The Islander Newspaper E-Edition: Wednesday, Dec. 13, 2023

Happy Holidays!

VOLUME 32, NO. 8

DEC. 13, 2023 Free

the Best news on anna maria island Since 1992 Astheworldterns 6 ami meets 1st consolidation study deadline. 2 am seeks citizen honor nominees. 2 tourist tax collection drops. 3

Q&A 121323 3 Meetings 4 Opinions 6

10-20 YEARS AGO

People wave to members of the anna maria island Privateers Dec. 9 aboard the Skullywag, as they lead the annual christmas Parade on marina Drive in Holmes Beach. the parade began at coquina Beach in Bradenton Beach and traveled north to Pine avenue in anna maria before returning to Holmes Beach for the children’s Party with Santa. islander Photo: ryan Paice

islander.org

Privateers lead Christmas parade across AMI

Looking back. 7

More inside …

Save the date. 10-11

Happenings What’s up on ami?

11-12

School choice window opens. 13

Gathering. 14

Obituaries 14-15 GoodDeeds 16 Milestones 16 cortez cheer. 17

Streetlife 18

Braden, 6, above, puts eyes on Santa claus Dec. 9 at christmas in cortez as ellery-mae russell, 6, right, blushes on Santa’s lap at a florida maritime museum event. islander Photos: robert anderson

Island loses man of great vision

Gene Aubry, 87, died Dec. 9.

The island lost a man known as an “everyman” ... a renaissance man who excelled in many paths in his life, but none get in the game. 19 so much as friendship and community serSports news. 20 vice.

He was an architect, Winter angling. 21 artist and musician, a city servant and a family man.

HB seeks volunteer gardeners. 22 Many came to know Gene Aubry after he moved puzzle. 22 to Holmes Beach in 1985, aubry and later to Anna Maria, and quickly integrated into the community.

Save the manatees. 23 He left his mark on AMI in the homes he designed, the vision he imprinted, the CLASSIFIEDS. 24-25 music that delighted us and the gifts of art and wisdom he imparted.

Isl Biz: 26 BB puts tram into park.

He had many friends and touched many lives, but none so much as family and his tribute to Queen wows partner in recent years, Sandy Rich. audience. 27 There will be a private family service.

More on Mr. Aubry’s life is published find the this week on page 15 and online at islander. islander org, including a tribute by Islander publisher archive dating to 1992 at ufdc.ufl. Bonner Joy, published when he was named edu.

2013 Islander of the Year.

NYT

Santa claus confronts the grinch Dec. 8 at city Pier Park in anna maria, where the grinch stole Santa’s throne. islander Photo: ryan Paice

Ferry launch delayed to 2024 Manatee County’s Gulf Islands Ferry is hung up at the dock.

The Islander learned the launch of the service was delayed Dec. 7 in a community post on Facebook and confirmed the news on the GIF website.

The service was set to get underway Dec. 8 but its start date was pushed to Jan. 5, 2024, according to a notice at gulfcoast-

Passengers mingle nov. 20 on a preview ride on the Downtown Duchess. islander Photo: ryan Paice

watertaxi.com.

The notice states: “Thank you for your patience and understanding as we are still in the final approval stages to begin the ferry service.”

The ferry service is managed by the Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau and operated by Clearwater-based Gulf Coast Water Taxi.

Plans call for two 50-foot open-air catamarans, each able to carry 49 passengers, to loop from the Riverwalk day dock in downtown Bradenton to the Anna Maria City Pier and the Historic Bridge Street Pier in Bradenton Beach. The service is scheduled to run 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Friday-Sunday.

BACVB executive director Elliott Falcione did not respond to a Dec. 8 call from The Islander about the delay.

The GIF website offered no information regarding fare refunds and there is no published phone contact for GIF or Gulf Coast Water Taxi.

— ryan Paice

Page 2 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Dec. 13, 2023 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

2 of 3 island governments meet 1st OPPAGA deadline By ryan Paice islander reporter

The first step in the state-ordered study into island consolidation has been completed.

Anna Maria Mayor Dan Murphy said Dec. 7 that the city was set to meet the Florida Office of Program Policy Analysis and Government Accountability’s Dec. 8 deadline for responding to its information request.

OPPAGA is a research arm of the Florida Legislature that supports lawmakers by providing data, research and analysis that assist budget and policy deliberations.

State Rep. Will Robinson Jr., R-Bradenton, got approval to commission an OPPAGA study on the island’s governing structure at a January legislative delegation meeting.

Robinson questioned the number of governments needed on the island and proposed OPPAGA present options for consolidation to the delegation ahead of the state’s 2024 legislative session.

However, Robinson gave false information at a local meeting regarding residents versus rentals on the island. The West Manatee Fire Rescue District, in its task for rental inspections, provided contradicting information to that given by Robinson.

The state moved forward with the study as OPPAGA sent information requests in mid-November to the three island cities and set a Dec. 8 deadline for the city responses.

The state asked 15 questions, including eight pertaining to existing services, five about municipal structure and consolidation of services, as well as two questions on government consolidation.

Many of the questions ask the city to provide information and documentation for the past five fiscal years, running from fiscal 2018-19 to 2022-23.

Holmes Beach Mayor Judy Titsworth wrote in Dec. 8 text messages to The Islander that she also would meet OPPAGA’s deadline — but not without disrupting staff’s daily responsibilities.

“We are set to make deadline, but had to put a lot of our daily work aside in order to meet it,” Titsworth wrote. “I commend the staff for working so diligently in getting this done. … It was a tremendous effort by all department heads and their staff.”

Murphy also praised the efforts of city clerk LeAnne Addy, who he said completed much of the work related to the information request. He said he believed the people at OPPAGA “are going to be impressed.”

Bradenton Beach Mayor John Chappie did not respond to a Dec. 8 call from The Islander and it is not known at press time whether the city complied with OPPAGA.

anna maria mayor Dan murphy speaks at a Dec. 7 meeting about the city’s efforts to comply with the florida office of Program Policy analysis and government accountability’s Dec. 8 deadline to provide information for a state study into island consolidation. islander Photo: ryan Paice

Anna Maria seeks Citizen of the Year nominations By ryan Paice islander reporter

Thanksgiving has passed but it’s never too late to show thanks to those who deserve it.

Anna Maria residents can show thanks season by nominating candidates they feel are worthy of the city’s annual Distinguished Citizen of the Year.

Mayor Dan Murphy announced Dec. 7 that the city is accepting nominations for the award, which celebrates a resident, business or organization’s contributions to the community over the past year.

Last year’s award was given to two islanders: • Former executive director of the Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring Suzi Fox, who died in September 2022 after leading AMITW for about 30 years.

• Former Anna Maria Commissioner Carol Carter, who was elected to the commission in 2013 and appointed chairperson in 2019, having served until resigning in 2022 to move closer to family in Sarasota County.

Murphy said there was no “strict timeline” for the process but he wanted to come back before the city commission in January to establish a citizen recognition committee to review nominations and select a winner.

The commission will meet at 6 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 11, 2024, at city hall, 10005 Gulf Drive.

Nominations can be submitted by contacting the city clerk’s office at 941-708-6130, ext. 121, or emailing amclerk@cityofannamaria.com.

The city also will provide nomination forms on its website, cityofannamaria.com, according to Murphy.

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Dec. 13, 2023 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 3 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Manatee County’s October tourist tax dips 17 percent

Bradenton generated $132,061 or 8.91%.

Longboat Key generated $112,197 or 7.57%.

Palmetto generated $3,207 or 0.22%.

The collection fee or commission on the tax is 3%, so the net collection in October was $1,437,863.

The resort tax revenues must be used to boost and develop tourism. In Manatee, the funding goes to the October tourist tax collections Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau, the october 2019: $807,356 Bradenton Area Convention Center, the Gulf Island october 2020: $954,682 Ferry and other tourism-related entities such as Realoctober 2021: $1,437,374 ize Bradenton and the Pittsburgh Pirates, and tourism october 2022: $1,792,372 projects, including beach renourishment. october 2023: $1,482,123 The advisory tourist development council recomSource: manatee county tax collector mends how to spend the money to the county commisBeach topped collections on Anna Maria Island, gen- sion.

November resort tax data will be released in early erating $408,794 — about 27.58% of the total.

Anna Maria accounted for about 9.92% of total January.

A 2024 calendar with the next TDC meeting was collections, bringing in $146,979, and Bradenton not posted as of Islander press time Dec. 11.

Beach heads in beds generated $69,474 or 4.69%.

Some other numbers for October: • Unincorporated Manatee County generated $609,618 or 41.13%.

By Lisa neff

By Lisa neff islander editor

Boo! October’s tourist tax dollars — the first collections reported for the 2023-24 fiscal year — registered a 17% decrease compared to the prior year.

The Manatee County Tax Collector’s office earlier this month released October collection numbers for the county tourist tax — the 5% tax collected on accommodation rentals of six months or less.

The first month of the 2023-24 fiscal year showed $1,482,123 collected. In 2022-23, the same month’s collections totaled $1,792,372.

However, the tourist take in October was higher compared to other years, including the $1,437,374 collected in October 2021 and the $954,682 collected in October 2020.

The pattern was similar for September, when the 2023 collections of $1,495,995 dropped compared to the $1,543,920 collected in September 2022 but were still higher than for other Septembers.

Looking at the October numbers by area, Holmes

AMI TOURISM: Endless Season

Q&A 121323

The Islander poll

Foggy morning

Last week’s question Heat goes on in my house when the temperature hits …

fog blankets the shoreline of the gulf of mexico at the manatee Public Beach in Holmes Beach Dec. 4. islander Photo: Lisa neff

23%. 68 or below.

26%. 65 or below.

23%. 60 or below.

17%. 57 or below.

11%. Got to be freezing.

This week’s question i “read” …

A. Printed books.

B. Digital books.

C. Audiobooks.

D. All of the above.

E. Not a reader.

To answer the poll, go online to islander.org.

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Page 4 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Dec. 13, 2023 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Meet another 3 applicants for Anna Maria City Commission By ryan Paice islander reporter

The competition for two vacant seats on the Anna Maria City Commission keeps stacking up.

The city has received six applications from residents seeking to succeed Robert Kingan and Deanie Sebring as of Dec. 7, according to Mayor Dan Murphy.

Sebring’s seat remains vacant after she resigned and moved away in October. Her successor will serve the remainder of her term, which expires in December 2024.

Also, no one qualified to run for the seat occupied

by Kingan, who elected not to run for a second term in November.

His successor will step into a full two-year term, since Kingan’s expired this month.

Applicants for include: • John Kolojeski; • Gary McMullen; • Kathleen Morgan-Johnson; • Pat Olesen; • Susan Stephen; • Sharon Wisniewski.

Morgan-Johnson, Olesen and Wisniewski were the first applicants and have spoken with The Islander about their hopes in running for the vacant commission seats.

The latest three applicants — Kolojeski, McMullen and Stephen — spoke with The Islander the week of Dec. 4.

Kolojeski Kolojeski is a former deputy general counsel and chief of litigation for the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Office of Pesticides, Toxic Substances and Solid Waste Management.

He authored a section of a 1976 amendment to the U.S. Clean Water Act, served as a professor at Harvard University for a year and founded the environmental consulting firm Clement Associates Inc. He told The Islander Dec. 8 that he grew up in

Michigan and spent most of his career in Washington, D.C. before moving to Winter Park in 1995.

There, he fell in love with a woman whose family lived in Anna Maria since the 1960s. He moved to the city and, while his betrothed died before they could marry, he stayed on the island.

Kolojeski met his current fiance seven years ago and is set to get married Jan. 4.

He serves as the president of Anna Maria-based Combustion & Emissions Technologies LLC, specializing in technology for air pollution control in electric power plants.

Kolojeski also serves as a member of the Holmes Beach’s Clean Water Committee, which was created in 2021 to provide recommendations on projects and policies for improving and protecting local water quality.

Kolojeski said he would prefer the two-year term if he receives the most appointment votes.

“My fiance is very encouraging. She said, ‘Why don’t you throw your hat in the ring and serve your community?’ So, that’s what I decided to do,” he said.

“For better or for worse, I know there are six candidates — and may the best person win — but at least I’m going to give it my best try.”

McMullen McMullen told The Islander Dec. 6 that he was born and raised in Tampa but his parents bought his current home in the 1940s, so he spent summers on the island before becoming a permanent resident 13-14 years ago.

He said he graduated from Florida State University and has since spent most of his life working for government agencies.

He has served as reserve sergeant for the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office and worked for the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles for 35 years before retiring.

McMullen also worked as one of the city’s first code and parking enforcement officers for a couple years and trained some of the current officers.

Key to the city

“I understand government fairly well, I think,” McMullen said.

McMullen is now retired and serves as the vice chair of the city’s historical preservation board.

He would have to forfeit his position on the board to serve on the commission since Anna Maria’s charter prohibits commissioners from holding any other municipal office within the city.

McMullen said he planned to run in November for one of the available seats but was late in submitting his qualification forms to the Manatee County Supervisor of Elections Office.

He said he hoped to bring more decisiveness to the commission, which he said often acts slowly.

“I’ve been here all my life and I see how it is changing,” McMullen said. “I’m a longtime resident for the citizens of Anna Maria and for improving the city’s functionality for the residents and visitors alike.”

He said that if he receives the most votes, he would prefer the vacant two-year term.

“I don’t think I’d have enough time to get accomplished what I want to do within one year,” he said.

Stephen Stephen told The Islander Dec. 7 that she’s from the suburbs of Chicago and worked in sales before becoming a mother and homemaker.

She and her husband retired to Michigan’s Upper Peninsula but ended up reconsidering that plan after 4-5 years.

Her grandmother lived in Bradenton, so they were familiar with the island. They moved to Anna Maria in 2008.

Stephen said she’s “disappointed” with how the island has changed and hopes to maintain and protect its old Florida lifestyle.

“We just thought the island was always going to be like the flip-flop, beautiful, kick back and enjoy yourself Old Florida feel, and I’m just really upset with how the island has become. Where tourists overtake the rights of residents,” she said.

Stephen said she would bring an in-depth perspecPLeaSe, See APPLICANts, neXt Page

Meetings

anna maria mayor Dan murphy, right, presents a key to the city Dec. 7 to city commissioner robert Kingan at Kingan’s last meeting. Kingan was appointed to a two-year term on the commission in november 2021 but did not seek election in november, saying he would be spending more time with family in Sarasota. “it’s been a great ride,” Kingan said. “i’ve really enjoyed my last two years.” islander Photo: ryan Paice

By Lisa neff

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Anna Maria City Hall, 10005 Gulf Drive, 941-708-6130, cityofannamaria.com.

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Dec. 13, 2023 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 5 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

APPLICANts continueD from Page 4

tive to the commission.

“Every week, I walk pretty much every single street, so I know what’s going on all over the island, and I think that somebody who sees it from that viewpoint can bring a lot to the island,” she said. “Which is one of the reasons I wanted to do this.”

Stephen said she’s been contemplating running for a commission seat for a long time, but couldn’t meet the board’s attendance expectations in the past since she spends parts of the year in Michigan.

She added that following the COVID-19 pandemic, the city allows remote participation, which would help her to attend meetings while she is in Michigan.

If Stephen receives the most votes, she said she would prefer the two-year term.

“I’d go for broke,” she said. “I’d go all the way, why not?”

AM considers forum changes

Anna Maria city commissioners reached consensus Dec. 7 to authorize Mayor Dan Murphy to revise a public forum process for introducing applicants for two vacant commission seats.

Murphy said the city had received six applications and more than 30 questions, so it may need to consider changes to streamline its public forum and keep it within about two hours.

The process, in addition to submitted question, will involve live questions from the public at a forum.

Commissioners suggested setting time limits for the forum and for each applicant’s window to speak, condensing similar questions and allowing applicants to answer certain questions in writing.

Murphy said he would speak with each of the commissioners about their ideas for revising the process and come back with changes.

The window to apply for one of the two vacant commission seats will close Friday, Dec. 15, whereas the public will have until Wednesday, Dec. 27, to submit questions.

The questions will be provided to applicants by Friday, Dec. 29, so they have time to prepare before the forum at 6 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 11, at city hall, 10005 Gulf Drive.

The existing commission — which will consist of three members by Jan. 11 — will vote to appoint new members at 6 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 25, also at city hall.

Whoever receives the most votes will choose between the one- and two-year terms, leaving the other term to the applicant with the second-most votes.

To qualify for a commission seat, people must have maintained a residency within the city for at least two years, be a qualified voter of the city, and cannot be employed by the city or hold any other municipal office.

City commissioners receive a $4,800 annual salary.

— ryan Paice

County chair subject of state ethics investigation

By Dawn Kitterman the Bradenton times

Manatee County Commissioner Kevin Van Ostenbridge, R-District 3, is the subject of a Florida Commission on Ethics investigation after an ethics complaint filed against the commissioner was found to contain “sufficient” allegations of potential ethics violations.

The complaint, filed in June, alleges that Van Ostenbridge misused Van ostenhis public position when he purchased bridge the detailed voter data of more than 19,000 constituents from within his district with a county-issued purchasing card.

The complaint further alleges that the purchase was for the commissioner’s personal or political benefit, not for a valid public purpose.

Van Ostenbridge’s constituents are in west Bradenton, as well as the northern portion of Longboat Key and across Anna Maria Island.

The complainant’s allegations stem from details provided in a county inspector general audit report issued in May. The report made public the identified purchase and the county clerk’s recommendation that Van Ostenbridge refund the expenditure.

For his part, Van Ostenbridge disagreed with the IG and clerk’s finding that the purchase was inappropriate and had refused to reimburse the roughly $1,600 to the county until after the audit report had been made public.

In addition to concerns about the appropriateness of the expenditure, outside counsel that reviewed the matter on behalf of the county clerk and comptroller’s office raised concerns about the amount and nature of the data of private citizens that had become public record due to having been purchased—and received— via county resources.

Van Ostenbridge was notified in July that an ethics

complaint had been filed against him.

Once a complaint is received by the commission on ethics, it is reviewed to determine whether the allegations indicate a possible violation of state ethics laws. If a complaint is found to be “insufficient,” it is dismissed without investigation.

If the allegations are found to be “sufficient,” a preliminary investigation is undertaken into the allegations.

The investigative report will then move forward to the ethics commission, which will review information obtained to decide whether there is probable cause that there was a violation of any ethics laws.

Potential ethics violation cases remain under confidentiality while the investigative section of the commission on ethics completes its preliminary investigation. If the commission finds there is no probable cause, the complaint will be dismissed and records related to the complaint will be made public.

Should the commission find there is evidence to support probable cause, the complaint will become public record and the case will enter the last stage of proceedings.

The final stage requires that the commission decide whether the law was violated and, if so, whether a penalty should be recommended for the identified violations.

In 2021, the commission on ethics found probable cause that Manatee’s previous chair Vanessa Baugh had violated ethics law. She was Van Ostenbridge’s immediate predecessor and one-time political ally.

In January, Baugh reached a settlement by publicly agreeing she abused her elected position and paying an $8,000 fine. She received a public reprimand and censure.

Baugh has since resigned.

Editor’s note: Reprinted with permission from The Bradenton Times, which is online at thebradentontimes.com.

Anna Maria charter review committee comes up short By ryan Paice islander reporter

The city of Anna Maria needs two more volunteers for its quinquennial charter review to get started.

As of Dec. 7, the city had received one application from a “very strong and qualified” resident volunteering to serve on a three-five member charter review committee that will be tasked with combing through the document last reviewed in 2018, according to Mayor Dan Murphy.

The charter is akin to a constitution and establishes the structure, functions and procedures of municipal government.

The city must review its charter every five years by appointing a board of volunteers who review the document and present potential amendments to city commissioners for approval.

Major amendments are added to general election ballots as initiatives, so final approval falls to the city’s

electorate.

The city can also adopt amendments by unanimous vote to correct typographical errors and remove language that is contrary to or superseded by state and federal law, without a popular vote.

Charter review committee members must be city residents.

After the committee is formed, it will meet twothree times a month and return to the commission with recommendations after two-three months.

Murphy estimated the committee could complete its review of the charter by March and present potential amendments to city commissioners in April.

There was no public comment.

Residents interested in volunteering to serve on the charter review committee can email amadmin@ cityofannamaria.com or amclerk@cityofannamaria. com.

City hall is at 10005 Gulf Drive.

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Page 6 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Dec. 13, 2023 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Opinion

Our

Hype, hype, hype, no hype

The county tourism gurus have led us on a hunt for transportation solutions for many years.

Solutions to traffic problems were slow to come, but the introduction in 2002 of the Island Trolley, a component of Manatee County Area Transit, was a great start.

The fare-free trolley had its bumps along the way — loud mufflers that disrupted theater performances, a cartoon logo that ruffled some feathers and island kids riding all day in what they called X-treme trolley.

Nonetheless, this year, for the first time in our recollection, the entire MCAT system went to free rides and that’s a big improvement for folks who need transportation but can’t afford it and for young people who lack the means to move around the county and enjoy amenities like sports parks and other activities.

But the push for the ferry service — and they did push hard to get it operational — became paramount.

What could be better for a waterfront community than a water taxi to move people around without impacting traffic on the roads and bridges? Not much, but maybe that gondola ride over the Intracoastal Waterway suggested by a somewhat whacky former mayor will come to fruition in the future.

For now, the path for the water taxi cleared, the money was there to pay for it thanks to the boom in tourism and resort tax collections, and people everywhere were receptive. A cheap ride/tour on the water?

Heck, yeah. And a ride to the beach with connections across three cities of things to do and places to dine via a free trolley. Oh, yes, please.

They held a christening, a blessing, a preview ride for officials and the media — all with as much hype as they could muster — and promoted a Dec. 8 startup.

Then, boom! They announced a delay to the service into January 2024 with barely a whimper on the ferry website.

Maybe the tourism marketing folks are working on a way to turn the delay to their favor, but, for now, they’re mum on why the ferry service was delayed.

Please, stay tuned for more on the much anticipated ferry.

Hopefully we will soon have a full-blown, reliable, daily/nightly water taxi.

For me, thoughts over the past weekend were for the family and close friends of Gene Aubry on his Give the dogs a bone I’m collecting donations for the pups again this death.

He was a delightful, enchanting, intelligent, enter- year.

Last year, we collected more than 150 bones, taining, artistic and insightful man with impeccable giving each pup a bone for Christmas. taste and I shall forever cherish his friendship.

We are hoping to do that again this year.

— Bonner Joy, news@islander.org There are 100-plus dogs spending Christmas alone this year at our county shelter.

That’s a lot of stockings to fill.

Shelter resident Rudy has stepped up to be a DEC. 13, 2023 Vol. 32, No. 8 spokesdog for his pals. He’s asking to please make their days a little brighter with new Nylabones. Their supply is low and the bones they have are quite worn. ▼ Publisher, Co-editor Bonner Joy, news@islander.org The dogs love having a Nylabone in their kennel. ▼ Editorial It helps pass the time. editor Lisa neff, lisa@islander.org They need large “power chew” Nylabones, esperobert anderson, robert@islander.org cially the Barbells.

Joe Bird, editorial cartoonist Kevin cassidy, kevin@islander.org Donations can be sent, or dropped off at Manatee Jack elka, jack@jackelka.com County Animal Welfare, 305 25th St. W., Palmetto. robyn murrell, robyn@islander.org Or, if you prefer, I’m collecting funds, purchasryan Paice, ryan@islander.org capt. Danny Stasny, fish@islander.org ing and delivering bones and can be reached at renee▼ Contributors frgsn@gmail.com.

Karen riley-Love Renee Ferguson, Holmes Beach Jacob merrifield

Opinion

Your

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Connections, AMI & beyond

Anna Maria: Mayor Dan Murphy, 941-708-6130, cityofannamaria.com, ammayor@cityofannamaria.com.

Bradenton Beach: Mayor John Chappie, 941778-1005, cityofbradentonbeach.org, mayor@cityofbradentonbeach.com.

Holmes Beach: Mayor Judy Titsworth, 941-7085800, holmesbeachfl.org, hbmayor@holmesbeachfl.org.

Manatee County: Republican Commissioner Kevin Van Ostenbridge, 941-745-3705, kevin.vanostenbridge@mymanatee.org.

Florida Governor: Republican Ron DeSantis, 850-717-9337 for staff, flgov.com for email, @GovRonDeSantis via X. Florida Senate: Republican Jim Boyd, 941-7426445, boyd.jim.web@flsenate.gov, flsenate.gov, @JimBoydFL via X. Florida House: Republican Rep. William Cloud “Will” Robinson Jr., 941-708-4968, rudy, Santa’s will.robinson@myfloridahouse.gov, myfloridahouse. helper and shelter spokesdog. islander gov, @will_robinsonjr via X. courtesy Photo

Letters to the editor

We welcome opinion letters. Submit comments along with a name, city of residence and phone number for verification to news@islander.org.

Dec. 13, 2023 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 7 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

‘Favorite’ ride a postcard circa 1911 promotes a steamer operation between the mainland and anna maria island. Passengers stepped off the steamer at the anna maria city Pier. the back of the postcard reads, “Wharf at anna maria Beach, florida. Showing Steamer favorite landing with 650 people for a day’s outing at anna maria Beach.”

10&20 years ago

From the Dec. 10, 2003, issue

Docked downtown a postcard circa 1917 shows the Bradentown city Dock, also known as Braidentown Wharf, from the vantage point of the manavista Hotel. the dock was constructed around 1885 at the foot of main Street. the dock was bought by the city and in 1926 it was closed to make way for the municipal Pier. islander Photos: courtesy manatee Public Library System

Check The Islander archives 24/7 Some years ago, The Islander was invited to take part in a pilot project with the University of Florida George A. Smathers Libraries. We donated the collection of newspapers beginning with the first edition in 1992. It took some time but we are included on the library site. Look for The Islander in the UofF Florida digital newspaper collection at ufdc.ufl.edu.

• Anna Maria Commissioner Duke Miller called for an ordinance banning shark fishing along beaches after he received complaints. Miller said the use of multiple baited lines “stimulates sharks to congregate near the shore.” He asked the city attorney to research state law.

• Former Bradenton Beach city attorney Alan Prather, fired by a new commission, wrote that he and his firm would not be finalizing any pending matters with the city. He said the commission should hire a new attorney as soon as possible.

• Holmes Beach police were looking for a suspect in a series of burglaries from AMI to Siesta Key. The suspect also had outstanding warrants from other parts of Florida.

From the Dec. 11, 2013, issue

• Anna Maria public works superintendent George McKay said sand dredged from the Lake LaVista inlet, about 100 yards north of the city pier, was being pumped ashore and would be spread north and south along the pier beach.

• A plan put forth by Bradenton Beach Commissioner Jack Clarke and supported by a majority of the commission was to terminate every staff position at city hall but allow current employees to reapply for their positions.

• Anna Maria commissioners rejected by a 3-2 vote a site plan for a park on the vacant lots at the northeast end of Pine Avenue. The city purchased the property in October 2011.

• Plans to host a chalk festival on Anna Maria’s Pine Avenue were announced. Organizers included Pine Avenue Restoration and local cultural groups and artists.

— Lisa neff

We’d love to mail you the news!

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We bring you all the news about three city governments, community happenings, people features and special events … even real estate transactions … everything you need if your “heart is on Anna Maria Island.”

If you don’t live here year-round, use this form to subscribe by (snail) mail for yourself or someone else. (Sorry, we do not suspend mail subscriptions — you get The Islander free while you’re here!)

Take hands-on classes to explore traditional folk art and maritime skills. Spend the day learning a new craft and getting to know your community in a fun, engaging way!

Upcoming Classes: Mosaic Tiling Indigo Dye Painting with a Fish Kokedama Bonsai Candle-Making Sailor Valentine Pasta-Making Recreational Boat Safety Cheese-Making Weaving Key Lime Cooking And MORE!

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❑ 3-6 Months: $48 ❑ 1-3 Months: $36 ❑ 1 year: $76 U.S. FIRST cLASS AND cANADIAN MAIL SUBScRIPTION ❑ 3-6 Months: $120 ❑ 1-3 Months: $70 ❑ 1 year: $180 ❑ Single Issue: $5 FIRST CLASS MAIL, U.S. ONLY, maximum four weeks MAIL TO: ______________________________________________________________ ADDRESS _____________________________________________________________ CITY ____________________________ STATE __________ ZIP _________________ Credit card: ❏ d ❏ u No. ____________________________________________ Name shown on card: _____________________________ Exp. Date ___________ Credit card billing address: ______________________________________________ MAIL START DATE: _____________________________________________________

THE BEST NEWS ON ANNA MARIA ISLAND — SINCE 1992 315 58th St. • Holmes Beach FL 34217

CHARGE BY PHONE 941.778.7978 ONLINE (secure server) islander.org E-MAIL subscriptions@islander.org

Details and tickets available online at FloridaMaritimeMuseum.org Most classes intended for adult learners.

Class prices vary.

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Page 8 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Dec. 13, 2023 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

BB green lights Bridge Street resort-restaurant-retail project By robert anderson islander reporter

Bradenton Beach commissioners approved a planned development Dec. 7 that paves the way for a 106-room resort on Bridge Street.

The approval came with a series of stipulations presented by city staff, commissioners and planning and zoning board members and agreed upon by the applicant, a group that includes island developer Shawn Kaleta and City Commissioner Jake Spooner, a Bridge Street businessman.

The vote — 4-0 with Spooner abstaining — sets into motion the next phase of development for the resort partners.

City building official Steve Gilbert outlined that next phase in a Dec. 8 email to The Islander: “The next step will be for the city attorney to draft the ‘order of approval,’ … (and) bring the package back to commission for final approval of the site plan, the concept plan and the stipulations and conditions.”

Gilbert added that at some point during the process, the city will be following up with the applicants about demolition and site preparation.

Gilbert also said that engineering is needed to address mechanical, electrical, plumbing and fire systems, as well as structural designs related to flood resistance and coastal control line considerations that need to be submitted to the Florida Department of Environmental Protection.

The project proposed to the city involves constructing a 106-room, 206,987-square-foot resort, including a restaurant and retail space on multiple properties, including 101 Bridge St., formerly Freckled Fin restaurant; 106 Third St. S., a rental home; 105 Bridge St., formerly Island Time Inn/Magnolia Motel; and 219 Gulf Drive S., the site of Joe’s Eats & Sweets, which are owned or leased by Kaleta. According to the Manatee County Property Appraisers website, Najmy Thompson PL is the registered agent.

Included in the project are 108 Third St. S., a parking lot behind the Daiquiri Deck, 110 Third St. S., a multi-family home, 112 Third St. S., parking for The Fudge Factory, and 117 Bridge St., The Fudge Factory — all registered to Bridge Street Bazaar Inc., which is owned by Spooner.

The development team at the Dec. 7 hearing included attorney Stephen Thompson of Najmy Thompson PL, planner Susan Swift, architect Shaun Luttrell, traffic engineer Jay Calhoun and project manager Andro Perez.

Luttrell reviewed design changes based on recom-

Developer Shawn Kaleta addresses the Bradenton Beach commission Dec. 7 during a public hearing on a planned development to accommodate a resort-restaurant-retail property in the Bridge Street district. islander Photo: robert anderson

mendations from prior city meetings.

“In the last hearing, there were comments that were heard loud and clear,” he said, noting the new inclusion of a covered walkway to facilitate a safer pedestrian experience.

One recurrent issue throughout all the city meetings has been insufficient parking for the resort.

A 106-room hotel typically would require 133 spaces but original development plans included 99 spaces.

Luttrell said the design group added two parking spaces to the hotel lot and he proposed using hydraulic lifts to create 15 more spaces.

Luttrell said, “If it becomes necessary, after the building is complete and operations are up and running, if we find that we have a shortage of parking, we have 38 extra dedicated spots for lifts.”

With the added parking, the city would be able to keep 17 spaces for use by the public on a first-come first-serve basis.

Kaleta attended the Dec. 7 meeting. He told the commission, “I wanted to come on behalf of myself and Jake,” Kaleta said. “We’re the only two property owners in this. There’s no other group involved. We are two local individuals who want to do what’s right for the island and Bridge Street and Bradenton Beach.”

He said the project had been in design for more than seven years.

He said some of the resorts he owns on the island had little to no parking and that the amount of parking needed is less than what code dictates.

“By having more cars and more parking, you simply have more traffic,” he added.

Intensity and density issues also were discussed.

In earlier meetings, resort opposition said the comprehensive plan specifies an allowable density of 18 hotel units per acre.

Bradenton Beach Mayor John Chappie asked for clarification and Swift said that for a commercial property, a floor-area-ratio should be used to determine the number of allowable rooms.

Floor-area-ratio is a tool to evaluate the commercial intensity of a project, comparing a building’s square footage to the size of its lot.

PLeaSe, See resort, neXt Page

BSR stipulations for approval

• Gulf Drive setback: The applicant will abide by the 15-foot building setback.

• The applicant will provide a covered walkway allowing pedestrians access to Bridge Street.

• Balconies, open-air restaurant: The applicant will pursue a series of balconies for guest suites to improve the social interaction between guests and Bridge Street.

The restaurant will be an open-air establishment.

• 101 parking space plus 15 hydraulic vehicle lifts will create 116 spaces. Applicant will engineer 38 additional lifts.

• Only valet parking will be allowed use of lifts.

• Parking: The applicant will provide an easement for parking on Third Street South and any paid parking there would go to the city.

• The hotel shall use blackout curtains and place sea turtle educational information in rooms.

• The applicant will provide an easement to access a trash receptacle serving the Daiquiri Deck, 107 Bridge St., providing use of the hotel dumpsters.

• In the event of litigation based upon approval of the planned unit development and the rezoning by a third party, the applicant will incur 50% of the cost.

• The applicant will use three spaces in front of the hotel lobby for checking in/out.

• Landscape will be fulfilled in accordance to material from Luttrell Architecture.

• The applicant will operate the hotel 24 hours a day.

• The applicant agrees that more than 5% of hotel rooms will have multiple bedroom units.

— robert anderson

Bike Werks is a bike shop on wheels coming to you by appointment to tune up your bikes on the spot.

301.532.2679 | bikewerks.com

Dec. 13, 2023 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 9 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Florida-style menorah lighting Doctor’s Office owner Sean Murphy entertained a few friends and others came for an evening out Dec. 9 at the Holmes Beach craftbar and eatery where they celebrated Hanukkah. Murphy honored longtime friend Bob Schweiger, who died this month at age 102. Mr. Schweiger escaped Austria when the Nazis took over in 1939. Staff honored him by singing an Austrian carol, “Silent Night.”

Parker Svoboda, 9, and sister Caroline, 6, neighbors of Murphy, came to light the menorah and learn about the tradition. Islander Photo: Bonner Joy resort continued from page 10

City building official Steve Gilbert said, “Typically for commercial use under the future land use map, intensity is how much impact those activities will have on the surrounding area. That’s typically referenced as a commercial use which is normally assessed as floorarea-ratio rather than density.”

Chappie and Commissioner Ralph Cole both expressed concern about making the right decision for the community — the resort plans prompted opposition in a Change.org petition and social media campaigns and brought crowds to commission chambers for hearings.

However, the Katie Pierola Chambers at city hall was not overfilled Dec. 7 as it was for previous resort hearings, possibly due to the fact that the agenda did not include public comment — only dialogue between the applicant team and commissioners.

“We’ve been working hard to do all of this and make sure we get this right and ask the right questions,” Cole said.

Thompson pushed for approval, saying, “There

have been significant changes that have been made to the plan. We have worked very hard with your staff and, I think, as a result, we have come back with a superior plan.”

“We’re providing 100% of what is required,” Thompson said, referring to parking.

After some deliberation, Cole motioned to approve and adopt the ordinance establishing a planned development overlay district for the resort.

The motion was seconded by Jan Vosburgh and passed by a supra-majority vote of 4-0. Spooner did not vote due to his earlier recusal and Marilyn Maro voted by phone.

Kaleta said he hoped to begin demolition this month and would take up to six months to complete engineering for the resort.

The developer estimated the hotel could be open in spring 2026.

The city commission’s next meeting is scheduled for noon, Thursday, Dec. 21, at city hall, 107 Gulf Drive N.

The future site of the Bridge Street Resort includes the defunct Freckled Fin, Joe’s Eats and Sweets and Island Time Inn at the Bridge Street-Gulf DriveThird Street South intersection. Islander Photo: Jacob Merrifield

FRESH BEACH DINING SINCE 1993 Scan to see our menu 200 Gulf Drive North Bradenton Beach, FL beachhousedining.com

Page 10 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Dec. 13, 2023 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Skygazers invited to Robinson Suncoast Stargazers and the manatee county Parks and natural resources Department invite people to look up Dec. 16. Starry night astronomy will be 6-10 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 16, at robinson Preserve in the expansion parking lot at 10299 ninth ave. nW, Bradenton. “Dozens of local astronomers will be set up … with telescopes at the read,” stated a notice from the county. “Be sure to bring a sense of wonder and exploration.” the all-ages event is free to attend. for more information, call the county at 941-742-5923.

compiled by Lisa neff, calendar@islander.org

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT ON AMI Wednesday, Dec. 13 6:30 p.m. — Island Time Book Club — “Wish You Were Here”

by Jodi Picoult, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach.

Information: 941-778-6341.

ONGOING ON AMI Throughout December, “Holiday Decor” showcase, Artists’ Guild Gallery, 5414 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941778-6694.

ONGOING OFF AMI Through Jan. 7, “Guercino’s Friar with a Gold Earring” exhibit, the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, 5401 Bay Shore Road, Sarasota. Fee applies. Information: 941-360-7390, ringling.org.

Through April 28, “Dali and the Impressionists,” the Dali Museum, 1 Dali Blvd., St. Petersburg. Fee applies. Information: 727-823-3767.

Through June 23, “Mountains of the Mind: Scholars’ Rocks from China and Beyond” exhibit, the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, 5401 Bay Shore Road, Sarasota. Fee applies. Information: 941-360-7390, ringling.org.

First Fridays, 6-9:30 p.m., Village of the Arts First Fridays Artwalk, 12th Street West and 12th Avenue West, Bradenton. Information: villageofthearts.com.

Second and fourth Saturdays, 2-4 p.m., Music on the Porch jam session, presented by the Florida Maritime Museum and Cortez Cultural Center, 4415 119th St. W., Cortez. Information: floridamaritimemuseum.org.

SAVE THE DATE Jan. 13, Anna Maria Island/Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau Foghat concert, Anna Maria.

Jan. 21, Island Players’ “Communicating Doors” auditions, Anna Maria.

Jan. 26, Anna Maria Island/Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau Croce Plays Croce concert, Anna Maria.

Feb. 23, Anna Maria Island/Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau Guess Who concert, Anna Maria.

March 10, Island Players’ “The Woman in Black” auditions, Anna Maria.

April 6, Anna Maria Island/Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau Al Jardin concert, Anna Maria.

ONGOING ON AMI Select Thursdays — including Dec. 14 — Shark Pups and Grownups preschool program, Mote Marine Science Education and Outreach Center on Anna Maria City Pier, Pine Avenue and Bay Boulevard, Anna Maria. Information: mote.org.

Pier Park, Pine Avenue and Bay Boulevard. Anna Maria. Information: OFF AMI 941-708-6130.

ONGOING OFF AMI Through April 2024, select dates Artists’ Guild Gallery Paint Dec. 13-17, 6-9 p.m., Palma Sola Botanical Park’s Winter Night the Town sidewalk demonstrations and sales events, 5414 Marina Under the Lights, 9800 17th Ave. NW, Bradenton. Information: 941Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6694.

761-2866.

ONGOING OFF AMI First Wednesdays, SOAR in 4 family night, the Bishop Museum, Thursdays through December, after 5 p.m., Thursdays in Para- 201 10th St. W., Bradenton. Fee applies. Information: 941-746-4131, dise — Christmas Edition, Bridge Street, Bradenton Beach. Informa- bishopscience.org. tion: lovebradentonbeach.com.

Third Fridays, Teen Nights, the Bishop Museum, 201 10th St. Select Fridays — Jan. 12, Feb. 9, March 8, April 12 — 5:30- W., Bradenton. Fee applies. Information: 941-746-4131, bishop7:30 p.m., Holmes Beach Night Market, Holmes Beach. Information: science.org.

941-778-6694.

Second Saturdays, Quest for Kids, the Bishop Museum, 201 Saturdays through May 7, 9 a.m.-2 p.m., Bradenton Market, 10th St. W., Bradenton. Fee applies. Information: 941-746-4131, Old Main Street, Bradenton. Information: 941-301-8445. bishopscience.org.

SAVE THE DATE

SAVE THE DATE

Jan. 13-14, Anna Maria Winter Arts and Crafts Market, Holmes Dec. 21, Robinson Preserve Holiday Crafting, Bradenton.

Beach.

Jan. 4, Robinson Preserve Game Night, Bradenton.

Jan. 20-21, Coquina Beach Winter Arts and Crafts Market, Jan. 11-21, Manatee County Fair, Palmetto.

Bradenton Beach.

CLUBS & Feb. 9-10, Feed the Peeps Arts and Crafts Market, Anna COMMUNITY Maria.

March 2-3, The Invitational, Holmes Beach.

ON AMI March 8-9, Feed the Peeps Arts and Crafts Market, Anna Wednesday, Dec. 13 Maria.

5 p.m. — Annie Silver Community Center meeting and election, April 6-8, Coquina Beach Spring Arts and Crafts Market, Bra103 23rd St. N., Bradenton Beach. Information: 941-224-1973. denton Beach.

March 14-16, Friends of the Island Library Jewelry Sale, Thursday, Dec. 14 1 p.m. — Sunshine Stitchers, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach.

Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341.

KIDS & FAMILY ON AMI

MARKETS & SALES

ONGOING ON AMI

Most Saturdays, 8:30 a.m., Kiwanis Club of Anna Maria Island Friday, Dec. 15 meeting, Bradenton Beach City Hall, 107 Gulf Drive N., Bradenton ONGOING ON AMI 10 a.m. — Forty Carrots playtime with parents, Island Library, Beach. Information: 941-778-1383.

Tuesdays, 8:30 a.m.-2 p.m., Anna Maria Farmers Market, City 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341.

Tuesdays, noon, Rotary Club of Anna Maria Island meeting, Bridge Street Bistro, 111 Gulf Drive S., Bradenton Beach. Information: 941-718-5583.

Odd Duck Designs Shop Wearable T-shirt art by local artist Connie Wolgast.

Scan here to shop! etsy.com/shop/OddDuckDesignsShop 941-224-1897

Holistic wellness center and spa

Now offering yoga and meditation in the ambiance of a healing Himalayan salt wall.

Massage Therapy | Acupuncture | Yoga 2219 Gulf Drive N | Bradenton Beach

941.778.8400 | www.alunawellness.com

“Anna Maria Island,” a signed pictorial history book of the island by Bonner Joy, is available for $20 from the islander. Visit islander. org or call 941-7787978. $20 plus postage, if applicable.

Island happenings

Dec. 13, 2023 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 11 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

OFF AMI Wednesday, Dec. 13 11:45 a.m. — Off Stage Ladies luncheon and meeting, Cipriano Cucina and Bar, 3561 53rd Ave. W., Bradenton. Fee applies.

Information: 941-932-2798.

Tuesday, Dec. 19 4 p.m. — Cortez Village Historical Society annual membership meeting, Cortez Cultural Center, 11655 Cortez Road, Cortez.

Information: cvhs2016@aol.com.

ONGOING OFF AMI Third Thursdays, 6:30 p.m., through April, Manatee Audubon Society meetings, First United Methodist Church of Palmetto, 330 11th Ave. W., Palmetto. Information: manateeaudubon@gmail.com, 941-729-2222.

Annie Silver meeting set

Annie Silver Community Center supporters will hold a meeting at 5 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 13.

The group is organizing for the 2023-24 season of suppers, bingo, book sales, potlucks and community suppers.

An annual election of officers and board members also is planned.

The neighborhood center is at 103 23rd St. N., Bradenton Beach.

For more information, call Judy Pruitt at 941224-1973.

Cortez group to hold elections

The Cortez Village Historical Society will hold its annual membership meeting and board elections at 4 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 19.

The meetup will be at the Cortez Cultural Center, 11655 Cortez Road, Cortez.

For more information, email cvhs2016@aol.com or call 941-840-0590.

Off Stage Ladies to lunch

The Off Stage Ladies, an auxiliary of the Island Players, will meet for lunch at 11:30 a.m. Wednesday, SAVE THE DATE Dec. 13, at Cipriano Cucina and Bar, 3561 53rd Ave. Jan. 24, Feb. 21, March 22, Annie Silver Community Center W., Bradenton. community suppers, Bradenton Beach.

The event will include a Secret Santa gift exchange, Kiwanis to celebrate a holiday-themed luncheon and a holiday boutique.

LESSONS & The group meets the second Wednesday of the The Kiwanis Club of Anna Maria Island will hold LEARNING its annual private holiday party and ornament exchange month through May. The cost to join the group is $25.

Saturday, Dec. 16, at a club member’s home.

ON AMI People interested in joining Off Stage Ladies can For more, including the time and address, call Wednesday, Dec. 13 contact Roe Duncan at 941-932-2798. member Sandy Haas-Martens at 941-778-1383.

11 a.m. — Home Organization 101, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341. org.

SAVE THE DATE Friday, Dec. 15 2 p.m. — Holocaust Speaker Series, Island Library, 5701 Jan. 12, Center of Anna Maria Island Bingo Night, Anna SAVE THE DATE Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341.

Maria.

Dec. 28, Perico Preserve tour, Perico Island.

Jan. 18-March 28, Thursdays, Annie Silver Community Center ONGOING OFF AMI Dec. 28, Seashell Shore Walk, Bradenton Beach. bingo, Bradenton Beach.

Dec. 28, Robinson Preserve Litter Cleanup, Bradenton.

Mondays, 1 p.m., Longboat Key Paradise Center for Healthy Feb. 24, 2024, Pittsburgh Pirates spring training opens, BraJan. 2, Coquina Beach Cleanup, Bradenton Beach.

Living Thinking Out Loud discussions, 546 Bay Isles Road, Longboat denton.

Jan. 4, Bayfront Park Cleanup, Anna Maria.

Key. Information: 941-383-6493.

April 5, 2024, Bradenton Marauders season opens, Bradenton.

CALENDAR NOTES SAVE THE DATE Jan. 11, Friends of the Island Library Lecture and Travel Series begins, Anna Maria.

SPORTS & GAMES ONGOING ON AMI Most Wednesdays, 1 p.m., mahjong club beginners, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-7786341.

Most Fridays, 11:30 a.m., mahjong club experienced players, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941778-6341.

Mondays, 10 a.m., morning yoga, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341.

OUTDOORS & NATURE

Dec. 21, winter solstice.

Dec. 24, Christmas Eve. ONGOING OFF AMI Dec., 25, Christmas.

Saturdays, 9 a.m., Mornings at the NEST, Robinson Preserve, Dec. 26-Jan. 1, Kwanzaa.

10299 Ninth Ave. NW, Bradenton. Information: 941-742-5923, Dec. 31, New Year’s Eve. mymanatee.org.

Jan. 1, New Year’s Day. Editor’s note: During the holidays, some ongoing regular events OFF AMI may be canceled.

Saturday, Dec. 16 Get listed! Send listings to calendar@islander.org.

6-9 p.m. — Starry Night Astronomy, Robinson Preserve, 10299 Ninth Ave. NW, Bradenton. Information: 941-742-5923, mymanatee.

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Music Lessons: Guitar, Piano, Ukulele, Saxophone and Drum

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playitagainjams.com 8208 Cortez Road W., Ste.5, Bradenton

Get your holiday salon package today! Cut/style with Cindy AND mani/pedi with Marilena!

Book now and mention ad!

Special $92.70 (Reg $103) Relieve holidaystress with a massage by Shelly!

Gift certificates make a GREAT GIFT!

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Used & Consigned Musical Instruments Open JAM 1st Wednesdays

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OPEN HOUSE 8-2 Friday Dec. 15 and 9-noon Saturday Dec. 16

Located at Sunny Shores off Cortez Road

need a good laugh? visit the NEW emerson quillin signature store. humor, art, gifts NEW LOCATION: HB Post Office, 5354 Gulf Drive• emersonshumor.com

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11703 40th Ave. W. • Bradenton

941-794-1226

Page 12 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Dec. 13, 2023 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Santa and the Grinch bring holiday cheer to Anna Maria

manatee county Sheriff’s Sgt. Brett getman, left, and Deputy Jared Leggett, right, arrest the grinch Dec. 9 and lead him away from anna maria’s annual Santa Stops Here event at city Pier Park. islander Photos: ryan Paice

Lukas moe, 2, and his brother, Henrik, 4 months, talk Dec. 9 to Santa claus during the annual Santa Stops Here event in anna maria. the brothers are from minnesota and were visiting the island with family.

People wait in line Dec. 9 at city Pier Park, 101 n.

Bay Blvd., anna maria, for a chance to see Santa claus during the city-hosted annual Santa Stops Here event.

caroline Svoboda, 6, of Holmes Beach, and brother, Parker, 9, visit Dec. 9 with Santa claus during the city of anna maria’s annual Santa Stops Here event at city Pier Park, 101 n. Bay Blvd.

far rigHt: ivy Bannwarth, 2, and her sister, tilly, 4, visit Santa claus Dec. 9 during a family vacation to the island from Kansas city, missouri.

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The Islander 315 58th St., HB.

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941-795-1297

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Dec. 13, 2023 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 13 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Celebrating STEAM Choice window opens

The window is open to file 2024-25 school choice applications for K-12 Manatee schools, including Anna Maria Elementary.

The choice program allows a parent or guardian to request enrollment for their children in a specific school that has not reached capacity.

Parents can use choice to enroll their children in programs with special interests and educational tracks, including international baccalaureate, arts, language, engineering, business and more.

Students enrolled through school choice are not eligible for bus transportation with the exception of several international baccalaureate programs.

Here’s how school choice works: Approval of applications is subject to class capacities and is not first-come, first-assigned.

Applications, due by Wednesday, Dec. 20, are run through a lottery, with results emailed to applicants for spring 2024 and fall 2024 enrollment.

Applications must be completed by enrolling in an online FOCUS account through the school district at www.manateeschools.net/focus.

For more information about school choice, call the school district at 941-708-8770.

anna maria elementary students gather Dec. 6 for Literacy/ Steam night activities. ame principal mike masiello told the islander Dec. 8 that students also “designed balsa wood airplanes, coded robots, created origami fish and planted plants with our community master gardeners.” islander Photos: courtesy Principal mike masiello

BeLoW Left: People browse exhibits Dec. 6 anna maria elementary in Holmes Beach, which hosted an evening dedicated to literacy and Steam — science, technology, engineering, the arts and mathematics.

BeLoW rigHt: a marine-focused display at ame’s Literacy/ Steam night.

— Lisa neff

AME Calendar

• Friday, Dec. 15, holiday cookie exchange.

• Dec. 18-20, holiday shopper.

• Thursday, Dec. 21, 6:30 p.m., fifth-grade play.

• Dec. 22-Jan. 8, no school, winter break.

• Friday, Jan. 12, 3:45 p.m., PTO board meeting.

• Friday, Jan. 12, 6:30 p.m., PTO outdoor movie.

• Monday, Jan. 15, Martin Luther King Jr. Day, no school.

• Thursday, Jan. 25, 3:45 p.m., SAC meet.

• Friday, Jan. 26, AME walkathon.

AME is at 4700 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach.

For more information, call the school at 941-708-5525.

— Lisa neff

Tiki & Kitty’s

Ho! Ho! Ho! It’s time to join Tiki and Kitty on

their round of shopping, looking for cheerful decor, bargains galore and holiday spirit! We’re enjoying the holiday season with the best places to shop.

We’ll definitely make a stop at Blue Flamingo, home to hip and trendy upcycled and repurposed goods, furniture and decor, garden features, candles, jewelry and work by local artisans. They also offer Dixie Belle paints.

There’s still lots of time to find a perfect vintage holiday gift in your travels around town.

T&K love Cat’s Meow, an 8,000 square-foot marketplace! Their vendors offer coastal, cottage, beach, antique, boho, mid-century modern and other home decor styles. They also offer vintage to fine jewelry and vintage albums.

You may want to lace up your skates, as this large, former skating rink has plenty to offer bargain, antique, unique hunters. You don’t want to miss this vast collection of vendors.

Blessed and Distressed is a tastefully designed store — so inviting, you’ll want to pull up a chair — with collectibles and work by local artists at Palma Sola Square, around the corner from Winn-Dixie. It offers 30-plus vintage, upcycled, shabby chic and artsy vendors. You won’t be disappointed.

Scavengers Marketplace has plenty of vendors to capture your wallet at the Palmetto store, 2100 U.S. 301. There’s always something new to entice you among the vendors’ eclectic collections.

Stop by at our other locations:

FYI: Scavengers also carries Fusion Paints.

The Vintage Vine Market is a favorite for Tiki and Kitty, who love the fine vintage wares and items with a whimsical twist at this store in historic Old Manatee along the newest section of the Bradenton Riverwalk. The location in the 1910 building oozes charm. And they take select consignments by appointment.

And don’t forget, tell people you meet along the way, “The Islander sent me.”

Wed-Sat 10-5 Palma Sola Square Winn Dixie Plaza

615 59th St. W. Bradenton 941-896-8800

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10 to 5 Tues-Sat | 941.227.1936 4229 26th St. W. | Bradenton

4307 26th St. W. Bradenton 941.782.8883

Page 14 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Dec. 13, 2023 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Gathering

a roser christmas cantata is performed. islander courtesy Photo

By Lisa neff

Churches conduct concerts

Roser Memorial Community Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, will feature performances of a Christmas cantata Sunday, Dec. 17, at 8:30 a.m. and 10 a.m. worship services.

This “Sing Christmas” services will feature the church’s cantata choir, chamber orchestra and the youth choir under the direction of Craig Ramberger, director of music ministries.

The cantata will include original music and favorite carols with a narration that tells the Christmas story.

For more information, call the church at 941-7780414.

Gloria Dei Lutheran Church will hold its holiday concert, “A Celebration of the Seasons,” featuring musician Elena Zamolodchikova, at 2 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 17.

The concert will begin with Christmas carols, followed by composer Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky’s “The Seasons” and concluding with a reception.

“The pieces became very popular among both professional and amateur pianists,” Zamolodchikova said of “The Seasons.” “November,” she added, was Sergei Vasilyevich Rachmaninoff’s favorite encore.

The event at the church, 6608 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, is open to the public.

For more info, call the church at 941-778-1813.

Tidings

compiled by Lisa neff

THIS WEEK

Through Dec. 31 5-9 p.m. — Christmas in the Garden: A Celebration of Lights and Music, Longboat Island Chapel, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key. Special programs Dec. 11, Dec. 13, Dec. 19, Dec. 21 and Dec. 31. Information: 941-383-6491.

Thursday, Dec. 14 11:30 a.m. — Women’s Guild Potluck Christmas Luncheon, St. Bernard Catholic Church, 248 S. Harbor Drive, Holmes Beach.

Information: 941-778-4769.

Growing in Jesus’ Name

elena Zamolodchikova will perform a christmas concert Sunday, Dec. 17 at gloria Dei. islander courtesy Photo

Christ Church of Longboat Key welcomes new pastor Christ Church of Longboat Key recently named a new pastor, the Rev. Dr. Julia Wharff Piermont.

A notice from the church said a nominating committee reviewed more than 90 candidates and then, “with great joy and excitement … unanimously nominated” Piermont.

The notice on the church website said Piermont and her husband, Dennis, relocated to Longboat Key from Dublin, Ohio, for her first service as pastor, which was Dec. 3.

In Ohio, she served as pastor of Worthington Presbyterian Church for nine years.

She earned a doctorate at Princeton Theological Friday, Dec. 15 9:30 a.m. — Christmas Day Mass for the Homebound” recording, St. Bernard Catholic Church, 248 S. Harbor Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-4769.

Sunday, Dec. 17 8:30 a.m. — Roser Memorial Community Church Christmas Cantata, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Information: 941-778-0414.

10 am. — Roser Memorial Community Church Christmas Cantata, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Information: 941-778-0414.

2 p.m. — Gloria Dei Lutheran Church Christmas “Seasons” Concert and Carol Sing, 6608 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-1813.

Monday, Dec. 18 Noon — Beth Israel Women “Paid Up” Luncheon, Temple Beth Israel, 567 Bay Isles Road, Longboat Key. Fee applies. Reservations required. Information: 941-383-3428.

Worship With Us at Our Church Sunday Service 10:00 AM Dr. Julia Wharff Piermont, Pastor

DĞŶ’Ɛ ŝďůĞ ^ƚƵĚLJ͗ DŽŶĚĂLJ @ ϵ͗ϬϬ tŽŵĞŶ’Ɛ ŝďůĞ ^ƚƵĚLJ͗ tĞĚŶĞƐĚĂLJ @ ϭϬ͗ϬϬ

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6400 Gulf of Mexico Dr. • 941.383.8833 ;ŽĸĐĞͿ • www.christchurchoflbk.org

islander.org

Seminary, a master’s at McCormick Theological Seminary in Chicago and a bachelor’s at Luther College in Iowa.

In a letter to the congregation, Piermont wrote, “I am honored to be the first full-time pastor for Christ Church and eager to see what the Lord has in store for us.”

The church is at 6400 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key. For more information, call the church at 941-3838833.

Obituaries

Eugene ‘Gene’ Edwards Aubry

Eugene “Gene” Edwards Aubry, 87, of Palmetto and formerly of Anna Maria, died Dec. 9.

He was born Nov. 15, 1935 in Galveston, Texas.

He graduated Ball High School in Galveston, then from the University of Houston School of Architecture.

He was a member of the American Institute of Architects and was elected to its College of Fellows. aubry He was a much-acclaimed architect in Houston, where many of his projects fill the skyline and architectural journals refer to him as “the man who rebuilt Houston.”

He was a named partner in the fifth largest architectural firm in the country, Morris Aubry Architects.

Locally he designed the Selby Library in Sarasota and the Philharmonic Center for the Arts in Naples.

His hotel credits include the Windsor Court in New Orleans and the St. Regis Aspen.

He was elected to serve a term on the Anna Maria City Commission in 2011 when another commissioner was recalled from office and was appointed to fill a vacancy on the commission in 2012. He also served on the city planning and zoning board and several city committees.

He was a musician who cherished playing guitar and entertaining patrons at local restaurants on Anna Maria Island. And he was an artist, who used simple, PLeaSe, See oBItUArIes, neXt Page

Sing Christmas

Gloria Dei Lutheran Holiday Concert

A CHRISTMAS CHORAL EXPERIENCE

“A Celebration of the Seasons”

arr. Joel Raney & Mary McDonald

Featuring the Roser Cantata Choir, Chamber Orchestra and Roser Youth Performing Arts

Please join us for a concert of Christmas piano & organ music.

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 17 8:30 & 10:00 AM

Featuring Dr. Elena Zamolodchikova performing Tchaikovsky’s, The Seasons Sunday December 17th at 2 p.m.

COME EARLY FOR THE BEST SEATING IN THE ROSER SANCTUARY AND ONLINE

RoserChurch.com

Light refreshments to follow

“...a beautiful place to explore your faith...”

941-778-0414 • 512 Pine Ave, Anna Maria • FOLLOW us on Facebook @RoserChurch

Gloria Dei Lutheran Church – 6608 Marina Drive – 941.778.1813

Dec. 13, 2023 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 15 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

oBItUArIes from Page 14

fine lines and subtle colors to capture moments in time as no photograph can.

He was a mentor and a teacher, volunteering to share his passion for architecture with students.

He was a published author who took great pride in a book of his drawings of older homes in Galveston, “Born on the Island, The Galveston We Remember,” published in 2012 by Texas A&M Press and commissioned to raise funds for the Galveston Historical Foundation.

A private family service is planned. Memorial donations may be made to the Galveston Historical Society, 2002 Strand, Galveston, TX 77550, or by emailing foundation@galvestonhistory.org.

Mr. Aubry is survived by his life partner, Sandy Rich; daughters Adrian Villanueva and Christian Parsons, both of Houston; brother Don of Aransas Pass, Texas; former wife Janet of Gainesville; step-daughters Suzanne Barlow of Land O’Lakes, Katharine Wight of Fort Collins, Colorado; and grandchildren Eisley Wight, Tristan, Wyatt, and Ryder Barlow, Cathy Pickavance, Hunter Shelton, Alice and Charles Gray, and Aubry Villanueva.

Jeanne Bigelow Auten

Jeanne Bigelow Auten of Bradenton died Dec. 5.

She was a gift to her family and friends, but her gift to all was a beautiful smile and infectious laugh.

There will be no service. She will rest in peace next to the only man she ever loved, late husband Frederick, in Cass City, Michigan. auten Mrs. Auten is survived by daughter Mardi Coury and husband C.J. of Holmes Beach; sons Andrew and wife Nancy of Hawthorne, Florida, and Charles and wife Julie of Mineral Bluff, Georgia; granddaughters Melissa Coury Befera and husband Joe and Tiffany Portia Coury and husband Brett of Carson City, Nevada; great-grandson Chase Jordan; and greatgranddaughter Madison Blair of Lakewood Ranch.

Dave ‘Watchdog’ Miner

Dave “Watchdog” Miner, 77, of Bradenton, died Nov. 17.

He was born David Wilman Miner May 13, 1946, in St. Petersburg to James Sr. and Ivalita Glasscock Miner.

He spent his youth in Owosso, Michigan. miner He graduated from Amherst College in 1970, where he was a member of the crosscountry and track teams. He also wrote for the school newspaper, taught Sunday School, tutored inner-city kids, and represented Amherst at the Naval Academy Foreign Affairs Conference.

He enlisted in the U.S. Marines Corps after his sophomore year at Amherst and served two years, including a tour in Vietnam.

He returned to Amherst College to finish his degree and then earned a law degree in spring 1974 from the University of Detroit School of Law. After law school, he began working for his dad, and later worked as an assistant city attorney, an assistant county attorney, a prosecutor and eventually had his own law practice in Florida for more than 25 years.

He married Marsha Krause and adopted her 8-month-old daughter. A few years later their son was born.

He felt great pride in his children and would speak highly of them and their accomplishments.

While watching his children find their way through Manatee County schools, he began to find faults with the system and, as a self-proclaimed “Watchdog,” he used unconventional methods to get the attention of the school board.

He believed in the power of his roadside campaign signs, “Vote for Watchdog,” and was elected to two terms on the school board, in 2012 and 2016.

He was a lifelong member of the American Legion, VFW, DAV, and Kiwanis Club.

He was a leader in establishing Manatee’s first Child Abuse Prevention Program and creating METV.

He was chairman of the Central Florida Public School Boards Coalition, past president of Kiwanis Club of Anna Maria Island, past president of Manatee Children Services, director of the Florida Coalition for Assessment Reform and director of the Florida School Board Association. He was an avid supporter of the NAACP and the Southern Christian Leadership Conference.

He was well-known in Manatee County for his passionate devotion to the betterment of his community.

He also loved his dogs. During his last years, he was rarely seen without “Luca” at his side.

A memorial service will be held starting at 10 a.m.

Friday, Jan. 5, at Griffith-Cline Funeral Home, 720 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton. Memorial donations may be made to the Bradenton Kiwanis Club, the Center in Orlando, or Bishop Animal Shelter in Bradenton.

Mr. Miner is survived by his daughter, Sarah and husband Steve Cureton; son Joseph; granddaughter Jacquelyn, and nieces Jan and husband Robert Woods and Rebecca and husband Todd Schmidt.

At your service

Obituaries are offered as a free community service to residents and families of residents, both past and present, as well as to people with ties to the island.

Please, submit notices to news@islander.org.

Paid obituaries can be discussed with ad consultant Toni Lyon at 941-778-7978.

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Page 16 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Dec. 13, 2023 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

GoodDeeds

Assistance sought on AMI

• The Anna Maria Island Art League seeks volunteers for the Springfest Fine Arts Festival March 16-17, 2024, in Holmes Beach. Info: 419-450-4824.

• The Artists’ Guild of Anna Maria Island welcomes members to support the gallery, 5414 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Info: amiartistsguildgallery. com, 941-778-6694.

• The Island Players, 10009 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria, seeks volunteers for the 75th season of shows.

Info: theislandplayers.org, 941-941 778-5755.

• The Anna Maria Island Historical Society, 402 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, seeks volunteer docents and bakers. Info: 941-778-0492, amihs.org.

• Wildlife Inc. rescue and rehabilitation in Bradenton Beach seeks help tending to injured animals. Info: 941-778-6342.

• Roser Food Bank seeks donations. Roser Memorial Community Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, administers the pantry, supported by All Island Denominations. Info: 941-778-0414.

Milestones

Theatrical birthday celebration

the island Players’ off Stage actors group performed a series of skits Dec. 1 at Heritage Park care and rehabilitation center in Bradenton, where they honored longtime island Players and off Stage Ladies patron Dorothy rose eder, whose 104th birthday is Dec. 14. cathy Hansel-edgerton presented eder, who is residing at Heritage Park, with flowers and best wishes from the theater friends. “it is a privilege to bring our theater to Dorothy,” Hansel-edgerton said. “We sincerely thank her for her support and dedication throughout the years.” the off Stage actors program is booked for the 2023-24 season. islander courtesy Photo

35th anniversary Bill and Kathy Shafer of anna maria, center, married on the beach in Dec. 3, 1988, with Brent Hill as best man and mary Jane clewell as maid of honor.

Bill Shafer, celebrating the 35th anniversary, wrote to the islander saying he’d like to stage the photo again someday.

Assistance offered on AMI

• Roser Food Bank welcomes applicants who live and/or work on Anna Maria Island for food assistance, Holmes Beach schedules Sleigh Bell Social Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Info: 941Holmes Beach will host one more event to ring in For the inaugural event, the city sought sponsors to 778-0414. the holiday season. provide free food and drinks, raffle gifts such as chil• AID offers financial help to those who live on The city will host the Sleigh Bell Social 2023 3:30 dren’s bicycles and toys, as well as to fund a bounce the island, worship on the island, attend school on the p.m.-7:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 14, at city field in the house or other entertainment activities. island and work on the island. For more info: 941-725- 5900 block of Marina Drive.

For more information about the event, people can 2433.

The event will “celebrate our community and pro- contact code compliance administrator Kim Charron — Lisa neff vide an evening of holiday cheer for residents, visitors by phone at 941-778-0331, ext. 264, or email at kcharSend listings to lisa@islander.org. and our business friends,” according to a release. ron@holmesbeachfl.org.

— ryan Paice

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Dec. 13, 2023 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 17 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Christmas in Cortez with FMM, FISH brings holiday cheer

The Rowlett Chix of Rowlett Elementary Academy perform under the direction of Cathy Baudrit during the Dec. 9 Christmas in Cortez celebration at the Florida Maritime Museum in Cortez. Islander Photos: Robert Anderson

Olivia Rutledge 7, shows off dolphin sand art she created Dec. 9 with mother Barbara and sister Penelope, 2, at Christmas in Cortez at the Florida Maritime Museum, 4415 119th St W. A nautical Christmas tree adorns the main hall of the Florida Maritime Museum Dec. 9 for Christmas in Cortez.

FISH feast

Joanne Bodyshows off her plate of Christmas joy Dec. 4 at the FISH dinner. Islander Photos: Robert Anderson Diners dig in at a Florida Institute for Saltwater Heritage Christmas potluck dinner Dec. 4 at Fishermen’s Hall, 4515 124th St. W., Cortez. More than 60 people attended, enjoying a variety of meats, sides, desserts and, of course, seafood.

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Page 18 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Dec. 13, 2023 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Juvenile accused of firearm theft, marijuana possession By ryan Paice islander reporter

Holmes Beach police arrested a Bradenton juvenile Nov. 27 on two third-degree felony charges for allegedly stealing a firearm from the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office and possessing more than 20 grams of marijuana.

The juvenile, who was not named, also faces a first-degree misdemeanor charge for allegedly possessing a firearm while under the age of 18.

An officer was patrolling in the 100 block of 52nd Street around 8:25 p.m. when he observed a parked vehicle with its lights on and engine running.

The officer, when he approached the vehicle, detected a smell of burnt marijuana, according to a police report.

The officer identified the driver and two juveniles in the vehicle’s backseat and saw green flakes resembling marijuana on one of the juvenile’s laps.

After backup arrived, officers placed the vehicle’s occupants under temporary custody and performed pat-down searches.

The report said one of the juveniles possessed a loaded firearm that was reported stolen from the MCSO. In the vehicle, police reported finding 38 vaporizer pens, one marijuana cigarette, two containers with 140.1 grams of marijuana, a digital scale and other drug paraphernalia, as well as four partial 12-packs of Mike’s Hard Lemonade.

The officers contacted the juveniles’ parents and read them their Miranda rights.

The officers issued the driver a citation for possession of multiple containers of alcohol in the vehicle.

open 11 am to 11 Pm Wednesday-Sunday, closed mon.-tues.

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Police issued one juvenile a citation for allegedly possessing less than 20 grams of marijuana and released him into the custody of his mother.

The officers arrested the juvenile found in possession of the firearm and transported him to the HCA Florida Blake Hospital in Bradenton for medical clearance before taking him to a juvenile assessment center, also in Bradenton.

Streetlife

Island police reports

Anna Maria No new reports.

The Manatee County Sheriff’s Office polices Anna Maria.

Bradenton Beach Nov. 30, 103 Gulf Drive S., Circle K, overdose.

A Manatee County Sheriff’s deputy and emergency medical services were called in response to an overdose. An individual was transported to HCA Florida Blake Hospital in Bradenton.

The Bradenton Beach Police Department polices Bradenton Beach.

Cortez No new reports.

The MCSO polices Cortez.

Holmes Beach Nov. 28, 300 block of 67th Street, stolen golf cart.

A Holmes Beach police officer responded to a call about a stolen golf cart. The complainant provided Ring camera footage of a man exiting a white Jeep from the street, getting in a rented golf cart and driving away. The officer contacted the rental agency, Robinhood Rentals, which said no employees took possession of the vehicle. The agency wanted to press charges.

Nov. 29, 100 block of 51st Street, criminal mischief. An officer responded to reports of criminal mischief and met with a property owner who said he had footage of strangers entering his property without permission. He said multiple trespassers entered his property Nov. 4 and he found four signs missing from his property when he checked the next morning. The officer provided the man with a case number.

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Dec. 3, Live Naturally, 5337 Gulf Drive, Baker Act. An officer responded to reports of an elderly man refusing to leave upon an employee’s request. The officer found an intoxicated man laying on a bench in front of the store. The officer told the man he was trespassed but the man said he was experiencing chest pains and asked for emergency medical services, threatening suicide otherwise. The officer called EMS and placed the man under protective custody under the Baker Act. EMS transported the man to HCA Florida Blake Hospital.

HBPD polices Holmes Beach.

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

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u.S. rep. Vern Buchanan, r-Longboat Key, left, presents a Dedication and Professionalism award Dec. 7 to West manatee fire rescue District fire marshal rodney Kwiatkowski during an annual congressional fire & rescue emS award ceremony.

Kwiatkowski was one of 59 award recipients this year. islander Photo: courtesy Wmfr

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Dec. 13, 2023 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 19 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

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Page 20 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Dec. 13, 2023 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Runner sets 4 course records in return to racing

Former Pirates manager voted into hall of fame

By Kevin P. cassidy islander reporter

A skipper who walked on many a ballfield, including at Bradenton’s spring-training stadium, is set to step into hallowed halls.

The National Baseball Hall of Fame announced Dec. 3 that former Pirates manager Jim Leyland was voted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame.

Josh Rawitch, president of the hall of fame and museum, made the announcement at the Baseball Winter Meetings in Nashville, Tennessee.

The official induction ceremony will be July 21, 2024, in Cooperstown, New York.

A contemporary-era committee of hall of famers, baseball execs and media voted in Leyland.

He’ll be the 44th former player, manager or executive in the Hall of Fame who spent some of their professional careers with Pittsburgh, including Jake Beckley, Max Carey, Fred Clarke, Roberto Clemente, Barney Dreyfuss, Ralph Kiner, Bill Mazeroski, Willie Stargell, Pie Traynor, Arky Vaughan, Honus Wagner, Lloyd Waner, Paul Waner and Deacon White.

Those names will sound familiar to baseball fans and a few of the names will sound familiar to longtime islanders who remember the ballplayers’ stays or visits during spring training.

Bradenton has been the Pirates’ home for spring training since 1969 and, over the years, many Pirates have found their way to the island, including Leyland.

Former Major Leaguer Milt May and wife Brenda Boyd May, who divide their team between their Bradenton home and their Pine Avenue beach house, are longtime friends of Leyland and his wife Katie.

“Besties” is the word Brenda Boyd May used.

“Buddies” is the word used by Milt May, who coached with Leyland for 13 years for the Pirates, Marlins and Rockies.

“He was a good friend and still is,” May told The Islander Dec. 7.

He recalled them putting in long hours together at the ballpark during spring training and also seeing a

mickey Hooke crosses the finish line in second place overall Dec. 2, setting four course records at the Pinellas county Sheriff’s office ride & run with the Stars at fort De Soto Park in Pinellas county. islander Photo: courtesy Kathy Johnson

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the Pirates share the election of former manager Jim Leyland to the national Baseball Hall of fame. islander courtesy Photo

lot of each other over the years on the island.

“Basically, he did it all,” May said of Leyland’s baseball career.

Leyland managed in the big leagues for 22 seasons with the Pirates, Marlins, Rockies and Tigers, amassing 1,769 victories, six first-place finishes, three pennants and the 1997 World Series title with the Marlins.

He managed the Pirates 1986-96 and led the team to three straight appearances in the National League Championship Series, from 1990-92.

Pirates Chairman Bob Nutting said in a statement, “We take great pride in having hired Jim for his first Major League managerial post in 1986. … A longtime Pittsburgher and a true baseball man, we look forward to celebrating this historic achievement with Jim as he enters the hallowed halls in 2024.”

May said of Leyland’s election: “It’s quite an honor. I’m so happy for him. I’m really tickled to death.”

Leyland will be joined in the Hall of Fame Class of 2024 by the electees who emerge from the Baseball Writers’ Association of America voting, which will be announced Jan. 23.

overall winner with a time of 17:46.

Due to a mistake by the bike leader who missed a turn, the race turned out to be 2.6 miles rather than the normal 3.1 miles.

Being a new course, Hooke set four mens’ records, including Overall, Masters, Grandmasters and Senior Grandmasters.

Before his injury, he competed in five races with four third-place overall wins and four grandmaster and a master victory.

Welcome back and congratulations from The Islander!

in Holmes Beach got started Dec. 4 with the men’s modified-Stableford system match.

Jim Menzies earned clubhouse bragging rights for the day with a score of plus-5, a point better than second-place finisher Jeff Greiner. Third place was shared by Ron Huibers, Gary Razze, Kurt Snouffer and Quentin Talbert, who all finished at plus-3.

The women had the course to themselves Dec. 5 for their weekly nine-hole individual-low-net match in two flights. Linda Dorsey had a chipin birdie on the second hole on the way to a a 2-under-par first-place finish in Flight A. She finished one stroke ahead of second-place finishers Jenny Huibers and Sue Wheeler, KRC golf news while Nina McSparren was alone in third place at A full week of golf action at the Key Royale Club 1-over-par 33.

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He’s back on track.

Longtime Galati Yacht Sales employee and former Islander Mickey Hooke missed five months of training and the spring season due to a major plantar tear in his right heel.

After several visits to the doctor, a lot of rehab and some orthotic inserts, Hooke, 63, got back to training July 4 and resumed racing in September. cassidy His most recent competition was Dec. 2 at the 30th Annual Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office Ride & Run with the Stars on the beach at Fort De Soto Park in Pinellas County. He began the race in sixth place or so and slowly reeled in the frontrunners.

He ended up finishing second overall behind a strong female runner from Tampa, giving him the male

By Lisa neff islander editor

@ami_islander

Dec. 13, 2023 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 21 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Chilly weather brings brings on winter species for AMI anglers By capt. Danny Stasny islander reporter

With another cold front passing over Anna Maria Island, anglers are honing in on a variety of wintertime species.

On calmer days, many anglers are venturing into the Gulf of Mexico to bottom fish around the reefs, wrecks and ledges.

In these areas, a variety of species are available to anglers, includStasny ing mangrove snapper, sheepshead, Key West grunts, porgies and hogfish.

What is most appealing is all of these species are fantastic ingredients for a fish fry.

Plus, the use of live shrimp as bait is most effective, and the bait is easily attainable at any bait shop.

There’s no need to get up early to go out and throw the cast net in the cold to catch shiners and pinfish, which opens the door of simplicity to all.

Moving inshore, live shrimp are working as bait here, too. Species such as redfish, black, drum, sheepshead and pompano are susceptible to live shrimp offerings, especially in the winter.

Fishing around inshore docks, wrecks, bridges and rock piles can be effective when targeting the inshore species as they tend to gather around structure.

Jig fishing is effective over open water where deeper grass flats exist. In these areas, the pompano would be a targeted catch, but anglers also can expect to encounter spotted seatrout, ladyfish, bluefish and jack crevalle — adding a nice variety to the bite. Be prepared to find more of these fish than the pomps, which can be elusive. However, once found — locating them can require hours on the water — anglers will find the pompano are aggressive.

Also, don’t forget flounder are on the roster after a brief closure. As of Dec. 1, anglers can keep the sought-after fish as long as they are a minimum length of 14 inches. The daily bag limit is five per person, although limits are hard to find, as flounder have remained scarce since the red tide blooms hurt the fishery in the past few years. sPorts from Page 20

B with matching 1-under-par 33s, one stroke ahead of second-place finisher Terry Westby.

Jenny Huibers and Ceal Barry both birdied the sixth hole, while Gloria LaDue had a chipin on the ninth hole.

The week closed out Dec. 7 with members playing a scramble/shamble on a course modified to a par 50. The team of Joe, John and Matt Cassese and Arty Silverstone combined on a 4-under-par 46 to win the day’s proceedings.

Horseshoe news Horseshoe action at the Anna Maria City Hall pits Dec. 6 saw two teams advance to the knockout stage.

Tom Farrington and Bob Baker won the day’s championship thanks to a 21-13 victory over Bob Lee and Adin Shank. The victory was the fifth straight for Farrington, who boasts an impressive 21-1 record during the streak.

Three teams posted undefeated records during Dec. 9 pool play action with the bye going to Bob Palmer.

Bob Lee and Bob Baker advanced to the finals with a 22-13 win over Adin Shank and Gary Howcroft. In

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geoff thomasson of anna maria shows off his Dec. 5 catch, a hogfish hooked on a live shrimp about 10 miles offshore while on a guided fishing trip with capt. David White of anna maria charters.

On my Just Reel charters, I’m finding a respectable number of redfish in the back country. Fishing rocks and docks is most effective. Mixed in are black drum and sheepshead.

Moving into the Gulf of Mexico, fishing ledges is working well for a variety of fish, including mangrove snapper, sheepshead, porgies, Key West grunts and an occasional hogfish.

Capt. David White is flyfishing with clients in Tampa Bay for large jack crevalle. These fish are enjoyable on the fly due to their ferociousness when they encounter any type of movement in front of them.

Presenting a fly in front of a school of these predators typically results in a hook up as these fish cannot resist chasing down an unsuspecting bait and, being in the 10-pound range, these fish put up quite a fight on a fly rod, which is appealing to fly fishers.

Big snook are being targeted when fly fishing, although they are harder to catch as they need more

convincing than the jacks. Presenting a fly over and over again may be required, although the payoff of a hookup is rewarding to the angler.

Jim Malfese at the Rod & Reel Pier says pier fishers using shrimp as bait are getting the best results.

Using a weighted rig combined with a live shrimp and casting under the pier is yielding sheepshead, black drum and redfish. He says the black drum are the most frequent bite and most catches are in the slot of 14-24 inches. The reds are mainly in the slot of 18-27 inches, with some larger examples mixed in. As for the sheepshead, keeper sizes of 12-15 inches are the norm, with some smaller catches having to be released.

Bait schools around the pier are becoming sporadic with cooler water temps, which results in fewer catches of migratory species. Blue runners are still available and Malfese says the’re being caught on speck rigs tipped with fresh-cut pieces of shrimp.

Capt. Johnny Mattay of Anna Maria Charters is working nearshore ledges and other structure in the Gulf of Mexico, which is leading to a variety for his anglers. Hogfish are the highlight of the week, with numerous fish being caught on both live shrimp and sandfleas as bait. Other species — mangrove snapper, Key West grunts, porgies and juvenile groupers — are in the mix for Mattay’s anglers.

Also while in the Gulf, Mattay is finding some cobia around the artificial reefs. Live pinfish as bait are attracting the fish to the hook and bringing thrills to his anglers.

Moving inshore on the flats of Tampa Bay, Mattay is finding action on spotted seatrout and redfish. The spotted seatrout are taking live shiners as bait, while the reds seem to prefer an offering of live shrimp.

On warmer days — especially in the afternoons — Mattay says his clients are hooking into a few snook despite the cooler water temperatures.

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

the finals, Lee and Baker earned a 23-20, come-frombehind victory over Palmer to earn the day’s bragging rights.

Play gets underway at 9 a.m. Wednesdays and Saturdays at the Anna Maria pits. Warmups begin at 8:45 a.m., followed by random team selection.

There is no charge to play and everyone is welcome.

Center sports on tap Registration is open for adult leagues of winter flag football and indoor soccer at the Center of Anna Maria Island.

Games for both sports will be played Thursday evenings.

Adult flag football runs from Jan. 11-March 14 and the last day to register is Dec. 13. Cost is $20 for members and $130 for nonmembers.

Adult indoor soccer gets started Jan. 18. Cost is $20 for members and $110 for nonmembers. Last day to register is Dec. 15.

The center also is looking for sponsors.

For more information, call 941-778-1908.

chris chambers of Key royale in Holmes Beach gets help Dec. 4 from his guide, capt. David White, to show off his catch, a big jack crevalle that was hooked on a live pilchard.

Page 22 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Dec. 13, 2023 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Holmes Beach seeks volunteers for adopt-a-spot program By ryan Paice islander reporter

The city of Holmes Beach is looking for people to help beautify areas around the municipality.

Almost half of the 18 locations involved in the city’s Adopt-a-Spot program lacked volunteers to maintain them as of the parks and beautification committee’s Dec. 6 meeting.

The program is overseen by the P&B and allows volunteers to beautify, customize and maintain different spaces throughout the city.

Each adopted location is supervised by P&B members to ensure upkeep, but volunteers are encouraged to beautify their adopted spots with their own landscaping and plants.

However, eight of the 18 Adopt-a-Spot locations — including four previously maintained by Holmes Beach-based Stewart Landscape Management — lacked “adopters” as of Dec. 6.

Those locations include landscaped spots at: • 5300 Gulf Drive, near the Martinique condominiums; • The intersection of 56th Street and Gulf Drive; • An island on 56th Street, east of city hall, 5801 Marina Drive; • The intersection of 58th Street and Gulf Drive; • The intersections of 81st Street, Gulf Drive and

Palm Drive; • An island at the north side of the Manatee Public Beach, 4000 Gulf Drive; • Memorial Park and Boat Ramp, 6398 Marina Way; • Spring Lake Park, 6807 Holmes Blvd.

P&B member Kathryn Sandberg said she would be willing to co-adopt the spot at the Memorial Park and Boat Ramp with someone else since it was close to her home.

P&B member Mary Lange told The Islander Dec. 6 that she recommended prospective adopters seek spots near their homes, since it makes overseeing the locations more convenient.

She also recommended volunteers consider ways they can water their adopted spots, since the locations

are not irrigated.

“It’s up to the individual as to how much they want to plant,” Lange said. “It just depends on the individual and how much time and effort they want to put into it.”

Public works superintendent Sage Kamiya, the P&B chair, said volunteers can speak with the city to request certain resources, such as plants, if they needed assistance.

People interested in adopting one of the available spots can contact the city clerk’s office at 941-7085800, ext. 0, or email deputyclerk@holmesbeachfl. org.

The P&B’s next meeting will be at 10 a.m. Wednesday, Jan. 3, at city hall.

The public is welcome to attend.

Bridge Street park takes shape Benches and gravel Dec. 6 adorn the site for a planned pocket park between the Historic Bridge Street Pier and dinghy docks adjacent to the Bridgetender inn & Dockside Bar, 135 Bridge St., Bradenton Beach. manatee county tourist Development tax revenue funds are funding the project, as the park will serve as a staging area for the county’s water ferry. Plans include a pergola and a deck with tables. islander Photo: robert anderson

Funding for BB resiliency project on horizon Grant funding is in the works for a resiliency project along Bay Drive South in Bradenton Beach.

The city hired Environmental Science Associates of Sarasota last January to design the project, which involves redevelopment of the shoreline from Bridge Street to Fifth Street South with oyster bags, riprap, plantings and sand to curb erosion and secure the shoreline against storms and sea level rise.

City attorney Ricinda Perry, during a Dec. 6 community redevelopment agency meeting, said the plan is permitted and was submitted for state approval.

The city has asked the state for $1,014,664 for the project and plans to invest $500,000.

Perry said the project is ranked 15th on a list of more than 200 projects in the state.

She added that Fred Bartizal, owner of the Bridge Tender Inn Dockside Bar and Grille, would make an as yet undisclosed financial contribution as he owns a portion of the land.

She said the project must go before Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis for final approval.

the shoreline along Bay Drive South in Bradenton Beach Dec. 6. the community redevelopment agency plans a resiliency effort at the location and is seeking state funding. islander Photo: robert anderson

— robert anderson

WE ROCK ONLINE

RELEASE DATE: 12/10/2023

islander.org

New York Times Sunday Magazine Crossword

No. 1203 GROWTH SPURTS

BY ADAM WAGNER AND MICHAEL LIEBERMAN / EDITED BY WILL SHORTZ Adam Wagner, of Oakland, Calif., is a creative lead at Patreon, a monetization platform for content creators. Michael Lieberman, of Washington, D.C., is a consumer-protection lawyer at Fairmark Partners. They’re also each dads of fastgrowing toddlers, which is what inspired this puzzle. Adam sent the title to Mike, who sent back what became 3- and 13Down . . . and they were off and running. — W.S.

AC R O S S 50 Lake on the Malawi- 99 What a stiffed server 9 1982 Stevie Wonder hit Mozambique border receives 10 It’s never free of 1 Sweeties charge 100 Football rival of 5 Heaven on earth, to the 51 Subatomic particle the Brigham Young 11 Home-services 52 Release, as a trailer ancient Greeks Cougars website 54 Campus military grp.

12 International pizza 102 20-sided shape 12 Fully divests one’s chain founded in 56 ‘‘Your’’ of yore stake 104 Question of Brooklyn 57 ‘‘Monday Night introspection 13 Yao Ming, before 18 Pipsqueak Football With Peyton joining the N.B.A.?

105 Upper-left keyboard & ____’’ 19 ‘‘We’re not ready to key 14 Actress Taylor-Joy joke about this yet?’’ 58 ‘‘The results ____ . . .’’

106 Fertility-lab supply 15 Search (through) 20 Caps that lack brims 59 Japanese ‘‘yes’’ mountainous 16 Show again 21 Apt name for a 61 Showy flowers native 109 Most Caribbean nation Whirlpool salesman?

17 Blender brand to Mexico 110 Cry of faux-surprise 20 Doozy 22 Trying to get a rise 63 Thrills 112 French brothers out of 23 Detector of nonsense, 65 Political org. with 115 Reasons to wear 23 Gut informally a quadrennial socks post-vacation 25 Toymaker Rubik convention 24 Deserved 118 Resort offering that 66 Website with info 27 Language that gave 26 ‘‘Don’t believe one might include a lift about the stars us ‘‘mulligatawny’’ word ticket and ‘‘patchouli’’ of that!’’

68 Well, in both French 120 Ones catching 30 Peruvian road sign? and Spanish 28 Visibly scornful waves?

34 Spoke monotonously 69 Get by 29 Reptile with a big 121 ‘‘Impossible!’’ bite, informally 36 English philosopher 71 ‘‘Top Chef’’ judge 123 Poet Pound William of ____ Simmons 31 Surprise and delight 124 Behind 37 Go by air 73 Bother, with ‘‘at’’ 32 Slip up 125 One might improve a 38 Shirley Bassey and 75 Classic name in 33 One of the seven pupil’s performance Agatha Christie, for wafers in ‘‘Se7en’’ two 78 One who doesn’t have 126 Hurl with gusto, in 34 Agcy. that oversees Gen Z slang 39 Gloater’s words a prayer? the Secret Service 40 Photo-editing option 35 One’s natural habitat 81 Producer of sketches, 127 One of a recordsetting 3,234 for Sue 41 Midback muscle in brief 38 Sequin-covered Bird 82 Addis ____ undergarment 43 Reasons that South 128 Wraps up in fabric popularized by Lady 84 When doubled, fake American furniture 129 Some old jets, for Gaga stores have superlaugh short long lines?

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1 Pub orders 46 Musician Parks or 88 Fox-hunting shout 45 Methods Guthrie 90 Where the proverbial 2 ‘‘Autumn Song’’ poet 49 Nursery purchase 47 ____ cit. (footnote buck stops 3 Barbecue buffet 53 Historic quinoa abbr.) offering?

91 Actress Hedren cultivators 48 They’re just over two 93 Mississippi city in a 4 Princess Di or Prince, 55 Amount owed feet once Neil Simon title 58 Things like ‘‘What 5 In check 95 Marathoner’s wear do we want?’’

Online subscriptions: Today’s 96 World capital near the 6 Sound from a den ‘‘Headache relief!’’ puzzle and more Answers: 60th parallel 7 Invent the sound of ‘‘When do we want than 4,000 past puzzles, a cash register? it?’’ ‘‘Now!’’? nytimes.com/crosswords 97 How a Broadway star page 24 ($39.95 a year). might break out 8 Fall blooms 60 Best-case

77 Black-and-white 62 California cookies congresswoman Barbara 78 Italian wine region 64 Fawn’s mother 79 Flimsy 67 Affectionate squeeze 80 Where you might get of an infant’s into hot water bottom?

83 Bubble tea 70 Language suffix 87 Things that kids are 72 Altogether encouraged to break 74 Setting for many 89 Sass Gauguin works 90 Items exchanged when 76 The ____ Honors a relationship gets (annual picture-book serious awards)

92 Polynesian food 94 Access an account 98 Bit of soccer or hockey equipment 101 Nickname for a muscly Disney protagonist 103 Plucked instrument 104 Start of a famous Kennedy quote 106 Tennis’s Naomi 107 Roof toppers 108 The opposition

111 Yoga pose 112 Destinies 113 Everglades wader 114 What tickets may afford 116 Comedian Lydic of ‘‘The Daily Show’’ 117 Virtual replications, for short 119 North or south end 122 One might be spotted on a farm

Dec. 13, 2023 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 23 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Manatees on the move manatees are on the move to warmer waters in the state.

While manatees are large, they can be difficult to see in the water. according to the florida fish and Wildlife conservation commission, it is important to Look out while boating, ear polarized glasses, always give the manatees space and observe manatee protection zones. islander file Photo

By Lisa Neff

Save the manatees

It’s that time when we reflect on the past year, including the dignitaries, artists, entertainers, heroes and icons, as well as friends and family, who’ve died.

Two Floridians lost in 2023, author Tim Dorsey and singer-songwriter Jimmy Buffett, left artistic and environmental legacies.

Tim Dorsey tapped into weird neff Florida and also celebrated natural Florida in his darkly comic thrillers.

Jimmy Buffett, well, you still can feel the sun’s heat and hear the waves splash while listening to his music.

And he accomplished so much in the effort to protect manatees, cofounding the impactful Save the Manatee Club in 1981 with then-Gov. Bob Graham.

Today about 40,000 people maintain active memberships in the Longwood-based nonprofit, which raises funds with an adopt-a-manatee program for public awareness, education, research, rescue and rehabilitation in the United States and also Belize and Nigeria.

A couple of years ago, I gifted the smallest ones in my family plush manatees from the club’s gift store at savethemanatee.org.

I recently returned to the online shop to find a present for another wee one in my friends and family circle and a video on the homepage played automatically: “Hi, I’m Jimmy Buffett,” the musician said as he strummed an acoustic guitar. “Save the Manatee

Club has helped protect imperiled manatees and their aquatic habitat for decades but there’s still more work to be done.”

You said it, Jimmy.

More than 500 manatees have died in Florida in 2023.

The number is lower than in 2022, when at least 758 manatees died, and in 2021, when more than 1,000 died, but that’s because manatees experienced what the state called an “unusual mortality event” and what environmentalists called mass starvation due to pollution and habitat destruction.

And think about these numbers: Of the 323 manatees necropsied in 2023, just 82 were determined to be “natural” deaths.

Some other causes of death: • 84 died due to watercraft strikes, up from 73 in 2022.

• Flood gates or locks contributed to seven deaths, down from 13 in 2022.

• “Other human” was the reason for 13 other manatee deaths, up from 11 the year before and eight in 2021.

At least 19 manatee deaths were documented January-November in Manatee County, including six

deaths in the island area in March: • A 358-pound female manatee was recovered from Anna Maria Sound following a boat strike.

• A 280-pound female was found on the bayside in Holmes Beach. The cause of death was not determined.

• A 240-pound male was found in Sarasota Bay. The cause of death was not determined.

• A 293-pound male and a 215-pound female were recovered from Palma Sola Bay after death by natural causes.

• A 301-pound male was recovered from Cortez.

A cause of death was not determined.

Watercraft collisions also killed two manatees in June in Manatee County.

“Threats from cold weather, red tides, pollution and boat collisions continue to take their toll on the manatee, so let’s work together to safeguard the manatees and the places they call home,” Buffett said in the Save the Manatee PSA. What would Jimmy do?

“Be the friend they need” by adopting a manatee and taking action to reduce nutrient pollution in waterways, urging the restoration of the Great Florida Riverway and ending the plastic pollution crisis.

MIKE NORMAN REALTY EST. 1978

“Own Your Piece of PARADISE”

Chantelle Lewin

Beachfront 2/2 Completely Updated Condo Located in rarely available SUN PLAZA WEST

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Lynn Zemmer 941-730 941-730 941 730-1294 730-1294

941.730.1294 I Lynn@Edgewaterami.com www.EdgewaterRealEstateInc.com

CORTEZ PARK WATERFRONT 55+ COMMUNITY Just a half mile to the beaches of Anna Maria Island offering a private boat launch and “first-come” boat slips for residents. TWO separate, historic cottages available. Both adorable homes have been lovingly restored with superior amenities, modern conveniences and tasteful, turn-key furnishings. 2BR/1 BA offered at $495,000, and 1BR/1BT offered at $425,000.

Mike Norman Realty 800-367-1617 • 941-778-6696 31O1 GULF DR HOLMES BEACH www.mikenormanrealty.com sales@mikenormanrealty.com

INC

Page 24 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Dec. 13, 2023 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

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

GARAGE SALES

KIDS FOR HIRE

COUNTRY SERVER BUFFET, $100, 10-speed bike, $50. 941-356-1456.

GARAGE SALE: 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday, Dec.16. Consolidation sale, many items brand new, including Honda gas-powered pressure washer, men’s watches, PA system with microphone, portable bar, yard/beach shelter and much more. Like-new Bowflex machine, men’s sport coats/suits, lots of great bedding and accent pillows, home decor, artwork, Medeco lock-steel cabinet, many plastic totes, cut-off saw, tools, some Harley gear including like-new helmets, airplane, wine check bag/case and lots more.

Something for everyone! 415 Clark Drive, Holmes Beach.

KIDS FOR HIRE ads are FREE for up to three weeks for Island youths under 16 looking for work. Ads must be placed in person at The Islander office, 315 58th St. Suite J, Holmes Beach.

SPINET PIANO: NICE piece of furniture.

Sounds great, $250. 941-356-1456.

POOL LADDER Excellent condition, $49, chain-link gate, 45 inches by 42 inches, $39.

941-778-5542.

HOLIDAY GIFTS: EMBROIDERED hand towels, $5, beaded evening bags, $25, framed rooster embroidery, $35. 941-7790564.

PANINNI MAKER: CUISINART, stainlesssteel, like new, $45. 941-920-2494.

SPICE RACK, THREE-tier clear plastic, $20, side tables, brown with glass top, 2/$20.

941-920-2494. 941-920-2494.

Individuals may place one free ad with up to three items, each priced $100 or less, 15 words or less. FREE, one week, must be submitted online. Email classifieds@islander. org.

Sandy’s Lawn Service Inc. ESTABLISHED IN 1983

Residential & Commercial Full-service lawn maintenance.

Landscaping ~ Cleanups Hauling ~ Tree Trimming.

LICENSED & INSURED

Paradise Improvements 941.792.5600 Kitchen and Bath Remodeling Specialist Replacement Doors and Windows

Andrew Chennault

CBC 1253471

FULLY LICENSED AND INSURED Island References Lic#CBC056755

GARAGE SALE: 9 a.m.-? Friday and Saturday, Dec. 15-16. Many items for everyone including home and office. Many different collectibles. Many outdoor and indoor Christmas decorations, including lights. Too many items large and small to mention. Lots of bargains. Rain or shine, hot or cold. Held inside house and on front and back porch.

10115 Bud Rhoden Road, Palmetto.

TRANSPORTATION GOLF CART RENTALS: Fun for residents and tourists! 212-941-2402. www.GolfCartRentalAMI.com.

SEASONAL: RETIRED RN with over 20 years’ experience can assist with your family members or yourself, can provide care and skilled needs. Please, contact me for further inquiries at 973-819-2824.

SERVICES IS YOUR HOME or office in need of some cleaning? Well, I’m your girl! Local, reliable, professional! Please, give me a call or text, 941-773 -0461.

CLEANING: VACATION, CONSTRUCTION, residential, commercial and windows.

Licensed and insured. 941-756-4570.

BOATS & BOATING HAVE A BOAT and wanna catch more fish, better bait or learn the water? 50-year local fisherman, your boat, my knowledge. Captain Chris, 941-896-2915.

BICYCLE REPAIRS: Just4Fun at 5358 Gulf Drive can do most any bicycle repair at a reasonable cost. Pick-up and delivery available. 941-896-7884.

RDI CONSTRUCTION INC. References available • 941-720-7519

CAPTAIN FOR HIRE and boat caretaker services: If you need help with your boat on or off the water, call Captain Dan. USCG, retired. 772-486-8085.

BOAT FOR SALE: 21-foot Cuddy cabin with 225 Evinrude and trailer. $16,000. 941-3561456.

FISHING FUN AND FISH: Skiff rental. 24-foot Carolina skiff. Live bait and fishing equipment included upon request. Call 941-704-9382.

ANSWERS TO Dec. 13 PUZZLE

CNA: I HAVE 26-plus years’ experience under my belt. If you need help with a loved one, please, give me call. No animals! Tammy, 941-567-8499.

PRESSURE WASHING, PAVER sealing, driveway, roof, fence, pool area. Also, window cleaning. Licensed and insured. 941-5653931.

SUNCOAST BOTTOM PAINTING: Professional bottom painting. Mobile. Call 941704-9382.

Residential & Condo Renovations Kitchens • Bath • Design Service Carpentry • Flooring • Painting Commercial & Residential

HEALTH CARE

COMPANION/HOMEMAKER: Honest and reliable offering help with running errands, grocery shopping, house sitting, pet and plant care, light cooking/cleaning, transportation. References available and licensed.

Call Sherri, 941-592-4969.

API’S DRYWALL REPAIR: I look forward to servicing your drywall repair needs. Call 941524-8067 to schedule an appointment.

AIRPORT RIDES: SARASOTA, St. Pete, Tampa. Call/text, Vita, 941-376-7555.

RIDES NEAR AND Far, car transport. Based in Palmetto. 715-292-8692.

HELP WANTED

CLEAN TECH MOBILE Detailing. At your location. Cars, boats, RVs. Call or text Billie for an appointment. 941-592-3482.

HELP WANTED: EXPERIENCED hair stylist, full or part-time. A Hair Day salon.

9516 Cortez Road, W., #7, Bradenton. 941795-5227.

RIDEEASY247: a local ride service providing a professional car service to all local airports and venues. References on request.

Eamonn Fortune, 941-447-7737.

ADD THE SEA Swimwear in Holmes Beach seeks part-time retail associate. Flexible hours. Please, call 941-254-7938 or mn20@ sbcglobal.net.

NOW HIRING HANDYMAN: Full-time professional services. $18 an hour and up, based on experience. Call JayPros, 941962-2874.

HELLO! MY NAME is Jada I am a local. I am 17 and I am hoping to help you! I am looking to babysit; I love kiddos and I’m available!

Call, 941-773-0461.

PC OR TECH issues? Not sure where to start? With years of experience, I’ll come to you with reliable solutions. Contact Gavin at 928-587-1309. www.gse.codes.

FREE ... The Islander newspaper is FREE at Publix Holmes Beach. Just stop by the customer

service desk, hold out your hand and say, “Islander, please!” And maybe remind staff you’d like the serveyourself community news returned to the lobby.

Dec. 13, 2023 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 25 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

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

RENTALS Continued

REAL ESTATE

AIRPORT RIDES AND more. Call for times and place. 941-356-1456.

ANNA MARIA GULF beachfront vacation rentals. One- two- and three-bedroom units, all beachfront. www.amiparadise.com. 941778-3143.

WINNIE MCHALE, REALTOR, 941-5046146. Rosebay International Realty Inc. You need an aggressive and experienced Realtor in today’s market! Selling island homes, Sarasota and Bradenton areas. Multi-milliondollar producer! “Selling Homes - Making Dreams Come True.”

PAINTING: INTERIOR/EXTERIOR: Sarasota interior painting. Call or text Don, 941-9009398. We are the best high-end painting!

Just ask our AMI clients! I’m the owner and the painter. Free estimates. Fully insured licensed business.

U PLUS ME LLC: Provides quality coatings for pool decks, driveways, garage floors, patios. Don’t miss out on our pro polishing services, concrete, terrazzo, travertine. 727623-5050.

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

941-920-3840.

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

COLLINS LANDSCAPE LIGHTING: Outdoor lighting, landscaping, irrigation services and maintenance. 941-279-9947. MJC24373@ gmail.com.

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

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

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

JayPros. Licensed/insured. References. Call Jay, 941-962-2874.

SCREENING SERVICES: Replace your old or ripped window, door or porch screens. Many screen types available. Retired veteran here to serve our community! Free estimates, call Lane, 941-705-5293.

LOOKING FOR ANY home improvement?

JRCC Home Improvement, handyman service can get the job done. Please, contact us at 413-246-2410. We would love to help.

SOUTHWEST HOME IMPROVEMENT: Michigan builder, quality work guaranteed. Affordable, timely, within budget. Call Mike’s cell, 1-616-204-8822.

BMF INTERIORS: HOME repairs and more, no job too small. 786-318-8585.

CALL HYDRO CLEAN. Full-service pressure washing, sealing. Pavers, travertine and natural stone. Window washing too, up to three stories. Call Jacob, 941-920-2094.

RENTALS PERICO ISLAND PATIO home for rent.

3BR/2BA, 30-day minimum. Privacy fence/ gate, two miles to AMI. January, 2024 available. Now leasing May through December, 2024 Call or text, 859-771-6423.

EARLY BIRD? You can read classifieds on Tuesday at islander.org. And it’s FREE!

ANNUAL RENTAL: LOVELY Hidden Lake condo. Furnished, 3BR/2BA, one-car garage.

Clubhouse, pool, gym. Minutes to the beach.

First, last and security. Rent $3,500/month.

Wagner Realty 941-778-2246.

AVAILABLE NOW AND season: 1BR/1BA, seven-night minimum. carlesvacationrentals. com. Special rates are available. 941-8071405.

ACROSS FROM BAY: Two miles to Anna Maria. 2BR/1BA fully furnished. Available January, February, March. All utilities.

Washer/dryer. $4,500 month. Family owned.

941-773-1552.

SIX-MONTH RENTAL 2BR/2BA, Mt. Vernon, 55 and over community. Views of Sarasota Bay. Fully furnished, minutes from beaches and town. Lots of amenities. Call or text, 941-730-5645.

MONTHLY RENTAL: LOCATION 29th Street and Avenue B, Holmes Beach. 2BR/2/BA bungalow (half duplex). Five-minute walk to beach. Nice outdoor patio, no stairs, No animals. One parking spot. Available December 2023 and January 2024. Price per month, $3,900. Contact 519-807-9426.

SEASONAL RENTALS FOR upcoming season: January, 2BR/1BA modest duplex with washer and dryer in north Holmes Beach, one block to the beach, $2,400 plus tax and fees. 3BR/2BA canalfront home on the north end of Anna Maria, $6,000 plus tax and fees. January, February, March, 2BR/2BA condo at Sunbow Bay. Nicely furnished with lovely water view, $4,200 plus tax and fees. Call Green Real Estate, 941778-0455. www.greenreal.com.

WEST BRADENTON CONDO: resort lifestyle, ground-floor 2BR//2BA. Garage. 6.5 miles, 14 minutes from Gulf beaches. $264,900. Call or text, 941-7254374.

CUTE 2BR/1BA VILLA: Approximately eight miles from AMI. 55-plus for only $175,000.

Text or call, 941-228-2430 for photos. Lynda Ellinger, Realtor, Better Homes and Gardens.

BEAUTIFUL NORTHWEST NEIGHBORHOOD: Minutes to island beaches, Robinson Preserve and DeSoto Park. Upgraded 3BR/2.5BA, extra large fenced yard, no HOA fees and not flood zone. $939,000. Real Estate Mart, 941-356-1456.

EARLY DEADLINE: The Islander will be closed to observe Christmas Monday, Dec. 25. The classified ad deadline for the Dec. 27 newspaper will be noon Friday, Dec. 22.

Island Limousine and Airport Transportation

Prompt, Courteous Service U New Vehicles 941.779.0043

,IVERY )NSUREDs !IRPORT 0ERMITTED

RARE OPPORTUNITY TO rent all-inclusive executive office space in Holmes Beach.

Great frontage and advertisement visibility.

Great for realtors, contractors, accountants, lawyers, etc. Electric and water included. Two offices available. Suite 101, approximately 200 sf. $700/month $500 deposit. Suite 104, approximately 400 sf. $750/month. $500 deposit. 5386 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach.

Contact Bill at 941-746-8666.

✯ Top Notch ✯ Transportation ✯ Taxi Service

MINUTES TO BEACHES! Beautiful 2BR/2BA Pebble Springs condo, now available! Wood flooring, ceiling fans, dishwasher, large master, walk-in, lanai, carport, pool, water, cable included. Hurry! Won’t last! $1,995/ month annual. 941-713-6743.

s !-) TO 321 .......$40 ✓2EGULAR (OURS s !-) TO 4AMPA....$80 ✓8, !DD s !-) TO 0)% .........$70 ✓!LL ,UXURY #ARS s !-) TO 0'$ .......$80 ✓.EVER ,ATE /6%2 42)03 WWW 4OPNOTCHTRANSPORTATIONSERVICE COM

RENTAL: HOLMES BEACH 2BR/2BA bungalow (half duplex). Five-minute walk to beach. Nice outdoor patio, no stairs, available December 2023 and January 2024.

Contact 519-807-9426 or 403- 512-2350.

AVAILABLE FEBRUARY 2024: 4BR/2BA old Florida cottage in the heart of Anna Maria city. Completely remodeled and tastefully decorated. Last-minute cancellation. Walk to the many shops and restaurants in Anna Maria, one block to beach. $6,000 plus taxes and fees. Call Green Real Estate, 941-7780455. www.greenreal.com.

Check our Wish Book online for gifts to community organizations. islander.org

Rick Turner

Personal Driver 941.504.2894

941.718.9933

OR AFTER HOURS

s #OMMERCIAL !CCOUNTS 7ELCOME s &REE 0ICKUP $ELIVERY s 7ASH $RY &OLD s 7ASHER BROKEN 7E CAN HELP -ARINA $RIVE (OLMES "EACH

)SLAND 3HOPPING #ENTER

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ONLY LAUNDROMAT ON AMI

Page 26 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Dec. 13, 2023 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

isl

Order up roadshow ‘Best’

todd Schlemmer, left, who grew up on ami, and Jan and Billie Bechtel, snowbirds from Pennsylvania, share space Dec. 7 at minnie’s Beach cafe’s community table Dec. 7 while taking in the action during america’s Best restaurants taping of its “roadshow,” featuring minnie’s — customers, staff and owners and “good food” on location at the Holmes Beach restaurant. islander Photos: toni Lyon

biz BB CRA puts tram into park By robert anderson islander reporter

The Bradenton Beach Community Redevelopment Agency voted Dec. 6 to terminate the Old Town Tram.

CRA members were following up on their September promise to reevaluate the tram contract, which began in 2020 and was meant to shuttle people between parking lots at Coquina and Cortez beaches and the CRA district, where parking is limited.

The district, bordered by Cortez Road, Sarasota Bay, Fifth Street South and the Gulf of Mexico, was deemed blighted in 1992, allowing for incremental tax revenue to promote restoration and growth.

The service, operated by EZ Parking Group, consists of two free-to-ride shuttles funded by the CRA. The long-term goal, as outlined by the CRA board — the commission, mayor, restaurateur Ed Chiles and Bradenton Beach resident David Bell — was for the tram to pay for its operation with advertising funds.

In September, the CRA determined there was not enough advertising to fund two vehicles and budgeted $10,000 to carry the service through the year.

Mayor John Chappie encouraged EZ Parking owner Josh LaRose Dec. 6 to continue with the service privately.

Mike Norman Realty INC OFFERING THE BEST SELECTION OF SALES & RENTALS ON ANNA MARIA ISLAND SINCE 1978 www.mikenormanrealty.com 31o1 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach 800-367-1617 | 941-778-6696

EXCLUSIVE

LUXURY

VACATION HOMES

Kathy Smart, left, gives a food order at the window in minnie’s Beach cafe to chef mary Doub. the pair are owners of the cafe.

LaRose said advertising might generate enough money for the operation of one tram.

Commissioner Jake Spooner, a Bridge Street business owner, thanked LaRose for his efforts.

Commissioner Jan Vosburgh motioned to cease the tram contract Dec. 31 and was seconded by Chappie.

The motion passed by a vote of 6-0. Chiles was absent with excuse. Commissioner Marilyn Maro attended the meeting by phone.

The Islander reached out to LaRose by phone Dec. 6 to inquire about his plans for the tram but, as of press time Dec. 12, he did not respond.

The next CRA meeting will be at 9:30 a.m., Wednesday, Jan. 3, at city hall, 107 Gulf Drive N.

Business news Does your business

celebrate achievements? Maybe you’re new in business? Submit information to news@islander.org.

Once Upon A Beach VACATION RENTALS - 941.584.5844

PERSONALIZED CARE & ATTENTION EXCEPTIONAL SERVICE ONE-OF-A-KIND EXPERIENCE LOCAL EXPERT TEAM & CONCIERGE

Jacalyn mains, host of america’s Best restaurants, prepares to shoot a segment of “roadshow” Dec. 7 at minnie’s Beach cafe in Holmes Beach.

BizCal By Lisa neff

THIS WEEK Thursday, Dec. 14 11:30 a.m. — Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce luncheon, Kiwi Style Fish and Chips, 3608 E. Bay Drive, Holmes Beach.

Fee applies. Information: 941-778-1541.

Thursday, Dec. 14 5-7 p.m. — AMI Chamber business card exchange with the Anna Maria Island Privateers at the chamber, 5313 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. Fee applies. Information: 941-778-1541.

Monday, Dec. 18 7:30 a.m. — Pancakes and Politics with the Manatee Chamber of Commerce, Pier 22, 1200 First Ave. W., Bradenton, Bradenton.

Fee applies. Information: 941-748-3411.

T hinking about what

is best for your rental property? If so, choose QUALITY over quantity, and get in touch with us!

WE CARE ABOUT EACH HOME AS OUR OWN AND EACH GUEST AS IF THEY WERE FAMILY

@ONCEUPONABEACHAMI

ONCEUPONABEACHAMI.COM

3340 E. Bay Drive, HB Office 941 462 4016

Dec. 13, 2023 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 27 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Queen tribute band a sell-out, brings ‘A Kind of Magic’ to AMI

Singer rick rock channels freddy mercury in the tribute band Simply Queen as the crowd gazes on Dec. 9 at the center of anna maria island. the canadian-formed band has entertained audiences in florida before but this event marks a first performance on anna maria island.

the Simply Queen tribute band performs for a soldout crowd Dec. 9 in the gym at the center of anna maria island, 407 magnolia ave., anna maria. the concert marked the start of the 2023-24 Bradenton area convention and Visitor Bureau concert series at the center, now in its fifth year. islander Photos: robyn murrell

Left: Local entertainers Justin Layman and James Hershey warm up the audience Dec. 9 at the center of anna maria island in anna maria. the duo opened for a Queen tribute band, captivating the crowd with a mix of covers and an original song that left the audience cheering and eager for the headliners to take the stage.

New Price!

Your Anna Maria Oasis!

104 Pelican Drive, Anna Maria 3 BD | 2 BA 1925 SF $2,265,000 Welcome to your sanctuary on coveted Anna Maria Island! This pristine canal home has been lovingly maintained and offers all you could ask for in the heart of Anna Maria. Offering fabulous rental potential, this is the perfect place for your next chapter!

Welcome to Beach Dance!

3107 Gulf Drive 5 BD 7 BA 2478 SF $3,350,000 This dreamy property is only steps away from the sugary sand beaches of Anna Maria Island, trolley stops, ice cream shops, and a plethora of wonderful local restaurants. Fabulous for entertaining, this gem offers a spacious open concept design with three balconies and stunning Gulf views. Enjoy yourself or rent weekly for a fabulous return!

Becky Sirigotis Principal Real Estate Advisor

Curated Lifestyles. Concierge Service.

M: 941.201.8000

Call me today for more information!

becky@amihomes.com AMIHomes.com

Compass is a licensed real estate broker. All material is intended for informational purposes only and is compiled from sources deemed reliable but is subject to errors, omissions, changes in price, condition, sale, or withdrawal without notice. No statement is made as to the accuracy of any description or measurements (including square footage). This is not intended to solicit property already listed. No financial or legal advice provided. Equal Housing Opportunity. Photos may be virtually staged or digitally enhanced and may not reflect actual property conditions.

Page 28 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Dec. 13, 2023 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................