of Anna Maria Island meets at the Anna Maria Island Beach Cafe, Manatee Public Beach, 4000 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-761-8834.

 

Coming Up:

        • May 24, Coffee with the Commissioner, Paradise Cafe, 3210 East Bay Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-896-5827

• May 26, Anna Maria Island Privateers 58th annual Snooks Adams Kids Day, Bayfront Park, 316 N. Bay Blvd., Anna Maria. Information: 941-920-3989.

• May 26, Bradenton/Sarasota Deep Sky Observers, Sidewalk Astronomy, city field, 5801 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-342-9632.

 

Save the Date:

• June 2-3, Anna Maria Island Privateers, Wildlife, Inc., Rotary Club of Anna Maria Island and Anna Maria Island Community Center blood drive, St. Bernard Catholic Church, 248 S. Harbor Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-753-1577.

• June 9, Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Sun Coast, Cooking for Kids/Summer Nights, Anna Maria Island Community Center, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria. Fee applies. Information: 941-488-4009.

• June 9, Scallopalooza, Sarasota Yacht Club, 1100 John Ringling Blvd., Sarasota. Fee applies. Information: 941-953-5333.

Send calendar announcements to news@islander.org. Please include the time, date and location of the event, a brief description and a contact via e-mail and phone.

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Anna Maria

        • May 5, 200 N. Shore Drive, criminal mischief. A group of adults and teenagers became involved in a verbal dispute at the Anna Maria City Pier, but separated without incident. Later that day, the two groups came into contact again and another dispute ensued. One of the teens maliciously damaged a vehicle owned by one of the adults, however, the man refused to press charges, telling the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office deputy he would pursue the matter in civil court.

• 10005 Gulf Drive, battery. A 20-year-old Anna Maria man was arrested on a misdemeanor battery charge in Holmes Beach following an argument between he and his father that turned physical. According to the report, the father questioned his son about money that had gone missing while he was in jail. The son became upset and wanted to leave in his dad’s car. The father grabbed a screwdriver to remove the license plate to prevent his son from taking the car, at which time the son allegedly attacked his father, shoving him repeatedly and punching him. During the scuffle, the son cut his hand on the screwdriver, and told law enforcement that his father had stabbed him. The investigation concluded the son was the aggressor.

May 5, 800 block of North Shore Drive, domestic disturbance. While on beach patrol, a MSCO deputy was flagged down by a female, who reported she had just swam from Egmont Key following an argument with her boyfriend. The woman reported she had taken the boyfriend’s boat keys because he was too drunk to operate the craft. The boyfriend then was alleged to have knocked the woman’s cellphone from her hands, after which she said she jumped overboard to avoid further confrontation. Deputies were unable to make contact with the boyfriend by Islander press time.

Anna Maria is policed by the MCSO.

Bradenton Beach

• May 2, 2502 Gulf Drive, disturbance. Police responded to the Dream Inn in response to a disturbance. A male complainant said his female companion was causing problems due to being “too intoxicated,” according to the report, and he wanted her to leave.

• May 4, 2600 block of Gulf Drive, felony warrant. Police arrested Jill Rickerson, 36, on a felony warrant for failure to comply with a summons.

• May 5, 2600 block of Gulf Drive, domestic disturbance. Police responded to find a couple arguing. Police reported both people were intoxicated, but no physical altercation occurred. Domestic packets were issues.

        Bradenton Beach is policed by the BBPD.

Cortez

• May 4, 4400 block of 123rd Street, information. A complainant reported he sold a trailer, which contained his tools. The man reported he had been in contact with the buyer, who promised to return the tools, but had yet to do so. The complainant was advised that since both parties were aware the tools were on the trailer at the time of purchase, the matter would have to be taken up in a civil court.

• May 7, 4400 block of 123rd Street, domestic disturbance/Baker Act. A mother and her adult son became involved in an argument, at which time the son began to break things in their home. A deputy reported the son also had punched the wall, injuring his hand. The mother reported she was “very afraid” of her son, according to the report. The son was reported to say he may harm himself.

• May 9, 4000 block of 129th Street, theft. A complainant reported a stolen kayak. According to the report, the kayak was stored in a shared garage, hanging from the ceiling by ropes, which were cut.

• May 10, 11900 Cortez Road, vehicle theft. A golf cart was reported stolen from the Holiday Cove RV Resort.

        Cortez is policed by the MCSO

Holmes Beach

        • May 3, 200 block of 82nd Street, theft. A female complainant reported a male juvenile had stolen her debit card from her purse and ran away from home. Further investigation revealed the juvenile is on probation. The complainant was advised to cancel her bank cards and the juvenile’s probation officer was contacted. At press time, police were searching for the juvenile.

• May 2, 3000 block of Avenue C, domestic disturbance. A couple became engaged in a verbal argument. The woman called 911, saying she was concerned the argument was escalating, but told police she only called because the man said she wouldn’t. Police advised the woman that 911 is not to be used as a threat. Domestic violence packets were issued.

• May 1, 5400 Marina Drive, criminal mischief. Police responded to a criminal mischief complaint at the Sand N Sudz Laundromat and discovered a broken plastic chair, and a shattered sliding-glass window. The establishment has video surveillance, which recorded three males entering the business. Video showed two of the men exited while one remained inside. The suspect inside the business then threw a book through the window. He was shown entering a vehicle with the other two men. The investigation continues.

• May 5, 200 block of 84th Street, petit theft. A man reported his garbage can stolen. He told police that he happened to notice his neighbor had two trash cans, but did not want police to interview the neighbor.

• May 5, 600 block of Gladstone Lane, vehicle burglary. A man reported someone had entered his boat, stealing custom-made fishing gear valued at $300. The man told police his residence and dock are under video surveillance and he would turn the video over to police. The investigation continues.

• May 8, 1400 Cortez Road, failure to report found property. A Holmes Beach man was arrested for failure to report found property, after a MSCO deputy made contact with him on Cortez Road. According to the report, the man was riding a girl’s blue bicycle with a flowered basket. Upon making contact with the suspect, the deputy asked why he was riding a girl’s bike. The man said he had borrowed it from his girlfriend’s sister, but the deputy noted the bike still had a price tag affixed to it. The suspect then changed his story, saying he had found the bike. He was taken into custody for failing to report found property.

• May 9, 300 block of 67th Street, vehicle burglary. A woman complainant reported someone had entered her unlocked vehicle. Approximately $10 in change was reported stolen. Finger prints were taken at the scene.

• May 9, 4900 block of Gulf Drive, domestic disturbance. A mother and her adult daughter became involved in an argument when the daughter became upset that her mother brought home a “strange man” from a bar. Police observed the “strange man sitting peacefully on the couch,” while the mother and daughter continued to argue, the report stated. Domestic violence packets were issued.

May 8, 600 Manatee Ave., larceny. A male complainant reported a stolen kayak valued at $350. According to the report, the man returned from a fishing trip and locked his kayak with two others. On his return, he found only his kayak was missing.

Holmes Beach is policed by the HBPD.

        Streetlife is based on incident reports and narratives from the Bradenton Beach and Holmes Beach police departments and Manatee County Sheriff’s Office.

Basketball headlines youth sports, Dips unchallenged

 

Dips Ice Cream appears unchallenged in the Anna Maria Island Community Center Youth Basketball League and continues to control the 14-17 division with a perfect 6-0 record. Anna Maria Oyster Bar is four games back in second place, closely followed by Integrity Sound.

The 11-13 division remains extremely competitive with Ross Built holding onto a one-game lead over Holy Cow Ice Cream, Sandbar Restaurant and Walter & Associates, all sporting 3-2 records. Eat Here is another game back in fifth place followed by Southern Greens.

Previously undefeated Beach Bistro dropped a 22-20 overtime decision to Gettel Toyota to tighten up the 8-10 division, moving Gettel into a tie for first place with Bistro with matching 4-1 records. Island Real Estate follows at 2-3, while Walter & Associates is still looking for its first win.

Island Real Estate got the week’s basketball action started with an 8-5 victory over Walter & Associates May 7. Six points and six rebounds from Alex Rodriguez and 2 points and three blocked shots from Conal Cassidy led IRE’s effort, which also included six rebounds from Griffin Heckler.

Tori Walter scored 5 points and grabbed seven rebounds to lead the Walter & Associates effort that also included five rebounds apiece form Katie Krokroskia and Javier Rivera in the loss.

Hannah McCracken’s overtime basket propelled Gettel Toyota to a 22-20 victory over Beach Bistro in the second 8-10 division game of the evening. The victory, which included 8 points and eight rebounds from Hannah McCracken, moves Gettel into a tie in the standings for first place with Beach Bistro. Andrew Austin added 6 points, while David Daigle finished with 4 points and seven rebounds in the victory.

Luke Marvin led Beach Bistro with 8 points, while Franklin Valdez added 6 points and a game-high 14 rebounds. Jack Groves finished with 4 points and Ava Zink added 2 points in the loss.

Dips Ice Cream earned a hard-fought 45-42 victory May 7 over Integrity Sound in 14-17 division basketball action. Connor Field scored 18 points and grabbed 14 rebounds to lead Dips, which also received 15 points, 10 rebounds and five assists from Tegan Purtill. Jerry Mayer added 8 points and six rebounds, while Justin Gargett completed the Dips scoring with 4 points in the victory.

Burke McCampbell-Hill scored 15 points and Pierce Hogan scored 11 points and grabbed five rebounds to lead Integrity Sound. Joey Carder added 8 points, five rebounds and three assists in the loss.

Tegan Purtill exploded for 31 points, six rebounds and five assists May 8 to lead Dips Ice Cream to a 70-38 victory over Anna Maria Oyster Bar in 14-17 division basketball action. Jerry Mayer added 14 points and seven rebounds, while Justin Gargett finished with 11 points and 10 rebounds in the win.

Ryan Gilman scored 10 points and brother Alex Gilman finished with 9 points for Anna Maria Oyster Bar, which also received 9 points and 19 rebounds from Max Miller in the loss.

Holy Cow Ice Cream got the 11-13 division action started May 9 with a 45-36 victory over Eat Here. Trent Boring scored a game-high 17 points, while teammate Rory Houston finished with 13 points, five rebounds and three assists.

Adam Clark scored 16 points and grabbed 17 rebounds to lead Eat Here, which also received 12 points from Michael Latimer in the loss.

The second 11-13 division game of the evening saw Ross Built take a 42-36 victory over Sandbar Restaurant. Levi Lengle poured in 25 points and grabbed five rebounds to lead Ross Built, which also received 7 points from Matthew Manger and 6 points from Jake Ross in the victory.

Jean-Paul Russo led Sandbar with 22 points, while Dayton Modderman scored 14 points and grabbed 22 rebounds in the loss.

Seth Walter’s 15 points and 10 rebounds and 12 points and nine rebounds led Walter & Associates past Southern Greens 42-20 in the last 11-13 divison game of the evening. Mark Fields’ 6 points and six rebounds and 5 points from Robbie Fellowes rounded out the scoring for Walter & Associates in the victory.

Andrew Zink’s 11 points and five rebounds, along with 3 points and six rebounds from George Lardas led Southern Greens in the loss.

The 11-13 division action continued May 11 with three games, starting with Sandbar’s 31-21 victory over Southern Greens. Jean-Paul Russo’s 16 points along with 12 points and 12 rebounds from Dayton Modderman led Sandbar in the victory.

Andew Zink scored 13 points and George Lardas added 4 points and nine rebounds to lead Southern Greens in the loss.

Ross Built received 22 points from Levi Lengle and 9 points and five rebounds from Jake Ross during Ross Built’s 48-23 victory over Eat Here in the second 11-13 division game of the evening. Andrew Ross finished with 8 points and Mathew Manger added 5 points and eight rebounds in the victory.

Michael Latimer led Eat Here with 11 points, while Brooke Capperelli, Edward Cunihan and Jordan Cooly each finished with 4 points in the loss.

Walter & Associates earned a 41-32 victory over Holy Cow to finish the week’s basketball action at the Center. Mark Fields led the way with 15 points and seven rebounds. Jack Walter added 12 points and Tren Shackleford finished with 7 points in the win.

Trent Boring scored 17 points and Rory Houston added 8 points and six rebounds in the Holy Cow loss.

 

Island Pest Control continues to lead the pack

Island Pest Control remains atop the Anna Maria Island Community Center’s coed adult soccer league with a 5-1-1 record. Slim’s Place is only 3 points behind, while Florida Discount Signs and Don Meilner & Son Construction are tied for third place with 10 points each. Best Buy, Pink & Navy, Agnelli Pool and Wash Family Construction follow in the standings.

Island Pest Control and Slim’s Place battled to a 3-3 tie to highlight May 10 action. Adam Bujarski scored 2 goals and Oliver Petereit added 1 goal in the tie. Brent Laudicina finished with six saves and Blair Schlossberg added four saves in goal.

Tyler Krauss, Aaron Parkin and Sean Sanders each scored one goal while Adam Mott made 20 saves for Slim’s Place in the tie.

Florida Discount Signs opened the night’s action with a 4-3 victory over Meilner. Discount Signs received 2 goals from Matt Kretzman and a goal apiece from Daniel Anderson and Hampton Harrison. B.J. Grant finished with an assist, while goalie Josh Peurfoy came up with eight saves in the victory.

Matt Plummer, Tim Tedesco and Lindsey Weaver each notched goals for Meilner, which also received five saves in goal from Nate Talucci.

Wash earned its first victory of the season in easy fashion, defeating Best Buy 6-0. Hayley Sousa’s hat trick and 2 goals from Kris Yavalar and 1 goal from Austin Wash pace WFC. Norman Fleet contributed seven saves to the WFC victory.

Damir Glavan’s 2 goals and an assist by Larry Waterman paced Pink & Navy to a 2-0 victory over Agnelli Pool. Goalie Jason Sato finished with seven saves in the shutout victory.

 

Key Royale golf news

The women of Key Royale Club played a nine-hole, low-net-in-flight match May 8. Helen Pollack carded a 2-under-par 30 to take first place in Flight A over Marlyn Thorton and Penny Williams, who both matched par 32 to finish in a tie for second place.

Tootie Wagner fired a 4-under par 28 to take first place in Flight B. Kathy Porter’s 2-under-par 30 was good for second place, while Sue Christianson was one shot back in third place.

 

MAYSO announces soccer tryouts

Manatee Area Youth Soccer Organization is holding tryouts for its traveling soccer program, Manatee Magic.

Tryouts will be held May 29-June 6 at G.T. Bray Park soccer fields, 5502 33rd Ave. Drive W., Bradenton.

There will be two tryout dates for each age group and players are encouraged to attend both sessions. Players will register 5-6 p.m. and tryouts will be 6-7:30 p.m. The schedule is as follows:

May 29: U9-U10 boys and U9-U11 girls.

May 30: U11-U12 boys and U12-U14 girls.

May 31: U13-U16 boys and U15-U16 girls.

June 4: U9-U10 boys and U9-U11 girls.

June 5: U11-U12 boys and U12-U14 girls.

June 6: U13-U16 boys and U15-U16 girls.

 

Mayso invites all area players to participate in its competitive socce program. For more information, go online at www.mayso.org or e-mail Kevin Cassidy at competition@mayso.org, or Neil Fellowes at treasurer@mayso.org.

 

AMICC basketball league schedule

Date                                      Time Opponents

Division II       (ages 8-10)

May 19            9 a.m.            IRE  vs. Gettel

May 19            10 a.m.          Walter vs. Bistro

May 21            6 p.m.            IRE  vs. Walter

May 21            7 p.m.            Gettel vs. Bistro

 

Division I (ages 11-13)

May 16            6 p.m.            Walter vs. Ross Built

May 16            7 p.m.            Eat Here vs. Sandbar

May 16            8 p.m.            Southern Greens vs. Holy Cow

May 19            12 p.m.          Sandbar vs. Southern Greens

May 19            1 p.m.            Ross Built vs. Eat Here

May 19            2 p.m.            Holy Cow vs. Walter

 

Premier Division (ages 14-17)

May 19            11 a.m.          Oyster Bar vs. Dips

 

Anna Maria Community Center baseball schedule

Tee Ball (ages 5-7)

May 18            6 p.m.                Gulf-Bay vs. A&E

May 19            10 a.m.              Gulf-Bay vs. A&E

 

Coach Pitch (ages 8-11)

May 18            7:15 p.m.           Miller Electric vs. Beach Bums

May 19            11:15 a.m.         Miller Electric vs. Beach Bums

113 Hammock Road, Anna Maria, a 2,366 sfla / 3,630 sfur 3bed/3bath/2car pool home built in 2003 on a 56×113 lot was sold 04/27/12, Mock to Thompson for $645,000; list $679,000.

243 Gladiolus St., Anna Maria, a 2,240 sfla / 3,826 sfur 4bed/3bath/2car canalfront pool home built in 1983 on a 77×100 lot was sold 04/25/12, Shields to Dale for $605,000; list $649,000.

5804 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, a 2,494 sfur service station built in 1965 on a 214×150 lot was sold 04/24/12, Saugatuck Properties Inc. to Hula Properties LLC for $600,000.

302 74th St., Holmes Beach, a 2,038 sfla / 2,884 sfur 4bed/4bath/2car duplex built in 1986 on a 95×85 lot was sold 04/24/12, Turley to Valentine Enterprises LP for $432,500.

211 85th St., Holmes Beach, a 974 sfla / 1,877 sfur 2bed/1½bath home built in 1959 on a 90×70 lot was sold 04/19/12, Adams to May for $295,000; list $327,000.

301 29th St., Holmes Beach, a 952 sfla / 1,048 sfur 2bed/1bath home built in 1969 on a 50×100 lot was sold 04/18/12, Roosa to Stephens for $187,500; list $200,000.

Jesse Brisson, broker/associate at Gulf-Bay Realty of Anna Maria, can be reached at 941-778-7244.

Megalops atlanticus — tarpon — return to Tampa Bay

 

There’s big news in the waters off the beaches of Anna Maria Island — the tarpon have arrived. Anglers fishing just off the beaches have been rewarded with hookups of silver kings in the 50- to 80-pound range.

Inshore fishing remains consistent for flats fishers targeting redfish, spotted seatrout and catch-and release snook.

Live baits such as shiners, threadfins or shrimp are producing a good bite during higher tides. If you’re using shiners or threadfins, you can free-line them with 20-pound fluorocarbon leader and a small live bait hook.

If you opt to use live shrimp, I suggest using a Cajun Thunder popping cork to aid in keeping the bait out of the grass. Pinfish are abundant on the flats right now and they will nibble your shrimp away the second it hits the seagrass. When using the Cajun Thunder, try twitching the cork every so often. These corks emit a sound when twitched on the surface of the water that attracts predators. When a trout or snook comes to investigate the cork noise, they inevitably discover your shrimp and eat it.

Offshore action is heating up in water depths starting around 100 feet. Limits of red grouper are being reported as well as good catch-and-release gag grouper action. Mangrove snapper also are being caught in these depths. For either of these species, you can’t beat a live shiner, although threadfin herring are producing, too. If you can’t get live bait, try frozen sardines or squid.

But it was Capt. Warren Girle who managed the first report this week that tarpon season is upon us. He has been fishing just off the beaches of Anna Maria Island in search of the first arrival of the silver king — and now reports in the past week averaging five or six hookups per trip and landing about half as many. Average size is 60-80 pounds, although larger fish have been seen.

Girle also is fishing shallow grass flats of Sarasota Bay in search of redfish. To successfully stalk these fish, Girle is wading to sandy potholes where the fish are holed up. Wading not only enables you to get to an area that is too shallow for the boat, but it also aids in stealth. When in shallow water, redfish can become extremely spooky. Sometimes wading is the only way to get close enough to cast to them. For bait, Girle is using artificials, like topwater plugs or Berkley Gulp shrimp. Most reds being caught are in the slot, although larger fish are in the mix.

Jim Malfese at the Rod & Reel Pier says things were a little slow for fishing there. “We’re seeing a stray cobia swim by now and again,” says Malfese. “Other than that, it’s been small red grouper and a few mangrove snapper.”

Generally at this time of year, there is a noticeable lull in the fishing around the piers. The vast schools of shiners that congregate there move out to spawn, and with them go the predators. Once the bait returns, you’ll notice the return of migratory species, including Spanish mackerel and ladyfish.

Jonny Keyes at Island Discount Tackle is hearing reports of good action occurring offshore on mangrove snapper and red grouper. “I’m hearing about mangrove snapper in the 3- to 4-pound range,” says Keyes, “and limits of red grouper.”

Live bait is surely the way to go for the snapper, although frozen sardines and squid are working for the red grouper. Most offshore fishers are finding the bite in 100 feet of water or deeper.

Moving closer in, fishers targeting migratory species are finding good action around the 3-mile and 7-mile reefs. Live shiners or live threadfin herring are a must to get the desired results. Expect to encounter Spanish and king mackerel, as well as plenty of bonito. Don’t be surprised to get some good catch-and-release action on lemon and black tip sharks, too.

Fishing the beaches is resulting in pompano and spawning seatrout. These fish are just off the beach in the trough. Free-lined live shrimp will get anglers into the action.

Remember, when spotted seatrout become abundant on the beaches of the Island, it’s because they are spawning. This is a great opportunity to catch a trophy-size trout, although you want to practice catch-and-release so these trout can spawn.

Capt. Rick Gross of Fishy Business Charters is fishing the backcountry for the usual suspects, finding spotted seatrout, redfish and catch-and-release snook action consistent in both the waters of southern Tampa Bay and Sarasota Bay. Gross is anchoring and chumming on shallow grass flats where good water flow helps produce the bite. When chumming with live shiners, Gross’ clients are able to site cast to feeding fish.

Spotted seatrout in the 16- to 18-inch range have been the norm for Gross. Slot-sized redfish are being caught. For the reds, Gross feels the bite is steady but the fish are not bunched up. As for snook, the largest this past week came in at 36 inches.

Capt. Mark Johnston of Just Reel fishing charter is catching limits of spotted seatrout in and around the deeper grass at Longboat Pass. Johnston is using either live shrimp or live shiners free-lined behind the boat to get the bite. Most trout being caught are in the slot of 15-20 inches, although Johnston says he’s releasing a lot of larger, roe-filled fish.

Redfish are in Johnston’s sights. By fishing close to mangrove islands on the higher tides, Johnston is leading his clients to steady redfish action. Again, Johnston is using either live shrimp or live shiners to get the bite. For the reds, 18-22 inches has been the norm, but larger fish are occasionally being caught.

Send fishing reports to fish@islander.org.

ITEMS FOR SALE

MOTION SENSOR SECURITY lights. Battery powered. No wiring. Bright LEDs. $12-$50. Power failure three-unit kit, $75. New, weatherproof. Call for demo. Jeff’s Security Lights, 941-794-1469.

FOUR ROLLS R25 fiberglass insulation, $10 each. One package R19 batts, $25. 941-545-7645.

REMODEL SURPLUS. STOVE/oven, $75. Two Kohler double cast iron sinks, $75. 813-943-3572.

FOR SALE: 12 Kwikset smart key system 660 single-cylinder dead bolts, brand new, $60 for all. 727-831-6915.

FISHING ROD: LIGHTNING: 6.5-foot plus Diawa reel BG-15, $35. Call Frank, 941-761-1415.

SURF ROD: 9-foot Fugi  H-24, $10. Call Frank, 941-761-1415.

COMPUTER 2.8GHz Dell Dimension 2400 with newly loaded Windows XP, $100. 941-756-6728.

FOR SALE: GIRLS very nice baby stroller, Graco, $40. 941-778-7293.

MARY KAY COSMETICS: Full line at discounted prices. Jenifer, 941-224-1760, 941-739-0792.

ANTIQUE COPPER POTS and bowls, collection $350. Burl-wood rocker, oak office chairs, collectibles.  View at The Islander store, 5404 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach.

ORIGINAL, LOCAL ART for sale. View at The Islander store, 5404 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach.

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

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. E-mail classifieds@islander.org, fax toll-free 1-866-362-9821. (limited time offer)

ANNOUNCEMENTS

GLORIA DEI LUTHERAN Church: All are welcome to come and worship with us! Please call 941-778-1813 or visit us at: www.gloriadeilutheran.com for worship times. 6608 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach.

OUR DAILY BREAD: Volunteer servers needed. 9 a.m.-noon. Call 941-745-2992, ask for Penny.

NEW ADVANCED TEACHING series starting Thursday, May 10. Continuing series Thursday evenings at Palmetto retreat center, 4310 61st St. E., Palmetto. E-mail: info@meditationsarasota.com. Call 941-323-3372.

BRING YOUR PET: 9 a.m.-noon Saturday, May 19. Pet photos! Face painting, bake sale, No-Kill T-shirts. Fundraiser for Moonracer No-Kill Animal Rescue Inc. at The Islander newspaper, 5404 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach.

HAITI $$$ DONATIONS to the Ministry of Presence Inc., www.ministryofpresence.org, urgently needed for local representatives to aid homeless children. Info: The Islander, 941-778-7978.

TERRY HAYES, REALTOR. Premier Sothebys. 941-302-3100. Terry.hayes@sothebysrealty.com. Discoverannamaria.com.

MICHAEL NORTHFIELD: BROKER, Anna Maria Island Realty, 941-713-0284. www.annamariaislandrealty.com. E-mail: Michael@annamariaislandrealty.com. Your personal broker.

WANTED: YOUR OLD cell phone for recycling. Deliver to The Islander, 5404 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach.

FISHING GEAR WANTED: The Privateers and The Islander are collecting new or used, repairable fishing poles and reels, nets, tackle, buckets, etc. to give to children. Donate your gear at The Islander newspaper office, 5404 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach.

FREE GUN LOCK courtesy of Project Childsafe, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and Holmes Beach Police Department. Pick up at The Islander office, 5404 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Don’t be sorry, be safe.

GARAGE SALES

ROSER THRIFT SHOP: Open 9:30 a.m.-2 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays, 9 a.m.-noon Saturdays. Donation drop-off, 9 a.m.-11 a.m. Wednesdays. 511 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. 941-779-2733

GARAGE SALE: 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Friday and Saturday, May 18-19. Miscellaneous household items at 2110 Ave. A Bradenton Beach.

NEW LOCATION: STEFF’S Stuff Antiques has moved to The Centre Shops on Longboat Key. 5380 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Unit 101. 941-383-1901.

LOST & FOUND

FOUND I-PHONE. FURTHER information can be obtained at HBPD 941-708-5804.

FOUND: SET OF Toyota keys in road on Gulf Drive, near Circle K. 941-330-4646.

LOST ORANGE CAT: Small, friendly, yellow eyes. Green and white collar, Last seen Friday, April 27, Holmes Beach. 941-779-6638.

LOST NECKLACE AT beach or Fern Street, Anna Maria. Gift from my kids. Call Karen 941-778-4321.

PETS

ADULT MALE CAT: Free to good home. Declawed and current shots, very sweet. 901-240-2180.

ISLAND DOGS GROOMING Salon: Julie Keyes, certified groomer. Hydro bath, hand dry, (no cage drying). Personal service for you and your loved ones. Free pick up and delivery. Call anytime for appointments, 941-778-1202. Holmes Beach.

PARENTS NEEDED for loving homes to foster puppies and kittens until they are old enough for adoption. All food and medical provided. Julie, 941-720-1411.

TRANSPORTATION

2010 GMW 150 motor scooter. 2,490 miles on odometer. Excellent condition, runs great. $1,200. 941-704-8002.

1970 CHEVROLET CHEVELLE SS 454/360HP, red, automatic, Price $5,800. E-mail for pictures: gauthy6@msn.com. 813-377-4590.

BOATS & BOATING

BIMINI BAY SAILING: Small sailboat rentals and instruction. Day. Week. Month. Sunfish, Laser, Windrider 17 and Precision 15. Call Brian at 941-685-1400.

BOAT LIFT FOR rent: 10,000-lb. capacity on 67th Street, Holmes Beach. 941-778-9663.

FISHING BOAT: 15-foot 2004 Wagner 1500 DLX cc. 2006 Yamaha 40-hp, four-stroke and Continental trailer. Includes Minnkota GPS iPilot trolling motor. Excellent condition, $5,600. 941-323-1545.

POWER NOLES CUSTOM 11.5-foot fiberglass tunnel hull with bass seats. Very stable! Great for fishing-stand on the side without tipping, go in really shallow waters. Very fun boat for anyone who wants to get on the water!
 2001 25-hp Mercury 2-stroke, plus a trolling motor with battery. Must see! $2,150 obo. Call Toni, 941-928-8735.

HELP WANTED

ANNA MARIA ISLAND Community Center seeks Executive Director to lead the organization and ensure the Center continues to provide excellent youth development and adult programs. Looking for outstanding relationship-builder, to develop and sustain relationships with youth, volunteers, community members, board members and funders, as well as strong staff. Need organizational manager who can build and develop systems and programs to support organization’s mission and ensure its long-term sustainability. The Executive Director plays critical role in organization from ground up: developing programming, leading fundraising, maintaining and building relationships with donors and partners, overseeing staffing, financial and operational management, monitoring participants to ensure they achieve best possible outcomes and board development. For more information and qualifications, view entire job posting: http://www.islandcommunitycenter.com/CorporateInfo/EmploymentOpportunities.aspx. E-mail resume and cover letter, outline skills and experience that meet qualifications of position and tell how you heard about us in Word format. E-mail: sandee@myamicc.com. The center is a drug-free workplace and an equal opportunity employer.

FOR HIRE: PART-time receptionist for local area motel. Flexible hours and some weekends. Phone 941-778-2780.

NAIL TECH NEEDED at new Island spa and boutique on Bridge Street. Turning appointments down daily. Call Amanda, 941-779-6836.

SALES ASSOCIATE: MOTIVATED, experienced real estate licensee for busy Island office. Please call Jesse or Robin at 941-778-7244.

KIDS FOR HIRE

BABIES, PETS, PLANTS: Responsible, trustworthy, fun and reliable 17-year old. Own transportation. 941-447-9658.

LOCAL ISLAND STUDENT babysitter available. CPR and first aid-certified, early childhood development major. Emily, 941-567-9276.

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, 5404 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach.

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY

HEALTH CARE ASSISTED-living home includes real estate. Established business for 10-plus years. $399,000. Realtor, 941-356-1456. Real Estate Mart.

HEALTH CARE

LPNS NEEDED FOR active quadriplegic using Hoyer lift. Full or part-time. Morning shifts are 4-5 hours starting at 7 a.m. Overnight shifts are 9:30 p.m.-7 a.m. Travel opportunity. 941-383-9637.

ASSISTED LIVING FOR your loved one in our west Bradenton personal home care, May, June. 941-737-9455.

SERVICES

LET US DRIVE YOU! Airports, cruise ports. Flat rates. Anna Maria Sunshine Car Service. 941-778-5476.

TOASTED COMPUTER SERVICES. Your home and business specialist. On-site service, virus/spyware, cleanup, system setup, upgrades, diagnosis and repair, internet/wireless networking, custom system design. 941-224-1069.

I DON’T CUT corners, I clean corners. Professional, friendly cleaning  service since 1999. 941-779-6638. Leave message.

WILDLIFE REMOVAL and relocation: Problem solving for all animals, big and small. Call Joe, Westcoast Nuisance Wildlife Service. 941-720-4152.

TRANSPORT SERVICE: LET me drive you to the airport or anywhere in Florida. Flat rates. Reasonable. Call Mike, 941-567-6634.

ISLAND COMPUTER GUY, 37 years experience. On-site PC repairs, upgrades, buying assistance and training. Call Bill, 941-778-2535.

ISLANDER HANDYMAN SERVICE: 23-year Island resident, references. The Flying Dutchman LLC. We do all repair, interior and exterior, carpentry and more. Peter, 941-447-6747.

ISLAND PET NANNY: Loving pet care. Longtime Island resident, background check, pet CPR-certified, references. Karen Robinson, 941-730-5693.

CLEANING BY LAURA offers everything on your list from kitchen and bath cleaning to dusting and emptying wastebaskets. 941-539-6891.

ISLAND PRESSURE WASHERS: Professional, reasonable and reliable. Call Bill or Clint for free estimate, 941-896-6788.

DRIVER: DRIVE YOUR car north or south. 941-746-5651.

SUMMER TUTORING: CERTIFIED teacher. Reading grades K-12, all subjects grades 1-6. Island resident. All grades and special needs students welcome. FCAT and SAT prep. Call Amy, 941-705-0552.

TUTORING SERVICES: Specializing in algebra, geometry, calculus, trigonometry and science. Special needs students welcome. Grades 3-12. Rick, 941-224-4977.

BUSINESS-TO-BUSINESS JD’s Window Cleaning looking for storefront jobs in Holmes Beach. I make dirty windows sparkling clean. 941-920-3840.

ISLAND MERMAIDS CLEANING and Co.: 36 years of happy customers. Organizing, laundry, ironing, pet-watch, storm-check, etc. Rentals our specialty. 941-778-3046.

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 William Eller, 941-795-7411. CAC184228.

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

RELAXING MASSAGE IN the convenience of your home or hotel. Massage by Nadia, more than 19 years on Anna Maria Island. Call today for an appointment, 941-518-8301. MA#0017550.MA#0017550.

GUITAR TROUBLE? KOKO RAY’S ISLAND studio. Instruction in flute, saxophone, guitar, piano and voice. 315 58th St., Holmes Beach, 941-538-8724.

LAWN & GARDEN

CONNIE’S LANDSCAPING INC. Residential and commercial. Full-service lawn maintenance, landscaping, cleanups, hauling and more! Insured. 941-778-5294.

ISLAND LAWN SPRINKLER service and repair. Your complete irrigation repair company. Call 941-778-2581.

JR’S LANDSCAPING AND MAINTENANCE Lawns, native plants, mulching, trimming, hauling, cleanups. Island resident 25 years. Call 941-807-1015.

LANDSCAPING

STRAIGHT SHOT LANDSCAPE. Shell installed $45/yard at true specifications. Free appliance pick up. Call Shark Mark. 941-301-6067.

SHELL DELIVERED AND spread. $45/yard. Hauling all kinds of gravel, mulch, top soil with free estimates. Call Larry at 941-795-7775, “shell phone” 941-720-0770.

NATURE’S DESIGN LANDSCAPING. Design and installation. Tropical landscape specialist. Residential and commercial. 30 years experience. 941-729-9381, 941-448-6336.

TOP NOTCH LAWN Care: Residential and commercial. For all your landscaping needs. 941-932-6600.

HOME IMPROVEMENT

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

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

CUSTOM REMODELING EXPERT. All phases of carpentry, repairs and painting. Insured. Meticulous, clean, sober and prompt. Paul Beauregard, 941-730-7479.

GRIFFIN’S HOME IMPROVEMENTS Inc. Handyman, fine woodwork, countertops, cabinets and shutters. Insured and licensed, 941-748-4711.

JERRY’S HOME REPAIR: Carpentry, handyman, light hauling, pressure washing. Jack of all trades. Call 941-778-6170 or 941-447-2198.

SOUTHBAY HOME REPAIRS: If it’s broken, stuck, loose, leaks, needs paint, etc. I’ll fix it. Affordable quality work. 941-720-2906.

FOREMOST FENCE: Commercial, Residential. Chain link, vinyl, aluminum, wood, access control. Contractors you can depend on. Call 941-748-2700.

THE FLYING DUTCHMAN LLC: Professional tile roof restoration. Call Peter for free estimate. 23-year Island resident, references, insured. 941-447-6747.

CUSTOM KITCHENS AND baths, additions, windows and door replacement. Call Matt at Pinnacle Group, 941-685-6132. Lic#CGC1506518.

RENTALS

WEEKLY/MONTHLY/ANNUAL rentals: wide variety, changes daily. SunCoast Real Estate, 941-779-0202, or 1-800-732-6434. www.suncoastinc.com.

HOLMES BEACH BUSINESS Center. Rental units available for office/commercial spaces from 750-2,000 sf. Humidity-controlled mini-storage units and garage units, 11 x 22 feet. 5347 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. 941-778-2924.

HOLIDAY/VACATION RENTALS: 3BR/2BA private pool home in northwest Bradenton, 3BR/3BA private pool home in Palma Sola, west Bradenton. No annuals. Call 941-794-1515.

VACATION RENTALS ONLY: Private pool homes, 3BR/2BA and 3BR/3BA. Condo, 1BR/1BA overlooking golf course. Call 941-794-1515 or www.coastalpropertiesrealty.com.

WANTED: RETAIL STOREFRONT in Bradenton Beach, 500 sf and up. Bridge street area. 941-447-1506.

BRADENTON BEACH: CHARMING one bedroom cottage on the bay. Clean, quiet, laundry, annual lease, $1,095/month. 941-779-0289.

2BR/2BA ANNUAL RENTALS starting at $850/month. Call Mike Norman Realty, 941-778-6696 or 800-367-1617.

WATERFRONT TWO BEDROOM townhouse with boat slip on Palma Sola Bay. Heated pool, patio, cable, washer and dryer. Lease six months plus. $925/month plus utilities. No pets. Call 941-538-8622.

BRADENTON BEACH: SEASONAL 2BR/1BA. Steps to beach. No pets. $700/week. 941-778-4731.

CORTEZ 1BR,LANAI, washer and dryer, new carpet, no pets. $600/month, annual. 941-545-9025.

1BR/1BA FURNISHED TOP-floor unit. 180-degree Gulffront view, large 10×24-foot deck. Excellent credit only, no pets. $1,500/month plus security deposit. 941-778-7293.

NORTH END ANNA Maria Island: Efficiency room, large deck on canal, annual rental, $575/month. 941-794-8877.

VILLAGE GREEN: 3BR/2BR, two-car garage home, unfurnished. Available now, $1,480/month, includes lawn service. Realtor, 941-756-1090. Real Estate Mart.

SEASONAL OR WEEKLY cottage-style rentals. 1BR/1BA or 1BR/1BA with loft with pool. Walk to beach, shops or dining! 941-778-3426. Web site: www.spinnakerscottages.com.

REAL ESTATE

DIRECT GULFFRONT: 146 feet on the beach. 3BR/4.5BA, office recreation room, spa, pool, outdoor kitchen and theater, elevator, turnkey furnished. $3,750,000. Suncoast Real Estate, 941-779-0202 or 941-720-0288.

FOR SALE BY owner: 1BR/1BA mobile completely remodeled with share, beach and bay access. Call 941-224-1652 for more information.

FOR SALE BY owner: Mobile home, 1BR/1BA, extra bonus room. Across the street from Bradenton Beach private fishing pier. Beach and bay access, adjacent parking. Call 813-458-3875.

OPEN HOUSE: 1-3 p.m. Saturday. 644 Key Royale Drive, Holmes Beach. Gorgeous waterfront 2BR/2BA, pool. James Adkins, 713-0635.

COMMERCIAL LOT WITH dock. Sale or lease, 4,000 sf.  407 Pine Ave Anna Maria. Will build to Suit. 2,000 sf commercial, $ 4,000/month and/or 2,000 sf 3BR/2BA apartment, $1,900/month. $399,000. 813-340-4420.

EXCEPTIONAL CONDO LOT: Two houses to beach. 114 48th St., Holmes Beach. $459,000. 618-334-1619.

WARM, INVITING NORTHWEST Bradenton home. 3BR/2BA split-plan. Spacious, cathedral ceilings, tile throughout. Updated kitchen, new stainless-steel appliances. Master suite has large bath with garden tub, shower, dual sinks. Air-conditioned lanai includes built-in spa. Large open patio looks over waterway. Security and safety features. $264,400. Call 941-761-3614.

AMI HOMES BOUGHT so far this year? 135. Currently under contract? 80. Left for sale? Just over 300. What are you waiting for? Let me show you the lowest priced 3BR/2BA elevated home with garage, new construction to current codes and private heated pool. Wait! This deal just got better! Asking price just reduced $20,000 to $429,000. Part of a two-home project, now only one left to sell. Not a condo. Zoned R2 for weekly rentals. I’ve also listed the lowest priced Gulffront condo and the lowest price building lot on a canal. Read this ad again and call Barry Gould, 941-448-5500. Island Vacation Properties.

VILLAGE GREEN LAKEFRONT: Rarely available ‘D’ model. Move-in condition, $145,000. Denise Langlois, Coldwell Banker, 941-725-425.

FLORIDA, OUT-OF-STATE

HILTON HEAD, SOUTH Carolina home: 3BR/2.5BA, Palmetto Dunes. Trade for home on Anna Maria Island. 330-763-1137.

SOUTHEAST TENNESSEE MOUNTAIN home: Beautiful views, 3BR/2BA, furnished. Priced to sell, by owner, $149,500. 941-782-8231.

Dressing the part, author Nancy Thibault sprinkles magic mermaid dust May 7 before reading “Bubble Heart Kisses, A Mermaid’s Tale” to the first-grade classes of Laura Redeker and Tina Goffred in the media center at Anna Maria Elementary School, 4700 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. Islander Photo: Kathy Prucnell

Thirty-two years ago today, in what many old-time area residents consider the worst accident ever in the Tampa Bay area, the southbound center span of the Sunshine Skyway Bridge collapsed into history after the cargo ship Summit Venture struck a support piling during a storm, knocking a section of the bridge into Tampa Bay.

The crash killed 35 people.

The chilling mayday call to the U.S. Coast Guard Station in St. Petersburg came at 7:38 a.m. from Summit Venture pilot John Lerro, who said “The Skyway Bridge is down. This is a mayday. Emergency situation. Stop the traffic on the Skyway Bridge.”

For whatever reason — and there are as many theories and reasons as there are conspiracy theories about who shot John F. Kennedy — the ship was not in the middle of the channel at 7:38 a.m. where it should have been on a heading to the Port of Tampa. It was on the north edge of the channel doing 8 mph when it struck the support.

At the helm was John Lerro, a four-year veteran channel pilot who had taken ships of all sizes through the channel, which is considered one of the longest in the world. At his side was pilot-in-training Bruce Atkins.

What happened in the next 60 seconds has been debated 32 years.

The ship’s radar went out and, although it was raining, Lerro continued despite poor visibility. Could he have stopped in time? Should he have stopped? Should he have slowed down? These questions likely can never be answered.

A fierce wind suddenly came out of the southwest, bringing a tropical-force squall and driving rain across the ship’s bow, which could not be seen by Lerro from the pilot house.

Vision was down to zero, but Lerro continued his course. He did not slow down. By this time, even if he had seen the bridge support, he likely could not have reversed the ship’s engines or changed course in time to avoid the crash.

Suddenly, Lerro could see part of the bridge directly ahead. It was not the overhead span that would indicate he was on course, but the support. And the Summit Venture was headed directly for the bridge. There were no concrete fenders guarding the support to ward off an 87,000-ton, 608-foot-long freighter.

When the ship hit the bridge, more than 1,000 feet of roadway fell into Tampa Bay, including eight passenger vehicles and a bus with 29 people inside.

One man survived when his pickup, still on the roadbed, landed on the deck of the Summit Venture, then bounced into the water. The driver was able to escape.

No one survived the 250-foot fall to the water.

What is known is that work crews and divers spent weeks looking for bodies in the 200-foot depths of Tampa Bay.

The bridge stayed closed for several days until officials reopened the two-lane northbound span for traffic in both directions. It would stay that way until April 20, 1987, when the present Sunshine Skyway Bridge was opened.

At the time it opened, the Sunshine Skyway was the world’s longest single-support span bridge. It was built for $245 million.

The new bridge has concrete fenders — called dolphins — surrounding each of the six support pilings for the center span.

Eventually, the old spans were torn down and both north and south approaches on the old Skyway Bridge were converted to fishing piers.

In November 2005, the Florida Legislature officially named the bridge linking Manatee and Pinellas counties the Bob Graham Sunshine Skyway Bridge after the governor of Florida and U.S. senator who presided over its design and construction.

Earlier this year, the remaining concrete pilings from the original disaster were removed and hauled to locations in Tampa Bay and sunk to create several artificial reefs. Two reefs are located in Manatee County waters.

On May 9, 2000, Lerro told the St. Petersburg Times in an interview marking the 20th anniversary of the accident that not a day went by when he didn’t think about what happened, the people who died, and what he should have done, or not done.

A few months after the tragedy, Lerro was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. He was 29 years old. He died in August 2002.

Listen to the recorded mayday call here,

Florida Department of Transportation press release last week said demolition of a number of portions of the Sunshine Skyway Fishing Piers has been completed with only some minor work remaining.

The DOT demolition project began in June 2011 when contractor Orion Marine Construction began removal of 27 portions of the north fishing pier and 48 from the south pier.

Renovations were made to the rest rooms and bait shops on both piers. The bait shops are open 24/7, the DOT said.

The project was needed to remove structurally unsafe portions of the fishing piers — originally sections of the Skyway Bridge that collapsed in a May 1980 crash — due to age and corrosion, the DOT said.

In Aug. 2008, the DOT and Florida Department of Environmental Protection closed the east sides of the fishing piers to maintain public safety. The western sides remained open during the project and continue to be accessible.

Some of the demolished pilings were used by the Manatee County natural resources department to create two new fishing reefs in Tampa Bay within the county limits.

One reef, the Three-Mile North Reef, is located about 3 miles west of the Manatee Public Beach in water approximately 30 feet deep.

The second reef — Southeast Reef — is about 3 miles north of Emerson Point in about 15 feet of water. David Lai Hipp of Manatee County’s natural resources department said the reefs are already attracting large numbers of baitfish, which in turn are drawing mangrove snapper, barracuda, redfish and gag grouper to the sites.

Lai Hipp said when he dove the southeast reef several months ago, he found a number of snook in the area, which he said was unusual for a submerged reef.

Fishing at both reefs will only improve as the reefs continue to grow, he said. Scuba divers also can use the reefs, he said.

Precise coordinates for the reefs are available at www.mymanatee.org on the natural resources department page, Lai Hipp said. Click on “artificial reefs,” then click on “reef map” under “Manatee County Artificial Reef Brochure.”

A map showing the precise coordinates of all 13 Manatee County artificial reefs is available at the site.

Even though Anna Maria may soon have a beach by the city pier that complies with the size authorized by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, officials do not plan to re-inspect the beach.

The renourished beach is the result of a February Bimini Bay-Key Royale Channel dredging project that removed sand from the channel and pumped it ashore at the pier.

In early March, DEP investigators examined the beach created with material pumped from Bimini Bay and determined the city had placed more sand along the shoreline than permitted, and told Mayor Mike Selby the city was in violation of its permit.

The permit authorized enough sand to extend the beach 100 feet into Tampa Bay waters and 200 feet south from the Lake LaVista jetty.

Anna Maria had requested the sand be pumped to the pier as part of its Lake LaVista dredge permit.

Ana Gibbs of the DEP-Tampa field office said the DEP won’t inspect the beach again, despite the claim that the beach is shrinking.

But Gibbs said the DEP has yet to issue its notice of violation to the city for placing more than the permitted amount of dredged sand along the pier shoreline.

At a mid-March meeting with Selby, McKay, the West Coast Inland Navigation District and DEP officials, DEP compliance inspector Lauren Greenfield said the pier beach “appears to extend approximately 40 feet further waterward and 330 feet southeast than what was authorized.”

Sand dredged periodically from the Lake LaVista inlet is used to renourish the same area of shoreline.

Greenfield said investigators in March found the beach sand extended about 150 feet into Tampa Bay waters and was approximately 600 feet long. That would be a violation of 50 feet in width and about 400 feet in length for the renourished beach.

At the time of the DEP meeting in March, Anna Maria public works superintendent George McKay and a WCIND consultant claimed sand at the new beach would probably shrink quickly to a width of about 30-60 feet into Tampa Bay waters.

It appears the prediction is coming true, without the city taking counter measures to comply with the permit and remove the excess sand.

Until the city receives an official notice from the DEP and provides for mitigation and possibly a penalty, McKay said no sand will be removed from the pier beach.

Gibbs said the Anna Maria pier beach problem is “still under review.”

That was good news to McKay.

“Every day we don’t hear from them is a good day,” he said.

And nature seems to be helping the city.

A recent estimate of the width of the beach at high tide found only about 90 feet of renourished beach at its widest point into Tampa Bay, and the length of the beach was around 400 feet. That would mean the width of the pier beach now complies with the DEP permit, but the length of the beach has to be reduced about 200 feet more.

Efforts to reach Selby for comment were unsuccessful, but McKay said if the city receives a DEP notice of violation, it would likely ask DEP officials to take another look at the shrinking beach.