that George Bush's little black terrier Barney bit a reporter right after the election . Barney, currently the only black male living in the White House, was probably a little ticked-off since hearing that some common mutt will become the nation’s new First Pet. So how did Treasure Island wag the dog this election year? Basically:

• Voter turnout was in the high seventies to low eighties, much like our weather.
• Three Treasure Island precincts are red and one is blue.

The change you were promised ...
shows up in, of all places, your utility bill! Next month, we convert over to the Pinellas County Utilities billing system. Your postcard utility bill will be a thing of the past, like the Bushes, replaced by a new, charismatic billing statement. On your current postcard bill (appearing any day now in a mailbox near you) you will see NO charges for Solid Waste or Recycling. This is because of complicated billing cycle formulas that are harder to comprehend than condo association rules. Anyway, you're not off the hook - these charges will appear on your new billing statement next month. If you have questions about your NEW BILL, call 727-464-4000.

Remember when we blew up our old bridge?
They'll be blowing up parts of the old John's Pass Bridge next Thursday, November 20th around 8am, although we're informed there won't be much to see because all the really neat explosions are underwater. The bridge will close to traffic about an hour before detonation. In case you missed that rare moment in Treasure Island history where dynamite meets a large piece of concrete infrastructure, you can watch it here.

Holiday Happenings
Downtown Parade and Tree Lighting
Saturday, December 6th. Parade at 4:30, tree lighting at 6pm. The Big Guy in the Red Suit and his wife visit the Community Center after the parade.
Santa's Mailbox
Open December 1st thru 12th at TI City Hall. Include a return address for a letter from "he sees you when you're sleeping, he knows when you're awake"
Lighted Boat Parade
Sunday, December 14th. Parade leaves TI Tennis & Yacht Club at 6:20pm and heads to John's Pass. Click here for choice public viewing spots
Recreation Day Camp for Kids
Starts Monday, December 22nd. $20 a day to keep your kids from driving you crazy over the holiday break. 547-4575 ext. 237
Tennis & Golf Camps for Kids
9am to Noon beginning Monday, December 22nd at Treasure Bay. 360-6062