The Islander Newspaper E-Edition Wednesday, Nov. 29, 2023 by The Anna Maria Islander Newspaper

VOLUME 32, NO. 6

’Tis the Season

NOV. 29, 2023 free

the Best News on anna maria island Since 1992 Astheworldterns 6 Holmes Beach sign ordinance advances. 4

Q&A 112923 4 Meetings 4

islander.org

Ferry tale launch

anna maria to explore Pine ave. prototype. 5

Opinions 6

10-20 YEARS AGO

Looking back. 7

center reviews improvements. 8 Business owners weigh in on Bridge St. resort. 9

Save the date. 10-11

Happenings What’s up on ami? 11-12 ame decks the halls. 13

Gathering. 14 GoodDeeds 15 Streetlife 16 america’s Best restaurants on ami. 18

get in the game. 19 Putting, pitching. 20 fishers recover. 21

THANKFUL

toP: the miss anna maria puts out a small wake Nov. 20 while reaching speeds of about 14 mph on its maiden voyage on the manatee river. far Left: manatee county commission chair Kevin van ostenbridge, r-district 3, speaks Nov. 20 ahead of the blessing of the fleet and launch of the county’s gulf island ferry service with the inaugural voyages of the downtown duchess and miss anna maria, twin 50-foot catamarans. Left: Holmes Beach commissioner dan diggins looks out at the anna maria city Pier Nov. 20 from the downtown duchess. islander Photos: ryan Paice PLeaSe, See ferry, Page 2

ANNA MARIA ISLAND

Fellowship feast

HB continues to pedal multimodal project. 22

NYT puzzle. 22 ‘Be a Santa’

Southtown season. 23

CLASSIFIEDS. 24-25

Isl Biz: 26-27 Wish Book Nov. 22, 2023

come true on AMI Look Making forwishesour Wish Book at islander.org. The holidays are the time to take a moment to oﬀer someone a smile or send a greeting, to give a hug or share words of praise. And, as we approach another year, we ﬁnd the added smiles, greetings and hugs gratifying. In The Islander Wish Book, we annually present the needs of organizations in the community. The groups that share their wishes help families and individuals, teach and mentor our children, care for sick animals and protect endangered species and more, all with the goal of making Anna Maria Island a better place to live. Your contribution to these organizations, how-

ever small or grand, is appreciated. Please, peruse The Islander Wish Book and select a gift — or more — to add to your shopping list. And to our generous sponsor advertisers, thank you for helping us to make this special section possible. We hope you receive the same return as we do each year from The Islander Wish Book — the joy of giving. Here’s wishing you the happiest holidays and peace, health and joy in 2024! — Bonner Joy and The Islander staff

volunteer Brent reed Nov. 23 helps serve a hungry thanksgiving day crowd a holiday meal. more than 15 volunteers, supervised by roser church hospitality director Pam Ladd, prepared and served the community dinner. islander Photo: robert anderson

Holmes Beach code officer Nate Brown, left, code administrator Kim charron, code clerk cristin carter and code officer Jayson clayton, right, hang tags Nov. 17 on a christmas tree to celebrate their donations to Home instead seniors through the Be a Santa to a Senior program. the Be a Santa gift program began in 2003 and has facilitated the distribution of 2.1 million gifts to more than 750,000 seniors. People can visit city hall, 5801 marina drive, to donate gifts to seniors through the program ahead of the holiday season. islander Photo: courtesy Holmes Beach

Page 2 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Nov. 29, 2023 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

manatee county commissioner Kevin van ostenbridge speaks Nov. 20 at the launch of the county’s gulf island ferry program and the inaugural voyages of the downtown duchess and miss anna maria ferries from downtown to the anna maria city Pier.

Some passengers stand and mingle while other sit in their seats Nov. 20 on the downtown duchess as the vessel makes its way from the anna maria waters to downtown Bradenton.

Ferry launches, will offer downtown Bradenton-AMI rides By ryan Paice islander reporter

Manatee County’s Gulf Island Ferry service will make a splash Dec. 8. Its two ferries shuttled their first passengers in a Nov. 20 cruise to Anna Maria Island for invited guests, local officials and media members. Manatee School of the Arts student Marley Holmes, a 10th-grader, opened a launch ceremony Nov. 20 on the Bradenton Riverwalk, overlooking the day dock where two 50-foot catamarans were tied up, by singing “God Bless America.” The Rev. Dirk Rodgers, senior pastor at Roser Memorial Community Church in Anna Maria, led an opening prayer and blessed the ferry fleet ahead of their inaugural cruises. Manatee County Commission Chair Kevin Van Ostenbridge, R-District 3, took the stage to say the

long-awaited ferry service would bring the county full circle, noting that Anna Maria Island was accessible only via boats before the original Cortez Bridge was built in the 1920s. “We’ve all wanted multimodal transportation and finally we’ve come this far,” Van Ostenbridge said. “Now, here we are, 100 years later and we have these two ferries, which we’re hoping to expand.” The vessels, the Downtown Duchess and Miss Anna Maria, launched from Bradenton’s Riverwalk around 1 p.m. and traveled west on the Manatee River. The Miss Anna Maria, which was shuttling mostly media members, turned around about halfway through the 40-minute trip and returned to downtown Bradenton. The Downtown Duchess completed its trip to its first stop, the Anna Maria City Pier.

While the vessel did not dock at the pier, which awaits the addition of two pilings to facilitate ferry docking, Capt. Josh Watson brought it close enough for passengers to wave to people on the pier. Anna Maria Mayor Dan Murphy, a passenger on the Downtown Duchess, wrote in a Nov. 21 text message to The Islander that he was impressed with the ride and hopeful for the ferry program’s future. “The trip to the city pier was great! The boats are very comfortable and they provided a fun ride to and from our historic city pier,” he wrote. “I’m hoping the service can expand to attract service workers at a reasonable rate and seven-day-a-week round-trip service to our city.” Cost-effective or free transportation for island workers was a central part of the county’s early messaging about the ferry service but it will launch with PLeaSe, See ferry, NeXt Page

Beach

Sounds

Apparel

BEACH SUPPLIES, AMI SOUVENIRS SWIMWEAR FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY

▼ Modern Chop Happy Hour 4-6 ▲ Martini Monday: Signature Martinis, $7, plus 1/2 price lite bites -- lounge only. ▼ Prime Rib Tuesdays, plus $3 Tacos and Margaritas -- lounge only. ▲ Wine Down Wednesday, 5O% OFF Wines by the Glass, plus Snow Crabs ▼ Live Maine Lobster Thursdays, plus Happy Hour all nite in the lounge.

1830 59th St W, Bradenton 11:30-9 Mon-Thu, 11:30-10 Fri-Sat 941.201.6006 Call to book private events. modernchopsteakhouse.com

Souvenirs + Shirts + Beach Supplies 5319 Gulf Drive Holmes Beach, Florida (next to Chamber of Commerce)

10% OFF

PURCHASE of $ 200 or more Excludes sales items

EXPIRES 12-6-23 • EXCLUDES SALE ITEMS

SHOP IN STYLE • WATERLINE PLAZA 5317 GULF DRIVE • HOLMES BEACH

Nov. 29, 2023 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 3 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

The Miss Anna Maria launches Nov. 20 from the Riverwalk Day Dock in downtown Bradenton during its inaugural voyage from its berth on the Manatee River to Anna Maria Island. Islander Photos: Ryan Paice

of the ferry service’s Dec. 8 launch. Falcione also discussed plans for the ferry service’s future. He said the county will explore grant opportunities in the hopes of funding a fully enclosed high-speed ferry to shuttle passengers between downtown Bradenton and the Anna Maria City Pier. The two existing vessels would be used to ferry passengers between the island stops, which will include Bradenton Beach’s Historic Bridge Street Pier and the North or South Coquina Boat Ramp in the future. “That would allow the current outdoor vessels to provide hop-on and hop-off service up and down the island,” Falcione said. “I think that’s really going to be our bread and butter: the hop-on and hop-off aspect.” Holmes Beach City Commissioner Dan Diggins, a passenger on the Downtown Duchess’s inaugural voyage, told The Islander Nov. 21 that the launch was a good starting point for the service.

ferry continued from page 2

limited hours and without a discounted rate for service workers. Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau executive director Elliott Falcione told The Islander Nov. 22 that the county plans to incorporate free ferry rides for workers after getting the service operational. He said the county is working with island employers to identify about 100 workers in need of transportation to and from the island. Once they have been identified, the ferry service will schedule free rides for them in the morning and at night. Murphy also told The Islander Nov. 20 that the city had yet to receive a permit application from the county to install two pilings at the city pier needed to dock the ferries. Falcione said the county would submit a permit for the work and install the pilings by Dec. 4-5, ahead

10 %

OFF tours & rentals

For

The Rev. Dirk Rodgers, senior pastor of Roser Memorial Community Church in Anna Maria, leads a prayer Nov. 20 at the launch of the Gulf Island Ferry service. Rodgers also blessed the fleet prior to the inaugural trip to Anna Maria Island.

use code: “Islander”

# ï ৼ ī0ï åoV Ü0 ï så

DOLPHIN TOURS

SANDBAR & EGMONT KEY TOURS

åö å0ï Ù **s0 ĕQ00s $Üöĵå0å

941-778-2288 bradentonbeachmarina.com

Nevertheless, he expressed concern about exposure to weather in the current vessels, s well as the potential lack of demand for a 40-minute ride to the island. Diggins said there are no existing locations where the ferry can dock in Holmes Beach and he encouraged the county to build a pier to accommodate the boats. Falcione stressed that the ferry service will be a work in progress. “To me, the initiative is only starting,” he said. “It’s just the start of a lot of hard work. We have to keep that mindset of fluidity, in regards to listening to consumers and their feedback, and adjust accordingly. Let’s see where this takes us over the next few years. We’re going to learn a lot.… But we’re excited to finally get this thing going.” Go online to islander.org to read more about the ferry service, including hours and costs.

Page 4 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Nov. 29, 2023 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

HB sign ordinance passes 1st reading By ryan Paice islander reporter

Long-planned changes to Holmes Beach’s sign ordinance are steps from adoption. City commissioners unanimously voted Nov. 14 to approve on first reading an ordinance to amend the municipality’s sign regulations. The city has been exploring changes to the regulations since its code became defunct last summer after controversy brought it into the spotlight. Last June, then-Manatee County Commissioner Carol Whitmore — a Holmes Beach resident — removed three campaign signs belonging to Jason Bearden, her opponent in the Republican primary election for the county’s at-large District 6 seat. Whitmore told police she removed the signs because they were posted more than 45 days before an election — a violation according to published city code. However, Bearden complained the code violated a U.S. Supreme Court ruling that content-based sign regulations violate First Amendment rights to free

Q&A 112923

By Lisa Neff

The Islander poll Last week’s question my favorite thanksgiving dessert is …

34%. Pumpkin pie. 14%. Key lime pie. 29%. Pecan pie. 23%. Other.

This week’s question Should services on ami be consolidated?

A. No. B. Maybe. C. Yes, some. D. Yes, all. To answer the poll, go online to islander.org.

speech. City attorney Erica Augello reviewed the code and found it at odds with the High Court’s 2015 ruling in Reed v. Town of Gilbert, Arizona, which established that “content-based regulation is presumptively unconstitutional.” The ruling also provided guidelines for contentneutral sign regulations, such as rules to regulate size, location and quantity, as well as those to distinguish between certain kinds of signage, like illuminated and unlighted signs. Since Augello’s review, the city has worked to revise its sign ordinance and remove content-based regulations. A couple of changes include: • Prohibiting temporary signage in the city’s R-1AA, R-1, R-2, R-3, R-4, A-1 and PUD zoning districts, other than at construction sites and properties with annual rentals or an active for-sale listing; • Allowing internally illuminated signage in the city’s A-1, R-2 and R-4 zoning districts, where it was previously prohibited. Commissioner Dan Diggins moved to approve the first reading and send the ordinance to the planning commission for review ahead of a final commission hearing and vote. Commissioner Pat Morton seconded the motion. The commission will meet next at 2 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 12, at city hall, 5801 Marina Drive. The meeting can be viewed at holmesbeachfl. org.

Check The Islander archives Look for the entire archive of The Islander dating to November 1992 in the UofF Florida digital newspaper collection at ufdc.ufl.edu.

Meetings

By Lisa Neff

ANNA MARIA CITY

Dec. 7, 6 p.m., commission. Dec. 8, 4 p.m., Santa Stops Here, City Pier Park. Dec. 15, commission candidate application deadline. Anna Maria City Hall, 10005 Gulf Drive, 941-708-6130, cityofannamaria.com. BRADENTON BEACH Dec. 6, 9:30 a.m., CRA. Dec. 7, 6 p.m., commission. Dec. 21, noon, commission. Bradenton Beach City Hall, 107 Gulf Drive N., 941-778-1005, cityofbradentonbeach.com. HOLMES BEACH Dec. 6, 10 a.m., parks and beautification. Dec. 6, 5 p.m., planning. Dec. 12, 2 p.m., commission. Dec. 13, 9 a.m., clean water. Dec. 14, 3:30 p.m., Sleigh Bell Social, city field. Holmes Beach City Hall, 5801 Marina Drive, 941-708-5800, holmesbeachfl.org. MANATEE COUNTY Dec. 4, 9:30 a.m., tourist development council, Center of Anna Maria Island, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria. Dec. 7, 9 a.m., commission (land use). Dec. 12, 9 a.m., commission. County administration building, 1112 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton, 941-748-4501, mymanatee.org. ALSO OF INTEREST Nov. 29, 10 a.m., District One Scenic Highway meeting, Sarasota-Manatee MPO Office, 8100 15th St. E., Sarasota. Dec. 1, 9 a.m., Bay Area Legislative Delegation, Bishop Museum of Science and Nature, 201 10th St. W., Bradenton. Dec. 25, Christmas, is a federal holiday. Government offices will be closed. Some government offices also will be closed Dec. 22 and some will be closed Dec. 26. Send meeting notices to calendar@islander.org.

#HECK OUT OUR UPCOM ING EVENTS ON INSTAGRAM ORIGINAL?SANDDOLLAR

3HOP THE ESSENCE OF !NNA -ARIA )SLAND

Island Shopping Center 5302 Marina Drive, HB (941) 527-6114

Nov. 29, 2023 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 5 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Anna Maria to explore prototype for Pine Ave. improvements By ryan Paice islander reporter

A small design might show the way for Anna Maria’s “reimagining” of Pine Avenue. Mayor Dan Murphy said Nov. 16 that, pending approval from the Florida Department of Transportation, he plans to recommend the city commission move forward with improvements on Pine Avenue from Gulf Drive to North Shore Drive. He said the work could serve as a prototype for plans for the length of Pine Avenue, as well as Magnolia and Spring avenues. The city budgeted $3,349,634.46 in fiscal 2023-24 to improve the three avenues. The funding includes $1,939,634.46 for a first phase, which would involve the installation of meandering paver sidewalks, as well as new and enhanced crosswalks and street lighting. The first phase largely will be funded with a $1,288,440 state appropriation awarded last year and $283,412.96 from the U.S. American Rescue Plan Act. Pine Avenue funding also includes a $1,410,000 state appropriation for a second phase of similar improvements along Magnolia and Spring. The city has issued three requests for proposals for the improvements along Pine Avenue but only one bidder — Sarasota-based C-Squared CGC — responded to each. Commissioners decided to fold improvements along Magnolia and Spring into the plans to expand the project and potentially attract more bidders. While a small prototype might not attract the same attention from bidders, Murphy said the stretch of Pine Avenue from Gulf Drive to North Shore Drive offers a good test drive for the improvement plans. He said improving the block also would limit the impact of construction along the corridor. A downside, however, is the recommendation could cost the city more than if it pursued one RFP for the whole project, according to Murphy.

a plan to improve a stretch of Pine avenue in anna maria from gulf drive to North Shore drive might serve as a prototype for other improvements. islander courtesy image

Murphy said if the city received DOT approval for the prototype, he would bring a recommendation and projected cost to commissioners. Commission Chair Mark Short said the prototype would allow the city to “feel out” a contractor. Nevertheless, Short said he would need to weigh the risks of increasing costs and issuing another small RFP, which might not attract interest from bidders. Resident Lynn French said during public comment that she supported a test run. She said stormwater

drainage along Spring Avenue works “great” and she doesn’t want the city to mess it up. Resident Pat Olesen asked if the city planned to schedule brainstorming sessions for improvements along Magnolia and Spring. Murphy said the city would have a series of public meetings to discuss plans. The city commission will meet next at 6 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 7, at city hall, 10005 Gulf Drive. The meeting also will be on Zoom.

Anna Maria purchases building for MCSO, public works The city of Anna Maria’s real estate portfolio is growing. Mayor Dan Murphy announced in a Nov. 13 email to city commissioners that the city had completed its $1 million purchase of the property at 307 Pine Ave. The one-story, 1,920-square-foot property currently houses the public works and building departments. The city plans to move the building department to city hall, 10005 Gulf Drive, so the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office substation can move into the annex with public works. The building was owned by Cresent Real Estate Holdings — owned by Anna Maria resident “Lizzie” Vann — and was leased for $55,405.92 a year. However, the city’s lease was set to end on May 31, 2026.

Vann offered to sell the property to the municipality for $1 million but wanted to close quickly on the sale. In October, commissioners unanimously approved the $1,000,000 purchase, which a city-hired appraiser valuated at $1,100,000 in September. The city funded the purchase from a few sources, including: • $481,851 from the $981,000 contingency fund; • $268,149 from the city’s $8,031,490.64 capital outlay budget; • $250,000 earmarked for land acquisition. — ryan Paice

Potluck in paradise People eat and mingle Nov. 19 under the shade sails of city Pier Park, 101 N. Bay Blvd., anna maria, during thanksLiving, an annual community potluck dinner that began in 2019 to kick off the holiday season and celebrate thanksgiving. islander courtesy Photos

People take plates of food Nov. 19 during thanksLiving in anna maria, where attendees brought their own beverages and appetizers to share with other community members.

NOW OFFERING PERMANENT JEWELRY!

Make the most of the holidays Is your business ready to make the most of the holiday season? Improve your odds of success with The Islander readers looking to shop and dine, as well as seeking indoor and outdoor fun. For ad info, call or text 941-778-7978.

Page 6 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Nov. 29, 2023 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Opinion

Our

Good news, bad news

For good news, we have the long-awaited, much hyped solution to all our traffic woes launching in days — not years — on Dec. 8. The Gulf Island Ferry service is not really all we wished for, not really a water taxi and not really the solution to our traffic woes but it is with great anticipation that we await a boat ride that takes us from one end of Anna Maria Island to the other and to downtown Bradenton for a low fare. I’m guessing the sunset rides will be wildly popular, when passengers can choose to disembark from the island or Bradenton for happy hour or early dinner and still have time to hop a ride back. The bad news about the ferry is that it needs to be in service more hours and more days and serve workers. To function as a water taxi, similar to the service I observed in Baltimore harbor, the boats should run more hours per day and seven days a week — similar to the island trolley that MCAT operates. We should be able to hop on and off at more than three ports and the ferries need to be faster. At least the Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau, the agency guiding the ferry service for Manatee County, is planning a faster boat to serve the Manatee River route from downtown Bradenton to the Anna Maria City Pier, with the two slow ferries launching Dec. 8 then running the island-hopper route. Like the saying goes, they need a bigger boat — or at least one that can weather light storms — and a group of smaller boats that can zip around and visit smaller docks for pickup, drop-off and transfers. But, hey! It’s a start. I’m guessing it will be a popular attraction. And maybe businesses will get in the spirit and sponsor tokens for customers ferrying to their businesses, or theme parties — like Privateers night, when the fares to local party hotspots benefit the nonprofit that cares for community and kids. Meanwhile, as the holidays approach, we’re keeping eyes on the multistory hotel-restaurant-retail shops proposed for Bridge Street in Bradenton Beach. Hint: The developer has “friends” posting threats on social media — including an alternate plan for exaggerated numbers of homes with huge numbers of bedrooms and the illusion of downsizing from 106 rooms — not by reducing bedrooms — by combining Hidden agendas I am writing to clarify misinformation stated by the same number of rooms into larger suites. And we’ll be bird-dogging the Florida Legislature state Rep. Will Robinson Jr., R-Bradenton, state Sen. Jim Boyd, R-Bradenton, and County Commission and the plans to take over home rule on AMI. Chair Kevin Van Ostenbridge, R-District 3, and to Yep ... We’re on the job. Ho! Ho! Ho! — Bonner Joy, news@islander.org provide insight into the hidden agenda believed to be the potential motivation for their strong arm attempt to consolidate the three cities on Anna Maria Island. We have often heard the phrase “follow the money” when diagnosing political decisions which seemingly NOV. 29, 2023 • Vol. 32, No. 6 defy logic. I believe this to be the case in the consolidation ▼ Publisher, Co-editor effort. Bonner Joy, news@islander.org ▼ Editorial The overreach of political power began with the editor Lisa Neff, lisa@islander.org debate on the subject of parking and a parking garage robert anderson, robert@islander.org in Holmes Beach between Van Ostenbridge and the Joe Bird, editorial cartoonist Kevin cassidy, kevin@islander.org city of Holmes Beach following a reduction of street Jack elka, jack@jackelka.com parking during the pandemic and following the county Brook morrison, brook@islander.org commission’s closing the Manatee Public Beach and ryan Paice, ryan@islander.org it’s 400-plus beach parking places in Holmes Beach. ▼ Contributors Karen riley-Love This period provided the time for the city to evaluJacob merrifield ate and address a decade of public health and safety capt. danny Stasny, fish@islander.org concerns which could be improved upon, by no longer Nicole Quigley ▼ Advertising Director providing unlimited beach access parking. toni Lyon, toni@islander.org Holmes Beach continues to provide excessive ▼ Webmaster Wayne ansell beach parking as documented by the police chief, ▼ Office Manager, Lisa Williams info@, accounting@, classifieds@, including at peak holiday periods. subscriptions@islander.org The city has clearly marked all available parking ▼ Distribution spots on site and posts on it’s website, directions to urbane Bouchet ross roberts available spots. beach access signs have been installed Judy Loden Wasco at all Gulf Drive beach access streets with in Holmes (All others: news@islander.org) Beach. Single copies free. Quantities of five or more: 25 cents each. Terry Schaefer, Holmes Beach commissioner ©1992-2023 • Editorial, sales and production ofﬁces: Editor’s note: See the full text of Commissioner 315 58th St., Suite J, Holmes Beach fL 34217 Schaefer’s letter online at islander.org. WeBSite: islander.org

Opinion

Your

text or call: 941-778-7978

Tea-rriﬁc work

Women of Roser Guild and the Migrant Sewing Circle were happy to attend the annual Migrant Tea of Church Women United. The event was held Nov. 17 at Trinity United Methodist Church in Bradenton and gifts were made of new clothes, shoes, layettes, knit hats for babies, toys and more than 200 handmade children’s quilts. The program included many thanks from officials who are a part of the School District of Manatee County Migrant Education Program, children from Myakka City Elementary School and high school senior Jocelyn Lerna. Migrant students are in 18 elementary, six middle, six charter and five high schools in Manatee. Families have traveled from Michigan, Texas, North Carolina, Maryland and New Jersey. They will pick the tomatoes, strawberries, cucumbers, watercress and peppers that we enjoy. Church Women United is happy to support these students. Peggy Nash, Anna Maria our theme, “We’re glad You’re Here,” originated in the 1980s with a restaurant trade group. We hope everyone feels welcome on ami. — the islander

Visit islander.org for the best news on AMI.

Nov. 29, 2023 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 7 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Hot wheels an “automobile” crowd gathers at cortez Beach on anna maria island in 1925. these days, autos are prohibited on the beach, as well as bikes and atvs, with the exception of the units driven by emergency personnel and anna maria island turtle Watch. islander Photo: courtesy manatee county Public Library Historical image collection

Silver and sand flags adorn trailers at an airstream travel trailer rally held in January 1965 at coquina Beach in Bradenton Beach.

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

10&20 years ago

From the Nov. 26, 2003, issue

• A newly elected Bradenton Beach City Commission fired city attorney Alan Prather, planner Bill Brisson and removed planning and zoning board members Pete Milazzo and Susan Kehne. Commissioners also placed department heads on probation pending performance evaluations. • An Anna Maria Elementary construction team received news from the Manatee County school district superintendent that work on a new school building would fall within budget. • Members of the Barrier Island Elected Officials called on Manatee County to share a portion of a proposed impact fee with their cities. Anna Maria Mayor Suelynn said mainland developments could have serious impacts on the island cities.

From the Nov. 27, 2013, issue

• A former Holmes Beach man was sentenced in federal court to six years in a federal prison and ordered to pay $17.6 million in restitution for health care fraud and false tax returns. • A five-year quest to decide whether a 22-yearold Tampa woman took her life in a Bradenton Beach motel room or she was murdered ended with the Florida State Attorney’s Office announcing there was no evidence of homicide in the death of Sheena Morris. • Anna Maria Mayor Suelynn halted work at a new Pine Avenue/Bay Boulevard park until the city commission could vote on a site plan. • A man who jumped off the Anna Maria Island Bridge to poach from crab traps in the bay caused the bridge’s closure and traffic delays. — Lisa Neff

We’d love to mail you the news!

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!)

BULK MAIL U.S. SUBSCRIPTION (allow 2 weeks for every week’s delivery)

❑ 3-6 Months: $48 ❑ 1-3 Months: $36 ❑ 1 year: $76 U.S. FIRST CLASS AND CANADIAN MAIL SUBSCRIPTION ❑ 3-6 Months: $120 ❑ 1-3 Months: $70 ❑ 1 year: $180 ❑ Single Issue: $5 FIRST CLASS MAIL, U.S. ONLY, maximum four weeks

Christmas in Cortez SATURDAY, DECEMBER 9 1 - 4 PM Florida Maritime Museum 4415 119th Street West Cortez, FL

MAIL TO: ______________________________________________________________ ADDRESS _____________________________________________________________ CITY ____________________________ STATE __________ ZIP _________________ Credit card: ❏ d ❏ u No. ____________________________________________ Name shown on card: _____________________________ Exp. Date ___________ Credit card billing address: ______________________________________________ MAIL START DATE: _____________________________________________________

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

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

FREE Parking, Admission & Activities

Crafts Games Bounce houses Obstacle course Santa meet-and-greet Event Sponsors

Page 8 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Nov. 29, 2023 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Community center reviews needs, improvements By Ryan Paice Islander Reporter

The Center of Anna Maria Island has undergone several infrastructure improvements in recent years. The community center has spent $351,942 over the past two fiscal years to improve the facility at 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria, for guests, members and staff, according to executive director Chris Culhane. In fiscal 2021-22, the nonprofit spent $144,458 on capital improvements. In fiscal 2022-23, the nonprofit Culhane spent another $207,484 on capital improvements — almost as much as the net income the year before — amounting to a significant portion of the center’s $257,887 deficit for the year. Those funds contributed to several changes around the center facility, including a facility-wide paint job, installation of a new propane tank and flooring throughout the first floor, not including the gym, as well as the addition of new exercise equipment. The nonprofit remodeled much of its foyer and installed new countertops and paneling at the front desk, a coffee and beverage station, as well as all new computers and phone systems. In the kitchen, the center added two new refrigerators — worth about $5,000 each, according to Culhane — and a new ice machine. Outside, the center added a workout area accessible via a small garage door so people can exercise in the fresh air. The nonprofit also is working to install a community garden between parking spots along the east side of the facility. Culhane said the Anna Maria Island Garden Club would help maintain the planter beds, which are accessible to the public. Several improvements have been made to the children’s areas throughout the facility, such as a new shade sail above the outdoor playground, new gaming consoles for entertainment systems and new cubbies for kids in the nonprofit’s youth programs. On the second floor, the nonprofit remodeled its bathrooms and added showers in compliance with the U.S. Americans with Disabilities Act, which ensures accessibility for disabled people. Anna Maria City Commissioner Charlie Salem, a member of the center, told The Islander Nov. 17 during a break in his workout that he was most impressed by the facility’s remodeled bathrooms. “I love the bathrooms, they really did a nice job,” Salem said. “It’s nice that they added showers.” While the community center has seen many improvements in recent years, more are yet to come. Culhane said the nonprofit is seeking grant opportunities to fund the purchase of 12 AC units, which is projected to cost about $84,000 before installation. “We’re hoping that they will be 100% donated,” he said. Once the AC units are obtained, a $50,000 contribution from the city of Anna Maria will fund the

Center of Anna Maria Island employees Alex Miner, left, and Morgan Blackburn, right, smile Nov. 17 from the front desk of the community center, which has been renovated with new counters, paneling, computers and phone systems in past years. Islander Photos: Ryan Paice

The beginnings of a community garden are underway Nov. 17 between parking spots along the east side of the center.

A shade sail hangs Nov. 17 above the community center’s outdoor playground.

The Center of Anna Maria Island, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria.

installation. Culhane added that the nonprofit also plans to explore changes to its outdoor tennis area, where three courts are enclosed within fencing. The courts cannot be resurfaced due to issues with the underlying foundation and one side of the fencing needs replacement after it was damaged by Hurricane Idalia and removed earlier this year, according to Culhane.

“This is our next big project,” Culhane said. “The strategic planning committee is working on what’s going to be the best use for this. It could be pickleball, tennis, or maybe some sort of mixed-use area.” However, as of Nov. 17, the center had no improvement plans. People can learn more about the community center on its website, centerami.org or contact the center at 941-778-1908.

3 seek Anna Maria’s 2 vacant commission seats By Ryan Paice Islander Reporter

At least three residents are ready to claim a seat on the Anna Maria City Commission. As of Nov. 20, Kathleen Morgan-Johnson, Pat Olesen and Sharon Wisniewski submitted applications seeking to succeed Robert Kingan and Deanie Sebring. Sebring resigned and moved away in October. Her seat remains vacant until a successor is chosen to serve the remainder of her term, through December 2024. Meantime, no one qualified to run for the seat occupied by Kingan, Morganwho elected not to run for a second Johnson term in November. His term will expire in December and his successor will step into a full two-year term. Unlike Kingan, Commissioners Charlie Salem

and Jonathan Crane sought reelection as incumbents and were the only people to qualify for two of three commission seats available in this year’s election. There has not been a contested Olesen municipal election in Anna Maria since 2017, when four candidates battled it out for three seats on the commission. The process to find and appoint successors began Nov. 1 as the city started taking applications and forum questions from the public. Wisniewski The window to apply will close Friday, Dec. 15, although the public will have until Wednesday, Dec. 27, to submit questions. The questions will be provided in advance to applicants, so they can prepare for a forum at 6 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 11, at city hall, 10005 Gulf Drive.

The forum will allow applicants to introduce themselves and answer questions, similar to a process used in January to appoint Salem, who filled a seat vacated by Carol Carter. However, the upcoming forum will allow attending members of the public to ask the applicants live questions. The commission — which will have three members by Jan. 11 — will vote to appoint two members at 6 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 25. Whoever receives the most votes will choose between the one- and two-year terms, leaving the other term to the applicant with the second-most votes. To qualify for a commission seat, a candidate must have maintained a residency within the city for at least two years, be a qualified voter of the city, and cannot be employed by the city or hold any other municipal office. City commissioners receive a $4,800 annual salary.

Nov. 29, 2023 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 9 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Bridge Street business owners weigh in on proposed resort By robert anderson islander reporter

Bradenton Beach business operators are seeking harmony and growth. So they are having conversations about the impact of a proposed resort on the city’s quaint, historic commercial district. Developers have proposed a 106-room, 206,987square-foot resort involving properties on Bridge Street, Gulf Drive and Third Street South. Some are owned or leased by developer Shawn Kaleta and the Najmy-Thompson PL law firm, others are registered to Bradenton Beach Commissioner Jake Spooner. The proposal, pending approvals at city hall, has stirred a mix of excitement and concern in the city, including among those doing business on Bridge Street. Some business people said they see the development as an economic boon. Others worry about a shift in the character and atmosphere of Bridge Street. Amanda Escobio, owner of Sea-renity Beach Spa and Bout-tiki, 112 Bridge St., expressed her opinion about the resort’s size and intensity in a Nov. 22 interview with The Islander. “I am looking forward to seeing the blight on the corner go away and really having a nice anchor there for the street,” she said, referring to derelict buildings on Bridge Street that previously housed the Freckled Fin Restaurant and the Island Time Inn, a motel. She continued, “At the same time, I think the city and the developer and the locals and the merchants still have quite a bit of work to do to come up with a realistic plan for build-out.” Escobio, celebrating a 12th year in operation on Bridge Street, said there is concern among business owners and residents about the size of the proposed hotel. “Bigger isn’t always better, better is better,” she said. “There’s a lot of fear. We have a great thing going in Bradenton Beach. It’s our neighborhood. It’s our home. It’s our livelihood.” Walter Loos, a partner in Island Scoops, Wilders’s Slice of AMI and Island Donut Co. in the Bridge Street district, said he wants a development but development

derek Williams, owner of the drift-in, 120 Bridge St., Bradenton Beach, speaks Nov. 1 before the city’s planning and zoning board about a proposed resorthotel development. He told them, “i am in favor of some progress out here. …the details matter in this conversation. So anything we can do to make a good decision and support and build our community is important.” islander Photo: robert anderson

that fits the community. “The development, overall, is obviously positive and it’s going to happen but we would like to have an intelligent and full conversation about what that should look like and how it’s going to end up,” Loos said. “From my perspective, a lot of work and time has been put into the comprehensive plan,” he continued. “Before we go superseding that through a planned development, we should understand some of the larger

development pressures that we are all under.” Loos said his main concerns are a lack of parking and congestion. The developers are asking the city for relief associated with parking. City staff has said 133 spaces would be required to accommodate a 106-room development. However, the developer is requesting a 29.1% parking exception, lowering the number of required spots to 99. Of those 99 spaces, some public spaces — those owned by the city along Third Street — are included as part of the design. “Whether you’re an employee or a visitor or if you live here, everyone should be considered in those conversations,” Loos said. “Before we decide what building we are going to construct, the No. 1 thing that affects our quality of life is transportation.” Sherman Baldwin, president of Tevatan Corp., the parent company for the Bridge Street Bait Shop, Paradise Boat Tours and Miss Clara Boat Tours, also shared his opinion on the proposed project. “Obviously, there is a balance between the tranquility that local residents have a right to, as well as business growth that is good for the tax base of Bradenton Beach. We have to walk a fine line,” Baldwin said. “I generally am open to getting more people to Bradenton Beach. I think it’s one of the most beautiful places on the planet,” he added. “This is a big deal, however, and I just think we need to have more information before we can all get behind it, but my inclination is to support something like this.” The resort proposal is before the city commission again at 6 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 7, at city hall, 107 Gulf Drive N. The commission is set to hold a public hearing and a final reading of an ordinance to create a planned development overlay district to facilitate the project without subjecting it to standard zoning requirements and allowing for large scale, site-specific, mixed-use land development.

Islander archive? Look online at ufdc.uﬂ.edu.

CASTNER & CASTNER

��

�

��

LUXURY FURNISHINGS, DESIGN & INTERIORS

�

��

"Thank you to the Castner Staff for a great job on our last purchase for our home! We have been using Castner & Castner Furniture for over ten years and have been very satisfied with the service before, during and after the sale."

Maureen & Ernie

www.castnerandcastner.com

941-795-1297

5210 Cortez Rd. W. Bradenton, FL

SARASOTA GEM We have been a new and used GEM dealer for 20 years. We welcome our long-time friends and encourage new patrons from Anna Maria Island to shop here!

� 4 AND 6 PASSENGER OPTIONS � NEW & PRE-OWNED GEM VEHICLES IN STOCK! Sarasota GEM Car 6826 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34231 941-922-0711 | SarasotaMitsubishiCars.com

��

�� !"�#��$%��&� �� '�(�%� �!"�#��$%��&� (!��""�)!!#� ��'�(�%� *!�%�&�'��"%��

(!��""�)!!#� *!�%�&�'��"%��

�!��"%�� (��!+�

Page 10 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Nov. 29, 2023 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Getting around artists Sandy Staley, seated left, Wendell graham and Kathy Lee Patterson participate in a “paint around” Nov. 10 outside the artists’ guild gallery, 5414 marina drive, Holmes Beach, during the Holmes Beach Night market. the next market night will be friday, dec. 1, which also is the night of the tree-lighting celebration in the city center. islander Photo: Selene Schulz

compiled by Lisa Neff, calendar@islander.org

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Beach. Jan. 20-21, Coquina Beach Winter Arts and Crafts Market, Bradenton Beach. Feb. 9-10, Feed the Peeps Arts and Crafts Market, Anna Maria. March 2-3, The Invitational, Holmes Beach. March 8-9, Feed the Peeps Arts and Crafts Market, Anna Maria. April 6-8, Coquina Beach Spring Arts and Crafts Market, Bradenton Beach. March 14-16, Friends of the Island Library Jewelry Sale, Holmes Beach.

ON AMI Saturday, Dec. 2 6-10 p.m. — Anna Maria Island Privateers Christmas at the Drift In, 120 Bridge St., Bradenton Beach. Info: amiprivateers.wildapricot. org. ONGOING ON AMI Throughout November, “Giving Thanks” exhibit, Artists’ Guild Gallery, 5414 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-7786694. Throughout December, “Holiday Decor” showcase, Artists’ Guild Gallery, 5414 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Info: 941-7786694. ONGOING OFF AMI Throughout November, “From There to Here,” paintings by Rick Cardoza, Island Gallery and Studios, 456 Old Main St., Bradenton. Information: 941-778-6648. Through Jan. 7, “Guercino’s Friar with a Gold Earring” exhibit, the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, 5401 Bay Shore Road, Sarasota. Fee applies. Information: 941-360-7390, ringling.org. Through April 28, “Dali and the Impressionists,” the Dali Museum, 1 Dali Blvd., St. Petersburg. Fee applies. Information: 727-823-3767. Through June 23, “Mountains of the Mind: Scholars’ Rocks from China and Beyond” exhibit, the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, 5401 Bay Shore Road, Sarasota. Fee applies. Information: 941-360-7390, ringling.org. First Fridays, 6-9:30 p.m., Village of the Arts First Fridays Artwalk, 12th Street West and 12th Avenue West, Bradenton. Information: villageofthearts.com. Second and fourth Saturdays, 2-4 p.m., Music on the Porch jam session, presented by the Florida Maritime Museum and Cortez Cultural Center, 4415 119th St. W., Cortez. Information: ﬂoridamaritimemuseum.org. SAVE THE DATE Dec. 9, Anna Maria Island/Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau Simply Queen concert, Anna Maria. Jan. 13, Anna Maria Island/Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau Foghat concert, Anna Maria. Jan. 21, Island Players’ “Communicating Doors” auditions, Anna Maria. Jan. 26, Anna Maria Island/Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau Croce Plays Croce concert, Anna Maria. Feb. 23, Anna Maria Island/Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau Guess Who concert, Anna Maria. April 6, Anna Maria Island/Bradenton Area Convention and

KIDS & FAMILY Visitors Bureau Al Jardin concert, Anna Maria.

ON AMI

MARKETS & SALES ON AMI Friday, Dec. 1 10 a.m.-5 p.m. — Mistletoe Market, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Information: 231-350-8277. Saturday, Dec. 2 10 a.m.-5 p.m. — Mistletoe Market, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Information: 231-350-8277. ONGOING ON AMI Tuesdays, 8:30 a.m.-2 p.m., Anna Maria Farmers Market, City Pier Park, Pine Avenue and Bay Boulevard. Anna Maria. Information: 941-708-6130. Through April 2024, select dates — including Dec. 1, Dec. 5-8 — Artists’ Guild Gallery Paint the Town sidewalk demonstrations and sales events, 5414 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Info: 941-778-6694.

Friday, Dec. 1 5-8 p.m. — Holmes Beach Holiday Open House, Marina and Gulf drives in the city center. Information: 941-778-1541. 6 p.m. — Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce Tree Lighting, 5313 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-1541. Saturday, Dec. 2 10:30 a.m.-2 p.m. — Lester Family Fun Day, Center of Anna Maria Island, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria. Info: 941-778-1908. 3-9 p.m. — Christmas on Bridge Street celebration, Bridge Street, Bradenton Beach. Information: lovebradentonbeach.com. 6 p.m. — Holiday lighted boat parade, Intracoastal Waterway from Longboat Pass to the Bradenton Beach Marina, passing the Historic Bridge Street Pier. Information: boat-parade.com. Tuesday, Dec. 5 10 a.m. — Family storytime, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341. ONGOING ON AMI

Select Thursdays — including Dec. 14 — Shark Pups and Grownups preschool program, Mote Marine Science Education and Thursdays through December, after 5 p.m., Thursdays in Para- Outreach Center on Anna Maria City Pier, Pine Avenue and Bay dise — Christmas Edition, Bridge Street, Bradenton Beach. Informa- Boulevard, Anna Maria. Information: mote.org. tion: lovebradentonbeach.com. ONGOING OFF AMI Select Fridays — Dec. 1, Jan. 12, Feb. 9, March 8, April 12 First Wednesdays, SOAR in 4 family night, the Bishop Museum, — 5:30-7:30 p.m., Holmes Beach Night Market, Holmes Beach. 201 10th St. W., Bradenton. Fee applies. Information: 941-746-4131, Information: 941-778-6694. Saturdays through May 7, 9 a.m.-2 p.m., Bradenton Market, bishopscience.org. Third Fridays, Teen Nights, the Bishop Museum, 201 10th St. Old Main Street, Bradenton. Information: 941-301-8445. W., Bradenton. Fee applies. Information: 941-746-4131. SAVE THE DATE Second Saturdays, Quest for kids, the Bishop Museum, 201 Jan. 13-14, Anna Maria Winter Arts and Crafts Market, Holmes 10th St. W., Bradenton. Fee applies. Information: 941-746-4131, bishopscience.org. ONGOING OFF AMI

SAVE THE DATE Music Lessons: Guitar, Piano, Ukulele, Saxophone and Drum Used & Consigned Musical Instruments Open JAM 1st Wednesdays

941.896.9089

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

Dec. 8, Santa in the Park and Holiday Walk of Treasures, Anna Maria. Dec. 9, Winter Wonderland Celebration, Bradenton. Dec. 9, Florida Maritime Museum’s Christmas in Cortez, Cortez. Dec. 9, Anna Maria Island Privateers Christmas Parade and party, islandwide. Dec. 13-17, Palma Sola Botanical Park’s Winter Nights Under the Lights, Bradenton. Dec. 14, Sleigh Bell Social, Holmes Beach.

CLUBS & COMMUNITY ON AMI

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

Thursday, Nov. 30 1 p.m. — Sunshine Stitchers, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341. Friday, Dec. 1 2 p.m. — Paper crafting, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341. Saturday, Dec. 2 2 p.m. — Paper crafting, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341.

Massage Therapy | Acupuncture | Yoga

ONGOING ON AMI

Holistic wellness center and spa

2219 Gulf Drive N | Bradenton Beach

941.778.8400 | www.alunawellness.com

Most Saturdays, 8:30 a.m., Kiwanis Club of Anna Maria Island

Island happenings

Nov. 29, 2023 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 11 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

meeting, Bradenton Beach City Hall, 107 Gulf Drive N., Bradenton Beach. Information: 941-778-1383. Tuesdays, noon, Rotary Club of Anna Maria Island meeting, Bridge Street Bistro, 111 Gulf Drive S., Bradenton Beach. Information: 941-718-5583.

Simply Queen tribute band set for center stage Dec. 9

ONGOING OFF AMI

Guaranteed to blow your mind? Simply Queen, a Queen tribute band, will kick off the Center of Anna Maria Island’s 2023-24 concert season Saturday, Dec. 9. Rick Rock, Freddie Mercury impersonator, fronts the band. The concert series, in partnership with the Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau and the Manatee County Tourist Development Council, which continues into April, also will feature performances by Foghat, A.J. Croce, the Guess Who Alumni and Al Jardine. Concerts at the center, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria, will begin with an opening act at 7 p.m. Doors open at 6 p.m. “We absolutely love hosting this series every year,” said center executive director Chris Culhane. For more information, including tickets, go online to centerami.org, email info@centerami.org or call 941-778-1908.

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 Dec. 7, Cortez Village Historical Society Coffee in Cortez, Cortez. Dec. 19, Cortez Village Historical Society meeting, Cortez. Jan. 24, Feb. 21, March 22, Annie Silver Community Center community suppers, Bradenton Beach.

LESSONS & LEARNING ON AMI Saturday, Dec. 2 10 a.m.-1 p.m. — Ask a Master Gardener, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341. Monday, Dec. 4 11 a.m. — Marine Heritage program, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341.

Cortez group brewing event

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

SPORTS & GAMES ONGOING ON AMI

rick rock of Simply Queen. islander courtesy Photo

Most Wednesdays, 1 p.m., mahjong club beginners, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778- 10299 Ninth Ave. NW, Bradenton. Information: 941-742-5923, 6341. mymanatee.org. Most Fridays, 11:30 a.m., mahjong club experienced players, CALENDAR NOTES Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941778-6341. KEEP THE DATES Mondays, 10 a.m., morning yoga, Island Library, 5701 Marina Through Nov. 30, Atlantic hurricane season. Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341. Dec. 7, Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day. SAVE THE DATE Dec. 7-15, Hanukkah. Dec. 21, winter solstice. Dec. 1, Manatee Chamber of Commerce golf tournament, Dec. 24, Christmas Eve. Sarasota. Dec., 25, Christmas. Dec. 9, DeSoto Cornhole Tournament, Bradenton. Jan. 12, Center of Anna Maria Island Bingo Night, Anna Maria. Jan. 18-March 28, Thursdays, Annie Silver Community Center bingo, Bradenton Beach. Feb. 24, Pittsburgh Pirates spring training opens, Bradenton. April 5, Bradenton Marauders season opens, Bradenton.

OUTDOORS & NATURE ONGOING OFF AMI Saturdays, 9 a.m., Mornings at the NEST, Robinson Preserve,

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

A Hair Day Salon & Spa Welcome to Fall! Come for a 90-minute relaxation massage, including 15-minute foot scrub & scalp massage, $125. We have openings 10-5 Wednesday.

941.795.5227 MM34454 | MM87857

The Cortez Village Historical Society invites people to gather at 9 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 7, for coffee and conversation. The meetup will be at the Cortez Cultural Center, 11655 Cortez Road, Cortez. For more information, email cvhs2016@aol.com or call 941-840-0590.

Dec. 26-Jan. 1, Kwanzaa. Dec. 31, New Year’s Eve. Jan. 1, New Year’s Day. Get listed! Send listings to calendar@islander.org. Submit social news to news@islander.org. Please, include time, date and location for events, as well as a contact name and phone number for publication. And, thanks for sharing!

the

Vintage flea At Ginny’s and Jane E’s

Look for us at

A Anna Maria City Pier Park 88-4ish • Sunday • Dec. 3 Shop an array of vintage vendors and local artists.

Next market: New Year’s Day 101 N. Bay Blvd. • Anna Maria

MOUNT VERNON PLAZA 9516 CORTEZ RD. W., CORTEZ

WE’VE GOT YOU COVERED.

Scan here to shop!

".* +&8&-3:

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

(FOVJOF EJBNPOET 'FBUVSJOH DBSBU CMVF EJBNPOE SJOH TUBSUJOH BU LU BOLMFUT PWFS TUFSMJOH TJMWFS TUBSU JOH BU 03 PXO B QJFDF PG IJTUPSZ GSPN UIF "UPDIB 4IJQXSFDL GPVOE PGG UIF DPBTU PG ,FZ 8FTU

etsy.com/shop/OddDuckDesignsShop 941-224-1897

.FOUJPO UIJT BE GPS 0'' ".* +FXFMSZ

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

*TMBOE 4IPQQJOH $FOUFS t .BSJOB %SJWF t )PMNFT #FBDI *OTJEF )PX -VDLZ ".*

Island happenings

Page 12 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Nov. 29, 2023 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Christmas markets, merriment planned

The first week of December brings a series of holiday-themed events to the island cities — a market in Anna Maria, a boat parade in Bradenton Beach, a tree-lighting in Holmes Beach and more. • The Mistletoe Market will take place 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Friday-Saturday Dec. 1-2, at Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. The market will include vendors selling art, crafts, food items and more. Attendees are asked to bring a food donation for the Roser Food Pantry. For more info, go online to daniellesblueribbonevents.com or call 231-350-8277. The Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce tree-lighting will be at 6 p.m. Friday, Dec. 1, at the office, 5313 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. For more information, call the chamber at 941778-1541. The event will coincide with the Holmes Beach Holiday Market, 5-8 p.m. Friday, Dec. 1, in the downtown area. Businesses will host open houses, share holiday tunes, welcome Santa and also the Anna Maria Island Privateers. On Saturday, Dec. 2, the Center of Anna Maria Island’s Lester Family Fun Day will be 10:30 a.m.-2 p.m. The event at the center, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria, promises old-fashioned fun and food at oldfashioned prices and will feature performances by the Manatee High School Drum Line, as well as poinsettia sales, pony rides, face-painting, crafting, a 50/50 raffle and a visit at noon by Santa. Attendees also can enjoy lunch and refreshments, with Duffy’s Tavern selling burgers and hot dogs and Small Town Creamery serving ice cream. For more information, go to centerami.org or call the center at 941-778-1908. Later Dec. 2, from 3-9 p.m., Christmas on Bridge Street will be held in Bradenton Beach. The Bridge Street party will draw Santa Claus and feature caroling, business open houses, children’s activities, Manatee Players street performers, an outdoor movie and more. For more information, go online to lovebradentonbeach.com. Also, the fifth annual Bradenton Beach Holiday Lighted Boat Parade will be at 6 p.m. A parade of decorated boats will begin at Longboat Pass, continue in the Intracoastal Waterway past the Historic Bridge Street Pier to reach the Bradenton Beach Marina. For more information, including registration, go online to boat-parade.com or call 203-628-8843. And the Anna Maria Island Privateers’ Christmas at the Drift In will be 6-10 p.m., Drift In, 120 Bridge St., Bradenton Beach. The annual holiday tradition will include raffles, treats, visits with pirates and Santa. — Lisa Neff

for more holiday event notices, see the gathering religion news on page 14.

Privateers registering for Christmas parade The Anna Maria Island Privateers are registering entrants for the nonprofit’s annual Christmas parade, which will be at 10 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 9. The procession — all wheels, no walking — will take off from Coquina Beach in Bradenton Beach, and travel north through Holmes Beach into Anna Maria, ending at City Pier Park at the intersection of Pine Avenue and North Bay Boulevard. The Privateers lead the processional and Santa, aboard his sleigh, follows at the end of the parade. Parade entries must be registered — either in

Santa makes a celebrity appearance in the anna maria island Privateers’ 2019 christmas parade. this year’s parade will be Saturday, dec. 9, traveling the length of the island — from Bradenton Beach to anna maria. islander file Photo: ryan Paice

advance or at the event — and the Privateers policy for “no political advertising or political flags of any kind” will be enforced. After the parade, AMIP will host a holiday party with Santa hosting children with gift lists and handing out presents to children at city field in Holmes Beach. To register for the parade, which is free, go online to amiprivateers.memberlodge.org. For more information, email Terry “Capt. Cookie” Rapert at moespride@verizon.net.

easton Nock, 3, and his brother, garrett, 10, tell Santa claus their christmas wishes dec. 1, 2018, at the 17th annual Lester family fun day at the center of anna maria island, 407 magnolia ave., anna maria. islander file Photo: ryan Paice

Jeep club saddles up for Christmas parade Jeep enthusiasts are revving up the holiday spirit. The holiday season is gearing up on the Gulf Coast as the Bradenton and Sarasota Jeep clubs rally for a Christmas procession that stretches from Bradenton to Anna Maria Island to Siesta Key. Toni Snedecor, president of both clubs, said the parade will commence at 7 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 2, at the Desoto Square Mall, 303 301 Blvd. W., Bradenton, with Jeep enthusiasts in decked-out vehicles. The procession will travel through Bradenton and motor to AMI via Manatee Avenue. The parade will travel south on Gulf Drive to LBK and beyond. Snedecor said the parade tradition began seven years ago and continues to grow. The 2022 parade had 205 participants and Snedecor expects a bigger turn

i.wed

out this year. Spectators can expect a lively atmosphere, with racing engines, holiday music and lighted vehicles. The clubs partnered with the Food Bank of Manatee this year for a food drive, creating an entry fee of two donated canned goods. “This is the first year that we have had a charity involved,” Snedecor said. “We really just want to kick off the Christmas season and stock the shelves so that the less fortunate will have plenty to eat. That’s really why we are doing this.” For more information, go to Bradenton Jeep Club on Facebook. People interested in donating to the food bank can go online to mealsonwheelsplus.org. — robert anderson

The Islander Wedding Directory T ACCOM ACCOMMODATIONS MM Bungalow Beach Resort DIRECTLY ON THE BEACH! Classic 1930s island-style resort. 800-779-3601 bungalow@bungalowbeach.com www.bungalowbeach.com WEDDING CAKES HOMETOWN DESSERTS 507 Pine Ave., Anna Maria 941-896-3167

MUSIC/ENTERTAINMENT Chuck Caudill Entertainment Beach weddings and events. DJ, live guitar and more from an experienced island professional. 941-778-5676 • www.chuckcaudill.com Gulf Drive Band The Best! Classic Danceable Tunes Musical Entertainment DJ for Weddings, Receptions. Call: 941-778-0173. email: gulfdriveband@gmail.com

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

Jeeps are staged for the start of a 2022 holiday parade. islander Photo: courtesy toni Snedecor

Nov. 29, 2023 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 13 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

By Brook morrison

AME decks the halls

It’s beginning to look a lot like Anna Maria Elementary holiday season with a full schedule of activities and events in December. Two AME students who participated in an art coloring contest in support of the nonprofit Embracing Our Differences, which has partnered with Bealls and Guy Harvey, will be selected by Bealls representatives to have their coloring page featured on a stainlesssteel meteor cup to be sold at the west Bradenton store during a Guy Harvey appearance Sunday, Dec. 3. The students also will receive a $100 Bealls gift card and attend a private meet-and-greet with the artist before the signing event.

The winners of the contest won’t be announced until the day of Harvey’s appearance. In other AME news, the school will host the Scholastic Book Fair beginning Monday, Dec. 4, when the media room is transformed to include books and other items for sale. The fair will continue through Thursday, Dec. 7, and every student will have the opportunity to browse and shop. Coinciding with the fair is STEM Night, which will be 5-7 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 6. The science, technology, engineering and maththemed evening provides opportunities for the AME community to explore and learn, grab some pizza in the cafeteria, check out fifth-grade science experiment entries and winners, shop for Scholastic books and maybe even see jolly old St. Nick. In December, the AME-PTO arranged for families to make gingerbread houses 3-5 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 10, at the Center of Anna Maria Island, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria.

AME Calendar

• Thursday, Nov. 30, 3:45 p.m., SAC meeting. • Dec. 4-7, Scholastic Book Fair. • Wednesday, Dec. 6, 5-7 p.m., STEM night. • Sunday, Dec. 10, 3-5 p.m., PTO Family Social, gingerbread house-making, center of anna maria island, 407 magnolia ave., anna maria. • Tuesday, Dec. 12, PTO staff luncheon. • Dec. 14-15, PTO school holiday event. • Friday, Dec. 15, holiday cookie exchange. • Dec. 18-20, holiday shopper. • Thursday, Dec. 21, 6:30 p.m., ﬁfth-grade play in the auditorium. anna maria elementary is at 4700 gulf drive, Holmes Beach. for more information, call the school at 941708-5525.

Playtime with parents children and their parents play Nov. 3 alongside parenting educators from the Sarasota-based forty carrots family center during a Partners in Play event in the island Library, 5701 marina drive, Holmes Beach. islander Photo: ryan Paice

ame first-graders mavis Qin, left, Henrick Pietsch, cayden Lee, melania Brannock, Savannah Bobo and Wilder King hang out Nov. 17 during recess at “our little school by the bay” in Holmes Beach. islander Photo: courtesy maggie van Wormer

rigHt: Photographs of ame families are displayed on a school bulletin board Nov. 17. islander Photo: courtesy Nicole Plummer

Tiki & Kitty’s

Adventures in Shopping … Antiques, Art-Tiques and Chic Boutiques!

Ho! Ho! Ho! It’s time to join Tiki and Kitty on antique, unique hunters. You don’t want to miss this among the vendors’ eclectic collections.

their round of shopping, looking for cheerful decor, bargains galore and holiday spirit! We’re starting the holiday season off with the best places to shop. We’ll definitely make a stop at Blue Flamingo, home to hip and trendy upcycled and repurposed goods, furniture and decor, garden features, candles, jewelry and work by local artisans. They also offer Dixie Belle paints. Set an alarm so you don’t miss the Holiday Sip & Shop at Blue Flamingo starting at 5 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 7. It’s the perfect time to catch the holiday spirit! (More about Sip & Shop, page 27.) 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,

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

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! Stop by at our other locations:

FYI: Scavengers also carries Fusion Paints. The Vintage Vine Market will host the “Friendly City Flea” Dec. 10 at Oscura Cafe. Tiki and Kitty 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.”

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 Nov. 29, 2023 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Gathering

Brewing care

By Lisa Neff

Women of roser guild and the migrant Sewing circle attend the annual migrant tea of church Women united, held Nov. 17, at trinity united methodist church in Bradenton. they helped provide clothing and quilt gifts for migrant children. islander Photo: Peggy Nash

Holly Berry Bazaar Dec. 2

The Episcopal Church of the Annunciation, 4408 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, will hold its Holly Berry Bazaar 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 2. There will be raffles and sales of homemade goodies, crafts, jewelry, Christmas decorations, household Bethlehem Walk Dec. 3 items and more. Roser Memorial Community Church, 512 Pine Also, the kitchen will serve a pancake breakfast Ave., Anna Maria, will host the Bethlehem Walk at 6 with Santa Claus 9-11 a.m. p.m. Sunday, Dec. 3. For more, call the church at 941-778-1638. The walk consists of a journey to Bethlehem —one block in Anna Maria — with Mary and Joseph as they search for shelter. Along the way, participants sing CrossPointe brunch Dec. 2 holiday carols. The CrossPointe REAL Women continues a holiBack at the church, participants will celebrate the day tradition at 9:30 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 2 with a birth of Jesus and then gather in the church hall for hot Christmas brunch. chocolate and cookies. The group will host a guest speaker and a musical For more, call the church at 941-778-0414. performance. CrossPointe is at 8605 Gulf Drive, Holmes 9:30 a.m., women’s social gathering. Beach. Harvey Memorial Community Church, 300 Church Ave., For more, call the church at 941-778-0719.

Garden lights continue

The Longboat Island Chapel, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, is holding Christmas in the Garden: A Celebration of Lights 5-9 p.m. through Dec. 31. People are invited to stroll the gardens on the chapel grounds nightly for decorations and holiday music. Also the church will host special musical presentations, refreshments and treats for children Dec. 5, Dec. 7, Dec. 11, Dec. 13, Dec. 21 and Dec. 31. For more, call the chapel at 941-383-6491.

Ongoing: Wednesdays, 10 a.m., Women’s Bible Study; Mondays, 9 a.m., Men’s Bible Study. Bradenton Beach. Information: 941-779-1912. Longboat Island Chapel, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Worship: Sundays, 9:15 a.m. Key. Info: 941-383-6491, longboatislandchapel.org. compiled by Lisa Neff Roser Memorial Community Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Worship: Sundays, 10 a.m. Maria. Information: 941-778-0414, roserchurch.com. Ongoing: Mondays, 4 p.m., choir practice. ON AMI Worship: Sundays, 8:30 a.m., 10 a.m. Temple Beth Israel, 567 Bay Isles Road, Longboat Key. Info: CrossPointe Fellowship, 8605 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. Ongoing: Tuesdays, Thursdays, 9:30 a.m., RoserRobics; Tues- 941-383-3428. Info: 941-778-0719, crosspointefellowship.church. days, 2 p.m., women’s book study; first and third Wednesdays, 11:30 Worship: Fridays, Shabbat, 5:30 p.m.; Saturdays, 10 a.m. Worship: Sundays, 9 a.m. a.m., Just Older Youth group. THIS WEEK Ongoing: Wednesdays, 7 a.m., men’s Bible meeting; WednesSt. Bernard Catholic Church, 248 S. Harbor Drive, Holmes days, 6 p.m., Wednesday Night Blast supper and 6:30 p.m., Wednes- Beach. Info: 941-778-4769, stbernardcc.org, office@stbernardcc. Through Dec. 31 day Night Blast; Fridays, 10 a.m. women’s Bible meeting. 5-9 p.m. — Christmas in the Garden: A Celebration of Lights org. Episcopal Church of the Annunciation, 4408 Gulf Drive, and Music, Longboat Island Chapel, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Worship: Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m.; Saturdays, 4 p.m.; SunHolmes Beach. Info: 941-778-1638, amiannunciation.org. Longboat Key. Information: 941-383-6491. days, 8:30 a.m., 10:30 a.m. Worship: Thursdays, 9:30 a.m.; Sundays, 8 a.m. and 10:15 Ongoing: Monday-Friday, 8 a.m., rosary; Wednesdays, 7:30 Saturday, Dec. 2 a.m. 9-11 a.m. —Pancake Breakfast with St. Nicholas, Episcopal a.m.; Rosary on the Beach at Manatee Public Beach; Saturdays, 3 Ongoing: Most Wednesdays, 8 a.m., men’s breakfast; Mon- p.m., confession. Church of the Annunciation, 4408 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. Info: days, 1 p.m., book club. 941-778-1638. OFF AMI Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, 6608 Marina Drive. Holmes 9 a.m.-1 p.m. — Holly Berry Bazaar, Episcopal Church of Beach. Info: 941-778-1813, gloriadeilutheran.com. Christ Church of Longboat Key Presbyterian USA, 6400 the Annunciation, 4408 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. Info: 941-778Worship: Sundays, 9:30 a.m., followed by coffee and fellow- Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key. Info: 941-900-4903, christchur- 1638. ship. choflbk.org. 9:30 a.m. — REAL Women of CrossPointe Fellowship ChristOngoing: First Sundays, food bank collections; Wednesdays, Worship: Sundays, 10 a.m. mas brunch, CrossPointe Fellowship, 8605 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. Info: 941-778-0719. Sunday, Dec. 3 Growing in Jesus’ Name 8 a.m.-1 p.m. — Roser Memorial Community Church blood Worship With Us at Our Church drive, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Info: 941-778-0414. 6 p.m. — Roser Memorial Community Church Bethlehem Walk, Sunday Service 10:00 AM 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Info: 941-778-0414.

Tidings

WE TWEET TOO

Dr. Julia Wharff Piermont, Pastor

DĞŶ͛Ɛ ŝďůĞ ^ƚƵĚǇ͗ DŽŶĚĂǇ Λ ϵ͗ϬϬ tŽŵĞŶ͛Ɛ ŝďůĞ ^ƚƵĚǇ͗ tĞĚŶĞƐĚĂǇ Λ ϭϬ͗ϬϬ

WELCOME PASTOR JULIA OŶ ^ƵŶĚĂǇ͕ ĞĐĞŵďĞƌ ϯ͕ ǁĞ ĂƌĞ ĚĞůŝŐŚƚĞĚ

SAVE THE DATE

@ami_islander

Roser Church

8:30 AM & 10:00 AM

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

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

^ŚĞ ĂŶĚ ŚĞƌ ŚƵƐďĂŶĚ ĞŶŶŝƐ͕ ŝŵŵĞĚŝĂƚĞůǇ ĨĞůů ŝŶ ůŽǀĞ ǁŝƚŚ >ŽŶŐďŽĂƚ <ĞǇ ĂŶĚ ŚĂǀĞ ũƵƐƚ ŵŽǀĞĚ ŝŶƚŽ ƚŚĞŝƌ ŚŽŵĞ ŚĞƌĞ͘

Special C hristmas Messiah

WůĞĂƐĞ ũŽŝŶ ƵƐ ŝŶ ƚŚŝƐ ǁŽŶĚĞƌĨƵů ĐĞůĞďƌĂƟŽŶ ĨŽƌ ŽƵƌ ĐŚƵƌĐŚ ĂŶĚ ĐŽŵŵƵŶŝƚǇ͘

ŚƌŝƐƚ ŚƵƌĐŚ ŝƐ ƉůĞĂƐĞĚ ƚŽ ĨĞĂƚƵƌĞ ƚŚĞ ŚƌŝƐƚŵĂƐ ƉŽƌƟŽŶ ŽĨ ,ĂŶĚĞůΖƐ ĐƌŽǁŶŝŶŐ ĂĐŚŝĞǀĞŵĞŶƚ͘ KƵƌ ŚĂŶĐĞů ŚŽŝƌ͕ ĂĐĐŽŵƉĂŶŝĞĚ ďǇ Ă ƉƌŽĨĞƐƐŝŽŶĂů ŽƌĐŚĞƐƚƌĂ͕ ǁŝůů ƉĞƌĨŽƌŵ ƚŚŝƐ ũŽǇĨƵů ŚŽůŝĚĂǇ ĞǀĞŶƚ ĚƵƌŝŶŐ ŽƵƌ ƌĞŐƵůĂƌ Sunday Service ŽŶ December 10 Ăƚ 10:00 AM.

tĂƚĐŚ KƵƌ ϭϬ͗ϬϬ D ^ĞƌǀŝĐĞ >ŝǀĞ͗ ǁǁǁ͘ďŝƚ͘ůǇ/ĐĐůďŬƐĞƌŵŽŶƐ Žƌ www.christchurchof ůďŬ͘ŽƌŐ (ĨŽůůŽǁ zŽƵdƵďĞ ůŝŶkͿ

Growing in Jesus’ Name 6400Gulf GulfofofMexico MexicoDr. Dr.• •941.383.8833 941.383.8833;ŽĸĐĞͿ ;ŽĸĐĞͿ • • ǁǁǁ͘ĐŚƌŝƐƚĐŚƵƌĐŚŽŇďŬ͘ŽƌŐ 6400 ǁǁǁ͘ĐŚƌŝƐƚĐŚƵƌĐŚŽŇďŬ͘ŽƌŐ

SUNDAY WORSHIP

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

ƚŽ ǁĞůĐŽŵĞ ƌ͘ :ƵůŝĂ tŚĂƌī WŝĞƌŵŽŶƚ ĂƐ ŽƵƌ ŶĞǁ ĨƵůůͲƟŵĞ ƉĂƐƚŽƌ͘ ,Ğƌ ŽďǀŝŽƵƐ ĐĂƌŝŶŐ͕ ĐŽŵƉĂƐƐŝŽŶ͕ ĨƌŝĞŶĚůŝŶĞƐƐ ĂŶĚ ƐƉŝƌŝƚƵĂůŝƚǇ ŝŵƉƌĞƐƐĞĚ Ăůů ŽĨ ƵƐ ŝŶ ŽƵƌ ŶĂƟŽŶǁŝĚĞ ƐĞĂƌĐŚ ĨŽƌ ůĞĂĚĞƌƐŚŝƉ͘ ,Ğƌ ŵŽƐƚ ƌĞĐĞŶƚ ƐĞƌǀŝĐĞ ǁĂƐ ^ĞŶŝŽƌ WĂƐƚŽƌ ĨŽƌ tŽƌƚŚŝŶŐƚŽŶ WƌĞƐďǇƚĞƌŝĂŶ ŚƵƌĐŚ ŝŶ KŚŝŽ͘

Dec. 7-15, Hanukkah. Dec. 17, Gloria Dei Christmas concert. Dec. 17, Roser Christmas cantata.

Visitors & Residents Welcome • Free Event

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

Nov. 29, 2023 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 15 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

THANKFUL

Jackson glasscock, 7, is all smiles with a mouthful of his thanksgiving day meal during the roser memorial community church’s holiday dinner.

ANNA MARIA ISLAND

Thanks and giving day at Roser

volunteers Loretta estabrooks, left, and Jack Bonini don turkey hats while enjoying a thanksgiving feast at roser. the church hosted 150 diners Nov. 23.

roser church’s senior pastor, the rev. dirk rodgers, left, blesses the thanksgiving meal at the church, 512 Pine ave., anna maria. “We are just truly grateful to be part of the island community and so blessed that we can open our doors and invite everyone in,” rodgers said. islander Photos: robert anderson thanksgiving celebrants angie Blunt, center right and going counter-clockwise, Skyler dietzman, Jocoby Wilson, amber makkinje, Bonnie makkinje, Betty and doug terry and doug Blunt enjoy the meal Nov. 23 at the roser memorial community church.

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

Say “I Do” ON THE BEACH

SANDBAR I BEACH HOUSE I MAR VISTA events@chilesgroup.com

941-778-8712

chileshospitalityevents.com

Page 16 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Nov. 29, 2023 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

GoodDeeds

Cycles and sustenance event organizer Shirley Pearson, left, stands Nov. 20 with manatee county Sheriff rick Wells and his wife, Lupita, county clerk angel colonneso, Holmes Beach Police chief Bill tokajer and mayor Judy titsworth, right, during a mayors feed the Hungry thanksgiving event in Palmetto, where they distributed food to attendees. the mayors feed the Hungry program since 1987 has distributed more than 600 tons of food and $4,200,000 in gift cards. islander Photo: courtesy HBPd

Assistance sought on AMI

• Island businesses, the Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce and the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve are collecting for Toys for Tots. Drop off new toys through Dec. 15 at A Paradise Realty, 5201 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, as well as at Publix, Cheesecake Cutie and Cafe, Grooms Motors and Automotive, Duffy’s Tavern, the Feast, Hurricane Hanks and the chamber office in Holmes Beach; and at the post office and Center of Anna Maria Island in Anna Maria. Information: 941-778-4800. • The Anna Maria Island Art League seeks volunteers for the Springfest Fine Arts Festival March 16-17, 2024, in Holmes Beach. Info: 419-450-4824. • The Island Players, 10009 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria, seeks volunteers for the 75th season of shows. Info: theislandplayers.org, 941-941 778-5755. • The Anna Maria Island Historical Society, 402 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, seeks volunteer docents and bakers. Info: 941-778-0492, amihs.org. • Wildlife Inc. rescue and rehabilitation in Bradenton Beach seeks volunteers. Info: 941-778-6342.

Holmes Beach code compliance officer Jayson clayton, left, public works technician Brandon roscoe and code compliance supervisor Jt thomas, right, drop off a truckload of recovered bicycles Nov. 20 to be donated to people attending a mayors feed the Hungry event in Palmetto. Holmes Beach police and city staff collect and store abandoned and stolen bikes to be returned to their owners or repaired and donated to the public.

Kiwanis to meet

Assistance offered on AMI

• Roser Food Bank welcomes applicants who live and/or work on Anna Maria Island for food assistance, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Info: 941778-0414. • AID offers financial help to those who live on the island, go to church on the island, attend school on the island and work on the island. Info: 941-725-2433.

& — Lisa Neff

Milestones The Islander welcomes

news about islanders and island life, as well as photographs and notices of the milestones in readers’ lives. Email news@islander.org.

The Kiwanis Club of Anna Maria Island is meeting Saturdays at 8:30 a.m. at Bradenton Beach City Hall, 107 Gulf Drive N. At the Dec. 2 meeting, Joanne Hibbs will address the club about therapy dogs and their training. On Dec. 9, there will be a board meeting. And, on Dec. 16, the club members will gather at a residence for a holiday party and ornament exchange. For more information, call Sandy Haas-Martens at 941-778-1383.

WE ROCK ONLINE

Ginny’s

Jane E’s ISLAND BAKERY, CAFE AND STORE BREAKFAST • LUNCH • COFFEE • BAKERY

Cage-Free Eggs • No Added Nitrates • Locally Sourced Produce •Local Dairy From Daiken Farms in Myakka City

We Sell Local Arts & Crafts OPEN 7-3 EVERYDAY

9807 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria • 941.778.3170 www.ginnysandjanees.com

$ /RQJERDW .H\ /DQGPDUN

&HOHEUDWH WKH +ROLGD\V DW +DUU\µV 5HVWDXUDQW RU DW <RXU 3ODFH ZLWK +DUU\µV &DWHULQJ

3HUIHFW 3DWLR :HDWKHU 9LHZ RXU 0HQX 5HVHUYDWLRQV 6XJJHVWHG

ZZZ +DUU\V.LWFKHQ FRP ȏ *XOI RI 0H[LFR 'ULYH ȏ

ON THE WATER. LIVE MUSIC NIGHTLY. GREAT FOOD. 135 BRIDGE ST. BRADENTON BEACH 941-778-4849

WWW.BRIDGETENDERINN.ROCKS

islander.org

Nov. 29, 2023 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 17 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Putting for rescuers Wildlife inc. volunteer Kellie Sellin edland, right, and andrew Sage hold their “most Honest Player” award Nov. 18 during Birdie for the Birdies at the fish Hole miniature golf course,115 Bridge St., Bradenton Beach. the fundraiser, sponsored by the fish Hole and daiquiri deck, produced $20,500 for Bradenton Beach-based rescue center, Wildlife inc. volunteer Krista carpenter said the money would be used for cages and flooring and to replace obsolete rehab equipment. the rescue, run by ed and gail Straight out of their home, administers close to 3,000 sick or injured animals per year. to donate or learn more about Wildlife inc., go online to wildlifeinc.org. islander Photos: courtesy Krista carpenter

Streetlife

By ryan Paice and robert anderson

Island police reports

Anna Maria No new reports. The Manatee County Sheriff’s Ofﬁce polices Anna Maria. Bradenton Beach No new reports. The Bradenton Beach Police Department polices Bradenton Beach. Cortez No new reports. The MCSO polices Cortez. Holmes Beach Nov. 16, Anchor Inn, 3007 Gulf Drive, trespass. An officer responded to reports of trespassing and met with the bartender, who pointed out a man he wanted

Island watch

In an emergency, call 911. To report info, call the MCSO Anna Maria, 941-708-8899; Bradenton Beach police, 941-778-6311; Holmes Beach police, 941-708-5804. anna maria island Anna Maria C RIsland EAMERY Anna Maria CREAMERY & BA K ERY Island Fresh MadeSorbet In-House Gelato, CREAMERY Gelato, Custard & Sorbet

Custard &Cakes Soft Trufﬂes, &serve Pies Fresh Made In-House

Gelato, Custard Cake and Pie by the slice & Sorbet Gelato • shakes • Truffles CakeSodas •&Pie Trufﬂes, Cakes Pies Soft-serve sundaes • Pure •Cane

softcall serve • Sundaes • Root Beer Floats ahead go! more! Cake andfor Pie to by the and slice Soft-serve sundaes • Pure Cane Sodas 9801 Gulf Drive Sandwiches Anna Maria 941.896.5308 now selling Bagels call ahead for to go! and• more!

9801 Gulf Drive Anna Maria

trespassed from the bar. The officer supervised as the bartender trespassed the man, who left without issue. Nov. 16, 6900 block of Holmes Boulevard, mental illness. Two officers responded to a request for an evaluation for involuntary mental health treatment. They spoke to the complainant, who said her son had become delusional, aggressive and posed a danger to himself and others. They also spoke to the son, who denied his mother’s claims and “was emotional but did not meet criteria for involuntary treatment.” The mother provided a legal order giving her the right to determine and consent to mental health treatment on her son’s behalf. She also provided a sworn affidavit and determined her son needed mental health treatment. An officer transported both her and her son to Centerstone Behavioral Hospital in Bradenton. Nov. 18, Manatee Public Beach, 4000 Gulf Drive,

RoadWatch

Eyes on the road

• Anna Maria Island Bridge on State Road 64/Manatee Avenue: Single-lane closures can be expected 7 p.m.-6 a.m. through December. For more, go to www.swflroads.com. • City center in Holmes Beach: Work on the city’s project near the intersection of Gulf and Marina drives continues but is nearing completion. For the latest, check the city’s page on Facebook. 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, which can disrupt traffic patterns and reduce travel lanes. Ninth Street South is closed and through Dec. 12, the contractor will be paving streets — 11th Street South, 12 Street South and 13th Street South. For the latest, go to amiprojects.io. For area road watch information, go online to swﬂroads.com or dial 511. — Lisa Neff

trespass. An officer saw a motorist parked at the public beach around 1 a.m., after closing hours. The officer told the driver that the park was closed and she was trespassed due to previous warnings. The driver claimed her rights were being violated and requested a supervisor, so a senior officer was called to the scene. He reiterated the terms of the trespass and she left the area without issue. HBPD polices Holmes Beach. Streetlife is based on incident reports and narratives from the BBPD, HBPD and MCSO.

½-Ê t

ÌÌ iÊ Ì> ÞÊ ÊÌ iÊÊ❤ vÊ >Ê >À >Ê Ã > `°

7 Ê , Ê "" Ê 7 / Ê "6 °°°Ê , - Ê ",Ê9"1t

Manatee Avenue Market Gumbozilla

LUNCH AND DINNER ~ TAKE-OUT ONLY

Andre’s Famous Gumbo Made-Fresh Daily Breakfast & Lunch Sandwiches & Salads Pressed Cubans . Chicken Salad . Soup du Jour

UÊ*Ài«>Ài`Ê i> ÃÊv ÀÊ/> iÊ"ÕÌ UÊ À V "Ûi Ê* ââ>ÊUÊ i ÊUÊ Ã«ÀiÃÃ ÊUÊ7 i UÊ ÀiÃ Ê > i`Ê `Ã]Ê Ài>`ÊEÊ*>ÃÌÀ iÃ

Dog food, household items, cold beverages, beer, wine, cigs. FRIENDLY SERVICE!

Open Monday-Saturday 11-7 5337 Gulf Drive ~ at the corner of Holmes Boulevard and Gulf Drive

941-896-9754

Look for the BLUE market at the light . 51st & Manatee

5104 Manatee Ave W . Bradenton . 941.896.6245

941.896.5308

facebook.com/amicreamery

SEAFOOD

BEST E’FIN CORNED BEEF ON THE PLANET!!!

OUTDOOR PATIO SERVICE!

LIVE MUSIC!

THE FRESHEST SEAFOOD ON ANNA MARIA ISLAND

Live Music Friday & Saturday Cocktails, Beer & Wine 121 Bridge St. Bradenton Beach 941-896-9737 bluemarlinami.com

LIVE ENTERTAINMENT @ THE FIN

7%$ ./6 2/#+ 2/,, 42)6)! 7 34%6% !266%9 7-11 THURS., NOV. 30, PAUL FOURNIER 7:30-11:30 FRI., DEC. 1, ERIC VON 3!4 $%# 42%6/2 "9342/- "!.$ 3!.4! (!4 0!249 35.$!9 $%# .&, 4)#+%4 7-11 MON., DEC 3, MARKO COCONUT 7:30-11:30 TUES., DEC. 4, KARAOKE AT THE FIN OR ON OUR PATIO! $%# #,/3%$ %-0,/9%% (/,)$!9 0!249 CRAFT BEER ON TAP, WINE & COCKTAILS OPEN 11 am-11:30 pm Sun-Thur 11am- 1 am Friday & Saturday 5337 GULF DRIVE, HOLMES BEACH &RECKLED&IN COM s s

IRISH PUB, BEACH ATTITUDE!

Page 18 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Nov. 29, 2023 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

‘America’s Best’ coming to AMI The crew at Minnie’s Beach Cafe is known to hit “record” and document the good times at the Holmes Beach restaurant. But on Dec. 7, the video recording at Minnie’s will be done by professionals with America’s Best Restaurants’ “Roadshow.” The national media and marketing company is bringing its “Roadshow” to the restaurant, 5360 Gulf Drive, to highlight popular dishes and interview owners Kathy Smart and Mary Doub about Minnie’s special place in the community. The episode will be aired on social media channels at a later date, according to a release from ABR. Originally from the Northeast, Smart moved to Florida in the late 1990s and began as a server at the restaurant when it was known as Brian’s Sunny Side Up.

She and Doub have been life partners since about 2015 and all the employees are like family at Minnie’s. Minnie’s is a breakfast-and-lunch diner-style spot that offers customer favorites that Smart describes as “old-fashioned food,” including banana bread French toast, sloppy Joe sandwiches and omelets. ”I won’t get an omelet anywhere else,” she said. ABR will be filming on location about 9 a.m.noon Dec. 7. For more information about ABR “Roadshow,” go online to www.americasbestrestaurants.com. For more information about Minnie’s, call 941778-4140 or go to Minnie’s Beach Cafe on Facebook, where people can find events and daily specials. — Lisa Neff

ELECTION NEWS Reminder: Renew vote-by-mail requests

Manatee County residents who vote by mail must renew their ballot requests before the 2024 elections. To request a vote-by-mail ballot, voters can go online to www.votemanatee.gov/vbm or call the supervisor of elections office at 941-741-3823 and press 1. The request requires a voter to provide their name, date of birth and either the last four digits of their Social Security number or a valid Florida driver’s license or Florida identification card. Renewing a vote-by-mail request is a requirement under Senate Bill 90, which passed the Legislature and was signed by Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis in 2021. The law “limits the duration of requests for voteby-mail ballots to all elections through the end of the calendar year of the next regularly scheduled general election.” Looking ahead to 2024 — islanders did not go to the polls in 2023 — the presidential preference primary will be March 19, the general primary Aug. 20 and the general election Nov. 5. — Lisa Neff

america’s Best restaurants dec. 7 will bring its “roadshow” to minnie’s Beach cafe in Holmes Beach. aBr will be filming on location about 9 a.m.-noon dec. 7. islander file and courtesy Photos

� ��

� �� !�� "��

WE ROCK ONLINE

Islander archive? Look online at ufdc.uﬂ.edu. SERVING GOURMET ICE CREAM SINCE 1984

❊ Truly Homemade Ice Cream

(yes, we really make it ourselves)

❊ Voted Best Ice Cream ❊ Open 7 Days a Week www.tylersicecream.com Cortez & 119th 941-794-5333

Longboat Center Shops 941-383-6935

#��$�� %&&�'�� (��"��)� %*+��,��

��+%$�-+.�/$0/1�%2/.��3�'��4)��*� � ��$$��56*0&�(�

islander.org 5904 Marina Drive

Holmes Beach | Trolley Stop #59

Isolabellaﬂ.com | 941.242.5309

Monday-Saturday 5:00-9:00

open 11 am to 11 Pm Wednesday-Sunday, closed mon.-tues. 201 N. Gulf Drive • Bradenton Beach 941.778.0771

“There is no love sincerer than the love of food.” — G.B. Shaw

Takeout & Delivery • Open 7 Days/3:30-9 5406 Marina Drive • Island Shopping Center Holmes Beach • 941.778.5092

Nov. 29, 2023 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 19 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

0)#+ 4(% / 7)..%23 s #/,,%#4 ")' "5#+3 s ! 7)..%2 %6%29 7%%+ s / 7%%+,9 02):%

GET IN THE GAME Bob Blake, Holmes Beach Rollover #/.4%34 7)..%2 ??????????????????????????? "5# 3#/2% 7)..%2 ??????????????????????????

Panthers at Buccaneers

778-9622 Dolphins at Commanders

ON THE WATER. LIVE MUSIC NIGHTLY. GREAT FOOD.

Sandwiches | Charcuterie Gourmet Retail | Cheese Fresh Bread | Sweet Treats

NFL PACKAGE, SEC & BIG 10!

®/6¨®O®[²®* /-®® -/®7 -®" ®

GRAZE STREET AMI 941-896-6320 3218 E. Bay Drive Holmes Beach grazestreetami.com @grazestreetami

Cardinals at Steelers The Island Experts Since 1972 5347 Gulf Drive #4 Holmes Beach Business Center 941-778-9622

BRIDGETENDERINN.ROCKS

49ers at Eagles

,5.#(s$)..%2 $!),9 30%#)!,3 #2!&4 "%%23 %8#%04)/.!, 7).%3 -!2).! $2 (/,-%3 "%!#( 941-778-5092

'/,& 4%..)3 #,5"

Custom New Pool Construction

Voted BEST Wings, Philly Cheese Steak, & Sports Bar

135 BRIDGE ST., BB 941-778-4849

OPEN 7 DAYS-LUNCH & DINNER

9701 Gulf Drive, AM 941-567-4056 slimsplaceami.com

Chiefs at Packers

ISLAND PACKER BAR!

Oklahoma State at Texas

LUNCH & DINNER TAKE-OUT ONLY

À V "Ûi Ê* ââ>ÊUÊ i Ê Ã«ÀiÃÃ ÊUÊ7 iÊUÊ*>ÃÌÀ iÃ Fresh Baked Bread

"«i Ê `>Þ ->ÌÕÀ`>ÞÊ££ Ç xÎÎÇÊ Õ vÊ À ÛiÊHÊ>ÌÊÌ iÊV À iÀÊ vÊ iÃÊ Õ iÛ>À`ÊEÊ Õ vÊ À Ûi

{£ n È Çx{

/PEN TO THE PUBLIC

8 TVS TV T VS WITH WITH WI TH NFL NF N FL SPORTS SPO SP PORTS PACKAGE PACKA PA K GE KA FUN FOR THE FUN TH ENT TIIRE THE HE ENTIRE T FAMILY FAM AMILY AM CORN HOLE, E E, JENGA, J NGA JE GA, GA A, RINGTOSS RIINGTOSS #1 GROUPER GRO OUPE P R PE SANDWICH SAN SA AND NDWI W CH ON AMI A I AM

All prepared to order! kiwistyleﬁshandchips.com 3608 East Bay Dr., HB

5704 MARINA MAR MA ARIN NA A DRIVE DRIIV VE V E

Chargers atBengals Patriots Ravens at

4ERRA #EIA "AY "LVD

0ALMETTO

Pool/Spa Renovation Equipment Repairs & Installation www.tomsangerpools.com

941-704-5040

941-932-1414

SMU at Tulane

Michigan at Iowa

Browns at Rams

YOUR AD HERE

CPC1458020

Falcons at Jets

UGA at Alabama

Home of the closings any time, any place! Lions at Saints

SEAMLESS GUTTERS 941-465-3095 101 42ND ST. W BRADENTON

Call 941. 778.7978 to get in the game!

Kirk and Melissa Reed 203-525-3005 203-512-3749 crossfitannamaria.com

Colts at Titans

Broncos at Texans

* ®/ ®7 s 4HE )SLANDER PAYS TO THE PERSON WITH THE MOST COR RECT GAME WINNING PREDICTIONS #OLLECT PRIZE IN PERSON AT 315 58th St., Suite J, Holmes Beach, or by mail. s %NTRIES MUST BE MAILED OR HAND DELIVERED TO THE NEWS paper office and arrive by noon Saturday every week. s ! WINNER WILL BE DRAWN FROM TYING ENTRIES 4HE DECISION OF 4HE )SLANDER FOOTBALL JUDGE IS lNAL s !LL ENTRIES MUST BE SUBMITTED ON THE PUBLISHED FORM %N TRIES MUST BE HAND WRITTEN ORIGINAL -UST INCLUDE NAME AD dress and phone number. s !LL ADVERTISERS MUST BE LISTED TO BE ELIGIBLE TO WIN

GUTTERZDONE

5602 Marina Drive Holmes Beach

,-®O®7 ®[lÇ

s ONLY /.% %.429 PER PERSON, PER WEEK. Winner 1________________ 2________________ 3________________ 4________________ 5________________ 6________________ 7 _______________

Advertiser ________________ ________________ ________________ ________________ ________________ ________________ ________________

$5O BUCS CONTEST

Winner 8________________ 9________________ 10_______________ 11_______________ 12_______________ 13_______________ 14_______________ 15_______________

Advertiser ________________ ________________ ________________ ________________ ________________ ________________ ________________ ________________

Your correct score prediction for this week’s Buccaneer game could win you $50. Drawing in the event of a tie. Rollover if there’s no winner! (no game/no prize) BUCS ________ vs ___________ SCORE

SCORE

Your name ___________________________________ Address/City _____________________________________________ Phone _________________________ -AIL OR DELIVER SLOT IN THE DOOR BY NOON 3ATURDAY TO 4HE )SLANDER s TH 3T 3UITE * (OLMES "EACH &, s ).&/

Page 20 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Nov. 29, 2023 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

AMI sports narrow to golf, horseshoes for holiday By Kevin P. cassidy islander reporter

With kids and families in the community on holiday break, the week in sports has slimmed down. Golf action at the Key Royale Club in Holmes Beach kicked off for a week Nov. 20 with a men’s modified-Stableford match that saw Roger Rottschafer card an impressive plus-6 to earn clubhouse bragging rights for the day. cassidy Cliff Lanning was a point back in second place, while Marty Hicks, Art McMillan, Jim Menzies and Larry Pippel tied for third place at plus-4. The women played a nine-hole individual-low-net match in two flights Nov. 21 that saw Barb Rickey post the round of the day, finishing in first at 2-under-par 30 in Flight A. Jenny Huibers was alone in second at evenpar 32, while Linda Dorsey, Mary Wilkie and Marcia Friessen finished at 1-over-par 33. Friessen had birdies on the third and sixth holes to highlight her round. Roxanne Koche and Judy Menchek finished in a tie for first place in Flight B with matching 2-over-par 34s. Carol Patterson was a stroke back in second, while Jana Samuels took third place at 4-over-par 36.

Horseshoe news Two teams advanced to the knockout stage during Nov. 22 horseshoe action at the Anna Maria City Hall pits. The team of Steve Doyle and Tom Farrington made quick work of Bob Palmer and Bob Hawks as they cruised to a 21-7 victory and the day’s bragging rights. It was another two-team showdown during Nov. 25 action, as Tom Farrington jumped out to an early lead and held off Bob Heiger and Bob Lee for a 22-15 victory. Play gets underway at 9 a.m. Wednesdays and Saturdays at the Anna Maria pits. Warmups begin at 8:45 a.m., followed by random team selection. There is no charge to play and everyone is welcome. Sports on tap The week was quiet at the Center of Anna Maria Island, with time off from sports for kids and families. But the field is ready to heat up with winter flag football and indoor soccer. Adult flag football runs Jan. 11-March 14 and the last day to register is Dec. 13. There will be a “pick up” for new players at 6 p.m. and draft at 7 p.m. Dec. 14, Games will be played Thursday evenings. Cost is $20 for members and $130

for nonmembers. Indoor soccer will heat up the gym starting Jan. 18 with matches played Thursdays. Cost is $20 for members and $110 for nonmembers. The last day to register is Dec. 15. Kids will have a round of action in flag football on the outdoor field Jan. 15-March 19, with the deadline to register Dec. 8. Evaluations and drafts for the 11-13Y and 14-17Y teams will be 6:30 p.m. Dec. 11, followed by 8-10Y players at 6:30 p.m. Dec. 12. The cost to play youth flag football is $20 for members and $150 for nonmembers. There are no evaluations for 4-5Y or 6-7Y divisions, where the focus is on learning the sport. Game nights are Mondays and Tuesdays. The center also is looking for coaches and sponsors. Also, the center is hosting cheerleading for ages 4-14, with registration closing Dec. 8. A prep meeting and evaluations will be at 5:30 p.m. Dec. 11, with game nights starting Jan. 15. The cost to cheer is $20 for members and $90 for nonmembers. For more information, email recreation@centerami.org, call 941-778-1908 or stop by the center at 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria.

Waterfront abode Pete “the Sand man” faverio works on a sandsculpture Nov. 17 on the beach in anna maria near the Spring avenue access, catching the interest of passersby. faverio bought a condo in the area about two years ago so he could pursue his passion on the island beaches. islander Photo: Lisa Neff

ISLANDER FISHING TIP! IF YOU HOOK A BIRD: REEL, REMOVE, RELEASE! BEN AND KAREN COOPER TAXES & ACCOUNTING

"ANK 2ECONCILIATIONS s 0REPARING &INANCIALS #ALCULATING 0AYROLLS s (OMEOWNER !SSOCIATIONS )NDIVIDUAL #ORPORATE 4AX 2ETURNS 4401 MANATEE AVE. W., BRADENTON NEXT TO REGIONS BANK 941-795-7048 Office benacooper@aol.com

941-795-4878 Fax kacooper77777@aol.com

FIRST IN 1902

In 1902, Buffalo Forge heating company worker Willis Haviland Carrier was tasked with finding a solution to prevent humidity at a Brooklyn printing company. The humid air made the paper expand and contract, which caused illustrations to be printed out of alignment. Carrier developed a system that used pistons to pump air over chilled coils and fan it out into the factory, cooling and dehumidifying the space.

Visit islander.org for the best news on AMI.

ATTENTION RENTAL OWNERS! We meet all your linen and cleaning needs with 5-star service. 18-plus years serving AMI. Our fleet will pick up/drop off daily. (OTELS s 2ESTAURANTS s /FlCE s -ANAGEMENT #O S #ALL 6ERUSHA x www.allin1home.com -ANATEE !VE 7 "RADENTON &L

STILL FIRST IN 2023.

WE TWEET TOO

Grooms Motors & Automotive

The Island Experts Since 1972 5347 Gulf Drive #4, Holmes Business Center

Y AIR CONDITIONING SERVICE Y BRAKE REPAIR SERVICE Y COOLING SYSTEM SERVICE Y EMISSIONS Y FLEETS Y OIL CHANGE Y PREVENTATIVE MAINTENANCE Y TIRE SERVICE 5608 Marina Dr. (next to Dominos pizza) Holmes Beach, 34217 941-896-7898 • www.groomsauto.com

406895-1

941-778-9622

CACO44365 CAC1815902

Quality Car Care

@ami_islander

Nov. 29, 2023 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 21 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Leftovers consumed, time to get back on the water By capt. danny Stasny islander reporter

With the tryptophan worn off and a full recovery from the effects of over-consumption on Thanksgiving, Anna Maria Island anglers are back on the water. On calmer days, venturing into the Gulf of Mexico is a good bet as migratory species — kingfish, mackerel, bonito and sharks — are readily available to anglers working around Stasny structure. The artificial reefs are a good bet to check out as large bait schools are gathering in these areas. Other areas, such as hard bottom and ledges, can be prosperous, too. Although targeting migratory fish with free-lined baits is most exciting, don’t forget to try bottom fishing. Mangrove snapper, Key West grunts, grouper and kingfish are lurking down deep near the structure. You may even encounter a few flounder, if you’re lucky. When it’s too windy and the seas are rough, anglers confined to the back country are finding action. Fishing the inland bays — Sarasota Bay north to Tampa Bay — presents opportunities to catch the popular trio of snook, redfish and spotted seatrout. Other species, such as jack crevalle, ladyfish, bluefish and Spanish mackerel are present in these waters, providing anglers with a variety of options. And with water temps in the mid to lower 70s, the potential for pompano should be on your mind. It might be worth doing a little drifting and jigging over

marcus Quinn, 12, of Bradenton shows off his Nov. 20 catch — a beautiful lane snapper that ate a live pilchard 30 miles off of anna maria. marcus was fishing with family on a charter trip with capt. david White of anna maria charters.

ESTABLISHED 1995

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

Scott toland of anna maria shows off a spotless redfish caught the morning of Nov. 24 on a live pilchard on a guided fishing trip with capt. david White of anna maria charters. the fish was destined to be part of a cookyour-catch dinner that night at the Waterfront restaurant in anna maria.

your favorite areas to target the fish. The drop in water temperature makes it necessary to carry a few dozen live shrimp in addition to the live shiners. When water temps drop, some species will eat a shrimp and you many encounter a species like pompano, which only eat shrimp. So keep a few in the Flow-Troll bucket among your shiners. Also, don’t forget that snook season will close Dec. 15. So if you haven’t gotten your keeper-size snook, you’d better get after it, as your time is running out. This is the last year snook will be open in December. In 2024, snook season will end Nov. 30. On my Just Reel charters I’m spending as much time as possible in the Gulf of Mexico, where kingfish and Spanish mackerel are the main bite, with nice examples being caught of both species. Bonito and shark are in the mix, as well as some unexpected hookups on amberjack. Hooking into the AJs in depths of 40-50 feet in state waters is not a common occurrence. So any opportunities to do so are welcome. In the backcountry, I’m finding snook, reds and trout accommodating, although the bite requires more patience than the bite in the Gulf. Capt. Johnny Mattay of Anna Maria Charters is spending most of his time fishing ledges and reefs in the Gulf when the seas are calm. Hogfish are the highlight of this bite while bottom fishing with shrimp or sandfleas. Mixed in are mangrove snapper, Key West grunts and porgies. Fishing live shiners as bait on the surface in these areas is resulting in catches of kingfish, Spanish mackerel and bonito. Fishing offshore with Mattay is yielding larger kings, as well as yellowtail snapper, amberjack and catch-and-release groupers. Jim Malfese at the Rod & Reel Pier says he’s seeing plenty of action occurring for anglers using live shrimp as bait. Both black and red drum are being caught when casting shrimp under the pier on a weighted rig. Pier anglers might need to use heavier gear as some of these fish are over-slot. Reds and black drum exceeding 30 inches can be hard to curtail, especially around the barnacle encrusted pilings under the pier. Some slot- and over-slot snook are being caught,

which also requires stout gear if the angler hopes to stand a chance at landing one. For anglers with light spinning gear, migratory fish such as blue runners, jack crevalle, ladyfish and mackerel are available. Try casting silver spoons or speck rigs to get hooked up. Capt. David White of Anna Maria Charters is finding good action while working offshore in the Gulf. Mangrove snapper and yellowtail snapper are being reeled up and finding their way into the ice chest. Migratory species such as blackfin tuna and kingfish also are being caught while offshore. Moving in closer to the beaches, White’s anglers are finding good results with bonito and macks, as well as plenty of sharks. Finally, on the flats of Tampa Bay, White is putting clients on snook, redfish and jack crevalle. Send high-resolution photos and ﬁshing reports to ﬁsh@islander.org.

Leighton toland, 10, of austin, texas, shows off her catch — a bruiser of a jack crevalle she caught on a morning fishing trip Nov. 24 in Palma Sola Bay. the family fishing trip was guided by capt. david White of anna maria charters, who helped Leighton hold up her catch.

Page 22 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Nov. 29, 2023 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Petition challenges county reduction of wetland protections By dawn Kitterman Special from the Bradenton times

The taking of wetland buffers in Manatee County won’t go down without a fight. Former Manatee County Commissioner Joseph McClash, publisher of The Bradenton Times, filed a petition with the Florida Division of Administrative Hearings challenging the Manatee County commission’s October vote to amend the comprehensive plan by reducing local wetland buffer protections to state minimums. The request for a formal administrative hearing on the matter was submitted to DOAH Nov. 6 by McClash. Public records show that McClash is asserting that the changes to the local wetland protections are inconsistent with the county’s comprehensive plan and not in the general public’s best interest. During a meeting Nov. 14, commissioners approved a request by the county attorney’s office to retain Tampa-based GrayRobinson Law Firm as outside counsel in the matter. The agenda item was passed on the meeting’s consent agenda. TBT staff became aware of McClash’s petition with the DOAH when staff reviewed public records on the matter. Reached by phone, McClash confirmed having submitted the challenge. “For the most part, I have always kept as much separation as possible between the publication and my civic involvement,” McClash told TBT why he had not alerted the publication’s staff or initiated a news release on the action. McClash said the action was not something he necessarily “wanted” to have to do but he believes strongly it was the “right” thing to do. “Personally, I would rather not have to challenge a government for which I served 22 years as a county commissioner,” said McClash. “However, our environmental decisions are too important to have an elected body decide that our protections should be weakened or reduced.” The action taken by the commission amended the county’s comprehensive plan’s “Element 3 Conservation, Element 4 Coastal Management,” changing local requirements for wetlands mitigation and buffers. Proponents argue that the changes will significantly loosen requirements for development adjacent to local wetlands. The text amendment effectively defers county-level wetland buffer requirements of 30 feet adjacent to viable wetlands and 50 feet near the county’s most sensitive wetlands adjacent to flowing watercourses, to the minimum required by the state — 25 feet average and 15-foot minimum and only near wetlands identified by the state.

In addition, the county’s former regulations identified and protected some wetlands that are not even recognized by the state as needing any specific protection or added buffer requirements. McClash said he filed the request for the administrative hearing because the commission’s decision to lessen the environmental protections lacked scientific justification as well as benefit to the general public. “There’s not a whole lot of people with experience in filing challenges to comp plan text amendments and environmental resource permits — which I have done in the past—and in the evaluation of the county commission’s action with its recent adoption of changes to the comp plan, they failed to make those changes in the best interest of the public even as it lacked any credible explanation or scientific justification,” McClash said.

“On the other hand, the public provided overwhelming testimony including studies to prove the actions cannot be supported, but still the board approved the measure,” he added. “The process of administrative hearings is designed for these specific instances where the county might take action without the proper process or information to substantiate or support the action,” McClash summarized. The week following the board’s Oct. 5 vote to amend its comp plan and reduce its local wetland protections, McClash addressed commissioners during public comment requesting they rescind the action. Editor’s note: Reprinted with permission from The Bradenton Times, which is at www.thebradentontimes. com.

HB continues to pedal multimodal project By Lisa Neff islander editor

A regional transportation group isn’t ready to ink a letter supporting funds for a Holmes Beach multimodal project. A request from the city for a letter was on a consent agenda for the Sarasota/Manatee Metropolitan Planning Organization’s meeting Nov. 20 in Sarasota, but the board pulled the item from the agenda and agreed to push the request to another meeting. A memo for the agenda item read, “This project will create a multimodal path program which will improve connections to beach accesses, city facilities such as playgrounds and parks. … This investment will have a significant impact on the transportation system as well as on the quality of life for both residents and tourists.” The city was seeking a support letter because twice representatives have gone before the Manatee County Tourist Council to request it recommend the county commission allocate tourist development tax revenues for the project and twice they’ve left without the TDC’s endorsement. Holmes Beach’s project involves installing nature-focused educational signs, improving some beach access paths, creating an educational kiosk at a waterfront park near city field, placing rapidflashing beacons at three midblock crosswalks and creating or lengthening multiuse paths along Gulf and Marina drives. The city has plotted the work in two phases and wants $733,948 in TDT money for phase 1, which is expected to cost $1,133,401. Phase 1 includes multiuse paths on Gulf Drive from Holmes Boulevard to 66th Street and on

Marina from 56th Street to 66th Street, one flashing beacon, signage and engineering and a pervioussurface walkway at the entrance to the beach access at 65th Street. Holmes Beach Commissioner Greg Kerchner has told TDC members the “life-and-death” issue should “supersede squabbles,” but the TDC, chaired by Manatee County Commissioner James Satcher, has yet to get behind the project. The city’s request for support from the MPO was backed by the MPO’s technical advisory committee earlier in November and discussed during a Nov. 6 meeting of the Island Transportation Planning Organization at Anna Maria City Hall. However, MPO board members said they needed more information or were unfamiliar with the request. Bradenton Mayor Gene Brown, elected by the MPO board later in the meeting as the 2024 chair, indicated support for the project but questioned phased funding. Also, Anna Maria Mayor Dan Murphy, who chairs the ITPO and represents the island cities on the MPO board, said the “item hasn’t been covered in any type of detail” and “at this point, I don’t know a lot about it.” After a brief discussion, the board agreed to postpone consideration of the letter. The MPO will not meet again until 2024.

WE ROCK ONLINE

RELEASE DATE: 11/26/2023

islander.org

New York Times Sunday Magazine Crossword

No. 1119 RIGHT ON THE MONEY BY GARRETT CHALFIN / EDITED BY WILL SHORTZ Garrett Chalfin, of New York City, is a first-year student at the University of Chicago, taking classes in biology, “Human Being and Citizen” and “Classics of Social and Political Thought.” This puzzle was a long time in the making. He thought of the theme idea over a year ago, then kept coming back to it until he felt he had it just right. Garrett writes, ‘‘I love subtle themes that slowly emerge to the solver.’’ — W. S.

AC R O S S 49 It can be a lifesaver, 98 Not fake 10 Blindly punch in brief 1 Landscaper’s purchase 99 Formulates, as a plan 11 Big, big, big 50 One might read, 4 Downright 101 Craving 12 Like a momentous ‘‘Caution: Messy occasion/Office 9 [If you’ll allow me to 102 Movie hero eater!’’ butt in . . . ] communiqué introduced 51 Twilled fabric in 1981 13 ‘‘Gotcha!’’ 13 Someone’s je ne sais 53 Satyrs, say quoi 106 Novelist Patchett 16 Anton ____, food critic 55 Old nomad of Central 108 Go down slightly in ‘‘Ratatouille’’ 14 Padlock holder Asia 17 Come-on 15 ‘‘Sorry to say . . . ’’ 111 King Tut, during most of his reign 18 ____ years (old age) 56 Playroom collection 17 Speaks loudly 58 Where to see heads 112 Titular feature of 20 Word with purpose or 19 Firefighter famous of gladiators, personality fiction’s Lisbeth for extinguishing informally Salander 21 ‘‘____ you ready?’’ burning wells 60 Little fights 115 No. 34 22 Enjoyed oneself 20 Lollipop with a 62 Degrees for most 116 Oomph ‘‘mystery flavor’’ 24 Major part of profs astronomy? 117 ____ vincit amor 23 Film company behind 64 Poet Ezra ‘‘Amadeus’’ and 25 Tous ____ jours 118 Displayed 65 Dark green Indian (French for ‘‘every ‘‘Platoon’’ 119 Trawler’s need dish day’’) 28 The ‘‘E’’ of E.S.L., for 120 Red army member? 67 ‘‘That was hilarious!’’ 26 Something dot short 121 Caught in textspeak something, say 30 ‘‘Back in the good old 27 Features of telephone 70 Totally committed to 122 Blobby parts of days . . . ’’ blobfish directories 72 Serves right? 32 Claim 29 Emerged as a victor 76 Stuff refineries refine 123 Much of the planet 33 50-50, e.g. Saturn 31 Grovel 77 Classifies 35 First ____ 34 Writer Ayn 80 Part of a furniture (Shakespeare DOWN measurement 35 Fight (for) collection) 1 Product-safety 82 60 minuti 36 Rest atop 37 Movers and shakers indicator 83 Senator Klobuchar 37 Euphemistic cry of 38 Robotic anime genre 2 Princess Fiona, e.g. frustration 84 Whole shebang 3 Treats favorably/Has a 39 Enter 41 Sweetly, in scores 85 Figure of speech in very good effect 40 Switches allegiances, 59 Application of polish, 42 Actress Close which words are e.g. as a spy 4 Fall fruit reversed for effect, 43 Japanese buckwheat 5 It may deliver a punch 41 You’re gonna pay for 61 Grp. that goes on tour like ‘‘Never let a fool noodle this! 63 Novelist Tami 6 What may come before kiss you or a kiss 44 2022 culinary black 42 Targets of some wipes 65 They’re no longer Today fool you’’ comedy, with ‘‘The’’ ‘‘fresh’’ 43 Got less hairy 7 Gig part 87 Vassal’s plot 45 Peabody-winning 66 Prefix with thesis 46 Bracelet bit 8 Get bigger 89 Miss journalist Linda 67 Enjoys doing nothing 48 Peak in the 9 Jacinda ____, New 90 Goldman ____ 47 Prefix with sphere ‘‘Odyssey’’ Zealand prime 68 Taunt, in a way 93 Stylish women’s shoes minister who, at 37, 52 Masters/Elaborated 69 Philadelphia athlete Online subscriptions: Today’s 94 Hasty signature, often was at the time the puzzle and more 53 Gives kudos Answers: 70 Drench 96 Figures in Islamic than 4,000 past puzzles, world’s youngest 54 Flying fish-eaters mythology nytimes.com/crosswords page 24 71 Worker at the Genius female head of ($39.95 a year). 57 Pool locale government 97 Twit, to a Brit Bar

73 Large, as a lead 74 Blow 75 Give lip service? 78 Captain of M.L.B.’s Swingin’ A’s of the 1970s 79 What a Tyrannosaurus rex grapples with? 81 ‘‘Are you satisfied?’’/ Common fairy-tale conclusion 86 ‘‘Not a problem’’

88 Part of a potter’s process/Parts of a building’s safety system 90 Early evening hour 91 Actress Jennifer 92 Lead-in to gender 95 Arthur of ‘‘The Golden Girls’’ 96 Christopher Columbus, e.g. 99 Motherless calf 100 ‘‘Socrate’’ composer

102 Chichén ____ (ancient Mayan city) 103 Hamburg refusal 104 Bad impression? 105 Primatologist Goodall 107 Refusals 109 Store whose name is an acronym 110 Some motel prohibitions 113 Year abroad? 114 They might be wallmounted

Nov. 29, 2023 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 23 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

By Lisa Neff

Southtown season

I scrolled through the TV channels, searching for eye candy or brain fuel and landed on “The Year without a Santa Claus.” In the stop-motion holiday classic, Mrs. Claus — why doesn’t she have a first name? — gets key roles as narrator and rescuer of Christmas while feuding brothers — Heat Miser and Snow Miser — deliver irresistible Neff big-band song-and-dance routines. If you’ve seen the show, I probably put the tunes and storyline in your mind for a day or two. But for those who need a refresher on the plot: When a weary Santa Claus gets sick, he decides to take a holiday instead of delivering gifts. So Mrs. Claus, seeking to inspire Santa, dispatches two elves and a reindeer named Vixen to find proof beyond the North Pole that people believe in St. Nick. In the end, Mrs. Claus, with help from Vixen, the elves and the world’s children, succeeds in getting Santa back to his rounds delivering presents. But a lot of drama unfolds in 51 minutes, including Vixen falling sick to extreme heat, a request from a pompous populist mayor that the elves make it snow in Southtown and a demand from the Heat Miser that he gets to control the North Pole if Snow Miser gets to send snow to the south. A 59-year-old me watched differently than 9-yearold me — my age when the show first aired on TV

“Own Your Piece of PARADISE”

consumer experts forecast that electric-powered bikes, scooters and even cars will be among the top-selling items during the winter gift-giving season. are you shopping to go electric? or shifting to electric? Sandscript is interested in your experiences. email lisa@islander.org. islander courtesy Photo

— as I focused on the politician promoting an antienvironmental policy and Southtown’s misguided celebration of an extreme weather incident. A couple of channels on cable are running holiday shows 24/7. So maybe one of our leading environmental groups should get some commercial time on another showing of “The Year without a Santa Claus.” During this season of giving, we need to think about environmentalism, conservation and the impact of consumerism on the planet. When I shop this year, I’ll be considering the loved ones on my list but also how to reduce waste, reuse or recycle materials, promote sustainability and make my purchases “green.” Some ideas I’ve collected from varied sources — from the EPA, Keep America Beautiful the Nature Conservancy and more: • Shop with reusable bags. • Look for goods in no packaging or packaging with recycled content. • Look for credible ecologos or labels on prod-

ucts. For example, Energy Star indicates an item meets energy-efficiency requirements. Safer Choice labels identify products with safer chemical ingredients than alternatives. SmartWay logos are on passenger vehicles with the lowest emissions. WaterSense is on more water-efficient products. USDA Organic — the “100% organic” label rather than the “organic ingredients” label — indicates certified organic ingredients and processing aids were used and no GMOs. Green Seal Certified indicates products are tested to confirm they meet standards to minimize environmental and health impacts. Also, I use a smartphone app — EWG Healthy Living — to find personal care, household and food products tested and graded for health, safety, transparency and environmental hazards. My hope is someday the app searches, based on research and data by the Environmental Working Group, can be expanded to include more products. • Avoid products promoted with vague, greenwashing claims like “eco-safe” or “environmentally friendly.” • Wrap gifts in recycled paper. • Send recycled-content cards or e-greetings. • When gifting flowers, consider live plants rather than cut flowers. • Aim to “shop local.” Not every small, local retailer fills every shelf with local merchandise but buying local can yield environmental benefits. For one thing, when you shop locally, you reduce your carbon footprint by reducing the need for shipping and transportation. Also, you get to know your retailers and build a network of businesses that prioritize sustainability and ethical environmental practices. Find out who’s naughty or nice and build your list.

Chantelle Lewin

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

Broker Associate

Licensed since 1983

FOR SALE $910,000

941.713.1449

2021 president’s Circle 2022

www.CHANTELLELEWIN.COM

Your Perico Bay Club Specialist!! JUST LISTED!!! 1113 Edgewater Cir - $573.000 1155 Edgewater Cir - $529,000 940 Waterside Lane - $529,000 835 Waterside Lane - $449,700 888 Waterside Lane - $487,000

Call Today To Make It YOURS!

SOLD!!!

Price Improvement on a Superior Location Family beach house for sale, only one home from the beach with stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico and its clear blue and green waters, seen from the living area, the deck and each bedroom. Zoned for weekly rentals, no street-side parking.

1273 Edgewater Cir - $527,000 1277 Spoonbill Landings Cir - $505,000 1275 Spoonbill Landings Cir - $459,000

OPEN HOUSE SUNDAY 1-4pm Call today if you you’re looking you’re to Buy or Sell on Anna Maris Island or the surrounding area! 941.730.1294 I Lynn@Edgewaterami.com

www.EdgewaterRealEstateInc.com

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

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

941.209.1542 I Lynn@Edgewaterami.com www.EdgewaterRealEstateInc.com

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

Page 24 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Nov. 29, 2023 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

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

FREEBIE ITEMS FOR SALE

KIDS FOR HIRE

USED JETSON LIGHT-UP scooter and 2010 Razor scooter for sale. Two for $25. Bill at 724-986-0314. Pictures upon request.

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)

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.

FIREWOOD: LARGE PILE seasoned hardwood. Pre-cut. $40. Call 941-795-5026, Cortez. POOL LADDER Excellent condition, $49, chain-link gate, 45 inches by 42 inches, $39. 941-778-5542. PANINNI MAKER: CUISINART, stainlesssteel, like new, $45. 941-920-2494. SPICE RACK, THREE-tier clear, $20, brown side tables with glass top, 2/$20. 941-9202494. ANTIQUE PARTNER DESK: All wood, $500. Inquire at The Islander, 941-778-7978. LOOKING FOR AN EARLY BIRD? You can read Wednesday’s classifieds on Tuesday at islander.org. And it’s FREE! More ads = more readers in The Islander.

Sandy’s Lawn Service Inc. ESTABLISHED IN 1983

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

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

Andrew Chennault

CBC 1253471

FULLY LICENSED AND INSURED Island References Lic#CBC056755

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

References available • 941-720-7519

GARAGE SALES HUGE MULTI-FAMILY SALE: 9 a.m.-? Friday and Saturday, Dec. 1-2. Many items for everyone including home and office. Coke, Pepsi, M&M’S collectibles and some antiques. Many Christmas decorations for both inside and outside plus lights. Some gift items. Different select items will go up for extra sale for short time throughout the weekend. Too many items large and small to mention. Come and see what bargains you can find. Rain or shine, hot or cold-held inside house and front porch. 10115 Bud Rhoden Road. Palmetto. 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. CAPTAIN FOR HIRE and boat caretaker services: If you need help with your boat on or off the water, call Captain Dan. USCG, retired. 772-486-8085. BOAT FOR SALE: 21-foot Cuddy cabin with 225 Evinrude and trailer. $16,000. 941-3561456. FISHING FUN AND FISH: Skiff rental. 24-foot Carolina skiff. Live bait and fishing equipment included upon request. Call 941-704-9382. HELP WANTED HELP WANTED: EXPERIENCED hair stylist, full or part-time. A Hair Day salon. 9516 Cortez Road, W., #7, Bradenton. 941795-5227. ADD THE SEA Swimwear in Holmes Beach seeks part-time retail associate. Flexible hours. Please, call 941-254-7938 or mn20@ sbcglobal.net.

ANSWERS TO Nov. 29 PUZZLE

NOW HIRING HANDYMAN: Full-time professional services. $18 an hour and up, based on experience. Call JayPros, 941962-2874. REPORTER WANTED: Full- to part-time. Print media, newspaper experience required. Email news@islander.org.

HEALTH CARE CNA: I HAVE 26-plus years’ experience under my belt. If you need help with a loved one, please, give me call. No animals! Tammy, 941-567-8499. SERVICES IS YOUR HOME or office in need of some cleaning? Well, I’m your girl! Local, reliable, professional! Please, give me a call or text, 941-773 -0461. CLEANING: VACATION, CONSTRUCTION, residential, commercial and windows. Licensed and insured. 941-756-4570. PRESSURE WASHING, PAVER sealing, driveway, roof, fence, pool area. Also, window cleaning. Licensed and insured. 941-5653931. BICYCLE REPAIRS: Just4Fun at 5358 Gulf Drive can do most any bicycle repair at a reasonable cost. Pick-up and delivery available. 941-896-7884. COMPANION/HOMEMAKER: Honest and reliable offering help with running errands, grocery shopping, house sitting, pet and plant care, light cooking/cleaning, transportation. References available and licensed. Call Sherri, 941-592-4969. API’S DRYWALL REPAIR: I look forward to servicing your drywall repair needs. Call 941524-8067 to schedule an appointment. AIRPORT RIDES: SARASOTA, St. Pete, Tampa. Call/text, Vita, 941-376-7555. RIDES NEAR AND Far, car transport. Based in Palmetto. 715-292-8692. CLEAN TECH MOBILE Detailing. At your location. Cars, boats, RVs. Call or text Billie for an appointment. 941-592-3482. RIDEEASY247: a local ride service providing a professional car service to all local airports and venues. References on request. Eamonn Fortune, 941-447-7737. HELLO! MY NAME is Jada, I am a local. I am 17 and I am hoping to help you! I am looking to babysit; I love kiddos and I’m available! Call, 941-773-0461. PC OR TECH issues? Not sure where to start? With years of experience, I’ll come to you with reliable solutions. Contact Gavin at 928-587-1309. www.gse.codes. AIRPORT RIDES AND more. Call for times and place. 941-356-1456. BUSINESS-TO-BUSINESS JD’s Window Cleaning, Holmes Beach, 941-920-3840.

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.

Nov. 29, 2023 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 25 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

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

RENTALS Continued

REAL ESTATE

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.

aNNuaL reNtaL: LoveLY Hidden Lake condo. furnished, 3Br/2Ba, one-car garage. clubhouse, pool, gym. minutes to the beach. first, last and security. rent $3,500/month. Wagner realty 941-778-2246.

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.”

LAWN & GARDEN coNNie’S LaNdScaPiNg iNc. residential and commercial. full-service lawn maintenance, landscaping, cleanups, hauling and more! insured. 941-778-5294. coLLiNS LaNdScaPe LigHtiNg: outdoor lighting, landscaping, irrigation services and maintenance. 941-279-9947. mJc24373@ gmail.com. mP LaWN maiNteNaNce now accepting new clients. call dante, 941-730-9199. mp@ mplawnmaintenance.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. 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.

3Br/1Ba furNiSHed aNNuaL: rent includes internet, cable, power, water and electric! $3,300/month. mike Norman realty, 941-778-6696. 4507 123rd St. W., cortez village. SeaSoNaL reNtaLS: WeSt Bradenton condos. all-inclusive pricing. call for details. coastalPropertiesrealty, 941-9620971. avaiLaBLe NoW aNd season: 1Br/1Ba, seven-night minimum. carlesvacationrentals. com. Special rates are available. 941-8071405. 3Br/1Ba: $3,300/moNtH furnished. rent includes internet, cable, power, water and electric! mike Norman realty, 941-778-6696. 4507 123rd St. W., cortez village. aNNuaL reNtaL: 1Br/1Ba. $1,500 month. 4850 51st St. W., #5101, Bradenton. mike Norman realty, 941-778-6696. WiNter SeaSoN reNtaL: available december-may. 2Br/1.5Ba elevated townhouse, sleeps four. Holmes Beach, no pets. only two blocks to beach. $4,500/month plus tax and fees. call anna maria realty, 941-778-2259. dina@annamariareal.com. acroSS from BaY: two miles to anna maria. 2Br/1Ba fully furnished. available January, february, march. all utilities. Washer/dryer. $4,500 month. family owned. 941-773-1552.

WeSt BradeNtoN coNdo: resort lifestyle, ground-floor 2Br//2Ba. garage. 6.5 miles, 14 minutes from gulf beaches. $264,900. call or text, 941-7254374. cute 2Br/1Ba viLLa: approximately eight miles from ami. 55-plus for only $175,000. text or call, 941-228-2430 for photos. Lynda ellinger, realtor, Better Homes and gardens. BeautifuL NortHWeSt NeigHBorHood: minutes to island beaches, robinson Preserve and deSoto Park. upgraded 3Br/2.5Ba, extra large fenced yard, no Hoa fees and not flood zone. $939,000. real estate mart, 941-356-1456.

Island Limousine and Airport Transportation

Prompt, Courteous Service U New Vehicles 941.779.0043

,IVERY )NSUREDs !IRPORT 0ERMITTED

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

iSLaNd: HoLmeS BeacH furnished studio apartment as yearly rental. $1,750 monthly plus deposits. all utilities paid. Separate kitchen, bathroom, walk-in closet, laundry, yard with dining set and umbrella. 941-4050126. SiX-moNtH reNtaL 2Br/2Ba, mt. vernon, 55 and over community. views of Sarasota Bay. fully furnished, minutes from beaches and town. Lots of amenities. call or text, 941-730-5645.

Rick Turner

Personal Driver 941.504.2894

SeaSoNaL reNtaL: HoLmeS Beach 2Br/2Ba bayside condo. Pool, tennis, pickleball, beautifully updated. call Julie at 312835-3054 or email shellpointhaven@gmail. com for photos and details. moNtHLY reNtaL: LocatioN 29th Street and avenue B, Holmes Beach. 2Br/2/Ba bungalow (half duplex). five-minute walk to beach. Nice outdoor patio, no stairs, No animals. one parking spot. available december 2023 and January 2024. Price per month, $3,900. contact 519-807-9426.

Perico iSLaNd Patio home for rent. 3Br/2Ba, 30-day minimum. Privacy fence/ gate, two miles to ami. January, 2024 available. call or text, 859-771-6423.

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.

BeautifuLLY furNiSHed, aNNuaL rental in Beach Harbor club, Longboat Key. 2Br/2Ba with views of the bay, laundry and condo amenities include pool, grill, with both bay and beach access. $200 application required. $3,800 month plus first and last month’s rent and $1,000 deposit. call mike Norman realty, 941-778-6696. 3101 gulf drive, Holmes Beach, fL 34217.

Place classiﬁed ads online at islander.org

OR AFTER HOURS

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

)SLAND 3HOPPING #ENTER

(OLMES "LVD

ONLY LAUNDROMAT ON AMI

Page 26 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Nov. 29, 2023 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

isl

the winners pose on learning the results of the “business of the year” Nov. 17 at the annual gala for the anna maria island chamber of commerce at the Bradenton country club. the chamber named winners in small, medium, large and nonprofit categories. this year’s winners are, front row from left, Bins Be clean, cheesecake cutie, nonprofit Habitat for Humanity and college Hunks Hauling Junk and moving. islander courtesy Photo

biz By Lisa Neff

Fly the SRQ skies

The Sarasota Bradenton International Airport continues to report upticks in travel — an 8.6% increase comparing October 2022 and October 2023, for example. About 334,532 passengers traveled through SRQ in October. And, from October 2022 to October 2023, more than 4.2 million passengers traveled through SRQ, an increase of 13.15% compared to the year prior. For Thanksgiving travel, SRQ increased its flights to meet demand and announced returning services for November and December, including Allegiant flights for Austin, Texas, and Louisville, Delta for Detroit, United for Houston and Frontier for Cleveland. The airport also opened a new “cellphone” waiting area for people meeting “arrivals.” For more about SRQ, go to flysrq.com.

Chamber champs

juice and more. The cost is $15-$25 and registration is required by Tuesday, Dec. 5. For more info, email ingrid@amichamber.org or call the chamber at 941-778-1541. Also in December, the Manatee Chamber of Commerce will host its Pancakes & Politics 7:30-9:30 a.m. Monday, Dec. 18, at Pier 22, 1200 First Ave. W., Bradenton. Breakfast matters The Manatee chamber annually hosts a preview of Wake up with the Anna Maria Island Chamber of the legislative session, inviting lawmakers to address Commerce at its breakfast meeting Thursday, Dec. 7, the forum and answer questions from diners. The cost is $40 and reservations are required. at the Compass Hotel Anna Maria Sound. For more information, call the chamber at 941The gathering will be 7:30-9 a.m. at the hotel, 748-3411 or go online to manateechamber.com. 12324 Manatee Ave., Perico Island. The “full American” breakfast buffet will include eggs, sausage, bacon, pancakes, French toast, coffee, By Lisa Neff

BizCal

THIS WEEK

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

EXCLUSIVE

LUXURY

VACATION HOMES

All smiles

Shandra and Jeff Holbrook of the cheerful coast group, a dalton Wade real estate branch, stand at the counter of their newly opened office at the island Plaza, No. 140, 119 Bridge St., Bradenton Beach. an announcement said the Holbrooks “are the driving force behind the cheerful coast group and have lived in Bradenton since 2017. they entered real estate after award-winning careers as teachers and coaches.” the cheerful operation promises a “knowledgeable real estate experiSAVE THE DATES ence with a personal touch in sales and property Dec. 7, 7:30 a.m., Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce management.” for more information, go to www. breakfast meeting, Compass Hotel, Perico Island. cheerfulcoast.com or call 941-32-cHeer. islander Dec. 8. 5:30-8 p.m., Holiday Walk of Treasures, Anna Maria. courtesy Photo Dec. 18, 7:30 a.m., Pancakes and Politics with the Manatee Chamber of Commerce, Bradenton. Friday, Dec. 1 6 p.m. — Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce tree-lighting, 5313 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-1541. 5-8 p.m. — Holmes Beach Holiday Market open houses, city center area of Gulf and Marina drives. Information: 941-778-1541. Saturday, Dec. 2 3-9 p.m. — Merchants Christmas on Bridge Street open houses, Bridge Street, Bradenton Beach. Info lovebradentonbeach.com.

Business news

Once Upon A Beach VACATION RENTALS - 941.584.5844

Does your business celebrate achievements? Maybe you’re new in business or your staff deserves kudos. Submit your information to news@islander.org.

PropertyWatch By carol Bernard

No real estate sales were available for the week.

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

T hinking about what

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

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

@ONCEUPONABEACHAMI

ONCEUPONABEACHAMI.COM

3340 E. Bay Drive, HB Office 941 462 4016

Nov. 29, 2023 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 27 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Ho! Ho! Ho! for a cause

andrew Littorno of the Blue flamingo boutique is looking for some help with a project to provide christmas gifts for 50 or so kids attending Barbecue with Santa at a neighboring business dec. 19. to help make christmas merry for the kids, all from needy families, Blue flamingo — and their various artists and artful vendors — is offering items for auction, displayed in vendor booths at the store, 4229 26th St. W., Bradenton, dec. 1-7, with auction winners announced thursday, dec. 7, at their 5-8 p.m. Sip and Shop event. Sip and Shop includes live music, food and libations and goodie bags for guests. By the way, shop and bid anytime dec. 1-7 because winners do not need to be present for the drawings. don’t miss a chance to check off some fun gifts for friends and family — and also grab a video selfie with the Blue flamingo’s rocking Santa claus at the front door. islander Photo: Bonner Joy

MIKE NORMAN REALTY EST. 1978

The Oldest Family Owned and Operated Real Estate Firm on Anna Maria Island

Mike Norman Realty Sweet work

tamela Behm vrinios, left, ted Berg, candymaker Peter vrinios, and melissa delany Nov. 18 shape candy canes at the fudge factory, a confectioner on Bridge Street in Bradenton Beach. islander Photo: robert anderson

800-367-1617 • 941-778-6696 31O1 GULF DR HOLMES BEACH

INC

www.mikenormanrealty.com sales@mikenormanrealty.com

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

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

Becky Sirigotis Principal Real Estate Advisor

Curated Lifestyles. Concierge Service.

M: 941.201.8000

Call me today for more information!

becky@amihomes.com AMIHomes.com

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

Page 28 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Nov. 29, 2023 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................