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Anna Maria Island Sun April 15, 2015

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VOL 15 No. 24

April 15, 2015

Battle of the boats

King Middle School students row to victory in the Bottle Boat Regatta. See more results and photos on Page 32

Commission passes vacation rental ordinance The commission will discuss ending the moratorium on permits for homes with more than three bedrooms at a future meeting. BY TOM VAUGHT SUN STAFF WRITER | tvaught@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA – The city commission took the first step toward getting a handle on the city’s burgeoning vacation rental industry last Thursday when it approved an ordinance that adds rules and regulations for owners

INSIDE NEWS OPINION Sun survey outdoors Town crier restaurants real estate crossword

4 6 7 26-28 41 34-35 36-41 43

and agents of rental properties. The effort began when residents met with real estate rental professionals late last year and developed ways to solve the problems created by houses with large numbers of renters making noise, parking erratically, leaving large amounts of trash for pickup and otherwise disrupting life in residential neighborhoods. The city commission made revisions to the ordinance, resulting in some rental professionals threatening legal action. Jason Sato, of Sato Real Estate, see ordinance, page 42

tom vaught | sun

Recall election date set Vice Mayor Clarke had to tender his pending resignation in order to challenge Mayor Shearon. BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

BRADENTON BEACH – The recall election pitting Mayor Bill Shearon against Vice Mayor Jack Clarke was scheduled for Tuesday, May 19, but could be subject to change due to challenges by Shearon’s supporters. An abbreviated qualifying period for recall candidates commenced Tuesday morning and concludes at noon, on Friday, April 17. Additional candi-

dates may enter the race and obtain a qualifying packet, but will have to act fast in order to meet the qualifying deadline. In regard to voting, those who prefer to vote in perShearon son on May 19 will do so at the Annie Silver Community Center; there will be no in-person early voting period for this election. Vote by mail ballots will be mailed as soon as the qualifying period ends and the ballots are Clarke printed. For those who see recall, page 42

Rotary golf

Silver affaire offers gourmet

AMI club’s inaugural event is a winner. 38

delights. 5

tourney:

Anna Maria Island, Florida

Officer Steve Ogline to receive Congressional award. 12

The Island’s award-winning weekly newspaper

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Post office town hall meeting April 27 Congressman Vern Buchanan has called for a meeting with residents and a representative of the USPS. BY PAT COPELAND SUN STAFF WRITER | pcopeland@amisun.com

HOLMES BEACH – U.S. Congressman Vern Buchanan has responded to appeals to save the post office boxes and post office by setting a town hall meeting on Monday, April 27, at 10:30 a.m. in city hall with a representative of the U.S. Postal Service (USPS). Residents are invited to share their opinions regarding the USPS decision to relocate the location’s 230 post office boxes to Anna Maria or Bradenton Beach, which could cause a burden on residents and business owners. The issue began when Peggy Myers and Jack Jackson, who have had the contract with the USPS in the city for 20 years, planned to retire and sought someone to take over the contract. Meyers said the USPS then said it planned to take out the boxes, but leave the postal services. However, Meyers pointed out that

without the post office boxes, the contract is financially unfeasible, and if no one takes the contract, it could result in the loss of all postal services at that location. Mayor Bob Johnson wrote Buchanan seeking help with the issue, and Buchanan wrote a letter to Nancy Rettinhouse, the district manager of the Suncoast USPS. In the letter, Buchanan said, “I would like to understand the decision to end further contracting post office boxes, which threatens the viability of postal services in Holmes Beach. At minimum, it would force many of my constituents to travel several miles in heavily congested traffic to get their mail. “Furthermore, the USPS has previously maintained that it is more cost effective to contract with a private business or community center to provide postal services than it is to pay postal workers to provide theses services.” Buchanan said it would be a financial burden on businesses, which would be forced to change their addresses, as well as a burden on the Bradenton Beach or Anna Maria post offices.

Please give favorable consideration to their request that the USPS maintain full postal services in Holmes Beach.” Vern Buchanan U.S. Congressman He also sent copies of petitions from more than 100 residents asking to “save our boxes and our post office,” as well as letters from residents and concluded, “Please give favorable consideration to their request that the USPS maintain full postal services in Holmes Beach.”

TOM VAUGHT | SUN

Tower prep Workers started preparing the site of the Anna Maria cell phone tower for its installation. Anna Maria Mayor Dan Murphy said contractors for Florida Tower Partners expect to start erecting the tower by April 23.


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ISLAND NEWS

in brief

Cast-n-Cage rent hearing held On Monday, a judge ordered Cast-n-Cage restaurant owner Roland Pena to place the full $6,800 rent owed to the city each month in the escrow account that holds the rent payments. The city will no longer them accept due to the ongoing efforts to evict him from three city-owned business structures located at the foot of the Historic Bridge Street Pier. Pena had been depositing only the $5,500 owed for the restaurant space, and he must now make up the difference. It was also learned that the hoped-for April 27 date for the eviction hearing is not definite, and no hearing date has been established.

Dog park improvements Holmes Beach Mayor Bob Johnson announced several improvements that will be taking place in the city’s two dog parks. Johnson met with interested residents last week to get their input. Improvements include reestablishing grass growth, adding two new gates, adding two to four larger trees and benches and expanding the small dog park.

Founders plaque to be presented Members of the AMI Historical Society will present a plaque to founders Carolyne Norwood and Pat Copeland in Belle Haven garden on the grounds of the historical museum park at 402 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, on Wednesday, April 22, at 5 p.m. The event is in conjunction with the AMI Chamber business card exchange, which also will be a celebration of AMIHS’s 25 years of success in preserving Island history.

Resignation accepted The Anna Maria City Commission accepted Building Official Bob Welch’s resignation last week. Welch, was assigned to work for the city of Anna Maria by his employer, M.T. Causley, Inc. The city contracted with them to provide a qualified building official. Mayor Dan Murphy said he is mulling three choices: getting a replacement from Causley, hiring a new building official to work for the city or working out a deal to have the city of Holmes Beach provide the service. He said he would work up cost estimates before the next city commission meeting.

Affaire cell phone correction Those planning to bid in the silent auction at the Silver Affaire to Remember should bring their own cell phones or take advantage of personal shoppers provided by the ABC Mobile Bidding Company.

Visit our website, www.amisun.com. Scan this code with your smartphone to go there.

APRIL 15, 2015

LBK mayor calls for traffic study

Traffic congestion may be deterring vacationers and homebuyers from considering Longboat Key, according to the mayor. BY CINDY LANE SUN STAFF WRITER | clane@amisun.com

LONGBOAT KEY – Leaving Anna Maria Island during at least a third of the year - in high tourist season, just now showing signs of slowing down - requires good scheduling and luck; a doctor’s appointment in west Bradenton in the morning, a car repair appointment in east Bradenton in the afternoon, and with luck there’s time for a Wal-Mart trip on the way back. On Longboat Key, residents say leaving for appointments is becoming more of an impossibility than an inconvenience. Residents feel like prisoners in their own homes, turning back from outings and even doctor’s appointments when they can’t get anywhere in traffic, Mayor Jack Duncan told the Council of Governments last week. The presidents of the Sleepy Lagoon and Hideaway Bay homeowners associations wrote the city complaining of worsening traffic, saying they deserve to “leave our homes and island in a reasonable amount of time without fear of being trapped in our cars for hours while trying to obtain a loaf of bread.” Victoria Lyons and Rosemary Dilgard requested area municipalities to cooperate to find solutions like traffic light timing, new roundabouts, police officers to direct traffic and wider roads. “Those of us who have lived here for several years or more have seen a steady increase in the congestion to the point that leaving the island and driving as little as three miles requires hours of one’s time and emotional energy,” they wrote, adding that they are also concerned about hurricane evacuation.

CINDY LANE | SUN

Traffic to the Island is often bumper to bumper and well under the speed limit in high tourist season. Longboat Key has been monitoring seasonal traffic congestion for several years, and it’s “doing nothing but getting worse,” Duncan told officials, adding that tourists are questioning whether the key is a good vacation destination and questioning the wisdom of buying a second home on the key. Duncan called for municipal officials to request that the Florida Department of Transportation initiate a comprehensive regional barrier island traffic analysis to address seasonal congestion relief, including traffic light timing, pedestrian controls, turn lanes and other issues. “I know it sounds like we’re whining, but it is a reality and we really have to begin to examine it,” Duncan said. Officials advised bringing up the issue at a Sarasota/Manatee Metropolitan Planning Organization meeting. The MPO Public Transportation Task Force meets on Monday, June 22, at 8:15 a.m. at 7632 15th St. E. in Sarasota. The Island Transportation Plan-

ning Organization meets Monday, April 20, at 1 p.m. at Holmes Beach City Hall, 5801 Marina Drive. “The problem is people, and we've brought them here and we’re paying for it, Bradenton Councilman Gene Gallo said. Manatee County Tourist Development Council Chair Vanessa Baugh suggested that trolleys and bikes are part of the solution. Holmes Beach Commissioner Jean Peelen said that with the 4 p.m. Council of Governments meeting in Palmetto, and other meetings in Bradenton at 9 a.m. and at noon, she never considered going back home to the Island in between meetings. “I would have been sitting in traffic,” she said. “I know that everyone in city government on the Island agrees. It’s part of the cost of living on the Island, but it’s getting worse and worse and worse and worse. A study is the perfect thing to see who are the big users of the road, and what are the possible solutions.”


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Gourmet delights to greet guests at the Affaire The evening’s food will be presented by the Chiles Restaurant Group. BY PAT COPELAND SUN STAFF WRITER | pcopeland@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA – Guests at the Silver Affaire, the 25th anniversary of the Affaire to Remember, at the Island Community Center on Saturday, April 18, can expect a gourmet dinner presented by The Chiles Restaurant Group. The menu features a selection of hors d’oeuvres including Siberian sturgeon caviar from Mote Marine and Healthy Earth and charcuterie selections including Keith Mann’s Punta Gorda wild boar, cobia sashimi with Beagle Bay sauerkraut and cured Mt. Cook salmon. The entrée begins with Gamble Creek Farm tomato crudites and continues with tiger shrimp with scallion-

FILE PHOTO

Fred Baritzal, of the Bridge Tender Inn will again provide the wine for the Affaire. From left, at last year's event, the Inn's crew, Samantha Corhous, Shannon Dunnan, Baritzal, Sue Shinka and Susan Bartizal had a wonderful time. tied hericot verts and Cervina venison tenderloin with potato gratin. A veg-

etarian options also will be available. Desserts will be by Anna

pacesetter.

Simply Better.

Maria’s Hometown desserts and include vanilla, chocolate and citrus cake truffles.

Before dinner, guests can use their own cell phones or take advantage of personal shoppers provided by the ABC Mobile Bidding Company to vie for silent auction packages, and after dinner, guests should have their paddles ready to bid on fabulous live auction packages. Live auction packages feature everything from trips to the British Virgin Island to San Francisco to the Caribbean, exclusive dinners at Mar Vista and the Beach Bistro and a total marketing package. Guests also can win a gold, amethyst and diamond ring valued at $5,000 and donated by Bridge Street Jewelers or a Harley Davidson motorcycle donated by the Center’s Executive Director Cindy Thompson. Tickets are available at the Center, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria, or the night of the Affaire, when the drawings will be held.


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OPINION

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

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EDITORIAL One step at a time The city of Anna Maria finally passed its vacation rental ordinance after many legal opinions. That means the city will regulate the rental homes instead of trying to get rid of them. On another front, Anna Maria City Commission Chair Chuck Webb continues to talk about getting a declaratory judgment to see if the city could consider vacation rentals a commercial activity, which is not allowed in residential neighborhoods. Members of the rental industry were involved when the city started work on the vacation rental ordinance, but the city ignored some of those contributions and the professionals were unhappy with the results, saying the commission speculated what the professionals were doing instead of asking them. Passage of the vacation rental ordinance brought warnings from attorneys threatening lawsuits, but the prospect of the city taking action against a rental property and going to court to have the judge determine the legality of the vacation rental business is likely to be much more controversial. We think the city should see how the vacation rental ordinance works before tackling the prospect of seeking a declaratory judgment. The night the commission passed the ordinance, vacation rental professionals said they did not like the eight-person limit on occupancy and the harsh penalties for the agents who allow renters to cause disturbances. Violators could lose their city issued rental license for up to two years. Things are likely to be more tense if the city seeks the declaratory judgment. What if the judge finds the activity is illegal? Would the city be able to do much more than prevent new rentals while it grandfathers units already being used as rentals? The residents of the Island will have to live with the rental units for a long time. There's no turning back the clock, so we'll have to work to find the best solution to diminish the impact on our neighborhoods.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

No parking problem

The following letter was sent to the Holmes Beach mayor and commissioners: I am unable to attend the next commission meeting , so I am sending this e-mail to express my opinion and that of many of my neighbors and friends. We have no parking problem on my street. We live in the 100 block (of 79th Street). Many of the streets in the 100 blocks near us have no problems. I am not happy that my taxes are going to unsightly no parking signs and decals. We pay enough taxes now so we should not have to pay for this decal system, not mention the additional people to administer this. Our friends from other parts of the Island come to visit us all the time. Our kids, who grew up coming to the beach all summer, had weddings here. They park in our yard on holidays and we bother no one. The same holds true for our neighbors. Wouldn’t it be easier to call the police if strangers are parking all over

The Anna Maria Island Sun Staff Publishers Mike Field Maggie Field Editor/CEO Mike Field

your yard and making it difficult to get mail delivered and get in/out of your driveway? If not, then just limit parking on the streets that have the real problem. We have been full time residents for a long time and owned property since 1988. The Island was quiet then except on summer holidays. However, times are changing and we have to accept some of it if our merchants are to be profitable. You can’t have it all. This is just a case of too many rules and not enough common sense. You are just making full time residents angry and we need them to stay and keep the Island from becoming one big rental pool. I am asking you to please contain whatever you decide to only the street with real problems. I think you will see that it is very limited, a total waste of your time and not worth implementing new laws. Sue Wheeler Holmes Beach

Save our post office

The following letters regarding the Holmes Beach Post Office were sent to local elected officials: To Congressman Vern Buchanan, Please help save our local post office in Holmes Beach, Fla. We need a complete postal service including post office boxes in our community. Mr. and Mrs. Harold Petraske Holmes Beach It is with much dismay that I read in our local paper that the U.S. Postal Service is considering taking away our post office boxes from our Holmes Beach substation, which could lead to closing the substation in the future. This substation is centrally located in the middle of Anna Maria Island and services many residents, businesses and visitors alike who walk, bike and do not wish to make traffic worse by attempting to drive to the Anna Maria city or Bradenton Beach SEE LETTERS, PAGE 7

Layout Ricardo Fonseca

Outdoors editor Rusty Chinnis

Reporters Pat Copeland Cindy Lane Tom Vaught Joe Hendricks

Ad director Chantelle Lewin Ad assistant Chris Boniberger

Columnists Louise Bolger

Classified ads Bob Alexander

Graphics Elaine Stroili Ricardo Fonseca Web Jocelyn V. Greene Accounting John Reitz

Distribution Bob Alexander Keith Isner Tony McNulty Contributors Steve Borggren Tom Breiter Troy Morgan Monica Simpson


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the sun survey

on the agenda

LAST WEEK’S QUESTION: How would you rank this tourist season?

Anna Maria 4-23: City Commission meeting, 6 p.m. For information, call 7086130.

session, 7 p.m. 4/22: City Commission special meeting, 10 a.m. 4/23: Police Retirement Board, 11:30 a.m. For information, call 7085800.

Bradenton Beach

Island-wide

10005 Gulf Drive

16%

2%

I've seen busier weekends, especially on holidays.

It is setting records for numbers and, like it or not, that's why our Island economy is thriving.

7

107 Gulf Drive N.

4/16: City Commission meeting, noon. 4/21: City Commission work session, 1 p.m. 4/22: Planning and Zoning Board, 1 p.m. 4/23: Charter Review Commission, 33 p.m. For information, call 7781005.

Holmes Beach 5801 Marina Drive

4/15: Coalition of Barrier Island Elected Officials, Holmes Beach City Hall, 2 p.m. 4/15: West Manatee Fire Commission budget work session 6417 Third Ave. W., Bradenton, 5:30 p.m. 4/16: West Manatee Fire Commission meeting, 6417 Third Ave. W., Bradenton, 6 p.m. 4/20: Island Transportation Planning Organization, Holmes Beach City Hall, 1 p.m.

4/16: City Commission work

45%

It may be the busiest, but it's definitely not the best.

THIS WEEK’S SURVEY When the crowds thin out, I can:

mark your calendar

36%

This is, by far, the most people and cars I've ever seen on AMI.

• Go to my favorite restaurant and not wait two hours to get in • Drive down Pine Avenue without dodging pedestrians and bicyclists

• Park at the Anna Maria post office to get my mail • Go to Publix • Leave the house

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LETTERS

facilities who have minimal parking. As a resident and former city commissioner, I respectfully ask that you help keep ourHolmes Beach substation intact with the post office box service. Sandy Haas-Martens Holmes Beach I am the current contractor at the Holmes Beach Post Office.

Thank you for taking up our cause. Enclosed are petitions signed by our box holders and townspeople. You should be hearing from many of our customers. Peggy Myers HBPO contractor To Manatee County Commissioner Carol Whitmore: Elimination of the Holmes Beach Post office boxes will be a substantial hardship. The loss of

Wednesday April 15

Chair yoga, Anna Maria Island Art League, 5312 Holmes Blvd., Holmes Beach, 11:45 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., $8. Register to 941-778-2099. Smartphone class, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2 p.m.

Thursday

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

From Page 6

Note: Events are free unless indicated.

security, personal service, changing addresses on driver’s licenses, checks, business cards, etc. The biggest hardship is losing the location. The Holmes Beach Post Office (for us) is on the way to and from everything. Using Bradenton Beach or Anna Maria will mean a one use, out of the way, daily car trip. R. Griscom Holmes Beach

April 16

Friends of the Island Library Book Club, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m. Successful Women Aligning Together, Bridge Street Bistro, 111 Gulf Drive, Bradenton Beach, 11:45 a.m. to 1:15 p.m. Members, $12, guests, $17. RSVP to swatami@ gmail.com Knitting/crochet group, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2 p.m.

Friday April 17

Mindfulness in nature stroll, Robinson Preserve, 99th Street Northwest and 17th Avenue Northwest, Bradenton, 9 to 11 a.m. Reserve to 941-748-4501, ext. 6039,

Saturday April 18

Meditation, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 11 a.m.

Science Saturday, Make a Robot, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2 to 4 p.m.

Sunday April 19

Master Gardener tour, Robinson Preserve, 99th Street Northwest and 17th Avenue Northwest, Bradenton, 9 a.m. Reserve to 941-7224524. Beach Market, Coquina Beach, Bradenton Beach, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Bridge Street Market, Bradenton Beach, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Tuesday April 21

Children’s story time, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m.

Wednesday April 22

Chair yoga, Anna Maria Island Art League, 5312 Holmes Blvd., Holmes Beach, 11:45 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., $8. Register to 941-778-2099. Eye Associates free screening, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2 p.m.

Friday April 24

Forty Carrots program for babies and children to age 5, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m.


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APRIL 15, 2015

Food and Wine on Pine food vendors confirmed Locally owned and independent restaurants will be serving locally-sourced foods. ANNA MARIA – The Chiles Restaurant Group will host the Fifth Annual Food and Wine on Pine on Saturday, May 2, from 11:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. The annual event features the best local food, wine, art and music. More than 20 local restaurants will be serving during this event. Each will serve local and seasonal Florida foods – farm-to-fork produce and tide-to-table heritage seafood from the Gulf waters. This year will see some new restaurants in the mix to further expand the culinary experience. The list includes: • The Sandbar restaurant, Anna Maria – Myakka wild boar sliders, ceviche – Fresh fish, shrimp and scallops, key lime, blood orange, King Farm peaches, Gamble Creek cilantro, served with tortilla chips. • The Beach House restaurant, Bra-

denton Beach – Sesame seared yellow fin tuna cubes served with choice of wasabi cream, sriracha and teriyaki; • Mar Vista Dockside restaurant, Longboat Key –gourmet tater tots; •Gamble Creek Farm, Bradenton – Farm-to-fork produce inspired dish; • Two Scoops Ice Cream Parlor, Anna Maria – Refreshing lemon, mango and raspberry sorbets, mini hot fudge sundaes and mini sea salt caramel ice cream sundaes; • Paradise Bagel, Café and Catering, Holmes Beach – Bruschetta three ways; • Michael's On East, Bradenton – Seared lump meat crab cakes with orange ginger remoulade; • Waterfront restaurant, Anna Maria – Fish tacos; carnitas; • The Feast restaurant, Holmes Beach – Lobster roll; coconut shrimp with orange ginger sauce; conch fritters with Cajun remoulade sauce • Blue Marlin, Bradenton Beach – Mini grouper sandwiches;

• Bridge Street Bistro, Bradenton Beach – Nitro ice cream; • Island Time Bar and Grill, Bradenton Beach – Fish burritos; • Island Spice, Bradenton Beach – dosa, mango lassi, samosa, tandoori drumsticks, chicken tikka masala, channa masal and mint cooler; • EnRich, A Bistro, Bradenton – Israeli cous cous and quinoa salad with chilled shrimp, gazpacho with fruit relish and crème fraiche, Rich’s Nutella panna cotta with crushed hazelnut and Hawaiian red sea salt; • Derek's, Bradenton – Gulf shrimp and grits; • Riverhouse Reef and Grill, Palmetto – Kickin’ Green Goodness shrimp and lobster chowder. • Sage Biscuit Café, Bradenton – Smoked salmon chowder with mini sage biscuit; beer braised beef slider; cucumber chickpea salad with cilantro lime yogurt dressing; •Harry’s Grill and Bistro, Anna Maria –

Bu ffalo wings, hamburgers and cheeseburger sliders; • Polpo Pizza, Sarasota – Bee sting pizza: signature pizza with house made mozzarella, organic tomato sauce, fresh herbs, spicy salami and hot pepper infused with local honey; Parmesan rosemary flatbread; basil lemonade; • Seafood Shack Marina Bar and Grill, Cortez – Crab bisque with sriracha popcorn, house cured smoked salmon BLT sliders, shrimp and grits on a stick; • Southeast H.S., Bradenton – Jambalya over rice; • Sugar Cubed, Bradenton – Tropical coffee and iced tea bar, Key Lime brulee tart with raspberry sauce and a shortbread crust; • Tsunami Sushi and Hibachi Grill, Sarasota – Stuffed shrimp with signature crab delight – lightly fried tempura-style, topped with sweet chili sauce, tropical sensation – tempura kani rolled in rice and seaweed, topped with mango and strawberries, salt and peppered tilapia.


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Participate in the Great American Cleanup Keep Manatee Beautiful (KMB) volunteers will clean up litter and debris from public lands for the Great American Cleanup on Saturday, April 18. Cleanup volunteers helping on Anna Maria Island, in Cortez and along the Palma Sola Causeway will be thanked with an Earth Day Party taking place at Manatee Public Beach, 4000 Gulf Dr., Holmes Beach, compliments of Anna Maria Island Beach Café. Adopt-A-Highway Road and Shore groups are encouraged to clean their adopted sites starting at 9 a.m. Other volunteers can check in at 9 a.m. at any the following centers: • Anna Maria City Hall at 10005 Gulf Drive; • Holmes Beach at Kingfish Boat Ramp on S.R. 64 W.; • AMI Moose Lodge,

Submitted

KMB will launch the Florida Department of Transportation’s Anti-Litter Campaign, “Drive It Home…Keep Our Paradise Litter Free,” to encourage people to properly dispose of trash. This message will appear on the Adopt-A-Shore signs throughout Manatee County and will be on the Great American Cleanup volunteers’ T-shirts 110 Gulf Drive, Bradenton Beach; • F.I.S.H. Preserve at 11601 Cortez Road W. Bring gloves, sunscreen and wear closedtoe shoes. Trash bags and drinks will be provided. Local sponsors include Tropicana, which will be providing beverages for local cleanup volunteers.

Last year, from March through May, 1, 859 KMB volunteers collected 19,395 pounds of trash and 4,625 pounds of recyclables; cleaned 276 miles of roads and highways and 225 miles of shoreline. For more information, call KMB at 941-7958272 or visit manateebeautiful.com.

APRIL 15, 2015


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APRIL 15, 2015

Mayors seek fitness center answers The mayors of Holmes Beach and Anna Maria want more information on the Center’s deficit and options to resolve it. BY PAT COPELAND SUN STAFF WRITER | pcopeland@amisun.com

HOLMES BEACH – Mayor Bob Johnson has written a second letter to Island Community Center board Chairman Blair Schlossberg seeking more information regarding the plan to expand the fitness center throughout the second floor of the Center. The issue began when the Center’s board announced the plan, and residents packed city commission meetings in this city as well as Anna Maria to support two fitness center owners who oppose the plan. Following those meetings, Johnson and Anna Maria Mayor Dan Murphy sent letters to Schlossberg. In his letter, Johnson asked how this type of activity fits within

the comprehensive plan policies supporting the operation of the AMICC and the recreational activities it provides and said the commission would like to understand the Center’s financial situation, including projections for the next several years and other options that were considered. Murphy’s letter said the city was not advised of the plan and that it could jeopardize the Center’s 501 (c) (3) status, which would jeopardize its lease with the city, which owns the property. He asked for financial data for the fitness center, the detailed business model used for formulating the proposal and anticipated revenue streams, fees and agreements with vacation rental owners and agents and requested a meeting with Center representatives.

Center response

Schlossberg responded to both mayors. He said the Center board was challenged with solving a $250K annual structural deficit and saw “visitor based revenues as a ongoing method by which this

can be partially solved.” This is to be realized by seeking property management companies to participate in the Center’s rental membership program in which property owners acquire Center memberships for their renters. He said the fitness center was not the establishment of one, but an expansion of the existing one, and he also took issue with Murphy’s statement about the city not being informed, pointing out that the city’s liaison had attended two board meetings where the plan was discussed. Schlossberg welcomed a meeting with both mayors. Johnson said he has not yet met with Center representatives and sent another letter this week in which he said he would like more information on the structural deficit, program options, what nonprogram options were considered to resolve the financial situation, the impacts of those options and future plans. Murphy was meeting with Center representatives at press time.

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Youth drama classes at Center This class provides experienced, professional instruction in drama, comedy and improvisation which can help children increase focus and self-control. Two separate 8-week classes for kids 4 to 6 years old and 7 to 11 years old will be offered in April. Children must be pre-registered and pre-paid for both classes. Space is limited. Dress code is shirt, pants and sneakers. The 4-to-6-year-olds meet on Tuesdays from 3:30 to 5 p.m. The cost is $140/members and $190/ non-members. This class focuses on imagination through story-telling, getting into character and make believe. This class will inspire the very young. The 7-to-11-year-olds meet on Wednesdays from 3:30 to 5:30pm. The cost is $160/members and $210/non-members. This class focuses on unique acting techniques to build confidence and stay emotionally real through listening and reacting, using scene study, improvisations and monologues. There will be a Showcase at the conclusion of the eight classes. All student actors will participate and perform their acting skills for parents, family and friends. Classes will be taught by Holmes Beach residents and successful Los Angeles acting coaches, Karen and Michael Storms, who own Storms Acting Studio. Karen has coached actors that have gone on to perform leading roles in feature films, as well as make appearances in lead roles on television shows. Enrollment forms are available at the Community Center. For further information, contact Jennifer Griffith, community programs manager, at 941-778-1908, ext. 9204, or e-mail jenniferg@myamicc.com .


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APRIL 15, 2015

Officer to receive Congressional award The awards ceremony will take place on April 17, at the Sarasota County Commission Chambers. BY PAT COPELAND

SUN STAFF WRITER | pcopeland@amisun.com

HOLMES BEACH – Officer Steve Ogline will be awarded the 16th District Congressional Law Enforcement award for actions above and beyond the call of duty. In a letter to Ogline, Congressman Vern Buchanan said he also has been chosen as the Congressional Law Enforcement Officer of the Year. The awards ceremony will take place at 5:30 p.m. on April 17, at the Sarasota County Commission Chambers. Police Chief Bill Tokajer said he nominated Ogline for the award in January for his actions on March 14, 2014, when Ogline “responded to a disturbance call that was physical and in progress involving someone

being injured and blood all over the place. “Upon his arrival of the area, a male flagged down Officer Ogline. The male ran over yelling that his friend was being stabbed to death with a knife Ogline and he pointed to an upstairs apartment.” As Ogline entered the residence, he heard a female yelling for help, followed her voice, kicked open a bathroom door and found the suspect “on top of the female in the bathtub with a knife sticking out of her neck. The suspect was ordered at gunpoint to get up and was arrested without incident.” Tokajer said Ogline’s “swift and brave actions certainly saved the life of the female and possibly others on scene during the incident,” and that he “has always gone above and beyond with his investigations and reports. “This has resulted in several additional

arrests, which would not have been discovered without his extra follow-up and attention to detail.” Mayor Bob Johnson also praised Ogline and said, “Officer Ogline was selected based on his unselfishly quick and brave response that, according to Police Chief Bill Tokajer, saved the life of a victim who was being attacked. “On behalf of the city officials and residents of Holmes Beach, I commend Officer Ogline for his commitment to ensuring public safety. He is a valued asset for our community.” In his letter to Ogline, Buchanan said his actions “showed your courage and resolve. These actions were above and beyond the call of duty and have brought honor to the Holmes Beach Police Department.” Tokajer noted that Ogline was hired by the department in June 2013 and had previously served with the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office and retired after 25 years of service.

These actions were above and beyond the call of duty and have brought honor to the Holmes Beach Police Department.” Vern Buchanan Congressman


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Bradenton Beach policeman honored BY TOM VAUGHT SUN STAFF WRITER | tvaught@amisun.com

BRADENTON BEACH – Officer Mike Bazell has been named Officer of the Year by Police Chief Sam Speciale. Bazell earned the honor for his quick work in taking into custody an underage driver who caused a lot of damage with a stolen heavy-duty pickup into custody. On March 4, 2014, the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office was pursuing a stolen Red Ford dually truck in west Manatee. The pursuit came into the city of Bradenton Beach twice. On the second time, the suspect was coming toward the city, and Bazell positioned himself at the end of the Cortez Bridge with his patrol vehicle. As the stolen vehicle was coming to the city on the Cortez Bridge, the stolen vehicle crashed into several other vehicles on the bridge, causing the suspect to wedge the stolen vehicle between other vehicles. The suspect continued pressing the gas, attempting to get himself free from the other vehicles.

Bazell exited his patrol car and ran up to the stolen vehicle, while the suspect was pressing on the gas and attempting to free his vehicle. Bazell placed himself in harm’s way and in danger of being run over by the suspect to protect the several people walking on the bridge near the crash and the people involved in the crash. Bazell drew his service weapon, while standing outside of the stolen vehicle and ordered the suspect to stop and exit the vehicle. Bazell smashed the driver side window and ordered the suspect out of the stolen car. The suspect was removed from the stolen vehicle through the driver's side window and arrested without further incident or injuries. “Officer Bazell risked his own life to protect the citizens walking on the bridge and the victims involved in the crash,” said Speciale. “Without Officer Bazell’s actions the possibility of further injury or death of the citizens would have been inevitable. Bazell served as a reserve officer for three years before being hired full time eight years ago.

tom vaught | sun

Bradenton Beach Police Chief Sam Speciale shakes hands with officer Mike Bazell, winner of the Officer of the Year award.

Residents learn about Neighborhood Watch Residents interested in organizing a Neighborhood Watch can call 778-COPS. BY PAT COPELAND

SUN STAFF WRITER | pcopeland@amisun.com

HOLMES BEACH – Due to requests from residents, Police Chief Bill Tokajer offered a second Neighborhood

Watch forum last week to explain the program. Tokajer introduced Sgt. Vern McGowin, who will be the department’s Neighborhood Watch specialist; Det. Sgt. Brian Hall, who investigates crimes; and Tami Spyker, a Neighborhood Watch specialist with the city of Bradenton. Spyker said she began 6 ½ years ago with one community with 24 homes and now has 78 communities with 3,500

homes in the Neighborhood Watch program in Bradenton, and crime has decreased an average of 24 percent in those neighborhoods. “Neighborhood Watch is not patrol, going out by foot or car or bike,” she explained. “That’s the old way. It did not see watch, page 18


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Boat building lecture Have you always wanted to build a small boat but weren't sure where to start? The Florida Maritime Museum will present a lecture, “An Introduction to Small Boats,” on Wednesday, April 15, at 3 p.m. at 4415 119th St. W. in Cortez. For more information, call 941-708-6120 or visit http://floridamaritimemuseum.org.

Messabout in boats The Florida Gulf Coast Small Craft Festival will be held at the Sarasota Sailing Squadron on City Island in Sarasota on April 17-19. A casual dinner on Friday, April 17 for arriving boaters night may be potluck or a cash grill with hamburgers, hot dogs and sausages. Saturday will be a messabout on Sarasota Bay, with music and guest speakers followed by dinner. Registration is free, but required. For more information, visit www.facebook.com/FGCTSCA.

Adopt-A-Shore application approved Happy Paddler Kayak Tours & EcoVentures will be happy to clean up the water environment, thanks to the Anna Maria City Commission’s approval of the company’s application to join the Adopt-A-Shore program. The area covered is described as the waters of the Anna Maria City Pier to Magnolia Avenue, a fourth of a mile. Adopt-A-Shore is organized by Keep Manatee Beautiful.

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CINDY LANE | SUN

Friends got together at the Cortez community picnic on Saturday at the picturesque Few-Miller dock on Sarasota Bay.

The finest kind of picnic

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I am passionate about creating a memorable and delicious dining experience for my guests. My restaurant “MJ’s� is romantic, quiet, upscale and cozy. We are a hidden gem, and I guarantee once you visit you’ll be back time and time again! I am proud to be an Originals member and appreciate the importance of supporting other locally owned businesses and our community.

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EAT LIKE A LOCAL DineOriginal.com 15 South Ristorante • Andrea’s • Anna Maria Oyster Bar • Beach House • The Bijou CafÊ • Bridge Street Bistro • The Broken Egg • CafÊ Americano • CafÊ Baci • CafÊ Gabbiano • CafÊ L’Europe • CafÊ Venice • Caragiulos • Cedar Reef Fish Camp • Ciao! Italia • Cosimo’s Restaurant & Catering • The Crow’s Nest • Darwin’s on 4th • Derek’s • Drunken Poet CafÊ • Duval’s • Euphemia Haye • Fast N Fresh • Gold Rush BBQ • Gulf Drive CafÊ + Tiki • Half Shell Seafood House • Harry’s Continental Kitchens • JPAN Restaurant • Lobster Pot • Lynches Pub & Grub • Madfish Grill • Mar Vista Dockside Restaurant & Pub • Michael John’s • Michael’s On East • mi Pueblo • Ophelia’s On The Bay • Ortygia Restaurant • Pacific Rim • Pattigeorge’s • Pier 22 Restaurant • Polo Grill & Bar • Primo! Ristorante • Riverhouse Reef & Grill • Roessler’s Restaurant • Salute! Restaurant • Sandbar Seafood & Spirits • Savory Street • Sharky’s On The Pier • Siesta Key Oyster Bar • SoMa Creek Side • Village CafÊ • The Waterfront Restaurant on Anna Maria • The White Horse Pub

Cortez villagers gathered to see old and new friends, feast on mullet and home-baked desserts and enjoy spring weather on scenic Sarasota Bay at the Few-Miller dock in Cortez on Saturday. There was only one thing missing at the annual community picnic; Cortez commercial fisherman Blue Fulford, who passed away last month, and was the subject of fond recollections. Students from the Manatee School for the Arts presented an original performance about Cortezians and their history and displayed their nautical artwork at the nearby A.P. Bell Fish Co., helping to keep the village’s maritime history alive.

CINDY LANE | SUN

Artwork by Manatee School for the Arts students was on display at the A.P. Bell Fish Co., brightening up the workday for fish house workers during the Cortez community picnic.


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APRIL 15, 2015

Stormwater fees will rise for some Stormwater rates are going to decrease for some and increase for others. BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

BRADENTON BEACH – The city’s new stormwater fee calculation methodology was designed to be more fair and equitable, but those who own single-family homes can expect to see their rates increase. During the Tuesday, April 7, commission workshop meeting, City Engineer Lynn Townsend Burnett presented draft versions of the new stormwater management utility ordinance and the new stormwater management utility fee schedule resolution that mirror similar documents she created for the cites of Holmes Beach and Anna Maria. “The ordinance establishes the methodology, and the resolution establishes the rate,” she explained, when discussing the differences between the two documents. The fee assessment methodology will be same in all three cities, but the rate will differ from city to city and year to year based on each city’s financial needs and stormwater improvement

joe hendricks | sun

As the owner of a single-family home, Commissioner Ed Straight says he expects his stormwater fees to nearly double later this year. obligations. It was noted that Bradenton Beach property owners may see their fees decline in a few years, once contractually-obligated stormwater improvements have been completed. The exact rates will be determined when each city adopts its fee schedule resolutions for the coming fiscal year.

Once adopted, the new fee calculation methods will be based strictly on the square footage of a property, regardless of the number of structures or type of structures located on it. This is a departure from the previous method that took into account numerous variables and placed what some

thought was a higher cost-sharing burden on those who own resorts and multi-resident properties. Burnett and the Bradenton Beach Commission previously discussed an initial rate of $4 per every 100 square feet of property, but the resolution she presented last week listed a rate of $4.40 per 100 square feet. Commissioner Jan Vosburgh asked Burnett how the new fee schedule would impact those who own singlefamily residences. Before she could answer, Commissioner Ed Straight said, “I figured out my own, and it’s pretty much doubling what I paid last year. It’s not a big deal for me, but I fear that if it’s true for me, it will be true for everybody. I paid $120 last year, and if we do the $4.40 it’s going to come out to about $220.” Vosburgh was also informed that she, as the owner of duplex, could expect to see her stormwater fees decrease under this new formula. There was no debate about the new methodology or rate, but Mayor Bill Shearon expressed concern about collecting fees from those who fail to see stormwater, page 17

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PAT COPELAND | SUN

Draining Holmes Beach Workers dug out filtration trenches by the Manatee Public Beach as part of the city’s current drainage project, which includes filling the trenches with stone and filtration fabric, which allows the water to filter down into the ground. As it travels down, it gets cleaned and discharges into the ground water.

stormwater: Fees rise for some FROM PAGE 16

pay, or pay in a timely manner. He said the city lost $10,000 in unpaid stormwater fees last year, and is $9,000 behind in the current fiscal year collection period. Late fees, discounts for those who pay within a certain number of days and tax liens were discussed, and the commission as a whole favored the late fee approach, with specifics to be determined when the resolution is adopted. The commission also agreed that the billing and collection schedule would

continue to be based on the fiscal year that runs from Oct. 1 to Sept. 30, rather than converting to the county method that utilizes the calendar year. Public hearings were scheduled to take place in Anna Maria and Holmes Beach. The first reading and public hearing for Bradenton Beach will take place during the Thursday, April 16, commission meeting, which begins at noon. The new fee schedule will take effect July 1, when the annual stormwater bills are mailed out.


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Committee ready to present findings The City Pier Park Committee will ask the city commission to approve its basic plan an is offering a list of options that could be added. BY TOM VAUGHT SUN STAFF WRITER | tvaught@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA – After several months of looking at the alternatives for the six lots the city owns the City Pier Park Committee will take their findings to the city commission. The members initially looked at whether they wanted to keep the land, since the city owes money on it. After they decided they did, they worked on what to do with it. Mayor Dan Murphy told the committee to not consider the expense when looking at ideas, since he would find the money without looking at the city’s budget. Committee members interviewed people asking them what they would want to see in the park. Member Ruth Uecker did extensive questioning and kept track of whether the interviewee lived here or was visiting, and she kept track of where the non-residents lived.

There were some radical ideas discussed such as moving the parking lot next to the entrance to the pier into the park and west. North Bay Boulevard would be inside the park and a roundabout would replace the intersection with Pine Avenue. The old parking lot at the water’s edge would become park land for people to enjoy watching the bay waters. Other ideas included a water park feature for kids to enjoy, a sound stage for musical performances and a gazebo for relaxing. Instead of going through those ideas, the committee, chaired by resident Bob Patten, decided to put all the ideas into what they called a bucket list and which they now call a peoples’ bucket list. The members of the group – John Chambers, Stevie Coppin, Dusty Crane, Ruth Eucker and Liza Walker – will each speak to the city commission on a different topic. They also decided to take the basics, native landscaping, outdoor furniture and benches and sound barriers, and make that their plan, and let the city commission choose what it wants as money allows. The time and date for that presentation will be decided soon, although the committee has another meeting scheduled on Friday, April 17.

watch: Neighborhood program FROM PAGE 1

work because it became dangerous when you would find somebody and you were either confronting them or scaring them off. Also, the criminals knew when you were on patrol.” She said the program is based on a phone chain and “after you call the police department, you call your neighbors through a phone tree system. It not only alerts your neighbors, but and gives extra eyes and ears to the police department.” Tokajer added, “You know what cars

should be in the neighborhood and when you neighbor is on vacation.” The training teaches people what to call in and what not to call in and how to describe suspects, Spyker said. “When we’re driving up, we’re looking at everyone. The details make a difference,” Tokajer explained. “The more people that are involved, the better,” Spyker said, adding that the first training session takes about an hour. Tokajer said interested residents can call 778-COPS.

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TOM VAUGHT | SUN

New playground The Manatee County Parks and Natural Resources Department installed new playground equipment to Bayfront Park, in Anna Maria. The equipment included a hammerhead shark ride buried in the sand. Maddie McKay, visiting from Springfield, Ill., demonstrates the new slide with various other accessories for kids to enjoy.

Rebooted robot contest set The Manatee County Public Library System is holding a recycled robot contest for two age groups: 8 to 12 years old and 13 to18. There will be a recycled robot workshop on Saturday, April 18, from 1 to 4 p.m. at the Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, in Holmes Beach. Stop in and build

a robot. Supplies will be provided or bring your own. Robots can be turned in to any library in the county system. First prize is a $75 gift certificate to Hobby Lobby and more prizes will be awarded as well. The winners will be announced at the May 16 Recycled Fashion Show at the Central Library.


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Dara Caudill | www.islandphotography.org

Lisa Byrne and Brock Jackson were married on the beautiful beach of the Sandbar restaurant on March 20, 2015. Patti Mckee and Luis Ortiz, of the Sandbar, coordinated the wedding and reception. Lisa and Brock honeymooned on Anna Maria Island and St. Thomas before returning home to Queen Creek, Ariz.

kimberly skardoutos photography

Brittany Woodour and Bryan Taylor Christier were married on March 21, 2015, at the Palmetto Historical Society. Reception was held at enRich Bistro.

Jessica Butterfield and Richard Willard were married at the Sandbar restaurant on March 19, 2015. Patti Mckee and Luis Ortiz coordinated the wedding and reception. Jessica and Richard honeymooned on Anna Maria Island before returning home to Fairfax, Va. Dara Caudill | www.islandphotography.org


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A Perfect Setting.. For Your Perfect Wedding

100 Spring Avenue Anna Maria Island 941.778.8709

200 Gulf Drive North Bradenton Beach 941.778.8718

BeAnIslandBride.com

The Sandbar raises the bar The historic Sandbar restaurant, with its breathtaking sunsets, exceptional customer service and outstanding food, has, for decades, attracted couples celebrating marriages past, present and future. For nine years in a row, readers of The Knot have voted the Sandbar top ceremony and wedding site. Additionally, readers of weddingwire.com have given the Sandbar the Brides Choice Award for 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, and 2015. The Sandbar restaurant pavilion is the most unique venue for weddings on the west coast of Florida and Anna Maria Island, the Beach Wedding Capital of Florida. It is a stand-alone, open-air pavilion steps away from the Gulf of Mexico. The Sandbar’s special events staff and wedding coordinator, Patti McKee, will be with you throughout the planning and event stages. If an indoor air conditioned location for your rehearsal dinner or reception sounds cooler, consider The Studio at Gulf and Pine. It is an elegant art gallery located half block from the Gulf. For more information on The Studio, visit www. studioatgulfandpine.com. For information on the Sandbar Restaurant contact the special events department – Patti McKee, 7788709, pmckee@chilesgroup.com or Luis Ortiz, 778-8712 lortiz@chilesgroup.com – for wedding date availability and all other questions.

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A beachfront wedding

Your dream can come true at the Sunset by Gulf Drive Cafe. The waterfront venue is one of Anna Maria Island’s most appealing sites for wedding celebrations. Located at the south end of the island, Gulf Drive Cafe overlooks sugar-white sand beaches, the Gulf of Mexico’s turquoise-emerald waters and multi-colored horizon during sunset. The Gulf waves provide a picturesque backdrop when saying, “I do.” It has several options when considering where to exchange your vows. The most popular feature is tying the knot near the coastline on a romantic sandy walkway of multi-colored rose petals. You may also choose to have the ceremony performed at the Windsail Pavilion or the Seastar Pavilion, several feet away from the beach. Both are sand-covered, open-aired secluded spaces surrounded by miniature tiki huts. The rustic Sunset Tiki is a reception space perfectly suited for groups over 50 people. It has a lovely marble dance floor for you and your guest to dance the night away! The wedding party and guests are also welcome to dance barefoot in the sand. You also have the choice of bar set up during the length of your reception for private use. A team of experts will work with you on creating your perfect tropical dream wedding. They offer several wedding packages to fit your budget and invite you to visit the property, sample their chef’s creations and learn more about the packages they offer. For more, e-mail gulfdrivetiki@gmail.com

APRIL 15, 2015


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Melissa Barbuto and Travis Winters, of Sarasota, Fla. were married at Gulf Drive CafĂŠ on March 8, 2015. Kelli Gray served as the couple's wedding planner.

Caitlin Brez and Jeremy Chapman were married on the beach of the Tortuga Inn on March 21, 2015. Chuck Caudill provided music for the wedding. Caitlin and Jeremy honeymooned on Anna Maria Island before returning home to Terre Haute, Ind. Jason Olson | submitted

Dara Caudill | www.islandphotography.org

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OUTDOORS

APRIL 15, 2015

Celebrating seagrass

T

he seagrass beds that carpet Sarasota Bay harbor a tremendous array of living creatures. This critical and diverse ecosystem is generally out of sight except at extreme low tides. Sea grasses are actually underwater flowering plants that serve a number of important functions. They produce oxygen, bind sediments and baffle wave action while cleansing the water column. Seagrass roots, their leaves, and the epiphytes and microalgae that cling to them clean water by converting dissolved nutrients into plant matter. Besides giving us clean and clear water, seagrasses are home to the organisms that provide food and shelter for fish, crustaceans, shellfish and wading birds. They also are food source for manatees, sea turtles and various fish and crustaceans. Because they flower, sea grasses require sunlight and are limited to clear, shallow waters. Of the 52 species of seagrasses worldwide, only seven are found in Florida. Three main species are found

Reel Time RUSTY CHINNIS on Floridaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s southwest coast. They include turtle grass (Thalassia testudinum), shoal grass (Halodule wrightii) and manatee grasses (Syringodium filiforme). The historical loss of these species has been extensive throughout Florida. Tampa Bay has lost 81 percent of its historical sea grasses, Sarasota Bay 35 percent and Charlotte Harbor 29 percent. Poor watershed management of stormwater run-off and sewage disposal, dredge and fill operations and scaring from boats have taken a heavy toll on Floridaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s seagrasses. Fortunately organizations like the Sarasota Bay Estuary Program, Tampa Bay Watch and the Tampa Bay Estuary Program have instituted programs to

make citizens aware of the importance of seagrasses. Other improvements also have begun to turn the tide on water quality. The most important of these is the elimination of small, poorly maintained regional sewage systems. From experience, anglers are aware of the importance of these prolific, shallow beds. They experience firsthand the myriad interactions that produce fertile fisheries. They may not understand the intricate web of existence that proceeds from the microscopic level to the fish on the end of their line, but they reap the benefits nonetheless. Government scientists consider sea grasses to be of such importance that they have adopted a no net loss policy to manage them. Despite this pronouncement sea grasses remain under assault. Preventing the loss of valuable sea grasses must be a high priority. Watershed management, replanting, avoidance of direct impacts to existing grasses and mitigation are avenues to reach those goals.

Mitigation involves the replacement of seagrasses impacted by residential and commercial development. Unfortunately the literature reveals that the effectiveness of mitigating seagrass damage is considered, even among the leading wetland scientists, to be marginal at best. In recent years, seagrass have rebounded in Sarasota Bay. It is a foregone conclusion that development will continue to impact coastal areas and their seagrass resources; and it vital that decisions are made that will allow needed development while protecting the quality of our most valuable local resources. Enlightened citizens, anglers and their interest groups must take part in this decision making process. Cost considerations often eclipse concerns for seagrasses, but research reveals see reel time, page 34


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Look for early tarpon in the Gulf Captain Rick Grassett

Anglers fishing with me on my Action Craft flats skiff, the Snook Fin-Addict, out of CB's Saltwater Outfitters on Siesta Key, caught and released trout and Jacks in Sarasota Bay and snook, trout and flounder on flies and CAL jigs with shad tails in Tampa Bay during the past week. Fly anglers fished deep grass flats on both sides of Sarasota Bay with me a couple of days last week. We caught and released trout and Jacks on Ultra Hair Clouser flies fished on sink tip fly lines. Longboat Key winter resident Nick Reding fished the south shore of Tampa Bay with me for a couple of days. We waded and fly-fished, catching and releasing several trout and a couple of reds on my Grassett Flats Minnow and Clouser flies. The best trip of the week was when Bill Beauchamp, from Bradenton, and Doug Manning

CAPTAIN RICK GRASSETT | submitted

Doug Manning caught this flounder while fishing in Tampa Bay with Captain Rick Grassett. from Largo, fished Tampa Bay with me on Friday. They caught and released seven or eight snook, an equal amount of flounder and trout on CAL jigs with shad

tails. Bill caught and released his personal best snook, a 36-inch, 16-pound fish that I had to run down with the push pole to keep him from getting spooled. I was the instructor for a CBâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Saltwater Outfitters OrvisEndorsed Fly Fishing School on Saturday. This was the last fly-fishing school until fall. Look for dates for the fall schedule for Orvis-Endorsed fly fishing schools or Orvis Fly Fishing 101 events at www.cbsoutfitters.com or contact them at (941) 349-4400 or info@ cbsoutfitters.com for more info. Look for reds, snook, flounder and big trout mixed with mullet schools on shallow flats and edges of bars. You may find trout, Spanish mackerel, blues, flounder or pompano on deep grass flats, particularly close to passes. You may find early arriving tarpon in the coastal Gulf.


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New forfeiture policy devised Forfeiture of office proceedings would require fourfifths super majority commission support. BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

BRADENTON BEACH – After 90 minutes of discussion, debate and brainstorming, the Charter Review Committee reached preliminary consensus on the framework for a new forfeiture of office procedure. Thursday afternoon, committee members Rick Bisio, John Burns, Dan DeBaun, Barbara Hug and Jake Spooner, joined by City Attorney Ricinda Perry and commission liaison Jan Vosburgh, devised a forfeiture process that would require a four-fifths super majority commission vote to forward potential forfeiture charges to a trio of outside, independent arbitrators, who would render a legally binding verdict that is not subject to appeal. If adopted, the forfeiture process, if needed, would begin with a commissioner bringing forth specific charges against another commission member. If

joe hendricks | sun

From left, Charter Review Committee members Dan DeBaun, Barbara Hug, Rick Bisio, John Burns and Jake Spooner were formally sworn in during last week’s meeting. four of the five commissioners support the pursuit of forfeiture, the commission and the accused would each select an arbitrator, and the two arbitrators would then select a third. The three arbitrators would serve as judge and jury, with all parties agreeing to abide by their decision. This process would prevent commissioners from rendering final judgement on one of their own. The charter currently allows three commissioners to remove another member. This new approach was devised, as

Burns put it, to prevent three commissioners from “ganging up” on another commissioner. Spooner first lobbied for the four-fifths approach at the previous committee meeting, because he felt it would take a serious offense to garner the support of four members, thus eliminating the possibility of forfeiture proceedings being initiated for lesser or frivolous charges. Language pertaining to the fourthfifths vote and the outside arbitrators would replace the current charter lan-

guage that states, “Notwithstanding any legal proceedings, the commission shall be the sole judge of its members as to the applicability of these provisions.” The provisions referred to are the six existing charter provisions listed as justifiable causes for removal from office. After discussion, the review committee agreed that all six provisions would remain in place, including the somewhat ambiguous and muchdebated provision that states: “An office is forfeited if an elected official violates any standard of conduct established by law for public officials.” This provision pertains to the code of ethics for public officers and employees contained in Florida Statute 112, which addresses offenses such as the improper awarding of contracts and services, doing business with one’s own agency, conflicting employment or contractual relationships, the solicitation and acceptance of gifts and the misuse of public position. The charter currently allows a commissioner to be removed if convicted of a felony while in office. The committee agreed that language should be added see forfeiture, page 31


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Code enforcement debate continues City officials appear to be making headway in regard to how code enforcement complaints are submitted. BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

BRADENTON BEACH – During last week’s department head meeting, Police Chief Sam Speciale again pleaded with the mayor and city commissioners to submit their code enforcement complaints in writing. “I have a scenario for you: A neighbor calls up and says someone is breaking into somebody’s house. They don’t call the police, they call a commissioner. Does the commissioner go to the house and see the person breaking into it and then come back and call the police? Then why would we do that with code enforcement?” he said. “We discussed this at a previous meeting; apparently there was some type of misunderstanding because we have gotten back to, ‘My constituents called me and I’m just going to look to see if it’s being done.’ Those are hearsay complaints; I can’t deal in hearsay complaints,” he said.

L A U N N 5th A

joe hendricks | sun

Police Chief Sam Speciale discusses the city’s code enforcement complaint form, while Commissioner Ed Straight looks on. The conversation was spurred by recent code complaints and inquiries initiated, or allegedly initiated, by Mayor Bill Shearon and Commissioner Janie Robertson. Shearon’s verbal inquiry about Island Time Inn’s ice cream service was found to have no merit; as were concerns

about cars parked on the vacant Bridge Street lot owned by Jake Spooner, which Shearon inquired about and Robertson allegedly inquired about. Robertson denies inquiring about Spooner’s lot, but Speciale and Code Enforcement Officer Gail Garneau stand by their assertions that she did.

“I did not inquire of either Sam or Gail about Jake’s lot because I don’t have a code enforcement issue with it. The lot is private property and Jake is allowing parking on it. My only concern is that a citizen may perceive it as a city public parking lot and sue the city if there is an incident,” Robertson said, in an e-mail sent prior to the meeting. Robertson also took issue with the Sun reporting that she voiced opinions similar to Shearon’s in regard to his disagreement with Speciale in regard to the need for written complaints. “I did not offer a view nor an opinion. I stated a fact,” she said, in regard to her reference to the code enforcement hotline that allows callers to leave anonymous complaints. Speciale said written complaints would help eliminate the he-said, shesaid, they-said narrative that recently ensued, and he stressed the need for proper documentation. “If this would have gone to the special master or gone to court, they would have looked at us, laughed and thrown it in the trash because none of this was done correctly,” he said of the unfounded complaints. see code, page 31

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30

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APRIL 15, 2015

Pallets needed for chicks BY CINDY LANE SUN STAFF WRITER | clane@amisun.com

Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch is seeking donations of pallets to be placed on the beach for shorebird chicks to hide under when predators approach. The pallets will be painted in palettes chosen by Anna Maria Elementary School students, Turtle Watch Director Suzi Fox said. Chicks haven’t started hatching yet, as their parents have just begun to nest, she said, but it won’t be long. Two snowy plovers have laid nests, each with three eggs, she said, adding, “We are seeing a gathering of black skimmers around the 26th Street area” in Bradenton Beach preparing to nest. Nesting areas are roped off to protect the nests from beachgoers; nests are laid in the sand and are well camouflaged. If Turtle Watch gets more pallets than they need – about

CINDY LANE | SUN

Least tern chicks are guarded by a parent as they hide under pallets in Bradenton Beach. a half dozen – they will donate the rest to other bird organizations in the state, which are anxious to begin following the lead Turtle Watch established last year, the first year they placed pallets on the Island’s

beaches. If you have pallets to donate, call Turtle Watch at 941-7785638 and they will pick them up or you can drop them off at 2213 Avenue B in Bradenton Beach.


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code: Debate continues FROM PAGE 29

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m begging you, if a person walks up and gives you a complaint, please tell them to fill out a complaint,â&#x20AC;? he said. When Robertson asked how to handle anonymous complaints left on her personal answering machine, Speciale told her to submit a written complaint that notes the anonymous nature of its origin. It was also suggested that she utilize caller ID to determine who left the message, which is what the police department and code enforcement do. Speciale encountered continued resistance from Shearon, who said, â&#x20AC;&#x153;I disagree that something has to be put in writing, whether it be an elected official, a voter or a visitor; anybody has the right to complain or question what they feel is an improper activity.â&#x20AC;? Building Official Steve Gilbert agreed

Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m begging you, if a person walks up to you and gives you a complaint, please tell them to fill out a complaint.â&#x20AC;? Sam Speciale Police chief that e-mail and verbal direction given to staff needs to be accompanied by, or substituted with, a written complaint in order to withstand legal scrutiny.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;If I want to make a complaint, Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll call the code enforcement line and make it (anonymously),â&#x20AC;? Shearon countered. â&#x20AC;&#x153;If thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the game everybody wants to play, thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fine, but what you just said was you would circumvent the rules,â&#x20AC;? Speciale told Shearon. Shearon eventually acquiesced, at least to the point where he asked if the complaint form could be simplified in order to avoid confusion as to whether the complainant had to include photographs and determine who owns the property. Speciale said this could be done because Garneau can provide that information when she investigates the complaint. Complaint forms can be obtained from the clerkâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s office, and Speciale said he would also put the form at the city Website.

forfeiture: New policy devised FROM PAGE 28

also to address local laws and ordinances and first and second degree misdemeanors, applicable to the laws of any city an elected official resides in or visits. Perry suggested the charter allow for forfeiture efforts to be initiated once a commissioner has been formally charged with committing a crime, but Burns and others were adamant that the charter language refer to being convicted, not charged, in accordance with the constitutional rights of being

innocent until proven guilty. The newly proposed forfeiture framework signals a departure from a previously discussed approach that would have relied on preliminary review and determination by the Florida Commission on Ethics. When conducting his own independent research, Bisio learned the ethics commission penalizes violators of the state code of ethics with fines only, and does not make forfeiture determinations or rule on violations of local law. The committee hopes to wrap

up its forfeiture discussions at the next meeting, and the new forfeiture framework, if supported by the commission and approved by city voters in November, would be accompanied by an ordinance or resolution that provides additional procedural guidelines. The next major items slated for review will be a possible switch to a non-voting mayor form of government and the elimination or continued use of geographically determined commission ward districts.

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APRIL 15, 2015

Fun prevails at Bottle Boat Regatta It was a warm spring day at the Palma Sola Causeway last Saturday as a crowd gathered to watch the 27th Annual Bottle Boat Regatta . Sponsored by the Hernando DeSoto Heritage Festival, the competition got off to an auspicious start when all of the team members fell off one of the boats after starting the race, but the action picked up after that. Stewart A Elementary won the elemen-

tary school division, followed by the Palma Sola Panthers and the Little Goats. The King Middle School Crusaders won their division, followed by Team Dirty Goats and the King Middle School Shootin' Stars. Demetrios' Pizza House's Lady Anchovies won the Women's Adult Division; Team Anchovy won the Adult Civic Division; and USA Fence Co. took home the prestigious Festival Cup.

tOM VAUGHT | SUN

Left, members of the Palma Sola Panthers play catch-up after everyone fell off the boat. Above, top, the Stewart Elementary School Shooting Stars celebrate after beating the Palma Sola Elementary School Panthers in the first race. Above, the contestants in a small boat head for the finish line.

Island Falcons help strengthen Saint Stephen’s LAX team BY MONICA SIMPSON SPECIAL TO THE SUN

With sticks in hand, four Anna Maria Island teens aided in the success of the Saint Stephen’s Episcopal School’s varsity lacrosse team this spring. Playing a stick and ball sport indigenous to Native Americans, Tommy Pierce, Andrew and Jake Ross, and Luke Valadie proudly wore Falcon green and gold as the team went up against some of the area's independent schools. The Rosses and Valadie are alumni of Anna Maria Elementary School and attended King Middle School before starting their high school academics at Saint Stephen’s. The sport of lacrosse, or LAX as it is known, is one of the oldest sports known to be played in North America and dates back to the 17th century. For Saint Stephen’s, founded in 1970, lacrosse is a relatively new sport; and some would say the Falcons' lacrosse program is still in its developmental stages, but improving each season. Coming off a hard 2014 season, the Falcons were led by a new head coach and many new players who had never touched a stick before the start of the 2015 season. Valadie and the Ross

SUZANNE GOEDERS | SUBMITTED

From left, Saint Stephen's Falcons Varsity Lacrosse Team Represented by Jake Ross, Luke Valadie, Andrew Ross and Tommy Price. brothers discovered lacrosse this year. Despite having never played before, they were keys to the team’s success, scoring five and six goals this season, respectively.; and Pierce held his position on the field and assisted his teammates each time he was called to play. Jake Ross joined the lacrosse squad late in the season after a strong first season

of wrestling for the Falcons. With a 2-10 record, the 2014 season was difficult for Saint Stephen’s, but hard work and a strong team effort led the Falcons to an improved regular season record of 5-6. Going into their first district playoff game, the team hoped to finally defeat the rival Out-of-Door Academy (ODA),

from Sarasota. Founded in 1924, ODA has had a lacrosse program for quite some time and is known for its strong program. Despite previous blowouts by ODA's varsity team, the Falcons remained optimistic as they headed into the playoffs. On April 7, in what would be their final game of the season, the Falcons could not defend against two quick and early goals scored by ODA, but the Falcons quickly came back with goals scored by Ali Sammour and Samson Yang. Sammour fired back with his second goal of the night bringing the score to 3-2 in favor of the Falcons. Before the end of the half, ODA scored two more goals to close out the first two quarters leading 4-3. Despite a strong first half, the Falcons could not hold on against the more experienced ODA team and lost the semi-final game 14-3. The 2015 season came to a close with players, coaches, family and friends looking forward to next season with a squad that is young and developing into a cohesive team. The Ross brothers and Valadie are freshmen, and joined by Pierce, a sophomore, and the other returning Falcons, 2016 is sure to be an even more successful season.


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APRIL 15, 2015

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33

Holy maternity season, bat mom! BY CINDY LANE

I

t’s shorebird nesting season on Anna Maria Island’s beaches, as everyone who doesn’t have their beak buried in the sand probably knows. But bet you didn’t know that it’s also bat season. Make that bat maternity season to be precise, and while it seems like it should, it does not start on Halloween. It starts on Wednesday, April 15, when baby bats become a tax deduction for their parents. No, the press release from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission did not arrive on April 1, and the FWC really is up on birds, turtles, dolphins, manatees and even horseshoe crabs, so there’s every reason to believe it’s true. Baby bats are being born beginning today. They are not hatched, because even though they can fly like birds, which lay eggs, they’re mammals. Not as cute as manatees, but still mammals. We actually do have some bats on the Island, aside from the ones who go to commission meetings and say things like, “Let’s pass an ordinance to make tourists use parasails to get to trolley stops to clear up traffic on Gulf Drive.” Bats are living at Grassy Point Preserve in Holmes Beach, placed there after being rescued and rehabilitated. The city even put up a bat house for them, similar to the bat houses that spontaneously appear in trees in the Transylvania wilderness. But if bats decide they like your house better, here’s what you need to know. Bats can roost in your attic, eaves or chimney – or even in your belfry, if you have one and know what it looks like. It’s illegal in Florida to harm or kill bats, or to try to persuade them to leave your belfry, etc., after April 15. But next Aug. 15, when bat season is over, check out www. MyFWC.com/Bats for tips. Meanwhile, if there’s only one bat in your house, you’re legally allowed to try the following, according to the FWC: Stay calm, and put down the broom. Turn on a light (they’re not vampires, after all, unless they’re vampire bats, in which case, like Houston, you have a problem).

CINDY LANE | SUN

A bat house awaits the start of bat maternity season at Grassy Point Preserve in Holmes Beach. Close all the doors in the room, and open a window. They didn’t say this, but they probably mean one that does not have a screen on it. The bat is likely to fly out, the FWC says, promising that other bats are unlikely to fly in. In the unlikely event that the bat does not fly out, you can put on a heavy work glove and wait for it to land, then pick it up and take it outside, the FWC says. Or you can take a large plastic bowl and slowly creep, step by step, up to where the bat is sitting, place the bowl over the bat and slide a copy of The Sun under it, then take it outside. Helpful hint: It’s best to rummage around for The Sun first, since by the time you find it, the bat will have knocked the plastic bowl off whatever it’s on and will be flying around again (The Sunand-bowl method is time tested on lizards, but lizards don’t fly. No warranties, express or implied, are expressed or implied). In the unlikely event that the bat flies back through one of the open windows, repeat the procedure, or learn to like bats. In the unlikely event that more bats fly in an open window while

you are repeating the procedure, the FWC, at 888-404-FWCC (3922), or *FWC or #FWC on a cell phone, does not invite you to call them. According to the FWC, Florida has 13 native bat species, including threatened and rare species such as the Florida (Easter?) bonneted bat. These native bats (but apparently not bats visiting from up north), help keep mosquitoes and other insects under control, with the average bat eating hundreds of insects a night, saving billions and billions of dollars in pesticides, and virtually eliminating your need for screens that would prevent bats from flying out of your house. To attract bats around the outside of your house as nature’s mosquito repellent, don’t chop down trees with cavities in their trunks and don’t trim dead fronds on palm trees, which are bat roosting spots. You can also put up a bat house. And, since bats don’t wear shoes, and are therefore not allowed on the beach trolley, please also consider putting up a bat garage for their batmobiles.


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APRIL 15, 2015

reel time: Celebrate seagrass FROM PAGE 26

the true value of these resources. The Virnstein and Morris study conducted in 1996 in the Indian River Lagoon estimated the value of seagrass to be $12,500 per acre, per year, based solely on economic values derived from recreational and commercial fisheries. To celebrate Earth Day, Sarasota County and local partners are inviting the public to volunteer in a seagrass survey on Saturday, April 25, at Ken Thompson Park in Sarasota. The fun, family-friendly, hands-on event will provide the public with an opportunity to learn about seagrass habitat up-close. Volunteers will take to the waters in and around Sarasota Bay to count and identify seagrass spe-

cies, in an effort to collect data for the county's Seagrass Monitoring Program. The seagrass survey is open to the public, and snorkelers, waders, kayakers, boaters, and paddle boarders are invited to participate. The seagrass survey celebrates Sarasota County's commitment to protecting its water resources and focuses on increasing awareness of the economic and environmental value of seagrass habitat. Seagrass is vital to maintaining healthy aquatic ecosystems, stabilizing shorelines and providing food and shelter for a variety of wildlife. Seventy percent of Florida's fisheries species, such as shrimp and trout, spend part of their life in seagrass. This year's

survey theme, Seagrass: The Lawn That Doesn't Need Fertilizer, focuses on how stormwater pollution, like too much fertilizer placed on our lawns, harms seagrass habitat. Excess nutrients can result in algae blooms that block necessary light from reaching sea grasses. To participate, register by April 20 at seagrasssurvey. eventbrite.com. On-site training is required for all participants and will be conducted from 8 to 9 a.m. Data collection is scheduled from 9 a.m. until noon. There will be a volunteer appreciation luncheon after the event from noon until 1:00 p.m. Ken Thompson Park is located at 1700 Ken Thompson Parkway in Sarasota, just east of Mote Marine Laboratory.

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APRIL 15, 2015

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35

Few storms in hurricane forecast The forecast is for seven named storms, three hurricanes and one major hurricane for this summer. BY TOM VAUGHT SUNSTAFF WRITER | tvaught@amisun.com

The probability of a hurricane hitting the East Coast of the United States, including Florida, is 15 percent, down from the average for the last century of 31 percent. The forecast for our upcoming hurricane season is rosy, but forecasts are general views of the situation, and it only takes one storm to make it a bad season. That’s the latest forecast from the Colorado State University Department of Atmospheric Science in Ft. Collins and the ongoing opinion of those in charge of safety and evacuations in Manatee County and Anna Maria Island. Bradenton Beach Police Lt. John Cosby is that city’s safety

officer and he has been a storm safety and evacuation specialist longer than anyone else on the Island. He says the rosy forecast can be a dangerous thing. “Those who hear the forecast will be less likely to stock up on supplies and update their evacuation plans,” he said. “That forecast is for everywhere, but if the lone hurricane in the forecast hits us, this would not be a good storm season. Don’t let down your guard. Be prepared.” The forecast calls for seven named storms, 12 is the median number; 30 named storm days, 60.1 is the median; three hurricanes, 6.5 is the median; 10 hurricane days, 21.3 is the median; one major hurricane, two is the median; 0.5 major hurricane days, 3.9 is the median. The forecasters at CSU, Dr. Philip J. Klotzbach and Dr. William M. Gray, expect the development of at least moderate El Nino conditions, which lead to upper atmospheric wind shear that rips storms apart as they develop. These conditions have

been evident in past seasons. Another indicator is the fact that the tropical and subtropical Atlantic are cooler than normal, inhibiting the formation of storms coming west from Africa. On another front, Dr. Gray, who has been with the forecast team since 1984, is stepping away from the project to work on climate change and global warming. He turned over the reigns to Dr. Klotzbach in 2006, but always participated in the formulation of forecasts. He said next season he will not be involved, unless he is needed. “I expect and hope that Phil Klotzbach will carry these CSU seasonal hurricane forecasts forward for many years into the future with his ever improving hurricane-climate understanding and continuous forecast skill improvement,” Gray wrote. “There is no one (in my view) better able to do this than Phil. I will assist him in the coming years as much as I can.”


36

THE SUN

REAL ESTATE

APRIL 15, 2015

Ready for a vacation home?

L

ast week we talked about seven metro regions in the state of Florida being among the top 50 growth regions in the country. Our area was about mid-way in the seven top Florida regions and we can expect these numbers to keep moving upwards. Much of the growth in Florida has to do with the estimated 76 million baby boomers retiring or beginning to organize their lives in anticipation of retirement. This has resulted in vacation home sales hitting an all-time high not only in Florida but in other areas of the country as well. The National Association of Realtors estimates that vacation home sales amounted to 1.13 million properties last year, up a robust 57.4 percent from 2013. When you consider that 2013 was up 30 percent over 2012, you’re looking at a substantial trend. The last previous high was in 2006 for vacation home sales, and 2014 topped that becoming the biggest

Castles in the Sand Louise Bolger year for vacation homes sales volume since the NRA started tracking the market in 2003. In addition, Mark Zandi, the chief economist for Moody’s, noted that vacation home sales account for one-fifth of all home sales. He expects that should rise over the next five to 10 years as the income and number of vacation home buyers increases. The National Association of Realtors reported their findings indicate that vacation home buyers last year had a median household income of $94,380, up from $85,600 in 2013. Last year’s gains in vacation home sales also are due to more purchases of

condominiums and townhomes, with the NRA reporting 45 percent more sales of condos and townhomes than in previous years. Also 46 percent of vacation homes bought last year were in the South, up from 41 percent in 2013. Meanwhile the prospect of rising prices is likely to motivate vacation home buyers to act sooner rather than later. With mortgage rates still around 4 percent, a lot more buyers will qualify for financing, however, the Federal Reserve keeps hinting that rates could go up, so we can anticipate that vacation and second home buyers who have the ability to act now will do so. Another motivator is that second homes are still entitled to a mortgage tax deduction for the first $1 million of financing. Not too much of this is news to Anna Maria. The trend on the Island is shifting away from residential homes to vacation homes and rentals and is anticipated to grow as more and more is written

about Anna Maria’s beaches and the Old Florida vibe. This trend was talked about at a recent meeting with the Urban Land Institute on Anna Maria. Members also discussed that the Island can expect 80 to 90 more single family homes, 20 to 30 more rental units and 40 to 60 more hotel rooms each year. Along with this growth will naturally come more businesses, more beachgoers, and it goes without saying more traffic. Only about 19 percent of the Island’s population are permanent residents, a number that will inevitably go down. After the winter that the Northeast just experienced, anyone who might be thinking about a vacation or second home in Florida, may be more than ready to jump in. Growth is what we’re all about in Florida, and if you don’t like it, I suggest you go to North Dakota. Oh, don’t they have snow and freezing temps there? Well, maybe not.


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APRIL 15, 2015

THE SUN

37

Waste Pro franchise agreement approved The company will provide 64-gallon rolling carts for solid waster and recycling. BY PAT COPELAND SUN STAFF WRITER | pcopeland@amisun.com

HOLMES BEACH – Despite a last minute plea from representatives of Waste Management, city commissioners approved the first reading of a franchise agreement with Waste Pro for solid and yard waste and recycling services. Waste Pro was the only bidder to meet the qualifications for the city’s solid waste and collection services. Waste Management, the city’s provider of those services for 30 years, missed the RFP deadline due to a flat tire. Mayor Bob Johnson said he worked through the process to get the draft agreement, and Chair Judy Titsworth asked about the differences in this agreement and the current one with Waste Management. “Essentially the services are the same,” Johnson responded. “We have restructured the franchise agreement to be more specific in identifying residential, rental, condo and commer-

cial services and addressing the great increase in rentals in the residential zone. “One important change is the use of single stream, 64-gallon recycling carts, which should help in the vacation rental area. We have made some adjustments to the collection schedule, and there will be no weekend pickup.” The schedule includes solid waste on Monday, recycling on Tuesday, yard waste on Wednesday and solid waste on Friday. Side door service is optional, and the number of containers for resort housing units is based on the number of sleeping rooms.

Financially positive

“The agreement is financially very positive for the city,” Johnson continued. “The franchise rate is 12 percent versus 4 percent. The fees for residential customers reflect a decrease of $2 per month, and commercial customers will see a significant decreases.” Waste Pro will service the boat ramp, beach ends, tennis courts and city events at no charge. The agreement is for 10 years as opposed to five as in the past. City Attorney Patricia Petruff

We will sit down tomorrow and start working on transition issues.” Bob Johnson Mayor pointed out that there is no definition of sleeping rooms in the code, and Commissioner Jean Peelen said they could change it to bedrooms for the purpose of this ordinance. After some discussion the others agreed. Titsworth asked if yard waste must be bundled and David Schneider, Waste Pro division manager, said it also could be in a can.

Large items

Titsworth said according to the agreement, the customer must call for

pick up of large items that don’t fit in cans and asked, “It gets picked up now without a call. Will people be receptive to that? What gets picked up and what doesn’t?” Johnson said they tried to identify especially large items in the agreement. Titsworth also said that certain items incur a fee for pickup, and asked if it would be added onto the customer’s bill. Schneider said it would. “My concern is before that starts happening, there has to be a really good education campaign because I would be the most unhappy resident in Manatee County if suddenly I had another $35 or $40 on my bill,” Petruff said. “We don’t want our citizens surprised and start calling in complaints.” Titsworth said people would put large things away from their cans to try and get them taken by pickers first. “We will sit down tomorrow and start working on transition issues,” Johnson said. “There will be an extremely vigorous campaign over the next 35 to 40 days. People need to know what’s going on.” A second reading and public hearing on the agreement is set for Wednesday, April 22, at 10 a.m.


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APRIL 15, 2015

Rotary golf tourney a winner The Rotarians raised more than $5,000, and had a ball doing it. BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

BRADENTON – Wednesday afternoon, one day before the PGA tour pros teed off for the Masters tournament in Augusta, the Rotary Club of Anna Maria Island hosted its inaugural Charity Golf Classic. Held at the IMG Academy Golf Club in Bradenton, the tournament raised between $5,000 and $8,000, which will help fund future charitable endeavors. On Sunday, club President Joe Praetor said the final fund raising figures were still being calculated. Sponsored in part by the Sun, the tournament featured 15 foursomes and 60 golfers who paid the $100 entry fee and competed in a four-person best ball scramble that offered score reducing gimmicks such as mulligans, strings and grenades, which allowed for do-overs, picking up short putts and golf balls occasionally being thrown rather than struck with a club. Sponsored by the Swordfish Grill, the foursome of David Woods, Marty Lee, Lewis Woods, and Chris Osborne claimed

joe hendricks | sun

From left, tournament winners David Woods, Marty Lee, Lewis Woods and Chris Osborne celebrate their victory. first place with an 18-hole low score of 51 that was 22 under par. Team Swordfish celebrated its victory with beers and cocktails at the after party and dinner that took place in the Grille Room. “It was a very good tournament,” Osborne said. “A good, challenging course,” said Lee.

“And a great format,” Lewis Woods added. “The course was in great shape,” said David Woods. Swordfish Grill General Manager Bob Slicker sent a congratulatory text message that said, “There’s nothing like a bunch of good old Cortezian boys. Fishermen are good at everything they do, and that’s what hap-

pens when you eat fresh seafood every day.” The team of Tim Ladner, Tracy Thrall, Chris Houghton and CJ Coury finished second, shooting 54; and Tim Shaughnessy, Mike Shaughnessy, Joe Shaughnessy and Steve Beerwith finished third, shooting 55. On the high end of the scoring spectrum were two foursomes that shot 72. In the longest drive category, Debbie Ormsby outdid her female peers, with Thrall claiming the honor on the men’s side of the ledger. Margret Layh and Adam Zajdel took closest to the pin honors. The after party also featured a raffle that saw numerous tourney participants take home a bevy of gift certificates and other prizes provided by local restaurants and businesses and a round of golf for four provided by IMG. Rotarians Tracy Settle and Tim Shaughnessy co-chaired what is now expected to become an annual event. “It all came together nicely, with 60 golfers and 30 sponsors throughout the Island and the mainland. We’re happy with results and looking forward to next year,” Settle said. “The IMG staff did an exceptional job and the service here is impeccable,” he added.


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APRIL 15, 2015

Hot time on the horseshoe pits Action on April 8 saw three teams meet in a playoff after each went 3-0 during pool play, with Debbie Rhodes and Tim Sofran drawing the bye. The only thing hotter than the weather was the walker Dom Lividoti taking out Marvin Gangemi and Rod Bussey 21-9 to move into the final. Lividoti stayed hot rolling past Rhodes and Sofran 21-0 and earning a well-deserved trip to the winner's circle. Two teams went 3 and 0 on April 11th to move into the knockout round, and this time Steve Doyle had the hot hand and walked his way past Hank Huyghe and Dom Lividoti 21-14 to earn bragging rights for the day.

Royale colors

On Tuesday, April 7, a game of red, white and gold was played at Key Royale Golf Club, using three tees indicated by a color found on the scorecards. The Flight A low net winner, was Sue Little with a 29. Penny Williams, Pam Lowry and Heather Pritchard tied for second with 31. Flight B low net winners Sue Christenson, Cristina Mason and Marcia Helgeson tied with a 29. Terry Westby was the Flight C low net winner with a 28, followed by Trish Kruger with a 29. Flight D low net winner, Kathy Miller had a 36. Flight A low gross winner Debi

THE SUN

39

Wohlers had a 37 and Joy Kaiser was second with a 40. Flight B low gross winner Judy Christensen had a 41 and Marie Scholz was second with a 43. Flight C low gross winner Marty Clark had a 44, followed by Joyce Lathrop with a 47. Flight D low gross winner Marcia O’Brien had a 54. Debi Wohlers had a birdie on hole #5 and a chip-in on hole #9.

Play pickleball at the Center Similar to tennis and combining elements of badminton and ping-pong, pickleball is one of the fastest growing sports in America. The game is fun and energetic, great for all ages and can be learned in a single lesson. Lessons and open and advanced play times are available at the Island Community Center, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria. Call 778-1908 for more information.

Center seeks basketball coaches The Island Community Center is looking for basketball coaches for its spring youth league. It also is accepting registrations for youth basketball and youth baseball. For more information, contact Ray at 941-778-1908 or rayg@myamicc.com.

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THE SUN

BEACH BEAT Anna Maria

4/3, 9:39 a.m., found property, 400 block of South Bay Boulevard. During an arrest, the deputy found a driverâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s license that did not belong to the arrested individual. The license was seized and place in custody of the Sheriffâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Office. 4/4, 11:40 a.., information, 200 block of Gladiolus Street. The complainant said he watched a man walk his dog without a leash and not pick up after the dog. He told the man to clean up his mess, and the man said his dog did not make a mess and walked away. The complainant followed him and found out where he lived and then call the Sheriffâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Office. 4/8. 9:29 p.m., found property, 500 block of South Bay Boulevard. A wallet was found on the beach.

Bradenton Beach

3.28, 5:30 p.m., noise complaint, the Freckled Fin, 101 Bridge Street. The of-

ficer took a reading and found the music was too loud. The manager asked the band to turn down the volume. 3/31, 1:19 p.m., theft, Omaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Pizza, 201 Gulf Drive North. The victim left his car unlocked to make a delivery to the pizza parlor and someone stole his cell phone from his car. 4/6, 5:30 p.m., burglary to a vehicle, beach access at 400 Gulf Drive South. The victim could not lock his rear doors, and someone entered and stole a ring.

Holmes Beach

3/29, 5:04 p.m., Criminal mischief, 100 block of 32nd Street. A window in the victimâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s SUV was smashed out. 3/30, 10:22 a.m., information, 600 Manatee Avenue. A woman said she was involved in a car accident, but she did not want to report it. She said the other driver may have been impaired. The officer searched, but could not find the other driver. 3/31, 9:06 p.m., trespass, 3200 East Bay Drive, Walgreenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s. The officer issued a trespass warning to a man who the manager said had stolen items before.

Chamber seeks worthy scholars

The Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce offers scholarships each year to three exceptional Manatee County high school seniors seeking business degrees. It is accepting applications through April 30. The recipients will be notified by phone in mid-May. The scholarship awards will be presented at the Chamberâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s May Business Card Exchange on May 27 at Acqua Aveda Salon & Spa. If you know of a student who is graduating this year and would like to be considered for the Chamber scholarship program, have them download it from the website at www.amichamber.org under About the Chamber/Event and Scholarship forms or e-mail info@amichamber.org and request a scholarship application.

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APRIL 15, 2015

Obituaries Jane E. Winegarden Jane E. Winegarden, 94, a resident of Freedom Village and formerly of the Perico Bay Club for more than 30 years, passed on April 6, 2015, at the Bradenton Hospice House. Jane was a former special education teacher at Groves High School in Birmingham, Mich. She loved playing bridge and even wrote a book on learning to play bridge after coaching the high school bridge team. She also was a lifetime master in duplicate bridge. Jane traveled worldwide sometimes with her husband, other times with her children or friends. After retiring to Florida she continued playing bridge, along with being a member of American Association of University Women and Faith Methodist Church. She and Lew, her husband of 70 years, were members of the Key Royale Golf Club, where they enjoyed playing golf in several leagues. Jane was predeceased by her husband Lewis A Winegarden, and is survived by her twin sister Jean Elaine Hoyer, of Michigan and Arizona; a daughter Lynne L. Lampman, of Bushnell, Fla.; her son, Jonathan J. and wife Marsha, of Bloomfield, Mich. and Cortez, Fla; and son Robert L., of Garner, N.C.; six grandchildren; and 10 great grandchildren. A celebration of Janeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s life was held

on Saturday, April 11, at the Faith United Methodist Church 7215 First Ave. W., Bradenton, Fl 34209 In lieu of flowers donations can be made to TideWell Hospice 5955 Rand Blvd., Sarasota, FL 34238. Covell Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

Kay King Anderson Kay King Anderson, 61, Anna Maria, Florida, passed away April 11, 2015. Kay was born on Dec. 24, 1953, in Havre de Grace, Md., to the late Lyle E. and Emmalena (Atteberry) King. She worked as tax account in Illinois. Kay moved to Florida in 2004 coming from Freeport, Ill. where she and her husband first settled in Ft. Myers until 2007, when they moved to Anna Maria. While living in Anna Maria, she volunteered with the Roser Memorial Church Food Pantry She is survived by her loving husband of 21 years, Barry Anderson, of Anna Maria, Florida, brother, Scott and his wife Kathy King, of Freeport, Ill., and many extended family members and friends. There will be no local services. Visitation and services will be held in Freeport, Ill., under the direction of the Burke-Tubbs Funeral Home. The family requests that in lieu of flowers memorial donations be made to the Roser Memorial Church Food Pantry in Kayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s memory. Condolences for the family may be made online at www.shannonfuneralhomes.com.


www.amisun.com

APRIL 15, 2015

TOWN CRIER Fun planned for Garden Club The last meeting of the season for the Anna Maria Garden Club will be held at noon on Wednesday, April 15 at Roser Church, 512 Pine Avenue, Anna Maria. The program will feature the installation of officers for the 2014-2015 year. President, Zan Fuller; Vice President, Dusty Crane; Treasurer, Rita Allan; Recording Secretary. Susan Cheshire and Corresponding Secretary, Anne Ricci. This will be followed by “High Tea,” chaired by Priscilla Seewald and her committee. Members and guests are requested to dress appropriately. The Gifts Committee recently awarded grants to: Annie Silver Community Center, Cortez Maritime Museum, Holmes Beach Parks and Beautification, Friends of Ft. DeSoto National Park and the Anna Maria Environmental Education and Enhancement Committee. A donation was also made to Anna Maria Elementary School in memory of Barbara Callaghan. The club meetings will resume on Wednesday, Oct. 21.

CC honors volunteers

Nutrition talk at Annie Silver

Community Connection, the group that connects residents concerned about rentals in residential neighborhoods, meets this Wednesday at 2 p.m. in the Soiree Room at the Anna Maria Island Community Center. The group will be honoring all Center volunteers, and members and potential members are invited.

Health coach Alex Grae will serve an array of vegan and vegetarian dishes and lead a discussion about disease and chronic illness on Sunday, April 19, at 6 p.m., at the Annie Silver Community Center, 103 23rd Street N., Bradenton Beach. A $10 donation is requested, and proceeds will benefit the local community. To reserve a spot, call 779-0556.

Conservation walk on AMI

Library seeks writers, artists

Join The Manatee-Sarasota Sierra Club on Saturday, April 18, from 5 to 6:15 p.m., for an outing that will be followed by an exploratory walk on south Anna Maria Island. The walking distance will be less than a mile. Enjoy a potluck supper while visiting with new and experienced walkers. At approximately 7:30, the group will walk along the beach to enjoy the sunset and the new moon. Bring a potluck dish that serves eight, your drink of choice, plates and silverware, a flashlight, insect repellent and closed shoes are recommended. The donation fee is $5. To reserve your place call Mary Sheppard at 7523200 by Thursday April 16.

The Manatee County Library System is publishing a new online literary and arts journal called “805.” The editors of the bi-monthly publication are seeking short stories, flash fiction, essays, poems and art. Writers and artists can submit their work and learn more at www.805lit.org.

Social bridge at Roser Enjoy social bridge every Monday at noon at the Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave, Anna Maria. For more information call 941-778-0414 or just show up and join the group

Conservation meeting set The Sierra Club’s Manatee Conserva-

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tion Committee will meet on Monday, April 20, from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. in the Women’s Resource Center meeting room, 1926 Manatee Avenue West, Bradenton. Join in and help contribute to sound environmental policy in Manatee County. Contact Sandra Ripberger at 941-794-3878 or sandrarip@yahoo. com. for more information.

Play bridge at Annunciation Enjoy duplicate bridge every Tuesday at 12:30 p.m. at the Church of the Annunciation, 4408 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. For more information call 8965154.

SHINE Program needs volunteers The Florida Department of Elder Affairs and the West Central Florida Area Agency on Aging need volunteers to join the award-winning SHINE team that helps the elderly make decisions on Medicare, health insurance and prescription drug plans. Volunteers also make educational presentations to community groups and participate in local health fairs, senior fairs and other outreach and educational events. To volunteer, call the Elder Helpline at 1-813-740-3888, ext. 5593.


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APRIL 15, 2015

recall: Election date set FROM PAGE 1

wish to vote by mail, but are not yet signed up to do so, mail ballots can be requested from the Manatee County Supervisor of Elections Office at www.votemanatee.com or by calling 941-741-3823.

High stakes

The stakes are high for both Shearon and Clarke because one of them will not be in office by the end of May. City Attorney Ricinda Perry, Supervisor of Elections Mike Bennett and Assistant Supervisor Scott Farrington met last week and concluded that according to Florida election law, Clarke has to resign from his current commission seat in order to run as a candidate to replace Shearon. Clarke submitted his letter of resignation to acting City Clerk Terri Sanclemente on Friday. He will continue to serve as a commissioner until the election takes place. His letter states that his resignation will take effect no later than the date he takes office as the next mayor of Bradenton Beach, or the date the successor to his Ward 1 commission seat takes office. “It has been a privilege and pleasure to serve the citizens of Bradenton Beach as commissioner and vice mayor,” his letter said. If Shearon retains the

mayor’s seat, the commission will appoint a new Ward 1 representative to serve the remainder of Clarke’s term, which could alter the commission majority in regard to voting tendencies. If city voters remove Shearon from office, and Clarke is elected his successor, Clarke will serve as mayor until November, and the commission will appoint a Ward 1 representative to fill Clarke’s vacated commission seat until the fall election.

Chair’s comments

The recall election was ordered by Circuit Court Judge Andrew Owens on Wednesday, April 9, following two successful recall petition drives headed by former City Commissioner Pete Barreda, who serves as chair of the Committee to Recall William Shearon. Barreda recently discussed the recall effort and the reasons behind it. “We obviously had the numbers, and people have said twice they want this election, so we’re moving forward and we’ll see what happens,” he said. According to the elections office, there are currently 763 registered voters living in Bradenton Beach. When Shearon was elected in 2013, he received 149 votes; his

Recall town hall events scheduled

joe hendricks | sun

From left, Vice Mayor Jack Clarke and Mayor Bill Shearon have squared off many times during commission meetings, and they will now do so in a special recall election. opponent, incumbent Mayor John Shaughnessy, received 132. “The mayor said, ‘Bring it on.’ We had 130 people sign petitions, and there were more people who did not sign, but were not against the recall,” Barreda said. Barreda noted that city employees, business owners and other public figures were among those who support the recall, but were reluctant to sign a petition form Shearon would eventually see.

Why the recall?

Barreda said the efforts to remove Shearon extend beyond the two alleged Sunshine violations listed on the recall petitions. “This was based on the Sunshine violations, the lawsuits against the city, and because for a long time it seemed

like everyone was constantly in the news for all the stuff that was happening at city hall. I think it’s time to get somebody in there who will bring back some normalcy to city hall,” Barreda explained. “The majority of the people I talked to in this town were not against the recall, and lot of those people mentioned the same things: the constant bickering and suing, and people wanting city hall run without all the headlines,” he added. Barreda said declining morale among city staff was another contributing factor. “I think we have a great staff that works for our city, including the police force and the office staff. Some of them have done a great job for a long time, and I sure would hate to lose them,” he concluded.

ordinance: Vacation rentals FROM PAGE 1

said after the vote rental agents still opposed the limitation of eight guests for a home and the penalties against rental agents for too many problems. Those penalties could take away an agent’s permission to rent homes in the city for up to two years. More than 35 people packed city hall for the second hearing of the ordinance, which was City Attorney Becky Voss’ first rewrite of the ordinance with recommendations from the city commission. The ordinance would not place restrictions on pool hours and noise limits on the rentals in the residential/office/retail district along Pine Avenue. As for the pool restrictions, the new law would have allowed pool use from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., however, Mayor Dan Murphy said he felt his grandkids having to wait until 10 a.m. to swim would be “onerous.” Commissioner Doug Copeland agreed. “With this law in effect, you could legally operate a chainsaw before your kids could

swim,” he said. Commissioner Nancy Yetter suggested moving it up to 9 a.m., but Copeland liked 8 a.m. and by consensus, the commission agreed with 8 a.m. Yetter said the commission is there working on the ordinance because of greed. “Over the holiday weekend, one home had three noise violations, and the agent said to cut them some slack, they don’t know the rules,” she said. “Why? Because the agent didn’t tell them the rules.” She also said developer Shawn Kaleta put renters in a newly built home without a certificate of occupancy. “He is constantly testing the city,” she said. “The renters were evicted. If I were them. I would sue him. This is why we need this ordinance because we have to have them follow the rules.” “We’re not trying to be bad people; we’re just trying to protect our neighborhoods,” added Commissioner Dale Woodland. “I talked with some renters, and they said

it was nice they only had to have one inflatable bed,” said Commissioner Carol Carter. “They had 15 people.” During public comment, Pine Avenue Restoration developer Micheal Coleman said the big problem he sees is parking. “The more parking you allow, the more people come in here,” he said. Resident Allen Ward said the Island is changing, and the real estate market is being maximized. “I wanted to live here the rest of my life but now, I don’t know,” he said. Former city commissioner Gene Aubry said he has never seen a city deteriorate as badly as Anna Maria the past year. After more discussion, Woodland moved to approve the ordinance, and Carter seconded. The vote was unanimous to pass it. Murphy said they would discuss whether to end the moratorium on permits for homes with more than three bedrooms at a future meeting.

Prior to the recall election that will take place in Bradenton Beach on Tuesday, May 19, the Committee to Recall William Shearon will host a series of town hall-like meetings featuring committee members and invited speakers answering questions regarding the recall process. The first event will take place at the Sandpiper Resort Co-Op Clubhouse, 2601 Gulf Dr. N. on Thursday, April 16, at 6:30 p.m. A second event will take place at 6:30 p.m., on Tuesday, April 28, at the West Manatee Fire and Rescue Volunteers Inc. Hall, 201 Second St. N., adjacent to the old firehouse and east of city hall and the Tingley Memorial Library. Further events will be announced when finalized. Questions can also be addressed to the recall committee at RecallShearon@gmail.com.

Energy assistance available Manatee County is accepting applications for the Emergency Home Energy Assistance for the Elderly grant which offers financial help to residents ages 60 and older who have an economic hardship. The county may approve up to $600 in assistance for a household twice a year. Assistance is available to a household once during the cooling season, now through Sept. 30, and again during the heating season, Oct. 1 to March 31. The program is available to Florida Power & Light and Peace River Electric Cooperative customers. To be eligible for assistance, applicants must: • Be part of a household with at least one person age 60 or older in the home; • Have a documented heating or cooling emergency (a past due amount on your bill; a final notice of disconnection has been issued or your electric has been turned off); • Earn a gross household annual income equal to or less than 150 percent of the federal poverty guidelines. That means a one-person household could have an income of $17,655 or less to be eligible. A two-person home must show an income of less than $23,895. For more information, call 941748-4501.


APRIL 15, 2015

FUN IN THE SUN

Across 1 Request an ID from 5 Classic milk flavoring 10 Degs. for choreographers 14 Yours, to Yves 15 One making a leaf pile 16 Wild speech 17 Key collection of records 19 Command to Fido 20 Trophy 21 Slyly suggest 23 Religious offense 24 Common "terrible twos" responses 26 Quiet time 27 Canadian crooner with four Grammys 32 Came out with 35 Protein-rich beans 36 Sushi fish 37 Scratching post users 38 Peeper

Answers to 04-08-15 Crossword Puzzle.

39 "Divergent" heroine __ Prior 40 Uplifting wear 41 Oil magnate Halliburton 43 Feared African fly 45 Telltale white line 48 Home to Sean O'Casey 49 Take to court 50 Buzzy body 53 Aspiring rock star's submissions 57 Mineral used in water softening 59 Dr. Seuss' "If __ the Circus" 60 Not even close to an agreement ... or, literally, what 17-, 27- and 45-Across have in common 62 Like some beers 63 Visually teasing genre 64 Continuously 65 Creepy look

THE SUN

66 Smallville family 67 Zilch Down 1 Tent sites 2 Centipede video game creator 3 Pitcher's gripping aid 4 Ding-a-ling 5 "Close the window!" 6 Like a boor 7 Crispy fried chicken part 8 Cartoon collectibles 9 "No Spin Zone" newsman 10 Enterprise helmsman, to Kirk 11 "Hey hey hey!" toon 12 Gross subj.? 13 38-Across sore 18 Counting word in a rhyme 22 Well-worn pencils 25 Med. condition with repetitive behavior 27 Conservatory subj. 28 So far 29 Fair-hiring initials 30 Flowery rings 31 Ultimatum ender 32 Long-range nuke 33 Rani's wrap 34 Deadlock 38 Aboveground trains 39 Golf gadget 41 Exude 42 Go wild 43 Ft. Worth campus

44 Queen of __: noted visitor of King Solomon 46 Copenhagen coins 47 State as fact 50 Cry to a prima donna

51 Dog-__: folded at the corner 52 Spare 53 Pickle herb 54 Albany-to-Buffalo canal

55 Water carrier 56 Spirited style 58 Major tennis event 61 MD and ME, e.g.

43


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classified

ANNOUNCEMENTS

BOATS: PARTS & SERVICES & SALES

BEACH YOGA ON Saturdays & Sundays at 8:30am at the end of Pine Ave by the Sandbar Restaurant by donation. www. thriveyogafit.com VOLUNTEERS NEEDED at AMICC. Help your community by giving of yourself. Various positions available. Call Sandee 941-778-1908 ext 0

BOATS, BOATS, BOATS. Season’s Still Booming- I’m Talking BUSY. Islandboatsales.net We Also Buy Boats. 941-228-3489 BOAT SLIPS FOR RENT. Up to 60 feet. Two minutes to Intracoastal Waterway by Cortez, Parrot Cove Marina 941-795-0088

THE BEST VOLUNTEER position on the island. The AMI Historical Museum needs docents and bread makers. Call Dusty at 941779-7688.

FOR RENT 50' BOAT DOCK on wide deep water canal, many amenities. Call BJ 941-778-3013 26' BAYLINER weekender/ fisherman. Merc V8 $8900. 22’ Redkin walk around cuddy cabin $6500 See on Island Call 941-356-1456

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).

1969 BOSTON WHALER 75HP Force Motor. Trailer all safety equipment included. $2250. Runs good. Call 215-378-7871

CARPET CLEANING

OUR DAILY BREAD of Bradenton is looking for volunteer servers 9amnoon. Ask for Penny 941745-2992

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

STRUGGLING WITH DRUGS or Alcohol? Addicted to Pills? Talk to someone who cares. Call The Addiction Hope & Help Line for a free assessment. 855-995-3142

CLEANING SERVICE

AUCTIONS

C & T HOUSEKEEPING. For all your cleaning needs. Free Estimates. Reasonable rates. Senior discount. References available. Call 941-9622512

PUBLIC AUCTION DOMITAL Corp. April 21st at 10am 8850 NW 18th Ter. Doral, FL 33172 Telecomm Infrastructure Products/Components, High-capacity Broadband Equip., Construction Materials, Vehicles, Trailers, Forklift, Warehouse Items, Office Furniture/Equip. & more! Www.moeckerauctions.com Preview: 04/20 • 10am-3pm15%-18%BP 800-840-BIDS Subj to confirm. AB-1098 AU-3219, Eric Rubin

CLEANING: RESIDENTIAL, COMMERCIAL & RENTALS. "Have it done your way, we care about our work" Call 941-7564570 PRESSURE WASHING AND WINDOWS residential, commercial & resorts. Roofs, buildings, houses, driveways etc. Call 941-251-5948

BABY SITTER BABY SITTER. Honor student with own transportation. Experienced, References available. Call or text Amanda at 941-713-3219 RED CROSS CERTIFIED baby sitter. Honor student. Call or text Isabel 941-5457995

Call us today! 941-778-3986

COMMERCIAL SALES/ LEASES/RENTALS

ANNA MARIA CITY Gulf Drive Frontage Commercial 2 Lots 104x120 Real Estate only $1,200,000. Call Alan Galletto Island Real Estate 941-232-2216

RESTAURANT/OFFICE/ RETAIL 1113 sf Kitchen Equipment include Gulf Drive Bradenton Beach $495,000 Call Alan Galletto Island Real Estate 941-232-2216 BAR/RESTURANT 2100 ft2 with lease, includes Liquor License, Furniture and Good Will $599,000 CALL ALAN GALLETTO Island Real Estate 941-232-2216

COMPUTER SERVICES

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

EMPLOYMENT PART-TIME POSITION AVAILABLE at Gift Shop on Anna Maria Island. Retirees welcome. Inquire at 813-409-7540 HELP WANTED STYLIST, NAIL TECHNICIAN. Current License required. Flexible hours. Small shop on Island. Call Owner 941538-0225 SALES ASSISTANT PART-TIME Busy office, strong communications skills, computer skills. Need to be flexible. Send Resume to PO Box 1394, Anna Maria FL 34216 CITY OF ANNA MARIA CODE ENFORCEMENT MANAGER FT Code Enforcement Manager performing duties related to interpreting adopted codes, related rules and regulations to reach compliance. Supervisory experience preferred. May require working nights, holidays, and weekends. Must possess valid FL driver’s license and Minimum FACE Level 1 Certification. Salaried Position. Salary Range: $40,000-$59,000. Full job description and application are on the City website: www.cityofannamaria. com. Send application, cover letter and resume to: amclerk@cityofannamaria. com or send to: City Clerk, City of Anna Maria, P.O. Box 779, Anna Maria, FL 34216. Deadline: April 27, 2015, 4pm.

APRIL 15, 2015

NEED FRONT DESK & HOUSEKEEPING. Must be outgoing & energetic Able to climb stairs, some lifting. Full Time/ Part Time available. Apply at 2502 North Gulf Drive, Bradenton Beach TWO HOTELS on ANNA MARIA Island seeking Part Time front desk associate and Part Time Housekeeper. Front Desk Days and hours are 9am to 5pm Fri, Sat, Sun, Mon. Housekeeping days and hours vary, usually 9am to 2pm or 3pm. Please email info@ palmtreevillas.com to apply or with any questions. VACATION RENTAL OFFICE looking for experienced Maintenance Man to grow and expand Maintenance Dept. Please call 941-7784442 TEAM PLAYERS NEEDED Busy AMI Deli has 2 parttime deli clerk positions available. Great opportunity to work 10-15 hours a week for some extra spending money. Must be flexible and have good "People Skills". Apply in person at Jessie's Island Store, 5424 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach and ask for April or Jimmy B.A.H. EXPRESS HIRING Regional-OTR Class A drivers. Great pay and benefits, paid vacation and holidays. Home weekly. 12 months experience. Apply at www. bahexpress.com. 800-8526641 ext. 111 CLASS A DRIVERS WANTED home every weekend dedicated southeast runs walk away lease purchase no money down! Or paid every mile plus benefits www.sheltontrucking.com 800-877-3201 WELDING CAREERS - Hands on training for career opportunities in aviation, automotive, manufacturing and more. Financial aid for qualified students. Job placement assistance. Call AIM 877-206-4006 AVIATION GRADS WORK with JetBlue, Boeing, Delta and others- start here with hands on training for FAA certification. Financial aid if qualified. Call Aviation Institute of Maintenance 866-314-5838

ESTATE SALE ESTATE SALE THURSDAY April 16. 9:30-3. 313 Hardin Ave, Anna Maria 34216 (please park on one side) Beautiful furnished, includes Dining room table & chairs, TV cabinet, bar stools, hutch, Rattan: Table chairs, tea cart, computer desk, pair of Lexington chairs, Queen bed set. Rattan/wicker coffee & end table, bookcase, Lea and Wicker twin bed sets, painted bench, wicker indoor/outdoor furniture includes sofa, 2 arm chairs & ottoman, coffee & end tables from Pamaro Shop. Prints, decorator accessories. Yard sculptor, patio furniture, keyboard, craftsman tool chest/tools, dolly, ladder, bike, golf clubs, kitchen ware, linens & more. A nice Sale! Sale conducted by Palma Sola Sales. Numbers given out at 8am

FOR SALE DISH TV Starting at $19.99/ month (for 12 mos.) Save! Regular Price $34.99 Call Today and Ask About free same day Installation! Call Now! 888-986-4858

GARAGE, MOVING, RUMMAGE & YARD SALES SALE NIKI’S GIFT & ANTIQUE SHOP. 5351 Gulf Dr, Holmes Beach. All Sterling & Gold jewelry 20% to 60% off. Ashley Sun Glasses Regular $140 now $80. Select Gifts, furniture, miniatures, glassware, BricBrac 30% to 80% off. Great Buys! Open 7 days a week 9:30-5. ROSER THRIFT SHOP Open 9:30am - 2 pm Tuesday, Thursday, Friday. 10 am -1 pm Saturday Annex open same days. Donations accepted Wednesday 9 am. – 11am 511 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Call 941-779-2733 FLEA MARKET RADERS Reef parking lot. Sunday, April 19. 8am-4pm 5508 Marina Dr. Antiques, collectibles, jewelry, furniture, misc. items .

HOME IMPROVEMENTS

FURNITURE

TILE! TILE! TILE! All variations of tile supplied and installed. Quality workmanship. Prompt, reliable, many Island references. Free estimates. Neil 941-726-3077

CUSTOM COASTAL FURNITURE & CABINETS by Frankie Z. ebay store. Call 941-726-1482. 10015 Cortez Rd (corner of 101st) frankiezaff@yahoo.com

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

MOVING SALE/MUST SALE Tommy Bahama style bedroom suite (queen set), dresser, night stand, chest of drawers $350 OBO. Hooker Executive Desk with top shelf unit. Will sacrifice $350 OBO. Tommy Bahama entertainment center & unit with glass shelf’s $150 each OBO. Will text photos. Call 407-4489785

KERN CONSTRUCTION NEW Homes & Remodel. Design/Build. Since 1968. State License # CRC1327296. Call Jerry Kern 941-504-2222 www. kernconstructioninc.com

WICKER ENTERTAINMENT CENTER and King Headboard $50. Trundle Bed $75, Bunk Beds $75. All good condition on AMI. Call 612-414-4654

SOUTHWEST 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. “HONEY DO" HOME Repairs & Handyman Services. 35 yrs experience. Painting, drywall, tile, woodwork. All tasks. Call 941-896-5256 or 941-807-5256 www.honey dohomerepairinc.com


APRIL 15, 2015

classified

HOME SERVICES HANDYMAN FOR HIRE. Worked all trades, no job to small. Satisfaction guaranteed. Free estimates. Call Arthur 941-518-8658 HEADED BACK HOME? I'll keep an eye on your seasonal home until you return. Weekly Security inspections. Email or text reports after each visit. Scott Ricci 941-6858999 amihomecheck@ aol.com DRAIN CLEANING James VanFossen A.K.A. “RIP” Call 941-301-6077

KAYAK/ PADDLE BOARD RENTAL ROGO SPECIAL: RENT ONE Single Yak / Paddle Board: $45. Day / $150. Week - Get One Free! Free delivery & pickup on island. Fun Yaks: 918-639-5002.

LANDSCAPING & LAWN CARE

STRAIGHT SHOT LANDSCAPING. Save water, gas, maintenance fees and the environment! Shell your yard. $50/yd installed. Call Shark Mark 941-301-6067 R. GAROFALO’S Interlocking brick pavers, driveways, patios, pool decks. Free estimates. Licensed & Insured. Call Rafael 941-778-4823 or Veronik 941-526-7941 ELI’S IRRIGATION New install/repair. Pumps, pools, irrigation, landscape lighting and pressure washing. Call 941-580-2054 SHELL DELIVERED AND spread $50/yd. Hauling all kinds of gravel, mulch, top soil with free estimates. Call Larry at 941-795-7775, "shell phone" 941-720-0770

LOCKSMITH ISLAND LOCKSMITH, “Lock Around the Clock”. Licensed/bonded/insured. Call 941-778-1661 or 941713-4414

LOST & FOUND FOUND PRESCRIPTION ITALIAN sunglasses in water on Saturday, April 4. Call 813-679-9662

Call us today! 941-778-3986

LOST FAMILY HEIRLOOM during Wedding at Sandbar Restaurant on Sunday March 29. Gold wedding band with Diamond pendant near high water mark. Please contact 407-7609033 LOST BLUE ZIPPER Case with keys, flashlight attached to wristband. Near 84th/83rd & Marina Dr. Holmes Beach Call 941313-0528 SAILBOAT CAPSIZED ON SATURDAY March 7, near 845 North Shore Drive, Anna Maria Island. Lost: sail, dry bags, orange box, clothing and other misc. gear. Call Fred at 727-6671816 PLESE RETURN THE URN taken on February 17 near the mailbox of 503 69th St, Holmes Beach. We did not realize that items placed on street were fair game on Garbage day. We were moving in on that day. Please call Jim 443-4213381 LOST: GLASSES (PRESCRIPTION). Lost on running route: 64th St. to beach, to White Ave, 83rd St., Marina Dr. Please call 248-7655207 LOST PANDORA BRACELET many charms. Great sentimental value. Call 518-365-2702 MISSING 18 INCH GOLD chain with diamond drop, sterling silver seed bracelet , location Blue Water Beach Club between 9/12 & 9/13/2013 heartbroken was gift from husband 45 years ago REWARD please call 863-668-8566 no questions asked

MASSAGE MASSAGE ON THE BEACH in a tiki hut. Also indoors on historic Bridge Street and outcalls. 941-779-6836 www.sea-renityspa.com #MA55034

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!

THE SUN

PAINTING & WALLCOVERING

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

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

AMI VALET LLC Professional parking services. Restaurants, weddings, any & all special events. Insured & Licensed. Years of experience. Call 941-565-0137 AMIValet@gmail.com

“WIZARD OF WALLS” Established 1980 Prompt quality service. Paperhanging/removal Faux finishes. Interior painting. Mary Bell 941794-0455 WALY PRECISION PAINTING custom painting, pressure washing, commercial/residential, interior/exterior, drywall/stucco, Licensed & insured. Call 941-448-1928 or 941-580-4005 www. WalyPrecisionPainting.com

PERSONAL SERVICES SMALL ODD JOBS, yard work, walk dog etc. Call George 941-773-5518 THE TINT GUY." Commercial, residential, automotive, marine. Free estimates. All work guaranteed. Over 25 years experience. Mobile service available. Call 941201-2649

PET SITTING/ HOUSE SITTING ANNA & LINDSAY’S Dog Walking. $5 per dog walked, $10 Dog wash. $20 for both plus play time. Contact 917-406-9554. Anna Maria Island Only.

PHOTOGRAPHY NEW AERIAL AMI PHOTOS. PhotosFromTheAir.com. email: photosfromtheair@gmail.com or Call 941-773-9834

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

AT YOUR SERVICE Personal & Professional assistant. Great rates. References available "Let me do what you are unwilling or unable to do." Call Cindy 941-812-2238 zicker8@aol.com

REAL ESTATE HOMES & CONDOS FOR SALE SPACIOUS 3BR/3BA Condominium rarely available in wonderful bay front complex with pool and tennis courts. Tastefully renovated to include newly tiled kitchen & family room with a peak of the bay and a split bedroom plan. Centrally located in Holmes Beach, with a short walk to shops. Ground-floor unit with covered parking and private storage. Family oriented and pet friendly. Offered at $450,000. Call Green Real Estate @ 941778-0455 BRING YOUR BOAT! Canal villa with no bridges to ICW. Renovated 2BR/2BA villa w/carport, in gated community. 23 foot dock. Open plan, Update kitchen & baths. $249,900 Katharine Pepper, RoseBay International 941-755-2100 or 941-792-9459 HARBOUR ISLE HOME$40,000 in upgrades! Beautiful! REDUCED to $549,000. Perico Bay Club Villa- Very well maintained! $229,000. Call Kathleen today! 941-773-0165 Island Real Estate BEST PRICED CONDO on Island. 3BR/3BA 2 car garage. Only $285,000! Offers weekly rentals. Karen Day Fineout, Wagner Realty 941-518-3682

AFFORDABLE ISLAND GETA-WAY. 1BR/1BA. Updated $57,500. Steps to beach. Real Estate Mart 941-7139835 or 941-756-1090

FOR SALE by OWNER 1BR/1BA in historic Sandpiper co-op resort with bay view, boat docks, beach completely new inside and out. Call 941-224-1652 for more details CANAL FRONT HOME 3BR/2BA/2CG Pool & Spa, boat dock. Short Sale $450,000 Cash Buyers Only. Owner/Realtor Call 941-228-8552 PANARAMIC INTRACOASTAL VIEW. Great rental history. 4BR/5BA heated pool, boat dock. Nicely Furnished $1,300,000 Realtor 941-356-1456 or 941-7139835 LOWEST PRICED WATERFRONT home on AMI. 2BR/2BA Sea Side Gardens Villa. Must see view! 33 Sea Side Court. captnse@ gmail.com or call 970-8467394 HOLMES BEACH TOWNHOUSE, 2BR/2.5 BA, Recently remodeled, furnished condo, quiet mid-island complex w/pool, short walk to beach. Large kitchen, granite, stainless steel; quartz in baths. Two master suites, 19 x 12 screened porch, plantation shutters, crown mouldings. Tasteful upscale furniture & interior design. Two car garage + 23 x 10 storage room. $515,000. Call 941-7052268. AFFORDABLE 2BR/2BA CARPORT & porch in Trailer Estates land owned. Located in North Shore Sarasota Bay. 8 miles to Gulf Beaches. Amenities: pool, club house, marina. Hobbies & activities $79,000 Realtor Call 941-756-1090 4BR/3BA HOUSE on 71.5 acres with 18 stall horse barn in Parrish, Florida. Call Steve Georgie 941-321-6253 at Keller Williams Realty

REAL ESTATE: LOTS FOR SALE GORGEOUS LOT (14,160 Sq. Ft) (80 X 177) Located at 1107 Palma Sola Blvd. Stunning views of Palma Sola Bay with great potential for new construction. For more details contact Gregg Bayer at AMI Beaches Real Estate 941-799-9096

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LAKEFRONT WEST BRADENTON. No deed restrictions. No flood zone. 7 miles to beach $37,500 or will build to suit. Call 941356-1456

REAL ESTATE: OPEN HOUSE OPEN SUNDAY, APRIL 19. 1-4PM 6250 Holmes Blvd #31 Holmes Beach. Info 941-705-2268

RENTALS: ANNUAL 2BR/2BA home, 55 + community, 1,600 s/f water & trash incl. w/d, community pool & shuffle board, Golf privileges available. Big yard, canal view, tile & carpet, Newly renovated throughout . 1 car garage, close to shopping & restaurants. Available immediately East Bradenton $1,600/ mo. 1st, last & security. 2BR/2BA home 1650 s/f lawn care incl. w/d , tile & wood , 1 carport, 1st, last $1,350/mo, $1000 sec dep. Available immediately. NO PETS AT THIS PROPERTY Near St. Stevens. Pinebrook Condo 2BR/2BA 1500 s/f golf course frontage beautiful condo w/ den, Wood floors, splendid granite kitchen, vaulted ceilings great views, carport. $1,500/mo, first, last & security. Credit & background required on all applicants over 18. 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 kate@ islandreal.com – 941-3451295 - Island Real Estate of Anna Maria Island, Inc. ANNUAL RENTALS: 3BR Townhouse in Palma Sola Trace. 1 car garage, heated community pool. Brand new! $1700/mo. First, Last, Security. Contact kate@islandreal.com or 941-345-1295. Island Real Estate. ANNUAL RENTAL 2BR/1BA carport. Single Family Home. Upgraded SCF College Area. $900/mo Realtor 941-356-1456


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classified

RENTALS: ANNUAL ANNUAL RENTALS WEST BRADENTON: 2BR/2BA house with large yard 3803 15th Ave W $1300/ mo. 3BR/2BA/2CG Duplex $1300/mo. First & 1 month Security deposit. Credit check required. Call 941809-2488 ANNUAL RENTAL HOLMES BEACH Small 1BR efficiency. Available May 1 $850/ mo First & 1 month security. Credit Check required. Call 941-809-2488 RENTAL IN BEAUTIFUL Waterfront Cortez Park (just across Cortez Bridge). Call for personal tour. 6 month minimum. Call 740-398-9846 or 740-507-5606 ANNUAL HOLMES BEACH Furnished Efficiency Apt. includes screened porch, 2 blocks from beach. $650/ mo includes utilities. No pets Call 941-778-3734

Call us today! 941-778-3986

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-$750/ wk Redekercondos.com 941-778-1915 WILLKOMMEN AUF AMI! Besuchen Sie Island Real Estate in einem unserer Inselbüros (6101 Marina Drive oder 419 Pine Ave) mit unserem deutschsprachigen Reservierungsservice und erhalten ein freies Island Real Estate Baseball Cap! Wir geben Ihnen gerne mehr Auskunft über unsere 250 ausgewählte Feriendomizile für Ihren nächsten Urlaub!

AMI-WHY RENT SEASONALLY when you can rent your Beach Get-A-Way ANNUALLLY for a comparable amount? Call 860-9223857 for info. 2BR/2BA COZY COTTAGE tastefully furnished, close to the beach, tennis courts and boat ramp in Holmes Beach. Call 941-778-2919 ISLAND ART STUDIO Summer Sublet: quiet, private studio in AMI League building. Added plus: neat the beach. Up to 6 month sublet $175/ mo. Inquiries: Call 941778-5176 2BR/2BA HOLMES BEACH furnished block to beach. Dishwasher, microwave, washer/ dryer. POOL, central A/C, lanai. $1100/mo plus utilities. June 1 thru Jan 2, 2016 Call 847-7696175

APRIL 15, 2015

RENTAL WANTED

TRANSPORTATION

PROFESSIONAL COUPLE SEEKS Annual Rental. 2 or 3 Bedrooms near Key Royale. Call 410-782-9100

AMI TAXI metered-on-callcards accepted. Airport services: Tampa $85, Sarasota $35, Clearwater $75, Fort Meyers $150, Orlando $150. Call 800-301-4816. amitaxi4u@gmail.com, www.amitaxi.com

REAL ESTATE: OUT OF AREA NORTH CAROLINA MOUNTAIN Land for sale: a rare find - gently sloping mountain land, 3 1/2 plus acres with building lot, electric, water and septic installed. Storage bldg, apple trees facing south. Near Cashiers and Lake Glenville. $75,000. Call 941-778-5966.

ROOFING METAL ROOFING SPECIALIST. Call Now for a Free Estimate! Fully Licensed, Bonded & Insured. CCC 04287 866-998-3324

TOWN CAR SERVICES, All airports served. Local and Long distance services available. Call Glen 941225-0072


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APRIL 15, 2015

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

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APRIL 15, 2015


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