Anna Maria Island Sun December 21, 2016

FREE

VOL 17 No. 10

December 21, 2016

Classic caroling TOM VAUGHT | SUN

The Dickens Carolers brought a classic performance to Christmas on Bridge Street. See more photos on Page 35.

Adopting Christmas A newly-expanded Island family will celebrate its first Christmas together.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT

(For the safety of the children, their nicknames were used in this story rather than their real names) HOLMES BEACH – Christmas will have a much deeper meaning this year for Holmes Beach residents Amanda Escobio and Dan Ryan because of the pending adoption of the two young children now living with them.

Six weeks ago, the sister and brother tandem of eight-year old “Lily” and six-year old “Lizard” left the group home they were

INSIDE NEWS OPINION Sun survey outdoors football fever real estate Obits crossword

4 6 7 30, 31 & 33 20-21 40-46 34 52

living in and moved in with Escobio and Ryan.

Lily and Lizard’s biological parents were not able to complete the court-ordered drug rehab and other requirements during the two years the kids have been in the system, and their parental rights were terminated in June. Working with the Safe Child Coalition, Escobio and Ryan can formally file for adoption in January.

“It’s going to be a very merry Christmas this year and we’re looking forward to the future,” Ryan said.

“Christmas is going to be a lot merrier. They’re the best gift ever. Santa hasn’t had kids to see adoption, page 23

Bike sharing

program activated on the Island. 4

Anna Maria Island, Florida

Maro aces card cutting ceremony The new commissioner will participate in her first city meeting on Dec. 27.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

joe hendricks | SUN

Amanda Escobio and Dan Ryan share a holiday hug with their soon to be adopted children Lily and Lizard.

BRADENTON BEACH – Marilyn Maro won the Ward 2 City Commission seat last week when she pulled the ace of spades that bested the two of spades drawn by fellow nominee Anne Leister.

Cutting the deck for high cards during the special commission meeting on Tuesday, Dec. 13, was required because the four sitting commission members on two previous occasions were deadlocked in a 2-2 tie when trying to trying to reach majority consensus on filling the vacant commission seat formerly held by three-term commissioner Ed Straight. Mayor Bill see CARDS, page 48

Holmes Beach Officer Rob Velardi retires after 30 years. 5

Seasonal services at Island churches. 9

The Island’s award-winning weekly newspaper

www.amisun.com

2 THE SUN

www.amisun.com

DECEMBER 21, 2016

www.amisun.com

DECEMBER 21, 2016

THE SUN

3

Grossman appointed to commission seat The seat was vacated when Grossman failed to qualify for reelection in June.

BY PAT COPELAND SUN STAFF WRITER | pcopeland@amisun.com

HOLMES BEACH – Former Commissioner Marvin Grossman last week was appointed to the commission seat vacated when he failed to qualify for reelection in the fall.

Grossman, who served four years on the commission, had one challenger for the seat Dan Diggins, who has been in commercial aviation as an engineer, a commercial pilot, an air traffic controller and an air safety investigator and is a newcomer to elected office.

Prior to the appointment resident Nancy Deal and Barbara Hines spoke in favor of Grossman.

“He is dedicated to the preservation of this community,” Deal said. “He brings good humor, creativity and hard working dedication.”

Hines said, “He’s the heart of this commission. He is always there when somebody needs him.”

Diggins said he offered his services and has “quite a bit of experience in high levels

of government, both in the U.S. and abroad. I think my skill set experience would help the city a lot. I’d be a great advocate for the city, both on the Island and to the county and state and other jurisdictions.”

Grossman said, “It has been my pleasure to work with you. Seldom do you get to accomplish lots of the things you wanted. I look back to the election four years ago, and I had a list of all the things we all wanted to do.

“It’s amazing almost all of it is being done.

I’d like the opportunity it finish it up.”

Commissioners then approved Grossman’s appointment unanimously.

Commissioner Jean Peelen thanked Diggins for taking an interest in the position and said, “I am grateful that someone thinks it’s worthy to be on this commission other than us. I want to say a word of appreciation for putting himself out there, which is not easy.”

Chair Judy Titsworth agreed and said, “I am very impressed with his credentials, and I think his heart is in the right place and added that she hopes he will run for a commission seat in the future.

Grossman will serve until the next election in November 2017.

PAT COPELAND | SUN

City Clerk Stacey Johnston swears in Commissioner Marvin Grossman.

4 THE SUN

ISLAND NEWS

in brief

Beautification board needs members The Holmes Beach Parks and Beautification Advisory Board is seeking two alternates for two-year terms. This is a great way to meet other residents, have your voice heard and make recommendations about your city.

The board meets the first Wednesday of each month from October through May at 10 a.m. Members recommend beautification projects around the city and secure sponsors for Adopt-a-Spot locations and monitor the sites.

If interested, call, stop in to city hall at 5801 Marina Drive or download a form on the city’s website at www. holmesbeachfl.org under Miscellaneous Forms. Submit applications no later than Jan. 16, for review and commission appointment soon thereafter. For information, call 941-508-5800, ext. 221.

New Year’s Eve noise extension Earlier this month, the Bradenton Beach City Commission unanimously approved a noise ordinance extension that will allow business establishments to have live music until 1 a.m. on New Year’s Eve. The noise ordinance usually prohibits amplified music in open-air establishments after 10 p.m. The request was submitted by Police Chief Sam Speciale, who in a memo to Mayor Bill Shearon wrote, “I believe that by allowing this extension the police department will not have to respond to calls that would waste both time and resources. This request will just be for amplified music or ambient noise, but will not include the use of fireworks, unless previously approved by the commission.”

Manatee County calendars available This week Manatee County began distributing 30,000 of its popular annual wall calendars. This year’s calendar, themed “Birds of Flight,” features beautiful images of roseate spoonbills, pelicans, herons and aquatic birds that call Manatee County home.

The 12 photos were selected from among hundreds submitted as part of the Parks and Natural Resources Department annual photography contest that challenged local photographers to submit pictures of landscapes, wildlife and people enjoying Manatee County’s natural preserves.

People may pick up a calendar at the following locations: • The county administration building; • The county’s six public libraries; • City halls and county sheriff’s and tax collector’s offices; • G.T. Bray Recreation Center; • County public works and utilities buildings; • At the county’s booth at the county fair.

CORRECTION After the Anna Maria Commission rendered a recent decision that upheld the Privateers’ decision to exclude Rick Maddox and his float from the Christmas parade, Maddox said, “Perhaps we’ll have a civic group that doesn’t have an axe to grind.” It was mistakenly reported that his final comment pertained to potential legal action.

Visit our website, www.amisun.com.

Scan this code with your smartphone to go there.

DECEMBER 21, 2016

Bike share program activated

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

The Bike Share AMI partnership has launched a new bike share initiative aimed at providing ecofriendly alternative transportation solutions for Island residents and visitors.

The founding partners of this new service are The Center of Anna Maria Island, Beach Bums AMI and Adventure Away. The service now features four bike share racks where the bright yellow Bike AMI bikes can be rented for $20 a day.

Rented bikes can be picked up and dropped off any of the four hub locations. One of the bike share hubs is located at The Center at 407 Magnolia Ave. in Anna Maria. The partnership’s first sponsored bike share location is outside the offices of Mike Norman Real Estate and Vacation Rentals, at 3101 Gulf Dr. in Holmes Beach. A third hub is located Adventure Away’s booking office at 102 Bridge St. in Bradenton Beach. There is also an off-island hub located at the AMI Adventure Rental Center at 12208 Cortez Road in Cortez..

A press release issued by Julie Kirkwood says the hub in Cortez is an ideal location for those who wish to park their cars and use

joe hendricks | SUN

One of the three Bike Share AMI rental hubs is located outside The Center in Anna Maria. a bike share bike to get on and around the Island.

When dropping bikes off at a location other than the original rental point, Island riders can use the free trolley to another desired location on the Island. The Monkey Bus and some of the other local shuttle services also travel over the Cortez Bridge to the off-Island hub in Cortez.

“Bike Share AMI is a part of broader ongoing efforts of Ride AMI Alternative Transportation Solutions to encourage and grow more care-free and alternative transportation in and around Anna Maria Island,” the press release notes.

A detailed map of the bike hub

locations can be viewed at www. bikeshareami.com, where rentals can also be booked. Bikes can also be rented by calling The Center during regular hours at 941-7781908 or by calling Adventure Away at 1-844-522-6654 “Bike Share AMI Partnership is continuing to look for additional sponsors to help grow and expand the bike share program as well as the general promotion of safe and healthy biking efforts in and around Anna Maria Island,” the press release says.

Bike Share AMI also has a GoFundMe page where donations can be made to assist the bike share program.

Commissioner raises noise issue Commissioners asked if officers should use the decibel meter more often.

BY PAT COPELAND SUN STAFF WRITER | pcopeland@amisun.com

HOLMES BEACH – Commissioner Jean Peelen asked Police Chief Bill Tokajer at last week’s meeting about noise complaints and whether officer discretion or the decibel meter is used as the measurement when a complaint is received.

“The code has two criteria – decibels and the seven criteria the officer uses for decision making,” Tokajer explained.

The seven criteria are: • The volume of the noise;

• The intensity of the noise; • Whether the nature of the noise is usual or unusual; • The volume and intensity of the ambient noise, if any; • The proximity of the noise to residential sleeping facilities; • The time of the day or night the noise occurs; • The duration of the noise.

“The criteria don’t have to do with how loud is the noise is,” Peelen pointed out.

Tokajer said officers use the decibel meter on repeat complaints, but the city has only one decibel meter and they are costly at $3,000 each and $580 to calibrate each year.

“We don’t have that many noise complaints that would warrant us to

The criteria don’t have to do with how loud the noise is.”

Jane Peelen Commissioner buy one for every officer,” he said.

“When the officers need one, they just drive by the police department and get it.”

He said he would instruct officers to use the decibel meter as often as possible.

www.amisun.com

DECEMBER 21, 2016

THE SUN

5

Officer Rob Velardi to retire after 30 years Velardi was named Officer of the Year twice – in 1994 and 1998.

BY PAT COPELAND SUN STAFF WRITER | pcopeland@amisun.com

HOLMES BEACH – Police Chief Bill Tokajer recognized Officer Rob Velardi, who has served the city for 30 years and plans to retire on Jan. 2, 2017.

At last week’s city commission meeting, Tokajer said Velardi “was recognized as Officer of the Year twice in 1994 and 1998 and has received commendations including helping thwart an attempted homicide in 2014.

“When I went through his file, it is so thick with citizen comments and accolades for the job he’s done. This community has truly embraced and loved Rob as well as we have as a police department.

He will truly be missed.”

Mayor Bob Johnson pre-

Pat Copeland | Sun

From left, Holmes Beach Police Chief Bill Tokajer and Mayor Bob Johnson present retiring Officer Rob Velardi with a plaque as his wife, Angela, looks on. sented Velardi with a plaque that read, “The city of Holmes Beach sincerely thanks Officer Rob Velardi for 30 years of dedicated service to the city and citizens.”

‘It’s a simple and direct message to a fantastic guy,” Johnson said. “The community spirit that he exudes through the community and this organization is just tremendous

from what I’ve seen in my two years here.

“I’ve seen the reactions, and they are fabulous. We shall miss you tremendously.

Thanks you for everything

you’ve done for this city, the citizens and your fellow officers.”

“Thirty years has really gone quickly,” Velardi said. “Thank you so much to my family and police family for being here.

It really means a lot. This city is probably the finest small city I could ever have gotten involved with.

“It’s been my privilege to serve the citizens of Holmes Beach for all these years. It’s really like a family here “Most notably in the last couple years I’ve really needed everybody. I’ve had some health issues, and the people here have been behind me 100 percent. I’ll never forget it.

Thank you very much.”

He also thanked his family and “most of all, the love of my life, my beautiful wife, Angela, for 35 years. She has nursed me and supported me and without her I would not be here.”

6 THE SUN

OPINIOn

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

Like us on our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/AnnaMariaIslandSun

DECEMBER 21, 2016

EDITORIAL Happy holidays I wait for Christmas all year all year long. It must be the child in me that gets so excited as the holiday approaches. The same child that wishes on stars, would follow Peter Pan to Never Never Land and longed to join the circus and become a clown. The same child that still believes in Santa even though I was Santa to my children and watched his magic and wonder reflected in the looks of surprise and cries of joy from them on Christmas morning.

I decorate the house with fragrant fir branches and the holiday fragrance fills the air. The tree sparkles with lights that bubble and twinkle and ornaments – the most precious ones passed down by parents, made by children and grandchildren and collected through the years to commemorate special times and events.

The season is filled with memories of special holidays of the past and making memories for the future. It is a time of joy and love all rolled into a surprise package to be carefully opened and shared with friends and loved ones. It is a time of family gatherings and continuing the traditions that make it special to us.

All of us from The Sun wish you happy holidays.

Pat Copeland

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Colossal mistake

In a bloody airing of internal communication problems, cavalier attitudes and potential conflicts of interests; the Board of County Commissioners voted 4 to 3 to implement a nationwide search for a new county administrator. What a colossal mistake!

All commissioners agreed Mr. Hunzeker had done an admirable job of getting through some very tough times. Like the second Great Depression, budget shortfalls, 300 employee layoffs and the half-cent sales tax initiative.

Several stated Mr. Hunzeker had professed a desire to retire at contract’s end. Despite his statement to the contrary before the BOCC. Business leaders and three former commissioners stood in support of him.

Clearly, this vendetta reeked of lack of communication and mutual respect – not capability. What more does a county administrator have to do? It could have been a mid-course correction with

learning by all making the county stronger. Instead, all has been written off to start anew.

Former commissioner Bustle urged commissioners to look at the issues in a workshop. Sage advice not followed. Now a small problem has become a conundrum. Rational consideration giving way to emotion without any definition of problems faced, facts and resolution alternatives.

Enough to make not only the transition difficult, but the search itself.

Given this vote of no confidence, how will BOCC staunch mass defections of staff and loss of morale by not even bothering to look internally first? The business community is quite concerned.

In chairing the new search, Commissioner Benac puts a brave face on it, despite trying to avoid this fiasco with her vote and that of Commissioners Whitmore and Trace. I am reminded of the 49er’s amazing championship run during Jim Harbaugh’s coaching tenure

Take The Sun Survey on Page 7. until disagreements with management arose. Look at the 49ers now.

Pray Manatee County doesn’t see the same fate.

Katherine Edwards Bradenton

Fix the real problems With all the letters about noise – all minor issues – what about fixing our electric power grid, water pressure and air quality problems (too much diesel soot coming in from the Gulf)? For the former, the voltage drop is so severe when everybody else cooks, we don’t even pop any popcorn before 21:00 p.m. at night because less than one half of the package pops open. For the latter, the water availability is beginning to be a problem most of the day. These are issues that should be in the forefront of our dwindling resident population.

Anton Rappold Anna Maria

www.amisun.com

DECEMBER 21, 2016

THE SUN

the sun survey

on the agenda

PREVIOUS QUESTION: Do you think the tourist tax should be used for infrastructure and extra law enforcement on the Island?

Anna Maria

27%

No, if they pay for that, the county will expand its power over the Island cities.

10005 Gulf Drive.

12/22: City Commission meeting, 6 p.m.

For information, call 7086130.

Bradenton Beach 107 Gulf Drive N.

12/21: Planning and Zoning Board, 1 p.m.

12/28: Planning and Zoning Board, 1 p.m.

For information, call 7781005.

Holmes Beach 5801 Marina Drive.

None scheduled For information, call 708-5800.

7

Holiday schedule

The administrative offices of the West Manatee Fire & Rescue District and the cities of Anna Maria, Bradenton Beach and Holmes Beach will be closed Dec. 23 and 26 and Jan. 2. The Island Branch Library will close on Dec. 23 and 24. The Tingley Memorial Library will close on Dec. 23, 24 and 31.

There will be no solid waste, recycling or yard waste collections by Waste Management of Waste Pro on Dec. 26 or Jan. 2. All collections will be one day later for the remainder of those weeks.

mark your calendar Note: Events are free unless indicated.

73%

Yes, the residents shouldn't have to bear the expense.

Wednesday Dec. 21

THIS WEEK’S SURVEY All I want for • A winning lottery Christmas is: ticket • My two front teeth • To wake up and learn • World peace that Donald Trump is not president.

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 Publishers Mike Field Maggie Field Editor/CEO Mike Field Layout Ricardo Fonseca Reporters Pat Copeland Cindy Lane

Tom Vaught Joe Hendricks

Ad assistant Chris Boniberger

Accounting John Reitz

Columnists Louise Bolger

Classified ads Bob Alexander

Outdoors editor Rusty Chinnis

Graphics Elaine Stroili Ricardo Fonseca

Distribution Bob Alexander Keith Isner Tony McNulty

Ad director Chantelle Lewin

Web/Social media Jocelyn V. Greene Cindy Lane

Contributors Steve Borggren Monica Simpson Rusty Chinnis

Movement, muscles and more, Aging in Paradise Resource Center, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, second floor, 8 to 9 a.m., $8 per class. Reserve to maryannbrady@aginginparadise.org or 941-383-6493.

Mindfulness in nature silence stroll, Robinson Preserve, 99th Street Northwest and 17th Avenue Northwest, Bradenton, 9 to 11 a.m.

Reserve to 941-748-4501, ext. 6039.

Roser-Robics chair-based exercise class, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, 9:30 a.m. Bring two cans of fruit of equal size and weight.

Early Settler’s Bread for sale, AMI Historical Museum, 402 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., $5.

Beach Market, Coquina Beach, Bradenton Beach, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Einstein’s Circle discussions, The Center of AMI, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria, 11 a.m.

Gentle chair yoga, Anna Maria Island Art League, 5312 Holmes Blvd., Holmes Beach, noon to 12:45 p.m. $12. Space limited.

Thursday Dec. 22

Boomer Boot camp, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, 10 to 11 a.m. One class, $15; five classes, $65;

10 classes, $100.

Zumba for beginners, Aging in Paradise Resource Center, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, second floor, 10 to 10:45 a.m., $10 per class. Reserve to maryannbrady@aginginparadise. org or 941-383-6493.

American contract bridge league, open pairs duplicate bridge games, Aging in Paradise Resource Center, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, second floor, 1 to 4 p.m., $10 per game with snacks included.

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

Jam in the sand, Manatee Beach, 4000 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, 5 to 8 p.m.

Friday Dec. 23

Movement, muscles and more, Aging in Paradise Resource Center, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, second floor, 8 to 9 a.m., $8 per class. Reserve to maryannbrady@aginginparadise.org or 941-383-6493.

Bridge beginners/refresher class, 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. RSVP to maryannbrady@aginginparadise.org or 941-383-6493.

Roser-Robics chair-based exercise class, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna see CALENDAR, page 48

8 THE SUN

www.amisun.com

DECEMBER 21, 2016

www.amisun.com

DECEMBER 21, 2016

THE SUN

9

Churches offer seasonal services

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

ANNA MARIA ISLAND – As Christmas nears, the Island’s churches prepare to celebrate the birth of Christ.

They will likely see some visitors, in addition to their regular worshippers.

Here is a rundown on activities for each church. Since Christmas falls on a Sunday this year, some churches offer the regular service.

• CrossPointe Fellowship, Rev, Ed Moss, 8605 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, 941-778-

0719: Christmas Day, 9 a.m. service.

• Episcopal Church of the Annunciation, Rev. Matthew Grunfeld, 4408 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, 941-778-1638: Christmas Eve, 5 p.m., family Eucharist with music; 10:30 p.m., carol sing; 11 p.m., Festival Eucharist with music.

Christmas Day, 9 a.m., Holy Eucharist.

• Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, Rev. Rosemary Backer, 6608 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 941-778-1813: Christmas Eve, 7 and 10:30 p.m., carols, candlelight and communion. Christmas Day, 9:30 a.m., worship; 10:30 a.m.,

fellowship.

• Harvey Memorial Community Church, Rev. Stephen King, 300 Church St., Bradenton Beach, 941-7791912: Christmas Eve, 5 p.m. service; no service Christmas Day. • Roser Memorial Community Church, Rev. Dr. Bob O’Keef, 512 Pine Ave., 941-778-0414: Christmas Eve, 5:30 p.m. Family service in the sanctuary with Christmas carols and special music from the Joyful Noise Children’s Choir. All children will receive a gift.

The service will end with the singing

of “Silent Night” and the Passing of the Light; 9 p.m. traditional service in the sanctuary with a special musical performance. Christmas Day, 9 a.m., worship and brunch. RSVP required for the brunch.

• St. Bernard Catholic Church, Father Micheal Mullen, 248 S. Harbor Drive, Holmes Beach, 941-778-4769: Christmas Eve, Mass at 4 and 10 p.m. with Christmas Carols at 9:30 p.m.; Christmas Day, Mass at 8:30 and 10:30 a.m.

Code amendment eliminates generators Swimming pools can now be built in setback areas if certain conditions are met.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

Chantelle Lewin | Sun

The doctor is in Sean Murphy, proprietor, welcomes you to The Doctor’s Office, 5312B Holmes Blvd., Holmes Beach, from 5 p.m. until midnight daily except Christmas. Chefs at the Beach Bistro and Eat Here have collaborated on the cosmopolitan menu served along with craft cocktails prescribed for a variety of aliments and sure to nurse you back to health.

Anna Maria Commission preview The Thursday, Dec. 22, Anna Maria City Commission meeting will begin at 6 p.m. and feature the presentation of the Citizen of the Year award to Jack Brennan. The commission will discuss a variance request for 517 Villa Rosa Way that pertains to heating and air conditioning equipment that was installed in the side yard setback, which is prohibited. City Planner Bruce McLaughlin recommends the variance request be denied. McLaughlin is requesting the replat of one lot at 826 A South Bay Blvd. be continued to a later date and he will also present an ordinance that amends the comprehensive plan with respect to historic preservation, height limits, stormwater management and telecommunications facilities. Mayor Dan Murphy will present to the commission with his 10-year plan for capital improvements and expenditures. The agenda and meeting packet can be downloaded at www.cityofannamaria.com.

ANNA MARIA – The city commission recently adopted a series of land development code (LDC) amendments, one of which will eliminate generator noise associated with construction sites in residential neighborhoods.

The Anna Maria Commission adopted the code amendments contained in Ordinance 16-824 on second and final reading during its Dec. 8 meeting.

The amendments were first discussed at the Nov. 10 meeting.

The amended ordinance will prohibit the use of joe hendricks | SUN generators on future construction projects.

City Planner Bruce McLaughlin discusses the land development “Temporary utility service, which is protected by code amendments with city commissioners. telephone pole or limited receptacles, must be available for all construction sites unless the construcbecause it was not referenced in the ordinance title tion is of a nature that no power is required,” the and was not included in the required advertising ordinance states. that is part of the ordinance adoption process.

“Generators were an issue. Now it’s crystal “We do require a staging plan from a contractor clear you can’t have a generator and you need a that shows where materials will be stored, where temporary utility connection,” City Planner Bruce trash will be stored and where employees will park.

McLaughlin told the commission.

We also have a bond from the contractor for right Contractors also will be required to file a notice of way repairs to any damages to the right of way of commencement with the Manatee County Clerk during construction,” McLaughlin said. of the Court when applying for city-issued buildMcLaughlin told the commission that more ing permits. The county’s notice of commencement changes were coming, and the next round of form requires the name and address of the property changes might provide the opportunity to discuss owner or lessee and a description of the interest in potential construction site parking requirements. the property. The form also requires the name, ad“There’s a lot of room for improvement in our dress and phone number of the contractor, inforcode. There will certainly be a major rewrite commation pertaining to the project’s surety bond and ing to you in time. It’s likely there will be some information on the lender, if there is one. additional interim amendments such as this one During Dec. 8 meeting, Commissioner Dale coming to you,” he said.

Woodland asked McLaughlin if any new language The amended ordinance now allows swimming was being added to the code that addressed parking pools to be placed in the required setback areas if requirements for contractors and subcontractors. certain conditions are met. This had been prohib“We have a lot of problems on new construction ited in the past. with parking and trucks tearing up the right of way.

“Construction of a swimming pool on a lot where Is there an opportunity while we’re doing this to the structure does not meet the yard or setback remake any improvements?” Woodland asked. quirements in the zoning district may be permitted The existing ordinance language says, “All offif the neighboring property owner formally constreet parking shall comply with the city’s ordisents to the construction; or the property owner can nances and the laws of the state and regulations of demonstrate to city staff by means of construction all applicable governmental agencies.” staging and management plan that the construction McLaughlin said it was too late in the process of the pool will not create a nuisance to adjacent to insert new language that addressed parking property owners,” the new ordinance states.

10 THE SUN

www.amisun.com

DECEMBER 21, 2016

Ugly Grouper revised site plan approved The site plan allows for replacement of the mobile kitchen with a walk in cooler.

BY PAT COPELAND SUN STAFF WRITER | pcopeland@amisun.com

HOLMES BEACH – Commissioners approved a revised site plan resolution for Ugly Grouper at 5704 Marina Drive for replacement of the mobile kitchen with a walk in cooler.

Site plan approval for the business was denied in November after commissioners discovered a code that says all coolers must be enclosed and under roof.

At that time, commissioners asked the owner to modify the application to show the cooler enclosed and bring it back to a public hearing.

“This is a fairly straightforward application,” City Planner Bill Brisson told the board and added that the code issue has been addressed.

He said the new mobile kitchen adds 117 square feet of impervious surface, and the owner also must show that the drainage meets the city’s requirements.

In addition, he said the when the original site plan was approved, there was to be buffering between the mobile kitchen and the property to the west.

“During the work session, the commission wanted to make sure that buffering and landscaping was replaced,” he said.

Mobile kitchen, buffering and noise

Chair Judy Titsworth asked how long they should give the owners to remove the mobile kitchen. Building Official Jim

McGuinness said they need a place to store food until the commercial kitchen is completed.

However, City Attorney Patricia Petruff said the time frame should be clarified in the resolution, and Bob Dwyer, representing the property owners, suggested one day after they receive the certificate of occupancy for the kitchen. McGuinness suggested 10 days after the final building inspection.

Titsworth asked Dwyer about the buffering, and he said there was never any buffering on the west side, but it was still in place on the south side. He said the buffering in planters along the road would be replaced within 60 days.

Commissioners Pat Morton and Carol Soustek said residents in the area must be protected against noise.

“We have a plan to make some tremendous improvements to the location of the stage and to the sound blocking ability of the whole facility – significantly more landscaping, acoustic blocks. We hired an acoustical engineer to develop our site plan to help protect the neighbors.”

He said the owners plan to install a decibel meter on the premises to show the noise level and signals when the level exceeds a certain level.

Soustek asked about parking and Dwyer pointed out, “We purchased all the property around us.”

However, Petruff said it must state in the resolution that 21 parking spaces are still required or the number of seats must be reduced.

The resolution was unanimously approved with the changes discussed.

County votes to lobby to expand tourist tax uses

BY CINDY LANE SUN STAFF WRITER | clane@amisun.com

CINDY LANE | SUN

Mullet fishermen say that persistent red tide is killing mullet, and that sewage spills feed red tide.

Advocacy group sues over sewage spill

BY CINDY LANE SUN STAFF WRITER | clane@amisun.com

A nonprofit advocacy group’s campaign against sewage spills in local waters, which has resulted in a federal lawsuit, includes plans to talk to local fishermen about how the spills affect fishing.

Suncoast Waterkeeper Inc., Our Children’s Earth Foundation and the Ecological Rights Foundation has filed a lawsuit alleging violations of the federal Clean Water Act by the city of St. Petersburg for its sewage discharge of about 150 million gallons into Tampa Bay after Hurricane Hermine.

Testimony from fishermen probably will not be included in the case, because the plaintiffs are not required to prove damage to wildlife resources, Suncoast Waterkeeper Executive Director Justin Bloom said.

But local commercial and recreational fishermen will be asked to support the ongoing advocacy campaign by taking part in meetings to be scheduled next year to discuss how sewage spills affect fishing grounds, he said.

A sewage spill near Long Bar Point in

Sarasota Bay earlier this year had local fishermen making connections between that spill, red tide and dead fish, and doubting official explanations that it was a brown algae bloom that resembled a sewage spill, according to Mark Coarsey, president of the local chapter of Fishing for Freedom.

Nitrogen, a component of sewage, has been linked to the growth of red tide.

“I don’t know if anybody can say with certainty, but I suggest that sewage spills fuel red tide,” Bloom said.

While sewage spills are a problem in Manatee and Sarasota counties, St. Petersburg, in Pinellas County, was chosen as a defendant because it has the most acute problem with its crumbling infrastructure, he said.

“We hope to resolve the case without prolonged litigation,” he said. “The goal is to get them to invest in a plan to have a functional sewage system.”

The group also wants the city to design and implement environmental mitigation projects to offset damage done by the spills, and include residents in the process, he said.

Manatee County commissioners voted on Dec. 13 to lobby the Florida Legislature to change a population requirement in state law that would allow them to use tourist tax revenues to enhance public safety and law enforcement.

Existing law allows three Panhandle counties on the Gulf of Mexico with populations of less than 225,000 to use up to 10 percent of their tourist tax proceeds to “address impacts related to increased tourism and visitors to an area” with more EMS and police.

Manatee County had a population of 322,833 in 2010, according to the U.S. Census Bureau; the county will request that the 225,000 threshold be raised to 400,000.

The county meets the other requirements of the law, generating a minimum $10 million in annual tourist tax revenues (Manatee County collections exceeded $11.6 million in 2015-16), and having at least three municipalities (the county has five).

Despite Commissioner Charles Smith’s expressed doubt that the Legislature would change the law, and acting on a recommendation from the Manatee County Tourist Development Council (TDC), the commission added the item to its list of 2017 legislative priorities.

The session begins on March 7 in Tallahassee.

“We don’t know how to present

this,” Commission Chair Betsy Benac said. “Maybe it’s not population.

Maybe it’s based on a percentage of tourism revenue, but the TDC wants it to happen. We heard from the beach communities; they want it to happen. We will not push something forward that has no chance of happening... We need to let our voices be heard and whether or not we’re successful is another thing, but we need to try.”

The county’s 5 percent tourist tax is collected from owners of accommodations rented for six months or less who charge the tax to their renters, primarily tourists. The state statute that allows counties to levy the tourist tax, F.S. 125.0104, prohibits using the proceeds for anything not listed in the statute. Law enforcement is not listed.

The state law allows the tax to be used for tourism promotion, which is what the majority of Manatee County’s tax is used for, and for building and maintaining convention centers (like the Bradenton Area Convention Center), sports stadiums (McKechnie Field), auditoriums, aquariums (Parker Aquarium), museums (South Florida Museum), tourist information centers (the information kiosk at Manatee Beach), beach park facilities (Manatee and Coquina beaches), beach renourishment projects (one penny of the county’s five-cent tourist tax is earmarked for renourishment), erosion control projects (Twin Piers), zoos, fishing piers (Bridge Street Pier), nature centers and spring training facilities (Pirate City).

DECEMBER 21, 2016

www.amisun.com

THE SUN

11

12 THE SUN

www.amisun.com

DECEMBER 21, 2016

CHRISTMAS EVE

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 24

CANDLELIGHT SERVICES The he services end with the singing of Si h Sil Silent lent Night lent Nig ight ht and the Passing off th the Li Ligh Light. h

5:30 PM Family Service This service features a Nativity Pageant in which all children are invited to participate, special music by the Joyful Noise Children’s Choir, the singing of carols,, and Good News from Dr. Bob O’Keef. All children will receive a gift.

9:00 PM Traditional Service We will 9

he hear the beautiful sounds of Relative Harmony—sisters, M Melody on the harp and Mary playing the flute. There will b be singing of carols accompanied by the Roser Ringers ha handbell choir, special music by the Chancel Choir and D Dr. Bob O’Keef will bring us the message of Good News!

C CHRISTMAS S S DAY

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 25

9:00 AM

christmas worship & brunch There will be one Worship Service at 9:00 AM in the Chapel followed by brunch in the Fellowship Hall. Please RSVP online at www.roserchurch.com/christmas or call the church office if you plan to attend the brunch.

A NON DENOMINATIONAL CHRISTIAN COMMUNITY COMMUNITY CHURCH • 512 Pine Ave, Anna Maria [near Pier] 11:00 AM Wednesday, Dec. 28 • JOY (Just Older Youth) New Year’s Potluck Party 941-778-0414 • www.RoserChurch.com • www.facebook.com/RoserChurch TOM VAUGHT | SUN

Smooth sailing The ribbon ends fly at the Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce ribbon cutting at Smoothie King, in the Island Centre on East Bay Drive next to Dollar Tree.

DECEMBER 21, 2016

www.amisun.com

THE SUN

13

TOM VAUGHT | SUN

New office Mark and Jen Bowman cut the ribbon to the new office of Keller Williams on the Water, at 5386 Gulf Drive, Suite 104 in Holmes Beach. The couple will run this office with support available from the mainland office. Reach them at 941-840-0117.

TOM VAUGHT | SUN

Year ends for business card meetings The Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce held its last Business Card Exchange of the year on Wednesday, Dec. 14, at Harbour Isle on Anna Maria Sound. Staff and members posed for a picture.

14 THE SUN

www.amisun.com

DECEMBER 21, 2016

Shoeboxes filled with joy Volunteers at Roser Memorial Community Church have decorated and filled shoeboxes for less fortunate kids under a program known as Operation Christmas Child, with boxes going to more than 150 countries.

Roser’s congregation began preparing for this program in early September by donating empty shoeboxes by Sept. 25 so they could be decorating during a wrap party. The church volunteers were asked to put in a “wow” item such as a doll or soccer ball, and other fun toys, school supplies, hygiene items, and notes of encouragement and/or photos of themselves They were asked to bring the finished boxes to the church by Nov. 13 and a contribution for shipping the boxes, which was $7 apiece. This year, the Roser congregation made 101 boxes to help brighten a child’s Christmas.

On the day of dedication the Rev, Dr. Bob O’Keef prayed over the filled boxes and blessed them.

Following the service the team and their helpers checked each box, making sure it was complete.

They had a selection of extra items

SUbmitted

William and Josh Bernet load the shoeboxes in their vehicle for delivery to those in need. they could add to a box to be sure it is perfect for either a boy or girl in the appropriate age category and climate (e.g. scarfs and mittens as opposed to flip flops and sunglasses). They also checked for undesired items like liquid, food (especially chocolate, which seems so appropriate, but could ruin the whole box.

The perfectly packed gifts were then sealed, labeled and stacked for delivery to the local Operation Christmas Child gift collecting location. The Bernet family loaded them into their vehicle and took great pleasure in making the delivery.

For more information call the church office at 941-778-0414.

DECEMBER 21, 2016

www.amisun.com

THE SUN

15

TOM VAUGHT | SUN

Anniversary party Skinny's Place celebrated its 14th annual Party Under the Tent last Saturday featuring burgers and beer, T-shirt giveaways and live music.

16 THE SUN

www.amisun.com

DECEMBER 21, 2016

DECEMBER 21, 2016

www.amisun.com

THE SUN

17

18 THE SUN

www.amisun.com

Commission discusses several ordinances Discussion centered on storm debris cleanup and the growing and sale of medical marijuana.

BY PAT COPELAND SUN STAFF WRITER | pcopeland@amisun.com

HOLMES BEACH – City commissioners discussed five ordinances at last week’s work session, including those relating to storm debris cleanup and the growing and sale of medical marijuana.

Ordinances are as follows: • Ordinance 17-04 – granting an exclusive franchise to Waste Pro for collecting vegetative storm debris.

Questions arose regarding collecting damaged furniture and household goods and whether the storm must be an emergency declared by the governor.

City Attorney Patricia Petruff said the city has an agreement that is piggybacked with the county for cleanup after a major storm.

Keith Banasiak, regional vice president for Waste Pro said, “If it’s a big storm, we’re not the people

you’re going to want to call in.

What this is geared for is we’re going to be the people out there picking up appliances, couches, stuff people put out a day or two later.”

Petruff said she would revise the ordinance removing the word vegetation, call it an extreme weather event instead of natural disaster, add language regarding rates and add language that it would not include a catastrophic event.

Ban or moratorium

• Ordinances 17-06 and 17-10 – one was prohibiting the growing, processing, distribution and sale of marijuana for commercial purposes and the other was establishing a temporary moratorium on the same.

Discussion centered on which one to enact.

Chair Judy Titsworth asked, “Do we need a simpler moratorium ordinance so we can have the time to draft this (a ban) correctly?”

Commissioner Jean Peelen pointed out, “We have no idea what the see commission, page 19

DECEMBER 21, 2016

www.amisun.com

DECEMBER 21, 2016

THE SUN

19

commission: Ordinances discussed FROM PAGE 18

state is going to do. It may come out with its own set of regulations.

I would hate for us to make our own rules and then have to come back and change it.”

Mayor Bob Johnson said the commission should adopt a simple ordinance “that says no,” and Police Chief Bill Tokajer said he had provided a copy of Anna Maria’s one page ordinance on a ban.

Pumpkin Ravioli - Primo Ristorante

,·P DQ 2ULJLQDO “

What makes Primo! an Original is having a menu that is truly inspired by some of the best experiences and chefs I have worked with in Italy and Florida. I invite you to dine at our pizza bar and watch as the chef prepares your pizza and other culinary delights from scratch right before your eyes. There’s always something special cooking at Primo!

”

Maurizio Colucci, owner, Primo Ristorante

7KH 6DUDVRWD 0DQDWHH 2ULJLQDOV LV D JURXS RI ORFDOO\ RZQHG UHVWDXUDQWV ZKR VKDUH D SDVVLRQ IRU GLQLQJ H[FHOOHQFH DQG FRPPLWPHQW WR RXU FRPPXQLW\

DineOriginal.com 15 South Ristorante • Amore Restaurant • Andrea’s • Anna Maria Oyster Bar • Beach House • The Bijou Café • Birdrock Taco Shack • Blu Island Bistro • Blue Marlin Seafood • Bridge Street Bistro • Café Baci • Café Gabbiano • Café Venice • Cassariano Italian Eatery • Cedar Reef Fish Camp • 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 • Madfish Grill • Mar Vista Dockside Restaurant & Pub • Michael John’s • Michael’s On East • mi Pueblo • Miguel’s Restaurant • Ophelia’s On The Bay • Ortygia Restaurant • Pacific Rim • Pier 22 Restaurant • Polo Grill & Bar • Primo! Ristorante • Riverhouse Reef & Grill • Roessler’s Restaurant • Salute!

Restaurant • Sandbar Seafood & Spirits • Seafood Shack • Siesta Key Oyster Bar • State Street • Tsunami • Village Café • The Waterfront Restaurant on Anna Maria • The White Horse Pub

Titsworth asked Tokajer to bring back a simplified version of the ordinance establishing a ban.

• Ordinance 17-07 – extending the moratorium on franchise businesses from Feb. 15, 2017 to Oct. 31, 2017. This will go to first reading • Ordinance 17-07 – establishing a civil violation for possession of marijuana of 20 grams or less.

Petruff said she would add civil penalties to this ordinance.

20 THE SUN

www.amisun.com

DECEMBER 21, 2016

DECEMBER 21, 2016

www.amisun.com

THE SUN

21

22 THE SUN

NEWS BRIEFS Winter camps at The Center The Center of Anna Maria Island is offering two winter camps – one for kindergarteners through fifth-graders and one for sixth- through ninthgraders. Both camps are on Jan. 2 through 6.

During the Arctic Adventure Week, kindergarteners through fifth-graders will explore arctic animals, people and lifestyles through hands on activities, art, science, a trip to a local state park and field trips to go ice skating and to Lowery Park Zoo. The camp is held from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. and is $125 a week for members and $150 for a week for non-members or $40 per day.

The camp for sixth- through ninthgraders offers the following: • Monday – bowling/ Steak n Shake • Tuesday – movies/ Hungry Howies Pizza • Wednesday – Jump n Fun • Thursday – Ice Skating/ ice cream

www.amisun.com

• Friday - Qzar The camp is held from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and is $125 a week for members and $150 for a week for non-members or $40 per day.

Sign up at The Center at 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria, or contact Emily Moss, youth program manager, at Emily@centerami.org or 941-7781908.

County seeks public input on parks master plan Park lovers and outdoor enthusiasts will have a chance to shape the future of parks, green spaces and trails throughout Manatee County by providing input over the next two months.

The Manatee County Parks and Natural Resources Department, working with consultant KimleyHorn and Associates, will host meetings to gather public opinion for inclusion in the county parks master plan, which will provide a 15-year blueprint for the county to develop and maximize rec-

reation and open space amenities.

“During these meetings we’ll be giving an overview of the existing (parks and green space) conditions and asking people what they want to see in the future,” said Charlie Hunsicker, Manatee County Parks and Natural Resources director. “We’d like to get a wide diversity of comments and for people to tell us in their own words what their expectations are for what a quality parks system looks like.”

The last meeting is Thursday, Jan. 12, from 6- 8 p.m. at the Palmetto Library, 923 Sixth St. W., Palmetto.

Those unable to make the meeting can provide answers to 17 questions using an online survey that can be found at www.surveymonkey.com/r/ manateecountysurvey.

Hunsicker said the project team will request additional public feedback later next year before presenting the master plan to county commissioners for final approval.

DECEMBER 21, 2016

Crit Holland, DVM Jade Kafer, DVM 0 ) 6$7 681 &/26(' 7+ 67 &7 : &257(= )/

www.beachvetclinic.com

(941) 792-2838

L Like us on Facebook for a free nail trim

AUCE Fish Fry 1st Sunday Each Month

Lobster Boil 3rd Sunday Each Month

AUCE Snow Crab 2nd Sunday Each Month

Slicker's Pig Roast 4th Sunday Each Month

Live music 9 times a w week

Waterfront ront Tiki Bar on Sara Sarasota Bay

Sports Bar with 13 TVs

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

Stay informed of our Events

www.amisun.com

DECEMBER 21, 2016

THE SUN

23

Area shipwrecks uncovered

BY CINDY LANE SUN STAFF WRITER | clane@amisun.com

CORTEZ – Many shipwrecks lie in the waters around Tampa Bay, and Florida Maritime Museum visitors learned about three of them dating from the Civil War last week from Jeff Moates, director of the West Central and Central Regional Centers for the Florida Public Archaeology Network.

The ships were part of the naval blockade known as the “Anaconda Plan,” or “Scott’s Great Snake” which cut off the South from incoming supplies during the war, Moates said.

The Union Navy increased from 80 vessels in 1860 to 671 in 1864, but it was still not easy to block the numerous bays and inlets of Florida, he said.

Kate Dale and Scottish Chief

The Kate Dale and the Scottish Chief were attempting to block the Hillsborough River in Tampa when they sank.

A hundred soldiers ambushed the Kate Dale in 1862 in the Battle of Ballast Point, Moates said. Seven died, five Union and two Confederate soldiers. She sank in the Hillsborough River across from what is now Lowry Park Zoo and lies eight feet down, visible from the surface.

The sailing schooner was discovered by the Tampa Bay Shipwreck Survey of the Florida Aquarium.

The 141-foot sidewheel steamboat Scottish Chief sank downriver near what is now Blake High School, but has never been found in the black water, Moates said.

U.S.S. Narcissus

Three goliath grouper guard the U.S.S. Narcissus 14 feet down in the shoals about 2.7 miles northwest of Egmont Key, Moates said.

Originally the Mary Cook, she was built for harbor

CINDY LANE | SUN

The naval blockade known as “Scott’s Great Snake” surrounded the South in the Civil War. service in New York in the second year of the Civil War, 1863, but was recruited by the Union Navy.

The 81.5-foot, wooden-hulled steam tug traveled south in the Atlantic Ocean and into the Gulf of Mexico on her way to New Orleans in 1864, where she was rechristened U.S.S. Narcissus and armed with a 12-pound cannon and a 20-pound rifle.

She blockaded ships carrying food and supplies to Southern troops, capturing enemy vessels, transporting prisoners and serving as a towboat.

In August, 1864, she served in the battle of Mobile Bay, during which Union Rear Admiral David G. Farragut spoke his infamous quote, “Damn the torpedoes! Full speed ahead!”

Then, on Dec. 7, a storm arose and the Narcissus struck a mine, known then as a torpedo, which tore a hole in her starboard side amidships. She sank in 15 minutes, but the crew survived.

The Navy refloated her and sent her to Pensacola for repairs, where she sat out the rest of the war.

In 1865, with the war over, Narcissus began her voyage back to New York with the U.S.S. Althea to be decommissioned and sold. But on Jan. 4, 1866, a storm struck as the ships approached Anna Maria Island. Althea headed northwest while Narcissus took a western route, taking the wind and tide on her starboard beam.

At 6:15 p.m. Narcissus sent up a flare, which Althea returned at 6:30 p.m. At 7 p.m. Althea saw another signal from Narcissus, and responded.

Then the Althea crew heard an explosion; Narcissus had run aground on a sandbar and her boiler had exploded, sinking the ship.

The next morning, Althea anchored off Egmont Key and the crew surveyed the wreckage from Narcissus, finding the body of one of the crew on the beach. For two days they searched for survivors, but found none of the other 25 crew members.

The submerged tomb lies in pieces in 15 feet of water, with the engine frame, shaft, propeller and fragments of the exploded boiler visible among the wreckage.

Owned by the U.S. Navy, which requests that the site be treated with respect as a military grave, Narcissus also is protected by Florida laws prohibiting unauthorized disturbance, excavation or removal of artifacts.

adoption: Best gift ever FROM PAGE 1

visit in this house before, but we know he’ll find his way here,” Escobio said.

Escobio and Ryan have been together for four years. She is 46 and he is 51. She owns the Sea-renity Beach Spa and EcoBoutique in Bradenton Beach. He plays keyboards for the band Memphis Rub and he also works with singer Brandi Adams.

Escobio and Ryan were both adopted and their desire to adopt surfaced two years ago. Although they are now turning their middle-aged lives upside down, Escobio joked that as first time parents they at least get to bypass the joys of diaper changing and the sleepless nights associated with infants.

“Adopting from the state costs nothing for the family, but the process takes time. You can’t get discouraged and I’d be happy to talk to anybody that wants to learn more about it,” Escobio said.

Their adoption process has included many preliminary meetings, screenings, home visits and a 30-hour preparatory class.

“It’s more difficult than I imagined.

You learn a great deal. I’ve learned not to be just the fun dad; I have to be the stern dad sometimes too. And there’s not much quiet time anymore,” Ryan said of his new role as a dad.

“No more sleeping late, but I get a lot more cuddles,” Escobio added.

Creating family

“There are a lot of little things you have to do to instill in them that we are a family,” Escobio said of the transition taking place.

She recently bought a refrigerator magnet that says “family” and serves as a daily reminder to the kids that they are part of a family.

Working together, the quartet has developed family rules that are written down and posted on the kitchen cabinets. The family favorite is “Always be happy.” Others include “Listen carefully and follow directions” and “Keep things safe from dog chewing.”

Lily and Lizard grew up on the

mainland but have quickly taken to the Island lifestyle.

“They’re natural beach bums. They love the beach and they love dogs. Our dogs, Mojo and Porter, have quickly become therapy dogs,” Escobio said.

The kids are developing healthier eating habits but they still complain about the beloved McDonald’s meals of their past being replaced by more nutritious meals cooked at home and at local restaurants, including their favorite breakfast spot: The Beach Café at the Manatee Public Beach.

Family firsts

Ryan recently took Lizard for his first-ever visit to a hardware store; and Lily and Lizard have already visited the dog park and skate park in Holmes Beach, The Center in Anna Maria, the Trail of Treats, artsHOP and Saturday’s Christmas on Bridge Street. The kids have been to some of Ryan’s band gigs and during his first visit to a music store Lizard showed an interest in the drums.

“They haven’t had an opportunity to experience a lot of things. Seeing them see things for the first time is amazing.

I’m looking forward to a lot of firsts,” Ryan said.

Lily and Lizard are enrolled at Anna Maria Elementary School and adjusting well to their new school. Lily said she likes the math classes best and Lizard said he likes P.E. When asked what she wanted from Santa, Lily, said, “I don’t care what I get. I get what I get and I don’t throw a fit.”

Upon further reflection, she added, “I want a stroller for my baby dolls.”

Lizard was more specific.

“The only thing I want is more remote control cars,” he said, which prompted chuckles from Escobio and Ryan due to a recent incident involving one of Lizard’s cars and the swimming pool.

When sharing her thoughts on celebrating Christmas in her new home, Lily said, “I think it’s going to feel good.”

24 THE SUN

www.amisun.com

TOWN CRIER Irish Ceili dancing Irish Ceili and set dancing at Sandpiper Mobile Resort, 2601 Gulf Drive, in Bradenton Beach, begins on Tuesday, Jan. 10, from 1 to 3 p.m., and will continue every Tuesday through the end of March All types of dancers, including beginners, are welcome to attend. There is no charge for dancing, but they will take up a collection to pay the musicians.

Cribbage at Ducks D Coy Ducks, 5410 Marina Drive in Holmes Beach, is hosting cribbage games on Sundays at 11 a.m. It’s free, and no reservations are required.

Stroll through Robinson Take a silence stroll through Robinson Preserve with Park and Natural Resources Department Naturalist Melissa on Wednesday, Dec. 21, from 9 to 11 a.m. for a Zen-filled hike through the coastal mangrove system.

Mindfulness is the practice of being present in the moment, quieting our busy brains and focusing on the now.

Studies have shown mindfulness techniques are great stress relievers and can have a positive impact on physical health too.

Melissa will lead the group in a basic mindfulness walk to help participants unwind, relax and focus. A portion of the walk will be done in silence and if participants would like, barefoot, in order to completely relax.

Suitable for ages 16 and up. Reserve to 941-748-4501, ext. 6039.

Christmas potluck for seniors Senior Adventures members will meet at the Annie Silver Community Center, 103 23rd St., in Bradenton Beach, for their Christmas potluck lunch and book sale from 10-1 on Friday, Dec. 23. Peg Miller will cook the turkey, stuffing and gravy for lunch at noon. For more information, call Miller at 941-778-3106.

Tour historic Valentine House Valentine House in Robinson Preserve, 1704 99th St. N.W., Bradenton, will be open to the public for a tour on Tuesday, Dec. 27, from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. This historic 19th century house, which serves as the visitor center, was moved to its location from Palmetto along the Manatee River. There will historic photos, documents and a peek from the tower’s live camera. No reservations are needed.

Shop the beach twice

The Beach Market at Coquina Beach is open twice a week, Wednesday and Sunday, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The Wednesday markets run Dec. 21 through April 19. The Sunday markets continue through July excluding Christmas, Easter, Mother’s Day and Memorial Day weekend. Now there’s twice the fun shopping for items from local artists, arts and crafts, jewelry, fresh produce, plants, apparel, pottery, purses, collectibles, health and beauty items and more.

Watch local artisans creating, and visitors can find that perfect souvenir of their trip to Florida. The Anna Maria Island String Band will be performing throughout the Beach Market from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Shopper might enjoy a snack or drink at Coquina Café while relaxing on the deck overlooking the Gulf. The Beach Market is at 2650 Gulf Drive S., Bradenton Beach at the trolley stop, concession stand area. Take the free trolley to the market or park in the parking lot.

Manatee County does not allow dogs anywhere in Coquina Park. The market is stroller, walker and wheelchair accessible. Contact Nancy for more information at 941-518-4431 for more information or to reserve a booth.

A close look at Robinson Preserve

Help with weight control

The Manatee County Parks and Natural Resources Department offers a closer look at Robinson Preserve, 1704 99th St. N.W., from 9 to 11 a.m. on Tuesday, Dec. 27. They will look at all the ways to use and enjoy the preserve, discuss its development, provide insight into the new expansion site and go on a guided walk to the observation tower.

Program is suitable for all ages.

Reserve to 941-742-5923, ext. 6044 or email Cary.Catts@mymanatee.org.

Overeaters Anonymous meets at the Church of the Annunciation, 4408 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, each Thursday at 7 p.m. For more information, call 813494-6518.

Chanukah celebration set Everyone is invited to join the members of Temple Beth El in Bradenton for a community wide Chanukah celebration with songs, musical performances and prayers. As the sun goes down, at 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday.

Dec. 28, the festivities will begin at the downtown, Riverwalk amphitheater.

This is the seventh time that Temple Beth El has provided this wonderful event. Watch the lighting of the giant menorah. Refreshments, coffee and hot cocoa will be served. This is free and open to all faiths. Bring the children.

Music on the beach Enjoy Jam in the Sand on Thursdays at the Anna Maria Island Beach Café, 4000 Gulf Dr, Holmes Beach, from 5 to 8 p.m. It’s free and it’s fun. Enjoy dinner while you listen.

Drums on the beach Enjoy the rhythm of drums keeping the beat at the Sunset Drum Circle at the Anna Maria Island Beach Café, 4000 Gulf Dr, Holmes Beach, on Fridays from 5 to 8 p.m. There’s no charge to listen and dinner is available at the café.

Card games at church The Church of the Annunciation, 4408 Gulf Drive, in Holmes Beach, hosts duplicate bridge starting at noon on Tuesdays. Everybody is welcome

Contest for writers The Manatee County Library System is looking for a writer who wants to listen to a noted author speak.

To enter, prospective writer must be 16 years old and submit a flash fiction story, 500 words or less, based on a relationship of any kind. The winner will receive a ticket to “An Evening with Nicholas Sparks” at the Manatee Library Foundations annual author event on Tuesday, Feb. 7, at 7 p.m. at SFC’s Neel Performing Arts Center.

The winning entry also will be published in the upcoming edition of “805

DECEMBER 21, 2016

Lit + Art Journal” A panel of library professionals and 805 Journal editors will judge the entries. The deadline for entries is Friday, Dec. 2.

For complete rules, go to 805lit.org.

Entries may be submitted in person to any of the six Manatee Public Libraries, by e-mail at librarycontest@ mymanatee.org or mail to Flash Fiction Contest Committee, Manatee Public Library System, 1301 Barcarrota Blvd., Bradenton, FL 34205.

Mailed entries must be postmarked

by Dec. 2. Selections will be announced on Friday, Dec, 16. For more information, contact Kelly Foster at 941-7485555, ext. 6307.

Garden club scholarship The Manatee River Garden Club is once again offering a $500 scholarship to a graduating senior from Manatee County to pursue a degree in horticulture or environmental studies.

The application deadline is May 1. In addition, grants are available from the Garden Club’s Elizabeth Eaton Fund to help beautify a public space in Manatee County.

Applications for both of these funds can be found at manateerivergardenclub.com under the Learning and Links tab. Look also at the Scholarship Source Directory of the Manatee Community Foundation at http://mefinfo. org/scholarships. If additional information is needed call Sandie Smith at (941) 776-7528, or e-mail at sossandie123@gmail.com.

Applications should be sent to: Manatee River Garden Club, P.O. Box 14662, Bradenton, FL 34280-4662, Attn.

Sandie Smith.

Museum gets HAMMS set The Florida Maritime Museum, at 4415 119th Street West, in Cortez, has the complete set of Historic American Merchant Marine Survey (HAMMS) books.

This collection is the result of a 1936 Works Progress Administration initiative to help preserve America’s commercial maritime heritage. The sevenvolume set contains more than 400 sheets of line drawings of 166 different ships hulls, rigging and details.

The Walter Haskins Fund, in memory of Stacey K. Haskins, of the Community Foundation of Sarasota County, provided the funding for this purchase.

Boat builders, academics, and the public are welcome to utilize this valuable resource for free with staff assistance during the museum’s normal business hours, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday.

For additional information or to set up an appointment, contact the museum at 941 708-6120, or fmminfo@ manateeclerk.com.

DECEMBER 21, 2016

www.amisun.com

THE SUN

25

26 THE SUN

www.amisun.com

DECEMBER 21, 2016

www.amisun.com

DECEMBER 21, 2016

THE SUN

27

Clancy’s plunges into 2017

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

Clancy’s Irish Pub will host its ninth annual Shamrock Shiver on Sunday, Jan. 1, and the plungers will hit the water at the crack of noon.

The Shamrock Shiver is the tropical version of the polar bear plunges that take place nationwide and feature folks entering cold water to help raise money for charities. Past Shamrock Shiver participants have ranged in age from three years old to 83 years young.

The plunge will take place in Bradenton Beach near the junction of Gulf Drive and Seventh Street South, a few blocks south of Bridge Street.

Participating groups and individuals are asked to fill out a pledge form in advance that indicates the amount of money being pledged, the form of payment (cash, check or credit card) and provides contact information for the person making the pledge payment.

The Shamrock Shiver pledge form can be

file photo

“Elvis” led the Shamrock Shiver plungers into the water during last year’s fund-raising event downloaded at www.floridawinefest.org or picked up in person at Clancy’s Irish Pub at 6218 Cortez Rd. W. in Bradenton.

Commemorative T-shirts and sand brushes will be available at the beach and at Clancy’s.

Because so many past participants arrived wearing costumes, a costume contest has been added to this year’s festivities. Contestants will receive a free raffle ticket for participating and must arrive at the beach by 11:30 a.m. to be judged and photographed. All of the

plungers will then enter the water at noon.

After the plunge, the annual Post-Plunge Party will take place at Clancy’s and feature door prizes, live music by The Jack Tamburine Band and hamburgers and hotdogs for sale as part of the fund-raising activities.

The Shamrock Shiver started in 2009 as a whim among some beach pals who wanted to help the area’s disadvantaged kids. Since then, the annual New Year’s Day plunge has raised $169,770 for local families in need.

Past beneficiaries of the Shiver include Hope Family Services, Manatee County Girls Club, Mothers Helping Mothers, Turning Points (Community Coalition on Homelessness), Early Learning Coalition of Manatee County and Take Stock in Children.

The generosity of the event organizers, volunteers, service providers and the participating local businesses allows 100 percent of the proceeds to be distributed to local organizations. The funds raised are distributed by Caring for Children Charities, doing business as Florida Winefest & Auction, which is a 501(c)3 not-for-profit organization. The organization’s “Give where you live” mantra is reflected in the charitable efforts of Clancy’s and all the Shamrock Shiver participants and donors.

This year’s organizing committee includes Jan and Brian Crudele, Steve and Liza Gorin and Jackie Flahive as well as Clancy’s Dana Ryan and Rayma Stowe. To plunge, pledge or donate, call Clancy’s at 941-794-2489 or Florida Winefest at 941-952-1109.

28 DECEMBER 21, 2016

www.amisun.com

DECEMBER 21, 2016

29

30 THE SUN

OUTDOORS

(APPY (OLIDAYS

AMI OUTFITTERS Coastal Gear & Apparel

amioutfitters.com 941-254-4996 401 Pine Ave Anna Maria FEBRUARY 17, 2016

The miracle of Matlacha G

ossamer veils of mist driven by a cool, damp north wind greeted us as we motored into Matlacha Pass. The weather had morphed overnight, from warm fall to early winter with the arrival of a cold front. The wind was gusting to twenty miles an hour and Captain Joe Harley was pondering his game plan.

The trip had been planned a month before and Harley had mapped out a strategy based on prolific fishing he had been experiencing throughout the Matlacha Aquatic Preserve (AP). The change of weather required Harley to access his memory. The 300plus days he spends on the water every year would prove invaluable.

Rick Hess joined us on our outing. His pin point casts and stamina proved invaluable with the poor visibility we encountered.

Over nearly 16 hours, Hess made

Reel Time RUSTY CHINNIS thousands of casts to and under the mangroves. This was the place we had most of our action.

Having pre-fished for a number of days, Harley had been intent on discovering a pattern that would assure our success. The early front completely changed the pattern he had so carefully mapped out. Not to be dissuaded, he changed his plan to address the conditions.

Located between Boca Grande Pass and Fort Myers Beach, the Matlacha AP features a diverse habitat, offering some of the most productive sport fishing in the State.

Our first stop was in a protected canal that had evaded the development that was originally planned.

Harley had chosen the spot because it was protected from the wind. The canal was inaccessible on low water. Harley shut the motor down at the mouth of the canal and we immediately saw tarpon rolling in the distance. Hess was fishing an eight weight outfit with a floating line, a nine-foot tapered leader and a forty pound bite tippet. Harley had suggested a brown Clouser which Hess tied on with a non-slip mono loop. As skiff moved silently down the canal Hess cast to pods of rolling fish. Most of the tarpon weren’t in a mood to feed, but we still managed hook one that escaped in an acrobatic leap. The next day we returned to the same canal and landed a beautiful fish.

rUSTY CHINNIS | sun

Rick Hess unhooks a redfish that fell for a spoon fly. see reel time, page 31

DECEMBER 21, 2016

www.amisun.com

THE SUN

31

reel time: Miracle of Matlacha FROM PAGE 30

Our next stop was across the Pass where the Burnt Store Bar intersects with Matlacha Pass and Charlotte Harbor. Here a plethora of small islands feature excellent habitat for all the varied species that inhabit the local waters. Poling the edges of the mangroves we saw and cast to some large snook and reds that refused our flies.

Heading south of the Matlacha Bridge Harley took us to a large flat near where we worked the mangroves.

Hess was on the bow when he noticed a swirl behind the boat. Turning and making a cast he was rewarded with a fat red that was over the 36-inch slot.

Moving further south we found more reds. Because the visibility was so poor, Harley looked for an area that had large schools of mullet. Reds like to cruise with mullet, perhaps using them for cover. When the visibility is poor or if the water is muddy due to the mullet Harley likes to use a spoon fly which

act as an attractor pattern. After just a few minutes Hess connected with another red that took him fifty yards into his backing. Fifteen minutes later another red fell for the spoon fly.

The only fish that evaded us was a snook and it wasn’t until the last stop of the last day that Hess connected with one under a mangrove bough.

The snook put up a signature battle with several strong runs and numerous head shaking jumps. After boating and photographing it we called it a day.

The trip was challenging but we still managed to catch the snook, redfish and tarpon we were targeting.

It proved that even under the most challenging conditions the Matlacha Pass Aquatic Preserve’s rich and varied habitat ranks as one of the best Florida has to offer.

Captain Joe Harley can be reached by phone at 239-443-7412 or e-mail joe@snooktown.com.

32 THE SUN

www.amisun.com

DECEMBER 21, 2016

The Center is so grateful for the support we have received from the community in 2016!

A wish for peace and happiness this holiday season and throughout the New Year.

The Center will be closed December 26th (in recognition of federal holiday of Christmas on December 25th) and Friday December 30th (in recognition of federal holiday New Year’s Day).

As a gift to our hard working staff, The Center will close Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday the 27th – 29th and the 31st allowing them to spend time with family and friends. The Center will re-open Monday, January 2nd at 7am and will be offering a FULL week of Winter Break Camp for k-5th graders AND teens!

Snowbird Special Membership* Monthly membership starts at $19 per month to $99 per month for a family.

Join Today!

Please don’t forget to renew your membership

Included in Snowbird Special Membership • Unlimited group fitness and wellness classes • Unlimited league sports with processing fee • Fitness Center • Tennis Courts • Pickleball • Discount on specialty classes • Drop-in child care • Discounts on after school program • Member socials • Open gym and field time • Playground

*Must have proof of residency or a lease for 30+ days.

Senior Center “Lunch and Learn”

January 9th at 11:30 am: a modern approach to estate planning with Linda D. Hartley, Florida Bar Board Certified in wills, trusts and estate law from Hill Ward Henderson

407 Magnolia Avenue, Anna Maria • 941-778-1908 www.centerami.org

www.amisun.com

DECEMBER 21, 2016

THE SUN

33

Front brings challenging conditions Captain Rick Grassett

Anglers fishing with me, out of CB's Saltwater Outfitters on Siesta Key, had some action catching and releasing trout and bluefish on deep grass flats of Sarasota Bay, snook and blues in the Intracoastal Waterway at night and snook, trout and pompano on flies and CAL jigs with shad tails in Gasparilla Sound during the past week.

Martin Marlowe, from New York, fished dock lights in the ICW in Blackburn Bay with me on Monday evening. He had good action catching and releasing snook and

jacks on my Grassett Snook Minnow fly fished on a sink tip fly line. Anna Maria Island winter resident, Bill Morrison and Sarasota winter resident, Gary Marple, fished the same area with me on Wednesday evening. Although conditions were about the same, the action was slower.

However they managed to catch and release a few snook, several jacks and a nice bluefish on my Grassett Snook Minnow fly.

Tom Lamb, from Geneva, Switzerland and Roy and Diane Glah, from Sarasota, fished Sarasota Bay with me on Thursday

afternoon. A front had passed through that morning and conditions were challenging.

With a brisk north wind, it was tough to find a protected area to fish. However, Tom caught and released the big fish of the trip, a 4-lb. bluefish, on a CAL jig with a shad tail.

Jon Yenari and Kyle Ruffing, from Sarasota, fished the backcountry of Gasparilla Sound near Boca Grande with me on Friday. They had some action catching releasing a snook and a few trout on flies and CAL jigs with shad tails. Jon caught a

4-lb. pompano on a CAL jig with a shad tail to end the day as we hit a deep grass flat for trout on the way in!

Trout, blues and more on deep grass flats and snook, reds and larger trout in skinny water should be good options. Catch and release night snook fishing around lighted docks and bridges in the ICW with flies and DOA Lures should also be a good option.

With water temperature still close to 70 degrees, there still may be some action in the coastal gulf with false albacore (little tunny). Tripletail should also be a good

tide chart for anna maria city pier-December 21-28 Day Date

A.M. High Time Feet

A.M. Low Time Feet

P.M. High Time Feet

P.M. Low Time Feet

Wed 12/21

4:28a 1.32

10:59a 0.43

5:36p 1.69

Thu 12/22

6:13a 1.16

12:30a 0.56

6:14p 1.78

11:46a 0.63

Fri 12/23

8:04a 1.14

1:42a 0.30

6:53p 1.86

12:34p 0.80

Sat 12/24

9:26a 1.19

2:38a 0.06

7:29p 1.95

1:22p 0.93

Sun Rise Set

Day Date

A.M. High Time Feet

A.M. Low Time Feet

P.M. High Time Feet

P.M. Low Time Feet

Sun Rise Set

7:17-5:41

Sun 12/25

10:25a 1.25

3:23a -0.14

8:04p 2.03

2:06p 1.01

7:18-5:43

Mon 12/26

11:10a 1.28

4:02a -0.30

8:37p 2.10

2:47p 1.06

7:19-5:44

Tues 12/27

11:47a 1.29

4:38a -0.41

9:10p 2.15

3:25p 1.07

Wed 12/28

12:20p 1.30

5:12a -0.48

9:44p 2.19

4:02p 1.06

7:17-5:41 7:18-5:42 7:18-5:42

7:19-5:44 7:20-5:45

34 THE SUN

Obituaries Marjorie Kendall Marjorie Kendall (née Dawson), of Holmes Beach, 96, passed away peacefully at Tidewell Hospice, Bradenton, on Dec. 7, 2016. Born in 1920 in England, Marjorie learned to drive from her father, a Rolls Royce mechanic, and served as a driver in the Women’s Royal Navy (Wrens) during WWII. Proud of her time in the Wrens, Marjorie told stories of driving officers on urgent missions through fog and darkness on unlit roads, from which all signage had been removed, during bombing raids. She also told stories of parties and dances with many friends in the armed forces, describing her time in service in positive terms.

She passed away 51 weeks after losing her husband of 66 years, Dr. Colin “Digger” Kendall. She met him playing tennis while he was a medical student, and they were married in 1949 in London, and moved in 1951 to Australia, Colin’s country of birth. In 1954, they returned to England, then moved to the US in 1956. The family lived Virginia, New York, Florida and New Jersey and once returned to England for three years. In the 1990s Colin and Marjorie retired to Anna Maria Island, where they had vacationed thirty years earlier.

At various times, Marjorie worked as a proofreader, manuscript reader and editor for publishing houses in London and for Educational Testing Services in Princeton. She loved reading, especially English novels, and kept a record of books including plot summaries and brief critiques (e.g., “Wonderful!” or “Rubbish”). She loved British poetry, and even in the last weeks of her life could recite dozens of poems by heart.

She and her husband played tennis enthusiastically and well, Colin until he was 90 years old and Marjorie up to age 80. Thereafter, she watched it faithfully on television. Also she played a competitive game of bridge, and enjoyed going to matches as well as other social gatherings. She loved dressing up and shopping at Beall’s, and never had a blond, wavy hair out of place. A strong and loving soul, cheerful and talkative, Marjorie loved entertaining, and especially liked telling and hearing stories.

Marjorie raised three children, teaching each one to read by age four, and encouraged them to be storytellers and writers. When her children were small, she composed bedtime stories, and later in life she wrote stories, essays,

www.amisun.com

and poetry, earning the title of “Poet Laureate” of the Women’s Club. She enjoyed the Weekly Telegraph crossword puzzles and other word games such as Scrabble.

Her whole life, Marjorie loved going to the theater, especially in London and on Broadway. Also she enjoyed acting, taking part in productions at school in England and in community and regional theatre groups, including small roles in musicals at McCarter Theatre, Princeton. After moving to Anna Maria Island, she took part in the Offstage Ladies and on her 96th birthday attended a Bradenton production of “Phantom of the Opera.”

Marjorie loved all animals, especially dogs, and donated generously to animal charities. She spoke often of the last pet she’d had, a Cairn terrier called Sandy, even in her final days.

Despite suffering from dementia, she remained interested in current events and especially liked watching the BBC broadcast of the “real news,” by which she meant news from Europe. She used e-mail to keep up with friends and family on three continents, and enjoyed watching Downton Abbey, singing along with show tunes, and going to watch the sunset near the Sand Bar in Anna Maria. Her house was always decorated with fresh flowers.

She is survived by her son, Colin Kendall, and daughters Valerie Stern and Gillian (Jill) Kendall, and grandchildren Lucy Riter, Chloe Kendall, John (Jack) Kendall, Laurie Stern and Jenna Stern.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, Jan. 14, 2017, at 11 a.m. at the Episcopal Church of the Annunciation, 4408 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, to be followed by an informal celebration of life at her home.

Jimmy L. Nichols Jimmy L. Nichols, 89, Anna Maria, died Dec 10, 2016. Graveside services will be held at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 10, at Sarasota National Cemetery Sarasota, FL. Brown & Sons Funeral Homes & Crematory, 43rd Street Chapel, Bradenton. Condolences may be sent to www.brownandsonsfuneral.com

Samuel Carpenter Planck Captain Samuel C. Planck, 79, of Holmes Beach, Fla., took his final flight on Dec. 11, 2016 after a long illness. He was with family, and went as peacefully as one could.

Sam was born in Flemingsburg, Ky., the youngest son of the late Samuel Forman Planck and Lillian Carpenter Planck Applegate.

Sam is survived by his wife, Piroska;

son Samuel Milton (Janet) Planck, of Folsom, Calif.; daughter, Norah Shannon (Laura) Planck, of Arlington, Mass.; his three grandboys, Alex, Evan and Ayre; and two granddogs, Spike and Oscar. One of seven, Sam is also survived by Anna Lou Planck McNeil, of Flemingsburg; Donnie Applegate, of Ocala, Fla.; Jane Applegate Northrup, of Mayesville; and Julia Applegate Prater, of Columbia, S.C.; along with numerous cousins, nieces, nephews – both great and small, inlaw and outlaw.

Sam graduated from the University of Kentucky with a degree in agriculture. While serving in the reserve officer training corps, he was a fighter pilot training instructor during the Vietnam War. He worked for United Airlines as a flight engineer, a co-pilot, and retired as a captain on the 777 after 28 years. Sam moved to the Island in 1987, so he and his beloved sailboat would have a deep-water canal on which to retire.

Sam and Piroska later settled on Key Royale, building a house on Bimini Bay where their nautical Christmas lights could be seen from the Key Royale bridge. Sam will be remembered for having the best spot to view the boat parade, his epic March Madness Kentucky parties and his expansive sense of humor. He was cracking jokes and asking after dear friends and family even on his dying day.

The family will be holding a private service (with bourbon), there will be a celebration of life (with even more bourbon) at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the University of Kentucky, (Memo Line: Lillian Planck Applegate Memorial Scholarship), 123 Sturgill Bldg, Lexington, KY 40506-0015.

Dorothy ‘Dottie’ Poindexter Dorothy ‘’Dottie’’ Poindexter, 75, Bradenton, died Dec. 9, 2016 at Blake Medical Center.

Born in Newton, Mass., she moved to Bradenton in 1969 from Safety Harbor, Fla., and previously from Hopkinton, Mass. She worked for The Bradenton Herald, then Poindexter and Sons Farm Supply in Ellenton, she was retired from Manatee County Public Works Department as assistant director then for the city of Bradenton Beach as director of public works. She had two sons and raised several children through the foster parenting programs, she was a loving mother and grandmother, and she enjoyed NBA Basketball games.

Predeceased by son Robert Poindexter; survived by son John Poindexter; brother, Gerald McClean; her grandchildren, Aaron, Elizabeth, Brooke, Baron and Christian; great granddaughter Scout.

There was a service for her on

DECEMBER 21, 2016

Thursday, Dec. 15, at Brown and Sons Funeral Homes and Crematory, 43rd Street Chapel, Bradenton. She was interred at Manasota Memorial Park in Oneco next to her parents, John Robert and Elna McLean. Memorial donations may be made to the Manatee County Animal Shelter. Condolences may be made to www.brownandsonsfuneral. com.

Doyle Wayne Swann Doyle Wayne Swann, 79, of Cortez, died Dec. 12, 2016.

Born in Jefferson County, Tenn., he moved to Cortez in 1997 from Indianapolis, Ind. He was a member of Ss Peter & Paul the Apostles Catholic Church. He was also an avid golfer, sports enthusiast and a member of the Moose Club of Bradenton Beach.

Predeceased by his parents, Frank M. and Rachael (Miller) Swann; sister Brenda Riggen; grandchild James P. Glidewell, Jr.; survived by his wife of 34 years, Patty, of Cortez, Fla.; sons Brian (Sanjuana) Swann, of Indianapolis, Ind., and Tommy Swann, of Indianapolis, Ind.; daughter Susan (Ken) Perdue, of Carmel, Ind.; step daughters Jessica (Rob) Payson, of McCordsville, Tenn., and Sherry (Jim) Glidewell, of Albany, Ky.; brother Keith Swann, of Pendleton, Ind.; seven grandchildren and one great granddaughter.

A celebration of life was held on Saturday, Dec. 17, 2016, at the Cortez Club House, 12160 Cortez Rd. W., Cortez, FL 34215. Brown & Sons Funeral Homes & Crematory, 43rd Street Chapel, 604 43rd St. W., Bradenton, FL 34209 in charge. Memorial donations may be made to: James P. Glidewell Scholarship Fund, 167 Waterview Lane, Albany, N.Y. 42602. Condolences may be made to www.brownandsonsfuneral. com

Sheridan Teachout, III Sheridan Teachout, III, 78, of Anna Maria, died Dec. 15, 2016.

Born in Lakeland, Fla., he has spent most of his life in Florida and he was a Veteran of the US Navy.

Predeceased by his parents, Elwood S. Jr. and Edith (Sims) Teachout; survived by wife of 57 years, Rebecca of Anna Maria, Fla.; sons, Steven Joseph (Michelle) Teachout of Steamboat Springs, Colo. and Robert David (Liu Hsin) Teachout of Memphis, Tenn.; and two granddaughters.

There will be no local services at this time. Brown & Sons Funeral Homes & Crematory, 43rd Street Chapel, Bradenton, is in charge of arrangements.

Condolences may be made to www. brownandsonsfuneral.com. see obits, page 43

www.amisun.com

DECEMBER 21, 2016

THE SUN

35

Yuletide spirit on Bridge Street Christmas came to Bradenton Beach Saturday night during the annual Christmas on Bridge Street celebration hosted by the Bridge Street Merchants Association. The celebration featured live music from the Rowlett Academy Children's Chorus, the Powell Crosley Dickens Carolers and Russ and Brandi Adams. Santa showed up to talk with the kids while the merchants were busy showing why Bridge Street is a great place to find unique, one-of-a-kind gifts.

TOM VAUGHT | SUN

Above, Kids sampled soap snow from a machine. At left, Christmas wreaths were judged and sold. At right, Laila Ward visited with Santa and her red hat complimented his.

TOM VAUGHT | SUN

TOM VAUGHT | SUN

TOM VAUGHT | SUN

Above, The Rowlett Academy Children's Chorus gave a high powered performance before a large crowd. At right, BridgeWalk resort owner Angela Rodocker, Anna Maria Oyster Bar owner John Horne and his wife, Amanda, and Margi Dawson from Turning Points, a charitable organization that helps individuals find homes and was the recipient of the money raised during the celebration.

TOM VAUGHT | SUN

36 THE SUN

WWW.AMISUN.COM - CELEBRATING 15 YEARS

DECEMBER 21, 2016

Isol and Van Smith were married at the Sandbar restaurant Nov. 4, 2016. Patti Mckee, of the Sandbar, officiated and coordinated the wedding along with Luis Ortiz. Isol and Van celebrated their wedding on Anna Maria Island, before returning home to Orlando, Fla.

Dara Caudill | www.islandphotography.org

Amanda Schauner and Cody Cammack were married on Nov. 12, 2016. Amanda and Cody honeymooned on Anna Maria Island, before returning home to Crest Hill, Ill. Dara Caudill | www.islandphotography.org

Angela Geiger and Paul Leone were married at the Sandbar restaurant on December 10, 2016. Patti Mckee and Luis Ortiz of the Sandbar, coordinated the wedding and reception. Angela & Paul honeymooned at the Tortuga Inn, before returning home to Tampa, Fla. Dara Caudill | www.islandphotography.org

www.amisun.com

DECEMBER 21, 2016

A Perfect Setting.. For Your Perfect Wedding

100 Spring Avenue Anna Maria Island 941.778.8709

200 Gulf Drive North Bradenton Beach 941.778.8718 BeAnIslandBride.com

Directly on the beach and award-winning As long as you’re getting married on the beach, why not stay on the beach?

Bungalow Beach Resort, 2000 Gulf Drive N., Bradenton Beach, has won the “Top Romance” award in the U.S. by tripadvisor.com and it is located right on the beach – the perfect place to escape between the rehearsal dinner, the ceremony and the reception. With the Gulf of Mexico just steps from your lushly landscaped cedar bungalow, it’s a great place for an extended stay after the bride and groom leave for their honeymoon.

If the bride and groom want to continue their stay, Bungalow Beach Resort, which also won the 2013 Excellence Award from tripadvisor.com, is a very popular honeymoon destination.

Originally a group of beachfront army barracks; each of the Bungalow Beach Resort units retains the old Florida charm that is Anna Maria Island, with modern conveniences inside. And you will stay in luxury with personal touches like baskets of embroidered towels, flowers and candy. Don’t forget the free trolleys that run up and down the street outside.

From the road, Bungalow Beach Resort is famous for its lush and colorful flowers with a white gazebo.

Whether you’re getting married or part of the wedding party, pick award-winning Bungalow Beach Resort as your home base where you will cherish those moments when you’re not involved with the ceremony. You’ll want to return when there is nothing to distract you from your stay.

Call Bungalow Beach Resort at 1-800-779-3601 or log onto www.bungalowbeach.com.

THE SUN

37

38 THE SUN

www.amisun.com

Bridge Tender Inn serves Florida style If you’re looking for someplace with history you’ll appreciate Bridge Street in Bradenton Beach, and the best location for original Florida food with a view is the Bridge Tender Inn and Dockside Bar, located at 135 Bridge Street.

Bridge Tender Inn and Dockside Bar has been around for decades and under the same ownership for 27 years. It’s a landmark in an historic part of Anna Maria Island.

The dining room holds up to 130 people and is perfect for a rehearsal dinner, bridal shower or other gathering. You can reserve the dining room and tailor the Bridge Tender’s menu, featuring fresh seafood and other local dishes, to as casual or as formal as you would like.

For smaller parties, you can reserve a section of the dining room, with views of Sarasota Bay, the Bridge Street Pier and Bridge Street. They have also added another area, “Doc B’s Front Porch.” The Bridge Tender and Dockside Bar is also accessible by water at Marker 49 and has two docks available for customers.

For more information on the Bridge Tender Inn and Dockside Bar, go to wwwbridgetenderinn.rocks or contact Shannon Dunnan, events coordinator, at tenderinn@aol.com or 941-778-4849.

The Bridge Tender Inn, for the taste of real Florida.

DECEMBER 21, 2016

www.amisun.com

DECEMBER 21, 2016

THE SUN

Dara Caudill | www.islandphotography.org

Kalyn Weddle and Skyler Porter were married on the beautiful beach of Anna Maria Island on July 12, 2016. Kalyn and Skyler honeymooned on Anna Maria Island before returning home to Liberty, Ky.

Dara Caudill | www.islandphotography.org

Jocelyn Cornbleet and David Cason married at the Sandbar restaurant on Dec. 3, 2016. Chuck Caudill provided the music for the ceremony and reception. Patti Mckee and Luis Ortiz, of the Sandbar, coordinated the ceremony and reception. Jocelyn and David honeymooned on Anna Maria Island and will go on an African safari in April. They currently reside in Chicago, Ill.

39

40 THE SUN

REAL ESTATE

DECEMBER 21, 2016

There are gifts and there are gifts W

hat was the best holiday gift you ever received? Mine was a doll with red braids perched on top of a shiny new sleigh under the Christmas tree.

But there is one gift that won’t fit under the Christmas tree, and that’s the gift of a home.

Many people wonder if it is a good idea to give their home to their children. What may seem like a great idea in order to avoid taxes or help out the kids frequently is not.

First, there is a real emotional concern that needs to be considered before signing over your home to your child, especially if your intention is to continue living in the home.

What if your child gets divorced and the house becomes an asset that the ex-spouse has a legitimate claim on? Or if your child has financial problems and their creditors place a lien on the property or the very worst thing is if your child sells the house out from under you?

Castles in the Sand Louise Bolger Many people think that a home transfer is a good way to preserve wealth and to help you in the future to qualify for Medicaid in the event of the necessity of long term care.

However, if you apply for Medicaid within five years of gifting your home to your children, Medicaid presumes that the gift was made in order to qualify for Medicaid. They will then be looking at the home’s value to pay for those services. In addition, Medicaid could also discount the five-year rule if the homeowner is transferring title to a spouse or child who has been living in the house and providing the applicant nursing care

for at least two years.

And there is more. If your children sell the house right away, they may be facing steep taxes because when you give away your property the tax basis, which is the original cost of the property, becomes the tax basis for the recipient. For example, if the house was purchased for $150,000 and is now worth $350,000, when the children sell the house, they will have to pay capital gains on the difference between the $150,000 basis and the selling price.

The capital gains can be avoided if they are living in the house for two years before selling. This would of course have to be verified and confirmed that it was their primary residence. This differs from standard inherited property where the cost basis is stepped up allowing an immediate sale with less of a tax impact.

Right now, under current law you can gift a total of $5.43 million over your

lifetime without incurring a gift tax. And you can give anyone property valued at $14,000 or less annually without paying gift tax. However, all of this will probably be changed very soon. The new administration has made it clear that one of the first changes that they will be making is reversing the death tax. So, the concept of gifting your home to avoid taxes will have to be reviewed, however, the Medicare five-year rule will unlikely change.

The trick here is timing and predicting what Congress will do. At this stage, conservative financial advisors and accountants would probably advise their clients not to make any moves until the new federal regulations are clear. Since seeking the advice of professionals is always important, that is where you should start before moving the house under the Christmas tree.

Wishing everyone a joyful and peaceful holiday season.

www.amisun.com

DECEMBER 21, 2016

Rental applications due in January As mandated in the Holmes Beach vacation rental certificate ordinance, applications and application fees must be submitted no later than Jan. 1, 2017.

Those failing to submit will be in violation of the vacation rental ordinance if they continue renting properties without adhering to the ordinance and could be taken before the Code Enforcement Special Magistrate and fined up to $250 per day.

According to the ordinance: “Sec. 4-5. - Application for vacation rental certificate. Within 180 days of the effective date of the vacation rental ordinance, the city will establish the process for obtaining a vacation rental certificate. Once the application process is established, the city will notify the owners or agents of properties with existing rental business tax receipts that the vacation rental certificate application process is available. The city will also place a notice in the newspaper that the vacation rental application process is available. All owners of properties used as vacation rental unit shall be

required to submit an application for a vacation rental certificate on a form promulgated by the city within 90 days of the notice sent by the city. If an application together with the required application fee is received prior to the deadline, the property owner will be allowed to continue renting the property while the application is being processed by the city and inspections are scheduled; provided the owner has a valid business tax receipt issued by the city. The city will also allow for a reasonable amount of time for the property to come into compliance in the event of a failed inspection.”

To date, the city has received 619 applications, have 364 inspections scheduled and have conducted 271 inspections.

Police Chief Bill Tokajer said, “Thanks to all the citizens and rental companies who have already come into compliance.”

For more information, call Code Enforcement Officer James Thomas at 941-518-9488 or Code Enforcement Officer Nate Brown at 941-212-8733.

THE SUN

Citizen group seeks help for Gloria Dei The group asked the city to help preserve the church property as green space.

BY PAT COPELAND SUN STAFF WRITER | pcopeland@amisun.com

HOLMES BEACH – Resident Rene Ferguson, representing a citizen group, said the group met with officials of Gloria Dei Lutheran Church on Dec. 4 to discuss the church’s plight and help find a solution.

In July, church officials sought to rezone part of the church property from public/semi public to R-2, or medium density residential, after members learned of major financial issues and determined that the only way to save the church was to rezone a portion of the property and sell it off.

In October, city commissioners rejected the rezone proposal because they were concerned that a change to R-2 would encourage rental structures. The R-2 zoning would have allowed for four to five duplex structures.

“It seems the church council has been pursuing this for 2 ½ years,” Ferguson said. “They have spent $46,000 on in drawings, city fees and attorney’s fees.

“The citizen group had proposed the idea of purchasing the property using an open space tax. It’s a lovely piece of property in the middle of our city and could function well as a park or parking lot.”

She said the church is amenable to working with the city to keep the space green and asked the mayor and commission to consider pursuing the idea.

Ursula Stem, a resident and church member, said, “The numbers are not working. We don’t have the membership so we’re not getting the contributions on a weekly basis. We need something to get relief. We’re asking the city to give us guidance.”

“We don’t want to lose Gloria Dei. Once you lose one church, you’ll lose the other churches and the whole community will be dissolving before our very eyes.”

41

42 THE SUN

www.amisun.com

DECEMBER 21, 2016

Santa visits Swordfish Blessing bags of Bradenton and other groups brought kids to the Swordfish Grill for a visit from Santa.

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

CORTEZ – Early Sunday morning, the Monkey Bus took off for the mainland to bring some deserving children and their parents to the Swordfish Grill, by the water. They enjoyed some snacks and candy canes while the adults walked out on the dock to see if they could spot a man in a red suit with a while beard who was coming by boat from the Tide Tables.

Soon, a large commercial fishing boat rounded the bay and the restaurant nearly emptied out as the boat neared. There on deck was Santa Claus waving to the wide-eyed kids waiting on shore.

In the bow of the boat were dozens of brightly colored packages bundled in plastic bags.

Santa and his elf, Greg, hopped off the boat and the kids surrounded Santa as he made his way to the restaurant.

Charitable groups arranged the event and one of those groups was Blessing Bags of Bradenton.

They were sponsoring a special family: 12 kids being raised by their grandparents after their parents died.

Vicki Snyder, the grandmother, waited with her kids. When asked what they wanted for Christmas, one said an EZ Bake Oven. Others agreed. Another said a (smart) phone and they all agreed.

Meanwhile, Santa sat patiently as kids came up when their names were called.

Afterward, they were treated to a brunch and CoCo Joe’s Italian Ice treated them to sweet icy dessert.

Santa then headed on to other places where kids needed a boost from their friends and neighbors to make sure this was a merry Christmas.

TOM VAUGHT | SUN

Santa, in sunglasses, and his helpers wave for the camera with a recipient of gifts from Blessing Bags of Bradenton and a brunch from the Swordfish Grill in Cortez.

DECEMBER 21, 2016

www.amisun.com

THE SUN

43

OBITS from Page34

Mercedes Kiniry Graham Thornburg Mercedes Kiniry Graham Thornburg, age 88, died on Dec. 19, 2016.

She grew up in Kansas City, Mo., and attended Lillis High School and College of St. Teresa (Avila). She and her husband, Graydon, moved to Lake Tapawingo, Jackson County, Mo., in 1955. Graydon died in 1980.

Mercedes and her second husband, Jon, moved to Anna Maria Island in 1985. They were founding members of the Artists Guild of Anna Maria Island.

She was active in local politics, running for Holmes Beach City Council in the 1990s. She was a consummate patriot and Democrat. She was a past president of the Friends of the Island Library.

She was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church, where she had served on the Council and Vicar team, and was an usher.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Jon, and daughters Greta and Georgia. She is survived by daughters Gloria Graham Hickman, Gina Graham (Fred Chavez) and Gilda Brinkley (Gregg), grandchildren Lacy McCluer, Dan Hilgedick, Casey Hickman, Lauren

Mohart, Marin Chavez Collins, Kinsey and Elena Chavez, Max and Val Brinkley and five great grandchildren.

Services to be held Wednesday, Dec. 28, 2016, at Trinity Lutheran Church, 2200 26th St. W. A celebration of life will follow at Mt. Vernon Clubhouse, 4701 Independence Drive, Bradenton, between noon and 2 p.m.

In lieu of flowers the family suggests a donation to Trinity Lutheran Church or Tidewell Hospice.

S

ince 1976, Michael Saunders & Company has been focused on the exceptional: exceptional people, properties and service. Known for selling homes of distinction, respected for our outstanding agents and trusted for our commitment to service excellence, you can be sure of a rewarding experience when you choose us as your real estate partner.

LUXURY

207 Fir Avenue Anna Maria George Myers

A4170361 $1,890,000 941-224-6021 941-896-9981

JUST LISTED

5608 Gulf Drive 110 Anna Maria Island Tina Rudek, Pa

A4171272 $449,000 941-920-0303 941-383-7591

FEATURED

209 69th Street A Anna Maria Island Laurie M Mock

A4171643 $919,000 941-232-3665 941-896-9981

RENTAL

2311 Gulf Drive N Unit A Anna Maria Island A4155234 $2,000 Maria Kagin 941-779-4150 941-552-4200

To see more exceptional island properties, please visit michaelsaunders.com/anna-maria-island-real-estate

6000 MARINA DR #113 s HOLMES BEACH s 941.896.9981

44 THE SUN

www.amisun.com

BEACH BEAT

St. The officer observed the defendant at the property and knew he had been issued a trespass warning on Nov. 26.

The officer arrested him.

Anna Maria

Cortez

No new reports.

Bradenton Beach

12/4, suspicious circumstance, Sports Lounge, 118 Bridge Street. The complainant said his wallet was missing.

He was intoxicated and police and bar patrons searched for it. They found it with all of the contents except $1,200 to $1,500, he said.

12/11, Trespass after warning, 118 Bridge

12/9, information, 10319 Cortez Road W. The deputy was called to the Paradise Bay Estates Park where a homeowner had been stealing electricity from a neighboring mobile home. He was ordered to stop.

Holmes Beach

12/6, battery, 3007 Gulf Drive, Anchor Inn. The victim said a black male came into the bar and hit him in the face.

Pay tickets at courthouse kiosk A kiosk has been installed inside the front doors of the Manatee County Historic Courthouse to allow customers to pay traffic tickets or child support payments without having to go through security or stand in line. The automated kiosk will take credit cards or

exact cash. The machine is not able to provide change.

There is a $3 vendor service fee for up to the first $100 and 3 percent fee for transactions over $100. The kiosk is available during business hours Monday to Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

DECEMBER 21, 2016

www.amisun.com

DECEMBER 21, 2016

THE SUN

45

Renegades deliver holiday goods The motorcycle club came to the aid of a young woman who will soon have her kidney removed.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

BRADENTON BEACH – The Bradenton chapter of the Renegades Motorcycle Club showed up in force at the Drift In Saturday afternoon to present Sarah Fazioli and her family with gifts gathered for the holiday family the club members adopted this year.

Fazioli, 33, grew up on the Island and on Longboat Key and she now lives in Bradenton with 26-month-old baby An-

Submitted | Martha Kelley

Sarah Fazioli, center/purple shirt, is surrounded by family members and members of the Renegades Motorcycle Club Saturday afternoon. nabelle and her boyfriend Jake Davis.

Doctors recently discovered a mass on her kidney and her kidney will be removed in January.

The Renegades paid the family’s rent for a month and will also cover their January electric bill. They bought phones for Sarah and Jake, a tricycle

for Annabelle, three cases of diapers, two cases of baby wipes and brought a half dozen wrapped gifts to be opened on Christmas Day. “I can’t say enough. Those guys are amazing,” Fazioli said of the club members’ generosity.

“I think it’s amazing. I never seen so many people come together and reach out to people they barely know. It’s fantastic and we appreciate everything,” said her dad, Bill Fazioli, who lives in Bradenton Beach and is friends with many of the members.

Bill said he would soon be organizing a fund-raiser benefit to assist with the forthcoming medical bills and other expenses.

46 THE SUN

www.amisun.com

DECEMBER 21, 2016

January classes at Guild The Artists’ Guild of Anna Maria Island will offer these classes in January: • Watercolor Painting - All Levels - with Roger Rockefeller 12:30 – 2:30 p.m.

Mondays: Jan. 9, 16, 23 and 30 • Pen & Ink Drawing with Roger Rockefeller 3-5 p.m.

Mondays: Jan. 9, 16, 23, 30 • Photoshop Elements: Tools and Techniques with Mariarosa Rockefeller 3-5 p.m.

Mondays: Jan. 9, 16, 23, 30 • Acrylic Painting – Beginning - with Kathy Sparks 12:30 – 2:30 p.m.

Mondays: Jan. 2, 16, 23, 30 • Acrylic Painting - Advanced - with Kathy Sparks 3-5 p.m.

Mondays: Jan. 2, 16, 23, 30 All classes will be held at the CrossPointe Fellowship Church, 8605 Gulf Drive in Holmes Beach. The cost of the four-week sessions are $75 for Artists'

BEFORE submitted

SUBMITTED

Three instructors will offer art classes next month at the Artists’ Guild in Holmes Beach.

Guild members and $90 for non-members.

For required supplies lists and more information, call 941-778-6694 or visit www.amiartistsguildgallery.com.

AFTER

submitted

Photograph your art The Artists' Guild of Anna Maria Island will meet on Monday, Jan. 2, at the Episcopal Church of the Annunciation, 45th Street and Second Avenue in Holmes Beach, for its first meeting of the New Year.

Artist Roger Rockefeller will offer pointers on "Photographing Your Art" at 7 p.m. Social hour begins at 6:30 p.m.

Rockefeller is a photographer for the Florida Suncoast Watercolor Society, and works with watercolor, colored pencil and pen and ink.

He also teaches at the Artists’ Guild of Anna Maria Island.

The event is free and open to the public. For more information, call 941-778-6694 or visit www.amiartistsguildgallery.com.

League accepting submissions The Anna Maria Island Art League is currently accepting submissions for its January “Portraits” exhibit.

The all-media exhibition is open to all area artists. Themes may include self-portraits, animals, faces seen in an object or other portraits, and may be symbolic, traditional or abstract. The size must be no larger than 22 inches by 34 inches.

Please bring submissions to the Art League, 5312 Holmes Boulevard, Holmes Beach, open between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, no later than Monday, Jan. 9.

The opening reception will be on Friday, Jan. 13 from 5:307:30 p.m.

The entry fee is $15 for members and $25 for non-members for each entry, with a limit of three entries per artist.

For more information, call Fran Sansbury, gallery assistant, at 941-778-2099 or visit the gallery.

submitted

DECEMBER 21, 2016

SPORTS

47

THE SUN

Team Acqua Aveda cleans up against Jiffy Lube

BY MONICA SIMPSON SPECIAL TO THE SUN

Heading into the seventh week of adult co-ed recreational soccer play at The Center, the top of the charts stays tight with Team Mason Martin and Team Ross Built Construction with the same record, but Mason Martin ranked in first place currently with their win over Ross Built last week.

Also with the same record, Team Acqua Aveda and Jiffy Lube went head-to-head under the lights Wednesday night. Acqua Aveda’s win landed them in the sixth place rank over Jiffy Lube and Team Slim’s Place with one win in the season.

Wednesday night saw the two teams, which on paper have the talent to capture the league championship, work the field with strong passes and teamwork. The break away scoring by team captain Eric Pullen gave Team Acqua Aveda the spark they needed to capture the win.

With Will Case in goal for Pullen’s team and Richard Anderson as the keeper for Jiffy Lube, the first half of play ended scoreless. The scoreboard did not reflect the strong shots by Jiffy Lube’s Murat Akay and Acqua Aveda’s Nathan Kragt.

Big defensive clears by Sean Flynn for Acqua Aveda and steals off the feet of Pullen by Jiffy Lube’s team captain Danny Anderson made the second of play critical.

As the scoreboard showed 20 minutes of play left in the game, Ed Moss took over in the Jiffy Lube goal. Taking advantage of the quick play down the field, Kragt’s shot on goal went just past the hands of Moss to score the first goal of the game in the first 90 seconds of the half.

Using the scoring momentum, Acqua Aveda’s Steve Oelfke took a shot off of his head that was saved by Moss, keeping the score at 1-0.

Showing the team’s depth, Acqua Aveda scored their second point with a header by Pullen to Kragt who passed the soccer ball cross field throwing the Jiffy Lube defense in the wrong direction, allowing Flynn to score with the big boot past Moss.

Not to be outdone, D. Anderson scored his first goal of the night for Jiffy Lube with 14 minutes left in the game.

Quickly taking the ball back on

monica simpson | SUN

Jiffy Lube’s team captain, Danny Anderson, moved the ball offensively for his team Wednesday night against Team Acqua Aveda. offense, Jiffy Lube took a shot that went off of goalie Case putting D. Anderson’s team in position to score again with a corner kick.

R. Anderson took the corner kick getting the ball to D. Anderson for the quick tying goal.

With the score 2-2, the Kragt-Pullen combination struck again. Kragt kicked a strong through pass to Pullen who was past midfield. Pullen took the ball down the sideline preparing for a driving shot into the net.

Returning to the goal R. Anderson settled in to protect the net.

Minutes later, an identical look on the field allowed Pullen to shake off a defender right out side of the box to score the fourth goal for his team, advancing the score to 4-2.

Pullen captured a hat trick with three Jiffy Lube defenders chasing him down the field with four minutes left on the game clock.

Down three points, Jiffy Lube continued to press on knowing that a few

quick shots could make a difference.

Akay scored after a strong pass by D. Anderson, closing the scoring gap to 5-3 with less than a minute on the clock.

R. Anderson saved what would have been goal number four for Pullen.

Knowing it was do or die, R. Anderson dribbled the ball out of the box looking for a scoring opportunity for Jiffy Lube.

The final whistle of the game sounded, giving Acqua Aveda the victory over Jiffy Lube.

Leading into the winter break, Ross Built Construction faces #4 ranked Wash Family Construction on Dec. 22, at 6 p.m. Middle of the pack Eason Builders Group plays Slim’s Place in the second game of the night. Jiffy Lube takes on the top ranked Mason Martin in the 8 p.m. game. The final game of the night pits Acqua Aveda against Anna Maria CrossFit.

Sun Scoreboard Tuesday, December 13 Adult Basketball

#3 Mike Walter & Associates #2 Harry’s Grill

67 59

#4 Intechgrate Systems #5 Blake Medical

52 33

#1 Beach To Bay

Thursday, December 15 Adult Co-Ed Soccer

BYE

Eason Builders Group Anna Maria CrossFit

4 3

Acqua Aveda Jiffy Lube

5 3

Mason Martin Ross Built Construction

6 3

Wash Family Construction Slim’s Place

2 1

48 THE SUN

www.amisun.com

DECEMBER 21, 2016

cards: Maro aces ceremony FROM PAGE 1

Shearon and Commissioner John Chappie favored Maro, while commissioners Ralph Cole and Jake Spooner favored Leister.

As stipulated in the city charter, City Clerk Terri Sanclemente supervised the tie-breaking effort that was similar to the card cutting ceremony overseen by Supervisor of Elections Mike Bennett in 2015 to decide the tied mayor’s race.

Sanclemente shuffled the new deck of cards and removed the jokers before Maro drew the winning card that Leister was unable to match. Maro was then sworn into office and the meeting was adjourned.

Maro will serve the remainder of the

two-year commission term that runs through November, 2018, and she will be paid $400 a month for her service to the city.

She is a retired cosmetologist and cosmetology instructor who also owned two hair salons at one point in her career. She has lived in Bradenton Beach for nearly 19 years and she was accompanied to last week’s meeting by her husband Eddie.

Maro has never served in public office before, but she attended most of the city meetings that took place in the past few months and this has given her a good understanding of the issues the commission is and has been dealing with.

When discussing her fortunate draw,

mark your calendar From Page 7

Maria, 11 a.m. Bring two cans of fruit of equal size and weight.

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

Saturday Dec. 24

American contract bridge league, open pairs duplicate bridge games, Aging in Paradise Resource Center, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, second floor, 9 a.m. to noon, $10 per game with snacks included. Reserve to maryannbrady@aginginparadise.org or 941-383-6493.

Monday Dec. 26

Movement, muscles and more, Aging in Paradise Resource Center, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, second floor, 8 to 9 a.m., $8 per class. Reserve to maryannbrady@aginginparadise.org or 941-383-6493.

Gentle Yoga & Meditation with Joan Dickerson, Anna Maria Island Art League, 5312 Holmes Blvd., Holmes Beach, 10:45 to 11:45 a.m., $12. Bring a mat.

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

Tuesday Dec. 27

Historic Valentine House open house, Robinson Preserve, 99th Street Northwest and 17th Avenue Northwest, Bradenton, 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Boomer Boot camp, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, 10 to 11 a.m. One class, $15; five classes, $65; 10 classes, $100.

Duplicate bridge, Church of the Annunciation, 4408 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, 12:30 p.m.

American contract bridge league, open pairs duplicate bridge games, Aging in Paradise Resource Center, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, second floor, 1 to 4 p.m., $10 per game with snacks included. Reserve to maryannbrady@aginginparadise.org or 941-383-6493.

Lego club, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2 p.m.

Wednesday Dec. 28

Movement, muscles and more, Aging in Paradise Resource Center, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, second floor, 8 to 9 a.m., $8 per class. Reserve to maryannbrady@aginginparadise.org or 941-383-6493.

Roser-Robics chair-based exercise class, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, 9:30 a.m. Bring two cans of fruit of equal size and weight.

Beach Market, Coquina Beach, Bradenton Beach, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Early Settler’s Bread for sale, AMI Historical Museum, 402 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., $5.

Einstein’s Circle discussions, The Center of AMI, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria, 11 a.m.

Coloring Club, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 12 p.m.

Gentle chair yoga, Anna Maria Island Art League, 5312 Holmes Blvd., Holmes Beach, noon to 12:45 p.m. $12. Space limited.

Chess Club, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2 p.m.

Thursday Dec. 29

Naturalist-led wagon tour, Robinson Preserve, 99th Street Northwest and 17th Avenue Northwest, Bradenton, 9 to 10 a.m., first come, first served.

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

Boomer Boot camp, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, 10 to 11 a.m. One class, $15; five classes, $65; 10 classes, $100.

Zumba for beginners, Aging in Paradise Resource Center, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, second floor, 10 to 10:45 a.m., $10 per class. Reserve to maryannbrady@ aginginparadise.org or 941-383-6493.

American contract bridge league, open pairs duplicate bridge games, Aging in Paradise Resource Center, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, second floor, 1 to 4 p.m., $10

TOM VAUGHT | SUN

Newly-appointed city commissioner Marilyn Maro displays the ace of spades that earned her a two-year term in office.

Maro said, “I was so nervous when I cut those cards. I didn’t even look at it when I held it up. I didn’t expect that, but I was so happy. I would have never dreamed in my wildest dreams I would pull an ace of spades. I have it sitting on my refrigerator.” per game with snacks included. Reserve to maryannbrady@aginginparadise.org or 941-383-6493.

Minecraft Hour of Code for teens, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2 p.m.

Jam in the sand, Manatee Beach, 4000 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, 5 to 8 p.m.

Friday Dec. 30

Movement, muscles and more, Aging in Paradise Resource Center, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, second floor, 8 to 9 a.m., $8 per class. Reserve to maryannbrady@aginginparadise.org or 941-383-6493.

Naturalist-led wagon tour, Robinson Preserve, 99th Street Northwest and 17th Avenue Northwest, Bradenton, 9 to 10 a.m., first come, first served.

Bridge beginners/refresher class, 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.

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

Roser-Robics chair-based exercise class, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, 11 a.m. Bring two cans of fruit of equal size and weight.

Glow in the Dark Slime, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2 p.m.

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

Saturday Dec. 31

American contract bridge league, open pairs duplicate bridge games, Aging in Paradise Resource Center, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, second floor, 9 a.m. to noon, $10 per game with snacks included. Reserve to maryannbrady@aginginparadise.org or 941-383-6493.

Sunday Jan. 1

Beach Market, Coquina Beach, Bradenton Beach, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

In regard to the work that awaits her, Maro said, “You have to pay attention. You have to read a lot and there’s going to be a lot to it. I really want to thank all the people who supported me through this whole thing. I’m just so grateful and I hope to do a really good job.”

The first city meeting Maro will participate in will be the commission workshop on Tuesday, Dec. 27, which pertains to an agreement with Manatee County to transfer stormwater billing from the city to the county. Maro’s first regular commission meeting will be Thursday, Jan. 5.

As the newly-appointed Ward 2 commissioner, Maro also automatically earned a seat on the Community Redevelopment Agency that consists of the four other commission members and recently appointed members John Horne and Ed Chiles.

Monday Jan. 2

Movement, muscles and more, Aging in Paradise Resource Center, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, second floor, 8 to 9 a.m., $8 per class. Reserve to maryannbrady@aginginparadise.org or 941-383-6493.

Gentle Yoga & Meditation with Joan Dickerson, Anna Maria Island Art League, 5312 Holmes Blvd., Holmes Beach, 10:45 to 11:45 a.m., $12. Bring a mat.

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

Tuesday Jan. 3

Boomer Boot camp, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, 10 to 11 a.m. One class, $15; five classes, $65; 10 classes, $100.

Duplicate bridge, Church of the Annunciation, 4408 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, 12:30 p.m.

American contract bridge league, open pairs duplicate bridge games, Aging in Paradise Resource Center, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, second floor, 1 to 4 p.m., $10 per game with snacks included. Reserve to maryannbrady@aginginparadise.org or 941-383-6493.

Wednesday Jan. 4

Movement, muscles and more, Aging in Paradise Resource Center, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, second floor, 8 to 9 a.m., $8 per class. Reserve to maryannbrady@aginginparadise.org or 941-383-6493.

Roser-Robics chair-based exercise class, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, 9:30 a.m. Bring two cans of fruit of equal size and weight.

Beach Market, Coquina Beach, Bradenton Beach, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Early Settler’s Bread for sale, AMI Historical Museum, 402 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., $5.

Einstein’s Circle discussions, The Center of AMI, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria, 11 a.m.

Gentle chair yoga, Anna Maria Island Art League, 5312 Holmes Blvd., Holmes Beach, noon to 12:45 p.m. $12. Space limited.

DECEMBER 21, 2016

www.amisun.com

THE SUN

49

SPORTS BRIEFS Adult volleyball league at The Center Sign up for the adult co-ed volleyball league at The Center of Anna Maria Island. Create a team with a maximum of six players to join the league or sign up individually and be placed on a team.

Each team must have at least one female on the floor at all times. Games will be played on Tuesday nights and games will start on Tuesday, Jan. 17.

The last day to register is Jan. 6. Register online at www.Centerami.org, at The Center at 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria, or by calling 941-778-1908.

To sponsor a team or for information, contact Will Schenerlein, recreation director, at will@centerami. org or 941-778-1908, ext. 9205.

Hoseshoes bragging rights Two teams squared off in the final on Dec. 14 after each went 3 and 0 during pool play. Bob Lee was looking for his sixth win in a row and was well on his way after he and partner Gene Bobeldyk jumped out to an early 15 to 0 lead over walker Bob Palmer, but Palmer answered with 22 points in a row to win 22 to 15 and earn the days bragging rights. Dec. 17 action had three teams move into the knockout round after going 3 and 0. Steve Doyle and Palmer drew the bye while Tim Sofran and Tom Farrinton moved into the final with a 24 to 20 win over Bob Mason and Rod Bussey. Doyle and Palmer rolled into the winner’s circle after taking out Sofran and Farrinton 22 to 6.

50 THE SUN

www.amisun.com

DECEMBER 21, 2016

Beach renourishment continues

BY CINDY LANE SUN STAFF WRITER | clane@amisun.com

BRADENTON BEACH – Beach renourishment projects to improve Anna Maria Island’s beaches will continue at the Longboat Pass jetty in two to three years, according to Charlie Hunsicker, manager of the Manatee County Parks and Natural Resources Department.

Known as the “terminal groin” at the south end of Coquina Beach, the 60-yearold structure is becoming porous, he told the Manatee County Tourist Development Council this month.

A geotextile tube placed alongside the jetty has worked well to keep sand from spilling into the pass, but is deteriorating and will be removed soon, he said. The jetty reconstruction will cost at least $5 million.

The county completed three permeable, adjustable erosion control groins in Bradenton Beach this year known as Twin Piers (a third “pier” was added after the name stuck) to protect Gulf Drive from stormwater erosion. The causeway that extended Gulf Drive when the bridge to Longboat Key was built has been vulnerable to flooding ever since, and would likely be swept away without the new $7.8 million groins,

CINDY LANE | SUN

The Longboat Pass jetty at the end of Coquina Beach in Bradenton Beach will be rebuilt in the next two to three years. he said.

Coquina Beach is set for renourishment in 2020 and the central part of the Island is scheduled for 2021-22.

There are no plans to replace the fishing pier at Manatee Beach at the end of Manatee Avenue Hunsicker said. The pier was removed in 2010 because it was unsafe.

Built in the early 1960s to help stabilize the beach, the pier is no longer needed for that purpose because beach renourishments to

the north and south of the pier’s location now serve to stabilize the beach, he said, adding that state requirements would mandate that a new pier be 11-12 feet high.

The county’s beach renourishment program began in 1992 in Bradenton Beach and Holmes Beach after a house slid into the Gulf of Mexico in a no-name storm, Hunsicker said.

In 2002, the beach around the Sandbar Restaurant in Anna Maria was renourished,

he said, followed by a project in 2005-06 and the renourishment of Coquina Beach and Anna Maria in 2011 and Coquina Beach again in 2013/14.

Sand just offshore of Bean Point in Anna Maria was used because the price was right, but the use of that sand has caused some unforeseen consequences, he said.

If the natural rhythm of the sand flow had not been disturbed, that sand would have flowed south to naturally renourish the south end of Anna Maria Island over time.

“As we take more sand from the shoals, we may be robbing Peter to Paul,” he said.

Some beachfront communities truck sand from Orlando, which was formed millions of years ago when the Gulf of Mexico was much closer to the middle of the state, but transportation is expensive compared to using offshore sand.

Renourishment is funded with one of the five “pennies” of the county’s 5 percent tourist development tax charged to renters here for six month or less, Hunsicker said.

The federal government also contributes to renourishment, as it did after Hurricane Sandy. The county will investigate obtaining FEMA assistance for Anna Maria and Coquina Beach due to impacts from Hurricane Hermine this fall, he said.

www.amisun.com

DECEMBER 21, 2016

THE SUN

51

Alternative parking plan discussed The committee’s preliminary discussions will continue in January and any final recommendations will require city, county and state approval.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

BRADENTON BEACH – The Scenic W.A.V.E.S. Committee would like to help develop a parking plan for Cortez Beach that would serve as an alternate to a parking garage.

Cortez Beach is located along the west side of Gulf Drive, a couple blocks south of Bridge Street; and across the bridge in the Village of Cortez as its name suggests.

Committee chair Tjet Martin introduced this idea at the committee’s Nov. 30 meeting. When doing so, she rolled out a 10-foot long banner-like aerial map she obtained from the county.

“There’s a lot of talk about a parking garage in Bradenton Beach and I for one really don’t want a parking garage,” she said In September, Mayor Bill Shearon proposed building a parking garage next to the public works and police department buildings, but it was quickly determined there was not enough space at that location to accommodate a parking facility. Commissioner Jake Spooner then suggested the city purchase the Joe’s Eats & Sweets property at the corner of Gulf Drive and Third Street South or enter into a public-private partnership with the property owner and build a parking garage there.

joe hendricks | SUN

The volunteer board is recommending a reconfiguration of the parking spaces at Cortez Beach, south of Bridge Street and west of Gulf Drive.

Spooner’s suggestion was met with some interest from the other commissioners, but with greater resistance from some residents and it has not been discussed indepth since October.

When explaining the parking plan she has in mind, Martin referenced a 1994 task force that conducted a corridor management study that included a proposed parking plan for Cortez Beach, which extends from Fourth Street South to the S-curve near 13th Street South.

“We cannot find the Cortez Beach parking plan, it’s gone. It doesn’t exist anymore, so we’re going to go back to the drawing board,” Martin said.

She said the 1994 plan indicated the parking area near at Fourth and Fifth streets was too narrow to accommodate cars backing in and out. She suggested that area be blocked off for use for bicycle parking and as a pick-up and drop-off point for the jitneys and shuttles that would transport

people to Bridge Street and other desired destinations.

She suggested herringbone style, one-way parking from Fifth Street South to Ninth Street South, with an entrance and exit located there. Martin said this would still leave room for additional parking from Ninth Street to 13th Street.

Martin said City Planner Alan Garrett was a parking expert and has offered his assistance.

“It’s something we need to talk about and I’d really like us to spearhead this for the city,” Martin said.

“Anything that pushes back on a parking garage I’m in favor of,” committee member Bill Vincent said.

The committee unanimously agreed to continuing working on the development of a potential parking plan and will discuss it again at its January meeting.

When completed, the recommending body’s plan would require the city commission approval, as well as county and FDOT approval.

A mermaid Christmas On Saturday afternoon, Merissa Mort, Christine Conradis and their canine companions joined the many folks who have recently posed for a photo in front of the snow woman-themed mermaid decoration that stands in front the Bridge Tender Inn & Dockside Bar in Bradenton Beach. For a few days the wintery mermaid decorated the roundabout near the entrance to the Historic Bridge Street Pier, but on Monday, Dec. 12, manager Shannon Dunnan was told she had 48 hours to remove the festive but unauthorized holiday display that had been placed on city property.

CHANTELLE LEWIN | SUN

52 THE SUN

FUN IN THE SUN

Across 1 Asset for Sherlock 6 Fast 11 Additional information?

14 Important period 15 Eat into 16 What makes a deal ideal?

17 Elaborate costume parties 19 Pickle 20 "Zip it!"

21 Prosperity 22 "Blah, blah, blah," for short 24 Golden __ 25 "I used to be Snow White, but I __": Mae West 26 Part of the pelvis 29 In essence 30 "Bor-r-ring" 31 LPGA great Lopez 32 Green shade 35 Rare blood type, briefly 36 Shakespearean barmaid 37 Picky details 38 "But __ got high hopes ... ": song lyric 39 Neutral tone 40 Prefix with -gram 41 Like angel food cake 43 Curry favor with, with "to" 44 Ill-mannered 46 Veers suddenly 47 Distance runners 48 First name in folk 49 How it's always done, initially 52 Heat meas.

53 Places for seeing stars?

56 CSA soldier

57 Green shade 58 Fragrances 59 Pack animal 60 Snooped (around) 61 "Check" Down 1 NASA vehicles 2 Fish with vermilion fins 3 "Jeepers!"

4 "Ugh!" 5 Enjoy Orbit 6 Masonry-reinforcing rod 7 Inland Asian sea 8 D.C. player 9 Set-for-life set 10 Lot 11 What can help you avoid getting stuck changing diapers?

12 Form a coalition 13 Personalized collection of love songs, say 18 Consider 23 Toronto Argonauts' org.

24 "... bug in __" 25 Hustle or shuffle 26 Former Mideast ruler 27 Tops 28 Groups with a piece-

Answers to 12-14-16 Crossword Puzzle.

keeping strategy?

29 Like many a stray dog 31 Bay sound 33 Incredulous dying words 34 "Hurry!" letters 36 Tried to make it on one's own 37 Storied loch 39 New Orleans' __ Street 40 Crude smelting product 42 "Once upon a midnight dreary" poet 43 Two-checker piece 44 Eclipse shadow 45 Times in ads 46 Daydreamed, with "out" 48 Nonsense talk, whose circled letter is the start of what might be done with items in the four longest puzzle answers 49 Stuffed shirt 50 Brutish one 51 "You there!"

54 Ones following the nus?

55 Court promise

DECEMBER 21, 2016

DECEMBER 21, 2016

classified

ANNOUNCEMENTS

CARPET CLEANING

EARLY DEADLINES FOR CLASSIFIED ADS FOR THE HOLIDAYS. The deadline for the December 28 edition will be at noon on December 23. The deadline for the January 4 edition will be December 30 at noon.

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

BEACH YOGA ON Saturdays & Sundays at 8:30am at the end of Pine Ave by the Sandbar Restaurant by donation. www. thriveyogafit.com

C & T HOUSEKEEPING. For all your cleaning needs. Free Estimates.

Reasonable rates. Senior discount. References available. Call 941-9622512

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

CLEANING: RESIDENTIAL, COMMERCIAL & RENTALS. "Have it done your way, we care about our work" Call 941-7564570

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).

AUTOMOTIVE SALES & SERVICE 2007 HONDA SILVERWING For Sale One owner, 600 cc auto transmission motorcycle, 15000 miles. Many additions, well maintained, garage kept. Excellent condition. $4000 Call 941778-2553.

GOT A CAR You Wanna Sell.

The Good, The Bad or The Ugly.

Call Now 727-400-1910

BABY SITTER RED CROSS CERTIFIED baby sitter. Honor student.

Call or text Isabel 941-5457995

BOATS: PARTS & SERVICES & SALES BOAT SALES-17 YEARS. Snowbird Buyers Arriving. Islandboatsales.net "Business On A Hand Shake" Owner & Island Resident.

941-228-3489 -Dave MALONE KAYAK TRAILER for 2 to 3 kayaks. Stored in Garage. Call 941-778-4086

Call us today! 941-778-3986

PRESSURE CLEANING and WINDOW WASHING residential, commercial & resorts. Roofs, buildings, houses, driveways.

Paver Sealing & Cleaning etc. Call 941-565-3935

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

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 ACORN STAIRLIFT right side double rise. $1000. 941725-0900.

GARAGE, MOVING, RUMMAGE & YARD SALES ROSER THRIFT SHOP and ANNEX, Open Tuesday and Thursdays 9:30am-2 pm and Saturdays 10am1pm.. Donations preferred Wednesdays 9 - 11 a.m.

511 Pine Ave, Anna Maria.

941-779-2733

HOME IMPROVEMENTS TILE! TILE! TILE! All variations of tile supplied and installed. Quality workmanship. Prompt, reliable, many Island references. Free estimates.

Neil 941-726-3077 RENOVATION SPECALIST ALL carpentry repairs, Wash Family Construction, locally owned and operated CBC 1258250 Call 941-7250073.

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 HOME IMPROVEMENT Michigan General Contractor 30+ yrs. experience. Large or small projects. Budget minded knowledgeable tradesman will complete your project start to finish: On Time/On Budget. Call Mike 616-204-8822.

WALY PRECISION PAINTING: painting, drywall, stucco, and remodeling, commercial/residential, licensed & insured. Call 941-448-1928 or 941-4656324 www.WalyPrecisionPainting.us SHEETROCK/DRYWALL REPAIRS install & finish.

STUCCO Repairs. All wall & ceiling textures. All home maintenance & repairs. 30 years experience. Free Estimates! Call 941-321-0482

HOME SERVICES SERVICE MASTER by WRIGHT. Commercial/Residential. Fire, Water & Mold clean up. 24/7 Emergency Service. Call 941-753-8565 DSpringer@svmaster.net

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

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE NORMS TOWING gives Notice of Foreclosure of Lien and intent to sell these vehicles on 12/28//2016 9:00am at 1855 63rd Ave E Bradenton FL 34203 pursuant to subsection 713.78 of the Florida Statutes.

NORMS TOWING reserves the right to accept or reject any and/or all bids 2012 Nissan Vin 3N1CN7AP5CLA19828 2000 Nissan Vin JN8R07Y0YW38293 1996 Mercury Vin 2MELM75W8TX687773 2004 Trail Blazer Vin 1GNDT135642350892 2006 Acura TL Vin 19UUA66216A015900

LOST & FOUND FOUND CAT grey and white friendly cat found on 63rd street Holmes Beach, near boat ramp. Dec 4. Call 813-546-3982 LOST MY GRANDMOTHER'S gold wedding band (initials inside and date) at Coquina Beach area. Reward.

Call 407-579-1621 LOST TENNIS BRACELET Gold with Diamonds around. Near Dog Park or Publix. REWARD! Call 941778-2494 LOST MAN’S SILVER Wedding Ring, silver with stones mounted. Lost at Coquina Beach near restrooms. Please Call 813413-3373

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

AMISUN.COM

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

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

941-812-0507 “WIZARD OF WALLS” Established 1980 Prompt quality service.

Paperhanging/removal Faux finishes. Interior painting. Mary Bell 941794-0455 BAYSIDE COMMERCIAL PAINTING. David Padyani Call 941-565-9446 or Larry Zimmer 941-2248123 Licensed & Insured DONALD PERKINS PAINTING LLC fully insured. 30 years experience. Many Island references. Call 941-7057096

POOL SERVICES FOUR SEASONS POOL SERVICE. AMI & West Bradenton. Certified Pool Operator. Residential/commercial. Chemical Service Licensed & Insured. Call Dennis Clark 941-737-5657 COLE'S TROPICAL POOL SERVICE Call Cole Bowers for all your pool maintenance needs! Affordable and Dependable!! 941-7131893

REAL ESTATE HOMES & CONDOS FOR SALE CANAL FRONT BAY VIEW 3BR/3BA dock & lift, 2 car garage W. Bradenton CONDO 2,376 sq.ft.

Island Real Estate Call AL Galletto 941-232-2216

53

STARTING FROM THE UPPER 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 941-254-3330 www.MirabellaFlorida.com 106 WILLOW RENOVATED Cottage. 1 in from Beach, beautiful pool/spa. Lush landscaping $1,197,000.

Call Charles Buky Coldwell Banker 941-228-6086 FIND REAL ESTATE at brokersandra.com. Call Sandra Glantz 941-7999229 Licensed Real Estate Professional with Wagner Realty. Call for free market analysis.

BAY FRONT HOME Palma Sola W. Bradenton 4000sq.ft. 4BR/3.5BA 4 car garage. Stunning cathedral ceilings. No Island traffic! Island Real Estate Ask AL Galletto 941-232-2216

RENTALS: ANNUAL 2BR/2BA LARGE CONDO in park like setting, pool, sauna, tennis and sauna. W/D in unit, water, sewer, trash and cable included. No trucks or motorcycles.

NO PETS ! security system can be activated.

Available immediately. $1350/mo rent & security. $100 application fee.

2BR2BA WATERFRONT large condo with deep wet boat slip, pool and covered parking. Beautiful gourmet kitchen w/ new appliances. New floors through out. W/D in unit, water, sewer, trash, pest control and basic cable. NO PETS ! Available Jan. 1. $1800/mo. rent & security. $100 application fee all persons 18 and older must pass background & credit check. Ask for Ed. DUNCAN REAL ESTATE 941-779-0304 www. teamduncan.com

54 THE SUN

classified

RENTALS: ANNUAL WEST BRADENTON San Remo 4011 Plumosa Terrace 2BR/2BA/1CG on Salt Water Canal. W/D hookups, Large lanai & yard plus dock Bring your boat! $1900/mo unfurnished. First, & Security.

Credit check. Lease option possible. Call JoAnn 941809-2488 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. 2BR/2BA FURNISHED BAYFRONT Condo at Shellpoint $1750-Annual lease.

Longboat Key Studios $975 month to month lease only. Call A Paradise 941778-4800 WEST BRADENTON: HOUSE 723 35th St W adorable 1BR + Bonus room 1BA/1CG fenced yard $1100/mo. One Year Lease. First / Security and Credit Check. Call 941-8092488

Call us today! 941-778-3986

HOLMES BEACH ANNUAL: Pool view & partial bay view from this 2nd floor, 2BR/2BA condo in W. Bay Pt. Moorings. Spacious 1377 sq. ft. light & bright unit with new paint and bedroom floors. Ready January 1st. $1990/mo.

Call Island Real Estate 941-778-6066 ANNUAL HOLMES BEACH 1BR/1BA. Newly renovated includes water, Dish TV, W/D, trash. No smoking. $1300/mo First, Last & Security. Call 860-922-3857

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

WILLKOMMEN AUF AMI! Besuchen Sie Island Real Estate in einem unserer Inselbüros (6101 Marina Drive oder 419 Pine Ave) mit unserem deutschsprachigen Reservierungsservice und erhalten ein freies Island Real Estate Baseball Cap! Wir geben Ihnen gerne mehr Auskunft über unsere 250 ausgewählte Feriendomizile für Ihren nächsten Urlaub!

WATER FRONT 2BR/2BA & 2BR/1BA vacation rentals. www.annamariaheronslanding.com Anna Maria Island Bradenton Beach.

Call 713-498-3549 VACATION RENTALS AVAILABLE Winter 20172BR/1BA N End Cottage available January & March, 2BR/2BA Pool Home Jan - March, 1BR/1BA Villa JanMarch, 3BR/2BA Pool Home avail Jan-Mar. Contact Fran Maxon Real Estate for rates 941-7782307.

DECEMBER 21, 2016

SEASONAL RENTALS AVAILABLE: January, February, March & April. HOLMES BEACH: 2BR/1BA ground level. Block to Gulf.

ANNA MARIA (monthly minimum): 2BR/2BA & 2BR/1BA Both ground level and Close to Beach.

2BR/1BA Gulf Front. Second story. Horizon Realty of Anna Maria 941-7780426 kringco@tampabay. rr.com GROUND FLOOR 1BR/1BA Beach Front Condo. Available May thru October. 2 months minimum. Senior Complex. All amenities included. 2 heated pools. No smokers/ no pets. $1800/mo. + utilities + taxes. Contact 941-737-3273 WEST COAST TREASURE 3BR/2BA fully furnished home. Available now! NW Bradenton (Palma Sola).

4 miles from Beach.

Nightly/Weekly/Monthly.

Reasonable Rental Rates.

Call 941-201-2190

1BR 100 STEPS TO BEACH. January, February & April $950/wk $3200/mo. Full Kitchen, Fenced yard, Ground floor, Gas grill. Call 816-729-57146 100 STEPS TO BEACH. Beautiful 2BR Full eat in kitchen. King Bed & Queen Bed, Courtyard, Fenced yard. Ground floor. Beach view Call 816-729-5146 HOLMES BEACH- WESTBAY COVE Condo. Second floor with views of Bay and Lush landscaping. 2BR/2BA, large lanai & laundry room.

2 heated pools, tennis courts. 1 Block to Gulf Beach. Available December, January $2800/mo March $3200/mo 30 day minimum. terryaposporos@gmail.com or Call 941-778-8456 HOLMES BEACH RUNAWAY BAY Condo.

Ground floor 2BR/2BA. Pool & tennis. No Pets/ Smoking. Walk to Beach.

Available Now! Call 941779-1043

TRANSPORTATION AMI TAXI metered-on-callcards accepted. Airport: Tampa $85, Sarasota $35, Clearwater $75, Fort Meyers $150, Orlando $150.

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

www.amisun.com

DECEMBER 21, 2016

business & service directory computer service

home improvement

home improvement

THE SUN

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

transportation

movers

55

56 THE SUN

www.amisun.com

DECEMBER 21, 2016