Anna Maria Island Sun December 9, 2015

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VOL 16 No. 6

December 9, 2015

Grace and beauty Pat Copeland | Sun

Dancers from the Diane Partington Studio of Classical Ballet delighted the crowd at Lester Family Fun Day with selections from Tschaikovsky’s “Nutcracker Suite.” See more Lester Day photos on Page 10.

Vacation rental lawsuit dismissed The registration for vacation rentals will begin Jan. 1 and the ordinance will take effect April 1.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA – One of two lawsuits filed in objection to the vacation rental ordinance has been dismissed.

During an emergency City Commission meeting Tuesday morning, the attending commissioners voted 3-0 in favor of the motion to accept the settlement agreement brokered by City

INSIDE NEWS OPINION Sun survey OUTDOORS FOOTBALL FEVER town crier real estate OBITS

4 6 7 26-27 28-29 30 34-39 42

Attorney Becky Vose, the city’s mediation team that also included Mayor Dan Murphy and Commissioner Carol Carter, and the legal representatives for the lawsuit plaintiffs.

The plaintiffs in the suit originally filed on May 22 were Timothy and Kimberly Iafolla, Carol Roaldi, Salouh Florida LLC, Rysal Enterprises. Seven Emeralds LLC, Island Real Estate and Anna Maria Island Vacation Property Association.

The joint notice of dismissal without prejudice presented by Vose said, “All

Moratorium request discarded The commission’s next chance to discuss bedroom restrictions will come during the review of the land development code.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

BRADENTON BEACH – Mayor Bill Shearon tried to fulfill his campaign pledge to enact a building moratorium, but could not garner enough commission support to do so.

During the Thursday, Dec. 3, City

Commission meeting, Shearon asked the commission to direct City Attorney Ricinda Perry to turn a previously tabled draft moratorium ordinance into a fully-developed moratorium ordinance to be presented for commission consideration in January.

The proposed moratorium called for a six-month suspension of building permits being issued for houses containing five or more bedrooms and duplexes containing three or more bedrooms per side, applicable to the see moratorium, page 44

see LAWSUIT, page 44

The feast

Holiday HAPPENINGS ARE EVERY-

restaurant:

WHERE ON AMI. 4-5

Casual and fine dining. 14

Longbar Pointe developer still pushing for marina. 38

Anna Maria Island, Florida

The Island’s award-winning weekly newspaper

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DECEMBER 9, 2015

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DECEMBER 9, 2015

THE SUN

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Port Dolphin’s demise celebrated

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

Local environmentalists and some local officials applaud Port Dolphin Energy’s decision to abandon its plans to build a liquid natural gas port 28 miles off Anna Maria Island and a 42-mile-long underwater pipeline to Port Manatee.

Norway-based parent company Höegh LNG confirmed last week that due to market changes, it will not build the proposed submersible port where tankers would have converted liquid natural gas (LNG) into vapor, pumped it into a pipeline landing at Port Manatee, and delivered it to energy suppliers.

“It’s good news,” said ManaSota-88 Director Glenn Compton, an early opponent of the project, which began more than a decade ago.

“We were concerned with the environmental impact of a new pipeline coming into the area,” as well as the visual impact of the port from Anna Maria Island’s beaches, he said.

The group had charged that a twovolume environmental impact statement completed by the U.S. Coast Guard underestimated Port Dolphin’s environmental impacts on wetlands, navigation and wildlife.

Suzi Fox, director of Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring, said she is glad that there will be no impact on the migration, feeding and mating of sea turtles and other marine life.

“If there are sources to get natural gas from other than the Gulf of Mexico, that’s better,” said Bradenton Beach Mayor Bill Shearon, adding that he would have had “a real concern” if the port had been visible from the beach.

Holmes Beach Mayor Bob Johnson said he also was happy not to have a port on the horizon.

Market changes

The Port Dolphin project was geared to importing natural gas, but in today’s market, the U.S. is an exporter, said Dave Sanford, deputy executive director for Port Manatee, where Port Dolphin had planned to land its underwater pipeline.

Port Dolphin’s annual $50,000 easement option on Port Manatee property expires at the end of this year, Sanford said, adding that the port is “not anticipating any negative consequences” from Port Dolphin’s decision not to move forward with the project.

New technology and sources of natural gas discovered since Port Dolphin’s proposal have led to an abundance of domestic

“It’s good news. We were concerned with the environmental impact of a new pipeline coming into the area.”

Glenn Compton ManaSota-88 director natural gas, said a spokesman for Gulfstream Natural Gas, which operates a pipeline near Port Dolphin’s proposed path and opposed the project in comments filed with the U.S. Federal Energy Regulatory Commission.

Port Dolphin initiated its project after major hurricanes in 2004-05, when Florida was experiencing supply interruptions coming out of Gulf due to hurricane damage, said Jack Reid, of Seminole Electric, which commented favorably on Port Dolphin’s proposal during the permitting process.

Since then, “Reliability has been increased and we have found other ways to store gas in case there are interruptions,” he said, adding that much more onshore gas is available now from Pennsylvania, Texas, Oklahoma and Louisiana.

The decision to abandon the project may cost Manatee County potential tax revenues, and may cost the state jobs, he said.

It will also cost Manatee County and the town of Longboat Key up to $5 million each,

under an agreement among Port Dolphin, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission that would have required Port Dolphin to pay Manatee County and Longboat Key up to $5.5 million each to fund removal of sand from the pipeline path to mitigate the loss of submerged beach renourishment sand reserves.

The county and the town each received $500,000 from Port Dolphin through the DEP fund, said Charlie Hunsicker, director of Manatee County’s Parks and Natural Resources Department. The funds were used by the county to obtain permits to remove sand from the proposed pipeline path, which the county can continue to renew, he said.

But since Port Dolphin never began construction, “the trigger was never reached” to receive the rest of the money and remove the sand, Longboat Key Town Manager Dave Bullock said.

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THE SUN

HOLIDAY HAPPENINGS

in brief

Chili Challenge Sunday The Bridge Street Merchants will host a Chili Challenge this Sunday, Dec. 13, from noon until 2 p.m. at the Sunday Market on Bridge Street in Bradenton Beach. There is no cost to enter the contest, but an advance entry form is required. The forms can be found online at www.visitbridgestreet.com.

Maritime toys at museum Join the Florida Maritime Museum for “America at Sea,” a celebration of maritime toys, on Thursday, Dec. 10, from 5:30-7 p.m.

Local collector and toy designer Vic Reiling will display toy boats, ships and other sea-related toys for the enjoyment of all ages. Light refreshments will be served. Admission is free.

To RSVP, or for more information, call 941-7086120 or visit the Florida Maritime Museum at 4415 119th St. W. in Cortez or http://floridamaritimemuseum.org.

Tax preparer needed AARP Tax Aide Foundation is looking for tax preparers in Manatee County. Join a dedicated group of volunteer tax preparers who service low to middle income taxpayers.

After a week of training at the Central Library in mid-January, volunteers will choose one of five sites where they will prepare tax returns a few hours a week from Feb. 1 through April 15. All sites have experienced coordinators to mentor the learning process, and all returns are quality reviewed.

Apply online at AARP.org/taxaide. Call Gordon Macleod at 941-748-2049 or by e-mail at dgmac@ aol.com for more information.

Fire station groundbreaking set The West Manatee Fire &Rescue Commission will hold a groundbreaking for the new Station 4, 407 67th St. W., Bradenton on Thursday, Dec. 17, at 11:30 a.m. The public is invited.

McCartney holds book discussion Holmes Beach resident Molly Sinclair McCartney, co-author of “America’s War Machine: Vested Interests, Endless Conflicts” with James McCartney, will discuss the book at the Central Library, 1301 Barcarrota Blvd., Bradenton, on Friday, Dec. 11, at 2 p.m.

Correction Island Lumber was opened 10 years after John Holmes closed his building supply business at the Holmes Beach Business Center. A story in the Nov. 25 edition of The Sun listed an incorrect date.

DECEMBER 9, 2015

Anna Maria plans holiday open house

The Sun and the AMI Historical Society are sponsoring the Anna Maria Holiday of Treasures Open House on Friday, Dec. 11 from 5:30 to 8 p.m.

Stroll through the city enjoying lite bites and musical entertainment at participating businesses and organizations along Gulf Drive and Pine Avenue. Complimentary hayrides will be offered

by CrossPointe Fellowship, 8605 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach.

The Roser Children's Choir will perform in the Historical Park, adjacent to the Historical Museum at 402 Pine Ave. at 6 p.m. Visitors can pick up a Bingo card at any participating location and have it marked.

When the card is filled, visitors are asked to vote for the bestdecorated store and put the card in the holiday decked canisters which will be distributed through the city.

A lucky winner will be drawn that night for the grand prize a museum tote filled with hundreds of dollars worth of gift certificates, jewelry, beauty products, artwork and a large bottle of champagne.

Prizes include cash, a water bottle, totes, a book, numerous gift certificates, a bottle of Champagne, a picture frame, an art print, a hand-painted sign, beauty products, a T-shirt, a luggage tag and jewelry.

AMIHS| Submitted

AMI Historical Society totes are filled with prizes for the grand prize drawing.

Winterfest this weekend

SUN FILE PHOTO

Santa will be waiting at the end of the parade.

Privateers parade to Santa The Anna Maria Island Privateers will be heading toward Santa at their annual Christmas parade on Saturday, Dec. 12, starting at 10 a.m. at Bayfront Park, in Anna Maria.

The parade is open to all individuals or groups not supporting a political cause or candidate. Participation is free and you may decorate your vehicle for the season.

The parade will go the length of the Island so bring a ride; no walkers are allowed. It will end at Coquina Beach parking lot where Santa will be waiting to visit with kids and pass out gifts. Hot dogs, chips and soda will be provided for the kids free and adults for a contribution. To get an application, go to their Website at www.amiprivateers.org. For more information, contact John “Capt’n Red Beard” Swager at 941-920-3989.

A variety of art will fill Holmes Beach City Hall field this weekend, Dec. 12 and 13, during the Anna Maria Island Art League’s 28th Annual Winterfest Festival of Fine Arts and Fine Crafts.

Festival hours are 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Admission and parking are free.

The annual juried art festival will feature more than 100 artists from the U.S. and Canada and their paintings, glass, jewelry, pottery, sculpture, fiber arts, photography, wood and more.

Also on tap is the Young at Art children’s exhibit, featuring works by Manatee County elementary and high school children, plus a children’s art activity area.

The family event features continuous live music on stage Saturday and a large food court offering a variety of food and beverages. Community organizations also will be on hand, including historical and environmental groups.

A gala raffle of more than

sun file photo

“Fierce Dragon” from the 2013 Winterfest Young at Art show.

50 art works donated by festival exhibitors benefit the League’s Scholarship Fund, which provides classes to children and adults. The raffle gives everyone a chance to collect great art for a small donation. Tickets are $1 each or six for $5, and winners need not be present see winterfest, page 5

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THE SUN

Angel art graces The Studio

winterfest: this weekend

The show is a unique partnership between two artists to enhance each other’s paintings.

FROM PAGE 4

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

ANNA MARIA – “A Collaboration of Angels and Other Works” is a unique partnership between two artists to enhance each other’s paintings to create a series of unique angels now on display at The Studio at Gulf and Pine.

On Friday, Dec. 11, the public is invited to meet the artists, Jill Krasner, of Sarasota, and Raven Skye McDonough, of Venice, at an opening reception from 4 to 8 p.m.

The pair said their collaboration happened unexpectedly when McDonough was helping Krasner organize her art studio.

“Jill showed me one of her watercolors, and I said, ‘There’s an angel in there,’ but she didn’t see it,” McDonough explained. “I took it to my studio and enhanced it with acrylics and paper collage, and it became our first piece, “The Guardian Angel of the Arts.”

“Every artist has a pile of reworkable art works that they don’t know what to do with,” added Krasner. “We traded piles and decided to make angels with them. It intrigued both of us.

“Our work is very different, but it works together, and there a distinct difference between our

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Pat Copeland | Sun

From left, Raven Skye McDonough and Jill Krasner with their first collaboration, “The Guardian Angel of the Arts.” angels. Raven’s have an other worldly mystical look, while mine are cherubs.”

In addition to the angels, both will display new work. Krasner’s is a reflection of a recent workshop in Taos, N.M., which she said “represents the Southwest’s open spaces and geometrical architectural shapes,” while McDonough creates paper mosaic collages.

Also on display is the “Six Squared” show of works including Laura Reed’s cosmic energy in acrylic paint and collage; Lolly Owens’ abstract mixed media; Susan Hurwitch’s tropical series

in mixed media; Dieter Lau’s bikers, a series of digital photos printed on aluminum mounted on wood; Cheryl Kinderknecht’s people, chairs and horses in mixed media; Janet Mishner’s girls in mixed media; and Krasner’s houses in mixed media.

These small works, mounted six across and six down can be purchased individually or as a whole.

The exhibits will be in place through Dec. 24.

The Studio at Gulf and Pine is located at 10101 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria, Hours are 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday.

to win.

Winterfest and Springfest, held in December and April, are the major fundraisers for the League, a nonprofit, tax deductible organization dedicated to fostering the arts on the Island.

In addition to classes, funds from the festivals underwrite operation of the art center, exhibits and a variety of community programs.

For more information, stop by the Art League, 5312 Holmes Boulevard, Holmes Beach, open Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., call 941-778-2099 or visit www.islandartleague.org.

Join our holiday food drive!

The Air & Energy team is hosting a food drive for The Food Bank of Manatee during the holiday season. If you would like to make a contribution, our technicians would be happy to collect your food items during your service call.

Help us make the holidays a magical time for our entire community!

For every new like the Air & Energy page receives on Facebook, we will donate $1 to the Bradenton Salvation Army AND $1 to Easter Seals of Southwest Florida. Last year we donated $1,000!

search “Air & Energy” on Facebook or visit our page at facebook.com/AirandEnergy

Simply Better.

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THE SUN

OPINION

The Anna Maria Island Sun newspaper Island Sun Plaza, 9801 Gulf Drive P.O. Box 1189 Anna Maria, FL 34216-1189 BeinPhone: (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 9, 2015

Well done, Mr. Hunsicker

C

ongratulations to former Sun Person of the Year Charlie Hunsicker, who was named the Manatee County's 2015 Tourism Ambassador of the Year for his work in renourishing Anna Maria Island's beaches.

As director of the county's Parks and Natural Resources Department, Hunsicker has worked tirelessly to develop the renourishment program, which helps keep Mother Nature at bay along our coast and replenishes the Island's number one attraction: its beaches.

The award, presented by the county's Tourist Development Council this week, followed another prestigious honor that was awarded to the county last month for its renourishment program. The 2015 Robert L. Wiegel Coastal Project Award, presented by the American Shore and Beach Preservation Association, recognizes the efforts of Hunsicker and others involved in renourishing AMI's beaches over the years.

All of this is recognition long overdue for one of the hardest-working and nicest public servants one could ever hope to meet. Well done, Mr. Hunsicker.

M

ake your plans now to enjoy the holidays Island style over the next two weeks, as a whole host of events will be occurring. These include the Anna Maria Holiday of Treasures Open House Dec. 11; the Winterfest art show and the Privateer's Christmas Parade Dec. 12; the Bridge Street Chili Challenge Dec. 13; and the amazing Anna Maria Island Chorus and Concert Orchestra's special presentation of Hector Berlioz’ “L’enfance du Christ” (The Childhood of Christ) concert Dec. 13. Then, on Dec. 19, comes the Bridge Street Christmas celebration followed by the Cortez Yacht Club's Lighted Boat Parade, cosponsored by The Sun and the Bridge Street Merchants Association.

All of these events simply serve to reenforce what we already know - this is not a bad place to call home.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR The O'Connors say thank you When you lose a loved one, you are at a loss for words, as no words can take away the heartache.

Now we are at a loss for words on how to thank the community of Billy O's friends, who in such a short period of time put together the greatest tribute ever.

All the individuals who worked tirelessly before, during and after.

The restaurants who donated food and beverages. Duffy's, who opened their home for us. The angels who anonymously picked up the rest of the tab. We cannot list each of you individually as we would surely exclude someone. You know who you are, and please know that Billy and our entire family love you very much.

You are our idols!

God Love Ya! The O'Connor Family

Brighten the night Have you noticed how dark our Anna Maria streets are at night?

When not occupied, the many rental units have no outside lights. I ask the owners and rental agents of these homes to consider having lights that turn on at night. It would brighten our community and certainly cut down on crime. Perhaps our Sheriff's

Office could join the campaign for a safer and brighter Anna Maria Katherine "Kitty" Kole Anna Maria

Support cancer research funding With the clock running out on 2015, Congress has an opportunity to show Americans that lawmakers stand with us in the fight against cancer. What better gift can Congress deliver during this holiday season than a renewed commitment to fighting a disease that continues to kill one person for every minute of every day?

Unfortunately, over the past decade, flat funding and inflation have eroded the budget for the National Institutes of Health and have jeopardized progress against cancer.

Federal funding for medical research has dropped more than 24 percent in inflation-adjusted dollars since 2003, forcing cancer centers to halt promising clinical trials and drying up the grant pool relied upon by researchers.

Budget proposals being voted on in Congress over the next few weeks include the largest single increase for cancer research in a decade. Cancer strikes one in two men and one in three women in their lifetimes. Right now, we have a rare moment to make

a substantial impact in the fight against cancer. Representative (Vern) Buchanan, will you help save more lives from cancer by voting for an increase for research funding in the 2016 budget?

Nancy Ambrose Holmes Beach and Bradenton Volunteer, American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN)

Change the parking I am a concerned citizen wondering why the parking around City Hall has been restricted to staff only. There are nine staff-only parking spots in front and five at the rear. We are fast approaching the tourist season, when parking for beachgoers, etc., is needed. Are there 14 staff working at City Hall at the same time, using all these parking spots? I don't believe so. While checking out the area the past two weeks, very few parking spots were being used by staff.

The new parking restrictions have taken place since the cell tower was installed. I believe this area should be reevaluated so vehicles can at least use some of the rear of City Hall for badly needed parking. Please consider changing the parking allowed in these areas.

Ray Shark Anna Maria

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THE SUN

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the sun survey

on the agenda

PREVIOUS QUESTION: The end of the Port Dolphin pipeline project is:

Anna Maria

Holmes Beach

84%

12/10: City Commission meeting and work session, 6 p.m.

12/17: City Commission meeting, 6 p.m.

For information, call 7086130.

12/9: Parks and Beautification Advisory Board, 2 p.m.

12/10: City Commission meeting and work session, 7 p.m.

For information, call 7085800.

Bradenton Beach

Island-wide

A good thing and a rare win for the environment.

16%

A bad thing. It would have provided jobs for the area.

10005 Gulf Drive

107 Gulf Drive N.

12/17: City Commission meeting, CANCELED. For information, call 7781005.

5801 Marina Drive

12/14: The Center of Anna Maria Island board of directors meeting, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria, 6 p.m.

12/17: West Manatee Fire & Rescue Commission meeting, CANCELED.

mark your calendar Note: Events are free unless indicated.

Wednesday Dec. 9

THIS WEEK’S SURVEY

What do you think of Bradenton Beach's decision not to enact a building moratorium?

• I don't like it. We need to regain control over big box rentals.

• I agree with the decision. A moratorium wasn't needed.

• I don't really care. I'm moving to Sarasota.

Early Settler’s Bread for sale, AMI Historical Museum, 402 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., $5.

Chair yoga, Anna Maria Island Art League, 5312 Holmes Blvd., Holmes Beach, 11:45 a.m., to 12:30 p.m. $10. Register to ArtLeagueAMI@gmail.com or 941-7782099.

AMI Community Connections fellowship, AMI Community Center, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria, 2 p.m.

Thursday Dec. 10

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

The Anna Maria Island Sun Staff 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 Jocelyn V. Greene

Contributors Steve Borggren Tom Breiter Monica Simpson Ray Hansen

Preserve paddle, Robinson Preserve, 99th Street Northwest and 17th Avenue Northwest, Bradenton, 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Reserve to 941-742-5757, ext. 7.

Zumba with Suzy, Aging in Paradise Resource Center, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, 2nd Floor, 10 a.m., $10 donation. RSVP to maryannbrady@aginginparadise.org or 941-383-6493.

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

Off Stage Ladies of the Island Players meeting, IMG Academy Golf Club, 3450 El Conquistador Pkwy, Bradenton, 11:30 a.m.

Friday Dec. 11

Forty Carrots program for babies and children to age 5, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes

Beach, 10 a.m.

Alzheimer’s caregivers’ group, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2 p.m.

Anna Maria Holiday of Treasures Open House, Pine Avenue and Gulf Drive, 5:30 to 8 p.m.

Saturday Dec. 12

Master Gardener tour, Riverview Pointe Preserve, end of 75th Street, Bradenton, 9 to 11 a.m. Reserve to 941-722-4524.

Volunteer workday, Robinson Preserve expansion site, 99th Street Northwest and 17th Avenue Northwest, Bradenton, 9 a.m. to noon.

Register online at http:// conta.cc/1R0qRXV. Privateer’s Christmas Parade, Bayfront Park in Anna Maria to Coquina Beach in Bradenton Beach, 10 a.m.

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

Holiday ornaments “Make It, Take It” family program, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2 p.m.

Music on the porch, Florida Maritime Museum, Cortez Road and 119th Street West, Cortez, 2 to 5 p.m.

Sunday Dec. 13

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

Bridge Street Market, Bradenton Beach, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. with charity food challenge, chili, noon to 2 p.m.

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THE SUN

Prestigious medal found The Air and Space Campaign medal awarded by the United States Air Force, and shown in this photo, was recently found by Drift In patron Brian Quinn. Quinn found the medal in the parking area behind the Drift In and across the street from the Pines Trailer Park.

The medal has been turned over to Bradenton Beach Police Chief Sam Speciale and is being held at the Bradenton Beach Police Department headquarters, 403 Highland Ave. To inquire about the medal, stop by the police department Mon-

Joy to the world

Aga and Jay Crum and their babyAleksander Cram appear befor the crowd at Roser Church’s Bethlehem Walk last Saturday. Roselyn Ward played a pregnant Mary as they walked around the block looking for a room at the inn. before an inn keeper directed them to the manger at the church. There were lambs, llamas and a donkey in the crowd.

TOM VAUGHT | SUN

day through Friday before 4 p.m. or call 941-778-6311.

Those attempting to claim the medal will be asked to provide some additional information regarding the medal to ensure that the claim of ownership is legitimate. Speciale also plans to contact the Air Force about the lost medal that is awarded to U.S. Air Force personnel who participated in or directly supported a significant U.S. military operation designated by the Air Force Chief of Staff.

DECEMBER 9, 2015

Holiday boat parade coming soon Get on board for the 12th Annual Cortez Yacht Club Lighted Boat Parade, which will make its twinkling way down the Intracoastal Waterway on Saturday, Dec. 19.

The parade will leave from the Seafood Shack in Cortez at 6:30 p.m. Spectators can enjoy the show from the Seafood Shack, the Cortez Bridge, the Bridge Street Pier in Bradenton Beach and Coquina Bayside Park.

Cash prizes will be awarded for the best decorated boat in each category, and the best overall boat will win a $500 grand prize. All boats are welcome to participate in the fun. The entry fee is a toy donation to Toys for Tots. To register, fill out the form in this week’s Sun. The skipper’s meeting is Thursday, Dec. 17, at 7 p.m., at the Seafood Shack.

The event is organized by the Cortez Yacht Club and sponsored by The Anna Maria Island Sun, Gulf Auto Clinic and the Bridge Street Merchants' Association.

DECEMBER 9, 2015

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DECEMBER 9, 2015

Hunsicker named Tourism Ambassador of Year

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

pat copeland | sun

Lester Family Fun Day Clockwise from above, Santa visits with Colin and Giuliana Bankert, the Manatee Players' Sarasota Sings members Sarah Johnson, Patty McGuire, Emma Diner, Samantha Crawford and Bea Kelly delighted the crowd. Joey and Chuck Lester share a laugh.

The Manatee County Tourist Development Council (TDC) has named Charlie Hunsicker, director of the county’s Parks and Natural Resources Department, as Tourism Ambassador of the Year.

TDC member Ed Chiles complimented Hunsicker for his tireless work over three decades Hunsicker to create partnerships with other agencies and maximize funding to renourish Anna Maria Island’s beaches, noting they were once badly eroded.

Saying it was long overdue, Manatee County Convention and Visitors Bureau Director Elliott Falcione presented the award at Monday’s TDC meeting, after Hunsicker announced that the American Shore and Beach Preservation Association has awarded the county the 2015 Robert L. Wiegel Coastal Project Award for the county’s beach renourishment program.

The award, first announced to the

county commission last month, recognizes a coastal project that has “stood the test of time and has shown a positive environmental, social, or recreational benefit.”

The 2013-14 beach renourishment project pumped 1 million cubic yards of sand from an offshore site onto the beach, where bulldozers made the beach wider by pushing sand out into the water, and contoured it to deter erosion.

It is the fourth award to a Florida municipality in 18 years, Hunsicker said, noting that the county’s 5 percent tourism resort tax on lodging helps fund the county’s beach renourishment program.

In other business, the TDC: • Acknowledged outgoing chair Vanessa Baugh and incoming chair Carol Whitmore; • Viewed a promotional video from VISIT FLORIDA portraying surfing, diving, seafood and a dog enjoying the beach in its #loveFL promotion, in which people are invited to share a photo of “what you love about Florida;” • Heard a VISIT FLORIDA report that every 85 tourists supports one Florida job.

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'IVE HIM THE GREAT /UTDOORS

Patagonia. Orvis. ExOfficio. Simms. Sage. Nautilus.

Anna Maria Island COASTAL

GEAR

O Outfitters u fitt t e &

APP APPAREL

505 Pine Avenue Anna Maria 941-254-4996 amioutfitters.com

27 31' 52.58" N, 82 43' 59.11" W

THE SUN

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DECEMBER 9, 2015

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Literacy Night and bake sale at school Anna Maria Elementary School will host Literacy Night on Wednesday, Dec. 9, from 5 to 7 p.m., featuring the bake sale that was normally held at the Fall Festival.

The theme for the book sale and bake sale is “Winter Wonderland.�

The public is invited, including those who aren't parents of AME students. For more information, call the school at 708-5525.

Christmas play, dinner Dec. 15 The Waterfront restaurant and craft bar will host the PTO Family Dinner in the cafeteria on Tuesday, Dec. 15, starting at 5 p.m. at Anna Maria Elementary School. The cost is $8 per adult and $5 per child. The menu includes roast beef in a rich beef au jus or turkey schnitzel with a cranberry sage cream sauce; both served with gouda gratin potatoes, seasonal vegetables, a dinner roll and beverage. Those who pre-order before 3 p.m. on Monday, Dec. 14, will be entered in a drawing for a $25 gift card to The Waterfront. The dinner is open to anybody and can be pre-ordered at the AME front desk.

At 7 p.m., the second-graders present their holiday musical, “’Twas the Night Before Christmas.� Admission to the play is free. For more details, call the school at 708-5525.

‘Tis the Season for Santa and Savings!

Gift Cards Make The Perfect Stocking Stuffer!

 � �

Gift Card Anna Ma

ria Island 941.778.0 444

‡

Sandbar Restaurant Anna Maria Island 941.778.0444

Beach House Restaurant

North Bradenton Beach 941.779.2222

Purchase online, call or visit.

Mar Vista Restaurant

North Longboat Key 941.383.2391

IslandDining.com

� �� � � ­ � € �‚ ƒ „ � … †

14

THE SUN

BUSINESS

DECEMBER 9, 2015

The Feast: casual and fine dining

BY LOUISE BOLGER SUN STAFF WRITER | lbolger@amisun.com

What does it say to you when a restaurant provides a birds-eyeview into their kitchen? What it says to me is they have a level of confidence in what goes on behind closed doors that most cooks in their own homes don’t have. The Feast restaurant in Holmes Beach opened in October of 2009, and the confidence level is a direct result of the success and consistent following the restaurant has acquired.

Owners, chefs and brothers Christofer and Joseph Dale accrued years of experience and training working in many of the Island restaurants. They classify their restaurant as casual fine dining and have recently completed

a total renovation that supports their dining concept.

The main room of the restaurant has a trendy high end look with tables and booths along the wall.

There are touches of reclaimed wood on the walls, attained from the Bradenton Beach City Pier after it was rebuilt, and a brick archway focal point. The front room has some booths as well as a window bar for extra seating or enjoying a glass of wine while waiting for your take out order.

The hallway leading to the rest rooms is covered with artworks from local artists, some of which are for sale. The restrooms also received a total makeover with a cranberry color for the ladies and blue for the gents.

THE FEAST RESTAURANT Island Shopping Center 5406 Marina Dr. Holmes Beach 941-778-5092 www.thefeastrestaurant.com

11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.

7 days a week Take out available All major credit cards accepted

LOUISE BOLGER | SUN

Brothers Joseph and Chris Dale are owners and chefs. see feast, page 16

DECEMBER 9, 2015

WWW.AMISUN.COM - CELEBRATING 15 YEARS

THE SUN

15

Stone crabs everywhere While mullet season is off to a slow start, awaiting a good cold front to get the fish moving, stone crab season is going well – too well, according to Karen Bell, of A.P. Bell Fish Co. in Cortez.

The fish house has been limiting the days it will accept stone crabs and limiting how many pounds of

claws it buys from each crabber because there is a glut of crabs this season, she said.

That means the price is lower than normal, so now may be a good time to order stone crab from the menu, or pick some up at the market.

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WWW.AMISUN.COM - CELEBRATING 15 YEARS

THE SUN

DECEMBER 9, 2015

feast: Fine or casual dining FROM PAGE 14

New license Tyler Gocher, of Miller Electric, completed all requirements necessary and was recently issued an unlimited electrical contractor license by the state. Miller Electric now has two state-licensed electrical contractors on staff.

ROSER COMMUNITY CHURCH

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A NON-DENOMINATIONAL, CHRISTIAN CHURCH

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 13 • 10:00 AM A Festival of carols presented by the Cantata Choir!

• Soloist, Sadie Elbert • Joyful Noise Choir • Narrators share the Christmas story • A 6-piece Instrumental Ensemble Followed by refreshments

Adult Class 8:45 AM • Book Study 9:00 AM Mission of the Month: Samaritan’s Purse

941-778-0414 • roserchurch.com • Find us @ facebook.com/RoserChurch

512 Pine Avenue, Anna Maria

SUBMITTED

The Feast uses local and seasonal seafood and is famous for its all you can eat snow crab summer special. There are daily specials that always include a pasta selection, a meat selection and two to three seafood selections.

Streamlining and improving their menu items is always a work in progress for the Dale borthers.

Some of their menu entrees are beef tenderloin, veal Madeira, crab cakes, chicken Marsala and salmon Florence. There are lots of appetizers, soups and salads to choose from like grouper bites, coconut shrimp, crackling calamari, Nicoise salad, lobster

bisque and New England clam chowder and a large selection of gourmet pizzas. They make their own Key Lime pie and brownies and purchase other desserts from Island bakers.

The lunch menu includes a variety of sandwiches like crab cake and chicken, salads and soups. The restaurant also offers beer and wine with 100 bottles of wine and wine by the glass. They offer ales and imported and craft beers as well.

Chris and Joseph Dale do the primary cooking, and one of them is always on the premises. They appreciate all of their regular customers and long term

staff for helping them accomplish their goal of owning and operating a successful Island restaurant. They have always lived on Anna Maria and support local community events, and these two Island boys aren’t done. They are already looking to the future for another restaurant business opportunity.

If you haven’t been to The Feast restaurant recently, you will be pleasantly surprised. The Dales have put together the perfect combination of casual and fine dining along with a window into the kitchen. As the sign above the kitchen door says, “Paradise found.”

WWW.AMISUN.COM - CELEBRATING 15 YEARS

DECEMBER 9, 2015

THE SUN

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Three roundabouts proposed The suggested roundabouts are simply in the conceptual stages and would require commission approval.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

HOLMES BEACH – During Monday’s Island Transportation Planning Organization (ITPO) meeting, City Engineer Lynn Burnett proposed the construction of three roundabouts on Gulf Drive.

“We prepared some preliminary sketches to spur the discussion to see if we have a consensus to move in this direction,” she said.

The first location Burnett

mentioned was the three-way intersection at 81st, Palm Drive and Gulf Drive, where drivers turning left from Gulf Drive onto Palm Drive and headed north have to crook their necks to see oncoming traffic to their right.

She feels a roundabout at this location would improve the flow of traffic, and she said the existing confines of the intersection provide sufficient space to install a roundabout without additional right of way acquisition.

The second possible location mentioned was an oval-shaped roundabout where Key Royale Drive, Marina Drive and Palm Drive converge. The third possible location is the intersection of Marina and Gulf drives.

If the plan is supported, Burnett

envisions a 2018 construction period that would allow plenty of time for engineering and financial planning.

Burnett said her sketches were simply an attempt to get some

lines on paper to initiate further discussion.

Her presentation followed a presentation on bicycle-related improvements given by Claudia Carlson.

After the meeting, Burnett said crash data, safety concerns and recent bike improvement discussions inspired the roundabout concept. She said any forward movement on the plans would require City Commission approval, and she has not even come up with any cost projections yet.

Sarasota/Manatee Metropolitan Planning Organization Executive Director David Hutchinson said outside funding may be available, and shovel-ready plans that don’t require state or federal permission have the best shot at receiving outside funds.

Holmes Beach Mayor Bob Johnson thanked Burnett and Carlson for their efforts and he said he sees this as a positive road forward, with more to learn.

ANNA MARIA ISLAND’S

THE UGLY GROUPER BAR & GRILL

NEW LATE NIGHT MENU!

The Ugly Grouper is now of fering a late night menu for a selection of our great food! On Fridays and Saturdays until Midnight, you can enjoy our great drinks along with a selection of our signature appetizers.

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Pretzel Bites

$6

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Ser ved with Salsa Ser ved with Honey Mustard Chicken & Cheese with Salsa

Jumbo Smoked Chicken Wings

$8

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Buf falo St yle & Ser ved with Ranch

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Fish Tacos

$12

Blackened Mahi Mahi Ser ved with Cabbage, Cheese & Salsa

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11AM-10PM 11AM-10PM 11AM-10PM 11AM-10PM 11AM-1AM 11AM-1AM 11AM-10PM

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Fresh Local Menu Options Low & Slow Smoked Food

www.Facebook.com/UglyGrouper 5704 Marina Dr. , Holmes Beach, FL

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WWW.AMISUN.COM - CELEBRATING 15 YEARS

DECEMBER 9, 2015

WWW.AMISUN.COM - CELEBRATING 15 YEARS

DECEMBER 9, 2015

is sponsoring our

11TH ANNUAL TOYS FOR TOTS DRIVE

THE SUN

We are accepting NEW unwrapped toys at the following locations: ISLAND VACATION PROPERTIES 3001 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach

U.S. MARINE CORPS RESERVE

ANNA MARIA ISLAND SUN NEWSPAPER 9801 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria

ANNA MARIA ISLAND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 5313 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach

DUFFY’S TAVERN 5808 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach

Donataions are accepted as well by check made payable to:

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DECEMBER 9, 2015

THE SUN

21

Couple arrested in another sex on the beach case The male acted like getting caught was no big deal, said the report, and he asked when they could go home.

BY TOM VAUGHT SUN STAFF WRITER

HOLMES BEACH - A couple has

been arrested after a police officer caught them having sex on an Anna Maria Island beach.

It happened on Sunday, Nov. 29, at 5:53 p.m., at the 78th Street beach access. Sgt. Mike Pilato, of the Holmes Beach Police Department, responded to a witness’s report of a couple “performing lewd and lascivious acts” on the

beach. Pilato and another officer approached the couple, and he observed the female, identified as Lucille Margo Buffaline, 20, of Bradenton, a college student, with Austin Michael Acklin, 21, also of Bradenton and a student at the same college, engaged in a sexual act.

The report said when they observed

the two officers approaching, they continued with their sex. When he ordered them to stop, Acklin responded that there was nobody around. According to Pilato, there were people near the scene. He also observed alcohol within reach of the two.

SEE COUPLE, PAGE 44

KAREN ABEL

JENNIFER WASHINGTON

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THE SUN

WWW.AMISUN.COM - CELEBRATING 15 YEARS

submitted

Steve Traves, founder of AMI Outfitters Coastal Gear & Apparel, is expanding to another store on Pine Avenue in Anna Maria on the third anniversary of his original store.

AMI Outfitters expands Steve Traves, founder and proprietor of AMI Outfitters Coastal Gear & Apparel, is celebrating his company's third anniversary by expanding to a second location one block from his shop on Pine Avenue in Anna Maria. “We've just renewed our lease at our current location at 505 Pine Avenue, but there's no room to expand. Leasing our second location at 401 Pine Avenue would double our square footage,�

Traves said.

The second shop, also called AMI Outfitters Coastal Gear & Apparel, will focus on one of the fastest-growing sports in the country, fly-fishing from paddleboards. Traves carries BOTE Boards from Fort Walton Beach, whose company slogan is Fish, Paddle, Surf. He carries

fly-fishing equipment and accessories from top brands including Orvis, Sage, Patagonia, Simms and Nautilus, a fly reel manufacturer in Miami.

Traves attributes his company's success to highly-personalized service in outfitting his customers with sun-proof clothing and top-quality gear for the outdoor lifestyle, from Island sports to adventure travel. His expertise as an outdoorsman includes 30 years fishing and paddling in local waters. Both stores will offer a mix of gear and apparel.

Traves expects his second store to have a soft opening in time for Anna Maria's Holiday Open House from 5 to 8 p.m. on Friday, Dec 11. His second shop's grand opening is scheduled for Jan. 15.

DECEMBER 9, 2015

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DECEMBER 9, 2015

THE SUN

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Concert tickets available For tickets, go to www.amicco.com, call 941-795-2370 or visit the Anna Maria Island Chamber at 5313 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach.

When the Maestro takes the stand at CrossPointe Fellowship on Sunday, Dec. 13, at 2 p.m., the audience will hear Hector Berlioz’ “L’enfance du Christ� (The Childhood of Christ), a work that took four years to complete. The music depicts not only the childhood of Christ, but also Herod’s mass murder of infants in Judea, which led to the fleeing of Mary, Joseph and Jesus.

The Anna Maria Island Chorus and Concert Orchestra has gone all out for this performance with renowned, talented soloists. • Michelle Giglio, who plays the role of Mary, has toured throughout Europe with the Orchestre National de France and Orchestre Philharmonique de France. In addition to her tours, she performed on Celine Dion’s album“S’il suffisait d’aimer,â€? Sony records as well as in William Klein’s film “ Messiah.â€?

Local performances in Florida include Rossini’s “Petitte Messe Solonelle,â€? the Southwest Florida Symphony Ft. MyGiglio ers, the Sarasota Orchestra and Gloria Musicae at the Sarasota Opera House, the Sarasota Orchestra and the St. Petersburg Opera and Florimezzo Orchestra in St. Petersburg. • Daniel Gerdes, a tenor who narrates the performance, was a young artist with The Merola Opera Program at San Francisco Opera, for the roles of Ernesto in “Don Pasquale.â€? He performed with New York City Opera for the role of Count Libenskof in “Il Viaggio a Reimsâ€? sang the tenor solos in “Carmina Buranaâ€? with the Tupelo Symphony, and the Evangelist in Bach’s “Johannes Passionâ€? with the Florida State University Symphony.

Gerdes • Bassist Jason Stearns, who plays the role of Herod, sang the title role in Macbeth at Palacio das Artes in Belo Horizante, Brazil, and Monterone in Rigoletto under Maestro Conlon at the Ravinia Festival. He frequently performs with the New York Metropolitan Opera and the Den Norske Opera in Oslo. Additional performances include the Lyric Opera of Chicago, Opera Boston, the Los Angeles Opera, Stearns the Florida Grand Opera, the Leipzig Opera, Boston’s Chorus Pro Musica, and the Mill Foreman in Jenufa at Los Angeles Opera. His European debut was as Di Luna in Il trovatore with Musiktheater im Revier in Gelsenkirchen. • Daniel A. Hoffman, a baritone who plays the roles of Polydorus and Father, created the role of “Manâ€? in the world premiere performance of the musical production The Three Queens in New York and recently sang the principal role of Danilo in “The Merry Widowâ€? at the Golden Apple Dinner Theater. His favorite roles include Germont in “La Traviata,â€? Escamillo the Toreador in “Car- Hoffman menâ€? and Colline in “La Boheme.â€? He has also been a choral conductor, musical director, stage director, choreographer, composer, voice teacher and vocal coach.

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DECEMBER 9, 2015

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DECEMBER 9, 2015

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26

THE SUN

OUTDOORS

DECEMBER 9, 2015

Winter wading M

any anglers think that wade fishing is a warm water activity, but winter wading can produce some fantastic results and, as always, gives you many advantages over anglers fishing from a boat. Getting out of the boat puts you in the fish’s realm, giving you the advantage of a silent approach.

This can be particularly important when it’s cold and the water clears up making fish especially wary. Getting in the water allows you to keep a low profile and make a more stealthy approach.

If you find fish, but they are particularly spooky or hard to see, try standing still and waiting for them! A good indication this is the case is when fish see you just before you see them. That’s a good time to try this approach. Anchor well away from the area you intend to fish, get out of the boat and stake out a pothole or sandy area where you have visibility. By staying a long cast away, you can easily see fish when they enter a hole or pass across the white sand bottom. Position yourself off to the side in the grass where you’re less visible, keep a low profile and be still. Just waiting them out gives you a big advantage when targeting reds, trout, snook and other game fish as they wander

Reel Time RUSTY CHINNIS the flat. When you make a presentation, don’t make any quick moves, and make your casts low and slow. It takes patience, but can be productive.

When wading, you won’t need heavy tackle. Unless you’re fishing docks or other structure, limit tackle to 8- to10 pound test. Make sure reels have plenty of line for long smooth casts and always check hooks for sharpness and make sure the drag is properly set. Spin and bait casting leaders should have a 30-pound bite tippet approximately 3 to 5 feet long. In clear water you might want to downsize leaders. This will often fool wary trout, but you’ll risk being cut off should you encounter a big snook.

If the visibility isn’t great or you’re fishing early or late, target the edges where grass and sand meet. These rusty chinnis | sun

see reel time, page 27

Captain Rick Grassett caught this trout while wade fishing cold winter water.

tide chart for anna maria city pier Dec 9-16 Day Date

A.M. High Time Feet

A.M. Low Time Feet

P.M. High Time Feet

P.M. Low Time Feet

Sun Rise Set

Day Date

A.M. High Time Feet

A.M. Low Time Feet

P.M. High Time Feet

P.M. Low Time Feet

Sun Rise Set

Wed 12/9

11:14a -0.23

4:18a -0.23

8:59p 2.27

3:17p 1.13

7:09-5:36

Sun 12/13

1:50p 1.13

6:49a -0.47

11:29p 2.33

5:49p 1.13

7:12-5:37

Thu 12/10

11:55a 1.44

4:55a -0.35

9:30p 2.34

3:49p 1.16

Mon 12/14

2:28p 1.47

7:30a -0.43

Fri 12/11

12:33p 1.42

5:31a -0.43

10:05p 2.38

4:23p 1.17

Tue 12/15

12:21a 2.22

8:13a -0.34

3:05p 1.53

7:57p 1.02

Sat 12/12

1:12p 1.42

6:09a -0.47

10:44p 2.38

5:02p 1.16

Wed 12/16

1:20a 2.04

8:57a -0.18

3:43p 1.61

9:02p 0.91

7:09-5.36 7:10-5.37 7:11-5.37

6:43p 1.09

7:12-5:38 7:13-5:38 7:13-5:38

DECEMBER 9, 2015

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THE SUN

27

Look for reds, snook and trout on flats Captain Rick Grassett

Anglers fishing with me on my Action Craft flats skiff the Snook Fin-Addict, out of CB's Saltwater Outfitters on Siesta Key, caught and released snook and trout on CAL jigs with shad tails, DOA Deadly Combos and top water plugs in Sarasota Bay and Little Sarasota Bay during the past week.

Sarasota winter resident Mike Perez fished Sarasota Bay with me on Thursday. We spent most of our time in skinny water where he caught and released a nice snook on a top water plug.

Don Tase, from New Hampshire, fished Little Sarasota Bay with me on Friday. He caught and released a few trout to 18 inches, ladyfish and Jack crevalle on CAL jigs with shad tails and DOA Deadly Combos.

Catch and release snook fishing around lighted docks and bridges with flies and DOA Lures should be a good option now. Look for reds, snook and big trout mixed with mullet schools on shallow flats and edges of bars in back country areas of Charlotte Harbor and lower Tampa Bay. False albacore, tripletail,

CAPTAIN RICK GRASSETT | submitted

Sarasota winter resident Mike Perez with a snook caught and released on a top water plug while fishing Sarasota Bay with Capt. Rick Grassett.

Spanish mackerel and more should still be a good option in the coastal Gulf when conditions are good.

CAPTAIN larry mcguire | submitted

King me!

Jon Patton, from New Albany, Ohio, caught this smoker kingfish using a sardine in about 50 feet offshore of Anna Maria. Jon and party had a great king run plus gag grouper and mangrove snapper. Jon was fishing with Capt. Larry McGuire.

reel time: Winter wading FROM PAGE 26

sandy areas (the seams) and potholes are perfect ambush spots for the predators you’re targeting.

Start with presentations about 2 feet outside the sandy area. Make sure you target the deep grassy ends of the potholes. These areas can be very productive and always warrant a couple of extra casts.

After working the edges of the holes and the seams, begin casting into the sandy areas. Work the nearside of the hole and cast progressively longer until you reach

the other side. When fly fishing, try a clear sink tip line with a relatively (8- to 10-foot) short leader.

The clear tip allows you to fish the far side of a hole with less chance of spooking fish. Thirty pound bite tippets that are 12 to 15 inches long will suffice.

Over the last two winters, anglers have been having some excellent success with big trout on cold, low tide mornings. The fish will come into some extremely shallow water to feed, so start shallow and work your way towards the deeper edges,

always staying vigilant for surface action, wakes or feeding birds.

The key to productive and comfortable winter wading is staying warm and dry. A good pair of waders, wading boots, sweat pants and insulating socks will do the trick.

Add a pair of polarized glasses, a hat with a dark under-brim, a wade vest or pack, and you’re in business. Give winter wade fishing a try. It gets you out of the boat, provides some exercise, and some excellent angling opportunities.

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DECEMBER 9, 2015

DECEMBER 9, 2015

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TOWN CRIER Sandbar to host kids party The Sandbar restaurant, 100 Spring Ave, Anna Maria, is again hosting the Lawton Chiles Christmas for Kids party on Wednesday, Dec. 9, from 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the pavilion.

Kids from the Head Start program, Hope Foundation and RCMA, a non-profit child care center in Palmetto will arrive with teachers and parents.

There will be people in costumes, games and face painting, and lunch will be served before Santa arrives to handout the gifts. Each child will get a pair of shoes, an outfit of clothing, an appropriate toy and a food basket for their families.

Garden Club celebrates The Anna Maria Garden Club features a festive Christmas program under the direction of Ginger Wyss, program chairperson, on Wednesday, Dec. 16, at Roser Church, 512 Pine Avenue at noon.

A Christmas luncheon will follow hosted by the board members. For information, call 778-2607

Financial advice at library There will be a free presentation by Carol Jochem, insurance program manager of BMO Harris Financial Advisors, on maximizing retirement income and long-term care at the Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive on Wednesday, Dec. 9, from 2 to 3:30 p.m.

This program is sponsored by the Women’s Resource Center. Attebdees must RSVP by calling 941747-6797 or e-mailing Chris Braun at cbraun@wrcmanatee.org., and they must arrive 15 minutes early to fill out the registration form.

Holiday fun for ladies Off Stage Ladies of the Island Players will enjoy a holiday treat on Thursday, Dec. 10, at 11:30 at IMG Academy Golf Club, 3450 El Conquistador Pkwy, Bradenton, for lunch. The program will be “Holiday Sparkettes” featuring the Bonnie Gray Tap Dancers and Barb’s Hula. Visitors are always welcome.

Call Nancy Ambrose 941-518-4431 for information.

Explore Robinson at low tide The public is welcome to bring a kayak or canoe, life jacket and safety equipment to Robinson Preserve on Thursday, Dec. 10, from

9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. to explore the sandbars of the Manatee River during low tide. Cameras are a good idea. Kids 16 and under must be accompanied by an adult. Reservations are required. Call 941-7425757, ext. 7.

Seniors visit historic village Senior Adventures, the group that provides educational opportunities to explore the area, will be travelling to Heritage Village in Largo on Friday, Dec. 11, to explore a 21-acre historic collection of a church, schoolhouse, log cabin, Victorian style house, rail car and old fire trucks, all decorated true to their period, from 1852 to 1950.

Members will meet at 10 a.m. at the Annie Silver Community Center, 103 23rd St. N., Bradenton Beach. Call Kaye Bell, 538-0945, or e-mail cortezbell@tampabay.rr.com for more information.

Oysters need your help The Sarasota Bay Estuary Program, the Tampa Bay Estuary Program and Manatee County Parks and Natural Resources Department will be bagging oyster shells to restore habitats at Robinson Preserve on Saturday, Dec. 12, from 9 a.m. to noon, and they need volunteers to help. They will place the fossilized shells in the estuarine waters of the preserve early next year to provide surfaces for oysters to live on and to carry out their important jobs of filtering water, providing habitat for other organisms and preventing shoreline erosion. For more information, contact info@ sarasotabay.org .

Paper folding at library Judy Pruitt presents her origami class at the Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, on Saturday, Dec. 12, from 10 a.m. to noon. Learn this ancient Japanese art of paper folding. The class is free. For more information, call the library at 778-6341.

Cortez folk music played here The Florida Maritime Museum, 4415 119th St. W., Cortez, hosts Music on the Porch on Saturday, Dec. 12, 2 to 5 p.m. In celebration of the rich musical heritage of Cortez, the museum hosts the event on the second Saturday of each month. Come enjoy the music, or bring an instrument and make some of your own. Musician participation may vary.

Make an ornament Kids will have a chance to make a keepsake Christmas ornament on Saturday, Dec. 12, from 2 to 4 p.m. at the Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Call 778-6341 for information.

Market collects for needy Shop the Beach Market at Coquina Beach, 2650 Gulf Drive S., in Bradenton Beach at the trolley stop, concession stand area every Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. for local artwork, arts and crafts, jewelry, fresh produce and seafood, whole bean coffee, plants and more.

During December, the market is collecting non-perishable food for the Roser Food Bank and the Food Bank of Manatee County. It needs canned fruit and vegetables, soups, cereal, tuna, canned chicken and meats, peanut butter, toiletries and laundry soap plus blankets, towels, food and other pet items for Royal Rescue and clothing, shoes, toys etc for Galvano One Stop and the Salvation Army. The Anna Maria Island String Band will be performing throughout the Beach Market from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Catch health problems in time You could be alerted to possible stroke or other health problems by taking Prevention Plus Stroke and Vascular Screening offered Tuesday, Dec. 18, at the Center, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria.

The screenings are being offered at reduced prices. They include stroke/carotid ultrasound for $40, abdominal aortic aneurysm for $40, arterial disease test for $40, thyroid ultrasound for $40, abdominal ultrasound for $95 and heart scan-echocardiogram for $95 or all six tests for only $179. Blood tests, liver, cholesterol, PSA and TSH tests are also available.

To register, call 888-667-7587.

Zdravecky to address Dems Local Planned Parenthood CEO Barbara Zdravecky speaks before the Anna Maria Island Democratic Club at their monthly meeting on Monday, Dec. 14, at the Seafood Shack 4110 127th St. West, Cortez.

Buffet service will run from, 11:30 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. The club asks all attendees to bring canned goods for local food pantries plus clothing and toys for the Safe Children Coalition. For more information, contact Bill McGrath at 941-7614017.

DECEMBER 9, 2015

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DECEMBER 9, 2015

THE SUN

31

‘Fox On the Fairway’ par excellence “The Fox On the Fairway” plays through Dec. 13 at the Island Players Theatre.

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

ANNA MARIA – Ken Ludwig has proven himself to be a great writer of comedies, and the Island Players look forward to performing his work.

The three plays performed at the Island Players – “Crazy for You,” “Lend Me a Tenor” and “Moon Over Buffalo” – were all set in the early 1900s, but he set “The Fox On the Fairway” in more modern times.

Fittingly, this witty story about golf is co-produced by Anna Maria Island’s own Key Royale Golf Club.

The story is about rival country clubs that are getting ready to compete in their annual tournament, and the prospect of trying to break a losing streak by one club manager with a ringer golfer who is much better than the rest, compels him to make an extremely large bet on the side with the manager of the

tom vaught | sun

From left to right: Bingham, played by Walter Price, shows his displeasure with Justin, played by Lucas Piety, and Pamela, played by Carolyn Zaput, in "The Fox On the Fairway," at the Island Players Theatre. competing club.

The play has six characters, and each of the actors in last Thursday’s premier performance was excellent. Two of them are very young. Haley Hines, who plays Louise, is a junior at Manatee High School and Lucas Piety, who plays Lucas, graduated from Cardinal Mooney High School

and will begin attending the University of Central Florida as a theater major. They have both performed in previous plays for the Island Players.

They are the romantic interests, and Piety has a mixture of youth and maturity and Hines is as sweet a young lass as there ever was.

The rest of the cast was

also remarkable.

Carolyn Zaput has played in most of the local theaters, and she is excellent as Pamela, a woman who can be as sweet as honey or as forbidding as a tropical storm. Judy Glynn, as Muriel, is a local favorite with her red hair and her ability to deliver a punch-line.

Walter Price plays Bing-

ham, the manager of the golf club that hasn’t won a tournament with its competitor for five years. His array of reactions to what happens is priceless.

Richard Levene, a 50-year veteran of the stage, was perfect as Dickie, the manager of the competing golf club. Dickie has a dubious background as a womanizer and he would love to pull a quick one on his competitor.

With veteran director James Thaggard stirring the pot, each actor delivered sterling performances.

There were times when three or four of the cast delivered soliloquies, and they all ended speaking in unison and the timing was perfect.

It takes a lot of talent and practice to be this good, especially on the first night.

If you love to laugh, buy a ticket and have a ball. Be sure to hurry because there might not be any seats left as “The Fox On the Fairway” heads for the 18th hole.

For ticket information, call the box office at 778-5755.

32

THE SUN

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6906 14th St. W. on US 41

6696 Cortez Rd.

1525 51st Ave. E.

All locations open from 11am ~ 9pm.

DECEMBER 9, 2015

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THE SUN

33

Happy holidays Holmes Beach merchants near the Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce celebrated their holiday open house Friday night with food, refreshments, musical entertainment and bargains, along with the annual lighting of the Chamber Christmas tree.

TOM VAUGHT | SUN

34

THE SUN

REAL ESTATE

DECEMBER 9, 2015

What’s happening with million dollar properties?

I

remember being fascinated as a child with the 1950’s television show “The Millionaire,” where people were given $1 million by a benefactor who was never revealed. The show told the story of how wealth changed their lives for both the good and the bad. It’s a good thing this show, which was on for five years, isn’t on today because $1 million isn’t what it once was.

My last analysis of $1 million and over properties in the three cities of Anna Maria Island and Cortez was done in July covering the first six months of the year. Since everyone is getting in gear for the busy real estate selling season ahead, I thought it’s time for another look. July, August, September and October have always had the lowest number of closings during the year, but considering that we’re comparing six months to four months the sales numbers are looking pretty good.

Castles in the Sand Louise Bolger For the first six months of the year Cortez had one $1 million dollar sale, and for the four months from July through October it didn’t have any – not really surprising.

Bradenton Beach and Holmes Beach during the first six months of the year had eight $1 million or over sales and one sale just under $1 million. During July through October, there were nine $1 million or over sales and four in the $900,000s. The highest closing price was $2,000,000.

The city of Anna Maria during the first half of the year closed nine $1

million or over properties and three just under $1 million. For July through October, the city closed only three $1 million or over properties and one for $900,000, with the highest sale being $1,750,000.

That was then, but this is now, and all property owners and real estate professionals are getting ready for season, which is setting up to turn the Island into millionaire’s row. Cortez has six properties listed at $1 million or more with the top listing price being $1,690,000. In July, there were four.

Bradenton Beach and Holmes Beach have 72 $1 million or over properties listed with a high of $4,495,000, in addition to 10 listed in the $900,000s.

In July, there were 62 over $1 million listings and five just under $1 million.

And tiny Anna Maria City has 50 properties listed at $1 million or more with the top listing price being $4,950,000 in

addition to six properties listed in the $900,000s. In July, there were 42 properties listed over $1 million and two just under $1 million.

The bottom line is that all three cities on Anna Maria and in Cortez have more $1 million properties listed than the last time we looked at it – totaling 128 properties listed at $1 million or more. I like to include the properties in the $900,000s for both sales and listings, since many of them are only a hair away from $1 million. The closed property numbers are from the Manatee County Appraiser’s Website, and the listed properties are from Realtor. com and are based on single-family properties at the time of this writing.

In 1955, when the average price for a new home was about $15,000, $1 million was a lot of money. Today most tiki huts on the Island cost more. “The Millionaire,” what a quaint idea.

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DECEMBER 9, 2015

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35

Lawn party delights attendees Proceeds from the yearly event benefit the Kiwanis Club of Longboat Key and its efforts to assist local youth organizations and provide youth scholarships.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

LONGBOAT KEY – Attended by approximately 1,200 people. Saturday’s Fifth Annual Longboat Key Gourmet Lawn Party was a sold out event graced by beautiful weather and extraordinary food.

Ticket holders spent two hours on the grounds of the Resort at Longboat Key Club sampling cuisine, wine and beer provided by 36 participating restaurants and vendors from the greater Bradenton/Sarasota area.

“We’ve only been here 30 minutes and I’m already getting full,” said Canadian and Longboat Key resident John Thurston, who with his wife Barbara was enjoying the chicken Marsala being served at the Amore by Andrea booth.

“We’ve lived here five years and have never been; it’s pretty remarkable,” he added.

At the Bridge Tender Inn booth,

Joe Hendricks | sun

Bridge Tender Inn's Shannon Dunnan presents the black bean nachos she and her son Jacob were serving to Gourmet Lawn Party guests.

Shannon Dunnan and her 14-year-old son Jacob handed out tasty and visually appealing black bean nachos. Their Bridge Street neighbors from Island Time served Scallop Tacos and the Bridge Street Bistro dished out shrimp gumbo. At the Mar Vista booth, Amber Zampella and Sarah Holmes handed

out wild boar sliders topped with old bay slaw and homemade pickles.

Tyler’s Gourmet Ice Cream owner Dan Alderson said, “We’re getting recognition from an area we’re not in yet, but we’ll have a presence here soon.”

Bradenton Beach residents Steve Schewe and Nancy Kim made the

rounds, joined by Sarasota resident Amy Hendricks.

Schewe’s favorites included the mussels marinière from Antoine’s.

“The mussels were great, with leeks and celery,” he said.

Schewe also donated a fitness training package to the silent raffle.

Kim and Hendricks said their favorite was Lazy Lobster’s seared sea scallops.

“They were the perfect size and seared perfectly,” Hendricks said. “I had two and almost had a third.”

Sitting at the same table, Lakewood Ranch resident Janet Glazer said her favorite was the Blue Dolphin Café’s Belgian waffles.

Accompanied by their children Carter and Madison, Jenny and Micha Keel from Sarasota thoroughly enjoyed the Lido Beach Grille’s caramelized diver scallops.

“The food is awesome, the event benefits a good cause and we’re happy to be a part of it,” said Micha, who also took turns manning the Ameriprise Financial booth.

Accompanied by her husband Alan and awaiting the announcement of the see PARTY, page 37

36

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THE SUN

AMY WATERBURY | SUBMITTED

Last nest of the year Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring volunteers Marie Masferrer and Bob Hayes excavated the last sea turtle nest of the season on Saturday and found 49 unhatched eggs. They were frozen and sent to the Florida Marine Research Institute in St. Petersburg to determine the species – loggerhead or green. 178 sea turtle nests hatched this year on the Island, 44 fewer nests than last year, but 17 more nests than the 15-year average. An equal number, 178, failed to hatch, mostly due to flooding.

Nesting News Sea turtles Nests laid: 356 False crawls: 441 Nests hatched: 178 Hatchlings to Gulf: 12,571 Overwashed (nests that had water over them): 88 Standing water (nests that were inun-

dated with standing water): 50 Partial washout (some eggs, but not all, missing from nests): 14 Complete washout (nest and all eggs washed away or all stakes identifying nest location washed away): 53 Nest disorientations: 22 Not hatched: 178 Nests remaining: 0 Source: Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring

Source: Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission

Cindy lane | sun

Red tide continues Red tide continues to plague local beaches.

DECEMBER 9, 2015

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DECEMBER 9, 2015

AMOB requests approved City Commissioners received legal assurances that the subleases for the business spaces are lease compliant.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONENT

BRADENTON BEACH – Last week’s City Commission meeting produced unanimous commission approval for a series of requests pertaining to the AMOB restaurant scheduled to open Monday, Dec. 21.

Commissioners also received written copies of business plans submitted by primary pier tenant John Horne’s sublease tenants and a legal opinion from the attorney Fred Moore regarding the lawsuit Al and Mike Bazzy recently filed in opposition to the sublease agreements Horne reached with Sherman Baldwin, Laura Shely and AnnMarie Nicholas.

Requests approved

Commissioners approved a request pertaining the new AMOB awning recently installed atop the city-owned restaurant spaces wa-

terfront patio.

The approval came a few weeks after the awning was delivered by truck in four sections and lifted over the restaurant and put into place on the patio.

The commission approved a request for additional rooftop signage on the north and south sides of the building and also approved AMOB’s request to acquire a SRX liquor license.

During the Pier Team meeting that took place the day before, the Pier Team led by Police Chief Sam Speciale gave Horne its blessings to install a new flagpole in the east end of the parking lot.

Sublease opinion

Deputy City Clerk Marie Montoya read into the public record the letter Moore provided Mayor Bill Shearon earlier that day regarding the subleases granted for a tour boat operation activity center, a shared space featuring a jewelry store and a pop-art/home accents store.

Moore’s letter said, “We’re Back Inc. (Horne’s LLC) is permitted to sublet out property 2 and property

3 without the consent of the city, though any sublease is required to contain specific language and the sub-tenants use will have to be one of the permitted uses. So long as tenants’ and subtenants’ proposed use is specifically permitted under the lease, then no consent is required; however, if the proposed use does not fall within one of the specifically designated uses, said use must first obtain written consent.

“It appears to me, based on the attached business plan, that the proposed uses by the propose subtenants fall within the permitted use of ‘recreational/tourist-friendly small business uses of low impact.’

Ultimately this decision is up to the commission,” his letter stated.

Having heard this opinion, the commission unanimously reviewed the submitted business plans that had been previously reviewed and recommended for approval by the Pier Team. All three subtenants plan to open this month despite the recent actions taken by the Bazzys.

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37

PARTY: Delights attendees FROM PAGE 35

raffle winners, Anna Maria resident Amy Tripp said, “It’s our first time and we would definitely come again.”

Before the Big Cash Raffle took place, event Chair Michael Garey presented former Moore’s Stone Crab owners Alan, Paul and Robert Moore with a plaque of gratitude that commemorated this year’s event being the first since 1987 in which the Moores were not participants.

“It’s the first time I get to walk around and enjoy this,” Alan said, noting that he planned to start looking for a new job in January.

As the event came to a close, ABC 7’s “Good Morning Suncoast” co-anchor and event emcee Rebecca Vargas pulled the winning raffle ticket that resulted in Realtor Janet Chamberlain winning the $20,000 cash prize.

Garey told the crowd Chamberlain helped set up the event earlier, but had left to prepare for the holiday parade taking place in Sarasota that night.

Last year’s lawn party raised more than $68,000 for the Kiwanis Club of Longboat Key. Final numbers were still be tallied Monday morning, but were expected to top last year’s recordsetting success.

38

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THE SUN

DECEMBER 9, 2015

Long Bar marina hearing held The debate over the previously proposed Long Bar Pointe marina continues.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

BRADENTON – Long Bar Pointe developer Carlos Beruff still wants a marina and the fate of that desire currently lies in the hands of 12th Circuit Court Judge John Lakin.

At the conclusion of the hearing that took place Friday, Dec. 4, Lakin ordered the plaintiffs, defendants and intervenors to each submit their proposed orders in writing within 21 days. The 15-page written orders will recap the arguments made in court and the voluminous filings made prior to the hearing.

Lakin said he would provide his ruling within 30 days of the hearing.

The attorneys representing Beruff and his business partner Larry Lieberman and the attorneys representing Manatee County, Suncoast Waterkeeper and the Florida Institute for Saltwater Heritage (FISH) spent more than six hours debating whether the developers have the right to cut through environmentally sensitive mangroves to build a marina.

The case dates back to 2013, when County Commissioners voted 4-3 to approve a future land use map amendment request that allowed for mixed-use in addition to the residential rights the property already held when Beruff bought the land in 2012.

The divided commission approval came only after Beruff voluntarily withdrew his marina request.

The mixed-use designation granted still allowed for a hotel, conference

center, commercial spaces, 1,086 single family residential units and 2,351 multi-family residential units.

On Dec. 23, 2013, Beruff withdrew his mixed-use request entirely.

In February 2014, a site plan for a much smaller 200-unit residential development was approved, but construction never began.

On Oct. 7, 2014, attorney Bill Moore filed a lawsuit on behalf Beruff and Lieberman’s Long Bar Point LLLP seeking declaratory relief that would allow a marina. Friday’s hearing was the by-product of that complaint and the competing requests for summary judgements recently filed by Long Bar Pointe LLP and the county.

Legal arguments

When the hearing began, Lakin they would stay at it until they were done.

Moore spent the next two hours pleading his client’s case, which was built around the contention that ownership of the land and an accompanying submerged land rights gave the developers the constitutional and riparian rights to build a marina.

Riparian rights pertain to a landowner’s ability to use a waterway or body of water adjacent to their property. The body of water in this case is Sarasota Bay and the area of the bay known as “The Kitchen.”

The original complaint for declaratory judgement seeks judicial determination as whether certain provisions of the county’s comprehensive plan violate the developers’ property and submerged land rights and whether the county can take those rights away without making full compensation.

“Essentially this case is about how far and which way the government

MEDIA POOL PHOTO by Tiffany Tompkins-Condie.

Judge John Lakin is now considering the arguments made during last week’s hearing. can limit a private property owner’s rights,” Moore said.

One more than one occasion, Lakin noted that cases like this put the government’s right to protect natural resources and the public welfare on a collision course with a property owner’s rights.

County’s case

After a lunch break and more arguments from Moore, Assistant County Attorneys Chris DeCarlo and Bill Clague laid out the county’s defense.

DeCarlo said Moore’s arguments challenged the comp plan limitations on their face, rather than making an applied challenge for a development request applied for and denied.

In regard to the statute of limitations and the timeliness of the developers’ comp plan complaints, DeCarlo said the comp plan was adopted in 1989 and the four-year window to challenge it had long since expired.

Clague said the comp plan and the additional coastal protections required later in the Community Planning Act were both state-mandated, and the latter was required in order

to avoid the irreversible and irretrievable loss of coastal resources.

Clague defended the comp plan objectives, provisions and prohibitions pertaining to boat ramps, submerged lands, the construction of artificial waterways and other related matters.

He also cited the economic value of a bay that creates approximately 21,000 jobs and has served as a lifeline for the Cortez fishing village for more than a century.

He pointed out that county commissioners granted the developers significant land use rights in 2013, but the developers only presented conceptual renderings for a marina and never any specific plans; and it was pointed out later that the developers voluntarily withdrew their marina request during the 2013 commission meeting that led to them getting their other mixed-use allowances.

“I feel they are going on a little bit of a fishing expedition through our rules and regulations,” Clague said.

Intervenors

On behalf of FISH, attorney Ralf Brookes recounted the developer’s previous actions, and he spoke in detail about case law and the comp plan.

On behalf of Suncoast Waterkeeper, attorney Justin Bloom explained how important that area of the bay is to all who rely on it, including the Village of Cortez, and he also addressed additional issues of ecological significance.

See accompanying Long Bar marina story on page 41

DECEMBER 9, 2015

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Carla Beddow - Listing Marianne Norman-Ellis - Selling

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Sato Real Estate

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Terry Hayes - Listing and selling Jason Sato - Listing John Damato – Selling

Wagner Real Estate

Lori Guerin and Carmen Pedota Listing and selling

THE SUN

39

40 THE SUN

SPORTS

DECEMBER 9, 2015

Final four: Adult soccer playoffs continue at the Center

BY MONICA SIMPSON SPECIAL TO THE SUN

The fans and players were “smilingdeep” Thursday night despite the drizzly cool air and damp field watching the first four playoff games of the fall adult soccer season at the Center. The playoff games lead to the awarding of the Paul “Ace” Hayward Island Cup. Hayward the creator of the smiledeep sentiment would have loved the competitive action on the pitch.

The first game of the night pitted #7 seed Beach to Bay Construction against #3 see Progressive Cabinetry. In the ninth minute of the game, Progressive scored the first goal of the night. Three minutes later, Beach to Bay tied up the game. Beach to Bay was able to contain offensive threat Anthony Barberio, ending the first half only one point difference with the score 3-2 for Beach to Bay. The second half the game soon saw the ball game tied up 3-3 with a Progressive offensive push. In the seventh minute of the game, Scott Dean scored a goal for Progressive, and soon thereafter Progressive found the net again widening the score to 3-5.

With nearly 19 minutes on the clock, Beach to Bay struck hard with a goal. Two minutes later, Progressive scored, and Kevin Roman for Beach to Bay closed the scoring gap once again taking the score to 5-6. There just was

MONICA SIMPSON | SUN

Island Pest Control's Josh Sato dribbles the soccer ball awaiting tough defense to win the game against Mason Martin Thursday night. not enough time despite a strong effort for Beach to Bay to take the game to a shoot out. Barberio finished the game with four goals. Roman had three goals in the game.

Shawn Kaleta and Rico Berissert both scored for Beach to Bay. Goalie Jordan Demers had four saves in the game for Beach to Bay while Nate Talucci saved 10 goals for Progressive Cabinetry.

Mason Martin, the #6 seed, played the #2 seed Island Pest Control in the 7 p.m. game.

Island Pest Control scored within the first two minutes of the game. Danny Anderson, for Mason Martin, scored his only goal of the game when the ball ricocheted off of the side post tying the playoff game 1-1.

Scoring for Island Pest Control rapidly spread the score with goals in the 12th, 14th and 20th minutes as well as right before the half with

SPORTS BRIEFS Horseshoes happenings

Three teams met in a playoff on Dec. 2 after each went 3 and 0 during pool play. Bob Lee and Herb Puryear drew the bye, while John Crawford and Bill Wright took out Ed Bergles and Rod Bussey 21 to 18. In the final, it was Lee and Puryear earning a trip to the

an own goal by goalie Frank Agnelli for Mason Martin.

With the score 5-1, Mason Martin buckled down and only allowed Island Pest Control to score one additional goal in the second half of play.

Mason Martin put another goal on the scoreboard with an own goal by Island Pest Control, ending the game with the score at 6-2.

Nick and Ben Sato had eight and 10 saves respectively for Island Pest Control. Agnelli had 12 saves for his team.

The Sato brothers, James Lynch, Jhon Zamora and Lexi Braxton were each credited for a goal for Island Pest.

The regular season champions, Sato Real Estate, clinched its spot in the semifinals in the game against the last seeded team, Island Time. The first goal of the game went in for Island Time, giving it hope to pull off the miracle that has only occurred

winners circle with a 22 to 10 win over Crawford and Wright. On Dec. 5, five teams moved into the knockout round after each went 2 and 1 during pool play. In round one, it was Dom Livedoti and Jay Disbrow beating Herb Puryear and Hank Huyghe 22 to 8, while Bob Lee and John Crawford moved on after a 21 to 2 trashing of Jerry Disbrow and Gene Bobeldyk. Round two saw Livedoti and Jay Disbrow move into the final with a 22 to 14 win over Sam Samuels and Jim Kliener. Lee

one time in Center history with the last seed team beating the champions. The goal

by Mike Powers would prove to be the only one for Island Time in the quarterfinal game.

Sato Real Estate Team Captain Kris Yavalar tied up the game after 10 minutes of additional play. Near the end of the first half of the game Yavalar’s team pulled ahead with another goal.

Sato Real Estate dominated the second half with four additional goals, ending the game with the score of 6-1. Island Time’s goalie Ryan Moss had 15 saves in the game. The additional goals for Sato Real Estate were scored by Matt Kretzman, BJ Grant and Cory Wash. The team’s Chelsea Hoffner scored two goals, and Jason Sato, goalkeeper, had 10 saves for the game.

The final night of the game had everyone on the edge of their seats. Ross Built Con-

and Crawford earned the day's bragging rights after beating Livedoti and Disbrow 24 to 14.

Gals play Christmas Scramble Forty eight women played a Christmas Scramble on Tuesday, Dec. 1. The winning team was Joy Kaiser, Sue Little, Barbara Estok and Karen Mitchell. They shot a 33 and their averaged handicap gave them a net score of 27. A special

struction, the #4 seed, fought hard against Slim’s Place, the #5 seed. The well-matched opponents fought for the fourth seat in the semi-finals to the final second of the game. Ross Built struck with two goals in the first half by Eric Pullen. PJ Smargisso scored for Slim’s Place on a penalty kick.

Six minutes into the second half, Chris Cicharo was given a red card for words after being called for a slide tackle on the wet field. With the removal of Cicharo, Ross Built played the remainder of the game down one player. Smargisso scored his second goal on the penalty kick. Despite the field advantage by Slim’s Place, Mike Vitori scored two goals for Ross Built.

Slim’s Place’s Matt Plummer scored two goals in the second half, and Smargisso added an additional goal. The goalies for both teams were challenged by their opponents.

Stephen Perry saved 10 goals for Slim’s Place, and goalkeeper Richard Fosmore had 18 saves for Ross Built Construction. In the last minutes of the game, Ross Built tried to make offensive attacks to tie the game, but was unsuccessful.

After 50 minutes of tough play, Slim’s Place was victorious.

The Island Cup semi-finals will be held on Thursday, Dec. 10. Progressive Cabinetry will match up against Island Pest Control at 7 p.m. The 8 p.m. game will see Slim’s Place battle against Sato Real Estate.

event, Plant the Poinsettia, awarded the team whose second shot landed the farthest from the tee on the fifth hole. At the close of the round, 12 poinsettias graced the fairway, and the winning team was Mary Lou Dreier, Marilyn Niewijk, Terry Westby and Tootie Wagner. Mary Lou Dreier chipped in on the seventh hole and Heather Pritchard and Marilyn Niewijk each chipped in on the eighth hole.

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DECEMBER 9, 2015

THE SUN

41

Attorneys assess Long Bar hearing The judge’s ruling is expected by early January.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

BRADENTON – After Friday’s six-hour-plus Long Bar Pointe court hearing, attorneys Ralf Brookes and Mitchell Palmer shared their thoughts on the case now being considered by Circuit Court Judge John Lakin Developer Carlos Beruff is contending that he has the right to build a marina that has direct access to Sarasota Bay, despite the county comp plan contending otherwise.

Working in unison with Manatee County’s legal team and Suncoast Waterkeeper Attorney Justin Bloom, Brookes represented the Florida Institute for Saltwater Heritage as an intervenor in the case.

“I think the judge considered all the arguments and I’m pretty confident the county will win their motion for summary judgment,” he said.

Speaking by phone Friday evening, County Attorney Mitchell Palmer shared his thoughts on the arguments presented by the assistant county attorneys who work under his supervision.

“We have taken the position from the very beginning that their lawsuit is untimely since it constitutes a facial challenge to a statute, in this case a comprehensive plan provision. Since this is a facial attack, they blew the statute of limitations many years ago,” Palmer said.

“A facial challenge means the statute or the ordinance or the regulation is unlawful and uncon-

You have to look at the entire scope of their ownership to determine whether the overall development of the property MEDIA POOL PHOTO by Tiffany Tompkins-Condie.

Chris DeCarlo and Anne Morris were among those who represented Manatee County at last week’s Long Bar Pointe hearing stitutional on its face; that it is so burdensome on its face that you don’t need to wait for it to be applied,” he explained.

Palmer said the developers could, at a later time, bring forth an applied challenge pertaining to development permits applied for and denied, but formal plans for a marina were never submitted.

“You have to make your application, see how the government reacts to it and if you don’t like what the government does you bring your as applied challenge within four years of the denial,” he explained.

“We also made another argument that piqued the judge’s interest. We said if recent ownership is the only thing that’s necessary to bring a challenge such as this, they could game the system and every three and a half years flip the property to a related entity and buy successive

four-year limitation periods into infinity.”

Palmer pointed out that Beruff ’s attorneys did not have much of a retort when reminded that the developers voluntarily withdrew their request for a marina in 2013.

The plaintiffs contend this case is about riparian water rights, so any previous upland approvals are irrelevant.

“Our point is you cannot look at the submerged lands in a vacuum, and that riparian rights are entirely dependent on upland ownership.

You have to look at the entire scope of their ownership to determine whether the overall development of the property has been substantially diminished.”

“It’s a rare judge that will telegraph what they they’re thinking is, so it’s difficult to say how the judge is going to come down,” Palmer

has been substantially diminished.”

Mitchell Palmer County Attorney said of the potential outcome.

“It’s conceivable the judge could rule in our favor on the statute of limitations question only, and simply make a finding that they were untimely with their lawsuit and not even get to any of the substantive arguments. If he doesn’t buy our statute of limitations argument, he’s obviously going to have to analyze the other substantive issues we dealt with today.”

Palmer expects the loser of this case to seek a higher court’s opinion from the Second District Court of Appeals in Lakeland.

“We’re going to continue to aggressively defend our comprehensive plan provisions even it means we have to do so in the appellate courts,” he declared.

42

THE SUN

BEACH BEAT Anna Maria

11/22, burglary, to an unoccupied structure, 200 block of Willow Avenue.

Between Oct. 18 and Nov. 22, a burglar entered the home and stole some items.

11/24, Baker Act, Manatee County Sheriff’s Office substation, 10005 Gulf Drive. The deputy reports a man came to him saying he was having difficulty dealing with life. The deputy arranged for him to be taken to Suncoast Behavior Health Treatment Center for evaluation.

11/27, lost property, Sandbar restaurant, 100 Spring Ave. A man on his way home to North Carolina called the substation to report his wallet was missing, and he feels he might have lost it at the Sandbar. He said he wanted it documented in case somebody finds it.

Bradenton Beach

12/3, burglary to a vehicle, Cortez Beach, 1500 Gulf Drive S. A couple went to the beach for an hour and when they returned, they found the window to their rental car smashed in and her purse was missing. The purse contained a wallet, some jewelry and credit cards.

Cortez

11/18, trespass warning, 4400 block of 124th Street Court West. The homeowner found a man passed out on a bench in her back yard and called the Sheriff’s Office. The deputy awakened the subject and found him intoxicated. The homeowner asked for the deputy to issue the subject a trespass warning, which he did.

Holmes Beach

11/14, driving with a suspended license, failure to change the address on the registration, 4400 block of Gulf Drive. A computer check showed the driver’s license was suspended and the officer made a traffic stop. The driver admitted he had moved and not changed the address on his registration. The officer cited him.

11/14, burglary, 100 block of 79th Street.

The home owner, who lives mostly in Tennessee, said somebody pried open a door, damaging it, but there was nothing missing. A bed was not made and she said she would check with her daughter to see if she stayed there and didn’t make the bed. The homeowner did not know about the police department’s house check program but after the officer told her about it, she said she would use it.

11/16, DUI, 3300 block of East Bay Drive.

The officer was following a vehicle that was doing 21 mph in a 35 mph zone and weaving in and out of the lane. He stopped the driver and noticed she had red, watery eyes and her eyelids were droopy. When he asked for her license

WWW.AMISUN.COM - CELEBRATING 15 YEARS

and registration, she said she was headed for a 24-hour Walgreens to return some items. The officer noticed an open can of beer in the vehicle and asked her how much she had been drinking. She said she had two beers a few hours ago.

She said she had just left the Drift In off Cortez. The officer noticed pills in the woman’s purse and asked if she had been taking any. She said she had been taking Valium. The officer asked her to get out of her vehicle for a field sobriety test. The officer arrested her as a result of the test.

11/16, theft, 300 block of 62nd Street, Two Adirondack chairs were stolen from the house while it was vacant. A neighbor said the chairs disappeared approximately six weeks ago.

11/17, battery, 100 block of 34th street beach. The suspect was arrested for hitting her live-in boyfriend in the eye after they got into an argument.

11/18, DUI, 5200 block of Gulf Drive.

While running radar at the elementary school, the officer noticed the vehicle was swerving. He made a stop. As he approached the suspect’s car, he smelled marijuana. He noticed the driver’s eyes were droopy and the driver admitted to smoking marijuana before he was stopped. He failed a field sobriety test and after being read his rights, he refused to answer any questions. He was arrested.

11/19, battery, petit theft, the trolley stop at Manatee Public Beach, 4000 Gulf Drive. The victim said he was approached by a homeless man who accused him of owing the man $20.

The victim said he didn’t, but he pulled out a $10 bill and said that’s all he had.

The suspect took the money and hit the victim on the side of his head with a closed fist. Police were unable to find the suspect, but they were familiar with him. The officer made a capias request to the state attorney’s office to investigate.

11/19, possession of marijuana, cocaine and drug paraphernalia, 600 block of Manatee Avenue. The officer ran a computer check of the suspect’s vehicle and it showed the registration had expired on Nov. 7. He stopped the driver, and when he approached the vehicle, he smelled marijuana. After backup arrived, he asked the driver to get out of the car, and he noticed leafy green substance.

Officers found silver containers with the drug, a grinder for processing marijuana and when they inspected the driver, they found cocaine. The driver and passenger were both arrested.

11/20, violation of the non-resident requirement, 5200 block of Gulf Drive. While running radar at the elementary school, the officer noticed a vehicle in the dark without the lights on. The driver gave him a Rhode Island license and he asked how long she had been living in Florida. She said since January. He ticketed her for not obtaining a Florida driver’s license.

11/20, warrant arrest, 5800 block of Flotilla

Drive. The officer ran a computer check of the driver and found his license was suspended and there was an active warrant for his arrest from Hillsborough County. The officer stopped him and placed him under arrest.

11/20, larceny, theft, 3801 East Bay Drive, Sunbow Bay. A maintenance worker said somebody stole a cordless drill and battery. The case is under investigation.

11/21, DUI, 5300 block of Gulf Drive.

Police stopped the driver after clocking him going 41 mph in a 25 mph zone.

The suspect was arrested after being given a field sobriety test.

11/21, burglary, 3605 Gulf Drive, Islands West Resort. A TV and DVD player were taken. The room was vacant, and several doors and windows were unlocked.

11/23, burglary, 500 block of 72nd Street.

A burglar entered the residence through a side door while the owners were out of town. They said they would repair the door and get a burglar alarm.

11/23, driving with a suspended license, warrant arrest, 700 block of Manatee Avenue. The officer stopped the driver because a license light was not operational. She said she did not have a license. A computer check showed she had a warrant out of Pinellas County.

She said she was driving because her mother could not drive at night. The officer noticed an extremely large lump on her arm. He asked if she needed EMS, and she said yes. While she went to the hospital, the officer completed the paperwork. She was arrested after being treated.

11/24, warrant arrest, 6600 block of Marina Drive. A random computer check showed the owner of a car the officer was following had a suspended license.

The owner was not driving the car. His

Obituaries Barbara J. Shideler Barbara J. Shideler, 85, of Holmes Beach, previously of Taylor, Mich., passed away on Nov. 30, 2015.

She is survived by her son, Robert Docherty; brother Joseph (Pamela) Forkey; sister Margaret (Ronald) Estfon; loving companion Dennis Barry; four nieces; and 1 nephew.

A celebration of life service will be announced. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Multiple System Atrophy Coalition at MSA Coalition 9935-D Rey Road #212, Charlotte NC 28277 or www.multiplesystematrophy.org.

Online condolences may be made atwww.shannonfuneralhomes.com.

DECEMBER 9, 2015

passenger told the officer she had a warrant from DeSoto County for violation of parole. She was arrested, and he was released 11/24, driving with suspended license with knowledge, 5200 block of Gulf Drive. A computer check showed the car’s registration was expired. The officer stopped the driver, who handed him her license, which was suspended because she did not complete traffic school. She was given a summons to appear.

11/25, driving with a suspended license and no proof of insurance, 3900 East Bay Drive.

A computer check showed the driver of the suspect vehicle’s license was suspended, and he did not have proof of insurance. The officer gave him a summons and a ticket.

11/25, burglary, 3801 East Bay Drive, Sunbow Bay Condos. A construction worker’s tools were taken from his vehicle.

11/27, larceny, theft, 7100 Gulf Drive. The tenants of the vacation rental said two men entered their unit unannounced to work on the air conditioner. After they left, the male tenant, his wedding ring was missing.

11/27, driving with a suspended license with knowledge, attached tag not assigned, unregistered vehicle, no insurance, 3500 block of Gulf Drive. The officer ran a computer check on the out-ofstate license and found it belonged to another vehicle. He stopped the driver who said he would be honest with him.

He said he took the license off his other truck. He handed the officer his expired license. The registration came up revoked for no insurance.

Mary A. Strickland Mary A. Strickland, 81, passed away Dec. 4, 2015.

She was an active member of Gloria Dei Lutheran Church. She worked as a seamstress her entire life and also worked for the Baltimore Orioles.

She is survived by her husband of 62 years, Louie; daughter, Chris Berra (John Macsisak); son, Robert Strickland; sister, Lois Sallada; and granddaughter, Amy Berra.

A memorial service is scheduled for 11 a.m. on Tuesday, December 8, 2015, at Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, 6608 Marina Dr., Holmes Beach.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to TideWell Hospice or Gloria Dei Lutheran Church.

Arrangements by Griffith-Cline Funeral Home. www.GriffithCline.com

DECEMBER 9, 2015

FUN IN THE SUN

Across 1 The Olympic Australis and others 6 Sound detectors 10 Move lightly 14 Full range 15 Produce on a farm 16 Biked it 17 Video game brother 18 Hold 'em fee 19 "That makes sense" 20 2002 British Open champion 21 Patient care group 24 Pay 26 "Frasier" role 27 "Arabian Nights" name 28 Duties 32 Political convention announcement 37 Novelist Tolstoy 38 Rep on the street 39 Place for a small pet

Answers to 12-02-15 Crossword Puzzle.

40 Jag, e.g.

41 Had-at link 42 Casing filler 46 Picking up, in a way 48 Quaint preposition 49 Dennings of "2 Broke Girls" 50 The "it" in "I don't want to talk about it" 55 Like much rock ... and like the last words of 21-, 32- and 42-Across?

59 Wild way to go 60 "Little Things Mean __": 1954 #1 hit 61 Quaint "not" 62 It's usually not more than a foot 64 Lead 65 Slush Puppie maker 66 Part of a meet 67 Enjoys a hero 68 Agreeing words

THE SUN

43

69 Takes chances Down 1 Looked like a wolf?

2 Eighth-century pope 3 Not quite right 4 Haul 5 Reaction causes 6 "Holy moly!"

7 Golf nickname 8 Coll. drilling group 9 Curse 10 Aunt in "Nancy" 11 Come in too late?

12 Start of a solution 13 Abound (with) 22 "Happy Days" actress Moran 23 It's retold often 25 Ratt or Poison 28 Taberna snack 29 Drawing passage 30 Crumbly salad topper 31 29-Down buildup 32 Some HDTVs 33 Push for 34 Reason for glowing letters 35 Water cooler sound 36 Humanities degs.

40 City north of Des Moines 42 Rama VII's kingdom 43 "Mary Queen of Scots" biographer Fraser 44 One of the Spice Girls

45 Built 47 Winter Olympics equipment 50 Self-gratifying outing 51 "But of course!"

52 Supermarket option 53 Speak one's mind 54 Staked shelters 55 Nutmeg spice 56 Scat legend, familiarly

57 Talk up 58 Suggestive 63 Co-star of Richard in "The Night of the Iguana"

44

WWW.AMISUN.COM - CELEBRATING 15 YEARS

THE SUN

DECEMBER 9, 2015

moratorium: Request rejected

lawsuit: dismissed FROM PAGE 1

FROM PAGE 1

After a lengthy commission discussion that included public input for and against the moratorium, Commissioner Jan Vosburgh made a motion in favor of Shearon’s agenda request.

The motion was met with silence by Vice Mayor Ed Straight and Commissioners Ralph Cole and Jake Spooner.

Shearon said the mayor cannot second a motion and declared the motion dead for lack of a second.

Moratorium proponent and Planning and Zoning Board member Frank Harrison then rose from his seat and held up the list he had presented to the commission which contained the signatures of more than 150 moratorium supporters.

“Excuse me, you just told 158 people that they don’t count,” he shouted at the commission.

When Shearon told Harrison he was out of order, Harrison yelled, “I sure am out of order.”

To the commission he then shouted “You’re definitely out of order.”

Shearon asked Harrison to leave, and he did.

Commission positions

The commission discussion began with Vosburgh trying to convince the other commission members to support the moratorium.

Cole said, “If we pass this moratorium, what is the plan? What are we trying to accomplish, and what are we going to do?”

“If we apply this moratorium, it just stops the building for six months,” Shearon said.

Cole asked if the intent was to make the proposed bedroom restrictions permanent during the commission’s forthcoming review of the revised land development code (LDC), which begins Wednesday, Dec. 9, at 1 p.m.

“We’d have six months to see if there’s other changes we want to do,” Shearon said.

Cole questioned the need to tell people how to utilize the floor space and height allowances granted in the existing building regulations.

He also questioned why the commission has not yet adopted a reso-

joe hendricks | sun

At left, Commissioner Jake Spooner shares his thoughts on the building moratorium Mayor Bill Shearon hoped to revive. lution that establishes the vacation rental license fees for the quality of life ordinance the previous commission adopted in early November.

Shearon said the commission needs to know the costs of implementation, inspections and enforcement before it can determine the licensing fees.

Spooner suggested later that staff provide that information as soon as possible.

Straight said, “I’m not quite getting the time-out thing. We already passed the ordinance and now we’re going to have a moratorium to talk about what we’re already enforcing?”

Perry said the quality of life ordinance, which does include new vacation rental regulations, cannot be enforced until the fees are established.

Spooner said, “We already have this quality of life ordinance in place. We just need to get the fees done, and that addresses the behavioral problems everyone complains about. We just had a really busy weekend for Thanksgiving, and I’d like to know how many complaints our police department got? I heard there was a complaint, and it was actually two people talking on a porch.”

Spooner mentioned a large family that lives near him with eight people sharing the household, including two

foreign exchange students.

“If the goal is to not have homes with more than four bedrooms, that’s not my ultimate goal,” he said.

“I live right across the street from a six-bedroom, four-bath, and I’ve never had any problems,” he added, noting that when there are large gatherings at the vacation rental he helps guests avoid parking tickets by suggesting additional parking places, including his own driveway.

“I don’t know why we’re peeking out our windows asking why kids are making noise in the pool. These are normal activities, and if there are problems the police can go there and say you guys need to cool it,” Spooner said, noting that those who visit the Island are “nice families” and not the monsters some make them out to be.

Making a final plea, Vosburgh said, “I’m all for property rights, but I also care about the few residents we have left in Bradenton Beach. What direction do we want the city to go in? Do we want just big houses? We have not done our job looking out for our residents and I’m almost thinking it’s too late. All those builders who can’t build in Anna Maria and Holmes Beach are going to come here and that’s all we’re going to have,” she concluded.

COUPLE: Arrest made in another sex on the beach case FROM PAGE 23

After being read their rights, Acklin said they had been drinking and smoking marijuana prior to the officers’ arrival.

The officers placed the couple in handcuffs and drove them to the police station for process-

ing. They were charged with exposure of sexual organs and possession of alcohol on the beach.

According to the report, “Acklin continued to act like the incident wasn’t a big deal and he should get to go home.”

Acklin told police Buffaline started acting provocatively, which lead to them having sex.

Buffaline refused to cooperate and said she would not say anything without her lawyer.

There was a previous case of sex on the beach this year.

On May 27, Jose Caballero, 40, and Elissa Alvarez, 20, were arrested for having sex in front of children on the beach. He was sentenced to 2 1/2 years in jail while Alvarez was sentenced to time served. Both were placed on the sexual offender list.

parties to this cause hereby agree to dismissal of this action, without prejudice to the filing of any future suit for damages, or challenging the city of Anna Maria Ordinance 15-807, or any future amendment thereto. This dismissal will also serve to dissolve the current temporary injunction. Further, the parties agree that each party shall bear their own attorney’s fees and costs incurred in connection with this lawsuit.”

Murphy, Carter, Commission Chair Doug Copeland and Commissioner Dale Woodland attended Tuesday’s meeting and Vose participated by phone. Commissioners Nancy Yetter and Chuck Webb were unable to attend the meeting that was scheduled on short notice Monday afternoon.

When presenting the settlement agreement and motion to dismiss to the commission, Vose said she thought it was an excellent settlement. She said the settlement reached with the plaintiff’s attorney, Kevin Hennessy, came just before another court hearing on the matter was tentatively scheduled to take place this week.

Vose said Hennessy asked the city to cover $10,000 in non-attorney fees the plaintiffs’ incurred, but the city did not agree to that proposal.

She also explained that the dismissal without prejudice meant any of the plaintiffs could file a similar lawsuit in the future if they so desired.

The settlement agreement and motion to dismiss also lifts the temporary injunction that had been in place since July, which means the city can begin the vacation rental registration process on Jan. 1. The ordinance will take effect on April 1.

With no further discussion, Woodland’s motion to approve the settlement agreement passed unanimously.

“Well this closes a chapter and I want to thank the mayor and Carol for all the work they did through the mediation; the commission for the work they did leading up to this; and especially attorney Vose for the hard work she put into this. Hopefully we can move on now; and good luck to our mayor and code enforcement because now your work begins,” Copeland said.

“Great work on behalf of attorney Vose and our mayor,” Carter added.

“I think this is a really good result,” said Vose.

After the meeting, Murphy said, “I’m glad that we’ve got this chapter behind us and we can now move on. Now we can put all the mechanics in place that we need to make a smooth transition into the enforcement of this ordinance.”

None of the plaintiffs were available for comment Tuesday morning A second lawsuit filed on behalf of Pine Avenue Restoration LLC on July 28 remains open, but may also be headed for resolution soon, in part because the new vacation rental ordinance exempts the Residential/Office/Retail (ROR) zone district along Pine Avenue.

“I’m going to be contacting them and hopefully it (the lawsuit) will go away. We want to get beyond all the litigation,” Vose said after the meeting.

DECEMBER 9, 2015

classified

ANNOUNCEMENTS

BOATS: PARTS & SERVICES & SALES

BEACH YOGA ON Saturdays & Sundays at 8:30am at the end of Pine Ave by the Sandbar Restaurant by donation. www. thriveyogafit.com ARTISAN TREASURES RETAIL SHOPPE has a large collection of gift ideas for those special people in your life. Located 5851 Cortez Rd W, Bradenton Fl. Open 10-5 Tue- Sun. 941-216-3703.

Happy holidays to you!

ATTIC FANATIC THRIFT ANTIQUES FURNITURE AND COLLECTIBLES: Just off the Island We have a great selection of Antiques, Nautical, Furniture, Taxidermy, Collectibles and eclectic items, Bicycles, Coins, Militaria, Books, House and Kitchen Wares, Coca Cola items and really too much to list. Come by and see us - Always Fair and Friendly 10113 Cortez Road West Bradenton 34210 Call 941795-1300

SEASON HAS STARTEDBoats Needed. Excellent Location-Cortez.

We Also Buy Boats. www.Islandboatsales. net. 941-228-3489 BOAT SLIPS FOR RENT. Up to 60 feet. Two minutes to Intracoastal Waterway by Cortez, Parrot Cove Marina 941-795-0088 GREAT BOAT SLIP with Lift, water, electric, 2 finger piers, Key Royale Canal Head, No Bridges. $275/ mo. Greg 410-782-9100.

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

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

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

THE BEST VOLUNTEER position on the island. The AMI Historical Museum needs docents and bread makers. Call Dusty at 941779-7688.

ROSER FOOD BANK needs donations of cash and non-perishable food. Donations boxes are located at the Church, Moose Club, Walgreen's and The Anna Maria Island Sun Newspaper (corner of Gulf and Palm).

CLEANING: RESIDENTIAL, COMMERCIAL & RENTALS. "Have it done your way, we care about our work" Call 941-7564570 PRESSURE WASHING AND WINDOWS residential, commercial & resorts. Roofs, buildings, houses, driveways etc.

Call 941-251-5948

AUTOMOTIVE SALES & SERVICE 2008 PT CRUISER CONVERTIBLE 44,500 miles Excellent Condition Great for island cruising Asking $8,750 Call 978-535-7790 or text 2003 805 SUZUKI MOTORCYCLE White with lots of chrome. Good shape & runs good. Saddle Bags. $3,000 OBO Call 941-2245328

BABY SITTER RED CROSS CERTIFIED baby sitter. Honor student.

Call or text Isabel 941-5457995

Call us today! 941-778-3986

COMMERCIAL SALES/ LEASES/RENTALS ANNA MARIA CITY Gulf Drive Frontage Existing well known Restaurant Business, Equip & Good will for sale $299,000 Call Alan Galletto, Island Real Estate 941-2322216

RESTAURANT/OFFICE/ RETAIL 1113 sf Kitchen Equipment include Gulf Drive Bradenton Beach $495,000 Call Alan Galletto Island Real Estate 941-232-2216

1200 SQ FT COMMERCIAL SPACE in prime location, Village of Cortez. Call A Paradise Realty for more information. 941-778-4800

COMPUTER SERVICES EMPIRE COMPUTER SERVICE Computer problems fixed in your home or office. The fastest friendliest service around. Serving the Island since 2004. Call 941-739-6424

EMPLOYMENT

GIFT SHOP on AMI. Part-Time Position. Retiree’s welcome. Call 813-409-7540

HELP WANTED STYLIST & NAIL TECHNICIAN. Current License required.

Flexible hours. Small shop on Island. Call Owner 941538-0225 BARTENDER-PART TIME Apply @ Bortell’s 10002 Gulf Dr. Anna Maria. Any Day after 1:00 PART TIME ASSISTANT 10 hours a week, light housekeeping, prep work for cooking, doing bank and store runs. All around Girl Friday. $12/hr to start. Call 941-778-4451 ask for Jane MAD MARKS STEREO WAREHOUSE 3007 1st St Bradenton fl is looking for a motivated sales person.

You must have knowledge of car electronics truck accessories or marine electronics. Mad Marks is also hiring experienced installers for marine and car electronics. Apply in person or email at madmarksstereo@aol.com NEW RESTAURANT OPENING – NOW HIRING Full- and part-time positions available for cooks, bussers, food runners & cashiers. Come be a part of the Anna Maria Oyster Bar team at our new location on Bradenton Beach’s Bridge Street Pier! Please apply in person at 200 Bridge Street, Bradenton Beach, from 9am to 6pm, Monday through Sunday.

Anna Maria Oyster Bar is a Drug-Free Workplace.

LOCAL REAL ESTATE Company looking for a Vacation Rental Preservationist. Experience Required.

Please send resume to P.O. Box 1299 Anna Maria, FL 34216

THE SUN

ESTATE SALE ESTATE SALE. Saturday December 12 , 8am until 3pm. Furniture, LR, DR, BR, curved writing desk , pictures, misc. 505 Key Royale Drive.

FOR SALE TWO TWIN BEDS wood cherry complete with comforters, sheets, four pillows $225 AMI 304-633-3635 HISTORIC "FAST EDDIES" FISHING CLUB SIGN The original sign from Fast Eddies restaurant, Anna Maria Island 48" circular. Historic!

Call for pricing. 941-7791009 HOT TUB-4 PERSON, Uses regular 120 outlet, works.

Best offer. 218-779-5267

FURNITURE CUSTOM COASTAL FURNITURE & CABINETS by Frankie Z. ebay store.

Call 941-726-1482. 10015 Cortez Rd (corner of 101st) frankiezaff@yahoo.com

GARAGE, MOVING, RUMMAGE & YARD SALES SALE! NIKI’S GIFT & ANTIQUE SHOP 5351 Gulf Dr, Holmes Beach.

All Sterling Jewelry 20% to 50% off. Select Gifts, Miniatures, Japanese War Dolls, Vintage & Costume Jewelry, Pirate sings, books, glassware 30% to 80% off.

Lots of Driftwood, Scented Soaps. Women’s tops from India, Beachwear. Open 7 days 9:30am-5pm.

ROSER THRIFT SHOP and ANNEX; Open 9:30a.m.

- 2p.m. Tuesday and Thursday, and 10a.m- 1p.m. Saturday.. Donations accepted 9-11 a.m. Wednesdays.

511 Pine Ave., Anna Maria 941-779-2733 GARAGE SALE SATURDAY & SUNDAY December 12 & 13. 326 Hardin Ave 9am-until. Clothes, kitchen ware, framed picture Christmas decorations.

Much more FUND RAISER WILD LIFE INC Huge Sale.

Great prices, deals & Cause. December 11 & 12 Friday & Saturday.

9am-3pm 506 65th St Holmes Beach

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 941-5042222 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.

LANDSCAPING & LAWN CARE STRAIGHT SHOT LANDSCAPING. Save water, gas, maintenance fees and the environment! Shell your yard. $50/yd installed. Call Shark Mark 941-301-6067 R. GAROFALO’S Interlocking brick pavers, driveways, patios, pool decks. Free estimates. Licensed & Insured.

Call Rafael 941-778-4823 or Veronik 941-526-7941 SHELL DELIVERED AND spread $50/yd. Hauling all kinds of gravel, mulch, top soil with free estimates. Call Larry at 941-795-7775, "shell phone" 941-720-0770

LOST & FOUND FOUND BERNAFON CN9 N Hearing Aid for the right ear at Ace Hardware Store on Wed, Nov 18. 3352 East Bay Dr, Holmes Beach or Call 941-778-0999

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LOST CAT “FIDO” He adopted us 16 years ago. His turf is in the area of 5392 Gulf Dr. near Time Saver and Niki’s . Has collar with a bell, chipped by Animal Clinic. If found please call 941-518-6329.

FOUND EYEGLASSES on beach in Holmes Beach city limits, early morning of November 2. Call 941-7784754

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

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

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

941-812-0507 WALY PRECISION PAINTING custom painting, pressure washing, commercial/residential, interior/exterior, drywall/stucco, Licensed & insured. Call 941-448-1928 or 941-580-4005 www.

WalyPrecisionPainting.com “WIZARD OF WALLS”.

Established 1980 Prompt quality service.

Paperhanging/removal Faux finishes. Interior painting. Mary Bell 941794-0455 DONALD PERKINS PAINTING LLC fully insured. 30 years experience many Island references Call 941705-7096

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

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THE SUN

classified

POOL SERVICES 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 LOOKING TO BUY or SALE a home? Contact Darcie Duncan for a personal approach to your real estate needs that will always make you feel at home. Discover the Duncan Difference.

941-779-0304 WEST BRADENTON: 3BR/2BA/2CG Home with screened lanai and nice yard in Arbor Oaks Subdivision. Only a few miles to the Beach. Community pool, lawn care etc. For carefree living, come and go as you please. Reduced to $219,900. A Paradise Realty. Call JoAnne 941809-2488 INVESTOR ALERT 1BR/1BA CONDO on Longboat Key may be rented 52 times per year, turn key furnished. $269,900, Erlene Fitzpatrick RE/MAX Alliance Group 941-224-6339

Call us today! 941-778-3986

BRADENTON COUNTRY CLUB 3BR/2BA home with upgrades on the Golf Course. Rarely available a must see! $399,000.

Brenda Boyd May Boyd Realty 941-730-8589.

AFFORABLE LIVING DOUBLE Wide 2BR/2BA in 55+ park. Pool, Club house, Activities. Low fee, Land Owned. $55,000. We have others. Real Estate Mart 941-356-1456 LIFE IS GOOD LIVING on beautiful Anna Maria island a short walk to award winning beaches. 3BR/2.5BA elevated home with fenced free form pool and spa and 4 car garage. Karen Fineout Wagner realty 941518-3682 $749,000 FOR SALE 1 BLOCK from Beach. 1/2 of duplex.

2BR/1BA concrete block. New private deck, plumbing & electrical.

Nicely furnished. Good Rental History. Located at 205 71st St $298,000.

Brokers protected 813892-3690

REAL ESTATE: LOTS FOR SALE BEAUTIFUL LOT AT 1107 Palma Sola Blvd. Ready to build your dream home.

For more info call Gregg Bayer at AMI Beaches Realestate Call 941-567-5234

REAL ESTATE: OPEN HOUSE OPEN HOUSE: PRICED REDUCED! Sunday December 13. 1-3 PM 4BR/4 3300+ sq. ft. 8324 MARINA DR, Holmes Beach.

Gorgeous, beautiful layout, gourmet kitchen, art studio, huge master suite, large courtyard.

Linda Cinque Broker/ Associate Wagner Realty 941-228-5003.

RENTALS: ANNUAL 1BR/1BA in Triplex near St. Stephen’s / Manatee High. Water, Sewer, Trash, electric & Gas incl. . $825/ mo, $825 security. Credit & Background required.

Available Now. Ask for Ed. DUNCAN REAL ESTATE 941-779-0304 www. teamduncan.com ANNUAL RENTAL and CONDOMINIUM Association management serviced by (2) offices open 7 days a week! Contact junew@ islandreal.com – 941-3451295 - Island Real Estate of Anna Maria Island, Inc.

DECEMBER 9, 2015

PALMA SOLA HARBOUR: 1BR/1BA furnished villa w/community pool, boat docks, & fitness center. $1300/mo. or winter rental – 3 month minimum at $2600/mo. Available Jan. 1 Contact junew@ islandreal.com or 941-3451295 ANNUAL RENTAL- Anna Maria, 3BR/2BA home with garage. $2,200/mo.

Fran Maxon Real Estate 941-778-2307.

ANNUAL 2BR/2BA Holmes Beach. Tile through-out.

Washer/Dryer hookups, double carport, large storage room. Steps to Gulf with view $1600/mo plus utilities. First, last and security Call 941-778-3427

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

AMISUN.COM

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!

VACATION RENTALS FOR January, February, March 2016. Palma Sola Townhouse 2BR/2BA pool, boat dock $3000/mo Perico Bay Club 2BR/2BA Villa pool, tennis $3500/mo. Realtor 941-356-1456 SEASONAL/MONTHLY COZY COTTAGE tastefully furnished, close to the beach, tennis courts and boat ramp in Holmes Beach. Call 941-778-2919 1BR/1BA DUPLEX. Ceramic/laminate floors, screened lanai, laundry.

Steps to beach & shopping. Small pet considered. $1950 per month. 941779-9470

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 ROGER'S AIRPORT SERVICE. Tampa, St. Pete/ Clearwater, Sarasota/ Bradenton. Call Roger 941773-1469

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DECEMBER 9, 2015