Anna Maria Island Sun November 8 2017

- Named Best Florida Newspaper In Its Class -

VOL 18 No. 4

Dogs on the beach!

November 8, 2017

TOM VAUGHT | SUN

The Sandblast sand sculpting contest had a little something for everyone over the weekend, including dog lovers. Story and photos on Page 22.

Metz defense challenges Sunshine Law No court hearings are expected until January at the earliest.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

BRADENTON BEACH – Lawsuit defendant John Metz and his attorney, Thomas Shults, claim the Florida Sunshine Law is unconstitutional.

“Mr. Metz feels the entire Sunshine Law is unconstitutional. He wants to say the Florida Legislature has gotten it

INSIDE NEWS 4 OPINION 6 Sun survey 7 outdoors 26-27 sean murphy 29 entertainment 30 real estate 34-39 real estate top sellers 39

wrong,” City Attorney Ricinda Perry told city commissioners on Nov. 2.

Enacted in 1995, Florida Statute 286.011 is a series of laws enacted to ensure government meetings are conducted in a public setting and that the public has access to public records.

The claims of unconstitutionality are contained in the answer and affirmative defense of John Metz that Shults filed with the 12th Judicial Court in Bradenton on Oct. 30. see metz, page 40

Planning for dog park improvements begins

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

HOLMES BEACH – Work is underway to bring fresh ideas and upgraded facilities to the city’s dog park.

Users from both the small and large dog parks gathered with Parks and Beautification Committee members Nov. 1. Talks began to decide what changes are needed in the park. The first one suggested is to enlarge both parks.

Mayor Bob Johnson presented com-

The sun captures

17 statewide awards for excellence in journalism. 3

Anna Maria Island, Florida

The Island’s award-winning weekly newspaper

mittee members and guests with an aerial photo of the park showing his suggestion to move the fence closer to Flotilla Drive to include more space for dogs and several established shade trees. Longtime dog park advocate Renae Ferguson applauded the idea. She added that the mature trees would reduce the need to add more trees to the park and provide muchneeded shade for pets and owners.

A large point of concern for ussee dog park, page 40

Thanksgiving PIE IS NOT TO BE MISSED. IN FOOD & WINE. 21 The sun’s salute to veterans

begins right here at home. 24 www.amisun.com

2

THE SUN

www.amisun.com

NOVEMBER 8, 2017

www.amisun.com

NOVEMBER 8, 2017

THE SUN

3

Sun earns 17 state awards The Anna Maria Island Sun has earned 17 awards in the Florida Press Club’s 66th Excellence in Journalism Competition, including five first place trophies for opinion writing, breaking news photography, feature photography, sports photography and cartooning.

The awards, presented at Hotel Indigo in Sarasota on Saturday, Nov. 4 are:

Sports Photography

Mike Field, 1st place, The ‘Big M’ Mike Field, 3rd place, The mayors have it right

Cindy Lane, 2nd place, Eat more octopus

Opinion Writing

Breaking News Photography

Tom Vaught, 1st place, Soggy Monday Blues Mike Field, 2nd place, Red tide continues to plague AMI Tom Vaught, 3rd place, First day of school

Feature Photography

Maggie Field, 1st place, Silver Sunset Maggie Field, 2nd place, Meltdown Joe Sambito, 3rd place, Holiday Moon

Monica Simpson, 1st place, Redemption

Cartooning

Steve Borggren, 1st place, Beautiful sunrise Steve Borggren, 2nd place, Brick road Steve Borggren, 3rd place, Ghost tour

Special Awards – That is so…

Florida

Government News Writing

Kristin Swain, 2nd place, Turn back time

Headline Writing

Mike Field, 2nd place, Houndfish Pat Copeland, 3rd place, Pooh-pooh

Front Page Design

Ricardo Fonseca, 3rd place, Rays

tom vaught | sun

The photo above won Tom Vaught first place in the breaking news photography categor, while the cartoon at right was honored with a first for Sun cartoonist Steve Borggren.

Steve Borggren | sun

4

THE SUN

ISLAND NEWS

in brief

Election coverage at Sun website Visit www.amisun.com Tuesday night and also later in the week for up to date coverage on the Tuesday, Nov. 7, city elections in Anna Maria, Bradenton Beach and Holmes Beach. The election results were not known when The Sun went to press this week.

It’s artsHOP time Every year, the Island’s arts community comes together to present artsHOP, a celebration of the arts, and this year it begins with the Holmes Beach Gallery Walk on Friday, Nov. 10, from 5 to 7:30 p.m.

There will be local artwork on display, art demonstrations, refreshments, live music, art raffles and an opportunity to meet the artists.

Marti Salerni will display her latest “Petal Away” themed watercolors, and Chip Ragsdale will entertain with acoustical guitar at Island Gallery West.

The Artist’s Guild of Anna Maria Island will display work by members, many of whom will be there and there also will be live music. The Anna Maria Island Art League’s reception will conclude its juried allmedia art exhibit, “Faces of Emotion,” with winners in attendance. Restless Natives will offer local artists Karen Prunier, with a reflections in clay demo, Patricia Clarke with her hot glass demo and new Restless Natives addition, “HowLuckyAMI.” Those who visit all the galleries can have their passports stamped to be eligible for prize baskets of local, original art.

There will also be an ice cream social and museum tour at the AMI Historical Museum on Pine Avenue in Anna Maria following the Veteran’s Day events at City Pier Park on Friday, Nov. 10.

Cultural Connections is a partial sponsor of artsHOP and business sponsors include Anna Maria Vacations, Duncan Real Estate, Lapensee Plumbing, Sato Real Estate, Gagne Construction, Island Mail and More, Abrahamson Uiterwyk, Historic Green Village, Beach House, Island Coffee Haus, Egmont Key Adventures and Flip Flop Candy Shop.

Other events ties to artsHOP include the public reception of “10byTEN” to celebrate the 10th anniversary of The Studio at Gulf and Pine and the Island Players performance of “The Game’s Afoot” at 8 p.m., both on Thursday, Nov. 9.

Island mayors host food drive As the holidays approach, thoughts turn to those less fortunate. This holiday season, the three Island mayors are challenging the community to help out those who might go without by participating in the Mayors Feed the Hungry program.

The food drive is ongoing through Nov. 17. Needed items are non-perishable canned and packaged foods. Collection boxes are located at Anna Maria, Bradenton Beach and Holmes Beach city halls.

Alternate collection locations are at both entrances to the Holmes Beach Police Department. For more information, visit www.MayorsFeedTheHungry.org.

Visit our website, www.amisun.com.

Scan this code with your smartphone to go there.

NOVEMBER 8, 2017

Letter affirms Confederate monument opposition

The Veterans Council recommends the monument be relocated to the Gamble Plantation Historic Park in Ellenton.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

BRADENTON – Manatee County commissioners face opposition from the Manatee County Veteran’s Council on placing a historic Confederate monument in Veterans Park.

Veterans Council chairman Carl Hunsinger sent County Commission Chairwoman Betsy Benac a two-page letter on Oct. 21 detailing the council’s position. On Oct. 19, the council voted 16-1 in opposition to the monument being placed at the park.

“As you are no doubt aware, the Manatee County Veterans Council has had a number of spirited discussions regard the County Commission’s recommendation to relocate the Confederate statue previously located at the historic courthouse to either Veterans Park or to Gamble Plantation Historic Park. The Veterans Council cannot endorse the commission’s current recommendation,” Hunsinger’s letter began.

The local Judah P. Benjamin Chapter of the United Daughters of the Confederacy erected the memorial monument in 1924. In August, the county commission ordered the monument to be removed from its location in front of the Manatee County Historic Courthouse. The courthouse building now serves as the Clerk of the Court’s office.

The commission requested the removal due to public safety concerns raised before and after a large protest took place in the courthouse square.

The granite monument was damaged and fractured while being removed.

It is currently being stored in an undisclosed location until county commissioners decide where to put it next.

The plan is to repair the monument after it’s moved to its new location.

Hunsinger’s letter noted the Veterans Council represents approximately 40,000 veterans who also are county voters.

“With the Veterans Council responsibility to protect the original intent for Veterans Park, ensuring that only

joe hendricks | SUN

On Oct. 21, the Manatee County Veterans Council voted 16-1 against the monument joining the existing war monuments and memorials at Veterans Park. The memorial Confederate monument stood in front of the historic courthouse in downtown Bradenton until Aug. 24.

joe hendricks | SUN

veterans serving the uniformed services of the United States of America be honored, and only those individuals from Manatee County would have their names memorialized on the walls, statues or memorials contained within Veterans Park. And please remember, these walls, statues and monuments were funded by private donations,” the letter states.

“Throughout our discussions, we have focused not only on what is best for Veterans Park, but also what is best for Manatee County. With the contentious nature of this issue, we believe there is significant risk of damage to present monuments, plaques, etc. contained within Veterans Park should the Confederate statue be relocated there. This, along with other issues, formed the basis for the overwhelming majority of council members to not endorse the county commission recommendation.

“However, our non-concurrence does not mean we do not have a recommendation. The council believes

commission was on the right track in proposing relocation of the statue to Gamble Plantation Historic Park.

Therefore, the Veterans Council strongly urges the county commissioners to expeditiously move forward and work with the state of Florida on relocating the statue to Gamble Plantation,” Hunsinger’s letter concludes.

County Commissioner Carol Whitmore said county officials have been in contact with state officials about the Gamble Mansion location.

“We are waiting to hear back from them,” she said last week.

According to the Gamble Plantation Historic Park website, it is believed Confederate Secretary of State Judah P. Benjamin took refuge in the mansion after the fall of the South, until he could arrange for safe passage to England.

In 1925, the United Daughters of the Confederacy saved the mansion and the 16 acres of land on which it stands in Ellenton. Guided tours are now given six days a week.

www.amisun.com

NOVEMBER 8, 2017

THE SUN

5

Skate park improvements underway

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

HOLMES BEACH – After being closed for several months, work is getting underway to reopen the gates of the Holmes Beach Skate Park.

Though commissioners allocated $100,000 to the Parks and Beautification Committee for improvements, City Engineer Lynn Burnett is already hard at work to make changes to the aging skate park. During a discussion with commissioners, Burnett revealed she’s already in talks with contractors to replace the current fencing and gates to make the park safer for users. She also is attempting to have a specialist come to the city to evaluate the existing skate ramps and obstacles. Part of the evaluation will include repair of existing facilities.

Once these improvements are in place, Holmes Beach Police Chief Bill Tokajer has a plan to more closely monitor who’s using the park to help lessen liability to the city and keep users safer while on premises. His

department, charged with monitoring the skate park, purchased a camera system to be placed at both entrances to the park.

The new system will allow police department personnel to monitor users without having to station an officer at the park. All skate park users are required to complete a form releasing the city from liability if injured and file it with the police department.

When the park comes under the planning authority of the Parks and Beautification Committee, Commissioner Judy Titsworth said she’d like to see the group discuss the possibility of increasing the size of the park to appeal to older children and teenagers.

Currently, the skate park’s size and design are geared toward younger children and beginning skaters. Titsworth said she’d like to enhance the park to keep older children from leaving the Island to go skate at the larger park in downtown Bradenton.

“I’m hoping we can improve it for kids of all ages,” she said.

KRISTIN SWAIN | SUN

The Holmes Beach Skate Park is slated for improvements.

6

THE SUN

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

Like us on our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/AnnaMariaIslandSun

NOVEMBER 8, 2017

EDITORIAL Don't forget our veterans

I

n this week's paper, Cindy Lane features me as I was almost 50 years ago; a Marine in Vietnam.

There were no "John Wayne" moments for me in that war, no charging the enemy with rifles blazing. I was assigned to an artillery unit near DaNang. Next to us was a larger base where supplies and ammo were sent to the troops near the Ho Chi Minh Trail. Some of our warriors were sent there to get away from the action but mortar and rocket attacks that the enemy launched almost daily made that concept a joke.

I was one of more than 2.7 million men and women who served during the conflict; they came in Army, Air Force, Navy, Coast Guard and Marine uniforms and they fought a relentless enemy on their home turf.

Today we have a similar situation, fighting an enemy that swears to many different religions on their home turf. There are more females in our mix now, but we all believe in the one flag of the United States of America.

As we celebrate Veteran's Day this year, I hope we remember these people are sacrificing their time, effort and, unfortunately, their lives in the service of their country.

Let us remember those who didn't make it home to their families; and celebrate those who did.

- Tom Vaught

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 a couple of ways to do it. The easiest and most direct is to e-mail The Sun at news@ amisun.com. Remember to put Letter to the Editor in the subject field. Or you can snail-mail a letter to us at The Anna Maria Island Sun, Island Sun Plaza, P.O. Box 1189, Anna Maria, FL 34216. Or you can hand-deliver a letter to our office in Island Sun Plaza, 9801 Gulf Drive in Anna Maria.

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. The Sun reserves the right to edit letters for length or content.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Tax bill will hurt middle class

Yes, but is it illegal?

Congressman Vern Buchanan’s defense of the Republican tax bill, whose rationale is based largely on trickle-down economic theory, reminds me of Linus in the “Peanuts” cartoon waiting for the Great Pumpkin.

No matter that historic and empirical evidence shows otherwise, Buchanan and his congressional colleagues continue to argue that trickle-down economic theory is real and that it works, while Linus waits another year for the Great Pumpkin to appear, which we all know never will.

This would be laughable but for the fact that the middle class will be paying once again for a Republican giveaway to Wall Street, major corporations already flush with cash, and the most wealthy in our country.

As a businessman, Buchanan should know better, but as a political ideologue who, himself, will reap tremendous economic benefits from the tax bill, he chooses to ignore history and the facts to add some $1.5 trillion to the national debt, with almost nothing more to show for it other than a bunch of millionaires and billionaires reaping the benefits.

No wonder Congress is at its lowest popularity rating ever.

Harry Kamberis Holmes Beach

There have been some sensationalistic articles in the media regarding the despicable actions of some shark fishermen in their brutal treatment of some of their catch.

Should these fishermen have recorded their mistreatment of some of God’s lesser creatures? Obviously, no. But I have never been aware of any “rules of the road” regarding treatment of fish that have been caught.

Are there actually any laws regarding the humane treatment of fish? Routinely, live fish may be clubbed, cut up for bait and beat to a pulp for chumming use.

At this point, the idiots who recorded their actions for all to see should get some grief for being so stupid. But did they break a law?

It would appear that this may be much ado about nothing other than a display of male testosteronefueled bravado gone too far. Unless laws were broken, all media should bury this shark abuse story, no matter where it occurred.

Mike Horning Bradenton

Remember all our history Manatee County commissioners voted to let the statue to the lives lost in the Civil War be taken down in the middle of the night by inexperienced people, thus break-

ing it into three pieces. They bowed to the threat of a minority group of violent protesters so they wouldn’t have to deal with the possibility of problems.

OK, I get it, they took the easy path, which I don’t think is how our country was founded. The right thing to do was let it be on the next ballot and let the citizens decide.

And for not doing the right thing, I will be exercising my voting choice next election cycle for my leaders.

But here is my question: What is being done to fix the statue that they allowed to be broken? I just loved the news coverage the next day, where officials said “Well, it was weak and gonna fall on someone anyway...”

Too funny. It has only been standing there for 93 years through countless hurricanes.

No, the only weak things we have is our commissioners. It looks like they will just let the remains of the statue languish in some warehouse somewhere. But once they repair it, if ever, what’s the outcome? They want to move it to some unwatched out-of-the-way cemetery, where it will be destroyed beyond repair.

This country’s history, good or bad, must be respected and remembered.

Scott Scoville Bradenton

www.amisun.com

NOVEMBER 8, 2017

THE SUN

the sun survey

on the agenda

PREVIOUS QUESTION: What issue will most guide your decision on how you

Anna Maria

vote in the Nov. 7 elections on the Island?

45%

5%

Vacation rentals: more regulation or less.

Issues other than these.

10005 Gulf Drive.

11/9: City Commission meeting, 6 p.m.

11/10: Old Soldiers and Sailors Parade on Pine Ave., 1 p.m.

11/14: Planning and Zoning Board meeting, 4 p.m.

For information, call 7086130.

Bradenton Beach 107 Gulf Drive N.

18% Reducing traffic congestion.

11/9: Department Head meeting, 1 p.m.

11/15: Planning and Zoning Board meeting, 1 p.m.

11/16: City Commission meeting, noon.

For information, call 7781005.

14%

Repairing the city pier in a timely manner.

9%

All of these issues.

Do you agree that $150,000 should be spent to renovate the Holmes

• Yes. Both are way overdue for basic repairs.

• No. The money is better spent elsewhere.

• Neither. I'm a cat person. Where's our cat park?

Beach dog and skate parks?

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

LIKE us on our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/AnnaMariaIslandSun View The Sun’s online edition at www.issuu.com/AnnaMariaIslandSun The Anna Maria Island Sun staff Publishers Mike Field Maggie Field Editor/CEO Mike Field Layout Ricardo Fonseca Reporters Cindy Lane Tom Vaught Joe Hendricks

Kristin Swain Columnists Louise Bolger Outdoors editor Rusty Chinnis Ad director Chantelle Lewin Ad assistants Chris Boniberger Diane Martin

Classified ads Bob Alexander Graphics Elaine Stroili Ricardo Fonseca Digital director Cindy Lane Accounting John Reitz

5801 Marina Drive.

Distribution Bob Alexander Tony McNulty Connor Field Contributors Pat Copeland Steve Borggren Sean Murphy Monica Simpson

Government Committee meeting, 1 p.m.

11/14: Building Department Community Forum, 6 p.m.

For information, call 7085800.

Island-wide

11/16: West Manatee Fire Rescue Commission, 6417 Third Ave. W., Bradenton, 6 p.m.

Holiday notice Anna Maria, Bradenton Beach and Holmes Beach city halls will be closed Friday, November 10 in observance of Veterans Day. The Island Branch Library and Tingley Memorial Library also are closed. Trash, recycling and yard debris pick-up will continue on the regular schedule.

11/13: Ad-Hoc Form of

mark your calendar Note: Events are free unless indicated.

The sun survey is not a scientific poll and is used for entertainment purposes only.

THIS WEEK’S SURVEY

Holmes Beach

7

Wednesday November 8

Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce November Sunrise Breakfast, Gulf Drive Café and Tiki, 900 Gulf Drive N., Bradenton Beach, 7:45 a.m., $8 per member or $16 per prospective member.

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

Glass painting class, The Paradise Center, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, 2nd Floor, Longboat Key, 10:30 a.m., $15. Reserve to maryannbrady@theparadisecenter. org or 941-383-6493.

Einstein Circle, Lifelong Learning Academy at The Center of Anna Maria Island, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria, 11 a.m.

Off Stage Ladies meeting, IMG Academy Golf Club, 4350 El Conquistador Pkwy, Bradenton, 11:30 a.m., $16.

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

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

Watercolor Wednesday with Cory Wright, The Studio at Gulf and Pine, 10101 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria, 3:30 to 5:30 p.m., $175 for four

sessions, including supplies.

Reserve to 941-778-1906.

Chess Club, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 4 p.m.

Beginner pottery parts 1 & 2, The Folk School at Florida Maritime Museum, 4415 119th St., Cortez, 6 p.m., $75.

Reserve to 941-708-6120 or www.floridafolkschool.org.

Thursday November 9

Veterans service information, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 9 to 11 a.m.

Intermediate sea salt class, The Folk School at Florida Maritime Museum, 4415 119th St., Cortez, 10 a.m., $35. Reserve to 941-7086120 or www.floridafolkschool.org.

Zumba and mat pilates for seniors, The Paradise Center, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, second floor, 10 a.m., $10 per class.

Reserve to maryannbrady@ theparadisecenter.org or 941-383-6493.

ACBL open pairs duplicate bridge, The Paradise Center, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, second floor, 1 p.m., $11 per game with coffee and snacks provided.

Reserve to 941-216-9600 or sjbrill@aol.com.

10byTEN exhibition opening, The Studio at Gulf and SEE CALENDAR, PAGE 8

8

www.amisun.com

THE SUN

mark your calendar Pine, 10101 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria, 6 p.m.

artsHOP reception for Nick Donatelli, SteamDesigns, 5343 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, 5:30 p.m.

Friday

Saturday

Intermediate bridge session, The Paradise Center, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, 2nd Floor, Longboat Key, 10:30 to 11:30 a.m., $10, includes coffee and cookies. Reserve to maryannbrady@theparadisecenter.org or 941-383-6493.

Old Soldiers and Sailors Veterans Day Parade and Community Gathering, Pine Avenue to Bayfront Park, Anna Maria, 1 to 3 p.m.

Ice cream social, Anna Maria Island Historical Society, 402 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, 2 to 4 p.m.

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

Holmes Beach Gallery Walk, downtown Holmes Beach near Marina and Gulf drives, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. artsHOP artist reception, Artist’s Guild of Anna Maria Island Gallery, 5414 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 5:30 p.m. artsHOP reception for Marti Salerni, Island Gallery West, 5386 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, 5:30 p.m.

“Faces and Emotions” art exhibit opening, Anna Maria Island Art League, 5312 Holmes Blvd., Holmes Beach, 5:30 p.m.

Master Gardener Tour, Riverview Pointe Preserve, 8250 DeSoto Memorial Hwy, Bradenton, 9 a.m. Reserve to 941-722-4524.

Sixth Annual Cortez Stone Crab Festival, 4628 119th St. W., Cortez, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

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

ACBL open pairs duplicate bridge, The Paradise Center, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, second floor, 1 p.m., $11 per game with coffee and snacks provided. Reserve to 941-216-9600 or sjbrill@aol.com.

Symphony on the Sand, Coquina Beach, 2650 Gulf Drive S., Bradenton Beach, 4:30 to 7:30 p.m., $20-125 per person. Call 941-7781541 or visit www.annamariaislandchamber. org/symphony-on-the-sand to purchase tickets.

From Page 7

November 10

November 11

Sunday

November 12

Beach Market, Coquina Beach, 2650 Gulf Drive S., Bradenton Beach, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Anna Maria Island Privateers Shiprek Poker Run, Drift-In, 120 Bridge St., Bradenton Beach, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Sixth Annual Cortez Stone Crab Festival, 4628 119th St. W., Cortez, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Tuesday November 14

Yoga with Cheryl Kaiser, The Paradise Center, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, 2nd Floor, Longboat Key, 10 a.m., $10. Reserve to maryannbrady@theparadisecenter.org or 941-383-6493.

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

Beginner soap making, The Folk School at Florida Maritime Museum, 4415 119th St., Cortez, 10 a.m. to noon, $35. Reserve to 941708-6120 or www.floridafolkschool.org.

Mahjong for beginners, The Paradise Center, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, 2nd Floor, Longboat Key, 12:30 to 2:30 p.m., $10, snacks are provided. Reserve to maryannbrady@ theparadisecenter.org or 941-383-6493.

ACBL open pairs duplicate bridge, The Paradise Center, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, second floor, 1 p.m., $11 per game with coffee and snacks provided. Reserve to 941-216-9600 or sjbrill@aol.com.

Computer Class: Searching and Security, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2 p.m.

Vitamin N: Sunset Tai Chi, Robinson Preserve, 1704 99th St. NW, Bradenton, 5 p.m.

Reserve to 941-742-5757, ext. 6.

Sunset Shutter Stroll, Leffis Key, 2351 Gulf Drive S., Bradenton Beach, 5 p.m. Reserve to

NOVEMBER 8, 2017

941-742-5757, ext. 9.

Classical Moments in Art History, Anna Maria Island Art League, 5312 Holmes Blvd., Holmes Beach, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., $20. Reserve to 941-778-2099 or artleagueami@gmail.com.

Intro to fermentation, The Folk School at Florida Maritime Museum, 4415 119th St., Cortez, 6:30 p.m., $20. Reserve to 941-7086120 or www.floridafolkschool.org.

Wednesday November 15

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

Einstein Circle, Lifelong Learning Academy at The Center of Anna Maria Island, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria, 11 a.m.

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

SHINE: Serving Health Insurance Needs of Elders, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2 p.m.

Lecture: The Lionfish Invasion, Florida Maritime Museum, 4415 119th St., Cortez, 3 p.m.

Thursday November 16

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

NOVEMBER 8, 2017

www.amisun.com

THE SUN

9

Mayor in constant contact with Sunshine defendants Records for the mayor’s city cell phone indicate numerous phone conversations with lawsuit defendants.

Sometimes I have trouble remembering what I had for breakfast yesterday, and you’re asking me what a phone call was about two months ago.”

BY JOE HENDRICKS

SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun

BRADENTON BEACH – Mayor Bill Shearon had several private phone calls in recent months with defendants named in a Sunshine Law lawsuit initiated by the city and resident Jack Clarke in August.

Filed Aug. 11, the lawsuit alleges six city-appointed board and committee members committed Sunshine Law violations when they discussed potential board and committee business during a Concerned Neighbors of Bradenton Beach (CNOBB) meeting on July 25.

Billing records for Shearon’s city-issued cell phone indicate the mayor had several conversations with defendants John Metz, Reed Mapes, Bill Vincent and Patty Shay since the Sunshine concerns surfaced.

On Aug. 7, the City Commission, minus Marilyn Maro, who was absent, voted 3-1 to join with city resident and former Mayor Jack Clarke in hiring

Bill Shearon, Bradenton Beach Mayor

joe hendricks | SUN

Mayor Bill Shearon said his cell phone conversations did not pertain to the Sunshine Law lawsuit.

Sarasota attorney Robert Watrous and paralegal Michael Barfield to file a non-criminal lawsuit seeking a judge’s ruling on whether Sunshine violations occurred. Shearon opposed the lawsuit, but he supported a non-criminal investigation when it was discussed the previous week.

When asked if Shearon’s frequent phone conversations with some of the defendants concerned him, Watrous

said, “Yes, but I think it would be prudent for me to allow the mayor an opportunity to explain.”

On Sept. 6, the mayor and city commissioners participated in an attorneyclient shade meeting that allowed them to privately discuss legal strategies regarding the lawsuit. Before the shade meeting started, Watrous and City Attorney Ricinda Perry suggested Shearon recuse himself because his life partner, Tjet Martin, is one of the six defendants. At the time, Martin had direct access to lawsuit-related e-mails sent to Shearon’s city account because she assists the legally blind mayor with his e-mail.

Shearon said he was bound to the same confidentiality stipulations as the other commissioners and he refused to

recuse himself. It was later agreed that future lawsuit-related communications to Shearon would be made by phone in order to remove Martin from the communications loop.

Constant contact

Between the shade meeting and the billing cycle’s end on Sept. 23, Shearon made or received 28 calls from lawsuit defendants: five involving Metz, 10 involving Mapes, 10 involving Vincent and three involving Shay, according to the billing records that are public record.

Two days after the shade meeting, Shearon called Metz, Mapes and Vincent within a 10-minute period. On see mayor, page 31

10

www.amisun.com

THE SUN

NOVEMBER 8, 2017

CNOBB filings contain potential deficiencies Complaints filed with the Florida Elections Commission question whether CNOBB filed its organizational and financial reports in compliance with state election laws.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

BRADENTON BEACH – The statement of organization and campaign treasurer’s report filed by the Concerned Neighbors of Bradenton Beach (CNOBB) both contain potential deficiencies, according to the city clerk and city attorney.

On Oct. 24, CNOBB filed with the city clerk’s office a statement of organization designating it as a political committee. Bill Vincent is listed as the committee’s registered agent and chairperson. John Metz is listed as the treasurer. The clerk’s office received CNOBB’s first campaign treasurer’s report on Oct. 30. Both filings prompted City Clerk Terri Sanclemente to send letters to CNOBB. Sanclemente’s letter regarding the statement of organization notes it was

joe hendricks | SUN

From left, Bill Vincent is the registered chairperson of the political committee he originally envisioned as an educational and advocacy group. As CNOBB’s designated treasurer, John Metz is responsible for recording and reporting the political committee’s financial transactions. filed more than 10 days after the group was organized. This could violate state law.

“I sent them a certified letter sharing what I found to be potential deficiencies they may want to address. If a complaint is filed, it’s up to another governmental body to determine if the filing is compliant with state election law,” Sanclemente said.

“Each political committee that receives contributions or makes expen-

ditures during a calendar year in an aggregate amount exceeding $500, or that seeks the signatures of registered electors in support of an initiative, shall file a statement of organization within 10 days after its organization,” states Chapter 106.03 of the Florida Statutes.

CNOBB adopted its bylaws on June 27. In early August, CNOBB initiated a petition drive to get three charter amendment questions placed on this year’s city ballot. In mid-October,

CNOBB mailed out postcards seeking support for its charter amendments.

City Attorney Ricinda Perry said CNOBB’s statement of organization fell short of state requirements by failing to provide the names, addresses and positions of any other principal officers, failing to declare if the group intends to continue as a political committee after the city elections and failing to provide a statement as to when CNOBB was formed as an electioneering communications organization that distributes campaign-related materials.

Former Mayor Jack Clarke filed Florida Elections Commission complaints against CNOBB and some of its members before CNOBB filed its statement of organization and campaign treasurer’s report.

Treasurer’s report

CNOBB’s initial campaign treasurer’s report covers a self-created reporting period from Aug. 15 to Oct. 27. City Commission candidates filed six datecertain campaign treasurer’s reports during that same period.

Chapter 106.07 of the Florida Statsee CNOBB, page 31

www.amisun.com

NOVEMBER 8, 2017

THE SUN

11

Aqua by the Bay approval challenged The legal action cites a lack of public comment on the revised general development plan.

The hearing should have been

BY JOE HENDRICKS

SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

BRADENTON – The battle over the Aqua by the Bay development is not over.

On Thursday, Nov. 2, attorney Ralf Brookes filed a legal challenge to the project approval County Commissioners granted in October.

“Petitioners file this Petition for Writ of Certiorari pursuant to Florida Rule of Appellate Procedure to quash a decision of the Manatee County Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) made on Oct. 3 approving a rezoning and general development plan for a large development project known as Aqua, in the geographic area commonly known as Longbar Point in western Manatee County,” the petition for writ begins.

The petition names Manatee County as the respondent, in regard to Aqua by the Bay. This means Aqua by the Bay attorneys could request to intervene in the legal action and join the county attorney’s office in defense of the claims made and actions sought.

Brookes filed the writ on behalf of Suncoast Waterkeeper and its director, Joe McClash; Cortez charter captain Kathe Fannon and her daughter, Katie Scarlett Tupin; Longboat Key resident Larry Grossman and Legends Bay residents Beverly Hill, Arlene Dukaukas and Lenka Sukova.

The commission’s Oct. 3 meeting was a continuation of the Aug. 16 and Aug. 23 meetings that resulted in developer Carlos Beruff and his attorney, Ed Vogler,

continued, re-noticed and advertised to allow public comment.”

Petition for Writ of Certiorari

joe hendricks | SUN

Shown here holding a model of the Aqua by the Bay development, Joe McClash and Kathe Fannon are among the petitioners in a new legal challenge opposing the Aqua by the Bay development. offering to remove the 145-foot tall buildings from their plans. Still facing an anticipated vote of denial on Aug. 23, the developers requested more time to address commission concerns about a man-made estuary enhancement area and retaining wall and the natural buffer between the development and the mangrove shoreline. The developers also were asked to provide more details on the locations of the proposed 95-foot tall buildings.

Public comment was concluded and closed on Aug. 23, and it was stated and advertised there would be no public comment when the meeting continued on Oct. 3.

When the Oct. 3 meeting began, it was announced that public comment would be allowed if significant changes were made to the general development plan.

The developers then offered to remove

the man-made estuary. They also offered to come back to the commission for additional approval for each 750 residential units built after the initial 750 units.

“The Oct. 3 meeting was noticed and advertised for no public comment. The original general development plan submitted was changed during a three hour break in the meeting and a new general development plan was created. Petitioners were not given a reasonable opportunity to personally review, and have their experts review, the amended, revised general development plan before the BOCC reconvened and voted to the approve the new general development plan on the same day. The hearing should have been continued, re-noticed and advertised to allow public comment,” the petition says.

“Because no public comment was expressly stated in the public notice, many

either did not attend or have experts attend, the Oct. 3 hearing. Those interested, affected persons, including petitioners, who did attend were denied a meaningful opportunity to even see, much less review, the amended, revised site plan and stipulations created during a three hour recess,” the petition states.

The petition claims the approval of building heights over 35 feet did not meet the essential requirements of law, and there was no substantial evidence supporting the height limits granted. It also claims the approved general development plan lacked required details.

“Wherefore, petitioners request an order from this court quashing or remanding the decision below on the grounds that the board 1) failed to provide procedural due process; 2) failed to apply the correct law and comply with the essential requirements of law contained in the Manatee County Land Development Code; 3) the approval is not supported by competent substantial evidence of compliance with all LDC requirements,” the petition concludes.

12

www.amisun.com

THE SUN

How Lucky AMI returns to the Island

Kristin Swain | Sun

Clockwise from above, Shoppers gather to get a first look at the How Lucky AMI space and new merchandise. Owners Jan Labriola, Jane Sperlazzi and Carol Clifford, the ladies behind Tom, Dick and Harry Productions, celebrate the relaunch of the How Lucky AMI brand at Restless Natives, 5314 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Pottery artist Karen Runia shows off her skill to a shopper during the grand opening of the How Lucky AMI shop. Jewelry artist Jen Westbrook works on a piece outside of Restless Natives as a part of the grand opening festivities.

‘Tis the Season for Santa and Savings!

Gift cards for waterfront, toes in the sand dining make the perfect gift for everyone on your holiday list!

Special Holiday Sale!

For every $100 in gift cards purchased you’ll receive a Bonus Gift Card worth $25.

Purchase online, call or visit. E-Gift Cards also available. e.

IslandDining.com

Special Holiday Sale 11/1/17 - 1/7/18.

1/7/18 Bonus Card may not be used on day of purchase.

Gift cards do not expire.

NOVEMBER 8, 2017

www.amisun.com

NOVEMBER 8, 2017

THE SUN

13

Community members talk city vision Community members are lending their voices to draft a new vision for the future of Holmes Beach.

• • • • • • • • • • • •

TIP-OFFS TO POTENTIAL RIP-OFFS

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

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

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

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

Don’t be afraid to ask for references.

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

Get an es mate/proposal in wri ng.

Make sure it specifies work to be performed.

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

HOLMES BEACH – With a comprehensive plan review on the way, city leaders are turning their focus to the vision statement.

Welcoming participants to a public workshop on the vision statement held at Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, Mayor Bob Johnson said establishing a new vision statement for the community is the first step toward the full comprehensive plan review.

“We need guidance for how the community should be,” he said.

“Tonight is the real start point along this road.”

A city’s vision statement offers a broad outline of how the community should be in the future. It gives city leaders goals to achieve through the comprehensive plan to make the community better.

The last time Holmes Beach’s vision statement was updated was 2002, and the statement was never formally adopted by the city commission. This time, Johnson hopes things will be done differently.

Once drafted, the vision statement will be presented to both city commissioners and the public for review and comments before adoption.

Taking charge on the draft of a new vision statement to present to city commissioners is the Planning Commission. Ten community members joined planning commissioners during the workshop to lend their voices to help draft a vision statement. Ideas were gathered in

Kristin Swain | Sun

Planning Commissioner Tom Carlson gets input on Holmes Beach’s vision statement from residents Nancy Deal and Renae Ferguson. five categories – natural resources, infrastructure, mobility/transportation, public safety and disaster management and community character.

Natural Resources

Ideas submitted for consideration under natural resources include preserving the beach and surrounding waters, protecting wildlife and decreasing vehicle pollution.

Infrastructure

Under infrastructure, some of the ideas discussed are creating wellmaintained roads, sidewalks, bike paths and bridges and providing adequate on-island parking for residents, visitors and workers. Another idea is to rework existing roads to make them safer for all users and better assist the flow of traffic.

Mobility/Transportation

Contributors to the mobility and transportation study agreed they’d like a future where Holmes Beach’s traffic flows more smoothly. Suggestions include regulating public and private transportation methods, creating a mass transit service for visitors and creating safer walkways and crossings for pedestrians.

Public Safety/Disaster Management

Suggestions for public safety and disaster management primarily centered around natural disaster response. Participants suggested creating an early, personal storm warning system, requiring landscaping to be trimmed in preparation for storms and initiating coordination between the three Island cities for storm recovery.

Community Character

Contributors to the community character discussion suggested city leaders provide more public open space. Their vision for the future also included a community where residents and visitors can live together harmoniously, working together to preserve the city’s natural spaces and neighborhoods.

“It’s not just about us,” Planning Commissioner Chuck Stealey said, “it’s about who’s going to be here 10, 15 years from now. For the good of the community, we have to have a vision and a plan.”

Community members who weren’t able to make it out to the workshop but would still like to offer input are invited to submit comments to Stealey

14

www.amisun.com

THE SUN

Cortez celebrates stone crabs The Stone Crab Festival raises money for the Manatee Chapter of Fishing For Freedom, a group that supports commercial fishing.

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

CORTEZ – The beginning of stone crab season is a highly anticipated event to those who crave the colorful claws after they come out of the pot, and for the past five years, Swordfish Grill and Tiki Bar at 4628 119th St. W. has held a festival celebrate it.

For its Sixth Annual Stone Crab Festival on Saturday and Sunday, Nov. 11 and 12, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Swordfish spreads the love to Florida blue crabs as well. Swordfish Manager Bob Slicker said the music would extend after 6 p.m. at the Swordfish’s two stages and the Cortez Kitchen next door.

In addition to crabs, there will be

cold refreshments and local music at three venues, arts and crafts for sale and a kid’s zone to keep the youngsters entertained.

The lineup of music includes TC & Randy, TH & C, Jason Haram Group, The Kat Crosby Band, The Dr. Dave Band, Billy Rice, Doug Deming & The Jewel Tones, Alowicious, Berry Oakley's Indigenous Suspects and Twinkle & Rock Soul Radio. There will be a large tent to keep sun and rain off attendees.

The Cortez Stone Crab Festival began as a block party for the locals, the fisherman and crabbers. John Banyas, fourth generation fisherman and the owner of Cortez Bait & Seafood, Inc., wanted to give the fisherman a party to kick off stone crab season, which is immediately followed by mullet season.

There will be ample parking with the addition of parking at the Florida Maritime Museum parking lot, and the claws will be fresh. As Swordfish advertises, its stone crab “never travels by land.”

NOVEMBER 8, 2017

www.amisun.com

NOVEMBER 8, 2017

THE SUN

15

Planning board reconstructed Three of the four new members have previous experience in the construction business.

JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

BRADENTON BEACH – The Planning and Zoning Board is back in action with four new members.

On Oct. 18, newly-appointed members Ken McDonough, Fred Bartizal, Bill Morrow and Andrew Mincieli joined returning member Jim Lynch and returning chairman John Burns for the first of two introductory meetings.

The meetings provided City Planner Alan Garrett the opportunity to bring the newcomers up to speed on what’s expected of them and how the board functions, working primarily with the city’s land development code and comprehensive plan.

The new members give the volunteer advisory board a voting quorum again. Board operations were suspended in August after Reed Mapes, John Metz, Patty Shay and Bill Vincent resigned due to Sunshine Law violation allegations.

joe hendricks | SUN

The Bradenton Beach Planning and Zoning Board now consists of Ken McDonough, Fred Bartizal, Jim Lynch, chairman John Burns, Bill Morrow and Andrew Mincieli, shown from left to right.

Garrett stressed the importance of Sunshine Law compliance and not discussing board business outside of planning board meetings. He also stressed adherence to laws that apply to the evidence-based quasi-judicial hearings the board sometimes conducts.

During the Oct. 25 meeting, Garrett referenced the three p’s of planning: “Planning starts with the letter p because politics starts with the letter p, and one thing that also starts with the letter p is never take it personally. You may recommend approval; the commission may go denial. You may

recommend denial and the commission goes with approval. It’s their prerogative. It’s their responsibility as elected officials,” he said.

“We never make a decision here at the P&Z; we always make a recommendation,” Lynch added.

During the Oct. 18 meeting, the new members shared some information about themselves.

McDonough and his wife moved from Pittsburgh to Bradenton Beach in 2011 and became city residents in 2012. In Pittsburgh, McDonough spent 11 years working for a developer, serving as a superintendent and

project manager.

“So, I do have some building experience,” he said.

Bartizal, a Holmes Beach resident, started visiting the Island in 1953 and he opened the Bridge Tender Inn in Bradenton Beach in 1989, serving at first as an absentee owner.

“In another life, I was a gynecologist. Since I retired, I’ve become a more active participant in Bridge Street,” he said.

Morrow was raised and schooled in Idaho.

“I had a 25-year military career, then I became a Beltway Bandit in the Washington D.C. area as a contractor,” he said.

He and his wife, Connie, moved to Bradenton Beach in 2015 and took up permanent residence in the Runaway Bay condo they’d been renting to vacationers since 2003. Connie serves as president of the condo association and was recently appointed to the city’s Scenic W.A.V.E.S. Committee.

Mincieli hails from Albany N.Y., and originally from the Bronx. He bought a house in Bradenton Beach in 2000 and relocated permanently in 2010. He owned a plumbing supply house and was a licensed plumber in four states.

“I know the construction end of the business very well, and I’m really pleased to be on this board,” he said.

16

THE SUN

www.amisun.com

NOVEMBER 8, 2017

www.amisun.com

NOVEMBER 8, 2017

THE SUN

17

Hurricane relief supplies headed to St. John Bridge Tender Inn & Dockside Bar owner Fred Bartizal is taking a work crew to St. John in January.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

BRADENTON BEACH – Hurricane relief supplies donated by patrons of the Bridge Tender Inn & Dockside Bar and the Drift In are expected to arrive in St. John this week.

Last week, the donated supplies were packed into a metal shipping container and taken by truck to Miami to be placed on a ship headed for the U.S. Virgin Islands.

Upon arrival, the shipping container will be trucked to Bridge Tender Inn owner Fred Bartizal’s vacation home in St. John. From there the supplies will distributed to locals.

Bartizal is paying the estimated $4,000 in shipping costs himself, and Bridge Tender Inn manager Shannon Dunnan and Drift In

joe hendricks | SUN

Bridge Tender Inn owner Fred Bartizal, now a member of the Bradenton Beach Planning and Zoning Board, is picking up the estimated $4,000 tab for shipping the supplies to St. John. Right, Mannie the mannequin stood watch over hurricane supplies dropped off at the Drift In. bartender Chase Purtill spearheaded the relief efforts. Purtill and her boyfriend, Shawn Wall, were vacationing in St. John when Hurricane Irma pummeled the island with Category 5 force winds. The two establishments accepted donations for the past month or so, and some of supplies donated at the Drift In were stored next to Mannie the mannequin. Yolo Adventures also

contributed to the relief efforts.

“We had so many donations.

It was wonderful. We donated the plywood and people donated generators, small appliances, tools, food and water, cleaning supplies, household supplies, personal hygiene products and more,” Dunnan said.

“The people of St John will definitely appreciate the stuff people donated, and it will be put

to good use. It’s a great cause,” Bartizal said.

Bartizal and his wife Susan have owned their St. John home since 1998.

“I take the employees there once a year, and Susan and I go once a year,” he said.

When asked how their house held up, Bartizal said, “My house is cement, and it has a cement roof, so it’s structurally intact.

We have people living in it who needed a place to stay because their houses are gone. Our guest house also has people in it. There aren’t a lot of houses that are functional right now in St. John.”

Bartizal’s generator was damaged in the storm and will only run for a half-hour at a time.

“I have solar collectors up, but they don’t work without the power grid. I bought some Tesla batteries for storage, and when we get them hooked up to the solar collectors we’ll have power without the generator,” he said.

Bartizal is taking a 12 to 14-person work group to St. John in January.

“It’s not like Key West or Puerto Rico. You don’t hear about St. John and St. Thomas. We had wind gusts up to 235 miles per hour and a week later we had 145 miles per hour,” Bartizal said of the post-hurricane media coverage of hurricanes Irma and Maria.

He also noted that St. John is part of the U.S. Territories and many of its residents are U.S. citizens.

18

www.amisun.com

THE SUN

NOVEMBER 8, 2017

Island restaurant owner’s son performs Mark LaBriola, Jr, almost made it to “American Idol” a few years back and now he’s told he’s too old to tryout.

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

ANNA MARIA – Owner Mark LaBriola is wild about Harry’s, and Harry’s was wild about his son recently.

Mark LaBriola II, from Denver, Colo., performed at his father’s restaurant, Harry’s, at 9903 Gulf Drive, on Sunday, Oct. 22, before returning to the Mile High City. His story is interesting because he was so close to making it big.

“Several years ago, I was in a band, and my dad sent me a text saying I ought to try out for American Idol, which was holding tryouts at Sports Authority Mile High Stadium, where the

Broncos play football,” he said.

“One hundred and twenty thousand people tried out nationally and when I was dropped, fewer than a thousand people were left.”

He went through a series of tryouts before they let him go, but he got to Hollywood before that happened. Was he nervous?

“Not really,” he said. “I had been playing in a Christian rock band for years.”

He explored the notion of trying out for other shows such as “America’s Got Talent” or “The Voice,” and he learned he was too old.

Instead of singing, he owns a marketing company called Brand Viva LaBriola, who has a wife and three children, plans to come back every year to see his father and maybe sing with him at Harry’s, but Hollywood isn’t on his itinerary.

“I’ve had my 15 minutes of fame, and that’s it.”

TOM VAUGHT | SUN

Mark LaBriola II sings with his father at Harry's while visiting from Colorado.

CELEBRATING COASTAL & CLASSIC

SEAFOOD DINING

Stay Social!

NOVEMBER 8, 2017

www.amisun.com

THE SUN

19

joe hendricks | SUN

The Anna Maria City Pier features hundreds of engraved planks that will eventually be removed and replaced.

Pier plank plan pending The mayor’s preference is to use the repurposed planks inside the new bait shop and restaurant that will be built.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA – Mayor Dan Murphy is working on a plan to reuse the engraved wooden planks that will be removed when a new pier is built to replace the aging and storm-damaged Anna Maria City Pier.

Last week, Murphy said the city has received more than 300 suggestions on what to do with the engraved planks.

He plans to present three options, with projected costs, to city commissioners in December.

“There’s a common thread with the suggestions: make a boardwalk and build it either at Bayfront Park or City Pier Park or make a wall somewhere with all the planks on it. The most appealing suggestion to me is to use the planks on the inside of the pier and as paneling for the walls inside the new bait shop and restaurant. People love repurposed wood and with all these names carved in it that would be pretty cool,” Murphy said.

It has also been suggested the planks be used to cover the outside of the new pier buildings or be used to cover the ceilings inside. Murphy has also received many requests for railings to be installed along the length of the pier.

“I’ve got all these recommendations.

I’m going to take it down to a short list and present that to the commission.

The other option is to store the boards somewhere and give people a certain amount of time to claim them. All options are on the table,” Murphy said.

Walk the plank walk

Approximately 1,100 engraved planks were purchased to be engraved and installed on the pier since the Historic Anna Maria Pier Plank Walk project was initiated in the early 2000s

by The Islander newspaper. A search of the newspaper’s online archives revealed an in-house advertisement for plank sales dated Dec. 17, 2003. Individual planks were sold for $100 and could be ordered through the website.

Dated June 30, 2010, a Pier Centennial Celebration promotion posted at the newspaper’s website offered plankinclusive VIP sponsorship packages for $1,000 and $500, in addition to individual planks for $100.

An article from Aug. 28, 2012, said orders were being taken for the final 50 planks, according to plank organizer Janice Dingman. The story stated planks could only be ordered through The Islander website.

According to the paper’s City Pier Plank List, plank #1 said, “In loving memory of Bob Condie 1918-2005,” and plank #1100 said, “Edgar & Megan Pantoja – Spending Forever Together.”

Murphy was elected in 2014, so he has no first-hand knowledge of the pier plank project to rely on. Last week, he and City Clerk LeAnne Addy were still trying to determine who purchased the planks and who received the money for the planks.

“As far as I know there is no accounting for anything, and there’s no records. I’ve asked for an inventory of who the planks were sold to and where the plank is located. I’m getting requests from people saying they want their board back, and I have no idea whether they actually bought the board,” Murphy said. see peir, page 41

20

www.amisun.com

THE SUN

NOVEMBER 8, 2017

Trail of Treats leads to eats The Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce sponsors this event where businesses provide the treats

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

HOLMES BEACH – Dozens of blood thirsty monsters, ghosts and ogres took to the streets of the business district along Gulf Drive and Marina Drive on Tuesday, Oct. 31, for the annual Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce Trail of Treats. Costumed participants, mostly from Anna Maria Elementary School, were judged by age group and gender, and with so many intriguing and colorful costumes, judging was a hard task.

After the winners were announced, the kids and their parents grabbed maps supplied by the Chamber showing participating stores where treats were available. The Anna Maria Island Privateers and the Holmes Beach Police Department worked together to make sure traffic allowed the trick or treaters to cross streets safely.

Chamber President Deb Wing was amazed at the diversity and work that went into the costumes.

“A lot of them were homemade,” she said. “It’s nice when parents get involved, if they have the time.”

Wing said attendance was down. This year, the event was held on a Tuesday instead of a Monday.

One of the first stops the kids made was at Anna Maria Dental, where two women were passing out candy.

“We used to pass out toothbrushes,” one of them said, “but kids prefer candy.”

The weather was a little warm for some of the costumed goblins, but they all ran enthusiastically from door to door.

Onw family was here from Iceland, where they said the ice is melting now. When asked if they celebrate Halloween there, Helen Snorradottin said, “We do, but it’s tied to Ash Wednesday there.”

TOM VAUGHT | SUN

Clockwise from above: this display scared some of the kids. Maverick Champ won best boy for his age group with “Beach Patrol.” Jennifer Moore and her son, Jacob, were scarecrows. Ava Harlan was cotton can dy. Xyza Jahnke was Dracula with bloody lips.

WHEN YOU THINK FANS, THINK DAN'S!

DAN'S FAN CITY LARGEST SELECTION OF INDOOR & OUTDOOR FANS ANYWHERE! TORNADO

DESIGN

MARINE GRADE S316 STAINLESS STEEL

YOUR FAN

ASK US HOW

OR SEE OUR

RAINDANCE

Direct Water Contact 30 Year Warranty 45 Stores Nationwide Parts, Services & Open 7 Days A Week Installation Available Locally Owned and Operated · Fan Experts For Over 35 Years

Bradenton

1808 Cortez Road

755-3262

NOVEMBER 8, 2017

FOOD & WINE

THE SUN

21

Thanksgiving pie Cindy Tutterow HOMETOWN DESSERTS

T

he day before Thanksgiving is the busiest day of the year in my dessert world. Our best seller that day is pie! Most Thanksgiving tables display at least one type of pie. Whether you prefer pumpkin, apple, pecan or a berry pie, we can all agree that pie is delicious. Have you ever wondered about the origin of pie?

Here are a few interesting facts from the American Pie Council: Historians believe the Greeks developed the pastry crust to serve as a baking dish. Crusts were made from a mixture of water and flour. They were several inches thick to hold a filling and withstand hours of baking over hot coals. They were not meant to be eaten.

The early pies were predominately meat pies. There was actually more crust than filling. Often these pies

were made using fowl. Sometimes the legs were left to hang over the side of the dish and used as handles.

It is believed that fruit pies appeared in the 1500s. English tradition credits the making of the first cherry pie to Queen Elizabeth I. Pie came to America with the first English settlers. The early colonists cooked their pies in long narrow pans, calling them coffyns, like the crusts in England. It was during the American Revolution that the term crust was used instead of coffyn.

Over the years, pie has evolved to become what is today the most traditional American dessert. Pie has become so much a part of American culture that we now commonly use the term as American as apple pie.

I have included our traditional pecan pie recipe. You can put your own spin on it by adding dried cranberries, chocolate chips or even a splash of bourbon.

This Thanksgiving you may try my pecan pie recipe or simply order one from Hometown Desserts. We promise to remove the legs from the filling!

Pecan Pie Pie filling ingredients 3 eggs 1 c. sugar ¾ c. light corn syrup ½ c. dark corn syrup 3 Tbs. melted butter 1½ tsp. vanilla extract

Directions

• Pre-bake your favorite pastry crust for 7 minutes in a 350 degree oven.

• Pour 1½ cups chopped pecans into the crust.

• Pour the filling into the crust on top of the pecans.

• Bake on a parchment lined baking sheet for 60-90 minutes in a 350 degree oven until the center is set.

submitted

Pecan pie is a traditional holiday treat.

22

www.amisun.com

THE SUN

NOVEMBER 8, 2017

It was Sandtastic Nine teams competed in the 2017 Sandblast at Manatee County Beach last Saturday, sponsored by Keep Manatee Beautiful. The event is tied to America Recycles Day on Nov. 15, and this year, it also honored veterans.

It was the first event for Keep Manatee Beautiful’s new executive director, Jennifer Hoffman. Ingrid McClellan, who is retiring after 22 years at the helm, said she would likely be at future events since she was named executive director emeritus and would be available to help Hoffman.

The results of the competition were:

Elementary and Middle School Division Winner, Oneco N.U.B.S. – "Earth is one in a Minion" Runner up, Lincoln Memorial Middle School – "Gnarly Abe the Living Tree" Second runner up, Oasis Middle School – "Lego School" High School/Adult Division Wildlife Winner, Bradenton Christian High School Art Honor Society – "3 Little Pigs" Runner up, Southeast High School VPA Academy – "Gecko Love" Second runner up, PBGC:L.I.F.E. – "Michelangelo" Free form Winner, PHS Tigers Create – "Dragons Lair" Runner up, MHS Art Club – "Hurricane Damage" Second runner up, Bayshore High School Art Department – "Siren Song"

TOM VAUGHT | SUN

TOM VAUGHT | SUN

Above, the Keep Manatee Beautiful logo is in the sand sculpture.

Left, this year's theme honored veterans.

TOM VAUGHT | SUN

Above, this display by the Bradenton Christian High School Art Honor Society was titled "The Three Little Pigs.

Below, "Earth is One in a Minion" took a global look at the environment.

TOM VAUGHT | SUN

Left, this turtle sculpture was entered by the Boy's and Girl's Club of Manatee County.

TOM VAUGHT | SUN

www.amisun.com

APRIL 26, 2017

THE SUN

23

‘Aquatic FantaSea’ at The Studio

submitted

Guild artist honored A watercolor painting by Artists' Guild of Anna Maria Island member and local Cortez artist Anne Abgott titled "Round and around the Apple" recently won the Mijello Award at the Watercolor West Show in La Brea, Calif. This painting was done from a photo taken in New York of the Apple Store. The store no longer exists except in the artist’s memories and photos.

Abgott also won the Combined Donors Award at the National Watercolor Society Show in San Pedro, Calif. The title of the painting is "Off 5th" painted from a photo that Anne took at A local store in a mall in Sarasota.

The Artists' Guild of Anna Maria Island is located at 5414 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. The Guild will be participating in the upcoming 11th Annual artsHOP Gallery Walk on Friday, Nov. 10, from 5 to 7:30 p.m. with local artists, live music, light refreshments and artwork.

Open 7 days a week, 8 a.m. – 8 p.m.

Most insurance plans accepted Digital X-rays & EKGs Minor emergencies, illnesses & injuries

Bradenton

4647 Manatee Ave W. 941.745.5999

www.bradentonurgentcare.com Member of Manatee Physician Alliance

170306

The Studio at Gulf and Pine features the vibrant underwater world of Fernando Soler in his exhibition of acrylic paintings entitled “Aquatic FantaSea” from Nov. 1 through Jan. 6, 2018. These musical mermaids give a glimpse into Soler’s creative mind.

Soler was born in Havana Cuba in 1947 and came to the United States in 1956 with his family where they settled on the island of Key West.

He attended public school there graduating from Key West High School in 1966. Uncle Sam called in 1967, and he was inducted into the US Coast Guard for the next four years. In 1971, he came to Sarasota and attended Ringling School of Art. Throughout his career in commercial art he has maintained a steady flow of paintings and has exhibited his work in many art centers, group and solo exhibitions in cities like Staten Island, Key West, Sarasota, and Bradenton. In 2011 and 2012 he held two solo exhibitions at Daas Gallery and Art for ACTS Gallery in the city of Fort Myers. In June 2014, he held a solo exhibition at the Studio at Gulf and Pine Gallery Most recently he received one honorable mention award from Art Uptown gallery and two honorable mention awards from Art Center Sarasota.

It’s artsHOP time Celebrate artsHOP in style at the Artists’ Guild of Anna Maria Island Gallery located at 5414 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, on Friday, Nov. 10, from 5 to 7:30 p.m.

Explore, unique, one-of-a-kind pieces and collections of local artists created especially for artsHOP: paintings, photographs, sculpture, stained glass, and jewelry at this all-volunteer, artist guild. Meet the artists and learn about their work.

They will offer live music and light refreshments.

24

NOVEMBER 8, 2017

www.amisun.com

NOVEMBER 8, 2017

Vaught’s Vietnam

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

Each year, the Anna Maria Island Sun features a local veteran for Veteran’s Day. We have introduced many Island and Cortez veterans of World War II to our readers, but this year, with the popularity of the Vietnam War series on PBS, we chose a Vietnam vet.

We didn’t have far to look.

Tom Vaught has been a reporter and photographer for The Sun since its first issue hit the street at the turn of this century.

A while back, he tacked a photo of a scene from the film “Apocalypse Now” on his cubicle wall in the newsroom showing Robert Duvall’s pronouncement that “Charlie don’t surf.” That’s when his service came to light.

“Charlie” is short for “Victor Charlie,”

the name American troops gave the enemy Viet Cong, or North Vietnamese.

To Tom, “Charlie don’t surf” is a reminder that the enemy meant business.

Tom enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps for three years, following the lead of his brother, who also served in Vietnam. It was the only branch of the service he ever considered.

He never told their mom that they were once in the same rocket attack.

After training in San Diego in July, 1968, he found himself in An Hoa, South Vietnam.

After that, he was “always on ready,” and didn’t have a good night’s sleep until he got back home.

“When I watched Da Nang fall, I said

to myself, ‘At least there are no more explosions,’” he said of the beginning of the end of the war, which resulted in a North Vietnamese victory.

The constant noise of battle has put him off Fourth of July fireworks on the Island, but the holiday is perhaps more meaningful to Tom because of it, and is one reason he looks forward every year to covering Peace Day at Anna Maria Elementary School.

“Everybody’s mad and upset, and everybody’s right, and we need to change it. We need to plant a seed with these kids and hope they go with it,” he said.

As Tom and his comrades listened to shots flying overhead, he said they knew about the peace-ins and anti-war protests back home, but didn’t take it personally. However, he objected to protesters who burned the American flag.

The troops got their news from DJs

like Adrian Cronauer, made famous

by Robin Williams in the film, “Good Morning Vietnam.” The real Cronauer had a calmer, more soothing delivery than the Williams version, Tom recalls, but was almost as entertaining.

Tom said he would like to visit Vietnam again, without the chaos of war, because he likes the people.

He probably won’t go surfing this time, though.

Surfing at China Beach, a recreational area for in-country U.S. troops, “is the closest I came to dying,” he joked, adding that he had to be rescued by a Navy lifeguard. While struggling against the South China Sea, Tom said he was thinking that if he died, his epitaph would be, “He surfed his country well.”

Happy Veteran’s Day, Corporal Vaught, and to all Vietnam vets. Welcome home, and thanks for your service.

25

cindy lane | SUN

Above, Veterans Park has its own Vietnam wall; it also honors veterans from World War I, World War II and Korea.

Left, Old Glory flies at Veterans Park in Bradenton with the POW/MIA flag.

cindy lane | SUN

submitted

Above, a helicopter sits at the air strip in An Hoa., where Vaught served.

Left, Anna Maria Island Sun reporter Tom Vaught views the Vietnam wall at Veterans Park in Bradenton.

Below, Vaught with his brother, Mike, a Bradenton resident, while on in-country R&R in DaNang.

cindy lane | SUN

The focal point of Veteran’s Park is a ‘V’ for victory with the seals of the five branches of military service.

cindy lane | SUN

26

THE SUN

OUTDOORS

NOVEMBER 8, 2017

Left(y) is right Reel Time RUSTY CHINNIS

C

lose your eyes for a moment and visualize the first time you tried to ride a bike. If you were like me, it was a process of wobbling uncontrollably while heading for the nearest patch of grass for a soft landing. Fast forward to today and think about the motor skills that were necessary to master this feat and how you can jump on a two-wheeled vehicle without so much as a second thought.

The same applies to fly casting – with your right hand, left hand or both hands! It’s as easy as riding a bike. Of course, neither fly cast-

ing nor bike riding is really easy.

We create the necessary muscle memory for these motor skills through repetition and refine the skills through experience. Eventually, we are able to effortlessly ride a bike or cast a fly rod with either hand!

Whenever I pick up a fly rod with my non-dominant hand, I remember something Lefty Kreh asked me, “Do you know how to cast left (or right) handed?”

When he asked most students that question they would say, “No.” Lefty would quickly reply, “You can cast left handed, you just don’t know how.”

That was an Aha! moment that started me on a path to learn how to cast with both hands.

At about the same time, I put a new desk in my office that required I use my left hand with the mouse.

I’ll never forget how that mouse felt as if it was being operated by another body. The really amazing part was that within a few days, I was using my left hand almost as proficiently as my right. This reinforced my desire to cast with both hands.

The next major hurdle in the evolution of my casting came on a float trip down a river in Colorado.

As my guide bounced me from the left bank to the right to hit the best holes, I began switching hands, making a cast with my left hand and then with my right. It was one of those moments referred to as a quantum leap when I was getting the job done with both hands. It was also a great lesson in how being ambidextrous with a fly rod benefits the caster.

If you’ve ever been stung by a rUSTY CHINNIS | sun

see reel time, page 27

Lefty Kreh works with a student who’s learning to cast left handed

Men’s Store & Fly Shop Saltwater Fly Fishing Specialists Premium Brands

Sage, Orvis, G. Loomis, R.L. Winston, Scott, Clutch, Echo, Redington, Tibor, TFO, Nautilus, Waterworks-Lamson, Hatch, Simms, Patagonia

401 Pine Avenue Anna Maria 941-254-4996

www.amisun.com

NOVEMBER 8, 2017

THE SUN

27

Plentiful bait fires up fish Captain Dave White

There’s bait everywhere! If you’ve been on the water at all, it’s hard not to notice all of the activity! Big schools of pilchards and threadfin herring are everywhere.

These baitfish, coupled with perfect water temperatures have the fish fired up. From big gag grouper inshore to schools of bonita crashing the beaches.

We here at Anna Maria Charters have been spending a ton of time fly fishing. Client catches range from amberjack to tripletail.

Bonita are about the most fun you can have on an 8wt fly rod. It’s been a lot of fun watching my clients get on the other end of these fast moving little torpedos. The ever-finicky tripletail have been showing up a bit now that the crab traps are out there. These are always exciting to watch take a fly.

Good luck out there.

captain DAVE WHITE | SUbmitted

Ryan Kauffman, of Brevard, N.C., shows of a gorgeous tripletail caught on a Clouser Minnow with Captain David White, of Anna Maria Charters.

reel time: Left(y) is right FROM PAGE 26

weighted fly from the wind blowing over your dominant shoulder, or blown that backhanded cast to a tarpon approaching from the wrong direction, you know all too well that being able to switch hands can enhance your enjoyment of fly fishing.

It really boils down to making a commitment to learn a new

skill. In most cases, we don’t have enough motivation to really work on what is a natural ability. I think Lefty Kreh said it best when he told a skeptical student, “If you lost your right hand, you’d quickly learn to eat with your left” You can master this skill by using your dominant hand to help instruct your non-dominant hand or just learn by repetition with

your non-dominate hand. Knowing how to cast with either hand will definitely increase your enjoyment of fly fishing. Catching more fish will be an added benefit. More importantly, if you should suffer an injury or lose the use of a hand, arm or shoulder, it won’t spell the end of your ability to fly fish.

28

THE SUN

www.amisun.com

NOVEMBER 8, 2017

www.amisun.com

NOVEMBER 8, 2017

THE SUN

29

Vote for Uncle George

BY SEAN MURPHY SPECIAL TO THE SUN

M

y Uncle George had moved from the cove to a nice suburban neighborhood.

Nice lawns. Nice shrubberies.

George hated shrub-

beries.

He ripped out all the shrubberies and paved his entire property with horse poop and planted blueberries.

The blueberries loved the horse poop but it drove George’s neighbors crazy.

The neighbors complained to the city commission. The commission started bugging Uncle George. George decided to run for commissioner.

He asked my dad for help.

Dad ran an Irish Catholic political machine. He had 500 dead guys that were still voting.

He called them his reliables The reliables were run by a corps of good Irish Ladies.

It went like this.

Mrs O’neil handed out the ballots at the polling station.

Mrs Kelly registered the voters.

Mrs Kelly went house to house to see who could vote. She went to Mrs O’Malley’s house on Dublin Street.

Mrs O’Malley invited her in for tea. Mrs Kelly enquired about Mrs O’Malley’s dear departed father, Sean.

“Will Sean be able to vote?”

“He wouldn’t miss it.”

Mrs Kelly put a little tick by Sean’s name on her voting list.

The ringers did the voting for the dead guys.

Big Mike Kelly was a cab driver who ran a team of ringers.

The day before Election Day, Mike went to the jail and found five guys.

He got them cleaned up and gave them each 20 bucks.

On Election Day Big Mike drove his five ringers to the polling place.

Mike went in first and got his ballot from Mrs O’Neil. When he went into the booth he put the ballot in his pocket.

Back at the cab, Mike marked the ballot then gave the marked ballot to the ringer along with a little card with the name of his dead guy and his address. The ringer told

Mrs O’Neil he was Sean O’Malley from Dublin Street.

She gave him a ballot. He went into the booth and put the marked ballot into the box and brought out his clean ballot.

Big Mike took the clean ballot, marked it, and sent in the next guy.

When the ringer system was explained to me, I asked my dad why they went through the elaborate process of pre-marking the ballots.

Dad said, “Well you know, you can't trust the ba***rds.”

Uncle George’s campaign was great fun. We had parades with cars covered with George's posters. All the cousins were hanging out the widows yelling, “Vote for George!”

Then after the parade we would all go back to George’s house and watch his buddies drink rum and tell lies.

A week before the election George had it in the bag.

It scared George to death.

He came to dad.

“You gotta get me outta this.

I never thought I'd win.

Please help me lose.

No one can know.”

Dad cussed.

George pleaded.

The hardest part was keeping it a secret.

At the last minute, dad was able to snatch defeat from the jaws of victory.

On Election Day each of the 20 cab drivers ran the ringers like they always did except they marked all the ballots for the other guy.

Genius.

George lost by a whisper.

He did well enough to keep his respect and his horse poop.

No one was the wiser except for dad and the 20 cab drivers.

George’s horse poop grew the most abundant blueberries in the county, and I learned a valuable lesson about politics – sometimes it's all about horse poop.

Hope you all voted. Every voter who shows up at the Doctor’s Office or Eat Here or the Beach Bistro bar with their I Voted sticker gets the first one on us.

Dead or alive.

Sean Murphy is the Head Coach of the incredibly talented team that runs the Beach Bistro, its little sister Eat Here, and their new craft cocktail bar, The Doctors Office. Some of his articles can be found on the Bistro’s web-site, www.beachbistro.com

Surfside … Anna Maria Island

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

941.778.6444 www.BeachBistro.com

30

THE SUN

ENTERTAINMENT

Classes Paper folding at library

Judy Pruitt presents her origami class at the Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, on Saturday, Nov. 11, from 10 a.m. to noon. Learn this ancient Japanese art of paper folding. The class is free. For more information, call the library at 941-778-6341.

Get computer friendlier

The Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, hosts a computer class that will discuss security while you search online on Tuesday, Nov. 14, from 2 to 4 p.m. It’s free. Call the library at 941-778-6341 for more information.

Sunset Tai Chi at Robinson

Dr. Brian Nell, a fifth degree black belt in kung fu and certified Tai Chi instructor, will lead a tai chi session on Tuesday, Nov. 14, from 5 t 6 p.m. at Robinson Preserve, 1704 99th St. N.W., Bradenton. Tai chi is a great way to shake off the stresses of the day, It also improves balance and flexibility as it teaches correct breathing.

This class, suitable for beginners as well as longtime practitioners, will include an exploration of several different styles of Tai Chi and Qigong.

Cypress Pillar Healing Arts sponsors the class, which is suitable for ages 13 and up. Reservations are required. Call 941-742-5757, ext. 6, to reserve a spot.

Clubs Fun time at library

The Island Branch Library 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, has some sitting-down fun on Wednesday, Nov. 8, for those wanting to exercise their brains. The Coloring Club meets at

noon and the Chess Club convenes at 4 p.m. It’s fun, and it’s free. Call the library at 942-778-6341 for more information.

Nature

Mark your calendar

There will be a Master Gardener tour of Riverview Pointe Preserve, 8250 DeSoto Memorial Hwy, Bradenton, on Saturday, Nov. 11, at 9 a.m. Attendees will stroll through the preserve, located near De Soto National Memorial to learn more about Florida’s native plants and inhabitants of a coastal habitat.

The hike begins in the parking area of the memorial park and enters into Riverview Pointe Preserve. Sponsored by the IFAS Extension Program/Florida Master Gardeners, the hike is suitable for all ages. Call the Master Gardener Office for reservations at 941-722-4524.

The Anna Maria Garden Club begins the new season with its annual plant sale on Saturday, Nov. 18, at Roser Community Church, 512 Pine, Anna Maria, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. The sale features native plants, succulents, assorted herbs, hanging baskets, and homegrown plants by club members and impressive raffle prizes.

Proceeds from the sale and raffles will be used to aid and protect native trees, birds, plants and to encourage civic planting and conservation. For more information, call Charlotte at 941-778-6758.

Family Fun Giving thanks

Children’s service specialist Trudy Bell has some fun for preschoolers and their parents on Tuesday, Nov. 14, at 10 a.m. at the Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. It’s preschool story time, and she will be speaking about giving thanks with the Thanksgiving holiday ahead. For more information, call the library at 941-7786341.

Festivals Seniors go Greek

Senior Adventures will attend the Greek Festrival in Tampa on Friday, Nov. 10. The bus leaves Annie Silver Community Center, 103 23rd St. N., Bradenton Beach, at 10 a.m. Bring money for the entry fee, and the van fee is $5. Make reservations by calling Kaye Bell at 941-538-0945.

Learn about the flora

Bring your camera

Join photographer Rob Hamilton for a spectacular sunset viewed from the Leffis Key overlook on Tuesday, Nov. 14, from 5 to 6:30 p.m. Walk the boardwalks of this spectacular preserve south of Bradenton Beach at Coquina Park Bayside.Watch overhead for a chance to photograph the Island’s migratory birds heading to roost. This is a special evening program to make use of the golden light of sunset that is suitable for adults. Reservations are required. Call 941-742-5757, ext. 9.

Personal Development Chair yoga returns

The Anna Maria Island Art League is hosting gentle chair yoga with instructor Cindy Phillips on Wednesdays from noon to 12:45 p.m. at 5312 Holmes Blvd., Holmes Beach. The cost is $12 per class. Spaces are limited.

Phillips is the owner and director of Island Yoga Space. She holds a bachelors degree in humanities/ performing arts from Southern Oregon University.

NOVEMBER 8, 2017

Gentle chair yoga combines breathing with postures to help improve strength, flexibility, balance and tranquility. This class will focus on stretching to foster healing and soothing of the spirit and gaining an overall sense of well being, followed by balance and strengthening poses utilizing a chair as a prop.

For more information, call 941-7782099 or visit Anna Maria Island Art League Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Just for veterans

Veterans who are having problems or who have questions about benefits can visit the Island Branch Library on Thursdays from 9 to 11 a.m. A veteran’s services specialist will be available to help. For more information, call the library at 941-778-6341.

Writing Advice for writers at Roser

Mary Lechleidner speaks at noon on Tuesday, Nov. 14, on writing and getting a book published at the Roser Guild luncheon in the fellowship hall.

Lechleidner is the author of several novels. Since she started writing in 1994, she has published 19 women’s fiction books, both historical and contemporary, for several publishers, including St. Martin’s Press, Steeple Hill, and most recently, for Bethany House.

Her most recent trilogy, “At Home in Trinity,” chronicles the life and work of a 19th century midwife, and she will have one set of the trilogy to offer as a door prize for anyone who brings a canned good for the Food Pantry. She will also have a free copy of one of the books for the first 50 who attend.

All Guild luncheons and teas will be pot luck (with the exception of the March luncheon and fashion show). For more information, call Roser Community Church at 941-778-0414.

www.amisun.com

NOVEMBER 8, 2017

THE SUN

cnobb: Potential deficiencies

31

Behind the stage Actress Robin Rhodes leads members f the Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce on a tour of the Island Players on Wednesday, Oct. 25, at the Chamber Business Card Exchange.

FROM PAGE 10

utes states: “Any candidate or political committee failing to file a report on the designated due date is subject to a fine for each late day.”

On Nov. 2, Sanclemente sent Metz a letter regarding the treasurer’s report.

“I have received your campaign treasurer’s report summary, and I have found two insufficiencies.

1. Tjet Martin has signed as chairperson on the treasurer’s report you submitted, however Mr. Vincent is listed as the chairperson on the DS-DE 41 (form) submitted on 10/24.

2. The spending of funds before registering as a committee,” the letter said.

Sanclemente said the financial report should be amended to address these insufficiencies.

TOM VAUGHT | SUN

CNOBB finances

MAYOR: Contact with Sunshine defendants FROM PAGE 9

Sept. 14, Shay returned a call from Shearon and they spoke for 13 minutes.

Between the lawsuit filing and the shade meeting, Shearon had six phone conversations with Metz, eight with Mapes and six with Vincent. On Aug. 13, he initiated a 13-minute call to Metz.

On Aug. 14, he had two calls with Vincent totaling 14 minutes. On Aug. 24, he initiated a 24-minute conversation with Metz. On Aug. 26, he initiated a 17-minute conversation with Mapes.

Mayor’s explanation

The Sun asked Shearon if any

Loving Christ •Sharing His Grace •Serving All COMMUNITY CHURCH

SUNDAY WORSHIP

Call for a ride to the 10:00 AM Worship Service

8:30 AM in the Chapel 10:00 AM in the Sanctuary

10:00 AM Nursery & Church School 8:45 AM Adult Bible Study

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

512 Pine Ave • Anna Maria

The campaign treasurer’s report lists $4,430 in loans and contributions and $3,812 in expenditures.

The report lists two dozen $10-$20 membership fees received between Aug. 15 and Aug. 23, and four more on Oct. 10.

On Oct. 10, CNOBB member and Bradenton Beach Marina President Mike Bazzy contributed $1,070, and Martin loaned CNOBB $1,000. On Oct. 23, Metz and CNOBB member Reed Mapes each loaned the political committee $1,000. If the political committee disbands after the elections, any remaining funds could be used to reimburse those who made the loans.

The only contribution received after CNOBB filed its statement of organization on Oct. 24 was the $50 former City Commissioner Janie Robertson donated on Oct. 26.

The $396 expenditure for campaign postcards and the $154 expenditure for postage are dated Oct. 10. The $80 reimbursement for a post office box is dated Aug. 22. The only expenditure dated after the statement of organization was filed is the $179 reimbursement made to a CNOBB member for newsletters.

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

of these calls pertained to the lawsuit.

“No. I do not talk about the lawsuit. That’s against the law. Do you think I’d be that damn dumb?” he said.

“They’re personal friends. I’m allowed to use my city cell phone for personal use. There’s times, for example, when we’ve been out for dinner,” he added.

When asked if the calls pertained to other CNOBB matters, Shearon said, “I’m 70 years old.

Sometimes I have trouble remembering what I had for breakfast yesterday, and you’re asking me what a phone call was about two months ago.”

The Sun asked Watrous if Shearon’s communications could jeopardize the city’s case.

“Not necessarily. It would depend upon the content of the conversations. I think it would be prudent for the mayor and I to have a discussion on this. In a larger municipality, it would probably be unusual, but in a small, close-knit community and city government such as Bradenton Beach I’d like to afford the mayor an opportunity to explain. This puts me on notice and I’m going to make some inquiries,” he said.

32

www.amisun.com

THE SUN

NOVEMBER 8, 2017

Commission questions Bayfest security The use of private security personnel at next year’s Bayfest event could now be in question.

They were telling people

BY JOE HENDRICKS

to stay on my property

SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amsun.com

ANNA MARIA – City Commissioner and Anna Maria General Store and Deli owner Brian Seymour has concerns about the private security used during the recent Bayfest event hosted by the Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce.

Seymour cited his concerns during the Oct. 26 Anna Maria Commission meeting, and he directed his comments to Mayor Dan Murphy and Sgt. Russell Schnering.

“It’s bad enough that the business community gets their businesses blocked and the street shut down, but then to have the Chamber station security guards, especially out front of my business, trying to prevent my customers from buying things in my business that day, I had a real problem with that,” Seymour said.

“They were telling people to stay on my property and drink beer, which you can’t do under my license. It’s illegal, I’m a to-go business. They went back to their boss, the chamber president (Deb Wing), and she told them, no, they’re not allowed to be out on the street with anything that we sell. I was told last year if the street’s closed, then drinking’s permitted,” Seymour said regarding the canned and bottled beer sold inside his store.

Seymour questioned whether the city’s special event permit requirements per-

and drink beer, which you can’t do under my license.”

Brian Seymour, Commissioner and business owner

joe hendricks | SUN

Business owner and City Commissioner Brian Seymour is not a fan of using private security at Bayfest. taining to security needs to be reexamined.

“It created some real potential issues, basically trying to tell me how to operate my business while they’re impacting my business. The security people were claiming they were directed by the Chamber president.

"My main concern was the direction she was giving the security team; and then what they were telling my customers could cost me my license. It’s confusing to the security company. It put them in a difficult position. They have to listen to the person paying them,” Seymour said.

Murphy said he would be meeting with

Wing soon and he invited Seymour to join him.

“That needs follow-up and action,” Murphy said Commissioner Doug Copeland said to Schnering, “I saw you down there, along with a couple deputies. How would you rate, other than this complaint, the private security? Because in the past, we’ve always had the sheriff’s department do it.”

Schnering responded with silence, which prompted Copeland to say, “Thank you for your overwhelming endorsement.”

“That was my conclusion as well. We’re going to use the Sheriff’s Department

for our events,” Murphy said, noting that private security did work well for the Sandbar restaurant’s Fourth of July fireworks display.

“Ed Chiles got his own security for that event, but it was pretty much contained to his property and the beach and not all of Pine Avenue,” Murphy said.

“I assume one of the reasons they got the private security was because it was cheaper than the sheriff,” Copeland said regarding Bayfest.

“When you meet with them, you might see if they can connect with the Tourist Development Council and become joint partners with them because that frees up funds for security from the TDC if it’s an event they’re sponsoring. Guys walking around in black T-shirts, you don’t know that they’re security. We see our deputies, you know they are security,” Copeland said.

NOVEMBER 8, 2017

www.amisun.com

THE SUN

33

Chantelle Lewin | Sun

Power knocked out A work crew using cameras to inspect sewer lines near the intersection of Willow Avenue and North Shore Drive in Anna Maria accidentally hooked onto a television cable and pulled down several power poles and transformers Friday morning, leaving more than 100 households without power for most of the day. The incident occurred at approximately 7 a.m., and a Florida Power and Light representative told Mayor Dan Murphy it could take up to nine hours for the power to be restored. “It looks like an earthquake,� Murphy said late Friday morning. According to Murphy, the power was fully restored by approximately 6:30 p.m. Friday evening.

FREE

HOME DELIVERY

Call for Details

778-3986

34

THE SUN

REAL ESTATE

NOVEMBER 8, 2017

Is the mortgage tax deduction doomed?

H

ave you heard that the Trump administration and Congress are trying to get some level of tax reform accomplished? If you haven’t, you’re either living under a rock or like a lot of Americans, you can’t stand to listen to one more news report. Well this time you might want to switch from your Netflix escape to real news.

The tax reform plan was finally announced on Nov. 2. There is still a long way for this proposed bill to go before becoming law, but there are significant proposals in it that will affect property owners. As predicted, the standard deduction is being doubled, which could make it more advantageous for some homeowners not to itemize their deductions, primarily their mortgage interest, making this popular deduction irrelevant for some homeowners.

Why is this such a big deal? It’s a big deal because depending on your finan-

Castles in the Sand Louise Bolger cial position, the size of your mortgage and a variety of other deductions, it may be beneficial not to itemize your tax return and just take the standard deduction. The argument is that the middle-class homeowner with less valuable property would opt for the standard deduction, while the government is still giving a subsidized tax deduction for homeowners with more expensive properties.

In addition, the proposed plan is reducing the mortgage interest cap from $1 million to $500,000 and also capping property tax deductions at $10,000. Neither of these changes

will be good for high end property owners in states where property taxes are high. And as of this writing, the eligibility of mortgage deductions for second homes is vague as is the one time capital gains deduction.

According to an analysis by Zillow, about 30 percent of U.S. homes are valuable enough to make it worthwhile to take the mortgage interest deduction and the state and local property taxes.

Under the proposed changes, that would drop to 5 percent. This would make the proposed standard deduction a better option for most taxpayers.

Naturally, the real estate industry led by the National Association of Realtors (NRA) is incensed, saying the tax plan “would all but nullify the incentive to purchase a home for most, amounting to a de facto tax increase.” The NRA had PricewaterhouseCoopers conduct a study with the outcome that home prices nationally would likely drop 10

percent in the short term, but most economists expect prices to recover over time.

This would certainly be an adjustment for most Americans who have come to depend on their mortgage and tax deductions. But considering the median home value in the U.S. is just over $200,000, many tax payers could do better with a increased standard deduction.

Homeownership is higher in some countries with no mortgage interest deduction. Canada has a 69 percent home-ownership rate and the United Kingdom a 71 percent home-ownership rate and neither country has a mortgage interest deduction. The homeownership in the U.S. is 64 percent.

Could the proposed caps on mortgage interest and property taxes create a negative incentive to purchase a see bolger, page 41

www.amisun.com

NOVEMBER 8, 2017

THE SUN

35

Grand tree removal debated City ordinance defines a grand tree as one that is 24 inches or greater measured at 4.5 feet above ground level.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA – The Anna Maria Commission approved a building permit that allows the removal of two of the three grand trees on an undeveloped lot at 62 North Shore Drive.

It remains to be seen if property owners John Lynch and Lou Ann Eckert Lynch will pursue legal action in hopes of removing a third tree.

On Oct. 26, the commission reached 4-1 consensus stipulating the java plum at the north end of the property and the water oak in the center of lot could be removed, but the live oak at the south edge of the property could not. Commissioner Nancy Yetter cast the lone opposition vote.

Before consensus was reached, attorney Aaron Thomas told the commission his clients would consider

legal action if all three trees could not be removed to make room for the single-family residence that has already been designed. When asked later about the commission’s decision, Thomas said he had no comment.

The commission previously offered to purchase the vacant lot for use as a pocket park when trying settle a Bert Harris claim. The property owners declined the city’s offer and later accepted a settlement that allows 12 occupants in a five-bedroom home.

On Oct. 27, builder Jim Moss pulled the building permit that allows for the two trees to be removed, but as of late last week all three trees remained in place.

City ordinance defines a grand tree as one having a circumference of 24 inches or greater when measured at 4.5 feet above ground level. The removal of a grand tree requires city commission approval, and it must be demonstrated that the tree or trees in question render the lot or parcel nonbuildable.

Australian pines and ficus trees are exempt from the city’s grand tree restrictions.

joe hendricks | SUN

The city commission wants the live oak in the foreground to remain in place, but the two trees behind it can be removed.

36

www.amisun.com

THE SUN

NOVEMBER 8, 2017

PHOTO | SUBMITTED

Enter, if you dare A ghoulish scene greeted those who dared venture into the spooky grounds of the BridgeTender Inn and Dockside Bar's Halloween party last week.

Hearing loop at city hall Anna Maria City Hall is now equipped with a hearing loop that can by synched with hearing aids. The newly-installed system also offers one stand-alone hearing monitor for use by someone attending a city meeting. Deputy Clerk Debbie Haynes arranged for the system to be installed. The system is similar to those already in place at Roser Memorial Community Church in Anna Maria and the Episcopal Church of the Annunciation in Holmes Beach.

FREE HOME

DELIVERY!

www.amisun.com

NOVEMBER 8, 2017

Life-saving app launched A new smartphone app may help Manatee County users save a life in the event of a cardiac arrest.

The app, called Pulse Point Respond, is activated by 911 operators. When a call comes in about a cardiac emergency, the app notifies CPR-trained users within a quarter-mile distance. The idea is that a CPR-trained person who’s already close by can respond to the scene faster than paramedics, starting CPR faster and help-

ing to save more lives than if the victim had to wait for paramedics. Users without CPR also can download the app and use hands-only CPR, which doesn’t require certification.

A second app called Pulse Point AED allows anyone to upload the location of Automated External Defibrillators.

When someone responds to a cardiac arrest emergency using the Pulse Point Respond app, the location of the nearest AED device is also shown in the event the victim’s heart has stopped beating.

THE SUN

Both apps are available for iOS and Android platforms. The apps require the use of location services through the smartphone and will work outside of Manatee County in participating locations nation-wide.

Day dock latest During last week’s Pier Team meeting, Bradenton Beach Police Chief Sam Speciale said it would be at least a few more weeks before the new floating day dock

37

is installed alongside the Historic Bridge Street Pier. On Oct. 27, Speciale received an e-mail from Technomarine USA representative Ben Talbert that said, “The docks are in production and will ship in a few weeks.”

The new dock will replace the stormdamaged dock removed in August.

Previous estimates called for the dock to be installed in September. Speciale attributed some of the delays to Hurricane Irma, and he said he didn’t anticipate the new dock arriving before Thanksgiving.

LO C A L LY K N OW N . G LO B A L LY C O N N E C T E D.

ANNA MARIA ISLAND 306 Gulf Boulevard Laurie M Mock 941-232-3665 A4177531 $2,589,000

ANNA MARIA ISLAND 1710 Gulf Drive N E Tom Bangerter 941-587-6187 A4160661 $1,850,000

ANNA MARIA 871 N Shore Drive Kathy Marshall 941-900-9777 A4197949 $1,699,000

ANNA MARIA ISLAND 200 S Harbor Drive 1 Ken Kavanaugh & Margo Love Story 941-799-1943 A4184153 $1,350,000

ANNA MARIA 727 Holly Road Barbara Dumbaugh 941-350-3743 A4193232 $1,050,000

ANNA MARIA ISLAND 413 Bay Palms Drive Ralph & Megg Faillace 941-713-9142 A4184679 $725,000

ANNA MARIA 234 Gladiolus Street Deborah Capobianco 941-704-2394 A4199942 $675,000

CORTEZ 4121 Osprey Harbour Loop Kathryn Sandberg 847-530-8844 A4199658 $549,000

ANNA MARIA 505 S Bay Boulevard Debbie Vogler 941-705-3328 A4199179 $1,850,000

ANNA MARIA ISLAND 532 70th Street George Myers 941-224-6021 A4184561 $1,770,000

ANNA MARIA ISLAND 8710 Gulf Drive Erica Thomas 941-799-9365 A4160253 $995,000

ANNA MARIA ISLAND 529 69th Street Mark Boehmig 941-807-6936 A4198504 $839,000

NEW CONSTRUCTION

MSC MORTGAGE | MSC TITLE | MS&C COMMERCIAL NEW HOMES & CONDOMINIUMS | RENTAL

ANNA MARIA ISLAND 211 Elm Avenue A George Myers 941-224-6021 A4182668 $469,000

8 8 8 . 552 . 52 2 8

BR ADENTON 3450 77th Avenue W 203 Barb Eberhart 614-204-7687 A4199137 $395,000

RENTAL ANNA MARIA ISLAND 2311 Gulf Drive N B 3 Bed 2 Bath 4852 SqFt $2,350

michaelsaunders.com L I C E N S E D R E A L E S TAT E B R O K E R

38

www.amisun.com

THE SUN

NOVEMBER 8, 2017

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

Anna Maria’s City Pier Park has new shade sails.

Shade sails hoisted

TOM VAUGHT | SUN

The $84,975 shade sail structure is now in place at City Pier Park in Anna Maria. “I think it adds a dramatic look to the park and it’s a great start toward finalizing our City Pier Park,” Mayor Dan Murphy said last Thursday afternoon.

Pavers will be installed under the shade structure during a subsequent phase of the continuing park improvements.

The new shade structure will make its public event debut during the Old Soldiers & Sailors Parade and Veterans Day ceremonies taking place at the park on Friday, Nov. 10. Featuring two marching bands, the parade will begin at City Hall at 1 p.m. and make its way down Pine Avenue to City Pier Park where the veterans’ ceremonies will take place. Gubernatorial candidate Sen. Jack Latvala will be the featured guest speaker.

Meet firefighters Members of West Manatee Fire Rescue visited Anna Maria Elementary School last week to speak about fire prevention and to show them their fire truck and equipment. Firefighter Alex Flores shows the students the truck’s water tank.

SUBMITTED

Catch and release hammerhead Captain Josh Strahorn held his Fourth Annual Halloween Hammer Hunt catch-and-release shark tournament off of Anna Maria Island, where anglers competed for 72 hours over last weekend. Contestants came from as far south as Naples and all the way north to Port Richey. Here, Antoine Santarelli, Jason Zhao and Mitchell Layell measure one of Jason’s catches. The winners were: largest shark, James Quillin, of Team All of The Sharks, 9 feet 1 inch hammerhead; most sharks landed over 5 feet, Team West Coast Florida Shark Club (11); largest shark by female, Vickie Tyson, of Team Lowtide; largest non-shark, Team Fine Bait & Tackle; largest shark on spinning tackle, Shawn Allen, of Team Aquaholics; largest fish on spinning tackle, Jacob Metz, of Team Hammered Hunters; first shark landed, Jason Zhao, of Team W.C.F.S.C.; first shark tagged, Steven Jagmohan, of Team Sloppy Runs.

KATHY CASERTA | SUBMITTED

Martial arts master Holmes Beach resident Vic Caserta was recently awarded the 8th Dan (Pal Dan) Black Belt in Korean Tae Kwon Do. He also received the title of Grand Master under the guidelines of the Kukkiwon World Taekwondo Federation of Korea. Caserta has studied martial arts for more than 45 years and holds various belts in multiple martial art forms. Caserta believes martial arts is a lifetime journey and a never-ending quest for learning, self-improvement, patience and never giving up on your goals.

NOVEMBER 8, 2017

www.amisun.com

THE SUN

39

Top real estate producers for October, 2017 A PARADISE

ISLAND REAL ESTATE – ANNA MARIA

AN ISLAND PLACE REALTY

MICHAEL SAUNDERS ANNA MARIA ISLAND

Quentin Talbert; Helen & Al Pollack - Listing Jo Anne Curtan- Selling Billi Gartman - Listing Sue Carlson - Selling

COLDWELL BANKER

Buky Team - Listing & Selling

DUNCAN REAL ESTATE

Darcie Duncan - Listing Christine Kourik - Selling

EDGEWATER REAL ESTATE

Lynn Zemmer - Listing & Selling

FRAN MAXON REAL ESTATE Stephanie Bell - Listing Briana Shaughnessy - Selling

ISLAND REAL ESTATE – HOLMES BEACH Kathleen White - Listing Alan Galletto - Selling

John van Zandt - Listing Elizabeth Blandford – Selling

Kathy Marshall - Listing Debbie Capobianco & Kristi Berger “The Power of Two” - Selling

MIKE NORMAN

Marianne Norman-Ellis - Listing Carla Beddow - Selling

SATO REAL ESTATE Jason Sato - Listing Ryan Sheck - Selling

WAGNER REAL ESTATE

Debra Ibasfalean - Listing Carol Codella - Selling

40

www.amisun.com

THE SUN

NOVEMBER 8, 2017

dog parK: Improvement planning begins FROM PAGE 1

ers is the park’s irrigation system. Public Works Foreman Dave Benton was on hand for the meeting and agreed to go out with a group of park goers to visually check the sprinkler system on the small dog side.

Users said they felt it wasn’t adequately watering the park, causing grass to die. As part of the park’s renovation process, the stormwater drainage system also will be observed to determine if further improvements are needed.

With a lot of ideas offered for how to spend the $50,000 allotted for park improvements by city commissioners, com-

mittee member Josh Linney said he felt more input from dog park users is needed. He suggested committee members visit the park and talk with users to create a prioritybased list of items to consider.

After the list is collected, dog park users will have a chance to weigh in on what they think is needed and what may be a want if funds are available. Based on that list, committee members will make a presentation to city commissioners to approve the changes and expenditures.

A draft of the priority list is expected to be presented at the next Parks and Beautification Committee meeting in

December.

Johnson said he’s in favor of establishing priorities for the park before action is taken. He warned users that seeing the implementation of changes will be a gradual process involving not only user notice but also notice to neighboring property owners.

Linney also suggested contacting local businesses to see if sponsorships can be obtained for some of the improvements to lessen the financial burden on taxpayers and the city.

“I think this project is completely doable,” he said.

KRISTIN SWAIN | SUN

Mayor Bob Johnson helps to mediate talks between Holmes Beach Dog Park advocates and members of the city’s Parks and Beautification Committee

metz: Challenges Sunshine Law FROM PAGE 1

F. S. 286.011 impermissibly infringes upon speech, assembly, association and petition rights under the First Amendment of the United States Constitution,” the defense claims.

The defense also claims the Sunshine Law violates the rights to peaceably assemble, associate, instruct representatives and petition for redress of grievances under the Florida Constitution: “Chapter 286 targets speech based upon its communicative content and imposes civil and criminal sanctions as a result of speaking and listening to words. The statute is therefore presumptively unconstitutional.”

Metz is one of six defendants accused of violating the Sunshine Law by discussing a parking garage prohibition and other land use issues outside of a city meeting. Metz was a member of the city’s Planning and Zoning Board when this recorded discussion took place at the July 25 Concerned Neighbors of Bradenton Beach meeting. At the time, four of the future defendants served on the planning board and two served on the Scenic Waves Committee. All six have since resigned. Attorney Jim Dye is representing the other defendants.

On Aug. 11, attorney Robert Watrous, with assistance from paralegal Michael Barfield, filed a noncriminal lawsuit on the city’s behalf seeking a ruling on the alleged violations.

“The Sunshine Law requires advance notice to the public and opportunity

joe hendricks | SUN

Former planning and zoning board member John Metz has presented a defense that questions the constitutionality of the Sunshine Law. for public comment at any meeting or discussion on issues that are reasonably foreseeable to come before any board or collegial body. Because the P&Z Board acts as the local planning agency, it is reasonably foreseeable that its duties will include future consideration of whether a parking garage should be constructed within the city,” the lawsuit complaint states.

F.S. 286.011 states: “Any public officer who violates any provision of this section is guilty of a noncriminal infraction, punishable by fine not exceeding $500.

Any person who knowingly violates the provisions of this section by attending a meeting not held in accordance with the provisions hereof is guilty of a misdemeanor of the second degree.”

Attorney General Pam Bondi’s website says telephone conversations and e-mails between board and committee members may also qualify as a meeting under the Sunshine Law. The investigation conducted by Watrous and Barfield produced e-mail exchanges between board and committee members pertaining to parking garages, the Community Redevelop-

ment Agency and the city’s comprehensive plan and future land use map.

“Because Chapter 286 sanctions those who attend ‘meetings,’ it impermissibly infringes not only upon the speech and petition rights of the people and the defendant under the United States and Florida constitutions, but also their right to peaceably assemble and associate under both constitutions,” Shults claimed Metz’s behalf.

“The language of the statute is so vague that it fails to provide persons of common intelligence and understanding adequate notice of the proscribed conduct. In the addition, the statute is impermissibly overbroad and penalizes or, at a minimum, chills the exercise of the fundamental rights of the people and the defendant.”

The defense also claims the attempt to recoup legal fees from the defendants was filed in bad faith and/or is frivolous, that Metz is entitled to recoup his legal fees from the city and that Metz cannot be sued by the city because he no longer serves on the planning board.

Perry told commissioners the city has thus far incurred approximately $16,500 in legal fees and those costs were increased by the defendants’ initial reluctance to comply with public record requests. She also said the proceedings are being delayed.

“Mr. Shults has put a damper on progress by stating that on behalf of Mr. Metz he’s unavailable until January,” Perry said.

www.amisun.com

NOVEMBER 8, 2017

BOLGER: Is mortgage tax deduction doomed?

FROM PAGE 19

home on Anna Maria and our surrounding waterfront areas. Maybe for some buyers, but people still want what we have and have always shown their willingness to pay the price. In fact, my opinion is that it may have a short-term effect on young people and seniors, who are trying to decide if owning a home or renting is beneficial to their tax bracket. Overall, people don’t buy houses because they get a tax deduction; they purchase houses to create a home and live a particular lifestyle.

Chances are the legislation will end up looking a lot different in the end than what is currently proposed, and as with all changes made by the

Overall, people don't buy houses because they get tax deductions; they purchase houses to

Building timelines

“Some people just want their plank back and some people are upset with the whole thing because they weren’t told carving into the wood would shorten the life of their plank. I’ve been told carving names into wood is like taking the crust off a piece of bread – it shortens the life of the plank.

Planks are milled in such a way that water runs off them. When names are carved into them, the water doesn’t run off. Some of them are completely obliterated and you can’t even read the name,” Murphy said.

The pier has been closed since Hurricane Irma damaged the T-end of the structure in early September. It will not reopen until a new pier is built.

On Oct. 17, representatives from the Ayres Associates engineering firm presented commissioners with a project timeline that estimated a 16- to 24-week permitting period, four to six weeks to solicit and review proposals from local contractors, two to four weeks to select a primary contractor and 30 weeks for the actual construction. Ayres estimated a total of 68 to 82 weeks to complete the project.

BEACH BEAT

dow during an argument. The girlfriend was arrested.

10/28, possession of drugs and paraphernalia, Coquina Park, 1600 Gulf Drive S. The officer saw the vehicle in the park after hours. He smelled marijuana and found some, plus cocaine and paraphernalia.

The driver was arrested 10/29, domestic battery, Laverne Street.

The victim said she awakened her boyfriend after he had been drinking all afternoon, and they got into an argument. She said he put his hands around her neck, but did not choke her. She wanted to prefer charges against him, and he was arrested.

10/30 possession of drugs and paraphernalia, Coquina Park, 1600 Gulf Drive South. The officer found a car parked at the beach after hours. He found five females and some marijuana and paraphernalia.

Some of the females were minors, and he called their parents to come get them. The owner of the car was given

Anna Maria

1/21, lost tag, 800 block of North Shore Drive. The victim said he car tag is missing, and she thinks it might have fallen off her car.

10/23, Baker Act, 700 block of North Shore Drive. The subject learned her husband had terminal cancer, and she drove to the residence from Tampa.

She drank alcohol and cut herself.

Authorities were called, and she was uncooperative. She injured a Holmes Beach officer. She was Baker Acted and taken to Blake Medical Center.

Bradenton Beach

10/28, battery, 400 block of Second Street North. The victim said her girlfriend shoved her face into a bathroom win-

Crews are installing a new sidewalk along Gulf Drive in Bradenton Beach from just south of 13th Street South to the North Coquina Beach Boat Ramp. Watch for daytime lane closures and be alert for flaggers.

The lane closures are necessary during the daytime hours to comply with sea turtle nesting lighting restrictions. The contractor is Ajax Paving Industries of Florida, LLC. Expected completion is late 2017.

In Cortez, Crews will begin constructing

interim intersection safety improvements, including median, pedestrian signal, and lane striping work along Cortez Road West at 119th Street West. The Flrida Department of Transportation says motorists should expect lane closures during the daytime or nighttime hours; therefore, drivers should use caution while traveling in this area The contractor is Ajax Paving Industries of Florida, LLC. Expected completion is late 2017.

Fourth-graders perform

particular lifestyle. government, some will benefit us, and some will not. No matter what the final outcome, I guarantee you there will not be a meltdown in the housing market so go ahead and crawl back under your rock until the next crisis.

41

Sidewalks, crossings slow traffic

create a home and live a

PIER: Plank plan pending FROM PAGE 19

THE SUN

The Anna Maria Elementary School presents its first family dinner of the school year on Tuesday, Nov. 14, from 5 to 7 p.m. in the cafeteria. Fratello’s Pizza of Bradenton will be serving Lasagna or cheese and pepperoni pizza with salad and a roll and refreshments for $8 for adults and $5 for

Obituaries Charles 'Ed' Walker Charles “Ed” Walker, 73, of Holmes Beach, Fla., died on July 16, 2017, at Blake Medical Medical Center of natural causes due to complications with pneumonia.

He grew up in Kirkland (Frankfort), Ind., but made Florida his home. Ed is preceded in death by his parents, Floyd and Neva (Davis) Walker, of Kirkland, Ind. He is survived in death by his significant other, Barbara (San) Slayton; three children, daughters, Marsha (Cliff) Bifaro, of Floral City, Fla., Michelle (preceded in death Brad) a notice to appear and he called her parents too because she was unable to drive.

Cortez

10/26. Battery, petit theft, 10100 block of Cortez Road West. The victim had a liquid poured over his head and was hit or kicked in the stomach and someone took his bike while he was passed out on a bus stop bench. He went to the hospital to make sure the liquid was not dangerous.

Holmes Beach

10/28, possession of marijuana and drug paraphernalia, 700 Manatee Avenue. The officer stopped the suspect for having an expired tag and as he spoke to the driver, the officer smelled marijuana.

He called for backup and searched the car finding a baggy of marijuana, a small pipe, rolling papers and a bong.

The driver admitted to owning the

kids. Desserts are available for a donation.

Those who purchase or reserve tickets by Nov. 13 will be entered into a drawing for a gift certificate from Fratello’s.

After dinner, the four grade will perform their play, “Rock Around the 50s.” There is no charge to attend.

Stone, of W Lafayette, Ind., and son, Jack (Jodie) Walker, of Mulberry, Ind. Ed had seven grandchildren, Tosha Sandvold, Jacob Walker (preceded in death), Jason Oliver, Alex Oliver, Zackary Stanfield, Jordan Walker, Shelby Bifaro and Joey Bifaro. He also had 10 wonderful great grandchildren. He had four brothers, Floyd Walker, Larry Walker, Alvin Walker and Richard Walker and two sisters Judy Blackburn and Brenda Maggart.

Ed was the most fun loving, caring and a wonderful son, dad and brother.

You could not ask for a better person He will be missed so much.

There will be a celebration of Ed’s life 10:30 am, Sunday, Nov. 12 at the Anchor Inn, 3007 Gulf Dr., Holmes Beach. drugs and paraphernalia and he was arrested.

10/29, warrant arrest, Manatee Public Beach, 4000 Gulf Drive. The officer stopped the driver for a traffic violation and found out the driver had a warrant.

He was taken into custody.

10/31, burglary to a vehicle, 200 block of 84th Street. The victim said his cars were burglarized and a PA system and music CDs were taken. A neighbor’s cars were also rifled, but nothing was taken. All of the cars were unlocked overnight.

10/31, theft to vehicle, 200 block of 82nd Street. The victim’s car was burglarized, and two knives were taken.

11/1, burglary to a vehicle, 200 block of 82nd Street. The victim said a backpack, two pickleball paddles and four pickleballs were stole from his truck.

11/1, burglary to a vehicle, 8100 block of Gulf Drive. Change was stolen from the vehicle’s console.

42

THE SUN

SPORTS

NOVEMBER 8, 2017

Team Mar/Kis Insurance victorious

BY MONICA SIMPSON SPECIAL TO THE SUN

Going into the final week of regular season play in the Island’s adult co-ed soccer league, Slim’s Place remains at the top of the heap undefeated narrowly winning against Sato Real Estate last Monday night and Acqua Aveda Thursday night. The only team to find itself without a win, Mar/Kis Insurance changed its losing streak against the light roster of Sato Real Estate on Thursday.

While soccer is a team sport, playing short even just one key player can make all of the difference. This was proven as Josh Sato’s team took the field with the captain, Adam Mott, Zoran Kolega, Yunior Guerra and Angela Albrecht. Playing with only four on the field and rotating goalies Sato and Mott, Mar/Kis made goal scoring easy with their top players and substitute players keeping fresh legs on the field.

Mar/Kis’ Miguel Ajoy scored after only a few minutes of play, putting the first goal on the scoreboard during the second game of the night. With the score 1-0, Sato playing the goalie position, tried to tie it up with a hard strike after taking the ball down the field, but with no success.

Early in the game, both teams fought hard on both sides of the ball keeping each other from taking clear shots.

In the 13th minute of the game, Ajoy scored his second goal of the game giving Mar/Kis an early two-point lead.

Teammate Jeremias Gramajo took a shot of his own, followed by a strike by Mott. Mott’s shot bounced hard off of the crossbar and ricocheted out of play.

With five minutes left to play in the first half, Sato Real Estate’s Yunior Guerra took advantage of the empty box, with the Mar/Kis goalie playing the field.

Guerra’s goal moved the scoreboard to 2-1.

Kolega, who was surrounded by the Mar/Kis defense, dribbled the soccer ball down the field and found his golden opportunity to shoot only to have the opposition’s newly picked up goalie save the shot.

With the time on the clock quickly ticking off, Sato cleared the ball down the entire length of the field to end the half, giving his team of five a muchneeded breather.

To start the second 23 minutes of

monica simpson | SUN

Team Sato Real Estate’s Adam Mott showed his versatility Thursday in the goal and on the field.

play, Sato took the field with Mott in the goal for Team Sato Real Estate.

Sato found a clear opening ahead of him down the soccer field, running the ball quickly toward the goal with Omar Polar closing the gap from behind for Team Mar/Kis. Polar’s speed prevented Sato’s shot.

Back and forth play by both teams continued, as Sato Real Estate’s team began to run out of gas. With no subs and playing short, the next 20 minutes of soccer was filled with a strong effort

by Sato’s team, but the advantage to Mar/Kis. After the 30th minute of play, Gramajo scored his team’s third goal, once again putting it ahead by two.

Mott went back onto the field, and Sato returned to box to protect the goal.

Putting Sato in the goal does not mean he will not score. Coming out of the goal, Sato dribbled the soccer ball all the way down the field and took advantage of an opening to score. His hard strike against Mar/Kis’ goalie found a gap hitting the net.

Up by one, Mar/Kis make quick work of the field with back-to-back goals by

the team’s female player Ruby Rodriguez and Ajoy with his third goal of the night. The Ajoy hat trick advanced the score to 5-2 with four minutes left in the game.

Joel Sanchez scored Mar/Kis’ sixth goal of the night, with Mario Prino capping off the victory with a goal of his own after a beautiful assist by Polar ending the game with the score 7-2, putting one in the win column for Team Mar/Kis. With two wins in the season, Moss Builders faces Mar/Kis Thursday night.

Second place Jiffy Lube matches up against Sato Real Estate. In the second game of the night, Acqua Aveda battles Ross Built, both teams having 2-4 records. All will watch in anticipation to see if Mulock Flynn Law can hand Slim’s Place its first loss of the season at 8 p.m.

The Dec. 7 championship game is on the calendars of Island soccer fans, friends and family. Who will play in the 9 p.m. game? Three more games will determine the match-up for the Paul “Ace” Hayward Cup.

Sun Scoreboard Monday, Oct. 30 Adult Co-Ed Soccer League Jiffy Lube Acqua Aveda

7 3

Mulock Flynn Law Mar/Kis Insurance

9 3

Sato Real Estate Slim’s Place

2 3

Moss Builders Ross Built Construction

7 5

Thursday, Nov. 2 Adult Co-Ed Soccer League Mulock Flynn Law Ross Built Construction

1 (4-1-1) 4 (2-4)

Sato Real Estate Mar/Kis Insurance

2 (2-3-1) 7 (1-5)

Jiffy Lube Moss Builders

9 (4-2) 5 (2-4)

Acqua Aveda Slim’s Place

6 (2-4) 7 (6-0)

NOVEMBER 8, 2017

www.amisun.com

THE SUN

43

44

THE SUN

FUN IN THE SUN

Across 1 "More or less" suffix 4 Rose and fell on the waves 10 Tax pros 14 Cohort of Larry and Curly 15 Not widely understood 16 Boffo review 17 Extemporaneous, as a speech 19 Theater honor 20 "Firework" singer Perry 21 Near-perfect bridge feat 23 Amigo 26 Liam of "Michael Collins" 27 Appointed White House overseer 32 __ Vegas 33 Peaceful 34 Dalai Lama's homeland 38 Planets, in poems 40 Not suitable for military service ... or an apt description of 17-, 27-, 49and 64-Across 43 Thick book 44 Salami type 46 Nevada senator Harry 48 Red wine choice, for short 49 Laundry service option 53 '60s dance craze 55 Opus __: "The Da Vinci Code" sect 56 DJ known for playing novelty tunes 59 Surrealist Salvador 63 Geological age 64 Beanstalk giant's chant 67 Unclothed 68 Like bears

69 Alias, on police blotters 70 List of appts.

71 English writer Edward Bulwer-__ 72 "Oedipus __" Down 1 "Didn't hurt a bit!"

2 Living room seat 3 Lift with effort 4 Scoff from Scrooge 5 Calif. neighbor 6 Covertly sends an email dupe to 7 "The Wizard of Oz" author 8 __ terrible: difficult child, in French 9 Rid of parasites, as a dog 10 Multi-discipline strength-training program 11 Painter Picasso 12 Like many nest-builders 13 Look (like) 18 Tap out a text, say 22 Departed 24 N.Y. Jets' org.

25 Bread shape 27 Bathtub blockage

Answers to 11-01-17 Crossword Puzzle.

28 Cocksure Aesopian racer 29 Library ID 30 Mel's Diner waitress 31 Blue toon 35 Memorable clown 36 Disney's "__ and the Detectives" 37 See to 39 Began to melt 41 Stephen of "Michael Collins" 42 Locate 45 Grad 47 Pres. before JFK 50 Beneficial 51 Fancy duds 52 Pal of Rover 53 Perpetrate, as havoc 54 Love to pieces 56 Pats gently 57 Exam 58 "Think nothing __" 60 Many miles off 61 "Use the Force, __" 62 Big-screen format 65 Masculine Italian suffix with bamb66 Marshland

NOVEMBER 8, 2017

NOVEMBER 8, 2017

classified

ANNOUNCEMENTS

TWO JET SKIS: Yamaha 2004 Wave Runner FX 140 and Yamaha 2004 Wave Runner FX Cruiser $1500 each. Good shape, low usage. Call 410-365-9028

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

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

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

Professional and Reliable. Call 941-756-4570

AUTOMOTIVE SALES & SERVICE

THOMPSON CLEANING SERVICE CommercialResidential-Marine.

Island Based Company.

Seasonal Deep Cleaning-Weekly-Occasional.

Call for Free Estimate.

941-281-4951

2007 HONDA SILVERWING For Sale. One owner, 600 cc auto transmission motorcycle, 15000 miles. Many additions, well maintained, garage kept.

Excellent condition. $4000 Call 941-778-2553

AUTHORITY ONE SERVICES. Residential/Commercial/Vacation Rentals & Construction Cleaning.

Also Power Washing, Windows, Paver Sealing & Roof Cleaning.

Ask about your Senior Citizens Discount Call 941-251-5948 or 941565-3931

BABY SITTER RED CROSS CERTIFIED baby sitter. Honor student.

Call or text Isabel 941-5457995

BOATS: SALES & RENTALS BOATS ARE SELLING Very Well. Selling Your Boat? “Business On A Hand Shake”. I Also Buy Boats. Dave 941-228-3489 BRADENTON WATER TOYS. Daily Jet Ski rentals. "We come to you." Sunrise to Sunset. 2 Jet Skis $499.

Call 941-348-0821 SEEKING RENTAL OF BOAT LIFT to accommodate 30’ Boat, approx 10K Lbs, while owner completes build of home on Anna Maria during 2018. Currently living just off Island.

References available.

Please contact Declan on 401-301-6186

Call us today! 941-778-3986

COMMERCIAL SALES

ANNA MARIA ISLAND 4-sale Resorts Bradenton Bch *5 units $1,048,800 *13 units $4,999,000 *9300 Sq. Ft. Ware-house, Machine Shop heavy duty elect or Car Storage, So Many Possibilities. Near SRQ Airport $595,000 Island Real Estate Ask Alan Galletto 941-232-2216

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

EMPLOYMENT VACATION RENTAL RESERVATIONIST (Holmes Beach) Full time Reservationists needed Starting pay $14/ hr. Weekends, some late shifts and on call required.

Exp. in Hospitality, Computer & phone skills a must! Must be able to pass a Background and drug test. Email current resume to Angier@islandreal.com NOW HIRING Anna Maria Island Creamery & Bakery.

9801 Gulf Dr. Suites 1-3.

Contact Shea Khalil via email Shea@amicreamery bakery.com PART TIME RETAIL Sales Position in Anna Maria. Call 941-722-8109 FULL TIME or PART TIME. Cook for PM shift. Experience preferred. Small family Sports Pub. Solo's Pizza.

Call 941-962-4491 BUSY ISLAND REAL ESTATE office seeking weekend front desk help for gulf front resort. Experience a plus Call 941-778-4442 for additional information & application

FISHING CHARTERS CAPT. MAC GREGORY Fishing Charters. Full Day, Half Day, Night, Inshore & Near Shore. 941-809-5783 U.S.C.G. Certified/Insured

FOR SALE SOFA & LOVESEAT. LEATHER, Forest Green $500. Call 941-792-0014 ADULT TRICYCLE 3 wheel bike, brand new, big seat, large basket, easy to ride, still in box! $275, 941-212-1742

GARAGE, MOVING, RUMMAGE & YARD SALES ROSER THRIFT SHOP Open 9:30am-2pm, Tuesday & Thursday 10am-1pm Saturday Donations preferred 9am-11am Wednesdays.

511 Pine Ave., Anna Maria.

Phone 941-779-2733 RUNAWAY BAY ANNUAL Garage Sale, Saturday November 11. 9am-1pm.

Lots of great items! 1801 Gulf Dr North, Bradenton Beach. No Early Sales

THE SUN

ESTATE SALE: FURNITURE, Dive Equipment, Kitchen & More!. 506 70th St, Holmes Beach. November 11 & 12.

9am-2pm.

PALMA SOLA THRIFT STORE 9516 Cortez Rd W Mt Vernon Plaza (Just 2 miles over Cortez Bridge) Bargains Galore!

Quality Furniture & Home Décor. 50% to 75% off. Call Carol 941812-7679

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

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

HOME IMPROVEMENTS

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

Neil 941-726-3077 RENOVATION SPECALIST ALL carpentry repairs, Wash Family Construction, locally owned and operated CBC 1258250 Call 941-7250073.

KERN CONSTRUCTION NEW Homes & Remodel.

Design/Build. Since 1968.

License # CRC1327296.

Call Jerry Kern 941-7781115 www.kernconstructioninc.com WALY PRECISION PAINTING: painting, drywall, stucco, and remodeling, commercial/residential, licensed & insured. Call 941-448-1928 or 941-4656324 www.WalyPrecisionPainting.us DECKOUT MASTER CARPENTER Everything Patio & Dock Decking Work Repair, Replace, Maintenance Work, Cleaning, Treatments, New Decks.

Also Handyman/Painting work to home or office.

Call RICHARD Bespoke Service 941-448-3571 Island Resident.

STORM DAMAGE? Prompt Response. Tree work, Carpentry, Painting, Roof/ Fence Repair, Etc. Medium and Small Jobs Accepted.

See ORANGE AD in Painting Section. Bill Witaszek 941-307-9315

HOME IMPROVEMENT Michigan General Contractor 30+ yrs. experience. Large or small projects. Budget minded knowledgeable tradesman will complete your project start to finish: On Time/On Budget. Call Mike 616-204-8822.

LANDSCAPING & LAWN CARE

R. GAROFALO’S Interlocking brick pavers, driveways, patios, pool decks. Free estimates. Licensed & Insured.

Call Rafael 941-778-4823 or Veronik 941-526-7941 SHELL DELIVERED AND spread $55/yd. Hauling all kinds of gravel, mulch, top soil with free estimates. Call Larry at 941-795-7775, "shell phone" 941-720-0770 STRAIGHT SHOT LANDSCAPE. Specializing in Old Florida Seashell driveways and scapes. Also Rock, Mulch, & Soil. Free estimates. Call Shark Mark 941-301-6067

LOST & FOUND FOUND WAKE BOARD in Holmes Beach (Bay Side) Call 941-779-6485 FOUND WEDDING RING October 2 in Holmes Beach. To Rayburn with love Kathy. Call 941-9008226 LOST ENGAGEMENT RING. Solitaire white gold. Lost on 10/22/2017. Call 770712-8819 FOUND NECKLACE PENDANT near Anna Maria Post office. Call 941-773318 LOST GOLD BRACELET with toggle clasp & charm with 50th anniversary engraved.

Sentimental value. Lost in vicinity of Palm Ave. in Anna Maria. Call 407-8730078.

LOST MY GRANDMOTHER'S gold wedding band (initials inside and date) at Coquina Beach area. Reward.

Call 407-579-1621

45

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 “WIZARD OF WALLS” Established 1980 Prompt quality service.

Paperhanging/removal Faux finishes. Interior painting. Mary Bell 941794-0455 PROFESSIONAL PAINTING SERVICES. Prompt & Reliable. Meticulous, Thorough, Quality Workmanship. Interior/Exterior. Wall paper removal..

Also minor repairs & carpentry. Free written detailed estimates. Bill Witaszek 941-307-9315 BAYSIDE COMMERCIAL PAINTING. David Padyani Call 941-565-9446 or Larry Zimmer 941-2248123 Licensed & Insured DONALD PERKINS PAINTING LLC fully insured. 30 years experience. Many Island references. Call 941-7057096

PERSONAL SERVICES NEED MATH TUTOR? I am a Certified 6th-12th Grade Math Teacher with 30 years experience tutoring. Call 941-5244177

AMISUN.COM

46

THE SUN

classified

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

PRINTING CUSTOM DIGITAL PRINTING "Your printing dream to reality" Specializing in Dye sublimation Printing.

Graphic Design. Performance Active ware. Logo Design. Call Rhonda 330-550-4847

PROFESSIONAL PRESSURE & WINDOW WASHING AUTHORITY ONE CLEANING : Residential, Commercial, Construction and Vacation Rentals . Also available Power Washing, Roof Cleaning and Windows.

Call 941-251-5948

REAL ESTATE HOMES & CONDOS FOR SALE

FROM THE HIGH $200’s. Only minutes from the beach, this new active adult community is perfectly located just south of Manatee Ave, off Village Green Pkwy.

Perfectly designed, open 2BR or 3BR/2BA plus den & 2CG floor plans.

Luxurious amenities, pool, spa, gym, pickle ball and fenced-in dog park. HOA only $190/ month. Models open daily. Contact us 941254-3330 www.MirabellaFlorida.com 113 BEACH AVE 3BR/3BA Pool Home. Great location West of Gulf Drive with Direct beach access! $1,055,000 Call Charles Buky Coldwell Banker 941228-6086

Call us today! 941-778-3986

CANAL FRONT HOMES Holmes Bch - Key Royale GULF FRONT CONDOS Gulf Place, La Casa L’Plage, Waters Edge & MORE. Island Real Estate ASK Alan Galletto 941-232-2216 SLIGHTLY OFF THE ISLAND. 3BR/2BA completely renovated lake house, five miles from the beach. No Condo/HOA Fees, No Deed Restrictions, No Traffic, Huge Boat/RV Storage Area, No Flood Insurance. $319,500. www.690932nd.com. For Sale By Owner. 941-795-5225 PERICO BAY UPDATED 2BR/2BA gorgeous kitchen Stainless Steel appliances tiled throughout $235,000 cibcocorp@optonline.net PERICO BAY CLUB! Light & bright 2BR/2BA With high ceilings & updated kitchen! $212,000.

Island Real Estate- Call Kathleen White 941-7730165.

FOR SALE: 211 85th St. Two blocks to beach.

2BR/2BA, pool. Broker owner Brenda Boyd May. 941-730-8589. $539,000

RENTALS: ANNUAL BRADENTON: 2BR/2BA SECOND LEVEL condo.

34th St. near college.

Split bedroom plan, new carpet throughout, updated kitchen & appliances. Washer dryer hook up in kitchen. Close to shopping & beaches.

Available immed. Water, sewer basic cable incl. $1000/mo $1000 security dep. $100 application fee to condo assn. Application approval required.

2BR/2BA GROUND LEVEL DUPLEX on 34th St W. near Bayfront High. Lake view, W/D hook up. 2 car parking. Split bedroom plan. Ground care & trash included. $1000/mo. $1000 security deposit. $75 application/ background, credit check fee.

2BR/2BA HOME split plan in San Remo with pool and dock. Just under 1600 S/F with two car garage & close to bay end of canal. Bright and cheery on quiet cull de sac. Call for appointment. $2600/ first, last & security. Background & credit check required on tenants 18 years old + .

Ask for Ed DUNCAN REAL ESTATE 941-779-0304 www.teamduncan.com

ANNUAL RENTAL and CONDOMINIUM Association management serviced by (2) offices open 7 days a week! Contact junew@ islandreal.com – 941-3451295 - Island Real Estate of Anna Maria Island, Inc. ANNUAL RENTALS- Holmes Beach 2BR/1.5BA, carport, storage, W/D hookups $1,500/mo.

Non-Smoking. Call Fran Maxon Real Estate for details 941-778-2307.

ANNUAL RENTAL ANNA MARIA CITY, 2BR/1BA half duplex, unfurnished. NO PETS! $1,300/mo - 1st, last, and security req'd.

Call Sato Real Estate, Inc. at 941-778-7200 or email monica@satorealestate. com HOLMES BEACH ANNUAL 1BR/1BA newly updated includes water W/D, Trash. No smoking/No pets $1350/mo. First, last, security Available now Call 860-922-3857

NOVEMBER 8, 2017

ANNUAL AMI. 2BR/2BA. Steps to Beach, shops, galleries & restaurants. $1648/mo. First, last & security. Call 860-9223857 1BR/1BA STUDIO HOLMES BEACH includes all utilities, laundry and pool. $1400/mo. 12 month lease. Call 941345-4379

RENTALS: SEASONAL & VACATION TIFFANY PLACE Gulf Front Condo for Rent Incredible views from living room and master bedroom. 2BR/2BA Green Real Estate Call 941-778-0455

ANNA MARIA ISLAND, Fl Condos. Pool beach access, fully equipped $650-$800/ wk Redekercondos.com 941-704-7525 or 941-7781915 2018 SEASONAL RENTALS Available: 2BR/1BA Gulf front from $3,850 per month, 2BR with sleeping loft from $3,850 per month. Three month minimum. Horizon Realty of Anna Maria 941-778-0426 kringco@tampabay.rr.com

GREAT RATES! Weekly, Monthly. 3BR/2BA NW Bradenton. Call Grace 941-201-2190

TRANSPORTATION AMI TAXI metered-on-callcards accepted. Airport: Tampa $95, Sarasota $40, Clearwater $85, Orlando $165. Call 800-301-4816. amitaxi4u@gmail.com, www.amitaxi.com ANYTIME TRANSPORTATION to all airports, appointments, casino, cruises, etc. Tampa $60. Sarasota $30. Pets welcome. Very dependable. Reasonable rates. Contact Jeanne.

941-779-5095

www.amisun.com

NOVEMBER 8, 2017

business & service directory computer service

home improvement

THE SUN

47

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

HAULING

painting

home improvement

transportation

48

THE SUN

www.amisun.com

NOVEMBER 8, 2017