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VOL 15 No. 28

May 13, 2015

Peggy Meyers: ‘We won’ The post office boxes will stay in Holmes Beach after a grass roots effort and a Congressman’s help. BY PAT COPELAND SUN STAFF WRITER | pcopeland@amisun.com

PAT COPELAND | SUN

HOLMES BEACH – Her voice said it all. “We won,” declared Peggy Meyers on Tuesday. That’s the day she got the e-mail from USPS (United States Post Office) officials stating, “Based on traffic issues, lack of parking at the USPS branches and the additional information that was presented at the community meeting, your We proved request to add PO boxes to the our case Holmes Beach CPU (contract postal unit) is granted.” easily, and “We proved our case easily, and they did the right thing,” they did the Meyers said. “I am pleased that the USPS right thing.” will maintain full service in Holmes Beach and continue to provide residents in our area Peggy Meyers with convenient, efficient postal Contract holder service,” U.S. Congressman Vern Buchanan said. The issue began when contract holders Meyers and Jack Jackson said they planned to retire, and USPS officials said they could keep the CPU, but not the 230

Above, the banner at the Holmes Beach Post Office announces the victory. Below, Peggy Meyers and Jack Jackson are all smiles after the USPS decision.

see boxes, page 31

Recall election heads for finish line Registered city voters who have not voted by mail can vote in person at the Annie Silver Community Center from 7 a.m. until 7 p.m. on Tuesday, May 19. BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

BRADENTON BEACH – The outcome of the recall election now lies in the hands of the city voters who will

INSIDE NEWS OPINION Sun survey outdoors sports restaurants Real estate Classified

4 6 7 22-24 25 26-27 28-32 36-39

determine whether Mayor Bill Shearon remains in office or is replaced by Vice Mayor Jack Clarke. Shearon’s supporters have now exhausted the legal and administrative challenges they presented in their unsuccessful efforts to have Clarke removed from the ballot. On Tuesday, May 5, Judge Gilbert Smith denied John Metz’s request for a temporary injunction that would have halted the election. When issuing his verbal order, Smith said Metz failed to meet the burden of proof.

VOTE ONLINE AT AMISUN.COM! Participate in The Sun’s survey on the recall election. Details on Page 7.

Afterwards Clarke said, “I’m gratified by the court’s decision. I can now focus 100 percent on what I anticipate will be a successful campaign. I cannot speak highly enough of Attorney Mogensen and her paralegal Mr. Barfield. They provided the best possible representa-

tion in this case.” On Friday, Smith followed up with a written order that said the court could only issue an injunction if the requesting party demonstrated a likelihood of irreparable harm, unavailability of an adequate legal remedy, a substantial likelihood of the original suit succeeding on its merits and considerations of the public interest that supported an injunction. see recall, page 33

sea grape

stormwater: City does about

Holmes Beach police launch investigation. 11

face on charging county. 10

slashing:

Anna Maria Island, Florida

Recall opponents face off in Bradenton Beach forum. 3

The Island’s award-winning weekly newspaper

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THE SUN

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MAY 13, 2015

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THE SUN

Recall forum held On Tuesday, May 19, city voters will determine who serves as mayor until November.

to have him removed from the recall ballot.

Current challenges

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

BRADENTON BEACH – Recall election candidates Mayor Bill Shearon and Vice Mayor Jack Clarke squared off Wednesday night in a forum hosted by the League of Women Voters of Manatee County. The political rivals spent an hour answering questions posed by moderator Ashley Brown, with Rosalie Shaffer providing orientation and Paula Roberts serving as timer. Approximately 30 people attended the event at city hall and sat in geographical proximity to their candidate of choice.

Opening salvos

During opening statements, Clarke said, “It is not true that the events of the past month are part of a personal grand plan to seize the power and prestige of the mayor’s office. It would have been easier for me to wait and wage a traditional campaign if being the mayor was my goal, but I see our city sinking by the day, slowly spiraling downward into disaster. “Employee morale is non-existent as they

joe hendricks | sun

Vice Mayor Jack Clarke came out swinging during opening statements. Mayor Bill Shearon listed his accomplishment when delivering his opening statement. contend daily with the mayor’s hands-on approach to administration. Photo ops, media releases and proclamations from the mayor’s office promote a rosy, if skewed, picture. "In truth, the city is dying from the inside out, as an apple from the core. This is not sustainable and cannot wait another six months,” Clarke concluded. “I’m going to take a little different approach and share some of the accomplishments that have been made in the last year and a half,” Shearon said. “One being the city pier, another being the global settlement, increased financial stability for the city, a new computer system and Website and converting a parking lot into a park. The pier was completed on time

and below budget, which is very rare for any city,” he said, also mentioning citizen-funded renovations to John Chappie Park. Shearon said the global settlement addressed five lawsuits and involved parties had signed off on the agreements. Clarke said later it addresses four lawsuits, all of which involve Shearon and/or his significant other, and the conditional agreements had not yet been signed by all parties involved. According to City Attorney Ricinda Perry, the unsigned agreements were not all signed until the following day. When Shearon proclaimed the city free of lawsuits for the first time in decades, Clarke cited the pier tenant eviction still in progress and the lawsuit John Metz filed in an attempt

Addressing the greatest challenges facing the city in the next six months, Shearon said, “The main challenge is to get us ourselves all back on one page. This recall and the forfeiture process has been very disruptive. We have to work on our financial situation; we can’t keep spending excessive funds and resources by using our reserves.” Clarke said, “We have to speak the truth, abandon the rhetoric and make sure everything we say is factually correct. We need to take care of our employees, restore morale and have staff operating without a heavy hand directing every move. If we go in that direction, by November we’ll be in good shape.” In rebuttal, Shearon said, “I don’t feel we have a problem with staff. I have no authority to hire, fire, discipline or direct people. I object to the idea to the idea that I’m bullying or mismanaging things.”

Morale problem?

When asked if city staff had a morale problem, Clarke cited three hostile workplace complaints involving Shearon, a pending see forum, page 17

THE SUN

ISLAND NEWS

Waste Pro to hold registration

Fewer road projects around According to the Florida Department of Transportation, the only current project is maintenance on the Longboat Key Bridge. Drivers can expect intermittent north and southbound lane closures from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday, May 22, through Tuesday, May 26; Thursday, May 28, through Thursday, June 4; Friday, June 5; and Tuesday, June 9. Drivers are advised to use caution and expect delays.

Kiwanis talk Jayne Christenson, Chair of the Holmes Beach Traffic Congestion Committee, will present at the AMI Kiwanis Club’s May 16, 8:30 breakfast meeting an overview of her committee’s parking changes proposed to the Holmes Beach City Commission. AMI Kiwanis meets at the Anna Maria Island Beach Cafe, 4000 Gulf Blvd, Holmes Beach. The public is invited. Contact: Dave 748-8122

Pancake breakfast and Expo at Center Anna Maria Island Community Center will hold an all you can eat pancake breakfast on Saturday, May 16, from 8 to 11 a.m. The featured guest chef is Pastor Ed Moss, of CrossPointe Fellowship. In addition, there will be an expo in the gym for all the Center’s programs. Visitors can talk to the staff and take a tour of the building. The price for breakfast is $6 in advance and $8 at the door. Children 5 and under eat free. There is no charge for the Expo. For more information, call 778-1908

Anna Maria Island beaches soon will be safer with the addition of lifeguards from 4 to 7 p.m. from Memorial Day to Labor Day, county officials say. BY CINDY LANE SUN STAFF WRITER | clane@amisun.com

The Manatee County Commission has approved a budget change designed to fund three new lifeguard positions at Manatee Beach Park (formerly Manatee Public Beach) and Coquina Beach Park without running afoul of a state prohibition on using resort tax funds to pay for lifeguards. The positions will be funded by county general tax funds that were allocated for beach maintenance, County Administrator Ed Hunzeker said, explaining to commissioners that beach maintenance will now be funded by $575,000 in resort tax funds taken from the part of the resort tax budget allocated to beach renourishment and maintenance. As a result, the beach portion of the resort tax budget will now be devoted 100 percent to renourishment, he said. The majority of the resort tax budget remains allocated to tourism marketing. The county collects the resort tax from owners of accommodations rented for six months or less who charge the 5 percent tax to tourists, in addition to the 6.5 percent state sales tax. The budget shifting is necessary because county beaches need additional

Off-season hours are in effect at the Anna Maria Island Historical Museum, 402 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Hours are Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. The museum is located in the historical complex that includes Belle Haven Cottage and the surrounding native plant garden.

File photo

Three new lifeguards will hit the beach soon, thanks to the county’s creative accounting. lifeguard coverage beyond the current 4 p.m. closing time, but state law does not allow the county to use resort taxes to fund lifeguards, Hunzeker said. Despite that widely-held perception, Okaloosa County officials in northwest Florida used $1.2 million in resort tax funds to pay for lifeguards from February 2013 through July 2014, according to an audit of the county’s finances by the Florida Auditor General’s office, which questioned the usage. Okaloosa County officials responded to the audit, writing that they used the money for lifeguards after several drownings prompted concerns about safety and tourism. “The provision of a safe beach is an essential component of promoting the area as a family tourist destination,” the response states, adding that two consulting law firms concluded

that using resort tax revenues for lifeguards was permissible under state law if the county’s primary purpose for providing lifeguards is related to promoting tourism. The dispute remains unresolved. Anna Maria Island beaches soon will be safer with the addition of lifeguards from 4 to 7 p.m. from Memorial Day to Labor Day, later than the current hours, Manatee County Marine Rescue Division Capt. Joe Westerman said. “If we are actively working rip currents and have crowds, we can hold the lifeguard over until sunset,” which can be past 8 p.m., he said. Able-bodied, experienced lifeguards should apply to Manatee County at www.mymanatee.org. The salary range listed on the Website is $24,481$37,315 a year.

Resort tax funds approved for Island, Cortez BY CINDY LANE SUN STAFF WRITER | clane@amisun.com

Museum hours change

MAY 13, 2015

County approves funds for new lifeguards

in brief

Waste Pro officials will hold a registration session for Holmes Beach residents on Saturday, May 16, from 9 a.m. to noon at city hall. Waste Pro will take over the city’s solid waste and recycling collection on June 1. At the session, residents can sign up for service and ask questions about the service that will be offered. The information also is available on the Holmes Beach Website holmesbeachfl.org

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

The Manatee County Commission has voted to spend more than $380,000 in resort tax funds on Gulf Front Park and the Anna Maria Island Historical Museum in Anna Maria, Grassy Point Preserve in Holmes Beach and the Florida Maritime Museum in Cortez. The city of Anna Maria will receive $77,000 to remove trash and

invasive plants, such as century cactus, Brazilian pepper and mother-inlaw tongue, at Gulf Front Park, and replace them with native plants. The Anna Maria Island Historical Museum will receive $25,000 to relocate its main entrance to Pine Avenue and provide disabled access. The city of Holmes Beach will receive $100,000 to build an elevated boardwalk at Grassy Point Preserve between East Bay Drive and the parking lot.

The Florida Maritime Museum at Cortez will receive $180,548 to complete interior renovations to the Burton store, including exhibit space and a research library upstairs, and expand the Pillsbury boat shop. Anna Maria Island’s three cities generated an average 45.6 percent of Manatee County’s $10.6 million in resort tax collections in 2014, according to the Manatee County Tax Collector.

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MAY 13, 2015

THE SUN

CVB honors tourism boosters BY CINDY LANE SUN STAFF WRITER | clane@amisun.com

PALMETTO – A Bradenton Beach hotelier was among those who received a Champions of Tourism Award at the annual Tourism Week luncheon last week at the convention center. Barbara Rodocker, owner of Silver Surf Gulf Beach Resort and Bridge Walk, who is leaving the Manatee County Tourist Development Council (TDC) after 23 years, received a Tourism Ambassador Award from TDC Chair Vanessa Baugh. “Barbara has been a true leader, mentor and ambassador for not only our industry, but for me personally,” Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau (CVB) Director Elliott Falcione said. Also honored as a Tourism Ambassador was John Horne, owner of the Anna Maria Oyster Bar in Bradenton. Tourism Partner of the Year was Trevor Gooby, senior director of Florida operations for the Pittsburgh Pirates. Criteria for the awards include achievements, economic impact to the community and the leadership shown by an individual.

Falcione announced the recipients at an agri-tourism-themed luncheon, with 80 percent of the food from local farms, saying that agriculture is the number two industry behind tourism in the county.

and has capped the number of tourism beds allowed, requiring prospective vacation rental owners to wait in line for permits until another accommodations business closes.

Sustainable tourism trends

County planning official John Osborne told attendees that several areas in the county have been preapproved for hotel development; up to 2,000 more rooms can be added to the county’s current 6,200 rooms, he said. The new hotel rooms are approved for the urban core (downtown Bradenton area), Lakewood Ranch and Lake Flores, the planned development on 75th Street West between Cortez Road and 53rd Avenue West, and will slow the redevelopment of multi-bedroom vacation rentals on Anna Maria Island, Falcione said.

Florida is second in the country in tourism after New York, said David Randle, managing director of USF’s Sustainable Tourism Program, but its roads cannot keep up, nor can its underwater reefs, water supplies, fisheries, wetlands and forests, he said. Walt Disney World leads the state in sustainable tourism practices, Randle said, with programs to reduce carbon emissions, including imposing a carbon tax on businesses within the company, projects to conserve species, including gorillas and cotton top monkeys, a notoxic-chemical policy in Disney’s Animal Kingdom and the establishment of Disney’s Wilderness Preserve. Sheraton in San Diego has a zerowaste-to-landfill policy and Marriott is reducing its e-waste, he said. Some tourism-based island countries are addressing sustainability also, he

Hotel rooms approved

SUBMITTED | BRADENTON AREA CONVENTION AND VISITORS BUREAU

Manatee County Tourist Development Council Chair Vanessa Baugh presented outgoing TDC member and Bradenton Beach hotelier Barbara Rodocker a Champions of Tourism Award at the Tourism Week luncheon last week. said. St Lucia stores rainwater in two 8,000-gallon containers to serve tourists, while Bermuda employs rooftop water collection on all tourist buildings,

Tourism up

Tourism in Manatee County has increased four years in a row, with 2.9 million visitors in 2014, according to CVB statistics, which also show that

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OPINION

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

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MAY 13, 2015

EDITORIAL Time for a change

he intensity in the city of Bradenton Beach has been ratcheting up lately as the mayoral recall election on May 19 draws near and the rhetoric starts to fly. It makes one wonder how it all came to this and how it might have gone differently. Without question, a large portion of the blame lies squarely in the camp of Mayor Bill Shearon. When he won his third try to become mayor, Shearon came in and started shaking things up at city hall in the guise of reform. All of a sudden, the city was going through clerks at seemingly warp speed. It appeared to some that the new mayor and his female partner, Tjet Martin, were there to save the city from losing the beach across the street to plans for additional parking by the land’s owner. Soon Ed Chiles was locked in a legal battle so he could continue using that property as he had for years. The war between Chiles and Shearon got really nasty when the mayor reportedly told the code enforcement officer to get dirt on Chiles and cite him for something - anything. The officer refused to do that and reported it to the city attorney. Things got worse until vice mayor Jack Clarke stepped up and called for a recall. Over the months, the city became even more polarized as people took sides for either Shearon or Clarke. But from the beginning, the city’s staff made it clear, with complaint after complaint, that they did not support the mayor. This was not whining by some disgruntled employees calling for more pay and less work. It was basically everyone from department heads to secretaries expressing serious concerns about how city hall was being run. Meanwhile, the city began racking up some stupendous legal bills from lawsuits – some of which were instituted by Shearon and Martin and which were completely unnecessary. In turn, Shearon has alienated the business community in Bradenton Beach to the point that some business owners fear they are being targeted for selective code enforcement just because they oppose the mayor. To be sure, working for a small city SEE EDITORIAL, PAGE 7

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Parking plan wrong-headed I have been a resident of Perico Island for the past 17 years. During that time my wife and I have frequented Holmes Beach on average two or three times a week. Most often we love to go to the beach. Our favorite spot is across from Anna Maria Elementary School on 48th Street. And yes, we always park in the right of way. I have never dropped a dirty diaper or a used condom or left the contents of my trash bin anywhere on Anna Maria Island. I have never seen the horrible descriptions that some local residents claim pollutes their property. To tell you the truth, I have hardly ever seen any litter on the Island. My relationship to Holmes Beach extends beyond the beaches. My family doctor is here in Holmes Beach. My dentist is here in Holmes Beach. My pharmacy is here. My bank is here; my grocery store, my hardware store, and yes, my bagel shop is here. My public library is here. My fire station is here. I have purchased a number of memorial bricks in the Holmes Beach butterfly garden. In a sense then, my family members

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

are permanent residents of Holmes Beach. I have frequented the restaurants of Holmes Beach from the Old Hamburg Schnitzel Haus to Sean Murphy’s Beach Bistro. I pay taxes to Manatee County and to the state of Florida via the sales tax. My taxes are used for beach renourishment and for the infrastructure of Holmes Beach maintenance by Manatee County. I consider the proposed action to eliminate parking by non residents of Holmes Beach on the public property called the right of way illegal, unfriendly, and immoral. In her discussions of parking in Holmes beach, the woman who is advocating the issuance of parking permits solely to residents of Holmes Beach has condescendingly suggested that everyone else can use the 347 parking slots at the county beach, as if these slots were hers to allocate. Ironically, if her proposal is approved, residents of Holmes Beach could continue to use the Manatee County Beach if they want a beach with lifeguards, a restaurant, a shop, toilets and showers. The rest of us would be excluded from the rest of the beaches adjacent to Holmes Beach. Should

Layout Ricardo Fonseca

Outdoors editor Rusty Chinnis

Reporters Pat Copeland Cindy Lane Tom Vaught Joe Hendricks

Ad director Chantelle Lewin Ad assistant Chris Boniberger

Columnists Louise Bolger

Classified ads Bob Alexander

her proposal become an ordinance, I can assure you of the following: You will have more lawsuits than you can imagine. A neighbor has told me the day this ordinance goes into effect, he will park in the right of way on Holmes Beach. When he gets ticketed, he will initiate a lawsuit. He’s a retired lawyer. Should the politicians enact this proposal, I will have to find somewhere else to spend my money. I realize my personal boycott will have little effect on the well-being of Holmes Beach businesses. But my homeowners association has already asked me to express its protest against this proposed action. Should you enact this ordinance, I will ask my association to propose that all homeowners in our association boycott Holmes Beach. I will contact the homeowners association at the Perico Bay Club and solicit their support. I will also contact as many homeowners associations in Manatee County as possible and seek further support to boycott Holmes Beach. Excluding non residents from the beaches of Holmes Beach is a bad idea.

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

SEE LETTERS, PAGE 7

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

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MAY 13, 2015

THE SUN

the sun survey

on the agenda

LAST WEEK’S QUESTION: What is your opinion of Holmes Beach withholding funding for the Community Center?

Anna Maria

18%

It was an ill-timed move that could cost Center workers their jobs.

For information, call 7781005.

10005 Gulf Drive

5/14: City Commission meeting and work session, 6 p.m. 5/18: Environmental Education and Enhancement Committee, 4 p.m. For information, call 7086130.

Bradenton Beach 107 Gulf Drive N.

5/13: Planning and Zoning board, 1 p.m. 5/14: Department head meeting, 1 p.m. 5/14: Charter Review Committee, 3 p.m. 5/18: Special magistrate variance request, 9 a.m. 5/21: City Commission meeting, noon.

Holmes Beach 5801 Marina Drive

5/14: Neighborhood Watch training session # 2, 5:30 p.m. 5/14: City Commission work session, 7 p.m. 5/16: Waste Pro registration, 9 a.m. to noon. For information, call 7085800.

Island-wide

5/20: Coalition of Barrier Island Elected Officials, Holmes Beach City Hall, 2 p.m. 5/21: West Manatee Fire Commission meeting, 6417 Third Ave. W., Bradenton, 6 p.m.

mark your calendar

82%

\Note: Events are free unless indicated.

I like the decision because the Center board hasn't been forthcoming with details of the proposed fitness facility.

THIS WEEK’S SURVEY

The mayoral recall election in Bradenton Beach May 19 is:

Wednesday May 13

Chair yoga, Anna Maria Island Art League, 5312 Holmes Blvd., Holmes Beach, 11:45 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., $8. Register to 941-778-2099. SHINE Medicare enrollment, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2 p.m. AMI Community Connections fellowship, AMI Community Center, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria, 2 p.m.

• A good idea. • A bad idea.

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

Friday

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

May 15

View The Sun’s online edition at www.issuu.com/AnnaMariaIslandSun editorial FROM PAGE 6

government has its ups and downs. Employees have to adjust to new mayors and commissioners and you never know when one of them will decide to clean house. Mayor Shearon has admitted to having a hot temper and suggests people should just get used to it. Hardly a professional approach. And while we believe recalling an elected official should always be the last resort, the election nevertheless is before the people of Bradenton Beach. It’s time to make a choice. Vote for the recall and for Jack Clarke.

LETTERS FROM PAGE 6

Let’s face it, this proposed action is not the solution to a parking problem. This is a bold-faced, arrogant attempt to transform the public beaches adjacent to Holmes Beach into the private playground of HB residents. I wonder how the inland residents of Holmes Beach feel about being taxed to park in their own right of way, just so beachfront residents can enjoy a private beach. I urge you to pressure your politicians to seek other solutions. If there really is a park-

ing problem, why not increase police surveillance and take action against offenders. The truth is that Holmes Beach, like the rest of us who live along the two roadways to the beaches, is experiencing a traffic flow problem, not a parking problem. The only thing this proposal will buy you is ill will and outrage, and perhaps a loss of business. Can you imagine what the result of such action will be on tourism in the area? Ed Siemaszko Perico Island

Senior Adventures travels to Mote Marine Aquarium, meet at Annie Silver Community Center, 103 23rd St. N., Bradenton Beach, 10 a.m. Spring Fling fundraiser for Anna Maria Elementary School, Seafood Shack Marina Bar and Grill, 4110 127th St. W., Cortez, 6 to 11 p.m., $50.

Saturday May 16

Pancake breakfast, Anna Maria Island Community Center, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria, 8 to 11 a.m., $6 advance, $8 at door. AMI Community Center Expo, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria, 9 to 11 a.m. Meditation, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive,

Holmes Beach, 11 a.m. Sunset cruise to benefit DeSoto National Memorial, Bridge Street Pier, 7:30 p.m., $35.

Sunday May 17

Beach Market, Coquina Beach, Bradenton Beach, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Monday May 18

Chair yoga, Anna Maria Island Art League, 5312 Holmes Blvd., Holmes Beach, 11 to 11:45 a.m., $8. Register to 941-778-2099. Social bridge games, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, noon.

Tuesday May 19

Duplicate bridge, Church of the Annunciation, 4408 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, 12:30 p.m.

Wednesday May 20

Kayaking for first timers, Robinson Preserve, 99th Street Northwest and 17th Avenue Northwest, Bradenton, 9 a.m. to noon. Reserve to 941-742-5757, ext. 7. Chair yoga, Anna Maria Island Art League, 5312 Holmes Blvd., Holmes Beach, 11:45 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., $8. Register to 941778-2099.

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THE SUN

MAY 13, 2015

Cortez cleans up mangrove shores BY CINDY LANE SUN STAFF WRITER | clane@amisun.com

CORTEZ – About 28 volunteers cleaned up the mangroves around Sarasota Bay on Saturday during Fishing for Freedom’s First Annual Fishermen’s Cleanup at Cortez Bait and Seafood. They filled a dumpster with an estimated 6,000 pounds of trash, judging by the weight on the boats, organizer Mark Coarsey said, adding that he’s going to keep some of the old glass bottles he found. Bags and bags of fishing line were retrieved around Bird Key with Audubon Society volunteers, he said. Bird Key is the island preserve in Sarasota Bay just south of the Cortez fishing village where pelicans and other shorebirds nest. Discarded fishing line ensnares birds, which then often die, entangled in the mangroves where they nest. They also disposed of an abandoned remnant of a boat near Tidy Island. After the cleanup, the crews en-

CINDY LANE | SUN

Fishing for Freedom volunteers cleaned trash out of the mangroves off Cortez on Saturday and filled a dumpster with about 6,000 pounds of trash. CHANTELLE LEWIN | SUN

joyed a barbecue dinner at Swordfish Grill, with fresh fish supplied by Fishing for Freedom. The not-for-profit organization, made up of commercial fishermen and others, successfully brought

an appeal through the Florida court system to the Florida Supreme Court to reverse the 1995 state constitutional amendment banning gill nets. During the course of the case,

a judge temporarily lifted the net ban twice, but on appeal, the net ban was put back in place, prompting the appeal to the Florida Supreme Court, which has not yet ruled on the case.

MAY 13, 2015

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THE SUN

County stormwater fees recinded Properties owned by governments will be exempt from city stormwater fees. BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

BRADENTON BEACH – City commissioners did an about-face last week in regard to levying stormwater fees on county property located within the city limits. With County Administrator Ed Hunzeker in attendance, the commission unanimously voted in favor of amending the new stormwater ordinance that reverted back to the language originally proposed by City Engineer Lynn Burnett, which exempted city, county and state properties from stormwater fees. When addressing the commission Thursday evening during the second reading of the new stormwater ordinance passed on first reading last month, Burnett restated her previous recommendation that government properties be exempt. She also mentioned that she, Hunzeker, Mayor Bill Shearon and other city and county staff members met recently to discuss stormwater issues. A letter Hunzeker sent to Shearon after that city-county discussion estimated the county could have paid upwards of $132,000 had it been charged for its Leffis Key and Coquina Beach properties. Hunzeker did not address the commission, but provided comment as he exited city hall. “We’re very pleased. We’ve partnered with the city on a number of projects, and we’d like to keep that partnership going,” he said. “We have a long history of taking care of the stormwater issues on our properties, and we’ll continue to do that. Our capital improvement program includes a couple of million dollars for a project down there that’s going to include stormwater and landscaping. We’re very proud of our beaches and our relationship with the city, and we wouldn’t do anything to harm that.” During public comment, Sandpiper Resort Co-Op resident Doug LeFevre requested the 10-acre Sandpiper property be exempt from paying approximately $15,000 in annual stormwater fees. Supported later by Vice Mayor Jack Clarke, also a Sandpiper resident, LeFevre said the self-contained Sandpiper system installed at a cost of $142,000 and at no expense to the

joe hendricks | sun

County Administrator Ed Hunzeker and Karen Clarke listen to the city commission discuss county stormwater fees. city does not rely on the city system to mitigate stormwater runoff, drainage, retention and flooding. Clarke pointed out that the area in front of the Sandpiper Resort is always free of flooding and standing water. Commissioner Ed Straight chimed in and said, “Gulf Drive has flooded in the same places since I moved here in 1972.” Burnett said addressing Gulf Drive flooding is a priority, and she noted that Sandpiper residents use Gulf Drive to get to and from their homes and should therefore help offset some of the associated stormwater costs. Burnett also found some merit in LeFevre’s request. She told the commission Sandpiper not only handles its own stormwater, but also helps manage stormwater runoff from neighboring properties, which lessens the load on the city system. She encouraged LeFevre to readdress his request when the annual rates are established when the commission adopts an accompanying resolution that determines the dollar multiplier used to calculate fees based on the square footage of a property. Non-Sandpiper resident John Burns previously spoke in favor of a “religious approach” that treats all properties equal regardless of who owns them. Dovetailing on LeFevre’s request, Burns suggested individual property owners who have previously installed stormwater systems or intend to install infiltration trenches along their Gulf Drive boundaries also should receive some form of exemption. Burnett said allowing personal exemptions would negate the purpose of an ordinance designed to streamline the billing process by producing a one-size-fits-all approach that no longer factors in previously installed stormwater elements and improvements.

MAY 13, 2015

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MAY 13, 2015

THE SUN

Police investigate sea grape cutting Holmes Beach Det. Sgt. Brian Hall is currently conducting a criminal investigation of unauthorized sea grape trimming in the 4300 block of Second Avenue. According to Hall’s report, “On or about April 27, Jose Vivero hired Sunset Tree Service to trim the sea grape trees located on city property along the beach access and the neighboring property without permission from the city of Holmes Beach or the property owner at 4300 Second Ave. “Vivero had called the city to ask permission or have the city trim the trees on several occasions over the past two years. The request has been denied by the city each time.” Hall said the sea grapes

submitted

Above, the sea grape trees before they were cut. At right, Holmes Beach Police Chief Bill Tokajer and AMI Turtle Watch Director Suzi Fox watch as Det. Sgt. Brian Hall and Officer Joel Pierce take measurements. Pat copeland | Sun

were trimmed “approximately 60 feet westward down the beach,” and several trees were trimmed to half their height. “There are little to no leaves

left on the trees that were trimmed and cut down,” Hall noted. “All that remains are the trunks and large bare branches.”

Hall charged Vivero with criminal mischief and is investigating possible violations of the Marine Turtle Protection Act. He has con-

tacted the Florida Department of Environmental Protection regarding possible violations of environmental laws.

www.amisun.com

THE SUN

MAY 13, 2015

Builder stopped for lack of permit Shawn Kaleta owns the house where demolition was stopped Friday, but continued through the weekend. BY TOM VAUGHT SUN STAFF WRITER | tvaught@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA – On Friday,Code Enforcement Officer Gerry Rathvon red-tagged a project at 101 B Willow Ave., a property near the beach owned by developer Shawn Kaleta, because demolition was occurring without a permit. It appeared to Rathvon that Kaleta was trying to replace a deck and stairs on the house, which was previously involved in an infraction because the ground floor portion of the elevated house was reportedly used as a living area and disguised as a garage.

SUBMITTED | CITY OF ANNA MARIA

Above left, the photo taken Friday shows where the deck was taken down from the house at 101 B Willow Avenue. Above right, the photo taken Monday shows where a new deck was installed. After she red-tagged the project on Friday, when she returned Monday, the red tag was down. Rathvon said she might charge the owner with removing the red tag. In addition, it

appeared that work continued over the weekend, and on Monday, a new deck was up at the house. Rathvon said she was going to inform the Florida Depart-

ment of Environmental Protection about the infractions. “It’s on land that is seaward of the Florida Coastal Construction Control Line,” she said. When contacted, Kaleta said

he had no knowledge of the situation and deferred questions to his wife, Jennifer. A request to talk with her was left at the phone number he provided to The Sun.

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MAY 13, 2015

THE SUN

A Snooks Adams summer

ittle pirates came out to celebrate Snooks Adamsâ€™ Kidsâ€™ Day at Bayfront Park in Anna Maria. The day began when the Islandâ€™s first police chief, Snooks Adams, took a bunch of boys to the beach to celebrate

summer vacation. The Anna Maria Island Privateers now sponsor the event and they gave out gifts and led the kids in a series of games like searching for treasure, tossing rubber rats at a bucket and enjoying a water balloon toss.

tOM VAUGHT | SUN

Above, a group of pirates poses for the cameras aboard the Privateers' parade ship Skullywag. Below, a pirate with a balloon around his head has his sights set on a pizza, which was provided by Domino's on the Island.

tOM VAUGHT | SUN

Above left, a rubber rat flies through the air toward its target. Above right, Adylina Troiano, 2, wears beads with her trusty saber in her hand.

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MAY 13, 2015

Fire tax hike OK'd Over the past five years, the district has raised its assessment an average of 2.8 percent a year. BY PAT COPELAND SUN STAFF WRITER | pcopeland@amisun.com

BRADENTON – West Manatee Fire Commissioners recently approved a 2 percent tax rate increase for 2015-16 after attending a budget work session held by then incoming Fire Chief Tom Sousa. Sousa opened the work session by telling board members, “At board meetings, I don’t really get a chance to talk about what we actually do. This is a snapshot of 2014. “We ran 2,046 emergency runs, and medical responses were the majority of our work with 1,328. We had 52 fires, but 27 were actual structure fires, the majority out of Station 4 in Bradenton.” He said the district’s operating budget is $5,896,244 and the year 'round population is 26,500. There are 42 firefighters and 30 reservists. He said the district’s core services include service delivery, fire suppression, first response, fire inspection, public education, marine fire/rescue, beach water rescue and plans reviews/construction inspections.

Future needs

He said in three to five years, they should think

about adding one firefighter to the Island’s threeman crew, so “if we had a fire in town, we could send two men and leave two.” The approximate cost of a firefighter would be $78,000 including benefits, he said, and there is a federal program that pays for a firefighter for two years. He said he also would like to look at enhanced EMS delivery if the numbers of calls with firefighters arriving before EMS start to increase. “That doesn’t mean adding staff; it means training staff and adding some equipment,” he pointed out. “We could do advanced ALS procedures while waiting for the ambulance. That means saving lives.” There are 19,790 parcels in the district with little growth. Since the district receives assessments on these parcels and not ad valorem taxes, it means the district must increase its tax rate to get additional funds. “We’re limited by Florida statute on how we raise our assessment,” he explained. “It says we can only raise our assessment no greater that the average of the last five years of personal income growth (PIG) in the state.” Over the past five years, the district has raised its assessment an average of 2.8 percent a year. It has never gone to the maximum rate. He said the PIG this year is 4.02 percent, and he recommended a 2 percent tax assessment raise.

TOM VAUGHT | SUN

They’re off! Runners take off in the Turtle Stroll 5-K run and walk to benefit Manatee County United Way held at Coquina Beach. According to Trisha Lampe, of Manatee County Parks and Preserves, the race was formerly held at Robinson Preserve, but officials decided to try it at Coquina Beach in the sand. The event was a fund-raiser for United Way of Manatee County.

We’re rolling out improvements! Effective June 1, 2015, Waste Pro will be the new solid waste and single stream recycling provider for the residents and businesses in City of Holmes Beach.

Sign up for Service! Sign up online by visiting www.holmesbeachfl.org to ensure proper location and billing addresses. Sign up forms are also available at City Hall.

Save the date! Join us on Saturday, May 16th from 9:00am-12:00pm at City Hall. Waste Pro representatives will be available to assist you in signing up for service.

Cart Delivery: A friendly reminder that carts will be delivered the last week of May (5/26/15-5/30/15). Each resident will receive one 64 gallon cart for solid waste and one 64 gallon cart for single stream recycling.

Collection Schedule: Monday & Friday: Solid Waste Tuesday: Single Stream Recycling* ---Wednesday: Yard Waste

NEW DAY

*Single Stream Recycling is an easier and expanded recycling program! Place all recyclables in your blue 64 gallon cart – no separating needed!

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MAY 13, 2015

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EAT LIKE A LOCAL DineOriginal.com 15 South Ristorante â€˘ Andreaâ€™s â€˘ Anna Maria Oyster Bar â€˘ Beach House â€˘ The Bijou CafĂŠ â€˘ Bridge Street Bistro â€˘ The Broken Egg â€˘ CafĂŠ Americano â€˘ CafĂŠ Baci â€˘ CafĂŠ Gabbiano â€˘ CafĂŠ Lâ€™Europe â€˘ CafĂŠ Venice â€˘ Caragiulos â€˘ Cedar Reef Fish Camp â€˘ Ciao! Italia â€˘ Cosimoâ€™s Restaurant & Catering â€˘ The Crowâ€™s Nest â€˘ Darwinâ€™s on 4th â€˘ Derekâ€™s â€˘ Drunken Poet CafĂŠ â€˘ Duvalâ€™s â€˘ Euphemia Haye â€˘ Fast N Fresh â€˘ Gold Rush BBQ â€˘ Gulf Drive CafĂŠ + Tiki â€˘ Half Shell Seafood House â€˘ Harryâ€™s Continental Kitchens â€˘ JPAN Restaurant â€˘ Lobster Pot â€˘ Lynches Pub & Grub â€˘ Madfish Grill â€˘ Mar Vista Dockside Restaurant & Pub â€˘ Michael Johnâ€™s â€˘ Michaelâ€™s On East â€˘ mi Pueblo â€˘ Opheliaâ€™s On The Bay â€˘ Ortygia Restaurant â€˘ Pacific Rim â€˘ Pattigeorgeâ€™s â€˘ Pier 22 Restaurant â€˘ Polo Grill & Bar â€˘ Primo! Ristorante â€˘ Riverhouse Reef & Grill â€˘ Roesslerâ€™s Restaurant â€˘ Salute! Restaurant â€˘ Sandbar Seafood & Spirits â€˘ Savory Street â€˘ Sharkyâ€™s On The Pier â€˘ Siesta Key Oyster Bar â€˘ SoMa Creek Side â€˘ Village CafĂŠ â€˘ The Waterfront Restaurant on Anna Maria â€˘ The White Horse Pub

THE SUN

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THE SUN

MAY 13, 2015

Neighborhood watch training begins There will be two more sessions – one on residential security and one on personal safety. BY PAT COPELAND SUN STAFF WRITER | pcopeland@amisun.com

HOLMES BEACH –Neighborhood Watch training sessions attracted two groups of residents – one from Key Royale with 27 participants and one from south of 52nd Street with 15 participants. Bradenton Neighborhood Watch specialist Tami Spyker, Police Chief Bill Tokajer and Sgt. Vern McGowin, who will be the department’s Neighborhood Watch specialist, taught the sessions. Spyker began by telling the gathering that residents who participate will not patrol the neighborhood because that’s not considered safe. However, they will learn to know what’s suspicious and what’s not. “The first thing you do is call the police,” she said. “Tell them your location and a brief synopsis of what’s happening. Let the dispatcher ask you what they want to know. “Give them a good description of the person. The officers need to know what they’re looking for; they need all the information.” She then did an exercise with the group on giving a good description. She said criminals

tend to change clothing, but not their shoes because they’re running, so look at their shoes. Also look at their pockets to see if they might have a weapon or anything that could be used as a weapon. Tokajer added, “The more information you give, the better it is for us and the better chance we have to stop the person. Look for a mode of transportation and take note of color, stickers, make, model, tag number – anything you can remember.” He also advised them to watch for more than one person being involved and warned them not to follow anyone, which could be dangerous.

The next step

Spyker said the next step after calling police is calling the Neighborhood Watch leader. “You’ll be part of a phone chain system. Have paper and pen by the phone and ask the leader to repeat the information back to you. Then you will call the people you are responsible for,” she said. One participant asked about texting and Spyker advised against it because “it’s an impersonal system. Part of the program is getting to know your neighbors and caring about your neighbors.” Spyker gave several scenarios to guide

participants in learning when to call police. The first involved two unkempt people walking down the street, which she said is not a crime. One participant asked if she could call if there are people who are out of place in the neighborhood, and Tokajer said she could but police “have to have a reason to approach them.” Spyker pointed out that this is a tourist destination and attracts all kinds of people and said, “Just because someone doesn’t look like you doesn’t mean they are a criminal.” The second scenario was a person looking into vehicles and trying door handles, which she said was suspicious. The third was two well-dressed people knocking on doors, which she said was suspicious enough to call police to have them checked. Tokajer told of a group called The Travelers, who are very well dressed, drive upscale vehicles and knock on doors seeking an opportunity to break into residences. Spyker said people should be observant and know what type of vehicles their neighbors drive and know their habits.

Be cautious

There are three things needed to commit a crime; desire, ability and opportunity, Spyker explained and advised people to keep their

doors locked. “Even if you are home, lock your doors. Someone could be at the front door while an accomplice is sneaking in the back door,” Tokajer said. “Don’t open your doors for strangers because it could give them an opportunity to look inside and see if you have any valuables. If a stranger comes to the door, don’t ask who’s there, and don’t let them know you are home.” One participant asked about soliciting and McGowin said there is a city ordinance prohibiting it except for religious groups. Tokajer also cautioned people about leaving their keys in their vehicles and explained. “If you do and someone steals your vehicle and commits a crime, you will be civilly liable.” Another participant asked what to do if their vehicle alarm goes off in the middle of the night, and Tokajer said to call police. Another asked what to do if the house alarm goes off, and Tokajer said find a safe place and call police. Tokajer said there would be two more training sessions. The next one is set for Thursday, May 14, at 5:30 p.m. in city commission chambers. The topic will be residential security. The third one will be on personal safety with date and time TBA.

MAY 13, 2015

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THE SUN

Joe Hendricks | sun

Residents at the forum listen as Mayor Bill Shearon and Vice Mayor Jack Clarke respond to questions.

FORUM: Candidates face off FROM PAGE 3

EEOC complaint and a 150 percent turnover rate in the administrative department. “These are things that lead me to believe we have a morale problem … there’s something about the way the city is being run that causes people to leave,” Clarke said. “My approach to management would greatly improve morale,” he said, noting that he found money in last year’s budget to give city employees one and a half percent raises Shearon said the workforce complaints resulted in no official action being taken, and the raises had a net total impact of 11 percent on the city when associated benefits and other costs were factored in. “Our staff is very competent, and I feel they’re compensated well for their efforts,” he said.

Code enforcement

On code enforcement, Clarke said, “Code enforcement has been used as a tool to inconvenience businesses, harass neighbors and get even for old scores. Selective code enforcement is flat-out wrong.” He said he would clarify the duties of code enforcement, support the police chief’s request that complaints be submitted in writing and added that if someone is afraid to put his/her name on a complaint they can ask a commissioner put his/her name on it instead. “A complaint is a complaint. I don’t

feel somebody has to put their name on it. That’s what we have a trained code enforcement officer to do,” Shearon said, noting that code enforcement should be more proactive and less reactive.

Other issues

On parking, Clarke said, “We’ve had a parking problem on this Island since the first ferry came over from Tampa, and it’s not going to go away.” He then mentioned Shearon’s recent objections to a Bridge Street business owner allowing free public parking on his vacant lot. Shearon cited enforcement and public transit as solutions and said, “30 spaces there and 30 spaces here doesn’t make any difference. You’re going to have 300 people who come over and think they’re able to park in that lot.” In regard to the recall election, Shearon said, “It should have never happened, but it has. I welcome the recall process because the voters voted me in, and the voters need to vote me out. Hopefully, after the recall, we can start all over again, pick up the pieces and move forward.” Clarke said, “My administration is a new day and a new way. The mayor says he supports the recall? We have the mayor’s associate and next door neighbor filing suit to stop it.” City voters will determine the winner of the recall election on Tuesday, May 19.

THE SUN

www.amisun.com

MAY 13, 2015

EVERYONE IS WELCOME Adult Bible Study 8:45 AM

SUNDAY WORSHIP 10:00 AM

Children & Youth Church School after the Childrenâ€™s Message NURSERY AVAILABLE A NON DENOMINATIONAL CHRISTIAN COMMUNITY

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pat copeland | sun

These traffic islands at Key Royale, Marina and Palm drives were replanted by beautification board members to improve visibility for vehicles.

Beautification board replants island at Key Royale One of their priorities for the next year is the traffic islands at Manatee Avenue and East Bay Drive. BY PAT COPELAND SUN STAFF WRITER | pcopeland@amisun.com

HOLMES BEACH â€“ Beautification board member Jerry West and public works employees, aided by former board chair Melissa Snyder, replanted the traffic island at Key Royale, Marina and Palm drives with more suitable plants as recommended by beautification board member Dennis Groh. The plants that were there were growing too large and obscuring motoristsâ€™ views. Replacement plants include shore junipers, firecracker plant, dwarf coco plum, dwarf jatropha, Southern wax myrtle, dwarf variegated schefflera, evergreen giant liriope, perennial peanut, blanket flower, beach sunflower,

seaside oxeye daisy, mimosa, jasmine minima, coontie, aloe vera, Parsonâ€™s juniper, muhly grass, Texas sage, Indian hawthorn, dwarf yaupon holly and coco plum. Chair Bob Longworth said he plans to have a wooden sign made for Spring Lake Park at 6807 Holmes Blvd. West suggested that he work with City Commissioner Marvin Grossman on a design for the sign and get approval from the city commission. Members will take a summer recess and return in October. One of their priorities for the next year is the traffic islands at Manatee Avenue and East Bay Drive. West said they should remove the plants there, â€œexcept for the tall palms and start from scratch.â€? Other priorities include the replanting traffic islands at the north entrance to Manatee Beach Park (formerly Manatee Public Beach) and at the Martinique and planting the city basketball court area.

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MAY 13, 2015

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This city-owned restaurant space on the Historic Bridge Street Pier will soon be available to rent. Joe Hendricks | Sun

Cast-n-Cage to be evicted Commissioners are hopeful the pier tenant will now exit gracefully so a new tenant can be found. BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

BRADENTON BEACH – The Cast-nCage restaurant located on the Historic Bridge Street Pier will soon cease to exist. Last week, Circuit Court Judge Doug Henderson ruled in favor of the city of Bradenton Beach having the legal grounds to evict tenant Roland Pena and his business associates. Henderson agreed with attorney Fred Moore that Pena could be evicted because he missed or was late on at least three rent payments from April 1, 2014 through March 31 of this year. Pena’s attorney, John Fleck, unsuccessfully argued that a lease amendment Pena signed in November triggered a new one-year cycle in regard to the accumulation of missed or late rent payments, and therefore Pena’s missed March payment should not have triggered the eviction process. These and other arguments were made during a Monday, May 4, hearing that was followed later in the week by Henderson’s decision and the written order that stated, “Plaintiff is entitled to re-take possession of the property in accordance with Sec. 21 and other provisions of the lease.”

What next?

Police Chief Sam Speciale was scheduled to meet with Pena Monday to discuss an exit strategy. During Thursday’s commission meeting, it was agreed that Pena would be given a couple weeks to “exit gracefully,” allowing him time to remove his equipment and other belongings from the city-owned structures. As of Sunday, the restaurant was still open. City Attorney Ricinda Perry told the commission Henderson’s ruling allows the city to evict Pena immediately, with

no further notice, if he continues to resist the city’s request to vacate the premises. “If you want to be very aggressive, you could have the sheriff to come out tomorrow and have them removed right then and there,” Perry said. Perry also said the city could continue charging Pena the $6,800 monthly rent he is contractually obligated to pay until the two-year lease expires in November. There are no currently plans to do so, but that leverage exists if needed. Perry said she would now seek a judge’s order to release to the city the $20,400 in rent payments Pena placed in a court-held escrow account for the past three months while the eviction process played out.

Pier lease and RFP

On Tuesday, May 5, the city commission continued its efforts to refine the new lease that will used for the next pier tenant, even though Henderson’s ruling had not yet been issued. The commission accepted Perry’s suggestion that the new lease will contain a rolling 13-month default cycle that will help avoid future confusion regarding the 12 consecutive months versus one calendar year argument raised by Pena’s attorney. If the new tenant is late or misses a total of three rent payments in any consecutive 13-month period he/she will be designated to be in default of the lease and be subject to eviction. There was continued consensus that the base rent will likely be $2,500 per month for the restaurant space and the two smaller structures recently used as a bait shop and a concession stand. The base rent will be supplemented by a percentage of the total monthly gross revenue offered by individual bidders, with no annual rent increases built into the renewable five year lease. The new restaurant tenant can sublet the smaller structures if they wish, but Mayor Bill Shearon suggested a bait shop be a required element of the business operations taking place on the recently renovated city fishing pier.

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THE SUN

Live like a local Respect Wildlife Crack the beach flag code

Black skimmer We’re here to rest and nest. Please don’t chase us! Anna Maria Island Sun, Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring

The flags fluttering on the lifeguard stands at Anna Maria Island’s two public beaches, Manatee Beach in Holmes Beach and Coquina Beach in Bradenton Beach, are color coded to warn about different conditions that beachgoers should be aware of. Here’s how to read them: • Double red – no swimming allowed • Red – swim with extreme caution due to strong currents or rough surf • Yellow – swim with caution due to moderate currents or surf • Green – swimming allowed, calm conditions • Purple – presence of marine pests such as jellyfish, sharks, stingrays or red tide

MAY 13, 2015

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THE SUN

TOM VAUGHT | SUN

Safety first Dozens of students gathered at the West Manatee Fire Rescue Station in Holmes Beach for a safety checkup before a group ride to school to celebrate the annual Ride Your Bike to School Day. Each rider got a backpack with information in it on bicycle safety before riding along the back roads to Anna Maria Elementary School.

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THE SUN

OUTDOORS

MAY 13, 2015

Sarasota Bay Watch enters Gulf Coast Challenge Reel Time RUSTY CHINNIS

arasota Bay Watch (SBW) is entering a unique competition sponsored by the Gulf Coast Community Foundation, known as The Gulf Coast Innovation Challenge. At stake is a $500,000 grant that was created to stimulate and fund innovative solutions to issues and opportunities affecting the Gulf Coast region. The Challenge highlights marine science in an attempt to advance causes that impact what the challenge refers to as the region’s “Blue Economy.” The Challenge has four distinct phases with deadlines that include submissions, Feb. 24 to April 30; feedback, May 1 to June 30; refinement, July 31 to Oct. 30; and presentations, evaluation and selection, which begins on Nov. 2. Submissions are made through an online form located on the Gulf Coast Innovation Challenge Website. During the submission phase, each entity chose a team leader who was

rusty chinnis | sun

Best known for its attempt to restore scallops to Sarasota Bay, Sarasota Bay Watch is diversifying its efforts. required to create an account, register the names of all team members, identify the challenge and give a brief description of the team’s hypothetical solution.

All submissions were reviewed by a panel of experts before entrants were allowed to join the grant challenge. SBW’s first entry, which was submitted in partnership with the Conservation Foundation of the Gulf Coast, involves creating what is referred to as the “Emerald Necklace.” The proposal, which has been accepted, was spearheaded by SBW board member Pepper Deitz with assistance from board member Larry Stults. The entry was submitted with the following language: “New and interesting ecotourism destinations are needed. Neglected waterway islands are inaccessible, inhospitable and overrun with damaging invasive plants. Sarasota Bay Watch and partners propose to: Create an Emerald Necklace of accessible waterway islands throughout the area to meet the growing ecotourism needs. Creating island landing zones for paddle craft and tourism boats increases ecotourism’s scope and diversity, while habitat restoration enhances the eco-experience. Converting community waterway islands from inhospitable invasive plant “seed banks” to welcoming visitation areas creates new ecotourism destinations see reel time, page 24

www.amisun.com

MAY 13, 2015

Fishing productive Captain Mark Howard

Fishing this past week out of Island Discount Tackle has been productive and action-packed. Inshore fishing for snook, speckled trout and redfish has provided plenty of rod bending action with redfish and speckled trout fillets coming to the dinner party . Snook fishing is heating up as they make their way to the passes and the beach preparing for the summer spawn. My bait of choice has been a lively shiner rigged on a 30-pound floro carbon leader with a 1/0 hook. On my recent charters my clients have enjoyed the explosion of the snook knocking the shiners out of the water. Remember, snook season closed May 1, so it is strictly catch and release for these silver linesiders . Redfishing has been good with some big oversized bruisers chewing in 2 feet of water and tight to the mangroves. Rigging a lively shiner with a popping cork and making it gurgle will draw the strikes when the water is gin clear. Look for the reds to cruise the oyster bars and potholes along mangrove shorelines. Looking forward, the tides will remain strong for the coming week helping to fire up the fishing action around Manatee County. Be at your favorite fishing hole when the tidal flow

THE SUN

Celebrate imperiled wildlife Anna Maria Island imperiled species

is strongest to increase your chances of having that special day on the water. Until next time, learn to keep the slack out of your line and feel the thump of the predator inhaling your bait.

Captain Rick Grassett

Fly anglers fishing with me on my Action Craft flats skiff the Snook FinAddict, out of CB's Saltwater Outfitters on Siesta Key, had action with tarpon in the coastal Gulf in Sarasota during the past week. We had numerous shots at tarpon with a fly and one hookup. Tarpon were plentiful leading up to Monday’s full moon, and we had lots of shots that day, although a stiff east wind made casting challenging. Conditions were good later in the week, however, tarpon thinned out for a few days following the full moon, and we had fewer shots. When sight fishing, the more opportunities, or shots, that we get, the better our chances to be successful. Tarpon fishing in the coastal Gulf should be a good option when sea conditions are good. Look for reds, snook, flounder and big trout mixed with mullet schools on shallow flats and edges of bars. You may also find trout, Spanish mackerel, blues, flounder or pompano on deep grass flats, particularly close to passes.

Endangered

Green sea turtle West Indian manatee

BY CINDY LANE Friday, May 15, is Endangered Species Day, celebrating the preservation of imperiled species. Many such species live on Anna Maria Island and in its waters, including manatees, snowy plovers, loggerhead sea turtles and gopher tortoises, which are benefiting from the 40-yearold federal Endangered Species Act and state protections. Next month, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) is expected to release a draft of its Imperiled Species Management Plan. The FWC has previously recommended that 16 species be removed from the imperiled list – three threatened species and 13 species of special concern – including the brown pelican, the snowy egret and the white ibis, all found on the Island. The others are the alligator snapping turtle, Florida black bear, Florida mouse, Florida tree snail, gopher frog, Lake Eustis pupfish, limpkin, Peninsula ribbon snake, Pine Barrens tree-

Threatened

Gopher tortoise Least tern Loggerhead sea turtle Piping plover Snowy plover

State Species of Special Concern

American oystercatcher Black skimmer Brown pelican Little blue heron Osprey Roseate spoonbill Snowy egret White ibis Source: Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission frog, red rat snake, rivulus, striped mud turtle and Suwannee cooter. The species are being recommended see wildlife, page 24

tide chart for anna maria city pier May 13-20 Day Date

A.M. High Time Feet

A.M. Low Time Feet

P.M. High Time Feet

P.M. Low Time Feet

Sun Rise Set

Day Date

A.M. High Time Feet

A.M. Low Time Feet

Wed 5/13

8:34a 1.94

1:59a 0.33

8:29p 1.75

2:45p 0.70

6:43-8:11

Sun 5/17

10:41a 2.61

4:40a 1.01

Thu 5/14

9:07a 2.13

2:47a 0.51

9:50p 1.71

3:48p 0.36

Mon 5/18

12:57a 1.53

5:11a 1.12

11:13a 2.67

7:04p -0.35

Fri 5/15

9:38a 2.32

3:29a 0.70

10:58p 1.66

4:43p 0.06

Tue 5/19

1:55a 1.47

5:42a 1.20

11:48a 2.68

7:49p -0.33

Sat 5/16

10:09a 2.48

4:06a 0.87

11:59p 1.60

5:32p -0.17

Wed 5/20

2:52a 1.42

6:14a 1.25

12:26p 2.63

8"35p 0.25

6:42-8:11 6:42-8:12 6:41-8:13

P.M. High Time Feet

P.M. Low Time Feet

Sun Rise Set

6:19p -0.30

6:41-8:13 6:40-8:14 6:40-8:14 6:39-8:15

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THE SUN

wildlife: Endangered Species Day F ROM PAG E 23

for delisting because scien tists determined they are not at high risk of extinction, according to the FWC. They recommended that 40 other species remain listed as threatened, including the American oystercatcher, black skimmer, least tern, little blue heron, roseate spoonbill and snowy plover, all found on the Island.

Before any species is delisted, the public will have an opportunity to comment on the management plan after the draft version is released in June. Meanwhile, head outside on Friday, try to spot an imperiled species on the Island, and enjoy.

reel time: Gulf Coast Challenge FROM PAGE 22

accessible only by water. This process will help to increase the number of marine outfitters, charters and businesses and promote local green tourism.” Talking points of the proposal were that eco-tourism is booming in Sarasota and along the Gulf Coast. Currently there are limited eco-destinations and a real need to develop new ones exists. Throughout the Gulf Coast region there are neglected waterway islands that are inaccessible to eco-tourists and overrun with invasive plants and trash. These waterway islands are jewels in the rough that should be restored to create new and interesting eco-destinations. Sarasota could be a model for other communities to create new destinations and extend the Emerald Necklace up and down the Gulf Coast. Restoring our waterway islands to native habitat will benefit the environment as well as creating welcoming eco-destinations. The media contact for the Conservation Foundation is President Christine Johnson, Christine@conservationfoundation.com. Sarasota Bay Watch’s second proposal, also accepted, was developed in partnership with Selby Gardens, the Science and Environment Council of Southwest Florida and Todd Barber, of the Reef Ball Foundation. This proposal involves creating

what has been referred to as living seawalls. At present 80 percent of Sarasota Bay’s shoreline is hardened with seawalls, many of the seawalls need repair and or to be replaced over the next several years. This proposal recommends hosting a design charette to develop living seawalls that are environmentally sound, readily permit-able and economically feasible. SBW believes Selby Gardens would provide a unique demonstration site and good experimental laboratory for living seawall solutions because of its high energy bayfront shoreline, low energy bayou shoreline and dock structures. The positive impact of the this solution would be to create a green seawall business model that vastly improves marine diversity and density, and is scalable beyond Sarasota/Manatee to all of Florida and globally. Benefits would include boosting the base of the food chain, which in turn supports fisheries and related commerce, as well as top of the food chain species such as dolphins; increasing eco-tourism generally and turning Selby Gardens into an eco-tourism destination. SBW and its partners will now have to create a short video describing the proposals. During this feedback phase, videos will be displayed with each team’s submission in a public Challenger’s Gallery

on the Challenge’s Website where the community can comment, ask questions, or provide feedback on submissions. As many as five of the proposals will receive grants of $25,000 each to create a prototype of their proposals. The winners will then be tasked with pitching their proposals to a panel of experts, who will evaluate them and provide recommendations to the board of directors of Gulf Coast Community Foundation. One Team will then be selected to receive a grant of up to $375,000 to bring its solution to market. The Challenge was created to encourage and fund innovative ideas that will transform the Gulf Coast region. Research has shown that “incentive grant challenges by philanthropies can be effective mechanisms to encourage innovation and achieve social benefits.” The Gulf Coast Community Foundation intends to tap into the competitive, entrepreneurial spirit of individuals, businesses, and organizations in the region to spur innovations that can grow the economy and provide a community service and/or benefit. Sarasota Bay Watch is excited to be a part of the challenge as it fits with the mission to help create and sustain a healthy bay. For more information, visit the Gulf Coast Challenge Website at www.gulfcoastchallenge.org

MAY 13, 2015

SPORTS

THE SUN

AMICC springs into another season of sports BY MONICA SIMPSON SPECIAL TO THE SUN

With the first crack of the bat at home plate, the first jump ball on the court and the first kickoff on the pitch, the spring sports season at the Anna Maria Island Community Center was underway last week. Youth basketball started off the season with youth games on Monday, May 4. As 12 teams, ranging in age from five to 17 years old, battle it out in the eight-game season, one champion will be named at the June 1 award ceremony. The adult basketball players started their action on Tuesday, May 5. Five teams shoot, dribble and juke on the court each week. Only one league champion will be named on June 30 after the Second Annual Skills Challenge and the All-Start Game is played. Outside on the big field, the spring adult soccer league played Thursday night with head-to-head competition among the eight teams. This season, in honor of Paul Hayward, each of the teams will wear one of Haywardâ€™s inspiring signature logo designs. The season ends with the Island Cup played on June 16. The baseball diamond was filled with excitement with tee ball for the

MONICA SIMPSON | SUBMITTED

Above, Jesse Zaccagnino secures his batting helmet to take the base. Right, Pink and Navy's Sean Harlan races to home plate. wee ones and baseball for the eightto 12-year olds. Five teams take the field every week to the cheers of friends and family, leading to the Centerâ€™s World Series on June 3. Fun on the court and the field continues at the Center with the help of volunteer coaches and captains, as well a business sponsors. With the business sponsor banners flying high, each game represents the continued and cherished sense of community on Anna Maria Island.

The Sun Scoreboard Monday, May 4 8-to-10-Year-Old Youth Basketball Island Real Estate Team Calvary

8 18 40 16

14-to 17-Year-Old Youth Basketball Team R. Gilman Team A. Gilman

Tuesday, May 5 Adult Basketball MONICA SIMPSON | SUBMITTED

Savanah Coba, Pink and Navy hitter, strikes the ball off the tee.

Team Spacondra Team Mickan

68 65

Gator Squad Team Spacondra

62 46

Wednesday, May 6 8-to-10-Year-Old Youth Basketball Island Real Estate Team Calvary

4 16

11-to-13-Year-Old Youth Basketball Team Gardner Team Simpson

14 13

14-to 17-Year-Old Youth Basketball

11-to-13-Year-Old Youth Basketball Team Gardner Team Laade

Team Ray Team Kern

39 44

74 61

Team Gardner Team Ray

Team Laade Team Simpson

8 21

14-to 17-Year-Old Youth Basketball Team Gardner Team A. Gilman

50 44

Team Zele Team Ray

43 46

49 48

Saturday, May 9 11-to-13-Year-Old Youth Basketball

14-to 17-Year-Old Youth Basketball

Thursday, May 7 - Adult Soccer Eason Builders Team Unity Sato Real Estate Team Powwowder Wash Family Construction Team Idigthisisland Team 11ManGang Slims Place Team Optimisticool Island Pest Control Team Smiledeep Team Rebellion Team Lion

Friday, May 8 11-to-13-Year-Old Youth Basketball

Team Laade Team Gardner

31 17

Team R. Gilman Team Ray

52 23

4 5

Team Zele Team A. Gliman

58 44

1 4 4 3

THE SUN

TOURISM: Boosters honored FROM PAGE 5

tourism supports 21,700 jobs, generating $43 million in state sales taxes and a total economic impact of nearly $995 million, he told attendees. Since 2010, visitation has increased by 11.9 percent, tourism-related jobs have increased by 21.2 percent and room rates have increased 17 percent, according to the CVB, the focus of which is converting visitors to business owners and property owners, Falcione said. CVB Executive Manager Debbie Meihls attributed the growth to increased marketing for sports, such as the Ellenton Ice Rink and IMG, agri-tourism, such as Dakin Dairy and Mixon Fruit Farms, and film, such as the Skyway Film Festival scheduled for June 12-14 at the Manatee Performing Arts Center.

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MAY 13, 2015

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MAY 13, 2015

THE SUN

Blues, Brews and BBQ Saturday night Bridge Street will be jammin’ Saturday night. BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

BRADENTON BEACH – Taking place Saturday, May 16, from 5 to 10 p.m., Blues, Brews & BBQ is not the first evening event to be held in the vacant lot on Bridge Street lot, but organizers hope this special blend of outdoor music, beer and food becomes an annual happening on the south end of the Island. “There’s a reason this outdoor event leads with the word blues,” said Amanda Escobio, secretary of the Bridge Street Merchants association. “Because music takes center stage, with the brews and barbecue as supporting acts.” Blues legend Sarasota Slim will headline the show. Also on the roster is 20-year-old pianist Luca Sestak and Island favorite Mac McConnell. Motorworks Brewing is bringing three varieties of craft beer and a

At Yo u e e S

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941.758.7880

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(1.5 miles north of SRQ Airport)

(5 min from Anna Maria Island)

( Take I-75 Exit 224 west)

6906 14th St. W. on US 41

6696 Cortez Rd.

1525 51st Ave. E.

Steve

full bar also will be available. The mouth-watering barbecue offerings will include ribs, chicken and pulled pork sandwiches and platters. There is a $5 admission fee, but kids 12 and under are free. The gate opens at 4 p.m. There will be a limited amount of complimentary table seating for sticky-fingered barbecue diners, and attendees are welcome to bring chairs and blankets, but no coolers. Outside food and drink is prohibited, but event-goers may leave and re-enter, making it easier to explore other dining, drinking, music, shopping and recreational options available on Bridge Street. The silent auction will include fresh pie, art, massages, restaurant certificates, boat tours and other goodies donated by local businesses, as well as a two-night stay at the Banana Bay Resort in Marathon Key. Sponsored in part by The Sun, event proceeds will benefit The Food Bank of Manatee. Escobio suggests traveling to

There’s a reason this outdoor event leads with the word blues. Music takes center stage.’’ Amanda Escobio Bridge Street Merchants Bridge Street via the free trolley or Monkey Bus, but parking will available at the Bridge Street Bistro, along Bridge Street, at city hall, the Tingley Memorial Library and south of Bridge Street at Cortez and Coquina beaches. For more information, visit www. visitbridgestreet.com or call 941896-2222.

THE SUN

REAL ESTATE

MAY 13, 2015

Do you know your well-being score?

ou can call it a high level of wellbeing, you can call it a quality of life choice or you can simply call it a great place to live. But whatever you call it, Bradenton and Anna Maria keep popping up on a variety of national surveys and studies as being one of those places that sounds too good to be true. Knowing that Bradenton’s motto is “The Friendly City” once won me free admission to The Ringling Museum, but apparently I’m not the only one who knows how friendly our region is. In a recent Gallup Survey the Bradenton-Sarasota-North Port metropolitan area scored number 1 in the WellBeing Index Score. The other top four areas were Honolulu, Hawaii; Raleigh, N.C; Oxnard-Thousand Oaks-Ventura, Calif., and El Paso, Texas. No other area in Florida even made it to the top 10.

Castles in the Sand Louise Bolger According to the Gallup-Healthway Well-Being Index, there are five essential elements of well-being evaluated in this index including liking what you do; having supportive relationships and love; managing economic needs, therefore, reducing stress; liking where you live; feeling safe; and having good health and energy. In addition, the index also measured residents who exercise more frequently and are less likely to be obese, have good access to health care and nutritious and fresh foods and are interested in learning new things. Those of us

who have lived in the Bradenton area for a number of years recognize many of these elements as being prevalent among our friends, family and coworkers. And if your level of well-being isn’t high enough, let me give you the Manatee County March real estate sales statistics comparing this March to March last year compiled by the Realtor Association of Sarasota and Manatee. Single-family home sales were up 20.7 percent, the median sale price was up 17.3 percent and the average sale price was up 10.6 percent, now standing at $330,698. Townhouse and condo sales were also up 18.8 percent, median sales price was up 21.2 percent and average sales price up 23.9 percent, now standing at $206,821. Active listings for single family homes were down 0.1 percent and up slightly for townhouses and condos

at 0.5 percent. As of the end of March we were looking at only a 4.6 month supply of inventory for single family homes and a 4.7 percent supply of inventory for townhouses and condos. Real estate 101 tells us that low inventory results in high prices so we can expect the average sales prices to keep climbing if inventory remains the same going forward. Well that’s pretty much the good news well-being wise, but what makes Bradenton and Anna Maria such wonderful places to live also puts them on the radar of everyone else who is looking for that perfect place. Unfortunately, this could turn the well-being factor into the not so well-being factor, and U.S Census Bureau statistics on Anna Maria Island are getting some people’s attention. see bolger, page 30

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MAY 13, 2015

THE SUN

Commission approves park plans City commissioners praised the citizen committees that worked on the plans for City Pier Park and Gulf Front Park. BY TOM VAUGHT SUN STAFF WRITER | tvaught@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA – The concept of using citizen’s committees to work out plans for new projects got a boost Thursday night when the city commission overwhelmingly approved money for those plans. The first project was the City Pier Park, formerly known as the six lots that the city bought to prevent development at the far end of Pine Avenue, across the street from the Anna Maria City Pier. Bob Patten, a former mayor in the state of New Jersey, headed the committee with his wife, Kathy, who took minutes. Other members were John Chambers, who was absent for the meeting, Stevie Coppin, Dusty Crane, Ruth Uecker and Liza Walker. Island native plant authority Mike Miller was not a committee member, but he helped draw up plans for the park and make estimates of the cost of landscaping.

“This is going to be phase one,” said Bob Patten, before each member made a presentation explaining the plan and how they got there. “We started on this January 9 and when we began, we all disagreed, but in the end, we all agreed. “We didn’t know what we wanted until we saw it,” he added. “The mayor told us to have an open mind and consider every suggestion, which we did.” Uecker spoke first, explaining how they gathered input. “We went to the people, interviewing over 200 people,” she said. “We asked what they wanted to see in those lots and the majority wanted green space, more parking and bathrooms.” Uecker said they got a lot of feedback from the Anna Maria Island Sun’s weekly question in February asking if people wanted to sell the land or develop a park. “Eighty-three percent wanted to keep it and develop it as a park,” she said. Crane spoke of the group’s preferences. “We wanted to create an old fashioned pocket park with amenities to enhance the people’s experience,” she said. “We wanted a natural park with landscaping that would offer visitors and quiet place for them to take

a respite. “There will be a drinking fountain and a bathroom with an outdoors shower, bike ramps to encourage cycling and lighting appropriate to that location,” she added. “We want to offer educational materials on the flora and fauna to preserve that old Florida charm.” Coppin said the members attended the Urban Land Institute meetings and the results of them helped guide the committee in what it wanted. “We took a bare-bones approach and we are asking you to vote on that today,” she said. “We will put some of the ideas we considered in a people’s bucket list for your future consideration and hope that some donors might come fourth to help in return for recognition at the park. It would enhance the whole area, which has been identified as a major tourist attraction.” Walker spoke of items in the bucket list including some water attraction, a stage for performances, a sound barrier for nearby residents and finally, she spoke of plans to move the pier parking into the far side of the park and make the parking area into waterfront park space. Commissioner Dale Woodland suggested

the area might be a fun place for commissioners to come to listen to the people. When Commissioner Chuck Webb asked if they wanted to sod the park, Bob Patten said they would leave that up to the experts. Two residents spoke, saying they opposed putting parking spots in the park. Mayor Dan Murphy said they needed approval to spend $75,000 of the $150,000 on hand to start the project, saying he was looking at grants to spend on the project. The commission complied unanimously. The next subject was plans to take out nonnative plants along Gulf Front Park, which runs from Oak Avenue to Magnolia. They got a start to that project and Murphy said they have a guaranty of at least $76,000 from the Tourist Development Council with matching funds, plus $19,800 from 18 individuals. Commissioner Doug Copeland moved to approve $25,500 to continue the work, and it passed unanimously. After the first vote, Webb complimented the group for getting the City Pier Park off dead-center and after the last vote, he said, “We just got more done in an hour than we did in two years.”

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THE SUN

BOLGER: Your well-being score FROM PAGE 28

A couple of weeks ago, this paper reported the census report for a 10-year period from 2000 to 2010. Unfortunately the Island population decreased by 21.1 percent, owner occupied residences in Anna Maria decreased by 10 percent, Bradenton Beach by 8.3 percent and Holmes Beach by 16 percent. Short term rentals increased in Anna Maria by 19 percent, Bradenton Beach by 26.8 percent and Holmes Beach by 29.2 percent. And finally, Island-wide, investor-owned,

short-term rentals increased from 43 percent to 55 percent. Bearing in mind that the above statistics are already 5 years old it would be safe to assume that percentages have gone up substantially in the past 5 years. Never-the-less donâ€™t let any of this change your well-being index. Manatee County is still a great place to live with great people, spectacular beaches and first rate services. Just donâ€™t spread it around.

MAY 13, 2015

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THE SUN

BOXES: PO boxes to stay

Flippers and Feathers

FROM PAGE 1

To avoid interfering with sea turtles as they mate in area waters during turtle season (May 1 – Oct. 31): • Wear polarized sunglasses to better spot sea turtles. • Stow trash and line when underway; if it blows overboard it can be eaten by or entangled around sea turtles. • Put your vessel’s engine in neutral when nearing sea turtles. • Don’t feed sea turtles. • Don’t chase, swim with or touch sea turtles. • Don’t encircle sea turtles with vessels.

post office boxes, which they said could be relocated to Anna Maria or Bradenton Beach. Meyers and Jackson maintained that without the post office boxes, the contract is financially unfeasible, and if no one takes the contract, it could result in the loss of all postal services at that location. Mayor Bob Johnson sought help from Buchanan, who called for a town hall meeting with representatives of the USPS. Residents in attendance made a strong case for keeping the post office boxes, and Buchanan said he would take their case to USPS officials in Washington, D.C. “We have been working closely with local stakeholders to impress upon USPS the importance of keeping these PO boxes in service, especially the traffic issues that would arise and the lack of parking at other USPS branches,” Buchanan said. “They considered all of the factors we presented to them and arrived at the right decision.” Johnson added, “It’s a perfect example of what representative government is all about. It didn’t make sense for the community, they contacted their representative and he acted. It was heartening for me.” Meyers and Jackson immediately put up a sign declaring victory, and Meyers said, “I want to thank everyone for their support, not only those who came to the meeting, but also those who signed petitions. And I want to thank Mayor Johnson and Congressman Buchanan for their help.”

Nesting News

Adopt a turtle nest Loggerhead sea turtle nests are up for adoption on Anna Maria Island beaches, to commemorate weddings, anniversaries, birthdays, lost loved ones or just for the love of nature. The 11-year-old program raises funds for Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring. For a tax deductible donation of $100, adoptive parents receive the adoption plaque that was posted on the nest, a video of the nest, data from the nest, such as how many turtles hatched and when, and a letter of appreciation. To adopt, visit www. islandturtlewatch.com. CINDY LANE | SUN

Sea turtles Nests laid: 10 False crawls: 10 Nests hatched: 0 Hatchlings to Gulf: 0 Nest disorientations: 0 Source: Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring

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THE SUN

Top real estate producers for April A Paradise Realty - Holmes Beach Quentin Talbert - Listing Larry Albert - Selling

Island Real Estate - Anna Maria Gail Tutewiler - Listing Liz Codola - Selling

A Paradise Realty - Bradenton Beach Al and Helen Pollock - Listing and selling

Island Real Estate - Holmes Beach John Van Zandt - Listing Alan and Scott Galletto - Selling

Duncan Real Estate Darcie Duncan - Listing Billi Gartman - Selling

Island Vacation Properties Barb Neely, Bill Annis - Listing Mel Neely - Selling

Fran Maxon Real Estate Stephanie Bell - Listing and selling

Michael Saunders Debbie Vogler - Listing Leah Secondo - Selling

Mike Norman Chet Coleman - Listing Carla Beddow - Selling Premier Sothebyâ€™s International Realty Terry Hayes - Listing and selling Sato Real Estate Jason Sato - Listing Barbara Sata - Selling Wagner Real Estate Ellen Hayo - Listing and selling

MAY 13, 2015

-*'& *4 BETTER AT THE #&"$)

1301&35: ."/"(&.&/5 p 3&"- &45"5& 4"-&4 p 7"$"5*0/ 3&/5"-4

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MAY 13, 2015

THE SUN

RECALL: Election heads to finish line “Having weighed the relevant facts, the court concludes the plaintiff has failed to demonstrate sufficient cause for a temporary injunction disqualifying Clarke from the mayoral recall election,” he concluded.

voluntary dismissal as being dismissed without prejudice. Doing so will incur attorneys’ fees and costs, for which I will seek to recover from you under the provisions of Florida statutes,” she wrote. As of Sunday the dismissal remained unresolved.

With or without prejudice?

Hearing loss

FROM PAGE 1

The day after the injunction request was denied, Metz filed a notice of voluntary dismissal without prejudice. Clarke’s attorney, Andrea Mogensen, responded by noting that he already forfeited the ability to dismiss without prejudice when he improperly filed his suit in Sarasota County and later had it dismissed without prejudice before refiling in Manatee County, the proper jurisdiction. In a letter sent to Metz on Thursday, May 7, Mogensen informed him that she filed a motion to have his voluntary dismissal struck based on the two-dismissal rule that requires the action to be dismissed with prejudice instead. “I respectfully request you amend your notice of voluntary dismissal to state that it is with prejudice as soon as possible. If you refuse to do so, I will have no choice but to resist the

Metz, a former attorney, represented himself at the hearing. He contended Clarke failed to comply with the resignto-run law that requires an elected official to submit a pending resignation 10 days before attempting to qualify for another elected office. Mogensen successfully argued that her client did all he could to comply with the accelerated qualifying period ordered by Judge Andrew Owens in early April. When testifying, Clarke said, “I immediately sat down, wrote my letter of resignation and sent it to the city clerk. I feel I substantially complied with the law, and it was not my place to question the judge.” Mogensen also suggested Metz was interpreting the resign-to-run law contrary to what was intended by the state legislators that adopted it. She said the

There are very limited and extreme instances when the judicial branch would intervene in the electoral process.” Andrea Mogensen Attorney law’s intent was to ensure that anyone wishing to run for a seat being vacated be given time to do so, and the law applies more to the office being vacated than the new office being sought. City Attorney Ricinda Perry supported that argument when she testified that the city charter mandates a vacated commission seat will be filled by commission appointment rather

than special election, which meant no one tried to run for the ward 1 seat Clarke will vacate, win or lose, after the election. Supervisor of Elections Mike Bennett, a co-defendant in Metz’s suit, testified that 176 mail ballots had been mailed to city voters and approximately 80 had been returned as ballots cast.

Post-hearing reaction

After the hearing, Bennett’s attorney, James Minix, encouraged Metz to drop the original lawsuit that still remained active after the injunction denial. “Normally these things are over if you can’t get an injunction. If the election is going to go forward as the judge has now indicated, what relief are you going to get after the fact?” he explained. Mogensen said, “The city voters will have their election. Any day you can protect the Democratic process and the constitutional rights of the people is a great day at work.” In regard to potential post-election challenges presented by Shearon or his supporters, Mogensen said, “There are very limited and extreme instances when the judicial branch would intervene in the electoral process.”

Storms of another nature A city commissioner and a citizen take offense to one another’s comments. BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

BRADENTON BEACH – At the conclusion of last week’s stormwater fee discussion, Commissioner Jan Vosburgh asked to be excused from the meeting. As she left city hall, Vosburgh said she was leaving early because she was upset about personal comments made by LeeAnne Metz during general public comment. Metz read the city’s pledge of ci-

vility and complained about public comments Vosburgh made at a previous meeting regarding her and her husband’s efforts to have Vice Mayor Jack Clarke removed from the recall election ballot. While failing to note specifically what it was that Vosburgh said, Metz said she would not be disrespected at a public meeting, and she asked the commission to resume the practice of reading the civility pledge code at the start of city meetings. Vosburgh refrained from comment at the time, but issued a written statement later in the week. “It is unfortunate that Mrs. Metz chose the city commission

meeting to verbalize her obvious anger with personal issues toward me. I am always available to the citizens to come to me with their concerns, and I would have been happy to work with her on her issues. “Public comments made at city meetings are not meant for personal attacks or disrespect. As the chair of the meeting, it is the mayor’s responsibility to prevent this from happening, but I can understand why he was reluctant to do so because of their close friendship and how hard Mr. and Mrs. Metz are working on his recall election campaign,” Vosburgh’s statement said.

During last week’s commission meeting, LeeAnne Metz complains about comments previously made by Commissioner Jan Vosburgh. JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

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THE SUN

TOWN CRIER Spring Fling Friday The 12th Annual Spring Fling will held at the Seafood Shack Marina Bar and Grill at 4110 127th St W. Cortez on Friday, May 15, from 6 to 11 p.m. This year’s theme is the Red Carpet Gala and it is a parents’ night out to raise money for the PTO. In addition to donated items, each classroom creates a piece of art that would be cherished forever by the highest bidding family that acquires it. Tickets are $50, and they may be purchased at the school. For more information, contact AME PTO President Amy Talucci at 941 812-7253 or e-mail islandlifeinfo@ gmail.com.

Kids make recycled beauty The Manatee County Library System is holding a recycled materials fashion show on Saturday, May 16, at the Central Library, and the public is invited to participate. Entrants must be at least 13 years old and no older than 19. They must have attended a mandatory meeting on Monday, May 11, or attend one on Wednesday, May 13, at 6 p.m. at the Manatee County Central Library. Kids are allowed one entry each.

BEACH BEAT Anna Maria

5/4, 8:42 a.m., lost property, 9701 Gulf Drive, Slim’s Sports Bar. The victim said he left his backpack with fishing gear in it outside the bar, and when he went to retrieve it the next day, it was gone. 5/5, 6:55 p.m., information, 300 block of Poinsettia Road. A man turned a handgun over to the deputy for destruction. 5/5, 11 a.m., lost property, 400 block of Magnolia. The complainant said she lost her medication. She said she remembered getting it, but did not remember where she placed it.

Bradenton Beach

5/9, 12:40 p.m., disorderly intoxication, 200 Bridge Street. Two officers responded to a fight on the Bridge Street Pier with one of the males flashing a knife. They found him, and he disobeyed orders to put down the knife three times. Both officers took him into custody, and he was arrested.

Cortez

5/5, 7:43 p.m., battery, domestic related, 10300 block of Cortez Road West. The mother and victim said her daughter began an argument that turned physical. The daughter was arrested. 5/9, 2:40 a.m., DUI, 10100 block of Cortez

Entrants are allowed to model their own creation or find someone else to model it. If so, they have to choose the model. Makeup artists and hair stylists will be available to provide services one hour before the show. Clothes must be family friendly in nature. Inappropriate entries will not be allowed. Entries will be displayed on a cat walk while judges ask questions about the designs. To enter the 2015 Recycled Dreams Fashion Show, log onto www.mymanatee. org/library/teens.

Fundraiser for De Soto Monument The Friends of De Soto are sponsoring a Sunset Cruise on Saturday, May 16, at 7:30 p.m. on Sarasota Bay aboard boats provided by Paradise Boat Tours. The boat leaves from the Historical Bridge Street Pier for a leisurely, informative 90 minute cruise. Tickets are $35 per person and all proceeds benefit De Soto National Memorial educational programs. Cruise around historic Sarasota Bay on a tour boat provided generously by Paradise Boat Tours, and get glimpses of Florida’s marine ecosystems and beautiful keys. For reservations, visit the Friends of De Soto Website www.friendsofdesoto.org and click on the cruise button. Choose “May 16, 2015 Cruise.”Activities are subject to change due to weather.

Road West. The deputy responded to a one-car crash with a rollover and when he talked with the driver, he smelled alcohol on the driver’s breath. The driver said he drank a pitcher of beer and only remembered trying to pass a car. He failed a field sobriety test and was arrested.

Holmes Beach

5/1, 4:22 p.m., theft from a building, 5344 Gulf Drive, Hurricane Liquors. The clerk said an unknown white make came into the store and asked to use the bathroom. The clerk told him there was no bathroom there, and he would have to go to the store next door. Customers came in and the clerk took care of them and then he went to the back of the store and found the male standing there. He told the male again there was no bathroom and he would have to go next door. More customers came in and after they left, the clerk checked the back and found the rear door was open and the man had taken a case of Crown Royal whiskey worth $300. 5/1, 10:44 p.m., battery, 300 block of 68th Street. Police responded to the scene and found that the couple had been arguing, and her boyfriend kicked the windshield of her car, cracking it. He broke her iPhone, and she took his and ran. She punched him when he caught her. After police arrived, she refused to sign a complaint. The officer arrested the boyfriend for damaging her car and phone.

MAY 13, 2015

Auditions set for Bradenton idol

Use the meeting room

The Del Couch Music Education Foundation has announced an additional audition date of Thursday May 28, from 6 to 10 p.m. for the inaugural Bradenton Area Idol contest. Auditions on this date are by appointment only. Appointments can be made by first contacting Terri Davis via terri. couchmusic@gmail.com or leaving a message and phone number at 941-705-0231. Entrants will be contacted with further information on where the audition is being held and what time. All persons between the ages of 10 and 27 are invited to audition. The audition cost is $20. Solo performers only prepare a 90-second audition of their selection a capella. Those under the age of 18 must have a parent or guardian with them to sign waivers and be present during the audition. Twenty contestants will be selected to compete in a series of competitions to be held at the Manatee School for the Arts. The top 20 will perform on June 6, the top 10 on June 20 and the top five on July 18. The winner will receive a scholarship to the Del Couch Music Education Foundation, the opportunity for a recording contract with independent recording studio Howling Dog Records, which will include a full production CD and presentation to industry insiders.

The Anna Maria Island Community Center has a soiree room on the first floor reserved for the AMI Community Connections group of residents who banded together because residents are leaving their neighborhoods. Community Connections founder and president Sissy Quinn opens the doors every Wednesday at 2 p.m. for fellowship. She invites all who want to stop in for some lively discussion.

Obituaries Leonard Douglas Yates, Jr. Leonard Douglas Yates, Jr., 86, died May 3, 2015. Born Dec. 13, 1928, in Washington D.C., he moved from Vienna, Va., to Bradenton in 1968. He was married to Valarie Brown Yates and they have resided in Live Oak, Fla., for the past 27 years. They had six children, three boys and three girls: Leonard D. Yates, 11 (deceased), Debra Byrd of Myakka, April Matthews, of Duncan S.C., Patricia Stanton, of Temple Terrace, Fla., Charles D. Yates and Robert R Yates of Live Oak Fla.; 10 grandchildren, Adam Spencer, Leonard D. Yates II, Austin Bell, Mary Willard, Lauren Baldwin. Devon Conway, Kyla Yates, Brensen Yates, Levi Yates, Clark Yates and Kimberly Martin; five great-grandchildren; a very special niece, Deanna Williams, of Sandy Level, Va.; and his only friend, Rick Brown of Gulf Port, Fla. Mr. Yates was an electrical contractor, builder and real estate agent/investor. He built the landmark Tropic Isle, on the S curve in Bradenton Beach. He was an actor with the Manatee Players and Island Players where he was a past president. A celebration of life will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, May 16, 2015 at Brown & Sons Funeral Homes &

Catch problems in time You could be alerted to possible stroke or other health problems by taking Prevention Plus Stroke and Vascular Screening offered Thursday, May 21, at the Anna Maria Island Community Center, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria. The screenings are being offered at reduced prices. They include stroke/carotid ultrasound for $40, abdominal aortic aneurysm for $40, arterial disease test for $40, thyroid ultrasound for $40, abdominal ultrasound for $95 and heart scan-echocardiogram for $95 or all six tests for only $179. Blood tests, liver, cholesterol, PSA and TSH tests are also available. To register, call 888-667-7587.

Crematory, 43rd Street Chapel, 604 43rd St. W, Bradenton. Memorial donations may be made to the FLDR (Florida Dachshund Rescue) or your local animal shelter of choice or hospice. Mr. Yates loved all dogs and hospice was a true blessing for him and his entire family the last three months. Condolences may be made to www. brownandsonsfunera.com.

Frederick K. ‘Freddie’ Welch Frederick K. “Freddie” Welch, 91, of Holmes Beach, Fla., formerly of Andover, Mass., died May 10, 2015. He is survived by his loving children, Frederick K. Welch Jr., Pam Benham, Jill Welch, William Welch, Robyn Bensinger and Matthew Welch; sister, Evelyn Shea; 10 grandchildren; and nine great grandchildren. Frederick is preceded in death by his wife of 43 years, Helen, and parents, William and Helen Welch. Freddie was a World War II Navy and Korean War veteran. He retired as a Police Officer in Andover, Mass. A memorial service will be held at 11 am on Sat. May 16, 2015, at Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, Holmes Beach, Fla. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to VFW Post 10141, Bradenton, Fla.

MAY 13, 2015

FUN IN THE SUN

Across 1 Barn birds 5 "A Fish Called __":1988 Cleese film 10 Jordan Spieth's org. 13 Hair-removal brand 14 Olympics chant 16 Onassis nickname 17 *Cause championed by Martin Luther King, Jr. 19 Nintendo's Super __ 20 Somme summer 21 "Love __ Open Door": "Frozen" duet 22 Paris tower designer 24 "I __ noticed" 26 *Military branch 28 Archaeological artifact 29 Cold War CIA foe 30 Assents at sea 31 Capital of Libya 33 Morally bad 36 "Catch my drift?" 37 On the __: escaping

Answers to 05-06-15 Crossword Puzzle.

38 Like steak tartare 39 Unused 42 Reverse, as a computer operation 43 Newman song played after a Dodgers home victory 45 Pass up 48 Long or Peeples 50 "The Grapes of Wrath" family 51 *Five-sided figure 54 Mottled mount 55 Sign up 56 Old MacDonald's place 58 Seething state 60 Brian of ambient music 61 Late-May observance, whose first word can follow each answer to a starred clue 64 Org. with narcs 65 Buffalo NHL team 66 "__ Dinah": Frankie

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Avalon hit 67 Moth-eaten 68 Papas' partners 69 Vietnam neighbor Down 1 __ in a blue moon 2 "Don't move until I get back" 3 Be habitually dishonest 4 __ Lanka 5 German sausage 6 Japan's locale 7 Words from a beleaguered spouse 8 "Boy, am I dumb!" 9 Daisylike flower 10 Cook in a skillet 11 Plato's country 12 Theater walkways 15 "Yeah, right!" 18 *Bearded Mount Rushmore president 23 Stable baby 25 Guacamole, e.g. 27 Spain and Portugal 28 NFL linemen 29 Japanese robe 32 Young fellow 34 Actor Kilmer 35 *Iconic WWII flag-raising island 39 "Clever thought!" 40 Legendary city of gold 41 "What __ I thinking?" 42 At most 44 Maria __ Trapp 45 Skimpy swimwear

brand 46 Hound hotel 47 Damaging encroachment 49 Break the news to

52 Charitable gift 53 Sparkle 54 Overly proper type 57 Pi r squared, for a circle 59 Baby blues

62 CEO's degree 63 "Bad" cholesterol letters

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ANNOUNCEMENTS BEACH YOGA ON Saturdays & Sundays at 8:30am at the end of Pine Ave by the Sandbar Restaurant by donation. www. thriveyogafit.com VOLUNTEERS NEEDED at AMICC. Help your community by giving of yourself. Various positions available. Call Sandee 941-778-1908 ext 0 THE BEST VOLUNTEER position on the island. The AMI Historical Museum needs docents and bread makers. Call Dusty at 941779-7688. ROSER FOOD BANK needs donations of cash and non-perishable food. Donations boxes are located at the Church, Moose Club, Walgreen's and The Anna Maria Island Sun Newspaper (corner of Gulf and Palm). OUR DAILY BREAD of Bradenton is looking for volunteer servers 9amnoon. Ask for Penny 941745-2992 PROBLEMS WITH THE IRS or State Taxes? Wall & Associates can settle for a fraction of what you owe! Results may vary. Not a solicitation for legal services. 877-330-3429 STRUGGLING WITH DRUGS or Alcohol? Addicted to Pills? Talk to someone who cares. Call The Addiction Hope & Help Line for a free assessment. 855-995-3142

BABY SITTER BABY SITTER. Honor student with own transportation. Experienced, References available. Call or text Amanda at 941-713-3219 RED CROSS CERTIFIED baby sitter. Honor student. Call or text Isabel 941-545-7995

BOATS: PARTS & SERVICES & SALES BOATS ARE SELLING, Very Busy. Cortez High & Dry Marina-Top Location. Islandboatsales. net WE ALSO BUY BOATS. 941-228-3489 BOAT SLIPS FOR RENT. Up to 60 feet. Two minutes to Intracoastal Waterway by Cortez, Parrot Cove Marina 941-795-0088

Call us today! 941-778-3986

LOTS OF BOAT for the money. Bayliner 27' Weekender/Fisherman. Small Merc V8 with trailer. See on Island $8900 Call 941356-1456

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

CLEANING SERVICE C & T HOUSEKEEPING. For all your cleaning needs. Free Estimates. Reasonable rates. Senior discount. References available. Call 941-9622512 CLEANING: RESIDENTIAL, COMMERCIAL & RENTALS. "Have it done your way, we care about our work" Call 941-7564570 PRESSURE WASHING AND WINDOWS residential, commercial & resorts. Roofs, buildings, houses, driveways etc. Call 941-251-5948

COMMERCIAL SALES/ LEASES/RENTALS ANNA MARIA CITY Gulf Drive Frontage Commercial 2 Lots 104x120 Real Estate only $1,200,000. Call Alan Galletto Island Real Estate 941-232-2216 RESTAURANT/OFFICE/ RETAIL 1113 sf Kitchen Equipment include Gulf Drive Bradenton Beach $495,000 Call Alan Galletto Island Real Estate 941-232-2216 BAR/RESTURANT 2100 ft2 with lease, includes Liquor License, Furniture and Good Will $599,000 CALL ALAN GALLETTO Island Real Estate 941-232-2216}

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

MAY 13, 2015

EMPLOYMENT

FOR SALE

FULL TIME AND PART TIME lumberyard positions available at Island Lumber and Hardware. Must have valid Florida DL; CDL a plus but not required. Knowledge of lumber and ability to lift/ load in excess of 60 lbs. Must be able to handle fast-paced environment. We are a drug free workplace. Job entails loading trucks and delivering to job sites, stocking lumber, assisting/loading customers vehicles. Competitive pay. Please come by and fill out application. 213 54th Street, Holmes Beach.

REFRIGERATOR. GE PROFILE SS 3 door model. Perfect condition, $1800 new, asking $900. From AMI estate. Also Dish Washer, Dryer set, more. Call 410782-9100

SALES ASSISTANT PART-TIME Busy office, strong communications skills, computer skills. Need to be flexible. Send Resume to PO Box 1394, Anna Maria FL 34216 BARBER NEEDED NW BRADENTON. Good job. Ask for Bob Call 941-792-5020 TEAM PLAYERS NEEDED Busy AMI Deli has 2 parttime deli clerk positions available. Great opportunity to work 10-15 hours a week for some extra spending money. Must be flexible and have good "People Skills". Apply in person at Jessie's Island Store, 5424 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach and ask for April or Jimmy IF YOUR LOOKING for a change this season Read On. Seasonal Busy Italian Restaurant in the Adirondacks upstate New York seeking to add Team culinary members season months Late May thru October this job is perfect for the person to leave for the summer & returning back in the fall in time for season to start there. Looking for Line Cook, Pizza Cook ,Fry Cook. Must have exp. Top pay free room & board. Text or Call 917-621-6085 AVIATION GRADS WORK with JetBlue, Boeing, Delta and others- start here with hands on training for FAA certification. Financial aid if qualified. Call Aviation Institute of Maintenance 866-314-5838

DISH TV STARTING at $19.99/month (for 12 mos.) Save! Regular Price $34.99 Call Today and Ask About Free Same Day Installation! Call Now! 888986-4858 SAWMILLS FROM ONLY $4,397.00- Make & Save Money with your own bandmill- Cut lumber any dimension. In Stock, ready to ship! Free Info/DVD: www.NorwoodSaw mills.com 800-578-1363 Ext.300N

FURNITURE CUSTOM COASTAL FURNITURE & CABINETS by Frankie Z. ebay store. Call 941-726-1482. 10015 Cortez Rd (corner of 101st) frankiezaff@yahoo.com TWO TWIN BEDS, dresser w/ hutch, nightstand $200; Queen w/ mirrored dresser, bureau, nightstand $200; Coffee, end table set $100. Call 941-962-5827 HERITAGE KING SIZE bedroom set. 7' dresser, mirror, 2 night cabinets’ w/glass tops, headboard. New $5000. Will sacrifice $600. Call 937-478-2453

GARAGE, MOVING, RUMMAGE & YARD SALES SALE NIKI’S. 5351 Gulf Dr, Holmes Beach. Select Gifts, Beach Art, Books, Miniatures, Glassware, Vintage & Costume Jewelry, Bric-Brac 30% to 80% off. All sterling & gold 20% to 60% off. Coming Real Soon Great Swim Wear Shop and Beach Accessories, Size. Great buys in Swimsuits! Open 7 days a week 9:30-5. ROSER THRIFT SHOP Open 9:30a.m.-2p.m. Tuesday and Thursday. 10a.m.1p.m Friday and Saturday Annex open as above. Donations accepted Wednesday 9a.m.-11a.m. 511 Pine Ave., Anna Maria Call 941-779-2733

HOME IMPROVEMENTS TILE! TILE! TILE! All variations of tile supplied and installed. Quality workmanship. Prompt, reliable, many Island references. Free estimates. Neil 941-726-3077 RENOVATION SPECALIST ALL carpentry repairs, Wash Family Construction, locally owned and operated CBC 1258250 Call 941-7250073. KERN CONSTRUCTION NEW Homes & Remodel. Design/Build. Since 1968. State License # CRC1327296. Call Jerry Kern 941-504-2222 www. kernconstructioninc.com “HONEY DO" HOME Repairs & Handyman Services. 35 yrs experience. Painting, drywall, tile, woodwork. All tasks. Call 941-896-5256 or 941-807-5256 www.honey dohomerepairinc.com

HOME SERVICES HEADED BACK HOME? I'll keep an eye on your seasonal home until you return. Weekly Security inspections. Email or text reports after each visit. Scott Ricci 941-6858999 amihomecheck@ aol.com DRAIN CLEANING James VanFossen A.K.A. “RIP” Call 941-301-6077

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

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

LOST & FOUND FOUND 2GB SD Card in the sand at the walkover beside the Sand Bar Restaurant several weeks ago. Pictures of Children on Camel on card. Please contact Bob at the Anna Maria Island Sun Newspaper 941-778-3986 FOUND: SMALL FEMALE CAT, grey, short tail, white paws. 9th St South Bradenton Beach. Very affectionate. Call Dan 603-5201998 FOUND PRESCRIPTION ITALIAN sunglasses in water on Saturday, April 4. Call 813-679-9662 LOST FAMILY HEIRLOOM during Wedding at Sandbar Restaurant on Sunday March 29. Gold wedding band with Diamond pendant near high water mark. Please contact 407-7609033 LOST BLUE ZIPPER Case with keys, flashlight attached to wristband. Near 84th/83rd & Marina Dr. Holmes Beach Call 941313-0528 LOST PANDORA BRACELET many charms. Great sentimental value. Call 518-365-2702 MISSING 18 INCH GOLD chain with diamond drop, sterling silver seed bracelet , location Blue Water Beach Club between 9/12 & 9/13/2013 heartbroken was gift from husband 45 years ago REWARD please call 863-668-8566 no questions asked

MOVING & STORAGE MARTIN’S MOVING YOUR Island movers! Offering dependable, competitive rates. No hidden costs. 941-809-5777. TWO MEN and a TRUCK. Movers who care. Local and Long distance. www. twomen.com Call 941-3591904. We sell boxes!

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MAY 13, 2015

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PAINTING & WALLCOVERING

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

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

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

“WIZARD OF WALLS” Established 1980 Prompt quality service. Paperhanging/removal Faux finishes. Interior painting. Mary Bell 941794-0455

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

WALY PRECISION PAINTING custom painting, pressure washing, commercial/residential, interior/ exterior, drywall/stucco, Licensed & insured. Call 941-448-1928 or 941-5804005 www.WalyPrecision Painting.com

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

PERSONAL SERVICES SMALL ODD JOBS, yard work, walk dog etc. Call George 941-773-5518 THE TINT GUY." Commercial, residential, automotive, marine. Free estimates. All work guaranteed. Over 25 years experience. Mobile service available. Call 941-2012649

PETS MOBILE GROOMING splash and dash $35.00. Also full grooming available. Check our testimonies, call today www. furrytails4grooming.com or call 941-224-8655 ANNA & LINDSAY’S Dog Walking. $5 per dog walked, $10 Dog wash. $20 for both plus play time. Contact 917-406-9554. Anna Maria Island Only.

PHOTOGRAPHY NEW AERIAL AMI PHOTOS. PhotosFromTheAir.com. email: photosfromtheair@ gmail.com or Call 941-7739834

POOL SERVICES FOUR SEASONS POOL SERVICE. AMI & West Bradenton. Certified Pool Operator. Residential/commercial. {Chemical Service} Licensed & Insured. Call Dennis Clark 941-737-5657

REAL ESTATE HOMES & CONDOS FOR SALE SPACIOUS 3BR/3BA Condominium rarely available in wonderful bay front complex with pool and tennis courts. Tastefully renovated to include newly tiled kitchen & family room with a peak of the bay and a split bedroom plan. Centrally located in Holmes Beach, with a short walk to shops. Ground-floor unit with covered parking and private storage. Family oriented and pet friendly. Offered at $450,000. Call Green Real Estate @ 941-7780455 BRING YOUR BOAT! Canal villa with no bridges to ICW. Renovated 2BR/2BA villa w/carport, in gated community. 23 foot dock. Open plan, Update kitchen & baths. $249,900 Katharine Pepper, RoseBay International 941-755-2100 or 941-792-9459 HARBOUR ISLE HOME$40,000 in upgrades! Beautiful! REDUCED to $549,000. Perico Bay Club Villa- Very well maintained! $229,000. Call Kathleen today! 941-773-0165 Island Real Estate

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BEST PRICED CONDO on Island. 3BR/3BA 2 car garage. Only $285,000! Offers weekly rentals. Karen Day Fineout, Wagner Realty 941-518-3682 LOWEST PRICED WATERFRONT home on AMI. 2BR/2BA Sea Side Gardens Villa. Must see view! 33 Sea Side Court. captnse@ gmail.com or call 970-8467394 FOR SALE by OWNER 1BR/1BA in historic Sandpiper co-op resort with bay view, boat docks, beach completely new inside and out. Call 941-224-1652 for more details NEAR COLLEGE UPDATED 2BR/1BA. New roof, windows, flooring, kitchen. Carport $89,900 Realtor Call 941-356-1456 PANARAMIC INTRACOASTAL VIEW. Like New 4BR/5BA, elevator, 4 car garage, pool & boat dock $1,300,000 OBO Real Estate Mart 941-756-1090 or 941-713-9835 4BR/3BA HOUSE on 71.5 acres with 18 stall horse barn in Parrish, Florida. Call Steve Georgie 941-321-6253 at Keller Williams Realty

REAL ESTATE: LOTS FOR SALE GORGEOUS LOT (14,160 Sq. Ft) (80 X 177) Located at 1107 Palma Sola Blvd. Stunning views of Palma Sola Bay with great potential for new construction. For more details contact Gregg Bayer at AMI Beaches Real Estate 941-799-9096 WEST SIDE PRIVATE Lakefront Lot 70 x 130. Nondeed restricted $37,500 OBO. Realtor Call 941-3561456

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RENTALS: ANNUAL 2BR/2BA home, 55 + community, 1,600 s/f water & trash incl. w/d, community pool & shuffle board, Golf privileges available. Big yard, canal view, tile & carpet, Newly renovated throughout . 1 car garage, close to shopping & restaurants. Available immediately East Bradenton $1,600/ mo. 1st, last & security. 2BR/2BA home 1650 s/f lawn care incl. w/d , tile & wood , 1 carport, 1st, last $1,350/mo, $1000 sec dep. Available immediately. NO PETS AT THIS PROPERTY Near St. Stevens. Pinebrook Condo 2BR/2BA 1500 s/f golf course frontage beautiful condo w/ den, Wood floors, splendid granite kitchen, vaulted ceilings great views, carport. $1,500/mo, first, last & security. Credit & background required on all applicants over 18. DUNCAN REAL ESTATE 941-779-0304 www.teamduncan.com ANNUAL RENTAL and CONDOMINIUM Association management serviced by (2) offices open 7 days a week! Contact kate@ islandreal.com – 941-3451295 - Island Real Estate of Anna Maria Island, Inc. ANNUAL RENTALS: 3BR Townhouse in Palma Sola Trace. 1 car garage, heated community pool. Brand new! $1700/mo. First, Last, Security. Contact kate@ islandreal.com or 941-3451295. Island Real Estate. ANNUAL RENTALS WEST BRADENTON: 2BR/2BA house with large yard 3803 15th Ave W $1300/ mo. 3BR/2BA/2CG Duplex $1300/mo. First & 1 month Security deposit. Credit check required. Call 941809-2488 ANNUAL RENTAL HOLMES BEACH Small 1BR efficiency. Available May 1 $850/ mo First & 1 month security. Credit Check required. Call 941-809-2488 BRADENTON BEACH Owner managed 3BR/2BA townhouse. Nice gulf views. 3 stall parking. Pets considered. Steps to beach. Furnished/unfurnished. $1700 Call 941-782-8556

GRAND CANAL POOL Home For Rent 3BR/2BA ground level with garage and new dock. $2,400/ month Call 941-7788660

RENTALS: SEASONAL & VACATION TIFFANY PLACE Gulf Front Condo for Rent Incredible views from living room and master bedroom. 2BR/2BA Green Real Estate Call 941-778-0455 ANNA MARIA ISLAND, Fl Condos. Pool beach access, fully equipped $650-$750/ wk Redekercondos.com 941-778-1915 WILLKOMMEN AUF AMI! Besuchen Sie Island Real Estate in einem unserer Inselbüros (6101 Marina Drive oder 419 Pine Ave) mit unserem deutschsprachigen Reservierungsservice und erhalten ein freies Island Real Estate Baseball Cap! Wir geben Ihnen gerne mehr Auskunft über unsere 250 ausgewählte Feriendomizile für Ihren nächsten Urlaub! 1/BR /1BA BEACHFRONT CONDO 55+ Community Holmes Beach 1st Floor. Pool. Available May - January. 2 Month Minimum. $1900/mo Call 941-7478454 2BR/2BA GROUND LEVEL updated Single Family Home. Available May thru October. Available Memorial week $800/wk. Call 941-893-0039

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

TRANSPORTATION AMI TAXI metered-on-callcards accepted. Airport services: Tampa $85, Sarasota $35, Clearwater $75, Fort Meyers $150, Orlando $150. Call 800-301-4816. amitaxi4u@gmail.com, www.amitaxi.com TOWN CAR SERVICES, All airports served. Local and Long distance services available. Call Glen 941225-0072

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MAY 13, 2015

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MAY 13, 2015