Bradenton Beach will herald the arrival of the 2023 sea turtle nesting season by honoring the woman who for years watched over endangered sea turtles from the island shores.
The city on May 1 will recognize Suzi Fox Day.
Bradenton Beach commissioners Jan. 6 approved a proclamation honoring Fox, the executive director of Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring for many years. Fox died Sept 30, 2022.
The proclamation designates May 1, 2023, as Suzi Fox Day, honoring her long-term commitment to the preservation and stewardship of Anna Maria Island’s sea turtle and shorebird populations.
Fox worked with hundreds of volunteers to educate residents, visitors, businesses, officials and law enforcement on protecting sea turtles and shorebirds.
Her interest in the island’s turtles began in 1990 after she found a turtle nest at Bayfront Park in Anna Maria.
She began volunteering for turtle watch and eventually became the nonprofit’s executive director.
Commissioner Ralph Cole motioned to approve the proclamation. Commissioner Jan Vosburgh seconded the motion, which passed unanimously.
— Robert Anderson