Anna Maria Island Sun February 3, 2016

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VOL 16 No. 14

February 3, 2016

Fever winner

TOM VAUGHT | SUN

And The Sun’s Football Fever Contest winner is ... Jay Disbrow, who is holding the basket of goodies in the center of the photo. With Disbrow are the representatives of businesses that donated prizes to the contest. From left to right: Sun Advertising Director Chantelle Lewin; Justin Gargett, from AMI Sports Zone; Chuck Williams, from Budweiser; Island Time owner Bill Herlihy; Disbrow; Brenda Canning, from Island Fitness; Shannon Dummar, from the Bridge Tender Inn; and Travis Rankin, from Bridge Street Jewelers. Not pictured are Victoria Sweeney, of Island Scooter Rental; Steve Rosehelm, from Bortell’s; Bob Slicker, from Swordfish Grill and Flippin’ Mullet; and Chris Smargasso, from Slim’s Place. For more information, see Page 41.

Commission approves parking permit ordinance ...

The vote was 3/2 with Chair Judy Titsworth and Commissioner Pat Morton dissenting.

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

HOLMES BEACH – After hearing from residents, the City Commission last week approved an ordinance to establish a test zone where parking on the rights

INSIDE NEWS OPINION Sun survey outdoors Police reports town crier real estate sports

4 6 7 26-27 29 31 36-41 42

of way would be banned between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. except for residents with permits.

The zone includes streets located in the area between S.R. 64 (Manatee Avenue) and 52nd Street west of S.R. 789 (Gulf Drive); from Manatee Avenue north to 43rd Street (east of Gulf Drive); from 74th Street to 81st Street west of Palm Avenue and all of Aqua Lane and Neptune Lane.

Prior to passage, Commissioner Jean Peelen said the ordinance was

a preview of the Cortez Commercial Fishing Festival. 3 check out

Anna Maria Island, Florida

... but mayor counters with veto

not clear on what kind of ID is required for a permit. After some discussion, commissioners agreed on “vehicle registration or other form of proof” of property ownership.

Commissioners’ thoughts

Peelen said any resident can get a permit under the ordinance and stressed, “I really resent the whole elitist argument. If we are

The mayor was required to give reasons for his disapproval.

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

HOLMES BEACH – On Friday, Mayor Bob Johnson invoked his right under the city charter to veto the parking permit ordinance, which was approved by the City Commission on Jan. 26.

According to the charter, the mayor has 10 days to approve or disapprove an ordinance. If he/she disapproves, it shall be returned to the commission

see parking, page 40

see veto, page 40

LONG BAR POINT DEVELOPERS

APPEAL COURT RULING. 17

OFFICER Rob Velardi is happy to be back on the beat. 20

The Island’s award-winning weekly newspaper

www.amisun.com

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FEBRUARY 3, 2016

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Fishing festival on the horizon With this year’s theme, “It takes a fishing village,” Cortezians are pulling together to get ready for the 34th Annual Cortez Commercial Fishing Festival, set for the weekend of Feb. 13-14 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. in the historic fishing village.

Local bands will play on two stages for seafood-loving, art-appreciating festivalgoers.

Explore working commercial fishing docks, enjoy the breeze off Sarasota Bay and sample the history of the village at the Florida Maritime Museum.

Visit marine life exhibits and hear educational talks about commercial fishing as white pelicans from Canada and local brown pelicans dive for their dinner in the bay.

A giant food court will make getting dinner easy for festivalgoers; count on locally-caught grouper and stone crab, and tasty menu items for landlubbers, too.

More than 50 artists will exhibit nautical and environ-

mental artwork in celebration of the village’s maritime heritage, and kids will enjoy an expanded children’s play area.

Admission is $3, with children under 12 admitted free.

Proceeds benefit FISH, the Florida Institute for Saltwater Heritage, to restore and expand the 95-acre FISH Preserve east of Cortez village.

To find the festival, head west toward the beaches on Cortez Road to the entrance at the Florida Maritime Museum, 4415 119th St. W.; pay parking is available in the village west of the festival grounds.

Free offsite parking is available at G.T Bray Park, 5502 33rd Ave. Drive W., Bradenton (turn east off 59th

FILE PHOTO

Let yourself be lured to the Cortez Commercial Fishing Festival with seafood, live music, art and more.

Street onto 33rd Avenue Drive) or at Coquina Beach on Anna Maria Island, with a

shuttle bus to Cortez ($2.50 round trip). Free parking is also available east of the

village off Cortez Road at the FISH Preserve, a five-minute walk from the gate.

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THE SUN

ISLAND NEWS

in brief

Water pressure may drop On the heels of a water outage in the northern portion of the Island, the Manatee County Utilities Department is warning residents of the Island that the department will be working to identify under-performing valves in the system. Unfortunately, this will result in turning off water service for short periods of time.

According to a news release, residents may experience low water pressure during testing. There will be no water line breaks, so residents will not need to boil water after the pressure returns. If residents have any questions they may call 941-792-8811, ext. 5268, between 7 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. or 941-747-HELP (747-4357) after 4:30 p.m. or on weekends.

Beach luau set for Feb. 6 The Center’s beach luau will be held on Saturday, Feb. 6, from 6 to 10 p.m. at the Sandbar Pavilion, 100 Spring Ave., Anna Maria. It will include hula and fire dancers, a roasted pig and Hawaiian cuisine and drinks for $100 per person or $150 per couple.

For information, contact Wende Webb at 778-1908, ext.

9203 or wendew@centerami.org.

Historical society luncheon Feb. 17 The Anna Maria Island Historical Society will hold it’s annual members’ luncheon on Wednesday, Feb. 17, at The Studio at Gulf and Pine, 10101 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria, at noon. Guests and prospective members are welcome.

The featured speaker will be Kathryn Rohlwing, who will explain how she created the Society’s brochure, “The Walking Tour of Historical Anna Maria.” Members and guests who attend the luncheon will receive a copy of the brochure, and there will be a raffle of assorted pine needle baskets from the museum’s collection.

The menu includes a farm to table selection and the cost is $20 for members and $25 for non-members.

RSVP to Susan Anderson at 407 415 2678 by Feb. 16 or pay at the door.

This also is the annual membership renewal. A single membership is $20, a family membership is $30 and a benefactor membership is $100. The benefactor membership includes membership in NARM, the North America Reciprocal Museum Association, which entitles members to free admission to over 700 museums in North America.

FEBRUARY 3, 2016

Oil rig debris being mapped

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

Three pieces of debris from an oil rig discovered on Anna Maria Island’s beaches and offshore from the Island in the Gulf of Mexico are among 60 found so far from Texas to North Carolina that are being mapped by the Sarasota-based Sea to Shore Alliance.

The vibration suppressor panels or tendon strake sheaths, which are wrapped around pipes descending from oil rigs into the Gulf to minimize their movement in currents, were documented last August and September in The Sun, which was contacted to provide the locations of the objects for the map.

One half-inch thick, four-byfour-foot piece of black plastic washed up last August near Angelino’s Sea Lodge in Holmes Beach, and another washed up in front of Katie Pierola Park in Bradenton Beach, while a floating piece was discovered by fisherman Anthony Manali in about 85 feet of water off Anna Maria Island.

The debris is likely from 2015 damage to a Chevron oil rig, not the Deepwater Horizon oil rig disaster in 2010, because the objects do not have much barnacle or algae growth on them, said Katelyn Cucinotta, a conservation biologist with the Alliance, adding that the map may be used to hold Chevron responsible for cleanup.

California-based Chevron Corp. released a statement that

SUN file photo

If you see an object like this on the beach or in the water (it may also be yellow or green), text Katelyn Cucinotta of the Sea to Shore Alliance with its location, GPS if possible, and photos at 561-635-4622. its Big Foot oil platform in the Gulf sustained damage last May to its subsea tendons. The tendons, used to connect the platform to the sea floor, were not yet installed, and no oil was spilled because the well was not yet in production, according to Chevron, which hired SWS Environmental Services to clean up the objects last summer from Anna Maria Island and other beaches.

Turtle groups, including Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and the University of Florida’s Archie Carr Center for Sea Turtle Research, are concerned because turtles sometimes eat small pieces of plastic debris, according to Blair Witherington, a senior sea turtle biologist whose crew found between 30 and 40 of the panels floating in the Gulf about 45 miles off-

shore of Mississippi. Comments on Witherington’s facebook page claim the debris has been discovered on more than a dozen beaches in Florida.

The Alliance has no funds to seek out the objects and is relying on mariners and beachgoers to report them.

“It’s citizen science,” Cucinotta said, with scientists verifying and documenting the information for the map.

The strakes are black, yellow and green, with code numbers imprinted on them identifying whether they belong to Chevron, she said.

If you see one on the beach or in the water, text Cucinotta with its location, GPS if possible, an overall photo and a close-up photo of the code at 561-635-4622.

Marine debris reduction plan in works

Mayor recommends library board rep In consensus, Holmes Beach city commissioners agreed with Mayor Bob Johnson’s recommendation of the appointment of Mary Pat Swamy as the Island representative to the Manatee County Library Board of Trustees.

Johnson said, “ … her service on the board of the Friends (Friends of the Island Branch Library) was characterized as that of an enthusiastic, giving, cooperative, team building contributor/leader” and that she “would be a refreshing, positive asset to the board … ” The final decision will be made by Manatee County Commissioners.

Visit our website, www.amisun.com.

Scan this code with your smartphone to go there.

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

A state-by-state effort to reduce marine debris is gaining steam, and the Florida group met last week to continue working on its plan at Mote Marine Laboratory in Sarasota.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has tasked states to de-

velop individual plans to reduce marine debris. The Florida draft plan may be published as soon as this summer.

“One thing we have to do is work with the tourist industry,” said Kim Bassos-Hull, senior biologist at Mote Marine Laboratory, and co-chair of the wildlife and habitat impact group, one of five committees that make up the Florida group.

The other four committees will focus on abandoned and derelict vessels, consumer debris, derelict fishing gear, including crab traps caught and cut loose by fishermen, and emergency response.

Group members are doing research that could become the basis for education campaigns and regulations, she said.

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FEBRUARY 3, 2016

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Center presents update on progress Officials seek more support from community members to join The Center and participate in programs.

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

ANNA MARIA – Community center officials presented an update on their progress and accomplishments at last week’s town hall meeting, but also did not hide the fact that they have no cash reserves.

“The operating results show that we are getting this thing on the right track, but not fast enough. We have no cash reserves, and that is occupying our attention right now,” Treasurer Jim Froeschle told the group.

“But we know in the longer term, with the plan we put in place, we’ll be in a solid financial position. I feel good about where we’re going.”

Board Chair Bill Shuman said, “We’re making progress, but we have challenges. Financial is one of them, but we’re moving forward with increased sponsorships, more grants and programs being well attended.

We need your continued support.”

Executive Director Kristen Lessig said The Center’s mission is to be “a gathering place for the community to come together and make friends.”

She outlined promises the The Center has made to the community and examples of how those are being filled.

Promises to the community

There are tremendous hurdles ahead, but you have the right team in place to make this happen.”

Dan Murphy Anna Maria mayor

• To create a family friendly atmosphere that is fun, safe and social.

Examples include the first Thanksgiving gathering, Lester Family Fun Day and Spirit Day. • To provide healthy lifestyle programs. Examples include the new fitness area and classes, the Dragon Boat program, pickleball, tennis and healthy selections offered in the kitchen.

Tennis player Mark Swift praised Center officials for working with the tennis group to bring it back to The Center and said, “We really enjoy The Center and other activities it has to offer. I want to thank the board because they worked with us to get the group back.

“The courts are beautiful and a

special thanks to Rex Hagen for getting them redone. Everyone is happy to be back.”

• To provide experiences that are welcoming and stimulating. Examples include the soiree room and various activities.

Sissy Quinn, who facilitates the soiree room, said, “Come and enjoy two hours of neighbors. Thanks to all the support from the people who work here.”

• To be a socially responsible member of the community. Examples include hosting the Chamber’s Business Expo and ringing the bell for the Salvation Army.

“We have a ways to go,” Lessing said. “We’re working on our customer service. We want to be consistent

with our message and marketing.”

She said The Center is launching new programs that people have asked for such as parenting classes and drop in childcare.

Financial report

Froeschle said in 2014, The Center was in a major financial crisis, and the current board stepped in “to bring it back. We were pretty much in free fall. We were $200,000 in debt and had to do something and do it quickly.

“There was major fund raising by the board. Kristin brought energy, management and discipline and did an incredible job. We turned the big

We’re here to serve you!

Now with two Manatee County locations!

Headquarters: 555 6th Ave. W Bradenton, FL 34205

Island Office: 3018 Ave. C Holmes Beach, FL 34217

Simply Better.

see center, page 11

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OPINION

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

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FEBRUARY 3, 2016

EDITORIAL A good move

C

ongratulations to Holmes Beach Mayor Bob Johnson for his recent veto of the city's permit parking plan ordinance. The proposal was passed last week in a 3-2 vote of the city commission, an action Johnson said in advance that he would veto.

True to his word, Johnson halted this ill-advised proposal dead in its tracks, before it could ever be implemented, the first such veto action by a mayor in as many years as anyone can remember.

The move will not win him much support among the few residents pushing the permit parking idea.

But it was one that needed to be made.

The plan was supposed to provide relief to residents who claimed their streets and yards were being overrun with cars parked by people going to the beaches. The masses of visitors parking in the rights of way have left trash, blocked driveways, obstructed streets and basically made life miserable for homeowners who happen to live in those areas, according to supporters of the parking plan.

The question here, though, is how often has this situation occurred? The answer, according to the mayor and city law enforcement, is very infrequently.

And certainly not often enough to impose restrictions allowing only residents to park in the areas designated by the parking ordinance.

That is an over-reaction and sends the wrong message out to the rest of the Island and the rest of the county. The notion that "strangers" should not be allowed to park on streets close to the beach is just onerous. Even residents who live in the affected areas are opposed to this plan and have written the city, asking to opt out of the ordinance.

Enforcement of existing parking regulations seems a far more workable solution. If driveways or streets are being blocked by beachgoers' cars then those cars should be ticketed and towed.

Increased code enforcement, such as is being done in Anna Maria, perhaps can address problems of trashed lawns and other code violations.

The beaches belong to, and are paid for by, all of us. Restricting access to them to only those who live here is not the answer.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR No exceptions I knew this was going to occur.

I just didn’t expect the question to come up even before the final vote for passage of the permit parking regulation was taken last Tuesday evening at the Holmes Beach City Commission meeting.

The question? Will parents attending elementary school functions be ticketed if they are parked in a parking permit restricted area? And the Holmes Beach police chief’s answer, I believe, was basically, yes. He can’t ask his patrol officers to make the determination of the whereabouts of the owner of the offending vehicle. And that shouldn’t even matter. Regulations are regulations and to be fair there should be no exceptions.

The congestion committee arguing to control the parking on their streets must accept in totality the restrictions they sought. Some of those opposed to the parking permit restrictions have asked, “What if I’m having a party?” and have been told just call the police and let them know and they won’t ticket anyone. How are the police supposed to know if it’s a person attending the party or someone who saw a line of cars parked along the street, parked there too and then walked to the beach. Selec-

tive enforcement of regulations and restrictions is a very slippery slope.

Nope, anyone parked in a parking permit restricted area must receive a ticket. No exceptions.

Michael Storms Holmes Beach

Thanks for the article May I add my thanks to the article about William Bahrt of Fogartyville. I am responding to the letter from his great-granddaughter, Debra. Records show William’s bride was Luddie Garner and the wedding was in the John Fogarty home. In fact, Captain John Fogarty adopted her and her brother, Owen Garner, after the death of their father, Captain Elijah Garner..

This was after the death of their mother, Hope Jane Foreman Adams Garner. Hope is also the mother of my grandmother, Sallie Adams Fulford. Sallie’s father, William Adams, died when she was 10 years old. She also had a brother, Alex Adams. Captain Garner brought his family to Perico Island, where Hope’s uncle, William Foreman, lived. Hope was suffering from Tuberculosis. There were no drugs and sunshine was recommended treatment. Forget the mosquitoes in Florida and the Malaria they

Take The Sun Survey on Page 7. spread.

After her death about 1886, Sallie tried to take care of the family. The father had asked Captain Fogarty to take care of his children.

After his death, Sallie married my grandfather, William Thomas Fulford, in 1888. They moved to Cortez in 1889 into the first house built in the village. She was the first bride in Cortez. I have a picture of our great-grandmother Hope.

I would like to share it with my newly found cousin, Debra. I Look forward to meeting her Mary Fulford Green Cortez

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 make your opinion known.

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. If you prefer the oldfashioned way 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.

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FEBRUARY 3, 2016

THE SUN

the sun survey

on the agenda

PREVIOUS QUESTION: What do you think about the county changing Manatee Public Beach to 'Manatee Beach Park?

Anna Maria

20%

It makes the beaches and parks sound the same, which is bad.

31%

I think they should keep the old names to preserve history.

10005 Gulf Drive

2/11: City Commission work session and meeting, 6 p.m.

For information, call 7086130.

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hearing on land development code, 5:01 p.m.

For information, call 7781005.

Holmes Beach 5801 Marina Drive

Bradenton Beach 107 Gulf Drive N

2/3: Pier Team, 10 a.m.

2/4: City Commission meeting, 6 p.m.

2/9: City Commission work session, 1 p.m.

2/10: Scenic WAVES, 3 p.m.

2/11: Department head meeting, 1 p.m.

2/11: City Commission public

2/3: Parks and Beautification Advisory Board meeting followed by work session, 10 a.m.

2/9: City Commission meeting, 7 p.m., 2/11: City Commission work session, 7 p.m.

For information, call 7085800.

mark your calendar Note: Events are free unless indicated.

Wednesday Feb. 3

0%

49%

It makes the beaches and parks sound the same, which is good.

THIS WEEK’S SURVEY What do you think of Holmes Beach Mayor Bob Johnson vetoing the new parking plan?

When did this happen?

• It took a lot of guts and was the right thing to do.

• It was unnecessary and will hurt the residents the new ordinance was designed to help.

• It needs to be accompanied by strict enforcement of the existing parking laws.

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

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

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

Tom Vaught Joe Hendricks

Ad assistant Chris Boniberger

Accounting John Reitz

Columnists Louise Bolger

Classified ads Bob Alexander

Outdoors editor Rusty Chinnis

Graphics Elaine Stroili Ricardo Fonseca

Distribution Bob Alexander Keith Isner Tony McNulty

Ad director Chantelle Lewin

Web Jocelyn V. Greene

Contributors Steve Borggren Tom Breiter Monica Simpson Ray Hansen

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

Lifelong Learning Academy discussions, The Center of AMI, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria, 11 a.m.

Chair yoga, Anna Maria Island Art League, 5312 Holmes Blvd., Holmes Beach, noon to 12:45 p.m. $10.

Register to ArtLeagueAMI@ gmail.com or 941-778-2099.

Gulf Coast Writers group, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 1 p.m.

Ceili dancing, Sandpiper Mobile Resort, 2601 Gulf Drive, Bradenton Beach, 1 to 3 p.m.

AMI Community Connections gathering of friends, AMI Community Center, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria, 2 p.m.

Library catalog training, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 3 p.m.

Book and Craft Club for ages 8 -12, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 6 p.m.

Thursday Feb. 4

Aerobics for Seniors, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, 11 a.m.

Friends’ Travel and Lecture Series features beekeeper Kevin Lausman, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2 p.m.

Bingo, Annie Silver Community Center, 103 23rd St.

N., Bradenton Beach, 7 to 9 p.m. Refreshments available for purchase.

Friday Feb. 5

Forty Carrots program for babies and children to age 5, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m.

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

Saturday Feb. 6

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

Art demonstration with Brenda Alcorn on gyotaku (fish printing), Island Gallery West, 5368 Gulf Drive in S & S Shopping Plaza, Holmes Beach, 10:30 a.m. to noon.

Be my Valentine crafts for families, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2 p.m.

Sunday Feb. 7

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

Bridge Street Market, Bradenton Beach, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Monday Feb. 8

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

Chair yoga, Anna Maria Island Art League, 5312 Holmes Blvd., Holmes Beach, see CALENDAR, page 30

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THE SUN

FEBRUARY 3, 2016

Vacation rental ordinance evolves Commissioners restored a provision to allow grandfathering for non-conformities.

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

HOLMES BEACH – City commissioners once again tweaked their vacation rental ordinance and agreed to restore a section they removed last year to allow grandfathering for non-conformities.

Several residents aired complaints about the ordinance including the lack of grandfathering and the fact that motels must meet much stricter regulations.

David Zaccagnino said older rentals couldn’t comply with all the regulations, especially within a year.

Human Services Analyst Mary Buonagura said the language regarding non-conformities was restored to the ordinance, which would enable the city to establish a database to identify them and protect them from being subject to new regulations.

Petruff said she is happy that provision was restored, but cautioned commissioners to distinguish between existing houses with legal non-conformities and exist-

ing houses that may be converted in the future.

“The difference is that you try not to create more non-conformities and try to bring properties more into compliance,” she explained and added that it would involve requirements for landscaping, parking, fencing and the like.

Motels vs. vacation rentals

Jeff Gerry, of the White Sands Resort, said motel owners must comply with many regulations regarding pools, fences, ADA and the like, but residential rentals do not.

He said homes designed just to be rentals should be considered commercial pieces of property and be regulated like motels.

Ken Gerry, of the White Sands added, “Some of these houses can hold more people than we can have in our motel. The argument for us is if you haven’t lived in it and you bought it to rent it, it’s commercial.”

City Attorney Patricia Petruff said that the court “doesn’t see it that way” and that some judges have recognized that “a long tradition of renting is a right of ownership.”

Scott Boyd said he thought the ordinance was a fair balance for all and noted, “Motels are regulated by the state and are

public housing units. Florida Statute delineates a difference between motels and vacation rentals.”

“The problem with this Wild West mentality is that we have an anything goes (attitude). People say, ‘I’m paying $2,000 or $3,000 so I can do what I want,’” Barbara Hines said.

“We used to have people who understood they were in a residential neighborhood and respected it. Here we don’t have that. People who don’t have any vested interest except making money are driving us out.”

Commissioner Pat Morton agreed with the Gerry brothers and said, “We should not allow this to go on in our residential districts. It puts a burden on the motels.”

Other provisions

Chair Judy Titsworth said she wants a provision to require rental signs to be set back from the street as in Anna Maria, and the consensus was to add that to the ordinance.

Petruff said they should not rely solely on the property appraiser’s office to establish maximum occupancy.

There was some discussion about repeat violations.

Buonagura said there are re-inspection

fees and penalties for violations, and Code Enforcement Officer James Thomas said repeat offenders shall appear before a special magistrate.

Petruff said they also could add another level of violation, and Mayor Bob Johnson said they could tie the violations to a certain period of time.

Building Official Jim McGuinness said the definition of a bedroom that is in the ordinance, which includes a closet, is different from the one in the land development code (LDC), which does not include a closet.

Petruff said the definition is from the city’s building code, section 14-02, which was done later than the one in the LDC, and added, “It is one we are using for construction purposes.”

McGuinness said the definition in the Florida Building Code does not include a closet, and Petruff responded, “Our current rules require a closet.”

Titsworth said staff would look at the definitions.

Commissioner Carol Soustek asked if someone asks for information about renting would they pay a fee, and Thomas said he would have information on the city’s Website and in handouts. Buonagura said there would be community education after the ordinance goes into effect.

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FEBRUARY 3, 2016

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Quilt raffle tickets on sale From left, Eyeland Needlers Mary Lewis, Mary Jo Gaspari, Pat Russell, Penny Reinholz, Dru Clody, Joani Pettigrew.

Jane Coleman, Marcia Powers, Debby Magnin and, not pictured, Judy Bennett, Dolores Harrell and Ann Horne, made the Tour of Homes quilt. Tickets to win the quilt are on sale at The Center of Anna Maria Island, 408 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria, for $1 each or six for $5.

The quilt drawing will be held on Saturday, March 19, at the Tour of Homes.

The Center | submitted

Networking Denise Crownover and Kandy Kerekes, of Duncan Real Estate, set the mood for a tropical lifestyle in their booth at the Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce Business Connection and Development Expo held at The Center on Wednesday, Jan. 20.

Chamber President Deb Wing said those who attended appreciated the speakers and attendees got the opportunity to mingle afterward. She said they would hold another expo next January.

TOM VAUGHT | SUN

February Is Heart Disease Awareness Month A Family’s Testimonial

“My wife, Trudy won a heart score certificate from MDC at the Manatee Chamber Retreat.

I decided to take the test and much to our surprise; the “widow maker” was discovered. This resulted in immediate open heart surgery saving my life! It was a shocking find and we would recommend this scan to everyone!”

Quick & Easy Heart Score Tests

Just $5000

Good Through February 28, 2016 No Prescription Required Please Notify Your Physician If You Have This Procedure

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Awarded Breast Imaging Center of Excellence

ACR Accredited

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Bradenton • 300 Riverside Dr. E.

www.manateediagnostic.com

Angus W. Graham, Jr., MD James R. Chatham, MD Stephen D. Johnston, MD Charles J. Cassady, MD Nancy M. Wilson MD Medical Director Assistant Medical Director Radiologistt Radiologist Radiologist

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FEBRUARY 3, 2016

Pier bait sales questioned A pier tenant is willing to sell bait, but not if a competitor is allowed to continue his own pier-based operations.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

BRADENTON BEACH – Pier subtenant Sherman Baldwin is seeking the city’s assistance in regard to John Maguire’s ongoing efforts to sell bait from the city-owned day dock adjacent to the Historic Bridge Street Pier.

Maguire, a Cortez resident, has been selling bait on and around the pier since early 2015, when the city’s renovated fishing pier reopened. He began his operations using the land-based bait well formerly used by the previous pier tenants that operated the Rusty Anchor bait shop as an extension of the Cast-n-Cage restaurant.

After the restaurant closed, Maguire continued selling bait from that location, which many people, including some city commissioners, felt provided a needed service to pier users.

In recent months, he has taken to selling his bait from two small vessels moored to the end of the day dock.

On multiple occasions, Maguire has told

joe hendricks | sun

This mobile bait sales operation run by John Maguire is supposed to cease its pier-based activities when a pier subtenant begins selling bait. city officials he feels he is the person most qualified person to sell bait on the pier.

Police Chief Sam Speciale serves as the chair of the city’s Pier Team Advisory Board. He has been lenient in allowing Maguire to continue selling bait, with the understanding that he would stop when Baldwin is ready to commence with his own bait sales.

Maguire does not pay the city for this temporary privilege, nor is he allowed to accept payment while standing on the day

dock or pier. On at least two occasions, Maguire’s small vessels have sunk during storms, including once last month.

As part of his sublease agreement with AMOB President John Horne, Baldwin has the right to sell bait from his newly-opened Paradise Boat Tours Activity Center, and Horne’s lease with the city includes a nocompete clause that applies to Baldwin’s business operations.

On Monday, Jan. 25, Baldwin sent an e-mail to the mayor, city commission and

Speciale detailing his concerns about moving forward with his own bait sales.

“I stand ready to install a bait tank in the front of my ticket office. It will take approximately five business days to be up and running. However, due to the controversy surrounding Mr. Maguire’s bait business on the pier, I am reluctant to move forward.

Many will see it as my fault that Mr. Maguire is being forced to move off the pier.

Accordingly, I am understandably worried about looking like the bad guy to the community,” Baldwin wrote.

“That being said, I think that it is fair to ask the city to once and for all either compel John to move on, or to let him know you are not gonna stop him from selling bait from the pier. I think it is reasonable to ask that I not have the heavy hand in this matter. My position is one of asking for clarity from the city, and I feel that I cannot take a public position on this issue either way,” he concluded.

On Friday, Baldwin said he had not yet received a response from the city. He said he planned to address this matter at the Wednesday, Feb. 3, Pier Team meeting, and again at the Feb. 4, City Commission meeting if needed. Baldwin also has a business sign permit application that will be discussed at Thursday’s commission meeting.

FEBRUARY 3, 2016

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CENTER: Update on progress presented to community FROM PAGE 5

ship around, which was like turning the Queen Mary.”

He said The Center expanded programs by 37 percent without adding staff, asked for more funding from the Island cities, did a grant search and restructured membership fees.

“On the negative side, the cash is still going out the door because of the debt service. We’re looking at an outflow of over $100,000.

“We have exhausted our cash reserves, but we have made a lot of progress moving to financial stability. The staff has a clear view of what they’re going to do going forward.”

Lessig added that they have looked at every opportunity to reduce their staffing, and Froeschle said labor costs are below last year.

“Now we need to bring in more people,” Froeschle said. “There are people in the community who haven’t given us a chance.”

Questions

One resident asked about the debt service, and Froeschle said the loan on the building is down from $1.45 million to $1.1 million. The principal payment is $40,000 per year and the interest is $60,000 per year.

Another asked about outside funding, and Froeschle said it receives money from the cities of Anna Maria and Holmes Beach, but noted, “Most community centers get about 30

Variance request withdrawn The owners of The Waterfront Restaurant in Anna Maria have withdrawn their request for a 20-foot side yard variance that would have allowed for the replacement and expansion of an existing patio awning along Spring Avenue.

Written correspondence restaurant owner Jason Suzor sent City Planner Alan Garrett on Jan. 26, said, “Please withdraw our variance request from your scheduling. We will not be going forward with this request at this point and time.”

The City Commission was scheduled to hear the variance request on Thursday, Jan. 28. The Planning and Zoning Board previously reviewed the request and recommended commission approval, despite some concerns about the proposed awning being two feet wider than the existing awning.

We have exhausted our cash reserves, but we have made a lot of progress moving to financial stability."

Jim Froeschle Center treasurer percent from government, but we get 4 percent. We try to work with the cities and see what they can do in their budgets.”

Anna Maria Mayor Dan Murphy said the city totally supports the Center and its contribution includes the land and building. It also doubled its monetary donation this year.

“We want to see it succeed,” he said. “I meet with Bill, Kristen and Jim on a regular basis on what we can do to make this work, to be successful. There are tremendous hurdles ahead, but you have the right team in place to make this happen.

The city will give you whatever support you need.”

Golf for God Join Roser Community Church for Golfing for God on Wednesday, Feb. 24, and Wednesday, March 2, at the Bradenton Country Club, 4646 Ninth Ave. W., Bradenton, for a nine-hole scramble for all levels of golfers or a one-hour golf clinic, plus a buffet dinner and Bible study.

Golf begins at 3 p.m., tee off is 3:15 p.m., the golf clinic begins at 4 p.m. and the buffet and Bible study begin at 5:30 p.m.

The cost for golf, buffet and Bible study is $40; for the golf clinic, buffet and Bible study, $45; and for the buffet and Bible study only, $25 (Cost includes coffee/tea, tax, gratuity and use of the room for Bible study). Bring a check payable to Bradenton Country Club.

Proper golf attire is required (golf shirt with collar, no jeans).

Register in the church narthex or online at www.roserchurch.com/getinvolved/Golfing-for-God. For more information, call Betsy at 941-685-7921 or Mary at 941-713-5555.

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FEBRUARY 3, 2016

Commissioner seeks policies clarification A commission work meeting has been scheduled for Feb. 23.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

BRADENTON BEACH –Commissioner Ralph Cole has requested a work meeting to review the policies and procedures pertaining to the mayor and City Commission’s governing procedures.

The agenda item request form Cole submitted for the Jan. 21 commission meeting sought a motion to set a work meeting to discuss, review and adopt policies and procedures; to authorize the city attorney and clerk to attend the work meeting and to direct the clerk to provide the commission copies of existing operating rules and procedures for the commission.

During the Jan. 21 meeting, commission joe hendricks | sun consensus was reached in regard to the Commissioner Ralph Cole wants the commission and staff to more clearly delineate the roles and work meeting being scheduled for Tuesresponsibilities of the city’s elected officials. day, Feb. 23, with City Attorney Ricinda Perry and City Clerk Terri Sanclemente in policies and procedures Cole wished to legal advice to decipher what the policies attendance. discuss. are meant to state by law. By including the At that same meeting, the commission “I’m confused on what we’re talking clerk and the city attorney, we’ll get more adopted a previously-requested resoluabout. I have a concern that we don’t get out of the meeting. I wanted to have the city tion that states agenda items can only be into micromanaging,” Shearon said. attorney in case we needed to clarify someremoved by the clerk or the commission as “I’m not trying to look at every policy thing. That’s why I wanted a work meeting a whole, but not by the mayor alone. and procedure of what the city does,” Cole instead of a workshop.”

“What I’m trying to do here is get clarireplied. “Mainly how the city commission A work meeting allows for formal fication on our policies and procedures. I operates, how we’re governing the city. Me decision-making, while a workshop want to go over what’s already here. I don’t and Jake (Spooner) are new, and I would simply provides a public forum for open want to reinvent the wheel, I just want to like some input.” discussion. balance it,” Cole said of this latest request.

In an effort to avoid attorney fees, Vice Mayor Ed Straight requested that Cole said he hoped to gain insight from Shearon suggested the work session take all applicable policies be provided to the city staff and the more experienced complace without Perry. He said any legal ques- commissioners for review prior to the mission members. tions that arose could be addressed later. work meeting. Perry said there are 10 to 12 Sharon said he was unclear as to what In response, Cole said, “I believe we need policies that pertain to the commission, in

addition to the provisions set forth in the city charter.

“It affects everybody here, so I think as many people should be there as possible,” Straight said of the clerk and attorney’s participation.

Commissioner Jake Spooner said he agreed with Straight. Commissioner Jan Vosburgh said she had mixed feelings about the clerk and attorney’s participation.

In response to Cole’s agenda request, Shearon distributed an e-mail to commissioners on Jan. 19 that addressed requests for professional services provided by the city attorney, city planner and city engineer, all of whom bill by the hour.

His note said department heads can spend up to $250 on a professional services request without the approval of the mayor or commission; and the mayor can spend up to $2,000 without commission authorization. His note did not address professional services requests made by individual commissioners, but when contacted later, Shearon mentioned a commission decision reached during his first term as mayor that allows commissioners one hour of professional services per issue of concern.

While serving as city treasurer in 2014, Sheila Dalton, at the request of Shearon, distributed a memo to the mayor, commissioners and staff that said a request for services had to be filled out and a purchase order had to be created before professional services were rendered. This practice was discarded during Jack Clarke’s tenure as mayor because some felt it limited access to the city attorney.

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13

Who runs the show?

The city charter and a 2014 resolution both address the powers of the mayor and city commission.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

The electric tram will soon provide park and ride shuttle services in the Bradenton Beach business district.

SUBMITTED

Park and ride shuttle service coming On Monday, Feb. 15, Adventure Away of Bradenton and the Gulf Islands will launch its Ride AMI Bridge Street park and ride shuttle service in Bradenton Beach.

Starting with one, eight-passenger, golf cart-like electric tram, this new service is aimed at connecting other alternative transportation Island options, like the Island Beach Monkeys and the Anna Maria Island Trolley, with the goal of addressing the growing parking and transportation strains facing the Bradenton Beach business district. The hope is that this new shuttle service will lead to a full range of additional alternative transportation services.

Many of the businesses in the Bridge Street and Bradenton Beach business districts have been looking at creative solutions to address the mounting parking and transportation SEE SHUTTLE, PAGE 16

BRADENTON BEACH – Commissioner Ralph Cole’s recent request for a work meeting to clarify city policies that determine how the city is governed is not without precedent.

Similar clarifications were sought in 2014, during Bill Shearon’s first term as mayor. On March 20, 2014, the City Commission adopted Resolution 14-812, “A resolution clarifying and establishing rules and policies governing the manner in which city business and city-related manners are conducted by elected officials.�

The resolution states that it was created in order to establish a more effective and efficient governmental body and to identify the means and methods elected officials use when working together and with city staff.

The resolution says, “Since the city has not adopted a clear form of government and has not retained a city manager to manage the business and legal affairs of the city, the city commission recognizes the need and importance of clarifying and delineating the duties and powers of the elected officials, as

well as establishing a more uniform manner and method for elected officials to interact with staff in order to efficiently and effectively conduct the business and legal affairs of the city.�

In regard to general supervision, the resolution says, “The mayor shall be responsible for the ministerial oversight of day-today operations of the city and the implementation of the policies adopted by the city commission.�

In regard to the oversight of city staff, the resolution says, “The mayor shall oversee the day-to-day functions of the department heads and supervisor procedures.�

The resolution then states, “The mayor shall not actively participate or influence any city employee or contractor on any issue, decisionmaking or job performance which may foreseeably come before the city commission for action.�

The resolution places similar restrictions on city commissioners and states commissioners also need to have department heads and supervisory staff available to them for informal purposes.

The resolution states the mayor can suspend a department head for up to three days, but must provide just cause. Commission approval is required to enact a longer suspension or terminate a department head or charter official. The city’s charter officials are the police chief, city attorney, city clerk, treasurer,

public works director, city planner and building official.

The duties and powers of the mayor are primarily detailed in section three of the city charter. “The mayor is the executive head of the city government. The mayor is responsible for administrative oversight of the city government.

The mayor has primary responsibility for insuring the city operates in accordance with the policy mandates of the commission. The mayor shall convey policy directions from the commission to the appointed officials of the city as part of the city administration,� the charter states.

Unlike the Anna Maria and Holmes Beach charters, the words “supervise� and “direct supervision� are not directly attributed to the Bradenton Beach mayor, and this ambiguity contributed to the resolution discussions in 2014. Anna Maria and Holmes Beach also have non-voting mayors, which is not the case in Bradenton Beach.

Section four of the city charter addresses the duties and powers of city commissioners and states, “The commission establishes its own operating rules and procedures and shall provide guidance to the mayor.�

The charter and the resolution are among the documents expected to be discussed at the Tuesday, Feb. 23, commission work meeting.

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THE SUN

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FEBRUARY 3, 2016

Pizzeria provides AME Family Dinner Danny’s New York Pizzeria will serve Italian food at the Anna Maria Elementary School PTO’s Family Dinner in the school cafeteria from 5 to 7 p.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 9. For $8, choose between baked ziti or sausage and peppers in white wine sauce. Kids can choose between a slice of pepperoni

or cheese pizza for $5. All meals come with a house salad, garlic knots and a beverage. Those who pre order by 3 p.m. on Monday, Feb. 8, will be eligible for a drawing for one of two $25 gift certificates for Danny’s Pizzeria.

At 7 p.m., Third graders will perform their musical play “Friends.” Admission is free.

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FEBRUARY 3, 2016

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FISHING FESTIVAL

FEB. 13 & 14 10 A.M. TO 6 P.M.

www.cortez-fish.org For information call 941-254-4972

The festival is located at the East end of town adjacent to the Florida Maritime Museum on 119th St. W. to the Bay. Offsite free parking is available at: • G.T. Bray Park (with $2.50 round trip shuttle to Cortez) (5502 33rd Ave Dr W., 34209 -- turn east off 59th St onto 33rd Ave Dr) • Coquina Beach (with $2.50 round trip shuttle to Cortez) • One block east of the village, off Cortez Road (5-minute walk)

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Pier lawsuit costs adding up Barring a settlement, a yet-to-be-scheduled circuit court hearing will determine whether the pier subleases are valid.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun

BRADENTON BEACH – Last week, city commissioners approved payment of a $3,795 invoice for legal services provided to the city in defense of the lawsuit filed by Bradenton Beach Marina owners Al and Mike Bazzy.

The invoice submitted by the Blalock Walters law firm was for legal services that attorney Fred Moore provided the city as of Dec. 31. Moore’s services pertain to the lawsuit the Bazzy’s filed in November in objection to the pier subleases AMOB President John Horne reached with Sherman Baldwin, AnnMarie Nicholas and Laura Shely.

This figure does not include the ongoing legal services Moore has provided the city since Dec. 31, including his appearance at the Jan. 15, hearing that saw Judge John Lakin deny the Bazzy’s request for a temporary injunction that would have forced Baldwin to vacate his subleased space on the Historic Bridge Street Pier.

The city also incurred an additional $360 in invoiced legal fees for services

provided by City Attorney Ricinda Perry, who is not the city’s primary legal representative in this case. This brings the city’s total invoiced legal fees to date to $4,407. This figure does not include any legal costs incurred by Horne and the other subtenants named with the city as co-defendants.

The agenda for the Feb. 4 commission meeting indicates Perry will provide the commission with a status update on the ongoing legal proceedings at this week’s meeting. The city’s unbudgeted legal fees are expected to climb as the Bazzys continue their legal challenge, despite the recent injunction ruling that was favorable to the city and the pier tenants.

The lawsuit seeks a court order to reissue a request for proposals that would put the use of two city-owned commercial spaces located next to the cityowned restaurant space back out for bid. The suit is based on the allegation that city officials violated the Sunshine Law when privately discussing the lease terms with Horne prior to the terms being approved by the city commission.

Unless a settlement can be reached, the lawsuit is headed for a full court hearing that at some point that will determine whether any Sunshine violations occurred; and if they did, what, if any, impact would this have on the validity of the sublease agreements.

SHUTTLE: Park and ride service coming to Bridge Street FROM PAGE 13

challenges, and the new shuttle service is part of the efforts to spearhead the development of an interconnected multi-modal parking and transportation plan for the Island.

According to City Commissioner Jacob Spooner, “Alternative transportation is what is needed to get people out of their cars and help alleviate congestion and parking issues, and this will be a significant stride forward.”

Ride AMI will operate scheduled shuttle routes between the business district and designated parking areas daily from 2 p.m. until 10 p.m., and the shuttle services will be based on a suggested gratuity of $2 per rider.

The program will also include shuttle

service for local employees, and efforts are afoot to establish employee incentive plans that encourage employees to utilize a program that could open up an estimated 50 to 75 parking spaces daily within the business district.

Ride AMI is working with the Bridge Street Merchants association, civic leaders and local business leaders and hopes to garner additional support from Manatee County officials, the Island Transportation Planning Organization and elected officials in the Island cities.

More information about Ride AMI can be found at www.adventureaway. com, and additional inquiries can be made by e-mailing info@adventureaway.com or by calling 1-844-522-6654.

FEBRUARY 3, 2016

FEBRUARY 3, 2016

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17

joe hendricks | sun

The Long Bar Pointe developers have not given up on their efforts to include a marina in their development plans.

Long Bar Pointe developers file appeal No court date has been set for the appeal of Circuit Court Judge John Lakin’s recent ruling.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

BRADENTON – On Thursday, Jan. 21, the Long Bar Pointe developers filed a notice of appeal with the Florida Second District Court of Appeal in Lakeland.

Developer Carlos Beruff and his business associates have now set in motion an attempt to overturn a ruling handed down locally by Circuit Court Judge John Lakin in December. Lakin ruled in favor of Manatee County and the validity of the county’s comprehensive plan that has thus far prevented Beruff from including a marina and inland navigation channel in his plans to develop his coastal property along El Conquistador Parkway in west Bradenton.

On Friday, a member of the Second District Clerk of the Court’s office confirmed the notice of appeal had been filed, but she said the case had not yet been assigned a case number. She also said many records and briefs have to be filed, and additional legal steps need to be taken before a court date is set.

When asked about the appeal, County Attorney Mickey Palmer said, “The filing of the notice of appeal comes as no surprise. We anticipated it. In fact, the county

We will continue to aggressively defend the county’s comprehensive plan, regardless of which court we are in.”

Mickey Palmer County Attorney attorney’s office has approached this matter from the beginning on the assumption that we would wind up litigating in the appellate courts.

"We believe that Circuit Judge John Lakin got it right. We will continue to aggressively defend the county’s comprehensive plan, regardless of which court we are in.”

Attorney William Moore represented the Long Bar Pointe developers at the December hearing. He acknowledged the notice of appeal had been filed, but directed all further inquiries to the developers.

18

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FEBRUARY 3, 2016

CINDY LANE | SUN

Garbage out Manatee County held its e-scrap collection at Coquina Beach Saturday, garnering old printers, copiers, computers and other electronics for proper disposal.

Heart a manatee Celebrate Valentine’s Day with a manatee adoption from Save the Manatee Club. Each adoption given as a Valentine’s Day gift helps to educate others about this unique animal and supports the club’s conservation programs.

For a $25 adoption, you will receive an adoption certificate with a color photo and biography of a real endan-

gered Florida manatee; a membership handbook; The Manatee Zone, the

official club newsletter; Paddle Tales enewsletter and free shipping in the U.S. For a $35 adoption, you will also receive a free 35th anniversary magnet.

For a $55 adoption or more, you will receive get a free, individually handcrafted manatee heart ornament (supplies are limited).

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TIP-OFFS TO POTENTIAL RIP-OFFS

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

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

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

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

Don’t be afraid to ask for references.

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

Get an es mate/proposal in wri ng.

Make sure it specifies work to be performed.

FEBRUARY 3, 2016

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19

SUBMITTED | RICK PICKWICK

AMICCO Concert The audience gave standing ovations at the Anna Maria Island Concert Chorus and Orchestra’s first mainland concert at Kirkwood Presbyterian Church on Sunday, Jan. 24. Soloists included the 2015 AMICCO Young Artists Solo Competition Winner, Camden McLean, at left. AMICCO will perform Handel’s’ “Israel in Egypt� on Feb. 21. Tickets are available online at www.amicco.org,.

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FEBRUARY 3, 2016

Officer happy to be back on the beat Holmes Beach Officer Rob Velardi survived the odds and doctors were able to get rid of his pancreatic cancer tumor.

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

HOLMES BEACH – Most residents would recognize officer Rob Velardi as the Anna Maria Elementary School crossing guard.

To most of the students there he is their first chance to see a policeman up close.

If not for a lot of luck and some skilled surgery, he would not be here today.

It began in February of last year when Velardi, who has been with the department for almost 30 years, started having stomach pains.

“I went to the doctor, and he couldn’t determine what it was,” Velardi said. “They took a bunch of scans, and after a couple of months, they said I had pancreatic cancer.”

By that time, Velardi had been transferred from overnight hours to the daytime and he took over being the school resource officer at Anna Maria Elementary School. Ironically, an earlier school resource officer, Pete Lannon, had passed away from the same type of cancer.

Velardi said the doctor determined the cancer to be stage three, which means it was not operable.

He said veins and arteries had grown around the tumor, and doctors would have to try to shrink it with chemotherapy. The doctor said the odds of succeeding were 25 percent.

“That was really rough,” he said. “I was tired and I didn’t want to eat after the chemotherapy. I lost 100 pounds.”

He said he considered giving up at that time.

tom vaught | sun

Holmes Beach officer Rob Velardi thanked the women in his life – his wife, daughter and sister – for their help during his fight against pancreatic cancer.

“That’s when I discovered I was surrounded by great women,” he said. “My wife, my daughter and my sister rallied me.”

After several treatments, they found his tumor had shrunk and they operated.

“They cut me open, but the doctor said he saw lots of cancer inside, so they didn’t go any farther,” he said. The doctor didn’t give up, and after he took biopsies, he determined the growths were not cancer.

“The surgeon went in again and took out parts of my pancreas, stomach, small intestines and gall bladder,” he said. “They also got the cancerous tumor.”

After recovery, he came home where his

CINDY LANE | SUN

By the sea Island artist Cheetah Chad Ruis’ latest mural is at 7216 Holmes Boulevard in Holmes Beach. He previously created a mural on the exterior of the Moose Lodge in Bradenton Beach, including a moose on a surfboard inside the barrel of a wave. After operating his own graphic design and advertising companies designing brands and marketing materials, Cheetah changed course to pursue his passions for art, surfing, skate, ocean, nature and world adventure. He has painted on vans, RVs, fences, sidewalks and canvas.

wife, Angela, and the other women in his life took over his care until he could get back to work,.

Velardi credited his doctor, Dr. Robert Whorf, of Florida Cancer Specialists, and his surgeon, Dr. Kenneth Meredith, who had just come to Sarasota from Moffitt Cancer Center.

Velardi said he came face to face with his mortality.

I went from highs to lows,” he said.

“When I found out I could have the surgery, I went to a high; when they said they found more cancer, I went on a low; and when they did the biopsies and found out it

wasn’t cancer, I went on a high. When they finished, I was on another high. I was on a high three Fridays in a row.

Velardi credits many people who supported him with words, deeds and prayers.

“I realize how many great people are in my life; the employees in the department; Chief Tokajer, who never let me worry about having a job; city officials and employees,” he said. “I’m really happy to be back at the school, they are really great people.”

He will get cat scans every three months and do his job until he retires next year.

“As much as physically, mentally, I’m back.”

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FEBRUARY 3, 2016

THE SUN

21

Fire damages Anna Maria home An electrical fire in a bedroom of the house at 140 Crescent Drive in Anna Maria caused slight smoke damage last weekend. Nobody was injured.

According to West Manatee Fire Rescue Fire Marshall Jim Davis, the fire department arrived on the scene at around 5:30 p.m. on Saturday and extinguished the fire within a couple of minutes. He said the fire was confined to a bedroom and there was more smoke than flames.

He said it started at an overloaded receptacle and when the occupants opened the door to the room and saw the smoke, they closed the door, limiting the smoke damage.

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Liza Kubik, marketing manager for the Seafood Shack, addresses members of the Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce who attended the Chamber Business Card Exchange on Wednesday, Jan. 27. The event was held in the bayfront restaurant’s newly restyled Neptune Room on the second floor. The room sports a new dance floor and a new stage will be installed soon. The restaurant served oysters on the half shell and other seafood offerings to the guests.

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FEBRUARY 3, 2016

Businesses, homeowners can apply for storm assistance Financial assistance may be available from the state for local businesses and homeowners that sustained damage from the strong storms and tornado that touched down in Manatee County last month.

The state Emergency Response Team has activated the Florida Virtual Business Emergency Operations Center (FLVBEOC) to assist in assessing the impact that the storms

had on local businesses.

Business owners who were impacted are asked to complete a Business Damage Assessment Survey online at http://flvbeoc.org/index. php?action=bda (select the “Winter Tornadoes 2016” event). The survey results will be shared with state and local agencies to expedite appropriate disaster relief programs for affected businesses.

The Manatee County Emergency Management office also is asking homeowners who sustained damage from last weekend’s storm to report it to the county by calling 941749-3500, ext. 1667. Manatee County will share that information with the National Insurance Claim Bureau, which monitors insurance claims.

Last week’s countywide assessment revealed only three

residential properties impacted by the storm, two in Duette and one in northwest Braden-

ton, totaling less than $175,000 in damages.

Get CodeRED To receive tornado alerts on your phone, sign up for CodeRED at https://public. coderedweb.com/CNE/ BFE4C2563819. The emergency notification service allows Manatee County

emergency officials to notify residents and businesses by telephone, cell phone, text message, e-mail and social media regarding time-sensitive general and emergency notifications.

Thanks Trolleys The Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce handed out checks to 22 non-profit organizations on Thursday, Jan. 28, at the Tortuga Inn pergola on the beach, The $30,000 came from trolley advertising revenues, and it went to All Island Denominations, the Anna Maria Island Community Chorus and Orchestra, the Anna Maria Elementary School PTO, the AMI Art League, AMI Historical Society, AMI Preservation Trust, AMI Privateers, AMI Turtle Watch, Artists Gallery of AMI, Bridge Street Merchants, Cortez Historic Society, CrossPointe Fellowship for the veteran’s salute, AMI Cultural Connections, the Florida Maritime Museum, Food and Wine on Pine, Friends of the Island Library, the Kiwanis Club of AMI, Moonracer No Kill Animal Rescue, Roser Food Pantry, the Rotary Club of AMI, West Bradenton Crime Watch and Wildlife Education and Rehabilitation Center.

TOM VAUGHT | SUN

FEBRUARY 3, 2016

FOOD & WINE

THE SUN

23

Fresh food fast, not fast food

Brian Seymor

I

Chicken Salad Ingredients

This is prepared at the store in 20-pound batches. Reduce ingredients accordingly.

• 20 lbs. boneless chicken breast • 8 to 10 ribs celery • 2 medium yellow onions • 16 oz. dried cranberries • 16 oz. chicken broth • 16 oz. panko or bread crumbs • Olive oil • 6 to 8 c. mayonnaise • Salt • Pepper

AMI GENERAL STORE

read recently that one third of Americans on average eat fast food on a daily basis. As obesity is a huge issue in America, one can only hope that the ever changing food choices we are presented with daily, change more and more towards fresh food fast and away from fast food.

At least on our little slice of paradise, we are fortunate not to have an overabundance of fast food options to fill the immediate cravings we have all given into throughout our busy lives.

It still amazes me, but does not surprise me when a customer comes in to our store and asks, "What sandwiches do you have that are pre made?"

Oh, let me show you the deli case with pre-made sandwiches from lord knows when, with who knows what in them! Oh and if you don't like what's in them you can scrape it off. OK. In reality we don't say that to our customers, we take a moment to explain that we make our sandwiches fresh to order. While this may not be the most efficient way of running a business, we strongly believe, based on customer feedback, that it's in their best interest to run our business that way.

Fortunately, I see the same trend all over our beautiful Island from other small businesses and hope that fresh food fast continues to flourish. Gone are the days, at least on Anna Maria Island, hopefully, where convenience is based on one person's guess of what will be ordered during the next breakfast, lunch or dinner rush without any

Directions

submitted

Find a fresh chicken salad sandwich at the Anna Maria General Store and Deli. fresh food fast options.

We pride ourselves at the Anna Maria General Store on making all of our fresh prepared food options with

GRILL & SEAFOOD

1920’S Cottage on Historic Bridge Street on Anna Maria Island featuring the freshest seafood & hearty fare the Gulf Coast has to offer.

Live Music

Friday Saturday

www.bluemarlinami.com

(941) 896-9737 t 121 Bridge Street, Bradenton Beach, FL

• Prepare chicken breasts on baking sheet with a light rubbing of olive oil and salt and pepper. Bake in oven at 350º for 1 hour to ensure proper cooking temperature.

• While chicken is baking, dice celery and onion to medium size pieces and place in mixing bowl.

• Add dried cranberries to mixing bowl.

• When chicken is done, shred it by hand or in a mixer. It is much easier to do by hand when warm.

• Add chicken to mixing bowl.

• Add just enough panko or bread crumbs to help hold the mix together.

• Add chicken broth and salt and pepper to mixing bowl and let mix marinate in refrigerator, preferably overnight, to allow the ingredients to absorb the chicken broth.

• Once marinated, add mayonnaise to desired consistency and mix well.

• Serve on a bed of lettuce or as a sandwich on your favorite bread. Enjoy!

the highest quality ingredients, locally sourced as possible and in small batches to ensure the freshest quality.

We hope that our customers continue

to spend the extra couple of minutes with us and our competitors and demand that their fast food options are fresh food fast.

24

FEBRUARY 3, 2016

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FEBRUARY 3, 2016

25

26

THE SUN

OUTDOORS

AMI OUTFITTERS

Fly SUP

Coastal Gear & Apparel 401 & 505 Pine Ave Anna Maria

Tech

amioutfitters.com

941-254-4996 FEBRUARY 3, 2016

Lines and leaders

W

hen anglers talk tackle the conversation, is usually centered on rods and reels, lures and accessories. While these make up the largest part of the fisherman’s arsenal, lines and leaders are an integral part of the equation. The major choices of lines are varied falling into three categories: braid, monofilament, and fluorocarbon. While fluorocarbon, monofilament and braided lines were created to spool reels, fluorocarbon is most often used as a leader material. Each has its advantages and disadvantages, and anglers should choose them based on their fishing style and use.

Monofilament has been around for decades and is probably the most commonly used line. It has many advantages and a few disadvantages that will affect the anglers’ choice. Chief among its advantages are affordability and the fact that it sinks slowly and is more forgiving (stretches) making it less likely to break when shocked. Its disadvantages include the fact that is less durable, has a larger diameter and can’t be cast as far. For experienced anglers who use braided

Reel Time RUSTY CHINNIS line, the stretch can actually be a disadvantage.

Braided lines have made significant inroads since their introduction in the early 90s. They are constructed of a special blend of polyethylene fibers. Some brands are wound loosely while others are fused. Braided lines are extremely durable, with no stretch. The unfused lines are generally suppler, while the fused ones are stiffer, but less likely to wrap around guides and form knots during casting, one of the disadvantages of braided lines. When using braid it’s important to be aware that no loops form on your reel, a sure sign of trouble to come. It’s also wise to raise the rod tip to tighten the line after a cast and before retrieving.

Braided lines are much stronger than mono lines, so pound for pound they have a much smaller

sun file photo

Whatever line you use make sure you don’t leave it in the environment where it can become a death trap for sea birds. diameter. In order to get the line to spool on the reel like mono, it is necessary to choose a matching diameter, which will be much stron-

ger than the equivalent an angler is used to. Most anglers choose to go with a matching line test (i.e. smaller diameter line) and add a

tide chart for anna maria city pier Feb 3-10 A.M. High Time Feet

A.M. Low Time Feet

P.M. High Time Feet

P.M. Low Time Feet

Sun Rise Set

Day Date

A.M. High Time Feet

A.M. Low Time Feet

P.M. High Time Feet

P.M. Low Time Feet

Sun Rise Set

Wed 2/3

10:00a 1.03

1:59a -0.18

6:25p 1.,84

12:06p 1.00

7:16-6:13

Sun 2/7

11:48a 1.25

4:58 -0.69

9:52p 2.18

4:07p 0.80

7:13-6:16

Thu 2/4

10:38a 1.12

2:55a-0.37

7:23p 1.94

1:25p 1.05

Mon 2/8

12:09p 1.30

5:34a -0.67

10:41p 2.16

4:56p 0.65

Fri 2/5

11:04 1.19

3:41a -0.53

8:15p 2.04

2:26p 1.02

Tue 2/9

12:32p 1.38

6:09a -0.58

11:32p 2.06

5:46p 0.48

Sat 2/6

11:26a 1.22

4:21a -0.64

9:05p 2.14

3:18p 0.93

6:43a -0.43

12:58p 1.50

6:40p 0.31

Day Date

7:15-6:13 7:15-6:14 7:14-6:15

Wed 2/10

7:13-6:16 7:12-6:17 7:11-6:18

FEBRUARY 3, 2016

reel time: Lines and leaders FROM PAGE 26

base of mono on the spool. That way you don’t have to use extra braid that will never see the light of day.

The major advantage of braided lines is that they don’t stretch, making them more sensitive for anglers when fishing. This makes it easier to feel a bite and to set the hook on a fish. This is a big advantage when bottom fishing and targeting fish with subtle bites.

Fluorocarbon lines are expensive, and while it was intended as a filler line, most anglers use it primarily for leaders. It has a number of advantages over monofilament line, the most important being that it is less visible in the water. In addition, it is denser, sinks faster and is more abrasion resistant. It’s important to carefully seat all knots and this is especially true with fluorocarbon.

There are so many lines and variations on the market that it would take a book to cover them all.

There is a lot of information on the Internet, but probably the best advice would be to seek out local knowledge from anglers and tackle shops and try the different lines to see which suits your fishing style. That may end up being a particular type of braid, monofilament or fluorocarbon.

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THE SUN

27

Look for Spanish mackerel in Sarasota Bay Captain Rick Grassett

Anglers fishing with me on my Action Craft flats skiff the Snook Fin-Addict, out of CB's Saltwater Outfitters on Siesta Key, caught and released trout, bluefish and ladyfish on flies and CAL jigs with shad tails on deep grass flats of Sarasota Bay during the past week. A couple of trips were cancelled due to rain and wind.

Action was slow early in the week as water temperatures plunged below 60 degrees following a front last weekend. However, action picked up towards the middle of the week as the water warmed a few degrees, and anglers fishing deep grass flats caught and released ladyfish and a few blues and trout on CAL jigs with shad tails and Ultra Hair Clouser flies. Flats close to passes were most productive due to slightly warmer, more stable water temperatures.

I gave a presentation on Saturday on Fishing Winter Tides and will give another presentation on Inshore Winter Tactics with Lures and Flies at 1 p.m. on Sunday on the Inshore Stage at the Florida

CAPTAIN RICK GRASSETT | submitted

Tony Merlis, from New Hampshire, caught and released this Spanish mackerel on an Ultra Hair Clouser fly while fishing Sarasota Bay in a previous February with Capt.

Rick Grassett.

Sportsman Magazine Fishing Show at the Lee County Civic Center in Ft. Myers. The show is one of the best around the state and is always well attended. I also spent some time with my friends at DOA Fishing Lures in their booth. It’s always fun to talk fishing with

people and help them with rigging, color selection, etc.

Look for reds and big trout mixed with mullet schools on shallow flats and edges of bars in Sarasota Bay and back country arsee captains, page 28

28

www.amisun.com

THE SUN

FEBRUARY 3, 2016

captains: Captain offers fishing advice FROM PAGE 27

eas of Charlotte Harbor and lowerTampa Bay. Trout, bluefish and more should be a good option on deep grass flats of Sarasota Bay. Catch and release snook fishing around lighted docks and bridges with flies and DOA Lures should also be a good option as long as water temperatures don’t dip too low.

Trout and redfish should be good shallow water options in Sarasota Bay this month. You may also find trout along with blues, Spanish mackerel, pompano and flounder on deep grass flats. Look for sheepshead, flounder, reds and more around docks.

Catch and release night snook fishing around lighted docks in the ICW may be a good option if it’s not too cold.

Spanish mackerel, king mackerel and cobia may show up in the coastal Gulf by the end of the month depending on conditions.

Snook season closed

Snook season remains closed this month, so use tackle heavy enough to catch and release them quickly. Since they are temperature sensitive, I won’t target them following strong fronts when water temperatures dip below 60 degrees. However, I have had some great night trips catching and releasing snook on flies in the ICW at night this time of year. Since larger baitfish aren’t that plentiful this time of year, snook will gorge themselves on glass minnows and shrimp. Small white flies, like my Grassett Snook Minnow, glass minnow patterns or Shrimp Gurglers will all work well.

You may also find snook in rivers, creeks or canals this month. Fishing may be good in these areas on a blustery day when it isn’t fit to fish anywhere else. I like wider profile flies in these areas due to the baitfish that may be found there. Fly anglers should score with baitfish patterns, such as Lefty’s Deceiver or my Grassett Deep Flats Bunny, fished on a sink tip fly line. Fish the deep spots, usually in bends in the river, for the best action.

Pothole reds

You might find reds in potholes or along the edges of bars and shallow flats when the tide is low. As the tide rises, they will feed higher on shallow flats, particularly on sunny afternoons.

Fly anglers should score with lightly weighted flies with weed guards on floating lines with 10- to 12-foot leaders. My Grassett Flats Minnow fly is my go to fly for fishing skinny water.

You may also find big trout in skinny water in the same places you find reds. The same flies and techniques

CAPTAIN RICK GRASSETT | submitted

February is usually a good month for big trout in skinny water. Gary Roberts, from Bradenton, caught and released this one on a weedless-rigged CAL shad tail while fishing Gasparilla Sound near Boca Grande in a previous February with Capt. Rick Grassett. that you use to target reds will work for big trout in those areas. I release all trout over 20 inches since they are usually females, and I feel that they are important to the health of our trout fishery.

Trout, flounder on deep flats

You’ll also find trout on deep grass flats of Sarasota Bay, and silver trout may mix with them on deep grass flats close to passes. I like flats that have a good mix of grass and sand and good tidal flow. Flats that are close to passes, such as the Midleground, Radio Tower and Marina Jack flats, are often good choices, unless the water is dirty. Following fronts, silted up water will cover deep grass flats close to passes, often affecting fishing in those areas. I like to drift and cast ahead of my drift with weighted flies, like my Grassett Deep Flats Bunny or Ultra Hair Clouser flies, on sink tip fly lines to locate trout. Once you’ve located them, you can shorten your drift or anchor on them.

In addition to trout, you may also find blues, Spanish mackerel, flounder or pompano, depending on water temperature and conditions, on deep grass

flats. The technique to find them is the same as for trout, although there may be other clues. Pompano may skip on the surface when you drift or run past them giving their presence away.

When that happens, set up a drift upwind of where you saw a pompano and cast ahead of your drift. Blues and Spanish mackerel may force bait out of the water or feed on the surface.

You may need to add heavy fluorocarbon or wire when blues and mackerel are mixed with trout on deep grass flats. I like to use Ultra Hair Clouser flies, tied on long shank hooks leaving a portion of the hook shank exposed as a bite guard, when toothy fish are around.

The dock option

Fishing docks is another good option this time of year, especially when the tide is low. You might find reds, sheepshead or flounder under docks.

I like docks that are deep (3 feet or more) and have a good tidal flow.

Fish the end of long piers to find the deepest water. Also, look for big boats moored on docks or on boat lifts, which is also an indication of deeper water. Older docks with lots of bar-

nacle and oyster growth usually hold more baitfish and predators. I like weighted flies, like Clousers, fished on sink tip fly lines when fishing docks.

Be sure to let your fly get down close to the bottom and strip with a distinct pause to keep it low in the water column.

There may be some action in the coastal Gulf by the end of the month with Spanish mackerel, king mackerel and cobia depending on conditions.

When the water warms to the high 60s to low 70s, these fish will move into our area from the south as they migrate north. Look for Spanish mackerel on the surface or in passes. Cobia may be swimming on the surface, around buoys, channel markers and crab trap floats or over structure.

February can be a tough month to fish. With frequent fronts and cool water, fish aren’t always in an eating mood. If you’re able to pick good tides combined with favorable weather conditions, you should be successful. If you don’t have that luxury, you might do better by sleeping in and fishing later in the day when it’s warmer.

Whatever you choose to do, please limit your kill, don’t kill your limit!

WWW.AMISUN.COM - CELEBRATING 15 YEARS

FEBRUARY 3, 2016

BEACH BEAT

117 7th St. N. A dog bit a neighbor on the lips. Animal control was called.

1/22, burglary to a vehicle, 400 block of Gulf Drive South. An air compressor was stolen from a car.

Anna Maria

Bradenton Beach

1/20, trespass warning, Sports Lounge, 118 Bridge Street,. The officer was asked by management to issue a warning t a customer who was argumentative.

1/21, animal complaint, Bay View Terrace,

Obituaries Edwin J. (Ed) Callen Ed Callen, 92, of Anna Maria, passed into the hands of his Lord on Jan. 26, 2016.

Born in Brooklyn, N.Y., on April 21, 1923, to Margaret and Joseph Callen, Ed was preceded in death by his wife of 57 years, Lee, and his brothers, Bob and Warren. Ed served in the U.S. Navy during WW II as a crewman on a Navy patrol bomber in both the Atlantic and Pacific theaters of war.

After his discharge from the service in December 1947, he went to work in a defense plant on Long Island, N.Y. where he met and married his wife Lee in September 1950.

In 1952, he was appointed to the N.Y.

Fire Department and spent 24 years as a New York City firefighter before retiring in 1976.

Ed and Lee found Anna Maria Island in the late 60s while visiting friends, and bought their home in Anna Maria City in 1972. They finally moved to paradise in 1978.

Ed became involved in local politics in 1982 when he was appointed to the Anna Maria Planning Commission by then Mayor Ernie Cagnina. He later became chairman while working on the original city comprehensive plan and land development regulations. The same year, he became one of the founders of the Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and eventually became it’s director in 1985. When Ed was the director of Turtle Watch, with the permission of the then Mayor Ray Simches and the city commission, he acquired the old police building (the present Historical Museum) and outfitted it with salt water tanks and pumps to raise a limited amount of loggerhead turtle hatchlings

until they were a year old and then released them back into the Gulf to give them a better chance of survival.

In 1992, Ed received the Distinguished Citizen of the Year Award from the city of Anna Maria for outstanding service to the city.

Survivors include his loving son and daughter-in-law, Jim and Cathleen Callen, of Clarks Summit, Pa.; grandchildren Jamie Callen and his girlfriend Andrea Bevis, Michael Callen and his wife Camille, Ryan Callen and his wife Courtney, Kevin Callen and his girlfriend Jessica Arvay, Daniel Callen and his girlfriend Jennifer Mickley, and Matthew Callen, all of Pennsylvania; six great grandchildren, Brenna Rose Callen, Molly Elizabeth Callen, Olivia Leigh Callen, Maggie Grace Callen, Liam Patrick Callen and Charles Patrick Callen, all of Pennsylvania; step grandson, H. Lee Diers of California; four step great grandsons, Brian Diers, Sean Diers, August Diers, and Joshua Diers, of California.

go out on the beach and can actually go in the water.”

He said anyone who wants to use one must go to the lifeguard stand and request it. He said there has been a suggestion that they be available at the concession stands instead. Other suggestions include signage to let people know they are available and putting information on the county’s Website.

City pier donations increase Last week, Anna Maria Mayor Dan Murphy told city commissioners he received a $1,000 check from Scott and Deneen Knisely.

“They donated to the City Pier Park, so our coffers are increasing there. If we can finalize the estuary grant of $10,000, we’ll have received a total $16,000

Holmes Beach

1/25, violation of a domestic injunction, 3800 block of 116th Street Court West. The former boyfriend came to the victim’s house in violation of an injunction. The victim closed her door, and the suspect fled. He was stopped at 75th Street and Cortez Road West and arrested.

1/6, lost property, Cortez Kitchen, 4528 119th St. W. A man called the Sheriff’s Office to report his iPad was missing.

Wheelchairs available at beach Bradenton Beach Mayor Bill Shearon told island elected officials recently that he is seeking easier access and more visibility for wheelchairs at the public beaches on the Island.

“Manatee County has three beach accessible wheelchairs – two at Coquina Beach and one at Manatee Beach,” he said. “They have flotation wheels and people with disabilities can

He said he misplaced it at the restaurant.

1/16, larceny, 3200 East Bay Drive, Walgreen’s. Two women took approximately $80 worth of merchandise from the liquor store. A witness got a license number of the getaway car, and police are investigating.

1/20, driving with an expired license, 4700 block of Gulf Drive. The officer stopped the driver for speeding and found that the driver’s license had expired. He was issued a summons.

1/22, criminal mischief, 5400 Marina Drive, Sand-N-Suds Coin Laundry. A large

Cortez

1/23, criminal mischief, Anna Maria City Pier, 100 S. Bay Blvd. Persons unknown shot holes in the restaurant’s wind curtains with a BB gun.

THE SUN

in donations, which is a significant amount, I think. I wanted to thank them publicly for their contribution to the city, and I went by their house the other day to thank them personally. They’re a very nice couple, and I thought that was a very good effort giving us that money,” Murphy said.

29

window was broken and it appeared as if the guilty party might have punched it because there was blood at the scene.

Officers followed the trail of blood to a Moped and got the owner’s name.

The owner did not have any injuries and said he sold the Moped to another person. Meanwhile, police contacted the owner of the property, who said he used to work with the father of the suspect and would not prosecute as long as the suspect paid for the damage.

1/22, lost property, 5600 Guava Street. The victim said he suspects his cleaning lady stole a ring valued at $6,000.

Kicliter Funeral Home, Palmetto, is in charge of arrangements.

Sistilio P. Castelli, Sistilio P. Castelli,, 94, of Bradenton, died Jan. 22, 2016.

Born in Hershey, Pa., he moved to Bradenton in 1989.

A veteran of the U.S. Army, he was a member of the 83rd Division VFW, and he attended St. Bernard Catholic Church.

He is survived by son Mark (Lisette) Castelli, three grandchildren and seven great grandchildren. There will be no local Services. Brown & Sons Funeral Homes & Crematory, 26th Street Chapel, is in charge of arrangements.

Memorial donations may be made to the Wounded Warriors Project. Condolences may be made to www.brownandsonsfuneral.com.

Joe Petriella loses battle to cancer The village of Cortez and the Swordfish Grill lost a good friend on Monday Jan. 25, when Joe Petriella passed away after a noble and life-affirming battle with lung cancer.

Born on March 13, 1957, Petriella was married to Swordfish Grill employee Peggy Dallas, and a celebration of Petriella’s life took place there Sunday. A fund-raiser hosted by the Swordfish Grill in July helped the couple return to their hometown of Cleveland, so Petriella could say farewell to friends and family.

When discussing his illness last summer, Petriella said “I’ve always had a premonition I’d die around 60. I don’t feel I have any unfinished business, and my bucket list is done other than one more trip home. I’m at peace with God and I’m satisfied with my life.”

PHOTO | SUBMITTED

Peggy Dallas and Joe Petriella were lifelong friends, and they married in 2013.

30

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THE SUN

FEBRUARY 3, 2016

Turtles, trees benefit from app

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

A project that uses an android app instead of pencil, paper and a clipboard is designed to save both turtles and trees, according to Suzi Fox, director of Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring.

The not-for-profit organization’s volunteers walk Anna Maria Island’s beaches

each morning from May 1 to Oct. 31 searching for flipper tracks that indicate that sea turtles have nested the night before.

Instead of recording data on clipboards showing the date, the location of nests, whether eggs are in the nests or whether they were false crawls and many other statistics, Turtle Watch is the first organization of its kind to use an app to enter the data electronically.

“We created an android app specifi-

cally designed to capture the data from Anna Maria Island nesting beaches on electronic tablets,” Fox said, adding that the information entered is sent to the Cloud from 10 Nexus 7 tablets used on the beach by volunteer coordinators, and is much faster and more accurate than the old method.

The spread sheet format of the app allows volunteer Pete Gross, also known as “The Stat Guy” to Turtle

Watchers, to access the information from the Cloud and use it to record weekly data on turtle nesting, which is published by The Sun during turtle season under the title Nesting News.

Funded by a $3,050 grant from sales of Florida sea turtle license plates, the app keeps paperwork to a minimum, Fox said, adding that Turtle Watch has retained data sheets from 8,405 sea turtle crawls on Anna Maria Island since 1982.

mark your calendar

Live like a local Respect Wildlife

From PAGE 7

11:45 a.m., to 12:30 p.m. $10.

Register to ArtLeagueAMI@ gmail.com or 941-778-2099.

Tuesday Feb. 9

Sparrow Please don’t remove or damage protected sea oats; I need them for a winter snack!

Anna Maria Island Sun, Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring

Source: Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission

City investment policy approved A city volunteer has proposed a debt reduction strategy that could save the city $356,000.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT

ANNA MARIA – Thanks to the efforts of resident John Chambers, the city has a new policy designed to increase investment revenue and potentially decrease interest payments.

Chambers, a retired certified public accountant and chief financial officer, has lived in Anna Maria since 2010.

After examining the city’s current investments and policies, he presented his findings at the Thursday, Jan. 28, City Commission meeting.

Before Chambers spoke, Mayor

Dan Murphy said, “We have really not done an adequate job of handling the city’s finances in terms of investments. We have a very minimal return on the amount of money that we have. We need to seek new opportunities and find new ways to invest the city’s money. We have a couple million dollars sitting around doing nothing, getting a zero return, so I asked Mr. Chambers, on a voluntary basis, to help us put together an investment policy.”

Having worked on the policy with City Clerk Diana Percycoe and Finance Director Maggie Martinez, Chambers said, “You have very little interest income, but quite a bit of cash.”

He said they looked at investment

polices used by other small cities in Florida and incorporated some of those polices into the proposed policy he was presenting.

“It basically tells you what we can and can’t do, what we should do and how we should do it,” Chambers said, noting that City Attorney Becky Vose reviewed the policy.

“There are three goals. The highest priority is to avoid and minimize risk.

We also want liquidity to get to our money when we want, and we also want to make some money,” he said.

He said another goal was to not overburden the finance department with investment efforts.

“What we’re asking to do, we’re SEE INVESTMENT, PAGE 39

Shell crafting class, Florida Maritime Museum, 4415 1119th St. W., Cortez, 10 a.m., $5. RSVP to 941-708-6120.

Gentle yoga, Aging in Paradise Resource Center, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, second floor, 10 to 11 a.m., $10 donation suggested. RSVP to maryannbrady@aginginparadise.org or 941-383-6493.

Preschool story time, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m.

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

The Psychology of Positive Aging with Ron Warner, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2 to 4 p.m.

Jazz Fest with Gulf Drive Band and Koko Ray, Sandbar pavilion, 100 Spring Ave., Anna Maria, 3 to 5 p.m. Tickets $10 at AMI Chamber, 5313 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, on Sundays at Coquina Beach Market or by calling 941-518-4431 or $15 at the door.

Inquiring Minds discussion group, Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, 6608 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 4 to 5:30 p.m.

Wednesday Feb.10

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

Lifelong Learning Academy discussions, The Center of AMI, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria, 11 a.m.

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

Chair yoga, Anna Maria Island Art League, 5312 Holmes Blvd., Holmes Beach, noon to 12:45 p.m. $10. Register to ArtLeagueAMI@gmail.com or 941-778-2099.

Ceili dancing, Sandpiper Mobile Resort, 2601 Gulf Drive, Bradenton Beach, 1 to 3 p.m.

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

Chess Club, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 3 p.m.

Thursday Feb. 11

Aerobics for Seniors, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, 11 a.m.

Friends’ Travel and Lecture Series with Jack Elka on aerial drone photography, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2 p.m.

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

Refreshments available for purchase.

Friday Feb. 12

Forty Carrots program for babies and children to age 5, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m.

Chair yoga, Anna Maria Island Art League, 5312 Holmes Blvd., Holmes Beach, noon to 12:45 p.m. $10. Register to ArtLeagueAMI@gmail.com or 941-778-2099.

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

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FEBRUARY 3, 2016

TOWN CRIER

Confederate flag discussion Exchange ideas on current events, social issues, politics and economic issues on Wednesdays from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Center of Anna Maria, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria, sponsored by the Lifelong Learning Academy.

On Feb. 3, the discussion questions are: Is the Confederate flag a representation of a historical event or a symbol of discrimination.? Must bigotry be tolerated to preserve our freedoms?

The sessions are free, and no registration is required. For more information, call the Lifelong Learning Academy at 941-359-4296 or visit www. lla-sm.org

Writers to critique The Gulf Coast Writers, a critique group, will meet on Wednesday, Feb. 3, at 1:15 p.m. at the Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Readers should e-mail their readings or bring multiple copies for critiques. Any questions, contact Alice Moerk at 778-7923.

Get the lowdown on bees Bee expert Kevin Lausman, a lifelong Manatee resident and member of the area’s pioneer Cobb family, will talk about beekeeping and the future of the flying pollinators when he speaks at the Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, at 2 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 4.

Lausman’s interest in bees began when he read about the mysterious deaths of bees worldwide. He manages about 20 hives, and he works with Manatee and Sarasota Counties on the problem of keeping bees alive.

This event is part of the Friends of the Island Library’s Lecture and Travel Series. All lectures are free, and seating is on a first-come, first served basis. Call 778-6341 for more information.

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Tea for two The Roser Memorial Church Guild hosts a Valentine’s Tea at 1 p.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 9, in the fellowship hall, 512 Pine Avenue, Anna Maria. The speaker for the program will be from the Jim Russo Prison Ministries. Tickets also will be available for the March 8 Guild Thrift Shop style show.

Light refreshments will be served and admission is free and open to all women.

Wisconsinites gather Wisconsinites will gather at St. Bernard Catholic Church, at 248 S. Harbor Drive, Holmes Beach, Wednesday, Feb. 3, at 10 a.m., for their annual Wisconsin Day. The group meets every year on the Island, drawing transplants from nearby cities for a day of food, fun, music and socializing.

The cost is $5 per person, and the fun continues until around 2:30 p.m. It is the largest gathering of people from one state on Anna Maria Island. For more information, call Denny at 941907-6646 or Larry at 941-705-2450.

THE SUN

Make a shell valentine Swing for classical music The 13th Annual Jazz Festival will be held on Tuesday, Feb. 9, from 3 to 5 p.m. at the Sandbar restaurant pavilion at 100 Spring Ave. in Anna Maria.

All proceeds after expenses go toward the Anna Maria Island Community chorus and Orchestra AMICCO. Featured artists include the Gulf Drive Band, consisting of Judy Lynn, from Cleveland, on vocals, Ted Young, from Pittsburgh, on piano and Bil Bowdish, from Boston, on flute, sax and vocals, playing jazz favorites from the 1920s through the 1990s.

Multi talented performer Koko Ray Hansen will join the trio adding his saxophone and flute to the musical mix, at times playing two saxophones at once. Jazz Fest and the Oldies Beach Dance next month are the only time all these great artists perform together.

Tickets to Jazz Fest are available on a first come basis at the Anna Maria Island Chamber, 5313 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach; on Sundays at the Beach Market at Coquina Beach from Nancy Ambrose; or by calling Nancy at 941518-4431. Tickets are only $10 per person in advance (before noon Feb. 9) and $15 at the door, if available.

White Elephant Sale The Episcopal Women of the Church of the Annunciation have changed the way their annual White Elephant Sale is held.

The sale begins on Thursday, Feb. 4, from 4 to 6 p.m. Early shoppers will have to pay $5 admission. The next two days are free admission. The sale will start at 9 a.m. and end at 1 p.m. both days.

In addition to serving lunch, the women have made frozen dinners for sale, much like the chicken pot pies that have been popular in the past.

They also will be selling homemade pickles. Of course, there will be gently used items of all kinds for sales at bargain prices.

Proceeds from the sale will go to the Episcopal Church Women, a non-profit group serving the church..

Tour Robinson Preserve The wagon is back to take those who want to see Robinson Preserve, 1704 99th St. N.W. in Bradenton, up close.

The Manatee County Parks and Natural Resources Department is sponsoring the free rides in a covered wagon on Saturday, Feb. 6, from 9 to 10 a.m.

The tour guide will explain the preserve’s history, resident wildlife, flowers and describe preserve highlights. This program is suitable for all

ages. Arrive a minimum of 15 minutes in advance. Meet at the wagon loading ramp near the screened in pavilion.

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

Shop the beach The Beach Market at Coquina Beach offers shopping opportunities outside among the many unique vendors’ tables. The Coquina Café offers food and refreshments or there are vendors selling fresh produce, arts and crafts, jewelry, local artists, scarves, apparel, pottery, purses, health and beauty items and more. Anna Maria String Band performs from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The Beach Market is at 2650 Gulf Drive, S. Bradenton Beach at the trolley stop, concession stand area.

Manatee County does not allow dogs within the park. The market is wheelchair and stroller accessible. Contact Nancy Ambrose for more information 941-518-4431.

Protecting the environment The Manatee-Sarasota Sierra Club holds its Manatee Conservation Meeting, on Monday, Feb. 8, at 1:30 p.m., at the Bradenton Central Library 1301 Barcarrota Blvd. For information, contact Sandra Ripberger 941-794-3878 or sandrarip@yahoo.com.

Learn shell crafting at the Florida Maritime Museum, at 4415 119th St. W. in Cortez with a new series of shell craft classes. The first one on Tuesday, Feb. 9, at 10 a.m. features mini sailors’ valentines, made by seafarers to give to family and loved ones.

These unique gifts consist of an octagonal shaped shell mosaic, which is said to have originally been created inside a compass. Participants in this class will each make their sweetie a unique treasure. There is a $5 charge for supplies and participants must preregister by calling 941-708-6120

Inquiring Minds discuss Inquiring Minds meets each Tuesday from 4 to 5:30 p.m. at Gloria Dei Church, 6608 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. It is a cross-denominational religious study group that includes a 30-minute video presentation followed by discussion.

The approach is academic, not devotional. All are welcome. There is no charge. Inquiring Minds is inspired

by Anna Maria’s All Island Denominations. To receive weekly subject notification send an e-mail to amibible@aol. com.

Dancing at Sandpiper Irish Ceili and set dancing sessions will be held on Wednesdays, from 1 to 3 p.m. through the end of March at the Sandpiper Mobile Resort, 2601 Gulf Drive, Bradenton Beach. Beginners are welcome and there is no charge to attend, although they take donations to pay for the musicians. For more information, contact Judy at 941-779-1416.

Fashion show scheduled St. Bernard’s Women’s Guild will host its annual fashion show and luncheon on Thursday, Feb. 18, from noon to 2 p.m. in the activity center at St. Bernard’s, 248 S. Harbor Drive, Holmes Beach. This year’s theme is Flowers Friends and Fashions. A limited number of tickets is available.

No tickets will be sold at the door. For information ,call Connie Kihm at 410812-2468.

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FEBRUARY 3, 2016

Bike advocates eye county funds The three Island cities are working together on bicyclerelated improvements for visitors and residents.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

HOLMES BEACH – The Bike/Walk Anna Maria group has identified two potential funding sources that might assist in improving bike and pedestrian safety Island-wide.

During last month’s Island Transportation Planning Organization (ITPO) meeting, Bike/Walk Anna Maria chair Claudia Carlson suggested approaching Manatee County officials about the possible use of beach concession reserve revenues and tourist development funds generated by the county bed tax.

In regard to the county’s share of the revenue generated by the concessionaires at Manatee Beach Park and Coquina Beach, Carlson said, “There’s quite a bit of money in that fund.”

A report she received from County Commissioner John Chappie stated there was $697,549 in the concession reserves as of Nov. 30, with a projected fiscal year-end balance of $898,772.

“That may be a source of funding we could tap into,” Carlson said.

Bike/Walk Anna Maria is an informal organization working Islandwide to develop marked and mapped alternative bike routes, with an eye toward more expensive and extensive improvements projects further down the road.

Holmes Beach Mayor Bob Johnson asked Carlson what steps needed to be taken to pursue the beach concession funds. Carlson said a proposal would have to be presented to county officials and Lynn Burnett, who serves as the city engineer for all three Island cities, could assist with that process.

A resolution adopted by county commissioners in 2014 states: “It is in the best interest of the public health, safety and welfare of the county to establish guidelines for the use and distribution of surplus concession revenues.”

It also says concession revenues shall be used to fund public projects, studies and reports that serve a valid public purpose and benefit the entire Island. The recent Urban Land Institute study was funded with beach concession reserves.

To apply for these funds, the county requires a letter jointly executed by the three mayors stating their support for an intergovernmental project, a written description containing the particulars

joe hendricks | sun

Above, Holmes Beach resident Claudia Carlson, right, and City Engineer Lynn Burnett hope to secure county funds for bike safety improvements. These decals affixed atop the pavement designate bike lanes and bike routes of the proposed project, a statement as to why it meets the required criteria and a description of the matching funds to be provided by the participating cities. The resolution calls for one-time projects that do not require ongoing county funding or services.

Anna Maria Mayor Dan Murphy suggested Carlson and Burnett create a list of potential short-term and long-term projects and distribute that information to the three mayors.

Bradenton Beach Mayor Bill Shearon suggested this be done as soon as possible, and Murphy said the three mayors could meet on their own to execute the letter of agreement.

Murphy said the Anna Maria City Commission already approved $12,000 for the efforts being led there

by Amy Tripp. Tripp suggested beach concession funds be used to install bicycle path icons that mark the designated routes, and she noted that Sarasota County plans to install 22 miles of bike path icons.

As for using County Commissioncontrolled Tourist Development Council (TDC) funds, Carlson credited Ed Goff for the idea and said more research is needed. The mayors agreed those funds would be harder to get and would require more detailed planning, but might assist with larger projects.

Murphy said, “I can’t speak for Holmes Beach, but in Anna Maria we have a short stretch of path on Gulf Drive, and it can’t be avoided, but what I’d like to do is take the bicycles off of Gulf Drive at the earliest point we can. There’s women and children and little kids weaving in and out on bikes, and it’s just not a good environment.”

Owen said, “I know you don’t have real good bike paths, but Holmes Beach and Bradenton Beach do. To me it’s bringing more traffic and more people in our areas where we can’t handle it already.”

Johnson said his primary desire was to get bicyclists off Gulf Drive and Palm Drive.

“We essentially have three-foot bikes paths, which is totally unsafe,” he said, expressing particular concern for families and children who don’t typically ride in congested areas.

“I’m not complaining about the little kids, I don’t want them on Gulf Drive either, but if you’re going to designate a bike path, you’re going to get the racers also.” Owen concluded.

Johnson said he understood her concerns and stated the potential routes remained a work in progress.

Neighborhood concerns

Holmes Beach resident Sally Owen expressed concerns about bike routes running through residential neighborhoods.

“There’s already bike paths on Gulf Drive. Why aren’t they cleaned up and used as the designated bike paths?” she asked.

SUBMITTED

War honors From left to right: Judah P. Benjamin Chapter 1545 of the United Daughters of the Confederacy Registrar Sandy Boyes, Anna Maria resident Margaret Jenkins and Chapter 1545 President Peggy Veeder pose as Jenkins receives a certificate honoring her great grandfather, Theodore Brevard Haynes, for his service in the Confederate Army.

FEBRUARY 3, 2016

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33

Crane retains chair The Planning and Zoning Board will soon embark on a review of the city’s comprehensive plan.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA – Jonathan Crane has been reelected by his peers to serve another term as the chair of the city’s Planning and Zoning Board.

Crane, a former county attorney in Los Angeles, and his wife Dusty have lived in Anna Maria for almost four years. He joined the board as a regular member in 2013, and this will be his second term as chair.

“I have a lot of things in the works,” he said of his continued duties as the leader of the board.

“We’re getting organized to refuel the rewrite of the comprehensive plan,” he said, in reference to a two-year project that recent got underway, but has not yet led to any in-depth board discussion.

Crane has provided the board with some suggestions he would like to see included in the document that establishes the bigpicture vision and goals for future development and the manner and character in which the city grows.

Many of his suggestions pertain to an increased focus on bicyclists and pedestrians and the preservation of the city’s current character. Fellow-board member David Youngs would also like to see the city encourage providers to install fiber optic transmission lines that would allow for faster Internet connectivity and high resolution

joe hendricks | sun

Jonathan Crane will continue to chair the Anna Maria Planning and Zoning Board. video streaming.

“We are another set of eyes for the city commissioners,” Crane said of the board’s overall purpose. “Lately we’ve had a lot of ordinances that have gone through us. Sometimes the commission overturns what we recommend, but they often approve our suggestions.”

This was the case last week when the City Commission adopted a new ordinance that provides City Planner Alan Garrett with the initial authority to determine what constitutes a non-conforming lot, use or structure.

The ordinance called for the planning board to serve as the first line of appeal for those who disagree with Garrett’s determinations. Crane drafted amended language that among other things suggested the commission serve

as the second line of appeal for those who disagree with the planning board’s appellate decisions.

That language was incorporated into the ordinance on its first public hearing.

When asked why he dedicates his retirement time to this endeavor, Crane said, “We all do what we can with the limited resources the good Lord makes available to us. In a small community like this, people should volunteer at whatever they’re good at. I’m not much of a handyman, but I can read and write.”

Some who serve on planning boards aspire to one day serve as city commissioners. When asked if that might be in his future, Crane said, “I don’t want to run against anyone I like, but yeah, I would do that at some point.”

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THE SUN

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FEBRUARY 3, 2016

SUBMITTED

Healthy eating Two King Middle School students and AMI residents returned to Anna Maria Elementary School to teach about healthy eating.

Ella Bisio and Reagan Nevin taught third-grade students in Dr. Redeker’s class. The middle school students in AMI resident Jon Syre’s health occupations class taught the lesson as part of an upcoming medical skills competition.

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FEBRUARY 3, 2016

THE SUN

. . . e r u s s e Pier Pr ! e l y t S B O AM

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CORTEZ

941.792.0077 6696 Cortez Rd.

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JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

ELLENTON

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Housewives of Sarasota Longboat Key resident and D Coy Ducks regular Mary Gratehouse arrived at the Holmes Beach bar late Monday afternoon to film a three-minute network pitch for a possible Housewives of Sarasota television pilot. She was accompanied by her significant other, Larry Greenspon, cameraman Joey Durango and a few other friends. When Mary arrived, bartender Brad Lisk handed her a Marytini cocktail.

36

THE SUN

REAL ESTATE

FEBRUARY 3, 2016

Manatee County outpacing expectations

T

he economy is still struggling, the stock market is tanking and the price of oil may sound great, but is leaving everyone just a little nervous, so where is your money safe? Apparently the Sarasota and Manatee housing market which are soaring and outpacing predictions, seems a good bet.

Henry Fishkind, an economic consultant speaking recently at Manatee Technical College, predicts that Manatee County is on the brink of another great year in housing starts, job growth and domestic migration.

In 2015, Manatee County outpaced Sarasota County in population growth bringing in about 8,000 new residents. Fishkind also said that the construction of new homes in Manatee County is back to the same peak level as the prior boom, more than the rest of Florida indicating a higher demand here.

In addition, Manatee County has a competitive edge over Sarasota because of a lower price point on housing. In particular, Lakewood Ranch has created a

Castles in the Sand Louise Bolger lot of growth and has made it into the top 10 2015 master planned communities in the country. He indicates that it’s not just retirees moving into Manatee County, but workforce age people as well, which could set the pace for companies also relocating.

According to the Realtor Association of Sarasota and Manatee, the year 2015 “was one for the record books in real estate sales” in both counties. The combined counties closed out the year with an all time record of 20,691 closed transactions, which is 1,302 sales above last year’s numbers.

In Manatee County the number of closed sales for single family properties was down by 2.7 percent from December

last year, but the average and median sale prices were both up. Median sale price, where half the sales are above and half below, was up 11.9 percent over December of last year to $262,963, and the average sale price was up 21.4 percent from last December to $355,056.

Closed sales for condo and townhouses in Manatee were also down in December by 4.2 percent, and the average sales price was also down slightly by 0.6 percent to $215,705. The median sale price was up 6.1 percent to $178,249.

Inventory of available properties continued to decline, down 3.2 percent in Manatee County for single family homes, but condo inventory increased 4 percent.

Pending sales for December were down for single family homes by 10.1 percent and for condos by 1.4 percent. These numbers reflect the shortage of available properties, which are well below the six-month level that typically defines a normal market.

Manatee County currently has a 3.9

month’s supply of single family homes and a 4.3 month’s supply of condos.

Nationally, 2015 sales reached 5.26 million the highest annual level since 2006 according to the National Association of Realtors. However, nationally, inventories of existing homes fell 12 percent in December, ending with a 3.9 month’s supply, exactly the same as Manatee County, the lowest level in nearly 10 years. The national median home price rose to $224,100, up 7.6 percent from a year ago, marking the 46th consecutive month of year-over-year price gains. This is lower than Manatee’s median home price of $262,963, representing an 11.9 percent increase from last December.

As we get further into the winter selling season, it will become clearer if the current shortage of inventory continues pushing up selling prices in a competitive market.

Never-the-less be thankful for all of the positive real estate news and predictions for 2016. People always need a place to live with or without a stock portfolio.

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FEBRUARY 3, 2016

Call to artists for Pay exhibit The Anna Maria Island Art League is currently accepting submissions for the 22nd Annual James Pay exhibit in honor of Pay, an Art League founder.

The juried, open theme, all-media exhibit is open to all area artists in all media – painting, drawing, sculpture, jewelry and film and digital photography. Size restrictions are up to 22 inches by 34 inches.

Bring submissions to the

League, 5312 Holmes Blvd., Holmes Beach, between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. on Mondays, Wednesdays or Fridays no later than Friday, Feb. 5.

The entry fee is $20 per piece for Art League members and $30 per piece for non-members, with a limit of three entries per artist.

A free, public reception is scheduled on Friday, Feb. 12, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. The exhibit will run through the end of the month.

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

THE SUN

37

Free art demo Saturday A free art demonstration on gyotaku, or fish printing, will be offered by Brenda Alcorn on Saturday, Feb. 6, from 10:30 a.m. to noon at Island Gallery West, 5368 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach.

Seating is first come, first served.

For more information, visit www. islandgallerywest.com or call 941-778-6648.

submitted

Frank Creaturo exhibit at The Studio The public is invited to an opening reception for Sarasota artist Frank Creaturo at The Studio at Gulf and Pine on Saturday, Feb. 6, from 4 to 7 p.m.

His unique style shows through in both his contemporary painting and realistic people from the late 1930s to the 1950s. His contemporary works are full of colors and movements. He plays with the use of light, shadows and figures and has developed a new and personal style of organization of color.

In 2010, Creaturo was awarded for his Art and Contribution to the Community of Sarasota by the Ringling School of Art and Design, and in 2011, he was selected for “Who's Who in the United States.”

Asian watercolors at Cortez museum From left, artists Robin McDonald, Helen Searle, Susan Wu, Keiko Romerstein and Marilyn Offer at the opening of an exhibit of maritimethemed East Asian watercolor paintings at the Florida Maritime Museum in Cortez, in partnership with the Sumi-e Society of Sarasota. Visit the museum at 4415 119th St. W. in Cortez or http://floridamaritimemuseum.org.

SUBMITTED

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THE SUN

New visitor magazine and map available The 2016 VISIT FLORIDA magazine and official Florida transportation map are available by visiting www.

VISITFLORIDA.com/ guides or by calling 888-735-2872. Tourism organizations that wish to provide the publications to their visitors can place orders at www.visitflorida.org.

The magazine provides information on destinations, attractions, accommodations, shopping and dining and informative articles and images. The map, produced in conjunction with the Florida Department of Transportation, is the No. 1 requested publication in the stateâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Official Florida Welcome Centers.

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39

INVESTMENT: City policy approved FROM PAGE 30

already doing, but we’re just not doing it well.” he said.

The policy calls for the mayor to be in charge of investments and to oversee the financial department, with Percycoe ex-

ecuting investments and redemptions at his written approval. The finance department will report to the mayor monthly and to the commission annually.

Chambers said the city currently has approximately $75,000 in a Florida Prime account

that is very safe, but making little in return.

“The checking account at Wells Fargo that is earning virtually nothing has $2.6 million in it. That’s a lot of money that we’re leaving on the table,” he said, noting that this is the city’s second biggest asset.

“The biggest asset we have on the balance sheet, that’s the property we bought at Pine and North Bay,” he said of the property also known as City Pier Park, which the city bought for $2.8 million in 2011.

“If the city were to prepay that debt by a half million dollars, we would save $356,000 in interest between now and 2031, which is the maturity date. That’s about $24,000 a year. That’s significant when you compare it to what we’re trying to make on the excess cash we have” he said.

“If we invest $1 million at about a half percent interest rate, which is about what we’re going to get, we’ll make $5,000 a year.

By prepaying some debt, half a million dollars will get you $24,000 a year for 15 years. You have to remember, if you have a need for that half million dollars down the road, it’s not going to be there.

That’s the downside.

Commissioner Dale Woodland said the prepayment concept was a no-brainer, and the only question was whether to make the suggested $500,000 penalty-free payment or make a larger payment, where the money in excess of $500,000 would be subject to a 1 percent penalty.

No decisions were made on the prepayment proposal, but the commission unanimously approved the investment policies.

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parking: Permit ordinance approved FROM PAGE 1

being elitist, then so are all but a handful of communities in this entire state and on the whole Eastern seaboard.

“Almost every community takes steps to protect its residents from the real intrusion on their lives through parking. It’s time for the county to step up. We can’t bring all the people to the Island and then make it be on the backs of Holmes Beach.”

Commissioner Carol Soustek agreed and said, “It’s not the people that are the problem; it’s the amount of people. We have to get some help. Maybe we’ll get the county’s attention.

“The mayor said stop relying on other people to solve our problems; that’s what we’re trying to do. I want to get ahead of the curve.”

Chair Judy Titsworth, who opposes the plan, said what she loves about Holmes Beach and what makes if different is “the family nature, the friendliness, the welcoming.

“To me the ugliest thing ever is a sign saying permit parking only.

It takes away the soul of what is Anna Maria – a friendly, laid back

community. I just can’t wrap my head around it.”

Residents speak pro and con

James Kihm said he is in favor of the ordinance and praised “the good work done by the congestion committee” to develop and promote the ordinance.

Susan Timmons opposed the ordinance and said, “I used to live one block from the beach and had people parking there all the time.

We understood that we don’t own the right of way or street in front of our house.”

Anthony Niewijk said he has had “a lot of problems with parking.

The Island shouldn’t be a parking lot.”

Joe Christenson said the ordinance is necessary “to protect the quality of life in our neighborhoods” and that people in the neighborhood have requested it.

Sean Murphy opposed it and said Manatee County families have been coming to the Island for many years and the ordinance would exclude them.

“We won’t solve our congestion problem by limiting parking

on our streets that alienates our neighbors in town,” he stressed.

“We need to start looking for places for people to park in town and then moving them to the public beach.”

Don Hartsfield said he lives on Aqua Lane, and when the surfers show up to park “it’s a mess and it’s dangerous with people coming in and out and turning around in the middle of the street. I wonder how the fire truck could get through.

“You’ve got a lot of interest here.

Help us and enact this program and give it a try. What have you got to lose?”

Marilyn Manser said, “If you want people to come and live here, you have to solve some of these problems. Let’s give it a try. There’s no harm in that. If it doesn’t work, it doesn’t work.”

The vote to approve the ordinance was 3/2 with Titsworth and Commissioner Pat Morton dissenting. Mayor Bob Johnson vowed to veto the ordinance, and on Friday, he presented his arguments in accordance with the city charter.

(See related article front page).

veto: Mayor opposes ordinance FROM PAGE 1

with his/her reasons for disapproval. However, the commission may override the mayor by a vote of four members.

In a press release, Johnson said, “I disapprove and return herein subject ordinance for the following reasons and as stated in my comments at the commission meeting Dec. 10, 2015: • Given the documented low frequency of high intensity parking occurrences, a residential parking permit approach is unnecessarily more expensive and complex to implement and enforce than alternative traffic engineering solutions.

• It is contrary to what has been the nature of this Island coastal space through its history to date.

• It is contrary to our other Island municipalities with whom we share this limited 2 ½ square miles of sand.

• It is contrary to the desires of this administration and commission to retain a family focused, inclusive and welcoming community for all who come to share and enjoy."

It is contrary to what has been the nature of this Island coastal space through its history to date.”

Bob Johnson Mayor

Backup material

In the press release packet, Johnson submitted the statement he made at the commission workshop on Dec. 12 in which he pointed out that the Island Congestion Committee (ICC) was convened in 2013 to address traffic congestion and parking issues during holidays, weekends and season. From September 2012 to August 2013 there were only 52 calls for parking concerns.

He said in November 2014, the ICC became a “no parking in my neighborhood advocacy group.” It presented a report on proposals for solutions, including the permit plan in a test area, that were “anecdotal, without substance or scope of degree of impact.”

The police department conducted a parking survey in the test area from March to June 2015,

which showed that the peak use of right of way parking spaces was 25 to 40 percent on holidays and 0 to 15 percent on normal weekdays.

Staff then developed an alternate to the ICC’s plan, which addressed the intensity issue and provided relief for residents, while being simple, inexpensive and easy to enforce.

In his statement, Johnson concluded, “It is not time to say, after all these years, this place is going to be exclusive to those few who are here now. I did not run for mayor to see this city become exclusionary.”

He also presented data from the parking surveys and a comparison of options for reducing parking intensity.

FEBRUARY 3, 2016

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FEBRUARY 3, 2016

THE SUN

41

tom vaught

These are some of the items Jay Disbrow, of Bradenton, won in the Anna Maria Island Sun's Football Fever.

Fever winner takes home the prize Jay Disbrow, of Bradenton, collected his winnings last week from the 2015 Football Fever contest – a $50 gift certificate from the Bridge Tender Inn, a $50 gift certificate from the Swordfish Grill, a $50 gift certificate from Flippin’ Mullet, a $25 gift certificate from Slim’s Place, a one-month membership and two free training sessions from Island Fitness.

Other winnings included a wool Heritage Banner from AMI Sports Zone, a T-shirt and gift basket from Bortell’s. He also

received a gift certificate for two, a pair of Budweiser chairs and a bicycle from Island Time Bar and Grill. Island Time also gave him a two-night stay at Island Time Inn. Bridge Street Jewelers gave him a custom made AMI Destination Bracelet, and Island Scooter Rentals gave a longsleeve surfing shirt, use of a scooter for two people for two days, use of a kayak for two for one day, two bicycles for one day, two paddle boards for a half day and two boogie boards for a half day.

2110 Palma Sola Boulevard Bradenton Linda Dickson

A4141425 $2,349,000 941-224-1337 941-388-4447

Familiar Faces Exceptional Service International Relationships AC,CITY,ADR,OH,OHEAD

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Coloring: It's not just for kids Approximately 17 people showed up at the Island Branch Library on Wednesday, Jan. 13, for the inaugural coloring session for adults. Library assistant Courtney DeSear came up with the idea saying other libraries in the New York area had them.

The attendees were vacationers and retirees looking for something new to do and from the looks on their faces, they found it. DeSear said she thought it would enable them to use their imaginations and it didn’t matter if they colored inside the spaces or not.

DeSear placed some black and white drawings out for them to color, while some brought their own. One participant, Violet Meaker, was vacationing from West Virginia and staying at the Har-

3924 Riverview Boulevard Bradenton Jody Shinn

M5904083 $1,399,000 720 Penfield Street Longboat Key 941-705-5704 941-748-6300 Cathy Meldahl

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216 81st Street W Bradenton Judy LaValliere

M5903622 $1,350,000 711 Hillcrest Drive Bradenton 941-504-3792 941-748-6300 Pam Taylor

AC,CITY,ADR,OH,OHEAD

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A4137120 $1,395,000 941-724-7228 941-383-5502

A4140670 $1,200,000 941-920-2301 941-748-6300

TOM VAUGHT | SUN

Clockwise from left, Bev McCarthy, Violet Lambert and Jackie Meaker color black and white drawings at the Island Branch Library. rington House Bed and Breakfast. She said this was her second winter vacationing there.

As the artists worked on their projects, they answered positively when asked if they were having fun and they all said they would come back next month, if they could.

“Right now we’re doing this once a month,” she told the people. “If we continue to get a good turnout, we’ll schedule it for twice a month.”

It appears they proved a point that DeSear made when she advertised the event: Coloring isn’t just for kids.

4567 Bay Club Drive 28 Bradenton Adam Cuffaro

AC,CITY,ADR,OH,OHEAD

A4131218 $619,000 112 26th Street NW Bradenton 941-812-0791 941-752-2683 Kim Jatich & Deborah Woods

A4133718 $5 99,000 504-3874 or 374-0871 941-748-6300

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8016 18th Avenue W Bradenton A4130414 $435,000 3420 Wild Oak Bay Boulevard 116 Bradenton A4133926 $399,000 Timothy P. Field, P.A. Saint Cacchiotti, P.A. 941-350-0332 941-809-0787 941-383-7591 Leah Secondo 941-545-4430 941-748-6300

michaelsaunders.com • 4400 Manatee Avenue W • Bradenton, FL • 941.748.6300

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THE SUN

SPORTS

FEBRUARY 3, 2016

LPAC takes the win against Tyler’s Ice Cream

BY MONICA SIMPSON SPECIAL TO THE SUN

In gridiron action at the Center on Tuesday, Jan. 26, the match-up between Tyler’s Ice Cream and LPAC started out as a close back and forth defensive battle between the two middle school teams. To start the game LPAC ran the offense, but was stopped on the first play with a strong flag pull by Andrew Zoller after a short run by Cired Cablish.

Cole Pearson, known for his spinning moves on the field, made a 10-yard run, but the play was called back for flag guarding by Pearson. In the third down attempt, LPAC’s quarterback Colby Petrin made long throw that was nearly intercepted by Tyler’s Connor Ludwig.

Tyler’s Ice Cream took over possession with 18 minutes on the clock. Its first play was a double reverse behind the line of scrimmage with Zoller getting the ball for the run for no gain. Quarterback Alex McCauly threw a bomb that went just off the fingertips of Zoller. A second incomplete pass ended Tyler’s offensive run.

Pearson made short yardage on the ground, taking it to second down for LPAC. Strong defensive pressure by the rusher resulted in a quick pass by Petrin. The incomplete pass and heavy coverage defense by Tyler’s gave it another offensive opportunity.

With defensive strategy by both teams and incomplete passes by both quarterbacks, field advancement was kept to a minimum for the firs 10 minutes of the game. Mixing it up on offense, Tyler’s Ice Cream’s quarterback found Thomas Heckler down field for a catch and run after for 10 yards.

With a trick play, the center Ludwig received the ball behind his back gaining rushing yardage just short of the first down. Tyler’s lined up for the third down play for what looked like a short yardage play for the easy first down. Instead, the quarterback threw deeper down field to Evan Christenson, who spun to elude defenders for extra yardage.

Heckler gained seven yards, getting his team closer to the end zone on first down.

On third down, the quarterback found Ludwig just past the goal line taking the score to 6-0 with 5:45 left on the clock. Ludwig was left wide open in the middle of the end zone for the point after.

LPAC quickly answered back on the first play of the down. What seemed to be a broken play resulted in a deep and run by Cablish to take the score to 7-6. Pearson scored the extra point tying the ballgame 7-7.

On the first play of the possession, the pass to Ava Alderson was intercepted by Petrin.

Petrin’s run back resulted in negative yardage for LPAC. The first pass attempt to Pear-

monica simpson | SUN

Above, Tyler’s Ice Cream Quarterback Alex McCauly scrambles from defenders Cole Pearson and Mike Pears for LPAC. Right, Andrew Zoller for Tyler’s Ice Cream reaches to make a defensive flag pull to stop LPAC’s Ethan Breslin. son near the end zone was just over his head.

Dancing behind the line of scrimmage, Petrin slipped and fell to end the second down play with one minute left in the game. LPAC’s third down attempt was a bobbled handoff behind the line of scrimmage by Pearson.

With less than a minute left in the half, Tyler’s Ice Cream attempted to put together an offensive run to get more points on the board. Michael Pears made a nice flag pull on Zoller for LPAC. The third down attempt

by Tyler’s was stopped with a sack by Pearson to end Tyler’s possession.

Pearson made a seven-yard run before his flags were pulled by Christenson and Alderson. LPAC’s quarterback tossed the ball short to Pearson behind the line of scrimmage. Pearson quickly got the ball back to the QB for long pass to Cablish with 10 seconds left gaining the first down.

In a similar play, Pearson got the ball to Clabish, who threw to Petrin in the corner of end zone for a touchdown, advancing the score to 7-13 for LPAC. The point after attempt was not successful.

Tyler’s Ice Cream tried to capitalize on another offensive attempt with three seconds left on the clock. The long pass by the quarterback was intercepted by Cablish to end the half.

The second half of play started with Tyler’s with the ball and a botched hand off to Heckler for a loss of three yards. The behind the back play to Ludwig gained short yardage.

Tyler’s quarterback could not find his receiver on third down. LPAC took over on downs.

After short yard gains, the third down play found Pearson with the ball. During his run

after the short pass, Pearson’s flag fell off.

His run was stopped with a two-hand touch

by Maddie Rogers to end LPAC’s possession.

Rallying back, Alderson nabbed the ball on a short pass and broke away to run the football the length of the field finding the end zone to tie the game 13-13. Tyler’s could not convert on the extra point.

The tough defense of Heckler on Pearson resulted in an incomplete pass for LPAC. Pearson was not to be stopped. The whirling dervish spun for a touchdown despite a holding penalty. With a failed extra point attempt, the score remained at 13-19.

Tyler’s tried to come back on the next set of downs, but could not connect on offense.

On their next drive, Pearson once again scored both the touchdown and extra point widening the score gap.

With sx minutes left on the clock, Tyler’s Ice Cream regained possession hoping to take the game within six points. In a desperate third down attempt Ethan Breslin intercepted the pass at Tyler’s 15-yard line.

As the clock ticked down, Tyler’s Ice Cream saw its hopes of winning the game slipping through its fingers with the final score of the game by Pearson resulting in the final score of 13-32 and a win for LPAC.

Sun Scoreboard Monday, Jan. 25 8- to 10-year-old league

Bark and Company ReMax Heidi Johnston 6

Tyler’s Ice Cream Eason Builders

Tuesday, Jan. 26 11- to 13-year-old league Progressive Energy Sugar Beach Digital

6 33

Tyler’s Ice Cream LPAC

13 32

West Coast A/C & Heating, Inc. Truly Nolan

12 20

Air & Energy The Feast

46 8

Friday, Jan. 29 8- to 10-year-old league Beach Bums AMI Vacation Rentals

14- to 17-year-old league 25

20 6

34 12

Team Cuva Team Mannino

18 37

Team Snyder LPAC

8 33

FEBRUARY 3, 2016

WWW.AMISUN.COM - CELEBRATING 15 YEARS

THE SUN

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Peelen gives Home Sweet Home update The group has a Website, ourannamaria.com, where residents can share stories about living on the Island.

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

HOLMES BEACH – Commissioner Jean Peelen recently gave her board an update on the efforts of Home Sweet Home, a grassroots organization dedicated to bring residents to the Island and encouraging current residents to remain.

She said the group has a Website, ourannamaria.com, where residents can share stories about living on the Island, and the group encourages people to share their stories.

“We’re working with area publications to write articles about living on Anna Maria,” she said. “We’re working with the Bradenton Herald to produce an AMI life supplement on why you would want to live here.”

She said the group also is working with the Anna Maria Island and Manatee chambers of commerce to encourage corporations, hospitals and universities that hire people from out of state to present material about living on the Island.

PAT COPELAND | SUN

From left, Paula Olivera, Vicki Keasey and Judy Ward manned a booth at a recent arts and crafts festival on the city field and distributed brochures for the group.

They also are establishing a welcome wagon to support people who move here.

The group has developed the following effort areas and welcomes volunteers: • Connections: To support new residents and to create relationships with real estate agencies and chambers of commerce to reach out to

companies moving to the area and support their employees; • Promotion: To create and distribute print materials; • Media: To create blogs, Websites, Facebook pages and other social media and ask families to share their stories of living and raising a family on the Island.

TOM VAUGHT | SUN

Senior Adventures Sale Members of Senior Adventures and customers eat lunch after a busy yard sale Friday morning. The crowds were large because the group was selling contents of two houses whose owners moved away. By the time they served lunch, there wasn’t much merchandise left.

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THE SUN

FUN IN THE SUN

Across 1 Washington music festival named for a legend 10 Prima __ case 15 Apprehended 16 Old Bristol-Myers dental product 17 Hot spot 18 __ panel 19 Autocrats of old 20 Sports radio host Patrick 21 Meteorological conditions 22 Finalist-to-be's hurdle 23 Indian silk-producing region 25 Biting 26 Remove chemically 28 __ rod 30 Miner matters 34 Slamming door, perhaps 35 Bouvier __ Flandres: herding dog 36 Way of the East 37 1998 title role for Angelina 38 __ loss 39 Code word 40 Traveler's alternative 43 Unsettling sort 45 Ordered room service, e.g.

46 Dispense, with "out" 47 "A Town Like Alice" novelist 49 Title VII enforcer: Abbr.

53 Where the action is

55 Altar on high 56 Chevy Corvair option, briefly 57 __ Stone, winningest woman coach in college hockey 58 Unsportsmanlike conduct 60 Eiffel Tower level 61 Like some pliers 62 Curly-coated cats 63 Masseur's concern Down 1 Scrutinizes 2 Absinthe flavoring 3 "Git!" 4 Asked 5 Carrier's org.

6 A&P part: Abbr.

7 Fungus usually considered poisonous 8 Holders for holders?

9 Shenzi, Banzai or Ed, in "The Lion King" 10 Kind of yr.

11 Like some nerve cells 12 Multicolored pet Answers to 01-27-16 Crossword Puzzle.

13 Words betraying lack of readiness 14 Sea lion, for one 23 Some domestic workers 24 Broadway offering 27 Infernal flower?

29 Kirin competitor 30 One working on lines 31 Continue to stress 32 Heir's headache, maybe 33 Words before taking off 41 Bullish 42 Slightly ahead of 44 Back out 48 "... tell'st me where thou __ this ring": Shak.

50 Irregularly notched 51 Mellow winds 52 They're easily caught 54 All those in favor 56 Newcastle's river 59 Current "American Dad!" airer

FEBRUARY 3, 2016

FEBRUARY 3, 2016

classified

ANNOUNCEMENTS BEACH YOGA ON Saturdays & Sundays at 8:30am at the end of Pine Ave by the Sandbar Restaurant by donation. www. thriveyogafit.com THE BEST VOLUNTEER position on the island. The AMI Historical Museum needs docents and bread makers. Call Dusty at 941779-7688.

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

BABY SITTER RED CROSS CERTIFIED baby sitter. Honor student.

Call or text Isabel 941-5457995

BOATS: PARTS & SERVICES & SALES ISLAND BOAT SALES. We Are Busy-Need more Boats! 16 Years, Hundreds of Boats Sold. “Business On A Hand Shake.” We Also Buy Boats. www.islandboatsales.net Call Dave 941-228-3489 BOAT SLIPS FOR RENT. Up to 60 feet. Two minutes to Intracoastal Waterway by Cortez, Parrot Cove Marina 941-795-0088

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

Call us today! 941-778-3986

PRESSURE WASHING AND WINDOWS residential, commercial & resorts. Roofs, buildings, houses, driveways etc.

Call 941-251-5948

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

ROSER THRIFT SHOP and ANNEX: Open 9:30 am. – 2 pm. Tuesday, Thursday and Friday, 10am.-1pm Saturday. Donations accepted 9-11a.m. Wednesdays 511 Pine Ave., Anna Maria 941-779-2733 PARADISE BAY CRAFT and Hobby Bazaar.

Saturday February 6.

10315 Cortez Rd W. 9 am -1pm. Hand Made Crafts, Bake Sale, White Elephant Sale. Luncheon served

HOME IMPROVEMENTS

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

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

Neil 941-726-3077

COMPUTER SERVICES

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

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

EMPLOYMENT SEASONAL DAY TIME Help Needed for Scott's Deli. Apply 5337 Gulf Dr Suite 300, Holmes Beach.

FOR SALE AMTRACK TRAIN VOUCHERS for up to $2400 that must be used by September, 2016. Negotiable Voucher Values. Call 941778-4074 BLACK & DECKER LAWN Hog. Electric 19" mulching mower 875DE 48cm.

New $334 Sale $150. Desk mirror whitewash. $20. Call 941-778-7741

GARAGE, MOVING, RUMMAGE & YARD SALES SALE NIKI’S GIFT & ANTIQUE SHOP 5351 Gulf Dr, Holmes Beach. All Sterling Jewelry 20% to 50% off.

Second room 50% off on great costume designer jewelry. Back room huge sale on merchandise 25% to 80% off. Dealer leaving.

Great prices. Great clothes from India. Driftwood pieces 50% off. Open 7 days 9:30am-5pm.

KERN CONSTRUCTION NEW Homes & Remodel.

Design/Build. Since 1968.

License # CRC1327296.

Call Jerry Kern 941-5042222 www.kernconstructioninc.com “HONEY DO" HOME Repairs & Handyman Services.

35 yrs experience. Painting, drywall, tile, woodwork. All tasks. Call 941-896-5256 or 941-807-5256 www.honeydohomerepairinc.com HOME IMPROVEMENT Michigan General Contractor 30+ yrs. experience. Large or small projects. Budget minded knowledgeable tradesman will complete your project start to finish: On Time/On Budget. Call Mike 616-204-8822.

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

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

THE SUN

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

LOST & FOUND FOUND BERNAFON CN9 N Hearing Aid for the right ear at Ace Hardware Store on Wed, Nov 18. 3352 East Bay Dr, Holmes Beach or Call 941-778-0999 ROMI IS A 10 year old female black and white, long fluffy haired Manx cat (bob tailed). She has a collar and is micro chipped.

She was last seen near Jacaranda and Alamandra on the North end of Anna Maria Island. Romi is an indoor cat. Reward offered.

Please contact Ana at 813417-3522 MISSING BLACK AND WHITE male cat. Lucky is deaf and 15 years old.

He was last seen on 2nd St in Bradenton Beach where he has lived outdoors for 4 years.

Reward. Heartbroken.

941-730-7052 LOST CAT “FIDO” He adopted us 16 years ago. His turf is in the area of 5392 Gulf Dr. near Time Saver and Niki’s . Has collar with a bell, chipped by Animal Clinic. If found please call 941-518-6329.

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

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

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

941-812-0507

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

WalyPrecisionPainting.com “WIZARD OF WALLS” Established 1980 Prompt quality service.

Paperhanging/removal Faux finishes. Interior painting. Mary Bell 941794-0455 DONALD PERKINS PAINTING LLC fully insured. 30 years experience. Many Island references. Call 941-7057096

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

REAL ESTATE HOMES & CONDOS FOR SALE LOOKING FOR A highly motivated real estate broker to buy or sell your next home? Darcie Duncan, Broker of Duncan Real Estate is a lifelong island resident bringing success to her customers for 26 years.

Proven track record that brings you results! 941725-1589 FOR SALE 1 BLOCK from Beach. 1/2 of duplex.

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

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

Brokers protected 813892-3690

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DISCOVER THE OTHER ISLAND! Tidy Island in Sarasota Bay. Beautiful Townhouse w/direct bay views! 3BR/2.5 BA/ 2 CG with private swimming pool. Open plan.

Pet friendly. $699,000 Katharine Pepper RoseBay Intl 941-792-9459 1BR/1BA CONDO FOR SALE 1000sf Water view, 2 blocks from Beach, Elevator, 2 heated pools, Tennis courts, under building parking. Corner unit, updated, furnished Great Location. $259,900. Call 810-8130391 or 941-778-2042 EXCELLENT OFF-ISLAND Investment Commercial Office Condo. 5306 Cortez W (directly across from Wal-Mart). FSBO $169,900.

Call 941-962-8220

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

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

Tile throughout. Large storage area & carport, washer & dyer. $1500/ mo + utilities. First, last & security. Credit check. Call 941-778-3427 HOLMES BEACH 2BR/1BA Duplex. 900+ sq.ft. Nice & Clean. New appliances, W/D hookups. $1400/ mo + utilities. First, Last & one month security. Credit check. 1 year lease. Call 941-809-2488 ANNUAL UNFURNISHED 2BR/2BA in Shell Point; Holmes Beach. W/D, carport, storage room, community pool & tennis court. Call A Paradise 941778-4800

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THE SUN

classified

RENTALS: ANNUAL

HOLMES BEACH YEARLY Rental 3BR/3BA. Two houses from Gulf. Large Lot. Call 941-778-0426

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

ANNUAL RENTAL ANNA MARIA Island Furnished 2BR/2BA Condo "upscale", "water view", $2300/mo +Electric 1650/sq.ft. Price includes cable prime, garbage removal, use of tennis courts, pool/ Jacuzzi. First, Last & one month security. Credit check. Available April 5, 2016. Call 813-3625881.

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!

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

MARTINIQUE SOUTH BEACH condo for rent. Awesome beach views. Pool, tennis, fully equipped. Available through February 29, 2016.

1BR/1BA. Call 810-7308604

VACATION RENTALSFebruary/March 2016 availability. Monthly and weekly. Contact Fran Maxon Real Estate 941778-2307.

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

Call 800-301-4816. amitaxi4u@gmail.com, www. amitaxi.com ROGER'S AIRPORT SERVICE. Tampa, St. Pete/ Clearwater, Sarasota/ Bradenton. Call Roger 941773-1469 ANYTIME TRANSPORTATION to all airports, appointments, shopping, etc. Tampa $60. Sarasota $30. Pets welcome. Very dependable. Reasonable rates. Contact Jeanne.

941-779-5095

Call us today! 941-778-3986 FEBRUARY 3, 2016

www.amisun.com

FEBRUARY 3, 2016

business & service directory computer service

home improvement

THE SUN

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

home improvement

transportation

movers

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THE SUN

WWW.AMISUN.COM - CELEBRATING 15 YEARS

FEBRUARY 3, 2016