Anna Maria Island Sun February 22, 2017

FREE

VOL 17 No. 19

February 22, 2017

Fishing festival celebrates 35

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

CORTEZ – At the edge of the main parking lot at the Cortez Commercial Fishing Festival is a fringe of green, the edge of the 95-acre FISH Preserve, made possible by the modest admission price

paid by thousands of festival fans over the past 35 years.

The Florida Institute for Saltwater Heritage (FISH) purchased the last, long-coveted privately owned parcel last summer from Iris LeMasters, of Grand Rapids, Mich., who had offered it at $1.2 million 12 years ago, inviting buyers to

“Build your Florida dream home on this one-of-a-kind half-acre bayfront lot completely surrounded by preserve.”

FISH paid $185,000 for the land, making the preserve 95 contiguous acres of uplands and wetlands bordered by Corsee festival, page 24

cindy lane | SUN

Far left The aroma of shrimp with red peppers and onions wafted over the food court, luring people from the art and fishing exhibits. Above, Kids enjoyed touching live, wet, and slightly scary underwater creatures at the Fishing for Freedom touch tank. Left, Famous strawberry shortcake made by the ladies of the Cortez Village Historical Society flew off the table.

Commissioners turn back time on speed limit changes

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

HOLMES BEACH — Commissioners may not be able to undo the speed limit changes of the past 18 months, but they’re giving it their best shot.

After hearing from 17 Island residents and business owners during public comment, Holmes Beach commissioners voted unanimously Feb. 14 to request the Florida Department of Transportation return the speed limit on a stretch of Manatee Avenue to 35 miles per hour.

The speed limit on the span of state road from the west end of the Anna

INSIDE NEWS OPINION Sun survey sean murphy outdoors Art on the Island real estate sports

4 6 7 21 26-27 34-35 34-40 41

Maria Island Bridge to Gulf Drive was reduced to 25 mph at the end of January, angering local motorists.

The change came after conversations between Holmes Beach Police Chief Bill Tokajer, Mayor Bob Johnson and FDOT representatives regarding potentially lowering the speed limit to alleviate shared road safety concerns.

Both Tokajer and Johnson said they had expected FDOT to conduct and submit a traffic study for discussion and input by the city before any action was taken. Neither knew the change see speed, page 36

french table:

A bit of France on the beach. 14

Anna Maria Island, Florida

Kristin Swain | Sun

A bicyclist shares the road Feb. 15 with motorists entering Holmes Beach via Manatee Avenue.

More ‘funny MONEY’ TURNS UP ON ANNA MARIA ISLAND.

12

real gulf shrimp star at the Blue

Marlin in Food & Wine on 25.

The Island’s award-winning weekly newspaper

www.amisun.com

2

THE SUN

www.amisun.com

FEBRUARY 22, 2017

FEBRUARY 22, 2017

www.amisun.com

THE SUN

3

Water taxi vendor seeks support from island cities BIEO members approved sending a letter to Sarasota County speaking in favor of island water taxis.

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

ANNA MARIA — The Coalition of Barrier Island Elected Official is willing to support island water taxis, but not individual vendors.

Sherman Baldwin, general manager of Paradise Boat Tours, appeared before BIEO members Feb. 15 during a meeting at Anna Maria City Hall to request a letter of support for his proposed water taxi and ferry services from Sarasota to Bradenton Beach.

Baldwin said he would be pleading his case Feb. 21 before Sarasota County commissioners with the hope of receiving a permit to dock and allow customers to park at one of three proposed downtown Sarasota locations. If he receives the permit, Baldwin said ferry service could begin in early March to Bradenton Beach.

“We look forward to being able to

bring people to the Island without their cars,” he said.

His plan is to provide year-round ferry service targeting locals, commuters and day trippers. “Tourists will be the icing on the cake,” he said.

Daily trips will begin at 8 a.m. in Sarasota and continue every 75 minutes until a final ferry departs Anna Maria Island at 10:30 p.m.

Tickets are expected to cost $12.50 roundtrip.

Baldwin also hopes to use a smaller boat to taxi passengers from the Historic Bridge Street Pier to Keyes Marina in Holmes Beach, if an agreement can be reached with the city regarding parking and permitting.

Bradenton Beach Mayor Bill Shearon was in favor of the BIEO providing a letter of support for Baldwin.

Longboat Key Vice Mayor Phill Younger said he wouldn’t be in favor of the organization supporting a specific vendor with more than one working to obtain permission to begin providing water taxi and ferry services to both barrier islands.

Dr. Bob Myers, of Tampa Bay

Kristin Swain | Sun

Sherman Baldwin, general manager of Paradise Boat Tours in Bradenton Beach, shows island elected officials a sample boat route map Feb. 15, including a proposed water taxi route from Sarasota to the Historic Bridge Street Pier in Bradenton Beach.

Ferry, also spoke to the BIEO, citing similar parking concerns regarding the ferry service he would like to establish from Fort DeSoto to Anna Maria Island.

Holmes Beach Mayor Bob Johnson suggested members sign a letter of

support for a water taxi and ferry service without naming a specific vendor, something the other BIEO members readily agreed to.

The issue also was brought before Holmes Beach commissioners during their Feb. 14 meeting.

In addition to a presentation from Baldwin, Brian Riley told commissioners he would like to pursue a water taxi service in the city, but also is facing problems with receiving permission from the city.

“We’re trying to bring business to Holmes Beach, not take it away,” he said.

Holmes Beach Commissioner Carol Soustek spoke in favor of adding an Island water taxi service as an alternative transportation method. However, she said before vendors could be allowed to begin business within the city, commissioners would have to address what the permitting process would be.

“We have nothing on the books addressing water taxis,” she said. “It’s vital we start looking at alternate ways to move people around the Island.”

Chair Judy Titsworth agreed to put the matter on an upcoming meeting agenda for discussion.

4

THE SUN

ISLAND NEWS

in brief Statewide tourism up

Florida has set another tourism record, with 112.8 million visitors in 2016, according to Gov. Rick Scott, crediting Visit Florida and questioning legislative efforts to eliminate the state tourism marketing agency.

It’s the sixth consecutive record year for visitation to Florida, exceeding the previous high of 106.6 million in 2015 by 5.9 percent. Tourism jobs also hit a record high in 2016 of 1.4 million.

Visit Florida estimates that a record 98 million domestic visitors traveled to Florida in 2016, reflecting a 7.3 percent increase over 2015. Estimates also show that 11.1 million overseas visitors and 3.7 million Canadians visited Florida last year.

The average daily room rate rose 2 percent and the number of rooms sold grew by 1.1 percent compared to 2015, according to Visit Florida.

Chamber meets in west Bradenton The Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce holds this month’s business card exchange on Wednesday, Feb. 22, from 5 to 7 p.m. at the clubhouse at Palma Sola Bay Club, at 3410 77th St. W. in Bradenton. There will be networking by the pool and clubhouse while sipping on adult beverages, snacking on treats and watching the sun set over Palma Sola Bay. Enter the community on 34th Avenue West off of 75th Street West. The clubhouse is on the left.

Parking is available around the clubhouse and pool and by lot 17, which is on the right as you enter the community. There are also big grass areas by the clubhouse and lot 17 for parking.

The cost to attend this event is $5 for members and $10 for prospective members. RSVPs are suggested. Call 941-778-1541.

Saint Paddy’s Day Parade set Restaurateur Sean Murphy will again celebrate Ireland’s patron Saint, St, Patrick, with a parade through Holmes Beach on Sunday, March 19.

As before, the parade will start at Eat Here with participants assembling at 2 p.m. At 4 p.m., they will go north from Eat Here up Marina Drive and Palm Drive to 78th street, where the parade ends.

This year’s parade marshal will be World War II veteran Bob Schweiger.

This year, two camels will grace the parade, in memory of Judy the Elephant, a veteran marcher who passed away two years ago. Murphy said Judy would always be the only elephant in the parade, except for the pink ones spotted by spectators who sucked down too much green beer. Murphy explained why he got camels.

“Camels have always been regarded as mystical animals by the Irish,” he said. “That’s because they can go two weeks without drinking.”

Visit our website, www.amisun.com.

Scan this code with your smartphone to go there.

FEBRUARY 22, 2017

Citizens’ efforts assist with arrest

Before his recent arrests, Richard Parker worked on the Island.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA – The computer skills of an Island teen and information circulated by some Island moms contributed to the arrest of 20-year-old Richard Parker on charges of petty theft.

Parker was arrested twice last week. The first arrest occurred mid-week due to his Parker suspected involvement in the theft and sale of fishing equipment stolen from a Longboat Key condominium complex in November, which was then sold under false pretenses to a pawn shop in Manatee County. Parker’s court records list the Longboat Key charge for dealing stolen property as a second degree felony.

While in custody on the Longboat Key charges, Parker was arrested a second time for his suspected involvement in a petty theft that occurred in Anna Maria in January.

On Jan. 30, Jennifer Kaleta reported that a Star Shower laser projector had been stolen from her back yard.

Surveillance video showed the projector was actually removed on Jan. 28, and it indicated the presence of a white 2003 Ford pickup that was later determined to be Parker’s.

That same night, Anna Maria resident Laurie Higgins had her cell phone, her purse and a backpack containing her son Bryce’s text books stolen from her car while it was parked in the driveway of her family’s home.

Both crimes were reported to Sgt. Russell Schnering and the Anna Maria division of the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office, and Kaleta’s surveillance video was provided to assist with the investigative efforts.

Using a computer program, Bryce Higgins, 14, converted the surveillance video into black and white still photographs that he was able to digitally enhance in terms clarity. The photos were then circulated throughout the community, posted on Facebook, displayed at the Anna Maria Island General Store and distributed to law enforcement agencies in Holmes Beach and Bradenton Beach as well. The photos eventually made their way to Det. Sgt. Roger Bourque at the Longboat Key Police Department.

On Friday, Schnering explained how Parker was arrested in connection with the crime that occurred at the Kaleta residence.

“Longboat Key had charges for dealing in stolen property. Sgt. Bourque called me and said I have a picture of your truck up there and I know whose it is; and that’s how we ran with it,” Schnering said.

“When he became a suspect in one of our petty thefts up on the north end, we went ahead and arrested him on Longboat Key’s warrant. We interviewed him and he confessed to the theft he did in Anna Maria at the Kaleta residence, stealing the outside projector, which is petty theft,” Schnering said of Parker’s arrest.

“We did question this young man about the car burglaries that happened at the Higgins’ house, and we didn’t get anything out of him, so we didn’t get him on those charges. We did pull some fingerprints from the car burglary, and we’re waiting for those to come back,” Schner-

Submitted | Laurie Higgins

Surveillance video helped identify the owner of this white Ford pickup truck that was later determined to be owned by a young man arrested on charges of petty theft.

Submitted | Laurie Higgins

14-year-old Bryce Higgins, shown with his mom Laurie, played a role in solving a case involving the theft of a laser projector. ing said.

Parker lives in Bradenton. Prior to his recent arrests, he worked on the Island as a pool technician for a local company.

“That’s why we acted on this so quickly. We don’t want him out there running around, having access to people’s houses when they are not home,” Schnering said.

Parker did not service the Kaleta and Higgins homes, and Schnering was not aware of any other suspicious activity reported in connection with Parker’s employment as a pool technician.

“Due to our liability in the community, I had to let him go. He’s no longer employed here,” his employer said on Friday, expressing hope that the young man can get his life turned around.

www.amisun.com

FEBRUARY 22, 2017

THE SUN

5

Ugly Grouper expansion approved

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

HOLMES BEACH — It’s official, The Ugly Grouper is expanding.

Project manager Bob Dwyer received good news from city commissioners Feb. 14. After months of negotiations, the restaurant, located across the street from city hall, is being allowed to expand its seating, increasing from 96 to 173 during the day and 239 seats after 5 p.m. The amount of allowed seats approved was slightly less than the 281 nighttime seats restaurant owners were hoping for, but made for an acceptable compromise based on the restaurant’s available parking.

Despite previously agreeing to count golf cart parking spaces as available spaces, commissioners decided to not include the spaces in the final count, citing a need to hold every business in the city to the same standard of one space for every three seats.

City Planner Bill Brisson suggested commissioners approve the amount of seats allowable by the restaurant’s onsite, off-site and shared parking,

KRISTIN SWAIN | SUN

The Ugly Grouper is undergoing minor renovations to allow the restaurant at 5704 Marina Drive to increase seating and reduce sound pollution for neighbors. while also giving Dwyer the option of having an independent contractor conduct a parking study for the property to support a future request for additional seating.

Part of the agreement between Dwyer and the city is the restaurant’s control of its outdoor amplified music.

Commissioner Pat Morton cited a

concern for neighboring residences, saying he’s been able to hear music from the restaurant four blocks away.

Chair Judy Titsworth said she feels residents are being “bullied into changing,” with some having potentially purchased their homes under the assumption that amplified music was not allowed in the city.

Dwyer said the amplified music

would end nightly at 8 p.m. and the restaurant’s stage would be professionally reconfigured to reduce the amount of sound audible to neighboring properties. He also agreed to place a mechanism on the restaurant’s sound equipment that shuts the system down immediately if sound increases over a set decibel level.

“If I can walk out the door and hear the music, it’s too loud,” Petruff said.

“We have always been under the impression we would have to be compliant with any future or current noise ordinance,” Dwyer said. “We don’t want to be treated any different than anyone else out there.”

Commissioners approved the special exception for amplified music with the stipulation the allowance can be revisited if violation of the city’s noise ordinance becomes an issue. Petruff also added a stipulation for the commission to revisit the site plan if restaurant parking becomes an issue.

The amended agreement received a unanimous vote of approval from commissioners.

6

THE SUN

OPINIOn

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

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

FEBRUARY 22, 2017

EDITORIAL Speed of light?

T

wenty-five or 35? Thirty-five or 45?

Keep your eyes open and your head on a swivel. If you are a motorist on Anna Maria Island you will no doubt run into all of these speed limits, and possibly more, as you try to drive from point A to point B in paradise.

Last week, the Holmes Beach City Commission attempted to bring some order to this patchwork quilt approach to speed regulation on AMI. The commissioners voted unanimously to ask state highway authorities to return the speed limit to 35 mph on the stretch of Manatee Avenue from the west end of the AMI Bridge to Gulf Drive. That limit had been lowered to 25 mph at the end of January by the Florida Department of Transportation.

The speed limit crossing the bridge also was lowered from 45 mph to 35 mph.

Problem was, nobody in the city was informed of the change. Instead, everyone woke up to find new speed limit signs had been installed by the FDOT overnight.

True, Police Chief Bill Tokajer and Mayor Dan Johnson had talked to state authorities last year about possibly lowering the speed limit. Both had expected the state to do a traffic study and make it available for public discussion before any action was taken.

Neither of those things were done by FDOT, however, leaving city officials and Island motorists tapping their brakes, scratching their heads and wondering what just happened.

And so, the city has asked that the limits be returned to what they were before the state's midnight maneuvers. In addition, the motion asks the state to change the speed limit along Gulf Drive near Anna Maria Elementary School back to 35 mph from 25 mph. The speed limit there was reduced in May 2016

by Chief Tokajer, acting as the city’s traffic engineer, also without commission input.

The proposal also asks the state to conduct a traffic study on both areas and then revisit the issue of safety once that study has been done and discussed publicly.

There's nothing unreasonable about that request. Perhaps a traffic study can shed light on the debate over which is better on Island roads - 25 mph vs. 35 mph. That remains to be seen.

Ironic, though, that while we discuss the relative merits of various speed limits, none of that has much effect on Island motorists right now. We're all stuck in traffic gridlock and crawling along at 5 mph anyway.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Efforts appreciated

Thank you to our island friends for all you have done during my husband's recent month-long hospital and rehab time. Many have visited and called him and called to make sure everything was OK. Special thanks to Susan Timmons and Sean Murphy for our 30-year friendship and surprising my husband at the rehab with a dinner from the Beach Bistro tonight. You have no idea how much that meant to him. He will be home soon and we could not of done this without my community.

Carol Whitmore Dr. Andre Renard Holmes Beach

Good move, commission I would like to thank the Holmes Beach city commissioners for agreeing to restore the 35 mph speed limit from the Anna Maria Island Bridge to the public beach and in front of Anna Maria Elementary school. To make either of those stretches of road 25 mph was excessive,

as they are not dangerous areas, and when school children are present in the vicinity of the school, the speed limit already is reduced to15 mph. In addition, to have a patchwork of speed limits from 35 to 25 in the city sets up a particularly confusing situation for motorists and some would say creates a speed trap.

Pat Copeland Anna Maria

Good move, commission, 2 Reduced speed limits, stop signs and speed traps can be found all over Holmes Beach.

Yesterday, I attended the Holmes Beach City Commission meeting to learn that commissioners were just as surprised as city residents and business owners that new speed limit reductions were posted on SR 64 (Manatee Avenue). After massive protests by residents, commissioners voiced their concern that Police Chief William Tokajer single-handedly and without approval of the city commission proposed lower speed limits to FDOT (Florida

Take The Sun Survey on Page 7.

Department of Transportation).

All this without conducting a traffic study as requested by Mayor Bob Johnson. Eventually, commissioners sent a clear message to the chief: Do not reduce speed limits without being told to do so. It was time to let Chief Tokajer know who really is in charge of the city. Thank you, city commissioners, for taking the steering wheel back in your hands.

Monika Klotz Holmes Beach

Your thoughts?

Got an opinion, a complaint or a compliment? Is there something you need to get off your chest? Send us a letter to the editor and have your say. There are several ways to doit.

Visit our website at www.amisun.com and click on the “contact us” link at the top of the home page. Or, e-mail The Sun directly at news@amisun.com. You can mail a letter to us at The Anna Maria Island Sun, Island Sun Plaza, P.O. Box 1189, Anna Maria, FL 34216.

Letters should be kept to 300 words or less and must contain your name and the city in which you reside. Personal attacks and obscene language will not be printed. Letters also may be edited for length and content.

www.amisun.com

FEBRUARY 22, 2017

THE SUN

the sun survey

on the agenda

PREVIOUS QUESTION: Should the county continue to heavily market AMI or have we reached the saturation point?

Anna Maria

8%

Continue promoting the Island. Tourism is our main source of income.

10005 Gulf Drive.

2/23: City Commission meeting, 6 p.m.

For information, call 7086130.

Bradenton Beach 107 Gulf Drive N.

2/22: Planning and Zoning Board, 1 p.m.

For information, call 7781005.

7

Holmes Beach 5801 Marina Drive.

2/28: City commission meeting, 6 p.m.

3/1: Parks and beautification committee, 10 a.m.

3/2: City commission work session, 6 p.m.

For information, call 7085800.

mark your calendar Note: Events are free unless indicated.

Wednesday Feb. 22

92%

Back off the marketing. There's nowhere to put anymore people.

THIS WEEK’S SURVEY • Reduce the frequency to twice an Should Island drawbridge openings be reduced to twice hour. Each opening wreaks havoc an hour for passing boats or remain at three times an hour? with traffic.

• Keep it at three times an hour.

Boaters have just as much right to travel as motorists.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Thursday

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 Cindy Lane Joe Hendricks Kristin Swain

Tom Vaught Columnists Louise Bolger Outdoors editor Rusty Chinnis Ad director Chantelle Lewin Ad assistant Chris Boniberger

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

Distribution Bob Alexander Tony McNulty Contributors Steve Borggren Monica Simpson Rusty Chinnis

Feb. 23

Four elements earth walk: fire, Ungarelli Preserve, 4000 Palma Sola Blvd., Bradenton, 9 a.m.

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

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

American contract bridge league, open pairs duplicate bridge games, Aging in Paradise Resource Center, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive,

Longboat Key, second floor, 1 to 4 p.m., $11 per game with snacks included.

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

Kelly McBride, writer, Media Ethics, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2 p.m.

Jam in the Sand, Anna Maria Island Beach Café, 4000 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, 5 to 8 p.m.

Bingo, Annie Silver Community Center, 103 23rd St. N., Bradenton Beach, 7 to 9 p.m. Refreshments available for purchase.

Friday Feb. 24

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

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

Computer class: Windows 10, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2 p.m.

High school home school science club: Splash Trash Tour, Robinson Preserve, 1704 99th St. NW, Bradenton, 2 p.m. Reserve to 941748-4501, ext. 6039.

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

Saturday Feb. 25

Guided tours, Splash Trash Exhibit, Robinson Preserve, 1704 99th St. NW, Bradenton, 9 a.m. Reserve to 941748-4501, ext. 6039.

CPR training, Island Branch SEE CALENDAR, PAGE 8

8

www.amisun.com

THE SUN

FEBRUARY 22, 2017

Eagle snacks

mark your calendar FROM PAGE 7

Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 9 a.m.

Naturalist-led wagon tour, Robinson Preserve, 1704 99th St. NW, Bradenton, 9 a.m.

American contract bridge league, open pairs duplicate bridge games, Aging in Paradise Resource Center, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, second floor, 1 to 4 p.m., $11 per game with snacks included.

Reserve to maryannbrady@ aginginparadise.org or 941383-6493.

Card making with Chris, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 3 p.m.

Sunday Feb. 26

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

Monday Feb. 27

Aging Mastery Program, 10-

S

part series, Aging in Paradise Resource Center, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, second floor, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., $100 with snacks provided for 10 workshops.

Reserve to maryannbrady@ aginginparadise.org or 941383-6493.

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

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

Tuesday Feb. 28

Kayaking for first timers, Robinson Preserve, 1704 99th St. NW, Bradenton, 9 a.m. Reserve to 941-7425757, ext. 7.

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

Quilting, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive,

u At o Y ee

AM

What is believed to be the same eagle as was featured on Page 1 in the Feb. 15 edition of The Sun grasps a speckled trout in its talons as it rests in a tree by Westbay Cove in Holmes Beach. Sun reader Margaret Kelley says the eagle landed at Westbay several times with its dinner in tow, but was chased away by some resident ospreys.

Holmes Beach, 10 a.m.

Investment Opportunities in a Changing World with UBS Financial Services Inc., Aging in Paradise Resource Center, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, second floor, 10 a.m. to noon. Reserve to maryannbrady@aginginparadise.org or 941-383-6493.

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

Irish Ceili and set dancing, Sandpiper Mobile Resort, 2601 Gulf Drive, Bradenton Beach, 1 to 3 p.m. Collection taken for musicians.

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

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

Movie, “Boys of ‘36,” Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2 p.m.

MARGARET KELLEY | SUBMITTED

Come see why we were voted the #

Wednesday ~ February 22nd

OB !

1 New ant

Restaur A Little Salt…

A Little Lime…

A Lotta FUN! The Only Thing Better Than A Margarita Is A PITCHER Of Margaritas!

Margarita Pitchers *Ages 21+ only. 2/22/17 only.

Breakfast Served Daily! 8 –11am Present this coupon when you purchase one breakfast entrée at regular price and receive a second

CODE

2

FREE!

*Limited to 1 guest, 1 visit, 1 use.

Expires March 31, 2017.

With this coupon.

Pier location only.

*

PIER s 941.778.AMOB (2662) s 200 Bridge Street (Historic Bridge Street Pier)

www.amisun.com

FEBRUARY 22, 2017

THE SUN

9

Holmes Beach residents protest boat canopy installation Residents demand boat lift canopies be removed in Holmes Beach.

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

HOLMES BEACH — Boat canopies have gone up over two private boat lifts at the public boat ramp on Marina Way and neighboring residents are not happy.

City commissioners approved the installation of two boat canopies over the boat lifts installed at the ramp for use by West Manatee Fire Rescue and the city's police department back in the fall of 2016. At the time, city attorney Patricia Petruff determined the canopies would not detract from the view of neighboring properties, particularly the residences at Westbay Point & Moorings condominiums located immediately to the north

Kristin Swain | Sun

The tops of two boat canopies at the public boat ramp on Marina Way are clearly visible over the tops of cut mangroves Feb. 15 from the neighboring Westbay Point & Moorings Condominiums. The canopies cover two boat lifts used by the Holmes Beach Police Department and West Manatee Fire Rescue. of the boat ramp.

While residents were assured at the time of installation their views wouldn’t be affected, now that the mangroves shielding the boat

lifts and canopies from the property have been trimmed, the structures are causing a problem.

More than half a dozen neighboring residents attend-

ed the Feb. 14 city commission meeting to express their displeasure at having their water views of Watson's Bayou disrupted.

Robert McGlynn, president

of the West Bay Point & Moorings Condominium Association, cited several issues to commissioners, including loss of property value and rental income, ruined views and lack of communication from the city.

“We have a right to an unobstructed view,” McGlynn said.

“The view from two buildings is obstructed.”

He asked commissioners to reconsider and remove the canopies.

Condominium resident Robyn Kinkopf also stepped forward during public comment to address the issue.

“I do believe you made a mistake,” she said.

“I do think it has a direct effect on your views,” Chair Judy Titsworth agreed.

The discussion was moved to the March 2 work session agenda.

10

www.amisun.com

THE SUN

FEBRUARY 22, 2017

It’s the time of your life.

Make it Island Time.

Waterfront Living on Florida’s Last Private Island From the high $400’s

Island Coach Home

Ahh…island time. The freedom of days set to the rhythm of the tides, the roll of the sun, and pure whimsy. Like time spent on Harbour Isle, a private island paradise where you can catch dinner on a morning kayak and the sunset from our private Beach Club overlooking Anna Maria Sound. The locals call it “Florida’s Best Kept Secret.” And you’re about to get in on it. Come take the tour, and pick up the keys to Florida’s last private island. Don’t miss your chance for the best views and pricing at Harbour Isle! 5 minutes to world-famous Anna Maria Island beaches.

One incredible community. Two great ways to live it!

ISLAND COACH HOMES Back by popular demand. New neighborhood, final phase!

WATERFRONT CONDOMINIUMS Rental income opportunity!

Waterfront Condos

TOUR 6 NEW MODELS

and Award Winning Beach Club

12300 Manatee Ave. West, Bradenton, FL 34209

Located on SR-64 West, just before the Anna Maria Island Bridge

Ask about our incredible incentives!*

(877) 542-0822 | mintofla.com

To learn more about our award-winning communities throughout Florida, visit mintofla.com. *Please see a New Homes Sale Professional for details. For correct representations, make reference to this advertisement and to the documents required by section 718.503, Florida statutes, to be furnished by a seller to a buyer or lessee. © Minto Communities, LLC 2017. Not an offer where prohibited by state statutes. All rights reserved. Content may not be reproduced, copied, altered, distributed, stored or transferred in any form or by any means without express written permission. Artist’s renderings, dimensions, specifications, prices and features are approximate and subject to change without notice. Minto, the Minto logo, Harbour Isle and the Harbour Isle logo are trademarks of Minto Communities, LLC and/or its affiliates. CGC 1519880. 2/2017

FEBRUARY 22, 2017

www.amisun.com

THE SUN

11

BeallsFlorida.com INTRODUCING

Exclusively at

Inspired by a love for Florida, Art & Sol™ is a brand that celebrates the Sunshine State through beautiful works of art.

Working with artists inspired by destinations, sea life, fun icons and color, this one-of-a-kind art has been applied to a mix of colorful clothing, accessories and home furnishings.

A longtime resident of South Florida, Ellen Negley feels a deep connection to her tropical surroundings and draws inspiration from the rich and colorful palette off Florida. Ellen conveys her vision by exploring the impact of color and composition. Her motto is “I see color with my eyes, but paint with my heart and soul.”

10

$

OFF

a $50 or more purchase

Use promo code COLORFUL on BeallsFlorida.com

WEDNESDAY-TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 22-28, 2017

SHOP SAVINGS THROUGHOUT THE STORE & AT BEALLSFLORIDA.COM Go to BeallsFlorida.com for hours, locations and the latest deals!

Bealls stores & BeallsFlorida.com are operated by Beall’s Department Stores, Inc. and Beall’s Westgate Corporation.

Coupon valid for one time use on a qualifying merchandise purchase in Bealls Department Stores, by phone at 800-569-9038, on Click & Find kiosks and on BeallsFlorida.com only. Coupon must be presented & surrendered at time of purchase. Limit one (1) coupon per purchase.

Cannot be applied to prior purchases, gift card purchases, existing Bealls Florida credit balances, taxes, or shipping charges and cannot be used with Employee Discount or any other offer. Dollar-off discounts will be applied before any percent-off total purchase discounts. Coupon is applied to qualifying items on a prorated basis; returns will be credited at the return price on your receipt. EXCLUSIONS: Cobian®, Columbia, Gumbies®, Huk™, La Blanca®, Levi’s®, Melissa & Doug®, Natural Life®, Night Ize®, Nike®, Pelagic®, Sakroots®, Sawyer®, Simply Southern®, Southern Fried Cotton™, Under Armour®, select premium comfort shoe brands, Bealls Outstanding Buys, Bealls Extreme Values and other brands listed at BeallsFlorida.com/exclusions.

Not valid at Bealls Outlet. Bealls stores & BeallsFlorida.com are operated by Beall’s Department Stores, Inc. and Beall’s Westgate Corporation. CP01

10 bealls buck$

GET $

FOR EVERY $50 YOU SPEND

Receive $10 Bealls Bucks (February 22-March 2, 2017) when you make a qualifying merchandise purchase of $50 or more (before taxes) in Bealls Department Stores only. Maximum of $120 Bealls Bucks awarded per customer. Bealls Bucks have no cash value and can be redeemed in-store (March 3 & 4, 2017) only at Bealls Department Stores. Bealls Bucks must be presented and surrendered at time of purchase; any remaining balance will be forfeited. Bealls Bucks cannot be earned on purchases of gift cards or applied to prior purchases, gift cards, taxes or existing Bealls Florida credit balances. Bealls Bucks will be applied before any percent off total purchase discounts. Offer cannot be earned or combined with Employee discount. OP12

12

www.amisun.com

THE SUN

submitted

Counterfeit bill shown

For the second time this season, a counterfeit bill has been shown, but this second bill was never used.

According to employees at Cupcake Delights, a customer came into the shop at 3324 East Bay Drive and tried to use a $20 bill. When the cashier used the special ink, it showed the bill was fake. The customer reportedly took the bill back and walked out of the store.

Cupcake Delights owner Judy Owens said the subject asked how he could get his $20 for the bogus bill and she said he was out of luck.

Holmes Beach Police Detective Lt. Brian Hall released a security photo of the subject showing the top of his head.

Recently a fake $10 bill was shown, at Paradise Boat Tours in Bradenton Beach. That time, the business accepted it and the business owner was out of luck.

Police are asking for help in identifying the subject. Call 942-708-5804 and ask for Detective Hall.

FEBRUARY 22, 2017

www.amisun.com

FEBRUARY 22, 2017

THE SUN

13

Coast Guard seeks input on bridge openings

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

Elected officials who have been talking about improving traffic flow got good news recently when the U.S. Coast Guard agreed to consider changing the times the drawbridges open to let boats pass from three to two times per hour.

The notice was published in the Federal Register, and if enough people ask for the change, they will stand a good chance of getting their way.

Drawbridges have been a bane to motorists, especially when the open for boats during rush hour. It backs up traffic from the Cortez Bridge south toward Longboat Key. The proposed changes would apply to the Anna Maria Island Bridge, the Cortez Bridge, Stickney Point Bridge and the Siesta Drive Bridge.

The request for change came through the Manatee/Sarasota Metropolitan

Planning Agency and local mayors of cities on the barrier islands.

Bradenton Beach Mayor Bill Shearon warned members of the Barrier Island Elected Officials meeting that those wanting the change should make themselves heard.

“Boaters have a strong presence in Florida, and they are likely to be against any rule that makes them wait for a raised drawbridge more,” he said, “so you’d better make yourself heard.”

Those wanting to make comments on the changes have until April 24 to respond. To comment, use the docket number; USCG-2016-0330 and the Federal eRulemaking Portal at http://www. regulations.gov. Look for the Public Participation and Request for Comments section of the Supplementary Information section.

If you have questions about the proposed rule change, call or email Lt. Ashley Holm in St. Petersburg at 813-228-2191, ext. 8105, or Ashley.E.Holm@uscg.mil.

file photo

Traffic is backed up on the Cortez Bridge waiting for boats to pass through the open span.

CINDY LANE | SUN

Sun photo exhibit at library “Postcards from the Sun,” an exhibit featuring photographs by Cindy Lane published in The Anna Maria Island Sun, will be featured at the Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive in Holmes Beach, March 1-31. The library is open Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Wednesdays from noon to 8 p.m. For more information, call 941-778-6341.

WHEN YOU THINK FANS, THINK DAN'S!

DAN'S FAN CITY LARGEST SELECTION OF INDOOR & OUTDOOR FANS ANYWHERE! TORNADO

DESIGN

MARINE GRADE S316 STAINLESS STEEL

YOUR FAN

ASK US HOW

OR SEE OUR

RAINDANCE

Direct Water Contact 30 Year Warranty 45 Stores Nationwide Parts, Services & Open 7 Days A Week Installation Available Locally Owned and Operated · Fan Experts For Over 35 Years

Bradenton

1808 Cortez Road

755-3262

14

THE SUN

BUSINESS

FEBRUARY 22, 2017

A bit of France on the beach

BY LOUISE BOLGER

FRENCH TABLE

SUN STAFF WRITER

What do southern Florida and the south of France have in common? They both border magnificent bodies of water, they both have temperate weather and they both have great food. Now some of the great food from the south of France bordering the Mediterranean Sea is available right across the street from the Gulf of Mexico.

Last summer Marieke and Christophe Celis sold their home in France, packed up their three daughters and moved to Florida. After years of working as a chef, Christophe was ready for his own bistro, and after 10 years of visiting Anna Maria the family was ready for a move. Everyone was on board when Marieke found an on-line advertisement for a French restaurant for sale in Bradenton Beach. A week later they were on a plane headed for the Island and their new adventure.

The Celis became the new owners of the French Table on July 1, and were off to a good start, until Hurricane Hermine blew in on Sept. 1 and flooded the restaurant. It was three months before they could reopen, but it did give them the opportunity to redecorate, installing new floors and adding their own personal touches to the restaurant.

They were able to reopen just in time for the winter season and have been busy every day since.

The French Table’s menu is traditional southern French country cooking.

Christophe bakes his own bread every day, and most days there is a special entree. Other entrees include mussels in crème fraiche, sautéed shrimp flambees, grouper mangue, sautéed duck breast, beef in red wine and a French

103 Gulf Drive North Bradenton Beach 941-779-1930 www.frenchtableami.com Tuesday – Saturday: 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Closed Sunday and Monday All major credit cards accepted

LOUISE BOLGER | SUN

Christophe and Marieke Celis invite guests to experience a taste of France. favorite, cassoulet.

Appetizers include grilled mussels, French onion soup, ceviche, salads and pancake with smoked salmon and shrimp. You can, of course, finish with

desserts like crème brulee, flan and chocolat mousse. The Celis also are very proud of the expanded wine list with a large selection of French wines, and they also offer a variety of beer.

Every dish is homemade with fresh ingredients bought daily.

Marieke is there every day serving their patrons, and you will frequently find one of their three daughters helping out. The couple's moms even help out when they’re visiting, adding to the warm relaxed feel of the intimate bistro.

Although the French Table is not open for lunch, the Celis will accommodate private parties of at least 20 for a luncheon. Wedding parties, baby and wedding showers, birthday gatherings or just a nice get together of friends are always welcome.

When you step in you will immediately feel at home and be transported from the Gulf of Mexico to the Mediterranean Sea. Marieke and Christophe Celis want everyone to know the French Table is still open and is still a little bit of France on the beach, with authentic food and some French music thrown in for flavor.

www.amisun.com

FEBRUARY 22, 2017

THE SUN

15

C oncert Series 2017

EnnCeisltic&muCsicrfroamig

bring us traditional to Celtic rock, ctric from fiddle to flute to ele songs guitar and drums, from n’t to jigs and reels. If you do u yo , e tim have a great

jjust must HATE fun!

The Wyndbreakers Duo

SUNDAY, FEB 26 • 4:00 PM On Anna Maria Island!

DOORS OPEN AT 3:00

FREE-WILL OFFERING www.RoserChurch.com/Concert-Series

MARK YOUR CALENDAR: APRIL 23 Ring Sarasota

A NON DENOMINATIONAL CHRISTIAN COMMUNITY COMMUNITY CHURCH • 512 Pine Ave, Anna Maria [near Pier]

SUNDAY WORSHIP • 8:30 AM and 10:00 AM in the Sanctuary Adult Bible Study 8:45 AM • Book Study 9:00 AM • Nursery & Church School 10:00 AM

Pancake Breakfast • SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 25 • 8:00 to 11:00 AM 941-778-0414 • www.RoserChurch.com • www.facebook.com/RoserChurch

TOM VAUGHT | SUN

Shopping spree The shoppers were ready when the Episcopal Church of the Annunciation opened its doors for the annual White Elephant Sale on Saturday, Feb.18. The homemade pickles went quickly, and some vacationers stocked up on them to take home.

16

www.amisun.com

THE SUN

Holmes Beach begins lobbyist search Holmes Beach city commissioners are sending a lobbyist to Tallahassee to fight to keep the vacation rental certificate program alive.

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

HOLMES BEACH — City commissioners are ready to join those in Anna Maria by sending a legislative lobbyist to Tallahassee to represent the city’s interests.

Commissioners agreed during a Feb. 16 special meeting to instruct Mayor Bob Johnson to begin the process of selecting a candidate from a list of recommended lobbyists provided by city attorney Patricia Petruff. The commission set an initial not to exceed amount of $25,000 for the remaining duration of the Florida state legislative session.

Johnson agreed to begin the vetting process and bring a recommendation back to commissioners at an upcoming meeting.

Once engaged, the lobbyist will be expected to oppose two proposed bills on the city’s behalf. One is Senate Bill 188 which would prevent local governments from imposing regulations on vacation rentals. The bill was filed by Sen. Gregg Steube. “If that bill passes, we might as well all go home,� Commissioner Jean Peelen said. “The city as a city will be pretty much done. For me, it’s desperate times need desperate measures.�

Petruff said, if the bill is passed, it will revoke the city’s newly enacted vacation rental certificate program.

The VRC requires all short term rentals to be registered with the city and inspected by code enforcement. “If it happens, I don’t think it will be the death of us,� Chair Judy Titsworth said. “I don’t think I’ll have to move to Utah, but it will impact our vacation rental certificate.�

The other is House Bill 425, championed by Rep. Mike La Rosa, which, see lobbyist, page 18

ServiceClub 52nd Annual Charity Celebra ng our 90th Year!

C

A NTIQUES , Vintage & C OLLECTIBLES M ARKET BRADENTON AREA CONVENTION CENTER, ONE HABEN BLVD, PALMETTO, FL 34221

FEBRUARY 24, 25 & 26, 2017 Friday, February 24, 2017

5:30 pm – 9:00 pm Hors d'oeuvres & Food Stations catered by Pier 22

Full Cash Bar Available - Complimentary Valet Parking OPENING NIGHT SOIRÉE & SILENT AUCTION Tickets: $50 in Advance/ $60 at the Door (valid all weekend)

FEBRUARY 22, 2017

Bert Harris returns to Holmes Beach More Bert Harris claims roll into Holmes Beach.

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

HOLMES BEACH — Bert Harris has returned, bringing four new claims from property owners.

Claims were received Feb. 14 at city hall concerning properties at 302 65th St., 303 61st St. Unit A, 303 61st St. Unit B and 401 75th St. Thomas and Katherine Hayes, through attorney Scott Rudacille, submitted a claim for 302 65th St., Holmes Beach, requesting $225,000 in compensation or the ability to maintain a 12 person occupancy for the vacation rental.

Under the city’s current ordinances, the five-bedroom property has a maximum 10-person occupancy or two per bedroom.

Rudacille also is representing Christian and Felicia Tyler, owners of 401 75th St., Holmes Beach. The letter submitted to city hall claims the four-bedroom property is regularly

advertised for parties of 14 though the city’s occupancy requirements restricts it to eight people. The property owners requested the ability to continue renting the property for up to 14 people or $310,000 in compensation for lost property value.

Attorney Kevin Hennessy submitted a letter on behalf of Steven Sheline, owner of 303 61st St., requesting a permanent occupancy of 14 people plus additional small children for the four-bedroom property or $240,000 in compensation.

Hennessy submitted a similar letter on behalf of Tugboat Properties, LLC, owner of 303 61st St. Unit A, requesting an allowance to maintain a 14-person plus small children occupancy at the four-bedroom property or $240,000 in compensation for lost property value.

The Bert Harris Jr. Act allows property owners who are inordinately burdened by local regulations or ordinances to apply for relief or monetary compensation. see bert harris, page 19

SNOWBIRD SPECIAL October 1st - April 30th

Monthly Membership Adult $50 Seniors $35 Youth $19 Family $99

To just play Pickleball or Tennis for a month as a non-member cost is only $35!

• Unlimited group Fitness Classes • Discounts on Specialty Classes • Tennis and Pickleball • Fitness Center with Stretching, Balance, and Strength Center

Saturday, February 25, 2017 • 10 am-5 pm Sunday, February 26, 2017 • 11 am-4 pm

Admission $7 ♌ Valid for reentry both days ♌ Free Parking A P

B L C ’ CÂ

For more info go to www.manateeserviceclub.com or call 941-779-3470

For more information contact The Center at (941)778-1908 or info@ centerami.com *Must provide proof of residency or

lease agreement for 30 days or more

407 Magnolia Ave Anna Maria, Florida 34216 www.centerami.org

FEBRUARY 22, 2017

www.amisun.com

THE SUN

17

18

www.amisun.com

THE SUN

FEBRUARY 22, 2017

lobbyist: Search begins FROM PAGE 16

similar to SB 188, would prevent local governments from adopting laws, ordinances and regulations of vacation rentals, leaving their oversight to the state government.

During the Feb. 15 Coalition of Barrier Island Elected Officials meeting, Anna Maria Mayor Dan Murphy said a report from his city’s lobbyist counted 10 lobbyists working in favor of the two bills and two working against them.

Peelen said she’d like to send a lobbyist on behalf of the city to help level the playing field.

“Other cities may be coming in too,” Commissioner Carol Soustek said.

“We may end up with a small army up there.”

Johnson encouraged commissioners, residents and visitors to explore the information available on the Anna Maria city website, www.cityofannamaria. com, where information on the two

If that bill passes, we might as well all go home.”

Jean Peelen Commissioner bills along with contact information for state representatives and senators is available. Murphy said he would make sure the site was updated regularly as reports come in from the state capitol.

“I encourage everyone to go the site and tell your friends to go to that site,” he said.

Sicilian Octopus Stew

I’m an Original “

Food has always been my passion, and to me Ortygia is a magical place.

What makes Ortygia an Original is that I serve Sicilian French cuisine using the products of local growers and retailers.

I enjoy witnessing my customers delight in dishes they never imagined would be even remotely Sicilian. I invite you to come experience my dream come true!

”

Gaetano “Guy” Cannata, chef/owner, Ortygia

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

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

FEBRUARY 22, 2017

www.amisun.com

THE SUN

19

Kristin Swain | Sun

Recovery honors From left: Holmes Beach Mayor Bob Johnson presents Holmes Beach Police Chief Bill Tokajer with a letter of thanks from Gov. Rick Scott on Feb. 14 in recognition of his recovery efforts following Hurricanes Matthew and Hermine in 2016. Other honorees recognized during the commission meeting were HBPD Det. Brian Hall and Cathy Pizzo.

bert harris: Brings new claims FROM PAGE 16

The four new claims arrived the same day city leaders voted unanimously to send response letters to three other Bert Harris claims lodged with the city.

City Attorney Patricia Petruff presented commissioners with the letters during a Feb. 14 meeting. The letters, similar to others already posted by the city in response to claims, state no changes are being contemplated by

commissioners to any ordinances listed in the claims, primarily occupancy regulations which restrict vacation rentals to two people per bedroom or six total, whichever is larger. The restriction extends to small children and infants.

The total amount of Bert Harris claims in Holmes Beach has risen to 24 since the city’s vacation rental ordinance was adopted in 2016. Two claims have progressed to pending court cases.

20

THE SUN

www.amisun.com

FEBRUARY 22, 2017

Chef-crafted … authentic … with integrity

ZAGAT “Top Restaurants in America”

941-778-6444 www.BeachBistro.com

Crafted Cocktails

941-213-9926

www.DoctorsOfficeAMI.com

Florida Trend “Best New” Restaurant

941-778-0411 www.eathereflorida.com

www.amisun.com

FEBRUARY 22, 2017

THE SUN

21

Tipping and motivation

BY SEAN MURPHY SPECIAL TO THE SUN

I

first learned about tipping from my Uncle George.

Uncle George loved to poke social conformities in the eye.

He converted his suburban home to a farm by covering it with truckloads of horse poop.

In case any of the neighbors did not know what the trucks were dumping he put a load on the sidewalk so they had to walk around it.

Uncle George made me a “partner” in the farm.

I was to get half the crop.

I was five.

The partner thing was an end run on my mom who could stop me working for George, but not if I was a partner.

I loved working with my Uncle George.

I worked mostly weekends. Sunday evening was a tragic time for me.

I was always saddened by the long drive

back home in the waning light to a house filled with a bunch of screaming little Irish siblings.

As I got out of the car, George would slip me a couple of bucks.

A couple of bucks then was like a 50 now. With a buck you could fill a paper bag the size of your head with penny candy.

I would argue with him, “I can’t take pay. I’m a partner. I’m getting half of the crop.”

George would say, “It’s not pay.

It’s a tip. It’s extra because you worked hard.”

And that is what tipping is.

And that is how tipping works.

It’s an extra

that gets people to work a little harder.

I worked my way through law school slinging beer in a tavern.

The beer was 55 cents. The patron was supposed to tip a nickel a beer – and if he didn’t, then the waiter was allowed to cut him off.

When you cut them off, they would try to trip you when you passed between the tables.

It was like one of those old Fred Astaire dancing movies, only the full-to-overflowing beer glasses weren’t glued to the tray.

I learned how fast I could move for a nickel.

I learned more about the efficacy of tipping while working as a rookie waiter at Arnaud’s

in New Orleans. I was an illegal alien at the time, so the law degree was not very useful.

I could wait tables or pick tomatoes. Waiting tables was air-conditioned.

When a good tipper entered the restaurant, the seas parted to find him a table.

He not only got better and more gracious service, but often lagniappe as well -– an extra oyster or a better cut of beef.

And the better the tipper the faster the service. The New Orleans work reinforced the value of a nickel – only it was a nickel of percentages.

I was being trained by a veteran waiter who was asked by one of his patrons, “Waiter can you tell me what 15 percent of this bill is just off the top of your head?”

He answered, "No sir, but I could tell you 20 percent.”

Tipping has a magnificent virtue – it works. People really do work a little harder if they believe they will be rewarded for the effort.

I wish we could use tipping more. If we tipped government workers maybe the government would work better. Their political bosses are being tipped by interest groups and corporations. Maybe we should make them share it around.

florida’s ““best florida’s best nnew ew restaurant” restaurant” 5315 gulf 5315 gulf lf d drive rive

941-778-0411 941-778-0411

online o online ordering rdering – –> >e eathereflorida.com athereflorida.com

22

www.amisun.com

THE SUN

joe hendricks | SUN

Assisted by City Clerk LeAnne Addy, Mayor Dan Murphy opens the bids received in response to the RFP issued for the rehabilitation of the Anna Maria City Pier.

Pier proposals opened Mayor Dan Murphy hopes to make his recommendation this week.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA – On Valentine’s Day, Mayor Dan Murphy opened the three proposals received from firms interested in rehabilitating the Anna Maria City Pier, only to discover that none of them included cost estimates.

Joined by City Clerk LeAnne Addy and Deputy Clerk Debbie Haynes, the mayor was among those surprised that the proposals did not include projected prices.

“We’ll go through these things with a fine tooth comb to see what we come up with,” Murphy said after he quickly browsed through the three proposals.

It was later determined that the firms based their proposals on state statute 287.055, also known as the Consultants’ Competitive Negotiation Act (CCNA).

The CCNA states that contract negotiations are to take place after the most qualified firm has been determined. If acceptable financial terms cannot be reached with the firm deemed most qualified, those negotiations are to be terminated and negotiations are to begin with the firm deemed to be the second most qualified.

Murphy, a former Verizon executive, said later in the week, “This is not what I’m used to from a business background, but this how business is to be conducted from a municipality point of view, and we are following the letter of the law.

"I am reviewing the proposals and ranking them based on the criteria outlined in the RFP itself and the four qualities that have points assigned to them,” he added.

The request for proposals (RFP) issued by the city cited a 100-point scoring system for the evaluation of the responding firms. The firm’s past performance and experience is worth up to 30 points, and the past performance and experience of the individual or project team is worth up to 25 points.

The ability of the professional personnel is worth up to 25 points and the firm’s approach to the project is worth up to 20 points.

The RFP did not contain language that specifically requested a cost estimate. It did however state that the city reserves the right to request additional information and the right to determine if the responses are adequate and complete.

Murphy said he would seek additional insight from staff, but the final decision would be made by the mayor and city commission. He hopes to present his bid rankings to the commission at the Feb. 23 meeting.

“I’m going to choose a vendor, come back to the commission, seek permission to negotiate with that vendor. If I’m given that permission, I will begin negotiations and at that time we’ll discuss price,” he said.

Proposals were submitted by Wantman Group Inc. (WGI), Taylor Engineering and the McLaren Engineering Group.

WGI’s corporate office is in West Palm Beach and it's proposal indicated an affiliation with CB&I Engineering and Construction, the firm that subcontracted Bridge Design Associates to conduct the original structural assessment of the pier in late 2015 and early 2016.

Taylor Engineering is headquartered in Jacksonville and has an office in see PIER, page 23

FEBRUARY 22, 2017

www.amisun.com

FEBRUARY 22, 2017

THE SUN

23

PIER: Proposals opened FROM PAGE 22

Sarasota. It's proposal indicated a working relationship with Sweet Sparkman Architects in Sarasota.

McLaren Engineering Group is headquartered in West Nyack, N.Y. and has an office in Orlando.

It's proposal mentioned partnerships with two other vendors.

None of the firms sent repre-

sentatives to the proposal opening and City Commissioner Dale Woodland was the only commissioner on hand.

County officials have tentatively offered $1 million in matching resort tax funds for the estimated $2 million project. The county funding would apply only to the public pier and not to the commercially-operated restaurant and

bait sales spaces at the end of the pier.

The proposals received last week did not incorporate the commercial structures, and Murphy said those would be approached as a separate but congruent project that will require additional funding.

24

THE SUN

www.amisun.com

FEBRUARY 22, 2017

Cortez Fishing Festival celebrates 35 years FROM PAGE 1

tez Road to the north and mangrove-fringed Sarasota Bay to the south, serving as a buffer between the historic fishing village of Cortez and development to the east.

The preserve and the 35th anniversary of the festival were only two of the things FISH celebrated this year.

Festival volunteers Peg Miller, Sam Valeris and the Cortez Park crew were honored with awards, along with Capt. Soupy Davis, 90, for his contributions to the fishing industry and his fiddle playing at the Florida Maritime Museum’s monthly Music on the Porch jam sessions.

The pioneer award was presented to the unofficial matriarch of Cortez, Mary Francis Fulford Green, 92.

The granddaughter of Cortez pioneer Capt. Billy Fulford, she graduated from Bradenton High School in 1942 as valedictorian.

She attended the Florida State College for Women (later Florida State University) in Tallahassee, earning a doctorate in education.

A great-grandmother, founder of Hope Family Services and longtime community activist, “She has done everything in her power as a mother would to protect what she sees as her special child – this village,” FISH board member Jane von Hahmann said in presenting the award.

cindy lane | SUN

The Manatee River BlueGrass band entertained diners enjoying the seafood smorgasbord on Saturday.

cindy lane | SUN

Ailen Garcia Gorrita created a painting at the festival on Saturday.

cindy lane | SUN

cindy lane | SUN

Crowds packed the food court on the first day of the 35th Annual Cortez Commercial Fishing Festival Saturday, undeterred by a sudden, drenching squall.

Above, recycled and new crab and lobster trap rope mats by 30 Fathom, of Matlacha Island, Fla. were among the arts and crafts on display at the 35th Annual Cortez Commercial Fishing Festival Saturday and Sunday.

About 30 fathoms, or 180 feet, of rope goes into each mat. Left, festivalgoers admire Rich Fizer’s hand-blown glass fish, one of the nautical themed arts and crafts displays at the festival.

FEBRUARY 22, 2017

FOOD & WINE

THE SUN

25

Gulf shrimp is the star

Adam Ellis

B

BLUE MARLIN SEAFOOD

lue Marlin Seafood will only serve shrimp that have been caught in the Gulf of Mexico. We make a great effort to get the most coveted shrimp, the pink ones from Key West. Key West pink shrimp have always had the reputation for being the sweetest and cleanest of all the shrimp in the sea. Most of the time we have these tender crustaceans on our plates.

If the boat is late or fishing is slow, we search out the next best thing, which would be white Gulf shrimp from the northern Gulf of Mexico. There are many different species of shrimp that come from our local waters, so there are always plenty of options at the fish house.

If you have the chance to sample the Gulf rock shrimp, which are caught by a local boat from A.P. Bell, don't hesitate!

These are going to remind you of the best lobster you ever had. Rock shrimp only come around a few times a year, so eat them up if you are lucky enough get your hands on a box. The boats at AP Bell also make runs to the Keys to harvest pink shrimp, so we even get to have fresh shrimp delivered to our docks.

If you spend some time and ask the right questions (like Sean Murphy said in the Feb. 1 edition of The Sun), you will have the fresh local bounty that is in our back yard. When you get back to the kitchen with your little local box of treasure, think about a simple way to compliment and enhance these gems of the sea.

It only takes a few ingredient to accom-

Shrimp Ajillo Ingredients: 1/3 lb to 1/2 lb shrimp per person 2 or 10 cloves garlic, sliced 3 limes Pinch of chili flakes 2 Tbs. per person of extra virgin olive oil 1/2 c. arugula  This dish is all about timing. The shrimp cook fast, and the garlic can burn easily, so this dish goes very quickly. Heat a saute pan on medium high until relatively hot.

Add olive oil and garlic. The garlic should end up with a golden toast, so it takes on a nutty flavor. This is key to this dish, so don't over cook the garlic. Shortly after the garlic is added (about a minute), add the shrimp, and don't touch it until you start to smell the garlic. Toss and add chili flakes (I use a heavy hand with the chilis). As soon as you add the lime, the garlic will stop toasting, so wait until the garlic is golden, then add the juice of two limes. It will reduce a bit.

At this point, the shrimp are done. I like to pour this over a handful of arugula. Cut the additional lime in half for a fresh hint of lime. A nice hunk of ciabatta will make this a happy dish too. Enjoy or come to Bridge Street, and we will make it for you.

plish an exciting dish. The Spanish have always had the brilliance of using just a few really great ingredients in their dishes. Shrimp ajillo is at the top of this list of tasty creations. Garlic, lime, extra virgin olive oil, chili flakes, and, of course, those Key West pinks, are all you need.

submitted

Shrimp ajillo is served with ciabatta and arugula.

26

THE SUN

OUTDOORS

FEBRUARY 22, 2017

Catching pompano

Captain Dave White

Pompano have been in our sights here at Anna Maria Charters this past week. These gold nuggets are not only a solid fight on light tackle, but also a delicate fish great for the dinner table.

I'm hunting for these fish in the passes, along the beaches and in the deeper areas of the flats. Often, running from place to place, I'll keep a wary eye out the back of the vessel to look for them launching from the water when spooked by the prop wash.

Once you find one fish, you're sure to find more, as they're typically in a good sized school.

The typical method for catching these guys is a Doc's Goofy Jig tipped with a piece of shrimp. Although methods include sand fleas and shrimp with a wight on the bottom.

Sheepshead are still extremely prevalent all over the place right now. I'm having success on both these inshore species and welcome them during our wintertime patterns.

Captain larry mcguire | submitted

Fire trucks running hot

Captain Rick Grassett

Anglers fishing with me, out of CB's Saltwater see captains, page 27

captain DAVE WHITE | SUbmitted

Grant Harper, Mike Schamens and Brandt Sjuts with pompano and a nice tripletail caught on Anna Maria Charters.

Jeremiah K., from Tucson, Ariz., with his limit of fire truck red grouper. The party was fishing offshore of Anna Maria Island in about 130 feet using sardines. They also caught more grouper, snapper and shark. Be ready to head on out in the Gulf in between the cold fronts and be rewarded with a very calm day, and you may hit a pot of gold of grouper and snapper like this.

www.amisun.com

FEBRUARY 22, 2017

THE SUN

27

captains: Catching and releasing snook FROM PAGE 1

Outfitters on Siesta Key, caught and released snook at night in the ICW near Venice and trout and blues in Sarasota Bay on flies and CAL jigs with shad tails and jerk worms during the past week.

The best action was catch and release snook fishing in the ICW at night.

Gary Marple, from Sarasota, fished Sarasota Bay with me on Tuesday. He had some action catching and releasing trout on an Ultra Hair Clouser fly while fishing deep grass flats on the west side of the bay. Marshall Dinerman, from Atlanta, Ga., and Edwin Rothberg, from North Carolina, fished the same areas with me on Wednesday. They had good action with trout and several blues on CAL jigs with shad tails.

Martin Marlowe, from New York, fished dock lights in the ICW near Venice with me on Thursday night. He had steady action catching and releasing snook on my Grassett Snook Minnow fly.

Fish in shallow water have been very spooky due to clear water and calm conditions making them tough to catch, although you should find snook, larger

captain rick grassett | SUbmitted

Martin Marlowe, from New York, with a snook caught and released on a Grassett Snook Minnow fly while fishing dock lights on the ICW at night with Capt. Rick Grassett. trout and reds there when conditions are with flies and DOA Lures should also good. Wading with a fly rod or making be a good option. Trout, blues, Spanish long casts with spinning tackle are good mackerel, pompano and more should tactics for fishing shallow water. Catch be good options on deep grass flats of and release night snook fishing around Sarasota Bay. lighted docks and bridges in the ICW

Live like a local Respect Wildlife Please don’t feed us!

We might chase a fish on your line and swallow a hook.

Dolphin Anna Maria Island Sun • Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring

28

www.amisun.com

THE SUN

Balloon release concerns Turtle Watch

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

BRADENTON BEACH – Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring was notified through an anonymous tip that on Friday, Feb. 10, at sunset, about 50 people walked out of a restaurant and released “dozens of green and yellow balloons over the sea.”

Other callers reported to Turtle Watch Director Suzi Fox that the balloons were delivered to the restaurant around 4:30 p.m. that night in a minivan, she said.

Fox said she is asking city officials to remind business owners that they should not allow balloon releases from their business.

Florida Statute 379.233 makes it unlawful to intentionally release 10 or

more balloons in 24 hours; violators can incur a $250 fine. The law calls balloons “a danger and nuisance to the environment, particularly to wildlife and marine animals.”

Exceptions exist for hot air balloons, balloons released by a governmental agency, balloons released indoors and biodegradable balloons, as determined by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.

A 2014 attempt to increase the number to 100 balloons failed.

Studies have shown that sea turtles eat plastic, mistaking it for jellyfish, and often die from it.

If anyone finds a sea turtle, bird or other wildlife that was injured by the balloons, call Wildlife Education and Rehabilitation at 941-778-6324.

Paid parking returns Anna Maria’s ordinances do not prohibit paid parking.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA – The Sandbar restaurant in Anna Maria has reinstated a paid parking program that was introduced last year.

Last weekend, a sandwich sign advertising $20 paid parking appeared at the corner of Gulf Drive and Magnolia Avenue. According to Chiles Group owner and founder Ed Chiles, the paid parking program was reinstated to provide better control of the parking lot used by Sandbar customers.

Via text message, Chiles said those who pay to park will receive a $20 credit that is good that day at the Sandbar, the BeachHouse restaurant in Bradenton Beach or the Mar Vista restaurant in Longboat Key. Chiles said the paid parking program also will be used at the BeachHouse restaurant, but not at Mar Vista, where parking control is less of a concern.

The Chiles Group’s paid parking programs will be primarily utilized during weekends, holidays, special events and other peak periods.

There is nothing in the city of Anna Maria’s code of ordinances that prohibits paid parking, but according to Sec. 98-7, A-shaped sandwich signs are prohibited. Last week, City Commissioner Nancy Yetter and Mayor Dan Murphy exchanged e-mails that pertained to Yetter’s concerns about sandwich signs along Pine Avenue.

submitted

This A-shaped paid parking sign spotted Saturday afternoon was removed on Monday because city ordinance prohibits sandwich signs On Monday, Yetter said Code Enforcement Manager Pam Gibbs informed her that she had asked the Sandbar to remove the non-compliant sandwich sign. As of Monday afternoon, the sandwich sign was no longer in place.

FEBRUARY 22, 2017

www.amisun.com

FEBRUARY 22, 2017

THE SUN

29

Manatee survey up from 2016 SUN STAFF WRITER | clane@amisun.com

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) counted 6,620 manatees in Florida waters in aerial and ground surveys conducted Jan. 30-Feb. 2.

A team of 15 observers from 10 organizations counted 3,488 manatees on the east coast and 3,132 on the west coast.

The number is 370 more than the 6,250 manatees counted last year, the highest since the program began in 1991.

So far this year, 68 manatees have died in state waters, including one in Manatee County, according to the FWC. In 2016, 520 manatees died in Florida, 15 of them in Manatee County.

The surveys are conducted annually in cold weather when manatees are clustered

Florida manatee survey counts

8,000

BY CINDY LANE

7,000 6,000 5,000 4,000 3,000 2,000 1,000 SUBMITTED | FWC

Manatees congregate in the warm waters of the Manatee Lagoon adjacent to the FPL Riviera Beach Next Generation Clean Energy Center. in warm-water sites, making them easier to find, according to the FWC. The surveys cover all of the known wintering habitats of manatees in Florida and provide researchers with a count of manatees visible in

Florida waters at the time of the survey.

The survey is conducted to comply with Florida Statute 370.12(4) which requires an annual, impartial, scientific benchmark census of the

0

2008

2009

2010

2011

2012

2013

2014

2015

2016

2017

Source: Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission

manatee population.

You can show your support for manatees by purchasing a manatee Florida license plate at www.BuyaPlate.com or a manatee decal at MyFWC. com/ManateeSeaTurtleDecals.

Funds from the license plates and decals support manatee research and conservation.

To report a dead or distressed manatee, call the FWC Wildlife Alert Hotline at 888404-FWCC (3922).

Pot ban OK'd on first reading Holmes Beach commissioners unanimously approved the first readings of three ordinances Feb. 14 with no discussion.

Commissioner Marvin Grossman was absent.

The ordinances moving to a second

and final reading are the city’s ban on the commercial sale of pets; a ban on the commercial growing, cultivation and sale of marijuana; and a schedule of civil violations for violations of the marijuana ban.

The marijuana ban does not extend

to those with a valid medical marijuana prescription who grow up to three small plants for their personal use.

Also approved unanimously for its final reading was an extension to the city’s formula business moratorium.

The moratorium blocks formula

businesses from obtaining a business tax receipt or building permit while commissioners consider permanent regulation options. The moratorium extension expires Oct. 31.

‛S YOUR COMFORT ZONE? WHERE

30

www.amisun.com

THE SUN

Submitted | Bridge Street Merchants

This trio of Mermaids is on display at the AMOB restaurant at the Historic Bridge Street Pier.

Mermaids leaving soon The 51 entries submitted for the Bridge Street Merchants and AMI Sun sponsored Mermaids public arts project and online auction will remain on display at 13 locations in the Bridge Street business district in Bradenton Beach through Sunday, Feb. 26. Online bids made in hopes of purchasing a specific piece of locally made, one-of-a-kind, mermaidthemed art can be submitted until 11:55 p.m. that night at www.visitbridgestreet.com.

“Just grab a map and stroll through our stores and restaurants to see them at your leisure,” said Public Art Coordinator Amanda Escobio. A map of the Mermaids display locations is available online at www.visitbridgestreet.com, and free copies of printed maps are available at Mermaid Haven/Bridge Street Interiors and several other Bridge Street businesses.

Bids received range from $375 to $15, and some pieces have not yet received bids.

“Don’t assume that bids are out of your range,” said participating artist Diana Fava, whose “Crystal Mermaid” is one of nine entries that had not yet received a bid as of Monday morning.

Proceeds from the online auction will benefit the participating artists, who will receive 50 percent of the final selling price, and some artists have designated specific charities to receive their proceeds. After expenses are accounted for, the Bridge Street Merchants will use the remaining proceeds to fund annual events like Christmas on Bridge Street and Blues, Brews & BBQ, which in turn benefit Turning Points of Bradenton, the Food Bank of Manatee and other charitable organizations. For more information, call 941-896-2222.

Open 7 days a week, 8 a.m. – 8 p.m.

Most insurance plans accepted Digital X-rays & EKGs Minor emergencies, illnesses & injuries

Bradenton

4647 Manatee Ave W. 941.745.5999

www.bradentonurgentcare.com Member of Manatee Physician Alliance

170306

FEBRUARY 22, 2017

www.amisun.com

FEBRUARY 22, 2017

THE SUN

Guild honors two artists The Artists' Guild of Anna Maria Island, at 5414 Marina Drive in Holmes Beach, will celebrate the work of two of its artists in the month of March. There will be a reception for Margie Amberge and Polly Tetrault as part of the Holmes Beach Art District Art Walk on Friday, March 10, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. This event is open to the public, and both artists look forward to talking about their work. Throughout March their work will be featured in the window of the Gallery.

Amberge began her life-time love affair with the camera at the age of 8 and now sees all life through the lens of a camera.

Her photos have been featured in galleries and publications throughout the country.

Tetrault works in a post impressionistic style using encaustics, pastels and oils. Her works are primarily landscapes and florals, but whatever pulls on her heart becomes a source for her creations.

For more information call 941778-6694 or see the website at www.amiartistsguildgallery.com.

Learn goytaku at Art League

submitted

"The Kokonut Hut," photo by Margie Amberge

submitted

"Good Morning," encaustic painting by Polly Tetrault

The Anna Maria Island Art League, at 5312 Holmes Blvd., Holmes Beach, hosts Brenda Alcorn, who is teaching a gyoAlcorn taku workshop on Wednesday, March 8, from 1:30 to 4:30 p.m.

Gyotaku is the traditional method of Japanese fish printing dated from the mid 1800s.

This form of nature printing may have been used by fishermen to record their catches, but has also become an art form of its own.

A real fish is used in this technique using etching ink.

After the fish is inked, the fish is printed onto fine Japanese paper. More than one print can be placed on the paper.

The process includes cleaning the fish, sealing up parts that may leak onto the paper and making a tampo, which is used to put the ink on the fish.

Alcorn will supply all necessary supplies for the exception of an awl, which possibly

31

can be found in any hardware store.

The class limited to eight students and the cost is $45 for League members and $65 for non-members. Scholarships may be available. Call the Art League at 941-778-2099 for more details and to register.

Art Space exhibit The works of Maine artist and Anna Maria Island seasonal resident Rachel Schiro will be displayed through March 12 at Artspace in Bayview Plaza above the Anna Maria Post Office.

There will be an artist’s reception on Friday, Feb. 24, from 5:30 to 7 p.m., featuring fruity snacks, sangria and the music of Thor Olsen.

Entitled “Juicey Fruit,” the show consists of Schiro’s still life images. It will be on display from Wednesdays through Saturdays, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. and whenever the doors are open.

For information, call Artspace at 941-243-3835 or visit info@artspaceannamaria.com.

32

www.amisun.com

THE SUN

FEBRUARY 22, 2017

Holmes Beach commissioners plan land holding expansion Holmes Beach city leaders are considering expanding the city’s open space land holdings.

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

HOLMES BEACH – City leaders are launching a new initiative by acquiring vacant lots in the city to use as open green space for residents.

After some discussion Feb. 14, commissioners voted 3 to 2, with Chair Judy Titsworth and Commissioner Marvin Grossman dissenting, to purchase two 5,000 square foot lots on the east side of Avenue C to expand the city’s holdings near Grassy Point Preserve.

The vote gave Mayor Bob Johnson authorization to continue with an agreement with owner Clyde Dickey to purchase the lots for a combined $330,000, $37,000 less

than the appraised value.

“I think this is more of a want than a need,” Titsworth said.

“I want to preserve as much as we can of this Island,” Commissioner Carol Soustek said. “It’s a prime time to take advantage of something I didn’t think would even come our way.”

Grossman said while he liked the idea of the city purchasing more property near the preserve, the price tag gave him pause.

“I think the price is excessive,” he said.

Human Resources Specialist Mary Buonagura presented a staff report on the issue noting an adjacent lot of the same size had been sold in 2016 for $160,000 to be developed for a residence.

“The number arrived at was really based on that one lot sale and current value,” Johnson said.

“I think we should jump on it,” Commissioner Jean Peelen said of the proposed purchase.

City Treasurer Lori Hill suggested using the city’s unrestricted cash reserves for the purchase and budgeting $80,000 per year for the next few years for land purchases to recover the money.

Once the purchase is complete, the property is planned to be used as a parking lot, picnic area and provide restroom facilities for Grassy Point. Before those plans can go into effect, commissioners agreed they need to address parking issues at the north end of Avenue C. “The parking is really bad down there,” resident Edna Ervin said.

Titsworth asked Building Official Jim McGuinness to look into the parking issues and ensure utilities can be run to the site for development.

The two lots adjacent to Grassy Point aren’t the only open areas the city is considering purchasing. see land, page 37

www.amisun.com

FEBRUARY 22, 2017

THE SUN

33

TOM VAUGHT | SUN

New AID board

Voted Best Mexican Food on AMI 2016! www.WickedCantina.com

Tacos

Burgers

Seafood Breakfast Served 7:30 - 11:00 am

happy hour 12-6 daily

Best House Margaritas in Town!

Full Liquor Bar..Live Music..Ample Parking Family Friendly, Gulf View Casual Dining

101 7th Street N. Bradenton Beach Fl. 34217

(941)281-2990

New members of the All Island Denominations (AID) board of directors were sworn in by Gloria Dei Pastor Rosemary Baker on Wednesday, Feb. 8, at the monthly meeting at Roser Memorial Community Church. From left, board members are Cornelia Zanetti, from St. Bernard Catholic Church; Rev. Dr. Bob O’Keef, of Roser Memorial Church; Ruth Richardson, from The Episcopal Church of the Annunciation; and Dickson Dunsworth, of St. Bernard Catholic Church. Not pictured is Peggy Nash, of Roser, the historian; and Janet Clark, from St. Bernard, the executive secretary. AID is composed of members from all six churches on the Island, and it supports the Roser Food Pantry, which helps those on the Island in need with food and personal items. AID meets at a different church on the second Wednesday of each month.

34

THE SUN

REAL ESTATE

FEBRUARY 22, 2017

Sightseeing a million and over T

here’s an old, overused expression and probably mostly untrue in the real estate business, “Buyers are liars.” Not to put a fine point on it but buyers may not actually be lying. They more than likely don’t have a clue what they want. Just watch a few episodes of House Hunters on HGTV and you’ll know exactly what I’m talking about.

For the most part this is just a lack of experience in looking for a property and changes fast once they have a little realtor education under their belts. However, there are buyers among us who aren’t really buyers; they are sightseers. The problem is how do you tell the difference?

Experienced real estate professionals become pretty savvy at spotting the sightseers and are particularly careful with the more expensive homes. If a potential buyer shows up at an open house, takes a look around admiring the furniture and decorating then says they’ll get back to you, he/she is sightseeing. But if they keep

Castles in the Sand Louise Bolger coming back to look at the property and never make an offer, a red flag should go up.

Since Anna Maria Island is awash in luxury properties, the sightseers can’t be far behind. And speaking of luxury properties, here’s my three month update on million dollar and over properties: This analysis will be for sales in the months of October, November and December for Cortez and the three cities on Anna Maria Island: Starting with Cortez, there was only one over million dollar sale in this time period closing for $1,375,000. During the previous three months there were two.

The city of Anna Maria closed six over million dollar sales ranging from $3,950,000 to $1,100,000 during this time.

During the previous three months there were eight sales.

Holmes Beach and Bradenton Beach had nine over one million dollar properties ranging from $1,650,000 to $1,000,000.

During July, August and September of last year, seven properties were closed.

As of this writing, on the market Cortez has seven over one million dollar properties from $1,850,000 to $1,150,000 and one listed for $975,000. During the previous three months there were three.

Anna Maria city has 47 over million dollar properties from $5,495,000 to $1,050,000, and three in the $900,000’s from $990,000 to $949,000. During the previous three months there were 40 properties over one million and four above $900,000.

And finally, Holmes Beach and Bradenton Beach have 79 over one million

properties listed from $3,995,000 to $1,049,000, as well as 14 properties ranging from $999,500 to $919,000. During the previous three months, there were 80 properties above one million listed and 16 over $900,000.

I always like to point out the properties just under a million, since this price range is very close to the million mark. The statistics for the closed properties is from the Manatee County Property Appraiser’s Office, and the available properties are from realtor.com, which generally reflects what is listed on the local multiple listing service.

The number of closed sales and on the market properties remain consistent, with the exception of Cortez, which has a lot more over million dollar properties available. The true story will be told when the traditional buying season wraps up. In the meantime, watch out for those sightseers; they’re the ones with the bright red sunburn and socks.

www.amisun.com

FEBRUARY 22, 2017

THE SUN

35

Shagadelic 70s return to The Center

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

It was a groovy weekend at The Center of Anna Maria Island as the nonprofit’s annual Murder Mystery took center stage.

The ninth annual event, titled “Shag Another Day: Convention of Evildoers,” took place Feb. 17 and 18 at The Center, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria.

The two-night event took attendees on a trip back to the 1970s complete with a swinging soundtrack, psychedelic décor and a whodunit mystery, which kept audiences guessing until the very last moments when the murderer was finally revealed.

This year’s event was different from years past. Not only did it span two nights, but the murderer, not even revealed to the cast until the last moment, was different each night. Director Beth Shaughnessy took on dual roles, also serving as the play’s writer.

The cast of evil doers was made up of Murder Mystery favorites including Monica Simpson as Miss Fortune, Michael Shaughnessy as Mad Maverick, Erin Heckler as Honey Potts, Will Schenerlein as Professor Gas, Caleb Roberts as Number 3 and Brianna Roberts as Pussy Aplenty. Rounding out the cast were

Kristin Swain | Sun

From left: Miss Fortune, played by Monica Simpson, comforts Dr. Upheaval, personified by Don Purvis, with the help of resident dominatrix Pussy Aplenty, played by Brianna Roberts, as his region faces coming in last among the nation’s evil doers. third year veteran Don Purvis as Dr. UpKristin Swain | Sun heaval and crowd favorite Ray Gardner From left: Convention coordinator Stewart Moon introduces the audience Feb. 18 to Saturday as detective Awesome Powers. night costume contest winner and solver of the Murder Mystery, Bryan Johnson.

The play provided audience members hula hoop challenges, live auctions, dining drew more than 300 people, earning with laughs in the midst of not one, but $9,500 in the live auction and more than two murders, with some well-intentioned ing and merriment.

The event was sponsored by Air & an estimated $2,400 in the silent auction. fun poked at several Island residents.

Energy with food provided by one of Auction items were provided by The CenDr. Upheaval, regional president of The Center’s resident personal chefs, the ter, Jennifer Kaleta, Eat Here, The Beach Villains Against Good, welcomed more Traveling Gourmet.

Bistro, Acqua Aveda Salon and Spa and than 450 guests to the two-night event.

While preliminary estimates for funds The Fresh Market, among others.

Throughout the play, which encouraged some audience participation, scenes raised were not available at press time The Center set a $30,000 fundraising goal for the Murder Mystery. were interspersed with costume contests, for The Sun, the Saturday night gather-

36

THE SUN

WWW.AMISUN.COM - CELEBRATING 15 YEARS

speed: Turning back the limit FROM PAGE 1

was taking place until the new speed limit signs were in place.

The speed limit crossing the bridge also was lowered from 45 mph to 35 mph, which commissioners did not contest.

“It’s a very easy fix,” Chair Judy Titsworth said.

A special meeting was called Feb. 16 to formally approve the resolution before it was sent to FDOT. Commissioners again voted unanimously in favor of the measure.

“I don’t know if 35, 25 or 15 is a good speed limit for the Island,” Commissioner Jean Peelen said.

“My issue is with the process.

There is no substantive support for a speed limit change.”

“I think the absolutely correct thing to do is go back to where we

were before we woke up and there were signs in the ground,” Commissioner Marvin Grossman said.

Peelen also motioned for commissioners to revert the speed limit along Gulf Drive near Anna Maria Elementary School to 35 mph from 25 mph. The speed limit was reduced in May 2016 by Tokajer, as the city’s traffic engineer, without commission input.

Peelen’s motion was approved unanimously by commissioners during the Feb. 14 meeting, but received a 4 to 1 vote with Commissioner Pat Morton dissenting during the Feb. 16 special meeting.

During the special meeting, City Attorney Patricia Petruff presented commissioners with a section of Florida state statute setting the maximum speed at 30 mph.

“I understand how this occurred, but I don’t think the proper investigation to raise the speed limit from 25 to 35 was done,” she said.

“I don’t want to compound the issue by ignoring the language in a Florida state statute.”

The statute requires a free-flow traffic study be done prior to raising the speed limit in a municipality over 30 miles per hour.

Peelen suggested adding two clauses to the resolution addressing the statute and stating the commission’s intent to revisit the issue after a traffic study is done.

New speed limit signs are expected to be in place no later than Feb. 24.

Both areas will undergo an independent traffic study and the speed limits will be reassessed by commissioners at a later date.

FEBRUARY 22, 2017

www.amisun.com

FEBRUARY 22, 2017

LAND: Plan considered FROM PAGE 32

During the Feb. 16 work session, Johnson brought an idea before commissioners to borrow up to $1 million to establish a land acquisition fund. Johnson suggested a 10-year loan period, estimating annual payments at $95,000 to $120,000, depending on the term of the loan and interest rate.

First on the list of acquisitions would be considering the purchase of two vacant lots located on the east side of Gloria Dei Lutheran Church.

The two lots are owned by the church, which hopes to sell them for enough money to establish a trust to help pay some of the increasing expenses of the nonprofit. Church leaders previously petitioned the city to change the land use

and zoning of the property to allow the lots to be sold and developed as residential R-2 instead of public/semi-public. The plea was rejected by commissioners.

Rev. Rosemary Backer of Gloria Dei spoke to commissioners, thanking them for considering purchasing the property and preserving it as green space for the city.

“Gloria Dei supports the city’s efforts to move forward, and we look forward to a collaborative effort,” she said. “We hope it will be a good solution for all involved.”

“Things have changed so much in our city that we need to look forward,” Soustek said. “It’s great to provide open space when we’re given the opportunity.”

THE SUN

37

Drainage valves installed to ease flooding The Anna Maria Public Works Department has installed four recently purchased WaStop check valves in hopes of addressing some of the city’s flooding issues. Recommended by City Engineer Lynn Burnett, the valves allow stormwater to drain into the Gulf and the bay, but prevent rising water from those bodies of water from entering back into the pipes and flowing inland and creating standing water when heavy rains are accompanied by high tide. Purchased at a cost of $10,904, the check valves were installed at four locations along North Shore Drive, North Bay Boulevard and South Bay Boulevard.

38

THE SUN

www.amisun.com

FEBRUARY 22, 2017

www.amisun.com

FEBRUARY 22, 2017

THE SUN

39

Amended mooring ordinance proposed The proposed ordinance will be subjected to one more public hearing before it is adopted.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

BRADENTON BEACH – City officials are working on an ordinance that would provide for greater enforcement of the navigable waters and unmanaged anchorage south of the Historic Bridge Street Pier.

City Attorney Ricinda Perry presented Ordinance 17-479 on first reading during the Thursday, Feb. 16 City Commission meeting.

When adopted upon second reading at a future meeting, the new ordinance will replace Ordinance 09-412, which was adopted in 2009, when the city was pursuing the creation of a managed mooring field. Those efforts were later abandoned due to the permitting and construction costs associated with anchoring mooring balls into state-owned submerged land.

Although the mooring field was never fully pursued, the 2009 ordinance still works in unison with permission

granted by the state of Florida that provided the Bradenton Beach Police Department with expanded enforcement boundaries. These boundaries still extend 1,500 feet from the shore and out into the Intracoastal Waterway from Eighth Street South to Cortez Road. The police department also has enforcement jurisdiction within 500 feet from shoreline for the rest of the city on both the bay and Gulf sides.

Last week’s meeting included no discussion on any present pursuit of a managed mooring field, but the new ordinance would still allow for a managed mooring field or anchorage at a later date.

Consensus reached

Speciale told the commission he needs an updated ordinance in order to address his concerns about property management operations being advertised and conducted in regard to renting sailboats out as places of residence.

Speciale said is it virtually impossible to identify the true owners of many of the vessels being rented, which leaves the city on the hook for removing the vessels that sink.

The commission reached consensus on several key elements contained in the ordinance.

The commission agreed to allow code enforcement regulations to be enforced in the city waterways. This would allow escalating fines to be levied on repeat offenders, rather than the $75 citations issued by the police department.

The commission agreed that business operations conducted on vessels anchored in city waters would be required to obtain a business tax receipt from the city; but this would not apply to water taxis and ferries that dock temporarily at the public day dock, where financial transactions are prohibited.

The commission agreed to strike language proposed by Perry that would have established a permitting or licensing process for water taxis and ferries.

The commission agreed that these were desired activities, and there was no desire to inhibit them.

The commission agreed that the ordinance would be broad enough to incorporate the enforcement of state, county, city and Coast Guard laws and regulations.

After differentiating that mooring involves tying off to a fixed or submerged structure and anchoring simply involves dropping anchor, the commission agreed that all such references listed in the ordinance would apply to mooring, anchoring and tying up to another vessel – a practice known as rafting.

The commission agreed that various fines could be issued for different infractions and differing fine amounts could be established by a city resolution that is easier to amend than a city ordinance.

At the suggestion of Perry, the commission agreed that gambling boats will not be allowed to dock at the public day dock or debark anywhere in city waters.

The commission agreed to strike all references to the dinghy dock that were included in the 2009 ordinance in anticipation of a managed mooring field. Instead, the dock between the Bridge Tender Inn and the pier will be treated simply as one of the city’s public docks, with no special rights given to those who use dinghies to commute between their offshore vessels.

40

THE SUN

www.amisun.com

FEBRUARY 22, 2017

Officer receives accollades Steve Masi became a full-time member of the police force in October.

BY JOE HENDRICKS

SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisin.com

BRADENTON BEACH – During last week’s Bradenton Beach Commission meeting, Mayor Bill Shearon asked Deputy Clerk Marie Montoya to read aloud an e-mail that praised the efforts of Officer Steve Masi.

City resident and Bay Tides Condominium President Jim Lynch sent the e-mail to Police Chief Sam Speciale and the city commission members on Monday, Feb. 13.

“I would like to take this opportunity to

thank and commend Officer Steve Masi for his outstanding performance yesterday when he responded to a trespass offense at Bay Tides Condo in Bradenton Beach.

Officer Masi showed Masi tremendous competency, wisdom, maturity and strength in the way he handled our call for assistance.

“This type of service makes our residents really appreciate what you guys do for all of us. This recognition is important, especially

during times when some citizens do not understand how hard your jobs really are and how much expertise and patience it takes to perform your jobs well. Officer Masi was a great selection to our city’s police force and he is a real keeper. Please convey our thanks to Officer Masi,” Lynch’s e-mail said.

In reference to a certificate of accommodation Masi received in 2014, when he came to the rescue of a woman who had accidentally set herself on fire, Vice Mayor John Chappie said, “This is not the first time that Officer Masi has been recognized.”

At that time, Masi was off-duty and serving as a reserve officer. Last October, he was

promoted to a full-time position on the police force.

“It’s important we recognize these guys and it says a lot for Officer Masi’s character,” Chappie said.

Shearon agreed and said that was why he asked to have the e-mail read aloud and entered into the public record.

While patrolling Bridge Street Friday night, Masi was congratulated for the recognition he received from Lynch and the commission.

Masi said he loves being a Bradenton Beach police officer, and he plans to remain with the department for a long time.

FEBRUARY 22, 2017

SPORTS

THE SUN

41

Tyler’s freezes out Mason Martin

BY MONICA SIMPSON SPECIAL TO THE SUN

The lights at the Island’s community center were on Thursday night as the adults hit the football field for the first week of the adult co-ed flag football season. Team Tyler’s Ice Cream’s speed and agility could not be stopped by Team Mason Martin in the damp cold Island air.

Team captain Ray Gardner found himself on opposite sides of the field against his former team captain Frank Agnelli, of Mason Martin.

The wealth of talent seen on Tyler’s Ice Cream was witnessed Thursday night with Jordan Ganey, Dina Calvary, KD Belton, Rob Alderson and Zach Shield, all sharing the stats sheet with Gardner on both sides of the football.

The first three plays of the game set the tone for the night with quick yardage by Shield and Calvary before the long sprint

by Gardner to put the first six points on the scoreboard. Mason Martin’s defense stopped the point after leaving the score 6-0.

Defensive flag pulls for Team Tyler’s Ice Cream helped keep Team Mason Martin out the game. All of the Tyler’s players had at least two pulls, making the difference on the first offensive possession for Mason Martin.

Three snaps, three plays ending with a catch by Chad Woods short

monica simpson | SUN

Tyler's Ice Cream's KD Belton makes a run after intercepting the pass of Mason Martin's Charles Buky Thursday night at The Center. of the first down.

Playing quarterback, Gardner found Belton past midfield only to be stopped by David Dunham.

After the snap and with the option to run, Gardner found Ganey all by himself for the second touchdown of the game. The extra point attempt was perfectly executed to Belton at the back of the end zone, moving the score to 13-0.

At the helm, team captain Charles Buky, who had 150 total passing yards in the game, tried to move the football down the field.

Buky and his team were stopped again after only three plays, with passes to Woods and defensive flag pulls by Calvary.

With five minutes left on the

clock for the first half after the first snap, what seemed to be a touchdown run by Gardner was called back on an offensive penalty – impeding the rusher.

On third down, Ganey’s dropped pass ended Tyler’s Ice Cream’s offensive progression.

Buky hit Dunham for a sevenyard gain before the stop by Belton. Agnelli’s short run took the football near midfield. Team Mason Martin finally gained a first down with the catch by Woods. Despite the positive offensive series, the strong defense of Gardner’s team stopped Buky’s team from scoring once again.

Unable to take advantage of the last seconds of the half, Tyler’s

Ice Cream started the second half of the game on defense with a 13-point lead.

The off the line speed of Ganey caught Buky by surprise. After two Ganey sacks, Tyler’s Ice Cream took over offensively. Belton’s run after the Gardner pass was finally stopped by Robert Kaston.

With Alderson under center, Gardner took the ball down the field until he came face-to-face with Dunham. Gardner found Belton at the front pylon for another six points. Missing the extra point, Team Tyler’s Ice Cream lead by 19 points.

Under immense pressure by Ganey, Mason Martin’s Buky just got off the long pass to Woods for the team’s first touchdown, closing the scoring gap to 19-6. The extra point pass was too low for Woods, hitting the ground before getting to the intended receiver.

Gardner once again lit up the field with his speed and crazy effective moves with nine minutes left in the game. His second touchdown of the game advanced the score to 25-6.

With only a miracle’s chance of coming back in the game, Buky’s team took over on offense only to be cut short with an interception by Belton and the follow-up touchdown by Ganey. The extra point by Belton sealed the deal and ended the game with the victory by Tyler’s Ice Cream with the final score of 32-6.

Sun Scoreboard Tuesday, Feb. 14 Adult Co-Ed Volleyball

Anna Maria CrossFit 2 Beach to Bay 0 (game 1 25-20, game 2 25-15) Air & Energy 2 Intechgrate Systems 0 (game 1 25-13, game 2 25-15)

Thursday, Feb. 16 Adult Co-Ed Flag Football Beach to Bay Smoothie King

22 13

Beach House Real Estate Moss Builders

13 6

Tyler’s Ice Cream Mason Martin

32 6

Saturday, Feb. 18 Youth Flag Football: 8- to 10-Year-Old League Beach to Bay Cloud Pest Control

40 21

Bark & Co. Win by Forfeit Lancaster Design Truly Nolen Slim’s Place

Win by Forfeit

Youth Flag Football: 11- to 13-Year-Old League Progressive Cabinetry Anna Maria Oyster Bar

21 6

Miller Electric Planet Stone

33 8

Risner defends title The Key Royale Club men played the men's annual Club Championship over the last two weeks with first place going to the defending Champ Gary Risner, with scores of 69-68 - 137. Second place went to Ron Pritchard, with 75-77 - 152 and third place was claimed

by Art McMillan with 82-75 - 157.

Jim Auch, Chet Hutton, Hank Trembly and Fred Meyer took first place in the Monday morning, Feb. 13, best two balls of the foursome tournament with a score of 47. Al Kaiser, Wade Ladue, Art Hibbs and a proxy came in second with a score of 48 and Bill Martin, Jim Thornton, Bob Reid and a proxy came in third with a score of 51.

On Monday afternoon, February 13, Dave Richardson took first place with a score of +5 in the modified Stapleford game. Tom Perkins came in second with a score of +3. Art McMillan, Wayne Patterson and Dave Richardson took the team contest with a score of +3 On Tuesday, For the Love of Golf, the women's member/guest event was held at Key Royale Club. Sixty-eight members and guests participated in the four-person scramble. Taking honors for low net at 18.75 were Debbie Richardson and guest Sharon Ellen, Jana Samuels and guest Barbara Krueger.

Chairs Meredith Slavin and Roxanne

Koche organized a stellar event, which included golf and luncheon. Prizes for longest drive, closest to the pin and closest to the red heart line were awarded. Contestants also vied for Valentine golf balls by chipping through a raffia heart and played a hole entirely with a nine iron.

The team of Herb Clauhs, Dale Johnson, Wayne Patterson and Peter Soleveld tied with the team of Bob Blaser, Ron Babcock, Ron Buck, Jon Holcomb and Larry Solberg tied for first in the Thursday scramble with scores of 29, 3 under par.

submitted

Left to right: Debbie Richardson, Sharon Ellen, Jana Samuels and Barbara Krueger took top honors.

42

www.amisun.com

THE SUN

TOWN CRIER Free memory screening Sue Fox, of the Sarasota Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association, will present “Memory Screening for Alzheimer’s” on Wednesday, Feb. 22, at 2 p.m. at the Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. This program is free and seating will be available on a first- come, first-served basis. No prior registration is necessary. For more information, call 941-778-6341.

Writer speaks on media ethics Kelly McBride discusses ways to become a better citizen on Facebook and other social media at the Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, on Thursday, Feb. 23, at 2 p.m.

This speech is part of the Friends of the Library’s Travel and Lecture Series.

McBride is vice president of the Poynter Institute, where she is teaching journalists how to be more effective with social media. She spend 15 years as a reporter for a daily newspaper.

The lecture is free, and seating is on a first-come, first-served basis. Call 941778-6341 for more information.

Chill out with fire Come to Ungarelli Preserve at 4000 Palma Sola Blvd. in west Bradenton on Thursday, Feb. 23, from 9 to 11 a.m. for a “Four Elements Earthwalk: Fire.”

This ongoing monthly series will help attendees relax, de-stress and reconnect deeply with nature. They will learn to savor nature by turning off the brain and focusing on the present moment using basic mindfulness techniques with a new element-based theme each month. The class is suitable for ages 16 and up. No reservations are needed.

Food and fun Bingo at Annie Silver Community

Center, 103 23rd St., Bradenton Beach, runs each Thursday evening in February and March from 7 to 9 p.m. There will be drinks and cake available and door prizes.

Seniors hold book sale Senior Adventures, a local club for seniors to join together for companionship and fun, will get together on Friday, Feb. 24, at 10 a.m. at Annie Silver Community Center, 103 24th St. N., Bradenton Beach, for the monthly book sale and pot luck lunch. The public is welcome to purchase books to help finance the group. For more information, call Peg at 941-778-3106.

Sale at Pines The Pines Trailer Park, at the east end of Bridge Street in Bradenton Beach, is hosting its annual street sale on Saturday, Feb 25, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. and Sunday, Feb. 26, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Shop for gently used items plus homemade pies and sloppy Joes.

Kiwanis tours The Center The Kiwanis Club of Anna Maria Island will meet at 8:30 a.m. on Saturday, Feb. 25, at The Center, 407 Magnolia, Ave., Anna Maria, for a tour. Members will hold their regular meeting there.

Net mending class scheduled Local Cortez fisherman Nathan Meschelle will hold a net mending class at the Florida Maritime Museum Folk School, 4415 119th St. W., Cortez, on Saturday, Feb. 25, from 8:30 to 11:30 a.m. This class will provide all the tools necessary to learn how to mend nets, as well as brief history of the net mending tradition in the commercial fishing village of Cortez.

This class is $25 plus a $15 supply fee. Space is limited and fees are due

by Feb. 18. Call 941-708-6120 or visit the museum to register. All proceeds from this class will be donated to the Organized Fisherman of Florida (OFF)

Cortez Chapter and the Folk School at the Florida Maritime Museum.

Take the preserve wagon ride The Manatee County Parks and Natural Resources Department has a unique way to see Robinson Preserve, by covered wagon, on Saturday, Feb. 25, from 9 to 10 a.m. at 1704 99th St. N.W., in Bradenton. A tour guide will explain the flora and fauna of the area, its history and highlights.

Riders are asked to show up 15 or more minutes before the time the wagon leaves. Meet at the wagon loading ramp near the screened-in pavilion.

Seats are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Detect problems in time You could be alerted to possible stroke or other health problems by taking Prevention Plus Stroke and Vascular Screening offered Tuesday, Feb. 28, and Monday, March 6, at The Center, 407 Magnolia, Anna Maria. The screenings are being offered at reduced prices.

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

To register, call 888-667-7587.

Movie time at the library The Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, will show “The Boys of ‘36” on Tuesday, Feb. 28, at 2 p.m. The move highlights an American rowing team in the 1936 Olympics in Berlin, as the Third Reich was in power and Adolph Hitler wanted to prove German superiority to the world.

Attendance is free.

For more information, call the library at 941-778-6341.

FEBRUARY 22, 2017

Learn to kayak Instructors from Wayne Adventures will give a three-hour class in kayaking on Tuesday, Feb. 28, from 9 a.m.

To noon during which kayakers will explore the marshes and mangroves of Robinson Preserve, 1704 99th St. N.W., in Bradenton. No prior experience is necessary.

For those interested in learning how to load a kayak on a car, a demo will follow. Kayak and gear are provided.

All participants must wear a life jacket.

Reservations are required. Call 941742-5757. ext. 7.

Author to sign book Russell J. Bunio will discuss and sign copies of his book, “The Graduate Handbook,” on Friday, March 3, from noon to 2 p.m., at Paradise Found, 505 Pine Avenue, in Anna Maria. In “The Graduate Handbook,” Bunio gives readers tips on shortcuts to applying their education to the real world. By creating a list of 50 best practices (proven and improved upon), he helps graduates or those just starting a career. Each practice is easy to understand and supported by examples.

Bunio has had a distinguished career with General Motors, Cummins Engine Co. and The Boeing Co.He was educated at West Virginia University (BS in economics) and the European American Study Center, Basel, Switzerland.

For more information or to reserve a copy, call 941-213-9687.

Reunion set The 33rd Annual Greenwich/Florida Reunion, benefitting Greenwich, Conn., charities, will be held on Saturday, March 4, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Jacaranda West Country Club in Venice, Fla., with buffet luncheon. Former Greenwich residents and vacationers from that city are welcome to attend.

For more information or to reserve a spot, call Grace Brown at 941-429-5423.

FEBRUARY 22, 2017

BEACH BEAT Anna Maria

2/11, confiscated property, 200 block of North Shore Drive. The deputy stopped the driver for traffic offenses, and he presented an expired driver’s license.

The deputy seized the license.

Bradenton Beach

2/11, trespassing, Circle K, 103 Gulf Drive S. The clerk called police because a man came into his store took some food and began eating it at the back of the store. The officer told him to pay for the food, and he said he didn’t have money. Another customer paid for the food, and the clerk had the officer issue a trespass warning to the man.

2/13, battery, 100 block of Gulf Drive S. The victim told the officer her ex-girlfriend beat and scratched her while she was waiting for a trolley. She had two witnesses. When he contacted the ex-girlfriend, she admitted hitting and scratching the victim and the officer placed her under arrest.

2/13, grand theft, Anna Maria Island Club, 2600 Gulf Drive S. While workers were reroofing the club, a man put a number of roofing panels into his truck and took off.

2/15, trespass after warning, Circle K, 103 Gulf Drive S. The homeless subject was arrested when he returned to the store after being warned.

Holmes Beach

2/3, larceny/theft, 5500 block of Gulf Drive. The property owner reported patio furniture was stolen while he was not staying there.

2/3, criminal mischief, 500 block of Manatee Avenue. A rock was thrown, and it broke out a window in a car passing by.

2/3, trespassing, 4000 block of Fifth Avenue. Police found a rental house had been entered and possibly lived in. They found numerous items indicating people had been staying there illegally.

2/4, DUI, 600 block of Manatee Avenue. The driver was stopped after the officer observed he was not staying in his lane. When the officer approached the suspect’s car, he noticed the suspect was eating a cheeseburger. He also noticed the driver’s eyes were watery and bloodshot. The officer administered a field sobriety test and arrested him.

2/4, Baker Act, 400 block of 62nd Street. The complainant called police when she saw a male cut his arms with a knife. She went outside and found out he had cut himself after his girlfriend broke up with him. He was taken to Blake Medical Center.

2/6, driving without a correct plate, speeding, 700 block of Manatee Avenue. The officer stopped the driver for travelling 45 mph in a 25 mph zone. The driver admitted he had taken a plate from his wife’s car and out it on his car, which he had recently purchased but not registered, He was ticketed.

www.amisun.com

Obituaries John Gilligan John "Jack" Gilligan, born Jan. 13, 1938, passed away early on the morning of Feb. 6, 2017.

He was the beloved husband of Kathy (nee Powers) for 54 years, devoted father to Patricia (Sean Lyons), John Patrick (Eileen) and Edward (Randall) and loving grandfather of Connor, Stephanie and John Patrick.

Born in Park Slope, Brooklyn, N.Y., in 1938, Jack was a graduate of parochial grammar schools in Brooklyn and attended St. Francis High School. He served honorably in the United States Army in Europe and was a New York State Trooper before joining the New York City Police Department (NYPD). He served with the NYPD for 26 years, during which time he earned a bachelor’s degree from the New York Institute of Technology. He retired from the NYPD at the rank of sergeant.

Jack and Kathy lived in Brooklyn, N.Y., for a short time after getting married in 1962, and were then residents of Rockaway Beach, N.Y., for over 30 years. Jack was active in the Boy Scouts with both of his sons, attending Boy Scout meetings, chaperoning camping trips and helping with Scout projects.

After retirement, Jack and Kathy followed the sun and split their time between Las Vegas, Nev., and Anna Maria Island. They eventu-

THE SUN

ally moved to Anna Maria full time, where Jack served on the board of the condominium association.

Although he was not a beach person, he enjoyed the relaxed beach lifestyle.

Jack and Kathy were also avid travelers. They visited 47 U.S. states together as well as various other locations including Mexico, Canada, Africa, Bermuda, Aruba and Puerto Rico. They traveled to Europe numerous times, with Jack being was particularly fond of Germany, where he had served in the U.S. Army. One of his last trips to Europe was spent in Munich with his family, where he was able to revisit the locations of his youth.

Known for his sense of humor, keen wit, uncanny memory and an appetite for trivia, he was always the friendly guy people turned to for good conversation and debate.

He could regale you with a story, entertain with a poem or song and engage with masterful conversation skills.

Jack is also survived by his sister, Catherine Godkin; brother, Raymond; and in-laws John (Vera) Powers; Maureen (Tom) Brady; Anne (Tom) Hartnett and Barbara Lynch as well as their children and grandchildren.

He had love for all and was loved by all.

A funeral Mass for John was held on Feb. 18th, 2017, on Anna Maria Island. He will be buried at the Sarasota National Cemetery in Florida. Online condolences may be made at www.shannonfuneralhomes.com.

43

Catherine Mascher Catherine Mascher, 91, of Bradenton, died Feb. 1, 2017. A memorial Mass will be held at 10 a.m. on Sat, Feb. 25, at St. Bernard Catholic Church, 248 S. Harbor Drive, Holmes Beach. Inurnment will be at 10 a.m. on Monday, Feb 27, at Sarasota National Cemetery. Brown & Sons Funeral Homes & Crematory 43rd St Chapel is in charge. www. brownandsonsfuneral.com

Rudolph Spinoza Rudolph “Rudy” Spinoza, 86, passed away on Feb. 16 in Bradenton.

He was a longtime resident of Holmes Beach, a former member of the Artists Guild of Anna Maria Island and loved by many friends, Born in Connecticut, Rudy received his art education in New York City at the School of Visual Art, Pratt Institute and the Art Students League, where he studied portrait painting under Raphael Soyer. Upon completing his studies, Rudy made an extended visit to Wyoming where at the age of 22, he was given commissions to paint the governors of Wyoming and Colorado. Back in New York, he opened a graphic illustration and design studio. Major ad agencies and corporations were among his clients.

As a hobby, Rudy enjoyed making violins, one of which has been played in the New York Philharmonic Orchestra.

He is survived by his wife of 53 years, Rose; two sisters, Gloria Nash and Rita van Autreve; several nieces and nephews; and three cats. He will be missed by all who knew him.

Books galore Shoppers look up as The Sun’s photographer got their attention at the annual Island Branch Library Book Sale. The sale went well, and there was a great selection of reading material, CDs, DVDs and puzzles.

TOM VAUGHT | SUN

44

THE SUN

FUN IN THE SUN

Across 1 On the __: broken 6 Dressed (in) 10 Quail or turkey, e.g.

14 Prefix with economics 15 Impulse 16 "Yeah, sure" 17 Do over 60 in Hawaii, say 18 Upsurge 19 Null and __ 20 Locomotive operators 23 Lao Tzu's "way" 24 Republican org.

25 Singer for the cops?

34 Flower painted by van Gogh 35 Burns with hot liquid 36 Mai __ 37 One who shuns company 39 Many a Monopoly prop.

40 Kick out 42 "Brokeback Mountain" director Lee 43 Snoozing 46 Rank between viscount and marquis 47 Gridiron adjudicator 50 Motor City labor gp.

51 Preacher's msg.

52 What 20-, 25- and 47-Across all are, in one way or another 60 Billiards triangle 61 "Garfield" pooch

62 Paradises 64 Lotion additive 65 __ monster: lizard 66 "Rabbit food" course 67 Remain undecided 68 Staircase part 69 Sporty sunroofs Down 1 Radio choices 2 Completely engrossed 3 Bakery employee 4 Dissertation 5 It has a dozen signs 6 Ice tray unit 7 Scientologist Hubbard 8 Intensely eager 9 Divine-human hybrid 10 Quitting hr. for many 11 Double-reed instrument 12 Flow-altering dam 13 Former Ford models 21 Thumbs-down votes 22 Like Eric or Leif 25 Rice dish 26 Home of the University of Maine Answers to 02-15-17 Crossword Puzzle.

27 Jargon 28 Poker wager-matching response 29 Bellybutton 30 Baseball card rival of Topps 31 On __: rampaging 32 Mother-of-pearl 33 Owner's document 38 Morocco's capital 41 Made heckling remarks to 44 Snooze loudly 45 Mexicali money 48 Like warthogs and walruses 49 Smallest number 52 Rolled-up sandwich 53 In good health 54 Venerated image 55 Proofreader's change 56 Irascibility 57 Jump 58 Move, in Realtorspeak 59 Go off the deep end 63 Vietnam War protest gp.

FEBRUARY 22, 2017

FEBRUARY 22, 2017

classified

ANNOUNCEMENTS

COMPUTER SERVICES

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

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

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

BABY SITTER RED CROSS CERTIFIED baby sitter. Honor student.

Call or text Isabel 941-5457995

BOATS: PARTS & SERVICES & SALES ISLAND BOAT SALESNow's the time. Snowbirds are Here. All Boats Sell. "Business On A Hand Shake" Call Dave/ Owner 941-228-3489 islandboatsales.net

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

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

Reasonable rates. Senior discount. References available. Call 941-9622512 CLEANING: RESIDENTIAL, COMMERCIAL & RENTALS. "Have it done your way, we care about our work" Call 941-7564570 PRESSURE CLEANING and WINDOW WASHING residential, commercial & resorts. Roofs, buildings, houses, driveways.

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

Call us today! 941-778-3986

EMPLOYMENT

LOCAL MAINTENANCE and PEST control company looking for service technician, Must be self-starter, team player, experience helpful but willing to train right person. Call 941 7134673 to schedule interview

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

GARAGE, MOVING, RUMMAGE & YARD SALES ROSER THRIFT SHOP and ANNEX, Open 9:30am.-2 pm Tuesday, Thursday and Friday and 10am. – 1pm. on Saturday. Donations preferred on Wednesdays 9am.

-11pm. 511 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. 941-779-2733.

AMI SANDPIPER WOMEN’S CLUB Garage Sale 2601 Gulf Dr February 25. 8am-2pm. Coffee & Donuts. Lunch Available.

Bake Sale.

FLEA MARKET RADERS REEF parking lot Sunday February 26. 8am-4pm 5508 Marina Dr. Antiques, collectibles, jewelry, furniture, misc. items ANNUAL FLEA MARKET Saturday, February 25. 8am-1pm. Palma Sola Harbor Condos 9400 Cortez Road W. Appliances Furniture, House wares Clothing, Sport equipment, Jewelry, linens, books, bikes, Artwork . Coffee, Donuts & Lunch available.

ANNUAL STREET SALE, Pines Trailer Park next to the Historical Bridge St Pier. Homemade pies, Sloppy Joes, treasures, something for everyone.

Sat, Feb. 25, 8am-2pm and Sun., Feb 26, 9am-1pm.

THE SUN

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.

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE NORMS TOWING gives Notice of Foreclosure of Lien and intent to sell these vehicles on 3/1/2017 9:00am at 1855 63rd Ave E Bradenton FL 34203 pursuant to subsection 713.78 of the Florida Statutes.

NORMS TOWING reserves the right to accept or reject any and/or all bids

SIDEWALK SALE - Palma Sola Thrift Shop. Everything $1. Quality Furniture & Home Décor 50% to 75% off. Selling down store completely. Awesome deals, Come out and see us! 9516 Cortez Rd West. 2 miles past Cortez Bridge in Mount Vernon Plaza. Questions call Carol 941-812-7679

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

LONGBOAT KEY'S Biggest and Best ROYAL RUMMAGE SALE at St. Mary, Star of the Sea Church, 4280 Gulf of Mexico Drive. Friday, March 3, NOON-4 PM, $5 admission. Saturday, March 4, 9AM - 1PM, Free Admission.

BESPOKE SERVICES, MASTER CARPENTER for all home & office repairs. Also painting, decorating, decking & dock repairs,. Large or small works. Reasonable Rates! Island guy for Island work. Call RICHARD 941-448-3571

LOST KAYAK BIMINI BAY Floated away on Sunday nights storm. Tan Feather Lite. Please call 941-7783057

SHEETROCK/DRYWALL REPAIRS install & finish.

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

LOST HEAVY GOLD CHAIN with Blue Stone near 47th Ave in Holmes Beach on December 26. REWARD! Call 908-963-1702

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

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

KERN CONSTRUCTION NEW Homes & Remodel.

Design/Build. Since 1968.

License # CRC1327296.

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

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

EVERYTHING UNDER THE SUN Four families moving sale. Furniture, household, garden goods. 9am-1pm Saturday February 25. No early Birds ( they only get worms). 4105 43rd Ave West Bradenton

HANDYMAN. RETIRED ENGINEER. Free estimates.

“No job too Small”. Repairs, replacements, improvements, wall TV’s, shelves, cabinets, calking etc. Call Jim 941-448-7806

MOVING SALE 9am-3pm Friday, Saturday February 24-25 Antiques, Kitchen, tools, yard, beach. 119 52 St. Holmes Beach

GET’R DONE DRYWALL, INC Specializing in Remodels & Repairs. Island Resident for 18 years. Call Neil Cell 941-962-1194

LANDSCAPING & LAWN CARE

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

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

2000 Saturn Vin 1G8ZR12791Z224016 1998 Saturn Vin 1G8k5274WZ260389

LOST & FOUND

LOST ENVELOPE WITH Money in it. Border of Holmes Beach & Bradenton Beach. REWARD 361-9440167

LOST MY GRANDMOTHER'S gold wedding band (initials inside and date) at Coquina Beach area. Reward.

Call 407-579-1621 LOST TENNIS BRACELET Gold with Diamonds around. Near Dog Park or Publix. REWARD! Call 941778-2494

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

MOVING & STORAGE

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

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

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

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

45

“WIZARD OF WALLS” Established 1980 Prompt quality service.

Paperhanging/removal Faux finishes. Interior painting. Mary Bell 941794-0455 BAYSIDE COMMERCIAL PAINTING. David Padyani Call 941-565-9446 or Larry Zimmer 941-2248123 Licensed & Insured PROFESSIONAL PAINTING SERVICES. Prompt & Reliable. Meticulous, Thorough, Quality Workmanship. Interior/Exterior. Wall paper removal..

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

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

Great References. Call Mary 941-405-2496 EXPERIENCED PETSITTER. LOVING care in home pet sitting. Reliable older woman will provide love to your babies while you are away..

References provided.

Call 423-483-8059

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

46

THE SUN

classified

REAL ESTATE HOMES & CONDOS FOR SALE LOOKING FOR A highly motivated real estate broker to buy or sell your next home? Darcie Duncan, Broker Duncan Real Estate a lifelong island resident bringing success to her customers for 26 years. Proven track record brings you results! 941-725-1589 STARTING FROM THE UPPER 200’s. Only minutes from the beach, this new active adult community is perfectly located just south of Manatee Ave, off Village Green Pkwy. Perfectly designed, open 2BR or 3BR/2BA plus den & 2CG floor plans. Luxurious amenities, pool, spa, gym, pickle ball and fenced-in dog park. HOA only $190/month. Models open daily. {Contact us 941-254-3330} www.MirabellaFlorida.com 106 WILLOW RENOVATED Cottage. 1 in from Beach, beautiful pool/spa. Lush landscaping $1,197,000.

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

PERICO ISLAND GREAT WATER views ground floor condo 2BR/2BA, plantation shutters, new tile, new kitchen, granite, stainless appliances, crown molding, sunroom, Sharon Hightower Re/Max Alliance Group 941-330-5054. $307,900.

CANAL FRONT BAY VIEW 3BR/3BA dock & lift, 2 car garage W. Bradenton CONDO 2,376 sq.ft.

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

Call us today! 941-778-3986

SPECTACULAR BAY VIEWS! This spacious home sits on an estate sized lot. Pool, boating, privacy - Life is good! $1,489,000. Wagner Realty, Karen Day Fineout 941-518-3682 SAN REMO SHORES Deep Water Canal 2BR/2BA/1.5, Pool, Wet Bar, $439,000 Call 941-932-0701 LONGBOAT HARBOUR CANAL FRONT Condo 1BR/1BA sleeps 6. New kitchen, wood floors, sold furnished, gated community, beach to bay complex. 4 pools, kayak launch, bike storage. Must see Sharon Hightower Re/Max Alliance Group 941-3305054. $249,900.

FOR SALE THE PORCH HOUSE Adorable old Florida pool home two blocks to Beach via White Ave Anna Maria . 2BR/2BA pool . Property very high dry no flooding! Fenced yard. &599,900 Brenda Boyd May Broker/Owner 941-730-8589

RENTALS: ANNUAL ANNUAL RENTALS WANTED ! We have well qualified tenants for beach and mainland annual rentals, Full management or Finders fee.

Call today for details. 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. W BRADENTON, POINTE WEST: 2BR/2BA ground floor villa w/carport, screen patio & full laundry. Comm. pool, cable & water incl. in $1150 rent.

First, last, sec. & credit check req.. Call Island Real Estate at 941-778-6066 ANNUAL RENTAL HOLMES BEACH 2BR/2BA with office/ laundry room, deck, storage room. $1650/mo Small & medium pets accepted. Call 941-704-4591

AMISUN.COM

RENTALS: SEASONAL & VACATION TIFFANY PLACE Gulf Front Condo for Rent Incredible views from living room and master bedroom. 2BR/2BA Green Real Estate Call 941-778-0455

ANNA MARIA ISLAND, Fl Condos. Pool beach access, fully equipped $650-$800/ wk Redekercondos.com 941-704-7525 or 941-7781915 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!

FEBRUARY 22, 2017

SEASONAL RENTALS AVAILABLE: March, April,& May June. HOLMES BEACH: 2BR/1BA ground level.

Block to Gulf. ANNA MARIA (monthly minimum): 2BR/2BA & 2BR/1BA Both ground level and Close to Beach. 2BR/1BA Gulf Front. Second story. Horizon Realty of Anna Maria 941-778-0426 kringco@ tampabay.rr.com WEST COAST TREASURE 3BR/2BA fully furnished home. Available now!

NW Bradenton (Palma Sola). 4 miles from Beach. Nightly/Weekly/ Monthly. Reasonable Rental Rates. Call 941201-2190 GULF DRIVE BRADENTON BEACH 2BR/1BA full kitchen ground floor. Direct TV, porch 75 steps from beach.

Beautiful. Available March – May. 90 day minimum Call 813-917-5270 HOLMES BEACH RUNAWAY BAY Condo.

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

Available Now! Call 941779-1043

LAST MINUTE CANCELLATION February: 5BR/5BA GULF FRONT HOME in Anna Maria $3200 per week. MARCH: 2BR/1BA Apartment, one house from beach $2200/mo.

2BR/2BA Canal Front Villa with Boat dock in Holmes Beach $2200/ mo. 2BR/2BA Sunbow Bay Condo, pool & tennis $3200/mo. 3BR/3BA Canal Front Home in Anna Maria heated pool & spa $2000/ weekly. Call Green Real Estate 941-778-0455 www. greenreal.com NORTH SHORE DRIVE, Anna Maria. 3BR/2BA Seasonal Rental across the street from Gulf.

Heated Pool.

AMIRENTAL.com

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

Call 800-301-4816. amitaxi4u@gmail.com, www. amitaxi.com ANYTIME TRANSPORTATION to all airports, appointments, casino, cruises, etc. Tampa $60. Sarasota $30. Pets welcome. Very dependable. Reasonable rates. Contact Jeanne.

941-779-5095

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

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

www.amisun.com

FEBRUARY 22, 2017

business & service directory computer service

home improvement

home improvement

THE SUN

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

painting

transportation HOME SITTING / PET SITTING

HOME SERVICES

47

48

THE SUN

www.amisun.com

FEBRUARY 22, 2017