The Islander Newspaper E-Edition: Wednesday, Nov. 17, 2021 by The Anna Maria Islander Newspaper

NOV. 17, 2021 Free

VOLUME 30, NO. 4

the Best News on anna maria island Since 1992

BB-dot mum on megabridge deal

astheworldterns. 6

Q&a 111721.

New HB city attorney appointed. 4

By Kane Kaiman islander reporter

Meetings. 4 i solemnly swear… 5

Opinions. 6

10-20 Years ago

Looking back. 7

BBPd promotion. 8 Lawsuit filed over water pollution. 8 cortez stilt-house remains on waterfront. 9

Happenings What’s up on ami? 10 Privateers celebrate 50 years at gala. 11

Save a date. 12 Pto fall fest falls short on cash. 13

Gathering. 14 GoodDeeds. 14 Obituaries. 14 get in the game. 16

StreetLife. 17 RoadWatch. 17

islander.org

Patriots on Pine Bradenton Beach resident and u.S. Navy veteran Bill Sanderson plays bagpipes Nov. 11 while leading the fourth assault amphibian Battalion honor guard from tampa down Pine avenue during the city of anna maria’s old Soldiers and Sailors veterans day Parade. for more on veterans day, turn to page 15. islander Photo: ryan Paice

county plans to update parks plan. 18

Silent auction? Despite multiple attempts, Bradenton Beach Mayor John Chappie, city attorney Ricinda Perry and the Florida Department of Transportation could not be reached for comments on the status of the city’s negotiations with the agency related to the Cortez Bridge replacement project by The Islander’s press time Nov. 15. In March, Bradenton Beach commissioners unanimously voted to join a lawsuit challenging the DOT’s decision to replace the 17-foot-clearance Cortez drawbridge with a 65-foot-clearance fixed-span bridge in 2026-27. The commission directed Perry to coordinate with outside counsel to join the suit and allocated up to $15,000 for its costs. In April, commissioners voted to reduce funding for the suit and directed Perry to begin informal negotiations with DOT attorneys for concessions, including undergrounding utilities within and near the footprint of a high bridge. Chappie and Commissioners Ralph Cole and Marilyn Maro indicated they would vote against joining the suit in favor of continued negotiations with the DOT at an Aug. 5 meeting and the Aug. 13 deadline to join the suit passed without the city acting. Mark Porter, a Bradenton Beach public works consultant who has been working on the city’s high bridge undergrounding proposals, said Nov. 8 he sent the city a reworked schematic Sept. 27 but was unsure if the city had sent the plan to the DOT. Despite email inquiries Nov. 8 and Nov. 10, the DOT did not confirm they had received the proposal by The Islander’s press time Nov. 15, and Perry and Chappie did not reply to call or text messages Nov. 8 and Nov. 9. Porter’s latest diagrams would be part turN to megabridge, Page 2

Planting to plating. 19 center sports, horseshoes, golf … 20

U.s. postal stamp to salute ‘shark lady’ By Lisa Neff islander editor

Eugenie “the Shark Lady” Clark, who dove deep into marine science in life, surfaced posthumously on a Forever stamp. Isl Biz: Za, acai, fishing, hiring. 22 The U.S. Postal Service announced in November a Forever USA stamp would turkey? get stuffed the honor Clark, a world authority on sharks and easy way. 23 founding director of Mote Marine LaboraCLASSIFIEDS. 24 tory. Clark was known as “Genie” to colPropertyWatch. 26 leagues and friends and also as “the Shark cold results in unpredictable fishing. 21

NYT puzzle. 27

turN to stamp, Page 2

artist amanda Phingbodhipakkiya designed the 2022 u.S. Postal Service stamp honoring the late eugenie “the Shark Lady” clark. islander Photo: courtesy uSPS

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stamp continued from page 1

Lady” for her research and educational programs advancing knowledge and understanding of sharks and other marine life. When she died at age 92 in February 2015, The New York Times reported Clark’s “childhood rapture with fish in a New York City aquarium led to a life of scholarly adventure in the littorals and depths of the Seven Seas and to a global reputation as a marine biologist and expert on sharks.” The collage art on the stamp includes a photograph of Clark and a lemon shark and blue waves to create an underwater scene. Artist Amanda Phingbodhipakkiya designed and created the stamp. Another 2022 release, a series, showcases U.S. marine sanctuaries and marine national monuments, with a photograph on the front and a National Marine megabridge continued from page 1

of the second iteration of a multi-million-dollar proposal. In June, the DOT rejected the city’s initial $4.8 million proposal, a plan that called for the agency to underground utilities along Gulf Drive and the side streets from First Street North to Sixth Street North. At a July 1 meeting, Perry told commissioners the department asked her to pare back the requests and demonstrate how the construction of the high bridge made them necessary. Porter said his reworked undergrounding map did not differ significantly from the original plan and still included the $4.8 million price tag. While the first proposal included undergrounding on Church Street, the new plan omits most of the roadways east of Highland Avenue. In late September, at the city’s request, Florida Power and Light drafted an independent undergrounding plan that Porter said had a slightly larger footprint than the city’s schematic. FPL’s diagram validates the city’s proposals, which include streets outside the footprint of the bridge to

Eugenie Clark, author of the book “The Lady and the Shark,” takes a moment for the camera July 15, 1980, at Mote Marine Laboratory. Clark, a pioneering researcher who launched the marine laboratory in 1955, died in 2015. Islander Photo: Manatee County Public Library System

prevent the creation of utility gaps that would need to be bridged by new utility poles, he said. Burying power lines, which protects infrastructure and keeps roadways clear during hurricanes, has been a focus of the Chappie administration. In 2020, Perry spearheaded a $2 million statefunded undergrounding project along Gulf Drive South including the side streets from 13th Street Sout to Sixth Street South. The city has applied for $2.5 million of state funding for a future undergrounding project. If the DOT tacks on the city’s latest undergrounding proposal to the high bridge construction project, an $86 million initiative, the utilities will be buried when the bridge is built in 2026. Four complainants — former Manatee County Commissioner Joe McClash, former County Commissioner and Cortez resident Jane von Hahmann and Cortez residents Linda Molto and Joe Kane — are challenging the DOT’s decision to build the high bridge in federal court while seeking a compromise on the construction of a 35-foot-clearance drawbridge

Sanctuary System map on the back of 16 stamps. The postal service also announced new stamps observing the Year of the Tiger, celebrating flora and fauna, commemorating civil rights advancements and acknowledging achievements in art, music and more. “The new 2022 stamps are miniature works of art, designed to be educational and appeal to collectors and pen pals around the world,” William Gicker, USPS stamp services director, said in a news release earlier this month. “As always, the program offers a variety of subjects celebrating American culture and history. The vivid colors and unique designs of this year’s selections will add a special touch of beauty on your envelopes.” The USPS could change the designs, as well as add more stamps in the new year.

The 17-foot-clearance Cortez drawbridge opens for a boat Nov. 11. Islander Photo: Kane Kaiman

replacement. The complainants filed an amended complaint Oct. 28 and a federal magistrate could decide the case sometime next year.

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Q&a 111721

The Islander poll Last week’s question

Wait. What? Hey now! How many days until Christmas? When will you do your shopping? 15%. I’m done. 2%. Black Friday. 71%. Through the season. 4%. Christmas Eve. 8%. Other.

This week’s question

Postal business the cortez Post office, 12112 44th ave W., cortez, is busy Nov. 10. the cortez road facility is slated to stay open through November following a court-ordered eviction by the landlord in october. Negotiations to either extend a lease or write a new agreement are ongoing. islander Photo: tomas gomez

Mote’s pier plans awaited the anna maria city Pier, 100 N. Bay Blvd., is where mote marine Laboratory plans to open an education outreach center. the Sarasota-based mote and the city of anna maria have signed a 10-year lease, which allows the city to back out of the agreement if mote’s designs do not satisfy city commissioners. as of Nov. 6, commissioners had not seen design plans from mote. also, there is no timeline for completing the plan. the city commission will meet next at 2 p.m., Wednesday, Nov. 17, at city hall, 10005 gulf drive. islander Photo: Jack elka

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Holmes Beach mayor appoints successor for city attorney By ryan Paice islander reporter

Holmes Beach city attorney Patricia Petruff will pass the baton Dec. 31. City commissioners unanimously voted Nov. 9 to approve Mayor Judy Titsworth’s appointment of Erica Augello from the Clearwater-based Trask Daigneault law firm as Petruff’s successor, effective Jan. 1, 2022. Petruff, who has represented the city for three decades, announced her augello plan in September to step down to an “of counsel” position in January, leaving her unavailable to serve the city. The Holmes Beach city attorney advises on legal matters, including creating code and developing procedures, and handles some civil cases. Petruff In the case of a vacancy for the position, the charter allows the mayor to select and appoint the city attorney with commission approval. Titsworth proposed appointing Augello — who currently serves as the city’s code compliance attorney titsworth

— to the position in October but her choice was met with criticism. Commissioners Jayne Christenson, Jim Kihm and Kim Rash instead advocated to issue a request for proposals to seek additional candidates, but a motion to do so failed when Rash unexpectedly voted against it, resulting in a 2-3 vote. In lieu of an RFP, commissioners agreed to table the item and schedule individual meetings to get to know Augello. Christenson said she had met with Augello and was impressed with her qualifications but reiterated that she would have preferred to issue an RFP for the position. “My main concern is not who was chosen but how it was done,” Christenson said. “I would have liked to see an RFP.” Kihm, who ended his service to the city Nov. 15, agreed, saying he would like to see the city issue RFPs in similar situations moving forward. However, he said his qualms with Titsworth’s appointment had been addressed by his meeting with Augello and he supported the motion to approve. Commissioner Terry Schaefer said that while he understood concerns about a lack of vetting for the position, he believed Augello had proven herself by

Commission appoints final water committee member By ryan Paice islander reporter

The city of Holmes Beach found a seventh and final member for its Clean Water Committee. City commissioners unanimously voted Nov. 9 to appoint Anna Maria resident John Kolojeski, former deputy general counsel and chief of litigation for the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Office of Pesticides, Toxic Substances and Solid Waste Management. Kolojeski also authored a section of a 1976 amendment to the U.S. Clean Water Act, served as a professor at Harvard University for a year and founded the environmental consulting firm Clement Associates Inc. The advisory board was created in September to provide recommendations on projects and policies for improving and protecting local water quality but it has yet to meet. Other appointees include National Marine Manufacturers Association board member Ron Huibers, Mote Marine Laboratory board member Bob Carter, retired naval officer Jeffrey Drinkard, retired entrepreneur and former West Manatee Fire Rescue Commissioner Scott Ricci, food service administrator Nancy Flynn and Center of Anna Maria Island director of

Meetings

Anna Maria City Nov. 17, 2 p.m., commission. Nov. 18, 9 a.m., special magistrate. CANCELED Dec. 9, 2 p.m., commission (organizational). Anna Maria City Hall, 10005 Gulf Drive, 941708-6130, cityofannamaria.com. Bradenton Beach Nov. 17, 1 p.m., planning and zoning. Nov. 15, TBD, mayoral swearing in. Nov. 18, noon, commission. Dec. 1, 9 a.m., CIP. Dec. 1, 9:30 a.m., CRA. Dec. 16, noon, commission. Bradenton Beach City Hall, 107 Gulf Drive N., 941-778-1005, cityofbradentonbeach.com. Holmes Beach Nov. 18, 10 a.m., code. Dec. 1, 10 a.m., parks and beautification. Dec. 1, 5 p.m., planning. Dec. 8, 5 p.m., planning. Dec. 14, 5 p.m., commission. Holmes Beach City Hall, 5801 Marina Drive, 941-708-5800, holmesbeachﬂ.org.

development Jim McDaniel. Commissioner Terry Schaefer, who led the push to create the committee, excitedly introduced Kolojeski to the commission. “John’s career in water quality and environmental interests began back in the ’70s when he was appointed to be an attorney in the formation years of the Environmental Protection Agency,” Schaefer said. “His background, in my opinion, is absolutely perfect for this endeavor.” “We have … a tremendous new member to complement the others who have stepped forward,” he added. Kolojeski, who attended the meeting, said he’s excited to get started and become more involved in the community. “I want to thank you all for giving me this opportunity,” Kolojeski said. “I look forward to devoting my energy to do everything I can to make this community the model for clean water.” Schaefer moved to approve Kolojeski’s appointment. Commissioner Kim Rash seconded the motion. The committee’s first meeting date remained to be determined as of Nov. 12.

West Manatee Fire Rescue None announced. WMFR administration building, 701 63rd St. W., Bradenton, 941-761-1555, wmfr.org. Manatee County None announced. County administration building, 1112 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton, 941-748-4501, mymanatee. org. Also of interest Nov. 23, 9 a.m.-1 p.m., Manatee County Legislative Delegation meeting, county administration building. Nov. 25, Thanksgiving, most government offices will be closed, and also on Nov. 26. Dec. 13, 9 a.m., Manatee County Tourist Development Council, Center of Anna Maria Island, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria. Dec. 25, Christmas, most government offices will observe the holiday with closures Dec. 23-26. Jan. 1, New Year’s, most government offices will be closed Dec. 31-Jan. 2. — Lisa Neff

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

representing the city in special magistrate hearings and Bert Harris lawsuits for five years. “I think performance is what counts,” Schaefer said, adding that Augello had “performed admirably” over that time. Commissioner Carol Soustek moved to approve Augello’s appointment. Schaefer seconded the motion. The agreement includes $200 per hour for attorney service and $80 per hour for paralegal services. Petruff has billed the city $150 per hour for services since 2018. “I appreciate the support of the board of commissioners and the opportunity to serve the city of Holmes Beach as their next city attorney,” Augello wrote in a Nov. 12 email to The Islander. “I am grateful to attorney Patricia Petruff for her service to the city and endeavor to continue in her footsteps to provide the city with diligent and dedicated legal representation.”

HB continues virtual attendance discussion By ryan Paice islander reporter

It’ll take at least one more meeting for the Holmes Beach City Commission to determine what an “extraordinary” absence means for members. City commissioners agreed Nov. 9 to continue a discussion on allowances for elected officials to attend public meetings virtually when faced with extraordinary absences. The discussion began when, during their Aug. 24 meeting, commissioners voted to prohibit Rash from voting on the record. Rash was absent with illness but had called into the meeting. Commissioner Jayne Christenson argued that Rash was being silenced, but other commissioners expressed concern with potentially violating state law. Florida’s Government-in-the-Sunshine Law requires an in-person quorum for public meetings, but permits virtual participation for elected officials absent due to extraordinary circumstances. However, the state does not provide a clear definition for “extraordinary circumstances,” so city commissioners set out to establish guidelines moving forward. Commissioners discussed the item at an Oct. 26 work session and directed city attorney Patricia Petruff to draft an ordinance outlining some examples of extraordinary circumstances. However, Petruff told commissioners Nov. 9 that she had yet to draft the ordinance due to workload issues. She added that more discussion should be held on the item since there had been a lack of agreement on what constitutes an extraordinary circumstance. “Somebody’s grandchild getting married might be a really big deal to your family,” Petruff said. “But that’s not an extraordinary circumstance because it happens all the time.” She said the city should establish general categories for different allowable extraordinary circumstances, such as hospitalization or medical emergency. Commission Chair Jim Kihm, whose term will expire before the item returns for review, suggested allowing some leeway for in-person quorums to vote on certain circumstances that don’t fall within the city’s set categories. He added that such an ordinance should require commissioners to notify city staff if they want to participate virtually. Mayor Judy Titsworth recommended commissioners discourage virtual participation by setting strict guidelines. She said commissioners’ virtual participation had slowed past meetings due to technical issues. “Extraordinary really does need to be extraordinary,” she said. The commission will meet next at 5 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 14, at city hall, 5801 Marina Drive. The meeting is open to the public with masks recommended. Instructions to attend via teleconference are available at holmesbeachfl.org.

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BB and HB officials promise to serve …

Bradenton Beach mayor John chappie, clerk terri Sanclemente and commissioners Jan vosburgh and Jake Spooner pause for a photo with bouquets from the clerk after their Nov. 15 swearing in at city hall. islander Photo: tomas gomez

Holmes Beach commissioners Pat morton, left, terry Schaefer and carol Soustek gather outside the Patricia geyer chambers at city hall Nov. 15 after being sworn into two-year terms as the three highest vote-getters in the Nov. 2 election. islander Photo: ryan Paice

Left to right, mayor John chappie, commissioner Jan vosburgh and commissioner Jake Spooner are sworn into serve new two-year terms by clerk terri Sanclemente. islander Photos: tomas gomez

Left to right, commissioner carol Soustek, commissioner Pat morton and commissioner terry Schaefer are sworn to serve two-year terms by city clerk Stacey Johnston. islander Photos: ryan Paice

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

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Opinion

Our

No news is good news

Not so fast. Some days at The Islander, we wait and wait for good news — any news — and the wait feels like that popular old ketchup commercial. There’s great anticipation as the flow of information is slow coming. Other days, I like to say, it’s like I’m the Maytag man. You know the TV commercial where the friendly repairman would wait and wait for a call that never came because the product didn’t need repairs. So we wait. But there’s no news — only rumors — to report on the Cortez Post Office. John Banyas, owner of the strip center location for the P.O. and numerous other businesses, was likely too busy cracking claws for the past weekend’s stone crab festival to get back to us. Likewise, there’s no news on the illegal house built on pilings just off the commercial docks in Cortez by scofflaw Junior Guthrie, despite the fact the Florida Department of Environmental Protection won an order to have it removed from the state-owned waters. And, by the way, the Florida Legislature didn’t even address the effort by some locals to turn it into a public asset for the community. There also is no news on the outcome of a lawsuit to halt the Florida Department of Transportation from building a megabridge link between Cortez and Bradenton Beach to replace the 17-foot-clearance Cortez Bridge. It’s resting with the court. We remain hopeful. And there’s been no action on the long, drawn-out process for removal of the treehouse from the beachfront in Holmes Beach and I’m pretty sure the property owners, Lynn Tran and Richard Hazen, are grateful for the reprieve on their custom-built retreat. We’ve been craving news on the Mote Marine Laboratory’s plans for the Anna Maria City Pier — but it’s all taking place without the benefit of government sunshine. And it seems the only news in Bradenton Beach revolves around attracting people to Bridge Street for the holidays. Mum’s the word on just about everything at city hall — unless it jingles, glows or ho, ho, ho’s. Meanwhile, the Holmes Beach Commission is on a good track with the election behind them and plenty of “do-able” work ahead — all in the sunshine. We see good things ahead for the “middle city.” So I hope your holiday plans are coming together with vaccinated family members ready to pitch in with good food and great times ahead. Depending on your outlook, no news can be good news. Happy “Vax-giving,” y,all. — Bonner Joy, news@islander.org

NOV. 17, 2021 • Vol. 30, No. 4 Publisher, Co-editor Bonner Joy, news@islander.org ▼ Editorial editor Lisa Neff, lisa@islander.org Joe Bird, editorial cartoonist Kevin cassidy, kevin@islander.org Jack elka, jack@jackelka.com tomas gomez, tomas@islander.org Kane Kaiman, kane@islander.org ryan Paice, ryan@islander.org ▼ Contributors Karen riley-Love Samara Paice amber Sigman capt. danny Stasny, fish@islander.org ▼ Advertising Director toni Lyon, toni@islander.org ▼ Webmaster Wayne ansell ▼ Office Manager, Lisa Williams info@, accounting@, classifieds@, subscriptions@islander.org ▼ Distribution urbane Bouchet ross roberts Judy Loden Wasco (All others: news@islander.org) ▼

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

Your

Opinion

Presence felt

On behalf of the Ministry of Presence, I would like to thank The Islander readers for their love and generosity toward the people of Haiti. During the earthquake in August, many lives were lost, many homes were destroyed. But our presence was felt the next day in the cities of Aquin and Cavaillon. Some of the young people associated with the Ministry of Presence took quick action, setting up food tents and distributing meals, water and small supplies, with what we had on hand. Soon we had cargo containers arriving with tents and more food. Your donations are going far and always making a difference. We are very grateful. J. Ronald Joseph, Ministry of Presence

Hello holidays!

I’d like to thank all who are working in preparation for the holiday season in Bradenton Beach. This includes Bradenton Beach Mayor Chappie, BBPD Chief John Cosby, participating merchants and the Bradenton Beach Community Redevelopment Agency. Bradenton Beach is going to celebrate the holidays like never before. Nov. 20 is a tree-lighting. Dec. 4 is Christmas on Bridge Street and the Christmas Boat Parade, which are going to be an epic time for all. Let’s admit it: Last year was depressing and I think that is why we are all especially excited for this year’s celebration. Bridge Street is ready for the holidays. Come check it out. Bring the family. It’s going to be a joyous holiday season. Sherman Baldwin, president, Bradenton Beach Area Merchants

Chamber credits

The Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce would like to extend a huge thank you to the many amazing individuals who helped us organize and produce the 20th Bayfest — many of them helped us over the past several years. The help includes the volunteers from CrossPointe Fellowship and the chamber volunteers who are always there for us. You are the force of this event. To our sponsors, thank you for your generosity. Through your donations we accomplished another Bayfest and continue working toward fostering community events. To our vendors, thank you for your dedication to providing exceptional and amazing arts, crafts, products, services and delicious food. To our rockin’ bands: You all brought the house down! And last but certainly not least, thank you to the attendees who look forward to coming to this event from near and far. We thank you for your continued patronage. We do this for you and we can’t wait to bring it again. Laura Micciche, member services, Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce

P oh’d

As the father of a longtime newspaper editor, I usually have some insight into the process. But for the life of me, I’m perplexed as to why The Islander ran a particular news story Nov. 10. The story I am referring to is the infamous “peeing” incident that allegedly occurred at St. Bernard Catholic Church on Election Day. Quite frankly it “peed” me off, something that doesn’t happen much anymore. But I don’t intend to get in a “peeing” contest over PLeaSe, See Letters, NeXt Page

Nov. 17, 2021 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 7 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

At inspection

10&20 years ago

members of the u.S. coast guard stand for inspection in october 1976 at the cortez station on Sarasota Bay in cortez village. islander Photos: courtesy manatee county Public Library System

In the Nov. 14, 2001, issue

On the job a member of the u.S. coast guardcortez Station works the desk in the village of cortez. the photo is dated april 1976.

Letters from Page 6

it.

neighbors, friends, constituents and the Holmes Beach Suffice to say that Holmes Beach Commissioner community than anyone I came across in my 30 years Kim Rash has been a close friend of mine for many on the island. years. Period. I knew him as a neighbor on Holmes Boulevard My advice to one and all: “Let people pee in and supported his successful run for commissioner. peace.” In my humble opinion, he has done more for his Bob McCaffrey, Bradenton

We’d love to mail you the news!

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

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• Anna Maria Elementary received $5.17 million to construct a new school. A school advisory council member expressed concern over the allocation of funding, citing $3 million set aside for the project that was never used. • The Tidemark condominium/hotel project at Marina and Gulf drives reached a settlement agreement with the Florida Department of Environmental Protection. Tidemark had appealed a ruling denying a request for an exemption from a permit for dredging and seawall construction. • Issues arose in Bradenton Beach when lastminute campaign flyers containing negative and false statements aimed at John Chappie and others were distributed. The flyers contained no disclaimer and Manatee County Supervisor of Elections Bob Sweat said the flyers would be illegal if they were the product of another candidate.

In the Nov. 16, 2011, issue

• A ribbon-cutting marked the opening of a boardwalk along the shore at the Anna Maria City Pier. The city obtained an $895,000 grant from the state for the project led by Jo Ann Mattick. • A meeting to discuss a potential cell tower at Coquina Beach was set. The meeting was to involve Bradenton Beach and Longboat Key officials, as Longboat Key was considering a plan for a tower at the Longboat Island Chapel. • More than 100 people attended The Islander newspaper’s salute to veterans on their holiday Nov. 11, 2011. The event took place outside Holmes Beach City Hall, with Mike Sales singing the national anthem and remarks and tributes by several island veterans. — Lisa Neff

The Islander has a new location!

The “best news on AMI moved in April to a new, permanent location. We’re now at 315 58th St., Holmes Beach, a commercial condo-ofﬁce behind Ugly Grouper and across Marina Drive from Holmes Beach City Hall. So stop by and check out our new digs. We’re ready to serve you!

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Page 8 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Nov. 17, 2021 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Rising to lieutenant: Longtime BBPD officer promoted By Tomas Gomez Islander Reporter

That’s Lt. Diaz to you! Lenard Diaz of the Bradenton Beach Police Department was promoted from sergeant to lieutenant during a city commission meeting Nov. 4 at city hall. Police Chief John Cosby, promoted to chief from lieutenant and sworn in Oct. 11, offered Diaz his former position in the department. The promotion is part of a plan to restructure the department. “It’s with great honor I stand before you today to announce the promotion of Detective Sgt. Lenard Diaz to lieutenant,” Cosby said in the commission chambers packed with Diaz’s family, among them police officers from other Florida departments. The chief continued, “As lieutenant, he’ll be my second in command. We meet every day, so talking to me is like talking to him.” Diaz joined the BBPD in 2002, serving as a detective sergeant for 19 years. Cosby presented Diaz with a new badge to make the promotion official. The badge comes with extra responsibility, as Diaz takes over day-to-day patrol functions and supervising patrol personnel. He is currently continuing in the role of detective until a new officer is chosen for the position. BBPD has nine officers — Cosby and Diaz included. The department is in the process of making a new hire and will determine within the next year or two Find The Islander dating to November 1992 online at the UofF Digital Newspaper Collection at ufdc. ufl.edu.

Bradenton Beach Police Chief John Cosby, right, presents Lenard Diaz, left, with a new badge upon Diaz’s promotion from sergeant to lieutenant. The ceremony took place Nov. 4 at city hall. Islander Photo: Tomas Gomez

whether to promote someone within to detective or look outside. “I love Bradenton Beach,” Diaz told The Islander Nov. 10. “I was with Palmetto PD for 13 years prior to coming here. Bradenton Beach is a relaxed place but stuff happens out here and I’m grateful to the people, the businesses, the commission and the mayor for giving us a lot of support.” He also said, “It will be business as usual for Bradenton Beach. The chief has a lot of great ideas. He’s been doing a great job and I’m going to try and follow his lead. “Law enforcement is what I always wanted to do. Working this long doing what you love, it makes the work enjoyable.” The changes in the department began with the retirement of Sam Speciale from police chief.

Environmental groups to sue over sewage spills Four environmental groups have notified the city of Bradenton of their intent to sue under the U.S. Clean Water Act over pollution. Suncoast Waterkeeper, Our Children’s Earth, ManaSota-88 and Tampa Bay Waterkeeper plan to sue in federal court, alleging the city “repeatedly sent raw and partially treated sewage into the Manatee River, storm drains, streams, neighborhoods and local waters including Wares Creek, Palma Sola Creek, and Palma Sola Bay which flow into Lower Tampa Bay, Sarasota Bay and the Gulf of Mexico.” The 60-day notice, issued Nov. 11, is required in order to file the suit. Similar cases in the region resulted in settlements with St. Petersburg, Gulfport, Sarasota County and Largo. “Bradenton’s sewage woes are unfortunate and follow a familiar pattern of municipalities neglecting critical environmental infrastructure,” Suncoast Waterkeeper founder Justin Bloom said in a news release. “We hope that Bradenton will follow the path of the other municipalities that we’ve sued and focus their attention of fixing the problems and reducing the sewage pollution that plagues our waterways.” The groups say Bradenton’s own reports show more than 160 million gallons of raw and partially treated sewage have been dumped into the Manatee River over the past four years. — Lisa Neff

Milestones

The Islander welcomes photographs and notices of milestones. Submit announcements and photographs to news@islander.org.

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Nov. 17, 2021 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 9 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Cortez stilt-house remains on waterfront, status in limbo By Kane Kaiman islander reporter

All quiet on the Cortez waterfront. It’s been more than six months since attorney Robert Schermer filed a second motion for a stay of enforcement on a judge’s order that Raymond “Junior” Guthrie’s stilt-house be removed from Sarasota Bay. The structure remains standing and the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, which successfully sued Guthrie in 2018 for building the stilthouse over state-owned submerged land, has not filed a response to the motion. DEP public information officer Shannon Herbon told The Islander in a Nov. 9 email the agency still wants the structure removed. “The department’s position remains unchanged, but, as you know, we can’t comment on litigation strategy,” Herbon said. Guthrie said Nov. 11 he wasn’t aware of any upcoming developments related to the lawsuit and that he’s content with the DEP’s inaction. “As long as they’re leaving me alone, fine,” he said. In 2017, Guthrie built the 1,200-square-foot house on pilings in the water a short distance from the A.P. Bell Fish Co. docks in Cortez. Guthrie he said the pilings had been used to support structures built by his family for three generations. The structure — which has a steel roof, electricity, air conditioning and other amenities — drew the ire of the DEP in early 2018, and a judge ordered it removed from the bay in June 2020. A series of extensions on the order allowed the structure to remain standing. Guthrie and A.P. Bell Fish Co. owner Karen Bell, who has assisted Guthrie with his legal battle, maintain the structure is not a stilt-house, but a modern net camp. Historic net camps were barren shacks built over the water in the 19th century to house cotton fishing

the eastern side of raymond “Junior” guthrie’s stilt-house Nov. 11. the Sarasota Bay structure was built yards off the a.P. Bell fish co. docks in cortez in 2017. islander Photo: Sherri Kaiman

nets and dotted the Cortez waterfront into the 1960s. In April, Manatee County commissioners and state legislators outlined a stilt-house preservation plan in letters addressed to DEP Secretary Noah Valenstein. The letters characterized the structure as a net camp or net camp replica and the plan called for Guthrie to transfer ownership of the structure to a Cortez nonprofit that would modify the exterior to more closely resemble net camps of old. In July, Guthrie and Bell said ownership of the structure was transferred to Cortez Core, Bell’s nonprofit, in late May or early June. Alterations to the exterior wouldn’t be made until the DEP laid out their expectations, Bell said July 22.

However, on the rear deck of the stilt-house, Guthrie erected a roof for shade — a second-story deck in July — although he later removed the staircase and second-story railing. Guthrie told The Islander Aug. 30 the shade roof could be erected and disassembled quickly. It was upright as of Nov. 5. In the past, Guthrie, friends and family have used the structure for barbecues and other recreational events. Members of the Cortez community have said they’ve used the structure for net mending. Boats frequently can be seen docked there. Guthrie said Nov. 11 his last visit to the structure was about a week prior.

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Island happenings

Page 10 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Nov. 17, 2021 ............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... Mana

Kiwanis club to host Salvation Army rep Nov. 20

The Kiwanis Club of Anna Maria Island continues to hold weekly meetings at 8:30 a.m. Saturdays at the Gulf Drive Cafe, 900 Gulf Drive N., Bradenton Beach. The group will hear Nov. 20 from Juan Guadalupe of the Salvation Army of Manatee County — the nonprofit the Kiwanis supports with bell-ringing at the island Publix through Christmas. For more information, call Sandy Haas-Martens at 941-778-1383.

Guild seeks member artists

The Artists’ Guild of Anna Maria Island is seeking local artists to join and show their work in the Artists’ Guild Gallery, 5414 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. “All displaying artists are members of the guild, a thriving group,” said an announcement from the nonprofit. “AGAMI welcomes all types of 2-D and 3-D art, including jewelry, ceramics, stained glass and sculpture.” For more information about joining, contact gallery director Anne Abgott at annecabgott@ gmail.com or call the gallery at 941-778-6694.

Collecting nonprofit wishes

The Islander is collecting wishes from community organizations for its annual Wish Book. Each fall, the newspaper collects a list of needs from islandrelated nonprofits for publication at Thanksgiving. Nonprofit representatives can submit wish lists to Lisa Neff at lisa@islander.org. And readers, look for wishes from your favorite local groups in the Nov. 24 issue of the Islander — in time for Black Friday shopping. For more information, call The Islander newspaper office at 941-778-7978.

Submit your social news, weddings, anniversaries, births, travel photos and event news to news@islander.org. SHARE THE FUN.

Island businesses collect toys for tots for holidays A team of island businesses is collecting toys to stuff Santa’s sack. The businesses are taking donations for the annual Toys for Tots program launched nearly 75 years ago by the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve to provide gifts to children during the holiday season. Since 1947, the global campaign has collected toys, books and other gifts for more than 272 million children. On Anna Maria Island, people can drop off unwrapped gifts at the following locations through Wednesday, Dec. 15: • Holmes Beach: A Paradise Realty, 5201 Gulf Drive; Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce, 5313 Gulf Drive; Duffy’s Tavern, 5808 Marina Drive; the Feast Restaurant, 5406 Marina Drive; Grooms Motors

and Automotive, 5608 Marina Drive; Holmes Beach Post Office, 5354 Gulf Drive; Hurricane Hanks, 5346 Gulf Drive; Publix Super Market, 3900 E. Bay Drive; and the Waterline Resort, 5325 Marina Drive. • Anna Maria: Center of Anna Maria Island, 407 Magnolia Ave., and the U.S. post office, 101 S. Bay Blvd. • Cortez: Slicker’s Eatery, 12012 Cortez Road W., Cortez. For more information, please visit www.toysfortots.org.

AMI says ‘Happy Thanks-Living’ with Nov. 21 picnic, party Pack the picnic basket because islanders will gather for Thanks-Living the Sunday before Thanksgiving. The event — the second such celebration on Anna Maria Island — will be 4-7 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 21, at City Pier Park at the corner of Pine Avenue and Bay Boulevard in Anna Maria. Attendees can bring picnic items for dinner if they like, as well as Publix supermarket gift cards to donate to the Roser Food Pantry and All Island Denominations.

Garden club selling plants

The 2021-22 season is beginning to flower. The Anna Maria Island Garden Club’s annual plant sale will be 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 17. The event will be in the fellowship hall at Roser Memorial Community Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Shoppers will find herbs and vegetable plants, as well as flowering plants, hanging baskets and more. Proceeds will go toward protecting native plants and birds and encouraging civic plantings and conservation. For more information, call Charlotte Noyes at 781983-1937.

Organizers plan to provide tables, chairs and a “family blanket area” and arrange for entertainment by musician Will Corr, as well as for community groups to staff information tables. “Thanks-Living is a celebration of our community, fostering relationships, promoting a sense of pride in AMI and giving thanks as we enter this holiday season,” the notice read. For more information, call the Anna Maria public works department at 941-708-6132.

Senior Adventures plan book sale, potluck lunches

The Senior Adventures group is turning a new page after going on hiatus due to the pandemic. The group will hold a two-day book sale at Annie Silver Community Center, 103 23rd St. N., Bradenton Beach. The sale is set for 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Friday-Saturday, Nov. 26-27. Hardcover books will be priced $1 and paperbacks 50 cents. Plans also include gathering for a potluck lunch. For more information about Senior Adventures, which seeks a coordinator and van driver for activities, call the Center of Anna Maria Island at 941-7781908.

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Yo ho ho! 50 Years!

guests at the Nov. 13 50th anniversary gala of the anna maria island Privateers look over two sculptures, original art donated by Stewart Hale of venice, a member of the Privateer krew.

the view of Sarasota Bay at img golf academy clubhouse Nov. 13 provides a perfect setting for the auction items offered at the Privateers 50th anniversary gala. islander Photos: Bonner Joy

Privateers roger “Hoodat” murphy, left, maryann “maz” Zyla, both former presidents, Kelly “moulin” Sparkman, gala chairperson and Kristen carlton, chat at the ami Privateers 50th anniversary gala.

Henry Lawrence, center, featured speaker at the Privateers gala, chats with guests after dinner at the img clubhouse.

Bob Harrington of WWSB aBc-7 tv of Sarasota and mc for the event, videos Henry Lawrence, former NfL player, as he speaks.

Kelly “moulin” Sparkman, chair of the black-tie gala, is surprised with a bouquet by former Privateer president roger “Hoodat” murphy — a thank you for her hard work at making the 50th anniversary celebration an event for the history book.

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Page 12 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Nov. 17, 2021 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: mymanatee.org/library, Dec. 4, Keep Manatee Beautiful’s Coquina Beach cleanup, 941-778-6341. Bradenton Beach. Tuesday, Nov. 23 February 2022, Friends of the Island Library Book Sale. 10 a.m.— Family storytime, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, ONGOING OFF AMI Holmes Beach. Information: mymanatee.org/library, 941-778Wednesdays, 3 p.m., the Longboat Key Paradise Center for 6341. ARTS & Healthy Living “Grieve Not Alone: Peer Support Group,” 546 Bay AHEAD ON AMI ENTERTAINMENT Isles Road, Longboat Key. Information: theparadisecenter.org, 941Dec. 28, first “Movies in the Park” of the season, Anna Maria. 383-6493. ONGOING ON AMI Tuesdays, noon, Rotary Club of Anna Maria Island lunch ONGOING OFF AMI Throughout November, “Walk on the Wild Side” exhibit featurmeeting, Compass Hotel by Margaritaville, 12324 Manatee Ave. ing work by Jody Goldman, Island Gallery West, 5368 Gulf Drive, First Wednesdays, 5:30 p.m., “Soar in 4 Family Night, the W., Perico Island. Second Tuesdays at 5 p.m. Information: 941-920Holmes Beach. Information: islandgallerywest.com, 941-778- Bishop Museum of Science and Nature, 201 10th St. W., Braden- 2505. 6648. ton. Fee applies. Information: soarin4.org, 941-746-4131. OUTDOORS & Throughout November and December, artist-crafted Christmas AHEAD OFF AMI SPORTS ornaments exhibit, Artists’ Guild Gallery, 5414 Marina Drive, Holmes Dec. 4, Florida Maritime Museum’s Christmas in Cortez, Beach. Information: 941-778-6694. ON AMI Cortez. AHEAD ON AMI Thursday, Nov. 18 CLUBS & 9 a.m. — Seashell Shore Walk with Manatee County Parks and Dec. 10, Holiday Walk of Treasures open houses and Holiday COMMUNITY Natural Resources, Coquina Beach, Bradenton Beach. Information: Carols in the Park, Anna Maria. 941-742-5923. Jan. 13, first Friends of the Island Library 2022 lecture, Holmes ON AMI Beach. ONGOING ON AMI Wednesday, Nov. 17 OFF AMI 9 a.m.-1 p.m. — Anna Maria Island Garden Club plant sale, AMI Dragon Boat Team—Paddlers From Paradise practices Roser Memorial Community Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. and meetups, various times and locations. Information: 941-462Saturday, Nov. 20 2626, mrbradway@gmail.com. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. — East2West Art Market, Bradenton Area Con- Information: 941-920-5929. Thursday, Nov. 18 vention Center, 1 Haben Blvd., Palmetto. Information: getinvolved@ OFF AMI 10:15 a.m. — Island Library Book Club, 5701 Marina Drive, parrishartscouncil.org. Holmes Beach. Information: mymanatee.org/library, 941-778- Thursday, Nov. 18 Sunday, Nov. 21 6 p.m. — “Teen Nature Night at the NEST,” Robinson Preserve 11 a.m.-4 p.m. — East2West Art Market, Bradenton Area Con- 6341. 2 p.m. — Sunshine Stitchers Knit and Crochet, 5701 Marina expansion, 840 99th St. NW, Bradenton. Information: mymanatee. vention Center, 1 Haben Blvd., Palmetto. Information: getinvolved@ Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: mymanatee.org/library, 941-778- org, 941-742-5923. parrishartscouncil.org. 6341. Saturday, Nov. 20 ONGOING OFF AMI Saturday, Nov. 20 8 a.m. — Give a Day for the Bay native seed collection and 11 a.m. — Meditation session, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes spreading, Perico Preserve, 11700 Manatee Ave. W., Perico Island. Through Nov. 28, Marie Selby Botanical Gardens annual Information: 727-893-2765. “Orchid Show: Aerialists from the Tree top to the Big Top” in col- Beach. Information: mymanatee.org/library, 941-778-6341. 3 p.m. — “Holidays in Paradise” tree-lighting celebration, Bridge laboration with the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, 1534 ONGOING OFF AMI Mound St., Sarasota. Fee applies. Information: 941-366-5731, selby. Street, Bradenton Beach. Information: 941-778-2288. Saturdays, 8 a.m., Robinson Runners running club, RobinSunday, Nov. 21 org. son Preserve expansion, 840 99th St. NW, Bradenton. Information: 4-7 p.m. — LOVE AMI’s Thanks-Living Celebration, City Pier Saturdays, 9 a.m.-2 p.m., Bradenton Farmers Market, Main Street, downtown Bradenton. Information: realizebradenton.com, Park, Pine and North Bay Boulevard, Anna Maria. Information: 941- mymanatee.org, 941-742-5923, ext. 6047. Saturdays, 9 a.m., Saturday Mornings at the NEST nature 705-7435. 941-301-8445. exploration, Robinson Preserve expansion, 840 99th St. NW, BraSecond and fourth Saturdays, noon-2 p.m., Chickee Hut ONGOING ON AMI denton. Information: mymanatee.org, 941-742-5923, ext. 6047. Jammers session, presented by the Florida Maritime Museum and Fridays, 11:30 a.m., Mahjong Club, Island Library, 5701 Marina Saturdays once a month, Manatee County Audubon Society Cortez Cultural Center, outdoors, 4415 119th St. W., Cortez. InforDrive, Holmes Beach. Information: mymanatee.org/library, 941-778workday, Felts Preserve, 4600 24th Ave. E., Palmetto. Information: mation: floridamaritimemuseum.org, fmminfo@manateeclerk.com. 6341. manateeaudubon.org, zholmes003@gmail.com. “Battles of the Boneless” exhibit, the Bishop Museum of SciSaturdays, 8:30 a.m., Kiwanis Club of Anna Maria Island meetence and Nature, 201 10th St. W., Bradenton. Fee applies. InformaAHEAD OFF AMI ing, Gulf Drive Cafe, 900 Gulf Drive N., Bradenton Beach. Information: bishopmuseum.org, 941-746-4131. Dec. 11, Manatee County Audubon Society field trip to Perico tion: 941-778-1383. AHEAD OFF AMI Tuesdays, 8:30 a.m.-2 p.m., Farmers Market in the Park, City Preserve, Perico Island. Pier Park, Pine Avenue and Bay Boulevard, Anna Maria. Information: Dec. 3-5, Bradenton Blues Fest, Bradenton. GOOD TO KNOW 941-708-6130. KIDS & FAMILY Tuesdays, 11:30 a.m. — Mahjong Club, Island Library, 5701 KEEP THE DATES Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: mymanatee.org/library, ON AMI Tuesday, Dec. 21, winter solstice. 941-778-6341. Saturday, Dec. 25, Christmas Day. Friday, Nov. 19 AHEAD ON AMI Friday, Dec. 31, New Year’s Eve. 10 a.m. — 40 Carrots Partners in Play, Island Library, 5701 — Lisa Neff Nov. 27-27, Senior Adventures book sale and potluck lunch, Send listings for the calendar to calendar@islander.org. Bradenton Beach.

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Nov. 17, 2021 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 13 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Fall Fest falls short of $1K, changes discussed This year’s Fall Festival wasn’t a record-setter for Anna Maria Elementary’s parent-teacher organization. AME-PTO president Nicole Plummer said Nov. 8 that the Oct. 23 event, the organization’s largest annual fundraiser, raised $956 this year due to some unchecked expenses and lower-than-projected income. This year was the first time the PTO has held the event since 2019, before the onset of the coronavirus pandemic. The PTO projected the event to raise about $15,000 before expenses, but only collected $13,047. An issue lies in expenses. The $12,091 expenses recorded for the event were $8,091 over the PTO’s $4,000 budget. Plummer stressed the need to better monitor spending for future events. “There was no official approval to extend the $4,000 budget,” Plummer said. “We need to stay up with the finances and not let it get out of control. I didn’t even know we were writing checks in the amount we were writing until the day of.” She said many of the costs, such as food vendors and equipment rentals, were extraordinarily high due to the pandemic. “The good news is, everything’s flush right now. So it doesn’t matter this year and it was a great event,” she added. “It wasn’t a fundraiser. …But it was really fun.” The lack of revenue spurred PTO members to discuss potential changes to the annual event for the future. This year’s event already featured one change to its traditional format — the lack of a haunted house, a staple of past fall festivals — but PTO members agreed the endeavor wasn’t worth the payout. PTO treasurer Kari Kennedy, who organized this year’s festival, recommended they move the event to

ame teacher maggie vanWormer’s garden club meets Nov. 6 to weed and install concrete steppingstones.

Send your social news, weddings, anniversaries, births, travel photos, fishing, sports and event news and photos to news@islander.org. SHARE THE FUN.

the first week of October so it doesn’t compete for vendors with other Halloween events. “You’re going to have a hard time convincing somebody to come to our little festival as compared to going out to one of those huge events,” she said. “Those guys are getting major money out there and foot traffic.” There also were suggestions to scrap the class parade and costume contest but PTO members agreed to keep both. Plummer said another issue this year’s festival faced was a lack of parent volunteers. She suggested organizing the event earlier in the year. She added that the PTO could add a fundraising event to its yearly plans if the festival isn’t expected to continue raising the kind of money it had in the past. The PTO board will meet next at 3:30 p.m. Monday, Jan. 10, 2022, at AME, 4700 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. People can learn more about the PTO at amepto. org.

Growing skills at AME

By Ryan Paice, ryan@islander.org

By RyanBy Ryan Paice Paice

AME Calendar ing.

• Nov. 18, 3:45 p.m., school advisory council virtual meet-

• Nov. 22-26, Thanksgiving holiday. • Dec. 6-10, scholastic book fair. • Dec. 14, 6:30 p.m., ﬁfth-grade play, dinner TBD. • Dec. 21, end of semester. • Dec. 22-31, winter holiday break. Anna Maria Elementary is at 4700 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. For more information, call the school at 941-708-5525.

ame students Penny Payne, 9, left, Lily Plummer, 10, and Piper Payne, 11, weed flower beds Nov. 6 while participating in garden club, led by teacher maggie vanWormer. islander Photos: courtesy ame-Pto

ame’s garden club weeds flower beds Nov. 6 near the school’s bus loop.

Page 14 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Nov. 17, 2021 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Gathering

‘Angel Tree’ adorned roser memorial community church’s “angel tree” contains tags — each tag lists a child’s holiday wishes that need fulfilling. donors can take a tag, complete the wish list and return unwrapped gifts in a bag, with the tag attached, to the church, 512 Pine ave., anna maria, by Sunday, Nov. 28. for more information, contact the church at 941-7780414 or info@roserchurch.com.

By Lisa Neff

Gloria Dei to bless pets

At Gloria Dei Lutheran Church’s Community Pet Blessing, there usually are a lot of “aahs” to go with the “Amens.” This year’s pet blessing will be at 10 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 20, at the church, 6608 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Attendees are encouraged to bring donations of dry pet food and other pet items to benefit Underdog Rescue of Florida. For more information, call the church office at 941- 778-1813.

Roser to host ‘surviving the holidays’ seminar

Roser Memorial Community Church’s “GriefShare Surviving the Holidays seminar” is planned as church leaders recognize that a season of comfort and joy can also bring dread and depression. The two-hour seminar will be at 11:30 a.m. Sunday, Nov. 21, after the day’s worship services at the church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. “The seminar offers practical, actionable strategies for making it through the holiday season,” said a news release from Roser. “ You’ll view a video featuring advice from people in grief who’ve faced the holidays after their loss. You’ll hear insights from respected Christian counselors, pastors and psychologists.” Attendance is free but a donation is suggested for the survival guide provided at the seminar. For more information or to register, go online to roserchurch.com/holidays. People also can call the church at 941-778-0414.

Gathering

Gathering is the religion page for The Islander. We welcome news from local places of worship, as well as photos and calendar listings. Please, submit to news@ islander.org.

Tidings

9:30 a.m. — Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, 6608 Marina Drive. Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-1813. 10 a.m. — Roser Church. REGULAR WORSHIP 10 a.m. — Christ Church of Longboat Key Presbyterian USA, Monday-Friday 6400 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key. Info: 941-900-4903. 8:30 a.m. — St. Bernard Catholic Church, 248 S. Harbor Drive, 10 a.m. — Longboat Island Chapel, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-4769. Longboat Key. Info: 941-383-6491. Thursdays 10:30 a.m. — St. Bernard. 9:30 a.m. — Episcopal Church of the Annunciation, 4408 Gulf ONGOING EVENTS Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-1638. Saturdays Wednesdays, 6:45 p.m., CrossPointe Wednesday Night Blast. 4 p.m. — St. Bernard Catholic Church. Thursdays, 7 p.m., Roser chancel choir rehearsals. Sundays Thursdays, 9:30 a.m., Roser Robics ﬁtness. 8 a.m. — Episcopal Church of the Annunciation. Tuesdays, 9:30 a.m., Roser Robics ﬁtness. 8:30 a.m. — St. Bernard Catholic Church. SPECIAL EVENTS 8:30 a.m. — Roser Memorial Community Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Information: 941-778-0414. Saturday, Nov. 20, 10 a.m., pet blessing, Gloria Dei. 9 a.m. — CrossPointe Fellowship, 8605 Gulf Drive, Holmes Sunday, Nov. 21, 11:30 a.m., holiday grief seminar, Roser. Beach. Information: 941-778-0719. SAVE THE DATES 9:15 a.m. — Harvey Memorial Community Church, 300 Church Ave., Bradenton Beach. Information: 941-779-1912. Nov. 28, Hanukkah begins. 9:45 a.m. — Episcopal Church of the Annunciation. Dec. 25, Christmas Day.

Obituary

GoodDeeds

Peter T. Barreda

Peter T. Barreda, 60, of Cortez and formerly of Bradenton Beach, died Nov. 6. He was born to Rafael and Dahlia. He was founder and the original owner of the Cortez Kitchen in the fishing village, where many gathered and memories were created. He had a passionate love affair with cooking, sharing stories, spending time with family and friends and

Gloria Dei Lutheran Church Community Pet Blessing All are welcome! Collecting dry pet food, accessories & monetary donations for Underdog Rescue of Florida

Saturday November 20 10 AM th

6608 Marina Drive Holmes Beach

leaving a boisterous and indelible mark in all of our hearts. His loving attitude, infectious energy and caring spirit will be missed forever. A blessing and graveside cerBarreda emony will be at 11 a.m. Tuesday, Nov. 16, at Myrtle Hill Cemetery in Tampa. A memorial celebration will be 2-5 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 21, at the Swordfish Grill, 4628 119th St. W., Cortez. A surfers “paddle out” will precede the the celebration of life at 10:50 a.m. Nov. 21 at the Sixth Street South pier in Bradenton Beach. The family requests donations in lieu of flowers be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, stjude.org, or a charity of your choice in Peter’s remembrance. Mr. Barreda is survived by siblings Ralph, Julie and husband Clarence, and Mark and wife Pidge; nieces-nephews Emily, Maria and husband Rex, Zoe and Benjamin; a great nephew on the way; as well as many aunts, uncles, cousins, family and friends.

Assistance sought on AMI

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

Assistance offered on AMI

• The Roser Food Bank welcomes applicants who live and/or work on Anna Maria Island for food Obituaries are provided free — a service of your assistance, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Information: 941-778-0414. community newspaper. Contact news@islander.org.

At your service

SUNDAY WORSHIP • 8:30 AM or 10:00 AM

COMMUNITY CHURCH • Sermon Series by Rev. Dirk Rodgers IN PERSON in the Sanctuary Nursery • Children’s Church

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Text ROSER to 22828 to receive the weekly eBulletin The CHAPEL is open during office hours for prayer and meditation

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

Worship With Us at Our Church Sunday Service 10:00 AM The Rev. Dr. Norman Pritchard Masks Are Optional Visitors & Residents Welcome Watch Our 10:00 AM Service Live:

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Nov. 17, 2021 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 15 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Rain fails to dampen return of Anna Maria’s Veterans Day events

Hundreds of people gather under and around the shade sails Nov. 11 at city Pier Park, 103 N. Bay Blvd., anna maria, for a ceremony to conclude the city’s old Soldiers and Sailors veterans day celebration, which began with a parade on Pine avenue.

military veterans lead the way on Pine avenue Nov. 11 during anna maria’s old Soldiers and Sailors veterans day Parade. the parade was canceled last year due to the coronavirus pandemic but returned this year with hundreds in attendance — despite a drizzle. the parade went from city hall, 10005 gulf drive, to city Pier Park, 103 N. Bay Blvd., where mayor dan murphy led a ceremony honoring veterans. islander Photos: ryan Paice 11/13/2020

the fourth assault amphibian Battalion honor guard from tampa present the colors Nov. 11 at city Pier Park. the presentation was followed by speakers and recognition for all military veterans and families.

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Page 16 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Nov. 17, 2021 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

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Streetlife

Staff reports

Island police reports

Anna Maria No new reports. The Manatee County Sheriff’s Ofﬁce polices Anna Maria. Bradenton Beach Nov. 2, Circle K, 2513 Gulf Drive North, theft. An arrest warrant was issued for an alleged theft of lottery tickets Aug. 8 after video showed an employee scratching tickets, throwing out losing tickets and cashing in winning tickets. The alleged stolen tickets were valued at $155 and the payout amounted to $255. Nov. 8, 2800 block of Gulf Drive North, arrest warrant. A Bradenton Beach police officer stopped a motorist for blocking traffic. The driver was cited for driving without a license. The vehicle was searched and BBPD found a glass pipe and a bag with a crystallike substance that tested as methamphetamine. The driver also had a warrant for his arrest. He was arrested for possession and the outstanding warrant. Nov. 10, Coquina Beach, burglary. The BBPD issued an arrest warrant in relation to a May 19 car burglary after identifying fingerprints on the vehicle’s passenger window. The burglary involved the theft of a purse and credit cards, which someone tried to use.

The purchase attempts were caught on video. Bradenton Beach is policed by the BBPD. Cortez No new reports. The MCSO polices Cortez. Holmes Beach Nov. 4, 0-100 block of Seaside Court, assisting another agency. A Holmes Beach police officer responded to requests for assistance from the Pt. Pleasant, New Jersey, Police Department to notify a man at his Florida residence that his restraining order had been dismissed. An officer completed the notification and turned the case back to the PPPD. Nov. 7, Manatee Public Beach, 4000 Gulf Drive, Baker Act. An officer responded to reports of a suicidal woman at the beach. The officer found the woman and had emergency medical services transport her to Blake Medical Center in Bradenton. Nov. 8, Publix Super Market, 3900 E. Bay Drive, trespass. An officer responded to calls about a suspicious man cursing at customers and met with a manager, who identified the man and asked him to be trespassed. The officer trespassed the man, who left the scene without incident. HBPD polices Holmes Beach. Streetlife is based on incident reports and narratives from the BBPD, HBPD and MCSO.

Islander archive 24/7

Some years ago, The Islander was invited to take part in a pilot project with the University of Florida George A. Smathers Libraries. We donated our collection of printed newspapers beginning with the first edition in 1992. It took some time, but now it’s all maintained on the library site, searchable by key word, name or date. You can find everything there from 1992 to current, and even some of the older Islander newspapers from an earlier publisher, the era 1954 to the 1970s. Look online for Islander at the UofF Florida digital newspaper collection at ufdc.ufl.edu.

RoadWatch Eyes on the road

The Florida Department of Transportation posted the following: • State Road 789/Gulf Drive at intersection with Avenue C south to Ninth Street North in Bradenton Beach: Crews are replacing the east sidewalk with permeable pavers. Expect lane closures and flagging operations, as well as construction noise. The contractor is AF USA Construction Corp. The project is expected to be completed late this year. • Manatee Avenue and Gulf Drive in Holmes Beach: Contractor Turtle Infrastructure will be milling and resurfacing the roadway and will have overnight lane closures Nov. 18.

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Page 18 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Nov. 17, 2021 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

County updating parks plan, setting priorities, policies By Lisa Neff islander editor

Skating was a top outdoor trend in 1986, when Manatee County designed its current blueprint for recreation. Now skating is back and so is work on drafting a master parks plan for the county. The next update — four years in the works — could be adopted and implemented this month, as the board of county commissioners was set to consider a resolution adopting the master plan Nov. 16. Director Charlie Hunsicker and his parks and natural resources team reviewed elements of the plan during a special meeting Nov. 9 at the county administration building in Bradenton. The parks department created the plan with guidance from commissioners and citizens through discussions and surveys. In one survey, the department polled the public on current amenities, finding 94% satisfaction with Robinson Preserve in west Bradenton, 86% satisfaction with Manatee Public Beach in Holmes Beach and 84% satisfaction with Coquina Beach in Bradenton Beach. The survey also polled on top needs. Nature trails ranked No. 1, followed by paved trails, unpaved trails, boardwalks, outdoor pools and indoor gyms. Incorporated into the draft document are planned capital improvements, including for amenities on or near Anna Maria Island: • Boardwalk repairs and replacement at Leffis Key in Bradenton Beach and Neal Preserve on Perico Island.

manatee county’s parks plan lists a multimillion dollar renovation of the Kingfish Boat ramp near the entrance to Holmes Beach on manatee avenue. islander Photo: Jack elka

• Land purchase and construction of a trail connecting Perico Preserve on Perico Island and Robinson Preserve on the mainland, as well as other additions at Perico, such as restrooms, a water fountain and kiosk. • Planned improvements at Robinson include trail shelters and pavilions, more kayak storage and boardwalk repairs. • At Coquina Beach, plans include continued drainage work, replacement of a restroom and possibly a new concession facility with a tiki hut.

• Boat ramp plans include replacement of the ramp at Kingfish, along with reconfiguring and resurfacing parking and expanding the docking system. Development of the master plan proved “a test of strength and patience,” Commission Chair Vanessa Baugh said Nov. 9.

Volunteers called to ‘Give a Day for the Bay’ Volunteers will seed a west Manatee preservation effort Saturday, Nov. 20, during “Give a Day for the Bay.” The work is coordinated by Manatee County Parks and Natural Resources and both the Tampa and Sarasota bay estuary programs at Perico and Robinson preserves. Volunteers are needed 8 a.m.-noon to collect native seeds from Perico Preserve and spread the seeds at

Robinson. Masks are recommended for volunteers not vaccinated for the coronavirus. Volunteers should bring water bottles but organizers will provide refill stations, as well as bagged lunches and Mother Kombucha donated by Agua Bucha. For more information, call the SBEP at 941-9558085.

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Nov. 17, 2021 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 19 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

By Lisa Neff

From planting to plating

The idea of creating community gardens on AMI is taking root in Holmes Beach and I dig the enthusiasm. The Holmes Beach Parks and Beautification Committee is revisiting the concept of creating a community garden in Veterans Park at city hall, 5801 Marina Drive. The Islander reported Nov. 4 that committee members reached consensus to direct city engineer Sage Neff Kamiya to obtain cost estimates to test the concept of a community garden at the park. If the committee goes forward and sees success in the small space between city hall and the Island Library, another community garden may be created on city-owned land abutting Grassy Point Preserve, 3021 Ave. C. Both locations present challenges and opportunities. It’s fitting to create the test garden at Veterans Park, as today’s community garden campaigns seem in the spirit of the Victory Gardens planted during World Wars I and II. With those gardens, communities grew produce so other resources could go toward the war efforts. Today’s community gardens serve different purposes but still create resilient communities, encourage healthy ecosystems, celebrate a connection to the cycle

a poster encourages support for victory gardens, popularized during World War i and WWii. islander Photo: Library of congress

VGI operates under the slogan, “This is a grass roots movement. Move grass. Grow food.” Their campaign has led volunteers to grow community gardens, launch an urban farm, create fruit orchids, train growers, establish nutritional education programs and inspire similar work in other Wisconsin cities and beyond that state’s borders. The Holmes Beach committee is in the conceptual stage of planning and the first community plots may be butterfly gardens that provide direct sustenance for pollinators rather than people. But I do hope the island community can rally around the old concept of Victory Gardens, as growing food reminds us of the Earth, reintegrates us with ecology and guides our culture toward a sustainable, abundant future. I’ve noticed in the supermarkets the higher prices on produce and also observed a scarcity of some fresh food. I’ve also heard the old stories of islanders providing for themselves — fresh fish and shellfish from the Gulf and bays, fruit and nuts from trees and bushes, vegetables growing in plots on the leeward sides of AMI cottages. Let’s rally around the cause.

For more

The advisory Holmes Beach Parks and Beautificaof life and, yes, yield good, nutritious food. tion Committee will meet next at 10 a.m. Wednesday, When working as a reporter in Milwaukee, I covDec. 1, at city hall, 5801 Marina Drive. For more inforered environmental efforts and organizations, includmation, go online to holmesbeachfl.org. ing the budding Victory Garden Initiative launched in For more information about the Victory Garden 2009. Initiative, go online to victorygardeninitiative.org.

Listen up… Jack Weldon, 8, visiting anna maria island with family from Bristol, virginia, found a fun, new friend while dining outdoors Nov. 11 at tide tables in cortez — and quickly figured out what the local kids know about how to show off a brown anole aka “lizard.” Jack and younger brother John agreed, “that’s pretty cool.” mom and dad, maria and Prescott, got a good laugh from Jack’s new skill. islander Photo: Bonner Joy

Always fishin’ for news.

Did you know? there are green anoles in florida — this is a native species. and there are brown anoles in florida — this species is known as the cuban brown anole or de la Sagra’s anole and it is native to cuba and the Bahamas. florida’s green anole — anolis carolinensis — can change color from green to brown and vice versa. However, the cuban brown anole — anolis sagrei — are never green, according to the florida fish and Wildlife conservation commission.

www.islander.org

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Page 20 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Nov. 17, 2021 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Adult soccer still in play at center, youth football on deck By Kevin P. cassidy islander reporter

With one regular season game left to play in the adult soccer league at the Center of Anna Maria Island before the playoffs, the top seed is secure. Sato Real Estate is firmly entrenched at the top with a 6-0 record. Slim’s Place holds down second place with a 4-1-1 record, just ahead of Servis First Bank at 4-2. Blalock Walters holds down fourth place with a 3-2-1 record, just ahead cassidy of Emily Moss Designs at 3-3. The Gitt Team at 2-4, Beach Bums at 1-5 and 0-6 Sandbar Restaurant complete the standings. Action Nov. 11 kicked off with Slim’s Place defeating the Gitt Team 4-2 thanks to a hat trick by Jessica Williams. Kali Richardson added a goal, while Tuna McCracken added an assist while also coming through with 12 saves in goal. Daniel Adan and Keith Mahoney each scored goals to lead the Gitt Team in the loss, along with an assist from Raul Loria and a combined five saves from Loria and Mahoney. Emily Moss Designs outscored Beach Bums 3-1 behind two goals from Greg Moss and a goal from Kevin Roman. Ryan Moss helped preserve the victory with five saves. Miguel Ajoy scored the lone goal for Beach Bums, which received three saves from Mark Long in the loss. Sato remained unbeaten via forfeit after Blalock Walters was unable to field a team. The last match of the night saw Servis First Bank cruise to an 8-2 victory over Sandbar Restaurant behind five goals from Ugur Durmaz. Mauricio Vargas, Olaf Krause and Erica Nielsen each scored goals for Servis, which also received four saves and two assists from Osvaldo Cabello in the victory. Aaron French scored two goals to lead Sandbar, which also received three saves from Javier Valle. Action continues Nov. 18 with the last regularseason matches to determine final seedings for the playoffs, which are set to begin Dec. 2.

tom farrington and tim Sofran bask in the winner’s circle at the Nov. 10 horseshoe competition at the anna maria city Hall horseshoe pits. islander Photo: courtesy ami Pitchers

starting Nov. 8 with the men playing their regular modified-Stableford system match. Blake Ress and Art McMillan tied for first place at plus-3, a point ahead of Bob Blaser, Larry Pippel, Earl Ritchie and Bob Soos who finished in a four-way tie for second place. Ress also was part of the winning team of Pippel, Jana Samuels and Quentin Talbert on a combined plus-1. The women played their weekly nine-hole individual-low-net match in two flights Nov. 9. Mary Wilke and Linda Dorsey shared the top spot in Flight A with matching 1-under-par 31s, one stroke

ahead of Brenda Solleveld. Judy Christensen was alone in third place after carding a 1-over-par 33. Margrit Layh and Judy Todd both finished at 2-over-par 34 to tie for first place in Flight B. Sue Christenson was a stroke back in second place, while Janet Razze took third place at 4-over-par 36. Members played a nine-hole shamble, counting the two best scores from each group Nov. 12. The team of Brian Comer, Jim McFarland and Hoyt Miller combined on a 3-under-par 61 to earn clubhouse bragging rights for the day. The team of Tim Donner, Blake Ress, Tom Solosky and Ron Vandeman were one stroke back in second place.

Registration ongoing for youth football at center The Center of Anna Maria Island is registering players ages 5-17 for its winter flag football league with the season of games kicking off Jan. 11. Cost is $10 for members and $130 for nonmembers. Games will be played Tuesday evenings with, Wednesdays occasionally in the mix. Player evaluations are set for Dec. 7 at 5:30 p.m.

for the 5-7 and 8-10 age divisions, while the 11-13 and 14-17 divisions will be at 7:30 p.m. Interested players can register online at centerami.org or at the center, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria. For more information, contact Connor Haughey at the center at 941-778-1908, ext. 217.

Horseshoe news Two teams emerged from pool play and battled for the day’s bragging rights during Nov. 10 horseshoe action at the Anna Maria City Hall pits. Tom Farrington and Tim Sofran were the last two standing thanks to a 22-12 victory over Rod Bussey and Tom Skoloda in the championship game. Four teams advanced to the knockout stage during the Nov. 13 games. Gene Bobeldyk and Sofran cruised into the finals with a dominating 21-4 victory over Bob Heiger and Bob Hawks in the first semifinal. The team of Steve Doyle and Bob Palmer advanced with a 22-13 win over Bob Rowley. Doyle and Palmer prevailed in the final with a 22-14 victory over Bobeldyk and Sofran. Play gets underway at 9 a.m. Wednesdays and Saturdays at the Anna Maria City Hall pits. Warmups begin at 8:45 a.m., followed by random team selection. There is no charge to play and everyone is welcome. Key Royale news Beautiful weather produced another full week of golf action at Key Royale Club in Holmes Beach,

. SCUBA INSTRUCTION . SCUBA BOAT CHARTERS . SCUBA AND SNORKEL GEAR RENTAL AND SALES . GUIDED BEACH DIVES

david gryboski of Holmes Beach and atlanta shot schools of mating rays visible from the shoreline Nov. 14. gryboski said the rays were present — minus sharks and swimmers — from 56th Street in Holmes Beach to Bean Point in anna maria. islander courtesy Photo

Anna Maria Island Tides

5352 Gulf Drive Holmes Beach 941 200 0660

. .

Floridaunderwatersports.com

Date

HIGH

LOW

Nov 17 Nov 18 Nov 19 Nov 20 Nov 21 Nov 22 Nov 23 Nov 24

11:31a 12:17p 1:03p 1:49p 2:41p — 12:08a 12:49a

1.7 1.6 1.6 1.5 1.4 — 2.5 2.4

9:59p 10:17p 10:38p 11:03p 11:33p — — —

2.3 2.4 2.5 2.6 2.6 — — —

4:40a 5:15a 5:49a 6:23a 7:00a 7:39a 8:23a 9:12a

0.0 -0.1 -0.2 -0.3 -0.3 -0.3 -0.3 -0.2

LOW

3:56p 1.1 4:13p 1.2 4:27p 1.3 4:40p 1.3 4:52p 1.3 — — — — — —

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

Moon

Full

Nov. 17, 2021 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 21 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Temperature drop results in unpredictable fishing By capt. danny Stasny islander reporter

As the temperatures fell to the mid- to low-60s, fishing turned unpredictable and challenging. With the cold fronts, the water temperatures began dropping, which causes a lull in the action for inshore fishers as the inshore species take a week or two to acclimate to the cooler water before they begin to feed again. And, when they do feed, they may prefer a live offering of shrimp as opposed to a Stasny shiner. Using live shrimp as bait also may present an opportunity to target different species — pompano, sheepshead and black drum. They won’t take a shiner but if you present a lively shrimp, there’s a good chance they’ll have a taste. And don’t think you’re limited to catching those three species. Snook, redfish, trout and even mackerel will eat live shrimp when the water temps cool. And with cooling water temps, you may want to adjust where you fish. Fishing docks and other structures, such as rock piles or seawalls in canals, can be advantageous. As the water temps drop, fish we target will seek the warmest water they can find — water close to a food source. So you’ll see large concentrations of fish in a small area, including creek mouths, back bays and deep holes adjacent to grass flats. So as the water temp changes, we must do the same: Switch tactics and adapt to find success on the water. I’m targeting and catching spotted seatrout on the deeper grass flats with my anglers on Just Reel fishing charters. The fish eat live shiners but only at the warmest parts of the day — the same applies when targeting snook. My charters also are seeing action from ladyfish, mackerel and jack crevalle in the areas where glass minnows or shiners are present. Capt. Jason Stock is finding big tripletail in the Gulf of Mexico for his offshore clients. By investigating floating debris, Stock is finding tripletail up to 15 Liz Kim of Sarasota shows off a nice blackfin tuna she caught Nov. 12 on a fishing trip in the gulf of mexico with capt. david While.

eight-year-old mcKenzie mayer and her dad, reed, visiting the ami area from Washington, d.c., show off a pair of slot-size redfish Nov. 11, both caught using a live pilchard for bait while on a guided fishing trip with capt. david White.

pounds for his anglers to target and casting live shrimp or live shiners results in the bite. Also offshore, Stock is finishing out the American red snapper season with catches up to 21 pounds. Mangrove snapper also are present and are being caught — weighing up to 7 pounds. Stock stays closer to shore and fishes around the offshore reefs west of Anna Maria Island on windier days. While working near shore, he’s putting anglers on keeper-size snook that have taken up residence in the deeper refuges. Capt. David White is adapting to the cooler temperatures by switching to live shrimp as bait. He’s targeting species such as black drum sheepshead and pompano. Fishing along sandy shorelines is producing the pompano action and he’s finding the black drum and sheepshead mixed in during the bite.

On warmer days, White uses live shiners as bait. Fishing the flats of Tampa Bay, he’s hooking into snook and redfish. He’s finding the fish along mangrove shorelines during the higher stages of the tide on any given day. Jim Malfese at the Rod & Reel Pier in Anna Maria says he’s seeing mangrove snapper caught by pier anglers using live shrimp as bait. Redfish, black drum and snook also are eager to eat a live shrimp offering. Sheepshead are present at the pier, although they are far and few between as they await winter to set in. Pier fishers using small jigs are anticipating the pompano to move in but mostly catching ladyfish and jack crevalle, although an occasional pompano is being caught, Malfese reports. Send high-resolution photos and ﬁshing reports to ﬁsh@islander.org.

Obituary

James Patrick O’Neill

James Patrick O’Neill, 76, of Georgia, formerly of Anna Maria Island, died Oct. 30. He was born Aug. 22, 1945. According to Capt. Scott Moore of Holmes Beach, Capt. Jim, as he was known locally, was “one of the best captains o’Neill around the Tampa Bay area and he knew Sarasota Bay better than anybody when it came to catching trout, snook and redfish.” He was much sought-after as a captain in the 1980s. Moore said O’Neill had a unique way of catching fish: “I always knew him on the water by his big straw hat.” All are welcome to attend a celebration of life for Capt. O’Neill at 2 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 20, at Swordfish Grill in Cortez.

Licensed

Page 22 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Nov. 17, 2021 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

isl

biz

By Kane Kaiman

Za, acai, ﬁshing, hiring

The upper crust An Anna Maria pizza place is topping the island online delivery market. As of Nov. 3, Pizza Social AMI, 308 Pine Ave, Anna Maria, was the No. 1 vendor on Island Eats, a food delivery website featuring 10 vendors. The restaurant opened in June 2020 offering made-from-scratch pizzas and salads. In September, Sarasota Magazine Kaiman recognized the establishment as one of the best pizza places in Sarasota and Manatee counties. Owner Andrew Simonetti credits the freshness of the shop’s ingredients and the hands-on management style he and his wife and co-owner, Ammanda, employ for the pizzeria’s overnight success. “My wife and I are always present, especially at the busy times and we treat our staff like family,” Simonetti said Nov. 1. As a boy, Simonetti developed a passion for pizza when his grandfather taught him to make authentic Italian dough and sauce. Pizza Social AMI makes its pies with flour imported from Italy, Wisconsin whole-milk mozzarella cheese with a hint of buffalo milk, hand-crushed tomatoes and traditional pepperoni. For more information, visit the Pizza Social AMI Facebook page or call 941-251-4070. To order online, visit mypizzasocial.com.

BEN AND KAREN COOPER TAXES & ACCOUNTING

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

941-795-4878 Fax kacooper77777@aol.com

Capt. Jason Stock, an 18-year fishing guide operating out of the Bradenton Beach Marina, said he could be adding two boats to his fleet in December. The expansion will come with a name change — Capt. Jason Stock Charters will be rechristened Full Send Fishing Charters. As of Nov. 9, Stock’s flotilla included two offshore boats and one vessel for inshore fishing. He partners with two captains, Tony DeNavarra and Tyler Copeland, and said the expansion of his business will allow him to spend more time with family and meet customer demand. Copeland, a 6-year guide and fourth-generation fisher out of St. Petersburg, joined the team Nov. 1 and will begin running offshore charters on Stock’s 30-foot Conch. Stock began his career as a kayak fishing guide and offers a unique charter in the winter — the Kayak Mother Ship Trip, where the smaller vessels are zipped out to various locations by boat. “I always think a cool angle is to put the kayaks in the boat and make a day of it, bounce from spot to Pizza Social ami owners ammanda and andrew spot. It’s a cool way to get a group together,” he said. Simonetti and their son, Jordan, 3, pose Nov. 3 in For more information, visit captainjasonstock.com the open kitchen at their anna maria restaurant. or call 941-253-6512. Behind the Simonettis is a state-of-the-art rotating Shoes to ﬁll oven that allows customers to watch their pizzas A grab bag of business and government entities are cook. islander Photo: courtesy madison Buchanan hiring on the island and in surrounding areas. Mike Osterman, a 9-year Anna Maria Island Bridge Pick Blueberries bridgetender, said Nov. 4 he put a “help wanted” sign And keep your basket light. in the control room window because two bridgetenders A new Holmes Beach cafe aims to provide healthy recently quit, leaving four employees to cover shifts options for people on the island, especially beachgo- usually divided among six workers. ers. Osterman said the job is low-stress, not labor“Your emotions are linked to your food. If you eat PLeaSe, See biZ, NeXt Page junk food, you feel lazy when you’re on the beach, when you want to be active and feel light,” said Blueberries Cafe and Wine owner Thaina Santinato, an 8-year health coach who opened the eatery with her husband, Sergio, Nov. 6. The breakfast and lunch establishment, 5337 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, offers acai bowls, avocado toast, fresh-squeezed juices, proprietary teas and more. Venezuelan specialties, arepas and empanadas, also are on the menu. Thaina, Sergio and their son moved from Miami to Perico Island in August. While they’d known for years they wanted to open a business on the island, the Venezuelan natives had not found a location until Sergio spotted a “for lease” sign at the AMI Plaza. Prior to opening, the family worked quickly to create a sunny, colorful venue in line with the restaurant’s healthy, island themes. For more information, visit the Blueberries Facebook page or call 786-296-9612. Blueberries cafe and Wine owners thaina and Stocking up Sergio Santinato pause Nov. 9 in their Holmes He’s on his way to becoming a charter admiral. DAILY/WEEKLY/MONTHLY SCHEDULED SERVICE

·S YOUR COMFORT ZONE? WHERE

2ESIDENTIAL #OMMERCIAL 6ACATION (OME #LEANING

Beach eatery. the cafe, which offers acai bowls, fresh-squeezed juice and other healthy options, opened Nov. 6. islander Photo: Kane Kaiman

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

#ALL 6ERUSHKA AT OR E MAIL 6ERUSHKA ALLIN HOME COM WWW ALLIN HOME COM

Same location for 47 years!

XNLV20289

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

5608 MARINA DR., HOLMES BEACH, 34217

(NEXT TO DOMINOS PIZZA) 941-896-7898 • GROOMSAUTO.COM

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

Nov. 17, 2021 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Page 23 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Bridge Street kicks oﬀ holiday Nov. 20

Back and ready to party! “Holidays in Paradise” will begin Saturday, Nov. 20, in Bradenton Beach and continue through Saturday, Dec. 4, encouraging people to shop, dine, play and stay while enjoying the holiday decorations on Bridge Street. Event plans during that period, according to a news release from Bradenton Beach merchants, include “Light up Bradenton Beach” at 3 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 20, with lights visible from Cortez Road to beyond the Historic Bridge Street Pier and an appearance from Mr. and Mrs. Claus. The Claus couple will arrive via golf cart, make their way to a kid’s zone at Island Time, 111 Gulf Drive S., and then on to the pier’s clock tower for photos and to review kids’ wish lists until 5:45 p.m. At 5:30 p.m., the U.S. post office, 116 Bridge St. will host carolers from the Magic of Manatee-Sweet Adelines until the 6 p.m. lighting of a 32-foot-tall Christmas tree.

Also, there will be a screening of “A Christmas Story” in the parking lot, where attendees can BYO blankets and chairs for seating at the show. A week later, Christmas on Bridge Street takes place in conjunction with the annual boat parade. The celebration will begin at 3 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 4, with a kid’s zone that includes face-painting and holiday crafts, a visit by the Anna Maria Island Privateers along with Santa and his sleigh and the Dickens Carolers performing seasonal songs. Also, island troubadour Mike Sales will perform on the pier, where the lighted boat parade will motor for viewers. For the boat parade, decorated vessels will travel along the Intracoastal Waterway from south of the Longboat Pass Bridge to the pier. The parade will begin at 6 p.m. and last an hour, with cash prizes awarded for “best lighting,” “most holiday spirit” and more. Spectators can watch from the Longboat Pass Bridge at 6 p.m. and the Bradenton Beach pier about 6:30-7 p.m. For more information, visit lovebradentonbeach.com or call 941-896-2222. To sign up for the boat parade or learn more, visit boat-parade.com or call 941-778-2288.

Get stuﬀed the easy way

Leave the cooking and cleanup to someone else this Thanksgiving with a reservation or a call to one of these restaurants that are serving or offering takeout holiday fare Nov. 25. ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔

a group of friends take in the full “Kayak mother Ship trip” experience in January 2020. capt. Jason Stock, who offers the charter, said the group caught about 150 fish in the backwaters that day — mostly redfish and trout. islander courtesy Photo

✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔

✔ ✔ ✔

biZ from Page 22

intensive and convenient, and that he couldn’t understand why they resigned. Meanwhile, on the West Manatee Fire Rescue information page on Facebook Nov. 4, WMFR fire inspector Joshua Adkins announced the department had an opening for a full-time firefighter/paramedic and shared a link to the job posting. Also, as of Nov. 9, an electric sign facing the road in the Manatee Public Beach parking lot in Holmes Beach was flashing information about lifeguard job openings. To apply for the bridgetender position, visit www. indeed.com/viewjob?jk=c91d265bb50e7bf3&from=t p-serp&tk=1fk37ik2e3o8i002. To apply for the firefighter position, visit www. nationaltestingnetwork.com/publicsafetyjobs/search. cfm?position=2&state=Florida&new=1. To apply for the lifeguard position, visit www. governmentjobs.com/careers/manateecounty/

a handprinted “Help Wanted” sign appeared in the window of the bridgetender shack on the ami Bridge in late october. islander Photo: Bonner Joy

✔

ami Beach cafe Holmes Beach 941-778-0784 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Bridge tender inn Bradenton Beach 941-778-4849 11:30 a.m.-8 p.m. chateau anna maria Holmes Beach 941-238-6264 Noon-8 p.m. city Pier grill anna maria 941-254-4219 7-10 p.m. compass Hotel Perico island 941-741-9700 Buffet 11-7 p.m. daiquiri deck Bradenton Beach 941-253-3300 11 a.m.-10 p.m. drift in Bradenton Beach 941-778-9088 Potluck/Bring a dish euphemia Haye Longboat Key 941-383-3633 2-8:30 p.m. floridays grill & Bar Perico island 941-741-8700 11 a.m.-10 p.m. gulf drive cafe Bradenton Beach 941-778-1919 7 a.m.-9 p.m. Harry’s continental Kitchens Longboat Key 941-383-0777 1-8 p.m. Special menu Harry’s grill anna maria 941-567-5999 Hours tBd. minnie’s Beach cafe Holmes Beach 941-778-4140 closed but ... offering pre-order dinner pickup on Wednesday Paradise cafe, Bagels Holmes Beach 941-779-1212 family-style dinner Pier 22 Bradenton 941-748-8087 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Swordfish grill & tiki Bar cortez 941-798-2035 11 a.m.-10 p.m. the Lazy Lobster Longboat Key 941-383-0440 Noon-8 p.m.

Restaurants that wish to be added to this list should contact Islander reporter Kane Kaiman at kanekaiman@gmail.com or 414-378-3909 by Nov. 19..

BizCal

coMPiled BY Kane KaiMan

AMI Chamber THIS WEEK

Wednesday, Nov. 17 5-7 p.m. — Business card exchange, Your CBD Store, 6676 Cortez Road W., Bradenton. Friday, Nov. 19 6-10 p.m. — Member gala and small business of the year jobs/3076743/beach-lifeguard-i-or-ii-doq?keywords awards, IMG Golf Academy, 4350 El Conquistador Parkway, Bra=life&pagetype=jobOpportunitiesJobs. denton. Save the date And as always… Dec. 3, tree lighting and holiday open house, Holmes Beach. …Got biz news? Contact Kane Kaiman at kane@ Fees may apply for events. islander.org or call The Islander ofﬁce at 941-778RSVP for the networking events by contacting the chamber at 7978. 941-778-1541 or info@amichamber.org.

Under

3 Days n i t c Contra Chantelle Lewin Broker Associate Licensed since 1983

2BR/2BA with carport. Water views. 941.713.1449 Beautifully appointed, Won’t last ... Westbay Point and Moorings $559,900

WWW.CHANTELLELEWIN.COM

Page 24 THE ISLANDER | islander.org Nov. 17, 2021 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

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

FREEBIE ITEMS FOR SALE

BOATS & BOATING

StacKaBLe frigidaire WaSHer and dryer. from Seaside condo. $100 each. 941778-5542 or 941-778-3920.

iNdividuaLS maY PLace one free ad with up to three items, each priced $100 or less, 15 words or less. free, one week, must be submitted online. email classifieds@islander. org, fax toll-free 1-866-362-9821. (limited time offer)

for SaLe: tWo 14-foot old town kayaks, complete with light weight Kevlar paddles. Kayak trailer, fold-up hand cart (fits in bow). Special life jackets, seat covers etc. $800 firm (cash only). Located in cortez. 804-2412537, texting preferred.

cHaNdeLier: BroWN metaL with bulbs, hardware, $40. two stainless steel bar stools, leather seat, $40, dell keyboards, $10. 941-920-2494. aNtiQue BaBY carriage: Wood and wicker. Proceeds benefit moonracer animal rescue. email for photos: moonraceranimalrescue@gmail.com. aNtiQue PartNer deSK: all wood, $500. inquire at the islander office, 315 58th St. Suite J, Holmes Beach. 941-778-7978. aNtiQue office cHairS: Perfect for eclectic dining set. circa 1950 from anna maria city Hall. inquire at the islander newspaper, 315 58th St. Suite J, Holmes Beach. 941-778-7978.

Sandy’s Lawn Service Inc. ESTABLISHED IN 1983

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

Paradise Improvements

941.792.5600

Kitchen and Bath Remodeling Specialist Replacement Doors and Windows

Andrew Chennault

FULLY LICENSED AND INSURED Island References Lic#CBC056755 CBC 1253471

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

References available • 941-720-7519

AdoptA-Pet

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Part time: mecHaNicaL/electrical engineer. any experience with robotics integration. focus on manufacturing automation. 218-205-0911.

WaNted: Your oLd cellphone for recycling. deliver to the islander, 315 58th St. Suite J, Holmes Beach.

SmuggLerS cove/guLf Stream Beach resort in need of front desk person 8 a.m.4 p.m. Saturdays and 9 a.m.- 3 p.m. every other Sunday. Please, call 941-778-6667.

free guN LocK courtesy of Project childsafe, florida fish and Wildlife conservation commission and Holmes Beach Police department. Pick up at the islander office, 315 58th St. Suite J, Holmes Beach. don’t be sorry, be safe. ESTATE SALES eState SaLe: 9:30 a.m.-2 p.m. friday, Nov. 19, and 9:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 20. 303 58th St., Holmes Beach. (Park on one side of street, all wheels on pavement. You must wear a mask.) Pair concrete urns, decorative wrought-iron beach screen gate and accessories, lanterns, oriental rugs, beach tent, dining room table and six chairs, two chests, featherweight sewing machine, glass-top credenza, nice oriental cabinet, rattan dinette, salt and pepper set, flatware, Hummels, tvs, wall unit, chandelier, king, queen and double beds, desks, english marble-top table, hall tree, decorative accessories, kitchenware, linens, china, glass and bric-a-brac. Sale conducted by Palma Sola Sales. Numbers given out at 8 a.m. PETS

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

HELP WANTED

WaNted: WorKout dvds and retired but working XBox, Wii units with games for ministry of Presence for kids and teens in Haiti. deliver to the islander, 315 58th St. Suite J, Holmes Beach.

HeLP reScued PetS! volunteer, foster, computer help needed! moonracer animal rescue. email: moonraceranimalrescue@ gmail.com. BOATS & BOATING 13-foot diNgHY sailboat, needs mast, $50. 813-463-6770. for SaLe: BraNd new complete set of white/navy blue pontoon vinyl seats. Located in cortez. $200. Phone, 804-241-2537. SmS only.

NoW HiriNg: eXPerieNced LaNdScaPe LaBorer. Starting at $15. Quick raises and bonuses. contact drew, 803-807-0653. maiNteNaNce PerSoN for vacation property on anna maria. Part-time, twoto-three Saturdays per month for four to six hours. Job includes repairing bicycles, kayaks, SuPS, cleaning, painting, yard work, ac filters, pressure washing. requires experience, vehicle and tools. contact darryl, 813-439-0516. 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 dePeNdaBLe, reSPoNSiBLe, fuN babysitter for hire. 13 years old, island local. available in June. 941-526-9090. KidS for Hire ads are free for up to three weeks for island youths under 16 looking for work. ads must be placed in person at the islander office, 315 58th St. Suite J, Holmes Beach. HEALTH CARE good grief: eXPerieNced Licensed clinical Social Worker (LcSW) providing help for individuals and families working through end-of-life issues. also offering assistance crafting your advance care directive. call or email dawn, 207-615- 5876. goodgrief. dawn@gmail.com. LooKiNg for aN earLY Bird? You can read Wednesday’s classifieds on tuesday at islander.org. and it’s free!