Anna Maria Island Sun December 22, 2021

- Named Best Florida Newspaper In Its Class -

VOL 22 No. 11

December 22, 2021

Piney Point deep well permit approved A permit for a deep well injection system opposed by five environmental groups has been approved by the state’s environmental agency.

BY CINDY LANE SUN STAFF WRITER | clane@amisun.com

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

PALMETTO – The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) has issued a permit for Manatee County to build a 3,300-foot-deep well to permanently store wastewater from the Piney Point phosphate plant.

The well, already staged for construction at 3105 Buckeye Road, will store treated phosphate processing water, according to Manatee County officials, who announced the Dec. 16 state approval in a press release.

The contaminated water is currently stored in ponds on top of phosphogypsum stacks, one of

Santa and his helpers brought some Christmas spirit to this year’s Christmas for Kids.

SEE PINEY POINT, PAGE 26

Chiles Group brings more to those with less

Lowering speed limit under review After months of talking about a golf cart/LSV path through Holmes Beach, commissioners are now considering a citywide speed limit change.

Children from the RCMA and Step Up Suncoast programs were invited to the holiday party.

BY JOE HENDRICKS

BY KRISTIN SWAIN

SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

SUN STAFF WRITER | kswain@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA – The Chiles Group’s 26th Annual Lawton Chiles Christmas for Kids Party brought holiday joy to 60 youngsters, many of whom were making their first visit to Anna Maria Island.

The annual Christmas celebration took place in and around the Sandbar Restaurant’s outdoor pavilion on Dec. 15 from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m.

The children and parents invited to this year’s party are affiliated with RCMA Palmetto and Step Up Suncoast’s Head Start and Early Head Start programs. The children enjoyed two bounce houses that were set up

INSIDE NEWS 4 OUTDOORS 20 CASTLES IN THE SAND 22 REAL ESTATE 22-25 RESTAURANTS 26-27 SPORTS 28 CROSSWORD 29

dish also prepared by the Sandbar’s kitchen staff.

After lunch, Santa arrived in a red, 1930s-era Ford Model A replica car that has long belonged to the family of Island Photography’s Dara Caudill, who photographed the event for the Chiles Group.

The party concluded with the

HOLMES BEACH – A new idea is before Holmes Beach city commissioners to help make streets safer for golf carts, low-speed vehicles, motor vehicles, bicyclists and everyone else – lowering the speed limit citywide to 25 mph.

In previous years, lowering the speed limit anywhere in the city has been met with concern from commissioners and residents because of a potential increase in time that it would take to travel along Holmes Beach’s main thoroughfares.

Now, with a moratorium in place to give commissioners time to work on regulations for LSV rental companies and a boom in the use of the vehicles by residents and visitors, setting a citywide speed

SEE CHILES, PAGE 8

SEE SPEED LIMIT, PAGE 25

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

Sandbar restaurant owner Ed Chiles warmed up Santa’s seat for him. on the beach, and some simply enjoyed playing in the beach sand. The festivities included face painting, craft making, photo ops with volunteers and staff members dressed as cartoon characters, Christmas music played by event DJ Chuck Caudill and a buffet lunch of chicken tenders, French fries, macaroni and cheese, salad, fruit and lemonade – and for the adults, the option of an additional vodka pasta

CHAMPAGNE

AME still COVID-free as county

dreams help fuel holiday celebrations.

Food & Wine. 21

cases rise. 3 AMI Moose Lodge brings Christmas to the kids. 4

Anna Maria Island, Florida

The Island’s award-winning weekly newspaper www.amisun.com

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941.778.1515 | 111 South Bay Blvd | Anna Maria Island, FL.

DECEMBER 22, 2021

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DECEMBER 22, 2021

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AME still COVID-free as county cases rise While AME remains free of COVID-19 cases, rising numbers in Manatee County are a concern.

BY JASON SCHAFFER SUN CORRESPONDENT | jschaffer@amisun.com

HOLMES BEACH - For more than two months, Anna Maria Elementary School has been free of student or staff cases of COVID-19. In Manatee County and elsewhere, however, numbers are rising as both the delta and omicron variants quickly spread.

In the past week, multiple national sporting events, including three NFL games, were postponed due to COVID, and many holiday events such as New York’s famous Rockettes show are canceling holiday performances.

Locally, most events are moving forward as scheduled, but that could change.

COVID numbers in Manatee County are up from a month ago, although not as much as some other cities and counties in America making national headlines. Cases increased 50% from 152 on Nov. 21 to 228 on Dec. 20. The data indicates the numbers are likely to climb higher.

The state of Florida still bans mask mandates and prohibits any event or business

from requiring proof of vaccinations. While this is not the norm in many states, there is no sign it will change in Florida anytime soon. It remains up to the individual to make their own decision whether or not they get a vaccination or wear a mask.

All Manatee County schools are following the governor’s orders and not requiring masks, though any student who wishes to wear one is encouraged to do so.

COVID-19 PROCEDURES IN MANATEE COUNTY SCHOOLS

• All students and employees who are sick or who have symptoms will be sent home until they are symptom-free.

MANATEE SCHOOLS COVID-19 CASES

MANATEE COUNTY COVID-19 CASES

Nov. 20 AME - 0 staff, 0 students Manatee County - 1 staff, 2 students Total since first day of school (AME) 0 staff, 13 students Total since first day of school (county) 375 staff, 2,580 students

Nov. 21 Cases - 152 % Positivity - 1.71% Deaths <10 % Eligible population vaccinated - 56.9% New hospital admissions - 8

Dec. 20 AME - 0 staff, 0 students Manatee County - 0 staff, 1 student Total since first day of school (AME) 0 staff, 13 students Total since first day of school (county) 382 staff, 2,620 students • Temperature checks will be taken daily for all employees and randomly for students.

• Reinforce and practice proper handwashing techniques among students and staff.

• Provide and encourage the use of hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol.

• Deep clean and disinfect schools and school buses daily, or in between uses as needed.

• Make every effort to social distance as

Dec. 20 Cases - 228 % Positivity - 2.69% Deaths <10 % Eligible population vaccinated - 61.3% New hospital admissions - 12 Source: Manatee County Schools, CDC much as possible in schools.

• District employees visiting schools, other than their own, must wear masks during the school day.

• Provide plastic shields in elementary classrooms and cafeterias where possible.

• All employees will answer COVID-related questions daily upon arriving at work.

• Limit non-essential visitors and volunteers to school campuses.

• Everyone eligible to be vaccinated is strongly encouraged to get vaccinated.

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ISLAND NEWS

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DECEMBER 22, 2021

AMI Moose Lodge celebrates Christmas

IN BRIEF

The lodge festivities included a children’s Christmas party and an ugly sweater contest for the adults.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

The channel and jetty that connect to Lake La Vista will be dredged next month.

Lake La Vista channel to be dredged Anna Maria has obtained the Army Corps of Engineers permits needed to dredge the jetty area and channel entrance that provides access to Lake La Vista. Mayor Dan Murphy said the dredging will begin around Jan. 12 and will last three to four weeks. There will be minimal interruption to the flow of boat and kayak traffic through the channel while the dredging occurs, he noted. The dredging will take place in the channel and jetty area that connects to Tampa Bay. Lake La Vista itself will not be dredged. Earlier this year, the mayor and city commission budgeted $250,000 for the dredging project. The city also seeks a state appropriation for a long-term solution that would alleviate the need to dredge the channel entrance and jetty area every two or three years.

Beach cleanup coming soon A Saturday, Jan. 8 date has been announced for The Center of Anna Maria Island’s next beach cleanup. Help ensure the beaches stay beautiful by volunteering to grab a trash bag and hit the beach. Volunteers will meet at The Center and walk to the Gulf to clean up from Magnolia to White Avenue. For information, call 941-7781908 or visit customerservice@centerami.com.

Movies in the Park returning The city of Anna Maria’s Movies in the Park series will return to City Pier Park on Tuesday, Dec. 28 at 6:30 p.m.

Starring Tom Hanks, “The Polar Express” will be the first movie screening of the season, followed by “A Dog’s Journey” on Tuesday, Jan. 4 and “A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood” on Tuesday, Jan. 11, with several more to follow as the weekly screenings continue. The movies are free and attendees are encouraged to bring their own lawn chairs, blankets, snacks and beverages.

Holiday waste collection schedule Waste Pro and Waste Management customers on Anna Maria Island have an additional reason to celebrate with the coming holidays – there are no changes to the yard waste, recycling and trash schedules due to Christmas or New Year’s Day holidays. With both holidays on Saturdays, when no residential pickups are scheduled, residential pickups will continue as normal for the two holiday weeks. Any commercial pickups normally scheduled for Saturday will take place on Friday. No collections are scheduled for Saturdays or Sundays.

BRADENTON BEACH – Anna Maria Island Moose Lodge #2188 welcomed Rudolph, Santa and other guests to its annual children’s Christmas party Saturday morning.

Joined by parents and grandparents, more than 60 children gathered inside the Moose Lodge to celebrate the Christmas holiday. At about 10:30 a.m., Officer Eric Hill, of the Bradenton Beach Police Department, delivered Santa Claus to the lodge’s beachfront door. Santa then received a warm holiday welcome as he entered the lodge and greeted the awaiting youngsters.

One by one, each child was called by name to visit with Santa and receive from him and his Moose Lodge helpers a wrapped gift selected especially for that child’s age group.

Lodge Administrator Byron Dalton and Senior Regent Joy Shames shared their thoughts on the day’s festivities.

“This is one of the things we do every year for our kids and members. The Women of the Moose are doing a great job and everybody’s having fun. The kids have paper and crayons and are making Christmas cards to send to our seniors at Moosehaven,” Dalton said.

Moosehaven is a retirement community in Orange Park, Florida that has served Moose members since 1922.

“We are having a lot of fun with the children’s Christmas party here at the Moose Lodge. We’ve got Santa, Rudolph, the elves and Tommy the Moose here. The Women of the Moose put this together, along with the lodge.

We’re happy to see so many kids. We have 62 kids signed up and we’re having a great day,” Shames said.

When Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer entered the room, the children and adults broke into an impromptu rendition of the famous Christmas song that tells Rudolph’s story.

New York residents Bridget and Michael Roorda spend a few months each year on Anna Maria Island and they brought their children, Amelia, William and MJ, to the Moose party.

“We’ve been coming for years. We’re almost snowbirds,” Michael said.

“We love it," Bridget added.

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

This youngster thoroughly enjoyed her visit with Santa and his helpers.

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

Lodge Administrator Byron Dalton recognized the efforts of these Moose volunteers.

Josh and Meredith Pridokas brought their daughter, Ellie, to the party.

“This is wonderful,” Meredith said.

“This is the first year Ellie is old enough to appreciate Santa and the decorating. She’s soaking it up,” Josh added.

ADULT ACTIVITIES

Regarding some of the adult activities taking place at the lodge, Shames said, “Tonight, we have our ugly sweater contest for the adults.”

The proceeds from the ugly sweater contest went to the Women of the Moose charity.

Dalton said the Queen of Hearts jackpot is currently at about $30,000 and the next weekly drawing takes place on Wednesday, Dec. 22.

“We’re about a third of the way through the deck,” Dalton said of the drawing that utilizes a deck of playing cards and eventually awards a cash jackpot to the lucky Moose member who draws the Queen of Hearts. Each week, one playing card is revealed and the longer it takes the find the Queen of Hearts, the larger the jackpot is.

Some of the Queen of Hearts proceeds help fund the lodge’s numerous charitable efforts and activities.

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DECEMBER 22, 2021

THE SUN

Van Ostenbridge to serve as county commission chair

City leaders to face off with county officials

BY KRISTIN SWAIN SUN STAFF WRITER | kswain@amisun.com

Kevin Van Ostenbridge will succeed Vanessa Baugh as the county commission chair.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

MANATEE COUNTY – District 3 Manatee County Commissioner Kevin Van Ostenbridge will chair the county commission in 2022.

Now in his second year as a commissioner, Van Ostenbridge will succeed District 1 Commissioner Vanessa Baugh as the new commission chair. Each year, the commission selects a different commissioner to serve as commission chair. The chair’s duties include running the commission meetings and assisting with the creation of the meeting agendas.

“It will be an honor to serve Manatee County as their chairman of the county commission,” Van Ostenbridge stated in the county

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MANATEE COUNTY | SUBMITTED

Kevin Van Ostenbridge’s peers selected him to serve as the next county commission chair. press release. “I want to thank my colleagues for their confidence in my leadership. I look forward to a productive year of hard work in the interest of our taxpayers. My expectations are that this will be a year filled with accountability, civility and ethics at all levels of our government.”

Although he and the other commissioners serve the entire county, Van Ostenbridge’s commission district in which he was elected

includes Anna Maria Island, the northern portion of Longboat Key and much of west Bradenton.

Commissioner James Satcher will serve as first vice-chairman of the board in 2022.

District 2 Commissioner Reggie Bellamy will again serve as chairman of the Manatee County Port Authority and District 4 Commissioner Misty Servia will continue to serve as the Tourist Development Council chair.

HOLMES BEACH – After months of back-andforth public disagreements, Holmes Beach city leaders and Manatee County commissioners are planning to sit down for a joint discussion on the future of the relationship between the two governments.

Holmes Beach Mayor Judy Titsworth said city leaders had received an invitation to a meeting with county commissioners from newly-appointed Manatee County Commission Chair Kevin Van Ostenbridge. While the invitation specified a Jan. 4 meeting date, Holmes Beach commissioners agreed they felt that was not enough notice for a meeting of such importance.

During their Dec. 14 meeting, Holmes Beach commissioners agreed to respond favorably to the invitation with the stipulation that it take place at a later, mutually beneficial date.

Titsworth suggested setting a February agenda deadline for the joint meeting with the proposal of a March meeting date, allowing for Holmes Beach and Manatee County commissioners to submit a range of potential meeting dates to arrive at one where the largest number of participants could attend. She said that while Manatee County commissioners may have prepared for the joint SEE MEETING, PAGE 23

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OPINION

The Anna Maria Island Sun newspaper 3909 East Bay Drive, Suite 210, Holmes Beach, FL, 34217 Phone: (941) 778-3986 email: news@amisun.com | ads@amisun.com | classifieds@amisun.com

Like us on our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/AnnaMariaIslandSun

DECEMBER 22, 2021

The Anna Maria Island Sun Staff Publishers Mike Field Maggie Field Editor/CEO Mike Field Layout Ricardo Fonseca Reporters Cindy Lane Joe Hendricks Kristin Swain Jason Schaffer Columnists Louise Bolger Outdoors Editor Rusty Chinnis Advertising director Shona Otto Ad assistant Pamela Lee Classified ads Bob Alexander Graphics Elaine Stroili Ricardo Fonseca Digital/Social Media Editor Cindy Lane Accounting John Reitz Leslie Ketchum Distribution Bob Alexander Tony McNulty Connor Field Contributors Tom Vaught Steve Borggren Monica Simpson

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Citizen of Year honored It was clearly a surprise and truly an honor to be awarded the 2021 Louie Strickland Citizen of the Year Award. I have been inspired to be active in Holmes Beach by those many people who come together to contribute to this special community. We are given amazing opportunities to volunteer locally at our Center, Island library, school, Historical Museum, churches and community-sponsored

special events, to name just a few. We are surrounded by neighborhoods that welcome opportunities to gather in celebration of each other, thank those who serve us and help those in need. We can reach out to local businesses that give consideration to residents and generously support local efforts. We have local avenues to make our voices heard and a local government that is receptive to our concerns. I maintain that our most meaningful impact comes when we keep involved with those nearest, respect all ideas and act collectively in

making a positive difference for each other and our natural environment when and how we are able. I see this happening in all kinds of ways by lots of people in this place that I proudly call home. A very heartfelt thank you for recognizing Mr. Strickland's legacy of embracing civic involvement and acknowledging Holmes Beach citizenship as any effort to keep our community safe, connected and relevant.

Deb Sneddon Holmes Beach

www.amisun.com

DECEMBER 22, 2021

ON THE AGENDA ANNA MARIA

10005 GULF DRIVE FOR INFORMATION, CALL 941-708-6130

Please visit www.cityofannamaria.com or contact city hall for more information.

Dec. 23, all day – City offices closed for Christmas holiday Dec. 24, all day – City offices closed for Christmas holiday Dec. 31, all day – City offices closed for New Year holiday Jan. 13, 2 p.m. – City Commission meeting

BRADENTON BEACH

107 GULF DRIVE N. FOR INFORMATION, CALL 941-778-1005

Please visit www.cityofbradentonbeach.com or contact city hall for more information.

Dec. 23, all day – City offices closed for Christmas holiday Dec. 24, all day – City offices closed for Christmas holiday Dec. 31, all day – City offices closed for New Year holiday Jan. 5, 9:30 a.m. – Community Redevelopment Agency meeting Jan. 5, 2 p.m. – Scenic WAVES meeting Jan. 6, 6 p.m. – City Commission meeting

HOLMES BEACH

5801 MARINA DRIVE FOR INFORMATION, CALL 941-708-5800

Please visit www.holmesbeachfl. org or contact city hall for more

information.

Dec. 23, all day – City offices closed for Christmas holiday Dec. 24, all day – City offices closed for Christmas holiday Dec. 31, all day – City offices closed for New Year holiday Jan. 5, 10 a.m. – Parks and Beautification meeting Jan. 11, 5 p.m. – City Commission meeting with work session to follow Jan. 12, 5 p.m. – Planning Commission meeting MARKYOUR CALENDAR

WEDNESDAY, DEC. 22

Beach market, Coquina Beach, 2650 Gulf Drive S., Bradenton Beach, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Ukulele Instruction for Beginners, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 1 p.m. Register online at manateelibrary.libcal. com/event/8315414 Christmas in the Garden, Longboat Island Chapel, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, 5-9 p.m.

THURSDAY, DEC. 23

RoserRobics, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, 9:30 a.m., no cost but donations welcome.

Thursdays in Paradise Stroll featuring local art, music and food, Bridge Street, Bradenton Beach, 5-8 p.m.

Christmas in the Garden, Longboat Island Chapel, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, 5-9 p.m.

SUNDAY, DEC. 26

Farm stand, Holmes Beach City Hall, 5801 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 8-10 a.m.

Beach market, Coquina Beach, 2650 Gulf Drive S., Bradenton Beach, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Rise and Shine Power Flow Yoga, Robinson Preserve Mosaic Nest, 840 Ninth Ave. N.W., Bradenton 10:30-11:45 a.m., $10 fee payable online. Bring your own yoga mat.

Register at parks.mymanatee. org/wbwsc/webtrac.wsc/search. html?primarycode=110006 or call 941-742-5923 ext. 6042 for more information.

Christmas in the Garden, Longboat Island Chapel, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, 5-9 p.m.

MONDAY, DEC. 27

Christmas in the Garden, Longboat Island Chapel, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, 5-9 p.m.

Music begins at 6 p.m.

TUESDAY, DEC. 28

Farmer’s market, City Pier Park, 103 N. Bay Blvd., Anna Maria, 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

RoserRobics, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, 9:30 a.m., no cost but donations are welcome.

Wonder Walk, Robinson Preserve, 840 Ninth Ave. N.W., Bradenton, 10 a.m. Reserve to coral.bass@ mymanatee.org.

THE SUN

Family story time, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m. Register online at manateelibrary.libcal.com/ event/8303026 Tech Help, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2-2:30 p.m. Register online manateelibrary.libcal.com/event/7996166 Christmas in the Garden, Longboat Island Chapel, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, 5-9 p.m.

WEDNESDAY, DEC. 29

Beach market, Coquina Beach, 2650 Gulf Drive S., Bradenton Beach, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Tortoise Talk, Robinson Preserve Valentine House, 1704 99th St. N.W., Bradenton, 10 a.m.

Ukulele Instruction for Beginners, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 1 p.m. Register online manateelibrary.libcal. com/event/8315415 Christmas in the Garden, Longboat Island Chapel, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, 5-9 p.m.

THURSDAY, DEC. 30

Seashell Shore Walk, Coquina Beach, 2650 Gulf Drive S., Bradenton Beach, 9 a.m.

RoserRobics, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, 9:30 a.m., no cost but donations welcome.

Seaside Quilters, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m. Register online

at manateelibrary.libcal.com/ event/7996431 Sunshine Stitchers knit and crochet, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2 p.m. Register online at manateelibrary.libcal.com/event/7996418 Thursdays in Paradise Stroll featuring local art, music and food, Bridge Street, Bradenton Beach, 5-8 p.m.

Christmas in the Garden, Longboat Island Chapel, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, 5-9 p.m.

FRIDAY, DEC. 31

New Year’s Eve Christmas in the Garden, Longboat Island Chapel, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, 5-9 p.m.

SATURDAY, JAN. 1

Happy New Year!

Robinson Runners, Robinson Preserve, 1704 99th St. N.W., Bradenton, 8 a.m.

Manatee Audubon Society Birding Tour, Perico Preserve 11700 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton, 8:30 a.m.

Saturday mornings at the NEST, Robinson Preserve Mosaic Nest, 840 Ninth Ave. N.W., Bradenton, 9 a.m. to noon. Face masks required.

Shamrock Shiver sponsored by Clancy’s Irish Pub, Cortez Beach between Fourth Street South and 12th Street South, noon. All proceeds benefit The Blessing Bags Project, Feeding Empty Little Tummies, Healthy Teens Coalition of Manatee County and Parenting Matters Charities.

A LOOK BACK WITH JEN ROGERS

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This year has been full of challenges, but these obstacles have also shone a light on the resiliency of the restaurant industry. It’s far from WKH ¿UVW WLPH LQ UHFHQW KLVWRU\ WKDW UHVWDXUDQW HPployees have found ways to come together in the face of adversity to help one another. Jen Rogers, Human Resources Director at The Chiles Group, KDV VHHQ WKH H൵HFWV RI WKHVH FKDOOHQJHV ¿UVWKDQG throughout her 27 years with the company. Below, she compares what she experienced in 2021 to past events and shares what she is most looking forward to in 2022.

Rogers joined The Chiles Group in 1994 as a server at The Beach House during college breaks. She quickly fell in love with the company and restaurant culture. After graduating from The University of Central Florida, Rogers returned to the area full time and transitioned from Operations into the Human Resources department.

From there, she was able to nurture her passion for the people who make the company so special.

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Since she started at The Chiles Group, Rogers has witnessed many major world events’ H൵HFWV RQ WKH KRVSLWDOLW\ VHFWRU WKH ¿QDQcial crisis of 2008, and the pandemic have all had tremendous impacts on society, the economy, and travel - with a direct connection to restaurants.

Rogers has discovered that she shines while navLJDWLQJ VWD൵ WKURXJK WKHVH XQFHUWDLQ WLPHV :KHQ

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asked how she manages it, she said, “sometimes it feels like a leap of faith into the unknown, but I remind myself we are all in this together!” The Chiles Group’s key to persevering through these GL൶FXOWLHV LV WKH IDPLO\ OLNH PHQWDOLW\ WKH FRPpany has maintained since 1979. Their dedication WR VXSSRUWLQJ VWD൵ DQG WKH FRPPXQLW\ PHDQV WKDW every employee’s well-being is considered when making important decisions in the wake of these FDWDVWURSKHV ³:H KDYH DQ H[WUHPHO\ JHQHURXV owner and continue to thrive by providing for our employees.” :KHQ DVNHG ZKDW WKH PRVW VLJQL¿FDQW UHcent challenge has been regarding the pandemic, 5RJHUV VDLG ³LW VHHPV PRVW LQGXVWULHV DUH VX൵HULQJ IURP VWD൶QJ VKRUWDJHV ULJKW QRZ DQG ZH¶UH QR GL൵HUHQW ´ $V H[SHUWV DUH KRSHIXO WKDW ZH have seen the worst of the pandemic, Rogers is RSWLPLVWLF WKHVH LQGXVWU\ ZLGH VWD൶QJ LVVXHV ZLOO also soon be behind us. Despite all of this year’s upheaval, Rogers has clung to the joy of welcoming returning guests back to the restaurants and people she loves. It’s what she’s most anticipating in the new year as well. “As a native, our area is unmatched in my eyes, and I’m looking forward to seeing all businesses boom in 2022!”

Pictured: Jen Rogers Content provided by: The Chiles Group

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THE SUN

DECEMBER 22, 2021

CHILES: Hosts Christmas Party FROM PAGE 1

youngsters being called up one by one to receive a gift bag from Santa and his helpers. Containing a new clothing outfit, a pair of shoes and a toy to open on Christmas, each gift bag was tailored specifically for that child.

Donations from the community helped fund the annual children’s party that honors Sandbar owner Ed Chiles’ late father, Lawton Chiles, who served as Florida’s governor from 1991-98, and his late mother, Rhea Chiles.

SPREADING HOLIDAY JOY

As the party got underway, Ed Chiles said, “It’s the Christmas season. It’s a time of year when you want to reach out and help folks and appreciate your community.

It’s a wonderful tradition for our staff members who volunteer their time, including shopping for and wrapping the presents.

Thanks to every single one of the staff members and volunteers that helped make this happen. It’s always been about reaching out to the community and helping the kids. And personally, this always gets me in the Christmas spirit.”

Chile’s wife, Tina Chiles, said, “It’s a wonderful celebration this time of year with very special families we look forward to hosting. It helps us remember the true meaning of Christmas.”

Josie Gracia is an early childhood specialist with RCMA Palmetto – the Manatee County affiliate of the Redlands Christian Migrant Association formed in southwest Florida in 1965.

“We’ve been doing this for a couple years now. The children and staff all look forward to this. It’s like a dream come true for most of the children. We serve low-income families and they don’t have the means to experience all this. For some, this is the first time they get to see the beach. It’s like a mini-Disney here for them, and the food is amazing. And to top it all off, they get to see Santa,” Gracia said.

Serving low-income families and the children and families of migrant workers, the RCMA Palmetto child development center serves 68 children of various ages, some of whom attended Wednesday’s party.

“It’s very holistic. We include child support services, family support services, health services, vision, hearing and developmental screenings. We have high school curriculum in place. We provide transportation for the families that live in more remote areas. The parent support program is very strong. We do training for the parents, parenting classes, support groups. It’s very comprehensive,” Gracia said.

“Those who are migrants face the challenge of leaving every year and going up north to work for part of the year and

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

Each child received a gift bag featuring items purchased specifically for them. then coming back. There’s always this transition, going back and forth, and it’s really hard traveling and leaving people behind. And for the parents, agricultural work is hard work, and we’ve been losing agricultural fields, so some of the families have to travel to remote areas to work and then come back every day. There’s also all the other risks involved with this kind of work. They’re exposed to chemicals and pesticides and they earn low wages. It’s not very pleasant, but they’re hardworking and they’re appreciative of the opportunity to work,” Gracia said.

“Due to COVID, it’s been harder to get volunteers. It’s nice to have people come and hold the babies, spend time with the children and read them stories. Donations are always welcome and they don’t have to be brand new items. Sometimes we get gently used items and toys. We have ladies from a community group that bring blankets that they make. There are many

different ways to support the programs.”

To assist RCMA, please call 941-7234563.

Step Up Suncoast’s Head Start and Early Head Start programs provide early childhood education and family engagement services focused on closing the achievement gap for children throughout Manatee County.

“Step Up Suncoast provides Head Start and early Head Start programs for Manatee County –from 8 weeks old into kindergarten,” said Jill Glass, Step Up Suncoast’s director of philanthropy.

Regarding the party, Glass said, “It’s a wonderful event that brings a lot of smiles to the organization and families who have been struggling more than ever in the past couple years. We appreciate more than ever the support the Chiles Group provides to us every year. We’re excited that they’re able to bring it back.”

Last year’s party was canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

“This gives the families the opportunities to come do something they wouldn’t otherwise have the opportunity to do. We have a lot of kids that have never been to the beach. They just don’t come out here.

It’s a nice opportunity to have fellowship with other friends and family engagement between the different families. The kids know each other, but the parents maybe don’t. It’s another opportunity of engagement for them,” Glass said.

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DECEMBER 22, 2021

City recognizes outstanding community service Holmes Beach city commissioners ended the calendar year on a festive note, presenting the city’s annual recognitions and awards, including Citizen of the Year, which went to Deb Sneddon.

BY KRISTIN SWAIN SUN STAFF WRITER | kswain@amisun.com

HOLMES BEACH – City commissioners gave community members and staff cause to celebrate with the presentation of their annual awards and community service recognitions.

During their final meeting of the calendar year, commissioners recognized community members who served on Holmes Beach committees and outstanding staff members. They also presented the third annual Louis Strickland Citizen of the Year Award.

Mayor Judy Titsworth was joined by City Clerk Stacey Johnston in recognizing former members of the city’s Parks and Beautification Committee for their years of service to the community. The recognitions included former members Susan Anderson, Carol Hatz, Allyson

KRISTIN SWAIN | SUN

Former Planning Commissioner Barbara Hines, right, is honored for her years of service to the city of Holmes Beach by Mayor Judy Titsworth, left, and City Clerk Stacey Johnston.

Gilles and Donna Ryan. None of the parks committee members were present for the presentation.

Titsworth also recognized former Planning Commissioner Barbara Hines for her years of service on that committee. Hines joined the planning commission as an alternate in 2012 before becoming a full member just a few weeks later in December 2012. She stepped down from the planning commission in August 2021, choosing to ask to not be reappointed to allow for someone

KRISTIN SWAIN | SUN

Holmes Beach resident Deb Sneddon, left, is surprised as she is given the Louis Strickland Citizen of the Year award during a Dec. 14 commission meeting.

else to have the opportunity to serve the city in that position.

“I cannot thank you enough,” Titsworth said to Hines, presenting her with a plaque commemorating her years of service.

Hines thanked city leaders for the acknowledgment of her service on the planning commission.

Titsworth presented Code Compliance Administrative Assistant Kim Charron with the 2021 Employee of the Year Award. In thanking Charron, Titsworth

KRISTIN SWAIN | SUN

Mayor Judy Titsworth awards Code Compliance Administrative Assistant Kim Charron, left, with the Holmes Beach Employee of the Year award.

said that she’s the first person to step up and help out wherever needed with any task, no matter what department. Charron came to the city of Holmes Beach in December 2020. The mayor was joined in recognizing Charron by Code Compliance Supervisor James Thomas, who thanked commissioners for allowing him to hire Charron.

“She’s a great employee,” he said of Charron. “She’s the best that we have.”

SEE RECOGNITIONS, PAGE 27

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DECEMBER 22, 2021

Toys for Tots donations still being accepted There’s still time to donate to Toys for Tots this holiday season. If you see a drop-off location that is still accepting donations, just leave new, unwrapped toys and the Marine Corps will pick up and deliver them to local children in need. The Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce will be taking donations until Dec. 21, so feel free to stop by and make a donation.

Shamrock Shiver looking to raise big money Get ready to get cold and wet for a good cause this year in the annual Shamrock Shiver Charity Plunge.

Sponsored by Clancy’s Irish Pub & Grill, participants will brave the chilly Gulf waters with sponsorships and donations from family, friends and local businesses. The Plunge will take place at noon on Jan. 1, 2022, between Fourth Street South and 12th Street South in Bradenton Beach.

Jump in the not-so-warm water to

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benefit The Blessing Bags Project, Feeding Empty Little Tummies, Healthy Teens Coalition of Manatee County and Parenting Matters Charities. The event will end with a postplunge party at Clancy’s, 6218 Cortez Road W. in Bradenton. For more information, call 941-794-2481.

MCAT adds beach loop Manatee County Area Transit’s free Beach ConneXion operates between Anna Maria Island and Bradenton from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on weekends and holidays from December through April. Passengers board at Manatee Beach in Holmes Beach and at the Manatee Avenue bus stop east of 75th Street West in Bradenton, with several stops along Manatee Avenue/State Road 64. Parking on the mainland is available at the Beachway Plaza in the 700 block of Manatee Avenue. The shuttle helps riders connect with the free Island trolley that operates seven days a week between Coquina Beach in Bradenton Beach and the Anna Maria City Pier in Anna Maria. For more information, visit mymanatee.org or call 941-748-4501.

JASON SCHAFFER | SUN

The Anna Maria Island Privateers pose in front of the good ship Skullywag with supplies donated to help The Humane Society of Manatee County shelter.

Privateers gather pet supplies for shelter The Anna Maria Island Privateers sailed their beloved ship, The Skullywag, to Petco at 6757 Manatee Ave. W. on Sunday for their “Stuff the Skullywag” event to collect supplies for The Humane Society of Manatee County shelter. Items collected at the event included cat and dog food, litter, treats

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DECEMBER 22, 2021

Holmes Beach to celebrate Juneteenth Holmes Beach commissioners voted unanimously in favor of adding an additional paid holiday to those offered to city staff in 2022.

Juneteenth, celebrated on June 19, will be the 13th paid holiday for city staff and will be a day that city offices are closed.

Mayor Judy Titsworth presented

the idea to city commissioners during a Dec. 14 meeting, stating that while Juneteenth is recognized as a federal holiday, it hasn’t been adopted yet by the state of Florida.

Titsworth added that she’d like to move forward with officially recognizing the holiday in Holmes

Beach, something that commissioners readily agreed to.

Juneteenth recognizes the day in 1865 when federal troops arrived in Galveston, Texas, two and a half years after the signing of the Emancipation Proclamation to ensure that all enslaved people were freed.

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The Renegades and their significant others posed for a group photo with one of this year’s recipient families.

JOE HENDRICKS | DC SUN

Renegades provide Christmas joy for two needy families Each year, the Renegades motorcycle club adopts two Christmas families.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

BRADENTON BEACH – The Renegades motorcycle club made its annual Christmas delivery to the Drift In in Bradenton Beach on Sunday.

As they’ve done in past years, the Renegades adopted two Christmas families again this year. At 4 p.m., a white pickup truck filled with gifts being delivered to one of the club’s

adopted Christmas families arrived old, with Herbie being the older. at the Drift In, accompanied by a “The boys are sleeping in caravan of motorcycles. playpens so we bought them both Renegades Vice President Chuck beds. We also bought them some Robinson explained who the gifts supplies they need - a basketball were for and why. hoop and LeapFrog LeapPads “These children are being (youth computers) to learn on. raised by their grandmother.

Everything that was on their list, The grandmother could not be they got,” Chuck said. here today because she had a Renegades member Tim, aka death in the family, so an aunt BRING IN ‘Chopstixxx,’ and his brother, THIS AD FOR‘Bradenton Dave,’ started the brought the boys,” Robinson said.

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Christmas-time It’s almost time for Christmas, as the Bridge Street clock tower announces hourly in Bradenton Beach.

CINDY LANE | SUN

DECEMBER 22, 2021

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DECEMBER 22, 2021

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Community rallies for Brian Haddix Anna Maria resident Brian Haddix is battling stage 4 lung cancer.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

CORTEZ – A fundraising benefit for longtime Anna Maria resident Brian “Hardcore” Haddix took place Sunday at Bunny & Pirates Bazaar in Cortez.

The benefit began at noon and went until at least 5 p.m. Proceeds from the benefit will assist Haddix as he battles stage 4 lung cancer, which metastasized from a previous bout with colon cancer. He’s scheduled to begin chemotherapy and radiation treatments soon.

The fundraiser included free food, a jam session, people sharing stories about Brian and dozens of Brian’s friends and acquaintances stopping by to see him.

Bradenton resident Rob McGrath initiated the fundraising efforts and Bunny & Pirates owners Elizabeth Shore and Jeffrey O’Connell gladly offered their establishment as the venue for the event.

The fundraising efforts included

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

Brian Haddix attended the benefit, accompanied by his dog, Roscoe, and his son, Elijah donations, raffles and a silent auction. Rose Lipke and Cindy Thompson helped secure the auction items and raffle prizes donated by many local businesses.

Haddix attended the benefit, accompanied by his son, Elijah Haddix. His dog, Roscoe, also attended.

“It’s wonderful to see how much love

there is in the community. I’m glad I could show up because all the treatments begin soon,” Haddix said.

When asked how he felt, he said, “Soso, the best I can given the situation.”

Thompson was pleased with the turnout and the number of donated items.

“We got more auction and raffle prizes than I thought we would,” she

said. “Everybody knows ‘Hardcore’ and wanted to help out. We have an excellent turnout, with a lot of food and a lot of people sharing memories.

It’s heartwarming to see people that used to hang out on the beach together coming out 25 years later when one of us needs help. That’s what this community’s all about.”

When the raffles began, Lipke thanked all the local businesses that donated to the cause.

“It’s close to the holidays and everybody’s got a lot of stuff to do, but I’m real pleased with the turnout. Brian’s happy and that’s all that matters,” she said a short while later.

Shore said, “I love Brian so much.

He’s one of those people who always has your back, no matter what. He’s much loved and he has a heart of gold.

I am so grateful that this is one of those communities that comes together when someone needs you, and they did not disappoint today.”

O’Connell said, “I’ve known Brian since we were kids. I have nothing but love for him. He’s good people.”

Benefit attendee Dawn Mathisen added, “I love this man.”

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DECEMBER 22, 2021

www.amisun.com

DECEMBER 22, 2021

Holiday lights, Island style Christmastime on Anna Maria Island is full of its own sub-tropical style, including a number of beautifully decorated home displays. There may not be any snow, but who doesn’t like all the splashes of color lighting up the palm trees?

PHOTOS BY JASON SCHAFFER

302 72nd St., Holmes Beach

6401 Marina Dr., Holmes Beach

602 Gladiolus St., Anna Maria

313 N. Bay Blvd., Anna Maria

114 Beach Ave., Anna Maria

266 Gladiolus St., Anna Maria

Somewhere in Holmes Beach.

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DECEMBER 22, 2021

DECEMBER 22, 2021

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OUTDOORS

DECEMBER 22, 2021

Against the wind Reel Time RUSTY CHINNIS

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“perfect” day on the water is hard to come by. Why? Because it just doesn’t happen that often.

Rain, clouds and extreme temperatures can make fishing challenging, but of all the weather conditions, the wind can be the most daunting.

The wind makes for an uncomfortable ride in a boat, tests an angler’s casting ability and has a way of just wearing on your constitution. On windy days, you’ll find most anglers huddled in an area that provides some protection. That might be the lee of an island, a canal or a pass where they can get some relief from the choppy water and poor visibility. Sometimes the conditions will shut the fishing down and discourage fishermen from even staying on the water. While avoiding the windy days might be an option for some anglers, others will have a limited window of opportunity and have to make the best of a “bad” situation. In truth, the wind can actually provide prospects that most anglers might miss.

Experience has shown me that fishing in the lee on windy days might be the opposite strategy to employ. This might seem counterintuitive since fishing in areas exposed to the full force of the wind is definitely less daunting. In reality, the wind and the choppy water it produces might actually concentrate baitfish and crustaceans, providing predators with an opportunity to set up an ambush. The wind might mean it’s hard to see the fish if you’re sight fishing, but it also makes them less spooky and less visible to the prey

RUSTY CHINNIS | SUN

Captain Rodney Smith braved a windy day and was rewarded with this nice trout. they’re after.

Recently I had the displeasure of fishing just such a day. The weather guessers had correctly predicted winds from 12-15 knots. While we might have chosen not to fish that day, it happened to be the only time my friends and I could find to get together.

We started out with the intention to fly fish but conditions (winds that actually gusted to 25 knots) soon made us glad we had stowed spin tackle under the gunnels. Wind doesn’t usually deter single-minded fly anglers, but even the most die-hard know when to say when. We worked the flats determinedly for close to an hour and only managed to catch one small trout before we finally made the switch to spinning tackle.

Casting jigs and top water plugs was a whole lot easier than attempting to fly fish, but the fish still didn’t respond to our new strategy. Moving from spot to spot we were determined to find some willing fish but even though

we saw a few we couldn’t buy a bite.

Fortunately, that changed late in the day when we targeted some deepwater flats that were fully exposed to the now howling wind. Using DOA jigs and the DOA Deadly Combo we began encountering some hungry trout. For some reason, a later afternoon shift in the tide had put them on the feed. In five or six drifts we caught and released some beautiful fish to 22 inches. This reminded me that if you’re determined enough and persist you can usually find some time of the day or tide when fish will feed. In this case, it turned what could have been a frustrating and futile day into a successful outing.

If you can hold out for better days to fish, you’re a lucky angler. Most fishermen don’t have that luxury. In any case, if you’re determined and use some counterintuitive logic, you have a good chance of turning a windy day into a successful outing, even against the wind.

Warm weather brings out snook, trout bite CAPTAIN DAVE WHITE

Just like the temperatures lately, fishing around the Island has been hot. It’s been unseasonably warm so far, with water temperatures still around 70 degrees. Normally, we’re fishing for sheepshead, black drum, redfish and pompano

inshore. But with the high temperatures we’re still targeting snook, redfish, trout, and gag grouper, primarily. We’re still finding sheepshead, but not getting the big ones quite yet.

Offshore, yellowtail snapper, mangrove snapper, gag grouper,

amberjack, African pompano and blackfin tuna are our primary focus. It looks like the temperature is going to drop a bit midweek, so the wintertime critters should start moving in more. Good luck and happy holidays!

DECEMBER 22, 2021

FOOD & WINE

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Champagne dreams Brian Mathae

French 75 Ingredients (1)

1 oz gin 1/2 oz fresh squeezed lemon juice 1/2 oz simple syrup 4 oz Champagne Lemon twist for garnish

HURRICANE HANKS

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Champagne toast is the traditional way to celebrate many events, but most notably the new year.

How did Champagne earn this prominent position?

It started centuries ago with European aristocrats enjoying the bubbly at all their parties. Wine was originally a religious beverage in France, but after the revolution it became more of a secular one. As Champagne grew in prominence, its use evolved. The “holy water” contained in a Champagne bottle replaced priests at events like the christening of a new ship. Champagne quickly became a status symbol that everyone wanted to be part of.

Between 1800 and 1850, Champagne soared in popularity. In a relatively short 50 years, production increased from around 300,000 bottles a year to 20 million bottles a year.

By law, Champagne is a sparkling wine made from grapes grown in the Champagne region of France. Initially, bubbles in wine were viewed as a defect of winemaking. The bubbles were most often found in wines from the Champagne region. The “sparkle,” or effervescence, results from the natural fermentation of residual sugars in the bottle.

Wine was often transported in wine barrels to England where it would be bottled and sold. It was discovered in England that due to the low tempera-

Directions

Shake gin, lemon juice, simple syrup and ice until well chilled. Strain into a Champagne glass. Top with Champagne and garnish with lemon twist.

tures during winter in the Champagne region of France, the fermentation process was prematurely halted. This left residual sugar and dormant yeast in the wine. When the wine was shipped and bottled in England, the fermentation process would start again when the weather warmed.

When the bubbles became desirable instead of a defect, they posed a danger. Deliberate sparkling wine production started before there was a suitable bottle to contain it. Cellar workers would have to wear heavy iron masks to prevent injury from exploding bottles. If even one exploded, there was often a chain reaction whereby cellars could easily lose over half their bottles.

Full sparkling wines have nearly twice the pressure of an automobile tire, so fortunately for us, modern bottles and cork stoppers are strong enough for our safety.

Whether you prefer Champagne Pro-

Apple Cider Mimosa Ingredients (4)

2 tbs granulated sugar 1 tbs ground cinnamon 1 cup apple cider 1 bottle sparkling wine Apple slices and cinnamon stick for garnish

Directions

On a small plate, mix sugar and cinnamon thoroughly. Wet the rim of the glass and dip in the mixture. Fill glass 1/4 full with apple cider and top off with sparkling wine. Add apple slices and cinnamon stick.

secco, or any of the other regionally or varietal named sparkling wines, don’t forget about using it in cocktail recipes. Here are a few crowd pleasers that are a delight to

enjoy all day long around the holidays.

Visit Hurricane Liquors or LBK Liquors and our staff will gladly help you find the right product for your celebrations!

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REAL ESTATE

DECEMBER 22, 2021

Are you a risk-taker?

aking a risk is part of life. Making decisions that have a longterm effect, like marriage, having children and getting a new job, are difficult and risky. Up until this past COVID year-and-a-half, buying a home involved the typical risks associated with the biggest purchase of most of our lives. We were told to proceed slowly, have professional inspections and choose a lender carefully. However, most, if not all, of what was typical has changed since March 2020.

Homebuyers are being forced to seize the moment as soon as a home that they are even remotely interested in buying comes on the market. According to the National Association of Realtors, home sales between July 2020 and June 2021 sat on the market for a median period of one week before going under contract.

Assuming it takes at least a couple of days to get into contract, the time frame is reduced to about 5 days or less.

Castles in the Sand LOUISE BOLGER The market is moving so fast that buyers are waiving their rights to terminate a contract because of unfavorable inspection and even a low appraisal.

This is the exact kind of risk we were warned to never take when buying a home. Long gone are the days of reflection after touring a home and figuring out the placement of your furniture, measuring for window treatments and calculating future renovations, which, of course, you can’t afford anymore since you’re paying top dollar.

The one good thing is that buyers can now virtually tour homes online, which can help them feel their risk is

somewhat mitigated. In addition, house shopping during the holidays frequently is a buying asset since the competition from other buyers is somewhat reduced.

The flip side of this is that after the holidays, the pent-up demand will rear its ugly head, making the competition even worse. You have to pick your poison and your level of risk.

Nevertheless, there are very practical and financial reasons to own a home.

Owning a home goes back to our founding fathers, who linked property ownership to security and happiness, which endures today as the cornerstone of the American Dream. A home provides emotional and financial stability and historically, with a few exceptions, is the most dependable way for middle-class Americans to achieve wealth through their home’s equity. And the family memories created in a special home will last a lifetime, especially this time of year.

Navigating your risk tolerance, especially during these turbulent times, will be one of the most challenging decisions you will make in your life. Risk can be a good thing, but crossing over to irrational is a bad thing - figuring out the difference is the goal.

I’ll leave you with this poem celebrating a new home I first remember hearing in the iconic holiday movie, “It’s A Wonderful Life.” I included it in my Christmas column two years ago and boy oh boy, do we need to read it again this year. Good wishes for a happy and healthy holiday season.

BREAD: May those in your home never go hungry.

WINE: May you always have joy and never go thirsty.

SALT: May there always be flavor and spices in your life.

HONEY: May you always enjoy the sweetness of life.

OLIVE OIL: May you be blessed with health and well-being.

www.amisun.com

DECEMBER 22, 2021

MEETING: City leaders to face off with county officials FROM PAGE 5

meeting in advance of giving the invitation, Holmes Beach commissioners need more time to discuss what they would like to talk about with county officials and what their priorities are for the relationship going forward before attending the meeting. The Dec. 14 meeting was the final meeting of the Holmes Beach commission scheduled for 2020, with their next meeting not occurring until Jan. 11, after the proposed meeting date from the county.

To prepare for the joint meeting, commissioners agreed to send their concerns to Titsworth to be discussed at a future Holmes Beach meeting.

BEACH BEAT BRADENTON BEACH

12/10, 3:57 p.m., burglary to unoccupied structure, 114 12th St. N. Upon returning home from a trip, the victims noticed their carport was covered by a blanket. The door was nailed shut by the victims before leaving and the front door was dead bolted. When the victims opened the front door, a suspect ran out and down the street. As he was trying to flee in another suspect’s car, an officer arrived on the scene. The two suspects admitted to being in the house for two weeks and had taken jewelry and other items from the owners. Both suspects were arrested.

12/14, 3. p.m., theft, no address given.

Victim called the police station to

HOLMES BEACH: 5201 Gulf Drive • ELLENTON: 945 25th Drive East, Suite 10

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report some checks he had ordered had not arrived and he suspected they had been stolen. The victim said his bank called to report someone had tried to cash a $500 check of his. He advised the bank not to cash it, as well as another check a male suspect attempted to cash.

Both checks appeared to be from the missing box. The victim told police he suspected his daughter of taking the checks because she has a case pending currently for the same offense. There is currently not enough evidence to move forward with the case, which is closed until further suspects or information becomes available.

HOLMES BEACH

12/9, 10:53 a.m. Marchman Act, 3200 East Bay Drive. Police were called to The Dollar Tree in reference to a disturbance. There was an individual running in and out of the store

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shouting, “Someone put meth in my drink.” The officer said the man was sweating profusely and shaking. The subject said that after being sober for 50 days, he had taken some meth the day before. The only contraband found on the subject was a very small amount of a green leafy substance. Police transported the subject to Centerstone for substance abuse and filed Marchman Act paperwork.

12/11, 10:39 a.m., information, 6504 Gulf Drive. The officer was dispatched to White Sands Beach Resort in reference to a stolen bicycle.

The victim said his bicycle had been stolen the day before around 10 p.m. Employees said they had captured the theft on security cameras.

The cameras showed a man take the bike around 4:55 a.m. The case remains under investigation.

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DECEMBER 22, 2021

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DECEMBER 22, 2021

OBITUARIES Doyal Wallace Raburn Doyal Wallace Raburn, a long-time resident of Anna Maria Island, died on Sept. 21, 2021.

Born in Missouri on March 7, 1935, Raburn’s family moved to Oneco when he was a boy, where he once picked a whole field of lettuce to earn a few dollars to go to the fair. Upon graduating from Manatee High School, he immediately joined the U.S. Air Force and was stationed in Germany for four years.

After his discharge, he opened a beatnik coffee house in Oneco that was regularly raided by police re-

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sponding to neighbors’ complaints about imagined “shady” activities.

Traveling musicians hitchhiking around the country would stop to play there at night, doing chores during the day in exchange for a room to stay for a week.

Raburn was always interested in the theater. When off duty in Germany he would perform in plays with a traveling group of thespians.

He was also in the Manatee Players and the Island Players in Anna Maria, where he met his future wife and fellow actor, Becky. They moved to Anna Maria Island around 1965, where they met good friends, Jim Zerby, the former mayor of Holmes Beach, and his wife, Barb Zerby.

The Raburns were married in 1966 at Gloria Dei Lutheran Church in Holmes Beach and raised two

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children, Kim Raburn Ibasfalean and Doyal Raburn II. Raburn worked at the Manatee County Health Department, then the Bradenton Beach Post Office for 26 years. He was also an accountant/ bookkeeper for 20 years, and served on the Holmes Beach City Council with Mayor Zerby in 1975.

Raburn was predeceased by his wife of 49 years, Becky; his mother, Ina; and father, Shelley.

Raburn is survived by his son, Doyal Raburn II (Sandy); daughter, Kim Ibasfalean (Mark); grandsons Michael Ibasfalean and Matthew Ibasfalean; great-grandson Gabriel Ibasfalean; sister, Debbie Kleckner, of Bradenton; and brother, Jim Raburn (Jan), of Bradenton.

Services will be announced at a later time.

SPEED LIMIT: Lower limit under review FROM PAGE 1

limit is being strongly considered with the support of Chief Bill Tokajer and City Engineer Sage Kamiya.

For the safety of golf cart and LSV users, commissioners have been considering lowering the speed limit along one stretch of Gulf Drive in the A-1 district from 35 mph to 25 mph and pushing the limited speed vehicles into more residential neighborhoods and off Palm/Marina Drive. During a Dec. 14 work session, Kamiya proposed a different solution – lowering the speed limit citywide to 25 mph or less.

In a Dec. 20 talk with The Sun, Tokajer said he supports lowering the speed limit citywide for several reasons. First, it would eliminate the need to have a golf cart/LSV trail through Holmes Beach that would push more of the vehicles into residential neigh-

borhoods, where the speed limit is already 25 mph.

He said by setting a 25 mph citywide speed limit, the need to educate visitors on the city’s LSV speed regulations and what streets they can drive the vehicles on would be eliminated because they could be driven on any city street other than Manatee Avenue and East Bay Drive. Those speed limits will remain 35 mph for the foreseeable future. Those two streets also are state roads and regulated by the Florida Department of Transportation, which has stated in memos to the city that golf carts and LSVs are not permitted to be operated on the two state roads.

In Holmes Beach there are only a few city-controlled areas where the speed limit is 35 mph – about three blocks in front of Anna Maria Elemen-

tary School on Gulf Drive, 10 blocks along Palm Drive and about eight blocks on Gulf Drive.

During his presentation to commissioners, Kamiya said he drove three times through the city’s various 35 mph corridors to determine what the average time savings would be at 35 mph versus 25 mph. From White Avenue to 27th Street along Gulf/Marina Drive, he determined the difference in travel time averaged 58 seconds. From White Avenue to Gulf Drive along Marina Drive, he determined the average difference in travel time was only 28 seconds.

Tokajer said the proposed citywide speed limit would be less confusing for motorists and golf cart/LSV users. He added it would also reduce SEE SPEED LIMIT, PAGE 26

26

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THE SUN

DECEMBER 22, 2021

PINEY POINT: Deep well permit approved FROM PAGE 1

which is structurally unsound.

The potential for the stack’s collapse and the potential flooding of area homes and businesses led FDEP to approve the dumping of 215 million gallons of untreated wastewater into Tampa Bay in March and April. The contaminated water spread throughout Tampa Bay and Sarasota Bay, transporting nitrogen and phosphorus that spurred a red tide bloom lasting from April to November, causing fish kills and respiratory irritation.

When the water is removed from the stacks and injected into the well, the stacks are expected to be re-lined, capped and topped with soil and sod, according to the press release.

“This project is one critical element of the necessary water disposal that will enable the ultimate closure of the Piney Point facility once and for all, eliminating the threat from this

site to the environment and the community permanently,” according to the press release.

The county applied in April for the permit to build both a storage well and a test well of up to 950 feet deep to monitor drinking water; the permit application states that drinking water in the Floridan aquifer at the site is located about 900 feet underground. The county’s application to build both wells meets all applicable regulations for the protection of groundwater and the environment, according to an FDEP press release, which noted that its review included more than 7,000 public comments.

OPPOSITION PERSISTS

Among those opposed are five environmental organizations that notified the county on Sept. 30 that they intend to sue the county over the plan.

The Center for Biological Diversity, Tampa Bay Water-

keeper, Suncoast Waterkeeper, ManaSota-88 and our Children’s Earth Foundation have not yet filed the lawsuit.

“However, if we are able to prove the wastewater to be injected is hazardous, we will likely revisit the deep well injection permit,” said Glenn Compton, chairman of ManaSota-88 Inc. “Whether we can prove the wastewater is hazardous or not will depend on the courts allowing us to get onsite and take samples. Thus far, we do not have the court’s approval to go on-site to sample.”

The groups previously sued Piney Point owner HRK Holdings LLC, Gov. Ron DeSantis, FDEP Secretary Shawn Hamilton and the Manatee County Port Authority in June over the wastewater dumping earlier this year. A hearing is scheduled on Jan. 26, 2022, in the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Florida in Tampa on motions to dismiss

SPEED LIMIT: Lower limit under review FROM PAGE 25

sign pollution in the city, eliminating the need for signs pointing to golf cart/LSV-friendly streets and allowing for many of the speed limit signs already in the city to be removed.

For Holmes Beach police officers, the change to a citywide speed limit would allow them to worry more about enforcing safety regulations such as the occupancy of LSVs and golf carts and the city’s seat belt regula-

tions, rather than being concerned about which speed zone the vehicles are being operated in.

The discussion will continue in January at an upcoming commission work session.

MANATEE COUNTY/BILL LOGAN | SUBMITTED

The construction site is staged Dec. 15 for a deep well injection system to permanently store Piney Point phosphate wastewater. The state approved the county’s permit request on Dec. 16. the complaints against the four defendants, who have asked the court for an extension of time at least until Feb. 4, 2022.

HRK defaulted in a separate lawsuit filed by FDEP in August asking the 12th Judicial Circuit Court in Manatee County for injunctive relief to prevent any more discharges of wastewater from Piney Point, and claiming that HRK failed to safely operate the gyp stacks to protect surface and groundwater.

HRK has been in receivership since August; it also is in bankruptcy and is the subject of a repossession.

FAST-TRACKED PERMIT

The April permit request

by Manatee County was approved in draft form on Sept.

1 by FDEP, which completed its review by Nov. 24, issuing the permit on Dec. 16, when county officials announced in a press release that “Crews are

already working to prepare for the drilling of the deep well,” expected to be completed by late 2022.

“We will proceed expeditiously to see this fully operational as soon as possible,” County Administrator Dr. Scott Hopes said in the press release.

“Emergency funding from the state of Florida is helping pay for the fast-tracked plans, with millions of dollars earmarked for the cleanup and closure,” according to the press release.

Six other deep-well injection sites exist in Manatee County - one operated privately, one operated by the city of Bradenton and four operated by Manatee County.

“This is a proven technology,” county Utilities Director Mike Gore said in a press release.

“It’s been a tried and true method to safely dispose of effluent for over three decades.”

DECEMBER 22, 2021

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27

RECOGNITION: City recognizes outstanding community service FROM PAGE 10

In other recognitions, Titsworth awarded the city’s Community Partnership Award to the Hagen Family Foundation for their ongoing support of the city, particularly in providing funding for city parks and other public spaces. In 2021, the foundation provided $56,000 to build dugouts at the city field ball field - they are currently under construction by public works staff - and to purchase exercise equipment for a walking trail. The trail, planned for installation at the city field complex located adjacent to Holmes Beach City Hall, is currently in the design phase.

The final award of the evening was the third annual Louis Strickland Citizen of the Year Award, which is given to an individual for outstanding community service. This year’s award was given to Deb Sneddon, who was surprised by the honor.

Sneddon is a six-year resident of Holmes Beach who coordinates community volunteer opportunities and events with her neighbors, ranging from providing Valentine’s Day cards for area first responders and gift baskets to thanking veterans with a celebratory dance party and gathering $2,500 at a Halloween fundraiser for Hope Family Services and other efforts to better the community.

“I cannot thank you enough. You are so deserving of this award,” Titsworth said to Sneddon, presenting her with the award.

“It’s a pleasure to live here and it’s a pleasure to be around people who are ready to step up and support this community and their neighbors in a way that is really unlike any other place that I’ve been. This really goes out to everybody because everybody is ready to do that,” Sneddon said, thanking city leaders for the award.

28

THE SUN

SPORTS

DECEMBER 22, 2021

Sato Real Estate wins Hayward Cup again

BY MONICA SIMPSON SPECIAL TO THE SUN

ANNA MARIA - The adult coed soccer season started on Oct. 7, with team Sato Real Estate playing the first game of the night against team Sandbar. On paper, the Sato squad looked formidable with the likes of Danny Anderson and Josh Sato topping the list as dominant players.

Ryan Hogan, Hogan’s fiancée, Amy Ivin, Greg Ross and Ben Sato provide consistency and solid play to the team. Add in the powerhouse that is Will Kretzmann and the team was predicted to undoubtedly have a winning season.

Teammates Thomas Mangotic, Shawn Markham and Hugo Santos all but guaranteed the championship starting in game 1 of the season.

Going into the final game of the season, The Gitt Team appeared to stand a fighting chance against Sato Real Estate.

The underdogs needed a full squad to pull off the big win, and it just was not in the cards.

The Gitt Team started the most important game of the season without their goalkeeper and key field players.

Taking advantage of the underpowered opponent, Sato Real Estate put up three points in the first 10 minutes of the game. Anderson, Kretzmann and Markham scored, with as-

MONICA SIMPSON | SUN

Sato Real Estate clean sweeps the adult soccer season, as the undefeated Hayward Cup champions. sists by Ivin and J. Sato.

Kretzmann scored his second of three goals in the game with 10:50 left in the first half of play, advancing the score to 4-0.

Anderson took a shot near The Gitt Team goal, inadvertently hitting a teammate. Mangotic attempted to score with a

header, followed by a Markham strike between the legs of The Gitt Team keeper with less than 28 minutes left to play in the game.

With the score 4-0, Keith Mahoney took a long shot near midfield that landed just left of the post.

Sato Real Estate scored its fifth goal of the night before the close of the half. Leaving the field with a 5-0 deficit, The Gitt Team hit the sideline to talk strategy.

Starting the final 22 minutes of play with good energy, Tim Hurst nearly scored for The Gitt

Team.

Second-half scoring for Sato Real Estate started with the sixth goal of the night and a hefty lead for the top-ranked team.

With the much-needed players on the field, The Gitt Team continued to work hard, looking for its first goal.

Gitt Team goalies Alex Monzon, Tim Hurst and Daniel Hampton finished the game with nine total saves, including one at the 33rd minute of the championship game.

Before the final whistle, Sato Real Estate scored three more goals, finishing out the game with the score 9-0. Kretzmann got his hat trick in the second half of play, with additional goals by both Anderson and Markham.

Ivin finished the game with two goals, showing why she is one of the most sought-after players in the league.

Will the dominance of team Sato Real Estate continue into the next season or will the Paul “Ace” Hayward Cup winners find themselves on new teams the next time The Center pitch sees adult soccer action? Let the draft room drama begin.

SUN SCOREBOARD THURSDAY, DEC. 16 ADULT CO-ED SOCCER – CHAMPIONSHIP GAME The Gitt Team Sato Real Estate

0 9

DECEMBER 22, 2021

FUN IN THE SUN

Across 1 LBJ's vice president 4 Sponsor's tube spot 8 Dracula stabber 13 Tic-tac-toe winner 14 Glow 15 One-on-one teacher 16 Fifth scale note 17 *A total failure "goes over like" one 19 Arena overhead view provider 21 Cowpoke's "okay" 22 Tattoo artist's array 23 Stares open-mouthed 25 Violent storm 27 Eaten away by rust, say 30 More, in Mexico 31 Once more 32 Weather guy Al 34 __ and cheese 37 Smooth-tongued 38 Bird-related ... four of

Answers to 12-15-21 Crossword Puzzle.

them have landed at the ends of the answers to starred clues 39 April 1 "honoree" 40 Slim fish often smoked 41 Itty-bitty 42 Joltless java brand 43 Tips container 44 Leather bookbinding material 46 Type of pub named for its unglamorous appearance 50 Blind pieces 51 Greek goddess of discord 52 Greek T 54 Financial word before year or policy 57 *Hotel chain with a geographical name 60 Beer named for Washington's capital, briefly

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29

61 Prefix with national 62 Covers with asphalt 63 Was victorious 64 Wet-eyed 65 Roe source 66 __ Luthor, Superman nemesis Down 1 Bulky "Bonanza" brother 2 "Peter Pan" captain 3 *Last Supper cup 4 Focused on a subject, as a crossword 5 By way of 6 Artist Warhol 7 First appearance 8 Cards, in box scores 9 "Tiptoe Through the __" 10 Make things right 11 Goofballs 12 Dadaist Max 14 Apply carelessly 18 Theoretical missing links 20 West Indies native 24 Dish up, as a dish 26 St. Patrick's mo.

27 Zoo enclosure 28 Look at creepily 29 Washing, as the dishes 33 Bout-ending blows 34 *Monastic hood 35 Golfer Isao 36 Scottish family 38 Fizz up, as water

39 Protests by not eating 41 Saloon bill 42 Oil leak blemishes 43 Court clown 45 Director Hitchcock 46 Kind of bank card

47 Goodnight woman of song 48 Panoramic view 49 Carpenter's files 53 Home of the Jazz 55 Natural burn balm

56 Bobcat, e.g.

58 Dryly humorous 59 Little __, singer of the #1 hit "The Loco-Motion"

30

THE SUN

CLASSIFIED

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DECEMBER 22, 2021

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BUSINESS & SERVICE DIRECTORY HOME IMPROVEMENT

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Call today to place your ad: 941-778-3986 PAINTING

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DECEMBER 22, 2021

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