FREE
VOL 15 No. 8
December 17, 2014
Recall efforts forge ahead A recall petition will be made available to city voters this week. BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
BRADENTON BEACH – The efforts to initiate a special election to decide the fate of Mayor Bill Shearon took another step forward Friday morning. Former Bradenton Beach Commissioner Pete Barreda personally presented to the city clerk’s office a statement of organization of a political committee on behalf of Barreda the Committee to Recall William Shearon. “The issues have been well documented. Instead of all the back and forth, let’s have a recall vote. Let the citizens decide and then move forward one way or the other, and get back to normalcy” Barreda said, when discussing the matter Saturday afternoon. see recall, page 10
Residential parking plan taking shape Residents will be able to purchase passes for $10 allowing them to park on residential streets. BY PAT COPELAND SUN STAFF WRITER | pcopeland@amisun.com
TOM VAUGHT | SUN
HOLMES BEACH – Commissioners put in gear a proposal to eliminate street and right of way parking in residential areas, but at least one resident wanted to put the brakes on it. “We’re losing our sense of hospitality. This is not a way to ease congestion. You’ll increase congestion because you will reduce the number of places people can park. More people will be driving around looking for places to park,” resident and restaurant owner Sean Murphy told the board. Jayne Christensen, the new chair of the Island Congestion Committee, presented the plan to commissioners, giving each one a binder that included the proposal, a resident parking permit application, examples of resident parking decals and prices and examples of ordinances from other beach commu-
Santa appeared to be a curiosity for 22-month-old Wyatt Chist, of Bradenton, at the Anna Maria Island Privateers’ gathering at Coquina Beach following their annual Christmas parade last Saturday. See more coverage of the Island’s festivities on Pages 42-45.
see parking, page 47
The holidays come to the Island INSIDE NEWS OPINION Sun survey Weddings outdoors football fever Town Crier crossword
4 6 7 18-21 30-31 36-37 49 51
Everyone was
Man charged with trying to lure
smiling at Anna Maria’s Holiday of Treasures. 3
children into car. 9
Anna Maria Island, Florida
Boat parade lights up the night. The Island’s award-winning weekly newspaper
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DECEMBER 17, 2014
Unwrap the Gift Of Hands-Free Luxury
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DECEMBER 17, 2014
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Holiday spirit shines in Anna Maria Visitors enjoyed food, drinks and entertainment at the city’s shops and galleries. BY PAT COPELAND SUN STAFF WRITER | pcopeland@amisun.com
ANNA MARIA – The air was filled with holiday spirit as crowds gathered along Gulf Drive and Pine Avenue to Bayview Plaza to celebrate the Holiday of Treasures on Friday night. Valerie Wilson, of the AMI Historical Society, which sponsored the event with The Sun, said, "The Historical Society would like to thank the participating businesses for their generous gifts which made the two prize tote bags so valuable. “We hope all the stores had the same wonderful turn out that we had at the museum. We thank that Roser children's choir for their great performance. The children sounded terrific despite the chill in the air." The event’s traditional opening was at the AMI Historical Museum with Roser’s Joyful Noise Children’s Choir singing holiday favorites. Carol Clements, who came to hear her granddaughter sing, said, “This is a really wonderful event.”
Nearby, Judy Hildman confided, “In October, I start looking forward to this event. It’s such a fun evening.” Meanwhile across Crescent Drive at Vinny and Cheryl’s Italian Kitchen revelers were making short work of a 225-square-foot margarita pizza that Vinny said took him about four hours to make. Although they missed the pizza, Sandee Pruett and Mark Kimball still declared the evening “magical,” and Sandee said, “Spectacular. The spirit is alive in Anna Maria. I wouldn’t miss it because we look forward to seeing all our friends.” At A Room with a Hue, AnnMarie and Ed Nichols were busy pouring wine, while Bob and Elaine Carley declared, “We come every year; we really like it.” At Shiny Fish Emporium people delighted in falling snow and at Pink and Navy, Jennifer Davey was signing bingo cards for customers while Jen Laney was wheeling 3-month-old Bryce, the evening’s littlest shopper, in his stroller. “It’s great,” Jen said. “It puts everyone in a holiday spirit,” and her mother Laura O’Donnell, added, “I’ve never seen it this busy.”
maggie field | SUN
Tilly Outhwaite, 6, of England, enjoys the snow at AMI Sun Plaza during Anna Maria's Holiday of Treasures. At Poppo’s Taqueria, Patrick Coleman was pouring a spiced pumpkin ale from Sarasota’s Big Top Brewery for happy visitors, and at The Studio, people were having their caricatures drawn by Michael Wory.
On the other side of Pine Avenue, Ava Harlan admired the headbands at Salon Salon while her mother, Morgan, said, “We came for the kids. Everything is so festive and everybody is so friendly.” At the Anna Maria Olive Oil Outpost, Tom Aposporos was pouring Campari and the lines were out the door to sample Kelly Kary’s gourmet delights. Down the road, visitors also lined up at Beach Bums, but this time for tasty grilled hot dogs and burgers. On Gulf Drive, snow fell in The Sun Plaza parking lot while Santa listened to children’s wishes and dreams. Merchants there offered pulled pork sliders and rice and beans catered by Ezio Piccione, while Dips added ice cream and Lava Lava served pineapple upside down cake. The winners of the decorating contest were Olive Oil Outpost, first, and Duncan Real Estate, second. Lisa Boleen and Alesha Branden won totes filled with gifts donated by merchants.
**** See more Holiday of Treasures photos on Page 43. ****
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ISLAND NEWS
Visit our website, www.amisun.com. Scan this code with your smartphone to go there.
DECEMBER 17, 2014
in brief
Watch for drainage and bridgework Two areas on the Island will be busy according to this week’s road report. The state will be working to improve drainage along Gulf Drive, from Coquina Beach to 13th Street. There could be lane closures from 8 p.m. to 6 a.m., Monday through Friday. Work continues on the Cortez Bridge. Crews will work on the bridge expansion bearings and joints, beams, fender wall, sidewalks and the electric system in the bridge tender house, including the generator. The Florida Department of Transportation urges motorists to exercise caution during the repair work. Motorists should note that driving across the bridge will feel bumpy due to the crews jacking the bridge to remove and replace the bridge expansion bearings. Crews will also work Friday nights from 9 p.m. to 6 a.m. through December for concrete pouring, weather permitting. Friday night is a backup night in case of bad weather. Work on this project includes general maintenance and repairs to the bridge span, beams, piling, seawall, and bridge tender house.
Robinson Preserve weekend events Join the Salt Marsh Explorers on Saturday, Dec. 20, from 1 to 2 p.m. at Robinson Preserve for a hike in the salt marsh. Be the first to check out the new WCIND-funded Explorer’s Backpacks, stuffed full of tools and activities to get you fully outfitted for an expedition. Break out the binoculars and get a bird’s eye view of the preserve’s avian inhabitants. Put your navigation skills to the test with a compass challenge. Call 941-748-4501 ext. 6039 to register. On Sunday, Dec. 21, from 9 to 11 a.m., Master Gardener Sam Starrett will take walkers on a relaxing stroll to see Robinson’s resident plants undergoing a colorful transformation. Call the Master Gardener office for reservations at 941-722-4524.
Commissioner liaison named Holmes Beach Mayor Bob Johnson has made the following liaison appointments: • Commissioner Judy Titsworth – roads, bridges, drainage, canals and erosion; code enforcement; alternate to Manatee County Emergency Operations; • Commissioner Jean Peelen – legislative; AMI Chamber of Commerce; Manatee County Council of Governments; Manasota League of Cities; • Commissioner Marvin Grossman – buildings and grounds; recreation, beautification and parks; alternate to the Manasota League of Cities; • Commissioner Pat Morton – recycling and solid waste; Manatee County Emergency Operations; police pension board; • Commissioner Carol Soustek– AMI Community Center and Island Congestion Committee.
joe hendricks | sun
From left, Alyce Brady, Chantelle Lewin, Dee Brady, Pat Roberts and Karen MacKay celebrate Dee Brady’s boat, Voyager, winning the boat parade’s grand prize for best decorations
Boat parade sets sail The parade participants had a grand time and helped collect holiday toys for youngsters. BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
BRADENTON BEACH – The 11th annual Cortez Yacht Club Holiday Lighted Boat Parade featured a brightly decorated, 12-vessel boat brigade that included power boats, sail boats, a trawler, a former Navy vessel, a well-known support boat, and a canoe piloted by Island visitors Jennifer Gosselin and Pierre Pépin. The group departed Moore’s Stone Crab restaurant around 6:30 p.m., after parade leader Randy Stewart, captain of the Karen Jane, gave the radio command to “light ‘em up.” Aboard the Bradenton Beach Police boat, Officers Eric Hill and Steve Masi accompanied the boaters along the Intracoastal Waterway, passing by the Historic Bridge Street Pier, underneath the Cortez Bridge lined with cheering spectators and over to the Seafood Shack in Cortez where the vessels circled offshore as judges aboard Ray Simmons’ yacht, Deep Cover, determined who had the best decorations. In addition to the fun and the beautiful display of lights, the real
purpose of the boat parade was to collect Toys for Tots to be distributed throughout Manatee County. Collection points were set up at Moore’s and at the Bridge Tender Inn, where the raucous after-party and awards ceremony took place. “We’ve been collecting the toys for a while now, and Annie’s Bait and Tackle, First Bank and the Bridge Tender have been among our biggest toy contributors,” said parade coordinator Laura Ritter. Members of the Marine Corps League Desoto Detachment #588 and the Desoto Unit of the Marine Corps League Ladies Auxiliary attended the ceremony and their presence prompted local musician Doug Bidwell and Bridge Tender Inn owner Fred Bartizal to lead the crowd in a heartfelt acappella rendition of “America the Beautiful” before the awards were handed out. The $500 grand prize and plaque went to Dee Brady and the crew of Voyager, whose traditional style decorations included a snow machine, a decorative kayak and a multitude of colored lights. Brady and Voyager gained local and international attention while accompanying swimmer Diana Nyad on her record-setting swim from Cuba to Florida. Cathy Cartier received a plaque and a $200 cash prize for the best decorated sail boat, Moonstruck.
Capt. Jeff Stephens and his mate, Lisa Bean, were awarded the same for the best decorated power boat, the Island Pearl, an old Navy vessel that now serves as a commercial party boat. The Island Pearl carried passengers in the parade and shuttled folks from the Seafood Shack to the Bridge Tender Inn afterwards. The canoers earned $50 for their efforts that included the use of a borrowed generator that powered borrowed holiday lights and decorations. Ritter presented yacht club member and Gulf Auto Clinic owner Pat Roberts with the first place sponsor’s plaque. The boat parade was organized by the Cortez Yacht Club and co-sponsored by the Bridge Street Merchants and The Sun. “We had a good parade, a good after-party; we collected a lot of toys and we thank Mother Nature for the weather. It’s a lot of work for the boaters, and it’s appreciated that they do this at their own time and expense; and it’s nice for the community too,” Ritter said afterwards.
**** See more boat parade photos on Page 42 ****
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DECEMBER 17, 2014
THE SUN
Tourism up, future favorable Resort tax funds pledged to AMI in 2014
BY CINDY LANE SUN STAFF WRITER | clane@amisun.com
HOLMES BEACH – Tourism is up, and part of the reason is that visitors feel at home here, the county’s tourism consultant, Walter Klages, told the Manatee County Tourist Development Council (TDC) last week. “You still have this quaint type of old-time Florida, not overrun by high rises,” said Klages, who included high quality restaurants and agritourism among the reasons for the increase. In the fourth quarter of the county’s fiscal year 2013-14 – July through September – visitation was up 7.2 percent from the same period in 2012-13, and direct expenditures were up 11.7 percent, according to Klages. Occupancy was up 3.5 percent to 64.2 percent, while average room rates were up 5.9 percent to $141.10 a night from the same period in 2012-13. In October, Floridians comprised the largest group of tourists to the county, but Europeans were close behind, comprising almost 21 percent of the market, he said, adding that Dutch and Czech tourists are among the visitors for the first time. Klages said he expected 5 percent growth in tourism in the near future. “I think it all comes down to two things
CINDY LANE | SUN
The new visitor information center at Manatee Public Beach is nearly complete and expected to open soon. that ought to be part of our message – this really is an authentic place and it’s sustainable,” TDC member and Island restaurant owner and developer Ed Chiles said. “I don’t think there’s another market I know of that’s preaching sustainability, and I think we ought to be talking more about it.” In other business: • A new Bradenton area visitor’s guide has been published with two different covers, one featuring Robinson Preserve aimed at prospective eco-tourists. They will be available free at chambers of commerce,
city halls and online at www.bradenton gulfislands.com. • The Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau won three Adrian awards, two silvers and a bronze, for marketing efforts directed at sports tourism, summer tourism and “mancations” (men’s vacations, particularly for fishing). • Manatee County Commissioner Carol Whitmore advised the TDC that marketing efforts should be made to educate visiting fishermen not to use sabiki rigs, which frequently hook pelicans.
• Bridge Street Pier (one-time expenditure) $1,000,000 • Beach renourishment $709,414 • Manatee Public Beach/Coquina Beach cleanup $100,000 • Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce $85,950 • Manatee Public Beach/Coquina Beach Bayfront Park changing stations (one-time expenditure) $50,000 • Manatee Public Beach visitor center (one-time expenditure) $45,000 • Manatee Public Beach restroom renovation (one-time expenditure) $45,000 • Symphony on the Sand event (one-time expenditure) $30,000 • Manatee Public Beach/Coquina Beach Bayfront Park bike racks (one-time expenditure) $25,000 • Manatee Public Beach sign replacement (one-time expenditure) $20,000 • SandBlast event (one-time expenditure) $6,000 • Manatee Public Beach visitor center operations (per year for 5 years) $5,000 _______________________________ TOTAL $2,121,364
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OPINION
The Anna Maria Island Sun newspaper Island Sun Plaza, 9801 Gulf Drive P.O. Box 1189 Anna Maria, FL 34216-1189 Phone: (941) 778-3986 e-mail: news@amisun.com | ads@amisun.com | classifieds@amisun.com
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DECEMBER 17, 2014
GUEST COLUMN Raise the Skullywag BY SUE NORMAND SPECIAL TO THE SUN
I just got home from a visit to family up north, and saw the news about the accident that all but destroyed the Skullywag - unbelievable! This is a "float" known to all Islanders for its participation in local parades, but even more so as a symbol of the Privateers - an organization that helps its community and members of our community whenever and wherever possible. The Privateers give scholarships to local students, donates to the Island Community Center and other local charities, and to individuals who need assistance, including me, when I was shot by an assailant several years ago. My heart goes out to the Privateers on the loss of the Skullywag and to Bob Dominas for suffering in the crash. Kudos to him for his concern for those that hit him - in true Privateer fashion. Wishing Bob a speedy recovery. Please let the community know how we can help with repair or replacement of your "ship" - it's our turn to show our gratitude for all the help the Privateers have given over the years. I am certain that everyone will want to help.
A
t press time, it was still unclear how extensive the damage is to the Skullywag. The vehicle was hit broadside on Saturday, Dec. 6 on U.S. 41 in Sarasota after appearing in the Sarasota Christmas parade. Fortunately, no one was hurt in the accident, but the Skullywag is not road-worthy at the moment and could not be used in the Privateers Christmas parade this past Saturday on the Island. The "ship" is built on the frame of an old school bus and the front end and motor come from an old Ford Econoline van. So it's not like the Privateers can just get a loaner replacement while the Skullywag is in the shop for repairs. Everyone is hoping the vehicle can be salvaged, and many Christmas wishes have been sent to Santa to either get the Skullywag back on the road or somehow come up with a different pirate ship. Who knows? Maybe St. Nick's reindeer are up for a little moonlighting.
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
Too little, too late? This is the excuse Anna Maria city commissioners used to approve the conditional use permit for the proposed cell tower in Anna Maria. Note the word proposed - this means that there is still time to really look at what the city is about to allow in the center of the jewel, which is Anna Maria. No care or consideration was given to the actual negative aspects of the proposal. The 162-foot high cell tower, with its associated 33 feet x 90 feet metal platform, which is 25 feet high, is to be positioned at the South East corner of the City Hall Park, right on Spring Avenue. It may appear that I am the lone voice at the city meetings, trying to make the commission aware of how the typical citizen is going to perceive this juggernaut landing in
The Anna Maria Island Sun Staff Publishers Mike Field Maggie Field Editor/CEO Mike Field
the center of our village, but many people in close proximity to city hall and their very expensive real estate are going to be impacted for many years to come. If, as the commission claims, we have been talking about the cell tower in Anna Maria for 10 years, what is another six months delay, if, by using this time to relocate the tower and equipment platform means that some of the negative impacts of the installation can be minimized? Moving the tower platform location to the very center of the City Park will go a long way to shielding it behind the trees from surrounding streets and make it less intrusive to the owners and all our visitors who come here year after year, especially for our small village ambience. Alternatively, the tower could be placed on the newly purchased six lot site located by the city pier, as it is mostly
Layout Ricardo Fonseca
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commercial uses in that area and will minimally impact residential housing. One voice should be enough to make the commissioners pause in this case, as the ramifications of their action will be with us for a very long time. There are other silent home owners who have made their thoughts known to the city in writing over the last several months, but they have been ignored. It is not the case of having waited until the last minute to speak up. We have all been considered collateral damage for the greater good the city is doing, as one commissioner opined in her thoughts. The commission appears to be dazzled by the initial reported $350,000 payment from the cell tower company and salivating over the probable see LETTERS, page 7
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DECEMBER 17, 2014
THE SUN
the sun survey
on the agenda
LAST WEEK’S QUESTION: Would you sign a petition to recall Bradenton Beach Mayor Bill Shearon?
Anna Maria
9%
No. The mayor has done nothing to warrant such procedures.
12/18: City Commission meeting, 6 p.m. For information, call 7086130.
107 Gulf Drive N.
12/17: Pier Team, 11 a.m. 12/18: City Commission meeting, noon. For information, call 7781005.
Holmes Beach 5801 Marina Drive
None scheduled For information, call 7085800.
Island-Wide
91% THIS WEEK’S SURVEY
• Yes. I'm tired of my calls being dropped in midsentence. Do you favor building the proposed cell tower in Anna Maria?
• No, what they're planning will be an eyesore and completely out of scale.
Results are printed on this page every week in the Anna Maria Island Sun.
LIKE us on our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/AnnaMariaIslandSun Email your favorite sunset photo of the week to sunfb@amisun.com and we will post the best one on our SUNset Sundays.
LETTERS FROM PAGE 6
income to the city from the lease payments, in spite of and without regard to the visual pollution necessary to accomplish this. It is odd that they will take money from this developer and accept a massive eyesore, but are vehemently opposed to other devel-
opers building large residential dwellings in the city. In the next few years, the commissioners will move on, cell phone service technology will probably improve and change the need for actual cell towers, but our megalithic contraption will be with us forever. I am appealing to the residents
12/17: Coalition of Barrier Island Elected Officials, Holmes Beach City Hall, 2 p.m. 12/18: West Manatee Fire Commission work session on fire prevention ordinance, 6417 Third Ave. W., Bradenton, 5 p.m. 12/18: West Manatee Fire Commission meeting, 6417 Third Ave. W., Bradenton, 6 p.m.
of Anna Maria: please go and look at the similar cell tower platform being built in Bradenton Beach, then make your views known to the commission in the hope they will come to their collective senses and revisit this issue. Geoffrey Sugden Anna Maria
Holiday schedule
The Island Branch Library and the offices of city of Anna Maria and Bradenton Beach will be closed on Dec. 24 and 25 and on Jan. 1. The offices of the city of Holmes Beach and the Island Community Center will be closed Dec. 25 and 26 and Jan. 1. The Island Community Center will close at 6 p.m. on Dec. 31. The offices of the West Manatee Fire District will be closed Dec. 24 through 26 and Jan. 1. Tingley Memorial Library will close at noon on Dec. 24 and 31 and be closed Dec. 25 through 27 and Jan. 1. There will be no Waste Management or Waste Pro solid waste or recycling collection. All Waste Management residential collections will resume the next day. All Waste Pro residential collections will resume the next regularly scheduled collection day.
mark your calendar Note: Events are free unless indicated.
Saturday Dec. 20
Wednesday Dec. 17
To vote, go to www.amisun.com or scan this code to vote by smartphone. But don't just vote – let us know what else you think. Send your comments about this week's topic to news@amisun.com or post them in the comments section of our website.
12/19: ULI Committee, Anna Maria City Hall, 9 a.m.
10005 Gulf Drive
Bradenton Beach
Yes. The mayor's conduct justifies a recall effort.
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Early Settler’s Bread for sale, AMI Historical Museum, 402 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., $5.
Thursday Dec. 18
Friend’s of the Island Library Book Club, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m. Successful Women Aligning Together, Bridge Street Bistro, 111Guf Drive, Bradenton Beach, 11:45 a.m. to 1:15 p.m. Members, $12, guests, $17. RSVP to swatami@gmail.com Knitting/crochet group, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2 p.m.
Friday Dec. 19
Tau Chi and Qigong class, Robinson Preserve, 99th Street Northwest and 17th Avenue Northwest, Bradenton, 9 to 10 a.m. Reserve to 941-742-5757, ext. 6.
Sneak peek shutter stroll, Perico Preserve, north side of Palma Sola Causeway, east of Harbour Isle development, 8 to 10 a.m. Reserve to 941-742-5757, ext. 9. Salt march explorers, Robinson Preserve, 99th Street Northwest and 17th Avenue Northwest, Bradenton. Register to 941-748-4501, ext. 6039, Holiday family movie/ craft, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 1 p.m. Luminary Walk, De Soto National Memorial, end of 75th Street, Bradenton, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Sunday Dec. 21
Master Gardener tour, Robinson Preserve, 99th Street Northwest and 17th Avenue Northwest, Bradenton, 9 to 11 a.m. Reserve to 941-7224524. Beach Market, Coquina Beach, Bradenton Beach, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
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THE SUN
DECEMBER 17, 2014
AMI Centre holiday At left, visitors help themselves to pasta and meatballs made by financial advisor Stephen Tavano at Edward Jones. At right, Lightning Jack plays the steel drum at Holy Cow. Below, Barry Morrison gets a taste of homemade vegetable soup from Linda Loscalzo at Peach’s.
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Show us your receipt from holiday shopping and save. Here’s the holiday break you need: During the month of December, bring in any receipt from your holiday shopping and get $10 off any dining purchase of $25, or $20 off any $50 purchase. Your receipt is your ticket to savings!
Anna Maria Island 941.778.0444
North Bradenton Beach 941.779.2222
North Longboat Key 941.383.2391
Gratuities not included. Offer good thru December 24, 2014.
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DECEMBER 17, 2014
THE SUN
City to allow rentals to continue Resident Maureen McCormick and a group of citizens are working on a vacation rental ordinance with input from rental agents. SUN STAFF WRITER | tvaught@amisun.com.
H O L I S T I C
Man charged with trying to lure AMI children Police also charged him with drug and drug paraphernalia possession and driving on a suspended license.
BY TOM VAUGHT
ANNA MARIA – The attorney hired to determine whether the city can control short-term rentals, faced the city commission at a work session last week, explaining his findings and making suggestions for the city to consider. David Levin said when the city’s ordinance defining single-family detached homes was drawn up, it did not include short-term rentals. That same ordinance, which was written in 1996, was in effect on June 1, 2001, when the state enacted statute took away a city’s right to control rentals unless the city had controls already in effect. He said not defining short-term rentals as single-family detached under that ordinance made them an illegal use. After explaining his findings, Levin said if the citizens want to effectuate what is written, they could enforce that prohibition through their elected officials. If the citizens want to move forward with rentals, he would want to see the city change the working of its ordinance. He said if commissioners allow
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BY TOM VAUGHT SUN STAFF WRITER | tvaught@amisun.com
ment from a judge as to the legality of the ban? Levin said no, because the owners could appeal in the second district court of appeal. “I’m not going to try to sugarcoat this, if someone with money fights it, they could make it expensive if the city wins because the city cannot regain its expenses if it wins,” Levin said. “The city could make what’s there non-conforming and stop the new ones.” When asked about the possible expense, Levin said he thought it could be $100,000 or more, but not much more. Levin said the city could make it
HOLMES BEACH – Police arrested a 22-year-old man from Ellenton and charged him with trying to entice three 10-year-old children into his vehicle in the 2800 block of Avenue at about 9:40 a.m. on Saturday, Dec. 13. Enrique Machuca was arrested, booked and released on bail totaling $9,620 later. He was charged with enticing a child under 12 years old three times, possession of methamphetamines and synthetic marijuana, possession of a prescription drug without Machuca a valid prescription and driving with a suspended license. Holmes Beach Police responded to the 2800 block of Avenue C on a report of a Hispanic man with a thin moustache driving a pearl colored sedan asking three children if they wanted a ride. An officer saw the suspect turning turn onto Gulf Drive from 3200 block of Sixth Avenue. He failed to stop on a red light before making a turn. The officer had to turn around to catch up with the suspect, who accelerated rapidly on Gulf Drive. The suspect stopped after seeing the officer’s red
SEE RENTALS, PAGE 46
SEE ENTICE, PAGE 47
tOM VAUGHT | SUN
Attorney David Levin discusses the city's situation in regard to controlling rental properties with the city commission while Commissioner Nancy Yetter reads notes. rentals that already exist and make the owners get licenses, they should amend the code so that short-term rentals could be a use in residential neighborhoods. Levin said if the citizens want to effectuate what is written, they could enforce that prohibition through their elected officials. If the citizens want to move forward with rentals, he would want to see the city change the working of its ordinance. Levin said they could give owners time to stop renting their houses and he said he does not see any legal impediment to enforce the ban now. Commissioner Doug Copeland asked if they enforce the law now, would they need a declaratory judg-
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THE SUN
DECEMBER 17, 2014
City leaders react to recall plan The mayor and vice mayor both favor a recall vote over a commission-initiated forfeiture of office hearing. BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
BRADENTON BEACH – Mayor Bill Shearon and Vice Mayor Jack Clarke rarely see eye-to-eye these days, but they both agree that the mayor’s future should be decided by city voters. When contacted Friday afternoon, Shearon and Clarke shared their views on the recall effort being initiated by former City Commissioner Pete Barreda. “I’m not happy that it’s happening, but this way the voters get to have their say. If you like the job I’m doing then keep me, if you don’t like it, that’s the voter’s choice,” Shearon said. That said, the mayor feels the commission should rescind the recently adopted forfeiture resolution that was created to provide the procedural
framework for removing an elected official from office. “That resolution should not be hanging over any commissioner’s head; and that would address my lawsuit,” he added, making reference to the lawsuit he recently filed against the city in an effort to prevent the commission from suspending him. Shearon pointed out that he has yet to see the forfeiture charges Clarke intended to present against him, which makes it more difficult for him to address the vice mayor and commission’s concerns regarding his job performance and leadership of the city. Clarke said he too prefers a recall election to a commission-led forfeiture hearing, and he agrees that the voters should decide Shearon’s fate. He said he is willing to put the forfeiture discussions on hold while the recall effort unfolds, but he is not yet ready to cast aside the forfeiture resolution. “Not yet. Ask me this question when the date is set for the recall election,” Clarke said. “Other commissioners have stated
joe hendricks | sun
Mayor Bill Shearon reacts during a recent commission discussion pertaining to his potential removal from office that there are problems, and we need to get to the bottom of them. The recall election will not get to the bottom of these specific problems, and there are items other commissioners felt needed airing out. If we forego the option of forfeiture at this point, and some
requirement of the recall process is not met, then we no longer have recourse,” he added. “We can stop the forfeiture proceedings without rescinding the resolution. The resolution is good, and we needed it because the charter did not address the situation. The resolution was not written just for the mayor, and we never adopted the charges against Mr. Shearon because the whole thing got sidetracked when he refused to recuse himself (at a recent forfeiture meeting).” Shearon questions whether the recall petitioners can even gather the required number of petition signatures. Clarke said if that were to happen, it would send a clear message to him that the citizens do not want the mayor removed from office, which, in turn, would discourage him from re-initiating the forfeiture process. Clarke also said he would respect the wishes of the voters and not continue with the forfeiture efforts if a special election takes place and Shearon is not recalled and removed from office.
recall: Effort moves forward FROM PAGE 1
In addition to being a former commissioner, Barreda is a longtime local restaurateur and a current member of the Gulf Drive Café management team. His family has a long history of political involvement in the city, and his mother, Dahlia, also served on the commission. “As a lifetime citizen of Bradenton Beach, I love my city, and I hate to see what’s going on,” Barreda said. He added that he respects all the commission members and has no history of disagreement or conflict with Shearon. Like many citizens who have spoken at recent city meetings, Barreda believes a decision rendered by city voters is preferable to a decision rendered by Shearon’s fellow commissioners. “Let’s try to do it this way; it’s more civil,” he said.
Barreda declined to name the specific political action committee (PAC) behind the recall committee. “I’ve been appointed as the president of the committee and the face of it, and I want to keep this as simple as possible,” he said. The next step in the recall process is to gather the signatures of least 100 Bradenton Beach residents who are registered to vote in the city. As of August, there were 763 active city voters. Barreda said the Gulf Drive Café is not part of the recall effort, but he will be sitting outside the restaurant, 900 Gulf Dr. N., Wednesday and Thursday afternoons from noon until 4 p.m. gathering signatures. Those interested can also get more information by e-mailing RecallShearon@gmail.com. Once the first dated signature is acquired, the committee has 30 days to submit them to the Supervisor of Elec-
Let’s try to do it this way; it’s more civil.” Pete Barreda Recall committee president
tions office for verification. There is no limit on the number of signatures that can be presented for verification, but they must all be presented at the same time. If the elections office cannot verify at least 100 signatures, the recall effort dies. No additional signatures can be gathered and submitted, and that would be the extent of this particular
political committee’s efforts; although a new recall committee could be formed and the process could be begun again. If 100 or more signatures are deemed legitimate, the process moves forward to a second round of signature gathering that would require approximately 115 signatures, and those who signed the first petition would be allowed to sign again. If a second round of signature gathering were successful, a recall election would be scheduled. If Shearon was voted out of office, Vice Mayor Jack Clarke, would serve as mayor until November 2015, and the commission would appoint a Ward 1 resident to fill Clarke’s commission seat. “If someone wants to pick up a petition paper and collect petition signatures, that’s great too. We welcome that,” Barreda concluded.
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DECEMBER 17, 2014
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Christmas comes early on Bridge Street Historic Bridge Street was once again transformed into a Christmas wonderland. BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT
BRADENTON BEACH - The Bridge Street Merchants hosted their annual Christmas on Bridge Street celebration Saturday afternoon and evening, transforming the Bridge Street Market lot into a holiday haven for visitors of all ages. Sponsored by The Sun and offering arts and crafts, baked goods, holiday decorations, food and drink, live music, pet adoptions and much more, Christmas on Bridge Street concluded with the announcement of the winners of the Chinese raffle that featured coveted prizes donated by local businesses, a 50-50 drawing and the much anticipated drawing for the wheelbarrow full of liquor and spirits
donated by the Drift In. After winning the wheelbarrow, Fish Hole owner Jake Spooner said, “I’m happy the charities did well and the community enjoyed the festivities. A big thanks for all the hard work by the merchants association and volunteers. I’ll drink to that.” Darcy Anderson, a visitor from Minnesota, won the 50/50 drawing, while dozens of happy folks took home prizes won in the Chinese raffle. As the raffles took place, merchants' association President Angela Rodocker said, “We are happy beyond belief with the turnout. This has been great. It’s been busy all day long, since we opened, and it hasn’t stopped. The money from the raffles will go to the Roser food bank and the Manatee food bank.”
See more Christmas on Bridge Street photos on Page 45. ****
Bridge Street was aglow with the holiday spirit, with festive palm trees illuminated by the Bridge Street Merchants and the outdoor Christmas Tree decorated by Bridge Street Interiors' Debbie Myers. joe hendricks | sun
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Winterfest draws art fans BY CINDY LANE SUN STAFF WRITER | clane@amisun.com
HOLMES BEACH – Art fans took advantage of beautiful weekend weather to enjoy the Anna Maria Island Art League's 27th Annual Winterfest Festival of Fine Arts and Crafts. Soaking up the sunshine to a backdrop of country music, they were treated to displays of stone sculpture oil lamps, paintings made from palm frond seed pods, handmade furniture, metal fountains and other artistic creations. Kids made take-home art at an activity area in the Young at Art children's art exhibit tent, where student submissions from local schools were displayed. Art supplies awards were donated by Keeton’s Office Supplies in Bradenton.
The winners are: “Young at Art” children’s exhibit High School: 1st place - Adam Ruelas - Southeast 2nd place - Priscilla Miller - Southeast 3rd place - Jake Mattrau - Southeast
Middle School:
1st place - Kaylee Bennet - Harlee 2nd place - Betty Jean - Harlee 3rd place - Antonio Fields - Harlee
CINDY LANE | sun
Above, Michael Van Houzen’s sculptures, “Songbirds of Wood,” were among the Winterfest displays; he won an Award of Distinction at the festival. Right, an Island Christmas tree featured hand painted ornaments by Alexas, of Alexas Makin Waves.
Elementary:
1st place - Johnathon Van Bueren - Mills 2nd place - Hannah King - Freedom 3rd place - Jaelyn Hendrickson - Freedom
Best of Show, $1,000 Linda Heath, fiber/paper
Awards of Distinction, $250
Dustin Cole, wood David and Victorine Campbell, sculpture Michael Van Houzen, wood Steve Whitlock, oils/acrylics
Awards of Merit, $100
George Bragg, metal Elizabeth Haughton, jewelry Babs Schnabl, mixed media Jinsheng Song, oils/acrylics Ann Wooster, graphics/pastels
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DECEMBER 17, 2014
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Christmas is a great time to adopt BY CINDY LANE
N
eed a gift for someone who has everything? How about adopting a threatened loggerhead sea turtle hatchling or an entire nest from Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring or adopting an endangered manatee from Save the Manatee Club? Turtle nest parents will be able to choose the wording on a personalized, handcrafted plaque that will be posted on a turtle nest on Anna Maria Island in 2015. They also will receive a letter of appreciation, a DVD of their nest, nesting data from their nest, such as how many turtles hatched from it, and surprise bonus gifts that could include a tote bag, temporary tattoos, bumper stickers and more. The $100 donation will help Turtle Watch protect sea turtles on the Island for future generations to enjoy. You can adopt a hatchling for $25, and will receive a photograph of your hatchling, a certificate and surprise bonus gifts. If you order before Jan. 1, you will receive a free 2014 wooden turtle Christmas ornament. Visit www.islandturtlewatch.com or the Turtle Watch booth at the
submitted
Coquina Beach Market every Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Are marine mammals more your style? A live Florida manatee with a known history can be adopted at www.savethem anatee.org, or by calling 1-800-4325646. An annual manatee adoption costs $25 and includes an adoption cer-
tificate, photo of a real endangered manatee, biography, membership handbook and newsletters throughout the year with updated reports on the manatees in the adoption program. A personalized holiday message is offered with each gift adoption. View the adoptees – Squeaky, Annie, Rocket, Whiskers and many more – at www.savethemanatee.org/
adoptees.html. Each new member who joins the Adopt-A-Manatee® program online for a $35 tax-deductible donation will also receive a 24 inches x 12 inches full-color, 2015 wall calendar. Funds from the adoption program go toward emergency rescue response for sick and injured manatees, and for waterway signage, public awareness, research and more.
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Š Minto Communities, LLC 2014. Not an offer where prohibited by state statutes. All rights reserved. Content may not be reproduced, copied, altered, distributed, stored or transferred in any form or by any means without express written permission Artistâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s renderings, dimensions, specifications, prices and features are approximate and subject to change without notice. Minto, the Minto logo, Harbour Isle and the Harbour Isle logo are trademarks of Minto Communities, LLC and/or its affiliates. CGC 1519880. 12/2014
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DECEMBER 17, 2014
Groins to be replaced BY TOM VAUGHT SUN STAFF WRITER | tvaught@amisun.com
The Manatee County Commission is considering a bid to replace the three groins along Cortez Beach with permeable, adjustable groins that can also be open to the public for walking or fishing. At a work session last week, they were told the bids for the work were opened Nov. 25, and county staff appears to favor Cayo, LLCâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s bid of $4.41 million. The three groins were initially put in to control erosion and provide a place to fish, but they were shut off to the public as they got old and two of them are now little more than partial piles of debris. Manatee County Natural Resources and Parks and Recreation Director Charlie Hunsicker decided to replace the groins with adjustable structures that could be fine-tuned to provide the most advantageous protection of the shoreline. Construction is expected to start next month, and the contract gives Cayo 285 days to finish the project. Hunsicker also said the county would align the channel at Longboat Pass to protect the shoreline at a cost between $2 and $4 million. The county estimates 240,000 cubic yards of material would be removed.
KAYAKS FLY-FISHING PADDLEBOARDS PERFORMANCE WEAR
Steve Traves Proprietor
tOM VAUGHT | SUN
This groin, one of three the county will replace at Cortez Beach, is actually in better shape than the others. The new groins will be adjustable so the county can maximize its ability to help build up the beach.
AMI OUTFITTERS Coastal Gear & Apparel
Open seven days 9 to 6 941-254-4996 505 Pine Avenue, Anna Maria amioutfitters.com
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DECEMBER 17, 2014
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It’s OK – everyone is emotional and irrational
I
recently attended Charles Schwab’s IMPACT Conference in Denver, an invitation-only annual gathering for registered independent investment advisors. One conference session of particular interest reviewed how emotions impact investing and provided tips on preventing behavioral biases from sabotaging long-term objectives. Investors often say one thing, but proceed to do the opposite. We want to act rationally. However, emotional biases are difficult to avoid and can easily interrupt our long-term investment goals. The hard truth is, investors are irrational. Don’t fight this fact, but make an effort to understand how to manage emotional biases. As Warren Buffett advised, “What you need is the temperament to control the urges that get other people into trouble in investing.” In order to reduce the potential for irrational decision making, investors should embrace volatility,
Investment Corner TOM BREITER ignore the noise and focus on what they can control. Volatility is the up and down movement of the stock market over time. The severity of these movements is not always the same. Understanding this behavior gives each investor an advantage, the understanding that volatility is part of investing. These up and down movements of the market present opportunities to buy when investments are low and sell when they are high. The second point – ignore the noise. We live in a digital and media driven world. Information is constantly at our fingertips. The best thing an investor can do is recognize that noise can be mislead-
[Jingle Bell]
[Jingle Bell]
ing. Take this headline from The Wall Street Journal, “U.S. markets tumble as fear spreads.” A reader would think this headline came straight from the financial crisis, but in reality it’s from Jan. 25, 2014, after the market was down only 3.1 percent from its all-time high. Remember, forecasts are not facts. We should all take time to stop and question if our decision making is being influenced by noise and, if so, take a step back, revisit your plan, investment time horizon and talk with your advisor before making any changes. Third, focus on what you can control, instead of focusing on market outcomes, volatility, economic policies and/or news content. Rather, turn your attention toward: • Investment allocation; • Risk exposure; • Rebalancing strategy; • Tactical adjustments; • Your behavior and reaction to volatility and noise.
[Jingle Bell]
What you can control is the foundation of your personal investment plan. Understanding your risk tolerance and your perception of loss will help you recognize what you are capable of. Every strategy begins with an investment goal, whether its saving for retirement, college or a second home, the point is to have an objective. Know who you are, create an investment allocation relevant to your risk tolerance, rebalance the strategy, make tactical adjustments and manage your emotions. If you have questions pertaining to your investment plan, contact us. We would be happy to help. Tom Breiter is president of Breiter Capital Management, Inc., an Anna Maria based investment advisor. He can be reached at 778-1900. Some of the investment concepts highlighted in this column may carry the risk of loss of principal, and investors should determine appropriateness for their personal situation before investing. www. breitercapital.com
[Rock]
For a Holiday Gift that Rocks … Beach Bistro Gift Certificates; On-site or Online.
ZAGAT: Top Restaurants in America “Best Food on the Gulf Coast”
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DECEMBER 17, 2014
Dara Caudill | www.islandphotography.org
Nataly Peterson and Seth Bailey were married at the Sandbar restaurant on Nov. 1, 2014. Patti McKee and Luis Ortiz, of the Sandbar, coordinated the wedding. The reception was held at the Studio at Gulf and Pine, and was coordinated by Julie and Tommy Fagen. Nataly and Seth honeymooned on Anna Maria Island before returning home to Little Rock, Ark.
Dara Caudill | www.islandphotography.org
Kimber Smail and Craig Benedict were married at the Gulf Drive Cafe and Tiki Hut on Dec. 6, 2014. Kelli Gray, of Gulf Drive Cafe and Tiki, coordinated the wedding. Kimber and Craig honeymooned on Anna Maria Island before returning home to Brighton, Mich.
Colleen Lawless and Mark Signor were married at the Sandbar restaurant on Nov. 14, 2014. Patti McKee and Luis Ortiz coordinated the wedding and reception. Colleen and Mark celebrated their engagement on Anna Maria Island earlier this year. Colleen and Mark honeymooned on Anna Maria Island before returning home to Watertown, N.Y. Dara Caudill | www.islandphotography.org
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DECEMBER 17, 2014
A Perfect Setting.. For Your Perfect Wedding
100 Spring Avenue Anna Maria Island 941.778.8709
200 Gulf Drive North Bradenton Beach 941.778.8718
groupersandwich.com
The Sandbar for perfect beach weddings The historic Sandbar restaurant, with its breathtaking sunsets, exceptional customer service and outstanding food, has, for decades, attracted couples celebrating marriages past. For eight years in a row, readers of “The Knot” have voted it the top ceremony and wedding site. Additionally, readers of weddingwire.com have given the Sandbar the Brides Choice Award for 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013 and 2014. The Sandbar restaurant pavilion is the most unique venue for weddings on the west coast of Florida. It is a stand-alone, open-air pavilion steps away from the Gulf of Mexico. It can comfortably seat 160 guests under the pavilion with additional seating available on its perimeter. The Sandbar’s special events staff and wedding coordinator, Patti McKee, will be with you throughout the planning and event stages. For an alternative indoor location for your rehearsal dinner or reception, consider The Studio at Gulf and Pine. It is a unique and elegant venue just one block north of the Sandbar. For more information on The Studio visitwww.studioatgulfandpine.com. For information on the Sandbar restaurant contact the special events department – Patti McKee, 7788709, pmckee@chilesgroup.com – for wedding date availability and all other questions. To read reviews, follow them on Facebook, Twitter, The Knot, and Weddingwire or see photos on www.groupersandwich.com or on http://pinterest.com/chilesgroup/.
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Body & Sol Spa – the Island wedding salon Anna Maria Island is “The Beach Wedding Capital of Florida” for many reasons. Not the least of which is the old world charm and Island elegance of the Body & Sol Spa. Just a stone’s throw from the beach, Body & Sol, is located above Ginny and Jane E’s in the historic Old IGA building at 9805 Gulf Drive. This large and spacious salon offers a relaxed Island setting certain to enhance any wedding day experience. The ambiance and décor is designed to capture that Island magic. Body & Sol combines old-fashioned hospitality with skilled and caring wedding salon specialists. From hair styling to bridal make-up, from facials to fabulous body treatments and shellac nails, they lavish their brides from head to toe. The unhurried atmosphere and experienced staff will help you achieve the look and feel of total beauty and Island radiance. Your special day is as important to them as it is to you. Body & Sol’s unique layout allows them to carefully craft and deliver a wedding party designed to meet any bride’s dreams. So whether your party is large or small, Body & Sol will cater to your needs. Make your bridal parties pre wedding experience a magic and memorable one, and let their expert staff beautify your Body while the sand and sun capture your SOL. For more information contact Trish Edwards at 941 6505441.
DECEMBER 17, 2014
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Linda DiGalbo and Mark Riley celebrated their wedding vows on the beautiful beach of the Sandbar restaurant on Nov. 12, 2014. Chuck Caudill played ukulele for the ceremony. Linda and Mark honeymooned on Anna Maria Island before returning home to Mechanicsburg, Penn. Dara Caudill www.islandphotography.org
Dara Caudill | www.islandphotography.org
Lisa Romero and Scott Taylor were married at the Sandbar restaurant on Nov. 9, 2014. Music was provided by Chuck Caudill. The wedding and reception were coordinated by Patti McKee and Luis Ortiz, of the Sandbar. Lisa and Scott honeymooned in St. Petersburg, Fla., before returning home to Mesa, Ariz.
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is sponsoring our
11TH ANNUAL TOYS FOR TOTS DRIVE
THE SUN
We are accepting NEW unwrapped toys at the following locations: ISLAND VACATION PROPERTIES 3001 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach
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DECEMBER 17, 2014
New mayor reflects on community Bob Johnson was elected mayor of Holmes Beach in his first attempt at political office on Anna Maria Island. BY TOM VAUGHT SUN STAFF WRITER | tvaught@amisun.com
HOLMES BEACH – Newly elected Mayor Bob Johnson made an appearance at the Kiwanis Club of Anna Maria Island on Dec. 5, and he spoke about what attracted him to the Island. “About 40 years ago, I found myself in Indonesia, working for the government,” he said. “It was my first time in a foreign country and for two years, I was absorbed and amazed by what I saw. There were many different people from different backgrounds with common thoughts and desires for the future of their lives.” Johnson said he was overwhelmed by the sense of community he saw and experienced, and he gave an example. “One night I was coming back from somewhere, and I wanted something to eat,” he said. “I didn’t have any cash, and all of the shops were cash only, but the owner of one
shop told me not to worry, I could pay him the next time I came in.” Jonson likened that situation to the way things were and still are on the Island. “Twenty years ago, my wife and I came here and thanks to dumb luck, we stayed,” he said. “After a couple of years I decided I had made the right choice. I rediscovered that feeling of community here.” Johnson said he remembered sitting in a meeting at the Anna Maria Island Community Center in its “one room days” wearing Bermuda shorts with others he knew. He knew this was where he wanted to be. “My wife and I traveled a lot before we got here, and I remember I was having my air conditioner repaired and I had to leave,” he said. “The air conditioning repairman told me, ‘Don’t worry, I’ll lock up when I’m through,’ and I never hesitated.” Johnson said the people on the Island are still the same. “I walked a lot of streets and visited with a lot of people when I campaigned, and I found that sense of community is still there,” he said. Johnson said people are here because they found a certain appeal, and they made an effort to make life slower and more like the time when they were growing up.
Fireworks to ring in 2015 The BeachHouse restaurant, 100 Gulf Drive N., Bradenton Beach, will host a fireworks show and New Year’s Eve party on Dec. 31. Guests will be seated inside or on the deck of the newly remodeled restaurant, and a limited number of tables under the covered pavilion will be available for $100 per table. Up to six people may sit at each table. The reserved tables will be ready by 9 p.m., and those seated at the tables will enjoy a champagne toast, party favors, music by Chuck Caudill and dancing. They will also have a close op view of the fireworks. Food and alcohol will be available for sale. For more information or to purchase a table, call 779-2222. For all who celebrate New Year’s Eve out, Manatee County Area Transit has announced the Island trolleys will run until 1 a.m. on New Year’s morning, Jan. 1.
tOM VAUGHT | SUN
Holmes Beach Mayor Bob Johnson told the Kiwanis Club he moved to Anna Maria Island, and in his neighborhood, he found a sense of community that is hard to find anymore.
FISH fights for mangroves During last week’s Florida Institute for Saltwater Heritage Christmas dinner, board member Jane von Hahmann discussed the organization’s efforts as a petitioner in an administrative challenge of a Southwest Florida Water Management District permit issued to a Pat Neal land trust. Neal was granted permission to remove environmentally sensitive mangroves in order to build a family complex on Perico Island, and the administrative hearing is expected to take place in February. joe hendricks | sun
‘Tis mullet season
The mullet are jumping again, drawing fishermen from Cortez and around the state to catch the females bearing eggs, called red roe, which is dried and processed into a high-dollar delicacy known as bottarga.
TOM VAUGHT | SUN
CINDY LANE | SUN
DECEMBER 17, 2014
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OUTDOORS
DECEMBER 17, 2014
Youth leaders aid Sarasota Bay Watch
O
ne of Sarasota Bay Watch’s (SBW) main agendas has been to build a strong base of youth volunteers who can learn and practice the leadership skills to carry on SBW’s mission of preserving and restoring Sarasota Bay's ecosystem into the future through education and citizen participation. Over the years, this work has been growing with the assistance of college and post graduate interns as well as college and high school interns. One of SBW’s first interns, Samantha Jones, helped kick-start the fishing line volunteer cleanups and was instrumental in developing and implementing the first Scallopalooza. That event laid the foundation for many of the subsequent fundraising efforts. Jones graduated from the University of Florida with an environmental engineering degree and is now actively employed as an environmental engineer. College intern Brant McCarville updated SBW’s social media campaign and integrated live Facebook posts into the Scallopalooza fund-raising program. Besides helping to organize and coordinate the volunteers, McCarville helped SBW increase the fund-raiser’s income from $14,000 in 2012 to over $25,000 in 2013. He graduated from the University of Florida with a business degree. Mote Marine intern Amy Johnson was involved in almost every SBW scallop release during 2012 and early 2013. She touched over 25 million scallop larvae during that time. Graduating from Cornell College, she has now begun a graduate study program in medical health care. Mote Marine intern Kevin Burnette was part of almost every SBW scallop release team in 2013 and helped
Reel Time RUSTY CHINNIS distribute and document the release of over 20 million scallops. Other Mote interns worked on the Community Partnership Scallop Restoration Initiative. They included Hilary Hastings, who is in a graduate study program in marine biology; Rebecca Richardson, who is also in graduate study in marine biology; and Isabella Soutullo, who intends to use scallops for her thesis project at New College. Zoe Myzyczka works on conducting surveys and is writing a report on the scallop surveys conducted to date. She helped create a survey to gauge changing community awareness about scallops and bay restoration over time. Another intern, Elspeth Boynton, contributed in development of environmental public policy. In other areas of the community, 27 Ringling College of Art and Design students worked on increased awareness of watershed issues and best practices, as well as promoted environmental stewardship. This was accomplished by creating interactive watershed display designs, interactive video quizzes, educational coloring books and animated informational videos. They also created printed take-away materials to enhance and extend the watershed learning experience. There were many high school volunteers over the past years including Tanner Stults who created a very
rusty chinnis | sun
Volunteers were a huge help at this year’s highly successful Scallopalooza. successful marine field guide for SBW entitled, “What the Heck is That?” This field guide has been donated to numerous school programs, youth sailing programs and environmental programs, as well as Manatee and Sarasota County parks and volunteer programs. Stults who also helped organize and run numerous volunteer events is currently studying business at Cornell University. In leadership roles high school and college students were instrumental in advancing SBW’s mission. Katie Stults help run numerous volunteer events and supported multiple Scallopalooza fundraisers. She eventually graduated from the University of Florida with a degree in elementary education and is seeking her master’s degree in education. Lauren Jeffrey, SBW’s first student board member was instrumental in multiple Scallopalooza fundraisers, volunteer events and scallop releases. She is
attending the University of Georgia. Zack Jordan, SBW’s second student board member is currently an active board member. In addition to participating over the years in SBW volunteer events, he uses the SBW marine field guide in a program he developed to take Boys and Girls Club kids out on the water for kayak nature tours. He is currently enrolled at Pine View High School. Delainey Deitz, SBW’s third student board member is currently an active board member. In addition to participating in SBW volunteer events, she is taking a leadership role in SBW’s social media campaign. Deitz is enrolled at Riverview High School. Rebecca Leopold has participated at various volunteer events and was in charge of photography at multiple Scallopalooza events. Leopold is currently attending Boston University. Other SBW high school student see reel time, page 31
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Look for reds on shallow flats Captain Rick Grassett
Anglers fishing with me on my Action Craft flats skiff the Snook Fin-Addict, out of CB's Saltwater Outfitters on Siesta Key, caught and released trout, Spanish mackerel and pompano in Sarasota Bay on flies and CAL jigs with shad tails during the past week. Anna Maria Island and Sarasota winter residents, Bill Morrison and Gary Marple, fished Sarasota Bay with me on Tuesday morning. A front passed through on Monday, and it was cool and windy. We fished deep grass flats on the east side of the bay, and despite tough conditions, they managed to catch and release a few trout to 17 inches, Spanish mackerel and ladyfish on Ultra Hair Clouser flies fished on a sink tip fly line. Walt Poxon, from Minnesota, and Bill and Sue Poxon, from Sarasota, fished Sarasota Bay with me on Wednesday. We fished deep grass flats on both sides of the bay where they caught and released trout and ladyfish on CAL jigs with shad tails. I gave a presentation at the Charlotte Harbor Fly Fishers (www.chff.us) in Punta Gorda that evening on fly fishing the coastal Gulf for tripletail and false albacore and night snook fishing. If you are in that area, you should check them out. Their members fish some of the most fertile waters in the state.
CAPTAIN RICK GRASSETT | submitted
Capt. Rick DePaiva, from Ft. Myers, with a big Pine Island Sound red caught and released on a Grasset Snook Minnow fly. My friend Capt. Rick DePaiva, from Ft. Myers, invited me to fish Pine Island Sound with him on Thursday. Conditions were right for reds to tail and they didn’t disappoint. We had numerous shots at tailing reds with a fly, hooked a couple, and Rick landed a beautiful over slot fish on my Grassett Flats Minnow fly. Chuck and Chase Banta, from Sarasota, fished Sarasota Bay with me on Friday. It was overcast and cool, but the action was good. We fished deep grass flats on both sides of the bay where they caught and released trout, Spanish mackerel, pompano and ladyfish on
Ultra Hair Clouser flies. It was Chase’s first time fly fishing in saltwater, and he did well, catching and releasing nice pompano and mackerel! Trout, blues, Spanish mackerel, Jacks and more should be good options on deep grass flats of Sarasota Bay. Look for reds and big trout mixed with mullet schools on shallow flats. Catch and release night snook fishing in the ICW is also a good option now. Fish peak tidal flows for the best action. Tripletail and false albacore should be good options in the coastal Gulf depending on conditions. Look for albies feeding near the surface and tripletail around crab trap buoys.
reel time: hedhe dhe hded FROM PAGE 1
volunteers active in promoting environmental stewardship and volunteerism include Rosalyn Delfino, Lexi Schnapp, Emily Schofield John Schofield and Christian Harris. Dozens of Mote high school student interns also helped measure and categorize fishing line and tackle removed from the bay during SBW monofilament clean up events. There has also been many middle school student volunteers working tirelessly with SBW. Tommy Johnson, Nathan Turoff and Jake Westman, who after
watching an interactive watershed demonstration at the Community Foundation of the Gulf Coast (CFGC) last year, stepped in and ran all the rest of the demonstrations at the 2103 CFGC Fall Family Festival. They returned for the 2014 Fall Family Festival and again demonstrated the power of students teaching students. They have introduced hundreds of young people and their families to watershed issues and good watershed practices. Other students that have been involved in assisting Sarasota
Bay Watch’s efforts include Ellie Martin, Scallopalooza; Jack Martin, Scallopalooza and scallop releases; Grace Johnson, CFGC Fall Family Festival, Nathan Turoff, CFGC Fall Family Festival; Finn Johnson, CFGC Fall Family Festival; and Jack Ryan, numerous scallop releases. If you know a student who is interested in the bay and would like to participate have them call 941-918-2700. As the SBW motto states, “A healthy bay is everybody’s business”
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DECEMBER 17, 2014
Science and support at AMI STEM Night The school raised money for art teacher Gary Wooten, who is battling throat cancer, with a dinner provided by Sean Murphy. BY TOM VAUGHT SUN STAFF WRITER | tvaught@amisn.com
HOLMES BEACH â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Enterprising Einsteins were out in force on Wednesday, Dec. 10, as Anna Maria Elementary School celebrated science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) during its annual science night. Museum of Science and Industry Education Outreach Director Urmila Wadnerkar gave two science shows on physics in the auditorium. She showed how objects effect each other and sent a plastic bottle flying across the stage by igniting a compound inside it. She would not name the compound, saying she did not want the kids to go home and use it that way. She also used a wheel on an axle to show how gyroscopes work. In the main school building, there were displays by students and agencies dealing in science. There was a plastic model of a community with hills and homes and students sprayed water on it to show how we get water to use for drinking, washing and raising plants. Santa was there as well, with kids sitting on his lap and posing for parents, who used cameras and cell phones to remember the moment. Beach Bistro owner Sean Murphy supplied food for a dinner with full proceeds going to art teacher Gary Wooten, who is recovering from cancer surgery.
Credit
Benjamin Jardine, 7, gets a dinner by the Beach Bistro/Eat Here with full proceeds going to art teach Gary Wooten.
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ROSER CHURCH | PROVIDED
Cheryl Losey, of the Sarasota Orchestra, will play the harp at Roser Church’s Service of Carols on Sunday, Dec. 21, at 10 a.m. The service is open to everyone.
Roser plans music, candles for holidays BY TOM VAUGHT SUN STAFF WRITER | tvaught@amissun.com
ANNA MARIA – As people prepare for the holidays, churches schedule extra services and masses, and some of them are unique. Roser Memorial Community Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, is having a Service of Carols on Sunday, Dec. 21, at 10 a.m., and everyone is invited. Cheryl Losey, of the Sarasota Orchestra, will play the harp, and there will be strings, flute, percussion and solos by Erin Tribble and Sam Howells. Enjoy traditional Christmas carols, and there will be no sermon, just music,
narration and readings from the Bible. Afterward, refreshments will be served in the Narthex, following the cantata. The Narthex features two Chrismon Trees, a combination of Christmas and monogram. Early Christians used symbols to express their faith in times when it was dangerous to be a Christian. In 1957, the use of Chrismons began at a Lutheran Church in Virginia in answer to Mrs. Francis Spencer praying that Christ be glorified in the decorations of her church. It spread around the world. In Anna Maria, the ladies of the Roser Women’s Guild made
the Chrismons for the tree at the church. Each ornament has religious significance. On Christmas Eve, the children will participate in a nativity pageant during the family candlelight celebration at 5:30 p.m. The traditional candlelight service features the music by the Chancel Choir, the Roser Ringers Handbell Choir, a flute solo by Mary Deur, Erin Tribble singing “I Wonder and I Wander,” Christmas carols sung by those attending and meditation by Rev. Dr. Bob O’Keef. The service ends with the singing of “Silent Night” and the Passing of the Light.
Churches prepare for holidays BY TOM VAUGHT SUN STAFF WRITER | tvaught@amisun.com
Christmas is a holy holiday, and the Island’s churches have scheduled services and masses for the celebration of the birth of Christ. All are welcome. Here’s a listing of what they have planned:
CrossPointe Fellowship
8605 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, 778-0719 Wednesday, Dec. 24, 7 p.m., Christmas service.
Episcopal Church of the Annunciation
4408 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, 778-1638: Sunday, Dec. 21, 8 a.m., Holy Eucharist; 10:30 a.m., lessons and carols.
Wednesday, Dec. 24, 5 p.m., family Eucharist with music; 10:30 p.m., carol singing; 11 p.m., festival Eucharist with music. Thursday, Dec. 25, 10 a.m., Holy Eucharist.
Harvey Memorial Community Church
300 Church Street, Bradenton Beach, 779-1912 Wednesday, Dec. 24, 7 p.m., Christmas Eve service.
Roser Memorial Church
512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, 778-0414. Sunday, Dec. 21, 10 a.m., a service of carols. Wednesday, Dec. 24, 5:30 and 9 p.m., Christmas Eve family candlelight celebration. Thursday, Jan. 1, 10 a.m. to noon, the Chapel will be open for self serve communion.
Gloria Dei Lutheran Church
6608 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 778-1813. Wednesday, Dec. 24, 7 p.m. and 10:30 p.m., festival worship. Thursday, Dec. 25, 9:30 a.m., Christmas Day worship. Saturday, Dec. 27, no Saturday night worship. Sunday, Dec. 28, 9:30 a.m., lessons and carols.
St. Bernard Catholic Church
248 S. Harbor Drive, Holmes Beach, 778-4769. Wednesday, Dec. 24, 4 p.m., Children’s Mass; 10 p.m., Christmas Eve Mass. Thursday, Dec. 25, 8:30 and 10:30 a.m., Christmas Day Mass.
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Fire station sites reviewed Fire Commissioner Al Robinson questioned the design/build process and the fees.
Design/build team
Ron Allen, the of NDC Construction, part of the design/ build team selected in June for replacing the station, showed the board two possible options for the station, one on each piece of property being considered. Robinson asked if the firm already had been hired, and Fire Chief Andy Price said yes. Robinson then asked how the firm is being paid. Bishop explained that a selection committee interviewed five firms and recommended NDC and Wannemacher Jensen Architects as the design/build team. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The board agreed that they are the firm to show us options, and they are under contract for preconstruction services,â&#x20AC;? Bishop explained. â&#x20AC;&#x153;When we figure out what we are going to build, they come back with a guaranteed maximum price, and the board will approve it or not,â&#x20AC;? Price added. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We were selected and weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re going through the preconstruction process,â&#x20AC;? Allen said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re here to give you the tools to decide what you want. If you like what we collaborated on, we go forward. If not, you pay the cost of getting to that point.â&#x20AC;? He said that could be up to 1 percent of the cost of the project. Robinson asked if the architect is hired by NDC. Allen
BY PAT COPELAND SUN STAFF WRITER | pcopeland@amisun.com
BRADENTON â&#x20AC;&#x201C; West Manatee Fire commissioners met in a work session last week to update the two newly elected fire commissioners on potential sites for rebuilding Station 4 in Bradenton. The fire station was built at 407 67th Street W. in Bradenton in 1962 as a volunteer station and has undergone multiple renovations. Based on a 2008 evaluation of the districtâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fire stations by TOTeMS Architecture and a property appraisal report, staff recommended replacing the station as the most cost effective solution. Two sites are being evaluated â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the current site and a parcel owned by the Palma Sola Presbyterian Church that is adjacent to the fire districtâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s administration building at 6417 Third Ave. W., Bradenton. Commissioner George Harris asked if they decided to renovate the station instead of rebuilding it, would they be grandfathered for ADA compliance, and Captain Tom Sousa said they would have to bring it up to ADA compliance as well as city code. Harris asked if there was anything to gain by renovating instead of rebuilding, and Sousa said no and added, â&#x20AC;&#x153;To maintain it would be more costly than to build a new station. Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a certain point where it doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t pay to renovate.â&#x20AC;? Commissioner Al Robinson questioned the cost of building a new station, and Commissioner David Bishop asked Sousa if it would improving the level of service to the community. Sousa said it would and added, â&#x20AC;&#x153;The architect can design a structure where our guys can respond quicker and safer than whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s being done now.â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;To me thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fundamental,â&#x20AC;? Bishop stressed.
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SITES: Fire station locations scrutinized FROM PAGE 34
said yes that his firm is the sole point of responsibility, and Bishop pointed out, “They work together to please us.” Harris noted that the design/ build concept is very common in government projects because it is efficient and effective.
Architect presentation
Daryl Krumseig, of Wannemacher Jensen, said he looked at both pieces of property and pointed out some pros and cons of each site. For example, he said the current property has easements that would have to be considered, and the church property would have to provide stormwater treatment. He said one design element could be a drive through bay so firefighters wouldn’t have to back out the trucks and Harris stressed, “Drive through bays are critical for safety.”
We've hired them. This part is done. Let's move on." Larry Jennis Chairman, fire commission
Allen went over a list comparing each site and a possible timeline for each. Robinson said he is still bothered by the fact that there will not be bids for the project. Bishop pointed out. “It’s not no bid; it’s a process. The managing company (NDC) will be soliciting multiple bids. We’re getting a sole point of responsibility.” Robinson asked Bishop, also an architect, what percentage his firm receives, and Bishop replied, “That’s proprietary
information.” Robinson asked Allen what his fee for the project would be, and Allen said it is not yet negotiated. Chair Larry Jennis then declared, “We’ve hired them. This part is done, Lets move on.” At a future commission meeting, the board will approve one of the sites for the new station and proceed to the design stage. Sousa recommended that they also hold neighborhood meetings.
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Hurricanes in December
hristmas Day is next week, so why am I talking about hurricane season? Because we need to remember that we still live in a hurricane zone with ongoing insurance challenges, and June only six months away. Florida hit a record this year with nine consecutive seasons without a hurricane making landfall. Just thinking about the odds of this record being broken makes my calm before the storm light go off. Will 2015 be the year the record is broken, and if it is, are we ready and more importantly are Citizens Property Insurance and the Florida Hurricane Catastrophe Fund ready? Right now we’re all sitting pretty, Citizens has a surplus, The Florida Hurricane Catastrophe Fund is so well funded that assessments imposed on all insured businesses and residents to fill the fund are scheduled to end next year, and more private insurers are
Castles in the Sand Louise Bolger coming into the Florida market. But that could all change with just one Category 4 storm someplace in the state. For example, a big storm hitting Miami could do an estimated $125 billion in damage, more than double what insurance professionals have estimated. Because of the record breaking hurricane seasons we have been experiencing, it’s easy for everyone to get lulled into a false sense of security. According to the Wall Street Journal, historical patterns point to a twothirds chance of a hurricane making landfall in Florida in any given year. Southeastern Florida is more likely to
suffer storm damage, with forecasters putting the odds of a hurricane in any year three times more than northeastern Florida. Residents in southeast Florida are also more likely to have Citizens Insurance. Never-the-less in September the Florida Office of Insurance Regulation said the average Citizen’s homeowners’ rate will fall by 3 to 7 percent better than what Citizens had originally asked for, which means that 7 out of 10 policy holders statewide could see lower rates effective Feb. 1. Naturally, this is happening because of the absence of hefty hurricane claims since 2005, as well as lower premiums for reinsurance, which has become a sound investment in the financial markets, resulting in lower rates. Citizens is still, however, actively attempting to reduce its number of policies through the takeout program which allows private companies that
have been approved by the Florida Office of Insurance Regulation to select insurance policies from Citizens. The private company sends a notice to policyholders informing them of the takeout offer. If policyholders wish to remain with Citizens, they return the opt-out form that is included with the takeout offer. If within 60 days policyholders do not return the opt-out form the policy transfers to the private company. In conjunction with this, Citizens sends the policyholder a letter encouraging them to consider the private offer. In September, the Florida Insurance Commissioner approved allowing a dozen private insurers to assume more than 425,000 policies from the company. This has generated reports of policyholders not receiving full disclosure on what these policies could see bolger, page 39
DECEMBER 17, 2014
BOLGER: Hurricanes in December
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Name those parks
FROM PAGE 38
cost at renewal and has prompted the state to review the takeout program in order to make it less confusing and more transparent. The changes are currently being worked on with Citizens and private companies to make sure the information is understandable so policyholders can make good decisions. You may have put hurricane season in the back of your mind, but don’t let silver bells and mistletoe cloud your brain. Your insurance company’s brain is still working on hurricane season while you’re baking cookies and drinking eggnog, and June is just on the other side of Santa’s belly.
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PAT COPELAND | SUN
Some call this park at 6807 Homes Boulevard the FEMA park.
Holmes Beach Commissioner Marvin Grossman has asked for suggestions from the public on names for two of the city’s pocket parks. One is on 52nd Street behind Hurricane Hanks. The other is at 6807 Homes Boulevard, which some people call the FEMA park (Federal Emergency Management Agency). It is called the FEMA park because that agency paid the owners to demolish their home there after declaring it a repetitive loss property due to frequent flooding. The city then obtained ownership of the lot and landscaped it as a community pocket park.
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AMICCO fills the air with holiday music The Anna Maria Island Community Chorus and Orchestra performed its annual holiday concert at CrossPointe Fellowship last Sunday and wowed the audience with selections from Handel's "Messiah" featurinmg Flannery McIntyre, a product of AMICCO's Youth Competition last year. Other soloists included Joy Leitner, Francesca Veglia, Martha DiPalma, Robin Rocklein, David Kesler and Daniel A. Hoffman. RICK PICKWICK | SUBMITTED
(941) 778-6066 WWW.CALLTHE ISLANDERS.COM
JOHN@CALLTHEISLANDERS.COM
John van Zandt 6101 MARINA DR., HOLMES BEACH, FL 34217
DECEMBER 17, 2014
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Boat parade lights up Waterway The 11th annual Cortez Yacht Club Holiday Lighted Boat Parade took place Saturday night and offered boaters, spectators, organizers and sponsors an evening of nautical-themed holiday revelry that would have made tropical troubadour Jimmy Buffett proud. The Intracoastal Waterway excursion extended from Moore’s Stone Crab to the Seafood Shack and the Bridge Tender Inn.
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
Above, Dee Brady’s boat, Voyager, won Best In Show honors while Bridge Tender Inn owner Fred Bartizal, dressed as Green Bay Packer Santa Claus, and manager Shannon Dunnan arrive at the after party in Christmas style.
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
The lighted canoe piloted by Canadian canoers Pierre Pépin and Jennifer Gosselin, top, was a crowd favorite. Right, parade coordinator Laura Ritter hosts the awards ceremony that took place afterwards at the Bridge Tender Inn. Above, Illinois residents Charlie and Pam Wineinger and Andrea and Tom Jenkins, share a bottle of wine near Moore’s Stone Crab, while waiting for the boat parade to begin.
An intercontinental journey by canoe A pair of Canadian canoers pause to reflect upon their journey through America. BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
ANNA MARIA – Having canoed from western Canada, Jennifer Gosselin, Pierre Pépin and their dog, Jasmine, spent the weekend on the Island as guests of Anna Maria seasonal residents Terry and Pauline Lee. They have moved on now, but the Island is now part of their story. On Saturday, the couple, minus Jasmine, participated in the boat parade. After being delivered to the start of the parade route via Tim and Pam Chris-
tensen’s yacht, they paddled up to the Moore’s Stone Crab restaurant dock to discuss what they have learned about America and themselves thus far during their “NorAm Odyssey.” “The canoe is a mode of transportation. This entire trip is about meeting people, the unreal kindness of people, and the faith it gives back to you,” Pépin said. “The people we’re staying with, we met in Ontario. They said if you ever paddle by here, stop and have steak and shrimp. We had steak and shrimp last night.” The couple has been together for 12 years and married for eight. They left
joe hendricks | sun
Canadian canoers Jennifer Gosselin and Pierre Pépin participated in the boat parade. see canoers, page 46
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Anna Maria Holiday of Treasures Hundreds visited Anna Maria's Holiday of Treasures on Gulf Drive and Pine Avenue on Friday night. The event, sponsored by the AMI Historical
Society and The Sun, is one of several that kick off the holiday season, and visitors enjoyed refreshments and entertainment provided by merchants.
pat copeland | SUN
maggie field | SUN
Above, Ava Harlan admires headbands at Salon Salon. At right, visitors loved the snow at Shiny Fish Emporium. Below, 3-month-old Bryce Laney sleeps though the festivities.
From left, Brianna Shaughnessy, Candice Echolis and Ezio Piccione serve up pork sliders. Below, Linda Nelson, 3, and her sister, Izzy, 6, from Minnesota visit Santa.
pat copeland | SUN
maggie field | SUN
pat copeland | SUN
maggie field | SUN
Above, Timmy the dog tells Santa he's been good this year and deserves some treats. At left, AMI Sun Plaza was filled with visitors, who consumed more than 600 pork sliders. maggie field | SUN
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Privateers borrow parade ride The Anna Maria Island Privateers made it to their Christmas Parade last Saturday on a borrowed ship from the Conquistadors after an auto accident put their parade ship, the Skullywag, out of commission for the parade. The borrowed craft was much smaller than the Skullywag and there were no cannons to fire. That didn't put a damper on the parade as people watched from the curbs as the vehicles passed by, many of them decorated for the season and many with people throwing beads and candy to the crowds. It was another celebration of the holidays in this season of celebrations and it was how the Island's favorite pirates remind everyone they are living on or visiting paradise.
maggie field | SUN
Above, Beach Bum's snowman float was a huge hit with the crowd.
maggie field | SUN
Larry Foley drives his 1966 Ford Galaxy 500 convertible in Saturday's parade. With him are Nancy Bowles and Maggie Yerks riding in the back, George Yerks in front and sheepdogs Maggie and Jack in the middle. At right, the Bradentucky Bombers roller derby team enjoys cruising down Gulf Drive.
tom vaught | SUN
Above, the Privateers make good use of their borrowed "ship," which they got from the Krewe of DeSoto's Conquistadors. Left, County employees and elected officials, including Commissioner John Chappie (at the rear) rode on this float.
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A Christmas on Bridge Street Christmas came early again this year on Bridge Street in Bradenton Beach as hundreds of revelers turned out for the annual holiday celebration, which has become a seasonal favorite.
joe hendricks | sun
Above, Chiles Restaurant Group’s Caryn Hodge calls out the winning raffle numbers during Christmas on Bridge Street. At right, this young lady says ‘let it snow’ during Saturday’s holiday celebration taking place on Bridge Street. Below, from left, Arianna Pryor and Lisa Williams from Moonracer Rescue, joined by market manager Melissa Enders, seek a permanent home for Miracle, a four and half month old pit mix.
DAN RYAN | submitted
This trio of local youngsters told a Christmas story during Saturday’s celebration.
joe hendricks | sun
dan ryan | submitted
chantelle lewin | sun
Above, Blue Marlin Grill’s Adam Ellis displays a Christmas tree made from fishing traps. At right, Bridge Street Jewelers’ John Krake with Santa’s helper, Pam Pearson.
joe hendricks | sun
Personal trainer Steve Schewe and Island Time manager Eric Fleishman enjoy Christmas on Bridge Street.
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RENTALS: City to allow them to continue FROM PAGE 9
less painful for rental owners. “You could regulate but it is easier to enforce a prohibition,” he said. Levin said they could grandfather what’s there or give a grace period. Levin’s opinion drew various responses from attorneys representing rental owners and their letters were in the city’s read file. Commissioner Nancy Yetter said some of the responses from attorneys were like apples and oranges.
Getting input
Mayor Dan Murphy said he had a series of meetings with residents
and a vacation rental group. “We came to an understanding, he said. “I feel our communication is better than before.” He said resident Maureen McCormick drafted an ordinance and the group was working to refine the process of handling rentals. McCormick said they would talk with rental agents about a regulation plan. “We don’t want to move without their input,” she said. Commissioner Chuck Webb said in the past, people said let’s ban all rentals but if the owners could prove a property was a rental before 1996, it would be no problem for them to
continue. “We could regulate this with a special exception,” Webb said. “I think the way to handle the ones after that date would be by special exception. We could put a statement in there that we want to reduce rentals. “On new structures, we will have to address that situation,” he added. “With controls and restrictions, it could be allowed. They could be required to get a license.” The commissioners agreed to work toward grandfathering properties that were rentals before June 1, 2001 and requiring rentals established since that date to apply for special exceptions.
canoers: Journey through America FROM PAGE 42
Ottawa, Canada, on June 6. Traveling an average of 30 miles per day, they have passed through Lake Ontario, Georgian Bay, Lake Huron, Lake Michigan, the Illinois River and the Mississippi River. A turn north took them upstream to the Ohio River and the Tennessee River, before the Tombigbee River brought them south to Mobile. Alabama, where they caught a ride south with a boater who needed a crew to accompany him down the Gulf. “It’s a thousand-day trip. We’re going to the south end of Florida, and we’re going to the Bahamas in February,” Pépin said, noting that the passage to the Bahamas will not be by canoe. “In March, we’re paddling back up to New York. We’ll take the Erie Canal, Lake Erie, the Alleghany River, the Ohio River, the Mississippi River and come all the way south again,” he explained. “At this point we don’t know what we’re going to do for the third year because there’s no water out west.” He said.
Leaving the rat race
A previous trip inspired this current adventure. “Two years ago, we paddled from Grand Portage, Minn., to Quebec. We went back to work after that, and it just didn’t work. Living at 200 miles per hour, you’re going too fast; people are in competition and don’t enjoy life. “There’s a bucket list that has to be done, so we sold everything we owned – our house, truck, car, tools, everything. We’re homeless, but we’ve got money, food and everything we need,” Pépin said.
PHOTO | SUBMITTED
Canadian canoers Jennifer Gosselin and Pierre Pépin with their dog, Jasmine, earlier this year in Michigan. From the front of the canoe, Gosselin said, “We’ve met so many nice people and every day is so different…the view, the landscape and the scenery keeps changing,” she said. The journey has provided the Canadians with more than a glimpse of the American spirit. “People in the United States are very generous. Sometimes in Canada we heard bad stuff about people living here, and it’s totally the opposite. We’ve found that in every state,” she said. Gosselin recalled how two brothers they met in Holland, Michigan engineered and built a wheel system for them to use when portaging their canoe across land. Speaking with the thick Canadian accent she and Pépin share, Gosselin recalled how a reporter in Kentucky gave them a crash course in American slang, including the term redneck. As for what she has learned about herself, Gosselin said, “To take one day at a time. I was an operations
manager, and Pierre had many jobs. We used to work 80 hours a week, barely see each other, and we had a lot of stress.” Pierre said, “I was a coach, I was in construction, I had a pilot’s license, and I had many trades. That rat race was unreal. You’re moving too fast, and everyone is in competition.” The couple no longer pays attention to the negativity associated with the constant news cycle, focusing instead on real life joys encountered. “A lot of people we’ve met on this trip have said I wish I could do that,” Pépin said. “Everybody can do it; you just have to take your time and plan it. When you dream of something, put it on paper, then it’s not a dream anymore. It becomes a project, and projects are meant to be realized, so stop dreaming and start writing,” he advised. Follow the couple’s journey, or assist with a donation or lodging, at www.WildRavenAdventure.com.
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DECEMBER 17, 2014
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ENTICE: Man charged with enticing children FROM PAGE 9
lights and hearing his siren. A backup officer arrived saying the man allegedly tried to lure the kids into his car. As the officer approached, he noticed the suspect was sweating profusely and the odor of burning marijuana came from the car’s interior. He noticed the suspect’s pants zipper was down. When asked why he was sweating, Machuca said he was nervous because his license was suspended. He said he had just paid off some citations to get it back. The backup officer observed what appeared to be marijuana cigarettes inside the car. A computer check showed Machuca’s
license was suspended for seven instances of not paying traffic fines and one count of failure to appear on a traffic summons. In addition, this was his third stop for driving without a license. The victims identified the suspect and he was arrested. He said he had been at a yard sale and saw one of the kids playing basketball after leaving the sale. Machuca said he only waved at him and two other children with him. When the officer asked Machuca why his pants zipper was down, he said it just falls down. Holmes Beach Police Sgt. Brian Copeman searched the car and found two homemade pipes, a small white pill later identified as methamphetamine
A computer check showed Machuca's license was suspended for seven instances of not paying traffic fines and one count of failure to appear on a traffic summons.
in the car’s center console, two bags of synthetic marijuana, two credit card scanners and 18 unidentified pills believed to be Omeprezole. The report said one of the victims told an officer that Machuca was, “holding a sausage in his pants area.” A police report indicated Machuca could
not provide a reason why the juveniles stated he was holding a sausage. Machuca was released on $9,620 bond Sunday, according to a Holmes Beach memo police news release.
parking: Plan moves ahead FROM PAGE 1
nities that ban residential street parking. Commissioner Carol Soustek, the former chair of the Island Congestion Committee, said, “We’d like to proceed and have worked out all the details.” Christensen said the proposal is the result of residents’ concerns about the increase in traffic on residential streets due to the influx of tourists and the safety of pedestrians, bicyclists and children. “There are problems with emergency vehicles being blocked, driveways and sidewalks being blocked, trespassing, trash, public urination,” Christensen pointed out. “There’s a real need to control what’s going on and save our neighborhoods.”
Resident parking passes
Christensen said residents would pay $10 for two-year parking decals for their vehicles and must have a current vehicle registration to a Holmes Beach address and a current driver’s license. Residents having guests or a party could advise the police that they are having guests and the day and hours of the event There would be exceptions for vehicles with a handicap tag; commercial vehicles on the job; government, law enforcement, emergency and Coast Guard vehicles; and private vehicles conducting animal rescue such as Turtle Watch or Mote Marine. “Any kind of change takes time to understand and get used to,” Christensen concluded. “When we first started talking about this, thought I would hit a brick wall, but people like it.” There was some question about golf carts, with Soustek stating that the committee agreed to require permits on them, but Christensen calling for more discussion on the issue. Police Chief Bill Tokajer said he thought “the parking permit allowed you to park in front of your house, not on any residential
street in the city,” but Soustek said resident vehicles with decals could park in any right of way. Christensen suggested holding a town hall meeting to explain the proposal to the public.
People used to be considerate
Commission comments
if they parked in a residential
Commissioner Pat Morton said he likes the idea, and City Attorney Patricia Petruff said she is an advocate of permit parking, but she would no longer be able to park on her favorite beach street. “It’s not fair to the people who live here to put up with all the people who come here.” Commissioner Marvin Grossman said. “I would like to try it out.” Chair Judy Titsworth said, “The way I look at it is living here 50 years, never did I think that we’d have to become a permit parking city. It’s sad that it’s become this. “As far as the beach accesses, my father always said every street needs to have an access for everybody to be able use that beaches. People used to be considerate if they parked in a residential area. Now they’re blaring their radios and yelling at their kids. People have changed and it’s too bad.” She asked if they should try the proposal in neighborhoods west of Gulf Drive first, and Planner Bill Brisson replied, “It could just drive them one block over.” Tokajer added that the problem occurs in other areas not just in areas west of Gulf Drive.
Fines, fishers and visitors
Tokajer asked about fines, and Soustek said the committee discussed a $50 fine with a new ticket each day the vehicle is in the same spot. Tokajer suggested issuing a ticket every two hours the vehicle is in the same spot. Christensen said in addition, they should close the beach accesses to overnight parking, but Petruff pointed out that many people come to fish at night. Titsworth said they could address that issue later.
area. Now they’re blaring their radios and yelling at their kids.” Judy Titsworth Commission chair Brisson suggested that they limit the number of decals for each residential property to three and asked how they planned to address resort housing. “They have parking spaces for their cars,” Grossman replied. Brisson countered, “They have many people on weekend, probably far in excess of the parking, and they are in residential neighborhoods. “Other places have neighborhoods, so a residential parking permit is just that, but it’s different here, so you might want to consider that.” Petruff said they also should consider events such as the Island Community Center’s Tour of Homes, where “parking was madness,” She also cautioned the commission to consider that “every person who pays ad valorem taxes has the right to a parking pass,” not just those with vehicles registered in the city.
Just say no
Titsworth asked about the Beach Bistro that offers valet parking. Murphy said it’s not a problem because his valets have places to park vehicles, but he is opposed to the proposal. “Why are we doing this?” he asked. “This community is not the same as other commu-
nities.” He pointed out that long time residents and families from Manatee County have come to the Island for many, many years and “now we’re telling them that they can’t come. “The other thing is the kids of Manatee County own the beaches, and they are entitled to get to them and we’re telling them they can’t come. A third of them are black and Hispanic. So this policy is racist. That’s what you’re doing.” He said when his kids are home from college, their friends drop by to see them, and he asked if he has to inform the police every time someone drops by. “It will be incredibly difficult to administer,” he continued. People that I talk to don’t like it.”
The next step
“Look five years down the road,” Soustek stressed. “If you don’t control some of your growth, you’ll be a parking lot.” She also pointed out that the city made an agreement with Hancock Bank to allow parking there on weekends and holidays and it has worked so well that other locations might be willing to allow it. “We’re not discouraging people from parking, we’re just telling them where,” Morton added. “There’s a lot of parking available,” Grossman said. “We’re only talking about parking in front of residences, It’s easy for people who aren’t affected by this to complain about it.” “I feel we have to move to the next step,” Titsworth said and asked Petruff and Brisson work on an ordinance. Resident David Cheshire pointed out that the three Island cities are having a study done by the Urban Land Institute, which will focus on problems the three Island cities are facing, such as parking and rentals, and come up with suggestions for relieving or resolving those problems. He suggested that the city not act until the study is complete.
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DECEMBER 17, 2014
Charter review committee named The volunteer committee members will conduct a review of the city charter and suggest changes they feel are necessary. BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
BRADENTON BEACH – Mayor Bill Shearon was successful in getting three of his original five Charter Review Committee nominees approved by the commission during last week’s special meeting, but three commissioners rejected the nomination of John Metz, and he was replaced by Barbara Hug. Serving as a follow up to the nomination process that began the previous week, the special meeting began with Shearon presenting an amended slate of nominees that saw Planning and Zoning Board Chair Dan DeBaun joe hendricks | sun replacing former Mayor John ShaughFrom left, above, John Burns was named to the city’s Charter Review Committee, while the nessy as one of the mayor’s five nomimayor’s nomination of John Metz was rejected. At right, Resort owner Barbara Rodocker, shown nees. According to Shearon, Shaughwith napping Victoria Perry, was named to the committee. nessy had expressed interest in serving when we was first contacted, but later the Metz nomination. At the previous Shearon said he would not nominate declined the opportunity. week’s meeting, Vosburgh expressed Spooner because that he did not want Shearon’s four other nominees concerns that Metz has lived in the city to overbalance the committee with remained unchanged and included P less than two years and plans to build business owners. He then nominated & Z Board members John Burns and a multi-story, mixed-use development Hug, and the commission approved John Metz, former P & Z member Rick next to Shearon’s Linger Longer resort. the nomination 4-1, with Straight in Bisio, and local resort owner Barbara Commissioner Janie Robertson then opposition. Rodocker. requested that Shearon nominate The commission unanimously After the commission voted 3-2 to reImperial House resident and condoapproved Shearon’s nomination of ject the mayor’s nominee slate in its enminium owner Barbara Hug, reiteratVosburgh to serve as the committee’s tirety, Vice Mayor Jack Clarke suggested ing her previously expressed desire commission liaison. they vote on each nominee separately. that a condo resident be included on After some debate, it was agreed The commission then unanimously the committee. that Vosburgh will be allowed to make supported the individual nominations of Straight countered by requesting the suggestions to the committee while Bisio, Burns, DeBaun and Rodocker. nomination of Fish Hole owner Jake they review the city charter. It was also Commissioners Jan Vosburgh and Ed Spooner, citing a desire for another rep- agreed that the other commissionStraight then joined Clarke in opposing resentative of the business community. ers could present their suggestions at
Winter Break Camp at Center The Island Community Center will hold a Winter Break Camp for children in grades K through 5 from Dec. 22 through Jan. 5. Plans include an visit to Selby Gardens in Sarasota for a Holiday Hoopla on Dec. 22 and a wacky PJ Day with pancakes on Dec. 23. The Center will be closed from Dec. 24 through 26. On Dec. 29 it’ll be off to Daikin Dairy Farm in Myakka City and on Dec. 30 a day at the movies in Bradenton. Dec. 31 will be a day filled with New Year celebrations. The Center will be closed on Jan. 1.
Jumpin’ Fun in Lakewood Ranch is on the schedule for Jan. 2, and then the final outing will be to the Island Branch Library on Jan. 5 for an enchanted story time and more. Camp is open from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. each day and costs $25 per day or $15 per half day (7 a.m. to noon or 1 to 6 p.m.). Pay $155 in advance for all seven days and save. For more information, visit the Center at 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria or call Kathy Bogad at 941-778-1908, ext. 9206, or email kathy@myamicc. com.
city commission meetings in a public format, and those suggestions would be forwarded to the committee for consideration. At Shearon’s request, Bisio will serve as temporary chair, and Burns will serve as temporary vice chair when the committee meets for the first time next month. The committee members will then decide who serves in those roles moving forward. Any suggested charter changes proposed by the committee will be subject to commission approval before being placed on a ballot for city voters to accept or reject.
Winter Luminary Walk De Soto National Memorial will light its trails with thousands of luminaries on Saturday, Dec. 20, from 6:30 to 8:30 pm. Encounter Historical re-enactors as they tell stories of how the Spanish and Native American cultures celebrated the winter season at Camp Uzita. There will be traditional music played by the Manatee High School orchestra. Native American musician Juan R. Leon will share the beautiful melodies of Native American flute; classical solo violinist
Amberly Waterman, of Anna Maria, will play traditional European music; and G man’s Caribbean Steel Drums will delight and entertain visitors throughout the night. Concessions will be provided by The Feast restaurant, with a unique menu that includes plates from 8 to 10 dollars. A portion of the night’s proceeds will be donated to the Friends of De Soto National Memorial, a non for profit organization that aids the park financially to support many of its activities and events.
Avoid the hassles of parking by catching the shuttle from King Middle School located on 75th Street Nortwest. Shuttles start at 6 p.m. and run until 9 p.m. The bus is supplied by the Boys and Girls Club of Manatee County. All events and activities at De Soto National Memorial are free. All activities are subject to change due to inclement weather. The park is located at the terminus of 75th street in Bradenton.
DECEMBER 17, 2014
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TOWN CRIER A holiday Garden Club event The Anna Maria Garden Club will hold its Christmas meeting on Wednesday, Dec. 17, at Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, at noon. The program will feature musical entertainment by Marilyn and Jim Shirley. There will be presentations of Christmas traditions by club members Priscilla Seewald, Peg Cummings, Zan Fuller, Ginger Wyss and Maureen McCormick. The officers and board members will provide lunch.
Book club convenes The Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, hosts a book club meeting on Thursday, Dec. 18, at 10 a.m. For more information, call 778-6341.
Off Stage Ladies celebrate
The Off Stage Ladies of the Island Players held their holiday meeting at IMG Country Club on Dec. 10. The Off Stage Ladies performed a holiday clapping dance routine to the delight of their fellow members. Starfire Tap Dance Co wowed the group with various dance routines including tap and hula and vocal performances by Bonnie Gray. The next meeting will be Jan. 14 at Swordfish Grill in Cortez. Contact President Nancy Ambrose for more information.
Knitting group meets Learn to knit or just have fun knitting with others at the Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, on Thursday, Dec. 18, at 2 p.m. Call the library at 778-6341 for more information.
Sneak a peek of Perico Preserve The Manatee County Parks and Natural Resources Department is hosting a free sneak peek photography tour of Perico Preserve on Saturday, Dec. 20, from 8 to 10 a.m. Bring your camera to check out the county’s newest preserve in the early morning light. Staff will lead the tour through this coastal property just across the bay from Anna Maria Island at State Road 64. This tour is suitable for persons 13 and older. You must register to tour. Call 941748-4501, ext. 6055, or e-mail Melissa. nell@mymanatee.org to register
Holiday family fun planned The Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, hosts a free holiday family movie and a craft for kids on Saturday, Dec. 20, at 1 p.m. Call 7786341 for more information.
Joe B plays on Bridge Street Holiday gifts of all shapes and sizes abound at the Bridge Street Market and shops of Bridge Street. This outdoor, weekly event runs 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. every Sunday through the end of April at 111 Bridge Street in Bradenton Beach. Locals and visitors can find fresh produce, local art, chair massage, beachstyle gifts, jewelry, clothes, home décor, food, fun and more. A limited amount of vendor space is still available in some categories. The Market also features live music. For the Dec. 21 market, the featured
entertainer will be singer/songwriter Joe Bonfiglio (Joe B.) Bonfiglio as been performing since his youth. He writes songs about his life experiences, but he also delves into literature, new and old, and film, television, and the news for his inspiration. His newest recording, “Third Time’s the Charm,” was released in January 2014. He has also been included in the last two Sarasota noise ordinance compilations. For Sunday, consider taking the free Island trolley right to Bridge Street. Car parking options include the city lot behind the Bridge Street Bistro, up and down Bridge Street including by the city pier, city hall (permissible on Sundays) and along the beach just south of Bridge Street. For more information on the Bridge Street Merchants, or vendor space at the market contact Market Manager Melissa Enders at melissaenders76@gmail.com or 215-906-0668 or visit www.bridgestreetmerchants.com.
Beach Market collects for needy The Beach Market at Coquina Beach is collecting clothing, shoes and nonperishable food every Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. for those in need in the community. The market is held every Sunday, featuring unique arts and crafts and other items for one’s self or giftgiving. In addition, there is a farmer’s market for fresh fruit and vegetables and lunch is available at the Coquina Café. The Beach Market is located near the trolley stop, at 2650 Gulf Drive S. with booths set up along the Coquina Trail. Manatee County does not allow dogs anywhere in Coquina Park.The market is stroller, walker and wheelchair acces-
sible. Contact Nancy Ambrose for more information 941-518-4431.
Learn Irish Ceili dancing The Anna Maria Irish Ceili Dancers begin their winter dancing at the Sandpiper Mobile Resort, 2601 Gulf Drive N., Bradenton Beach, on Wednesday, Jan. 7, from 1 to 3 p.m., and will continue every week through the end of March. Everyone is welcome to attend from beginner to seasoned veteran. For more information, call Judy at 779-1416 or Ellen at 778-1554.
Bingo is its name-o The Annie Silver Community Center, 103 23rd St. N., Bradenton Beach, hosts bingo starting Thursday, Jan. 15, from 7 to 9 p.m. and running every Thursday of the week through March 26, 2015. There will be cake and coffee for sale. Contact Linda Yarger at 778-3580 or LyargerL @aol.com for more information.
Play bridge at Annunciation Enjoy duplicate bridge every Tuesday at 12:30 p.m. at the Church of the Annunciation, 4408 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. For more information, call 8965154.
Restaurant collects for the hungry Island Gourmet Grill, 5910 Marina Drive in Holmes Beach, has teamed with Feeding Empty Little Tummies (FELT), to provide weekend meals to homeless public school children using backpacks filled with enough food to get them through the weekends. The restaurant
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will be accepting donations through December. A donation of $40 will feed a child for four weekends. Typical backpack food items needed include quart packages of powdered milk, oatmeal and cereal packs, single-serving pasta cups, fruit cups, beans with franks, mac and cheese, raisins, peanuts and almonds. No glass containers will be accepted; tab tops are preferred. Manatee County Schools has identified more than 2,300 children who are homeless or in danger of becoming homeless. For more information on how you can help, send checks made payable to FELT, Inc. of Manatee and mail them to Island Gourmet Grill, 5910 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, FL 34217.
SHINE Program needs volunteers The Florida Department of Elder Affairs and the West Central Florida Area Agency on Aging need volunteers to join the award-winning SHINE team to help the elderly make decisions on Medicare, health insurance and prescription drug plans. Volunteers may also make educational presentations to community groups and participate in local health fairs, senior fairs and other outreach and educational events. For more information or to volunteer, call the Elder Helpline at 1-813740-3888, ext. 5593.
Volunteer advocates needed Florida’s Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program needs volunteers to join its corps of dedicated advocates who protect the rights of elders who live in nursing homes, assisted living facilities and adult family care homes. All interested individuals who care about protecting the health, safety, welfare and rights of long-term care facility residents – who often have no one else to advocate for them – are encouraged to call toll-free 1-888-831-0404 or visit the program’s website at http://ombudsman. myflorida.com.
Red Cross needs you The American Red Cross in Sarasota, Manatee and Charlotte counties has an urgent need for volunteers to help train people how to save a life and to assist local families who have lost their home to a fire or other disaster. Volunteer instructors help people learn lifesaving skills such as CPR and First Aid. All volunteer applicants must pass a background check and attend an orientation class. All training is free. American Red Cross volunteers constitute 94 percent of the total workforce to carry out its humanitarian mission. To register or for more information, visit www. redcross.org/fl/Sarasota/volunteer.
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BEACH BEAT
Holmes Beach
Bradenton Beach
12/10, 10:57 a.m., disorderly conduct, 135 Bridge Street, Bridge Street Pier. The female defendant got mad at the male victim because he did not have any drugs aboard his boat. She caused a disturbance and threw items belonging to the victim overboard. The victim came to shore while the defendant stayed on board. She came to shore later and was acting erratically. The officer arrested her after seeing a video of her behavior taken by the Bridge Tender staff.
11/30, 3:45 p.m., fraud, 4500 block of Gulf Drive. The officer stopped the driver for an expired registration and when she gave him her driver’s license, he noticed the area where her birth date was located had been scratched out and made to look like she was 21. She was 16. He confiscated her driver’s license to use as evidence and released her to her mother. 12/3, 4:59 p.m., driving an unregistered vehicle, 4800 block of Gulf Drive. The officer stopped the driver when a computer check showed the registration had been cancelled. He also smelled marijuana inside the
DECEMBER 17, 2014
12/4, 12:44 p.m., driving with an expired plate, driving with a Wisconsin license after establishing residency in Florida, 6400 block of Holmes Boulevard. A random check of the defendant’s vehicle showed the registration was expired. The driver produced her Wisconsin license but could not produce a registration or proof of insurance. She was ticketed. 12/5, 11:53 p.m., warrant arrest, 200 block of 48th Street. The officer responded to a report of a reckless driver and observed the defendant’s driving and pulled him over. A computer check showed he was wanted out of Ft. Pierce, Fla. He was arrested,
car. A passenger said he had just smoked some, and there was a small amount left. The driver turned over a small bag with a minute amount of marijuana in it. The officer inspected the car and found no further traces of the drug and ticketed the driver. 12/4, 8:05 a.m., driving with a suspended license, 7600 Palm Drive. A computer check showed the driver of the vehicle had a suspended license so the officer pulled him over. He said he did not know his license was suspended, but it might have been due to an insurance coverage lapse. The officer gave the driver a ticket and seized his license.
Real estate transfers of November 2014 •Sponsored by Alan Galletto, Island Real Estate Source: Mid Florida Multiple Listing Service
6101 MARINA DRIVE, HOLMES BEACH
Sold Date List Price Sold Price Anna Maria 11/21/2014 529,000 500,000 11/14/2014 674,900 632,500 11/18/2014 720,000 680,000 11/14/2014 789,000 750,000 11/14/2014 240,000 220,000
714 Gladiolus St. 236 Gladiolus St. 208 Palmetto Ave. 120 Oak Ave. 522 Pine Ave. 8a
987 1361 1232 1429 822
50x1002 50.0x110.0
2 Br/2 Ba SFR 2 Br/2 Ba SFR 2 Br/2 Ba SFR 4 Br/2.5 Ba SFR 2 Br/1 Ba Condo
Bradenton Beach 11/14/2014 219,000 11/21/2014 619,900 11/26/2014 619,900 11/21/2014 142,900 1/12/2014 495,000 11/28/2014 295,000
205,000 600,000 600,000 138,500 475,000 287,500
204 Church Ave. #9 107 10th St. N. 109 10th St. N. 117 7th St. N. # 7 241 17th St. 2212 Ave C
590 2020 2020 594 1676
50x105
2 Br/1 Ba Condo 3 Br/2.5 Ba Condo 3 Br/2.5 Ba Condo 1 Br/1 Ba Condo 3 Br/2.5 Ba Condo Vac
Cortez 11/11/2014 11/19/2014 11/18/2014 11/21/2014
699,000 845,000 600,500 73,000
12326 BayPointe Ter. 12918 Yacht Club Pl. 3840 Mariners W. 526c 12305 BayPointe Ter.
2565 3270 2547
3 Br/2.5 Ba SFR 4 Br/2.5 Ba, REO / Bank Owned 3 Br/2.5 Ba Condo 83x186x117x149 Vac
355,000 449,000 770,650 980,000 1,170,000 495,000 289,000 275,000 380,000 500,000
5604 Guava St. 8316 Marina Dr. 525 Key Royale Dr. 207 73rd St. 628 Key Royale Dr. 8106 Gulf Dr. # A & B 409 63rd St. 18 Seaside Ct. # 18 5608 Gulf Dr. 204 5400 Gulf Dr. # 34
1545 1440 1788 2038 4800 1600 1400 978 1092 1188
57x105 3 Br/2 Ba SFR 3 Br/3 Ba SFR 4 Br/3 Ba SFR 100.0x160.0 4 Br/4.3 Ba SFR 59x115x58x105 Duplex 3 Br/2 Ba, 1/2 Duplex 2 Br/2 Ba Condo 2 Br/2 Ba Condo 2 Br/2 Ba Condo
699,000 869,900 649,000 79,000
Holmes Beach 11/26/2014 369,000 11/21/2014 449,000 11/18/2014 799,000 11/13/2014 1,079,000 11/26/2014 1,199,000 11/14/2014 495,000 11/04/2014 299,900 11/20/2014 274,900 11/07/2014 399,000 11/26/2014 525,000
Property Address SFUA Lot Size
Property Description
DECEMBER 17, 2014
FUN IN THE SUN
Across 1 Many Pindar poems 5 Philatelist's find 10 Mt. Rushmore locale 14 "Rich & Meaty" brand 15 "I should have made my way straight __ long ago": Whitman 16 "Try this" 17 Joule fractions 18 Explosive trial 19 "Makes sense to me" 20 Old Buick 22 Not surprising 24 Schoolyard comeback 25 Chaps can be seen in one 26 Like boxed matches 28 Jackson successor Van __ 29 Predatory seabird Answers to 12-10-14 Crossword Puzzle.
31 "Hit me" 33 Speckle 36 Broadway's __-Fontanne Theatre 38 Grind, as teeth 39 Young hombre 40 Shout before Silver 41 Patterson who played the singing flight attendant in "Airplane!" 42 Handling the situation 43 Pancreatic hormone 45 Blue hues 47 Chase scene sounds 48 Annexes 49 One of a fiver's fifty 50 Recipe word 51 Flock females 53 Freedom, in Swahili 57 "The Country Girls" novelist O'Brien 60 Big oaf 61 Surgical holding area
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62 Go slowly (through) 63 Hard-to-do dos 64 Part of REM 65 See 51-Down Down 1 City about 225 miles from Moscow 2 "__ say it?" 3 Diner's breakfast request 4 "Valley of the Dolls" author Jacqueline 5 Baseball manager's decision 6 Carry 7 Word to a captain 8 Greatest amount 9 Cop's command 10 Many an Iraqi Muslim 11 What sports stats are usually shown in ... or what 3-, 5- and 9-Down each represents? 12 Toward the stern 13 Boat base 21 Barn dance neckwear 23 Remove the skin from 27 Mortise inserts 28 Sarajevo's region 29 K-12 30 Roman holiday attractions 32 Dent or scratch 34 Pizza topping
35 Wee ones 37 Busload at a resort, probably 39 Loud to the max 44 Moon lander, briefly
46 Prohibited insecticide 51 With 65-Across, source of shade 52 Act the suitor 54 Charlemagne's
realm: Abbr. 55 Turn that's hung 56 CanapĂŠ topping 58 Wedding page word 59 Oaf
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classified
ANNOUNCEMENTS
CARPET CLEANING
EMPLOYMENT
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED at AMICC. Help your community by giving of yourself. Various positions available. Call Sandee 941-778-1908 ext 0
QUALITY COUNTS. CARPET cleaning. Upholstery cleaning. Tile & grout cleaning. Island's favorite cleaner. Manatee Chamber Member. Great price/free estimates. Call 941-7561082
IMMEDIATE OPENINGS FAMILY Owned Gift Shop on AMI. Part time. Evenings/weekends a must. Retirees welcome. Inquire at 727-244-5906
CLEANING SERVICE
NOW HIRING WAITSTAFF, Cooks & Dishwasher Apply in person Mon.-Sat. 9AM - 11AM or 2PM to 4PM at the Key Royale Club, Inc. 700 Key Royale Dr. Holmes Beach, FL No Phone Calls Please **Must be able to pass a drug test**
THE BEST VOLUNTEER position on the island. The AMI Historical Museum needs docents and bread makers. Call Dusty at 941779-7688. ROSER FOOD BANK needs donations of cash and non-perishable food. Donations boxes are located at the Church, Moose Club, Walgreen's and The Anna Maria Island Sun Newspaper (corner of Gulf and Palm). OUR DAILY BREAD of Bradenton is looking for volunteer servers 9amnoon. Ask for Penny 941745-2992 TRANSFER ELIGIBLE COLLEGE Credits! Finish Your Degree Online! Financial Aid to those who qualify. Placement Assistance. Email transcript to start now@sctrain.edu or call 800-852-0595.
AUTOMOTIVE SALES & SERVICE POWER WINDOW and LOCK repair. Licensed, mobile, Guaranteed. Call for Free estimate. 941-7801735 MV 46219
BABY SITTER BABY SITTER. Honor student with own transportation. Experienced, References available. Call or text Amanda at 941-713-3219 RED CROSS CERTIFIED baby sitter. Honor student. Call or text Isabel 941-5457995
BOATS: PARTS & SERVICES & SALES
BOATS ARE SELLING Very Well. Season is Early-Busy-Busy-Busy www.Islandboatsales. net We Also Buy Boats. 941-228-3489 BOAT SLIPS FOR RENT. Up to 60 feet. Two minutes to Intracoastal Waterway by Cortez, Parrot Cove Marina 941-795-0088
Call us today! 941-778-3986
C & T HOUSEKEEPING. For all your cleaning needs. Free Estimates. Reasonable rates. Senior discount. References available. Call 941-9622512 CLEANING: RESIDENTIAL, COMMERCIAL & RENTALS. "Have it done your way, we care about our work" Call 941-7564570 PRESSURE WASHING AND WINDOWS residential, commercial & resorts. Roofs, buildings, houses, driveways etc. Call 941-251-5948
COMMERCIAL SALES/ LEASES/RENTALS ANNA MARIA CITY Gulf Drive Frontage Commercial 2 Lots 104x120 Real Estate only $1,200,000. Call Alan Galletto Island Real Estate 941-232-2216 RESTAURANT/OFFICE/ RETAIL 1113 sf Kitchen Equipment include Gulf Drive Bradenton Beach $495,000 Call Alan Galletto Island Real Estate 941-232-2216 BAR/RESTURANT 2100 ft2 with lease, includes Liquor License, Furniture and Good Will $599,000 CALL ALAN GALLETTO Island Real Estate 941-232-2216
COMPUTER SERVICES
EMPIRE COMPUTER SERVICE Computer problems fixed in your home or office. The fastest friendliest service around. Serving the Island since 2004. Call 941-739-6424
SALES ASSISTANT PART-TIME Busy office, strong communications skills, computer skills. Need to be flexible. Send Resume to PO Box 1394, Anna Maria FL 34216 AIRLINE CAREERS START Here - Get FAA certified with hands on training in Aviation Maintenance. Financial aid for qualified students. Job placement assistance. Call AIM 866-314-5838 FLIGHT ATTENDANT CAREERS start here- We will help you land the job and prepare for training by the airlines. Five information packed days in Orlando. Call AIM to learn more 855-879-4538.
FOR SALE METAL DOUBLE BED Frame, Box Springs and Mattress. You haul it $50. Call 941-807-5492
FURNITURE CUSTOM COASTAL FURNITURE & CABINETS by Frankie Z. ebay store. Call 941-726-1482. 10015 Cortez Rd (corner of 101st) frankiezaff@yahoo.com
GARAGE, MOVING, RUMMAGE & YARD SALES NIKI’S HUGE SALE! 5351 Gulf Dr, Holmes Beach. All Sterling Silver jewelry 10% to 50% off. Gold Jewelry 60% off. Select gifts, porcelain birds, glassware, art, bric-brac, dolls, books, miniatures 30% to 80% off. New designer line of candles, soaps, and essential oils. Great furniture. . Open 7 days 9:30-5.
DECEMBER 17, 2014
ROSER THRIFT SHOP Open Tuesday and Thursday 9:30am - 2 pm. Saturday 10 am -1 pm. Annex open am same days. Donations accepted Wednesday 9 am. – 11am 511 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Call 941-7792733. GARAGE SALE SATURDAY December 20. 9am-until. 221 84th St Holmes Beach. Twin bed, clothing, furniture and much more
HOME IMPROVEMENTS TILE! TILE! TILE! All variations of tile supplied and installed. Quality workmanship. Prompt, reliable, many Island references. Free estimates. Neil 941-726-3077
DRAIN CLEANING James VanFossen A.K.A. “RIP” Call 941-301-6077
LANDSCAPING & LAWN CARE STRAIGHT SHOT LANDSCAPING. Save water, gas, maintenance fees and the environment! Shell your yard. $50/yd installed. Call Shark Mark 941-301-6067 R. GAROFALO’S Interlocking brick pavers, driveways, patios, pool decks. Free estimates. Licensed & Insured. Call Rafael 941-778-4823 or Veronik 941-526-7941 ELI’S IRRIGATION New install/repair. Pumps, pools, irrigation, landscape lighting and pressure washing. Call 941-580-2054 SHELL DELIVERED AND spread $50/yd. Hauling all kinds of gravel, mulch, top soil with free estimates. Call Larry at 941-795-7775, "shell phone" 941-720-0770
RENOVATION SPECALIST ALL carpentry repairs, Wash Family Construction, locally owned and operated CBC 1258250 Call 941-7250073. KERN CONSTRUCTION NEW Homes & Remodel. Design/Build. Since 1968. State License # CRC1327296. Call Jerry Kern 941-504-2222 www. kernconstructioninc.com GET’R DONE DRYWALL, INC Specializing in Remodels & Repairs. Island Resident for 18 years. Call Neil Cell 941-962-1194. SOUTHWEST HOME IMPROVEMENT Michigan General Contractor 30+ yrs. experience. Large or small projects. Budget minded knowledgeable tradesman will complete your project start to finish: On Time/On Budget. Call Mike 616-204-8822. ASAP REPAIRS. Electrical, power washing, carpentry, Air conditioning/Heating. Free estimates. No service charge. No job too small. Engineer turned Handyman. Call 941-448-7806 PAINTING INTERIOR/EXTERIOR. Clean professional service. Free Estimates. Call Wayne Lewin 941-7268414
HOME SERVICES HANDY MAN for HIRE. Worked all trades, no job to big. Satisfaction guaranteed. Free estimates. Call Arthur 941-518-8658
LOCKSMITH ISLAND LOCKSMITH, “Lock Around the Clock”. Licensed/bonded/insured. Call 941-778-1661 or 941713-4414
LOST & FOUND LOST SILVER-STONE Bracelet Friday or Saturday December 6 or 7 at Island Player Theater. Please call 941-794-7255 FOUND PRESCRITION GLASSES Ralph Lauren corner of Manatee and East Bay, Holmes Beach. Call 419-769-1610 LOST GOLD PINKY ring with amethyst stone vicinity of Cortez Kitchen and Swordfish Grill. Call 941778-8359 LOST PANDORA BRACELET many charms. Great sentimental value. Call 518-365-2702 MISSING 18 INCH GOLD chain with diamond drop, sterling silver seed bracelet , location Blue Water Beach Club between 9/12 & 9/13/2013 heartbroken was gift from husband 45 years ago REWARD please call 863-668-8566 no questions asked
MASSAGE Effective and Reputable "LICENSED MASSAGE THERAPIST" (MA70460) available for House call Service. Relax and Revive! Call Ginger at 941-9621242. www.gingeryoung massage.com
MOVING & STORAGE MARTIN’S MOVING YOUR Island movers! Offering dependable, competitive rates. No hidden costs. 941-809-5777. TWO MEN and a TRUCK. Movers who care. Local and Long distance. www. twomen.com Call 941-3591904. We sell boxes!
PAINTING & WALLCOVERING PAINT! PAINT! AND MORE 28 years of experienced interior/exterior custom painting. Pressure cleaning, drywall repairs and texture finishes. Many Island references. Please call Neil for free estimates. 941-812-0507 “WIZARD OF WALLS” Established 1980 Prompt quality service. Paperhanging/removal Faux finishes. Interior painting. Mary Bell 941794-0455 WALY PRECISION PAINTING custom painting, pressure washing, commercial/residential, interior/exterior, drywall/stucco, Licensed & insured. Call 941-448-1928 or 941-580-4005 www. WalyPrecisionPainting.com
PERSONAL SERVICES SMALL ODD JOBS, yard work, walk dog etc. Call George 941-773-5518 THE TINT GUY." Commercial, residential, automotive, marine. Free estimates. All work guaranteed. Over 25 years experience. Mobile service available. Call 941-2012649
DECEMBER 17, 2014
classified
PET SITTING/ HOUSE SITTING
REAL ESTATE HOMES & CONDOS FOR SALE
ARE YOU WANTING to vacation and not worry if your pet is lonely. I will overnight in your home, so your animal can stay in his own environment. Home Sitting is also available. Great References. Call Mary 941-405-2496
SPACIOUS 3BR/3BA Condominium rarely available in wonderful bay front complex with pool and tennis courts. Tastefully renovated to include newly tiled kitchen & family room with a peak of the bay and a split bedroom plan. Centrally located in Holmes Beach, with a short walk to shops. Ground-floor unit with covered parking and private storage. Family oriented and pet friendly. Offered at $450,000. Call Green Real Estate @ 941-7780455
GOING AWAY FOR the Holidays? Worried about leaving your home or pets unattended? Call Kendall! Experienced, Dependable House & Pet Sitter Call 941-932-7229 ANNA & LINDSAY’S Dog Walking. $5 per dog walked, $10 Dog wash. $20 for both plus play time. Contact 917-406-9554. Anna Maria Island Only.
PHOTOGRAPHY NEW AERIAL AMI PHOTOS. PhotosFromTheAir.com. email: photosfromtheair@ gmail.com or Call 941-7739834
POOL SERVICES FOUR SEASONS POOL SERVICE. Anna Maria Island & West Bradenton. Certified pool operator. Residential/ commercial. Licensed & Insured. Call Dennis Clark 941-737-5657 COLE'S TROPICAL POOL SERVICE Call Cole Bowers for all your pool maintenance needs! Affordable and Dependable!! 941-7131893
PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AMI VALET LLC Professional parking services. Restaurants, weddings, any & all special events. Insured & Licensed. Years of experience. Call 941-565-0137 AMIValet@gmail.com AT YOUR SERVICE Personal & Professional assistant. Great rates. References available "Let me do what you are unwilling or unable to do." Call Cindy 941-812-2238 zicker8@aol.com
Call us today! 941-778-3986
FREE! What every REAL ESTATE BUYER or SELLER needs to know! Go to www.yourmar ketupdate.com for the latest market data. CANAL FRONT, Recently renovated 2BR/2BA villa with dock. Near intercoastal with/no ridges. Great soon to be gated community. Pet friendly. Bradenton. Yes, you can have it all. $260,000. Katharine Pepper RoseBay International 941-751-0582 or 802-363-9973" ELEVATED DUPLEX 2BR/1BA each side. Washer/dryer, dishwasher, tiled, 2 one car garages, covered patios. 2 blocks to beach, bay, pier, shops, cafes and bars. 204 2nd St N, Bradenton Beach $650,000. Call 941-741-1096 PERICO BAY CLUB VillaVery well maintained! $230,000. Runaway Bay – Light & Bright, Weekly rentals! $317,900. Call Kathleen today! 941773-0165 Island Real Estate DISCOVER the OTHER ISLAND, Tidy Island in Sarasota Bay. Tastefully renovated lake front condo; 3BR/2BA/2 car w/storage. This condo has so much to offer! Pet friendly. $344,900 Katharine Pepper RoseBay International 941-751-0582 or 802363-9973"
PALMA SOLA BAY Canal townhouse2BR/1.5BA minutes from AMI Beaches. Large heated pool. FREE dock & boat slip. Cute as a button. Must see! $153,000. This won’t last long. Call 941-727-5210 4BR/3BA HOUSE on 71.5 acres with 18 stall horse barn in Parrish, Florida. Call Steve Georgie 941-321-6253 at Keller Williams Realty
REAL ESTATE: LOTS FOR SALE GORGEOUS LOT (14,160 Sq. Ft) (80 X 177) Located at 1107 Palma Sola Blvd. Stunning views of Palma Sola Bay with great potential for new construction. For more details contact Gregg Bayer at AMI Beaches Real Estate 941-799-9096
THE SUN
RENTALS: ANNUAL 2BR/1BA GROUND LEVEL apartment in Triplex . Water, sewer, trash & gas included. $825/ momo $825 security deposit. Near St. Stephens in Bradenton 2BR/2BA home 1700 s/f water incl. W/D hook up new tile, new cabinets. Corner lot. Bradenton Credit & background required on all applicants over 18 . DUNCAN REAL ESTATE 941-779-0304 www. teamduncan.com ANNUAL RENTAL and CONDOMINIUM Association management serviced by (2) offices open 7 days a week! Contact kate@ islandreal.com – 941-3451295 - Island Real Estate of Anna Maria Island, Inc. Looking for a bright energetic Property Management Team? Call Amberly and Tracy at A Paradise 941-778-4800 to maximize your rental income. ANNUAL RENTAL BRADENTON BEACH 2BR/1BA, dishwasher. 2 blocks to beach, bay, fishing pier & restaurants. Covered garden patio. $1095/mo. Call 941-741-1096
HOLMES BEACH 1BR efficiency. Small but cute includes water & garbage $850/mo Available January 15. 1 year lease & credit check required. Call 941809-2488
RENTALS: SEASONAL & VACATION TIFFANY PLACE Gulf Front Condo for Rent Incredible views from living room and master bedroom. 2BR/2BA Green Real Estate Call 941-778-0455 ANNA MARIA ISLAND, Fl Condos. Pool beach access, fully equipped $650-$750/ wk Redekercondos.com 941-778-1915 WILLKOMMEN AUF AMI! Besuchen Sie Island Real Estate in einem unserer Inselbüros (6101 Marina Drive oder 419 Pine Ave) mit unserem deutschsprachigen Reservierungsservice und erhalten ein freies Island Real Estate Baseball Cap! Wir geben Ihnen gerne mehr Auskunft über unsere 250 ausgewählte Feriendomizile für Ihren nächsten Urlaub!
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VACATION RENTALAVAILABLE Jan, Feb, Mar 2015. Holmes Beach 3BR/2BA Canal home with pool. $5600/mo + taxes/fees. Contact Fran Maxon Real Estate 941778-2307 for details. franmaxonrealestate. com. AMI GULFFRONT CONDO. Pool, garage 2BR/2BA January $3200 for 3 weeks, April $4200/mo. Call 941-7786226 dunkirkray@gmail.com
RENTAL WANTED LOOKING FOR A 3 bedroom rental property on AMI to rent from January 23, 2015 through April 30th 2015. Call 231-828-2051
TRANSPORTATION AMI TAXI metered-on-callcards accepted. Airport services: Tampa $85, Sarasota $35, Clearwater $75, Fort Meyers $150, Orlando $150. Call 800-301-4816. amitaxi4u@gmail.com, www.amitaxi.com TOWN CAR SERVICES, All airports served. Local and Long distance services available. Call Glen 941225-0072
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THE SUN
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Call us today! 941-778-3986 DECEMBER 17, 2014
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DECEMBER 17, 2014
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DECEMBER 17, 2014