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VOL 15 No. 23

Fitness fallout

April 1, 2015

Residents and commissioners support business owners

They oppose the Island Community Center board’s plan to install a fitness facility in the Center. BY PAT COPELAND SUN STAFF WRITER | pcopeland@amisun.com

HOLMES BEACH – It was standing room only at last week’s city commission meeting with residents supporting two business owners who oppose the Island Community

Center board’s plan to install a fitness center in the Center. “We want to express our concern about the proposed $500,000 state of the art fitness facility taking place at the AMI Community Center and how it will greatly affect our businesses, if not shut us down,” said Brenda Canning, of Island Fitness. Jen Crady, of AMI Health & Fitness, said the Community Center has been “dear to my heart” and “helped shape my children to be

who they are – exceptional students and athletes,” but it is a nonprofit organization that pays no taxes and “holds an unfair business advantage when they decide to compete with small business. “It’s clear that the proposed fitness center plan is targeting seasonal residents as well as visitors. It is also clear that the board members own the companies that are overseeing the project. You see center, page 32

pat copeland | SUN

Residents filled Holmes Beach City Hall last week to express their concerns about the fitness center planned for the Anna Maria Island Community Center.

INSIDE NEWS OPINION Sun survey outdoors Town crier restaurants real estate crossword

4 6 7 26-28 33 34-35 36-41 43

MANGROVE

TAll bridge PLAN BACKED BY

Corps of Engineers rejects developer’s request. 4

FDOT. 8

REMOVAL:

Anna Maria Island, Florida

Whitmore seeks help to keep HB post office open. 4

The Island’s award-winning weekly newspaper

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THE SUN

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APRIL 1, 2015

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APRIL 1, 2015

Easter the time to celebrate The day begins with the annual Sunrise Service at Manatee County Beach, but the churches also have services scheduled. BY TOM VAUGHT SUN STAFF WRITER | tvaught@amisun.com

THE ISLAND – Easter is a celebration of the resurrection of Christ and on Anna Maria Island, it is also a time to pray on the beach as the sun comes up. Once again, the Kiwanis Club of Anna Maris Island will hold its 51st Sunrise Service at Manatee County Beach, 4000 Gulf Drive, at the end of Manatee Avenue on Easter Sunday, April 5, starting at 6:30 a.m. Bring a chair or blanket and a flashlight to read the program as Easter falls earlier this year, and the sun won’t be present for much of the service. All of the Island’s churches will participate in the service, and they share the offering. There is plenty of parking, but the best bet is to leave the car at home and take the trolley. The Anna Maria Island Beach Café will sell coffee and after the service, it will sell breakfast for those who want to stay at the beach.

Church services

The six churches on the Island will hold services, some of them at their regular time, and others have bigger plans. • CrossPointe Fellowship, 8605 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria, 778-0719, will have its regular Sunday service on Easter, starting at 9 a.m. • Episcopal Church of the Annunciation, 4408 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, 778-1638, will celebrate Good Friday on April 3 at noon and on Easter Sunday, Easter Service Rite I at 9 a.m. and Rite II at 11 a.m. • Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, 6608 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 778-1813, will celebrate Holy Communion and the Stripping of the Altar on Maundy Thursday, April 2, at 7 p.m.; The reading of the passion according to St. John on Good Friday, April 3, at noon and 7 p.m.; Service of Light, the Word, Baptism and Eucharist on Easter Vigil, April 4, at 9 p.m.; Festival Worship at 9:30 a.m. followed by a pot luck brunch. • Harvey Memorial Community Church, 300 Church St., Bradenton Beach, 779-1912, will have a service at its regular time, 9:30 a.m. • Roser Memorial Community Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, 778-0414, celebrates a Maundy Thursday service

April 2 at 7 p.m. in the Roser Memorial Chapel; a Good Friday service April 3 at noon in the Chapel; Easter Sunday Services April 5 at 8:30 and 10 a.m. in the Roser Community Church Sanctuary, Bring a flower to place on the cross. As worshippers arrive they are invited to place a flower in the chicken wire of the old rugged cross, transforming it into a beautiful cross covered with flowers. • St. Bernard Catholic Church, 248 S. Harbor Drive, Holmes Beach, 778-4769, celebrates Friday, April 3, Good Friday, no morning Mass, Passion of our Lord, 3 p.m.; Saturday, April 4, Holy Saturday, no morning Mass, Vigil at 8 p.m., Sunday, April 5, Easter Sunday, Masses at 8:30 and 10:30 a.m. In addition, Longboat Island Chapel, at 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, 383-6491, holds special Easter Services starting with Thursday, April 2, at 5 p.m. simple supper and communion; Sunday, April 5, 7 a.m. sunrise service in Fellowship Garden, 10 a.m. Flowering of the Cross and Traditional Easter service in the sanctuary with special music by the Jensen Family. A children's Easter egg hunt will be held in the garden.

THE SUN

Easter fun for kids and family The Easter Bunny will be up early on the beach leaving eggs on the sand in time for the 29th Annual Easter Egg Hunt at the Sandbar restaurant for ages 10 and under on Saturday, April 4, beginning at 9 a.m. Bring a basket for each child and don’t be late, because the Easter Bunny is always very punctual. In fact, the Sandbar will have refreshments under the pavilion beginning at 8:30 a.m. After the last Easter egg has been found, join the Easter Bunny (also known as Anna Maria’s Mayor) for a walk down Pine Avenue to the parking lot at 317 Pine where the Easter egg roll will be set up along with a coloring station and face painting. This will end at 11a.m. At 10:30, they will hold the Easter bonnet contests – one for adults and one for children. First prize for adults is a free stay at one of the Anna Maria guest houses on Pine and the Children’s first prize is lunch with four of their friends including ice cream sundaes. The Sandbar will be serving refreshments on Pine Ave along with cupcakes by Hometown Desserts. DJ Chuck Weirich will provide music and Shooting Star Photography will be taking free photos of kids with the Easter Bunny. The Easter egg hunt is sponsored by the Chiles Group of Restaurants and the Anna Maria Island Sun. Other activities are sponsored by Pine Avenue Restoration.

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ISLAND NEWS

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APRIL 1, 2015

in brief

Whitmore seeks post office help Manatee County Commissioner Carol Whitmore has written to U.S. Rep. Vern Buchanan regarding the potential closing of the post office in Holmes Beach. The USPS recently said it would relocate the post office boxes there, which could result in the loss of all postal services at the location. Mayor Bob Johnson has written Buchanan and other state elected officials asking them to intervene. “This post office has been in existence since I have been aproxinately16 years old, that I can remember. My P.O. box has been located in this location since that time,” Whitmore wrote to Buchanan. “This is the only post office in a chartered city where I served as mayor for many years.” Whitmore said she would ask the county commission for support on the issue. Sally Tibbetts, district director for Buchanan’s office, responded and said she has contacted the Suncoast District office of the USPS about the issue. “We look forward to receiving whatever support the commission and community can provide to help keep the post office open,” Tibbetts told Whitmore.

Business owner wants traffic relief Debra Barker, of Niki’s Island Treasures implored Holmes Beach city commissioners for help with the traffic problem. “This traffic is killing my business,” she said at last week’s commission meeting. “My customers can’t get to me. The ones that do show up are angry. I appeal to you. I am stuck between two party houses behind me and traffic in front of me.” She said her business has dropped 90 percent, thefts have increased and many people come in just to use the restroom. “I want to stay here; please help me stay here,” she concluded.

Commission approves special magistrate Holmes Beach city commissioners last week approved the first reading of an ordinance to establish the position of special magistrate to replace the code enforcement board for code enforcement hearings. Currently the city pays an attorney to represent the code board and one to represent the city. City Attorney Patricia Petruff said a magistrate would not save the city money because the city would have to pay the magistrate to hear the case and the city attorney to be the prosecutor. Commissioner Pat Morton said it would eliminate the issue of “friends judging friends,” and Commissioner Jean Peelen said it would take the emotion and opinion out of the decisions.

submitted

If approved, Pat Neal’s family compound would be located along the eastern shores of Perico Island, shown here in the early stages of Harbor Isle development.

Corps rejects mangrove removal A proposed shoreline family compound faces multiple permitting hurdles. BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

PERICO ISLAND – The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (ACOE) objects to developer Pat Neal’s request to destroy coastal mangroves on the eastern shore of Anna Maria Sound in order to build the Harbor Sound subdivision for use as a family compound. On March 19, Kevin O’Kane, Chief of the Army Corps Tampa Section, sent a letter to Neal’s 97-12 land trust informing him that the ACOE does not intend to issue a permit to allow 1.05 acres of environmentally sensitive mangroves to be filled in to accommodate the construction of four single-family homes near the Harbour Isle community on Perico Island. “Permitting the destruction of mangrove wetlands for a nonwater residential development project, while less environmentally damaging alternatives are available, would set an unacceptable precedent,” O’Kane’s letter states.

Denial justified

O’Kane’s letter lists 14 reasons for denying the request, including a failure to define the need to build four homes ranging in size from 9,000 to 12,813 square feet, and the failure to explain why a

CINDY LANE | sun

Mangroves provide natural habitat and nursing areas for a wide variety of water and land bound species. project that is not water dependent needs to be located near a mangrove wetland. O’Kane referred to the National Marine Fisheries Service opinion that the project proposes direct impact to an Essential Fish Habitat area the Gulf of Mexico Fishery Management Council identified as being an essential habitat for shrimp, red drum, Spanish mackerel, snapper, grouper and migratory sharks. “The NMFS has determined the proposed non-water dependent project will individually and cumulatively result in an adverse impact to Anna Maria Sound and dependent fisheries, and may adversely affect Essential Fish Habitat that supports fisheries managed under the Magnuson-Stevens Act,” O’Kane’s letter states.

O’Kane went on to say the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) considers mangrove wetlands to be vital components of estuarine and marine environments because they provide aquatic food chains, nesting sites, cover, foraging grounds and habitats for birds, reptiles, mammals and organisms, as well as nursery areas for fish, crustaceans and shellfish. Mangroves also serve as storm buffers and wind breaks, while stabilizing shorelines, reducing water turbidity and improving water quality. “They are one of the most biologically productive ecosystems in the world. The cumulative loss of this habitat has reduced overall water quality and fisheries production within the western Florida see mangroves, page 19

APRIL 1, 2015

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THE SUN

Commission approves pier survey

Welch out as building official

The commission voted to have the mayor negotiate with the developers of Angler’s Cove about selling a lot to them to develop as a park. BY TOM VAUGHT SUN STAFF WRITER | tvaught@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA – The city commission gave a thumbs up to a proposed survey of the pilings and stringers of the city pier. Mayor Dan Murphy said such a survey had never been conducted. He said members of the Tourist Development Council suggested the survey and it would cost around $60,000, with the county and city each paying half. “We have $11,000 in our pier contingency fund and we can get the other $19,000 from the cell tower rent money,” Murphy said. Commissioners Doug Copeland and Carol Carter agreed. Commission Chair Chuck Webb said the pier is rickety, and Commissioner Nancy Yetter drew laughs when she said the

FILE PHOTO

The Anna Maria City Pier will get its first comprehensive checkup in a while, financed in part by the county's bed tax,, to make sure it is safe. pier sways with the waves so much it makes her seasick. They approved survey unanimously The commission also unanimously voted to have Murphy negotiate with the developers of Angler’s Cove about selling a lot to them to develop as a park. The lot is the only one without water exposure, and the developers

came to Murphy suggesting the city sell them the lot, which the original developers gave to the city to they could make it into a park for their homeowners to enjoy. Commissioners passed a resolution setting policy for the city to accept unsolicited gifts without strings attached. The city would not accept money earmarked for any specific

Bob Welch will no longer serve as Anna Maria Building Official as of April 12, according to Mayor Dan Murphy. In his memo, Murphy said Welch was going to pursue other business opportunities. He said he would formulate a plan to fill the vacancy. Welch actually works for MT Causley after the city contracted with the company for a building official. Before contracting with Causley, Welch served as building official for Anna Maria from February 2000 to March 2002 before moving to Bradenton Beach from March 2002 to February 2004. He went to work at MT Causley in February 2004 and was assigned to Anna Maria. Murphy said Welch has a long history of the city, and he thanked Welch for his service.

THE SUN

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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APRIL 1, 2015

EDITORIAL A time to celebrate the season

passing cold front dealt CityFest a blow Friday evening when temperatures dipped into the 50s and the wind blew and rain fell. But organizers recovered well Saturday morning when the sun came out and warmed the crowd at the Holmes Beach City Hall field. While the wind took a toll on some of the items vendors were selling, the crowd was out in good numbers to enjoy the music, shop, eat, drink and ogle the custom, antique and exotic vehicles in the LaPensee Car Show. It was a good time for all and this last shot of cold air might be remembered fondly when we get into the heat of summer. CityFest is all about living and vacationing on one of the most beautiful Islands around. It's a time to forget disagreements and welcome tourists and snowbirds to enjoy our seasonally mild weather, even when it's not so mild.

nd speaking of celebrating, this Saturday, April 4, marks the 29th Annual Easter Egg Hunt at the Sandbar Restaurant, an event which draws hundreds of children and families to the beach each year in search of those everpopular, prize-filled plastic eggs. The fun starts promptly at 9 a.m. on the sand but the Sandbar will be serving refreshments under the pavilion beginning at 8:30, and it's usually wise to get there early and be set to go when the hunt begins, which again is at 9 a.m. sharp. Following the egg hunt, the Easter Bunny will lead a walk down Pine Avenue to 317 Pine, where several more events geared toward kids and grownups will be held. The Easter Egg roll will begin when everyone has made the walk down Pine and will end by 11 a.m. There also will be a coloring station set up. Then at 10:30, the Easter bonnet contests will be held - one for youngsters and one for adults. First prize for adults is a free stay at one of the Anna Maria guest houses on Pine and the children’s first prize is lunch with four of their friends including ice cream sundaes. This will be the 13th year that The Sun has been a sponsor of the egg hunt and we're happy to have contributed and been a part of this fun event. Happy Easter!

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Mini-hotels need regulation When I bought my home in Holmes Beach a little over 10 years ago, I looked at condos both on and off the beach. As I was planning to actually live here, I researched the zoning before choosing my home. I was told beachfront properties were in the "Resort Zone," which allowed short-term rentals. I found out the zoning in R-2 prevented the operation of businesses and commercial activities, and only allowed resort housing as an accessory use. It was because of this stipulation I chose a home within the R-2 zone. The neighborhood was a nice mix of annual rentals, snowbirds, retirees, and the workers that kept the Island businesses running. Now? Only three annual rentals are left, the rest replaced with oversized duplexes, impractical for daily use. These mini-hotels are owned by investors who care little about the Island and never spend a night in that "home" they own. Most are owned by corporations. Since when did accessory use mean primary or exclusive use? I applaud the governments of Anna Maria and Bradenton

The Anna Maria Island Sun Staff Publishers Mike Field Maggie Field Editor/CEO Mike Field

Beach for looking to the court to interpret existing law, and I wish Holmes Beach would do the same. Holmes Beach has the strongest existing zoning regulations of the three cities, yet every day, we lose another family dwelling to another mini-motel. Since when does THAT fit the definition of "no commercial activity" or "accessory use?" Laurel Nevans Holmes Beach

Wrong interpretation After reading both Ms. Butler's and Ms. McCrae's articles (Island Sun Letters to the Editor 3/11 and 3/18), about "turtle nesting", it seems to me that Ms. McCrae misinterpreted Ms. Butler's letter. She did not write about "why we needed to fluff up the sand." It was why this particular time frame? Also she didn't question why the beach renourishment had to be done; as with the fluffing issue, she was concerned about the timing. And what does Ms.McCrae know about "the mentality" of some of the folks that visit our Island? A lot of them are seniors who have arthritis in their knees and also maybe

Layout Ricardo Fonseca

Outdoors editor Rusty Chinnis

Reporters Pat Copeland Cindy Lane Tom Vaught Joe Hendricks

Ad director Chantelle Lewin Ad assistant Chris Boniberger

Columnists Louise Bolger

Classified ads Bob Alexander

have hip problems. I place them way above turtles. I first came to the Island 40 years ago and am currently a Florida resident. I too have seen many changes: some good, some not so good. But that was not the point of the first letter. I believe local residents have been cooperative, respecting Island policy regarding the extinguishing of outdoor lights beginning May 1, to facilitate turtle nesting. The turtles seem to have waited until then, too. I suggest to Ms. McCrae that she stick to the subject and the facts and refrain from personal attacks. Lynnda Jeffries Anna Maria Island

Negotiate new waste contract As the city begins negotiating the new long-term contract for waste and recycling services, this is the perfect time to make our voice heard regarding our community’s desire for responsible and timely handling of our refuse.

Graphics Elaine Stroili Ricardo Fonseca Web Jocelyn V. Greene Accounting John Reitz

SEE LETTERS, PAGE 7

Distribution Bob Alexander Keith Isner Tony McNulty Contributors Steve Borggren Tom Breiter Troy Morgan Monica Simpson

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APRIL 1, 2015

THE SUN

the sun survey

on the agenda

LAST WEEK’S QUESTION: What is your opinion of the proposal to establish a water taxi between Anna Maria Island and Pinellas County?

Anna Maria

10%

I could support the plan as long as the ferry docked somewhere other than the City Pier.

4/2: City Pier Park Committee, 10 a.m. 4/6: EEEC Committee, 4 p.m. For information, call 7086130.

4/1: Parks and Beautification Advisory Board, 4 p.m. 4/4: Island Congestion Committee, Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, 6608 Marina Drive, 10 a.m. For information, call 7085800.

Bradenton Beach

Island-wide

10005 Gulf Drive

107 Gulf Drive N.

64%

Just what we need - more tourists. Don't like the idea at all.

THIS WEEK’S SURVEY With the increase in tourism to AMI, do you think a tall, fixedspan bridge on Manatee Avenue is the best choice for a replacement?

26%

I think it's a great idea. It would make Pinellas County and AMI more accessible to locals as well as tourists.

• No. A 65-foot tall bridge will be totally out of scale for the Island. • Yes. The bigger bridge is needed to handle the volume of traffic.

• No. A bigger bridge will just bring more cars. • Yes. The whole drawbridge concept is outdated.

To vote, go to www.amisun.com or scan this code to vote by smartphone.

4/1: Capital Improvement Project Committee, 10:30 a.m. 4/1: Pier Team, 11 a.m. 4/2: City Commission meeting, 6 p.m. 4/7: City Commission work session, 1 p.m. 4/8: Planning and Zoning Board, 1 p.m. 4/9: Department head meeting, 1 p.m. 4/9: Charter Review Commission, 3 p.m. For information, call 7781005.

Holmes Beach 5801 Marina Drive

Note: Events are free unless indicated.

Wednesday April 1

Early Settler’s Bread for sale, AMI Historical Museum, 402 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., $5. Chair yoga, Anna Maria Island Art League, 5312 Holmes Blvd., Holmes Beach, 11:45 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., $8. Register to 941-778-2099. April 2

View The Sun’s online edition at www.issuu.com/AnnaMariaIslandSun

Knitting/crochet group, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2 p.m.

Friday April 3

LETTERS FROM PAGE 6

First, let’s make it easy for everyone to recycle by requiring collection bins at all beachheads. In the long-term, we should expect our next service provider to embrace and implement single-stream recycling practices (co-mingling of recyclables). As we make it easier to recycle, we are also likely to need larger bins – so lets be sure that provision is included in the contract as well. Second, let’s anticipate the times

when the amount of beach waste is over the top (so to speak). For example, Independence Day falls on a Saturday this year and our beaches will be bustling with lots of sun lovers for several days straight, weekend days. And they will all generate lots of waste. During times like this, our new contract should specify the placement of more containers and/ or an increased frequency that certain containers are emptied - perhaps even daily. It’s pretty obvious when you think about it, right? “But it’s a holiday weekend”, you

say. “No one works on those days”. Really? What about the bars, restaurants, shops, marinas, gas stations, grocery stores, trolley drivers and first responders? When customers want service, they always get it. We (Holmes Beach) are the customers, so let’s be proactive and include this in the contract. Let's make it easy for the visitors to help us keep our Island beautiful. Mike and Cessala Hirsh Holmes Beach

4/1: Joint meeting of the Palma Sola, Bradenton Beach and Tamiami Trial scenic highways, MPO office, 7632 15th St. E., Sarasota, 1:30 to 3 p.m.

Good Friday

The administrative offices of the West Manatee Fire & Rescue District and the cities of Anna Maria, Bradenton Beach and Holmes Beach will be closed. The Island Community Center will be closed. The Island Branch Library will be closed Saturday, April 4, and the Tingley Memorial Library will be closed Friday, April 3.

mark your calendar

Thursday

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Android basics class, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2 p.m. Sunset full moon paddle, Robinson Preserve, 99th Street Northwest and 17th Avenue Northwest, Bradenton, 6:30 to 9 p.m. Reserve to 941-742-5757, ext. 7,

Saturday April 4

Wild kids weekend, Robinson Preserve, 99th Street Northwest and 17th Avenue Northwest, Bradenton, 10

a.m. to noon. Reserve to 941-742-5757, ext. 4 Butterfly arts and crafts show, Holmes Beach City Hall field, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Photography challenge gallery presentation, Valentine House at Robinson Preserve, 99th Street Northwest and 17th Avenue Northwest, Bradenton, 5 to 7 p.m. Reserve to 941-7484501, ext. 6044.

Sunday April 5

Butterfly arts and crafts show, Holmes Beach City Hall field, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Monday April 6

Chair yoga, Anna Maria Island Art League, 5312 Holmes Blvd., Holmes Beach, 11 to 11:45 a.m., $8. Register to 941-778-2099. Social bridge games, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, noon.

Tuesday April 7

Children’s story time, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m. Duplicate bridge, Church of SEE CALENDAR, PAGE 8

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THE SUN

mark your calendar From Page 7

the Annunciation, 4408 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, 12:30 p.m. Internet searching class, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2 p.m.

Wednesday April 8

Thursday April 9

Lecture on “Reverse Mortgage Basics,” Island Branch

Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2 p.m.

Friday April 10

Forty Carrots program for babies and children to age 5, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m. Alzheimer’s caregivers’ group, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2 p.m.

Saturday April 11

Master Gardener tour, Riverview Pointe Preserve, end of 75th Street, Bradenton, 9 to 11 a.m. Reserve to 941-722-4524. Bottle Boat Regatta, Palma Sola Causeway, 10 a.m. Origami class, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m. Music on the porch, Florida Maritime Museum, Cortez Road and 119th Street West, Cortez, 2 to 5 p.m.

APRIL 1, 2015

New bridge design input sought The Manatee County Commission and the FDOT decided on a 65-foot, fixedspan bridge to replace the drawbridge on Manatee Avenue. BY TOM VAUGHT SUN STAFF WRITER | tvaught@amisun.com

HOLMES BEACH – Mayor Bob Johnson got an e-mail last week from Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) Project Manager Kati Sherrard asking for a volunteer to serve on a Bridge Aesthetics Committee. According to the e-mail, “We have an opportunity to work with the local community to design a bridge that will fit in harmony with the surrounding environment and embody the character of the community both now and in the future.” Sherrad’s e-mail said the committee would be consensus

based and meet at various times throughout the design process and she invited Johnson to name someone from Holmes Beach to represent the community. He has until April 30 to do so. The e-mail also says FDOT has found the funding for the design process and will seek money to construct the bridge when the design is complete. FDOT completed a project development and environment study in 2010. In 2009, it announced its preference, a 65-foot-tall, fixed-span bridge with two lanes and two safety lanes that will be constructed just south of the existing bridge. There was one attempt to replace the drawbridge with a high-level bridge. Built in 1957, the bridge showed its age in 1992, when FDOT Regional Director David May came to the city governments and told them that FDOT had decided to replace the drawbridge with a 65-foot-high, fixed-span. That

announcement created a public uproar, due mainly to the fact that there had been little, if any, news that a replacement was being considered. Some of those opposed banded together to form Save Anna Maria (SAM), which hired an attorney and finally proved that FDOT had not followed procedure in alerting the public to the project, and it was scrapped. When FDOT announced in late 2007 that it was going to refurbish the bridge to the tune of almost $10 million, members of the public asked FDOT to consider replacing the bridge, instead. The highway department said it could not because the funds were set aside for the rehabilitation, not replacement of the bridge, but they did agree to do a study on replacing it and said they would seek funding later. The newly refurbished structure is expected to last up to 25 years.

APRIL 1, 2015

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THE SUN

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THE SUN

APRIL 1, 2015

Blue Fulford now a legend BY CINDY LANE SUN STAFF WRITER | clane@amisun.com

CORTEZ – Like a number on a baseball jersey, the Cortez nickname “Blue” will be retired after the passing last Saturday of Thomas Rollan “Blue” Fulford Jr., 84. The Manatee County Agricultural Hall of Famer was known for turning a phrase, as in, “Florida voters swallowed the net ban propaganda hook, line and sinker.” He could command attention in a room full of shouting fishermen by tapping his cane on the wooden floor. And, most essential of all, he was a commercial fisherman, a good one, they say. Fulford’s legacy is knotted into the history of the Cortez fishing village like the mesh in one of his handmade nets. He learned to fish as a boy by watching his uncle, Tink Fulford, later passing it on to his sons, Larry and Paul. Fishing allowed his family to eat during the Depression, since Cortez bordered the Kitchen – Sarasota Bay. Fulford used to say that Cortezians had fish and grits for breakfast, fish and grits for dinner and leftovers for supper. He attended the 1912 Cortez schoolhouse, and was active in its conversion to

L A U N N 5th A

the Florida Maritime Museum. Too young to serve during World War II, he fished, grateful that he would not lose an arm or leg in the service. But tragically, a fishing accident cost him a leg in 1987. He went right back to fishing.

nized Fishermen of Florida (OFF), advocating for significant fishing laws that were passed, including reserving fisheries regulation to the state rather than local governments. He served as the first president of the Florida Institute for Saltwater Heritage – FISH – which has used funds from the Cortez Commercial Fishing Festival for 33 years to buy 95 waterfront acres east of Cortez village as a preserve to build up fish stock. Each year at the festival, he demonstrated making and mending nets, mourning the loss of the knowledge of net making and net fishing, and the loss of pristine coastline to development.

The gill net ban

When he was inducted into the Agricultural Hall of Fame in 2004, he thanked Providence and spoke of being humbled in the company of “the elite of Manatee County,” then said that there was one thing that would have been even better – the reversal of the commercial gill net ban. In 1994, voters passed a state constitutional amendment eliminating gill nets, used to catch mullet, a Cortez staple, forcing fishermen, including Fulford, into other occupations. Fulford opened Cortez Quality Castnets, which he operated from a shed in back of his home, where he could watch the mullet jumping. His business card labeled him a “dispossessed net fisherman.” He maintained for the past 20 years that the net ban was wrong, saying that more fish have been killed by red tide than by commercial fishermen. He called fishermen an easy target, saying their activities

Last of his kind

CINDY LANE | SUN

Fulford mends a net next to his wife, Juanda Fulford, at the Cortez Commercial Fishing Festival in 2009. are more easily regulated than polluted runoff, mangrove destruction and other causes of fishery declines. He served as director of the Orga-

With his passing, Cortez village mourns the loss of one of the last members of his generation, said Mark Taylor, who worked on one of Fulford’s boats for several years. “He was a pillar of the community and a good fisherman,” said Taylor, who followed Fulford as state president of OFF. “He was a very colorful person in Cortez and a persuasive speaker,” said Linda see FULFORD, page 14

Food and Wine on Pine May 2, 11:30am - 6:30pm

SHOWCASING OUR AREA’S BEST FOOD, WINE, ART & MUSIC HISTORIC PINE AVENUE, ANNA MARIA ISLAND

• 20+ Local Restaurants

• Over 30 Musical Performances

• 40 Juried Artists

• Historic Character Skits

• 30 Wineries • Craft Beers

• Children’s Activity Area

Park & Ride Free Trolley Parking available at Anna Maria Island Community Center & CrossPointe Fellowship Church

www.foodandwineonpine.com • For info call 941.778.8705 • Rain date May 3

Includes a Kentucky Derby Experience At Pine Avenue Downs! Hat Contest! Races Televised! SPONSORED BY ®

ATMs on site

APRIL 1, 2015

Come visit us

BY LAND 4110 127th St. W, Cortez, Florida 34215 BY SEA MARKER 49 on the ICW | 27˚28,215 N 82˚41,425 W TEL 941.794.1235 | SEAFOODSHACK.COM HOURS Sun-Thurs: 11am - 9pm | Fri & Sat: 11am - 10pm

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APRIL 1, 2015

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APRIL 1, 2015

THE SUN

Learning to kayak at Robinson

Beginners learned the ropes – er, paddles – of kayaking at Robinson Preserve last week, enjoying a spring day and the wildlife and native vegetation at the popular county preserve in northwest Bradenton.

CINDY LANE | sun

The class gathered to hear instructor Wayne Douchkoff’s safety talk, emphasizing warming up with stretches, wearing personal flotation devices, drinking water and other safety tips.

CINDY LANE | sun

The beginner’s group tried out their new skills on the lake at Robinson Preserve. Students said they wanted to learn to kayak to get out in nature and for exercise. Douchkoff said that former students, including a mother and daughter in their 80s and 60s, respectively, learned to tandem kayak – two to a boat – while a couple of former students are now touring the country with their kayaks.

CINDY LANE | sun

The group learned to raft up, coming alongside each other facing the same direction and holding each other’s kayaks steady.

CINDY LANE | sun

Above, instructors demonstrated how to get back in the kayak if you fall in water over your head – flipping the boat over by turning the nose of the kayak and pulling yourself aboard in the center while a partner holds the kayak steady. An alternate method is carrying a strap with a five-inch plastic tube to be held by one kayaker while the other uses it as a stirrup to step into the boat. A volunteer also showed the advanced move of flipping upside down and then right side up again. Left, Douchkoff discussed paddling techniques to maximize power and minimize strain on muscles and joints – the paddle should enter the water at your feet, the blade should be submerged totally and be pushed through while rotating the body, then lifted from the water at your hips, he said. CINDY LANE | sun

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APRIL 1, 2015

Silver Affaire promises exciting changes Special recognition will be given to those who have made the Affaire a success through its 25 years. BY PAT COPELAND SUN STAFF WRITER | pcopeland@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA â€“ Guests attending the Silver Affaire to Remember can expect some new touches and exciting changes at the 25th anniversary of the annual event to be held in the Centerâ€™s Grand Ballroom on Saturday, April 18. Executive Director Cindy Thompson said special recognition would be given to those who have made the Affaire a success through the years. They include former Executive Director Pierrette Kelly and former Assistant Director Scott Dell. Trudy Moon, the Affaireâ€™s chair for 23 years, and Center benefactors Chuck and Joey Lester will be given special awards. The Affaire had a humble beginning as a dinner auction with food booths by local restaurants. People donated used items to be auctioned

and attended in shorts and T-shirts. The highlight was a cheesecake contest. In 1990, it raised $5,000, but after Moon took over the event in 1993, it began to evolve into the Islandâ€™s premier social event. By 1998, it had broken the $100,000 mark. It surpassed $200,000 in 2003 and $300,000 in 2004 and then came its best year, 2005, with nearly $800,000. Center officials are planning to bring back that past excitement with some of this yearâ€™s changes. One of those will be online and mobile bidding for the silent auction. People can bring their own cell phones or use one provided by the Center, and instructions will be provided at the event. The live auction will be pared down to eight to 10 fabulous packages, and paddles will be used for this portion of the event. Guests also can swipe their credit cards when they enter to make checkout quicker.

submitted

The nine-person band, MPiRE, will perform hits from the last four decades with a mix of current material added.

Food and fun

â€œWe have a new food purveyor this year. The Chiles Restaurant Group will be providing all the food for the event,â€? Thompson said. Owner Ed Chiles said he plans to do â€œsomething very impressiveâ€?

with the menu and it would be â€œa world class event," so guests can expect some exciting surprises there. In addition, a nine-person band, MPiRE, will provide entertainment and perform hits from the last

four decades with a mix of current material added. Members include Meredith Walker, lead vocalist and co-creator; Carmen â€œSunnyâ€? Harrell, lead vocalist; Tony Manna, keyboard, drums, percussion and vocals; Jordan Itzkovitz, guitar and vocals; Eric Van Lugo, bass and vocals; Dru Betts, drums; Gary Anstey, trombone and vocals; and Joe Bolero, saxophone; and Steve Falkner, trumpet. Tickets at $175 per person are nearly sold out, and sponsorships are still available. The black tie event begins with social hour at 6 p.m., and dinner will be served at 7:30 p.m. Sponsorships are still available and include Affaire, $10,000; Entertainment, $6,000; Gold, $5,000; Silver, $2,500; Bronze, $1,500; and Friend, $500. To become a sponsor, contact Affaire Chair Dawn Mishler at 941-518-4997 or by e-mail at dmishler@tampabay.rr.com.

FULFORD: A cortez legend passes FROM PAGE 10

Molto, who worked with Fulford at FISH. â€œI am going to miss him,â€? said Capt. Kathe Fannon, whom Blue called â€œKittenâ€? ever since she was a child. Fannonâ€™s father, Frank Tupin, fished with Fulford, but had a doctorâ€™s appointment the day Fulford lost his leg on the boat, she re-

called. â€œMy heart is so broken.â€? Fulford will be remembered at one of his favorite events, the Cortez Community Picnic, on Saturday, April 11, at 11:30 a.m., at the Few-Miller dock on the Cortez waterfront. No other services are planned. He was known to sing at the picnics with his pal, Cortez harmonica player

Wyman Coarsey. Last year, he and his wife, Juanda, sang a duet in the video production â€œGone Fishing for Old Florida: Voices of Cortez,â€? which aired on the WEDU series, â€œDiamonds Along the Highway.â€? Most people think that Fulford got his nickname because of his very blue eyes. But Fulford said the name was a result

of his mother making him recite the rhyme, â€œLittle boy blue come blow your horn.â€? He did it so often, â€œPeople would say, â€˜Here comes little boy Blue,â€™ â€? he recalled a few years ago. A grandson proudly bears his name, carrying on the heritage of the unofficial mayor of Cortez. But there will never be another â€œBlue.â€?

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For location, hours of operation and further details about our award-winning communities throughout Florida, visit mintofla.com. © Minto Communities, LLC 2015. 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. Artist’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. 4/2015

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APRIL 1, 2015

Melt in your mouth Butterfish - Riverhouse Reef & Grill

Doo-Shots CD release Friday Ted Stevens and the Doo-Shots will celebrate the release of their new CD, â€œCursed Cadillac,â€? Friday, April 3 at Island Time Bar & Grill in Bradenton Beach. Taking place from 7 to 10 p.m., the release party will feature live performances of many of the 10 new songs written by guitarist and vocalist Ted Stevens; and folks can pick up a copy of the new CD for whatever donation they wish to make. â€œCursed Cadillacâ€? is the first Ted Stevens studio recording to feature Butch Alan on bass, and the second to feature Joe Hendricks on drums. More info available at www.TedStevens.FourFour.com.

The VanDerNoord family has owned the â€œRegatta Pointe Marina for over 25 years and have always had a strong local community connection. The Riverhouse Reef is a unique location built on an island, so with our original location and strong local connection, joining

â€?

the Originals was a natural fit!

Peter VanDerNoord, Riverhouse Reef & Grill

EAT LIKE A LOCAL DineOriginal.com 15 South Ristorante â€˘ Andreaâ€™s â€˘ Anna Maria Oyster Bar â€˘ Beach House â€˘ The Bijou CafĂŠ â€˘ Bridge Street Bistro â€˘ The Broken Egg â€˘ CafĂŠ Americano â€˘ CafĂŠ Baci â€˘ CafĂŠ Gabbiano â€˘ CafĂŠ Lâ€™Europe â€˘ CafĂŠ Venice â€˘ Caragiulos â€˘ Cedar Reef Fish Camp â€˘ Ciao! Italia â€˘ Cosimoâ€™s Restaurant & Catering â€˘ The Crowâ€™s Nest â€˘ Darwinâ€™s on 4th â€˘ Derekâ€™s â€˘ Drunken Poet CafĂŠ â€˘ Duvalâ€™s â€˘ Euphemia Haye â€˘ Fast N Fresh â€˘ Gold Rush BBQ â€˘ Gulf Drive CafĂŠ + Tiki â€˘ Half Shell Seafood House â€˘ Harryâ€™s Continental Kitchens â€˘ JPAN Restaurant â€˘ Lobster Pot â€˘ Lynches Pub & Grub â€˘ Madfish Grill â€˘ Mar Vista Dockside Restaurant & Pub â€˘ Michael Johnâ€™s â€˘ Michaelâ€™s On East â€˘ mi Pueblo â€˘ Opheliaâ€™s On The Bay â€˘ Ortygia Restaurant â€˘ Pacific Rim â€˘ Pattigeorgeâ€™s â€˘ Pier 22 Restaurant â€˘ Polo Grill & Bar â€˘ Primo! Ristorante â€˘ Riverhouse Reef & Grill â€˘ Roesslerâ€™s Restaurant â€˘ Salute! Restaurant â€˘ Sandbar Seafood & Spirits â€˘ Savory Street â€˘ Sharkyâ€™s On The Pier â€˘ Siesta Key Oyster Bar â€˘ SoMa Creek Side â€˘ Village CafĂŠ â€˘ The Waterfront Restaurant on Anna Maria â€˘ The White Horse Pub

APRIL 1, 2015

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THE SUN

New owner Steve and Marci Rosehelm have purchased Bortellâ€™s Lounge from longtime owners Marie and Al Paella and they will shut down for a few days until they get the liquor license transferred. He said they would keep it as is, including pool tables and jukebox, until the off-season before they make changes. He said he wants it to continue as a neighborhood bar that welcomes travelers. TOM VAUGHT | SUN

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MANGROVES: Corps rejects removal FROM PAGE 4

ecosystem. The EPA considers these mangrove wetlands to be aquatic resources of national importance and believes the proposed project may have substantial and unacceptable adverse impact to the mangroves,” O’Kane’s letter states. “You have not clearly demonstrated to the Corps that practicable onsite and off-site alternatives are not available. You have not considered alternate site plans or other measures that would avoid and minimize impacts on the site wetlands. Therefore, my staff will be recommending that the permit be denied,” O’Kane’s letter concludes. Neal was given 30 days to provide additional information to the Corps. O’Kane’s position coincides with the June 2014 opinion provided by the Jay Herrington, field supervisor for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. “Permitting the destruction of mangrove wetlands for a non-water residential development project while less environmentally damaging alternatives are available would set an unacceptable precedent. Because of the high value associated with the mangrove wetlands that would be impacted by the proposed project, and the presence of practicable alternatives, we recommend the Corps not issue a permit for the project as currently proposed” Herrington wrote.

Additional challenges

Neal’s request to build a family compound on 2.47 acres of his 40acre parcel would eventually require approval from the Bradenton City Council and is currently subject to an administrative challenge of a permit issued by the Southwest Florida Water Management District (Swiftmud). The permit challenge was initiated by former County Commissioner

H O L I S T I C

Joe McClash and supported by the Florida Institute for Saltwater Heritage, ManaSota 88 and the Sierra Club. The hearings took place in mid-February, and a judge’s ruling is expected within two months. Former County Commissioner Jane von Hahmann serves on the FISH board of directors and she attended the Swiftmud hearings. “What I found most interesting was how much of their reasoning matched the expert information we, as challengers, presented at our hearing, challenging the Swiftmud permit,” she said in regard to the Army Corps’ letter. “The key comments I took away from the ACOE letter was the statement that the project is not in compliance with the Clean Water Act and their finding that the proposal is contrary to the public interest,” von Hahmann said.

Neal response

When recently contacted about the Swiftmud challenge, Neal’s representatives provided a five-page Environmental Benefits of Harbor Sound report prepared by ECo Consultants. The document states that the developer must avoid protected habitats to the greatest extent possible and minimize and mitigate adverse impacts to protected habitats, while still being allowed reasonable use of the land. “Due to the size, shape and constraints of the property, it cannot be reasonably developed without some impact to native habitats occurring,” the report states. It ends by describing Neal’s request as a “proposed project which the professional environmental scientists, biologists and wetland scientists have agreed will result in an overall environmental benefit to Manatee County and the state of Florida.”

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Weather wallops CityFest Just when you think it's safe to come outside, winter returns. That's what happened Friday night when the mercury dipped and the clouds opened. Most of the people at City Fest in the field next to Holmes Beach City Hall left early. The rain stopped Saturday, but the temperature stayed low and the wind took its toll on the vendors' merchandise.

tOM VAUGHT

Above, this 1941 Ford woodie was a hit with the Beach Boys fans at the LaPensee Auto Show. Below, Ken Garner shows off his wellappointed 1953 Ford panel truck.

tOM VAUGHT

Above, Sandy and Laura Alderson braved the cold to sell Tyler's Ice Cream. At right, the crowd enjoyed the sounds of Mike Sales Saturday afternoon.

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APRIL 1, 2015

Recall effort in final stage As of Monday morning, the Committee to Recall William Shearon felt it had a sufficient number of petition signatures to file for a potential recall election. The number of petitions required in the second and final round of petition signature gathering is 115. The committee plans to submit the signed petition forms to acting City Clerk Terri Sanclemente this week. Those forms will then be delivered to the Supervisor of Elections Office. If the elections office verifies that at least 115 petitions were signed by registered Bradenton Beach voters, the elections office would request from a county judge an order for a special recall election, which would take place 30 and 60 days after the order is given. The efforts to recall Mayor Shearon comes to an end if less than 115 signatures are accepted by the election office. If a special election occurs, city voters will decide whether Shearon remains in office until his first term expires in November, or is replaced for the remainder of his term by Vice Mayor Jack Clarke or another candidate.

Spring break hours at the Center The Anna Maria Island Community Center will close at 7:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday March 31 and April 1 and 2. The Center will be closed on Friday, Saturday and Sunday, April 3, 4 and 5.

Distinctive Homes for Casual Lifestyles CBC060236

www.GagneConstruction.com

APRIL 1, 2015

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Congestion committee to meet Saturday Holmes Beach’s Island Congestion Committee has called a meeting for Saturday, April 4, at 10 a.m. at Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, 6608 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. The agenda includes:

Owner Steve Traves Outdoor Pro

• Share information from Public Works Director Jim McGuinness regarding his ideas for neighborhood parking and what has been successful in other municipalities where he has worked;

• Prioritize the most affected streets and neighborhoods and create three scenarios from which commissioners can choose; • Discuss data collection on severely affected streets.

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APRIL 1, 2015

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OUTDOORS

APRIL 1, 2015

Anglers welcome signs of spring

pring is here. I can feel it, even if the fish haven’t given a clear signal yet. My tangerine tree is showing the first hint of blooms and I recently heard the first whippoorwill trilling in the pre-dawn darkness. These have proven to be sure signs of spring and welcome harbingers to local anglers. This doesn’t mean that there won’t be another cold snap, even if the calendar says it's spring. Experience tells the savvy angler that fish have their own special calendar, one that consists more of the angle of the sun and the length of the day than the temperature and the predictions of the weatherman. Water temperatures that hover in the 70s bring fish out of their winter haunts. It doesn’t matter if it’s winter one day and spring the next. Even if the weather tells us a different story, we know to start watching for the signs of spring. We’ll keep an eye on the Gulf, looking for the first snook in the surf and for wheeling, diving sea birds as they feast on schools of baitfish that will begin to gather off

Reel Time RUSTY CHINNIS the beaches in their seasonal primal ritual. We know from experience that schools of little tunny, Spanish mackerel, cobia and kingfish won’t be far behind. It could be just a matter of days before they will be swarming the bait schools, wrecks, reefs and hard bottom just off the beaches. In the bay, schools of trout, redfish and snook also will be roaming the flats in search of pilchards, shrimp and glass minnows to replenish themselves from their winter fast. Spring is the time when local anglers have a host of piscatorial choices and some of the best conditions to pursue them. Of course, it can all seem just an illusion as another front riles the Gulf,

sending chill winds and muddy water into the bay, forcing us to put on a sweatshirt. It’s a sort of swing time and the kind of weather that plays with the emotions of the die-hard angler. But hope springs eternal, and we know from experience that it won’t be long before the prophecy is realized. That’s why it’s time to be prepared, flies tied and tackle ready for that day when it’s no longer a question of when it will happen, but what species we’ll fish for! I like this time of year even if it can be exasperating. One day the flats and Gulf can be barren, and the next the action red hot. That’s why it so important to be ready for just about anything. Having a rig on board that can handle a big cobia or kingfish makes good sense, and having wire at hand in case the toothy kings make an appearance can make the difference between frustration and success. It’s a game of search and discover and the anglers that are persistent will eventually be SEE reel time, PAGE 28

CAPTAIN BRYON CHAMBERLIN | SUBMITTED

Cobia have a way of showing up out of the blue in the early spring. Be prepared and you can cash in on the action.

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APRIL 1, 2015

THE SUN

Time for trout Captain Rick Grassett

CAPTAIN RICK GRASSETT | submitted

John Mathis, from University Park, FL, caught and released this Spanish mackerel on a CAL jig with a shad tail while fishing Sarasota Bay with Capt. Rick Grassett.

Fly and spin 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 and Spanish mackerel in Sarasota Bay on flies, CAL jigs with shad tails, DOA Deadly Combos and top water plugs during the past week. Beale Ong, from St. Michaels, Md., and John Mathis, from University Park, Fla., fished Sarasota Bay with me on Wednesday afternoon. We worked deep grass flats on both sides of the bay where they caught and released trout and Spanish mackerel on CAL jigs with shad tails and Ultra Hair Clouser flies fished on sink tip fly lines. Shane Reilly and Austin Bitta, both from

Libertyville, Ill., fished the same areas with me on Thursday. They had steady action with trout to 18 inches on CAL jigs with shad tails, top water plugs and DOA Deadly Combos. Orvis Social Media Director Tucker Kimball, from Vermont, also fished Sarasota Bay with me on Friday. We worked deep grass flats and edges of bars on the west side of the bay where he caught and released trout and Jacks on Ultra Hair Clouser and EP flies. You may find trout, Spanish mackerel, blues, pompano or flounder on deep grass flats, particularly close to passes. Look for reds, snook and big trout mixed with mullet schools on shallow flats and edges of bars.

GCOOS innovates in ocean research The Gulf of Mexico Coastal Ocean Observing System Regional Association celebrated its 10th anniversary last week in New Orleans, announcing its priorities for the next five years. The non-profit organization is developing a network to provide timely information about the oceans for oil, gas and maritime industries, recreational boaters and ocean users and government resource managers

tasked with protecting and sustaining natural resources. Priorities include: • Expansion of the high frequency radar (HFR) system in the Gulf of Mexico, a system of transmitters and radio antenna receivers along coastlines or on oil platforms that transmit radio signals relayed to the receivers after bouncing off the ocean's

surface. These signals indicate where currents are moving and sometimes, wave heights. This information leads to better data in near-real time and improved forecast models. Faster predictions can be vital when coastlines are at risk from hurricanes and oil spills such as the one that occurred after the 2010 Deepwater Horizon explosion. Nineteen HFR stations are currently in

the Gulf and Southeastern Atlantic coast. • Supporting autonomous underwater gliders (AUGs) and autonomous surface vehicles (ASVs) as data collection and observing platforms in the Gulf. • Sustaining current observation assets, such as moored buoys, water level stations and water quality monitoring stations. For more information, visit www.gcoos.org.

tide chart for anna maria city pier April 1-8 A.M. High Time Feet

A.M. Low Time Feet

P.M. High Time Feet

P.M. Low Time Feet

Sun Rise Set

Day Date

A.M. High Time Feet

A.M. Low Time Feet

P.M. High Time Feet

P.M. Low Time Feet

Sun Rise Set

Wed 4/1

11:04a 1.60

4:46a 0.14

10:44p 1.79

4:45p 0.57

7:21-7:48

Sun 4/5

12:38a 1.63

6:24a 0.59

12:06p 2.04

7:13p -0.02

7:17-7:50

Thu 4/2

11:15a 1.70

5:12a 0.24

11:22p 1.75

5:23p 0.39

Mon 4/6

1:21a 1.56

6:48a 0.69

12:32p 2.14

7:53p -0.10

Fri 4/3

11:28a 1.81

5:37a 0.36

11:59p 1.70

5:59p 0.22

Tue 4/7

2:08a 1.47

7:13a 0.80

1:02p 2.22

8:38p -0.14

Sat 4/4

11:45a 1.93

6:00a 0.47

Wed 4/8

3:03a 1.39

7:40a 0.91

1:38p 2.27

9:28p -0.16

Day Date

6:36p 0.09

7:20-7:48 7:19-7:49 7:18-7:49

7:16-7:50 7:15-7:51 7:13-7:5

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APRIL 1, 2015

SUBMITTED

Homes for oysters More than 50 of the Sarasota Bay Estuary Program’s Bay Guardian volunteers, including groups from Johnson Middle School and the Sarasota Scuba Club, filled bags with material to create new oyster habitat recently at Robinson Preserve. Oyster beds provide habitat for many species of fish and invertebrates, and oysters improve water quality through their prolific filtering capacity.

Live like a local Respect Wildlife

Reef fish Please dispose of fishing line in recycling bins; don’t clutter up our home! Anna Maria Island Sun

REEL TIME: Spring is here FROM PAGE 26

rewarded. If bait isn’t showing, try fishing the areas they are attracted to. Many times I’ve worked a top water plug or fly over structure and found fish where there was no outward sign of their presence. In the bay, work the areas of the flats that hold fish during the season, particularly the seams adjacent to sand areas and the potholes. Pay particular attention to the deep grass that is often present at the end of a hole and work your casts into the area by casting short and then progressing right over the hole. I think top water plugs and flies are particularly effective when you’re hunting for fish and can be an invaluable aid in finding action. Whatever you’re fishing style or whether you like fishing the Gulf or bays, take advantage of this swing time, and eventually you’ll be rewarded with the promise of spring.

SUBMITTED

Set them free Save our Seabirds has produced signs showing fishermen what to do if they hook a pelican while fishing. Anna Maria Island resident Jeannie Bystrom, whose Don’t Cut the Line campaign is published in The Sun, is working with Island officials to install 15 of the signs at Galati Marine, the Rod n’ Reel Pier, Anna Maria City Pier and Bayfront Park in Anna Maria; Keyes Marina, the 62nd Street boat ramp and Kingfish boat ramp in Holmes Beach; the Bradenton Beach Pier; and Annie’s Bait and Tackle, Tide Tables and Star Fish Co. in Cortez.

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APRIL 1, 2015

THE SUN

Hopkins shines in â€˜Beckyâ€™s New Carâ€™ The play runs through April 12 at the Island Players, 10009 Gulf Drive. BY TOM VAUGHT SUN STAFF WRITER | tvaught@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA â€“ The Island Players have long been adept at making the best of what they have, whether itâ€™s an improvised prop or using the aisles and seating area for part of the action, and â€œBeckyâ€™s New Car,â€? written by Steven Deitz, takes it even further. This time, they use the audience and on certain occasions they stick their characters through that invisible wall dividing them from the audience and ask one viewer to help put a bucket under a hole in the roof during a storm and another to straighten up some paperwork. Another time, as the character spoke about what was going on, he looked down at a man in the audience and asked if he agreed. When the surprised theater-goer signaled he agreed, the character asked if he wanted a beer and reached in the refrigerator and got him one, even though the can said it was ginger ale. It was a great idea by the author, and the cast pulled it off well. Director Mike Lusk had the cast ready for their first performance, a benefit show for the American Cancer Societyâ€™s

tOM VAUGHT | SUN

From left to right: Jalex Scott as Chris Foster (seated), Rodney Kwiatkowski as Joe Foster, Janet Raines as Kensington Flood, Judy Glynn as Ginger, Pamela Hopkins as Becky Foster and Jim Faltot as Walter Flood. fight against cancer. Organizer Nancy Ambrose said they nearly sold out. The star of the show is Pamela Hopkins, a brighteyed, perky lady who gives a running narrative of what is going on and why. She is much like Patricia Heaton on the campy ABC comedy show â€œThe Middle.â€? Lusk used the stage for three sets â€“ one as the familyâ€™s living room on the left and the other her desk at work on the right. He used lighting to switch from one set to the other with minimal disruption. There was also a balcony to the rear of

the stage where Becky Foster spends time with Walter Flood, played ably by Jim Faltot, a customer who still misses his wife and finally talks Becky into spending time with him at his residence, a few hours away. Beckyâ€™s salesman friend at the dealership is Steve, played by Richard Levene, is also a widower, but he has no claims on Becky. He helps her develop an alibi of spending the week supposedly to get a mega dealership open while she actually is spending time at Walterâ€™s place. It was easy for Walter, who makes a lot of money with his

billboard business, to attract the attention of Becky. After answering the phone in her office late one night with her usual, "Thank you for calling Bill Buckley Lexus-Saturn-Nissan-Mitsubishi, Home of the Fifty-Thousand-Mile Smile," Walter tells her he is looking to buy each of his employees a car for the holidays because heâ€™s had a good year. She steers him toward a nice model, because her husband always wanted one, and he buys nine of them. He tells her how lonely he is without his wife and invites her to his place three hours away, where

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some infidelity occurs. While he talks about his late wife, he assumes Beckyâ€™s husband has also passed and she does nothing to correct him. West Manatee Fire Inspector Rodney Kwiatkowski plays Joe Foster, Beckyâ€™s roofer husband who spends a lot of time installing roofs. Heâ€™s the calming personna who takes the edge off Beckyâ€™s crises, but towards the end, he steps in to reclaim his wife. Meanwhile, Beckyâ€™s son, Chris, played by Jalex Scott, is still living at home but studying psychology. He finds a woman, Kensington (Kenni) Flood, played by Janet Raines, to keep him busy as he psychoanalyzes what everyone is feeling. By the way, Beckyâ€™s possible daughter-in-law is Walterâ€™s daughter and one can see Beckyâ€™s other life is starting to unravel. While she spends time with Walter, she runs into Ginger, a woman who never held a job until she found out her familyâ€™s fortune is waning. Judy Glynn gave a great performance as a person who can no longer hold her nose in the air. As things evolve, Joe reclaims his wife, Becky reclaims her life and Walter moves on with his. When the dust settles, Becky somehow finds herself in possession of one of those nine new cars Walter bought.

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Vacation rentals on the rise Bradenton Beach officials are concerned about the construction of additional vacation rental homes. BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

BRADENTON BEACH – The vacation rental discussion often heard in Anna Maria and Holmes Beach has made its way to Bradenton Beach. At the request of Commissioner Jan Vosburgh, commissioners and staff engaged in a workshop last week to discuss the growing number of large vacation rentals and the vacation rental ordinance being considered by Anna Maria commissioners. Many potential enforcement, zoning and regulatory actions were discussed, but the conversation produced no commission action, other than a consensus that something should be done to protect residents; and Mayor Bill Shearon should continue working with fellow mayors Dan Murphy and Bob Johnson on the issue. Shearon said he supports the idea of all three cities passing similar vacation rental ordinances because it would allow the cities to join together when defending legal challenges. “I’d like to see the final version of Anna Maria ordinance when it’s passed. I’d also like to see what Holmes Beach does because they’re close to presenting something. They’re ahead of the curve, and I’d like to follow them,” Shearon said of the other cities.

Concerns expressed by Vosburgh and others stem from the recent issuance of building permits that will result in more large homes being used as rentals. Building Official Steve Gilbert said there are 12 such structures currently in the permitting stages, and 80 percent of all properties located in the city’s residential zoning districts are already used for vacation rentals. “I want to caution you about enacting ordinances or regulations, versus the cost of enforcing them,” he said. City Planner Alan Garrett said Anna Maria officials are considering hiring one full-time and three part-time code enforcement employees if their ordinance is adopted. Among other things, the Anna Maria ordinance would enact a limit of two occupants per bedroom and eight occupants per house, with designated quiet times regulating pool use. Gilbert said it would be hard to enforce occupancy limits and would require additional code enforcement personnel who would need permission to enter an occupied unit. Holmes Beach Commissioner Jean Peelen said her commission is taking a different approach – limiting the number of sleeping rooms to five per home, including dens and living rooms, with bathrooms and kitchens as the only rooms not counted as potential sleeping areas. Planning and Zoning Board member John Metz suggested future construction of large rental homes be limited to certain zoning districts. In regard to parking as a means of

enforcement, Gilbert told the commission to be wary of developing conflicting regulations that could subject the city to future lawsuits. In response to an enforcement suggestion made by Commissioner Janie Robertson, Commissioner Ed Straight said there is no way to tell which vehicles, when parked legally on the street, are associated with which building. Police Chief Sam Speciale said noise ordinance enforcement would not resolve complaints about people sitting on their decks and talking at three in the morning because those conversations take place below allowed volume thresholds. “What are you going to do? They’re not really creating a disturbance,” Speciale said. In regard to vacation rentals driving residents off the Island, Gilbert feels this has more to do with economic issues and the fact that housing dollars go farther on the mainland. Commissioner Ed Straight said traffic and congestion are the primary reasons residents are leaving. Despite concerns about the growing number of vacation rentals, there was general agreement that those currently in use are being operated appropriately. After the workshop, Vosburgh said, “I am not interested in taking away property rights or regulating vacation rentals that now exist, but some residents have expressed concerns about big party homes going into their neighborhoods. Hopefully we can address this before it becomes so big we can’t correct it.”

Second Neighborhood Watch meeting set Chief Bill Tokajer suggested that neighbors get a group together to take the training. BY PAT COPELAND SUN STAFF WRITER | pcopeland@amisun.com

HOLMES BEACH – Because his first Neighborhood Watch meeting created such interest among residents, Police Chief Bill Tokajer has set another one for Thursday, April 9, at 6 p.m. At the first meeting on March 19, Crime Prevention Specialist Tami Spyker, of the Bradenton Police Department, gave an overview of the program. “There is no patrol, and you don’t look for criminals,” she explained. “You learn to look for different things, such as suspicious people and vehicles. “You are the eyes and ears of the po-

lice department. When you see something, you notify the police department then you start a phone chain.” She said the training includes learning how to call in something suspicious and how to describe someone, as well as personal safety. “The more detail the better for us,” Tokajer added. “We hear what you say through the dispatcher. “We’re looking at everybody, and the better the description, the better chance we have of finding that person.” He suggested that neighbors get a group together to take the training. He said people also will learn how not to be easy targets of criminals and home design and safety.

Golf carts and bicycles

Tokajer spoke on golf cart safety and said there are two types of vehicles – golf carts, which are not registered and can travel at 25 mph, and low speed vehicles,

which must be registered and can travel at 35 mph. He said a map of streets where golf carts are permitted is available on the city’s Website, www. holmesbeachfl.org, under Forms and at the police department, and they can only be operated from sunrise to sunset. Tokajer also spoke on bicycle safety and stressed that bicycles on the road are considered vehicles, and bicyclists must obey the same laws as vehicles. He said bicycles do not have the right of way in crosswalks unless the rider is walking the bicycle and that bicyclists can be on sidewalks, but must sound a bell to warn pedestrians. Tokajer introduced to the group Sgt. Vern McGowin, who is training to be the department’s crime prevention specialist, and Det. Sgt. Brian Hall.

APRIL 1, 2015

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A Royale celebration The clubâ€™s 50th anniversary also marked a successful comeback for an iconic Island landmark. BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

HOLMES BEACH â€“ On Saturday night, more than 200 members of the Key Royale Club joined together to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Islandâ€™s only golf course. The celebration featured drinks, appetizers, and casino-style gaming inside the clubhouse; and dinner, drinks, dancing, and live music by the Oceans Eleven big band inside the large tent that graced the clubhouse lawn. Prepared in-house by Chef Bill Terrell and his staff, the dinner menu included a 60-pound steamship round beef roast, glazed pork loin, and a heavily-visited salad table abound with chilled shrimp. The evening also marked a recovery from challenging times the club experienced in recent years, due to the economic downturn and administrative and management issues that have now been resolved.

joe hendricks | sun

From left, Ron and Heather Pritchard, Marty and Mark Clark, and Pam Alvore celebrate their clubâ€™s 50th anniversary. â€œItâ€™s taken us three years, but weâ€™re back and running well, and the golf course has never been in better shape,â€? said new club president Gary Duncan. â€œItâ€™s a great social club for dining, dancing and golf,â€? he

added. â€œWeâ€™ve come back from some hard times, and weâ€™re prospering. Membership is good and growing,â€? said past president Rich Papini. â€œThis club, without any doubt, has the most sincere

members and no personal agendas,â€? said board member Buddy Foy. Attendees received $500 worth of play money to purchase gaming chips, and those who came out ahead used their non-cash winnings to

enter the bountiful raffle that featured artwork donated by local artists and prizes donated by local restaurants and businesses. Those who did not fare so well could purchase additional chips to continue their gaming endeavors. Nub and Jan Turner live across the street from the club, and they were among the first to try their luck at the roulette wheel, joined by Kathy Lindsey. â€œSheâ€™s way ahead,â€? Nub said of his wifeâ€™s initial foray into the classic casino game. Across the room, Sunbow Bay resident Peggy Burch stood at the raffle table deciding how to distribute the raffle tickets she purchased. â€œThis is fabulous. I hope it works,â€? she said, in anticipation of taking home one of the great prizes offered. Inside the party tent, Ron Pritchard opened a couple bottles of wine to share with his wife Heather, and their friends Mark and Marty Clark, and Pam Alvore. â€œThe food is excellent and the casino is quite spectacular,â€? Ron Pritchard said, with a charming British accent.

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APRIL 1, 2015

Center to proceed with fitness center The plan has generated controversy in Holmes Beach and Anna Maria. BY PAT COPELAND SUN STAFF WRITER | pcopeland@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA – Island Community Center board members agreed to proceed as soon as possible with the fitness center to be constructed on the Center’s second floor. “We made a list of potential donors and volunteers to see how much will be donated,” reported board member Shawn Kaleta. “I spoke to seven individuals, and four have committed to do something. “We’re breaking the list up to see how much will be donated by local contractors and subcontractors. We have a list of about 60.” ‘We’ve finalized plans from an engineering standpoint. The only question I’ve got is who signs the application and pays for it?” Board member and attorney Scott Rudacille said the board would authorize the director to do so.

Kaleta said they are investigating the equipment, and Executive Director Cindy Thompson said she and Managing Director Kristin Lessig have discussed seeking grants for that. Board members Eric Abrahamson asked if the Center could stay open during construction, and Kaleta said it could. The plan has generated controversy in Holmes Beach and Anna Maria, with owners of the Island’s two fitness centers addressing both city commissions and both mayors writing letters to the Center's board of directors. Board member David Teitelbaum praised Kaleta’s efforts, and he received a round of applause from the board. As of Monday, the Center had not applied for a building permit, according to Anna Maria Building Official Bob Welch.

continued. “We have strong program fee revenue, and other revenues are improving and strengthening. “The next two months are expected to very strong. If we see a big Silver Affaire we’ll see a healthy boost to our cash reserves. Overall it’s a pretty good story.” He said that government funding and grants are at a low level, and noted, “We don’t get much support from the county or the cities. Grants are another area where we have not had the resources or expertise.” He said Lessig is planning to bring in an expert to identify grants that the Center could seek and also to train the staff. Teitelbaum said they could pursue a grant from the Manatee County Tourist Development Council.

Finances

Dawn Mishler, chair of the Silver Affaire, reported that she has $58,600 in sponsorships and ticket sales and $59,500 in kind. She said they must have $109,000 to $110,000 in order to net $150,000 to $175,000 at the event.

Treasurer Jim Froeschle reported that the Center lost $23,000 in February, and it was “higher than expected,” but expenses were below last year. “Things are coming into line,” he

Silver affaire

Mike Coleman pointed out that board member Ed Chiles is donating the food at a cost of $16,000 to $20,000. Mishler reported that there would be online and mobile bidding for the silent auction and added, “Bring your phone because you won’t go to the table any more and write down the number. If you don’t have a phone, I’ll give one to you. “We’ll send it out online two weeks before so people who are not coming can bid on the items. If you are there, you don’t have to leave your table.” She said people would get pinged when their bids are topped. Guests also can swipe their credit cards when they enter to make checkout quicker. There will eight to 10 live auction packages, and there will be an auctioneer. Members agreed that they would like for people to use the paddles for the live auction. Mishler said if they plan to have a cash call, they should have reason for it. Members agreed on scholarships for kids.

center: Residents and commissioners support business owners FROM PAGE 1

What happened to our Community Center? It’s not ours any more.”

can’t tell me that rental companies are not going to receive any profit from this project.” She said there is a conflict of interest that violates IRS 501(c) (3) regulations regarding non-profit organizations. “The charm of our Old Florida island that we all love so much is being destroyed before our eyes,” Crady stressed. “What happened to our Community Center? It’s not ours any more. “I refuse to be bullied out of my business by the deep pockets of the board members of the Community Center. It is not fair. We cannot let this happen to our livelihood, our gyms or our Island.” Their remarks were followed by sustained, loud applause and a standing ovation from the audience.

Comments

“I heard about the city’s contribution to the Community Center,” said Jeff Carson, of Bradenton Beach. “Don’t use government funds to pit a non-profit against your local businesses.” “I understand you don’t have a lot of control over this, but the more noise we can make and the more people who are in positions of authority to say we don’t like this idea

Jen Crady Owner AMI Health & Fitness

See related story on Page 42.

Pat copeland | sun

From left, Jen Crady and Brenda Canning the owners of fitness businesses, speak to city commissioners. (is good),” resident Julie Krokroskia pointed out. “It isn’t fair and it isn’t right. I’d like the Community Center to think about what we do not have that they can make money off of.” Commissioner Jean Peelen asked

how much the city donates to the Center, and Mayor Bob Johnson said $22,500 this year. He said the city of Anna Maria donated $16,000 and the city of Bradenton Beach donated $250. “My feeling that we should not continue to support the Community Center financially if they go through with the fitness plan, and we hope it would change because we would hate to give up our support,” Peelen said.

Write a letter

Chair Judy Titsworth asked the mayor to write a letter to the Center’s board of directors stating the commissioners’ views on the issue. “We need to do it as soon as possible; they’re planning on getting a permit,” Commissioner Marvin Grossman said. Carol Soustek, the commission’s

liaison to the Center’s board of directors, said she sat in on their meeting the previous night and “they are gung ho” on the project. Johnson suggested another approach – to increase the city’s contribution with a condition. He also said they could offer to negotiate. “My concern about that is they did not come to us and ask for help,” Chair Judy Titsworth said. “If we give them more money, what’s to stop them from trying to do something else?” Peelen said Center board member David Teitelbaum came to the commission last summer and asked for more money. “It was when it was runaway funding, and we couldn’t contribute to something that was unstable,” Titsworth replied.

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TOWN CRIER

the salt air. The Privateers will be cooking up hamburgers, hot dogs and buck-an-ear corn on the cob from their grill. Big John will be serving lunch made from his smoker, and the Privateers will sell baked goods from the lady pirates’ kitchens. You can shop for fresh produce, weather permitting. Spots are open for vendors. Log onto amiprivateers.org for information on renting a space. Manatee County does not allow dogs in Coquina Beach or the parking lot.

Writers to dine The Gulf Coast Writers are having their annual luncheon meeting on Wednesday, April 1, at 11:30 a.m. at the Seafood Shack, 4110 127th St. W., Cortez. Members who plan on attending need to inform Sylvia Price at 778-3209 or scprice@verizon.net.

Library wants writers and artists The Manatee County Library System is publishing a new online literary and arts journal called “805” and the editors of this bi-monthly publication are seeking short stories, flash fiction, essays, poems and art. Writers and artists are asked to submit via the Website at www.805lit. org and include full contact information, genre and word count, if applicable. For general information, visit www.805lit.org.

Bottle Boat Regatta returns

Production money

The Off Stage Ladies of the Island Players donated $1,500 to co-produce “The Murder Room” at Island Players May 21 through 31. Susan Turner, who is an Island Players’ board member and Off Stage Lady, joins Island Player’s President Bobbie Berger and Off Stage Ladies President Nancy Ambrose at the check presentation at the theater. JACK ELKA | SUBMITTED

Beach walk for homeless children Turning Points’ Third Annual Walk a Mile in Their Shoes will be held on Saturday, April 4, at Coquina Beach South starting at 4 p.m. The proceeds of this event go directly to fund programs benefitting homeless children and their families. While the label homeless conjures a variety of images of people in crisis, rarely does it include the image of children. Yet the reality is that there are thousands of homeless children in Manatee and Sarasota Counties every year. It is the fastest growing segment of homelessness. One out of every 30 kids in the U.S. experienced homelessness last year. Walk a Mile in Their Shoes is a fun event for kids, families and individuals to get together and help the members in their own community. It is a one-mile family fun awareness walk along with a Sandblast castle competition between area high schools, drawings and raffles, T-shirts for pre-registered walkers, family pictures, face painting, bounce house, great food, Zumba dancing, a live steel drums performer, music by Disney’s # 1 DJ and the post walk party and sunset watch. Check-in begins at 4 p.m. with the walk at 5:30 p.m. and the post party at 6 p.m. Registration is free for kids under 5, $10 for students and kids, $20 for individual adults and $45 for families. You can also sponsor a child to walk for $10 or sponsor 10 children to walk for $100 or sponsor 25 children to walk for $250. Pre-register at www.turningpointswalk.org. Contact Margi Dawson mdawson@tpmanatee.org if you are interested in sponsorship opportunities

No Beach Market Sunday The Beach Market, 2650 Gulf Drive S., Bradenton Beach at the trolley stop,

concession stand area, is normally open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. every Sunday through July, except Easter. The market will return next week. Manatee County does not allow dogs anywhere in Coquina Park. The market is stroller, walker and wheelchair accessible. Contact Nancy Ambrose for more information 941-518-4431.

The Palma Sola Causeway will be busier than normal from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, April 11, as the Hernando De Soto Heritage Festival Bottle Boat Regatta will bring this wet and wild action to the shore along Manatee Avenue for the 36th time. Teams of builder/boaters will compete in different age groups for trophies. There will be food for sale and lots of unique boats to watch, all made with air-filled two-liter bottles to keep them afloat. This event is free to attend, and there will be ample room for parking. The event is sponsored by Freedom Boat Club.

The Off Stage Ladies of the Island Players will meet on April 8 at 11:30 at 4628 119th St. W, Cortez. Island Player’s actors Judy Keenan, Robyn Rhodes, Cathy Hansel-Edgerton and Jalex Scott will be performing. Visitors are welcome. Contact Nancy Ambrose 941-518-4431 for information

Stroll. All proceeds benefit United Way of Manatee County. Participants may walk or run though a 5K or 1-mile course along the beach. Registration, available online, is $25 for adults or $35 for one adult and up to four children. Two adults and up to four children is $50. Those who register before April 24 will receive an event T-shirt. Registration on the day of the event will begin at 8 a.m., and the walk/run will begin at 9 a.m. After the walk, there will be children’s games and activities. Log onto http://www,eventbrite. com/e/manatee-miles-sea-turtlestrolltickets-15501497396 for online registration and additional information or Katie Becker at kbecker@uwmc.net or 941-748-1313.

Hop over to Holmes Beach field

Social bridge at Roser

A two-day outdoor Arts and Crafts Show to benefit the Anna Maria Island Butterfly Park is being held at the Holmes Beach City Hall field, 5801 Marina Drive on Saturday, April 4, from 10 am â 5 pm and on Sunday, April 5, from 10 am to 4 pm. Find jewelry, glass, art, photography, wood products, leather goods, metal art, hair accessories, funky lamps, apparel, food, crafts and more. There is free admission and free parking. Contact Andy at 352-344-0657 or www.tnteventsinc. com

Enjoy social bridge every Monday at noon at the Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave, Anna Maria. For more information, call 941-778-0414 or just come and join the group.

The Manatee Community Concert Band and the Pops Orchestra will combine for “A Salute to Leroy Anderson,” America’s most beloved pops music composer, at the Neel Performing Arts Center, State College of Florida, 5840 26th St. W., Bradenton, to perform Leroy Anderson’s greatest hits on Sunday, April 12, at 3 p.m. Doors open at 2:15 p.m. Songs include “The Typewriter,” “Plink, Plank, Plunk,” “Bugler’s Holiday,” “The Waltzing Cat,” “The Syncopated Clock,” “Blue Tango,” “Trumpeter’s Lullaby,” “The Blue Bells of Scotland” and much more. Premium seating tickets are $25, general admission is $20. Order tickets at http://www.thepopsorchestra.org. For further information, contact Randy Gilmore, randy@manateeconcertband.org. Telephone 260-410-4126.

Play bridge at Annunciation

SHINE Program needs volunteers

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 896-5154.

Beach run for United Way

As season wanes, the vendors head north and the Anna Maria Island Privateers host their last Thieves’ Market on Saturday, April 11, from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Coquina Beach parking lot. Shop for new and used items, some of them antique, as you hear the surf and smell

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. For more information or to volunteer, call the Elder Helpline at 1-813-740-3888, ext. 5593.

Off Stage Ladies meet

Registration is open for the fifth annual Manatee Miles fundraiser for United Way on Saturday, May 9. This year the event moves to Coquina Beach and updates its name to the Manatee Miles Sea Turtle

Privateers host their last market

Salute to Leroy Anderson

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in brief Haunted lecture The Artists’ Guild of Anna Maria Island will present “Haunted Attractions” on Monday, April 6, at the Church of the Annunciation at 45th Street and Second Avenue in Holmes Beach. Larry Wilhelm will present a behind-the-scenes tour of makeup, performances and stage costumes used in his annual Halloween event, Trail to Terror, staged on 30 acres of farmland in Rhode Island. Refreshments start at 6:30 p.m., and the program begins at 7 p.m. The event is free and open to the public. For more information, call 941-778-6694 or visit www.amiartistsguildgallery.com.

New building official in Holmes Beach Mayor Bob Johnson introduced James McGuinness, the city’s new building official/public works director at last week’s city commission meeting, Johnson pointed out that there has been a huge increase in major construction projects, inspections and general permits in the city in the past three years. “All this has been happening in a period of time when we had extreme turbulence in the building department, but we have begun to bend the curve,” he said. “Jim is well qualified with lots of municipal experience on the coast and in Florida and is familiar with the issues facing us. He has good private experience and is very well rounded.”

Adult sports tryouts at Center Tryouts for adult basketball, soccer and kickball at the Island Community Center, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria, are as follows: • Adult basketball: Tuesday, April 7, 7 p.m. • Adult soccer: Thursday, April 9, at 7 p.m. • Adult kickball: Monday, April 13 at 7pm. For information, contact Matt at 941-778-1908, ext. 9205, or matt@myamicc.com

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APRIL 1, 2015

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Spring leaves Sea grape leaves are right on schedule popping out all over Anna Maria Island this spring.

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REAL ESTATE

APRIL 1, 2015

It’s a bird; it’s a plane; it’s a drone

hat’s about four feet wide, has propellers and wings, elevates like a helicopter, glides like a plane and delivers your new smart phone? Well if we were having this conversation even 10 years ago on April 1, you would probably figure it’s an April fool’s joke, but in 2015 it’s no joke. Drones are all over the media these days from Amazon and Google wanting to use them to deliver their packages to photographers wanting to use them to film weddings, outdoor sporting and entertainment events and just plain nosy people. But how this new technology applies to marketing real estate can get into a real fuzzy right of privacy area. Drones and real estate is a match made in heaven, especially when you are marketing high end homes that are on the water. No matter how many quality photos you take, it can never convey the special quality of a waterfront front home. Imagine flying over the roof of your home with

Castles in the Sand Louise Bolger a bird’s eye view of your free form pool, dock, terrace and landscaping being fully appreciated from above. From a buyer's point of view, drone videos can capture ornamental details and physical conditions. Likewise, inspection of structural elements like piers, boat docks and roofs, which are not otherwise available until a structural engineer’s inspection, can rule out a property at the outset. This also can work for sellers who are confident in their property and invite close inspections. However, the real star of your own private star wars show is the water. Gulffront homes can’t possibly be appreciated un-

less you can see their location from above or off shore like a boat approaching the shoreline. Drones will also give canal home buyers the advantage of seeing the width and even the depth of the canal, as well as the location on the waterway, in addition to the convenience and access to open water. Although the Federal Aviation Administration rules allowing commercial drone use are about two years away, there have been recent changes that would allow a more flexible framework for the use of drones. For now the FAA maintains that commercial drone operators must apply for an exemption from existing regulations, which some realtors around the country have received. But that’s not stopping real estate companies from getting ready for when the technology is more widely available and the regulations are finalized. Some are even skirting the regulations and finding a way to use drones right now,

depending on the drone pilots they hire to understand the regulations. Neverthe-less agents are officially cautioned against using the technology until the rule changes are approved. Florida is one of the key states in the country that heavily markets to out of state and international buyers who frequently shop remotely. The more information they can get to these buyers, especially in the luxury market, the more complete picture a buyer can have of the property. Agents say that aerial views give a visual perspective to buyers shopping remotely that ground level photos cannot, frequently just enough perspective to push them over the finish line. So keep an eye out for any little mechanical birds flying around your house. You can bet there will be a lot more of them in the years ahead. Able to leap tall buildings with a single bound – look up in the sky – it’s a bird; it’s a plane, oh no; it's just another drone. Better get your clothes on.

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THE SUN

Japanese gardens a form of living art Japanese gardens are primarily designed to provide a mental escape from the troubles of the world. BY PAT COPELAND SUN STAFF WRITER | pcopeland@amisun.com

HOLMES BEACH – Garden enthusiasts gathered in city hall recently to learn about the fascinating world of Japanese gardens from Parks and Beautification Board member Dennis Groh, an avid gardener for over 40 years, who has visited Japan three times and has read over a dozen books on the subject. Groh said the first Japanese garden was designed and built in 611 and the gardens “are a form of living art that relies on the skill of the designer. There is no one formula that makes up a Japanese garden, but there are some common elements.” These elements include the presence of water, a strong reverence for nature, embracing seasonal aspects and rock placement. All the materials in Japanese gardens are natural. “They work with symmetry and asymmetry,” he said. “You won’t see things

dennis groh | submitted

Yuseien Garden at Sanzen-in located in Ohara, Japan. lined up in a Japanese garden because that’s not the way it is in nature. But while it appears natural, it is the result of meticulous planning and a great deal of time and effort. “You can look at a Japanese garden and appreciate it as a beautiful thing, but if you want to delve into it, there’s huge symbolism and a lot of stories, lessons, psychology and religion.”

View manipulated

Groh said the gardens are primarily designed to provide a mental escape from the troubles of the world, and the observer’s view is manipulated for a purpose with designed focal points and viewing positions. “For example, if they wanted to surprise you with something, they might put uneven stones in a pathway so you have to look down to maintain a good foot

position and balance,” he explained. “And then all of a sudden if they want you to look up, the path will become smooth and you lift your head up.” Other elements in Japanese gardens include using odd numbers, expressing the duality in nature, using the four seasons as an allegory for life, using bridges as symbols and using key plants. Some factors that influence them are geography, climate, and social influences such as peace and war. “What makes them appealing is offering a feeling of serenity, allowing the conscious mind to heal and offering a safe haven,” he pointed out. He said the gardens are built for various purposes such as religious, ceremonial, recreation, amusement and contemplation and he concluded by showing photos of gardens representing these purposes. A freewill offering was collected by Carol Heckman, of Friends of DeSoto National Memorial, to help save the gumbo limbo trees there that have been infected with a fungus that could cause their deaths. One tree in particular is 90 years old, 45 feet tall and with a 73-foot spread. Donations can be sent to the Friends at P.O. Box 14422, Bradenton, FL 34280-4422.

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THE SUN

Be bird friendly Bird nesting season is here, and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) asks beachgoers to watch out for and avoid disturbing beach-nesting shorebirds. The birds build nests out of sand and shells on Anna Maria Island beaches in spring and summer â€“ nests, eggs and chicks are all well camouflaged and can be easily missed. The snowy plover, least tern, black skimmer, American oystercatcher and Wilsonâ€™s plover are several shorebird species nesting on the Island that face conservation challenges and need peopleâ€™s help to survive. â€œPeople can still enjoy the beach while keeping shorebirds and their chicks safe,â€? said Nancy Douglass, who works on shorebird conservation at the FWC. â€œFollowing a few simple steps while at the beach can have a tremendous positive impact on shorebirds. Peopleâ€™s actions can directly affect the success of shorebird nesting and whether future generations will get to see these iconic birds along our coasts.â€?

B est E scape A nyone C an Have

Ways to protect beach-nesting shorebirds are: â€˘ Keep your distance, whether on the beach or paddling watercraft along the shore. If birds become agitated or leave their nests, you are too close. A general rule is to stay at least 300 feet from a nest. Birds calling out loudly and dive-bombing are giving signals for you to back off. â€˘ Never intentionally force birds to fly or run. They use up energy they need for nesting, and eggs and chicks may be left vulnerable to the sunâ€™s heat or predators. Teach children not to chase shorebirds and kindly ask fellow beach-goers to do the same. â€˘ Respect posted areas. Avoid posted nesting sites and use designated walkways when possible. â€˘ Do not take pets to the beach. â€˘ Keep the beach clean and do not feed wildlife. Food scraps attract predators such as raccoons and crows, which can prey on shorebird chicks. Litter on beaches can entangle birds and other wildlife. Wildlife photographers also

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should follow the rules that protect shorebirds: â€˘ Remain beyond the posted area, with no part of you or your camera equipment extending beyond the string or signs. â€˘ Restrict photography to no more than 10 minutes. Too much time photographing near the nest may stress birds. â€˘ Donâ€™t â€œpushâ€? birds around the beach. Stay far enough away so the birds do not change their behavior in response to your presence. They need to feed and rest without disturbance. If you see people disturbing nesting birds, let them know how their actions may hurt the birdsâ€™ survival. If they continue to disturb nesting birds, report their activities to the FWCâ€™s Wildlife Alert Hotline at 888404-FWCC (3922), #FWC or *FWC on a cell phone or by texting Tip@MyFWC.com. You can also report nests that are not posted. For more information, go to www.MyFWC.com/Shorebirds and download the â€œShare the Beach with Beach-Nesting Birdsâ€? brochure.

APRIL 1, 2015

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Cast-n-Cage safe for now A court hearing on Bradenton Beach’s attempt to evict the proprietors of the Cast-n-Cage restaurant from the cityowned space on the Historic Bridge Street Pier is not expected to take place until Monday, April 27, according to Mayor Bill Shearon The city commission wants tenant Roland Pena to vacate the premises for failure to make timely rent payments, and Pena is contending the city does not have the right to evict him. After missing his March 1 payment date, Pena placed his March rent payment in an escrow account. The rent payment due April 1 is also expected to be placed in escrow as this unresolved dispute continues. Pena’s attorney has submitted four motions to dismiss, including one that contends Shearon initiated the eviction action too soon and without the commission’s approval. In November, the commission granted Shearon the authority to initiate the eviction process immediately, should the tenants fail to make any future rent payments on time.

APRIL 1, 2015

Entertaining The Tap Divas performed for the Off Stage Ladies of the Island Players at their March meeting. From left: Joan Stencik, Denise Elswick, Sondra McClintock, Mary Clarke, Laura Morales. Marie Combe is not pictured. submittED

Improvements coming to East Bay Drive The Florida Department of Transportation is designing pedestrian improvements on East Bay Drive/Gulf Drive North (SR 789) from 27th Street to Manatee Avenue (SR 64). The primary purpose of this project is to improve safety and pedestrian access along the corridor. The project includes design to modify existing driveways to upgrade pedestrian curb ramps to meet ADA

guidelines, add new sidewalks, build new Manatee County Area Transit (MCAT) bus/trolley shelters at the intersections with Gulf Drive and 27th Street and add a pedestrian refuge island in front of Publix and Sunbow Bay condominiums. The project also will design upgrades to the signalized pedestrian features at the intersections with East Bay Drive and Manatee Avenue.

A flyer is being mailed to all property owners located adjacent to East Bay Drive/Gulf Drive North from 27th Street to Manatee Avenue. For more information about the project contact Ryan Weeks, Project Manager, Florida Department of Transportation at 863-519-2837or ryan.weeks@dot.state.fl.us

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APRIL 1, 2015

THE SUN

City gets look at new rental ordinance The city commission will work on the ordinance some more at a special meeting/work session on Thursday, April 8, at 6 p.m. BY TOM VAUGHT SUN STAFF WRITER | tvaught@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA – The city commission got a first look at its new city attorney’s work at a meeting last Thursday. The commissioners reportedly liked what they saw, but two real estate professionals didn’t. City attorney Becky Vose, who did the speaking, and her partner and son, Wade, were present at the meeting as the commissioners worked on her version of proposed Ordinance 15-788, which was originally drawn up with input from real estate professionals and residents. The commission worked on it several times when Jim Dye was city attorney and modified it until it drew a warning from real estate professionals, who said it wasn’t what they had originally worked on. Vose said this ordinance will set up a new chapter in the building code, She said the buildings in the ROR (residen-

tial office retail) district of Pine Avenue were excluded since the homes for rent above the businesses have common parking. She said the upper units were planned to be rentals all along and the developers were up front with the plan, so if they try to group them with the other rentals in the city, they could face legal challenges. City Planner Alan Garrett said the developers of Pine Avenue’s commercial district did extensive work on their site plans to satisfy the city. Commissioner Dale Woodland disagreed. Commission Chair Chuck Webb suggested they look up the site plan to see if there was anything addressing how the homes should be rented. Vose said there seems to be some confusion on the city’s part about what a rental unit is, and she passed out a white paper on the subject from a legal firm contracted by the National Association of Realtors. As it was presented, the proposed ordinance would take away an agent’s right to do business in the city if his or her properties generate 10 problems that have to be adjudicated, preferably by a special master. In addition, the company

for which the agent works would be barred from doing business as well. Commissioner Doug Copeland asked Vose where she got the number 10, and she said she pulled it out of the air and it could be changed to any number they want. Copeland said he wanted the number to be smaller or cumulative to the agency; in other words, an agent might be allowed only four violations and the agency 10. Woodland suggested the agent or agency lose their right to do business in the city for 12 months, but he asked Vose what length of time to be barred other cities had on their codes and Vose said there were no examples. The commissioners agreed to hold the first reading of the ordinance on April 9, after Vose makes changes they approved at last week’s meeting. After that, two real estate professionals spoke about the ordinance. Mike Brinson, of Anna Maria Island Accommodations, Inc., said he was strongly opposed to the ordinance as it is written. “We have worked with the city for three years, and we’ve had no problems,” he said. “Sure, there are some big houses, but we sat with Maureen McCormick and Lynn Brennan and work on an

ordinance, but now, that’s out the door.” Jason Sato, of Sato Real Estate, Inc., recalled when they worked with the city to fashion an ordinance. “We were about 95 percent there, and then for some reason, the commission decided to take the issue over themselves,” Sato said. “We were so close to holding hands and skipping down Pine Ave. “We just spent an hour and a half listening to what you think is going on with us, and we could have told you,” he added. “We were so close with that ordinance. We are not agreeable to this ordinance.” Commissioner Nancy Yetter asked Sato what his biggest complaint is. “The big one is occupancy limits; they should be on future units and eight is not a realistic limit,” Sato said. “Penalties are pretty fair because I don’t expect to have problems. “I wish we could go back to where we were,” he added. “I think we’re worrying about things we shouldn’t have to worry about.” Sato ended by telling the commissioners, “All our visions may be a little different, but we all love the Island and we all want to live here.”

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THE SUN

BEACH BEAT Anna Maria

3/24, 9:12 p.m., information, 800 block of North Shore Drive. The reporting party said when she and her husband were going to dinner, she believes somebody was following them. She said the other party turned into the same parking lot as they did, but after they ate and returned to their car, the other party was gone. She said she believes her husband is having an affair and this incident might have something to do with that. 3/23, 8:08 p.m., found item, 100 block of Magnolia Avenue. A man found a wallet on the beach and turned it into the authorities. 3/23, 6:10 p.m., found item, 102 S. Bay Blvd, Bayfront Plaza. A shopper found a wallet and turned it into the authorities. 3/26, 8:03 a.m., lost property, 800 block of South Bay Boulevard. The complainant said his Waste Management trash can disappeared. 3/26, 8:21 a.m., found property, 300 block of Hardin Avenue. The caller said her son bought a used pickup and found a loaded 40 cal. clip with 11 bullets

inside the truck. He turned it in to authorities. 3/29, 8:50 p.m., lost property, 875 North Shore Drive, Rod & Reel Pier restaurant. The complainant said she ate in the restaurant and remembers putting her wallet into her purse. When she got home, she said it was missing. 3/29, 2:01 p.m., lost property, 700 block of North Shore Drive. Waste Management trash bin was missing.

Bradenton Beach

3/21, 2:31 a.m., trespass warning, 119 Bridge Street, The Hive. The officer trespassed a homeless person who was sleeping in a box next to the store. 3/21. 6 p.m., trespass warning, 110 Gulf Drive S., Island Time. The officer was called to trespass a man who was bothering customers.

Cortez

3/27, 1:02 p.m., trespass warning, Seafood Shack, 4110 127th Sr. W., The manager asked to trespass a belligerent guest who had been drinking. 3/28, 3:16 p.m., petit theft, 12300 block of Cortez Road West. Two bicycles stolen. 3/28, 11:50 p.m., battery, 10100 block of Cortez Road West. The deputy pulled up to the scene and observed a woman beating and kicking a man on the ground. They got her off and a witness

said the defendant had been bothering people at the motel and he was trying to get her to calm down. She was arrested.

Holmes Beach

3/16, 8:48 a.m., driving with a suspended license, 5400 block of Marina Drive. The office ran a computer check on the vehicle and found the owner’s license was suspended with an order to seize the tag. The officer stopped the driver, who said she did not know her license was suspended. The officer ticketed her. 3/16, 12:35 p.m., theft/larceny, 4400 block of Gulf Drive. Stolen bike. It was recovered two days later at the 7000 block of Gulf Drive. 3/17, 5:48 p.m., driving with no registration., 500 block of Manatee Avenue. The officer ran a check of the vehicle and found the license plate was not registered to the vehicle. The driver gave him an expired registration. He was issued a criminal summons. 3/18, 1 a.m., alcohol violation, 8400 block of Gulf Drive. The stopped the suspect for a broken taillight. The driver’s eyes were bloodshot. The officer asked the driver how old he was, and he answered 20. The officer then asked if he had been drinking, and he said one beer. The driver submitted to a breath-

Fitness center backers pack meeting Anna Maria Mayor Dan Murphy sent a letter to the Anna Maria Island Community Center board requesting a meeting to seek further information regarding the proposal. BY TOM VAUGHT SUN STAFF WRITER | tvaught@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA – City hall was packed Thursday night as backers of the two Island health spas expressed displeasure at the AMI Community Center Board’s plans to build a fitness center of their own that would be used by renters and vacationers in competition with the spas. “This is not an attack on the Community Center, but a plea for support of our businesses,” said Jen Crady, owner of AMI Health & Fitness. “The Community Center doesn’t pay property tax or sales tax or tax

on their revenue. They are a threat to our ability to survive.” Brenda Canning, owner of Island Fitness, said she wants an investigation of the Center Board members. “In the past, we never would have allowed a McDonalds next to Duffy’s,” she said. “Now, I don’t know.” The crowd cheered. Resident David McCormick said in the past, the city was characterized as anti-business, but residents are supporting the two spa owners against competition from the Center. “If the Center goes ahead with this plan, they will have to operate more like a business and that would threaten their 501 (c) (3) (non-profit) status,” said investment counselor Tom Kubik. “They pay $1 per year for rent where other businesses pay thousands per month. The businesses don’t receive any tax funding. If they (the Center board) want to proceed and go into business, then they ought

APRIL 1, 2015

to be treated like businesses.” Lizzie Vann, who developed the Historic Green Village on Pine Avenue, said she was skeptical that the big money is for the community as much as it is for expanding businesses. Mark LaBriola, owner of Harry’s Grill, said if McDonalds opened a restaurant next to him, it would hurt his business. Mayor Dan Murphy passed out a letter he sent to the Center board asking for a meeting with Center representatives, the city attorney, the city clerk and the city commission liaison to the Center to discuss information he has requested regarding the proposal. After the spa supporters spoke, there was a time-out as the meeting room emptied and the citizens who regularly attend the meetings stayed along with those who were interested in other items on the agenda.

alyzer test, and it was enough for the officer to arrest him. His mother was asked to pick up his car. 3/18, 8:30 a.m., petit theft, 4300 block of Second Avenue. Two umbrellas and beach chairs were stolen from the property. 3/19, 8:11 a.m., plate not assigned to the vehicle, 500 block of Key Royale Drive. The officer ran a computer check of the vehicle and found the plate was not assigned to it. The driver was issued a summons. 3/9, 3:35 p.m., driving with a suspended license, 5200 block of Gulf Drive. The officer ran a check of the suspect’s license and found it was suspended for delinquent child support payments. The suspect was ticketed. 3/19, 4:35 p.m., driving with a suspended license, no valid registration, 600 block of Manatee Avenue. The officer stopped the suspect for not wearing a seat belt, and her license number was not assigned to her vehicle. After stopping her, he ran her license, and it show it was revoked, She was ticketed, and her plate was seized. 3/20, 1:58 p.m., alcohol violation, 100 block of 52nd Street. Three teens were held after being seen consuming alcohol on the beach. One was underage and was issued a notice to appear. Officers poured out their alcohol.

Rotarians set to swing for charity The Rotary Club of Anna Maria Island will host its inaugural Charity Golf Classic golf tournament on Wednesday, April 8. The tournament will take place at the IMG course in Bradenton. The entry fee for the four-person scramble format tournament is $100 per person. The money raised will help fund service projects the Rotarians engage in at both the local and international levels. April 1 is the deadline for tournament registration, and more information is available at www.annamariarotary.org.

Register for tennis leagues Registration is now open for adult and junior league tennis at the Anna Maria Island Community Center tennis courts, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria. The adult league includes women, men and mixed doubles on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays from 5:30 to 9 p.m. Registration fees for the adult league are $40/ members and $60/non-members. The junior league is divided into two age groups – 6 to 10 at 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. and 11 and up at 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. Play is on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Registration fees for the junior league are $160/members and $200/non-members. The spring schedule runs from April 7 through May 28. Registration deadline for both leagues is April 1. There will be no exceptions.

APRIL 1, 2015

FUN IN THE SUN

Across 1 Software versions that probably have bugs 6 Deer sir? 10 Long-running TV forensic series 13 Reason for some food recalls 14 Tractor brand 15 Gavel sound 16 King of ragtime 18 California's Santa __ Mountains 19 2,000 pounds 20 Lee in the frozen foods section 21 Gives off 23 Presley film set in Sin City 26 Noisy insect 29 Seuss' "Horton __ a Who!" 30 In any way 31 Artist Francisco

Answers to 03-25-15 Crossword Puzzle.

33 Right-angled pipes 36 Penalty flag thrower 37 Sincere 40 Promise to repay, for short 41 The "E" in FEMA: Abbr. 43 Fez and fedora 44 Speaks scratchily 46 "Sour grapes" storyteller 48 Multi-room accommodations 49 One chasing outlaws for money 53 Domed home 54 Zip, as a Ziploc 55 Static jolt 58 Bikini top 59 Counter wipers, or what the starts of 16-, 23- and 49-Across are 63 Lanai wreath 64 Preface, briefly 65 Yeas and nays

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66 Mass. clock setting 67 Mix, as a salad 68 Make into a statute Down 1 Unsurpassed, or surpass 2 Danish shoe company 3 Animated character 4 Mountain hgt. 5 Isn't used, as machinery 6 Leaf under a petal 7 Phone book no. 8 Tycoon Onassis 9 Swiss convention city 10 Site for online bargain hunters 11 Legendary sleigh rider 12 "Not interested" 14 Animated kid explorer 17 Morning cup 22 For a __ pittance 23 Actor Kilmer 24 "Now I remember" 25 Caspian and Black 26 Handle with __ 27 Gossip column couple 28 17-Down with hot milk 31 Boardroom diagram 32 Toronto's prov. 34 More than trot 35 Figure (out), slangily 38 Shout between ships 39 Soul mate 42 Nevada city 45 Word before base or ball 47 "Cut that out!" 48 Fantasy baseball datum

49 Holy Scriptures 50 Fairy tale baddies 51 Password creators 52 Fictional sleuth Wolfe 55 Second of four rhyming

Greek letters 56 Actor Baldwin 57 Hissed "Hey!" 60 "Is that __?": "Are you declining?"

61 Pair in a qt. 62 Took first place

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classified

ANNOUNCEMENTS BEACH YOGA ON Saturdays & Sundays at 8:30am at the end of Pine Ave by the Sandbar Restaurant by donation. www. thriveyogafit.com VOLUNTEERS NEEDED at AMICC. Help your community by giving of yourself. Various positions available. Call Sandee 941-778-1908 ext 0 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 STRUGGLING WITH DRUGS or Alcohol? Addicted to Pills? Talk to someone who cares. Call The Addiction Hope & Help Line for a free assessment. 855-972-6607

APPLIANCE WANTED WANTED GOOD CLEAN Glass Top electric stove. Please Call 941-778-1626

AUCTIONS ESTATE AUCTION: 818+/Acre Bath Alum Estate located in Bath County, VA. 8 Residences, 3 Hangars, 3525’ x 50’ Paved Air Strip, 5 Acre Pond, Adjoins George Washington National Forest, Cave, Enclosed 16’x 40’ heated pool, 32 Parcels Available. Auction held at The Homestead Resort on April 17 at 3 PM. 5% Buyer's Premium. For more information, visit woltz.com or call David Boush. Woltz & Associates, Inc. (VA# 321) Real Estate Brokers & Auctioneers 800-551-3588

BABY SITTER BABY SITTER. Honor student with own transportation. Experienced, References available. Call or text Amanda at 941-713-3219

Call us today! 941-778-3986

RED CROSS CERTIFIED baby sitter. Honor student. Call or text Isabel 941-5457995

BOATS: PARTS & SERVICES & SALES BOATS ARE SELLING Very Well. Season is full swing-Busy-BusyBusy. 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 GREAT BOAT SLIP FOR RENT. Water, electric, finger piers, Key Royale canal head. No bridges. $250/ mo. Call 410-782-9100 26' BAYLINER weekender/ fisherman. Merc V8 $8900. 22’ Redkin walk around cuddy cabin $6500 See on Island Call 941-356-1456

CARE GIVER EXPERIENCED CARE GIVER for elderly person. Hourly, weekly or monthly. Impeccable credentials and local references available. Please contact Ann Northrup at 941-749-1446.

CARPET CLEANING QUALITY COUNTS. CARPET cleaning. Upholstery cleaning. Tile & grout cleaning. Island's favorite cleaner. Manatee Chamber Member. Great price/free estimates. Call 941-7561082

CLEANING SERVICE 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

AAA PRESSURE WASHING windows, pool lanais, driveways. Residential & Commercial inside cleaning. Lowest, best deal on Island! Call Craig for Free estimate 941-896-4321

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

EMPLOYMENT PART-TIME POSITION AVAILABLE at Gift Shop on Anna Maria Island. Retirees welcome. Inquire at 813-409-7540 HELP WANTED STYLIST, NAIL TECHNICIAN. Current License required. Flexible hours. Small shop on Island. Call Owner 941538-0225 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

APRIL 1, 2015

CITY OF ANNA MARIA CODE ENFORCEMENT MANAGER FT Code Enforcement Manager performing duties related to interpreting adopted codes, related rules and regulations to reach compliance. Supervisory experience preferred. May require working nights, holidays, and weekends. Must possess valid FL driver’s license and Minimum FACE Level 1 Certification. Salaried Position. Salary Range: $40,000$59,000. Full job description and application are on the City website: www. cityofannamaria.com. Send application, cover letter and resume to: amclerk@cityofannamaria.com or send to: City Clerk, City of Anna Maria, P.O. Box 779, Anna Maria, FL 34216. Deadline: April 27, 2015, 4pm.

DISH TV PACKAGES for $19.99/mo & $14.95/mo for Internet + $25 Visa Gift Card (with activation). Call Now and Save: 844-5602654. Conditions apply.

PART-TIME CHURCH SECRETARY POSITION for a service-oriented individual proficient in QuickBooks and Microsoft Office products, including Publisher. Requirements include professionalism, adaptability to varied work assignments and the ability to maintain confidentiality. Send current resume to gdlami@verizon.net or to Gloria Dei Lutheran Church 6608 Marina Dr. Holmes Beach, FL 34217

HUGH SALE NIKI’S GIFT & ANTIQUE SHOP. 5351 Gulf Dr, Holmes Beach. All Sterling & Gold jewelry 10% to 60% off. Select Gifts, collectibles, miniatures, dolls, beach art, furniture 30% to 80% off. Parking Lot Flea Market Saturday 9am-5pm. Open 7 days a week 9:30-5.

OWN YOUR OWN TRUCK! Best Lease Purchase Deal in the Country! You can earn over $150,000 per year No Credit Check Latemodel Freightliner Columbia Low Truck Payment Call 866-306-3027 to talk to a recruiter Apply Now Online @ www.joincrst.com AVIATION GRADS WORK with JetBlue, Boeing, Delta and others- start here with hands on training for FAA certification. Financial aid if qualified. Call Aviation Institute of Maintenance 866-314-5838 WELDING CAREERS Hands on training for career opportunities in aviation, automotive, manufacturing and more. Financial aid for qualified students. Job placement assistance. Call AIM 877-206-4006

FOR SALE PRESSURE WASHING AND WINDOWS residential, commercial & resorts. Roofs, buildings, houses, driveways etc. Call 941-251-5948

DISH TV STARTING at $19.99/mo (for 12 mos.) Save! Regular Price $34.99 Call Today and Ask About Free Same Day Installation! Call Now! 855-588-1161

FURNITURE CUSTOM COASTAL FURNITURE & CABINETS by Frankie Z. ebay store. Call 941-726-1482. 10015 Cortez Rd (corner of 101st) frankiezaff@yahoo.com 10/22 NEW/CHANGE until called Zaff

GARAGE, MOVING, RUMMAGE & YARD SALES DONATIONS NEEDED for Relay for Life garage sale. Need by April 8. Call 248-982-5600

ROSER THRIFT SHOP Open 9:30am - 2 pm Tuesday, Thursday, Friday. 10 am -1 pm Saturday Annex open same days. Donations accepted Wednesday 9 am. – 11am 511 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Call 941-779-2733 DEEP DECLUTTERING SALE!! Friday & Saturday April 3 & 4. 8am-4pm. Small appliances, dishes, cookware, power tools, Clothing, bedding. 524 Spring Avenue, Anna Maria

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 RENOVATION SPECALIST ALL carpentry repairs, Wash Family Construction, locally owned and operated CBC 1258250 Call 941-725-0073. KERN CONSTRUCTION NEW Homes & Remodel. Design/Build. Since 1968. State License # CRC1327296. Call Jerry Kern 941-504-2222 www. kernconstructioninc.com

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. “HONEY DO" HOME Repairs & Handyman Services. 35 yrs experience. Painting, drywall, tile, woodwork. All tasks. Call 941-896-5256 or 941-807-5256 www.honey dohomerepairinc.com BESPOKE SERVICES For all home repairs, maintenance work. Professional Trade's Man. Island man for Island work. Good rates, Free costing's & advice. Call Richard 941-448-3571

HOME SERVICES HANDYMAN FOR HIRE. Worked all trades, no job to small. Satisfaction guaranteed. Free estimates. Call Arthur 941-518-8658 HEADED BACK HOME? I'll keep an eye on your seasonal home until you return. Weekly Security inspections. Email or text reports after each visit. Scott Ricci 941-685-8999 amihomecheck@aol.com 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

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LOCKSMITH ISLAND LOCKSMITH, “Lock Around the Clock”. Licensed/bonded/insured. Call 941-778-1661 or 941713-4414

LOST & FOUND SAILBOAT CAPSIZED ON SATURDAY March 7, near 845 North Shore Drive, Anna Maria Island. Lost: sail, dry bags, orange box, clothing and other misc. gear. Call Fred at 727-6671816 PLESE RETURN THE URN taken on February 17 near the mailbox of 503 69th St, Holmes Beach. We did not realize that items placed on street were fair game on Garbage day. We were moving in on that day. Please call Jim 443-4213381 LOST: GLASSES (PRESCRIPTION). Lost on running route: 64th St. to beach, to White Ave, 83rd St., Marina Dr. Please call 248-7655207 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 MASSAGE ON THE BEACH in a tiki hut. Also indoors on historic Bridge Street and outcalls. 941-779-6836 www.sea-renityspa.com #MA55034

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!

Call us today! 941-778-3986

PAINTING & WALLCOVERING

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

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

AMI VALET LLC Professional parking services. Restaurants, weddings, any & all special events. Insured & Licensed. Years of experience. Call 941-565-0137 AMIValet@gmail.com

“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

PET SITTING/ HOUSE SITTING 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.

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

REAL ESTATE HOMES & CONDOS FOR SALE 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 @ 941778-0455 FREE! What every REAL ESTATE BUYER or SELLER needs to know! Go to www.yourmar ketupdate.com for the latest market data.

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AFFORDABLE ISLAND GETA-WAY. 1BR/1BA. Updated $57,500. Steps to beach. Real Estate Mart 941-7139835 or 941-756-1090 FOR SALE by OWNER 1BR/1BA in historic Sandpiper co-op resort with bay view, boat docks, beach completely new inside and out. Call 941-224-1652 for more details ACTIVE 55+ COMMUNITY with heated pool and boat docks. Beaches are 5 min. away. Beautifully Remodeled 2BR/2BA, villa with open floor plan. Turnkey Furnished. New Designer kitchen includes Stainless appliances, granite tops and a large island cooktop. New bathrooms and walk in closets with additional storage. Enjoy the convenience of your own washer & dryer within the unit. $169,900. OBO, Call 303-884-9479 PANARAMIC INTRACOASTAL VIEW. Great rental history. 4BR/5BA heated pool, boat dock. Nicely Furnished $1,300,000 Realtor 941-356-1456 or 941-7139835 LOWEST PRICED WATERFRONT home on AMI. 2BR/2BA Sea Side Gardens Villa. Must see view! 33 Sea Side Court. captuse@gmail. com or call 970-846-7394 WATERFRONT 2BR/2BA plus den, private dock, Colony Cove Ellenton, Florida $49,000 Call 815-345-6510

POOL SERVICES

BRING YOUR BOAT! Canal villa with no bridges to ICW. Renovated 2BR/2BA villa w/carport, in gated community. 23 foot dock. Open plan, Update kitchen & baths. $249,900 Katharine Pepper, RoseBay International 941-755-2100 or 941-792-9459

DON'T RENT next WINTER! Buy this 2BR/1BA unit in beautiful Waterfront Cortez Park (just across Cortez Bridge). Call for personal tour. May consider qualified Annual Renter. Call 740398-9846 or 740-5075606

FOUR SEASONS POOL SERVICE. AMI & West Bradenton. Certified Pool Operator. Residential/commercial. Chemical Service Licensed & Insured. Call Dennis Clark 941-737-5657

HARBOUR ISLE HOME$40,000. in upgrades! Beautiful! $569,000. Perico Bay Club VillaVery well maintained! $229,000. Call Kathleen today! 941-773-0165 Island Real Estate

VILLAGE GREEN 4BR/3BA furnished single family house. Set up with in-law quarters. 5 miles to beach. $190,000 Real Estate Mart 941-356-1456

COLE'S TROPICAL POOL SERVICE Call Cole Bowers for all your pool maintenance needs! Affordable and Dependable!! 941-7131893

BEST PRICED CONDO on Island. 3BR/3BA 2 car garage. Only $285,000! Offers weekly rentals. Karen Day Fineout, Wagner Realty 941-518-3682

PHOTOGRAPHY NEW AERIAL AMI PHOTOS. PhotosFromTheAir.com. email: photosfromtheair@ gmail.com or Call 941-7739834

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

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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 LAKEFRONT WEST BRADENTON. No deed restrictions. No flood zone. 7 miles to beach $37,500 or will build to suit. Call 941356-1456

RENTALS: ANNUAL 2BR/2BA home, 55 + community, 1,600 s/f water & trash incl. w/d, community pool & shuffle board, Golf privileges available. Big yard, canal view, tile & carpet, Newly renovated throughout . 1 car garage, close to shopping & restaurants. Available immediately East Bradenton $1,600/ mo. 1st, last & security. 2BR/2BA home 1650 s/f lawn care incl. w/d , tile & wood , 1 carport, 1st, last $1,350/mo, $1000 sec dep. Available immediately. NO PETS AT THIS PROPERTY Near St. Stevens. Pinebrook Condo 2BR/2BA 1500 s/f golf course frontage beautiful condo w/ den, Wood floors, splendid granite kitchen, vaulted ceilings great views, carport. $1,500/mo, first, last & security. 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 RENTALS: 3BR Townhouse in Palma Sola Trace. 1 car garage, heated community pool. Brand new! $1700/mo. First, Last, Security. 1BR/1BA + Den duplex on North End of ANNA MARIA $1100/ mo. Contact kate@islandreal.com or 941-345-1295. Island Real Estate. ANNUAL HOLMES BEACH 1BR/1BA. Newly renovated $1350/mo includes water, condo fees, Dish TV, W/D & trash. No smoking. First, Last & Security. Call 860922-3857 ANNUAL RENTAL 2BR/1.5BA DUPLEX. 3 blocks from beach. Anna Maria Island, Holmes Beach Includes lanai, utility room, attached carport, storage shed. $1300/mo. Call 941779-2265 BRADENTON BEACH, ANNUAL RENTAL, 1BR/1BA, granite, stainless, intercoastal in back, beach in front, pool, great location, no pets, no smoking, $1,100/mo. Call 603-9696840 ANNUAL 1BR/1BA RIVER District, West Bradenton. Charming mother-in-law apartment, part furnished, screened porch, bonus room. Single person, non smoker, no pets.$950/mo.utilites included. First/last & security, credit and background check. Call 941-447-6351. Leave message COZY SINGLE FAMILY HOME (unfurnished) near SCF College. 8 miles to beach. 2BR/1BA updated $900/mo First, Last & Security. Realtor 941-356-1456

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

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RENTALS: SEASONAL & VACATION

REAL ESTATE: OUT OF AREA

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!

NORTH CAROLINA MOUNTAIN Land for sale: a rare find - gently sloping mountain land, 3 1/2 plus acres with building lot, electric, water and septic installed. Storage bldg, apple trees facing south. Near Cashiers and Lake Glenville. $75,000. Call 941-778-5966.

AMI-WHY RENT SEASONALLY when you can rent your Beach Get-A-Way ANNUALLLY for a comparable amount? Call 860-9223857 for info. PERICO BAY CLUB 2BR/2BA 2nd floor Condo with Panoramic view on Neal Preserve. One pet allowed. Rent for 5 months 6th month FREE. Call 248785-7214

ROOFING METAL ROOFING SPECIALIST. Call Now for a Free Estimate! Fully Licensed, Bonded & Insured. CCC 04287 866-998-3324

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

Call us today! 941-778-3986 APRIL 1, 2015

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