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VOL 15 No. 11

January 7, 2015

Gail and Ed Straight Sun Persons of the Year

2014

Year in Review BY PAT COPELAND SUN STAFF WRITER | pcopeland@amisun.com

joe hendricks | sun

Gail and Ed Straight, along with their grandson, Devon Straight, and Pawnee, the rescued bobcat, inside the holding pens at Wildlife Inc.

While others spend their retirement enjoying the beaches, boating or golfing, Ed and Gail Straight spend their days rescuing wildlife. BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

BRADENTON BEACH – For their continued commitment to caring for injured and ailing members of the animal kingdom, through their Wildlife Inc. Education and Rehabilitation organization, Gail and Ed Straight have been named The Sun’s 2014 Persons of the Year. The wildlife sanctuary that began

INSIDE NEWS OPINION Sun survey outdoors Art real estate crossword classifieds

4 6 7 22-23 25 28-33 35 36-39

as a hobby in 1987 now serves as the primary rescue and rehab facility in Manatee County, and beyond. Operating from their home on Avenue B, the non-profit organization received nearly 3,000 calls for assistance in 2014, resulting in approximately 2,000 animal intakes. About 80 percent of those taken in are later released. Due to the extensive injuries, illnesses or conditions, some became permanent residents, while others, according to federal regulations, are subject to mandatory euthanization. “It’s been a really busy year,” Gail said, half-heartedly questioning see STRaights, page 32

THE ISLAND – Once again Island news was dominated by issues related to the influx of tourism created by aggressive marketing combined with the irresistible attraction of our beautiful Island. Officials struggled to find solutions ranging from a gondola to banning parking on residential streets to a moratorium to attempts to repeal a state law prohibiting municipalities from creating legislation that would regulate rentals. To aid in finding solutions, the three Island cities have contracted with the Urban Land Institute (ULI) to perform an Island-wide study this year. The ULI provides guidance to communities in addressing problems associated with land use, development and growth. But that’s for tomorrow; today we look back at 2014.

Preserving paradise

The $16 million beach renourishment project was completed in March. Neal Preserve opened in April.

On the menu

straight/wildlife inc. | submitted

Holmes Beach shut down the mobile kitchen at the Tiki Bar in January and gave the owner a laundry list of requirements to meet. The owner wore a path between the business and city hall attempting to meet the requirements and attend city commission meetings to seek approval. In February the city OK’d the kitchen and in June it OK’d the site plan. The Cast-n-Cage restaurant opened on the Bradenton Beach Pier in February. However,

Garfield, the screech owl, is a star attraction at public appearances.

see review, page 16

New year’s Eve

shamrock Shiver raises

on the Island was fun for everyone. And their little dog, too. 19

$22,000 for needy children. 10

Anna Maria Island, Florida

the colonel retires at 100.

The Island’s award-winning weekly newspaper

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THE SUN

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JANUARY 7, 2015

LIC.#CFC1426956 ~ CPC 1458020

www.lapenseeplumbing.com 778.5622 * 401 MANATEE AVENUE , HOLMES BEACH

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JANUARY 7, 2015

THE SUN

Mullet dumping continues If you see a fisherman dumping dead fish overboard, call the FWC hotline at 888-404-3922. BY CINDY LANE SUN STAFF WRITER | clane@amisun.com

Mullet fishermen were out in force again last week, netting high-dollar red roe carried by females and discarding unwanted male mullet overboard. Dead mullet washing up onto Anna Maria Island beaches poses an annual problem to the Manatee County Parks and Natural Resources Department, which struggles to keep up by raking the beaches clean, according to director Charlie Hunsicker. “We’re hoping that the FWC (Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission) would recognize that the number of dead fish is a public problem,” he said, suggesting that they could post a law enforcement officer on the water like a Florida Highway Patrol officer stationed on the interstate to slow drivers down. “The fishermen understanding the law maybe wouldn’t break it then.” FWC officers are on patrol and are looking for this behavior, FWC spokesman Gary Morse said, adding that anyone who sees fishermen dumping dead fish overboard can help them by calling the FWC hotline at

CINDY LANE | SUN

Mullet roundups are a common sight this time of year in the Gulf of Mexico and Sarasota Bay, as fishermen from all over the state come to reap the ocean’s harvest. 888-404-3922. The county will continue to monitor and clean the beaches, Hunsicker said, adding, “It’s thankless that we have to follow behind them and clean up the males on the beach. It’s a travesty.”

The fish are not victims of red tide, as no red tide was reported by FWC in the Gulf of Mexico last week. Water quality was listed as good at all five bacteria testing stations on the Island on Monday, Dec. 29, the last test date, accord-

ing to the Florida Department of Health’s Healthy Beaches Program. Food bank officials say they can’t afford to transport, ice and process raw fish, even if fishermen agreed to bring them to the dock and donate them.

THE SUN

ISLAND NEWS

in brief

Recall petitioners closing in Eighty-six signed petitions to recall Mayor Bill Shearon have been received so far, according to the committee running the effort. A total of 100, signed by registered voters, must be obtained by early next week for the recall to continue. The collected signatures will be presented to acting City Clerk Terri Sanclemente no later than Thursday, Jan. 15, and forwarded to the Manatee County Supervisor of Elections Office for verification. If at least 100 signatures are deemed legitimate, Shearon will be given five days to submit a 200-word written response to the charges contained in the original petition. His rebuttal and the original charges would then be contained in a second petition form that would require signatures from at least 15 percent of the city’s 763 registered voters, which equates to approximately 115 signatures. If either petition drive falls short of the required number of signatures, the recall effort ends. Petition sheets can be obtained via e-mail at recallshearon@ gmail.com.

Road report Road construction and maintenance projects might slow traffic in the overnight hours, according to the Florida Department of Transportation. Construction crews are making drainage improvements along Gulf Drive from Coquina Beach to 13th Street South. Expect lane closures between 8 p.m. and 6 a.m., Monday through Friday. This project will end in the early part of 2015, weather permitting. Maintenance continues on the Cortez Bridge. Crews will work on the bridge expansion bearings and joints, beams, fender wall, sidewalks and the electric system in the bridge tender house, including the generator. Motorists should note that driving across the bridge will feel bumpy due to the crews jacking up the bridge to remove and replace the bridge expansion bearings. Crews will also work Friday nights from 9 p.m. to 6 a.m. for concrete pouring. In case of bad weather, they will do it on Friday night.

Island life lecture Join Larry Stults, Peter Stults and Debbie Stults Harvey for a free lecture on “Island Life,” a discussion of the trials, tribulations and joys of life on Florida’s west coast from 1944 to 1969, at the Florida Maritime Museum, 4415 119th St. W. in Cortez, Wednesday, Jan. 14, at 3 p.m. Reservations are required; call 941-708-6120 visit http://floridamaritimemuseum.org.

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JANUARY 7, 2015

A look ahead to 2015

The new year brings much to do for city officials, city staff, and members of the city’s advisory boards.

city by Shearon, Tjet Martin and Jo Ann Meilner, with the BeachHouse ownership group later joining the city as co-defendants. The suit pertains to the previous commission’s approval of development agreement that allows parking on the southern portion of the BeachHouse property. A comp plan fix would impact other properties along Gulf Drive and would require the super majority support of at least four commissioners. Shearon and Commissioner Janie Robertson have expressed opposition to the comp plan amendment, while the city planner and Commissioners Clarke, Ed Straight and Jan Vosburgh support it. Shearon’s forfeiture of office lawsuit against the city also remains unresolved, as does Tjet Martin’s public records suit. Strategies to defend Martin’s suit will be discussed at Thursday’s commission meeting.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

BRADENTON BEACH –2015 promises to be another interesting year in Bradenton Beach.

Recall, forfeiture or status quo?

The city enters 2015 with Mayor Bill Shearon’s status still undecided. The commission-driven forfeiture of office proceedings remain on hold while the recall committee tries to secure enough petition signatures to force a special recall election. If either of the two signature drives fall short, the recall effort dies, and Vice Mayor Jack Clarke will have to decide if he wants to reinitiate the forfeiture process.

Future development

Pier open; cell tower operational

The reconstructed city pier is scheduled to reopen this month, making it available again for residents, visitors, boaters and folks who enjoy fishing. The reopening should benefit the Castn-Cage restaurant tenants, who are also expected to reopen their bait shop. The new cell tower will be activated in early 2015, when Verizon and AT&T install the proprietary equipment required to render the tower operational. In addition to improved reception, the activated tower will generate additional money for the city, which gets a share of the quarterly revenues.

Charter Review

The Charter Review Committee comprised of Rick Bisio, John Burns, Dan DeBaun, Barbara Hug and Barbara Rodocker will soon begin their review of the city charter. Any proposed amendments will be presented to city commissioners, who will decide which, if any, are placed on a future ballot.

LDC revisions

The Planning and Zoning Board, City Planner Alan Garrett and Building Official Steve Gilbert spent much of 2014 reviewing the revised land development code. The board is still reviewing later chapters of the code, but the first three chapters, deemed by Garrett to be the most important, will soon be presented to commissioners. Proposed changes include increased

FILE PHOTO

Cell phone reception should improve with the activation of the new tower in early 2015. height allowances for manufactured and mobile homes in order to provide greater flood protection and lower insurance rates, decreased setbacks along certain areas of Gulf Drive that would make it easier and cheaper to replace ground level structures with elevated structures and potential changes to open-air dining parking requirements.

Litigation pending

On Thursday, Jan. 8, commissioners, City Attorney Ricinda Perry, and attorney Charles Johnson will conduct a non-public shade meeting to discuss potential means of resolving two lawsuits involving Ed Chiles, the BeachHouse restaurant ownership group, the city and the mayor. In an effort to address these lawsuits, the commission recently voted 3-2 in favor of city staff continuing their efforts to draft a comprehensive plan amendment that would resolve the Preservation land use designation dispute that is at the heart of the of the 2012 suit filed against the

One commissioner has expressed concerns about the possibility of large rental homes becoming a bigger issue this year in the city that has been relatively free of the debate that has raged in Holmes Beach and Anna Maria in recent years. 2015 could also see Michael Hynds moving forward with plans for a proposed development on Bridge Street that would feature 10 small retail spaces and a second story, open-air restaurant. According to the Planned Use Development agreement approved by the commission in 2013, Hynds is not required to provide parking for restaurant and retail patrons. BeachHouse owner Ed Chiles is expected to present plans later this year for a third phase of renovations that would result in second story, open-air dining atop his beachfront restaurant. Fred Bartizal’s Bridge Tender Inn will soon offer outdoor dining and drinking along Bridge Street, when the existing sidewalk is reconfigured at his expense to accommodate city requirements.

Fall elections

If Shearon remains in office, his seat will be among three up for grabs in November, along with those held by Clarke and Robertson. Shearon and Clarke have indicated a desire to run for reelection, and depending on the outcome of the recall and forfeiture efforts, Clarke could be running for a commission seat or the mayor’s seat he would hold if Shearon is ousted.

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JANUARY 7, 2015

THE SUN

Mayor seeks speedier cell tower completion Florida Tower Partners moved the cell tower completion from February to April due to a slow permit process and a custom deck design. BY TOM VAUGHT SUN STAFF WRITER | tvaught@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA – Mayor Dan Murphy was unhappy with the estimate of time it would take to get the city’s cell phone tower up and running, so he met with the company representative in charge of the project last Friday to see what could be done. Murphy and Building Official Bob Welch met with Kevin Barile, of Florida Tower Partners, at city hall. The result was a plan that would start portions of the project before they get approval from governing bodies that would eventually approve it. For instance, the tower needs approval of its exact location from the Federal Aviation Administration, and the company moved the tower’s location slightly last year, requiring new approval. Because the move is so slight, it was considered a shoe-in for approval.

“I knew when I was campaigning for office that the cell tower was the biggest issue on residents’ minds,” Murphy said. “What can we do to bring this to conclusion?” The timeline from Florida Tower Partners showed the tower would be ready April 17 for the two carriers – AT&T and Verizon – to install their equipment. Barile said one problem is the platform around the tower where the carriers would have equipment. Barile said this is a unique design, and the company had to engineer the platform to withstand the weight of each carrier’s equipment. “I have to coordinate the design to withstand the load of the equipment by the carriers,” he said. “When they drop their equipment down onto the deck, it has to be located within a sixteenth of an inch (of a designated location).” Barile also said the company was going to use a billboard to camouflage the equipment, but Murphy said that was not necessary for getting the tower operational. “Don’t let that hold you up,” he told Barile. “We don’t want that to delay it.” Barile looked at his timeline and said he had designated a week for the city to issue a building permit.

tOM VAUGHT | SUN

From left to right: Kevin Barile, of Florida Tower Partners, Anna Maria Mayor Dan Murphy and Building Official Bob Welch met at city hall to find ways to shorten the wait for a new cell phone tower. “If I get the right information, I could get it done by then,” Welch said. They discussed the permit and asked if the city could permit just the tower’s construction so they could start on the immense hole they have to dig and fill with concrete to make sure the tower’s base is stable. Barile said that would shorten the timeline by 14 days.

Murphy asked about having work crews work on Saturdays, but the city’s noise abatement law prohibits Saturday construction. Welch said they could get an exemption from the law. In all, they estimated chopping off a few weeks and the tower could be ready for the carriers’ equipment by early February – weather permitting.

THE SUN

OPINION

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

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JANUARY 7, 2015

EDITORIAL People who care

ongratulations to Bradenton Beach residents Ed and Gail Straight, recipients of The Sun's 2014 Persons of the Year award. The couple are the founders and operators of Wildlife Inc. Education and Rehabilitation, a wildlife sanctuary that began modestly in 1987 as a hobby and which now serves as the primary rescue and rehab facility in Manatee County. The Straights run the non-profit organization from their home and their amazing story reads like something out of a Carl Hiaasen novel. This year alone, the couple received roughly 3,000 calls for assistance in helping injured or ill wild animals. About 2,000 of those were taken in by Wildlife Inc. and more than 80 percent of those later were released back into the wild. Sometimes, the animals are hurt so bad or are so ill that the Straights keep them permanently. One look at the menagerie of hawks, raccoons, pelicans, squirrels, songbirds, wading birds and other assorted creatures inside their compound reveals just how much these two people care for Florida wildlife and the environment in which we all live. s Sun reporter Joe Hendricks reports in his story in today's edition, the Straights could be out enjoying their retirement by golfing, boating or doing any of the activities available here in the Sunshine State. But no, Ed and Gail spend their days rescuing wild animals. Usually, that means eight hours on the job, sometimes more. Ten calls for help in a day is not uncommon. And they do all this for no pay, relying on donations to offset the $60,000 in expenses they have each year. "They are the best of the best," said Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch & Shorebird Monitoring Director Suzi Fox. We couldn't agree more.

To find out what the Straights need or to make a donation go to www.wildlifeinc.org, or call Wildlife Inc. at 941-778-6324.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Don't blame the fishermen Dead, wasted mullet, floating in the gulf, and on the beaches, rotting. That's what you asked for when you outlawed gill nets in 1995. We used large mesh nets in roe season, which filtered out most of the male and small females to live and continue to produce. But the smart people knew more than those of us who had fished here more than a 100 years. There were trucks here every day hauling these fish to markets all over the country as a food staple. That market was also destroyed by the gill net ban. Now the fish rot on the beaches. Smart? J.O. Guthrie Cortez

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

Thoughts on parking Editor's note: The following letter was originally addressed to the Holmes Beach City Commission The parking committee did a great job of finding parking spots, dealing with the state and county, and with the public. We owe them a big thanks. I completely agree with the idea of no parking on the right of way. I have thought it a wonderful idea since my first trip to Sanibel where they have this policy in place. The city needs to be careful when they create the final ordinance, that it controls parking and not just stops "strangers" and "outsiders" from parking on the right of way.

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

The idea discussed at Tuesday's workshop would not solve the parking problem - it would only allow Holmes Beach residents to park on our streets. The streets could still be crowded with residentsâ€™ cars and the people of Holmes Beach (would) look like elitist snobs because we have made it clear that strangers are not welcome. And I do not think that is the case, nor do I think that's what the parking committee really intended. Perhaps we should not allow parking on the right of way by anyone anywhere except in front of their own house. Ellen Stohler Holmes Beach

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

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

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JANUARY 7, 2015

THE SUN

the sun survey

on the agenda

LAST WEEK’S QUESTION: What are you looking forward to in 2015?

Anna Maria

2% 0%

Finding a job.

10% Waking up each morning.

1/8: City Commission work session, 6 p.m. 1/12: Environmental Education and Enhancement Committee, 6 p.m. For information, call 7086130.

Bradenton Beach 107 Gulf Drive N.

50%

34%

Enjoying liviing in this beautiful place.

Moving off the Island.

1/7: Pier Team, 11 a.m. 1/8: City commission meeting, 6 p.m. 1/13: City commission work session, 1 p.m. 1/14: City commission work session on comprehensive plan, noon. 1/14: Planning and Zoning Board, 2 p.m. 1/15: City commission/department head meeting, 1 p.m.

What would you do to stop dead mullet from washing up on the beaches?

• Form a committee to study the situation. • Require all mullet to be dumped in one place for easier collection and disposal. • Have FWC patrol

the waters more aggressively. • Ignore the whole thing. It only happens once a year. • Repeal the net ban so fewer unwanted fish are caught.

To vote, go to www.amisun.com or scan this code to vote by smartphone. But don't just vote – let us know what else you think. Send your comments about this week's topic to news@amisun.com or post them in the comments section of our website.

Results are printed on this page every week in the Anna Maria Island Sun.

Wednesday Jan. 7

Early Settler’s Bread for sale, AMI Historical Museum, 402 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., $5. Gulf Coast Writers, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 1 p.m.

Thursday Jan. 8

Lecture by restaurateur Sean Murphy, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2 p.m. Sneak peak tour, Perico Preserve, north side of Palma Sola Causeway, east of Harbour Isle development. Reserve to 941-748-4501, ext. 6039.

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Friday

Email your favorite sunset photo of the week to sunfb@amisun.com and we will

Alzheimer’s Caregiver’s group, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2 p.m. Opening reception for “Classic Black and White” exhibit, Anna Maria Island Art League, 5312 Holmes Blvd., Holmes Beach, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Opening reception for Joe Fletcher’s “Gulf Coast Nature Photography,” Island Gallery West, 5368 Gulf Drive in S & S Shopping Plaza, Holmes Beach, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.

post the best one on our SUNset Sundays. HOW TO SEND US A LETTER TO THE EDITOR Got an opinion, a complaint or a compliment? Is there something you need to get off your chest? Send us a letter to the editor and have your say. There are several ways to make your opinion known. Visit our website at www.amisun.com and click on the “contact us” link at the top of the home page. Or, e-mail The Sun directly at news@amisun.com. If you prefer the old-fashioned way you can mail a letter to us at The Anna Maria Island Sun, Island Sun Plaza, P.O. Box 1189, Anna Maria, FL 34216. Letters should be kept to 300 words or less and should contain your name and the city in which you reside. Personal attacks and obscene language will not be printed. Letters also may be edited for length and content.

Holmes Beach 5801 Marina Drive

1/7: Parks and Beautification Advisory Board, 4 p.m. 1/9: Island Congestion Committee, 2:30 p.m. 1/15: City commission meeting and work session, 7 p.m. For information, call 7085800.

Island-wide

1/8: ULI Committee, Anna Maria City Hall, 3 p.m. 1/12: ULI Committee, Anna Maria City Hall, 3 p.m. 1/15: 1/12: ULI Committee, Anna Maria City Hall, 3 p.m. 1/15: West Manatee Fire Commission meeting, 6417 Third Ave. W., Bradenton, 6 p.m.

mark your calendar Note: Events are free unless indicated.

THIS WEEK’S SURVEY

For information, call 7781005.

10005 Gulf Drive

Keeping my job.

Taking cooking lessons.

Jan. 9

Opening reception for watercolorist Ruth de Haan, Artists’ Guild Gallery, 5414 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.

Saturday Jan. 10

Privateers’ Thieves’ Market, Coquina Beach parking lot, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Naturalist-led wagon tour, Robinson Preserve, 99th Street Northwest and 17th Avenue Northwest, Bradenton, 9 to 10 a.m., first come, first served. Master Gardener tour, Riverview Pointe Preserve, end of 75th Street, Bradenton, 9 to 10 a.m. Reserve to 941-722-4524. Origami class, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m. Lee Mears demonstrating Kids Art for Grown-Ups, Island Gallery West, 5368 Gulf Drive in S & S Shopping Plaza, Holmes Beach, 10:30 a.m. to noon. Music on the porch, Florida Maritime Museum, Cortez Road and 119th Street West, Cortez, 2 to 5 p.m.

Sunday Jan. 11

Beach Market, Coquina Beach, Bradenton Beach, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. see CALENDAR, page 8

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THE SUN

calendar FROM PAGE 7

Bridge Street Market, Bradenton Beach, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Monday Jan. 12

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. Social bridge game, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., noon.

Tuesday Jan. 13

Children’s story time, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m. Duplicate bridge, Church of the Annunciation, 4408 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, 12:30 p.m. Memory screening, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2 p.m.

Wednesday Jan. 14

Early Settler’s Bread for sale, AMI Historical Museum, 402 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., $5.

Thursday

Sunday

Tai Chi and Qigong class, Robinson Preserve, 99th Street Northwest and 17th Avenue Northwest, Bradenton, 10 to 11 a.m. Reserve to 941-742-5757, ext. 6. Friends of the Island Branch Library Book Club, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m. Successful Women Aligning Together, Bridge Street Bistro, 111Guf Drive, Bradenton Beach, 11:45 a.m. to 1:15 p.m. Members, $12, guests, $17. RSVP to swatami@gmail.com. Historian James Schnur speaks on “Traveling Back in Time: A look at the Tampa Bay area in the early 20th century,” Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2 p.m. Bingo, Annie Silver Community Center, 103 23rd St. N., Bradenton Beach, 7 to 9 p.m. Refreshments available for purchase.

Master Gardener tour, Robinson Preserve, 99th Street Northwest and 17th Avenue Northwest, Bradenton, 9 to 11 a.m. Reserve to 941-722-4524. Beach Market, Coquina Beach, Bradenton Beach, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Bridge Street Market, Bradenton Beach, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Jan. 15

Friday Jan. 16

Needlework group, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2 p.m. Opening reception for “Thru Artists’ Eyes,” The Studio at Gulf and Pine, 10101 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.

Saturday Jan. 17

Kindle E-Book help, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2 p.m.

Jan. 18

Monday Jan. 19

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. Social bridge game, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., noon.

Tuesday Jan. 20

Children’s story time, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m. Duplicate Bridge, Church of the Annunciation, 4408 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, 12:30 p.m. Author lecture by Cathy Slusser, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 1 p.m. Couch to 5K fitness program, Robinson Preserve, 99th Street Northwest and 17th Avenue Northwest, Bradenton, 5 to 6 p.m. Reserve to 748- 4501, ext. 6044.

JANUARY 7, 2015

No Kill TV: 'To The Rescue' Holmes Beach Commissioner Jean Peelen said she is “happy and excited” to announce the launch of a new television show called “To the Rescue: The Journey to No Kill.” In 2011, Manatee County declared its intent to become Florida's first No Kill community, and the METV show chronicles the county’s efforts to become one of one of approximately 400 communities nationwide with an animal shelter save rate of 90 percent or higher. “We have been moving toward that goal, but not without some huge bumps in the road,” Peelen said. “My second love, after serving Holmes Beach, is supporting the No Kill effort, and my co-host, Deb Starr, and I are thrilled to be involved in this project. We welcome comments, suggestions and ideas for future shows and will be shooting monthly.”" Watch “To the Rescue” at www. youtube.com/watch?v=l8vpbHkrohM, or enter “To the Rescue - December 2014” in the You Tube search engine.

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JANUARY 7, 2015

THE SUN

Runners ready for Dolphin Dash There are two races, a 5-K for longer distance runners and a one-mile race for the kids and anyone else who wants to compete. BY TOM VAUGHT SUN STAFF WRITER | tvaught@amisun.com

HOLMES BEACH – Anna Maria Elementary School will be a hive of activity on Saturday, Jan. 10, for the Tenth Annual Dolphin Dash. The action begins 7 a.m. with registration, followed by the 5-K run at 8 a.m. and the one-mile race at 9 a.m. After that, the runners will gather on the front lawn for presentation of the awards. There will also be door prizes and refreshments. The Bradenton Runners Club is sanctioning the races, and runners will get T-shirts for participating. There is a whole list of trophies by age and gender. Every participant in the one-mile run will get a ribbon. Students at the school have been training for the one-mile run in the school’s running club, which meets

Owner Steve Traves Outdoor Pro

FILE PHOTO

Chuck and Esther Duzee, favorites of the Bradenton Runner’s Club, won their respective age brackets during last year’s race. twice a week behind the school and before classes to train. Organizer Jesse Brisson said he had about 80 kids who would run in the race. Proceeds from the race go toward the PTO. To register, log onto bradentonrunnersclub.com and find a link under “Events” or log onto www.

runnergirl.com. The cost if registered by Jan. 5 is $25 for adults, $15 for kids under 18 and $22 for Bradenton Runner’s Club members. For race day registration, adults will pay $30 and children under 18 will pay $15. For more information, call 941-713-4755.

AMI OUTFITTERS

PADDLEBOARDS & KAYAKS FLY-FISHING INSTRUCTION TECHNICAL CLOTHING

Coastal Gear & Apparel

YOUR PROFESSIONAL OUTDOOR STORE

505 Pine Avenue

Anna Maria

amioutfitters.com 941-254-4996 7 days 9 to 6

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THE SUN

JANUARY 7, 2015

judy immer | SUBMITTED

Shamrock shiver Clancy’s Shamrock Shiver on New Year’s Day raised about $22,000 for needy children and families. Here, the Anna Maria Island Buzzy Bees fortify themselves before taking the plunge into the chilly water.

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JANUARY 7, 2015

Rare birds spotted in Audubon bird count SUN STAFF WRITER | clane@amisun.com

CINDY LANE | SUN

A marbled godwit is an unusual sight on Anna Maria Island. America. The count is the longest-running citizen science survey in the world, providing critical data on bird population trends. To get involved in next year’s event, visit http://birds.audubon.org/ get-involved-christmas-bird-countfind-count-near-you.

Grant to fund climate change health response The Florida Department of Health in Manatee County has received a $10,000 grant to prepare for the health effects of climate change. The grant, awarded by the Florida Department of Health, will be used by DOH-Manatee in partnership with Manatee County Emergency Management Services to develop plans to safeguard the public against climate change impacts, such as heat exposure-related illness from rising temperatures and an increase in mosquito-borne and waterborne diseases resulting from higher temperatures and flooding. “As temperatures rise, we must have plans in place to protect the health of our residents. For example, during heat waves, we will need to provide safe options for those without air condition-

BY CINDY LANE

Two unusual birds, a marbled godwit and a white-winged dove, were spotted on Anna Maria Island during the 115th Annual Audubon Christmas Bird Count on Sunday. Dick Comeau, Stu Wilson, John Ginaven and John van Zandt surveyed the area north of Anna Maria Elementary School for the National Audubon Society’s Fort De Soto Circle, which includes the southern part of Pinellas County and the northern part of Manatee County. The birders counted 49 species, including a marbled godwit on the beach near Bean Point and a whitewinged dove off the beach. One bald eagle also was spotted. Local brown pelicans outnumbered visiting white pelicans 35 to 27. European starlings were the most prevalent bird, with 425 counted, and laughing gulls were not far behind with 414 counted. Nearly 400 red knots, newly-designated by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service as a threatened species, also were counted on the Island, where they rest during their migration of thousands of miles from the Canadian Arctic to the southern tip of South

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ing,” said Dr. Jennifer Bencie, DOHManatee administrator, in a press release. “We have to sharpen and solidify our emergency preparedness plans for climate change now, so we are prepared for the future.” The grant focuses on the application of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Building Resilience Against Climate Effects (BRACE) program, which was developed as part of CDC’s Climate-Ready States and Cities Initiative to support health departments in incorporating climate change models into routine planning and response activities. More information on the BRACE initiative can be found at www.floridahealth.gov/environmental-health/ climate-and-health/BRACE1/index.html.

Bird watching classes offered The Manatee Audubon Society will teach its popular Beginning Bird Watching course this month in five classes from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. on Monday, Jan. 19; Wednesday, Jan. 21; Thursday, Jan. 22; Wednesday, Jan. 28; and Thursday, Jan. 29; at Hope Lutheran Church, 4635 26th St. W., Bradenton. Students will spend two full days on field trips, which begin at 7 a.m., on Sat-

urday, Jan. 24 and 31, at Felts Audubon Preserve, in Palmetto. Teachers hope to see and identify at least 100 bird species at these field trips. The fee for these classes is $50, plus an Audubon Society full year’s household membership at $20. To participate, contact Steve Black at 941-376-0110 or sblack@gmail.com (best choice).

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JANUARY 7, 2015

Community Connections to host dance The group was formed to bring residents who have lost neighbors and gained rental houses in their communities together. BY TOM VAUGHT SUN STAFF WRITER | tvaught@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA â€“ Community Connections of the Anna Maria Preservation Trust is alive and kicking after the holidays with plans for a Valentineâ€™s Day Dance on Friday, Feb. 14, from 6 to 8 p.m. â€œMy husband, Tom, bid on and won two hours of the Bradenton Swing Band performance,â€? said Sissy Quinn, who organized the club. â€œWe called Anna Maria Island Community Center Director Cindy Thompson and asked if we could have a Valentineâ€™s Day dance there to raise funds for the Center.â€?

She said Thompson was enthused and would make arrangements for the dance. The group has met regularly since last summer and started a list of activities in which some members might want to participate together. Quinn said there has been some success in getting members to participate, but the main goal is to maintain a feeling of community among those whose neighborhoods are disappearing. â€œPeople who come to our soirees love it,â€? she said. â€œWe have made it so people with visitors can take them to the soirees.â€? Thompson was out of town for the holidays, and could not be reached for comment in this story. For more information, call Sissy Quinn at 778-5120 or e-mail amipt@ outlook.com. There is a Facebook page under Anna Maria Island Preservation Trust.

Garlic Mussels - Cedar Reef Fish Camp

â€œ

At age 13 I began working in fine dining restaurants. The idea behind Cedar Reef Fish Camp was to use the same high quality ingredients to create delicious (yet affordable) food and serve it in a casual non-fussy atmosphere. Cooking is more than my hobby, itâ€™s my therapy â€“ thatâ€™s what makes me an Original! I am extremely grateful for the opportunity to serve our community delicious meals every day. When you dine at Cedar Reef Fish Camp, please ask for me. I look forward to cooking for you! Dean Donnelly, Owner, Cedar Reef Fish Camp

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EAT LIKE A LOCAL DineOriginal.com 15 South Ristorante â€˘ Andreaâ€™s â€˘ Anna Maria Oyster Bar â€˘ The BeacHhouse Restaurant â€˘ The Bijou CafĂŠ â€˘ Blu Mangrove Grill â€˘ Blu Que Island Grill 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€˘ 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

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The Colonel retires at 100 Col. Bob Elliott became a member of Key Royale Golf Club in 1968, three years after the club opened, and served as president in 1972. BY TOM VAUGHT SUN STAFF WRITER | tvaught@amisun.com

HOLMES BEACH – Key Royale Golf and Country Club’s three closest parking spots are reserved for the ladies champion golfer, the men’s champion golfer and Col. Bob Elliott. The champions may or may not be champions the next year, but Col. Bob Elliott has been there longer than the rest and has outlived most past presidents. Col. Elliott, as he is known, was the center of attention last Saturday night at the club as more than 100 people gathered to celebrate his 100th birthday. Born Jan. 2, 1915, Elliott sat in the corner with his wife, Bea, as people came up congratulate him. Elliott was also celebrating retirement from his volunteer position as the person who opens the door and gets the club ready for the day. “I’ve known him since 1995, and when we got there in the morning, he would be there making coffee or taking care of the tournament money,” said Fred Meyer, who at 93 is the second oldest golfer behind Elliott. “He is very steady, caring and friendly.” Elliott gave up golfing as he became dependent on a walker, but he still came in to open up the club. “He never missed a day,” said Charlie Knopf, another golfer. At the birthday celebration, family friend Fred Miller choked up as he spoke of his friend. The compliments came in during the evening about the way he cared for

TOM VAUGHT | SUN

Dozens of people gathered at Key Royale Club Friday night to celebrate the 100th birthday of club matriarch Robert Elliott, who was also celebrating his retirement from his unofficial position as the person who opens up every day. The Key Royale Club first opened in 1965 and Elliott joined in 1969 with his wife, Bea, who was at his side Friday night. Family friend Fred Miller choked up as he spoke of Elliott, who was an active player well into his 90s. Elliott blew out the candles to his cake and thanked everyone, saying he would still visit the club, although, he would leave the job of opening up every morning to someone else. the club and the people Club employee Al Cross said he was quite pleased to have gotten to know Elliott in the 18 months he has worked there. “His was the first face I saw every morning,” Cross said. “He always had a nice smile and a story.” Cross said Elliott was a wealth of information who loves golf and the

people at the club. One other thing he loves is chocolate, Cross said, adding he and his wife gave him enough to last the month after the party. Elliott is an accomplished golfer who won tournaments well into his 90s. He was also very strong. “If he was 40 yards from the hole,

he would use a putter to sink it,” said Meyer. When Elliott walked over to the, cake, he blew out the candles to the cheers of the crowd. The people were happy for his longevity, but they knew they would miss him preparing the club for another day.

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JANUARY 7, 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 MISSION OF THE MONTH

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Former Passage Key Air-to-Ground Gunnery Range Remedial Investigation/Feasibility Study The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is conducting a Remedial Investigation/Feasibility Study of the former Passage Key Air-to-Ground Gunnery Range, a Formerly Used Defense Site which is now the Passage Key National Wildlife Refuge. During World War II, the military used the land for bombing and aerial gunnery training. The purpose of the study is to determine if anything from the WWII training is still there. This notice is to let you know: We are conducting a Remedial Investigation/Feasibility Study. Project documents are in the Island Library (5701 Mariana Drive). We are soliciting interest in a Restoration Advisory Board. It is important for the public to participate in the remedial process, so the Corps is considering establishing a Restoration Advisory Board. These boards include people from the community and government. They review and comment on plans and technical documents related to environmental studies and restoration activities. Members serve as voluntary liaisons between the community and the Corps and receive no compensation. If you are interested in serving, please email FUDS.Florida@usace.army.mil or call 866.279.4880.

For More Information: Visit: Island Library at 5701 Mariana Drive, Holmes Beach or www.saj.usace.army.mil Call: 866.279.4880 Email: FUDS.Florida@usace.army.mil

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Deputy praised for caring actions Kathleen Long, of Anna Maria, praised Deputy Steve Stewart for his care while reuniting a man with his dog that died. BY TOM VAUGHT SUN STAFF WRITER | tvaught@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA – A 23-year resident and member of the animal rescue network wrote kind words about Manatee County Sheriff’s Deputy Steve Stewart for his actions in returning a deceased dog to its owner. In an e-mail to Sgt. Paul Davis, head of the sheriff’s patrol in Anna Maria, Kathleen Long wrote about the incident that occurred around mid-December. She said she got a message around 5 p.m. one evening reporting that the body of a dog that washed up near the Anna Maria City Pier earlier matched the description of a 17-year-old Jack Russell terrier that was reported missing in Palmetto. The owner was desperate to know if it was his. Long drove up to city hall and talked with Deputy Eddie Hernandez, who got in touch with Stewart, who had already left his shift for the day and was on his way home. Stewart drove back to the Island and spoke with Long. He told her he would like to speak to the owner, which he did, and the owner came out to the Island to see if the dog was his. According to Long’s letter, “With great care and gentleness, Deputy Stewart prepared the little dog’s body for viewing. I had already confirmed the dog’s identity using photographs posted on social media and waited with Deputy Stewart for the man’s arrival. When he arrived, Deputy Stewart and I stood by while the man viewed the body of his beloved pet. He was distraught and in obvious emotional dis-

FILE PHOTO

From left, Sgt. Paul Davis with Deputy Steve Stewart at an earlier event where Stewart was honored for his 10 years of duty. tress. Deputy Stewart stood by quietly, offering comforting words and a gentle shoulder to the grieving man. He stayed until the man regained his composure and left us alone to talk until he felt ready to take his pet’s body home.” Long praised Stewart’s actions. “I was highly impressed by the compassion and gentleness shown to this grieving man. I want to commend Deputy Stewart for his exemplary handling of this distressing situation, and I want you to recognize what a special man you have on your force. I see him patrolling my street at night and am comforted to know he is out there, performing a sometimes thankless and dangerous job. I am very grateful for the kindness that he showed me and the stranger who was desperate for answers and closure. He went above and beyond the call of duty and spent his own time helping a citizen in need. Please convey my appreciation to him and his supervisors.”

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JANUARY 7, 2015

review: 2014 year in review FROM PAGE 1

in September the owners sought rent abatement and refunds of $30,000 due to pier reconstruction impacting the business. The city approved a rent reduction, but the owners fell behind on rent payments in October, November and December. Relish, the quirky boutique and restaurant in Anna Maria closed without warning in April when the owner disappeared into the night.

It’s been good to know you

Anna Maria City Clerk Alice Baird resigned for health reasons in January. Roser’s Rev. Gary Batey retired in January. Long time Harvey Church organist Betty Simches retired in April. Island Library employee Mary Ellen Sabo retired after 15 years.

Counting clerks

Bradenton Beach hired a new city clerk in January, but dismissed her in June due to bad evaluations. Shortly thereafter, the acting clerk resigned. A new city clerk was hired in August, but questions arose over her qualifications and previous employment history. She became emotional at a city commission meeting and asked for vote of confidence, then took two weeks off. She returned but was dismissed in October due to unsatisfactory performance. She has now charged the city with discrimination. Who’s checking those resumes?

file photo

Neal Preserve, Manatee County's newest preserve and the one closest to the Island, opened in April.

Changing positions

Building Official and Superintendent of Public Works Tom O’Brien resigned due to health reasons. Jackie Featherson became principal at Anna Maria Elementary. Dr. Robert O’Keef became pastor at Roser Church.

Not in my back yard

In January, Bradenton Beach cell tower neighbors opposed its location, but the city commission said the contract was legally binding. Ground was

broken in June and the tower is nearly complete in December. In January, Anna Maria city commissioners approved a cell tower lease. However, in October residents opposed its location. In December the city commission affirmed its location, giving residents hope that they can talk on the phone in the comfort of their homes instead of the ends of their driveways. A special master approved a setback variance for a two-room Bradenton Beach hotel, but a neighbor filed an appeal. The appeal was dismissed, and the neighbor filed another ap-

peal, which also was dismissed. In other action, the planning and zoning board recommended denial of a special exception use to create the hotel in the C-1 zoning district. In January, Holmes Beach residents opposed an application to rezone a property on 54th Street from R-2 to C-3 and extend the mixed-use overlay in order to build two offices with two residences above. The owners changed the request from C-3 to C-1 in July, but withdrew the application after more protests by neighbors who oppose commercial zoning in a residential area. Anna Maria City commissioners imposed a moratorium on new construction or remodeling of homes with four or more bedrooms or rooms that could be bedrooms. They hired an outside attorney to write an opinion on whether the city could ban shortterm vacation rentals and he opined that they already were illegal under the city’s code. The city commission then recuses its city attorney on the rental issue because his family owns a rental house in the city. The city commission plans to hire another attorney to opine on the outside attorney’s opinion, giving rise to the question, “How many attorneys does it take to impose a moratorium?” see review, page 29

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JANUARY 7, 2015

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City sued over building permit 7+ 67 &7 : &257(= )/ 7+ 67 &7 : &257(= )/

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HOLMES BEACH â€“ Leah Marie Enterprises and its majority member, Kathleen Morgan, have fled suit against the city and its interim and former building officials and former mayor over property at 626 Key Royale Drive asking the court to compel the city to issue a building permit. More than a year in the making, the issue began when the

building official at the time, Tom Oâ€™Brien, shut down the construction site at the home in January 2014. In a report, Oâ€™Brien said the contractor could only remove and replace a maximum of 30 percent of the roof structure and maintained that work exceeded the 30 percent. In March, Morgan filed a petition with the Florida Building Commission claiming the 30 percent rule was erroneous. The FBC said the â€œproject in question would not be classified as substantial structural damageâ€? and that â€œflood design requirements for new construction are only triggered if the

project exceeds the 50 percent ruleâ€? as described in the Florida Building Code. Morganâ€™s attorney, David Johnson, then filed a Bert Harris Property Rights Protection notice and the city responded with a settlement offer in which the owner would submit an engineering analysis including an evaluation of wind load, revised construction plans documenting renovations, documentation to demonstrate that the work does not constitute a substantial improvement and pay any fees for a building permit. Johnson then filed the lawsuit.

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JANUARY 7, 2015

Dolphin expert opens lecture series Dr. Randal Wells, dolphin specialist at Mote Marine, will kick off the Longboat Key Historical Society’s 2015 Lecture Series on Thursday, Jan. 15, at 7 p.m. at the Christ Church of Longboat Key, 6400 Gulf of Mexico Drive. Wells began studying the bottlenose dolphins of Tampa Bay in 1970, while he was an intern at More Marine Laboratory. He has participated in the world’s longest study of a dolphin population, and these dolphins are year-round residents who live together in multigenerational groups. He will talk about the threats these animals face and what we can all do to coexist. These talks are free, and seating is on a first-come, first served basis.

Dr. Randal Wells H O L I S T I C

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JANUARY 7, 2015

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New Year's Island bash Residents and visitors rang in the New Year in all the traditional ways last week, saying goodbye to 2014 and greeting 2015 with celebrations from Pine Avenue to Bridge Street. It was a night to forget the challenges of daily life and to remember old friends, while enjoying the camaraderie of new acquaintances. All in all, a fine beginning to another year on Anna Maria Island. joe hendricks | sun

Newly relocated Bradenton Beach resident Ashley Garcia with guitarist Ted Stevens during Island Timeâ€™s New Yearâ€™s Eve celebration. Below right, Drift In owner Joe Cuervo, with his wife, Angie, celebrate at the Drift. Below left, Bradenton Beach seasonal resident Ed Cavazos, center, celebrates with fellow Michiganders Michelle, Rob and Mike Owens.

joe hendricks | sun

maggie field | SUN

joe hendricks | sun

2015 arrived at Island Time in the form of Karen MacKay, who splits her time between Bradenton Beach and Toronto, Canada.

maggie field | SUN

Above, Madison Dreiier and Emily Mulrine, both of Bradenton, enjoy the evening at the tiki bar. Below, Bradenton Beach residents Nancy Kim and Steve Schewe ring in the new year with a kiss.

maggie field | SUN

Above, Bernie Czarniecki and his popular dog, Nikita, enjoy libations at the Bridge Tender Inn's tiki hut. Right, Chayane Woods and Mike Wallen savor the sights and sounds of New Year's at the Bridge Tender tiki bar.

maggie field | SUN

JANUARY 7, 2015

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JANUARY 7, 2015

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OUTDOORS

JANUARY 7, 2015

Divining the signs of fish C

atching fish isn’t about being in any particular honey hole. Anglers who know how to look for the signs of the presence of fish are more adept at catching fish no matter what the time, tide or weather. While there’s no secret formula to fishing that assures even the most astute angler success on the water, being aware of the signs that point to action can make the difference between a successful or fishless day. Most anglers know to look for the obvious signs of action such as a feeding frenzy on the water’s surface or feeding birds hovering over a school of baitfish, prey that’s being driven to the surface by feeding fish. Fewer know that lots of birds feeding on a dry flat at low tide is a good sign of finding fish on the next high tide. There are many subtle signs that might be missed if you’re not aware when you’re out looking for fish. Savvy anglers know that schools of mullet are

Reel Time RUSTY CHINNIS a good indication that redfish may be present. Reds often travel with mullet, using their distraction and the fact that they disturb the bottom to point the way to prey such as minnows and shrimp. Many guides will avoid a flat if there are no mullet present. Another sign of a productive place to fish is the presence of other sea life such as rays, dolphin or even schools of catfish. While this is not a sure sign that your particular prey species might be present, time can be saved if a particular flat or area is barren of any life. Working the water with an eye to structures that attract fish is a good way to find action when there are no

rusty chinnis | sun

Exploring a grass flat at low tide can provide clues to good areas to fish outward signs of activity. Grass flats are known to be productive places to fish because they provide the cover, food and ambush spots for species such as redfish, snook and trout. How

to fish a flat and where to concentrate your efforts can be the difference in finding and catching fish. The flats are see reel time, page 23

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JANUARY 7, 2015

reel time: Divining the signs of fish FROM PAGE 22

contoured, and have features such as potholes of bare sand and slues that funnel water on and off the flat. Fish travel these areas as the water rises and falls with the tide. Learning the features of an area before you fish it can pay dividends. This might mean paying attention to the elevations of a particular area during a low tide when the flat is exposed. Fish often use the exposed sand areas of a flat as an ambush spot. Fishing the potholes on a flat effectively means approaching them quietly from a distance and making casts that cover the area starting on the edges and working across the hole. Often there will be an area of grass at one end of a flat or another. These areas can be particularly produc-

tive and should be prospected carefully. Structure is always worth checking out, whether itâ€™s a jetty in a pass, a rock pile in the bay or a piece of debris that has blown up on a flat. Structure can also include limestone bottom on the Gulf bottom or in the bay, crab traps or even a floating piece of discarded timber or a coconut. Since there isnâ€™t much structure in the open Gulf, small minnows and crustaceans often use what they can find for protection. Predators know this and check out these structures. Wherever you are keep a sharp eye out for signs of fish that might not be so apparent. Divining the signs, apparent or subtle, can make a big difference in your success on the water.

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Cobia showing up in bay and Gulf Captain Rick Grassett

Anglers fishing with me on my Action Craft flats skiff the Snook Fin-Addict, out of CB's Saltwater Outfitters on Siesta Key, caught and released trout, Spanish mackerel, bluefish and cobia on deep grass flats of Sarasota Bay on CAL jigs with shad tails during the past week. With water temperatures around 70 degrees, cobia have been showing up in areas of Sarasota Bay and the coastal gulf. Keith McClintock, from Illinois, and his son Steve McClintock, from Pennsylvania, fished deep grass flats on the west side of Sarasota Bay with me on Monday. They caught and released trout, bluefish, Spanish mackerel, jack crevalle, ladyfish and a cobia on CAL jigs with shad tails. Denis Clohisy and his son, Deny, from Wisconsin, fished the coastal Gulf with me on Tuesday. Our plan was to sight fish for tripletail, but with sea fog, cloud cover and a chop, conditions weren't great. With not much happening on the surface, we went to an area of structure where we spotted a splash on the surface which was a school of six or more big cobia. Deny

connected with a nice cobia on a CAL jig with a shad tail, and they also had some shots at tripletail with DOA Shrimp, CAL shad tails and flies. Joe Brinkmeyer and Jim Brady, from Cincinnati, Ohio, fished Sarasota Bay with me on Friday and Buddy Hammond, from NJ, fished with me on Saturday. We fished deep grass flats on both sides of the bay, and action was similar each day, catching and releasing trout, ladyfish and scattered blues and Spanish mackerel on CAL jigs with shad tails. Trout, blues, Spanish mackerel, pompano and more should be good options on deep grass flats of Sarasota Bay. Look for reds and big trout mixed with mullet schools on shallow flats and edges of bars. Tripletail and false albacore should be good options in the coastal Gulf, depending on conditions. Look for albies feeding near the surface and tripletail around crab trap buoys. Catch and release night snook fishing in the ICW is also a good option now. Fish peak tidal flows for the best action.

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SPORTS

JANUARY 7, 2015

AMICC winter sports kickoff BY MONICA SIMPSON SPECIAL TO THE SUN

New year’s celebrations can only mean one thing at the Anna Maria Island Community Center: winter sports. Flag football players and volleyball players young and old have been preparing to take the field and the court for another fun-filled winter sports season at the center.

Youth Flag Football

Taking the football field in January are more than 20 youth teams, with 18 volunteer coaches leading area boys and girls. After the traditional pasta dinner banquet on Friday, Jan. 9, at 6:30 p.m., children ages 5 to 17 years old will be pulling flags, rushing, catching and throwing on the grid iron starting on the Saturday, Jan. 1 with the Tailgate Spirit Day. Spirit Day is a fun-filled day of football, with every team meeting opponents head-to-head kicking off the season. The day is also full of team spirit. Family and friends will adorn tents and themselves with their favorite team’s colors. Playing eight regular season games, the Center’s youth flag football league will come to an apex on Friday, March 13. The top two playoff finishers for

each age group playing on the big field will meet in the ultimate and much anticipated AMICC Super Bowl.

Tailgate Spirit Day Schedule 5-7-Year-Olds (Instructional League) Packers (Coach Will Schenerlein) vs. Colts (Coach Tom Baugher) 10 a.m. Colts vs. Titans (Coach Brad Hoover) 10:15 a.m. Titans vs. Packers 10:30 a.m.

8-10-Year-Olds

Bears (Coach Dave Johnston) vs. Chiefs (Coach Larry Pearson) 10 a.m. Lions (Coach Ray Gardner) vs. Bucs (Coach Gary Harlen) 10:30 a.m. Dolphins (Coach Dusty Bates) vs. Seahawks (Coach Joe Christianson) 11 a.m. Lions vs. Vikings (Coach Rob Alderson) 11:30 a.m.

11-13-Year-Olds

Bucs (Coach Roger Guthrie) vs. Cowboys (Coach Zak Yos noon Lions (Coach Joel Snyder) vs. Seahawks (Coach Mark Berreda) 12:30 p.m.

Colts (Coach Matt Ray) vs. Saints (Coach Darren Horesh) 1 p.m. Colts vs. Dolphins (Coach David Higgins) 1:30 p.m.

14-17-Year-Olds

Cardinals (Coach Larry Pearson) vs. Ravens (Coach John Smith) 2 p.m. Falcons (Coach Ray Gardner) vs. Bucs (Coach Ben Stewart) 2:30 p.m. Eagles (Coach Matt Ray) vs. Redskins (Coach Joey Carder) 3 p.m.

Adult Flag Football

The winter sports season will see the big boys and girls take the football field as well. With two adult co-ed flag football leagues at Center, men and women of all ages will make up the 14 teams that will start play on Wednesday and Thursday, Jan. 7 and 8. The eight-week regular season leads to the playoffs beginning on Feb. 25 for the 18 and over league, while the 30 and over league will play their first playoff games on March 5. Like the youth flag football league, the adults will end the season with the AMICC Super Bowl on March 11 and 19, respectively.

Kickoff Week Schedule

18 and Over League (Wednesday, Jan. 7) Giants vs. Colts 6 p.m. Saints vs. Rams 7 p.m. Dolphins vs. Falcons 8 p.m. Bengals vs. Patriots 9 p.m. 30 and Over League (Thursday, Jan. 8) Vikings vs. Chargers 7 p.m. Raiders vs. Giants 8 p.m. Packers vs. Chiefs 9 p.m.

Adult Volleyball

The adult volleyball league played its first game last night. For the next five weeks, the volleyball court will be taken over by four tough teams seeking fun competitive play. Played twice a year at the Center, the winter league finds many veteran recreational league players spiking, lobbing, digging and serving in the gym. At the end of regular season play, the teams will meet up on Tuesday, Feb. 17, for the league playoffs. The championship game is scheduled for Tuesday, April 1, where only one team can be awarded the ultimate reward of the season. For more information about the AMICC sports program, contact Athletic Director Matt Ray at 941/778-1586 or Matt@myamicc.com.

Variance appeal rejected again A recent court ruling paves the way for the potential construction of a two-unit hotel. BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

BRADENTON BEACH – The circuit court has rejected Ninth Street North resident John Arcadi’s refiling of a previously reject appeal of the front yard setback variance Special Master William Robinson Jr. granted last year to Gulf Drive Café owners Wendy and George Kokolis. The court’s rejection paves the way for the Kokolises to submit to the city commission

a request for a special exception allowance that is required in order to build a two-unit hotel in the zoning district that encompasses their Ninth Street North property. According to Kokolis’ attorney Patricia Petruff, the special exception request could be presented to commissioners as early as this month. Last year, Planning and Zoning Board newcomer John Metz, who has tentative plans to build a large retail and residential development on his Gulf Drive property, led the board in recommending denial of the requested special exception allowance. Based on his own interpre-

Public input will again be allowed when the special exception request is discussed by the commission.

tation of city code, longtime board member John Burns offered the sole support for the request, and commissioners will have to consider these differing advisory board member opinions when deciding whether to accept or reject their recommendation.

During the multiple public hearings that occurred during the planning board meetings that led to the recent recommendation, numerous residents joined Arcadi in expressing opposition to the proposed hotel. Citizen concerns included increased traffic and

noise, diminished property values and the possibility that the hotel would be used for storage and deliveries intended for the nearby café. When making his unsupported motion to recommend approval of the request, Burns noted that a traffic study indicated no substantial impact on the neighborhood, and no expert testimony was presented to support claims that surrounding property values would be negatively impacted. Public input will again be allowed when the special exception request is discussed by the commission.

JANUARY 7, 2015

ART briefs Free art demo Island Gallery West will host a free art demonstration, “Kids Art for GrownUps,” with Lee Mears on Saturday, Jan. 10, from 10:30 a.m. to noon, at 5368 Gulf Drive in Holmes Beach. Seating is first come, first served. For more information, visit www.islandgallerywest.com or call 941-778-6648.

‘Yin and Yang’ opens The Anna Maria Island Art League will host a free, public reception on Friday, Jan. 9, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. for “Yin and Yang, Positive and Negative, or 100 Shades of Gray,” an exhibit featuring works in black, white and gray. The Art League is at 5312 Holmes Boulevard in Holmes Beach. For more information, call 941-778-2099 or visit www.islandartleague.org.

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Windham portrait featured at Guild The Artists' Guild of Anna Maria Island is featuring the artwork of Manatee High School senior Hunter Windham, 17, the January student artist of the month. Windham, who created "A Night at the Museum" at the South Florida Museum where he is a docent, named his mixed media painting, “Lennon, Hendrix and Dylan.” It will be displayed all month at the gallery, 5414 Marina Drive in Holmes Beach. Hours are Monday through Friday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more information, call 941-7786694 or visit www.amiartistsguildgallery.com. From left, art teacher Jon Scott, January student artist of the month Hunter Windham and Artists' Guild Education Director Karen Ellsworth with Windham’s painting, “Lennon, Hendrix and Dylan.” SUBMITTED

Copyright workshop Artist Nancy McDermott will host a workshop, "How to Copyright Your Artwork," on Wednesday, Jan. 14, from 10 a.m. to noon, at CrossPointe Fellowship Church in Holmes Beach. The cost is $10 for members of the Artists’ Guild of Anna Maria Island and $25 for non-members. For more information, call 941-778-6694 or visit www.amiartistsguildgallery.com.

Art show opens The Artists' Guild of Anna Maria Island presents "Thru Artist's Eyes," an all-media juried art show, at The Studio at Gulf and Pine in Anna Maria, from Thursday, Jan. 8 through Tuesday, Jan. 27, with an opening reception on Friday, Jan. 16, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. For more information, call 941-201-5145, e-mail agami@gmail.com or visit www.amiartistsguildgallery.com

De Haan featured artist A free, public reception for watercolorist Ruth Eriks de Haan is scheduled for Friday, Jan. 9, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Artist's Guild Gallery, 5414 Marina Drive, during the Holmes Beach Art District’s de Haan ArtWalk. The exhibit will be featured all month. For more information, call 941-778-6694 or visit www.amiartistsguildgallery.com.

SUBMITTED

Fletcher exhibit opens

Marine life workshop

Island Galley West will open photographer Joe Fletcher’s exhibit, “Gulf Coast Nature Photography,” with a free, public reception on Friday, Jan. 9, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at 5368 Gulf Drive in Holmes Beach. Regular gallery hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday. For more information, visit www.islandgallerywest.com, facebook or call 941-778-6648.

Welsh artist John Allinson will teach a two-session workshop on painting a manatee and a turtle on Friday, Jan. 9, and Saturday, Jan. 10, from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Art League, 5312 Holmes Boulevard in Holmes Beach. Each class is $35. Register at 941-778-2099 or e-mail artleagueami@gmail.

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JANUARY 7, 2015

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Cook-off helps feed little tummies BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

Sponsored by the Bridge Street Merchants, in association with the Bridge Street Market that takes place weekly in Bradenton Beach, Sunday’s Mac & Cheese Cook-off raised $676 for Manatee County’s Feeding Empty Little Tummies (F.E.L.T) program. The program provides free and reduced-priced breakfasts and lunches for students during the school year, and food-filled F.E.L.T. backpacks that assist food challenged families during weekends and school vacations. The Blue Marlin Grill claimed first prize with its Stoney Mac and Cheese, made with, what else, stone crab. Owner Adam Ellis said the dish is a menu item when stone crabs are readily available, which is currently not the case. Jake Spooner, owner of Fish Hole miniature golf and the Bridge Street Bazaar, claimed second place with a recipe that featured Rotel diced tomatoes

MELISSA ENDERS | submitted

Blue Marlin Grill’s Josh Drawdy and Kelly Flynn were joined by Jake Spooner, Gordon Ahier and market manager Melissa Enders at the conclusion of Sunday’s Mac and Cheese Cook-off. Their Stoney Mac and Cheese was deemed the winner of last week’s merchant’s sponsored cook-off. and mild green chilies, cream of mushroom soup, condensed milk and extra sharp cheddar cheese. F.E.L.T representative Gordon Ahier garnered third place honors. Market Manager Melissa

Enders said the $676 raised would feed 17 children for one month. The winners were determined by ballots cast by those who paid $8 to sample the eight mac and cheese entries.

THE SUN

REAL ESTATE

JANUARY 7, 2015

Florida population on the move

e’re at the beginning of a new year, and what a year it’s setting up to be. Last week we talked about redefining what a million dollar property is. This week we’re going to talk about how the state of Florida is being redefined. When my parents retired to Florida in the early 1970s, the old adage “Florida is God’s waiting room” was alive and well. At that time, Florida retirees would have trouble convincing their children to visit; forget about relocating. Well it’s not your parents’ Florida anymore, and the U.S. Census Bureau is proving it. A few days before Christmas, the U.S. Census Bureau released statistics ranking the state of Florida as the third most populated state in the country behind California in first place and Texas in second. For the first time, Florida has overtaken the state of New York, just nudging it out of its third place status, an ironic twist since one in t10 new

Castles in the Sand Louise Bolger Florida residents relocate from New York. The report goes on to say that an average of 803 new residents arrived in the state every day during the previous year. Florida’s population is just under 19.9 million representing a 1.49 percent growth from July of 2013 to July of 2014. Florida’s growth is certainly due in part by demographics, with the enormous wave of baby boomers finally starting to retire after recovering financially in the wake of the financial crisis. Their primary homes are worth more, their stock portfolios are fatter and their hair is graying faster than they would

like. In addition, Florida has actively solicited business owners from other states prompted by Gov. Scott and The Florida Chamber of Commerce with some very positive results. As we already know, politically, Florida is already a state that can make or break a national election, making the Southeast a powerful region. Ultimately, this population growth could even change the number of congressional seats, making the state even more influential. But don’t think that the only people moving to Florida are retirees and Northern business owners; the influx of international buyers is growing annually. A recent report in the Wall Street Journal pointed out that Miami is actively marketing condos to Chinese buyers. China’s share of international buyers within the United States rose to 16 percent in 2014 an increase of 4 percent from the previous year, according to the National

Association of Realtors. And, of course, the Chinese are only one group of international buyers looking at Florida. South American residents have been coming to Florida for years, as well as other international buyers who have helped to turn Miami’s once lagging condo market into one that is now selling like hot cakes. With more people moving into the state, it’s inevitable that substantial growth will follow. Is it the weather that’s attracting people or the lack of income tax? I don’t know. What I do know is that in the 17 years I’ve lived in Florida, I never experienced a hurricane that came even close to the ones I lived through in the state of New York, so the hurricane threat is not scaring people away. Redefining Florida – no doubt about it. So sit back and enjoy the changes, especially the great new shopping and restaurants.

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JANUARY 7, 2015

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review: 2014 year in review FROM PAGE 16

Take the money and run

In January, Manatee County pledged $1 million to rebuild the Bradenton Beach City Pier, if the city kicked in the other $1 million. The job is nearly complete by December.

One never-ending story ends

After two years that included two hearings before a special master and a multitude of changes suggested by city commissioners, Mainsail Development’s site plan for its hotel/lodge/marina was approved in September. The project was originally initiated under another owner in 2000.

They say it’s your birthday

Wagner Realty: 75 years; West Coast Surf Shop: 50 years; Artists’ Guild: 25 years; Bridge Tender Inn: 25 years; Tingley Memorial Library: 20 years;

So you want to be a star

Bob Pitt: Florida Folk Heritage Award; Andrea Spring: Best in Show plus 1st and 2nd place ribbons at Manatee County Fair; Suzi Fox: DAR National Conservation Award; West Manatee Fire & Rescue Deputy Chief Brett: Florida Fire Chiefs’ Executive Fire Officer of the Year; Betty Yanger: AMI Historical Society Volunteer of the Year; Mike Walker: Holmes Beach Police Officer of Year; Duncan Real Estate: Manatee Chamber Small Business of Year; Historic Green Village: Manatee Chamber Green Business of Year; Holmes Beach City Attorney Patricia Petruff: William C. Grimes Award for Lifetime Achievement in Community Service; Holmes Beach City Clerk Stacey Johnston: Master Municipal Clerk; Izzi Gomez: Women’s

file photo

The popular Rod and Reel Pier in Anna Maria reopened in February after being rebuilt following a fire in the fall of 2013. Standup Paddle Surfing World Champion; Fran and George Barford: Anna Maria citizens of year; AMI Chamber: Businessperson of Year, Mary Ann Brockman; Small Business of the Year, Irenes’s Resort Wear; Medium Business of the Year, The Feast restaurant; and Large Business of the Year, AMI Resorts.

Up from the ashes

The Rod and Reel Pier reopened in February after being rebuilt following a fire in the fall of 2013.

Sue me/sue you

Holmes Beach’s tree house owners win a stay from a code enforcement board’s September 2013 order imposing a fine of $100 per day. However, a judge upholds the code board decision’s to order the structure’s

removal. The tree house owners appeal the judge’s ruling. We say, “It’s still up in the air.” Bidders protest the city’s selection of a contractor for the Bradenton Beach City Pier project in May. The city decides to redo the bidding process and awards the bid to its original contractor selection. Sour grapes anyone? Anna Maria city commissioners offered a settlement to derail a lawsuit over remodeling, but six more property owners jumped on the bandwagon asking to be excluded from LAR restrictions.

Hype it and they will come

Anna Maria was named the #3 island in the U.S. by Trip Advisor. The Island’s winter season was the best ever. The Island’s summer season set a record. Anna Maria was named the 26th best island in the world by Conde Nast Traveler’s Readers’ Awards. see review, page 30

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Complaints began surfacing about Bradenton Beach Mayor Bill Shearon and the tension mounted until the city commission began proceedings to remove him from office. Commissioners adopted a forfeiture resolution, and in return, Shearon sued the city. A citizen formed a recall committee and is gathering signatures to initiate a recall of Shearon from office. A coastal consultant hired by the city presented a plan for restoring Anna Mariaâ€™s Gulf Front Park, however, residents protested the proposal to remove Australian pines, which are considered invasive exotics by the state.

Holmes Beach Police Chief Bill Tokajer showed city commissioners one of the new pedestrian signs to be installed in the roadways. File photo

review: 2014 year in review Passing the torch

In September, West Manatee Fire Rescue commissioners selected Capt. Tom Sousa to replace retiring Fire Chief Andy Price. Anna Maria and Holmes Beach elected new mayors, both firsttime office holders.

Bad boys, bad boys

Police pursue a motorcyclist traveling up to 120 mph through two counties before he wiped out and was arrested in Anna Maria after being chased through a back yard. When caught, he asked why they were chasing him, giving credence to the term â€œdumb criminals.â€? A couple was arrested for having sex on the beach. A credit card skimmer was found on a gas pump in Bradenton Beach. A teenager stole a truck and went joy riding in Bradenton and on the Island, leaving 23 damaged vehicles in his wake before being caught by stop sticks on the Cortez Bridge, giving new meaning to the term â€œdemolition derby.â€? A man ran away from mental health treatment facility and streaked Bridge Street. Didnâ€™t that go out in the 60s? A Holmes Beach woman found an extension cord with five electrical outlets plugged into her home coming from a neighboring construction site. And can I get a cup of sugar, too?

Still missing

Sheriffâ€™s deputies search for the remains of Sabine Musil-Buehler, who disappeared in 2008, near Galati Maine in Anna Maria.

It seemed like a good idea at the time

Holmes Beach Mayor Carmel Monti Mayor proposed a gondola over Anna Maria Sound to transport people from a parking area on the Causeway to the public beach

parking lot and three story parking garage at the public beach. Holmes Beach police installed pedestrian signs in the roads creating consternation in some drivers who stopped at every sign and a speed cushion on Key Royale drive that generated a horn honking protest by residents. The Florida Highway Patrol initiated a seat belt and window tint check on the Causeway on Memorial Day weekend, one of the busiest holidays of the year, backing up traffic into Bradenton for hours. What were they thinking? Anna Maria city commissioners named the six lots they bought in 2011 the City Pier Park. However, some call it the No Trespassing Park because no one is allowed to use it. A Holmes Beach committee proposes eliminating street and right of way parking in all residential districts except for residents with Florida vehicle registrations who obtain permits. What about snowbirds?

Fishy business

The U.S. Supreme Court in November heard the case of John Yates convicted in federal court for disposing of three undersized fish that were to be seized as evidence. He served 30 days, but could have gotten 20 years. County Commissioner Carol Whitmore spearheaded a movement to ban multiple hooks on fishing lines. Holmes Beach approved a resolution in October. Thousands of dead mullet, a byproduct of the Christmas mullet roe catch, litter beaches and canals. If it were summer, weâ€™d have baked mullet.

Complaint department

A ban on sandwich signs in Anna Maria causes protest by businesses. City commissioners decide to allow businesses to apply for special exceptions if they can prove they need the sign.

Say it ainâ€™t so

The prestigious Food and Wine on Pine event was canceled due to bad weather. Holmes Beach city commissioners limited the use of the city field to two events per month with no music on Sundays, creating a problem for the AMI Art Leagueâ€™s Winterfest. Island Auto Repair tries to make comeback at a building on Ave C, but Holmes Beach city commissioners reject the plan due to lack of parking. The Anna Maria Island Concert Chorus and Orchestra announced that it will move its February and March concerts off the Island in 2015 due to traffic and congestion during high season. The AMI Privateers raised funds for a new sleigh lost in a legal dispute with a former member, and then their parade boat float, the Skullywag, was T-boned by a pickup truck days before their Christmas parade.

On the brink

In June, Island Community Center Director Dawn Stiles stunned the community when she announced that the organization did not have enough money to stay open another month. At a community meeting, people offered solutions. The Centerâ€™s board of directors implemented cost saving/revenue generating measures, and that along with donations brought it out of the crisis. However, the Center lost both its 21-year assistant director, Scott Dell, shortly after the crisis was announced and Stiles in October. Former board member Cindy Thompson was named interim director in November and director a few weeks later.

Medical mysteries

A new mosquito virus, Chikungunya or ChikV, came to Florida from the Caribbean. Symptoms include fever, headache, severe muscle pain and a rash that can last for months. Four local residents were sickened in the Bahamas by the rare ciguatera fish poisoning. Two teens were hit hardest, but recovered. The community raised $21,000 to help with medical expenses.

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November resort tax collections Manatee Countyâ€™s 5 percent resort tax, or tourist tax, is collected from owners of accommodations rented for six months or less who charge the tax to their renters, in most cases, tourists. The majority of the tax is allocated to Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau tourism marketing efforts, with one of the five pennies allocated to beach renourishment. Resort tax increases reflect both increased visitation and improved tax collection efforts. Monthly collection reports do not reflect the fact that some hoteliers pay quarterly, not monthly. Amounts shown are collected in November and paid to the Manatee County Tax Collectorâ€™s Office in December. To anonymously report a rental owner who may not be paying the tax, call 941-741-4809 or visit www.taxcollector.com/services_resort_tax_tips.asp. Source: Manatee County Tax Collector

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steve schewe | submitted

In 2011, Ed Straight responded to a call regarding a struggling cormorant that was captured, treated and released after making a full recovery.

straights: Persons of the year FROM PAGE 1

the wisdom of this labor intensive approach to retirement. In addition to serving as Wildlife Inc. president, Ed is serving his third and final term as a Bradenton Beach City Commissioner. Before retiring in 2001, he spent 29 years working for Manatee County Public Safety, starting out as an EMT and rising through the ranks to serve as Emergency Medical Services Earlier today, it chief, Emergency Management was like a three- chief, and chief of the county’s ring circus here. 911 center. He also spent 27 There’s no dull years as a reserve sheriff’s deputy. moments, and Before that, Ed worked as a that keeps us private detective, ambulance driver active.” and scuba diving treasure hunter. While serving Ed Straight as Wildlife Inc. Wildlife Inc. president

curator, Gail has also spent the past 25 years as a Florida Wildlife Rehab Association board member, including time served as association president. Wildlife Inc. works closely with Save Our Seabirds, in Sarasota, and Gail said the recent closing of the Suncoast Seabird Sanctuary in St. Petersburg has led to more bird rescues, including hawks, owls, songbirds and a high number of pelicans, some of whom struggle to find food when cold weather forces the fish they feed on into deeper water, while others get entangled in fishing line. “As much as we try to educate people to reel them in and unhook them, they still cut the lines and we end up with problems,” Gail said. Wildlife Inc. also has an educational component located at Mixon Fruit Farms in Bradenton that provides sanctuary for alligators, crocodiles, and more birds. These educational efforts also include appearances at public events and festivals, where Garfield the screech owl serves as a star attraction. These appearances, and the resulting T-shirt sales, help raise awareness of the organization efforts, and along with grants, assist with the fundraising efforts that help offset $60,000 in annual expenses. “We’ve survived for 28 years because we

do it here at home and cover the overhead, although, we still have to raise money for food and supplies,” Ed said. Wildlife Inc. receives donated food from local restaurants, the Red Barn Flea Market, Wal-Mart, and occasionally from Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission officers, who recently dropped off some confiscated mullet. Gail and Ed typically spend at least eight hours a day, often more, tending to Wildlife Inc. business and are assisted by volunteers, including their 15-year-old grandson, Devon Straight, who often accompanies his grandfather on rescue calls. Wildlife Inc. is not open for public tours, but donors, volunteers and invited guests are allowed inside the compound. “If you’re looking for a non-profit that’s tax deductible, you can always come here and see where the money’s going,” Ed said. A recent visit resulted in encounters with large African tortoises, rabbits, an injured Great Egret, a bobcat, a red-tailed hawk, a crested cara cara, three species of owls, a soon to be released white pelican, and various other creatures receiving care or permanent sanctuary. Some were struck by cars, resulting in broken legs and broken wings; some were poisoned; some were orphaned due to the loss of their parents; and some, Ed suspects, may have been abandoned by human owners. The animal infirmary located inside the home they bought in 1973 was occupied by a ring billed gull, baby raccoons and a baby squirrel being kept warm in a donated incubator. Greetings were provided by Taccaroo, the toothless African street dog that formerly belonged to the late Clay Wilson, the local vet who graciously donated his time to Wildlife Inc. Dr. Bill Bystrom and Dr. Ashley Gardner at the Island Animal Clinic now help provide those services. The Straights are allowed to operate a sanctuary in a residential neighborhood because the state regulates wildlife care, and a state issued license supersedes city and county zoning regulations. When asked why they do it, Ed said, “I’ve always been active and I never enjoyed just sitting on the beach. I’ve known quite a few

JANUARY 7, 2015

joe hendricks | sun

A recently injured great egret sits atop one of three rescued African tortoises that live at Wildlife Inc. people that spent their whole life working a job they didn’t like to get money for retirement, only to move down here and drop dead. I decided a long time ago that I’d do things that I find interesting. "Earlier today, it was like a three-ring circus here. There’s no dull moments, and that keeps us active. It can be stressful when we get 10 or more calls in a day, in addition to people who just arrive at our door, but that’s fine.” Gail said her reward comes from watching an injured animal, sometimes on the verge of death, make a full recovery and get released back into the wild. As for what the community can do to help, in addition to providing financial support, Gail said, “We need people who are qualified to do rescues. They have to use their own cars, and I wouldn’t send someone who doesn’t know how to handle a bird after a blue heron, but they can pick up a blue jay or a screech owl in a box. We can always use paper towels and we need a small boat motor for the Zodiac.” Additional wish list items can be found at www.wildlifeinc.org, and Wildlife Inc. can be contacted at 941-778-6324.

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JANUARY 7, 2015

THE SUN

Accolades abound for Wildlife Inc. The community comments on the impact the rescue and rehab facility has had on the Island and beyond. BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

BRADENTON BEACH – In addition to being named The Sun’s Persons of the Year, Ed and Gail Straight received accolades from those who interact with their Wildlife Inc. Education and Rehabilitation organization. David Pilston, CEO of Save Our Seabirds in Sarasota, said, “They have kindly shared supplies with us, and we’ve coordinated rescues with them because sometimes we get a call that’s closer to them than it is to us and vice versa. We’ve also had several of our employees volunteer there.” Some of the shared supplies include confiscated mullet Fish and Game officers recently delivered to Wildlife Inc. Having limited storage space, the Straights arranged for most of it to go to Save Our Seabirds. “We have the freezer space available and go through 18 tons of fish every year feeding our birds, so that was very helpful,” Pilston said. Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch & Shorebird Monitoring Director Suzi Fox

said, “Gail and Ed are gentle people who care deeply about the environment. We assist them with animal transports, rescues and the rehabilitation of birds. I’m also their neighbor, and as neighbors and friends, they are the best of the best.” Bradenton Beach Police Chief Sam Speciale said, “We call them when we have issues with pelicans, sea gulls, raccoons and other wildlife. We also find a lot of exotic animals out here that we don’t know what to do with. They provide a needed service because we don’t have the resources or training to deal with these animals. I also have a great relationship with Ed as a city commissioner. He listens to what we have to say and his experience with emergency management is valuable to the city.” Holmes Beach Police Chief Bill Tokajer said, “They do a great job for this community, and they’re people this community can be proud of.” Manatee County Commissioner and former Holmes Beach Mayor Carol Whitmore said, “I’ve known them since they started. They’re animal lovers that stepped up to fill the gap in caring for wildlife. When I was mayor, they were the only ones we could call, and I had an owl in my yard a couple years ago that I took to them.” Manatee County Animal Services Interim Director Bill Hutchison said, “We don’t have

They do a great job for this community, and they’re people this community can be proud of.” Bill Tokajer Holmes Beach police chief the expertise, skill, or equipment to deal with birds, particularly pelicans. We refer those to Ed and his organization, and they do a fine job.” Bradenton Beach Vice Mayor Jack Clarke said, “It has been my privilege to work with Ed on the commission. In this capacity, he continues a life-long career of public service. In addition, he and Gail have found the time and energy to develop Wildlife Inc. into a widely respected vehicle for the rehabilitation of sick and injured creatures. My personal congratulations to Ed and Gail.” Sandpiper resident Kathy Putnam and her husband Mike Broussard stumbled upon Wildlife Inc. one day while taking a

walk and later turned to the organization to help a baby bird. “When the black skimmers were nesting on the beach last summer, we were walking down to the dock to watch the sunrise. There was a black skimmer baby behind us that shouldn’t have been over here. I don’t know how the poor little thing got across the street; it was bloodied and had sandspurs under its little wings. We took it to Gail, who said a cat probably got a hold of it. She took out the spurs and told us how she was going to care for it. It’s incredible what they do, how committed they are and how they benefit the Island and the area,” Putnam said. Ed and Gail’s grandson, Devon Straight, has been helping his grandparents since he was two. When asked what he has gained from the experience, the teenager said, “Getting to interact with all the animals, knowing that I’m making a difference out in the wild and knowing that I’m giving these animals a second chance.” Wildlife Inc. volunteer Arlene Williams said, “I brought in a bird a number of years ago and I haven’t left them alone since. They’re amazing, and I’m inspired watching them. It’s time consuming work, but they’re very devoted, and it’s fulfilling to help rescue these animals.”

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TOWN CRIER Irish Ceili dancing taught The Anna Maria Irish Ceili Dancers have begun their winter dancing at the Sandpiper Mobile Resort, 2601 Gulf Drive N., Bradenton Beach, on Wednesdays from 1 to 3 p.m. and will continue every week through the end of March. Everyone is welcome to attend. For more information, call Judy at 779-1416 or Ellen at 778-1554.

Writer’s Club meets Julie Ann James, publisher/founder of the Peppertree Press will speak about the steps to getting published at the Gulf Coast Writer’s Club meeting at the Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, on Wednesday, Jan. 7, at 1:15 p.m. Everyone is welcome to come, even if you are not a club member. Call Sylvia Price at 7783209 or scprice@verizon.net.

Book club meets The Mana-Tweens Book Club meets at the Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, on Wednesday, Jan. 7, at 6 p.m. to discuss a book. For information on the group, call 778-6341.

Restaurant owner tells all Sean Murphy, owner of the Beach Bistro and Eat Here, will discuss his

BEACH BEAT Anna Maria

12/31, 9:51 p.m., death investigation, 200 block of Lakeview Drive. The death appeared to be from a medical condition. 12/31, 9:55 p.m., found item, 800 block of North Shore Drive. A dark backpack was found next to a picnic table.

Bradenton Beach

1/1, 1:47 a.m., battery. Drift In, 120 Bridge Street. As officers watched, the defendant hit the victim with his fist while they were arguing over the defendant’s girlfriend. The defendant was arrested.

Cortez

12/30, 5:12 p.m., trespass warning, 10200 block of Cortez Road West. The complainant wanted the subject off his property because of his drinking problem. The complainant had let the subject live on the property, but said his drinking was too much. 12/31, 7:45 a.m., domestic battery, 10100 block of Cortez Road West. The female,

career at the first Alice Taylor Reed Lecture and Travel Series event at the Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, on Thursday, Jan. 8, at 2 p.m. Admission is free, and seating is on a first-come, first-served basis. Call 778-6341 for more information.

Class for caregivers Sue Fox, a representative of the Sarasota Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association, will speak on “Alzheimer’s Caregiver Stress,” on Friday, Jan. 9, at 2 p.m. at the Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. The program is free. Call 778-6341 for more information.

Sierra Club discusses policy Manatee Conservation Committee of the Manatee-Sarasota Sierra Club meets on Monday, Jan. 12, from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m., at the Bradenton Central Library meeting room, 1301 Barcarrota Blvd., Bradenton. Join it and/or contact Sandra Ripberger at 941- 794-3878 or sandrarip@yahoo.com.

A new year for shopping Check out the Anna Maria Island Privateers’ Thieves’ Market on Saturday, Jan. 10, from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Coquina Beach parking lot for items you might not have gotten for Christmas The Privateers will be selling grilled hamburgers, hot dogs, sodas, buck-anear corn on the cob and baked goods. Big John will have his trailer there who lived with the defendant for nine months, said he came home after drinking all night and found out she had done the same and ruined the bed, She said he threw her around the room and mushed her face. Deputies arrested him.

Holmes Beach

12/22, 1:24 p.m., petit theft, Publix, 3900 East Bay Drive. The store’s manager said a man and woman were observed entering the store together with a cart. The man proceeded to shop and pay for his items while the female loaded up the cart and went outside without paying. She loaded the groceries into a white Volvo. Police recognized the male from a security video played for them but the female’s identity is not known. The officer filled out a capias report for the state attorney’s office to investigate. 12/23, 7:38 a.m., driving with a suspended license, 7700 block of Palm Drive. The officer ran a random computer check on the suspect’s car and found the owner, who was driving, had a suspended license. He was stopped and ticketed. 12/26, 2:45 p.m., driving with a suspended

JANUARY 7, 2015

selling smoked delights. There will be a produce stand too, weather permitting. Vendors are welcome. Log onto amiprivateers.org for information on renting a space. Manatee County does not allow dogs in Coquina Beach or the parking lot.

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

Read me a story Misty Wright, the children’s librarian, reads stories on Tuesday, Jan. 13, at 10 a.m. Kids between toddler and five years of age are welcome as are their parents at the Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. For more information, call the library at 778-6341.

Free memory screening Sue Fox, of the Sarasota Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association, will present “Memory Screening for Alzheimer’s” on Tuesday, Jan. 13, at 2 p.m. at the Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. This program is free, and seating will be available on a first- come, first-served basis. For more information, call 778-6341.

license, 5600 block of Marina Drive. The officer responded to an accident and one of the drivers had an Illinois li-

Obituaries Rudy Lee Rosa It is with deep sorrow that the family of local music artist Rudy Rosa announces his passing, on Oct. 25 2014. He will be greatly missed. Rudy’s music was a God-given talent, his love song to his wife, family and friends. Playing music was his life’s passion and will carry on for generations through his CDs and videos on YouTube. Rudy’s music is available at rudyrosa.net. He was a supportive and loving husband, a wonderful father and an incredibly hard worker. His accomplishments include restaurant owner, sea captain, pilot, motorcyclist, world traveler, homebuilder, electrician, salesman, keyboard teacher, accordionist and organist. He was a popular entertainer on Anna Maria Island in

Fashion fund-raiser at church The Women’s Guild of St. Bernard’s Catholic Church presents a Flags, Friends, and Fashion Show and Luncheon starting at noon on Thursday, Jan. 29, at St. Bernard’s Activity Center, 248 S. Harbor Drive, Holmes Beach. Tickets are $20 and only 200 tickets will be sold to this event. No tickets will be available at the door. For more information, call Connie Kihm at 410-812-2468 or e-mail c.kihm@ verizon.net.

Bingo at Center The Annie Silver Community Center, 103 23rd St. N., Bradenton Beach, hosts bingo starting Thursday, Jan. 15, from 7 to 9 p.m. and running every Thursday of the week through March 26. There will be cake and coffee for sale. Contact Linda Yarger at 778-3580 or LyargerL @aol.com for more information.

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

Play bridge at Annunciation Enjoy duplicate bridge every Tuesday at 12:30 p.m. at the Church of the Annunciation, 4408 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. For more information, call 8965154. cense that was revoked and no Florida license. She He was ticketed.

the past. He is survived by his wife, Sue Rosa; son, Lenny Rosa; two daughters, Melany Rosa and Rene Rosa; four granddaughters, Natasha Nixon, Miranda Correa, Tylar and Meagan Bruce; four grandsons, Zachary and Brandon Correa, and Morgan and Rudy Bruce; great granddaughter, Desire Rosa. He is also survived by his mother, Gladys Rosa; and nephew, Roy Rosa, of Johnstown, PAa.; brother and sister-in-law, Jim and Cindy Rosa of Tavares, Fla. He lived an amazing life full of adventure. Rudy’s last gift to this world was his body, which he donated to medical research to help find a cure for multiple myeloma, the cancer that ended his life. Rudy’s family invites you to his memorial service on Jan. 10, 2015, at 6 p.m. in the clubhouse at Pelican Pier Mobile Home Park 6207 18th St E., Ellenton, Fla. RSVP to Sue Rosa, 941812-3992.

JANUARY 7, 2015

FUN IN THE SUN

Across 1 Pod used to thicken gumbo 5 Moonshine containers 9 "24" superagent Jack 14 __-chef 15 Jacob's twin 16 Happen next 17 Military bed-making features 20 Rose pest 21 Pimply breakout 22 On the __: precisely 23 Civil rights activist Parks 26 Chancellor von Bismarck 28 Classic jazz vocal group originally composed of four siblings, with "The" 33 Financial claim 35 Sport __: versatile wheels 36 OB/GYN test

Answers to 12-31-14 Crossword Puzzle.

37 Goof 38 Comic strip with Snoopy 41 Md. neighbor 42 Pierre's "There it is!" 44 Bigheadedness 45 "Should __ acquaintance ..." 46 "Special" lobbying faction 50 Mideast strip 51 In the mail 52 Magazine fillers 55 Intravenous process 57 Ride without pedaling 61 UN organ ... or what the first words of 17-, 28- and 46-Across comprise? 65 San Antonio battle site 66 Cookie added to a McFlurry 67 Banned fruit spray 68 Make into confetti

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69 Enjoy a Kindle, e.g. 70 Printed goof Down 1 Fed. workplace monitor 2 Surgeon general under Reagan 3 Make haste 4 Pain-relieving pill 5 Jumbo __ 6 Stars and Stripes land: Abbr. 7 Black-tie party 8 Relief 9 Italian pistols 10 Cape NNW of Cod 11 Second-hand 12 Franc replacement 13 What's leftover, with "the" 18 Revered star 19 Not hoodwinked by 24 Revolve on an axis 25 Nick and Nora's dog 27 Electrical unit 28 Be worthy of 29 Poet Stephen Vincent __ 30 Turn out to be 31 Cambodian currency 32 Happy sign for a Realtor 33 Jeans maker Strauss 34 Crease remover 38 Send down using chutes, as supplies 39 Fleecy footwear brand 40 Injured, as a ligament

43 Table support 45 Quaint coin-op eatery 47 Poet Pound 48 Crew member 49 A single time

52 Lab gel 53 Pastrami purveyor 54 Lose it 56 Remove, as a peel 58 With skill

59 High-five, e.g. 60 Rookie 62 Outback bird 63 Mediterranean __ 64 Clump of turf

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ANNOUNCEMENTS FREE EVENT! MAKE A FULL TIME INCOME ONLINE. Our students earned over $10 Million with the exact step by step system you get FREE for attending. Seating is limited Register now! LiveIMevent.com/ sarasota 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

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

BOATS: PARTS & SERVICES & SALES BOATS ARE SELLING Very Well. Season is here-Busy-Busy-Busy. www.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

TIME FOR A SEASON BOAT CLEANING! Super Clean Wash or Full Detail. 941-228-3489

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

EDUCATIONAL SERVICES MATH COACH- Retired College Professor now has openings for basic math through pre-calculus. Call Myra 941-313-0528

JANUARY 7, 2015

WELDING CAREERS HANDS on training for career opportunities in aviation, automotive, manufacturing and more. Financial aid for qualified students. Job placement assistance. Call AIM 877206-7679

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

AVIATION GRADS WORK with JetBlue, Boeing, NASA and others- start here with hands on training for FAA certification. Financial aid if qualified. Call Aviation Institute of Maintenance 866-314-5838

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

EXPERIENCED NAIL PRO to take over established clientele at upscale LBK salon. Friendly, reliable, patient and gentle a must! Flexible schedule. Call 941-387-9807.

MEDICAL BILLING TRAINEES needed! Become a Medical Office Assistant! No experience needed! Online training can get you job ready! HS Diploma/ GED & PC/Internet needed! 888-528-5547

“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

AMI COMMUNITY CENTER Looking for front desk staff $9/hr., weekends with up to 20 additional weekly hrs. It’s a GREAT place to Work! Call Melissa at 941778-1908. Saturday 8:45 – 5pm Sunday 12- 4pm

FURNITURE

EMPLOYMENT IMMEDIATE OPENINGS FAMILY Owned Gift Shop on AMI. Part time. Evenings/weekends a must. Retirees welcome. Inquire at 727-244-5906

POSITIONS AVAILABLE. AREAS foremost culinary team hiring chefs, sous chefs and kitchen personnel. Top wages paid. Contact Beach Bistro at 941-778-6444. LINE COOKS NEEDED F/T - AMI Beach Cafe: Line Cooks Needed for Busy Beachside Restaurant. $9/ hr. Apply in Person Only at AMI Beach Café, Manatee County Beach. No Phone Calls HELP WANTED: EXPERIENCED computer, guest relations. Front desk help. part time afternoons & weekends. Call Cindy 941778-7800 KEY ROYALE CLUB, Inc. is hiring experienced Server/Wait staff. Must be able to work day and/or nights. Apply in person at 700 Key Royale Dr. Holmes Beach, FL between the hrs of 8 am - 11 am or 3 pm - 5 pm. No visible tattoos. No phone calls please. FLIGHT ATTENDANT CAREERS start here – Learn how to land a job in the friendly skies and prepare for training by the airlines. Five information packed days in Orlando. Call AIM 888-242-3630.

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

GARAGE, MOVING, RUMMAGE & YARD SALES SALE NEW YEAR”S NIKI’S Antique & Gift Shop. 5351 Gulf Dr, Holmes Beach. Sterling & Gold 10% to 60% off. Select vintage & costume jewelry, antiques, books, porcelain, miniatures, dolls, crystal & glassware 30% to 80% off. Artist designed scented candles, soaps & essential oils. Great furniture! Open 7 days 9:30-5. ROSER THRIFT SHOP Open 9:30am - 2 pm Tuesday, Thursday, Friday. 10 am -1 pm Saturday Annex open same days. Donations accepted Wednesday 9 am. – 11am 511 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Call 941-779-2733

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.

PAINTING INTERIOR/EXTERIOR. Clean professional service. Free Estimates. Call Wayne Lewin 941-7268414

HOME SERVICES 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

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LOST & FOUND LOST 5'10" JIMMY LEWIS fish surf board near 9th St, Bradenton Beach. blue & white w/ black & silver bag. Please call or text. 808469-5514 Reward. LOST SILVER-STONE Bracelet Friday or Saturday December 6 or 7 at Island Player Theater. Please call 941-794-7255 FOUND PRESCRITION GLASSES Ralph Lauren corner of Manatee and East Bay, Holmes Beach. Call 419-769-1610 LOST GOLD PINKY ring with amethyst stone vicinity of Cortez Kitchen and Swordfish Grill. Call 941778-8359 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!

PAINTING & WALLCOVERING PAINT! PAINT! AND MORE 28 years of experienced interior/exterior custom painting. Pressure cleaning, drywall repairs and texture finishes. Many Island references. Please call Neil for free estimates. 941-812-0507 “WIZARD OF WALLS” Established 1980 Prompt quality service. Paperhanging/removal Faux finishes. Interior painting. Mary Bell 941794-0455

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PAINTING & WALLCOVERING WALY PRECISION PAINTING custom painting, pressure washing, commercial/residential, interior/exterior, drywall/stucco, Licensed & insured. Call 941-448-1928 or 941-580-4005 www. WalyPrecisionPainting.com

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

PET SITTING/ HOUSE SITTING PET COMPANIONS - RESPONSIBLE and experienced local teens. $5 walk/$4 play/$8 wash Holmes Beach Call G & J 941-718-3368. 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. Anna Maria Island & West Bradenton. Certified pool operator. Residential/ commercial. Licensed & Insured. Call Dennis Clark 941-737-5657 COLE'S TROPICAL POOL SERVICE Call Cole Bowers for all your pool maintenance needs! Affordable and Dependable!! 941-7131893

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

Call us today! 941-778-3986

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

REAL ESTATE HOMES & CONDOS FOR SALE SPACIOUS 3BR/3BA Condominium rarely available in wonderful bay front complex with pool and tennis courts. Tastefully renovated to include newly tiled kitchen & family room with a peak of the bay and a split bedroom plan. Centrally located in Holmes Beach, with a short walk to shops. Ground-floor unit with covered parking and private storage. Family oriented and pet friendly. Offered at $450,000. Call Green Real Estate @ 941-7780455 FREE! What every REAL ESTATE BUYER or SELLER needs to know! Go to www.yourmar ketupdate.com for the latest market data. ELEVATED DUPLEX 2BR/1BA each side. Washer/dryer, dishwasher, tiled, 2 one car garages, covered patios. 2 blocks to beach, bay, pier, shops, cafes and bars. 204 2nd St N, Bradenton Beach $650,000. Call 941-741-1096 PERICO BAY CLUB VillaVery well maintained! $230,000. Runaway Bay – Light & Bright, Weekly rentals! $317,900. Call Kathleen today! 941773-0165 Island Real Estate MOBILE HOME FOR sale. 8 Church Ave. Bradenton Beach FL, on beautiful Anna Maria Island, steps from the bay and historic bridge street two blocks from the beach. The Pines Trailer park 55+ Call 419-566-1752

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

RENTALS: ANNUAL 1BR/1BA BASIC UTILITIES included. Triplex upstairs near Manatee High. Not pet friendly $700/ mo $700 security. DUNCAN REAL ESTATE 941-779-0304 www. teamduncan.com

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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. Looking for a bright energetic Property Management Team? Call Amberly and Tracy at A Paradise 941-778-4800 to maximize your rental income. WEST BRADENTON WARES CREEK area. Cute 2BR/1BA house. One car garage. Nice private backyard. $1100/mo First, Last & Security. Credit check required. Call 941-809-2488 HOLMES BEACH 1BR efficiency. Small but cute includes water & garbage $850/mo Available January 15. 1 year lease & credit check required. Call 941809-2488

ANNUAL RENTAL- HOLMES BEACH Spacious 1BR/1BA with views of beach. Elevated with large deck. $990/mo. Call Fran Maxon Real Estate for details 941-7782307. www.franmaxon realestate.com.

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

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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!

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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JANUARY 7, 2015

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

painting

transportation

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JANUARY 7, 2015