Anna Maria Island Sun August 23,2017

- Named Best Florida Newspaper In Its Class -

VOL 17 No. 45

A solar eyefull

People across the country took time out of their day Monday to view the first total eclipse of the sun in the U.S. since 1979

August 23, 2017

Confederate memorial prompts protests and debate

BY TOM VAUGHT

The national debate over Confederate memorials has made its way to Manatee County.

SUN STAFF WRITER | tvaught@amisun.com

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

BRADENTON BEACH – The outside portion of the Bridge Tender Inn is a nice place to observe the boats moored in the bay. But Monday afternoon, people were turning their attention upward to watch a rare event – a solar eclipse, which was partial here in Florida but total within a 70-mile-wide band that stretched from Oregon to South Carolina.

At the Bridge Tender, people had gathered to take advantage of an eclipse party being offered by the popular Bridge Street eatery. The restaurant and pub was offering patrons the use of approved solar-watching glasses. The paper glasses contained super-dark lenses, which made it safe to look directly at the partially blocked out sun.

One person sporting the heavenly shades and sitting at the overflowing tiki bar was Dave Spiggle, of Ellenton, who took the day off work to view the event “I live near the Outlet Mall,” he said.

“It’s always so busy there, I just wanted to get away and watch the eclipse in a see eclipse, page 33

patrick hayden | submitted

TOM VAUGHT | SUN

From left to right: Gordon Shook and his grandchildren, Colton and Juliana, look at the sun from Manatee County Public Beach through special goggles as the moon passes in front of it.

Moving forward in the digital world Launched into cyberspace during the solar eclipse on Monday, the Anna Maria Island Sun’s redesigned website, www.amisun.com, is waiting for you to explore.

More and more, visitors to the Island and locals alike are using their phones to find information, and our improved website will offer lots for mobile readers to like, including community news, entertainment, business, outdoors, sports and opinion, plus live radar and traffic on mobile as well as tablet and desktop. You can search the past decade

INSIDE NEWS OPINION Sun survey Sean Murphy outdoors cops & obits real estate classifieds

4 6 7 19 22-23 25 28-33 37-39

of The Sun, take the Sun Survey, watch local video, place classified ads online and more.

But the newspaper industry is not through with print, and neither are we. Those of us who cherish the memory of typing

John Chappie

will run for mayor in Bradenton Beach. 3

Anna Maria Island, Florida

without either electricity or the Internet can still find the print version of The Sun at your favorite local business, your driveway or your mailbox and read it over a cup of coffee, a cupcake or a pizza.

And you can read an online duplicate of the print version at www.issuu.com/AnnaMariaIslandSun and take your time deciding whether to make the transition from print to digital.

BRADENTON – On Friday, Manatee County Commissioners voted against removing a Confederate memorial and in favor of covering it with plywood to protect it during Monday’s Unity March and counter protests.

On Saturday, the memorial was encased in plywood.

The Confederate memorial stands in front of the Manatee County Historic Courthouse and near the Manatee County Judicial Center in downtown Bradenton. The two buildings share a public courtyard.

The memorial features inscriptions on all four sides.

We do not The west side want another says, “Erected by the Judah P. Charlottesville.”

Benjamin Chapter United Daughters of the ConfederPriscilla Whisenant Trace acy June 3, 1924” County Commissioner with the name “Stonewall Jackson” below; Jackson was a Confederate general in the Civil War. The east side says, “Calm and Noble in Peace.

Courageous and Chilvalrous (sic) in War. True to the Best Traditions of the South. The Confederate Soldier Lives Enshrined in the Hearts of His Grateful Countrymen.” with the name “Robert E. Lee” below; Lee was a Confederate general in the Civil War. The north side features a Confederate flag and says, “In Memory of Our Confederate Soldiers.”

The south side says, “1861-1865 Lest We Forget” with the name “Jefferson Davis” below; Davis was the president of the Confederacy during the Civil War.

Damage control

Black Lives Matter Alliance Sarasota Manatee Chapter, Indivisible Bradenton Pro-gressive, Answer Suncoast and Action Together Suncoast organized Monday’s march that was to begin at

see sun, page 31

see memorial, page 32

Proposed AMENDMENTS WON’T BE ON NOVEMBER BALLOT.

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EATING the day away in Cortez. In

Food & Wine. 21 The Island’s award-winning weekly newspaper

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AUGUST 23, 2017

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AUGUST 23, 2017

THE SUN

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Chappie seeks mayor’s seat John Chappie served multiple terms as mayor before he became a Manatee county commissioner.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

BRADENTON BEACH – Vice Mayor John Chappie filed his resign to run paperwork last week and intends to run for the mayor’s seat currently held by Bill Shearon. On Monday, Shearon declared he will seek reelection.

Filing the resign to run paperwork means Chappie will vacate his Ward 4 City Commission seat after the Nov. 7 elections regardless of whether he wins or loses. The vacancy will not take effect until after the elections, and there will not be an open race to fill the vacated seat. The commission will appoint someone to fill the Ward 4 seat during its second meeting in November, and that appointee will fulfill the remaining 11 months of Chappie’s two-year Ward 4 term.

Chappie returned to the city commission last November after spending eight years as a county commissioner. Prior

Joe Hendricks | Sun

Vice Mayor John Chappie now has his eyes on the mayor’s seat. to that, he served multiple terms as the Bradenton Beach mayor and as a city commissioner. He has lived in Bradenton Beach for more than 43 years.

Decision 2017

On Sunday, Chappie discussed his decision.

“The bottom line is it’s always about

wanting good government, better government, and I know I can bring that to the table. The city, over the last four years, has been through some turmoil.

We need to come together, and that’s a challenge. As mayor, I would be in a better position to help bring that along.

I think I have a pretty good reputation with being open and honest about

things. I’ve learned from my mistakes, and I’m not afraid to admit to my mistakes,” Chappie said.

“We need elected officials that will listen to the people and respect them.

I think it’s important to have those meetings where the elected officials get together and discuss the issues and hear from the people. I think we need to do more of that and be willing to actually listen to what the people are saying.

Government is about compromise a lot of the time. There’s not always one way, and having these discussions opens our minds to other opportunities for our community,” Chappie said.

“We’ve had some tremendous challenges and we’re going to continue having challenges fighting Tallahassee with regards to our home rule rights that are always being challenged. I’ve only been in office this go-around for nine months, but we’ve made some significant changes and progress as a commission.

I think I bring to the table an understanding of what the community and the commission is facing: where we are today and where we want to be five, 10, 15 years down the road. We have a beautiful see chappie, page 8

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ISLAND NEWS

in brief

Cortez citizens to discuss bridge Cortez Village citizens will meet on Saturday, Aug. 26, from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. at Fisherman’s Hall, 11100 123rd St. W., to discuss the final public hearing on the fate of the Cortez Bridge. Many residents are opposed to a high fixed-span bridge to replace the low-level drawbridge because it would be out of character for the historic fishing village and some businesses would be adversely affected by the extended length of the bridge needed to reach the height of 65-feet clearance.

Visit our website, www.amisun.com.

Scan this code with your smartphone to go there.

AUGUST 23, 2017

Aqua by the Bay review continues

The Manatee County Commission review of the Aqua by the Bay plans resumes Wednesday.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

Woodland seeks reelection At the close of business Friday, incumbent, multiterm Anna Maria City Commissioner Dale Woodland was the only candidate to qualify to run for one of three commission seats that will be determined in the city elections this fall. Incumbent commissioner Carol Carter said she plans to qualify this Woodland week.

“We need to continue to protect the security of our residents, safeguard our environment and promote a sense of community,” Carter said.

Commission Chair Doug Copeland has not yet declared whether he will seek reelection. The qualifying period Carter for Anna Maria candidates closes at noon on Friday, Aug. 25.

Charter panel members sought The city of Bradenton Beach is accepting applications for Charter Review Committee members. The City Commission will appoint five city residents to conduct a comprehensive review of the city charter and propose charter amendments to be placed on a future ballot for city voters. Those interested can pick up a board/committee member application from the city clerk’s office. The application form can also be downloaded from the homepage at www.cityofbradentonbeach.com. For more information, contact the clerk’s office at 941-778-1005.

Franchise ordinance on agenda The agenda for the Thursday, April 24, Anna Maria City Commission meeting lists the following items: general public comment; grand tree removal at 62 North Shore Dr.; the second reading of the formula retail (franchise) ordinance; the second reading up the updated comprehensive plan; the first reading of a camping prohibition ordinance; community center public records; a city pier park update; and the mayor’s report. The meeting will begin at 6 p.m.

BRADENTON – Some county residents feel the Aqua by the Bay developers’ ever-changing plans are creating an elusive and moving target for county commissioners to rule on.

The Manatee County Commission will continue its review of the Aqua by the Bay general development plan and rezoning requests on Wednesday Aug. 23. The meeting will begin at 9 a.m., and another large turnout is expected.

During the Wednesday, August 16 meeting that lasted more than eight hours, developer Carlos Beruff’s attorney, Ed Vogler, said his client was willing to remove from the plans, for now, four proposed 145foot tall condominium buildings.

Vogler said the developers and the commission could address those buildings as a separate request at a later date.

Vogler also said Beruff and his team would commit to a nonvariable 50 foot wetlands buffer, instead of the variable wetlands buffer they presented at the Manatee County Planning Commission on Aug. 10.

The developers have still not presented the commission and the pubic with a diagram that indicates how many buildings over the allowed 35-foot height limit they are proposing, or where those buildings would be located.

County Commissioner Robin DiSabatino asked the developers to provide more specific information about traffic impacts, the proposed estuary enhancement retaining wall; the type of businesses that would be included in the proposed 78,000 feet of commercial space and whether the proposed 2,894 residential units would be owned and/or occupied by single families, seasonal residents, renters or vaca-

joe hendricks | SUN

Native American Bobby Billie expresses concerns about ancient burial sites located on the Aqua by the Bay property. tion rental guests.

During public comment, Florida Institute for Saltwater Heritage board member and former county commissioner Jane von Hahmann said, “Wow, this is such a moving target. This is incomplete. It’s really hard to know and understand because basically we walked into a new design today, which is very frustrating to me.

She also cited the land development code and said the developers have still not met its requirements.

“They’ve provided you with architectural drawings, but they haven’t provided you with relationships for all of the buildings on the property.

And now that they’ve removed the 145s, I’m not sure how many additional buildings will be needed.”

Sierra Club representative Andy Mele also referenced a moving target. He held up a large poster board illustration that represented the skyline view he said would be the view from Sarasota Bay. He also held up a poster board that represented his estimate as to where all of the buildings over 35 feet would be located.

Native concerns

Native American Bobby Billie raised concerns he had not heard addressed yet: Native American burial grounds located on the Aqua by the Bay property.

Representing the Miccosukee Simanolee Nation of Regional people, Billie said development in Florida is disturbing ancient burial grounds.

“There’s two burial sites here,” he said of the Aqua by the Bay property.

He also addressed the need to protect the environment and the animals and birds that occupy it for future generations of humans to enjoy.

“They only protect their own interests,” he said of developers.

Surprise speaker

At one pointing during the meeting, Vogler told the commission he’d subpoenaed someone to testify. This turned out to be former county Environmental Planning Section Manager Joel Christian.

Christian supported the project as a county employee, but resigned in June after he was clocked going 80 mph on Manatee Avenue in Holmes Beach, and then arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence, possession of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia. Speaking as a civilian, Christian reiterated his pervious support for the project.

During the meeting recess that followed, Christin was seen smiling and chatting with Alec Hoffner, Beruff’s contracted environmental expert.

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AUGUST 23, 2017

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FDOT maps Cortez Road improvements Their choice was voted the most popular by those attending a public hearing in May.

BY TOM VAUGHT SUN STAFF WRITER | tvaught@amisun.com

CORTEZ – The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) has chosen its course to help speed traffic to and from Anna Maria Island and Bradenton along Cortez Road West.

The agency wants to help alleviate the frequent traffic snarls and gridlock that occur regularly during tourist season, on weekends and on practically any good beach day.

The tie-ups revolve around a traffic light at 119th Street West that stops traffic every time a vehicle comes to the intersection on 119th Street West from the north. The light also also tripped by pedestrians wanting to cross Cortez Road West. When high volume traffic gets stopped for more than a minute, it can turn into a big mess, especially with a drawbridge between the mainland and the Island.

After the light was installed, county commissioners got complaints, which

submitted

Above, the interim improvements would be operational by the end of the year and, at right, the ultimate plan would require negotiating with the county to use Florida Maritime Museum property to realign 119th Street. were passed on to the state. FDOT’s response is a solution that comes in two parts: interim and ultimate.

Under the interim plan, which is scheduled to be operational by the end of the year, the eastbound signal at 119th will only be activated by pedestrians to allow a free flow of autos off the Island. FDOT will install a stop sign on the south leg of 119th Street West, allowing motorists to turn onto Cortez Road without waiting for a signal. The signal for westbound Cortez Road will remain to accommodate southbound to eastbound 119th Street West traffic.

FDOT Regional Public Relations Direc-

tor Zach Burch said westbound traffic would still be allowed to turn left onto 1119 Street West.

The ultimate solution comes as FDOT pursues approval of the permanent realignment of the intersection through the Florida Maritime Museum property.

In addition, medians will not be constructed west of the intersection to allow emergency vehicles to change lanes when making runs during high traffic.

Public input

During the May meeting at Cortez Road Baptist Church, FDOT officials named four options. The first was to leave

everything as it is at the 119th Street West intersection. The second was to remove the stoplight altogether and prohibit eastbound left turns and lengthen the westbound to southbound turn lane. The third was to eliminate eastbound left turns north on 119th Street and eliminate northbound left turns from 119th Street to westbound Cortez Road, provide a left turn lane for westbound Cortez Road onto southbound 119th Street and make an extended acceleration lane for southbound 119th Street motorists turning onto eastbound Cortez Road. The last option was the most popular, according to FDOT officials and is the one they chose.

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OPINIOn

The Anna Maria Island Sun newspaper Island Sun Plaza, 9801 Gulf Drive P.O. Box 1189 Anna Maria, FL 34216-1189 Phone: (941) 778-3986 e-mail: news@amisun.com | ads@amisun.com | classifieds@amisun.com

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AUGUST 23, 2017

EDITORIAL A new venue emerges

T

hese have been exciting times for those of us here at The Sun newspaper.

We had a once-in-a-lifetime total solar eclipse Monday afternoon though only three-quarters on the Island - that not only mesmerized our staff but also captured the imagination of an entire nation.

Add in the accolades from the Florida Press Association, in which The Sun was named the state's best weekly newspaper in its class, and we have a week that will be remembered for years to come.

But it actually was Sunday night's events that have us fired up about life here at The Sun. After nearly a year of planning, testing, constructing and revising, our new website was launched at midnight, bringing this newspaper into the digital age in dramatic and compelling fashion.

Our web address is the same at www.amisun.com. But visitors to the improved site will find a more robust offering, complete with community news, entertainment, business, outdoors, sports and opinion, plus live radar and traffic on mobile as well as tablet and desktop.

Also available will be The Sun's e-edition, which is an online version of our print product, including all the ads.

Browsing our past issues has never been easier, as the archives are searchable in several different ways. A new and improved version of the popular Sun Survey also is there, as is an ever-expanding library of videos and the capacity to place your classified ads online.

And for those who prefer reading the award-winning print version of The Sun, never fear: we remain dedicated to maintaining the quality and journalistic integrity that earned us our inclusion among the best newspapers in Florida.

Exciting times, with more to come.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Build the multi-use path I was most disappointed to read that the Anna Maria city commissioners decided not to approve the spending for the multi-use path. The city has the funds available, and with a $5 million city budget, this multi-use path costing $70,000 would be less than 2 percent of the entire budget.

The proposed multi-use path would run from CrossPointe church at the Holmes Beach city limit, to Willow Avenue, where it would connect with an existing city of Anna Maria bike route.

This multi-use path would be an aesthetically pleasing entry into our city, it would connect with the future path that Holmes Beach has planned, it would help tremendously with the in-season traffic, and most importantly, it would help in keeping pedestrians, bicyclists and motorists safer.

The installation of this path will never be less expensive than when it is tied in to the work already approved for installing the filtration system along Gulf Drive.

There is no perfect time to improve our city roads, but putting this path in will never be easier or more cost

effective than now.

I urge all city of Anna Maria voters to contact your commissioners and let them know your support for this project. The final budget ordinance will be voted on September 14th and September 28th.

Let’s stop admiring the problem and act now to make our streets safer and more effective.

Amy Tripp Anna Maria

Deceptive practices The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) has been deceptive about the final Cortez Bridge meeting. The announcement came the first week of August for an August 31 meeting. For months, various FDOT officials assured people who had made frequent, direct inquiries that it would not be held until late September or early October. FDOT misled folks so those who oppose a high bridge would be rushed to prepare.

FDOT scheduled the meeting at a time when many residents are “up north.”

As an entity, FDOT hates bascule

Take The Sun Survey on Page 7. bridges. Convenience is FDOT’s concern, not destruction of environment and community nor public safety during high wind events (County Commissioner Carol Whitmore recently posted that her car was blown by a wind gust into the other lane on the current “low” bridge). Think a high bridge will provide faster traffic flow?

I have a chart from FDOT – you will save three whole minutes.

Defeated – for many reasons - by a grass roots group in the 90s in a first attempt at a high bridge on Manatee Avenue, FDOT learned that public meetings, unfortunately, must be held and other agencies must be brought on board, as quietly as possible, to ramrod through high bridges on Manatee and Cortez.

At FDOT’s meeting, you will see expensive displays, officials and engineers. You can ask questions one on one, but not in a public forum setting.

FDOT balks at open, honest, challenging, opposing inquiry. Instead, attend the meeting at Cortez Fisherman’s Hall, August 26 from 1:30 -3:30, for the real bridge story.

Nancy R. Deal Holmes Beach

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AUGUST 23, 2017

THE SUN

7

on the agenda

the sun survey

PREVIOUS QUESTION: What do you think should be done following the death of Snooty the manatee at the South Florida Museum?

Anna Maria

65%

8/24: City Commission meeting, 6 p.m.

8/25: Election qualifying period ends, noon.

For information, call 7086130.

10005 Gulf Drive.

Determine how this tragedy occurred, learn from it, correct any deficiencies in operations, then let the museum officials get on with doing their job.

Bradenton Beach 107 Gulf Drive N.

None scheduled

For information, call 7781005.

Holmes Beach 5801 Marina Drive.

8/24: City Commission work session, 6 p.m.

8/28: Election qualifying period begins, noon.

9/1: Election qualifying period ends, noon.

For information, call 7085800.

mark your calendar

Note: Events are free unless indicated.

Wednesday August 23

35%

Investigate how and what happened, see if there was any negligence on the part of Snooty's caretakers, then take appropriate action.

The sun survey is not a scientific poll and is used for entertainment purposes only.

THIS WEEK’S SURVEY

Should the Manatee County

Commission approve or reject the proposed Aqua by the Bay development?

• Approve • Reject • Have the developer modify the proposal to comply with the county's comprehensive plan and land development code, then resubmit.

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

LIKE us on our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/AnnaMariaIslandSun View The Sun’s online edition at www.issuu.com/AnnaMariaIslandSun

Roser-Robics chair-based exercise class, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, 9:30 a.m.

Coloring Club, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, noon.

Chess Club, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 4 p.m.

Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce Business Card Exchange, Hancock Bank, 5324 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, 5 p.m., $5 per member or $10 per prospective member.

Thursday August 24

Boomer Boot Camp, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, 9:30 a.m. One class, $15; five classes, $65; 10 classes, $100.

Zumba and mat Pilates for seniors, Aging in Paradise Resource Center, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, second floor, 10 a.m., $10 per class. Reserve to maryannbrady@aginginparadise.org or 941-383-6493.

Friday August 25

The Anna Maria Island Sun staff Publishers Mike Field Maggie Field Editor/CEO Mike Field Layout Ricardo Fonseca Reporters Cindy Lane Tom Vaught Joe Hendricks

Kristin Swain Columnists Louise Bolger Outdoors editor Rusty Chinnis Ad director Chantelle Lewin Ad assistants Chris Boniberger Sue Otto

Classified ads Bob Alexander Graphics Elaine Stroili Ricardo Fonseca Web/Social media Cindy Lane Jocelyn V. Greene Accounting John Reitz

Distribution Bob Alexander Tony McNulty Connor Field Contributors Pat Copeland Steve Borggren Sean Murphy Monica Simpson

Meet Your Mayor, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 9 a.m.

Intermediate bridge session, Aging in Paradise Resource Center, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, 2nd Floor, Longboat Key, 10:30 to 11:30 a.m., $10, includes coffee and cookies. Reserve to maryannbrady@aginginparadise.org or 941-383-6493.

Mahjong, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 1 p.m.

Sunset drum circle, Manatee Beach, 4000 Gulf Drive,

Holmes Beach, 5 to 8 p.m.

Saturday August 26

CPR Training, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Pre-registration required. Reserve to 941778-6341.

Dyeing with Plant Based Dyes, The Folk School at Florida Maritime Museum, 4415 119th St. W., Cortez, 10 a.m., $35. Reserve to 941708-6120 or www.floridafolkschool.org.

Fermentation: Sauerkraut and Fermented Vegetables, The Folk School at Florida Maritime Museum, 4415 119th St., Cortez, 1 p.m.., $35. Reserve to 941-7086120 or www.floridafolkschool.org.

Monday August 28

Social bridge games, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, noon.

Tuesday August 29

Jelly making, The Folk School at Florida Maritime Museum, 4415 119th St., Cortez, 10 a.m.., $35.

Reserve to 941-708-6120 or www.floridafolkschool.org.

Wednesday August 30

Roser-Robics chair-based exercise class, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, 9:30 a.m.

Thursday August 31

Boomer Boot Camp, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, 9:30 a.m. One class, $15; five classes, $65; 10 classes, $100.

Zumba and mat Pilates for seniors, Aging in Paradise SEE CALENDAR, PAGE 8

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AUGUST 23, 2017

CHAPPIE: To run for mayor

calendar FROM PAGE 7

Resource Center, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, second floor, 10 a.m., $10 per class. Reserve to maryannbrady@aginginparadise.org or 941-383-6493.

Quilting, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m.

FROM PAGE 3

Friday

September 1

Forty Carrots, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m.

Intermediate bridge session, Aging in Paradise Resource Center, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, 2nd Floor, Longboat Key, 10:30 to 11:30 a.m., $10, includes coffee and cookies.

Reserve to maryannbrady@aginginparadise. org or 941-383-6493.

Mahjong, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 1 p.m.

Sunset drum circle, Manatee Beach, 4000 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, 5 to 8 p.m.

Tuesday

SS∑September 5

Boomer Boot Camp, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, 9:30 a.m. One class, $15; five classes, $65; 10 classes, $100.

Crochet 101, The Folk School at Florida Maritime Museum, 4415 119th St., Cortez, 1 p.m., $45. Reserve to 941-708-6120.

MIKE FIELD | SUN

Angry sunset A massive summer thunderstorm rumbles across the Gulf horizon at sunset.

community, and we need to plan more for where we want to be,” Chappie said.

“Bradenton Beach is my home and it always will be. I fell in love with it in 1974 and I have never left. My love is for this community and I love serving it and giving back to the community.”

In recent months, Chappie has voiced concerns about Shearon’s reluctance to share information with the four commissioners that are his legislative equals in the city’s weak mayor form of government.

“The commission is made up of five members – the mayor and the four commissioners – and we must never forget that. It’s about bringing things back to the commission to have that discussion, to set policy. It’s not keeping it to ourselves,” Chappie said.

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AUGUST 23, 2017

THE SUN

City charter amendments delayed The City Commission favors the traditional charter review process.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

BRADENTON BEACH – The charter amendment questions created and supported by the Concerned Neighbors of Bradenton Beach (CNOBB) group will not appear on the November ballot.

The amendments sought to eliminate the four City Commission wards; reduce commission candidate residency requirements from two years to one, and prohibit the commission from adopting commission-initiated ordinances that interpret the city charter that establishes how the city is governed.

Instead of rushing through an atypical petition-driven amendment process, the commission will follow standard protocol and appoint a charter review committee to review the charter and propose recommended charter amendments to be posed to city voters in a special election early next year or the general election later in that year.

The commission made these decisions at its Thursday, Aug. 17, meeting. Vice Mayor John Chappie chaired the meeting because Mayor Bill Shearon was absent due to a death in the family.

On. Aug. 14, commissioners received the 14-page memo City Attorney Ricinda Perry and City Clerk Terri Sanclemente submitted to Supervisor

joe hendricks | SUN

Members of the CNOBB citizens group were on hand as the fates of their petition initiatives were decided by the City Commission. of Elections Mike Bennett. The memo outlines their concerns about a petition initiated amendment process.

“The city clerk’s office and the office of the city attorney are of the opinion that the petitions submitted with this correspondence are not in compliance with the municipal constraints and procedural requirements set for in the city of Bradenton Beach municipal charter and upon further review, are fatally flawed in accordance with Florida law,” the memo states.

Commission decision

Last week, Perry asked the commission to decide if the proposed charter amendment process complied with the city charter, and whether the commission wanted her to draft the three or-

dinances required to move the process forward.

Perry said it would be challenging to create three ordinances and advertise and host two public hearings before the Sept. 1 ballot submission deadline.

Perry also said the proposed amendments could, and likely would, be challenged in court if adopted as currently presented.

Commissioner Jake Spooner asked the attending CNOBB members why there was such a rush to get the amendment questions placed on the upcoming November ballot. Reed Mapes said it was to spare the city the $2,500 it would cost to conduct a special election later. see CNOBB, page 16

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Charter review process The Bradenton Beach city charter it typically reviewed every five years. It was last reviewed in 2015 by a Charter Review Committee (CRC) chaired by Rick Bisio. The review process took several months and resulted in eight charter amendments being presented to city voters on the 2016 ballot, all of which passed. City voters approved two additional charter amendments during the August 2016 primary elections.

Each CRC proposed charter amendment ballot question must receive the City Commission’s majority support in order to be placed on a ballot.

As a result of last week’s commission meeting, the commission will discuss at its next regular meeting the configuration of a soon to be appointed CRC. At some point after that, Mayor Bill Shearon will nominate five potential members, each of whom will be approved or rejected by the commission’s majority vote.

Those appointed to the CRC will be subject to the same Sunshine Law restrictions that apply to other city commission, board and committee members. This means CRC members cannot discuss their charter review business with other CRC members outside of a public meeting at city hall.

It is likely that at least one of the five CRC members will be a member of the Concerned Neighbors of Bradenton Beach (CNOBB) citizens’ advocacy group, and the commission will determine whether any of the six CNOBB members recently named in a Sunshine Law lawsuit will be allowed to serve on the CRC.

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AUGUST 23, 2017

Vice mayor refuses to hear Metz complaint City officials previously deemed Metz’s complaints to be unfounded, and the case was closed.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

BRADENTON BEACH –Vice Mayor John Chappie denied John’s Metz’s request to address with the City Commission his ongoing complaints about Commissioner Ralph Cole’s Coastal Watersports business operations.

Chappie, who chaired the Aug. 17, meeting in Mayor Bill Shearon’s absence, told Metz a complaint of this nature was not an item that belonged on a City Commission agenda.

Metz asserts Cole’s beach rental business should not be allowed to use a motorized all-terrain vehicle to tow catamarans and personal watercraft from a beachfront location leased from the Silver Surf resort to the Gulf. Metz also objects to Cole storing, parking

and displaying watercraft for commercial rent; and utilizing the beach in a commercial manner.

In 2001, the City Commission provided Silver Surf owner Barbara Rodocker with a special exception that allows for these uses.

After Chappie denied Metz’s agenda request, Metz addressed the commission during general public comment.

He referenced George Orwell’s “Animal Farm” and said, “The main quote out of that book was all animals are equal, some animals are more equal, and that’s what’s happening here. I’ve gone through the system trying to get enforcement. I get stonewalled. If you won’t hear us, if we don’t have a right to talk about these matters out in the open, then they’re going to come out somewhere else where people will allow that.”

Metz is currently the plaintiff in a lawsuit he filed against the city regarding a neighbor’s vacation rental property that he objects to. He is also a defendant in a Sunshine Law lawsuit recently

joe hendricks | SUN

City resident John Metz voices his ongoing complaints to City Attorney Ricinda Perry, Vice Mayor John Chappie, Commissioner Ralph Cole and the rest of the City Commission. filed by the city and city resident Jack Clarke.

In response to Metz, Chappie said, “As far as the code enforcement issue, it’s gone through some processes, and it’s been basically turned down. There are appeals processes that the city has to follow. We are in fact following Florida statute with this particular action Mr. Metz has brought

forward on several occasions.”

Last October, Metz sent an e-mail to Code Enforcement Officer Gail Garneau regarding the special exception granted to the Silver Surf Resort.

“The special exception is limited to the Silver Surf parcel and does not extend to the beach Gulfward of the parcel,” he wrote.

Building Official Steve Gilbert

then sent Metz an e-mail that said, “Staff has reviewed the special exception approval granted on March 1, 2001. It is apparent from review of those documents that the city granted authorization for rental of watercraft at 1301 Gulf Drive North, including all lands noted in the legal description. It is specifically noted that the legal description includes all lands to the waters of the Gulf of Mexico.

Based on our review of the records, we find that your allegations are unfounded.”

When asked then about Metz’s complaint, Cole said, “There is no validity to this complaint.”

Last November, Metz e-mailed similar complaints directly to Police Chief Sam Speciale.

Speciale responded with an e-mail that said, “I must remind you that the city code violations that you are referring to were addressed by the building official, city planner, code enforcement officer and myself. After reviewing all available historical and present data regarding that claim, it was determined to be unfounded and

AUGUST 23, 2017

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THE SUN

11

Former councilwoman, activist Martini dies

BY TOM VAUGHT SUN STAFF WRITER | tvaught@amisun.com

File photo

Hard rains in late April produced this localized flooding that subsided more quickly due to the installation of one-way check valves and other recent drainage improvements.

Stormwater expenditures increased Mayor Dan Murphy and the Anna Maria City Commission are going all in when it comes to stormwater and drainage improvements for the new budget year that begins in October.

“For 2017-18, we budgeted $688,731, which represents a 29 percent increase in stormwater spending over this current year, which was $490,400,”

Murphy said of the commission commitment made earlier this month. “It is the most aggressive stormwater program this city has ever put in place to address one of the most critical infrastructure issues on the Island. I commend our commissioners for taking action."

HOLMES BEACH – Anna Maria Island lost a champion this week.

Billie Martini passed away around 1 a.m. on Monday, Aug. 21 at her Holmes Beach house with friends at her side. Martini, who moved to the Island in 1944 with her parents, married Bob Martini in 1951. He built one of the first motels on the Island where the Bridgeport Condominiums are today. He also served as mayor of Bradenton Beach.

Martini later moved to Holmes Beach, and she had ideas for the future of the city. She wanted a citywide drainage plan, bicycle trails and a city beautification plan.

When she served four years on the Holmes Beach City Commission, she backed a public swimming pool and she was an activist against replacing the Anna Maria Island drawbridge with a high, fixed span. She was instrumental in the city’s purchase and development of Grassy Point Preserve.

She was active in SAM (Save Anna Maria), which successfully challenged the Florida Department of Transportation’s initial attempt at building a tall bridge.

Former Bradenton Beach Mayor Katie Pierola, said she saw Martini two weeks ago, and she had kind words for her.

“I consider her an angel from the Island,” Pierola said. “She was very humble and never wanted to take praise for what she did.”

A later member of SAM, Nancy

It's really sad because she was a great American. She is what America is all about - grassroots effort.

She tried to make her community better."

Nancy Deal SAM member

Deal, spoke of her passing.

“It’s really sad because she was a great American,” Deal said. “She’s what America is all about - grass roots efforts. She tried to make her community better.”

There are no plans for a service for Martini, who was also a teacher’s aide at Anna Maria Elementary School.

THE LARGEST SELECTION OF SPIRITS, WINE AND BEER & THE FRIENDLIEST SERVICE ON THE ISLAND See us in store for weekly specials and a new rewards program!

9:00 am - 10:00 pm 7 Days a Week 5344 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach 941.779.2337

12

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Alley clearing workshops pending The city of Bradenton Beach will soon host outdoor neighborhood workshops regarding the removal and relocation of fences and other objects placed in city-owned alleys and right of ways by private property owners. The encroach-

ing objects must be removed to accommodate planned stormwater and drainage improvements. City Engineer Lynn Burnett did not provide exact dates, but she said one workshop would take place along 25th Street, discussing the

alleys to the north and south; and a similar workshop would take place 24th Street. The workshop dates will be publicly noticed via signs posted in the alley entryways.

CORTEZ BOIL

I’m an Original Discover Blue Marlin Located on beautiful Anna Maria Island, in a quaint 1920’s cottage on historic Bridge Street with a cozy beer & wine bar & enchanting outdoor courtyard. We are dedicated to serving only the freshest, local seafood & hearty fare. Our commitment is to bring you the best product the Gulf Coast has to offer – it’s what makes us Original!

Adam Ellis, owner, Blue Marlin Seafood

The Sarasota-Manatee Originals is a group of locally owned restaurants who share a passion for dining excellence and commitment to our community.

eatlikealocal.com 15 South Ristorante • Amore Restaurant • Andrea’s • Anna Maria Oyster Bar • Arts & Eats Restaurant and Gallery • Beach House • The Bijou Café • Birdrock Taco Shack • Blase Café • Blu Island Bistro • Blue Marlin Seafood • Bridge Street Bistro • Café Baci • Café Gabbiano • Café Venice • Cassariano Italian Eatery • Cedar Reef Fish Camp • Chaz 51 Bistro • Ciao! Italia • The Crow’s Nest • Drunken Poet Café • Duval’s • enRich Bistro • Euphemia Haye • Fast N Fresh • Fins at Sharky’s • Gold Rush BBQ • Gulf Drive Café + Tiki • Harry’s Continental Kitchens • JPAN Restaurant • Lobster Pot • MADE Restaurant • Mar Vista Dockside Restaurant & Pub • Mattison’s Forty-One • Michael John’s • Michael’s On East • mi Pueblo • Miguel’s Restaurant • Oasis Café and Bakery • Ophelia’s On The Bay • Ortygia Restaurant • Pacific Rim • Paradise Grill • PIER 22 • Plated Modern Kitchen • Polo Grill & Bar • Primo! Ristorante • Riverhouse Reef & Grill • Roessler’s Restaurant • Salute! Restaurant • Sandbar Seafood & Spirits • Seafood Shack • Siesta Key Oyster Bar • State Street • Stottlemyer’s Smokehouse • Tsunami • Village Café • The Waterfront Restaurant on Anna Maria • The White Horse Pub

AUGUST 23, 2017

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AUGUST 23, 2017

THE SUN

13

Issues remain at 77th Street construction site Open 7 days a week, 8 a.m. – 8 p.m.

Walk-In Clinics provide school and sports physicals, basic vaccines, treat minor emergencies, illnesses, injuries, employer services… And more!

4647 Manatee Ave. W. | Bradenton 941.745.5999 www.bradentonurgentcare.com

Member of Manatee Physician Alliance 170306

The Florida Department of Environmental Protection is requiring the property owners to replace removed vegetation or prove their case.

BY KRISTIN SWAIN SUN STAFF WRITER | kswain@amisun.com

HOLMES BEACH — It’s been more than a month since the lot at 102 77th Street was cleared to prepare the area for a pool and the existing house for a wrecking ball.

Now the city and the property owners are locked in a stalemate with a stop work order red tag still firmly in place by the property’s front door.

The order was issued by Building Official Jim McGuinness after inspecting the property in early July, determining that the work being done was outside of the scope approved by the Florida Department of Environmental (DEP) protection.

The order was intended to remain in place until an investigation into the issue could be completed by DEP representatives.

In an Aug. 1 letter accompanying the DEP report on the situation, Environmental Manager for the DEP’s southwest district Michael Lynch said the property owner, Gulf Front Paradise LLC, would need to either initiate corrective action to bring the project back into compliance with the existing DEP permit or provide information that mitigates or invalidates the department’s concerns.

According to the inspector’s on-site inspection report, “non-compliance in the form of native dune vegetation and minor topography alteration” was found, though it also says that no negative impacts to the dunes protecting the property were noted.

Corrective action recommended

Kristin Swain | Sun

A red tag stop work order remains in effect Aug. 16 at 102 77th Street. The stop work order was issued by Holmes Beach Building Official Jim McGuinness after large amounts of vegetation were removed from the site including sea oats, sea grapes and mangroves. includes requesting a permit transfer to include the new name of the LLC that owns the property and submit a re-vegetation plan within 21 days.

The report notes a change in the LLC name from Seashore of Holmes Beach to Gulf Front Paradise. Both entities are attached to local developer Shawn Kaleta. The response period ends this week.

Previously, McGuinness said he would not remove the red tag on the

property, allowing construction to continue, until a re-vegetation plan was submitted and the construction on the property is within the scope of work allowed by issued DEP and city permits. Now, while he said he won’t comment on the ongoing issues with the property, he planned to present a report to city commissioners during the Aug. 22 meeting, after press time for The Sun.

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THE SUN

AUGUST 23, 2017

Submitted

Walters retires Bill Walters, on right, retires from Anna Maria City Pier bait shop after 16 years. George Glasser and Dee Brady came out for Bill's last day before he retires to Mexico. Bill has served generations of young fisherman over the years and will be missed.

FREE HOME

DELIVERY!

CELEBRATING COASTAL & CLASSIC

SEAFOOD DINING

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AUGUST 23, 2017

THE SUN

15

Waterline delays opening day After missing the latest soft opening date, the Waterline Marina Resort and Beach Club is now scheduled to open at the end of September.

BY KRISTIN SWAIN SUN STAFF WRITER | kswain@amisun.com

HOLMES BEACH — August 16 came and went but the new Waterline Marina Resort and Beach Club is still under construction.

The delay came as a result of construction at the resort property, 5325 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, not being completed in time to receive occupancy permits from the city building department.

According to July emails between Holmes Beach Building Official Jim McGuinness and Mainsail Lodging and Development Vice President Brian Check, issues were occurring on both sides to prevent the resort from opening on time to receive guests already booked for the latest attempt at open-

Kristin Swain | Sun

Construction equipment decorates the area between the main lodge and another guest building at the site of the new Waterline resort. ing day.

Some of the issues cited include needed building permits not received from the city, construction not completed in time and inspections not yet scheduled with the building department.

With work on the site not finished, a Marriott customer service representative said reservations at the property have been suspended until the last weekend of September. Guests with reservations at the resort prior to that time are being relocated to other

nearby available properties or being refunded.

Though the resort is owned by Mainsail, it is listed as part of the Marriott Autograph Collection, a group of independently-owned boutique hotels that use Marriott for booking and advertisement.

As delays to opening day continue, disgruntled guests have taken to social media to vent their frustration at the cancelation of their vacations with the resort receiving a 2.1 star rating on Google, a 1 star rating on TripAdvisor and a 2.7 star rating on FaceBook.

Issues listed in reviews of the resort include lack of communication from hotel staff and late-notice cancellation of reservations.

The new late September planned opening gives Mainsail and the city just over a month to work out their differences to complete construction and inspection of the buildings before guests expect to check in. McGuinness said an update on the project will be given to city commissioners during an Aug. 22 meeting, after press time for The Sun.

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THE SUN

Franchise ordinance and camping prohibition on agenda

AUGUST 23, 2017

Joyful Noise

VOCAL TECHNIQUE • BEGINNING SIGHT-READING CONCEPTS • PERFORMANCE SKILLS

A FREE

The agenda for the Thursday, April 24, Anna Maria City Commission meeting lists the following items: general public comment; grand tree removal at 62 North Shore Dr.; the second reading of the formula retail (franchise) ordinance; the second reading up

the updated comprehensive plan; the first reading of a camping prohibition ordinance; community center public records; a city pier park update; and the mayor’s report. The meeting will begin at 6 p.m.

AFTER SCHOOL

Community Choir

for Children in K-5 th Grade Van transportation from AME • Snacks Directed by Kristen Stanton, DIRECTOR OF MUSIC MINISTRIES

More info & Register ONLINE: RoserChurch.com/JOYFUL NOISE Loving Christ •Sharing His Grace •Serving All COMMUNITY CHURCH

SUNDAY WORSHIP

CNOBB: Amendments delayed FROM PAGE 9

“If we work together to get the charter initiatives right, with our review committee, to get a special election, I don’t have a problem with that,” Chappie said.

“I want to make sure we do it right so we don’t have to go into litigation,” Commissioner Marilyn Maro said. “I think you should do it the right way, even if it takes a little bit longer. If you all would have came forward with this stuff, we wouldn’t have been where we are today.”

CNOBB chair Bill Vincent said, “Why did we, CNOBB, not come to you, commission?”

He cited the commission’s refusal to voluntarily enact a building moratorium. He also claimed the commission “emasculated” recent planning board’s recommendations regarding vacation rentals, lot coverage and home sizes.

“The commission, historically, has

been non-responsive to the residents,” Vincent said.

Chappie noted that more than 100 people signed each of the charter amendments petitions, and Mapes said that equates to 20 percent of the city’s registered voters.

Each petition garnered at least 115 signatures. According the Supervisor of Elections’ website, Bradenton Beach has 741 registered voters, which means approximately 15 percent signed the petitions.

“There might be 20 percent that signed that petition, but there’s still another 80 percent of the people out there,” Commissioner Ralph Cole said.

“If you go through the proper procedures and do it right, I don’t have a problem with it.”

Vincent and Mapes eventually agreed that the traditional charter review process was the proper way to go and the commission voted 4-0 in favor it.

TUESDAY 3:15-4 0S Starts Se:0 pt 5

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8:30 AM in the Chapel 10:00 AM in the Sanctuary

10:00 AM Nursery & Church School 8:45 AM Adult Bible Study

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512 Pine Ave • Anna Maria

16

941-778-0414 • www.RoserChurch.com • www.facebook.com/RoserChurch

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AUGUST 23, 2017

THE SUN

17

WMFR commissioners prepare for budget vote With no public comment and positive commission discussion, the new WMFR budget may be on track for approval in September.

BY KRISTIN SWAIN SUN STAFF WRITER | kswain@amisun.com

BRADENTON — West Manatee Fire Rescue district is one step closer to having an approved budget ahead of the Oct. 1 start to the new fiscal year.

District commissioners held the first of two public budget hearings Aug. 17 where Chief Tom Sousa presented his recommendations for the 2017-18 budget to commissioners. No members of the public were present at the open meeting.

Sousa said only minor adjustments were made to the budget since it was first shared in draft form to commissioners during an April work session. Major items he noted include the $280,000 purchase of SCBA equipment –

the equipment firefighters use to breathe while in a burning building, the phasing in of the district’s new non-transport advanced life support (ALS) service and a wage increase negotiated in a contract with the firefighters’ union.

Sousa said the SCBA equipment purchase was the highest priority listed on the budget’s capital outlay items for the coming year, though the district is still in the running for a federal grant to cover the expense. Grants are expected to be awarded within the next 30 to 45 days. If the district does receive the grant, Sousa said the money planned for SCBA equipment purchase will be rolled over into the following fiscal year’s budget.

For the new non-transport ALS program, Sousa said the onboarding expenses are planned to be phased in over the next three to four fiscal years as the program is launched at each district fire station. He said his plan is to purchase needed equipment as each of four fire engines is brought online with the program.

Kristin Swain | Sun

West Manatee Fire Rescue Chief Tom Sousa presents his recommendations for the district’s 2017-18 fiscal year budget Aug. 17 to commissioners with Battalion Chief Ben Rigney at his side.

Firefighters are currently being trained on their own to time to become full-fledged paramedics.

The first WMFR non-transport ALS engine is expected to be ready for action at Station 3 in Holmes Beach sometime in 2018.

The launch of the program will allow firefighter paramedics to provide the same care to patients on arrival at the scene of a fire or

accident as EMS workers without the ability to transport patients to the hospital.

For firefighters, the wage increase of $1,250 per employee in the coming year represents the third year of a contract previously negotiated with the firefighters’ union. Sousa said bargaining with the union for a new contract will begin next March.

“It’s a good budget,” Commissioner David Bishop said when Sousa finished his presentation.

“I’m happy and contented that we have a very well thought-out budget.”

Other commissioners agreed with Bishop’s sentiments.

“Good job, Chief,” Commission Chair George Harris said.

With the district budgeted at $7,492,000 for the year, Sousa said he hopes to be able to “hold the line” and not increase taxpayer assessments in 2018-19.

“We should be pretty solid next year,” he said.

Commissioner Al Robinson said he was grateful for the opportunity to look at the budget in detail. “For the taxpayer, it makes us take a hard look at it and that’s good,” he said.

Commissioners will vote on the budget during the second public budget hearing scheduled for 6 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 13, at the administration building, 6417 Third Ave. W., Bradenton.

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AUGUST 23, 2017

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AUGUST 23, 2017

THE SUN

19

The Beach Bistro’s Beard House adventure

BY SEAN MURPHY SPECIAL TO THE SUN

A

ugust is a good month to stay inside in the AC with memories.

Some of the Bistro’s richest are our August memories of preparing for our first Beard House dinner.

The most demanding and most exhilarating dinner a restaurateur will ever produce is a performance dinner at the James Beard House in New York City – America’s culinary temple.

The coveted invitation begins with discreet visits from anonymous members of the Beard House board.

If they consider you worthy, you get an interview.

Susan and I travelled to the House for an interview with Mildred – a tough lady with "dred" right there in her name.

I wore my New York jacket and tie and sported a Golden Spoon on my lapel.

The Golden Spoon was awarded by Florida Trend to the top 20 restaurants in the state.

The Spoon was a big deal – in Florida – but it seemed to just antagonize Mildred.

“So what's a Golden Spoon except something to stick on your jacket?”

Nice. An auspiscious beginning.

Mildred's culinary universe ended at the shores of Manhattan. There were lesser satellites in Boston and Washington, but she saw no signs of culinary life south of the Mason-Dixon.

I asked if we got to perform a dinner if we could reserve some tickets for guests traveling with us.

Mildred sniffed. “You need not worry. You will never sell out the Beard House.”

My Irish blood began to simmer.

I gave her my pale imitation of my Uncle George’s stink eye.

“M’am I will buy every one of those tickets right now if you like. We will sell out the Beard House.”

Mildred made her sniffing noise.

She turned to our media packet. “So, you host a St Patrick's Day parade.”

I was aggravated. I boasted a little.

“It’s the largest St Patrick’s Day Parade south and east of Savannah.”

It was the only St Patrick’s Day Parade south and east of Savannah.

Mildred baited me. “In our little town on Long Island we have an elephant in our St Patrick's Day parade.”

Susan looked at my face and thought, “Uh-Oh. We are going to have an elephant in our next St Patrick's Day parade.”

Weeks later the Bistro received its invitation. Our date was set for September of the next year.

That August was a torment. Getting the world's best lamb, shrimp and lobster and a thousand accoutrements from all over the hemisphere into the basement kitchen of the W Hotel, 1500 miles away, was the logistical culinary equivalent of D-Day. I arrived a week early to catch the scores of shipments. I gave out $100 bills to hotel staff like they were fives.

They could have stolen us blind. I had to make sure everything hit the walk-in and stayed there.

The more complex sauces and butters had to be carefully prepared at the Bistro and then shipped in massive

coolers with dry ice on the inside and duct tape all over the outside.

The chef team arrived and began securing our provenance.

A panicked chef called.

“UPS busted one of the coolers.

The chocolate truffle terrine is floating in the blue tomato soup! What are we gonna do?”

“Taste it,” I said.

“What...?”

“Taste it. When are we going to get another chance to taste chocolate terrine in the tomato soup.”

That night we started our dinner with a fresh batch of blue tomato soup.

The place was packed.

I told Mildred we would sell out the Beard House, and we did.

Our food heaven with butter-poached lobster and foie gras on domestic Colorado rack of lamb wowed them.

I finished my evening swilling a bottle of Caymus, sitting with my bare feet poking out of my hotel window. I was exhausted, but triumphant.

Mildred be damned.

Surfside … Anna Maria Island

“Best Restaurant in America” 4.9 out of 5 ZAGAT stars One of only 11 in the entire country

941.778.6444 www.BeachBistro.com

20

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THE SUN

AUGUST 23, 2017

• • • • • SUBMITTED

City commissioners finalize the city’s new vacation rental regulations.

Vacation rental rules adopted Bradenton Beach joins Anna Maria and Holmes Beach in adopting locally enforceable vacation rental regulations.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

BRADENTON BEACH – On Monday, the City Commission adopted on second and final reading the amended vacation rental regulations contained in the Quality of Life Ordinance first adopted, but never enacted, in late 2015.

All property owners in the city

will receive written notices from the city informing them of new rental regulations and requirements. Large resorts with a single owner or ownership group that has is registered with the state as a hotel/motel will be exempt from the new regulations, as will owner-occupied rentals that provide onsite management six hours a day, six days a week. The annual registration fee will be $150, and those who fail to register their rental properties will face a $300 fine. Rental properties will only be inspected on a complaint-driven basis.

Digitally accessible QR (Quick

Response) Code stickers containing owner/agent contact information will be placed near the front entrances of vacation rental units instead of the exterior signs originally included in the ordinance.

The ordinance will become effective in 90 days and the registration process will soon get underway. At that point, the city of Bradenton Beach will join the city of Anna Maria and Holmes Beach in enacting locally-enforceable vacation rental regulations.

For more information contact the city clerk’s office at 941-7781005.

• • • • • • •

TIP-OFFS TO POTENTIAL RIP-OFFS

If you must act now, the offer is probably to good to be true.

You pull the permits? - NO Solici ng door to door – “Just finished a job down the street”- NO Unmarked vehicle – NO No physical address for the office/shop – NO Be sure the contractor’s phone number is listed in your local directory.

Discount as your’s is a “demonstra on home” – NO Pay everything up-front for a discount? – NO Ask to see your contractor’s license and check with the FL Dept of Business & Professional Regula on to verify.

Check with your neighbors and friends – Have they used this contractor before?

Don’t be afraid to ask for references.

Ask for proof of insurance, both General Liability (to protect your property) and Workers Compensa on (to cover anyone who would get hurt on your job).

Get an es mate/proposal in wri ng.

Make sure it specifies work to be performed.

Join Grego and his amazing racing hermit crabsevery Tuesday at 7:00 PM

Slicker's Pig Roast This Sunday

4628 119th St W Cortez (941)798-2035 swordfishgrill.com Marker 49 by boat

AUGUST 23, 2017

FOOD & WINE

THE SUN

21

Eating the day away: Cortez Liza Kubik

T

THE SEAFOOD SHACK

raveling to any new destination can provide delicious dilemmas. The where-to-eat quest that leads to dining discoveries. Visitors to Cortez could soon face the same predicament as the area’s offerings are growing and the culinary creativity flowing.

So in the fashion of Zagat’s “Perfect day of eating” and the New York Times’ “36 hours in … ," here’s "Eating the day away: Cortez." There are many fantastic restaurants in Cortez. This is just a sampling of tried, true and new.

Don’t get your knickers in a twist if your favorite isn’t mentioned.

Breakfast: Cortez Café 12108 Cortez Road W.

A Cortez classic, the unassuming café offers the best breakfasts for miles at reasonable prices. Try a (Plate-Size) large pancake or Cortezian 4-egg omelette while locals catch up on the day’s news enjoying bottomless cups of coffee at shared tables.

Leaving fortified, visit the Florida Maritime Museum and check out a class at the Folk School, 4415 119th St W.

Mid-morning Snack: Cortez Fish Market 12110 Cortez Road W.

With an amazing assortment of the freshest seafood around, Wyre and his crew also make some of the best shrimp salad and smoked salmon in town and it happens to open at 10 a.m. – perfect for your first snack of the day.

Grab a sleeve of saltines too and take it with you to the nearby Cortez Village Cultural Center, 11655 Cortez Road, W., and learn about the area’s first residents from South Carolina.

Lunch: Sea Smoke Smokehouse 11904 Cortez Road W.

The lunch-counter’s chalkboard menu announces daily specials like brisket bahn mi with sriracha mayo and pickled veg and snack boxes of layered goodness served in Chinese take-out-style boxes. Don’t rush! Check out the smoked meats and fishes and signature accoutrements from the market. Everything is made in-house and ingredients are sourced locally when possible.

With newfound energy, get out on the water! Visit Chris at H2O Watersportz to rent a jet ski or introduce yourself to Dan at Coastal Paddle Boarding.

Afternoon Snack: Mermaid Pies and Produce 10115 Cortez Road W.

We are so happy that National Pie Contest winner and accomplished pastry chef Andrea Spring has found her way from AMI to Cortez. It will be difficult

THE SHACK RUM PUNCH

Makes two generous drinks Cruzan rums mixed with tropical fruit juices. A straightforward and refreshing recipe that packs a punch.

Ingredients

1 oz. Cruzan Pineapple Rum 1 oz. Cruzan Coconut Rum 1 oz. Cruzan Mango Rum 1 oz. Cruzan Banana Rum 1 oz. dark rum 1/2 c. (4 oz.) pineapple juice 1/2 c. (4 oz.) orange juice 1/2 c. (4 oz) fresh lime juice 1 oz. Rose's Grenadine 1 Tbs. Rose's Lime Juice Garnish cherry, slice of orange

Directions

Mix ingredients together, pour over ice and garnish with an orange slice and a cherry. to choose from the selection of decadent desserts. Enjoy a slice then take a whole pie or quiche home with you for late-night noshing.

Cocktails: Happy Hour at Swordfish Grill & Tiki Bar 4628 119th St. W.

Head to the historic fishing village for a fruity boat drink on its large, wooden outdoor deck overlooking Sarasota Bay. Owned by a third-generation Cortez fisherman, the former banquet hall oozes Old Florida. GM Bob Slicker and his team offer Happy

submitted

End your day in Cortez with a rum punch at the Seafood Shack.

Hour Monday through Saturday from 4 to 6 p.m. and live music nine times per week.

Dinner: Seafood Shack 4410 127th St. W.

Walk the docks then settle in at a waterfront table for a full meal with sparkling views of the Intracoastal waterway and beyond. American fare and fresh

seafood are proudly prepared at The Shack as new ownership continues the revitalization of the 45-year-old iconic property. Favorites include the shrimp & grits, fish tacos and fisherman’s platter.

Order a Shack rum punch as the sun slowly sinks into the Gulf.

22

THE SUN

OUTDOORS

AUGUST 23, 2017

Seagrass: rainforests of the sea T

he seagrass meadows that surround Anna Maria Island are mostly hidden from view and are only exposed on extreme low tides during the full and new moons. Magical and mysterious like a tropical rainforest, they harbor and support a tremendous array of life. And while we have a limited understanding of this web of life, it is responsible for much of the beauty and diversity of the area.

Seagrasses are flowering plants that serve a number of important functions.

Since they flower, they require sunlight and are limited to clear, shallow waters.

They produce oxygen, bind sediments and baffle wave action, while cleansing coastal waters.

Seagrass roots, their leaves, and the epiphytes and micro algae that cling to them, clean water by converting dissolved nutrients into plant matter. Besides giving us clean and clear water, seagrasses are home to a vast aray of organisms that provide food and shelter for fish, crustaceans, shellfish, manatees and wading

Reel Time RUSTY CHINNIS birds.

While there are 52 species of seagrasses worldwide, only seven are found in Florida. Locally they include turtle (Thalassia testudinum), shoal (Halodule wrightii) and manatee grasses (Syringodium filiforme). The loss of these species has been extensive throughout Florida.

At one time Tampa Bay had lost 81 percent of its historical cover, Sarasota Bay 35 percent and Charlotte Harbor 29 percent. Poor watershed management (storm water run-off and sewage disposal) dredge and fill operations and scaring from boats have taken a heavy toll on Florida’s seagrasses.

Fortunately, the influence of citizens

rUSTY CHINNIS | sun

A full moon low tide exposes a seagrass meadow through organizations like Sarasota Bay Watch, Tampa Bay Watch, the Tampa Bay National Estuary Program and the Sarasota Bay Estuary Program have instituted programs that are beginning to turn the tide on water quality. The increase in

water quality has led to a resurgence in local seagrass coverage. In Tampa Bay, sea grass coverage has reached 41,655 acres, surpassing a goal of 38,000 acres see reel time, page 23

www.amisun.com

AUGUST 23, 2017

reel time: Seagrass supports life

THE SUN

23

Fishing amazing in the Gulf Captain Dave White

FROM PAGE 22

set in 2014.

Anglers, from experience, are aware of the importance of these seagrasses. They experience first hand the myriad interactions that produce fertile fisheries. They may not understand the intricate web of existence that proceeds from the microscopic level to the fish on the end of their line, but they reap the benefits none the less. Government scientists (NOAA) consider seagrasses to be of such importance, that they have adopted a no net loss policy to manage them. Despite this noble pronouncement, seagrasses remain under assault.

The loss of valuable seagrass beds must be a higher priority. Fortunately watershed management, replanting, avoidance of direct impacts to existing grasses and mitigation are helping to approach those lofty and critical goals.

It is a foregone conclusion that development will continue to impact coastal areas and their seagrass resources. It is vital that decisions are made that will allow needed development while forming policies that will protect the quality of our most valuable local resource, the Gulf, bay and its sea grass beds. To reject proper growth management is to squander the birthright our children and future generations. Enlightened citizens, anglers and their interest groups must take part in this decision making process.

Cost considerations often eclipse concerns for seagrasses, but research reveals the true value of these resources. A study (Virnstein and Morris 1996) conducted in the Indian River Lagoon estimated the value of seagrass to be $12,500 per acre, per year, based solely on economic values derived from recreational and commercial fisheries.

Having established the importance both ecologically and economically of seagrasses, it is crucial that we develop rules and procedures that assure we maintain (no net loss) the current standing stock. A wiser decision would be to enact management policies mandating an increase in these rainforests of the sea.

It's been an amazingly flat week on the Gulf of Mexico. Conditions have been nothing short of amazing, and so is the fishing – from mangrove snapper eating chummed baits off of the surface in 50 feet of water to big mahi showing up in 100 feet of water. We've been getting big Spanish mackerel and the occasional kingfish from 3 to 10 miles offshore, even getting them to eat a well placed fly from time to time. In deeper waters, I'm finding mahi, big red grouper and all varieties of snapper. There is still a few tarpon around if you haven't hooked up on one yet this year.

Big snook are seemingly everywhere right now.

captain DAVE WHITE | SUbmitted

Tony Jimenez, of Longboat Key, shows off a gorgeous mahi caught with Capt. David White, of Anna Maria Charters.

Chumming live shiners is a sure fire way to get these guys fired up. If

you can handle the heat, be sure to take advantage of the glassy Gulf

conditions.

NozDoc.com team strikes again Dr. Roger Danziger and Dr. Bruce Lipskind caught some big 5- to 6-pound mangrove snappers this past Sunday 50 miles off Holmes Beach in 150 feet of water.

submitted

tide chart for anna maria city pier-august 23-30 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

Day Date

Wed 8/23

1:20a 1.86

6:39a 0.96

12:43p 2.56

7:42p 0.42

7:05-8:00

Thu 8/24

1:43a 1.95

7:28a 0.87

1:31p 2.37

8:12p 0.62

Fri 8/25

2:08a 2.05

8:18a 0.79

2:21p 2.17

8:41p 0.81

Sat 8/26

2:36a 2.14

9:10a 0.75

3:15p 1.96

9:10p 1.00

7:06-7:59 7:06-7:58 7:07-7:57

A.M. High Time Feet

A.M. Low Time Feet

P.M. High Time Feet

P.M. Low Time Feet

Sun Rise Set

Sun 8/27

3:08a 2.21

10:09a 0.73

4:17p 1.77

9:40p 1.79

7:07-7:56

Mon 8/28

3:45a 2.25

11:18a 0.72

5:36p 1.61

10:13p 1.33

7:08-7:55

Tues 8/29

4:30a 2.26

12:36p 0.69

7:35p 1.54

Wed 8/30

5:26a 2.26

1:58p 0.61

9:41p 1.60

10:59p 1.47

7:08-7:54 7:09-7:53

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THE SUN

AUGUST 23, 2017

Lot coverage reductions dismissed Bradenton Beach city commissioners recently discussed lot coverage recommendations presented by City Planner Alan Garrett and Building Official Steve Gilbert, but took no action. The commission decided not to count swimming pools or parking spaces as impervious surfaces when calculating lot coverage and stormwater drainage. The commission decided not to change existing regulations that allow for stairwells and mechanical equipment to intrude on setbacks. The commission did not want to penalize private property owners by addressing vacation rental concerns with reduced lot coverage and smaller home sizes.

The commission would like additional discussion on pool landscaping and buffering as a means of reducing pool noise.

joe hendricks | SUN

The rental home on the north end of Bradenton Beach features two front yard swimming pools.

Chamber gathers to celebrate Hancock Bank, 5324 Gulf Drive in Holmes Beach, hosts the Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce business card exchange on Wednesday, Aug. 23, from 5 to 7 p.m. and this year ’s theme is Celebrating Summer Days with swim noodle art. There will be prizes for the most creative entry as well as snacks and refreshments. The cost is $5 per member and $10 for prospective members. New members who signed up during last month’s membership drive will be admitted free.

On Wednesday, Sept. 6, the Ugly Grouper, located at 5704 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, will host the AMI Chamber luncheon from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. The cost to attend is $15 for members and $25 for prospective mem-

bers.

Wednesday, Sept. 13, IMG Academy Golf Club, located at 4350 El Conquistador Parkway, Bradenton, will host the AMI Chamber sunrise breakfast from 7:45 to 9 a.m. The cost to attend is $8 for members and $16 for prospective members.

The AMI Chamber business card exchange will be held on Wednesday, Sept. 27, from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Manatee Performing Arts Center, located at 502 3rd Ave. W., Bradenton. The cost to attend is $5 for members and $10 for prospective members. Call the Chamber at 941-778-1541 for more information or to RSVP.

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AUGUST 23, 2017

BEACH BEAT Anna Maria

8/1, lost property, 500 block of Spring Avenue. The complainant lost his wallet.

8/3, lost property, 100 block of Palm Avenue. The complainant said she lost a bracelet.

8/3, curfew violation, resisting a law enforcement officer without violence, 200 block of Willow Avenue. The deputy pulled up to a vehicle where he knew the driver had no registration or insurance. He tried to place the driver under arrest, but the suspect fled.

Later, the suspect’s father called to say he was at his home, but he fled again. He was spotted on a bus and was arrested.

8/4, criminal mischief, 800 block of North Shore Drive.

The complaint said somebody scratched his rental car.

8/5, open door, Sandbar restaurant, 100 Spring Ave. The deputy responded to an alarm after hours and found a door open. There were no signs of forced entry, so she secured the building.

8/5, trespass warning, Bayfront Park, 316 N. Bay Blvd.

The deputy on patrol found the subject sleeping in a wooded area. He was told to leave and not return to the park.

8/5, DUI, driving with license suspended, resisting a law enforcement officer without violence, petit theft, 700 block of S. Bay Boulevard. A deputy spotted the defendant driving after he left a restaurant without paying. He was weaving on the road and almost struck the deputy’s patrol car head-on. The deputy got him to stop, but he fled on foot. He stopped when he could not get over a fence. He admitted to driving

Obituaries Sara Elizabeth Walton Sara Elizabeth Walton was born in Elk Horn, Wisc., on July 25, 1979. She moved to Rising Sun, Ind., where she became a gifted athlete, She played center in basketball for her undefeated high school team. She was also a gifted volleyball player.

Graduating from the University of Southern Indiana, her caring heart led her to a degree in social sciences. Sara loved meeting new people. She was quick to make a friend with her infectious laugh and vibrant smile.

Sara moved to Holmes Beach four years ago. She was a passionate animal lover, taking special interest in sea turtles. Through trying times, Sara managed

without a license and showed symptoms of impairment and was arrested.

8/7, trespass warning, Bayfront Park, 316 N. Bay Blvd.

The deputy on patrol found two subjects sleeping in a wooded area. They were told to leave and not return to the park.

8/8, criminal mischief, 101 N. Bay Blvd. City property was damage by a person unknown.

8/8, lost property, 211 Palm Ave. A Waste Management trash can was missing.

8/10, driving with a suspended license, 8600 Gulf Drive.

During a traffic stop, the driver was arrested for driving with a suspended license for the fourth time.

8/13, information, Beach Avenue on the beach. The deputy responded to a report of bones on the beach and found them. The Sheriff’s Office is trying to determine if they are human.

Bradenton Beach

8/8, Marchman Act, 2600 block of Avenue C. The officer responded to a call that there was a female lying in the street. He found her and could not get any information from her because of her intoxication. Because it was apparent to him she could not fend for herself, he called for an ambulance under the Marchman Act. 8/15, possession of drugs and paraphernalia, 300 block of Gulf Drive South. The officer was running radar and stopped the driver for going 41 mph in a 25 mph zone. He smelled the odor of marijuana, searched the driver and passengers and found three grams inside the car. He issued the driver a ticket.

Holmes Beach

8/6, city construction code violation, 101 78th St. An officer responded to a report of people trimming sea grapes where he knew the city had put a stop work order.

He talked with the owner of the landscape company

to keep her cheerful disposition. Sara’s beauty and outgoing, friendly personality made this world a better place. She will be missed by many.

Sara’s parents are Roger Walton and Sharon Robinson. Her brother is Darin Robinson and her sister is Janella Pryce. Her grandmothers are Bola Walton and Eloise Holland. Her boyfriend is Jesse Candish and her beloved dog is Mr. Biscuit.

Sara danced her way to heaven on August 10, 2017.

Betty Helwig Yanger Betty Helwig Yanger, age 79, a native and life-long resident of Tampa and later Anna Maria, Fla., died Thursday, Aug. 10, 2017.

Betty Lu, as she was known to her life-long friends and family, was a graduate of Plant High School and the University of Tampa. She was an educator in Hillsborough County for more than 30 years, retiring in 2000 after serving as principal of Broward Elementary School. Betty lived the truth that “a teacher affects eternity” by bringing the spirit and the wondrous revelations of learning to thousands of young minds in the course of her career with enthusiasm and her characteristic grace. But retirement to Betty simply meant bringing her new blue Volkswagen Beetle and infectious love of learning to Anna Maria Island with husband, Bill, full-time, after spending 40 years of summers and holidays under the banyans, in the gardens and on the sand of the island.

She was a Director Emeritus of the Anna Maria Island Historical Society, serving on the board from 2003 and for a time as the director of its iconic museum on Pine Avenue. She was passionate about protecting the historical significance of Anna Ma-

THE SUN

25

and identified the property owner. The landscaper said the property owner hired him to do the job on a Sunday. The officer told him construction activity was illegal on Sunday. He took pictures and tried to contact a code enforcement officer to no avail. He told the landscaper to get rid of the trimmings in a legal manner and send his crew home.

8/6, theft, 6200 Holmes Boulevard. An officer responded to a theft of rental bikes and found one of them.

They arrested a juvenile who named another person in the crime.

8/5, DUI, 4400 Gulf Drive. The officer observed a driver crossing the line while, driving and stopped her. He observed her eyes were watery, her speech slurred and her breath smelled of alcohol. He asked where she was coming from and she said a local bar. He asked her how many drinks she had consumed and she said a couple. She agreed to a field sobriety test, which she failed. He arrested her.

8/5, alcohol violation, 4000 Gulf Drive. The officer observed two people having naked sex. They had a a bottle of rum and two cups and a lit incense candle nearby. He ticketed them for the alcohol and had them call for a ride home.

8/5, DUI, 5400 Gulf Drive. Police responded to an auto accident and noticed the driver at fault showed symptoms of inebriation. He agreed to a field sobriety test and did not pass. He was arrested.

8/6, noise and alcohol violations, 4700 Gulf Drive beach.

The officer responded to loud music on the beach and also found a beer that the subject was drinking.

She was given a citation for both offenses.

8/6, possession of marijuana, 3200 East Bay Drive. The offi cer searched the vehicle and found some marijuana.

The driver was arrested.

ria and was an outspoken champion of identifying, preserving and celebrating the unique character and charm of many of its original homes and buildings.

Her open invitation to islanders and visitors alike to share cool breezy evenings with Bill and her in her secret garden was a cherished ritual for so many.

Betty was preceded in death by her parents, George and Josephine Helwig, and her granddaughter, Rose Yanger. Survivors include her husband of 59 years, Bill; brother and sister-in-law, Griffin and Pat Helwig; daughter and son-in-law, Shay and Bill Rustam; son and daughter-in-law, Bill Yanger and Sherry McDonaugh; grandsons, Zachary Yanger and Martin McDonaugh; granddaughters, Rachel Yanger Munch (husband, Joshua Munch), Madeline and Sophie Rustam and Kelli McDonaugh; along with numerous cousins and extended family.

The cliche seems written with Betty in mind: she truly never met a stranger. Her smile was ever-present, her snappy wit was searing and timely, and her tenacity was renowned, particularly in recent years as she battled multiple system atrophy, defying all medical expectations and prognoses. Above all else, her husband Bill and her family were everything to her and she never shied from giving a simple and warm “I love you” to us all.

A memorial service was held at Palma Ceia Presbyterian Church, 3501 W. San Jose St., Tampa, on Saturday, Aug. 19. In lieu of flowers, Betty’s family requests donations be made to The Multiple System Atrophy Coalition in memory of Betty Yanger at: multiplesystematrophy.org or 9935-D Rea Road, #212, Charlotte, N.C. 28277.

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THE SUN

AUGUST 23, 2017

Island bridges in exhibit The free display includes photos and newspaper clippings from the library’s archives.

BY TOM VAUGHT SUN STAFF WRITER | tvaught@amisun.com

BRADENTON – The Manatee County Central Library in Bradenton is hosting a display entitled “The Bridges of Manatee County” through mid January, at 1301 Barcarrota Blvd.

The display celebrates the 60th anniversary of the Green Bridge over the Manatee River. The three bridges to Anna Maria Island also play a large part in the county’s history.

“When they opened the original Sunshine Skyway bridge in the mid 1950s, county officials anticipated more traffic to the area and they knew they would need to improve the infrastructure,” said David Breakfield, the information services librarian who put the display together.

“They decided to build a number of concrete bridges including the one on Manatee Avenue (Anna Maria Island Bridge), the Cortez Bridge, the bridge to Longboat Key (Longboat Pass Bridge) and the DeSoto Bridge, over the Manatee River.

“That’s why the bridges are similar ages,” he said.

“The county charged a fee to come onto the Island, and when they raised enough money to pay for the bridges, the fees went away.”

At present, the Florida Department of Transportation has plans to replace the Anna Maria Island drawbridge with a 65-foot clearance fixed-span and is mulling the replacement of the Cortez drawbridge with a fixed-span structure. The Longboat Pass drawbridge is due for a rehabilitation soon to correct structural problems.

The original Cortez Bridge was a wooden, one-lane structure with a turnstile section in the middle to let boats get through. It was the only bridge to the Island and businesses grew along Bridge Street in Bradenton Beach to accommodate visitors, especially beachgoers.

The display is free and the hours are 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday, noon to 8 p.m. Wednesday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Thursday and Friday and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday. The library’s phone number is 941-748-5555.

TOM VAUGHT | SUN

The bridges made the headlines in the 1950s.

AUGUST 23, 2017

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New officer introduced Bradenton Beach Police Chief Sam Speciale introduces Officer Alex Hurt to the City Commission and those in attendance at the Aug. 17, commission meeting. Hurt joined the police force six months ago. He has completed his field training and is now on active patrol. “You’ll see him out and about,” Speciale said.

joe hendricks | SUN

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THE SUN

REAL ESTATE

AUGUST 23, 2017

Stressless moving I

have two good friends who are planning a move, one out of state and one locally, and believe me the stress level is equally high. Moving is one of life’s major stressors right along with death of a loved one, divorce, major illness and job loss. But there are ways to make such a traumatic event easier if not actually positive.

For many years I worked in corporate relocation for the real estate company I was employed by. Needless to say, we had more than one transferee reduced to tears because the move was not what they wanted. Back then the trailing spouse, as we termed them, was a woman, but man or woman, if the move is not your choice, the stress multiplies 10-fold. The best way to deal with it is to accept the move with the right mental attitude, focusing on all the new experiences ahead and move on.

A good way to get comfortable with

Castles in the Sand Louise Bolger where you’re moving to is to do a lot of research. If you have school age children, that is the first place to begin.

Determine if they will be going to public or private schools and make your choice accordingly. Also get acquainted with the shopping venues and restaurants. By the end of moving day your family will be looking for food, and the next day you may be looking for new sheets and towels if that box somehow got lost.

It’s also a good idea to get the name and number of a reliable plumber, air conditioning and appliance repair company, just in case the inevitable happens

during the first week. Most important of all is to research and interview new medical professionals for you and your children. This is especially important for senior citizens who have accumulated a long list that needs to be replaced.

A good mental attitude is essential, even if you’re on board with the move.

There will be long lists of things that go wrong before you’re done, so planning is the first place to begin. Leaving things to the last minute is stressful in everyday life, but when you’re moving a household and a family, it can be the one thing that creates a war. Packing the good china while the moving truck is pulling in the driveway never has a good outcome for either you or the china.

And speaking about moving trucks, do yourself a favor and hire professional movers. I don’t care how big and strong your brother and his friends are, when you see them lifting your grandmother’s

antique chest your heart is guaranteed to stop.

Make a point of introducing yourself to your neighbors as soon as possible; their advice could be invaluable in the days ahead. And getting involved in the community, softball teams and your kid’s school PTO will get you comfortable in your new location faster than you can imagine. Finally, don’t forget to ask for help. The level of stress both before and after the move can be overwhelming, and family and friends are your best go to people.

Moving across the street or across the country is the same to the person experiencing the move; just roll with the punches and embrace the experience.

And to my two friends who are going through this, I have two words for you – "new restaurants.”

www.amisun.com

AUGUST 23, 2017

THE SUN

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WMFR commissioners discuss project progress Some WMFR projects move forward while the progress of others stalls for the district.

Randy Cooper said of the longawaited program. “This is a good thing for the community.”

BY KRISTIN SWAIN

Administration building sale

SUN STAFF WRITER | kswain@amisun.com

BRADENTON — Things are moving forward for West Manatee Fire Rescue district, for the most part.

Commissioners met Aug. 17 to discuss ongoing projects including the launch of the district’s nontransport advanced life support (ALS) service and the potential sale of the administration building.

ALS

Commissioners voted unanimously to pass a resolution approving a four-year business plan to launch the ALS service presented by Chief Tom Sousa. The service, which allows firefighters to provide the same care to patients as EMS workers without transport capabilities, is expected to be phased in over the next few years.

“It’s about time,” Commissioner

Sousa reported that so far, no offers have yet come in to purchase the 11,156 square foot administration building on Third Avenue West in Bradenton. The property currently houses the district’s administrative offices and commission chambers.

Commissioner Al Robinson, who’s leading the charge to sell the building due to the high cost of upkeep in relation to the small amount of WMFR administrative staff, said he’s in no hurry to entertain offers.

“We need to try to get the value out of it,” he said, adding that he hopes commissioners won’t jump at the first offer presented, if and when one arrives.

Commissioners voted to place the building for sale at the beginning of the year. It’s currently listed for $1,675,000. Robinson said the district has approximately $1,800,000

policy for public use of the building space for non-governmental entities.

Commissioner David Bishop said while the building is a public building, steps need to be taken to ensure the safety of those utilizing it, such as having a member of WMFR’s staff onsite any time the building is in use. Cooper suggested implementing a liability waiver.

One of Sousa’s suggestions was to charge a fee for building usage to offset cleaning costs.

A draft of the policy will be presented at a future meeting.

Strategic plan

Kristin Swain | Sun

Captain Ryan Moore, left, and Chief Tom Sousa, right, congratulate Firefighter Cameron Frazier Aug. 17 on his promotion to firefighter second class. invested in the property.

In the meantime, commissioners asked Sousa to develop a draft

Another topic of discussion was the draft of a new strategic plan.

Commissioners agreed to hold a work session prior to the September meeting to discuss the strategic plan in detail before voting on it. If commissioners choose to adopt the plan, Sousa said he will present it to the three Island cities at public meetings. A chance for the northwest Bradenton property owners in the district to view the plan and ask questions also will be scheduled.

30

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THE SUN

AUGUST 23, 2017

Cobb family visits historical museum

BY NANCY DEAL SPECIAL TO THE SUN

Descendants of Samuel Claude Cobb, grandson of one of the first Island homesteaders, recently gathered at the Anna Maria Island Historical Museum to celebrate his life and to return him for final internment to the island of his youth. Mrs. Marcia Cobb shared pictures, a bit of Cobb genealogy and a few stories about her late husband, who was named for his grandfather.

In 1895, the first Samuel Claude Cobb homesteaded 160 acres in what is now Holmes Beach and in 1907 established the Island’s first business – Cobb’s Marine Ways – which built and repaired boats into the 1970s. In 1902, the first Island post office was established in Samuel’s house. Cobb’s Corner included the Cobb house, the business, a bayou, a harbor, a natural channel to the bay and a dock.

The Cobb family has six generations of males with Samuel as a first or middle name. Homesteader Samuel Claude Cobb had two children – Louis Samuel Cobb and Anna Maria Cobb, who was the first child born on the Island. Louis had two children – Samuel

Nancy deal | submitted

Cobb family descendants pose in front of the museum display of a boat built by Samuel Cobb prior to 1936.

Claude Cobb and Louis Melvin “Humbug” Cobb.

Cobb relatives present at the museum included Susan Carol Cobb Hlavinka, of Springfield, Ky. Susan is the daughter of the second S.C. Cobb and his first wife, Charleen Austin, also from the Island. Susan, who inherited the true Cobb features – red hair and fair skin, was the only bloodline Cobb descendant to attend.

Daryl Osburn, of St. Petersburg, Fla., is

a niece by marriage. Mr. Cobb’s devoted step-daughters are Dawn Marie Cordero, of Lynnwood, Wash., and Tracy Ann Carter, of Davenport, Fla. Spouses present were Timothy Carter and Vidal Cordero. Grandchildren who participated in the museum scavenger hunt were Carmen and Emma Cordero and Justin Harold and Aaron “Bubba” Carter.

Mrs. Marcia Cobb shared some of grandson Samuel Cobb’s history and memories of the Island. He was born in

1936, eight years after brother Humbug, who was born June 18, 1928. In 1953, he left the Island at the age of 17 to join the Navy, lying about his age. He retired from the Navy in 1978, settled in Washington State and then worked for the Department of Defense at Puget Sound Naval Shipyard.

His favorite Island stories were about being on the Island when Esther Williams was here, traveling to Weeki Watchi and sailing his boat to go spear fishing. He loved to sail to little islands and camp out overnight. He was in the CAP (Civil Air Patrol) and taught water skiing.

He remembered climbing a watchtower in Holmes Beach with Elva (wife of Louis Samuel Cobb) to watch for planes during WWII. He said Elva remembered counting Jimmy Doolittle’s bombers as they left for war. MacDill Air Force Base was a training site for B26 pilots and the famous Doolittle was at MacDill to test the Martin B26 Marauder, but he flew the B25 bomber for the raid on Tokyo.

Samuel liked to tell stories of how he and his best friend, George Austin, met their future wives, and he shared some see cobb, page 31

AUGUST 23, 2017

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cobb: Family visits historical museum FROM PAGE 30

of the many adventures they had on the Island together. George and sister, Charleen, lived on the next street over from the Cobbs. Samuel knew Lordell Battersby, introduced her to George and the four became fast friends and eventually paired off in marriage.

Daryl Osburn remembered her favorite Samuel story of the four. One

Christmas one of their parents had given them money to buy a Christmas tree. They spent the money on themselves, so they cut off the top of one of Mr. Bean’s pine trees. Evidently, their deception worked. There was no word of any punishment.

The cousins, Daryl and Susan, had visited the Island many times in their youth, and, as they talked, shared com-

mon memories. They remembered the old Cortez Bridge and how, when the school bus crossed it, no other vehicle or even a pedestrian could be on the rickety old bridge.

Other remembrances include the post office in Samuel’s original homestead house with its stone walls, seeing the mail slots or boxes as they chased around the room, that there was a little

grocery store in part of the house, that Grandma Elva was one of the school bus drivers and going to the marina and riding in the boat.

Visitors to the museum can see the new outdoor Cobb boat display, which features the Daisey, a boat built by Samuel Cobb prior to 1936 and donated by the Florida Maritime Museum in Cortez.

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THE SUN

AUGUST 23, 2017

memorial: Prompts protests and debate FROM PAGE 1

the Bradenton Riverwalk and end at the memorial. Supporters were asked to protest for the removal of a memorial they believe does not signify unity and justice for all.

Members of the Donald Trump-supportive America First-Team Manatee organization then announced plans to assemble in support of the memorial.

County Commission Chair Betsy Benac called for Friday afternoon’s emergency meeting. Benac said Jan Greene requested the memorial be removed and placed in safekeeping until a new location could be found.

Greene is affiliated with the United Daughters of the Confederacy chapter that erected the statue. She also chairs the Manatee County Historical Commission.

One point of debate is that the memorial symbolizes a Confederacy that fought to preserve slavery, and that may not be an appropriate message to display near a public courthouse expected to offer equal rights to all who enter. An opposing point is that the War Between the States was fought primarily to preserve the right of states to govern themselves and that the Confederacy was not exclusively comprised of slave owners.

Donald White | Submitted

On Saturday afternoon, the memorial was encased in plywood.

The Gamble Plantation Historic Park in Ellenton was mentioned as a possible relocation point because museums and historic parks can provide a more encompassing historical perspective of the Civil War.

Monumental debate

Charles Smith, the commission’s only African American, said the memo-

sun: Moving forward FROM PAGE 1

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rial does not represent both sides of history. He expressed concerns about Confederate memorials being used as recruiting tools by white supremacists.

He also noted the Ku Klux Klan once killed an NAACP leader in Florida – Brevard County NAACP founder Harry T. Moore was killed by a bomb on Christmas Day, 1951.

“Men went to war because their leaders could not find a peaceful pathway,” Commissioner Priscilla Whisenant Trace said of the Civil War, wondering aloud if America is headed that way again.

She questioned the need to remove historic memorials, but acknowledged public safety concerns.

“We do not want another Charlottesville,” she said.

Commissioners Robin DiSabatino, Carol Whitmore and Steve Jonsson said they never knew the statue existed until recently.

“If we start removing that memorial the next step is that flag; then the next step is everything else that we hold dear,” DiSabatino said of the American flag hanging in the commission chambers.

During public input, America FirstTeam Manatee member Yaya Stafford said, “We would not be where we are

today had we not gone through that conflict. Erasing it doesn’t make it go away.”

David Finkelstein said, “Is it history if it only gives one side?”

Jack O’Keefe said the commission lacked the legal authority to remove a statue from a historical landmark.

County Planning Official John Osborne said Bradenton’s historic preservation ordinance pertains to the courthouse, but not the memorial.

Commissioners and public speakers requested the memorial be discussed again at a future meeting, and it was suggested Manatee County voters be asked to determine the memorial’s fate.

After nearly three hours of emotionally-charged debate, Smith made a motion for the memorial to be removed per Greene’s request, at an estimated cost of $10,000. Benac and Trace supported Smith’s motion. DiSabatino, Jonsson, Whitmore and Vanessa Baugh did not. The commission then voted 6-1 in favor covering the memorial, which Smith opposed because it leaves the memorial in place.

(Visit the Sun’s new website at www.amisun.com for a follow-up report on Monday night’s protests.)

AUGUST 23, 2017

www.amisun.com

TOWN CRIER Helping those who need it Turning Points Volunteer coordinator Cheryl Hedger will speak at the Wednesday, Aug. 23 meeting of JOY (Just Older Youth) at 11 a.m. in the Roser Community Church Fellowship Hall, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria.

Attendees are asked to bring brown bag lunch. Beverages and dessert are provided.

For more information call the church office at 941-778-0414, e-mail info@ roserchurch.com, go to www.roserchurch.com or Facebook at www. facebook/roserchurch.

The wonderful world of color Join the Island Branch Library’s Coloring Club that meets on Wednesday, Aug. 23, at noon at 5701 Marina Drive in Holmes Beach. Coloring isn’t just for kids anymore. It can ease stress and turn on your creative juices. It’s free.

Call 941-778-6341 for more information.

Checkmates meet If you never learned to play chess or if you’re a player but can’t find someone to play against, come to the Island Branch Library at 5701 Marina Drive in Holmes Beach for the Chess Club on Wednesday, Aug. 23, at 3 p.m. Bring your own chess kit or they will be provided. All ages and skill levels are welcome. Call 941-778-6341 for more information.

Books, food for seniors Senior Adventures members will have their end-of-month book sale and potluck lunch at Annie Silver Community Center, 103 23rd St. N., Bradenton

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Beach on Friday, Aug. 25, at 10 a.m.

Because of Labor Day, they will not meet on Aug. 31. For more information, call Kay Bell at 941-538-0945.

Mahjong mania The Island Branch Library at 5701 Marina Drive in Holmes Beach hosts mahjong at 1 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 25, and every Friday. If you’ve never played, you can learn. If you know how, you could get better. Come out and maybe make some new friends.

Call 941-778-6341 for more information.

Check your vital signs You could be alerted to possible stroke or other health problems by taking Prevention Plus Stroke and Vascular Screening offered Wednesday, Aug. 30, at The Center, 407 Magnolia, Anna Maria. The screenings are being offered at reduced prices. They include stroke/carotid ultrasound for $40, abdominal aortic aneurysm for $40, arterial disease test for $40, thyroid ultrasound for $40, abdominal ultrasound for $95 and heart scan-echocardiogram for $95 or all six tests for only $169. Blood tests, liver, cholesterol, PSA and TSH tests are also available.

To register, call 888-667-7587.

Center seeks volunteers The Center, of Anna Maria Island, needs volunteers to help carry out its programs. Those interested may join The Center’s Director of First Impressions, Amy Talucci, on the first Thursday of every month, from noon to 6 p.m. for more information and to attend an orientation or call The Center at 941-778-1908.

ECLIPSE: Solar eyefull FROM PAGE 1

quiet setting.”

While some could be seen using improvised cereal and other cardboard boxes to get a shadowy view, others were content to let their glasses to the work.

Mary Jarey and Marcia Keller, visiting from Chicago, watched through the spectacles at the outside dining tables, while John Assetta and Jeff Carver came in from Long Island.

“It gave us an excuse to come down and enjoy the Island,” Carver admitted.

One group had some students from Anna Maria Elementary School. Their parents decided to

take their kids out of school, disagreeing with the Manatee County School Board’s decision to keep students inside to avoid any of them from looking directly at the sun.

At Manatee Public Beach, Gordon Shook watched the eclipse with his grandkids, Juliana and Colton.

“We got the kids out of the Island school a little early so they could see it,” Gordon said. “We got these glasses (goggles) so they could see it.”

After they watched for a while, they took off for the really important stuff - ice cream at the concession stand - and a fun day at the beach.

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SPORTS

AUGUST 23, 2017

Battle for the top: The undefeated, defeated

BY MONICA SIMPSON SPECIAL TO THE SUN

The Island’s community center football field saw top-notch action between the seven adult co-ed teams on Tuesday and Thursday nights. Tuesday’s spectators saw two of the undefeated teams fall to their opponents, and Thursday night the third powerhouse team fell.

With Beach House Real Estate, Mason Martin, and Talucci Construction now each with losses, Team Beach Bums elevated in the ranks to finish the week in the third ranked position going into the last night of regular season games.

Team Avis proved Thursday night, with its defeat of the top ranked Talucci Construction, that having a full team hit the field can make or break a team. Struggling at the beginning of the season, Truly Nolen started finding its groove last week, also with a more developed roster.

Experiencing a roster change midweek due to a critical injury to team captain Don Purvis, Beach House Real Estate fell to the middle of the pack with two losses. Despite the hit to the team, Purvis continued to lead his team Tuesday night against Beach Bums.

Playing with only four players, including its injured quarterback, Beach House held on, fought hard and only lost by a touchdown.

Beach Bums started the scoring on its second offensive drive, with team captain Charles Buky finding a wide-open Jay Hoffmeister. Purvis forced Buky to launch the football for an incomplete pass leaving the score 6-0.

Getting the football back after Beach House Real Estate failed to score, Beach Bums’ Chad Woods was the next to score, as the defense covered Mike Gillum. Karri Stephens made the point after reception, widening the team’s lead to 13-0.

Purvis led his team to its first touchdown with 42 seconds left on the first half game clock. Even with the rushing pressure of Geoff Evans, Jon Moss took over the football, tossing it to Purvis, who ran it in for six points. With the missed extra point, the scoreboard displayed the 13-6 lead by Beach Bums.

Buky ended the first half with three snaps of the football and no points.

Holding the Beach House offense to three plays, Beach Bums took over on offense and quickly made its way down

monica simpson | SUN

Above, Beach House Real Estate’s Jon Moss takes to the air looking for a touchdown. Left, Mason Martin defenders make a Talucci sandwich as Nate Talucci works hard to gain yardage after the reception.

the football field. A completed pass to Woods as well as a strong run by Buky gave Hoffmeister his second scoring play. Crossing into the end zone, Woods took the score to 20-6.

The hard to stop Purvis-Moss combo that has played strong for several seasons put six points on the board for Beach House, along with the extra point by Emily Argeros.

With a seven-point lead, Beach Bums

made quick work of the field with a Woods touchdown, making moves past Moss and Argeros. The point after by Hoffmeister widened the Beach Bums lead to 14 points.

In the last five minutes of the game, Beach House Real Estate continued to work the ball, while Beach Bums continued to work the clock.

A single snap of the ball to Purvis put the ball into the solid hands of Moss

for another TD. In a game where extra points make winners and losers, the incomplete Beach House kept it down by eight points.

Returning the favor, the first pass by Buky on their next offensive possession allowed Woods to earn six points and Stephens to put up another point for their team.

The lit scoreboard blazed the score 34-19 as the Beach House players put on their offensive hats. The driving plays lead to seven points by Argeros.

Managing the clock with the score 34-26, Beach Bums took the field again trying to maintain the lead. Knowing that a touchdown and two point play after by Beach House would tie the ball game, Buky played smart letting the seconds click off the clock while making critical passes and advancing the football.

In the last play of the game with 2.4 seconds left on the clock, Purvis as the pass rusher grabbed Buky in a mutual admiration bear hug to end the game with the score 34-26.

The second game of the night pitted the other two undefeated teams against each other: Talucci Construction and Mason Martin. David Zaccagnino, returning on the field this season after several years away, proved to be the game MVP with four sacks in the game.

Despite the slow start on offense, and tough Mason Martin defense, Talucci Construction pulled out the three-point victory. Once again, missed extra points proved to be critical in the Mason Martin loss.

After a failed offensive run by Talucci Construction, Mason Martin took the football down the field for Caleb Roberts touchdown. The missed point after catch by Jim Ptak left the score 6-0.

Kevin Roman, Talucci Construction’s number three pick during the draft, scored the team’s first seven points in the game from targeted passes by quarterback and team captain Ray Gardner.

Six snaps of the football, with first down catches by Ptak and defensive penalties, Frank Agnelli ran the ball spinning past defenders into the end zone. The extra point by Roberts moved the score to 13-7.

With 46 seconds on the clock, Talucci Construction moved the ball down the length of the field with massive quick SEE BATTLE, PAGE 35

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AUGUST 23, 2017

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BATTLE: The undefeated, defeated FROM PAGE 34

paced runs by Gardner. The TD and point after by Roman put Talucci Construction up by one point.

The second half of play started with Mason Martin putting six points on the scoreboard with a wobbly but effective throw by Tim Shaughnessy to Agnelli.

Following the incomplete extra point pass, Gardner found Roman for his third touchdown catch after Gardner’s first down run. The sure hands of Dina Calvary caught the two-point conversion throw advancing the score to 19-22.

Team Mason Martin made a strong effort to score again and take the lead in the last minutes of the game. The Talucci Construction made critical stops to win the game and remain undefeated until Thursday night.

The first round of playoffs start this Thursday, with Talucci Construction earning the bye week. In the first game, Beach House Real Estate plays Moss Builders. Beach Bums takes on Avis in the second game Thursday. The final game of the night puts Mason Martin versus Truly Nolen.

The semifinal games will be played on August 31, ultimately leading to the much-anticipated championship game at 8:30 p.m. on Thurs., September 7.

Sun Scoreboard Tuesday, Aug. 15 Adult Co-Ed Flag Football

#4 Beach House Real Estate 26 (3-2) #3 Beach Bums 34 (3-2) #1 Talucci Construction 22 (4-1) #2 Mason Martin 19 (4-1) #7 Truly Nolen #5 Moss Builders

21 (0-6) 24 (2-3)

Thursday, August 17 Adult Co-Ed Flag Football

#2 Mason Martin 26 (4-1) #4 Beach House Real Estate 20 (3-2) #7 Truly Nolen #3 Beach Bums

21 (0-6) 33 (3-2)

#6 Avis 25 (2-3) #1 Talucci Construction 12 (4-1)

Beach House Real Estate's Mike Gillum, above, works to maneuver through Beach Bums traffic last Tuesday night. The two former college football players, Tim Shaughnessy and David Dunham go for the jump ball.

Below, fighting for position on the field to make the long pass reception, Mike Gillum and Chad Woods sail down the field.

MONICA SIMPSON | SUN

36

THE SUN

FUN IN THE SUN

Across 1 Pundit's piece 5 Schoolmarmish 9 Something to draw before bedtime 13 Skedaddles 15 Four-ring-logo company 16 Mélange 17 Many a Wilde play 18 *Health and prosperity 20 Sparkly accessory 22 Toughens 23 Pour like crazy 24 Glimmers 27 Miss identification 29 *It might require treatment with an EpiPen 31 Skinny swimmers 32 Loophole 33 Wolverine portrayer Jackman 34 Most reasonable 36 *Dramatic way to go out 38 Novelist Graham 41 Homer's son 42 Route word 45 Realizes 46 *Fabergé item auctioned for $9.6 million in 2002 48 Manipulate 49 Serious depression 51 Cubemaster Rubik 52 Exploratory spacecraft 54 Make rhapsodic 56 Plane measures ... and, literally, what can be seen in the answers to starred clues 59 Word before box or card 61 List catchall

62 Slender wind 63 Seamless transition 64 Remove from a manuscript 65 Road runner 66 Parks on a bus Down 1 Hiker's spray brand 2 Flat highland 3 Most spine-tingling 4 Put out the fire, pack up the tent, etc.

5 Offer from Rover 6 Line on a Québec map 7 Waiting at a light, perhaps 8 Eeyore creator 9 Dutch South African 10 Property recipient, in law 11 Adds holiday glitter to 12 Hardly a sharer 14 Msg. from the pulpit 19 Clear tables 21 Quick on the uptake 23 Tango need 25 __ school 26 Occupy

Answers to 08-16-17 Crossword Puzzle.

28 Ballpark fig.

30 Climb, in a way 31 Subj. including grammar 34 1964 Nobel Prize decliner 35 Kitty starter 36 "The Grand Budapest Hotel" director Anderson 37 Destructive agent 38 Serengeti grazer 39 Time to catch one's breath 40 Neverending 42 Reeling feeling 43 Like volcanic rock 44 Gone by 46 Sushi bar condiment 47 Study hall occupant, often 49 "Blue Bloods" network 50 Transplant to a new container 53 Look up and down 55 Fleur-de-__ 56 Get hitched 57 Neither partner 58 Understand 60 It may be iced

AUGUST 23, 2017

AUGUST 23, 2017

classified

ANNOUNCEMENTS THE BEST VOLUNTEER position on the island. The AMI Historical Museum needs docents and bread makers. Call Lynn at 813758-3234 or lbrennan47@ gmail.com 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).

BABY SITTER RED CROSS CERTIFIED baby sitter. Honor student.

Call or text Isabel 941-5457995

BOATS: PARTS & SERVICES & SALES ISLAND BOAT SALES Not Using Your Boat, Let's Sell It. "Business On A Hand Shake" I Also Buy Boats. Dave/ Owner 941-228-3489

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 TOTAL HOME SERVICE CLEANING : Residential, Commercial & Rentals.

Professional and Reliable. Call 941-756-4570 THOMPSON CLEANING SERVICE CommercialResidential-Marine.

Island Based Company.

Seasonal Deep Cleaning-Weekly-Occasional.

Call for Free Estimate.

941-281-4951

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 IMMEDIATE OPENINGS AT Jessie's Island Store 5424 Marina Dr, Holmes Beach.

Full time night cashier 4-5 nights per week. Part time cashier’s assistant 5pm9pm Friday and Saturday.

Apply in person, ask for Jimmy or April

FISHING CHARTERS CAPT. MAC GREGORY Fishing Charters. Full Day, Half Day, Night, Inshore & Near Shore. 941-809-5783 U.S.C.G. Certified/Insured

FOR SALE BE FIRST IN YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD! Bat House made of cedar. Hang in back yard. Bats eat 3000 bugs a night. $45. Call 941778-5345

GARAGE, MOVING, RUMMAGE & YARD SALES ROSER THRIFT SHOP WILL have a 1/2 price sale on all CLOTHING Tuesday 22nd -Thursday 31st.

Open 9:30 a.m. till 2p.m. , Saturday 10.am.-1p.m.

Donations preferred on Wednesdays 9-11a.m.

Closed September, donations can be dropped off Wednesdays a.m. 511 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, 941-7792733

HAULING SITE CLEAN-UP to trash outs we can handle it all.

Call us for your dumpsters/ trash needs today 941-7538772

HOME IMPROVEMENTS

COMMERCIAL SALES NEED 9300 Sq Ft WAREHOUSE to store your (CAR) collection?

Bradenton, near Airport. $619,000 Island Real Estate Ask Alan Galletto 941-232-2216

Call us today! 941-778-3986

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 941-7250073.

KERN CONSTRUCTION NEW Homes & Remodel.

Design/Build. Since 1968.

License # CRC1327296.

Call Jerry Kern 941-7781115 www.kernconstructioninc.com “HONEY DO" HOME Repairs & Handyman Services.

35 yrs experience. Painting, drywall, tile, woodwork. All tasks. Call 941-896-5256 or 941-807-5256 www.honeydohomerepairinc.com HANDYMAN. RETIRED ENGINEER. Free estimates.

“No job too Small”. Repairs, replacements, improvements, wall TV’s, shelves, cabinets, calking etc. Call Jim 941-448-7806 GET’R DONE DRYWALL, INC Specializing in Remodels & Repairs. Island Resident for 18 years. Call Neil Cell 941-962-1194 WALY PRECISION PAINTING: painting, drywall, stucco, and remodeling, commercial/residential, licensed & insured. Call 941-448-1928 or 941-4656324 www.WalyPrecisionPainting.us DECKOUT MASTER CARPENTER Everything Patio & Dock Decking Work Repair, Replace, Maintenance Work, Cleaning, Treatments, New Decks.

Also Handyman/Painting work to home or office.

Call RICHARD Bespoke Service 941-448-3571 Island Resident.

HOME SEVICES TOTAL HOME SERVICE. Residential/Commercial. Power Washing, Windows, Paver Sealing & Roof Cleaning. {Ask about your Senior Citizens Discount} Call 941-251-5948 or 941565-3931

LANDSCAPING & LAWN CARE

R. GAROFALO’S Interlocking brick pavers, driveways, patios, pool decks. Free estimates. Licensed & Insured.

Call Rafael 941-778-4823 or Veronik 941-526-7941

THE SUN

SHELL DELIVERED AND spread $55/yd. Hauling all kinds of gravel, mulch, top soil with free estimates. Call Larry at 941-795-7775, "shell phone" 941-720-0770

“WIZARD OF WALLS” Established 1980 Prompt quality service.

Paperhanging/removal Faux finishes. Interior painting. Mary Bell 941794-0455

STRAIGHT SHOT LANDSCAPE. Specializing in Old Florida Seashell driveways and scapes. Also Rock, Mulch, & Soil. Free estimates. Call Shark Mark 941-301-6067

PROFESSIONAL PAINTING SERVICES. Prompt & Reliable. Meticulous, Thorough, Quality Workmanship. Interior/Exterior. Wall paper removal..

Also minor repairs & carpentry. Free written detailed estimates. Bill Witaszek 941-307-9315

LOST & FOUND LOST DOG BLACK Chihuahua gray on face 14 years old. Call 941-705-5574.

LOST GOLD BRACELET with toggle clasp & charm with 50th anniversary engraved.

Sentimental value. Lost in vicinity of Palm Ave. in Anna Maria. Call 407-8730078.

LOST: LADIES AVIATOR sunglasses on Holmes Beach, 65th street. Wed 6/28 Sunset. Reward. 813546-3982 STOLEN FROM 217 PINE AVE. Art work from front of house. Multi-colored Fish.

REWARD! Call 813-2305900 LOST HEAVY GOLD CHAIN with Blue Stone near 47th Ave in Holmes Beach on December 26. REWARD! Call 908-963-1702 LOST MY GRANDMOTHER'S gold wedding band (initials inside and date) at Coquina Beach area. Reward.

Call 407-579-1621

MOVING & STORAGE MARTIN’S MOVING YOUR Island movers! Offering dependable, competitive rates. No hidden costs. 941-809-5777.

TWO MEN and a TRUCK. Movers who care. Local and Long distance. www. twomen.com Call 941-3591904. We sell boxes!

PAINTING & WALLCOVERING PAINT! PAINT! AND MORE 28 years of experienced interior/exterior custom painting. Pressure cleaning, drywall repairs and texture finishes. Many Island references. Please call Neil for free estimates.

941-812-0507

BAYSIDE COMMERCIAL PAINTING. David Padyani Call 941-565-9446 or Larry Zimmer 941-2248123 Licensed & Insured

PERSONAL SERVICES NEED MATH TUTOR? I am a Certified 6th-12th Grade Math Teacher with 30 years experience tutoring. Call 941-5244177

PETS ARE YOU WANTING to vacation and not worry if your pet is lonely. I will overnight in your home, so your animal can stay in his own environment. Home Sitting is also available.

Great References. Call Mary 941-405-2496 PET SITTING ON Island or Near By in home. References available. Call 941-524-0534 for info and scheduling.

POOL SERVICES

45

PRINTING CUSTOM DIGITAL PRINTING "Your printing dream to reality" Specializing in Dye sublimation Printing.

Graphic Design. Performance Active ware. Logo Design. Call Rhonda 330-550-4847

PROFESSIONAL PRESSURE & WINDOW WASHING AUTHORITY ONE CLEANING : Residential, Commercial, Construction and Vacation Rentals . Also available Power Washing, Roof Cleaning and Windows.

Call 941-251-5948

REAL ESTATE HOMES & CONDOS FOR SALE

FROM THE HIGH $200’s. Only minutes from the beach, this new active adult community is perfectly located just south of Manatee Ave, off Village Green Pkwy.

Perfectly designed, open 2BR or 3BR/2BA plus den & 2CG floor plans.

Luxurious amenities, pool, spa, gym, pickle ball and fenced-in dog park. HOA only $190/ month. Models open daily. Contact us 941254-3330 www.MirabellaFlorida.com 113 BEACH AVE 3BR/3BA Pool Home. Great location West of Gulf Drive with Direct beach access! $1,055,000 Call Charles Buky Coldwell Banker 941228-6086

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

CANAL FRONT HOMES Holmes Bch - Key Royale GULF FRONT CONDOS Gulf Place, La Casa L’Plage, Waters Edge & MORE. Island Real Estate ASK Alan Galletto 941-232-2216

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

VIVE LA FRANCE. Visiter Tout Les Courtages De Anna Maria et Bradenton. Avec Robert, Agent Immobilier, Membre Du Manatee Listing Service (MLS). Robert@gulfbayrealty.com 941-730-1291 cell. Gulfbay Realty of A.M, Inc.

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REAL ESTATE HOMES & CONDOS FOR SALE SLIGHTLY OFF THE ISLAND. 3BR/2BA completely renovated lake house, five miles from the beach. No Condo/HOA Fees, No Deed Restrictions, No Traffic. $334,900. www.690932nd.com. For Sale By Owner. 941-795-5225

RENTALS: ANNUAL BRADENTON: 1BR/2BA upstairs condo on 75th St. near St. Peter & Paul . Water, sewer basic cable incl. $900mo $900 security dep. $100 application fee on site.

Application approval required. 2-3 bedroom executive level townhouse in gated community with Bayview, 2 car garage, private elevator, treetop loft , Almost 2200 S/F. Many amenities including kayaks, pools, workout center, restaurant and bar all on site. Application approval required.Ask for Ed 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 junew@ islandreal.com – 941-3451295 - Island Real Estate of Anna Maria Island, Inc.

Call us today! 941-778-3986

2BR/2BA/1 CAR GARAGEsingle family home. $1400/ mo annual lease. Cortez area. 2BR/2BA furnished condo at West Bay Cove.

Annual lease $1600/mo.

Call A Paradise 941-7784800 Annual Rentals- Holmes Beach 2BR/1.5BA, carport, storage, W/D hookups $1,650/mo. No Pets, Non-Smoking. Call Fran Maxon Real Estate for details 941-778-2307. {WEST BRADENTON, AT VILLAGE GREEN:} Private Villa with spectacular lake views. 2 beds/2 baths, over 2100 SF living area with all new paint, flooring and 2 car garage. Villa is fully applianced (washer/dryer too) and unfurnished. Over 55 gated community, no pets, {annual lease only} at $1895/mo. Please call Jim with questions at 781-6032861 or Matt Pertosoff at www.choosegulfcoast.com at 941-782-1559.

ANNUAL HOLMES BEACH 2BR/2BA. Steps to Beach & Shops includes Dishwasher, Washer/Dryer trash. No Smoking/No Pets $1695/ mo + utilities. First, Last & Security. Call 860-9223857

TWO STORY 2BR/2BA Townhouse in Bradenton Beach. Large master bedroom w/ large Jacuzzi bath tub, separate shower. Steps to Beach. View of Gulf & Bay. Large deck. Washer/ Dryer, Parking for 3 cars.

Available Now. $1800/ mo Call 941-782-8556 ANNUAL RENTAL Anna Maria City, 2BR/2BA half duplex, totally remodeled, unfurnished. NO PETS! $1,500/mo - 1st, last, and security req'd. Call Sato Real Estate, Inc. at 941778-7200 or email monica@satorealestate. com

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-$800/ wk Redekercondos.com 941-704-7525 or 941-7781915

AUGUST 23, 2017

SUMMER WEEKLY RENTALS Available: 2BR/1BA Gulf front from $1,100 per week. 2BR with sleeping loft Bay Front from $1,100 per week, 4BR/3BA Bayside from $1,450 per week. No pools. 2018 SEASONAL RENTALS Available: 2BR/1BA Gulf front from $3,850 per month, 2BR with sleeping loft from $3,850 per month. Three month minimum. Horizon Realty of Anna Maria 941-778-0426 kringco@ tampabay.rr.com NORTH SHORE DRIVE, Anna Maria. 3BR/2BA Seasonal Rental across the street from Gulf.

Heated Pool.

AMIRENTAL.com GREAT SUMMER RATES! Weekly, Monthly.

3BR/2BA NW Bradenton. Call Grace 941-2012190

TRANSPORTATION AMI TAXI metered-on-callcards accepted. Airport: Tampa $95, Sarasota $40, Clearwater $85, Orlando $165. Call 800-301-4816. amitaxi4u@gmail.com, www.amitaxi.com

ANYTIME TRANSPORTATION to all airports, appointments, casino, cruises, etc. Tampa $60. Sarasota $30. Pets welcome. Very dependable. Reasonable rates. Contact Jeanne.

941-779-5095 ADMIRAL TOWN CAR Professional chauffeur, taxi prices! Airports (1@ $75, 10 $150 to Tampa), Appointments anywhere.

Credit cards accepted. Phil 941-320-1120 admiraltowncar@gmail.com, Licensed & Insured ROGER'S AIRPORT SERVICE. Tampa, St. Pete/ Clearwater, Sarasota/ Bradenton. Call Roger 941773-1469

www.amisun.com

AUGUST 23, 2017

business & service directory computer service

home improvement

THE SUN

Call today to place your ad: 941-778-3986 movers

HAULING

painting

home improvement

transportation HOME SITTING / PET SITTING

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40

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www.amisun.com

AUGUST 23, 2017

Vacation Rentals • Sales • Property Management

TeamDuncan.com • 941.779.0304

310 Pine Avenue Anna Maria, FL 34216