The Islander Newspaper E-Edition: Wednesday, Nov 22, 2017 by The Anna Maria Islander Newspaper

Celebrating 25 years Happy Thanksgiving

VOLUME 26, NO. 4

NOV. 22, 2017 FREE

The Best News on Anna Maria Island Since 1992

Experience the joy of giving, Share our wish. Bert Harris suits hit Holmes Beach. 3 CNOBB to dissolve, rebrand. 4

Op-Ed

Opinions. 6

10-20 YEARS AGO

Looking back. 7

Meetings

Government meets. 8 Taking the oath. 8 Ospreys return to steeple. 9 Center banks on donors for revenue. 11

Happenings

Community announcements, activities. 12-13 Island calendar. 14-15

Obituaries. 17 Roser readies Thanksgiving dinner. 17 Rally for Puerto Rico. 18 Silver celebration for The Islander. 19 Recalling 1950s elephant ride. 20 Get in the game. 21

Streetlife. 23

Busing cuts create hardships. 24 Zillow’s ‘wow.’ 27 Soccer final 4 set. 28 Angling winds. 29

ISL BIZ 30-31 Classifieds. 32

www.islander.org

Bradenton Beach declares open commission seat

By chrisann Silver esformes islander reporter in a series of unanimous votes, the sitting Bradenton Beach commission and mayor utilized their final meeting to take care of some lingering business. the commission addressed the vacant seat on the dais and an ordinance to enact approved charter amendments. the commission seat held by mayorelect John Chappie will be filled by appointment at a special meeting immediately proceeding the dec. 7 commission meeting. a motion was made to advertise the seat, which became open as of the nov. 20 swearing-in ceremony, when chappie assumed his role as mayor. applicants have until dec. 1 to complete the process. the motion passed unanimously. the commission also discussed the charter amendment approved by electors on the nov. 7 ballot that removed the four-ward structure, allowing commissioners to serve citywide.

Mayor-elect John Chappie and outgoing Mayor Bill Shearon shake hands at city hall Nov. 16 prior to Shearon leaving office and Chappie’s swearing in. Islander Photo: ChrisAnn Silver Esformes

as a result, nominees for chappie’s seat can reside anywhere in the city. additionally, commissioners unanimously approved the first reading of an ordinance to enact the three charter amendments that were approved nov. 7. The public hearing and final reading of the ordinance will be at 6 p.m. thursday, dec. 7.

Attorney agrees to court-ordered discipline

By Kathy prucnell islander reporter Chuck Webb will be suspended from practicing law for 60 days if florida Supreme court justices agree with his plea and a referee’s recommendation. Webb, a licensed attorney for 31 years and former anna maria city commissioner, having served several terms before losing a bid for re-election in 2016, Webb signed a “conditional guilty plea for consent judgment” oct. 10. the referee, 20th circuit Judge alane cheryl Laboda of Lee county, accepted his plea the same day. Webb said his law partner Dennis Wells will take over the practice for the two months of his absence and he blamed judges and the judicial system for his plight. “i had to settle. i didn’t have any choice. It was trial by ambush,” Webb told The islander nov. 16. Facts underlying Webb’s disciplinary case pertain to his representation of david and Jane guy. Webb’s plea and Laboda’s report were filed Nov. 6 in the disciplinary case, now pending in the state’s highest court. david guy is deceased, according to his daughter, nina guy, who wrote to the

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islander in may, saying her parents lost three properties and their life savings due to Webb’s “unethical actions.” Laboda recommended Webb be found guilty of violating ethics that govern attorneys, including rules prohibiting conflicts of interests, certain transactions and pursuing non-meritorius claims in the guys’ representation. Although Webb said research led him to believe he had “good faith legal basis” to pursue the security interests, he admitted to breaking the rules in the conditional plea. if the justices agree with the recommended discipline, Webb’s license to practice will be suspended — with an automatic reinstatement after two months — and he will be ordered to stop foreclosing liens against clients’ homes, as well as a one-year probation, which requires: • Attending a Florida Bar Ethics School. • Implementing recommendations from a florida Bar-appointed consultant’s analysis of Webb’s office procedures and record -keeping. • Paying the cost of the consultant as well as about $4,000 in costs to the florida Bar. According to facts outlined in Webb’s plea and the referee’s report: pLeaSe See DisCiPLine page 5

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commissioners next approved a threemonth extension of the building moratorium. the most recent extension lapsed nov. 6. However, because it had previously been adopted, city attorney ricinda perry said enacting the extension would not be a problem. pLeaSe See bb oPen seat page 2

Search ends for missing boater

the u.S. coast guard ended its search for missing boater fraser Horne — a winter resident of cortez — at 5:37 p.m. nov. 19. the coast guard reported efforts to locate Horne were called off after a twoday search by air and sea in a 5-mile radius of egmont Key, covering more than 2,100 square miles. Horne, of calgary, canada, was reported missing at 6:15 p.m. nov. 17 by his wife after departing cortez for egmont Key with his dog aboard his 30-foot boat, gold n rush, and not returning, according to michael de Nyse, agency spokesman and petty officer 1st class. Michele Horne thanked the Coast Guard and said toula, their golden retriever, was at home and in good health, according to the release. “Suspending a search is the most difficult decision I have to make and our thoughts and prayers go out to Horne’s family and friends,” wrote capt. Holly najarian, St. petersburg commander in the release. a 29-foot vessel from the coast guard station in Cortez was first to find Horne’s boat near mead point at the north end of perico island at 11:15 p.m. nov. 17, de nyse said. the boat was found in shallow water, pLeaSe See Missing boater page 3

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2 n Nov. 22, 2017 n THE ISLANDER

Bradenton Beach acknowledges outgoing mayor, commissioner The commissioners thanked Shearon for his service to the city. Mayor-elect John Chappie said, “Without question your service to and love of the city is stellar.” city attorney ricinda perry recounted a time when Shearon attended her daughter’s first-grade class and spoke about city government. “I want to personally thank you for being a part of helping me to mentor (Victoria) to respect our country,” perry said. Perry also thanked outgoing Commissioner Ralph

Cole for his service to the city, and for his work as chair of the community redevelopment agency. cole lost his seat in the nov. 7 election to randy White, but has applied for appointment to the now atlarge commission seat, which opened when chappie resigned to run for mayor. at the meeting’s close, chappie said, “You are both good people and it’s been an honor to serve with both of you.” Commissioner Jake Spooner added, “These are two really great guys who really love our city.”

bb oPen seat continued from page 1

the moratorium — enacted in november 2016 — is now set to expire in february 2018. this is the third three-month extension of the original six-month moratorium, which prohibits the review of applications and issuance of permits for structures in the r1 and r2 zoning districts containing more than four bedrooms. the moratorium was enacted to stop the construction of large short-term rental homes while the city commission develops rental regulations and licensing. Commissioner Jake Spooner said he hopes this is the final extension. “We really need to buckle down and get this taken care of,” Spooner said. city planner alan garrett said the planning and zoning board would review rental regulations at its dec. 20 meeting. The commission agreed to hold a workshop to sort out the specifics of the transient public lodging establishment license, to be effective in march 2018.

business — is prohibited at city hall until 5 p.m., even though city hall closes at 4 p.m. a consensus was reached to change signage to allow parking after 4 p.m., unless signs are posted indicating a city meeting is taking place. Additionally, vehicles are prohibited from parking at city hall midnight-7 a.m. Shearon said the commission may want to consider changing the time limit on some parking spots from three hours to two hours. police chief Sam Speciale said he does not have enough staff to enforce such a regulation but he suggested the city could take up paid meters to limit parking. additionally, the commission reached consensus to increase the parking violation fee from $35 to $50. Chappie suggested certain violations, including blocking crosswalks or parking within 10 feet of an intersection, carry a $100 penalty. The group agreed to hold a workshop to discuss time limits on parking and increased fines. The first reading of an ordinance to set the increased Parking violations fee schedule and a resolution for the fee schedule both commissioners and the mayor unanimously passed with a unanimous vote. approved the first reading of an ordinance modifying A public hearing and final reading of both ordiparking in city-owned lots. nances is planned for the dec. 7 commission meetCurrently, public parking — other than for city ing.

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By chrisann Silver esformes islander reporter “He said to go out with a song, so that’s what i did,” outgoing mayor Bill Shearon said nov. 16 at his final commission meeting as mayor. according to Shearon, his late friend and editor of the islander newspaper, paul roat, told Shearon when his term ends, to end it with a song. the song Shearon chose was written by david Graham, a resident of Pines Trailer Park in Bradenton Beach. the lyrics describe the concern islanders felt as Hurricane irma was bearing down on anna maria island in early September and the relief they felt upon returning to find the island spared. Shearon said he thinks the song summarizes how Bradenton Beach residents felt upon returning to their city, and he thanked the police department and public works for their work during and after the threat from irma. He said upon taking office, he was determined to improve the police department. “i had an agenda to get our police department up to a higher standard and i’m very proud of that,” Shearon said, citing the success of emergency operations for Hurricane irma, new police vehicles and increased police presence in the historic district and the boat anchorage area adjacent to the Historic Bridge Street pier. Shearon also acknowledged the city administration and building and planning departments for their time under his executive oversight. “I want to thank the city staff for all the improvements they’ve made,” Shearon said. “especially with the budget process.” Shearon closed his statement by thanking his longtime domestic partner tjet martin, for supporting him through his time in office. Martin later said she looks forward to some relaxation and reduced stress, but she plans to stay involved in city affairs.

THE ISLANDER n Nov. 22, 2017 n 3

7 Bert Harris suits slapped on Holmes Beach

By Kathy Prucnell Islander Reporter All indications are attorneys for Holmes Beach will wear a virtual path to the courthouse as the city maintains a hard line in defense of its ordinances. Seven lawsuits were filed Nov. 3 against the city under the Bert J. Harris Private Property Rights Protection Act. The state law gives owners the right to sue for market value loss against municipalities that inordinately burden their property rights when an initial claim goes unresolved. Served Nov. 13 on Mayor Bob Johnson, the suits challenge the city’s short-term rental and two-occupants per bedroom ordinances enacted in 2015-16 and allege a total of $2.5 million in damages. “Right now, we have no reason to change our strategy. We have decent regulations and rules,” Johnson said Nov. 16. He believes four similar cases filed earlier this year are “defensible.” Each is in various stages of discovery, alleging $1.3 million in damages against the city. Notice of an additional $22.5 million in losses has been given to the city by other owner/investors — but their claims have not reached the level of lawsuits. City treasurer Lori Hill said the city’s Florida League of Cities insurance would cover claims up to $1 million and, depending on the ordinance challenged, also would cover legal fees. The city had no occupancy restriction before 2015. According to the newly filed lawsuits, the properties were purchased before the new laws were enacted and the owners intended to rent the homes to more people than the two-person per bedroom limit the city allows. And thus, the city, by enacting the new laws, inordinately burdened their property rights, resulting in economic losses. Two of the seven properties in the new suits — 209 54th St. with a $690,000 claim and 307 66th St. with

pants. Wien also is involved in a new case with another property, 132 50th St., which he purchased in 2009, and transferred to corporate ownership in 2012. As the manager of the Coral Escape of Holmes Beach LLC, Wien’s claim is for $240,000 in damages for the six-bedroom home allegedly intended for 14-plus occupants. R. Carlile Roberts, owner of a three-bedroom condo in LaPlage Place, 6422 Gulf Drive, filed suit, claiming he intended to rent his three-bedroom condo to at least eight people. He is seeking $380,000 in damages. Najmy Thompson PL represented developer/ investor Shawn Kaleta in a federal discrimination The home at 111 81st St., Holmes Beach, owned by case against the city of Anna Maria, through the same Brian Wien, is the subject of a lawsuit— one of seven Florida League of Cities’ insurance arm representing lawsuits — filed Nov. 3 against the city in the 12th Holmes Beach, and received a settlement of $1 million, Circuit Court under the Bert J. Harris Jr. Private among other concessions for Kaleta. Property Rights Protection Act. Islander Photo: Missing boater continued from page 1 Kathy Prucnell preventing the Cortez Coast Guard officers from $295,000 in alleged losses — are, respectively, owned boarding it, he added. by AMI Breeze and 307 66th, limited liability compaA helicopter from Clearwater was called in and a nies, and list Jennifer Kaleta as the corporate manager, crew member was dropped into Horne’s vessel, which according to Florida Secretary of State records. was reported to be idling in neutral, with Horne’s Attorney Aaron Thomas of Najmy Thompson PL, wallet, keys and shoes aboard. representing the owners in all the new suits, contends the De Nyse said he had no report of a cellphone or 54th Street eight-bedroom property had been intended any reasons for Horne’s disappearance. for at least 20 renters and the six-bedroom 66th Street Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commisunit had been intended for 16-plus renters. sion, Holmes Beach police, Manatee County Sheriff’s Robert and Michele Carl own two properties for Office and Pinellas County marine units assisted in the which they seek damages, 4805 Second Ave., Unit B, search. and 118 50th St., Unit A. They allege $275,000 and Horne’s dog was found Nov. 18 at Fort De Soto $400,000 in damages, respectively, for the four-bed- Park in Pinellas County by a good Samaritan, De Nyse room and six-bedroom units. said. Brian Wien alleges $220,000 in damages for being “Despite our best efforts, we were unable to limited by the new city ordinances to no more than 10 reunite Fraser with his family,” Najarian said in the occupants for his five-bedroom rental home. He had news release. intended to market the property for at least 12 occu— Kathy Prucnell

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4 n Nov. 22, 2017 n THE ISLANDER

Dissolution imminent for Bradenton Beach political group

By ChrisAnn Silver Esformes Islander Reporter It’s not that they are not concerned. But it appears “philosophical differences” will conclude the efforts of a short-lived group of concerned neighbors in Bradenton Beach that got caught up in politics. However, Concerned Neighbors of Bradenton Beach is planning a rebirth as a “social and community group” with a new name. It came as no surprise at the Nov. 14 general membership meeting when Bill Vincent, founder and chair of CNOBB, asked for a motion to dissolve the group. “I’ve been very clear throughout the entire process what my agenda was,” Vincent said Nov. 14. “A non-adversarial neighborhood association in which the neighbors have a voice.” Earlier, at a Nov. 9 steering committee meeting, Vincent identified a split in the members between those working as an educational group and those who wish to continue as a political action committee. Vincent called for a motion to dissolve the group at the Nov. 14 meeting. The group took on three charter amendments for the Nov. 7 ballot — all passed by the electorate — and accepted contributions and paid expenses — and because of those actions, they were required to register as a PAC, Vincent said. Several members of CNOBB contributed to an attorney bill of $3,000, according to CNOBB’s October finance report, an expense they determined was

CNOBB founder and chair Bill Vincent, left, leads the first general meeting July 11, as his wife, Rose, and ex-Mayor Jack Clarke attend and take notes. Islander Photo: ChrisAnn Silver Esformes required for the initiatives to reach the ballot as they contended with objections from the city. Since filing as a PAC with the city, the group and members of its steering committee came face-to-face with complaints made by former Mayor Jack Clarke to the Florida Elections Committee. Clarke claims the group did not file its registration and financial paperwork in a timely manner. “The financials were filed in time relative to when the organization registered, though the organization didn’t register as timely as they probably should’ve,”

CNOBB treasurer John Metz said Nov. 14. The complaints follow a lawsuit filed in August by Clarke against six city board members — also CNOBB members — alleging Sunshine Law violations. Vincent said Nov. 14 he does not support a group that takes political action. He would, however, like to see the group take a “breather” over the holidays and come back in 2018 under a different moniker, as a community awareness organization. CNOBB’s bylaws state that the group can be dissolved by a two-thirds majority vote of the membership, Vincent said the group can dissolve, even though it is tied up in an elections complaint. He said he would notify the elections committee of the dissolution. Following the holidays, Vincent hopes to reform under a new name, with no political ambitions. He said the steering committee will meet again to discuss the remaining $650 balance on the CNOBB account, but as the group’s founder, the responsibility for the balance is his. A motion to dissolve passed unanimously. The meeting to resolve distribution of the bank funds and a final vote to dissolve CNOBB will be at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 28, at the Annie Silver Community Center. “I think the biggest accomplishment of the organization is that we identified a void,” CNOBB member Patty Shay said Nov. 14. “A void in the knowledge and education of the people in the city. And by identifying that void and giving that knowledge to the people, we gave them that power.”

Chamber, Anna Maria, MCSO probe Bayfest security options

By Bianca Benedí Islander Reporter The Bayfest matter has been resolved, sort of. Anna Maria Mayor Dan Murphy said he will inquire with city attorney Becky Vose about whether a permit allowing drinking on Pine Avenue also gives permit-holders exclusive rights to sell alcohol for an event. At a meeting with representatives from the Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce Nov. 9, Commissioner Brian Seymour said he experienced multiple difficulties at his business during Bayfest, a street festival put on by the chamber Oct. 21 on Pine Avenue in Anna Maria. Seymour said his business, the Anna Maria General Store, has a license to sell alcoholic beverages — beer and wine — but shoppers must consume their purchases elsewhere. His license does not include consumption on his premises. However, during Bayfest, private security prevented Seymour’s customers from bringing beer or wine purchased at the store onto Pine Avenue, telling them they had to consume the beverages before reentering Bayfest. In addition, Seymour said a Bayfest security guard was stationed outside his shop all day, which made him feel targeted. On Nov. 16, chamber president Deb Wing and chamber board member Eric Cairns met with Seymour, Anna Maria Mayor Dan Murphy and Manatee County Sheriff’s Sgt. Russell Schnering, head of the MCSOAnna Maria substation, to discuss alcohol consumption and enforcement at Bayfest. “I’ve always been a fan of Bayfest,” Seymour said at the beginning of the meeting, but he said he thinks MCSO deputies who work in the city “365 days a year” should police the event instead of private security. Wing said the chamber hired off-duty law enforcement for Bayfest 2016, but that too resulted in complications. In the permit for the event, the chamber had to guarantee a particular number of security personnel for an event as large as Bayfest. However, off-duty deputies have to volunteer to cover an event and there’s no obligation to sign up, she said. Wing said in 2016, the chamber only hired enough volunteer deputies to meet the requirement the day before the event, adding that they would have been left with few options if not enough deputies volunteered. She said the chamber chose private security officers to ensure they met the permit requirements.

Deb Wing, president of the Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce, discusses complications that arose with security at Bayfest, which was held in October and sponsored by the chamber. Around her, chamber chair Eric Cairns, Anna Maria deputy clerk Debbie Haynes, MCSO Sgt. Russell Schnering, Commissioner Brian Seymour and Mayor Dan Murphy listen. Islander Photo: Bianca Benedí Schnering said he recognized the staffing problem and would bring the issue to the MCSO. Seymour said he had an issue with the suggestion that Bayfest should have exclusive rights to sell alcoholic beverages on Pine Avenue. “Am I just expected to close my business down (for the day)?” he said, pointing out that because the event closed the street to vehicle traffic, limiting customers to festivalgoers, and appeared to discourage people from purchasing alcohol from him, sales at his store were down. Wing said the chamber took steps to control the sale of alcohol because it took on the liability of allowing attendees to drink on Pine Avenue, which is otherwise unlawful. In addition, she said, the event issued wristbands for attendees over 21 indicating they could drink alcohol. If six-packs or coolers were purchased elsewhere, she said, the chamber couldn’t guarantee that only people with wristbands were consuming alcohol. “It’s my job to know my liability,” Wing said. “I don’t know yours and I don’t need to. We told people to drink (in your store) but it was in the syntax. We were saying you can’t drink it (at Bayfest).” By limiting alcohol to drinks poured from Bayfest bartenders in Bayfest cups, she said, the chamber could control how much alcohol was consumed, cut people off who consumed too much and avoid underage drinking. In addition, she pointed out, Bayfest is a fundraiser for scholarships. In 17 years, she said the event has given scholarships to 35 students. The beer revenue makes up a significant amount of Bayfest’s income,

she said. “It’s something we should all get behind. When someone else is selling it, it gets in the way, we have less money to give to the students,” she said. Wing, Seymour and Cairns agreed the argument could have been avoided with a pre- and post-event meeting. However, Seymour disputed whether Bayfest has exclusive rights to sell alcohol during the event. Schnering said in site plans for the event, the General Store was included as part of Pine Avenue and therefore would have been considered part of the event. If off-duty deputies had been employed, he said, they wouldn’t have recognized alcohol from Seymour’s shop on the street as a problem. “I heard through the grapevine he was being prevented from selling alcohol, I said ‘that’s ridiculous’ … but I understand both sides,” Schnering said. Mayor Dan Murphy said, in his opinion, it was one of the best Bayfests held in years.

Bayfest attendees dance and hold beverages at the 2017 event on Pine Avenue. Islander File Photo

THE ISLANDER n Nov. 22, 2017 n 5

Chuck Webb, left, speaks with attorney Matthew Lynch, representing Scott and Erin Kosfeld, at a June hearing in the Manatee courthouse on Webb’s complaint against the Kosfelds for nonpayment of his fees. Islander Photo: Kathy Prucnell DisCiPLine continued from page 1 • Webb represented the Guys for several years. He prepared an attorney/client agreement that purported to give him the right to lien the guys’ property, including their homestead property, but Jane guy did not execute the agreement. • Webb later drew up a security agreement and recorded it. • Webb did not advise the Guys to seek independent advice regarding the agreements. • The Guys fell behind on Webb’s fees as he represented david guy in a mortgage foreclosure on a property in palmetto. • With Webb’s help, David Guy foreclosed the Palmetto property, but a bank holding a superior position also sought to foreclose. Webb then withdrew as guy’s counsel and intervened to foreclose his security interest to obtain fees under the security and attorney/ client agreements. • Webb obtained a deficiency judgment against david guy but failed to give him credit for the value of the property. Webb sold the Palmetto property.

• Webb continued pursuing his fees with foreclosures against the guys’ two other properties, including the guys’ homestead, without disclosing his prior foreclosure to the courts. The Florida Bar filed the complaint against Webb in march after 12th circuit Senior Judge thomas gallen brought the matter to the bar’s attention and its grievance committee found probable cause. According to Gallen, Webb was motivated to delay foreclosure by the rental income he was receiving from the properties, including 522 68th St. and 3200 Sixth ave. in Holmes Beach. Webb said the disciplinary case began after Gallen told an opposing attorney “how to win” and Webb reported the judge for breaking an ethical standard. “A month later I got the bar complaint,” Webb said. Webb said he was forced to settle because the bar was “looking for nine-months suspension” at that point. “i have a family. i can survive two months. i can’t survive nine,” he added. Webb’s plea is conditioned on the high court’s approval. It will have no effect if not “finally approved,”

according to the plea document. the florida Supreme court, which regulates the admission and discipline of attorneys, typically accepts the referee recommendations and finalizes consent judgments. nina guy wrote to the islander in a may 18 email: “my parents lost three properties, their life savings and everything they had ever worked for because of his unethical actions. “My father was sick with pancreatic cancer that had spread to his brain when Webb had him sign property over as collateral. “Webb knew he was ill, and my father subsequently passed away after Webb took the opportunity to prey on my family to benefit himself greatly through our real estate investments.” Although Webb’s conditional plea references restitution payment, according to Francine Walker, director of public information, there is none being considered “at this time” because it was not recommended by the referee. Walker said no other complaints are pending against Webb.

Tangled web in Holmes Beach

Attorney Charles Webb maintains a law office in Holmes Beach in the same building as the medical practice of Scott Kosfeld. Kosfeld, a physician with island family physicians LLC, Holmes Beach, went to Webb in 2010 for legal help with an anna maria property he owned. In April, Webb filed suit in 12th Circuit Court against Kosfeld and wife Erin seeking payment of his fees. Webb alleges the couple is delinquent on more than $48,000 since October 2013 — and asks the court to enforce his attorney-client and security agreements. the Kosfelds contend the agreements are unenforceable. Scott Kosfeld also complained about Webb’s practices to the florida Bar in July.

“We later found out he typed information on the back, which we did not see, initial or sign. We have since learned it stated i would forfeit my homestead, real and personal property,” Scott Kosfeld told the florida Bar. charles Hughes, counsel for the florida Bar, declined oct. 25 to pursue Kosfeld’s ethics complaint. the bar has no jurisdiction in a fee dispute “unless the amount demanded is clearly excessive, extortionate or fraudulent,” Hughes wrote to Kosfeld. Meanwhile, Webb filed a second amended complaint in the case seeking fees against the Kosfelds. the civil case, including actions for breach of contract, unjust enrichment, fraud and foreclosure, is pending before 12th circuit Judge gilbert Smith Jr.

6 n Nov. 22, 2017 n THE ISLANDER

Opinion

Our

Thanks to you

So much has happened in the past year to be thankful for, it’s hard to recount. events this past year have reminded me in small sparks and short flashes of the many people I came to know and the occasions I attended as I wandered along on my 25-year adventure at the helm of the islander. It was Nov. 25, 1992, when the first edition of the new paper — started from scratch, mind you, on a mac classic computer, rolled of the press. What wasn’t new was the idea behind the newspaper. That came from experience. The little voice talking over my shoulder told me that islanders in anna maria, Bradenton Beach and Holmes Beach wanted news about their cities. They wanted to know their neighbors from the cop’s beat to the fruitcake man. Oh, yes, the fruitcake man was a treat. He came to the office to share a slice of his fruitcake, a 20-year tradition made with love from his mother’s recipe and a little help from selfishly motivated neighbors — everyone wanted a slice. He shared his story and his recipe. after a few years of enjoyment, he faded from view and we were left to wonder what had happened to him. But a few years back we met his son — age 76 — at our Veterans day Salute and, surprise, Bernard Haulsee was thriving at 100-plus in a tennessee nursing home. His son made and shared fruitcake. “I love to bake them,” said Haulsee in 1993. He died in 2011 at 102. But, the really good news is that his story lived on. His story and his fruitcake recipe traveled around the world in the islander year after year with each holiday. You can read it online at our website. there isn’t time or space to recount all the great times and the wonderful friends i’ve made in 25 years. Living on this great island in this great community has taught me, friends are there when you need them. it’s what creates our bond. Some people return to their northern homes and some leave us forever, but they never fade from Explore all options memory. It makes this job a little harder, but no less rewardfor City Pier project ing. the city of anna maria is on the verge of deciding Be thankful. the future of the historic city pier. this is an important And, please, share some Haulsee fruitcake. Just decision and should be made only after careful considdon’t forget to baptize it with a little (or a lot) of Jim eration of all options. Beam. — Bonner Joy i am concerned that this is not the process being followed. I would like to see the pier remain historic, which means wood pilings and wood decking. at the meeting with ayers engineering in october, the only recommendation, schedule and cost presented NOV. 22, 2017 • Vol. 26, No. 4 called for concrete pilings and composite decking. is this the best choice? ▼ Publisher and Editor Bonner Joy, news@islander.org the commissioners voted to direct ayers to design ▼ Editorial for a 75-100 year lifetime. Lisa Neff, copy editor Sandy Ambrogi, sandy@islander.org Was Ayers asked to consider other options? Bianca Benedí, bianca@islander.org if not, this means the despite the statements being Joe Bird, editorial cartoonist made by the mayor the decision has already been made Kevin Cassidy, kevin@islander.org Jack Elka, jack@jackelka.com and is not open to discussion. it will be concrete pilChrisAnn Silver Esformes, chrisann@islander.org ings and composite decking. If that is the case, then Terry O’Connor, terryo@islander.org you can remove “historic” from the pier description. Kathy Prucnell, kathyp@islander.org Ed Scott, edscott@islander.org Hopefully, it is not too late because I think wood ▼ Contributors pilings and wood decking as an option should be conJesse Brisson Karen Riley-Love sidered and cost and schedule estimates be provided. Capt. Danny Stasny, fish@islander.org does concrete really translate to longer lifetime? ▼ Advertising Director i am not so sure. if interested, i can give you some Toni Lyon, toni@islander.org ▼ Office Staff local examples of concrete piling lifetime. Where is Lisa Williams, manager the experience factor? Christi Burton Do we know for sure that if we rebuild the pier that accounting@islander.org classifieds@islander.org the restaurant and bait shop can be replaced? in earlier subscriptions@islander.org pier refurbishment/rebuild discussions held feb. 25, ▼ Distribution Urbane Bouchet 2016, the mayor was not so sure and then-commisJudy Loden Wasco sioner Chuck Webb was definite that they could not Ross Roberts be replaced. (All others: news@islander.org) at that meeting, the mayor recommended refurSingle copies free. Quantities of ﬁve or more: 25 cents each. bishment and pointed out the character and ambiance ©1992-2017 • Editorial, sales and production offices: 3218 E. Bay Drive, Holmes Beach FL 34217 of the pier includes a restaurant and bait shop area. to WEBSITE: www.islander.org lose them would be a significant loss to the city, county PHONE 941-778-7978 toll-free fax 1-866-362-9821

Opinion

Your

and state due to it being a historical destination. This resulted in the decision to refurbish. What has changed to say it is oK now? if the city pier was on the historical register, which it should be, would wood pilings and decking have to be used in the rebuild? Dennis Ellsworth, Anna Maria

Amend the Second Amendment

i’m a veteran, a gun owner, a supporter of our constitution and of the right to own guns. i am not a supporter of people owning militarystyle guns or being able to buy and or sell guns without background checks, registration and responsibility. The Second Amendment was a fitting document for 1776. It needs to be updated to fit our times. the nra and gun manufacturers have made a sham of the amendment. The gun lobby in Washington, d.c., seems to have scared all politicians who accept their support into voting against any reasonable legislation. in my opinion, we need an amendment to the Second Amendment that states what kind of arms, how many per household, reason for owning, background checks, registration, penalties and much more. if 93 people die from gun violence every day, we must stop and ask ourselves, “What are we doing?” We are in a position to do something, before your phone or my phone rings with the news a son, daughter or grandchild has just been shot. Stand up, be an american before you are a republican or a democrat. i am tired of mourning the dead and wounded and praising the police and first responders over and over again. i am so tired of singing “amazing grace.” Larry Hibbs, Holmes Beach

THE ISLANDER n Nov. 22, 2017 n 7

Through rain but no sleet or snow

Harry “Uncle Sam” Ditmus points to the mural painted on his truck depicting a Western scene. Ditmus moved to Florida from New York City in 1916 and began work as postmaster on Anna Maria Island in 1922. He began mail delivery in 1924. This photograph and many other historical images can be found in “Images of America: Anna Maria Island” by Islander publisher Bonner Joy. Islander Courtesy Photo

Wishing for a wonderful 2018

We always seek harmony for Anna Maria Island, and can’t help but look to our community and beyond and hope for peace, love and compassion. We depend on you, our readers, to make the holiday bright for your fellow islanders. The holidays are a time to take an extra moment to give someone a smile or send a greeting — pause to give a quiet hug or words of praise. the holidays are special for friends, family and islanders. In our annual Islander Wish Book, included in this issue, we take a moment to present the needs of organizations in our community that deserve your special consideration. these community service organizations are dedicated to providing assistance to families and individuals, teaching and mentoring our children, helping the elderly and less fortunate — all with the goal of making Anna Maria Island a better place to live for each and every one of us. With The Islander Wish Book, many of these

organizations offer a special way for you to share the holiday spirit. We’ve included a list of needs — wishes — from each one. Your donation is deeply appreciated. Please, take a moment to select a gift from the lists of items needed by organizations included in our Wish Book to add to your holiday shopping list. The Wish Book is The Islander’s way of saying thanks for the support we’ve received and a chance for us to give something back to the community we love. We offer a special thanks to our generous sponsor advertisers for making this publication possible. And we hope you receive the same return as we have each year from the wish book — the joy of giving. Happy holidays and best wishes for 2018!

We’d love to mail you the news!

10&20 years ago In the headlines: Nov. 19, 1997

• Island officials met with Manatee County commissioners to discuss how a mass transit system — an island trolley or bus — would operate on anna maria island and whether it would alleviate traffic. • Two Holmes Beach residents went before the Holmes Beach code enforcement board and won a ruling that chickens are pets and allowed at their home. The city code enforcement officer had said the chickens were not permitted under an ordinance banning the raising of cows, chickens, pigs, horses, etc. • Funding for a bike path in Anna Maria was cut from $264,000 to $215,000 in a five-year transportation plan. funding for a Holmes Beach path was cut from $220,000 to $150,000.

In the headlines: Nov. 21, 2007

• A fire at a duplex in the 300 block of North Shore drive in anna maria forced the evacuation of a family. More than a dozen firefighters worked at the site. Officials suspected there was a problem with venting from the fireplace. • A group tasked with beautifying and protecting the palma Sola Scenic Highway corridor learned that a plan to plant hundreds of trees along the causeway would be scaled back due to costs. • A demolition team began tearing down the 50-year-old chapel and library buildings at crosspointe fellowship in Holmes Beach. the onestory buildings had suffered termite and mold damage.

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8 n Nov. 22, 2017 n THE ISLANDER

3 Anna Maria commissioners seated for 2 more years

After voters elected to keep the Anna Maria City commission intact, commissioners voted nov. 16 to keep most of their commission assignments and responsibilities intact. commissioners unanimously voted for doug copeland to continue to serve as chair. commissioner nancy Yetter passed the vice-chair baton to commissioner carol carter, who received the most votes out of four candidates nov. 7.

commissioners also voted to continue their assignments and liaisons. copeland will continue to serve as liaison to the manatee county tourist development council. carter will continue serving as liaison to the anna maria island Historical Society and manaSota League of cities. commissioner Brian Seymour will continue to represent anna maria with the anna maria island

Commissioner Carol Carter is sworn into a new two-year term as Anna Maria city commissioner Nov. 16 by city clerk LeAnne Addy.

Commissioner Doug Copeland raises his right hand Nov. 16 as city clerk LeAnne Addy swears him in for another two-year term.

New chapter begins in Holmes Beach government

By terry o’connor islander reporter the Holmes Beach city commission restructuring was to become official at a Nov. 20 swearing-in ceremony at city hall. The ceremony inducting four of the five commissioners was held after press time for the islander. Voters in the nov. 7 municipal election seated two new commissioners and re-elected two incumbents. First-time candidates Jim Kihm and Rick Hurst joined the commission. Kihm collected the most votes of five candidates, including three incumbents. Kihm’s four-point platform is to balance homeowner and rental property rights, keep the city safe, maintain home rule and press county and state officials and the manatee county tourist development council to share the expense of protecting visitors and maintaining infrastructure. Incumbent Carol Soustek finished No. 2 in the balloting while Hurst collected the third-most votes. Soustek ran a campaign emphasizing fiscal responsibility and consistent enforcement of city ordinances.

New ofﬁcials

Four Holmes Beach commissioners were sworn into office Nov. 20 at city hall, including re-elected Commissioners Carol Soustek, left, and Pat Morton. They are joined by Chair Judy Titsworth and Mayor Bob Johnson, as well as new Commissioners Jim Kihm and Rick Hurst. Islander Photo: Terry O’Connor

Hurst said he’s anxious to fulfill his campaign promise to form a committee to focus on activities that bring residents together. government-in-the Sunshine Law concerns prompted him to wait until conferring with city attorney Patricia Petruff before taking this action. “i would hope this committee will be able to plan and execute several great events in 2018,” he said. Hurst’s other goals include passing a formula business ordinance; developing an expedited plan to improve stormwater drainage issues; and monitoring Bert Harris claims and lawsuits. the three top vote-getters won two-year terms. Incumbent Pat Morton finished fourth and will serve a one-year term. a Holmes Beach commissioner since 2003, and re-elected seven times to two-year terms, morton has championed community betterment and waste control. morton’s campaign shirt bore the message: “my community. my responsibility.” incumbent, marvin grossman was sidelined by the vote and commissioner Jean peelen stepped down, choosing not to run for re-election.

chamber of commerce. Woodland will continue to represent the Anna maria city pier. Yetter will continue with the center of anna maria island and island players. Carter, Copeland and Woodland were sworn to serve two-year terms nov. 16. carter and copeland have served on the commission since 2014. Woodland has served for seven terms. commissioners receive a $400 monthly stipend. the next city commission meeting will be at 6 p.m. thursday, nov. 30, at city hall, 10005 gulf drive. — Bianca Benedí

Commissioner Dale Woodland smiles and shakes LeAnne Addy’s hand Nov. 16 on being sworn into a new two-year term on the commission. Islander Photos: Bianca Benedí

Meetings anna Maria City • Nov. 30, 6 p.m., city commission. • Dec. 12, 4 p.m., planning and zoning. • Dec. 14, 6 p.m., city commission. • Dec. 28, 6 p.m., city commission. Anna Maria City Hall, 10005 Gulf Drive, 941-708-6130, cityofannamaria.com. bradenton beach • None announced. Bradenton Beach City Hall, 107 Gulf Drive N., 941-778-1005, cityofbradentonbeach.org. Holmes beach • Nov. 27, 1 p.m., ad hoc committee on local government. • Dec. 6, 6 p.m., planning commission. • Dec. 12, 6 p.m., city commission. Holmes Beach City Hall, 5801 Marina Drive, 941-708-5800, holmesbeachfl.org. West Manatee Fire rescue • Dec. 21, 6 p.m., fire commission. CANceLed. WMFR administration building, 6417 Third Ave. W., Bradenton, wmfr.org. Manatee County • Nov. 28, 9 a.m., county commission. • Dec. 4, 9 a.m., tourist development council, anna maria city Hall. • Dec. 7, 9 a.m., commission (land use). • Dec. 12, 9 a.m., commission. Administration building, 1112 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton, 941-748-4501, mymanatee.org. of interest • Nov. 23 is Thanksgiving and most government offices will be closed. Offices also will be closed Nov. 24. The Islander office also will be closed nov. 23. • Dec. 12, 2 p.m., Island Transportation Organization, anna maria city Hall. • Dec. 25 is Christmas and most government offices will be closed, as well as Dec. 26. Send notices to news@islander.org.

THE ISLANDER n Nov. 22, 2017 n 9

Hope runs high for return of osprey steeple nest

By Kathy prucnell islander reporter first there were questions about how the osprey nest disappeared. next came anger over bird deterrents where the nest stood for many years. now the deterrents are gone and numerous people report observing the birds soaring nearby. “I have word that the church is going to be taking the deterrents down. Yay!” So says an email to the islander nov. 17 from Briana gagnier, who informed the media earlier this month about the osprey nest missing from gloria dei Lutheran church in Holmes Beach. The Rev. Rosemary Backer said the roofer was scheduled to return nov. 20 to remove bird deterrents from the church steeple and they did. the church pastor also wanted to set the record straight about the nest that disappeared from the steeple after more than a decade. “It was taken down in a storm. It’s all a lie to say it was taken down with the tenting,” she said Nov. 16. the base of the cross atop gloria dei, 6608 marina drive, had been home to a pair of ospreys, as well as offspring, year after year. But it was gloria dei’s media contact, Jean etsinger, who previously told the islander the nest was removed to facilitate a fumigation treatment to rid the church of termites. reports to the islander in September indicated the nest, although damaged, had weathered Hurricane irma. Not true, according to Backer. Irma swept the nest away, she said. though initially the church reported the nest intact after the storm, on closer examination, a roofing company “found just mud, no nest.” in a nov. 2 news release, the church reported the roofers found the platform — comprising copper sheets — atop the church in good shape and Jay poppe, a gloria dei property liaison, deemed the steeple in

If a nest is removed, the FWC recommends but does not require a platform be placed within 300 feet of its former location. Backer described her congregation as “pro-conservation,” but added she doubted installing a platform would satisfy the neighbors. gagnier responded in a nov. 16 email to the islander: “they don’t even have to put up a platform, just taking down the deterrents would satisfy everyone who is upset with this. “If they decide not to take them down, neighbors want to see a platform,” she added. On Nov. 18, an osprey was spotted flying above gloria dei, perching and whistling atop the cross. Home again?

An osprey perches atop the cross Nov. 15 at Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, 6608 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Islander Photos: Kathy Prucnell “good shape.” Etsinger said Nov. 4 she didn’t know who directed the placement of the bird deterrents that appeared after the fumigation. Backer said the roofer put up the bird deterrents. the church had been worried about the structure of the roof. “the tree was the issue,” she said, referencing a plant that sprouted next to the nest. Backer also said “months ago” the church contacted the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation commission and learned it could remove the nest. An FWC rule change in March allows osprey nest An osprey sits atop a utility pole Nov. 18 adjacent to removals when there are no eggs or flightless chicks. Gloria Dei Lutheran Church.

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10 n Nov. 22, 2017 n THE ISLANDER

Holmes Beach building department boss applauds progress By Terry O’Connor Islander Reporter You might say the Holmes Beach building department is a fairly well-oiled machine. A number of residential and business developers have criticized the Holmes Beach building department in emails to city hall throughout 2017, alleging slow permitting and inspection response times and poor communication. But there were no detractors at the building department forum Nov. 14 at city hall. Holmes Beach Mayor Bob Johnson said the complaints were basically “sour grapes” in reaction to higher standards being upheld by more professional building department personnel. “Things are not perfect,” Johnson said. “But the team is doing well and providing the degree of service the customer deserves.” Building official Jim McGuinness welcomed nearly two dozen people to the forum for introductions to staff. Johnson opened the forum by noting the average number of major new construction permits issued in a year has nearly tripled from 35 in years 2005-11 to roughly 100 per year in 2016-17.

Holmes Beach averages for major construction permits

2005-11, 35 major jobs per year. 2012-15, 50 major jobs per year. 2016, 100 major jobs. 2017, on pace for 100 major jobs. Source: Holmes Beach Mayor Bob Johnson

Building codes governing Holmes Beach construction are organized in 10 volumes. Islander Photo: Terry O’Connor

“That pickup in volume is demanding,” Johnson said. Johnson said McGuinness was hired little more than two years ago to transform the Holmes Beach building department into a more effective unit and he has done so. Hurricane Irma underscored how important code enforcement and proper permitting is to Anna Maria Island, which is vulnerable to storm surge from two sides, McGuinness said. “We protect your life so you have a safe place to go in a storm,” McGuinness said. “We take our homes for granted until you have a 100-mph wolf howling at your door.” McGuinness introduced city employees Joe Auks-

tikalnis, plans examiner; Angie Birdwell, permit supervisor; and Brenda Wynn, permit technician, during the forum. Discussions also covered floodwater protection tactics, building permit requirements and contractor scam tipoffs. The forum was rescheduled from its original date in September to Oct. 25, then again postponed to Nov. 15 before being rescheduled for Nov. 14, at city hall, 5801 Marina Drive. The building department is the fifth to be spotlighted in a series of public forums on government operations in Holmes Beach. Public works, the police department, code enforcement and the city clerk’s office were headliners at previous forums.

Holmes Beach election triggers ad hoc committee member resignation

By Terry O’Connor Islander Reporter Constance Kihm will resign from the Holmes Beach Ad Hoc Committee to avoid any appearance of impropriety after her husband won a seat on the city commission Nov. 7. Kihm cited concerns about possible accusations of collusion with Commissioner-elect Jim Kihm in announcing her decision at the two-hour-plus Nov. 13 committee meeting. She said she would submit her resignation to city clerk Stacey Johnston. “I don’t see how I can sit on this committee under the circumstances,” Kihm said. Since Aug. 24, the nine-member committee has been studying whether Holmes Beach would be better served by employing a town manager. Florida’s Sunshine Laws limit conversations between city officials on official business to public

Anna Maria installs hearing loop in city hall

Thanks to a new installation at Anna Maria City Hall, those with hearing difficulties have a new option to tune in during meetings. A Hearing Loop system installed in the chambers can transmit sound directly to a hearing aid, effectively turning hearing aids into headphones. The technology uses a t-coil found in most modern hearing aids to transmit the signal. In order to receive the transmitted sound, a hearing aid user must activate the t-coil on the device. People with hearing devices should consult with their audiologist if they are not sure how to activate their device. City hall also will have two hearing-loop devices available for those who do not have a hearing aid, but want amplified sound during meetings. The device was installed at a cost of $3,758. Similar devices have been installed at Roser Memorial Community Church in Anna Maria and the Episcopal Church of Annunciation and St. Bernard Catholic Church in Holmes Beach. For more information, visit city hall, 10005 Gulf Drive. — Bianca Benedí

meetings, which has meant a de facto gag order in the Kihm household. “We have not mentioned this committee in our house because we’re not supposed to,” she said. “Plus, we have a whole lot of other stuff to talk about.” Kihm indicated regret at leaving the committee, but was resolute in her decision. “It’s not so much about me, it’s about the city,” she said. The resignation was accepted by the committee. “Actually, I think it’s a wise choice on her part,” said member Scott Boyd. “I feel bad. I do.” “We’ll miss you,” said committee chair David Cheshire. To consider changing the form of government is a significant decision, Boyd said, and already attracting criticism. “I’ve already heard concerns about the committee’s transparency,” Boyd said. “Politics is about perception.” Boyd said he didn’t want to give people reason to reject any recommendations because they don’t like the committee’s process. Committee member Terry Schaefer said such complaints are baseless. “To me, that’s shoot-from-the-hip ideology,” Schaefer said. “I put very little credibility in their remarks. It’s just the state of politics today.” The goal of the committee is to recommend the best form of city government for Holmes Beach to the city commission. Changing the city’s form of government would require a vote by the commission to put the matter before the electorate. The ad hoc committee will develop a transition plan if voters approve a proposed charter change. There are at least eight municipal government formats in use today in Florida, but the model featuring a commission and city manager is emerging as the favored choice statewide, according to committee member Ellen Prince. “That’s the new thing,” said Prince in reporting her research to the committee. The committee will next drill down to comparisons between Holmes Beach and cities of similar size. “Ultimately, as we work our way through the various cities, we’ll be able to see what’s best for Holmes Beach,” said Cheshire.

Constance Kihm, center, announces her resignation from the Holmes Beach Ad Hoc Committee at the Nov. 13 meeting. Members Renee Ferguson, left, and Scott Boyd, right, are seated next to Kihm. Islander Photo: Terry O’Connor The committee now includes Boyd, Jay Calhoun, Cheshire, Nancy Deal, Renee Ferguson, Pamela Leckie, Prince and Schaefer. Leckie was absent from the meeting. The committee will next meet at 1 p.m. Monday, Dec. 4, at city hall, 5801 Marina Drive.

Roadwatch

Eyes on the road

The Florida Department of Transportation posted the following advisories for the week of Nov. 20: SR 789/Gulf Drive from SR 64/Manatee Avenue to SR 684/Cortez Road: Manatee County crews are installing new force mains and water mains. For information, visit www.amipipereplacement.com. SR 789/Gulf Drive in Bradenton Beach: Crews are installing a sidewalk along Gulf Drive from just south of 13th Street South to the North Coquina Beach Boat Ramp. Expected completion is late 2017. SR 684/Cortez Road at 119th Street West in Cortez: Crews are working on signals and concrete medians. Work will be suspended the evening of Wednesday, Nov. 22-Sunday, Nov. 26. For the latest road watch information, go online to www.fl511.com or dial 511.

THE ISLANDER n Nov. 22, 2017 n 11

Center banks on donors to boost revenue, make up shortfall

By Bianca Benedí islander reporter the center of anna maria island still lags in revenue four months into its fiscal year. However, board members say the center has improved program participation and they hope donors will respond with financial contributions. Board members met nov. 15 to review the center’s financial status and receive updates on operations. an audit will be ready for delivery by the december board meeting, board chair david Zaccagnino said, and the center will launch a new “story” in the coming weeks, as advised by the Black Isle Group, a consulting and leadership development firm hired and paid to review center operations by an anonymous benefactor. Finances, by the numbers For the 2017-18 fiscal year that began in July, the center is $109,991 in the red. the 2017-18 budget anticipated a $42,830 surplus by the end of october. program income was about $41,000 for the month of october, below the budgeted income of $45,000. fundraising brought in $21,000 for the month, below the expected $56,000. also, the center has not received any government donations or grants for the fiscal year. total income for october was $63,364.27. direct costs were more than $19,000 below budget and indirect support costs were $4,000 under budget. administrative expenses were more than $5,000 below budget. the center’s total net income for the month was $8,543.89 in the red. Board treasurer Jim froeschle pointed out that the center’s losses year-to-date were less than in 2016. at the end of october 2016, the center was $144,000 in the red, while for 2017 the center is $110,000 in the red. in addition, he pointed out, program income is up $30,000, direct costs are down $35,000 and indirect support — expenses like electricity and building main-

tenance — is down by $33,000. “the goal is still within reach,” froeschle said. He said the center improved its numbers wherever it comes within direct control. only fundraising, grants and endowments have not improved, he said. The center’s deficit reached more than $280,000 at the close of the 2016-17 fiscal year and the board covered the loss with the remainder of the accessible funds in the endowment, which was $850,000 in 2015, but now zero as a result of over-spending.

Fitness developments the center has gained 79 new members since partnering with island fitness, executive director Kristen Lessig said. island fitness, formerly located in Holmes Beach, is moving to the center at 407 magnolia ave., anna maria. membership for island fitness will be combined into the center membership and island fitness users will be asked to join the center after a grace period, through november. By december, island fitness members must be center members. island fitness will receive a portion of the center’s membership income and will furnish its own trainers, classes and equipment. Lessig said the move frees up fitness director Shay coleman to teach crossfit classes, which she said are in high demand. The center’s 2-year-old fitness equipment was provided in September 2015 by then-board member Shawn Kaleta on a low-interest note. However, Lessig said that while the center is closed for Thanksgiving, Island Fitness will move its equipment into the gym and the center equipment will be returned to Kaleta. Kaleta provided the gym equipment to the center with a note for $100,000 and terms for payback in two years. By September 2017, according to the terms, the the note was due with interest. However, Kaleta told the islander he’s willing to forgive the note from the cash-strapped center and take

Center of Anna Maria Island monthly ﬁnances program income fundraising gov’t/grant income other income costs, direct costs, indirect costs, admin net income

october $41,338.11 $20,933.16 $0 $1,093 $28,319.45 $36,006.80 $7,581.91 -$8,543.89

Budget $45,000.56 $56,025 $105,000 $2,583.34 $208,608.90 $40,116.13 $12.841.31 $108,042.75

difference -$3,662.45 -$35,091.84 -$105,000 -$1,490.34 -$19,289.26 -$4,109.33 -$5,259.40 -$116,586.64

back the equipment. in addition to providing the equipment, Kaleta paid for the conversion of the second-floor facilities from offices to a workout gym, including permitting and construction. Kaleta put that price tag at about $150,000. at the board meeting nov. 15, Zaccagnino said the center and Kaleta signed a release of lien. In another fitness matter, members of SilverSneakers — a benefit under Medicare for senior citizens — can expect a costly policy change. Lessig said due to a change in how the program reimburses fitness centers, it is no longer financially viable for the center. Lessig said SilverSneakers only reimburses the center $25 per member per month. according to the center website, effective Jan. 1, 2018, SilverSneakers participants will need to purchase an annual senior pass for $441 and seek reimbursement from medicare or their insurance provider. the center is offering a 10 percent discount to SilverSneakers participants until the end of the year. Upcoming plans the center is preparing to send mailers, including its impact report, with a request for donations. also, a celebration of giving event will be hosted friday, dec. 1, by Beach Bistro owners Sean murphy and wife Susan timmins. murphy is a former board member and co-founder of the endowment fund. Ticketing and other information was not available by press time for the islander. in addition, the Lester family fun day is scheduled for Saturday, dec. 2, with pony rides, arts and crafts, a bounce house and performances by a drum line and ballerinas. the old-fashioned holiday event is sponsored by Chuck and Joey Lester of Holmes Beach. Raffle and game tickets, as well as lunch items will be offered at family-friendly prices. the event is not a fundraiser. Bingo is planned to start up in January.

It’s Beginning To Look A Lot Like Local Shop Local Eat Local Spend Local Enjoy Local Great Up-Coming Holiday Shopping Events soulRcoaster | 1-3pm

Ray Gardner, a coach for the Center of Anna Maria Island flag football league, directs kids Nov. 15 during a player draft. Islander Photo: Bianca Benedí

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AMI Chamber Downtown Holmes Beach Tree Lighting and Holiday Party 5-9pm Dec. 1st

DRINKS Anna MariaSOFT Island Centre Holmes Beach Thank you to our Midtown Holiday Event Sponsor for Block Party lighting us up!! 5:30-7:30pm Dec. 15th

City of Anna Maria Holiday of Treasures Begins 4:30pm Dec. 8th

City of Bradenton Beach Christmas on Bridge Street 12-9pm Dec. 16th

For more information visit www.amichamber.org/events Or call 941-778-1541

Island happenings

12 n Nov. 22, 2017 n THE ISLANDER

Come scratch up a deal! Flea Market, Treasures & Collectibles

Cultivating children’s programs

8-? Sunday Nov. 26 Rader’s Reef 5508 Marina Drive Holmes Beach

The Anna Maria Island Garden Club recently donated children’s books to the Island Library in honor of Jackie Meaker. Celebrating the support are library supervisor Inez Tamahana, left, garden club president Dusty Crane, past president Zan Fuller, Meaker’s daughter Sarah Meaker, club secretary Kathy Patten and youth librarian Trudy Hill-Bell. For more information, call Fuller at 813-5039364.

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Maritime museum celebrates 10th anniversary the florida maritime museum in cortez will celebrate its 10th anniversary by collecting stories for an exhibit. An announcement from the museum said, “We have been sharing stories with you for 10 years about the unique maritime history the state of florida has to offer. now, we want you to share your stories with us. Come to FMM the first two weeks of December

… to share with us what ‘maritime’ means to you and the community. express yourself through words by jotting down your thoughts, drawing a picture or sharing a memory on a piece of canvas that will later be displayed as the museum’s summer 2018 exhibit.” the “stories” will be collected dec. 1-dec. 16. The museum is at 4415 119th St. W., Cortez. for more information, call 941-708-6120.

Art league presents jewelry workshop

M-F 8am-5pm Tuesday 9am-7pm Saturday 8am- 3pm 9516 Cortez Road W, Ste 7 Mount Vernon Plaza #MM34454

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New artist arrives at Guild Gallery

the anna maria island art League will host Lori Heintz presenting a workshop on crafting wire jewelry. Heintz holds a bachelor’s degree in fine arts from michigan State university and a master’s from Western Michigan University. She has worked as an instructor for K-12 Schoolcraft Schools. Workshop students will learn wire-forming techniques, as well as hammering and embellishing. The workshop will be 1-5 p.m. Monday, Nov. 27, at the art league studio, 5312 Holmes Blvd., Holmes Beach. the cost is $50 for members, $60 for nonmembers, and includes supplies. for more information, call amiaL at 941778-2099.

Sharon Tarras is showing her work at the Guild Gallery in the Island Shopping Center, a coop gallery operated by the Artists’ Guild of Anna Maria Island at 5414 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. The watersubmit your news and photos to news@islander.org. we colorist resides in the area during the winter season welcome announcements of community events and activiand summers in Wisconsin. Islander Courtesy Photo ties for island Happenings. please include a contact.

Exhibiting at IGW

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Maria Sine, who shares her love of nature with acrylic and watercolor paints, will be Island Gallery West’s featured artist in December. Her exhibit will be “Land and Sea” — featuring “vibrant acrylic and watercolor paintings of distant lands and the creatures found in and around our local waters.” Sine focuses on local sea life in her paintings. A highlight of the monthlong exhibit will be a public gallery reception 5:30-7:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 1, as part of the downtown Holmes Beach holiday party. IGW is at 5368 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. For more information, call 941-7786648.

Island happenings

THE ISLANDER n Nov. 22, 2017 n 13

Garden club presents honors at ﬂower show

K.C. Jeronimo of Anna Maria Island is a top winner in the Manatee River Garden Club’s flower show, held Nov. 3-4 in Bradenton. She received the Designer’s Choice Award. Islander Courtesy Photo

Meditation class offered

the anna maria island art League will host Sheryl Spikes teaching a meditation class in november and december. the class will meet at 11 a.m. Saturdays, nov. 25 and dec. 24. the donation-based class meets at the art league, 5312 Holmes Blvd., Holmes Beach. Spikes is a 25-year resident of the island. She’s also a nurse with 45 years experience in “energy healing work” and eight years experience teaching mediation. for more information, call amiaL at 941778-2099.

Center celebrates holidays with fun day

the manatee river garden club held the “e-ie-i-o, down on the farm” flower Show nov. 3-4 in Bradenton. the show featured educational exhibits, photography displays and club members showing their floral designs and gardening skills. the club presented the following awards: for design: Barb Beury, award of design excellence; Kc Jeronimo of anna maria island, designer’s Choice Award; Parke Finold, Petite Award; and Janice Hamlin, table artistry award. for horticulture: carol friedman, award of Horticultural excellence; Janice Hamlin, award of merit; cass robertson and crystal Herold, grower’s choice awards; and chris o’grady, arboreal award. for special exhibits: crystal Herold, educational top exhibitor award; and Sandy plummer, mrgc photography award. the manatee river garden club is at 3120 first Ave. W., Bradenton.

Please, join Your Personal Touch and Seaside Laundromat for a ribbon-cutting and open house 5-7 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 29, including refreshments and happy hour treats.

Winterfest ahead

the anna maria island art League is preparing for its annual Winterfest juried arts and crafts show. the festival will be 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Saturday-Sunday, Dec. 9-11, at city field, 5801 Marina drive, Holmes Beach. the festival traditionally features a juried art exhibit, an exhibition of children’s art and a children’s activity area, a food court, community booths and a raffle of work by Winterfest artists. the nonprofit’s Springfest will be march 10-11, 2018. the art league is at 5312 Holmes Blvd., Holmes Beach. for more information, call 941-778-2099.

CrossPointe hosts brunch

The REAL Women of CrossPointe Fellowship will host a christmas Brunch and program at 9:30 a.m. Saturday, dec. 2. old-fashioned fun in old florida? the event is free. this is what the center of anna maria island the church is at 8605 gulf drive, Holmes promises with Lester family fun day, set for 10:30 Beach. a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday, dec. 2. for more information, call 941-778-0719. Chuck and Joey Lester of Holmes Beach sponsor the celebration. an announcement from the center promises “a lineup of fun activities and performances along with Christmas market to open delicious food and great prizes.” at Annunciation Specifically, Lester Family Fun Day will feature The popular Holly Berry Bazaar will take pony rides, face-painting, crafts, games, a bounce place 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday, dec. 9, at the epishouse, performances by the manatee High School copal church of the annunciation. drum Line and the diane partington Studio of clasThe sale takes place in the church hall, 4408 sical Ballet and an appearance by Santa at noon. gulf drive, Holmes Beach. Also, the day offers opportunities to dunk center organizers promise to transform the hall into executive director Kristen Lessig. North Pole Central for the day, with the kitchen in addition, a golf ball drop — a 50-50 fundraiser open for lunch and snacks, raffles held for gift — will be at 1:30 p.m., with the closest ball to the hole baskets, sales of homemade pot pies, baked goods, winning half the pot. Balls are $100 each. jarred sweet pickles, crafts, jewelry, Christmas the center has not announced the lunch menu for decorations, household items and other goods. the event. For more information, call the church office the center is at 407 magnolia ave., anna maria. at 941-778-1638. for more information, call the center at 941-7781908.

Visit www.islander.org for the best news on AMI.

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14 n Nov. 22, 2017 n THE ISLANDER

The Islander Calendar LOOKING AHEAD OFF AMI

Dec. 1-3, Bradenton Blues Fest weekend, Bradenton. Feb. 17-18, 2018, Florida Institute for Saltwater Heritageâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Cortez ComONGOING ON ANNA MARIA ISLAND mercial Fishing Festival, Cortez. Feb. 25, Anna Maria Island Concert â&#x20AC;˘ Throughout November, Marti Salerni exhibits her artwork in Chorus and Orchestra Broadway and Beyond concert, Bradenton. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Petal Away,â&#x20AC;? Island Gallery West, 5368 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. March 25, Anna Maria Island Concert Chorus and Orchestra Opera Information: 941-778-6648. Concert, Bradenton. â&#x20AC;˘ Through Dec. 23, 10th anniversary celebration at Studio at KIDS & Gulf and Pine and â&#x20AC;&#x153;10byTenâ&#x20AC;? community exhibit, 10101 Gulf Drive, FAMILY Anna Maria. Information: 941-778-1906. â&#x20AC;˘ Through Jan. 6, Fernado Solerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s acrylic painting exhibit, ON ANNA MARIA ISLAND â&#x20AC;&#x153;Aquatic FantaSea,â&#x20AC;? Studio at Gulf and Pine, 10101 Gulf Drive, Wednesday, Nov. 29 Anna Maria. Information: 941-778-1906. 6 p.m. â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Telescope program with sky-viewing and discussion, LOOKING AHEAD ON AMI Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941Dec. 1, Holmes Beach Art Walk and Holiday Open House, 778-6341.

ONGOING OFF AMI â&#x20AC;˘ Through Dec. 8, ArtCenter Manatee exhibits Sarasota Sumi-e Society work and Off The Wall, 209 Ninth St. W., Bradenton. Information: 941-746-2862. â&#x20AC;˘ Through Dec. 16, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Cuban Fishing Ranchos in Tampa Bayâ&#x20AC;? exhibit, Florida Maritime Museum, 4415 119th St. W., Cortez. Information: 941-708-6120.

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Feb. 24, 2018, Pittsburgh Pirates spring training home opener, Bradenton. April 4, 2018, Rotary Club of Anna Maria Island golf Dec. 1, Downtown Holmes Beach Holiday Walk and Tree Lighttournament, Bradenton. ing, Holmes Beach. Dec. 2, Center of Anna Maria Island Lester CLUBS & Family Fun Day, Anna Maria. Dec. 3, Roser Memorial Community COMMUNITY Church Advent Family Night, Anna Maria. Dec. 8, Santa in the Park, Anna Maria. Dec. 8, Anna Maria Holiday of Treasures open house ON ANNA MARIA ISLAND and walk, Anna Maria. Dec. 9, Anna Maria Island Privateers Christmas Parade, islandwide. Dec. 15, Anna Maria Island Centre shop- Wednesday, Nov. 22 ping plaza holiday party, Holmes Beach. 7 p.m. â&#x20AC;&#x201D; All Island Denominations Thanksgiving ecumenical service, CrossPointe Fellowship, 8605 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. LOOKING AHEAD OFF AMI Information: 941-778-0719. Dec. 15, holiday movie on the Riverwalk, Bradenton. Thursday, Nov. 23 2 p.m. â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Community Thanksgiving dinner, Roser Memorial Community Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Reservations

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Saturday, Nov. 25 9 a.m. â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Naturalist-led wagon tour, Robinson Preserve, 1704 ONGOING ON AMI 99th St. NW, Bradenton. Information: 941-742-5923. Tuesday, Nov. 28 â&#x20AC;˘ Nov. 20-22, all day, kids holiday camp, Center of Anna Maria 10 a.m. â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Rock painting class, Robinson Preserve, 1704 99th Island, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria. Fee applies. Information: St. NW, Bradenton. Information: 941-742-5923. 941-778-1908. ONGOING OFF ANNA MARIA ISLAND â&#x20AC;˘ Wednesdays, 5:30 p.m., Wednesday Night Blast, CrossPointe Fellowship, 8605 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778â&#x20AC;˘ Second and fourth Wednesdays, Roser Memorial Community 0719. Church GolďŹ ng for God, IMG Academy Golf Club, 4350 El Conquisâ&#x20AC;˘ Tuesdays, 3:15 p.m., after-school childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s choir, Roser tador Parkway, Bradenton. Fee applies. Info: 941-778-0414. Memorial Community Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Informaâ&#x20AC;˘ Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays, 1-4 p.m., ACBL Open tion: 941-778-0414. Pairs Duplicate Bridge, The Paradise Center, 6200 Gulf of Mexico â&#x20AC;˘ TerriďŹ c Tuesdays for community and families, 5:30 p.m., Roser Drive, Longboat Key. Fee apples. Information: 941-216-9600. Memorial Community Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. InformaLOOKING AHEAD OFF AMI tion: 941-778-0414.

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â&#x20AC;˘ Wednesdays and Saturdays, 9 a.m., horseshoes pitched, Anna Maria City Hall, 10005 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria. Information: 941-708-6130. â&#x20AC;˘ Fridays, usually at 1 p.m. but not Nov. 24, mahjong games, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941778-6341. â&#x20AC;˘ Mondays, noon, bridge, Roser Memorial Community Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Information: 941-778-0414. â&#x20AC;˘ Tuesdays, 12:15 p.m., duplicate bridge, Episcopal Church of the Annunciation, 4408 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-779-0881.

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downtown Holmes Beach. Dec. 9-10, Anna Maria Island Art League Winterfest juried arts and crafts festival, Holmes Beach. Dec. 10, Anna Maria Island Concert Chorus and Orchestra holiday concert, Holmes Beach. Jan. 6, Island Gallery West acrylics demonstration with Lee Mears, Holmes Beach. Jan. 11-28, Island Playersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; â&#x20AC;&#x153;Beyond a Joke,â&#x20AC;? Anna Maria. March 8-25, Island Playersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Curious Savage,â&#x20AC;? Anna Maria. March 10-11, 2018, Anna Maria Island Art League Springfest juried arts and crafts festival, Holmes Beach. May 3-13, Island Playersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; â&#x20AC;&#x153;An Inspector Calls,â&#x20AC;? Anna Maria.

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THE ISLANDER n Nov. 22, 2017 n 15

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Dec. 2, CrossPointe Fellowship’s REAL Women’s Christmas Brunch, Holmes Beach. Dec. 4, Artists’ Guild of Anna Maria Island holiday party, Holmes Beach. Dec. 7, Anna Maria Island Garden Club ﬁeld trip to the Sunken Gardens, St. Pete. Dec. 9, Episcopal Church of the Annunciation Holly Berry Bazaar and Food Market, Holmes Beach. Jan. 11, Friends of the Island Library Lecture and Travel Series begins, Holmes Beach. Feb. 15-17, Friends of the Island Library annual book sale, Anna Maria. March 3, Anna Maria Island Historical Society Heritage Day Festival, Anna Maria. March 21, Anna Maria Island Garden Club Penny Flower Show, Anna Maria. April 18, Anna Maria Island Garden Club Fashion Show, Anna Maria.

ONGOING ON ANNA MARIA ISLAND

• Wednesdays in November, Einstein’s Circle discussion meetings, Center of Anna Maria Island, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria. Information: 941-778-1908. • Second and fourth Wednesdays, 11 a.m. Just Older Youth/ JOY Brown Bag Lunch Series, Roser Memorial Community Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Information: 941-778-0414. • Thursdays, 9 a.m.-noon, (although not on Thanksgiving) Manatee County Veteran Services Divisions counseling and assistance, Island Library, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341. • Third Thursdays, 11:45 a.m., Successful Women Aligning ONGOING OFF AMI Together meets, Bridge Street Bistro, 111 Gulf Drive S., Bradenton Beach. Fee applies. Information: 941-345-5135. • Second Wednesdays during season, Off Stage Ladies meet• Fridays, but not Nov. 24, Senior Adventures usually meet to ing and luncheon, various venues, Bradenton. Information: 941-932carpool on an adventure or for an activity, Annie Silver Community 2798. Center, 103 23rd St. N., Bradenton Beach. Information: 941-538OFF AMI LOOKING AHEAD 0945. • Saturdays, 8:30 a.m., Kiwanis Club of Anna Maria Island Dec. 13, Florida Maritime Museum lecture, Cortez. breakfast meeting, Anna Maria Island Beach Cafe, 4000 Gulf Drive, GOOD TO KNOW Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-1383. SAVE THE DATES • Tuesdays, noon, Rotary Club of Anna Maria Island, Bridge Street Bistro, 111 Gulf Drive S., Bradenton Beach. Information: 941• Thursday, Nov. 23, Thanksgiving. 518-1965. • Thursday, Dec. 7, Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day. • Second and fourth Tuesdays, Concerned Neighbors of Bra• Tuesday, Dec. 12, Hanukkah begins. denton Beach general membership meetings, Annie Silver Com• Thursday, Dec. 21, ﬁrst day of winter. munity Center, 103 23rd St. N., Bradenton Beach. Information: 941• Monday, Dec. 25, Christmas Day. 730-7715. • Sunday, Dec. 31, New Year’s Eve. LOOKING AHEAD ON AMI

GET LISTED

Send announcements for The Islander’s calendar to calendar@ islander.org. The deadline for listings is the Wednesday before the publication date. Please include the date, time, location and description of the event, as well as a phone number for publication.

GOOD DEEDS VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES Looking for volunteer opportunities on or around Anna Maria Island? These organizations are seeking help: • The Center of Anna Maria Island, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria, is seeking volunteers. Volunteer orientations take place at noon and 6 p.m. the ﬁrst Thursday of each month. Information: 941778-1908. • The Roser Food Bank needs donations of cash and nonperishable food. The pantry is administered by Roser Memorial Community Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Information: 941778-0414. • The Anna Maria Island Historical Society, 402 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, seeks volunteers to serve as docents and in other ways. Information: 813-758-3234. • The Florida Maritime Museum, 4415 119th St. W., Cortez, seeks volunteers for the gift shop, visitor services, grounds, gardens, building maintenance, classes and more. Information: 941708-6120. • Moonracer Animal Rescue seeks volunteers to offer foster and forever homes for rescued animals. Information: 941-345-2441. • Manatee Community Concert Band seeks volunteers for its 2017-18 concert season. Information: 260-410-4126. Looking for volunteers for an organization or an event? Email calendar@islander.org with the details. Please include a contact name and phone number.

Garden-to-table choices

Rather Welch, holding Willabel, who just turned 1 on Halloween, peruses a table of herbs for their home garden at the Anna Maria Island Garden Club Plant Sale Nov. 18 at Roser Church in Anna Maria. Islander Photo: Bonner Joy

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New ‘vintage’ sign donated to cultural center

Ted Adams, left, president of the Cortez Village Cultural Center, Bob Landry, center, and Paul Williams of Salvage Signage in Bradenton, show off a replica of a 1920s-style sign Williams donated to the center, 11655 Cortez Road W. “Ted tried to order it from me, but I wouldn’t let him,” Williams said with a laugh. Islander Photo: Terry O’Connor

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16 n Nov. 22, 2017 n THE ISLANDER

CrossPointe hosts AID Thanksgiving program

Island churches give thanks

roser memorial community church, 512 pine Ave., Anna Maria, will hold a Thanksgiving worship service at 10 a.m. nov. 23. crosspointe fellowship, 8605 gulf drive, Holmes Beach, will host all island denominations ecumenical Thanksgiving service at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 22. At noon on Thanksgiving, CrossPointe will host a lunch in the fellowship hall. gloria dei Lutheran church, 6608 marina drive, Holmes beach, will hold its Thanksgiving worship service at 10 a.m. nov. 23. episcopal church of the annunciation, 4408 gulf

crosspointe fellowship will host the annual all Island Denominations’ Thanksgiving ecumenical service nov. 22. those who attend are encouraged to bring donations for the food pantry at roser memorial community church. refreshments will be served after the program. the program will begin at 7 p.m. at the church, 8605 gulf drive, Holmes Beach. for more details about the service, call crosspointe at 941-778-0719. more information about aid and the services the organization provides is available at the churches or through the anna maria island chamber of commerce.

Your turkey dinner, dessert too, made easy, fun

granny’s turkey Dressing This dressing can really make the meal special. This “stuffing” recipe originated with my stepfather’s mother. i have to wonder why we don’t have it more than once a year — it’s really simple. Here’s how i do it now. in a disposable, foil roaster pan, mix two bags of seasoned, cubed stuffing mix with one bag of crunchy corn bread stuffing mix. Stir in one large chopped onion and a large head of celery chopped. (do not saute the onions.) Brown 1 pound each hamburger and breakfast sausage and mix in with the other ingredients. Sprinkle with poultry seasoning (pre-mixed spice). While you’re doing all this, you

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James Louis Studenka, 74, of Metamora, Ohio, and anna maria, died nov. 6, at ebied Hospice in Sylvania, ohio. He was born may 15, 1943, in adrian, michigan, to the late Louis and mary (ricica). He served in the u.S. army. He was a farmer and also worked for 29 years as a deputy for the Fulton County Sheriff’s Office. He was a lifetime member of the Catholic War Veterans Post No. 306 in Assumption, Ohio. Mr. Studenka also was a member of the american Legion post no. 265, evergreen athletic Boosters and the czech dancers Polka Club. He was a boy when he began coming to the island during the winter months and attended anna maria elementary School. He was a longtime seasonal resident of anna maria, where his family owns a home. in his retirement years, he usually arrived to anna maria in early november and stayed through april. He only skipped going to sunset at the Sycamore Avenue deck when he was dining out — the German spots among his favorite destinations. Services were Nov. 10 at Weigel Funeral Home in metamora. condolences may be made online at weigelfuneralhomes.com. He is survived by son todd and wife Linda; daughter Jennifer Studenka Amos; grandchildren Blake and Logan Amos; sister Mary and husband Ed Gajdostik; and many islanders who considered him family.

should have been boiling the turkey giblets. Pour the giblet water plus some au jus from the turkey over the dressing to moisten — not too wet, just to thicken and moisten the breading. Add some of the giblets, finely chopped, setting aside some giblets for your gravy. This dressing can go in the oven when the turkey comes out, as it only takes a short time to cook — mostly to brown the top. i usually brown it, stir it, and some orange zest. more strawberries? more is better. This makes a lot of relish but it freezes well and brown again a few times. And since the turkey is out and being carved, quickly de-bone and chop up the you can use it up at christmas. (if you’re invited to crispy wing meat and browned skin and stir into the dinner, quickly offer to bring the cranberry relish.) dressing. More tips, dessert I finally began to focus on the favorites on the smooth gravy every time Next step, remove the turkey to cool and slice and holiday menu after years of too much food. Who needs put the big roasting pan on the stove top at a medium anything more? Well, you need desserts, of course. I used to expertemperature, add a cup of water or two and stir, stir, stir. Remove the vegetable scraps that cooked with the iment with familiar recipes by adding liqueurs to pies turkey and you’ve got a rich au jus to make gravy. To and cakes. You also can create a delicious pecan pie finish — no lumps, guaranteed — mix three to four by adding chunks of chocolate, which then melt and tablespoons of soft butter (not melted) with the same settle deliciously to the bottom when baked. Or add amount of flour. Mix until smooth, and spoon into the chocolate liqueur or bourbon to a regular pecan pie simmering au jus. Stir until thickened, adding more recipe for a warm, yummy result. Kahlua works well in pumpkin or banana bread as a substitute for corn flour-butter mix (it’s called roux) if needed. syrup. I gave up cooking pumpkin pie in favor of HarFlorida cranberry relish the cranberry relish is my recipe. it’s all done ry’s continental Kitchens pie — with drambuie. as in the blender or food processor. (Friends know I do an alternative, try mixing a liqueur into the whipped things the easy way whenever possible.) dump in one topping — made from scratch, of course. for perfect whipped cream, chill the bowl and the bag of fresh cranberries, add sections from one peeled florida orange, a quart of fresh strawberries (if frozen, utensils, whip the cream before adding vanilla bean or be sure to get the whole ones with no added sugar extract, and use powdered sugar to taste. i hope your holiday is a wonderful one. or water). then chop, chop, chop. pour in about 10 I confess, I already cooked a small bird for sandpackets of Equal or Splenda, to taste. Of course, you wiches, and my Thanksgiving dinner will be with can use sugar, but I never do and no one knows. another thing i never do is measure. Blend, chop, friends at roser church. i wish you a great holiday with family and friends. whir it all up and then mix in chunky chopped pecans and crispy, tiny bits of chopped celery. finish with And remember not to overcook your bird.

1,195

James Louis Studenka

Pastor Stephen King

Art by Joan Voyles

By Bonner Joy i learned long ago from my friend and chef, augie Mrozowski, who now owns and operates the very successful Augie’s Front Burner in downtown Springfield, Illinois, how to cook a turkey like the pros — moist, tender, delicious and easy. We cook the bird upside down at 400 degrees Fahrenheit and only turn it over at the end for about 10-15 minutes to brown the top. (No stuffing.) Before the turkey goes in, the pan is lined with potato and carrot peels, onion skins and celery tops and ends, and the bird is dusted liberally with salt and both white and fresh-ground black pepper. The turkey juice simmers with the veggies, then strained and poured off, it makes delicious gravy. But don’t overcook the bird. Use a meat thermometer if you must, check it often and you’ll enjoy some very moist, delicious turkey. A big 25-pound turkey should only have to cook two and a half hours.

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THE ISLANDER n Nov. 22, 2017 n 17

Roser church volunteers cooking up feast, giving thanks

By Sandy ambrogi islander reporter Marcia and Dale Powers are some of those folks who cook for large numbers of guests at the holidays â&#x20AC;&#x201D; say 200 or more. But they donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have to do it alone. for more than 15 years, the powers have been shopping, roasting, carving and performing other chores for the annual Community Thanksgiving Dinner at Roser Memorial community church, 512 pine ave., anna maria. Parishioners roast, bake and decorate for the event designed to give those who are alone in our community â&#x20AC;&#x201D; or those who just need a hand with Thanksgiving dinner â&#x20AC;&#x201D; a place for food and fellowship. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It was started for the folks here who had no one to eat with,â&#x20AC;? marcia powers said of the event, which has continued to grow year after year. â&#x20AC;&#x153;those who would otherwise not have a Thanksgiving dinner was the idea behind the event.â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;We welcome the homeless in our area, and those who are single or just donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have family close,â&#x20AC;? powers said. Great-granddaughter Danielle Vulgan, left, great-great-granddaughter Emery Vulgan, daughter Beryl Love-Rosche and granddaughter Roseanne Tennyson surround Harriett â&#x20AC;&#x153;Halâ&#x20AC;? Keyser Nov. 18 during her 106th birthday celebration. Friends and family gathered at the Ugly Grouper in Holmes Beach for music, fun and birthday cake. Islander Photo: Sandy Ambrogi

Fourteen or so church members roast turkeys at home and bring them to the church Thanksgiving morning for carving. drippings are saved for homemade gravy that simmers on the stovetop in the roser kitchen. fresh potatoes are boiled and smashed, and sweet potatoes, green beans and other side dishes are prepared. Rolls are baked and cranberry sauce is dished up for the buffet line. many of the volunteers have returned year after year â&#x20AC;&#x201D; itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the way they celebrate the Thanksgiving holiday. Others bake and bring a plethora of pies, including the sought-after pumpkin pies. other volunteers decorate the fellowship hall and the tabletops for the dinner. no disposables, here. itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s real plates and tableware all the way. The Roser Church Thanksgiving Dinner will begin at 2 p.m. thursday, nov. 23. reservations are required in advance â&#x20AC;&#x201D; thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s room for 220 diners. donations are appreciated. Marcia Powers, Suzanne Pescitelli and Linda Scott call the church at 941-778-0414 for reserva- bring arrive Nov. 16 at Roser Memorial Community tions. Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, to unload their groceries in advance of the Thanksgiving dinner at Roser Church at 2 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 23. Islander Photo: Bianca BenedĂ

Islander prospers at 106

Live long and prosper. and Harriet Keyser is really heeding the motto. Known as â&#x20AC;&#x153;Halâ&#x20AC;? to family and friends, she shares her name with a 35-foot boat that brought her and husband, the late B.J. Keyser, to anna maria island more than 40 years ago. In 1976, they left Ohio in the boat and took an ocean journey that landed them almost right across the street from the site of Keyserâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 106th birthday party, held nov. 18, at the ugly grouper, 5704 marina drive, Holmes Beach. at that time, Keyser was already 65 years old. â&#x20AC;&#x153;they lived on that boat for 10 years at galatiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s,â&#x20AC;? daughter Beryl Love-Rosche said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Then they finally bought a house right here in Holmes Beach and she has been here ever since.â&#x20AC;? Since 2004, the daughter has cared for Keyser. But she is not alone. Keyser has many family members and even more friends on anna maria island who pitch-in when needed. Keyser, along with other generations of women in her family, are huge fans of island bandleader dr. dave. She wanted dr. dave to play for her birthday and he obliged, even presenting Keyser with a certificate naming her an honorary band member. the band promoted the birthday show as â&#x20AC;&#x153;a celebration of the oldest living dr. dave Band follower.â&#x20AC;? Keyser took it all in stride, sitting like a queen at the head of a long table at the ugly grouper pavilion while well-wishers shook her hand or kissed her on the cheek. after all, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s been almost a half a century since the little boat named Hal carried this friend named â&#x20AC;&#x153;Halâ&#x20AC;? to anna maria island.

Joyce and Jim Lathrop greet Harriet â&#x20AC;&#x153;Halâ&#x20AC;? Keyser at her 106th birthday party Nov. 18. Islander Photo: Sandy Ambrogi Local favorite Dave Ferguson of the Dr. Dave Band presents Harriet â&#x20AC;&#x153;Halâ&#x20AC;? Keyser with a special certificate Nov. 18 at the Ugly Grouper for her 106th birthday, naming her as an honorary band member. Keyser had requested Daveâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s band for her party. Islander Photo: Joanne Ferguson

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18 n Nov. 22, 2017 n THE ISLANDER

Islanders open hearts, wallets for Puerto Rican neighbors

By Sandy ambrogi islander reporter a little restaurant on Bridge Street gave a big effort nov. 12. and it paid off. the Blue marlin, 121 Bridge St., Bradenton Beach, organized the Benefit for Puerto Rico to raise money for hurricane relief. Live Latin music, authentic caribbean cuisine and lots of prizes — donated by local businesses — raised more than $15,000 for the u. S. territory decimated Sept. 20 by Hurricane maria. Since Sept. 20, only about half the island has power restored, running water is still a luxury and thousands remain in shelters, hotels and with friends and family on the u.S. mainland. neighboring Bridge Street merchants and many beyond donated raffle items — ranging from a standup

paddle board to a stay on the island. as fate would have it, a puerto rican family, who now live in the local area, had the winning paddle board raffle ticket. “our goal was $15,000 and we raised more than that,” Blue marlin owner adam ellis said nov. 14 after tallies were completed. “We are going to see this through until the supplies are put in the hands of the people who are in need,” he said. “We’re in contact with the mayor of a small town called Manati. We also have family ties there. The mayor is putting together a list of supplies for us, so we can purchase and ship based on their needs.” He thanked islanders and visitors for their support, and promised upcoming reports on the status of the delivery and the relief effort.

Ines Norman, who hails from Puerto Rico, and lifelong friend Blanca Diaz, visiting from San Juan, Puerto Rico, enjoy the evening at the Nov. 12 Benefit for Puerto Rico at Blue Marlin restaurant, 121 Bridge St., Bradenton Beach. The restaurant is owned by Norman’s husband’s relatives, Adam and Marianne Norman Ellis. Islander Photo: Sandy Ambrogi

Sterling Holiday, left, and Jack Zaccagnino, both students at Anna Maria Elementary, display a dollar they collected Nov. 12 at the Benefit for Puerto Rico at Blue Marlin from the sale of their handmade shell bracelets. Islander Photos: Courtesy Kathy Caserta

Impromptu fundraising from the heart, kid-style

The crowd came early and stayed into the night at the Nov. 12 Benefit for Puerto Rico at the Blue Marlin. A stand-up paddleboard, a weekend stay on Bridge Street and items and services from local merchants were raffled. Custom T-shirts for the event also were sold. Islander Photo: Sandy Ambrogi

Sterling Holiday and Jack Zaccagnino were probably a little bored nov. 12 when their parents toted them along to Bridge Street. The boys and their families attended the Benefit for puerto rico at Blue marlin Seafood, 121 Bridge St., Bradenton Beach. The boredom didn’t last long. The pair quickly put their hands to work, creating bracelets for cash. “We wanted to help because we felt bad,” Jack said. “We took the shells with holes in them — they had little creatures in there, you know, but not now — Shells and palm fronds are transformed Nov. 12 into fundraising bracelets at the and put palm fronds in them.” Jack continued, saying he had “no idea” how Benefit for Puerto Rico at Blue Marlin by many they made but they added $30 to the donation young donors. jar before the evening came to a close.. “One lady gave us $20!” Jack said. “We also left them more bracelets to sell.” Sterling, son of Jessica Holmes Holiday and adam Holiday, and Jack, son of David and Mauri Zaccagnino, had some competition the following day. Little brother Jess Zaccagnino made some bracelets of his own and sold them to neighbors after school, matching the $30 donation. — Sandy Ambrogi

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NFL legend and smooth crooning Henry Lawrence entertains the crowd Nov. 15 at The Islander newspaper’s 25th anniversary celebration. Islander Photos: Sandy Ambrogi

A celebratory ribbon-cutting with representatives of the Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce launches year 26 at The Islander newspaper 25-year anniversary celebration Nov. 15 at the office, 3218 E. Bay Drive. Islander Photo: Courtesy Sugar Beach Digital/Kenny Heidt

It’s our paper and we’ll party if we want

It’s a silver anniversary for The Islander newspaper. Publisher Bonner Joy started the newspaper from nothing — a Mac computer, a small staff and an even smaller office — 25 years ago this month and the award-winning weekly has not missed a week since.

Katy Demick of AMI Resorts throws off a smile on her way through the crowd at The Islander 25th anniversary celebration. RIGHT: People serve themselves cheese and charcuterie.

Joy threw a whopper of party Nov. 15 to celebrate a quarter century of success on Anna Maria Island. A celebratory ribbon-cutting sponsored by the Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce took place to launch the 26th year. The TBone Trio entertained, with special guest and NFL great (Raiders No. 70) Henry Lawrence, whose smooth voice filled the night air. The outdoor walkways and parking lot at The Islander office, 3218 E. Bay Drive, was transformed into a party space and guests — some estimates went over 150 — lingered at tables under the stars. Tasty light bites and libations by the Beach Bistro made for lines at the food stations, while old friends caught up on stories, people reconnected and danced to great hits from the trio. Congratulations Bonner Joy for 25 years of “the best news” on Anna Maria Island. And for the best party of year! — Sandy Ambrogi

Guests: The ultimate stocking-stuffer for island resorts By Ed Scott Islander Reporter ’Tis the season to breathe in the sea air. Every year during Thanksgiving Week — since 2014 — about 10 members of a local family pack their bags for the short trip from Bradenton to Tortuga Beach Resort in Bradenton Beach, where they celebrate the birthday of their patriarch, who turns 102 this year. “Isn’t that nice?” said Barbara Baker, general manager and co-owner of Anna Maria Island Resorts, which operates Tortuga Beach. Thanksgiving and Christmas already are special holidays for many people. Celebrating them at the beach adds to the memories. Lori Calderone, manager of Anna Maria Motel in Anna Maria, says prospects are good for this holiday season. “We’re busy the majority of the time,” Calderone said. “Really, our only slow month anymore on the island is pretty much September,” when Hurricane Irma struck this year. “My November, December and January are looking pretty good.” Anna Maria Motel boasts nine units. Like banquet halls in some larger venues, each guest room is named after a species of fish. There’s something for everyone. The studios, one-bedroom units and sole two-bedroom unit sleep from two to six. Each unit has a full kitchen. Calderone says her property is full during Thanksgiving and Christmas. “They come back every year,” she said. “They bring their families. A lot of them cook on the grills.”

While families are cooking turkeys and ham on the grills at the Anna Maria Motel, the best thing that people can do at the four Anna Maria Island Resorts properties “is nothing,” co-owner David Teitelbaum says in a promotional video.

Anna Maria Motel manager Lori Calderone stands next to the sign in front of the motel. Islander Photo: Ed Scott

AMIR consists of Tortuga, Tradewinds, SeaSide and Tropic Isle beach resorts, all in Bradenton Beach. Room sizes and costs vary, from 350-square-foot studios to a 3,000-square-foot penthouse, with many onebedroom units that sleep four and two-bedroom units that sleep six. Each of the properties was offering a four-night special at press-time. “We have families that return every year and congregate,” Baker said. Most of the two-bedroom units at Tortuga already are rented for Thanksgiving and Christmas “because that is the kind of visitors that we have during this time of the year.” Baker still has some vacancies at other resorts. While accommodating people in all seasons, the resorts also connect with families for the cycle of life, Baker said. “We do have a lot of people who get married here and come back for those anniversaries,” she said. “Then they bring their families during the holidays.” The Anna Maria Motel and Anna Maria Island Resorts both reflect the family-oriented approach promoted by the island hoteliers and the Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau. Elliott Falcione, executive director of the BACVB, says October will be a down month this year compared to last, based on perception after Hurricane Irma struck in September. But area tourism is expected to pick back up again in November and December. “Because it’s a couples-family destination, we do see families coming down and enjoying their holidays in our area,” Falcione said, “especially around Christmas.”

20 n Nov. 22, 2017 n THE ISLANDER

Islander office stirs memories of 1957, elephant ride, old AMI

By Sandy ambrogi islander reporter oh, the memories. as the petite woman thumbed through the “images of America: Anna Maria Island” pictorial history book, she stopped frequently to point. the tall, quiet man accompanying her nodded in recognition. The conversation at The Islander office Nov. 1 began with a quest for an old photo that published several months ago in the newspaper, one of the woman’s ride on an elephant across the cortez Bridge for the grand opening in 1957. the conversation progressed through a slew of memories for the pair, who each called the island home in the 1940s and ’50s. “i want to say there was the cove motel there and there was a pier coming out from there and all the kids on the island would jump off that pier,” Caroyln grubbs Badamo said. “Jim and I hadn’t seen each other in 60 years. We graduated in ’55,” Badamo said, pointing to her companion, Jim rowe. “How long has it been, Jim?” rowe doesn’t hesitate: “Sixty-three years.” Badamo piped in, “We are going to the alumni dinner for the high school. they’re honoring the athletes from the alumni association of manatee High. The rest I can’t remember. Who else they are honoring Jim?” “She’s my date,” rowe said, pointing to Badamo, who winked in response. the subject changed again. rowe chimed in with a question for The Islander folks in the office, “Who is the gentleman who started the islander? ’53 or ’54, around then?” Bonner Joy, publisher of the newspaper and author of the book Badamo was perusing, replied, “Harry Varley.” rowe promptly answered with a wide grin, “i used to wash and wax his car when I was a kid.” It was not unlike a stream of consciousness exercise when the pair, Badamo — whose nickname was “grubby” after her maiden name of grubbs — and rowe spent their visit to the newspaper on a winding road trip down a shell-covered memory lane.

Carolyn Grubbs Badamo and Jim Rowe reminisce about Badamo’s elephant ride across the Cortez Bridge in 1957. Badamo reflected on the day pictured in Bonner Joy’s book, “Images of America: Anna Maria Island.” The pair stopped by The Islander office Nov. 1. Islander Photo: Bonner Joy “Here it is! this is the cove motel, Jim! that’s the pier that washed out. the road all washed out,” Badamo said on viewing a photo on page 84. rowe now lives in greenville, north carolina, and Badamo resides at freedom Village in Bradenton. But almost 70 years of living hasn’t dulled their recollections about their years on anna maria island. “There was about 20 of us island kids all together, junior high and high school, who rode the bus to the mainland for school. The island kids really stuck together,” rowe said. rowe’s parents ran the coquina restaurant by the

A celebration took place in March 1957 with the opening of the Cortez Bridge, replacing the one-lane wooden bridge. Elephants and “bathing beauties” — including Caroyln Grubbs Badamo — were the first to cross the Cortez Bridge at the event. The Florida Department of Transportation opened three bridges linking to Anna Maria Island in 1957 but the celebration focused on the Cortez Bridge — the long-awaited replacement for what had been the only bridge to the island for 36 years.

old post office in Anna Maria, not far from the site of the present-day Sandbar restaurant. they also were the first to run the concession stand when the Manatee Public Beach first opened. Badamo’s mother was the cook on a deep-sea fishing charter boat, The Clipper, that docked near the cortez Bridge. “I remember my mother cooking big batches of sloppy Joes at night at home to take on the boat the next day,” she said. Several years after the bridges were built to the mainland, they sold their island house for $4,000 and moved to Bradenton. “can you believe that — $4,000. it’s probably worth $400,000 now,” Badamo said. Rowe observed the island definitely had undergone major changes in the decades since he and his friend grubby jumped off piers, drove fast cars and spent nights on the beach under the stars. “It’s just not the same out here,” he said, shaking his head. Badamo, looking at the book, stared at the blackand-white picture of herself atop a dressed-up asian elephant in cortez. about the elephant ride, she was matter of fact. “They just asked us if we would ride the elephant and i said oh, yeah.” Badamo remembered. “there were three of us doing it.” “the hair on that elephant was so wiry.” She remembered thinking, “I can handle that, but it was so itchy.” She remarked that she wore that same bathing suit on a float in one of the DeSoto parades. Badamo was enamoured with the picture her youthful self with the elephant. “i used to ride in the convertibles in the parades, too.” She trailed off. Rowe finally broke the spell. “Let’s go Grubby, and find something to eat.” the pair left, Badamo clutching the autographed book — a gift from Joy for sharing the memories — and an unexpected walk on Anna Maria Island’s memory lane for both of them, all before lunch. We should all be so lucky.

Caroyln Grubbs Badamo identified herself as the rider on the left in a 1957 photo taken at the opening of the new two-lane Cortez Bridge. Islander Courtesy Photos

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22 n Nov. 22, 2017 n THE ISLANDER

No sale yet, but WMFR plans search for new office facility By Bianca Benedí islander reporter West Manatee Fire Rescue is looking for new, smaller offices. The agency is looking for a replacement for the current administrative building, which has been on the market since February. commissioners met nov. 16 to discuss leasing the current building, leasing new offices, purchasing a new facility or expanding an existing site — if and when a viable offer on the administrative building is made. Located at 6413 Third Ave. W., Bradenton, the 11,000-square foot building is on the market for $1.675,000. chief tom Sousa told commissioners owning a building is the most financially viable option. WMFR still has an approximate $1 million mortgage on the property, Sousa said, which could net $690,000 for WMFR if it sells at the asking price. Sousa said the agency could size down to a 4,000-square-foot building. commissioner david Bishop said searching for a new facility before receiving an offer is a “very prudent step.” Selling agent J. daniel douglass told commissioners that mostly investors have expressed interest in the property. in other business, the commission unanimously approved its new strategic plan and fire prevention code. The plan would increase WMFR’s life support from basic to advanced, commission chair george Harris said at the october board meeting, and the code

WMFR prepares for 2018

There won’t be a December meeting for the West manatee fire rescue board. commissioners voted nov. 16 on election and meeting dates for the new year, and canceled the december meeting. commission chair george Harris passed the gavel to commissioner Lawrence Jennis, who will serve as chair in 2018. Jennis is giving up his vice-chair title to commissioner al robinson, who will pass on the title of secretary-treasurer to commissioner randy cooper. cooper, who is running as a democratic candidate for florida House district 71, which encompasses parts of manatee and Sarasota counties, said he may have to step down from the commission in 2018, but he accepted the board position. the board also moved the day of monthly meetings from the third thursday of each month to the third tuesday of each month. the next board meeting will be at 6 p.m. tuesday, Jan. 16, 2018, at the WMFR administrative building, 6417 Third Ave. W., Bradenton.

creates more stringent fire safety and prevention provisions. in a discussion about the goal to provide advanced life support, Sousa said he plans to have aLS implemented on anna maria island by the new year. Sousa told the board at their nov. 28 meeting, the manatee county Board of commissioners is prepared to hear WMFR’s application for a certificate

of public convenience and necessity, which would enable WMFR’s application for an ALS license from the state. Sousa also told commissioners three federal grant applications WMFR submitted earlier this year were denied, pushing plans to purchase new self-contained breathing apparatuses, a $260,000 expense, to next year, when WMFR can reapply for grants, he said.

WMFR recommends PulsePoint apps West Manatee Fire Rescue is asking people to qualified CPR people to lend their service. download the pulsepoint app and accompanying the pulsepoint apps are available free for apple pulsepoint aed app. iphone and android phones. Designed to help people find the closest auto— Bianca Benedí mated-external defibrillator, the PulsePoint AED app also shows the location of people in need of seThe Pul help and can alert users who’ve marked themselves pp Point a as cpr-trained when an emergency is registered shows nearby. l medica ies. in addition, the pulsepoint app connects users nc emerge to emergency services. users can use the app to r Islande t identify the most recent medical emergency calls, ho s n Scree listen to radio communications from manatee County Department of Public Safety and track the location of medical emergencies in the area. In a public presentation on WMFR’s strategic plan nov. 9 at the island Library in Holmes Beach, WMFR Chief Tom Sousa told attendees to download the applications and encouraged any organization or business that has an aed to register the device on the app so people using pulsepoint and PulsePoint AED know it’s available in an emergency. the apps will inform smartphone users when a medical emergency is taking place nearby and asks

BBPD puts new patrol cars in service

Members of the Bradenton Beach Police Department look on as Mayor Bill Shearon hands a key to one of three new patrol cars to Officer Josh Betts at the Nov. 16 city commission meeting at city hall, 107 Gulf Drive N. Islander Photo: ChrisAnn Silver Esformes

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The City of Bradenton Beach is seeking candidates to fill a Commission seat vacancy for one full year. commission is responsible adopting all of the sea The City of the Bradenton Beach is seekingfor candidates toordinances fill a Commission city. the commission establishes its own operating rules and procevacancy for one full year. The Commission is responsible for adopting all dures and shall guidance to the mayorestablishes and fundingits forown city ordinances ofprovide the City. The Commission operations. it approves contracts entered into by the city and may operating rules and procedures and shall provide guidance to the Mayor an require reports from the mayor on city operations. the commission funding for City operations. It approves contracts entered into by the City an approves all appointments to panels, boards or committees recommay require from the Mayor on City operations. The Commission mendedreports by the mayor. approves allthe appointments to panels, boards committees recommended b deadline to apply is 3 p.m. friday,ordec. 1. the Applications are available at Mayor. the City Clerk’s office 8 a.m.-4 p.m. monday-friday at city Hall, 107 gulf drive n., Bradenton Beach fL Applications are available at City Hall, 107 Gulf Drive North, Bradenton Beac 34217. for moreFlorida infomation, 941-778-1005. 34217 at the City Clerk’s office Monday through Friday

Streetlife

THE ISLANDER n Nov. 22, 2017 n 23

By Kathy Prucnell

Island police blotter

anna Maria nov. 11, rod & reel pier, 875 n. Shore drive, lost property. A woman reported losing a diamond necklace. an extensive search was to no avail. nov. 12, Sandbar restaurant, 100 Spring ave., domestic disturbance. a couple from germany argued in the parking lot. The man parked their car and the woman walked away. Law enforcement searched for the woman about an hour. She was found safe. Anna Maria is policed by MCSO. bradenton beach Nov. 5, Coquina Park, 2650 Gulf Drive S., stolen tag. after watching the sunset at the beach, a Bradenton woman returned to the parking lot to find the tag missing from her vehicle. She reported the incident to the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office. Nov. 9, 100 block of Gulf Drive South, criminal mischief. a window of a rental vehicle was smashed during the night. the cost to replace the glass was estimated at $250. nov. 11, french table, 103 gulf drive, n., criminal mischief. A flagpole and sign were pulled off the storefront overnight, causing an estimated $300 in damage. nov. 11, 200 Bridge St., domestic disturbance. Bradenton Beach police responded to a report of an altercation and found a woman with hand injuries seated near the clock tower. She told police she and her boyfriend had argued. after interviewing both parties, police were unable to determine the aggressor and trespassed them both from the pier. emS responded, treated and transported the woman to Blake Medical center in Bradenton. nov. 13, Historic Bridge Street pier, 200 Bridge St., trespass. on foot patrol at about 4:30 a.m., a Bradenton Beach police officer observed a man sleeping on a bench. The man woke up and became verbally abusive to the officer, who trespassed him. The man left on a bicycle. Bradenton Beach is policed by BBPD. Cortez Nov. 8, 3800 block of 117th Street West, domestic disturbance. deputies responded to a report from a woman of an estranged husband taking a truck from a residence. She complained he had left her stranded. Nov. 8, 4200 block of 129th Street, trespass. A tres-

Cops & Court By Kathy Prucnell, Islander Reporter

Fort Myers man arrested for DUI in Holmes Beach

Bradenton man arrested in Holmes Beach for DUI

for the second time in two months, a Bradenton man was arrested for driving under the influence. mitchell egan, 21, was arrested nov. 8 for driving impaired in Holmes Beach after failing a field-sobriety test, according to a HBpd police report. egan was traveling north in the 2900 block of Gulf Drive at 2:45 a.m., Egan when police observed him swerving over the solid, double center lines. He told police he was taking Alprazolam and nearly fell during his field-sobriety test. after his arrest, egan was transported to the manatee county jail, where he submitted to blood-alcohol concentration tests, which measured 0.214 and 0.217. the legal limit is a 0.08 Bac. egan told law enforcement he’d been driving on a permit for business purposes due to a dui arrest in october. according to a Bradenton police report, egan was stopped oct. 15 after driving at a high rate of speed on 26th Street West. egan was assigned a $620 bond. He remained in custody nov. 15. His arraignment is set at 8:30 a.m. monday, dec. 11, at the manatee county Judicial center, 1051 manatee Ave. W., Bradenton.

pass warning was issued to a woman after she stayed longer than the property owner would permit. She gathered her belongings and left without incident. Cortez is policed by MCSO. Holmes beach nov. 11, island Bazaar, 3304 e. Bay drive, disorderly intoxication. Holmes Beach police responded to a report of people drinking and yelling outside the store. a man and woman continued to yell and disobey commands when the officers arrived. The woman attempted to walk away and an officer subdued her. Both were arrested and placed in patrol vehicles, where they kicked the windows and doors and were peppersprayed by police. they were transported to manatee

Holmes Beach police were alerted to a blue car swerving on Gulf Drive and tracked the vehicle on its path to palm drive. alexander dorrian, 23, of fort Myers, was stopped Nov. 7 by Officer Alan Bores, after the officer received a motorist’s tip at 1:22 a.m. at the Manatee Public Beach parking lot. The officer pulled Dorrian over after observing him driving a blue Dorrian Hyundai 50 mph in a 35-mph zone and swerving in the 7600 block of Palm Drive. Dorrian told the officer his driver’s license was suspended and he’d crossed the center lines because he did not know the area. During field-sobriety tests, Dorrian lost his balance and the officer made the arrest. dorrian was transported to the manatee county jail, where he provided breath samples, measuring 0.172 and 0.164. the legal limit is 0.08. Bores ticketed Dorrian for DUI, failure to use a designated lane, driving with a suspended license, an expired registration, no proof of insurance and a seatbelt violation. dorrian was assigned a $620 bond, which he posted and was released. dorrian’s arraignment is set at 8:30 a.m. monday, dec. 11, at the manatee county Judicial center, 1051 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton.

county jail. nov. 13, restless natives, 5416 marina drive, suspicious incident. a business sign, which had hung from the building, was found damaged in the parking lot. the sign was valued at $300. nov. 13, Sunbow Bay condominiums, 3805 e. Bay Drive, theft. While cleaning common areas, a woman reported leaving a leaf blower in a parking garage. The woman told police she walked away from the blower for about five minutes and when she returned, the blower, valued at $270, was gone. Holmes Beach is policed by HBPD. Streetlife is based on incident reports and narratives from the BBpd, HBpd and mcSo.

Island watch

in an emergency, call 911. to report information on island crime, call the manatee county Sheriff’s Office Anna Maria substation, 941-708-8899; Bradenton Beach police, 941-778-6311; or Holmes Beach police, 941-708-5804.

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24 n Nov. 22, 2017 n THE ISLANDER

Parents of AME ‘hardship’ students learn they’re losing transportation

By Sandy ambrogi islander reporter the short line of cars waited in the shade next to the palma Sola presbyterian church on 67th Street in west Bradenton. it was 3:30 p.m. and soon, the yellow school bus would stop and unload eight students after a short but crucial ride from anna maria elementary School on the island to the mainland. Parents were fidgeting to get back to work or home. One had a vocal toddler in the back seat. All needed the transportation furnished by the manatee county School district. on nov. 2, letters went out from the school district, informing parents who applied to have their students attend ame based on a hardship, typically a parent who works on the island or a family that recently

Carson Pemberton, a student in Jacque Jordan’s second-grade class at Anna Maria Elementary, exits the bus Nov. 16 after a ride to the mainland from the island school. Beginning Nov. 27, riders who are hard-shipped will no longer be offered transportation. Islander Photo: Sandy Ambrogi

moved from the island, that transportation between ame and the mainland would be discontinued nov. 8. After protests that parents were left without sufficient time to make other arrangements, the district agreed to continue busing hardship students until nov. 21. the parents became a vocal force from the beginning. “It’s definitely going to be a problem,” McKenzie Barrow said as she waited in line nov. 16 for her son to arrive at the bus stop. “But I will do whatever it takes to keep my son in anna maria elementary. the school is that good,” Barrow continued. “I just wish all schools could be like Anna Maria, then we would not be having this problem,” Barrow said. carson pemberton, a second-grader and secondyear student at ame, loves the school, his mother said. She has no intentions of transferring him to his zoned school on the mainland. carson’s mother said she didn’t receive a letter about the transportation ending. rather, she learned about it from another parent. Likewise, Jocelyn Greene, who previously lived in Holmes Beach and works in Anna Maria, said she was blindsided by the decision, finding out Nov. 10 from another parent. greene said she also did not receive a letter. Mike Barber, school district spokesman, said letters were mailed to parents. AME principal Jackie Featherston said the issue revolves around hardship students and choice students — two methods parents can choose to send students to a school outside of their home zoning district. according to featherston, students may hardship into a school at any point during the year. She said if someone gets a job on the island and wants to change the child’s school from a zoned school, or if the family moves off the island during the year, say to west Bradenton, and they want the student to continue at ame, they apply for a hardship that allows the children to continue at ame. “By signing the application, parents say they will be responsible for transporting their students to and from school daily,” featherston said. Students who attend ame under school choice are not affected by the bus-route change. the window for declaring a student as “choiced-in” occurs only once a year in march. choiced-in students at ame will not be affected by the transportation changes.

the reduced transportation plans also were blamed on a shortage of drivers and high absenteeism among drivers. the district employs 150 bus drivers but needs 175 to run its full routes. the district runs 200 routes, carrying 16,000 students per day, countywide. Before the driver situation became such a concern and the buses were not filled with students — there were two buses assigned to run ame routes and now there will be one. By consolidating two loads of riders into one route, there is no longer space for some of the mainland riders. “We have kids who have been riding that route to palma Sola for a number of years,” featherston said. “i would encourage parents to use the choice window in march to re-categorize their students from hardship to choice, taking care of the issue.” Meanwhile, parents like Greene and Barrow are struggling with their next move to keep their children at ame. “We have not established a plan yet,” Greene said. “ i would have signed up for choice last spring had i known this would happen. We want continuity for the children. i may have to change schools next year if we can’t work it out…. It’s difficult.” Barrow greeted carson as he climbed in the car for the ride home. “Whatever it takes is what I will do,” Barrow said, as the yellow school bus pulled away. By Sandy Ambrogi, sandy@islander.org

AME calendar

• Wednesday-Friday, Nov. 22-Nov. 24, no school, Thanksgiving holiday. • Tuesday, Nov. 28, picture retakes. • Wednesday, Dec. 6, full day of school for hurricane makeup. • 9:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Monday, Dec. 11-Friday, dec.15, Holiday Shopper open. • Tuesday, Dec. 19, fifth-grade play, dinner 5-6:30 p.m., performance 6:30 p.m. • Thursday, Dec. 21-Sunday, Jan. 7, winter break. • Monday, Jan. 8, classes resume. anna maria elementary is at 4700 gulf drive, Holmes Beach. for more information, call 941-708-5525.

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Rockin,’ boppin’ at AME

Anna Maria Elementary fourth-graders fill the school stage with song and dance Nov. 14 in their performance of “Rock Around the Fifties,” a musical tribute to the 1950s. Old favorites filled the school auditorium and students took advantage of the new, larger stage, recently completed with donations from the AME Parent-Teacher Organization. Islander Photos: Sandy Ambrogi

4th-graders rock the ’50s The audience knew the words by heart. But they were no match for the booming, song-filled Anna Maria Elementary fourth-graders Nov. 14 for their musical, “Rock Around the Fifties,” in the school auditorium. The song-and-dance production took place on the newly installed stage, donated by the AME Parent-Teacher Organization. The new stage is wider, giving students more room to perform. Fifties favorites, from “Mr. Sandman” to “Rock Around the Clock,” reverberated throughout the AME auditorium, as did the loud applause at the end of each number. Yep. They rocked it.

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Turtle watch reviews record 2017 nesting data, trends By chrisann Silver esformes islander reporter caring for sea turtles and their habitat is an ongoing conservation effort that keeps going strong â&#x20AC;&#x201D; even when sea turtle nesting wanes. By the end of october, there were no turtle nests on the island shoreline. itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s now time for Suzi fox, anna maria island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring executive director, to reviewsdata and trends from the season to determine what could be improved next year. â&#x20AC;&#x153;While this season was a record-breaker, there is always room for improvement,â&#x20AC;? fox said nov. 14. To do this, Fox and AMITW volunteers review data and discuss what they saw on the nesting beaches in 2017. one trend was a drop in the high number of false crawls noted in 2016. a false crawl occurs when a nesting female comes ashore, but retreats back to the Gulf of Mexico without laying a nest. fox said storms in 2016 created swales and escarpments on the beach that were a deterrence for nesting females. â&#x20AC;&#x153;They had to find their way around the swales last year,â&#x20AC;? fox said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;this year the beach was much more even.â&#x20AC;? fox said overall, the beaches are cleaner than they have ever been. â&#x20AC;&#x153;people are getting it,â&#x20AC;? fox said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Less holes, less trash and good practices all around.â&#x20AC;? fox also said lighting practices have improved in

the past 10 years. upon hatching, a sea turtle is guided by instincts to the reflections of the moon and stars on the Gulf of mexico. in some cases, mature females and hatchlings can become disoriented by artificial lighting leading them away from the water. according to fox, some of the money provided from the 2010 Bp oil spill in the gulf went to turtlefriendly light bulbs and fixtures all over the state. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The change has taken place big-time on AMI, but also all over the gulf coast,â&#x20AC;? fox said. even with regulations mandating lighting compliance, fox said there were more problems with disorientations than usual in 2017. She said this is concerning to the florida fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, which receives AMITW data as part of its work to protect endangered species on renourished beaches.

fox said, the number of disorientations was high for a year without a beach renourishment project. She said representatives from the FWC will visit the island next year for a lighting inspection, and help determine what needs to be brought into compliance before season begins may 1. fox attributes increased public outreach to the groupâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s success in 2017. She said AMITW printed more materials than previous years and distributed the handouts monthly to resorts and businesses. additionally, fox said there were more people in attendance a Turtle Talks, a weekly informational session during sea turtle season. â&#x20AC;&#x153;people are reading our materials, attending our talks and respecting our beaches better than ever,â&#x20AC;? Fox said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Visitors and residents on our island have really stepped up for our turtles.â&#x20AC;? At the peak of sea turtle nesting season, July 6, marked sea turtle nests share the beach near 70th Street in Holmes Beach. Islander File Photo: ChrisAnn Silver Esformes

AMITW seeks turtle-loving volunteers

Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring is looking to expand its volunteer base for the 2018 sea turtle season. Volunteers must be able to walk 2 miles of beach one day a week at sunrise during nesting season, may 1-oct. 31, to document nesting and hatching activities. Volunteers do not need to be year-round residents. training will begin in april 2018. For more information, contact AMITW executive director Suzi fox at suzilfox@gmail.com or 941-778-5638.

Three hatchlings race Aug. 9 to the Gulf of Mexico after being released on the beach near 33rd Street in Holmes Beach. The hatchlings were found in a nest that hatched three days before being excavated for data collection by turtle watch volunteers.

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A view above Anna Maria Island after Hurricane Irma in September. The hurricane generated many conversations about the impact of wind, rain and storm surge on the island, but also discussions among neighbors about climate change and sea-level rise. Islander Photo: Jack Elka

By Lisa Neff

Zillow gives us ‘Wow’

the new “Sunday drive” often involves my passenger checking in on Zillow, a real estate app, to see which homes are new on the market and the options to attend open houses. “turn here,” my wife will say, sometimes when i’m past the intersection. “turn there,” she’ll say, and sometimes i’ll go left when i needed to go right. Seeing or passing by three or four properties usually is the limit on the Neff drive. then we need to fortify, with lunch at a stop along the way or an ice-cream treat — a hot-fudge sundae for me, a doublevanilla malt for her. One of us, afterward, will remark, “Well, this is no way to save for a down payment.” the drive mostly involves going east on manatee avenue or cortez road — off-island. But occasion-

Manatees are on the move

manatees are migrating to warmer waters, according to the conservation officials. many seasonal manatee protection zones went into effect Wednesday, Nov. 15, and November is manatee awareness month. State officials have issued reminders encouraging boaters to slow down and look out for the large aquatic mammals as they search for warmer waters to help them survive winter’s cold, which they generally find in freshwater springs and the outflow of power plants. report injured, entangled, orphaned or dead manatees to the FWC’s Wildlife Alert Hotline at 888-404-FWCC (3922), #fwc or *fwc on a cellphone or text tip@myfwc.com.

ally we remove the filter for the maximum price and explore the island offerings. “to Zillow” may not be as common an activity as “to Google,” but I expect to find “Zillow” in my dictionary someday. Sometimes, Zillowing is recreational. Sometimes, Zillowing is work. Sometimes Zillow delivers a dud and sometimes a wow. Homebuyers and browsers who only use the app may not know about the extensive reports found on zillow.com. i came across a “wow” report in october listing the best neighborhoods in the United States for trickor-treating. the real estate experts used density, property value, income level and more to calculate which neighbors would be handing out the best candy. the advice is to head to San francisco’s presidio Heights next october. another recent “wow” report from Zillow — tipped to me by islander reporter Kathy prucnell — examines the threat rising sea levels pose to homes in the united States. Zillow’s experts looked at the impact on housing if the oceans rise 6 feet by 2100 — 6 feet is between the high end of the government’s conservative and “very likely” estimate of 4.3 feet and the possibility of 8 feet or greater that “cannot be excluded.” The experts also acknowledge in the report that sea levels will not rise uniformly — “we chose a midpoint rather than differentiating sea-level predictions for different coastal areas,” the report states. nationally, 1.9 million homes potentially would be underwater by 2100, according to Zillow. the 10 metropolitan areas to be hit hardest by rising seas? no. 1 is miami, where more than 481,000

homes could be underwater — a quarter of the area’s residential real estate. New York City ranked No. 2, followed by tampa and fort myers. naples placed no. 10 on the list and the greater Bradenton area was no. 9. for the Bradenton area, the experts estimate 39,744 homes, about 11.6 percent of the housing with a total value of $25.4 billion, potentially would be underwater in 2100. a chart for the area shows 81.3 percent of homes in terra ceia potentially underwater in 2100 and 20.6 percent of homes — 3,172 properties — potentially underwater in palmetto. the percentages for cortez, Longboat Key, Holmes Beach and Bradenton Beach are above 90. the graph doesn’t include anna maria. in Holmes Beach, the number of homes potentially underwater is 3,350 or 90.6 percent. in Bradenton Beach, the number of homes potentially underwater is 1,597 or a whopping 99.9 percent. i thought about the island percentages on my second Sunday drive in november, while Zillowing with my wife. Zillowing involves imagining what will be and what could be — two different exercises in my mind. i imagined the “disastrous” — what will be lost on anna maria island — if we don’t have serious local conversations about dealing with sea-level rise and climate change. and i imagined the “what could be” on anna maria island if we plan, prepare and act to deal with the inevitable encroachment of the gulf of mexico and climate change — not just to safeguard the pricey mcmansions, but to protect all property. We all need to be thinking forward.

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Final four set in adult soccer playoffs at community center By Kevin P. Cassidy Islander Reporter There were no upsets during first-round playoff action on Nov. 16 in the adult soccer league at the Center of Anna Maria Island, though the evening did not lack excitement. The opening game of the night between No. 3 seed Sato Real Estate versus No. 6 seed Moss Builders was decided by penalty kicks. The two teams battled to a 6-6 tie through regulation time before Sato prevailed in the shootout. Adam Mott Cassidy had a busy night in goal for Sato, making 14 saves and scoring two goals, leading the offensive charge. Zoran Kolega and Yunior Guerra each contributed a goal and an assist in the victory, while Josh Sato and Bobby Troxler completed the scoring with a goal each. Moss Builders received two goals each from Andre Lewis, Shay Coleman and Jillian Ptak, with Ptak also adding an assist. Goalie Jordan Demers made eight saves to help keep Moss Builders in the match. The second match of the evening saw No. 4 seed Jiffy Lube roll to an 8-3 victory over No. 5 seed Acqua Aveda behind four goals from Chris Klotz and three goals and an assist from Ricky Anderson. Danny Anderson completed the Jiffy Lube scoring with a goal, while Jason Sato made five saves to help preserve the win. Eric Pullen scored two goals to lead Acqua Aveda, which also received a goal from Rico Beissert and an assist from Ray Gardner, while Steve Oelfke made 5 saves between the pipes in the loss. Mulock Flynn Law slipped past Ross Built by a 3-2 score in the evening’s third match. Jessica Williams scored two goals and Chris Scott added a goal to lead Mulock Flynn, which received four saves from goalie Sean Flynn in the victory. Kevin Roman scored two goals and Ben Sato made four saves to lead Ross Built in the loss. As expected No. 1 seed Slim’s Place rolled to an easy 4-0 victory over No. 8 seed Mar/Kis Insurance. Angela Wiles had a goal and an assist to lead Slim’s, which also received goals from Matt Kretzman, Greg DeMeuse and the ageless Lyn Clark. Kris Yavalar and Damir Glavan chipped in with assists, while Dave Green made four saves to complete the shutout victory. Goalie Mario Prino made six saves to lead Mar/ Kis Insurance in the loss. The semifinal games are set for Thursday, Nov. 30, with Jiffy Lube facing Mulock Flynn Law at 7 p.m.

Mulock Flynn Law player Jessica Williams, center, settles the ball during first-round playoff action in the adult soccer league against Ross Built at the Center of Anna Maria Island. Williams scored two goals to help her team advance on a 3-2 win. Islander Photo: Kevin P. Cassidy and Slims vs. Sato Real Estate at 8 p.m. The championship match will be played at 7 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 7, at the center, 407 Magnolia Drive, Anna Maria. Key Royale news It was a busier than usual week for golfers at the Key Royale Club in Holmes Beach. The club hosted a “welcome back” coed scramble Nov. 11. The team of Mary Lou Dreier, Andi Saia, John Kolojeski and Gary Silke combined on a 5-under-par 27 to win the outing via scorecard tiebreaker over the team of Scott Mitchell, Karen Mitchell, Gloria LaTorre and Don LaTorre with a matching 27. The team of Kathy Porter, Charles Porter, Tommy McDonnell and Jana Samuels were alone in third place with a 4-under-par 28. Lance Lindeman captured the men’s long-drive contest, while Helen Pollock won the women’s contest. Scott Mitchell won the closest-to-the-pin challenge on hole three, while Beth Lindeman won for the women on the eighth hole. The men played their regular modified Stablefordsystem match Nov. 13. Art McMillian carded a plus-4 to win individual honors over Tim Friesen and Dennis Schavey, who carded matching plus-3s. McMillan and Schavey’s scores helped teammates Dale Hudson and Terry Tarras to a first-place team finish at plus-7. The club women held their semi-annual Doe Day

tournament Nov. 14. The team of Terry Westby, Tootie Wagner, Stephanie Morris and Jana Samuels combined on a score of 30.5 to take first place for the day. Second place went to Sally Martin, Judy Squier and Fran Barford with a 31, while Janet Razze, Carol Duncan, Brenda Solleveld and Laura Purcell were alone in third with a 31.5. Diane Miller won the long-drive contest. The men were back on the course Nov. 15 for their counterpart to Doe Day, a Stag Day tourney. Tim Friesen carded a 2-under-par 30 to earn medalist honors for low gross score. Larry Pippel was three strokes behind him to finish alone in second. Terry Tarras fired a 6-under-par 26 to win the lownet contest, one stroke ahead of second-place finisher Marty Hicks. The team of Gary Alvord, Peter Lund, Tom Nelson and Tarras combined on a 7-under-par 25 to win the team low-net competition. Friesen won the low-putts contest with only eight putts, one fewer than second-place finisher Mark Mixon. Jack Lowry won the long-drive contest from the blue tees, while Gary Silke won from the whites. The men played their regular Thursday morning scramble Nov. 16 to close out a busy week of competitive golf. The team of Dale Hudson, Tom McDonnell, Scott Mitchell and Dave Richardson combined on a 5-under-par 27 to earn clubhouse bragging rights for the day. Horseshoe news Two teams emerged from pool play and battled it out for the day’s bragging rights during horseshoe action at the Anna Maria City Hall horseshoe pits. The team of Gene Bobeldyk and Bob Lee earned a 21-12 victory over Rod Bussey and Bob Rowley to earn a trip to the winner’s circle. Two teams met in the finals during Nov. 18 action. Bob Palmer and Bob Lee won all three pool-play games by an impressive margin of 62-7 to meet Dom Livedoti and Jim Kleiner in the finals. Palmer and Lee stayed hot, rolling to a 22-0 victory over Livedoti and Kleiner to truly earn the day’s bragging rights. Play gets underway at 9 a.m. every Wednesday and Saturday at the Anna Maria City Hall pits. Warmups begin at 8:45 a.m. followed by random team selection. There is no charge to play and everyone is welcome.

The Brasseale family of Evansville, Indiana, shows off their fall mixed bag of hogfish, tripletail and kingfish, caught while on their Thanksgiving break on a fishing trip with Capt. Jason Stock.

Southernaire Fishing Charters

Anna Maria Island Tides

Date

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Nov 22 Nov 23 Nov 24 Nov 25 Nov 26 Nov 27 Nov 28 Nov 29

12:16a 12:55a 1:42a 2:41a 3:58a 5:34a 7:09a 8:30a

HIGH

2.4 2.3 2.1 1.9 1.8 1.6 1.6 1.6

3:34p 4:27p 5:19p 6:06p 6:46p 7:20p 7:52p 8:23p

HIGH

LOW

1.5 8:08a -0.2 6:40p 1.3 1.5 8:53a -0.1 7:37p 1.4 1.5 9:42a 0.0 8:59p 1.3 1.6 10:35a 0.1 10:38p 1.3 1.7 11:31a 0.2 — — 1.8 12:10a 1.1 12:24p 0.3 1.9 1:21a 0.8 1:15p 0.5 2.1 2:19a 0.5 2:00p 0.6

AM City Pier tides; Cortez high tides 7 minutes later — lows 1:06 later

Moon

1st

THE ISLANDER n Nov. 22, 2017 n 29

When northeast winds blow, choose the right spot to fish By Capt. Danny Stasny Islander Reporter The constant northeast winds blowing at 10-20 mph are excellent for someone who wants to fly a kite. Unfortunately, this is an article about fishing, not kite flying. But don’t be discouraged. The winds are out of the northeast, which usually means most of the bays, the Intracoastal Waterway and waters along the beaches can be fairly calm. In fact, the fishing is nothing short Stasny of excellent. You have some options, or let’s say variety, on what to target. Fishing the flats is producing some great snook action, as well as spotted seatrout and a few redfish. Flounder and pompano are being taken on the flats and in the local bays. If you’re on the hunt for larger fish, venture out along the beaches to find kingfish, cobia and shark. You also may encounter bonito, Spanish mackerel and triple tail on your search. On my recent Southernaire excursions, I’ve been taking advantage of the vast quantities of snook settling onto the flats. The fish know that winter is just around the corner, which means they are aggressive in eating just about every bait that passes in front of their noses. Most catches are 20-26 inches, although keeper fish are being caught by some lucky anglers. Also while on the flats, I’m seeing a variety of other species being reeled in by my clients, including spotted seatrout, flounder and pompano. Jim Malfese at the Rod & Reel Pier is seeing numerous black drum, sheepshead and flounder being caught at Anna Maria Island’s northernmost pier. Fishers using live shrimp on a bottom rig are finding success. There are redfish and snook being caught, although not with the frequency of the black drum, sheepies and flounder. Finally, anglers using artificials — jigs or spoons — are hooking into ladyfish and Spanish mackerel. Capt. Aaron Lowman was bay fishing on windy

Brian Tayerle, visiting Anna Maria Island from Mantua, Ohio, shows off his Nov. 13 catch, a nice kingfish hooked on a live threadfin herring while fishing with Capt. David White of Anna Maria Charters.

days. He reports spotted seatrout are plentiful, with catches up to 20 inches. Mixed in are bluefish, ladyfish and jack crevalle. Snook are a good bet for bay fishers. Most catches are under-slot, but some anglers are reeling in a keeper fish now and again. Fishing nearshore structure is proving to be good for a variety of fish, including hogfish, gag grouper and mangrove snapper. Capt. Rick Gross of Fishy Business is having a great week on the water. Despite the wind, Gross is catching a variety of species. On the flats, snook, spot-

Free fishing day follows Thanksgiving

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission announced a “free fishing day” for the Saturday following Thanksgiving. The holiday on the water is a tradition following the holiday at the dinner table. The state’s license-free saltwater days are the first Saturday and Sunday in June, first Saturday in September and Saturday following Thanksgiving. The state’s license-free freshwater days are the first Saturday and Sunday in April and the second Saturday and Sunday in June. For more information, go online to myfwc.com.

You can read it all online at www.islander.org

Glenn Wattley of Marstons Mills, Massachusetts, shows off his 21-inch flounder, caught Nov. 16 on a fishing trip with Capt. Danny Stasny of Southernaire Fishing Charters.

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ted seatrout and bluefish are being caught in abundance by Gross’ clients. Also making an appearance on the flats are pompano. Moving into the Gulf of Mexico is producing good action on macks and kingfish. All species are being taken by using live shiners as bait — except for the pompano. Gross is using Doc’s goofy jigs and other small jigs to produce this bite. Capt. Warren Girle reports he’s running charters nearshore for kingfish and macks. Both species are being taken via live shiners as bait. For either species, anchoring and chumming is proving effective, although slow-trolling baits, especially for the kingfish, is a good option. While targeting these fish, Girle is encountering bonito and shark and, moving to the flats of Sarasota Bay, he’s putting clients on numerous spotted seatrout, snook and large bluefish. Capt. Jason Stock is working both offshore and nearshore for a variety of fish. Fishing around structure is resulting in kingfish and cobia. Both are being caught on threadfin herring and pinfish. Artificials such as surface poppers are triggering these fish to bite. Stock is putting clients on tripletail in the offshore waters where casting live shrimp or shiners to will do the trick. Moving inshore into Tampa Bay, Stock is finding a good bite on gag grouper. Capt. David White of Anna Maria Charters is fishing along the beaches of Anna Maria Island for migratory species, including Spanish mackerel, kingfish and bonito. For the macks and kings, large live shiners as bait are a “no-brainer.” Free-lining or slow-trolling the bait is producing action. As for the bonito, White is having his fly-fishing clients cast streamer flies to these football-shaped fish. Moving inshore, snook and trout are rounding out the flats bite. Again, free-lined medium shiners are the ticket to success. Send high-resolution photos and fishing reports to fish@islander.org.

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BY SANDY AMBROGI

Marking anniversaries, noting expansions

Five years of coffee and treats Thank goodness for coffee. Thank goodness for Bev Lesnick. five years ago, she imagined island coffee Haus, 5350 gulf drive, Holmes Beach, put mind to matter and opened the casual island favorite. You will find people and their computers buzzing and friends visiting, pastries and yummies and plenty of hot and cold beverages daily from 7 a.m. until late afternoon. Lesnick opened a second Island Coffee Haus last year at 317 pine ave., anna maria. Happy anniversary!

TH A N K S G I V I N G HAPPY

May you celebrate Thanksgiving with family and friends and have Love in your home, Joy in your world and Peace in your heart.

Wicked island eatery opens second location a.m.-10 p.m. Sunday-thursday and until midnight it’s the Bradenton Beach home of made-from- friday and Saturday. scratch tex-mex and house-blended margaritas. and it’s heading south to the border — Sarasota county Island Coffee — for a second location. Haus, 5350 The Wicked Cantina, 101 Seventh St. N., BradenGulf Drive, ton Beach, draws locals and visitors alike for breakfast, Holmes lunch and dinner to the little cafe and outdoor dining Beach, shares patio across from the beach. cake with Now owners Michael and Janice Dolan are taking its latte and the concept to Sarasota at 1603 n. tamiami trail. Americanos Like the original Wicked, the new location will to celebrate feature meals priced $5-$15 and happy hour noon-6 its fifth annip.m. monday-Saturday and all day Sundays — includversary Nov. ing $5 house margaritas. 17. Islander the dolans saw a need and acted. Photo: Karen Jake Baker, Wicked Cantina general manager, Riley-Love said, “combined with an affordable price point and a location near the Van Wezel (Performing Arts Hall), downtown Sarasota and St. armands circle, we feel we will be a welcome addition to the restaurant offerings in Sarasota.” Never fear islanders. The original Wicked Cantina Jesse Brisson’s island real estate will stay just the same. the island location is open sales report is on vacation. 7:30 a.m.-10 p.m. the Sarasota location will open 7:30

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THE ISLANDER n Nov. 22, 2017 n 31

BizCal

Ringing in the holiday chamber bells

the anna maria island chamber of commerce will finish November with a ribbon-cutting at 5:30 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 29, at Your Personal Touch apparel & accessories and Seaside Laundromat & more. the businesses share space in the island Shopping center, 5400 marina drive, Holmes Beach, but donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t get lost on your way, the laundromat faces Holmes Boulevard. Snacks and refreshments will be served. december gets underway with the ami chamberâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s annual Holmes Beach holiday open house and tree lighting friday, dec. 1. festivities begin at 5 p.m. in downtown Holmes Beach with Santa and his sleigh and the crosspointe fellowship Holiday carolers bringing cheer to the evening. The tree lighting will take place at 6 p.m. at the chamber office, 5313 Gulf Drive. many Holmes Beach stores will remain open until at least 8 p.m., offering holiday eats and treats, libations, live music and shopping specials â&#x20AC;&#x201D; a festive way to start the holidays. the monthly chamber business luncheon will be at 11:30 a.m. Wednesday, Dec. 6, at the Bridge Tender inn, 135 Bridge St., Bradenton Beach. cost is $15 for members and $25 for non-members. Mark your calendars for the early-riser breakfast at 7:45 a.m. Wednesday, Dec. 13, at Harryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Continental Kitchens, 5600 gulf of mexico drive, Longboat Key. the cost is $8 for members and $16 for non-members.

the monthly ami business card exchange also will be Wednesday, Dec. 13, as members and guests gather at 5 p.m. at the farm House inn at mixon fruit farms, 2525 27th St. e., Bradenton, for holiday fare. there will be a ribbon-cutting at 5:30 p.m. for mixonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s newest business, u-pin-it. cost for the mixer is $5 for members and $10 for non-members. for more information, go to annamariaislandchamber.org, call 941-778-1541 or visit the chamber office at 5313 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. the Longboat Key chamber of commerce will introduce the new town manager and department director for Longboat Key and say farewell to retiring employees Dave Bullock, town manager, and Juan Florensa, director of public works, at an Issues and Eggs breakfast at 8 a.m. Wednesday, Nov. 22. the event will be at cedars cafe, 645 cedars court, Longboat Key. reservations are requested. cost is $10 per person. The monthly LBK chamber Networking@Noon is 11:30 a.m. tuesday, dec. 5, at the terrace at the Surf Shack, 328 John Ringling Blvd., St. Armands. Members pay $25 in advance, chamber walk-in members pay $30 and non-members pay $35. registration is at the chamber website. for more information, call the LBK chamber at 941-383-2466, visit the website at longboatkeychamber.com or the office at 5390 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key. A past yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s tree lighting at the Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce included a choral group. Islander File Photo

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islanderClassiFieds ITEMS FOR SALE

BOATS & BOATING

BRADENTON BLUES TICKETS: Two pair VIP tickets for sale at face value. $100 each. 434996-5235.

BIMINI BAY SAILING: Small sailboat rentals and instruction. Day. Week. Month. Sunfish, Laser, Windrider 17 and Precision 15. Call Brian at 941685-1400.

QUEEN MATTRESS, AS new, double recliner, nearly new. $100 each. 941-778-5542. COMPUTER: DELL DUAL core, refurbished, $50. 941-756-6728. ANTIQUE PARTNER DESK: All wood, $1,000. See at The Islander office, 3218 E. Bay Drive, Holmes Beach. FOUR OAK OFFICE chairs: Antiques, perfect for eclectic dining set. The Islander newspaper, 3218 E. Bay Drive, Holmes Beach.

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, fax toll-free 1-866-3629821. (limited time offer)

ANNOUNCEMENTS WANTED: WORKOUT DVDs and retired but working XBox, Wii units with games for Ministry of Presence for kids and teens in Haiti. Deliver to The Islander, 3218 E. Bay Drive, Holmes Beach. WANTED: YOUR OLD cell phone for recycling. Deliver to The Islander, 3218 E. Bay Drive, Holmes Beach. AERIAL PHOTOS of Anna Maria Island. View and purchase online: www.jackelka.com.

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AdoptA-Pet

GARAGE SALES ROSER THRIFT SHOP: Open 9:30 a.m.-2p.m. Tuesday and Thursday, 10 a.m.-1p.m. Saturday. Donations preferred 9 a.m.-11 a.m. Wednesdays. 511 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. 941-779-2733. rollo is a happy boy! He’s a 3-year-old mixed breed. He has all his shots and he’s in great health. available to adopt: www.moonraceranimalrescue.com or email moonraceranimalrescue@gmail.com Call Lisa Williams at 941-345-2441 or visit the islander next to Walgreens in Holmes beach for more …