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- Named Best Florida Newspaper In Its Class -

VOL 18 No. 15

Anna Maria makes Coastal Living’s Top 10

January 24, 2018

Online voting will determine which seaside town is deemed #1 in terms of happiness. BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA – The city of Anna Maria has been named one of Coastal Living Magazine’s Top 10 America’s Happiest Seaside Towns for 2018, and online voting will determine which city is ranked number 1. This news was revealed in an email Coastal Living Senior Editor Tracey Minkin sent to Anna Maria Mayor Dan Murphy, representatives of the Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce and the Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau. “We hope you’re as thrilled to receive this advance notice of your town’s honor as we are to let you know about it,” Minkin’s email said. Coastal Living’s Top 10 list was posted online Tuesday, Jan. 23, at www.coastalliving. com/happytowns2018. Voters also will cast their ballots at this web address. Tuesday’s posting opened a two-week voting period that will produce the final rankings for the Top 10 towns and the seaside town ranked #1 in terms of happiness. Voting will continue until 5 p.m. (EST) on Tuesday, Feb. 6. Throughout

ANNA MARIE HAYDEN | SUBMITTED

Happiness is sailing at sunset on the Gulf of Mexico off Anna Maria.

SEE ANNA MARIA, PAGE 39

Firefighters recognized for outstanding service Three special awards were handed out last week.

We recognize

BY JOE HENDRICKS

a firefighter

SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

BRADENTON – Jeff Philips is West Manatee Fire Rescue’s Firefighter of the Year, Richard Losek is the Officer of the Year and William “Buddy” Bowen is the recipient of the Meritorious Service Award. Fire Chief Tom Sousa handed out these special awards and other service awards on Tuesday, Jan. 16, at the fire

and an officer of the year for the exceptional work they do.” Tom Sousa, Fire Chief

SEE AWARDS, PAGE 43

INSIDE NEWS 4 OPINION 6 SUN SURVEY 7 SEAN MURPHY 21 OUTDOORS 26-27 RESTAURANTS 32-33 REAL ESTATE 34-40 SPORTS 42

DISCOVER

cold weather comfort food in Food & Wine. 18

Anna Maria Island, Florida

Sato keeps selling the lifestyle Jason Sato is the top real estate seller in Manatee County once again. BY TOM VAUGHT SUN STAFF WRITER | tvaught@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA – For the third year in a row, Jason Sato has been the leading real estate seller in Manatee County, according to statistics logged by the Real Estate Association of Manatee and Sarasota counties. He recorded 78 transactions with 38 sales in 2017 worth $93.9 million. He also recorded the highest single sale, a beachfront home at 102 Mangrove Ave. that sold for $4.5 million. Sato is co-owner of Sato Real Estate

TOM VAUGHT | SUN

Jason Sato is again the leading real estate seller in Manatee County. at 519 Pine Ave., in Anna Maria. He said he senses a change in the market. SEE SATO, PAGE 39

TWO BOATERS have a close call with disaster off AMI. 12 VOTE for your favorites in The

Sun’s Readers’ Choice Contest. 30 The Island’s award-winning weekly newspaper www.amisun.com

THE SUN

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JANUARY 24, 2018

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JANUARY 24, 2018

Structural improvements slated for Kingfish Boat Ramp BY KRISTIN SWAIN SUN STAFF WRITER | kswain@amisun.com

HOLMES BEACH – About 600 feet of seawall are in danger of becoming unstable due to the encroachment of tree root systems at Kingfish Boat Ramp. Manatee County Environmental Program Manager Alan Lai Hipp said in a Jan. 18 email that structural issues with the seawall were discovered by an engineer during a pre-construction inspection. The issues are caused by root growth from nearby cabbage palms and an Australian pine. Pressure placed on the seawall by the roots are causing stress on the seawall cap that could cause it to crack or crumble. Though replacement of the seawall

THE SUN

Tribute to Robert Herman set Robert Herman and his partner, Casey Hoffman, began AMI Radio as a low output radio station and changed it to an Internet streaming medium. BY TOM VAUGHT SUN STAFF WRITER | tvaught@amisun.com

KRISTIN SWAIN | SUN

The root structures of several trees threaten the structural integrity of the seawall at Kingfish Boat Ramp in Holmes Beach. would be preferable, Lai Hipp said repairs are the only financially viable solution at this point. While Lai Hipp received permission from Parks and Natural Resources Department Director Charlie Hunsicker to remove the Australian pine and palm trees, he said

an effort would be made to relocate the cabbage palms if it was determined that removal of the root structure won’t cause the seawall to collapse. All trees will be evaluated by the local Audubon Society to ensure that no active bird nests are affected.

BRADENTON BEACH – There will be a Tribute to Robert Herman concert on Sunday, Jan. 28, from 1 to 5 p.m., at The Center of AMI, 407 Magnolia, Anna Maria. Herman died unexpectedly Dec. 19, 2017. Over the years, Herman strived to expose local musicians to the public, promoting the Island music that was written and performed by them. His partner, Casey Hoffman, has said she would carry on the work at AMI Radio, www.annamariaislandradio.com. There will be food, drinks, music and reminiscing at the tribute. At a gathering shortly after Herman died, many artists praised him for airing their music and giving them the confidence to perform in

FILE PHOTO

The concert celebrating the life of Bob Hermqan will be Sunday, Jan. 28. public. Food sponsors include the Ugly Grouper, Scott’s Deli, Island Time and Bridge Street Bistro. Admission is free, but contributions are welcome to help promote and preserve local music on the Island and in Manatee and Sarasota counties.

THE SUN

ISLAND NEWS

IN BRIEF

Pier funds clear first hurdle Anna Maria Mayor Dan Murphy received good news on Tuesday, Jan. 16, when he learned the House Transportation and Tourism Appropriations Subcommittee voted unanimously in favor of the city’s request for $750,000 in state funds to assist with the replacement of the city pier. The next stop for the appropriations bill, HB 3107, is the House Appropriations Committee.\ “We are anticipating that Sen. Bill Galvano (RBradenton) will bring this same bill to the Senate floor, but that’s not final yet,” Murphy said last week of the multi-step funding request.

Hazardous household waste collection Manatee County Solid Waste Department will hold its annual Island Household Waste and eScrap Collection on Saturday, Jan. 27 at Coquina Beach from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. It is free for residents and businesses may be charged. Bring in old electronics such as computers and monitors, televisions, radios, phones and more. It also collects house paint and toxic or flammable chemicals. For more information, call 942-792-8811.

Movie in the park rescheduled

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

JANUARY 24, 2018

Pier urgency questioned

The City Commission has already voted once in favor of building a pier with a 75-100-year service life expectancy. BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA – City resident Richard Bristow and Mayor Dan Murphy exchanged emails last week regarding the closure of the city pier. Bristow’s Jan. 16 email to Murphy suggested city officials are showing a lack of urgency in reopening the pier. The pier was closed in September due to damage Hurricane Irma inflicted on an aging structure already scheduled for complete rehabilitation within the next five years. The pier closure resulted in immediate and unexpected unemployment for those who worked at the pier-based restaurant and bait shop. Other businesses near the pier are also now feeling the economic impact.

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

The Anna Maria City Pier was closed in September and will remain closed until a new pier is built “As a 15-year resident and a person that frequented the city pier on a regular basis, I am appalled at the lack of urgency displayed by the city of Anna Maria in regards to repairing the pier. I was at the meeting in early December where the engineer tried to talk and was

very unimpressed. I urge the city to have an open meeting regarding the whole process and get some input from Island residents. There are a lot of unhappy people,” Bristow’s email to Murphy said. SEE PIER, PAGE 40

Pier questions answered Cold weather forced the cancellation of the city of Anna Maria’s first movie in the park last week, “Smurfs: The Lost Village.” City officials will try again this week with the Wednesday, Jan. 24, free outdoor screening of “Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade,” starring Harrison Ford and Sean Connery. The movie will be shown at City Pier Park at 7 p.m., across the street from the Anna Maria City Pier. Attendees are asked to bring their own chairs, blankets, snacks and drinks. For updates on future outdoor movie screenings, visit www.cityofannamaria.com.

Correction The overall women’s winner in the Dolphin Dash is Jennifer Rowley. The Sun had her name misspelled in the story in the Jan. 17 edition and she was not the person depicted in the photo.

A recent memo provides additional insight on the condition of the Anna Maria City Pier. BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA – The city’s engineering firm has formally responded to questions recently posed by community members about the city pier. Holmes Beach resident Nancy Deal and others asked about the condition and the proposed replacement of the pier during a Dec. 6 pier meeting. Jay Saxena, from the Ayres Associates design and engineering firm, answered those questions in a memo later sent to City Clerk LeAnne Addy. The memo notes soil samples from the pier area would be taken and that has since occurred.

“The soil drilling data obtained by the geotechnical engineer shall provide a clearer picture of the subsurface soils,” the memo states. Commissioners are expected to so render a final decision on Ayres’ previous recommendation to use concrete pilings and composite decking for the construction of a new pier. The pier was closed in September and will remain closed until a new pier is built.

PIER Q&A

IS IT POSSIBLE TO REMEDIATE ONLY THOSE PILINGS THAT HAVE FAILED?

It is possible to remediate only those piles that have failed, but an evaluation of the entire structure along with its adherence to current code requirements is necessary.

IS THERE A VIDEO TAKEN BY DIVERS OF THE DAMAGE? There is not video from divers.

WAS THE DAMAGE ASSESSMENT BASED UPON ENGINEERING JUDGEMENT OR ON PHYSICAL EVIDENCE?

Here are some of the questions and answers, presented verbatim, from the Ayres memo:

Both structural assessment reports were based on physical evidence and engineering judgement.

HAVE ALL THE PILINGS FAILED OR JUST SOME?

HAVE PILINGS FAILED ABOVE AND/ OR BELOW THE WATER LINE?

All the piles have not visibly failed but many have. Current soil conditions along with current design code requirements will be evaluated.

Pilings have failed or have been found structurally deficient above and below the water line. SEE QUESTIONS, PAGE 41

www.amisun.com

JANUARY 24, 2018

THE SUN

Center reports happy financial ending to 2017 BY KRISTIN SWAIN SUN STAFF WRITER | kswain@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA – A balanced budget may soon be in the future for The Center of Anna Maria Island. In a Jan. 21 press release, Executive Director Kristen Lessig announced the Center surpassed its fundraising goal for the first half of the 2017-18 fiscal year. The organization raised $265,468.64 between July 1 and Dec. 31, pushing the nonprofit nearly $100,000 over its fundraising goal of $166,750. “The Center is excited to have surpassed our fundraising goal by nearly $100,000 and we’re on track to meet our $300,000 fundraising goal for June 30, having raised $265,268.64 between July and December,” Lessig said in the press release. “With increased program revenue and an even deeper decrease in expenses, we are confident the Center will not only meet a balanced budget, but be able to set aside funding in reserves. With record enrollment and partici-

pation in 2017, and even in 2018, we are grateful that the community finds value in the Center.” Lessig reported increases in memberships with 3,318 members versus 1,774 members during the same period the year before. Senior memberships have increased by 85 percent from 20 to 105. Family memberships are showing a 53 percent increase from 16 to 69 memberships. Snow bird membership numbers are up from 71 active members as of Jan. 18, 2017 to 174 active members as of Jan. 18, 2018. The press release lists a 20.5 percent decrease in direct expenses at the end of 2017, down from $205,292 in 2016 to $163,169 in 2017. Program income was up from $174,264 in 2016 to $206,156 in 2017, an 18 percent increase. Fixed cost and indirect expenses were down from $205,715 in 2016 to $180,594 in 2017. No copies of financial documentation were provided.

FILE PHOTO

The Preston House in Anna Maria was on the 2017 Tour of Homes.w

Tour of Homes set for March The 25th annual Anna Maria Island Tour of Homes is set to return for one day only, March 17. The tour will feature five new and recently renovated homes, each with distinctive architecture, interiors and views. This year’s boutique will be hosted at The Center of Anna Maria Island, 407

Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria. In addition to original art work, crafts, and other goods, the boutique also will be a stop for food and the quilt raffle, featuring a unique quilt created by the Eyeland Needlers. Tickets for the event are $30 with homes open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tickets can be purchased

at the Center, by calling 941-778-1908 or online at www.centerami.org. To volunteer for the event, contact Executive Director Kristen Lessig at kristenl@ centerami.org. Anyone interested in adding their home to the tour should contact Diane Phinney at dianephinney@hotmail. com.

THE SUN

OPINION

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

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JANUARY 24, 2018

EDITORIAL Some good stuff

ust when you thought there wasn’t any good news for the local fishwrap, along comes some uplifting bits of information. Just take a look at The Sun’s front page this week. First, Island native Jason Sato wins top real estate salesperson in Manatee County for 2017. Next, our local fire department honors the best of the best within its ranks, recognizing the amazing job these first-responders do year in and year out. And finally, the city of Anna Maria is included in Coastal Living Magazine’s 10 “happiest seaside towns in America.” Not a bad collection of good news for one week. Sato, whose office is on Pine Avenue, was recognized as the top real estate seller in Manatee County for the third year in a row. He grew up on the Island and after earning a college degree in business, he turned to real estate, opening Sato Real Estate with his mother, Barb. Sato knows what buyers are looking for because he has been living the dream all his life. He said he is seeing more buyers purchase homes for their own use, a good trend for the future of the Island. He also acts as an ambassador to the buyers because of his local background. Nice going Jason. West Manatee Fire Rescue also handed out its honors recently. Firefighter Jeff Phillips was named Firefighter of the Year for adapting to his new assignment with the department’s marine unit. He also works at the fire school at Manatee Technical College. Richard Losek, a 30-year veteran, was recognized as Officer of the Year for his dedication. Fire Chief Tom Sousa said Losek tries to move the department forward every day. Buddy Bowen was honored with the Meritorious Service Award for his additional work as union representative and working on health and safety issues at the department. These are people who work hard every day to make life on our Island paradise a little better. And while some may agree or disagree with the “happiest seaside town in America” designation for Anna Maria, it’s all in good fun and should be taken as such. As for the honorees in the other categories, a hearty congratulations to you and continued success. What you do enhances Anna Maria Island for everyone.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Celebrate a legacy Anna Maria Island has a great mix of culture and community. When you have the opportunity to live here, you become a part of its character. No dream is too big or too small to fit in this sandbox. The last several weeks I have felt this community come together in a very special way. My partner, Robert Herman, and I have enjoyed such a beautiful decade here. Playing and creating. Exploring and entertaining. Falling in love and building a life together. I want to offer warm thanks to those in our community who have reached out and offered their love, prayers and support during this time. Every smile and wave. So many hugs and well wishes I received after Robert's passing. I sincerely felt the love of this Island community and the connectedness we all share. Please join us in celebration of Robert's life in the fashion he would want, AMI Radio concert- style, on January 28 from 1 to 5 p.m. at The Center of Anna Maria Island, 407 Magnolia Avenue, Anna Maria. The concert will feature musical guests Mac McConnell, Chip Ragsdale, The Fungies, Thor, Koko Ray & the Keepers, DeLaran, Tangled Mangos, Memphis Rub, and Concrete Edgar. Food will be provided by Ugly Grouper, Bridge Street Bistro, Island Time Bar & Grill, Slims Place, and Scott's

Deli. Bring your own beverage. Here's to leaving a legacy on Anna Maria Island! See you out there. Casey Hoffman Bradenton

Appreciate the Center The Island, for its small size, is blessed with some great public institutions. We have our parks, the public pier, the public beach, areas for advancing art and the trollies. But our main civic institutions are the public library, public elementary school, and The Center. Educating our children at AME and providing books and programming at our library to assist in the development of a civic-minded, critical-thinking public seems worthwhile in promoting an enlightened citizenship and in enriching personal lives. The fact that these two institutions are funded by our tax dollars has been settled for years. There may be disagreements on how well the government runs public schools and whether libraries remain essential in 2018, however, these two institutions have strong support from our community and bring great value. The AME PTO and Friends of the Library deserve a lot of the credit two groups of local citizens coming together to protect and grow these island institutions. The most utilized institution on the Island, that invites all citizens

Take The Sun Survey on Page 7. no matter what age, race, religion, gender, disability, or financial position - meaning it touches the entire community - does not receive the support it deserves financially or otherwise. The Center - the community’s gathering space - is the one area on the Island that serves educational, recreational, nutritional, and social needs. It is a second home for our youth and teens. It is the one institution that enhances the well-being of all people that enter its doors or steps on its fields. It also serves as a post hurricane shelter. The most recent audit initiated and performed by local governments came back with strong and clean results. This is not a request for donations. This is just a clarion call to the community to come together, volunteer, join, visit and enjoy this precious institution. Go see the renovated and updated facilities. Go say “hello” to the staff - they are your neighbors and they work hard for all of us. Go and you will see a busy institution where children are laughing, teens are playing and adults are enriching their lives. In a world where institutions seem to be eroding daily, our community should value our common interests and appreciate those things that can unite us today and for posterity. Blair Schlossberg Holmes Beach

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JANUARY 24, 2018

THE SUN

ON THE AGENDA

THE SUN SURVEY

PREVIOUS QUESTION: Do you favor Florida Sen. Greg Steube's proposal to

prevent local governments from regulating tree removal and trimming and giving that authority to the state?

76%

No. This is just another attempt to scuttle cities' home rule powers.

ANNA MARIA 10005 GULF DRIVE.

Jan. 25: 6 p.m., City Commission meeting. Feb. 8: 6 p.m., City Commission special meeting. For information, call 7086130.

BRADENTON BEACH 107 GULF DRIVE N.

Jan. 24: 1 p.m., Planning and Zoning Board meeting. Feb. 7: 9:30 a.m., CRA meeting. Feb. 7: 11 a.m., Pier team meeting.

Feb. 7: 3 p.m., Scenic WAVES meeting. For information, call 7781005. Holmes Beach 5801 MARINA DRIVE.

Feb. 5: 1 p.m., Ad-hoc form of government committee meeting. Feb. 7: 10 a.m., Parks and Beautification Committee meeting. Feb. 7: 6 p.m., Planning Commission meeting. For information, call 7085800.

MARK YOUR CALENDAR NOTE: EVENTS ARE FREE UNLESS INDICATED.

24%

Yes. Landowners should have the right to develop their property as they see fit.

WEDNESDAY JANUARY 24

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

THIS WEEK’S SURVEY Do you agree with the recent media designation of Anna Maria City as one of the 10 happiest seaside towns in America?

• Yes of course. If you're not happy here you might want to check your pulse. • No, and I'll punch anybody who disagrees with me. • Yes, but I'm even happier when I'm in my happy place (my neighborhood watering hole.)

To vote, go to www.amisun.com or scan this code to vote by smartphone. LIKE us on our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/AnnaMariaIslandSun View The Sun’s online edition at www.issuu.com/AnnaMariaIslandSun

The Anna Maria Island Sun staff Publishers Mike Field Maggie Field Editor/CEO Mike Field Layout Ricardo Fonseca Reporters Cindy Lane Tom Vaught Joe Hendricks

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

Classified ads Bob Alexander Graphics Elaine Stroili Ricardo Fonseca Digital/Social Media Editor Cindy Lane

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

Roser-Robics chair-based exercise class, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, 9:30 a.m. Beach Market, Coquina Beach, 2650 Gulf Drive S., Bradenton Beach, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. For information call 941-518-4431. The New Tax Law: Possible Impacts seminar, The Paradise Center, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, second floor, 10:30 a.m. Reserve to maryannbrady@ theparadisecenter.org or 941-383-6493. Gentle chair yoga, Anna Maria Island Art League, 5312 Holmes Blvd., Holmes Beach, noon. Meet the Author with Cathy Slusser, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 12:30 p.m. When Science Fails Us, presented by Jim Vartuli, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 1 p.m. Shanty Singers, Florida Maritime Museum, 4415 119th St. W., Cortez, 2 to 4 p.m. Chess Club, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 4 p.m. AMI Chamber January Business Card Exchange and Trolley Grant Awards, Waterline Marina Resort and Beach Club, 5325 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 5 p.m., $5 for members or $10 for prospective members.

THURSDAY Accounting John Reitz

JANUARY 25

Veteran services information, Island Branch Library,

5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 9 a.m. Painting with a fish, The Folk School at Florida Maritime Museum, 4415 119th St. W., Cortez, 9:30 a.m., $35. Quilting, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m. Zumba and mat pilates for seniors, The Paradise Center, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, second floor, 10 a.m., $10 per class. Reserve to maryannbrady@ theparadisecenter.org or 941-383-6493. Meet the Author with Patricia Gussin, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 1 p.m. ACBL open pairs duplicate bridge, The Paradise Center, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, second floor, 1 p.m., $11 per game with coffee and snacks provided. Reserve to 941-216-9600 or sjbrill@aol.com. The Boston Light Keeper lecture by Sally Snowman, Friends Lecture and Travel Series, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2 p.m. Jam in the Sand, Anna Maria Island Beach Café, 4000 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, 5 to 8 p.m. Bingo, Annie Silver Community Center, 103 23rd St. N., Bradenton Beach, 6 to 9 p.m.

FRIDAY

JANUARY 26

Reiki II, The Paradise Center, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, second floor, 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., $10 per class. Reserve to marySEE CALENDAR, PAGE 8

www.amisun.com

THE SUN

MARK YOUR CALENDAR From Page 7

annbrady@theparadisecenter.org or 941-3836493. Roser-Robics chair-based exercise class, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, 9:30 a.m. Forty Carrots, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m. Intermediate bridge session, The Paradise Center, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, 2nd Floor, Longboat Key, 10:30 to 11:30 a.m., $10, includes coffee and cookies. Reserve to maryannbrady@theparadisecenter.org or 941-383-6493. Mahjong, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 11:30 a.m. Senior Adventures monthly book sale and pot luck lunch, Annie Silver Community Center, 103 23rd St. N., Bradenton Beach, noon. Reserve to Kaye Bell, 941-538-0945. Lunch and Learn: Everything You Need to Know About Long-Term Care, The Paradise Center, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, second floor, 12:30 p.m., $15 per person with lunch provided. Reserve to maryannbrady@theparadisecenter.org or 941-3836493. Art History Workshop with Susan Fader, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2 p.m. Reserve to 941-7786341.

Sunset drum circle, Manatee Public Beach, 4000 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, 5 to 8 p.m. Bingo, The Center of Anna Maria Island, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria, 6 to 8 p.m., $10 for 10 cards.

SATURDAY JANUARY 27

Manatee Audubon Society Birding Tour, Perico Preserve, 11700 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton, 8:30 a.m. Reserve to 941-7484501 ext. 6039. CPR Training, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 9 a.m. Reserve to 941-778-6341. Naturalist-led wagon tour, Robinson Preserve, 1704 99th St. NW, Bradenton, 9 a.m. Cast net making demonstration and throwing class, The Folk School at Florida Maritime Museum, 4415 119th St. W., Cortez, 9 a.m., $35. Healing meditation, Anna Maria Island Art League, 5312 Holmes Blvd., Holmes Beach, 11 a.m. ACBL open pairs duplicate bridge, The Paradise Center, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, second floor, 1 p.m., $11 per game with coffee and snacks provided. Reserve to 941-216-9600 or sjbrill@aol.com. Music on the Porch, Florida Maritime Museum, 4415 119th St. W., Cortez, 2 p.m.

SUNDAY JANUARY 28

Beach Market, Coquina Beach, 2650 Gulf Drive S., Bradenton Beach, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. For information call 941-518-4431. Peace, Love and Paradise Gala benefitting The Paradise Center, Longboat Key Club, Harbourside Ballroom, 3000 Harbourside Drive, Longboat Key, 5:30 p.m., $125 per person or $300 for two patron level tickets. Reserve to 941-383-6493 or maryannbrady@ theparadisecenter.org.

MONDAY JANUARY 29

The Swiss Chocolate Diet with Mary Bray, 6-week program, The Paradise Center, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, second floor, 10:30 a.m. to noon, $100 for six sessions. Reserve to maryannbrady@theparadisecenter.org or 941-383-6493. Social bridge games, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, noon. Create a Crafterpiece, The Paradise Center, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, 2nd Floor, Longboat Key, 12:30 p.m., $15. Reserve to maryannbrady@theparadisecenter.org or 941-383-6493.

TUESDAY JANUARY 30

Manatee Audubon Society Birding Tour, Robinson Preserve, 1704 99th St. NW, Bradenton, 8 a.m. Reserve to manateeaudu-

JANUARY 24, 2018

bon@gmail.com. Preschool storytime: Scales and All, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, 10 a.m. Cheese making, The Folk School at Florida Maritime Museum, 4415 119th St. W., Cortez, 10 a.m., $35. Mahjong for beginners, The Paradise Center, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, 2nd Floor, Longboat Key, 12:30 to 2:30 p.m., $10, snacks are provided. ACBL open pairs duplicate bridge, The Paradise Center, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, second floor, 1 p.m., $11 per game with coffee and snacks provided. Reserve to 941-216-9600 or sjbrill@aol.com. Florida Maritime Museum lecture, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2 p.m.

WEDNESDAY JANUARY 31

Roser-Robics chair-based exercise class, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, 9:30 a.m. Beach Market, Coquina Beach, 2650 Gulf Drive S., Bradenton Beach, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. For information call 941-518-4431. Memoir Writing, The Folk School at Florida Maritime Museum, 4415 119th St. W., Cortez, 10 a.m., $20. Gentle chair yoga, Anna Maria Island Art League, 5312 Holmes Blvd., Holmes Beach, noon.

www.amisun.com

JANUARY 24, 2018

THE SUN

36th ANNUAL

CORTEZ I AL C R E M M Co

FISHING FESTIVAL FEB. 17&18 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Admission $4

Proceeds benefit F.I.S.H. Preserve

Kids 12 & under FREE

The festival is located at the East end of town adjacent to the Florida Maritime Museum on 119th St. W. to the Bay. Off site FREE parking is available at: • G.T. Bray Park (with $3.00 round trip shuttle to Cortez) 5502 33rd Ave Dr W., 34209 -- turn east off 59th St onto 33rd Ave Dr • Coquina Beach (with $3.00 round trip shuttle to Cortez) • One block east of the village, off Cortez Road (5-minute walk)

GREAT FOOD AND LIVE MUSIC COMMUNITY DISPLAYS EXPANDED KIDS AREA LARGER PARKING AREA NAUTICAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL ART

FOR INFORMATION CALL 941-254-4972 WWW.CORTEZ-FISH.ORG

Member FDIC

THE SUN

www.amisun.com

JANUARY 24, 2018

OVERLOOKING ANNA MARIA SOUND

Live the

Lifestyle at One Particular Harbour

A nna Mari â€“ Voted To a Island p 10 Beach

Marina, Dining & Enter tainment

Sunset V ie

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JANUARY 24, 2018

THE SUN

City to reimburse city attorney The commission majority doesn’t think the city attorney should bear the cost of defending herself from a Florida Bar complaint filed in response to her efforts to protect the city. BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

BRADENTON BEACH – The insufficient Florida Bar complaint John Metz filed against City Attorney Ricinda Perry last summer is going to cost city taxpayers. Last week, the City Commission voted 4-1 in favor of reimbursing Perry up to $5,000 for the legal expenses she incurred in defense of Metz’s complaint. Randy White was the only commissioner to oppose the reimbursement. In his complaint, Metz alleged Perry plagiarized The Florida Planning Officials Handbook in a July 28 email she sent to him and other planning board members cautioning them adhere to quasi-judicial hearing procedures and the Florida Sunshine Law. Perry’s email was prompted by concerns raised about excessive requests and demands Metz and other Planning and Zoning Board members made to property owner Fred Bartizal when reviewing his efforts to bring his Dockside Bar into compliance with city code. “I conclude that there is insufficient evidence that Ms. Perry has violated any of the rules adopted by the Supreme Court of Florida which govern attorney discipline,” Florida Bar Executive Director John Hark-

Former Planning and Zoning Board member John Metz has subjected the city and its representatives to tens of thousands of dollars in legal fees. City Commissioner Randy White does not think City Attorney Ricinda Perry should be reimbursed for her legal expenses. ness wrote in November. In December, Mayor John Chappie suggested the city reimburse Perry for the legal costs she incurred and the time she spent defending Metz’s allegations. Perry said she appreciated the commission’s offer, but did not want to subject the city and its taxpayers to those expenses. Commissioner Jake Spooner requested the matter be revisited during the commission’s Jan. 18 meeting. “I feel that she should be reimbursed because she was doing her duty to protect the city,” Spooner said. “I agree with you totally. It was done as part of the normal procedures for our attorney. It would be the same thing if it was our police department or public works people,” Chappie said. “It’s unfortunate that Mr. Metz chose these actions, and it’s not the first time Mr. Metz has cost taxpay-

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ers a lot of money. I think we’re up to about $37,000 with Mr. Metz, and that’s just legal fees; that’s not counting time by staff. Of course, he’s lost on every count. One of them is still moving forward. He is still losing, but he’s still moving forward,” Chappie said. “When you ask your attorney or police chief to get information and come forward with a white paper position, you want them to quote the facts, quote the law. To be accused and brought before your peers for plagiarism, Mr. Metz should be embarrassed,” Chappie said. White, who is new to the commission, noted there were no backup materials included in Spooner’s request. “Was this to do with city stuff?” White asked. “Absolutely,” Spooner said. “She was protecting the city from getting into litigation. She wrote a letter to

the members and said these are the rules, so don’t break them.” Chappie agreed there needs to be some additional documentation, and Perry said she would provide the city with an invoice for the legal work she performed and the additional legal work performed by another attorney. “It seems to me this is a personal matter,” White said. White, a commercial pilot, said unions represent pilots named in complaints, but city employees don’t have union representation and are therefore on their own. “That’s exactly what we’re doing. We’re the company going to bat for our employee for some false accusations that were trying to strip her of her career,” Spooner responded. “I don’t think she should suffer the consequences,” Commissioner Marilyn Maro added.

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Close call for boaters off Anna Maria A Manatee County Sheriff ’s Office deputy observed some boaters who had a problem offshore on Sunday, Jan. 14, shortly after midnight during a storm, according to a Sheriff ’s Office report. While on patrol, Deputy Richard Snyder noticed a white sailboat anchored about 50 yards offshore and 75 yards south of the Rod and Reel pier. The sailboat had a black dingy tethered to the end of it. The vessel was facing towards the bay, and the water was extremely choppy, with winds gusting up to 24 mph. The vessel was completely lit up with its navigation, white mast light and a white light at the stern of the boat. Snyder observed two men come up on deck and begin running towards the stern. It appeared that the bow anchors on the boat had come loose. The boat, still anchored at the

stern, swung 180 degrees, the report said. As the men ran forward, Snyder used his patrol vehicle’s spot light to communicate with them in Morse code. As he was sending the message to them, all of the lights on the boat went dark. Not sure what was going on, he contacted another deputy and then the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission (FWC). As he was talking with them, the West Manatee Fire Rescue truck arrived. The firefighter explained that they got a call from employees at the Rod and Reel pier about a vessel in distress. They made contact with the Bradenton Beach Police Department and the Coast Guard, which also responded. West Manatee’s Marine Unit arrived and made contact with the vessel prior to the arrival of the other agencies. They made contact with the

men on the vessel, who said their engine had died and their bow anchors had come loose due to the choppy conditions. The anchors were secured once more, and the vessel’s lights came back on. FWC dispatch explained that as long as the vessel was not in the marked off swim area of Bayfront Park (it was not), they could anchor at their current location. The dispatcher added that it was a dangerous area to anchor and that the boat’s white mast light had to remain on by law. The men told the firefighters they were going to stay on their boat until morning. They said they had cell phones and would call 911 if their situation changed. There was no further communication and the boat left after dawn.

JANUARY 24, 2018

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JANUARY 24, 2018

BUSINESS BRIEFS Busy evening planned The Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce will be busy at the January business card exchange on Wednesday, Jan. 24, from 5 to 7 p.m. at Waterline Marina Resort and Beach Club, 5325 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. The Chamber will be giving away more than $50,000 in grant money from the Trolley Give Back Program, following a ribbon cutting ceremony at 5:15 p.m. to celebrate the opening of Waterline. In addition, there will be liquid refreshments, lite bites and live music from Mike Sales.

The cost is $5 for Chamber members and $10 for prospective members. RSVPs are appreciated by calling 941778-1541.

Holmes Beach. Members are invited to welcome this business to the Chamber.

Chamber sets February events

After 11 years on the Island, Anna Maria City Commissioner Nancy Yetter and her husband Mike are selling their Anna Maria home and moving to Tampa to be closer to family. Yetter expects Thursday, Feb. 8, to be her final commission meeting. When Yetter leaves, her fellow commissioners will nominate and appoint someone to fill the remainder of her commission term which expires in early November. “I’ve really enjoyed meeting everyone and trying to strike an even balance for the residents and the businesses, but the residents were always first in my

The Anna Maria Island will hold its Chamber Networking Luncheon for Wednesday, Feb. 7, from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at nRich Bistro, 5629 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton. The cost to attend is $15 for members and $25 for prospective members. RSVP by calling the chamber at 941-778-1541 or email info@amichamber.org There will be a ribbon cutting and grand opening on Thursday, Feb. 15, from 5 to 7 p.m. at howluckyami at Restless Natives, 5416 Marina Drive,

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THE SUN

heart,” Yetter said.

Conley named ASHI Secretary Anna Maria resident Michael Conley will be sworn in to serve as secretary of the American Society of Home Inspectors’ (ASHI) 2018 board of directors on Jan. 21 at the annual InspectionWorld educational conference in Orlando. Conley and the other board members will help homebuyers and sellers better understand how to choose the best home inspector for their real estate transactions. Founded in 1976 and now boasting more than 8,000 members, ASHI is the oldest non-profit, professional organization of home inspectors in North America.

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THE SUN

JANUARY 24, 2018

Vann becomes U.S. citizen Vann helped create the Historic Green Village in Anna Maria.

It was very moving. Many have struggled

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun

ANNA MARIA – Anna Maria resident Lizzie Vann became a U.S. citizen last week. Vann participated in an Oath of Allegiance ceremony in Tampa on Friday, Jan. 19. She was among the 77 people from 33 countries sworn in as citizens that day. “We all stood as our countries were called out. The list ran from Argentina to Uruguay, with everything in between – but not the president’s preferred country of Norway,” Vann said. “It was a very celebratory atmosphere. The Homeland Security staff made everyone feel welcome and proud to become a part of America. There was an awesome video of the national parks and a welcome message from Donald Trump. It was very moving. Many have struggled to get here, and it takes a long time. There

to get here, and it takes a long time. There are a lot of hurdles to jump over.” Lizzie Vann, Anna Maria resident

SUBMITTED

Anna Maria resident Lizzie Vann (center/left) takes the Oath of Allegiance in Tampa are a lot of hurdles to jump over. I started the process in 2008,” Vann said. She celebrated her newly-obtained citizenship at Island Time in Bradenton

Beach that night. Vann owns the Historic Green Village in Anna Maria and a few other buildings on Pine Avenue, including the building

she leases to the city for use as an annex to city hall. Vann originally hails from Leicester, England, and she now holds dual British and American citizenship. She has made her living as entrepreneur and business woman. While living in England in 1992, Vann launched a range of Organix organic foods for British children. She later sold that business in 2008.

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JANUARY 24, 2018

THE SUN

Holmes Beach celebrates Florida Arbor Day BY KRISTIN SWAIN SUN STAFF WRITER | kswain@amisun.com

HOLMES BEACH – Members of the Parks and Beautification Committee, along with Mayor Bob Johnson and representatives from Keep Manatee Beautiful and the Florida Forestry Service gathered Jan. 19 to celebrate Florida Arbor Day at Memorial Garden. In honor of the day, committee members chose a weeping boyette bottlebrush tree to be planted in the garden, located adjacent to city hall. The red flowering tree replaces one that was lost during Hurricane Irma in September. The tree was donated by Keep Manatee Beautiful. Senior forester Eric Strickland said he was excited to be a part of the celebration, one of the few he said he sees held annually to honor Florida Arbor Day. He added that the weeping boyette is an “almost perfect tree to have” because it’s a low maintenance tree once established and can thrive in harsher environments. While the tree is not a native species, committee member Dennis Groh said it’s not an invasive species either. Johnson commended Keep Manatee

KRISTIN SWAIN | SUN

Senior forester Eric Strickland, Dennis Groh, Mayor Bob Johnson, Bob Longworth from Keep Manatee Beautiful, Joshua Linney and Zan Fuller celebrate the planting of a weeping boyette bottlebrush tree at Memorial Garden in Holmes Beach. Right, Mayor Bob Johnson, center, reads a proclamation Jan. 19 in honor of Florida Arbor Day. Beautiful and committee members on their continuing work to help make the city more beautiful through landscaping.

“This is such a fantastic, well-based celebration,” he said of Florida Arbor Day.

THE SUN

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JANUARY 24, 2018

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JANUARY 24, 2018

THE SUN

Historical Society luncheon set

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Members and guests, prospective members and visitors are invited to attend the Anna Maria Island Historical Society’s annual luncheon at the Studio at Gulf and Pine, 10101 Pine Ave, Anna Maria, on Tuesday, Feb. 13, at noon. The menu includes candied walnut and beet salad with grilled chicken, spanakopita – Greek phyllo pastry filled with spinach and feta cheese, Early Settler’s Bread and cupcakes by Cupcake Delights. Luncheon tickets are $20 for members and $25 for non-members. The speaker will be J. B. Crawford,

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author of three books for young adults, a historic book on the Village of Cortez and a book about the local marijuana trade. His books will be available for purchase at the luncheon and are available at the AMI Historical Museum, 402 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Luncheon guests also will hear the Society's plans for the future and members will elect officers and board members for the upcoming year. RSVP to Susan Anderson at 407-4152678 or amihsmembership@gmail.com.

THE SUN

FOOD & WINE

JANUARY 24, 2018

Cold weather comfort food

Brian Mathae

Crab Cakes (Makes 8 cakes)

Ingredients:

HURRICANE HANKS

e left the great white North 1 year ago bound for our new lives in sunny and warm Florida. The recent cold spell here has been a shock to our system as we have willingly acclimated to the Florida weather. The current temperatures are very similar to what one can experience in January in Vancouver, British Columbia, where we are from. The Pacific Ocean moderates Vancouver’s air temperature with an average 43 degree daytime high and 34 degree nighttime low. Also similar is the humidity, which makes temperatures feel colder than they are. Sometimes much colder than they are. We often refer to it as a bone chilling cold as the humid air makes us cold, inside and out! Its times like these that I seek out comfort food. Wikipedia defines comfort food as “Food that provides a nostalgic or sentimental value to someone, and may be characterized by its high caloric nature, high carbohydrate level or simple preparation. The nostalgia may be specific to an individual or it may apply to a specific culture." I seek out foods that are hearty, filling and warming. Most often these are carbohydrate rich foods. The reason is carbohydrates are digested fairy quickly and can increase blood sugar levels within 15 minutes of eating. It’s the elevated blood sugar levels that give us that satisfied feeling. Crab cakes are very comforting to me. Robust in flavor, soothing in texture, they are the perfect Florida cold weather comfort food. And they are simple to prepare! There are many recipes for crab crakes, so whichever

• 1lb. cooked crab meat • 1/4 red onion • 1/2 green pepper • 1/4 red pepper • 1 stick celery • 1/2 c. mayonnaise • 2 oz. clarified butter • 1 tsp. garlic powder • 1 tsp. granulated union • 1 tsp. Old Bay Seasoning • 1/2 tsp. salt • 1/4 c. chopped fresh parsley• 1 1/2 c. panko

Directions

SUBMITTED

Crab cakes are the perfect Florida, cold weather, comfort food. you choose, just make sure you use the appropriate quality crab meat and fresh ingredients. There are varying grades of crab meat ranging from colossal lump crabmeat to claw crabmeat. Colossal lump is the most expensive grade, but not appropriate for crab cakes. The sweet taste will be lost when adding various seasonings. Colossal lump meat comes from the swimmer fins on the crab, and since there

are only two per crab this meat is expensive. Lump crabmeat is broken lumps and larger chucks of body meat. The flavor profile is excellent and the size of the pieces will make for some impressive crab cakes. Alternately backfin crab meat, which is a combination of smaller broken pieces of lump crabmeat and white body meat, can be used.

• Blend onion, green pepper, red pepper, celery, garlic powder, granulated onion, Old Bay Seasoning and salt in food processor until liquid. • Add butter to pan and once hot, saute the ingredients of the food processor on high heat for 12 minutes, stirring as you go. • Remove from heat and let cool. • In a large bowl, thoroughly mix crab meat and cooled sautéed vegetables until well blended. Mix in mayonnaise. • Add panko to the mix, blending in half at a time. Once thoroughly mixed add chopped parsley. • Scoop into 8 equal portions and form a patty with your hands. • In a heavy skillet add butter and/or oil over medium heat. • Add cakes and flip occasionally until browned and crisp on both sides.

www.amisun.com

JANUARY 24, 2018

THE SUN

Cottage owner raises the roof - and the floor Elevating ground level cottages is a rare occurrence in Bradenton Beach. BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

BRADENTON BEACH – Chris Miller recently had his 1952 ground-level cottage elevated. Miller’s 452-square foot is located on a half lot at 1201 B Gulf Dr. S. He bought the cottage in 2010 and in 2012 applied for the variances needed at that time to elevate an existing structure. “It’s an old cottage. Mr. Miller really wanted to keep the cottage, and he recognized there’s space limitations. He had to apply for variances in order to fit it on the lot because it wouldn’t fit within a 10-foot setback,” Bradenton Beach Building Official Steve Gilbert said. In 2016, Bradenton Beach’s

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

Chris Miller’s 1952 cottage now stands taller than his neighbors’ homes to the north and south. The cottage was lifted up and placed on timbers as part of a process called timber cribbing. land development code was amended in a manner that now allows existing structures to be elevated without a variance, as long as the elevation occurs in

the existing footprint. Miller started his permitting process before these changes took place. When asked about the

advantages of elevating an existing cottage, Gilbert said, “If you want to keep the cottages and save a lot of money on flood insurance just elevate

them, because flood insurance is going up 23 to 25 percent a year.” In recent years, many cottage homes have been demolished and replaced with larger elevated homes. When asked if elevating cottages is common in Bradenton Beach, Gilbert said, “It’s the first that I know of. They put it on I-beams and used hydraulic jacks to jack it up on timbers. They lifted it up and shifted it to where it was supposed to go pursuant to the variance orders the special master approved in 2012. And the neighbors to the back are not happy. They bought their place about a year ago and Mr. Miller’s place had not been elevated yet, so they didn’t know it was going to get elevated.” As of last week, no one was yet residing in the recently elevated cottage, and it appeared there was still more work to do.

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JANUARY 24, 2018

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JANUARY 24, 2018

THE SUN

Uncle George’s zipper parade BY SEAN MURPHY SPECIAL TO THE SUN

he Beach Bistro will be hosting another St Patrick’s Day Parade this year. It will be the 20th annual Beach Bistro St Patrick’s Day

Parade. It will be huuuuge. The parade is generally celebrated on the Sunday closest to St Patrick’s Day – this year that is Sunday the 18th of March. As with all things Irish, we will be making up a lot of stuff at the last minute, so keep in touch through the Beach Bistro for developments. Apparently I love parades – this story is about my favorite: The Beach Bistro hosted another St Patrick’s Day Parade last Sunday. The parade was huu-uge. The crowd was in the millions. It was the largest parade crowd in history. The lying press fixed the pictures so it looked like the crowd was smaller. I come from a long line of parade enthusi-

asts. My family’s favorite was what we called Uncle George’s Zipper Parade. It all started with George’s baked beans. My uncle George loved putting rum in his cooking. His beans were particularly lethal. George got the beans and pork and brown sugar going in a huge iron crock on the stove. Then he turned it down low and loaded in the rum. He built a hardwood fire in a hole in the backyard. When the fire turned to coals, he took the cast iron pot from the stove and put it in the hole and covered it with gravel and sand. The pot would bake all day and then cool through the night. It was the original Nova Scotian slow cooker. Losing the rum’s alcohol in the cooking drove George crazy. It seemed a terrible waste. The last time he cooked his beans he decided to try to seal the alcohol in by wrapping the crock in a space age aluminum blanket he bought to keep warm at hockey games. He sealed the whole thing up with duct tape and put the crock in the hole with the red hot coals. George washed down all that cooking and digging with a couple of beers. The beers necessitated taking relief through the back

fence into McGuillicuddy’s yard. Uncle George and McGillicuddy had been bickering all of their lives. He and McGIllicuddy were forever peeing back and forth through the fence. When the beans exploded, the blast scared the bejeezuz out of George. He zipped up real fast and caught a bit of his equipment in the zipper. No amount of cussing or jiggling or dancing around could get him uncaught. Reluctantly, George called Cousin Mike the doctor. Doctor Mike was in charge of the emergency room at the hospital. Doctor Mike immediately appreciated the gravity of George’s dilemma. He called about a dozen cousins over to the house to evaluate George’s condition and consult on a course of action. Cousin John was appointed to keep me abreast of developments by phone. After some considerable rum-sipping and muffled giggling the boys resolved to transport uncle George to the emergency room by ambulance. Because of the urgency of the situation, Cousin Tommy, the police sergeant, called in a couple of squad cars to act as escort. Cousin Glenn the fire inspector got a pumper.

Uncle George and his zippered appliance moved off in a parade of sirens and flashing lights and horn-hooting cousins. Because of the sensitivity of George’s condition, the parade proceeded at a cautious pace – past all of the family’s houses on the way to the hospital. My grandmother had 10 kids. It was a longish parade. When George finally got to the hospital, Cousin Mike had arranged a greeting by the entire emergency room staff. Cousin Tommy, the cop, had called his dad, the press photographer, so the papers were in attendance. Uncle George was safely extracted from the zipper. The celebration of this medical miracle went on into the wee hours. The parade was appropriately covered in the home town papers. The parade crowd was reported to be in the millions. Huuuge. Sean Murphy is the head coach of the incredibly talented team that runs the Beach Bistro; its little sister, Eat Here; and their new craft cocktail bar, The Doctors Office. Some of his articles can be found on the Bistro’s web-site, www.beachbistro. com or calling 941-778-6444

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THE SUN

JANUARY 24, 2018

Seahorse art show begins Friday The seahorse art can be viewed online and at participating Bradenton Beach businesses. BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

BRADENTON BEACH – The Bridge Street Merchants/artsHOP Seahorse Public Art Project and walk-able art show will be on display at participating Bridge Street businesses from Friday, Jan. 26, through Sunday, Feb. 25. Created by professional and amateur artists of all ages and skill levels, the seahorses will be on display at the Bridge Street Bistro, BridgeWalk Resort, Cove, Back Alley, Uptown Lot, Sea-renity, Mermaid Haven/Bridge Street Interiors, The Bridge Tender Inn & Dockside Grill, Tide & Moon Jewelry and Anna Maria Oyster Bar on the Pier. Maps containing information on specific seahorse locations will be made available online and at participating businesses beginning Friday. All the seahorses on display will be for sale via online auction at www.visitbridgestreet.com. Bidding on all pieces will start at $30, and there will be a buy it now option. Photos of each entry will be posted at the website. Participating artists will receive half of the selling price. After

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

These are some of the 60 works of seahorse art that will be on display for the next month. credit card processing fees and other costs are subtracted, the remaining 40 percent of the proceeds will assist the Bridge Street Merchants in hosting Christmas on Bridge Street and other public events that benefit local charities. An estimated 100 seahorses were created using plywood templates cut by Dan Ryan and Dan Cleary, using wood donated by Island Lumber in Holmes Beach. Sixty works of seahorse art were then donated back to the Bridge Street Merchants for inclusion in the month-long walk-able art show. “This is our third year hosting the Public Art Project and I’m thrilled to have more artist participation than ever, including some Ringling alumni. We’ve also added a new fundraising opportunity for

our neighbor Mote Marine that will allow everyone to get involved in the art show, even if they aren’t going to bid on an art piece,” said volunteer Public Art Coordinator Amanda Escobio. The new Vote for Mote element allows folks to vote for their favorite seahorse or seahorses for $5 per vote. The vote proceeds will be donated to Mote Marine’s Adopta-Seahorse Program. “Some people may not realize that we have an internationally recognized seahorse conservation program right in our own backyard,” said Cove owner Kelly Headley. For more details on the Seahorse Public Art Project, contact Escobio at 941-896-2222.

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JANUARY 24, 2018

THE SUN

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† Receive 200 points for joining Coast2Coast Rewards®. † † Subject to credit approval. Comenity Bank issues the Bealls Florida Credit Card. This Program is NOT affiliated with or related to the Bealls Outlet Rewards Program in any way. Coast2Coast Rewards® program is provided by Bealls Stores, Inc. which is solely responsible for the Program operation. Bealls Stores, Inc. may change the terms of the Program at any time. For full Rewards Terms and Conditions, please visit www.beallsflorida.com/online/rewards.

10 bealls buck$

GET $

FOR EVERY $50 YOU SPEND

Receive $10 Bealls Bucks (January 24 & 25, 2018) when you make a qualifying merchandise purchase of $50 or more (before taxes) in Bealls Stores only. Maximum of $120 Bealls Bucks awarded per guest. Bealls Bucks have no cash value and can be redeemed in-store (January 26 & 27, 2018) only at Bealls Stores. Bealls Bucks must be presented and surrendered at time of purchase; any remaining balance will be forfeited. Bealls Bucks cannot be earned on purchases of gift cards or applied to prior purchases, gift cards, taxes or existing Bealls Florida credit balances. Bealls Bucks will be applied before any percent off total purchase discounts. Offer cannot be earned or combined with Employee discount. OP12

Go to BeallsFlorida.com for hours & locations. Bealls Stores & BeallsFlorida.com are operated by Bealls Stores, Inc. and Beall’s Westgate Corporation. GE01

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THE SUN

JANUARY 24, 2018

ITPO members talk ongoing projects ITPO members are hopeful that more details about ongoing projects, particularly the Barrier Island Traffic Study, will be available for review in February. BY KRISTIN SWAIN SUN STAFF WRITER | kswain@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA – Members of the Island Transportation Planning Organization are hopeful that 2018 will be a very productive year. The three Island mayors, along with representatives from the Sarasota/ Manatee Metropolitan Planning Organization and Florida Department of Transportation met in Anna Maria City Hall to discuss ongoing projects and upcoming issues. Engineer Lynn Burnett, representing the ITPO on the Technical Advisory Coucil, gave an update on the project priority application process for the Department of Transportation. Despite two projects rating highly on the department’s project priority list, Burnett said the applications need to be resubmitted before Feb. 1 for funding consideration. No changes were needed to the applications other than updated signatures from the three Island mayors. With mayoral support, the two applications, each for a complete streets

KRISTIN SWAIN | SUN

ITPO members Bradenton Beach Mayor John Chappie, Anna Maria Mayor Dan Murphy, and Holmes Beach Mayor Bob Johnson, along with Sarasota/Manatee Metropolitan Planning Organization and Florida Department of Transportation representatives David Hutchinson and Jesten Abraham listen to committee updates. project in Holmes Beach and Bradenton Beach on Gulf Drive, will be taken back before each Island city commission for approval before March 1. ITPO members will begin work to create their own list of priority projects in February. Burnett also said work will continue Feb. 1 on the Spring Lake outfall on Palm Drive in Holmes Beach. Single lane closures on Palm Drive near Gloria Dei Lutheran Church will happen throughout the day as cement trucks come in to fill between the aging concrete pipes and modern pipes slipped

inside last year when the old pipes failed. With WaStop valves in place, Burnett said it’s now possible to dry out the pipes to finish the restoration project. FDOT representative Jesten Abraham said routine maintenance will be conducted on the Longboat Key Bridge Jan. 28 through Feb. 1. Work is scheduled to take place between 9 p.m. and 4 a.m. with intermittent one-lane closures. Abraham said he’d bring an update on the overall condition of the bridge to ITPO members as quickly as possible. Abrahams also reported that Tri-

Family fishing fun Lily Nolan shows off the shrimp she used as bait while fishing with her parents, Anna Maria Copeland and Norris Nolan, at the Rod and Reel Pier while on a recent visit to the Island from Rockville, Md. PAT COPELAND | SUBMITTED

TOM VAUGHT | SUN

Goodbye Trudy Tuesday, Jan. 16, was the last day for Trudy Hill to lead the Island Branch Library’s preschool story time. She has resigned from her position as children’s services director and will travel with her husband and enjoy her community as well. Kids at story time gathered around her to say goodbye, and parents said she had added a sense of fun to the kids’ programming. The Manatee County Library will send personnel from the mainland to conduct story time until a permanent replacement is named.

cia LaBud, head of the Barrier Island Traffic Study, had left the department, leaving Tanya King and Nathan Cotz temporarily in charge of the study until a permanent replacement is found. A detailed update on the study’s progress is expected at the February meeting. Citizen’s Advisory Committee representative Claudia Carlson announced that she would not be seeking renewal of her position once it expires in April. Instead, she nominated Islander Sarah Calhoun as her replacement. Calhoun, an engineer, is the Manatee County representative to the CAC.

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JANUARY 24, 2018

THE SUN

Murder, mayhem, and mystery at the Center Join Grego and hisamazing racing hermit crabsevery Tuesday at 7:00 PM

Slicker's Pig Roast This Sunday

4628 119th St W Cortez (941)798-2035 swordfishgrill.com Marker 49 by boat

The Center of Anna Maria Island’s annual murder mystery dinner theater is back for two nights only, Friday, Feb. 16 and Saturday, Feb. 17. In its 10th year, this year’s murder mystery theme is Las Vegas, featuring mob bosses, gambling, and even Elvis is scheduled to make an appearance. The cast features Don Purvis, Mike Shaughnessy, Monica Simpson, Will Schenerlein, Caleb Roberts, Ray Gardner, Time Shaughnessy, Bri Shaughnessy, Leah Purvis, Jillian Cacchiotti, Erin Heckler and Keith Leathem. The play, “What happened on the Island stays on the Island,” was written and directed by Beth and Bri Shaughnessy. Tickets are $45 and include dinner and the show. For an additional $15 guests can mingle with the cast from 6:30 to 7:15 p.m. Doors open at 7 p.m. with the curtain rising at 7:30 p.m. A cash bar, live auction and raffles also will be available. This event is recom-

FILE PHOTO

Attendees participate in a costume contest during the 2017 Murder Mystery dinner theater production at The Center of Anna Maria Island. mended only for adults. To purchase tickets, call the Center at 941-778-1908, go online to www.centerami.org, or visit 407

Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria. To sponsor the event, contact Executive Director Kristen Lessig at kristenl@centerami.org.

Funding requests approved On Thursday, Jan. 18, Bradenton Beach Commissioners approved payment for $2,208 and $2,415 invoices for police radio access and the maintenance of police department radios. The commission approved a $21,732 request to purchase seven in-car computers for the police department. The commission authorized Public Works Director Tom Woodard to spend $1,839 for a commercial icemaker for city employees and $1,498 for Woodard to attend the Public Works Association Conference in Jacksonville.

SWORDFISH GRILL | SUBMITTED

Gary Rosen benefit planned Cortez Bait & Seafood, Killer Bait, the Swordfish Grill and Fratello’s Chicago Pizzeria will host a fund-raising benefit for Gary Rosen on Sunday, Feb. 11. The benefit will begin at 2 p.m. and take place at Cortez Bait & Seafood, 4528 119th St. W. in Cortez, next to the Cortez Kitchen. Rosen has end stage renal failure and has been on kidney dialysis for more than a year. His doctor says he’s a great candidate for a kidney transplant, but his insurance won’t cover all the associated expenses, including co-payments and medications. While he deals with his own illness, Rosen is also caring for his mother, who is suffering from heart failure. If Rosen can’t raise the money for the transplant, he will not get it. The fund-raiser will include a raffle and a silent auction featuring items donated by many local businesses, a cash bar, food sales and live music by the Eric Von Band and Tim Chandler.

THE SUN

OUTDOORS

JANUARY 24, 2018

Follow the leader Reel Time RUSTY CHINNIS

eaders are an important part of every angler’s repertoire. Sometimes the difference between casting and catching boils down to properly tied leaders and the knots used to construct them. Leaders are important in most situations, but essential when targeting species like snook, tarpon and kingfish. Leader construction doesn’t have to be technical, but is crucial with big powerful fish and those with sharp teeth. Let’s consider a few scenarios and the basics of leader construction that will help to improve your success. Snook are one of the area’s premier gamefish, and while they don’t have teeth, they do have an abrasive mouth that can easily fray monofilament. They also have an extremely sharp gill plate that can slice through light (and some heavier) line. Snook are normally pursued with relatively light tackle. That means outfits in the 8- to fifteen-pound test range. Even an average snook can easily wear through this line, so a properly tied leader is essential. The preferred leader strength (bite tippet) is 30-pound, heavy enough to survive most battles with snook. When fishing around structure or under conditions when fish aren’t leader shy you can step up 40-pound test. Start by doubling your standing line (the line on your reel) using either a spider hitch or a Bimini twist. Then tie a 12- to 18-inch piece of 30-pound test to the doubled line to create the leader. It’s preferable to tie the doubled line to the tippet using a surgeon’s knot, uni-knot or

RUSTY CHINNIS | SUN

Large king mackerel can be caught on light tackle provided you construct proper leaders. blood knot but a small black swivel will suffice. When fishing for tarpon, another highly prized gamefish, a properly tied leader is critical. These gladiators average from 60 to over a 100 pounds, and while they don’t have teeth, they do have rasp like jaws. Due to their size, it also takes much longer to land them. Tarpon leaders can be rather elaborate, but a doubled standing line and a 24-inch, 70-pound (or up to 100-pound) bite tippet will be adequate. Popular gamefish like Spanish mackerel, bluefish and king mackerel have sharp teeth and require a bit more attention to detail. Leaders can be started in the same manner by doubling the line and tying on a properly sized bite tippet. While a piece of wire is often used with toothy fish,

Spanish mackerel and bluefish can be targeted using a couple of different options. Leaders can be tied using long shanked hooks and upping the bite tippet to 40-pound test. It’s still possible to lose them, but if they’re leader shy it’s a better option. The idea is that they come into contact with the hook instead of the leader or get hooked in the corner of the jaw avoiding the teeth altogether. King mackerel, being much larger, do require the addition of wire. Construct the leader as before with 40-ound monofilament tied to the doubled line. This time the wire (12 inches) will act as the bite tippet. While it’s possible to just use a swivel to join the leader and wire with a haywire twist, there’s a better option. Bluefish and both species of mackerel

are very aggressive and can mistake a swivel, especially a shiny one, for a meal. Instead learn to tie an Albright knot which allows you to join wire directly to your leader. This knot can also be used when joining dissimilar lines (braided to wire, monofilament to braided, etc.), so it’s worth the time it takes to learn and tie one. While leaders can much more complicated, they don’t need to be difficult. Follow the basic formula, make sure your knots are properly seated and start catching more fish. As you become more proficient you can advance to more complex leader construction. There are a number of excellent books and (YouTube) videos on the subject of knots and leader construction.

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JANUARY 24, 2018

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Capitalize on winter species CAPTAIN MAC GREGORY

As we all know, temperatures have been downright frigid a few mornings lately. The key to winter fishing is finding the nice windows of time to capitalize on our winter species. We here at Anna Maria Charters are focused on sheepshead, tripletail, permit and pompano. Hitting local docks with fiddler crabs and live shrimp is producing a good sheepshead bite. Every now and again, you’ll pick up an nice redfish or black drum as well. Fishing the edges of deeper sandbars is producing pompano as well. These fish move around quite a bit. So an area that was productive today, may not be tomorrow. But keep moving and trying other spots nearby. Those fish don’t move too far. Tripletail, although fished pretty heavily right now, are still being caught on crab pots. A live shrimp or fly is the ticket. Good luck and tight lines.

CAPTAIN RICK GRASSETT

Anglers fishing with me, out of CB’s Saltwater Outfitters on Siesta Key, had some action with trout, bluefish, pompano and a red on CAL jigs with shad tails on a trip in Sarasota Bay during the past week. With a strong front

CAPTAIN MAC GREGORY | SUBMITTED

Jim Musto, of Pittsburgh, Penn., shows off a huge sheepshead he caught while fishing with Captain Mac Gregory. approaching fast on Wednesday afternoon, fish turned on. Marshall Dinerman and Vic Silverman, both from Atlanta, Ga., fished Sarasota Bay with me on Wednesday. With water temperature in the high 50s, action was slow to start. However as an approaching front got close to us, action turned on. They ended the trip with several nice trout, blue-

CAPTAIN RICK GRASSETT | SUBMITTED

Vic Silverman, from Atlanta, Ga., with a redfish caught on a CAL jig with a shad tail while fishing Sarasota Bay with Captain Rick Grassett.

fish, pompano and a red on CAL jigs with shad tails. The next couple of trips were cancelled due to extreme conditions, lows in the 30s. Fortunately, the cold snap only lasted a couple of days before a warm up started. A forecast for sunny afternoons, with air temperatures inå the low 70s early next week should warm water temperatures back into the 60s within a few days. I was the instructor for a CB’s Saltwater Outfitters OrvisEndorsed Fly fishing School on Saturday. Students received instruction in fly casting basics, line control, shooting line and the roll cast. Students also learned leader construction, fly selection and saltwater fly fishing techniques. Contact CB’s Saltwater Outfitters at 941-349-4400 or info@cbsoutfitters.com to make reservations for the next school on Feb. 24. Fish the windows of stable weather between fronts for the best action. Sunny afternoons with some protection from the wind should fish better this time of year due to warmer water. Since the last cold front was relatively short in duration, water temperature should warm back into the 60s within a few days. There should be good action with trout, blues, pompano and more on deep grass flats of Sarasota Bay. Shallow water action for larger trout and reds should also be a good option.

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THE SUN

JANUARY 24, 2018

Expert analyzes today’s politics Paul Ferber has taught political science at Rochester Institute of Technology since 1981 and earned his Ph.D. from George Washington University. BY TOM VAUGHT SUN STAFF WRITER | tvaught@amisun.com

HOLMES BEACH – Distrust runs high in the nation’s capital and the two political parties are polarized, slowing the wheels of progress in Congress. What to do? What to do? Political expert Paul Ferber spoke to a full house at the Island Branch Library on Thursday, Jan. 18, as part of the Friends of the Island Library’s Lecture and Travel Series. Ferber detailed a short history of politics, dating back to the 1950s when slogans like “I like Ike” got World War II Army General Dwight David Eisenhower reelected to the presidency. It was the post war era, when America was rebuilding its industrial base, switching from making machines of war to satisfying domestic consumers. “Things weren’t so bad,” he said, “However, civil rights issues and pollution were looming.” Then came the Kennedy administration, tackling those problems and starting another one. “Trust took a nosedive, why?” he asked. “The Vietnam credibility gap.” The war ruined Lyndon Johnson’s reputation, and Richard Nixon was elected.

TOM VAUGHT | SUN

Paul Ferber said distrust is high in Washington D.C., and it has led to polarization and a lack of legislative progress. “He had some unrealistic expectations,” Ferber said. “He got into trouble over the Watergate burglary and fought back unleashing a new form of journalism, investigating reporting.” Respect for presidents fell to new depths. The president was seen as ineffective. Bill Clinton had his problems, even though the budget was balanced. President Obama’s ratings fell due to a deadlock with a Republican Congress. Ferber said the advent of Government in the Sunshine laws have been a two-edged sword. They force politicians to legislate in the open, but they inhibit efforts to reach compromise. “Now we have government by litigation, where issues end up in court,” he said. “For instance, that treehouse went all the way to the

Live like a local Respect Wildlife

front door of the U.S. Supreme Court before they declined to make a decision.” Ferber said the situation in Washington now is contentious, and the voters are unhappy. Political action groups form and influence elected officials, holding campaign money in front of them as bait. Some of the lobbying is performed by groups whose interests are collective, such as the American Association of Retired Persons, or AARP. How to end the bickering? “Show respect for those with whom you disagree, stop gerrymandering voter districts,” he said. “Most of all, make sure you vote.” The next lecture on Jan. 25 is “Sally Snowman, the Boston Light Keeper” at 2 p.m.

Bike and pedestrian presentation The city of Bradenton Beach invites residents and property owners to attend a city commission work meeting presentation on options related to Avenue C right of way restoration and future bicycle

Bonnethead shark

If you hook me, please remove the hook and push me back and forth to revive me so I can swim away. ANNA MARIA ISLAND SUN ANNA MARIA ISLAND TURTLE WATCH AND SHOREBIRD MONITORING

and pedestrian improvements. The work meeting will be conducted at city hall on Feb. 1, at 5 p.m. City hall is located at 107 Gulf Drive. For more information call 941-778-3947.

JANUARY 24, 2018

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THE SUN

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THE SUN

JANUARY 24, 2018

2018 Anna Maria Island Sun Readers’ Choice Business

Business

People, Places, Food & Entertainment

Antique/Collectible Store

Real Estate Assoc. (include location)

Favorite Café

Auto Service

Real Estate Co.

Favorite Candy Store

Bait & Tackle Shop

Rental Co.

Favorite Interior Design

Bank (include location)

Resort

Favorite Waiter/Waitress (include location)

Bike Rental

Service Station

Festival

Boating Store

Shopping Center

Financial Planner

Car Dealer

Sign Maker (include location)

German Restaurant

Car Wash

Souvenir Shop

Golf Course

Carpet Cleaner

Sports Memorabilia

Grouper Sandwich

Clothing Store

Tattoo

Health Food Store

Commercial Print Store

Travel Agency

Hearing Aid Specialist

Convenience Store

Window Repair

Ice Cream Place

Dry Cleaner (include location)

Women’s Apparel

Italian Restaurant

Fitness

Live Theater

Floor Coverings

People & Places

Architect

Massage Therapy

Florist

architectual Design

Mexican Restaurant

Frame Shop

Art Gallery

Mortgage Co.

Gift Shop

Attorney

Most Romantic

Grocery Store

Bagel Shop

New Restaurant

Hair Salon

Band

Night Spot

Heat & Air

Bar & Grill

Personal Trainer (include location)

Home Builder

Barbecue

Pet Grooming

Hotel/Motel

Beach

100 Pier

Jewelry Store

Boat Captain

Landscape/Garden Shop

Breakfast

102 Place to see a Sunset

Liquor Store

Burger

103 Restaurant (overall)

Manicurist (include location)

Business Person

104 Retirement Community

Marina

Caterer

105 School

Men’s Apparel

Charity

106 School Teacher (include location)

Outdoor Sports Store

Chef (include location)

107 Seafood Restaurant

Pack & Ship

Chinese Restaurant

108 Service Org.

Painter (include location)

Chiropractor

109 Spa

Pest Control

Deli

110 Specialty Gourmet

Pet Store

Dentist

111 Sub/Sandwich

Pharmacist (include location)

Doctor

112 Takeout

Pharmacy

Electrician

113 Veterinarian (include location)

Plumber

Eye Care

114 Veterinary Clinic

Pool Cleaner (include location)

Favorite Bakery

115 View

Pool Contractor

Favorite Bartender (include location)

116 Yoga Instructor (include location)

ENTRY FORM (Must be completed for votes to be accepted) Name: Address: Phone: Day

| Night

I am at least 18 years of age or older (please check box)

Signature:

101 Pizza

(include location)

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. 10, Jan. 17, Jan. 24. 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 26, 2018 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).

JANUARY 24, 2018

ENTERTAINMENT

LEARNING The Lifetime Learning Academy of Ringling College will offer “When Science Fails Us” with Jim Vartulli on Wednesday, Jan. 24, from 1 to 2:30 at the Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Science and inventions have played an important role in our lives. From the printing press to iPhones and computers and from vaccinations to artificial limbs and pacemakers, science has enhanced our way of life. However, science also has failed us. The reasons for these failures range from simple greed and/or incompetence to unexpected consequences. He will discuss several examples of scientific failures including thalidomide, DDT, and the Flint, MI water crisis. He will attempt to answer three questions: What happened? Why did it happen? What were the long-term consequences of these technological failures? This session is free and no registrarion is needed.

MUSIC Jazz Fest Feb. 6 The Anna Maria Island Concert Chorus and Orchestra (AMICCO), the Gulf Drive Band the Sandbar restaurant and the Anna Maria Island Sun newspaper present the 15th annual Jazz Fest on Tuesday, Feb. 6, from 3 to 5 p.m. at the Sandbar restaurant, 200 Spring Ave., Anna Maria. After expenses, ticket proceeds from Jazz Fest go directly to AMICCO. Jazz Fest features the Gulf Drive Band, with Dana Cohen, from Derry, NH on vocals; Ted Young, from Pittsburgh on piano; and Bil Bowdish, from Boston, on flutes, saxes, and vocals. The guest artist again this year will be Koko Ray Hansen, an outstanding local musician, who will sing and play saxes and flute with us. While the band performs in various styles at numerous locations in the area, selections for Jazz Fest will be taken from the 30s through the mid 80s. Sit back, relax and enjoy the beautiful beachside venue or dance to the timeless tunes. Tickets are $12 per person in advance (before noon on Feb. 6) and

used this salt for more than just flavoring their meals. They made body scrubs, facial scrubs and used it in their baths to reduce stress, you name it - this is a process called thalassotherapy, which means, “The use of seawater in cosmetic or health treatments.” The class will make an exfoliating salt scrub, a soothing bath salt for the tub and a sea salt hair spray that gives hair body, texture and enhances natural curl. The cost for this class is $35. Space is limited, and fees are due by January 31. Visit FloridaFolkSchool.org to register. FILE PHOTO

KoKo Ray will be the guest performer at the Jazz Fest on Feb. 6, fund-raiser for the Anna Maria Island Concert Chorus and Orchestra. $15 at the door. The Sandbar will provide refreshments at an additional charge. Tickets are available at the Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce or at the door and are available on a first come, first served basis.

SALES Big book sale ahead The Friends of the Island Library is preparing for their annual book sale at Roser Community Church, 512 Pine Ave, Anna Maria, on Thursday, Feb. 15, from 1 to 3 p.m. for members only and Friday and Saturday, Feb.16 and 17, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Those wanting to shop on Thursday may join at the door or at the library. Clean, gently used books will be accepted up to Feb. 10. Proceeds from the sale will go toward the Friends’ projects and the annual lecture series. For more information, call the library at 941-7786341.

CLASSES A salty class JoAnn Mancuso will teach a salt scrub class at the Folk School at the Florida Maritime Museum, 4415 119th St. W., Cortez, on Saturday, Feb. 3, from 10 a.m. to noon. Sea salt was a prized product in any fishing village. The women

ART What’s new for artists Art supply sales representative Mike Grecian will speak on Monday, Feb. 5, at the Episcopal Church of the Annunciation at 4408 Gulf Drive in Holmes Beach. Social hour begins at 6:30 p.m., and the program starts at 7 p.m. Grecian will demonstrate new products from the many well-known manufacturers he represents. This program is free and open to the public. For more information see the Artists Guild’s Facebook page at https://facebook.com/ArtistsGuildofAMI or the Guild website, www.amiartistsguildgallery.com.

Outdoors art exhibit The Studio at Gulf and Pine at 10101 Gulf Drive is seeking artwork for "A Plein Air Affair," a juried exhibit opening on Wednesday, Feb. 7. There will be a reception Monday, Feb. 5, from 1 to 4 p.m. All artwork must have been executed outdoors on location in Florida during the past three years in watercolor, oil, acrylic or pastel mediums. Island resident and award winning plein air artist Cory Wright will judge the show, which will award more than $500 in prizes to selected winners. An artists’ reception will be held on Thursday, Feb. 15, from 6 to 8 p.m. “En plein air” is French for in the open air. Plein air began in the late 1800s when the Impressionists ventured from their studios into nature to capture the effects of sunlight and different times of days on a subject. Plein paintings require the artist to be skilled at rapid compo-

THE SUN

sition and brushwork in order to capture the light before it changes. The complete artist guidelines are available at www.studioatgulfandpine.com or can be picked up at The Studio. Call 941-778-1906 or visit www.studioatgulfandpine.com for more information about upcoming artist workshops, exhibits and other cultural events.

A call to artists The Anna Maria Island Art League is currently accepting submissions for its 24th Annual James Pay Exhibit, in honor of an Art League founder, entitled “Appreciation and Celebration of the Human Form.” The Anna Maria Island Art League will present its first exhibit of nude works of art. This carefully curated, open to the public show, will be juried and will feature a special exhibit by Richard Thomas in the Art League’s foyer. The opening reception is on Friday, Feb. 9 , from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. The art work will continue to be shown through March 2. Artists are asked to bring submissions to the Anna Maria Island Art League, 5312 Holmes Blvd., Holmes Beach, between the hours of 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Mondays, Wednesdays or Fridays no later than Feb 2. The entry fee is $20 per piece for Art League members and $30 for non-members. There is a limit of three entries per artist. For questions regarding submissions, contact Fran Sansbury, 941778-2099.

Women’s Wellness Day The Women's Club of Christ Church of Longboat Key is sponsoring a Women's Wellness Day on Monday, Feb. 12, from 8:45 a.m. to 1 p.m. Five presenters will offer heart-healthy, brain-healthy strategies for living as long as we can, as well as we can. Attendees will be treated to a catered lunch and will also receive a copy of the comprehensive "Brain Health Coaching Workbook." The cost for the Women's Wellness Day is $15. Purchase tickets by calling Ann Quackenbush at 941-383 1731. Reservations and required, and seating is limited.

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THE SUN

November 2017 tourist tax collections compared to November 2016

Anna Maria Bradenton Beach Holmes Beach Manatee County Total*

18% 27% 8% 11%

*(Anna Maria Island, Bradenton, Longboat Key, unincorporated Manatee County, Palmetto) Manatee Countyâ€™s 5 percent tourist tax is collected from owners of accommodations rented for six months or less who charge the tax to their renters, in most cases, tourists. About 50 percent of the tax proceeds are allocated to Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau tourism marketing efforts, with 20 percent allocated to beach renourishment. Resort tax increases reflect both increased visitation and improved tax collection efforts. Amounts shown were collected in November and paid to the Manatee County Tax Collectorâ€™s Office in December. To anonymously report a rental owner who may not be paying the tax, call 941-741-4809 or visit http://www.taxcollector.com/tdt-evader.cfm. Source: Manatee County Tax Collector

AMIHS scholarship The Anna Maria Island Historical Society is offering one $2,000 scholarship to a high school senior living in Anna Maria, Bradenton Beach or Holmes Beach. The student must have a grade point average of 3.0 (weighted) for a four-year college or a 2.5 (weighted) for a community college. Forms are available at high school guidance offices and the Anna Maria Island Historical Museum, 402 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. The postmark deadline is March 31, 2018, and the recipient will be selected in April. Mail your application to Pat Copeland, Scholarship Committee, Anna Maria Island Historical Society, Box 4251, Anna Maria, FL 34216. For information, call Copeland at 778-9205.

JANUARY 24, 2018

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THE SUN

REAL ESTATE

JANUARY 24, 2018

Foreign Florida – not to foreign buyers

emember when Florida was the land of the walking dead, when your parents and grandparents left the snowy North and bought condos with clubhouses and shuffleboard courts? Remember how everyone north of the North Carolina border wouldn’t get caught moving to Florida? Don’t tell any of this to buyers from other countries; they think Florida is the place to be. For a very long time, international buyers have gravitated to the United States, and it doesn’t really matter what the political climate is here, the economic climate overrules everything. Based on the National Association of Realtors’ Profile of Home Buying Activity of International Clients covering the 12 months ending in March of 2017, the top states in the country where international buyers bought are as follows: Florida, 22 percent; Texas, 12 percent; California, 12 percent; New Jersey, 4 percent and Arizona, 4 percent. These top five states comprised 54 percent of all foreign

Castles in the Sand LOUISE BOLGER buyers for the period reported on. Not surprisingly, 22 percent of all foreign buyers in the United Sates are from Canada. However, China remains the top origin of foreign buyers before Canada, followed by the United Kingdom, Mexico and India. Translated into money, foreign buyers purchased $153 billion of residential property during this time, an increase of $102.6 billion from the previous 12-month period. This represents 10 percent of the dollar volume for existing home sales in the country. Even though foreign buyers purchase property all over Florida, the top Florida destination is still the region encompass-

ing Miami, Ft. Lauderdale and West Palm Beach, representing 52.6 percent of foreign buyers. Orlando, Kissimmee and Sanford are next with 10.8 percent of Florida’s international buyers. Tampa, St. Petersburg and Clearwater came in third with 8.5 percent of foreign buyers. And the closest region to our area, North Port, Sarasota and Bradenton comes in fifth with 4.7 percent. Not only do foreign buyers bring in dollars on their property purchases, they also spend a lot. In Florida alone, foreign buyers spent $19.4 billion per the NRA’s reporting. So, what gets bought must eventually get sold, and 26 percent of the country’s sales were by foreign owners for the 12 month period the NRA’s study analyzed. The sales reflect an opportune time to sell with a shortage of listings and especially for Canadian investors, who bought a long time ago and have benefited from Florida’s strong rate of appreciation. That said, rising home prices, a strong

U.S. dollar and tough talk about immigration at the federal level have created more uncertainties for foreign buyers. However, tougher immigration is aimed at illegal immigration and shouldn’t really have any effect on foreign buyers who are here legally. They also have other obstacles to overcome before purchasing in this country, including immigration restrictions, and exchange rates. Note that the British pound lost ground against the U.S. dollar last year, giving potential buyers from the U.K. a reality check. What was once a drained swamp called God’s waiting room is no more. Florida has turned into God’s country for many international buyers and why not? For the same reason that Americans from all over the country relocate to Florida, international buyers are recognizing Florida’s assets – affordable housing, low taxes and sunshine. Aren’t you glad you’re here already?

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JANUARY 24, 2018

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TOM VAUGHT | SUN

New sign posted The Holmes Beach Contract Post Office, at 5354 Gulf Drive, has new official signage to identify it and a new contractor, Laura Ritter, to run it. The new sign was installed on Wednesday, Jan. 27, as a cold front arrived, causing less than ideal conditions, but the installers persisted and got it done.

TOM VAUGHT | SUN

Meet the author Sieglinde Martin, author of â€œSmall Feet on the Run,â€? appeared at the Island Branch Library on Thursday, Jan. 18, as part of the Meet the Author program. A native of Germany, Martin looks at the German children during and after World War II. In a series of interviews, the book details their lives in the cities and countryside and how they coped with the realities of air raids and battles as the Allies advanced toward Berlin. On Wednesday, Jan. 24, Manatee County Historian Cathy Slusser will appear at 1 p.m. and on Thursday, Jan. 25, Patricia Gussin will appear at 1 p.m.

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ANNA MARIE HAYDEN | SUBMITTED

A sweet flight A hummingbird hovers above a flower and drinks sweet nectar on Anna Maria Island.

JANUARY 24, 2018

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JANUARY 24, 2018

Vacation rental bills being considered Senator Greg Steube and Representative Mike La Rosa are again trying to prohibit or limit local governments’ regulation of vacation rentals. BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

TALLAHASSEE – There are at least three vacation rental bills currently working their way through the state Legislature. Sen. Greg Steube (R-Sarasota) has filed Senate Bill 1400 in an attempt to preempt the regulation of vacation rentals entirely to the state of Florida and its Division of Hotels and Restaurants. As he did in 2017, Rep. Mike La Rosa (RSt. Cloud) has filed legislation, HB 773, that if adopted would allow short-term rentals to be regulated, but those regulations would also have to apply to all other residential properties, whether used as a vacation rentals or private residences. Sen. David Simmons (R-Longwood) has introduced legislation, SB 1640, that would require persons involved in public lodging-

related transactions to display a valid certificate of registration number in rental listings or advertisements. Simmons’ proposed legislation seeks to require transient lodging hosting platforms (rental websites) be registered with the state and be prohibited from making transactions regarding unregistered public lodging establishments.

STEUBE BILL

At 35 pages, Steube’s bill is the longest of the three vacation rental bills found at the Senate and House websites this week. The legislative findings in Steube’s bill say, “Property owners who choose to use their property as a vacation rental have constitutionally protected property and other rights that must be protected ... Vacation rentals are residential in nature and thus belong in residential neighborhoods.” Steube’s bill proposed all vacation rental be licensed by the state only. Vacation rentals are currently required to be statelicensed by the Department of Business and Professional Regulation. All three Anna Maria Island cities also have local ordinances that require the local registration for short-term vacation rentals.

A short-term rental is defined as one leased more than three times a year for less than 30 days at a time, or one that is advertised as being available for less than 30 days. Steube proposes operating a vacation rental without a state license be a seconddegree misdemeanor. He opposes local governments regulating rentals, but he wants local enforcement’s assistance when it comes to enforcement. “Local law enforcement shall provide immediate assistance in pursuing an illegally operating vacation rental,” his bill says. His bill proposes the division have the right to refuse the issuance or renewal of a vacation rental license to anyone found guilty in the past five years of “any crime reflecting on professional character, including solicitation for prostitution, pandering, letting premises for prostitution, keeping a disorderly place or illegally dealing in controlled substances.” The bill also mentions gambling as a prohibited act at a vacation rental. Steube proposes those who operate a vacation rental without a state license or with a suspended or revoked state license be subjected to a fine not to exceed $1,000

for each day of illegal operation. He also proposed the division post a prominent closed-for-operation sign on vacation rentals where the license has been suspended.

LA ROSA BILL

Similar to the bill he filed last year, La Rosa’s HB 773 says, “A local law, ordinance or regulation may regulate activities that arise when a property is used as a vacation rental provided such regulation applies uniformly to all residential properties without regard to whether the property is used a vacation rental.” If adopted as state law, La Rosa’s legislation would require the Island cities’ vacation rental registration programs and fees, occupancy limits and other requirements to be applied to permanent residences as well. La Rosa and Steube’s attempts to pass vacation rental bills last year failed, but their new bills have been submitted to House and Senate committees for consideration. As was the case last year, all three Island cities have directed their contracted lobbyists to combat Steube and La Rosa’s proposed vacation rental legislation.

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JANUARY 24, 2018

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ANNA MARIA : Makes Coastal Living's Top 10 FROM PAGE 1

the voting period, all 10 towns will be promoted via Coastal Living’s social media platforms. The final rankings and the naming of America's Happiest Seaside Town will be released online Tuesday, June 12. All 10 towns, in ranked order, will be featured in Coastal Living’s July/August print issue that goes on sale June 15. The ranked towns will also be featured in an online gallery at the Coastal Living website. “It’s up to you to get out the vote. We encourage you to share the voting link via social media and spread the word using #CLHappyTown throughout the voting period. Organize voting parties, get the community and partners involved and let your counties and states know they need to back you! Rally residents and visitors to vote for Anna Maria and make it No. 1,” Minkin wrote. Murphy wants to discuss these efforts with city commissioners at their Thursday,

Jan. 25, meeting. “I’ll present the commission with some options on what we can do with this and the commission can decide the level of participation they wish the city to have,” Murphy said. One possible form of participation would include posting a link to Coastal Living’s voting page at the city’s website: www. cityofannamaria.com. Minkin’s email also explained the methodology used to determine the happiest seaside towns. Coastal Living editors accepted nominations via social media. Coastal Living then collected each town’s rankings on the Gallup-Healthways Well-Being Index that takes into account the percentage of sunny days, air quality, the healthiness of beaches, commute times, crime ratings, walkability, standard of living and financial well-being of the locals and geographic diversity. Coastal Living editors also assessed each town’s “coastal vibe.”

SATO: Selling the lifestyle FROM PAGE 1

“More buyers are looking for homes for themselves,” he said. “They are looking for an Island lifestyle that’s laid back with lots of time for bicycling and beaches.” He said more buyers are purchasing second homes to use in the cold months, just like buyers have been doing for years. Sato is a Manatee County boy through and through. He attended Manatee High School and Florida State

University, where he earned a degree in economics. He worked in Gainesville before returning to the Island. In 2006, he opened Sato Real Estate with his mother, Barbara. Sato said the more expensive homes on the Island are in hot demand, with more high-end buyers than before. Sato credits his team that supports him and his customers. “They have been amazing,” he said. “The customers know what they want, and when they find it, they buy it.”

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

Mayor Dan Murphy will provide an update this week on the efforts to salvage the wooden pier planks. City Commissioners will decide this week whether to allow A-Frame sandwich board signs for local businesses.

A-frame signs, pier planks on agenda Anna Maria City Commissioners will decide Thursday night if the prohibition on A-frame sandwich board signs will be lifted via ordinance and the enforcement of the existing business sign prohibitions will be suspended immediately via city resolution. Due to the economic impact

of the pier closure, commissioners previously expressed support for both measures. The Jan. 25 meeting will begin at 6 p.m. and also will include an update from Mayor Dan Murphy on the city’s efforts to repurpose and return the engraved wooden pier planks.

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JANUARY 24, 2018

PIER: Urgency questioned FROM PAGE 4

MAYOR'S RESPONSE

“As you may recall, on October 17, the City Commission voted unanimously to build the Anna Maria City Pier with a life expectancy of 75-100 years. This is the direction I gave to our city engineering team to use in the functions of securing federal and state permits, preparing construction/material options and developing time/ cost estimates for the project,” Murphy wrote in response to Bristow. “It is also the end result which I gave to secure funding from the Tourist Development Council, the state of Florida and FEMA, as they want to know how their investment dollars are to be used. Their investment funds are secured with the understanding that the city will build to the 75100-year life expectancy as promised. The task of building to that level is not a 'quick fix' solution to an issue that the city has been faced with for the last 15 years, namely an aging pier in need of an overhaul,” Murphy wrote. “Even though we have made steady progress since October, there still is room for improvement, and I can assure you that both my staff and I have a sense of urgency in this matter. The pressure is on to complete this job sooner rather than lat-

The pressure is on to complete this job sooner rather than later.” Dan Murphy, Anna Maria Mayor er. Within the next few weeks there will be a public meeting scheduled to address our progress to date in permitting, as well as the construction/material options and preliminary expected time/costs. It is our intention that several key decisions needed to move forward with construction be addressed and voted upon by the commission at that meeting,” Murphy wrote.

TOTAL DESTRUCTION?

On Friday, Murphy said he understands why some question the entire pier being closed when most of the damage was to the structures and decking at its T-end. Murphy referenced the term “total destruction” as it appears in the lease that pier tenant Mario Schoenfelder holds with the city until December, 2020. “The term total destruction shall mean damage to the leased premises, which in the landlord’s sole opinion is not reasonably capable of being repaired within 120 days,” the lease says.

Murphy ordered the pier temporarily closed on Sept. 11, and it became permanent on Sept. 20 when the city received a structural assessment and damage report from Ayres Associates. “We recommend immediate closure of the facility until appropriate repairs are made to the pier and buildings. Until those repairs are complete, the public should not be permitted on the pier,” the Ayres report said. Based on the belief that it would take more than 120 days to secure the permits and repair the pier, Murphy and the city commission applied the total destruction contractual designation to the permanent pier closure. “It’s a misnomer, but that’s the verbiage in the contract. The pier’s not gone. It’s still sitting there, and people can see it. I think that’s what’s causing some of the furor. We can either patch it up or we can build a pier with a 75-100-year life expectancy,” Murphy said.

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OBITUARIES Jean McLean (Perry) Aldrich Jean McLean (Perry) Aldrich died on Jan. 18, 2018, in Bradenton. She was born on July 4, 1933 in Palmetto, Fla., and was a descendant of pioneering families who settled there in the late 1870s and early 1880s. Both the McLean and Jones families were involved in farming, citrus growing and shipping. A graduate of Manatee County High School, she was employed at the Bank of Palmetto in the bookkeeping department, married and then started a family. When her children were in elementary school, she was active in Orange Ridge Elementary School and served in a number of capacities. When the children were older, she assisted her husband in the family’s floor covering business. After living in Bradenton for a number of years, the family moved to Anna Maria, Fla. Jean was an active member of Roser Memorial Church where she

BEACH BEAT CORTEZ

1/14, DUI, 4528 119th St. W., Cortez Kitchen. Deputies responded to an accident in the restaurant's parking lot. The driver of the vhicle that struck two other cars showed signs of impairment, and she agreed to take a field sobriety

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sang in the choir, served as chairman of the Music Committee, and vicepresident of the Women’s Guild. When the children were grown, she and her husband returned to Bradenton to live, and joined Westminster Presbyterian Church. Before ill health prevented traveling any great distance, Jean and Bill enjoyed several trips to Europe, and each of their children had the opportunity to experience some of these journeys. Jean and her husband also enjoyed several trips to Mexico and Guatemala. They also enjoyed several Caribbean cruises together and were happy to have had a chance to visit Hawaii. A number of Elderhostels were also enjoyed and found to be educational as well as fun. Mrs. Aldrich was predeceased by her husband of almost 54 years, William L. Aldrich, and is survived by two sons, Mason McLean (Mac) Aldrich (Judy), Mark Timothy (Michelle) Aldrich, and a daughter, Jeanne C. (Jimmy) Paulsen. Also surviving are four grandchildren: O.J. (Rachael) Aldrich, Amber (Stephen) Riley, Rachelle (Erica) StuderByrnes, and Shelley (Justin) DeZiel, and five great grandchildren, Anna

Jude Aldrich, Andi McLean Aldrich, Maverick Aldrich, Niko James StuderByrnes, and Amiya Kate Riley. For over 21 years, family and friends enjoyed the Aldrich’s summer cottage on Lake Burton, Ga., and many wonderful memories were made there. Visitation will be held on Saturday, Jan. 27, 2018, at 10:30 to 11a.m. with a memorial service to follow at 11 a.m. at Westminster Presbyterian Church, officiated by the Rev. Edward Bartel with a graveside service for family members to follow at the Palmetto City Cemetery. Brown & Sons Funeral Homes & Crematory 26th Street Chapel is in charge of arrangements. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that contributions be made to the Palmetto Historical Commission, 515 10th Ave. W., Palmetto, FL 34221. Condolences may be made to www. brownandsonsfuneral.com.

test, Based on the results of the test, the deputy placed her under arrest.

to drive. He asked her where she was working and she said she didn’t have a job yet and she was picking up job applications at the restaurant there. The officer said that permit was not for her to look for a job, just to go to work. She had to leave her car at the beach, and a friend took her home. The officer noted she did not pick up a job application at the restaurant before leaving. 1/11, alcohol code violation, illegal parking, 700 Manatee Avenue. The officer

HOLMES BEACH

1/10, driving with a suspended license, Manatee County Public Beach, 4000 Gulf Drive. The officer spotted a car in the parking lot that was owned by a person who had a suspended license for a DUI. He turned on his lights, and she pulled into the parking lot. When she got out, she produced a temporary work permit

Alan Jonathan Wimpy Alan Jonathan Wimpy “Jon” of Palmetto, Fla., passed away on his 54th birthday, Jan. 17, 2018, at Tidewell Hospice in Ellenton, Fla. Jon was the owner of Appalachian Material Service.

He is survived by wife, Jamie Wimpy; parents, Al and Ann Wimpy, of Dahlonega, Ga.; daughter, Casey Schneider; three grandsons, Jack, Guy, and Dean Schneider of Bradenton, Fla.; stepson, Race Foster; sister, Katherine Carey; niece, Ruthie Carey; nephew, Henry Carey of Mt. Pleasant, S.C.; Dog, Callaway; seven uncles; nine aunts, and 25 cousins. Jon was happiest being on the water. He is known for being the life of the party. He never met a stranger. Generous to a fault, he was loved by all. Visitation will be 1:30 to 3 p.m. with funeral services to follow on Saturday, Jan. 20, 2018, at Brown & Sons Funeral Homes & Crematory 43rd Street Chapel, 604 43rd St. W., Bradenton, FL 34209. Services and interment will follow at Dahlonega Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, make donations to MD Anderson Cancer Center Lymphoma Research. 1220 Holcombe Blvd, Houston, TX, 77030 or Tidewell Hospice, Inc., 4151 37th St E, Palmetto, FL 34221. Condolences to www.brownandsonsfuneral.com.

located a vehicle parked partially on the roadway and sidewalk. The listed owner of the vehicle, a female, started to walk away and he told her to come back, which she did. The officer spoke with a male from the car who said he was driving when the car ran out of gas. The officer observed the driver holding a Styrofoam cup with wine. The driver only had a Florida ID, and he acted intoxicated. The officer issued a code violation ticket.

QUESTIONS: Pier questions answered FROM PAGE 4

ARE ANY OF THE PILINGS PULLED OUT?

There are indications some piles have unseated.

IS THERE DAMAGE TO THE WOOD ABOVE THE WATERLINE?

Yes, there are locations where there is damage to piles above the waterline.

CAN THE CITY PIER, AS IS, CURRENTLY SUPPORT THE STRUCTURES ALREADY ON IT OR THOSE PLANNED?

The current platform and foundation system is supporting the current

structures but based upon structural assessments conducted is not performing as designed.

ARE THE STRUCTURES, SPECIFICALLY LOAD‐BEARING WALLS, SOUND AND SAFE?

The load bearing walls of the restaurant and bait shop appear to be functioning adequately. Safety will depend on the stability of the substructure supporting them.

ARE THE SAME PERMITS REQUIRED FOR REPAIR AND REPLACEMENT? No.

WHAT KIND OF EMERGENCY PERMITS CAN BE APPLIED FOR?

Permit applications have been submitted to the Army Corps of Engineers and Florida Department of Environmental Protection.

WAS A COST BENEFIT ANALYSIS COMPLETED TO DETERMINE THE MOST COST-EFFECTIVE PLAN – I.E. WOOD VS. CONCRETE?

A cost benefit analysis will be conducted regarding the foundation systems considered for support of the structure.

WAS A COST BENEFIT ANALYSIS COMPLETED TO DETERMINE THE MOST ECONOMICAL PLAN FOR PUBLIC SAFETY?

Public safety is of greatest importance and is a key criterion as to the approach being taken in the assessment of the current structure.

ISN’T WOOD THE BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK IN THIS CASE? Not necessarily.

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SPORTS

JANUARY 24, 2018

Moss Builders builds skills and confidence SUN SCOREBOARD TUESDAY, JAN. 16 YOUTH FLAG FOOTBALL 8- TO 10-YEAR-OLD LEAGUE

BY MONICA SIMPSON SPECIAL TO THE SUN

The future of Island recreational sports starts and stops with the youngest players on the field. The love of the game, skill development and life skills such as sportsmanship are guided by the volunteer adults that give of their time at the community center. This flag football season, Ryan Moss not only gives of his time to the boys and girls each week, but his company also sponsored the 5-to 7-year-old age division, making the skills clinic possible. The parents and friends on the sidelines can hear the thoughtful instructions given by Moss in the huddle before the plays. The job of the coach in this age group not only provides pearls of wisdom about the game of football, but also helps to comfort the little players with tears in their eyes when a ball is dropped or a mistake is made. Two teams are formed with all of the kids who attend the clinic. Players periodically switch sides to keep the numbers even as the teams become lopsided because of bathroom breaks, untied shoes and distractions on the sidelines. On defense, Moss’ team takes its position on the field for several snaps by the offense. Coach Moss instructs his players to watch the quarterback’s eyes to try to figure out where the football might be thrown. Caught footballs, flag pulls, interceptions and big runs by both teams make the time on the gridiron the perfect

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WEDNESDAY, JAN. 17 YOUTH FLAG FOOTBALL 11- TO 13-YEAR-OLD LEAGUE

At the Moss Builders football clinic last Tuesday night, Duncan Cloutier rushes past defender Jordan Grose for extra yards after the reception. classroom for learning the game. On a third down play, Moss gave the instruction, “Don’t let them get a touchdown.” More lessons are taught as Moss provided important defensive strategy to wait to move until the football is handed off in case there is a fake handoff by the offense. Even though no scores are kept with the instructional league, the excitement is still in the air and on the field. Touchdowns are just as exhilarating;

Center wrestling wins Just a month after participating in their first wrestling match, the Island’s community center team improved leaps and bounds bringing home three champions.The center’s team members at their first competitive outing was happy with the experience and match victories, but tournament wins and podium rankings are even more exciting. The multiple practices with coach Will Schenerlein paid off. Jaxon

Henry, Liam Coleman and Ethan Sackett were named champions at the tournament. Stone Smith, Fox Smith, Evan Talucci, Dylan Sato and RJ Phelan brought home second place accolades. Michael Coleman rounded out the accomplishments with a third place win. The Center’s youth wrestling team takes to the road to Riverdale High School in Fort Myers on Jan. 28.

interceptions are just as disappointing. As their eight week season progresses, the level of play by all of the little ballers is improved and the game more resembles football. With two clinics and scrimmages left, many of the players will end the season ready to play on the big field the next season in the 8- to 10-year-old age group. Thanks to parents like Moss, these kids will be ready for the next level.

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14- TO 17-YEAR-OLD LEAGUE MONICA SIMPSON | SUN

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THURSDAY, JAN. 18 ADULT CO-ED FLAG FOOTBALL Beach House Real Estate Bins Be Clean

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Cold weather doesn’t deter golfers The golfers at Key Royale Club had to wear warm clothing last week during the temporary cold spell, but it was a break from the summer heat. On Monday, Jan. 15, 36 golfers competed in the modified Stapleford contest. Jere Rice took first place with a score of +6. John Estok came in second with a score of +5. The ladies took to the greens on Tuesday with a low net score event. The results were: Flight A Joy Kaiser, 31 Phyllis Roe, 32

Flight B Carol Patterson, 29 Tie - Sharon Tarras, 30 Tie - Sue Wheeler, 30 Tootie Wagner, 31 Flight C Jana Samuels, 32 Tie – Beth Lindeman, 34 Tie – Barb Estok, 34 Flight D Jane Perkins, 30 Amy Tripp, 31 Markie Ksiazek, 32

Chip-ins Tootie Wagner, Hole #2 Phyllis Roe, Hole #5 Carol Patterson, Hole #7 On Thursday, Jan. 18, 11 golfers battled the frigid temperature to play in the scramble. Hoyt Miller, Art McMillan and Larry Pippel placed first with a score of 32, even par. For more information on Key Royale Club, call 941-7783055.

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AWARDS: Firefighters recognized for outstanding service district’s administrative offices in Bradenton. “We recognize a firefighter and an officer of the year for the exceptional work they do. It’s not just what they’ve done in the last year, it’s generally cumulative. Year-in, year-out, these guys bring something to the organization,” Sousa said. All three special award winners were selected by their peers.

District. He works out of the administrative office and visits all three fire stations when making his daily rounds. The district has two fire stations in west Bradenton and one in Holmes Beach. “It’s an honor for your peers to pick you. You give your heart and soul to the job for 30 years. It really isn’t a job when you love coming to work every day. I’ve been blessed,” Losek said.

FIREFIGHTER OF THE YEAR

MERITORIOUS SERVICE

FROM PAGE 1

First Class Firefighter Philips has been with the district since 2004. “Jeff ’s not really a boat guy, but we moved him out to station 3 (in Holmes Beach) and said, 'Now you’re going to be a boat guy.' He tackled that challenge. He also works at the fire school at Manatee Technical College doing a lot of training. The guys felt he stepped up this year. He’s very deserving of the award,” Sousa said. “I had no clue. This is a nice surprise,” Philips said afterwards.

OFFICER OF THE YEAR

“I have never in the fire service met someone as passionate about their agency and as loyal and as dedicated,” Sousa said of Losek. “He works really hard to move this district forward every single day. He’s always looking out for the best interests of the people he supervises. He’s an excellent fire scene commander. We have a saying: “Everybody goes home,” and that’s what he lives by – to make sure everybody’s healthy and safe when they get done with their 24 hours of duty,” Sousa said. Losek also also recognized for 30 years of service. He began in 1987 as a volunteer firefighter with the Anna Maria Fire Control District and was part of the 2000 merger that created the West Manatee Fire and Rescue

Sousa said the Meritorious Service Award is not given annually, but only when there’s a need to recognize someone’s exceptional work. Sousa said Bowen spends much of his own time working with the firefighters, serving as their union representative and as their advocate for health and safety issues. “He’s really stepped up to the plate these last couple years. He gives the guys a voice when they have concerns,” Sousa said. He credited Bowen for the good working relationship that exists between labor and management. “He’s looking out for the best interests of the district. He’s not just looking out for I and us,” Sousa said. “I’m completely caught off guard. I’m very honored,” Bowen said.

SERVICE AWARDS

Administrative Assistant Julie Kichar and Chris O’Kelly, who was not present, were recognized for 20 years of service Kichar started with the Anna Maria Fire Control District and was also part of the merger. She served 17 years as the district’s financial assistant. “When I became fire chief, she was promoted to administrative assistant. My success is attributable primarily

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

Buddy Bowen receives the Meritorious Award from Chief Tom Sousa. JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

Jeff Philips receives the Firefighter of the Year award from Chief Tom Sousa

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

Richard Losek, receives the Officer of the Year award from Chief Tom Sousa.

Administrative Assistant Julie Kichar was recognized by Chief Tom Sousa for 20 years of service.

to Julie being here. She actually runs the place,” Sousa said. Robert Haygood was promoted to First Class Firefighter. His wife, Jessica, unpinned his badge and his mom, Cheryl Haygood, pinned his new badge to his uniform. Zac Benshoff and Derek Bill were recognized for five years of service. Frank Agresta, Alex Flores and Andrew Powers were promoted to third

class firefighters and Branden Baserva, Danielle Burton, Matthew Frey, Richard Johnson, Clayton Lease, Sean Morrisey and Benjamin Stasurek were recognized for one year of service as reserve firefighters. Financial assistant Ana Reyes was recognized for one full year of service.

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FUN IN THE SUN

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64 Farm's remote acreage 66 French sweetie 67 Inland Asian sea 68 Eve's opposite 69 Frankfurt's state 70 Lowdown 71 Soon, to a bard Down 1 Billy Joel creations 2 Trapped on a branch 3 Signs of boredom 4 "Is there something __?" 5 Software trial 6 Halloween mo. 7 Food for Miss Muffet 8 Needing company 9 Seattle athlete 10 Fast-cash spot, for short 11 "Money-back" assurance, perhaps 12 Carving tool 13 Ooze 18 Swear to be true 22 Bottom-row PC key 26 Dismiss with disdain Answers to 01-17-18 Crossword Puzzle.

28 Insultingly small, as a payment 29 "... or else!" remark 30 Instruct 31 Even on the scoreboard 32 Strong desires 33 Not exactly 34 Writer: Abbr. 35 Things to wash after dinner 40 __ rage: PED user's aggression 41 Very light rain 44 Grassland 48 Netherlands airline 49 "That's a shame" 50 Jubilant end-of-week cry 53 Ohio rubber city 54 Back in style 55 Swashbuckling Errol 56 __ Ness monster 57 Steady pain 59 Corn syrup brand 61 Unconscious state 63 Ambulance destinations: Abbr. 65 Golfer's hat

JANUARY 24, 2018

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FOR SALE

CNA/CMA ISLAND Resident. Home care for you or loved one. Also errands, Doctors appointments, housekeeping, Cooking etc. Call 941-374-1227

TOTAL HOME SERVICE CLEANING : Residential, Commercial & Rentals. Professional and Reliable. Call 941-756-4570

TICKETS for BEACH BOYS concert February 14 at the Van Wezel in Sarasota. $150 for pair. Sold out Show! Call 941-962-0940

ANNOUNCEMENTS THE BEST VOLUNTEER position on the island. The AMI Historical Museum needs docents and bread makers. Call Lynn at 813758-3234 or lbrennan47@ gmail.com

THOMPSON CLEANING SERVICE CommercialResidential-Marine. Island Based Company. Seasonal Deep Cleaning-Weekly-Occasional. Call for Free Estimate. 941-281-4951

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).

AUTHORITY ONE SERVICES. Residential/Commercial/Vacation Rentals & Construction Cleaning. Also Power Washing, Windows, Paver Sealing & Roof Cleaning. Ask about your Senior Citizens Discount Call 941-251-5948 or 941565-3931

AUTOMOTIVE SALES & SERVICE

COMMERCIAL SALES

BMW 330Ci CONVERTIBLE 2001. $5,400. Steel Blue Metallic, Dark Blue Top, Leather interior. Runs Great. 147K miles Call 339298-2003 2007 HONDA SILVERWING For Sale. One owner, 600 cc auto transmission motorcycle, 15,000 miles. Many additions, well maintained, garage kept. Excellent condition. $3400 Call 941-778-2553

BABY SITTER RED CROSS CERTIFIED baby sitter. Honor student. Call or text Isabel 941-5457995

BOATS: SALES & RENTALS BOATS ARE SELLING Very Well. Now’s The Time-Snowbirds Are Here “Business On A Hand Shake”. Island Boat Sales. 941-2283489

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

Call us today! 941-778-3986

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

SOFA & LOVESEAT. LEATHER, Forest Green $500. Call 941-792-0014

GARAGE, MOVING, RUMMAGE & YARD SALES ROSER THRIFT SHOP Open 9:30am-2pm, Tuesday, Thursday & Friday. 10am1pm Saturday Donations preferred 9am-11am Wednesdays. 511 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Phone 941-779-2733

HAULING SITE CLEAN-UP to trash outs we can handle it all. Call us for your dumpsters/ trash needs today 941-7538772

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

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

NOW HIRING Anna Maria Island Creamery & Bakery. 9801 Gulf Dr. Suites 1-3. Contact Shea Khalil via email Shea@amicreamery bakery.com FRONT DESK / HAIR / NAIL. New owners at established north end day spa. Flexible hours, relaxed environment. Call Amanda at 941-896-2222

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

RENOVATION SPECALIST ALL carpentry repairs, Wash Family Construction, locally owned and operated CBC 1258250 Call 941-7250073. KERN CONSTRUCTION NEW Homes & Remodel. Design/Build. Since 1968. License # CRC1327296. Call Jerry Kern 941-7781115 www.kernconstructioninc.com GET’R DONE DRYWALL, INC Specializing in Remodels & Repairs. Island Resident for 18 years. Call Neil Cell 941-962-1194 WALY PRECISION PAINTING: painting, drywall, stucco, and remodeling, commercial/residential, licensed & insured. Call 941-448-1928 or 941-4656324 www.WalyPrecisionPainting.us

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DECKOUT MASTER CARPENTER Everything Patio & Dock Decking Work Repair, Replace, Maintenance Work, Cleaning, Treatments, New Decks. Also Handyman/Painting work to home or office. Call RICHARD Bespoke Service 941-448-3571 Island Resident. STORM DAMAGE? Prompt Response. Tree work, Carpentry, Painting, Roof/ Fence Repair, Etc. Medium and Small Jobs Accepted. See ORANGE AD in Painting Section. Bill Witaszek 941-307-9315 HOME IMPROVEMENT Michigan General Contractor 30+ yrs. experience. Large or small projects. Budget minded knowledgeable tradesman will complete your project start to finish: On Time/On Budget. Call Mike 616-204-8822. FENCING, CAN'T GET ANYBODY? Wood, Vinyl. New or Repair. Call Richard. Free Estimates. 941-448-3571 Bespoke Services.

LANDSCAPING & LAWN CARE

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

LEGAL NOTICE

MOVING & STORAGE

NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE: NORMS TOWING gives Notice of Foreclosure of Lien and intent to sell these vehicles on 02/21/2018, 09:00 am at 1855 63RD AVENUE E. BRADENTON, FL 34203, pursuant to subsection 713.78 of the Florida Statutes. NORMS TOWING reserves the right to accept or reject any and/or all bids.

MARTIN’S MOVING YOUR Island movers! Offering dependable, competitive rates. No hidden costs. 941-809-5777.

1C3CDFBA8DD341465 2013 DODGE 1D4HB48DX4F123631 2004 DODGE 1G6DP567850102350 2005 CADILLAC 1GBE4V1G07F425099 2007 GLAVAL 1HGEM22135L029074 2005 HONDA 1LNLM81W1NY723685 1992 LINCOLN 4T1BF1FK4CU061382 2012 TOYOTA 4USCH9335XLF79511 1999 BMW JNKCV54E85M405426 2005 INFINITI

LOST & FOUND WATCH TURNED IN to the police department which was found on the beach. Turned in on Jan. 7th. Call Detective Brian Hall 941708-5800 ext 243. LOST 18" DIAMOND CHAIN NECKLACE with my grand mother's diamond in center – REWARD Call 267454-0725 FOUND WEDDING RING October 2 in Holmes Beach. To Rayburn with love Kathy. Call 941-9008226 LOST ENGAGEMENT RING. Solitaire white gold. Lost on 10/22/2017. Call 770712-8819 FOUND NECKLACE PENDANT near Anna Maria Post office. Call 941-7733182 LOST GOLD BRACELET with toggle clasp & charm with 50th anniversary engraved. Sentimental value. Lost in vicinity of Palm Ave. in Anna Maria. Call 407-8730078. LOST MY GRANDMOTHER'S gold wedding band (initials inside and date) at Coquina Beach area. Reward. Call 407-579-1621

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

PAINTING & WALLCOVERING PAINT! PAINT! AND MORE 28 years of experienced interior/exterior custom painting. Pressure cleaning, drywall repairs and texture finishes. Many Island references. Please call Neil for free estimates. 941-812-0507 “WIZARD OF WALLS” Established 1980 Prompt quality service. Paperhanging/removal Faux finishes. Interior painting. Mary Bell Winegarden 941-794-0455 PROFESSIONAL PAINTING SERVICES. Prompt & Reliable. Meticulous, Thorough, Quality Workmanship. Interior/Exterior. Also minor repairs & carpentry. Free written detailed estimates. Bill Witaszek 941-307-9315 BAYSIDE COMMERCIAL PAINTING. David Padyani Call 941-565-9446 or Larry Zimmer 941-2248123 Licensed & Insured

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

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POOL SERVICES

COLE'S TROPICAL POOL SERVICE Call Cole Bowers for all your pool maintenance needs! Affordable and Dependable!! 941-7131893

PRINTING CUSTOM DIGITAL PRINTING "Your printing dream to reality" Specializing in Dye sublimation Printing. Graphic Design. Performance Active ware. Logo Design. Call Rhonda 330-550-4847

PROFESSIONAL PRESSURE & WINDOW WASHING AUTHORITY ONE CLEANING : Residential, Commercial, Construction and Vacation Rentals . Also available Power Washing, Roof Cleaning and Windows. Call 941-251-5948

REAL ESTATE HOMES & CONDOS FOR SALE

FROM THE LOW $300’s. Only minutes from the beach, this new active adult community is perfectly located just south of Manatee Ave, off Village Green Pkwy. Perfectly designed, open 2BR or 3BR/2BA plus den & 2CG floor plans. Luxurious amenities, pool, spa, gym, pickle ball and fenced-in dog park. HOA only $209/ month. Models open daily. Contact us 941254-3330 www.MirabellaFlorida.com 113 BEACH AVE 3BR/3BA Pool Home. Great location West of Gulf Drive with Direct beach access! $1,055,000 Call Charles Buky Coldwell Banker 941228-6086 CANAL FRONT HOMES Holmes Bch - Key Royale GULF FRONT CONDOS Gulf Place, La Casa L’Plage, Waters Edge & MORE. Island Real Estate ASK Alan Galletto 941-232-2216

Call us today! 941-778-3986

SLIGHTLY OFF THE ISLAND. 3BR/2BA completely renovated lake house, five miles from the beach. No Condo/HOA Fees, No Deed Restrictions, No Traffic, Huge Boat/RV Storage Area, No Flood Insurance. $319,500. www.690932nd.com. For Sale By Owner. 941-795-5225 PERICO BAY CLUB! Light & bright 2BR/2BA With high ceilings & updated kitchen! $212,000. Island Real Estate- Call Kathleen White 941-7730165. FOR SALE ADORABLE half duplex Anna Maria. ! Walk to Beach eating shopping. . Brenda Boyd May Boyd Realty . 941-730-8589 $399,000 . $359,000 THE PERFECT HOUSE 3BR/2BA pool beautiful yard !!! Two blocks to the causeway! Bike to the island!! Great VRBO neighborhood! Call soon. Scott May 941-2388377 Boyd Realty WHITNEY BEACH CONDO: 1BR/1BA $299,000. Intercoastal side Call for an appointment. 941-993-4365. Presented by Suzanne Wilson, Broker-Associate, Wagner Realty 941-9620971 PERICO ISLAND 2BR/2BA Condo Great Water Views. $283,900. Sharon Hightower RE/ MAX Alliance Group. Call 941-330-5054 PERICO BAY TOTAL remodel of 2BR/2BA, tiled throughout, gorgeous kitchen and bath, updated plumbing and electric, vacant $229,000 Call 551-427-0248 UNIQUE OPPORTUNITY TO OWN 2 side by side mixed use Condo units. Use as Light Retail, Office or Residential Vacation Rental (nightly rentals permitted) located directly on Gulf Drive in Bradenton Beach. $178,000 per unit. Each unit is 416 sq ft. Joe 631-678-1810

JANUARY 24, 2018

REAL ESTATE: LOT FOR SALE

2018 SEASONAL RENTALS Available: 2BR/1BA Gulf front from $3,850 per month, 2BR with sleeping loft from $3,850 per month. Three month minimum. Horizon Realty of Anna Maria 941-778-0426 kringco@tampabay.rr.com

BAY VIEW LOT ! Across from Anna Maria Park. $440,000 Brenda Boyd May broker 941-730-8589

RENTALS: ANNUAL

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

ANNUAL RENTALS WANTED! We have well qualified tenants for beach and mainland annual rentals, Full management or Finders fee. Call today for details. Ask for Ed DUNCAN REAL ESTATE 941-779-0304 www.teamduncan.com

MARCH 2018. 878 N Shore near Rod & Reel Pier. 3BR/2BA fully equipped. remodeled cottage. $4200/March + taxes & security. Call 863-4128198

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.

VACATION RENTALMARCH 2018- CANCELLATION. Cottage West of Gulf Drive. 3BR/3BA $4,680/mo + taxes/fees. Fran Maxon Real Estate 941-778-2307

ANNUAL RENTAL HOLMES BEACH 2BR/1.5BA, carport, storage, W/D hookups $1,450/mo, Non-Smoking. Fran Maxon Real Estate 941-778-2307.

HOLMES BEACH LOVELY 1/2 Duplex 2BR/1.5BA. Fully equipped. Short walk to Beach. Beautiful private back yard. February $3000 March $3500. Call 845-206-3930

2BR/2BA TOWNHOUSE with a 1 car garage at Palma Sola Trace. Available immediately. Call A Paradise at 941-778-4800 Coming soon a 3BR/2BA and a 1B NEW email R/1BA. Call for information

VACATION RENTAL BOOK Now for January 2019. 2BR/2.5BA Condo. Heated pool & spa. Garage. AMI $1400/wk. January 5-26. Rent one, two or three weeks. Call 717-324-6695

BRADENTON WEST SIDE: DUPLEX 3BR/1BA, car port, W/D hookup, all tile 4715-B 34th St W $1050/ mo Available now. First, Last, one month security. Credit check required. One year lease. No dogs. Call 941-809-2488

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 941704-7525 or 941-778-1915

TRANSPORTATION AMI TAXI metered-on-callcards accepted. Airport: Tampa $95, Sarasota $40, Clearwater $85, Orlando $165. Call 800-301-4816. amitaxi4u@gmail.com, www.amitaxi.com ANYTIME TRANSPORTATION to all airports, appointments, casino, cruises, etc. Tampa $60. Sarasota $30. Pets welcome. Very dependable. Reasonable rates. Contact Jeanne. 941-779-5095 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 ROGER'S AIRPORT SERVICE. Tampa, St. Pete/ Clearwater, Sarasota/ Bradenton. Call Roger 941773-1469

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JANUARY 24, 2018

BUSINESS & SERVICE DIRECTORY COMPUTER SERVICE

HOME IMPROVEMENT

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

HAULING

PAINTING

HOME IMPROVEMENT

TRANSPORTATION HOME SITTING / PET SITTING

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JANUARY 24, 2018