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VOL 17 No. 38
July 5, 2017
Planning board review questioned The Bridge Tender Inn is trying to update its permitting to allow for the outdoor seats in use at its Dockside Bar. BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
Second pier firm dismissed mike field | SUN
City officials are still in pursuit of a firm to design, permit and possibly reconstruct the Anna Maria City Pier that requires complete rehabilitation.
BRADENTON BEACH – City Attorney Ricinda Perry issued a 1,900-word memo last week addressing concerns raised about the Planning and Zoning Board’s review of the Bridge Tender Inn’s efforts to bring its Dockside Bar into compliance with city code. After attending the board’s July 21 meeting, Vice Mayor John Chappie requested a memo that clarified the general meeting policies and procedures. Perry’s June 29 memo noted she was also contacted after the hearing by certified land planner Darenda Marvin and attorneys from the Grimes Goebel law firm that represent Bridge Tender Inn owner Fred. Bartizal. They questioned whether some elements of the review should have been conducted in a quasi-judicial manner that would have been more formal and restrictive than the far-reaching legislative review that was chaired by John Burns and overseen by City Planner Alan Garrett. “These questions revealed that those who were making land use decisions need to be fully educated and informed on land use procedures and the rules of fair play. Elected officials were present at the hearing and were likewise concerned,” Perry’s memo said. On behalf of Bartizal, Marvin sought a board recommendation for the City Commission to approve the small-scale comp plan amendment and major development application that would update the Dockside Bar’s seating capacity from the 24 seats permitted in 2012 to see review, page 26
The firm's projected cost was too high for the mayor and commission. BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
ANNA MARIA – During an emergency meeting called by Mayor Dan Murphy, the City Commission decided Monday morning not to enter into negotiations with Taylor Engineering to design and permit the rehabilitation of the Anna Maria City Pier. The sudden turn of events came as somewhat of a surprise because Murphy and City Planner Robin Meyer had been complimentary of the Sarasotabased engineering firm when recently updating the commission on the preliminary discussions with Taylor representatives.
INSIDE NEWS OPINION Sun survey OUTDOORS REAL ESTATE SPORTS POLICE REPORTS CROSSWORD
4 6 7 22-23 28-33 34 35 36
In the end, it came down to cost. On Monday morning, Murphy told the commission that Taylor’s estimated price came in at a maximum of $526,348, not including construction administration or design and permitting of a water taxi berth, which he felt was too expensive for this initial phase of the project. Murphy said while the Taylor quote offered more details concerning deliverables of the project, the cost of services was consistently high in all areas. “Half a million dollars is not within the scope of what we can do,” he said. “The city can’t afford it.” The selection process is guided by the state statute known as the Consultants’ Competitive Negotiation Act. Taylor Engineering, as the city’s second highest ranked firm, was the second firm to engage in prelimsee pier, page 27
The postal center
stays open in Holmes Beach. 4
Anna Maria Island, Florida
Joe Hendricks | Sun
Shown here during Wednesday afternoon trivia, the Bridge Tender Inn’s Dockside Bar needs additional permitting to be fully compliant with city code.
another DEATH ON THE WATER ON ANNA MARIA ISLAND.
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Take a fishing trip to magical
Matlacha. 22 The Island’s award-winning weekly newspaper
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Environmental planning manager resigns Joel Christian played a key role in reviewing the potential wetland impacts associated with proposed Aqua by the Bay project. BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
BRADENTON – A county staff member who played a key role in the initial review of the Aqua by the Bay development plans has resigned, and this contributed to the Manatee County Planning Commission’s second review of the project being delayed until August. On Monday, June 12, Joel Christian, manager for the environmental planning section of the Building and Development Services Department resigned via e-mail sent to his supervisor, John Barnott. “I appreciate your leadership as director in the time that I have had the pleasure to serve in your department. This resignation is effective at your discretion. Please contact me if there is anything I can do to help with transitioning. Thank you for all you have
done for my career and me personally,” Christian wrote. He had been with the county for several years. Christian’s resignation came two days after he was arrested in Holmes Beach on Saturday, June 10, on suspicion of driving under the influence, possession of a small amount of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia. At approximately 1:37 a.m., an officer watched Christian’s truck turn east off Gulf Drive and onto Manatee Avenue, accelerate at a high rate of speed and struggle to maintain his lane. The officer clocked him going 80 in a 35-mph zone in the 700 block of Manatee Avenue, pulled him over and arrested him.
Aqua by the Bay review
During the Planning Commission’s original review of the Aqua by the Bay development plans on April 13, Christian supported the developer’s claim that all wetland impacts associated with the proposed development would occur landward of the mangroves and would have no impact on the coastal mangroves or the seagrasses in Sarasota Bay. He said staff originally had
joe hendricks | SUN
Joel Christian discusses the Aqua by the Bay development with County Commissioners during the May 4 land use meeting. concerns about the man-made estuary enhancement area and concrete retaining wall that would run parallel to the shoreline, between the mangroves and the development, but he now viewed those elements as beneficial to the project. He expressed support for the project’s approval as proposed. He expressed similar support during the Manatee County Commission land
use meeting on May 4. That meeting resulted in commissioners remitting the development requests back to the Planning Commission based on additional information requested from the developers pertaining to building heights, building locations and the number of 145-foot and 75-foot (now 95-foot) high-rise condominium buildings being proposed. The developers have since told county staff they plan to build four 145-foot buildings and as many up to a dozen 95-foot tall buildings, depending on market conditions. In the wake of Christian’s sudden resignation, the Building and Development Department is now in the process of contracting an outside firm to assist with the Planning Commission review on Thursday, Aug. 10, and the County Commission review on Wednesday, Aug. 16. On Tuesday, June 27, Planning Section Manager Nicole Knapp said the outside firm had not yet been selected. The contracted experts must quickly get up to speed on the project and their professional opinions may coincide or contrast with Christian’s.
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ISLAND NEWS
in brief
City considers church property purchase Holmes Beach commissioners are considering purchasing two parcels of property owned by Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, but it needs two appraisals first. Mayor Bob Johnson asked commissioners to authorize a $3,000 expenditure for a second appraisal. The need for two property appraisals is due to the potential amount of the purchase. Florida statute 125.355 requires governing bodies to obtain two appraisals for any property purchases over $500,000. Commissioner Marvin Grossman said rather than spend the money on a second appraisal, he would rather wait to see what the results of the first appraisal are to determine if the purchase is something the city wants to pursue. Commissioner Carol Soustek said she would like to go ahead with the second appraisal. Commissioners agreed to move the matter to a future meeting agenda for further discussion.
Commissioners approve stormwater contract Holmes Beach commissioners want the city’s stormwater improvement project to continue. During the June 27 meeting, commissioners unanimously approved a $290,000 contract with Woodruff and Sons, Inc. to continue work on the stormwater drainage system improvements and replacement through fiscal year 2017-18. City Engineer Lynn Burnett said the project is already budgeted and planned through the next three fiscal years. The project covers the installation of stormwater trenches, repair to existing pipes and the installation of WaStop inline check valves at outflows to allow water out but keep it from backing up in the pipes during high tides.
Visit Florida budget increased
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JULY 5, 2017
Holmes Beach post office changes hands
The Holmes Beach post office is open and ready for customers. BY KRISTIN SWAIN SUN STAFF WRITER | kswain@amisun.com
HOLMES BEACH — The Holmes Beach Contract Postal Unit is open regular hours and the new proprietor is seeking new ways to help meet the needs of the community. The search for a new operator went almost to the 11th hour with the community anxiously awaiting the fate of the contract post office location. Holmes Beach resident Laura Ritter, with the help of friends Diana Rowe and Linda Bell, along with long-time postal employee Sue Phillips, stepped up to the challenge. “I wanted to help save the post office to maintain the services for the community,” Ritter said. “There’s a real sense of community here.” Though Ritter, who manages advertising at the Longboat Observer, said she has no experience in the postal service, she’s excited to learn from Phillips, who’s been with the Holmes Beach post office for
Kristin Swain | Sun
From left: friends Diana Rowe and Linda Bell join forces with new proprietor Laura Ritter to help keep the Holmes Beach post office operating at its current location, 5354 Gulf Drive. nine years. “There’s a routine here,” Phillips said of the post office. Her hope is that by staying on, she can assist Ritter with learning the ins and outs of the postal business and provide some continuity for customers.
Florida legislators have raised the funding allocation for Visit Florida, the state’s tourism marketing agency, back to $76 million, the original amount requested by Gov. Rick Scott before the 2017 Legislative session. The Legislature had proposed cutting the budget to $25 million, citing secret contracts and other operational irregularities in the agency; Scott had countered with a request for $100 million.
Zen and Ink class at Art League The Anna Maria Island Art League, 5312 Holmes Blvd., in Holmes Beach, will host a Zen and Ink class with instructor Tammy Bills on Friday, July 14, from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Bills is a certified therapeutic recreation specialist who holds a minor in art. She has worked with diverse clientele in private practice, clinical, residential and educational settings. The cost is $25 for Art League members and $45 for nonmembers. Scholarships may be available. Call the Art League at 941-778-2099 for more details and to sign up. The Art League is open Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Kristin Swain | Sun
Long-time post office employee Sue Phillips helps a customer over the phone July 1 during opening day of the Holmes Beach Post Office under its new ownership.
Rowe, a commercial real estate agent from Atlanta who recently relocated permanently to Holmes Beach, is excited to assist Ritter with the new venture. “We really just wanted to save the post office,” she said. In addition to offering postal services, Ritter said she would like to offer other needed services to the community in lieu of a gift shop in the front section of the location. Ideas she’s currently considering are offering business and tourism services including high-volume printing services, area information and internet service. She said it’s important to her to use the space to offer services the community feels are needed without trying to compete with existing businesses. To help gauge community interest, Ritter said she’s like to have input from residents and visitors. “Tell us what you want services you want,” she said. The Holmes Beach post office is open 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday and 9 a.m. to noon on Saturdays.
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Commissioners voice center worries Holmes Beach city commissioners discuss their fears for the future of the Center of Anna Maria Island. BY KRISTIN SWAIN SUN STAFF WRITER | kswain@amisun.com
HOLMES BEACH — Commissioners are concerned about the future of The Center of Anna Maria Island, particularly with the organization’s financial plan and transparency. Commissioner Carol Soustek, the Holmes Beach liaison to the Center, related her experience from the nonprofit’s June 21 board meeting. “I walked away feeling very disappointed,” she said during a June 27 commission meeting. Soustek added that she’s concerned with the lack of costcutting and clear financial direction for the future. “I think they try very hard but it’s too much for them,” she said. “The cuts nowhere near make up the deficit.” The Center’s fiscal year ended June 30 with board Treasurer Jim Froeschle projecting a more than $230,000 loss for the year.
Soustek said she doesn’t feel there’s any corruption, just that the organization cannot “live within its means” without cutting programming, something the board members weren’t willing to agree to at this point. “I went away expecting the doors to be closed in 2018,” she said. “There’s no way they can continue like this.” Commission Chair Judy Titsworth said she would be concerned for the community if the Center does close because she feels it and the programs provided by the organization are an asset that encourages permanent residents to come back to the Island. “My biggest problem right now is that I’m not hearing empathy,” she said. “We need to have hope.” Titsworth said she feels if the Island cities donate to the Center it will encourage community members to donate as well. “They didn’t do anything malicious or wrong,” she said. “They tried. They had to make choices to survive.” Titsworth attributed the Center’s continuing financial issues to choices made by previous board members whose decisions contributed to the organization’s debt and a loss of home rule which
I don’t think anyone on this board wants The Center to go away.” Marvin Grossman Commissioner encouraged the Island’s short term rental business to grow. “I hope they can pull it together,” she said, suggesting the Center might need to become privatized. “I don’t think anyone on this board wants The Center to go away,” Commissioner Marvin Grossman said. He equated the nonprofit’s consistent loss of funds over the past few years to an addiction, saying that continuing to donate funds to the struggling organization is similar to enabling an addict. “The current financial plan doesn’t make sense,” he said, adding that in order to recover financially, The Center’s spending needs to align with its revenue stream.
“None of our residents are willing to cough up $200,000 to make up the deficit,” Grossman said. Mayor Bob Johnson addressed commission concerns about a potential mediation session between Center leadership, city of Anna Maria leadership and a third party to determine what of the nonprofit’s records are considered public under the Sunshine Law. He assured commissioners that if The Center agrees to the arbitration meeting, Holmes Beach leadership also will “have a seat at the table.” Center board Chair David Zaccagnino said he’s asked for a two week continuance to allow him time to discuss the matter of arbitration with the entirety of the nonprofit’s board before either agreeing to or denying the request. In the meantime, he said he’s working with Center Executive Director Kristen Lessig to make sure the organization is being as transparent as possible with its records. The Center was awarded Gold status for profile transparency June 5 with GuideStar, a nonprofit search engine that monitors organizations for information sharing. “We’ll see what happens and then we can discuss it in the future,” Johnson said.
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OPINIOn
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EDITORIAL Enjoy the birthday
T
he Fourth of July is one of the best holidays to celebrate on Anna Maria Island. Yes, it will be crowded. The traffic will be snarled all the way back into town. Our narrow, twolane roads will look more like parking lots than passageways. Thousands of people will cram onto Island beaches to watch the fireworks at the Sandbar. Many will bring their own pyrotechnics and set them off on the sand. It will be loud and noisy, and the celebrations likely will go on well into the wee hours. The Privateers parade will snake its way up the Island from Coquina to Bayfront Park and take seemingly forever to get there. The cannon onboard the Skullywag will blast away and be deafening. There will be beads and suffocating heat. Exactly. It's the Fourth of July, and we have our country's birthday to celebrate. And we get to do that here. On this Island. In this great state. In this great nation. There really is no place like home.
Your thoughts? Got an opinion, a complaint or a compliment? Is there something you need to get off your chest? Send us a letter to the editor and have your say. There are several ways to doit. Visit our website at www.amisun.com and click on the “contact us” link at the top of the home page. Or, e-mail The Sun directly at news@amisun.com. You can mail a letter to us at The Anna Maria Island Sun, Island Sun Plaza, P.O. Box 1189, Anna Maria, FL 34216. Letters should be kept to 300 words or less and must contain your name and the city in which you reside. Personal attacks and obscene language will not be printed. Letters also may be edited for length and content.
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Two plus two equals fairness As both full-time residents and vacation property owners in Holmes Beach, we are concerned that our elected officials are not making proper decisions regarding Bert Harris claims against our city. Most of these claims stem from the fact that Holmes Beach Ordinances 15-12 and 16-02 now restrict vacation rental occupancy to two persons per bedroom, directly affecting the income potential of these properties. Sure, there are some abuses out there in vacation-rental land, but we are sure most of the properly licensed vacation rental property owners/managers act in the best interest of their properties and the laws of the city, county and state. Indeed, properly licensed vacation rentals pay not only property tax to the county and city, but also 12 percent of vacation rental receipts is paid to the county and state each month. We support fair home rule, but believe Ordinance 16-02 is too restrictive and short sighted. Does this mean a family renting a home cannot place a crib in the home for their baby? Our own immediate family – two daughters, two husbands and a newborn would be prohibited from renting our own three-bedroom property. Silly and unnecessary. Additionally, what is the purpose of having a vacation rental ordinance if it is not enforced? Many city properties are improperly used as vacation rentals with the owner not obtaining a city business tax receipt (license), no limit on their occupancy, no com-
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pliance with rental duration limits associated with zoning, and probably not paying state sales tax and county tourism tax. As far as we know, no enforcement mechanism is in place to bring these properties in compliance with the law. That leaves us with hundreds of properly licensed and managed rentals complying with the occupancy limit, while unlicensed operations rent without restriction. We believe a fair accommodation to address these occupancy restriction suits is to do what the city of Anna Maria is doing to settle similar claims in their community. Instead of taking a hard line against all vacation rental property owners, their commission is looking at each claim individually, and offering an increase in occupancy where appropriate. This approach, coupled with the fact that their vacation rental occupancy ordinance allows two persons per bedroom plus two additional persons, limits their financial exposure. Bradenton Beach is also debating the two plus two occupancy limit in its vacation rental ordinance. Should Bradenton Beach pass the two plus two occupancy limit, Holmes Beach will be the only Island city with a more restrictive limit. We strongly believe it is time for the commissioners of Holmes Beach to do what is best for our city instead of clinging to a position that has the potential to make our community insolvent. Make a minor change in Ordinance 16-02 to set a new limit of two persons per bedroom plus two additional persons. Surely, a change
such as this will not have a deleterious effect on the neighborhood, but could save the city from insolvency. Seems like good governance. Dan and Rhonda Diggins Holmes Beach
The Nancy I know Nancy Ambrose is a very upbeat, high energy, personable person that radiates her joy and her love of life Her inborn character is one of being a very strong, loving, kind, caring individual that appears to be blessedwith gift of discernment. She easily recognizes the needs of others and hastens to come to their aide, whenever possible. When an emergency arises, be it by day or the middle of the night, Nancy will arrive in record time. I can attest to that. Recently, when an emergency arose in my life, Nancy quickly came through for me. Transporting me to a location where I needed to be. She immediately canceled all of her plans to remain at my side for well over four hours. Offering me needed comfort and companionship, witnessing my loss of a very beloved friend. Nancy is a motivator, encourager, and inspirational individual to all who cross her path in life and have the privilege of knowing her. She is also gifted with outstanding leadership skills. In 2014, recruiter Nancy suggested that with my love of baking, I should consider partaking in her well estabSEE letters, PAGE 7
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the sun survey
on the agenda
PREVIOUS QUESTION: Do you favor a ban on watercraft launching at Bayfront Park in Anna Maria?
Anna Maria
17% No
10005 Gulf Drive.
7/11: Planning and Zoning Board meeting, 4 p.m. 7/13: City Commission special meeting, 6 p.m. 7/27: City Commission meeting, 6 p.m. For information, call 7086130.
The sun survey is not a scientific poll and is used for entertainment purposes only.
THIS WEEK’S SURVEY I would like to see the Manatee County Commission:
• Increase the number of lifeguards and lifeguard stands on Island beaches.
• Intensify beach patrols by boat during busy holidays.
• Increase the Marine Res- • All of the above. cue budget to include pay raises for all lifeguards.
Holmes Beach
7/5: CRA meeting, 9:30 a.m. 7/5: Pier Team meeting, 11 a.m. 7/5: CRA budget workshop, 1 p.m. 7/5: Scenic WAVES meeting, 3 p.m. 7/6: CRA budget workshop, 1 p.m. 7/6: City Commission meeting, 6 p.m. 7/11: City Commission workshop, fiscal year audit and surplus concession funds, 1 p.m. 7/12: Budget workshop, 10 a.m. 7/13: Budget workshop, 10 a.m. 7/13: Department Head meeting, 1 p.m. 7/19: Planning and Zoning Board, 1 p.m.
7/5: Planning Commission meeting, 7 p.m. 7/11: City Commission meeting, 6 p.m. 7/13: City Commission work session, 6 p.m. 7/20: City Clerk community forum, 6 p.m. 7/27: Police Retirement Board meeting, 11:30 a.m. For information, call 7085800.
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LETTERS FROM PAGE 6
lished Coquina Beach Market, marketing my baked goods. Thus my life long passion for an in-home bakery became reality and business is thriving . Her provision, implementing and managing this market is of great service to our community
and shoppers. With growth and development, well over 100 vendors weekly have the opportunity to display and sell their crafts, income producing for the many. In addition, she has devoted much of her life to volunteering for numerous charities, local and nationwide. Her honesty and integrity is admirable.
As I perceive it – everyone would be abundantly blessed to have a Nancy Ambrose as a loyal devoted friend in their lives, as Nancy has been in my life for many, many years. Edna Jane Tiemann Bradenton
5801 Marina Drive.
Island-wide
7/19: Barrier Island Elected Officials meeting, Longboat Key Town Hall, 501 Bay Isles Road, Longboat Key, 2 p.m. 7/20: West Manatee Fire Rescue board, administration building, 6417 Third Ave. W., Bradenton, 6 p.m.
mark your calendar Note: Events are free unless indicated.
Wednesday July 5
To vote, go to www.amisun.com or scan this code to vote by smartphone.
7/20: City Commission meeting, 12 p.m. 7/25: City Commission workshop, 1 p.m. 7/26: City Commission special meeting, budget and millage, 10 a.m. 7/26: CRA special meeting, budget and millage, 11 a.m. For information, call 7781005.
Bradenton Beach 107 Gulf Drive N.
83% Yes
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Roser-Robics chair-based exercise class, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, 9:30 a.m. Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce networking luncheon, The Feast, 5406 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., $15 for members and $25 for prospective members. Blood drive, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, noon to 5 p.m. Our Local Waters: Island Marine Adventures for Kids, The Studio at Gulf and Pine, 10101 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria, 1 to 3 p.m.
Thursday July 6
Boomer Boot Camp, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, 9:30 a.m. One class, $15; five classes, $65; 10 classes, $100. Out of My Hands Juggling, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach,
10 a.m. Mat pilates for seniors, Aging in Paradise Resource Center, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, second floor, 10 to 10:45 a.m., $10 per class. Reserve to maryannbrady@ aginginparadise.org or 941383-6493. Knit and Crochet, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 1 p.m. Jam in the Sand, Anna Maria Island Beach Café, 4000 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, 5 to 8 p.m. Artists’ Reception featuring Linda Heath and Rusty Chinnis, The Studio at Gulf and Pine, 10101 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria, 6 to 8 p.m.
Friday July 7
Bridge refresher session, Aging in Paradise Resource Center, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, 2nd Floor, Longboat Key, 10:30 to 11:30 a.m., $10, includes coffee and cookies. Reserve to maryannbrady@ aginginparadise.org or 941383-6493. SEE CALENDAR, PAGE 8
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mark your calendar From Page 7
Mah jongg, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 1 p.m. Sunset drum circle, Manatee Beach, 4000 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, 5 to 8 p.m.
Saturday July 8
Coastal Clean Up with Tampa Bay Watch Program, Coquina Beach Bayside, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Sign-up online at https://app.etapestry. com/cart/TampaBayWatch/default/item. php?ref=1309.0.528712745 Paddle, Robinson Preserve, 1704 99th Street NW, Bradenton, 9 a.m. Participants must furnish their own equipment and life jackets. Reserve to 941-742-5757, ext. 7. Origami, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m. Advanced Fermentation, The Folk School at Florida Maritime Museum, 4415 119th St., Cortez, 10 a.m. to noon, $35. Reserve to 941708-6120. Family fun: Postage Stamp Art Magnets, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2 p.m.
Sunday July 9
Beach Market, Coquina Beach, Bradenton Beach, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Tuesday July 11
Boomer Boot Camp, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, 9:30 a.m. One class, $15; five classes, $65; 10 classes, $100. Preschool story time, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m. Turtle Talk with Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring, CrossPointe Fellowship Church, 8605 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m. Learn to play mah jongg, Aging in Paradise Resource Center, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, second floor, 12:30 p.m., $10. Reserve to 941-383-6493 or maryannbrady@ aginginparadise.org. Crocheting 201B, The Folk School at Florida Maritime Museum, 4415 119th St., Cortez, 1 to 3 p.m., $80. Reserve to 941-708-6120. Memory and lifestyle screening, Aging in Paradise Resource Center, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, second floor, 2 p.m. Reserve to 941-383-6493 or maryannbrady@ aginginparadise.org. Sunset shutter stroll, Robinson Preserve, 1704 99th Street NW, Bradenton, 7 p.m. Reserve to 941-742-5757, ext. 9.
Wednesday July 12
Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce sunrise breakfast, Gulf Drive Café and Tiki,
JULY 5, 2017
900 Gulf Drive N., Bradenton Beach, 7:45 to 9 a.m., $8 for members and $16 for prospective members. Roser-Robics chair-based exercise class, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, 9:30 a.m. Coloring Club, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, noon. Interactive Lecture Series featuring Ed Chiles and Karen Bell, The Studio at Gulf and Pine, 10101 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria, 1 to 3 p.m. Chess Club, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 4 p.m. Basic Fermentation, The Folk School at Florida Maritime Museum, 4415 119th St., Cortez, 6 to 8 p.m., $20. Reserve to 941-708-6120.
Friday
Thursday
July 15
July 13
Boomer Boot camp, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, 9:30 a.m. One class, $15; five classes, $65; 10 classes, $100. All About Manatees, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m. Culinary Art with Erik Walker, The Studio at Gulf and Pine, 10101 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., $75. Mat pilates for seniors, Aging in Paradise Resource Center, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, second floor, 10 to 10:45 a.m., $10 per class. Reserve to maryannbrady@ aginginparadise.org or 941-383-6493. Jam in the Sand, Anna Maria Island Beach Café, 4000 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, 5 to 8 p.m.
July 14
Bridge refresher session, Aging in Paradise Resource Center, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, 2nd Floor, Longboat Key, 10:30 to 11:30 a.m., $10, includes coffee and cookies. Reserve to maryannbrady@aginginparadise.org or 941383-6493. Mah jongg, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 11 a.m. Alzheimer’s Caregiver Support Group, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2 p.m. Sunset drum circle, Manatee Beach, 4000 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, 5 to 8 p.m.
Saturday Build with homemade tinker toys, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2 p.m. Sun spotting, Valentine House, Robinson Preserve, 1704 99th St. NW, Bradenton, 9 a.m.
Sunday July 16
Beach Market, Coquina Beach, Bradenton Beach, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Monday July 17
Social bridge games, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, noon.
JULY 5, 2017
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New Historical Society brochure The Anna Maria Island Historical Society has published its second historic Island brochure ¬– the Historic Holmes Beach City Tour. The brochure directs visitors on a walking, biking or riding tour of the historic landmarks of the city. The first brochure, created in 2105 by intern, Kathryn Rohlwing, from the University of Florida, featured a walking tour of the historic sites in the city of Anna Maria. This summer, Lauren O’Neill, also an intern from UF, is researching historic sites and events for the third brochure featuring the city of Bradenton Beach The Holmes Beach brochure will be available at the AMI Historical Museum, the AMI Chamber of Commerce and the following Holmes Beach business sponsors, who made the publication of this brochure possible: AMI Beachbuggys, A Paradise Realty, Duffy’s Tavern, Haley’s Motel, Grooms Motors and Automotive, Harrington House, Island Bazaar, Mister Roberts, SteamDesigns, and Waterline Marina Resort and Beach Club.
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Nesting News
Bird tips
Turtle nests laid: 347 False crawls: 347 Nests hatched: 0 Not hatched: 14 Nests remaining: 333 Hatchlings to Gulf: 0 Nest disorientations: 3
During bird nesting season, March through August, please follow these tips: • Never touch a shorebird chick, even if it’s wandering outside a staked nesting area. • Teach kids not to chase birds – bird parents may abandon nests if they’re disturbed. • Don’t feed birds – it encourages them to fly at people aggressively and is not good for their health. • If birds are screeching and flying at you, you’re too close. • Avoid posted bird nesting areas and use designated walkways to the beach. • Keep pets away from bird nesting areas. • Keep the beach clean; food scraps attract predators such as raccoons and crows to the beach, and litter can entangle birds and other wildlife. • If you see people disturbing nesting birds, call the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s Wildlife Alert hotline at 888-404-FWCC (3922).
Source: Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring
Turtle Tips During sea turtle season, May 1 – Oct. 31, please follow these tips: • Turn off lights visible from the beach and close blinds from sundown to sunrise; lights confuse nesting sea turtles and may cause them to go back to sea and drop their eggs in the water, where they won’t hatch. Light can also attract hatchlings away from the water. • Don’t use flashlights, lanterns or camera flashes on the beach at night. • Remove all objects from the sand from sundown to sunrise; they can deter sea turtles from nesting and disorient hatchlings. • Fill in the holes you dig in the sand before leaving the beach; they can trap nesting and hatching sea turtles, which cannot live long out of the water. • Don’t use sky lanterns or fireworks; they litter the beach and Gulf. • Do not trim trees and plants that shield the beach from lights. • Never touch a sea turtle; it’s the law. If you see people disturbing turtles, call the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s Wildlife Alert hotline at 888-404-FWCC (3922).
Flippers and Feathers To protect sea turtles and the Gulf of Mexico from pollution runoff, Manatee County prohibits nitrogen and phosphorus fertilizer use through Sept. 30, including on Anna Maria Island.
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Island Bazaar turns 30 The Island Bazaar in Holmes Beach celebrated its 30th anniversary on June 11. The store at 3304 East Bay Drive in the Anna Maria Island Shops shopping center sells clothing, beach gear, beach wear, tanning supplies, souvenirs, toys, trinkets and much more. “We’re very grateful that we have returning customers, and we get new customers every year that keep shopping here,” owner and founder Debbie Sniadach said last week. Her son, Jake Spooner, owns and operates the Bridge Street Bazaar in Bradenton Beach.
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Distemper in wildlife a threat
State pot law won't affect Holmes Beach ordinance
Residents with pets that go outdoors are urged to get them vaccinated against distemper. BY TOM VAUGHT SUN STAFF WRITER | tvaught@amisun.com
ANNA MARIA ¬– Longtime Island resident Pat Copeland had a scare from a raccoon recently. "I went outside to check my Little Free Library, and when I turned to come back to the house, I saw a raccoon on the front porch,” she said. “It didn’t look healthy and I was concerned about it being sick.” Then it ran to the back yard, and the Copelands found it by the swimming pool trying to drink. Pat Copeland's husband, Anna Maria City Commissioner Doug Copeland, chased it out of the yard, but it returned shortly and they found it lying by the pool panting. Pat Copeland, a former reporter for The Anna Maria Island Sun, was worried that the animal might have rabies. “We called (Manatee County) Animal Services and nobody answered,” she said. “We called the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office and a deputy arrived and told us to call Wildlife Rescue and Rehabilitation.” They talked with Wildlife Rescue co-owner Ed Straight, who said they hadn’t had a rabies report in a while, but he said it might be distemper. He said there have been several raccoons with distemper. Distemper is an airborne pathogen, which means it can be
submitted
Raccoons like this one are common on the Island, and Ed Straight of Wildlife Rescue and Rehabilitation says he's seen raccoons with distemper. As a result, he won't bring sick raccoons to his facility for fear of spreading the disease to the other animals. transmitted through the air, and Straight said he didn't want to endanger the other animals at his Bradenton Beach facility. Connor Bystrom, veterinarian at Island Animal Clinic, said animals with distemper show similar symptoms as ones with rabies. “They might be foaming at the mouth or show no fear,” he said of the normally nocturnal animals. “If you see them out in the daytime, they might be nursing mothers.” An Animal Services employee eventually called back that night, but by that time, the raccoon had left the Copeland's yard and climbed up a neighbor's tree. Copeland got a surprise when she found out the department would not respond unless the animal was caged.
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Straight said the county department is normally busy, and employees don’t want to come out if the animal is not going to be there. He warned about setting traps because one would have to check on them regularly or face trouble with the law if an animal dies inside a trap. Bystrom said dog and cat owners should take steps to protect their pets from rabies or distemper. Make sure you keep their vaccinations up to date,” he said. “Rabies and distemper are part of the basic vaccinations we give animals.” If you spot a sick animal, call Wildlife Rescue and Rehabilitation at 941-778-6324, Manatee County Animal Services at 941-742-5933 or the Sheriff's Office.
Florida Governor Rick Scott signed Amendment 2 into law June 26 but it has no effect on the local Holmes Beach ordinance on medical marijuana. Amendment 2, which passed in November receiving 71 percent of voters’ support, governs medical marijuana, including how municipalities can regulate the use and growth of the drug. It also allows for municipality laws in place by July 3 to remain intact. During a June 27 commission meeting, city attorney Patricia Petruff said the new state regulations have “no effect” on the Holmes Beach ordinance passed in January. “We’re good,” Petruff said. The Holmes Beach ordinance allows for three small plants to be grown for personal use by people who have a valid prescription for medical marijuana. The ordinance bans the growth, cultivation and sale of marijuana commercially.
'Quality of life' on this week’s agenda Bradenton Beach Commissioners will resume their stalled efforts to implement vacation rental regulations and a registration fee schedule when they attempt to revive the dormant quality of life ordinance at the Thursday, July 6, meeting that will begin at 6 p.m. The commission will discuss a resident’s request to install no wake zone signs along the cities northern shoreline; discuss the execution of a contract for an automated parking ticket writing and fine collection service; resume discussion on updating the city’s employee handbook; and the commission will receive on update on a pool permitting and easement dispute that involves the city, the county and a private property owner.
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Historic preservation ordinance reviewed City officials are stressing the need for an ordinance that allows property owners to opt in instead of opting out of a potential historical designation.
and cottages being demolished and replaced with larger, more modern structures. Adopting the amended ordinance and being designated as a Florida Certified Local Government would allow the city to apply for historical grants to assist with the rehabilitation of the Historic Anna Maria City Pier.
BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
ANNA MARIA – The Planning and Zoning Board and City Commission have reviewed the proposed amendments to the city’s historic preservation ordinance, and the commission now wants input from the Anna Maria Island Historical Society. It was suggested the Historical Society representatives provide this input during a City Commission workshop on Thursday, July 13. Ordinance 17-830 looks to better protect and preserve historic structures, architectural styles and artifacts located within the city. Adoption of the amended ordinance would assist the city in becoming a Florida Certified Local Government in terms of its historic preservation policies that would qualify property owners to apply for historic restoration grants.
Opt in, not out
joe hendricks | SUN
This house at the corner of Cypress Avenue and Tuna is one of the only cottage-style home formerly owned and occupied by Major League Baseball players left in the city. The ordinance would create historic preservation board that would assist in designating individual properties as historically significant. A property or structure deemed historic would then require certificates of appropriateness and certificates to excavate before it could be altered, moved or disturbed.
The ordinance states an intent to stabilize and improve property values through the rehabilitation of individual properties and the revitalization of older neighborhoods and commercial areas. It’s the commission’s hope that an amended ordinance would help slow the trend of traditional bungalows
When the planning board reviewed the proposed ordinance on June 13, member Carl Pearman was the first to oppose language that would allow outside parties to initiate the process of applying a historic designation to someone else’s private property. “If the property owner doesn’t want it, that should be the end of it,” Pearman said. Board chair Jonathan Crane and the rest of the board agreed and that stipulation was included in the recommendation of support forwarded to the City Commission. Crane mentioned the beachfront home at the corner of Cypress Avenue see ordinance, page 17
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Stormwater improvements continue The city’s ongoing efforts to address flooding concerns will include the installation of more stormwater infiltration trenches. BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
ANNA MARIA – The City Commission has authorized Mayor Dan Murphy to execute a $249,600 contract with Woodruff and Sons for stormwater and drainage improvements Presented by City Engineer Lynn Burnett at the June 22 commission meeting, the approved expenditure is part of a three-year cooperative funding agreement with the Southwest Florida Water Management District that will result in a combined $936,000 investment in improving drainage throughout the city. The recently approved expenditure is identified as Phase E of a multi-phase project and the $249,600 was budgeted for in the current 2017 fiscal year budget. The ongoing project calls for the installation of additional roadside
City of Anna Maria | Submitted
The darker lines in illustration identify where infiltration trenches and other stormwater improvements will take place as part of a multi-phase project. stormwater infiltration trenches that store and transport rainwater and help reduce the pollutant load discharged into Tampa Bay and other surrounding waters.
Burnett told the commission that some of the Phase E work will help address chronic flooding issues near Cypress and Tuna that have been the source of complaints for many years. A
diagram included in the meeting packet indicates present and future work will occur along portions of North Bay Boulevard, South Bay Boulevard, Alamanda Road, Gladiolus Street, North Shore Road, Jacaranda Road, Willow Avenue, Crescent Drive and Gulf Drive. Burnett said Woodruff is already mobilized and she anticipates the Phase E work to be completed by late July or early August. In response to a question from Commissioner Dale Woodland, Burnett said the rocks and filtration screen material along Spring Avenue has been replaced and all other trenches installed since 2012 are up to date in terms of regular maintenance. Burnett is also recommending the future purchase of 18 additional WaStop check valves that will help ensure that water transported through stormwater pipes flows only in an outward direction, which helps prevent the backflow that produces localized flooding. After a recent heavy rain event, Commissioner Doug Copeland commented on how well the first four WaStop valves installed are working.
More death in the water BY TOM VAUGHT SUN STAFF WRITER | tvaught@amisunl.com
BRADENTON BEACH – ,The Manatee County Medical Examiner is investigating an incident that left a Georgia woman dead Saturday afternoon at the south boat ramp of Coquina Park Bayside. According to a Bradenton Beach
police report, Marsha Mincey, 51, of Lithonia, Ga., attempted to board a personal watercraft from the wood ramp and missed, falling into the water. A witness said she panicked. The witness assisted in trying to pull her out of the water, and it took several tries. Mincey was taken to Blame Medical Center where she was pronounced dead. Bradenton Beach Police Detec-
tive, Sgt. Lenard Diaz, said Monday the coroner was investigating whether she drowned or died from a medical emergency. This is the latest incident that cost a life in the waters around Anna Maria Island. Joe Teston drowned off Anna Maria on June 8 and Michael Angelo Rosario Alverez died when he went swimming off Bradenton Beach.
Manatee County Marine Rescue Chief Joe Westerman said there have been more rip tides this summer and swimmers can be lured into deeper water before they notice there’s something wrong. He recommends swimming near the lifeguards stationed in Coquina and Manatee County beaches.
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Art and business The Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce celebrated its June Business Card Exchange at Painting with a Twist, at 5917 Manatee Ave. W. Members networked and enjoyed appetizers and liquid refreshments. Later, some stayed to do some painting. Pictured: Chamber President Deb Wing looks on as Painting with a Twist owners Hope Kinney and Sheri Penxa speak to the group.
Chamber members network and nosh The Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce July networking luncheon will be held on Wednesday, July 5, from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at The Feast restaurant at 5406 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. The cost to attend is $15 for a member and $25 per prospective member.
The Chamber sunrise breakfast will be held on Wednesday, July 12, from 7:45 to 9 a.m. at Gulf Drive Café & Tiki at 900 Gulf Drive North, Bradenton Beach. The cost to attend is $8 per member and $16 for a prospective member. Call the Chamber at 941-778-1541 to RSVP.
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Citizens’ group forming The new organization hopes to serve as a voice for city residents. BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
BRADENTON BEACH – A new citizen’s group called the Concerned Neighbors of Bradenton Beach (CNoBB) will hold its first public meeting Tuesday, July 11, at 9 a.m., at the Annie Silver Community Center. The community center is located at 103 23rd St. N., and the public is invited to attend and participate in these ongoing meetings. CNoBB is an offshoot of the weekly campaign strategy meetings held by Pines Trailer Park resident Bill Vincent during his quest for the Ward 4 City Commission seat ultimately won by John Chappie. Vincent, now a member of the Planning and Zoning Board, said the casual get-togethers that continued after the November elections produced a sense that some form of citizens’ organization was needed. Vincent said CNoBB hopes to inform residents, from the residents’ perspective, about the events that take place in and around city hall, while also serving as a unified voice for residents during city meetings. These outreach efforts will include a
joe hendricks | SUN
Former City Commission candidate Bill Vincent is expected to have a leadership role in the new citizens’ organization. new website that will soon be made public. Vincent said the group will take positions of support or opposition on city issues, but it will not support or oppose specific city commission candidates. During the July 11 meeting, the organization’s bylaws will be adopted and five to
seven-member board members and organizational officers will be elected. One the board members will serve as the organization’s spokesperson at city meetings. At Tuesday’s meeting, Vincent will propose that full-time residents would qualify to serve as CNoBB board members
in addition to serving as voting members of the larger group itself. He will suggest that seasonal residents and representatives of a club or organization like the Bridge Street Merchants association be given full speaking and voting rights, but do not serve as board members or officers. “We had great conversations about being an inclusive organization, rather than exclusive,” Vincent said, noting that members will likely be required to pay modest annual membership dues. Vincent said the group organizers have already discussed some issues they plan to bring forward for members to vote on. They would like to abolish the existing voting wards that dictate one commissioner must come from each of the four wards – in addition to an at-large mayor. They also want to reduce residency requirements for commission candidates from two years to one year. Vincent said he would also like to see the group discuss a potential switch to a strong mayor form of city government. If supported by CNoBB’s voting majority, these matters would be addressed as potential amendments to the city charter, each of which would require the support of the commission majority in order to be placed see cnbb, page 16
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Commissioners vote to discontinue FDOT traffic light maintenance Holmes Beach commissioners are hopeful Manatee County will takeover maintenance on two traffic signals. BY KRISTIN SWAIN SUN STAFF WRITER | kswain@amisun.com
HOLMES BEACH — Commissioners are hoping to save some taxpayer money by discontinuing a maintenance contract with the Florida Department of Transportation. During a June 27 meeting, commissioners voted unanimously to discontinue a traffic signal maintenance contract with FDOT in the hopes that maintenance will be completed by Manatee County with no cost to the city. The issue was broached by city attorney Patricia Petruff who said the maintenance contract is costing the city money. According to Petruff, the current contract was adopted by the city in 2016 and then changed by the DOT. The changes were never adopted by the city. Because Holmes Beach Public Works employees do not have the equipment to maintain the traffic lights on state roads, the work on the traffic signals has been completed by Manatee County with a bill sent to the city for the work. While the DOT reimburses some of that cost, Petruff said the majority of the $13,000 or more bill is left to the city to pay per the current contract. Recommending canceling the contract, Petruff said if no new maintenance agreement is in place by the end of the two year cancelation notice period, it falls to the DOT to either find another vendor or pay the full cost of the county maintenance. Another option she said might be available would be for Manatee County to absorb the maintenance costs. Holmes Beach Police Chief Bill Tokajer, who also serves as the city’s traffic engineer, agreed with Petruff. He said canceling the DOT contract would remove the city from responsibility for the traffic signals. “It takes us out of the middle between the county and the DOT,” he said.
‛S YOUR COMFORT ZONE? WHERE
cnbb: Citizen’s group forming FROM PAGE 15
on a future ballot for city voters to accept or reject. In 2015, the volunteer Charter Review Committee rejected the idea of eliminating voting wards and converting to a strong mayor form of government. Vincent also hopes the group will support an effort to rescind a city ordinance adopted by the commission in 2016 that clarifies the weak mayor’s limited authority. CNoBB meetings will be publicly noticed by the city clerk’s office because elected city commissioners and appointed city board members are expected to be among those who attend and/or participate in the meetings. Commissioners and city board members will need to be aware of any Sunshine Law requirements applicable to matters that could potentially come before them for a vote at a future city meeting.
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PRESERVATION: Ordinance reviewed FROM PAGE 12
and Tuna that recognizes former city residents and Major League Baseball stars Eddie Matthews and Warren Spahn as an example of a structure some might want designated as historic. Crane recognizes and appreciates the home’s historic value, but he does not feel that should deprive the property owner of the right to replace it with a larger home if that is ever his/her desire. City Planner Robin Meyer said the state prefers and may even require an ordinance that allows a property owner to opt out, but allows others to initiate the designation process. If that’s the case, Crane asked that the ordinance at least specify that a potentially impacted property owner be notified of any such efforts via certified and return
receipt mail that includes an easy to understand opt out form. City Commissioner Doug Copeland shared the planning board’s concerns about mandatory participation and the rest of the commission supported that position during its June 22 meeting. City resident Jack Brennan has played an active role in amending the historic preservation ordinance. He told the commission his recent conversation with a state official led him to believe it was up to the city to determine its own opt in and opt out policies and procedures and did not think the opt in approach would prevent the city from obtaining its Certified Local Government designation.
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Treehouse still stands, for now The famous Holmes Beach treehouse is still aloft in its beachfront perch while both the city and owners Lynn Tran and Richard Hazen await a court decision. Both parties are awaiting the latest in a long series of appeals to the Manatee County Second District Court of Appeals as Tran and Hazen seek to preserve the two-story treehouse built in an Australian pine on the beachfront of their home at the Angelinos Sea Lodge, 103 29th Street. Tran and Hazen appealed in May to have the treehouse grandfathered under the city’s codes pending a city-wide vote on the matter. City leaders responded with a request to refute the appeal. The treehouse, constructed in 2011, was built without permits and too close to the erosion control line, within 50-feet of the line. The city refused to issue after the fact permits and required the structure be either demolished or brought into compliance with city building codes. Fines of $50 per day have been amassing since July 22, 2015, along with a fixed cost fine of $4,271. Attorney Jim Dye, representing the city in the matter, said the pending fines are expected to reach approximately $40,771 around July 22 if no resolution is reached.
FILE PHOTO
Tran said she and Hazen are anxiously awaiting the court decision and intend to continue the fight for their treehouse. “If we have to do something, we’ll do something,” she said, regarding demolition of the treehouse, “but for now, we’ll just wait.”
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Causeway shoreline restorations completed Keep Manatee Beautiful is helping to keep the Palma Sola Scenic Highway, more well-known as Manatee Avenue, beautiful just in time to receive revelers for the July 4 holiday. The organization, headed by Executive Director Ingrid McClellan, launched a project to restore four areas along the scenic highway degraded by vehicular traffic, two on the east end of the Perico Island Bridge and two on the east side of
the Anna Maria Island Bridge. The project was more than a year in the making with the removal of 60 tons of invasive plants beginning in March 2016. Sweetbay Nursery donated native plants for installation in April 2017, which are protected by bollards and rope installed by Woodruff and Sons, Inc. Nearly 400 tons of bank-run shell was donated by SMR Aggregates to fill areas after grading was completed by work-
ers from Woodruff and Sons who also replaced missing bollards and rope along the corridor. The project was funded by a $3,000 Sarasota Bay Estuary Program grant and donations from Woodruff and Sons, SMR Aggregates, Florida Native Plant Society, Keep Manatee Beautiful, City of Bradenton, Manatee County Government and the Florida Department of Transportation.
JOE HENDRICKSW | SUN
Ferry permitting continues Sherman Baldwin has cleared another permitting hurdle in his efforts to launch daily ferry service between the Historic Bridge Street Pier in Bradenton Beach and the 10th Street Boat Basin in Sarasota. On June 19, the Sarasota City Commission adopted an amended city resolution that provides Baldwin and his partners the ability to lease a portion of the city-owned seawall (shown here) west of the Coast Guard Auxiliary building for use as the Sarasota point of arrival and departure. Sherman now anticipates service starting in November, with one high speed ferry nearly built and a second to be started in August. Baldwin has also engaged in preliminary discussions with county officials about potentially providing a tax exemption to help lure a boat manufacturer capable of building additional ferry boats to Manatee County.
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BY TOM VAUGHT SUN STAFF WRITER | tvaught@amisun.com
ANNA MARIA – With the increase in value of real estate on and near Anna Maria Island, it is hard to imagine there are people going hungry, but there are, and a group of volunteers from the Island’s churches is doing something about it. Roser Church Facilities Administrator Charles Wade spoke at a JOY (Just Older Youth) brown bag luncheon at Roser last week about the Island Food Pantry, which he operates for the church. “The pantry started Sept. 1, 2002 where the church stored food for people who needed it,” he said. “Doing the food pantry is a joy for me because I have given my heart to Christ.” He spoke abut a man who had lost his job and family after an oil spill in the Gulf. He said he met the man inside the chapel, and he was crying. “I don’t know how to pray,” the man told Wade who said he took the man’s hand and prayed for him. The man finally started praying with Charles. They set him up with some help, and he went his way. Months later, he returned and dropped off a check. He had gotten back on his feet, Wade said. “God has plans for us,” he added. Wade took the group on a tour of the facility located on the church grounds. The pantry is larger after remodeling, and there is a freezer and refrigerator now. The shelves were well
TOM VAUGHT | SUN
Top, the shelves at the pantry show a wide variety of food. MIddle, Charles Wade with the new refrigerator. At left, John Van Zandt, from Island Real Estate, unloads unopened food left in rental units. Island Real Estate informs renters if they don't use food and leave it in their unit as they leave, it will be taken to the pantry.
stocked. He said the staff used to pack the bags of food to give out to the people, but now they get to choose what goes into the bags. “It gives them more of a say, and they like that,” Wade said. While touring the pantry, John Van Zandt, from Island Real Estate, came in with more food. He explained Island Real Estate leaves a note for vacation renters telling them if they
have unopened non-perishable food left over, they can leave it in their units and the rental agency will deliver it to the pantry. So far, supply has kept up with demand at the Island Food Pantry at Roser Church, thanks to the generosity of donors, including vacationers.
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Florida’s finest fishing
he waters that surround Pine Island and Matlacha have always been a favorite haunt. This past week I had the pleasure of fishing there with two good friends, Captain Rick Grassett and Captain Joe Harley. Grassett and I had been invited to Matlacha by Harley to fish for tarpon. The ambiance and the diverse fishing opportunities there are superb, but the last four trips we had planned had been rained out. As it turned out, this time would be charmed. The Pine Island Sound and Matlacha Aquatic Preserves are a fertile habitat for every species that swim local waters, but the fishing for tarpon, babies and adults, is unrivaled. Harley has been fishing these waters for nearly four decades and has plumbed the resource, gaining a comprehensive understanding of the tarpon’s behaviors. We arrived at Harley’s home/lodge just before 7 a.m. on what was shaping up to be perfect conditions. There was no rain in the forecast and the winds were light. We quickly decided to fish the inshore waters where Harley had been targeting both adult
Reel Time RUSTY CHINNIS and baby tarpon. Harley’s boat is moored right behind his house, and we were in Matlacha Pass heading towards Saint James City in minutes. Our first stop was on what appeared to be a non-descript flat just 10 minutes from Harley’s home. With the light winds we were able to spot some 100-pound plus tarpon rolling in less than 3 feet of water. Harley pointed out that the water was so shallow the tarpon were only able to do a slow lazy roll. Unfortunately, before we were able to get in casting range, the wind picked up, and the tarpon stopped showing. It wasn’t more than a 10 mile per hour breeze, but rUSTY CHINNIS | sun
see REEL TIME, page 23
Captain Rick Grassett enjoys the aerial antics of an aerobatic baby tarpon.
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Fishing is fired up Captain Dave White
It's been an exciting week for us here at Anna Maria Charters. I've been covering a lot of ground and doing all types of trips this week. From fly fishing large Jack crevalle and Spanish mackerel, to enormous red grouper offshore. It's been a gorgeous week, with a bit of
rain here and there to maintain our annual summer trend. We're still getting tarpon on threadfin and pass crabs. Although the numbers of fish aren't in the full force they were, we're still having multiple hookups on most trips. Offshore, I'm focused on springs to get the limit on African pom-
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Chris Cassidy of Bradenton, shows off a fire truck of a red grouper caught with Captain David White of Anna Maria Charters.
pano. Then working my way back in, hitting hard bottom areas and ledges for red grouper, American red snapper and other snapper species. It appears the weather patterns will remain the same throughout the next week, I anticipate things to stay fired up.
captain DAVE WHITE SUbmitted
reel time: Florida's finest fishing FROM PAGE 22
it was enough to put the fish down. Rather than waiting for conditions or the tarpon’s mood to change, we decided to head further south to a lake buried deep in the mangroves. This was a spot that Harley had found one day when he and a friend were trying to get out of the wind. Leaving the pass ,we wound deep into a maze of mangroves before finally rounding a corner into the secluded lake. Hopping on the platform, Harley poled us into the three-acre body of water, and moments later we started seeing tarpon smashing bait on the mangrove shoreline. It was my turn on the bow, and I wasted no time
stripping line from my eight-weight fly rod and preparing to launch a bright chartreuse and yellow streamer towards the action. On my third cast a 20-pound tarpon smashed my fly in a shower of spray and immediately began the aerial display that makes these fish the darling of fly fishermen. I got six jumps and three runs before the hook pulled right at the boat. Four more casts yielded three strikes, but I only got a few jumps before the tarpon spit the fly. I relinquished the bow to Grassett, whose fly was attacked on the very first cast by a belligerent baby. The tarpon missed the fly on the first strike, but engulfed it moments later as Grassett stripped the fly towards the boat. The 15-pound fish put up a spirited fight, as much out of the water as in it, before coming unpinned when Harley leadered it at the boat. He had several more strikes and several jumps from tarpon that spit the hook on scale rattling jumps. We let Harley take a turn on the bow next, but even though he made several pinpoint casts under the mangroves, the tarpon had suddenly stopped feeding. Leaving the seclusion of the mangroves, we headed back to Matlacha Pass and north through secluded bays towards Bokeelia near the northern tip of Pine Island. Entering Jug Creek, we threaded our way north then west before entering Pine Island Sound. We explored several more flats in the sound, and although we found roiling fish at every stop we weren’t able to connect with them. As we headed back towards Matlacha, a looming storm cloud convinced us to call it a day. We had both gotten multiple hookups from tarpon that day and were satisfied with the action. Even if we hadn’t found any willing fish, we would have enjoyed our trip through the amazing back country of the area. You really have to go there to appreciate the beauty and fertile fishing in Matlacha Pass and Pine Island Sound. Besides tarpon, which can be found year-round, the fishing for snook, trout, tailing redfish and a host of other species is unrivaled anywhere in Florida in my opinion. To connect with Harley call him at 239-443-7412 or visit his website at www. snooktown.com. One trip with Harley and the fish won’t be the only one hooked.
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Happy birthday, America BY SEAN MURPHY SPECIAL TO THE SUN
T
he greatest country on earth is celebrating its independence from tyranny today. It is ironic that our democracy is again under attack from an ancient autocratic regime. King George has been replaced by Putin. Ivan the Terrible has evolved into Putin the Pathetic. We will be equal to the task of preserving our strength and independence now, just as we were equal to the task of earning it. I believe I love this country more than most. I was not born here. I had to earn my citizenship. I snuck in from Canada. We called ourselves Frostbacks. I had earned a law degree from a prominent Canadian law school, but I chose to wait tables in New Orleans because I loved living in America. Six years of university and I was waiting tables. It drove my old
man nuts. We moved to Anna Maria and realized it was probably the best place on earth to live and raise children. The politics of the Island was perfect then. The mayor of Anna Maria owned the IGA and helped with your groceries. The mayor of Holmes Beach poured your beer at Duffy’s. The mayor of Bradenton Beach could fix your TV. Our governor, the old “he-coon,” would drop by for lunch. Our political leaders were right there for us. They listened to everybody. We opened the Beach Bistro and eventually earned green cards when a Republican president, Ronald Reagan, granted us amnesty. We went through years of extensive interviews and tests and background and police checks here and in Canada. There were miles of waiting lines. We were finally sworn in as citizens at a celebratory ceremony in Tampa. There were 1,500 new citizens that day representing 81 countries. We each waved little American flags. It was one of the greatest days of my life. As we left the ceremony, most of us went to voter registration booths to register to vote. I registered as a Republican because my
Republican friends were running for county and state offices in the primaries. Those Republican friends jokingly referred to me as a Yellow Dog Democrat, because in federal elections I would vote for a dam yellow dog if it was a Democrat. Our politics has changed. Money has changed it. Corporate funds and corporate marketing manipulate false symbols and create false histories to fool people into voting against their own best interests. Coal miners in Kentucky voted for men who will take away their families’ health care. Our citizens have banded into narrowminded tribes that hurl insults at each other. Our political discourse has devolved into meaningless broadsides of unbelievable lies. Our leaders stoke the fires of our hatred and benefit from our division. The Declaration of Independence was signed by courageous men who agreed to overcome their differences to pursue magnificent ideals. America was birthed in debate and compromise. The debate has been debased and compromise is now counted as weakness.
If I had a birthday wish for our country it would be that we set the lies and false prophets aside and begin to talk again as neighbors. Let us find something to agree on – anything to agree on – and begin the discourse again. Tonight, while we are celebrating the birth of the greatest nation on earth, while we are filling the skies with “the rockets’ red glare,” pause for a bit and take a look around. Find a redneck and a Yankee and a Republican and ,yes, even a Yellow Dog Democrat, and share a beer with them. I love being an American on the Fourth of July. Robin Williams used to say that it was tough being a Canadian. That it was like having an apartment with a balcony overlooking a really great party and you were never invited. That is also what Putin feels like today. Sean Murphy is the head coach of the incredibly talented team that runs the Beach Bistro; its little sister, Eat Here; and its new craft cocktail bar, The Doctors Office. Some of his articles can be found on the Bistro’s web-site, www. beachbistro.com
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review: Planning board review questioned FROM PAGE 1
the 120 seats now in use. She reminded board members that the seating being discussed was already in use and approval of Bartizal’s requests would not further increase seating in the Dockside Bar that sits across the street from the primary restaurant and bar structure. Attorney Sacha Ross and members of the Bridge Tender Inn also attended the meeting that saw board members express a wide variety of concerns pertaining to occupancy, capacity, portability, parking, public safety and more. Member John Metz cited concerns about employees and patrons crossing Bay Drive South without the aid of a designated crosswalk, and he suggested the Dockside Bar be moved across the street to an area currently used for parking. Later that afternoon, Metz played team trivia at the Dockside Bar he suggested be moved. Member Reed Mapes suggested the bathrooms in the main structure be upgraded and parking and pedestrian safety concerns be addressed. He suggested there should be some give and take and the city should expect something in return for the permitting approvals. “Issues that have arisen by the applicant’s planning team were ex parte communications, discussions outside
the parameters of the Land Development Code (LDC), consideration and questions raised about property not subject to review, issues that are considered and/or regulated by other agencies and demands for extractions in order to be granted approval. These actions, if challenged, could render the entire process void and open the city up to legal actions,” Perry’s memo said. “Procedural due process is intended to ensure that government acts in a fundamentally fair and reasonable manner when making decisions that affect private individuals. The LDC was adopted with procedures and criteria, which are meant to provide clear rules for everyone, which helps keep the hearings more manageable and more importantly, defensible. If anyone starts to go too far afield in their comments during a proceeding, they can easily be brought back on track by limiting the discussion to the standards. Likewise, making sure that one approaches a hearing with an unbiased opinion is critical to a fair hearing,” Perry’s memo said. The June 21 meeting ended
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These questions revealed that those who were making land use decisions need to be fully educated and informed on land use procedures and the rules of fair play,” Ricinda Perry, City Attorney with the board requesting additional information and the hearing being continued to August 16.
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pier: Design firm dismissed FROM PAGE !
inary discussions without advancing into formal contract negotiations. In May, the commission unanimously supported Murphy’s request to terminate discussions with the West Palm Beach based WGI engineering firm that was ranked highest of the three firms that submitted proposals in February. The decision to jettison WGI was based on Murphy and Meyer’s shared belief that the firm failed to provide the requested project timelines and other deliverables in a timely manner, and the estimated cost climbed from the low to mid-$200,000’s to more than $310,000.
What next?
Monday’s decision means Murphy will now engage in preliminary discussions with the third-ranked firm, the New York based McLaren Engineering Group. When WGI was dismissed in May, Commission chair Doug Copeland asked if the city would have to negotiate with McLaren if Taylor Engineering didn’t work out. City Attorney Becky Vose said the city would, but
mike field | SUN
If city officials decide that the third-ranked firm to design and permit the rehabilitation of the city pier is not a good fit, they have three options to pursue. those negotiations could be short if not initially satisfactory. “The third vendor was pretty much unacceptable to the city planner and myself. They really didn’t have experience in this area,” Murphy told the commission at that May meeting. If the mayor and commission decide McLaren isn’t a good fit, the city has at least three options to pursue: • Issue a new, but similar, request for proposals (RFP) in hopes of attracting additional bidders for the design and permitting processes only:
• Issue a new RFP that requests design/build proposals, which would likely generate more interest from large construction firms that use inhouse or outsourced design partners; • The city could refurbish the pier itself, serving as the lead entity and outsourcing the needed design, permitting and construction services. The pier rehabilitation is expected to cost approximately $2 million and county officials have tentatively pledged $1 million in matching funds.
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REAL ESTATE
JULY 5, 2017
Owning a beach house W
hat’s your dream? Mine has always been to own a beach house where I can walk out on to the beautiful sand of Anna Maria Island and watch the sunset over the gleaming Gulf water. But on Anna Maria there are beach houses and there are beach houses, and not all of them are on the beach, and many of them are investment properties. Owning a beach house for your personal use and to generate income is a popular dream that can work, but like most dreams, when you wake up there’s always reality. The pros, well just look around, the beach, the glorious water, sound of the surf and views. There is nothing like a beach house providing a laid-back atmosphere as a refuge from your other life. You can also take advantage of some hefty tax benefits when you own a second home. Mortgage interest is deductible on a second home as long as it’s within the government’s guidelines, as is maintenance
Castles in the Sand Louise Bolger costs, taxes and association fees. However, you do have to declare the rent as income, and your personal use must be less than 14 days annually if you’re planning to take advantage of these tax benefits. The cons, again just look around, the things you love about the beach are the same things that visitors love only they come with a different set of priorities. If you own a beach rental get ready for phone calls from either the renter or the rental agent when any number of things go wrong – broken appliances, plumbing issues, air conditioning malfunctions and creepy crawling things in the house, and I don’t
mean our beloved turtles. Another con, is that in order to get the full benefit of rental income, you will have to give up your personal use during peak season. Also, be aware of the rental regulations of the community or condo association you live in. Packing your rental with nice amenities like top of the line appliances, flat screen TV’s as well as beach perks like paddle boards, kayaks and golf carts will put you at the top of a lot of renter’s list. In some of the high-end rentals, owners also will leave a selection of wine and a restaurant gift certificate. If you’re not planning on using a property manager, which I don’t advise unless you live close to your rental, you have several options to explore when looking for a renter. You can design and put up your own website, list the property on Vacation Rental By Owner (VRBO), join Airbnb and Homeaway or simply take out your own person ads in local newspapers or in loca-
tions where renters for your property are likely to come from. And don’t overprice your property – a block from the beach is convenient but it’s not on the beach. Anna Maria has been overwhelmed with vacationers who want to come to one of the country’s premier beach destinations. It has turned our little barrier island on its ear, and local governments are still trying to get a handle on the influx of visitors and rental properties. None of this has stopped investors from scooping up properties and turning them into rentals, many of whom also plan on using the home for their personal use. Will a beach house pay for itself? Maybe. But even if it doesn’t generate quite enough income to cover the expenses, you’re still building equity through property appreciation and buying down your mortgage every month. A beach home can be a wonderful acquisition, but be sure to weigh the advantages and disadvantages carefully, not to mention the sunsets.
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City officials eye beach concession funds The three Island cities envision different uses for the countycontrolled funds. BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
ANNA MARIA ISLAND – Most folks think of the concession stands at the Manatee Public Beach in Holmes Beach and Coquina Beach in Bradenton Beach as convenient places to enjoy a meal, snack, soft drink or an adult beverage, but the Island’s city officials see those entities as potential revenue streams. A portion of the money the county collects on the sales that occur at the spaces leased to beach concessionaires is set aside in the county coffers and often referred as the excess beach concession fund. The current fund balance is approximately $1 million, with approximately $750,000 of that potentially available to
the three Island cities. According to county policy, projects funded by beach concession revenues are supposed to provide an Island-wide benefit; and a joint letter of support must be signed by all three Island mayors when submitting a funding request, even if the project is specific to one city. The first project funded was the Urban Land Institute study conducted in 2015, and the city of Bradenton Beach recently submitted a $15,000 request for the installation of exercise equipment along the recreational trail at Coquina Beach. The mayors and city commissioners in the three Island cities are in various stages of compiling their city-specific wish lists in hopes of getting a share of the concession revenues. The concession fund is controlled by the Manatee County Commission that is not obligated to fund any of the projects proposed, and some
future discussion were $65,000 for landscaping improvements at City Pier Park; $120,000 for landscaping and path improvements at Belle Haven Park, behind the AMI Historical Museum; $50,000 toward the future refurbishment of the Anna Maria City Pier; $70,000 for a water taxi feasibility study; and $40,000 for kayak launches on Lake LaVista.
Holmes Beach
joe hendricks | SUN
Landscaping improvements to City Pier Park remains an unfulfilled priority project for the Anna Maria Commission. city officials are concerned about the anticipated multimillion-dollar funding cuts that will occur at the county level if Florida voters approve increasing the homestead exemption on property taxes to $75,000 in 2018.
Anna Maria
In June, Mayor Dan Murphy and the Anna Maria Commission began narrowing down and prioritizing their wish list. Commissioners were provided a list of seven potential projects and asked by identify their top three choices. The early favorites that emerged and are awaiting
Discussed in April and further discussed since then, the Holmes Beach Commission has identified beach mats that would improve beach access for the handicapped and disabled and skate park improvements as top priorities. The working list also includes bike path improvements; Spring Lake Park improvements; and trolley service improvements, including a cell phone application that shows the real-time see funds, page 33
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CONNOR FIELD | SUN
An evening on the beach Crowds line the beach at sunset on Anna Maria Island.
A gift from the Players Lisa Coba, from The Center, holds a check for $2,000 from the Island Players, presented by Players Vice President Bobbie Berger, to her left, after the performance of “Character Matters� Friday, by the Drama Camp students at The Center. Director Pamela Hopkins praised the kids for memorizing their lines so quickly. Hopkins also made all of the costumes. TOM VAUGHT | SUN
TOM VAUGHT | SUN
Rumpelstiltskin Puppeteer Jerry Bickel provided the visual and audial presentation of an old Grimm Brothers tale at the Island Branch Library last Thursday. He worked behind the scenes using marionettes and different voices to provide an entertaining program. He sent the kids home with cutout characters and instructions on how to make their own puppets.
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Feeding Manatee and other good deeds ANNA MARIA ISLAND WOMEN'S GIVING CIRCLE SPECIAL TO THE SUN
ANNA MARIA – The Anna Maria Island Women’s Giving Circle recently provided a $5,000 grant to the Food Bank of Manatee for the purchase of shelf-stable food. It’s estimated the $5,000 enabled the Food Bank to purchase 5,000 pounds of nutritional food for distribution to the various agencies that feed the hungry in Manatee County. Food Bank CEO Maribeth Phillips says
summer is a critical time for the Food Bank. Food donations typically decrease during the summer months, at a time when demand remains high because kids are out of school and not receiving the free and reduced cost lunches served at Manatee County schools. “We are able to purchase exactly the foods needed and at bulk rates,” Phillips said of the impact cash donations make. Anna Maria resident Carol Carter and some of her friends founding the Giving Circle in 2013. Since then, the Giving Circle
Left to right, AMI Women's Giving Circle’s Carol Carter; Diana Dill, from the Food Bank of Manatee County; member Connie Kihm; Food Bank CEO Maribeth Phillips and Manager Cindy Sloan are fighting hunger in Manatee County. Submitted
has donated $11,250 to the Food Bank. Additional donations totaling more than $6,500 have been given to the Roser Food Pantry, Stillpoint House of Prayer and Our Daily Bread. Carter said she was recently astounded when the Manatee Community Foundation provided a total of the group’s donations since 2013. “My friends and I knew we were having an impact, given the letters of appreciation we were receiving from the Food Bank and other organizations – like PACE Center for Girls, the Women’s Resource Center, Visible Men Academy, HOPE Family Services and We Care Manatee – but when we realized we had given almost $100,000, we were all stunned,” Carter said.
The Giving Circle is a donor-advised fund of the Manatee Community Foundation, In the last four years, the Giving Circle has donated nearly $90,000 to support the health and education of women and children in Manatee County, with donations made to more than 15 different non-profit organizations, many of which have generated matching funds from the recipients or from other organizations. Taking matching funds into account, Suzi Atherton, director of Charitable Legacy Planning and Development for the Manatee Community Foundation, suggests the Giving Circle has made a $150,000 difference in Manatee County.
LO C A L LY K N OW N . G LO B A L LY CO N N E C T E D.
ANNA MARIA ISLAND 306 Gulf Boulevard Laurie M Mock 941-232-3665 A4177531 $2,950,000
ANNA MARIA ISLAND 110 7th Street S Deborah Nelson 941-266-5900 A4185869 $2,000,000
ANNA MARIA ISLAND 524 Villa Rosa Way Kelly Baldwin 941-404-9396 A4173954 $1,395,000
ANNA MARIA ISLAND 318 Bay Drive S 7 Ralph & Megg Faillace 713-9142 or 713-9144 A4178742 $1,195,000
B R A D E N TO N 10804 Riverbank Terrace Jody Shinn 941-705-5704 A4169182 $999,999
B R A D E N TO N 8224 8th Terrace NW Deborah Capobianco 941-704-2394 A4183622 $529,000
ANNA MARIA 211 Elm Avenue B George Myers 941-224-6021 A4182863 $479,000
B R A D E N TO N 532 Hillcrest Drive Toni Lyon 941-928-8735 A4170841 $460,000
ANNA MARIA ISLAND 532 70th Street George Myers 941-224-6021 A4184561 $1,790,000
ANNA MARIA ISLAND 200 S Harbor Drive 1 Ken Kavanaugh & Margo Love Story 941-799-1943 A4184153 $1,495,000
ANNA MARIA ISLAND 615 N Point Drive Kathy Valente 941-685-6767 A4173388 $1,050,000
ANNA MARIA ISLAND 2313 Avenue B George Myers 941-224-6021 A4177927 $850,000
NEW CONSTRUCTION
MSC MORTGAGE | MSC TITLE | MS&C COMMERCIAL NEW HOMES & CONDOMINIUMS | RENTAL
ANNA MARIA ISLAND 1801 Gulf Drive N 208 Deborah Capobianco 941-704-2394 A4184401 $289,999
8 8 8 . 552 . 52 2 8
B R A D E N TO N 7740 34th Ave W 103 Barb Eberhart 941-761-7349 A4168002 $365,000
RENTAL ANNA MARIA ISLAND 1003 Gulf Drive S 4 2 Bed 1 Bath 667 SqFt $1,000
michaelsaunders.com L I C E N S E D R E A L E S TAT E B R O K E R
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TOWN CRIER Give the gift of life Summertime is when the local blood supply gets low due to a lack of seasonal donors and local residents vacation to other climes. The Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive in Holmes Beach, holds a blood drive on Wednesday, July 5, from noon to 5 p.m. Donors will receive a free OneBlood Tervis® tumbler and a wellness checkup that includes blood pressure, temperature, iron count, pulse and cholesterol. To make an appointment, log onto www. oneblooddonor.org and use sponsor codeE23293.
Keep on stitching The Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, hosts its Knit and Crochet clubs on Thursday, July 6, at 1 p.m. Enjoy a quiet afternoon working on a project in air-conditioned comfort. For more information, call the library at 941-778-6341.
Seniors watch a local movie Senior Adventures meets at 10 a.m. on Friday, July 7, at the Annie Silver Community Center, 103 23rd St. N. in Bradenton Beach, to watch the movie “Out of Time,” shot partly in Cortez and starring Denzel Washington. For more information, call Kay Bell at 941538-0945 or Peg Miller at 942-778-3106.
It’s up in the air
It’s game time
The Friends of the Island Library present “Out of My Hands Juggling and Illusion Show” on Thursday, July 6, at 10 a.m. at the library, 5701 Marina Drive in Holmes Beach. This familyfriendly program is made for kids on summer vacation and their parents. The show is free, but these programs have been filling the library meeting room, so get there on time. For more information, call 941-778-6341.
The Island Branch Library is hosting mah jongg on Friday, July 7, and every Friday at 1 p.m. This Chinese board game has been gaining a lot of fans. For more information, call the library at 941-778-6341.
Clean up the shorelines Tampa Bay Watch is asking for volunteers to join the Coastal Cleanup at
Leffis Key and Coquina Beach from 9 a.m. to noon on Saturday, July 8, Bring a hat gloves and sunscreen, and Manatee County will provide trash bags and grabbers to help Mother Nature look her best. It’s a great way for teenagers to earn volunteer hours. To sign up, log onto https://app.etapestry.com/ cart/TampaBayWatch/default/item. php?ref=1309.0.528713745
Folding fun at library Judy Pruitt presents her origami class at the Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, on Saturday, July 8, from 10 a.m. to noon. Learn this ancient Japanese art of paper folding. The class is free. For more information, call the library at 941-778-6341.
Explore Robinson from the water Canoers and kayakers are invited to gather at Robinson Preserve, at 1704 99th St. N.W., in Bradenton to join a group paddle through the backwaters with a nature guide from WayneAdventures on Saturday, July 8, from 9 a.m. to noon. This is an easy paddle for all ages who can meet the minimum requirements as listed at www.mymnatee.org/ in the education section.
JULY 5, 2017
Participants must have their own canoe or kayak and safety gear. All participants must wear a life jacket. Reservations are required. Call 941742-5757, ext. 7.
Fermenting food class The Folk School at the Florida Maritime Museum, 4415 119th St. W. in Cortez, is offering an advanced fermenting class for food, not alcohol, on Saturday, July 8, from 10 a.m. to noon. This class will deal with sauerkraut and an assortment of fermented vegetables and when the class is over, students will be able to take home what they made. The fee is $35 per student and participants should bring a kitchen knife for chopping. For more information, call the Folk School at 941-708-6120 or log onto https://floridafolkschool.org/.
Make an attractive gift Make a postage stamp art magnet at the Super Saturday event at the Island Branch Library, 5703 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach on July 8 starting at 2 p.m. It’s an opportunity to put together some artwork for the refrigerator. For more information, call the library at 942-778-6341.
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funds: Officials eye concession funds FROM PAGE 29
locations of the trolleys.
Bradenton Beach
The Bradenton Beach Commission is bringing up the rear in the chase for beach concession funds and has yet to engage in formative discussion on a wish list. In his preliminary discussions with
the other two mayors, Mayor Bill Shearon expressed initial interest in multi-use trail improvements and improvements to the anchorage near the Historic Bridge Street Pier, but the commission has not yet expressed its support for those items. Commissioner Ralph Cole recently sug-
gested trolley pullover lanes as a viable use of beach concession funds, and due to the ongoing procedural delays, Vice Mayor John Chappie has offered to take the lead in scheduling a commission workshop to further discuss the creation of a wish list.
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SPORTS
JULY 5, 2017
Team Moss Builders seeks championship: The field of eight is down to two after a week of playoffs
BY MONICA SIMPSON SPECIAL TO THE SUN
After finishing the regular season in seventh place, Team Moss Builders took on the sixth-seed Team Mulock Flynn Law Thursday night. With the solid pick-up of Diego Felipe to replace the injured David Greene, Moss Builders found a strong leader and rhythm at the end of the season, leading them to the championship game on July 6. The game looked to be a close one until the last minutes of the game. Mulock Flynn Law struggled all season to have a full roster at a game. Thursday night’s game was no different. Missing Tony Shard, playing with only seven players in the heat of the evening, Sean Flynn’s team gassed out but fought to the end. Felipe started the scoring in the game after six minutes of play with the first goal in the quarterfinal game. Rapid fire shooting by Lexi Sato and Rico Beissert hit both the left and right posts with no goal. Team Moss Builders continued to show its offensive strength, but the shooting was just slightly off target. In the 16th minute of play, team play with a perfect throw in by Jacob Talucci to Felipe, who headed to ball to Sato, resulted in a shot attempted that ricocheted off the crossbar. After an offensive push by Mulock Flynn Law, Jessica Williams shot a hard one off of goalie Shawn McCarthy, tying the game 1-1. Keeping her team well in the game, Williams played a solid game both on offense and defense. With three minutes left in the game, big man Matt Kretzmann hit a quick goal, putting Moss Builders back into the lead by one going into the second half of play. Team Mulock Flynn Law dangerously left Sato alone on offense while trying to tie the score. Team Moss Builders took advantage by sending the ball to Sato all by herself past mid-field. Running full speed, Ryan Moss, playing for Team Mulock Flynn, and Williams chased after Sato trying to cut off the angle and prevent the shot, to no avail. Sato’s shot put her team up by two just minutes into
monica simpson | SUN
Above, Matt Kretzmann and Danny Anderson prepare to “win” the ball Thursday night for Team Moss Builders and Team Mulock Flynn Law. Right, Mulock Flynn Law’s Cortni Wash controls the soccer ball with the heat of Rico Beissert and Jacob Talucci for Moss Builders. the second half of the game. In the second half of play, the speed of Moss Builders’ Jesse Brisson and tenacity of Mike Brusso made it difficult for Mulock Flynn to score. Lethal weapon Danny Anderson scored Mulock Flynn’s second goal three minutes into the half. Team Mulock Flynn dominated the ball on the Moss Builders’ side of the field for a significant amount of time, but could not hit the net. After a nice pass to Felipe, the smart soccer gentleman passed the soccer ball to Kretzmann, who quickly scored his second goal of the game. The two-point lead for Moss Builders would not last long with the ball on the feet of Mulock Flynn Law’s Omar Polar. Polar took the ball to the goal with a left footed shot, changing the scoreboard to 4-3. Mulock Flynn, with the help of Cortni Wash, worked hard to obtain and retain possession of the ball. Polar was called for two fouls giving Moss Builders field position past mid-field. Felipe shot a rocket past goalie Ivan Gaeta, giving Moss Builders a twopoint lead. A nice shot attempt in
the last seconds of game by Williams floated just over the crossbar. With no time on the scoreboard clock, Moss Builders’ team captain Nate Talucci scored a goal in the playoff game to seal the deal, setting the tone for the season’s final championship game. Team Anna Maria CrossFit, with only seven players in the game, fell to the first place Team Sato Real Estate. Spectators of the July 6 championship game will see if Team Moss Builders’ addition of Felipe and ability to gel as a team at the right time will be enough to defeat the undefeated. With two, arguably three, solid first round level players on the roster, Sato Real Estate on paper is the team to win the wager. When it comes to heart, determination and past history of community center soccer, Moss Builders will capture the Paul “Ace” Hayward Championship Cup.
Sun Scoreboard Tuesday, June 27 Adult Co-Ed Soccer Quarter Final Games
#5 Lancaster Design #4 Anna Maria CrossFit
1 2
#3 Slim’s Place #6 Mulock Flynn Law
2 3
#2 Acqua Aveda #7 Moss Builders
3 4
#1 Sato Real Estate #8 Ross Built Construction
8 2
Thursday, June 29 Adult Co-Ed Soccer Semi-Final Games
#6 Mulock Flynn Law #7 Moss Builders
3 6
#1 Sato Real Estate
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obituaries Keith Isadore Lippman Keith Isadore Lippman was born Jan. 25, 1954, in Beverly Hills to Jeannette Linnick and Burt Bernard Lippman. Surrounded by his daughter, Leona Rath, of Newport News, Va.; brother Keith Lippman ,of Rhode Island; and his loving partner of two years, Libby Combs, San Remo Shores, Bradenton, Keith left for his next great adventure on May 19, 2017 . There was not one missed opportunity in between those two dates. Keith lived life by his own compass. He surfed florescent waves under a full moon in Malibu, practiced the music in his soul, streaked in Brazil, saw the green flash in a sunset off the Gulf coast, ran with wild horses in Hawaii, felt small next to an iceberg in Alaska and sailed back and forth from New England to the Caribbean often. An accredited chef in his own club and abroad yachts, a Merchant Marine Captain and an active Bradenton American Legion motorcyclist, riding his vintage Harley as often as possible, Keith enjoyed his life and taking on the world. Feeding thousands across the county at American Legion events and Thanksgiving dinners for local churches, Keith’s kind heart was always looking to help others in any way possible. Relocating to Bradenton in 2015, Keith started his own company, Captain Keith the Handyman, and was well known for his honesty, professionalism and craftsmanship on Anna Maria Island, as well as in northwest Bradenton. Helping with the distribution of Anna Maria Fun Maps for Libby on the Island, Keith always looked forward to meeting the business owners and their staff. He will be missed. Always smiling. In addition to Leona Rath, his daughter, and Craig Lippman, his brother, mentioned above, Keith is survived by his sister Laurie Crosby, of Laguna Niguel, Calif.; his son Forrest Lippman, of Santa Cruz, Calif.; and his two beloved grandsons, Cantrell and Dylan Rath, of Newport News, Va. He is preceded in death by both of his parents, Burt Lippman and Jeanne (Linnick) Lippman, and his cherished Irish twin, brother Doug Lippman. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in Keith’s memory to the charity/organization of your choice.
Roger Allen Nigg Roger Allen Nigg, 65, of Anna Maria Island, died June 25, 2017. He was born in Plainwell, Mich.,
and moved to Bradenton in 2015 from Baltimore, Md. Roger was a member of St. Bernard Catholic Church and was a member of the Moose Lodge of Anna Maria Island. He is predeceased by his parents, Anthony A. and Esther (Kessler) Nigg. He is survived by his wife of 13 years, Justine Preis, of Anna Maria Island; one son, Charles Allen Nigg, of Florida one daughter, Elizabeth Nigg, of Palmetto; two step daughters, Christina Barnett, of Columbia, Md, and Catherine Field, of Parkville, Md; two sisters; and six grandchildren. There will be no services locally. Brown & Sons Funeral Homes & Crematory 43rd Street Chapel, 604 43rd St. W., Bradenton, FL 34209 was in charge of arrangements. Condolences to: www.brownandsonsfuneral.com
Joseph Stanton 'Joe' Teston Joseph Stanton “Joe” Teston died June 8, 2017, in Anna Maria. The cause of death was accidental drowning in the Gulf, where he loved to swim. Joe was born in Lakeland on May 15, 1992. He attended St. Joseph’s School in Lakeland, where he also was a church member. Joe graduated from Polk Collegiate High School and from the University of South Florida. He was to enter pharmacy school in August. Joe was a kind, gentle, incredibly forgiving person who always looked for the good in everyone he met. He was funny and creative, writing a book series, “The Adventures of Monkey Man,” for his elementary classmates. His artwork and poems brighten his mother’s office at Watson Clinic. Joe recently had taken up drumming and entertained himself, family, friends and even neighbors in his garage studio in Anna Maria. Joe is survived by his parents, Karen and Fred Teston, of Lakeland, and by his maternal grandmother, Darlene Head, with whom he lived in Anna Maria. Other family include aunts and uncles, Susan Jacoby and Mike Jacoby, of Lakeland; Chris (Suzanne) Bird, of Gainesville; Ken (Mary) Teston, of Thomaston, Ga.; Ralph Teston, of Panacea, Fla.; Jenny Lou Bird, of Rayville, La.; and Leroy Griggs, of Lakeland. Joe also had many cousins and friends with whom he spent enjoyable times. He is preceded in death by his grandparents, Dr. James “Jim” Bird, (Bernadette); Stanton Madison “Peck” Teston; Maria Josefina Rodriguez-Teston; aunt Virginia “Ginger” Griggs; and uncle Richard “Ricky” Bird. Joe’s memorial service will be noon Saturday, July 8, at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, 210 W. Lemon St., Lakeland, FL 33815. Brown & Sons Funeral Homes & Crematory 43rd Street Chapel is in charge of arrangements. In lieu of flowers, family ask that those wanting to honor Joe’s memory make donations to any of the following: St.
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Joseph’s Academywww.sjalakeland. org, Lakeland SPCA www.spcaflorida.org or to Dr. Ahmet Hoke, professor, neurology and neuroscience, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, 855 N. Wolfe St., Rangos 248, Baltimore, MD. 21205, Attention: Dr. Hoke’s Research. Condolences may be made to www. brownandsonsfuneral.com.
Sonny J Woods Sr. Sonny J Woods Sr., 71, of Bradenton, Fla., passed away June 15, 2017. Sonny was born in Bedford, Ind., on July 19, 1945, and moved to Bradenton when he was 2 years old. Sonny attended Anna Maria Elementary, Walker Junior High, and graduated from Manatee High School in 1963. While he attended Manatee Junior College he worked at Payne’s Jewelry store in downtown Bradenton with his father, Russell. Sonny sold lumber in Bradenton for more than 45 years. He was a member of the Circle of Excellence for being one of the top 10 salesmen in the company for Leeds Building Products from 2000 to 2007 and was a member of the Trophy Club for Pro Build in 2008. Sonny was a member of the Manasota Elks Lodge and served as Exalted Ruler in 1991-1992. Sonny was also a member of the Hernando Desoto Historical Society from 1966 until 1992
BEACH BEAT Anna Maria
6/14, grand theft, Galati Marine, 900 S. Bay Blvd. The security camera showed three males break into a yacht and search the interior. A fire extinguisher is missing, and officials found a marijuana cigarette butt on the yacht. 6/24, information on a fall, Anna Maria City Pier, 100 S. Bay Blvd. The victim slipped on wet boards near the rear door of the restaurant and fell on her knee. She was taken to Blake Medical Center by ambulance. 6/26, lost property, 209 Elm Ave. The Waste Management trash can was missing.
Bradenton Beach No new reports.
Cortez
6/24, overdose, 10600 Cortez Road W. The complainant found the subject passed out at the wheel of his car. He called 911, and emergency medical personnel had to break out a window to get to him. They used Narcan to revive him.
Holmes Beach
6/23, suspicious circumstance, 600 block of North Point Drive. A tire on the
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and also served on the float crewe. It was during Sonny’s stint on the Crewe, where he was left in the charge of the cannon that was fired during all of the parades, that he inadvertently left the cannon unattended, which resulted in the coveted Crewe artifact becoming the ill-gotten booty of the Anna Maria Island Privateers. Needless to say, Sonny never lived that blunder down and was awarded “The Goat” distinction for his faux pas. Sonny is preceded in death by his father, Russell B. Woods; his mother, Majorie Hatfield Woods; and his younger sister, Mary Ann Woods, who called him her “Sunshine.” Sonny was a loving husband to his wife of 18 years, Vicki Weston Woods. His face would light up whenever she walked in the room. Sonny was and always will be the love of Vicki’s life. He was a devoted father, best friend and mentor to his son, Sonny J Woods Jr. (Bobbie); daughter, Tammy Boggs (Mickey); and two grandchildren, Kelsey and Lindsey. He was also a caring big brother to his two sisters, Chattci Ramey, and Camilla Bolte (Fred); and brother, Robert Woods (Jerrie). Sonny loved his extended family and many great friends. There will not be a service. His family asks that whenever you think of Sonny remember his big smile, hearty laugh and then let your family know you love them.
resident’s car was damaged. She feels she is being targeted over some turmoil about The Center because the victim was appointed to an interim position on the board. 6/23, driving with an expired license, Manatee Public Beach, 4000 Gulf Drive. The officer ran a check on the driver’s license, and it showed the owner’s license had expired. He stopped the driver, who handed the officer his expired license. He said he was getting his immigration and naturalization paperwork taken care of, and it’s taking forever. He was given a summons. 6/24, domestic battery, criminal mischief, 300 block of 63rd Street. The officer was dispatched to the victim’s house by a friend who had texted that her former boyfriend was at her house. When officers arrived, the boyfriend was there, intoxicated. He said the victim invited him there, but he would talk about anything else. The victim said she had been at a bar, and the ex boyfriend was there and they spoke. Later, he knocked on her door, and when she answered, he came in. She asked him to leave, but he refused and became physically aggressive. She locked herself in the bathroom, and he kicked a hole in the door. He got her out of the bathroom and threw her in a closet and tried to strangle her. The officers arrested the suspect.
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FUN IN THE SUN
Across 1 Tostitos dip 6 #, in music 11 Swabbing need 14 Makes furrows in fields 15 Universal donor's group 16 Sports drink suffix 17 Roof overhangs 18 Check the total of 19 Musician's booking 20 Gallic gal pal 21 Paving goo 22 Adorable ones 24 Thor Heyerdahl's raft 26 Lady of Lisbon 27 Beijing skyline haze 28 Home of the Raiders 32 Video game brother 35 High, in the French Alps 37 Swiss painter Paul 38 Green card in the credit world 39 Wild guesses 40 Brainchild 41 Breathe heavily 42 Hair clipper brand 43 Twist into knots 44 More vertical 46 Periodical with a URL 48 Oater actor Jack 49 Chess pieces that move only diagonally 53 Venus, e.g. 56 Dress for success, with "up" 57 Gardner of mystery 58 Old nuclear agcy. 59 Repair, as faulty software 61 Morocco's capital 62 Pixar collectible
63 Loon kin 64 Official command 65 Nonstandard product-tracking no. 66 College paper 67 "Bone" prefix Down 1 Command to Fido 2 "Drive Happy" rental company 3 "Good __": 1966 Young Rascals hit 4 *Round before the Elite Eight 5 Biblical mount 6 *Ball carrier's maneuver depicted by the Heisman Trophy 7 Martha of "Some Came Running" 8 Therapists' org. 9 Revolutionary soldiers 10 Middle-of-nowhere town 11 Star-struck trio? 12 Drooly toon dog 13 Cribbage pieces 21 Bout decision Answers to 06-28-17 Crossword Puzzle.
23 Pundits ... and what the first words in the answers to starred clues literally are 25 Texter's "I think ..." 26 *Two over par 29 "M*A*S*H" star 30 At no time, in poems 31 Negotiation ender 32 Plans (out) 33 Amo, amas, __ 34 Philosopher Descartes 36 Contented sigh 39 Cool weather clothes 43 Fun time 45 Telethon promise 47 Russian fighter 50 Heavenly path 51 "Peyton __" 52 Spat 53 Lobbying orgs. 54 Scallion kin 55 First Amendment defender: Abbr. 56 Oom-pah maker 60 Wanna-__: pretenders 61 Popular Roaring Twenties auto
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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 Lynn at 813758-3234 or lbrennan47@ gmail.com ROSER FOOD BANK needs donations of cash and non-perishable food. Donations boxes are located at the Church, Moose Club, Walgreen's and The Anna Maria Island Sun Newspaper (corner of Gulf and Palm).
AUTO/ BOAT DETAILING PROFESSIONAL PRESSURE WASHING. Residential & Commercial. Window Cleaning, Car & Boat Detailing. Free Estimates. Call or text Adrian's Detailing LLC 941-405-6746
BABY SITTER RED CROSS CERTIFIED baby sitter. Honor student. Call or text Isabel 941-5457995
BOATS: PARTS & SERVICES & SALES Islandboatsales.net 17 years & Hundreds Sold. “Business On A Hand Shake” Not Using Your Boat, Let’s Sell It. Dave/Owner 941-228-3489
CARPET CLEANING QUALITY COUNTS. CARPET cleaning. Upholstery cleaning. Tile & grout cleaning. Island's favorite cleaner. Manatee Chamber Member. Great price/free estimates. Call 941-7561082
CLEANING SERVICE CLEANING: RESIDENTIAL, COMMERCIAL & RENTALS. Professional and Reliable. Call 941756-4570
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Call us today! 941-778-3986
CLEANING: RESIDENTIAL, COMMERCIAL, Construction and Vacation Rentals . Also available Power Washing and Windows. Call 941251-5948 THOMPSON CLEANING SERVICE CommercialResidential-Marine. Island Based Company. Seasonal Deep Cleaning-Weekly-Occasional. Call for Free Estimate. 941-281-4951
COMPUTER SERVICES
MOVING SALE! SATURDAY, July 8th 9am-1pm. 645 Key Royale Dr.
HAULING SITE CLEAN-UP to trash outs we can handle it all. Call us for your dumpsters/ trash needs today 941-7538772
HEALTH & FITNESS NEUROPATHY? CALL FOR 3 Complimentary coaching sessions that may change your life! Total Life Care 303-809-4555
HOME IMPROVEMENTS
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
TILE! TILE! TILE! All variations of tile supplied and installed. Quality workmanship. Prompt, reliable, many Island references. Free estimates. Neil 941-726-3077
EMPLOYMENT
INSURANCE AGENCY: HOLMES BEACH hiring full time. 2-20 or 4-40 licensed insurance customer service representative. Must have at least 3 years experience with a muti-line independent insurance agency. Please inquire for more information to brent. moss@greatflorida.com or 941-567-6266 HOME TRUE VALUE HARDWARE. 5324 Marina Dr. Holmes Beach has an opening for a part time cashier, 2 days a week. email application to hometvhardware@aol.com or leave app with our cashier DRIVERS CDL-A & B: Company & Owner Operators! Local Work ~ Home Daily End Dump, Super Dump, Pneumatic Tanker. Locations in Texas! 844-6481860
FISHING CHARTERS CAPT. MAC GREGORY Fishing Charters. Full Day, Half Day, Night, Inshore & Near Shore. 941-809-5783 U.S.C.G. Certified/Insured
RENOVATION SPECALIST ALL carpentry repairs, Wash Family Construction, locally owned and operated CBC 1258250 Call 941-7250073. KERN CONSTRUCTION NEW Homes & Remodel. Design/Build. Since 1968. License # CRC1327296. Call Jerry Kern 941-7781115 www.kernconstructioninc.com “HONEY DO" HOME Repairs & Handyman Services. 35 yrs experience. Painting, drywall, tile, woodwork. All tasks. Call 941-896-5256 or 941-807-5256 www.honeydohomerepairinc.com WALY PRECISION PAINTING: painting, drywall, stucco, and remodeling, commercial/residential, licensed & insured. Call 941-448-1928 or 941-4656324 www.WalyPrecisionPainting.us BESPOKE SERVICES, MASTER CARPENTER for all home & office repairs. Also painting, decorating, decking & dock repairs,. Large or small works. Reasonable Rates! Island guy for Island work. Call RICHARD 941-448-3571
GARAGE, MOVING, RUMMAGE & YARD SALES ROSER THRIFT SHOP: Open 9:30a.m.-2p.m. Tuesday and Thursday, 10a.m.1p.m. Saturday. Annex open till 12p.m. Donations preferred on Wednesdays 9-11a.m. 511 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. 941-779-2733.
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LANDSCAPING & LAWN CARE R. GAROFALO’S Interlocking brick pavers, driveways, patios, pool decks. Free estimates. Licensed & Insured. Call Rafael 941-778-4823 or Veronik 941-526-7941 SHELL DELIVERED AND spread $55/yd. Hauling all kinds of gravel, mulch, top soil with free estimates. Call Larry at 941-795-7775, "shell phone" 941-720-0770 STRAIGHT SHOT LANDSCAPE. Specializing in Old Florida Seashell driveways and scapes. Also Rock, Mulch, & Soil. Free estimates. Call Shark Mark 941-301-6067
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE NORMS TOWING gives Notice of Foreclosure of Lien and intent to sell these vehicles on 7/5/2017 9:00am at 1855 63rd Ave E Bradenton FL 34203 pursuant to subsection 713.78 of the Florida Statutes. NORMS TOWING reserves the right to accept or reject any and/or all bids.
LOST & FOUND
LOST: LADIES AVIATOR sunglass on Holmes Beach, 65th street. Wed 6/28 Sunset. Reward. 813-546-3982 STOLEN FROM 217 PINE AVE. Art work from front of house. Multi-colored Fish. REWARD! Call 813-2305900 FOUND SMALL FRIENDLY domesticated black & white cat near Bean Point. Needs good home. Call 941-778-1976 LOST KAYAK BIMINI BAY Floated away on Sunday nights storm. Tan Feather Lite. Please call 941-7783057 LOST HEAVY GOLD CHAIN with Blue Stone near 47th Ave in Holmes Beach on December 26. REWARD! Call 908-963-1702 LOST MY GRANDMOTHER'S gold wedding band (initials inside and date) at Coquina Beach area. Reward. Call 407-579-1621
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MOVING & STORAGE
PRINTING
MARTIN’S MOVING YOUR Island movers! Offering dependable, competitive rates. No hidden costs. 941-809-5777.
CUSTOM DIGITAL PRINTING "Your printing dream to reality" Specializing in Dye sublimation Printing. Graphic Design. Performance Active ware. Logo Design. Call Rhonda 330-550-4847
TWO MEN and a TRUCK. Movers who care. Local and Long distance. www. twomen.com Call 941-3591904. We sell boxes!
PAINTING & WALLCOVERING PAINT! PAINT! AND MORE 28 years of experienced interior/exterior custom painting. Pressure cleaning, drywall repairs and texture finishes. Many Island references. Please call Neil for free estimates. 941-812-0507 “WIZARD OF WALLS” Established 1980 Prompt quality service. Paperhanging/removal Faux finishes. Interior painting. Mary Bell 941794-0455 PROFESSIONAL PAINTING SERVICES. Prompt & Reliable. Meticulous, Thorough, Quality Workmanship. Interior/Exterior. Wall paper removal.. Also minor repairs & carpentry. Free written detailed estimates. Bill Witaszek 941-307-9315 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
FROM THE HIGH $200’s Only minutes from the beach, this new active adult community is perfectly located just south of Manatee Ave, off Village Green Pkwy. Perfectly designed, open 2BR or 3BR/2BA plus den & 2CG floor plans. Luxurious amenities, pool, spa, gym, pickle ball and fenced-in dog park. HOA only $190/ month. Models open daily. Contact us 941254-3330 www.MirabellaFlorida.com 113 BEACH AVE 3BR/3BA Pool Home. Great location West of Gulf Drive with Direct beach access! $1,055,000 Call Charles Buky Coldwell Banker 941228-6086 CANAL FRONT HOMES Holmes Bch - Key Royale GULF FRONT CONDOS Gulf Place, La Casa L’Plage, Waters Edge & MORE. Island Real Estate ASK Alan Galletto 941-232-2216 BAY FRONT HOME W. Bradenton Palma Sola 4000 sq.ft. 4 BR/3.5 BA 4 car garage. Stunning Cathedral ceilings. No Island traffic! Island Real Estate ASK Alan Galletto 941-232-2216 FOR SALE: THE PORCH HOUSE. 2BR/2BA, 2 blocks to beach! Boyd Realty. Scott May 941-238-8377 or Brenda Boyd May 941-7308589 11433 PERICO ISLES BRADENTON FL. 3BR/2BA single family home. New Kitchen, vaulted ceilings, water view. $425,000. Sharon Hightower RE/MAX Alliance Group sharonsellsbeaches@yahoo.com 941-330-5054
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REAL ESTATE HOMES & CONDOS FOR SALE VILLAGE GREEN 2BR/2BA VILLA. New roof, A/C, water heater, and hurricane windows. Asking $179,000. Call 813-777-5472. PERICO ISLAND 301 108th Street West 3BR/3BA townhouse, Furnished $269,900. Sharon Hightower RE/ MAX Alliance Group sharonsellsbeaches@yahoo. com 941-330-5054
RENTALS: ANNUAL 2BR/2BA CONDO IN CORTEZ at Smugglers Landing. 2 pools and workout room. Tile in most of unit, washer / dryer inside. 40 ft. boat slip. Split floor plan & under building parking. Background & credit required. $1800 per month & security. BRADENTON 1BR/2BA upstairs condo on 75th St. near St. Peter & Paul . Water, sewer basic cable incl. $925/mo $925 security dep. $100 application fee. Ask for Ed DUNCAN REAL ESTATE 941-779-0304 www. teamduncan.com
Call us today! 941-778-3986
ANNUAL RENTAL and CONDOMINIUM Association management serviced by (2) offices open 7 days a week! Contact junew@ islandreal.com – 941-3451295 - Island Real Estate of Anna Maria Island, Inc. 2BR/2BA half duplex in Heritage Pines $995 annual lease. 2BR/2BA furnished in West Bay Cove $1600 annual lease. 1BR/1BA unfurnished duplex on island $1050 annual lease. 2BR/2BA furnished at West Bay Point Moorings $1850 annual lease Contact A Paradise 941-778-4800 HOLMES BEACH 2BR/1BA DUPLEX includes water & garbage. $1170/mo. Available July 1. First, Last & one month security deposit. Application required. Call 941-809-2488 BRADENTON: CHARMING UPDATED 2BR/1BA Duplex. 2111B 6th Ave W. $1100/mo First, Last & Security Deposit plus Credit Check. Call 941809-2488
ANNUAL RENTALS- HOLMES BEACH 2BR/1.5BA, carport, storage, W/D hookups $1,720/mo. No Pets, Non-Smoking. Holmes Beach 3BR/2BA elevated duplex, garage, screened lanai, W/D hookups $1,920/mo. Non-Smoking. Call Fran Maxon Real Estate for details 941-778-2307.
RENTALS: SEASONAL & VACATION TIFFANY PLACE Gulf Front Condo for Rent Incredible views from living room and master bedroom. 2BR/2BA Green Real Estate Call 941-778-0455
ANNA MARIA ISLAND, Fl Condos. Pool beach access, fully equipped $650-$800/ wk Redekercondos.com 941-704-7525 or 941-7781915
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SUMMER WEEKLY RENTALS Available: 2BR/1BA Gulf front from $1,100 per week. 2BR with sleeping loft Bayfront from $1,100 per week, 4BR/3BA Bayside from $1,450 per week. No pools. 2018 SEASONAL RENTALS Available: 2BR/1BA Gulf front from $3,850 per month, 2BR with sleeping loft from $3,850 per month. Three month minimum. Horizon Realty of Anna Maria 941-778-0426 kringco@ tampabay.rr.com NORTH SHORE DRIVE, Anna Maria. 3BR/2BA Seasonal Rental across the street from Gulf. Heated Pool. AMIRENTAL.com GREAT SUMMER RATES! Weekly, Monthly. 3BR/2BA NW Bradenton. Call Grace 941-2012190
TRANSPORTATION AMI TAXI metered-on-callcards accepted. Airport: Tampa $95, Sarasota $40, Clearwater $85, Orlando $165. Call 800-301-4816. amitaxi4u@gmail.com, www.amitaxi.com
ANYTIME TRANSPORTATION to all airports, appointments, casino, cruises, etc. Tampa $60. Sarasota $30. Pets welcome. Very dependable. Reasonable rates. Contact Jeanne. 941-779-5095
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Call today to place your ad: 941-778-3986 movers
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