FREE
VOL 16 No. 11
January 13, 2016
County: Renourishment money at risk Parking ban could affect renourishment funding. BY PAT COPELAND SUN STAFF WRITER | pcopeland@amisun.com
HOLMES BEACH – City officials received a stern warning from Manatee County regarding implementing any parking restrictions that could jeopardize beach renourishment funding. At press time, the City Commission is slated to vote on an ordinance that would establish a parking program
in a test area where parking on the rights of way would be banned, except for residents with permits. At the last discussion on the ordinance in December, Mayor Bob Johnson vowed to veto it if it is approved. In a unanimous vote, Manatee County Commissioners asked County Administrator Ed Hunzeker to write a letter to city officials. In the Jan. 7 letter to Johnson, Hunzeker said, “While such actions are clearly authorized by your local ordinances, please be aware that any such actions which have the
effect of reducing public access to federal and state funded renourished Gulffront beaches within the city limits may have direct and immediate consequences upon state and federal cost shares provided to Manatee County for the 2014 renourishment project and any future renourishment projects.”
Agreements spell out rules
According to a funding assistance agreement between the county, as the see parking, page 33
sun file photo
Anna Maria Island’s number one tourist attraction – its beaches – must be replenished with new sand to combat erosion, as they were in this 2015 project. County officials say the money to pay for that renourishment could be at risk if Holmes Beach officials enact a parking ban now being considered.
Manatees headed off endangered list BY CINDY LANE SUN STAFF WRITER | clane@amisun.com
Manatees are one step closer to being reclassified from endangered to threatened status, an indication the species is no longer in danger of extinction, according to federal wildlife officials. Protected as endangered since 1967 under the Endangered Species Act (ESA), the West Indian manatee,
including its subspecies, the Florida manatee, “no longer meets the Act's definition of endangered and should be reclassified as threatened,” according to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). The ESA defines an endangered species as being “in danger of extinction throughout all or a significant portion of its range,” while a threatened species is “likely to be-
come an endangered species within the foreseeable future throughout all or a significant portion of its range.” An increased population count and the success of efforts to conserve the marine mammal, also known as the sea cow, were cited at a press conference last week as the primary reasons for the reclassification. see manatees, page 24
8,000
Manatee Counts in Florida
7,000 6,000 5,000 4,000 3,000 2,000 1,000 0
Source: Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission
INSIDE NEWS OPINION Sun survey outdoors town crier real estate police reports classifieds
4 6 7 20-21 26 30-35 36 37-39
to vote for your favorites in the 2016 Readers’ Choice Contest. 15-16 It’s time
Anna Maria Island, Florida
shark fishing TO BE
DISCUSSED THURSDAY NIGHT. 4
The county prevails in the Long Bar Pointe development lawsuit. 12
The Island’s award-winning weekly newspaper
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Parking tickets getting automated The new ticketing and payment system is expected to produce a higher rate of return on parking fines. BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
ANNA MARIA – The issuance of parking citations and the collection of fines associated with those citations will soon become a much more automated process. Last month, the City Commission authorized Mayor Dan Murphy to enter into a contract with the New York-based Complus Data Innovations to use the company’s FastTrack ticket processing, collection and data processing services. Complus will provide the city with two Casio IT 9000 ticket writers, two software licenses, one receipt printer and a cash register drawer. The company also will process online payments by those who receive parking tickets in Anna Maria. In exchange for these services, Complus will receive 12 percent of the revenue generated by traffic tickets issued and collected using their prod-
SUBMITTED Handheld Casio ticket writers like this will soon be issuing parking citations in Anna Maria.
ucts. Complus will also charge a $3.50 per citation fee for those who elect to pay their fines online. Murphy told the commission the handheld units take a photo of the offending vehicle and the vehicle’s license plate. It then prints out a parking ticket and sends that information
to an associated data base. The Complus Website says the photo-based ticketing system helps eliminate inaccuracies associated with handwritten tickets that are ineligible or contain erroneous information. The ticket writers will be replaced every three years at no cost to the
city, but if a ticket writer is lost or damaged the city would have to pay $4,500 for a replacement. The city will still be responsible for processing any handwritten parking tickets issued and collecting the fines associated with those citations. When discussing the Complus contract with city commissioners last month, Murphy said the FastTrack system was producing a 94 percent collection rate for the municipalities that use it. He estimated the city’s current collection rate to be around 52 percent. Murphy said the Complus system would also replace the labor-intensive manual process now in place and for the most part take the city out of the parking ticket fine collection process. “My concern is there were too many loopholes in the collection of all this cash,” Murphy told the commissioners before they unanimously approved his request. Commission Chair Doug Copeland shared Murphy’s view that the FastTrack system’s anticipated rate of return would more than offset the revenue sharing percentage surrendered. “This is much more sound,” Murphy said of the automated system.
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ISLAND NEWS
in brief Where’s Amie?
Loggerhead sea turtle Amie is running silent. Satellite tagged on June 23 after nesting on Coquina Beach, she made a beeline to southwest Florida and has been swimming lazily around the region ever since. Her last position was recorded southwest of Marco Island on Dec. 15. Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring Director Suzi Fox said that Amie’s tag may be encrusted with barnacles or may have reached the end of its limited lifespan, but that she may resurface if someone spots her tag, or if she comes ashore to nest again this year.
Center offers membership discount The Center of Anna Maria Island is offering a membership discount until Jan. 15 at 9 p.m. Family memberships are $1,000, a $200 savings; adult memberships are $500, a $100 savings; and senior memberships are $350, a $70 savings.
Road report Crews continue to work on a new sidewalk and bus shelters, making drainage improvements, and installing new signing and pavement markings along Gulf Drive from 27th Street to Manatee Avenue, in Holmes Beach. Expect daytime lane closures and flagging operations from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. while crews are working.
Drainage improvements in progress Holmes Beach stormwater improvements were slated to begin Jan. 7 for the area from 77th to 67th streets east of Marina Drive. They are expected to be complete in four weeks. Oneco Concrete will replace sections of Miami curb and ribbon curb from 67th to 71st streets as necessitated by drainage improvements and install ribbon curb along the southwest edge of asphalt along 85th Street and Marina Drive between February and April.
Principal chooses counselor Anna Maria Elementary School Principal Jackie Featherston has chosen Susan Tabicman to replace Cindi Harrison, who retired during the holiday break, as guidance counselor. Tabicman has been the guidance counselor at Miller Elementary School for 20 years. She also lives on Anna Maria Island. Featherston said Tabicman will begin at AME on Friday, Jan. 15, but she might have to go between the Island school and Miller until they get a replacement for her.
Arbor Day plantings set Holmes Beach will celebrate Florida Arbor Day on Friday, Jan. 15, at 10 a.m. The Holmes Beach Parks and Beautification Advisory Board will plant a pond cypress tree donated by Keep Manatee Beautiful at the swale in front of city hall.
JANUARY 13, 2016
FWC to attend shark fishing discussion
The discussion will include proposed restrictions on launching non-motorized watercraft after dark. BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
ANNA MARIA – While Mayor Dan Murphy is on vacation, Commission Chair Doug Copeland is taking the lead on resolving tensions between a commercial stone crabber and the recreational shark fishing community. The Thursday, Jan. 14, City Commission meeting will feature commission discussion and public input on shark fishing and proposed ordinance language that could lead to seasonal restrictions on launching kayaks and other non-motorized watercraft between sunset and sunrise. The proposed ordinance language requested by Murphy and drafted by City Attorney Becky Vose was designed to prevent shark fishers from using kayaks to bring baited hooks into deeper water where commercial crab traps are located. The ordinance language was inspired by concerns voiced last month by commercial stone crabber Anthony Manali, who along with wife Joann operates Captain Anthony’s Stone Crab Store on Spring Lane, not far from where is off shore traps are located. Last week, Copeland contacted Florida Wildlife and Conservation Commission (FWC) Regional Director Thomas Graef in his efforts to broker a more peaceful relationship between crabbers and shark fishers. “This is not going to be a first reading of the ordinance,” Copeland said of the conversation that will take place at Anna Maria City Hall, 10005 Gulf Drive, during the commission meeting that will begin at 6 p.m. “This is going to be a discussion of the problem, and there will be a representative from Fish and Wildlife at the meeting,” Copeland said. He encourages anyone interested in this issue to attend the meeting and share their insights
joe hendricks | sun
Stone crabber Anthony Manali will be among those addressing the commission Thursday evening. with the commission. After speaking with Copeland last Thursday, FWC spokesperson Gary Morse said via e-mail, “The city contacted us today about their meeting and the proposed ordinance. We will attend the meeting and are working with the city on finding a solution to the stone crab trap molestation issue.” State law prohibits the molestation of commercial traps and fishing equipment, and FWC is the primary enforcement authority. State law also prohibits the harassment of anyone fishing or hunting in a legal manner. Shark fishing is legal, although there are restrictions on the number and types of sharks that can be caught and kept. Many who shark fish utilize catch and release practices. Thursday’s meeting will be the commission’s first opportunity to discuss the proposed vessel launching restrictions. In December, Manali told the commission that shark fishermen were cutting his trap lines or relocating his traps in order to provide themselves with an area to fish that does not result in their hooked sharks becoming entangled in his submerged crab trap lines. Manali said he does not patrol his half-mile string of traps at night when most shark fishing takes place, nor has he caught
anyone in the act of molesting his traps, but some of his traps have disappeared and others have been recovered onshore by Sheriff’s Office deputies and others. Manali plans to participate in Thursday’s discussion, as do shark fishing enthusiasts Briana Gagnier and Phil Gerardi. Anyone who witnesses crab trap molestation taking place is asked to call the FWC Wildlife Alert Hotline at 888-404-3922.
Anna Maria agenda preview In addition to a commission discussion on shark fishing, the Thursday, Jan. 14, Anna Maria City Commission meeting will also include a variance hearing for the Rod and Reel Motel, the final reading of ordinances pertaining to comp plan consistency, non-conforming uses and lot clearing, and discussions on a How to Do Florida filming request and an Adopt-A-Shore marine debris and litter removal agreement.
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Fire district presents annual awards Deputy Chief Brett Pollock was named Fire Officer of the Year and Jay Johnson was named Firefighter of the Year. BY PAT COPELAND SUN STAFF WRITER | pcopeland@amisun.com
BRADENTON – Fire Chief Tom Sosa welcomed everyone to the West Manatee Fire &Rescue District annual awards ceremony on Wednesday, Jan. 6 “to recognize those who serve our organization. “Our job is about helping others. Whenever the public calls, we’re there to help people in need of help. Our job is risky and dangerous, and we have to be prepared. “We are committed and dedicated, and we get the job done. These awards are very important to the men and their families.” Awards included: • Meritorious service to Ben Dillon for “working behind the scenes to help the district improve and save money.” • Meritorious Service award to Fire Marshal Jim Davis for “being the rock behind the cadet program giving the cadets a great foundation.”
Pat copeland | sun
From left, Battalion Chief Rich Losek and Fire Chief Tom Sousa show the plaque that will bear the names of Officers of the Year as Deputy Chief Brett Pollock, this year's Officer of the Year, and Fire Commission Chair Randy Cooper look on. • Rookie of the Year award to Jerrod Apple for “never missing a training opportunity, always making sure he was ready every step of the way and always looking at what needed to be done.” • Firefighter of the Year award to Jay Johnson as coordinator of the bike team, a member of the rescue swim team, a
member of the USAR team and a CPR instructor and being “heavily involved in the selection, orientation and training of reserves and cadets.” • Officer of the Year award to retiring Deputy Chief Brett Pollock for 36 years of dedicated service to the district. • Career Service awards to Lt. John
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Stump, who handles the CPR program, 20 years; Battalion Chief Richard Jasinski, who has headed up hydrants, air packs and vehicles, 25 years; retiring Administrative Assistant Mary Stephens, who has been the “glue behind the scenes,” 30 years; and Pollock, who former Fire Chief Andy Price declared “the best deputy chief in Manatee County,” 36 years. • Special award to David Bishop, last year’s chair of the fire commission. Sousa presented length of service awards – one year to Gregory Baez, Richard Davis, Ashton Jasinski, David Miller and Jacob Taylor; five years to Adam Baggett and Corry Hill; 10 years to Ben Rigney and 15 years to Davis. He presented special operations ribbons to the USAR (Urban Search and Rescue) team members Zack Benshoff, Corry Hill, Jan Johnson, Andrew Lauricella and Tyler MacDonald.
Retirement ceremony for deputy chief
The West Manatee Fire & Rescue District will hold a retirement ceremony for Deputy Chief Brett Pollock on Tuesday, Jan. 19, at 11 a.m. at the administration building, 6417 3rd Ave. W., Bradenton. The public is invited.
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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 BeinPhone: (941) 778-3986 e-mail: news@amisun.com | ads@amisun.com | classifieds@amisun.com
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JANUARY 13, 2016
EDITORIAL Wait a second ...
H
olmes Beach commissioners are considering a plan that would limit parking in a test area of the city to only those who live there. The resident-only approach is supposed to provide relief to neighborhoods that are close to the beaches and occasionally inundated with visitors seeking parking and access to the shoreline. The intentions here may be good but the consequences of the plan are not. Not only does this proposal send an exclusionary message to the rest of the world, but now we learn that it could put our greatest asset - our beaches in jeopardy. In a letter to city officials received last week, Manatee County Administrator Ed Hunzeker warned that limiting access to the Island's renourished beaches could put federal and state funding for future renourishment projects at risk. "..... any such actions which have the effect of reducing public access to federal and state funded renourished Gulffront beaches within the city limits may have direct and immediate consequences upon state and federal cost shares provided to Manatee County for the 2014 renourishment project and any future renourishment projects," Hunzeker wrote. According to an agreement between the county and the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, public parking provisions must be maintained throughout the 10-year duration of that Dec. 14, 2014, agreement. In other words, if the city decides to inhibit or restrict public access to the beaches it could mean the end of state and federal funding for renourishment. And, like it or not, replenishing the sand on our artificial shoreline is essential unless we want Gulf Drive to someday have a waterfront view. We also agree with Hunzeker that the city should first get confirmation from the FDEP that the parking plan won't adversely affect state and federal funding for renourishment. Without that, Holmes Beach commissioners could be risking more than they realize.
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Stop the insanity Your traffic study article last week was most helpful in understanding our perpetual traffic jams leading to Cortez Bridge. Commissioner Benac is “adamant” that the study would not include the consideration of new or expanded bridges. The dirty little secret around Cortez Village is that in five years these same politicians will be crying that we need a four-lane Cortez Bridge to the Island because of the present horrendous traffic problems. Add the 92,000 daily cars on Cortez Road that owner of Manatee Fruit admitted when he presented to the county commission his two proposals to build 8,300 homes. This will flood our roads, necessitating new and expanded bridges to the Island. When will this greed and insanity end? Joe Kane Cortez
A few suggestions The Sun newspaper invited us to send in our suggestions about what individuals might do to impact our future on the Island. (The Sun, Dec. 30) Here are several suggestions from my
husband and me: Charge a $2 entry fee to the Island. Use this money to: 1. Clean up trash and litter, especially after high-use periods. 2. Create a watchdog agency to assist city hall employees in monitoring rental agencies to ensure rules and ordinances are followed. 3. Create a watchdog agency to assist city hall employees in monitoring developers to ensure they are following plans as approved by the building department. In addition, ordinances should be created to disallow non-complying developers from building on the Island. Our mayor and city commissioners here in Holmes Beach are doing a superb job working together to address these issues. It is important that all three Island cities join together to work on these same issues, especially to change the state ordinance that severely limits local governments' control. Jeannie and Gary Hudkins Holmes Beach
Deja vu, all over again Well, here we go again. From all indications, this winter/spring season will bring unprecedented
Take The Sun Survey on Page 7. traffic snarls to our little Island paradise. So, what's the plan? As far as I can discern, we'll be relying on the same old traffic lights, the new and improved Holmes Beach 25 mph speed limit and a new ridiculously expensive future study to control this massive traffic flow. Wow! How long must our elected officials keep their heads in the sand? I am extremely tired of making suggestions that they've constantly ignored. Anyone else want to try? Bob McCaffrey Holmes Beach
Your thoughts?
Got an opinion, a complaint or a compliment? Is there something you need to get off your chest? Send us a letter to the editor and have your say. There are several ways to make your opinion known. Visit our website at www.amisun.com and click on the “contact us” link at the top of the home page. Or, e-mail The Sun directly at news@amisun.com. If you prefer the oldfashioned way you can mail a letter to us at The Anna Maria Island Sun, Island Sun Plaza, P.O. Box 1189, Anna Maria, FL 34216. Letters should be kept to 300 words or less and must contain your name and the city in which you reside. Personal attacks and obscene language will not be printed. Letters also may be edited for length and content.
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the sun survey
on the agenda
PREVIOUS QUESTION: Do you think the state-funded $675,000 traffic study of AMI and Longboat Key is a good idea?
Anna Maria
70%
This is the perfect opportunity to talk about a bridge from Longboat to the mainland.
4%
Yes, it is needed to better understand traffic patterns.
10005 Gulf Drive
1/14: City Commission meeting and work session, 6 p.m. For information, call 7086130.
Bradenton Beach 107 Gulf Drive N.
1/13: City Commission work session, 1 p.m. 1/13: Scenic WAVES, 3 p.m. 1/20: Planning and Zoning Board, 1 p.m. 1/21: City Commission meeting, noon. For information, call 7781005.
Holmes Beach 5801 Marina Drive
1/14: City Commission work session, 7 p.m. For information, call 7085800.
7
Island-wide
1/14: Manasota League of Cities, Longboat Key Town Hall, 501 Bay Isles Road, 10 a.m. 1/19: Island Transportation Planning Organization, Holmes beach City Hall, 2 p.m. 1/20: Coalition of Barrier Island Elected Officials, Longboat Key Town Hall, 501 Bay Isles Road, 2 p.m.
Martin Luther King Day Monday, Jan. 18 The administrative offices of the West Manatee Fire District and the cities of Anna Maria, Bradenton Beach and Holmes Beach will be closed. There will be no change in Waste Management or Waste Pro service.
mark your calendar Note: Events are free unless indicated.
26%
No, it is a waste of taxpayer money that could be spent elsewhere.
THIS WEEK’S SURVEY What do you think about the proposal to no longer list manatees as endangered?
Wednesday Jan. 13
• Bad move based on flawed survey methodology. • Good move if it means manatees have made a comeback and are increasing in numbers.
To vote, go to www.amisun.com or scan this code to vote by smartphone. LIKE us on our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/AnnaMariaIslandSun View The Sun’s online edition at www.issuu.com/AnnaMariaIslandSun
Early Settler’s Bread for sale, AMI Historical Museum, 402 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., $5. Adult coloring club, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, noon. Chair yoga, Anna Maria Island Art League, 5312 Holmes Blvd., Holmes Beach, 11:45 a.m., to 12:30 p.m. $10. Register to ArtLeagueAMI@gmail.com or 941-7782099. Ceili dancing, Sandpiper Mobile Resort, 2601 Gulf Drive, Bradenton Beach, 1 to 3 p.m. West Manatee bike tour, meet at Riverview Pointe Preserve, end of 75th Street, Bradenton, 1 to 3:30 p.m. Reserve to 941-748- 4501, ext. 6039. AMI Community Connections fellowship, AMI Community Center, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria, 2 p.m. Chess Club, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 3 p.m.
Thursday Jan. 14
Zumba with Suzy, Aging in Paradise Resource Center, 2nd Floor, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, 10 to 11 a.m., $10 donation suggested. RSVP to 941-383-
6493 or maryannbrady@ aginginparadise.org. Ceili dancing, Sandpiper Mobile Resort, 2601 Gulf Drive, Bradenton Beach, 1 to 3 p.m. Travel and Lecture Series with Richard Sanchez, of the Egmont Key Alliance, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2 p.m.
Friday Jan. 15
Opening reception, Artists Guild show “Art Explosion,” The Studio at Gulf and Pine, 10101 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria, 6 to 8 p.m. AMI Community Connections mingle, bring a dish to share and drinks, AMI Community Center, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria, 6 p.m.
Saturday Jan. 16
Paddle Robinson Preserve, 99th Street Northwest and 17th Avenue Northwest, Bradenton, 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Reserve to 941-7425757, ext. 7. Meditation, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 11 a.m. STEAM with Mad Science: Fire and Ice, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2 p.m. Starry night telescope exploration, Robinson Preserve, 99th Street Northwest see CALENDAR, page 9
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JANUARY 13, 2016
ANNA MARIA ISLAND’S
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Mondays
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9
mark your calendar FROM PAGE 7
and 17th Avenue Northwest, Bradenton, 6 to 8 p.m. Reserve to 941-748-4501 ext. 6039
Sunday Jan. 17
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. Charity food challenge, mac and cheese, Bridge Street Market, Bradenton Beach, noon to 2 p.m.
Tuesday Jan. 19
Preschool story time, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m. Computer class: iPad, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 3 p.m.
Wednesday Jan. 20
Couch to 5K fitness program, Robinson Preserve, 99th Street Northwest and 17th Avenue Northwest, Bradenton, 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. Reserve to 941-748- 4501, ext. 6044. Tween Book Club, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 6 p.m.
Thursday
Saturday
Zumba with Suzy, Aging in Paradise Resource Center, 2nd Floor, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, 10 to 11 a.m., $10 donation suggested. RSVP to 941-3836493 or maryannbrady@aginginparadise. org. Friends of the Island Branch Library Book Club, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m. Aerobics for Seniors, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, 11 a.m. Successful Women Aligning Together, Bridge Street Bistro, 111 Gulf Drive, Bradenton Beach, 11:45 a.m. to 1:15 p.m. Members, $12, guests, $17. RSVP to swatami@ gmail.com Friends’ Lecture and Travel Series with Thomas Tryon, of the Sarasota Herald Tribune,, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2 p.m.
Kayaking for first timers, Robinson Preserve, 99th Street Northwest and 17th Avenue Northwest, Bradenton, 9 a.m. to noon. Reserve to 941-742-5757, ext. 7. Chess class with a chess master, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m. Healing meditation with Sheryl Spikes, AMI Art League, 5312 Holmes Blvd., Holmes Beach, 11 a.m. to noon. Reserve to 941-7782099 or or ArtLeagueAMI@gmail.com Lego club, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2 p.m. Hawaiian Luau dinner and show to benefit The Center, on the beach, 6 to 10 p.m., $150 for two through Jan. 15, $100 each after.
Jan. 21
Jan. 23
Friday Jan. 22
Forty Carrots program for babies and children to age 5, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m. Knitting/crochet group, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2 p.m.
F WATER
RONT
DININ
D VE R TI SE M EN T B R IN G IN TH IS A
Sunday Jan. 24 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. Anna Maria Island Concert Chorus and Orchestra performance of “New Year’s Eve Waltzes,” Kirkwood Presbyterian Church, 6101 Cortez Road W., Bradenton, 2 p.m., $25.
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s are not Photocopie offer in e of service. the dered at times the right to modify ren sur be ill reserv on(s) must trées. Coup Shack Marina, Bar & Gr2016. od of two (2) en 31, ires January the purchase on. The Seafo on valid per any other offer or coup any reason. Offer exp up co (1) ne for h *O t valid wit d to cancel the offer an permitted. No at any time, any way, or
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Emergency injunction requested Marina owners are trying to shut down new businesses located on the city’s pier. BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
BRADENTON BEACH – Bradenton Beach Marina owners Allan and Michael Bazzy have requested an emergency injunction as part of their legal challenge to the Historic Bridge Street Pier sublease agreements. The sublease agreements the father and son tandem object to were entered into late last year when AMOB restaurant owner and primary pier tenant John Horne agreed to sublease the two small commercial spaces located next to the city-owned restaurant space to Sherman Baldwin, Laura Shely and AnnMarie Nicholas. Filed with the 12th Judicial Circuit Court on Monday, Jan. 4, the emergency motion for a temporary injunction prepared by attorney Nelon Kirkland says, “Plaintiffs pray for this court to enter a temporary injunction prohibiting the commission and city staff from proceeding with any subleases for
joe hendricks | sun
Last week, A Room with a Hue and Tide & Moon 2 co-owner AnnMarie Nicholas was busy painting tropical accessories to sell in her newly opened business. property two and three, and prohibiting any entity that has subleased property two and three from operating or conducting business on said properties until the code is complied with for public hearings and meetings and requests for proposals are put out for
bid to the public.” The motion does not ask for the restaurant operations to be suspended. Mayor Bill Shearon announced the injunction filing at the Thursday, Jan. 7 City Commission meeting, but did not go into detail. As of Sunday, no injunc-
tion hearing date had been granted or scheduled. On Saturday, Baldwin said, “We don’t think it has merit, and we’re moving ahead. We have taken possession of the property and will be building out the structure next week. We are going to let the city know that we expect them to make that point that we have taken possession of the property,” Baldwin said. He plans to open the Paradise Boat Tours Activity Center that will serve as the new headquarters for his tour boat operations that utilizes the city’s day dock as a point of arrival and departure for passengers. He also plans to sell live bait as soon as a new bait well is installed. At the advice of his attorney, Baldwin has not responded to the original lawsuit the Bazzys initiated in November. Although Kirkland has claimed this places Baldwin in an automatic state of default, Baldwin’s attorney advised him to allow the city of Bradenton Beach and Horne, as the primary defendants, to wage this legal battle. see injunction, page 14
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JANUARY 13, 2016
County prevails in Long Bar suit It remains to be seen if the developers will appeal the circuit court decision. BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
BRADENTON – Circuit Court Judge John Lakin issued a ruling last week that continues to deny Long Bar Pointe developer Carlos Beruff the ability to build a marina or dredge a navigation channel through coastal mangroves and into Sarasota Bay. Lakin heard the case in early December and provided his final summary judgement ruling on Tuesday, Jan. 5. “Needless to say, we are immensely pleased with the court’s decision,” said Manatee County Attorney Mitchell Palmer. Lakin’s ruling supported the county’s argument that the four-year window to challenge the comp plan adopted in 1989 expired in 1993. “This ruling serves to vindicate the county commission’s decision not to amend its comprehensive plan back in August of 2013 when we had that major hearing at the convention center. It makes it clear that any developer who plans to mount a facial attack on
Media pool photo
County attorneys Chris DeCarlo and Anne Morris formed two-thirds of the legal team that successfully argued the county’s position. the comprehensive plan is going to be untimely. “Secondly, it sends a very clear message that the coastal element of the county’s comprehensive plan is sound and we have at least one circuit court judge that has announced that those restrictions are a proper and lawful exercise of the county’s police power,” Palmer said.
34th ANNUAL
CORTEZ COMMERCIAL
FISHING FESTIVAL
FEB. 13 & 14 10 A.M. TO 6 P.M.
www.cortez-fish.org For information call 941-254-4972 The festival is located at the East end of town adjacent to the Florida Maritime Museum on 119th St. W. to the Bay. Offsite free parking is available at: • G.T. Bray Park (with $2.50 round trip shuttle to Cortez) (5502 33rd Ave Dr W., 34209 -- turn east off 59th St onto 33rd Ave Dr) • Coquina Beach (with $2.50 round trip shuttle to Cortez) • One block east of the village, off Cortez Road (5-minute walk)
ADMISSION
$3
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KIDS 12 & UNDER FREE LIVE MUSIC COMMUNITY DISPLAYS EXPANDED KIDS AREA LARGER PARKING AREA NAUTICAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL ART
Citing case law, Lakin wrote, “Contrary to the plaintiffs’ assertions, Florida property law does not confer about riparian property owners a private property right to dredge channels or basins, but merely confers constitutionally projected rights to access adjacent waters. Nor does Florida law recognize dredging uses as rights associated with ownership of submerged lands.”
As for the 522-acre property located along El Conquistador Parkway in west Bradenton, Lakin wrote, “The comprehensive plan allows ample opportunities for plaintiffs and property owners to put their property to reasonable use. The future land use policies allow for residential, commercial and industrial development, including water dependent uses on uplands adjacent to coastal wetlands and submerged lands.” Although not mentioned during the December hearing, Palmer explained that a Bert Harris claim previously filed by the plaintiffs and later dropped would have provided Beruff the ability to seek $18 million in compensation had his attorney, William Moore, prevailed. “We, of course, respectfully disagree with the court’s ruling,” Moore said of Lakin’s decision. Palmer said: “I am immensely proud our legal team: Chris DeCarlo, Bill Clague and Anne Morris. They put in a ton of hours on this case, and that effort paid off with a very nice victory.” Beruff has 30 days from the day Lakin issued his ruling to file a notice of appeal if he wishes to do so. see long bar, page 32
JANUARY 13, 2016
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Runners take to streets The Anna Maria Elementary School Dolphin Dash is endorsed by the Road Runners Club of America and the Bradenton Runners Club. BY TOM VAUGHT SUN STAFF WRITER | tvaught@amisun.com
HOLMES BEACH ¬– Running shoes will be hitting the pavement on Saturday, Jan. 16, starting at the south parking lot of Anna Elementary School (AME) as the Dolphin Dash gets underway. The 5K race starts art 8 a.m., and there will be a one-mile fun run starting at 9 a.m. Runners check in at 7 a.m. They can register online at runnergirl.com. T-shirts and goodie bags are guaranteed to those who pre-registered by Jan. 5. The cost for those who did not pre-register is $30 for adults, $15 for children under 18. Students at AME have been training before school hours on Wednesdays. This event is popular with families, especially with AME students’ families. After the race, there will be snacks and refreshments for the runners by Poppo’s Taqueria, of Anna Maria, according to race coordinator Jesse Brisson. Then the awards ceremony begins. Awards go to the best overall female/male; masters (40+) female/male; grand masters (50+) female/ male; senior grand masters (60+) female/male; veteran grand masters (70+) female/male; female/male age group awards through third place: 9 & under, 10-12, 13-15, 16-19, 20-24, 25-29, 30-34, 35-39, 40-44, 45-49, 50-54, 55-59, 60-64, 65-69, 70-74, 75-79, 80+.
Three Waterfront Restaurants. Three Great Deals. Dine with a complimentary bottle of wine. Simply present this ad to enjoy a free bottle of manager’s select wine when you purchase any two lunch or dinner entrees. Dine in only, no carry out. Valid only at the Sandbar.
941.778.0444 Anna Maria Island, FL
Buy one entrée, get one entrée half off. Purchase an entrée and receive a second entrée of equal or lesser value at half price. Simply present this ad and enjoy our brand new menu. Valid only at the Beach House.
941.779.2222 North Bradenton Beach, FL
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941.383.2391 North Longboat Key, FL
Must present coupon to receive offer. Offers cannot be combined. Gratuity not included. All offers valid until 1/31/16.
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THE SUN
Wealth vs. income Investment Corner TOM BREITER
R
ecently I read an article on CNN’s Money site regarding what level of income it took to be in the top 1 percent of wealthiest families in the U.S. It was an interesting read, but I think the article missed the mark for many readers. Wealth and income are different, although not totally unrelated things. Wealth is most appropriately defined as “the value of what you have in cash, investments, real estate, and perhaps the value of a business you own.” Income is the rate at which money flows into your household. For those employed at a job or running a business it is possible to have a very high level of income – it took $429,000 to be a top one percenter in 2015 – but to have very little wealth. Wealth is the result of making more money than you spend and pay in taxes and then accumulating the difference in the form of savings or investment capital to be used to eventually generate income when you no longer wish to work. If high income earners spend most of what they make and don’t take the savings and investment part of the process seriously, a lifetime of high income could yield little wealth and a retirement lifestyle that is below expectations. Starting early and consistent-
ly allocating income to investment is the best way to build wealth over time. For those retired from employment, there is a closer tie between wealth and income. Obviously those who do a better job of accumulating and investing will have a larger pool of funds available to invest to produce income, hopefully providing the lifestyle they desire in retirement. The CNN Money article did provide some more fun facts I’ll share with you here. It took $1.9 million to make it into the top 0.1 percent (the top 10 percent of the top 1 percent), and $9.5 million of income in 2015 to make the top 0.01 percent (the top 1 percent of the top 1 percent). Of course, since these individuals are in higher tax brackets, they pay a disproportionate share of income tax as well. The top one percent on income earners will pay about 20 percent of the total tax collected by the IRS from individuals for 2015. In summary, income doesn’t generally turn into wealth without a disciplined approach to savings and investment. Pay attention to your savings rate during your working years, and the reward of a great retirement lifestyle may be yours. Tom Breiter is President of Breiter Capital Management, Inc., an Anna Maria based investment advisor. He can be reached at 7781900. Some of the investment concepts highlighted in this column may carry the risk of loss of principal, and investors should determine appropriateness for their personal situation before investing. www.breitercapital.com
JANUARY 13, 2016
INJUNCTION: requested FROM PAGE 10
On Saturday, Horne said he was not aware an injunction motion had been filed. Shely and Nicholas continue to be referred to in the court documents filed by Kirkland as “unknown tenants” despite the fact that their shared business operation, A Room with a Hue and Tide & Moon 2, opened in late December. The original complaint Kirkland filed for the Bazzys in November claims former Mayor Jack Clarke and City Attorney Ricinda Perry committed Sunshine violations when discussing the lease terms with Horne outside of an advertised public meeting. The complaint also claims the chosen sublease operations do not serve the best interests of the local boating community. In July, the Bazzys were among those who responded to a request for proposal (RFP) issued by the city. Their proposal to lease all three city-owned spaces was not given final consideration by the city commission because their undefined plans for the restaurant space called for other Bridge Street restaurants to help provide the food service as part of a cooperative effort. Attorney Fred Moore is representing the city in this matter. In December, he sent an e-mail to Shearon expressing his legal opinion that the sublease agreements were valid and permissible according to the original RFP.
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JANUARY 13, 2016
2016 Anna Maria Island Sun Readers’ Choice Business
Business
People, Places, Food & Entertainment
1 Resort
40 Women’s Apparel
78 Electrician
2 Souvenir Shop
41 Real Estate Co.
79 Architect
3 Clothing Store
42 Real Estate Assoc. (include location)
80 architectual Design
4 Marina
43 Rental Co.
81 Personal Trainer
5 Hotel/Motel
44 Painter (include location)
82 Pet Grooming
6 Bait & Tackle Shop
45 Window Repair
83 Restaurant (overall)
7 Boating Store
46 Pack & Ship
84 Art Gallery
8 Convenience Store
47 Sign Maker (include location)
85 View
9 Antique/Collectible Store
48 Service Station
10 Auto Service
49 Bike Rental
11 Car Wash
50 Fitness
12 Car Dealer
51 Tattoo
13 Carpet Cleaner
52 Outdoor Sports Store
14 Commercial Print Store
53 Sports Memorabilia
15 Canvas & Upholstery (include location)
People & Places
16 Dry Cleaner (include location)
88 Bagel Shop 89 Bar & Grill 90 Breakfast 91 Night Spot 92 Barbecue 93 Ice Cream Place 94 Deli
55 Pier
18 Floor Coverings
95 Sub/Sandwich
56 Golf Course
19 Florist
96 Health Food Store
57 School
20 Frame Shop 21 Gift Shop 22 Grocery Store 23 Hair Salon 24 Heat & Air 25 Home Builder 26 Jewelry Store 27 Landscape/Garden Shop 28 Liquor Store 29 Manicurist (include location) 30 Men’s Apparel 31 Pest Control 32 Pet Store 33 Pharmacy 34 Pharmacist (include location) 35 Plumber 36 Pool Cleaner (include location)
97 Pizza
58 School Principal
98 Live Theater
59 School Teacher (include location)
99 Band
60 Veterinarian (include location)
100 New Restaurant
61 Veterinary Clinic
101 Most Romantic
62 Doctor
102 Takeout
63 Charity
103 Festival
64 Spa
104 Seafood Restaurant
65 Hearing Aid Specialist
105 Mexican Restaurant
66 Attorney
106 Italian Restaurant
67 Place to see a Sunset
107 Chinese Restaurant
68 Boat Captain (include location)
108 German Restaurant
69 Massage Therapy
109 Favorite Waiter/Waitress (include location)
70 Mortgage Co.
110 Favorite Bartender
71 Service Org.
111 Favorite Candy Store
72 Eye Care
112 Favorite Bakery
73 Financial Planner
113 Favorite Café
75 Retirement Center
38 Shopping Center
76 Dentist
39 Travel Agency
77 Chiropractor
ENTRY FORM (Must be completed for votes to be accepted) Name: Address: | Night
I am at least 18 years of age or older (please check box)
(include location)
114 Favorite Interior Design
74 Business Person
37 Pool Contractor
Signature:
87 Burger
54 Beach
17 Bank (include location)
Phone: Day
86 Grouper Sandwich
115 Chef (include location) 116 Caterer (include location) 117 Specialty Gourmet
RULES
Please read carefully. To vote in The Sun’s Readers’ Choice Awards you must use an official entry ballot published in The Sun. Copies and faxes will not be accepted. The ballots will appear in The Sun on Jan. 13, Jan. 20, Jan. 27. Only one ballot per person is allowed. At least 10 CATEGORIES must be filled in for the ballot to count and the entry form must be completed. If you work for The Sun or are related to someone who does, you can’t play. Complete ballots may be dropped off at The Sun’s office, Island Sun Plaza, 9801 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria. Or you can mail it in to The Sun’s Newspaper, Island Sun Plaza, PO Box 1189, Anna Maria, FL 34216. All ballots must be in by January 29, 2016 at 4pm. Prizes in the drawing may not be transferred. Winners are drawn at random from all entries and you don’t have to buy anything to win. Accepting the prizes means winners agree to the use of their names and photographs in subsequent ads and news stories. You must be 18 years or older to participate. Ballots which show signs of tampering will not be counted. We reserve the right to reject any ballot(s) or disqualify any contestant(s).
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JANUARY 13, 2016
Register to be noticed
Business owners only have until Friday, Jan. 14, to register for the Anna Maria Island Chamber Business Development Expo, to be held on Tuesday, Jan. 19, from 5 to 7:30 p.m. at the Center of Anna Maria Island, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria. The Expo offers lectures during the morning and then networking in the vendor hall. There will be refreshments and snacks, and the expo organizers expect a good turnout. Don’t wait to register as spaces are going fast, according to the Chamber. Expo sponsors are The Bradenton Herald, LaPensee Plumbing, Pools and Air, Webtivity Designs, Richardson Retirement, Slims Place, the Manatee Chamber of Commerce and the Anna Maria Island Historical Society
Center to host Hawaiian luau The Center of Anna Maria Island will host an authentic Hawaiian Luau dinner and show on the beach on Jan. 23, from 6 to 10 p.m. This family event is being held at a private home, and the address is on the tickets, as is the parking location. Dinner includes roasted pig, Hawaiian side dishes and beverages including an open bar. The show features hula dancers and the famous Samoan Fire Knife Dance.
www.centerami.org
Join us at the beach rain or shine January 23rd 2016 6pm - 10pm
For an authentic Hawaiian Luau with Hula Dancers, Fired Dancers and Polynesian Drums Feast on a Roast Pig and Hawaiian Cuisine. * SPECIAL SALE FOR LIMITED TIME: GET 2 TICKETS FOR $150! OFFER ENDS Friday January 15th at 9pm TICKETS: $100 donation per person.
The Center will be providing show, food, and beverages.
For more information contact: Wende Webb (941) 778-1908 *9203 or wendew@centerami.org * Donations are Tax Deductible EIN # 59-6166231
THE SUN
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The show will be followed by dancing and raffles prizes. A ticket special with two tickets for $150 is being offered until Jan. 15 at 9 p.m. After that, tickets are $100 and include food, show and drinks. Call The Center at 941-778-1908 to reserve tickets. For more information, contact Wende Webb at wendew@centerami.org.
Science Mondays at The Center The Lifelong Learning Academy is holding science discussions on Mondays from 1 to 2:30 p.m. at the Center of Anna Maria Island, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria. Each session costs $75. The list of sessions is: • Jan. 18: The Aging Brain: Expectations and Opportunities with Alan Grindal; • Jan. 25: What Is Life? with Jan Skalny; • Feb. 1: Figuring Out the Universe with Jeff Rodgers; • Feb. 8: Life in the Universe with Jeff Rodgers; • Feb. 15: Alzheimer’s Disease: Current Realities and Future Prospects with Alan Grindal. To register, log onto www.lla-sm.org or call 941-359-4296.
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THE SUN
JANUARY 13, 2016
We have all been here before
O
ne of the advantages of covering a beat like the environment for several decades is that it enables you to recognize deja vu when you hear it, all over again. The recent U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service proposal to downlist manatees from an endangered to a threatened species on the federal level mirrors what happened in notso-ancient Florida history. Let’s play a little history game of then and now.
Then (2001)
The Coastal Conservation Association, a recreational boating group, petitions the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) to reduce the imperiled status of manatees from endangered to threatened.
Now (2016)
Save Crystal River Inc., a recreational boating group, celebrates the success of its 2012 petition to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) to reduce the imperiled
Florida. – Jim Valade, Florida manatee recovery coordinator for USFWS in Jacksonville.
Then (2006)
BY CINDY LANE status of manatees from endangered to threatened.
Then (2006)
The reclassification will not reduce protection measures. Manatees will continue to be federally protected under both the Endangered Species Act and the Marine Mammal Protection Act, and on a state level under the Florida Manatee Sanctuary Act. - Henry Cabbage, FWC
Now (2016)
The Endangered Species Act and the Marine Mammal Protection Act are still in place. - Michael Oetker, deputy regional director for the USFWS in Atlanta. All protections will remain in place in
Manatees are no longer in imminent danger of extinction, but still have a very high risk of extinction. – Henry Cabbage, FWC
Now (2016)
The West Indian manatee no longer meets the definition of “endangered” and should be reclassified as “threatened.” – U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service 12-Month Finding on a Petition to Downlist the West Indian Manatee, and Proposed Rule to Reclassify the West Indian Manatee as Threatened.
Now let’s look at some quick historical numbers. Then (1996) Red tide killed 151 manatees. Later (2013) Red tide killed 277 manatees. Then (2010)
Watercraft collisions killed 83 manatees. Later (2015) Watercraft collisions killed 87 manatees. History repeats itself, as Mr. Booth at Manatee High School right here in Manatee County was fond of saying, and those who do not study history are bound to repeat it. Remember when they raised the speed limit on the interstate from 55 mph to 65 mph? Now it’s 75 mph in some places? And everybody goes 10 mph faster regardless? Even if the wildlife officials are right and the manatee slow speed zones remain in place, is it crazy to think that boaters, being occasional interstate drivers themselves, will go faster once they find out that manatees are no longer endangered, but merely threatened? And won’t people like the CCA and Save Crystal River wait for the furor to die down after the downlisting, then file another petition, this time asking for some slow speed zones to be eliminated? SEE COAST LINES, PAGE 25
JANUARY 13, 2016
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AMICCO season continues off-island The Anna Maria Island Concert Chorus and Orchestra (AMICCO) will finish its 2015-16 season with three concerts at Kirkwood Presbyterian Church, 6101 Cortez Road W., Bradenton on Sundays at 2 p.m. On Jan. 24, AMICCO will perform “New Year’s Eve Waltzes,” Sándor Barinkay's aria from the operetta The Gypsy Baron; Johann Strauss II The Blue Danube, Kaiser-Walzer and Faust Margarita's Aria; Charles Gounod Musetta's Waltz from La Bohème; Giacomo Puccini Waltz of the Flowers from The Nutcracker; Peter Ilyich Tchaikovsky Eugene Onegin - Entr'acte and Waltz with Chorus; Peter Ilyich Tchaikovsky Waltz from Masquerade Suite; Aram Khachaturian La Traviata and Si ridesta in ciel l'aurora by Giuseppe Verdi. Vocalist, Camden McLean, the AMICCO 2015 Young Solo Artist Competition Winner, will perform two Mozart arias, “Ach ich fuhl’s” from Die Zauberflote and “Bester Jungling” from the Impresario. The Rotary Club of Anna Maria Island sponsors the scholarship. The public is invited to the competition on Saturday, Jan, 30 at 1:30 p.m. at Palma Sola Presbyterian Church, 6510 Third Avenue W, Bradenton. Information is available for
provided
Vocalist Camden McLean will sing two arias with the Anna Maria Island Community Choir and Orchestra Jan. 24. interested students at amicco.org or by calling 941-727-9886. The next performance features music by Handel on Feb. 21 and on March 20, AMICCO will perform its annual opera with selected arias, chorus and overtures from celebrated operas. Tickets are available online at amicco.org, at the Anna Maria Island Chamber, 5313 Gulf Drive N., Holmes Beach, by calling 941-795-2370 or at the door if still available.
Farwell to leader Members of the Anna Maria island Historical Society board of directors presented this framed photo of the ribbon cutting at the renovated Island Historical Museum to Maureen McCormick, the group’s president who is moving to Ireland with her husband, Dave. Valerie wilson | submitted
20
THE SUN
OUTDOORS
JANUARY 13, 2016
Eco tours offer unique experiences I
f you appreciate the outdoors and happen to be here because you value the beauty and diversity of the area, then there is an experience available to you that you need to know about. It’s all made possible by the Science and Environmental Council of Southwest Florida, a consortium of local environmental groups whose mission is to increase sciencebased environmental understanding, conservation and restoration in the region. The Council has developed a program featuring tours to highlight the areas natural assets. Realizing that these assets are the foundation of the area’s economy and define its quality of life, the Council strives to inspire outdoor sports and recreation as well as art and culture. The Council has established itself as the community's hub of environmental leadership by working with leading science-based environmental, non-profit and governmental organizations, including environmental scientists, educators and natural resource managers. One of the organization's first projects was a Watershed Mobile Phone Tour. The tour describes and highlights important elements of the area’s watershed and can be accessed for free by phone from anywhere. An audio message gives listeners facts about the local watershed and ways
Reel Time RUSTY CHINNIS to help protect it. A list of the locations and phone numbers can be found on the organizations Website at http://www.scienceandenvironment.org/projects/mobilephone-tour/ . There currently are a total of 30 stops on the tour. More locations are being added every year. From a location dial 941-926-6813 and enter the stop number. It’s also possible to take a virtual tour by clicking on a map number on the Website to play the audio. The most recent addition to the Councils programs is a project called ((ecko)) which focusses on ecotourism. Realizing that southwest Florida's natural environment is the foundation of our economy and quality of life, the group has developed a number of tours aimed at exposing tourists and locals to some of the area’s superlative natural resources. All-inclusive tours showcase the Gulf coast's spectacular natural diversity and cultural heritage by combining education,
rusty chinnis | sun
Kayaking Manatee County's Robinson Preserve is one of many opportunities ((ecko)) offers exploration, and relaxation. Here are a few multi-day all-inclusive ecotours – Wild Myakka: biking, paddling and primitive camping along the Myakka River. The exclusive tour provides an opportunity to kayak, hike, bike and camp the Myakka River State Park and the
wilderness. The tour includes concierge camping during the four-day, four-night adventure. Tour dates are available in January, February and March. see reel time, page 21
tide chart for anna maria city pier Jan 13-20 Day Date
A.M. High Time Feet
A.M. Low Time Feet
P.M. High Time Feet
P.M. Low Time Feet
Sun Rise Set
Day Date
A.M. High Time Feet
A.M. Low Time Feet
P.M. High Time Feet
Wed 1/13
12:22a 2.06
7:50a -0.45
2:24p 1.27
7:43p 0.62
7:22-5:56
Sun 1/17
5:18a 1.02
10:27a 0.56
5:03p 1.94
Thu 1/14
1:21a 1.84
8:28a -0.24
2:57p 1.59
8:51p 0.48
Mon 1/18
7:34a 0.93
12:55a -0.12
5:56p 2.03
11:15a 0.78
Fri 1/15
2:26a 1.57
9:06a 0.02
3:34p 1.71
10:08p 0.32
Tue 1/19
9:38a 1.01
2:10a -0.36
6:53p 2.11
12:17p 0.94
Sat 1/16
3:42a 1.27
9:45a 0.29
4:16p 1.83
11:31p 0.12
Wed 1/20
10:45a 1.10
3:11a -0.56
7:48p 2.17
1:25p 1.02
7:22-5:57 7:22-5:57 7:22-5:58
P.M. Low Time Feet
Sun Rise Set 7:22-5:59 7:22-6:00 7:21-6:01 7:21-6:01
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JANUARY 13, 2016
THE SUN
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Fishing provides great action 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 snook, redfish, trout, pompano and blues in Sarasota Bay and trout, blues and redfish in Gasparilla Sound on CAL jigs with shad tails and DOA Deadly Combos and snook in the ICW near Venice at night on flies during the past week. Keith McClintock and Victor Feldman, both from Illinois, had good action in Gasparilla Sound with me on Wednesday. They caught numerous trout to 18 inches, bluefish to 4 pounds and several reds on CAL jigs with shad tails. Chuck Hempfling, also from Illinois, joined Keith for a trip in Sarasota Bay on Friday. They had great action in skinny water catching numerous reds and snook to 26 inches and trout to 23 inches on CAL jigs with shad tails. They also had some action catching and releasing trout and blues on deep grass flats also on CAL jigs with shad tails. Mike Manning, from Sarasota, and his son Adam, fished Sarasota Bay with me on Saturday. They had great action fishing deep grass on the east side of the bay with trout, bluefish and a pompano on CAL jigs with shad tails. We moved to skinny water, and they kept it going with a couple of big trout, snook and a red also on CAL jigs with shad tails. Adam scored his first slam! Trout, bluefish, Spanish mackerel and more should be a good option on deep grass flats of Sarasota Bay. Look for reds, snook and big trout mixed with mullet schools on shallow flats and edges of bars in Sarasota Bay and backcountry areas of Charlotte Harbor and lower Tampa Bay. Find catch and release snook fishing around lighted docks.
Watershed project grants The Sarasota Bay Estuary Program is offering up to $3,000 in grant money for projects that focus on bay habitat improvement, bay water quality improvement and/or bay related environmental education. The deadline to apply is March 2. Businesses, non-profit organizations, schools, academic institutions, civic associations, religious organizations and
CAPTAIN RICK GRASSETT | submitted
Chuck Hempfling had good action in Sarasota Bay catching and releasing reds, snook and trout on CAL jigs with shad tails while fishing with Capt. Rick Grassett.
reel time: Eco tours FROM PAGE 20
neighborhood/homeowners associations located in Sarasota and Manatee counties with projects that will benefit the Sarasota Bay watershed are eligible. Governments and their agencies are not qualified. For more information on the grants and how to apply, visit the Sarasota Bay Estuary Program Website at http:// sarasotabay.org/get-involved/bay-partners-grant-program/.
Gulf Coast Florida Birding is offered in February and May and features trips to four of the area’s top birding destinations as well as all other amenities. You’ll get to kayak, attend a private birding photography workshop and lots more. In addition there is also the Inspired Sarasota Bay Tour in January and May and the Manatee River of Time Tour in
February and June. During all of the tours, you’ll be accompanied by professional naturalists, biologists, maritime historians and master naturalists. You’ll have the opportunity to hike, bike, and kayak into the natural world in a one of a kind experience that will provide a lifetime of memories. For complete details and video introductions, visit http://www.eckotours.com/.
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THE SUN
JANUARY 13, 2016
Deputy fire chief retires after 36 years A retirement ceremony for Deputy Chief Brett Pollock is set for Tuesday, Jan. 19, at 11 a.m.
Luke Berglund, DVM Crit Holland, DVM Jade Kafer, DVM
BY PAT COPELAND
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SUN STAFF WRITER | pcopeland@amisun.com
BRADENTON – Deputy Chief Brett Pollock, of West Manatee Fire & Rescue, is ready for the next chapter in his life after retiring from 36 years with the district this week. “It’s closing one chapter in the story of my life, and the next day a new chapter will be written,� he said. Pollock, a Manatee County native, grew up in Bradenton and received an associate’s degree in business from Manatee Junior College and a degree in real estate from Florida State. At the same time, he served as a volunteer for the West Side Fire District. “My parents had a real estate company, and I had planned to go into the family business, but the recession changed that,� he recalled. “My cousin, John Cagnina, offered me a job at their IGA in Anna Maria until a position opened up in the fire district.� That position opened in December 1983, and Pollock became the first daytime firefighter for the district. As the department grew, he continued his education in fire science technology, inspector certification and fire officer certification and rose through the ranks from engineer to lieutenant to captain to district chief to battalion chief.
Becoming deputy chief
In 2000, Pollock was promoted to deputy chief as West Side’s merger with the Anna Maria Fire District was completed. It was then that he began working on grants for the fire district. “My first grant was from the state for $100,000 for our boat,� he said. “I wrote other grants specific to hurricane preparedness, such as shutters and the apparatus bay doors, and then I started the assistance to firefighters’ grants for mobile data terminals and SCBAs (self contained breathing apparatus).� He said the one that eluded him was a grant to purchase a Centaur, an eightwheel, all terrain vehicle and noted, “I
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Deputy Fire Chief Brett Pollock will say farewell to his job at the fire district but continue to teach and volunteer. tried for five years to get that one. “Then we realized that Robinson Preserve was going forward, and we had no means to get our apparatus in there, so we bought one using impact fees.� All in all, his grant awards totaled nearly $1.8 million, but his crowning achievement was the $1 million he received from the Department of Homeland Security for radios for all the fire departments in the county. “The citizens pay a lot of money to the federal government, so why shouldn’t some of it come back to us?� he reasoned. During his career, Pollock has received many awards including Manatee County Fire Chief of the Year in 2001 and 2006, four hurricane campaign awards, two meritorious service awards and seven wildfire campaign awards. He was deployed to the Columbia Shuttle Recovery in 2003, and in 2013, he was named the Executive Fire Officer of the Year for Florida. Last week at the fire district’s annual awards ceremony, he was named the Fire Officer of the Year and also received a career service award for his 36 years.
Moving forward
Pollock said the biggest change he has seen over the years, in addition to the transition from volunteer to full time firefighters, is the emphasis on education and the fast pace of technology. As a leader with the International
Association of Fire Service Instructors, he has been instrumental in advancing the cause for continuing education in the fire service in Florida. “Education is very important; it gives firefighters the knowledge and skills to do their jobs,� he said. Regarding advances in technology, he said. “It is going at such a fast pace, the fire service doesn’t have the money to keep up with it. “Fortunately Andy (former Chief Andy Price) had the foresight to build up the reserves so we could buy things over time instead of going to the public for more money every time. That’s how we could keep up.� Pollock said he never intended to be a full time firefighter but just “wanted to give back to my community. It’s been a great career, and I wouldn’t change it for the world. You are there to help people in any way you can. What more fulfilling job is there?� However, Pollock doesn’t plan on sitting back in his easy chair on the beach. He’ll be teaching at Manatee Technical College, State College of Florida and the Florida State Fire College in Ocala. In addition, he will be the Southern U.S. regional advocate for the Everyone Goes Home program through the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation, a volunteer position, and a volunteer for the Florida Forestry Service teaching wild land firefighting.
• • • • • • •
TIP-OFFS TO POTENTIAL RIP-OFFS
If you must act now, the offer is probably to good to be true. You pull the permits? - NO Solici ng door to door – “Just finished a job down the street�- NO Unmarked vehicle – NO No physical address for the office/shop – NO Be sure the contractor’s phone number is listed in your local directory. Discount as your’s is a “demonstra on home� – NO Pay everything up-front for a discount? – NO Ask to see your contractor’s license and check with the FL Dept of Business & Professional Regula on to verify. Check with your neighbors and friends – Have they used this contractor before? Don’t be afraid to ask for references. Ask for proof of insurance, both General Liability (to protect your property) and Workers Compensa on (to cover anyone who would get hurt on your job). Get an es mate/proposal in wri ng. Make sure it specifies work to be performed.
JANUARY 13, 2016
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Committee seeks clarified agenda policy A commission discussion ensued last week over the removal of agenda items. BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
BRADENTON BEACH – In response to concerns raised by Commissioner Jake Spooner, the City Commission directed City Attorney Ricinda Perry to draft a resolution that clarifies the meeting agenda process. The commission’s key concern was in regard to who determines if a requested item is included or excluded from a forthcoming agenda. Spooner raised these concerns at last week’s meeting because Mayor Bill Shearon had previously asked the city clerk to remove three items from the draft agenda he was presented with before the Thursday, Jan. 7 agenda was finalized. One of the excluded items was a quality of life ordinance fee resolution discussion requested by Spooner. Two requests submitted by City Engineer Lynn Burnett were also withheld from the agenda. One pertained to street end improvements at the north end of the city; another concerned Gulf Drive drainage and traffic circulation from 13th Street South to Fifth Street South. Spooner said he was requesting clarification or a new policy not because his item had been removed, but to ensure that meeting agendas in general are not subject to censorship by the mayor, the clerk or anybody else. “I would like to see Terri and Ricinda work on a policy,� he said. “I think it’s real simple. Anybody can put an item on the agenda, and it stays there.� Shearon said he thought Robert’s Rules of Order provided the mayor the authority to set the agenda because the mayor chairs the meetings. He also said he felt agenda requests should come from the mayor or the city department heads. Perry said the city charter states that the commission establishes its own policies and procedures, and the commission’s established practice of adopting or amending the agenda at the beginning of
each meeting is an example of modifying those rules. “I don’t think anybody should be able to remove anything off this agenda that someone else in the city thinks is important,� Spooner said. “I don’t think that is the role of the mayor, but if he wants to amend it he can, just like the rest of the commission.� The discussion on this matter was a commission-approved amendment to the agenda, which Spooner requested when the meeting began. Shearon said there are times when required documents and supporting material have not been made available to the commission in a timely manner, and this might necessitate an agenda item being removed. Spooner agreed, but suggested that decision should be determined by a commission vote, rather than one person. Third-term Commissioners Ed Straight and Jan Vosburgh both said they were not aware of previous mayors or clerks removing agenda items without the presenting commissioner’s consent. “With all due respect, we’ve never had one pulled before that was put on by a commissioner,� Straight said. Commissioner Ralph Cole said, “I think we need to set up a clear policy on this, so that if we put something on the agenda it’s going to be on the agenda.� He agreed that the adoption of the agenda is the time and place to decide if an item should be removed. Shearon conceded and said he would no longer refer to these items as agenda requests, but would view them instead as agenda items. Perry said a simple one-page resolution that clarifies this policy would provide a more definitive solution, and she offered to prepare the document. When Shearon reminded the commission her efforts would result in legal fees, Perry offered to write the resolution for free. When Cole asked Perry if she could present it at the next commission meeting, she quipped, “If it’s not pulled.� Cole’s motion was then approved unanimously.
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JANUARY 13, 2016
manatees: Headed off endangered list FRO M PAGE 1
Florida manatee population surveys that are “statistically sound” showed 1,267 animals in 1991 and more than 6,000 in 2015, said Michael Oetker, deputy regional director for the USFWS Atlanta office. Oetker added that other factors include the retrofitting of dangerous warm-water outflow structures where manatees congregate in winter, the addition of slow speed zones and increased rescue efforts. The reclassification proposal was prompted by a five-year study completed in 2007 by the USFWS that recommended the manatee’s downlisting. In 2012, the Pacific Legal Foundation, on behalf of Save Crystal River Inc., a recreational boating group based near a watershed where manatees migrate in large numbers each winter for protection from cold, petitioned USFWS to act on the study. Two years later the USFWS published a finding that the petition presented “substantial information indicating that reclassifying the manatee may be warranted.” The group previously petitioned unsuccessfully to remove protection for manatees in Kings Bay, arguing that slow speed and no wake zones hurt fishing and tourism businesses.
If approved, the reclassification would likely become effective by 2017. The reclassification would not reduce protections for manatees, such as slow-speed zones, according to the USFWS. “All protections will remain in place in Florida,” said Jim Valade, Florida manatee recovery coordinator for USFWS in Jacksonville. Watercraft-related mortality remains the single largest threat in Florida to the manatee, the proposal states, adding, “full removal of this single threat would reduce the risk of extinction to near negligible levels. Over the past five years, more than 80 manatees have died from watercraft-related incidents each year. The highest year on record was 2009, when 97 manatees were killed in collisions with boats.” Last year, 87 manatees died from watercraft collisions, according to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC). The Manatee Individual Photo-identification System identifies more than 3,000 catalogued Florida manatees by scar patterns caused by boats, with most having multiple patterns indicating multiple boat strikes, the proposal states.
1,000
Manatee Deaths in Florida
800
600
400
if the federal agency approves it, FWC spokeswoman Susan Smith said. FWC commissioners voted to downlist manatees to threatened status on the state level in 2006, but suspended the plan in 2007 at the request of Gov. Charlie Crist, who cited “the need for a better method to estimate the population of the Florida manatee.” That’s another concern, Compton said.
One manatee, two manatee
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0 Source: Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission
Down with downlisting
Local environmental group ManaSota-88 opposes the reclassification, and will be filing comments on the Federal Register website at http://www.regulations. gov/#!documentDetail;D=FWSR4-ES-2015-0178-0001, chairman Glenn Compton said. The public comment period is open until midnight on April 7, after which the agency will make its final decision. All comments filed as of press time were opposed to the
reclassification. Downlisting the manatee’s federal status will have a direct impact on the manatee’s status in Florida, Compton said. “I expect the state will be reviewing the fed’s actions and follow suit,” he said. The FWC’s state imperiled species list mirrors the USFWS’s federal imperiled species list for several species, including manatees. The state will recognize the manatee’s federal listing reclassification in state rules
The federal agency is using state synoptic survey results as the basis for its population count, despite the FWC describing the surveys as snapshots of manatee locations on the day of the survey, not reliable population statistics. The 2015 survey showed a record high 6,063 manatees in Florida waters over three days, according to the FWC website, which shows that all previous surveys since 1991 were conducted over one or two days. “The methodology they use from year to year should be consistent,” said Compton, a high school science teacher. “Using different days on different counts is like comparing apples to oranges.” see manatees, page 25
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Boats kill four manatees in Manatee County BY CINDY LANE SUN STAFF WRITER | clane@amisun.com
Four manatees were killed in watercraft collisions in 2015 in Manatee County, according to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC). The four are among the 16 manatee deaths listed in Manatee County for the year. Causes of death for the other 12 manatees
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were listed as “undetermined” or “natural.” The deaths occurred on April 8 in Palma Sola Bay, on July 8 in Palma Sola Bay, on Oct. 23 in Warner’s Bayou East and on Nov. 11 in Tampa Bay near Palmetto. Statewide, 405 manatees died in 2015, including 87 from watercraft collisions, with Lee County leading that count with 20 manatees
killed by watercraft. Other causes of death included cold stress. If you see an injured, dead, tagged or orphaned manatee, or a manatee being harassed, call the FWC at 1-888-404-FWCC (3922) or #FWC or *FWC on your mobile phone, use VHF Channel 16 on your marine radio, or send a text message to Tip@MyFWC.com.
manatees: Off endangered list FROM PAGE 24
“We’re not saying they’re accurate as population numbers, but they do give us a sense of population abundance,” USFWS spokesman Chuck Underwood said. “Technology refinements in aerial surveys give us a better count than in 1991. We can’t use them as statistics. The confidence in what the numbers mean is not very high, but we have to look at those numbers.” “Non-empirical observations” by longtime Floridians also indicate more manatee sightings today, he said. The proposal states the population numbers “in and of themselves are not considered to be reliable indicators of population trends, given concerns about detection probabilities. However, it is likely that a significant amount of the increase does reflect an actual
increase in population size when this count is considered in the context of other positive demographic indicators.” Those indicators, based on a calculation of 5,077 manatees in 2010, less 2,822 manatee deaths from 2010-2014, compared to 6,063 counted in 2015, show resiliency in manatee population growth and survival rates, the proposal states. The proposal cites growth rates through the 2008-2009 winter season which “do not capture recent severe cold events of 2009-2010 and 20102011, the 2012-present Indian River Lagoon die-off event; or the 2013 red tide event.” Red tide killed 277 of the recordhigh 830 manatees that died in 2013, prompting a temporary hold on the downlisting plan, while cold caused
279 of the 766 deaths in 2010, according to the FWC. Population accuracy aside, “The biggest factor is loss of habitat due to development and increased boating with the state’s increasing population,” Compton said. “Whatever gains are purported to occur, I would expect to see that go the other way in the future.” Dr. Katie Tripp, of the Save the Manatee Club, wrote a 27-page letter to the USFWS on the reclassification. “A downlisting to threatened is premature and would substantially interfere with, if not outright prevent, the recovery of the species,” she wrote. “If all of the risks and threats to the manatees are taken into account, the only possible conclusion under the law is to maintain the West Indian Manatee’s status as ‘endangered.’ ”
COAST LINES: We have all been here before FROM PAGE 18
After all, there are more manatees than ever before, they will say, using FWC statistics, which for years have had an asterisk attached to them in press releases saying that the numbers are NOT accurate population counts and should not be reported as such, which seems particularly true of the 2015 count, which was done over three days, as opposed to all the other counts back to 1991
done over one or two days. If we’re lucky, history will repeat itself, and an elected official like former Gov. Charlie Crist will step in and ask the USFWS to please consider adding common sense to the statistical equations in their 28-page proposal. Or maybe democracy will prove once again that it works when people make their voices heard at: http://www.regulations.
gov/#!documentDetail;D=FWSR4-ES-2015-0178-0001 or head to Orlando for a public hearing on Saturday, Feb. 20, from 3 to 6 p.m. at the Buena Vista Palace Conference Center, 1900 Buena Vista Drive in the Center's Great Hall to make their numbers seen. What are you, as a Manatee County resident or visitor, prepared to do to keep manatees swimming in our waters?
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TOWN CRIER
Read me a story Trudy Hill, the children’s librarian, reads stories on Tuesday, Jan. 19, at 10 a.m. Kids between toddler and five years of age are welcome as are their parents at the Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. For more information, call the library at 778-6341.
Off Stage Ladies meet The Off Stage Ladies of the Island Players will meet on Wednesday, Jan. 13, at 11:30 a.m. at IMG Academy Golf Club, 3450 El Conquistador Pkwy, Bradenton for lunch. The program will be a performance by Acting Up. Contact Nancy Ambrose at 941-518-4431 for information.
Learn about the tablet
The wonderful world of coloring Join the Island Branch Library’s new Coloring Club, which holds its initial meeting on Wednesday, Jan. 13, at noon, at 5701 Marina Drive in Holmes Beach. Coloring isn’t just for kids. It can ease stress and turn on your creative juices. It’s free, and it’s fun. Call 778-6341 for more information.
Chess club forming If you never learned to play chess or if you’re a player but can’t find someone to play against, come to the inaugural meeting of the Island Branch Library Chess Club on Wednesday, Jan 13, at 3 p.m. at 5701 Marina Drive, in Holmes Beach. Bring your own chess kit or one will be provided. All ages and skill levels are welcome. Call 7786341 for more information.
The history of Egmont Key Egmont Key Alliance President Richard Sanchez kicks off the 2016 Friends of the Island Branch Library Lecture and Travel Series on Thursday, Jan. 14, at 2 p.m. in the Walker-Swift meeting room of the library at 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. He will speak on the history and restoration of the Egmont Key Lighthouse and the life of a lighthouse keeper. He will also touch on the key’s importance as a military defense for Tampa Bay and the erosion that is slowly taking away the key’s future. The lecture is free, and seating is on a first-come, first served basis. Call 778-6341 for more information.
Garden Club to meet
The Anna Maria Garden Club will begin the new year with its meeting on Wednesday, Jan. 20, at Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, at noon. The program for the meeting will consist of “Wonderful World of Wildflowers” presented by Fran Palmieri. A business meeting will follow. The public is invited. For information, call 778-2607. Save the date for their annual Penny Flower Show on March 16 at Roser. Above, last month, Kristen Stanton on piano and Mary Deur on flute entertained with holiday music.
Manatee County at the next meeting of the Kiwanis Club of Anna Maria Island inside the Manatee Beach Cafe on Saturday, Jan. 16, at 8 a.m. Come early and purchase breakfast. Non-members are welcome as well as Kiwanis Club members on vacation.
ridding the Gulf waters of lionfish. For information on Reef Medics or the cleanup, call Kerri at 941-961-4131 or e-mail info@reefmedics.org. The Website is www.reefmedics.org.
Recharge your Zen
The major differences between the Hillary Clinton and Bernie Sanders campaigns will be discussed at the monthly luncheon meeting of the Anna Maria Island Democratic Club on Monday, Jan. 18, at the Seafood Shack, 4110 127th St. West in Cortez. There will be a buffet service from 11:30 to noon. The club urges attendees to bring canned goods for local food pantries. For more information, contact Bill McGrath, 941-761-4017.
Ease your stress level with a meditation session at the Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, on Saturday, Jan. 16, at 11 a.m. It’s free. Call the library at 778-6341 for more information.
It’s a mad science world The Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, presents “S.T.E.A.M. with Mad Science: Fire and Ice” on Saturday, Jan. 16, at 2 p.m. This group makes science fun, and kids can witness experiments first-hand. Call 6778-6341 for more information.
First Soiree of the year
Beach cleanup Sunday
Come and warm up with friends for Community Connections’ first Soiree of 2016 from 6 to 8 p.m. on Friday, Jan. 15, at The Center, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria. Lyndon Smith, will speak about fire safety in the home. As usual, bring munchies and sippies, and let Sissy Quinn know by e-mailing sissy@ amiptconnections.com.
The Reef Medics Foundation, a newly formed group of citizens interested in saving the Gulf Coast and its reef system, is holding a quarterly beach cleanup on Sunday, Jan. 17, starting at 10 a.m. The location of the cleanup is on the Gulf beaches from Magnolia Avenue up to the seawall near Coconut Avenue, in the city of Anna Maria. Hot dogs and water will be provided to volunteers. The Reef Medics Foundation has adopted that portion of beach for two years and will be cleaning it every three months. It also is active in
Lecture on housing the needy Patti Durham will talk about the work Habitat for Humanity is doing in
JANUARY 13, 2016
Democrats compare candidates
Computer expert Danielle Wallace will speak on the iPad, also known as a tablet, and how to use it at the Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach on Tuesday, Jan. 19, at 3 p.m.. Bring your iPad and learn how to make it do things you never knew it could. Call 778-6341 for information.
Toys at sea discussed Local toy collector Vic Reiling speaks on American toys at sea on Wednesday, Jan. 20, at 3 p.m. at the Florida Maritime Museum, 4415 119th St. W., Cortez. Reiling will touch on the history of toy making and the context in which they were created, as well as some contemporary toys that Reiling designed. The lecture is free and so is parking.
Inquiring Minds is back Inquiring Minds meets each Tuesday from 4 to 5:30 p.m. at Gloria Dei Church, 6608 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. It is a cross-denominational religious study group that includes a 30-minute video presentation followed by discussion. The approach is academic, not devotional. All are welcome. There is no charge. Everyone has an opportunity to think, to learn, and to talk. Inquiring Minds is inspired by Anna Maria’s All Island Denominations. To receive weekly subject notification send e-mail toamibible@aol.com.
Get to know our feathered friends Dancing at Sandpiper The Manatee County Audubon Society is offering bird identification classes on Jan. 18, 20, 25, 27 and 18. Each class runs from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., and classes will be held at the Hope Lutheran Church, 4635 26th St. W., Bradenton. The course will identify approximately 100 species of birds, and there will be two field trips beginning at 7 a.m. on Jan. 23 and 30. The fee is $50 per person plus an Audubon Society family membership fee for 2016 of $20. To participate, contact Steve Black at 941-376-0110 or sblack4823@gmail. com (best choice) or Mike Barnes at 586-246-4105 or email ncndmike@ comcast.net.
Irish Ceili and set dancing sessions will be held on Wednesdays, from 1 to 3 p.m. through the end of March at the Sandpiper Mobile Resort, 2601 Gulf Drive, Bradenton Beach. Beginners are welcome and there is no charge to attend, although donations pay for the musicians. For more information, contact Judy at 941-779-1416.
Mana-Tweens discuss book The Mana-Tweens Book Club discusses a book at the Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, on Wednesday, Jan. 20, at 6 p.m. This club requires pre-registration. Call 778-6341 for more information.
JANUARY 13, 2016
FUN IN THE SUN
Across 1 Waterlogged lowlands 5 Iditarod, e.g. 9 Talmudic scholar 14 Bountiful place? 15 Tel Aviv airline 16 Wee hr. 17 *Place-setting piece 19 Stunned 20 Fenway Park and Wrigley Field 21 Sweet liqueurs 22 She, in San Remo 23 “Uptown Girl” songwriter 24 “Cats” monogram 27 *Inviolable, as rules 32 Early Talmudic scholar 34 Need to pay 35 Back in the day 36 Morning TV host replaced by Michael 37 Apr. addressee 38 Roper’s target
Answers to 01-06-16 Crossword Puzzle.
39 __ upswing 40 London’s Virgin __ Records 41 Raises an auction paddle for 42 *Rough-and-tumble 45 Heavy wts. 46 God of Spain 47 Lamb or Bacon, e.g.: Abbr. 49 Sporty Fords 52 Marriott rival 56 Speedy 57 *Statistical graph image 58 Start of a valentine message 59 S.A. country on the Pacific 60 Mezzanine, e.g. 61 Like Venus, to Serena 62 “__ Mommy kissing ... “ 63 River of Spain
Down 1 Hubbub 2 Californie, par exemple 3 “The Lion King” lion 4 Protect from light 5 Firm no 6 10-time Gold Glove winner Roberto 7 National rentals 8 Deer family member 9 Laughed heartily 10 Type of cake made with egg whites 11 Roof support 12 When combined with 50-Down, this puzzle’s game 13 Babysitters’ challenges 18 Sink clutter 21 Ice cream parlor order 23 Shark flick 24 Beat 25 Tuscan city 26 “Pomp and Circumstance” composer 28 Greek column style 29 Existential woe 30 Offspring 31 Babysitters, often 33 Diamond smack 37 Controversial radio host 38 Coke Zero rival 40 Hall of Famer Slaughter 41 Sunday shopping restriction 43 One pulling your leg 44 Liqueur in a B-52 cocktail
48 __ cuisine 49 The Andrews Sisters, e.g. 50 See 12-Down ... and a word that can follow the
THE SUN
ends of the answers to starred clues 51 Apple MP3 player 52 Jiffies 53 Windy City paper
27
54 Partner of out 55 Homebound sleuth Wolfe 57 “__ Mir Bist Du Schoen”: Andrews Sisters hit
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Rudacille recertified Local attorney Scott E. Rudacille, of the law firm of Blalock Walters, P.A ., has earned board recertification in City, County and Local Government from The Florida Bar. Rudacille has been board certified since 2010 and is one of only 251 attorneys
certified in city, county and local government in Florida. Rudacille practices in the areas of local government, land Rudacille use and real estate law. He serves as counsel to a wide variety of
local government entities, including municipal, school district, community development district and interlocal government. He also represents private clients in all aspects of the permitting and development process.
JANUARY 13, 2016
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Cities vying for planner’s services Anna Maria and Bradenton Beach are now competing for a planner. BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
BRADENTON BEACH – City Planner Alan Garrett is in high demand and it appears he has a decision to make. On Thursday, Jan. 7, the Bradenton Beach City Commission agreed to try to retain Garrett as the city’s contracted planner. Mayor Bill Shearon was authorized to negotiate with Garrett, based on the commission’s preferred terms of him working 24 hours per week, for approximately $65 an hour, for, with no additional benefits. Working on a renewable contract signed in June 2012, Garrett currently spends two days week at Bradenton Beach City Hall, working six hour a day and earning $50 per hour for general office time and $90 an hour when attending city meetings. The push to retain Garrett was prompted by Mayor Dan Murphy and the Anna Maria City Commis-
sion offering him a new contract last month that would double his workload from 12 hours to 24 hours per week, working six hours a day Monday through Thursday. On Dec. 17, Anna Maria Commissioners approved a five-year contract to take effect Jan. 1, and pay Garrett $65 an hour for regular planning services and office hours and $130 an hour for attending meetings. According to Shearon and Anna Maria Commission Chair Doug Copeland, that contract has not been signed by Garrett. Garrett has provided Anna Maria with planning services for the past 10 years. He has provided similar services in Bradenton Beach for the past three and a half years, working two days a week in each city, and sometimes attending meetings in both cities on the same day. He assists with land use issues, site plan reviews and the creation and revision of development-related codes and ordinances. When Garrett informed Shearon of the Anna Maria offer, the Bradenton Beach Commission had just begun
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reviewing the revised Land Development Code, with the implementation of the quality of life ordinance also looming.
week at just under $65 per hour,� Gilbert wrote. “Option three is our best hope,� his memo concluded.
Three options
Commission opinions
Last week, Shearon presented the commission with three options to retain or replace Garrett, based on insight he requested from Building Official Steve Gilbert. According to Gilbert’s memo, option one called for a full-time planner at an estimated annual expense of $120,000, including benefits. Option two called for hourly planning services provided by a certified senior planner working 24 hours a week, making the standard rate of $120 to $130 an hour, which would equate to approximately $150,000 annually. The commission unanimously preferred the third option that called for increasing Garrett’s pay and work load, while simplifying his invoicing process by determining an annual figure and dividing that by 26 standard billing cycles. “Increasing the contract amount to $80,000 would cover 24 hours a
“This is a political problem. I’m not going to blindside the city of Anna Maria. A contract has been accepted by that commission and that makes this very difficult,� Shearon told the commission. Commissioners Jake Spooner, Ed Straight and Jan Vosburgh praised Garrett and expressed their desire to retain him using the third option. Commissioner Ralph Cole agreed, and asked if Garrett is contractually obligated to Bradenton Beach until June. Follow-up inquiries to Garrett produced no response. On Monday morning, Shearon said he had not spoken with Garrett yet, but would later in the day. He said any terms negotiated would require commission approval. Anna Maria Mayor Dan Murphy was out of town and unavailable for comment.
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REAL ESTATE
JANUARY 13, 2016
Mortgage rules vs. home sales T
he never ending battle between government regulation and business efficiency is alive and well within the real estate mortgage industry. The result of the latest skirmish between mortgage lenders and government bureaucrats is a slide in November’s home sales numbers. In October, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau that was created by the DoddFrank Wall Street Reform Act of 2010 took effect. The object of the act was to provide greater protection for consumers in residential loan transactions in order to protect them against ambiguous mortgage terms, much of which contributed to the housing crisis. Among other changes, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau replaced the previous forms borrowers received at the time of application and before closing on a mortgage. In addition, the rules require lenders to give borrowers the final terms of a loan at least three business days before the closing to ensure they have time to understand the terms
Castles in the Sand Louise Bolger and fees assessed in the mortgage agreement. Needless to say, this resulted in a huge learning curve for the lenders, their staff and the consumers. If there were changes to the form within the three-day window, the clock reset and a delayed closing resulted. Forget about the days when sometimes last minute details were hammered out at the closing table. The result of this is that it is taking home buyers longer to get a mortgage and longer to close. Mortgage processing firms indicate mortgages took an average of 49 days to close in November a three-day increase from October and the longest closing time since
February of 2013. According to the National Association of Realtors, sales of previously owned homes fell 10.5 percent in November 2015 compared to November 2014. This was well below the number economists expected and the sharpest since July of 2010, when sales were down because of the expiration of a home buyer tax credit. The national median home price, however, rose to $220,300, which is 6.3 percent higher than last year. As a comparison, the November closed sales for single family homes in Manatee County also were down by 12.7 percent from last year, and the median sale price was $270,000, a 14.9 percent increase. The National Association of Realtors, which represents the national real estate professionals’ community, is blaming the bulk of the November decline on closing delays caused by new federal rules implemented by the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. Although it acknowledged there is still a scarcity of
properties available, its contention is the mortgage processing delays is the primary factor. Advocates for the new rules stand by their assumption that it was a necessary step in order to avoid another housing crisis by keeping consumers fully informed. In addition, they are quick to point out that the lenders had a year to prepare for the changes and train their staff properly. In spite of this, the new rules and accompanying forms have created turmoil in the industry with a lot of back and forth as lenders, realtors and buyers try and figure it all out. Undoubtedly, this battle, like all battles, will end, and everyone will live to fight another day. Lenders will get their training and technical acts together, consumers will hopefully understand the details of their mortgage terms better and realtors, who are always in the middle, will stop pulling their hair out. Just remember these words, “We’re the government, and we’re here to help you.”
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JANUARY 13, 2016
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Rental regulations languish in limbo BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
BRADENTON BEACH – Like their predecessors, the City Commission reconfigured by the November elections remains divided on the quality of life ordinance that contains new vacation rental requirements and enforcement measures. When last Thursday’s meeting began, Commissioner Jake Spooner asked the commission to amend the agenda to include a general discussion on the ordinance adopted in early November that has not yet been implemented. Spooner had previously requested this discussion be included on the Jan. 7 agenda; and the agenda request City Attorney Ricinda Perry submitted on his behalf included a motion to approve, approve with changes or deny a proposed fee resolution she drafted. The draft resolution called for a $75 Transient Public Lodging Establishment (TPLE) license fee, plus any professional service fees required by the building department, not to exceed $400. It also called for a $50 safety inspection fee, a $50 license renewal fee, a $150 late fee, a $40 transfer fee and a $300 fee to appeal the suspension or revocation of a city-
issued TPLE license. When the city clerk presented the draft agenda to Mayor Bill Shearon for his approval in late December, he asked her to remove the fee resolution discussion. Shearon said later he did not think the commission had enough information to determine what the fee structure should be. He has asked City Planner Alan Garrett and Building Official Steve Gilbert to provide the commission with their recommendations, and he asked Garrett to help develop registration forms and address other administrative requirements.
Workshop scheduled
After discussing the ordinance in general terms Thursday night, the commission voted 3-2 in favor of scheduling a one-hour commission work session for Wednesday, Jan. 13, at noon. Spooner, Vice Mayor Ed Straight and Commissioner Ralph Cole favored the work session. Shearon and Commissioner Jan Vosburgh did not. Earlier, during general public input, former Mayor Jack Clarke asked the commission to resume work on the ordinance. He originally proposed the ordinance as an alternative to the building moratorium requested by concerned citizens in late
August. Clarke suggested Shearon was “dragging his feet” on the resolution because he preferred a moratorium. During the commission discussion, Shearon said, “The moratorium is dead and I’m a little offended with the comments made earlier that I’m dragging my feet.” Vosburgh voted against the ordinance in November and last week questioned the push to implement it. She also expressed concerns about additional fees impacting “mom and pop” rental operations. The ordinance adopted on Nov. 5 was to take effect within 30 days of adoption, or immediately upon the adoption of a fee resolution. The new licensing procedures and enforcement tools cannot be enacted until the fees are established, and Shearon wants the city to be prepared when that happens. Straight has supported the ordinance since its inception. “I understand the complications, and we are probably going to make quite a few changes, but when we started on this we felt that we could at least get the ball rolling faster than having a moratorium for six months. It seems like it’s getting bogged down,” he said.
Spooner, who was not in office when the ordinance was adopted, agreed. “I’d like to keep this moving forward,” he said. Cole also joined the commission after the ordinance was adopted. “I think we need to move it forward as soon as possible,” he said. Wednesday’s work session may provide the commission with greater insight on a potential fee structure and any concerns Garrett and Gilbert have with an ordinance that can be amended. When asked about these matters earlier in the week, Garrett and Gilbert said they were not sure how many short-term rental units are located in the cityor how the ordinance would affect multi-unit resorts or condominium complexes that contain both residences and rentals. During Thursday’s discussion, Spooner suggested contacting the county to find out how many rental units in Bradenton Beach are paying the county bed tax. Shearon suggested revisiting the ordinance provision that calls for repeat ordinance and code violators to lose their TPLE license and the ability to operate as a vacation rental in the city, which might conflict with state law.
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JANUARY 13, 2016
LONG BAR: County prevails in lawsuit FROM PAGE 12
"The client has not yet given us final directions on the issue of an appeal,” Moore said on Monday morning. When asked about the decision, County Commissioner Carol Whitmore said, “Manatee County Commissioners were sued because of the decisions that they made regarding the Long Bar Pointe project. The commissioners followed the comprehensive plan, and with the great legal counsel from our county attorney’s office, we proved that our decision was right and legal. I’m very proud of the outcome.”
Helping hands
The county was assisted by lawsuit intervenors Suncoast Waterkeeper and the Cortez-based Florida Institute for Saltwater Heritage (FISH).
Attorney Ralf Brookes represented FISH at the December hearing. “This was a very important ruling. I’m glad the court upheld these comprehensive plan policies to protect our seagrasses and our bay,” he said. “It is also important to recognize that FISH and Suncoast Waterkeeper were there to help the county uphold these policies that protect our juvenile fisheries habitat that not only help the ecology, but also hold up our economy, especially for the historic fishing village of Cortez.” In a statement posted at the FISH Website, Suncoast Waterkeeper attorney Justin Bloom, wrote, “Owners of shoreline and submerged lands have numerous protected rights, mainly access and use, but they are second to the rights of the public, which were protected here by the Manatee County
I'm glad the court upheld these comprehensive plan policies to protect our seagrasses and our bay." Ralf Brookes Attorney comprehensive plan’s policies. “While it is unlikely that this ruling will curb Carlos Beruff’s apparent desire to squeeze every penny out of ev-
ery inch of land and water for personal gain, no matter its environmental value or protected status, it will definitely allow Manatee County to continue to rely on the comprehensive plan to continue to regulate coastal development.” Cortez resident Joe Kane said, “We suspect Beruff won’t be stopped by a mere county judge. He will appeal and deal until he gets what he wants. Voters must keep the pressure on him to respect the environment.” In August, Cargor Partners VIII/ Long Bar Pointe LLLP filed a general development plan that replaces their discarded Long Bar Pointe plan. It calls for approximately 3,200 residential units and less intense commercial uses, with 61 acres set aside as a Community Development District that would help offset the developers’ initial infrastructure costs.
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JANUARY 13, 2016
parking: Puts renourishment money at risk FROM PAGE 1
local sponsor, and the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, public parking provisions must be maintained throughout the 10-year duration of the Dec. 14, 2014, agreement. Hunzeker cited a 2001 interlocal agreement between the city and county in which the city “will use its best efforts to assure the continued conditions of public access, public parking availability and the use of the shore for which state funding participation is obtained during the life of the project.” Hunzeker also cited a June 2014 draft beach access study that pointed out that although there is currently a surplus of parking spaces, a reduction of parking spaces could negatively impact the county’s funding status. The study said that because there is greater competition for beach renourishment funding, the county should maintain as strong a position as possible and that any changes to parking should be
presented to the FDEP to insure that they do not jeopardize that funding.
Seek written confirmation
Hunzeker said if the city plans to amend its parking or public access provisions during that 10-year agreement, “the county strongly suggests the city seek written confirmation from the FDEP that the adopted public access changes will have no adverse effect on the maintenance of the 100 percent grant eligibility as determined by the FDEP agreement …” He said if any change would result in a reduction of state and federal grant eligibility, the city would be responsible to repay all grant funds “attributed to the percent reduction in grant eligibility for previous projects and all future renourishment costs deemed ineligible for grant support attributed to the loss of eligibility.” Regarding the letter, Johnson said, “This is a formal reminder of the agreements that are in place.”
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Vacation rental forms available The vacation rental ordinance takes effect April 1. BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
ANNA MARIA – The registration forms and other forms now required of those who own or operate short-term vacation rentals in the city of Anna Maria can now be found at the city Website, www.cityofannamaria.com. The available documents include the vacation rental registration form, the vacation rental designation of agent form, the acceptance of designation as vacation rental agent form and the vacation rental grandfathering application. The vacation rental registration form requests a copy of the vacation rental unit’s current and active license as a transient public lodging establishment with the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulations (FDBPR). Also requested is a copy of the rental unit’s current and active certificate of registration with FDBPR for the purposes of collecting and remitting sales surtaxes, transient rental taxes and any other taxes required by law to be remitted to the Florida Department of Revenue. The registration form also asks for evidence of the vacation rental’s current and active account with the Manatee County Tax Collector for the
purpose of collecting and remitting tourist development taxes and any other taxes required to be remitted to the county tax collector. The registration process also requires an exterior site sketch of the vacation rental facility. This sketch shall show and identify all structures, pools, spas, hot tubs, fencing and use, including areas provided for off-street parking. An interior building sketch by floor is also required, showing the floor layout and identifying all bedrooms, other rooms, exits, hallways and stairways, as applicable. The city Website also contains the fee resolution that lists the fees now associated with the vacation rental ordinance that will take effect April 1. The initial registration fee is $690 per rental unit, with no additional fee charged for an initial inspection. There is a $50 fee for changing the designation of a rental agent, a $75 fee to modify the vacation rental registration, and a $225 fee if the re-inspection of a unit is required. Mayor Dan Murphy has budgeted approximately $400,000 for the implementation and enforcement of the new ordinance in year one. Next year’s annual registration fee will be determined by the budgetary needs and resources needed for the continued enforcement and application of the new regulations.
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Top real estate producers for December 2015 A Paradise Realty
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School choice window opens Parents who would like to send their enrolling ninth and 10th grade child to a school other than the one to which they are assigned for the 2016 school year may do so now through Friday, Jan. 22. The High School Choice Open Enrollment Session is the only time during the year when parents can apply to have a high school student attend a school outside their assigned zone school without giving a specified reason for the move. High School Choice applications are
available now through January 22 online at www.manateeschools.net by clicking “Hot Topics” then “School Choice”, at school sites, and at the Office of Student Assignment, located at 1400 First Ave. E. in Palmetto. For further details regarding the School District of Manatee County School Choice options, visit www.manateeschools. net and click “Hot Topics” then “School Choice” or contact the Office of Student Assignment at 708-4971.
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THE SUN
BEACH BEAT Anna Maria
1/10, battery with bodily harm, 800 block of North Shore Drive. The defendant was playing pool with the victim at a bar and then they all went home. The victim began cursing the defendant’s girlfriend, and the defendant hit him in the eye, causing it to swell.The defendant was arrested. 1/7, domestic battery, 300 block of Magnolia Avenue. The juvenile defendant hit her mother during a dispute. The mother denied any injury, but the defendant was arrested. 1/6, lost property, 700 block of North Shore Drive. The homeowner reported a trash can was missing.
Holmes Beach 12/27, non-moving traffic violation, 100 block of 52nd Street. The officer saw a man driving a motorcycle with a passenger riding backwards. When they stopped, he
heard somebody yell, “There’s a cop!” He conducted a traffic stop and spoke with the driver and the passenger, who acted extremely intoxicated. The driver stated they had just left the parking lot at 5400 Marina Drive. The driver could not provide proof of registration, so the officer issued a ticket to him and one to the passenger for riding backwards on the motorcycle. 12/29, burglary, 3300 Gulf Drive. The owner of the condominium said two television sets were stolen from the unit, which is used for weekends and vacations by the family. The owner said his son was not allowed there because of his drug use and stealing. He changed the locks, but noticed that the front door had been pried at the dead bolt. He said his son is now living on the street after failing to report to a rehabilitation program. 12/29, theft, 100 block of White Avenue on the beach. The victims’ father said a gym bag was stolen from his two sons while they were surfing. Inside the bag were two cell phones and $10 cash. The mother of the two had a tracking
JANUARY 13, 2016
device that showed the phones were still in the area. They found the phones the mother sent a message making the phones ping. They were in some bushes. The gym bag and cash were gone. 12/31, battery, 6300 block of Gulf Drive. Officers were dispatched to the scene on a report of a disturbance. They found a married couple arguing and separated them. The male was bleeding from his face and had a bruise on his arm. The man said his wife hit him and tried to leave with the car keys and she said he pushed onto the bed when she would not give him the car keys. The officers were unable to determine who was at fault so they arrested both of them. 1/1, disturbance, 600 block of Manatee Avenue. Officers responded to the address, the woman said when her boyfriend returned from watching the fireworks, they got into an argument, and he pushed her. There were no marks, and she refused to sign a complaint. The boyfriend agreed to leave for the night, and he left on foot.
Bridge Street info walk scheduled A walking tour of Bridge Street taking place at noon on Wednesday Jan. 20, will provide city residents and business owners an opportunity to learn more about the changes taking place in Bradenton Beach’s downtown business district. City Engineer Lynn Burnett will conduct the informal tour as part of her ongoing efforts to educate folks about the reasons for the recent changes and the outcomes that can be anticipated. Burnett askes interested parties to meet her at the traffic circle, located near the foot of the pier, at noon. “We’re going to walk the entire project, explain what’s happening, how it works and hopefully give people a better understanding of what we’re doing,” she said.
Obituaries Beverly J. Griffin Beverly J. Griffin,, 89, Bradenton Beach, died Jan 1, 2016. Born in New Zealand she moved to Bradenton Beach, Fla., in 1974 from Marietta, Ga., and she was an Episcopalian. Survived by stepsons, Brooks Griffin and Ted Griffin and caregiver, Linda Savattini of Sarasota, Fla. There will be no services. Brown & Sons Funeral Homes & Crematory 43rd Street Chapel in charge. Condolences to www.brownandsonsfuneral.com.
Charles Sirovy Charles Sirovy passed away from a heart attack Jan. 4, 2016 in the Blake Medical Center. Charly was born September 1933 in Hungary. He lived in Holmes Beach since 1978. He owned the Bamboo South Motel a few years ago and was now retired. He is survived by his wife, Jolanda Sirovy; his son, Charles Sirovy Jr.; and two granddaughters, Kathleen and Courtney.
City parks to be discussed A town hall meeting discussion on future city park improvements has been scheduled for Saturday, Jan. 23, at Herb Dolan Park in Bradenton Beach. The town hall discussion will be begin at 10 a.m., with senior city staff members will on hand to answer questions, garner citizen input and engage in general discussions on what can be done to enhance and better utilize the city’s recreational amenities. Herb Dolan Park is located on 26th Street North and Avenue A. JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
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ANNOUNCEMENTS THE BEST VOLUNTEER position on the island. The AMI Historical Museum needs docents and bread makers. Call Dusty at 941779-7688. 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).
AUTOMOTIVE SALES & SERVICE FOR SALE LIKE NEW 4 Seater 2014 Electric Gem Car, less than 500 miles ! $12,000 Call 941-7308589
BABY SITTER RED CROSS CERTIFIED baby sitter. Honor student. Call or text Isabel 941-5457995
BOATS: PARTS & SERVICES & SALES ISLAND BOAT SALES Needs Your BoatSeason is Here. 16 Years and Hundreds of Boats Sold. “Business On A Hand Shake.” We Also Buy Boats. Call Dave 941-228-3489 BOAT SLIPS FOR RENT. Up to 60 feet. Two minutes to Intracoastal Waterway by Cortez, Parrot Cove Marina 941-795-0088 GREAT BOAT SLIP with Lift, water, electric, 2 finger piers, Key Royale Canal Head, No Bridges. $275/ mo. Greg 410-782-9100.
CARPET CLEANING QUALITY COUNTS. CARPET cleaning. Upholstery cleaning. Tile & grout cleaning. Island's favorite cleaner. Manatee Chamber Member. Great price/free estimates. Call 941-7561082
CLEANING SERVICE C & T HOUSEKEEPING. For all your cleaning needs. Free Estimates. Reasonable rates. Senior discount. References available. Call 941-9622512
Call us today! 941-778-3986
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 A CLEAN NEST – Home cleaning service – safe, reliable, satisfaction guaranteed. Flat rate pricing – www.ACleanNest.com Call 941-777-2975
COMMERCIAL SALES/ LEASES/RENTALS ANNA MARIA CITY Gulf Drive Frontage Existing well known Restaurant Busn, Equip & Good will for sale $299,000 Call Alan Galletto, Island Real Estate 941-2322216 RESTAURANT/OFFICE/ RETAIL 1113 sf Kitchen Equipment include Gulf Drive Bradenton Beach $495,000 Call Alan Galletto Island Real Estate 941-232-2216
FURNITURE CUSTOM COASTAL FURNITURE & CABINETS by Frankie Z. ebay store. Call 941-726-1482. 10015 Cortez Rd (corner of 101st) frankiezaff@yahoo.com
GARAGE, MOVING, RUMMAGE & YARD SALES SALE NIKI’S GIFT & ANTIQUE SHOP 5351 Gulf Dr, Holmes Beach. All Sterling Jewelry 10% to 50% off. Select Gifts, Antiques, Books, Miniatures, Pirate Signs, Bric-Brac, Jewelry, Vintage clothing, Orientals, Much More 30% to 80% off. Fabulous Scented Soaps, New cloths from India, Bathing suit Department. Open 7 days 9:30am-5pm. ROSER THRIFT SHOP and ANNEX: Open 9:30 am. – 2 pm. Tuesday, Thursday and Friday, 10am.-1pm Saturday. Donations accepted 9-11a.m. Wednesdays 511 Pine Ave., Anna Maria 941-779-2733 GARAGE SALE: SATURDAY, JANUARY 16, 9-4: 205 Sycamore, Anna Maria. Made permanent move. Offering large portions of two households, including dining set, sleeper sofa, occasional tables, lamps, some antiques and much more.
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
GIFT SHOP on AMI. Part-Time Position. Retiree’s welcome. Call 813-409-7540
HOME IMPROVEMENTS TILE! TILE! TILE! All variations of tile supplied and installed. Quality workmanship. Prompt, reliable, many Island references. Free estimates. Neil 941-726-3077
BARTENDER-PART TIME Apply @ Bortell’s 10002 Gulf Dr. Anna Maria. Any Day after 1:00
RENOVATION SPECALIST ALL carpentry repairs, Wash Family Construction, locally owned and operated CBC 1258250 Call 941-725-0073.
FULL TIME, YEAR ROUND Sous Chef position available. Great hours, competitive salary, paid vacation. Please reply to: amhodin@ aol.com for consideration.
KERN CONSTRUCTION NEW Homes & Remodel. Design/Build. Since 1968. License # CRC1327296. Call Jerry Kern 941-5042222 www.kernconstructioninc.com
PART-TIME FRONT DESK available at Busy Fitness Center. Some Saturdays required. Call 941-778-5200 or email islandfitness@ hotmail.com
“HONEY DO" HOME Repairs & Handyman Services. 35 yrs experience. Painting, drywall, tile, woodwork. All tasks. Call 941-896-5256 or 941-807-5256 www.honeydohomerepairinc.com
THE SUN
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. HANDYMAN. RETIRED ENGINEER. Free estimates. “No job too Small”. Repairs, replacements, improvements, wall TV’s, shelves, cabinets, calking etc. Call Jim 941-448-7806 GET’R DONE DRYWALL, INC Specializing in Remodels & Repairs. Island Resident for 18 years. Call Neil Cell 941-962-1194. KITCHEN REFACING AND CABINETRY – Crown molding. Trim. 20+ yrs. experience. No middle man. Local, licensed & insured. www.NewFaceCabinets.com. Call 941-713-0661
INTERIOR DESIGN ANDREW ZAFFINA DESIGN www.AndrewZaffinaDesign.com Creating Fresh Interior & Exterior Spaces Call 941-725-9404
LANDSCAPING & LAWN CARE STRAIGHT SHOT LANDSCAPING. Save water, gas, maintenance fees and the environment! Shell your yard. $50/yd installed. Call Shark Mark 941-301-6067 R. GAROFALO’S Interlocking brick pavers, driveways, patios, pool decks. Free estimates. Licensed & Insured. Call Rafael 941-778-4823 or Veronik 941-526-7941 SHELL DELIVERED AND spread $50/yd. Hauling all kinds of gravel, mulch, top soil with free estimates. Call Larry at 941-795-7775, "shell phone" 941-720-0770
LOST & FOUND FOUND BERNAFON CN9 N Hearing Aid for the right ear at Ace Hardware Store on Wed, Nov 18. 3352 East Bay Dr, Holmes Beach or Call 941-778-0999
ROMI IS A 10 year old female black and white, long fluffy haired Manx cat (bob tailed). She has a collar and is micro chipped. She was last seen near Jacaranda and Alamandra on the North end of Anna Maria Island. Romi is an indoor cat. Reward offered. Please contact Ana at 813417-3522 MISSING BLACK AND WHITE male cat. Lucky is deaf and 15 years old. He was last seen on 2nd St in Bradenton Beach where he has lived outdoors for 4 years. Reward. Heartbroken. 941-730-7052 LOST CAT “FIDO” He adopted us 16 years ago. His turf is in the area of 5392 Gulf Dr. near Time Saver and Niki’s . Has collar with a bell, chipped by Animal Clinic. If found please call 941-518-6329. FOUND EYEGLASSES on beach in Holmes Beach city limits, early morning of November 2. Call 941-7784754 LOST MERCEDES KEY FOB with silver swan attached to ring. Call 863-207-1328 $25 REWARD
MOVING & STORAGE MARTIN’S MOVING YOUR Island movers! Offering dependable, competitive rates. No hidden costs. 941-809-5777. TWO MEN and a TRUCK. Movers who care. Local and Long distance. www. twomen.com Call 941-3591904. We sell boxes!
PAINTING & WALLCOVERING PAINT! PAINT! AND MORE 28 years of experienced interior/exterior custom painting. Pressure cleaning, drywall repairs and texture finishes. Many Island references. Please call Neil for free estimates. 941-812-0507 WALY PRECISION PAINTING custom painting, pressure washing, commercial/residential, interior/exterior, drywall/stucco, Licensed & insured. Call 941-448-1928 or 941-580-4005 www. WalyPrecisionPainting.com
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“WIZARD OF WALLS” Established 1980 Prompt quality service. Paperhanging/removal Faux finishes. Interior painting. Mary Bell 941794-0455
PETS ARE YOU WANTING to vacation and not worry if your pet is lonely. I will overnight in your home, so your animal can stay in his own environment. Home Sitting is also available. Great References. Call Mary 941-405-2496
POOL SERVICES FOUR SEASONS POOL SERVICE. AMI & West Bradenton. Certified Pool Operator. Residential/commercial. Chemical Service Licensed & Insured. Call Dennis Clark 941-737-5657 COLE'S TROPICAL POOL SERVICE Call Cole Bowers for all your pool maintenance needs! Affordable and Dependable!! 941-7131893
REAL ESTATE HOMES & CONDOS FOR SALE LOOKING TO BUY or SALE a home? Contact Darcie Duncan for a personal approach to your real estate needs that will always make you feel at home. Discover the Duncan Difference. 941-779-0304
BRADENTON COUNTRY CLUB 3BR/2BA home with upgrades on the Golf Course. Rarely available a must see! $399,000. Brenda Boyd May Boyd Realty 941-730-8589. LIFE IS GOOD LIVING on beautiful Anna Maria island a short walk to award winning beaches. 3BR/2.5BA elevated home with fenced free form pool and spa and 4 car garage. Karen Fineout Wagner realty 941518-3682 $749,000
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REAL ESTATE HOMES & CONDOS FOR SALE
REAL ESTATE: OPEN HOUSE
FOR SALE 1 BLOCK from Beach. 1/2 of duplex. 2BR/1BA concrete block. New private deck, plumbing & electrical. Nicely furnished. Good Rental History. Located at 205 71st St $298,000. Brokers protected 813892-3690
PRICE REDUCTION! OPEN SUNDAYS from 1 to 3! Beautiful 2BR/2BA, 1377sf condo in Westbay Point & Moorings. Now offered at $349,900 by Meshia Richardson, Realtor, Exit Sunset Realty Inc. 941-448-6299 or 941-896-9991
504 72ND St. Holmes Beach, 3BR/2BA DEEP water canal front home with 100 ft Dock and 20000 lb Boat Lift. Mary Jo Pribe 941-716-4569. Atchley International Realty. NEED PARKING? BAYFRONT Home, Pool/Spa/ Dock/Seawall with 3 car garage holds 5-6 vehicles, 6 in the driveway! Call/Text/Email Annette Forsberg 941-404-5460 AnnetteForsberg@gmail. com(Keller Williams On The Water)
Call us today! 941-778-3986
RENTALS: ANNUAL 1BR/1BA in Triplex near St. Stephen’s / Manatee High. Water, Sewer, Trash, electric & Gas incl. . $825/ mo, $825 security. Credit & Background required. Available Now. Ask for Ed. DUNCAN REAL ESTATE 941-779-0304 www. teamduncan.com ANNUAL RENTAL and CONDOMINIUM Association management serviced by (2) offices open 7 days a week! Contact junew@ islandreal.com – 941-3451295 - Island Real Estate of Anna Maria Island, Inc.
ANNUAL 2BR/2BA Holmes Beach. Tile through-out. Washer/Dryer hookups, double carport, large storage room. Steps to Gulf with view $1500/mo plus utilities. First, last and security Call 941-778-3427 ANNUAL RENTAL- Anna Maria, 3BR/2BA home with garage. $2,200/mo. Fran Maxon Real Estate 941-778-2307. HOLMES BEACH 2BR/1BA Duplex. 900+ sq.ft. Nice & Clean. New appliances, W/D hookups. $1400/ mo + utilities. First, Last & one month security. Credit check. 1 year lease. Call 941-809-2488 ANNUAL UNFURNISHED 2BR/2BA in Shell Point; Holmes Beach. W/D, carport, storage room, community pool & tennis court. Call A Paradise 941778-4800
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JANUARY 13, 2016
1BR/1BA HOLMES BEACH Available immediately. Steps to Beach. Use of Washer/Dryer. Unfurnished $925/mo plus utilities. First, Last & Security Deposit. Call 847-769-6175
RENTALS: SEASONAL & VACATION TIFFANY PLACE Gulf Front Condo for Rent Incredible views from living room and master bedroom. 2BR/2BA Green Real Estate Call 941-778-0455 ANNA MARIA ISLAND, Fl Condos. Pool beach access, fully equipped $650-$800/ wk Redekercondos.com 941-704-7525 or 941-7781915
WILLKOMMEN AUF AMI! Besuchen Sie Island Real Estate in einem unserer Inselbüros (6101 Marina Drive oder 419 Pine Ave) mit unserem deutschsprachigen Reservierungsservice und erhalten ein freies Island Real Estate Baseball Cap! Wir geben Ihnen gerne mehr Auskunft über unsere 250 ausgewählte Feriendomizile für Ihren nächsten Urlaub! RESORT 66 HOLMES BEACH Available from 2/20 to 2/27. One bedroom King Bed plus sofa bed (unit sleeps 4) $1000/wk. Call 941-778-2362
TRANSPORTATION AMI TAXI metered-on-callcards accepted. Airport: Tampa $85, Sarasota $35, Clearwater $75, Fort Meyers $150, Orlando $150. Call 800-301-4816. amitaxi4u@gmail.com, www. amitaxi.com
ROGER'S AIRPORT SERVICE. Tampa, St. Pete/ Clearwater, Sarasota/ Bradenton. Call Roger 941773-1469 ANYTIME TRANSPORTATION to all airports, appointments, shopping, etc. Tampa $60. Sarasota $30. Pets welcome. Very dependable. Reasonable rates. Contact Jeanne. 941-779-5095 ADMIRAL TOWN CAR Professional chauffeur, taxi prices! Airports (1@ $75, 10 $150 to Tampa), Appointments anywhere. Credit cards accepted. Phil 941-320-1120 admiraltowncar@gmail.com, Licensed & Insured
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