Anna Maria Island Sun May 02, 2018

- Named Best Florida Newspaper In Its Class -

VOL 18 No. 29

May 2, 2018

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

Sgt. Mike Jones and Deputy Amy Leach recognize Nick Costa for the role he played in preventing his little brother Jake from drowning while vacationing in Anna Maria.

Older brother prevents pool tragedy A sibling’s alertness and the family’s swift actions prevented a vacation from turning tragic.

BY JOE HENDRICKS

SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

This beachfront property owners by Terry and Pat Olesen will be surveyed and staked this week at the city’s expense.

Commission jettisons customary use ordinance The city is paying to have a few beachfront properties surveyed to determine exactly where the private property lines are.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA – City officials have abandoned the pursuit of a customary use ordinance as a means of ensuring continued public access to state-owned

public beach lands that lie between private property lines and the city’s coastal waters.

According to the Surfrider Foundation website, a local customary use ordinance recognizes and protects existing public beach access rights based on the legal doctrine of customary use.

On April 12 – in response to a new state law taking effect July 1 – Anna Maria commissioners directed City Attorney Becky Vose

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

SEE ORDINANCE, PAGE 33

Dr. Jose Arbella shares his thoughts on a proposed customary use ordinance.

INSIDE NEWS 4 OPINION 6 SUN SURVEY 7 OUTDOORS 22-23 ENTERTAINMENT 25 SPORTS 26 REAL ESTATE 30-35 CLASSIFIEDS 37-39

IT’S back to the drawing board for

THE BRIDGE

Tender Inn parties for vets and pets. 18

Anna Maria Island, Florida

ANNA MARIA – Seven-and-a-half-year-old New Hampshire resident Nick Costa was recognized last week for an act that helped save the life of his four-yearold brother, Jake.

During the Anna Maria City Commission’s April 26 meeting, Sgt. Mike Jones presented Costa with a certificate of appreciation. The boys’ parents, Jeff and Jessica Costa, accompanied them to the commission meeting.

Before he presented Nick with his certificate of appreciation, Jones described the events that transpired.

“On Sunday, April 22, in the late afternoon, Nicholas was here on vacation with his family. They had just arrived and were settling in at their vacation rental on South Bay. Nicholas and Jacob were playing on the beach with their parents and decided to go to the pool deck. Unbeknownst to Jacob’s father, he followed behind his dad, defeating the pool gate lock. While his dad and brother were attempting to set up a pool table on the deck, Jacob decided to go into the pool. Jacob’s older brother, Nicholas, noticed he was beneath the surface and was in severe danger. Nicholas alerted his father immediately. Mr. Costa jumped in, pulled his son out of the pool and he was unresponsive and not breathing.

Dad, along with other family members, started CPR and revived Jacob. On behalf of the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office, Sheriff Wells and the city of Anna Maria, please accept this small token of appreciation for your heroic act. Good job,” Jones said.

designers of the skate park. 3 HOLMES BEACH to revisit noise

ordinance. 12 The Island’s award-winning weekly newspaper www.amisun.com

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MAY 2, 2018

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Skate park plans scrapped by users It’s back to the drawing board for City Engineer Lynn Burnett for a new design for the Holmes Beach Skate Park, but this time she has help from local skaters.

BY KRISTIN SWAIN Sun Staff Writer | kswain@amisun.com

HOLMES BEACH – Members of the local skateboarding community aren’t happy with designs for the rehabilitation of the city’s skate park, but they’re willing to help city leaders get it right.

“This design is really bad,” Jack Coleman said after seeing the proposed layout and equipment for the park at a City Commission work session April 26.

Corey Wash said the material used for pre-fabricated pieces for the park is outdated and would make more noise than a concrete skate park. He said using concrete could be more cost-efficient for the city and require less upkeep than a pre-fabricated park.

“Pre-fab parks become prehistoric in the world of skateboarding,” he said.

Wash suggested expanding the skate park and relocating the adjacent toddler park.

“I’ve never liked the toddler park there,” Commissioner Judy Titsworth said of the small playground’s current location bordering Marina Drive.

Casey Coleman said he feels if the skate park was updated to allow the inclusion of skaters at all levels it would help build the skateboarding community on the Island and keep children from traveling into downtown Bradenton to skate.

In addition to building the park out of concrete, expanding it and possibly including a skate bowl, another suggestion was to add lights to the park to allow for skating after sunset, especially during the hot summer months.

Wash volunteered to help Burnett come up with a better design for the redevelopment of the park.

Titsworth said she’d like Burnett to look at “the bigger picture” of the entire park complex, including the

SUBMITTED

The plans submitted by City Engineer Lynn Burnett to replace aging ramps with new prefabricated pieces in the Holmes Beach Skate Park were dismissed by commissioners after users vetoed the proposed equipment. skate park, toddler park, baseball diamond and city field when making her next recommendations for the skate park.

“The Island park means a lot to us,” Matt Bower said.

“Thank you for even looking into this again,” Roberto Rodriguez said.

Burnett thanked all the skaters for attending the meeting and speaking up about what they’d like to see in the park. She said she would be following up with them on suggestions and hopes they’ll all be back to offer input when a new design is presented to commissioners.

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ISLAND NEWS

IN BRIEF

Concession fund request moves forward The amended concession funds request is moving forward to Manatee County commissioners after receiving a unanimous vote of approval from Holmes Beach commissioners. After the list was amended by Holmes Beach commissioners to include $50,000 for a license plate recognition system, the three Island mayors agreed amidst concerns about the system to remove the line item from the concession funds ask.

With all three Island cities onboard, it’s now up to county commissioners to determine if they’ll approve requested funding for all or any of the listed projects. Projects include capital improvements to The Center of Anna Maria Island, replacement of the Anna Maria City Pier, repairs to the Holmes Beach Skate Park and pedestrian safety improvements in Holmes Beach and Bradenton Beach. The request totals $1,073,520 with the fund topping more than $1.2 million and growing.

Turtle Talk on Tuesday Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring will host a Turtle Talk on Tuesday, May 15, at 10 a.m. at Waterline Marina Resort, 5325 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach.

The 30-minute program will cover 35 years of surveying sea turtle nesting on Anna Maria Island beaches with photos, videos and stories.

Free children’s activity books, temporary turtle tattoos and handouts will be available.

For more information, call 941-778-5638.

Catch it early Prevention Plus Stroke and Vascular Screening will be offered on Tuesday, May 8, at The Center of Anna Maria Island, 407 Magnolia, Anna Maria.

The screenings are being offered at reduced prices.

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

To register, call 888-667-7587.

New sidewalk, bike lanes coming Construction crews are improving drainage, building a sidewalk and bicycle lanes and installing new signage and pavement markings on SR 64 from Martinique Drive, near Neal Preserve, to 107th Court West on Perico Island. Since the work occurs off the roadway, lane closures will not be required. The job is scheduled to be completed this fall.

Visit our website, www.amisun.com.

Scan this code with your smartphone to go there.

MAY 2, 2018

People must share beach with nesting shorebirds

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

It’s nesting season for Florida’s waterbirds, and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) and Audubon Florida are reminding beachgoers and boaters to give these birds and their young space to help keep them safe.

“This is a critical time of year for nesting birds and their young,” said Craig Faulhaber, avian conservation coordinator for the FWC. “By taking a few simple steps, people can enjoy a day at the beach or on the water without disturbing nesting birds and their chicks, which increases the birds’ chances of survival.”

Shorebirds and seabirds build shallow nests out of sand and shells on beaches in spring and summer, and eggs and chicks are difficult to see. Wading birds, such as herons and egrets, as well as pelicans, are also nesting now on islands around the state.

Both types of birds can be easily disturbed if people approach too closely. Such disturbance can cause birds to abandon their nesting sites, exposing eggs and chicks to predators, sun exposure and other harm.

Shorebird nests, eggs and chicks are well-camouflaged and can easily be missed and even stepped on unless people know to look out for them. The snowy plover, least tern, black skimmer, American oystercatcher and Wilson’s plover are several of Florida’s beach-nesting bird species facing conservation challenges. Wading birds and pelicans typically nest in mangroves and on tree islands.

Reddish egrets, tricolored herons and roseate spoonbills have also experienced declines.

“Florida’s coasts took a beating from Hurricane Irma in 2017,” said Julie Wraithmell, interim executive director for Audubon Florida. “We can’t control impacts to nesting sites from weather, but we can protect them from human disturbance. This

CINDY LANE | SUN

Nesting shorebird colonies, like this black skimmer colony, are marked with stakes and tape on Anna Maria Island. year it is more important than ever.”

The FWC has established Critical Wildlife Areas (CWA) to protect congregations of one or more species of wildlife from human disturbance during critical life activities such as nesting, feeding or migration.

People can help keep nesting birds safe by keeping their distance from CWAs and other areas where birds are nesting or raising young. In addition to observing the marked-off areas around CWAs, people can also help by following a few simple steps while enjoying the beach this season: • Keep your distance from birds, on the beach or on the water. If birds become agitated or leave their nests, you are too close. A general rule is to stay at least 300 feet from a nest. Birds calling out loudly and divebombing are signals for you to back off.

• Respect posted areas. Avoid posted nesting sites and use designated walkways when possible.

• Never intentionally force birds to fly or run. This causes them to use energy needed for nesting, and eggs and chicks may be left vulnerable to the sun’s heat or predators. Teach children not to chase shorebirds

and seabirds, and kindly ask fellow beachgoers to do the same. Shorebirds and seabirds outside of posted areas may be feeding or resting and need to do so without disturbance.

• Do not take pets to the beach; it is illegal on Anna Maria Island.

• Keep the beach clean and do not feed wildlife. Food scraps attract predators, such as raccoons and crows, which can prey on shorebird eggs and chicks. Litter on beaches can entangle birds and other wildlife.

• If you see people disturbing nesting birds, gently let them know how their actions may hurt the birds’ survival. If they continue to disturb nesting birds, report it to the FWC’s Wildlife Alert Hotline at 888-404-FWCC (3922), #FWC or *FWC on a cellphone or by texting Tip@ MyFWC.com. You may also report nests that are not posted to our Wildlife Alert Program.

For more information, go to MyFWC.com/Shorebirds and download the Share the Beach with Beach-Nesting Birds brochure or go to the Florida Shorebird Alliance website at FLShorebirdAlliance.org External Website to learn more about how to participate in shorebird and seabird conservation efforts.

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MAY 2, 2018

Turtles dig the dark

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

Turtle season is on.

From now until Halloween, residents and visitors to Anna Maria Island’s Gulffront and bayfront properties can help threatened nesting and hatching loggerhead and green sea turtles survive by turning off or shielding lights that are visible from the beach and changing light bulbs to turtle-friendly bulbs.

Lighting inspections begin this week, Bradenton Beach Code Enforcement Officer Gail Garneau said, adding that property owners and rental agents should take a proactive approach to monitor their properties for compliance during the nesting sea turtle season, including visiting the beach at night to check the visibility of lights.

The city, www.cityofbradentonbeach.com,and Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shore-

bird Monitoring, www.islandturtlewatch.org, have literature available to provide to lodgers.

Beachgoers also should avoid using flashlights or cellphones at night, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) suggests.

Caring beachgoers can make a significant difference in helping sea turtles survive, said Dr. Robbin Trindell, who heads the FWC’s sea turtle management program.

Lights are not the only issue for turtles.

FWC recommends filling in beach holes, which can entrap nesting and hatching turtles.

In addition, all beach furniture and other beach items must be pulled back behind the dune line from sunset to sunrise to avoid nesting and hatching sea turtles from becoming entangled, Garneau said.

Island cities are required to protect imperiled species such as sea turtles and shorebirds

because they have received sand in beach renourishment projects, she said, adding, “The city is mandated to ensure compliance with the regulations and take preventative measures.”

Other ways to help sea turtles include properly disposing of fishing line to avoid entanglements and reporting those that are sick, injured, entangled or dead to the FWC’s Wildlife Alert Hotline at 888-404-FWCC (3922) or #FWC or *FWC on a cellphone.

Purchase a “Helping Sea Turtles Survive” Florida license plate at www.buyaplate. com, which contributes to sea turtle research, rescue and conservation efforts, or donate $5 and receive an FWC sea turtle decal.

You can also adopt a turtle nest from Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring at www.islandturtlewatch.org.

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TURTLE TIPS

BIRD TIPS

During sea turtle season, May 1 – Oct. 31, please follow these tips: • Turn off lights visible from the beach and close blinds from sundown to sunrise; lights confuse nesting sea turtles and may cause them to go back to sea and drop their eggs in the water, where they won’t hatch. Light can also attract hatchlings away from the water.

• Don’t use flashlights, lanterns or camera flashes on the beach at night.

• Remove all objects from the sand from sundown to sunrise; they can deter sea turtles from nesting and disorient hatchlings.

• Fill in the holes you dig in the sand before leaving the beach; they can trap nesting and hatching sea turtles, which cannot live long out of the water.

• Don’t use wish lanterns or fireworks; they litter the beach and Gulf.

• Do not trim trees and plants that shield the beach from lights.

• Never touch a sea turtle; it’s the law. If you see people disturbing turtles, call the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s Wildlife Alert hotline at 888-404FWCC (3922).

During bird nesting season, March through August, please follow these tips: • Never touch a shorebird chick, even if it’s wandering outside a staked nesting area.

• Teach kids not to chase birds – bird parents may abandon nests if they’re disturbed.

• Don’t feed birds – it encourages them to fly at people aggressively and is not good for their health.

• If birds are screeching and flying at you, you’re too close.

• Avoid posted bird nesting areas and use designated walkways to the beach.

• Keep pets away from bird nesting areas.

• Keep the beach clean; food scraps attract predators such as raccoons and crows to the beach, and litter can entangle birds and other wildlife.

• If you see people disturbing nesting birds, call the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s Wildlife Alert hotline at 888-404-FWCC (3922).

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OPINION

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

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MAY 2, 2018

Crossing concerns

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nna Maria Commissioner Amy Tripp made a good point last week when she suggested the $150,000 it would cost to install an automated license plate recognition system might be money better spent on lighted crosswalks.

Automated plate readers may or may not be a good idea, but most folks would agree that safe crosswalks are a great idea.

Tourists love to walk to the beach to enjoy the sunsets, but if they linger long enough they find themselves walking home in darkness, often with children in tow. The growing fear is that someday a large group of visitors is going to get struck by a motorist who doesn’t see them crossing.

City commissioners in all three Island cities spend a great deal of time funding projects. Perhaps the time has come for lighted sidewalks to become a greater funding priority – an endeavor that will require FDOT cooperation for crosswalks located on the state-owned portions of Gulf Drive in Bradenton Beach and Holmes Beach.

Perhaps the finest example of a lighted Gulf Drive crosswalk is in front of the Runaway Bay condominiums in Bradenton Beach. Pedestrians push a button to activate the signal lighting, and it’s nearly impossible for a motorist not to see that a crossing’s imminent. There’s another lighted crosswalk near the Gulf Drive Cafe, but folks tend to cross there in a more willynilly fashion rather than using the designated crossing area.

Public safety is a responsibility shared by elected officials, pedestrians, bicyclists and motorists alike.

Pedestrians: Walk defensively, be aware of your surroundings and cross at marked crossings when possible. When crossing, look into the eyes of the approaching driver to see if they see you and plan to stop.

Bicyclists: Follow the rules of the road and obey traffic signals – including stop signs that may slow your roll but save your life. And put lights on your bike if riding at night, even if it’s a rented bike.

Motorists: Be constantly alert for pedestrians crossing anywhere at any time and pay close attention to the yellow pedestrian crossing signs at which you are required by law to stop when pedestrians are present.

This isn’t rocket science. We’re all in this together; let’s all do our part so we all get home safe.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Use the crosswalks In your April 18 article on safety, and in most discussions on the subject, I seldom see or hear anyone addressing the facet of pedestrian legal responsibility to only cross at crosswalks. If more signage is going to be utilized should we also consider those reminding pedestrians of their legal responsibilities?

Too many times I see pedestrians cross outside of a crosswalk within easy access and within sight of one.

Robert Docherty Holmes Beach

federal government career. Gather a small group with various skills and empower them to come up with rational solutions in a short time frame. The key to success, of course, is who can provide the impetus and leadership to the group.

In that regard, I would heartily recommend Kim Rash, a knowledgeable and unintimidable AMI community betterment advocate.

What have we got to lose, another 10 years of gridlock?

Bob McCaffrey Holmes Beach

New leadership needed

Art League says thanks

For years I have suggested ways to alleviate the Island's traffic problems. They have routinely been ignored, further ignored and then completely ignored. No problem.

I'm not a traffic guru, just a poor slob who happens to live here and endure the results of my local government's inaction.

I would guess if you reviewed the minutes of the last 10 years of our Island's (all three cities) city commission meetings you might find a grand total of two or three hours devoted to what is arguably the Island's biggest nightmare. Hmm. Instead of another two-year long, $500,000 study, I would humbly suggest another approach, one that worked exceedingly well during my

On behalf of the Anna Maria Island Art League board of directors, we want to give a big thank you to every person who supports and volunteers at our festivals and the Art League throughout the years. You are the backbone of our organization. The AMIAL would not be able to exist without our much-appreciated volunteers.

All of us at the Anna Maria Island Art League

Too many cars We just returned from a week in Sanibel. Marvelous island, but their traffic woes are world class, too.

The flow of thousands of tourists and workers every day to and from

Take The Sun Survey on Page 7. are readily helped by two traffic control officers who work the two major intersections on Sanibel.

They do an amazing job of making it as smooth as possible. (No traffic lights on the Island.)

The bike lanes on the island are great. The traffic yields to them at the well-marked crossings, and the number of bikers who use them is huge. Beach parking is $5 per hour at the large numerous lots that have great facilities. A bit pricey, but it does not cut down on the number of people who use them at all – jam packed every day while we were there The open, natural spaces and refuges are numerous, but the main drag has everything you could want in a vacation spot.

The big bridge to the island has a $6 toll. Anna Maria officials would do well to go down on a field trip and see how they do their season down there.

Every year the season here seems to get busier and busier with traffic at a daily standstill on Manatee Avenue and Cortez Road. Either start dredging more Island, build mega parking garages or ferry over tourists. It’s only going to get worse with the thousands of new homes approved yearly by our elected officials.

Cindy McClure Cortez

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MAY 2, 2018

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THE SUN SURVEY

ON THE AGENDA

PREVIOUS QUESTION: What do you think of FDOT's choice of a 65-foot-high bridge to

ANNA MARIA

replace the Cortez drawbridge?

10005 GULF DRIVE

May 8, 4 p.m. – Planning and Zoning Board meeting May 10, 6 p.m. – City Commission special meeting For information, call 7086130

BRADENTON BEACH 107 GULF DRIVE N.

May 2, 9:30 a.m. – CRA meeting May 2, 11 a.m. – Pier Team meeting May 2, 1 p.m. – Scenic WAVES meeting May 3, 6 p.m. – City Com-

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mission meeting May 8, 1 p.m. – City Commission workshop For information, call 7781005

HOLMES BEACH 5801 MARINA DRIVE

May 2, 10 a.m. – Parks and Beautification Committee meeting May 2, 6 p.m. – Planning Commission meeting May 8, 6 p.m. – City Commission meeting May 10, 6 p.m. – City Commission work session For information, call 7085800

MARK YOUR CALENDAR NOTE: EVENTS ARE FREE UNLESS INDICATED.

FRIDAY MAY 4

WEDNESDAY

68%

I don't approve. It's just too big and will ruin the village of Cortez.

MAY 2

32%

I approve. Let's get it built asap.

THE SUN SURVEY IS NOT A SCIENTIFIC POLL AND IS USED FOR ENTERTAINMENT PURPOSES ONLY.

THIS WEEK’S SURVEY Would you be in favor of building parking garages on Anna Maria Island?

• Yes. One or more are desperately needed.

• No. They are an eyesore and would be out of place.

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 Dianne 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.

Painting with a fish, The Folk School at Florida Maritime Museum, 4415 119th St. W., Cortez, 9:30 a.m., $35.

Beach Market, Coquina Beach, 2650 Gulf Drive S., Bradenton Beach, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. For information call 941-518-4431.

OneBlood blood donation bus, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 11 a.m.

Gentle chair yoga, Anna Maria Island Art League, 5312 Holmes Blvd., Holmes Beach, noon.

Gulf Coast Writers, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 12:45 p.m.

THURSDAY MAY 3

Veteran services information, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 9 a.m.

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.

Knit and crochet, 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.

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

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

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.

Mahjong, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach 1 p.m.

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

SATURDAY MAY 5

NEST Nature Days, Robinson Preserve, 1704 99th St. N.W., Bradenton, 9 a.m. to noon and 1 to 4 p.m.

Jelly making, The Folk School at Florida Maritime Museum, 4415 119th St. W., Cortez, 10 a.m., $38.

Healing meditation, Anna Maria Island Art League, 5312 Holmes Blvd., Holmes Beach, 11 a.m.

SUNDAY MAY 6

Beach Market, Coquina Beach, 2650 Gulf Drive S., Bradenton Beach, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. For information call 941-518-4431.

SEE CALENDAR, PAGE 11

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MAY 2, 2018

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MARGARITAS

ALL DAY!

May 3, 2018 M LANDSIDE 6906 14th St. West 941.758.7880

CORTEZ *BRIDGE ST. PIER ELLENTON Bradenton Beach 1525 51st Ave East 6696 Cortez Road 941.792.0077 941.778.AMOB (2662) 41 941.721.7773 *Prime Rib not available at Pier Location

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MAY 2, 2018

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Anna Maria Commission opposes plate readers City officials are concerned about data breaches, drivers being tracked and whether there’s a need for the law enforcement technology.

I trust him with my life, but I wouldn’t trust him with my data.”

Dan Murphy, Anna Maria Mayor

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA – City commissioners support Mayor Dan Murphy’s objections to an automated license plate recognition system.

Murphy shared his concerns at the commission’s April 26 meeting.

“Holmes Beach has proposed the placement of eight license plate readers within the city of Holmes Beach and down in Bradenton Beach. I’m relatively familiar with the devices, and I’m very familiar with the technology behind the devices. The risk of course is hacking.

Every system is vulnerable,” the former Verizon executive said, citing Facebook and the IRS as examples.

“Do we need this much technology?

If we do, at least show us the architecture – what it looks like and what are the vulnerabilities? It should be administered by a professional, not some contractor, not a chief of police.

"I trust him with my life, but I wouldn’t trust him with my data. My movements are my business. I want someone besides the chief of police looking at that data,” Murphy said.

“It’s naive to think it doesn’t track anything. The capability is there to track your every move. You need more than just a vendor coming in and selling you some off-the-shelf product.

"It’s not the amount of money that I’m

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

Anna Maria Commissioners and Mayor Dan Murphy are in agreement when it comes to automated license plate readers. so concerned about, it’s the lack of safeguards and the way they’re approaching it. If they could assure me that the experts are there, I’d be less reluctant,” Murphy said.

He also questioned whether there’s enough crime in Anna Maria to warrant the technology.

Commissioner Carol Carter asked Murphy about the license plate reader system being added and then removed from the three Island cities’ proposed surplus beach concession revenue project funding list.

“This came out of the blue,” Murphy said of the additional $150,000 request for plate readers. “I said I’m sorry, I don’t want to be the spoiler, but the city of Anna Maria has not approved this.”

A project must be supported by all three of the Island’s city commissions before it can be submitted to county commissioners for the potential use of surplus beach concession funds.

Commission chair Doug Copeland opposes the technology.

“My son-in-law is a criminal defense lawyer. Recently, he made a trip to Tampa for a conference and the infamous Mr. (Michael) Barfield was in the car with him. On the return trip, he was sharing the story of clients they had in Naples who were suing the city because one of their police officers become fond of a woman, tracked her via license plate recognition on two separate occasions, pulled her over and harassed her. I’m very skeptical that we need this much information. It’s just to ripe for misuse,” he said.

Commissioner Brian Seymour agreed and noted the city recently added additional deputies to its contracted police force.

“Personally, I’d prefer that police police the community and not sit in their cars and wait for a computer to go ‘ding.’ I’ve spoken with the sergeant

about this. We have this equipment available to us in Manatee County should we have a rash of problems in our city. We can deploy this equipment on a temporary basis. I don’t see our need for it on a regular basis,” Seymour said.

Commissioner Dale Woodland shared similar concerns about data security.

“It’s up to the user to define what they’re going to capture and how they’re going to use it. This could be something we might need in the future, you never know. It is an effective tool for crime, but we don’t have a lot of crime,” he added.

Commissioner Amy Tripp agreed.

“I don’t think the criminal activity we have on the Island, let alone in our city, warrants that kind of need.

For our tax dollars, I think you could do lighted sidewalks, which would be more meaningful to people than eight cameras,” she said.

“It seems Dan that you have support from the commission for your position,” Copeland said.

Holmes Beach Police Chief Bill Tokajer recently said he plans to pursue the plate recognition system independent of the other two cities and without the surplus beach concession revenue funding.

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MAY 2, 2018

Parking garages and charter review discussed The Charter Review Committee will be asked to review charter amendments adopted last year and propose potential amendments to include on the November ballot.

its dock contractor, Technomarine.

“I think it’s running very well the way it is,” Commissioner Marilyn Maro said of the city’s current form of government.

Maro praised the monthly department head meetings that provide commissioners with updates from staff regarding their efforts to carry out the commission’s directives, and she encouraged residents to attend these meetings.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

BRADENTON BEACH – City Commissioners want to prohibit parking garages citywide, but they don’t feel amending the city charter is the way to do it.

In other charter-related business, the commission plans to appoint a Charter Review Committee (CRC) that among other things will debate the need to hire a full-time city manager.

PARKING GARAGE

At its April 19 meeting, the commission supported Commissioner Ralph Cole’s suggestion that the land development code and comprehensive plan need to be amended to ensure that multi-level parking garages cannot be built anywhere in Bradenton Beach.

Cole said the language currently contained in the land development code and the comp plan do not mirror one another when it comes to parking garages.

City Planner Alan Garrett told commissioners the comp plan currently allows for parking garages in two of the city’s dozen or so comprehensive plan zone designations. The commission wants to change that to ensure that no multi-level parking garages can be built in the city.

The commission discussion was partly inspired by the Keep Our

CHARTER REVIEW COMMITTEE

JACK CLARKE | SUBMITTED

Bradenton Beach Commissioners want to appoint a charter review committee and prohibit parking garages independent of the charter review process.

Residential Neighborhoods (KORN) political action committee’s efforts to place a parking garage prohibition charter amendment question on the November ballot.

City Attorney Ricinda Perry said she does not think state law allows the city charter to be used as the means to address land use issues like a parking garage. She agreed these concerns should be addressed as commissionenacted amendments to the land development code and comp plan.

CITY MANAGER?

During the April 19 meeting, some commissioners shared their thoughts on hiring a full-time city manager – another charter amendment proposed

by KORN. Cole said previous CRCs have discussed hiring a city manager but never recommended it.

“It always comes down to the budget, and you’d have to fund another position. Can we afford it? Would we have

to raise taxes for the manager’s position?” Cole said.

Mayor John Chappie said he prefers the city’s current weak mayor form of government because it provides equal decision-making authority for all five commission members. He feels this prevents a strong mayor or city manager from having too much influence on the decision-making process.

During public input, KORN founder and treasurer John Metz expressed support for a city manager. He feels a city with a $3 million annual budget needs a professional manager.

He suggested a city manager trained in the execution and fulfillment of contracts could have prevented the delays the city’s experiencing with getting a floating day dock installed alongside the Bridge Street Pier.

Chappie, Perry and Cole disagreed with Metz’s opinion that a city manager could have prevented the delays the city has been subjected to by

The city clerk’s office will accept applications for CRC members through May 7. Chappie will then nominate members for the commission’s approval. Commissioners can also recommend committee members.

The appointed committee will conduct a comprehensive review of the city charter – the legally binding document that determines how the city is governed and operated.

The CRC will be asked to review and clarify three charter amendments adopted by city voters last fall. The committee also will be asked to help better define the residency requirements placed on city commissioners and commission candidates.

The committee will have the ability to review, but not alter, the four charter amendments proposed by KORN. The committee could then propose its own amendments to address concerns raised by the KORN amendments.

The committee can also propose for commission consideration any other charter amendment the committee feels would be beneficial to the city and its citizens if supported by city voters in November.

www.amisun.com

MAY 2, 2018

THE SUN

Shearon election complaint dismissed

MARK YOUR CALENDAR From Page 7

MONDAY

In 2015, former mayor Jack Clarke filed an election complaint against his mayoral challenger, Bill Shearon.

MAY 7

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

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

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

BRADENTON BEACH – Three years after it was filed, the Florida Elections Commission has dismissed an election complaint mayoral candidate Jack Clarke filed against mayoral candidate Bill Shearon.

The complaint stemmed from a shared mailer Shearon and candidate Janie Robertson sent out during their 2015 city commission campaigns. Shearon and Robertson placed separate campaign letters in the same envelopes sent to city voters and Clarke alleged this violated state election law.

“I have reviewed your complaint and find it to be legally insufficient,” Florida Elections Commission Executive Director Amy McKeever Toman wrote in her April 23 letter to Clarke.

“The essential allegation of this complaint is this respondent (Shearon), 2015 candidate for mayor of Bradenton Beach, failed to report an independent expenditure for a joint mailing that advocated for his own election as well as that of Janie Robertson.

"The complaint further alleges that by sending the joint mailing, the respondent made an expenditure in furtherance of the candidacy of another candidate,” Toman’s letter says.

“In response to complaint, respondent provided a campaign finance report that showed an expenditure for mailing supplies and an in-kind

11

TUESDAY

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

The Florida Elections Commission has deemed legally insufficient an election complaint filed against Bill Shearon in 2015. contribution for stamps during September 2015, just before the mailing was delivered.

"In addition, in a comparison case against Janie Robertson, the investigations showed that she shared in the costs of the joint mailing and, as such, respondent did not give anything in value to further her campaign. For these reasons, I find the complaint to be legally insufficient,” Toman’s letter says.

In Nov. 2016, the Elections Commission fined Robertson $75 for certifying a campaign report was true when it was not.

Clarke’s complaints against Shearon and Robertson were inspired in part by statements Robertson made about him in her campaign letter, which Clarke alleged to be false and made with malice. The Elections

Commission took no action on those allegations because Robertson was not an opponent of Clarke. She was running against candidate Ralph Cole, who later won that race.

The race between Clarke and Shearon later ended in an exact tie.

That race was then settled by the now-infamous cutting of the cards that saw Shearon pull an ace of clubs to best Clarke’s 10 of clubs.

Clarke is still awaiting rulings on elections complaints he filed last fall against several members of the now-defunct Concerned Neighbors of Bradenton Beach (CNOBB) political action committee. Clarke alleges CNOBB was late in filing its financial reports and late in filing its statement of organization.

May 8 NEST Nature Days, Robinson Preserve, 1704 99th St. N.W., Bradenton, 9 a.m. to noon and 1 to 4 p.m.

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

Candle making, The Folk School at Florida Maritime Museum, 4415 119th St. W., Cortez, 10 a.m., $38.

Farmer’s market, City Pier Park, 101 Bay Blvd. N., Anna Maria, 11 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.

Mahjong for beginners, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 11:30 a.m.

WEDNESDAY MAY 9

Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce Sunrise Breakfast, Cortez Café, 12108 Cortez Road, Cortez, 7:45 a.m., $8 per member or $16 per prospective member. Reserve to 941-778-1541 or info@amichamber.org.

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

Beach Market, Coquina Beach, 2650 Gulf Drive S., Bradenton Beach, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. For information call 941-518-4431.

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

Gentle chair yoga, Anna Maria Island Art League, 5312 Holmes Blvd., Holmes Beach, noon.

Happy Hour 2 pm-5 pm & 10 pm-late night

5346 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach (941) 778-5788 hurricanehanks.com

$2.25 WELL DRINKS $2.25 DOMESTIC BOTTLED BEER $3.50 HOUSE WINE

12

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MAY 2, 2018

Commissioners to revisit noise ordinance Commissioners agree to take another look at the city’s noise ordinance to see if some relief can be offered to residents struggling with loud noise from neighboring properties.

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

HOLMES BEACH – Commissioners aren’t sure how they’re going to amend the city’s noise ordinance to help residents with ongoing issues, but they all agree that something needs to be done.

After a lengthy discussion with legal counsel and suggestions offered by residents, Commissioner Judy Titsworth said she’d place discussion for amending the noise ordinance and public nuisance ordinance on an upcoming work session agenda.

Holmes Beach Police Chief Bill Tokajer agreed with commissioners. While

he said officers are seeing some progress in reduction of noise complaints, none of the department’s efforts are working as well as he’d like.

Some of the HBPD’s efforts to quiet residential noise, particularly at vacation rental homes, include speaking with tenants and rental agents, handing out pamphlets on city regulations and placing window clings noticing renters of the city’s noise ordinance on doors leading out to pool areas.

A new program where Tokajer said the most positive impact is being had is where code enforcement officers greet renters when they arrive at one of seven identified problem houses. The officers welcome the renters, advise them of the city’s noise ordinance and remind them to be respectful of their residential neighbors while visiting.

Tokajer said the program is working and has reduced calls at those houses to minimal levels.

When a noise complaint is called in,

KRISTIN SWAIN | SUN

Attorney Jim Dye discusses possible options for commissioners to consider when amending the city’s noise ordinance.

HBPD officers or code enforcement officers respond immediately. Upon arrival, an officer takes a reading using a noise meter from multiple areas on the property. If the noise rises above 65 decibels during the day or 50 decibels at night, it’s an automatic violation.

Officers also can use seven standards defined in the noise ordinance to determine if the noise is too loud above the usual noise for the neighborhood and issue a warning or a citation.

SEE NOISE, PAGE 13

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MAY 2, 2018

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13

Arbor Day Left top, representatives from Keep Manatee Beautiful, Scenic WAVES, the Florida Forestry Service and the city commission pick up ceremonial shovels near one of the three desert cassias trees planted at Herb Dolan Park in honor of Arbor Day. Left below, representatives from Keep Manatee Beautiful and the Florida Forestry Service join Anna Maria Public Works employees and Mayor Dan Murphy in Arbor Day celebrations at a pocket park on South Bay Boulevard.

KRISTIN SWAIN | SUN

NOISE: Commissioners to revisit ordinance FROM PAGE 12

“Noise is a very difficult thing to regulate,” Attorney Jim Dye said.

He said he stands behind the city’s current noise ordinance, which has been found to be legally defensible if challenged in court.

One of the ongoing issues residents are having is with loud noise during daytime hours from children in pools at vacation rental properties.

“Kids in pools is a tough argument to make,” Dye said, adding it would be easier if the issue occurred in a 55 and older restricted community. “Kids in the pool may be part of the package with the caveat of if they’re louder than the surrounding noise.”

Tokajer said one of the issues facing officers responding to noise complaints is that the noise from the pools isn’t registering over the 65-decibel limit on the noise meter.

He said while some loud noises, such as screams, last for only a

few seconds, unless the screaming is continuous, the ambient noise in the neighborhood often registers louder than the sounds of children playing. He said his officers do go to the home and ask the occupants to be mindful of the residential neighborhood and keep the noise down.

Some ideas commissioners are considering include lowering the decibel limits and altering nighttime and daytime hours.

In a group statement, residents of Holmes Boulevard suggested decreasing daytime hours to 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Currently, the city’s daytime hours are from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. which Dye said is in line with most other communities. In Manatee County daytime hours are observed from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. Sunday to Thursday and 7 a.m. to midnight on weekends.

Another suggestion is to amend the city’s public nuisance ordinance to allow for

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enforcement at repeat problem vacation rentals even if the occupants change weekly.

A third suggestion is to raise the fines given for noise violations.

Several people spoke in favor of raising fine amounts, something commissioners were open to considering. Commissioner Jim Kihm thanked everyone who spoke and for providing commissioners not only with complaints, but with possible solutions to the problems facing residents.

“We want to be a welcoming city,” he said, adding that he also hopes visitors will be respectful of their temporary neighbors in residential areas.

Commissioner Rick Hurst said he feels more education is necessary to make visitors aware of the city’s regulations.

“Ninety-five percent of people are good, they just don’t know,” he said.

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Loving Christ • Sharing His Grace • Serving All COMMUNITY CHURCH

V BS • June 4-8 4 yrs-5th Dinner included!

5:30-8:30 PM

roserchurch.com/vbs

SUNDAY WORSHIP 8:30 AM in the Chapel 10:00 AM in the Sanctuary Nursery & Church School

8:45 AM Adult Sunday School 9:00 AM Adult Book Study

A NON-DENOMINATIONAL, CHRISTIAN CHURCH • EVERYONE IS WELCOME!

512 Pine Ave • Anna Maria

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941-778-0414 • www.RoserChurch.com • www.facebook.com/RoserChurch

MAY 2, 2018

MAY 2, 2018

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15

Oyster Bar honored The Anna Maria Oyster Bar received the 2018 Restaurant Neighbor award in recognition of its efforts to help children avoid summer learning loss, known as the summer slide, through the Dive Into Reading”summer program.

The annual award is part of the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation (NRAEF) celebration of the best of the best in diversity and inclusion, community service and hospitality leadership.

Only seven winners were selected from hundreds of nominations.

“We have a long tradition of recognizing and encouraging diversity and inclusion, celebrating community engagement and recognizing our industry icons,” said Rob Gifford, executive vice president of the NRAEF. “With over one million restaurants in the U.S., our industry opens doors of opportunity for people of all backgrounds and cultures every day. Each year, the Foundation is excited and honored to recognize the people and businesses that truly embody these values and principles.”

In Manatee County, 49 percent of students are not reading on grade-level by the end of third grade. When John and Amanda Horne, of Anna Maria Oyster Bar, learned this disheartening statistic,

they worked with the Manatee County School District, the library system and the Suncoast Campaign for Grade-Level Reading to find ways to support and improve reading standards in the community.

In June 2017, Dive Into Reading was launched at Anna Maria Oyster Bar in Ellenton to improve children’s reading abilities while also learning important life skills, like table manners, intergenerational communication and decision-making.

The program became a collaboration between the Anna Maria Oyster Bar and its suppliers who helped provide students a hot breakfast before being paired with volunteer mentors to read books in a fun and relaxing restaurant environment.

“Winning this award is the culmination of more than 20 years of giving back to the community with a focus on education for both children and adults,” said John Horne, president and CEO of Anna Maria Oyster Bar. “It inspires and motivates us to continue to ensure every student understands the importance of reading, and to help low-income children succeed in school and in life.

National recognition is especially wonderful for Dive Into Reading as it gives us a platform to share with like-minded restaurateurs how to launch similar programs in

SUBMITTED

Amanda Horne, Anna Maria Oyster Bar; Chris Whittaker, Anna Maria Oyster Bar Ellenton Assistant GM; Anna Maria Oyster Bar Ellenton Kitchen Manager Michael Madden; John Horne, Anna Maria Oyster Bar; and Curtis Wilson, VP & GM National Client Group – American Express Company. their own communities.”

“Locally, Dive Into Reading was recognized as one of the most successful summer reading programs by the Suncoast Campaign with 76 children reading more than 1,600 books over a fourweek period,” said Beth Duda, director of the Suncoast Campaign for Grade-Level Reading for The Patterson Foundation.

“The children that participated in Dive Into Reading actually gained 1.25 months

of reading skills, which beats the national average by more than three months.”

Anna Maria Oyster Bar accepted the award during a special gala held in Washington, D.C., on Tuesday, April 17. Visit www.oysterbar.net to learn more about Anna Maria Oyster Bar and to register as a mentor for Dive into Reading in summer 2018. For more information about the Restaurant Neighbor award, visit ChooseRestaurants.org/awards.

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MAY 2, 2018

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17

My start in the restaurant business – part 1

BY SEAN MURPHY SPECIAL TO THE SUN

I

started my career in the restaurant business at the top.

It was all about politics and nepotism.

The Canada Summer Games was coming to Halifax.

The opening ceremonies and field games were to be held at the St Mary’s University stadium.

Chef Gunther had the cafeteria contract for the stadium because dad loved Chef Gunther’s German chocolate cake and dad was president of the alumni association for the college.

Dad was also on the summer games committee.

The committee was appointed by the governor.

My Dad helped the governor get elected.

Dad got 1,000 dead guys to vote for him.

That was the politics part.

My dad sold Chef Gunther 10,000 key chains to sell to tourists at the games.

They expected 20,000 guests at the

games. Apparently every second one was going to buy a key chain.

Dad also sold the chef on his oldest son as the best person to sell the key chains and hot dogs at the games.

That was the nepotism part.

I was not a terrible candidate for the job.

Chef Gunther needed someone who knew 60 teenage guys and had a minor aptitude for organization.

I had just gotten myself elected as the president of the Catholic high school and I had a paper route.

My job was to hire and organize those 60 guys to sell chef’s key chains and snack food to people in the stadium.

We were going to make a fortune.

Chef Gunther projected sales of a gazillion hot dogs, Cracker Jacks and ice cream bars – and 10,000 key chains.

Chef Gunther was going to make $100,000 and I was getting 10 percent.

Ten thousand dollars was a huuuge fortune in 1968.

I’d be richer than Trump.

I hired 60 guys and three girls. The three girls were to count the money because girls are smarter.

I divided the guys into three teams around three field kitchens.

Each kitchen had a freezer truck for ice cream and stacks of hot dogs and Cracker Jacks and key chains.

Each kitchen had a bank and a girl to watch the bank.

I put the bigger guys in the field kitchens and the faster kids in the stands.

As the stadium filled up with paying customers, we looked good.

We were moving boatloads of hot dogs and Cracker Jacks and ice cream bars.

Key chain sales were a little sluggish.

My name is Murphy.

One of the corollaries of my law is, “Mother Nature always hides with the hidden flaw.”

The hidden flaw that day was the public school system.

The head of the school board was a dam Tory and my father was a Codfish Liberal.

A Codfish Liberal was someone who would vote for a dam codfish if it was a Liberal, and in our house, a dam Tory was just a dam Tory.

The dam Tory heard about my guys getting the day off to sling dad’s key chains and decided that it would be a great idea to bring all the elementary school kids to the opening ceremonies.

The only place to put all those kids was

on the steps in the stands – the steps my fastest guys were running up and down moving hot dogs and key chains.

It took about 10 minutes to fill up all those steps, and my hot dog and key chain machine ground to a halt.

Chef Gunther started screaming at me in German.

It was like Nuremberg in 1935 – a stadium full of people and a screaming German.

I can’t print the stuff Chef Gunther said even if I could translate it, so this is a good place to stop.

The lessons of this first part are, “He who lives by the political sword dies by the political sword”, and “You should not spend your key chain eggs before they are hatched.”

It seems ironic that 50 years later I still have about 60 guys.

They are the best chef and wait staff anywhere, the talented men and women who run the Beach Bistro and Eat Here and The Doctor’s Office. I sure could have used them that day.

Next week you will read the exciting conclusion to this tale and meet the hero of my stadium disaster – my boyhood friend, Louie-the-Thief.

Surfside … Anna Maria Island

“Best Restaurant in America” 4.9 out of 5 ZAGAT stars One of only 11 in the entire country

941.778.6444 www.BeachBistro.com

18

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MAY 2, 2018

Bridge Tender parties for vets and pets Saturday was a busy day on Bridge Street as the Bridge Tender Inn held a street party for vets and pets, raising $6,086 that was split between two non-profit groups.

Bridge Tender Inn Events Coordinator Shannon Dunnan said management was looking for a cause and she was astonished when she learned the statistics on homeless veterans and Liberty Manor is a local endeavor to provide homeless veterans with temporary shelter while they get their lives together.

The other non-profit, Vintage Paws, is a home for older pets who become homeless due to their owners’ inability to take care of them.

There were raffles, meal and drink specials and live music plus a cornhole tournament.

TOM VAUGHT | SUN

Clockwise above, Bay Drive was blocked off for the Vets and Pets fundraiser at Bridge Tender Inn. The cornhole tournament was a popular event. Vicki Copeland and Jennifer at the Vintage Paws tent.

AUCE Fish Fry 1st Sunday Each Month AUCE Snow Crab 2nd Sunday Each Month

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Waterfront Tiki Bar on Sarasota Bay Wed. 5/2 - Matt Coates 6PM Thurs. 5/3 Blues Jam w/Jason Haram 7PM

Fri. 5/4 - Doug Deming & The Jewel Tones 7PM Sat. 5/5 - Tim Chandler 12PM Memphis Rub 7PM Sun. 5/6- Tim Chandler 12PM The Accidentalz 6PM Mon. 5/7 - Natural Vibes 5:30PM Tues. 5/8 - Ted Stevens 6PM

Lunch Specials Daily

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For only $188, you can buy “peace of mind.� Price includes installation and sales tax.

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MAY 2, 2018

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19

Center finances hold steady in March The Center of Anna Maria Island is in the black for another month and board members hope The Giving Challenge and summer camp programming will help keep the nonprofit afloat financially through the lean months of summer.

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

UN

IQU EC oa

sta lE

XPE

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NC

ES

ANNA MARIA – Finances at The Center of Anna Maria Island continue to improve, but the nonprofit still has a long way to go to reach board members’ hopes for the future.

In March, the Center’s finances ended with a $2,300 positive balance bringing the total to $11,308 in the black fiscal year to date. This puts the nonprofit $199,439 over this time last year.

“We are still performing much better than last year in expenses and revenue,” Treasurer Christine Hicks said.

Despite closing the month once again in the black, the Center’s finances remain $36,202 below expected budget

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KRISTIN SWAIN | SUN

Board member Mike Thrasher shows a mock-up of the advertising graphics for The Center of Anna Maria Island’s summer camp. projections of $47,510 fiscal year to date. Board Chair David Zaccagnino attributed part of the shortfall to a lack of financial support from the three Island cities. He said he would soon be approaching each city commission to ask for reconsideration of funding the Center before the fiscal year ends.

Hicks said two other reasons for the shortfall include a lack of fundraising and $100,000 in unbudgeted capital expenditures. Board members agreed

they were all hopeful that upcoming summer camp programming and this year’s Giving Challenge will help strengthen the Center’s financial position through the summer months.

“It’s an exciting time for the Center,” interim Executive Director Carl Weeks said.

Weeks announced that he hired grant writer Yvette Little to join the Center’s SEE CENTER, PAGE 27

20

MAY 2, 2018

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MAY 2, 2018

941.779.2337 9:00 AM - 10:00 PM 7 DAYS A WEEK 5344 GULF DRIVE, HOLMES BEACH

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22

THE SUN

OUTDOORS

Reel Time RUSTY CHINNIS

S

arasota Bay Watch (SBW) conducted its annual Sister Keys Clean up on Saturday, April 28. The event was hosted by the Chiles Group and held on the beach at the Mar Vista Dockside restaurant.

On this beautiful morning 80 volunteers organized

by SBW Events Coordinator Ronda Ryan worked for

MAY 2, 2018

The Sister Keys clean up:

A healthy bay is everybody’s business four hours on the island and around the mangrove fringes collecting 1,300 pounds of trash and 80 recyclable items.

At the start of the event, I, as Sarasota Bay Watch Chairman Emeritus, gave the volunteers a brief history of the Sister Keys. The islands were originally

slated for development in the early 60s and were once again threatened in 1989 when they went on sale for one million dollars. That spurred a group of citizens to form the Sister Keys Conservancy in an attempt to buy and preserve the islands as a nature preserve.

After three years of lobbying, bake sales and two music in the park events the group had only raised $50,000 towards the one-million-dollar sale price.

They then went to the town of Longboat Key, which needed additional open space for its comprehensive plan. The town consummated the sale in 1994, assuring the keys would not be developed.

The islands underwent a million dollar mitigation in 2007 that removed all invasive species, planted native flora and created a two-acre wetland. In the last decade 6-foot mangroves have grown from seeds recruited naturally from the waterways. The rest of the uplands have matured, making the islands one of the best examples of a thriving native marine environment in coastal Florida.

The clean up would not have been possible without the support of The Chiles Group, Mar Vista and the

SUBMITTED

Larry Beggs positions his barge so volunteers Benny Parrish, Becky Parrish and Taylor Wilson can unload their kayaks

SEE REEL TIME, PAGE 23

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MAY 2, 2018

THE SUN

23

Amberjack season opens CAPTAIN DAVE WHITE

Things around Anna Maria Island are heating up. We here at Anna Maria charters have been taking advantage of our warm water temperatures lately.

The tarpon are starting to show up a little bit. Although hard to target with much consistency, we’ve had a couple days that got fish to the boat. Snook season has drawn to a close. Although the fishing remains strong, keeping these hard fighters is out of the question. Shallow water flats and mangroves with live pilchards is sure to land you a couple.

Blackfin tuna are firing off good in the deeper waters offshore. Using live sardines, cigar minnows and pilchards will give you a fair shot at these tasty fish. Amberjack season opens for the month of May. These fish fight about as hard as any out there. These can be found on most wrecks over 50 feet.

Although a bit windy this week, fishing should be great. Hope to see you out there.

CAPTAIN RICK GRASSETT

Anglers fishing with me, out of CB’s Saltwater Outfitters on Siesta Key, had good action during the past week in Sarasota Bay catching and releasing trout to 24 inches, Spanish mackerel and blues on flies and CAL jigs with jerk worms. The best action was on deep grass flats with clear, intermediate sink tip fly lines and CAL jigs on spinning tackle.

CAPTAIN DAVE WHITE | SUBMITTED

Paul DePaulo, from Seaford, N,Y,, shows off a slot Snook caught with Captain David White, of Anna Maria Charters.

Fly anglers Peter and Nini Seaman, from California, fished both shallow and deep grass flats of Sarasota Bay with me early in the week. They had some action in deeper water catching and releasing trout, Spanish mackerel and blues on Clouser flies.

My wife, Karen Grassett, and Mark Nichols, owner of DOA Fishing Lures, fished the 23rd annual Sarasota CCA All Release Challenge fishing tournament with me on Saturday. Mark has been a friend for many years, and DOA Fishing Lures has been a donor to the tournament tackle box since the beginning.

We had good action in Sarasota

Bay with trout to 24 inches on CAL jigs with a variety of tails. Karen won the Lady Angler division for largest trout with a 22-inch trout and I won the largest trout overall with a 24-inch trout.

Tarpon numbers should increase daily as the coastal Gulf warms.

There should be good action with trout, blues and Spanish mackerel on deep grass flats of Sarasota Bay. Fishing shallow water for snook and reds with lures and flies is challenging, although they should also be a good option now. Fishing dock lights in the ICW at night is always a good option for snook and more. Our natural resources are under constant pressure. Please limit your kill; don’t

REEL TIME: Sister Keys cleanup FROM PAGE 22

town of Longboat Key. Longboat Key Mayor Tom Harmer and his wife, Dee, attended and participated in the clean-up and Longboat Key Marine Officer Nick Renno patrolled the Intracoastal waterway to slow boaters.

There were many kayakers present and shore bound volunteers were ferried to the island by local fishing guide Captain Casey Lamb and village resident Mark McBride as well as SBW board members Al Jeffery, John Ryan and Steve Martin. Larry Beggs with Reef Innovations brought a barge where volunteers could off load their trash.

Back at the Mar Vista, volunteers created a human chain to load the debris into a truck provid-

ed by the Town of Longboat Key. One of the people pivotal to the event’s success, James Linkogle, wasn’t able to attend. Linkogle and public works employees cleared and marked trails in the days leading up to the cleanup. Linkogle is projects manager for the Longboat Key Public Works Department.

Volunteers found a wide range of debris including a bed frame, boat cushions, umbrellas, life vests, a boat hull, a tackle box, multiple buckets, crab pots, fishing poles and buoys. All plastics and cans were collected in separate green bags and recycled!

At 11:30, everyone headed back to the Mar Vista where they were treated to a complimentary lunch of hamburgers, chicken sandwiches, Caesar salad and all the

trimmings. Before everyone left, SBW Co-President Larry Stults explained the mission of Sarasota Bay Watch, the motto of which is “A Healthy Bay Is Everybody’s Business.”

SBW has been conducting a scallop restoration project for many years and this year will be releasing 200,000 Southern hard-shell clams into bay waters.

The clams are being raised by a clam farmer in Pine Island Sound and will, hopefully, kick start the return of clams, which have been disappearing from bay waters.

At the end of the day, volunteers expressed their enthusiasm for a day of camaraderie, good deeds and a new appreciation for the importance of working to create a healthy bay.

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THE SUN

MAY 2, 2018

DAVID RANO | SUBMITTED

A fishing boat comes back into the marina at Waterline.

Waterline hosts Kings for Kids Fishing Tournament The Waterline Marina Resort and Beach Club in Holmes Beach hosted its first Kings for Kids Fishing Tournament April 21 in Holmes Beach. The event was held in conjunction with the Marriott Business Council. Winners include team Chasin' Tail members Chad Grimmer, Kenny Grimmer, Adam Ray and Gregg Rodier for largest Spanish mackerel catch.

The largest king mackerel was caught by Chad Grimmer. Aaron Berger and Russel Jones won for highest total combined weight of king and Spanish mackerel caught. Sponsors for the event were the Waterline resort, Marriott, Coppertail Brewing, AMI Outfitters and Boars Head.

DAVID RANO | SUBMITTED

A group of fishermen show off their catch April 21 at the Kings for Kids Fishing Tournament held at the Waterline Marina Resort and Beach Club in Holmes Beach.

MAY 2, 2018

ENTERTAINMENT

FAMILY FUN

in Sarasota. Registration is mandatory; call Kaye Bell at 941-538-0945.

At the library

Celebrate the sea

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, May 2, the One Blood bus will be in the parking lot from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. to take donations; the Gulf Coast Writers will meet from 12:45 a.m. to 2:45 p.m.

• Thursday, May 3, a veteran services professional will be available to help those with problems, 9 to 11 a.m.; knit and crochet, group, 1 to 4 p.m.

• Friday, May 4, Forty Carrots, Partners in Learning, 10 to 11 a.m. .

• Tuesday, May 8, preschool story time, “We Love Mom,” 10 to 11 a.m.; mahjongg, 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.; technical help for portable devices, 2 to 4 p.m.

Call the library at 941-778-6341 for information.

The Florida Maritime Museum, 4415 119th St. W., Cortez, holds a Coastal Community Celebration Event to kick-off World Ocean’s Day on Thursday, June 7, from 6-8 p.m.

During this free, family fun evening, FMM invites the community to celebrate the grand opening of the Burton Store by participating in activities for children and adults.

Join FMM staff for a brief history of the historic Burton Store, its importance in Cortez’s maritime history and its continued legacy as The Folk School at Florida Maritime Museum. After the ribbon-cutting, wander around the museum grounds to find crafts and interactive activities exploring ocean pollution, commercial fishing, sea turtles and more that relate to the important ecosystem that is our ocean.

Continue the journey inside the museum to discover the new exhibit, “The Meaning Behind Maritime,” where community members channeled what maritime means to them.

For more information, call 941708-6120 or visit FloridaMaritimeMuseum.org.

Seniors visit TV station On Friday, May 4, at 10 a.m. Senior Adventures members will take the van from Annie Silver Community Center, 103 23rd St. N., Bradenton Beach, to Channel 7 in Sarasota to get a behind the scenes look at television. They will also have lunch

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Last play of the season The Island Players, at 10009 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria, presents, “An Inspector Calls”

by J.B. Priestley, directed by Heiko Knipfelberg and co-produced by The Off-Stage Ladies, from May 3 -13.

The setting is 1912 in England where a well-to-do family, eminently respected in their community, is subjected to what seems to be routine inquiry in connection with the death of a young woman from the seedier side of town. When Inspector Goole arrives unexpectedly at the Birling family home, their peaceful engagement dinner party is shattered by his investigation. His startling revelations shake the very foundations of their lives and challenge us all to examine our consciences.

“An Inspector Calls” was first staged in 1945 and has had numerous stagings since then. Most recently, after a five-year run in

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TOM VAUGHT | SUN

London, it closed just last year. Its continued success is due to the themes within that are more relevant now than ever. It’s a must see for a whole new generation of theater-goers.

The cast includes Daniel Coppinger as Arthur Birling, Caroline Cox as Sybil Birling, Sylvia Marnie as Sheila Birling, Lucas Piety as Eric Birling, Colin Brady as Gerald Croft, Heiko Knipfelberg as Inspector Goole and Diane Phinney as Edna.

Performances are Tuesday through Saturday at 8 pm and Sunday at 2 pm. Tickets are $20 each. The box office is open from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Mondays through Saturdays.

On performance nights, the box office opens at 7 p.m. and for Sunday matinees, it opens at 1 p.m. Visa, MasterCard or Discover are accepted.

For reservations or information, call the box office at 941 778-5755 or visit the website www.theislandplayers.org

TOM VAUGHT | SUN

Princess Ball SUBMITTED

Earth Day at AME Kindergartners at Anna Maria Elementary School celebrated Earth Day by cleaning the school’s grounds and putting the trash into reusable grocery bags.

Princesses and their dates (dads, grandpas, moms) turned out in force for the Anna Maria Elementary School’s Princess Ball last Thursday, April 26. There were almost double the participants as last year and Chuck Caudill was the deejay. Above, Ernest Clay, from Bradenton Beach, dances with his granddaughter, Mia.

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SPORTS

MAY 2, 2018

Legler Flynn Law locks down the win

BY MONICA SIMPSON SPECIAL TO THE SUN

Taking the field for the second game of the night, Team Legler Flynn, without team captain and versatile player Sean Flynn, pulled out the win of the season against Eric Pullen and Team Acqua Aveda.

Working the field down a player and without their speed and endurance player Scott Eason, Acqua Aveda took a 3-0 lead thanks to shots by team captain Pullen.

Pullen’s first goal came five minutes into the game past goalkeeper Deigo Felipe.

Legler Flynn played strong offensively, keeping the soccer ball on the Acqua Aveda side of the field for most of the first half, but shots taken were stopped with nerves of steel exhibited by one of the league’s top keepers, Jason Sato.

Despite a strong presence at the net, Diego was not able to stop the second missile shot by Pullen three minutes later, moving Acqua Aveda’s lead by two points.

Both teams moved the ball well, but defensive pressure at midfield prevented scoring until one breakaway play by Acqua Aveda that left Pullen all alone for his hat trick shot.

Starting the second half of play with the league seeing the return of Jeff Walker on the field for Acqua Aveda, it is always interesting to see if a team with no one on the bench can keep the pace for the second 20 minutes of play.

After seven minutes ticked off the clock, Legler Flynn’s energy sparked with a goal by Shay Coleman. The Flynnless team scored its second goal one minute later to close the scoring gap to 3-2.

As the game became more exciting and onlookers were on their feet, Christophe LeClainche hit the tying shot with one minute on the scoreboard clock.

On the official’s clock, both teams scrambled on the field with Acqua Aveda working to close out the game

MONICA SIMPSON | SUN

Above, veteran goalie Jason Sato takes the position to protect Acqua Aveda's goal from the strong shot of Legler Flynn's Amy Ivin.

Right, Jeremias Gramajo works to handle the ball for Team Acqua Aveda with Amy Ivin applying the pressure for Team Legler Flynn. in a tie and Legler Flynn fighting to put the winning goal in the net.

With all of her shots blocked for more than 40 minutes, Amy Ivin hit her shot for the go ahead point to finish the head-to-head with Legler Flynn victorious.

SUN SCOREBOARD WEDNESDAY, APRIL 25 YOUTH SOCCER Planet Stone Signarama

1 3

Bins Be Clean Salty Printing

3 2

THURSDAY, APRIL 26 ADULT CO-ED SOCCER Slim’s Place Ross Built

4 2

Legler Flynn Law Acqua Aveda

4 3

Lancaster Design Sato Real Estate

4 0

Mar/Kis Insurance Moss Builders

0 2

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MAY 2, 2018

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Island paddlers medal in Sarasota The Anna Maria Island Dragon Boat Paddlers from Paradise competed in the Sarasota Dragon Boat Festival at Benderson Park on Saturday, April 21. There were 35 dragon boat teams at the festival including teams from Tampa, Miami and Jacksonville. One AMI Paddlers from Paradise women’s team win the bronze medal in the Sport Club division, the highest competitive division. They finished third behind the Tampa Bay Bladies (gold) and Miami Mother Puffers (silver).

Paddlers from Paradise coach Melinda Bradway said it was an incredible achievement for the AMI women’s team to earn the bronze medal at such a highly competitive race.

The AMI Paddlers were Gail Trombley, Mileah Hudgins, Lynn Kravontka, Evelyn Silverthorn, Wanda Raible, Diane Goolsby, Gail McCall, Denise Gardner, Claudette Azevedo, Bonnie Jo Hakala, Sandy Bouwer, Lauri Burton Graham,

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The Anna Maria Island Paddlers From Paradise team that took the bronze in the Sport Club division.

Cerise Jensen, Lori Stuckey, Susan Lee, Vanessa Burns, Lauri Fern, Laura Lambert, Joanne YaconoBrandt and Bradway.

She said the AMI Paddlers from Paradise thank their current sponsors for their support in providing the entry fee for this dragon boat festival. The sponsors are Beach Bums, Harry’s Bar & Grill, How Lucky AMI, TPM Unlimited and

Pookie’s Dragons.

AMI Paddlers are always looking for active men and women who want to be a part of a special community of paddlers. If interested in joining this special AMI family, contact Melinda Bradway at 941462-2626.

CENTER: Finances hold steady FROM PAGE 19

team to help seek out grant opportunities.

With just under a month to go before Weeks bids the Center goodbye, board member Karen Harllee said final interviews are underway to select a new permanent executive director. Out of 172 applicants, the pool was narrowed down to three candidates who made it to in-person interviews with board members and the Center’s hiring committee.

Final interviews are scheduled for this week.

Also beginning this week is registration for the Center’s summer camp programs. Each week has a different theme and features a weekly field trip for

children up to sixth grade and two weekly trips for teens in seventh to 10th grade.

In the kindergarten to sixthgrade camp, children will be able to choose between a sports or crafts elective in the morning and participate in group activities in the afternoon. Camp runs from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. Registration is required by the Tuesday prior to the week of camp the child is attending. The cost is $165 per week or $140 per week for Center annual family members.

A $25 registration fee is applied to new campers. The cost for the teens camp is $100 per week.

Returning specialty camps are drama and sailing camps. Drama camp is a nine-day camp held at

the Island Players Theater July 9-12 and July 16-20. Two public performances will be held July 20. The cost is $240 for both weeks. Children ages 6 to 13 are invited to attend.

Sailing camp takes to the waters of Bimini Bay in two sessions, June 11-14 and June 1821. Campers sail the high seas daily from 9 a.m. to noon. The cost is $175 and ages 8 to 14 are welcome to attend.

For more information on summer camps call the Center at 941-778-1908 or visit www. centerami.org.

Zaccagnino said he anticipates this year to be the busiest summer ever at the Center. “It’s going to be an exciting summer at the Center,” he said.

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MAY 2, 2018

Island daughter a future diva Natalie Almeter is the daughter of Nanette Almeter, owner of Irene’s Resort Wear in Holmes Beach.

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

HOLMES BEACH – Natalie Almeter has always loved music. A few years ago, she sang in front of her mother’s store, Irene’s Resort Wear, during a holiday walk around with her boyfriend who played guitar, and she attracted a group of admirers.

Since then, she has turned her attention to classical music and is studying opera at the University of Central Florida in Orlando.

“I listened to opera, and I really loved it,” she said. “Their voices sing with such power and emotion.”

She did two recitals on April 20 and 22 at St. Joseph’s Catholic

Church to raise money to go to Germany for a month for the German Voice Competition. She’s also known for singing at St. Bernard Catholic Church in Holmes Beach and some St. Bernard people attended the recitals, including Fr. Michael Mullen attended.

“I exceeded my monetary goal, so I won’t have to worry about that," she said.

Almeter said she has a tie to German opera, although she has sung French and Italian, “My family has Bavarian roots,” she said. “My grandfather was in Germany in the military.”

As for the opportunity before her, she said she is very excited.

She thanks her teacher, Beverly Rinaldi, and wants to do her best.

Her mother, Nanette Almeter, credits her daughter for her efforts, and she thinks Natalie is definitely going places.

“She’s going to college full time and had two part-time jobs, but she gave up one job to prepare

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Natalie Almeter will compete in the German Voice Competition this summer . for her trip,” she said. “It’s nice to have a profession, but if you do what you truly want to do, it’s very special.”

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MAY 2, 2018

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Sunshine lawsuit depositions scheduled On Thursday, city commissioners will be asked to approve a resolution requesting that all non-party depositions be made public.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

BRADENTON BEACH – The six defendants in the Sunshine Law lawsuit co-filed by the city of Bradenton Beach and city resident Jack Clarke have been ordered to give their depositions beginning May 23.

According to DictionaryLaw.com, deposition is “The taking and recording of testimony of a witness under oath before a court reporter in a place away from the courtroom before trial.”

Filed with the circuit court last August, the lawsuit alleges Planning and Zoning Board members Reed Mapes, John Metz, Patty Shay and Bill Vincent and Scenic WAVES Committee members Tjet Martin and Rose Vincent violated Florida’s Government-in-the-Sunshine Law. All six defendants resigned from their city positions after the lawsuit was filed.

On Thursday, May 3, the City Com-

mission will discuss a city resolution that addresses Metz’s request that the depositions of all non-party witnesses – those not directly involved in the case – be sequestered.

“John Metz, a defendant, has filed a motion to sequester non-party witnesses during depositions, thereby preventing non-party access to attend and hear the discovery proceedings,” says the resolution drafted by City Attorney Ricinda Perry.

According to Perry, non-party witnesses could include others who attended CNOBB meetings, including the press.

According to Dictionary.Law.com, “A witness may be sequestered from hearing the testimony of other witnesses until after he/she has testified, supposedly to prevent that witness from being influenced by other evidence or tailoring his/her testimony to fit the stories of others.”

The city resolution says, “The City Commission desires to have the discovery proceedings and hearing made open and available to all of the public in accordance with the practice and policies of the city in carrying out the intent and mandates of the Sunshine Law.” If adopted Thursday, the resolution will be presented to Judge Lon Arend prior

to a preliminary hearing scheduled for Wednesday, May 9, at 1:30 p.m.

Metz is the scheduled to give his deposition on May 23, followed by Mapes on May 30, Martin on June 1, Bill and Rose Vincent on June 4 and Shay on June 5.

The defendants’ depositions will be taken at the Lucentes Court Reporters office in Bradenton.

THE LAWSUIT

The lawsuit alleges the defendants held substantial discussions on past and potential future board and committee matters during a Concerned Neighbors of Bradenton Beach (CNOBB) meeting at the Annie Silver Community Center on July 25, 2017.

At that meeting, Mapes initiated discussion on a potential charter amendment that would prohibit the construction of parking garages citywide.

A future application to build a parking garage in Bradenton Beach would likely require preliminary review by the Planning and Zoning Board and this discussion took place outside of a city meeting publicly noticed by the city clerk.

There was also discussion that day about the Community Redevelopment

Agency’s (CRA) updated CRA plan and the CRA district boundaries. In April 2017, the Planning and Zoning Board members reviewed the updated CRA plan that included references to the possibility of a parking garage as a possible future project.

Emails obtained by attorney Robert Watrous and paralegal Michael Barfield after the lawsuit was filed indicated some of the defendants discussed parking garages and CRA matters in email exchanges that preceded the July 25 CNOBB meeting.

The Sunshine Law prohibits commission, board and committee members from discussing matters that have or may come before them via email, telephone, text or in person outside of a properly noticed public meeting.

As a precautionary measure, the current Planning and Zoning Board again reviewed and ratified the updated CRA plan last week. This was done to ensure the plan was not tainted by any actions taken previously by the former board members.

As of April 19, the city’s legal fees in the Sunshine lawsuit totaled $56,219.

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REAL ESTATE

MAY 2, 2018

More people and we’re still growing

W

e’re at the end of our winter season, and as much as I hate to say it, the traffic was worse than ever.

I know everyone says the same thing every year, but they’re correct every year. It is indeed worse and for good reason.

Between July 1, 2016, and July 1, 2017, Manatee County gained an estimated 10,000 more residents according to the U.S. Census data. This makes Manatee County the 44th fastest-growing county in the United Sates between 2010 and 2017.

In addition, we added about 62,700 people during a seven-year period, and they all want to go to our much-publicized beaches.

The estimated population of Manatee County as of July 1, 2017, was 385,571, and there’s more.

The Florida Bureau of Economic and Business Research estimates the 2020 high projected population to be around 405,100, and by 2045 it could go as high as 645,200, and with all of the new development either underway or planned, I believe every one of those numbers. What effect this has on real

Castles in the Sand LOUISE BOLGER estate values in general is almost impossible to predict, but more people need more housing, you do the math.

But this is still 2018, and it’s time for my one million dollar and over analysis of properties sold and listed in, Cortez and the three cities on Anna Maria Island. This time I looked at January, February and March for sold properties and currently available properties for sale or pending as of this writing.

The statistics for closed properties are from the Manatee County Property Appraiser’s Office, and the properties on the market are from the realtor.com website, which generally reflects properties on local multiple listing services. Also, please note

that I use primarily condos and single-family homes in the analysis.

Properties $1 million and over that closed between January and March of this year are as follows: Cortez had one sale at $1,112,500; the previous three-month period had none.

The city of Anna Maria had 11 sales during this period ranging from $4,260,000 to $1,140,000, during the previous period there were nine. The combined cities of Bradenton Beach and Holmes Beach had eight sales between $1,925,000 and $1,000,000; the last three-month period had 11.

Available properties for sale as of this writing are: Cortez has four properties either available or pending between $1,500,000 and $1,100,000; the previous three-month period there were five. The city of Anna Maria has 56 properties either available or pending ranging from $4,995,000 to $1,169,000. During the previous three-month period there were 42. And the combined cities of Bradenton Beach

and Holmes Beach have 70 either available or pending properties between $4,600,000 and $1,000,000. The previous three-months there were 47.

So, what does this snapshot of our coastal market tell us? First of all, it tells us that the number of closed properties is more or less stable. However, the number of available properties, some of which are pending, is up on the island, particularly Holmes Beach and Bradenton Beach, which is way up.

There are certainly closed sales that are not reflected in these numbers, and, hopefully, the next three-month period will reflect more closing as we start to ease out of the winter selling season.

What we do know for sure is more and more people are discovering our little piece of paradise, which will only lead to bigger and bigger traffic jams. I can almost guarantee you that a year from now I will be writing the same thing as I stated in the first paragraph of this column – it’s the worst year for traffic ever, assuming I can get over the Cortez Bridge.

MAY 2, 2018

OBITUARIES Dr. Charles George Liddle Dr. Charles George Liddle passed away peacefully on Anna Maria Island at the age of 82.

Charles is lovingly remembered by his wife of 57 years, Beverly, and his children Robert (and wife Julie), of Raleigh, N.C.; and Paul, of West Palm Beach, Fla. He was predeceased by his son Richard Liddle, and daughter, Sally Liddle Balekomoso. He will be missed by his two grandchildren, Wesslen and Cassidy. Charles was born in Detroit, Mich. He earned his doctorate degree in veterinary medicine from Michigan State University, and a masters degree in radiation biology from the University of Rochester.

Charles also served in the US Public Health service.

Send condolences to RFHR.com.

Valerie Jean Matice Valerie Jean Matice was born in St. Johns, Mich., on Feb. 14, 1949, and passed peacefully on April 12, 2018, in Bradenton. She was preceded in death by her parents, Lad and Jean Bar-

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tholomew; brothers William and Craig Bartholomew; and her son, Joshua Matice. She is survived by her son, Joshua’s children Canaan and Quentin; her son, Zachary Matice, and his wife, Jennie (Makanoff, and children Noah and Ashlee; her daughter, Betsy (Oliver)McMullin, and her husband, Kenneth, and daughter Jenna; her son, Robert Oliver, and his wife, Alyson (Robbins), and children Elle, Jaye and Wesley. She is also survived by her brother Kenneth Bartholomew.

Valerie was not only a mother, but she was a Cub Scout leader, a soccer coach, a mentor, a wise old soul, a straight shooter, and a friend. She was a strong independent woman that lived life by her rules. One of her greatest passions was being an advocate. Whether it was being part of the women’s rights movement in the 70s or working on elderly issues in Manatee County today. For close to 40 years, she was someone who provided support, advice and shelter to numerous people in their time of need on Anna Maria Island. Her greatest loves were her children, grandchildren and, of course, Anna Maria Island.

If you would like to honor Valerie, her wish would be for people to slow down and get on Island time and truly appreciate time spent with family and friends. If you would like to make a

THE SUN

donation please direct any donations to either the American Heart Association or the American Cancer Society in her honor. The family is planning a celebration of life for her in the summer.

Babette Suzanne Moore Babette Suzanne Moore, who resided in Holmes Beach since 2009 died April 5 2018.

Born in Lakeland, Fla., Babette was the daughter of Jan Moore. She is survived by her mother, Jan Moore; brother Kerry Moore; and sister Stephanie Beck. Babette was loved by her brother in law, sister in law, nephews, great nephew and great niece.

Babette spent her working years in the human services field. She was devoted to the residents of Lucy Corr Nursing Home and the participants of Hanover Adult Center, both of Richmond, Va. After moving to AMI, Babette embraced the Island lifestyle that she enjoyed as a child with her grandparents. Brown & Sons Funeral Homes & Crematory, 43rd Street Chapel, 604 43rd St. W., Bradenton, FL 34209 in charge of arrangements. Condolence to www.brownandsonsfuneral.com.

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Margaret A. Mowry Margaret A. Mowry, age 86 of Holmes Beach, Fla., passed away on Sunday, April 22, 2018.

She was born March 13, 1932, in Middlebranch, Ohio to Achillo and Concetta Rainieri. Margaret married her husband, Earl, in January of 1953 and moved to Florida and together they owned and operated Island TV on Anna Maria Island, Holmes Beach, for more than 40 years. Margaret was an active member of St. Bernard Catholic Church in Holmes Beach and its Women’s Guild.

Margaret is survived by her husband, Earl Mowry; sons, Patrick (Becky) Mowry and Richard Mowry, both of Bradenton; grandchildren, Christopher Mowry, Crista Mowry, Denise Mowry, and Jennifer and Christle Mulherin; her siblings, Florence (Tony) DeGirolmo, John (Betty) Rainieri, Joe Rainieri, Veronica Priest, and Nancy Rainieri. She is preceded in death by her son, Dennis Mowry; grandson, Dwight Mowry; and brothers, Michael and Anthony Rainieri.

A funeral Mass was held on Tuesday, May 1, at St. Bernard Catholic Church; 248 S Harbor Dr., Holmes Beach.

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MAY 2, 2018

Alley project completed The drainage improvements seem to be working well, but there were additional costs incurred.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

BRADENTON BEACH – The stormwater, drainage and alley clearing project at the north end of the city has been completed, and the early reviews are positive.

There are however some concerns about additional costs incurred that were not originally included in the city’s contract with Woodruff & Sons.

During the April 25 Capital Improvement Projects (CIP) Committee meeting, City Engineer Lynn Burnett presented the City Commission members, who also serve as CIP members, with three invoices totaling $231,277. The original contact listed a project cost of $208,000.

Burnett said the original scope of work came in $11,794 under budget in terms of the cooperative funding agreement previously reached between the city and the Southwest Florida Water Management District (Swiftmud). That agreement calls for Swiftmud to cover 50 percent of those

agreed upon project costs.

Burnett said Woodruff & Sons had to remove from the alleys in two locations property-owner installed fencing, pool pavers and two Tiki-huts. This resulted in an additional $5,920 cost for the city.

Burnett said the property owners would not remove the items at their own cost and Woodruff & Sons needed them removed to continue with their work.

“The property owners were not able to remove these items themselves due to lack of resources,” said the accompanying agenda document prepared by Burnett.

Burnett did not say who the property owners were or how it was determined that they did not have the resources to remove those items.

While mobilized and on-scene, Woodruff & Sons also completed stormwater improvements for an additional alley located south of 22nd Street North, between Avenue C and Avenue B. “This alley was not part of the original alleys project and is not reimbursable by the district (Swiftmud),” the agenda document says. This means the city is solely responsible for those costs.

Burnett said she would present the invoices for payment at the May 3 City

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

This alley south of 22nd Street North, between Avenue C and Avenue B, in Bradenton Beach was improved at an additional cost of $29,152.

Commission meeting.

When contacted later, Mayor John Chappie was asked if change orders for the additional $29,152 and $5,920 were presented for commission approval before the additional costs incurred. He said including the additional alley was previously discussed and recognized as a need, but never formally approved by the commission.

“I pulled this item off the May 3 agenda to enable us to research the project, the additional work done and the processes in place for approving those additional costs – with clear backup materials and explanation from the city engineer and

Woodruff & Sons on the project and the additional work completed,” Chappie said.

“The good news is we have had a couple of pretty intense rain events and the feedback we received so far from folks is that they certainly saw improvement, and we haven’t had any issues with those properties that back up to those alleys,” Chappie said during last week’s CIP meeting.

“All the neighbors that I’ve spoken to love it. Now you can go through all the alleyways. They think the drainage is really working well. I’ve really heard a lot of positive feedback,” Commissioner Jake Spooner added.

“The other tell-tale sign is the volume of phone calls, emails, complaints and videos that I used to get from property owners living in the north part of Bradenton Beach. I don’t get those anymore. I have seen a definite decrease in the volume of calls from what we used to get years ago,” Burnett told the CIP members.

Additional stormwater and alley improvements between 22nd Street and 26th Street, Gulf Drive and Avenue C are to be included in the city’s 2018-19 fiscal year budget.

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MAY 2, 2018

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ORDINANCE: Customary use jettisoned by commission FROM PAGE 1

to start working on a customary use ordinance to be adopted before that date. Once the state law is enacted, municipalities will no longer be able to declare customary beach use through a local ordinance. They will need a declaration from a circuit court.

On Thursday, April 26, Mayor Dan Murphy recommended the commission forego the customary use ordinance.

After commission discussion and public input, the commissioners voted 4-1 in support of Murphy’s recommendation, with Commissioner Doug Copeland casting the opposition vote.

The public beach areas in question are those seaward of the mean high tide lines or erosion control lines that establish beachfront property lines along Tampa Bay and the Gulf of Mexico.

“For 110 years we’ve all gotten along without this because the mean high line has been the rule of the land.

Yes, from time to time there are some issues, but for the most part people don’t mind people walking by their house. What I would suggest is that we leave what’s been in place and not

embark on ordinance that we probably don’t need because of a few places that are hot spots,” Murphy said.

One such hot spot is Terry and Pat Olesen’s bayfront home on South Bay Boulevard and Terry’s recent confrontations with beach walkers were discussed on April 12.

Murphy said that if needed, the city could prove customary use without a new ordinance.

Commissioner Amy Tripp suggested customary use is a county issue, not a city issue.

Commissioner Carol Carter said she knows at least 14 people who recently moved from Anna Maria, and she’s concerned that adopting a customary use ordinance would drive more fulltime residents away.

Commissioner Brian Seymour agreed and asked Murphy about the beach surveying scheduled for this week.

“We’re having two, possibly three properties surveyed. These are properties where the owners have stated they want to know exactly where the boundaries are,” Murphy said.

The Olesens’ property is among those

that will be surveyed and staked at the city’s expense.

PUBLIC INPUT

Several South Bay Boulevard residents opposed the customary use ordinance and no one spoke in favor of it.

“I don’t think we should change anything. I love having my neighbors walk behind the house and enjoy the beach. Our biggest fear is making changes that will really impact our quiet neighborhood,” Dr. Jose Arbella said.

Arbella owns two beachfront homes.

He lives in the one on South Bay Boulevard, and his children live in the one on North Shore Drive that until recently had about 40 yards of beach.

“Just a few weeks ago my kids lost their beach on North Shore.

The storms completely took their beach away. The water is back to the seawall,” he said of impermanent nature of beachfront property.

“Walking is a wonderful thing, and I’m all for it, but once you start putting bunches of people out there there is no room because there is basically no

beach,” Jack Whiteside said.

“Terry and I really have no problem with people walking as long as they stay by the water. For us, it’s a liability issue and the enjoyment of our property,” Pat Olesen said.

“We don’t use our back deck as much as we could. We just find it too uncomfortable sometimes. People are almost in our face, and if it gets closer, it’s going to be uninhabitable, and we will be one of the residents that leave,” Dr. David Bulley said, “There’s no harm in walking the beach. There is harm when people start to encroach on your space,” Sheila Fusé said.

Ashok Sawe asked why there are so many public access paths leading to residential beaches.

Murphy said they were created before he became mayor.

“The access could be water; it could be beach. It all depends on where the mean high tide is. We need to find that out so we can handle these instances on a one-by-one basis. The new law doesn’t change any of that,” he said.

Call The Best in Buying and Selling Anna Maria Island!

We Get Results!

Charles- 941.228.6086 Gabe- 941.374.5772 Jim- 941.704.6115 Amy- 941.807.2863 Patrick- 813.454.1502

216-R Pine Ave. $739,000

Incredible Location on Pine, 3BD/2BA with Oasis Pool!

Quality Interior Finishes, Great Rental, 2 Porches, Perfect Island Living!

795 Marbury Ln. $1,665,000

Custom Built 4BD/3BA Waterfront Pool Home on LBK Privacy, Fine Details, Deep Water Canal, Intercoastal Views!

303-A 61st St. $897,500

Great Deal 4BD/3.5BA Pool Home! Room for everyone, Excellent Location, Elevator, Rental Income and More!

227 85th St. $649,500

Great Location 3BD/2BA Pool Home, Close to Beach Private Resort Style Backyard, Bonus Rooms, Deeded Boat Slip!

407 Pine Ave. $2,175,000

Brand New Construction, 4BD/4.5BA Pool Home, Study, Rooftop Deck, Fireplaces, Pool Guest House, Prime Location!

4255 Gulf Dr. #227 $339,900

Island Village Condo, Across Street From Beach Large 2BD/2BA, Two Pools, Tennis Court, Excellent Location!

515 Kumquat Dr. $1,795,000

Coastal Beauty on Bimini Bay, 3BD/3BA Pool Home Completely Remodeled, Deep Sailboat Water with Views!

410 Pine Ave. $1,595,000

Waterfront Paradise on Pine, 4BD/3.5BA Pool Home, Excellent Location ,Elevator, Boat Dock, Direct to Bay and Gulf!

305 & 307 42nd St. $1,375,000

Your chance to buy 2 Duplexes, Each on 100x100 lots Community Pool, Steps to Beach, Can be Sold Separately!

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MAY 2, 2018

Historical society awards scholarships The Anna Maria Island Historical Society has awarded $2,000 college scholarships to Olivia Glavan, of Holmes Beach, and Roselyn Ward, of Anna Maria.

Glavan, the daughter of Damir and Johanna Glavan, has been involved in service, scholarship and leadership clubs and organizations at Manatee High School; volunteers weekly at Manatee Memorial Hospital and works the Beach House restaurant. She plans to attend Florida State University to major in biology and obtain a nursing degree.

Ward, the daughter of Alan Ward and Laura Doughty, attends Bradenton Christian School, is an AP scholar, is the youth representative to Roser Church’s Board of Religious Education, volunteers at Blake Medical

1-5 BEDROOMS * CONDOS & HOMES * WEEKLY & MONTHLY FAMILY & PET FRIENDLY

Personalized Property Management!

TOM VAUGHT | SUN

From left, Olivia Glavan and Roselyn Ward show the scholarship awards presented

by Anna Maria Island Historical Society President Lynn Brennan.

Center, was selected as a Teen Health Educator for Manatee County’s Healthy Teens Coalition and works at Publix. She plans

to attend Wheaton College in Illinois, major in biology and then attend medical school and become a surgeon.

“Dear Coastal Cottages AMI team, Thank you all for everything you do for us!”

Happy Homeowner of 4 properties on AMI

Eyes on fashion Sandra Budnick models an outfit at the Anna Maria Garden Club’s annual luncheon and fashion show at Roser Memorial Community Church on Wednesday April 18. Irene’s Resort Wear in Holmes Beach supplied the fashions. Proceeds go to the Garden Club’s efforts to promote gardening around the Island.

941-567-6253

C O A S TA L C OT TA G E S A M I . C O M

TOM VAUGHT | SUN

MAY 2, 2018

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New government on city agenda Holmes Beach commissioners won’t have much longer to wait to find out what form of government committee members will recommend. Commissioner Judy Titsworth said she wants to get the city’s form of government committee member presentation on a work session agenda as soon as possible, potentially May 24.

She said committee members seem to be favoring suggesting a city manager form of government over the current council/ strong mayor configuration. Titsworth is eager to hear the presentation partially in

order to let staff understand how commissioners feel on the issue.

Part of the committee’s recommendation is to do away with the city administration’s charter positions, excluding the city attorney, and give employees in those positions a one-year contract to prove themselves to the new city manager.

Charter positions include the city clerk, building official, city treasurer and police chief. If commissioners choose to adopt the recommendation it will require a change to the city charter.

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FUN IN THE SUN

Across 1 Dull 6 "Stronger than dirt" cleanser 10 PCs' "brains" 14 Backspace over 15 Try to throw, at a rodeo 16 Tall concert instrument 17 Solar power, e.g.

20 Animal that sounds dull 21 Those opposed 22 Simplifies 23 Charged particle 25 Gender problem 26 Soul mate 33 Humiliate 34 Grand-scale poetry 35 It's right on the map 38 Slo-mo reviewer 39 Inning with a stretch 42 "Michael Collins" actor Stephen 43 Any of three 10thcentury Holy Roman Emperors 45 Jazzman Jackson 46 Caravan stops 48 Heavy military barrage 51 Exact revenge on 52 Big lug 53 Letters after thetas 56 Until next time, in texts 59 Slanted page?

63 Common transmission feature 66 Sportswear brand 67 Lawman played by Russell and Costner 68 Ill-fated Ford 69 Lady Gaga's "Cheek

to Cheek" duettist Bennett 70 Helpful hints 71 Virtual transaction Down 1 Chef's flavoring 2 Double Delight cookie 3 Tennis great Mandlikova 4 Password partners 5 Litter cry 6 "SOS" band 7 Month with fireworks 8 Blackjack components 9 Vintage Jag 10 Inexpensive brand 11 Golf targets 12 Try to convince 13 1974 Gould/ Sutherland CIA spoof 18 "Worst Cooks in America" judge Burrell 19 Within walking distance 24 Mine extractions 25 Main idea 26 Syrup brand since 1902 27 Skeptical words 28 Tripartite commerce Answers to 04-25-18 Crossword Puzzle.

pact 29 Underworld boss?

30 Be in a bee 31 Florence's __ Vecchio 32 Foot bones 36 Lifeline reader 37 Overpower with a shock 40 Give off 41 Boxer Oscar De La __ 44 Fine cotton fabric 47 Provides with, as an opportunity 49 Trial 50 Hot streak 53 "__ ain't broke ... " 54 Minestrone pasta 55 Snagglepuss, e.g.

56 Bangkok native 57 Maryland athlete, for short 58 Slangy affirmatives 60 Tuscan tower site 61 First name in stunts 62 Proofreader's "drop this" 64 Just out of the pool 65 Dead end?

MAY 2, 2018

MAY 2, 2018

CLASSIFIED

ANNOUNCEMENTS

AUTHORITY ONE SERVICES. Residential/ Commercial/Vacation Rentals & Construction Cleaning. Also Power Washing, Windows, Paver Sealing & Roof Cleaning. Ask about your Senior Citizens Discount Call 941-2515948 or 941-565-3931

BEACH YOGA ON Saturdays & Sundays at 8:30am at the end of Pine Ave by the Sandbar Restaurant by donation. www.thriveyogafit.com THE BEST VOLUNTEER position on the island. The AMI Historical Museum needs docents and bread makers. Call Lynn at 813758-3234 or lbrennan47@ gmail.com ROSER FOOD BANK needs donations of cash and non-perishable food. Donations boxes are located at the Church, Moose Club, and Walgreen’s.

BABY SITTER RED CROSS CERTIFIED baby sitter. Honor student.

Call or text Isabel 941-5457995

BOATS: SALES & RENTALS BOATS ARE SELLING Very Well.

Islandboatsales. net We Buy and Sell Boats. “Business On A Hand Shake” IslandsBradenton-Sarasota Dave- Owner 941-2283489

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

CLEANING SERVICE TOTAL HOME SERVICE CLEANING : Residential, Commercial & Rentals.

Professional and Reliable. Call 941-7564570 THOMPSON CLEANING SERVICE CommercialResidential-Marine.

Island Based Company.

Seasonal Deep CleaningWeekly-Occasional. Call for Free Estimate. 317908-9483

Call us today! 941-778-3986

COMMERCIAL SALES

RESORTS: Bradenton Beach 13 units $4,999,000.

WAREHOUSE 9300 Sq. Ft. Machine Shop with heavy duty elect or Car Storage, So Many Possibilities. Near SRQ Airport $595,000 Island Real Estate Ask Alan Galletto 941-2322216

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

HELP WANTED 3 POSITIONS AVAILABLE. Full time night cashier, part time nightcashier/cashier assistant. Part time Deli position. Please apply in person at Jessie's Island Store 5424 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. See Jimmy or April for more details.

LOOKING FOR PART TIME Summer Camp Counselors for Elementary School Age Campers. Send resumes to Will@centerami.org NEED FULL TIME reliable, clean, drug free dishwasher for night shift.

Pay negotiable depending on experience. Harry's Grill.

Call 863-244-7745

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

HAULING SITE CLEAN-UP to trash outs we can handle it all.

Call us for your dumpsters/ trash needs today 941-7538772

HOME IMPROVEMENTS TILE! TILE! TILE! All variations of tile supplied and installed.

Quality workmanship.

Prompt, reliable, many Island references. Free estimates. Neil 941726-3077 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 941-778-1115 www. kernconstructioninc.com WALY PRECISION PAINTING: painting, drywall, stucco, and remodeling, commercial/ residential, licensed & insured. Call 941-448-1928 or 941-465-6324 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.

FOR SALE NICHE IN ROSE GARDEN of Local Church. Call 941795-2081

FENCING, CAN'T GET ANYBODY? Wood, Vinyl.

New or Repair. Call Richard. Free Estimates.

941-448-3571 Bespoke Services.

THE SUN

LIGHTHOUSE PROPERTY INNOVATIONS LLC State Certified General Contractor (Lic. #CGC 1515821) New Construction, Renovations & Additions. Call 941-2667500

LANDSCAPING & LAWN CARE

R. GAROFALO’S Interlocking brick pavers, driveways, patios, pool decks. Free estimates. Licensed & Insured. Call Rafael 941778-4823 or Veronik 941526-7941 SHELL DELIVERED AND spread $55/yd. Hauling all kinds of gravel, mulch, top soil with free estimates. Call Larry at 941-795-7775, "shell phone" 941-720-0770 STRAIGHT SHOT LANDSCAPE. Specializing in Old Florida Seashell driveways and scapes. Also Rock, Mulch, & Soil. Free estimates. Call Shark Mark 941-301-6067

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE: NORMS TOWING gives Notice of Foreclosure of Lien and intent to sell these vehicles on 05/23/2018, 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.

1FAFP4041YF158278 2000 FORD 1HGCM66844A037197 2004 HONDA 1M9SD30366S567753 2006 MONTONE MFG. CO 2FTRX17L31CA75455 2001 FORD 2MEFM74W0YX720190 2000 MERCURY 5J6YH2H77AL006686 2010 HONDA

LOST & FOUND LOST THICK STERLING Silver Ring between the Moose and Beach House Restaurant. Call 941-2431444 LOST I-PHONE 8 Plus on Cortez to Gulf Dr to Holmes Beach. LifeProof Greenish Case. Call 224545-4274

FITBIT LOST THURSDAY February 22 on Bradenton Beach near Sandpiper heading south. Wristband is Plum color. Call 440901-8586.

MOVING & STORAGE MARTIN’S MOVING YOUR Island movers!

Offering dependable, competitive rates. No hidden costs. 941-8095777.

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

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

941-812-0507 “WIZARD OF WALLS” Established 1980 Prompt quality service.

Paperhanging/removal Faux finishes. Interior painting. Mary Bell Winegarden 941-7940455 PROFESSIONAL PAINTING SERVICES. Prompt & Reliable.

Island Resident. 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 941705-7096

POOL SERVICES FOUR SEASONS POOL SERVICE. AMI & West Bradenton. Certified Pool Operator.

Residential/commercial.

Chemical Service Licensed & Insured. Call Dennis Clark 941-7375657

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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

PROFESSIONAL PRESSURE & WINDOW WASHING AUTHORITY ONE CLEANING : Residential, Commercial, Construction and Vacation Rentals .

Also available Power Washing, Roof Cleaning and Windows. Call 941251-5948

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 941-2543330 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 Beach - Key Royale GULF FRONT CONDOS Gulf Place, L’Plage, Vista Grande & MORE. Island Real Estate ASK Alan Galletto 941-232-2216

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REAL ESTATE HOMES & CONDOS FOR SALE INVESTOR'S DREAM and only 4 houses from the beach, adorable 2BR/2BA beach cottage in the North End for $629,000. Call Kathleen White Island Real Estate at 941-773-0165.

AnnaMariaSales.com

REAL ESTATE: OPEN HOUSE OPEN HOUSE 3BR/3BA 2 car garage, canal, pool, dock, lift 3807 Royal Palm Dr. San Remo Shores, Saturday & Sunday. 1-4PM Call 941705-9969

Call us today! 941-778-3986

RENTALS: ANNUAL

3BR/2.5BA TOWNHOUSE CONDO, 1450 s/f on 2 floors.

2 pools, private beach access. Furnished or unfurnished. Washer / Dryer. Screened lanai & 1 car garage. Water, sewer, trash, basic cable, pest control included.

Background & credit required. $2800/mo. $2800 security. First, last & security Longboat Key. EXECUTIVE LEVEL LUXURY 2BR/2BA Condo at River Dance.

Spacious waterfront home. Granite counters, crown moldings, split bedroom plan, elegant tile floors, soaking tub!

Downstairs private theater / media room can be reserved for movies. Workout facility, business center, social room, pool table. Pickle ball, tennis, basketball courts, putting green.

Live in exciting Riverfront Downtown community.

Breathtaking views Manatee River and Green Bridge. Near "Downtown District", Manatee Performing Arts Center, Old Main Street, new shops/ restaurants, Downtown Live music Series, Saturday Farmers Market , River Walk & splash park, skate park. Water, sewer, trash & basic cable included $2800/ mo. $2800 security. First, last & security. 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 – 941-345-1295 Island Real Estate of Anna Maria Island, Inc. ONE BLOCK TO BEACH 2BR/1BA new appliances, gas stove, washer/dryer, attached garage. $1700/mo Ground floor Call 941-580-5747 or 386-451-5530 3BR/2BA HOME less than 2 blocks to the bay and beautiful beaches of Anna Maria Island.

Central Air, New tile thru out, updated kitchen and bath, nice private yard with workshop/ shed. $3000/mo. Call 708-268-4530 for more information.

1BR FULLY FURNISHED. Pool, Condo all utilities and fees. Beach access one block from beach. $1500/ mo. Annual Lease. Call 941-778-1915 ANNUAL: HOUSE FOR RENT City of Anna Maria.

3BR/3BA canal front home.

Spacious & Bright on Oak Ave. $3000/mo Available June 1. Call 941-321-5454 ANNUAL FURNISHED 1BR/1BA washer/dryer 2 blocks to beach $1000/mo.

No pets 941-778-1254 RENTALS: SEASONAL & VACATION

MAY 2, 2018

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

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 941-7780426 kringco@tampabay. rr.com GREAT RATES! Weekly, Monthly. 3BR/2BA NW Bradenton. Call Grace 941-201-2190 HOLMES BEACH 1.5 BLOCKS to Beach.

Completely updated 2BR/2BA. Available October 2018 to April 1, 2019. $4500/mo Nelson & Associates Real Estate.

Call 863-640-1864

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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MAY 9, 2018

BUSINESS & SERVICE DIRECTORY COMPUTER SERVICE

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

HAULING

PAINTING

HOME IMPROVEMENT

TRANSPORTATION HOME SITTING / PET SITTING

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MAY 2, 2018