ANNA MARIA ISLAND – COVID-19 will keep most Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring volunteers off the beaches as sea turtle and bird nesting seasons begin, according to Director Suzi Fox.
Turtle nesting season begins officially on May 1, but Turtle Watch volunteers usually take to the beach on April 1 each year to catch any early nesters, and already, an early loggerhead nest has been discovered on Florida’s east coast, she said.
“We need to make sure we don’t miss any nests,” said Fox, who, with another volunteer, will monitor the beaches by ATV and let the organization’s other volunteers remain safely at home for the near future.
Depending on the progress of the coronavirus, a “skeleton crew” of about a dozen volunteers on ATVs could be deployed in May, she said.
You can follow Turtle Watch’s activities on its newly-redesigned website, www.islandturtlewatch.com.
“We have to make sure the workers are safe,” Fox said. “I don’t want volunteers on the beach until this thing has passed.”
COVID-19 has affected Turtle Watch financially, too, she said, with a large source of donations drying up with the cancellation of the Farmer’s Market.
In addition, Turtle Talks have been suspended until further notice, she said, adding, “We will not be meeting face to face for at least the next two months.”
The group also monitors spring bird nesting, roping off nesting areas to keep eggs and chicks safe.
So far this year, Fox has seen black skimmers gathering at Coquina Beach and some royal terns “looking amorously at each other,” she said, adding that no snowy plovers have appeared on local beaches yet.
Ruddy turnstones, which leave by summer, are active, and a lesser black back gull has been spotted, she added.
One or two of the gulls, which are noticeably larger than most other birds on the beach, usually come each spring and leave by summer, Fox said.
Turtle Watch will be coordinating with Manatee County on the upcoming beach renourishment project, which will be done during sea turtle nesting season, she said.
The start date for the beach renourishment project is not confirmed, according to Charlie Hunsicker, director of the Manatee County Parks and Natural Resources Department, but the coronavirus has not yet affected other dredge operations in the U.S., he said.
The beach renourishment project originally slated to begin in February was delayed until April by an Army Corps of Engineers requirement that Manatee County prove its title to a section of the beach.
The six-month, two-phase project will add sand to the beach between 78th Street North in Holmes Beach to Fifth Street South in Bradenton Beach, and between Fifth Street South and Longboat Pass.
County funds for the project, estimated between $13-$16 million, come from the tourist tax; state and federal funds also are allocated to the project.
Some of my fondest memories over the years have been spending time with and experiencing the wit and wisdom of some of fishing’s most talented and engaging personalities.
One of those people was Vic Dunaway, longtime fishing editor of the Miami Herald and a co-founding editor of Florida Sportsman Magazine. I’ll always remember his quip when someone ask him what his favorite rod was. The author and humorist with a twinkle in his eye would answer, “Any given kind.” Unfortunately, outdoor writers have been branded over the years as a group of individuals (sometimes warranted) that write favorable articles for products given to them by tackle companies hoping for a good review in the outdoor press. Dunaway could get away with that joke because he didn’t fit that mold. To Dunaway, his readers were far more important than any tackle, however it was obtained.
The Bull Bay Sniper rod did an admirable job of subduing this snook (released after the picture) while telegraphing the excitement of the catch. – Rusty Chinnis | Sun
That memory resurfaced recently when I decided that I needed to upgrade my spinning tackle. I’d been following the advances in rod materials and design with regards to my fly tackle but I hadn’t gotten a new spinning outfit in over a decade. During a conversation about fly fishing with my good friend and tackle representative Rick Hess, I brought up my need to upgrade my spinning tackle and he mentioned a rod company whose line he was representing. I had forgotten that conversation until about a month ago when I attended the Manatee Chapter of the Coastal Conservation Association banquet in Palmetto. I thought that would be a perfect opportunity to buy a new outfit while supporting the iconic conservation organization. I purchased a new Shimano spinning reel there but never found an outfit that matched my needs.
I had heard of Bull Bay Rods but had never seen or used one when Hess told me not to buy a rod until I had a chance to try one. I instantly loved the fit and feel of the Sniper Series rod he picked and it matched my reel perfectly. On my first time out, a quick bike ride to the Longboat Pass Bridge, I caught three mackerel and was sold. The rod is beautifully made, light and responsive for all fish, has fast action and the backbone to fight bigger fish.
Bull Bay Rods was founded as a custom rod company by father and son team Kelly and Dustin Phillips in 2012. The Phillips had been disappointed in the service they had received after the breakage of some off the shelf tackle they had purchased. A few years later they partnered with Mike Anderson, host of the Reel Animals Fishing TV and Radio show, and in 2015 they launched their first custom line. Since then they have expanded into multiple lines servicing inshore, offshore and freshwater anglers. The rod Hess suggested for me was their Sniper Series that, as its name implies, was built for long, accurate casts. Although I didn’t have to pay for the rod, I made sure that there were no strings attached. I made him aware that I would never represent a product to my readers that I wouldn’t use myself. I had no problem like that with this rod. On my second outing, I sight fished a nice snook and really got to test the rod. As advertised, the rod allowed me to make an accurate cast, and when the snook hit my jig I was impressed with the way it handled the runs and jumps while telegraphing the best of the experience. I can in good faith offer a positive endorsement to my readers. Since we all have individual tastes and needs, I would advise readers to try one and make their own decisions. If you want more information on Bull Bay Rods, visit their website. You can experience the feel and purchase a rod locally at Discount Tackle in Bradenton.
ANNA MARIA ISLAND – Manatee County’s public beaches on Anna Maria Island are closed until further notice as of Friday, March 20.
Manatee Beach in Holmes Beach March 21-22. - Troy Morgan | PhotosFromTheAir.com
Bean Point in Anna Maria March 21-22. - Troy Morgan | PhotosFromTheAir.com
Anna Maria beach March 21-22. - Troy Morgan | PhotosFromTheAir.com
Bradenton Beach March 21-22. - Troy Morgan | PhotosFromTheAir.com
Manatee Beach in Holmes Beach March 21-22. - Troy Morgan | PhotosFromTheAir.com
Anna Maria Island beaches March 21-22. - Troy Morgan | PhotosFromTheAir.com
Manatee Beach in Holmes Beach March 21-22. - Troy Morgan | PhotosFromTheAir.com
The beach closures are a precautionary measure being taken because of the coronavirus (COVID-19).
On Thursday, March 19, Manatee County issued a press release that said, “County and municipal officials today announced that the beaches of Anna Maria Island will close tomorrow, March 20, at 6 a.m.”
“Resort guests, those who live on the Island and those who can find a legal public parking space outside of those areas that are closed will still have access to the beach at this time. We still want you to keep the six-foot distance and no groups larger than 10.” – Lt. John Cosby, BBPD
The press release also said, “Manatee County lifeguards will remain on duty from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily to ensure the safety of those who disregard the closure. A double red flag indicating no swimming will fly from lifeguard stands.”
The gates at Manatee Beach in Holmes Beach remain locked. – Joe Hendricks
The county-owned parking lots at Coquina Beach and Cortez Beach in Bradenton Beach closed Friday morning as announced. So did the parking lot at Manatee Beach in Holmes Beach. The gates at Coquina Beach and Manatee Beach are locked and signs affixed to the gates say, “Beach closed.”
The ungated Cortez Beach parking areas along Gulf Drive South are closed and blocked by barricades, plastic tape and “Beach closed” signs.
The Cortez Beach parking lots in Bradenton Beach are closed. – Joe Hendricks | Sun
Intended enforcement
Thursday afternoon, Holmes Beach Police Chief Bill Tokajer issued a press release in response to the county’s announcement.
“The Holmes Beach Police Department and Code Compliance Department are enforcing this policy by eliminating public parking. We will continue to proactively patrol the beach to be sure our residents and guests are following the guidance of social distancing. Many additional parking areas will be changed to no parking zones. The enforcement guidelines will change based on the daily observations,” according to Tokajer’s press release.
These Bradenton Beach police officers were stationed at the main Coquina Beach entrance Friday morning. – Joe Hendricks | Sun
Lt. John Cosby, of the Bradenton Beach Police Department, said, “Resort guests, those who live on the Island and those who can find a legal public parking space outside of those areas that are closed will still have access to the beach at this time. We still want you to keep the six-foot distance and no groups larger than 10.”
Cosby and Tokajer said they had no plans to close the street-end beach accesses.
The beach accesses in Holmes Beach remain open. – Joe Hendricks | Sun
On Friday morning, Anna Maria Mayor Dan Murphy issued an email addressing the city of Anna Maria’s beach closures.
“Although our beaches remain closed to the general public, they are open to residents and their guests while practicing safe social distancing. There are sheriff deputies as well as city and county code enforcement officers posted at many beach access points to enforce and clarify this position,” according to Murphy’s email.
Manatee County Sheriff Rick Wells addressed the beach closures during a county press conference Friday afternoon.
Manatee County Sheriff Rick Wells said law enforcement does not want to arrest people who enter the closed beaches. – Joe Hendricks | Sun
“First and foremost, I want to assure the citizens of Manatee County that we are not out on the beaches trying to arrest people who do show up there and maybe have not received the message. We are asking for voluntary compliance. We are not there trying to incarcerate people for walking on the beach. That is not the goal,” Wells said.
When asked for further clarification on the extent of the beach closures, Manatee County Information Outreach Manager Nick Azzara said, “In the announcement we sent yesterday, when we closed the beaches, we tried to make clear that this was largely a self-policing exercise and that we were relying on our residents and visitors to make a good faith effort in heeding those warnings. We’re asking people to avoid the beaches.”
Manatee County Public Safety Director Jake Saur said there were no plans to close the county boat ramps.
The parking lots at the Coquina boat ramps are supposed to be used by boaters only. – Joe Hendricks | Sun
Tour of the beaches
The Sun made a tour of the Island beaches on Friday.
At Coquina Beach late Friday morning, two officers and two vehicles from the Bradenton Beach Police Department were stationed at the main entrance where the gate was open so the free Island trolley could continue making its regular stops.
The beach concession stand was closed and there were only two people walking the shoreline of the otherwise empty beach.
Across the street, the North and South Coquina boat ramps were open to boaters. Manatee Beach Patrol personnel were stationed at the entrances to both boat ramp parking lots and they turned away those who sought to park there for non-boating purposes.
To the north along Cortez Beach, there were people on the beach, but not in large numbers.
The beach between the Moose Lodge and the BeachHouse restaurant in Bradenton Beach had a moderate number of beachgoers. – Joe Hendricks | Sun
Slightly north of that, there were people on the beach between the Moose Lodge and the BeachHouse restaurant, some in the water.
At approximately 3:45 p.m., there were fewer than a dozen people at Manatee Beach in Holmes Beach and the central part of the beach was empty. The beach areas south of Manatee Beach were much busier.
The central section of Manatee Beach in Holmes Beach was empty Friday afternoon. – Joe Hendricks | Sun
Because of the executive order that Gov. Ron DeSantis issued Friday afternoon limiting Florida restaurants to takeout service only, the tiki bar was already closed. The AMI Beach Café and gift shop closed later that day and remains closed until further notice.
Two blocks north of Manatee Beach, the 45th Street beach access was open as usual. There were people on the beach, but not in large numbers. The beach areas north of the 45th Street beach access were much busier.
The beach north of the 45th Street beach access in Holmes Beach was very busy Friday afternoon. – Joe Hendricks | Sun
Those entering the city of Anna Maria at the north end of the Island are now greeted by a digital sign that says, “Beaches closed.” A similar sign stands near the new City Pier.
The Bayfront Park parking lot is closed and blocked by “Beach closed” signs and plastic tape.
There are two new mounted “Beach closed” signs at the entrance to the North Bay Boulevard beach access that leads to Bean Point.
“Beach closed” signs are now posted at beach accesses in Anna Maria.- Joe Hendricks | Sun
Murphy told The Sun he plans to add additional signs that say, “Residents only.” He said city residents may be asked to provide identification and rental guests may be asked to show proof of rental when accessing Anna Maria’s beaches.
Vacationing Wisconsin residents Mary and Ralph Cornell were parking their bikes by the dune walkover before taking a walk on the Bean Point beach.
Wisconsin residents Ralph and Mary Cornell want to continue visiting the beaches while vacationing in Anna Maria. – Joe Hendricks | Sun
Regarding the beach closings, Mary Cornell said, “I think it’s the wise thing to do. They’re just trying to keep the number of people down, but it allows the local residents and people like us who stay for a long period of time to walk the beach. We don’t gather in big groups. We just want to be able to see the beach and the sunsets. You have great sunsets here and we really don’t want to miss those.”
There were about 20 people on that stretch of the Bean Point beach, including a few families.
These folks enjoyed the beach at Bean Point Friday late Friday afternoon. – Joe Hendricks | Sun
Just after sunset, there were still many cars parked at the Palma Sola Causeway on Manatee Avenue despite the presence of several “Beach closed” signs.
At 10:30 Saturday morning, an occupied police car from the Bradenton Police Department was parked at the east end of the non-barricaded causeway parking area. There was no one on the beach and no other cars parked on either side of the causeway.
The Bradenton Police Department patrolled the causeway beaches on Saturday. – Joe Hendricks | Sun
When contacted Saturday afternoon, Lt. Cosby said everything was going fine and they had not had any problems.
MANATEE COUNTY – In reaction and response to the ongoing coronavirus (COVID-19) concerns, Manatee County’s public beaches will be closed as of Friday, March 20 at 6 a.m.
Manatee County Public Safety Director Jacob Saur made this announcement with Sarasota County officials on Thursday afternoon at a 3 p.m. press conference at the Sarasota County Emergency Operations Center.
Sarasota County’s public beaches will close at 6 a.m. on Saturday morning, March 21.
Manatee County issued a beach closure-related press release at 3 p.m. Thursday.
Regarding the public beaches in Manatee County, the press release said, “Parking lots will be closed and signs placed to alert drivers, and we expect that most people will heed that advice.”
The Coquina Beach parking lot in Bradenton Beach will be closed as of Friday morning. – Joe Hendricks | Sun
The parking lots referred to are at the three county beaches on Anna Maria Island – Coquina Beach and Cortez Beach in Bradenton Beach and Manatee Beach in Holmes Beach.
What it means
On Thursday afternoon, Holmes Beach Police Chief Bill Tokajer issued a press release regarding the county’s announcement.
“The Holmes Beach Police Department and Code Compliance Department are enforcing this policy by eliminating public parking. We will continue to proactively patrol the beach to be sure our residents and guests are following the guidance of social distancing. The gates at the public beach located at 4000 Gulf Drive will be locked. Many additional parking areas will be changed to no parking zones. This reduces Holmes Beach’s right of way parking by 70 to 80%. The enforcement guidelines will change based on the daily observations,” Tokajer said in his press release.
When contacted, Tokajer also said the Island’s vacation rental companies are being updated on the closures and any developments that occur.
Folks enjoyed the last few hours of normal beach operations at Manatee Beach Thursday afternoon. – Joe Hendricks | Sun
Lt. John Cosby from the Bradenton Beach Police Department said, “Resort guests, those who live on the Island and those who can find a legal public parking space outside of those areas that are closed will still have access to the beach at this time. We still want you to keep the six-foot distance and no groups larger than 10.”
Cosby said the city of Bradenton Beach currently has no plans to close the public beach access points, some of which are located at city street ends and provide limited or no public parking.
On Thursday afternoon, beachgoers enjoyed the final hours of Coquina Beach being open. – Joe Hendricks | Sun
A one-sentence message posted at the city of Anna Maria website Thursday says, “All beaches in the city of Anna Maria will be closed effective 6 a.m. Friday 3/20/20 until further notice.”
Anna Maria Mayor Dan Murphy was not available for comment after the announcement was made Thursday afternoon.
County statements
In Thursday’s press release, County Administrator Cheri Coryea said, “Each day as our local situation has changed and new advisories have been sent, Manatee County residents have heeded warnings and taken official advice seriously. We’re hoping for more of the same with our beach announcement.”
The press release notes Manatee County lifeguards will remain on duty from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily to ensure the safety of those who disregard the closure. A double red flag, indicating no swimming, will fly from lifeguard stands.
“Manatee County Code Enforcement Officers will assist the Island communities enforcing the beach closure. The Anna Maria Island Trolley will continue to operate,” the press release says.
While the Coquina Beach Cafe will be closing, for now, the Anna Maria Island Beach Cafe at Manatee Beach will remain open.
The concession at Manatee Beach will remain open during the beach closures. – Joe Hendricks | Sun
Coryea said the decision was made to close beaches with careful input from the mayors on Anna Maria Island, and after speaking with Sarasota County officials in order to continue the close coordination of the two counties during the coronavirus outbreak.
“This is not a step we take lightly to close our beaches, but together with the advice of the public health officials we believe it is a step that’s in the public’s best interest,” Coryea said in the press release.
“Our primary concern is the health and safety of our residents and visitors and the people they return home to. The leadership of the Island cities of Bradenton Beach, Holmes Beach, Anna Maria and the Town of Longboat Key collectively brainstormed this decision and will have the authority to manage the impacts in their community,” Coryea said in the press release.
Coryea, Manatee County Sheriff Rick Wells, Manatee County Department of Health Officer Dr. Jennifer Bencie and Saur will provide more details on the local COVID-19 response during a press conference Friday afternoon at 2 p.m.
Updated Monday, March 23 | There are 1,227 reported positive cases of the coronavirus (COVID-19) in Florida and 18 reported deaths, according to the Florida Department of Health’s COVID-19 Data and Surveillance Dashboard. In Manatee County, there are 15 positive cases and one reported death. The age range for the Manatee County cases is 14 to 81 years old, with an average age of 64. Eight of the positive cases are men, seven are women and seven positive cases were hospitalized. Sarasota County has 21 reported positive cases and one reported death. Pinellas County has 41 reported cases and one reported death. Hillsborough County has 75 reported cases and no deaths. The FDOH Dashboard is updated at least twice daily.
MANATEE COUNTY – A Manatee County resident has died after testing positive for the coronavirus (COVID-19).
The Manatee County death reported on Tuesday was the first reported COVID-19 related death in Manatee County.
“One person has died in Manatee County who tested positive for COVID-19,” said the Florida Department of Health (FDOH) press release issued Tuesday evening.
At that time, there were seven COVID-19 related death in Florida, according to FDOH.
This evening, the FDOH announced an eighth Florida death, which was in Clay County.
As of 7 p.m. this evening, the FDOH COVID-19 Data and Surveillance Dashboard listed eight reported COVID-19 cases in Manatee County.
According to the FDOH Dashboard, 45 tests had been administered in Manatee County, with eight positive tests, 27 negative tests and 10 test results still pending. Five of the positive reported Manatee County case were men and three were women. The age range was 61-81 years old. Only one of the eight reported cases in Manatee County was listed as travel-related.
As of 7 p.m., there were 328 reported COVID-19 positive cases in Florida. According to the FDOH Dashboard, there were 80 reported cases in Broward County, 77 reported cases in Miami-Dade County and 21 reported cases in Palm Beach County. Those three southeast Florida counties accounted for 178 of reported positive cases – 54 percent of the reported cases in Florida.
Sarasota County had four reported cases. Hillsborough County had 14 cases.
County buildings closed
On Tuesday, March 17, Manatee County issued a press release announcing several county closings.
“In accordance with the President’s Coronavirus Guidelines for America, which recommend avoiding gatherings of more than 10 people, Manatee County Government will be closing all public buildings to the public for walk-in services for the next 15 days. All buildings will remain closed beginning at 8 a.m. on March 18,” Tuesday’s press release said.
“County staff will continue to serve the public and services will continue to operate. The public is encouraged to conduct transactions with the County online or over the phone whenever possible. Citizens can call 3-1-1 for more information.”
The list of public buildings now closed includes:
The County Administration Building;
All Manatee County Public Library locations, including the Island Branch Library. Online resources are still available for check out and late materials fines and fees will be forgiven;
Manatee County Animal Services locations;
T. Bray Recreation Center – all athletic league games and other organized events are canceled;
The Bradenton Area Convention Center;
All locations for Building and Development Services and Veterans Services;
The Utilities Administration Building;
The Manatee County Clerk of Court Historic Courthouse;
The Manatee County Property Appraiser office.
Manatee County Area Transit services will continue to operate as normal, including Handy Bus services.
In the press release, County Administrator Cheri Coryea is quoted as saying, “Transit Services remain a vital service for individuals without access to essentials such as grocery stores, pharmacies, and medical appointments.”
“Manatee County parks, outdoor amenities, preserves and beaches remain open for now and the public is encouraged to exercise social distancing when out in public places. Under the Governor’s order, beaches may remain open but restricted to 10 persons in each group and a distance of six feet between parties,” the press release said.
In the press release, Coryea said, “This is an hour-by-hour emergency event and should a new directive need to be implemented to further protect the public we will make that call.”
According to the press release, all public county meetings during the next 15 days will be canceled or rescheduled.
ANNA MARIA ISLAND – As of this evening, there were no plans to close Manatee County’s public beaches on Anna Maria Island.
Sarasota County beaches also remain open as of tonight.
This afternoon, the city of Tampa announced its public beaches were closing tonight at sunset. This evening, the city of Clearwater announced it was closing its public beaches on Monday, March 23.
On Anna Maria Island, Manatee County’s public beaches are the Manatee Public Beach in Holmes Beach and Coquina Beach and Cortez Beach in Bradenton Beach. The county also maintains Bayfront Park, which is owned by the city of Anna Maria.
There are also numerous public beach access points along the Gulf of Mexico coastline, many of which are located at city street ends in Anna Maria, Bradenton Beach and Holmes Beach.
Manatee County’s position on keeping the beaches open was first expressed by County Administrator Cheri Coryea on Monday, March 16, in an email she sent to city and town officials in Manatee County. Coryea also stated the beaches would remain open during the County Commission’s emergency meeting later that afternoon.
Today, the status of the county beaches was discussed by county and city officials during the weekly Emergency Policy Group meeting chaired by Manatee County Public Safety Director Jacob Saur.
After today’s meeting, Coryea distributed a written recap of the meeting. According to Coryea’s recap, Holmes Beach Mayor Judy Titsworth suggested reducing the Manatee Public Beach parking lot to 50 percent capacity – an action that was not taken.
“Holmes Beach Mayor said that today was much better at the beach. All other municipalities agreed,” Coryea’s email recap said.
According to Coryea, an Amber Alert was issued to cell phone users clarifying the social distancing policies included in Governor’s Ron DeSantis’ Tuesday, March 17 Executive Order.
“I direct parties accessing public beaches in the State of Florida to follow CDC guidance by limiting their gatherings to no more than 10 persons, distance themselves by 6 feet and support beach closures at the discretion of local authorities,” the Governor’s executive order said.
Coryea’s email said existing digital message boards would mention the social distancing guidelines and signs would be placed “all over the beach” reminding people about social distancing.
Her email recap said county personnel, as possible, would use four-wheelers to travel up and down the beach using a bullhorn to repeat the social distancing message.
A banner that says, “Make a Difference/Keep a Distance” that would be towed behind a plane flying along the Anna Maria Island coastline was discussed but not implemented.
According to Coryea’s email, there are also no plans to implement a county curfew.
“Not needed yet,” her email said.
Mayor’s suggestions
When contacted this evening, Mayor Titsworth discussed her beach-related suggestions and the conversations that took place at Wednesday’s meeting.
“I was wondering if we should cut the public beach to half capacity parking just to make it so there’s not as many people in such a small area, but that would be a hard thing for the police to enforce because there’s several entrances into the beach,” Titsworth said regarding the Manatee Public Beach in Holmes Beach.
“I was getting complaints that there’s so many people on the beaches. Before the meeting today, I had the Chief (Police Chief Bill Tokajer) go up and down the beach and look for groups larger than 10 and for people staying apart from each other. He was pleasantly pleased that everyone seemed to be in smaller groups, and everyone was keeping their distance. He felt he was comfortable with it,” Titsworth said.
“The café’s already gone to half capacity, so they’re working hard on that,” she said in reference to Governor Ron DeSantis’ executive order ordering all Florida restaurants to reduce their capacity by 50%.
“During the meeting today, I said it looked like it was way better than it was on the weekend, but we have another weekend coming up and we’re going to have to keep monitoring it,” Titsworth said.
“The county wasn’t ready to do anything. John Chappie (the Bradenton Beach mayor) wasn’t ready to do anything. So, we said let’s continue monitoring because every day’s a new day. We also said if we find neighboring beaches are going to start closing – which would draw more people to ours – we’ll have to look at that as well,” Titsworth said.
Regarding the Tampa beaches being closed and the St. Petersburg beaches closing on Monday, Titsworth said, “That’s probably going to have an effect on ours, which is too bad. If people can self-disperse it at least gets them outside, which is healthy. You hate to have everybody trapped in climate-controlled environments, especially with all these kids.”
Anna Maria beaches
On Tuesday, March 17, Anna Maria Mayor Dan Murphy said he had no intentions to close the city beaches. He said the city doesn’t have the resources to enforce city-wide beach closures.
HOLMES BEACH – Amid growing COVID-19, also known as the coronavirus, concerns, Mayor Judy Titsworth declared a temporary state of emergency March 17. The state of emergency will last for seven days before it will either expire or another state of emergency will need to be declared.
Under the state of emergency, the city is eligible for federal and state emergency funds, if needed.
As of March 18, eight cases of patients with the coronavirus in Manatee County had been confirmed by the Florida Department of Health.
For residents and visitors to Holmes Beach, the declared state of emergency means that Titsworth may limit or suspend the sale of alcoholic beverages, establish a curfew and stop price gouging, among other things. Currently, no restrictions have been placed on Holmes Beach residents and visitors though everyone is encouraged by city, state and federal leaders to practice social distancing, limit gatherings to 10 people or less and wash hands regularly.
Some business owners have restrictions placed on them but those have come from the state. Gov. Ron DeSantis required all bars and nightclubs in the state of Florida to close for a 30-day period beginning at 5 p.m. on March 17. Restaurants can still operate, however, they are required to operate at 50% seating capacity for the safety of staff and diners.
Local schools also are affected by the coronavirus with schools, including Anna Maria Elementary School, shuttered until April 15. Manatee County School District employees will return to work for the week of March 23-27 to complete instructions for K-12 students to continue learning at home beginning March 30 using a remote learning program called Schoology. Students will be able to work online from home and communicate with their teachers through the program.
State testing and school grades for the year are canceled by DeSantis with students to have the option of moving forward next school year or remaining in their current grade.
ANNA MARIA – After taking into consideration guidance from the National Centers for Disease Control and the concerns of parishioners, leadership at Roser Memorial Community Church made the decision March 17 to close the church’s doors to the public, temporarily moving all worship services online.
The closure of the church building has caused the cancellation of the popular senior aerobics class RoserRobics and the church’s annual Easter cantata, planned for March 29 as well as other programming.
For now, everyone is invited to join the church online with both the 10 a.m. Sunday traditional worship service and the 5:30 p.m. Sunday SoulJourn contemporary worship service being broadcast live online. Previous worship services can be viewed any time on the church’s YouTube channel.
In addition to the Sunday worship services, regular bible studies also will continue online at the church’s website. Terrific Tuesday bible studies will take place live online at 6:15 p.m. on Tuesdays with previous sessions available to view on YouTube at any time.
All other planned church events and meals are currently canceled.
The Roser Thrift Shop also is temporarily closed due to coronavirus concerns.
The Roser Food Pantry remains open to those in need by appointment only. Please call the church office at 941-778-0414 to schedule an appointment or if you wish to drop off a donation. Recommended items for donation include cereal, soup, canned fruits and vegetables, fruit juices and dried rice, potatoes and pasta. For more information, visit the food pantry online.
Updated March 19, 2020 – Masses are suspended from March 20 until after Easter. The dispensation for Catholics is now unconditional, according to the Diocese of Venice.
Catholics living in or visiting Anna Maria Island may not be obligated to attend Mass due to the coronavirus threat, according to a letter from the Most Rev. Frank J. Dewane, Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Venice in Florida:
“The Mass is the source and summit of our Christian life and allows us to encounter Jesus in the Eucharist and strengthens our sense of community. As Catholics, we are all obliged to participate in Mass on Sundays and other Holy Days of Obligation. Yet in these difficult times, there is also an obligation to protect the vulnerable and those who may care for them.
During the current public health emergency facing all, for guidance we look to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and the State Health Department to help mitigate the spread of the coronavirus. As regards the Mass, several precautions have already been put into place within the Diocese of Venice to limit the spread of this virus.
Out of pastoral concern for the health and wellbeing of the Faithful, the following dispensations are indicated: those who are sick and those providing care for them; those with chronic medical conditions or severely compromised immune systems; those whose age or frailty causes them to be at greater risk; those that have been exposed to the coronavirus; and those who, because of anxiety, may decide not to attend Mass, are dispensed from the obligation. Until further notice, this dispensation shall remain valid. If circumstances dictate otherwise in coming days, the Diocese will make a timely announcement.
As Catholics, we trust in the power of prayer. Please join me in praying for all those who have lost their life and their loved ones, may they be consoled. We also pray for the sick, caretakers, medical providers and all impacted by this pandemic. United for a common good, we can overcome fear and together face the challenges in the days ahead.
The Diocese will continue to monitor the situation and update, as appropriate, on the Diocesan website
During this Lenten Season, and this time of trial, I extend to each of you the assurances of my prayers.
– Sincerely yours in Christ, Frank J. Dewane, Bishop of the Diocese of Venice in Florida.”
ANNA MARIA – The youth flag football winter season came to a close March 10 with the three championship games played at The Center of Anna Maria Island. Of the six teams that played, only three would be named the victors.
In the eight-to 10-year old league, HSH Designs came out on top with a 39-16 victory over Cool Today.
Cool Today’s Peyton Hovda had two rushing touchdowns in the game and was named the league’s male MVP for the season. Hovda also completed a two-point conversion reception for his team.
The league’s female MVP, HSH’s Savanna Coba, caught two passes, one for six points.
In addition to being named Most Improved Player, Noah Rigney made a catching touchdown, along for an extra point, for HSH Designs.
Cale Rudacille was voted the recipient of the Sportsmanship Award for the season.
Bailey Cain scored two points for Cool Today with a two-point play. Teammate Chad Nunez made two catches in the game.
Earning the win, Connor Samblis made a rushing touchdown for HSH Designs. Charlie Neri, in the quarterback position, recorded three passing throws.
HSH’s Chase Signor made a touchdown catch to add to his two additional receptions in the game.
Contributing to the offensive game for HSH Designs, Sterling Holiday finished the championship game with three grabs.
Ugly Grouper took home the big win against Slim’s Place in the 11-to 13-year old league.
Slim’s Place’s JM Feeney scored a rushing touchdown and was named the male MVP. Gabriella Gilbert had a running score herself for Ugly Grouper. Gilbert was voted the female MVP for the predominantly middle school league.
Despite the loss, Jaxon Rush caught the football for a touchdown, along with five other big catches. Ben Rigney made a nice catch for Slim’s Place.
With four rushing touchdowns for the win for team Ugly Grouper, Ashton Hovda can be seen as the championship game’s MVP.
Jackson Zoller made four critical receptions for the Ugly Grouper offense in addition to scoring two points in a conversion play. Teammates and brothers Mikey and Frankie Coleman both had catches of their own in the game. M. Coleman had a one-point conversion to add to his team’s scoring.
Ugly Grouper’s scoring was made complete with a touchdown by Brennan Gunter.
Additional league awards went to Matthew Hennesey as the Most Improved Player and Jack Mattick receiving the Sportsmanship award.
In perhaps the most anticipated youth flag football game of the season, Hashmark Sports took the field against MuniPlan.
Playing without their second-round draft choice, Blake Balais, the league’s Quarterback of the Year Tuna McCracken was missing a key target. Despite the deficit, MuniPlan put 19 points on the scoreboard with rushing touchdowns by McCracken.
MuniPlan’s offensive action was spread across the roster with two catches by Tyler Brewer, Morgan Horesh and David Daigle. McCracken caught the football for a single statistic in the game.
In their big win, Hashmark Sports’ Ian Godefry, voted league Most Improved Player, made threw for three touchdowns. Team MVP in the game could be given to Shawn Balvin with five total catches, three for touchdowns. Balvin scored an extra point to add to his game statistics.
Nate Costello, league MVP, and Chance Howard also each scored a touchdown and extra point.
Hashmark Sports’ Noah Costello had two sacks in the game, with brother Nate marking a single sack.
Defensively, Alex McCauley’s interception was a big part of the team’s win against the number one seed team for the championship.
Cole Carter was bestowed the Sportsmanship award in the award ceremony that followed the final game to end another youth flag football season.
CORTEZ – Three Cortez women, local historian Dr. Mary Fulford Green, artist Linda Molto and former Manatee County Commissioner Jane von Hahmann, were honored on Friday by the Manatee Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution, based in Anna Maria.
The March awards highlight both Manatee History Month and Women’s History Month in recognizing women’s contributions to the preservation of the historic fishing village of Cortez, according to Manatee Chapter DAR Regent Kathy Doddridge, who presented the awards at the Kirby Stewart American Legion Post in Bradenton.
The trio are “ordinary women who have achieved extraordinary things,” she said.
Dr. Mary Fulford Green
The DAR National Historic Preservation Recognition Award was awarded to Dr. Mary Fulford Green, who was unable to attend for health reasons.
Dr. Mary Fulford Green, dressed as her grandmother during a history talk she gave recently at the Cortez Cultural Center, was awarded the DAR Historic Preservation Recognition Award. – Cindy Lane | Sun
Doddridge detailed highlights of her life. Born in Cortez in 1925, Green is the granddaughter of 1887 Cortez settlers William Thomas Fulford and Sallie Adams of Carteret County, North Carolina, whose Cortez home Fulford lives in.
She was valedictorian of her 1942 Bradenton High School class (now Manatee High School) and earned a B.A. in science, M.A. in chemistry and Ph.D. in education from Florida State College for Women (now Florida State University) in Tallahassee.
She was a founder of Hope Family Services in 1979 and served as president of Manatee County’s Mental Health Association for seven years.
Green was instrumental in establishing the Cortez Village Historical Society (CVHS) in 1984 and in getting the village of Cortez on the south side of Cortez Road on the National Register of Historic Places in 1995.
With fellow award-winner Linda Molto, Green wrote “Cortez – Then and Now” in 1997; they also produced the Walking Tour Map of the Cortez Fishing Village.
Robin Schoch, who accepted the award for Green, said that Green has also worked on successfully opposing a 65-foot-tall bridge from Cortez to Anna Maria Island, a proposed marina development in the village, and the proposed purchase of the Cortez Trailer Park.
Linda Molto
Originally from Toronto, Canada, Cortez artist Linda Molto also received a National Historic Preservation Recognition Award.
She moved to Florida in 1965 and purchased a 1920s home in Cortez village, next to the parsonage of the Church of God. When the parsonage was slated for demolition in 1992, she protested at a CVHS meeting, joined the group and remains an active member.
Molto worked with Green on obtaining National Register of Historic Places status for Cortez.
She has served on the board of FISH (Florida Institute for Saltwater Heritage) since its inception in 1991, and was instrumental in purchasing land east of Cortez village to create the FISH Preserve. She organized the Cortez Historic Homes Tour in 2004-05 to help pay for preserve property.
Molto is currently involved in protesting the proposed 65-foot-tall bridge from Cortez to Anna Maria Island.
Molto showed the DAR group a piece of artwork she created of the first person she met in Cortez, a young boy selling mangos for 2 cents each.
Cortez is “a place that you don’t see anymore, where it feels like home,” she said.
While residents have their differences, above all, they are neighbors who are there for each other, she said.
Jane von Hahmann
FISH board member and former Manatee County Commissioner Jane von Hahmann was presented the DAR Community Service Award for her longstanding support for FISH.
Established in 1991, FISH sponsors the annual Cortez Commercial Fishing Festival, which provides funds to restore, maintain and enlarge the 98-acre FISH Preserve.
This year, the festival netted about $60,000, von Hahmann told the group, close to last year’s net, and attracted more than 20,000 people over the two-day event in February. She has been the co-chair of the festival for the past nine years.
FISH has removed invasive plant species from the preserve, planted native vegetation and created tidal channels.
Outside the preserve, FISH projects include the restoration of the 1890 Burton Store, turning the Church of God into Fishermen’s Hall, renovating the FISH Boatworks and the Cortez firehouse and more.
Von Hahmann also has volunteered with the Sarasota Bay Estuary Program and opposed large developments including Aqua on the Bay and the 65-foot-tall bridge proposed from Cortez to Anna Maria Island.
Cortez has been battling encroachment for 135 years, von Hahmann told the group, adding, “You can’t know where you’re going if you don’t know where you’ve been.”
ANNA MARIA – The 60-day temporary emergency building moratorium enacted Wednesday, March 4 now includes a new hardship provision to allow some projects to break ground despite the moratorium.
The emergency moratorium prohibits the city of Anna Maria’s building department from processing new building permit applications for the construction of a new single-family home. The emergency moratorium also applies to the renovation of an existing home that increases the square footage or lot coverage. The emergency moratorium applies to all such projects not in the city’s permitting pipeline as of March 4.
The emergency moratorium does not apply to swimming pool permits or renovations that do not increase square footage or lot coverage.
To be followed by a six-month, non-emergency moratorium, the building moratorium gives the city time to study the potential implementation of impact fees that would be charged to builders upon the completion of their projects, according to city officials. Impact fees would help the city offset the impacts new construction, including large vacation rental homes, is having on city streets, drainage, stormwater projects, recreational facilities and more.
A moratorium also gives the city time to review and revise the existing building codes that no longer accomplish the city’s intended goal, and to implement new codes to address construction site parking and staging areas, construction delivery times and other issues not currently addressed by city code.
The city also wants to reduce the time it takes for builders to get their projects permitted.
Hardship waiver
In response to the initial industry reaction to the emergency building moratorium, the commission’s Thursday, March 12 adoption of Ordinance 20-865 added the hardship waiver process to the 60-day moratorium.
A hardship waiver, if granted, would allow a not-yet-permitted project to begin the permitting process and begin construction while the building moratorium is in effect.
Each hardship waiver request will be granted or denied by Mayor Dan Murphy on a case-by-case basis. Those who wish to challenge a waiver denial can appeal to the city commission, whose ruling would be final.
According to the ordinance, an application for a waiver must include the following:
A complete building permit application and complete building plans;
The basis for the hardship, which may include the reason or reasons the permit application was not yet submitted;
The intended use of the house to be built;
Whether the applicant is currently a resident of Anna Maria or intends their new home to be their permanent residence;
Any other basis for a finding of hardship.
Applicants have until Tuesday, March 31 to request a hardship waiver.
Commissioner Jon Crane said he doesn’t want hardship waivers automatically rubber-stamped.
Crane and Commissioner Carol Carter said those seeking waivers need to verify and prove their hardship.
The commission adopted Ordinance 20-865 by a 4-1 vote, with Crane voting in opposition.
Public input
During public input, Moss Builders co-owner Jim Moss provided an example of a legitimate hardship.
Moss said he has a female client who is selling her home up north and wants to move to Anna Maria. Moss said she already bought her property, hired a contractor, engineer and architect and took out a construction loan to build her new “dream home.”
Moss said the woman already took her first draw on the construction loan and he previously anticipated starting the city permitting process in approximately two weeks.
Moss also said significant changes made to the existing building codes could destroy his client.
He noted that a couple of commissioners recently built new homes and he hopes they don’t impose codes that are more restrictive than those in place when they built their homes.
“Treat your neighbor as yourself,” Moss told the commission.
Extended moratorium on the way
The emergency moratorium provides the commission the time needed to enact a six-month temporary building moratorium.
First read on March 4, the six-month moratorium’s enabling ordinance, Ordinance 20-864, will be reviewed by the Planning and Zoning board before it returns to commissioners for second reading and final adoption.
As currently written, the six-month moratorium would prohibit new pool permits. Public input provided by builders and others during the upcoming planning board and city commission hearings will help craft the final language that establishes the six-month moratorium.
BRADENTON – As a fifth case of coronavirus (COVID-19) was announced in Manatee County today, commissioners declared a state of emergency.
Manatee County Public Safety Department Director Jake Sauer made the announcement during Monday afternoon’s emergency Manatee County Commission meeting.
“We added one today for a total of five residents in Manatee County that have tested positive for COVID-19. We have 25 under public health monitoring within the county,” Sauer said.
“So far in Manatee County, there are zero fatalities related to COVID-19. So far in Florida, there are four deaths. Positive cases, 136. There’s a lot of data coming in and as soon as I say these things they’re already out of date,” Sauer said of those numbers.
Florida has several confirmed COVID-19 cases and exposures related to ports and airports, Sauer said.
He also noted Florida has a large tourist population and a large population of elderly citizens.
“These factors make Florida communities particularly vulnerable to the spread of COVID-19,” Sauer said. “We are nowhere near the peak of this and you should expect to see more cases come online as testing becomes available.”
Sauer stressed the importance of taking precautionary measures that include avoiding large crowds and staying home if you’re sick.
“Moving forward we must all be proactive rather than reactive. It is not a time to panic. It’s a time to plan and prepare. There’s not a supply chain problem and there’s not a supply problem. You do not need to hoard supplies,” Sauer said.
Dr. Bencie speaks
Sauer then deferred to Dr. Jennifer Bencie, director of the Florida Department of Health in Manatee County.
“The new and uncharted territory we’re entering with this disease and the tremendous publicity that it is generating can only deepen concerns. Now is not the time to panic, but a time to unite and a time to practice prevention tips,” Bencie said.
“Although we’re only at the start of this pandemic, with no idea how long it will last, we will surely see this public health event through, just as we have with so many others in the past,” she added.
“As of one o’clock today, Manatee County has seen five cases of the disease. I’m happy at this time there are no deaths in Manatee County due to this illness and that those who have been diagnosed have either recovered or are in the recovery phase,” Bencie said.
“Our team continues to track and monitor anyone who may be at risk for having coronavirus based on symptoms, travel history, contact with those who’ve been diagnosed with the disease and other criteria,” Bencie said.
Bencie said the symptoms of COVID-19 include a fever of 100.4 degrees or higher, a dry cough and shortness of breath.
Bencie encourages anyone who believes they might have contracted COVID-19 to first call the Manatee Health Line or the Florida Department of Health before visiting a hospital emergency room or health care provider.
The Manatee Health Line phone number is 941-242-6649 and is in operation from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. The Florida Department of Health COVID-19 call center in Tallahassee can be reached 24 hours a day, seven days a week at 866-779-6121.
Bencie encourages anyone who has traveled internationally or domestically to places with higher case counts, or those who have come in contact with someone diagnosed with coronavirus, to also call one of the health department phone numbers before going to an emergency room or doctor’s office.
Bencie said this allows health department personnel to interview the caller to help determine if they need to be tested. It also helps prevent a contagious person from walking into a doctor’s waiting room or an emergency room unannounced and unexpected.
Emergency declaration
During Monday’s emergency meeting, county commissioners declared a countywide state of emergency.
Commissioner Steve Jonsson said declaring a state of emergency gives the county a place in line if and when state and federal funds become available regarding the coronavirus outbreak.
“That’s one of the main reasons for a local state of emergency. It really is for tracking and financial purposes,” Sauer added.
No beach or business closings
Commissioner Betsy Benac asked if there were any plans to close the county beaches. Sauer and County Administrator Cheri Coryea said there were currently no plans to do so.
In response to questions from Benac and Commissioner Reggie Bellamy, Sauer said the county does not have the authority to close or dictate hours of operation to privately owned restaurants, bars and businesses. He said that direction would have to come from the state and Governor Ron DeSantis.
White House Task Force member Dr. Deborah Birx, center, asks for cooperation with coronavirus guidelines.
Federal guidelines announced
About an hour after the county meeting ended, the White House Coronavirus Task Force released a new set of federal guidelines that recommend people not gather in groups larger than 10 people for the next 15 days.
Task force member Dr. Deborah Birx stressed the importance of all Americans of all ages to follow these voluntary guidelines in order to help contain the spread of COVID-19.
ANNA MARIA – Mayor Dan Murphy expects the new Anna Maria City Pier to open in April, but he has not yet determined an exact opening date.
“It looks like in the April timeframe we’ll be opening the pier for fishing and sightseeing,” Murphy told the city commission on Thursday, March 12.
Murphy said Florida Power & Light completed its work on the pier that day. That work consisted of installing transformers and electrical connections needed to light the new pier and to power the new restaurant, bait shop and public restrooms at the pier’s T-end.
Murphy said he would provide a specific opening date once he completes an analysis of the remaining work that needs to be done.
Due to the lingering concerns and uncertainties associated with the coronavirus (COVID-19), Murphy said he and the commission will soon determine whether the city will host grand opening ceremonies for the pier as previously discussed.
Pier RFP deadlines
As of Sunday, no changes had been made to the existing schedule for interested restaurateurs to respond to the city’s request for proposals for a new pier tenant to lease the restaurant and bait shop buildings.
According to the city website, Wednesday, March 25 is still the last day to submit written questions about the city-owned spaces for lease. Wednesday, April 8 is still the deadline to submit the pier lease proposals scheduled to be opened inside the commission chambers at approximately 1 p.m. that day.
Murphy recently said he expects the new restaurant and bait shop to open during the fourth quarter of the current year or the first quarter of 2021.
