The Islander Newspaper E-Edition: Wednesday, Jan. 10, 2024 by The Anna Maria Islander Newspaper

JAN. 10, 2024 free

VOLUME 32, NO. 12

the Best news on anna maria island since 1992

islander.org

Islander of the year: Rep. Robinson

astheworldterns 6 BB rejects dockside vacation rental. 3

Q&A 011024 3

Will Robinson Jr. of Bradenton won’t be remembered for whatever good he might have done, but rather for his attack on Anna Maria Island and the rights of three cities to determine their destiny. The state rep questioned the number of governments needed on the island at a January 2023 legislative delegation meeting, and proposed a state study on robinson the island’s governing structure for consideration at the 2024 Legislative Session. The all-Republican delegation unanimously approved the motion. But Robinson’s gambit produced an uproar among island political leaders and residents and also caused the cities to invest time in answering the study probe. All the while, Robinson refused to compromise and failed to answer calls from The Islander and others to discuss the matter. The study, which will not be made public and may not conclude until summer, likely won’t play out in this early 2024 session. But Robinson already has failed to serve his constituents, the voters of AMI. For that, he stands out above the people who aimed to improve lives on the island.

am candidate forum ahead. 4

Meetings 4 mlK holiday closings. 4 Wmfr faces rental inspection challenges. 5

RoadWatch 5 Opinions 6

10-20 YEARS AGO

looking back. 7

islanders of the Year: a remembrance. 8

save the date. 10-11

Happenings community announcements, activities. 10-12 new year, new adventures at ame. 13

Gathering. 14 Obituaries 15 Football winner 16 Streetlife 18

Splashing into ’24 aBoVe: Participants in the shamrock shiver charity Plunge Jan. 1 storm into the gulf of mexico at cortez Beach in Bradenton Beach. the annual new Year’s day event put on by clancy’s irish sports Pub and grill, 6218 cortez road W., Bradenton, raised $36,051 for feeding empty little tummies, Healthy teens coalition and take stock in children. the event has raised more than $400,000 since its inception in 2009. islander Photos: robert anderson

— Bonner Joy

rigHt: marty gray ushers in 2024 on the bagpipes during the shamrock shiver charity Plunge, held Jan. 1 at cortez Beach in Bradenton Beach. gray plays with the lion rampant Pipe and drum group of sarasota. see more, page 12.

tops in sports. 20 angling for clean waters. 21 BB continues tree city campaign. 22 nYt crossword. 22

due for an update. 23

CLASSIFIEDS. 24-25

Isl Biz: 26-27

trolley grants ahead. ENDLESS SEASON

tourist tax falls. 27

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

BB seeks to ﬁll empty seat at dais By robert anderson islander reporter

Bradenton Beach is eyeing an empty chair at the dais. The commission seat was left vacant by Jake Spooner, who resigned in December 2023 less than two months after his reelection. He was unopposed in the November city election. Spooner quit his Ward 1 seat Dec. 28. During a Jan. 4 meetspooner ing, Mayor John Chappie said the city will accept applications for the seat but, as of Jan. 5, the city had no deadline for applicants. “There is a process that our charter dictates that we go through,” Chappie said. “This is something that we need to discuss and advertise, that we are accepting applica-

tions.” According to the charter, when a seat is vacated, the commission nominates candidates and then votes to appoint a successor to fill the remainder of the open term. Spooner’s term ends in November 2025. if the commission is unable to fill the vacancy after two meetings, a successor is chosen by lot, drawn by the city clerk from the pool of nominees. Spooner, who had served on the commission since 2015, cited changes to state financial disclosure rules as the reason for his departure. With the new year, state law changed regarding financial disclosure, requiring that municipal officials file a Form 6 financial disclosure statement, the same as state and county officials. The new law is intended to add transparency to offices that make spending decisions

turn to bb empty seat, Page 2

BACVB conﬁdent in new ferry launch date By ryan Paice islander reporter

Despite repeated delays, Manatee County’s Gulf island Ferry program might finally be set to launch. “It’s safe. It’s ready. If the weather’s good, we’re launching Jan. 12,” Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau executive director Elliott Falcione told The Islander Jan. 5 about the ferry service. The Gulf Islands Ferry service is managed by the BACVB and operated by Clearwater-based Gulf Coast Water Taxi. It will involve the use of two 50-foot catamarans, each able to carry 49 passengers, which will loop from the Riverwalk day dock in downtown Bradenton to locations on the island 10 a.m.-9 p.m. FridaySunday. One-way adult fares will be $6. The service was scheduled to launch dec. 8, 2023, but, lacking certification from turn to ferry, Page 2

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ferry continued from page 1

The Miss Anna Maria launches Nov. 20, 2023, from the Riverwalk Day Dock in downtown Bradenton on its inaugural voyage for public officials and media to Anna Maria Island. The 50-foot catamaran is part of Manatee County’s Gulf Islands Ferry program. Islander File Photo: Ryan Paice bb empty seat continued from page 1

with taxpayer funds. On the form, administered by the Florida Commission on Ethics, officials must include net worth, dollar amounts of bank accounts and retirement plans. Spooner owns the Bridge Street Bazaar and Fish Hole Miniature Golf and the property that houses the Daiquiri Deck in Bradenton Beach. Some of the other properties Spooner owns in the Bridge Street area were combined with those of developer Shawn Kaleta to form the Bridge Street Resort project, which was approved last month by the city. Included are 108 Third St. S., a parking lot behind the Daiquiri Deck; 110 Third St. S., a multifamily home; 112 Third St. S., parking for the Fudge Factory; and 117 Bridge St., occupied by the Fudge Factory — all registered to Bridge Street Bazaar Inc., which is owned by Spooner.

Spooner also purchased a 1.83-acre two-lot commercial property that was formerly a Wells Fargo bank at 5325 Gulf Drive and 5327 Gulf Drive in Holmes Beach July 10, 2023, for $4,750,000, according to real estate company Michael Saunders & Co. “I am sad that we are losing Jake,” Chappie said Jan. 4. “He was a great commissioner to serve with. He has been one of the city’s great commissioners.” The Islander reacher out to Spooner by text Jan. 6 but, as of Islander press time, there was no reply. Chappie also touched on the impact of the new Form 6 law, which has prompted resignations elsewhere in the state. “I see both sides of it,” the mayor said. “Transparency is key, but privacy rights are important as well. As a county commissioner for eight years, I did the Form 6 and I understand the position of a businessmen and the need for privacy in the face of competition.”

the U.S. Coast Guard, its launch date was delayed to January. Falcione said they had since received certification and had been completing sea trials with the USCG for about two weeks. However, the ferry launch will look a little different from initial expectations. The service will launch without a stop at the Historic Bridge Street Pier in Bradenton Beach, where Falcione said improvements to gain compliance with the U.S. Americans with Disabilities Act were still underway as of Jan. 5. He added that he hopes that work will be finished shortly, so the stop can be added as originally proposed. At launch, the lone island stop for the ferry will be the Anna Maria City Pier in Anna Maria, but things also will look different than planned there. The county initially proposed the installation of two pilings along the pier’s dock that were supposed to allow the ferries to moor there, but Falcione said they please, see ferry, next Page

In a related discussion at the Jan. 4 meeting, Chappie said the Manatee County Supervisor of Elections notified the city that a review of ward boundaries and ward voting population is needed. City attorney Ricinda Perry said the ward review will need to precede Spooner’s replacement. To qualify for the commission, an applicant must be a registered voter who permanently resided in Bradenton Beach for 12 calendar months before the date of qualifying. The candidate also must reside in Ward 1, which could change boundaries based on the voter review. People interested in serving as commissioner can apply at city hall. City commissioners receive $400 a month. The commission is expected to begin its candidate search and ward review at 6 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 1, at city hall, 107 Gulf Drive N.

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Jan. 10, 2024 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 3 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Bradenton Beach rejects dockside vacation rental boat request. City Attorney Ricinda Perry said she had contacted Gilbert, who said he had determined city code did not allow for a commercial rental from a residential dock. Perry said that Gilbert had at least twice rejected Winsper’s request and advised him that zoning codes did not allow the type of rental he sought. She said she agreed with Gilbert’s determination for the property, which is zoned Residential-1 singlefamily. “The zoning does not accommodate a liveaboard, especially a liveaboard that is commercial in nature,”

By Robert Anderson Islander Reporter

Bradenton Beach commissioners Jan. 4 snubbed a request to operate a houseboat as a short-term vacation rental at 2399 Ave. A on the bayfront end of 23rd Street North. Commissioners did not vote on the issue, but found previous determinations by the city’s building official based on city zoning laws prohibit such a use. The applicant, Greg Winsper, owns the property under Green Slip Realty LLC. He was proposing docking a houseboat to rent on a weekly or weekend basis, according to a Nov. 21, 2023, application to the city. Commissioners, after consideration, declined the request based on previous findings by Steve Gilbert, the city’s building official until his retirement in December 2023. “This is quite a bit different from anything we’ve ever done before,” Mayor John Chappie said of the

Q&A 011024

By Lisa Neff

The Islander poll

ferry continued from page 2

Last week’s question

found it would not be necessary — at least at first. “It may even be long-term, we don’t know yet,” Falcione said. “But we know it’s safe. It’s ready.” Nevertheless, he added that adjustments might follow launch. “When you start anything new, you put in your infrastructure, you get the training done, and as you go through the operation, you learn from it,” Falcione said. “So as we learn, if we need to continue to enhance certain areas of the operation, then we’ll work with the cities to do that.” For now, Falcione is just excited to get going. “It’s time to get this operation going,” Falcione said. “It’s time to show the county and tourist development council that we’re at the finish line.” People can learn more about the service from the BACVB by calling 941-729-9177 or going online to bradentongulfisland.com/gulf-islands-ferry. There is no phone listing for the ferry service.

In 2024, I wouldn’t be surprised if …

7%. The county abandoned the HB parking garage project. 17%. The state further eroded municipal home rule. 5%. The ferry service got delayed until spring. 11%. The island’s residential population declined. 55%. All of the above. 5%. None of the above.

This week’s question

The legislative session opened Jan. 9. What’s the top area of concern?

Greg Winsper tells Bradenton Beach commissioners at their Jan. 4 meeting about his proposal to rent a houseboat from a dock at property he owns. Islander Photo: Robert Anderson

10 %

OFF tours & rentals

For

Perry added. “It is all prohibited as it stands right now in the zoning because this is a dock that is attached to upland residential property. It is prohibited under city codes.” Winsper could challenge the building official’s determination in an appeal to a special master, according to Perry. If Bradenton Beach commissioners had greenlighted a short-term live-aboard boat rental for residential docks, they would have set a precedent. Winsper, who attended the meeting, asked the commission whether he could anchor in Sarasota Bay and rent his houseboat. “If you were out in the water, we really don’t have any say out there,” Chappie said.

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A. Home rule. B. Environment. C. Insurance. D. Education. E. Other. To answer the poll, go online to islander.org.

Page 4 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Jan. 10, 2024 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Meetings

Anna Maria plans commissioner forum

A public forum to introduce two Anna Maria City Commission applicants is just around the corner. Gary McMullen and Kathleen Morgan-Johnson will make their cases for appointments to the commission during the forum, which will begin at 6 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 11, at city hall, 10005 Gulf Drive. The seats were vacated last year by Robert Kingan and Deanie Sebring. Kingan’s is a full two-year term and Sebring’s term expires in December. Their potential successors, McMullen and Morgan-Johnson, will introduce themselves and then mcmullen answer questions previously submitted by the public, as well as questions posed during the forum. The existing commission — which consists of three members — is scheduled to vote on the new members at 6 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 25, at morgancity hall. Johnson The person who receives the most votes will be allowed to choose between the one- or two-year term, leaving the other term to the applicant with the second-most votes. Mayor Dan Murphy has said commissioners are not required to appoint applicants if they do not find ‘Double Dancer’ performs roadside them suitable to serve on the commission. — ryan Paice

MLK holiday closes ofﬁces

most government offices, including island city halls, will be closed Monday, Jan. 15, for Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Manatee County Area Transit will operate normal routes, including the island trolley. The holiday will not close operations at public parks or disrupt trash collections.

“double dancer,” a sculpture created by utahbased artist lyman Whitaker, catches the wind Jan. 3. the sculpture is near the northbound trolley stop at the island library, 5701 marina drive, Holmes Beach. the $8,145 wind sculpture was partly funded with $6,000 from the anna maria island garden club, while the city’s parks and beautification committee covered the remainder. the city and club plan to host a dedication ceremony after landscaping and a plaque are installed. islander Photo: ryan Paice

By lisa neff

ANNA MARIA CITY

Jan. 11, 6 p.m., commission meeting. Jan. 11, 6 p.m., candidate forum. Jan. 25, 6 p.m., commission meeting. Jan. 25, 6 p.m., applicant selection. Anna Maria City Hall, 10005 Gulf Drive, 941-708-6130, cityofannamaria.com. BRADENTON BEACH Jan. 17, 1 p.m., ScenicWAVES. Jan. 18, noon, commission. Bradenton Beach City Hall, 107 Gulf Drive N., 941-778-1005, cityofbradentonbeach.com. HOLMES BEACH Jan. 10, 9 a.m., clean water committee. Jan. 10, 5 p.m., planning. Jan. 23, 10 a.m., code compliance. Jan. 23, 5 p.m., commission. Holmes Beach City Hall, 5801 Marina Drive, 941-708-5800, holmesbeachﬂ.org. WEST MANATEE FIRE RESCUE Jan. 16, 6 p.m., commission. WMFR administration building, 701 63rd St. W., Bradenton, 941-761-1555, wmfr.org. MANATEE COUNTY Jan. 16, 9 a.m., commission. Jan. 23, 9 a.m., commission. County administration building, 1112 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton, 941-748-4501, mymanatee.org. ALSO OF INTEREST Jan. 15, Martin Luther King Jr. Day, is a federal holiday. Most government ofﬁces will be closed. Jan. 29, 9:30 a.m., Sarasota/Manatee MPO, Venice Community Center, 326 Nokomis Ave. S., Venice. March 19, Presidential Preference primary. Send notices to calendar@islander.org.

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Jan. 10, 2024 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 5 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

WMFR faces rental inspection challenges By ryan Paice islander reporter

A state-mandated vacation rental inspection program for fire districts is up and running in the West Manatee Fire Rescue District. But WMFR will need to pick up the pace to cover the registered transient public lodging establishments in the district. The district’s new program is required to enforce Florida Administrative Code 69A-43, which was last amended in 2001 and sets fire safety standards for TPLEs across the state. WmFr fire marshal rodney Kwiatkowski told the Islander Jan. 4 that the district is “late to the game,” since the code has been established for several years. But district staff have inspected 222 vacation rental properties for compliance three months into fiscal 2023-24, which began Oct. 1, 2023, he said. The district covers Anna Maria Island and west Bradenton — about 2,700 registered rental properties — many of which are located on the island. WMFR hired two inspectors and two staff members to annually inspect every TPLE for compliance with the Florida Fire Prevention Code. The district currently allows rental property owners to schedule inspections using its website, wmfr.org. the program is intended to improve fire safety in vacation rentals, where 73% of last year’s residential fires occurred. However, with three-quarters of the fiscal year to go, the program has some hurdles to clear. First and foremost is pace. With 222 rental inspections completed over the first three months of fiscal 2023-24, WmFr is on pace to complete 888 inspections by the end of the year — which would leave almost 2,000 registered TPLEs uninspected. Kwiatkowski said the district is monitoring the timeline, but he is not “too stressed” about it. He said he and district staff were talking with rental property owners and management agencies, some of which are preparing their properties for bulk inspection. Kwiatkowski said district staff has spent time with the compliance officer for Bradenton-based prime Vacations LLC, formerly AMI Locals, Anna Maria Island Accommodations and Anna Maria Vacation, which manages about 1,200 rental properties in the district. “I know that they’re working to get this big bulk of TPLEs compliant,” Kwiatkowski said. “I’d be worried if we weren’t talking to some of the big players … trying to get everything compliant.” With hopes that those “big players” start scheduling inspections, Kwiatkowski is optimistic the pro-

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gram’s pace will pick up. “I think that number is going to hopefully catch up to where we need to be at the halfway point,” he said. “We’re going to get there.” Another issue is identifying vacation rental properties in the district that have not registered with the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation. According to Kwiatkowski’s estimate, there may be almost 5,000 vacation rental properties in the district — about 2,000 of which are not registered. “So we’ve got a big number still that need to be registered,” Kwiatkowski said. The district contracted Colorado-based Granicus to provide software used to catalog every property within the district and track rental activity at unregistered TPLEs. Granicus spent much of the first three months of fiscal 2023-24 building a system using manatee county’s geographic information systems. After establishing the system, Granicus will start contacting property owners and management agencies about rental activity at unregistered properties. Kwiatkowski said Granicus would send an initial letter notifying owners and management agencies of unregistered TPLEs about how to comply with the DBPR and schedule inspections. If those owners and management agencies do not comply within 2-3 weeks of receiving that letter, Granicus will send more serious correspondence. “It’s not a joke,” Kwiatkowski said. “We’re not just trying to find some extra work to be done. these are things that have to be done, and we expect that we will get them done.” Kwiatkowski said there was another, even greater challenge for WMFR’s new program to overcome: maintaining compliance and customer happiness. He said some rental owners and management companies have been unhappy with improvements required in the state fire prevention code, such as the installing emergency lighting along a primary egress path. Regardless, Kwiatkowski said district staff may need to settle for disgruntled owners. “There are challenges but I just remind staff that we are the primary advocate for public and first responder safety, and this is just one of the ways that we advocate for that safety: by making sure these places are safe,” he said. Overall, however, Kwiatkowski said the program was “going better than anticipated.” “There was a lot of uncertainty about how it was going to roll out,” he said. “But things are good. I’m ready for an exciting year.” The WMFR district commissioners will meet next at 6 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 16, at district headquarters, 701 63rd St. W., Bradenton. The meeting is open to the public. Directions to attend via Zoom can be found on the district’s website.

Wmfr fire inspectors lisa Kiernan, left, and nick riffe, right, look over paper work Jan. 5 at district headquarters, 701 63rd st. W., Bradenton. islander Photo: courtesy Wmfr/rodney Kwiatkowski

ELECTION 2024 District 3 Dems organizing

Democratic Party District 3 precinct captains, which includes the island, will host a gathering at 6 p.m,. Thursday, Jan. 18, at the Central Library, 1301 Barcarrota Blvd. W., Bradenton. They’ll also introduce Diana Shoemaker, the party’s candidate in the general election for the District 3 seat held by Republican Kevin Van Ostenbridge, who’s led the county’s charge to build a parking garage at Manatee Public Beach in Holmes Beach. Van Ostenbridge also faces a primary challenger, Talha “Tal” Siddique. For more, call the party headquarters at 941-3014336. — lisa neff

RoadWatch

Eyes on the road

• City center in Holmes Beach: Manatee County’s work on a force main project on Holmes Boulevard, marina drive and side streets continues and traffic patterns can change. For the latest, go to amiprojects.io. • Gulf Drive in Bradenton Beach: Manatee County is working on sewer lines along Gulf Drive South. The week beginning Jan. 15, motorists can expect lane shifts on Gulf Drive and the closure of 10th Street South. For the latest, go to amiprojects. io. For area road watch information, go online to swﬂroads.com or dial 511. — lisa neff

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Page 6 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Jan. 10, 2024 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Opinion

Our

Looking out for wild, wild west

We looked around, up and down, looking for good deeds among our cities and the community to honor a person or organization as Islander of the Year. Sadly, very few good deeds stood out among us. Yes, mayor Judy titsworth put up a good fight against the county’s proposal to put a parking garage at the beach and the state’s plan to wipe out home rule and consolidate the three cities, but the battle isn’t over and there are other factors to consider. For one, the county forcemain and city center road projects nearly put asunder our “downtown” businesses and exacerbated traffic for more than a year. it also resulted in a pedestrian fatality. So maybe there is more room for negotiation. Could the city restore some parking and still maintain the safety and welfare for all? Would that appease the county commissioner who is driving hard to punish the city for removing parking in the first place? We have to face the facts here, that the Republican Party controls the county and state government. We have to try to win battles in spite of large odds and it will require creative compromise. When Holmes Beach passed a resolution to prohibit parking garages, the county enlisted the state to overrule the city. And the state went big, proposing a study to consolidate — read that “abolish” — the island cities. And, yes, they can do that. They wield the sword of power over our small municipal governments. The threat is real. And it’s partly because our state representatives have no fear of losing our votes. That threat is the loss of our cities. Once we’re part of unincorporated Manatee County, there will be no vacation rental rules or regulations on lengths of stay. We won’t have a local police force, code enforcement or a public works team. We won’t have a representative on county boards or the metropolitan planning organization. We’ll fall into limbo with Cortez, Duette, Oneco and Parrish, where county taxes are lower but county services are limited. It could resemble the wild, wild West. And how do you think this came about? I think we need to back up and look at campaign contributions. that’s where we’ll find the driver, or drivers — in the trail of money — and call them out. But if you thought the developer/big rental property Study ﬂaws I have been following with keen interest the owner on the island was the enemy, you overlooked “study” of consolidation of island governments and Will Robinson Jr. and his friends in government. I’m willing to they’re behind the call for no rules, services. I wonder: Will the state be surveying residents lower taxes and more vacation rentals. of the island? The people who pay for services? The — Bonner Joy, news@islander.org people who elect our local officials that oversee services? To the best of my knowledge, the state agency involved has not inventoried the consensus of Anna Maria Island residents or voters. Nor has it sought the JAN. 10, 2024 • Vol. 32, No. 12 opinion of Manatee County residents. ▼ Publisher, Co-editor How can any study that directly impacts these conBonner Joy, news@islander.org ▼ Editorial stituencies not take into consideration such important editor lisa neff, lisa@islander.org perspectives? robert anderson, robert@islander.org Such research would not be considered valid in Joe Bird, editorial cartoonist any scientific context. Kevin cassidy, kevin@islander.org Jack elka, jack@jackelka.com What is the motivation behind such a study? robyn murrell, robyn@islander.org And why not share the methods and results with ryan Paice, ryan@islander.org our community at-large? ▼ Contributors Karen riley-love This top-down, draconian method of governance Jacob merrifield is very concerning to this voter and will certainly be capt. danny stasny, fish@islander.org remembered come Election Day. ▼ Advertising Director toni lyon, toni@islander.org Shawn Mayers, Holmes Beach

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Website: islander.org Facebook: islandernewspaper X: @ami_islander Instagram: @theislanderami Pinterest: @islandernewspaper News alerts: Register at islander.org E-edition: Subscribe at islander.org If you are out and buying something for your pet and could pick up a Bar Bell Nyla Bone for a shelter dog it would be so appreciated. You can email reneefrgsn@gmail.com for more details. Renee Ferguson, Holmes Beach

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

Thank you to everyone who donated to the Manatee County Animal Welfare shelter in 2023. We were able to purchase and receive more than 100 bones. This was an amazing achievement. I wish I could say we hit our goal but I recently found out there are 160 dogs at the shelter. This is way more than I anticipated and they can adequately our theme, “We’re glad You’re Here,” originated in the 1980s with a restaurant trade group. We hope house. everyone feels welcome on ami. — the islander So more bones are needed.

Jan. 10, 2024 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 7 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Babe by the bridge the county library archives show the date for the photo as march 13, 1932. a child, clyde Priest, sits posed in front of the old longboat Pass Bridge from longboat Key. the bridge was built in the 1920s but damaged by a storm and then washed out by high tides in 1932.

Before the storm the archives of the manatee county Public library system say the photo shows “Joe guthrie’s large dock and building before the destruction of the Hurricane of 1921.” the dock in cortez was built between 1905 and 1915. islander Photos: manatee county Public library system

10&20 years ago

From the Jan. 7, 2004, issue

• an accusation of possible sunshine law violations made by former building official Bob Welch against Bradenton Beach city commissioners was determined to be “unfounded.” However, it was recommended that city officials undergo an educational program about Sunshine and public record laws. • developer david teitelbaum said he had a pending contract to purchase the 35-unit Tradewinds Resort in Bradenton Beach for $6 million. Teitelbaum said if the sale concluded, he would convert the units to condominiums. • Vandals caused $600 in damages to the anna maria island privateers’ float-boat on New Year’s Eve. the float was being stored along cortez road in Cortez but after the incident the Privateers began looking for an island parking spot.

From the Jan. 8, 2014, issue

• the islander named Gene aubry its islander of the Year for 2013, stating, “He is a career architect, musician, artist and he readily gives his talents for the good of others.” • anna maria city clerk alice Baird submitted a retirement letter to Mayor SueLynn. She was the city clerk during the recall election of Commissioner Harry Stoltzfus. • anna maria neighbors gathered on park Avenue to question the loss of a landmark banyan tree’s prop roots and size. The cutting took place at the Banyan Tree Estates. — lisa neff

Check The Islander archives 24/7 Some years ago, The Islander was invited to take part in a pilot project with the university of Florida

George a. smathers libraries. We donated the collection of newspapers beginning with the first edition in 1992. it took some time but it’s all maintained on the library site. look for the islander in the uofF Florida digital newspaper collection at ufdc.ufl.edu.

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We mail The Islander weekly for a nominal $54 per year. We also offer online e-edition subscriptions — a page-by-page view of the weekly news for only $36 per year, but you must sign up online. It’s the best way to stay in touch with what’s happening on Anna Maria Island. We bring you all the news about three city governments, community happenings, people features and special events … even real estate transactions … everything you need if your “heart is on Anna Maria Island.” If you don’t live here year-round, use this form to subscribe by snail mail for yourself or someone else. Sorry, we do not suspend mail subscriptions — you get The Islander free while you’re here!

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Foghat live at The Center Saturday, January 13 Get Tickets at: CenterAMI.org/events

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Page 8 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Jan. 10, 2024 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Islanders of the Year over the years: A remembrance

of Foreign Wars post and was commander three times during the 1950s. In 1956, Adams went to work for the Manatee county sheriff’s Office. “my job was to take care of the island,” he said. From 1962-78, Adams was chief of police in Holmes Beach.

By Bonner Joy islander Publisher

The Islander takes pride in recognizing members of the Anna Maria Island community for contributions and concern for making this slice of paradise an even better place to live. Since the newspaper started in 1992, The Islander has made its path by partnering with organizations and making their goals one and the same, by reporting the news of record and by telling the tales of people who live and work on AMI. If it’s not about the island or the people who live and flourish here, it’s not likely to be read here. By the end of the first and second years of publishing, we sought a way to say thank you to the people who worked for a better island. And, in 1993, we found a worthy champion and launched an Islander of the Year award. the first award was presented posthumously to Mayor Ernie Cagnina for the year 1993 and the next to Mayor Ray Simches for 1994. Both served as mayors in Anna Maria. Our third Islander of the Year, Katie Pierola, is still striving for a better way, better bridges — especially a low, bascule bridge replacement for the Cortez-Bradenton Beach link for island-mainland traffic. She now lives on the mainland, but a big slice of her heart is with us in the battles we face to maintain paradise. She was our pioneer for the long series of beach renourishment projects that began in 1992 — and hopefully continue into the future. Seldom do we recognize people whose job it is to

Willis Howard “snooks” adams won the honor of islander of the Year for 1996. He was a pioneer in law enforcement on ami and the founder of what became snooks adams Kids day.

former Bradenton Beach mayor Katie Pierola fought efforts in the 1990s to keep the state dot from building a megabridge to anna maria island. islander file Photos

charLes and Jo ann Lester, 1997: Charles Lester and Jo Ann Lester came from Wisconsin, fell in love with the island and, along with it, the Anna Maria Island Community Center, now the Center of Anna Maria Island. They put their money where their hearts are — here and in Wisconsin. For this, and for the foresight to establish an endowment fund for the center, for their altruistic, unselfish willingness to put themselves at the foreground of a major fundraising campaign for the center, we honored them as 1997 Islanders of the year.

Jim kronus, 1998: Jim Kronus, retiring in Januserve the community — but sometimes that job is done ary 1999 after 25 years as Anna Maria Island Elemenwith outstanding integrity and fortitude. tary principal, was named 1998 Islander of the Year. We look for those who give from the heart ... and Kronus, who died in 2023, also was honored with now, a look back at our Islanders of the Year: his name on the school auditorium. twenty-five years worth of admiring students, their parents, family and katie PieroLa, 1995: Katie Pierola had served former and current staff honored him at that event. six years as mayor of Bradenton Beach and her last term had just ended in 1995. She proved to be a bulldog suzi Fox, 1999: With little funding to support at grant-getting, enacting improvements and bringing Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch, Suzi Fox organized about positive change in office, and the city underwent a group of volunteers to protect sea turtles. a renaissance under her command. A few years earlier, Fox, who died in 2022, took she embodied the definition of a public servant over the state permit for protecting nesting sea turtles, in caring, tireless efforts to improve her city and the mostly loggerheads, and also their hatchlings. island. Beach renourishment brought funding and necespierola fought to achieve the first beach renour- sary monitoring of turtles to AMITW and Fox, who ishment program for the island and led the first round continued as the group’s executive director, overseeing of the battles to prevent a proposed megabridge to volunteers who track and monitor turtle activities on replace the Cortez Bridge — both in the late 1980s, the shore. early ’90s. nancy ambrose, 2000: Nancy Ambrose wiLLis howard “snooks” adams, 1996: brought a passion for butterflies and butterfly gardenSnooks Adams was born April 24, 1917, to settlers ing to Holmes Beach in a garden at city hall. of Cortez and spent much of his life on the island as a Ambrose was later shamed with an arrest and plea police chief who used common sense as his guide. agreement after she allegedly stole donations from the He was a friend to local children, having started in butterfly charity and the park. the park underwent 1954 an end-of-school party, celebrated now as Snooks a makeover in recent years as host to the Veterans Adams Kids Day. Memorial Marker. In 1952, Bradenton Beach incorporated and Adams became first assistant chief, then chief of police. caroLyne norwood, 2001: With so many He is credited with helping set up the first Veterans people moving to our area daily from everywhere on the planet, our history was at risk of being lost in an avalanche of new faces, homes, businesses, things to do and see. The keeper of the island’s history became CaroPlease, see Islander award, Page 9

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

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Jan. 10, 2024 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 9 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Her finest achievement was the realization of the Grassy Point Preserve, fronting on Anna Maria Sound in the 3600 block of East Bay Drive. Another achievement to her credit is the play pavilion at AME. Martini envisioned the sheltered area and donated the funding to make it a reality.

JeFF croLey, 2004: Jeff Croley of Holmes Beach symbolized all the good qualities we could ask for in a volunteer — and he symbolized for Anna Maria Island all the good folks who quietly went about doing anything and everything they could to aid those in need after Hurricanes Charley, Frances, Ivan and Jeanne. Croley, who worked a condo maintenance job on Longboat Key, took vacation days to drive with a cooler, cold drinks and a chain saw to the hurricane devastated areas in East Manatee, DeSoto and Charlotte counties, looking for folks who needed aid. He came upon the islander office early the first morning of his good Samaritan journey looking for a big cooler and some ice — and we were pleased to oblige. It was rewarding for us to know and help a truly selfless human being and proud islander.

iLona and JeFF kenrick, 2003: Ilona and Jeff Kenrick were Islanders of the year for 2003. The Holmes Beach couple led an anonymous foundation that gave international aid amounting to about $1 million a year. The foundation’s mission was to “make contributions for religious, educational, charitable and scientific purposes.” The Kenricks carried out the mission and created a local event that combined donations for a blood bank with a reward for blood donors, a cash payout to the blood donor’s choice of four island charities. It was a win-win for everyone — although it no longer is held — and we thank them for their positive anna maria isLand Privateers, 2005: impact. If there is a symbol for Anna Maria Island, it is the sword-wielding, cannon-firing, ship-riding krewe, the Anna Maria Island Privateers. They do good year after year, but 2005 stood out for the extra efforts on behalf of one unfortunate boy. It only took a phone call to bring the Privateers and their ship to greet a boy with a failing heart on a “wish” trip to the island. And it wasn’t just a greeting for little Tyler and his siblings and parents. They were treated to a tour aboard ship, escorted to dinner and made honorary Privateers. it was a selfless and remarkable gesture that symbolized hope for tyler and filled his heart with love for our island. The Privateers gave him many reasons to return — and hope. The Privateers also came to the rescue with Hurricane Katrina relief, collecting needed items and transporting them to Tampa. Next, the Privateers managed a memorial scholarBillie martini was named islander of the Year for ship fund for an island teen killed in a car crash. The 2002. she embodied what it means to be a civic leader, serving as an elected official, an activist and fund for Bridget Miller was a great addition to the

charles and Jo ann lester came from Wisconsin, fell in love with the island and, along with it, the anna maria island community center — now the center of anna maria island. islander file Photo: Bonner Joy Islander award continued from Page 8

lyne Norwood, who died in 2020. She set out on a quest to preserve our history and we think she was a champion at it, so much so that we selected her the Islander of the Year for 2001. The Anna Maria Island Historical Society, its museum and the preservation of the old jail and Belle Haven Cottage all are thanks to her vision.

biLLie martini, 2002: Billie Martini was just our cup of tea. she exemplified the charm and character of the island. Martini came to AMI in 1944, residing 16 years in Bradenton Beach before settling in Holmes Beach. she held various jobs, including post office clerk, bookkeeper for the water company and teacher’s aide at AME. She retired and rose to president of the grassroots effort that became Save Anna Maria Inc. She was elected to the Holmes Beach City Commission in 1993 for a two-year term, on the promise to be a voice for the people on the commission. a philanthropist. islander file Photo She sought recreational opportunities for residents, including a public swimming pool. Although that purIslander archive? Look online at suit did not see reality — there is now a skate park, ufdc.uﬂ.edu. children’s gym and other amenities at the site adjacent to city hall.

Please, see Islander award, Page 15

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Island happenings

Page 10 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Jan. 10, 2024 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Friends host lecture and travel series compiled by lisa neff, calendar@islander.org

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT ON AMI

The Friends of the Island Library launches its annual lecture and travel series Thursday, Jan. 11, hosting Cathy Salustri talking about “Backroads to Paradise.” Salustri traveled across the state to experience the places written about in tour books produced during the Great Depression-era by the Federal Writers Project of the Works Progress Administration.

Wednesday, Jan. 10 6:30 p.m. — Island Time Book Club, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341. Saturday, Jan. 13 Maria. 7 p.m. — Foghat concert, Center of Anna Maria Island, 407 March 10, Island Players’ “The Woman in Black” auditions, Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria. Fee applies. Information: 941-778-1908, Anna Maria. centerami.org. April 6, Center of Anna Maria Island/Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau Al Jardin concert, Anna Maria. ONGOING ON AMI May 2-12, Island Players’ “The Woman in Black,” Anna Jan. 12-28, 7:30 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday, 2 p.m. Sunday, Maria. Island Players’ “The Mousetrap,” 10009 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria. MARKETS & SALES Fee applies. Information: 941-778-5755. Through Jan. 13, 11 a.m.-1 p.m., Artists’ Guild of Anna Maria ON AMI Island’s monthly Paint the Town, demonstrations and other activities, Artists’ Guild Gallery, 5414 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Informa- Saturday, Jan. 13 10 a.m.-5 p.m. — Anna Maria Winter Art and Craft Show, city tion: 941-778-6694. fi eld, 5800 block of Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 231Through January, “Sky Wonders” by Karen Eddy, Artists’ Guild 350-8277. Gallery, 5414 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778Sunday, Jan. 14 6694. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. — Anna Maria Winter Art and Craft Show, city ONGOING OFF AMI field, 5800 block of Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 231Through January, “I Must Have Flowers” exhibit by Debbie 350-8277. Snow, Island Gallery and Studios, 456 Old Main St., Bradenton. Information: 941-778-6648. Through April 28, “Dali and the Impressionists,” the Dali Museum, 1 Dali Blvd., St. Petersburg. Fee applies. Information: 727-823-3767. Through June 23, “Mountains of the Mind: Scholars’ Rocks from China and Beyond” exhibit, the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, 5401 Bay Shore Road, Sarasota. Fee applies. Information: 941-360-7390, ringling.org. First Fridays, 6-9:30 p.m., Village of the Arts First Fridays Artwalk, 12th Street West and 12th Avenue West, Bradenton. Information: villageofthearts.com. Second and fourth Saturdays, 2-4 p.m., Music on the Porch jam session, presented by the Florida Maritime Museum and Cortez Cultural Center, 4415 119th St. W., Cortez. Information: floridamaritimemuseum.org. SAVE THE DATE

The program will begin at 2 p.m. at Roser Memorial Community Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. The series will continue Thursdays at 2 p.m. at the church through Feb. 22. For more information, go online to friendsoftheislandlibrary.org or call the Island Library at 941778-6341.

denton Beach. March 14-16, Friends of the Island Library Jewelry Sale, Holmes Beach.

KIDS & FAMILY ON AMI Friday, Jan. 12 10 a.m. — 40 Carrots parenting program, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341. Saturday, Jan. 13 10 a.m. — Origami club, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341. Tuesday, Jan. 16 10 a.m. — Family storytime, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341. ONGOING ON AMI

Select Thursdays, Shark Pups and Grownups preschool program, Mote Marine Science Education and Outreach Center on ONGOING ON AMI Anna Maria City Pier, Pine Avenue and Bay Boulevard, Anna Maria. Wednesdays, Fridays, Sundays, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Coquina Information: mote.org. Beach Market, Coquina Beach, Bradenton Beach. Information: ONGOING OFF AMI 941-840-0789, coquinabeachmarket.org. First Wednesdays, SOAR in 4 family night, the Bishop Museum, Select Fridays — Jan. 12, Feb. 9, March 8, April 12 — 5:307:30 p.m., Holmes Beach Night Market, Holmes Beach. Information: 201 10th St. W., Bradenton. Fee applies. Information: 941-746-4131, bishopscience.org. 941-778-6694. Third Fridays, Teen Nights, the Bishop Museum, 201 10th St. Tuesdays, 8:30 a.m.-2 p.m., Anna Maria Farmers Market, City W., Bradenton. Fee applies. Information: 941-746-4131, bishopPier Park, Pine Avenue and Bay Boulevard. Anna Maria. Information: science.org. 941-708-6130. Second Saturdays, Quest for Kids, the Bishop Museum, 201 Select dates, Artists’ Guild Gallery Paint the Town sidewalk demonstrations and sales events, 5414 Marina Drive, Holmes 10th St. W., Bradenton. Fee applies. Information: 941-746-4131, bishopscience.org. Beach. Information: 941-778-6694. ONGOING OFF AMI Saturdays through May 7, 9 a.m.-2 p.m., Bradenton Market, Old Main Street, Bradenton. Information: 941-301-8445.

Jan. 21, Island Players’ “Communicating Doors” auditions, SAVE THE DATE Anna Maria. Jan. 20-21, Coquina Beach Winter Arts and Crafts Market, Jan. 26, Center of Anna Maria Island/Bradenton Area ConvenBradenton Beach. tion and Visitors Bureau Croce Plays Croce concert, Anna Maria. Feb. 9-10, Feed the Peeps Arts and Crafts Market, Anna Feb. 23, Center of Anna Maria Island/Bradenton Area ConvenMaria. tion and Visitors Bureau Guess Who Alumni concert, Anna Maria. March 2-3, The Invitational, Holmes Beach. March 7-24, Island Players’ “Communicating Doors,” Anna March 8-9, Feed the Peeps Arts and Crafts Market, Anna Maria. April 6-7, Coquina Beach Spring Arts and Crafts Market, Bra-

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Island happenings

Jan. 10, 2024 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 11 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Businesses host Holmes Beach Night Market

Visual ‘Villa 1’ “Villa 1” by anne abgott, a member of the artists’ guild gallery in Holmes Beach and also a past president of the artists’ guild of anna maria island. abgott, who lives in the cortez area, said her painting is one of 122 works that will be shown feb. 16-april 12 in the 14th Biennial national art exhibition in Punta gorda. the exhibit will be at the Visual arts center, 210 maud st. “i started painting, taking classes in the back of island gallery West over 20 years ago,” abgott said. for more about abgott, go online to anneabgott.com. islander courtesy Photo

Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-7786341. ONGOING ON AMI Most Saturdays, 8:30 a.m., Kiwanis Club of Anna Maria Island meeting, Bradenton Beach City Hall, 107 Gulf Drive N., Bradenton Beach. Information: 941-778-1383. Most Tuesdays, noon, Rotary Club of Anna Maria Island meeting, Bridge Street Bistro, 111 Gulf Drive S., Bradenton Beach. Information: 941-718-5583. ONGOING OFF AMI Through Jan. 21, Manatee County Fair, 1402 14th Ave. W., Palmetto. Fee applies. Information: manateecountyfair.com, 941722-1639. Third Thursdays, 6:30 p.m., through April, Manatee Audubon Society meetings, First United Methodist Church of Palmetto, 330 11th Ave. W., Palmetto. Information: manateeaudubon@gmail.com, 941-729-2222. SAVE THE DATE

Center brings Foghat to stage

The center, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria, will host the rock band Foghat in concert Saturday, Jan. 13. the band for more than five decades has produced a mix of blues, boogie and rock, including the classic rock tune “Slow Ride.” Other concerts in the 2023-24 season presented by the Manatee County Tourist Development Council and the Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau include: • a.J. croce performing his father Jim croce’s music Jan. 26. • the Guess Who alumni performing Feb. 23. • and Beach Boys founding member al Jardine performing April 6. Doors open at 6 p.m. for all shows with an opening act at 7 p.m. and headliners at 8 p.m. For more about tickets, go online to centerami. Crafts show set for city ﬁeld org. Blue Ribbon Events will bring an arts and crafts For more about the center, call the center at 941show to Holmes Beach’s city field Jan. 13-14. 778-1908. Hours for the weekend event will be 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Bridge club to resume play city field is north of city hall in the 5800 block of arrange the chairs and shuffle the decks. Marina Drive. The bridge club that gathers at Roser MemoThe event will showcase vendors selling paintings, rial Community Church is playing 12:30-3 p.m. sculptures, jewelry, glasswork, pottery, mixed-media, Fridays during the winter-spring season. yard art and more. The church is at 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. The event organizers will be collecting nonperFor more information, call Kathleen Geistishable donations for the Roser Food Pantry in Anna Eskew at 314-324-5921. Maria. Also, Blue Ribbon will donate $500 to the pantry. For more information, call Blue Ribbon at 231- Submit social news to news@islander.org. Please, include 350-8277. time, date and location for events, as well as a contact name Businesses in the city center area will hold a Holmes Beach Night Market Friday, Jan. 12. Hours will be 5-7:30 p.m. — and later at some locations. Businesses will offer refreshments, entertainment and demonstrations and some will offer extended hours. Other dates include Feb. 9, March 8 and April 12. One of the organizers is the Artists’ Guild of Anna Maria Island, which will host an open house that night at the Artists’ Guild Gallery in the Island Shopping Center, 5414 Marina Drive, and present its “Paint the Town” series of demonstrations and sales events. For more information, call the gallery at 941-7786694.

SPORTS & GAMES ONGOING ON AMI

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Most Wednesdays, 1 p.m., mahjong club beginners, Island NATURE Jan. 24, Feb. 21, March 22, Annie Silver Community Center Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778ONGOING OFF AMI 6341. community suppers, Bradenton Beach. Most Fridays, 11:30 a.m., mahjong club experienced players, Saturdays, 9 a.m., Mornings at the NEST, Robinson Preserve, LESSONS & Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941- 10299 Ninth Ave. NW, Bradenton. Information: 941-742-5923, LEARNING 778-6341. mymanatee.org. Fridays through season, 12:30 p.m., bridge club, Roser MemoONGOING OFF AMI CALENDAR NOTES rial Community Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Information: Thursdays, through Feb. 22, 2 p.m., Friends of the Island 314-324-5921. KEEP THE DATES Library Lecture and Travel Series, Roser Memorial Community Mondays, 10 a.m., morning yoga, Island Library, 5701 Marina Jan. 15, Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Information: 941-778-6341. Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341. Feb. 2, Groundhog Day. ONGOING OFF AMI SAVE THE DATE Feb. 13, Mardi Gras. Feb. 14, Valentine’s Day. Mondays, 1 p.m., Longboat Key Paradise Center for Healthy Jan. 18-March 28, Thursdays, Annie Silver Community Center Living Thinking Out Loud discussions, 546 Bay Isles Road, Longboat bingo, Bradenton Beach. Key. Information: 941-383-6493. Feb. 24, 2024, Pittsburgh Pirates spring training opens, Bra-

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Island happenings

Page 12 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Jan. 10, 2024 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

‘The Mousetrap’ opening

The Island Players’ presentation of Agatha Christie’s “The Mousetrap” will open Thursday, Jan. 11, and continue through Sunday, Jan. 28. Heiko Knipfelberg is directing the island production, with a cast that includes Knipfelberg, Sylvia Marnie, Kristin Mazzitelli, Colin Brady, Dan Coppinger, Eric Johnson, Hugh Scanlon and Catherine Penta. Performances will be 7:30 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday and 2 p.m. Sunday. The theater, 10009 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria, is dark Monday. the box office, 10009 Gulf drive, anna maria, is open 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Monday-Saturday and an hour before showtime, as well as online at theislandplayers. org. For more information, call the box office at 941778-5755.

members of the island-based “sand circus,” resplendent in their inflatable animal costumes, take in the new year from the chilly waters of the gulf during the shamrock shiver charity event Jan. 1. the “sand circus” marked its 10th year of participation. islander Photos: robert anderson

Off Stage Ladies to lunch

The Off Stage Ladies, an auxiliary of the Island Players, will meet for lunch at 11:45 a.m. Wednesday, Jan. 10, at the Feast Restaurant, 5406 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. The group meets the second Wednesday of the month through May. The cost to join the group is $25. People interested in joining Off Stage Ladies can contact Roe Duncan at 941-932-2798.

the minions, complete with a gru and lucy Wilde, aKa the ryan family pose for a photo before taking the new Year’s day shamrock shiver plunge at cortez Beach in Bradenton Beach between fourth street south and 12th street south.

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Assistance sought on AMI

• the anna maria island art league seeks volunteers for Springfest Fine Arts Festival March 16-17 in Holmes Beach. Info: 419-450-4824. • the island players, 10009 Gulf drive, anna Maria, seeks volunteers for the 75th season of shows. Info: theislandplayers.org, 941-941 778-5755. • the Friends of the island library welcomes members to support the Holmes Beach branch, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Info: 941-778-6341, friendsoftheislandlibrary.org. • Wildlife inc. rescue and rehabilitation in Bradenton Beach seeks help tending to injured animals. Info: 941-778-6342. • roser Food Bank seeks donations. roser memorial Community Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, administers the pantry. Info: 941-778-0414.

Pirate plungers anne Bruno, catherine Bruno, elaine Buck, deb Hepler, debbie griffin and Jen chauby emerge from the gulf of mexico all smiles on new Year’s day for the clancy’s shamrock shiver charity Plunge in Bradenton Beach.

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danny moore, who emceed the shamrock shiver, shudders Jan. 1 in the brisk 67-degree waters of the gulf of mexico at cortez Beach during the charity plunge.

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Jessica ryherd, Kim Bailey and lori Pick of feeding little tummies are on hand Jan. 1 at the shamrock shiver charity Plunge to promote the nonprofit to new Year’s day plungers.

Jan. 10, 2024 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 13 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

AME Calendar

By robyn murrell

New year, new adventures

Winter break is over and classes are back in session at Anna Maria Elementary. Students were returning to campus Jan. 9 to start the third quarter of the 2023-24 school year. And principal Mike Masiello and Anna Maria Island Parent-Teacher Organization president Jen Serra have lists of activities planned. First up is a PTO Family Social-Movie Night, 6:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m. Friday, Jan. 12, outdoors on the school playground. Next, students and families can get ready for a Family Social-Souper Bowl 3-5 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 11, at the Center of Anna Maria Island, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria. Friday, Feb. 16, is reserved for Boys Night Out 5:30-7:30 p.m. at AME. On Thursday, Feb. 22, the third-grade classes will perform a play at 6 p.m. in the AME auditorium. Before the show, at 5 p.m., the PTO will host a dinner with sponsor chick-fil-a in the cafeteria. dinner must be ordered ahead, with the price for adults and children $10 each. March brings the magical Princess Ball. The event will be 5:30-7:30 p.m. Friday, March 1, in the AME auditorium. Students attend with adult-parent supervision. Also, the second-grade classes will perform a play at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, March 21, in the AME auditorium following dinner in the cafeteria. The third quarter ends March 9. Masiello said some dates and events may change. He also said the school is not holding the Dolphin Dash, which usually takes place in the third quarter. Masiello said the PTO decided to forgo the event due to the number of personnel needed to organize the race. In 2023, the race was canceled due to road construction in Holmes Beach. Masiello was unsure whether the dash would return in 2025.

Patricia Webster of the Kiwanis club of anna maria island presents a donation dec. 4, 2023, to ame principal mike masiello and ame counselor/K-Kids club coordinator Kim sherburne at the Holmes Beach school. islander Photos: courtesy ame

K-Kids aim for positive school culture

K-Kids include asher Patel, front left, camden rudacille, ella Bourgoing, Karolina Veselik, anna fiedler and daphne elmore and Josephine locke; back left, erin mcdermott, lillyanna murphy, Bliss rippy, miriam mohib, michael lopez, nolyn fetzer, trinity miller, cooper Pitkin and madison company.

Tiki & Kitty’s

Hello 2024! It’s time to join Tiki and Kitty

on their round of shopping, looking for decor and bargains galore to lift their spirits in the new year. Make this the year to shop the best. We’ll definitely make a stop at Blue Flamingo, home to hip and trendy upcycled and repurposed goods, furniture and decor, garden features, candles, jewelry and work by local artisans. They also offer Dixie Belle paints. You can always find a perfect vintage treasure in your travels around town. T&K love Cat’s Meow, an 8,000 square-foot marketplace! Their vendors offer coastal, cottage, beach, antique, boho, mid-century modern and other home decor styles. they also offer vintage to fine jewelry and vintage albums. You may want to lace up your skates, as this large, former skating rink has plenty to offer bargain, antique, unique hunters. You don’t want to miss this vast collection of vendors.

Blessed and Distressed is a tastefully designed store — so inviting, you’ll want to pull up a chair — with collectibles and work by local artists at Palma Sola Square, around the corner from Winn-Dixie. It offers 30-plus vintage, upcycled, shabby chic and artsy vendors. You won’t be disappointed. Scavengers Marketplace has plenty of vendors to capture your wallet at the palmetto store, 2100 u.s. 301. There’s always something new to entice you among the vendors’ eclectic collections.

Stop by at our other locations:

Adventures in Shopping … Antiques, Art-Tiques and Chic Boutiques! FYI: Scavengers also carries Fusion Paints. The Vintage Vine Market is a favorite for Tiki and Kitty, who love the fine vintage wares and items with a whimsical twist at this store in historic Old Manatee along the newest section of the Bradenton Riverwalk. The location in the 1910 building oozes charm. And they take select consignments by appointment. And don’t forget, tell people you meet along the way, “The Islander sent me.” Wed-Sat 10-5 Palma Sola Square Winn Dixie Plaza

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

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

Your place for fun, funky

Miss us? WE MISS YOU AMI!

• Friday, Jan. 12, 3:45 p.m., PTO board meeting. • Friday, Jan. 12, 6:30 p.m., PTO family social, outdoor movie, school playground. • Monday, Jan. 15, Martin Luther King Jr. Day, no school. • Thursday, Jan. 25, 3:45 p.m., SAC meeting. • Friday, Jan. 26, TBD, walkathon, school playground. • Sunday, Feb. 11, 3 p.m., PTO family social, “Souper Bowl” party, Center of Anna Maria Island, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria. • Monday, Feb. 19, Presidents Day, no school. • Wednesday, March 6, 1:50 p.m., early release. • Friday, March 15, teacher workday, no school. • March 25-29, spring break, no school. Anna Maria Elementary is at 4700 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. For more information, call the school at 941-708-5525.

MULTI-VENDORS & LOCAL ARTISTS

FUSION MINERAL PAINT

Dru Love, Owner Dru@bdVintage.com

Sales & Workshops

quirky!

Great work from Local Artisans Upcycled, Repurposed, Vintage Dixie Belle Paint, Fun Gifts & More! theblueflamingo.biz

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

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

4307 26th St. W. Bradenton 941.782.8883

Page 14 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Jan. 10, 2024 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Gathering

LBK church conducts concert

Perri Parkman will lead Holy Yoga outdoor By lisa neff sessions at 11:30 a.m. Wednesdays at roser memorial community church, 512 Pine ave., Roser Memorial Community Church, 512 Pine anna maria. Ave., Anna Maria, is offering a variety of ways for islander couradults and kids to keep resolutions to get fit, volunteer, tesy Photo

Christ Church of Longboat Key invites the public to its Winter Concert, set for 2 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 14, and featuring violinist Stewart Kitts’ quartet. The church announcement says, “This program promises to inspire, dazzle and deliver a complete range of emotion.” There is no fee to attend. the presbyterian usa church is at 6400 Gulf of Mexico Drive. For more, call the church at 941-383-8833.

Roser rallies for resolutions

Jan. 23, Longboat Island Chapel Social Hour and Coat/Sweater Drive, Longboat Key. Feb. 8, St. Bernard Women’s Guild luncheon, Holmes socialize and more in 2024. Beach. Roser offers piano classes Wednesdays with music compiled by lisa neff Feb. 10, Episcopal Church of the Annunciation White Elephant ministries associate director Brandon Kouri and handsale, Holmes Beach. bell classes Thursdays with music ministries director THIS WEEK Feb. 11, Roser Church blood drive, Anna Maria. Craig Ramberger, as well as invites kids to join its Feb. 12, Christ Church Valentine Luncheon Cruise, SaraWednesday, Jan. 10 youth choir. sota. 10 a.m. — Eleven-week Bible study begins, Longboat Island Volunteers are called to help pack seeds for mission teams around the world 9 a.m.-noon the second Chapel, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key. Info: 941-383ONGOING ON AMI 6491. Wednesday of the month through April. CrossPointe Fellowship, 8605 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. For the fitness-minded, a new Holy Yoga class Thursday, Jan. 11 Info: 941-778-0719, crosspointefellowship.church. 11L30 a.m. — Women’s guild luncheon, St. Bernard, 248 S. is offered Wednesdays at 11:30 a.m., in addition to Worship: Sundays, 9 a.m. roserrobics exercise classes and Golfing for God out- Harbor Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-4769. Ongoing: Wednesdays, 7 a.m., men’s Bible meeting; WednesSunday, Jan. 14 ings. 8 a.m.-noon — Holy Name Society Pancake Breakfast, St. days, 6 p.m., Wednesday Night Blast supper and 6:30 p.m., WednesAnd, for all, Roser is participating in the January series of calvin university lectures to be streamed in Bernard, 248 S. Harbor Drive, Holmes Beach. Fee applies. Informa- day Night Blast; Fridays, 10 a.m. women’s Bible meeting. Episcopal Church of the Annunciation, 4408 Gulf Drive, the church fellowship hall at 12:30 p.m. weekdays Jan. tion: 941-778-4769. 2 p.m. — Winter Concert, Christ Church of Longboat Key, 6400 Holmes Beach. Info: 941-778-1638, amiannunciation.org. 15-Feb. 2. Worship: Thursdays, 9:30 a.m.; Sundays, 8 a.m. and 10:15 Gulf of Mexico Drive, LBK. Info: 941-383-8833. For more, call the church at 941-778-0414. a.m. SAVE THE DATE Ongoing: Most Wednesdays, 8 a.m., men’s breakfast; MonJan. 15-Feb. 2, Roser Calvin College January Series, Anna days, 1 p.m., book club. Longboat Island Chapel’s charitable outreach in Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, 6608 Marina Drive. Holmes January involves collecting gently-used coats and Maria and remote. Beach. Info: 941-778-1813, gloriadeilutheran.com. Jan. 17, Feb. 7, Roser Golfing for God, Bradenton. sweaters for those in need of them. Worship: Sundays, 9:30 a.m., followed by coffee and fellowJan. 21, Episcopal Church of the Annunciation annual meeting People can bring the donations to a social hour at ship. the chapel, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, and brunch, Holmes Beach. Ongoing: First Sundays, food bank collections; Wednesdays, Jan. 22, Christ Church Women’s Luncharound, Longboat at 5 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 23. 9:30 a.m., women’s social gathering. Key. For more, call the church at 941-383-6491. Harvey Memorial Community Church, 300 Church Ave., Bradenton Beach. Information: 941-779-1912. Worship: Sundays, 9:15 a.m. Growing in Jesus’ Name Worship With Us at Our Church Roser Memorial Community Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Gathering is the Sunday Service 10:00 AM Maria. Information: 941-778-0414, roserchurch.com. religion page for The Dr. Julia Wharff Piermont, Pastor Worship: Sundays, 8:30 a.m., 10 a.m. Islander. DĞŶ’Ɛ ŝďůĞ ^ƚƵĚǇ͗ DŽŶĚĂǇ Λ ϵ͗ϬϬ Ongoing: Tuesdays, Thursdays, 9:30 a.m., RoserRobics; TuesPlease, send tŽŵĞŶ’Ɛ ŝďůĞ ^ƚƵĚǇ͗ tĞĚŶĞƐĚĂǇ Λ ϭϬ͗ϬϬ days, 2 p.m., women’s book study; first and third Wednesdays, 11:30 notices, photos, lista.m., Just Older Youth group; Wednesdays through April 17, 1 p.m., tĂƚĐŚ KƵƌ 1Ϭ͗ϬϬ D ^ĞrǀŝĐĞ >ŝǀĞ͗ ings and changes to ǁǁǁ͘ďŝƚ͘ůǇ/ĐĐůďŬƐĞƌŵŽŶƐ or GriefShare; select Wednesdays, 9:30 a.m., Mom’s Cafe; Wednescalendar@islander. www.christchurchof ůďŬ͘ŽƌŐ (ĨŽůůŽǁ zŽƵdƵďĞ ůŝŶkͿ days, 11:30 a.m., Holy Yoga. org. St. Bernard Catholic Church, 248 S. Harbor Drive, Holmes “Gospel Shorthand: The Christian Journey in 13 Words” Beach. Info: 941-778-4769, stbernardcc.org, office@stbernardcc. ϯ ͳ ^ h E z ^ Z D K E ^ Z / ^ / E : E h Zz org. Worship: Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m.; Saturdays, 4 p.m.; Sun:ĂŶƵĂƌǇ ϭϰ͕ Ϯϭ͕ ĂŶĚ Ϯϴ • 10:00 D days, 8:30 a.m., 10:30 a.m. ,ĂǀĞ ǇŽƵ ĞǀĞƌ ǁŝƐŚĞĚ ĨŽƌ Ă ĨŽĐƵƐĞĚ ǁĂǇ ƚŽ ƚŚŝŶŬ ĂďŽƵƚ ǁŚĂƚ ŝƚ ŵĞĂŶƐ Ongoing: Monday-Friday, 8 a.m., rosary; Wednesdays, 7:30 ƚŽ ďĞ ŚƌŝƐƟĂŶ͕ Žƌ ĨŽƌ Ă ŶŽŶͲƉƵƐŚǇ ǁĂǇ ƚŽ ƚĂůŬ ĂďŽƵƚ ǇŽƵƌ ĨĂŝƚŚ ǁŝƚŚ ŽƚŚĞƌƐ͍ a.m.; Rosary on the Beach at Manatee Public Beach; Saturdays, 3 ƌ͘ WŝĞƌŵŽŶƚ ŚĂƐ ĐƌĞĂƚĞĚ ͞'ŽƐƉĞů ^ŚŽƌƚŚĂŶĚ͗ dŚĞ ŚƌŝƐƟĂŶ :ŽƵƌŶĞǇ ŝŶ ϭϯ tŽƌĚƐ͟ p.m., confession. ƚŽ ĂĚĚƌĞƐƐ ƚŚĞƐĞ ŶĞĞĚƐ͘ ĂĐŚ ^ƵŶĚĂǇ ǁŝůů ƌĞǀĞĂů Ă ĨĞǁ ŽĨ ƚŚĞ ƚŚŝƌƚĞĞŶ ǁŽƌĚƐ͕ ONGOING OFF AMI ƚŚĞ ŬĞǇ ĞǀĞŶƚ ŝŶ ^ĐƌŝƉƚƵƌĞ ŽŶ ǁŚŝĐŚ ŝƚ ŝƐ ďĂƐĞĚ͕ ĂŶĚ ƚŚĞ ŬĞǇ ǁĂǇ ŚƌŝƐƟĂŶƐ ƌĞƐƉŽŶĚ ƚŽ ƚŚĂƚ ĞǀĞŶƚ͘ Invite a friend! Christ Church of Longboat Key Presbyterian USA, 6400 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key. Info: 941-900-4903, christchurchoflbk.org. Worship: Sundays, 10 a.m. • • Ongoing: Wednesdays, 10 a.m., women’s Bible study; Mondays, 9 a.m., men’s Bible study; Tuesdays, 1:30 p.m., bridge club. Longboat Island Chapel, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key. Info: 941-383-6491, longboatislandchapel.org. KŶ ^ƵŶĚĂǇ͕ :ĂŶƵĂƌǇ ϭϰ͕ ĂĐĐůĂŝŵĞĚ ǀŝŽůŝŶŝƐƚ ^ƚĞǁĂƌƚ <ŝƩƐ ǁŝůů ďƌŝŶŐ ŚŝƐ ^ƚƌŝŶŐ YƵĂƌƚĞƚ ƚŽ ŽƵƌ ĮƌƐƚ tŝŶƚĞƌ ŽŶĐĞƌƚ͘ ^ƚĞǁĂƌƚ ŚĂƐ ƉĞƌĨŽƌŵĞĚ ƚǁŽ ƉŽƉƵůĂƌ ƌĞĐŝƚĂůƐ ĨŽƌ ƵƐ ŝŶ ƚŚĞ ƉĂƐƚ͘ ,Ğ ŚĂƐ ƉƵƚ Worship: Sundays, 10 a.m. ƚŽŐĞƚŚĞƌ ŚŝƐ ŐƌŽƵƉ ǁŝƚŚ ƚŚƌĞĞ ŽĨ ƚŚĞ ĮŶĞƐƚ ŵƵƐŝĐŝĂŶƐ ŝŶ ƚŚĞ ^ŽƵƚŚĞĂƐƚĞƌŶ hŶŝƚĞĚ ^ƚĂƚĞƐ͘ dŚŝƐ Ongoing: Mondays, 4 p.m., choir practice. ƉƌŽŐƌĂŵ ƉƌŽŵŝƐĞƐ ƚŽ ŝŶƐƉŝƌĞ͕ ĚĂǌǌůĞ ĂŶĚ ĚĞůŝǀĞƌ Ă ĐŽŵƉůĞƚĞ ƌĂŶŐĞ ŽĨ ŵƵƐŝĐĂů ĞŵŽƟŽŶƐ͘ Temple Beth Israel, 567 Bay Isles Road, Longboat Key. Info: facebook.com/ 941-383-3428. Islandernewspaper Worship: Fridays, Shabbat, 5:30 p.m.; Saturdays, 10 a.m.

Tidings

Chapel collecting coats

Gathering

WE LIKE LIKES

WINTER CONCERT SERIES Sunday

January 14, 2024

2:00 PM

^ƚƌŝŶŐ YƵĂƌƚĞƚ ŽŶĐĞƌƚ

Roser Church

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

SUNDAY WORSHIP 8:30 AM & 10:00 AM

IN PERSON � in the Sanctuary Nursery • Children’s Church ONLINE � Watch LIVE or LATER

^ƚĞǁĂƌƚ <ŝƩƐ Violinist

^ĂŶĚǇ <ŝƩƐ Violinist

ďďǇ ŽůůŝŶƐ Cellist

ĂŶŝĞů ŽƌƚĞƐ Violinist

KE Zd^ Θ W Z</E' Z &Z • s/^/dKZ^ Θ Z ^/ Ed^ t > KD 6400 Gulf of Mexico Dr. • 941.383.8833 ;ŽĸĐĞͿ • ǁǁǁ͘ĐŚƌŝƐƚĐŚƵƌĐŚŽŇďŬ͘ŽƌŐ

RoserChurch.com

Sign up to receive the eBulletin at RoserChurch.com/contact-us The CHAPEL is open during office hours for prayer and meditation 941-778-0414 • 512 Pine Ave, Anna Maria • FOLLOW us on Facebook @RoserChurch

Jan. 10, 2024 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 15 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Christine Olson, 2007: Christine Olson’s 22-year-old daughter Tiffiany died in 2005 in a motorcycle crash, after which Olson sought to connect people in emergency situations with loved ones and family members who “need to know.” The quest led her to our office and then-state Rep. Bill Galvano, who was a state senator. Galvano led Olson to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, which allowed contact information in the existing Driver And Vehicle Information Database and law enforcement agencies to access information by “swiping” a driver’s license. Registration was added to the DHSMV website in October 2006 and, just like that, Tiffiany’s Initiative became reality. There are now well more than a million registered Florida emergency contact participants. We thank Olson for making a difference in the lives of many. For information or to register, visit the Pete Lannon, 2006: If there was one person website at www.toinformfamiliesfirst.org. who touched the fabric of life and brought out the best in the island community in 2006, it was Pete Lannon. Florida Institute for Saltwater HeriHe went far beyond his calling as a Holmes Beach tage, 2008: Cheers to the organization that runs the community resource officer to become a mentor for our Cortez Commercial Fishing Festival and dedicates children, a confidant for those in need and a friendly the proceeds to preserving the village, including the face that even island visitors came to know as they Burton store, the old schoolhouse and the 90-plus acre passed AME, where Lannon was a fixture as a crossing preserve that provides a buffer for the village from guard for more than five years. encroaching development. He fought cancer and eventually lost. He is still missed by many, but the anti-drug proRhea and Ed Chiles, 2009: It was an honor gram he taught at AME and his ideals live on. His char- for the island to be home to a first lady of Florida, Rhea acter traits are heralded at the entrance to the school, Chiles, and to have her return after the death of Gov. Lannon Way. Lawton Chiles. AMI embraced Rhea. Little did we know she would bring with her culture, education, arts and artists, and a sense of nature and the beauty around us — the Studio at Gulf and Pine. Combined with the generosity and vision of son Ed Chiles, owner of a trio of landmark restaurants Robert ‘Bob’ John Macaioni on Anna Maria Island and Longboat Key, we have a Robert “Bob” John Macaioni, 84, of Holmes legacy for the future. Beach, died Dec. 26, 2023. He was born Feb. 10, 1939, in StonThe Geyers, 2010: The Geyer family was our ington, Connecticut, to Amelia and 2010 Islanders of the Year. You may have known Pat John. Geyer as Holmes Beach mayor or commissioner and, His parents owned a bed-and-break- for many years, islanders loved her as Miss Duffy. fast inn, the Gypsy, in Misquamicut Patricia A. Geyer, proprietress of Duffy’s Tavern, Beach, Rhode Island, where he spent died May 1, 2010, at age 79, and she is remembered. his summers. Macaioni She served 18 years on the city commission and Mr. Macaioni loved his country was elected mayor from 1990-94. and served in the U.S. Army Reserves. He earned a Her daughters — and now their families — conbachelor’s degree in business administration and had tributed to community events, fundraisers and the a long, successful career with General Dynamics Elec- family business. Geyer gave her family and the island tric Boat Division in Groton, Connecticut, and New a great gift of traditions. York. He retired as chief of nuclear quality control at Miss Duffy earned many accolades, but surely 57. none pleased her more than the simple appreciation He married Gail in 1986 and moved from Old for her family, political service and burgers. Lyme, Connecticut, to Saratoga Springs, New York, For those reasons, the Geyers were our choice for and they enjoyed golfing, Saratoga Track and winters Islanders of the year 2010. on AMI. They moved full-time in 2019 to AMI, where Mr. Macaioni loved fishing in Tampa Bay, golfing and The Privateers, 2011: The Privateers, a showing the island to friends and family. repeat winner, brought revelry and excitement during He will be remembered for making people smile, their 40th anniversary year under the leadership of being a dapper dresser, sharing wisdom and his love Roger “Hoodat” Murphree. The captures at city halls of dancing and singing. He brought joy to anyone who was lucky enough to meet him. He loved all his grandchildren and great-grandchildren “to the moon and back.” A celebration of life is planned in Texas and Connecticut. Brown & Sons Funeral Homes & Crematory presents in Bradenton was in charge of arrangements. Mr. Macaioni is survived by daughter Tammi and husband Charles Zieber; son Robert “RJ” John II and wife Eloise; stepchildren April Bell and husband Richard, Tracey Sikorski and Brett Sikorski and wife Elizabeth. Islander award from page 9

many youth scholarships the Privateers award every year. They hosted the annual Snooks Adams Kids Day, “thieves markets” in season, blood drives, Fourth of July and Christmas parades and many “captures” and visits to almost every event where their presence is requested. They did all this and more — despite the death of their president, Greg “Shiprek” Davidson. Dick Cline, who also died in 2005, aided him, working behind the scenes. In spite of their losses, the Privateers continued to do great things. The stated mission of the Anna Maria Island Privateers is “Pirates for children and community.” They fulfill their mission and more, and we are all better for it.

Obituary

St. Bernard’s Holy Name Society

Private Practice • Convenient to Island • Accepts Most Insurances

Stephen J. Pere, DMD

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

8-NOON SUNDAY, JAN. 14

$10 Donation Children 12 and under eat FREE 248 S. Harbor Drive • Holmes Beach

Pat Geyer addresses an Islander election forum outside the newspaper office in Holmes Beach. Islander File Photo

were lifetime adventures for the city officials, some who found themselves shackled to the mast on the Skullywag with ransom to be paid. It was a very good year for the Privateers, a crew that proved worth its weight in gold — raising more than $40,000 for college scholarships — and continuing service and entertainment on the island. Arrrrrgh! Here’s to 40-plus years of Privateers. Pam Leckie, 2012: On to 2012, when we came to recognize a crusade of sorts by one woman to fill the island pantry, the Roser Food Pantry. The food pantry and its chair at the time, Pam Leckie, literally brought the pantry out of a church closet to a place of its own, where the pantry grew in its assistance to islanders. In 2012, Leckie and other volunteers distributed almost 1,500 bags of staples and gift cards for fresh foods. Leckie and her volunteers proved they are among the best of the best by coming to the aid with groceries for employees of the Rod & Reel Pier after a fire closed the Anna Maria restaurant. please, see islander award, Page 17

Ray Hodges, 77

Fierce on the tennis court as a young man, captain of his tennis team, trumpet player in his high school band, and reluctantly president of his Methodist Youth Fellowship in Georgia, this mild-mannered, creative gentleman took to music on his first guitar — from Sears and Roebuck. We are all better human beings for having known him. We lost him Dec. 26, 2023, due to complications of a blood clot. At Auburn University, one of his professors told him to drop out and head to New York City to write. Instead, he stayed, pledged Sigma Pi Fraternity and Hodges taught chording to a fellow fraternity brother, Jimmy Buffett. Ray married his sweetheart Terrie and fathered their son, Dee. Soon after graduating Auburn, he was drafted into the U.S. Army and sent to a war he didn’t believe in, Vietnam — a war he later protested. Ray’s life was music, from rock to blues, reggae and Americana. It was therapy to him. In October 2012, he brought a chapter of Soldier Songs and Voices out of Texas to Bradenton as a mission to teach veterans how to tell their stories in song. A prolific songwriter himself, this was a natural service to his brothers and sisters — those changed by a war they couldn’t win. He was a master’s level English teacher beloved by students and fondly remembered for the days he brought his guitar to the classroom to share his songs — letting them into his life as a person with a gift for words, inspiring more than one to pursue lives and careers in music. Ray was respected and loved by all who knew him – he loved his family and friends, and cherished his son Dee and life partner, Terrie, his sister Carol and brother Tom, and his dogs and cats through the years, especially Gracie and Coco, who he leaves behind. Devastated by Ray’s unexpected death, we will always love him and miss his calm belief there would be a better day. Privately, we will scatter his ashes in the old Manatee River, fulfilling the wishes and words he once crafted in a song. And here below is a verse from a song he wrote, proclaiming his love of island life, appropriately titled A.M.I. “Done a bit of ramblin’ cross this land, ya know it’s true Way out West, up Down East, at least a time or two No matter where I go, no matter what I do Always good to get back home to you Chorus: Anna Maria always good to see ya once again Back to the island spend a little time on the sugar sand.” – Ray Hodges

Page 16 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Jan. 10, 2024 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Travels

Milestones

Traveling in Portugal

islander dave miller traveled with his wife to nazaré, Portugal, in september and october, where miller stopped to check out “Veado,” a deer-headed statue celebrating those who surfed the area’s monster waves. He noted for the islander’s readers that nazaré is a setting for the documentary series “100 foot Wave.” islander courtesy Photo

Sharing holiday spirit … Vic caserta, left, and wife Kathy, right, join donny the dolphin in entertaining kids at st. Joseph’s children’s Hospital in december 2023. they gave stuffed toys on behalf of clearwater marine aquarium to children at st. Joseph’s in tampa and Johns Hopkins all children’s Hospital in st. Pete. Vic caserta serves on the aquarium’s board of directors.

… and celebrating 47 years Vic and Kathy caserta of Holmes Beach dine at Bourbon & Bones in lakewood ranch to celebrate 47 years of marriage. they shared the evening with a table of friends. islander courtesy Photos

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In 2016, the newspaper honored a grand figure in Moose International — Ernie Casali.

Islander award from page 14

Gene Aubry, 2013: Former Anna Maria Commissioner Gene Aubry, who died in 2023, was a renaissance man, empowered with seemingly limitless knowledge, embracing a sort of great thinking. He stepped up to serve the city — many times. If you didn’t hear him play guitar, you might not have recognized his range of talent. If you didn’t know of his many architectural achievements, you might have doubted this quiet man had reached such heights. If you didn’t know of his art — the simple, fine lines and subtle colors that capture moments in time like no photograph could — you might not have appreciated his refined taste. Jeannie Bystrom, 2014: For 2014, we honored the effort of one woman — Jeannie Bystrom — to make a difference by not only saving seabirds day after day, freeing them from fishing line entanglement and other hazards encountered in their habitat, but more so for pushing for better education and regulations to protect wildlife and our valuable environmental assets.

In naming former Anna Maria Commissioner Gene Aubry its Islander of the Year for 2013, the newspaper described him as a renaissance man.

Vern McGowin, 2018: For 2018, serving among the heroes in law enforcement with grace, embracing our children in his duties at AME and always putting a caring manner behind the badge, there was Holmes Beach Police Sgt. Vern McGowin. He was off to relish a much-deserved retirement Sabine Musil-Buehler, 2015: As we and an adventure that put family first. We celebrated Vern and wished him well. searched for the person who made a difference in our lives in 2015, we came to realize the value of lessons Wildlife Inc. , Ed and Gail Straight, learned from the loss of Sabine Musil-Buehler and for the closure she provided from her final resting place 2019: Who you gonna call with a wildlife emergency? on the beach. Ask an animal-, bird-, wildlife-lover and the We pledged to honor her memory with the final answer comes readily: Wildlife Inc. sunset of the year. Gail or Ed Straight are founders and directors of Ernie Casali, 2016: In 2016, we recognized a Wildlife Rescue and Rehabilitation Inc., based in their grand figure in Moose International and at our local home in Bradenton Beach since 1987. Ed Straight, president and former Bradenton lodge in Bradenton Beach, Ernie Casali. He made a difference for the lodge over the course Beach commissioner, a retired law enforcement offiof years as its manager and in the daily lives of people cer, started rescuing animals in need as a hobby. The Straights now manage thousands of rescued he helped — both through the Moose and through his birds and animals yearly, from laughing gulls and owls own soft-hearted generosity. You may never know who gave to a needy person to Key deer, otters, squirrels and many more, caring for their injuries or nursing them when they’re abandoned or a cause, but it often was Ernie. and returning them to the wild whenever possible. Thanks to you, Gail and Ed, and to all the Islanders Hurricane Irma responders, 2017: For 2017, we recognized the people who made a safe return of the Year who came before you. to the island possible after the evacuation for Hurricane YOU: You were the Islander of the Year in 2020. Irma. You, the person who diligently wore your lifeWe saw damage but not devastation from the storm and our “hurricane heroes” kept order, soothed our saving mask, repeatedly washed your hands and sanitized and, especially, respected other people’s need for fears and led us back home. personal space by social distancing in order to protect yourself and others, your family and the strangers you encounter, as you went about your essential business.

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Cortez Bridge Battlers Joe McClash, Jane von Hahmann, Linda Molto and Joe Kane, 2021: We honored the four who took the challenge to a high bridge on Cortez Road to the courts. They were four crusaders fighting for the preservation of the ambiance and historic character of Cortez and Anna Maria Island as they battled the Florida Department of Transportation’s proposed megabridge to replace the old 1957-built drawbridge connecting Bradenton Beach and the mainland at the fishing village. Their challenge was new. Their battle was decades’ old, as one of the newspaper’s earliest Islander of the Year honorees also battled a megabridge. Suzi Fox, 2022: It was 4 a.m. and a caller was alerting me that there was a large turtle stranded on the road across from Bayfront Park in Anna Maria. The caller — a newspaper delivery person, said the sea turtle appeared to be struggling, breathing heavily and moving very slowly. Who was I going call? Suzi Fox, of course. And despite the hour, a legion of volunteers turned up to direct her back to the waters of Tampa Bay. They searched and found the turtle’s nesting site in the dunes at the north end of Bayfront Park and took note of the porch lights on the homes on North Bay Boulevard — the likely cause of the sea turtle’s distraction from her return to the water she came from. That was about 25 or so years ago, when Fox was hitting her stride with Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch. The volunteers were plentiful and there was much to be learned from the behavior of sea turtles locally and by environmentalists. Fox took over when turtle watch was in a conundrum — caught between volunteers unwilling to forego old school hatcheries and release methods for hatchlings that had been banned by the state and to implement new guidelines that followed science.

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New Year’s Eve vessel crash results in hospital visit for boater By ryan Paice islander reporter

Manatee County Emergency Medical Services transported Parrish resident Reese Wilson, 22, on New Year’s Eve to HCA Florida Blake Hospital in Bradenton due to a head laceration following a boating crash. EMS and three Holmes Beach police officers arrived at the Kingfish Boat ramp, 752 manatee ave., around 5:06 p.m. Dec. 31 in response to reports of a boat crash.

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Holmes Beach police arrested a Longboat Key resident dec. 29, 2023, on a first-degree misdemeanor for allegedly driving under the influence of alcohol. an officer was on patrol when a motorist pulled up beside his vehicle and advised him about a crash at the intersection of East Bay Drive and Manatee Avenue. at the intersection, the officer found a pickup truck that appeared to have struck multiple objects in the median before hitting a rock and losing control on the sidewalk, hitting a pedestrian crossing signal and city generator. the officer spoke to the driver, Hal christensen, 48, who said he failed to navigate a turn, resulting in the crash. the officer conducted a traffic investigation and found the motorist at fault. He asked Christensen perform field sobriety exercises, which the man refused. the officer arrested christensen and asked for breath samples, which Christensen refused to provide. Christensen was taken to the Manatee County jail. He was released the same day after posting $500 bond. if convicted, punishment for a first-degree misdemeanor includes up to one year in jail, one year of probation and a fine of up to $1,000. An arraignment will be at 8:55 a.m. Tuesday, Jan. 30, at the Manatee County Judicial Center, 1051 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton. — ryan Paice

A boater escorted another vessel — with Wilson and her boyfriend, Mason Miller, 21, of Bradenton, aboard — to the boat ramp around 5:20 p.m. Wilson, who was placed in an ambulance, was “alert” and “oriented” despite having a laceration above her left eye, according to a police report. the officers informed the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission about the matter. an FWc officer told police to keep those involved with the crash at the scene and to remove nothing from the vessel.

Streetlife

Island police reports

Anna Maria No new reports. The Manatee County Sheriff’s Ofﬁce polices Anna Maria. Bradenton Beach Dec. 31, 2023, 2000 block of Gulf Drive North, fraud. A Bradenton Beach police officer was dispatched to a call concerning possible fraud after a vacation rental management company found a credit card was fraudulently being used to pay for a rental unit. the officer arrived to the vacation property to find two people who claimed they were party guests but did not know who rented the unit. Police removed the occupants at the request of the rental company. The BBPD polices Bradenton Beach. Cortez No new reports. The MCSO polices Cortez. Holmes Beach Dec. 27, 6100 block of Marina Drive, vandalism. a Holmes Beach police officer responded to reports of vandalism. The complainant said he noticed a broken light on a sign on his property. Dec. 27, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Baker act. an officer responded to reports of a man at the library who expressed plans to set himself on fire. the man removed a lighter from his pocket, so the officer handcuffed him. The man expressed a desire to harm himself and told police he wanted help. the officer put the man in protective custody under the Baker Act and transported the man to the Centerstone Behavioral Hospital in Bradenton. Jan. 1, Anna Maria Elementary, 4700 Gulf Drive,

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The officers spoke with Miller, who had been piloting the vessel and provided a sworn statement about the crash. Miller also called a friend who was onboard the vessel to ask him, upon police request, to return to the scene to provide testimony. an FWc officer arrived at the boat ramp to conduct an investigation, but had no body camera, so a Holmes Beach police officer assisted during interviews with the people involved. The FWC did not provide a report on the case before The Islander’s press deadline. Wilson told The Islander Jan. 4 that she was feeling well following the crash.

assisting law enforcement. three officers received a call via dispatch that a potentially suicidal man with a firearm had driven into the city. the officers joined a chase and stopped a motorist who was placed in protective custody under the Baker Act. The vehicle contained a firearm and ammunition. Jan. 1, Kingfish Boat ramp, 752 manatee ave., ordinance violation. an officer found two vehicles illegally parked at the boat ramp, one displaying advertisements for a kayak tour business. the officer advised the motorists of parking and signage violations. The vehicle with advertising signage did not have a license tag. the officer spoke with the vehicle’s owner, who said the plate was stolen and accused the city of harassing his business. The motorists moved the vehicles and the officer filed a report with code compliance. Jan. 1, Manatee Public Beach, 4000 Gulf Drive, petit theft. an officer responded to reports of a past theft and spoke with the complainant, who said her bag went missing while unattended. the officer issued a case card and victim’s rights brochure, as well as referred the case for investigation. Jan. 2, Manatee Public Beach, 4000 Gulf Drive, trespass. an officer found a man in the park after closing hours and trespassed him from the property. HBPD polices Holmes Beach. Streetlife is based on incident reports and narratives from the BBPD, HBPD and MCSO.

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Jan. 10, 2024 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 19 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Sarasota man leads police from Holmes Beach to Sarasota on high-speed chase By Ryan Paice Islander Reporter

Brandon Hunt, 18, of Sarasota is facing five charges after a high-speed car chase Dec. 29, 2023, beginning in Holmes Beach and ending in Sarasota. The charges from Manatee County sheriff’s deputies include: • A second-degree felony for allegedly fleeing to elude law enforcement with disregard for safety of persons or property; • A second- or third-degree felony for alleged aggravated assault of a law enforcement officer; • A third-degree felony for alleged failure to obey a law enforcement officer’s order to stop; • A first-degree misdemeanor for alleged reckless driving first offense; • A second-degree misdemeanor for allegedly leaving the scene of a crash. A Holmes Beach police officer around 10:38 p.m. saw a motorist driving a Ford Mustang south on Gulf Drive at a high speed, proceeding through a red light at the intersection with East Bay Drive. The officer activated lights and sirens for a traffic stop, but the motorist accelerated and moved into the path of oncoming, northbound traffic to pass a motorist on Gulf Drive. The Holmes Beach Police Department notified

the Bradenton Beach Police Department of the pursuit and, soon after, the BBPD officer posted near the intersection of Gulf Drive and Cortez Road saw the vehicle pass the intersection at a high speed around 10:40 p.m. The officer also attempted a traffic stop but the motorist accelerated south before heading back north at the Bridge Street roundabout. The motorist drove northbound in Gulf Drive’s southbound lane, causing another officer to swerve off the roadway. Police continued the chase across the Cortez Bridge onto the mainland, where the motorist swerved into oncoming traffic to pass others and drove out of sight of pursuers. Around 10:43 p.m., an MCSO deputy cited the motorist traveling southbound on 75th Street West. An MCSO helicopter tailed the motorist into Sarasota County and, according to a BBPD report, “after multiple incidents, were able to stop the vehicle and arrest the driver,” identified as Hunt. A deputy transported Hunt to the Manatee County jail, where he remained in custody under $9,240 bond as of Jan. 4. The HBPD officer involved in the case filed a capias request for a second-degree felony against Hunt

for allegedly fleeing to elude with “wanton disregard” for persons and property. A BBPD officer involved in the case filed a capias request against Hunt for the same charge and a firstdegree misdemeanor for reckless driving, as well as the aggravated assault charge. According to a BBPD report, the assault charge was due to Hunt “driving recklessly at a high rate of speed, in the opposite direction of traffic, directly in the path of a marked patrol car with its lights and sirens activated, causing the police officer to frantically swerve out of the roadway onto the sidewalk in order to not be struck.” If convicted, punishment for a second-degree felony charge includes up to 15 years in prison, 15 years of probation and a fine of up to $10,000. Punishment for a third-degree felony charge includes up to five years in prison, five years of probation and a fine of up to $5,000. A first-degree misdemeanor charge carries up to one year of jailtime, one year of probation and a fine of up to $1,000. A second-degree misdemeanor charge carries up to 60 days of jailtime, six months of probation and a fine of up to $500. An arraignment was not scheduled as of Jan. 4.

Islander award from page 17

In fact, the Anna Maria’s sea turtle permit was in flux, having been denied the previous leaders by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. Fox stepped up and started attending Florida Department of Environmental Permitting permit-holders meetings and learning the science to best protect the habitat and the sea turtles. And Fox qualified AMITW with the county to manage nesting data related to the funding for beach renourishment. With the contract came funding for Fox, who was named executive director. Meanwhile, Fox coordinated volunteers, activities and sea turtle nesting season. She oversaw putting in effect limits on the beach for lighting and beach gear left overnight — vastly improving the habitat. She followed turtle watch groups across the Gulf Coast and the state, always seeking to improve her advocacy for sea turtles. All the while, Fox pursued her passion for sea turtles, never forgetting why she put her heart and soul into Anna Maria Island. Fox was first named Islander of the Year back in 1999 and over the years we developed a friendship based on mutual respect and I was proud to share her passion with our readers.

People step up to a ribbon of ribbons in February 2020 to take part in a COVID-19 memorial on the shore in Anna Maria. For 2020, the Islander of the Year was “you” — the people who did their part through a pandemic. Islander File Photo: Connie Wolgast Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch executive director Suzi Fox stands by her ATV on the beach where she monitored and cared for sea turtles for three decades. Fox died Sept. 30, 2022. In early 2023, AM and HB recognized her contributions, naming her Citizen of the Year for 2022, and, in Bradenton Beach, officials proclaimed May 1, 2023, the start of sea turtle nesting season, Suzi Fox Day. Islander File Photo

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Page 20 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Jan. 10, 2024 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

2023’s tops in sports By Kevin P. cassidy islander reporter

Another year has passed in the sports world on and around Anna Maria Island and we’re looking back at 12 months of training, racing, playing and teaming up. I need to recognize the “nuts and bolts” of my column. Topping the list are the sports — adult and youth — hosted at the Center of Anna Maria Island, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna cassidy Maria. Due to the multitude of activities at the center, it’s difficult to single out any individual youth or adult teams that won a league title but I wouldn’t have a lot to write about if it weren’t for the efforts of center sports director Tyler Bekkerus and the rest of the staff. The same holds true for the Key Royale Club in Holmes Beach and the Anna Maria Island Horseshoe Pitchers at Anna Maria City Hall. Week after week, Tom Nelson at KRC and Jay Disbrow with the pitchers send in their results. Highlights from the Key Royale Club came early in 2023 with Herb clauhs getting his first career holein-one Jan. 27 on the eighth hole. A few weeks later, Feb. 17, Tony Niewijk got his first hole-in-one on the 162-yard fourth hole. Other events that stand out at the club include the championships and the holiday-themed tournaments. Horseshoe highlights include the 10th annual Ron Pepka Memorial horseshoe tournament March 4, which honors longtime lead man Ron Pepka. The double-elimination tourney saw Tom Skoloda and Adin Shank take the win. The pitchers closed out the year donating $730 to Kelly pinkskey of meals on Wheels plus prior to horseshoe action Dec. 20, continuing a longstanding tradition by the group of donating to local charities. Beyond such reports, these stories stand out: • mickey Hooke, a Galati marine staff member at the Anna Maria “store,” returned to racing after suffering a major plantar tear in his right heel. And all Hooke did in his return was set four course records on the way to a second-place overall finish in the dec. 2 pinellas county sheriff’s Office ride & run at Fort De Soto Park in Pinellas. Before Hooke suffered his injury, he competed in five races with four third-place overall wins, four grandmaster and one master victories. • sandy meneley of Holmes Beach earned the No.

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Ken Bowers, wife Bonnie and son lane pose at the mHs athletic Hall of Honors oct. 19, 2023, banquet held inducting Ken Bowers. islander file Photo

mickey Hooke crosses the finish line dec. 2, 2023, in second place overall at the 30th annual Pinellas county sheriff’s office ride & run with the stars at fort desoto Park in Pinellas county. Hooke set four course records in the race. islander file Photo: courtesy Kathy Johnson

1 ranking in 75-79 age group by usa triathlon. in addition to that honor, meneley had first-place finishes in her age group in the chilly Willy duathlon, the Gasparilla 15K and the Skyway Bridge run in March. • and the sports story of the year saw two longtime islanders— Ken Bowers and the late Andy Torgeson — inducted Oct. 19 into the Manatee High School Athletic Hall of Honor during a ceremony at the Seafood Shack in Cortez. It’s been said that Torgeson was the best all-around athlete in MHS history. He lettered in football, basketball, baseball and track. In football, he was a member of the All-County “1965 Dream Team” as a punting specialist and was on the 1966 All County Defensive Team. As a sophomore, he was an All-Western Conference pick in basketball and named to the All-Group 12 tourney in St. Petersburg. He was a baseball switch-hitter at Manatee but hit with more power as a lefty. He had a football scholarship to Fsu but before season started, he decided not to play football. Instead, he went to Fort Myers Edison Junior College, where his MHS coach, offered him a chance to play basketball. After college, Torgeson signed with the New York Yankees minor league team and was a Class A Fort Lauderdale Yankees player. Bowers was inducted into the hall based on his prowess on the soccer field. He and his brothers cole, Mark and Matt moved to Holmes Beach in 1975 with their mother Lois from Georgia and immediately became island icons. Bowers got his start playing soccer at the Anna

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sandy meneley shows off a first-place medal won in the march 12, 2023, skyway Bridge run. islander file Photo: courtesy fuzz meneley

Maria Youth Center and, as a freshman in 1981, when he entered mHs, it was the first year soccer was offered as a varsity sport. He didn’t play his freshman year, maybe because the coach didn’t care much for long-haired beach bums. He then went on to start every game for the Hurricanes soccer team 1982-84 and was named captain and MVP his senior year. During Bower’s senior year, he received offers from several Florida schools but committed to North Carolina Wesleyan. He went on to start every game for the Battling Bishops, was captain for two years and made All South, All Conference and Division III All American honors in 1988. In October 2014, Bowers was inducted into the North Carolina Wesleyan Athletic Hall of Fame. Congratulations to Hooke, Meneley, Bowers and the Torgeson family from The Islander. And happy new year to all.

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Jan. 10, 2024 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 21 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

As weather limits fishing, invest time in preserving our waters By capt. danny stasny islander reporter

anna maria-area anglers are finding themselves with idle time as cold fronts bring wind and rain, lessening the appeal of putting together a bite. On calmer, warmer days, you can bet that every Tom, Dick and Chaya will be out there trying to get an adequate dose of fishing after suffering through withdrawal brought on by stasny inclement weather. That also can be aggravating. crowds and fishing just don’t go together. With idle time on our hands, we can use an idea or two to keep us busy. Here’s your opportunity to learn and preserve. On Jan. 23 at 5:30 p.m. a group called Captains for Clean Water will be visiting our little island to give an informational seminar on what we can do to preserve the delicate fishery that we so adore. Hosted by the Center of Anna Maria Island, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria, Captains for Clean Water will reinforce the need to join together and be aware of water quality issues we face daily. captains for clean Water is a nonprofit started in 2016 to preserve, restore and protect water resources in Florida. By bringing public awareness and having a voice in the political arena, Captains for Clean Water is striving to improve and sustain the resource we love most about Florida — our aquatic paradise. In being aware of water quality issues, as well as preventative measures to keep our waters clean and the positive direction we can take to minimize the impact, we can impact Florida waters. You can bet that with the development boom we are seeing in Manatee County, we need someone in our corner to combat growth, or at least monitor it, to ensure proper measures are being taken to protect what undeveloped land we have left. And yes, I’m talking about land, because what happens on land directly impacts what’s happening to our water.

christine torgeson Van Zandt poses oct. 19, 2023, with the manatee High school athletic Hall of Honors plaque presented posthumously to her brother andy at an induction banquet at the seafood shack. islander file Photo

ESTABLISHED 1995

Capt. Mike Greig 941-778-1404 www.fishannamaria.com

captains for clean Water will host a get-together at the center of anna maria island at 5:30 p.m. tuesday, Jan. 23, to promote awareness of water quality issues in local waters. islander courtesy image

We are seeing more frequent red tides, which are more severe, as well as other issues, such as blue-green algae blooms, which just started popping up here in recent years. Overdevelopment, stormwater runoff of pesticides and fertilizers and poor infrastructure are big contributors to these problems and having an advocate — Captains for Clean Water — is a necessity. These folks have the time and resources to confront the issues we are seeing on our local waters, but they need our support to really have an impact. And, even if you’re not a Floridian, I think it’s everyone’s responsibility to be educated on the human impacts we’re causing to our delicate ecosystem. anna maria island is firmly positioned on the map as a quality tourist destination and we all need to share the responsibility of taking care of her and her surrounding waters. And don’t forget, when the water quality goes bad, the tourists will move to the next place, leaving locals to pick up the pieces. We’ve seen it in the past with severe red tides and it will happen again if we don’t start being stewards of our precious resources. So come out and show your support at 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 23, at the community center. It would be a great statement for our area if there could be one of the largest turnouts ever recorded for a Captains for Clean Water meeting. It’s time to get educated, get active and give back to the special place we call home. It’s time to get on board. For more information, visit captainsforcleanwater. org. On another note, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission has made changes to the snook regulations, although, in our region, the snook fishery is currently closed. It will open for harvest in March, April, September, October and November. The slot remains 28-33 inches, with a limit of one fish per day. Jim Malfese at the Rod & Reel Pier says sheepshead are making a showing. pier fishers using live shrimp as bait are catching sheepies measuring 12-14 inches. There are smaller ones mixed in, but determined anglers are taking a few nice-sized fish home for dinner. using live shrimp as bait is attracting redfish and black drum to the hook, too. Most reds being caught are over the maximum size limit of 27 inches, and are being released. as for the black drum, slot-size fish 14-24 inches are the norm and are nice additions to a stringer of sheepshead. capt. david White of anna maria charters is fishing inshore most days due to strong winds and rough

surf in the Gulf of Mexico. On these trips, he’s putting clients on a variety of species, including sheepshead, black drum, redfish and pompano — all taking live shrimp as bait. On days when fishing offshore is doable, White is leading clients to mangrove snapper and red grouper. For these fish, a bottom rig combined with a frozen sardine works nicely. Capt. Johnny Mattay, also guiding for AMC, is finding good action offshore on the few calm days between cold fronts. Bottom fishing with frozen sardines and live pinfish is working well for clients who are finding red grouper, many yellowtail and mangrove snapper and some large gag grouper in the mix. On windier days, Mattay is working inshore, where his anglers are using live shrimp as bait for good catches of sheepshead, redfish, black drum and mangrove snapper. Spotted seatrout also are being caught in the back country, where grass flats and sandy potholes exist, Mattay said. On my Just reel charters. i’m finding many species enjoying the live shrimp I’m putting out as bait. redfish are the most prominent catch for my clients, with black drum and sheepshead in the mix. I’m also seeing pompano, as well as numerous whiting, while fishing along the beaches. Finally, jack crevalle and ladyfish are finding their way to the boat as they can’t resist our offerings of live shrimp. Send high-resolution photos and ﬁshing reports to ﬁsh@islander.org.

Hadley, 20, and her dad, Kendall rhine of Key royale in Holmes Beach and statham, georgia, show off a nice red grouper they caught Jan. 1, opening day of grouper season, while fishing with capt. Johnny mattay of anna maria charters about 30 miles offshore in the gulf of mexico.

Page 22 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Jan. 10, 2024 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Bradenton Beach OKs ScenicWAVES Tree City application By Robert Anderson Islander Reporter

Bradenton Beach commissioners Jan. 4 gave a nod to ScenicWAVES’ Tree City USA application. ScenicWAVES is an advisory committee for scenic highway issues, beautification and landscaping. The application to continue the city’s Tree City USA status is part of an effort to enhance the city’s tree canopy. “What we try to do is promote awareness of the citywide tree canopy and landscaping education programs and meet the national standards to be a Tree City USA city,” Ingrid McClellan, who chairs ScenicWAVES, told commissioners. The tree program, sponsored by the Arbor Day Foundation in partnership with the U.S. Forest Service and the National Association of State Foresters, recognizes communities that invest in their urban forestry programs. The program requires four steps for certification: maintaining a tree board or department, having a community tree ordinance, spending at least $2 per capita on urban forestry and celebrating National Arbor Day. McClellan said the city’s affiliation with the Tree City program dates to 2011 and is traditionally cel-

Heronwatching People stop and stare Dec. 28, 2023, at a great blue heron on the Anna Maria City Pier walkway. The pier is at the east end of Pine Avenue in Anna Maria. Islander Photo: Ryan Paice

Richard Larson, left, of the Florida Forest Service; Bradenton Beach ScenicWAVES Committee members Peg Miller, Cathy King, Lee Zerkel and Shawn Mayers; Anna Maria Island Garden Club president Kathy Morgan Johnson; and Bradenton Beach Mayor John Chappie mark National Arbor Day April 28, 2023, with the planting of a pigeon plum at Herb Dolan Park. Islander File Photo: Courtesy Ingrid McClellan

ebrated with tree plantings on National Arbor Day, in 2022. observed the last Friday in April. The committee also collected donations for an McClellan said ScenicWAVES commemorated islandwide tree giveaway in 2023. Arbor Day 2023 by planting three pigeon plum trees at Mayor John Chappie thanked the organizations Herb Dolan Park, 2501-2599 Ave. A, where Australian that donated to ScenicWAVES in 2023, including: pine trees were uprooted by storms from Hurricane Ian • $250, Anna Maria Island Garden Club; • $250, Modern Woodmen of America; • $250, Anna Maria Island Moose Lodge; • $1,335, the Florida Forest Service. McClellan said ScenicWAVES held 10 meetings in the 2022-23 fiscal year and members put in more than 183 volunteer hours. She said ScenicWAVES would begin plans for this year’s Arbor Day celebration during its next meeting, scheduled for 1 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 17, at city hall, 107 Gulf Drive N. Commissioner Jan Vosburgh motioned to approve the application and was seconded by Commissioner Ralph Cole. The motion passed 4-0. Commissioner Marilyn Maro attended the meeting and voted by phone. Look online for The Islander in the stacks of the UofF Florida digital newspaper collection at ufdc.ufl.edu.

RELEASE DATE: 1/7/2024

New York Times Sunday Magazine Crossword

No. 1231 WRAP STARS BY DREW SCHMENNER / EDITED BY WILL SHORTZ Drew Schmenner, of Pacifica, Calif., is a technical writer and editor for an education nonprofit. He was formerly an investigative reporter for The Desert Sun newspaper in Palm Springs. This is Drew’s fifth crossword for The Times and first Sunday. He and his wife have two daughters, ages 6 and 3, who will be angels this weekend at their church’s Christmas Eve pageant in San Francisco. — W. S.

AC R O S S 44 With significance 85 Fixes, as broken 93-Down 1 Using the bow, in music 46 In the manner of 87 Scary sight at the 5 Guesstimate 47 ‘‘Ithaca is ____’’ beach (punny slogan) 9 XXX 88 Olympic gymnast 48 Actress Diana of ‘ 13 Private retreat, of a Korbut ‘The Avengers’’ sort 89 Sign of approval 17 Charged exclamation 51 Arthur Ashe Courage 92 Kim’s ex, in tabloids Award, for one during a court trial 93 Formal ‘‘you,’’ in 52 Number of lords 18 ‘‘La ____ de los Spain a-leaping Espiritus,’’ debut 95 Muffle novel for Isabel 53 Surprise birthday Allende parties often involve 97 Actress Wen of ‘‘The Mandalorian’’ 19 Littlest sucklings them 99 Dude, in modern 21 Contents of a pot 54 Quantity of beer . . . slang or monkeys? 22 Ancient landmark 100 Workers seen in whose name 56 Max or X five squares in this translates 58 Name of Lincoln’s puzzle? to ‘‘high city’’ favorite dog 106 Make ends meet 24 Shadow 59 Branding need 108 End of turn? 25 Reporter’s coup 60 ____ buco 109 Binds tightly 26 One who’s not afraid 61 End of autumn? to brag 110 Speedy Northeast 64 Highly prized train 29 Fermented honey collectibles, in lingo concoction 111 Topples (over) 65 Bad design feature 30 Let 112 ‘‘____ Misbehavin’’’ for a Christmas 31 Bygone Seattle 113 Relative of a stocking? hoopsters cassowary 67 Fourth word in 34 Sympathize with 114 Midnight Mass ‘‘Jingle Bells’’ leader 36 Computer command 68 Hurt 115 Hurdle for a 38 What you might 70 Take a risk prospective J.D. get when you purchase Christmas 71 ‘‘Illmatic’’ rapper 116 Some cats, 72 Skateboard tricks ornaments on Dec. chameleons and started by kicking 26 chinchillas with the back foot 40 Part of a sleigh 117 Locale of the final 73 Dry, as Italian wine scene in ‘‘Vertigo’’ 41 Contraction that’s a homophone of 75 O’er and o’er 13-Across DOWN 78 Bring on board 42 Lover of Hero, in 1 ‘‘Regrettably . . . ’’ 80 Actress Skye Greek myth 2 Like Ebenezer Scrooge 81 Barks, perhaps 3 Sweet custardy 82 Mr. Potter vis-à-vis Online subscriptions: Today’s concoction George Bailey, in puzzle and more Answers: ‘‘It’s 4 Start of a well-known than 4,000 past puzzles, a Wonderful Life’’ address in Verona nytimes.com/crosswords page 24 ($39.95 a year). 83 ‘‘King Lear’’ daughter 5 Dress down

6 ‘‘The Winter’s ____’’ 7 Clearance-sale warning 8 Iconic features of ‘‘Under Pressure’’ and ‘‘Come Together’’ 9 What awaits a tragic hero 10 Bactrian pair 11 Hereditary 12 Walked assuredly 13 Brings to a boil 14 Colorful background 15 Uncle ____ (‘‘Seinfeld’’ character) 16 Madrid’s home, in the Olympics 20 Uncle ____ 21 Regarding 23 Tree in ‘‘The Twelve Days of Christmas’’ 27 Dispatches 28 Capital just below the 60th parallel 32 Musical style associated with Harry Belafonte 33 What a filthy mess! 34 Order 35 Magazine based in Paris 49 Goddess of the rainbow 36 Record kept on an employee 50 [I’ve had enough!] 37 What transforms 54 Puts to sleep, say Bruce Banner into 55 Analyzes, as a the Hulk metaphor 39 Spongy dessert 57 ‘‘The Bells’’ poet 42 Article of clothing that 58 Two or three might be decorated 59 Big name in book with candy canes publishing since 1817 43 Full of sex or 60 ‘‘God bless us, every profanity, maybe ____!’’ 45 Business-card no. 61 1040 fig. 47 Beam 62 Down, at the casino

63 No longer at the top of one’s game 64 Destruction 66 Aphrodite’s frequent companion 69 ‘‘Hustlers’’ star, familiarly 72 She/____ 73 Fictional band fronted by David St. Hubbins 74 Start of a playground rhyme 75 Not custom, as merchandise

76 ____ gras 77 Incline 79 Breezy, as a book 81 Incline 83 Word added to the Pledge of Allegiance in 1954 84 ‘‘____ everyone?’’ 86 Heart diagnostic, in brief 90 Heineken brand 91 Floral symbols of purity 93 See 85-Across

94 First-class 96 Mononymous Irish singer 98 Wafer brand 99 Tops 101 Pose 102 Member of a wet quintet 103 Word with witch or treasure 104 Repentant sort 105 Neuter 106 Hiatus 107 Prefix with friendly

Jan. 10, 2024 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 23 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

a team removes old electronics from a vehicle at the 2023 manatee county e-scrap and Hazardous Waste collection. some materials are collected for recycling, including the metals in electronics, and some are collected for safe disposal. islander file Photo: lisa neff

By Lisa Neff

Due for an update

It’s a decision 30 years in the making. That’s how the organizations dedicated to protecting Florida’s waters describe a proposed rule from the u.s. Environmental Protection Agency. The EPA in December proposed revising water quality standards for Florida, where existing standards are three decades old and deficient. neff under the federal clean Water Act, states and the feds set limits in bodies of water for pollutants that pose risks to human health. Over the past two years, the EPA has determined that Florida’s existing human health criteria are not protective of Florida’s designated uses and that additional human health criteria are needed for certain “priority toxic pollutants.” Florida’s standards were last updated in 1992, when the fish consumption rate was said to be 6.5 grams per day. That number was never adjusted and, according to the EPA, it “did not keep pace with the current practices of Florida residents, who appear to be eating far more fish than the 6.5-per-day rate indicates.” Meanwhile, new data have become available on toxic pollutants likely to be in Florida’s waters. What’s the connection between fish consumption and toxins? The EPA is “particularly concerned that people eating fish they catch for sustenance are being disproportionately impacted” by toxins in the fish. The EPA is now proposing new human health criteria for 37 priority toxic pollutants and revising water quality criteria for 36 pollutants. The EPA got a big push on its proposal from two conservation organizations — Waterkeepers Florida and the Environmental Defense Alliance. In January 2022, the groups petitioned the EPA, urging the agency to make a determination that new and revised water quality criteria are necessary under the Clean Water Act. Their petition, submitted in January 2022, is sharp:

Manatee County to hold E-scrap collection Jan. 27 How’s the New Year’s saying go? Out with the old and recycle the electronics? Manatee County, in collaboration with the island municipalities, will collect household hazardous waste and electronics in the annual E-scrap collection 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 27. The collection will be at Coquina Beach in Bradenton Beach. Where signs will direct motorists to the drop-off location. People can dispose of solvents, latex and oil-based paints, garden pesticides, waste oil, propane tanks, fluorescent bulbs, such mercury-containing devices as thermostats and thermometers, as well as pool chemicals.

“Despite numerous triennial reviews, the adoption of numerous new or revised water quality standards and the consideration of a rulemaking petition, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection has failed to adopt new or revised water quality criteria necessary to protect drinking water consumption uses and fish and shellfish consumption uses of navigable waters in Florida.… To ensure adequate protection of human health from the consumption of water, fish and shellfish in Florida, your immediate action is needed.” In December 2022, the EPA informed the organizations that “new and revised water quality standards are necessary” and that it would work on a new rule. After the EPA’s announced rule in December 2023, Jen Lomberk, chair of Waterkeepers Florida, said, People play pickleball dec. 28, 2023, on the courts at Holmes Beach city field, between 59th street, flotilla drive and 62nd street. islander Photo: ryan Paice

Old gasoline in containers and some household, auto and marine batteries also will be collected. Alkaline batteries, which can be disposed of with household garbage, will not be collected. Electronics to be collected include TVs, computer components, copiers, video and audio equipment and also small household items, such as microwaves, hair dryers, irons, cellphones, tablets, digital cameras and battery chargers. For more information, call Manatee County Solid Waste at 941-798-6761 or go online to mymanatee. org/escrap. — lisa neff

“This rulemaking is a critical step towards establishing water quality criteria in Florida that reflect the state’s rapidly changing environmental conditions and ensuring that locally caught fish and shellfish are safe to eat.” And our local Suncoast Waterkeepers, a member of the Florida group, stated, “At a time when a growing number of waters are failing to meet existing state standards, it is more crucial than ever that the criteria for toxic pollutants are as up-to-date as possible not only for the safety of our waterways, but for the health of Florida residents and visitors. This determination proves the power of citizen action and the collective strength of Waterkeepers Florida.” On the agenda The EPA will hold two public hearings on the proposed rule — Jan. 23 at 9 a.m. and Jan. 24 at 4 p.m. — that people can attend via Zoom. For details, go online to epa.gov/wqs-tech. To comment on the rule, go to regulations.gov and search for docket ID EPA-HQ-OW-2023-03780001.

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Page 24 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Jan. 10, 2024 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

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

LOST & FOUND

SERVICES

Paddle Boat: seats two, $100 firm. Palmetto. 813-727-8573.

lost: Blue Boat rope rug and turquoise rubber mat, dec. 17 in flood, 28th street and avenue B, Holmes Beach. 941-201-7574.

is Your Home or office in need of some cleaning? Well, i’m your girl! local, reliable, professional! Please, give me a call or text, 941-773 -0461.

outdoor taBle: round, tile top, castiron legs, 30-inch diameter. free. call 732618-6921. Paninni maKer: cuisinart, stainlesssteel, like new, $45. 941-920-2494. sPice racK, tHree-tier clear plastic, $20, side tables, brown with glass top, 2/$20. 941-920-2494. 941-920-2494. antiQue Partner desK: all wood, $500. inquire at the islander office. 941-7787978. 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 1-866-362-9821. (limited time offer)

Sandy’s Lawn Service Inc. ESTABLISHED IN 1983

Residential & Commercial Full-service lawn maintenance. Landscaping ~ Cleanups Hauling ~ Tree Trimming. LICENSED & INSURED

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

Andrew Chennault

CBC 1253471

FULLY LICENSED AND INSURED Island References Lic#CBC056755

TRANSPORTATION golf cart rentals: fun for residents and tourists! 212-941-2402. www.golfcartrentalami.com. BOATS & BOATING HaVe a Boat and wanna catch more fish, better bait or learn the water? 50-year local fisherman, your boat, my knowledge. captain chris, 941-896-2915. suncoast Bottom Painting: Professional bottom painting. mobile. call 941704-9382.

BicYcle rePairs: Just4fun at 5358 gulf drive can do most any bicycle repair at a reasonable cost. Pick-up and delivery available. 941-896-7884.

caPtain for Hire and boat caretaker services: if you need help with your boat on or off the water, call captain dan. uscg, retired. 772-486-8085. Boat sliP rental on 85th street, Holmes Beach. no water, no electric. $300 monthly, annual lease. 847-838-2448.

aPi’s drYWall rePair: i look forward to servicing your drywall repair needs. call 941524-8067 to schedule an appointment.

maKo 2010 18lts, 90-hp mercury, $8,500. call or text, 941-962-9984.

airPort rides: sarasota, st. Pete, tampa. call/text, Vita, 941-376-7555.

FISHING

clean tecH moBile detailing. at your location. cars, boats, rVs. call or text Billie for an appointment. 941-592-3482.

fun and fisH: skiff rental. 24-foot carolina skiff. live bait and fishing equipment included upon request. call 941-704-9382. HELP WANTED

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

rePorter Wanted: full- to part-time. Print media, newspaper experience required. apply via email with letter of interest to news@islander.org. KIDS FOR HIRE Kids for Hire ads are free for up to three weeks for island youths under 16 looking for work. ads must be placed in person at the islander office, 315 58th st. suite J, Holmes Beach. HEALTH CARE seasonal: retired rn with over 20 years’ experience can assist with your family members or yourself, can provide care and skilled needs. Please, contact me for further inquiries at 973-819-2824.

ANSWERS TO JAN. 10 PUZZLE

Pressure WasHing, PaVer sealing, driveway, roof, fence, pool area. also, window cleaning. licensed and insured. 941-5653931.

comPanion/HomemaKer: Honest and reliable offering help with running errands, grocery shopping, house sitting, pet and plant care, light cooking/cleaning, transportation. references available and licensed. call sherri, 941-592-4969.

noW Hiring HandYman: full-time professional services. $18 an hour and up, based on experience. call JayPros, 941962-2874.

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

cleaning: Vacation, construction, residential, commercial and windows. licensed and insured. 941-756-4570.

Don’t forget… You can read it all online at islander.org

Pc or tecH issues? not sure where to start? With years of experience, i’ll come to you with reliable solutions. contact gavin at 928-587-1309. www.gse.codes. Painting: interior/exterior: sarasota interior painting. call or text don, 941-9009398. We are the best high-end painting! Just ask our ami clients! i’m the owner and the painter. free estimates. fully insured licensed business. u Plus me llc: Provides quality coatings for pool decks, driveways, garage floors, patios. don’t miss out on our pro polishing services, concrete, terrazzo, travertine. 727623-5050. Business-to-Business Jd’s Window cleaning looking for storefront jobs in Holmes Beach. i make dirty windows sparkling clean. 941-920-3840. BeacH serVice air conditioning, heat, refrigeration. commercial and residential service, repair and/or replacement. serving manatee county and the island since 1987. for dependable, honest and personalized service, call Bill eller, 941-720-7411. cac184228. tHe islander offers the best results for your classified advertising dollar. We really work for you! submit your ad no later than noon monday on the website, islander. org. for monday holidays, the deadline is friday.

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

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

Jan. 10, 2024 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 25 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

I S L A N D E R C L A S S I F I E D S LAWN & GARDEN

RENTALS Continued

REAL ESTATE

connie’s landscaPing inc. residential and commercial. full-service lawn maintenance, landscaping, cleanups, hauling and more! insured. 941-778-5294.

rare oPPortunitY to rent all-inclusive executive office space in Holmes Beach. great frontage and advertisement visibility. great for realtors, contractors, accountants, lawyers, etc. electric and water included. two offices available. suite 101, approximately 200 sf. $700/month $500 deposit. suite 104, approximately 400 sf. $750/month. $500 deposit. 5386 gulf drive, Holmes Beach. contact Bill at 941-746-8666.

Winnie mcHale, realtor, 941-5046146. rosebay international realty inc. You need an aggressive and experienced realtor in today’s market! selling island homes, sarasota and Bradenton areas. multi-milliondollar producer! “selling Homes - making dreams come true.”

collins landscaPe ligHting: outdoor lighting, landscaping, irrigation services and maintenance. 941-279-9947. mJc24373@ gmail.com. HOME IMPROVEMENT Van-go Painting residential/commercial, interior/exterior, pressure cleaning, wallpaper. island references. Bill, 941-795-5100. www.vangopainting.net. griffin’s Home imProVements inc. Handyman, fine woodwork, countertops, cabinets and wood flooring. insured and licensed. 941-722-8792. island HandYman: i live here, work here, value your referral. refinish, paint. Just ask. JayPros. licensed/insured. references. call Jay, 941-962-2874. screening serVices: replace your old or ripped window, door or porch screens. many screen types available. retired veteran here to serve our community! free estimates, call lane, 941-705-5293. looKing for anY home improvement? Jrcc Home improvement, handyman service can get the job done. Please, contact us at 413-246-2410. We would love to help. soutHWest Home imProVement: michigan builder, quality work guaranteed. affordable, timely, within budget. call mike’s cell, 1-616-204-8822. Bmf interiors: Home repairs and more, no job too small. 786-318-8585. call HYdro clean. full-service pressure washing, sealing. Pavers, travertine and natural stone. Window washing too, up to three stories. call Jacob, 941-920-2094. RENTALS anna maria gulf beachfront vacation rentals. one- two- and three-bedroom units, all beachfront. www.amiparadise.com. 941778-3143. Perico island Patio home for rent. 3Br/2Ba, 30-day minimum. Privacy fence/ gate, two miles to ami. January, 2024 available. now leasing may through december, 2024. call or text, 859-771-6423.

aVailaBle feBruarY 2024: 4Br/2Ba old florida cottage in the heart of anna maria city. completely remodeled and tastefully decorated. last-minute cancellation. Walk to the many shops and restaurants in anna maria, one block to beach. $6,000 plus taxes and fees. call green real estate, 941-7780455. www.greenreal.com. across from BaY, two miles to anna maria. 2Br/1Ba fully furnished. available february and march. all utilities, washer/dryer. $3,900 month. family owned. 941-7731552. Winter season rental: available January-may, located in Holmes Beach, two blocks to beach. 2Br/1.5Ba, elev a t e d t o w n h o u s e , s l e e p s f o u r, n o pets. $4,200/month plus tax and fees. discount for more than one month. call anna maria realty, 941-778-2259. dina@annamariareal.com. seasonal: aVailaBle marcH-december. 2Br/2Ba tastefully furnished, close to beach, tennis, pickleball and boat ramp. Holmes Beach. 941-778-2919.

longBoat KeY moBile home lot. corner lot across the street from park amenities. $125,000. 941-744-6808. more Bang for Your BucK? it’s an old saying, but it’s still true when it comes to the islander. look for more online at islander. org.

You can read it all online at islander.org

PLACE CLASSIFIED ADS ONLINE AT ISLANDER.ORG Island Limousine and Airport Transportation

Prompt, Courteous Service U New Vehicles 941.779.0043

,IVERY )NSUREDs !IRPORT 0ERMITTED

snoWBirds! Holmes BeacH. gulffront 2Br/2Ba condo. January, february, march or april. Pool, elevator, garage. no smoking, no pets. 941-473-6941.

Send your fishing and sports reports to news@islander.org.

Share the fun.

“Anna Maria Island,” a signed pictorial history book of the island by Bonner Joy, is available for $20 at the islander office, 315 58th st., Holmes Beach, or by mail. Visit islander.org or call 941-778-7978. $20 plus postage, if mail order.

aVailaBle noW and season: 1Br/1Ba, seven-night minimum. carlesvacationrentals. com. special rates are available. 941-8071405.

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Page 26 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Jan. 10, 2024 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

isl

biz

By robyn murrell

Trolley grants ahead

Nonprofits on ami and in cortez will get a boost Jan. 25 when the Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce holds the annual Trolley Grant Awards at the Seafood Shack Bar & Grill 4110 127th St., Cortez. Since 2014, the program has helped Anna Maria and cortez nonprofits, providing more than $447,000 in grants. in 2023, 15 nonprofits received $29,341. This year’s recipients will be announced during the ceremony, which coincides with the chamber’s monthly business card exchange. Tickets cost $5 for members, $10 for nonmembers. Chamber president Terri Kinder told The Islander Jan. 3 that the grants are funded with revenue from the trolley advertising program. The program is a joint initiative with Manatee County government involving sales of ad space on the trolleys. Some money supports the trolley operation, which runs fare-free on AMI, and the chamber awards surplus ad revenue to local nonprofits. “We are pleased to provide this community service to island and cortez nonprofits,” Kinder said. For more information, contact the chamber at 941778-1541 or visit their website at annamariaislandchamber.org.

Thursday, Jan. 11 1l:30 a.m.-1 p.m.— Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce luncheon, gRub Tropical BBQ, 415 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Fee Applies. Information: 941-778-1541, info@amichamber.org.

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VACATION HOMES

The operator of a Sarasota late night spot for sushi and ramen has opened a location in Anna Maria. Woody Tajawandee, owner of Sushi Ramen in Sarasota, opened a second location Dec. 15 at 9801 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria. Tajawandee said Dec. 29, 2023, that the Anna Maria location had been in the works since December 2022, when a friend told him Anna Maria lacked a ramen restaurant. Tajawandee started scouting the island. “Then I decided, OK, let’s bring sushi and ramen,” he said. The restaurant offers spicy ramen, shoyu ramen with seafood, avocado krab salad, Thai tea and sushi, among other menu items. “I have special items on the Sarasota menu that I want to bring over here,” Tajawandee said. “I am waiting to hear from the customers about what choices

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nik adell waits for his food order dec. 27, 2023, at sushi ramen, 9801 gulf drive, anna maria. adell said it was his third visit since dec. 15, when the restaurant opened. islander Photo: robyn murrell

SAVE THE DATES Jan. 25, 5-7:30 p.m., Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce annual trolley grant awards and business card exchange, Seafood Shack Marina, Bar & Grill, 4110 127th St., Cortez. Feb. 15, 5 p.m., Manatee Chamber of Commerce annual dinner and awards, Bradenton Area Convention Center, 1 Haben Blvd., Palmetto. Send calendar listings to robyn@islander.org.

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they want to see on the menu.” Nik and Tiffany Adell lunched at the restaurant Dec. 27. “The sushi is good and it’s nice to have an alternative to the only other sushi restaurant on the north end, I’m happy it’s here,” Nik Adell said. The restaurant is open 11:30 a.m.-9:30 p.m. Tuesday-Thursday and 11:30 a.m.-10 p.m. FridaySunday. “I’m going to see how these two restaurants work and give them a chance to grow,” Tajawandee said. “Then I’m going to be expanding everywhere.” For more information, contact the restaurant at 941-900-2537 or sushiramenannamaria.com.

All in the family, Cortez Kitchen reopens

It’s news that’ll make the mullet jump. After closing its doors in the fall 2023, Cortez Kitchen has a reopening date — Jan. 14. It’s just in time for the winter tourist season, as property owner John Banyas forecasted when he spoke with The Islander in 2023. The outdoor restaurant, 4528 119th St. W., Cortez, closed Aug. 6 with the retirement of longtime leasee Joe Oekler. John Banyas told The Islander Aug. 4, 2023: “I’ve been wanting to take it over for quite a few years. I’ll close and renovate it, then reopen for the season.” The restaurant will reopen Jan. 14 with Doug Deming & the Jewel Tones, a local blues band, playing at 4 p.m. Assuming operations will be general manager Adam Sears and assistant GM Lily Banyas, John’s daughter. After months of renovations, the restaurant has new restrooms and kitchen equipment, updated floors and furnishings, a new menu and new staff. “The soft launch is nice because everything is brand new, we have a whole staff starting from scratch,” Sears said Jan. 5. “They have to get familiar with the new sales system and menu before the seasonal rush that’s just around the corner.” The menu will feature buffalo grouper bites, royal red shrimp, stone crab and short ribs. John Banyas, a fourth-generation Cortezian and commercial fisherman, also owns swordfish Grill, N.E. taylor Boatworks, cortez Bait & seafood fish house and a strip mall that houses the Cortez Seafood market, which he supplies from the fish house, and the post office, a barber shop and a breakfast-lunch café. Three years ago, Lily started working with her dad at swordfish Grill as assistant manager alongside Sears. With Cortez Kitchen being a staple to the comPlease, see bIZ KItCHen, next Page

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There was no available record of real estate sales for the last week of 2023.

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Jan. 10, 2024 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 27 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Chamber sets sights on 2024

AMI TOURISM: Endless Season

November tourist tax collections november 2019: $857,410 november 2020: $972,617 november 2021: $1,432,990 november 2022: $1,798,479 november 2023: $1,624,562 source: manatee county tax collector

November tourist tax falls By lisa neff islander editor

Gobble, gobble, gulp. November 2023 tourist tax collections registered a 9.67% decrease from November 2022. the manatee county tax collector’s office Jan. 3 released November 2023 collection numbers for the county tourist tax, also known as the resort or bed tax — it’s the 5% tax collected on overnight accommodations of six months or less. the second month of the 2023-24 fiscal year — which brings visitors taking a Thanksgiving holiday at the beach — showed $1,624,562 collected. In 2022-23, the same month’s collections totaled $1,798,479 — a record for the month. Holmes Beach topped collections on Anna Maria Island, generating $418,525, about 25.76% of the total. Anna Maria accounted for about 9.16% of the November collections, bringing in $148,759, and Bradenton Beach generated $77,499 or 4.77%. Some other numbers for November: unincorporated manatee county generated $683,769 or 42.09%; Bradenton generated $157,787 or 9.71%; Longboat Key generated $132,960 or 81.8%; Palmetto generated $5,281 or 0.33%. The collection fee or commission on the tax is 3%, leaving the net November collection for the Manatee County Tourist Development Council at $1,575,844.

By robyn murrell islander reporter

Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce president Terri Kinder is steering toward a more personable chamber in 2024. Kinder, in her sixth year as president, said she plans to prioritize in-person meetings with chamber members, moving away from emails and phone calls. The shift, she said, is part of a larger plan to provide more à la carte service, as well as boost advertising options and expand programs for the organization’s nearly 600 members. “We have so many things to offer and it’s not a onesize-fits-all kind of thing,” Kinder said dec. 27. “We want them to know here are all the things you can do through us and with us, and we want to help in whichever way makes sense for that particular business.” In 2023, the chamber welcomed 39 new members, as well as offered a series of events, including an awards gala, a golf tournament, Bayfest and a treelighting celebration. “These were huge events here in 2023 and a lot of fun for everyone,” Kinder said. Now her New Year’s resolution is for the chamber’s staff to get out of the office even more. “in 2024, we’re going to get out of the office and visit with our members more,” Kinder said. “We do it periodically but not as much as I would like us to.” She said face-to-face meetings are better for getting to know members and understanding their needs. For all of 2022-23, the tax generated more than $30 million. The tax dollars are not collected by municipalities and do not go directly to the locales where tourists visited. Instead, the TDC recommends how to spend the revenues to the county commission. under state law, the tax dollars must be used to boost and develop tourism, including tourism marketing and funding for the Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau, the Bradenton Area Convention Center and tourism-related entities such as Realize Bradenton and the Pittsburgh Pirates, as well as supporting projects, such as island beach renourishment and construction of the Anna Maria City Pier.

bIZ KItCHen from Page 26

munity, it was important for the father-daughter duo to keep the restaurant in the family. For more information, contact Cortez Kitchen at 941-900-1506 or go online at cortezkitchenfl.com.

Volunteer mary ann Brockman, former chamber president, assists a visitor dec. 27, 2023, at the office in Holmes Beach. islander Photo: robyn murrell

“We have member networking events but not all members can attend. I think it’ll be nice to put a name to a face. We can talk to them about what they would like to have,” Kinder said. For more information, contact the chamber at 941778-1541 or amichamber.org. some island and county elected officials have said a goal is to lobby the Florida Legislature to change how the tax dollars can be used. The December 2023 numbers will be released in early February. About the TDC The tourist development council recommends to county commissioners how to spend the tourist development tax — the 5% tax collected on overnight rentals of six months or less. TDT spending must boost and develop tourism. TDC members include County Commissioner Ray Turner, R-District 5, as chair; Bradenton Mayor Gene Brown; Palmetto Mayor Shirley Bryant; hoteliers Jiten Patel, Ed Chiles, Eric Cairns and Rahul Patel; and interested citizens Dave Wick and Norma Kennedy.

MIKE NORMAN REALTY

Also from the docks

Karen Bell and others posted on FaceBook in early January that she and a partner, longtime employee Joshua Wilkinson, are reopening the Boiler Room, best known for cheesesteak sandwiches. Bell is owner/operator of the star Fish co. restaurant and Market, A.P. Bell Fish Co. — a longtime fish house staple in the village — and also has a stake in Tide Tables restaurant, another Cortez hot-spot with views of the Intracoastal Waterway. Matt LaVallee closed the Boiler Room, which had first opened in the 1980s, in 2020 and the 5600 manatee Ave., Bradenton, property has remained vacant since. The social media notice said they expect to open in February.

Looking forward … 2024

EST. 1978

cortez Kitchen owner John Banyas and general manager adam sears, discuss Jan. 4 reopening plans for the dockside restaurant, 4528 119th st. W., cortez. islander Photo: robyn murrell

Jamming on the pier musician Howie Banfield, left, plays “a Pirate looks at forty” by Jimmy Buffett dec. 28, 2023, for the enjoyment of people dining, fishing and sight-seeing on the t-end of the anna maria city Pier. islander Photo: ryan Paice

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