The Islander Newspaper E-Edition: Wednesday, Dec. 18, 2024
Sounds great!
Trevor Bystrom, center, is joined on the Fogartyville stage by Pater Mawanga, left, who arrived for the gig from Malawi, Aftica, and Percy Abain, who came last year from cameroon, Africa.
Trevor is an Anna Maria Island native who celebrates music. He was invited to perform in the Fogartyville Songwriter Series and it was perfect timing for the trio. Bystrom and Mawanga recorded a vinyl record remotely in 2021, and this dec. 9 show was their first in-person meeting. Fogartyville community Media and Arts center is at 525 Kumquat court in Sarasota. Look for more online: islander.org. Islander courtesy Photo
First meeting
Awesome detail
Layla White, 8, a second-grader at Anna Maria elementary School, shows off her STeAM night contribution dec. 11, a very life-like diorama showing a cutaway of a sea turtle nest as the hatchlings emerge on the beach on a moonlit night. Islander courtesy Photos: david “dad” White
LeFT: Junie Presswood, 2, meets the Anna Maria Island Privateers dec. 14 at the Florida Maritime Museum’s christmas in cortez, where they greeted her on “her level.” RIGHT: event volunteer danielle Fisher gives elizabeth Mccullough, 12, a Grinch face. Islander Photos: Bonner Joy
Layla takes in information from Mote Marine Laboratory staff member emmanuel Perry dec. 11 at STeAM/Literacy Night at the school. Perry is showing off a shark jaw and sharing information from Mote scientists about sharks — and Layla is “all in for nature,” according to dad, fishing guide david White.
Santa welcomes children dec. 14 at christmas in cortez. Islander courtesy Photo
What’s
In Anna Maria, inspections of the city pier, both above and below water, were to begin Dec. 13, according to Mayor Mark Short.
However, the work has been delayed aweek due to the winds and wave action coming off Tampa Bay. “We still expect that process to be completed before the end of December.”
Short also reported that on or about Jan. 6, a barge will be brought in to perform the geotechnical inspection for the footprint of the new walkway. That process is expected to be completed, weather permitting, in five to six weeks.
On Dec. 12, the Anna Maria city commission approved an ordinance prohibiting overnight camping and sleeping in public to accommodate a recent state law on the topic.
Also at the Dec. 12 commission meeting, the sheriff’s department presented a plaque to Dan Murphy recognizing his 10 years as mayor and his work with
the sheriff’s office during that time.
A temporary pier to provide docking service for the Gulf Islands Ferry is almost complete and the city aniticipates regular ferry service will be restored to the city once it is done.
The city is accepting applications for an open commission seat, due to the resignation of then-Commissioner Jonathan Crane in November.
The deadline to submit an application is Dec. 20.
A public forum will be held at 6 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 7, 2025, at city hall for the candidates where they will be asked to address questions submitted by residents and others.
The commission will then vote Jan. 9 on a new member to the commission.
The city also is accepting applications for open seats on its planning and zoning board.
Mayor Mark Short reported Dec. 7 that city this past week focused on the following, “some items more
Yes, arts and crafts are “back” on AMI
Blue Ribbon Events announced its first art show of the season — after three canceled events due to hurricanes — will be 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Dec. 27-28, at Roser Church in Anna Maria.
While City Pier Park is serving as a U.S. Postal Service office, operating in a trailer, and a staging ground for the pier repairs, the art and crafts show is now set for the waterfront parking lot and lawns at Roser Memorial Community Church on Pine Avenue.
Admission and parking are free.
The event will include painters, wood workers, quirky yard art, jewelry, beachy items, potter, upcycled art and many other handmade creations.
Patrons are asked to support the Roser Food Pantry with donations of canned or non-perishable foods.
Additionally, the event organizers have set aside an area for local businesses to participate for free with a booth in its AMILocal section where they can hand out menus or brochures, sell gift cards and visit with
their art patrons.
Owner Daniele Lynch asks Anna Maria Island or Cortez businesses or chamber members to call her at 231-350-8277 to reserve a spot.
Meanwhile, Blue Ribbon’s Community Coffee corner will brew up fresh, free coffee each day until noon. Stop by for a cup over a chat with your neighbors.
Lynch says her events are popular because there’s something for everyone — handcrafted and unique items — in all price ranges.
Come for the art, stay for the fun, is her mantra.
Lynch emphasized that “the last few months’ challenges have made us realize that community is even more important in trying times. Those challenges someti mes become more manageable when shared with others.”
Applications are being accepted for seven other island events at daniellesblueribbonevents.com
▼ Modern Chop Happy Hour 11:30-6 Light Bite Specials 4-6, lounge only.
▲ Martini Monday: Signature Martinis, $7, plus 1/2 price lite bites -- lounge only.
▼ Tuesday: $3 Tacos and Margaritas 4-9, lounge only.
▲ Wine Down Wednesday, 5O% OFF Wines by the Glass
▼ Live Maine Lobster Thursdays, plus Happy Hour all nite in the lounge.
news worthy than others:”
Decorating took place in the park around the Historical Museum as the city prepared for the arrival of Santa on Saturday Dec. 14 and a return visit Dec. 21.
Short also reported the status with the city’s engineers on the timeline and schedule for Phase 1 of the city pier restoration. “At this time, we’re progressing according to plan.”
The mayor noted a focus on city recovery from the September-October hurricanes, including completion of right-of-way debris removal, road repairs and repairs of stormwater drains. He says the city now has turned its attention to clearing and cleaning lesser-used beach access points and rights of way between streets and swales.
Short noted it’s not exciting news, but “all critical as we push to getting back to normal.”
Holmes Beach Mayor Judy Titsworth reported Dec. 7 that the city finished debris pickup. “This was accomplished in just a little over seven weeks post Milton.
She noted the building department is still providing no-fee permits for storm recovery work and permits are being processed in a matter of days. Also, the department is still opening to the public on Saturdays.
She said beach sand is still being hauled to Coquina Beach in the wake of the storms, and plans are underway to host a community Christmas party Dec. 20 outside city hall in the park adjacent to the library with Santa on hand for visits with kids and lots of gift giveaways.
Everyone is welcome and everything at the party will be free, thanks to numerous generous sponsors. There was no response to The Islander emails to Bradenton Beach Mayor John Chappie and no report from the city.
Click! The Islander welcomes news of the milestones in readers’ lives. Send notices — along with contact info — to news@islander.org.
Utility project on Cortez Bridge goes ‘round-the-clock’
Tina Allen, community outreach representative for the Cortez Bridge Utility Relocation Project, announced Dec. 12, that the project is entering a new phase the week of Dec. 16 which will continue through the month of December.
The new phase of construction requires the installation process to proceed around the clock to avoid the risk of the installation “path” closing or becoming obstructed. They also hope to avoid having the reaming equipment “stuck mid-path” by continuing 24-hour operations until reaming of the pilot hole and pulling the fused pipe through the intracoastal crossing is complete.
At both the west and east ends of the bridge, the
HB public works winds down debris work
Sage Kamiya, Holmes Beach superintendent of public works/city engineer, reported Dec. 13 that debris removal in the wake of Hurricanes Helene and Milton is expected to be finish over the Dec. 14-15 weekend.
He noted that 22,652.10 cubic yards or 892 truckloads of vegetative debris were completed last week; 65,932.40 CY or 2,672 loads of construction and demolition debris were completed last week; and 38,336.50 CY or 1,798 loads of sand have been removed.
A total of 126,921.00 CY of debris has been removed from the roadways within the city.
Kamiya said staff will continue to work on rights of way, hand-clearing small debris and working with local fisherman on picking up canal debris.
County contractors are removing waterway debris outside the canals.
The next step will be to start grinding the vegetative debris at city field and finish by Mid-January.
Repairs for roadways, storm structures, signs, sidewalks, etc. will continue for several months.
Waste removal is back to normal with WastePro.
More information can be obtained from city code compliance at 941-708-5800.
contractor will be fusing pipes in prepration for the pipe installation.
Also, with the reaming equipment, the contractor will begin enlaring the newly drilled pilot hole, subsequently pulling the pipe back through the path.
On Dec. 16 and Dec. 17, after press time for The Islander, the contractor will be transporting pipes on Cortez Road West and staging materials behind a temporary barrier wall in the right of way on the south side of Cortez Road, east of the bridge.
East- and westbound traffic lanes will remain open with intermittent flagging operations between 124th
Street West and 123rd Street Court West.
Motorists and neighbors of the project are asked to remain mindful of construction vehicles and crews and activities in the construction zone, including loud noise from equipment, backup alarms and verbal communications from the crews.
There also will be stationary lights in place and bright lights from construction equipment and vehicles in the work zone.
For more information, contact Tina Allen, community outreach representative for the project, at 941306-4660 or info@amiprojects.io.
Volunteers wanted for TDC
Manatee County is seeking applicants to fill two openings on its nine-member Tourist Development Council.
The TDC makes recommendations to the Board of County Commissioners concerning the effective operation of projects in its tourist development plan and budgeting for the tourism tax revenues.
The TDC marketing plan for fiscal year 2024-25 is almost $13M.
Of the two openings, one must be an elected municipal official from Palmetto, Bradenton Beach, Holmes Beach, Anna Maria or Longboat Key. The other open position will be filled with a member who must be an owner/operator (general manager) of a motel, hotel, recreational vehicle park or other short-term accommodations in Manatee County that is subject to the 6% resort tax.
Applicants must be registered voters in Manatee County and the term length is four years.
Applications, which can be found at mymanatee. org/advisoryboards, are due Dec. 20.
According to Keenan Singleton, communications manager with the Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau, the tourism office of the TDC, in an email Dec. 4 to The Islander, the positions on the TDC are being vacated are those of Shirley Bryant and Ed Chiles.
She indicated that Elliott Falcione, executive director of the BACVB “will likely bring the appointments to the BOCC Jan. 14 or Jan. 28.
The TDC meets on the third or second Monday every other month at 9 or 9:30 a.m. at varying locations throughout Manatee County.
For more information on the TDC or the open positions, contact Leanne Keeling of the BACVB at Leanne.Keeling@BACVB.com or 941-729-9177, ext. 3944.
Roser Church welcomes all denominations to its Christmas Eve Family Service. The 2023 service included Pastor Dirk Rodgers, left, and Craig Ramberger, director of music ministries leading singing on the outdoor stage. Islander Courtesy Photo
Piney Point settlement: a historic win for Tampa Bay
As 2024 ends, we reflect on a major milestone in protecting Florida’s waters: securing stronger Clean Water Act protections for the Piney Point phosphate facility.
After decades of neglect and mismanagement, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection has committed to enforceable pollution limits and independent monitoring, closing a troubling chapter of regulatory inaction.
“This new permit is long overdue,” said Abbey Tyrna, executive director of Suncoast Waterkeeper. “It addresses the legacy of pollution while setting a higher standard for Tampa Bay’s water quality.”
This achievement was made possible through legal action by Suncoast Waterkeeper, Tampa Bay Water-
keeper, the Center for Biological Diversity, ManaSota-88, and Our Children’s Earth Foundation.
It marks a critical step forward, but as Dr. Tyrna noted, “Suncoast Waterkeeper and our partners have stepped up to enforce the laws that the state should have been upholding all along. There is still so much work to be done and to clean up after this disaster and the responsibility to protect our waters needs to be shared between the state and the community.”
As we move into 2025, the Piney Point settlement reminds us of the power of community and legal action in holding polluters accountable. Together, we’ve proven that change is possible — and that it’s worth fighting for.
— Suncoast Waterkeeper
FWC red tide reporting
Over the past week, the red tide organism Karenia brevis was detected in bloom concentrations of more than 100,000 cells/liter were in 25 samples: one from Pinellas County, 15 in Sarasota County, one from Hillsborough County, six from Lee County and two offshore of Collier County.
K. brevis was observed at background in background to low concentrations in Manatee County.
Fish kills suspected to be related to red tide were reported to FWC’s Fish Kill Hotline and other partners over the past week along Pinellas, Sarasota, Lee and Collier counties.
Respiratory irritation suspected to be related to red tide was reported over the past week in Pinellas, Sarasota, Lee and Collier counties.
For forecasts that use FWC and partner data, visit the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Gulf of Mexico Harmful Algal Blooms Forecast
Forecasts by the USF-FWC Collaboration for Prediction of Red Tides for Pinellas County to northern Monroe County predict variable movement of surface and subsurface waters over the next 3.5 days.
For more information on harmful algal blooms and water quality, visit Protecting Florida Together
The FWRI HAB group in conjunction with Mote Marine Laboratory now have a facebook page, including interesting facts on red tide and other harmful algal blooms in Florida.
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Changing lives
Christine Olson has a mission.
And she’s taken great strides toward her goal in the past 18 years since her daughter, then 18, was killed in a motorcycle crash.
On Nov. 6, she accepted the key to the city of Bradenton from Mayor Gene Brown.
The presentation recognized Tiffs Initiative, a drive to register emergency contact information with Tiff, To In Families First during the week of Oct. 14-19 every year.
Also at the city meeting, Manatee County Sheriff Rick Wells endorsed Tiff, urging people to register emergency contacts with the Florida system.
Olson and other family members worked for many years at the Rod & Reel Pier in Anna Maria and first brought her crusade to The Islander and then-Florida Rep. Bill Galvano of Bradenton.
Olson said, “Now in my 18th year since it all began — stemming from an accident and drunk driver that took my daughter, Tiffiany Marie Olson’s life — I pursue the goal of taking this resource to every person in our United States and to all law enforcement to equip them with this much needed resource and tool.”
Olson now has inspired over 20 million registered members in Florida and 18 other states.
To learn more about Tiff, contact Olson at 941795-1869 or Christine@helptiff.org
“Anna Maria Island,” a signed pictorial history book of the island by Bonner Joy, is available for $20 at Island Mail & Print, 3230 east Bay drive, Holmes Beach, or by mail. Visit islander.org or call 941-778-7978. $20 plus postage, if mail order.
Is your business ready to make the most of a new season?
Improve your odds of success with Islander newspaper readers looking to shop and dine, seeking indoor and outdoor fun, and a place to stay for their next visit. Call or text 941-778-7978.
christine Olson accepts the key to the city of Bradenton Nov. 6 from Mayor Gene Brown. Islander courtesy Photo
Time runs out …
Time is ticking away and I’ve not yet really begun my Christmas shopping.
I spent a few minutes at a big box store on Sunday, but it was unnerving. By the time I reached check-out I was ready to scream and run.
I felt super sorry for the folks working there — who were short in number and long on patience, from what I saw.
Over in the “bike area,” I found parents shopping with kids who sympathized. One woman and her daughter were there for nearly the same purpose as me — she was shopping for a bike to give to the Salvation Army and I was there to buy a donation to the Holmes Beach Christmas party.
Almost everything was out of reach on a tall rack or stacked high on shelves, but we finally found help.
I recalled a year when I shopped with officers from the Holmes Beach Police Department and we had loads of help, but this year is different.
It’s hard to get in the mood of shopping — even for family — when what you’re really thinking about is how many people need homes and basic household items. A place to put their heads at night.
This Christmas, we’re still reeling from the back side of two hurricanes.
How do we get in the holiday spirit?
Where do we go to find holiday spirit when more than half the stores in the Holmes Beach downtown area are still closed and we know some of the owners and employees are struggling.
I can tell you that for me, the search begins with my sweet little great-granddaughter, just 2 years and a few months old, and Christmas in her eyes is BIG. By chance, we visited Danny’s Pizzeria in NW Bradenton, not really expecting much more than pizza — she just discovered she likes it!
Well — it was all I could ask for. She loved it. She lit up when we went in the door and she saw Christmas lights strung on the arch in the dining room and bar. And then, she saw the tree — beautifully decorated and lit — and squeals of excitement were accented with “Miss Muss, Miss Muss!” (Translation: Christmas!)
She spent her time waiting for the pizza by greeting everyone she could and hugging a Christmas tree decoration on the table. My little Junie doesn’t even know yet that presents are involved in “Miss Muss.”
Now I’m looking forward to Christmas morning with my granddaughter Josey and GGB, Junie.
I wonder what Santa will bring.
It won’t matter that I didn’t shop much, because it’s gonna be another beautiful holiday — together. — Bonner Joy, news@islander.org
OpinionYour
Thank you
During the tragedies that were Hurricanes Helene and Milton, there were many teams of helpers that were hired to pick up our precious memories that we had to place at our curbside. Most crews did a marvelous job, but one pair went above and beyond what they were paid to do.
Not only did Andrew and Carl pick up the accumulated debris, but my surveillance cameras showed them sweeping my driveway and the street in front of my house.
well as prominent organizations in our community that were also affected and saw their popular annual events canceled. This year, the AMI Privateers and the Cortez Cultural Center joined us for our holiday celebration.
We would also like to express our heartfelt thanks to our valued partners and sponsors who are helping to make Christmas in Cortez shine a little brighter this year: The Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau and The Islander. Their support has been instrumental in making this event possible, and we are deeply grateful for their contributions.
▼ Publisher, editor Bonner Joy, news@islander.org
▼ Editorial Joe Bird, editorial cartoonist Kevin cassidy, kevin@islander.org
Not only did they do this once, they did this several more times and I learned their company did not pay them for their extra efforts.
Some residents complained when the trash trucks got too close to their property, while most of us were very grateful.
In the spirit of this Christmas season, I’m offering this GoFundMe account to reward these two.
https://gofund.me/df46af8b
Thank you, Merry Christmas and God Bless!
Bruce Birkman, Holmes Beach
To friends of FMM
As we approach the end of 2024, we want to take a moment to reflect on the year and express our deepest gratitude to you. This year has been one of both challenges and triumphs, and your unwavering support has been a beacon of hope for us through it all.
In the midst of an unpredictable hurricane season, we were hit by Hurricane Helene, which left a significant impact on our community. Just as we began to recover, Hurricane Milton followed shortly after, bringing additional challenges to Cortez. The storms tested our resilience, but they also highlighted the power of community and the kindness of so many.
We’ll be celebrating that resilience with Christmas in Cortez, a free family event Dec. 14 at the museum, bringing together families impacted by the storms, as
As we look ahead to 2025, we do so with renewed hope and determination. Member support has been a guiding light in our work, and we are profoundly grateful for your trust. We are so thankful for your commitment to the Florida Maritime Museum, Cortez, and Florida’s fishing and maritime heritage.
While the museum remains closed for structural rehabilitation, all events will continue as planned. Your commitment to our mission during this time is greatly appreciated.
As we celebrate the holidays and the close of another year, we want to wish you and your loved ones a season filled with peace, joy, and good health. May the coming year bring you continued happiness, and may you feel the warmth and gratitude of those whose lives you’ve touched through your generosity. If you were impacted by the hurricanes, we wish you strength and resilience to continue your recovery into 2025.
From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for being such an important part of our community.
Wishing you the happiest of holidays and a bright, prosperous New Year!
Karen Bell, president, Friends of the Florida Maritime Museum
Anthony’s wishes you and yours a happy and safe holiday season! As we say goodbye to 2024 we are grateful to all of you for your business and your trust! We hope that 2025 brings you all the happiness and blessings you desire! www.AnthonysAirConditioning.com
HOLIDAY CELEBRATION
COME SEE THE HOLIDAY DISPLAY OF TREE DECORATIONS
HOLIDAY CELEBRATION
COME SEE THE HOLIDAY DISPLAY OF TREE DECORATIONS
When: Saturday, December 14 and December 21 11:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.
Where: Gulf Dr., Pine Ave. and South Bay Blvd. City of Anna Maria
When: Saturday, December 14 and December 21 11:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.
Special Guest: Santa Claus December 14 & December 21 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Where: Gulf Dr., Pine Ave. and South Bay Blvd. City of Anna Maria
Special Guest: Santa Claus December 14 & December 21 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Anna Maria Historical Museum 404 Pine Ave. Anna Maria, FL 34216
Anna Maria Historical Museum 404 Pine Ave. Anna Maria, FL 34216
Please come out and support your local businesses for the Holidays.
For more details visit: www.cityofannamaria.com
Please come out and support your local businesses for the Holidays.
For more details visit: www.cityofannamaria.com
‘Devinne’ plans
There’s no doubt the community center in Anna Maria has been abuzz with activity since two hurricanes washed ashore and blew through the island in September and October.
The Center of Anna Maria Island has lived up to its name as a hub for the three cities — this time for recovery and refuge — coordinating volunteer cleanups, housing the School for Constructive Play and hosting a community Thanksgiving dinner — and staff continues to take on projects.
Now comes “Miss Devinne” Whittaker, owner of the DBTB Juice Bar — Devs Bevs — and Bakery at the center.
Whittaker and her partner, chef/co-owner Ted Louloudes have been at the center for three years and only opened the cafe there a few months ago.
But they’ve got more going on.
Whittaker is hoping to move the city of Anna Maria’s farmers market to the center on Tuesdays starting in January. The market, previously staged at City Pier Park, lost its space to the U.S. Postal Service, which is operating out of a trailer at the park until its facility across Pine Avenue can be restored.
It’s a win-win all around. The market will continue.
The center will be bustling on Tuesdays. And thanks to Whittaker, patrons who relied on the market for food shopping or a visit with folks from Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring will have a place to go.
There is still final approval to come from city commissioner’s at their Jan. 9, 2025, meeting, which, assuming the city OKs the partnership, would put the first market Jan. 14, 2025, at the center, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria, and subsequent Tuesdays through May 27.
Back to School? Time for a checkup!
Jamie Lawson O.D., Kenneth Lawson O.D. 5632 26th St. W., Bradenton 941.751.4668, BayshoreEyeCare.net
For more information on Whittaker’s businesses, call 941-713-4375. To reach the center, call 941-778-1908. For city hall and market info, call 941-708-6130.
Tiki & Kitty’s
Tiki and Kitty are leading the way to their favorite shops and boutiques to find unique vintage gifts for under the Christmas tree.
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 vintage, upcycled, shabby chic and artsy vendors. You won’t be disappointed.
T&K love Cat’s Meow, an 8,000 square-foot marketplace! Their vendors offer coastal, cottage, beach, antique, boho, midcentury modern and other home decor styles. They also offer vintage to fine jewelry and vintage albums.
You might want to lace up your skates, as this large, former skating rink has plenty to offer bargain hunters and anyone seeking antiques and unique decor. You don’t want to miss this collection.
We’ll definitely make a stop next door 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.
We promise, you will find treasures aplenty.
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.
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.”
“Miss devinne” Whittaker and Ted Louloudes of dBTB Juice Bar and Bakery.
Heiko Knipfelberg works on chopping and stumpgrinding the remains of a large felled tree, the result of the hurricanes that hit Anna Maria Island in September and October, at the Island Players playhouse. Knipfelberg is directing the next stage production, “Birthday Suite,” which opens Jan. 9, but he also pitched in on clean up after the hurricanes. The box office is set to open Jan. 2 for “Birthday Suite.” Islander courtesy Photo: Sue George
Islander archive? Look online at ufdc.ufl.edu.
Time
out for lunch
These busy members of the Off Stage Ladies are taking time out dec. 11 from fundraising, ushering, helping back stage at the Island Players with props, lighting, costumes and providing Sunday supper during rehearsals. Since 1961, they have raised money to coproduce Island Players plays and help offset costs. They socialized at Scarpino’s classic Italian restaurant in Bradenton. For information on membership, contact Roe duncan, 941-932-2798 or roeduncan@gmail.com. Islander courtesy Photo: Sylvia Marnie
Celebrating Christmas Eve at Roser
Everyone is invited to join the faithful at 4 p.m. Dec. 24 … family, friends and neighbors! Roser Church has planned three unique Christmas celebrations.
Children’s Service Outdoors on the Water: This service features a Nativity pageant in which all children are invited to participate. It is especially for families, but everyone is welcome.
There will be singing of carols, special music and a message from Pastor Dirk Rodgers titled “Hope Reborn – A New Family.”
All children will receive a gift. This event will be held on the outdoor stage just north of Roser’s sanctuary.
Parking will be at the thrift shop or by fellowship hall.
Please, bring lawn chairs or blankets for seating.
Two Traditional Candlelight Services in the Sanctuary: The Roser Sanctuary is beautifully decorated for Christmas and each person that attends either the 7 or 9 p.m. Dec. 24 services will receive a candle.
At the end of each service, the lights will be turned down and the candles of those on the center aisle will be lit and they will then light the candle of the person next to them and, as the light passes through the sanctuary, it will symbolize the spreading of the Light of Christ.
At the 7 p.m. service, we will enjoy special music by the Chancel Choir and Roser Ringer’s Handbell Choir. At both services we will sing Christmas carols interspersed with Scripture readings and a message from Pastor Rodgers titled “Hope Reborn – A New Family.” The service will be streamed online and available to watch later on the Roser Church YouTube channel. (youtube.com/c/RoserChurch).
Roser Church is at 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria.
For more information, call the church offi ce at 941-778-0414, go to roserchurch.com or Facebook @roserchurch.
— Bev Hunsberger, communications specialist
Center announces legacy — matching grant
The Center of Anna Maria Island has announced a fundraiser in memory of Chuck Lester. Charles lester died in April. But, for almost 50 years, he touched the lives of many Anna Maria island residents.
The Center and the island community will be forever grateful for the lifetime support of Chuck and Joey Lester.
They created a legacy of giving on Anna Maria island and in Wisconsin, which is unparalleled. Their legacy will live on forever at the Center through the AMICC endowment fund, which was established with the generous support of Chuck and Joey Lester’s unrivaled philanthropy and guided by their wisdom.
This week, we reflect on the impact of that legacy and the strength it has given to the community center.
Your support for their matching fund allows us to provide a range of youth social skills coaching, adult outings and sports leagues, all working to make a difference in the lives of people of all ages.
Joey Lester has generously provided $50,000 in matching funds to help us reach this year’s fundraising goal.
By adding a leaf to the center’s Legacy Tree, you honor the Lesters and help ensure the center’s resources remain available for generations to come. center fundraiser honors charles ‘chuck’ Lester
Obituary
William ‘Corky’ Parker
William “Corky” Parker, 68, of Anna Maria, died Dec. 7., having lost his battle with cancer.
He was born July 8, 1956, and raised in Bradenton, spending his adult life raising his family on Anna Maria Island. He loved sports, the outdoors, and spending time around the water with his family.
He owned and operated his own plumbing company with son Chase.
To his family and friends to say he was “one of a kind,” doesn’t scratch the surface of what a special man he was.
He will be forever loved and missed.
Women’s Guild makes annual gift Members of the Roser church Women’s Guild, Margo Kingsley, left, Barbara dohner and Peggy Buck present $1,250 for the chuck and Joey Lester fund drive to Jullian Ptak of the center of Anna Maria Island. With the proceeds from the Thrift Shop — managed by the Guild — the guild is able to contribute to the community. Islander courtesy Photo: Morgan Blackburn/cofAMI
Brown & Sons Funeral Homes & Crematory 43rd Street Chapel in Bradenton is in charge of arrangements. Condolences may be made at brownandsonsfuneral.com.
Mr. Parker is survived by his wife of 44 years, Brenda, children Brittany Moore and husband Austin, and Chase and Tierney Green, granddaughter Summer Moore, sisters Debbie Ibasfalean, Sue Clark and Patti Johnson, as well as many nieces and nephews, and grand-nieces and nephews.
William ‘Corky’ Parker
Adult soccer heads to playoffs, horseshoe walkers win
By Kevin P. Cassidy Islander Reporter
Heavy rains during the day made the pitch unplayable Dec. 11 at the Center of Anna Maria Island, forcing an adult soccer match to be rescheduled to Dec. 12, which pushed two of the playoff games to Dec. 19.
The first play-in game Dec. 12 saw No. 10 seed Sato Real Estate cruise to a 6-2 victory over No. 7 Language Services Associates behind two goals each from Josh Sato and Logan O’Brien. Justin Fields and Ben Sato each added a goal for Sato, which also received an incredible 21 saves to help preserve the victory.
Juan Rodriguez scored a pair of goals for Language Services, which also received eight saves from James Rodriguez in the loss.
The second of the play-in games Dec. 12 saw No. 9 Gulf Drive Cafe edge No. 8 Hampton Painting 4-3 to advance to the playoffs. Helio Gomez led the cafe team with three goals and an assist. Ted Hurst added a goal and Tuna McCracken made eights saves for Gulf Drive in the victory.
Kali Richardson, Moises Martinez and Ethan Hampton each scored a goal for Hampton Painting, which also received five saves from Lucan Lubore in the loss.
No. 6 Moss Builders upset No. 3 Pool America in a playoff game Dec. 12 with a penalty-kick shootout after the teams battled to a 2-2 tie in regulation. Stephen Adair and Greg Moss each scored a goal for Moss, while Christopher Klotz and Lucas Wilson scored for Pool America. Ryan Moss made eight saves for Moss, while Robb Marshall made seven saves for Pool America in the loss.
The second playoff game of the night saw No. 4 Bubble Binz cruise to a 5-2 victory over No. 5 AMI Dolphin Tours. Goalie Mark Long had a big game for Bubble Binz, scoring two goals and notching four saves. Matt Staggs added a pair of goals for Bubble Binz, which also received goals from James Knowles and Nate Welch in the victory.
Selena Gonzalez-Salinas paced AMI Dolphin Tours with two goals, while Damir Glavan and Robert Fellowes each had an assist in the loss
Playoff action continues Dec. 19 when No. 1 Solid Rock Construction takes on No. 9 Gulf Drive Cafe and No. 10 Sato Real Estate faces off with No. 2 Ross Built for the top spots in the finals, which will follow on Dec. 19.
Don’t miss a great night of soccer at the center!
Horseshoe walkers
It was a week for walkers at the Anna Maria horse-
Parker Svoboda, left, shows off his award and a big grin on being named the Center of Anna Maria Island soccer league’s 8-10 division most valuable player alongside Ruby Kesten with her 8-10 female most valuable player award. Sawyer Leibfried also holds a trophy as goalie of the year for the 8-10 division. Islander Courtesy
shoe pits. On Dec. 11, Bob Rowley walked his way to the winner’s circle by posting the lone 3-0 record during pool play and was the day’s outright champion.
The Dec. 14 games saw two teams advance to the knockout stage before Tom Farrington walked his way past Adin Shank and Rod Bussey by a 25-5 score to earn the day’s bragging rights.
Play gets underway at 9 a.m. Wednesdays and Saturdays at the Anna Maria City Hall pits. Warmups begin at 8:45 a.m. followed by random team selection.
There is no charge to play.
Key Royale news
The men’s weekly modifi ed-Stableford system match along with the weekly scrambles on Thursdays at the Key Royale Club in Holmes Beach are set to resume Jan. 6. Meanwhile the women teed up Dec. 10 for their weekly nine-hole individual low-net match.
Ceal Barry rode a chip-in birdie on the second hole to a 1-over-par 33 to a three-way tie for first place with Gloria LaDue and Jana Samuels. Nina McSparren and Terry Westby tied for second place with matching 2-over-par 34s.
can explore The Islander newspaper archive, dating back to its launch in November 1992, at ufdc.ufl.edu.
Cassidy
Photo: CofAMI
Bob Rowley shows off his trophy for a walk to the only perfect record in pool play in the Dec. 11 horseshoe action. He was the outright champ for the day at the Anna Maria City Hall pits. Islander Courtesy Photo: AMI Pitchers
adelphia, shows off the redfish he caught Dec. 10 on a live shrimp on a guided fishing trip with Capt. David White. The fish was prepared for the Brannan table at The Waterfront Restaurant the same night.
Fish art contest begins
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission in partnership with Wildlife Forever, is hosting the 2024-25 Art of Conservation Fish Art Contest.
The annual program invites youth to connect with nature and learn about fish and aquatic habitats while exploring creative art and writing.
Since its founding in 1997, the contest has reached more than 85,000 youth in 46 countries.
The free contest is accessible to students from kindergarten through 12th-grade.
Each year, thousands of entries pour in from across the globe.
One first-place winner and one runner-up will be
Time to cash in on fishing license discounts
Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis recently signed an executive order directing the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission to provide substantial discounts on fishing licenses through Jan. 3, 2025.
Just in time for the holiday season, the executive order reduces the annual freshwater/saltwater fishing combination license to only $5, making it easy for families to enjoy a day of fishing.
The order also discounts the annual and fiveyear Gold Sportsman and Youth Lifetime Sportsman licenses for ages 0-17.
“This initiative is a fantastic opportunity for Florida families to spend quality time outdoors and to connect with our state’s remarkable wildlife and ecosystems,” said FWC Executive Director Roger Young. “We’re excited to open the door for more residents to explore hunting and fishing in Florida and hope that it inspires Floridians to support conservation efforts across the state.”
Florida residents can purchase the discounted licenses online at GoOutdoorsFlorida.com , in person at their local tax collector’s office or through the Fish|Hunt FL App, available on Apple and Android devices.
selected for each grade bracket in a freshwater category and saltwater category. The brackets are:
• Kindergarten through third-grade;
• Fourth- through sixth-grade;
• Seventh- through ninth-grade;
• 10th- through 12-grade.
For more information, including entry forms, go to myfwc.com/fishart.
The contest is open for submissions until Feb. 28, 2025.
Keye merger
Barry Grooms, longtime Islander and owner of Grooms Motors in Holmes Beach, and wife Sherry, announced Dec. 10 the merger of their company with the Keyes Company, Florida’s largest independent real estate firm. Keyes also purchased Signature Premier Properties of Sarasota. The Bradenton office is at 417 Main St. and Sarasota office is at 1433 Main St. Barry Grooms is a past President of Florida Realtors, Sherry Grooms has held numerous industry leadership positions, including as president of the Manatee Association of Realtors and the Women’s Council of Realtors Manatee. The couple is also involved in community and civic organizations. Islander Courtesy Photo
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 serve-yourself community news returned to the lobby.
Edgar Brannan, visiting Anna Maria Island from Phil-
ITEMS FOR SALE
FREE TOURNAMENT TABLE tennis table. Good condition. Must collect. 941-447-6363.
1920-30 ANTIQUE BOTTLES: Embossed. Four for $25. Vintage stamp sales machine. $25. Bill, 724-986-0314. Pictures upon request.
TWO TRAILER TIRES: FT-78, 14 inches, tires fair, excellent rims. $20. 513-604-0385. RACK: METAL FOUR-tier, $20. 941-9202494.
FREEBIE ITEMS FOR SALE
Individuals may place one free ad with up to three items, each priced $100 or less, 15 words or less. FREE, one week, must be submitted online. Email classifieds@islander. org. (limited time offer).
ANNOUNCEMENTS
CANDLELIGHT CHRISTMAS EVE service at 6 p.m., Tuesday, Dec. 24. Harvey Memorial Community Church, 208 Church Ave. Bradenton Beach. The first service in our little church since hurricane Helene! Join us for this very special service!
TRANSPORTATION
GOLF CART RENTALS: Fun for residents and tourists! 212-941-2402. www.GolfCartRentalAMI.com.
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.
More ads = more readers in The Islander.
BOATS & BOATING Continued
SUNCOAST BOTTOM PAINTING: Professional bottom painting. Mobile. Call 941704-9382.
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.
WELCOME ABOARD JOYFISH Charters for private fishing, sunset cruises, and dolphin watching. Check out joyfishcharters.com or follow us on Facebook. Call to reserve, 941840-3181.
2017 YAMAHA 242LTD boat for sale. One owner, well-maintained, on lift since new. 217-825-6575.
HELP WANTED
BEACH MARKET VENDOR looking for set-up person. Three days a week. Pick up and carry merchandise from storage, set up tents and displays. At end of day, tear down tents and displays and return merchandise to storage. Work hours, 8-10 a.m. and 2-4 p.m. $100/day. Email everythingjustbeachy@ gmail.com. 941-209-0497.
HIRING SOMEONE TO deliver, set up and tear down inflatable equipment on the island. Paid on a per job basis. Perfect for retired, high school or college students. 913-5589598.
NOW HIRING HANDYMAN: Full-time professional services. $18 an hour and up, based on experience. Call JayPros, 941962-2874.
REPORTER WANTED: Full- to part-time. Print media, newspaper experience required. Apply via email with letter of interest to news@islander.org.
KIDS FOR HIRE
KIDS FOR HIRE ads are FREE for up to three weeks for Island youths under 16 looking for work. Send ads to classifieds@islander.org.
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.
PRESSURE WASHING, PAVER sealing, driveway, roof, fence, pool area. Also, window cleaning. Licensed and insured. 941-5653931.
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.
SERVICES Continued
API’S DRYWALL REPAIR: I look forward to servicing your drywall repair needs. Call 941524-8067 to schedule an appointment.
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
SARASOTA PAINTING: INTERIOR/exterior/ cabinets: Call or text Don, 941-900-9398. Free estimates. Fully insured, twenty years’ experience.
RIDEEASY 247 YOUR professional, reliable and courteous car service to airports and events since 2015. You can reach us via text 941-447-7737 or email to mrfort5001@gmail. com. We are available 24/7.
LOOK NO MORE! Residential, vacation rental and commercial cleaning. Give us a call, 941-250-8548.
LOOKING FOR SOMEONE who needs me: Clean, house-sit. I can cook, make sandwiches. I can do anything you can do but better! I can run to the grocery store for you. I can walk pets or go out to lunch with you. Looking for a part-time job caregiving companion, I am your right arm! I love people and I love helping others. I have references and I’m reliable and dependable. My name is Dena Gray a.k.a. Sparkles! 941-704-9948.
OUR SERVICES: CLEANING, home repairs, tile, concrete, remodeling, decks, steps, flooring, water drainage solutions, rental 24-hour services. Hurricane shutters and pre-storm service. New, low-cost generator and insulation (starts and runs on propane when power off). No permits needed. Islander, over 40 years here! Call 941-4049163.
IS YOUR POOL deck, driveway, or garage floor looking worn out and dated? Bring them back to life with our top-tier resurfacing services! Services offered: Pool deck resurfacing, Slip-resistant, cool-to-the-touch finishes that enhance safety and aesthetics. Driveway resurfacing, durable surfaces that stand up to heavy traffic and harsh weather. Garage floor resurfacing, easy-to-clean, stain-resistant surfaces that look great and perform even better. Don’t wait! Transform your spaces today with our trusted resurfacing services. Contact us now for a free consultation and estimate. Call U Plus Me LLC at 727-6235050 or visit u-plus-me.com
AIRPORT SHUTTLE: QUALITY transportation, 10 years by Lewber. 352-339-3478.
BUSINESS-TO-BUSINESS JD’s Window Cleaning looking for storefront jobs in Holmes Beach. I make dirty windows sparkling clean. 941-920-3840.
BEACH SERVICE air conditioning, heat, refrigeration. Commercial and residential service, repair and/or replacement. Serving Manatee County and the Island since 1987. For dependable, honest and personalized service, call Bill Eller, 941-720-7411. CAC184228.
SERVICES Continued
CLEAN TECH MOBILE Detailing. At your location. Cars, boats, RVs. Call or text Billie for an appointment. 941-592-3482.
LAWN & GARDEN
CONNIE’S LANDSCAPING INC. Residential and commercial. Full-service lawn maintenance, landscaping, cleanups, hauling and more! Insured. 941-713-1965.
NOW HAULING STORM trash. Shell delivered and spread. Hauling all kinds of gravel, mulch, topsoil with free estimates. Call Larry at 941-795-7775, or “shell phone” 941-7200770.
GRIFFIN’S HOME IMPROVEMENTS Inc. Handyman, fine woodwork, countertops, cabinets and wood flooring. Insured and licensed. 941-722-8792.
LANE’S SCREENING SERVICES: Replace your window, door or lanai screens. Many screen options available. Retired veteran serving our community! Free estimates, call 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.
TILE-TILE-TILE: All variations of ceramic tile supplied and installed. Quality workmanship, prompt, reliable, many Island references. Call Robert, 941-726-3077.
DONALD PERKINS PAINTING LLC. Interior/exterior/pressure washing. Island references. dperkinspaint@hotmail.com. 941705-7096.
GORILLA DRYWALL REPAIR LLC. Let’s solve your drywall problems together. Give us a call at 941-286-0607.
MASSEY CONTRACTING: PROVIDING quality roofing services on all jobs, big or small. Giving honest, hassle-free quotes at a great price. Call Jon to schedule your free estimate, 727-477-5313. Lic#CCC1332486.
HOME IMPROVEMENT Continued
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.
ISLAND HANDYMAN: I live here, work here, value your referral. Refinish, paint. Just ask. JayPros. Licensed/insured. References. Call Jay, 941-962-2874.
RENTALS
ANNA MARIA GULF beachfront vacation rentals. One- two- and three-bedroom units, all beachfront. www.amiparadise.com. 941778-3143.
AVAILABLE NOW AND season: 1BR/1BA, seven-night minimum. carlesvacationrentals. com. Special rates are available. 941-8071405.
2BR/1BA ANNUAL LEASE: Electric/ac/heat all included. $2,975/month. Looking for 1 or 2 quiet adults with no pets or smoking. Steps to Gulf. Owner-occupied duplex. Owner, 508496-8480. williamshomes@yahoo.com
MAY 2025 AVAILABLE: Snowbird special! Perico Island patio home, single floor, high ceilings, 3BR/2BA, privacy wall/gate, twocar garage. Call or text Alison, 859-7716423. www.pericoislandrental.com
AVAILABLE JANUARY: FOR rent Anna Maria Island condo. November to November availability. Great value. Beautiful upgraded first floor 2BR/2BR. Incredible water view. Excellent rental terms. Owner/renter. Call/email for pics, 570-239-0431. marketreps@aol.com
3BR/2BA furnished condo in Pine Bay Forest, minutes from AMI. Walk to shopping/ grocery, bus and restaurants. Washer and dryer, small pet-friendly. Pool, hot tub, sauna, tennis/pickleball court. $3,200/month. Utilities included. Association approval required. Three-month minimum lease, available February 1, 2025. 617-803-4659.
RETIRED MICHIGAN COUPLE wants one bedroom rental for late January, February, March. View preferred. References! Call/text, 231-218-7173.
BEAUTIFUL RENOVATED SUNNY condo for rent. Perico Bay club, minutes from AMI beaches. Annual starting Jan. 25. 2B/2BA, pool, hot tub, tennis, gym, security gate, parking. $2,500/month. Call 952-818-4685.
ANNUAL RENTAL: HOLMES Beach. Three minutes to the beach, newly renovated house, 2,100 sf, 3BR/3BA. Two-car garage. $5,950/ monthly. 514-730-4825. kondiloveroutis@ gmail.com
MINUTES TO BEACHES! 2BR/2BA condo, water and cable included, pool, washer/dryer, $1,795/month, annual, 941-713-6743.
REAL ESTATE
WINNIE MCHALE, REALTOR, 941-5046146. Dalton Wade Real Estate. 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.”
2BR/2BA HOME for sale. 3,000 sfur. 1,100 sf garage. Steps to beach. $1,449,000. 941518-6329.
OFF ISLAND: NORTHWEST Shaw’s Point location. 3BR/2BA, two-car garage, pool home. High and dry and untouched by any storm. $670,000. Lisa Varano, Wagner Realty, 941-730-9060 or 941-751-0670.
FOR SALE! 5,000 sf lot with 2BR/1BA 870 sf cottage. Private pool, landscaped. 701 N Bay Blvd., AMI. Sold “as is”, $1,200,000. (Includes $100,000 annual rentals account). Private sale only, no realtors. Serious buyers only. 781-462-6760.
WE BEAT THE bank with possible owner finance. Westside villa, 2BR/2BA plus den and two-car garage. No flood zone. $389,000. Real Estate Mart, 941-356-1456.
COMMERCIAL SPACE FOR SALE in Palm Condo. 12x25-foot office suite. Street frontage. One allocated parking space. Shared client parking. $120,000. Call 941-7302606.
By Bonner Joy
Reimagined restaurant
I’m guessing, you missed a great party. If so, well, you’ll have time to patronize Floridays Woodfire Grill and Bar.
The views of Anna Maria Island and the daily sunset show are fabulous enough, but the seafood is top notch and the smokey grilled cheeseburger is what Jimmy Buffett was looking for all along.
And you’re gonna want to get a good look at the beach-themed bar top and the great white shark hanging overhead in the chickee.
Brian Keller, general manager of the hotel and restaurant for Concord Hospitality, which recently took over management of the complex, hosted the Dec. 10 reimagining party. “Our team, with the expert guidance of Chef Ken Gilcrest and F&B manager Kevin Haggerty, are committed to delivering a consistent high-quality experience that is reflective of the island’s spirit and we’re excited to invite back both locals and visitors alike to enjoy our new offerings and incredible views of the sound.”
Concord Hospitality specializes in developing and managing full-service and select-service hotels across North America from a home office in North Carolina.
For patrons striving for a great waterfront dining
Floridays Executive
Chef Ken Gilcrest greets guests at the Dec. 10 “Reimagining.” He has 44 years experience and most recently served guests in Parrish and Hawaii. Islander Courtesy Photo: Cassie Wegeng Photography
experience on Anna Maria Island and Longboat Key or in Cortez, there now is a new, worthwhile spot to list among your home ports.
The newly-reimagined Floridays will offer nightly specials as well as a packed calendar of entertainment and events. Guests can expect live music throughout the week, social gatherings and celebrations during major sporting events, holidays, as well as weekly promotions, including Fresh Catch Fridays.
Floridays serves guests daily 11 a.m.-10 p.m. with for weekend bar service from 11a.m.-11p.m.
Happy hours are Monday-Friday 3-6 p.m.
For more information, visit floridays-annamaria. com and follow on Instagram @floridaysgrill
See you at the bar! — Bonner Joy
The lead singer for Jah Movement, a reggae band that covers the decades of rock-n-roll music, tells Floridays party patrons Dec. 10 to “get dancing.”
Jackie and Angus Rogers of Sarasota, co-owners of Floridays and Compass, enjoy the “Reimagining” celebration Dec. 10 of the restaurant.
Kiwi lunch Chamber staff, members and guests, including John Berriola of Camber Brands, front right, and Lisa Hlywa of Photography by Lisa E, enjoy networking and lunch Dec. 12 at Kiwi Style Fish & Chips, in the Anna Maria Island Centre shopping plaza in Holmes Beach. Islander Photo: AMICofC/Bonnie Sanchez
Get out of the boat, go shallow, get wet, get hookups
By Capt. Danny Stasny Islander Reporter
So whaat? It’s a little chilly.
Anna Maria Island anglers who are willing to brave the cold temperatures and get out on the water are finding good action by fishing the negative tides around the full moon in December.
A negative tide is a tide lower than the mean average low tides throughout the year. These tides are extremely low, leaving many areas of the flats exposed, which can cause groups of fish to find slightly deeper water for refuge until the tide once again rises.
Stasny
On the flats, deeper potholes and ditches may be the only areas where these fish can remain, causing them to be consolidated in areas as they wait for the tide to come up, which enables them to once again disperse and forage.
Finding these areas on the flats can be quite beneficial to the angler as it reduces time searching for fish — they’re waiting for you. They’re contained in a large hole, practically landlocked, which creates a scenario much like the term “fishing in a barrel.”
Getting to these areas is not always easy, as the shallow waters can prevent access by boat. It requires the angler to wade to the “barrel.” In colder temperatures, those anglers in the know will employ the use of neoprene waders as well as some waiting boots or booties to keep warm and protected. Plan accordingly
if you are to attempt such an excursion.
The payoff can be substantial, as species such as redfish and trout are frequently trapped in these low tide oases, rendering them vulnerable to the angler.
Casting live shrimp or artificials such as soft plastics on a jig head into these potholes or deeper water can result in numerous hookups depending on how many fish are trapped in the hole.
And going through the process of wading to a flat in the middle of a winter, carrying the proper gear and keeping yourself warm can be quite satisfying when rewarded with a more than successful morning of fishing on a day when normally you wouldn’t expect a bite.
So get out there and do your homework.
Get out of the boat and learn the territory you’re fishing.
The experience of walking the flat can be much more intimate than just drifting over it in the boat, which in turn should make you a better angler.
On my Just Reel charters, I’m working the inshore waters of Sarasota Bay. Spotted seatrout are the most apparent catch with some mornings yielding 20-30 fish.
Live shrimp or jigs tipped with shrimp work well to catch the trout, which are running 12-20 inches.
Meanwhile, redfish are cooperating in the backcountry. Casting live shrimp around rocks and docks is leading to numerous hookups on these fish.
Many reds are just short of 18 inches, although catching the boat limit of two keepers is attainable.
Lastly, while targeting reds, we’re seeing a variety of other catches — flounder, mangrove snapper, sheepshead and an occasional black drum.
Capt. David White is taking his charters to fish inshore throughout the waters of Tampa Bay, where redfish are the most frequent catch — readily taking offerings of live shrimp as bait. According to White, casting bait around rocks and docks is leading to the bite, as well as some action on black drum and sheepshead.
Drifting over deeper flats with good tidal flow also is working well for White. In these areas, casting jigs tipped with shrimp is resulting in spotted sea trout and pompan for his clients.
Capt. Johnny Mattay is finding his best action while working nearshore ledges and other structure in the Gulf of Mexico.
Using live shrimp as bait combined with a 1-ounce knocker rig is yielding catches — mangrove snapper, yellowtail snapper, Key West grunts, porgies, juvenile groupers and a few hogfish.
In most instances Mattay is only moving to a few spots while in the Gulf, which results in a lot of fishing time for his clients as well as plenty of fish in the box to take home for dinner.
Moving inshore, Mattay is spending mornings putting clients on redfish around rocks and docks. Casting live shrimp in these areas is also attracting species such as mangrove snapper and sheepshead.
Send high-resolution photos and fishing reports to fish@islander.org.
