C.J. Bannister named Woman Vet of Year by Sarasota County Veterans Commission

C.J. Bannister named Woman Vet of Year

MANATEE -- C.J. Bannister, Goodwill Manasota director of the veterans services, was named the John H. McLain 2015 Woman Veteran of the Year by the Sarasota County Veterans Commission.

Bannister, an U.S. Air Force veteran, was hired in September 2014 by Goodwill.

Bannister has overseen services to returning veterans, who face heightened risks of unemployment, personal problems and homelessness. The Veterans Services Program helps eliminate barriers to employment and provides opportunities for higher-paying positions, as well as connecting veterans with social services and support to help reintegrate into families, communities and jobs.

Bannister was previously a Goodwill ambassador for the nonprofit organization, and served on its board. She serves on Goodwill's Veteran's Task Force and assists numerous veterans' organizations in the community.

Anna Maria Island Privateers announce Christmas parade

ANNA MARIA ISLAND -- The Anna Maria Island Privateers annual Christmas Parade begins at 10 a.m. Dec. 12 at Bay Front Park. This free parade is open to all. To participate, apply at amiprivateers.org.

The parade will go the length of the island ending at Coquina Beach, where Santa will board the Flagship "Skullywag" where children can to sit on Santa's lap. Hotdogs, chips and soda will also be provided.

Information: John "Capt. Red Beard" Swager at 941-920-3989.

Defense media director to speak in Manatee

MANATEE -- Ray Shepherd, director of defense media activity, U.S. Department of Defense, will speak at the next Broadcasters Club of Florida luncheon at SaraBay Country Club at noon Friday, Dec. 11. Doors open at 11:30 a.m.

Shepard's responsibility includes management of Armed Forces Radio & Television, one of the world's largest broadcast networks that extend to 175 nations using international satellites to provide nine channels of television, 12 satellite radio services and 10 streaming radio services. There are ongoing tests involving streaming of all Armed Forces Network services to those in remote locations. Current audience is 400,000.

Lunch costs $20 per members, $25 for non-members.

Information: broadcastersclub.com.

-- Herald staff reports

This story was originally published November 27, 2015 at 12:00 AM with the headline "C.J. Bannister named Woman Vet of Year by Sarasota County Veterans Commission ."