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VOL 18 No. 23
March 21, 2018
CHANTELLE LEWIN | SUN
KRISTIN SWAIN | SUN
MAGGIE FIELD | SUN
KRISTIN SWAIN | SUN
Clockwise from top: The Victorian pirates of Firestone Gallery lead the Anna Maria Island Privateers atop the Skullywag pirate ship in the finale of the St. Patrick’s Day parade.; organizer Sean Murphy patrols the parade route on his scooter; a dancer from Rowlette Middle Academy does a hand stand; the Southeast High School Marching Band was a big hit with the crowd; as were the four or five camels sporting green attire and the occasional passenger. MIKE FIELD | SUN
Going green for St. Patrick’s Day Thanks to Sean Murphy, the 20th Annual Beach Bistro St. Patrick’s Day Parade was arguably the best one yet. BY KRISTIN SWAIN SUN STAFF WRITER | kswain@amisun.com
The luck of the Irish descended on Holmes Beach March 18 in the form of a beautiful day and record crowds for the annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade, created, sponsored and presented by local restaurateur Sean Murphy. People came out in the emerald green
INSIDE NEWS 4 OPINION 6 SUN SURVEY 7 OUTDOORS 26-27 POLICE REPORTS 31 ENTERTAINMENT 33 REAL ESTATE 36-41 SPORTS 42
finery to line Marina Drive as marching bands, bagpipers, Irish dancers and even some camels took to the streets in celebration of the holiday. “This is just wonderful,” one Canadian visitor said, collecting strands of beads and candy for her grandchildren. “I’ve never seen anything like it.” The parade kicked off with patrons lining the street as Holmes Beach Police Chief Bill Tokajer led participants north to Palm Drive. He was accompanied by the musicians, skate boarders, a lot of festively decorated golf carts, a few antique cars and even some pirates
THE 2018 Tour
of Homes offers a glimpse into Island living. 13
Anna Maria Island, Florida
decked out in green for the occasion. While onlookers were excited for the decorated floats, the favorite sight in the over-the-top spectacle wasn’t the sparkling leprechauns but the four camels, with one ridden by a shimmering green Irish lass in the lead. Thankfully, no one reported being the recipient of any sort of camel expectoration. Ending the parade with an actual bang were the Anna Maria Island Privateers atop the land-bound Skullywag pirate ship, firing off black powder shots and tossing colorful beads to the crowd. The red Sarasota trolley, deco-
rated with festive four-leaf clovers and shimmering green garlands, concluded the parade. This is the 20th year Murphy’s restaurant Beach Bistro has organized and sponsored the parade. What started out as a family event has morphed into a way to celebrate the holiday, bringing locals and visitors together to view what’s believed to be the largest St. Patrick’s Day parade south of Savannah, Ga., though Murphy noted in a pre-parade conversation with The Sun, it might very well be the only parade of its kind in the area.
AN OIL AND gas drilling ban is proposed for the November ballot. 5 FERRY to AMI doesn’t float with
commissioners. 28 The Island’s award-winning weekly newspaper www.amisun.com
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Fishermen ask Floridians to vote against net ban BY CINDY LANE SUN STAFF WRITER | clane@amisun.com
CORTEZ – Nearly 25 years after Floridians voted to ban gill nets, commercial fishermen are asking the Florida Constitution Revision Commission (CRC) to let voters revisit that decision in November. Cortez commercial fisherman Mark Coarsey gave the commission several reasons to place the issue on the ballot at a 10-hour public hearing on Tuesday, March 13, in St. Petersburg that drew 430 people speaking on proposals ranging from greyhound racing to oil drilling. The net ban has undermined the state’s Fresh From Florida seafood campaign because Florida fishermen cannot catch enough fish to meet market demands without the banned nets, opening the door to more foreign seafood imports, said Coarsey, president of the Manatee chapter of Fishing For Freedom. “The nets we are made to use are not commercially feasible,” he said, catching more unwanted juvenile fish than the outlawed two-inch mesh nets that let smaller fish escape.
SUBMITTED
Mark Coarsey, president of the Manatee Chapter of Fishing For Freedom, spoke to the Florida Constitution Revision Commission in St. Petersburg on Tuesday, March 13, about reversing the net ban. He has demonstrated this with the two types of nets at the last two Cortez Commercial Fishing Festivals, where more than 500 people signed a petition to reinstate the banned nets, he said. Frustrated that commissioners were looking at their phones during the two minutes allotted to him, Coarsey left his notes and spoke informally, making eye
contact to regain their attention, he said later, adding that Commission Chair Carlos Beruff left the podium when Coarsey’s name was called. Cortezians vocally opposed Beruff’s planned development, Aqua by the Bay, across Sarasota Bay from the fishing village. “Let the fishermen run the fishery,” Coarsey told commissioners. “They
know what they need to do. They’re more environmentalist than anybody. That’s their livelihood. “We need y’alls help. Every time we come up with an idea to get our nets back, they change the law,” he said, referring to Florida court cases on the issue that have been repeatedly decided and overturned. The net ban was put back into place after appeals with influence from recreational fishing groups and activists with political interests, Nathaniel Anderson, of Fishing For Freedom’s Manatee chapter, told commissioners. “The legislation was written without using due process or utilizing sciencebased research,” violating the civil rights of fishermen, he said. The net ban was passed illegally, having been placed on the ballot using false information, Anderson told commissioners. Florida voters approved the ban in 1994 after a highly publicized media campaign showing dolphins and sea turtles caught in what were purportedly Florida commercial fishermen’s nets, disputed at the time and later disproved. SEE NET BAN, PAGE 32
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ISLAND NEWS
IN BRIEF
Mainsail cleared for new duplex unit build Holmes Beach Building Official Jim McGuinness released the construction hold on the addition of a new duplex unit at the Mainsail Beach Inn on Gulf Drive. Construction was stopped at the site while the density allowed on the property was investigated by the building department. McGuinness said his department verified the beach inn owners have the room and meet the density allowances to build a new duplex, two-unit addition to the 66th Street property while still meeting parking requirements.
Tree house case back in court The saga of the Holmes Beach tree house continues in court. With owners Lynn Tran and Richard Hazen passing the city’s deadline for a demolition application, instead presenting the city with a demand letter to allow the tree house to stand, city leaders moved to have the court enforce a previous code enforcement order to have the structure removed. While that case is pending in court, the tree house owners attorney filed in Manatee County Circuit Court for the dismissal of 2013 win for the city that wasn’t immediately prosecuted. The issue stems from a case challenging the 50-foot coastal construction setback. While the court sided with the city, the city didn’t move to prosecute the win within a year. City Attorney Patricia Petruff said the outcome of the new case won’t affect the legal enforcement of the code enforcement order to remove the tree house. “We’re off to the races again,” she said.
Center hosts free community health fair The Center of Anna Maria Island is partnering with the LECOM School of Pharmacy to bring a free community health fair to Anna Maria. During the event, students will offer free blood sugar and blood pressure testing along with consultations on results. Information also will be available on diabetes and hypertension. A pharmacist will be on-hand to offer information about medications. The event takes place 9 a.m. to noon Thursday, March 29, at the Center, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria. For more information, contact Chris Culhane at 941-778-1908 or christopher@centerami.org.
Correction Vacasa manages more than 7,000 vacation homes worldwide with 1,800 employees. A company spokesman told tourism officials otherwise.
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MARCH 21, 2018
Time to build your bonnet
The Ninth Annual Easter Bonnet contest will be held on Saturday, March 31, at 317 Pine Ave. following the Easter Egg Hunt on the beach behind the Sandbar restaurant. There are two contests, one for children and
one for adults. The winner of the children’s contest gets a lunch for four at the Sandbar and the adult winner gets a two-night stay at an Anna Maria guest house on Pine Avenue. The bonnet contest starts at 10:30
a.m., right after the Easter egg roll. There is still time to make up a bonnet. It may be funny, luxurious or something far out. For more information, call Tina Chiles at 941-778-8710.
Golf Classic combines philanthropy and fun Golfers will have the opportunity to win a new car by scoring a hole in one. BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
BRADENTON – The Fourth Annual Anna Maria Island Rotary Club Golf Classic is scheduled for Wednesday, April 4, at 1 p.m. Interested golfers can still register for the tournament taking place at the IMG Academy Golf Club in Bradenton. Limited to 120 golfers, the tournament features foursomes playing in a scramble format. The entry fee is $100 per golfer and includes 18 holes of golf, an electric cart, lunch, an awards dinner and on-course beverages. You do not need to be a Rotary Club member to play in the Golf Classic. For tournament registration or sponsorship information, call Dennis Schuermann at 727-742-0762 or email him at dschuermann@msn.com. Tournament sponsors include The Sun and LaPensee Pools. This year’s winning foursome will take home cash prizes. Several other awards and raffle prizes will also be given away. If someone shoots a hole-in-one on the designated par 3, they will win a new Volkswagen from Boast Volkswagen in Bradenton. When asked if anyone has won a car in the club’s past tournaments, AMI Rotary Club Vice President Judy Rup said, “Not yet; that would be nice.” Holmes Beach resident, Rotarian and tournament participant David Zaccagnino said, “It’s always a fun time at a great course for one of the best service organizations on the Island. The raffle prizes will include a wheelbarrow full of adult spirits currently valued at approximately $500. “Anybody can buy raffle tickets. It’s
FILE PHOTO
Rotarian David Zaccagnino tees off during last year’s tournament, joined by teammates Mike Stringer, Nate Talucci and John Coleman. a way to contribute to the projects we do on the Island, especially if they’re not golfers,” Rup said. Raffle tickets are now selling for $10 per ticket or $20 for three tickets. The winner does not have to be present to win. To purchase raffle tickets, call Rup at 941-518-1965 or touch base with her at one of the club’s weekly meetings. Open to the public, the AMI Rotary Club meets at the Bridge Street Bistro in Bradenton Beach each Tuesday at noon.
AMI ROTARY CAUSES
The annual Golf Classic is the AMI Rotary Club’s largest annual fundraiser. Last year’s tournament raised approximately $10,000. “100 percent of the money we earn goes to our projects,” Rup said. This year’s proceeds will again support several Rotary programs at Anna Maria Elementary School. These include the annual Peace Day Ceremony, the Character Building Program, the Rotary Reader Dolphin Project, new books for the school library, dictionar-
ies for all third-grade students, an essay contest for fourth graders and the Service Above Self Award presented to one fifth-grade student. The fundraiser will benefit the AMI Rotary’s Learn to Swim Program that teaches water safety, basic swimming strokes and lifesaving skills to at-risk youths. It will also benefit the Anna Maria Island Concert Chorus and Orchestra Young Solo Artist Competition. The AMI Rotary maintains a welcome sign that greets those entering the Island on Manatee Avenue and a bench at the Manatee County Beach in the changing room area. “We work with other Manatee County Rotary Clubs on projects that affect our community. We just worked at a Rotary food packing event that packed over 50,000 meals to be distributed in Manatee County,” Rup said. “We are working with the six other clubs in Manatee County to build three all-inclusive playgrounds that can accommodate children of all abilities. The first will be at the G.T. Bray Park (in Bradenton),” she added.
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Oil drilling proposal may be on ballot CINDY LANE SUN STAFF WRITER | clane@amisun.com
As the eighth anniversary of the Deepwater Horizon disaster approaches, a proposal to prohibit drilling for oil or natural gas in Florida’s coastal waters is one of 36 in the running to be placed on the November ballot for voters to decide. The Florida Constitution Revision Commission (CRC) is scheduled to meet for five days beginning on Monday, March 19, to decide which, if any, of the proposals – and several others initiated by citizens – will make it onto the ballot. Every 20 years, the commission is appointed to review proposals that would amend the state constitution with 60 percent of the popular vote. Statewide public hearings on the proposals ended last week. Proposal 91, sponsored by CRC member Jacqui Thurlow-Lippisch, would prohibit drilling for exploration or extraction of oil or gas beneath all state waters between the mean high water line and the outermost boundaries of the state’s territorial seas. “We have a chance to make history
FILE PHOTO
Protestors drew a line in the sand against oil drilling on Anna Maria Island’s beaches in 2010. and turn the ship. We would be the only state in the nation to have this in our state constitution,” Thurlow-Lippisch wrote in a press release. “The oil and gas industry claim oil drilling is safe and that it would be good for Florida’s economy and job creation. I say, look no further than what happened in Louisiana during the BP oil spill. "Drilling so close to shore, as is done in other coastal southern states, has the potential to be visually, environmentally and economically destructive to Florida’s unique marine, wildlife, real
estate and tourism resources.” The proposal has been supported by environmental groups and representatives from the fishing industry, including local groups Suncoast Waterkeeper and the Manatee Fish and Game Association. Lucan Thompson, of St. Petersburg, said during the final CRC public hearing on Tuesday, March 13, that Proposal 91 would “protect us from air and water pollution.” “Oil is not sustainable,” Jeanie Ghafari told commissioners, reminding
them that the Deepwater Horizon/BP explosion and spill on April 20, 2010, killed 11 people. “What is at risk? Oil spills are not contained in the ocean. They contaminate the shoreline. They can last more than 30 years like the Exxon Valdez,” she said. “Tourism feeds Florida’s economy. Are we willing to destroy tourism, our main industry? Are we willing to destroy the shoreline for decades? Are we willing to contaminate the Florida aquifers that millions of families depend on? Are we willing to kill fish and other sea life? I say no.”
FLORIDA NOT SAFE
U.S. Sen. Bill Nelson (D-FL) warns that despite a federal moratorium on drilling within 125 miles of Florida's coast, which expires in 2022, and despite U.S. Department of the Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke’s assurance to Gov. Rick Scott earlier this year that the waters off Florida’s Gulf Coast would remain off limits to drilling, the Trump administration appears to be including Florida in a new, five-year offshore oil leasing proposal. SEE OIL, PAGE 32
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OPINION
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Sen. Nelson makes case to ban drilling in Florida waters Editor's note: This letter was written by Florida Sen. Bill Nelson to Ryan Zinke, secretary of the U.S. Department of the Interior.
A
fter hearing directly from Florida residents and business owners, I’m writing again to make sure you are fully aware of the widespread and vehement opposition to drilling off of Florida’s Atlantic and Gulf coasts. As you know, I absolutely oppose opening up the Atlantic to drilling, as well as any part of the Eastern Gulf of Mexico currently under moratorium. And I will keep working to extend that statutory moratorium beyond 2022. As communities in the Florida Keys continue to clean up debris and rebuild from Hurricane Irma, it is abundantly clear that the Straits of Florida, too, is an area totally unsuitable for offshore drilling platforms and equipment. A major oil spill could do untold damage to Florida’s coral reefs, birds and wildlife, including endangered species. And since Florida’s waters provide the spawning ground for many fish species, damage to their habitat in Florida could have consequences for fisheries all the way up the Atlantic seaboard. Florida’s world-famous beaches, vibrant fisheries, and clear waters are the core of the state’s tourism-driven economy. When the Deepwater Horizon rig exploded nearly eight years
ago, Florida lost an entire season of tourism. That’s why it’s no surprise that Chambers of Commerce from Destin all the way down to Miami Beach have passed resolutions expressing their opposition to drilling off Florida’s shores. Dozens of county commissions and city governments in Florida have done the same, and many filed comments specifically objecting to the 2019-2024 Draft Proposed Program. In addition to the economic and environmental risks, drilling off Florida’s coast poses a direct threat to our national security interests. While I understand the Department of Defense is working with the Department of the Interior to update its assessment of potential conflicts, there is no doubt that preserving the full Eastern Gulf Test and Training Range is critical, especially as our armed forces begin training with the next generation of weaponry. For example, in recent years the southern area of the range that borders Naval Air Station Key West hosted an average of over 1,000 missions per year. In an April 2017 letter, Acting Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness A. M. Kurta confirmed that “the moratorium is essential for developing and sustaining our nation’s future combat capabilities.” Similarly, the waters off of Kennedy Space Center are a critical launch range for NASA, the Air Force and
A major oil spill could do untold damage to Florida's coral reefs, birds and wildlife, including endangered species." Senator Bill Nelson
the commercial space industry as they continue to test, launch and land more and more rockets from the world’s busiest spaceport. With all this in mind, I am concerned that Floridians still may not have had the opportunity to adequately express their concerns about Interior’s proposal to open Florida’s waters to drilling because of the misinformation surrounding your Jan. 9 comments that Florida was “off the table.” I wrote to you nearly two months ago to ask for clarification about those comments and have yet to receive a response. In the meantime, Interior conducted public meetings – including the meeting in Tallahassee last month
– using maps that clearly showed Florida was still being analyzed for potential lease sales. And during a Jan. 19 House Natural Resources Committee hearing, Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) Acting Director Walter Cruickshank confirmed that when he stated that Florida was still being considered for both drilling and seismic testing in the 2019-2024 Draft Proposed Program. This unfairly confuses the public, who deserve an honest and complete answer as to the risk Florida still faces under the current proposal. Under Section 18 of the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act, the Interior Department is required to balance oil and gas interests with environmental sensitivities and the policies of affected states, such as Florida’s Coastal Management Program. From everything I have discussed in this letter and all I have heard from my constituents, there is no justification for including Florida in the five-year plan. Once again, I strongly urge you to truly take Florida off the table by removing the Atlantic Coast, the Straits of Florida, and the entire eastern Gulf of Mexico moratorium area from consideration for future lease sales. Please include this letter in the public comment record for the 2019-2024 Draft Proposed Program. Sincerely, Bill Nelson
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
Pier trellis ill-advised idea The architectural rendering of the new pier was quite attractive, but I noticed several items of concern. The trellis shade roof on such an exposed building is a sitting duck for high winds. It would not take a Category 5 hurricane to get under the eaves and take out the entire roof along with the solar panels. The old roof did not have such extended protrusions and look what happened. Furthermore, the proposed design does not have railings. Considering today's litigious minded society, that is an invitation for an expensive negligence-based lawsuit. Yes, some will say that the old pier had no railings and nothing ever happened. Nevertheless, it is an accident waiting to
happen. If one would check the historic photos of the original pier they will see that it was equipped with full length railings. Of course, we all want a beautiful new pier, but safety and resistance to storms should also be considered. Bill Henn Anna Maria
Use beach access
An empty lot after a home has been demolished is not an invitation for sightseeing, yoga, fishing or updating your Instagram. It is still private property. Unless you have permission by the owner please, please, please respect the neighbors privacy and use designated public beach access. Natalia Rizzo Holmes Beach
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ON THE AGENDA
THE SUN SURVEY
PREVIOUS QUESTION: Are you in favor of the proposed one-mill property tax increase to support Manatee County and charter schools?
64%
I am opposed to the tax increase.
ANNA MARIA
HOLMES BEACH
March 22, 6 p.m. – City Commission meeting For information, call 7086130
March 21, 3 p.m. – Parks and Beautification Committee meeting March 22, 10 a.m. – HBPD community forum March 27, 6 p.m. – City Commission meeting with work session to follow For information, call 7085800
10005 GULF DRIVE
BRADENTON BEACH 107 GULF DRIVE N.
March 21, 1 p.m. – Planning and Zoning Board meeting For information, call 7781005
5801 MARINA DRIVE
MARK YOUR CALENDAR NOTE: EVENTS ARE FREE UNLESS INDICATED.
WEDNESDAY MARCH 21
36%
I am in favor of the tax increase.
THE SUN SURVEY IS NOT A SCIENTIFIC POLL AND IS USED FOR ENTERTAINMENT PURPOSES ONLY.
THIS WEEK’S SURVEY Would you vote for or against a constitutional amendment ban-
• I would vote for such a ban. • I would vote against such a ban.
ning oil and gas drilling in Florida state waters?
To vote, go to www.amisun.com or scan this code to vote by smartphone. LIKE us on our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/AnnaMariaIslandSun View The Sun’s online edition at www.issuu.com/AnnaMariaIslandSun The Anna Maria Island Sun staff Publishers Mike Field Maggie Field Editor/CEO Mike Field Layout Ricardo Fonseca Reporters Cindy Lane Tom Vaught Joe Hendricks
Kristin Swain Columnists Louise Bolger Outdoors editor Rusty Chinnis Ad director Chantelle Lewin Ad assistants Chris Boniberger Diane Martin
Classified ads Bob Alexander Graphics Elaine Stroili Ricardo Fonseca Digital/Social Media Editor Cindy Lane Accounting John Reitz
Distribution Bob Alexander Tony McNulty Connor Field Contributors Pat Copeland Steve Borggren Sean Murphy Monica Simpson
Roser-Robics chair-based exercise class, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, 9:30 a.m. Memoir Writing, The Folk School at Florida Maritime Museum, 4415 119th St. W., Cortez, 10 a.m., $20. Beach Market, Coquina Beach, 2650 Gulf Drive S., Bradenton Beach, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. For information call 941-518-4431. Gentle chair yoga, Anna Maria Island Art League, 5312 Holmes Blvd., Holmes Beach, noon. Road Scholar, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2 p.m. Sea Turtles and Shorebirds and Snowbirds, Oh My! lecture, Florida Maritime Museum, 4415 119th St. W., Cortez, 3 p.m. Shanty Singers, Florida Maritime Museum, 4415 119th St. W., Cortez, 2 to 4 p.m.
THURSDAY MARCH 22
Veteran services information, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 9 a.m. Native Pollinators class, The Folk School at Florida Maritime Museum, 4415 119th St. W., Cortez, 10 a.m., $35. Zumba and mat pilates for seniors, The Paradise Center, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, second floor, 10 a.m., $10 per class. Reserve to maryannbrady@ theparadisecenter.org or 941-383-6493. Quilting, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m.
ACBL open pairs duplicate bridge, The Paradise Center, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, second floor, 1 p.m., $11 per game with coffee and snacks provided. Reserve to 941-216-9600 or sjbrill@aol.com. Meet the author with Vicki Mickelson, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 1 p.m. Reiki I, The Paradise Center, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, second floor, 1 p.m., $75 for three-part series. Reserve to maryannbrady@ theparadisecenter.org or 941-383-6493. Insects Impact Human Culture: Past and Present lecture with John Stoffolano, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2 p.m. Jam in the Sand, Anna Maria Island Beach Café, 4000 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, 5 to 8 p.m. Sailing Vessels of the Snapper Fishing Industry exhibit opening, Florida Maritime Museum, 4415 119th St. W., Cortez, 5:30 p.m. Bingo, Annie Silver Community Center, 103 23rd St. N., Bradenton Beach, 6 to 9 p.m.
FRIDAY MARCH 23
Roser-Robics chair-based exercise class, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, 9:30 a.m. Forty Carrots, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m. Ringling College Lifelong Learning Academy Lecture Series, The Paradise Center, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, 2nd Floor, Longboat Key, SEE CALENDAR, PAGE 43
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Traffic woes plague Island drivers It’s easy for traffic to pile up on Anna Maria Island, but there may not be any easy fixes to the problem. BY KRISTIN SWAIN SUN STAFF WRITER | kswain@amisun.com
ANNA MARIA ISLAND – Everyone who’s driven on the Island during winter season months knows that a little extra time and a lot of patience is needed to deal with traffic delays. The Florida Department of Transportation’s Barrier Island Traffic Study recorded hourly numbers of motorists on Manatee Avenue as high as 40 percent over regular traffic volumes during peak season times, January through April 2017, with the traffic on Cortez Road noted as 15 percent over average volumes. That comes out to about 1,500-1,600 cars per hour on Manatee Avenue and 1,200-1,400 on Cortez Road. Once they’re on the Island, there’s only so many places for all those cars to go. During the same time, FDOT contractors recorded an average of 1,000 cars an hour on Marina Drive with the same number also driving down Gulf Drive to Bradenton Beach. “It’s like taking 30 pounds of potatoes and trying to put it in a 5-pound sack,” said
KRISTIN SWAIN | SUN
Every time the Anna Maria Island Bridge raises to allow a boat to pass it can take up to 15 minutes for traffic patterns to return to normal. Holmes Beach Police Chief Bill Tokajer, who also serves as the city’s traffic engineer. “There’s no where to send the traffic. People are driving out to a dead end.” Part of the issue is that for everyone coming onto the Island, they need somewhere to go, and everyone already on the Island is trying to get somewhere. Rather than merging, the two traffic streams are clashing as parking becomes more limited and streets fill with vehicles. Holmes Beach Mayor Bob Johnson referred to Queue Theory, a mathematical study of waiting lines, to explain it. He
likened it to waiting in line to check-in at the airport. He said waiting lines move faster because airlines open up more counters to serve guests. According to the theory, lines can only move as quickly as the person in front is being served. If the person at the front of the line is a driver who’s stuck at a red light or can’t find a parking space, the line builds up and the wait time for other drivers increases. The issue, Johnson said, is there’s only so many gateways to the Island, three including access from Longboat Key, and potentially
1,000 people trying to use each one at the same time. One long-term fix to help traffic coming from the mainland is the installation of high fixed-span bridges in place of the Anna Maria Island and Cortez bridges. Eliminating the 5-minute raising and lowering of the current drawbridges could save motorists up to 15 minutes of wait time. In Holmes Beach, Tokajer also is working to optimize the timing of the red lights at East Bay Drive and Manatee Avenue and Gulf Drive and Manatee Avenue to allow traffic to flow better once the bridge reopens. Another short-term solution being considered in Holmes Beach is to extend the right turn lane for East Bay Drive down to the merge lane from the Manatee Public Beach and extend the right turn lane on Manatee Avenue for Gulf Drive to allow motorists more freedom of movement. One of the fixes proposed by the traffic study engineers at Stantec is to have a park and ride service from the mainland down Manatee Avenue to the county beach. Without a dedicated traffic lane, Tokajer doesn’t think that idea will be popular with beachgoers. SEE TRAFFIC, PAGE 10
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MARCH 21, 2018
TRAFFIC: Woes plague Island FROM PAGE 9
“They’re still stuck in the same traffic but without the comfort of their own car,” he said and also expressed concern about what happens to all those people if a rainstorm blows up. “How will you get them off the Island?” he said. Lynn Burnett, engineer to the three Island cities, thinks she may have some long-term solutions to help traffic, if not eliminate it, ideas the people behind the traffic study are getting behind. One idea is to remove traffic lights and install roundabouts slightly larger than the one at Bridge Street and Gulf Drive in Bradenton Beach. Burnett said the roundabouts will encourage free flow of traffic, if motorists obey the rules of the road. FDOT encourages the use of roundabouts. The department’s educational materials for the use of roundabouts says that all approaching traffic must yield to traffic already in the roundabout. Approaching motorists must slow down before entering the roundabout, yield to bicyclists entering the traffic lane
and watch for pedestrians crossing the road at one of the roundabout entrance points. Burnett said with the right public education, she thinks roundabouts will help traffic move faster than red lights, hopefully lowering the wait time of drivers trying to enter and exit the Island. At busy intersections such as the Gulf Drive and Marina Drive intersection, it also would allow a safe way for pedestrians to cross the street. Due to several close calls at that intersection with cyclists and pedestrians crossing without a marked crosswalk, Tokajer said he hopes to install a sidewalk railing to prevent people from entering the intersection and signage to direct them to a safe, lighted crosswalk. The matter goes before city commissioners for a decision in April. To truly make a difference in the vehicular Island traffic, Burnett said people need alternate forms of transportation. While the Island trolley does move people around the Island, it still lands in the same vehicular traffic as a car. Burnett hopes to receive Island city support, along with local, state
KRISTIN SWAIN | SUN
Traffic piles up at the intersection of Marina and Gulf drives March 14. To encourage freeflow traffic, City Engineer Lynn Burnett hopes to put in a roundabout at the intersection. and federal funding, for a complete street project stretching the length of the Island from Anna Maria through Bradenton Beach to Longboat Pass. If it materializes, the project would see vehicle lanes shrink to 11-feet wide with a designated bicycle lane on each side of the road and pedestrian sidewalks. The bicycle lanes would be brought up to current FDOT standards with a 3-foot clearance between the traffic lane and bicycle lane to help keep cyclists safe. The move also would remove
some bicycles from sidewalks along the Island’s main corridor, helping to keep pedestrians safe. For all the fixes proposed, three challenges remain – approval, time and money. Replacement of the Anna Maria Island and Cortez bridges is currently unfunded and expected to take at least another five years plus the time for construction. Intersection changes also need funding and approval from the state, county or local municipality, depending on whether the road is a local or state road. In the meantime, all drivers can do is plan ahead, help out their fellow motorist by allowing people to turn across crowded traffic lanes and wait their turn rather than trying to use bicycle lanes as passing lanes, something that can cause a hefty fine from local law enforcement. Bicyclists should remember to travel only in the direction of vehicular traffic and use bicycle lanes whenever possible, yielding to pedestrians on sidewalks. Pedestrians need to remember to be aware of their surroundings and look both ways before crossing a street, even at a crosswalk. “Just be kinder in traffic,” Tokajer said.
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MARCH 21, 2018
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Park improvements prompt larger questions City officials are examining their policies and procedures for allocating half-cent sales tax expenditures. BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
BRADENTON BEACH – City commissioners’ March 15 discussion on park improvements raised unanticipated questions about how the city’s half-cent sales tax revenues are allocated. Lou Barolo Park and Herb Dolan Park will receive new playground equipment and safety improvements at a City Commission-approved price of $52,844, paid for using half-cent sales tax revenues county voters approved in 2016. When presenting the park requests to the commission last week, Lt. John Cosby said an insurance-related inspection of the playground equipment purchased 15 years ago indicated a need for pending replacement. The $21,658 commissioners authorized for Lou Barolo Park includes $19,181 for playground equipment and $2,477 for safety improvements consisting of an expanded fall zone covered with a bleached and smoothed mulch. The $31,186 allocated for Herb Dolan Park includes $22,287 for playground equipment, $3,761 for swings and $5,138 for mulch. The price quotes Cosby received from Top Line Recreation included a 7 percent discount
for using a pre-approved vendor through an Osceola County school system bid. He said the city will receive an additional discount for being a repeat Top Line customer and grants might pay for the safety improvements.
TAX ALLOCATION
Adopted by the commission in September, the 2017-18 fiscal year budget includes $30,158 in half-cent sales tax revenues to be spent on parks. Cosby said this equates to 32 percent of the $94,244 in half-cent revenues and expenditures anticipated during the fiscal year. The expenditures also include $49,949 (53 percent) for streets and roads and $14,137 (15 percent) for public safety. Manatee County allotted 71 percent for street and roads, 15 percent for law enforcement and public safety and 14 percent for parks and recreation, using percentages recommended by a citizens’ advisory board. Cosby stated his belief that the city’s percentages were determined by voters, but the 2016 countywide ballot language included no percentages. It simply mentioned reducing congestion, improving streets and sidewalks and infrastructure for police departments, emergency response, libraries, parks, waterways, public buildings and stormwater. Regarding the 32 percent he assumed had been designated for parks, Cosby said, “We have to start thinking of other ways to spend that money within the
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
Lou Barolo Park is getting new playground equipment and city officials are getting a better understanding of how half-cent sales tax revenues can be allocated. park system. You’re talking quite a bit of money.”
QUESTIONS AND CLARIFICATION
During public input, The Sun asked how the city’s half-cent tax spending percentages were determined. Cosby said the various city commissions came up with their own percentages, and no one else could provide a clearer answer. “I don’t know the history of how ours got to the point that it did,” Cosby said, before stating the city’s percentages could not be changed. “That’s the way it is until the 15 years are up,” he said. “That’s a shame that we can’t change it,” Commissioner Jake Spooner said, noting he would like more spent on public safety – a sentiment Cosby agreed with.
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On Feb. 9, 2017, city officials received copies of an email Manatee County Director of Financial Management Jan Brewer originally sent to Holmes Beach Treasurer Lori Hill. Brewer’s email said it was up to each city to determine how to spend its half-cent tax revenues. “However, the parameters established by the referendum and the Florida Statue establishing the infrastructure sales tax should be your guide,” she wrote. On Monday, Brewer provided The Sun with the half-cent sales tax referendum ordinance and the accompanying resolution County Commissioners adopted on Aug. 9, 2016. Resolution R-16-128 established the county’s spending parameters and percentages and included a detailed list of half-
cent sales tax projects, while also providing for a citizen’s oversight committee. Brewer was asked if Bradenton Beach could change its percentages. “The Board of County Commissioners (BCC) reserves the right to change the category percentages they are receiving for transportation, public safety and parks. However, their resolution requires a public hearing in order to change the allocations, and the Infrastructure Oversight Committee must confirm each year in a report that the categories (if changed) have been changed appropriately,” she responded via email. “The city may spend their allocation of the tax within their city as they determine. The BCC has no input on this decision. Each city is its own governing authority in the eyes of the state,” she wrote. Former Mayor Bill Shearon presided over last year’s budget process. Multiple calls to city officials and city employees on Monday determined the city never formally adopted its half-cent expenditure percentages. Several possible reasons were given, but none were substantiated. City Attorney Ricinda Perry confirmed that she was never directed to draft a half-cent sales tax resolution and one does not exist – but that will likely change. “Those are the numbers that just kept floating around, but nobody could say where they came from,” Cosby said.
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Tour of Homes a success for The Center More than 700 people came out for the Center’s 25th Annual Tour of Homes fundraiser. BY KRISTIN SWAIN SUN STAFF WRITER | kswain@amisun.com
ANNA MARIA – A perfectly sunny day dawned, helping to make The Center of Anna Maria Island’s 25th annual Tour of Homes a success. More than 700 people came out to view the interiors of five elegantly appointed homes before making a final stop at the Center for the Tropical Treasures Boutique and Center Bazaar. While attendees could start at any of the six stops, the first listed stop in the official tour guide was Sand Dollar Cove, the dream home of Ron and Peggy Jude. The Holmes Beach house was completed in March 2017 by Moss Builders. The house features four bedrooms and three-and-a-half baths in 2,800 square-feet. To help comfortably house their seven grandkids, one unique feature of the home is a secret staircase connecting the kids bunk room to another bedroom where parents can keep an eye on the little ones. The house is complete with a
KRISTIN SWAIN | SUN
New to the Tour of Homes this year was the Center Bazaar, above. Right, the annual quilt raffle, created by the Eyeland Needlers and sponsored by Green Real Estate. large, open living space and doors opening directly to the outdoor living space and pool deck. "This is just a beautiful house," one attendee gushed. "If I had this house, I'd move here." Another stop on the tour was the home of Don and Leah Purvis in the enclave of Key Royale. The couple's love of New Orleans is evident throughout the home, from the wrought iron sconces to the antique mirror backsplash in the kitchen. Each room of the home features
KRISTIN SWAIN | SUN
Above, enterprising leprechauns set up shop, selling lemonade across from the Jude house in Holmes Beach. Right, the media room at the Gauld’s Key Royale home.
a unique piece of furniture chosen especially by the homeowners for its beauty and backstory. One of the most talked about pieces was a large 100-year-old armoire purchased by Don's mother and refinished by her in the 1980s. "It's incredible, just a beautiful piece," an attendee said while admiring the armoire. "You'd never believe it used to be painted pink." The winter home of Tom and Jane Gauld, also on Key Royale, was another stop on this year's Tour of Homes. The
home features high ceilings with wood details and a second-floor media room with a wall-sized screen and cozy sofa seating. The chef's kitchen opens to a dining room, living room and the expansive outdoor area with a pool and seating area overlooking the lovely water views. An indoor/outdoor living area leads to a separate kitchenette and staircase to a master suite where the owners' adult SEE TOUR, PAGE 43
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Shark dragging hearing scheduled All three defendants have ties to Manatee County. BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
TAMPA – Robert Benac, Spencer Heintz and Michael Wenzel have been ordered to appear at a felony court hearing on Monday, May 1. The three defendants and their friend, Nick Easterling, were involved in an incident last summer involving video footage of a shark being dragged behind a boat at a high rate of speed. Easterling was not charged with any alleged crimes. Dated March 8, each of the three defendants’ notice of hearing says, “You are hereby notified that the defendant is to appear in person before the honorable Mark Wolfe of the Criminal Court of Hillsborough County in courtroom 62, 6th floor, 401 N. Jefferson St., Tampa, on 5/1/2018 at 9 a.m.”
SUBMITTED
Robert Benac, Spencer Heintz and Michael Wenzel have been ordered to appear before a judge in May. The notices state the defendants are to enter the courthouse through the public entrance at 800 E. Twiggs St. The notices state the failure to appear may result in an arrest warrant being issued by the court, and any bonds posted in this matter will be subject to forfeiture if the defendants do not appear. In December, each of the defendants was charged with two third-degree felony counts of aggravated animal cruelty, and those felony charges are the subject of the May hearing. The crimes
allegedly occurred in the Gulf of Mexico, near Egmont Key, on June 26, 2017. Benac and Wenzel were also each charged with one second degree misdemeanor count of illegal taking of a shark. Video obtained by investigators showed Benac shooting with a speargun a shark caught earlier that day. Another video shows Wenzel shooting with a .38 revolver the shark that was later dragged behind the boat he was piloting. State law prohibits taking a shark in any other means than with a hook and line. The criminal affidavit pertaining to Benac listed a Sarasota address for him. Benac’s mother, Betsy, is a Manatee County Commissioner. The affidavits pertaining to Heintz and Wenzel listed Palmetto addresses. Wenzel’s father, Robert, is a planning section manager for Manatee County. Heintz’s father, Steven, is an attorney with the Heintz & Becker law firm that has offices in Bradenton and Sarasota.
Chamber has plans for April The Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce has gatherings planned for members and prospective members to network featuring snacks and refreshments plus a fun food event. Here’s the schedule. • IMG Academy Golf Club, at 4350 El Conquistador Parkway, Bradenton hosts the Chamber April networking luncheon on Wednesday, April 4, from 11:30a.m. to p.m. The cost to attend is $15 for members and $25 for prospective members. • The annual Beach’N Food Truck and Music Festival is scheduled for Saturday, April 14, from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. at Coquina Beach, just south of the Coquina Beach
Café / trolley stop at 2650 Gulf Drive S, Bradenton, Beach. This is is an all-day festival with live music, arts and crafts vendors, food trucks and adult beverages plus the Bill Mergens Memorial Car show with more than 100 antique, classic and custom automobiles on display from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Potential vendors should contact the AMI Chamber at 941-7781541 or info@amichamber.org. A few spots for arts and crafts vendors are still available. • The Anna Maria Island Historical Society, at 402 Pine Avenue, Anna Maria, hosts the Chamber business card exchange on Wednesday, April 25, from
5 to 7 p.m. The AMI Historical Society will present its annual scholarship award at this event. The cost to attend is $5 for members and $10 for prospective members. In addition, the Chamber is taking applications for four $1,000 scholarships to Manatee County high school seniors continuing their education in business. The deadline is April 30 and all applications are due at 5 p.m. The applications can be found on the AMI Chamber website, www.amichamber.org, by clicking on “Event and Scholarship Forms” under the “About the Chamber” drop down.
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Historic preservation efforts stall A commission discussion about preserving traditional bungalows and cottages also became a discussion about flood insurance. BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
BRADENTON BEACH – Commissioners discussed creating a historic preservation ordinance and board to slow the demolition of older ground level homes, but dismissed the idea due to concerns about triggering citywide flood insurance increases. The City Commission’s interest stemmed partially from the recent expiration of the voter-initiated building moratorium. It was also inspired by the updated historic preservation ordinance Anna Maria commissioners adopted last year – an ordinance not yet supported by the creation of the historic preservation board that would designate qualified homes and structures as historic. One goal of the Anna Maria ordinance is to encourage property owners to renovate traditional cottages and bungalows instead of demolishing them and replacing them with larger elevated homes. Designating a home historic can provide the property owner with an exemption to the Federal Emergency
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
This 2017 photo illustrates the contrast between a new elevated home and a traditional bungalow that retains its historic character, but is also potentially subject to higher flood insurance rates. Management Agency’s (FEMA) 50 percent substantial improvement rule. “If the cost of improvements or the cost to repair the damage exceeds 50 percent of the market value of the building, it must be brought up to current floodplain management standards,” the FEMA website says. Bringing a structure up to current floodplain standards generally means elevating it, which often results in new construction
rather than renovation, which in turn diminishes a community’s historic character. FEMA prefers elevated homes because they are less likely to produce a flood insurance claim to be paid by the FEMA-affiliated National Flood Insurance Program.
FLOOD INSURANCE CONCERNS
During the City Commission’s March 15 meeting, Building Official Steve Gilbert
shared his concerns about FEMA rule exemptions jeopardizing the city’s Community Rating System (CRS) rating. CRS ratings provides flood insurance discounts to those who own property in communities that engage in practices that reduce flood insurance claims. Bradenton Beach policy holders currently receive a 20 percent discount. “In order for us to grant them an exemption from the substantial improvement process, we have to give them a variance to maintain that structure on grade. If you do, you get dinged from the Community Rating System,” Gilbert said of ground level homes located below FEMA’s designated floodplain. “It would have to be something of historical significance, not just the age of the building or the type of construction. If it’s truly a historic structure and you’re not demonstrating a proclivity to grant variances, they will work with you, but the chances are very good that we would be retrograded and lose 5 percent of our premium discounts,” he added. Gilbert said Bradenton Beach was once kicked out of the National Flood Insurance Program for two years because in the late 1970s and early 80s the now-defunct board SEE PRESERVATION, PAGE 17
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Sign recommendations accepted with distressed white planks, with decorative Styrofoam gingerbreading attached to the bottom of the sign. Sign permits will be processed for the smaller signs that promote AMOB’s subtenants, and the non-permitted parasailing sign must be removed. The commission has not yet determined where to place the pelican-themed pier sign that once stood where the AMOB sign stands.
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Bradenton Beach Commissioners have accepted the Pier Team’s recommendations regarding modifications to the Anna Mayor Oyster Bar sign near the historic Bridge Street Pier. AMOB, the city’s pier tenant, is being asked to pay for its sign and pole to be lowered by three feet. The commission recommended the Community Redevelopment Agency pay for the sign to be top-lit and the sign and pole be framed
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With a finalized list of projects for funding, commissioners are ready to move forward with a vote and resolution to present to county commissioners, if the commissions from their sister Island cities agree.
money. With the fund now at just over $1.2 million, each of the three cities commissions have developed a wishlist for funding with the help of City Engineer Lynn Burnett. In Holmes Beach, Commission Chair Judy Titsworth said she’s keeping the matter on commission agendas until a submission to the county is made. After another review of the amended list, commissioners agreed to put it on a regular meeting agenda for official adoption before submitting to the county. Since Holmes Beach commissioners made changes to their request list, the full project list must go back before Bradenton Beach and Anna Maria commissioners for adoption before going to the county. The addition of $50,000 for beginning work to obtain a license plate recognition system for the Island through the Holmes Beach Police Department brought the city’s total ask to $375,623. Other projects on the list include city-wide bicycle
BY KRISTIN SWAIN SUN STAFF WRITER | kswain@amisun.com
RIE
NC
ES
HOLMES BEACH – Commissioners are almost ready to move forward with a request to pull from the excess concession fund account set up by Manatee County. The fund, filled with excess funds received by the county from Island beach concessionaires, is earmarked for use by the three Island cities on projects benefitting the Island. In order to access the funds, all three cities have to agree on the project and submit the request to Manatee County Commissioners for approval and release of the
and pedestrian path improvements in Holmes Beach and Bradenton Beach, pedestrian crosswalk signage, skate park and dog park improvements and new bike racks near beach access points. Anna Maria’s single ask was for $333,000 for the rebuild of the city pier. At the request of the Bradenton Beach commissioners, an additional line item for $100,000 for capital improvements to The Center of Anna Maria Island, divided into thirds, one for each Island city, also was added. With the inclusion of the funds for the HBPD and Center, the total ask from the Island communities amounts to $1,023,570. With the amended list finalized by Holmes Beach commissioners, Burnett said she’d take it back before Bradenton Beach and Anna Maria commissioners for approval and to hopefully obtain a signed resolution from each city commission for presentation to county commissioners during the current funding cycle.
XPE
of adjustment habitually granted variances for utility rooms and bathrooms on the ground floors of elevated homes. “That was before we had a Community Rating System program but you can see that the Federal Government doesn’t take kindly to that,” Gilbert said. Gilbert said variances granted for reduced building setbacks and other matters not related to floodplain management do not impact CRS ratings. CRS discounts help offset the phasing out of FEMA subsidies that contributed to lower flood insurance rates in the past. Flood insurance for ground level homes in coastal areas could cost $20,000 a year when FEMA subsidies are fully eliminated. Flood insurance is required for those who hold mortgages and is optional for those who don’t. Mayor John Chappie said he doesn’t know anyone who has flood insurance that isn’t issued by the National Flood Insurance Program. Gilbert said the federal government is also doing all it can to reduce or eliminate CRS discounts, and FEMA’s desire is that all homes in coastal communities eventually be elevated. Lt. John Cosby said the FEMA director recently expressed a desire to declare the entire state of Florida a flood and wind zone for insurance purposes. City Planner Alan Garrett said neither he nor Gilbert have the historical expertise to guide a historic preservation board, and the city would have to pay someone else to do that. With some lingering resistance from Commissioner Randy White, the commission agreed that a historic preservation ordinance would not produce the desired effect and therefore would not be pursued.
17
Holmes Beach pushes forward on concession fund request
sta lE
FROM PAGE 15
THE SUN
IQU EC oa
PRESERVATION: Talks stall
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MARCH 21, 2018
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DARA CAUDILL | WWW.ISLANDPHOTOGRAPHY.ORG
Caitlin Stevens and Adam McMahan were married on Nov. 5, 2017, at the Sandbar restaurant. For many years, Caitlin’s grandmother, Mary Lou brought Caitlin to the Sandbar to see Chuck Caudill perform on the deck. Mary Lou has photos of Caitlin with Chuck when she is just a little girl. Chuck was very proud to provide the music and sing for Caitlin’s wedding. Molly Powers and Jim Harwood, from the Sandbar, also coordinated. Caitlin and Adam honeymooned on Anna Maria Island before returning home to Denver, Colo.
DARA CAUDILL | WWW.ISLANDPHOTOGRAPHY.ORG
Leticia Cadena and David Foster were married on the beautiful beach of Anna Maria Island on June 6, 2017. Leticia and David honeymooned on Anna Maria Island before returning home to San Antonio, Texas.
GULF DRIVE CAFE | SUBMITTED
Andrea and Richard were married Saturday, Feb. 17, 2018, at The Sunset by Gulf Drive Café.They had their nieces and nephews closely by their side, as they said, "I do," with the bright blue waters of the Gulf behind them. Andrea and Richard are from Ruskin, Fla., and traveled to the island to share their beautiful love story.
Jackie Gleeson and Paul Root were married on Nov. 3, 2017, at the Gulf Drive Café. Their son Cooper served as ring bearer. Chuck Caudill provided the music for the ceremony and reception. The wedding was coordinated by Laura Snow, banquet manager of the Gulf Drive Café. Jackie and Paul honeymooned at the Tortuga Inn, before returning home to Hoschton, Ga. DARA CAUDILL | WWW.ISLANDPHOTOGRAPHY.ORG
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MARCH 21, 2018
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Fear and loathing in Las Vegas BY SEAN MURPHY SPECIAL TO THE SUN
T
his article is an edited rerun. I cut myself some slack because I ran a parade on Sunday. The parade was huuuuge. Last week an airline passenger suffered the heartbreaking loss of her pet. It made me appreciate how much I love my aggravating little dog and reminded me of a trip we shared. Jazz and I were returning from a family visit to Seattle. The first leg was Seattle to Vegas. I learned on the trip West that Jazz was resistant to tranquilizers and hated airplanes. Jazz barked the whole way to Seattle and tried to dig her way out of the pet carrier on my lap. It was a long six hours. For the return trip the vet recommended a different tranquilizer. I was advised to use two tablets. I set my mind on four. At eight in the morning I gave Jazz a pill. At nine I gave Jazz another pill. At 10:25 I was at the airport and Jazz was more alert than I was. Rather than put her in the carrier, I leashed her and walked her through the terminal. There was no sign the tranquilizers were working.
She did not like the escalators, but she was nimble in her entrance, rise and exit. I walked her on-leash through security to the gate. She barked at all the black people and tried to pee on all the food vendors. I was horrified by her treatment of the black people. I cut her some slack on the food vendors. Jazz has standards. She gets a lot of Bistro take home. At the waiting area, she barked aggressively at a poor skinny kid sitting next to us who appeared to be recovering from chemo. The kid looked decimated, weak and sad, and Jazz barked at him incessantly. The kid got up and left for another seat. I gave Jazz another pill. Jazz should have been out cold by then. I am an old white guy. It has been my observation that old white guys that travel alone with little dogs are not taken seriously. I was getting that look in the airport. “Oh, look at the old, white guy with the little dog barking at the black people.” While waiting in the Southwest line, Jazz whined and barked and tried to get out of the carrier. People were looking at me disapprovingly. “Look at the old, white guy hurting the little dog.”
We got on the plane. “No, you can’t sit in the exit row; you have a dog. You are an old white guy with a little dog, and you would be no good in an emergency.” “No, you don’t get to put a bag with a book under the seat because that’s where the dog goes.” I put Jazz’s backside under the seat in front of me. I moved into the aisle so a young black couple could get seated. Jazz barked at the man because apparently Jazz always barks at black people. They looked at me. “Great an old, white guy with a little dog that’s been trained to bark at black people.” Throughout takeoff Jazz barked and whined and wriggled. It was time for Plan B. Plan B involved a small dropper bottle of CBD oil developed for dogs with anxiety. I had scored some at a pot shop in Seattle. I also had a baggie of salami. Plan B was to feed Jazz salami coated with CBD oil. I steadied Jazz between my knees, and dripped oil onto the salami and into Jazz. Jazz gobbled the salami. People were staring. They smelled pot. “That silly old white guy is doing drugs with that dog.”
The bottle started leaking. The oil was on my fingers. It was on my clothes. Everyone smelled pot and salami. I smelled like a freshman at his first college party. Jazz got the munchies from the oil. Jazz wanted all that salami – NOW! Jazz was scrambling from the carrier – SALAMI – more SALAMI! She dove at the bag of salami. I dropped the CBD bottle, and it rolled, dribbling, into the aisle. Then it occurred to me. We were 35,000 miles in the air. We were not on the ground in Seattle where there is a liberal attitude toward marijuana use. We were on an airplane – federal jurisdiction – where marijuana is still an illegal substance – and the feds take a very dim view of anyone screwing around on an airplane. I was going to jail with this dog. We were not arrested, but Jazz was pretty stoned by the time we landed in Vegas. She staggered off the plane. She had done her weight in drugs. A canine Hunter S. Thompson. Fear and loathing in Las Vegas. I am grateful we both survived. I have decided I will never again travel with a dog on an airplane. I thank God we were not travelling United.
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MARCH 21, 2018
Rental registration deadline passes Vacation rentals operated in Bradenton Beach without a city-issued TPLE license are now subject to fines. BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
BRADENTON BEACH – Monday was the last day to register vacation rentals in Bradenton Beach without paying an additional $300 late fee. According to City Treasurer Shayne Thompson, 104 vacation rentals were registered with the clerk’s office as of early Friday afternoon, at an annual cost of $150. This was done in accordance with the revised quality of life ordinance and new transient public lodging establishment (TPLE) resolution adopted by city commissioners last August. Thompson said the city has issued 461 annual business tax receipt licenses for vacation rentals since the fiscal year began on Oct. 1. Those who own or manage multiple rental units can use a single business tax license, but Friday’s numbers suggest some owners have not yet registered their rentals.
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
Vacation rentals in Bradenton Beach are now subject to rental regulations contained in the amended Quality of Life Ordinance adopted last year. Those found operating a short-term vacation rental without a city-issued TPLE license are subject to a $125 fine on first offense and a $250 fine on second and subsequent offenses.
REGISTRATION REQUIREMENTS
The city uses the state of Florida’s definition of a short-term rental as one rented more than three times a year for 30 days or less, or advertised as a property held out for short-term rentals.
Owner-occupied rentals, resorts, hotels and motels with onsite management are exempt from the city’s TPLE licensing requirements. Individually-owned condominium units used as short-term rentals require a TPLE license. In November, advance notice and information packets were mailed to all known property owners informing them of the pending regulations, requirements and the Monday, March 19 registration deadline. Thompson
said email reminders were later sent to those holding vacation rental business tax licenses. The TPLE license application form requires the name and contact information of the property owner and the management company, if applicable; 24-hour contact information; the number of bedrooms; the number of parking spaces and more. Applicants must provide copies of their business tax receipt license, their state-issued Department of Business & Professional Regulation license, an exterior site sketch, an interior sketch of each floor, an owner/management affidavit and proof of compliance with state and county tax requirements. The city will not conduct annual inspections of vacation rental units. Inspections will be complaint driven.
ENFORCEMENT MEASURES
Licensed owner/operators received a black and white QR Code sticker to post outside their registered rental units. Using a smart phone application, police officers can access the owner/ agent information linked to the stickSEE RENTAL, PAGE 31
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MARCH 21, 2018
941.779.2337 9:00 AM - 10:00 PM 7 DAYS A WEEK 5344 3 GULF DRIVE, HOLMES BEACH
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OUTDOORS
JANUARY 17, 2018
Lefty Kreh: A true original
T
he world lost one of a kind last week with the passing of Bernard “Lefty” Kreh. Eulogizing an individual as complex and multi-talented as Kreh is a challenge. Although he was best known as a fly fishing savant, he was so much more than most people realize. Besides being an expert fly caster, fisherman, photographer, outdoorsman, hunter and writer, he was a pioneer, ambassador, guide, confidante, mentor, innovator, inspiration and, most importantly, a friend to those fortunate enough to cross his path. He was one of the funniest and most entertaining men I have ever known. I’ll never forget the delight on his face as he shared his infectious wit and the gales of laughter that sprang from the audiences he charmed. He was a people person in the truest sense. I was fortunate to have had the opportunity to spend quality time with him and learned invaluable lessons, not only on fly casting, but photography, writing and com-
Reel Time RUSTY CHINNIS munications in general. One of the things that impressed me most was that he would take the time to hand write a personal letter offering his advice to those who sought his guidance. I first met Lefty Kreh in the late 1980s, when he was the speaker at the Mangrove Coast Fly Fishers banquet in Sarasota. My friend, Captain Rick Grassett, was asked to take Kreh fishing during his visit and invited me along. During an evening of snook fishing, Kreh took an immediate interest in me and shared a tip when he noticed my camera case sliding around on the slippery boat deck. He had discovered that a piece of conveyor belt attached to the
RUSTY CHINNIS | SUN
Lefty educates and amuses a rapt audience at one of his fly casting demonstrations. bottom of his camera case would keep it from sliding on the deck. About a week
later a strip of the material arrived in the mail with a hand-written note. One of Lefty’s traits that I admired most was that he took a sincere interest in everyone he met and treated everyone with a genuine warmth. It didn’t matter if they were a plumber or the CEO of a major corporation, they got the same attention. Lefty was born in Frederick, Md., on Feb. 26, 1925. His father died when he was six, leaving him to support his mother and three siblings with the fishing and hunting skills he had learned from his dad. In 1947, he was introduced to saltwater fly fishing by pioneer Joe Brooks, whom he guided on the Chesapeake Bay. During their time together the two men developed techniques and patterns that formed the foundation of saltwater fly fishing. It was Brooks who encouraged Lefty to share his knowledge through SEE REEL TIME, PAGE 27
MARCH 21, 2018
REEL TIME: A true original FROM PAGE 26
Kreh reached thousands of anglers with columns he wrote in 15 newspapers including the St Pete Times, the Baltimore Sun and the Miami Herald. Lefty came to Florida in 1964 and ran the Miami Metropolitan Fishing Tournament until 1972. This was an incredibly influential period in which Kreh played a crucial role in the development of saltwater fly fishing in the Florida Keys. Kreh’s reach has been extensive, with published articles and photographs in fly fishing magazines all over the world. He authored more than 20 books, including LL Bean’s Guide to Outdoor Photography, plus books on fly casting, fly tying and knots, as well as numerous CDS and DVDS. All this is a small portion of Lefty’s many contributions. The importance of his influence on fly fishing is reflected in a US postage stamp in 1991 that featured a fly pattern, Lefty’s Deceiver, he developed with Brooks. Over the years, I took every opportunity I had to visit with him and soak up his unique style and expert guidance. I’ll miss Lefty, but like so many others, I will always carry him with me through the gifts I received. He was a man that, despite fame and accomplishments, remained the most authentic person I have ever met. A true original.
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Snook like warmer temps CAPTAIN DAVE WHITE
That cold front cooled the inshore bite down for a few days. But it seems the temps are climbing back to the zone that the snook like. I’ve been doing a lot of fly trips lately. The focus being on big Jack crevalle, trout and snook. Clouser flies seem to be the fly of choice right now. All of the baitfish on the flat are helping the situation as well. In the coming weeks, I’ll be spending some time offshore. Shooting for red grouper, blackfin tuna, and African pompano. The sheepshead bite remains pretty good right now as well. Using live shrimp around inshore structure will entice these tasty nuggets. Hopefully this temperature will bring these water temps up and turn this on a bit more!
CAPTAIN DAVE WHITE | SUBMITTED
Patrick McGinnis shows off a fly-caught snook with Captain David White, of Anna Maria Charters.
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MARCH 21, 2018
Ferry to Holmes Beach doesn’t float with commissioners While Holmes Beach commissioners aren’t sure they’re in favor of a ferry service from Fort DeSoto to the city, they are willing to have the conversation. BY KRISTIN SWAIN SUN STAFF WRITER | kswain@amisun.com
HOLMES BEACH – Commissioners have a lot of misgivings about a proposal from Corey Hubbard with Tampa Bay Ferry to the Island city, but they are willing to talk it out at a future work session. Commissioner Carol Soustek asked to have the issue placed on a future work session after a presentation by Hubbard during public comment. This was the second time Hubbard has appeared before commissioners on the issue. “I’m willing to talk about it,” Soustek said. “We need to look at alternatives to the traffic.” Hubbard proposes bringing a ferry from Fort DeSoto to a dock at the Waterline Marina Resort in Holmes Beach, carrying carless passengers to the commercial heart of the city. The primary stumbling block commissioners have with the idea is a lack of parking in an area where parking spaces are already at a premium. If Hubbard can secure formal parking agreements with local business owners, Soustek thinks some of the commissioners’ concerns could be alleviated. For her part, Hubbard argues that parking is unnecessary for the ferry. She said her staff would make sure that ferry passengers didn’t park at surrounding businesses and would encourage people coming to the ferry on the
SUBMITTED
A boat like this is what Tampa Bay Ferry operator Corey Hubbard hopes to use to bring visitors to Holmes Beach from Fort DeSoto. Island to take public transportation, cycle to the site or walk. “I think their concerns are legitimate,” Hubbard said, adding that she’s working to find solutions backed by research to help clarify the service she wants to offer. She said Waterline management and surrounding businesses are supportive of the effort, but leasing parking spaces remains an issue. She suggested a trial run for the ferry service, an idea that intrigued commissioners. One part of her presentation that didn’t sit well with city leaders was a statement that $1.5 million of the funds promised to the effort to rebuild the Anna Maria City Pier require the addition of a ferry terminal at that location. While the comment left Holmes Beach commissioners questioning why have two ferry terminals so close together, Anna Maria Mayor Dan Murphy denied that one would be required at the city pier. “There’s no reference to a ferry or a water taxi dock in our fund-
ing agreement with the county and the Tourist Development Council,” Murphy said. “And there’s no reference to a ferry or water taxi in our state appropriations request. What Ms. Hubbard said about our funding obligations is both untrue and ridiculous.” Holmes Beach Mayor Bob Johnson and Chief Bill Tokajer, the city’s traffic engineer, also weren’t thrilled by the idea of the ferry. Johnson said he fears the ferry will add more traffic congestion to the Island than it takes away. He said he’d like the parking issues addressed by Hubbard along with a plan demonstrating who the service targets as passengers prior to further discussions. Before city leaders seriously consider adding a ferry service, Tokajer suggested traveling to a nearby city that has a similar service to see what issues arose and if it does alleviate vehicular traffic. For his part, Johnson said, “Not interested. Not now.”
Join Grego and his amazing racing hermit crabsevery Tuesday at 7:00 PM
Slicker's Pig Roast This Sunday
4628 119th St W Cortez (941)798-2035 swordfishgrill.com Marker 49 by boat
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Holmes Beach entertains grand tree ordinance Commissioners are considering developing protection for large, mature trees in the city against removal due to construction. BY KRISTIN SWAIN SUN STAFF WRITER | kswain@amisun.com
HOLMES BEACH – Commissioners are beginning discussions to build a grand tree ordinance to help protect the city’s tree canopy from being diminished. Commissioner Carol Soustek brought the matter up during work session. With the city not having any protection for grand, or large, mature trees, on residential properties and no replanting requirements, she said the city is in danger of losing more of its established trees due to construction. Though Soustek said she understands some contractors may prefer to completely clear a lot to have a blank canvas to work with when
beginning construction, she feels many trees have been removed that may not have needed to be. Soustek suggested the city use an ordinance from Anna Maria as a template when beginning to build the Holmes Beach ordinance. “I like what Anna Maria has done,” she said. If the city goes the route of the Anna Maria ordinance, trees larger than 24 inches around at the trunk would be considered grand trees and unable to be removed unless the tree is proven to encumber construction or a homeowner can show just cause why the tree needs to be removed. Building Official Jim McGuinness, whose department would have to issue permits to remove grand trees, said he’s in favor of the idea. Commissioner Judy Titsworth said she’d like to see an ordinance that addresses the types of trees the city would like to protect, not an ordinance based solely on tree size.
‛S YOUR COMFORT ZONE? WHERE
Soutek said one of her primary concerns is the loss of tree canopy in the city, citing a 2014 study by Keep Manatee Beautiful that showed a 31 acre decrease in tree canopy in Holmes Beach over a 10 year period. “That was in 2014 and we’re still tearing down houses,” she said. “I don’t think anyone will come in and say they like tearing down trees.” “I like trees,” Commissioner Rick Hurst said. “I don’t like telling people what they can do with their property.” Hurst voted against moving the issue forward for discussion at a future work session. “We need to consider this or risk losing more grand trees,” Commissioner Jim Kihm said. With four commissioners speaking in favor of beginning talks for regulation, the issue of a grand tree ordinance moves forward for discussion at a future work session.
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MARCH 21, 2018
They were dancing under the gazebo BY TOM VAUGHT SUN STAFF WRITER | tvaught@amisun.com
ANNA MARIA – The dance floor was busy during the Oldies Beach Dance at the Sandbar restaurant on Tuesday, March 13. Organizers set out 100 extra chairs because they ran out of them at the Jazz Fest a month earlier, but the chilly weather kept some dancers at home. Both events are fundraisers for the Anna Maria Island Concert Chorus Orchestra(AMICCO). The music came from four talented performers. Bil Bowdish is the leader of Gulf Drive Band, who plays horns and sings. Dana Coen sings, and Ted Young played keyboard. The second half of the concert saw KoKo Ray join them on saxophone, flute and vocals. He also played two saxophones to the delight of the audience. This performance saw a lot more dancers. When the music rocked, the ladies danced, and when the music slowed and became romantic, the couples danced. The Oldies Beach Dance is sponsored by AMICCO, Gulf Drive Band, The Anna Maria Island Sun and the Chiles Group, which donated the pavilion.
The dance floor was packed as the Gulf Drive Band and KoKo Ray played hits from the rock and roll era. When the music slowed, more men joined the women to dance.
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BEACH BEAT
had bought the vehicle from another person, and he could not transfer the registration. He affixed a tag to the vehicle. The deputy confiscated the tag.
124th Street West. The rear window of the complainant’s car was broken. There was no evidence of a break-in.
ANNA MARIA
BRADENTON BEACH
3/9, suspicious incident, 4400 block of
3/5, disorderly intoxication, 300 block of 56th Street. While on routine patrol and looking for a missing 70-year-old man with Alzheimer’s disease, the officer observed two men talking with a driver in a legally parked car. He observed one, the defendant, speak with the man in the car , slurring his words as he talked. A third man was standing with the man at the window of the car. He asked the officer to speak with the defendant, who was upset because he thought it was parked illegally. The officer told the man he was wrong. The officer resumed his search and later, the driver of the car said his daughter was in the car when the incident occurred and she was offended by the defendant’s language. The officer issued a capias request for the state attorney’s office to investigate. 3/10, Baker Act, 4400 block of Gulf Drive.
become a corporal (’93), was promoted to sergeant (’95) and lieutenant (’98). After a 24-year career, life-long friendships and countless stories, David retired as the administrative lieutenant at the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office Corrections Bureau on Jan. 3, 2012. David’s will be sorely missed since his presence brought about so much camaraderie. David was never one to turn away a friend in need – especially if that friend needed to have a beer (or two) at Bortell’s. David enjoyed the company of friends and family more than anything; he became part of the AMI Privateers, his pirate family in 2008. It was there that he earned his nickname “Tattoo” by the unique way in which he placed
tattoos on people. In March 2011, Tattoo met Amy Lynn Trzebiatowski at Swells – one of his favorite hangouts. By the end of the weekend they (both fully-dressed as pirates) had fallen head-over-heels in love on the Privateers’ pirate ship, the Skullywag. In December of 2016, after five years of playing hard-to-get, David braved another cold Minnesota winter to make Amy his wife; a happier couple would be tough to find! David was always welcoming to friends and family with a big hug or pat on the back, and a laugh that made people forget they had anywhere else to go – certainly there was time to sit and enjoy a drink and chat a while. He will be missed tremendously. David was preceded in death
3/10, suspicious incident, 100 block of Crescent Drive. The complainant is renting two houses for his extended family. As he sat outside, a neighbor asked if he could come over and talk, and the complainant said yes. During the conversation, the suspect asked questions about the complainant’s children. After the suspect left, a relative looked up sexual offenders on a website, and it showed one was staying in the neighborhood. A photo of the offender matched the suspect. The deputy wrote a case card for the complainant. 3/12, confiscated property, Gulf Drive and Magnolia Avenue. The deputy stopped the driver for not stopping at a stop sign. He asked the driver for his license, and the driver said it had been suspended for not paying traffic citations. The driver told the deputy he
OBITUARIES David William Ambut David William Ambut, 61, loving husband of Amy Lynn Ambut, passed away peacefully on March 11, 2018, on Anna Maria Island, Fla. David was born in Chicago, Ill., on Dec. 21, 1956. In 1988, he moved his family (including his parents) to Anna Maria Island,, and began his lifetime career with the Manatee County Sheriff’s Department as a corrections officer in training. David went on to
2/13, warrant arrest, Bradenton Beach Marina, 402 Church Ave. The subject called police saying some people were harassing him. An officer arrived but there were no people. He made a records check and found the subject had a warrant for parole violation. He was arrested. 2/13, warrant arrest, 116 Bridge St. The officer made a records check of the suspect and found he had awarrant for parole violation. He was arrested. 2/16, false imprisonment, 100 block of Ninth Street. The male and female got into an argument and the female said she was leaving him. He kept blocking the exits, and she finally got out. He was arrested.
CORTEZ
HOLMES BEACH
RENTAL: Registration deadline passes FROM PAGE 22
ers. Additional information is to be posted inside the rental unit and made available to an officer responding to a complaint. Police Chief Sam Speciale serves as Code Enforcement Officer Gail Garneau’s supervisor. The pair was asked via email if code enforcement would review vacation rental websites in search of nonregistered rentals. “No, many of these sites do not have enough information for code enforcement to justify taking a proactive stance on this issue. However, code
enforcement will aggressively investigate complaints that are generated by information passed on by the clerk’s office and by citizen generated complaints,” their joint response said. The Quality of Life Ordinance states it’s now a violation to advertise rental occupancy greater than what is allowed according to the air conditioning load allowed by the Florida Building Code and stated on the structure’s post-construction Certificate of Occupancy. When creating the rental regulations contained in the Quality of Life Ordinance,
Building Official Steve Gilbert said the air conditioning load equates to approximately two persons per bedroom plus two additional guests. City commissioners chose this route instead of a fixed number or occupancy equation in hopes of avoiding Bert Harris claims. When asked if code enforcement will review rental websites and compare advertised occupancy to allowed occupancy, the response was, “No, not on a routine basis.” The city of Anna Maria contracts a firm to monitor vacation rental advertisements.
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The officer responded to an EMS call for a woman with seizures. The EMT told the officer this was the third call of the night and each time, the woman refused treatment and checked herself out of the hospital. A witness the woman had a history of drug abuse. T the officer issued a Baker Act so the woman could not leave the hospital until she was examined. 3/11, noise complaint, 106 81st St. The perso resposible for a rental received a citation for a loud party. 3/13, fraud, Key Royale Club, 700 Key Royale Drive. A complainant told police two fraudulent checks were drawn on the club’s account. A third attempt to pass a check resulted in the arrest of a suspect. 3/14, battery, The Feast, 5406 Marina Drive. The victim said the defendant slapped her face after she stumbled into her outside the restaurant. The defendant was arrested.
by his parents, Anthony and Josephine Ambut. David is survived by his two children, Jeff Ambut (Amanda), from Bradenton and Chris Ambut, from Hawaii; his wife, Amy and two stepchildren, Anthony (15) and Ava (11), from Woodbury, Minn.; and his brother, Tony Ambut (Kathleen), from Hawaii. Visitation will be 3-4 p.m. with services to follow at 4 p.m., Friday, March 23, 2018 at Brown & Sons Funeral Homes & Crematory 43rd Street Chapel, 604 43rd St. W., Bradenton, FL 34209. Condolences may be made to www. brownandsonsfuneral.com.
Center spring break camp March 26-29 For children kindergarten through fifth-grade looking for something fun to do March 26-29, The Center of Anna Maria Island is opening its doors for a spring break camp. This year ’s camp theme is “Ballparks and Beaches.” Over the course of the four --day camp, students will take a field trip to a Pirates spring training game, have a movie day, compete in relay races, volleyball and beach ball hockey games, and cast net fish at Bayfront Park
in Anna Maria. Camp hours are 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. daily. Campers must bring a packed lunch each day. Campers must be registered either online at www.centerami.org or in person at the Center, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria, by March 22. The cost for all four days is $135. A new camper registration fee may also be applicable. For more information, contact Youth Program Manager Lisa Coba at 941-7781908 or lisa@centerami. org.
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MARCH 21, 2018
Holmes Beach glitch ordinance moves forward An ordinance amending the city’s new formula business ordinance is ready to go for a first public hearing and vote. BY KRISTIN SWAIN SUN STAFF WRITER | kswain@amisun.com
HOLMES BEACH – Commissioners agree to send a glitch ordinance addressing issues in the recently passed formula business ordinance to a first reading and public hearing. The ordinance, found consistent with the city’s comprehensive plan by planning commissioners, passed City Commission inspection during a work session. It will have a first public hearing during the March 27 commission meeting and, if passed at first vote, will have a second public hearing April 10. Commissioner Judy Titsworth
recused herself from the decision because her family owns affected property in the city’s commercial mixed use district. Glitches in the original ordinance the new one addresses include clarification that the ordinance does not address formula businesses in commercial districts other than the MXD downtown district. Formula businesses, within the scope of allowable businesses, are a permissible use in the C-1, C-2 and C-3 districts elsewhere in the city. The glitch ordinance also removes real estate offices from the definition of formula businesses, excluding them from regulation by the formula business regulations in the downtown district. Formula businesses in the MXD district are allowed by special exception only if not already existing. Because of the exclusion of real estate offices, it changes
the amount of existing formula businesses outlined in the original ordinance, increasing the amount of additional formula businesses allowed by special exception from seven to eight. Planning commissioners agreed to not give a recommendation to city commissioners, opting instead to agree that the number agreed upon by city commissioners would be consistent with the comprehensive plan. City commissioners agreed to reduce the number allowed from eight total to seven, allowing the addition of four more formula businesses by special exception. Commissioner Rick Hurst suggested the reduction to allow for the same number of added formula businesses commissioners had previously agreed upon when drafting the formula business ordinance. “It makes sense,” he said.
Tenors return to AMICCO The Anna Maria Island Concert Chorus and Orchestra goes classical when it closes its season with "Return of the Three Tenors" on Sunday, March 25, at 2 p.m. at the Manatee High School Auditorium, 902 33rd St. Ct. W., Bradenton. AMICCO artists Justin John Moniz, Adam Bielamowicz and Daniel Gertes will perform classical favorites La Donna e mobile, from "Rigoletto;" Nessun Dorma, from "Turandot;" Questa e Quella, from "Rigoletto;" Granada; O Sole Mio; selection and new selections.
Smooth sailing A brown pelican lightly lands in the Gulf of Mexico just off Anna Maria Island. ANNA MARIE HAYDEN | SUBMITTED
NET BAN: Fishermen seek vote on net ban FROM PAGE 3
Commercial fishermen in Cortez and throughout the state say they have struggled ever since to continue making a living on the sea.
NAVIGATING CONSTITUTIONAL WATERS
Navigating the process of getting the issue on the ballot is not easy, Coarsey said. Fishing For Freedom had to create a proposal, “Protecting Florida’s Traditional Fishermen and Restoring Sound Science and Best Management Practices to Florida’s Fisheries,” which crosses out every word of the net ban amendment, Article 10, Section 16 of the Florida Constitution, entitled “Limiting marine net fishing.” And then there is the politics. “We were told when we walked in the door that we should have talked to each commissioner first to get put on the agenda,” he said. “We were asked who we are sponsored by. We’re fishermen, we’re not paid politicians.” The public hearing was the final one before the CRC begins meeting this month to decide which proposals to put on the November ballot. Once every 20 years, Florida's Constitution provides that a 37-member commission be created to review the Constitution and make proposed changes for voter consideration. The CRC meets for about a year around the state, identifying and researching issues before recommending changes. At least 60 percent of the state’s voters must approve a Constitutional amendment to make it law.
OIL: Proposal made FROM PAGE 5
SUBMITTED
Tickets are available from the Anna Maria Island Chamber of
Commerce, 5313 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach or call 941-778-1541.
“Interior Secretary Zinke doubled down on confusing lawmakers in Congress when he admitted in the House Natural Resources Committee (on Thursday, March 15) that, 'Florida did not get an exemption,' referencing the agency’s five-year offshore drilling plan and his announcement in January with Gov. Scott saying Florida was ‘off the table’ for oil drilling,” Nelson said in a press release. "More and more, it’s beginning to sound like no deal really exists, and, as feared, it’s all one big political sleight of hand.” Nelson wrote to Zinke this month requesting that Florida be removed from the Interior Department’s proposal, which would begin in 2019. He concludes: “Under Section 18 of the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act, the Interior Department is required to balance oil and gas interests with environmental sensitivities and the policies of affected states, such as Florida’s Coastal Management Program. From everything I have discussed in this letter and all I have heard from my constituents, there is no justification for including Florida in the five-year plan. "Once again, I strongly urge you to truly take Florida “off the table” by removing the Atlantic Coast, the Straits of Florida, and the entire eastern Gulf of Mexico moratorium area from consideration for future lease sales.”
MARCH 21, 2018
ENTERTAINMENT
FAMILY FUN AT THE LIBRARY
The Island Branch Library at 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, has a number of activities for young and old. This week’s listings include: Wednesday, March 21, 2 to 3 p.m., Lifetime Living Academy presents Road Scholar; Thursday, March 22, 9 to 11 a.m., a veteran services professional will be available to help those with problems; 10 a.m. to noon, quilting; 1 to 3 p.m., Meet the Author, Vicki Mickelson; 2 to 3 p.m., “Insects Impact Human Culture with John Stoffolano; Friday, March 23, 10 to 11 a.m., Forty Carrots parenting program; Tuesday, March 27, 10 to 11 a.m., preschool story time; 11 a.m. to noon, STEAM; 2 to 4 p.m., Technical help for electronics.
EXERCISE RUNNERS GET READY
If you want to compete in a race that takes you through the wild beauty of Robinson Preserve, the Manatee County Parks and Natural Resources Department is holding a 5K and 20K run on Friday, March 23, from 5:30 to 9 p.m. The races take runners through coastal Florida surroundings and runners will go through areas that are new to the expanded preserve. After the race, stay for the Fit2Run after party featuring catered food, refreshments, music and adult beverages (with proper I.D.) Non-runners may participate in the after party by purchasing food and drink wristbands the day of the event. All runners will receive a finisher’s medal when they cross the finish line. The race is suitable for walkers and runners of all ages. The fee for the kids' 5K race is $15. For the adult 5K run it is $45, and the 10K fee is $50. For full details or to register, visit https://www.active.com/bradenton-fl/running/distance-running-races/10th-annualrobinson- preserve-5k-10k-2018 Robinson Preserve
ART YOUNG ARTIST AT AGAMI
The Artist’s Guild of Anna Maria Island at 5414 Marina Drive in Holmes Beach, is featuring the artwork of Brianna Donahue, 18, a senior at Lakewood Ranch High School. Donahue attends the AP Portfolio 2-D class of teacher Terry Thompson. Her
awards include first place in the Sarasota Airport Art Contest and also the Silver Key in scholastic art awards. She plans to study art and marine biology at the University of Florida at St. Petersburg. Her art work on display at the Artists' Guild Gallery is a graphite and gel pen drawing entitled "When It Rains, It Pours."
FUN WITH WATERCOLORS
The Anna Maria Island Art League at 5312 Holmes Boulevard, Holmes Beach, will host a Beginning Watercolor Landscapes and Seascapes Workshop, with instructor Lori Heintz on Monday, March 26, from 1 to 4 p.m. This three hour workshop will introduce new techniques to work with landscapes and seascapes. Watercolors and paper will be provided or you may choose to bring your own paints. Heintz has a bachelor of fine arts from Michigan State University and a masters of art from Western Michigan University, and has been an art instructor for K-12 Schoolcraft Schools. The cost is $40 for members and $50 for non members. Pre-register by calling 941778-2099 or visit the Anna Maria Island Art League from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays.
AN INTERESTING ART EVENT
Learn about art resources as Elisa Hansen talks about the Art Research Library of the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art on Monday, April 2, at the Episcopal Church of the Annunciation, 4408 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. Social time begins at 6:30, and at 7 p.m., there will be a brief meeting followed by the program. This Art Research Library is one of the largest in the Southeastern United States, but few local residents have ever heard of it. Hansen, head of library services, will present an introduction to the history, purpose and scope of the art library and its extensive holdings. Hansen has graduate degrees in art history and information and library science. Check the website www.amiartistsguildgallery.com for more information.
NEW TO FLORIDA ARTIST AT IGW
Jeffrey Sanchez’s oil paintings will be featured in a month-long exhibit entitled “Inspirations from my New Life in Florida” this April at Island Gallery West, at 5368 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. As part of the monthly Holmes Beach Art District ArtWalks, a highlight of the exhibit will be a public reception on Friday, April 13, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. It’s an opportunity to enjoy complimentary refreshments, meet the artists and see all the latest local art. Moving here in 2016, Sanchez found fresh inspiration in the beautiful beaches and dramatic weather, especially on Anna
Maria Island. The relaxed vibe carried over into Jeff’s paintings, which evolved with a soft, impressionistic, sometimes nostalgic quality in the new paintings being exhibited at the gallery. Sanchez's exhibit runs through April 30. Regular gallery hours are from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Saturday and Sundays, 10 a.m. through 5 p.m. from November through the end of April. For more information, visit www.islandgallerywest.com, Facebook or call 941-7786648.
HISTORY RELIVING THE PAST
De Soto National Memorial in northwest Bradenton presents a reenactment of five centuries of history on Saturday, March 24, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Period reenactors will share history and demonstrate their crafts, skills and historic weapons. See the genuine Cracker cow horse “Lightning.” Poke around a Civil War encampment or have coffee with GIs from the sunshine state. Meet Spanish conquistadors, and 19th Century artisans. Come meet modern day archaeologist from the local Time Sifters archaeology group. De Soto National Memorial is offering free event parking and free shuttle service. Parking for the event and trolleys are at Martha B. King Middle School located on 75th Street Northwest. Only limited handicap parking will be available in the park for the event. The free trolley will run from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. at regular intervals. For the kids, there will be a special time traveler’s passport where they could earn the De Soto Junior Ranger badge. Kids are invited to come out in their own costumes from their favorite time periods. There is a popular local food establishment on site with food and drinks that can be purchased from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. There will be will pizza and shredded pork tacos For more information, visit the website www.nps.gov/deso, or call 941-792-0458.
FINANCES FINANCIAL ADVICE FOR SENIORS
Senior Adventures, the group that plans projects for senior citizens, will host an official from Bank United, who will provide lunch and financial information on Friday, March 23, at 10 a.m. at Annie Silvers Community Center, 103 23rd St. N., Bradenton Beach. To reserve, call Kaye Bell at 941-5380945
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CLASSES FERMENTED CONDIMENTS CLASS
Jillian Ross, the Ferment Lady, will teach how to make fermented condiments on Thursday, April 12, from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at The Folk School at Florida Maritime Museum at 4415 119th St. W., Cortez. This class we will discuss how to make probiotic rich condiments while boosting flavor and digestibility! There will be several fermented items to enjoy during the discussion; all palates welcome (spice will range from mild to very hot). The class will focus on salsa, hot sauce and a honey garlic sauce. Each attendee will take home their own fermented salsa to enjoy. The class fee is $35 and pre-registration is required. Visit FloridaFolkSchool.org to register.
LEARN ROPE SPLICING
The Folk School at Florida Maritime Museum at 4415 119th St. W., Cortez, hosts a lesson in how to learn the skill of rope splicing on Saturday, April 14, from 10 a.m. to noon. In this splicing workshop, Riley Winans will first teach students a few basic knots and then the eye splice, which has a permanent loop on the end of a rope, generally for attachment purposes. Five feet of rope will be provided for each student. The class fee is $10 and pre-registration is required. Visit FloridaFolkSchool.org to register.
INDIGO DYE CLASS SET
Join the Folk School at Florida Maritime Museum, 4415 119th St. W., Cortez, on Tuesday, April 17 from 10 a.m. to noon for a lesson on how to create different patterns with indigo dye Indigo dye, which comes from the plant, is one of the oldest dyes used for coloring fabrics and is still used today to color blue jeans. Indigo was St. Augustine's first cash crop, and was traditionally known as blue gold. The unique characteristics of indigo dyeing make it easy to create wonderful resist patterns on fabric. In this class we will create different patterns, and students will take home placemats that shows off their work. The class is open to the public, and the class fee is $35 and pre-registration is required. Visit FloridaFolkSchool.org to register.
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Home Sweet Home seeks expertise The volunteer group is trying to increase the number of homes sold for permanent residence or long-term rental. BY TOM VAUGHT SUNSSTAFF WRITER | tvaught@amisun.com
HOLMES BEACH – A group of Island residents is trying to add to the Island’s roster of permanent residents and to offset the ever-growing list of vacation rentals in residential neighborhoods. At a meeting Thursday, Feb. 15, they talked about future plans. Only three people – Connie Kihm, Jack Brennan and Carol Carter – attended the meeting. For more than two years, Home Sweet Home has settled on a plan to locate homes that might be ready to be turned into permanent residences that could not into vacation rentals. Essentially, the plan is to work with the Florida Historic Conservation Fund, and if members find a property for sale that they could purchase, they would only pay taxes on the structure, which would be a lot lower than adding the land’s value. The fund would own the land, which means it could not be converted into vacation rental property. The first step would be to locate money from donors. Over the past year, Anna Maria City Commissioner Carol Carter’s husband, Bob, talked to the group about where to look for donors, how to present their plans to the donors and assure them their money will go for its original purpose. Bob Carter works with non-profits and donors. At their latest meeting, they discussed forming an advisory group of residents. Some areas of expertise they discussed were real estate on the Island, non-profit marketing, financial planning, Island history and architecture. “A donor would want to se a plan,” Kihm said. “They would want to have a timeline and be assured it is sustainable,” Brennan said. Kihm wondered if somebody with expertise in foreclosures could step forward. For more information, log onto www.ourannamaria.com
It’s time to sign up for next year Kindergarten Roundup signs up kids now to avoid last-minute setbacks at the start of the school year. BY TOM VAUGHT SUN STAFF WRITER | tvaught@amisun.com
HOLMES BEACH – Parents of children who will be old enough to enter kindergarten next school year should attend Kindergarten Roundup on Thursday, March 21, from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Parents need to bring a number of items when enrolling a child for the first time. • An original certified birth certificate or other proof of date of birth; • A Florida certificate of immunization; • A physical examination certificate; • Legal guardianship papers, if applicable; • Your child’s Social Security card; • Your child’s recent report card/transcripts/withdrawal forms, if applicable; • Proof of residency, e.g., current electric or water bill showing the name and address of the enrolling parent or guardian, a current lease agreement, an official letter from a company providing housing, a notarized statement from the owner of the home where they are staying. For more information, call Anna Maria Elementary School at 708-5525.
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Progress slows on dog park renovation After reaching a second consensus on priority items for the Holmes Beach Dog Park renovation, parks and beautification members still aren’t ready to present plans to city commissioners. BY KRISTIN SWAIN SUN STAFF WRITER | kswain@amisun.com
HOLMES BEACH – It’s been months in the making, but users still aren’t much closer to seeing improvements manifest at the city’s dog park. Members of the Parks and Beautification Committee held a special meeting to discuss priority projects for the dog park renovation with the public. While decisions were confirmed on fencing, entrances and plantings, other ideas, including a slight enlargement of the park, were dismissed in favor of allowing city commissioners to make the final determination. Committee members agreed to keep the fence separating the small
and large dog parks where pets and pet parents can see through it. They also confirmed votes to change out the exterior fencing to vinyl-coated chain link, add two entries with pavers to each park with push button locking mechanisms and place pavers underneath benches to discourage digging. They changed a vote from the previous month, favoring filtered water bottle fillers and raised bowl stands for dogs over an earlier decision to insert a water fountain in each side of the park. Committee member Dennis Groh presented an updated landscaping plan with short cocoplum trees around the perimeter of the park and the addition of trees in the large dog park to allow more shade. Dog park user Don Anthony suggested planting the trees near the fence line to allow dogs to run freely. With the addition of the trees, committee members voted out an earlier decision to add sun shades to the park. Instead, they agreed to reconsider the sun shades if it’s found more shade is needed. No firm decision was made concerning ground
KRISTIN SWAIN | SUN
Parks and Beautification Committee members hope to add more benches with shade to the city’s dog park. cover for the park. Dog park users spoke out against planting the cocoplum trees along the fencing facing Flotilla Drive, citing a safety concern by not being able to see in or out of the park clearly. Committee members over-
ruled the dog park users present during the meeting with Groh stating the plantings are needed to help block sound and soften the look for residential neighbors. City Engineer Lynn Burnett was on-hand to discuss drainage for the park. Before she can create a plan to help lessen water retention, she said a firm master design plan is needed to allow for any additional storm water runoff that may be created. One item dog park users and committee members agreed on is the reduction of sign pollution in the park. With new, large signs warning of the rules of the park recently installed, users asked if some signs could be removed, particularly from the interior of wooden shelters where the signs block airflow. Committee members agreed to find out what signs were legally required for dog park operation and see if some others could be removed. Committee members agreed to move forward with the creation of a master plan for the park with the hope of presenting to city commissioners for approval in May.
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REAL ESTATE
MARCH 21, 2018
Sustaining sustainable D
uring the last decade, there have been impressive advances in the ways homes are constructed, especially as it applies to areas of technology and building science. Incorporated into these new sciences are green building standards and sustainable practices, and there are some very good reasons why this is beneficial, not only to the environment, but also the homeowners. The Florida Green Building Coalition (FGBC) is a nonprofit Florida corporation dedicated to improving building construction and promoting sustainability through education. It works with builders, developers, local governments and consumers through certification programs and home inspections. FHBC says it has created green building standards that reach beyond the minimum requirements. Certifying builders who have applied the industry’s best practices for sustainable,
Castles in the Sand LOUISE BOLGER green construction in Florida. Some of the areas that FGBC emphasizes are energy performance, water conservation, site conditions, healthier home, materials and disaster mitigation. But a sustainable home is more than just a certification. There are benefits to everyone who participates in the home building process. Benefits to the homeowner include profitability of resale, affordability of operation and maintenance, enhancing the indoor air quality of the home, increasing the durability of the home and providing for greater access to mortgage
money. Benefits to the home builder include valuable gains in promotion and advertising, setting your home apart from the competition, favorable opinions by homebuyers about green home features, more customer referrals, enhanced marketing abilities and fewer builder call backs and repairs. Benefits to the community and to the environment as a whole include conserving water resources; managing waste and stormwater; providing and maintaining affordable housing and maintaining an affordable and reliable energy source. These green building standards and sustainable practices are becoming more and more of a priority for builders and homeowners. New home communities proudly advertise and promote their energy savings appliances, doors and windows and bathroom fixtures to potential
buyers who have now come to expect this type of construction as the standard. A new community being built about 30 minutes northeast of Fort Myers is designed to rely 100 percent on the power of the sun to power the homes. Babcock Ranch is more than just a community. It is an entire town with a planned 50,000 residents. Calling itself the first solarpowered town in the country, its goal is to produce more power than it consumes thanks to a cadre of 323,000 solar panels. In addition to producing its own electricity, the town is wired to cut down on power use. Babcock Ranch’s 19,500 residential lots are situated around a town center with all of the community amenities you would need. There is a school, farm-to-table restaurants, a community SEE BOLGER, PAGE 41
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Mooring ordinance being replaced A lawsuit in the Miami area is the impetus for a new mooring ordinance in Bradenton Beach that will assist the police department’s enforcement efforts. BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
BRADENTON BEACH – City commissioners have adopted on first reading an amended marine anchorage and mooring ordinance that will provide the police department with better means to deal with derelict and abandoned vessels. To be read on second reading on April 5, Ordinance 18-498 also provides additional clarity on whether the city or the county has the ability or responsibility to remove sunken or derelict vessels near the historic Bridge Street Pier. On March 15, City Attorney Ricinda Perry presented the new ordinance that will repeal and replace the existing ordinance amended last year. Perry referenced a special state act initiated several years ago that when combined with the mooring ordinance adopted in 2009 provides the city with
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
The Bradenton Beach Police Department will soon have a new ordinance that will better assist the efforts to address abandoned and derelict vessels in and around the historic Bridge Street Pier. an area of legal jurisdiction that can be enforced 1500 feet from the shore, from the Cortez Bridge to Eight Street South. “There is a vessel out in the waters that the city and Manatee County are discussing as to who’s going to remove that vessel,” Perry said. Perry said the county believes the city is required to remove the vessel, but the county previously objected to the state act that gave the additional jurisdiction to the city. Perry said the county objected to the state act and agreed to the city only having extraterritorial policing
powers in those waters. This means the city’s marine officers can patrol those waters without having sole jurisdiction. In Perry’s opinion, this means the county should remove the vessel in question. Perry said the real impetus for the new ordinance was a lawsuit in the Miami area in which attorneys successfully challenged the municipality’s rights to remove derelict or abandoned boats. The attorneys claimed state law wasn’t being followed regarding due process and the right to appeal the removals. “They had to go in and modify the way
they regulate these waterways. Consequentially, it resulted in a big adjustment all around state and it’s been recommended by the lieutenant (John Cosby) that we have the proper procedures in place to remove these vessels that are causing us problems. Designating whether these vessels are derelict or abandoned is within the prevue of the police department, but what I needed to do was create an appeal procedure,” Perry said. Perry said the appeal process removes code enforcement and gives the police department its own stand-alone process. The police department’s enforcement actions may include citations, summons, notice to appear in county court or arrest. “The city may prosecute a violation of this division in any manner allowed by law, specifically including, but not limited to, prosecution for a municipal ordinance violation before a special master and an action for mandatory injunctive relief ordering that a vessel be moved from a particular location,” the ordinance says. It includes new language stating an individual has 21 days to request a special
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MARCH 21, 2018
Resident submits uplifting variance request Commissioners have the final say on variance requests. BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
BRADENTON BEACH – Wanda Kandel is requesting a setback variance for an exterior lift that would allow her sister, Barbara Mayer, a former March of Dimes poster child, to move in with her. Kandel is now a full-time resident on the top floor of a three-unit condominium home at 1105 Gulf Dr. S. She owns two of the structure’s three housing units and her second-floor unit is used as a rental. The other second floor unit also is used as a rental. Kandel presented her variance request to special master Lisa Gonzalez Moore on March 12. She’s now awaiting a preliminary ruling that will be subject to final approval or denial by the City Commission. Kandel needs a variance to the city’s land development code to install a vertical chair lift that would extend 5 and ½ feet into the required 10-foot side yard setback to
WANDA KANDEL | SUBMITTED
Barbara Mayer was poster child for the March of Dimes in 1953. She now hopes to join her sister as a permanent Bradenton Beach resident. Third-floor resident Wanda Kandel wants to add an exterior lift near the existing stairwell. the north. A memo provided by City Planner Alan Garrett said the proposed lift would not be closer to the north property line than the existing uncovered exterior stairwell that legally encroaches the setback. “I have a sister who had polio as a child. She was a March of Dimes poster child when she was three,” Kandel told Moore.
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
Mayer appeared in the March of Dimes poster in 1953. “She’s 65 now and having a lot of difficulty getting around and is frequently needing a wheelchair. She is currently living part-time with my brother in Georgia while we try to find a better living arrangement for her, and I would like to be the one to provide that,” Kandel said, noting that she and her sister both had
careers as registered nurses. “We’ve always been best friends, and she would like to come live me, but she can’t get upstairs and a stair chair going up the stairs was not going to be a feasible alternative. We’d have to do two separate chairs, and she’d have to get out halfway up, walk to the next chair and go back up, and it wouldn’t help with the wheelchair.”
After viewing photos of the property, Moore asked Kandel if she had any other plans to renovate the property. She said she did not, other than installing two new toilets. “It is pretty much completely wheelchair accessible once you get up to the third floor, with a drive-in shower and everything,” Kandel said. Nobody expressed opposition during the 17-minute hearing, but attending Mayor John Chappie reminded Moore that variances run with the land in perpetuity. He asked her to consider adding a stipulation that would apply to the property’s next owner. “She’s a permanent resident, and we’re looking for permanent residents out here on the Island. It is an open lift, it’s not a closed-in elevator. You just don’t know what the next person that would own the property would say. It’s nothing against the applicant because we want them to be in our neighborhood,” Chappie said. “I think it’s a pretty straight forward question,” Gonzalez said, noting that she would issue her preliminary ruling within 15 days.
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Rummage sale Charlyne Demidovich shows off necklaces for sale at St. Bernard Catholic Church’s final rummage sale of the season. There were good crowds Friday and Saturday. Proceeds from the sales go toward the church’s charitable endeavors.
TOM VAUGHT | SUN
Colorful carvings Oat Avizzano, from North Port, had colorful tropical carvings at the arts and crafts festival last weekend to benefit Wildlife Rescue, of Bradenton Beach. Avizzano said he carves them, and his wife paints them. TOM VAUGHT | SUN
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THE SUN
MARCH 21, 2018
Cortez celebrates St. Patrick’s Day Ted Adams, longtime volunteer for the Cortez Cultural Center and the Florida Maritime Museum, was honored on Saturday during the St. Patrick’s Day corned beef and cabbage dinner at the Cortez Cultural Center. Cortezians enjoyed a delicious corned beef and cabbage dinner on St. Patrick’s Day Saturday at the Cortez Cultural Center.
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Fish fry John and Cindy Swager cook up fish for the fish fry at the Annie Silver Community Center in Bradenton Beach last Friday, which drew a full house.
“We thank your company, Coastal Cottages, for a
warm and welcoming experience at our rental during the month of February. You have an excellent team of caring and kind people.”
CINDY LANE | SUN
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JOHN CHAPPIE | SUBMITTED
'Ohio Bob' remembered Friends of “Ohio Bob” McClannan gathered at the Pines Trailer Park Saturday for a Florida memorial in honor of the former Pines resident who was killed when struck by a car while mowing his lawn in Ohio last summer. Songs were sung, kind words were spoken and fond memories were shared. “It was a very emotional event,” seasonal resident Andre Archambault said.
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Wildlife Inc. founder Ed Straight talks about his organization with people attending a weekend art festival at Holmes Beach city field. Part of the proceeds from the festival goes to Wildlife Inc. to help the group save and protect local wildlife. The annual event featured original artwork including wood works, paintings, jewelry and unique décor items.
BOLGER: Sustaining sustainable FROM PAGE 36
garden, shared bikes and electric cars and self-driving electric shuttles. The futuristic sustainable town of tomorrow is surprisingly affordable. Three-bedroom, 1,400-square foot homes start at a very affordable $186,000. Larger homes with more upscale amenities and water views of one of the lakes start in the low $500,000 range. All of the homes are sustainably built and certified by the Florida Green Building Coalition. However, beach lovers who wouldn’t think about living anywhere away from
the Gulf waters could find the location of Babcock Ranch a little off-putting. Much of the land where the community is being built was swamp and with swamps come gators, however, it’s not that different from many parts of Florida that have been successfully developed under similar circumstances. The Florida Green Building Coalition and Babcock Ranch are undeniably finally putting to use the abundance of sunshine in the Sunshine State. Even if a solar-powered town is not exactly what you’re looking for, you have to admire the innovation and forwardthinking developers.
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SPORTS
MARCH 21, 2018
Bins Be Clean claims two championships BY MONICA SIMPSON SPECIAL TO THE SUN
Another winter season of adult co-ed sports ended last week with excitement on the volleyball court and football field. In volleyball, the underdog prevailed. The finals in football finished just as the regular season ended: #1 and #2 competitive and close. After beating Team Signarama, Bins Be Clean took to the court ready to deflate the hopes of the #1 ranked Slim’s Place to take the volleyball championship. League veterans Laura Alderson, Michelle Laade and Dave Norris solidly finished the regular season with teammates David Greene and Rich and Lynn Puskas with a 7-1 record. Bins Be Clean sealed the deal in part with solid serving by Nate Talucci. The husband and wife duo of Sean and Colleen McCarthy, along with John Coleman, Rather Welch and Susie Garcia made for a determined team. With rally scoring underway, Slim’s Place took the early lead in the first game in the championship match. A nice get by Norris and missed cues from Garcia and C. McCarthy were met with scoring moves by Talucci and Coleman to tie the game 5-5. Several serves later, Beach Bums gained the lead and quickly started pulling away. The nine-point point streak led by the serving of Talucci put up an 11-19 score, with a diving dig by S. McCarthy. Welch’s great serves and R. Puskas’ service error put Bins Be Gone within two points of taking the first game. C. McCarthy’s serve led to the game winning point closing the first of two with the score 17-25. The second game started much like the first with Slim’s Place scoring quickly. Once the score was tied up at 9-9, Bins Be Clean captured the lead and maintained it to the end. Despite the efforts of Slim’s Place, the skillful serves, sets and spikes were not enough to take the match to game three. Bins Be Clean captured the big win with the final score 19-25 In the final flag football game, the #1 and #2 teams went head-to-head for
MONICA SIMPSON | SUN
Adult co-ed volleyball champs Bins Be Clean defeated the top ranked team to take the title. Left to right: Colleen McCarthy, Sean McCarthy, Susie Garcia, John Coleman, Rather Welch and Nate Talucci. the championship. The close low scoring game showed the strength of both teams that lead to the coin toss finish at the end of the regular season. Bins Be Clean took the early lead in the third game last Thursday night. The touchdown by KB Belton could not be followed up with the point after leaving the score 6-0. Quarterback and team captain Don Purvis took the football down the field for Beach House Real Estate’s first score. With a tied score, both teams battled it out on the gridiron, making critical stops, preventing scoring and keeping the spectators on the edge of their seats. With a nice tight spiral from Ray Gardner, captain and QB for Bins Be Clean, Chad Woods found the ball in one hand bringing it down in the end zone for six points. The extra point was captured with a high reaching catch by Holly Belton over the defender. As the seconds of the game clock ticked down, the Bins Be Clean defense tried to stop the Beach House Real Es-
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Finishing on top, Bins Be Clean won the big game Thursday night to finish the winter adult-co ed flag football season as champions. Left to right: Chad Woods, KB Belton, Holly Belton, Joey Carder, Chris Culhane, Monica Simpson and Ray Gardner. Adam Mott is not pictured.
tate offense from marching down the field into scoring position. Great play calling and execution by Beach House RE put the Purvis team on the Bins Be Clean 15-yard line. The quick catch by Leah Purvis lead to a big flag pull by the Bins Be Clean defender. D. Purvis found Andrew Terman all alone in the end zone for a touchdown taking the score to 13-12. Going for a one-point conversion to tie the championship game, the Beach House Real Estate receiver bobbled the ball and could not complete the pass giving Bins Be Clean the win with only a few seconds left in the game. The Bins Be Clean championship win ended another season of adult flag football at the Island’s community center, where friends and family come together.
SUN SCOREBOARD TUESDAY, MARCH 13 ADULT CO-ED VOLLEYBALL – SEMI-FINAL Bins Be Clean #3 Signarama
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ADULT CO-ED VOLLEYBALL – CHAMPIONSHIP #1 Slim’s Place #2 Bins Be Clean
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WEDNESDAY, MARCH 14 YOUTH BASKETBALL
19 25
Bins Be Clean Beach Bums
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Blue Lagoon Slims Place
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THURSDAY, MARCH 15 ADULT CO-ED FLAG FOOTBALL SEMI-FINALS #1 Bins Be Clean #4 Moss Builders
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#2 Beach House Real Estate #3 Beach Bums
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ADULT CO-ED FLAG FOOTBALL – CHAMPIONSHIP GAME #1 Bins Be Clean #2 Beach House Real Estate
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TOUR: A success for The Center FROM PAGE 13
children can escape but still view their children playing with their grandparents in the pool. Right across the street from the Center is the Magnolia Home, the only house on the tour that attendees could purchase and make their own. For a mere $1.49 million, the newly built elevated home with covered living space around the pool and hot tub and just under 2,000 square-feet of indoor living space. "If I could take anything out of these houses, I'd take the bedrooms from this one," one woman commented. Each of the four bedrooms features its own ensuite bathroom with unique wooden chandeliers throughout. All of the bathrooms feature a distinctive distressed wood or brick dĂŠcor. The final stop on this year's tour was the newly renovated home of Art and Wooley Dutton. The single-story home features three bedrooms, four bathrooms, an open floor plan with high ceilings, a separate art studio and a secret passage to the master bedroom. "It's just art," volunteer Sandee Pruett said of the home. At the Center, attendees could sample food from the Travelling Gourmet and Italian Culinary
KRISTIN SWAIN | SUN
The amoeba-shaped pool is at the 420 Magnolia Ave. investment home belonging to Mike Ross. Tours or check out items for sale at the Center Bazaar and Tropical Treasures Boutique. More than a dozen local artists contributed to the Tropical Treasures Boutique, sponsored by Duncan Real Estate, including Susan Anderson, Jan Bryant, Judy Christensen, Erin Hughey, Joyce Hunt, Monique Marlow, Joan Pettigrew and Sandee Pruett. Local artisans and merchants joined the Boutique in the Bazaar, offering everything from handmade soaps to unique jewelry and
MARK YOUR CALENDAR From Page 7
10:30 to noon, $55 for four lecture series or $15 per lecture. Reserve to www.rclla.org or 941-309-5111. Intermediate bridge session, The Paradise 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@ theparadisecenter.org or 941-383-6493. Sunset drum circle, Manatee Public Beach, 4000 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, 5 to 8 p.m. Bingo, The Center of Anna Maria Island, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria, 6 to 8 p.m., $10 for 10 cards. 10th Annual Robinson Preserve Twilight 5k and 10k Race, 840 99th St. NW, Bradenton, 6:30 p.m. Registration required at www.active.com/bradenton-fl/running/distance-runningraces/10th-annual-robinson-preserve-5k-10k-2018.
SATURDAY MARCH 24
Valentine House open, Robinson Preserve, 1704 99th St. N.W., Bradenton, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Cast Net Mending, The Folk School at Florida Maritime Museum, 4415 119th St. W., Cortez, 8:30 a.m., $40. Naturalist led wagon tour, Robinson Preserve, 1704 99th St. N.W., Bradenton, 9 a.m. Healing meditation, Anna Maria Island Art League, 5312 Holmes Blvd., Holmes Beach, 11 a.m. ACBL open pairs duplicate bridge, The Paradise Center, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, second floor, 1 p.m., $11 per game with coffee and snacks provided. Reserve to 941-
dĂŠcor items for sale. Nearby was this year's quilt raffle, created by the Eyeland Needlers and sponsored by Green Real Estate. The winner of the quilt, titled "See You By The Sea," was Chris Smargasso. Organizer and board member Karen Harllee said she was pleased with how the Bazaar and Boutique went this year and hopes for an even better turnout next year. "We want to make it bigger and better next year," she said.
216-9600 or sjbrill@aol.com. Music on the Porch, Florida Maritime Museum, 4415 119th St. W., Cortez, 2 p.m.
SUNDAY MARCH 25
Beach Market, Coquina Beach, 2650 Gulf Drive S., Bradenton Beach, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. For information call 941-518-4431.
MONDAY MARCH 26
Roser-Robics chair-based exercise class, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, 9:30 a.m. The Art of Living Well, The Paradise Center, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, second floor, 10 a.m., $15 per class or $50 for four sessions. Reserve to maryannbrady@ theparadisecenter.org or 941-383-6493. Social bridge games, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, noon.
TUESDAY MARCH 27
Kayaking for first timers, Robinson Preserve, 1704 99th St. N.W., Bradenton, 9 a.m. Reserve to 941-742-5757 ext. 7. Preschool storytime, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m. STEAM, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 11 a.m. Mahjong for beginners, The Paradise Center, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, 2nd Floor, Longboat Key, 12:30 to 2:30 p.m., $10, snacks are provided.
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Across 1 Ballet divisions 5 Crank (up) 8 Hunchbacked lab assistant 12 Un-fizzy 13 PGA Tour golf course near Miami 15 Fish in salade niçoise 16 Inc. and LLC? 19 "No fighting!" 20 Self-worth 21 Gym unit 22 Beaming and shining? 25 Jibe grammatically 28 Come-__: enticements 29 Covent Garden highlight 30 Wolfish look 31 Pal of Pooh 32 Green shampoo 33 Ranking org. for court players 34 Google operating system 36 "Never __ Me Go": Kazuo Ishiguro novel 38 Blue Cross rival 40 Dr. with Grammys 41 Managed __ 42 Donkey sound 43 Tie the knot 44 Socialite Perle 45 "Got it!" and "Roger that!"? 48 Hassle 49 Tic-tac-toe win 50 "Green Eggs and Ham" opening 53 "What are you in for?" and "I was framed"? 57 Like the T206 Honus Wagner baseball card 58 Eats by candlelight
59 Not in favor of 60 Summit 61 Affirmative action 62 Drain slowly Down 1 Langley, e.g.: Abbr. 2 Driver or putter 3 Subdue with a charge 4 Cocktail made with brandy and crème de menthe 5 Timber often used for guitar fretboards 6 Triage locales, briefly 7 "La Bamba" singer Ritchie 8 Addams family cousin 9 Military rebels 10 Ready for the worst 11 Speaks with a scratchy voice 13 Geometric art style 14 __ Mason: asset management giant 17 Aswan Dam site 18 In the direction of 23 Properly arranged 24 Underground find 25 Styled after, on a menu
Answers to 03-14-18 Crossword Puzzle.
26 Be judged unfairly 27 Performer's array 31 Genetic code transmitter 32 Often fruity dessert 34 Slangy "Let's move on ... " 35 Like priests 37 What some caddies carry 39 The Northwest's Sea-__ Airport 41 Private jet choices 43 "Any volunteers?" 44 Cultural pic that may go viral 45 Oscar-winning director Frank 46 Frog habitat 47 Pre-coll. exams 51 Spots to conceal 52 Dole (out) 54 Kinsey research focus 55 Producer of some Talking Heads albums 56 Sample
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MARCH 21, 2018
CLASSIFIED
ANNOUNCEMENTS
CARPET CLEANING
BEACH YOGA ON Saturdays & Sundays at 8:30am at the end of Pine Ave by the Sandbar Restaurant by donation. www. thriveyogafit.com
QUALITY COUNTS. CARPET cleaning. Upholstery cleaning. Tile & grout cleaning. Island's favorite cleaner. Manatee Chamber Member. Great price/free estimates. Call 941-7561082
THE BEST VOLUNTEER position on the island. The AMI Historical Museum needs docents and bread makers. Call Lynn at 813758-3234 or lbrennan47@ gmail.com
CLEANING SERVICE TOTAL HOME SERVICE CLEANING : Residential, Commercial & Rentals. Professional and Reliable. Call 941-756-4570
ROSER FOOD BANK needs donations of cash and non-perishable food. Donations boxes are located at the Church, Moose Club, and Walgreen’s.
THOMPSON CLEANING SERVICE CommercialResidential-Marine. Island Based Company. Seasonal Deep Cleaning-Weekly-Occasional. Call for Free Estimate. 317-908-9483
BABY SITTER RED CROSS CERTIFIED baby sitter. Honor student. Call or text Isabel 941-5457995
AUTHORITY ONE SERVICES. Residential/Commercial/Vacation Rentals & Construction Cleaning. Also Power Washing, Windows, Paver Sealing & Roof Cleaning. Ask about your Senior Citizens Discount Call 941-251-5948 or 941565-3931
BOATS: SALES & RENTALS BOATS ARE SELLING Very Well. I Also Buy Boats. “Business On A Hand Shake”. Island Boat Sales. Dave/ Owner 941-228-3489 2005 PATHFINDER 24' with trailer, 250 HP Yamaha 4 Stroke, custom aluminum tower with dual controls, Garmin 94V fish finder/ GPS, Power Pole, Jack Plate, Motorguide trolling motor, call Greg 941-7059969
BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES BE A PART of a Great Co-op on Pine Ave, Anna Maria. Pineapple Junktion. Great space available. email ideas and size requirements to pineapplejunktion@icloud.com SNIPS HAIR SALON booth space available for rent. Bring your clients, Keep your money! Call Marsha for availability 941-7781968 (leave message). "Where locals have gone for 30 years."
Call us today! 941-778-3986
COMMERCIAL SALES
ANNA MARIA ISLAND 4-sale Resorts Bradenton Bch *5 units $1,048,800 *13 units $4,999,000 *9300 Sq. Ft. Ware-house, Machine Shop heavy duty elect or Car Storage, So Many Possibilities. Near SRQ Airport $595,000 Island Real Estate Ask Alan Galletto 941-232-2216
COMPUTER SERVICES EMPIRE COMPUTER SERVICE Computer problems fixed in your home or office. The fastest friendliest service around. Serving the Island since 2004. Call 941-739-6424
EMPLOYMENT
BAR BACK NEEDED 3 or 4 nights per week. Apply at Bortell's 10002 Gulf Dr, Anna Maria After 1pm. FULL TIME or PART TIME. Cook for PM shift. Experience preferred. Small family Sports Pub. Solo's Pizza. Call 941-962-4491
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PART-TIME POSITION Green Turtle Shell & Gift Shop. Looking for a personable, energetic person with excellent Customer Service skills. Position includes cash register usage, stocking merchandise and light cleaning. Call manager 813-409-7540 TWO SCOOPS – Anna Maria Island’s Favorite Ice-Cream... is now hiring part-time associates. Varied shifts available must be able to work nights and weekends. A great place to work and have a little fun…looking for a few friendly people. Food prep. or server experience preferred. Great pay! Apply today…Two Scoops 101 S. Bay Blvd. Unit A-2, Anna Maria TWO SIDES OF NATURE – Anna Maria Island’s Largest Little Beach Shoppes... is now hiring part-time associates. Varied shifts available must be able to work nights and weekends. Retail Experience Preferred. Apply today Two Sides of Nature 101 S. Bay Blvd. Unit A-1, Anna Maria.
FISHING CHARTERS CAPT. MAC GREGORY Fishing Charters. Full Day, Half Day, Night, Inshore & Near Shore. 941-809-5783 U.S.C.G. Certified/Insured
GARAGE, MOVING, RUMMAGE & YARD SALES ROSER THRIFT SHOP Open 9:30am-2pm, Tuesday, Thursday & Friday. 10am1pm Saturday Donations preferred 9am-11am Wednesdays. 511 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Phone 941-779-2733 MISSION GARAGE SALE Saturday, March 24 8am1pm Palma Sola Presbyterian Church 6510 3rd Ave. West Furniture, children's items, and more GARAGE SALE. Two Families Downsizing, goodies for young and old. Saturday March 25. 8:30am3:30pm 508 65th St, Holmes Beach. HUGE YARD SALE Friday, March 23 Patio furniture, bar stools, flat screen TVs, ceiling fan, linens, dishes, home decor, tools, 8x10 rug. 2313 Avenue B in Bradenton Beach. 8am-until
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LEGAL NOTICE
SITE CLEAN-UP to trash outs we can handle it all. Call us for your dumpsters/ trash needs today 941-7538772
AMI VACANT HOME CHECK weekly visits to keep your vacant Island home secure! Report of each visit. I check all systems & building security. Founded in 2012. 20+ year Island resident 941-685-8999 amivacanthomecheck@ aol.com
NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE: NORMS TOWING gives Notice of Foreclosure of Lien and intent to sell these vehicles on 04/11/2018, 09:00 am at 1855 63RD AVENUE 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.
HOME IMPROVEMENTS
TILE! TILE! TILE! All variations of tile supplied and installed. Quality workmanship. Prompt, reliable, many Island references. Free estimates. Neil 941-726-3077 RENOVATION SPECALIST ALL carpentry repairs, Wash Family Construction, locally owned and operated CBC 1258250 Call 941-7250073. KERN CONSTRUCTION NEW Homes & Remodel. Design/Build. Since 1968. License # CRC1327296. Call Jerry Kern 941-7781115 www.kernconstructioninc.com WALY PRECISION PAINTING: painting, drywall, stucco, and remodeling, commercial/residential, licensed & insured. Call 941-448-1928 or 941-4656324 www.WalyPrecisionPainting.us DECKOUT MASTER CARPENTER Everything Patio & Dock Decking Work Repair, Replace, Maintenance Work, Cleaning, Treatments, New Decks. Also Handyman/Painting work to home or office. Call RICHARD Bespoke Service 941-448-3571 Island Resident. HOME IMPROVEMENT Michigan General Contractor 30+ yrs. experience. Large or small projects. Budget minded knowledgeable tradesman will complete your project start to finish: On Time/On Budget. Call Mike 616-204-8822. FENCING, CAN'T GET ANYBODY? Wood, Vinyl. New or Repair. Call Richard. Free Estimates. 941-448-3571 Bespoke Services.
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BATH ROOM REMODELING. Anna Maria Home Accents. 25 years experience. Call 786-318-8585
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
LOST & FOUND FITBIT LOST THURSDAY February 22 on Bradenton Beach near Sandpiper heading south. Wristband is Plum color. Call 440901-8586. WATCH TURNED IN to the police department which was found on the beach. Turned in on Jan. 7th. Call Detective Brian Hall 941708-5800 ext 243. LOST 18" DIAMOND CHAIN NECKLACE with my grand mother's diamond in center – REWARD Call 267454-0725 FOUND WEDDING RING October 2 in Holmes Beach. To Rayburn with love Kathy. Call 941-9008226 LOST ENGAGEMENT RING. Solitaire white gold. Lost on 10/22/2017. Call 770712-8819
1G6KD52Y8TU242242 1996 CADILLAC 1GNDS13S332408796 2003 CHEVROLET 1HFSC1807TA003279 1996 HONDA 1J4GK58K52W232762 2002 JEEP 1ZVFT82H475240973 2007 FORD 2G4WS52M7X1632165 1999 BUICK 2MEFM74W0WX694610 1998 MERCURY 2MEFM75WX2X657833 2002 MERCURY 3GNFK16R5XG222014 1999 CHEVROLET 3GYFNCE3XDS650205 2013 CADILLAC 4T1BF18B1WU279085 1998 TOYOTA 5FNYF3H91FB017227 2015 HONDA JKAEXMJ198DA06607 2008 KAWASAKI JS1GR7JA252100384 2005 SUZUKI L9NTEACU5C1000949 2012 TAOI LOST GOLD BRACELET with toggle clasp & charm with 50th anniversary engraved. Sentimental value. Lost in vicinity of Palm Ave. in Anna Maria. Call 407-8730078. LOST MY GRANDMOTHER'S gold wedding band (initials inside and date) at Coquina Beach area. Reward. Call 407-579-1621
MOVING & STORAGE MARTIN’S MOVING YOUR Island movers! Offering dependable, competitive rates. No hidden costs. 941-809-5777. TWO MEN and a TRUCK. Movers who care. Local and Long distance. www. twomen.com Call 941-3591904. We sell boxes!
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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 Winegarden 941-794-0455 PROFESSIONAL PAINTING SERVICES. Prompt & Reliable. Meticulous, Thorough, Quality Workmanship. Interior/Exterior. Also minor repairs & carpentry. Free written detailed estimates. Bill Witaszek 941-307-9315 BAYSIDE COMMERCIAL PAINTING. David Padyani Call 941-565-9446 or Larry Zimmer 941-2248123 Licensed & Insured DONALD PERKINS PAINTING LLC fully insured. 30 years experience. Many Island references. Call 941-7057096
POOL SERVICES FOUR SEASONS POOL SERVICE. AMI & West Bradenton. Certified Pool Operator. Residential/commercial. Chemical Service Licensed & Insured. Call Dennis Clark 941-737-5657 COLE'S TROPICAL POOL SERVICE Call Cole Bowers for all your pool maintenance needs! Affordable and Dependable!! 941-7131893
PRINTING 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
Call us today! 941-778-3986
PROFESSIONAL PRESSURE & WINDOW WASHING
AUTHORITY ONE CLEANING : Residential, Commercial, Construction and Vacation Rentals . Also available Power Washing, Roof Cleaning and Windows. Call 941-251-5948
REAL ESTATE HOMES & CONDOS FOR SALE
FROM THE LOW $300’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 $209/ month. Models open daily. Contact us 941254-3330 www.MirabellaFlorida.com INCREDIBLE NEW CONSTRUCTION Home on Pine Ave! Prime location to shops, restaurants, bay and beach! $1,995,000 Call Charles Buky Coldwell Banker 941-228-6086 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 LAST CHANCE! OWN Canal front home for less than $300K . Tropical Harbor, Ellenton. Call Robin Gulf Bay Realty 941-713-4515
AFFORDABLE WINTER RETREAT - $304,900 Furnished 2BR/1.5BA Condo. Just a short walk to Gulf, restaurants, bus stop, and AMI Elementary. No condo fee. Rental investment. Covered parking for 4 cars. Contact Jim Adamson, 941-920-0307, or Chrisi Adamson, 941-806-9562 Remax Alliance.
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BRADENTON: SAN REMO SHORES 2BR/2BA/1CG. 4011 Plumosa Terrace (99th St W). 2 miles to Anna Maria Island. Sailboat Water, Salt Water Canal. Park Boat in Your Yard. $369,900. Call JoAnne with A Paradise Realty 941-8092488 LOVELY 2BR/2BA CONDO in rarely available Beachview of Manatee! Covered tandem parking for 2 cars. 2 screened lanais. Beautifully furnished and sold turnkey. Short walk to the beach, across from Publix, restaurants, shopping and trolley stops. Prime rental investment, full time or winter residence. 2nd floor. Karen Parsons, Good Life Realty. Owner/Realtor $398,500 407-233-7059
REAL ESTATE: OPEN HOUSE BRADENTON: BAY HOLLOW Sunday March 25. 1-4pm 8732 54th Ave W. WATERFRONT PROPERTY with individual boat docks, direct Gulf access from a private Marina, overlooking Tidy Island. 2BR/2BA second floor, cathedral ceiling, fireplace, walk-in closets, large eat-in kitchen, formal dining room, extra storage room in attic, spacious screened and glass enclosed balcony/ lanai, heated pool, covered parking, 10 min. to beach. 1 animal allowed fully funded reserves. $279,000. Call 941-7271083 or 941-704-5967 or e-mail: Rikki.UW@ gmail.com
MARCH 21, 2018
RENTALS: ANNUAL 3BR/2.5BA TOWNHOUSE CONDO, 1450 s/f on 2 floors. 2 pools, private beach access. Nicely furnished or unfurnished. Washer / Dryer inside. Screened lanai & 1 car garage. Water, sewer, trash, basic cable, pest control included. Background & credit required. $3000/ mo. $3000 security. Longboat Key. 3BR/2.5BA HOME only steps to the beach. 2 car garage, inside washer/dryer with modern updated kitchen. 2 screened porches. Walk to shops, restaurants & beaches. $2100/mo. First, last security. Background & credit required Ask for Ed DUNCAN REAL ESTATE 941-779-0304 www.teamduncan.com ANNUAL RENTAL and CONDOMINIUM Association management serviced by (2) offices open 7 days a week! Contact junew@ islandreal.com – 941-3451295 - Island Real Estate of Anna Maria Island, Inc. Annual Rental- Anna Maria 2BR/1BA steps to beach. $1750/mo. No Pets. Fran Maxon Real Estate 941-778-2307. HOLMES BEACH 2BR/2BA includes washer/dryer, water, trash & security system. No smoking/No pets. $1750/mo. First, last & security deposit. Call 860-922-3857
RENTALS: SEASONAL & VACATION TIFFANY PLACE Gulf Front Condo for Rent Incredible views from living room and master bedroom. 2BR/2BA Green Real Estate Call 941-778-0455 ANNA MARIA ISLAND, Fl Condos. Pool beach access, fully equipped $650-$800/ wk Redekercondos.com 941-704-7525 or 941-7781915 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
GREAT RATES! Weekly, Monthly. 3BR/2BA NW Bradenton. Call Grace 941-201-2190 AVAILABLE WINTER SEASON 2018 and 2019; 2BR/2BA ground-level with carport and patio. 1.5 blocks to Gulf. Updated, flat-screen TV’s, must see! Anna Maria 941- 565-2373 WINTER 2019--Onebedroom apartments half block to beach and trolley stop. Community fishing dock. Three-month minimum. $2,450/month plus tax. Photos at www. InnRealLife.com. 941/7203670 NW BRADENTON WEEKLY or MONTHLY Rental. Available April 15. 1BR/1BA large kitchen/living room combination. Washer/ Dryer in unit, All utilities included. No smoking/No Pets. One week minimum. $450/wk, $1700/mo. Call 941-761-4483 AVAILABLE 2018 & 2019 SEASON. Large bright 1BR/1BA Condo on Bay. Steps to Gulf. 55+, 4 month minimum, pool, private fishing pier. $2400/mo. Call 647771-3288 or amigulftobaycondo@gmail.com
HOLMES BEACH MARTINIQUE South. 2BR/2BA Condo on Beach. Pool, fully furnished, sleeps 4. Available April 15 to December 15, 2018. $1900/ mo. 3 months minimum. No Pets. timmerjul@yahoo. com
RENTAL WANTED RENTAL WANTED ANNUALLY: Artists workspace Anna Maria Island or nearby w/sink/ water 917-545-0613 dehaanx2@tampabay. rr.com 917-843-1615 blbachner@earthlink.net RETIRED PROFESSIONAL COUPLE seeks moderately priced annual rental starting October 2018. Excellent references and credit. We are former longtime homeowners who know how to care for your property. Prefer unfurnished. One house-trained cat. Call 512-442-1007, grodd56@ gmail.com.
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 $65. Sarasota $30. Pets welcome. Very dependable. Reasonable rates. Contact Jeanne. 941-779-5095
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MARCH 21, 2018
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MARCH 21, 2018