The Islander Newspaper E-Edition: Wednesday, Nov. 30, 2022

THANKFUL

AME assailant pleads no contest to felony charge

By ryan Paice Islander reporter

One of two men arrested in an island assault won’t fight the case against him.

Court-appointed attorney Lisa Janes pleaded nolo contendere Nov. 9 on behalf of Sarasota-resident Cameron Evans, 19, to a second-degree felony charge for aggravated battery resulting in great bodily harm.

Nolo contendere, or no contest, indicates a defendant agrees to accept punishment despite not accepting or denying responsibility for the act leading to a criminal charge. Court action on the plea is pending.

The plea is a reversal for Evans, who pleaded not guilty to the charge in April and reiterated the plea in October.

The charge stems from a March 23 beating outside Anna Maria Elementary, 4700 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, that sent islander Evan Purcell, 41, to the hospital with serious injuries.

Purcell was walking his dog with his 10-year-old niece when he saw a group of young adults and teenagers possibly vandalizing the facility, according to a Holmes Beach Police Department report.

When Purcell asked the group to leave school grounds, they became aggressive and confronted him. He drew a pocketknife and the group beat him to the point of unconsciousness, police said.

Island workers lose

to Bradenton home fire

By ryan Paice Islander reporter

The holiday season got off to a tragic start for one local family with island ties.

A Nov. 21 structure fire at 7103 Ninth Ave. NW, Bradenton, the home of Minnie’s Beach Cafe employees Chuck and wife Kaylee Smith, resulted in extensive structural damage and the death of their dog, Ellie.

Kaylee Smith, who called the night “possibly … the worst night of my life,” wrote in a Nov. 22 Facebook post that she had been grocery shopping with her son, Weston, 12, when she heard about the fire.

By the time she returned to her house, someone had called 911 and she found her husband outside with neighbors, but Ellie could not be found.

West Manatee Fire Rescue crews began arriving to the property around 6:37 p.m., as the fire was roaring from the garage and an exterior door, according to a Nov. 21 report.

or at least that’s who they said they were on first meeting at the roser memorial community church Thanksgiving dinner — came from Tampa and discovered the community dinner and pitched in with aprons and seasonal attire, while husbands/dads remained home to monitor their own turkey in the oven. vacationers Stella, 8, Skyler, 10, and mom, Lauren coup, came to dinner ready to serve with addison and mom mary Brown. more pics, page 12. Islander Photo: Bonner Joy

‘everything’

Wmfr firefighter max Pollock fights back flames Nov. 21 on a structure fire at the west Bradenton home of two island workers. Islander

Photo: courtesy deanna Bouwer-Secret

minnie’s cafe waitress Kaylee Smith cuddles her pet ellie. The dog died due to the fire.

Islander Photos: Kaylee Smith

caution tape cordons off the fire-damaged home.

WMFR deployed water hoses by 6:39 p.m. and extinguished the fire by 7:04 p.m. but didn’t clear the property until 9 p.m.

Also, Bradenton Fire Department units arrived and searched the building. They found Ellie but attempts to revive the dog were unsuccessful.

“I think I am still in shock over the house but my heart is just completely shattered over my precious baby girl,” Kaylee Smith wrote. “She was my every thing, my beautiful baby and I loved her with every thing I had.”

“I will say I appreciate (the firefighters). They stayed with my baby the whole time trying everything they could to save her,” she added.

The property suffered severe fire and smoke damage and was red-tagged by the city of Bradenton for being unsafe to inhabit.

The Manatee County building department and local Red Cross were notified to assist the Smiths with temporary housing.

Kaylee Smith wrote in a Nov. 27 message to The Islander that they were staying with her aunt, Mary Doub, and her wife, Kathy Smart, co-owners of Min nie’s.

Smith said the house was passed to Chuck and his siblings when their father died. The couple moved into the home some time ago and had just finished paying off the mortgage in April, but she did not know if it was insured since Chuck’s sister had recently become the estate executor.

WMFR confirmed Nov. 28 the dryer, located in

the garage, was the source of the fire.

An early report noted the district’s investigation found no human factors contributing to the ignition.

Community responds

Smart launched a GoFundMe Nov. 22 to drum up support for the Smiths, named “Family Lost All to Devastating House Fire!”

The Smiths have both worked at Minnie’s for decades, with Chuck and Kaylee currently working as kitchen manager and waitress, respectively.

Chuck is the longest-serving employee at the res taurant, where he’s worked 31 years.

Kaylee isn’t far behind, having worked on and off at the restaurant for 21 years.

The fundraiser began with a $20,000 goal and had raised $39,125 with 197 donations through Nov. 27, according to gofundme.com.

“We have been enjoying Saturday breakfasts at Minnie’s since buying our little beach house on the island 20 years ago. … Our own hearts broke when we

SUNSET CRUISES

chuck, son Weston and wife Kaylee Smith keep their spirits up at the home of Kathy Smart and mary doub, owners of minnie’s Beach cafe, where chuck has been a cook for nearly 30 years and Kaylee a long-time waitress. With help from family — Kaylee is mary’s niece — and friends, the Smiths found a suitable rental and now face prepar ing for christmas while rebuilding their home and personal lives.

Islander Photo: Kathy Smart

read Kathy’s story of what happened to Kaylee, Chuck and little Weston this week. Please, add our prayers and support to this wonderful outpouring of concern for some wonderful people,” GoFundMe users Jan and Dan Hazewski wrote Nov. 23, along with posting a donation.

Maureen and Clark Schroeder wrote with their Nov. 23 GoFundMe donation: “We feel terrible hear ing about this horrific fire. Kaylee is always so friendly when we come into Minnie’s on our trips from Chi cago. We hope this helps a little. Sending prayers to her and her family.”

“We visit Anna Maria every January and we know what good people these are and we wanted to help in some way,” donor Pamela Reddick wrote.

Kaylee Smith, on Facebook, expressed her appre ciation for the outpouring of support.

“Thank you again for all the messages, texts, dona tions! Gosh, the donations, I know you all care and love us but I can never express my appreciation for you guys!” she said.

Center launches seasonal $100K fundraiser, plans fun day

It’s jingle-jangle time at the Center of Anna Maria Island.

A holiday fundraising campaign might be the first step in turning around the Center of Anna Maria Island’s recent financial struggles.

The community center Nov. 21 launched its “Campaign to Sustain 1.0” having already raised $9,671 toward a $50,000 matching challenge, development director Jim McDaniel stated in an email.

The nonprofit’s annual campaign features a handful of local donors ready to match up to $50,000 in donations, including the Drigan Silver Lining Foundation, Bob and Carol Carter, Paul and Amy Gordon, Caroline and Brian Leibfried, as well as Elizabeth Moore.

After factoring in matches for 15 donations through Nov. 21, the center raised $19,342 toward a $100,000 total goal.

Last year, the nonprofit’s annual campaign raised $240,692 in response to a $50,000 matching challenge that was reached early and added onto multiple times

Purcell’s niece ran to a nearby residence and called 911 during the assault.

Holmes Beach police and then emergency medical services found and treated Purcell and transported him to the HCA Florida Blake Hospital in Bradenton.

The HBPD identifi ed Evans, Palmetto resident John Bartholow, 17, and an unnamed juvenile as suspects connected to the incident using video footage from the scene and witness testimony.

All three were arrested within a month.

The unnamed juvenile was returned to their family while Bartholow and Evans were placed in custody at the Manatee County jail under $50,000 bonds and charged with second-degree felonies.

Evans has been in jail since April 14 and the court denied multiple motions to reduce his bond.

A hearing to discuss Evans’ sentence will be at 8:30 a.m. Thursday, Feb. 16, at the Manatee County

before ending in January.

Joey and chuck Lester attend a Lester family fun day at the center of anna maria Island. This year’s event will be dec. 3. Islander file Photo

Such a campaign could reverse the center’s $222,187.32 deficit through September, three months into its fiscal year.

Judicial Center, 1041 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton.

Bartholow posted his $50,000 bond April 21 and was released into the Manatee County Probation Department’s pretrial services program.

However, Bartholow was arrested for contempt of court in September for violating the program by resisting/obstructing a law enforcement officer without violence.

Bartholow has remained in jail under a new $50,000 bond since Sept. 21 and Judge Stephen Whyte of the 12th Judicial District Court Nov. 12 denied a motion to reduce the bond amount.

A case management hearing for Bartholow’s case will be at 9 a.m. Wednesday, Dec. 14, at the Manatee County Judicial Center.

Clough and Bartholow’s Bradenton-based attorney, Jon Weiffenbach, has not responded to The Islander’s inquiries about the case.

The fundraising campaign will end Friday, Jan. 13, 2023.

Meanwhile, the center is preparing to host another seasonal tradition: Lester Family Fun Day, which will take place 10:30 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 3.

The 20th annual fun day is sponsored each year by islanders-Wisconsinites Chuck and Joey Lester and includes visits with Santa, performances by the Manatee High School Drum Line and DJ Freeze, a poinsettia sale, pony rides, face-painting, games and crafts, lunch, raffles for turkeys and other prizes and a 50/50 golf ball drop, where the closest ball to a hole wins half the pot.

The 50/50 raffle tickets are on sale at the center, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria. Tickets — for numbered golf balls — are $50 each or three for $100.

More information about the fundraising campaign and fun day can be found at the center’s website, centerami.org, or call the center at 941-778-1908.

— ryan Paice and Lisa Neff

Q&A 113022

Last week’s question

By Lisa Neff

It’s nearly the 12th month of 2022! Do you need a 2023 calendar?

60%. Yes, must have a wall calendar.

25%. Yes, still love desk calendars.

15%. No, gone digital.

0%. Don’t use a calendar.

This week’s question

My favorite winter holiday event on AMI …

A. Anna Maria Island Privateers Christmas Parade.

B. Bradenton Beach’s lighted boat parade.

C. Lester Family Fun Day at the center.

D. Holiday walks in the cities.

To answer the poll, go online to islander.org.

AMe

from

Bradenton Beach commissioners to serve 4th terms

Bradenton Beach commissioner ralph cole, Ward 3, is sworn Nov. 21 into a new twoyear term by city clerk Terri Sanclemente at city hall. cole is serving his fourth term. He was returned to office Nov. 8 with no opposition.

Islander Photos: robert anderson

commissioner marilyn maro, Ward 2, takes the oath of office Nov. 21 for her fourth consecutive term. city clerk Terri Sanclemente administered the oath at city hall. voters elected Nov. 8 to eliminate term limits in the city charter, allowing maro to serve another term. She was unopposed for the office.

Meetings

Anna Maria City

Dec. 15, 2 p.m., commission.

By Lisa Neff

Anna Maria City Hall, 10005 Gulf Drive, 941-7086130, cityofannamaria.com.

Bradenton Beach

Dec. 1, 6 p.m., commission.

Dec. 7, 9:30 a.m., CRA. Dec. 7, 2 p.m., ScenicWAVES. Dec. 15, noon, commission.

Dec. 21, 1 p.m., P&Z.

Bradenton Beach City Hall, 107 Gulf Drive N., 941-778-1005, cityofbradentonbeach.com.

Holmes Beach

Dec. 7, 10 a.m., parks and beautification.

Dec. 7, 5 p.m., planning.

Dec. 13, 5 p.m., commission.

Dec. 14, 9 a.m., clean water.

Holmes Beach City Hall, 5801 Marina Drive, 941708-5800, holmesbeachfl.org.

Manatee County

Dec. 6, 8:30 a.m., commission.

Dec. 12, 9 a.m., tourist development council.

Dec. 13, 9 a.m., commission.

Dec. 15, 9 a.m., commission (land use).

County administration building, 1112 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton, 941-748-4501, mymanatee.org.

Also of interest

Dec. 25, Christmas. Many government offices will be closed Dec. 23-26.

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

HB mayor assigns commission’s liaison roles

Holmes Beach Mayor Judy Titsworth unveiled liaison roles Nov. 15 for city commissioners, including for two newcomers at the dais.

The assignments include:

• Commission Chair Carol Soustek: code enforcement, Grassy Point Preserve, planning commission, recreation, beautification and parks;

• Commission Vice-Chair Terry Schaefer: Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce, Anna Maria Elementary, Clean Water Committee, state legislation, ManaSota League of Cities, police pension board;

• Commissioner Dan Diggins: Island Transportation Planning Organization, Manatee County Council of Governments, Manatee County Emergency Opera-

tions Center alternate liaison;

• Commissioner Greg Kerchner: Barrier Island Elected Officials, state legislation alternate liaison, the Center of Anna Maria Island, Manatee County Tourist Development Council;

• Commissioner Pat Morton: buildings and grounds, roads, bridges, drainage, canals and erosion, Manatee County emergency operations center, recycling and waste.

The commission will meet next at 5 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 13, at city hall, 5801 Marina Drive.

Directions to attend the meeting will be available on the city’s website, holmesbeachfl.org.

— ryan Paice

ralph cole holds a christmas gnome rather than a traditional bouquet of flowers from the city. cole told The Islander he wants to see the undergrounding of utilities finished during his new term.

LefT: commissioner marilyn maro receives a bouquet of flowers after being sworn into office by city clerk Terri Sanclemente.

The 2022-23 Holmes Beach commissioners and mayor, from left, carol Soustek, Pat morton, dan diggins, mayor Judy Titsworth, greg Kerchner and Terry Schaefer.

Islander Photo: ryan Paice

Lookout AMI, here it comes

You’d wear out the abacus if your tried to count the seasons on Anna Maria Island.

Turtle season, hurricane season, tourist season, snowbird season, shorebird season, holiday season, summer season, stone crab season, mullet season (coming soon), parade season (consult the Privateers for this one) and we have sports seasons — basketball, soccer, football, golf, horseshoes and, newer to the list, pickleball and corn hole.

To everything, there is a season.

Right now, we’re in the midst of shopping season and, on AMI, that means shopping small all year, but especially now for the holidays.

I often recall telling my kids when they were young, when it was fun for them to ride the bus — out of parents’ reach to town to walk the mall — don’t shop for me or anyone else at the mall. The mall does not have what we want.

In those days, I encouraged them to visit the Sterling Anvil and a handmade shop near the IGA or the hardware store in Bradenton Beach— more like a variety store — chock full of goodies and oddities.

Those stores don’t exist now but other locally owned mom-and-pop run shops do. Just look around in the island cities for the “right stuff.”

Terra, who spent many years at the Sterling Anvil before it closed, has a shop bearing her name in Bradenton, with quality handmade jewelry and gifts.

The Sand Dollar gift shop is new again, with new owners — descendants of the 1950s original owner.

Pine Avenue and Bridge Street are lined with “small” shops. Don’t miss Island Cabana, where you’ll find Lily Pulitzer! It’s the “Pulitzer prize winner” of Florida fashion! Q’s Boutique! Sun N Surf!

You might think you missed Emerson Quillin’s signature store on Pine but just peek in the Holmes Beach post office, where Quillin has set up shop, offering his unique style of humor on everything from dogpoop bags to colorful tumblers and T-shirts.

And since I mentioned mullet season, keep an eye on the water for the fishers in their utility boats and on the bridges, casting nets and hauling in mullet to smoke, fry or sell at local markets. It’s a winter season treat — especially hot off the smoker.

There’s also a giving season. We featured local nonprofit needs in our special Wish Book in the Nov.. 23 edition and online. They deserve your support.

As for the holiday season, get ready for the best parade of the year. The Dec. 10 Privateers Christmas parade and kids party. Got beads?

— Bonner Joy, news@islander.org

Small change

I was aghast at the recent letter you published (The Islander, Nov. 23) that complained how the only large supermarket on the island was seemingly ripping people off for a packet of matches by charging $1.29 while in Colonial Beach, Virginia, the same packet was $1.

Let’s consider that up to May — according to thehill.com — fuel oil went up by 106.7%, airline fares up 37.8%, public transportation up 26.3%.

So unless the aggrieved walked or cycled the 913 miles to reach the island, the extra 29 cents paid for the matches seems small change.

Waima Toko, Bradenton Beach

Editor’s note: The previous letter writer, Rod Rudick, was focused on corporate greed.

Skimming online

Connections, AMI & beyond

Anna Maria: Mayor Dan Murphy, 941-708-6130, cityofannamaria.com, ammayor@cityofannamaria. com.

Bradenton Beach: Mayor John Chappie, 941-7781005, cityofbradentonbeach.org, mayor@cityofbradentonbeach.com.

Holmes Beach: Mayor Judy Titsworth, 941-7085800, holmesbeachfl.org, hbmayor@holmesbeachfl.org.

Manatee County: Commissioner Kevin Van Ostenbridge, 941-745-3705, kevin.vanostenbridge@ mymanatee.org.

Governor: Ron DeSantis, 850-717-9337, fl gov. com.

Florida Senate: Jim Boyd, 941-742-6445, flsenate. gov.

Florida House: State Rep. William Cloud “Will” Robinson, District 71, 941-708-4968, myfloridahouse. gov.

‘Residence or retreat’ a postcard shows the Imperial House in Bradenton Beach in the early 1970s. The card reads, “for sale or rent, 1&2 bedroom luxurious-designed all-electric apartments, each with own terrace, having scenic views from Sarasota Bay to a beautiful private beach on the gulf of mexico.”

Islander Photos: courtesy of manatee county Public Library Historical digital collections

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 it’s all maintained on the library site, searchable by key word, name or date. Look for The Islander in the UofF Florida digital newspaper collection at ufdc.ufl.edu.

‘Villa Apartments’ with views a postcard shows the Bay view villa apartments in Bradenton Beach in the mid-1950s. The card reads, “on Sarasota Bay, Bay view villa apts., 110 Ninth St. S., Bradenton Beach, fla. … close to good Beaches; Three free fishing piers; florida’s finest fishing. Shuffle Board court; close to area attractions Near Braden-

10&20 years ago

From the Nov. 27, 2002, issue

• The Florida Department of Transportation held a public meeting on AMI to announce plans to spend $7.2 million to rehab the Anna Maria Island Bridge rather than proceed with a replacement bridge. Officials said the rehab would extend the life of the bridge to 2022.

• Islanders complained to Manatee County’s community services director that the fare-free trolleys on AMI’s main roads were too loud and operated too early and too late.

• Holmes Beach Commissioner Don Maloney said the island was losing its residential population due to investors buying up single-family homes and condominiums for vacation rentals.

From the Nov. 28, 2012, issue

• A proposal to bring a water taxi for visitors from downtown Bradenton to offload at the Anna Maria City Pier was rejected by the pier’s leaseholder.

• Anna Maria commissioners deadlocked 2-2 on naming a replacement to succeed Commissioner SueLynn, who was chosen by the board to serve as mayor when no one ran for the office in the 2012 election.

• Holmes Beach commissioners scheduled work sessions to discuss hiring a new building official and possibly enacting a building moratorium.

• A new biography of the late Gov. Lawton Chiles, who had ties to AMI and still has family residing on AMI, was released with authorization from the Florida Historical Society. Author John Dos Passos Coggin wrote “Walkin’ Lawton.”

— Lisa Neff

Anna Maria Island observes a lot more than 12 days of Christmas.

The Nov. 19 lighting of a 40-foot Christmas tree in Bradenton Beach’s commercial district ushered in “Holidays in Paradise.”

And while that’s the official name of the Bridge Street Merchant’s celebration that continues through December, the moniker applies islandwide, as Holmes Beach and Anna Maria also are ringing in the season with festivities.

Additional celebrations are taking place nearby in Bradenton and Cortez.

Take a look:

• Holiday Walk and Tree Lighting: 5-8 p.m. Friday, Dec. 2, Gulf and Marina drives, Holmes Beach.

The evening includes extended shopping hours in “downtown” Holmes Beach, holiday music by the CrossPointe Fellowship Family, visits by Santa and the Anna Maria Island Privateers, refreshments, a Toys for Tots open house at A Paradise Realty and the lighting of the Christmas tree at 6 p.m. outside the Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce, 5313 Gulf Drive.

For more information, call the chamber at 941778-1541.

• Lester Family Fun Day: 10:30 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 3, at the Center of Anna Maria Island, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria.

The center offers a lineup of activities, performances by the Manatee High School Drumline, lunch, raffles for turkeys and other prizes, a visit from Santa, pony rides and a 50/50 golf ball drop at 2 p.m.

This will be the 20th annual fun day, which is sponsored by Chuck and Joey Lester — islanders and Wisconsinites.

For more information, call the center at 941-7781908.

• Fourth annual Bradenton Beach Holiday Faire and Boat Parade: 3-9 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 3, Bridge Street, Bradenton Beach.

The city will close Bridge Street to traffic for a street party and celebration, including a visit from Santa, crafts and entertainment. The boat parade will begin at 6 p.m. in the Intracoastal Waterway, with the best parade viewing at Longboat Pass Bridge, near the start, and the Historic Bridge Street Pier, closer to the end of the parade and where emcee Mike Sales will be stationed.

Registration for entries is at www.boat-parade. com.

For more information, call 941-896-2222.

• Mistletoe Market Holiday Art and Craft Show: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday-Sunday, Dec. 3-4, city field,

5800 block of Marina Drive, Holmes Beach.

Organizers are collecting donations for the Roser Food Pantry and hosting arts and crafts vendors.

For more information, call 231-350-8277.

• Holiday Walk of Treasures/Santa Stops Here: 4-8 p.m. Friday, Dec. 9, Gulf Drive and Pine Avenue, Anna Maria.

The evening includes extended shopping hours at businesses, as well as holiday carols in City Pier Park, 103 N. Bay Blvd., and festivities at the Anna Maria Island Historical Society museum, 402 Pine Ave. Santa Stops Here is 4-5:30 p.m., when Santa will have goodie bags for kids. The open houses, with businesses offering refreshments and entertainment, are 5-8 p.m.

For more info, call the city at 941-708-6130.

• A Night Before Christmas: 5:30-8 p.m. Friday, Dec. 9, G.T. Bray Park, 5502 33rd Ave. Drive W., Bradenton.

The evening includes visits with Mr. and Mrs. Claus, children’s games, a movie screening and foodtruck vending.

For more information, call 941-748-4501.

• Anna Maria Island Privateers Christmas Parade: 10 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 10.

The Privateers continue a holiday tradition, with the parade beginning at Coquina Beach in Bradenton Beach and traveling on Gulf Drive to Pine Avenue, then east on Pine to Bay Boulevard.

A party in the park with Santa visits follows the parade. The party will be at city field in the 5800 block of Marina Drive in Holmes Beach.

For more information, contact AMIP president

Tiki & Kitty’s

Tiki and Kitty are out there shopping the holiday deals — and only four weeks to Christmas! They’re on the lookout for holiday hostess gifts at their favorite thrifts and boutiques.

Cat’s Meow has 7,700 square feet of vintage, unique and repurposed items. You may want to lace up your skates, as this large vintage skating rink has plenty to offer bargain, antique, unique hunters. Plus, there’s a mancave and a cool clothing boutique. You don’t want to miss this vast collection of vendors.

garden features, candles, jewelry and work by local artisans. They also offer Dixie Belle paints.

Blessed and Distressed is a tastefully designed store — so inviting, you’ll want to stay and visit — filled with collectibles and work by local artists. The store is at Palma Sola Square, around the corner from Winn-Dixie. It offers 30-plus vintage, upcycled, shabby chic and artsy vendors. You won’t be disappointed.

Scavengers Marketplace regrets the store in Holmes Beach closed. Please visit the Palmetto store, 2100 U.S. 301, where a portion of your purchase benefits Moonracer No Kill Pet Rescue — our favorite pet rescue group. Founder Lisa Williams leads the rescue efforts and also works at The Islander as office manager.

Your place for fun, funky quirky!

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

People gather for the lighting of the 2021 holiday tree outside the chamber in Holmes Beach.

dec. 2, during the holiday walk and open houses at gulf and marina drive businesses. Islander

Kim Boyd at 931-639-0986 or president@amiprivateers.org.

To enter the parade, go to amiprivateers.org.

• Christmas in Cortez: 1-2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 10, Florida Maritime Museum, 4415 119th St. W., Cortez.

The afternoon will offer “a merry time at the maritime,” including crafts, games, a meet-and-greet with Santa and food sales.

For more, call the museum at 941-708-6120.

• Winter Nights Under the Lights: 6-9 p.m. Thursday-Sunday, Dec. 15-18, Palma Sola Botanical Park, 9800 17th Ave. NW, Bradenton.

The evenings include visits with Santa, bakery and hot beverage concessions and walks through the decorated park.

For more information, call the park at 941-7612866.

• Christmas on Bridge Street: 3-9 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 17, Bridge Street, Bradenton Beach.

The evening includes children’s activities, visits with Santa, musical entertainment, extended shop hours and an outdoor movie with concessions.

For more information, call 941-896-2222.

• Anna Island Privateers Christmas at the Drift In: 6-10 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 17, Drift In, 120 Bridge St., Bradenton Beach.

The evening includes visits by Santa in his sleigh, musical entertainment, raffles and a “taste of the island buffet.”

Editor’s note: For more seasonal events, turn to “Gathering,” The Islander’s religion page.

Wed-Sat 10-5

Palma Sola Square Winn Dixie Plaza 615 59th St. W. Bradenton 941-896-8800

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

This

year’s lighting will be at 6 p.m. friday,

file Photo: ryan Paice

2021 downtown Holmes Beach holiday tree-lighting

Boat parade will put sparkle in

By robert anderson Islander reporter

Santa might stand at the bow of one boat.

And at least 20 other vessels in the 4th Annual Bradenton Beach Lighted Boat Parade set for 6 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 3, will be decked out in festive flair.

Mike Bazzy, owner of Bradenton Beach Marina, is coordinating the event, part of Bradenton Beach’s “Holidays in Paradise” celebration on and around Bridge Street.

He proposed a lighted boat parade in 2018 after a bad summer of red tide had made boating nearly impossible during most of the warmest months of the year.

“All of the businesses that were based around the water had been suffering,” Bazzy told The Islander in a Nov. 21 interview. “I wanted to kind of do something that would show the community that it was still a good time to still be boating and a good time to come out to the water. A good time to come to the beaches. The red tide had passed.”

Bazzy’s family has roots in the island community, having bought what would become the Bradenton Beach Marina in 1981.

“We’ve been a family-owned business since 1982,” he said. “It’s been 40 years. I grew up in the business, working here in the summers during high school and college and then came back to manage the marina full time in July of 1996.”

“We ended up with 12 boats the first year,” Bazzy said of the 2018 parade. “It was kind of a surprise success.”

The second year, with support from the city commission and more involvement on Bridge Street, the parade grew.

Then, like a lot of island events, the parade was canceled in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The parade returned with gusto in 2021.

in Paradise’

“Last year, we had 22 boats in the parade, which was a huge success,” Bazzy said.

Bazzy expects more than 20 boats this year.

The boat parade will begin just south of Jewfish Key at Longboat Pass and make its way to the Bradenton Beach Marina.

Parties who wish to enter a vessel into the parade can find more information online at boat-parade. com.

The parade is free to enter and contestants can win one of two $200 cash prizes given away for best lighted vessel and one for most enthusiastic vessel.

“If you’re a boat owner and you want to express

your holiday spirit, decorate your boat and come out and enter into the parade,” Bazzy said. “Join us, it’s a lot of fun. You’ll be glad you did.”

Viewers are encouraged to assemble on the Historic Bridge Street Pier, where they will hear announcements about each boat’s captain and crew, as well as the theme for decorations.

The parade will run simultaneously with a familyoriented Bridge Street party beginning at 3 p.m.

The city is closing Bridge Street to vehicle traffic and the commission voted to waive open container rules for adult beverages.

Entertainment also is planned.

For more information, call 941-896-2222.

Improve your odds of success and reach The Islander’s readers — residents, seasonal visitors and vacationers — looking to shop and dine, as well as indoor and outdoor fun. For advertising info, call or text 941-778-7978.

The No. 12 boat in the 2021 Bradenton Beach Holiday Boat Parade displays an illuminated Santa and reindeer, as well as a lighted american flag. Islander Photo: courtesy John Igras

2021 Bradenton Beach Holiday Boat Parade

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

ONGOING ON AMI

Throughout November, artist Marg Williamson’s “Venues Remembered” exhibit, Island Gallery West, 5368 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: islandgallerywest.com, 941-778-6648.

Through Dec. 31, Artists’ Guild Gallery Hand-Made Holiday Ornaments exhibit and sale, 5414 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6694.

Tuesdays through May 9, 8:30 a.m.-2 p.m., Anna Maria Farmers Market, City Pier Park, North Bay Boulevard and Pine Avenue, Anna Maria. Information: 941-708-6130.

Tuesdays through March 7, 6:30 p.m., Anna Maria Movies in the Park, City Pier Park, North Bay Boulevard and Pine Avenue, Anna Maria. Information: 941-708-6130.

ONGOING AROUND AMI

Through Jan. 15, 2023, “Multiple: Prince Twins Seventh-Seven” exhibit Museum of Fine Arts, 255 Beach Drive NE, St. Petersburg. Fee applies. Information: 941-896-2667, mfastpete.org.

Through March 26, 2023, “True Nature: Rodin and the Age of Impressionism” exhibit Museum of Fine Arts, 255 Beach Drive NE, St. Petersburg. Fee applies. Information: 941-896-2667, mfastpete. org.

Through May 28, 2023, “Gods and Lovers: Painting and Sculpture from India,” the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, 5401 Bay Shore Road, Sarasota. Fee applies. Information: 941-360-7390, ringling.org.

Through May 2023, 9 a.m-2 p.m., Downtown Bradenton Public Market, Old Main Street, Bradenton. Information: 941-932-9439.

First Fridays, 6-9:30 p.m., Village of the Arts First Fridays Artwalk, 12th Street West and 12th Avenue West, Bradenton. Information: villageofthearts.com

Second and fourth Saturdays, 2-4 p.m., Music on the Porch jam session, presented by the Florida Maritime Museum and Cortez Cultural Center, outdoors, 4415 119th St. W., Cortez. Information: floridamaritimemuseum.org, fmminfo@manateeclerk.com.

“Caught in the Storm: 100 Years of Florida Hurricanes” exhibit,

Island happenings

‘Showman’ to show Dec. 6

Anna Maria continues its Tuesday night movies in the park with a screening Dec. 6 of “The Greatest Showman.”

The 2017 musical stars Hugh Jackman as P.T. Barnum, as well as Michelle Williams, Zac Efron and Zendaya.

About the film, IMDB says: “Celebrates the birth of show business and tells of a visionary who rose from nothing to create a spectacle that became

Florida Maritime Museum, 4415 119th St. W., Cortez. Information: floridamaritimemuseum.org.

SAVE THE DATE

Dec. 3-4, Mistletoe Market and Holiday Art and Craft Show, Holmes Beach.

Dec. 10, Bradenton Gulf Islands Concert Series at the Center of Anna Maria Island presents “Beatlemania Now!,” Anna Maria. Dec. 31, Realize Bradenton’s Main Street Live/New Year’s Eve Extravaganza, Bradenton.

KIDS & FAMILY

ON AMI

Thursday, Dec. 1

6 p.m. — Teen Yoga, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Reservations required. Information: mymanatee.org/library, 941-778-6341.

Friday, Dec. 2

10 a.m. — 40 Carrots, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Reservations required. Information: mymanatee. org/library, 941-778-6341.

5-8 p.m. — Holiday Walk/Open Houses, Gulf and Marina drives, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6694.

6 p.m. — Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce treelighting celebration, 5313 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-1541.

Saturday, Dec. 3

10 a.m. — Storytime, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Reservations required. Information: mymanatee.org/library, 941-778-6341.

10:30 a.m.-2 p.m. — Lester Family Fun Day, Center of Anna Maria Island, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria. 941-778-1908.

2 p.m. — Paper crafting, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Reservations required. Information: mymanatee. org/library, 941-778-6341.

3-9 p.m. — Bradenton Beach Holiday Faire, Bridge Street, Bradenton Beach. Information: 941-896-2222.

6:30 p.m. — Bradenton Beach Holiday Boat Parade, Historic Bridge Street Pier for viewing. Information: 941-896-2222.

a worldwide sensation.”

Other films in December include:

• Dec. 13: “Rio Bravo.”

• Dec. 20: “The Polar Express.”

• Dec. 27: “Sing 2.”

Attendees are encouraged to bring their own blankets, chairs and snacks.

Showtime is 6:30 p.m.

For more information, call the city at 941-7086130.

Tuesday, Dec. 6

10 a.m. — Storytime, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Reservations required. Information: mymanatee.org/library, 941-778-6341.

ONGOING AROUND AMI

First Wednesdays, “SOAR in 4” family night, the Bishop Museum, 201 10th St. W., Bradenton. Fee applies. Information: 941-746-4131, bishopscience.org

Through March 18, “Towers of Tomorrow with LEGO Bricks,” the Bishop Museum, 201 10th St. W., Bradenton. Fee applies. Information: 941-746-4131, bishopscience.org

SAVE THE DATE

Dec. 9, Santa in the Park and Holiday Walk of Treasures, Anna Maria.

Dec. 9, Manatee County’s A Night Before Christmas, Bradenton.

Dec. 10, Anna Maria Island Privateers Christmas Parade, islandwide.

Dec. 10, Florida Maritime Museum’s Christmas in Cortez, Cortez.

Dec. 15-18, Palma Sola Botanical Park’s Winter Nights Under the Lights, Bradenton.

Dec. 17, Bradenton Beach Area Merchants Christmas on Bridge Street celebration, Bradenton Beach.

CLUBS & COMMUNITY

ON AMI

Wednesday, Nov. 30

10 a.m. — Aging Series: Caregiving, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Reservations required. Information: mymanatee.org/library, 941-778-6341.

Thursday, Dec. 1

11 a.m. — “Importance of Local Fisheries and Seafood Production” lecture by Angela Collins of Florida Sea Grant, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Reservations required. Information: mymanatee.org/library, 941-778-6341.

2 p.m. — Sunshine Stitchers Knit and Crochet, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Reservations required. Information: mymanatee.org/library, 941-778-6341.

Friday, Dec. 2

5-7 p.m. — Toys for Tots holiday open house and toy drive,

compiled by Lisa Neff, calendar@islander.org.

Island happenings Island Library sets December plans

A seafood talk and a stitching session will start the Island Library’s 12th month of 2022.

The library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, will host Angela Collins of the Florida Sea Grant for a talk at 11 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 1, on “the importance of local fisheries and seafood production.”

That day, the Sunshine Stitchers Knit and Crochet group will meet at 2 p.m. and a teen yoga session will be at 6 p.m.

The December calendar also includes:

• The 40 Carrots parenting program at 10 a.m. Fridays, Dec. 2, Dec. 9, Dec. 16,

• Paper crafting at 2 p.m. Friday, Dec. 2, and origami Saturday, Dec. 10;

• Storytime at 10 am. Saturday, Dec. 3, and 10 a.m. Tuesdays, Dec. 6, Dec. 13, Dec. 20, Dec. 27;

Peppy pickles

Kettle cooking

garrison Hahn of Hahns Kettle corn stirs the pot at city Pier Park in anna maria in preparation for visitors to the city-sponsored farmers market, which takes place Tuesdays into may — 8:30 a.m.-2 p.m.

941-737-9642.

Saturday, Dec. 3

10 a.m.-1 p.m. — Ask a Master Gardener, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Reservations required. Information: mymanatee.org/library, 941-778-6341.

Monday, Dec. 5

11 a.m. — Understanding Alzheimer’s and Dementia, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Reservations required. Information: mymanatee.org/library, 941-778-6341.

1 p.m. — Climate Series: Water via Zoom, Island Library. Information: mymanatee.org/library, 941-778-6341.

ONGOING ON AMI

Fridays, 11:30 a.m., Mahjong Club experienced players, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: mymanatee. org/library, 941-778-6341.

Saturdays, 8:30 a.m., Kiwanis Club of Anna Maria Island meeting, Bradenton Beach City Hall, 107 Gulf Drive N., Bradenton Beach. Information: 941-778-1383, amikiwanis.com.

Wednesdays, 1 p.m., Mahjong Club beginners, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: mymanatee.org/ library, 941-778-6341.

ONGOING AROUND AMI

Second Fridays, 1 p.m., Parkinson’s Combined Support Group, the Paradise Center, 546 Bay Isles Road, Longboat Key. Information: 941-383-6493.

Mondays, 1 p.m., Thinking Out Loud discussions, the Paradise Center, 546 Bay Isles Road, Longboat Key. Information: 941-3836493.

Tuesdays, 11:30 a.m., Rotary Club of Anna Maria Island lunch meeting, Slicker’s Eatery, 12012 Cortez Road W., Cortez. Information: 512-944-4177, amirotary.org.

Second Tuesdays, 4 p.m., Cortez Village Historical Society meetings, Cortez Cultural Center, 11655 Cortez Road W., Cortez. Information: 941-840-0590, cortezvillagehistoricalsociety.org.

SAVE THE DATE

Dec. 13, Anna Maria Island and West Manatee Democratic Club holiday celebration, Bradenton.

Dec. 14, Paradise Center’s Veterans Canteen gathering, Longboat Key.

Dec. 15, Paradise Center’s memory screenings, Longboat Key.

Odd Duck Designs Shop

chip english plugs his pickled products at Spiked Pickles at an early fall anna maria farmers market in city Pier Park. The city-operated market operates 8:30 a.m.-2 p.m. Tuesdays into may under the shade sails at the park at the corner of North Bay Boulevard and Pine avenue. Islander Photos: Samara Paice

Dec. 16, Anna Maria Garden Club meeting, Anna Maria. Dec. 17, Manatee County Democratic Environmental Caucus’ Perico Preserve Tour, Perico Island.

OUTDOORS & SPORTS

ONGOING ON AMI

AMI Dragon Boat Team-Paddlers from Paradise practices and meetups, various times and locations. Information: 941-462-2626, mrbradway@gmail.com.

ONGOING AROUND AMI

Saturdays, 9 a.m., Robinson Runners run, walk stroll, Robinson Preserve NEST, 10299 Ninth Ave. NW., Bradenton. Information: 941-742-5923, crystal.scherer@mymanatee.org, mymanatee.org.

Saturdays, 9 a.m., Mornings at the NEST, 10299 Ninth Ave. NW., Bradenton. Information: 941-742-5923, mymanatee.org.

GOOD TO KNOW KEEP THE DATES

Dec. 7, Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day. Dec. 17, Hanukkah begins.

Dec. 21, winter begins.

Dec. 25, Christmas.

Dec. 26, Kwanzaa begins. Dec. 26, Boxing Day.

Dec. 31, New Year’s Eve.

GET LISTED

Send listings and announcements to calendar@islander.org. Please, include a contact name and also a phone number for publication.

• Understanding Alzheimer’s and Dementia at 11 a.m. Monday, Dec. 5;

• Climate Smart series programs at 1 p.m. Mondays, Dec. 5 and Dec. 19.

• Sunshine Stitchers at 2 p.m. Thursdays, Dec. 8, Dec. 22 and Dec. 29.

• Island Time Book Club at 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 14, to discuss Taylor Jenkins Reid’s “Daisy Jones and the Six” novel;

• Island Morning Book Club at 10:15 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 15, to discuss “Anxious People” by Fredrik Backman;

• Family movie, “Dr. Seuss’ The Grinch,” at 6 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 15;

• Seaside Quilters at 10 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 29.

For more information, call the library at 941778-6341.

Click! The Islander welcomes news of the milestones in readers’ lives. Send photos — along with contact info — to news@islander.org.

The roser church fellowship Hall is filled with anticipation and bustling with conversations between old friends and new. among the many recognizable faces is former ame principal Jim Kronus, pictured below.

former ame principal Jim Kronus. The rev. dr. dirk rodgers of roser. Two lines dish up dinner for all.

LefT: Pam Ladd, left, chief cook for the Thanksgiving dinner at roser church Nov. 24 for about 300-350 people, stirs up gravy just prior to the guests being served. Islander Photos: Bonner Joy

Volunteers prepare and serve Thanksgiving dinner to a grateful group of worshippers.

AME Calendar

• Wednesday, Dec. 7, STEM Night.

• Dec. 5-8, Scholastic Book Fair.

• Dec. 15-16, Polar Express.

• Friday, Dec. 16, holiday cookie exchange.

• Tuesday, Dec. 20, 5:30 p.m., PTO dinner in the cafeteria; 6:30 p.m., fifth-grade play in the auditorium.

• Dec. 19-21, holiday shopper.

• Friday, Dec. 23, winter break begins.

• Tuesday, Jan. 10, school begins.

AME is at 4700 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach.

For more information, call the school at 941-708-5525.

Cleanup among the mangroves

ame fifth-grader Penny Payne shows off her poster Nov. 13 depicting how trash gets into the ocean during a coastal cleanup effort at Joan m. durante Park on Longboat Key. Penny and friends created a group, the four directions, to help the island community. The next kids’ coastal cleanup will be in January.

Islander Photos: Brook morrison

ame principal michael masiello, left, school resource officer christine LaBranche and Holmes Beach Police chief Bill Tokajer congratulate fifth-grader charlee maize, whose “Police Protecting our community” art work won a school art contest. charlee’s design became the decal for the resource officer’s police cruiser.

AmE NEWS

To HBPD with love

In october, 39 fifth-grade students at anna maria elementary competed in an art contest. Holmes Beach Police chief Bill Tokajer and ame student charlee maize celebrate the choice of charlee’s artwork for the window decal of the school resource officer’s police cruiser. The chief presented charlee with “The chief’s challenge coin.” Islander Photos: courtesy ame

volunteers Nov. 13 pose for a photo with the trash they collected at Joan m. durante Park on Longboat Key.

By Lisa Neff

Holly Berry Bazaar Dec. 3

The popular Holly Berry Bazaar will take place 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 3, at the Episcopal Church of the Annunciation.

The sale will be in the church hall, 4408 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach.

There will be raffles and sales of homemade goodies, crafts, jewelry, Christmas decorations, household items and more.

Also, the kitchen will open for lunch and snack sales.

For more information, call the church offi ce at 941-778-1638.

Christmas brunch Dec. 3

The CrossPointe REAL Women continues a church and holiday tradition Saturday, Dec. 3.

The annual Christmas brunch will take place that day, beginning at 9:30 a.m. and featuring remarks by Ann Rector.

CrossPointe Fellowship is at 8605 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach.

For more, call the church at 941-778-0719.

Tidings

ON AMI

CrossPointe Fellowship, 8605 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. Info: 941-778-0719, crosspointefellowship.church, @CrossPointeFellowship.

Worship: Sundays, 9 a.m.

Ongoing: Wednesdays, 7 a.m., men’s Bible meeting; Wednesdays, 6 p.m., supper; Wednesdays, Night Blast, 6:45 p.m.; Fridays, 10 a.m. women’s Bible meeting.

Episcopal Church of the Annunciation, 4408 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. Info: 941-778-1638, amiannunciation.org, @EpiscopalChurchoftheAnnunciationatHolmesBeach.

Worship: Thursdays, 9:30 a.m.; Sundays, 8 a.m. and 10:15 a.m.

Ongoing: Wednesdays, 8 a.m., men’s meeting; Mondays, 1 p.m., book group; Tuesdays, 6 p.m. first and second, 5 p.m. third and fourth, Terrific Tuesdays.

Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, 6608 Marina Drive. Holmes Beach. Info: 941-778-1813, gloriadeilutheran.com.

Worship: Sundays, 9:30 a.m.

Ongoing: Wednesdays, 9:30 a.m., social gathering, Manatee Public Beach; Sundays, 10:15 a.m., coffee and fellowship.

Harvey Memorial Community Church, 300 Church Ave., Bradenton Beach. Information: 941-779-1912.

Worship: Sundays, 9:15 a.m.

Roser Memorial Community Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Information: 941-778-0414, roserchurch.com, @roserchurch.

Worship: Sundays, 8:30 a.m., 10 a.m.

Ongoing: Tuesdays and Thursdays, 9:30 a.m., Roser Robics; Tuesdays and Thursdays, 9 a.m.-2 p.m. and Saturdays, 10 a.m.-1 p.m., Roser Thrift Store; Wednesdays, 6:15 p.m., Youth Performing Arts, second and fourth Thursdays, 11 a.m., Just Older Youth group programs with brown-bag lunch; Thursdays, 5:30 p.m., Roser Ringers rehearsal; 7 p.m., Thursdays, choir rehearsal; Sundays, 8:30 a.m., adult Sunday school and coffee and conversation sessions.

St. Bernard Catholic Church, 248 S. Harbor Drive, Holmes Beach. Info: 941-778-4769, stbernardcc.com, @stbernardcc.

Worship: Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m.; Saturdays, 4 p.m.; Sundays, 8:30 a.m., 10:30 a.m.

Ongoing: Mondays-Fridays, 8 a.m., rosary; Wednesdays, 7:30 a.m., Rosary on the Beach at Manatee Public Beach; Saturdays, 3:30 p.m., confession.

OFF AMI

Christ Church of Longboat Key Presbyterian USA, 6400 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key. Info: 941-900-4903, christchurchoflbk.org, @CCLBK.

Worship: Sundays, 10 a.m.

Ongoing: Wednesdays, 10 a.m., Women’s Bible Study; Mondays, 9 a.m., Men’s Bible Study.

Longboat Island Chapel, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key. Info: 941-383-6491, longboatislandchapel.org, @longboatislandchapel.

Worship: Sundays, 10 a.m.

Ongoing: Mondays, Wednesdays and Saturdays, 9 a.m.-3

GoodDeeds

compiled by Lisa Neff

Helping at holidays

• A Paradise Realty and Vacation Rentals, 5201 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, is collecting for Toys for Tots, including at a Dec. 2 open house. Info: 941-7379642.

• The Rotary Club of Anna Maria Island is ringing the bell for Salvation Army donations Dec. 5-9 and seeking volunteers. Information: Email Judy Rup at freshnfruiti@hotmail.com.

Assistance sought

• The Palma Sola Botanical Park Foundation, which oversees the gardens at 9800 17th Ave. NW, Bradenton, seeks help fulfilling a wish list for a golf cart, scaffolding, wheelbarrows, wagons, ceramic pots, potting soil, mulch, plants and greenhouse tables. Information: 941-761-2866.

• The Friends of the Island Library is collecting jewelry for a fundraising sale in March. The drop-off is at the Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Info: 941-778-6341.

• Moonracer Animal Rescue seeks volunteers to

Worship With Us At Our Church Sunday Ser vice 10:00 AM

The Rev Dr Nor man Pritchard Men’s Bible Study: Monday @ 9:00

Women’s Bible Study: Wednesday @ 10:00

Visitors & Residents Welcome Watch Our 10: 00 AM Ser vice Live: www.bit.ly/cclbksermons or www christchurchof lbk org (follow YouTube link)

Migrant Tea held

The Church Women United held its annual Migrant Tea Nov. 18 at Bradenton’s Trinity United Methodist Church.

Island representation included a group of nine women from Roser Memorial Community Church in Anna Maria.

For more than 40 years, Roser churchwomen have made quilts, layettes and knit caps, as well as bought clothes, shoes and other gifts for migrant families that come to Manatee County to work in food production.

The tea program included remarks by Florinda Sedillo, a child of migrant parents who traveled across the country and always had work.

Students of myakka elementary sing during the church Women united annual migrant Tea Nov. 18 in Bradenton.

Gathering

Gathering is the religion page. Please, send listings and news to calendar@ islander.org. Include a phone number for a contact.

p.m., Lord’s Warehouse Thrift Shop; Wednesdays, 10 a.m., Bible study; Mondays, 4 p.m., choir rehearsal.

Temple Beth Israel, 567 Bay Isles Road, Longboat Key. Info: 941-383-3428.

Worship: Fridays, Shabbat, 5:30 p.m.; Saturdays, 10 a.m.

Ongoing: Fridays, 6:45 p.m., choir call.

SPECIAL EVENTS

Through Dec. 31, Longboat Island Chapel Christmas in the Garden.

Dec. 3, 9:30 a.m., CrossPointe REAL Women Annual Christmas Brunch.

Dec. 3, 9:30 a.m.-2 p.m., Episcopal Church of the Annunciation Holly Berry Bazaar and Food Market.

Dec. 3, 6 p.m., Roser Church family movie night.

Dec. 4, St. B Women’s Guild Poinsettia Sale.

Dec. 11, 2 p.m., Gloria Dei Christmas concert.

Dec. 11, 6 p.m., Roser Bethlehem Walk.

offer foster and forever homes for rescued animals, as well as assist with technology. Info: 941-345-2441.

• Roser Food Bank seeks donations. Roser Memorial Community Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, administers the pantry, supported by All Island Denominations. Info: 941-778-0414.

Assistance offered

• Roser Food Bank welcomes applicants who live and/or work on Anna Maria Island for food assistance, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Info: 941778-0414.

• AID offers financial help to those who live on the island, go to church on the island, attend school on the island and work on the island. Info: 941-725-2433.

Please, send notices for GoodDeeds— along with contact info — to calendar@islander.org.

Click! The Islander welcomes news of the milestones in readers’ lives. Send notices — along with contact info — to news@islander.org.

SUNDAY WORSHIP

Roser Church

8:30 AM & 10:00 AM

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

Text ROSER to 22828 to receive the weekly eBulletin

The CHAPEL is open during office hours for prayer and meditation 941-778-0414 • 512 Pine Ave, Anna Maria • FOLLOW us on Facebook

compiled by Lisa Neff

roser guild members Peggy Nash, left, dawne Scott, marian valentine, Irene degenhardt, frieda Jaworske, margo Kingsley, diane Woodrow, Terri flail and mary Baldovini attend the annual migrant Tea, held Nov. 18 at Bradenton’s Trinity united methodist church. Islander Photos: courtesy Peggy Nash

‘In Sweet Rejoicing:’ Acclaimed artist to perform Christmas concert at Gloria Dei

Internationally recognized pianist/organist Elena Zamolodchikova will present a concert of Christmas season music at 2 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 11, at Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, 6608 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach.

Zamolodchikova’s “In Dulce Jubilo” (In Sweet Rejoicing) concert will feature music by composers Franz Liszt, Robert Schumann, Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, Antonio Vivaldi and Claude Debussy.

The concert — open to the public with freewill offerings welcome — also will include a holiday carol sing.

“Since I moved to Florida, I have been enjoying my teaching and church musician positions, as well as playing at the concerts,” she says. “I also enjoy the weather and the beautiful nature of Florida, which I haven’t ceased admiring as of yet in all seasons.”

Zamolodchikova, the worship accompanist at Gloria Dei, was born in Moscow and received degrees in piano and historical keyboard instruments from the Moscow Tchaikovsky Conservatory, as well as a bachelor of music in harpsichord from New York City’s

Obituaries

Jon Bruce Holcomb

Jon Bruce Holcomb, 74, of Holmes Beach, died unexpectedly of a chronic medical condition Nov. 2.

He was born to James and Anna (Keers) Holcomb Jan. 4, 1948, and spent his childhood and teen years in Peekskill, New York, excelling in sports, including football, baseball, and basketball.

elena Zamolodchikova will perform a christmas concert at 2 p.m. Sunday, dec. 11, at gloria dei Lutheran church, 6608 marina drive, Holmes Beach. Islander courtesy Photo

Dr. Andre J. Renard

Dr. Andre J. Renard, 82, of Holmes Beach, died Nov. 22.

The Juilliard School and a doctoral of musical arts in harpsichord from the State University of New York at Stony Brook.

She has performed in Russia, Italy, Germany, Norway and the United States in collaboration with such prominent early music specialists as Christopher Hogwood, William Christie, Monica Huggers and Nicholas McGegan.

Also, she recorded Ottorino Respighi’s “Ancient Airs and Dances” with the Chamber Orchestra of New York on the Naxos label.

Zamolodchikova is on the faculty of the New Tampa Piano and Pedagogy Academy in Tampa and also consults for Zuckermann Harpsichord International.

Before moving to Florida, she was the organist/ pianist at First Congregational Church in Westfield, Connecticut, and regularly appeared as pianist and harpsichordist for the Connecticut-based Salt Marsh Opera productions.

“We are very lucky to have her,” the Rev. Doug Kings, Gloria Dei’s pastor, wrote in an email to The Islander. “She was moving to Florida to teach at a piano school in Tampa just as we were looking for a new musician.”

After the performance, the church will serve holiday cookies and punch.

For more information, contact Gloria Dei by phone at 941-778-1813 or via email at gdlami18@gmail. com.

Holcomb

He graduated from State University of New York at Oswego, where he met the love of his life, Wendy Krehbiel, and went on to become a beloved art teacher. While on a hiatus from teaching, he founded and ran a successful sporting goods store and a limousine company. He eventually returned to teaching art and also was a revered basketball and golf coach before retiring.

He played golf often and well, winning championships and tournaments as well scoring six holesin-one. He was a good friend and teammate to those who shared the links with him at the Key Royale Club in Holmes Beach or the Oswego Country Club. His love of golf was second only to the love he had for his family and friends.

Per his wishes, there will be no services. Rather, a celebration of life will be announced at a later date. Memorial donations may be made to 4 Lucky Dog Pet Rescue Inc. 4414 Gentrice Drive, Valrico, FL 33596, Underdog Rescue in Bradenton or Gloria Dei Lutheran Church in Holmes Beach.

Mr. Holcomb is survived by his loving wife of nearly 54 years, Wendy; sons J.T. and Jeff; daughtersin-law Paula and Jennifer; grandchildren Lily, Katie, Charlie, and A.J.; and countless friends.

At your service

Obituaries are offered as a community service to residents and families of residents, both past and present, as well as to those people with ties to the island. Submit to news@islander.org. Obituaries are free — a service of your community newspaper. Paid obituaries can be discussed with advertising consultant Toni Lyon at 941-778-7978.

He was born in Belgium and began painting at an early age before graduating the University of Brussels. He completed his residency at the University of Florida Health Science Center in Jacksonville before moving to Bradenton.

He retired from his practice in plastic surgery and was an accomplished artist, working mostly with oils in large-scale paintings on canvas.

The Islander once featured his work on the cover, a large painting titled “Rube,” a social-political statement featuring a female character in red that Renard named Rube.

A celebration of life is being planned. Brown & Sons Funeral Homes & Crematory 43rd Street Chapel is in charge of arrangements. Condolences may be made to brownandsonsfuneral.com.

Mr. Renard is survived by his wife, Carol Whitmore, and many family members and friends.

...

The Islander newspaper is free at Publix Holmes Beach. Just stop by the customer service desk, hold out your hand and say, “Islander, please!” And maybe remind staff you’d like the serve-yourself community newsrack returned to the lobby.

The Wish Book is available at the office, 315 58th St., Suite J, Holmes Beach, as well as at islander. org. The Wish Book contains wish lists from amI organizations.

Derelict Bridge Street buildings await developer’s resort plans

By robert anderson Islander reporter

Some commercial buildings at the Gulf Drive entrance to Bridge Street look a mess.

And Bradenton Beach officials want improvements.

In the meantime, the city erected a fence to hide the derelict buildings during “Holidays in Paradise.”

The public-private celebration along Bridge Street began Nov. 19 and continues through Dec. 31.

According to the Manatee County Property Appraisers website, the property is owned by 205 Sycamore LLC, which lists Shawn Kaleta and Najmy Thompson PL as corporate officers.

Bradenton Beach Mayor John Chappie said during a meeting about a month ago that he intended to reach out to Kaleta, owner/ manager of 900-plus rental units on Anna Maria Island, about 101 Bridge St.

At the time, the city and Bridge Street merchants were preparing for holiday events and Chappie said he wanted the area beautified for the celebrations.

More recently, the city installed $300 in construction fencing and landscaping to shield the property.

Meanwhile, plans have been submitted by Kaleta and Najmy Thompson PL to the building and permitting offi ce for a resort at 101 Bridge St. and some surrounding properties.

The properties in addition to 101 Bridge St., include 106 Third St. S., currently a rental home; 105 Bridge St. Apt. 1, which previously housed Island Time Inn; and 219 Gulf Drive S., previously Joe’s Eats

and Sweets, all owned or leased by Kaleta and Najmy Thompson.

Other potential properties in the redevelopment project include 108 Third St. S., 110 Third St. S. Unit W, 112 Third St. S. and 117 Bridge St., all of which are registered to Bridge Street Bazaar Inc., owned by Commissioner Jake Spooner.

Spooner told The Islander Nov. 23, “I would welcome a responsible redevelopment of the buildings that would enhance the community of Bradenton Beach.”

Kaleta submitted to the city conceptual drawings for a 103-room, 206,987-square-foot resort referred to in a design document as “Bridge St. Hotel.”

“We received a very preliminary set of conceptual

a computer rendering submitted to the Bradenton Beach building and permitting office shows a planned resort on Bridge Street.

drawings a number of months ago for a mixed-use hotel and retail building on this property,” building official Steve Gilbert wrote in a Nov. 7 email to The Islander.

Gilbert said the city received plans in August and the list of work to get to the building application stage is long, including flood design, elevations, parking, traffic patterns, setbacks, etc., as well as an easement.

The Islander reached out Nov. 23 to Louis Najmy of the Najmy Thompson law firm by phone for comment but, as of Islander press time, no response was received.

Shawn Kaleta also did not comment, bur when reached Nov. 25, said he was traveling.

BB planners recommend expanded patio dining proposal

By robert anderson Islander reporter

What was the “special” Nov. 16 on the menu for the Bradenton Beach Planning and Zoning Board?

A request to expand patio dining at the Wicked Cantina.

Board members, after review, recommended a proposal from owner Mike Dolan to expand outdoor dining at the restaurant, 101 Seventh St.

The meeting included direction from city building official Steve Gilbert and city planner Luis Serna about possible conflicts the change might have with the land use code. Serna and Gilbert recommended approval of the proposal during an Oct. 19 P&Z meeting.

Dolan attended Nov. 16 to answer questions about

a patio addition at Wicked cantina, 101 Seventh St. N., Bradenton Beach.

Islander Photo: robert anderson

the restaurant’s plan to permanently allocate the area allocated to outdoor service early in the COVID-19 pandemic. The proposal would reduce parking seven spaces below the minimum requirement to 66 spaces.

In an effort to alleviate capacity limits in the first months of the pandemic, the city approved an ordi-

nance in May 2020 that temporarily allowed expanded open-air dining and retail sales on private property.

City commissioners May 19 decided the ordinance should still be in effect based on input from the city attorney but Dolan wants a permanent solution to open-air dining at Wicked Cantina.

In his pitch, he reminded the P&Z board that he caters to a high number of pedestrian and fare-free trolley riders, which help offset the parking needs.

The P&Z concluded the proposed project does not conflict with the land development code.

P&Z member Bill Morrow motioned to make the recommendation to the commission and seek authorization to work with staff on a revision to the land development code.

Dan Morhaus seconded the motion, which was unanimously approved.

The LDC can be found under the building and planning department link at cityofbradentonbeach.com.

The P&Z is a citizen board that recommends landuse policies to the city commission and reviews development proposals.

The next P&Z meeting is at 1 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 21, at city hall, 107 Gulf Drive N.

The next commission meeting is 6 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 1.

Islander Photo: courtesy Bradenton Beach

County road work pushed to spring 2023 completion

By ryan Paice Islander reporter

Yogi Berra once said, “When you come to a fork in the road, take it.”

In Holmes Beach, it’s the only option.

Manatee County project manager Brett Gocka told The Islander Nov. 23 that completion of the county’s force main replacement project on Holmes Boulevard by Sarasota-based Spectrum Underground has been pushed to April 2023.

The project was initially projected to end in November but, in September, the target was pushed to January 2023, due in part to Hurricane Ian and complications with Holmes Beach’s city center construction project.

The project involves replacing 4,000 feet of 16-inch PVC force main lines along Holmes Boulevard and 1,100 feet of 8-inch lines along 58th Street.

Work also involves replacing water services and upsizing potable water lines from 2- and 4-inch diameter lines to 6-inch diameter pipes.

Replacing the infrastructure is projected to cost the county, which owns and operates the water service, $3,618,672.10.

The city center project involves new bicycle lanes, sidewalks, crosswalks, street lighting and landscaping from the intersection at Gulf and Marina drives to the 5600 block of Marina Drive.

Work on the city center project has closed Marina Drive where it runs parallel to Holmes Boulevard, so northbound motorists either must continue north on Gulf Drive or detour at Holmes Boulevard.

The city center project is projected for completion by the end of this year.

But Gocka said Spectrum still had several projects to undertake, including restoration work and the installation of 16-inch force mains at Holmes Boulevard

running under Gulf Drive to 52nd Street.

He said that construction would require a road closure to complete and Spectrum may work nights in order to keep traffic flowing during the day.

Gocka said the contractor also needs to close a section of Holmes Boulevard between Gulf Drive and 54th Street for installation.

However, the county’s plans for night construction and road closures have yet to be finalized or approved by the city, according to Gocka.

“We’re trying to come up with ways that they can do their work and we can do our work,” Gocka said. “We think we have an idea moving forward, but it’s kind of dynamic at this point.”

“It’s a little tricky,” he added.

Nevertheless, Gocka said the county projects Spectrum to install all force main pipelines by March 2023, and then begin restorative work, which could take about a month.

People can learn more about the force main replacement project at amiprojects.io.

Palmetto man arrested for DUI

By ryan Paice Islander reporter

Holmes Beach police arrested Palmetto resident Nicholas Ryder, 21, Nov. 17 on a first-degree misdemeanor for reckless driving, as well as a second-degree misdemeanor for driving under the influence of alcohol.

An officer saw a motorist tailgating on Manatee Avenue, then swerve into oncoming traffi c to pass other motorists before returning to the correct lane.

The officer followed the motorist and saw their vehicle again cross a double yellow centerline to pass motorists, so he conducted a traffic stop.

The officer spoke with the motorist, Ryder, who had slow movements, bloodshot eyes and his vehicle smelled of alcohol, according to a police report.

Ryder also reportedly told the offi cer he drank

PLeaSe, See DUi, Page 193

Island police reports

Anna Maria

Nov. 18, 400 block of Spring Avenue, burglary. Manatee County Sheriff’s deputies responded to an alleged residential burglary. A complainant, who was not home, said an ex-spouse entered the home causing damage. Deputies determined the ex had lied to a property management company to obtain a key. The man was not at the property when deputies arrived.

The MCSO polices Anna Maria.

Bradenton Beach

Nov. 15, 1800 block of Gulf Drive North, grand theft. Bradenton Beach Police Department officers responded to a call concerning the theft of power tools from a rental unit. Officers issued a case number.

Nov. 17, 111 Gulf Drive S., Island Time, defrauding an innkeeper. BBPD officers responded to a call concerning a dine-and-dash. A restaurant manager said two people left without paying their bill. The officer took a description of the suspects from a security video and issued an incident report.

The BBPD polices Bradenton Beach.

three beers at an island resort before the drive.

The officer requested backup, then asked Ryder to perform field sobriety exercises, which he failed.

The HBPD arrested Ryder and transported him to the station for processing, where he refused to provide a breath sample.

He was transported him to the Manatee County jail and released the same day after posting $240 bond.

If convicted, punishment for a first-degree misdemeanor includes up to a year in jail, a year of probation and a fine of up to $1,000, while a second-degree misdemeanor includes up to 60 days in jail and a fine of up to $500.

An arraignment will be Dec. 20 at the Manatee County Judicial Center, Bradenton.

Cortez

No new reports.

The MCSO polices Cortez. Holmes Beach

Nov. 14, 800 block of Manatee Avenue, suspended license. An officer from the Holmes Beach Police Department clocked a motorist driving 60 mph in a 35-mph zone and conducted a traffic stop. The officer spoke with the driver, whose license was suspended, and saw open beer containers in the vehicle. The officer issued a criminal citation for driving with a suspended license, as well as two uniform traffic citations for speeding and possessing an open container of alcohol.

Nov. 17, 900 block of Manatee Avenue, seize tag order. An officer located a motorist pinged by the HBPD’s license plate recognition system and conducted a traffic stop. The officer spoke with the driver, who did not know his license had been suspended. The officer issued a uniform traffic citation for unknowingly driving with a suspended license and seized the vehicle’s plate, which was placed in storage.

Nov. 17, 2900 block of Gulf Drive, Baker Act. An officer clocked a motorist driving 74 mph in a 35-mph zone, and conducted a traffic stop. The officer spoke to the driver, who said he wanted to commit suicide. The officer placed the man in custody under the Baker Act and transported him to Centerstone Behavioral Hospital in Bradenton. The vehicle was towed.

Nov. 17, 900 block of Manatee Avenue, speeding/no license. An officer clocked a motorist driving 69 mph in a 35-mph zone and conducted a traffic stop. The officer spoke to the driver, who said he lost his license. The officer searched databases and found no license for the man. He was issued a criminal citation for driving without a license and a uniform traffic citation for speeding.

Nov. 17, 2900 block of Avenue E, theft. A man called the HBPD to report his wife took an iPhone, $400 in gift cards and a coin from his home. The man said they are going through a divorce. An officer advised that

Medical examiner confirms overdose in June Cortez death

The District 12 Medical Examiner’s Office confirmed Nov. 19 that Desiree E. Vanhorn, 34, of Bradenton died June 26 by way of intoxication with methamphetamine in Cortez.

Vanhorn and a friend were on a boat anchored off the dock of the Starfish Co. Market and Restaurant, according to a Manatee County Sheriff’s Office report.

Vanhorn’s companion noticed her exhibiting symptoms of a heart attack and rowed her to shore while calling for emergency aid.

Manatee County Emergency Medical Services and West Manatee Fire Rescue crews responded to the dock at Star Co. and attempted life-saving measures but Vanhorn died at the scene.

— robert anderson the issue was a civil matter.

Nov. 17, 900 block of Manatee Avenue, speeding. An officer clocked a motorist driving 68 mph in a 35-mph zone and conducted a traffic stop. The officer issued a uniform traffic citation for speeding.

Nov. 18, 3600 block of Gulf Drive, traffic signal violation. An officer saw a motorist proceed through a flashing red traffic light at the intersection of Manatee Avenue and Gulf Drive without stopping. A traffic stop was conducted and the driver was issued a warning. Due to suspicion of impairment and the driver’s refusal to participate in field sobriety testing or provide a breath test, the officer had the vehicle towed.

Nov. 20, Hurricane Hanks restaurant, 5346 Gulf Drive, trespass warning. An officer responded to reports of a man harassing business patrons and begging for money and found a man matching the provided description upon arrival. The officer supervised the business owner as he issued a trespass warning. The man left without issue.

HBPD polices Holmes Beach.

Streetlife is based on incident reports and narratives from the BBPD, HBPD and MCSO.

compiled by ryan Paice and robert anderson

By Lisa Neff

My green Christmas

I’m dreaming of a greener Christmas.

I work each year at doing better to recycle, repurpose and even — ack — regift to reduce waste during the holiday season.

A couple of years ago, my wife and I purchased a live cedar tree at a sale at Robinson Preserve for our Christmas tree.

After the holiday, we planted the tree in a common area in our condo community. Now neighbors are planning a get-together to decorate “Big Red” and toast the season.

Pelican protections proposed

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission is considering new rules for the fishing piers at the Sunshine Skyway Bridge to protect brown pelicans.

The FWC held a virtual workshop Nov. 21 to hear comments on potential fishing rules for Skyway Fishing Pier State Park to reduce anglerseabird interactions.

Potential protections include:

• Prohibiting multiple hooks, such as treble hooks;

• Prohibiting gear with more than one hook, such as Sabiki rigs;

• Limiting anglers to three sets of hook and line gear per person.

The state agency has not set a date for when potential rules will be considered by the commission.

The brown pelican, once listed as endangered, is not on the federal endangered species.

Neff

A couple of years before we purchased the live tree, my wife and I went to a state park to help remove invasive species and clear a scrub area overgrown with evergreens.

Organizers of that event cleverly rallied volunteers who actually paid $20 to work, cutting evergreens for their Christmas trees.

This year, we’re hoping to get another live tree but, if none are available, we’ll green the holiday in other ways.

Some tips:

• Use sustainable gift wrap: Consider saving and re-using holiday wrapping paper, as well as repurposing fabric or, yes, newspaper.

The center spread of The Islander is perfect for wrapping a hardcover book.

• Reuse bags: Save and reuse gift bags but be sure to remove the old tags.

And consider making reusable shopping bags part

of your gifts.

• Give certificates, cards: A lot of us have a lot of stuff. The proof is in the number of self-storage buildings going up on the mainland and in the way people in the market for real estate put a premium on bigger closets.

Consider gifting cards for services and memberships, tickets for entertainment, certificates for restaurants.

One of the most luxurious Christmas gifts I’ve received as an adult was a gift card to a grocery store. I splurged.

• Donate or volunteer in someone’s name: Check The Islander’s Wish Book, which published Nov. 23, for local groups raising money for good causes.

And, if cash is tight, consider volunteering in

The species also is no longer listed in Florida but it is part of the Imperiled Species Management Plan.

For more information, call the FWC at 850487-0554.

someone’s name. I made my mom’s birthday special once when I told her my gift was volunteering to canvas for a political candidate.

• Decorate using energy-efficient lighting: LED lights come in a variety of holiday shapes and colors. In addition to having a longer lifespan than standard incandescent lights, LED use reduces fire risks because they stay cool to the touch. They also use less energy.

• Treecyle: If you have a cut tree, find out when the collection service will pick it up for recycling.

Of the estimated 30 million real Christmas trees sold in the United States each year, about 90% are recycled for mulch or chipped for public spaces.

Liz vreeland, a full-time paid bird rescuer at Sunshine Skyway fishing Pier State Park, right, talks aaron Pum, of Plant city, through the pelican rescue process at the south pier dec. 26, 2020. Islander file Photo

Holidays = sports slowdown

By Kevin P. cassidy Islander reporter

The holidays bring an on-and-off again schedule to sports at the Center of Anna Maria Island but the Anna Maria Island Pitchers are steady at the horseshoe pits.

Three teams advanced to the knockout with 3-0 pool-play records during Nov. 23 horseshoe action at the Anna Maria City Hall pits.

The bye went to Bob Palmer and Tom Betty, who watched as Rod Bussey threw a double-ringer, propelling him and partner Bob Baker into the finals with a 25-20 victory over Norm Good and Bob Mason. Bussey and Baker stayed hot in the finals, cruising to a 23-10 victory over Palmer and Betty to earn the day’s bragging rights.

cassidy

It was another three-team playoff Nov. 26 with the bye going to Jerry Disbrow and Baker. Tom Farrington and Ron Hooper advanced to the finals with a 23-7 victory over Bussey and Mason. Farrington and Hooper prevailed in the finals, 23-20 thanks to a game-ending double-ringer by Farrington.

Play gets underway at 9 a.m. Wednesdays and Saturdays at the Anna Maria pits. Warm ups begin at 8:45 a.m., followed by random team selection. There is no charge to play and everyone is welcome.

Key Royale golf news

Fifty-two Key Royale golfers played Nov. 18 in the annual “Welcome Back Scramble” at the club in Holmes Beach. The tees were relocated for the scramble to allow a par-three course.

Two teams tied for first place with scores of 3-under-par 24. The team of Laurie and Marty Hicks and Sharon and Terry Tarras tied the team of Jim Hill, Peter Lund, Blake Ress and Greg Shorten. The team of Jenny and Ron Huibers, Lori Waggoner and Debi Wohlers were one stroke back in second place.

Laurie Hicks won the women’s chipping contest, while Jim Hill chipped a win for the men. Janelle Clements captured the closest-to-the-pin contest on the eighth hole for the women, while Nelson Eagle won the men’s contest on the third hole.

Regular action resumed Nov. 21 with the men’s modified-Stableford match that saw Eagle grab clubhouse bragging rights with a plus-4. Jim Hitchen and Wohlers were a point back in second place.

The women took over the course Nov. 22 for a nine-hole individual-low-net match in two flights.

Linda Dorsey carded an even-par 32 to grab first place in Flight A by a stroke over Roxanne Koche.

3-over-par 35.

Terry Westby’s 1-under-par 31 gave her the low round of the day and first place in Flight B. Marti Clark and Peggy Clauhs both finished at even-par 32 to tie for second place, while Gloria LaDue held down third place with a 3-over-par 35.

Flag football on horizon

The community center is accepting registration for its winter flag football league for youths ages 4-13.

The league, which runs Jan. 10-March 7 is broken into the 4-5, 6-7, 8-10 and 11-13 age divisions and games will be played Tuesday evenings.

The deadline to register is Monday, Dec. 12, and player evaluations and drafts for the 8-10 and 11-13 age divisions will be Tuesday, Dec. 13. The 8-10 evaluations start at 5:30 p.m., while the 11-13s take the field at 7 p.m.

Cost for the season of play is $10 for members and $126 for nonmembers.

The center also is looking for volunteer coaches for the youth league.

Adults interested in playing flag football can register for a winter league of action at the center. The season runs Jan. 12- March 9, with games played Thursday nights.

The adult deadline to register is Wednesday, Dec. 14, and a player draft will be at 6 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 15.

Cost for adult players is $10 for members and $120 for nonmembers.

For more information, contact Rusty Wood at programs@centerami.org or 941-778-1908.

Red tide bloom remains

The red tide organism, Karenia brevis , was observed in 78 samples on Florida’s Gulf Coast.

K. brevis was observed very low to medium concentrations in Manatee County, background concentrations in Pinellas County, very low to high concentrations in and offshore of Sarasota County, background to high concentrations in and offshore of Charlotte County, very low to high concentrations in Lee County and background to medium concentrations in Collier County.

Reports of fish kills suspected to be related to red tide were received from Manatee, Sarasota, Charlotte, Lee and Collier counties.

Respiratory irritation suspected to be related to red tide was reported in Manatee, Sarasota, Charlotte, Lee and Collier counties.

For more information, go online to myfwc.com.

TideWatch

Lisa Neff

Teammates reach to volley a pickleball Nov. 3 during a match at the Holmes Beach courts along flotilla drive. Islander Photo: ryan Paice

Helen Pollock and Brenda Solleveld tied for third place at

Bob Baker, left, and rod Bussey hold the winner’s trophy thanks to a game-winning double-ringer by Bussey to close out a 23-20 victory during Nov. 23 horseshoe action at the anna maria city Hall pits. Islander Photo: courtesy amI Pitchers

Thanksgiving leftovers consumed? Time for a fish dinner

By capt. danny Stasny Islander reporter

With the leftover turkey and other tasty treats from Thanksgiving gobbled up, anglers are back on the water, hungry for action, as well as a few fillets for dinner.

For those strictly concerned with dinner, gag grouper is the highlight for the week. Fishing structure in Tampa Bay and the Gulf of Mexico works well for finding these tackle-busters.

Live pinfish as bait are the most productive, although live shiners and grunts work, too.

Structure in the Gulf is host to a variety of other species. Spanish mackerel are readily taking our bait as they work their way down the coast, heading south for warmer waters ahead of winter. When targeting macks with live shiners on the hook, you might encounter other migratory fish — jack crevalle, ladyfish and cobia. The cobia are being spotted boatside, as they meander to the surface to see what the commotion with the mackerel is about. You might even witness cobia trying to steal your mackerel as you reel one to the boat.

Moving to inland waters, flats fishing is productive for spotted seatrout. Casting jigs — such as soft plastics on a jig head — is triggering these fi sh to strike. Live shiners as bait will work. If you find freelining the shiners isn’t as productive as you would expect, add a split-shot to the jig. With the cooler water temperatures settling in, trout have a tendency to be less motivated to come to the surface to eat a bait. So adding a splitshot to the rig might get the shiner toward the bottom, where the trout are laying.

Speaking of cooler water temperatures, you may find the snook bite tapering off. To target the linesiders, you might want to start fishing canals — where deeper and warmer water exists — to find a consistent bite. Slower baits — a select-size shrimp — may be in your best interest, as the snook will become less motivated

to chase something as the water temps drop.

Lastly, if possible, you’ll need to be choosy about when you go fishing. The warmer days between the cold fronts are your best bet. Fishing during and just after a front will result in slower days, as the sudden drop in water temps send the fish into shock.

On my Just Reel charters, I’m finding plenty of action in the Gulf when fishing over reefs, wrecks and rock piles. Anchoring over structure and chumming with live shiners is triggering Spanish mackerel to the surface as they chase baits in search of a meal. Bluefish, jack crevalle and ladyfish are in the mix, adding a nice variety to the bite. For my lucky clients, I’m seeing cobia rise from the depths to check the commotion on the surface. Many are just short of the 36-inch mark, although we have had some keepers in the boat.

Moving to the flats, I’m using artificials like DOA Cal jigs to target spotted seatrout on the deeper grass flats of Sarasota Bay. Drifting and jigging works to locate concentrations of fish. Once found, I’m dropping the anchor to thoroughly fish the area, resulting in numerous trout catches. As a bonus while targeting trout, I’m encountering an occasional pompano with the jigs. You can expect some ladyfish and jack crevalle mixed in.

Capt. Jason Stock is finding gag grouper on nearand offshore structure. Baiting live pinfish is working best when targeting the popular bottom-dwelling fish. In shallower areas, Stock is simply free-lining a pinfish down to the structure where the grouper lurk. In slightly deeper waters, the addition of an egg sinker is handy when trying to get bait to the bottom. On most days, Stock is putting clients on limits of the tasty fish.

Capt. David White is finding action while working inshore around Tampa Bay. Using live shiners as bait is leading to catches of snook and spotted seatrout. For the snook, shallow flats adjacent to mangrove shorelines or oyster bars during high tides is producing the best action. As for the trout, swiftly moving tides on deeper flats of 5-7 feet of water has been the ticket. On slower stages of the tide, White is working structure in the Gulf and Tampa Bay. Around these areas, White’s clients are hooking into gag grouper and Spanish mackerel.

Capt. Warren Girle is keeping clients busy with Spanish mackerel while fishing reefs and rock piles in the Gulf. Anchoring and chumming is luring the macks

craig crawford, visiting anna maria Island from Kitchener, canada, shows off a nice Tampa Bay gag grouper that ate a live threadfin on Nov. 23. crawford was on a guided fishing trip

to the surface, where they are targetable. Free-lining live shiners with a long shank hook is working to catch the macks, as well as a variety of other species, including jack crevalle, bluefish, seatrout, ladyfish and cobia.

Moving inshore to the flats of Sarasota Bay, Girle is using artificials — soft plastics on a jig head — to find a bite. In depths of 4-8 feet, Girle is finding spotted seatrout accommodating. Casting jigs over the deep grass flats is yielding plenty of trout, and as a bonus, a few pompano are being caught.

Jim Malfese at the Rod & Reel Pier says he’s seeing Spanish mackerel being caught on days when bait schools are present. Mackerel can be seen slashing through the schools of shiners and sardines as they gather around the pier. Casting small jigs — speck rigs or silver spoons — is working well to catch these highspeed predators. These lures are also leading to hookups on ladyfish, jack crevalle and an occasional bluefish.

Casting live shrimp under the pier on a weighted rig is yielding a variety of species at the R&R, including redfish, black drum and sheepshead.

Send high-resolution photos and fishing reports to fish@islander.org.

Stasny

Ken coates of Longboat Key and New York fished inshore Nov. 15, catching several pompano with artificial bait. He was guided by capt. Warren girle.

Ben guth along with son Benny and daughter Lily show off a spotted sea trout they caught Nov. 26 while fishing with capt. Scott moore.

with capt. david White of anna maria charters.

ITEMS FOR SALE

movINg SaLe: muST sell in Palma Sola. Queen bed, dresser, night table. Twin beds, dresser, night table. dining room glass-top table, four chairs. Patio glass-top table, two chairs. excellent condition, accessories included. call 315-345-3066 for details, leave message.

PaPer TrImmer, Purple cow 2-in-1 personal with seven blades, $15. 941-7790564.

BradeNToN BLueS TIcKeT, front-of-stage, dec. 2-3. Paid $135, selling for $100. 434996-5235.

TWIN BedS: eXceLLeNT condition. adjustable with electric controls, $100 each. 941778-5542.

SIde TaBLeS: BroWN with glass top. Two for $25. 941-920-2494.

ITEMS FOR SALE Continued

cHaNdeLIer BroWN, like-new, $20, chairs, black, soft cushion, $15, white office chair, $15. 941-920-2494.

aNTIQue ParTNer deSK: all wood, $500. Inquire at The Islander office, 315 58th St. Suite J, Holmes Beach. 941-778-7978.

vIcTorIaN BaBY carrIage: Wood/wicker, great photo or theater prop. Benefits moonracer animal rescue. for photos: moonraceranimalrescue@gmail.com.

FREEBIE ITEMS FOR SALE

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

GARAGE SALES

Huge doWNSIZINg SaLe: 9 a.m.-? friday and Saturday, dec. 2-3. many household and christmas items, some collectibles and furniture, cookbooks, clothes, outside chairs, storage bins, too many miscellaneous items to list. 10115 Bud rhoden road Palmetto.

LOST & FOUND

fouNd: BIcYcLe KeY on 52nd Street, Holmes Beach. call 941-778-9622 to claim.

PETS

HeLP reScued PeTS! volunteer, foster, computer help needed! moonracer animal rescue. email: moonraceranimalrescue@ gmail.com.

TRANSPORTATION

goLf carT reNTaLS: fun for residents and tourists! www.golfcartrentalamI.com.

BOATS & BOATING

Louie is a 28 lb., 3-year-old Rat Terrier. He’s spunky, smart and funny! He’s also neutered and has all vaccinations. He’s ready to meet his new family! Call Lisa Williams at 941-345-2441 or visit The Islander office in Holmes Beach. For more about pet adoption, visit moonraceranimalrescue.com.

TWo 2022 SINgLe-sit on top Hobie mirage compass pedal kayaks with 180 kick-up fins. color, papaya. Barely used and in great condition. $1,500 each. 901-569-8685.

Have a BoaT and wanna catch more fish, better bait or learn the water? 50-year local fisherman, your boat, my knowledge. captain chris, 941-896-2915.

KaYaK fISHINg! PremIer condition Hobie 2018 revolution 16. fast and comfortable. $1,850 ($2,950 new). 503-704-8897.

HELP WANTED

HeLP WaNTed: ProPerTY monitor wanted for Holmes Beach condo. Working Saturday, Sunday and holidays, three hours per day. great working conditions, $20 per hour! call 941-778-1390.

WINN dIXIe at 7400 44th ave W., Bradenton is hiring full and part-time positions in all departments. apply at Winn dixie/careers. com

reSorT aSSISTaNT maNager needed for island resort and vacation rentals. experience a plus but will train. Weekend hours included in the 32-36 hours per week. Interested candidates, please, email islands58@ aol.com

more ads = more readers in The Islander.

HELP WANTED Continued

BeST Bar, BeST food, best wages. Hiring for front of the house, back of the house and weekend days for phone. call 941-2139926.

NoW HIrINg HaNdYmaN: full-time professional services. $15 an hour and up, based on experience. call JayPros, 941962-2874.

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

Need aN aduLT night out? call maty’s Babysitting Services. I’m 16, love kids and have lots of experience. references upon request. 618-977-9630.

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

PrIvaTe duTY: regISTered Nurse. Pet lover, non-smoker, fully vaccinated, help with transportation, shopping, light cooking, cleaning. Help with following doctor’s orders, bathing, etc. 10-plus years’ experience. call or text Jessica, 412-851-0840.

SERVICES

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

cLeaNINg: vacaTIoN, coNSTrucTIoN, residential, commercial and windows. Licensed and insured. 941-756-4570.

PreSSure WaSHINg, Paver sealing, driveway, roof, fence, pool area. also, window cleaning. Licensed and insured. 941-5653931.

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

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

aPI’S drYWaLL rePaIr: I look forward to servicing your drywall repair needs. call 941524-8067 to schedule an appointment.

HaNdYmaN or cLeaNINg services: affordable rates. fred, 941-356-1456.

LooKINg for aN earLY BIrd? You can read Wednesday’s classifieds on Tuesday at islander.org. and it’s free!

SERVICES Continued

P rofe SSI o N a L WIN do W c L ea N IN g : r esidential, commercial, free estimates. “We want to earn your busi ness!” 207-852-6163.

B u SIN e SS-T o -B u SIN e SS J d ’s Window cleaning looking for storefront jobs in Holmes Beach. I make dirty windows sparkling clean. 941-920-3840.

LAWN & GARDEN

coNNIe’S LaNdScaPINg INc residential and commercial. full-service lawn mainte nance, landscaping, cleanups, hauling and more! Insured. 941-778-5294.

B ar N e S L a WN a N d Landscape LL c design and installation, lawn and landscape services, tree trimming, mulch, rock and shell. 941-705-1444. Jr98@barneslawnand landscape.com.

coLLINS LaNdScaPe LIgHTINg: outdoor lighting, landscaping, irrigation services and maintenance. 941-279-9947. mJc24373@ gmail.com.

SearaY SPrINKLer ServIceS. repairs, additions, drip, sprinkler head/timer adjust ments. 941-920-0775.

a N ge L o ’S L a WN care : m ow, edge, string trimming, blow. Starting at $20/cut. Licensed/insured. 941-217-9000.

HOME IMPROVEMENT

vaN-go PaINTINg residential/commercial, interior/exterior, pressure cleaning, wallpa per. Island references. Bill, 941-795-5100. www.vangopainting.net.

TILe -TILe -TILe all variations of ceramic tile supplied and installed. Quality workmanship, prompt, reliable, many Island references. call Neil, 941-726-3077.

gr I ff IN’S H ome I m P roveme NTS Inc. Handyman, fine woodwork, countertops, cabinets and wood flooring. Insured and licensed. 941-722-8792.

BLINdS, SHuTTerS, SHadeS: motoriza tion. 30 years on am I. c all Keith Barnett, Barnett Blinds, 941-730-0516.

HOME IMPROVEMENT Continued

ISLaNd HaNdYmaN: I live here, work here, value your referral. refinish, paint. Just ask. JayPros. Licensed/insured. references. call Jay, 941-962-2874.

H a N d Y ma N a N d Pa INTIN g . No job too small. m ost jobs just right. c all r ichard Kloss. 941-204-1162.

ScreeNINg ServIceS: replace your old or ripped window, door or porch screens. many screen types available. retired veteran here to serve our community! free estimates, call Lane, 941-705-5293.

caLL HYdro cLeaN. full-service pressure washing, sealing. Pavers, travertine and nat ural stone. Window washing too, up to three stories. call Jacob, 941-920-2094.

S ara S o Ta INT er I or Pa INTIN g : We specialize in high-end properties. We love to paint! o wner operated. f ully insured/ licensed. call or text don, 941-900-9398.

Instagram: SarasotaInteriorPainting.

do N a L d P er KINS’ a B raca da B ra Painting LL c . Interior/exterior. 30 years of experience. 941-705-7096.

RENTALS

a NN a mar I a gu L f beachfront vacation rentals. one- two- and three-bedroom units, all beachfront. www.amiparadise.com. 941778-3143.

commercIaL LeaSe: 419 Pine ave., anna maria. Island real estate, Larry chatt, 941 345-1288.

gorgeouS amI coNdo for rent: Spectac ular waterfront views, renovated 2Br/2Ba contact Brooke, 240-893-8081.

KeY roYaLe: 2Br/2Ba dock, pool, through Jan. 7. gil, 813-943-3572. vrBo.18876.

HoLmeS BeacH 2Br/2Ba. Beautifully fur nished duplex with garage, includes water. WIfI and Spectrum. $2,800/month plus elec tric. 941-778-2824.

S ma LL e X ecu TI ve off I ce available. approximately 550 sf. gulf drive exposure. Water and electric included, $850/month. $500 deposit. 5386 g ulf d rive, Suite 101, Holmes Beach. 941-746-8666.

REAL ESTATE

WINNI e mc H a L e , rea LT or , 941-5046146. rosebay International realty Inc. You need an aggressive and experienced real tor in today’s market! Selling island homes, Sarasota and Bradenton areas. multi-milliondollar producer! “Selling Homes - m aking dreams come True.”

afforda BL e rea L e STaT e services for buyers, sellers, property management or rentals. call fred flis, 941-356-1456.

LoT for SaLe. 10,000 sf buildable water front lot with utilities in Bradenton. d ock with boat lift. Seawall maintained by city. $500,000. 917-860-1917.

words: $20. 31-45 words: $40.

Getting the glory at the gala

chamber board members Bob Slicker, left, and Katy demick celebrate the 2023 Business of the Year awards with the winners: Nonprofit of the Year, friends of manatee county animal Services, accepted by caryn Hodge; Tami and don goudy, who accepted for the Small Business of the Year, veritas! Pest management; Island gallery West president Jody goldman and amI chamber liaison darryl goldman, who accepted for the Large Business of the Year, Island gallery West; and felicia goett, who accepted for the medium Business of the Year, Blooms by the Beach. The celebration took place Nov. 18 at the Img academy golf club in Bradenton. Islander Photos: courtesy amIcofc/Lisa e. Photography

maria Island chamber of commerce awards ceremony and gala at the Img academy golf club in Bradenton.

chamber directors eric cairns and Karen LaPensee exchange words at the podium Nov. 18 during the anna

LefT: amI chamber of commerce president Terri Kinder addresses the audience at the organization’s annual gala, held Nov. 18 in Bradenton.

capt. Scott moore accepts the rotary club of anna maria Island’s Person of the Year award at the gala Nov. 18 in Bradenton.

an audience, including anna maria mayor dan murphy, right, and rotary club of anna maria Island member dennis Schuermann, center, shows its appreciation Nov. 18 at the chamber awards.

Chamber to honor volunteers

The Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce will show its appreciation for volunteerism during an annual party Dec. 6.

The chamber plans to recognize 18 volunteers with gift bags containing donations from members.

“This is an excellent opportunity to show your appreciation to our outstanding chamber volunteers who work in our office greeting visitors, answering our phones and recommending your businesses daily,” read an announcement from the chamber encouraging member contributions to the celebration.

The chamber also is collecting contributions for the Toys for Tots drive on the island through Thursday, Dec. 15.

For more information, call the chamber at 941778-1541 or visit the chamber at 5313 Gulf Drive N., Holmes Beach.

BizCal

Friday, Dec. 2

compiled by Lisa Neff

THIS WEEK

5-8 p.m. — Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce holiday tree lighting at the chamber, 5313 Gulf Drive, and holiday open houses, Gulf and Marina drives, Holmes Beach. Tree lighting at 6 p.m. Info: 941-778-1541.

Saturday, Dec. 3

3-9 p.m. — Bridge Street Merchants’ Holiday Fair and Boat Parade, Bradenton Beach. Best viewing: Historic Bridge Street Pier and Longboat Pass Bridge. Info: 941-778-2288.

ONGOING

Second Fridays through April, 5:30-7:30 p.m., City Center Artwalk and Shop, Gulf and Marina drives, Holmes Beach. Info: 941778-6648.

SAVE THE DATE

Dec. 8, LBK Chamber, Off the Clock, Harry’s, Longboat Key. Dec. 9, Anna Maria Holiday Walk of Treasures, Anna Maria. Dec. 16, Manatee Chamber holiday party, Bradenton. Dec. 17, Bridge Street Merchants’ Christmas on Bridge Street, Bradenton Beach.

MarketWatch

Anna Maria. Median listing: $3.6 million, trending up 40.8%. Median sold: $2.2 million. Listings: 56, $650,000-$8.5 million.

Bradenton Beach. Median listing: $1.1 million, trending down 3.2%.

Median sold: $762,500. Listings: 40, $295,000-$6.9 million.

Holmes Beach Median listing: $1.7 million, trending up 25.9%.

Median sold: $1.1 million. Listings: 77, $250,000-$12 million.

This is the 2BR/2BA condo at One Particilar Harbour you’ve been waiting for with a stunning sunset view. Turnkey furnished, ready to move in or rent. Becky Smith or Elfi Starrett 941-773-1954 #A4552479. $975,000

3340 E. Bay Drive, HB Office 941 462 4016

BY SAMUEL A DONALDSON / EDITED BY WILL SHORTZ

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

By Lisa Neff