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VOL 16 No. 29
May 18, 2016
Pier funding offers tendered On May 26, the commission will vote on whether to accept the pier funding offers and stipulations. BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun
ANNA MARIA – Anna Maria City Pier tenant Mario Schoenfelder and Manatee County officials have presented scenarios in which they would help pay for the rehabilitation of the Anna Maria City Pier; but the offers come with caveats and conditions.
Anna Maria Mayor Dan Murphy provided City Commissioners with these details during the May 12 meeting. Commissioners were previously provided with a copy of a letter Schoenfelder sent Murphy on May 6. “We have identified a $2 million problem based upon the study that we have. We have a $1.7 million project and then the associated costs with that study, getting permits and other things. To that end, the TDC (Tourist Development Council) has informally, not formally, agreed to a $1 million matching fund.
Through the use of grants, concession fund money and other sources we can come up with another half-million dollars. That leaves us with a half-million dollar problem,” Murphy said. He recapped a recent meeting he had with Schoenfelder and the letter in which Schoenfelder presented his offers in writing. Schoenfelder owns The City Pier Restaurant, gift shop and bait sales businesses that operate in leased see pier, page 42
Anna Marie Hayden | submitted
Although lovely at night, the Anna Maria City Pier, when examined in daylight, is in need of repairs.
Johnson to seek second term Commissioners Judy Titsworth and Marvin Grossman have said they also plan to run again. BY PAT COPELAND SUN STAFF WRITER | pcopeland@amisun.com
HOLMES BEACH – Mayor Bob Johnson has announced that he plans to run for a second two-year term. “I feel good,” Johnson said. “Everything is positive right now.” When Johnson came into office two years
INSIDE NEWS OPINION Sun survey outdoors town crier sports REAL ESTATE Classified
4 6 7 26-27 28 34-35 38-43 45-47
ago, the city was undergoing a number of changes, and Johnson said his first objective was stability and capacity. “Things had been up and down, especially in the building department,” he explained. Johnson “The city was going from sleepy town to busy town, and we needed to get the right capacity and quality in staffing. “We did that in two critical places – building and code enforcement – by bringing in experienced qualified people see johnson, page 40
Shape up with a personal trainer. 14
Anna Maria Island, Florida
CVB promotion irks Bolts’ fans Fan reaction to the towels that supported the Lightning’s playoff opponents included a call for a boycott of the greater Bradenton area. BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
BRADENTON – The folks at the Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau (CVB) were hit with a bolt of criticism from Tampa Bay Lighting fans over the weekend.
The criticism stemmed from advertising the CVB placed on rally towels that expressed support for the Pittsburgh Penguins hockey team. The towels were given to those who attended Game 1 of the National Hockey League eastern conference finals game Friday night, May 13; a game in which the visiting Lightning defeated the Penguins 3-1. The towels carried the message, “Lets Go Pens!” and featured the CVB logo and the words “Bradenton,” see CVB, page 43
Perico preserve OPENS TO THE PUBLIC. 32
CORTEZ CULTURAL Center features history. 33
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Waterline to go vertical in June Waterline, near the intersection of Marina and Gulf drives, will be the Island’s first full service hotel. BY PAT COPELAND
We’re looking forward to an
SUN STAFF WRITER | pcopeland@amisun.com
HOLMES BEACH – Building Official Jim McGuinness reported on progress at the Waterline development at last week’s City Commission meeting. “They were able to successfully remove the existing foundations from the ground, crushed them and will use them for parking lot base,” he said. “The only parts of the old foundation that remain are the parts that will be used in the new construction.” He said a live power line and water line were relocated and the site is being prepared for building pads. The piles will be installed next week and take approximately five days. “They’re scheduled to start going vertical the first week in June,” he continued. “We’re working with the developer to make sure the impact to the city as to truck traffic and other things is as minimal as possible.”
excellent project.” Jim McGuinness Building official
Mainsail Lodging and Development | SUbmitted
A master bedroom in one of the units at the Waterline development will overlook the marina.
He said the floors are precast, which means there won’t be concrete trucks coming onto the site. They will be cast off site and brought in. “We’re looking forward to an excellent project.”
Waterline, located near the intersection of Marina and Gulf drives, will be the Island’s first full service hotel. Mainsail Lodging and Development, of Tampa, is developing it. Mainsail partner and Vice President
Brian Check said, “We have released the design team to produce photo realistic images for the city and to post on the site so people can get a sense for how it will look.” The project includes a lodge that will feature two-bedroom suites with gourmet kitchens, an 80-seat restaurant and meeting rooms; a second building with two-bedroom lodging units and a 50-boat slip marina with day slips for guests. The company also owns the Tidemark Shoppes center adjacent to Waterline and the Mainsail Beach Inn at 101 66th Street.
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ISLAND NEWS
in brief
The Center to hold volunteer orientation In response to feedback from a recent Town Hall meeting, The Center of Anna Maria Island will host a Volunteer Orientation on Wednesday, May 25, with two time slots available, 12 to 1 p.m. and 6 to 7 p.m. Executive Director Kristen Lessig will share the vision for The Center and it’s volunteer army, as well as upcoming volunteer opportunities, and allow time for questions and completion of paperwork. There is an immediate need for Mr. Fix-Its, and a new system has been initiated at the front desk whereby a running list of fix-it items are updated weekly. Anyone with a few hours to spare can stop by and find a project. The Center will be tracking volunteer hours and hosting an annual appreciation event recognizing those that have made a significant impact. For more information, contact Lessig at 941-7781908 or kristenl@centerami.org
The Queen still hides The elusive Queen of Hearts remains in hiding for at least another week. During the weekly drawing that took place at Anna Maria Island Moose Lodge in Bradenton Beach on Wednesday, May 11, Ron Wabby selected envelope #49 and drew a two of diamonds. Although he did not take home the jackpot worth approximately $70,000, Wabby walked away with a $1,000 consolation prize. A total of $8,000 in door prizes and raffle prizes were given out. At least half of the 54 playing cards contained in numbered and sealed envelopes have now been opened since this particular Queen of Hearts drawing began; and with each passing the week the odds of drawing the Queen get better. The next drawing will take place Wednesday May 18, at 8 p.m. You must have a nationally-issued Moose membership card to purchase drawing tickets. Those who gather for the weekly drawings are reminded not to park in nearby parking lots that belong to other businesses or residences. Those who do run the risk of being towed.
Board to consider boat covers Resident Lance Spotts asked Holmes Beach city commissioners to consider allowing coverings, such as canopies, for boats. City Attorney Patricia Petruff said boat covers fell out of favor years ago when the Florida Department of Environmental Protection refused to permit them due to concerns about shading seagrass and hurricane winds. Commissioner Pat Morton said it would be advantageous to have one for the city’s boat that will be docked at the 63rd Street ramp. Commissioners agreed to discuss the request at a future work session.
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MAY 18, 2016
Skimmers found at Citgo
BY TOM VAUGHT SUN STAFF WRITER tvaught@amisun.com
Holmes Beach Police were called to the Citgo store, at 3015 Gulf Drive, on Monday, May 10, after a state inspector found a credit card skimmer at pump #1. Skimmers are used to record credit card numbers of people using the cards to pay for fuel at the pump. The store’s owner said that the pump had not been working correctly on Saturday, May 7, so he placed a cash only sign on the pump. The owner also found that the door to pump #5 was open when he opened the store on May 10. Holmes Beach Detective, Sgt. Brian Hall said that might indicate that a skimmer had been placed in pump #5 and the criminal that placed it there had retrieved it. Hall said he took the skimmer they found to the crime lab to check for DNA and fingerprints. Since the original report, two additional skimmers have been recovered from the gas pumps. The suspects returned on May 10 around 9:10 p.m. driving a brown Ford Excursion.
HOLMES BEACH POLICE | SUBMITTED
This is a person of interest that police believe was in a vehicle driven by skimmer users when they tried to retrieve one of the devices. Anyone with information is asked to call Holmes Beach Detective Sgt. Brian Hall at 778-COPS (2577). The same truck returned on May 13 around 8:26 p.m. and pulled up to pump #5. One of the suspects entered the store and was captured on the store’s security video, Police Chief Bill Tokajer said in a press release. The video has been recovered from the three incidents. In the first incident, the suspect vehicle was a newer dark SUV. In the second and third incident
it was an early 2000 model Ford Excursion. One of the suspects is a white or Hispanic male with multiple tattoos on both arms, possibly 25 years old. If anyone finds that their credit cards or bank accounts were compromised after using the credit card reader at the pumps, they are asked to contact Detective Sergeant Brian Hall at 941-778-COPS.
Mayor trying to adapt to limited role The mayor’s spending limit will now be discussed. BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
BRADENTON BEACH – In an effort to work within the confines of a new ordinance that clarifies the mayor’s limited role as a weak mayor, Mayor Bill Shearon has provided some suggestions to city department heads. On May 7, Shearon sent an e-mail to the department heads, charter officials, senior staffers and city commission members. “With commission's recent decision that department heads are supervised by the commission in public meetings, as mayor I have limited responsibilities nor authority regarding private contractors or assisting you as a department head. I request your assistance
joe hendricks | sun
In addition to his reduced supervisory authority, Mayor Bill Shearon’s may also see his discretionary spending limit lowered. in my administrative oversight responsibilities,” he wrote. “For accountability I strongly suggest the following: • Use of professional service
contractors be within your department budget and spending authority. I recommend the use of the see mayor, page 41
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Franchises come under fire in Holmes Beach Commissioners asked the city attorney to research ordinances in other cities for ideas to limit franchises. BY PAT COPELAND SUN STAFF WRITER | pcopeland@amisun.com
HOLMES BEACH – Franchises came under fire at the City Commission meeting last week after commissioners learned that Dunkin Donuts and Baskin Robbins were planning to come to the Anna Maria Island Centre. “These two will do damage to others in the city and especially in the shopping center,” Commissioner Pat Morton claimed. “Is there some way we can we limit it? “We need to put something in to stop this. We’re losing our Island as it is. They have no concern as to what our Island is like.” The two businesses came to the city’s attention when signs appeared in the windows, and the mayor learned that while there is a building permit application, it has not been reviewed by the city. Code Enforcement Officer James Thomas investigated and said, “What we saw from the window is that demolition
Tom vaught | Sun
The final approval for this Smoothie King in the Anna Maria Island Centre is pending in the Holmes Beach Building Department. started. I put a red tag on it until I talk to the owners. It is not a stop work order; it’s a notice to call me so I can look at it. “We want to know what they are doing and if the people working are properly licensed. We have to make sure it meets the provisions of the code. They have to get a building permit and a business tax receipt.”
Commissioners float ideas
Commissioners asked City Attorney Patricia Petruff for ideas on addressing the issue. Petruff said the only ordinances that she is aware of that have success are ones that prohibit big box stores in order to preserve downtowns in small cities. “My gut is telling me it would be difficult to do,” she said. “Sometimes you
Dear Summer,
can incentivize things. I’ll look around and invite you to do the same. “The trick will be to find an ordinance that has been adopted somewhere that has withstood scrutiny, that has been upheld by a court.” Morton asked if the town of Longboat Key bans franchises. Petruff later learned that the town does not, but it bans drive-throughs for restaurants. Commissioner Carol Soustek suggested limiting the number of licenses issued for one type of business such as ice cream stores and added, “Part of the ambiance of the Island is the mom and pops.” Restaurateur Sean Murphy, who was at the meeting regarding another issue, said, “There are two ways that different communities have tried to limit chains. One is that possession of ownership has to be a local. “Another is that one of the things chains do is everything is processed and comes in a bag. They do not build any food on premises. As a matter or public protection you could say that 75 percent of the food production has to be done on premise.” Following the meeting, Petruff sent commissioners samples of ordinances from Coronado, Malibu and Sonoma, all in California, to read.
Can we just chill? Sincerely, your a/c
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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 18, 2016
EDITORIAL A RELAY OF HOPE
T
he weather was perfect last Saturday for the Relay fforLife at Coquina Beach. Those attending were there for a number of reasons. Some were cancer survivors, some had relatives or loved ones who were afflicted with cancer and others are battling the disease. Cancer has been with us for as long as we can remember, and advances in medical research and technology are making some forms of cancer less dangerous than they were previously. Every time you write check or pull a bill out of your pocket to give to the fight against cancer, we get closer to eliminating this horrible disease. hen a doctor tells a patient he or she has cancer, it's a defining moment in their lives. To lead a fairly healthy life and then be told you are facing a possibly deadly disease changes your outlook on life. Waking up every morning is not a given, and you realize it could all end soon. Many of the people attending the Relay for Life have faced that, and it buoys their spirits when they mingle with others who are facing the same fate.The relay brings everyone together to share their experiences, to share their dreams and to express their feelings as victims, survivors and friends. e hope the Relay for Life sticks around for as long as it is needed, and we hope it won't be needed indefinitely. Next year, come on out to see what they are doing. Bring money and march with them. These are people who are fighting for their lives and the lives of other and the money they collect feeds the medical research that is so necessary. You may never feel what they feel, fear what they fear and have the needs that they have. We need to support the Relay because in addition to providing a source of income to cancer research, it also provides them with the assurance that they are not alone in their situation; that others know how they feel and that they care.
W
W
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Signs save lives were all outsiders. My wife and I
I read with interest the letter from Mr. and Mrs. Knisely regarding their dislike for the street signs on the beach. I am an eight-year resident of Anna Maria, and I too was disappointed when I first saw the signs. I hated to see the natural beauty disturbed. I quickly remembered, however, back to a tragic incident about 18 months ago when an elderly man collapsed in the Gulf. Several of us dragged the man out and one of our party called 911. We were all giving different locations to EMS. One of our locals referred to the site as Tuna Beach; another said Cypress; and I would have said Jacaranda (which turns into Cypress). Fortunately, my wife was able to run up to North Shore and direct the EMTs to our location without any delay. I find the Kniselys’ logic that people should remember the color of the two houses they accessed between somewhat hollow. I can’t ever remember noting the two houses I passed and remembering them in case of an emergency. Regardless, that would not have been enough to guide EMS in the event of an emergency. The Kniselys’ comments about outsiders finding the island is rather parochial. At some time we
waited almost 40 years before we could afford to purchase a home in Anna Maria. While we don’t like the additional traffic and congestion since we moved here, we remember we were also daytrippers or weekly visitors, and don’t begrudge these folks a respite on our beautiful island. Remember, tourists are the ones who help get us our beach replenishment as well as help keep our great restaurants and businesses flourishing, and in turn, keep our taxes lower. We hope everybody will keep an open mind when the powers that be take some steps to protect everyone on the beach. We may not agree with everything the local government does, but the street sign issue is one that, while not the prettiest, serves a noble purpose. Sam and Jo Morton Anna Maria
A bike rider's view This e-mail was sent to the Holmes Beach police chief: I am a daily runner and also ride my bike frequently. Years ago, I used to run and ride with traffic because it was the law. Ever since texting has become a preferred method of communication, I began to run and ride against traffic.
Take The Sun Survey on Page 7. The reasons for my change in habits was to protect myself. When running or riding down Gulf/ Palm drives, I frequently notice approaching cars veering into the bike lane, and I quickly dart out of their way. Most of these drivers are focused on a hand-held device. I suspect that the slower traffic speed on a two-lane Island road is more tempting to texters than a fast moving expressway. Nevertheless, I have found that the best way to protect myself when running or riding is to be proactive in watching for errant drivers, which can only be done by moving against traffic. Please consider this safety necessity as you look to enforce laws that were originally designed to protect us. Jeannie Hudkins Holmes Beach
Your thoughts?
Got an opinion, a complaint or a compliment? Is there something you need to get off your chest? Send us a letter to the editor and have your say. There are several ways to doit. Visit our website at www.amisun.com and click on the “contact us” link at the top of the home page. Or, e-mail The Sun directly at news@amisun.com. You can mail a letter to us at The Anna Maria Island Sun, Island Sun Plaza, P.O. Box 1189, Anna Maria, FL 34216. Letters should be kept to 300 words or less and must contain your name and the city in which you reside. Personal attacks and obscene language will not be printed. Letters also may be edited for length and content.
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the sun survey
on the agenda
PREVIOUS QUESTION: What is your opinion of the proposal to redefine mayoral duties in the city of Bradenton Beach?
Anna Maria
77%
It's a good idea and about time the mayor's duties were clearly established.
10005 Gulf Drive
5/26: City Commission meeting, 6 p.m. For information, call 7086130.
Bradenton Beach 107 Gulf Drive N.
5/18: Planning and Zoning Board, 1 p.m. 5/19: City Commission meeting, noon. 5/24: Special master hearing, 10 a.m. 5/24: City Commission work session, 1 p.m. For information, call 7781005.
Holmes Beach
7
5/24: City Commission meeting, 7 p.m. 5/26: City Commission work session, 7 p.m. For information, call 7085800.
Island-wide
5/18: Coalition of Barrier Island Elected Officials, Longboat Key Town Hall, 501 Bay Isles Road, 2 p.m. 5/19: West Manatee Fire Commission meeting, 6 p.m., 6417 3rd Ave. W., Bradenton. 5/26: West Manatee Fire Commission pubic hearing to set fire assessment rates for 2015-16, 6 p.m., 6417 3rd Ave. W., Bradenton.
5801 Marina Drive
mark your calendar
15%
I don't like it. It seems like they are changing the rules after the election.
THIS WEEK’S SURVEY The Holmes Beach beautification board has transformed the traffic islands at the city’s entrance with decorative rocks, boulders and a few plants. The new islands:
9%
Not sure. Maybe they should play a round of Texas Hold 'Em to settle the matter.
• Are stark and cold and unwelcoming. • Are clean and simple and a great look. • Are a good start, but need more plants to soften the look. • Should be filed with cement and plants painted on.
To vote, go to www.amisun.com or scan this code to vote by smartphone. LIKE us on our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/AnnaMariaIslandSun View The Sun’s online edition at www.issuu.com/AnnaMariaIslandSun
Publishers Mike Field Maggie Field Editor/CEO Mike Field Layout Ricardo Fonseca Reporters Pat Copeland Cindy Lane
Tom Vaught Joe Hendricks
Ad assistant Chris Boniberger
Accounting John Reitz
Columnists Louise Bolger
Classified ads Bob Alexander
Outdoors editor Rusty Chinnis
Graphics Elaine Stroili Ricardo Fonseca
Distribution Bob Alexander Keith Isner Tony McNulty
Ad director Chantelle Lewin
Web/Social media Jocelyn V. Greene Cindy Lane
Contributors Steve Borggren Tom Breiter Monica Simpson
Note: Events are free unless indicated.
Wednesday May 18
Chair yoga, Anna Maria Island Art League, 5312 Holmes Blvd., Holmes Beach, noon to 12:45 p.m. $10. Register to ArtLeagueAMI@ gmail.com or 941-778-2099.
Thursday May 19
Friends of the Island Branch Library Book Club, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m. Aerobics for Seniors, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, 11 a.m. Successful Women Aligning Together, Bridge Street Bistro, 111 Gulf Drive, Bradenton Beach, 11:45 a.m. to 1:15 p.m. Members, $12, guests, $17. RSVP to swatami@gmail.com Knitting/crochet group, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2 p.m.
Friday May 20
Bridge beginners/refresher course, Aging in Paradise Resource Center, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, 2nd Floor, Longboat Key, 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. $10, snacks included. RSVP to maryannbrady@aginginparadise.org or 941-383-6493.
Saturday May 21
Meditation, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 11 a.m. Sumi ink painting for families, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 3 p.m.
Sunday May 22
Beach Market, Coquina Beach, Bradenton Beach, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Monday May 23
Lunch and Learn, session on how to Age Well and in the Right Place, Aging in Paradise Resource Center, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, 2nd Floor, Longboat Key, 11:30 a.m. to 1:15 p.m. $10, lunch included. RSVP to maryannbrady@aginginparadise.org or 941-383-6493. Social bridge games, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, noon. Sunset full moon paddle, Robinson Preserve, 99th Street Northwest and 17th Avenue Northwest, Bradenton. Register to 941-7425757, ext. 7.
Tuesday May 24
Learn about micro irrigation for lawns, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 1:30 p.m. SEE CALENDAR, PAGE 29
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MAY 18, 2016
Occupancy rehearing requested The plaintiffs want the judge to reconsider his previous ruling. BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
ANNA MARIA – The attorney representing the plaintiffs in a recent vacation rental occupancy lawsuit has filed a motion for rehearing. The motion pertains to a ruling handed down by Judge Gilbert Smith Jr. in April that upheld the occupancy restrictions contained in the city of Anna Maria’s vacation rental ordinance. A previous attempt to file the motion was delayed because the final summary judgement order had not yet been signed. The motion was filed on May 10, on behalf of Florida Gulf Coast Vacation Homes doing business as Anna Maria Vacations. The motion requests that
Smith reconsider his previous ruling and conduct another hearing. It is up to Smith to decide if he wishes to rehear the case. As of Monday, no rehearing date had been scheduled. If he decides not to rehear the case, the plaintiffs still have the option of filing an appeal with the Second District Court of Appeal in Lakeland. In April, attorney Randolph Smith unsuccessfully argued that occupancy limits are an attempt to prohibit vacation rentals. His argument was based on state law that prevents local municipalities from prohibiting vacation rentals or limiting the frequency and duration of rental. The motion for rehearing is based on the attorney’s belief that the judge failed to consider the argument that the term “prohibit vacation rentals” is ambiguous. “As a consequence, the court did not consider principles of statutory
construction to ascertain legislative intent as to the meaning of the term. Most importantly, the court did not consider the definition of ‘prohibit’ in Black’s Law Dictionary, did not consider the legislative history of Florida Statute 509.032 and did not consider Attorney General Pam Bondi’s opinion addressing the statute. Rather the court merely ruled that the ordinance does not prohibit vacation rentals that have been historically rented to more guests than is permitted under the occupancy restrictions set forth in the ordinance,” the motion states. “It appears then that the court’s upholding of the ordinance is founded on its interpretation that the ordinance does not prohibit vacation rentals because it does not ban them in their entirety. However, plaintiff would respectfully suggest that there is another entirely reasonable interpretation – a limitation on the number of persons who may occupy
a vacation rental, in this case eight, prohibits vacation rentals with nine or more occupants.” The response filed by City Attorney Becky Vose that same day states, “Implicit in this court’s ruling is the finding that the term ‘prohibit’ is not ambiguous, and the limitation on occupancy does not constitute a prohibition of vacation rentals.” In her response, Vose notes that the state statute makes no reference to occupancy limits. “Had the legislature intended to prevent local governments from imposing regulations as to vacation rental occupancy, the legislature would have inserted that in the statute. But it did not,” she wrote. Vose asked the court to deny the plaintiffs motion for rehearing and grant the city further relief as deemed just and proper, which could include court costs and expenses.
Open everyday 7:30AM to 5:00PM 9807 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria • 941-778-3170 www.ginnysandjanees.com
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Bridge aesthetics committee gears up The Federal Highway Administration approved moving the replacement for the Anna Maria Island Bridge from the planning stage to the design stage on Jan. 15. BY TOM VAUGHT SUN STAFF WRITER tvaught@amisun.com
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span replacement for the Anna Maria Island Drawbridge is coming closer to reality with the focus turning to design and aesthetics. Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) Project Manager Kati Sherrard has sent e-mails to volunteers for the Bridge Aesthetics Committee saying it took longer than anticipated to get the design for the project started, but the
Federal Highway Administration approved advancing the project from the planning stage to the design stage. Sherrard said she would be meeting with Manatee County and Anna Maria Island elected officials, within a month to introduce the design team to them. The e-mail says she would be scheduling a kickoff meeting of the group in the near future.
Island officials receive FDOT reply BY PAT COPELAND SUN STAFF WRITER | pcopeland@amisun.com
THE ISLAND – Island elected officials have received a reply from the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) regarding their suggestions to reduce traffic congestion on the islands. On March 23, the four island mayors submitted a list of ways to immediately impact traffic congestion on the barrier islands to be
presented to FDOT, local city, county and Sarasota/Manatee Metropolitan Planning Organization officials. FDOT District Secretary Billy Hattaway said district officials reviewed the list and that short and long term improvements would be developed from the list as part of the planned Sarasota/Manatee Barrier Island traffic study. “We will keep the recommendations you provided in mind as we develop the project scope,� Hat-
taway wrote. “The input received on the current issues and improvements list we received will be presented to the selected consultant for consideration.� FDOT officials are preparing the scope of the traffic study to present to a selection committee for approval. Hattaway pointed out that some of the recommendations are the responsibility of other agencies and may not be included in the study.
PY P A H R H OUD ay ! Ev e r
y
Saturday ~ May 21st Armed Forces Day You Serve Our Country‌ Lynn
Enjoy Breakfast Daily At The Pier! 8 – 11am Our Pier location plays by its own rules. Specials may not apply.
Bring an active military ID and receive a FREE entrĂŠe!* *Valid 5/21/2015 only. Limit to one per person, per visit. Valid at all 4 locations.
PIER 941.778.AMOB (2662) 200 Bridge Street (Historic Bridge Street Pier)
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GRAND OPENING • 3 NEW MODEL HOMES
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MAY 18, 2016
MAY 18, 2016
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TOM VAUGHT | SUN
Fun fund-raiser Jessie’s Island Store manager Jimmy LaChapelle poses with deli manager April Gonzalez during the 20th Anniversary celebration of the gas station convenience store, which turned into a fundraiser for Gonzalez, who is battling cancer. Friends raised almost $2,000 for her medical expenses by taking donations for hamburgers, hot dogs, chips and sodas. There is a jar at the counter for those who would like to donate, but were unable to get there on Saturday. April said she was grateful for the donors who showed up and gave a happy “Thank you.”
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MAY 18, 2016
Open Daily – 11AM Happy Hour 2-6PM (Monday-Friday)
1014 9th St. W Bradenton, FL MotorworksBrewing.com
TOM VAUGHT | SUN
Relay for Life Twelve teams participated in the Relay for Life event at Coquina Beach last Saturday. The event raised nearly $15,000 for the fight against cancer. Some of the participants, above, spent time dancing, and members of The Center team, right, were joined by supportive family members.
Award-Winning Beers Live music Wine and cocktails Delicious food trucks Cornhole, bocce, putting green Massive projector screens Unique Event Space LIVE MUSIC SCHEDULE: 5/19 - Scott Curts (Acoustic) 5/20 - Galbraith Group(Funk/Blues)
5/21 - Concrete Edgar (Classic Rock) 5/22 - David Smash (Blues)
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MAY 18, 2016
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Pier motion filed by city The attorney representing the city claims no Sunshine Law violations occurred, and if they did they were cured. BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
BRADENTON BEACH – On Monday, May 9, attorney Fred Moore filed a motion for summary judgment on behalf of the city of Bradenton Beach’s defense of a lawsuit filed by Bradenton Beach Marina owners Al and Mike Bazzy. The lawsuit alleges city officials violated Sunshine Law requirements last summer during non-public discussions regarding the terms of a lease that granted the Anna Maria Oyster Bar (AMOB) ownership group the rights to three city-owned structures at the base of the Historic Bridge Street Pier. Filed in November, the lawsuit named AMOB and the city as the two primary defendants and former Mayor Jack Clarke and City Attorney Ricinda Perry as alleged Sunshine Law violators. In July, the City Commission selected AMOB as the preferred pier tenant and directed Perry and Clarke to further negotiate the lease and bring it back to the commission for final approval. The commission approved the final lease terms at the conclusion of two public hearings in August. “The city did not violate the Sunshine Law, and therefore, this court must render its judgment in favor of the city,” Moore’s motion states.
joe hendricks | sun
These city-owned buildings leased to the AMOB restaurant ownership group are the subject of a lawsuit filed in November. “The city attorney and mayor were not delegated any authority to reject or accept any terms. The city attorney and mayor simply provided AMOB with a draft of the lease with the prior tenant to gather information concerning what AMOB expected out of the lease in order to bring the issues back before the city commission for consideration. As a result, any meetings or discussions between the city attorney, mayor and AMOB are not governed by the Sunshine Law. Further, even if the Sunshine Law applied to the meetings between AMOB, the mayor and the city attorney, the city cured any such violation,” the motion states.
The cure Moore mentioned came in the form of the two public hearings. Moore made similar statements to former Circuit Court Judge John Lakin in January. During that hearing, Moore helped defeat an injunction request in which the Bazzys sought to force Paradise Boat Tours owner Sherman Baldwin to vacate the subleased upland space he uses as a terminal. The lawsuit also contends the city was required to offer separate requests for proposal for the lease rights to the two smaller commercial spaces. “There are no statutes which would require the city to put out the lease of property two or three,” Moore’s motion
states. “The city’s charter requires only that the city leases are to be adopted by ordinance.” The commission adopted the lease ordinance in August. “The city of Bradenton Beach respectfully requests that this court enter summary judgement in favor of the city, together with its costs and any further relief this court deems just and appropriate,” the motion concludes. As of Monday, a hearing date had not yet been set. Outside the courts, the Bazzys have argued that the state-issued submerged land lease prohibits tour boats and other commercial vessels from using the adjacent city-owned day dock; and that it prohibits the use of the nonrestaurant spaces for a retail operation shared by A Room with A Hue and Tide & Moon Jewelry. A letter sent to Police Chief Sam Speciale in April from the office of FDEP Southwest District Director Mary Yeargan dispelled those claims. Speciale now intends to establish a small area at the east end of the day dock for shortterm use when unloading commercial and recreational passengers. Commissioner Jake Spooner and Speciale have discussed the possibility of expanding the day dock in a manner that would generate revenue for the city; and Speciale and Mayor Bill Shearon are in the preliminary stages of re-initiating a previous effort to establish a managed mooring field south of the pier and day dock.
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BUSINESS
MAY 18, 2016
Shape up with a personal trainer BY LOUISE BOLGER
BLAKE FORSBERG
SUN STAFF WRITER | lbolger@amisun.com
You’re young, you’re in great shape, you just finished backpacking around Costa Rica for three months, and you don’t want to go back to your native Seattle. What do you do next? Well like any smart young man, you take your mother’s advice and move to Anna Maria Island. For six years Blake Forsberg has been serious about working out and becoming the definitive gym rat, so what better career choice is there than doing what you love, and three years ago Forsberg did just that. He became a certified personal trainer as well as a resistance training and fitness nutrition specialist certified by both the American Council on Exercise and the National Federation of Professional Trainers. Forsberg says his goal is to promote a lifestyle change in an effort to maintain and develop strength and mobility improving quality of life. He points out that after a certain age your body starts to break down especially if you have been living a sedentary lifestyle. He believes in preventative action and specializes in strength training for all of his clients, sometimes as many as 15 a week ranging in age from 32 to 82. His training programs start slow with an assessment of muscular strength and balance as well as the client's ultimate goals. After the first complimentary session Forsberg sets up a training schedule frequently three days a week under his supervision, pointing out those new movements need to be learned the proper way in order to be effective and achieve the maximum
Personal Trainer AMI Health & Fitness 5364 Gulf Drive Holmes Beach 360-271-8439 forsbergblake@gmail.com instagram/blakeforsberg facebook.com/blakeforsbergfitness 7 a.m. – 6 p.m. Monday – Friday benefit. Forsberg can do personal training in your home or at AMI Health & Fitness in Holmes Beach, and has just started a new monthly training program membership. For seasonal residents he would encourage them to get set up for next season before their return by scheduling their first complimentary session so they don’t lose any time when they arrive back on Anna Maria. And local and full time residents who sign up for a personal training package through June will receive a complimentary AMI Health & Fitness T-shirt. Forsberg found the perfect fit for his life on a little island off the coast of Florida where he “gets to teach people every day what his passion is.” If it’s time for you to get off the beach and get in shape call Forsberg and catch some of that passion.
LOUISE BOLGER | SUN
Blake Forsberg works out of AMI Health and Fitness and he's available for in-home training. Customers who sign up for a personal training package through June will get a free Anna Maria Island Health and Fitness T-shirt.
Classic cocktail bar coming to Holmes Beach The bar will be located at 5312 Holmes Boulevard, next to the AMI Art League. BY PAT COPELAND SUN STAFF WRITER | pcopeland@amisun.com
HOLMES BEACH – Restaurateur Sean Murphy presented his concept for a classic craft cocktail bar to city commissioners last week. Chair Judy Titsworth said Murphy would make his pre-
sentation and then the request would come back to them at another work session with a site plan and staff report. She also recused herself because she is the project designer, and City Attorney Patricia Petruff said Titsworth could discuss the project but not vote on it. “This is a very special type of bar, a project I’ve had in mind for very long time,” Murphy told the board. “The market niche I saw was a grown-ups'
bar, where people can have an enjoyable evening and a quiet drink. “It’s a revival of the old classic craft cocktail bar with an emphasis on quality rather than quantity. Some of the recipes go back 100 years with fresh juices, fresh herbs, small glasses and small portions.” The bar will be located at 5312 Holmes Boulevard, next see bar, page 16
Gene Aubry | submitted
The Doctor's Office will be in the former location of Dr. John Deam's office.
MAY 18, 2016
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Taking chances with long-term care Investment Corner TOM BREITER
O
n Monday, October 24, 2005, Hurricane Wilma caught many Floridians by surprise. Strengthening when it was supposed to weaken, Wilma brought gusts of wind up to 123 mph and several inches of rain. Six million people were affected when a record 3.2 million homes and businesses lost power and many lost water service as well. Mobile homes disintegrated, hospitals were evacuated and a sinkhole even opened up in Interstate 95. The most severe storm in half a century in Broward County, Wilma took the lives of 25 people statewide. If a storm warning were issued today, and they said there was a 70 percent chance of a hurricane of similar magnitude, what would you do? Would you sit back and relax? Most likely you would make preparations to protect your family and property. There is another area of life with the same probabilities, but most people respond differently. According to the US Department of Health and Human Services, someone turning 65 today has
almost a 70% chance of needing some type of long-term care services in their remaining years. However, with over 41 million Americans over age 65 in 2012, only 8.1 million people of any age had long-term care insurance. When it comes to hurricanes, some people have to live through one in order to take the warnings seriously. Unfortunately, usually with long-term care you only get one chance. Does everyone really need long-term care insurance, though? Can’t someone with a few hundred thousand saved pay out of pocket and be just fine? Long-term care can be much more expensive than many people realize.
LONG-TERM CARE COSTS IN FLORIDA
The most basic component of longterm care is homemaker services. This is needed when you are no longer able to perform day-to-day household duties like housekeeping, laundry, grocery shopping and meal preparation. Here in Florida, this costs $10-$29 an hour, averaging out at $41,184 a year. A higher level of in-home care is home health aide services, which average $43,472 a year in our state. Sixty-five percent of people need home care for an average of two years. For many people who saved and invested well during their see breiter, page 16
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Gene Aubry | SUbmitted
The interior of The Doctor’s Office shows 30 proposed seats. There will be 10 parking spaces at the site with valet parking from two other locations.
bar: Cocktail bar in Holmes Beach FROM PAGE 14
to the AMI Art League and will be named The Doctor’s Office. Dr. John Deam’s office was once located in that building. Murphy said the hours would be 5 to 11 p.m. or midnight, and
there are 10 parking spaces on site, enough for the 30 proposed seats. There also will be valet parking from two other locations. He also said he planned to have some events in cooperation with the Art League.
breiter: Long-term care FROM PAGE15
working years, a cost of just under $90,000 for two years of home care may sound affordable. However, 37 percent of people must leave their home and be cared for in a facility. Once you leave home, the cost of longterm care sky-rockets. The rate for a single occupancy one-bedroom unit in an assisted living facility averages $37,800 a year in Florida. However, there is a very broad range of prices, and it can cost up to triple that. Nursing homes are much more expensive than assisted living facilities because of the level of care provided. A semi-private room in a nursing home averages $87,600 a year and a private room is $96,725. Statistics show that 20 percent of 65-yearolds will need over five years of long-term care support. Now, if all you need are homemaker services that will cost you about $206,000. But, if you need to be in a nursing home and you’d like a private room, you’re looking at a bill of over $480,000.
SHOULD I BUY LONG-TERM CARE INSURANCE?
When deciding if you need long-term
care insurance, you need to know how much wealth you have and how much you would be willing to spend on care, look at the statistics and address your family health history. For example, if you have family members who have suffered from Alzheimer’s or dementia, you may be at a higher risk which would most likely involve spending several years in an assisted living facility or nursing home. As with any insurance, long-term care insurance protects you against an unsure future. None of us knows what the future holds; once we know for certain it will be too late. It is important to have a long-term care strategy and a plan in place before you need it. Tom Breiter is president of Breiter Capital Management, Inc., an Anna Maria based investment advisor. He can be reached at 778-1900. Some of the investment concepts highlighted in this column may carry the risk of loss of principal, and investors should determine appropriateness for their personal situation before investing. www. breitercapital.com
MAY 18, 2016
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Tom VAught | Sun
Travelin’ Turtle grand prize winner Congratulations to Melissa Bechler-Hadley, the Travelin’ Turtle contest grand prize winner. Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring, the Anna Maria Island Sun and many generous Island businesses contributed to the prize package. The contest kicked off the start of sea turtle nesting season this month, which continues through Oct. 31. Interested in sea turtles? Check out Turtle Tips in The Sun, attend Turtle Talks beginning in June each Tuesday at Crosspointe Church, 8605 Gulf Drive in Holmes Beach, from 10-11 a.m., or visit www.islandturtlewatch.com.
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MAY 18, 2016
Exposure charge dropped The dropped charges prompted a new ordinance that will be presented on Thursday.
I searched the Bradenton Beach ordinances and it does not appear your city has an ordinance that prohibits such an action.”
BY JOE HENDRICKS
Khalil Madani Assistant State Attorney.
SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun
BRADENTON BEACH – The state attorney’s office has dropped the indecent exposure charge against bait vendor John Maguire, but he remains trespassed from the Historic Bridge Street Pier. The charge stemmed from an act of public urination from the pier that was witnessed by a Bradenton Beach police officer at approximately 2:30 a.m., on April 11. The alleged act took place after the officer awoke Maguire and told him he was not allowed to tie his bait boats to the pier overnight. The indecent exposure charge was dropped last week because the city did not have a public urination ordinance on the books. That will soon change if proposed Ordinance 16-469 is adopted on first reading at the Thursday, May 19, City Commission meeting. The proposed ordinance stems from an e-mail Assistant State Attorney Khalil Madani sent to Lt. Lenard Diaz on Monday, May 9, in regard to the charge being dropped. “Under the wording of this statute, it is not a criminal offense to urinate in public. However, I know a lot of municipalities have ordinances that
joe hendricks | sun
The indecent exposure charge levied against John Maguire has been dropped, but he is still not allowed on the Historic Bridge Street Pier. prohibit such behavior. I searched the Bradenton Beach ordinances and it does not appear your city has an ordinance that prohibits such an action. However, because your city has no prohibition on the ordinance itself, you should be able to issue citations for public urination under the Manatee County ordinances,” Madani's e-mail stated. On Tuesday, May 10, Madani responded to objections expressed by Diaz. “I received your message and objection to my decision to decline the case against Mr. Maguire. I agree
that the statute does not say that it requires unlawful indulgence, but somewhere along the line case law has interpreted the use of the word vulgar or indecent manner, which is in the statute, to mean that it requires the unlawful indulgence in lust, eager for sexual indulgence,” Madani wrote. Police Chief Sam Speciale said Maguire remains the subject of a trespassing order due to his inappropriate behavior. If Maguire returns to the pier, he could be arrested on trespassing charges. When relaxing in front of a Bridge Street establishment the week before his charge was dropped, Maguire said he has relocated his floating bait sales operation to the north end of Longboat Key. He bemoaned the fact that city officials succeeded in running him off the pier, but said sales were good at his new location.
proposed ordinance
Ordinance 16-469 would create a new section, 42-9, to the city’s code of ordinances.
The proposed ordinance language states that is unlawful to urinate or defecate on any public place within the boundaries of the city of Bradenton Beach. “Any person found in violation of this ordinance shall be punished by up to 60 days in jail, a fine of up to $500, or both jail time and fine,” the ordinance states. Exceptions are provided for children under 11 and to persons with impediments who lack the physical or mental ability to control their bodily functions. In these instances, a parent or guardian is required to do the necessary clean up. Failure to do so would result in the parent or guardian violating the ordinance. The ordinance also addresses waste associated with boats moored in the unmanaged anchorage area south of the pier. The ordinance language states that it is unlawful to dump, unload or otherwise dispose of human waste in any public place or residential property within the city limits.
MAY 18, 2016
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Historical scholarship awarded BY PAT COPELAND SUN STAFF WRITER | pcopeland@amisun.com
The Anna Maria Island Historical Society has awarded its 2016 $2,000 scholarship to Mikaelyn Pavlisin, daughter of Greg and Debbie Pavlisin, of Anna Maria. The scholarship was presented at the AMI Chamber business card exchange at the AMI Historical Museum complex in Anna Maria on April 27. Mikaelyn has attended Pine View School for the Gifted in Sarasota since she was in second grade. She been a docent at the AMI Historical Museum since she was 9 years old after she met Sissy Quinn, the former director of the Historical
Society, and learned about its mission. She has spent Saturdays and special museum events dressed in her historical dress, guiding visitors on tours of Belle Haven and helping kids in completing the scavenger hunts. “I simply love watching people’s joy as they find pictures of their relatives on our walls and displays; they tell so many stories of people with amazing lives on the Island,” she said. “I have loved every Saturday when I come and volunteer.” Mikaelyn plans to attend the University of Florida and major in nutrition and then proceed to graduate school in the field of medicine.
Doug Copeland | Submitted
AMI Historical Society Scholarship Chair Pat Copeland presents a $2,000 scholarship to Mikaelyn Pavlisin.
tom vaught | SUN
Earth Day Above, Vincent Gollamudi and Sheema Gollamudi, at right, show their Earth Day shrine, at the Island Branch Library Saturday, April 23. The kids celebrated Earth Day by honoring what they love about the earth.
CPR Manatee County Emergency Medical Technician Jay Johnston shows how to give CPR to an infant at the inaugural CPR class given free by West Manatee Fire Rescue on Saturday, April 30, at the Island Branch Library. The next class will be on Saturday, May 28, at 9 a.m. You must sign up by calling 778-6341. Seating is limited. TOM VAUGHT | SUN
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MAY 18, 2016
submitted
Mallory and Andres Witrak from Oak Harbor, Wash. were married at Tortuga Inn Beach Resort on March 24, 2016. The venue coordinator was Jordan Oliveira-Heller.
Dara Caudill | www.islandphotography.org
Dale Dolson surprised Laura Bankston with a proposal on the beach of the Sandbar restaurant, while Laura's daughter, Riley, and son, Colby shared in on the fun. Laura said "yes," and everyone on the beach clapped. The newly engaged couple, along with Riley and Colby, celebrated on the beach before returning home to Round Rock, Texas.
submitted
Vanessa Mandina and Jeff Purdy from North Miami Beach, Fla. were married at Seaside Inn Beach Resort on April 16, 2016. The venue coordinator was Jordan Oliveira-Heller.
Melissa Wygal and Benjamin Whipple were married at the Sandbar restaurant on May 5, 2016. Chuck Caudill provided the music. Patti Mckee and Luis Ortiz, of the Sandbar, organized the ceremony and reception. Melissa and Benjamin honeymooned on Anna Maria Island before returning home to Ontario, N.Y. Dara Caudill | www.islandphotography.org
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MAY 18, 2016
A Perfect Setting.. For Your Perfect Wedding
100 Spring Avenue Anna Maria Island 941.778.8709
200 Gulf Drive North Bradenton Beach 941.778.8718
BeAnIslandBride.com
The ultimate experience The historic Sandbar restaurant and special event pavilion, with its breathtaking sunsets, exceptional customer service and outstanding food, has for decades attracted couples celebrating their special day. You too can say your vows on their sugar sand beach. For nine years, readers of “The Knot” have voted the Sandbar the top ceremony and wedding site. Readers of weddingwire.com have given the Sandbar the Brides Choice Award for 2010 - 2015. The Sandbar restaurant’s special event pavilion is the most unique venue for weddings and special events on the west coast of Florida. It is a stand-alone, open-air pavilion steps from the Gulf of Mexico. It can comfortably seat 100-plus guests under the pavilion, with additional seating along its perimeter. The menus offer a wide variety of sumptuous, tried and true favorites as well as locally sourced and sustainable dishes to please every palate. The Sandbar’s culinary team is happy to customize a menu for your event. The Sandbar’s wedding coordinator, Patti McKee, will be with you throughout the planning and event stages and will offer you a list of preferred vendors to help make your wedding day dreams come true. For information on the Sandbar Restaurant Special Event Pavilion contact Patti McKee, 941-778-8709, pmckee@chilesgroup.com. Follow them on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Pinterest. Search reviews on The Knot, and Weddingwire or see photos on their website www.islanddining.com.
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Relax before and after vows Anna Maria Island Resorts is your location for a beachfront wedding, anniversary or family reunion. The award-winning Tortuga Beach Resort, SeaSide Beach Resort, Tropic Isle Beach Resort and Tradewinds Beach Resort offer luxurious rooms, studios and large apartments with heated swimming pools and private beaches. Tortuga has a fishing dock and boat slips on Sarasota Bay. Tortuga also offers a stunning wedding pavilion on the beach for up to 70 guests. Tradewinds is located at 1603 Gulf Drive, SeaSide at 2200 Gulf Drive, Tropic Isle at 2103 Gulf Drive and Tortuga at 1325 Gulf Drive, all in Bradenton Beach. Dockage for wedding party members and guests traveling by boat are welcome. All four resorts offer a variety of luxurious accommodations that range from studios to spectacular 1,400 square foot two-bedroom, two-bath apartments. One and two-bedroom cottages range from 400 to 700 square feet. All facilities provide fully-equipped kitchens, free local and long distance, Wi-Fi, cable TV, complimentary beach chairs, towels, umbrellas and more. All resorts are members of the Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce Wedding Merchants Association, along with other respected wedding vendors. Call the events department at 941-778-6611 x105 for more information. You can also log on to www.annamariaislandresorts. net. Make these wonderful resorts your home-awayfrom home. Â
MAY 18, 2016
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submitted
Stephanie Rickheim and Brian Turbett, from Saint Bonifacius, Minn., were married at the Tropic Isle Beach Resort on April 11, 2016. The venue coordinator was Jordan Oliveira-Heller.
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Dara Caudill | www.islandphotography.org
Hayley Keys and Matthew Barber were married at the Sandbar restaurant on April 13, 2016. Chuck Caudill provided music for the reception. Patti Mckee and Luis Ortiz coordinated the ceremony and reception. Hayley and Matthew honeymooned on Anna Maria Island before returning home to the UK.
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MAY 18, 2016
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OUTDOORS
FEBRUARY 17, 2016
Catch and release
C
atch and release is practiced by all anglers. Even those that take their catch home or to market release undersized fish. Many anglers are driven by the desire to protect sport fish populations, realizing that they are vulnerable and not the endless resource that they were once thought to be. Other anglers enjoy keeping a fish to eat but release most of their catch. Once a novel idea, Catch and Release, has become common place among a cadre of anglers. Anglers, unlike hunters can pursue their passion and release their prey. Many hunters and anglers are advocates for their sport and invest time and money in protecting the habitat and health of the fish and animals they pursue. Most anglers I know who practice catch and release have no problem with taking an occasional fish home for dinner. It's more about enjoying the sport and trying to be proactive in helping it to remain healthy and viable. There are certain species, like tarpon, that anglers seldom if ever kill. Catch and release is not just about releasing fish that you don't want, it's also about releasing undersized fish or species that aren't valued at the table. Catch and release in any form is a wise use of the resource, but anglers
Reel Time RUSTY CHINNIS must know how to properly handle the fish they let go. When we get cut, bruised or battered we can head for the local drug store or the Emergency Room. Not so for fish. For them it's heal or die and in their world it's the sick and wounded that fall prey to predators. What a shame to do the right thing, releasing a big speckled trout full of row, only to have it eaten by a shark, barracuda or other predator because it wasn't handled properly. Releasing fish with a minimum of damage applies to a 6 pound trout, a 150 pound tarpon and everything in between. First, make sure you match tackle to the task. Trying to land a big tarpon on twenty pound tackle might be okay if you're experienced, but to the inexperienced it's like announcing a free meal to sharks that ply local waters looking for weak or injured prey. Enjoy the action but land the fish as
CUTLINE
Captain Rick Grassett launches a little tunny after a quick picture to give it a head start. see reel time, page 27
tide chart for anna maria city pier-May 18-25 Day Date
A.M. High Time Feet
A.M. Low Time Feet
P.M. High Time Feet
P.M. Low Time Feet
Sun Rise Set
Day Date
Wed 5/18
9:49a 2.12
3:41a 0.81
11:08p 1.60
4:52p 0.32
6:40-8:14
Thu 5/19
10:08a 2.23
4:11a 0.93
11:53p 1.57
5:28p 0.15
Fri 5/20
10:30 2.33
4:39a 1.03
Sat 5/21
12:35a 1.54
5:06a 1.12
6:04p 0.02 10:54a 2.42
6:40p -0.06
6:39-8:15 6:39-8:15 6:38-8:16
A.M. High Time Feet
A.M. Low Time Feet
P.M. High Time Feet
P.M. Low Time Feet
Sun Rise Set
Sun 5/22
1:18a 1.52
5:32a 1.18
11:22a 2.49
7:17p -0.12
6:38-8:16
Mon 5/23
2:03a 1.50
6:01a 1.23
11:54a 2.53
Tue 5/24
2:51a 1.50
6:34a 1.27
12:31p 2.54
8:38p 0.16
Wed 5/25
3:40a 1.52
7:16a 1.31
1:14p 2.50
9:23p -0.14
7:56p -0.16
6:38-8:17 6:37-8:17 6:37-8:18
MAY 18, 2016
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reel time: Catch & release FROM PAGE 27
quickly as possible. Once you have the fish under control, it’s best to leave them in the water. If you've been fighting them for a long time revive them alongside the boat. If you can reach the water over the gunwale, slowly move the boat forward while holding the fish. This forces water and oxygen through their gills. They'll let you know when they're ready to swim away. Launch fast swimming fish like little tunny and king mackerel head first to give them a head start. A de-hooker is a great addition to any boat. When you use one you seldom have to touch the fish. They will keep your hands clean and prevent you from inadvertently harming the fish. Fish secrete a protective coating that covers the scales and skin. This mucus membrane acts as a defense against invasion by bacterial, parasitic, and fungal pathogens. De-hookers come in various shapes depending on how they're used. The simplest is J shaped and removes hooks in or near the jaw. A circular shaped longer version allows anglers to remove hooks that are deep in the throat of a fish. Anglers who fish for reef fish like snapper and grouper need to learn how to "vent" fish with inflated swim bladders. Bringing the fish up from deep depths fast bloats the bladder, which has to be punctured to allow the fish to reach the bottom. A good presentation of the process is available at http://catchandrelease.org/Fish%20Venting%20Flash10/player.html. Anglers that release fish may want to take a picture to document their catch. This is best accomplished when you’re prepared in advance. Set your exposure and have an idea where in the boat you want to take the picture. If you remove the fish from the water, hold it horizontally with one hand near the head and the other under the fish’s belly to help support its weight. Holding a fish vertically puts a strain on the internal organs and can potentially dislocate its jaw. By being prepared we can get the fish back in the water fast thus insuring its chances of survival. Taking the time and having the tools and knowledge to release fish mindfully is a great way to help insure we have a healthy population of fish now and into the future.
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Tarpon action picks up Captain Rick Grassett
Anglers fishing on the my Action Craft flats skiff, the Snook Fin-Addict, out of CB’s Saltwater Outfitters on Siesta Key, had decent action in the coastal Gulf in Sarasota jumping four tarpon and catching and releasing two last week. As expected, tarpon numbers increased and large schools became more plentiful as water temperatures rose to 80 degrees. Cliff Ondercin, from Sarasota, and his dad, Dennis Ondercin from Middleburg Heights, Ohio, tarpon fished with me every day last week. We fished live crabs, a variety of baitfish, DOA Baitbusters and 4-inch CAL Shads, however all of their action was on a live crab. They had shots at tarpon every day, jumping four and catching and releasing two. The largest fish taped out an estimated 115 pounds. Cliff and Dennis are longtime customers and friends and the tradition grew as the third generation, Cliff’s young son Mason joined us on Friday for his first exposure to tarpon fishing. In addition to spotting tarpon, he also saw huge spotted eagle rays,
CAPTAIN RICK GRASSETT | submitted
Cliff Ondercin, of Sarasota, releases a tarpon after it put up a strong fight. Tarpon are increasing in numbers as summer heats the Gulf waters. dolphins, manatees and sharks. His patience and attention on the boat was great. Tarpon fishing in the coastal Gulf should be good as we head towards a full moon next weekend. Catch and release night snook fishing around lighted docks and bridges in the ICW or in the surf with flies and DOA Lures should be good.
annie’s Bait & TAckle
Captain Daniel Kesten says snook bites are strong and the fish
are everywhere. Redfish are starting to bite, but easily spooked, so go quietly. Trout are in the deeper grass flats, Spanish mackerel in Sarasota Bay, snapper on the near shore reefs, and there will be good fishing coming up to the full moon. Tarpon are starting to show and they prefer pass crabs. Captain Scott Moore says Spanish mackerel are on inshore reefs; trout are in 4 -6 inch grass flats; redfish are along mangrove edges; snook around passes and beaches; and tarpon are plentiful.
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TOWN CRIER
enjoyed by beginning kayakers. Participants must have their own canoe or kayak and safety gear, and they must wear a life jacket. Paddlers under the age of 16 must be in a boat with a parent or guardian. Reservations are required. Call 941-742-5757, ext. 7, to register.
Yoga in a chair The Anna Maria Island Art League hosts Cindy Phillips and Gentle Chair Yoga on Wednesdays from noon to 12:45 p.m. at the Art League, 5312 Holmes Blvd. Holmes Beach. The cost is $10 per class and spaces are limited. Gentle Chair Yoga combines breathing with postures to help improve strength, flexibility, balance and tranquility. This class will focus on stretches to foster healing and soothing the spirit and gaining an overall sense of well being, followed by balance and strengthening poses utilizing a chair as a prop. Enjoy all the benefits of a regular yoga practice, without having to get down on the floor by using a traditional yoga mat, which makes it suitable for all levels and abilities. For more information, call 778-2099.
Book club meets
Take stock in yourself
Don't miss those blues, brews and BBQ
The second annual Blues, Brews and BBQ festival takes place on Bridge Street, next to the Fish Hole golf course, on Saturday, May 21, from 3 to 9 p.m. It features local legend Sarasota Slim. The music starts off with MacMcConnell, followed by Blues Pig and then Sarasota Slim. Island Time Bar and Grill will be selling the ribs, Fire and Stone will bring pizza and Motorworks Brewing will provide the brews. There will be a silent auction, and money made from the event will go toward All Island Denomination's Food Pantry, Admission is $5 and kids under 12 are free.
Japanese paint class
The Friends of the Island Library Book Club meets at 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, on Thursday, May 19, at 10 a.m. to discuss “All the Light We Cannot See” by Doerr. For more information, call 778-6341.
opens up new vistas for seniors, is going to Warm Mineral Springs in North Port on Friday, May 20. Members should meet at The Center, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria, by 10 a.m. The cost is $20, plus gas. For more information, call Peg Miller at 778-3106.
The Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, hosts sumi ink painting on Saturday, May 21, from 3 to 5 p.m. This free family event is open to all ages. For more information, call the library at 778-6341.
Fun with needles
Drums at sunset
Shop the beach
The Friends of the Island Library Knitting and Crochet Club meets at the on Thursday, May 19, at 2 p.m. at the library, 5701 Marina Drive, in Holmes Beach. For more information, call the library at 778-6341.
Enjoy the sounds of drums keeping the beat in the Sunset Drum Circle at the Anna Maria Island Beach Café, 4000 Gulf Dr, Holmes Beach, on Fridays from 5 to 8 p.m. There’s no charge to listen, and dinner is available at the café.
Help with weight loss
Bridge taught here
Overeaters Anonymous meets at the Church of the Annunciation, 4408 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, each Thursday at 7 p.m. For more information, call 813494-6518.
A beginner’s/refresher class in bridge takes place Fridays from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. at the Aging in Paradise Resource Center, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, second floor, Longboat Key. The cost is $10 per class with coffee and cookies provided. RSVP to maryannbrady@ aginginparadise.org or by phone, 941383-6493
The Beach Market at Coquina Beach offers shopping in the shade of the pines and the nice Gulf breeze from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. every Sunday through July. Shop for items from local artists, arts and crafts, jewelry, fresh produce, plants, apparel, pottery, purses, collectibles, health and beauty items and more. It’s a good place for unique items and vacation souvenirs. It’s also a good place to enjoy the beautiful white sand beach, relax on the beautiful deck overlooking the Gulf and with eats and drinks from the Coquina Cafe. The Beach Market is at 2650 Gulf Drive S., Bradenton Beach at the trolley stop, concession stand area. Admission is free, and the free trolley stops near the market. Manatee County does not allow dogs anywhere in Coquina Park. The market is stroller, walker and wheelchair accessible. Contact Nancy Ambrose for more information 941-518-4431.
Zumba Thursdays Zumbatime with Suzy, beginners class, will be held Thursdays, from 10 to 11 a.m. at the Aging in Paradise Resource Center, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, second floor, Longboat Key. The cost is $10 per class. RSVP to maryannbrady@aginginparadise.org or by phone, 941-383-6493.
Music on the beach They're jammin' in the Sand on Thursdays at the Anna Maria Island Beach Café, 4000 Gulf Dr, Holmes Beach, from 5 to 8 p.m. It’s free, and it’s fun. Enjoy dinner while you listen.
Exploring mineral springs Senior Adventures, the group that
MAY 18, 2016
The buzz on mosquitoes Manatee County Mosquito Control, Senior Research Biologist Eva Bucker will speak at the Kiwanis Club of Anna Maria Island meeting at 8:30 a.m. on Saturday, May 21, at Manatee Beach Café, at Manatee Public Beach, 5000 Marina Drive. Breakfast is available for purchase before the meeting, and prospective members are welcome.
Meditate at the library There will be a meditation session at the Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, on Saturday, May 21. For more information, call 778-6341.
Robinson Preserve by water Enjoy watching the sun set from a canoe or kayak in west Manatee County’s largest preserve, Robinson Preserve, 1704 99th St. N.W., Bradenton, on Monday, May 23, from 7 to 9:30 p.m. They will take advantage of low tide to watch the sunset from the sandbars of the Manatee River. Bring your camera for great shots of egrets, herons and roseate spoonbills. This is an easy paddle that can be
Lunch and Learn at will be held on Monday, May 23, from 11:30 a.m. to 1:15 p.m. at Aging in Paradise Resource Center, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, 2nd Floor. Julie Cook Downing is presenting this highly interactive session on how to recognize your powers and strengths and renew your innovative abilities and passions so that you “Age Well and in the Right Place.” The cost is $10 with lkunch provided. RSVP to maryannbrady@aging in paradise.org or by phone at 941-383-6493.
Learn micro-irrigation. The Manatee County Agriculture and Extension Service hosts Taking the Mystery out of Micro-irrigation with Joann Larson on Tuesday, May 24, from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. at the Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. This free class satisfies the irrigation educational requirement for the Manatee County Outdoor Water Conservation Rebate Program. Learn how to select, install, and operate your own water-saving microirrigation system, the pros and cons, parts and pieces, and how to put it all together. Hear why it is important to water shrubs and other landscape plants separately from your lawn. Register online at http://manatee.ifas. utl.adu or call Joann Larson at 941-7224524.
Chess master will visit Learn how to play chess or sharpen your game at the Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, on Wednesday, May 25, at 11 a.m. The session is free and you can get more information by calling the library at 778-6341.
Explore with your best friend Owners that have attended Ambassadog orientation are invited to a canine stroll on Wednesday, May 25, from 5 to 6 p.m. at Robinson Preserve, 1704 99th St. N.W. They will discuss proper walking techniques in the preserves and how to encourage fellow nature lovers to clean up their dog’s waste. Ages 16 and over (for humans) and well-mannered dogs welcome. Retractable leashes not allowed. Call Sam at 941-742-5923, ext. 6036, to join the pack.
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mark your calendar From Page 7
Wednesday May 25
Ambassa dogs pack walk, Robinson Preserve, 99th Street Northwest and 17th Avenue Northwest, Bradenton. Call Sam at 941- 742-5923, ext. 6036, to join the pack. Chair yoga, Anna Maria Island Art League, 5312 Holmes Blvd., Holmes Beach, noon to 12:45 p.m. $10. Register to ArtLeagueAMI@gmail. com or 941-778-2099. Chess Club, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2 p.m.
Thursday May 26
Quilting group, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m. Yoga workshop for seniors, Aging in Paradise Resource Center, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, 2nd Floor, Longboat Key, 10:30 a.m. to noon. $10. RSVP to maryannbrady@aginginparadise.org or 941-383-6493. Aerobics for Seniors, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, 11 a.m.
Friday May 27
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paradise.org or 941-383-6493. Marine debris kayak task force, Neal Preserve, Manatee Avenue east of Anna Maria Island Bridge, 9 a.m. Reserve to 941-742-5923, ext. 6044, or e-mail Cary.Catts@ mymanatee.org.
Saturday May 28
West Manatee Fire Rescue CPR class, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 9 a.m. Preregistration at library required.
Sunday
May 29 Beach Market, Coquina Beach, Bradenton Beach, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Monday May 30
Social bridge games, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, noon.
TOM VAUGHT | SUN
Tuesday
Many happy returns
Duplicate bridge, Church of the Annunciation, 4408 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, 12:30 p.m. Main Hatch Motley Sea Shanty Singers, Florida Maritime Museum, 4415 119th St. W., in Cortez, 2 p.m.
Ginger Wyss and Priscilla Seawald got a birthday cake at the final meeting this season of the Anna Maria Garden Club, April 20. The cake, made at Wal Mart, was a fitting dessert for the club’s final luncheon of the season.
May 31
Bridge beginners/refresher course, Aging in Paradise Resource Center, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, 2nd Floor, Longboat Key, 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. $10, snacks included. RSVP to maryannbrady@agingin-
EVERYONE IS WELCOME Adult Bible Study 8:45 AM
SUNDAY WORSHIP 8:30 AM in the Memorial Chapel 10:00 AM in the Sanctuary Church School (K-5th) after Children’s Sermon • Nursery A NON DENOMINATIONAL CHRISTIAN COMMUNITY
Rev. Dr. Bob O’Keef
941-778-0414 • www.RoserChurch.com • www.facebook.com/RoserChurch
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THE SUN
BEACH BEAT Anna Maria
5/8, leaving the scene of an accident with property damage, 100 Spring Ave. The suspect hit the victim’s car and got out of his vehicle, causing a disturbance with the occupants. When they would not fight him, he left, striking a stop sign. He stopped at a parking lot and ran into a bathroom, where deputies found and arrested him.
Bradenton Beach
5/5, Disorderly intoxication, 100 block of Bridge Street. Two officers on patrol spotted the defendant causing a disturbance. He walked onto the Bridge Tender inn dock and got into his boat. He tried numerous times to start the oat but failed. An officer shined his flashlight on the defendant who started shouting. He refused to get off his boat and talk to the police, and he got belligerent to the point that they had to pepper spray him before placing him under arrest. 5/7, criminal mischief, $1,000 or greater, 100 block of 3rd Street South. The victim said the suspect shattered the front door window and entered the common hallway. The victim confronted him,and he ran away. The police responded and could not find the suspect until another resident said there was a man sleeping at 105 Bridge Street, directly across from the victim’s house. They awakened the suspect and the victim was
Obituaries Regina Piencikowski Regina Piencikowski, 73, of Holmes Beach, Fla., passed away suddenly on May 4, 2016. “Reggie” retired to Florida in 2000 after working with Department of Defense School as a math teacher in Okinawa, Philippines, and Germany. She is survived by her sisters, Barbara Lindemann (William), and Beverly Piencikowski. She was a loving aunt to Christopher and Erik Lindemann and great aunt to Trent, Justin, Aiden and Daniel. The Neptune Society handled her remains. A memorial fund is set up at the Mayo Clinic, in Jacksonville, Fla.
Sandra Southern Reschenberg Sandra Southern Reschenberg, 75, beloved wife, mother, and grandmother, passed away peacefully on May 9, 2016, after a short illness. She was born to Dorothy Irene and Charles Baxter Southern on May 6,
called to identify him, which she did. The officers arrested him. 5/9, criminal mischief, 2400 block of Avenue C. The complainant called to report damage to his staircase by his tenant. He said the tenant recently received his second DUI and he cannot drive, so he sits around the house and drinks. The complainant siad the fire department inspected the staircase and told him to repair it, which he did. He said the tenant damaged it again, and he has begun eviction proceedings.
Cortez
5/2, grand theft, 4334 127th St. W., storage area across from Annie’s Bait and Tackle. A trailer with three dirt bikes and a four-wheeler was stolen.
Holmes Beach
4/23, driving with a suspended license, third offense, 5100 block of Gulf Drive. The officer came upon an accident, and the driver said her license was suspended. A computer check showed this was her third offense, so she was arrested. 4/26, driving with an expired license tag and a suspended driver’s license, 4000 block of Gulf Drive. The officer stopped the vehicle because the tag showed it was expired. He also found out the driver’s license was suspended for financial responsibility. He was ticketed, and the officer seized the plate. 4/26, burglary, 7100 block of Palm Drive. The complainant said when he returned home, he noted a side door to the residence was open. He said nothing was taken, but somebody put a hole in a door and tried to access an iPad.
1941, in Steele Miss. She graduated from the University of Miami (Florida) in 1963 with a BA in accounting. She spent the first 50 years in the midSouth where she enjoyed Cotton Carnival, working as a CPA for her dad’s company, and spending time at Pickwick Lake. For the last 25 years, she has loved living the Florida life in Cortez. She delighted in walking on the beach, watching dolphins from the boat and exploring new destinations. When she was at home, she enjoyed reading, needlepoint and personally managing her retirement. She leaves behind a wonderful husband of almost 27 years, Jim; a daughter, Dee Dee Overley (husband, Joe); a son, Robert Seemann (wife Danielle); a brother, Charles Southern Jr.; two stepdaughters, Erin Strode and Elyse McMeen (husband Ben); six grandchildren, Maguire Overley, Campbell Overley, Dylan Seemann, Cody Seemann, Anna Strode, and Manus McMeen; plus many nieces and nephews. She also leaves behind many close friends she met throughout the years. She was preceded in death by her parents and older brother, James Howard Southern. The funeral service
MAY 18, 2016
4/26, burglary, 100 block of 74th Street. The owner said a burglar entered her home though an upstairs entry and stole alcohol and a lawn chair. 4/27, driving with no license, 750 Manatee Ave, The officer stopped the car for having the windows tinted too dark and found out the driver had no license. The officer cited him for no license, windows tinted too dark and not getting a Florida license after moving here. 4/30. Defrauding an innkeeper, 5406 Marina Drive, The Feast, A juvenile ordered shrimp and iced tea and consumed it outside. He then left without paying. The manager chased him and got him to come back. The officer called his parents to get him and pay his bill. 5/1, speeding, DUI, 5200 block of Gulf Drive. The officer stopped the motorcycle driver for speeding, and he saw symptoms of alcohol on the driver (red, watery eyes, slurred speech, an odor of alcohol). He was asked how much he had to drink, and the driver said one beer. The officer gave the driver a field sobriety test and based on the results, placed him under arrest. 5/1, lewdness, exposing sexual organs, 4000 Gulf Drive, Manatee Public Beach. The victim said she saw the suspect masturbate in the parking lot between two vehicles. He went into the bathroom and then out to his family after he finished. 5/2, possession of cannabis, less than 20 grams, 5200 block of Gulf Drive. The officer stopped the driver for speeding (43 mph in a 15mph zone), and when he approached the car, he smelled
marijuana burning. When has asked the driver to step out of the car, she said there was marijuana inside. He found a small bag in the console and a pipe. The driver was arrested. 5/2, vehicle theft, Agnelli Construction, 6000 Marina Drive. The complainant said when he arrived at work, the company’s Ford F-250 was missing. The police arrived and looked at a surveillance recording, and it showed the tenant in the building where the business is located stole the truck, getting the keys to the truck from the business. The police chief arrived, and he and the officers visited the tenants in the upstairs apartment, and the male confessed to stealing the truck, driving it to Palmetto and selling it for cocaine. The suspect gave the location of the sale, and Manatee County Sheriff’s deputies located and retrieved it. The male suspect was arrested, and the female was later arrested, and both were charged with grand theft auto.
was held on Friday, May 13, at Brown & Sons Funeral Homes & Crematory, 43rd Street Chapel, 604 43rd Street W., Bradenton. A private internment fol-
lowed at the Sarasota National Cemetery. Condolences may be sent to www. brownandsonsfuneral.com.
Sexual offenders move in According to the Florida Offender Alert System, convicted sexual offender Eric James has moved to 140 Crescent Drive, in Anna Maria. James registered with the system, as required by law, recently. The system also reports sexual offender Douglas Edward Mullaney now lives at 610 Dundee Lane in Key Royale.
MAGGIE FIELD | SUN
Honoring Michael Members of the Veterans of Foreign Wars Color Guard fold the flag at a celebration of life for Michael Reed Barton, of Holmes Beach, who died April 30, 2016. The ceremony was held at the Anchor Inn. His widow, Debi, is seated in the middle.
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Town hall meeting generates ideas for The Center Participants discussed the same question for three 20-minute sessions and compared notes. BY PAT COPELAND SUN STAFF WRITER | pcopeland@amisun.com
ANNA MARIA – Community members and staffers from The Center recently participated in a group discussion in a world café format facilitated by Erin Wright, Howard Stanten and Michael Kline, of Intus Personal and Group Transformation. In this format, card tables covered with paper were set up around the gym with four participants sitting at each card table. They all discussed the same question for 20 minutes,
taking notes on the table. “The idea is to get into a series of highly interactive discussions around an issue that’s important to you,” Stanton explained. “Everyone who wants to speak will have a chance to speak. “One of the rules is nobody can be wrong. Be curious with each other. If you find yourself coming to a quick judgment about something somebody else is saying, open up your mind to be more creative and responsive to what you’re hearing.” Kline added, “Bring your ideas to the paper on the table. This is about a conversation.” The question for participants was: Given we cannot be all things to all people, how can we use our resources to best serve our community?”
Center endowment fund established Martha Mary Kessler, longtime seasonal resident of Anna Maria, showed her love and support to her community by bequeathing $266,033.79 to the Anna Maria Island Community Endowment Trust, establishing the Mr. and Mrs. L. Gifford Kessler Endowment Fund, to be managed by the Manatee County Community Foundation. Also of Erie, Pa., Kessler wintered on the Island for many years, referring to it as “our island,” renting the same condo each year. She passed away at age 99, just a few weeks before her regular trip south. According to those who knew her, Kessler was referred to as a “spitfire,” having worked her whole life and serving as Erie’s first female chief probation officer. She loved the Island and felt it was important to support it through supporting the community center. “We are extremely grateful for the generosity and thoughtfulness of Martha Mary Kessler, and feel honored to be able to establish this endowment fund in her and her husband’s memory,” said Kristen Lessig, executive director of The Center. “This is just another example of the amazing legacies held here at The Center. “We are deeply grateful to be able to continue to serve this community with the hopes of having such an impact on many more generations to come. In addition to the establishment of the fund, our team will also be exploring a way in which to recognize Mr. and Mrs. Kessler within our Center… empowering our youth in the same manner in which Mrs. Kessler clearly lived her life.”
After the first 20 minutes, one person from each table remained while the others moved to another table and continued the discussion with a new group. The remaining person gave a brief summary of the previous participants’ discussion to the new participants at the table. There were three 20-minute sessions and then ideas were compiled. Some of the ideas were: offer self help programs, offer mental health for seniors, be open seven days a week, open on holidays when some workers are off and can use the facilities, foster multi-generational involvement, expand the volunteer program, offer education classes, implement a help hotline and use the e-mail list to share community information in emergencies.
pat copeland | SUN
From left, Diane Canniff, Margaret Jenkins, Holmes Beach Commissioner Carol Soustek and Kristen Lessig, executive director of The Center, discuss ideas.
Summer Camp at The Center The Center of Anna Maria Island will be offering Summer Camp for children from kindergarten to 9th grade (the grade they are going into next fall). Camp runs eight weeks from June 13 to Aug. 5 and is closed July 4. Summer My Way is for those from kindergarten to 5th grade and Adventure Time Summer Camp is for those from 6th grade to 9th grade. There also are volunteer opportunities for those going into 10th grade and up. For Summer My Way campers, Sports and Discovery camps run Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Specialty Camps will run in the mornings and will cost additional fees.
Discovery Camp is craft based and designed for children who enjoy being creative. Children will experience hands-on projects, art projects, gardening and other things to help them discover the world around them. Sports Camp is a non-stop, fun filled sports extravaganza. Campers will learn new games and new techniques and also will work on teamwork and sportsmanship. Specialty Camps include Drama Camp, July 11-21; Fishing Camp, June 13-17; and Sailing Camp, June 20-23 and July 11-14. For more information contact Drew@centerami.org or 941-7781908, ext. 9217. Adventure Time Summer Camp runs Monday through Friday
from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Children will go on weekly field trips. Adventure Time Teens will go on daily trips and outings. The weekday outings will include, but not be limited to Jumpin’ Fun, bowling, G.T. Bray pool and waterpark, movies, Mote Marine, Strike Zone, Rays and Marauders games, beach time, putt-putt, paddle boarding, MOSI, Airheads, ice skating, Tampa Skate Park, driving range, SE Guide dogs, and more. Friday premium outings include TreeUmph, Busch Gardens, Celebration Station, Florida Aquarium, and Adventure Islands. For more information contact CJ at caron@canterami.org or 941-778-1908.
Summertime offers summer fun at The Center
CENTER NOTES The Center of Anna Maria Island offers the following classes at 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria. For further details or to register call The Center at 778-1908 or visit the website at Centerami.org
Turbo Kick
Becki Hovda will bring her turbo kick class to The Center on Mondays at 1 p.m. Turbo kick combines traditional kickboxing moves with high-intensity interval training for an unbelievable calorie burn. Get into knockout shape by learning hard-hit-
ting combos and edgy dance moves while torching fat and carving lean, strong muscle. No bags; no gloves; just results. This class is included in Center membership and $15 per class for non-members.
Cardio Cycle
Cycle is one of the best ways to create a high-level interval workout, without any hard impact on the body. Your instructor will be taking you up hills using resistance, showing safe, effective ways to maximize your movements and workout. This class is for all levels of fitness. If you are new to cycle, come a few minutes ahead to adjust your bike to
your specific needs. Classes are free to members and $15 for drop-ins. Classes are on Mondays and Friday from 8 to 8:45 a.m.
Tykes on Bikes
The Center in partnership with Beach Bums is offering Tykes on Bikes staring in June on Wednesdays at 6 p.m. for kids 18 months to 5 years. The class uses balance bikes to help develop balance and coordination. It also teach steering and basic bike skills without the distraction of pedals. Bikes are limited; call The Center to pre-register. The class is free for members and $5 per class for non-members.
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MAY 18, 2016
Perico Preserve opens BY CINDY LANE SUN STAFF WRITER | clane@amisun.com
Outdoors enthusiasts welcomed the eagerly awaited grand opening of Perico Preserve on Saturday, which also was International Migratory Bird Day, highlighting the preserve’s chief purpose as a bird rookery and reserve. Wildlife Education and Rehabilitation Inc. released two rehabilitated birds, a red shouldered hawk and an osprey, to celebrate the preserve’s opening, followed by a ribbon cutting by Manatee County Commissioner John Chappie, elected officials, and staff from the county’s Parks and Natural Resources Department. Over the past 10 years, the county has preserved 1,000 acres of land, he said. The department restored the former farmland to its native state; farming began on the property in the 1930s, and a vegetable stand operated into the 1970s on Manatee Avenue where the entrance to the new preserve is located. The preserve has been under construction for six years. Visitors toured the 1.5-mile shell and boardwalk trail on the 176-acre preserve, some with guides from the county, and were delighted by a bird blind, designed for birdwatchers and photographers, and the bird rookery island, the main feature of the preserve. Shaded swing benches overlook fresh and saltwater marshes. Dry uplands provide habitat for relocated gopher tortoises. Shady trails will be comfortable for summer walkers. And the preserve has a Monet-like pond, with water lilies and a bridge, which already has drawn several bird species. From a boardwalk, visitors can see Robinson Preserve across Perico Bayou; the two preserves create a wildlife corridor for many species of animals and birds. To protect wildlife, dogs are not allowed at Perico Preserve, and bicycles are limited to certain areas; both are allowed at Robinson Preserve.
CINDY LANE | SUN
Gaillardia flowers along pathways at Perico Preserve.
CINDY LANE | SUN
Clockwise above, Manatee County Commissioner John Chappie cuts the ribbon opening Perico Preserve on Saturday. A great blue heron surveys a pond filled with water lilies at Perico Preserve. Water lilies in a Perico pond. Perico Preserve offers shady paths for hot summer walks. A dusky moorhen paddles in a Perico pond bordered by a boardwalk.
MAY 18, 2016
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THE SUN
Cortez Cultural Center welcomes visitors BY CINDY LANE SUN STAFF WRITER | clane@amisun.com
CORTEZ – The Cortez Cultural Center has expanded its hours to Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., welcoming visitors and locals alike to take a peek at life long ago in the historic fishing village. The museum features sections on Cortez military veterans, musicians, women, churches, films, and, of course, commercial fishing, among other displays. An old-time screened-in porch with antique wooden rockers overlooking a lake at the FISH Preserve beckons visitors to sit, enjoy the breeze and chat awhile or read one of the books about Cortez on sale at the center at a reduced price of $9, including “Cortez Then and Now,” “Finest Kind,” and a cookbook, “What’s Cooking in Cortez?” The not-for-profit Cortez Village Historical Society (CVHS), which operates the center, is seeking donations of photographs, furniture, sound recordings, clothing, military memorabilia and other artifacts documenting the daily lives of Cortezians. Information to add to the ongoing compilation of the genealogies of Cortez founding families is also welcome. Volunteers are needed as museum docents. The center is in the former Monroe cottage, which was hauled from Bradenton Beach to Cortez in 2011. The Sun brought the cottage’s impending demolition to the attention of Manatee County officials who persuaded the city to donate the cottage to CVHS. The center is located on the FISH Preserve on Cortez Road, just east of the Florida Maritime Museum; park at the museum and walk to the Center or turn south off Cortez Road and drive through the gates directly to the center.
Cortez book signing Saturday
Cortez author J.B. Crawford will be signing copies of his new book, “Cortez Village,” at the Cortez Cultural Center on Saturday, May 21, from 1-4 p.m. The book covers the many challenges faced by the historic commercial fishing village over the past 130 years, including World Wars I and II, a flu epidemic, the stock market crash, the sinking of the Regina, red tide, the Korean War, and the gill net ban. The village also has successfully opposed a 65-foothigh bridge and a marina, and now is faced with an influx of traffic from nearby residential housing developments. Proceeds from the book’s sale will benefit the Cortez Village Historical Society, which operates the new center.
CINDY LANE | sun
Clockwise from above, the Cortez Cultural Center is located on the FISH Preserve on Cortez Road, just east of the Florida Maritime Museum, which is at 119th Street. You can park at the museum and walk to the cottage or turn south off Cortez Road and drive through the gates directly to the Center. Volunteer Karen Wood and Cortez Village Historical Society President Kaye Bell relax in antique rocking chairs on the breezy screened porch overlooking the FISH Preserve lake at the Cortez Cultural Center. Photographs of Cortez families, fishermen, boats and scenes are sought and will be archived at the Cortez Cultural Center. A replica of the street sign in Bradenton Beach where the Monroe cottage spent most of its life before becoming the Cortez Cultural Center greets visitors at the entrance. The Cortez Cultural Center is seeking 78 r.p.m. record donations to display with its phonograph. A photograph of Cortez Grand Ol’ Opry fiddlers Goose Culbreath, left, and Soupy Davis is one of the artifacts in the music section of the center.
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THE SUN
SPORTS
MAY 18, 2016
Slim’s Place triumphs over WFC With the score 3-0 and less than a minute left in the game, Lessig tried to put a point up for Wash Family Construction. Despite great efforts by Lessig and Beissert, the team just could not put one in the net before the ref blew his whistle signaling the end of the game.
BY MONICA SIMPSON SPECIAL TO THE SUN
With spectators in the stands, another season of adult co-ed soccer is underway at the Center. In its second week of play, the first game of the night pitted Wash Family Construction (WFC) against Slim’s Place. Slim’s Place started the game off with an immediate pass back to first round draft pick Matt Kretzmann. The game was the battle of the strong legs: hard strikes, and long defensive clears. The goalies were put to work with multiple shots on goal by both teams. In goal for WFC was Enrico Beissert, subbing for the team’s regular goalie Jason Sato. Beissert who typically plays a strong field game showed his solid skills in the goal during the entire first half of the game. Team Captains Lyn Clarke and PJ Smargisso, and Slim’s Place’s power mid-fielder Sean Sanders moved the ball back and forth, while Kyle Lessig for Wash Family Construction battled it out with Kretzmann for possession of the ball for the 40 minutes of play. WCF’s James Clifford, newcomer to the league, played aggressively during the game eventually getting called for pushing from behind, giving Slim’s Place possession several times during the game. Slim’s Place had a shot taken by Sanders with the ball sailing just over the net and Caitlin Lemmond answered back with an attempt off her leg that went right of the post. James Lynch proved to be an offensive threat for Slim’s Place. His first scoring attempt was a popped up bomb 35 yards from the goal. Beissert saved the goal, preparing him for another attempt by Sanders. Keeping the goalie busy, Kretzmann passed the ball to Sanders who struck again. Three attempts by Team Slim’s Place…three stops by Beissert. After an offensive push down the field by WFC, Murat Akay found himself with a free kick opportunity. Taking the shot against goalkeeper Will Case. Akay’s shot made it in the net, but the referees called the play back because the shot went off before the whistle. Lessig made the second attempt for Wash Family Construction, but the shot when high keeping the game scoreless. The Sanders, Kretzmann, Lynch trio continued to challenge Beissert, but again Lynch’s shot was too high.
Sun Scoreboard Monday, May 9 6-to 7-year-old league Progressive Energy Truly Nolen
4 2
Signarama Pink and Navy Boutique
2 0
8-to 10-year-old league The Feast Lux Carts
Tuesday, May 10 8-to 10-year-old league
Wash Family Construction Blue Lagoon Landscaping
3 2
John Demato Real Estate Lux Carts
1 0
11-to 13-year-old league Beach Bums Sugar Beach Digital
Wednesday, May 11 Adult Basketball MONICA SIMPSON | SUN
Slim's Place's big man Matt Kretzmann fights to win the ball against Kyle Lessig for Wash Family Construction Thursday night in week two of adult soccer at the Center. Sean Flynn relieved Beissert in goal giving him the opportunity to take the ball down the field for WFC. Putting his body on the ball Case saved the goal for Slim’s Place. With two minutes left in the half, Lynch found the gap between Flynn’s legs for the first goal of the game giving Slim’s Place a one-point lead. Wash Family Construction started the second half of play. After good passing by the team, Akay takes a shot that was just high. WFC got the ball back again quickly taking another shot, but not being able to capitalize. Sanders, trying to get his first goal of the game, had plenty of time to shoot. Finally, finding his footing his strike went right into the hands of Sato who took over in the goal right after the start of the second half. Zach Schield, playing the “cherry picker” position in a league that does not enforce the offside rule, won the
ball against Clarke scoring for Slim’s Place advancing the score to 2-0. Trying their luck one more time, Team Slim’s Place launched the ball three-quarters of the way down the field again to Schield, defended by Clarke. This time the soccer ball took a high bounce over the goal past Schield. Kretzmann his last shot against Sato hoping to put another point on the scoreboard. Sato worked to handle the hard kick, eventually stopping the ball saving the goal. As time quickly ticked off of the clock, Lynch threw in the ball for Slim’s Place. The soccer ball bounced off of WFC’s Flynn back to Lynch. Moving the ball closer to the goal, Lynch passed the ball to Sanders who crossed it back to Lynch. Lynch took the long shot and with a bend on the ball Sato got a hand on it but could not stop shot.
6 0
3 1
Team Jackson Team Aaron
71 53
Team Sapanora Team Bekkerus
72 39
Team Terman Team Bailey
80 37
11-to 13-year old league Beach Bums Coldwell Banker
Thursday, May 12 Adult Co-Ed Soccer
Slim’s Place Wash Family Construction Island Pest Control Blake Hospital Team #1
1 1
3 0 10 1
Jiffy Lube Moss Builders
1 0
Ross Built Construction Blake Hospital #2
3 1
WWW.AMISUN.COM - CELEBRATING 15 YEARS
MAY 18, 2016
THE SUN
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Abandonment request denied A member of the city's planning and zoning board asked for a neighboring property be declared abandoned. BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
BRADENTON BEACH – The city has denied John Metz’s request for an appeal hearing as part his attempts to have a neighboring vacation rental property declared abandoned. In a series of e-mails sent to Building Official Steve Gilbert in recent months, Metz demanded an abandonment order based on his own interpretation of city code. Metz serves on the city’s Planning and Zoning Board but acted as an individual in this matter. Metz owns and resides in the single story structure next door at 306 Gulf Dr. S., a portion of which he uses as a vacation rental. The two-story residential structure in question is located at 308 Gulf Dr. S. and is owned by Gulf Drive Café owners Wendy and George Kokolis, who purchased it in September 2014. Shortly after they bought the property, an officer from the Bradenton Beach Police Department responded to a complaint from Wendy Kokolis and ordered Metz to stay off their property. On Friday, May 13, City Attorney Ricinda Perry e-mailed Metz a letter informing him that his request for an appeal hearing had been denied. Metz filed his request the previous week, along with a $500 application fee. Perry’s letter referenced an e-mail exchange Metz and Gilbert had in March
joe hendricks | sun
The owner of the one-story structure on the right requested the two-story structure on the left be declared as abandoned. regarding the Kokolis property. “The correspondence depicted in your application is an explanation from Mr. Gilbert as to the reasoning behind his issuance of the June 8, 2015 permit. To timely challenge Mr. Gilbert’s reasoning or interpretation justifying the issuance of the permit, an appeal should have been filed no later than July 8, 2015. Thus it is the opinion of this office that the application to appeal is untimely filed, and as such the city is without jurisdiction to review the matter. As a courtesy, the city is refunding your application fee.” In February, Metz e-mailed Gilbert and demanded a response by March 4. “The subject property is zoned C-2 and has a history only as a rental property. Residential rental property is not a permitted use within C-2. The property is therefore nonconforming. The discon-
tinuance of a nonconforming residential use for a period of 18 months, for any reason, shall constitute abandonment and such nonconforming use shall not thereafter be resumed,” Metz wrote. “This building, if allowed to rent four units with merely two parking spaces, will become a neighborhood nightmare,” he added. In his response to Metz, Gilbert provided the professional opinions he and City Planner Alan Garrett shared. “We disagree with several of your assertions. The fact that a building is vacant does not mean it has been abandoned. Buildings are very often vacant, sometimes due to lack of occupants, sometimes due to renovations. It does not mean that the use of the structure has been abandoned,” Gilbert wrote. “An application for foundation repairs was submitted in May of 2015 and
Golfing for God makes a move Golfing for God’s next event will be Wednesday, May 25, at its new location, IMG Academy Golf Club, 4350 El Conquistador Parkway, Bradenton. The Roser Community Churchsponsored event offers a nine-hole scramble for all levels of golfers ($35) or a golf clinic ($40), including dinner and a Bible study led by Dr. Bob O’Keef afterward. Proper golf attire is required (golf shirt with collar, soft spikes; no denim). Non-golfers can attend dinner and the Bible study for $20, including tax and gratuity.
The scramble starts at 3:15 p.m., the golf clinic starts at 4:45 p.m. and dinner and Bible study start at 6:15 p.m. Future dates include Wednesday, June 8, and Wednesday, June 22. For more information, call 941-7780414. Sign up at Roser Church, e-mail bhgrundy@gmail.com, or visit www. roserchurch.com/#/get-involved/golfing-for-god. Golfing for God members played their first scramble at IMG Academy Golf Club last week. CINDY LANE | SUN
repairs began in June of 2015. That may be 15 months without occupants, but with a very clear notice to the city that the use had not been abandoned; and the purpose of the permit was to make repairs to enable continued residential use,” Gilbert wrote. “Your neighbor, Mr. Shearon, was approved for residential use in the Gulf Drive overlay district back in 2002, with special exception for the development and a variance for setback relief,” Gilbert wrote in regard to Mayor Bill Shearon's Linger Longer residence and vacation rental located on the other side of Metz’s property. “The property at 308 Gulf Drive South has been and remains an allowable use due to its location in the Gulf Drive overlay district. As such, we do not consider this property to be a non-conforming use,” Gilbert said of the Kokolis property. “You must demonstrate a direct adverse impact that exceeds in degree the general interest in community good shared by all persons. Your correspondence only speaks to general parking problems and overpopulation,” Gilbert's e-mail said. Before the Kokolis’ bought the property, Metz expressed interest in purchasing it, which he acknowledged in his e-mail to Gilbert. His interest came at a time when there was a sign posted on his fence advertising an L-shaped, three-story retail/ residential development he envisioned building on his property. The rendering indicated a portion of the development would sit between the Kokolis’ property and the beach to the west. To date, Metz has not submitted any permit applications for his development.
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THE SUN
Nesting News Nests laid: 10 False crawls: 10 Nests hatched: 0 Hatchlings to Gulf: 0 Nest disorientations: 0 Not hatched: 0 Nests remaining: 0 Source: Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring
Turtle 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, light sticks, or cell phone 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.
MAY 18, 2016
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MAY 18, 2016
THE SUN
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Speakers unveil variety of topics The winning speaker moves on to the school district level, and if she wins, she’ll compete with speakers statewide. TOM VAUGHT SUN STAFF WRITER | tvaught@amisun.com
HOLMES BEACH – A speech about Girl Scouts and a positive outlook on life propelled fourthgrade student Bryanna Sparks to first place in the Anna Maria Elementary School 4H/Tropicana Speech Contest on Thursday, May 5. Sparks, who is in Becky Demo’s class, praised the Girl Scout program, saying it helps her prepare for the future and any girl who “Knows what she wants and isn’t afraid to get it.” Sparks was one of 15 fourthand fifth-graders to speak. Others who were recognized were Kylie
Huffman, a fourth-grader in Pidge Taylor’s class, who spoke about her autistic brother and suggested others make friends with people who are different. She also summed up her families situation, saying, “Life is about love.”” Third place went to Autumn Kovich, a fifth-grader in Mary Miller’s class who spoke about her type one juvenile diabetes, saying, “I’ve had it since I was 4 1/2 years old and it gives me amazing possibilities for an amazing life.” Ravi Yarlagadda was runner up, speaking about bugs and their place in the environment. The speakers covered subjects such as family travels, the Czech Republic, unnecessary technology, growing up and being positive, spear fishing, hockey, Turtle Watch and kittens. The district speech competition will be held on Saturday, May 21, at the 4H Center, 1303 17th Street West, Palmetto.
BECKY DEMO | SUBMITTED
Bike to school Anna Maria Elementary School celebrated Bike to School Day on Wednesday, May 11. The official date for National Bike to School Day is May 4, but it was canceled due to thunderstorms that morning. All students participated in bike/pedestrian safety presentation during their PE classes. Students were told of the importance of wearing a helmet whenever biking or skating. Approximately 50 students and 20 adults rode from St. Bernard Catholic Church to AME under the supervision of Holmes Beach Police Department.
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D
REAL ESTATE
MAY 18, 2016
Are you a real estate geek?
o you have pajama footies? Do they have clouds or maybe little lambs on them, or something more macho like Superman or tigers? Whatever you have on your footies, and we all know you have them, you can be sure that you’ll be well dressed to shop for your next home and mortgage. In some areas shopping on line has almost overtaken bricks and mortar stores, and while you probably don’t want to purchase a property strictly from an on line posting, you can do a lot of the leg work before you put on your walking shoes. To help you there are many ways to access real estate information on line, all of them free. These are some techniques you can use to get information on properties for sale as well as the value of properties. The gold standard in my opinion, and the one I use almost daily, is Realtor. com. Realtor.com is active in every state and the apps work on desktop
Castles in the Sand Louise Bolger computers as well as smart phones. The site is sponsored by the National Association of Realtors and has access to multiple listing services nationwide, but does not contain for sale by owner at this point. There are a variety of ways to sort information, new properties, selling price, location and it is updated every 15 minutes. Zillow.com also is available on most devices and updates every 15 minutes and pulls from the multiple listing services nationwide as well. They do have historical trends available and of course you can get a Zestimate of your property or another. There is also a recent book
published by Zillow called “Zillow Talk” written by Zillow’s chief economist and their CEO. The book contains some interesting insights relative to real estate buzz words like cute and quaint as well as the best neighborhoods to buy into. Trulia.com like the other two provides most of the same property listings but they also focus on the area’s lifestyle like stores, restaurants, crime statistics and transportation. They have a “walk score” to assess how easy it is to do errands but does not provide home value estimates. Finally redfin.com covers 75 metropolitan areas and will connect you with a salaried Redfin buyer’s agent. Redfin is more of a virtual realtor then strictly an information source. Another good source of information is you’re old buddy Google. I find that if I put in the address of a property I may have driven by or one with a for sale sign I will most times get a hit
that takes me to a realtor website and the price. Also every multiple listing realtor has a website that will give you the ability to search the local multiple listing service. In addition, our local realtor board, the Realtor Association of Sarasota and Manatee, has multiple listing properties on their website. And if you’re still in your footies after you found a home and want some mortgage information no need to change. Big mortgage lenders and banks all have websites that will give you most of the information you’re looking for and even the ability upload the necessary documents like W2s, 1099s, bank statements, tax returns, etc. Wells Fargo even has a loan tracker feature; however, you will still need to show up in person to sign the forms per the federal regulations. So sit back relax and dress or not however you want. Like the Yellow Pages advertising use to say “let your fingers do the walking” or in this case your mouse.
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MAY 18, 2016
THE SUN
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Trial set for Key Royale lawsuit The lawsuit involving a home at 626 Key Royale Drive will go to trial in November. BY PAT COPELAND SUN STAFF WRITER | pcopeland@amisun.com
HOLMES BEACH – A lawsuit involving Leah Marie Enterprises and its majority member, Kathleen Morgan, against the city of Holmes Beach and former Mayor Carmel Monti will go to trial in November, City Attorney Patricia Petruff announced at last week’s City Commission meeting. The issue began in January 2014 when the building official shut down the construction site at the home at 626 Key Royale Drive, stating that the contractor could only remove and replace a maximum of 30 percent of the roof structure. He maintained the work exceeded the 30 percent. The issue went to the Florida Building Commission, which ruled in Morgan’s favor and in September 2014, Morgan’s attorney, David Johnson, filed a Bert Harris Property Rights Protection notice.
In December 2014, the city made a settlement offer, and Johnson asked the court compel the city to issue a building permit. The case continued into 2015, when in March, Johnson rejected the city’s offer and filed a Bert Harris complaint seeking a jury trial. The city filed a motion to dismiss the complaint regarding the Bert Harris action in April, and in July, a judge denied the motion. Also in July, Johnson filed a complaint with four counts against the city and former Mayor Carmel Monti – fraud, negligent misrepresentation, negligence and defamation. The city responded and Johnson replied. In August, the city and Monti filed a motion to dismiss the lawsuit to which Johnson replied. In October, the judge dismissed the first two counts of the lawsuit. Johnson then filed the first amended complaint and the city filed a motion to dismiss the counts of fraud, negligent misrepresentation and defamation and seek a more definitive statement on the count of negligence.
Pat copeland | SUN
This house at 626 Key Royale Drive that is subject to a lawsuit has boarded up areas and materials on the roof. Johnson then opposed the motion to dismiss. In May he filed a motion to consolidate the amended complaint
and the Bert Harris action, which a judge is scheduled to hear June 28.
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MAY 18, 2016
Johnson: Seeking second term FROM PAGE 1
with an attitude of customer service.” Johnson said another issue was the lack of performance management. “We had no way of looking at the process or if it was being performed well,” he said. “We had a prehistoric IT operation and archives of paper files, but no data base that was retrievable.” He said the city implemented the CitizenServe system that took it “from
dark to light” and added, “We can now manage ourselves and be proactive and deliver service to our customers. “The real key is how everybody works as a team within departments and across departments and how we can improve the operations. “I want teamwork and process management fully imbedded. We have the first layer in the maturation of this city, and that’s not something I can walk away from.”
He said one thing he is particularly proud of is how the three Island cities have been cooperating, especially in the areas of drainage and an Island-wide bike path. He said the money the city has saved with this cooperation, such as sharing start up costs, has enabled the city to do more with its money, including a project at Spring Lake. “Stability is really important right
now,” he concluded. “I firmly believe in the confirmation of that through elections. I look for the citizens’ confidence in me to bring positive change to the city of Holmes Beach.” Chair Judy Titsworth and Commissioner Marvin Grossman have said they also plan to run for reelection. Qualifying begins at noon on June 20 and ends at noon on June 24.
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MAY 18, 2016
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mayor: Adapting to limited role FROM PAGE 4
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RPS (request for professional services) for your accountability; • Department activities that exceed your budget or spending limit will require prior commission approval; • My discretionary spending will require pre-approval.â€? The mayor’s note concluded by saying, “With limited leadership authority, I will try to assist you complying with five supervisors.â€? The mayor’s discretionary spending limit and the request for professional services policy will be discussed at the Thursday, May 19 meeting. Supporting documentation submitted by City Clerk Terri Sanclemente indicates the possibility of lowering the mayor’s current $2,000 spending limit to the $1,000 limit that was in effect before it was raised in 2014, during Shearon’s first term as mayor. Without the need for commis-
With limited leadership authority, I will try to assist you complying with five supervisors.� Bill Shearon Bradenton Beach Mayor sion approval, Shearon can use his discretionary spending allowance on services provided by the city attorney, an outside attorney, the city engineer and others in order to address an issue or assist a department head who is limited to spending $250 for professional services not approved by the commission. Adjusting the mayor’s discretionary spending limit was first discussed during the commission work meetings that produced Ordinance 16-467.
The ordinance states department heads are to be supervised by the commission as a whole and not by the mayor individually. When the new ordinance was discussed and adopted on first reading during the May 5 meeting, Shearon said its adoption would result in him not using his discretionary spending allowance to assist department heads. The second and final reading of Ordinance 16-467 will also take place at the May 19 meeting.
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pier: Funding offers tendered FROM PAGE 1
space at the T-end of the city-owned pier. “It was a fact-finding meeting, not a negotiation,” Murphy said, noting that he needs commission approval to negotiate with Schoenfelder. “He will pay a quarter million dollars of refurbishment, but it’s contingent on a renegotiation of the lease to a 10-year lease. The absolute bottom line is a 10year lease,” Murphy said. “He made a second offer. He would cover the whole half-million problem with a 10-year lease, but with two years free rent. In other words, he’s forwarding us the money. We would have the half-million identified, but we would have to go two years without rent payment; and under both scenarios, for any down time, he wants to be compensated with no rent,” Murphy explained. Schoenfelder’s letter stated he is willing to $12,000 a month for the first five years of a renewed lease, preceded by two rent-free years. After seven years, he is willing to pay $13,500 for the remaining three years of a renegotiated lease. “If the commission decides against my offer and still wants to perform the rehabilitation before the existing
lease expires, the city would need to determine whether TCPR Inc. would be compensated for the loss of income or get an extension of the existing lease to compensate for the time of rehabilitation,” Schoenfelder wrote. Schoenfelder entered into a 10-year lease with the city in 2000, and it was later extended until 2020. According to the lease, his monthly rent is currently $9,420 and increases to $10,800 in late 2018. “I’m not asking for your vote tonight, for the primary reason that we’re missing Commissioner (Carol) Carter,” Murphy said. “I think this is a very important issue and I think it requires full commission input.” That vote is scheduled for Thursday, May 26 In regard to the county’s offer, Murphy said, “The county will forward-fund $250,000 required to do the permitting, engineering and that type of work. That’s going to take two years. Our half-portion would be due at the completion of that phase. They will not forward-fund the actual construction itself. They will match on a pay-as-yougo basis. They want us to be totally responsible for the project management, which would be included in the
MAY 18, 2016
The verbiage this afternoon was if you want to do something different you’re on your own.” Dan Murphy Anna Maria Mayor
$2 million cost. All these county funds are contingent on using their approved engineering firm. The verbiage this afternoon was if you want to do something different you’re on your own,” Murphy said. According to Charlie Hunsicker, the director of the Manatee County Parks and Natural Resources Department, the county’s preferred engineering firm is CB&I, the firm who prepared the original pier feasibility report, with Bridge Design Associates as their subcontractor. If county funds are used, CB&I would be responsibile for the design, permitting and construction documents needed for the pier rehabilitation. Manatee County would secure these services and complete the reports, construction drawings and state environmental permits only for the pier structure itself. “The city would be responsible for the design, permitting and preparation of construction drawings for any struc-
tural or utility reconstruction supporting vendor or lease-based activities on the pier. The county will work in close coordination with the mayor, city commission and their staff throughout the multi-year design and permitting process,” Hunsicker said, when contacted later in the week. “Competitive selection of a qualified contractor to conduct the reconstruction according to the plans and specifications will be the responsibility of the city,” Hunsicker said. If the city commission authorizes Murphy to negotiate with Schoenfelder, those discussions will take place in a setting that is open to the public and the press. Murphy said he does not want to risk subjecting the city to a lawsuit similar to the one filed against the city of Bradenton Beach alleging Sunshine violations occurred when that’s city’s pier lease was negotiated last summer.
MAY 18, 2016
WWW.AMISUN.COM - CELEBRATING 15 YEARS
THE SUN
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CVB: promotion irks Bolts’ fans FROM PAGE 1
“Anna Maria Island” “Longboat Key” and “BradentonGulfIslands.com.” When the story went viral, the online backlash included a call for potential visitors to boycott the Bradenton area. Fan reaction prompted CVB officials to issue a press release explaining the ad placement. “We have and will continue to support the Tampa Bay Lightning through our annual marketing initiatives and wish both teams the best of luck,” CVB Executive Director Elliott Falcione said in the statement. The press release mentioned deep roots to the Pittsburgh area due to the Pittsburgh Pirates holding their spring training activities in Bradenton, and it said marketing campaigns with Pittsburgh sports teams increased visitation from that area by 37 percent. “It’s a great way to get our brand in front of a demographic that meshes with our visitor profile,” Falcione said. On Sunday, CVB Communications Director Kelly Clark said, “The towels were not sent to the Penguins. We did not produce them; they are given out at every Penguins’ playoff game. Each game has a different ad on it. The cost to have our brand on the towels was $6,000. The advertising buy was not made to back or cheer for any team; they represent our organization’s objective to drive visitors to our area. We remain a proud sponsor and marketing partner of the Tampa Bay Lightning, investing more
submitted
Left, this promotional towel distributed last week at a hockey game in Pittsburgh raised eyebrows in the greater Tampa Bay area. Swordfish Grill General Manager Bob Slicker and Manager Greg Koeper, joined by Kathy Houck and Scott O’Brien, use the Shot-Ski to honor the Bolts. than three times the amount we invest with the Penguins.” Clark was asked if the CVB staff was aware the towels would be distributed at a game against the Lightning. “We were contacted by the Penguins marketing staff before they were matched up. We had the opportunity to be in front of thousands of potential visitors at a very low cost. I happen to be a huge Lightning fan and I was not offended even after it was clear they would be playing the Bolts.” The CVB’s tourism promotions are funded by the county resort tax, about half of which is generated by accommodations on Anna Maria Island. “At no time does the CVB use or invest ad valorem tax or sales tax proceeds to promote our area for tourism,” Clark said. On Monday, Clark said the CVB was looking into the financial feasibility of doing additional
promotion at a Lightning home game, and there are no plans for additional sponsorship at an upcoming Penguins game.
Local reaction
Resort owner and Bridge Street Merchants association president Angela Rodocker was asked about the advertising effort. “I don’t believe that is it is the intent to divide our team spirit, yet what an amazing opportunity to advertise our area to a target market. I have faith the CVB will take this into consideration going forward,” she said. Many residents voiced displeasure to Anna Maria Mayor Dan Murphy. “I have received numerous calls regarding the CVB message. I assured those who called that the city of Anna Maria was not behind that effort, but unfortunately our name is on the towels,” he said Sunday morning. Bradenton Beach Code Enforcement Officer
Gail Garneau said the towels were the subject of scorn at a neighborhood party she attended in Anna Maria Saturday night. “As a sports fan, I take issue with the CVB spending money to rally against the home team,” she said. The Swordfish Grill and Flippin’ Mullet Sports Bar in Cortez has become a popular spot to watch Lightning games and General Manager Bob Slicker is a season ticket holder. “We love the Lightning here and we would prefer the CVB support our home team. Besides, we use beach towels, not those little crying towels the Penguins’ fans will use when they lose,” he said. Those who watch a Lightning playoff game at the Flippin’ Mullet and stay until the end of the second period receive a free raffle ticket. “When the Bolts win the series, one lucky ticket holder will be going to a Stanley Cup Final game with me,” Slicker proclaimed.
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FUN IN THE SUN
Across 1 Pricey 6 Place for a chicken 10 Herring prized for its roe 14 Use a lectern 15 A fan of 16 Tortilla snack 17 With 59-Across, words from a fictional mariner ... and a hint to both parts of 26-, 31-, 42- and 47-Across 19 Any minute now, to a bard 20 Tampa-to-Jacksonville dir. 21 Frosty coat 22 Fern-to-be 23 Criticize sneakily 26 Oil conduit 28 Chef's tool 30 Fire, or fire-fighting tool 31 Electricity source 34 Astronaut Grissom 37 Incriminate with false evidence 38 __-Locka, Florida 39 Emaciated 41 Messy spot 42 Reaganomics term 44 __ Kan: Alpo rival 46 Fit as a fiddle and tough as nails 47 Primary entrance 52 Exams for would-be attys. 53 Shore eagles 54 Object of worship 56 Dick's wife, twice 58 __-Seltzer 59 See 17-Across 62 Safe document 63 Left
64 Conundrum 65 They may be split or tight 66 __ buco: veal dish 67 Make a mess of Down 1 Seeded 2 Convey 3 Completely eroded 4 Nice season? 5 Part of 60-Down 6 "Ta-ta" 7 Coming up next 8 Ferrell's "SNL" cheerleading partner 9 __ favor: Pedro's "please" 10 Paper clip alternative 11 Onetime capital of French Indochina 12 Oak nut 13 Charity, say 18 Puppy 22 Masters and Johnson subject 24 Agenda line 25 Partner of simple 27 First lady after Lady Bird
Answers to 05-11-16 Crossword Puzzle.
28 Suntan lotion numbers, briefly 29 Baseball's Matty or Felipe 32 Droid download 33 Snoozes 34 Free from blame 35 Not wanted 36 Fr. holy women 39 Places with rings and horses 40 Massive land mass 42 Gp. that kidnapped Patty Hearst 43 Big name in pharmaceuticals 44 Works on, as dough 45 Top prosecutors: Abbr. 47 Maryland's Fort __ 48 "Over the Rainbow" composer Harold 49 Signed in pen 50 DVR devices 51 Blissful places 55 Treat often split 57 Nothing 59 __ trip 60 Typing meas. 61 __ polloi
MAY 18, 2016
MAY 18, 2016
classified
ANNOUNCEMENTS
CLEANING SERVICE
FOR SALE
THE BEST VOLUNTEER position on the island. The AMI Historical Museum needs docents and bread makers. Call Dusty at 941779-7688.
C & T HOUSEKEEPING. For all your cleaning needs. Free Estimates. Reasonable rates. Senior discount. References available. Call 941-9622512
A BEACHY PLACE 9908C Gulf Drive AMI. Coastal Furniture and Decor in Beautiful Beachy Colors, Tables, Bookcase, Benches and More!
ROSER FOOD BANK needs donations of cash and non-perishable food. Donations boxes are located at the Church, Moose Club, Walgreen's and The Anna Maria Island Sun Newspaper (corner of Gulf and Palm).
CLEANING: RESIDENTIAL, COMMERCIAL & RENTALS. "Have it done your way, we care about our work" Call 941-7564570 PRESSURE CLEANING and WINDOW WASHING residential, commercial & resorts. Roofs, buildings, houses, driveways. Paver Sealing & Cleaning etc. Call 941-565-3935
AUTOMOTIVE SALES & SERVICE GOT A CAR You Wanna Sell. The Good, The Bad or The Ugly. Call Now 727-400-1910
BABY SITTER ISLAND BABYSITTERS and House sitters: Educated, Experienced, Reliable, CPR, Friendly, Chef. Call Jennie 860-617-2004 RED CROSS CERTIFIED baby sitter. Honor student. Call or text Isabel 941-5457995
BICYCLE REPAIR ISLAND MOBILE BICYCLE Repair. "I will come to you." Reasonable Prices. Please Call Rick 941-5459683.
BOATS: PARTS & SERVICES & SALES ISLAND BOAT SALES. Selling Your Boat? 16 Years, Hundreds Of Boats Sold. "Business On A Hand Shake." www.Islandboatsales. net Call Dave- 941228-3489 BAYLINER 2655 (26') CRUISER/FISHERMAN. Perko Rod Holders. On Island, locally maintained $8900 OBO. Call 941-3561456
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
Call us today! 941-778-3986
COMMERCIAL SALES/ LEASES/RENTALS
PRIME COMMERCIAL LOCATION (2 Lots) 12,840 sq. ft. Located on Gulf Dr. in the City of Anna Maria, close to the beach and surrounded by shopping. Business on a tropical island! Island Real Estate Ask Al Galletto 941-232-2216
COMPUTER SERVICES EMPIRE COMPUTER SERVICE Computer problems fixed in your home or office. The fastest friendliest service around. Serving the Island since 2004. Call 941-739-6424
EMPLOYMENT
PART TIME at AMI Gift Shop. Must be able to work, nights & weekends. Retiree's Welcome Call 813 -409-7540 SEASONAL DAY TIME Help Needed for Scott's Deli. Apply 5337 Gulf Dr Suite 300, Holmes Beach. THE CENTER of AMI is looking for a licensed Family Support Director to provide counseling. Masters degree required. Contact The Center at 941778-1908. THE CENTER of AMI is looking for a Director of First Impressions. Full time position. Contact The Center at 941-778-1908.
GARAGE, MOVING, RUMMAGE & YARD SALES ROSER THRIFT SHOP and Annex: Open 9:30 a.m.2p.m. Tuesday and Thursday and 10a.m.-1pm.Saturday. Donations accepted 9-11a.m. on Wednesday. 511 Pine Ave. Anna Maria. 941-779-2733. SALE! SALE! SALE! Palma Sola Thrift Shop 35% to 75% off. Thursday thru Sunday. 9516 Cortez Road West (take Cortez Bridge go 2 miles then right at Fidelity Bank into Mount Vernon Plaza) 941-812-7679. 9 1/2 years collecting furniture & home decor
HOME IMPROVEMENTS TILE! TILE! TILE! All variations of tile supplied and installed. Quality workmanship. Prompt, reliable, many Island references. Free estimates. Neil 941-726-3077 RENOVATION SPECALIST ALL carpentry repairs, Wash Family Construction, locally owned and operated CBC 1258250 Call 941-7250073. KERN CONSTRUCTION NEW Homes & Remodel. Design/Build. Since 1968. License # CRC1327296. Call Jerry Kern 941-5042222 www.kernconstructioninc.com “HONEY DO" HOME Repairs & Handyman Services. 35 yrs experience. Painting, drywall, tile, woodwork. All tasks. Call 941-896-5256 or 941-807-5256 www.honeydohomerepairinc.com HANDYMAN. RETIRED ENGINEER. Free estimates. “No job too Small”. Repairs, replacements, improvements, wall TV’s, shelves, cabinets, calking etc. Call Jim 941-448-7806
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GET’R DONE DRYWALL, INC Specializing in Remodels & Repairs. Island Resident for 18 years. Call Neil Cell 941-962-1194. JOE UNGVARSY CONSTRUCTION Concept to Permit. State License CRC 035261. "Like No Other." Call 941-779-4630 or email juremodel1@aol.com BESPOKE SERVICES ISLAND repair & maintenance. Professional carpenter. Decking, Dock repairs & treatments. Household repairs and decorating, Power washing/cleaning, decks patios, docks, drives, pool areas. Island Resident for Island work. Keep it Local Call Richard 941448-3571
LANDSCAPING & LAWN CARE
STRAIGHT SHOT LANDSCAPING. Save water, gas, maintenance fees and the environment! Shell your yard. $50/yd installed. Call Shark Mark 941-301-6067 R. GAROFALO’S Interlocking brick pavers, driveways, patios, pool decks. Free estimates. Licensed & Insured. Call Rafael 941-778-4823 or Veronik 941-526-7941 SHELL DELIVERED AND spread $50/yd. Hauling all kinds of gravel, mulch, top soil with free estimates. Call Larry at 941-795-7775, "shell phone" 941-720-0770
LOST & FOUND FOUND DRIVERS LICENSE and Credit Card on 200 block of 78th St, Holmes Beach on Sunday May 15. Please go by Holmes Beach Police Station to claim. FOUND SATURDAY AFTERNOON on Crescent Ave. Unique Ladies costume ring. Call 941-778-5090 LOST WHITE GOLD diamond ring. Antique looking. It has a hinge which opens up. Sentimental value. Reward. Call 941504-9502
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MISSING BLACK AND WHITE male cat. Lucky is deaf and 15 years old. He was last seen on 2nd St in Bradenton Beach where he has lived outdoors for 4 years. Reward. Heartbroken. 941-730-7052 LOST CAT “FIDO” He adopted us 16 years ago. His turf is in the area of 5392 Gulf Dr. near Time Saver and Niki’s . Has collar with a bell, chipped by Animal Clinic. If found please call 941-518-6329.
MOVING & STORAGE MARTIN’S MOVING YOUR Island movers! Offering dependable, competitive rates. No hidden costs. 941-809-5777. TWO MEN and a TRUCK. Movers who care. Local and Long distance. www. twomen.com Call 941-3591904. We sell boxes!
PAINTING & WALLCOVERING PAINT! PAINT! AND MORE 28 years of experienced interior/exterior custom painting. Pressure cleaning, drywall repairs and texture finishes. Many Island references. Please call Neil for free estimates. 941-812-0507 WALY PRECISION PAINTING custom painting, pressure washing, commercial/residential, interior/exterior, drywall/stucco, Licensed & insured. Call 941-448-1928 or 941-580-4005 www. WalyPrecisionPainting.com “WIZARD OF WALLS” Established 1980 Prompt quality service. Paperhanging/removal Faux finishes. Interior painting. Mary Bell 941794-0455
PETS ARE YOU WANTING to vacation and not worry if your pet is lonely. I will overnight in your home, so your animal can stay in his own environment. Home Sitting is also available. Great References. Call Mary 941-405-2496
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POOL SERVICES FOUR SEASONS POOL SERVICE. AMI & West Bradenton. Certified Pool Operator. Residential/commercial. Chemical Service Licensed & Insured. Call Dennis Clark 941-737-5657 COLE'S TROPICAL POOL SERVICE Call Cole Bowers for all your pool maintenance needs! Affordable and Dependable!! 941-7131893
REAL ESTATE HOMES & CONDOS FOR SALE
DISCOVER THE OTHER ISLAND! Tidy Island in Sarasota Bay. Beautiful Townhouse w/direct bay views! 3BR/2.5 BA/ 2 CG with private swimming pool. Open plan. Pet friendly. $699,000 Katharine Pepper RoseBay Intl 941-792-9459 W. BRADENTON CONDO 4000sq.ft. Canal front Bay view 3+BR/3.5BA Bonus room dock lift 2 car Island Real Estate Call AL Galletto 941-2322216 NEW HOMES at MIRABELLA FLORIDA. Starting from the mid 200’s. Only minutes from the beaches, this new active adult community is perfectly located just south of Manatee Ave, off Village Green Pkwy. Perfectly designed, open floor plans, 2BR/2BA plus den and 2CG. Luxurious amenities, pool, spa, gym, pickle ball, pet friendly community. HOA only $190/month. Models open daily. Contact us 941-254-3330 www. MirabellaFlorida.com NEW LISTING BEST Value in Harbour Isle 1994 sf 2BR + Den. Loaded with upgrades, End unit. Open plan, Overlooking Reserve. $492,500 Karen Fineout Wagner Realty Call 941-518-3682 229 CHILSON 3BR/3BA. New, pool, canal with no bridges to Bay. Walk to Beach. $1,250,000. Call Charles Buky Coldwell Banker 941-228-6086
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REAL ESTATE HOMES & CONDOS FOR SALE W. BRADENTON TANGLEWOOD Patio Home off 59th St. 3BR/2BA with 2 car garage & Community pool. Fenced yard, Pet friendly $180,000 Call Gayle Schulz, Simpson South Realty at 941-8126489
RENTALS: ANNUAL WATER FRONT PROPERTY Available June 1. 2BR/2BA water view with dock on Anna Maria Sound. Open floor plan, new rear deck pavers being installed. Waiting list for applicants. $1850, first, and security. Background & credit required for all occupants over 18 years old. 1BR EFFICIENCY in town, 1 bath NO PETS, no W/D 650sf water, sewer, gas, electric, included $800/ mo $800 sec dep. Background check required $40 Available 6/1. Ask for Ed. DUNCAN REAL ESTATE 941-779-0304 www.teamduncan.com
Call us today! 941-778-3986
ANNUAL RENTAL and CONDOMINIUM Association management serviced by (2) offices open 7 days a week! Contact junew@ islandreal.com – 941-3451295 - Island Real Estate of Anna Maria Island, Inc.
HOLMES BEACH: RENEWABLE Long Term Lease Available 2BR/2BA. Steps to Beach, Shops, Restaurants & Trolley. No smoking/No pets. Very Clean $1550/mo First, last & security. Call 860-922-3857
3BR/2BA ELEVATED, pet friendly, furnished duplex with garage $2500. 3BR/2BA Furnished Bayfront condo in Mariners Cove $2500. Contact A Paradise 941-778-4800
WEST BRADENTON HOUSE Cute 2BR/2BA plus family room. W/D hookups, car port, large yard. $1300/mo. First, Last, Security. Credit check Available May 1. Call 941-809-2488 text for info tyxq to 26971
ANNUAL RENTAL Bradenton Beach, 3BR/2BA home, view of Intracoastal. Unfurnished. $2,100/mo First, last, and security required. Call Sato Real Estate, Inc. at 941-778-7200 or email monica@satorealestate.com NORTHWEST BRADENTON single family home in Village Green. 2BR/2BA w/ 2 car garage, small pet with approval. $1400/mo. First, last and security required. Available May 1st. Call June at Island Real Estate 941-345-1295
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3BR/2BA TOP FLOOR condo in Bradenton Beach. Washer/ Dryer, Private Elevator, 3 Car Garage. Partial Gulf Views! 1 block to beach. Furnished or Unfurnished. Small pet considered. $3,000/ mo. First/Last/Security. Gulf-Bay Realty 941-7787244 TOWNHOUSE WEST BRADENTON. 2BR/2.5BA. Lake view, gated, community pool. $1200/mo Real Estate Mart 941-356-1456
MAY 18, 2016
RENTALS: SEASONAL & VACATION TIFFANY PLACE Gulf Front Condo for Rent Incredible views from living room and master bedroom. 2BR/2BA Green Real Estate Call 941-778-0455 ANNA MARIA ISLAND, Fl Condos. Pool beach access, fully equipped $650-$800/ wk Redekercondos.com 941-704-7525 or 941-7781915 WILLKOMMEN AUF AMI! Besuchen Sie Island Real Estate in einem unserer Inselbüros (6101 Marina Drive oder 419 Pine Ave) mit unserem deutschsprachigen Reservierungsservice und erhalten ein freies Island Real Estate Baseball Cap! Wir geben Ihnen gerne mehr Auskunft über unsere 250 ausgewählte Feriendomizile für Ihren nächsten Urlaub!
TRANSPORTATION AMI TAXI metered-on-callcards accepted. Airport: Tampa $85, Sarasota $35, Clearwater $75, Fort Meyers $150, Orlando $150. Call 800-301-4816. amitaxi4u@gmail.com, www. amitaxi.com ROGER'S AIRPORT SERVICE. Tampa, St. Pete/ Clearwater, Sarasota/ Bradenton. Call Roger 941773-1469 ANYTIME TRANSPORTATION to all airports, appointments, casino, cruises, etc. Tampa $60. Sarasota $30. Pets welcome. Very dependable. Reasonable rates. Contact Jeanne. 941-779-5095 ADMIRAL TOWN CAR Professional chauffeur, taxi prices! Airports (1@ $75, 10 $150 to Tampa), Appointments anywhere. Credit cards accepted. Phil 941-320-1120 admiraltowncar@gmail.com, Licensed & Insured
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MAY 18, 2016
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MAY 18, 2016