The Islander Newspaper E-Edition Wednesday, Jan. 03, 2024 by The Anna Maria Islander Newspaper

Welcome to 2024!

VOLUME 32, NO. 11

The Best news on anna Maria Island since 1992 astheworldterns 6 aM mangrove investigation continues. 2

Q&A 010324 3 Cities look forward … 2024. 4-5

Opinions 6

10-20 YEARS AGO

looking back. 7

election 2024. 8 Investigations might hinder marine poachers. 8

Meetings 9 save the date. 10-11

Happenings What’s up on aMI? 10-11 aMe calendar. 12

Gathering. 14 Obituaries 14 Remembrances 2023. 15

NYT puzzle. 18 Streetlife 22

get in the game. 23 sports news. 24 slim mullet season. 25 good catch. 25 Center nets positive month. 26 looking to session. 27

Christmas bird count. 27

cLASSIFIEDS. 28-29

Isl Biz:

expansions, makeovers and more. 30

Find The Islander archive dating to 1992 at ufdc.ufl.edu.

JAN. 3, 2024 free

islander.org

AMI feels repercussion from new County resets state ﬁnancial disclosure law ferry launch: Jan. 12 By Ryan Paice and Robert anderson Islander Reporters

A new financial disclosure law made an immediate splash in the political pool on Anna Maria Island. Three of five Anna Maria commission applicants withdrew from consideration and Bradenton Beach City Commissioner Jake Spooner resigned Dec. 28 in response to new, more stringent requirements adopted in Senate Bill 774, which went into effect Jan. 1. The measure dealing with “ethics requirements for public officials” was sponsored by Sen. Jason Brodeur, R-Lake Mary, and signed into law in May 2023 by Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis. The law requires government officials, including municipal mayors and commissioners, to file an annual Form 6 financial disclosure form in place of Form 1, a simplified disclosure form. Form 1 requires officials to disclose income sources, business interests, major debts and real estate holdings. It does not require officials to provide specific amounts for income, debts and holdings. Form 6 has lower thresholds for what information has to be disclosed and has long applied to the governor, lieutenant governor, state cabinet members, legislators, state attorneys, public defenders and clerks of circuit courts. The form now applies to mayors and city commissioners and requires them to disclose their net worth, income sources and amounts,

bank accounts and year-end balances, stock and investment accounts, as well as land and real estate holdings. Form 6 requires officials disclose financial spooner debts and liabilities in excess of $1,000 and the amount owed to each creditor, except for credit card debt and taxes. While Form 1 asks officials to declare intangible assets worth more than $10,000 individually, Form 6 requires them to disclose all assets worth more than $1,000, as well as a lump Kolojeski sum value of other household goods and personal effects. All elected officials in office as of Dec. 31 are required to file a Form 6 disclosure form by July 1. olesen SB 774 also increased the maximum civil penalty for state ethics violations from $10,000 to $20,000. In Anna Maria, the disclosure law narrowed the playing field for two vacant stephen seats on the city commission. Three of five applicants for the seats

Manatee County will launch its Gulf Islands Ferry servicing Bradenton and Anna Maria Island Jan. 12. The service was scheduled to launch Dec. 8, then delayed to Jan. 5 and is now set for Jan. 12 — provided the weather cooperates, according to a Dec. 29 news release from the Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau. The BACVB is managing the service, with operations contracted to Clearwaterbased Gulf Coast Water Taxi. Plans call for two 50-foot open-deck catamarans, each able to carry 49 passengers, to loop from the Riverwalk in downtown Bradenton to docks on AMI. The service is scheduled to run 9 a.m.-9 p.m. Friday-Sunday. Two pilings needed for the ferry service to dock at the Anna Maria City Pier — the first stop for the ferry route — were not installed as of Dec. 28. Despite the pier deficiency, the Dec. 29 news release said the launch service would be between downtown Bradenton and the Anna Maria City Pier. The release said a stop at the Historic Bridge Street Pier in Bradenton Beach would be “added to the route system as soon as some minor enhancements are completed.” Ticketing is available at gulfcoastwatertaxi.com. TURn To DisclOsUre laW, Page 3 People can learn more about the ferry service at bradentongulfisland.com/gulfislands-ferry. ` There was no general phone number for the service provided but the news release offered BACVB executive director Elliott Falcione as a contact at elliott.falcione@ 1st sea turtle hatchlings emerge: The bacvb.com or 941-209-0960. — Ryan Paice and lisa neff first loggerhead hatchlings of the nesting season on Anna Maria Island emerged overMuch loved, retired AME prinnight June 29-30. HB preparing challenge against park- cipal dies at 82. See obituary ing garage law: The city of Holmes Beach for James Kronus, p. 14 was organizing a new fight against a new Florida law authorizing Manatee County to trump municipal home rule and build a parking garage at the beach. Privateers award $7,500 in scholarships: During a Minor League Baseball game between the Bradenton Marauders and the Clearwater Threshers, the Anna Maria Island Privateers presented its 2023-24 college scholarship awards. Go, Suzi, go: Cheers of hundreds of people rang out as members of the Sea Turtle

Flashback 2023: The year in review Part 2

Compiled by lisa neff Islander editor

Islanders shared “hurrahs” in 2023 as they cheered on a tagged loggerhead crawling from the beach to the Gulf, collegebound students with scholarships to bank and campaigns to fundraise and have fun. And islanders in 2023 shared “harrumphs” as they blasted drives from AMI to Tallahassee to change the island way of life and the way the island looks. A look back at the second half of 2023. July County restores water line: Both lanes of the Anna Maria Island Bridge reopened following repairs to a collapsed water main on the underside of the bridge. Bradenton man drowns: A 71-yearold Bradenton man drowned in the Gulf of Mexico in Bradenton Beach.

Flashback ’23

TURn To flashback, Page 8

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Mangrove investigation continues, complainant harassed By Ryan Paice Islander Reporter

The winter holidays will come to a close without a resolution on the removal of mangroves from a canalside Anna Maria home. The Florida Department of Environmental Protection and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers were not finished investigating the removal of mangroves from property at 111 Gull Drive as of The Islander’s Dec. 29 press deadline. Mangroves provide environmental benefits, including offering a unique ecosystem for marine life, decreasing land erosion and improving nearshore water quality. The 1996 Florida Department of Environmental Protection Mangrove Trimming and Preservation Act establishes regulations to protect coastal vegetation and habitats. The law sets standards for trimming mangroves and most alterations require DEP permitting. The property at 111 Gull Drive is owned by Massachusetts-based Sharp Development LLC, which purchased it last year for $1,890,000 and then demolished the existing home.

The contractor for the new home at the property, Bradenton-based Mason Martin LLC, was found responsible for removing the mangroves, according to Anna Maria Mayor Dan Murphy. The city first received complaints about the removal of mangroves at the property Dec. 4 and, upon inspection, found the work was proposed on the application for an unissued building permit. The city posted a stop work order at the property Dec. 6 for work prior to the permit being issued. On receiving complaints Dec. 13 that work had resumed, city staff revisited the property and found the contractor removing mangroves and the posted stop work order missing. The city reposted the stop work order and, while mangrove trimming/removal regulations are preempted to the state, Mason Martin might face repercussions from the Anna Maria Local Construction Regulation Board for willfully violating the building code by ignoring the posted stop work order. The LCR board can deny, suspend or revoke the authority of a certified contractor to obtain a building permit or limit such authority to obtaining a permit or permits with specific conditions.

a silt fence on the property and turbidity barrier in the water are set up Dec. 28 where mangroves were removed along a canal at 111 gull Drive, anna Maria. Islander Photo: Ryan Paice

DEP public information specialist Brian Humphreys wrote in a Dec. 19 email to The Islander that the contractor was allowed to complete “limited mangrove alteration/removal” under the exemption for the construction of a seawall at the property. Humphreys wrote that the DEP would inspect the site to ensure the contractor’s compliance with the issued exemption but an inspection report was not available as of Dec. 28. “If it is determined that unauthorized mangrove alteration has occurred, DEP may pursue enforcement against all responsible parties,” Humphreys wrote. David Ruderman, from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ Jacksonville office, wrote in a Dec. 26 email to The Islander that the USACE was aware of the issue and coordinating a site visit to “assess the situation.” Complainant harassed In the meantime, Anna Maria resident Ronnie Leto — one of the complainants who reported the work to the city — said he received an “arrogant” text message from Mason Martin co-owner Frank Agnelli. Leto shared the Dec. 21 message, which reads: “Red tag lifted and mangroves are gonna get (exempted) just like the DEP gave me exemption. You should have just called smarter people now all the citizen will pay for the defamation suits. Happy holidays.” The message appeared to be sent from 941-7379111, the phone number on the Agnelli Pools & Construction website, agnellipools.com, as a contact for Frank Agnelli. Leto told The Islander Dec. 28 that he was not trying to stir up bad blood, only trying to protect the canal his home overlooks. He called the text message “arrogant.” Murphy wrote in a Dec. 27 email to The Islander that “the red tag is still posted. We have not issued a permit for that work.” Please, see mangrOVe, neXT Page

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thing over $1,000). Such public information would most interest a thief.” Stephen also criticized the new law in a Dec. 29 email to the mayor. “Unfortunately, the new laws will impede my desire to run. In my opinion, PUBLIC release of my personal financial information is ripe for abuse,” Stephen wrote. “If I only was disclosing to the powers that be, it might be a different story.” Without those three and Sharon Wisniewski, who previously withdrew, the applicants for the two seats are Gary McMullen and Kathleen Morgan-Johnson. The deadline to apply, based on the city’s schedule to fill the commission seats, was Dec. 15, 2023. Meanwhile, Spooner announced Dec. 28 his resignation from his seats on the commission and community redevelopment agency citing changes to state financial disclosure rules as the primary reason for his departure. Spooner, who has served the city since 2105, expressed gratitude for his tenure. “My time on the commission has been deeply rewarding and educational. I have cherished the opportunity to contribute to our city’s growth and to collaborate on initiatives that have improved our residents’ quality of life,” he said in a Dec. 28 letter addressed to commissioners and city staff. According to the Bradenton Beach charter, the remaining commissioners are charged with nominating candidates and voting for the nominee best suited to fill the remainder of Spooner’s term. If the commission is unable to fill the vacancy after two meetings, a successor is chosen by lot by the city clerk from proposed nominees. Holmes Beach deputy clerk Michelle Lowe told The Islander Dec. 29 that elected officials have been informed of the financial disclosure law. She added that, as of Dec. 29, no city officials had resigned or expressed concern about complying with the measure. Read the form To review Form 6, go online to islander.org.

DisclOsUre laW ConTInUeD FRoM Page 1

— John Kolojeski, Pat Olesen and Susan Stephen — recently submitted emails notifying the city they are withdrawing from consideration due to SB 774. Olesen, who informed the city of her intent to withdraw in a Dec. 22 email to Mayor Dan Murphy, told The Islander Dec. 29 that the disclosure changes were the sole reason for her decision. “I’m disappointed it didn’t work out,” Olesen said. “I don’t mind being vetted but the fact of a lot of personal information being out there for the world to see, to me, was much too intrusive and inappropriate.” “It’s a cyber security issue,” she added. Kolojeski emailed Murphy Dec. 28 of his decision to withdraw. He wrote in the email, “In my opinion the residents of Anna Maria did not need to know the value of an elected official’s Oriental rug or art collection (anymangrOVe ConTInUeD FRoM Page 2

“The man can build a house as far as I’m concerned, but the damage that has already been done is shocking,” Leto said. “And if we don’t stop it here … if they build this seawall, that’s their way to do the same thing to every piece of property that has mangroves on this island.” Agnelli did not respond to a Dec. 28 call for comment from The Islander.

Flashback ’23 Plans from august 2023 show a three-story parking garage at Manatee Public Beach in Holmes Beach. Islander File graphic

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Q&A 010324

By lisa neff

The Islander poll

Last week’s question Do you make a new year’s resolution? 12%. Always. 56%. Never. 15%. If I remember. 17%. I do, but usually forget it. This week’s question In 2024, I wouldn’t be surprised if … A. The county abandoned the HB parking garage project. B. The state further eroded municipal home rule. C. The ferry service got delayed until spring. D. The island’s residential population declined. E. All of the above. F. None of the above. To answer the poll, go online to islander.org.

Flashback Q&A

Each week, The Islander poses a poll question. A sampling of what we asked in the second half of 2023 and the top votes among readers: In July: About Fourth of July fireworks ... You said: 44%. Sometimes catch a show. In August: Do you work on Labor Day? You said: 69%. Not at all. In September: Ready for some football? You said: 32%. Already watching. In October: Best social media app for seeing AMI imagery? You said: 58%. Facebook. In November: On vacation, I ... You said: 62%, Do not work. In December: AMI’s biggest story of 2023 is … You said: 69%. County push for beach parking garage.

Visit islander.org for the best news on AMI.

Page 4 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Jan. 3, 2024 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

AM holds high hopes for Pine Avenue improvements in 2024 By Ryan Paice Islander Reporter

Delays cannot stop Anna Maria city commissioners from getting excited about reimagining Pine Avenue in the new year. Commissioners Mark Short, Jonathan Crane and Charlie Salem told The Islander the week beginning Dec. 18 about their hopes and concerns for 2024. Short, who chairs the commission, and Crane said they were most excited for plans to move forward with a prototype to improve Pine Avenue. The city budgeted $3,349,634.46 in fiscal 2023-24 to improve Pine, Magnolia and Spring avenues by

Pine avenue reaches from the gulf of Mexico to Tampa Bay. Islander File Photo: Jack elka

home.”

Looking forward … 2024

Concerns in 2024 Salem and Short both said their primary concern was potential state interference due to the state study into the potential consolidation of the island’s municipalities. The study was proposed by Rep. Will Robinson Jr., R-Bradenton, and unanimously approved by the Manatee County Legislative Delegation. “I’m hoping as they peel away the onion that they get a little more focused and can see what we see are the opportunities here on this island,” Short said. Crane said he was concerned about a declining residential population and the replacement of homes with vacation rentals. “I’d love to see a little bit more of a permanent population. It’s hard to maintain a sense of community when you don’t have any community members,” he said. Salem, who was appointed in January 2023, has proposed incentives for permanent residents but the city has yet to take any action. “We need to keep pressing different ways to help residents who live here to remain here and encourage new residents to relocate here,” Salem said.

installing pervious paver sidewalks, as well as add and enhance crosswalks and street lighting. The improvements will begin from Gulf Drive to North Shore Drive on Pine Avenue and serve as a prototype for the larger scope of work. City officials hoped to issue a request for proposals for the prototype stretch in December but had yet to receive the green light from the Florida Department of Transportation to move ahead. Crane told The Islander Dec. 18 that he was interested to see what directions the city could take with the project. He proposed at a recent meeting to let contractors provide different designs. “I’m hoping to see something a little different than what was on our drawing board,” Crane said. Short told The Islander Dec. 19 that the project was at the top of his list for things he was excited for in the new year. “2024 will be the year that we’ll get this first section of Pine done, the prototype. We’ll learn from that, then grow that. See if we have to tweak anything from the original plan for Pine or not,” Short said. Short and Salem agreed that they were excited to welcome two people onto the commission to succeed Robert Kingan and Deanie Sebring. “Deanie and Robert are missed and will be missed but I’m looking forward to having two new commissioners working with us to refine this vision and move it forward,” Short said. Salem wrote in a Dec. 22 text message to The Islander that he was most excited for more community events. “Anything that gets the community together,” Salem wrote. “I love the emphasis on parades and gatherings for the local community as a way to remind us all there are many people who call Anna Maria their

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• Anna Maria Island Bridge on State Road 64/ Manatee Avenue: Single-lane closures can be expected 7 p.m.-6 a.m. For more, go to www.swflroads.com. • City center in Holmes Beach: Manatee County’s work on a force main project on Holmes Boulevard, Marina Drive and side streets continues and traffic patterns can change. For the latest, go to amiprojects.io. • Gulf Drive in Bradenton Beach: Manatee County is working on sewer lines along Gulf Drive South. For the latest, go to amiprojects.io.

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Bradenton Beach sets sights on 2024, gears up city projects By Robert anderson Islander Reporter

Bradenton Beach officials are setting their sights on an array of projects in 2024 to address infrastructure improvements, police training, parking issues and planning for one of the island’s largest hotel developments. Mayor John Chappie outlined Dec. 18 the major projects. At the top of his list are the undergrounding of utilities and the remodeling of stormwater systems in north Bradenton Beach. The city is seeking $5 million in state appropriations for utility undergrounding and $2.7 million for stormwater improvements. “With all the work that can be done to help improve health, safety and welfare, undergrounding is really a monumental change for Bradenton Beach and is such a huge part of the resiliency that is needed in each community for hurricane purposes, outages and saving government funds in the future,” Chappie said. Additionally, planning is underway to relocate or elevate the Tingley Memorial Library, integral to a development strategy to create more public parking in the commercial district. Also, the city is creating a pocket park at the east end of Bridge Street near the city pier. The park will serve as a waiting area for passengers of the Gulf Islands Ferry. Chappie also is working with the county to connect

Looking forward … 2024

However, he made it clear he is not in favor of government consolidation. “Local government, to me, is where it’s at and I am hopeful that our state … will listen to the people and what the people want,” Chappie said. “Government should work from the bottom up, not from the top down.” Police Chief John Cosby also spoke about the study: “All the employees from all the three cities are worried about it. They have done nothing wrong to deserve this — the possibility of losing their jobs for no reason. The citizens don’t want it, the businesses don’t want it. So it’s hard for the employees to understand why it’s even happening.”

a multiuse trail from Coquina and Cortez beaches to the commercial district. He said county and city coordination with the Florida Department of Transportation is critical to creating a safe path for pedestrians and cyclists. The new year also will see commissioners and city staff continue to work with developers of a 106-room hotel on Bridge Street, Gulf Drive and Third Street South — Jake Spooner, who resigned his commission seat Dec. 28, and Shawn Kaleta. “We need to get it right,” Chappie said of the development. “We will be working with developers. Hopefully, we will have a superior project that will complement Bridge Street as a destination area.” The mayor said the project could take more than two years to complete. The city also faces a proposal by local legislators to study a possible consolidation of governance, services and fiscal health in the island cities. Chappie expressed his commitment to transparency and cooperation during the study. “It was a lot of work to put together the requested materials for the OPPAGA study but I think it can be The Tingley Memorial library, 111 second st. n., a very useful tool. Every governmental agency should Bradenton Beach, may be relocated to add parking. Islander File Photo: Robert anderson take a good hard look at itself,” he said.

Holmes Beach puts focus on consolidation concerns in 2024 By Ryan Paice Islander Reporter

The city of Holmes Beach was under fire from state and county leadership all of 2023. And, with potential consolidation of the municipality lingering on the horizon, that might not change in 2024. Mayor Judy Titsworth and Commissioners Terry Schaefer, Carol Soustek, Dan Diggins and Greg Kerchner told The Islander the week beginning Dec. 18 that they were primarily concerned with state-led consolidation efforts heading into the new year. Rep. Will Robinson Jr., R-Bradenton, sparked the controversy in January 2023 when he questioned the number of municipalities needed to govern the island at a Manatee County Legislative Delegation meeting. Robinson proposed the delegation commission a study into the potential consolidation of the island cities and the delegation unanimously backed the study, which began in November. The study is projected to be completed by July. “Although government closest to the people is generally more responsive, accountable and effective, I am concerned county and state leaders are no longer seeing the value in small local government,” Titsworth told The Islander Dec. 19. “First it was a bill for a state-mandated parking garage and now the

Looking forward … 2024 threat of consolidation and/or the elimination of our cities.” “This overreach by state leaders is extremely concerning and never would I have ever imagined this to happen to our beloved Anna Maria Island, one of the world’s best kept secrets,” she added. Schaefer, who chairs the commission, told The Islander Dec. 18 that he was interested to see if the study could lead to taxpayer savings without losing the serviceability or responsiveness the city provides. “It’s one thing to say we can save money,” Schaefer said. “But we’ll see if they can prove that we can save money and not decrease service and responsiveness.” Diggins wrote in a Dec. 19 email to The Islander that he was hopeful for a “better path” to address the delegation’s concerns. “I can only hope that in the new year, our county and state representatives can foster a better and more productive relationship with island city leaders,” Diggins wrote. “That way, everyone can enjoy the uniqueness of the island without all the drama.” On a related note, three city officials expressed excitement for the 2024 election cycle and the pos-

sibility of changes in county leadership. Titsworth said, “As a citizen of Manatee County, I am most excited about the upcoming 2024 elections.” Schaefer said he was “hopeful, if not excited” to work with different county leadership since the current county commission has proven to be a “stone wall” for funding from the tourist development council coffers. Kerchner wrote in a Dec. 19 text message to The Islander that he was excited to see increased political interest at the grassroots level. “Folks who may have never been involved in local issues now getting engaged via social media, letters to the editor, public forums, even protests. I honestly believe that is why we now have some quality candidates running for seats on our county commission. That brings potential for meaningful change,” he wrote. Soustek told The Islander Dec. 21 that she was most excited for the city to host more community events, like the Oct. 17 open house at city hall, 5801 Marina Drive. She said city staff enjoyed hosting the event and she hoped the city would continue to provide similar offerings to bring people together and introduce them to the municipality. Commissioner Pat Morton did not respond to calls from The Islander before the press deadline.

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Page 6 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Jan. 3, 2024 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Opinion

Our

Resolutions?

I’d say a lot has happened in the past year that could spawn resolutions for “doing better” in 2024. But that might fall under the label of “hope,” more than resolve. It’s hard to resolve issues of government and governing — and we are stuck in an era of government that could use improvement. We all face pressures in jobs, economy, housing and rising costs — but losing home rule in our cities has reached crisis stage. The tiff over home rule grew into a bigger clash when county and state government coalesced and the path to vengeance — mostly the fight by the county to require Holmes Beach to relinquish parking spaces on beach access roads — was widened to include our state representatives. It took the egregious threat — a plan in the making by the county to build a parking garage at the public beaches — to an unexpected, higher level. It’s like they put their heads together in a huddle, came up with their worst-case scenario and announced they would force the cities to disband, consolidate, merge with the larger municipality of Bradenton or unincorporate and fall under the rule of the county board of commissioners. What a doozy. Who could have imagined it? They — our state reps — proceeded with their plan, gaining a legislative study of consolidation in spite of the fact that false information formed some of their argument for consolidation. Meanwhile, Anna Maria, Bradenton Beach and Holmes Beach officials tried to take a positive stance, saying the study could produce some effective measures — consolidation of resources for the cities. Behind the scenes, the island’s municipal employees — easily the most valued resource for any government — feel threatened. And we don’t blame them. As residents, business owners, vacation property owners on Anna Maria Island, we all should be feeling threatened. And, this week, we learned there is an apparent threat to some city officials that has already resulted in resignations — and that’s the state law that went into effect Jan. 1 that requires elected municipal officials to disclose more financial information than in the past. One Bradenton Beach official resigned and we’re State of the city left to assume his finances are entangled with a develEditor’s note: The following was edited for length. oper and his “vision” of Anna Maria Island. To read the full address, including recognition of city I can only say, if it’s secrecy that is valued over staff and elected ofﬁcials, go to the Holmes Beach service, it’s the best resolution. Facebook page. — Bonner Joy, news@islander.org I would like to express my sincere gratitude and appreciation to all staff for their preparation and recovery efforts from this past hurricane season. I am thankful that we dodged another bullet. We did receive flooding in our low areas and I urge JAN. 3, 2024 • Vol. 32, No. 11 all property owners to take remediation efforts as climate change will play a significant role in the intensity ▼ Publisher, Co-editor of future storms. Damage assessments were completed Bonner Joy, news@islander.org ▼ Editorial and I am thankful that we are being reimbursed 100% editor lisa neff, lisa@islander.org by FEMA. Robert anderson, robert@islander.org I am pleased to say that our building, planning Joe Bird, editorial cartoonist Kevin Cassidy, kevin@islander.org and zoning department and our code department are Jack elka, jack@jackelka.com running exceptionally smooth. Robyn Murrell, robyn@islander.org We are working on land development code updates Ryan Paice, ryan@islander.org with the planning commission and I thank this board ▼ Contributors Karen Riley-love for their dedication in making this happen. Jacob Merrifield Resiliency is a major challenge for barrier island Capt. Danny stasny, fish@islander.org communities and the efforts the team has made in our ▼ Advertising Director Toni lyon, toni@islander.org stormwater improvements and the completion of our ▼ Webmaster Wayne ansell City Center project is notable. ▼ Office Manager, lisa Williams The public works crew continues the maintenance info@, accounting@, classifieds@, subscriptions@islander.org and improvements of city parks, right of ways, storm ▼ Distribution swales, inlets and outfalls, as well as repairing sideUrbane Bouchet walks, repaving city streets and landscaping. Ross Roberts We continue to improve beach access parking by Judy loden Wasco All others: news@islander.org installing posts and decorative ropes to make them more easily identifiable. Beach access parking maps single copies free. Quantities of five or more: 25 cents each. are available as hand-outs and on the website. ©1992-2024 • Editorial, sales and production ofﬁces: 315 58th st., suite J, Holmes Beach Fl 34217 The entrance from East Bay Drive to Grassy Point WeBsITe: islander.org is complete as is the new observation deck on the Text or call: 941-778-7978

Opinion

Your

Skimming online

Website: islander.org Facebook: islandernewspaper X: @ami_islander Instagram: @theislanderami Pinterest: @islandernewspaper News alerts: Register at islander.org E-edition: Subscribe at islander.org boardwalk. The mural on city field is complete as is the additional workout equipment at the field. These amenities were generously donated by the Hagan Foundation. Improvements continue to our city website and a community page was created that can be found at destinationholmes.com. We’re also educating all on our islanders4cleanwater campaign. Our new city treasurer took the ball and ran with it, doing a great job managing the budgets, payables, payroll and audits. I would like to thank the police chief for keeping us safe another year. His officers continue to put their lives on the line each and every day for our residents and guests and I thank them for their service. In human resources, the city continues to do an outstanding job assisting all employees with benefits, needs, and certifications and an update to the employee handbook was a hefty task. As mayor, I continue to stand strong in my belief that all natural resources have limits in human capacity and out of respect for our waters, beaches and the wildlife that live here. I will continue to urge all to Please see OPiniOns, neXT Page

Jan. 3, 2024 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 7 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Tarpon time The caption for the photograph, dated circa 1915-20, reads, “Men with their tarpon catch after a day’s fishing” in Manatee County. Islander Photo: Courtesy Manatee County Public library Digital Collection

Petitions are submitted for a new post office in the village of Cortez. The date on the photo is May 1979. The people in the photo are not identified in the library archives.

reduce their impacts. I also stand strong in my beliefs that the city is a treasure because leaders like you who have respected the comprehensive plan and worked hard in making sure that this city continues to be a beautiful place to visit and a wonderful place to live. State leaders are quoted as saying they want to look at eliminating our city due to us not embracing

From the Dec. 31, 2003, issue

• A man in Anna Maria fatally shot his wife and then fatally shot himself on Christmas. The couple’s children ran to a neighbor, who called police. • Two girls vacationing in Bradenton Beach from Massachusetts escaped injury when a tow rope broke on a parasail ride. The girls drifted over Gulf Drive in Bradenton Beach, where the sail struck an electrical line. • Suzi Fox, executive director of Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch, said Holmes Beach needed a stricter code to protect sea turtles. She said the city had a higher death rate for turtles than other island cities.

From the Jan. 1, 2014, issue

Petitioning for a post office

OPiniOns ConTInUeD FRoM Page 6

10&20 years ago

• The Rusty Anchor Bait and Tackle shop was in full operation on the Historic Bridge Street Pier in Bradenton Beach following a grand opening. • A visitor from Massachusetts called out first responders to the beach to look into a “sticky substance like tar.” • Tourists staying on the island over the holidays were complaining about noise and obstacles associated with a beach renourishment project. One vacationer told The Islander, “We didn’t know and it’s right in front of where we’re staying. We’re just disappointed it happened this week and it’s big.”

tourism, but with our city being one of the top tourist destinations in the world and contributing $40 million in bed tax, that couldn’t be farther from the truth. — lisa neff The only thing we are guilty of is providing balance in a community made up of many competing elements. We have done this by understanding the value of quality of life and the value in protecting our natural Letters to the editor Submit comments along with a name, city of residence and resources. phone number to news@islander.org. Holmes Beach Mayor Judy Titsworth

We’d love to mail you the news!

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

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

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

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

Page 8 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Jan. 3, 2024 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Ongoing investigations might hinder poachers By Robert anderson Islander Reporter

Local guides and environmentalists might be getting a helping hand from a federal maritime law enforcement agency in their fight against poaching marine life in Sarasota Bay. U.S. Coast Guard public affairs specialist Nicole Groll said Dec. 27, 2023, that investigators out of the St. Petersburg station are looking into possible illegal charter activity on the Gulf coast related to marine life poaching. The investigations office is primarily responsible for monitoring passenger-for-hire operations. Groll, in a Dec. 27 email to The Islander, said investigators had seen evidence of marine life poaching as part of illegal charter operations. “We had one incident back in July 2023,” Groll wrote. “Fisheries and livery violations were investigated by Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office. Coast Guard is proffering civil penalty against the owner and operator for operating a passenger service without a captain’s license.” The Coast Guard findings corroborate those of local guides and tour boat operators in Sarasota Bay who, in 2023, noticed significant decreases in the number of edible shellfish on the flats, while conducting their tours. Species such as whelks, clams, pen shells, sea urchins and other bottom-dwelling marine life that were once abundant in the local waters were absent from the flats.

live shellfish seized July 18, 2023, by FWC officers while the FWC investigated allegations of illegal shellfish harvesting off Jewfish Key in sarasota Bay. The seizure included sea pen, conch, whelk and clams, as well as a pair of crab claws. Islander File Photo: Courtesy FWC

The tour boat captains also observed multiple groups, sometimes up to 60 people, collecting sea life from sandbars and grass flats in the bay. The captains reported the activity to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, which issued some citations in the summer of 2023. The captains — Katie Tupin of Captain Katie Scarlett Boat Tours of Cortez, Joe Sweet of Sweet Sunsets and Dolphin Tours out of Anna Maria, Bruce Adamo of Passage Key Dolphin Tours of Anna Maria and Matt and Beth Wright of Island Time Boat Tours of Holmes Beach — have continued to observe while on the water and, in October, they held a meeting in Cortez to discuss solutions. Sweet said he’s been in touch with captains elsewhere in Florida and that those operating as far south as Florida Bay were reporting poaching, including from charter boats. “If people are taking people out to gather wildlife of any kind. Getting shellfish is just like going fishing. It’s a fishing charter at that point,” he said. “Are they taking prohibited species? Is it being done illegally? That’s the area that needs to see more attention.” Sweet said the captains plan another meeting early in the new year. Groll, in a text Dec. 21, said the Coast Guard has an interest in reaching out to Sweet and the other captains. “Our investigators are very interested in the next meeting to see if they can help with education and how best everyone can work together,” Groll wrote.

ELECTION NEWS 2024 poll dates set

Islanders didn’t get an opportunity to cast ballots in 2023 because there were no contested municipal seats but they have three dates at the polls in 2024. The Manatee County Supervisor of Elections posted dates for 2024 and they include: • March 19, presidential preference primary. The voter registration deadline is Tuesday, Feb. 20. • Aug. 20, primary. The registration deadline is Monday, July 22. • Nov. 5, general election. The registration deadline is Monday, Oct. 7. For more, go to votemanatee.com. — lisa neff

Flashback ’23

flashback ConTInUeD FRoM Page 1

Conservancy, working with Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring, released a female loggerhead sea turtle named “Suzi” at Coquina Beach in Bradenton Beach. Captains, FWC thwart poaching: Shellfish poachers were cited over the July 4 holiday with credit due to the observations of tour boat captains and the efforts of Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission officers. Ferries arrive, Anna Maria balks on agreement: Anna Maria Mayor Dan Murphy hinted at potentially walking away from an interlocal agreement that would allow the county-subsidized service to use the city pier as a water taxi stop. Beach joyrider drives over turtle nests: A joyrider on the beach disturbed four sea turtle nests in Anna Maria and Holmes Beach. Holmes Beach approves preserve improvements: City commissioners reached consensus to authorize Mayor Judy Titsworth to execute a $169,770.42 agreement with Pinellas Park-based Khors Construction to complete improvements at Grassy Point Preserve. BB commissioner buys bank building: Bradenton Beach City Commissioner Jake Spooner purchased a 1.83-acre two-lot commercial property at 5325 and 5327 Gulf Drive in Holmes Beach for $4,750,000. AME assailant pleads no contest: A man arrested in connection to an assault outside Anna Maria Elementary School dropped his case weeks before it was set to go to trial and pleaded no contest to aggravated battery. County gives nod to new beach market operator: Manatee County commissioners voted to approve a franchise agreement with Ready Set Go Tour & Travel for the company to coordinate a new Coquina Beach market at the county-run beach in Bradenton Beach. Community center at $257,887 loss: The community center finished its fiscal year $257,887 in the red after falling into a $222,187.32 deficit only three months through. Dredging gets underway at Beer Can: A dredging project paused earlier in the nesting season to allow the incubation of a sea turtle nest on Longboat Key’s Beer Can Island was getting back underway. Please, see flashback, Page 20

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Jan. 3, 2024 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 9 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Meetings

By lisa neff

ANNA MARIA CITY

Questions set for Anna Maria applicant forum By Ryan Paice Islander Reporter

The stage is set for a public forum to introduce two Anna Maria City Commission hopefuls. The city gathered 30 questions from the public by its Dec. 27 deadline and sent them Dec. 29 to the applicants, Gary McMullen and Kathleen MorganJohnson. Six residents originally applied for two vacant BRADENTON BEACH seats but four withdrew. The vacant seats were held by Robert Kingan and Jan. 4, 6 p.m., commission. Deanie Sebring. Jan. 17, 1 p.m., ScenicWAVES. Sebring resigned in October and her successor Jan. 18, noon, commission. Bradenton Beach City Hall, 107 Gulf Drive N., 941-778-1005, will serve the remainder of her term, which expires in December 2024. cityofbradentonbeach.com. Meanwhile, no one qualified to run for the seat HOLMES BEACH occupied by Kingan, who decided not to seek a second Jan. 3, 10 a.m., parks and beautiﬁcation. term in November. Jan. 9. 2 p.m., commission. The applicants will introduce themselves during a Jan. 10, 9 a.m., clean water committee. public forum at 6 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 11, at city hall, Jan. 10, 5 p.m., planning. 10005 Gulf Drive. Jan. 23, 10 a.m., code compliance. The applicants will have a chance to answer writJan. 23, 5 p.m., commission. ten questions submitted by the public, in addition to Holmes Beach City Hall, 5801 Marina Drive, 941-708-5800, responding to live questions. holmesbeachﬂ.org. Of the written questions, several ask for basic information, such as how long applicants have lived MANATEE COUNTY Jan. 11, 6 p.m., commission meeting. Jan. 11, 6 p.m., candidate forum. Jan. 25, 6 p.m., commission meeting. Jan. 25, 6 p.m., applicant selection. Anna Maria City Hall, 10005 Gulf Drive, 941-708-6130, cityofannamaria.com.

Jan. 9, 9 a.m., commission. Jan. 16, 9 a.m., commission. Jan. 23, 9 a.m., commission. County administration building, 1112 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton, 941-748-4501, mymanatee.org. ALSO OF INTEREST Jan. 8, 2 p.m., Island Transportation Planning Organization, Anna Maria. Jan. 15, Martin Luther King Jr. Day, federal holiday. Most government ofﬁces will be closed. Please, send meeting notices to calendar@islander.org and news@islander.org.

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 21,000plus friends who “like” The Islander and share their social news.

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in the city, what their occupations are and their motivations for joining the commission. Some questions ask for a history of public involvement, such as if applicants have served in other McMullen elected positions. A pair of questions asks for thoughts on the reimagining Pine Avenue project, as well as the potential elimination of parallel parking along Pine as part of the work. Other questions include: • If you could initiate one new city Morganproject, what would it be? Johnson • Do you agree with the annual financial support the commission and the city provide the Center of Anna Maria Island? • Do you have any suggestions to improve parking in Anna Maria? • If appointed, would you support increasing or decreasing the current millage rate? • What are your thoughts on the Florida Office of Program Policy Analysis and Government Accountability consolidation study and the idea of potentially combining the three island cities into one city or annexing the three cities into Manatee County or the city of Bradenton? McMullen and Morgan-Johnson will have an opportunity to answer the questions at the forum. The three seated commissioners are scheduled to vote to appoint new members at 6 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 25. Whoever receives the most votes from the seated commissioners will choose between the one- and twoyear term, leaving the other term to the applicant with the second-most votes. Mayor Dan Murphy has said the commissioners are not required to appoint applicants if they do not find them suitable for the vacant seats.

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Island happenings

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

Compiled by lisa neff, calendar@islander.org

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT ON AMI

Friends of the Island Library host lecture and travel series The Friends of the Island Library will open its annual lecture and travel series Thursday, Jan. 11, hosting Cathy Salustri talking about “Backroads to Paradise.” Salustri traveled nearly 5,000 miles across the state to visit and experience the places written about in tour books produced by the Federal Writers Project of the Works Progress Administration.

Friday, Jan. 5 2-3:30 p.m. — Paper crafting, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341. Saturday, Jan. 6 Jan. 26, Center/Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors 2 p.m. — Paper crafting, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Bureau Croce Plays Croce concert, Anna Maria. Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341. Feb. 23, Center/Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Wednesday, Jan. 10 Bureau Guess Who Alumni concert, Anna Maria. 6:30 p.m. — Island Time Book Club, Island Library, 5701 Marina March 7-24, Island Players’ “Communicating Doors,” Anna Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341. Maria. March 10, Island Players’ “The Woman in Black” auditions, ONGOING ON AMI Anna Maria. Jan. 10-12, 11 a.m.-1 p.m., Artists’ Guild of Anna Maria Island’s April 6, Center/Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau monthly Paint the Town, demonstrations and other activities, Artists’ Al Jardin concert, Anna Maria. Guild Gallery, 5414 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941May 2-12, Island Players’ “The Woman in Black,” Anna 778-6694. Maria. Throughout January, “Sky Wonders” by Karen Eddy, Artists’ MARKETS & SALES Guild Gallery, 5414 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941778-6694. ONGOING ON AMI ONGOING OFF AMI

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

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

KIDS & FAMILY ON AMI Friday, Jan. 5 10 a.m. — 40 Carrots parenting program, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341. Tuesday, Jan. 9 10 a.m. — Family storytime, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341. ONGOING ON AMI

Select Thursdays Shark Pups and Grownups preschool proWednesdays, Fridays, Sundays, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Coquina gram, Mote Marine Science Education and Outreach Center on Beach Market, Coquina Beach, Bradenton Beach. Information: Anna Maria City Pier, Pine Avenue and Bay Boulevard, Anna Maria. Information: mote.org. 941-840-0789, coquinabeachmarket.org. Select Fridays — Jan. 12, Feb. 9, March 8, April 12 — 5:30ONGOING OFF AMI 7:30 p.m., Holmes Beach Night Market, Holmes Beach. Information: First Wednesdays, SOAR in 4 family night, the Bishop Museum, 941-778-6694. Tuesdays, 8:30 a.m.-2 p.m., Anna Maria Farmers Market, City 201 10th St. W., Bradenton. Fee applies. Information: 941-746-4131, Pier Park, Pine Avenue and Bay Boulevard. Anna Maria. Information: bishopscience.org. Third Fridays, Teen Nights, the Bishop Museum, 201 10th St. 941-708-6130. Select dates, Artists’ Guild Gallery Paint the Town sidewalk W., Bradenton. Fee applies. Information: 941-746-4131, bishopdemonstrations and sales events, 5414 Marina Drive, Holmes science.org. Second Saturdays, Quest for Kids, the Bishop Museum, 201 Beach. Information: 941-778-6694. 10th St. W., Bradenton. Fee applies. Information: 941-746-4131, ONGOING OFF AMI bishopscience.org. Saturdays through May 7, 9 a.m.-2 p.m., Bradenton Market, SAVE THE DATE Old Main Street, Bradenton. Information: 941-301-8445. Jan. 11-21, Manatee County Fair, Palmetto. SAVE THE DATE

Through Jan. 7, “Guercino’s Friar with a Gold Earring” exhibit, the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, 5401 Bay Shore Road, Sarasota. Fee applies. Information: 941-360-7390, ringling.org. Throughout January, “I Must Have Flowers” exhibit by Debbie Snow, Island Gallery and Studios, 456 Old Main St., Bradenton. Information: 941-778-6648. Through April 28, “Dali and the Impressionists,” the Dali Museum, 1 Dali Blvd., St. Petersburg. Fee applies. Information: 727-823-3767. Through June 23, “Mountains of the Mind: Scholars’ Rocks from China and Beyond” exhibit, the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, 5401 Bay Shore Road, Sarasota. Fee applies. Information: 941-360-7390, ringling.org. First Fridays, 6-9:30 p.m., Village of the Arts First Fridays Artwalk, 12th Street West and 12th Avenue West, Bradenton. Information: villageofthearts.com. Second and fourth Saturdays, 2-4 p.m., Music on the Porch CLUBS & Jan. 13-14, Anna Maria Winter Arts and Crafts Market, Holmes jam session, presented by the Florida Maritime Museum and Cortez COMMUNITY Beach. Cultural Center, 4415 119th St. W., Cortez. Information: ﬂoridamariJan. 20-21, Coquina Beach Winter Arts and Crafts Market, ON AMI timemuseum.org. Bradenton Beach. SAVE THE DATE Feb. 9-10, Feed the Peeps Arts and Crafts Market, Anna Thursday, Jan. 4 1 p.m. — Sunshine Stitchers Knit and Crochet Club, Island Maria. Jan. 11-28, Island Players’ “The Mousetrap,” Anna Maria. Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778March 2-3, The Invitational, Holmes Beach. Jan. 13, Center of Anna Maria Island/Bradenton Area ConvenMarch 8-9, Feed the Peeps Arts and Crafts Market, Anna 6341. tion and Visitors Bureau Foghat concert, Anna Maria. ONGOING ON AMI Jan. 21, Island Players’ “Communicating Doors” auditions, Maria. April 6-7, Coquina Beach Spring Arts and Crafts Market, BraAnna Maria. Most Saturdays, 8:30 a.m., Kiwanis Club of Anna Maria Island meeting, Bradenton Beach City Hall, 107 Gulf Drive N., Bradenton WE’VE GOT YOU COVERED. Beach. Information: 941-778-1383. Most Tuesdays, noon, Rotary Club of Anna Maria Island meeting, Bridge Street Bistro, 111 Gulf Drive S., Bradenton Beach. Infor-

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

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Island happenings

Jan. 3, 2024 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 11 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

mation: 941-718-5583. ONGOING OFF AMI

Third Thursdays, 6:30 p.m., through April, Manatee Audubon Society meetings, First United Methodist Church of Palmetto, 330 11th Ave. W., Palmetto. Information: manateeaudubon@gmail.com, Expect the crowd at the Center of Anna Maria 941-729-2222. Island to “move to the music” Jan. 13.

Foghat to storm center

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

LESSONS & LEARNING ON AMI Saturday, Jan. 6 10 a.m.-1 p.m. — Ask a Master Gardener, , Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341. ONGOING OFF AMI Thursdays, Jan. 11-Feb. 22, 2 p.m., Friends of the Island Library Lecture and Travel Series, Roser Memorial Community Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Information: 941-778-6341. ONGOING OFF AMI Mondays, 1 p.m., Longboat Key Paradise Center for Healthy Living Thinking Out Loud discussions, 546 Bay Isles Road, Longboat Key. Information: 941-383-6493.

SPORTS & GAMES ONGOING ON AMI Most Wednesdays, 1 p.m., mahjong club beginners, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-7786341. Most Fridays, 11:30 a.m., mahjong club experienced players, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941778-6341. Mondays, 10 a.m., morning yoga, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341. SAVE THE DATE Jan. 12, Center of Anna Maria Island Bingo Night begins, Anna Maria. Jan. 18-March 28, Thursdays, Annie Silver Community Center bingo, Bradenton Beach. Feb. 24, 2024, Pittsburgh Pirates spring training opens, Bradenton. April 5, 2024, Bradenton Marauders season opens, Bradenton.

OUTDOORS & NATURE ON AMI

The center, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria, will host the rock band Foghat in concert that Saturday night. The band formed in London in 1971 and for more than 50 years has produced its mix of blues. boogie and rock. Classic Foghat tunes include “I Just Want to Make Love to You,” “Drivin’ Wheel” and “Slow Ride.” Other concerts in the 2023-24 season presented by the Manatee County Tourist Development Council and the Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau include: • A.J. Croce performing his father Jim Croce’s music Jan. 26. • The Guess Who Alumni performing Feb. 23. • And Beach Boys founding member Al Jardine performing April 6. “We absolutely love hosting this series every year,” said center executive director Christopher Culhane. “It continuously remains.” Doors open at 6 p.m. for all shows with an opening act at 7 p.m. and headliners at 8 p.m. For more about tickets, go online to centerami. org. For more about the center, call the center at 941778-1908.

Guild ‘Paints the Town’

The Artists’ Guild of Anna Maria Island opens 2024 with its “Paint the Town” celebration, which features activities at the gallery, including demonstrations 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Wednesday-Friday, Jan. 10-12. In addition, AGAMI is involved in the monthly Holmes Beach Night Market along with other City Center businesses. The next market will be 5-7:30 p.m. Friday, Jan. 12. Other dates include Feb. 9, March 8 and April 12. For more information about AGAMI, call the gallery at 941-778-6694.

Fair days ahead

The Manatee County Fair will return Jan 11-21 to Palmetto. Daily admission is $10 for those 13 and older, with tickets available at manateecountyfair.com, as well as at the gates. There are discounted rates for others — active duty military, $6; children ages 6-12, $6; children 5 and under free. Parking is $10. Fair hours vary by day. The fairgrounds are at 1303 17th St. W. For more information, go online to www.manatee‘The Mousetrap’ is set countyfair.com. The Island Players will stage the third production of the 75th season, Agatha Christie’s “The Mousetrap,” Kiwanis to meet Jan. 11-28. The Kiwanis Club of Anna Maria Island will The murder-mystery was first performed in Longather at 8:30 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 6, at Bradenton don’s West End in 1952 and was staged continuously until March 16, 2020, when it closed temporarily due Beach City Hall, 107 Gulf Drive N. The program will include remarks by Dr. Ron Gilbert on “how modern to the coronavirus pandemic. Heiko Knipfelberg is directing the island produc- technology can reverse” dementia. For more, call Sandy Haas-Martens at 941-778tion, with a cast that includes Knipfelberg, Sylvia Marnie, Kristin Mazzitelli, Colin Brady, Dan Cop- 1383. pinger, Eric Johnson, Hugh Scanlon and Catherine Submit social news to news@islander.org. Please, include Penta. Performances will be 7:30 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday time, date and location for events, as well as a contact name and phone number for publication. And, thanks for sharing! and 2 p.m. Sunday. The theater, 10009 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria, is dark Monday. Throughout the run, the Players will collect nonperishable food items for the Roser Food Pantry. The box office, 10009 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria, is open 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Monday-Saturday and an hour before showtime and also online at theislandplayers. org. For more information, call the box office at 941Available At… . .. 778-5755.

Tuesday, Jan. 2 9 a.m. — Manatee County Parks and Natural Resources’ Coquina Beach Cleanup, 2651 Gulf Drive S., Bradenton Beach. Information: 941-742-5923. 10299 Ninth Ave. NW, Bradenton. Information: 941-742-5923, Thursday, Jan. 4 mymanatee.org. 9 a.m. — Manatee County Parks and Natural Resources’ Bayfront Park Cleanup, 316 N. Bay Blvd., Anna Maria. Information: CALENDAR NOTES 941-742-5923. KEEP THE DATES OFF AMI Jan. 15, Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Thursday, Jan. 4 Feb. 2, Groundhog Day. 5:30 p.m. — Game Night at the NEST, Robinson Preserve, Feb. 13, Mardi Gras. 10299 Ninth Ave. NW, Bradenton. Information: 941-742-5923, Feb. 14, Valentine’s Day. mymanatee.org. Feb. 15, Susan B. Anthony Day. Feb. 19, Presidents Day. ONGOING OFF AMI March 10, daylight saving time begins. Saturdays, 9 a.m., Mornings at the NEST, Robinson Preserve, March 17, St. Patrick’s Day.

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Page 12 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Jan. 3, 2024 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Community come-together about 65 aMI “neighbors” and their friends gather Dec. 24, 2023, on the beach near the White avenue access for a tradition — a sandsnowman competition. “It is one of our many annual special occasions where we come together to help keep our special community vibrant,” Deb sneddon of Holmes Beach wrote The Islander Dec. 26. she added, “We wish everyone a happy, healthy and peace-filled 2024.” Islander Courtesy Photos The Pate family celebrates taking first-place in the Dec. 24, 2023, sandsnowman competition held on the beach near their home on White avenue in Holmes Beach. The family built santa and a sleigh pulled by dolphins delivering a new member of the family, baby alexandria “allie” Jay Thibault.

anna Maria administrative assistant Barbara Jefferies, left, presents the city’s 2023 Bright Holiday lights firstplace award in the business category Dec. 20, 2023, to Dan novi, husband of shiny Fish emporium owner Rebecca Preston. novi decorated the business, 306 Pine ave., which won out over the aMI Beach Hut, anna Maria general store, anna Maria life, Duncan Real estate and others.

Lighting the way through the holidays andrea and Jim stepan pose amid holiday decorations Dec. 20, 2023, in their yard at 602 gladiolus st., anna Maria, after being named the residential winners of the city’s Bright Holiday lights contest for the second year in a row. Islander Photos: Courtesy anna Maria

Milestones

The Islander welcomes stories about islanders and island life. Submit your announcements and photographs with captions for publication — along with contact information — to news@islander.org.

You can read it all online at islander.org

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Jan. 3, 2024 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 13 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

AME Calendar

Sweet AME holiday tradition Vicki Dunning, school nurse, reaches for a red velvet cookie Dec. 20, 2023, at the anna Maria elementary ParentTeacher organization annual cookie exchange for teachers and staff. Dunning, with 17 years of service, said the cookie exchange is a tradition she’s enjoyed since starting at the Holmes Beach school. Islander Photo: Robyn Murrell

• Tuesday, Jan. 9, students return from winter break. • Friday, Jan. 12, 3:45 p.m., PTO board meeting. • Friday, Jan. 12, 6:30 p.m., PTO family social, outdoor movie, school playground. • Monday, Jan. 15, Martin Luther King Jr. Day, no school. • Thursday, Jan. 25, 3:45 p.m., school advisory council meeting. • Friday, Jan. 26, walkathon, school playground. • Sunday, Feb. 11, 3 p.m., PTO family social, “Souper Bowl” party, Center of Anna Maria Island, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria. AME is at 4700 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. For more information, call the school at 941-708-5525.

Flashback ’23

Wednesday, Jan 3rd Friday, Jan 5th Sunday, Jan 7th 10AM - 4PM

gunnar Maize, 10, right, walks brother Thane, 4, to Thane’s first session of prekindergarten in august 2023. The boys were escorted on the first day of the new academic year by their mother, Devan Maize. Islander Photo: Robert anderson

Visit The Coquina Beach Market

Here is what you will see at our Market: jewelry, candles, fresh lemonade, women’s apparel, custom & creative artwork, freezedried candy, fresh baked goods, pet items, home décor, metal artwork, stuffed turtles, sunglasses, Celtic jewelry, caps, skin care products, water totes & bags, t-shirts, guacamole, windchimes, bracelets, eco friendly bug spray, aloe vera lotions, Chimichurri sauce, jerky, fresh coconut drink, licorice, pearl jewelry, toys and MORE.

Music by Mike Sales from 11AM - 2PM on Wednesday NEW LOCATION: The Coquina Beach Market is located on the very South end of Anna Maria Island. If driving, take the South entrance to the park before the Longboat Pass bridge. If taking the trolley, walk South from the Café to the end of the island.

www.coquinabeachmarket.org 941-840-0789 https://www.facebook.com/CoquinaBeachMarket/

anna Maria elementary principal Michael Masiello aug. 10, 2023, addresses parents during a welcome back coffee in the school auditorium. Islander File Photo: Robert anderson

WEDNESDAYS ARE BACK! ENTIRE FLEA MARKET OPEN 7%$ s &2) s 3!4 s 35. 9AM-4PM

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Page 14 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Jan. 3, 2024 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Gathering

Pancake breakfast planned

a.m.

Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, 6608 Marina Drive. Holmes

The Holy Name Society of St. Bernard Catholic Beach. Info: 941-778-1813, gloriadeilutheran.com. Church, 248 S. Harbor Drive, Holmes Beach, will hold Worship: Sundays, 9:30 a.m., followed by coffee and fellowa pancake breakfast 8 a.m.-noon Sunday, Jan. 14. ship. Breakfast will include coffee, juice, eggs, sausage Harvey Memorial Community Church, 300 Church Ave., and all-you-can-eat pancakes for $10. Bradenton Beach. Information: 941-779-1912. For more information, call the church at 941-778Worship: Sundays, 9:15 a.m. 4769.

By lisa neff

Roser to host Mom’s Cafe

Roser Memorial Community Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, will host Mom’s Cafe at 9:30 a.m. Wednesday, Jan. 24, for moms to “discuss joys and challenges of motherhood in a judgment-free zone.” Those who go will find coffee, conversation and community connection. The cafe also will open Jan. 31 and every other week through May with dates to be announced. For more information, call the church at 941-7780414 or go to roserchurch.com.

Obituary

James ‘Jim’ Kronus III

Tidings

Roser Memorial Community Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Information: 941-778-0414, roserchurch.com. Compiled by lisa neff Worship: Sundays, 8:30 a.m., 10 a.m. St. Bernard Catholic Church, 248 S. Harbor Drive, Holmes SAVE THE DATE Beach. Info: 941-778-4769, stbernardcc.org, ofﬁce@stbernardcc. Jan. 21, Episcopal Church of the Annunciation annual meeting org. and brunch, Holmes Beach. Worship: Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m.; Saturdays, 4 p.m.; SunFeb. 10, Episcopal Church of the Annunciation White Elephant days, 8:30 a.m., 10:30 a.m. sale, Holmes Beach. ONGOING OFF AMI Feb. 13 Shrove Tuesday/Mardi Gras. Christ Church of Longboat Key Presbyterian USA, 6400 Feb. 14, Ash Wednesday. Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key. Info: 941-900-4903, christchurFeb. 23-24, St. Bernard Catholic Church rummage sale, choﬂbk.org. Holmes Beach. Worship: Sundays, 10 a.m. ONGOING ON AMI Longboat Island Chapel, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat CrossPointe Fellowship, 8605 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. Key. Info: 941-383-6491, longboatislandchapel.org. Info: 941-778-0719, crosspointefellowship.church. Worship: Sundays, 10 a.m. Worship: Sundays, 9 a.m. Temple Beth Israel, 567 Bay Isles Road, Longboat Key. Info: Ongoing: Wednesdays, 7 a.m., men’s Bible meeting; Wednes- 941-383-3428. days, 6 p.m., Wednesday Night Blast supper and 6:30 p.m., WednesWorship: Fridays, Shabbat, 5:30 p.m.; Saturdays, 10 a.m. day Night Blast; Fridays, 10 a.m. women’s Bible meeting. GET LISTED, CHANGE LISTINGS Episcopal Church of the Annunciation, 4408 Gulf Drive, Please, send listings and changes in calendars and other Holmes Beach. Info: 941-778-1638, amiannunciation.org. Worship: Thursdays, 9:30 a.m.; Sundays, 8 a.m. and 10:15 events to calendar@islander.org.

James “Jim” Patrick Kronus III, 82, of Bradenton died Dec. 18, 2023. He was born May 17, 1941, in Bridgeport, Connecticut, to James Patrick Kronus Jr. and Sophie (Zekala) Kronus. He attended Fairfield College Preparatory School and Wagner College, where he received a bachelor of Former anna Maria elescience degree in education in 1965. mentary school principal He received his master of arts degree Jim Kronus visits the island in education from Western Carolina campus March 4, 2008, as Kronus III University. a “Read across Manatee” Mr. Kronus served 25 years as volunteer. In honor of Dr. principal at Anna Maria Elementary, from 1974 to his seuss’s birthday and in an retirement in January 1999. effort to promote readHe was named Islander of the Year for 1998, ing, Kronus read “oh the including recognition on the cover of the Dec. 30, 1998 Places You’ll go” to Karen edition of The Islander. The cover story can be viewed newhall’s third-grade class. with the obituary at islander.org. Islander File Photo He returned to AME when the auditorium was dedicated in his name in April 2008. He was truly honored and humbled by the recognition at the reception held in his honor and thanked everyone who attended. Mr. Kronus said then, “My life was better for all the wonderful people I knew.” Following the naming and unveiling of a plaque he did at every event during his tenure — to lead the nal school at 4700 Gulf Drive that remained in use after the school was rebuilt in 2006. for the James P. Kronus Auditorium by principal Tom pledge of allegiance. He loved his family and friends, his “little school The auditorium was the only structure of the origiLevengood, Mr. Kronus stretched out his arms — as by the bay,” his students and their families, his staff and all of Anna Maria Island. Growing in Jesus’ Name And his love for AME and Anna Maria Island was Worship With Us at Our Church much appreciated. He had a grace and manner about Sunday Service 10:00 AM him that made everyone feel warm, protected and Dr. Julia Wharff Piermont, Pastor loved. Many students and parents recall that he asked DĞŶ’Ɛ ŝďůĞ ^ƚƵĚǇ͗ DŽŶĚĂǇ Λ ϵ͗ϬϬ that they bring him a cupcake on their birthdays — and tŽŵĞŶ’Ɛ ŝďůĞ ^ƚƵĚǇ͗ tĞĚŶĞƐĚĂǇ Λ ϭϬ͗ϬϬ each student got a personal greeting and thank-you tĂƚĐŚ KƵƌ 1Ϭ͗ϬϬ D ^ĞrǀŝĐĞ >ŝǀĞ͗ from him on their special day. ǁǁǁ͘ďŝƚ͘ůǇ/ĐĐůďŬƐĞƌŵŽŶƐ or The family suggests memorial donations be made www.christchurchof ůďŬ͘ŽƌŐ (ĨŽůůŽǁ zŽƵdƵďĞ ůŝŶkͿ in his name to Tidewell Hospice. Brown & Sons Funeral Homes & Crematory 43rd Street Chapel was in charge of arrangements. Mr. Kronus is survived by his wife, Dalene; son an invitation to the • • PM James P. Kronus audito- James and wife Lisa; daughters Denise and husband Scott Ruoff and Dana and husband Chris Vining; rium dedication cergrandchildren Lauren, Taylor, Austin, Alex, Peyton, emony at anna Maria KŶ ^ƵŶĚĂǇ͕ :ĂŶƵĂƌǇ ϭϰ͕ ĂĐĐůĂŝŵĞĚ ǀŝŽůŝŶŝƐƚ ^ƚĞǁĂƌƚ <ŝƩƐ ǁŝůů ďƌŝŶŐ ŚŝƐ ^ƚƌŝŶŐ YƵĂƌƚĞƚ ƚŽ ŽƵƌ Camden and Hayley; great-grandchildren Miles, Marelementary includes a ĮƌƐƚ tŝŶƚĞƌ ŽŶĐĞƌƚ͘ ^ƚĞǁĂƌƚ ŚĂƐ ƉĞƌĨŽƌŵĞĚ ƚǁŽ ƉŽƉƵůĂƌ ƌĞĐŝƚĂůƐ ĨŽƌ ƵƐ ŝŶ ƚŚĞ ƉĂƐƚ͘ ,Ğ ŚĂƐ ƉƵƚ celine and Maverick; and sisters Patricia Fitzgerald and photo of the 2008 stuƚŽŐĞƚŚĞƌ ŚŝƐ ŐƌŽƵƉ ǁŝƚŚ ƚŚƌĞĞ ŽĨ ƚŚĞ ĮŶĞƐƚ ŵƵƐŝĐŝĂŶƐ ŝŶ ƚŚĞ ^ŽƵƚŚĞĂƐƚĞƌŶ hŶŝƚĞĚ ^ƚĂƚĞƐ͘ dŚŝƐ Florence Bohn. ƉƌŽŐƌĂŵ ƉƌŽŵŝƐĞƐ ƚŽ ŝŶƐƉŝƌĞ͕ ĚĂǌǌůĞ ĂŶĚ ĚĞůŝǀĞƌ Ă ĐŽŵƉůĞƚĞ ƌĂŶŐĞ ŽĨ ŵƵƐŝĐĂů ĞŵŽƟŽŶƐ͘ dent body showing the

WINTER CONCERT SERIES Sunday

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school’s affection for the former 25-year principal.

At your service Obituaries are offered as a community service. Submit to news@islander.org.

Roser Church

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

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

Jan. 3, 2024 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 15 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Flashback ’23: Remembering those who lived, worked on AMI Compiled by Lisa Neff Islander Editor

Over the course of 52 weekly issues, The Islander carried the news — tributes and notices — of people with island ties who died in 2023. The Islander looks back over the year ended and remembers those who lived on AMI, worked on AMI and volunteered on AMI: Francis S. Cashin, 95, of Holmes Beach, died Jan. 3. He worked for IBM as a tool and diemaker, an instructor and in engineering management positions. Michael Jenson, 74, of Chicago and Holmes Beach, died Jan. 4. He was guided by his principle, “Go as far as you can until someone stops you.” James Christopher “Chris” Corrigan, 63, of Bradenton, died Jan. 5. He was a talented musician who worked hard to perfect his style, a rock ’n’ roll drummer with local bands spanning many years. Retired Naval Lt. Cmdr. John L. McDonald Jr., 89, of Bradenton and Cannon Falls, Minnesota, died Jan. 17. He was born in Cortez and was a founding member of the Florida Maritime Museum and the Cortez Village Cultural Center. Marilyn “Meo” Diane Fox McIntosh, 80, formerly of Anna Maria Island, died Jan. 27. She was a descendant of immigrants who sailed to North America on the Mayflower in 1620. Alan Hardy Prather, 74, died Feb. 5. He represented government entities in one capacity or another, including Manatee County, the cities of Bradenton, Bradenton Beach and Palmetto, as well as the Manatee County School Board and various special districts and corporations. Thomas Q. McDonnell, 81, of Anna Maria Island, formerly of East Aurora, New York, died Feb. 9. He was a veteran of the U.S. Air Force and served as an intelligence officer in Maui, Hawaii, and Biloxi, Mississippi, among other places. Suzanne “Tootie” (Kane) Baldini, 93, of Holmes Beach, died Feb. 24. She vacationed on AMI for years and made Island Village her permanent home upon retirement. Major “Maj” Leckie, 91, of Leander, Texas, and formerly of Holmes Beach, died Feb. 26. He was known for his warm, outgoing personality and all who knew him were instantly a friend. Patricia “Pat” Garrett, 79, of Holmes Beach and Portland, Maine, died March 2. She was a biochemist who conducted cutting-edge research on HIV/AIDS. Stephen “Steve” Alton Schmidt, 66, formerly of Holmes Beach, died March 4. He was a newspaper man and publisher. While living in Holmes Beach, he launched Better Living magazine for The New York Times. Robert John Hubler, 72, of Bradenton, died March 9. He was known by many as the “House Doctor” and was always willing to give advice. Daryl Van Ostenbridge, 87, a Chicago native and longtime resident of Anna Maria Island, died March 16. She was a retired nurse, avid reader and huge baseball fan. Billy “Bill” L. Rouse, 75, of Holmes Beach, died March 21. He enjoyed having a beer with friends. Priscilla Barranger, 95, formerly of Holmes Beach, died March 26. She volunteered with Meals on Wheels, the Roser Church thrift shop and Here’s to You at Blake Medical Center. Renal Belanger Hook, 94, of Bradenton and formerly of Anna Maria, died April 8. He took adventures across six continents. Benjamin Stewart, 50, of Boulder, Colorado, and formerly of Holmes Beach, died April 9. He coached many youth sports teams at the Center of Anna Maria

Former Anna Maria Commissioner Gene Aubry shows his 1928 Chevrolet National at a Bayfest classic car show on Pine Avenue in Anna Maria. Islander File Photo: Lisa Neff

In his honor

Hugh G. Holmes, who died May 8, was celebrated by family — including 90 members and two more on the way when the photo was taken in November 2022 — along with many friends and local officials at a service May 17, 2023, at Roser Memorial Community Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Holmes was honored the day of the service at the West Manatee Fire Rescue Station 3 in Holmes Beach, where a flag was draped from the ladder truck in tribute, and at Holmes Beach City Hall, where the flag flew at half-staff in honor of his service to the city, where years ago he served on the council. Islander Courtesy Photo

Island. Marylou Kelley, 62, of Holmes Beach, died April 10. She was a member of the Bradenton Beach public works team. Ernie Schneevogl, 88, of Holmes Beach, died April 12. In retirement, he enjoyed working in the yard, drum-and-bugle corps music, aviation and keeping up with the local fishing community over breakfast. Mark M. Pastorius, 65, of Apple Valley, Minnesota, died April 30. He had a love for the open road, riding his motorcycle and visits to family in Cortez. Jeffrey “JT” Edward Tarr, 65, of Bradenton, died April 30. He was an artist who also had a long career in the service industry, including at the Beach Bistro and Blue Marlin. Lou Carson, 58, of Holmes Beach, died May 2.

Stephen J. Pere, DMD

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

please, see remembering, Page 18

ARTISTS’ GUILD

OF ANNA MARIA ISLAND

Holmes Beach Night Market Jan. 8 to Jan. 13, Feb. 5 to Feb. 10 • Sidewalk Demos • People’s Choice Award

Private Practice • Convenient to Island • Accepts Most Insurances

She worked at Moore’s Stone Crab Restaurant on Longboat Key and the Ugly Grouper. John Shaughnessy, 88, formerly of Bradenton Beach, died May 4. He served as mayor 2011-13. He also served as a commissioner for six years. Hugh G. Holmes, 96, of Holmes Beach, died May 8. He was a founder and CEO of Island Bank, owned and operated Holmes Construction Co. until the early 1970s and headed up the construction of many houses, motels, condominiums and commercial buildings on the island. Bradley Keith Olson, 58, died May 8. He worked at many restaurants on the island and told many a story — some pretty unbelievable. Loretta Jo Tupin, 68, of Bradenton, died May 15.

• Paint-A-Round

Fridays, Jan. 12 and Feb. 9 5 to 7:30 p.m. or later … Join the Artists’ Guild Gallery and its neighbors in the Island Shopping Center and around downtown for Music, Demos and Refreshments! • D.Coy Ducks • How Luckyami • Pizzano’s Pizza • Irene’s Resort Wear • Original Sand Dollar

• The Feast • Hurricane Hanks • Freckled Fin Irish Pub • The Doctor’s Oﬃce

Gallery phone: 941-778-6694 Facebook.com/artistsguildofami Instagram.com/artistguildannamariaisland Web: amiartistsguildgallery.com Email: artistsguildannamariaisland@gmail.com

Page 16 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Jan. 3, 2024 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

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Page 18 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Jan. 3, 2024 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

remembering FRoM Page 15

RELEASE DATE: 12/31/2023

New York Times Sunday Magazine Crossword

She mostly was known as a passionate restaurateur, always providing delicious meals and going out of her way to make people smile. William L. “Bill” Snow, 98, of Anna Maria, died May 15. He was a lover of airplanes and boats. Barbara Janice (Vaughn) Baker, 84, of Bradenton, died May 15. She was a partner in Anna Maria Island Resorts and served on the Manatee County Tourist Development Council. Dr. Robert A. Gryboski of Holmes Beach died May 17. He served in the U.S. Navy during the Vietnam War as chief medical officer aboard the USS Estes and then as medical officer at Oak Knoll Naval Hospital in Oakland, California. Miriam Victoria Trotter (nee Lopez DeArmas), 86, of Parkville, Maryland, died May 17, after suffering injuries in a crash in Holmes Beach. She was a proud civil servant of 47 years with Veterans Affairs. Stacey M. Boone, 57, of Bradenton, died May 19. She worked for A Paradise Realty in Holmes Beach. Jack Rodger Fiske, 89, of Anna Maria, died May 26. He spent his life at sea as a Merchant Marine. Sharon Ann Danna Lutz, 61, of Holmes Beach, died May 26. She spent most of her career in the legal field. Robert Joseph Schindler, 79, of Perico Island, died July 8. He published an action adventure/historical fiction “Montooth” book series under the pen name Robert Jay. Pamela “Pam” June DiUlio, 75, of Bradenton, died July 12. She was owner/operator of Snips Hair Design in Anna Maria for more than 20 years. Francine N. Slack, 86, formerly of Anna Maria Island, died July 19. She was an enthusiastic member of the Democratic Women’s Club, Island and West Manatee Democratic Club and the League of Women voters. Wanda Lavonia Fulford, 90, of Cortez, died July 23. She was a proud native of the Cortez community and of her commercial fishing heritage. John Mark Watkins, 64, of Bradenton Beach, died July 23. He spent much of his professional life in construction. Walter E. “Turk” Surko Jr., 87, of Holmes Beach, died July 27. He invented devices for the lock and door industry with 20 patents. Kim Bobo, 65, of Holmes Beach, died July 28. She helped generations of island kids with their speech skills as the speech pathologist at AME. Luciana DiClemente, 89, of Holmes Beach, died July 30. She was a highly accomplished classic painter, sculptor, knitter, passionate gardener and wonderful cook. James F. Hamilton, 92, of Bradenton and formerly of Holmes Beach, died July 31. He was active in the

cherished friend and devoted caretaker to many who crossed her path. Sylvia Louise Marie Manion, 89, a longtime winter resident of Anna Maria, died Nov. 3. She was a mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, community organizer, social planner and volunteer-clown for sick kids. Mary Elizabeth O’Connell Rose Robinson, 79, formerly of Holmes Beach, died Nov. 11. She made children’s toys and was an accomplished landscape artist and sculptor. Joshua Paul “Ike” Eisenhauer, 42, of Anna Maria, died Nov. 14. He received many medals and ribbons for his military service. Dave “Watchdog” Miner, 77, of Bradenton, died Former Manatee County sheriff’s homicide investigator John Kenney, left, “Dateline nBC” producer Bob Nov. 17. He served eight years on the School District gilmartin, center, and “Dateline” correspondent Keith of Manatee Board and was a leader in establishing Morrison, right, visit following interviews for a “Date- Manatee’s first Child Abuse Prevention Program and line” episode about the murder of sabine Musil-Bue- creating METV. Connor Patrick Johnson, 22, of Gillett, Wisconsin, hler in 2008 Islander File Photo: Bonner Joy and formerly of Anna Maria, died Nov. 25. He was a Key Royale Club and enjoyed investing and trading devoted father to his daughter, Chloe. in the stock market. Adrienne A. Fischer, 99, formerly of Holmes Jeff W. George, 58, of Anna Maria, died Aug. 8. Beach, died Nov. 26, She enjoyed golf and picnicked He loved to spend time sailing on his boat with family at the beach with friends, new and old, from Coquina and friends. Beach to Bean Point. Jay B. Myers, 66, of Holmes Beach, died Aug. 12. Linda Louise Massimo, 71, of Bradenton, died He wrote three books about his experiences in life and Dec. 5. Her career path led her to condominium manbusiness: “Keep Swinging,” “Hitting the Curveballs” agement, including at Mount Vernon in Cortez. and “Rounding Third and Heading for Home.” Eugene “Gene” Edwards Aubry, 87, of Palmetto Jeffrey Evan Murray, 71, of Anna Maria, died Sept. and formerly of Anna Maria, died Dec. 9. He was an 8. He built a significant number of custom homes and acclaimed architect, artist and musician and served in the city pier during his career. Anna Maria government, including as commissioner. Kenneth “Kenny” Butler, 66, of Bradenton and John Kenney, 69, died Dec. 9. His professional formerly of Anna Maria Island, died Sept. 19. He was journey led him to serve the Manatee County Sheriff’s nominated as a Golf magazine Top 100 Teacher. Office, where he pursued justice for more than three Barbara Carol (Wolfe) Harrold, 77, a winter resi- decades and reached the rank of sergeant and worked dent of Anna Maria Island, died Sept. 27. Her forte as a homicide detective. was interior design. Cynthia Ann Richmond, 70, of Bradenton and forGino DiClemente, 91, of Michigan, died Oct. 14. merly of Anna Maria, died Dec. 14. She volunteered He “discovered” AMI in 1981, became a snowbird and for Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird then was a 12-year resident. Monitoring and joined the Anna Maria Island Garden Jeanne Fay (Frankenfield) Shirk, 86, of Bradenton Club. and formerly of Anna Maria, died Oct. 16. She was a James “Jim” Patrick Kronus III, 82, of Bradenton huge fan of the Tampa Bay Rays, the New York Giants died Dec. 18. He served 25 years as principal at Anna and was a regular participant in The Islander football Maria Elementary, retiring in January 1999. pool. Martha Sue Wright, 70, of Cortez, died Oct. 20. She was the first female member of the Crewe of HerAt your service nando DeSoto and served as president. Obituaries are offered as a free community service Christina Maria Horvat, 89, of Anna Maria, died Oct. 29. She was proud of her Paauw family heritage to residents and families of residents, both past and and often shared stories of growing up in Hoorn, Hol- present, as well as to people with ties to the island. Please, submit notices to news@islander.org. land, during World War II. Paid obituaries can be discussed with ad consultant Jacqueline Danzer Pepka, 75, of Bradenton and formerly of Anna Maria, died Oct. 30. She became a Toni Lyon at 941-778-7978. No. 1224

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52 Declaration upon 102 ‘‘Allow me to 10 ‘‘____ girl!’’ arrival demonstrate?’’ 11 ‘‘Succession’’ TV 1 Delights 55 Mormon Church inits. 106 Be an ambassador family 5 Seesaw-powered for, 56 Sensational 12 Left jobs on bad vehicle on railroad in brief reading material terms, say tracks 107 ‘‘It all makes sense 13 Remote button 12 They may be wireless 60 ____-repeated now’’ 61 Longstanding 14 Home of the Rosa 16 Mass approvals 110 Like some economies rivalries Parks Museum 18 Bay Area start-up and moisturizers 62 Stir up 15 Siren, for one mecca 112 Left-wing protest 64 Expansive 17 Space heater? 19 Powered (by) group 65 Recreational ____ 18 Alternative to a cab 21 Where Lords Byron 114 Past disagreements and Tennyson 66 1937 Steinbeck that are no longer of 19 ‘‘Sounds reasonable’’ novella studied 20 Abominate concern . . . or each 23 Site of a claw machine 70 Pedicure target block of shaded 22 Go-aheads squares in this 71 Count on one hand? 24 Private meeting 26 ‘‘Hi there, friend’’ puzzle? 73 Airer of the morning 25 Add, as cilantro 30 Practices diplomacy 118 Don’t give up on show ‘‘Get Up’’ to guacamole 31 How Reubens are 74 Do the bare minimum 119 How ancient 27 ‘‘____ of course!’’ made mariners relied on 28 Alternative to Google 75 Olive in old comics 32 O.R. V.I.P.s the stars 76 ‘‘You!?’’ whimsically 29 Failed web venture, 120 Actress Witherspoon 35 Suffer in slang 77 Former M.L.B. left36 Put together 121 Sport handed pitchers 33 Previously, in poetry 37 Fad figurine with Jackson and Leiter 122 Apt word spelled 34 Biggest club in colorful unkempt from this puzzle’s 79 Like the moon in a Vegas? hair ‘‘covered’’ letters, solar eclipse 35 Flabbergast 39 What takes a toll? top to bottom 81 Malicious Mr. of 36 Real dump 40 Chooses sidewalk 123 Office monitor, in fiction 38 Features of Russian over subway, say brief 82 A regular in Italian Orthodox churches 41 Long story short? clubs? 40 Trekker to Mecca DOWN 42 Au ____ (menu 85 2002 hit song for No 43 Org. that employed phrase) Doubt 1 Son of Isaac W.W. II-era 45 Dum-dum 87 Cry for a spell? 2 Citizen neighboring Donald Duck as a 3-Down 46 Life partner 90 Angsty and brooding spokesperson 3 Nation across the 47 It’s a lot for a lord 44 Murals or graffiti, e.g. 91 Significant piece Bab el-Mandeb to manage 46 How one might sing 92 In the heart of, Strait 48 ‘‘I mean . . . uh . . . poetically an R.&B. ballad from Djibouti it’s just . . . ’’ 93 Due ÷ due 50 It might make your 4 Make out, in London 49 Don Juan 94 Fast-food chain with a hair stand on end 5 Must 53 Adler who outwitted sunrise in its logo 51 Whales swim in them 6 Drink from the tap? Sherlock Holmes 98 Call in a ring, for 7 Negative connector 54 Worn ____ frazzle short Online subscriptions: Today’s 8 They often need new 57 ‘‘Go ahead and 99 Dweller in a tree puzzle and more Answers: suits for work, for decide’’ hollow than 4,000 past puzzles, short nytimes.com/crosswords page 28 58 Co-star of ‘‘Airplane!’’ 101 Obnoxiously fratty ($39.95 a year). 9 Move up and ‘‘Hot Shots!’’ sort AC R O S S

59 Left quickly, with ‘‘out’’ 61 ‘‘The Crown’’ actress Claire 63 How some Cajuns converse 64 Crumb lugger 67 Required E.M.T. skill 68 Much of it is junk 69 ‘‘Cómo ____ usted?’’ 72 Mastodons’ defenses 77 Taking after

78 Lapis ____, blue 89 Rescue dog, e.g. gem pulverized for 90 School-email ender paint during the 95 Some low-risk Renaissance government issues, 80 ‘‘Arabian Nights’’ informally prince 96 Take for ____ 81 1950s school dance (bamboozle) 83 Over the line, so to 97 Natalie with 12 Top speak 40 hits 84 Texter’s ‘‘To me . . . ’’ 100 ‘‘Are you serious?!’’ 86 Sludge 87 Operator of the Texas 101 Unlink from a social media post, say Eagle and Southwest Chief 102 California’s San ____ 88 Perfectly refurbished County

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flashback FRoM Page 8

August Privateers install all-female board: The Anna Maria Island Privateers installed the nonprofit’s newly elected 2023-24 board — all female — during a celebratory meeting at the Bradenton Moose Lodge No. 1223, 310 44th Ave. E., Bradenton. Bicyclist killed on AMI bridge: A 33-year-old man from Lancaster, New York, died Aug. 9 after he was struck while biking on the Anna Maria Island Bridge on Manatee Avenue by a 23-year-old Bradenton resident who was driving an SUV. Commissioner wants to trade parking garage for pier: Holmes Beach Commissioner Dan Diggins wanted to see the Manatee County Board of Commissioners switch their proposal for a parking garage at the Manatee Public Beach to a pier at the Manatee Public Beach. County OKs $1.3M trail funding: The Manatee County Board of Commissioners approved $1,305,432.93 to remodel a multiuse trail at Coquina Beach in Bradenton Beach. Dog attacks, kills dog in BB bar: Bradenton Beach police cited a Holmes Beach man for an ordinance violation after his English mastiff killed another dog and injured the dog’s owner. County pushes forward on parking garage: County commissioners reached consensus for staff to move forward with design work for four parking garages, including a three-story structure to replace the current parking lot at Manatee Public Beach, 4000 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. Wildfire burns 30 acres at Egmont Key: The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service temporarily closed access to Egmont Key, where a wildfire burned 30-35 acres. School’s in session: Anna Maria Elementary staff and students entered the first weeks of the new school year with gusto. “We had a great turnout for back-toschool night,” principal Mike Masiello said. State reps email consolidation threat to cities:

Flashback ’23

a loggerhead tagged in July 2023 on aMI and named for suzi Fox heads to the gulf for the Tour de Turtles educational effort. Islander File Photo: Jacob Merrifield

State Sen. Jim Boyd, R-Bradenton, and Rep. Will Robinson Jr., R-Bradenton, emailed a letter to the island mayors threatening to call up a Florida Office of Program Policy Analysis and Government Accountability study into “combining the three municipalities.” 2 unopposed for 3 Anna Maria commission seats: This election season would be the sixth consecutive year without a contest in the city of Anna Maria, where only two incumbents, Jonathan Crane and Charlie Salem, qualified for reelection. County orders mandatory evacuation ahead of Idalia: Manatee County declared a state of emergency Aug. 28 and public safety officials announced plans for evacuations, beginning with a mandatory level A evacuation — including all of Anna Maria Island. Downed power line ignites duplex: Hurricane Idalia resulted in more than water and wind damage to one Holmes Beach property. A duplex at 210 71st St. suffered extensive fire damage.

Morton, Terry Schaefer and Carol Soustek — qualified for reelection without opposition and were returned to office. Bradenton Beach mayor, commissioners retake seats: Mayor John Chappie and Commissioners Jan Vosburgh and Jacob Spooner submitted qualifying paperwork to run for reelection. But there was no voting at the polls as no one else qualified. Locals cite bay poaching epidemic: The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission issued 20 separate citations for poaching in Sarasota Bay since Jan. 1. The citations were issued to 10 individuals. Center unveils $1.8 million budget: The Center of Anna Maria Island’s spending plan was revealed almost two months after fiscal 2023-24 began. The center projected spending $1,819,119.84 for the year. Nichols guilty of 2019 hit-and-run: A jury found David Nichols guilty of two felonies in a 2019 hit-andrun that left a Cortez man critically injured. Island developer declares ownership of Pines September Park: Louis Najmy of the Najmy Thompson firm 3 Holmes Beach incumbents unopposed for released a statement confirming island developer reelection: Three incumbents — Commissioners Pat Please, see flashback, neXT Page

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flashback from page 20

Actor Laura Morales greets theatergoers in September 2023 at the close of “Farce of Nature,” the first show in Island Players’ 75th year. Islander File Photo

Shawn Kaleta purchased the mobile home park at 103 Church Ave., Bradenton Beach. Oil spill at county port under investigation: The U.S. Coast Guard continued to investigate an oil spill at SeaPort Manatee on Tampa Bay. County asks feds for nourishment: County commissioners authorized asking the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers for federal aid to rehab Anna Maria Island’s coastline in the wake of Hurricane Idalia. Island mayors question causeway resiliency: Island mayors were raising questions about resiliency on the Palma Sola Causeway, which was closed to traffic due to flooding associated with Hurricane Idalia. Anna Maria, county reach ferry agreement: City commissioners unanimously voted to approve an interlocal agreement and improvement plan to allow the county’s ferry to dock at the city pier and use it as a passenger station. Coquina trail pine trees getting axed: Manatee County began remodeling the multiuse path at Coquina and Cortez beaches by removing dozens of Australian pine trees. 2 challengers qualify for county commission seat: Democrat Diana Shoemaker and Republican Talha “Tal” Siddique qualified with the Manatee County Supervisor of Elections office to challenge Manatee County Commission Chair Kevin Van Osten- for a 2019 hit-and-run in Cortez. bridge for the District 3 seat. County OKs $325K for Bridge Street boardwalk: The Manatee County Board of County ComOctober missioners approved a motion funding a boardwalk BB commission addresses commissioner project near the Historic Bridge Street Pier with tourist absences: Bradenton Beach was taking action on the development tax funding. absences of one member of the city commission, MariAnna Maria sets process to fill commission lyn Maro, who had not been at a city meeting since the vacancies: City commissioners approved a timeline start of 2023. for appointing successors to Commissioners Robert Northern wildfires cause poor air quality: Man- Kingan and Deanie Sebring in 2024. atee County issued a health advisory, warning that eleAnna Maria buys city hall annex: City commisvated particulate matter — PM2.5 — levels fell within sioners voted to approve a $1 million Florida Realtors/ the “unhealthy for sensitive groups” category based on Florida Bar contract to purchase the previously leased U.S. Environmental Protection Agency standards. annex property at 307 Pine Ave. Crabbers prep for stone crab season: Crabbers were hustling to bait, set and pull the first traps of the November stone crab season, which opened Oct. 15. State initiates government study: A state study Holmes Beach orders wind sculpture: City engi- that could steer the fate of Anna Maria Island’s govneer Sage Kamiya, chair of the Holmes Beach Parks ernance was underway. and Beautification Committee, said the city followed Public speaks out at BB resort hearing: The through and purchased an $8,145 wind sculpture in crowd at a hearing on a future development on Brapartnership with the local garden club. denton Beach’s Bridge Street overflowed city chamJudge gives man 30 years for hit-and-run: bers into the parking lot. The city planning and zoning Twelfth Circuit Judge Frederick P. Mercurio sentenced board convened the hearing on a rezone of 1.61 acres David Lynn Nichols of Bradenton to 30 years in prison for a 106-room resort. 2022-23 tourist tax tops $30 million: The Manatee County Tax Collector’s Office reported collecting $30,838,907 in tourist development taxes in 2022-23

Flashback ’23

compared with $28,605,229 for 2021-22. Cortez celebrates completion of FISH Preserve restoration: After 23 years of grassroots efforts and environmental restoration that began in 2000, FISH and Sarasota Bay Estuary Program hosted a celebration commemorating the completion of restorative efforts of the 95-acre preserve. Holmes Beach adopts code, Seaside Gardens changes: Holmes Beach commissioners unanimously voted on changes that allow the reconstruction of existing nonconforming townhomes within the city’s R-4 zoning district, which includes Seaside Gardens. Firefighter arrested on child porn charges: Manatee County sheriff’s deputies arrested West Manatee Fire Rescue firefighter Benjamin Dillon, 54, of Sarasota, on a third-degree felony charge for allegedly possessing child pornography. Anna Maria seeks volunteers charter review: Mayor Dan Murphy announced the city was seeking three to five residents to volunteer for a committee to comb through the charter. Ferry makes trial run: Manatee County’s two mainland-to-AMI ferries shuttled their first passengers in a Nov. 20 preview cruise. The trips were for invited guests, local officials and media members. Anna Maria to explore prototype for Pine Avenue: Mayor Dan Murphy said, pending approval from the Florida Department of Transportation, that he planned to recommend the city commission move forward with improvements on Pine Avenue from Gulf Drive to North Shore Drive. December By the numbers: 2023 nesting season: Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring released its final numbers for the May-October 2023 sea turtle nesting season, reporting 404 sea turtle nests marked. ‘Above-normal’ hurricane season ends: Twenty named storms churned in the Atlantic basin during the 2023 hurricane season. Forecasters had predicted an above-normal season. Ferry launch delayed to 2024: The Gulf Islands Ferry was hung up at the dock. The Islander and the public learned the launch of the service was delayed Dec. 7 in a community post on Facebook. October tourist tax dips: October’s tourist tax dollars — the first collections reported for the 2023-24 fiscal year — registered a 17% decrease compared to the prior year. County chair subject of state ethics investigation: Manatee County Commissioner Kevin Van Ostenbridge, R-District 3, was the subject of a Florida Commission on Ethics investigation after an ethics

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Streetlife

Island police reports

Anna Maria No new reports. The Manatee County Sheriff’s Ofﬁce polices Anna Maria. Bradenton Beach Dec. 19, 100 Bridge St., BridgeWalk motel, trespassing. A Bradenton Beach police officer responded to a report of a man previously trespassed from the property. The man was arrested and transported to the Manatee County Jail in Palmetto. Dec. 20, 2500 block of Gulf Drive North, reckless driving. A motorist who drove off the roadway and hit a fire hydrant was arrested for operating a motor vehicle without a license and failure to register a motor vehicle. The subject also was wanted on a warrant from Sarasota County for fleeing to elude. He was transported to the Manatee County jail. The BBPD polices Bradenton Beach. Cortez No new reports. The MCSO polices Cortez. Holmes Beach Dec. 20, 300 block of 57th Street, domestic disturbance/suspicious circumstance. A Holmes Beach police officer responded to reports of a domestic disturbance. The complainant said he got into a verbal argument with his girlfriend and she left. The officer flashback FRoM Page 21

complaint filed against the commissioner was found to contain “sufficient” allegations of potential ethics violations. BB green lights Bridge Street resort: City commissioners approved a planned development ordinance that paves the way for a 106-room resort likely to transform Bridge Street. Contractor violates AM stop work order: A Bradenton-based construction company allegedly clear-cut mangroves without a permit at an Anna Maria property, according to the city. AME excels with A grade: The Florida Department of Education released school grades for the 2022-23 academic year, with Anna Maria Island Elementary School securing an A for the second consecutive year. Anna Maria deputy named Deputy of the Year: Manatee County Sheriff’s Deputy Jared Leggett received the MCSO’s 2023 Deputy of the Year award from Sheriff Rick Wells.

could not contact the woman to confirm the man’s claim and the man left. The woman called the police later and said she wanted a protection order against the man. The officer advised her to visit the Manatee County courthouse for an order and to contact the Holmes Beach Police Department to supervise when the man returned for his possessions. Dec. 21, 8000 block of Marina Isles Lane, missing item. A woman reported a $16,000 gold-and-diamond tennis bracelet missing. Dec. 21, Anna Maria Elementary, 4700 Gulf Drive, suspicious circumstance. An AME receptionist forwarded to the HBPD an email from a parent regarding a man who allegedly made comments about school shootings at a restaurant while he was working. An officer filed a report. Dec. 23, Manatee Public Beach, 4000 Gulf Drive, Baker Act. An officer responded to reports of a belligerent man who had locked himself in a public bathroom. The officer encountered the man at a vehicle and attempted to issue a trespass warning. The man told the officer to shoot him. The officer placed him in protective custody under the Baker Act and transported him to Centerstone Behavioral Hospital in Bradenton. Dec. 24, Anchor Inn, 3007 Gulf Drive, failure to leave upon order. Two officers responded to a call for assistance at and spoke with a manager, who wanted a man trespassed. The intoxicated man hit other patrons with a glass. The officers advised the man he was trespassed. The man left after yelling at the officers but returned. So he was arrested and taken to the Manatee County jail. Dec. 24, 500 block of 70th Street, possible blackmail. A woman reported concerns that someone was trying to blackmail her son by threatening to post altered pictures if the son did not pay $300. An officer found a user profile associated with a common Snapchat phishing scam, provided a case card to the mother and asked her to provide images of the message thread. Dec. 24, 3900 block of Gulf Drive, Baker Act. An officer responded to reports of a man threatening to drown himself in the Gulf of Mexico. The officer called for Manatee County Emergency Medical Services and, while they were evaluating the man, he made statements about shooting himself. The officer completed Baker Act paperwork and transferred custody to EMS, which transported the man to HCA Florida Blake Hospital in Bradenton. Dec. 26, Grassy Point Preserve, 3201 Ave. C, Baker Act. Two officers found a woman sitting in her vehicle

Flashback ’23 Holmes Beach resident Deborah Trotter testifies aug. 9, 2023, alongside HBPD officer alexander Hurt about the loss suffered May 12, 2023, when she and her mother were struck by motorist Michael Ritchie. Trotter’s mother died as a result of the crash. Islander File Photo: Ryan Paice

when they arrived to close the public park and told her she needed to leave. When the officers returned from walking the park trails, they found her vehicle empty with open packages of cold medicine on the passenger floorboard. The officers searched the park and found the woman swallowing pills. They asked how many pills she had taken but she did not respond, so EMS was called. The officer placed the woman in protective custody under the Baker Act and EMS transported her to HCA Florida Blake Hospital in Bradenton. HBPD polices Holmes Beach. Streetlife is based on incident reports and narratives from the BBPD, HBPD and MCSO.

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place with a 5-over-par 37. improving overall coordination and strength. Terry Westby carded a 1-over-par 33 to take first Sessions run Jan. 1-22, Jan. 29-Feb. 19, and Feb. place in Flight B. Jan Turner took second place with 26-March 18. a 3-over-par 35, a stroke ahead of Jana Samuels, who The schedule is as follows: By Kevin P. Cassidy finished in third place. • Grades K-5: Tuesdays, 5-5:45 p.m. Islander Reporter The last event of the week was a Dec. 28 team • Grades 2-5: Wednesdays, 5-5:45 p.m. Horseshoe action Dec. 27 at the Anna Maria City • Grades K-5: Thursdays, 5-5:45 p.m. Hall pits saw two teams advance from pool play with scramble. The team of Deb and Dave Richardson and Tom Solosky combined on a 2-under-par 30 to win the Next up, K-5 kids can join Youth Hip-Hop classes 3-0 records. Thursdays 5:30-6:30 p.m. Grade 6 and up steps in The team of Bob Lee and Herb day’s proceedings. 6:30-7:30 p.m. The hip-hop movement class includes Schutt were trailing 19-17 in the a warmup, stretching, fundamentals and cool down. finals when Lee stepped up to throw. Kids program offerings for the New Year Some programs to keep kids busy for the new year The first session will conclude with a recital for He proceeded to throw a game-winfriends and family to show off what the kids learned. ning double-ringer to give his team are lining up at the Center of Anna Maria Island. Dana Sky is joining the center’s after-school proKids also can work off some energy — run, jump a 23-19 victory over Tom Farrington Cassidy gram for a four-week yoga class to promote balance, and have fun — in beginner tumbling at the center and Bob Palmer. with a focus on how to do cartwheels, somersaults and Action Dec. 30 saw three teams advance to the focus, relaxation and fun. The sessions take place Mondays 4-5 p.m. There more. knockout round with Billy Silver drawing the lucky Sessions run from Jan. 11 to Feb. 29, and March bye into the finals. Farrington advanced to the finals are three sessions, starting with Session 1, Jan. 22 to with a 21-8 victory over Bob Baker and Tom Skoloda, Feb. 12, Session 2 Feb. 26-March 18 and Session 3 7 to May 16. Advanced tumbling also is offered on the same setting up a showdown of walkers. Farrington cruised April 8-April 29. Yoga mats are provided. Registration is required schedule. Advanced tumblers must be able to perform to the winner’s circle with a 22-4 victory over Silver. a back-bend kick-over. There was no organized play at the Key Royale by Wednesday prior to the start of the session. Learning tennis also is an option for kids at the Beginning tumbling runs from 4-4:30 p.m., while Club golf course in Holmes Beach on Christmas Day, but the women took the course Dec. 26 for a nine-hole center, who sign up for Cody Wright’s Future Ace’s advanced tumbling runs 4:30-5:15 p.m. Tennis for students in grades K-5. For more information and fees, call 941-778-1908 individual-low-net match in two flights. Participants will work on athletic agility and tennis or email youthprograms@centerami.org. Helen Pollock fired a 1-over-par 33 to grab first The community center is at 407 Magnolia Ave., place in Flight A by three strokes over second-place technique in stations, working on stroke production, finisher Ceal Barry. Margrit Layh was alone in third cultivating hand-eye coordination, footwork and Anna Maria.

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Mullet season disappoints in Cortez Commercial fishers in Cortez are grappling with a slow mullet season. “We haven’t been catching very many at all,” Capt. Nate Meschelle said Dec. 27. “And there’s not a whole lot of people chasing them.” Meschelle, a veteran fisher in Cortez, cited multiple factors, including reduced stocks attributed to red tide in prior years and market saturation. Meschelle said fisheries in South America, where the mullet run in the summer, were plentiful in 2023, resulting in lower prices in the United States. “They did really well. So the market is saturated,” Meschelle said. “Unfortunately, for us, we are not looking at good prices.” Meschelle said the average price was as high as $1.25 per fish in the past. This season, he estimated mullet is being purchased at 75 cents per fish. Also, red tides, which produce toxins that kill fish, have disrupted the natural life cycle of mullet. “It can take between three to five years for a mullet to mature to spawning age,” Meschelle said. “So the

Send your fishing, sports news and photos to news@islander.org.

effects of red tides are not just felt in the present season but can have a lasting impact on future yields. I think that’s what we are seeing this year.” However, Meschelle said the season is not over. “Now we have fish coming up from down south and they are going to be ready on this next run,” he said. Mullet from southern fisheries can travel the length of the Intracoastal Waterway from Tampa Bay to join large schools in the Gulf of Mexico to spawn. “There’s something special and unique about the mouth of the Tampa Bay area,” Meschelle said. “When the fish are ready to go, they leave out of here.” He estimated the 2023-24 season could peak in mid-January. Karen Bell, owner of A.P. Bell Fish Co., 600 124th St. Court W., Cortez, had a similar view of the season during a Dec. 8 interview with The Islander. “There’s not a lot of demand this year for the roe because there was such a huge production. So the price is somewhat down,” she said. She said mullet were scarce in local waters. “We’ve had years when it runs until February. It depends on the weather. Usually, the main season is December and maybe the first couple weeks of January. But it all depends on what Mother Nature is doing,” Bell said.

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A net full of mullet is brought boatside Dec. 13, 2023. Cortez fishers say so far this season mullet is in short supply. Islander Courtesy Photo

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Jan. 3, 2024 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 25 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Good catches for persistent anglers despite cold conditions By Capt. Danny stasny Islander Reporter

Anglers are beating the cold and wind to come up with good catches around Anna Maria Island. With the wintertime bite in full swing, sheepshead, black drum, redfish and pompano are being caught along the beaches and in the bays. Live shrimp as bait is useful, as the species mentioned will dial in on the delectable little crustaceans. stasny Sometimes angling can be as simple as putting a live shrimp on a weighted rig and other times, tipping a jig with a small piece of shrimp can be the ticket to success. Either way, you want shrimp if you plan to fish around Anna Maria Island in January. So, whether fishing from a pier, the beach or on a boat, it’s time to frequent your favorite bait shop for live shrimp. Then, don’t be surprised to catch a variety of species, as fish that inhabit our waters will gladly eat shrimp during the cool-water months. All species, large and small, usually will take interest in the small baits as they are easily stalked and eaten without having to exert energy on a high-speed chase. On another note, as we ring in the new year, remember there are new regulations on snook in state and federal waters. The new regulations establish nine management regions and closed seasons as well as bag and slot limits for each region. The Tampa Bay-Sarasota Bay region is closed Dec. 1 to the end of February and May 1-Aug. 31, with a bag limit of one snook. The slot limit for our region is 28-33 inches. On my Just Reel charters, I am having good results when using live shrimp as bait. Catches of redfish and black drum are frequent during morning charters. Also, sheepshead are making a decent showing and are being caught regularly, too. Tipping jigs with small pieces of shrimp is resulting in pompano, jack crevalle and ladyfish. Lastly, I am having snook take shrimp from my clients — despite cold water temps. Capt. Johnny Mattay is enjoying fishing nearshore structure for a variety of species. Bottom fishing around ledges, reefs and wrecks is leading to catches of hogfish, Key West grunts and different snappers, including mangroves and lane.

Jayden Hughes reports fishing for sharks at aMI’s Bean Point can be a thriller. He caught and released this tiger shark — estimated to be 10-11 feet long and 700-800 pounds — around 9:30 p.m. at Bean Point. The shark ate a stingray and the fight lasted about 45 minutes. Hughes said he and friends were fishing for three hours before anyone got a bite. He caught the tiger shark on a 30-wide avet reel with 400-pound wire and a 14/0 circle hook. They were deploying baits a few hundred yards off the beach, where they also caught three sandbar sharks in the 6-7 foot range. With Hughes were Josh Boland, Daniel Mcreedy, Joseph Dolan and evan abbot. “He was released and swam off strong!,” Hughes said in a Dec. 28 email to The Islander.

Gag grouper are in the same areas. They can be relentless on the medium spinning gear typically used to catch the other species mentioned. Fortunately, Mattay carries heavy gear suited for the tackle-busters. Moving inshore, pompano are the highlight and are being caught on jigs tipped with shrimp. While targeting the pompano, some sheepshead are in the mix for Mattay’s anglers. Capt. David White is working inshore along the beaches of Anna Maria Island, resulting in a variety of species for his clients. Using live shrimp as bait, redfish, black, drum and sheepshead are finding their way to the hook. Pompano also are finding the shrimp hard to resist — and they’re irresistible for table fare. Snook ﬁshing changes begin Fishing nearshore structure with shrimp is leading New regulations for snook in state and adjacent to some good action. Porgies, Key West grunts and mangrove snapper are being caught frequently. And federal waters went into effect Jan. 1. The regulation changes nine established snook management regions and established closed seasons, Make one stop to shop for the Dock! as well as bag and slot limits for each region. Here are the details for the “Panhandle, Big Bend, Sales • Service • Supplies & More Tampa Bay, Sarasota Bay” region: • Jet Ski Lifts & Boat Lifts • Dock Accessories Closed season: Dec. 1 to the end of February, May • Piling Cones • Remote Controls 1-Aug. 31. • Aluminum Ladders • Stainless Motors • Cables and Switches Bag limit: one fish. Open Mon-Fri 8-4, Slot limit: 28–33 inches. Saturday by Appointment For more information, go online to myfwc.com/ 12044 Cortez Rd. W, (941) 792-7657 marine.

some lucky anglers are hooking into hogfish. Jim Malfese at the Rod & Reel Pier reports redfish are the highlight at the northernmost pier. Pier fishers using shrimp as bait are casting under the pier deck to get a bite. Most of the reds caught are exceeding the maximum size limit of 27 inches and must be released, but what a tough problem to have. Those hoping to take home a fish dinner are settling with catches of sheepshead and black drum — and both can be tasty on the plate. For anglers hoping to catch a trophy, they can take notes from Jayden Hughes, who recently showed off his skill at targeting sharks from shore, just a short distance from the pier at Bean Point. Tiger sharks – like the one pictured above — and others, are prolific in Tampa Bay and, if handled with care, can be caught and released without harm. Send high-resolution photos and ﬁshing reports to ﬁsh@islander.org.

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Page 26 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Jan. 3, 2024 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Community center nets 1st positive month of 2023-24 By Ryan Paice Islander Reporter

The Center of Anna Maria Island’s fiscal accounting for 2023-24, which began July 1, might be turning around after three bad months. The community center was $129,179.14 in the red through October after finishing the month with $35,576.11 in net income, according to the provided report. The net for October marks the nonprofit’s first positive month of the fiscal year, which began with losses

for the first three months of $55,092.85, $87,935.36 and $21,727.04. The major difference between October and the first three months of the fiscal year is a fundraising spike. The $102,917.95 in fundraising revenue for October more than doubles the next closest month, September, which the center finished with $46,410.98. Additionally, fundraising costs have smoothed out after reaching a peak of $49,563.96 in August, when the nonprofit collected only $19,166.21 in fundraising revenue. October’s spike in fundraising revenue also lacked associated costs. The community center spent $15,725.45 on fundraising for the month — the lowest number for the nonprofit this fiscal year. Despite the fundraising success, the center has still drawn a negative from its other operations. The nonprofit has posted impressive program revenue numbers, including $95,092.37 in July and $58,148.87 in October. Nevertheless, those numbers have been more than offset by program costs, general and administrative expenses. In July, when the center had its best success with program revenue, it also spent $70,790.20 and incurred

$65,470.91 in general and administrative expenses. That resulted in a $41,168.74 loss from operations for the month. In October, the center spent $34,708.58 in programming costs and $73,813.02 in general and administrative expenses, resulting in a $50,372.73 loss. In the meantime, the nonprofit was nearing its $100,000 annual fundraising campaign goal. The nonprofit had collected $93,767 as of Dec. 28, with just over two weeks to go, according to a post on social media. The annual fundraiser benefits the community center and is backed by three donors who agreed to match funds donated to the nonprofit during the campaign. Those matching donors include: • The Alexander Charitable Foundation; • Bob and Carol Carter; • Brian and Nancy Comer. The fundraiser launched in November and will run through Monday, Jan. 15. For more information about the campaign, visit centerami.org or contact director of development Jillian Ptak by calling 941-778-1908, ext. 201, or emailing development@centerami.org.

Let it snow Campers Violet sanger and lemon Blackburn make snow at the Center of anna Maria Island in anna Maria while attending winter camp, which annually takes place during the late December-early January winter break from school. Islander Courtesy Photo

Flashback ’23

Photographer Jonelle Forbes of sarasota saw posts on social media about an occurrence of bioluminescence — a natural phenomenon that accompanies an algae bloom — at anna Maria Island and decided to visit the beach at the south end of the island to give it “a shot.” Her photo was taken in Bradenton Beach sept. 12, 2023, looking across longboat Pass to the gulf of Mexico. Islander File Photo

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Jan. 3, 2024 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 27 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Bradenton Circle birders conduct Christmas count By Kathy Doddridge special to The Islander

By Lisa Neff

Looking to 2024

The Florida Legislature will convene in Tallahassee for the 2024 session in less than a week. Session opens Jan. 9 and concludes March 8. Environmental leaders in the state are preparing to push for policies that result in cleaner water, stronger species protections, sustainable energy solutions and conservation of sensineff tive lands. And groups such as 1000 Friends of Florida encourage robust citizen engagement in the legislative process. The organizational roles are important but our voices are vital. Some environmental priorities for session from the nonprofit 1000 Friends: • Provide at least $1 billion for Florida Forever, Rural & Family Lands, Florida Communities Trust and other programs to protect priority lands in the Florida Wildlife Corridor and other natural and agricultural areas. • Meet or exceed the next funding installment in the governor’s four-year, $3.5 billion commitment to Everglades restoration and water quality projects across the state. • Support legislation and funding for fiscally responsible land-use planning that enhances resilience, prioritizes home rule, empowers citizens, reduces emissions and promotes sustainable, equitable communities. • Strengthen water quality protections and enforcement and promote incentives for water conservation. • Require flood disclosure and other safeguards to discourage irresponsible development in coastal high hazard areas and floodplains to save lives, property and taxpayer dollars. • Create stronger protections from incompatible development, and ensure that new development occurs in areas with the infrastructure to support it. People can sign up for action alerts, as well as follow session updates from 1000 Friends at 1000fof. org/legis/2024-legislative-session/. Audubon Florida, the state organization affiliated with the National Audubon Society, also is prepping and rallying for session. The group stated concerns in late December: “We are tracking and analyzing a number of bills filed early

After months of drought, many were glad for the predicted heavy rain Dec. 16. However, that was the day of the Bradenton Circle’s Christmas Bird Count. Thankfully, the heavier rain didn’t start until mid-afternoon, which allowed 31 teams comprising 64 individual birders to survey their territories within the 15-mile Bradenton Circle for the National Audubon Society’s 123rd Christmas Bird Count. While the weather didn’t stop team members, it did impact the number of species counted — 149 versus 159 in 2022 — and the number of individual birds counted — 31,398 versus 44,345 in 2022. Regardless, several new species to the circle were identified, including an American flamingo. Yes, of the many American flamingos dispersed during Hurricane Idalia in late August 2023, one or two remain in Manatee County. Other highlights were the high numbers of wood ducks, red-breasted mergansers, black skimmers, American robins and brown-headed cowbirds. “What the Christmas bird count can show us is that there is a northward march of many of the more southern species,” says Geoff LeBaron, director of the Christmas Bird Count at Audubon. “In early years, they would have been just down south.” Researchers combine the bird census with climate data to develop predictive models for different climate change scenarios. The models could provide clues to where species might turn up in the future. “The Christmas Bird Count tells us how birds are

doing during this early winter period,” LeBaron says. “We can track where birds are and how they have changed their ranges during climate change over the last 60 to 70 years.” Through the 1800s, it was an American tradition to go out on Christmas morning and compete for the honor of who could shoot the most birds. Ornithologist Frank Chapman then came up with the idea of counting the birds instead of killing them, according to the Audubon Society. The Bradenton Circle thanks the staff of Manatee County Parks and Recreation for providing transportation at Robinson Preserve and all the volunteers who spent their Saturday in the rain counting birds. But that is what we do! Editor’s Note: Kathy Doddridge is the coordinator for the Bradenton Circle. For more about the Audubon Society and the Christmas Bird Count, go online to audubon.org. For more about the Manatee County Audubon Society, go online to manateeaudubon.org.

in the session that could negatively impact the protection of wetlands, the role of local government in environmental permitting, the ability of citizens and environmental groups to challenge inappropriate permitting decisions and the permissible design of stormwater systems.” Such bills include: • Senate Bill 664, which would require local governments to establish buffer zones associated with wetlands and waterbodies and pay landowners to acquire the buffer areas. • SB 738/HB 789, which would assign attorney fees to losing parties in challenges to permit decisions, place further criteria on retention pond design and require an expansive review of all coastal environmental permitting to come back to the Legislature. • SB 664, which would preempt local governments from programs regulating dredging and filling, “tying the hands of local communities who want to be more protective of wetlands than the minimum state standards.” • HB 267, SB 684, SB 812 and HB 791, which

would place restrictive time frames on local government decisions concerning building and development permits. To follow Audubon’s news and views, go online to fl.audubon.org. Florida Conservation Voters operates under the belief that “building healthy communities and protecting our natural world are inseparable and interdependent.” The group’s 2024 priorities address water, climate change, clean energy and land conservation, including: • Restoring the Great Florida Riverway, full funding and bonding authority for Florida Forever conservation programs. • Supporting worker heat protections, increasing carbon-capture potential, increasing resiliency planning, stronger drinking water standards, upgrading wastewater treatment, effective statewide stormwater regulations and increasing voter access to ballots. FCV’s priorities can be read in-depth at fcvoters. org/2022-legislative-priorities/.

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Page 28 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Jan. 3, 2024 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

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References available • 941-720-7519

REPORTER WANTED: Full- to part-time. Print media, newspaper experience required. Apply via email with letter of interest to news@islander.org. KIDS FOR HIRE

PRESSURE WASHING, PAVER sealing, driveway, roof, fence, pool area. Also, window cleaning. Licensed and insured. 941-5653931. BICYCLE REPAIRS: Just4Fun at 5358 Gulf Drive can do most any bicycle repair at a reasonable cost. Pick-up and delivery available. 941-896-7884. COMPANION/HOMEMAKER: Honest and reliable offering help with running errands, grocery shopping, house sitting, pet and plant care, light cooking/cleaning, transportation. References available and licensed. Call Sherri, 941-592-4969. API’S DRYWALL REPAIR: I look forward to servicing your drywall repair needs. Call 941524-8067 to schedule an appointment. AIRPORT RIDES: SARASOTA, St. Pete, Tampa. Call/text, Vita, 941-376-7555. CLEAN TECH MOBILE Detailing. At your location. Cars, boats, RVs. Call or text Billie for an appointment. 941-592-3482. PC OR TECH issues? Not sure where to start? With years of experience, I’ll come to you with reliable solutions. Contact Gavin at 928-587-1309. www.gse.codes. PAINTING: INTERIOR/EXTERIOR: Sarasota interior painting. Call or text Don, 941-9009398. We are the best high-end painting! Just ask our AMI clients! I’m the owner and the painter. Free estimates. Fully insured licensed business.

KIDS FOR HIRE ads are FREE for up to three weeks for Island youths under 16 looking for work. Ads must be placed in person at The Islander office, 315 58th St. Suite J, Holmes Beach.

U PLUS ME LLC: Provides quality coatings for pool decks, driveways, garage floors, patios. Don’t miss out on our pro polishing services, concrete, terrazzo, travertine. 727623-5050.

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY

BUSINESS-TO-BUSINESS JD’s Window Cleaning looking for storefront jobs in Holmes Beach. I make dirty windows sparkling clean. 941-920-3840.

Businesses for sale, startups … place ads at classifieds@islander.org. HEALTH CARE

ANSWERS TO Jan. 3 PUZZLE

CLEANING: VACATION, CONSTRUCTION, residential, commercial and windows. Licensed and insured. 941-756-4570.

SEASONAL: RETIRED RN with over 20 years’ experience can assist with your family members or yourself, can provide care and skilled needs. Please, contact me for further inquiries at 973-819-2824. The Islander offers the best results for your classified advertising dollar. We really work for you! Submit your ad no later than noon Monday on the website, islander.org. For Monday holidays, the deadline is Friday.

BEACH SERVICE air conditioning, heat, refrigeration. Commercial and residential service, repair and/or replacement. Serving Manatee County and the Island since 1987. For dependable, honest and personalized service, call Bill Eller, 941-720-7411. CAC184228. LOOKING FOR AN EARLY BIRD? You can read The Islander’s Wednesday classified ads on Tuesday at islander.org. And it’s FREE!

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

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

Jan. 3, 2024 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 29 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

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

RENTALS Continued

REAL ESTATE

ConnIe’s lanDsCaPIng InC. Residential and commercial. Full-service lawn maintenance, landscaping, cleanups, hauling and more! Insured. 941-778-5294.

seasonal RenTals FoR upcoming season: January, 2BR/1Ba modest duplex with washer and dryer in north Holmes Beach, one block to the beach, $2,400 plus tax and fees. 3BR/2Ba canalfront home on the north end of anna Maria, $6,000 plus tax and fees. January, February, March, 2BR/2Ba condo at sunbow Bay. nicely furnished with lovely water view, $4,200 plus tax and fees. Call green Real estate, 941778-0455. www.greenreal.com.

WInnIe MCHale, RealToR, 941-5046146. Rosebay International Realty Inc. You need an aggressive and experienced Realtor in today’s market! selling island homes, sarasota and Bradenton areas. Multi-milliondollar producer! “selling Homes - Making Dreams Come True.”

CollIns lanDsCaPe lIgHTIng: outdoor lighting, landscaping, irrigation services and maintenance. 941-279-9947. MJC24373@ gmail.com. HOME IMPROVEMENT Van-go PaInTIng residential/commercial, interior/exterior, pressure cleaning, wallpaper. Island references. Bill, 941-795-5100. www.vangopainting.net. gRIFFIn’s HoMe IMPRoVeMenTs Inc. Handyman, fine woodwork, countertops, cabinets and wood flooring. Insured and licensed. 941-722-8792. IslanD HanDYMan: I live here, work here, value your referral. Refinish, paint. Just ask. JayPros. licensed/insured. References. Call Jay, 941-962-2874. sCReenIng seRVICes: Replace your old or ripped window, door or porch screens. Many screen types available. Retired veteran here to serve our community! Free estimates, call lane, 941-705-5293. looKIng FoR anY home improvement? JRCC Home Improvement, handyman service can get the job done. Please, contact us at 413-246-2410. We would love to help. soUTHWesT HoMe IMPRoVeMenT: Michigan builder, quality work guaranteed. affordable, timely, within budget. Call Mike’s cell, 1-616-204-8822. BMF InTeRIoRs: HoMe repairs and more, no job too small. 786-318-8585. Call HYDRo Clean. Full-service pressure washing, sealing. Pavers, travertine and natural stone. Window washing too, up to three stories. Call Jacob, 941-920-2094. RENTALS anna MaRIa gUlF beachfront vacation rentals. one- two- and three-bedroom units, all beachfront. www.amiparadise.com. 941778-3143. PeRICo IslanD PaTIo home for rent. 3BR/2Ba, 30-day minimum. Privacy fence/ gate, two miles to aMI. January, 2024 available. now leasing May through December, 2024 Call or text, 859-771-6423. aVaIlaBle noW anD season: 1BR/1Ba, seven-night minimum. carlesvacationrentals. com. special rates are available. 941-8071405. aCRoss FRoM BaY: Two miles to anna Maria. 2BR/1Ba fully furnished. available January, February, March. all utilities. Washer/dryer. $4,500 month. Family owned. 941-773-1552. sIX-MonTH RenTal 2BR/2Ba, Mt. Vernon, 55 and over community. Views of sarasota Bay. Fully furnished, minutes from beaches and town. lots of amenities. Call or text, 941-730-5645. The Islander is often called “the best real estate agent on the island!” We sell properties fast! submit your ad on islander.org.

RaRe oPPoRTUnITY To rent all-inclusive executive office space in Holmes Beach. great frontage and advertisement visibility. great for realtors, contractors, accountants, lawyers, etc. electric and water included. Two offices available. suite 101, approximately 200 sf. $700/month $500 deposit. suite 104, approximately 400 sf. $750/month. $500 deposit. 5386 gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. Contact Bill at 941-746-8666. RenTal: HolMes BeaCH 2BR/2Ba bungalow (half duplex). Five-minute walk to beach. nice outdoor patio, no stairs, available December 2023 and January 2024. Contact 519-807-9426 or 403- 512-2350. aVaIlaBle FeBRUaRY 2024: 4BR/2Ba old Florida cottage in the heart of anna Maria city. Completely remodeled and tastefully decorated. last-minute cancellation. Walk to the many shops and restaurants in anna Maria, one block to beach. $6,000 plus taxes and fees. Call green Real estate, 941-7780455. www.greenreal.com.

WesT BRaDenTon ConDo: resort lifestyle, ground-floor 2BR//2Ba. garage. 6.5 miles, 14 minutes from gulf beaches. $264,900. Call or text, 941-7254374. longBoaT KeY MoBIle home lot. Corner lot across the street from park amenities. $125,000. 941-744-6808. snoWBIRDs! FoR sale: Vintage permanent 1BR/1Ba RV at sarasota Bay RV Park, 55-plus. $34,900. Current rate is $8,000 for five months = $1,600/month. Two miles from beaches straight down Cortez Road. Huge pool, pickleball courts, many park activities on sarasota Bay! Call 810-577-6964.

PLACE CLASSIFIED ADS ONLINE AT ISLANDER.ORG Landscape Design Lawn Care Cleanups Stone Paths Licensed and Insured

aCRoss FRoM BaY, Two miles to anna Maria. 2BR/1Ba fully furnished. available February and March. all utilities, washer/dryer. $3,900 month. Family owned. 941-7731552. WInTeR season RenTal: available January-May, located in Holmes Beach, two blocks to beach. 2BR/1.5Ba, elev a t e d t o w n h o u s e , s l e e p s f o u r, n o pets. $4,200/month plus tax and fees. Discount for more than one month. Call anna Maria Realty, 941-778-2259. Dina@annamariareal.com. ConDo RenTal: 2BR/2Ba in 55-plus community. available Jan. 1, 2024. Three-month minimum. $3,500 per month includes all utilities. Fully furnished, pool and clubhouse. Bradenton. 440-724-3126 for picture link. seasonal: aVaIlaBle MaRCH-December. 2BR/2Ba tastefully furnished, close to beach, tennis, pickleball and boat ramp. Holmes Beach. 941-778-2919.

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

Place classiﬁed ads online at islander.org

Rick Turner

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Page 30 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Jan. 3, 2024 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

isl

Mike sales entertains at sunset on the deck at Wicked Cantina on gulf Drive in Bradenton Beach. Islander Courtesy Photo

biz

By Robyn Murrell

Wicked expansion

Fans call it “wicked good.” And, building on its success, Wicked Cantina, known for tacos, burgers and seafood in Bradenton Beach and Sarasota, is set to open a third location in St. Petersburg. The restaurant is owned by Mike and Janice Dolan, who reminisced on how they got into the business. “We weren’t looking to open a restaurant when we moved here but we missed the Austin Tex-Mex food,” Janice Dolan said Dec. 27. “We were having breakfast at Maria’s Place one morning and Mike thought it would be a good spot for tacos. He asked the owner if he’d be interested in selling and a deal was made.” Janice Dolan said the success of the AMI location, 101 Seventh St. N., Bradenton Beach, starting in 2014 and a Sarasota spot starting in 2017, wouldn’t be possible without a staff of 100 workers. Now they’re planning to hire 50-60 people to work at a 3650 Tyrone Blvd. N., St. Pete. Like the Anna Maria Island and Sarasota locations, the St. Pete restaurant will include a patio. “It works with our food, vibe and daily live music,” Janice Dolan said. For more information on Wicked Cantina, contact them at their Bradenton Beach location at 941-2812990 or online at wickedcantina.com.

Mike Norman Realty INC www.mikenormanrealty.com 31o1 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach 800-367-1617 | 941-778-6696

LUXURY

VACATION HOMES

The flavors of Holmes Beach are growing. At least that is what brothers Tony Pizzano and Sam Marhi are planning at AMI Mediterranean Xpress by Pizzano’s in the Island Shopping Center, 5316 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Over their 25-year career in the business, the brothers have owned and operated one Mediterranean restaurant and 10 Pizzano’s Pizza & Grinderz locations in Florida, primarily in the Orlando area. About a year and a half ago, they opened Pizzano’s in the same shopping center at 5318 Marina Drive. “We’ve always talked about opening a Mediterranean restaurant with a buildable concept,” Pizzano said Dec. 27. So when a real estate office next to the pizza place relocated, the brothers jumped on the opportunity to take the space. They are making improvements, including adding an entry between the two restaurants. AMI Mediterranean Xpress’ will offer build-yourown gyro bowls, salads, pita wraps and shawarmas. “Everything is going to be right in front of you laid out where you can just point and pick — freshly made rice, the different meats and all the toppings and sauces you can drench it with,” Pizzano said. For more information, call 941-778-3663 or go to pizzanospizzaami.com.

BizCal By Robyn Murrell

OFFERING THE BEST SELECTION OF SALES & RENTALS ON ANNA MARIA ISLAND SINCE 1978

EXCLUSIVE

Mediterranean menu

People pass aMI Mediterranean Xpress, 5316 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, Dec. 27, 2023, as an employee loads items from the adjoining restaurant under the same ownership, Pizzano’s Pizza and grinderz. Islander Photo: Robyn Murrell

Moose makeover

The wait is over for loyal members of the lodge. The Anna Maria Island Moose Lodge 2188, 110 Gulf Drive S., Bradenton Beach, closed its doors Dec. 1 for renovations and reopened Dec. 12, according to a post on the lodge’s Facebook page. Alafia Coating completed the project, which involved new flooring in the dining hall and hallway. Byron Dalton Sr., the lodge administrator, said upgrades were needed, given their time in the space. He added that the wood delamination of the floors was nearly a code violation. Meanwhile, ticket sales for the Queen of Hearts game are underway, with the first drawing set for Jan. 10. But anyone not already a member will need to join to play and be admitted to the lodge. The Moose Lodge on Anna Maria Island was chartered in 1968. Significant renovation projects were done between 2014 and 2022, including installing a new kitchen and rooftop dining — thanks to funding from the Queen of Hearts promotion. For more information, contact the lodge at 941778-4110 or go to mooselodge2188.com.

Correction

A report on Black Bones Music and its January concert at Ginny’s and Jane E’s Cafe in the Dec. 27 THIS WEEK edition of The Islander contained an incorrect contact Tuesday, Jan. 9 number for the business. The correct number is 9418-9:30 a.m. — Anna Maria Island Chamber sunrise breakfast, 779-3272.

Breakfast at Victoria’s, 5315 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. Fee applies. Information: info@annamariaislandchamber.org. By Carol Bernard Wednesday, Jan. 10 11:30 a.m. — State of the Cities forum with Manatee Chamber of Commerce, IMG Academy Golf Club, 4350 El Conquistador 868 N. Shore Drive, Anna Maria, a 1,490 sq ft Pkwy., Bradenton. Fee applies. Information: 941-748-3411. 4BR/2BA pool home on a 5,502 sq ft lot built in 1948

PropertyWatch

Island real estate sales

Once Upon A Beach VACATION RENTALS - 941.584.5844

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

sold 11/30/2023 by Lindycraig LLC to Buky Family Business LLC for $1,550,000, list price $1,995,000. 600 Manatee Ave., #242, Holmes Beach, a 1,447 sq ft 2BR/2BA Westbay Cove condo built in 1977 sold 11/30/2023 by DeHann Family Trust to Berringan for $580,000, list price $637,000. Compiled by Island Real Estate staff. IRE can be reached at 941-778-6066, islandreal.com.

T hinking about what

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

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

@ONCEUPONABEACHAMI

ONCEUPONABEACHAMI.COM

3340 E. Bay Drive, HB Office 941 462 4016

Jan. 3, 2024 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 31 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

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Page 32 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Jan. 3, 2024 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................