The Islander Newspaper E-Edition: Wednesday, Dec. 08, 2021 by The Anna Maria Islander Newspaper

VOLUME 30, NO. 7

The Best News on Anna Maria Island Since 1992

Happy Holidays

DEC. 8, 2021 FREE

islander.org

Astheworldterns. 6 county focuses on erosion control tools. 2 No confirmation on cortez Post Office lease. 3

Q&A 120821.

BB names new engineering firm. 4

Meetings. 4 HBPD seeks help solving theft. 5

Opinions. 6

10-20 YEARs AGo

Looking back. 7

HB seeds garden. 8 LBK seeks funding for sewer line work. 9

Ho-Ho-Ho!

Happenings

All around, up and down, in the sky, by water and land, AMI and Cortez celebrate the jolly season.

What’s up on AMI. 10-11

Save a date. 11-12

School choice window opens. 13

Gathering. 14 Seeking food aid. 15 Where’s Tuna Street.

Islander Photo: Bonner Joy

For more, see inside! Islander Photo: Aris Thompson

16-17

AMI makes merry. 18-19 Get in the game. 20

StreetLife. 21 crash leaves islander critical. 21 Atlantic hurricane season ends. 22

collecting treasure. 23 Soccer playoffs begin. 24 Grab gear, cast at the beach. 25

Isl Biz: Networking, lobbying, more. 26-27 Tourist tax dollars continue to rise. 27

CLASSIFIEDS. 28-29

PropertyWatch. 30

NYT puzzle. 31

Islander Photo: Marianne ellis

Islander Photo: Ryan Paice

Page 2 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Dec. 8, 2021 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

County focuses on coastline, erosion control tools for 2022

including: • An assessment of managing a shoal in the Passage Key inlet off the island’s north end is underway that provides sand for renourishment. • Work to establish a 2-acre limestone boulder mitigation reef off Coquina Beach. • Work to create a half-acre recreational reef off Coquina Beach for snorkeling. There was no discussion during the Dec. 1 meeting of future renourishment projects, as sand-based projects were completed in 2020 and 2021. “Anna Maria Island is full of sand right now, which is a great thing,” said Pierro. “Longboat Key at the north end has a lot of sand as well.”

By Lisa Neff Islander editor

Anna Maria Island’s coastline is covered in sand courtesy of 2020 and 2021 renourishment projects. So Manatee County is focusing on improving the tools that help keep the sand in place — as much as possible. The beaches are constantly challenged by erosive forces of the Gulf of Mexico, county parks and natural resources director Charlie Hunsicker said Dec. 1, addressing county commissioners, staff and representatives from Longboat Key during a workshop in Bradenton. To address erosion, some capital projects involve pumping sand onto the shore, renourishing the beach for recreation and habitat. Other capital projects involve constructing or repairing structures intended to keep the sand in place, especially at Coquina Beach in Bradenton Beach. Hunsicker joked to his audience that he should call Coquina Beach the “Coquina Causeway” because the area was built up as a causeway in the 1950s and “Mother Nature has never wanted it to remain.” Erosion control structures at Coquina include the Longboat Pass jetty on the south end of the beach — the tip of Anna Maria Island — and a series of 20 concrete groins spaced about 250 feet apart. “These are structures that along with a healthy sand source keep our beaches beautiful,” Hunsicker said. But it’s time to reevaluate the tools, he added as he introduced a county contractor, Tom Pierro of Coastal Protection Engineering. The jetty, made of a wooden crib with concrete pilings and limestone boulders, initially was installed in 1957. In 2012, geotextile tubes were added as temporary erosion controls. Pierro said the jetty needs rehabilitation — sand flows through it, “stealing sand from Coquina Beach,” and the seaward end of the jetty is eroding, “there’s not

Building better beaches

Boaters cruise Dec. 2 past the Longboat Pass jetty at the south end of Anna Maria Island. Manatee county officials are discussing a rehabilitation of the structure, which was installed in 1957. Islander Photo: Lisa Neff

There are two basic sand renourishment programs for Manatee County, one that’s countymanaged and one that’s federally authorized and led by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Since 1992, the island has received about 6.8 million cubic yards of sand, including in 2020 and 2021. Coquina Beach is managed by the county and the renourishment area is about 1.5 miles long, from Fourth Street South to Longboat Pass. Renourishment occurred in 2011, 2013-14, 2020 and 2021. The central beach project area is about 4.2 miles, from 77th Street in Holmes Beach to Fourth Street South in Bradenton Beach. The initial restoration was in 1992-93, with five more sand deliveries — 2002, 2005-06, 2011, 2013-14 and 2020.

much left of it.” Pierro also identified issues with the Coquina groins, the northernmost structures in particular, where caps are broken and rebar is exposed. A stabilization study identified seven alternatives, including one that Pierro said emerged as a favored option — remove the groin field and build three 300Milestones foot breakwaters. We welcome photographs and notices of mileThe county also is working on several other projects related to erosion control and renourishment, stones. Submit them to news@islander.org.

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Dec. 8, 2021 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 3 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

USPS declines to conﬁrm lease for Cortez Post Ofﬁce

even drive anymore. So they may have a golf cart or they walk down here or have someone else pick up their mail for them,” she said. Petree and others like her are hoping the post office stays open.

By Tomas Gomez Islander Reporter

The Cortez Post Office isn’t in the clear just yet. John Banyas, owner of the strip plaza on Cortez Road that includes the post office at 12112 44th Ave. W., said Nov. 29 an agreement was reached with the U.S. Postal Service to keep the office open. The post office has occupied the building for many years, including before Banyas became the owner in 2015. However, USPS has not confirmed that a new lease is finalized. Banyas told The Islander an agreement was made for a five-year lease in exchange for USPS adding him to its insurance policy for the facility. In 2020, Banyas was sued after a flagpole attached to the exterior of the post office fell and injured Richard C. Kiley, according to court records. Banyas maintains the injury was due to USPS’s failure to maintain its equipment, in violation of the lease. According to Banyas, requests to be included in USPS’s insurance coverage were rejected, prompting him to decline renewal for the lease in August. David Walton, spokesman for the USPS in the central Florida region, said the service’s legal team has not confirmed whether the terms were agreed upon. “While we can’t confirm an agreement has been reached, we have sort of a verbal agreement that the office will remain open for now,” he told The Islander Dec. 2. The USPS in late July had received a notice from Banyas that their lease would not be renewed. The USPS did not vacate and became a hold-over tenant, remaining despite the lease’s expiration. Banyas filed to have the USPS evicted Sept. 21. A notice of closure posted at the post office in late October prompted residents to rally to save the post office or secure home delivery for south Cortez. Their efforts resulted in the intervention of U.S. Rep. Vern Buchanan, R-Longboat Key. An extension on the eviction was granted through

Don’t forget the annual Privateers christmas Parade steps off at 10 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 11, at coquina Beach and travels north to Anna Maria.

Hazel Petree accesses her P.O. box Dec. 3 at the cortez Post Office. Petree has lived in cortez most of her life and says it’s important to her the facility remains open. Islander Photo: Tomas Gomez

Q&A 120821

By Lisa Neff

The Islander poll Last week’s question

The best part of the Anna Maria Island Privateers Christmas Parade: November while an agreement was negotiated. 31%. Santa’s appearance. The status of the post office lease is a concern to 10%. The beads. residents in the village because the area south of Cortez 21%. Seeing friends, family. Road does not have home delivery. 26%. Rowdy pirates. People without home delivery receive free P.O. 11%. Other. boxes at the Cortez Post Office, which serves 50-60 This week’s question people each day, according to staff. For Anna Maria Island, rising sea level is: Hazel Petree of Cortez says it’s important the post A. An issue to address now. office stay open. B. A concern in 20 years. “I grew up in Cortez. I’m 71 and I moved away as C. Not a concern. an adult for eight years but otherwise I’ve lived here all D. Should have started to address 10 years ago. my life. …There are people here who probably don’t To take the poll, go online to islander.org.

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HO-HO-HO!

FAR LeFT: Holmes Beach public works employee Kevin Wynn clowns around Dec. 2 with an oversized Grinch while setting up holiday decorations along Gulf Drive at Anna Maria elementary School. TOP LeFT: HB public works, with Wynn in the bucket and an assist from Scott Roscoe, install a holiday decoration Nov. 29 on a palm tree at city hall, 5801 Marina Drive. LeFT: Anthony’s electrical employee chad Holloman sets up decorations Dec. 2 at the Anna Maria Island chamber of commerce, 5313 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, for the Dec. 3 tree lighting. Islander Photos: Bonner Joy

Bradenton Beach commission selects new ‘engineer of record’ By Tomas Gomez Islander Reporter

Colliers Engineering and Design is Bradenton Beach’s engineer of record as of Dec. 3. The designation makes Colliers the first choice for future contracts for Bradenton Beach projects. The company already has been involved in multiple city projects, including surveying and engineering work for stormwater drainage and maintenance. Infrastructure Solution Services was the commission’s No. 2 choice. LTA Engineers — the city’s previous engineering firm — did not apply for consideration, according to city attorney Ricinda Perry. A second motion was passed by consensus to authorize the city attorney to negotiate with Colliers and ISS. “We’ve been working with Colliers and I’m 100%

Meetings

Anna Maria City Dec. 9, 2 p.m., commission (organizational). Anna Maria City Hall, 10005 Gulf Drive, 941708-6130, cityofannamaria.com. Bradenton Beach Dec. 8, 2 p.m., ScenicWAVES. Dec. 16, noon, commission. CANCELED Jan. 5, 9:30 a.m., CRA. Bradenton Beach City Hall, 107 Gulf Drive N., 941-778-1005, cityofbradentonbeach.com. Holmes Beach Dec. 8, 5 p.m., planning. Dec. 14, 5 p.m., commission. Jan. 5, 10 a.m., parks and beautification. Jan. 5, 5 p.m., planning. Jan. 11, 5 p.m., commission. Jan. 19, 10 a.m., code. Jan. 25, commission. Holmes Beach City Hall, 5801 Marina Drive, 941-708-5800, holmesbeachﬂ.org. West Manatee Fire Rescue None announced.

satisfied with them. They’ve been great,” Mayor John Chappie said. Public works director Tom Woodard said he approved of the decision. “It is nice to have a relationship with a firm that knows what we’re talking about and interplay,” he said. “Colliers was my top pick. ISS has strong points as well but we can task them with going out and bringing projects back. For that reason, I’d like to have a working agreement with them.” In other matters at the meeting: • The commission postponed the installation of a memorial bench plaque on Third Street South at Gulf Drive to ask the donor for a smaller word count for the message on the bench. • Perry updated the commission on the utility undergrounding along Gulf Drive. She said 64 of 97 connections to the underground grid were completed

WMFR administration building, 701 63rd St. W., Bradenton, 941-761-1555, wmfr.org. Manatee County Dec. 14, 9 a.m., commission. Dec. 15, 1 p.m., commission (work session). Dec. 16, 2 p.m., commission (land use). County administration building, 1112 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton, 941-748-4501, mymanatee. org. Also of interest Dec. 13, 9 a.m., Manatee County Tourist Development Council, Center of Anna Maria Island, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria. Dec. 25, Christmas, most government offices will observe the holiday with closures Dec. 23-26. Jan. 1, New Year’s, most government offices will be closed Dec. 31-Jan. 2. Jan. 17, Martin Luther King Jr. Day, most government offices will be closed. — Lisa Neff

Please, send meeting notices to calendar@ islander.org.

and the final easement for approval of the removal of powerlines has been acquired. • The commission planned to discuss in January the collection of court-ordered payments from former planning and zoning board member Reed Mapes as a result of a Sunshine lawsuit settlement. The next city commission meeting will be at noon Thursday, Jan. 6, at city hall, 107 Gulf Drive N.

Senator’s staff provide local in-person constituent services

The office of U.S. Sen. Marco Rubio, R-Florida, will host mobile hours Dec. 9 in Holmes Beach to assist constituents with federal issues. Rubio wrote in an email to constituents, “My staff will be there to offer constituent services on items such as Social Security payments, issues with the IRS, federal disaster claims and veterans benefits, as well as to listen to your concerns and suggestions.” Rubio The office hours offer peoples who do not live close to one of Rubio’s eight regional offices a way to receive inperson federal casework assistance. Staff will be at the Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m.-noon Thursday, Dec. 9. A link to the event on the senator’s website requests RSVPs. To connect, go online to rubio.senate.gov and search mobile office hours. Rubio’s closest-to-AMI office is in Tampa, where the phone number is 813-947-6288.

Milestones

The Islander welcomes stories about islanders and island life, as well as photographs and notices of the milestones in readers’ lives — weddings, births, anniversaries, travels, obituaries and other events. Submit your announcements and photographs with captions for publication — along with contact information — to news@islander.org. Also, visit us on Facebook and join the friends who “like” The Islander and share their social news.

Dec. 8, 2021 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 5 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

BB CRA approves new signs for historic district By Tomas Gomez Islander Reporter

The new year will bring new street signs to the business district in Bradenton Beach. The Bradenton Beach Community Redevelopment Agency reached consensus to move forward with new signage for the district that includes Bridge Street. The CRA has yet to determine quantity and cost, but city attorney Ricinda Perry said the number of new signs is “significantly more than 60” and will cost about $62,000. Perry said the signs entail “everything,” including crossing signs, street names and speed postings in the district, which is bordered by Cortez Road, Sarasota Bay, Fifth Street South and the Gulf of Mexico. “There’s been a tremendous amount of effort trying to identify a company (that) might be interested in the project and it’s been a challenge to put out a request,” she said. Perry focused on Rothco Signs and Design Inc. of North Port and whether they have the appeal that the CRA was trying to achieve for its signage around the city — and the CRA members agreed. Rothco has been working with the CRA for six months, according to owner David T. Roth. The CRA decided to also have Rothco install the signs, with the city taking over maintenance. The signs will have PVC posts with 4r-inch-diameter ballcaps. The design was chosen for low maintenance and easy replacement, according to Perry,

A sign posted in Lakewood Ranch. The sign and post will be the new style for signage in the Bradenton Beach cRA district. Islander Photo: city of BB

who provided photos of Lakewood Ranch signs as examples of what to expect. In other matters: • CRA member Ed Chiles noted an 8%-10% increase in real estate values for the CRA district. The CRA receives funding from concession funds, state appropriations and interest income but the bulk of funding comes from shared revenue generated by property taxes, including from the city and the county. • The CRA approved a $5,200 invoice for tram service for October. The Coquina Beach-business district shuttle is funded by the CRA to increase parking. • The members reviewed adjustments to a survey for work on the floating dock near the Historic Bridge Street Pier. The next CRA meeting will be at 9:30 a.m., Wednesday, Jan. 5, at city hall, 107 Gulf Drive N.

Public forum Dec. 9 for HB comp plan changes The Holmes Beach Planning Commission finally may receive the public input its members seek. Planning commissioners will host a public forum at 5 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 8, at city hall, 5801 Marina Drive, to discuss their recommended changes to the city’s comprehensive plan with residents and community members. Comp plans were initiated by the state in 1989 and determine community goals and aspirations regarding development, as well as guide future legislation. The city’s 110-page comp plan lists 10 elements, including future land use, housing and infrastructure. The city hired LaRue Planning, a Fort Myers-based

consulting firm, in January 2020 to help planning commissioners revise the comp plan and, after almost two years, the job is nearly done. However, planning commissioners want to hear from the public before they submit their recommendations to the city commission. The forum will feature a round-robin format, where planning commissioners will attend stations to discuss the document and collect input from attendees. A sign for the event posted to the city’s website, holmesbeachfl.org, reads, “Help shape the future of Holmes Beach!”

HBPD seeks help solving ‘pesty’ condo burglary By Ryan Paice Islander Reporter

The Holmes Beach Police Department is stressing caution as some criminals become creative. Police Chief Bill Tokajer told The Islander Dec. 3 that a Westbay Cove condo unit in the 600 block of Manatee Avenue West was burglarized Nov. 30 by two men who claimed to be employees from the property owner’s pest control company. The victim told police that the pair said there were pests in nearby units, so they needed to inspect hers. When inside, one of the men distracted the owner with conversation while the other searched her home. After the pair left, the owner went shopping before finding that cash was missing from her wallet. She returned home to find that more cash was missing from a nightstand. She reported the incident to the HBPD, which warned about the crimes Dec. 2 in two Facebook posts. One post warned community members of the reported distraction burglary, described the crime and issued words of advice. “Our advice is not to let anyone into your home unless you are expecting them or know them. Use a door chain if possible while you establish the person is genuine,” the post reads. Another post describing the incident asked locals from the area to check security cameras for footage of the incident to help identify the suspects. Tokajer said an investigation is ongoing and his officers had recovered a video showing the pair as of Dec. 3. However, the attempt to identify the two men is ongoing. People with information and/or video of the incident can email HBPD Detective Josh Fleischer, at fleischerj@holmesbeach.org.

— Ryan Paice

True-crime TV comes to AMI “Underneath the Sunset,” an episode of the Oxygen TV’s show “Buried in the Sand,” aired Dec. 2. The program explored the November 2008 killing of Anna Maria Island resident and motel-owner Sabine Musil-Buehler and the subsequent investigation and murder conviction of William cumber. The episode includes video footage from the Manatee county Sheriff’s Office of cumber leading authorities to the location where he buried Musil-Buehler’s body in November 2008, as well as local interviews. For more information, go online to oxygen.com/buried-in-the-backyard. Islander Screenshot

Ready for Season? Are you looking forward to the fall-winter season on AMI? You can improve your odds for success and reach The Islander’s readers — residents, seasonal visitors and vacationers — looking for things to do. Shop, dine, events and indoor and outdoor fun. For advertising info, call or text 941-778-7978.

Page 6 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Dec. 8, 2021 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Opinion

Our

How many shopping days?

If you feel like Christmas is speeding at you like a comet in an old Superman TV show, you’re not alone. It feels as if everything is happening at once, with Christmas events piled up like snowflakes in a midwest snowstorm. And we’re all racing to capture the best moments, the best taste and feel of the holiday. And shopping. I was helping my granddaughter last week get a Christmas tree, decorations and a replacement for her broken TV stand. By the time we were done, it felt like a week on my feet. And one of the stores we were determined to hit was forever closed. We skipped lunch and opted for pistachios and chips from the check-out lane — after all, we were power shopping. Gliding through traffic. And listening to Christmas carols in the SUV. I do love Christmas rock ’n’ roll oldies — around the clock! Then came “Jingle Jaws.” I was flipping channels and came across “Jaws: The Revenge” on the Sundance network and caught the tail end of the movie. The “Jaws” syndicate was playing in reverse, starting with “Revenge” from 1987 to the original “Jaws” — a 1975 release. Well, since I waited several years to watch the original movie — after the SNL parodies and the music had nearly worn out its audience — I never saw the sequels. I just don’t like horror films, TV horror shows or anything related to them. “Jaws” managed to keep me from swimming in the Gulf of Mexico. After the movie, I was limited to body surfing — with both eyes open. So my plans for Sunday evening were awash in “Jaws.” No tree decorating — although the tree went up earlier. No cookie baking. No present wrapping. Just shark stories, as the original “Jaws” movie came last in the early “Jingle Jaws” schedule — which then repeated in order. “Jaws” has the best quotes and the horror has become laughable over the years. So here’s to “Jaws” — and a bigger boat. I am remiss in paying tribute to “the shark lady,” Genie Clark, who led the world from our waters to a better understanding of sharks. In 2022, you will be able to purchase a Forever Stamp that honors her and her shark endeavors. Her research and educational programs advanced our appreciation of marine life and, along with another hero, Bill Mote, she launched what we now know as Mote Marine Laboratory. Just think twice about swimming with chum. Happy island shopping — keep it small, please. And our fondest Christmas greetings to y’all. — Bonner Joy, news@islander.org

DEC. 8, 2021 • Vol. 30, No. 7 Publisher, Co-editor Bonner Joy, news@islander.org ▼ Editorial editor Lisa Neff, lisa@islander.org Joe Bird, editorial cartoonist Kevin cassidy, kevin@islander.org Jack elka, jack@jackelka.com Tomas Gomez, tomas@islander.org Kane Kaiman, kane@islander.org Ryan Paice, ryan@islander.org ▼ Contributors Karen Riley-Love Samara Paice Amber Sigman capt. Danny Stasny, fish@islander.org ▼ Advertising Director Toni Lyon, toni@islander.org ▼ Webmaster Wayne Ansell ▼ Office Manager, Lisa Williams info@, accounting@, classifieds@, subscriptions@islander.org ▼ Distribution Urbane Bouchet Ross Roberts Judy Loden Wasco (All others: news@islander.org) ▼

Single copies free. Quantities of five or more: 25 cents each. ©1992-2021 • Editorial, sales and production ofﬁces: 315 58th St., Suite J, Holmes Beach FL 34217 WeBSITe: islander.org Text or call: 941-778-7978

Your

Opinion

Thankful for Thanks-living

A very big thank you to everyone involved in making the Anna Maria Island Thanks-living celebration. There is nothing more important than bringing together community. Bringing us together in gratitude for each other and for our home has unmatched power and possibilities. Our businesses most generously contributed to the event, at which we listened to music, enjoyed food and learned a little more about our island and each other. We were reminded that we are valued as residents and of how very important it is for us to champion each other and support local enterprises. If more efforts were directed to this kind of connection in every community, we might just see very different and much more positive news stories. Just a thought. Deb Sneddon, Holmes Beach

Closed-off at Coquina

As a professional engineer who was licensed to practice in Florida, I have a comment about the state of the Coquina Beach parking lot in Bradenton Beach. We have been back in residence on Anna Maria Island for two weeks. In that time, we were at Coquina Beach or traveled by several times and did not notice any work in the closed-off north parking lot. On Nov. 28, I examined the parking lot up close and discovered the only work remaining to allow the opening of the lot would require two people for a day: One with a leaf blower and one with a walk-behind paint striper. At the end of that day, they could open the parking lot to public access. If I were the Manatee County parks director, I would be screaming. Richard Flannigan, Holmes Beach

Skimming online …

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Have your say

The Islander accepts letters of up to 250 words and reserves the right to edit for grammar and length. Letters must include name, address and a phone number (for verification). Email: news@ islander.org.

Islander archive 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 our collection of printed newspapers beginning with the first edition in 1992. Look online for Islander at the UofF Florida digital newspaper collection at ufdc. ufl.edu.

Dec. 8, 2021 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 7 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Holiday on wheels The Anna Maria Island Privateers ride along during their christmas parade on the island in December 1995. This year’s parade begins at 10 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 11, at coquina Beach in Bradenton Beach and travels north to city Pier Park in Anna Maria.

Looking back Crafting for Christmas Women help with organizing for the christmas Bazaar at St. Bernard catholic church, 248 S. Harbor Drive, Holmes Beach, in October 1980. Islander Photos: courtesy Manatee county Public Library System

10&20 years ago

In the Dec. 5, 2001, issue

• The state attorney’s office decided not to file charges against Anna Maria’s vice mayor for the removal of a meeting tape recording from city hall. An assistant state attorney said there was no evidence suggesting the elected official intended to keep the tape or tampered with the tape. • Sea turtle conservationists considered the installation of solar-powered, road-mounted lights as a possible alternative to pole-mounted street lights in the hope the new lights would lure fewer hatchlings away from the water and to their deaths. The decision, however, was up to the Florida Department of Transportation. • Debates over renourishment in Anna Maria flared as the day for commissioners to make a final decision approached. Opponents said the project might negatively impact the environment and that it was an infringement on the rights of beachfront property owners.

In the Dec. 7, 2011, issue

• An Anna Maria restaurant closed its doors on the Galati Marina property. Rotten Ralph’s ownership said a contract to sell the restaurant was signed and would allow the owners to focus on their business at the Historic Bridge Street Pier. • Construction of a new cafe building at Coquina Beach in Bradenton Beach was underway, estimated to cost about $162,000. Manatee County officials said time and salt air damaged the prior building. • Florida Fish and Wildlife law enforcement agents arrested two men for allegedly using a gill net in state waters northwest of Tidy Island. — Lisa Neff

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North Coquina parking lot approaching ﬁnish line in January By Tomas Gomez Islander Reporter

It’s been slow going but progress is being made at the parking lot project at Coquina Beach. The focus is on eliminating large swaths of standing rainwater that previously remained after storms. In March, phase two of a two-phase project to improve drainage and parking began at the Manatee County-managed Coquina Beach, which is at the south end of Bradenton Beach. County tourist development funds generated by the resort tax — the 5% tax on accommodations of six months or less — are being used for the project. American Pipeline Construction LLC began work in April on the parking lots, carrying out the county’s mission to prevent pooling and reduce stormwater flooding by installing underground pipes and drains and impervious concrete. The project also involved removing Australian pine trees, an invasive nonnative species, and plating native trees, including buttonwoods. The county focused on storm and floodwater resilience at Coquina Beach, where the land mass from Sarasota Bay to the Gulf of Mexico is narrow. Work on the south end, phase one of the two-phase project, was completed in the spring of 2020. The northernmost lot — subphase two — and the southern middle portion of the lot — subphase four — are in the final stages of development and should be completed by mid-January, county strategic affairs

procuring supplies and materials caused some delays, which prompted some concerns and complaints. Holmes Beach resident Richard Flannigan is retired after 40 years in construction and engineering. He frequents Coquina Beach and told The Islander the northern lot appeared nearly finished. “You get two guys out here and you could probably finish this all in a day or two,” Flannigan said Nov. 30. “The beach market opens here Sundays and Wednesdays. This lot not being open when it should be is a big inconvenience to those vendors,” he added. Clark said the northern lot is 90% done and then subphase four would be completed. “What’s left is the curing process, rubber stoppers and painting, as well as what they call punch-list items, say if you took something like a sign out of the ground and have to put it back,” Clark said. “There’s also work to certify things like the integrity of the asphalt by doing compression tests.” Richard Flannigan of Holmes Beach peruses the Clark said that he understood public concerns but North coquina parking lot Nov. 30, near a conalso said the results would be worth the wait. struction area in Bradenton Beach. Islander Photo: “Projects like this can take well over 300 days. So Tomas Gomez it’s hard to pick a time frame that won’t interfere with parking on the island,” Clark said. “But when all is manager Ogden Clark told The Islander Nov. 30. said and done, it will make the experience of parking Subphase three, south of subphase two, should be out there a bit better.” completed by September 2022, the end of the county’s The entire project cost is now at $3,447,313.77. fiscal year. It will provide spots for 904 standard vehicles and American Pipeline Construction’s difficulty in four RVs.

HB beautiﬁcation group agrees to $2,500 garden By Ryan Paice Islander Reporter

Changes are coming to Veterans Park in Holmes Beach. Parks and beautification committee members unanimously voted Dec. 1 to approve $2,500 to add 11 planters to the garden as a trial run for a proposed community garden. The committee is tasked with beautifying the city’s parks and open spaces and is allocated $10,000 a year from the city budget to make such improvements without the need for city approval. The committee has sought for several years to create a community garden where residents can pay to beautify and maintain plots. The board has singled out a city-owned vacant lot south of Grassy Point Preserve, 3021 Ave. C, for one such garden. However, the property first must gain approval from the city commission for the garden and a rezone from residential to recreational — a process that could take until mid-2022 to complete. Due to the delay, committee members shifted focus to Veterans Park, adjacent to the Island Library on the south side of city hall, 5801 Marina Drive, for a trial site. Committee chair Sage Kamiya, who previously requested cost estimates for the project, told members Dec. 1 the $2,500 would cover the addition of 11 planters around the fountain.

The planters will be the garden plots for people who pay to use the community garden. The funding also will cover the elevation of Veterans Park’s central flower bed to seed butterfly plants. The price does not include the cost of plants, which committee members agreed to select at a future meeting. Mack Lessig, a University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences’ community gardens program assistant, attended the meeting. He said the location would serve as a good testing ground but added that the city-owned vacant lot south of Grassy Point would work better as a permanent community garden given its size and the amount of sunlight it receives. Committee members asked Lessig to return to a future meeting to help them create a fully-fledged community garden and he agreed. Kamiya presented additional plans for Veterans Park, such as the addition of a memorial wall for veterans from Anna Maria Island who had served or died in military service. He said that, despite the location’s name, there is nothing memorializing local veterans. Committee members expressed support for the idea. “If we’re going to beautify it, we might as well make it what it’s supposed to be — a veteran’s park,” Mary Catherine Melancon said. “There’s nothing there for them right now.” Committee members reached consensus to direct

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Kamiya to prepare plans and cost estimates for the memorial wall. The committee will meet next at 10 a.m. Wednesday, Jan. 5, at city hall. The meeting is open to the public with masks recommended. Instructions to attend via teleconference are available at holmesbeachfl. org.

Dec. 8, 2021 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 9 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Longboat Key seeks help funding replacement sewer line By Lisa Neff Islander editor

Did they hear a quiet ask? Manatee County commissioners, who met Dec. 1 with Longboat Key officials to discuss town projects, services and needs, heard a subtle — and unspecific — request for assistance in replacing a 48-year-old wastewater pipeline that runs under Sarasota Bay. Longboat Key public works director Isaac Brownman and town manager Tom Harmer reviewed for county commissioners plans to replace the sub-aqueous force main, along with the costs. “We’re trying to take a $21 million project and figure out how we can minimize rate impacts,” Harmer said. Near the end of the presentation, Commissioner Kevin Van Ostenbridge, who represents the town, Anna Maria Island and much of west Manatee, inquired: Is the town asking for financial assistance? Indeed, the town is seeking help but Harmer didn’t provide any figures. “We’re taking this incrementally,” he said. “Trying to eat the elephant one bite a time.”

A section of the failed Longboat Key wastewater pipe is stored at the town’s public works department. Islander courtesy Photo

The iron pipeline the town seeks to replace extends about 3.5 miles from Longboat Key across the bottom of Sarasota Bay to the mainland, ending at a county treatment facility. Some 47 lift stations move Longboat Key wastewater to a Gulf Bay Road station, where the affluent is pumped into the 1973-built force main that was put

into service in 1975. A 2016-17 assessment indicated the existing line would last another 20-25 years, according to Brownman. However, a leak in the pipeline was discovered June 29, 2020, on the mainland about 400 feet from the bay. The line was repaired June 30, 2020, but in reaching the rupture, repair crews destroyed mangroves. The incident resulted in Longboat Key entering an agreement — a consent order — with the Florida Department of Environmental Protection in February to mitigate damages. Brownman said the town would continue work to satisfy the consent order in 2022. Also, permitting for a new pipeline was funded in January 2020 and the town continues to work on the project with engineering contractors, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. The town awaits some state and federal reviews associated with the feasibility of replacing the line, Brownman said.

Anna Maria bids goodbye to retiring clerk By Ryan Paice Islander Reporter

Another familiar face is leaving the city of Anna Maria. City officials and employees gathered Dec. 3 in city hall’s commission chambers to surprise deputy clerk Debbie Haynes with a retirement party after six years of employment. Mayor Dan Murphy started the party by giving Haynes a key to the city and thanking her for her efforts as an employee. Murphy added that while Haynes would continue to work for the city as a consultant for a limited time. He did not detail how long Haynes would be employed as a consultant. After the presentation, Haynes gave her farewells and thanks to both officials and staff. Haynes, a Massachusetts native who moved to Florida in 1994, told The Islander Dec. 3 that she found her way to Anna Maria Island with her husband, Bob, in 2014.

RoadWatch Eyes on the road

The Florida Department of Transportation posted the following notices: • State Road 789/Gulf Drive at the intersection with Avenue C south to Ninth Street North in Bradenton Beach: Crews are replacing the east sidewalk with permeable pavers. Expect lane closures and flagging operations, as well as construction noise. The contractor is AF USA Construction Corp. The project is expected to be completed late this year. — Lisa Neff

The couple purchased a home and moved to Holmes Beach after moving around the state — at which point Haynes was looking for work. Despite a career in banking, she said she wanted to try something new. “I just kind of saw the ad for a part-time administrative assistant and I said, ‘Oh, that would be different! I’ve never worked for government,’” Haynes said. She started working for the city in December 2015 and called her time since “amazing.” “This has been something so totally different for me, but I’ve enjoyed it immensely,” Haynes said. “I was not expecting to have this be another career.” Haynes said she was proudest of her work organizing city events, such as the market at City Pier Park and the Veterans Day parades. The parade “started very small and it grew to what it was this year, which was amazing,” she said. “Same thing with the farmers market. We had to beg vendors to come out. … Now look at it. We’re up to 13 vendors and it’s such a popular event.” Moving forward, Haynes said she was excited to travel across the country and visit family and national parks with her husband.

Anna Maria Mayor Dan Murphy, right, hands a key to the city Dec. 3 to retiring deputy clerk Debbie Haynes. Haynes has worked for the city since 2015. Islander Photo: Ryan Paice

MCAT’s fare-free shuttle service to island resumes A bus will loop between Bradenton and the beach resumed Dec. 4, providing free rides on and off Anna Maria Island. Manatee County Area Transit’s fare-free Beach ConneXion operates weekends and holidays through April. The hours are 10 a.m.-6 p.m., with passengers boarding at the Manatee Avenue bus stop east of 75th Street West in Bradenton, the Manatee Public Beach in Holmes Beach and several stops along Manatee Avenue/State Road 64 between the turnarounds.

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Parking on the mainland is available at the Beachway Plaza in the 7300 block of Manatee Avenue. The shuttle adds to other MCAT services on Manatee Avenue and helps riders connect with the fare-free island trolley that operates seven days a week between Coquina Beach in Bradenton Beach and the Anna Maria City Pier in Anna Maria. For more information about the services, go online to mymanatee.org or call the county at 941748-4501. — Lisa Neff

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Island happenings

Page 10 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Dec. 8, 2021 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Toy drive continues

A team of island businesses is collecting toys to stuff Santa’s sack. The businesses are taking donations for the annual Toys for Tots program launched nearly 75 years ago by the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve to provide gifts to children during the holiday season. Since 1947, the global campaign has collected toys, books and other gifts for more than 272 million children. On Anna Maria Island, people can drop off unwrapped gifts at the following locations through Wednesday, Dec. 15: • Holmes Beach: A Paradise Realty, 5201 Gulf Drive; Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce, 5313 Gulf Drive; Duffy’s Tavern, 5808 Marina Drive; the Feast Restaurant, 5406 Marina Drive; Grooms Motors and Automotive, 5608 Marina Drive; Holmes Beach Post Office, 5354 Gulf Drive; Hurricane Hanks, 5346 Gulf Drive; Publix Super Market, 3900 E. Bay Drive; and the Waterline Resort, 5325 Marina Drive. • Anna Maria: Center of Anna Maria Island, 407 Magnolia Ave., and the U.S. post office, 101 S. Bay Blvd. • Cortez: Slicker’s Eatery, 12012 Cortez Road W., Cortez. For more, visit www.toysfortots.org.

Off Stage Ladies to lunch, celebrate holidays

The Off Stage Ladies auxiliary that supports the Island Players will meet for lunch and a holiday celebration at noon Wednesday, Dec. 8, at Cipriano Cucina and Bar, 3561 53rd Ave. W., Bradenton. Plans include a “Secret Santa” gift exchange. The cost to attend is $26. For more information, call Roe Duncan at 941.932-2798.

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

The Skullywag leads the christmas armada on Pine Avenue in December 2018 in the Anna Maria Island Privateers christmas Parade. This year, the Dec. 11 parade will travel from coquina Beach to city Pier Park. Islander File Photo: Karen Riley-

Pirates, Santa to join Christmas parade Dec. 11 Listen for the booms blasted from the Anna Maria Island Privateers’ ship cannon. Listen for the bells jingling on Santa’s ride. Both signal the annual Christmas parade is on its way on Anna Maria Island. The Privateers will present the krew’s annual parade Saturday, Dec. 11. The red and green, silver and gold celebration will take off about 10 a.m. from Coquina Beach in Bradenton Beach and travel north to City Pier Park at the intersection of Pine Avenue and North Bay Boulevard in Anna Maria. The Privateers lead the processional and Santa,

aboard his sleigh, follows at the end of the parade, beckoning children to join the party. Parade entries — motorized or peddled and decorated for the holidays — must assemble at Coquina by 9:30 a.m. On arrival at City Pier Park at about 11:30 a.m., AMIP will host a holiday party, with Santa handing out presents to children. To register for the parade, which is free, go online to amiprivateers.memberlodge.org. For more information, email Valerie “Dallas” Mabry at liaison@privateers.org.

Anna Maria makes merry with carols, holiday walk The big man from the North Pole will visit the island’s north end Friday, Dec. 10. The annual Holiday of Walk of Treasures will take place 4-8 p.m. in the commercial areas of Anna Maria. Anna Maria businesses will host open houses 5:30-8 p.m., offering light bites and libations to the sounds of Christmas carols.

And the Anna Maria Island Historical Society will welcome merrymakers to the museum at 402 Pine Ave. Also, the city will host a giftgiving Santa and encourage holiday caroling during Santa Stops Here, set for 4-5:30 p.m. in the City Pier Park at the intersection of Pine Avenue and North Bay Boulevard. For more information, call city hall at 941-7086130.

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Island happenings

Dec. 8, 2021 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 11 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

compiled by Lisa Neff, calendar@islander.org.

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT ON AMi

Tillman Thomas of Grumpy’s Farm Market packs up produce Nov. 23 as the Anna Maria Farmer’s Market begins to close for the day. Islander Photo: Ryan Paice

Anna Maria Island Garden Club members will gather at 11:30 a.m. Wednesday, Dec. 15, for a general meeting. The club meets monthly October-April at Roser Memorial Community Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. A look at the rest of the club calendar for the 2021-22 season: • 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 19, 2022, fashion show. • 11:30 a.m. Wednesday, Feb. 16, general meeting. • 1-3 p.m. Wednesday, March 16, flower show. • 11:30 a.m. Wednesday, April 20, general meeting. For more information about the garden club, call Gerry Mills at 941-920-5929.

Seafood, music fest set for Bradenton in December

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Two Holmes Beach galleries — Island Gallery West and the Artists’ Guild Gallery — will extend their hours Friday, Dec. 10, for the season’s second art walk. The art walk will be 5:30-7:30 p.m. and may include additional businesses in the city center at Marina and Gulf drives. No announcement listing participants was provided at The Islander’s press time. Island Gallery West, 5368 Gulf Drive, will host an open house for the artists participating in its December exhibit, “Good Things Come in Small Packages.” The Artists’ Guild Gallery, 5414 Marina Drive, also will host an open house for its exhibit, featuring artist-crafted ornaments. For more information, call IGW at 941-7786648 or the Guild Gallery at 941-778-6694.

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AheAD ON AMi Jan. 13, ﬁrst Friends of the Island Library 2022 lecture, Holmes Beach. Jan. 22, Center of Anna Maria Island concert with Lou Gramm, Anna Maria. ONGOiNG OFF AMi 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. PLeASe, See CALENDAR, NeXT PAGe CUSTOM . HANDCRAFTED . VINTAGE

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Bradenton’s Riverwalk will be the site of the Bradenton Seafood & Music Festival this month. The festival — 4-10 p.m. Friday, Dec. 17, 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 18 and 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 19 — is free to attend. The festival will feature seafood and other food vendors, as well as rock, blues, folk, soul, funk, and rhythm and blues performers. For more information, go online to paragonartevents.com or call Paragon Festivals at 941-4878061.

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Friday, Dec. 10 5:30--7:30 p.m. — holmes Beach Art walk, Marina and Gulf drives, holmes Beach. information: 941-778-6648. Saturday, Dec. 11 8 p.m. — The wailers concert, Center of Anna Maria island, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria. Fee applies. information: 941-7781908.

Page 12 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Dec. 8, 2021 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

‘One World’ show arriving to Center of Anna Maria Island FROM PAGe 11

The Wailers will kick off the 2021-22 Bradenton Gulf Island Concert Series with a Saturday, Dec. 11, outdoor performance at the Center of Anna Maria Island. The reggae band is on a “One World” tour and will perform on the sports field at the center, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria. The gates will open at 6 p.m. and the show will begin at 7 p.m. People should bring chairs or blankets but cannot bring food or beverages into the venue, where there will be a cash bar and refreshments sold. For more information and ticket purchases, go online to centerami.org or call the center at 941778-1908.

Saturdays, 9 a.m.-2 p.m., Bradenton Farmers Market, Main street, downtown Bradenton. information: realizebradenton.com, 941-301-8445. Second and fourth Saturdays, noon-2 p.m., Chickee hut Jammers session, presented by the Florida Maritime Museum and Cortez Cultural Center, outdoors, 4415 119th st. w., Cortez. information: ﬂoridamaritimemuseum.org, fmminfo@ manateeclerk.com. “Battles of the Boneless” exhibit, the Bishop Museum of science and Nature, 201 10th St. W., Bradenton. Fee applies. Information: bishopmuseum.org, 941-746-4131. Through Jan. 16, 2022, “Prints, Ceramics and Glass from Japan,” John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, 5401 Bay shore Road, sarasota. Fee applies. information: ringling.org, 941-359- 6341. 5700. AheAD ON AMi Through August 2022, “Seeing the Invisible” augmented reality Dec. 28, ﬁrst “Movies in the Park” of the season, Anna Maria. exhibit, Marie selby Botanical Gardens, 1534 Mound st., sarasota. Fee applies. information: selby.org, 941-366-5731. ONGOiNG OFF AMi

6341. saturdays, 8:30 a.m., kiwanis Club of Anna Maria island meeting, Gulf Drive Cafe, 900 Gulf Drive N., Bradenton Beach. information: 941-778-1383. Tuesdays, 8:30 a.m.-2 p.m., Farmers Market in the Park, City Pier Park, Pine Avenue and Bay Boulevard, Anna Maria. information: 941-708-6130. Tuesdays, 11:30 a.m. — Mahjong Club, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, holmes Beach. information: mymanatee.org/library, 941-778-6341. AheAD ON AMi February 2022, Friends of the Island Library Book Sale, Anna Maria. OFF AMi Wednesday, Dec. 8 Noon — Off Stage Ladies lunch and secret Santa exchange, Cipriano Cucina and Bar, 3561 53rd Ave. w., Bradenton. Fee applies. Information: 941-932-2798. ONGOiNG OFF AMi

Wednesdays, 3 p.m., the Longboat Key Paradise Center for Healthy Living “Grieve Not Alone: Peer Support Group,” 546 Bay Isles Road, Longboat Key. Information: theparadisecenter.org, 941383-6493. Tuesdays, noon, Rotary Club of Anna Maria island lunch meeting, Compass Hotel by Margaritaville, 12324 Manatee Ave. KIDS & FAMILY First wednesdays, 5:30 p.m., “soar in 4 Family Night, the W., Perico Island. Second Tuesdays at 5 p.m. Information: 941-920Bishop Museum of Science and Nature, 201 10th St. W., Braden- 2505. ON AMi ton. Fee applies. information: soarin4.org, 941-746-4131. Friday, Dec. 10 OUTDOORS & saturdays and sundays, 3 p.m., Tales Under the Tree, the 10 a.m. — Forty Carrots, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Bishop Museum of Science and Nature, 201 10th St. W., Bradenton. SPORTS holmes Beach. information: mymanatee.org/library, 941-778- Fee applies. information: bishop.org, 941-746-4131. ONGOiNG ON AMi 6341. CLUBS & 4-5:30 p.m. — Anna Maria’s “santa stops here” holiday celAMi Dragon Boat Team—Paddlers COMMUNITY ebration with santa, City Pier Park, 103 N. Bay Blvd., Anna Maria. from Paradise practices and meetups, variinformation: 941-708-6130. ous times and locations. information: 941ON AMi 4-8 p.m. — Anna Maria holiday walk of Treasures open house, 462-2626, mrbradway@gmail.com. Gulf Drive, Pine Avenue and Bay Boulevard, Anna Maria. informa- Wednesday, Dec. 8 OFF AMi 11:30 a.m. — Anna Maria island Garden club general meeting, tion: 941-708-6130 Roser Memorial Community Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Saturday, Dec. 11 Saturday, Dec. 11 10 a.m. — Anna Maria island Privateers Christmas Parade, Information: 941-920-5929. 8:30 a.m. — Manatee County Audubon society birding tour, 6:30 p.m. — Island Time Book Club, Island Library, 5701 Perico Preserve, 11700 Manatee Ave. w., Perico island. ReserCoquina Beach in Bradenton Beach to City Pier Park in Anna Maria. Marina Drive, holmes Beach. information: mymanatee.org/library, vations required. Information: 386-279-3789, zholmes003@gmail. information: amiprivateers.memberlodge.org. 10 a.m. — Origami Club, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, 941-778-6341. com. holmes Beach. information: mymanatee.org/library, 941-778- Thursday, Dec. 9 1 p.m. — Native Little One Art club crafting, Robinson Pre11 a.m.-2 p.m. — Blood drive, Island Library, 5701 Marina serve expansion, 840 99th st. Nw, Bradenton. information: 9416341. 2 p.m. — Crafting snowﬂakes, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, holmes Beach. information: 941-778-6341. 447-8862. Drive, holmes Beach. information: mymanatee.org/library, 9413 p.m. — Families Flock Together: holiday in the sun crafts and ONGOiNG ON AMi 778-6341. games, Robinson Preserve North, 1704 99th st. Nw, Bradenton. Fridays, 11:30 a.m., Mahjong Club, Island Library, 5701 Marina Information: 941-742-5923. Tuesday, Dec. 14 10 a.m.— Family storytime, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Drive, holmes Beach. information: mymanatee.org/library, 941-778ONGOiNG OFF AMi holmes Beach. information: mymanatee.org/library, 941-778saturdays, 8 a.m., Robinson Runners running club, Robinson Preserve expansion, 840 99th st. Nw, Bradenton. information: mymanatee.org, 941-742-5923, ext. 6047. saturdays, 9 a.m., saturday Mornings at the NesT nature exploration, Robinson Preserve expansion, 840 99th st. Nw, Bradenton. Information: mymanatee.org, 941-742-5923, ext. 6047. saturdays once a month, Manatee County Audubon society workday, Felts Preserve, 4600 24th Ave. E., Palmetto. Information: manateeaudubon.org, zholmes003@gmail.com.

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Dec. 8, 2021 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 13 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

AME 1st-graders clean up, study sea turtle habitat

AmE NEWS By Ryan Paice

Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring volunteers Karen and chuck Anderson Nov. 30 chat with Anna Maria elementary first-graders about the sea turtle habitat along the island’s beaches during a class field trip. The students later grabbed trash pickers and buckets and cleaned the shoreline. AMe First-graders take a short walk Nov. 30 from the school at 4700 Gulf Drive to the beach access at 48th Street in Holmes Beach for a lesson on sea turtles.

School days

The Islander welcomes photos and notices of student achievements, accolades and just old-school good times. Email news@islander.org

School choice enrollment window opens ’Tis the season to select schools. The School District of Manatee County’s open enrollment period began Dec. 1. Parents have until Friday, Dec. 31, to apply to send their children to another K-12 public school in 2022-23 rather than their zoned school. Parents interested in applying for school choice for 2022-23 must enroll via the district’s FOCUS portal and link their account with their child’s to access an application form. School choice applications for the current school year are closed. Due to capacity limitations, winning school choice applications are selected by lottery in January, with results emailed to applicants in February. Students enrolled in school choice next year will not be eligible for bus transportation, with few exceptions. Instead, transportation of students to and from school is the responsibility of parents or guardians. Anna Maria Elementary, Anna Maria Island’s only public school, relies on school choice to fill its classrooms.

According to principal Michael Masiello, 44% of the school’s student body chose to enroll at the school over their zoned schools. Masiello encouraged parents interested in applying for AME school choice in a Dec. 2 email to The Islander. “AME is a small community school with a very caring staff and a community that supports our school at all times,” Masiello wrote. “(AME) is known for its commitment to academic excellence for all students. We work in partnership with teachers, parents and the community to ensure all students are successful.” He also touted the school’s state designation as a “School of Excellence,” adding that its students “routinely top the district in standardized test scores.” Masiello wrote that parents could call him at 941-708-5525, ext. 2001, with any questions or to request a tour of the school. People can learn more about school choice enrollment or sign up for a FOCUS account online, at manateeschools.net/schoolchoice.

AME Calendar

• Dec. 6-10, scholastic book fair. • Dec. 14, 6:30 p.m., ﬁfth-grade play, no dinner. • Dec. 16, third-grade ﬁeld trip, Manatee High School, “The Nutcracker” performance. • Dec. 21, end of semester. • Dec. 22-31, winter holiday break. • Jan. 6, students return. • Jan. 10, 3:30 p.m., PTO board meeting. • Jan. 17, Martin Luther King Jr. Day, no school. Anna Maria elementary is at 4700 Gulf Drive, holmes Beach. For more information, call the school at 941-708-5525.

Wishes to fulﬁll The Islander’s Wish Book 2021 published Nov. 24 and is available online at islander.org. The Wish Book contains lists of needs — and wants — for local nonprofits that provide services on Anna Maria Island. Please help The Islander make wishes come true. MAKE A WISH COME TRUE AND A HOLIDAY MERRY

The holidays are the time to take an extra

you to share the holiday spirit and help others.

Anna Maria elementary first-graders don safety vests Nov. 30 and, equipped with grabbers, spread out to collect trash during a field trip to the beach to learn about the environment.

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Page 14 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Dec. 8, 2021 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Tidings

Gathering

REGULAR WORSHIP

By Lisa Neff

Churches celebrate season with music, lights

Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, will present its Christmas Cantata at Sunday worship services Dec. 19. The Roser Cantata Choir, accompanied by a chamber orchestra, will perform “Sing Joy to the World!” Services will be at 8:30 a.m. and 10 a.m. at the church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. For more, call Roser at 941-778-0414. Also, CrossPointe Fellowship plans to present a Christmas concert at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 15. The church is at 8605 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. For more, call CrossPointe at 941-778-0719. Meanwhile, on Longboat Key, the Longboat Island Chapel continues a series of evening events through Jan. 2. The celebration of lights and music begins at dusk and continues until 9 p.m. each night, either in the chapel or the garden on the chapel grounds at 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key. The celebration includes holiday music, lights, decorated trees and, on select nights, musical performances and refreshments. For more information, call the chapel at 941-3836491 or go online to longboatislandchapel.org.

Roser hosts blood drive

The Big Red Bus will roll up to Roser Memorial Community Church at 8:30 a.m. Sunday, Dec. 12. The church will host a blood drive with OneBlood before and after Sunday worship. The drive will be 8:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Donors will receive a wellness checkup that includes screening for blood pressure, temperature, iron count and cholesterol. To make an appointment, go online to www. oneblooddonor.org. Masks are required for blood donors. For more, call the church at 941-778-0414.

Monday-Friday 8:30 a.m. — St. Bernard Catholic Church, 248 S. Harbor Drive, holmes Beach. information: 941-778-4769, stbernardcc.com. Thursdays 9:30 a.m. — episcopal Church of the Annunciation, 4408 Gulf Drive, holmes Beach. information: 941-778-1638, amiannunciation. org. Saturdays 4 p.m. — st. Bernard Catholic Church. Sundays 8 a.m. — episcopal Church of the Annunciation. 8:30 a.m. — st. Bernard Catholic Church. 8:30 a.m. — Roser Memorial Community Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. information: 941-778-0414, roserchurch.com. 9 a.m. — CrossPointe Fellowship, 8605 Gulf Drive, holmes Beach. information: 941-778-0719, crosspointefellowship.church. 9:15 a.m. — harvey Memorial Community Church, 300 Church Ave., Bradenton Beach. Information: 941-779-1912. 9:30 a.m. — Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, 6608 Marina Drive. holmes Beach. information: 941-778-1813, gloriadeilutheran.com. 10 a.m. — Roser Church. 10 a.m. — Christ Church of Longboat Key Presbyterian USA, 6400 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key. Information: 941-9004903, christchurchoﬂbk.org.

GoodDeeds

WE TWEET TOO @ami_islander

Special Christmas Messiah December 12 at 10:00 AM Christ Church is pleased to feature the Christmas portion of Handel's crowning achievement. Our Chancel Choir, professional soloists and orchestra will present this joyful holiday event during our regular Sunday Service.

Visitors & Residents Welcome • Free Event 941.383.8833 (oﬃce)

•

wednesdays, 8 a.m., CrossPointe Fellowship men’s breakfast meeting. Most wednesdays, 8 a.m., episcopal Church of the Annunciation men’s breakfast meeting. wednesdays, 6:45 p.m., CrossPointe Fellowship wednesday Night Blast. Thursdays, 7 p.m., Roser Church chancel choir rehearsals. Thursdays, 9:30 a.m., Roser Church Roser Robics ﬁtness. Tuesdays, 9:30 a.m., Roser Church Roser Robics ﬁtness. Special events Through Jan. 2, 2022, dusk, Longboat Island Chapel holiday celebrations. Dec. 12, 8:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m., Roser Church blood drive. Dec. 15, 7 p.m., CrossPointe Fellowship Christmas concert. SAVE THE DATES Dec. 19, Roser Church Christmas Cantata. Dec. 24, Christmas Eve. Dec. 25, Christmas Day. Please, send notices to calendar@islander.org.

compiled by Lisa Neff

• The Island Players seeks volunteers for the theater, including house managers, backstage and prop crews, web experts and actors. Info: 508 965-5665. • Ministry of Presence Inc. seeks medications and monetary donations to aid earthquake victims in Haiti, donations to The Islander, 315 58th St., Holmes Beach, or mail to MoP, P.O. Box 770, Oneco, FL 34264. • Senior Adventurers group seeks events coordinators and a van driver for Friday outings. Information: 941-447-5076 • Moonracer Animal Rescue seeks volunteers to offer foster and forever homes for rescued animals. Information: 941-345-2441. • The Roser Food Bank seeks donations. Roser Memorial Community Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, administers the pantry, supported by All Island Denominations. Information: 941-778-0414. • Keep Manatee Beautiful seeks volunteers for cleanups and other efforts. Info: 941-795-8272.

Sunday Service - 10:00 AM The Rev. Dr. Norman Pritchard

•

ONGOING EVENTS

Assistance sought and delivered on AMI

Growing in Jesus’ Name

6400 Gulf of Mexico Dr.

10 a.m. — Longboat Island Chapel, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key. Information: 941-383-6491, longboatislandchapel. org. 10:15 a.m. — episcopal Church of the Annunciation. 10:30 a.m. — st. Bernard.

www.christchurchlbk.org

SUN, DEC 12 8:30 & 10:00 Casey Mancuso, Guest Vocalist 8:30 to 1:00 Blood Drive Stop by the Big Red Bus! oneblood.org

• The Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce and a number of local businesses are collecting donations for the Toys for Tots holiday campaign. Information: 941-778-1541.

Assistance offered

• The Roser Food Bank welcomes applicants who live and/or work on Anna Maria Island for food assistance, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Information: 941-778-0414. • AID offers help to those who live on the island, go to church on the island, attend school on the island and work on the island. Information: 941-725-2433.

Obituary

Lisa Ann Kautzman Baker

Lisa Ann Kautzman Baker, 60, of Holmes Beach, died Nov. 27. She loved deeply her volunteer work and friends at Southeastern Guide Dogs. A celebration of life was held Dec. 4 at Brown & Sons Funeral Homes & Crematory 43rd Street Chapel in Bradenton. Memorial donations may be made to Southeastern Guide Dogs or MU Brothers Workshop in St. Thomas, USVI. Condolences may be made online at www.brownandsonsfuneral.com. She is survived by her husband, Bob, and his sons Jared and Nathan, sisters, Lynda, Lindsay and Susan and many others.

SUNDAY WORSHIP • 8:30 AM or 10:00 AM COMMUNITY CHURCH • Sermon Series by Rev. Dirk Rodgers

Rediscover… why Christmas truly matters

IN PERSON in the Sanctuary Nursery • Children’s Church

ONLINE � Watch LIVE or LATER

www.RoserChurch.com Text ROSER to 22828 to receive the weekly eBulletin

The CHAPEL is open during office hours for prayer and meditation

941-778-0414 • 512 Pine Ave, Anna Maria IMG_5433.JPG • FOLLOW us on Facebook @RoserChurch

11/13/2020

Bring a new unwrapped toy by Dec. 10 and receive $50 OFF four Toyo Tires.

Dec. 8, 2021 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 15 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Holy Night reenactment The annual Bethlehem Walk put on Dec. 5 by Roser Memorial community church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, included people in period attire recreating the night Jesus was born. A news release, said, “We take to the streets of beautiful Anna Maria to reenact the mystery and joy of that Holy night! The Bethlehem Walk is exciting for people of all ages.” Participants walk from “inn to inn,” singing carols as Mary and Joseph search for shelter for the birth of a child. After the journey, back at the church, the participants and church members share fellowship and refreshments. Jaworski is the church office administrator and Meehan is Roser’s financial administrator. Islander Photos: courtesy Bev Hunsberger

Call goes out for island food pantry help The volunteer-run Roser Food Pantry, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, is seeking donations to feed hungry island residents and employees this holiday season. Money will be used to support the pantry’s Sponsored Food Recipient Program, which allows people to anonymously seek food assistance after receiving approval from a sponsor — an island church. Recipients receive $100-$150 Publix gift cards every month for around three months before sponsors must approve another round of assistance. The benefits make a difference, based on testimonials collected by pantry volunteers: • “The Publix gift card was (instrumental) for me to get my bills and mortgage back on track. That extra help along with my cutting back helped me out of debt and on the way to stressless days. As a single-income household, when no one would help, with all the supposed grants out there through

COVID, you were the only ones that offered relief. I am forever grateful.” • “Toward the end of the month, my Social Security check is basically gone. Well, actually it’s pretty much gone right after I pay rent. So when I receive a food card on the first of the month, I feel such a sense of relief and thankfulness to be able to go to the store and buy food for my family. Your generosity enables me also to take food every day to my husband in the nursing home. He can’t remember much but he sure remembers he’s hungry and food makes us all feel loved.” People can donate to the food pantry by visiting roserchurch.com/give, calling 941-778-0414 or delivering unopened, nonperishable food items to the church 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Monday-Friday. People also can find assistance by calling 941778-0414. — Ryan Paice

Privateers seek gift donations for families in need The Anna Maria Island Privateers want to make Christmas extra special for local families in need this year. In addition to helping individual families, the group is assisting families at Hope Family Services, which operates a “store” set up so families can shop free of charge for necessities. The Privateers invite people to support the cam-

Mary, portrayed by Nikkiah Jaworski, and Joseph, portrayed by Matt Meehan, emerge at Roser church following the Bethlehem walk with baby Jesus.

paign by shopping from their Amazon wish list — https://amzn.to/3cmmpDd — as purchases automatically will be sent to the nonprofit for donations. Editor’s note: To click on a direct link, go to the Anna Maria Island Privateers’ Facebook page. “Anna Maria Island,” a signed pictorial history book of the island by Bonner Joy, is available for $20 at The Islander office, 315 58th St., Holmes Beach, or by mail. Visit islander.org or call 941-778-7978. $20 plus postage, if applicable.

A sweet reopening A “bring-your-own-sandwich” luncheon commemorating the Nov. 9 reopening of the remodeled guild thrift shop. The shop, which opened in 1997, had been closed due to the pandemic. The icing on the cake makes the point. For opening days and hours, call Roser at 941-778-0414. Islander Photo: courtesy Peggy Nash

You’re invited to

Christmas in the Garden A Celebration of Lights and Music

Please, join us in the lush and peaceful Friendship Garden at the Longboat Island Chapel every evening Nov. 28-Jan. 2 from dusk until 9 p.m., for holiday music and lighting along with beautifully decorated Christmas trees donated by community organizations, businesses and friends. On select evenings, we will celebrate the holidays with special musical presentations, refreshments and treats for the children with performances beginning at 6 p.m.

❄ Dec. 12, John Patti, An Island Christmas ❄ Dec. 15, Peter Simms & Jane Hoffman, Guitar & Flute

❄ Dec. 20, Christmas Caroling Led by Join us for OPEN HOUSE 9-2 Friday Dec. 10 and 8-noon Saturday Dec. 11 Located at Sunny Shores off Cortez Road Turn north from Cortez Road into Sunny Shores at 115th Street West, turn left at first STOP sign.

11703 40th Ave. W. • Bradenton 941-794-1226

Charlie Shook, Pastor Emeritus, and a Surprise visit from Santa Claus

❄ Dec. 22, Dinah Piotrowski & James Scherz, Violin and Accordion Duo

Admission to Christmas in the Garden is free – just bring your holiday spirit and celebrate the season with us! 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive Longboat Key 941-383-6491 LONGBOATISLANDCHAPEL ORG

Page 16 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Dec. 8, 2021 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

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Page 18 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Dec. 8, 2021 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Christmas in Holmes Beach People look on Dec. 3 as the christmas tree sparks to life in the parking lot of the Shops at Waterline Plaza at Gulf and Marina drives in Holmes Beach. The Anna Maria Island chamber of commerce sponsored the tree lighting and a holiday walkabout in the downtown area.

Hayden Thorp, 8, shares her christmas wish list with Santa claus Dec. 3 at the celebration at the Waterline Plaza in Holmes Beach. The Anna Maria Island Privateers, a nonprofit organization, brought Santa’s sleigh and organized the visits with Santa. Islander Photos: Ryan Paice

Christmas in Cortez

Jeremy Allain, 2, asks Santa for a tyrannosaurus rex for christmas Dec. 4 at the Florida Maritime Museum during christmas in cortez festivities.

Kids create birds Dec. 4 at a craft table outside at the Florida Maritime Museum’s christmas in cortez event. Islander Photos: Ryan Paice

Nolan Torrey, 10, left, and Manuela Brentt, 12, let out screams as they careen down a hill of snow Dec. 4 at christmas in cortez. Islander Photos: Ryan Paice

Santa claus rocks out Dec. 4 as the Manatee High School drumline lead his way to the fun times at the Lester Family Fun Day at the center of Anna Maria Island, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria. Islander Photos: Ryan Paice

Christmas at the center A red helicopter “pirate ship” drops golf balls Dec. 4 — a raffle event that highlights the finale of Lester Family Fun Day at the center. The holder of the ball that lands closest to the mark on the ground claims a cash prize from the ticket sales. The golf balls sold for $100 — but no word form the center on the winner or the amount he or she won. Islander Photo: courtesy Aris Thompson

Santa claus visits with Joey and chuck Lester Dec. 4 at Fun Day. The Lesters are longtime supporters of the center who 19 years ago conceived Family Fun Day as an old-fashioned holiday celebration. They continue to sponsor the annual event. Islander Photo: courtesy Aris Thompson

Dec. 8, 2021 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 19 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

The 40-foot tall christmas Tree lights up the parking lot of the Bradenton Beach Post Office and provides a photo backdrop for Santa’s sleigh and christmas on Bridge Street festivalgoers. Islander Photos: Tomas Gomez

BeLOW: carter, 4, of Bradenton gets his face painted with reindeer antlers at the Bridge Street Bistro by Winter Kelly of Darling Little Faces.

The third annual Bradenton Beach Boat Parade saw 21 boats traveling the Intracoastal Waterway from Longboat Pass Bridge, to the Historic Bridge Street Pier — the finale to christmas on Bridge Street — a day of festive activities. The events were part of Holidays in Paradise. “It’s like nothing that’s ever happened on the island. It’s the community coming together. If you’d been here 20 or 30 years ago, you would never believe something like this could happen here in Bradenton Beach on Anna Maria Island,” said Bradenton Beach Mayor John chappie. Islander Photo: Marianne ellis

Christmas in Bradenton Beach

Shawn Warner and Zeke provide shuttle rides for visitors to and from the festivities on Bridge Street.

“I’m going to say probably 6,000-8,000 people were here today. The pier was packed like sardines,” Bradenton Beach Police chief John cosby said, while overseeing the crowd at christmas on Bridge Street, part of the Holidays in Paradise celebration that continues through Jan. 1.

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Page 20 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Dec. 8, 2021 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

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Streetlife

A golf cart was struck head-on by a vehicle on Palm Drive in Holmes Beach Nov. 29, leaving the cart’s operator, Anna Maria resident Jana Samuels, in critical condition. Islander Photos: HBPD

Staff reports

Island police reports

Anna Maria No new reports. The Manatee County Sheriff’s Office polices Anna Maria. Bradenton Beach Nov. 29, Circle K, 103 Gulf Drive S., Circle K surveillance video showed a man puncturing a tire on a tow truck and then fleeing north on Gulf Drive after shouting something like “I got you” at the vehicle’s owner. Officers from the Bradenton Beach Police Department searched but did not find the man. Video was provided by Circle K for the investigation. Nov. 29, 100 Block of 10th Street North, property damage. A vehicle rolled into a concrete wall at a condo complex after a driver forgot to put the vehicle in park. A case number was issued to the driver and a victim’s right packet provided to the condo complex representative. Bradenton Beach is policed by the Bradenton Beach Police Department. Cortez No new reports. The MCSO polices Cortez. Holmes Beach Nov. 24, 100 block of 49th Street, domestic assault. A Holmes Beach police officer responded to reports of a domestic incident and found a man waiting outside who said his wife was drunk and throwing items at him, including a glass vase. The officer entered the home to speak with the woman, who refused to cooperate with police. The officer arrested her and transported her to Manatee County jail. Nov. 25, 4700 block of Gulf Drive, traffic incident. An officer responded to reports of a crash and found a woman getting treatment from emergency medical services. She told the officer she was struck by a vehicle while using a crosswalk but she got up and left shortly after. She said did not get the driver’s information and only reported the incident at her family’s request. She reported minor injuries and declined transport to the hospital. Nov. 27, 200 block of South Harbor Lane, noise. An officer responded to reports of noise at a vacation rental. The officer could hear loud music from the property and audio from the scene was captured by his body camera. The officer issued a citation to the tenant. Nov. 27, Manatee Public Beach, 4000 Gulf Drive, Baker Act. An officer responded to a caller who had attempted suicide and found her outside waiting for help. The officer stayed until emergency medical services transported her to Blake Medical Center in Bradenton. HBPD polices Holmes Beach. Streetlife is based on incident reports and narratives from the BBPD, HBPD and MCSO.

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Crash leaves Anna Maria woman critically injured By Ryan Paice Islander Reporter

Holmes Beach police are investigating a Nov. 29 traffic collision that left Anna Maria resident Jana Samuels, 79, in critical condition in the hospital. The incident occurred when Ellenton resident Michael Fitzgerald, driving a vehicle owned by Trulieve, a medical marijuana dispensary, crossed Palm Drive’s centerline and struck Samuels’ golf cart head-on. Samuels, who was allegedly on her way to the Key

Royale Club for a golf match, was ejected from her vehicle on impact, according to the HBPD report. Emergency medical services responded and transported Samuels to Blake Medical Center in Bradenton, where she remained in critical condition as of Dec. 3. Two witnesses spoke to the HBPD. Police cited Fitzgerald for careless driving and, since he was reportedly “impaired by suspected drug influence,” began an investigation to determine if he was driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Fitzgerald was not arrested.

Bradenton man arrested for narcotics in Holmes Beach Holmes Beach police arrested Bradenton resident Seth Johnson, 18, Nov. 26 on a third-degree felony for possession of narcotics. An officer saw a motorist drive through a flashing red light and conducted a traffic stop in the 600 block of Manatee Avenue, when the officer reported smelling marijuana coming from the vehicle. The driver admitted to possessing a bag of marijuana, which officers confiscated. The police issued the driver citations for possession of less than 20 grams of marijuana and paraphernalia and a traffic violation. A passenger gave the officers a bag containing

MDMA — otherwise known as “molly” — from his pocket, according to the HBPD report. The substance tested positive for bath salts, a synthetic substance similar to amphetamines. The officers arrested Johnson and transported him to the Manatee County jail, where he was released the same day after posting $1,500 bond. The felony charge carries a $500 fine, up to five years in prison and five years of probation. An arraignment will be at 9 a.m. Friday, Dec. 17, at the Manatee County Judicial Center in Bradenton. — Ryan Paice

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Page 22 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Dec. 8, 2021 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Above-average 2021 Atlantic hurricane season ends

The 2021 Atlantic hurricane season concluded Nov. 30, producing 21 named storms with winds of The 2021 Atlantic hur39 mph or greater. ricane season conOnly one storm — Tropical Storm Elsa — directly cluded Nov. 30 and impacted Anna Maria Island in 2021. The July storm produced 21 named prompted state of emergency declarations and prostorms. The 2022 foreduced rain, winds and some flooding to the island. cast will be released The season produced seven hurricanes in the next May. The Atlantic Atlantic hurricane region, including four major hurhurricane season offiricanes with winds of 111 mph or greater. cial runs June 1-Nov. The National Oceanic Atmospheric Administra30. Islander Images: tion’s Climate Prediction Center accurately predicted NOAA the above-average season, which was the third most active on record in terms of named storms. The season was the sixth consecutive above-normal Atlantic hurricane season and, for the first time on record, two consecutive hurricane seasons exhausted the list of 21 storm names. In recent years, scientists attributed heightened hurricane activity to the warm phase of the Atlantic A Geocolor multidecadal oscillation that began in 1995 and favors image Aug. 29 more, stronger and longer-lasting storms. shows Hurricane Additionally, the Intergovernmental Panel on CliIda, Tropical mate Change’s Sixth Assessment Report, released in Storm Julian and August, projected with high confidence that the global Tropical Depresproportion of tropical cyclones that reach intense catsion Ten, which egory 4-5 levels are expected to increase with climate intensified into warming at the global scale. Tropical Storm The 2021 season’s storm activity started early and Kate, Aug. 30. quickly ramped up, as it was the seventh consecutive year with a named storm forming before the June 1 official start of the season. Matthew Rosencrans, seasonal hurricane forecaster at NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center, said, above-average West African monsoon rainfall were the Looking ahead “Climate factors, which include La Nina, above-nor- primary contributors for this above-average hurricane NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center will issue its mal sea surface temperatures earlier in the season and season.” initial seasonal outlook for the 2022 season in May.

Audubon organizing 122nd Christmas Bird Count Organizing for the 122nd Audubon Society Christmas Bird Count is underway, including the counts on or near Anna Maria Island. The count is one of the longest-running wildlife surveys, with citizens collecting data used to assess the health of bird populations and guide conservation actions. Nationwide, the CBC will be Dec. 14-Jan. 5. The Fort De Soto Christmas Bird Count Circle includes the northern part of Anna Maria Island, as well as the coastal waters extending into Tampa Bay and the Gulf of Mexico. The count, conducted mainly by boating teams, is

— Lisa Neff

set for Jan. 2. The Bradenton Christmas Bird Count Circle, which includes Perico Island and large parts of west Manatee County, will be Dec. 18. Kathy Doddridge is leading the count for the Bradenton circle and told The Islander Dec. 2 that her volunteer team is complete. For more information about the Fort De Soto circle, email William Kaempfer at william.kaempfer@ colorado.edu. For more information about Audubon’s count, go online to audubon.org.

Resources for storm info: Twitter • The National Hurricane center: @NWSNHc and @NHc_Atlantic. • The National Weather Service: @NWS, @ NWSTampaBay. On the web • County emergency management: mymanatee.org. • State emergency man-

agement: floridadisaster.org. • FEMA: fema.gov. • National Hurricane center: nhc.noaa.gov. In print • The Islander, Bradenton Herald and Sarasota Herald-Tribune.

— Lisa Neff

Isola Bella

An American Wigeon observed in the Bradenton circle’s christmas Bird count was a new species counted in 2020. The Audubon Society’s christmas Bird county is Dec. 14-Jan. 5, with the Bradenton count taking place Dec. 18. Islander File Photo: Kathy Doddridge

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Recycling reading materials A little free library stands outside the Annie Silver community center, 103 23rd St. N., Bradenton Beach, for passersby to take a paperback on the way to the beach or leave a book for others. Other little free library boxes exist on Anna Maria Island, including another one at the Annie Silver center for children’s books. The libraries provide access to all, help promote literacy and recycle reading materials. The first such library on the island stands outside a home at 708 N. Bay Blvd., Anna Maria, and offers classics, mysteries, spy novels and more. For more information about the world’s largest book-sharing movement, go online to littlefreelibrary.org. Islander courtesy Photo

By Lisa Neff

Collecting treasure

My three treasure chests line a wall in my living room. They’re wooden, stand about 6 feet tall and have five shelves each. And they’re filled with all types of jewels. The value of my treasure is immeasurable, priceless, even though the insurance payout on any loss might amount to less than $100. My treasure consists of about 500 Neff books — paperback and hardcover, fiction and nonfiction, classic literature and easy beach reads. One bit of treasure cost 75 cents in 1972. The old Scholastic Inc. version of Robert Louis Stevenson’s “Treasure Island” sits on a top shelf, with other collectibles from childhood. I need only to see the paperback’s spine to remember Jim Hawkin’s tale and to think, “Treasure, books are treasure.” I wouldn’t exchange my old, tattered copy of Jack Kerouac’s “On the Road” for a pile of cold cash. I’d rather have my new copy of Philip Kennedy’s “The Bird: The Great Age of Avian Illustration” than a strand of pearls. This time of year, my treasure grows. For at least a decade, my wife has given me a “Christmas book.” Usually I identify my “Christmas book” while reading the books section in the Sunday edition of The New York Times, tear out the page and give Connie “the clue.” But this year, I struggled to choose a title. “The Bird” isn’t on my Christmas list because that gem of a hardcover got added to the treasure shelves earlier in the year, but finalists included: • “Beatrix Potter’s Gardening Life: The Plants and Places that Inspired the Classic Children’s Tales,” by Marta McDowell and full of watercolors and sketches, letters and notes by a blossoming writer and gardener. • “Southeast Foraging: 120 Wild and Flavorful

The cover for “The Bird: The Great Age of Illustration” from Illustration chronicle founder Philip Kennedy.

and about the champions of carbon sequestration, soil stabilization and watershed management. • “Botanical Art Techniques” by the American Society of Botanical Artists and about illustrating flowers and other plants. But ultimately, I shouted, “This is the book!” to Connie when I heard an NPR story about “The Most Dangerous Book: The Battle for James Joyce’s Ulysses.” Author Kevin Birmingham’s prize-winning story is about the creation and publication of a masterpiece, a revolutionary novel, about a day in the life of Leopold Bloom and so very much more. Yes, there will be treasure under my Christmas tree.

The book explores 18th- and 19th-century ornithological illustrations, including work by John James Audubon, elizabeth Gould and elizabeth Lear. each chapter focuses on a category of birds — from shorebirds to birds of prey — as the text explores how illustrators informed their public of the natural world.

Edibles from Angelica to Wild Plums” by Chris Bennett and providing a seasonal guide to identifying safe plants for harvest. • “The Nature of Oaks: The Rich Ecology of our Most Essential Native Trees” by Douglas W. Tallamy

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Page 24 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Dec. 8, 2021 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Horseshoe sees 2 champs, adults kick off soccer playoffs By Kevin P. cassidy Islander Reporter

There were few surprises on the pitch. The action Nov. 18 in the adult soccer league quarterfinals at the Center of Anna Maria Island mostly went according to seedings, with the exception of the first match of the evening between No. 3 Slim’s Place and the sixth-seed, the Gitt Team. Raul Loera scored a pair of goals cassidy and Damir Glavan added a goal and an assist to lead the Gitt Team to a 4-2 upset victory. Daniel Hampton chipped in with a goal, Keith Mahoney had an assist and Edd Monzon made three saves in the Gitt victory. The second match of the night saw No. 1 Sato Real Estate cruise to a 9-1 victory over No. 8 Sandbar Restaurant behind three goals from Thomas Mangotic and two goals each from Shawn Marham and Gregg Ross. Amy Ivin chipped in with a goal and two assists and Ben Sato made three saves in the victory. No. 2 seed Servis First Bank doubled up on Beach Bums by a 6-3 score behind four goals from Eric Pullen and a goal and an assist from Mauricio Vargas. Christopher Klotz added a goal and Osvaldo Cabello had an assist and three saves in goal. No. 5 seed Emily Moss Designs earned a 3-1 victory over No. 4 Blalock Walters thanks to a goal and an assist from Kevin Roman and Gregg Moss. Lindsey Styka added a goal and Ryan Moss helped secure the victory with seven saves in goal. Matthew Staggs scored the lone goal for Blalock Walters, which received eight saves from Robb Marshall in the loss. The semifinal action will start at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 9, with Servis First Bank taking on the Gitt Team, followed at 7:30 p.m. by Sato Real Estate versus Emily Moss Designs. The winners will meet in the championship match at 7 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 16, at the center, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria. Horseshoe action at the Anna Maria pits was short

Horseshoe pitchers Herb Schutt, left, and Adin Shank earned a trip to the winner’s circle Dec. 4 in Schutt’s first appearance at the Anna Maria city Hall pits. Islander Photo: courtesy of AMI Pitchers

and sweet, with two outright champions. Tom Skoloda and Norm Good were too “good” for the competition, posting the lone 3-0 record in pool play during the Dec. 1 games. The Dec. 4 games saw Herb Schutt in his debut match team up with Adin Shank to forge the only 3-0 record in pool play for the day’s bragging rights. Play gets underway at 9 a.m. Wednesdays and Saturdays at the Anna Maria City Hall pits. Warmups begin at 8:45 a.m., followed by random team selection. There is no charge to play and everyone is welcome. Meanwhile, beautiful weather produced a full week of golf at the Key Royale Club in Holmes Beach, starting with the men competing Nov. 29 in their weekly modified-Stableford System match. Jim Goff grabbed clubhouse bragging rights with a plus-6, 2 points ahead of second-place finisher Brian Comer. Gary Razze was alone in third place with a score of plus-3. The women took over the links Nov. 30 for a ninehole individual-low-net match in two flights. Helen PolSanta claus arrives on his sleigh Dec. 4 to the community center for his appearance at Lester Family Fun Day. Islander Photos: Ryan Paice

Fun Day brings Santa and Christmas to the community center

Madilynn Slack, 4, rides as Payton Gehron leads the pony for Addi’s Pony Parties.

chickens, goats and tortoises join the fun Dec. 4 at Lester Family Fun Day.

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lock carded a 2-over-par 34 to earn a two-shot victory in Flight A, two strokes ahead of second-place finishers Carol Pattersona and Brenda Solleveld. Solleved’s round was punctuated by a birdie on the sixth hole. Jackie Gorski’s 3-under-par 29 was the low-net round of the day and gave her first place in Flight B. Peggi Clauhs and Janet Razze both fired even-par 32s to finish in a tie for second place. The club members were back on the course Dec. 2 for a nine-hole shamble, with two scores counted from each foursome. The team of Brian Comer, Hoyt Miller, Bob O’Brien and Earl Ritchie matched the 1-under-par 63 carded by Joe Cassese, John Cassese, Larry Pippel and John Purcell for a tie for first place. Back at the community center, sign up and team assignments for youths ages 5-17 for the winter flag football league was winding down for a season of games that start Jan. 11. Player evaluations were set for 5:30 p.m. Dec. 7 — after press time for The Islander — for the 5-7 and 8-10 age divisions, and 7:30 p.m. for the 11-13 and 14-17 divisions. For information, contact Connor Haughey at 941778-1908, ext. 217.

Kids challenge the rock wall Dec. 4 at Lester Family Fun Day.

Dec. 8, 2021 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 25 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

In search of a bite? Grab the gear and head to the beach By Capt. Danny Stasny Islander Reporter

With mild temperatures and calm waters, plenty of fishers are out on the water in search of a bite and the beaches of Anna Maria are a great place to start. Walking the shoreline of the Gulf of Mexico in the morning and casting small jigs tipped with shrimp is a good way to find some action. Pompano, black drum and sheepshead are Stasny beginning to show along the sandy bottom as they forage for small crustaceans. You may encounter some ladyfish and jack crevalle, which put up quite a fight when hooked on light spinning gear. As you walk the beach, cast jigs into the trough between the shoreline and the outer bar. This is a highway for the fish that migrate up and down the shorelines. If walking isn’t your forte, you can plant your feet in the sand and make some casts. You won’t cover as much area but you will get some looks from some fish as they pass your location. Bottom fishing also is effective for fishers on the beach. Instead of using a jig, tie on a fish finder rig consisting of an egg sinker, a swivel, some leader and a hook. This method — when using shrimp— can be effective for catching whiting. These fish average 10-15 inches and are considered excellent to eat by many surf casters. When fishing either method — jigging or bottom fishing —it’s good to have an ample amount of shrimp. Live shrimp are always your best bet, but frozen will work if that’s all you can muster up. And, if you’re lucky enough to have both live and frozen, you make use of the frozen shrimp by breaking it into little pieces and chumming the water. If the tide is not too strong, the pieces will get enough scent in the water to attract fish. The best part about beach fishing is it’s quite simple and a casual walk on the beach carrying your rods, jigs, terminal tackle and a few dozen shrimp in a small bucket is easy to do. Remember, whether you’re a resident or nonresident, you are required to carry a fishing license. And, Kyle Schauffler of Colorado shows off a dinner-size tripletail he caught while on a charter fishing trip with his dad, Dre, of Anna Maria, and Capt. Warren Girle.

Dre Schauffler of Anna Maria fished Nov. 26 with son Kyle of Colorado. The pair landed and released two nice tripletail while fishing nearshore using shrimp for bait. They were guided to the fish by Capt. Warren Girle.

if you plan on keeping some fish, bring a measuring stick to make sure your catch is of legal size. For folks lucky enough to take a guided fishing trip, Capt. David White is targeting gag grouper in Tampa Bay. Using live bait around artificial reefs and wrecks is leading White’s clients to some keeper-size gags. Trolling with lipped plugs in the same areas is resulting in hookups. While working the flats, White is using live shiners as bait, which is working well on snook and redfish. These inshore favorites are being caught during afternoon fishing excursions when the water on the flats have has warmed. Best results are occurring before the cold fronts arrive. On the cooler days during the fronts, White is using live shrimp as bait to target pompano. Tipping jigs with pieces of fresh-cut live shrimp is working best, although sometimes it takes a whole shrimp on the bottom to intrigue a pompano. While targeting the pompano, White also is seeing a few sheepshead and black drum. Jim Malfese at the Rod & Reel Pier says mangrove snapper and black drum are being caught by anglers using live shrimp as bait — combining the shrimp with a bottom rig — and casting under the pier, is attracting

the most attention from the drum and snapper. While fishing this method, pier fishers also are hooking into redfish and under-slot snook. There are still schools of shiners around the pier, which brings the potential for migratory species to be present. Spanish mackerel, jack crevalle and ladyfish can pop up at any time, so it’s always best to be prepared. Try carrying some silver spoons or small jigs to target the species. If you don’t have lures, they do carry them at the pier — for a price. Capt. Jason Stock is pursuing large amberjack while working offshore in the Gulf of Mexico. With some of the species pushing 100 pounds, anglers with determination and stamina are required to successfully reel these large predatory fish to the boat. Kingfish are in the mix while targeting the amberjack. These fish are quite powerful and can peel 100 yards of line off the spool before the unsuspecting angler knows what happened. Stock says bottom fishing offshore also is producing action, especially for gag grouper. Keeper-sizes are being caught frequently when using live pinfish. Lastly, tripletail are being spotted occasionally, which adds a nice variety to the bite and the prospect of a tasty dinner. Send high-resolution photos and fishing reports to fish@islander.org.

Fishing tip! If you hook a bird, remember: Reel, remove, release! Anna Maria Island Tides

Date

Dec 8 Dec 9 Dec 10 Dec 11 Dec 12 Dec 13 Dec 14 Dec 15

12:59a 2:01a 3:22a 5:11a 7:01a 8:33a 9:48a 10:53a

HIGH

2.5 2.2 1.8 1.6 1.4 1.3 1.3 1.3

— 6:32p 6:49p 7:12p 7:38p 8:03p 8:28p 8:53p

HIGH

— 9:28a 1.4 10:22a 1.5 11:15a 1.6 12:04p 1.7 1:05a 1.9 2:12a 2.0 3:04a 2.1 3:49a

LOW

-0.5 — -0.3 9:23p 0.0 11:32p 0.2 — 0.7 12:49p 0.4 1:29p 0.1 2:05p -0.2 2:35p

LOW

— 1.3 1.1 — 0.5 0.7 0.8 1.0

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isl

Site work takes place Dec. 2 at a lot near the corner of 75th Street West and Manatee Avenue West in Bradenton. Islander Photo: Lisa Neff

biz Staff reports

Networking, noshing, lobbying and more

Mingling in a merry month ’Tis the season for an ugly holiday sweater. And lunch at the Ugly Grouper? The Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce’s next networking luncheon will be 11:30 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 9, at the restaurant, 5704 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. The menu options include grouper tacos, cheeseburger, fish and chips or an “Ugly salad.” Attendees are invited to bring a raffle prize to ramp up the fun. The cost is $18 for members, $30 for nonmembers. The next networking event will be a business card exchange 5-7 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 15, at Mainsail Beach Inn, 101 66th St., Holmes Beach. For more information, call the chamber at 941778-1541. Syrup and session The Manatee Chamber of Commerce will add some sweetness to the conversation ahead of the 2022 legislative session. The chamber’s traditional Pancake and Politics breakfast will be 7:30-9:30 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 9, at IMG Academy Golf Club, 4350 El Conquistador Parkway, Bradenton. The chamber has invited the local legislative delegation to provide a preview of the session that begins in January, including state Sens. Jim Boyd and Joe Gruters and state Reps. Michele Rayner, William Robinson, Fiona McFarland, Tommy Gregory and James Buchanan. For more information, call the chamber at 941Find The Islander dating to November 1992 online at the UofF Digital Newspaper collection at ufdc.ufl. edu.

748-3411. Sighted on-site Site preparation work continued at the former Albertsons parking lot near the intersection of Manatee Avenue West and 75th Street West in Bradenton. But preparation for what? After the grocery store closed, plans were announced that a new grocery, a Lucky’s Market, would open at the location, along with a Wawa store and service station. But Lucky’s Market is not to be. However, the Bradenton Development Services and Zoning Department informed The Islander Nov. 29 that the outparcel that fronts the site on Manatee Avenue, currently part of the parking lot, was approved for the development of a Wawa gas and convenience store in 2019. The approval has been extended through Oct. 9, 2022. The department also said a pre-application review was held Aug. 3 to examine a proposed self-storage facility with RV parking at the old Albertsons site. But the city has received no further applications for that proposed use. Also, The Islander asked the Kroger Co., which owns property at the former Albertsons site, to respond to reports of their plans to open a store. “We don’t comment on rumor or speculation,” said Andrea Colby, Kroger’s ecommerce corporate affairs and communications manager. Booking ahead “Winter” is on the monthly calendar but potential travelers already are looking ahead to summer 2022. HomeToGo, which identifies as the world’s largest rental marketplace, surveyed potential travelers and studied online behavior to see how people are planning getaways in 2022. HomeToGo reported an uplift in people interested in stays in quieter destinations next summer and Anna Maria Island ranked near the top of online searches, DAILY/WEEKLY/MONTHLY SCHEDULED SERVICE

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along with Maui in Hawaii, South Padre in Texas, Old Orchard in Maine, Nantucket in Massachusetts and Palm Springs in California. HB restaurant closes ’til further notice Tortilla Bay is closed until further notice. A sign posted to the door of the restaurant, 5318 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, said the closure is due to a family emergency and apologized for any inconvenience. — Lisa Neff

Point of poinsettia sales Orban’s Nursery, 9601 Ninth Ave. NW, Bradenton, is the point of sale for poinsettias Nov. 27, during the annual post-Thanksgiving open house. Islander Photo Lisa Neff

s #LEANING -AINTENANCE s 0REMIUM ,INENS s (OME 3ITTING 4RUSTED LICENSED BONDED INSURED 3ERVICING THE ISLANDS FOR YEARS &!-),9 /7.%$ !.$ /0%2!4%$

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Same location for 47 years!

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Offer valid November 1 - December 31, 2021 at participating NAPA AutoCare Centers. Claim ONLINE ONLY at NAPARebates.com by January 15, 2022.This offer is only valid to US residents. Limit of 1 claim per receipt, with a maximum of $40 payout. Limit two (2) rewards per customer account, household, family or address. *Cards are issued by Bank of America, N.A. pursuant to a license from Visa Inc.These cards are not credit cards and expire six (6) months from issue and have no value after that date. See your cardholder agreement and associated materials for details.Void where prohibited.

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don’t forget! You can read it all online at islander.org

Dec. 8, 2021 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 27 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

BizCal

compiled bY lisa neff

AMI Chamber This week

Thursday, Dec. 9 11:30 a.m. — Member luncheon, Ugly Grouper, 5704 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Friday, Dec. 10 4-8 p.m. — Anna Maria Holiday Walk of Treasures, Gulf Drive, Pine Avenue and Bay Boulevard, Anna Maria. Save the date Dec. 15, business card exchange and food drive, Mainsail Beach Inn, Holmes Beach. The date was changed. Fees may apply for events. RSVP for the networking events by contacting the chamber at 941-778-1541 or info@amichamber.org.

LBK Chamber This week Thursday, Dec. 9 5 p.m. — Longboat Key Chamber of Commerce Holiday Business After Hours, Harry’s Continental Kitchen, 525 St. Judes Drive, Longboat Key. Save the date Dec. 16, LBK Chamber Networking@Noon luncheon, Zota Beach Resort, Longboat Key. Fees may apply for events. For more LBK Chamber information, visit longboatkeychamber. com or call 941-383-2466.

Other Events This week Thursday, Dec. 9 7:30 a.m. — Manatee Chamber of Commerce Pancakes and Politics breakfast meeting, IMG Academy Golf Club, 4350 El Conquistador Parkway, Bradenton. Fee applies. Information: 941-7483411.

ANNA MARIA ISLAND �� Mangrove Avenue � Beds �/� Baths �� Sq� Ft� Hannah Hillyard & George Myers �� A��

1st 2021-22 tourist tax dollars top 2020-21 By Lisa Neff Islander Editor

Ring, ring, ring. The first tourist tax collections reported for the 2021-22 fiscal year registered a 51% increase over the prior year. The Manatee County Tax Collector’s office released October collection numbers for the county tourist tax, also known as the resort or bed tax — the 5% tax collected on overnight rentals of six months or less. The first month of the 2021-22 fiscal year showed $1,437,374 collected. In 2020-21, the same month’s collections totaled $954,681.99. Holmes Beach topped collections on Anna Maria Island, generating $375,187, about 26.10%. Anna Maria accounted for about 13.43% of the collections, bringing in $193,062, and Bradenton Beach generated $87,342 or 6.08%. Some other numbers for October: • Unincorporated Manatee County generated $532,997 or 37.08%. • Bradenton generated $128,876 or 8.97%; • Longboat Key generated $116,520 or 8.11%; • Palmetto generated $3,428 or 0.24%; The collection fee or commission on the tax is 3%, so the net collection for the Manatee County Tourist Development Council in October was $1,394,253. According to state law, resort tax revenues must

be used to boost and develop tourism, including funding for the Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau and the Bradenton Area Convention Center and tourism-related entities such as Realize Bradenton and the Pittsburgh Pirates, as well as supporting projects, such as island beach renourishment and construction of the new Anna Maria City Pier. The TDC recommends how to spend the money to the county commission. The revenue will be discussed at the next TDC meeting, which will be at 9 a.m. Monday, Dec. 13, at the Center of Anna Maria Island, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria. The November numbers will be released in early January.

Monthly Garbage Bin Cleaning Specializing in Vacation Rentals

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AMI Tourism: Endless Season

October tourist tax revenues October 2017: $720,607 October 2018: $694,834 October 2019: $807,356 October 2020: $954,682 October 2021: $1,437,374 Source: Manatee County Tax Collector

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Page 28 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Dec. 8, 2021 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

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

HELP WANTED Continued

NeW, TWIN MATTReSS, $100, cruiser bike, helmet, seven gears, $50, Paperbacks, 50 cents, hardcovers, $1, 941-920-2494.

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)

SMUGGLeRS cOVe/GULF Stream Beach Resort in need of front desk person 8 a.m.4 p.m. Saturdays and 9 a.m.- 3 p.m. every other Sunday. Please, call 941-778-6667.

FOR SALe IRIDIUM 9555 handset satellite phone. complete with strap-on bag, chargers, ear plugs, etc. Price firm at $200, cash only. 804-241-2537.

ANNOUNCEMENTS NOTIce OF PUBLIc SALe: Morland Marine gives Notice of Foreclosure of Lien and intent to sell this vessel on Dec. 17, 2021, commencing 10 a.m. at 2123 University Parkway, Sarasota, FL 34243, pursuant to Subsection 328.17, Florida Statutes. Morland Marine reserves the right to accept or reject any/or all bids.

cHANDeLIeR, BROWN MeTAL, bulbs included, $20. 941-920-2494. ANTIQUe BABY cARRIAGe: Wood and wicker. Proceeds benefit Moonracer Animal Rescue. email for photos: moonraceranimalrescue@gmail.com. ANTIQUe PARTNeR DeSK: All wood, $500. Inquire at The Islander office, 315 58th St. Suite J, Holmes Beach. 941-778-7978.

WANTeD: WORKOUT DVDs, XBox, Wii for kids and teens in Haiti. Deliver to The Islander, 315 58th St. Suite J, Holmes Beach.

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

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Kitchen and Bath Remodeling Specialist Replacement Doors and Windows

Andrew Chennault

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

WANTeD: YOUR OLD cellphone for recycling. Deliver to The Islander, 315 58th St. Suite J, Holmes Beach. FRee GUN LOcK courtesy of Project childsafe, Florida Fish and Wildlife conservation commission and Holmes Beach Police Department. Pick up at The Islander office, 315 58th St. Suite J, Holmes Beach. Don’t be sorry, be safe. PETS HeLP ReScUeD PeTS! Volunteer, foster, computer help needed! Moonracer Animal Rescue. email: moonraceranimalrescue@ gmail.com. BOATS & BOATING

References available • 941-720-7519

AdoptA-Pet

13-FOOT DINGHY sailboat, needs mast, $50. 813-463-6770. FOR SALe: 20-hp Tohatsu outboard motor. electric start, short shank, low hours, excellent condition. can be seen running. $1,800 (cash only). Located in cortez. 616-4850410.

Benson wants a forever home!

FOR SALe: BRAND new complete set of white/navy blue pontoon vinyl seats. Located in cortez. $200. Phone, 804-241-2537. SMS only.

Benson is a 1-year-old, 21-pound male looking for a fun family. To meet this cutie, call Lisa Williams at 941-345-2441 or visit The Islander ofﬁce in Holmes Beach. For more about pet adoption, visit moonraceranimalrescue.com.

eUPHeMIA HAYe ReSTAURANT: Longboat Key. Join our fun, creative and award-winning kitchen team. We have several positions available depending on experience. We look forward to training the right people! Full-time, evening and weekend shifts. To apply, call 941-383-3633, or email officeadmin@euphemiahaye.com. We are an equal Opportunity employer. eUPHeMIA HAYe ReSTAURANT: Longboat Key. Long-established, fine dining restaurant is hiring an assistant for their award-winning Dessert Room. This position blends front-ofhouse and back-of-house duties and would be an ideal job for those wanting to gain a better understanding of a fine dining establishment as a whole. To apply, call 941-3833633 or email officeadmin@euphemiahaye. com. eXPeRIeNceD cOMMeRcIAL PAINTeRS needed. Valid driver license preferred. competitive rates and paid vacation time. contact JcM Painting Florida Inc. weekdays 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. 941-746-4452. RePORTeR WANTeD: Full- to part-time. Print media, newspaper experience required. Apply via email with letter of interest to news@islander.org. HEALTH CARE GOOD GRIeF: eXPeRIeNceD Licensed clinical Social Worker (LcSW) providing help for individuals and families working through end-of-life issues. call or email Dawn, 207615- 5876. goodgrief.dawn@gmail.com. SERVICES NeeD A RIDe to airports? Tampa $65, St. Pete, $55, Sarasota, $30. Gary, 863-4095875. gvoness80@gmail.com. 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.

HELP WANTED

cLeANING: VAcATION, cONSTRUcTION, residential, commercial and windows. Licensed and insured. 941-744-7983.

PART TIMe: MecHANIcAL/electrical engineer. Any experience with robotics integration. Focus on manufacturing automation. 218-205-0911.

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