The Islander Newspaper E-Edition: Wednesday, Dec. 27, 2023

VOLUME 32, NO. 10

And a happy new year to you!

DEC. 27, 2023 fREE

the Best news on anna maria Island since 1992 astheworldterns 6 Holiday closings. 2

Q&A 122723 3

islander.org

aMe 5th-graders go ‘Ho! Ho! Ho!’

coast guard rescues boaters. 3 ethics complaint dismissed. 4 court voids HB noise ordinance. 4

By Ryan Paice Islander Reporter

Meetings 5 Pines residents facing 2024 rate hikes. 5

Opinions 6

10-20 YEARS AGO

looking back. 7

save the date. 10-11

Happenings

anna maria elementary fifth-graders perform Dec. 19 in “Winter Wonderland,” a class play. students shared facts on how different cultures celebrate winter holidays and led an audience through holiday-themed songs. Islander Photo: Robyn murrell

santa spreads holiday cheer

What’s up on amI? 11

santa claus waves to motorists passing through the gateway to Holmes Beach Dec. 22 while sitting in a lifeguard chair that was added by Holmes Beach Public Works earlier this year to the welcome sign at Kingfish Boat Ramp, 752 manatee ave. Islander Photo: Ryan Paice

12

Gathering. 14 Obituaries 14

NYT puzzle. 15

Streetlife. 18 RoadWatch 18 get in the game. 19 spring training dates. 20

skywatching in 2024. 23

cLASSIFIEDS. 24-25

Isl Biz: 26

old friends bring new tunes to amI.

PropertyWatch. 26

find the Islander archive dating to 1992 at ufdc.ufl.edu.

Anna Maria Island’s three cities each have stated their own thoughts on potential consolidation.

And there’s been one common thread: not one of the cities supports consolidating municipalities.

The island cities voiced their concerns in separate responses to information requests from the Florida Office of Program Policy Analysis and Government Accountability.

The Islander obtained the responses via public record requests the week beginning Dec. 18.

OPPAGA is a research arm of the Florida Legislature that provides data and analysis that assist budget and policy deliberations.

The study was proposed in January by Rep. Will Robinson Jr., R-Bradenton, and backed unanimously by the five-member Manatee County Legislative Delegation.

OPPAGA sent each of the island cities a request for information in November. The requests included 15 questions, many requiring responses related to the past five fiscal years.

Out of all of the questions and answers, two stood out.

OPPAGA asked the cities to provide “a description of any ways that services for

tuRn to cONsOlIDaTION, Page 2

Flashback 2023: The year in review Part 1

compiled by lisa neff Islander editor cold-weather fishing. 21

docs filed for consolidation study on aMi

What made headlines in 2023?

News that broke last winter involved issues that dominated The Islander’s news pages and impacted island life throughout the year, including county and state attacks on municipal home rule, plans to sell one of two remaining trailer parks on AMI, a proposal to transform Bradenton Beach’s commercial district with a hotel resort, repeated delays in completing major infrastructure projects in Holmes Beach’s City Center — where a pedestrian and concerns about congestion and safety on island roads.

The Islander news pages carried reports of tragedy, including the death of a pedestrian in Holmes Beach and a bicyclist on the Anna Maria Island Bridge; of suffering, including the loss of prominent islanders; and of endurance, including weathering

Flashback ’23

extreme storms.

The Islander news pages also carried reports of personal joys and community celebrations as people kept AMI traditions — parades and potlucks, festivals and fundraisers, market days and theatrical plays.

Read on in Flashback 2023, the first half of the year, with more to come next week.

January • Holmes Beach eyes Feb. finish for City Center: Holmes Beach Mayor Judy Titsworth said Sarasota-based C-Squared CGC could complete work on a $3 million improvement project by February, before high season.

• Wildlife rescues increase: Wildlife Education & Rehabilitation Center Inc., which operates from a home in Bradenton

Beach, saw a higher than usual number of birds suffering from exposure after a cold front moved in with Christmas 2022.

Anna Maria names 2 for Citizen of the Year: Anna Maria’s 2022 Citizen of the Year was to be shared by two people — former Anna Maria Commissioner Carol Carter and the late Suzi Fox, executive director of Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring. Fox also received The Islander of the Year award from the newspaper.

Campaign to halt Bradenton Beach hotel gains traction: Hunter Jensen launched a Change.org petition against a resort development proposed near the roundabout at Bridge Street and Gulf Drive in Bradenton Beach.

Coast Guard rescues cruise passenger: Crew members from U.S. Coast Guard Station Cortez medevac’d a 43-year-old British national experiencing a cardiac event from a tuRn to flashback, Page 8

Page 2 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Dec. 27, 2023 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

cONsOlIDaTION contInueD fRom Page 1

your city could be consolidated with other cities on Anna Maria Island that would result in savings to residents.”

Anna Maria provided a handful of ideas for limited consolidation with the other municipalities in its response, such as islandwide consolidation of code and law enforcement services.

The city wrote in its response, “Establishing a single law enforcement agency for the entire island, either as a single ‘Anna Maria Island PD’ managed by the three cities or using Manatee County Sheriff’s Office deputies, could potentially save significant ad valorem taxes and expand the scope of services.”

The city proposed a centralized pool of public works equipment not used every day, as well as consolidating the cities’ public works into a single centrally located work center.

Other proposals included pooling a centralized work force for islandwide public works functions, such as beach cleanup, mowing and sign maintenance.

Bradenton Beach also posed a handful of ideas for limited consolidation, such as evenly administering the Florida building code across all three cities and creating an islandwide solid waste department or collectively bargaining on a franchise agreement for

Holiday notice

New Year’s brings closings

New Year’s Day is observed Monday, Jan. 1.

Government offices will be closed that day.

There will be no Manatee County Area Transit fixed route or handy bus service on New Year’s Day but the Anna Maria trolley will run a regular service.

The trolley also will operate its regular service on New Year’s Eve. Manatee County parks, preserves and beaches will be open Jan. 1 but public libraries will be closed.

Trash collections that typically take place Mondays will be delayed a day throughout the week.

waste management.

However, the southernmost island city wasn’t as willing to consolidate police forces.

The city wrote, “Consolidation would remove a lot of control from the ‘local agency’ and would have a significant adverse impact on community-oriented policing for Bradenton Beach.”

Holmes Beach also expressed concerns about the possibility of consolidating law enforcement services, such as challenges with the transferal of pensions and a location to operate an islandwide police force.

The city also expressed doubts with the potential savings earned by consolidating building and planning departments.

Nevertheless, its response proposed centralizing efforts toward street sweeping and addressing the island’s landscaping needs, such as mowing and tree trimming.

In another question, OPPAGA’s asked for “a description of the benefits and challenges to individual citizens as well as to government operations related to the following potential options for local governance on Anna Maria Island.”

The question posed three options: • “All three cities on Anna Maria Island are consolidated into one new city on the island”; • “All three cities on Anna Maria Island were incorporated as part of the city of Bradenton”; • “All three cities on Anna Maria Island remain as incorporated municipalities on the island and work to consolidate existing services where that makes sense.”

Correction

In the Dec. 20 edition of The Islander, a report based on a Dec. 14 email from Anna Maria Mayor Dan Murphy incorrectly named the contractor responsible for removing mangroves at 111 Gull Drive.

Murphy, in a Dec. 19 email to The Islander, corrected his earlier message and named Bradenton-based Mason Martin LLC as the contractor at the property and “the entity that removed the mangroves.”

The city of Anna Maria wrote in its response that the first two options would result in a loss of cultural diversity, increased tax rates, as well as loss of jobs and municipal home rule.

The city’s response stated that incorporating the island cities into Bradenton would result in a 275% increase in ad valorem tax rates for island residents, who enjoy an average millage rate of about 2.1, due to the mainland municipality’s 5.7726 millage rate.

“Either scenario is disruptive and almost certain to be met with strong legal opposition, thus making such an effort costly as well as time consuming,” the city wrote.

The city noted that option 3 would “be the least disruptive and potentially reap the quickest taxpayer savings. Island businesses, residents and visitors could all benefit.”

Bradenton Beach wrote in its response that consolidation of the island cities would result in a loss of personalized services and community individuality.

The city wrote, “Nearly everyone who is invested in the communities share the same opinion: that the charm of the island and why they chose to live or visit is for the eclectic feel of three distinct communities, and that the cost borne by the taxpayers is well worth the expense given the specialized local service and the unique experience of having a government close to the people.”

Holmes Beach wrote in its response that the third option was nearly free of drawbacks and would allow the cities to maintain their staff and unique codes while working together to synergize on certain matters.

On the other hand, it offered mixed thoughts on option 1 and almost entirely negative takes on option 2, which the city stated would result in extensive organizational and logistical issues.

Holmes Beach replied, “While there is often synergy developed when combining resources and collaborating with different thoughts and ideas, there seems to be limited potential for this if the island cities are combined with the city of Bradenton.”

The study is to be completed by July 2024.

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Dec. 27, 2023 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 3 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Coast Guard rescues boaters from rough seas U.S. Coast Guard Station Cortez crews assisted multiple boaters Dec. 18-19 from rough seas associated with a weekend storm system.

A crew responded Dec. 18 to a call about a capsized kayaker in Sarasota Bay just off Bradenton Beach The kayaker, a 74-year-old man, was clinging to the side of a partially submerged kayak for more than 15 minutes.

A boater whose vessel was anchored in the bay spotted the kayaker battling the elements and contacted Station Cortez.

Petty Officer 2nd Class Dylan Young, part of the Cortez crew, spoke to The Islander Dec. 19: “We headed over there and he was pretty cold. We pulled him onboard and recovered his kayak.”

The man was transported to the Historic Bridge Street Pier where he was taken for treatment by Manatee County Emergency Medical Services.

Young said another rescue occurred Dec. 19.

He said two boaters aboard a dinghy went adrift on their way back to a boat anchored off Cortez.

“Luckily, they had navigation lights on and they were easy to find,” Young said.

He said Station Cortez and other Coast Guard units retrieved the boaters and towed the dinghy to their anchored vessel.

u.s. coast guard station cortez rescues a kayaker Dec. 18 after his vessel became swamped in rough seas. Islander Photo: courtesy station cortez

The Islander poll Last week’s question

the island’s biggest story of 2023 is …

69%. County push for beach parking garage.

4%. Planning for mainland-island ferry.

11%. Big resort plan for Bradenton Beach.

9%. Pines Trailer Park sale.

5%. Roadwork in Holmes Beach City Center.

2%. Other.

This week’s question Do you make a new year’s resolution?

Flashback Q&A

Flashback ’23

10 %

OFF tours & rentals

For

By lisa neff

A. Always.

B. Never.

C. If I remember.

D. I do but usually forget it.

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

— Robert anderson

manatee county lifeguards may 3 break into a sprint to the waters of coquina Beach during water rescue training with staff from the West manatee fire Rescue District. Islander file Photo: Ryan Paice

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A sampling of what we asked in the first half of 2023 and the top votes among readers: • In January: Mote Marine’s planned outreach center on the Anna Maria City Pier will open ...

You said: 49%, Before the end of 2023 • In February: How often do you ride the trolley?

You said: 35%, Occasionally.

• In March: Loved the Beatles tribute at the Center of AMI. Next I’d like to see a tribute to …

You said: 25%, Queen.

• In April: Does the Manatee County Legislative Delegation care about Anna Maria Island voters?

You said: 88%, Obviously not.

• In May: Are island streets safe for pedestrians and bicyclists?

You said: 48%, No. • In June: How do you book vacation accommodations?

You said: 52%, Vacation rental app.

— compiled by lisa neff

Page 4 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Dec. 27, 2023 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Alleged ethics violation against BB commissioner dismissed by state

By Robert anderson Islander Reporter

The Florida Commission on Ethics dismissed a complaint against Bradenton Beach Commissioner Jake Spooner that was related to his involvement in a recently approved Bridge Street Resort redevelopment project.

The commission reviewed the complaint against Spooner as part of a Dec. 1 closed session and released the result Dec. 6. spooner The complaint submitted Sept. 1

by Sue Longacre alleged that Spooner, a co-owner of the resort project, had a conflict of interest as a commissioner.

Longacre, a Bradenton beach resident, spoke to

The Islander Dec. 21 by email about the complaint.

“My point of the ethics complaint is that I feel my ward representative/Spooner has his financial interests taking priority over the best interests of his voting constituents,” Longacre wrote. “Commissioner Spooner should have looked out for the concerns of the people in his ward.”

Spooner recused himself during a Jan. 5, 2023, commission meeting from further voting on the resort project.

And Dec. 7, the yes votes to approve a planned development for the 106-room resort on Bridge Street, Third Street South and Gulf Drive came from Mayor John Chappie and Commissioners Ralph Cole, Marilyn Maro and Jan Vosburgh.

The report issued Dec. 6 by the ethics commission

cited statutes pertaining to voting conflicts: “No county, municipal, or other local public officer shall vote in an official capacity upon any measure which would inure to his or her special private gain or loss.”

The commission said the complaint failed to meet the criteria for a violation: “There are not allegations in the complaint that the Respondent (Spooner) voted on any matter pertaining to his company’s properties or that any matter pertaining to the respondent’s company’s properties has come before the city commission for analysis or approval.”

Consequently, the complaint was dismissed for failing to constitute a legally sufficient grievance.

The Islander reached out to Spooner by text Dec. 20 but, as of press time Dec. 24, there was no response.

decibel meters.

Code and law enforcement officers also can determine noise violations if a sound is plainly audible 10 p.m.-7 a.m. 100 feet or more from a property line of the source Augello said Sansone’s ruling found some of the subsection’s standards for determining a violation — such as intensity and nature of the noise — were too subjective, so her ruling enjoins the city from enforcing the subsection.

However, the ruling found no issue with the city’s plainly audible clause, so Augello proposed expanding it by removing the timeframe associated with the standard, as well as rewrote the subsection to minimize ambiguity.

Augello said she believed the changes would comply with Sansone’s ruling, but also cleared it with attorney Randy Mora of the Clearwater-based law firm Trask Daigneault, who represented the city in the case.

Mayor Judy Titsworth said the proposed changes would cause issues since live music can be heard from

certain venues in the city during the day, when it is supposed to be allowed.

Titsworth suggested removing the plainly audible timeframe for residential violations but establishing a timeframe for using the plainly audible standard to determine commercial violations at night.

Commissioners agreed with Titsworth’s suggestion and reached consensus to move forward with the proposed changes.

The city commission will meet next at 2 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 9, 2024, at city hall, 5801 Marina Drive.

A livestream of the meeting can be viewed on the city’s website, holmesbeachfl.org.

Court voids vague Holmes Beach noise ordinance, city explores changes

By Ryan Paice Islander Reporter

A court order will result in some changes to the city of Holmes Beach’s noise ordinance.

The case — Harbor Breeze AMI LLC v. Holmes Beach — began in July 2022 and was based on a Nov. 27, 2021, noise citation that was upheld by the city’s special magistrate.

City commissioners reached consensus Dec. 12 to move forward with proposed changes to city code to establish more objective noise violation standards in response to a June 7 ruling by Judge Amanda Arnold Sansone of the Middle District of Florida.

City attorney Erica Augello said the ruling found a subsection of the municipality’s noise ordinance void due to vagueness and in violation of the 14th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution.

The subsection sets the standards code that law enforcement officers use to determine and measure noise violations.

Those standards include the duration, intensity and volume of the noise, which can be determined using

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20-mile late-night chase to island, ends in Bradenton with arrest Manatee County sheriff’s deputies arrested a man Dec. 21 who allegedly battered a rideshare driver, stole the vehicle, led a high-speed chase from Bradenton to Holmes Beach to Anna Maria and back again and then crashed the stolen car into light poles.

Leo Paul Bradley, 26, faces charges of battery, motor vehicle theft, accident involving a vehicle and aggravated fleeing with damage in connection with the incident that involved law enforcement on the mainland and Anna Maria Island.

An MCSO media release said that at about 12:18 a.m. Dec. 21 Bradley allegedly punched a rideshare driver in the 3500 block of First Street West in Bradenton because he refused to pay in advance for a taxi ride from Bradenton to Tampa.

The MCSO said Bradley stole the driver’s SUV

and, within minutes of getting a dispatch report, spotted the vehicle eastbound on Manatee Avenue West on the mainland. The driver then turned around and headed west.

A pursuit lasted about 17 minutes over 20 miles, according to the MCSO, which said Bradley drove onto Anna Maria Island, where Holmes Beach police officers deployed stop sticks that flattened a wheel on the stolen vehicle.

The driver, however, continued to flee law enforcement, driving through Holmes Beach into Anna Maria and then headed south on the island.

Lights and sirens associated with the pursuit brought some islanders to the windows and prompted a series of “what happened?” discussions in AMI social media forums.

An MCSO helicopter watch unit followed the SUV as it left the island on Manatee Avenue West.

In the 6700 block of Manatee, the driver collided with a light pole and then hit another pole before coming to a stop in a ditch.

The MCSO said there were no injuries to law enforcement personnel but a deputy’s car was hit.

“Multiple MCSO units surrounded the vehicle,” according to the release. “Fire and EMS removed Bradley and transported him to Blake Hospital with nonlife-threatening injuries.”

The MCSO did not provide Bradley’s city of residence.

As of Islander press time, there was no online booking record or no posted court documents for Bradley.

Pines residents facing rent hikes in 2024, some opt to sell

By Robert anderson Islander Reporter

Members of the tight-knit Pines Trailer Park community are facing hardship after developer Shawn Kaleta, owner of Pines Park Investors LLC, announced rent increases in the new year for homeowners.

Meetings

By lisa neff

ANNA MARIA CITY

Jan. 11, 6 p.m., commission meeting.

Jan. 11, 6 p.m., candidate forum.

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

BRADENTON BEACH Jan. 4, 6 p.m., commission.

Jan. 17, 1 p.m., ScenicWAVES. Bradenton Beach City Hall, 107 Gulf Drive N., 941-778-1005, cityofbradentonbeach.com.

HOLMES BEACH Jan. 3, 10 a.m., parks and beautification.

Jan. 9. 2 p.m., commission.

Jan. 10, 9 a.m., clean water committee.

Jan. 10, 5 p.m., planning.

Holmes Beach City Hall, 5801 Marina Drive, 941-708-5800, holmesbeachfl.org.

MANATEE COUNTY Jan. 9, 9 a.m., commission.

Jan. 16, 9 a.m., commission.

County administration building, 1112 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton, 941-748-4501, mymanatee.org.

ALSO OF INTEREST Jan. 1, New Year’s Day. Most government offices will be closed.

Jan. 8, 2 p.m., Island Transportation Planning Organization, Anna Maria.

Send meeting notices to calendar@islander.org.

The mobile home park, 103 Church Ave., Bradenton Beach, was purchased by Pines Park Investors LLC. Sept. 12 from longtime owners Jackson Partnership for $16,250,000.

The acquisition included park-owned land, buildings, mobile homes, vehicles, equipment and materials.

Residents who expressed concern that the park would be demolished and redeveloped rejoiced with a notice from the new ownership stating that the trailer park would remain.

Then, 17 days after the acquisition, homeowners received a 90-day notice from the ownership detailing rent increases.

Currently, residents pay $625 per month in base rent.

Effective Jan. 1, 2024, new rates will go into effect for the 87-units with increases ranging $575-$850 per month.

The notice said the revised monthly lot rates are: • Base rent, standard lot, $1,200; • Base rent, water-view lot, $1,350; • Base rent, waterfront lot, $1,475.

The notice also stated that special use fees would be assessed in accordance with tenant rental agreements, including the incorporated prospectus and rules and regulations.

Additionally, base rent will cover two occupants and there will be an additional fee for any “additional occupant” to defray additional utilities and service costs.

One resident of the park, who spoke to The Islander Dec. 20 on the condition of anonymity, said people are questioning the increases and the limited amount of time provided for adjustment.

Longtime residents, including those on fixed incomes, might find it challenging to manage the rise in living costs.

“The park voted for a negotiating committee,” the resident said. “They met with Kaleta and his lawyers and Kaleta presented why the increase was so much.

He said that’s the going rate and presented comparative

rental rates from different mobile parks throughout the area.”

The negotiating committee did a study of rates at similar properties and then asked Pines Park Investors to consider a lower base rate of $850 a month.

The committee scheduled a second meeting to discuss the rates but this time only a legal representative attended.

The resident was not aware of what transpired in the second meeting but said there was no shift in the 2024 rates.

Some residents are moving on from the park.

According to the park resident, seven units were sold in the past four months and 10 units are for sale.

Holiday decorations at the Pines trailer Park, 103 church ave., Bradenton Beach, Dec. 20. Islander Photo: Robert anderson

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Page 6 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Dec. 27, 2023 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Opinion

Our

Looking forward

There was a teacher in my long ago past who would walk through the room, gliding between the rows of desks, reminding us, “Eyes forward,” between her talk about the lesson of the day.

On arriving at the back of the room — amid a huge sigh of relief from everyone who feared there was discipline to come — she continued the lesson, again, reminding us, “Eyes forward.”

Do I remember the lesson? No. Unless, of course, the real lesson was focus. To put our eyes on the statement on the blackboard. To listen intently to the person we couldn’t see. To set our minds to work.

Yes. I got the lesson from her method.

And I try to keep my eyes forward — on the future.

After all, newspapers everywhere are changing.

But community newspapers? They’re a different breed.

We’re built on community. We’re part of the community. We provide a sense of community to the people who live on Anna Maria Island.

And we love Anna Maria Island, too.

But we shouldn’t look past the lessons of 2023.

We need to understand why our county officials and state representatives are threatening to take over our cities. What motivates them to push for a parking garage at the beach to solve traffic problems for people wanting to come to the island?

Our cities are uniquely different within the boundaries of one 7-mile long island. Each has a character of its own and it is not to be diminished at a whim. The cities have survived wave after wave of people hoisting their consolidation flag and preaching the benefits of one island, one government.

Can we work together for the common good? Of course. And we do. We’ve fought the whims of “big” government in the past and I feel certain we can do it again. I’m equally sure it’s the right thing to do.

We joined together to bring 36-foot height limits for buildings and islandwide beach renourishment. We fought double taxation by the county and we will continue to fight parking garages in our cities.

We support two community centers, two libraries, six churches, an elementary school and a daycare center. We also strive to protect the beach habitat, wildlife and marine life and green spaces.

And 2024 will see more of the same.

Bridge Street history Just remember, eyes forward. Eyes on the goal.

Dear Bradenton Beach officials: Anna Maria Island is the gold ring that dangles on Residents of Bradenton Beach have uncovered histhe big merry-go-round. torical elements located in the Florida Master Site File Let’s look forward to a happy new year, AMI! for situs addresses within the planned development, — Bonner Joy, news@islander.org Bridge Street Resort, in Bradenton Beach, Florida.

Three situs addresses are present within the Florida Master Site File, which reflects the properties’ status at the time the listings were created in 2009: • Magnolia Apartments, 105 Bridge St., dated DEC. 27, 2023 • Vol. 32, No. 10 1935; condition fair, appears to meet qualifications for ▼ Publisher, Co-editor national listing individually and as part of a district; Bonner Joy, news@islander.org - • Bridge Street Bazaar, 117 Bridge St., dated 1955; ▼ Editorial condition good, appears to meet qualifications for editor lisa neff, lisa@islander.org Robert anderson, robert@islander.org national listing individually and as part of a district.

Joe Bird, editorial cartoonist Given this information, federal, state and local Kevin cassidy, kevin@islander.org laws require a formal environmental review for most Jack elka, jack@jackelka.com projects, as per the Florida Master Site File Office.

Robyn murrell, robyn@islander.org Ryan Paice, ryan@islander.org In the context of this information, a similar envi▼ Contributors ronmental study was conducted in 2012 at 306 and 400 Karen Riley-love Church Ave., Bradenton Beach.

Jacob merrifield capt. Danny stasny, fish@islander.org The review aimed to comply with Section 106 of the ▼ Advertising Director National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, amendments toni lyon, toni@islander.org 36, CFR Part 800, Protection of Historic Properties, and ▼ Webmaster Wayne ansell ▼ Office Manager, lisa Williams the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969. info@, accounting@, classifieds@, Residents believe it is necessary to present these subscriptions@islander.org fi ndings to the city commission and the city attorney to ▼ Distribution preserve the historical elements of Bradenton Beach. urbane Bouchet Ross Roberts Christine Johnson on behalf of Bradenton Beach Judy loden Wasco residents All others: news@islander.org Editor’s note: 101 Bridge St., now owned by Shawn Kaleta, last housed the Freckled Fin; 105 Bridge St., single copies free. Quantities of five or more: 25 cents each. owned by Kaleta, now the Island Time Inn; 117 Bridge ©1992-2023 • Editorial, sales and production offices: 315 58th st., suite J, Holmes Beach fl 34217 St., housing the Fudge Factory, registered to Bridge WeBsIte: islander.org Street Bazaar Inc., owned by Jake Spooner. text or call: 941-778-7978

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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 Senate: Republican Jim Boyd, 941-7426445, boyd.jim.web@flsenate.gov, flsenate.gov,.

Florida House: Republican Rep. William Cloud “Will” Robinson Jr., 941-708-4968, will.robinson@myfloridahouse.gov, myfloridahouse. gov.

Florida Governor: Republican Ron DeSantis, 850-717-9337 for staff, flgov.com for email,.

Letters to the editor Submit

comments along with a name, city of residence and phone number to news@islander.org.

Dec. 27, 2023 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 7 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Arrow marks the … sand Barges are employed for the construction of the anna maria Island Bridge on manatee avenue/ state Road 64. this view is from Perico Island looking westward toward anna maria Island.

Dredged sand was deposited in the bay at accesses to the bridge. the photo is dated may 5, 1956.

Infrastructure action a crew paves marina Drive near gulf Drive in Holmes Beach in september 1997. Islander Photos: manatee county 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 it’s all maintained on the library site. Look for The Islander in the UofF Florida digital newspaper collection at ufdc.ufl.edu.

10&20 years ago

From the Dec. 24, 2003, issue

• Anna Maria resident Evaristor Torres, 85, was struck and killed by a vehicle while walking his dog in the 300 block of Pine Avenue. Manatee County sheriff’s deputies investigated the incident as a vehicular homicide.

• Regions Bank of Florida foreclosed on the Tidemark Lodge property on Marina Drive in Holmes Beach after the collapse of a last-minute deal by developer Nick Easterling to have a Texas real estate group purchase the mortgage. The foreclosure was for $1.7 million.

• Three waterfront single-family homes on the site of the former Island Marine in Anna Maria were denied building permits because the lot size for each residence was insufficient for a singlefamily home in the retail-office-residential district.

Single-family home lots in the ROR needed to be 7,500 square feet.

From the Dec. 25, 2013, issue

• Renourishment of Anna Maria Island beaches from 79th Street in Holmes Beach to Coquina Beach began, forcing some beachgoers to detour around pipes on the shore.

• In a letter to county officials, Bradenton Beach Mayor Bill Shearon said an internal audit would help the city make recommendations “to address time-sensitive issues, in addition to provide assistance to the new city clerk and treasurer we having coming on board.”

• Holmes Beach Mayor Carmel Monti announced he invited representatives of the insurance industry to explain the cost of flood insurance to islanders and address speculation of how high rates might go.

— 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!

BULK MAIL U.S. SUBScRIPTION Allow 2 weeks for every week’s delivery.

❑ 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: _____________________________________________________

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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.

4415 119th St W, Cortez, FL 34215

941-708-6120

Page 8 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Dec. 27, 2023 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

HB project a plus for a challenging year

By Ryan Paice Islander Reporter

The city of Holmes Beach spent 2023 under fire from Manatee County officials and state legislators.

But it wasn’t all negative.

City officials almost unanimously praised completion of the City Center improvements as the municipality’s greatest accomplishment of the year while speaking with The Islander over the week beginning Dec. 18.

The $3 million project involved improving drainage and adding roadway markings, bicycle lanes, sidewalks, crosswalks, street lighting and landscaping from Gulf and Marina drives to the 5600 block of Marina.

Sarasota-based C-Squared CGC began work in September 2022 and completed work earlier this fall.

Mayor Judy Titsworth wrote in a Dec. 19 email to The Islander that the combination of improvements and holiday decorations made the area “magical.”

Commissioner Carol Soustek told The Islander Dec. 21 that the project was an ideal use of grant funding.

“I think that ranks up there as something that the city needed to do and I think they did a good job,” Soustek said. “I know it’s better now for the pedestrians, because that was a nightmare for them before.”

City officials weren’t the only people impressed with the improvements.

The city received the Florida Association of County Engineers & Road Superintendents’ Small Agency’s Project of the Year award for 2023 for the project.

“I feel it was a major accomplishment for the city, in both safety, beautification and certainly function,” Commission Chair Terry Schaefer told The Islander Dec. 18.

Holmes Beach mayor Judy titsworth, left, engineering specialist lindsey sherwood and public works superintendent sage Kamiya, right, pose Dec. 12 with Deborah snyder, treasurer of the florida association of county engineers & Road superintendents, who presented a small agency Project of the Year award for 2023 to the city for its work on the city center improvement project. Islander Photo: Ryan Paice

Schaefer added that he is proud the city was able to lower its millage rate from 2.0677 to 2.05 in fiscal 2023-24.

On the other hand, city officials agreed that their biggest challenges involved attacks on home rule.

House Bill 947 — sponsored by Rep. Will Robinson Jr., R-Bradenton — was signed into law in June, allowing for Manatee County to push forward with building a parking structure on county-owned property within Holmes Beach, such as Manatee Public Beach, without obtaining a city permit.

The state also moved forward with a study into the potential consolidation of the island cities.

Commissioner Greg Kerchner wrote in a Dec. 19 text message to The Islander that the city’s greatest accomplishment of the year was facing the attacks.

“I’m most proud of how well the mayor, city staff, fellow commissioners and others are handling themselves during such a stressful time, while continuing to deal with dishonesty and duplicity at every turn,” Kerchner wrote.

Commissioner Dan Diggins wrote Dec. 19 that he had been surprised by the county and state legislators’ efforts “to essentially take over the island.”

“I can only hope that in the new year, our county and state representatives can foster a better and more productive relationship with island city leaders,” Diggins wrote.

“That way, everyone can enjoy the uniqueness of the island without all the drama. After all, visitors come here because it’s not Fort Lauderdale,” he added.

Commissioner Pat Morton did not respond to Dec. 19 and Dec. 20 calls from The Islander before deadline.

Flashback ’23

flashback contInueD fRom Page 1

Royal Caribbean cruise ship offshore of AMI. State Rep. drops bombshell on AMI cities: Kaboom! State Rep. Will Robinson Jr., R-Bradenton, ignited a powder keg of uncertainty for island cities, proposing legislation to void Holmes Beach’s parking garage prohibition and also to launch a study on consolidating the island cities.

AM moves forward with Pine Ave. improvements: Mayor Dan Murphy said the DOT completed its review of plans for Pine Avenue sidewalk and crosswalk improvements and issued its approval with “minor revisions.”

DEP fines for mangrove trimming: The Florida Department of Environmental Protection issued a proposed consent order that called for Long Bar Pointe and Medallion Homes on Sarasota Bay to pay $8,500 in fines for illegally cutting mangroves.

Counting casualties: The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission released a “manatee mortality” report for 2022, finding that 800 manatees died that year. The number was higher than the fiveyear average of 741 but lower than the 1,100 deaths in 2021.

BB mayor, commission consider dissolution of ScenicWAVES: Bradenton Beach commissioners’ discussion about appointing a new ScenicWAVES member turned into a conversation about whether the committee was needed.

Salem takes vacant AM seat: Anna Maria commissioners voted to appoint resident Charles “Charlie” Salem, a newcomer to politics in the city, to fill a seat vacated by Carol Carter.

State orders educators to cover books: The Manatee County School District was facing a challenge as it looked to implement new state legislation and regulations limiting content in classroom libraries. The measures had teachers cataloguing classroom books.

County begins work on events area at Coquina: Manatee County was taking steps to create a new Coquina events area and planting the gridwork for a pathway to carry eventgoers’ footsteps.

Anna Maria greenlights food trucks: City commissioners voted to adopt an ordinance permitting food trucks to operate on cooperating private properties in the commercial-1 zoning district.

State fishes for feedback on pelican protections: The FWC held a three-hour workshop to solicit comments from more than 100 people on potential rules for Please, see flashback, neXt Page

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. 27, 2023 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 9 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Flashback ’23

flashback continued from page 8

Anna Maria commissioners reflect on 2023

By Ryan Paice Islander Reporter

Anna Maria’s city commissioners are on the same the Skyway Fishing Pier State Park to reduce severe page as 2023 nears its end. entanglements of birds.

Chair Mark Short, Jonathan Crane and Charlie Salem had drainage improvements and potential conFebruary Ethics board dismisses complaint against HBPD solidation on their minds when they spoke about the chief: The Florida Commission on Ethics found no past year’s accomplishments with The Islander the probable cause to believe former Holmes Beach Com- week of Dec. 18.

They said the city’s greatest work in 2023 was the missioner Jayne Christenson’s claims that police Chief amount of infrastructure — drainage and paving — Bill Tokajer violated statutes by using and/or disclosimprovements completed. ing information not available to the general public.

While site work has yet to begin on plans to “reiDOT forum for Cortez Bridge draws questions: A Florida Department of Transportation forum on the magine” Pine Avenue, the municipality has completed design of a new Cortez Bridge drew 102 business less “flashy” — according to Short — but extensive owners, local officials and curious people to Kirkwood improvements, including: • Installing stormwater infiltration trenches in Presbyterian Church in Bradenton.

ScenicWAVES defends work to commission: rights of way, bringing drainage infrastructure coverMembers of the Bradenton Beach ScenicWAVES age to 100%; • Repaving planned stretches of roadway, as well group came together to ensure survival of their committee, defending their record and plans before the city as Hardin, Mangrove and Maple avenues, which were initially scheduled for improvements next year. commission.

Commissioners were effusive in their praise.

Bradenton Beach P&Z drafts parameters for Crane told The Islander Dec. 18 that the city dealt outdoor dining: The planning and zoning board held a hearing on a proposed ordinance aimed at clarify- with a couple of rough storms in 2023 but the drainage ing land development code stipulations for open-air upgrades minimized flooding.

“We spent a lot of energy and effort this year focusdining.

State Rep: Consolidating cities off the table: ing on infrastructure because it was something that had Anna Maria Mayor Dan Murphy said Feb. 9 that state to be done,” Short told The Islander Dec. 19. “I think Rep. Will Robinson Jr., R-Bradenton, agreed to kill the people that live here appreciate that, especially a bill he proposed for a study into island governance when they’ve seen with the rains that the flooding it that could have led to the consolidation or dissolution less noticeable.”

“It’s not pretty and it’s not flashy and for the casual of AMI municipalities.

BB puts brakes on food truck operations: Bra- person just driving up and down the streets, they might denton Beach commissioners were putting the brakes not notice. But for the residents, I think it was a sigon any food truck operations until they could draft nificant improvement,” he added.

On the other hand, commissioners agreed that the some rules for the businesses.

Holmes Blvd. road work extended: Manatee city’s greatest challenge was addressing a potential County commissioners unanimously voted to approve consolidation threat, which is being studied at the state a change order authorizing a 72-day extension to the level.

The city recently responded to the Florida Office construction schedule for a county force main project on Holmes Beach roadways.

State rep. files parking garage preemption bill: State Rep. Will Robinson Jr. filed a bill that would authorize Manatee County to construct a 36-foot-tall By Robert Anderson Islander Reporter parking garage in Holmes Beach.

As the sun was setting on 2023, Bradenton Beach’s Gallery making move to mainland: Island Galmayor was reviewing city hall achievements, espelery West had been operating in the same location in cially infrastructure work.

Holmes Beach for 33 years when it announced it was Mayor John Chappie spoke with moving to Bradenton.

The Islander Dec. 18 about major County TDC boosts funds for historical society: projects, including undergrounding The Anna Maria Island Historical Society, which for utilities, stormwater improvements years raised dough with donations and bread sales, and more over the past 12 months. was in line for $100,000 in Manatee County tourist Chappie said a landmark accomdevelopment tax dollars.

Chappie plishment was the continuation of Anna Maria increases rental registration fees: utilities undergrounding for aesthetic City commissioners unanimously voted to adopt a resolution establishing vacation rental registration fees for appeal and to ensure the reliability of utility services.

“Every year is interesting,” Chappie said. “A lot of 2023-24 based on maximum occupancy allowed under stuff goes on behind the scenes that most people don’t each registration, at $84.17 per allowed occupant. know about that we are always doing. It takes a lot of Pines park offered to HOA: Notices at the Pines trailer Park in Bradenton Beach announced HOA meet- work by staff.”

In 2023, the city undergrounded utilities along ings based on an offer from the park owner, JackThird, Fourth, Fifth streets south and Bay Drive South son Partnership, to sell the property for $16 million. between Fourth and Fifth.

Crews start new phase of buried utilities: The The work cost $436,995 and was the final phase in Bradenton Beach Community Redevelopment Agency the community redevelopment agency area bordered was burying utilities along Third, Fourth, Fifth streets by Cortez Road, Sarasota Bay, Fifth Street South and south and Bay Drive South between Fourth and Fifth. the Gulf of Mexico.

State proposes changes to fishing regs at Skyway With an eye on 2024, Chappie said the city was park: The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation seeking a state grant to fund undergrounding for the Commission proposed a rule to modify regulations at remainder of the city. the Skyway Fishing Pier State Park to protect pelicans There also was headway in 2023 on stormwater and other birds from fishing activity.

County commission advocates parking garage management planning as the city applied for a $2.7 takeover: The Manatee County Board of County Com- million grant from the Florida Department of Envimissioners was unanimous in its support for House Bill ronmental Protection for improvements designed to 947, legislation that would authorize a parking garage reduce flooding on Gulf Drive North.

The city also completed its resiliency project in Holmes Beach. design for the shoreline from Bridge Street to Fifth HB says farewell to 2 key staff: City officials Street South with $92,433 from the DEP. and staff gathered for a party in The Doctor’s Office Nearby, the city completed a finger dock addition Garden to celebrate the retirement of city planner Bill to floating docks at the Historic Bridge Street Pier, Brisson and treasurer Lori Hill. increasing the number of available slips from seven to 26 with $850,000 in Manatee County tourist developplease, see flashback, Page 16 March ment tax money.

of Program Policy Analysis and Government Accountability’s request for information related to the state-ordered study on potential consolidation.

“To me, that’s the biggest disappointment. That we’ve been forced Crane to undergo this evaluation by people who sit in Tallahassee, who have never been to the island and probably won’t come to the island during this evaluation, and have zero appreciation for what we all appreciate living here,” Short said.

Salem “I’m not sure what’s motivating the legislators to force this kind of effort but it’s a challenge, and it can go a couple of ways that might be bad for the residents of the city,” Crane said. “But we’ve been very responsive, and we’re not picking a fight Short with no one.”

As for what they learned over 2023, Salem and Short said they gained a deeper understanding of the city and their positions.

Salem was appointed to the commission in January and gained a year of experience.

He said he admired former Commissioner Robert Kingan for the level of preparation Kingan did before every meeting.

Short said his first year as commission chair also was a learning experience, as he has experienced a more intimate perspective of the city’s inner workings.

Crane said his main takeaway from 2023 was that the trend of decreasing public involvement may have reversed, resulting in an abundance of applicants seeking to fill two vacant commission seats.

Mayor Dan Murphy did not respond to Dec. 18 and Dec. 19 emails from The Islander before the press deadline.

BB mayor cites 2023 city hall achievements

The finger docks also will serve as a landing area for a county water ferry service to launch in 2024 after multiple delays in 2023.

In the largest project in Bradenton Beach in decades, the city in late 2023 eased the way for developers to create a 106-room resort on Bridge Street, Gulf Drive and Third Street South.

The resort proposal produced excitement and concern among residents, business operators and city officials.

“Change is tough,” Chappie said, addressing controversy over the redevelopment. “We try not to do any harm and do things for the betterment of our community, residents and property owners alike.”

Looking back at the BBPD Bradenton Beach Police Chief John Cosby spoke Dec. 19, with The Islander about highlights of 2023: The BBPD implemented live training, working on clearing techniques and hostage and mass shooting training.

The BBPD also implemented a new firearm training program and expanded its motor pool by three Cosby vehicles and a boat.

In personnel, the BBPD welcomed a new police officer, Ryan Gagliano, and a new code enforcement officer, Evan Harbus.

“I’m a big believer in community policing and, in a city this size, that’s what it’s about,” Cosby said.

In addition to his duties as police chief, Cosby serves as emergency management coordinator and in August he led the city through Hurricane Idalia, which caused islandwide flooding, storm surge and wind damage.

“The mayor has brought along the team concept and being a smaller city, we all wear a lot of hats in order to accomplish things and it’s definitely something that works for us,” Cosby said.

Page 10 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Dec. 27, 2023 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Window works: ‘Sky Wonders’ the artists’ guild gallery in the Island shopping center, 5414 marina Drive, Holmes Beach, will exhibit “sky Wonders,” paintings by Karen eddy, in a window show throughout January. a notice from the gallery read, “since moving to florida, Karen has worked mainly with oil paints and often strives to represent the many colors and cloud formations in the florida sky. she looks forward each day to discovering the variety we can find if we just stop and take the time to gaze out and up at the skies.” a reception for the artist will be held 5-7:30 p.m. friday, Jan. 12, during the Holmes Beach night market. for more information, call the gallery at 941-7786694. Islander courtesy Photo

compiled by lisa neff, calendar@islander.org

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

Throughout January, “Sky Wonders” by Karen Eddy, Artists’ Guild Gallery, 5414 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941778-6694.

ONGOING OFF AMI

Maria. Information: 941-708-6130.

ONGOING ON AMI Select Thursdays Shark Pups and Grownups preschool proTuesdays, 8:30 a.m.-2 p.m., Anna Maria Farmers Market, City gram, Mote Marine Science Education and Outreach Center on Pier Park, Pine Avenue and Bay Boulevard. Anna Maria. Information: Anna Maria City Pier, Pine Avenue and Bay Boulevard, Anna Maria.

941-708-6130.

Information: mote.org.

Through April 2024, select dates Artists’ Guild Gallery Paint the Town sidewalk demonstrations and sales events, 5414 Marina ONGOING OFF AMI Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6694.

First Wednesdays, SOAR in 4 family night, the Bishop Museum, 201 10th St. W., Bradenton. Fee applies. Information: 941-746-4131, ONGOING OFF AMI bishopscience.org.

Select Fridays — Jan. 12, Feb. 9, March 8, April 12 — 5:30Third Fridays, Teen Nights, the Bishop Museum, 201 10th St. 7:30 p.m., Holmes Beach Night Market, Holmes Beach. Information: W., Bradenton. Fee applies. Information: 941-746-4131, bishop941-778-6694. science.org.

Saturdays through May 7, 9 a.m.-2 p.m., Bradenton Market, Second Saturdays, Quest for Kids, the Bishop Museum, 201 Old Main Street, Bradenton. Information: 941-301-8445.

10th St. W., Bradenton. Fee applies. Information: 941-746-4131, bishopscience.org.

SAVE THE DATE

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 Jan. 13-14, Anna Maria Winter Arts and Crafts Market, Holmes jam session, presented by the Florida Maritime Museum and Cortez Cultural Center, 4415 119th St. W., Cortez. Information: floridamari- Beach.

Jan. 20-21, Coquina Beach Winter Arts and Crafts Market, timemuseum.org.

Bradenton Beach.

SAVE THE DATE Feb. 9-10, Feed the Peeps Arts and Crafts Market, Anna Maria.

Jan. 11-28, Island Players’ “The Mousetrap,” Anna Maria.

March 2-3, The Invitational, Holmes Beach.

Jan. 13, Anna Maria Island/Bradenton Area Convention and March 8-9, Feed the Peeps Arts and Crafts Market, Anna Visitors Bureau Foghat concert, Anna Maria.

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

April 6-8, Coquina Beach Spring Arts and Crafts Market, BraAnna Maria.

Jan. 26, Anna Maria Island/Bradenton Area Convention and denton Beach.

March 14-16, Friends of the Island Library Jewelry Sale, Visitors Bureau Croce Plays Croce concert, Anna Maria.

Feb. 23, Anna Maria Island/Bradenton Area Convention and Holmes Beach.

Visitors Bureau Guess Who concert, Anna Maria.

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

ON AMI April 6, Anna Maria Island/Bradenton Area Convention and Monday, Jan. 1 Visitors Bureau Al Jardin concert, Anna Maria.

Noon — Clancy’s 16th annual Shamrock Shiver Charity Plunge, MARKETS & SALES Gulf beach between Fourth Street South and 12th Street South, Bradenton Beach. Information: 941-794-2489.

ONGOING ON AMI Tuesday, Jan. 2 10 a.m. — Family storytime, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Wednesdays, Fridays, Sundays, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Coquina Beach Market, Coquina Beach, Bradenton Beach. Information: 941- Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341.

6 p.m. — Holiday movie, City Pier Park, 101 N. Bay Blvd., Anna 840-0789, coquinabeachmarket.org.

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

SAVE THE DATE Jan. 4, Robinson Preserve Game Night, Bradenton.

Jan. 11-21, Manatee County Fair, Palmetto.

CLUBS & COMMUNITY ON AMI Thursday, Dec. 28 10 a.m. — Seaside Quilters, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341.

1 p.m. — Sunshine Stitchers, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341.

ONGOING ON AMI Most Saturdays, 8:30 a.m., Kiwanis Club of Anna Maria Island meeting, Bradenton Beach City Hall, 107 Gulf Drive N., Bradenton Beach. Information: 941-778-1383.

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

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.

SAVE THE DATE

Used & Consigned Musical Instruments Open JAM 1st Wednesdays

941.896.9089

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

Jan. 24, Feb. 21, March 22, Annie Silver Community Center community suppers, Bradenton Beach.

LESSONS & LEARNING ONGOING OFF AMI Thursdays, Jan. 11-Feb. 22, 2 p.m., Friends of the Island Library Lecture and Travel Series, Roser Memorial Community Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Information: 941-778-6341.

the 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

Vintage flea At Ginny’s and Jane E’s

Look for us at

A Anna Maria City Pier Park 88-4ish • Monday • Jan. 1 Shop an array of vintage vendors and local artists.

Next market: Sunday, Feb. 4 101 N. Bay Blvd. • Anna Maria

the Vintage Flea at Ginny’s and Jane E’s

Island happenings

Dec. 27, 2023 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 11 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Holiday movie planned

Anna Maria will screen a holiday movie at 6 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 2, at City Pier Park, 101 N. Bay Blvd.

As of The Islander’s press time, the movie featured to be shown was not announced.

For more information, call city hall at 941708-6130.

Foghat concert set foghat is set to play the center of anna maria Island saturday, Jan. 13, part of a concert series presented by the Bradenton area convention and Visitors Bureau with sponsorship by the manatee county tourist Development council. concerts at the center, 407 magnolia ave., anna maria, begin with an opening act at 7 p.m. Doors will open at 6 p.m. for more, go to centerami.org or call 941-778-1908. Islander courtesy Photo

ONGOING OFF AMI Mondays, 1 p.m., Longboat Key Paradise Center for Healthy Living Thinking Out Loud discussions, 546 Bay Isles Road, Longboat Key. Information: 941-383-6493.

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, Clancy’s Irish Pub invites people to plunge into The Island Players will stage the third production Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941- 2024 in the Shamrock Shiver. of the 75th season, “The Mousetrap,” Jan. 11-28.

778-6341.

The event will be at noon Monday, Jan. 1, on the The theater box office at 10009 Gulf Drive, Anna Mondays, 10 a.m., morning yoga, Island Library, 5701 Marina beach between Fourth Street South and 12th Street Maria, will open Tuesday, Jan. 2. Tickets at the box Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341.

South in Bradenton Beach. office can be purchased 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Monday-Satur-

Shamrock Shiver set for Jan. 1 Players set ‘The Mousetrap’

SAVE THE DATE Jan. 12, Center of Anna Maria Island Bingo Night begins, Anna Maria.

Jan. 18-March 28, Thursdays, Annie Silver Community Center bingo, Bradenton Beach.

Feb. 24, 2024, Pittsburgh Pirates spring training opens, Bradenton.

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

After the plunge, the activity shifts from the beach to the pub, 6218 Cortez Road, Bradenton, where there will be a post-plunge party with door prizes and music.

The fundraiser will benefit local nonprofit organizations, including the Feeding Empty Little Tummies, Healthy Teens Coalition of Manatee County and Take Stock in Children of Manatee County.

To plunge, contact Clancy’s at 941-794-2489.

Never forget

OUTDOORS & NATURE

george erdstein tells an Island library audience Jan. 27 — International Holocaust Remembrance Day — about his family’s experience as Jewish people in Vienna. erdstein was born in Vienna in 1938, shortly after the annexation of austria into the german Reich. there, his family experienced the “Kristallnacht,” otherwise known as “the night of Broken glass” due to the broken windows of Jewish-owned properties ransacked by nazis. the erdstein family came to the united states as refugees in 1939. Islander file Photo

ON AMI Thursday, Dec. 28 9 a.m. — Manatee County Parks and Natural Resources Seashell Shore Walk, Coquina Beach, Bradenton Beach. Information: 941-742-5923.

ONGOING OFF AMI Saturdays, 9 a.m., Mornings at the NEST, Robinson Preserve, 10299 Ninth Ave. NW, Bradenton. Information: 941-742-5923, mymanatee.org.

A Hair Day Salon & Spa

SAVE THE DATE Jan. 4, Bayfront Park Cleanup, Anna Maria.

Jan. 4, Game Night at the Nest, Bradenton.

CALENDAR NOTES KEEP THE DATES Through Jan. 1, Kwanzaa.

Dec. 31, New Year’s Eve. Jan. 1, New Year’s Day. Jan. 15, Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Send notices to calendar@islander.org.

day and an hour before showtime and also online at theislandplayers.org.

Performances of Agatha Christie’s play will be 7:30 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday and 2 p.m. Sunday.

The theater, 10009 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria, is dark Monday.

The director is Heiko Knipfelberg.

For more information, call the box office at 941778-5755.

Flashback ’23 Submit social news to news@islander.org. Please, include time, date and location for events, as well as a contact name and phone number for publication. And, thanks for sharing!

WE’VE GOT YOU COVERED.

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Page 12 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Dec. 27, 2023 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Flashback ’23

Flashback ’23

Delaney mcfadden, 13, and Haley lahmen, 11, frolic Jan. 1 in the brisk, 62 degree waters of the gulf of mexico at cortez Beach during the shamrock shiver in Bradenton Beach.

tommy Decarlo performs Jan. 21, including hits

by Boston such as “more than a feeling,” with special guests august Zadra and Jimmy leahey and a touring band at the center of anna maria Island. Islander file Photo: Jacob merrifield

Holmes Beach resident Deidre “Deedee” Hanlon, center — and others at the table — cheer in celebration Jan. 13 on becoming the first winner on bingo night. Islander file Photo: Ryan Paice

Flashback ’23

Flashback ’23

Jim Hassett explains bingo rules to patrons Jan. 19 at the annie silver community center in Bradenton Beach. Islander file Photo: Robert anderson

Tiki & Kitty’s

Here comes 2024! It’s time to join Tiki and

Kitty on their round of shopping, looking for decor and bargains galore to lift their spirits in the new year. Make this the year to shop the best.

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.

You can always find a perfect vintage treasure 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

4HUR 3AT 0RIVATE SHOPPING BY APPT TH 3T % \ "RADENTON .7 CORNER TH -ANATEE !VE

Your place for fun, funky

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MULTI-VENDORS & LOCAL ARTISTS

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Sales & Workshops

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Scavengers Marketplace SRQ 1175 N Washington Blvd Scavengers Palmetto 2100 US Hwy 301

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

4307 26th St. W. Bradenton 941.782.8883

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

By Robyn Murrell

Anna Maria Elementary fifth-grader Copper Pitkin Dec. 19 ends the class show with a spirited performance of the hit song “Let It Go” from the popular Disney movie “Frozen.”

Flashback ’23

TOP LEFT: Anna Maria Elementary fifth-grade students, dressed in Santa and Mrs. Claus costumes, take centerstage Dec. 19 at the school, 4700 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. The students performed their “Winter Wonderland North Pole” musical by day for the student body and at night for family, friends and others.

Islander Photos: Robyn Murrell

AME Calendar

• Through Jan. 8, no school, winter break.

• Jan. 9, students return from winter break.

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

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

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

• Sunday, Feb. 11, 3 p.m., PTO family social, “Souper Bowl”

party, Center of Anna Maria Island, Anna Maria.

• Monday, Feb. 19, Presidents Day, no school.

• Wednesday, March 6, early release at 1:50 p.m.

• Friday, March 15, teacher workday, no school.

• March 25-29, spring break, no school.

AME is at 4700 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach.

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

$400,413

Raised to date

Anna Maria Elementary kindergarten teacher Kelly Crawford, left, media specialist Lynne McDonough, art and drama teacher Gary Wooten and student support specialist Ivory Graham pose March 25 in the marine science room at the Holmes Beach school. All four educators retired at the end of the school year. Islander File Photo: Courtesy AME

Help us raise our 2024 target of $40,000! $38,129 2023

16

5) 4&"40/

As so many of our Florida neighborhoods go through rough times, determined members of the Bradenton community are "taking the plunge" to help less fortunate children of Manatee County. Sponsored by Clancy's Irish Pub & Grill, well known for its community fundraisers, volunteers will brave the chilly Gulf waters for donations from family, friends and local businesses.

5)& .064&53"1

The event will take place on January 1st, 2024 at noon on Bradenton Beach (Gulf Drive between 4th St South and 12st St South). 100% of the proceeds will fund Feeding Empty Little Tummies, Healthy Teens and Take Stock in Children of Manatee County, all 501(c)3 nonprofit organizations.

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A Post-Plunge Party will follow at Clancy's, 6218 Cortez Road West, Bradenton 34210, with auctions, doors prices and music by the Dr. Dave Band putting the "fun" in fundraising!

To plunge for pledges or donate to the cause, please call Clancy's at (941) 794-2489.

Page 14 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Dec. 27, 2023 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Gathering By lisa neff

St. B collecting for sale

Organizers of the St. Bernard Catholic Church rummage sales are collecting donations 9 a.m.-noon Mondays — except on holidays — at the church.

The church, 248 S. Harbor Drive, Holmes Beach, hosts periodic two-day rummage sales, offering household goods, collectibles, books, clothing, accessories and other items.

The next sale dates are Friday-Saturday, Feb. 23-24.

For more information, call the church office at 941-778-4769.

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 program and hours Dec. 31. Information: 941-383-6491.

SAVE THE DATE Jan. 21, Episcopal Church of the Annunciation annual meeting and brunch, Holmes Beach.

Feb. 10, Episcopal Church of the Annunciation White Elephant sale, Holmes Beach.

Feb. 13 Shrove Tuesday/Mardi Gras.

Feb. 14, Ash Wednesday.

Feb. 23-24, St. Bernard Catholic Church rummage sale, Holmes Beach.

Flashback ’23

the Revs. Doug King, left, matt grunfield, stephen King, Dirk Rodgers and matt nowicki stand with sandy Haas-martens of the island Kiwanis club and vocalist morgan Bryant for the closing of the 58th annual sunrise service. Islander file Photo: Bonner Joy

ONGOING ON AMI

a.m., Just Older Youth group.

CrossPointe Fellowship, 8605 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach.

St. Bernard Catholic Church, 248 S. Harbor Drive, Holmes Info: 941-778-0719, crosspointefellowship.church.

Beach. Info: 941-778-4769, stbernardcc.org, office@stbernardcc.

Worship: Sundays, 9 a.m. org.

Ongoing: Wednesdays, 7 a.m., men’s Bible meeting; WednesWorship: Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m.; Saturdays, 4 p.m.; Sundays, 6 p.m., Wednesday Night Blast supper and 6:30 p.m., Wednesdays, 8:30 a.m., 10:30 a.m. day Night Blast; Fridays, 10 a.m. women’s Bible meeting.

Ongoing: Monday-Friday, 8 a.m., rosary; Wednesdays, 7:30 Episcopal Church of the Annunciation, 4408 Gulf Drive, a.m.; Rosary on the Beach at Manatee Public Beach; Saturdays, 3 Holmes Beach. Info: 941-778-1638, amiannunciation.org. p.m., confession.

Worship: Thursdays, 9:30 a.m.; Sundays, 8 a.m. and 10:15 a.m.

ONGOING OFF AMI Ongoing: Most Wednesdays, 8 a.m., men’s breakfast; MonChrist Church of Longboat Key Presbyterian USA, 6400 days, 1 p.m., book club.

Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key. Info: 941-900-4903, christchurGloria Dei Lutheran Church, 6608 Marina Drive. Holmes choflbk.org.

Beach. Info: 941-778-1813, gloriadeilutheran.com.

Worship: Sundays, 10 a.m.

Worship: Sundays, 9:30 a.m., followed by coffee and fellowOngoing: Wednesdays, 10 a.m., Women’s Bible Study; Monship. days, 9 a.m., Men’s Bible Study.

Ongoing: First Sundays, food bank collections; Wednesdays, Longboat Island Chapel, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat 9:30 a.m., women’s social gathering.

Key. Info: 941-383-6491, longboatislandchapel.org.

Harvey Memorial Community Church, 300 Church Ave., Worship: Sundays, 10 a.m.

Bradenton Beach. Information: 941-779-1912.

Ongoing: Mondays, 4 p.m., choir practice.

Worship: Sundays, 9:15 a.m.

Temple Beth Israel, 567 Bay Isles Road, Longboat Key. Info: Roser Memorial Community Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna 941-383-3428.

Maria. Information: 941-778-0414, roserchurch.com.

Worship: Fridays, Shabbat, 5:30 p.m.; Saturdays, 10 a.m.

Worship: Sundays, 8:30 a.m., 10 a.m.

Ongoing: Tuesdays, Thursdays, 9:30 a.m., RoserRobics; TuesGET LISTED, CHANGE LISTINGS days, 2 p.m., women’s book study; first and third Wednesdays, 11:30 Send listings to calendar@islander.org.

Obituaries

Linda Louise Massimo

Flashback ’23

Flashback ’23 Beth Hauck, gloria Dei lutheran church’s social ministry chair, and Barbara Bohner, cochair of the church’s annual pajama drive, sort contributions in march. the church, 6608 marina Drive, Holmes Beach, collected 94 pairs of PJs to donate to the safe children’s coalition for kids entering foster care. Islander file Photo

Roser guild co-presidents nancian Hall and cherrie Birkman welcome guests to the Valentine’s Day tea in february at the church.

Islander file Photo: courtesy Peggy nash

i.wed

The Islander Wedding Directory T ACCOM ACCOMMODATIONS MM Bungalow Beach Resort DIRECTLY ON THE BEACH! Classic 1930s island-style resort.

800-779-3601 bungalow@bungalowbeach.com www.bungalowbeach.com WEDDING CAKES HOMETOWN DESSERTS 507 Pine Ave., Anna Maria 941-896-3167

MUSIC/ENTERTAINMENT Chuck Caudill Entertainment Beach weddings and events. DJ, live guitar and more from an experienced island professional.

941-778-5676 • www.chuckcaudill.com Gulf Drive Band The Best! Classic Danceable Tunes Musical Entertainment DJ for Weddings, Receptions.

Call: 941-778-0173. email: gulfdriveband@gmail.com

TO BE INCLUDED IN IWED, CONTACT ISLANDER SALES DIRECTOR TONI LYON 941.928.8735 OR toni@islander.org

Linda Louise Massimo, 71, of Bradenton, died Dec. 5 at Tidewell Hospice of Bradenton.

She was born in Urbana, Ohio, in 1952, to John and Louise Massie.

She grew up in Ohio, moving with family to Ellenton, Florida, when she was 14 years old. She graduated from Palmetto High School. She began working young, and at 16 was in the high school work program, where she massimo was a receptionist at Borden Chemical Plant in Manatee County. Her career path led her to condominium management, where she spent many years as a manager for several condo associations, including Woodpark at Desoto Square and Meadowcroft, both in Bradenton and Mount Vernon Condo-

Growing in Jesus’ Name

Please, see ObITUaRIEs, neXt Page

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

Visitors & Residents Welcome tĂƚĐŚ KƵƌ 1Ϭ͗ϬϬ AM ^ĞƌǀŝĐĞ >iǀĞ͗ www.bit.ly/cclbksermons Žƌ www.christchurchof lbk.org (ĨŽůůŽǁ zŽƵdƵďĞ ůŝŶkͿ

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

IN PERSON • ONLINE Just shepherds.

Yet, God chooses them to hear great news that brings great JOY. Their message continues to inspire rejoicing!

SEE YOU SUNDAY! 8:30 AM & 10:00 AM 941-778-0414 • 512 Pine Ave, Anna Maria • FOLLOW us on Facebook @RoserChurch

Dec. 27, 2023 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 15 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Flashback ’23

Flashback ’23 Police vehicles block the intersection may 12 at marina and gulf drives, where a truck driven by michael Ritchie, 43, of Bradenton, collided with two pedestrians crossing gulf Drive. officers from the Holmes Beach Police Department arrived first to the scene and called the manatee county sheriff’s office for an assist. manatee county emergency medical services transported the pedestrians, miriam and Deborah trotter of Holmes Beach, to Hca florida Blake Hospital in Bradenton. miriam later died. Deborah trotter was treated and released. the driver, Ritchie, was cited for “failing to yield right of way to pedestrian at intersection with traffic control device,” according to the HBPD. Islander file Photo: courtesy HBPD ObITUaRIEs fRom Page 14

minium Association in Cortez.

Upon retirement in 2018, Mrs. Massimo enjoyed spending time with her grandson and traveling with her daughter.

A private family service was held. Memorial donations to Tidewell Hospice of Bradenton will be greatly appreciated.

Mrs. Massimo is survived by daughter ChrisAnn and husband William and their son, Aiden.

Cynthia Ann Richmond

Aquarium in Newport, Kentucky, working with South African penguins, otters and lorikeets.

After retirement, she moved with her husband to Anna Maria Island, where she volunteered for Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring and joined the Anna Maria Island Garden Club.

Her smile and connection to nature made her a beautiful soul that will always be in our hearts.

A celebration of life will be held in the spring.

Memorial donations may be made to Tidewell Hospice, Bradenton Hospice House, 2504 34th Ave. W., Bradenton, FL 34205, or to AMITW, P.O. Box 1114, Holmes Beach, FL 34218.

Mrs. Richmond is survived by husband Joseph R.; children Justin and wife Amber and Renee husband Kevin Bohman; grandchildren Brody, Jacob and Logan; brother-in-law Fred; sister Patricia Tapke; brother Timothy Tapke and wife Barbara.

Cynthia Ann Richmond, 70, of Bradenton and formerly of Anna Maria, died Dec. 14.

She was born Dec. 5, 1953, and raised in Cincinnati, Ohio, to the late Raymond H. and Mary J. Tapke.

She was a technical writer by profession but her true passion was volunteering. She was active in therapeutic horseback riding programs for children with disabilities. She volun- At your service Obituaries are offered as a teered for many years at the Newport community service. Submit to news@islander.org.

Richmond

a u.s. marine corps color guard presents the american flag and marine corps Battle color may 29, during anna maria’s memorial Day and centennial celebration. Islander file Photo

Gathering is the religion page for The

Islander. Send notices to calendar@islander.org.

Private Practice • Convenient to Island • Accepts Most Insurances

Stephen J. Pere, DMD

Dental & Hygienist Excellence • Compassionate Care 6404 Manatee Ave W, Suite C, Bradenton • 941-761-9300

WE ROCK ONLINE

RELEASE DATE: 12/24/2023

islander.org

New York Times Sunday Magazine Crossword

No. 1217 POLITICAL PUN-DITRY

BY ZACHARY DAVID LEVY AND JEFF CHEN / EDITED BY WILL SHORTZ Zachary David Levy is an assistant professor of neurosurgery and emergency medicine at Hofstra’s Zucker School of Medicine on Long Island. This is his sixth crossword for The Times and his first Sunday. Jeff Chen, of Seattle, is a writer and longtime crossword contributor. Zachary initially submitted a smaller version of this puzzle with three theme entries for the daily paper — but the theme felt better suited for a Sunday, with more examples. He enlisted Jeff to help. — W. S.

AC R O S S 54 Japanese maker of 113 Salted ____ 14 Went trekking, say watches and mobile (margarita option) 15 Hwy. that runs from 1 Whiskered bottomphones Key West to Maine 114 Natural hairstyles, dweller 57 ‘‘Little ol’ me?’’ informally 16 Flat earth?

7 Workout focus, 58 Online command 116 Green region on a 18 Whiskey ingredient informally denoted by an arrow Risk board 19 See 9-Down 13 Tube traveler? inside a cloud 119 Swelters 17 BOGO or YOLO 61 ‘‘____ Day Will Come’’ 120 The paid escort was 20 One way to wish 22 P, to Plato 19 Ten-spot (1963 No. 1 hit) fined for . . .

29 Physique, slangily 20 Like Jabba the Hutt 62 The sound engineer 125 Stave off was obsessed with 31 Beverage brand 21 The club’s bouncer 126 How subway cars the . . . with antioxidants earned are packed during 67 Big name in filters 32 Something with a a living . . . rush hour preview in a social 69 Unagi or anago 23 Subjects of some 127 Place of birth, media post 70 Family on TV’s cautionary tales education, work 33 Up to ‘‘Smallville’’ history, etc.

24 Things with keys 34 AOL, e.g.

71 The groundskeeper 128 What a haggler 25 Org. overseeing spent years studying 35 ____ Stic (pen brand) hopes workers’ well-being ...

36 Name hidden in ‘‘I to pay 26 Treatment site 78 Besson who directed 129 Exchanged words? smell 27 Insurance giant ‘‘The Fifth Element’’ a rat’’ 130 Like some rehab acquired by CVS in 79 Food critic’s asset 37 Coat for a cookout 2018 80 Ex-Giant Manning 41 Plot device for many a DOWN 28 Bump on a log, say soap opera 81 Extreme lethargy 1 Polite term of address 42 Eccentric 30 The fashion 85 Inner self, in magazine’s editor 2 Where Carol Burnett Jungian philosophy 43 Relative of studied theater arts, focused on fasteners Camembert 88 Business-card abbr. for short in her . . .

44 Lead-in to service 89 Instrument heard at 3 ‘‘Just happen to’’ 35 Hubbub or sacrifice the conclusion mention some 38 The Coyotes, on of ‘‘Bohemian 46 Dr. who wrote: ‘‘I like famous people N.H.L. scoreboards Rhapsody’’ nonsense. It wakes 4 Eat up the brain cells’’ 91 Courtroom 39 Leader of a flock 5 Director Lee affirmation 47 Rent 40 The veterinarian 77 Chinese dynasty 64 Kick back 6 An eye for an aye, say? 51 Customer-service 92 French term of specialized in 82 Where one might 65 Brooding bunch endearment 7 Low island ‘‘assistant,’’ at times mending . . . store sheet music 66 Strongly suspecting 94 The weary general sat 8 Hole puncher 52 Cry of frustration 45 Most wan 83 So-called ‘‘All-Father’’ 67 Singer Mars in his . . .

9 19-Down for a 55 Goddess depicted at 48 Wrath of myth 100 Orange sources cleanup hitter the foot of King Tut’s 68 Velodrome vehicles 49 Obnoxious sort 84 Golf champ McIlroy 71 ____ rock, genre for coffin 103 Item of clothing 10 Kirsten of 1995’s 50 Seaside retreat?

86 Salts T. Rex patented by Mary ‘‘Jumanji’’ 56 Goes (for) 53 Event that might have 87 In and between Phelps Jacob in 1914 11 Summer cooler 58 ‘‘I’m at your disposal’’ 72 Kind of milk ‘‘mutton busting’’ 90 The Vitamin 104 Niche 73 Encouraging shout 12 ____ Baiul, Olympic 59 Game divided into Shoppe competitor 105 The carpenter periods called 74 Soft powder figure-skating gold Online subscriptions: Today’s measured twice for chukkers medalist 75 Fifth-brightest star in 93 ‘‘____ had it!’’ puzzle and more the ideal . . .

Answers: 95 Obliques, e.g.

60 Hockey fake the night sky 13 Musical feature in than 4,000 past puzzles, 111 Emmy winner Aduba nytimes.com/crosswords ‘‘Swan Lake’’ and page 24 63 Virgil at the O.K. 76 Race in H. G. Wells’s 96 Reason to remove ($39.95 a year).

112 It’s done in barrels ‘‘Peter and the Wolf’’ metal accessories Corral ‘‘The Time Machine’’

97 Butter bit 98 Grand finale?

99 Things indicated by yellow signage 101 Company acquired

by Morgan Stanley in 2020 102 Having needles, as a cactus 105 Secret clique 106 Southwestern syrup source 107 Muscat native

108 Dicey 109 Foe in the Elder Scrolls video games 110 Neophyte, informally 115 Small cut 117 Analogy words 118 ‘‘Pronto!’’

121 Winter hrs. in ChiTown 122 Undershirt, maybe 123 Tired 124 Melted mess

Page 16 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Dec. 27, 2023 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

flashback fRom Page 9

Bradenton Beach Marina in new hands: City attorney Ricinda Perry discussed developments at a city meeting surrounding an offer from developer Shawn Kaleta to finance an upgrade of a city-owned parking lot on Church Avenue near the Bradenton Beach Marina, 402 Church Ave. The announcement confirmed a badly kept secret: Kaleta had purchased the marina.

Pines Park offer to buy land rejected: The ownership of the Pines Trailer Park in Bradenton Beach rejected a purchase offer from the homeowners.

HB racer hits big $100K prize: McKenna Kitterman, a Holmes Beach resident and University of Central Florida student, won the Drag Illustrated World Series of Pro Mod held at Bradenton Motorsports Park.

HB roadwork pushed back: City engineer Sage Kamiya said Sarasota-based C-Squared CGC Inc. was projected to reopen Gulf Drive by the end of March and to reach substantial completion on the city center project by the end of April. “We’re getting close,” he said.

AM approves Mote extension: City commissioners voted to extend by 14 days a March 10 deadline for Mote to apply for a certificate of occupancy for an outreach center at the city pier.

Cortez Bridge challengers’ appeal dismissed: A federal appeal effort ended for a group challenging the Florida Department of Transportation’s plan to build a Cortez-Bradenton Beach megabridge.

AMOB negotiates expansion: Bradenton Beach commissioners and the mayor voted to approve changes to the Anna Maria Oyster Bar agreement allowing for an expansion of outdoor service at the Historic Bridge Street Pier.

Man drowns at AMI beach: A 75-year-old Georgia man drowned after losing his footing and falling in anna maria island Anna Maria C RIsland EAMERY Anna Maria CREAMERY & BA K ERY Island Fresh MadeSorbet In-House Gelato, CREAMERY Gelato, Custard & Sorbet

Flashback ’23

the Gulf of Mexico in Bradenton Beach.

Magistrate rules former HB commissioner violated code: Special magistrate Michael Connolly found former Holmes Beach Commissioner Jayne Christenson in violation of city code for advertising only a portion of her property at 132 49th St. as a vacation rental unit.

Early forecast: Average Atlantic hurricane season ahead: An early projection suggested the Atlantic hurricane season would bring 11-15 named storms.

Ian, Fiona get retired: The World Meteorological Organization’s hurricane committee retired Fiona and Ian from the rotating lists of Atlantic tropical cyclone names due to the death and destruction the storms caused.

MPO adopts transportation priorities: The Sarasota/Manatee Metropolitan Planning Organization board met March 27 in Sarasota and approved a list of priorities for the region.

Deep well completed for Piney Point: A Fort Myers company completed a deep injection well to hold wastewater from the Piney Point phosphogypsum stacks in east Manatee County.

Visit islander.org for the best news on aMi.

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April Army corps seeks input on dredge project: The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers was dredging up public opinion about a proposed project in a large section of the Intracoastal Waterway.

County begins wastewater transfer at Piney Point: Manatee County transferred about 1.9 million gallons of industrial wastewater into a deep injection well the first week of April.

Churches call for pantry aid: Island churches in April were calling for help in restocking the Roser Food Pantry in Anna Maria.

Worshippers gather for 58th annual Kiwanis Easter service: The Kiwanis Club of Anna Maria Island held the 58th annual Easter sunrise service at the Manatee Public Beach in Holmes Beach.

Bradenton Beach chief takes code enforcement under his belt: City commissioners took steps to fill a vacancy created when Ron Peterson left the city in December 2022. The code department also moved over to the police department.

BB commission OKs agreement for water taxi: Bradenton Beach commissioners voted to approve revisions to an interlocal agreement with Manatee County for a water taxi service between Bradenton, Please, see flashback, neXt Page

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a sign advertising a gofundme campaign to “Help unbeach lucky us 2” hangs feb. 24 from a post supporting tape that cautions people to stay back from a beached sailboat. the boat crashed feb. 12 onto the shores of Holmes Beach near 79th street after its crew was rescued by the u.s. coast guard.

Islander file Photo: Ryan Paice

Here’s wishing you all a very happy 2024!

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Dec. 27, 2023 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 17 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

of specific projects.”

Tourism council backs Coquina trail plan: The county tourist development council reviewed and backed a plan to rebuild a multipurpose beach path in Bradenton Beach.

Cortez Seafood Shack hits the market: Vandyk Properties, a Canadian-based development company and owner of the Seafood Shack, put the restaurant and surrounding properties on the market for $15 million.

HB gives nod to restaurant site plan: City commissioners reached consensus to move forward with a site plan and outdoor dining request for the Bohemian Restaurant, 5910 Marina Drive, owned by Tampa chef and Anna Maria Island native Jeannie Pierola.

flashback from page 16

Bradenton Beach and Anna Maria.

AMI cities unite on water quality campaign: Anna Maria Island’s three cities were leading a combined effort to improve local water quality.

Final phase of restoration starts at preserve: The Florida Institute for Saltwater Heritage in Cortez began completing the final part of a four-phase project begun in 2000 to return a 95-acre parcel to a natural state.

New turtle watch leader named: Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch announced that Kristen Mazzarella was the new executive director and would succeed Suzi Fox, who died in 2022.

Pharmaceuticals found in Tampa Bay redfish: Florida International University and Bonefish & Tarpon Trust conducted a yearlong study and reported finding pharmaceutical contaminants in the blood and other tissues of redfish.

HOA purchase of Pines park fails: Negotiations failed between the land owner and the homeowners in the Pines Trailer Park in Bradenton Beach.

1st turtle nest marked on AMI: A female loggerhead crawled ashore April 18 on AMI, creating the first sea turtle nest of the 2023 season just days after Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring began patrolling the beaches.

County, Corps consider park project near Skyway: Will a spoil island or spit of new land reside someday in the shade of the Sunshine Skyway Bridge?

Manatee County commissioners in April gave the goahead for their chair and their director of their parks and natural resources department to work with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers on a “Skyway Island Boat Ramp/ Park.”

Bradenton Beach puts paid parking study into drive: Commissioners approved a motion for a paid parking study and directed city attorney Ricinda Perry, Mayor John Chappie, building official Steve Gilbert, public works director Tom Woodard and Police Chief John Cosby to research and seek quotes for a paidparking program for city-owned lots.

Fire district advances rate hike: West Manatee Fire Rescue District commissioners voted unanimously to draft a resolution establishing a 4% increase in fire assessment rates for the fiscal year beginning Oct. 1.

Flashback ’23 Connie Morrow, head of the Cortez Bridge Aesthetics Committee, explains concepts in the design of the bridge at a Jan. 31 forum hosted by the DOT. Islander File Photo: Robert Anderson

AM settles litigation over party houses: City commissioners voted on motions to approve settlement agreements with the owners of property at 205 S. Bay Blvd. — Beach to Bay Investments Inc. — and at 313 Magnolia Ave. — Mangoes on Magnolia LLC. TDC backs $425K water taxi subsidy: Tourism officials showed enthusiasm for the prospect of launching a ferry service between Bradenton and Anna Maria Island for the July 4 weekend by recommending the county subsidize the service.

MCSO rescues swimmers at north end: Deputies with the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office rescued two swimmers — a man and a child — swimming off Bean Point.

State to study Cortez Road corridor: The Florida Department of Transportation secured support from Manatee County commissioners for its “Cortez Road Vision and Action Plan” study after outlining a need for a “refined vision for the corridor and identification

May Anna Maria-Mote center opens: Opening day finally arrived May 5 for the Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium Outreach Center at the Anna Maria City Pier.

Parking garage bill heads to DeSantis: Legislation that would allow Manatee County to construct a parking garage in Holmes Beach despite the city’s height limits and ban on such structures was sent to the governor.

HB construction picks up again, local businesses suffer: Work on Manatee County’s force main replacement project on Holmes Boulevard was again ramping up and businesses in the “downtown” area of Holmes Beach were finding access to their shopping centers and stores limited.

Anna Maria rejects bid for Pine Ave.: Anna Maria commissioners voted to reject an undisclosed bid from Sarasota-based C-Squared CGC to complete sidewalk improvements along the commercial corridor.

Cortez stone crab season claws to a close: Flor-

please, see flashback, Page 22

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Cops & Courts

Michigan woman accused of possessing fake IDs

Holmes Beach police arrested Grace McGlynn, 20, of Battle Creek, Michigan, Dec. 5 on a thirddegree felony for allegedly possessing fake driver’s licenses.

McGlynn also faces a first-degree misdemeanor charge for allegedly providing false information to law enforcement officers.

Two officers at Manatee Public Beach, 4000 Gulf Drive, at about 1:34 a.m. found a couple on the beach with an open bottle of wine, so they approached and requested identification.

A man provided valid information and was released from the scene.

A woman later identified as McGlynn had identified herself to police as “Grace Smith,” an ID that dispatch could not confirm.

The officers repeatedly requested her identification but McGlynn “persistently provided false information,” according to a police report.

The officers searched her bag, finding two Illinois licenses bearing her name and a false date of birth, as well as a Michigan license that yielded a positive ID. McGlynn was taken to the Manatee County jail, where she was released the same day after posting $2,000 bond.

If convicted, punishment for a third-degree felony charge includes up to five years in prison, five years of probation and a fine of up to $5,000.

Punishment for a first-degree misdemeanor charge includes up to one year in jail, one year of probation and a fine of up to $1,000.

An arraignment will be at 9 a.m. Friday, Jan. 26, at the Manatee County Judicial Center, 1051 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton.

Streetlife

Island police reports

Anna Maria No new reports.

The Manatee County Sheriff’s Office polices Anna Maria.

Bradenton Beach Dec. 13, 400 block of Church Avenue, Bradenton Beach Marina, burglary. Bradenton Beach police responded to the theft of equipment from a boat in dry dock. The officer issued a victim’s rights pamphlet and interviewed staff.

Dec. 14, 200 Gulf Drive N., The Beach House, fraud. Staff reported a customer ate a meal and after receiving a bill said he was experiencing chest pains and asked for an ambulance. The man was checked and cleared by emergency medical services and afterward was asked to pay his bill. He said he had no money. He was arrested for intent to defraud, transported to HCA Florida Blake in Bradenton and then to the Manatee County jail in Palmetto.

Dec. 18, 2400 block of Gulf Drive South, larceny.

A person living on a boat in the bay reported the theft of an outboard motor. An officer filed a report and entered stolen property information with the Florida Crime Information Center.

The Bradenton Beach Police Department polices the city.

Cortez No new reports.

The MCSO polices Cortez.

Flashback ’23

Holmes Beach Dec. 18, Publix, 3900 E. Bay Drive, trespass warning. A Holmes Beach police officer responded to a trespassing complaint and found a man in a patch of bushes behind the store’s loading dock. The officer spoke to the man, who smelled of alcohol and had bottles of liquor nearby, but he was uncooperative. The officer spoke to a store manager, who verbally issued a trespass warning to the man while police supervised.

The man left the area without issue.

HBPD polices Holmes Beach.

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

RoadWatch

Eyes on the road

• Anna Maria Island Bridge on State Road 64/Manatee Avenue: Single-lane closures can be expected 7 p.m.-6 a.m. through December.

• City center in Holmes Beach: Manatee County’s work on Holmes Boulevard, Marina Drive and side streets continues.

• Gulf Drive in Bradenton Beach: Manatee is working on sewer lines along Gulf Drive South. The contractor will suspend activities Dec. 18-Jan. 1, leaving Gulf Drive and side streets accessible.

— lisa neff

manatee county sheriff’s office Deputies serissa thompson and Kevin Vreeland patrol on horseback — Peanut and grady — just off anna maria Island over memorial Day weekend.

Islander file Photo: courtesy mcso/twitter

— Ryan Paice

Island watch

In an emergency, call 911. To report info, call the MCSO Anna Maria, 941-708-8899; Bradenton Beach police, 941-778-6311; Holmes Beach police, 941-708-5804.

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KRC golf news, horseshoes cap sports on AMI

amI Pitchers gather at the pits at anna maria cIty Hall Dec. 20 to present $730 to Kelly Pinkskey of meals on Wheels of manatee county prior to match play, continuing a tradition of donating to local charities. Islander courtesy Photo

By Kevin P. cassidy Islander Reporter

Golf action at the Key Royale Club in Holmes Beach got started Dec. 18 with the men’s weekly modified-Stableford system match. John Cassese and John Purcell finished at plus-3 to tie for first place. Earl Ritchie was alone in second place at plus-2, while Jim Bailey and Brian Hogan were another cassidy point back in a tie for third.

The week of golf ended with members teeing up Dec. 21 for a modified scramble over nine holes. The team of Rich Salzburg, Tom Solosky and Steve Vasbinder matched the 2-under-par 30 carded by the team of Janelle Clements, Ken Nagengast and Greg Shorten for a two-way tie for first place.

At the Anna Maria City Hall horseshoe pits, prior to the Dec. 20 games, the AMI Pitchers met Kelly

Pindskey of Meals on Wheels of Manatee County and made a donation of $730, carrying on the group’s longstanding tradition.

Regular action saw two teams advance to the knockout round after each team forged 3-0 records during pool play. Bob Palmer earned the day’s bragging rights on the strength of a 21-14 win over Adin Shank and Gary Howcroft.

The Dec. 23 games saw fellow New England natives Bob Mason and Bob Lee team up to forge the lone 3-0 pool play record and the day’s championship.

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.

Play ball! Pirates set spring training schedule The Pittsburgh Pirates will be Bradenton-bound in less than two months and, yes, the Cutch is back.

The Pirates announced Dec. 20 that they resigned centerfielder Andrew McCutchen to a one-year contract.

The Pirates’ spring training schedule for the 2024 Grapefruit League season includes 31 games, 16 of which will be at played at LECOM Park in Bradenton.

Opening Day will be Saturday, Feb. 24, as the team travels to Fort Myers to take on the Minnesota Twins.

The Pirates home opener will be Sunday, Feb. 25, against the Baltimore Orioles.

Additional highlights of the 2024 Spring Training

schedule include: • March 10, the Pirates will host the Philadelphia Phillies for the only time.

• March 17, the Pirates will host the Tampa Bay Rays on St. Patrick’s Day. • March 23, the Pirates will host the Boston Red Sox for the only time.

• March 24, the Pirates will host the New York Yankees for the only time.

• March 25, the spring training campaign concludes with a home game against the Toronto Blue Jays.

For more information, including game times and ticket pricing, go to pirates.com/springtraining.

—lisa neff

Kids and tennis coach cody Wright wrap up the first session of the future aces Junior tennis program at the center of anna maria Island. the next sessions will run Jan. 2-4. for more information, email youthprograms@centerami.org or call 941-778-1908.

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Flashback ’23 the amI Paddlers from Paradise, an island-based dragon-boat team, celebrate april 1 after competing in the Inverness Dragon Boat festival in the citrus county. Islander file Photo

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Dec. 27, 2023 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 21 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Challenging weather leads to changes in bait, locations By capt. Danny stasny Islander Reporter

Anglers are getting out to do some fishing during the winter break but weather conditions make it challenging.

Some know-how and determination combined with a little luck are factors coming into play as strong breezes from the north combined with cold fronts frequent our area.

The conditions trigger drops in water stasny temperatures, which can make the fish finicky.

The use of live shrimp as bait is firmly established as water temps hover in the high 50s to low 60s. In cooler temps, the fish aren’t motivated to chase down a shiner. So it’s off to the bait shop to buy shrimp.

Many species being targeted prefer to eat shrimp and other crustaceans.

Sheepshead, for example, have a diet that consists of crustaceans. So using a live shiner would be futile.

Pompano, also present in our waters in the winter, are another species that will go for shrimp.

And redfish, trout and snook switch their menu choices to shrimp during the winter.

Shrimp are slow-moving targets that require less energy and effort to eat than chasing down shiners.

And, with water temps as low as they are, you can bet fish are less motivated than during warmer times.

Locations where we fish change with the conditions as we experience cold days — and colder days.

Fishing the back bays and rivers is a good choice, as many species are searching for warmer water.

An increase of a couple of degrees can make a dramatic difference in the bite.

So try to find canals and seawalls or other areas with sun and warmer water, as such areas will probably hold fish.

And the shelter in the canals from the wind will help keep the anglers comfortable, too.

Lastly, try to pick days between the fronts, when the air and water temps have time to rise. On such days, you’ll probably find your best chances of catching fish. Fishing in the afternoon can be advantageous too, although warmer mornings can be productive.

a fever of cownose rays makes its way north Jan. 30 in the gulf of mexico, passing one of three beach jetties known as “three Piers.” according to the florida museum website, cownose rays prefer shallow, brackish water but tend to swim at the surface. cownose rays are common to anna maria Island waters and are known to migrate great distances.

Islander file Photo: Jacob merrifield

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Paityn Hutton, visiting anna maria Island from camas, Washington, shows off her catch, a “BIg” florida pompano, emphasized by her fishing guide, capt. David White. the pomp was caught Dec. 22 on a pompano jig. “I’m happy to see these fish moving in,” White, of anna maria charters, said.

On my Just Reel charters, I’m seeing a lot of redfish being reeled to the boat.

Fishing around rocks and docks with live shrimp as bait is leading to exceptional mornings. On some mornings more than two dozen reds are being caught, as well as a mix of sheepshead, black drum and an occasional flounder.

Migratory fish such as ladyfish and jack crevalle are being caught around the passes.

Jim Malfese at the Rod and Reel Pier reports that despite the pier being closed for a few days for repairs due to damages after the wet, windy weather we had Dec. 16-17, anglers are returning and catching plenty of fish.

Black drum and sheepshead are the primary catch, with redfish mixed in the bite. Malfese said pier fishers using live shrimp as bait coupled with a bottom rig are having good results.

Casting the shrimp under the pier among the pilings is getting the best action. Most of the black drum and sheepies being caught are of legal-size, which gives anglers the opportunity to take fish home for dinner. As for the reds, some are over-slot fish, exceed-

Flashback ’23

ing 27 inches in length, while some are falling in the slot of 18-27 inches.

Capt. David White says he’s catching sheepshead while working the inshore waters of Tampa Bay. Using live shrimp around rocks and docks is leading to some nice catches of the popular wintertime fish.

And he’s putting anglers on redfish and black drum in the same areas. Again, live shrimp are working as bait.

Targeting fish in areas where the water is slightly warmer is leading White to find a bite. Sunny places such as residential docks and deep canals, with black muddy bottoms are where warmer water might exist.

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

“my most memorable trip this year was by far the day spent with 12-year-old Izzy Heather. she came to fish aug. 3 from Pittsburgh, having just beat a rare form of bone cancer and her wish was to go with me on a charter.” — capt. David White of anna maria charters.

Page 22 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Dec. 27, 2023 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Flashback from page 17

ida stone crabbers hauled in their traps, leaving stone crabs to repopulate until Oct. 15, when the harvest season would begin anew.

Offer to buy Pines Park noticed: Homeowners in the Pines Trailer Park in Bradenton Beach received notice of an offer from an unknown entity seeking to purchase the park land.

Seaside Gardens residents hash over FEMA improvements: A handful of Seaside Gardens residents attended a Holmes Beach commission meeting to discuss a proposal to allow owners to raise their homes above the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s base flood elevation height.

New AME-PTO board installed: AME-PTO president Jen Serra, vice president Caroline Liebfried, secretary Morgan Blackburn and treasurer Jamie Hinckle were elected to head the school PTO for the next year.

Anna Maria’s outdoor market closes up: The 2022-23 season at the Anna Maria Farmers Market was slowing down before it ended May 9, evidenced by the absence of some of the 14 vendors in City Pier Park.

Feds show concern for bird casualties at Skyway: The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service committed to exploring options to address the injury and death of Tampa Bay birds at the Sunshine Skyway Fishing Pier State Park.

Safety measures follow deadly HB crash: Holmes Beach Police Chief Bill Tokajer told The Islander that the city was set to adjust the traffic signals at the intersection of Gulf and Marina drives to better protect pedestrians after a motorist struck two people in a crosswalk, injuring islander Deborah Trotter, and killing her mother, Miriam.

Seafood Shack owners extend negotiations: The owners of the Seafood Shack properties extended their timeline as they said they were negotiating for the sale of the Cortez property.

Feds forecast ‘near-normal’ hurricane season: The federal Atlantic hurricane season forecast called for a “near-normal” season of 12-17 named storms, including 5-9 hurricanes.

Island restaurant ordered to pay damages: The

Mahomes, a rescued and rehabilitated loggerhead, swims off during a release May 30 at Bayfront Park in Anna Maria. Onlookers gathered at the water’s edge to watch the release by Mote Marine Laboratory. Islander File Photo: Courtesy Mote Marine Laboratory

Flashback ’23 U.S. Department of Labor recovered $60,065 in back for the Manatee County School District’s Guy Harvey wages and damages for a former employee of Wicked Academy of Arts and Sciences, which is based at Anna Maria Elementary in Holmes Beach.

Cantina in Bradenton Beach.

Bradenton Beach welcomes new officers: Bradenton Beach Police Chief John Cosby introduced June Federal judge denies motion to dismiss dis- Evan Harbus as a code enforcement officer and Ryan crimination suit: Judge Charlene Honeywell of the Gagliano as a police officer during a city commission U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Florida meeting.

AMI water main collapses: There was a “catadenied the city of Holmes Beach’s motion to dismiss developer Shawn Kaleta’s lawsuit against the munici- strophic” collapse of one of two water mains to Anna Maria Island. About 1,000 feet of a 16-inch water main pality for its alleged “anti-Kaleta policy.”

Scenic highway extended on AMI: Florida attached to the underside of the Anna Maria Island Department of Transportation scenic highway coor- Bridge on Manatee Avenue collapsed, falling into dinator Darryl Richard announced that a request to Anna Maria Sound.

Gov. signs parking garage bill: Gov. Ron DeSanextend the Palma Sola Scenic Highway in Holmes tis filed a transmittal letter stating that he approved 10 Beach was approved.

State budget includes $1M for AME: Gov. Ron bills, including HB 947, filed by Rep. Will Robinson DeSantis’ budget, signed June 15, included funding Jr., R-Bradenton, and authorizing the county to construct a parking garage at Manatee Public Beach in Holmes Beach.

Editor’s note: Look for part 2 of The Islander’s Flashback 2023 special report in the Jan. 3 issue.

Flashback ’23

Co-owner Brianna Foster introduces guests from the Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce May 11 to the Porch Restaurant in Anna Maria. Islander File Photo: Toni Lyon

Danielle Mahon, Topsail Steamer owner, and manager Tiffany Kaminski welcome guests May 9 to the grand opening of their eatery in the Mainsail Plaza at 5321 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. Mahon, founder and CEO, opened her first brickand-mortar location in 2017 in Topsail Island, North Carolina.

She now has seven locations, including AMI, and they ship steamer pots to all 50 states. Islander File Photo: Toni Lyon BELOW: Recipients gather after receiving Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce funding from the Trolley Grant Giving Back program. A celebration took place Jan. 26 at the Seafood Shack in Cortez. Islander File Photo

LEFT: Developer Shawn Kaleta told The Islander Jan. 14 that he completed the purchase Jan. 11 of the Bradenton Beach Marina. Islander File Photo

Dec. 27, 2023 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 23 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Happy holidays on the Space Coast lisa neff, right, and wife, connie Wolgast, visit the Kennedy space center Dec. 10 during an early “christmas getaway” to florida’s space coast. their review after seeing the atlantis shuttle, a mercury rocket, astronaut Don thomas and much more? “It’s way better than Disney!” Islander Photo: lisa neff

By Lisa Neff

Skywatching in 2024

Hoping for another astronomical year?

Look up to the sky.

Twice a year, Sandscript provides a skywatch calendar, a glance at celestial occurrences to come.

We check the Old Farmer’s Almanac, NASA’s events calendars, the website for the American Meteor Society, resources from the U.S. neff Naval Observatory and “The Sky” from Sea and Sky. You can kick off 2024 by observing the Quadrantids Meteor Shower Jan. 1-5, peaking Jan. 3-4, with 40 meteors per hour. Sea and Sky says the waning gibbous moon will block out some of the fainter meteors but we still might get a good show.

There will be a new moon Jan. 11, providing an opportunity to look for faint objects — such as galaxies and star clusters — because there will be no moonlight.

A full moon — the Wolf Moon or Moon After Yule — arrives Jan. 25.

The rest of the calendar through June 30: • Feb. 9, new moon, when the moon is on the same side of the Earth as the sun and is not visible in the night sky. This will be the best time of the month to observe faint objects.

• Feb. 24, full moon, when the moon is on the opposite side of the Earth as the sun and its face is fully illuminated. This moon is known as the Snow Moon or the Hunger Moon.

• March 10, new moon, the best time of the month to observe faint objects.

• March 20, March equinox, when the sun shines directly on the equator and there are nearly equal amounts of day and night throughout the world.

In the Northern Hemisphere, this is our spring equinox, and, in the Southern Hemisphere, this is the fall equinox.

• March 24, Mercury reaches the greatest eastern elongation of 18.7 degrees from the sun and will be at its highest point above the horizon in the evening.

• March 25, full moon, known as the Worm Moon and also the Crow Moon, Crust Moon, Sap Moon and Lenten Moon.

• March 25, penumbral lunar eclipse, with the moon passing through the Earth’s partial shadow.

we’ll have a full moon and they might not be visible.

• April 23, full moon, known as the Pink Moon, and also Sprouting Grass Moon, Growing Moon, Egg Moon and Fish Moon.

• April; 19-May 28, Eta Aquarids Meteor Shower, which will peak May 6-7, producing 30 meteors per hour — in dark skies this year.

• May 8, new moon.

• May 9, Mercury reaches greatest western elongation of 26.4 degrees from the sun and will be at its highest point above the horizon in the morning sky.

• May 23, full moon, known as the Flower Moon, Corn Planting Moon and Milk Moon.

• June 6, new moon.

• June 20, June solstice, when the North Pole of the Earth will be tilted toward the sun, which will have reached its northernmost position in the sky and will be directly over the Tropic of Cancer.

For us, this is the first day of summer — the summer solstice — and for the Southern Hemisphere it is the first day of winter.

• June 22, full moon, known as the Strawberry Moon, Rose Moon and Honey Moon.

During such an eclipse, the moon darkens slightly but not completely. This one should be visible across North America.

• April 8, new moon, another good time to observe faint objects in the night sky.

• April 8, total solar eclipse, which occurs when the moon completely blocks the sun. Such an eclipse is a rare event for viewers in the United States and the next one will not take place until 2045.

However, we’ll have to travel to see the 2024 total eclipse. The path of totality will begin in the Pacific Ocean and move across parts of Mexico, the eastern United States and Nova Scotia. The total eclipse will be visible in parts of Texas, Arkansas, Missouri, Illi- Help looking up Sea and Sky at seasky.org is the best online nois, Indiana, Kentucky, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New resource.

York, Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine.

Night Sky is a free and useful smartphone app.

• April 16-25, Lyrids Meteor Shower, which might And, for space flight fans, download the Next produce about 20 meteors per hour at its peak April 22-23. The meteors can produce bright dust trails but Spaceflight app.

Flashback ’23

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a team removes electronics from a vehicle in the lineup at the annual manatee county e-scrap and Hazardous Waste collection in January. some materials are recycled, including the metals in electronics, and some are collected for safe disposal.

Islander file Photo: lisa neff

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Page 24 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Dec. 27, 2023 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

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

ANNOUNCEMENTS

SERVICES Continued

FREE KITCHEN TABLE with four chairs and two matching bar stools. Bradenton Beach.

Conrad, 973-652-1629.

EARLY DEADLINE: THE Islander office will be closed Monday, Jan. 1 to observe New Year’s Day. The classified deadline for the Jan. 3 edition classified ads will be 2 p.m.

Friday, Dec. 29.

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

GOLF GRIP/CLUB repair tools with toolbox.

Added bonus box of grips. $75/offer 941704-4332.

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

SPINET PIANO: NICE piece of furniture.

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

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.

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)

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

RDI CONSTRUCTION INC. Residential & Condo Renovations Kitchens • Bath • Design Service Carpentry • Flooring • Painting Commercial & Residential

References available • 941-720-7519

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

UNCLAIMED PROPERTY: 2006 Ford F250 blue, 1FTRX12W26FA44923. 2002 Ford F350 white, 1FTWX32S82EA07239. If interested claim on or before Jan. 12, 2024, at 6110 17th St. East, Bradenton, FL 34203.

Subject to all liens.

BOATS & BOATING

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.

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.

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

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

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

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.

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

Eamonn Fortune, 941-447-7737.

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

HELP WANTED 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. The Islander office, 315 58th St. Suite J, Holmes Beach.

ANSWERS TO Dec. 27 PUZZLE

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.

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

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.

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.

HEALTH CARE

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.

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.

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

941-920-3840.

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.

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.

LPN: DEPENDABLE, POSITIVE island resident available for care. BLS certified, references upon request. Lisa, 941-241-7474.

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.

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.

More ads = more readers in The Islander.

Dec. 27, 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 HOME IMPROVEMENT

RENTALS Continued

REAL ESTATE Continued

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

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.

WILDWOOD SPRINGS: TURNKEY furnished condo. Upgraded. Heated community pool and spa, minutes to beaches and shopping. $359,000. Real Estate Mart, 941-356-1456.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

REAL ESTATE SERVICES: Sales, rentals and property management at affordable rates.

30 years experience. Real Estate Mart, 941356-1456.

LONGBOAT KEY MOBILE home lot. Corner lot across the street from park amenities. $125,000. 941-744-6808.

SNOWBIRDS! FOR SALE: Vintage permanent 1BR/1BA RV at Sarasota Bay RV Park, 55-plus. $34,900. Current rate is $8,000 for five months = $1,600/month. Two miles from beaches straight down Cortez Road. Huge pool, pickleball courts, many park activities on Sarasota Bay! Call 810-577-6964.

EARLY DEADLINE: THE Islander office will be closed Monday, Jan. 1 to observe New Year’s Day. The classified deadline for the Jan. 3 edition classified ads will be 2 p.m.

Friday, Dec. 29.

Place classified ads online at islander.org Island Limousine and Airport Transportation

Prompt, Courteous Service U New Vehicles 941.779.0043

,IVERY )NSUREDs !IRPORT 0ERMITTED

ACROSS FROM BAY, Two miles to Anna Maria. 2BR/1BA fully furnished. Available February and March. All utilities, washer/dryer. $3,900 month. Family owned. 941-7731552.

WINTER SEASON RENTAL: Available January-May, located in Holmes Beach, two blocks to beach. 2BR/1.5BA, elev a t e d t o w n h o u s e , s l e e p s f o u r, n o pets. $4,200/month plus tax and fees.

Discount for more than one month. Call Anna Maria Realty, 941-778-2259. Dina@annamariareal.com.

CONDO RENTAL: 2BR/2BA in 55-plus community. Available Jan. 1, 2024. Three-month minimum. $3,500 per month includes all utilities. Fully furnished, pool and clubhouse.

Bradenton. 440-724-3126 for picture link.

EARLY DEADLINE: THE Islander office will be closed Monday, Jan. 1 to observe New Year’s Day. The classified deadline for the Jan. 3 edition classified ads will be 2 p.m.

Friday, Dec. 29.

Rick Turner

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REAL ESTATE 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.”

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.

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Page 26 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Dec. 27, 2023 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

isl

The Davises are not looking to fuel a bar atmosphere.

Black Bones Music has acts — blues, jazz, opera and philharmonic — booked throughout 2024. Performers will include the Trey Wanvig Band, country singer Andy Pursell and singer-songwriter Matt Walden.

The first act will be island native Trevor Bystrom with his band at 7 p.m., Friday, Jan. 12.

Bystrom, born and raised on AMI, infuses Caribbean and African influences in his music, which Paul Davis described as soul-catching. Band members include Judit Maldonado on vocals and rhythms and her husband, Benedicto Maldonado, on percussion.

In addition to the main performers, there will be opening acts, providing young artists the opportunity to gain experience before an audience.

For more information, contact Paul Davis at 941779-3227 or go online to www.blackbonesmusic. com.

biz They’re back! with music

By Robyn murrell Islander Reporter

People soon will be hearing a new tune from a couple of familiar faces.

Black Bones Music is launching to bring a new island experience to music lovers, offering intimate shows that give attendees a chance to connect with performers onstage at an Anna Maria cafe.

Paul and Terri Davis, owners of Black Bones Music, and Paul and Tammy Foster, of Ginny’s & Jane E’s Cafe, 9807 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria, are friends who’ve traveled together.

On a New York trip, they stumbled upon one of the city’s oldest rock clubs, which inspired Paul and Terri Davis to bring a music showcase to Anna Maria.

Paul Davis, a former commander at the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office-Anna Maria substation, and, Terri, a former detective in the Holmes Beach Police Department, have long served on the island, but promoting music is a new venture.

Ginny’s & Jane E’s, a popular shop and eatery, has a history as a community gathering place where people flock in the mornings for cinnamon rolls.

Now Black Bones Music wants to create a nighttime gathering place for music savvy listeners.

“The artist can interact with the crowd, telling sto-

MIKE NORMAN REALTY EST. 1978

For professional real estate sales, call a true island native, born and raised on Anna Maria Island.

Marianne NormanEllis, sales associate.

941.778.6696 941.685.3393

Mike Norman Realty EXCLUSIVE

LUXURY

VACATION HOMES

SRQ stats Paul and terri Davis, owners of Black Bones music, are bringing a new venture to anna maria. the husband-wife team are launching small, intimate concerts Jan. 12 at ginny’s & Jane e’s cafe, 9807 gulf Drive, starting with the trevor Bystrom Band.

Islander courtesy Photo

ries between songs, sharing inspirations for particular pieces and discussing what encouraged them to pursue music,” Paul Davis said. “It’s going to be an intimate time, with music as the focus.”

Tickets will be $25 and the venue will accommodate 90 people.

There will be beverage sales — beer and wine — but no food service.

BizCal By Robyn murrell

SAVE THE DATES Jan. 9, 8-9:30 a.m., Anna Maria Island Chamber Sunrise Breakfast, Breakfast at Victoria’s, 5315 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach.

Jan. 11, 11:30 a.m., AMI Chamber luncheon, Grub Tropical BBQ, 415 Pine Ave., Anna Maria.

Jan. 25, 5-7 p.m., Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce annual trolley grant awards, Seafood Shack Marina, Bar & Grill, 4110 127th St. W., Cortez.

Feb. 15, 5 p.m., Manatee Chamber of Commerce annual dinner and awards, Bradenton Area Convention Center, 1 Haben Blvd., Palmetto.

Send calendar listings to calendar@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

In November, 377,272 passengers traveled through the Sarasota Bradenton International Airport, a 5% increase compared to 359,488 passengers in November 2022.

The 12-month activity through November 2023 totaled 4,294,064 passengers, a 12.5% increase compared to 3,817,099 passengers for the 12 months through November 2022.

SRQ has seen a 13% increase in passengers for the calendar year-to-date as compared to the first 11 months of 2022.

For more about the airport closest to Anna Maria Island, go online to flysrq.com.

— lisa neff

PropertyWatch By carol Bernard

Island real estate

522 Pine Ave., #8A, Anna Maria, an 822 sq ft 2BR/2BA Bayou condo built in 1973 sold 11/29/2023

by Hempel to Casas de Anna Maria Island LLC for $612,500, list price $649,000.

209 Elm Ave., Anna Maria, a 2,200 sq ft 4BR/5BA pool home on a 5,719 sq ft lot built in 1950 sold 11/28/2023 by Murray to 209 Elm Ave LLC for $3,900,000, list price $4,250,000.

1801 Gulf Drive, #178, Bradenton Beach, a 1,080 sq ft 2BR/2BA Runaway Bay condo built in 1978 sold 11/21/2023 by Devau to Hogan for $589,000, list price $589,000.

Compiled by Island Real Estate staff. Island Real Estate can be reached at 941-778-6066, islandreal. com. look online for the Islander at the uoff florida newspaper collection at ufdc.ufl.edu.

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

Classic beachfront home invites you to experience the joy of sun-soaked days and tranquil nights by the Gulf of Mexico, with timeless architecture, spacious interiors and less than 200 feet to the crystal sands of the beach.

Welcome to Open Palms, a Luxury Waterfront Home located on one of the few canals in the City of Anna Maria with open water access with no bridges. Although zoned for weekly rentals, this property has never been rented. A pre-listing inspection has been completed to insure you can enjoy Island life immediately.

Family beach home, only one house from the beach with many great views of the stunning colors of the Gulf of Mexico with its clear blue-and-green water, seen from the living area, the deck and each bedroom. Zoned for weekly rentals and no street-side parking.

Duplex weekly rental property that is fun and unique to the island as it is split level with each unit having its own entire floor with both front balconies to take in the seaside sites and glorious sunsets, as well as balconies on the back for those early risers or for those who prefer a shady libation. Located across the street from the Public Beach.

Direct: 941.713.5458 Email: Shellie.Young@PremierSIR.com

Shellie Young, PA, MCNS, IARP, CLHMS Million Dollar Guild Premier Sotheby’s International Realty Servicing Anna Maria Island, Longboat Key & Waterfront Properties

Page 28 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Dec. 27, 2023 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................