FREE
VOL 15 No. 48
September 30, 2015
Taking the Challenge
MIKE FIELD | SUN
Stephen Tavano, of Edward Jones Investments, dumps water on Val Filipski and then on himself during the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge last week in Holmes Beach. Participants hope to raise money to find a cure for ALS (Lou Gehrig’s Disease.) Last year’s global challenge raised $220 million for research into the deadly disease.
City expands compliance efforts The city is taking a new twopronged approach to dealing with noncompliant developers and contractors. BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
ANNA MARIA – The city is taking its disputes with contractor and developer Shawn Kaleta to Tallahassee and the state’s Department of Business and
INSIDE NEWS OPINION Sun survey football fever OUTDOORS real estate police reports town crier
4 6 7 16-17 20-21 28-32 33 34
Professional Regulation (DBPR) that licenses contractors. City officials have said at recent commission meetings that the documented accumulation of verified DBPR complaints could eventually result in Kaleta’s Beach to Bay contracting firm losing the ability to serve as a certified contractor in Florida. see compliance, page 36
Design committee forming for new bridge BY CINDY LANE SUN STAFF WRITER | clane@amisun.com
The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) is forming a committee to gather public input on amenities and decorative features for the new Manatee Avenue bridge. The design phase of the bridge is set to begin late this year, FDOT Project Manager Kati Sherrard said,
adding that features to be considered by the new Aesthetics Advisory Committee include sidewalks, trails, bus stops, bike lanes and landscaping. The FDOT has contacted officials in Anna Maria, Bradenton Beach, Holmes Beach, Manatee County and the Sarasota/Manatee Metropolitan Planning Organization to select members see bridge, page 36
cortez fishermen meet
Preview the Island PLAYERS UPCOMING ‘MURDERED TO DEATH.’ 34
to avert mullet dumping. 4
The Island Moose are ready to cut
Anna Maria Island, Florida
loose in their renovated lodge. 22
The Island’s award-winning weekly newspaper
www.amisun.com
2
THE SUN
www.amisun.com
SEPTEMBER 30, 2015
www.amisun.com
SEPTEMBER 30, 2015
THE SUN
3
New moratorium proposed City meetings this week will address a new moratorium proposal and the continued development of a new quality of life ordinance. BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
BRADENTON BEACH – City Commissioner Jan Vosburgh will present a new moratorium ordinance at this week’s City Commission meeting and she appears to have the support of at least one commissioner. Vosburgh has placed on the Thursday, Oct. 1 commission meeting agenda a new moratorium proposal that will be discussed and voted on during the meeting that gets underway at 6 p.m. The new proposal seeks a four-month moratorium on houses containing five or more bedrooms, and duplexes containing three or more bedrooms per side in Bradenton Beach’s R-1 or R-2 residential zoning districts. On Sept. 17, the commission voted 4-1 in opposition to a motion calling for further city attorney review and future commission adoption of a citizen-requested, eight-month moratorium on homes containing four
joe hendricks | sun
Last week, concerned citizens, planning board members and one city commissioner gathered at the Annie Silver Community Center to discuss building moratoriums and vacation rental issues. bedrooms or possible sleeping areas, which would have applied to the R-3 zoning district as well. “I feel very confident that the new, broader and more inclusive moratorium will pass. It is a good compromise and it should be more palatable,” Vosburgh said of her proposed moratorium.
Robertson offers support
Vosburgh’s plans to present the commis-
sion with a new moratorium ordinance was one of the primary topics of conversation at the moratorium/vacation rental-themed neighborhood meeting that took place last Thursday night at the Annie Silver Community Center. Seasonal resident, homeowner and moratorium supporter Betsy Sillars asked Robertson if she was going to support Vosburgh’s proposed moratorium ordinance. “Would you reconsider your vote?” she
asked Robertson. “I didn’t vote against a moratorium, I voted for the other one,” Robertson said. At the Sept. 17 commission meeting, Robertson was one of four commission members to vote against the four bedroom, eightmonth moratorium presented by planning and zoning board member Jim Lynch and supported solely by Vosburgh. When that motion failed, Robertson was one of four commission members to vote in favor of developing a new quality of life ordinance instead, with the understanding that the ordinance would include new vacation rental regulations. “That moratorium wasn’t going to pass anyway, no matter what I did. I never said I was against a moratorium. I’m right here with you now,” Robertson said. “If it’s put on the agenda again, what’s going to change?” Sillars asked. “You’ve got to talk to Ed Straight and John Shaughnessy and Mayor Clarke; that’s what has to change because I’m already with you guys with the moratorium,” Robertson said. “So you would vote for it?” Sillars asked. “Absolutely,” Robertson replied. “I think Janie’s point at that meeting was there were a few tweaks that needed to be see MORATORIUM, page 13
4
THE SUN
ISLAND NEWS
in brief
Anna Maria forum Wednesday night Hosted by the League of Women Voters of Manatee County, a city commission candidates’ forum will be held Wednesday, Sept. 30, at 6 p.m., inside Anna Maria City Hall. Incumbent Commissioners Carol Carter, Doug Copeland and Dale Woodland and challengers John Damato and Penny Naylor will spend an hour sharing their views on a variety of city issues, including vacations rental regulations and parking. The candidates have been invited to show up early and remain afterwards to speak one-onone with constituents and city voters.
Carleton trial postponed The Tampa trial of Michael Carleton, formerly of Coastline Accommodations, has been postponed from Monday, Oct. 5, to Monday, Nov. 2, due to a recent substitution of defense counsel, according to court records. A grand jury indicted Carleton on Sept. 1 on one count of federal mail fraud. He pled not guilty and was released on a $200,000 bond pending trial in the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Florida. Carleton is accused of double booking accommodations on Anna Maria Island and refusing to return $200,000 in deposits paid by more than 70 renters who found themselves without a place to stay upon their arrivals during 2012 and 2013.
Construction on Gulf Drive The Florida Department of Transportation is making improvements to State Road 789/Gulf Drive from State Road 684/Cortez Road West northbound to State Road 64/ Manatee Avenue West. Various locations will close from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., through Friday, Oct. 2 while Florida Power and Light crews tie existing power lines to new power poles. Improvements continue on State Road 789/Gulf Drive/ East Bay Drive from 27th Street to State Road 64/Manatee Avenue. These include modifying existing driveways to upgrade pedestrian curb ramps to meet ADA guidelines, adding new sidewalks and building new trolley shelters at Gulf Drive and 27th Street, among other improvements. The project also includes a 6-foot sidewalk on the east side of East Bay/Gulf Drive from 27th to 31st streets, an 8-foot sidewalk from 31st Street to Manatee Avenue, concrete driveways to replace shell driveways and drainage improvements. Motorists should expect daytime lane closures and flagging operations from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
New polling place When city voters head to the polls on Tuesday, Nov. 3, they will cast their votes at the Bradenton Beach Fire Hall, 201 2nd Street, instead of the Annie Silver Community Center. According to Assistant Supervisor of Elections Scott Farrington, the fire hall offers more parking and more open space inside. Voters also will be notified of the change when they receive their new voter ID cards in the mail.
Visit our website, www.amisun.com. Scan this code with your smartphone to go there.
SEPTEMBER 30, 2015
Fishermen meet to avert mullet dumping
Cortez fishermen are trying to work with fisheries officials to keep beaches and canals free of dead mullet. BY CINDY LANE SUN STAFF WRITER | clane@amisun.com
CORTEZ – Commercial fishermen met Saturday with state wildlife officials that they invited to Cortez to discuss ways to keep dead mullet from washing ashore during the annual fall roe roundup. Around December each year in the waters surrounding Anna Maria Island, commercial and recreational fishermen from all over the Southeast race to net female mullet that produce valuable red roe, or eggs, worth $1 to $1.50 a pound (as food, the fish sells for about 50 cents a pound). Males, which produce less valuable white roe, wind up in the nets too and are often tossed overboard dead or dying in favor of the pricey females. They wash up in canals on the bay side of the Island and on beaches on the Gulf side, creating eyesores and bad odors for residents and tourists and a mess for Manatee County workers to clean up. Commercial fishermen spearheaded the meeting, concerned that the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) might shut down the mullet fishery altogether if the problem happens again this year, putting them out of business at their most profitable time of the year, Fishing for Freedom President Mark Coarsey said. The group has long suggested that the state allow gill nets, made illegal in 1995, saying they would solve the problem because the smaller males can swim through the large mesh openings in the net and escape, while the fat females are caught by the gills. “Do you not think that you could bring back gill nets so we can continue to fish?” Capt. Kathe Fannon asked. “We never had to be
CINDY LANE | SUN
Nate Meschelle addresses Cortez fishermen while Mark Coarsey holds up a hoop net designed to help decrease mullet dumping. monitored. We never depleted our resource, and we always respected it.” That is unlikely to happen anytime soon, Coarsey said, adding that Fishing for Freedom will continue to support efforts to bring back gill nets.
Cortez gold
Mullet dumping, or culling, is “an ugly, greedy, disgusting practice that must be abolished,” said Nate Meschelle, of Fishing for Freedom, who gave a presentation on the issue Saturday. He blames the problem on greed for Cortez gold. “Now people see dollar signs. They throw the fish overboard and they know it’s wrong when they're doing it. They don't see the beautiful fishing industry. They’re raping and pillaging the natural resources we’re blessed with, and it’s not right,” he said. “Fishermen have to use better judgment by not culling fish, and by landing all harvested mullet. Be a leader and lead by example.” Meschelle requested an emergency ruling by FWC of zero tolerance on culling mullet from
Cedar Key south to Naples from Dec. 1 to Feb. 28, with the penalty for violation being a first degree misdemeanor. The action is not necessary because current law already addresses the problem, according to the FWC. State law requires immediately releasing unwanted fish at the site of capture, meaning 15 to 30 seconds, which gives the fish a chance for survival, Alan Peirce, of the FWC, told the standing-roomonly crowd at Fishermen’s Hall. But it takes more time than that to unload heavily-laden nets and separate the fish, fishermen objected. In addition, they said, the fish that have been caught by two or three boats during the roe roundups, when several boats chase one large school of fish, are unlikely to survive because they have lost their protective slime coats rubbing against the nets. Recreational fishermen have obtained licenses and worsened the problem, coming from all over the state for the roe, fishermen said, some claiming that they cause the see mullett, page 15
www.amisun.com
SEPTEMBER 30, 2015
THE SUN
5
Center personnel moves questioned BY PAT COPELAND SUN STAFF WRITER | pcopeland@amisun.com
ANNA MARIA –The termination of two of the Community Center’s most popular employees prompted criticism from parents and others, raising questions in its wake and leaving a community seeking answers. Matt Ray, adult sports manager, and Ray Gardner, youth sports manager, both terminated on Tuesday, Sept. 22, told the same story. They arrived at the Center, one at noon and one at 1 p.m., for a meeting with Executive Director Kristin Lessig and were ushered into the board room and told they were being fired by Lessig and Board Chair Bill Shuman. “I was blindsided,” Ray said. “I was never warned or written up. Kristin said they were going in another direction.” Gardner said, “Kristin said they had a vision for the Center and were re-evaluating positions, and my position was to be terminated. “I asked what the vision was, and she said to have one person over the sports program. Every other time they restructured, they gave employees an option.” Both said they were told they were banned from the Center for six months, given their belongings and escorted out the door.
“Being banned threw me way off. I can’t play sports, coach, volunteer or be in the murder mystery play,” Gardner pointed out. “Escorting me out was something a big corporation would do. It was poorly handled. We at least deserve an explanation.” “My kids are signed up for soccer,” Ray added. “I can’t watch them play or take them to practice. And I can’t be in the murder mystery play.”
Director and board chair respond
Board Chair Bill Shuman explained, “The board is moving in another direction. There are performance reasons for the terminations, but they were not provided to the two because of legal issues. They both understand there are reasons.” Regarding the six-month ban, Shuman said, “It’s good to have some separation. We are a public Center. We asked them to give consideration of their presence at the Center until things settle down.” “Matt and Ray are extremely well liked and appreciated by both the Center team and the community at large,” Lessig added. “Our changes are the result of necessary restructuring within the recreation programs we provide. “Our open door policy and focus on
The kids really loved them. My kids cried when they heard about it." David Greene Parent
different structure,” she continued. “Unfortunately, along the way, hard decisions have been required, resulting in the removal of some staff members. This has been an extremely difficult but necessary part of the process. “We have done our best to minimize the hardship with positive recommendations while being as generous with severance as we can be, given our current financial position. Of course, we cannot comment with specifics on any staffing changes and with regard to any particular individuals.”
Parents weigh in
executing our budget and plan to move the Center forward while best serving the community are at the forefront of mind in making any changes – as difficult as they may be.” She said the restructuring included being charged with conducting a thorough review of programs and positions in order to improve the offerings to the community and increase the viability of the Center. The process began in December 2014 and has continued over the past nine months. “It’s clear that different results require a
“From a perspective of how they treated and cared about the kids, they were really dedicated,” Jaynie Christenson said. “The kids loved them. Their heart was in the right place with the kids. They are good guys.” David Greene pointed out, “They had an amazing rapport with the kids. The kids respected them and listened to them. They touched all of our children in a way parents really appreciate. The kids really loved them. My kids cried when they heard about it.” “They were really great with the kids,” David Zaccagnino said. SEE CENTER, PAGE 29
Let’s make a difference in education! Support
The 2015 Horne & Moon Social
October 24, 2015 Gatsby's Hideaway | 555 6th Avenue W | Bradenton, FL 34205
Do not miss the Best Party of the year tickets are going quickly, so reserve yours today! Tickets: $175 per person For tickets and sponsorship opportunities, contact Lisa Arrigo Hoban by phone at 941. 725.1236 or by email at laevents@tampabay.rr.com.
Presenting Sponsor
Co-Sponsors
in partnership with the Manatee Community Foundation
6
THE SUN
OPINION
The Anna Maria Island Sun newspaper Island Sun Plaza, 9801 Gulf Drive P.O. Box 1189 Anna Maria, FL 34216-1189 Phone: (941) 778-3986 e-mail: news@amisun.com | ads@amisun.com | classifieds@amisun.com
Like us on our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/AnnaMariaIslandSun
SEPTEMBER 30, 2015
GUEST COLUMN BY WILLIAM L. TOKAJER
Holmes Beach chief of police
F
irst let me again apologize for not making the public aware of the change prior to posting the revised speed limits. Our intention is to make our cities roadways as safe as possible by making the changes that are in our control to protect our residents and visitors We are working to slow the pace of the traffic coming on to our Island as every roadway in Holmes Beach is a residential road. When the vehicles enter our city they come from the state road at speeds of 45 mph, going into a heavily congested boat ramp followed by a heavily congested beach area. Then you travel into an S-curve followed by multiple crosswalks, a school zone, another S-curve then into the City Center, all of which are very congested and shared roadways. We have reached out to FDOT requesting that they lower the speed limits on Manatee Avenue/ S.R. 64, as you cross the bridge assisting us in slowing down the pace of traffic entering our city. The speeds of the vehicles traveling on the road was just one factor that was considered. The key points that we took into consideration are: We share the road with, pedestrians who cross the roadways at marked crosswalks, unmarked intersections as well as on the dangerous curves that had cautionary 25 mph, not mandatory 25 mph speed limit. We share the road with bicycles that are using extremely narrow bike lanes, if any. We share the road with rented scooters with a top speed of 25 and renters that need no scooter experience and no requirements other than a driver’s license. We share the road with rented low speed vehicles (golf carts) with a top speed of 25. We share the road with the trolley, which is a rolling road block with pedestrians loading, off loading and crossing the roadways in front of the trolley that is blocking a driver’s vision We looked at the city rules and state law 316.189 - establishment of municipal and county speed zones. (1) MUNICIPAL SPEED.—The maximum speed within any municipality is 30 miles per hour. With respect to residence districts, a municipality may set a maximum speed limit of 20 or 25 miles per hour on local streets and highways after an investigation determines that such a limit is reasonable. Keep in mind that every roadway in Holmes Beach is a residential road When we review the roadways speeds, crosswalk placements and intersection safety we can’t SEE GUEST COLUMN, PAGE 7
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR AMI still wonderful
Anna Maria Island is a wonderful place to live. What a brief sentence to encompass so much gratitude. A recent medical scare and hospital stay has reminded me exactly how fortunate I am to live and work in paradise. Thank you to all my friends and neighbors on the Island for your kindness and help during this humbling experience. We have the best EMS and fire department, the Island children are safe and well educated and the residents have chosen this small Island to call home. We have seen tremendous change since I first found the Island in 1987 However, those attributes that stole my heart have not and will not change. The color of the water, the white sand, blooming royal poinsettia trees and the safety, kindness and pride of our small Island will endure. Thank you again for embracing me as a friend. Suzanne Thompson Holmes Beach
Lead by example “I live here.” I heard it from the woman who pushed her cart into the middle of the parking lot at Publix and left, and the family who left trash on the beach. I heard it from many people complaining about the Community Center, speed limit changes and local building politics I am over it. We need to stop using “I live here” as an excuse for bad
behavior, negativity and poor choices. So many have complained about how the Island is changing and how angry they are about it. Yes, the face of the island may be changing (try as we might to stop it), but the heart, soul and character of this island should not be. How long will it take to realize that we, the residents, are responsible for the sense of community and support for one another? This is something that no developer, attorney or tourist can take away from us. Let’s all focus on what we can do to strengthen our community and our commitment to it. Let’s volunteer, provide mentorship and leadership and get involved. Every tourist could be a potential resident. If we choose to treat them with the kindness and support that are the roots of this community, we can grow a community of like-minded residents. I would like to work alongside others to make this community better. Let’s fill the town hall at the community center and use our talents. Let’s fill the meeting space at St. Bernard's for the Anna Maria Welcome Home meeting. Let’s fill every volunteer committee in this community. Please remember that “I live here” is not an excuse. “I live here” means that you have a responsibility and a connection to this community. Take that seriously and lead by example. Kelly Smith Anna Maria
Lower speed limit makes sense
As a year-round resident of Holmes Beach, I welcome the new, lower speed limit set on Marina Drive between Manatee Beach and the Island Branch Library. I would like to see the speed limit lowered to 25 all the way along Marina Drive north to the city of Anna Maria, as well. Presently, the traffic on Marina Drive/Palm Avenue moves at 35 mph between the fire station and the south border of Anna Maria city, a distance of about 1.5 miles. The 35 mph traffic is loud enough to be heard at the dog park behind the fire station and for some distance around, disturbing residents day and night. When visitors are here in the winter months, there are pedestrians, cyclists, and skateboarders using the road, many of them children or people who are not familiar with the area. A lower speed limit, consistent along Marina Drive all through Holmes Beach, makes sense to protect them and accommodate residents. Some people are objecting to lowering the speed limit from 35 to 25 on the grounds that it could inconvenience drivers. But the difference in time between driving 1.5 miles at 35 mph and doing the same distance at 25 mph is about 60 seconds. I for one would gladly trade a minute of my time for increased quiet, better gas mileage, and greater safety. Gillian Kendall Holmes Beach
www.amisun.com
SEPTEMBER 30, 2015
THE SUN
the sun survey
mark your calendar
LAST WEEK’S QUESTION: Do you favor allowing on-street parking on the street where you live?
Note: Events are free unless indicated.
77%
On-street parking on residential streets should be for residents only.
9%
Yes. Everyone should be allowed to park on the street.
Wednesday Beach yoga, Manatee Public Beach, 4000 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, 6 to 7 p.m. Bring a mat.
Origami class, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m. Lego Club, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2 p.m.
Monday
Monday
Social bridge games, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, noon.
Social bridge games, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, noon.
Tuesday
Tuesday
Duplicate bridge, Church of the Annunciation, 4408 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, 12:30 p.m.
Preschool 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. Estate planning with attorney Sherry Wood, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2 p.m.
Sept. 30
Oct. 6
Wednesday
14%
Oct. 7
THIS WEEK’S SURVEY
AMI Community Connections fellowship, AMI Community Center, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria, 2 p.m.
What do you think of FDOT's decision to build a tall, fixedspan bridge from AMI to the mainland?
• Great idea. Long overdue. Let's get it built. • Bad idea. Will destroy AMI's ambience and be a safety hazard during high winds. • I didn't know they had decided on the big bridge.
To vote, go to www.amisun.com or scan this code to vote by smartphone. LIKE us on our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/AnnaMariaIslandSun View The Sun’s online edition at www.issuu.com/AnnaMariaIslandSun
GUEST COLUMN FROM PAGE 6
say that because there has not been a serious injury crash or a fatality crash that we are not going to take the proper corrective action until we do. We had dodged the bullet so far and we see this as a true concern for safety of our residents and visitors alike. To say that this change was to generate income from speeding tickets could not be further from the truth. The following are the totals for tickets issued city wide from January 2015 to September 2015. Tickets issued for
speeding - 31; school zone speeding - 5; seatbelt - 216.; suspended licence, insurance or registration - 237. Total: 683. With the complaints that have been received it is obvious that people did not realize the speed limit in the City Center was already 25 mph. But let’s look at the big picture here. In reality, if you look at the section of roadway, we actually had 25 mph cautionary speed limits on both S-curves and we also had 25 mph in City Center from Gulf Drive to the library. So the change we made was, in essence, from 43rd Street to 52nd Street, .4 miles
The speed of travel difference for the entire distance of .7 miles from Manatee Avenue to Gulf and Marina is a 28 second difference between 25 and 35 mph with no traffic. Twenty-eight seconds time for the added safety of our residents and visitors is a minimal impact on travel time. My intent is and always will be geared toward the safety of our entire community for the residents and visitors. Thanks for the opportunity to explain our efforts.
Saturday Oct. 10
Oct. 5
No. All on-street parking should be eliminated.
7
Thursday Oct. 8
Program on snakes by Lisa Hickey, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2 p.m.
Friday Oct. 9
Forty Carrots program for babies and children to age 5, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m. Alzheimer’s caregivers’ group, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2 p.m.
Oct. 12
Oct. 13
Wednesday Oct. 14
SHINE (Serving Health and Insurance Needs of Elders), Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 1 p.m. AMI Community Connections fellowship, AMI Community Center, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria, 2 p.m. Paranormal Society of Bradenton, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 6 p.m.
on the agenda Anna Maria
Holmes Beach
9/30: Candidates’ forum, 6 p.m. 10/8: City Commission work session/meeting, 6 p.m. For information, call 708-6130.
10/7: Parks and Beautification Advisory, Board, CANCELED For information, call 708-5800.
10005 Gulf Drive
Bradenton Beach 107 Gulf Drive N.
None posted For information, call 778-1005.
5801 Marina Drive
Island-wide
10/5: Community Center town hall meeting, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria, 6 p.m.
8
THE SUN
www.amisun.com
SEPTEMBER 30, 2015
maggie field | SUN
pat copeland | SUN
Coming together for Connie The community came out Sunday afternoon to celebrate the life of Connie Ferguson Pritchard, 58, who passed away Aug. 29 after battling multiple system atrophy. Clockwise from above, friends view photos of Connie’s life and sign the memorial book, Connie’s husband, Scott, with a photo of Connie. Koko Ray and Karma were one of the many groups that played. Food was provided by Sign of the Mermaid, Sandbar, Mr. Bones, Vinny and Cheryl’s Italian Kitchen, Swordfish Grill, Cortez Clam Factory, Aces Lounge and O’Shucks Raw Bar and Grill.
Maggie Field | SUN
SEPTEMBER 30, 2015
www.amisun.com
THE SUN
9
CINDY LANE | SUN
Get ready for stone crabs Sheila Meschelle stacks stone crab traps in Cortez in preparation for the season, which begins Oct. 15. Buoys will begin popping up all over Gulf and bay waters as crabbers begin setting their traps this week.
AM I O UTFITTERS Coastal Gear & Apparel YOUR PROFESSIONAL OUTDOOR STORE PADDLEBOARDS & KAYAKS FLY-FISHING INSTRUCTION TECHNICAL CLOTHING
Owner Steve Traves Outdoor Pro
7 days 9 to 6 505 Pine Ave. Anna Maria amioutfitters.com 941-254-4996
10
www.amisun.com
THE SUN
SEPTEMBER 30, 2015
Meeting raises Sunshine concerns City attorney Ricinda Perry has advised that commissioners and board members avoid attending non-noticed meetings that could put them at risk. BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
BRADENTON BEACH – It appears as though a Sunshine violation may have occurred at last week’s neighborhood meeting discussion on building moratoriums and vacation rentals. Planning and Zoning Board members John Metz and Jim Lynch were among the 20 or so Bradenton Beach residents who participated in the informal, 90-minute meeting that took place Thursday, Sept. 24, at the Annie Silver Community Center. The meeting was not organized by the city. According to the Florida Office of the Attorney General Website, “The Sunshine Law applies to all discussions or deliberations as well as the formal action taken by a board or commission. The law, in essence, is applicable to any gathering, whether formal or casual, of two or more members of the same board or commission to discuss some matter on which foreseeable action will be taken by the public board or commission.” On Sept. 17, the City Commission directed staff to begin developing a quality
of life ordinance that would include new vacation rental regulations. The motion presented noted that planning board review might be required if the new regulations address the city’s land Metz development code. On Thursday night, Metz and Lynch both spoke at a meeting that included discussion on the quality of life ordinance they may be asked to review. The discussion also included comments from Commissioner Janie Robertson and former Mayor Bill Shearon Lynch about Sunshine Law compliance for committees, but no one questioned the presence of two planning board members.
place. As the city attorney, I find this type of meeting conducted on 9/24 as unadvisable,” her e-mail said. On Thursday, Sanclemente learned that Commissioners Ed Straight and Jan Vosburgh had been invited to attend the meeting. Because the attendance of elected or appointed officials had not been publically noticed, she contacted Straight and Vosburgh and recommended they not attend. Had more than one commissioner participated in the meeting, additional Sunshine violations would have occurred. “It would be in all commissioners’ and board members’ best interest to carefully consider potential Sunshine issues should they wish to attend meetings of this nature,” Perry’s e-mail concluded. When asked if the planning board members’ participation was a Sunshine violation, Perry said, “It appears so.” Lynch said he was not aware that the recent commission actions regarding the quality of life ordinance impacted his ability to participate in the meeting. As one of the first to arrive, his presence did not constitute a Sunshine violation until Metz arrived and both board members remained once the meeting started. Vosburgh blames herself for putting Lynch in this position. “I asked Jim Lynch to attend the meeting, not knowing that John Metz had been invited.” she said. Metz did not respond to inquiries seek-
City attorney concerned
On Friday, City Attorney Ricinda Perry expressed her concerns in an e-mail sent to City Clerk Terri Sanclemente. “When more than one board member or more than one elected official converse on a matter that is foreseeably coming before them there are potential Sunshine violations,” she wrote. “The most prudent thing for a board member or elected official is to only attend meetings that are located on city property, that have been properly noticed and where minutes of the meeting take
Sunday Jazz Brunch Food Music Waterfront Views Now Sundays couldn’t be better. Enjoy the best in waterfront dining combined with the sophisticated and inspiring sounds of the area’s top musicians. Our Brunch features locally sourced farm to fork produce and gulf to table seafood. Start with a refreshing Mimosa made with Lola Sapere Aude Rose. Enjoy a Brunch classic or one of the unique items that makes our Brunch the Best on the Beach.
Sunday 10 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Anna Maria, FL 941.778.0444
IslandDining.com
ing his comments.
Second opinion
On behalf of the Citizens for Sunshine organization, Sarasota attorney Andrea Mogensen is currently in involved in a Sunshine lawsuit regarding two Sarasota city commissioners who attended a luncheon discussion on homelessness at a time when their commission was dealing with homeless issues. Because more than one commissioner attended a luncheon that was not publically noticed, the city was subjected to $17,000 in initial legal fees. One commissioner reached a personal settlement that required a $500 donation to a charitable organization and additional Sunshine training. The other commissioner continues to dispute the Sunshine allegations, which has resulted in more than $85,000 in additional legal fees. When asked about the events that transpired Thursday night, Mogensen said, “Without question, when two members of a board discuss a matter that will foreseeably come before that board, it is a Sunshine Law violation. The issue, as I understand the facts, was that two planning board members were there and it’s foreseeable that a land use issue will come before the planning board.” Mogensen said Citizens for Sunshine would review the incident and future legal action is possible.
SEPTEMBER 30, 2015
www.amisun.com
THE SUN
11
12
www.amisun.com
THE SUN
SEPTEMBER 30, 2015
dee brady | submitted joe hendricks | sun
Island Time checks in Southern Manatee Fire Rescue Battalion Chief Herb Smith accepts a $5,000 check from Island Time owner Bill Herlihy, joined by staff members Paula Riley, Kit Bradman, Christina Merenda and Erich Fleishman. The money was raised at Island Time’s Never Forget 9/11 event. After receiving a plaque of appreciation, Herlihy said, “It’s wonderful how the community, Bridge Street businesses, sponsors and my partners Keith and John pulled together for this.”
Super moon shines Left: Part-time Bradenton Beach resident Betsy Sillars shared this super moon photo her son, Brad, took Sunday night while viewing the lunar eclipse in Chicago. Above, a few lunar faithful wait on the Anna Maria City Pier hoping for a break in the cloud cover. Brad Sillars | submitted
www.amisun.com
SEPTEMBER 30, 2015
THE SUN
13
Drainage work – it’s not pretty but it’s needed The next project will be a series of streets in Holmes Beach from the end of October to the end of December.
Holmes Beach drainage improvement schedule
BY PAT COPELAND SUN STAFF WRITER | pcopeland@amisun.com
HOLMES BEACH – Drainage – it’s not the sexiest subject, but it’s one dear to the hearts of most Island residents – especially after a drenching thunderstorm that leaves streets and yards flooded. The three Island cities are taking a unified approach to the problem, led by tri-city engineer Lynn Burnett of LTA Engineers, which is overseeing the installation of stormwater filtration/percolation trenches along city rights of way. The cooperative effort is rare for the three Island cities, and Mayor Bob Johnson said it affords an opportunity to take advantage of efficiencies. Burnett added that all three cities approved a time and materials contract with Woodruff and Sons, which is doing the construction work, at a reduced rate. Right now the focus is in Holmes Beach, where trenches recently were installed on 85th Street, startling residents, who were not notified. Now that is changing and residents are being notified of coming projects and given the opportunity to ask questions and air concerns. So what’s this new drainage system all about? “This is a different approach to an old
Lynn Burnett | SUbmitted
An infiltration trench is filled with aggregate and a layer of filter fabric is placed on top. The filter fabric will be topped with white stone. problem,” Johnson explained. “We’re helping Mother Nature. We used to move the water from place to place; now we’re letting it naturally go where it’s supposed to go.” “We’re taking drainage in a completely different direction and trying to fix it in a modern way with the percolation system,” added Burnett. “We want to clean the water and get rid of it.”
Percolation system
Burnett explained that with the percolation system, workers dig down until they reach clean white sand. Filter fabric is used to line the sides of the trench, which is filled with large, clean aggregate, in this case recycled concrete, to within 6 inches of the top. Next a layer of filter fabric is added and topped with white stone, so stable you can park on it. The first systems were installed in 2011 and include South Bay Boulevard,
North Shore Drive and Coconut, Spring and Magnolia avenues in Anna Maria; Sixth Avenue, 42nd, 52nd and 85th streets, the S curve at the public beach and Avenues B and C in Holmes Beach; and Fifth Street South, the alley between Avenues A and B and Avenue C north of 26th Street in Bradenton Beach. The next project will be a series of streets in Holmes Beach from the end of October to the end of December. Burnett will hold neighborhood meetings on a street-by-street basis (see box). In the spring of 2016, work will be done in the areas of the elementary school and city field in Holmes Beach, Bay Drive North from Ninth to 12th streets from the Gulf to the bay in Bradenton Beach and streets at the entrance of the city of Anna Maria including Beach, Park and Maple avenues, Archer Way and Periwinkle Plaza.
The improvements in Holmes Beach will be installed along the following streets from the end of October to the end of December: • Marina Drive from 85th to Palm Drive; • 500 block of 77th Street; • 500 block of 75th Street; • 500 block of 74th Street; • 500 block of 72nd Street; • 500 block of 71st Street; • 500 block of 70th Street; • 500 block of 69th Street; • 500 block of 68th Street; • 500 block of 67th Street. City Engineer Lynn Burnett will be conducting neighborhood meetings on a street-by-street basis as follows: • 77th Street: Oct. 6, 3 to 3:45 p.m.; • 75th Street, Oct. 6, 3:50 to 4:35 p.m.; • 74th Street: Oct. 13, 3 to 3:45 p.m.; • 72nd Street: Oct. 13, 3:50 to 4:35 p.m.; • 71st Street: Oct. 20, 3 to 3:30 p.m.; • 70th Street: Oct. 20, 3:45 to 4:15 p.m.; • 69th Street: Oct. 20, 4:20 to 5:05 p.m.; • 68th Street: Oct. 27, 3 to 3:45 p.m.; • 67th Street: Oct. 27, 3:50 to 4:35 p.m. Each meeting will commence at the street intersection with Marina Drive at the time listed above. Opportunity will be provided at that time to discuss any concerns that residents may have. If you are unable to attend the meeting and wish to discuss the project details, contact Burnett at 941-526-3375.
MORATORIUM: New moratorium proposed FROM PAGE 3
made in what was presented, " said JoAnn Meilner, who opposed the four-bedroom moratorium. The enactment of a temporary building moratorium would require the support of at least three commission members. During recent meetings, Straight and Shaughnessy have expressed both support and opposition
to a moratorium, and they both voted against the moratorium proposed on Sept. 17. Clarke said last week that his focus remains on the development of the quality of life regulations, and he does not envision himself voting in support of a moratorium. Last week’s neighborhood meeting was organized by moratorium proponents Joanne Keir and Priscilla VonAhnen.
“Besides the importance of the topics we discussed, we hoped this meeting could begin to build more open communication among residents as well as with our commissioners. It became evident that many people who are directly affected by this weekly rental situation have strong feelings and need to be heard,” Keir said later in the week.” Mayor Jack Clarke did not attend the
neighborhood meeting, but he did comment on one of its participants. “It’s not surprising to see Mr. Shearon involved in this because his livelihood depends in part on short term vacation rentals. It’s a supply and demand issue. If there are fewer available units, the person providing them can charge more and expect a higher occupancy rate,” he said.
14
www.amisun.com
THE SUN
Celebrate grand re-opening at Center A town hall meeting is set for Monday, Oct. 5, to share a new logo and new mission values. BY PAT COPELAND SUN STAFF WRITER | pcopeland@amisun.com
ANNA MARIA – The community is invited to a grand re-opening at the AMI Community Center, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria, on Monday, Oct. 5. At 6 p.m., there will be a ribbon cutting by the AMI Chamber of Commerce followed by tours of the building to see the remodeled kids’ and soiree rooms, the Center CafĂŠ, the art room and the fitness space and room. At 7 p.m., there will be a presentation. “We will unveil our new logo and brand, new membership structure and fees, share our new mission values and introduce our six new team members,â€? Executive Director Kristin Lessing said. “It will be a time for everybody to have input and share their thoughts since the July town hall meeting.â€? Lessig said people also could learn about the new after school program called Beyond the Class room in which each day has a special theme and activities. There are Movement Mondays in which Pete Paciorek leads movement activities, Technique Tuesdays in
0 ) 6$7 681 &/26('
7+ 67 &7 : &257(= )/ 7+ 67 &7 : &257(= )/
 � ��� � � �   € � �
‚ ‚ Â
It will be a time for everybody to have input and share their thoughts since the July town hall meeting.� Kristin Lessing Executive director which artist John Allinson teaches art techniques, Whimsical Wednesdays in which a teacher leads Latin dance and Fantastic Fridays in which a variety of activities are offered. They are still seeking a group or person to lead Theatrical Thursdays. In addition, retired teachers Nancy Deal and Karen Clarke tutor kids in reading. She said the mural project, which has been in the planning stage for several months, would begin in October. Kids guided by Allinson will paint the outside wall by the playground equipment.
SEPTEMBER 30, 2015
www.amisun.com
SEPTEMBER 30, 2015
EVERYONE IS WELCOME
THE SUN
15
SUN FILE PHOTO
A mullet roe roundup in Palma Sola Bay.
Adult Bible Study 8:45 AM
SUNDAY WORSHIP 10:00 AM
Children & Youth Church School after the Children’s Message NURSERY AVAILABLE A NON DENOMINATIONAL CHRISTIAN COMMUNITY
MULLET: Fishermen meet to avert mullet dumping
Rev. Dr. Bob O’Keef
t XXX 3PTFS$IVSDI DPN t XXX GBDFCPPL DPN 3PTFS$IVSDI
FROM PAGE 4
majority of the dumping. The FWC will be mailing out a one-page summary of fishery regulations to all licensed fishermen in an effort to curb the problem this fall, said Tom Graef, FWC’s regional director for the Southwest region. “We’re going to stay in touch with you, calling back and forth, adding to our enforcement,� he said, adding that FWC officers also will talk to fishermen at boat ramps, where fish were dumped in past years. The FWC also is adjusting its methods of patrolling the waterways to try and be in the area when fishermen are following a school of mullet, so officers can address those who are holding the fish too long, he said. Violators are easy to find outside Longboat Pass, said Mark Taylor, a former commercial fisherman and president of Organized Fishermen of Florida, who now cleans the beaches, including dead mullet, for Manatee County. “These boys are asking for enforcement and cooperation,� he said, adding, “There's a fine line between enforcement and harassment.� The problem can be approached from another angle, said John Banyas, owner of Cortez Bait and
Now people see dollar signs. They throw the fish overboard, and they know it’s wrong when they're doing it. They don't see the beautiful fishing industry." Nate Meschelle Fishing For Freedom Seafood – if the two fish houses in the village are stuffed to the gills with mullet, they can refuse to accept any more fish. “We can say, ‘Nobody’s buying, so stop fishing.’ If it’s a poor year, we’ll need the fish, but if it’s a banner year, we can do that.� Fannon urged fishermen to work with the fish houses. “We’re here to support and protect Cortez Bait and Seafood and A.P. Bell Fish Co. That’s what we have left. We are the last working fishing village in the state of Florida. If these two go, we’re a tourist trap,� she said.
16
THE SUN
www.amisun.com
SEPTEMBER 30, 2015
SEPTEMBER 30, 2015
www.amisun.com
THE SUN
17
18
www.amisun.com
THE SUN
Town hall meeting scheduled Citizens will have the opportunity to suggest new regulations. BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
BRADENTON BEACH – As part of the ongoing efforts to develop a commission-supported quality of life ordinance, Mayor Jack Clarke has scheduled a town hall meeting to take place Wednesday, Sept. 30, from 9 to 11 a.m., at Bradenton Beach City Hall. The attendance of all city commissioners and all city department heads was requested for this meeting. Clarke said he plans to provide the public with his first update on the work that has taken place since the commission majority recently voted to begin work on an ordinance that will include new vacation rental regulations. He said public input is encouraged. Last week, Clarke, City Planner Alan Garrett, Building Official Steve Gilbert, City Attorney Ricinda Perry, Police Chief Sam Speciale and the other department heads gathered and began work on a quality of life ordinance now being drafted by Garrett and Perry. The commission imposed a Nov. 17 deadline for this work to be done, and Clarke said he hopes to have it finished
sooner.
Citizen input
During the Sept. 17 commission meeting and the Sept. 24 citizen-initiated neighborhood meeting, several residents expressed continued disappointment that a moratorium has not been enacted while these new regulations are being developed. Concerns also have been raised as to whether the commission and staff can meet the Nov. 17 deadline. During a neighborhood meeting that took place last week, JoAnn Meilner suggested that those who attend this week’s meetings present specific requests and suggestions regarding new vacation rental regulations, rather than simply calling for a moratorium that in itself will not provide long-term solutions to noise, parking and other concerns. Realtor Lynn Zemmer reiterated the desire that she and others in the vacation rental industry share in regard to working with the city and its residents, but she said there needs to be clear cut guidelines to work with.
Enforcement concerns
During the neighborhood meeting, Meilner suggested citizens “storm city hall” and demand additional enforcement from Police Chief Sam Speciale, who also oversees the code enforcement
department. Tjet Martin noted that the city’s primary code enforcement officer has been on medical leave for the past six weeks. She also suggested that someone from the police department carry a cell phone after hours in order to alleviate the need for calls to be rerouted through the Sheriff’s Office. “There are certain groups in the city that feel the need to bully officials or departments heads, instead of coming to us personally to get these issues addressed,” Speciale responded. “In other jurisdictions, the citizens work with their city officials instead of against them.” When asked what residents can do to assist the police department in addressing parking and noise concerns, Speciale said, “Call the non-emergency number at 941-778-6311. After hours the call will be forwarded to the Sheriff’s Office, so tell the dispatcher you are requesting a response from a Bradenton Beach officer.” In regard to code enforcement, Speciale said, “Our code enforcement officer is on paid medical leave, and every complaint is being dealt with as best we can.” In response to Martin’s cell phone suggestion, Speciale said this would not work because the calls would not be recorded and documented as they are by county dispatchers.
www.GagneConstruction.com
Distinctive Homes for Coastal Lifestyles CBC060236
SEPTEMBER 30, 2015
Budget finalized During last Wednesday’s second and final budget hearing, Anna Maria Mayor Dan Murphy and the city commissioners finalized Murphy’s first budget as mayor. Maintaining last year’s 2.05 millage rate, the $4.31 million 2015-16 budget includes more than $500,000 for code enforcement, much of which will be directed toward vacation rentals when the new vacation rental ordinance takes effect in January, barring a court ruling that says otherwise. Last year’s proposed budget was $3.79 million. Before the hearing, City Commissioner Doug Copeland said, “This is the smoothest budget we’ve ever had. The mayor answered most of the questions we had before our public meetings, and that made all the difference in the world.” During the brief hearing that followed, several commissioners expressed similar views.
Guild opens season The Artists’ Guild of Anna Maria Island will hold its first meeting of the season on Monday, Oct. 5, at 6:30 p.m. at the gallery, 5414 Marina Drive in Holmes Beach. Members will show and tell what they did during the summer; the public is welcome. The October theme for the gallery window is Homecoming The gallery is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday. For information on classes, call 941-7786694 or visit www.amiartistsguildgallery.com.
SEPTEMBER 30, 2015
www.amisun.com
THE SUN
19
20
THE SUN
OUTDOORS
SEPTEMBER 30, 2015
Sarasota Bay Watch awarded Disney grant
S
arasota Bay Watch (SBW) has continued to grow and provide the community with an understanding of the importance of a healthy bay to the community through many projects from scallop restoration, island clean ups, monofilament clean ups and much more. Recently SBW was awarded a $25,000 grant from the Disney Conservation Fund (DCF). The conservation grant recognizes Sarasota Bay Watch’s ongoing efforts to restore bay scallops to Sarasota Bay. Larry Stults, Chairman of Sarasota Bay Watch noted “This is the second year that the Disney Conservation Fund has awarded a grant for this project, which underscores the importance of marine species restoration, as well as the collaborative community effort behind it.” To date, community volunteers have released in excess of 70 million scallop larvae and over 100,000 juvenile scallops into Sarasota Bay.
Reel Time RUSTY CHINNIS Additionally, SBW this year initiated its Scallop Sanctuary project, where young adult scallops are placed in protective cages around the bay. The cages deter predators while the scallops mature and keep the scallops close together to promote a successful natural spawns. This project holds promise and is being expanded with the help of SBW and student volunteers. These restoration measures through the support of various segments of the community not only help achieve the goal of re-establishing stable breeding populations of bay scallops in Sarasota Bay, but also creates a sense of community
stewardship for our marine environment.. This program depends upon and has been supported by the generous ongoing work of volunteers and organizations like the DCF The DCF focuses on protecting wildlife and connecting kids and families with nature. Since its founding in 1995, DCF has provided more than $30 million to support conservation programs in 115 countries. Projects were selected to receive awards based upon their efforts to study wildlife, protect habitats and develop community conservation and education programs in critical ecosystems. For information on Disney’s commitment to conserve nature and a complete list of 2015 grant recipients, visit www.disney.com/conservation. To become involved in Sarasota Bay Watch’s efforts and see how you can help visit Sarasota Bay Watch’s web site at www. sarasotabaywatch.org.
rusty chinnis | submitted
Sarasota Bay Watch board member Pepper Deitz prepares to clean a cage in the new Scallop Sanctuary program.
SEPTEMBER 30, 2015
www.amisun.com
THE SUN
21
Action to heat up with shorter days, warmer water Captain Rick Grassett
Anglers fishing with me on my Action Craft flats skiff the Snook Fin-Addict, out of CB's Saltwater Outfitters on Siesta Key, caught and released snook, redfish, trout and Spanish mackerel in Sarasota Bay on flies and snook, trout and flounder in Gasparilla Sound on CAL jigs with shad tails and jerk worms during the past week. Steve Kost, from Lakewood Ranch, Fla., fished a pre-dawn snook/flats trip with me in Sarasota Bay on Tuesday. He caught and released five or six snook and a red on my Grassett Snook Minnow fly before daylight, then we moved to the flats, where he finished his slam with a few trout on an Ultra Hair Clouser fly. Keith McClintock, from Lake Forest, Ill., and Stephen Liska, from Naples, Fla., fished the backcountry of Gasparilla Sound near Boca Grande with me on Thursday. They caught and released a few trout, snook and a flounder on CAL jigs with shad tails and jerk worms. Many of the fish that we caught had a golden hue due to the dark, tannic water in that area. Lynn Skipper, from Apollo Beach, Fla.,
CAPTAIN rick grassett | submitted
Keith McClintock holds up a nice sea trout that he boated while fishing with Captain Rick Grassett last week. fished a pre-dawn snook/flats trip with me on Saturday morning. He caught and released snook, trout and Spanish mackerel on my Grassett Snook Minnow and Clouser flies. Fall is here and action will heat up as days get shorter and water cools down. False albacore should be a good option in the coastal Gulf, especially after another front cools the water and schools baitfish up. Snook fishing around lighted docks and bridges close to passes with flies and DOA Lures should also be a good option. Tarpon are moving to inside waters of Sarasota Bay, where you may find them around lighted docks and bridges, in passes or in canals and creeks. You may find trout, Spanish mack-
erel, blues and Jacks on deep grass flats, particularly close to passes. Look for reds, snook and big trout mixed with mullet schools on shallow flats and edges of bars.
Captain Kyle Taylor
This week has been just that, steady. We are between moon cycles and saw moderate tidal movement in combination with most fishing trips this week falling on the outgoing tide, which has made fishing slow and steady. We managed to catch plenty of fish this week, just at times we had to wait for the fish to turn on. The bite has been stronger on the incoming tide and the first part of the outgoing. The fish this week seemed to totally shut down near the bottom end of the outgoing tide. Bait is plentiful out around the beach of Anna Maria Island and near the northern piers of the Island. The snook, trout and mackerel bite has
been the best this week. Most of the snook we are catching are around the 25-inch mark near the edges of creeks and outflows of flats around Terra Ceia and around the mouth of the Manatee River. The trout and mackerel have been hanging on the edges of deeper grass near the main channels around Palma Sola Bay and the Cortez Bridge. We are also picking up a handful of snapper while we are trout and mackerel fishing. The redfish bite has been tough this week, and we only managed to catch a handful this week. Next week, as we approach the full moon, we will have better tides and the higher water will be in the mornings which should pick up the redfish bite. If you are looking to book a fishing charter trip in the area, book with Anna Maria Inshore Fishing LLC. Call or text fishing guide Captain Kyle Taylor 941-345-7182 or www. AnnaMariaInshoreFishing.com
Annie’s Bait and Tackle
Capt. Daniel Kesten says that the bait is plentiful off the beaches or you can chum it up in the flats. Catch and release snook are ready for opening day. They are biting best on live bait in the early morning and at dusk, but prefer dead bait during the day. The large redfish are schooling, and trout are on the deeper grass flats. Capt. Sam Kimball is catching beautiful red grouper on his three-quarter day trips along withe yellowtail, lane and mangrove snapper. Grunts and porgies round out the trips. Scamp are showing up on his all day trips. Capt. Scott Moore says catch and release snook are around the passes and off the beaches. The larger redfish have schooled. Mangrove snapper are on the hard bottom along the edge of the Intracoastal Waterway and around the passes. Pompano are showing up around the Cortez and Longboat bridges.
22
www.amisun.com
THE SUN
SEPTEMBER 30, 2015
Moose about to cut loose Moose Lodge #2188 offers a view unlike most other lodges. BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
BRADENTON BEACH – Barring any unforeseen delays, the Moose Lodge on Gulf Drive will unveil its new open-air, second story dining area and new 40-seat, horseshoe-shaped interior bar on Saturday, Oct. 3. The extensive renovations also produced a new main entry, new restrooms and a new office for Administrator Ernie Casali and the lodge officers. While providing a tour of the bright blue structure that resulted from the major reconstruction that took place at the south end of the lodge, Casali said, “It’s quite the building, it really is.” The permitting process began in December 2013 and the lodge remained open during the lengthy renovation period that followed. With the heavy lifting now nearly done, Casali can now focus his energies on membership and expanding the dinner menu that will now include lobster tails on a regular basis. “We’re adding several new items to our menu,” he said. Even though Lodge #2188 lost a few members while the renovations took place, it still ranks among the highest in the nation in terms of membership, and those numbers will likely grow as word spreads about the completed renovations and the second story patio that now offers a stunning view of the Gulf of Mexico and the beach below. Casali said he is looking forward this weekend, and he encourages folks to drop by anytime to learn more about the Moose organization and its charitable efforts.
joe hendricks | sun
Above, the new bright blue bunker-like structure at the south end of the Moose lodge is a real attention-grabber Left, members can belly up to a brand new bar when partaking in the celebration taking place this weekend at the renovated Moose lodge. Below left, Lodge Administrator Ernie Casali admires a view that will soon be enjoyed by Moose members.
www.amisun.com
SEPTEMBER 30, 2015
THE SUN
The following hotels and motels accept pets. Some have limitations on species, number, size and breed, some require pets to be caged before housekeeping services are rendered, some require deposits or extra charges, and some have special pet amenities, such as grassy areas for walking. Call ahead to find accommodations that match your needs, and make a list of several hotels in different parts of the state to be prepared for storms from any direction. ARCADIA Knights Inn 504 S. Brevard Ave. 863-494-4884 Holiday Inn Express 2709 Southeast Hwy. 70 863-494-5900 BRADENTON Best Western 2215 Cortez Rd W 941-238-0800 Best Western Plus 648 67th St. Cir. E. 941-757-5555 Courtyard Bradenton Sarasota/Riverfront 100 Riverfront Dr.W. 941-747-3727 Days Inn 3506 1st St.W. 941-746-1141 Days Inn I-75 644 67th St Circle East 941-746-2505 Hampton Inn 309 10th St W 941-746-9400 Motel 6 660 67th St. Circle E. 941-747-6005 Quality Inn 6727 14th St.W. 941-758-7199
Microtel Inn 6298 Nature Coast Blvd 352-796-9025
Hyatt Place 2600 Champion Ring Rd 239-418-1844
Quality Inn 30307 Cortez Blvd 352-796-9481
La Quinta Inn 9521 Market Place Rd 239-466-0012
DAYTONA BEACH Daytona Inn Seabreeze 730 N. Atlantic Ave. 386-255-5491
Allure Suites 9200 College Parkway 239-454-6363
Homewood Suites by Hilton 165 Bill France Blvd 386-258-2828 Residence Inn Daytona Beach Intl. Airport 1725 Richard Petty Blvd 386-252-3949
Residence Inn 20371 Summerlin Rd 239-415-4150 Travel Lodge 4760 S Cleveland Ave 239-275-1111 Travel Lodge 13661 Indian Paint Ln 239-561-1117
DELAND Budget Inn 2801 East NY Ave 386-736-3440
GAINESVILLE Best Western 4200 N.W. 97th Blvd. 352-331-3336
ELLENTON Guest House Inn 4915 17th St. E. 941-729-0600
Holiday Inn Express 3905 S.W. 43rd St. 352-376-0004
Sleep Inn 5605 18th St. E. 941-721-4933 Super 8 5218 17th St. E. 941-729-8505
Super 8 6516 14th St.W. 941-756-6656
FORT MEYERS Baymont Inn 9401 Marketplace Rd 239-454-0040
Sunrise Inn 668 67th St Circle E 941-745-1876
Four Points by Sheraton 13600 Treeline Ave S 239-322-1399
BROOKSVILLE Days Inn 6320 Windmere Rd 352-796-9486
Holiday Inn 2431 Cleveland Ave 239-332-3232
Motel 6 4000 S.W. 40th Blvd. 352-373-1604 Red Roof Inn 3500 S.W. 42nd St. 352-336-3311 KISSIMMEE Motel 6 5731 W. Irlo Bronson Hwy. 407-396-6333 Palms Hotel and Villas 3100 Parkway Blvd. 407-396-2229 Red Roof Inn 4970 Kyngs Heath Road 407-396-0065
23
24
www.amisun.com
THE SUN
LAKELAND Ramada Inn 3260 U.S. Hwy. 98 N. 863-688-8080
Residence Inn 825 Heathrow Park Lane 407-995-3400
Holiday Inn Lake Buena Vista 13351 State Road 535 407-239-4500
La Quinta Inn 1024 Crevasse St. 863-859-2866
LEESBURG Best Western 1321 N. 14th Street 352-460-0118
Motel 6 3120 U.S. Hwy. 98 N. 863-682-0643
Quality Inn 1392 North Blvd.W. 352-787-6363
Residence Inn 3701 Harden Blvd. 863-680-2323
OCALA Hampton Inn & Suites 3601 SW 38th Ave 352-867-0300
Motel 6 5909 American Way 407-351-6500
Holiday Inn Express 1212 S Pine Ave 352-629-7300
Residence Inn Sea World 11000 Westwood Blvd. 407-313-3600
LAKE BUENA VISTA Clarion Inn 8442 Palm Parkway 407-996-7300 Marriott Residence Inn 11450 Marbella Palm Court 407-465-0075
La Quinta Inn & Suites 3530 S.W. 36th Ave. 352-861-1137
LAKE CITY America’s Best Inn 339 SW Commerce Dr 386-755-6300
Microtel Inn 1770 Southwest 134th St 352-307-1166
Baymont Inn & Suites 3598 US 90 W 386-752-3801 Days Inn 3430 N US Hwy 441 386-758-4224 LAKE MARY Candlewood Suites 1130 Greenwood Blvd. 407-585-3000 Extended Stay America 1040 Greenwood Blvd 407-829-2332 La Quinta Inn 1060 Greenwood Blvd. 407-805-9901
Quality Inn 3434 SW College Rd 352-854-3200 Residence Inn 3610 S.W. 38th Ave. 352-547-1600 Sleep Inn and Suites 13600 S.W. 17th Court 352-347-8383 ORLANDO Country Inn 5440 Forbes Place 407-856-8896 Hard Rock Hotel 5800 Universal Blvd. 407-503-2000
La Quinta Inn - Universal Studios 5621 Major Blvd 407-313-3100 Motel 6 - Winter Park 5300 Adanson Street 407-647-1444
Rodeway Inn Maingate 5995 W. Irlo Bronson Hwy. 407-396-4300 Staybridge Inn 7450 Augusta National Dr 407-438-2121 Townplace Suites 11801 High Tech Ave. 407-243-6100
Days Inn 1941 Tamiami Trail 941-627-8900
Hampton Inn 975 University Parkway 941-355-8140
Kenilworth Lodge 1610 Lakeview Dr 863-385-0111
Motel 6 West 2738 N. Monroe St. 850-386-7878
Holiday Inn Express 8610 Elm Fair Blvd. 813-490-1000
Knights Inn 4100 Tamiami Trail 941-743-2442
Hibiscus Suites 1735 Stickney Point Road 941-921-5797
La Quinta Inn 4115 US 27 South 863-386-1000
Quality Inn 3090 N. Monroe St. 850-562-2378
Holiday Inn Express 8310 Galbraith 813-910-7171
Microtel Inn 4056 Tamiami Trail 941-624-6339
Holiday Inn 6231 Lake Osprey Dr 941-782-4400
Quality Inn & Suites 6525 US 27 North 863-385-4500
Red Roof Inn 2930 Hospitality Street 850-385-7884
Quality Inn & Suites Fairgrounds 4955 E. 18th Ave. 813-623-6000
Sleep Inn & Suites 806 Kings Highway 941-613-6300
Holiday Inn Express 5730 Gantt Rd 941-925-0631
Residence Inn 3221 Tubbs Road 863-314-9100
Residence Inn 1880 Raymond Diehl Road 850-422-0093
PUNTA GORDA Four Points by Sheraton 33 Tamiami Trail 941-637-6770
Holiday Inn Sarasota Airport 8009 15th St. E. 941-355-9000
SPRING HILL Microtel Inn 4881 Commercial Way 352-596-3444
Residence Inn Universities 600 W. Gaines St. 850-329-9080
Knights Inn 9300 Knights Dr 941-505-5701
Hotel Indigo Sarasota 1223 Boulevard of the Arts 941-487-3800
Motel 6 6172 Commercial Way 352-596-2007
Punta Gorda Waterfront Hotel 300 W Retta Esplanade 941-639-1165
La Quinta Inn & Suites 1803 N.Tamiami Trail 941-366-5128
SUN CITY Sun City Center Inn 809N. Pebble Beach Blvd 813-634-3331
The Wyvern Hotel 101 E Retta Esplanade 941-639-7700 RUSKIN Ruskin Inn 3113 College Ave 813-641-3437
PLANT CITY Comfort Inn 2003 S Frontage Rd 813-707-6000
SANFORD Days Inn 4650 W FL 48 407-323-6500
Knights Inn 301 S Frontage Rd 813-752-0570 PORT CHARLOTTE Country Inn 24244 Corporate Court 941-235-1035
SEPTEMBER 30, 2015
Best Western Plus 3401 S Orlando Dr 407-320-0845 SARASOTA Comfort Suites 5690 Honore Ave 941-554-4475
Residence Inn 1040 University Pkwy. 941-358-1468 Days Inn 5000 N.Tamiami Trail 941-351-7734 Sleep Inn 900 University Pkwy. 941-359-8558 SEBRING Chateau Elan Hotel 150 Midway Dr 863-655-7200 Holiday Inn Express 4400 US 27 North 863-386-1115
TALLAHASSEE Best Western Pride Inn 2016 Apalachee Parkway 850-656-6312 Best Western Seminole Inn 6737 Mahan Drive 850-656-2938 Econo Lodge North 2681 N. Monroe St. 850-385-6155 La Quinta Inn North 2905 N. Monroe St. 850-385-7172 Motel 6 Downtown 1027 Apalachee Parkway 850-877-6171
Sleep Inn 1695 Capital Circle N.W. 850-575-5885 Staybridge Suites 1600 Summit Lake Drive 850-219-7000 Suburban Extended Stay Hotel 522 Silver Slipper Lane 850-386-2121 TAMPA Clarion Hotel 2701 E. Fowler Ave. 813-971-4710 Econo Lodge 4732 N. Dale Mabry Hwy. 813-874-6700 Hampton Inn 5628 W Waters Ave 813-901-5900 Holiday Inn Express 9402 Corporate Lake Dr 813-885-3700
Red Roof Inn 2307 E. Busch Blvd. 813-932-0073 Residence Inn 4312 W. Boy Scout Blvd. 813-877-7988 TEMPLE TERRACE Holiday Inn Express 13294 Telcom Dr 813-972-9800 Residence Inn 13420 N Telcom Parkway 813-972-4400 Towne Place Suites 6800 Woodstork Rd 813-975-9777 WINTER HAVEN Howard Johnson Inn 1300 3rd St SW 863-294-7321 Lake Roy Beach Inn 1825 Cypress Garden Blvd 863-324-6320 Magnuson Grand Conference Hotel 5651 Cypress Garden Blvd 863-324-5950 Ranch House Inn 1911 Cypress Gardens Blvd. 863-324-5994
%UDGHQWRQ 9HWHULQDU\ (PHUJHQF\
0DQDWHH $YHQXH :HVW %UDGHQWRQ )/
ZZZ %UDGHQWRQ(59HW FRP
1,*+76 ‡ :((.(1'6 ‡ +2/,'$<6
 � � � �  � € ‚ € ƒ� �  „ …  †
‡‡ˆ‰ � Š  ‰‹ŒŽ‘ ‡‹Ž’“‘”’“‡‡‡
• –  Žˆ � — ‚  ‚ …
www.amisun.com
SEPTEMBER 30, 2015
THE SUN
25
Saving the planet, one bag at a time A
fter years of going to the grocery store and buying plastic trash bags and watching them put the plastic trash bags in plastic grocery bags, a light bulb finally went off. Why not use the grocery bags as trash bags instead? You save money because you don’t have to buy trash bags, and you lessen the footprint you leave on the Earth because manufacturers have to make fewer bags, using less water and polluting less. Yes, there’s a small initial investment to make this work – simple devices costing from $5 to $15 that mount inside a kitchen or bathroom cabinet door with hooks that hold standard plastic grocery bags. Locally, you can buy the devices at Crowder Brothers Hardware and Publix, or find one online with a lid and a base at the Container Store. And yes, you have to empty your trash more frequently than if you use a 20-gallon trash bag, but you get a little extra exercise and some fresh air, and they’re easier to carry. Keep Manatee Beautiful’s expert on all things beautiful, Ingrid McClellan, thinks saving the planet one grocery bag at a time is a good idea. At first, she was a bit skeptical, saying it would be better if plastic grocery bags were banned altogether. Manatee County has a problem with bags blowing out of trash cans, vehicles and boats directly into the water or into storm drains that lead to the water, where sea turtles and other wildlife
BY CINDY LANE mistake them for food or get entangled in them, she said. But the bags have not yet been banned and may never be, and in the meantime, using grocery bags as trash bags is a way to get them into landfills and keep them from blowing around the beaches, the waterways, the highways, and everywhere else you see them blowing around because people are using them as totes instead of trash bags. Just a few of us re-purposing grocery bags is not enough. But what an impact it would make if everyone who owns a vacation rental on Anna Maria Island installed the devices in their units. McClellan could take that to the national Keep America Beautiful folks, who could really get this idea going. And if it catches on, you won’t be reading any more sad stories about a sea turtle choking to death on a plastic grocery bag in this paper or maybe anywhere else. Plastic grocery bags rank number seven in the top 10 items collected worldwide in the International Coastal Cleanup, which continues on Saturday, Oct. 3, from 9 a.m. to noon. On Sept. 19, Keep Manatee Beautiful and 60 volunteers from the Manatee County Parks and Natural Resources
During sea turtle season, May 1 – Oct. 31, please follow these tips: • Turn off lights visible from the beach and close blinds from sundown to sunrise; lights confuse nesting sea turtles and may cause them to go back to sea and drop their eggs in the water, where they won’t hatch. Light can also attract hatchlings away from the water. • Don’t use flashlights or camera flashes on the beach at night. • Remove all objects from the sand from sundown to sunrise; they can deter sea turtles from nesting and disorient hatchlings. • Fill in the holes you dig in the sand before leaving the beach; they can trap nesting and hatching sea turtles, which cannot live long out of the water. • Don’t use sky lanterns or fireworks; they litter the beach and Gulf. • Do not trim trees and plants that shield the beach from lights. • Never touch a sea turtle; it’s the law. If you see people disturbing turtles, call the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s Wildlife Alert hotline at 888-404-FWCC (3922).
SUBMITTED
This and other simple devices make it easy to reuse a grocery bag as a trash bag. Department, Bank of America and Girl Scouts kicked off the 30th annual event locally, removing 110 pounds of trash from Coquina Beach Park.
Join them; register by e-mailing keep@manateebeautiful.com or call 941-795-8272, right after you get your grocery bag holder.
30th International Coastal Cleanup sites • Anna Maria City Hall, 10005 Gulf Drive • Kingfish boat ramp on State Road 64 West, west of the Manatee Avenue bridge in Holmes Beach • F.I.S.H. Preserve, 11601 Cortez Road W. • Historic Wares Creek at Bradenton Woman’s Club, 1705 Manatee Ave. W. • Ray’s Canoe Hideaway, 1289 Hagle Park Road off Upper Manatee River Road (free
boat launch and use of canoes on a firstcome, first-serve basis) • Old Braden River Historical Society at Jiggs’ Landing, intersection of Braden River Road and Linger Lodge Road - bring your canoe, kayak or power boat.
Where’s Amie?
Source: Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission
Still bringing up the rear in the Tour de Turtles race is Amie, satellite tagged in June on Coquina Beach after she nested. The race is sponsored by the Sea Turtle Conservancy to see how far satellitetagged turtles migrate. Lingering off the Everglades, Amie has traveled 132 miles since the race began on Aug. 2.
26
THE SUN
Nesting News Sea turtles Nests laid: 356 False crawls: 441 Nests hatched: 173 Hatchlings to Gulf: 12,048 Overwashed (nests that had water over them): 80 Standing water (nests that were inundated with standing water): 49 Partial washout (some eggs, but not all, missing from nests): 17 Complete washout (nest and all eggs washed away or all stakes identifying nest location washed away): 52 Nest disorientations: 18 Not hatched: 153 Nests remaining: 30 Source: Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring
www.amisun.com
SEPTEMBER 30, 2015
Sunday ~ October 4th
t
! e m Ti o c a
! B AM
S
ee Y
T s ’ t I
only Savory Shrimp orr Fresh Fish Tacos,
9 9 . $
8
at all 3 AMOB locations. Thank You For Voting For Us!
First Place... Early Bird Dinner Raw Bar Seafood Restaurant Finalist... Outdoor Dining F
HAPPY HOUR EVERY DAY! 11am-5pm & 8pm-close LANDSIDE
CORTEZ
ELLENTON
941.758.7880
941.792.0077
941.721.7773
(1.5 miles north of SRQ Airport)
(5 min from Anna Maria Island)
( Take I-75 Exit 224 west)
6906 14th St. W. on US 41
6696 Cortez Rd.
1525 51st Ave. E.
BUY ONE ENTRÉE, GET ONE HALF OFF! (Must bring in this ad to redeem offer)
GAME DAY SPECIALS
Now offering SUNDAY BRUNCH
(College & NFL games) 50¢ wings 1/2 price pizzas 1/2 price pitchers & 1/2 price buckets
11AM - 3PM
Bottomless Mimosas Breakfast Combos
Simple, Fresh American Food, Gourmet Pizzas & Spirits p DAILY LUNCH SPECIALS Thurs - Sun 11am to 3pm $5 BURGERS (single) $7.50 double $10 triple $6 PITCHERS (Bud Light/Miller Light)
LIVE MUSIC SCHEDULE THURSDAY
SATURDAY
6-10PM
6-10PM
10/1
10/3
PBJ
THE USUAL SUSPECTS
(Bud Light/Miller Light)
FRIDAY
SUNDAY
DAILY HAPPY HOUR MON-WED 5-7 THURS-SUN 11-7
6-10PM
6-10PM
$2 16 oz. drafts $2.50 20 oz. drafts
1/2 OFF WELL SPIRITS $2 16 oz. drafts $2.50 20 oz. drafts
10/2
THE GUILTY PLEASURES
10/4
GABRIEL NEWELL
(Bud Light/Miller Light)
Open Mon-Wed 5pm to 11pm • Thurs-Sun 11am To 11pm • Takeout Available 101 BRIDGE STREET • BRADENTON BEACH • (941) 251-3930 • WWW.THEFRECKLEDFIN.COM
SEPTEMBER 30, 2015
www.amisun.com
THE SUN
27
28
S
THE SUN
REAL ESTATE
SEPTEMBER 30, 2015
No more secrets in real estate
o you’re just starting to think it may be time to sell your house. What do you do first? In the not too distant past, you would probably call a real estate agent and ask him/her to come over and give you an idea of what your property is worth. However, today you will more than likely pickup your smart phone, laptop or pad to get an idea of what’s selling in the area, either through Facebook or one of the many real estate search engines available. You may think, OK I just got a lot of information really fast and move on to the novel you’re reading on your e-book reader. But what you may have actually done by searching on the Internet is providing information to companies who buy data subscriptions targeting prospective clients. No surprisingly algorithms have been created to identify sellers based on age, children’s age, net worth, value of home, social circles and possibly even more personal details. This information is then marketed to the real estate
Castles in the Sand Louise Bolger community in order for it to solicit you via direct mail, telephone or Internet contact. It’s pretty common to have pop-ups connected to something you were recently searching for on the internet, cars, hotels, even clothing. Well it’s sort of the same thing; the marketing company generates the algorithms based on your searches and then sends you online ads from their real estate clients that fit what you were looking for. Brilliant and effective target marketing without anyone leaving their desks. Even the aged old technique of scanning obituaries for real estate leads has come into the 21st century. There a number of new
firms that track major life events like marriage, divorce and, of course, death that are prime reasons people sell their homes. These companies do all the time consuming work of checking title company records, probate records and obituaries compiling a list of homeowners or their heirs, most of which have paid up properties and have to sell. For a monthly fee, an aggressive agent can get this information and contact the individual or the family hopefully in a tasteful way. Another major source of leads for real estate professionals are homes that are being marketed by their owners as for sale by owner or FSBO. Homeowners decide to market their properties themselves primarily to avoid the real estate commission, which is typically 6 percent. Many professional homeowners feel that they are more than adequately capable to sell their biggest asset themselves, especially with the help of FSBO Websites. In spite of the availability of Internet Websites to help, the for sale by owner market is
still a small piece of real estate sales. In 2014 according to the National Association of Realtors, only 9 percent of sales took place without an agent, a percentage that is down from 14 percent 10 years ago. In addition FSBO properties sell lower maybe because sellers have more flexibility in price since they don’t pay commission or maybe because they just want to get a very difficult process over with. Whatever the reason, sellers don’t have access to the pool of buyers that are just right for the property that real estate professionals do. Since agents don’t want to waste their valuable time, it’s unlikely they will be bringing buyers to your home if they’re are not qualified to buy and are not looking for your type of property. If you’re trying to keep a secret, don’t go on the Internet, where a smart technical egghead will match you up to the little black dress you’ve been looking for or the beachfront home. Well, maybe that’s not too bad. After all, who needs secrets?
www.amisun.com
SEPTEMBER 30, 2015
THE SUN
29
CENTER: Personnel moves questioned FROM PAGE 5
Coach Darren Wash said, “All the kids loved them. They were great with interacting with the kids.” However, other parents, who declined to be identified, said there were issues with organizational skills, follow through and lack of supervision. One said, “Parents asked for improvement. They knew they had to start doing things differently.” Another explained, “They were not leading the department, but the Center did not give them the guidance and support they needed. They were treated poorly and never given clear direction.”
Raising fees
Both Ray and Gardner said one of the problems they faced was when fees were raised for the sports program. “We’re the most expensive league around – both kids and adults and all sports,” Ray pointed out. “Teams were dropping off because people couldn’t afford it. If someone wants to play sports and has a kid or two that wants to play sports, it gets expensive.” Gardner said soccer was down two teams in the 3 to 5 division, 1 in the 6 to 7 division
and three teams in the 8 to 10 division. “We raised the price of sports, and people said it was too expensive,” Gardner explained. “The sponsorships went from $350 to $500, and we got no sponsors, so we came up with a format to reduce the price to get people back.” Gardener said the Center planned four tournaments in the summer, but he and Ray felt the price at $25 was too high to enter. At the first tournament, baseball, no one came and one team showed up for the volleyball tournament. “We asked to drop it to $10 and said we could make up the difference with raffles,” Gardner continued. “The next tournament was flag football, and we got five or six teams and then we got nine teams for basketball. We made $200 in raffles, but we never got any congratulations or positive feedback."
The play’s the thing
The other issue is the fact that both Ray and Gardner are in the cast of the Center’s annual murder mystery play, which is in rehearsals now. However, their being banned from the Center caused an unusual situation. “When they were fired, they were told they could no longer be part of the play,” Beth Shaughnessy, the play’s author and director, explained.
“It caused a domino effect. We’re an extremely tight knit cast and the others said if Matt and Ray were out they wouldn’t do it either.” Shaughnessy, Shuman and others are attempting to reach a compromise regarding the appearance of Ray and Gardner in the play and negotiations are ongoing. “It’s not an easy thing,” Shuman said. “The cast was not pre-warned, and it’s affecting their ability to go forward.” “Matt and Ray need to be part of the play,” Shaughnessy stressed. “We feel pretty positive about it.”
Moving on
“I’ve been here four years and been through four directors,” Ray said. “It’s taking a different route. It’s not a country club, it’s a community center. “I love the community aspect. If you get away from that, you don’t have a community center. It’s hard not to be a part of it.” “We have put our heart and soul into the Center and people have been really supportive,” Gardner added. “I have no ill will. I love the Center and want it to succeed.” Regarding a transition, Lessig explained, “As to the viability of the sports programs, we have been working with coaches and captains
to ensure the smoothest possible transition. All games are set to begin on schedule next week for youth soccer and both adult soccer and basketball." She said they have created the position of recreation director to oversee both the afterschool activities and sports, which was filled by an individual with an educational teaching background as well as sports coaching and administration background. “The vast experience in working with children, as well as qualifications in holding a Master’s of Education Administration degree +45, principal and superintendent, makes him an ideal candidate for ensuring that all aspects of the programs are administered with proper communication, oversight and attention to details,” she said. They also have added a youth program manager with a degree in physical education, who has taught ages K through 8th grade and has experience in coaching and as an athletic director. This manager will focus on the day-to-day facilitation of the before- and after-school activities and youth sports. “We will continue to improve programs and services going forward and are excited to share the many new ideas and facility enhancements at the grand re-opening on Monday Oct. 5,” Lessig concluded.
30
www.amisun.com
THE SUN
Olson memorial highway in works BY CINDY LANE SUN STAFF WRITER | clane@amisun.com
Christine Olson’s 10-year quest to memorialize her daughter, a victim of a traffic accident on U.S. Highway 19 in 2005, received unanimous support last week from the Manatee County Commission. Commissioners adopted a resolution supporting the designation of U.S. Highway 19 from the U.S. Highway 41 interchange to Palm View Road as the Tiffany Marie Olson Memorial Highway. “It’s very bittersweet,� she told commissioners, thanking them for supporting her “from the very beginning.� Olson was not notified of her daughter’s death until six hours after it happened. “I was watching TV with a bowl of ice cream while my daughter lay dead in the street,� she told
commissioners. On a legal pad at the Rod & Reel Pier in Anna Maria where she works, she hatched an idea to speed notifications of emergencies to family members. “To Inform Families First,� or “TIFF,� named for her daughter, allows people to submit their emergency contact information as part of their motor vehicle, driver license or identification card registration. Olson and the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles also developed a Web application that allows people to voluntarily enter their emergency contact information online, according to the resolution passed by the commission. Olson said it was bittersweet to receive the TIFF registration in in the mail with her vehicle registration. “A million Floridians are getting
registered a year,� she said, adding that she plans to take the idea to Indiana and other states and around the world. “It’s not just an issue in Florida,� she said. “This is a national issue. The national average is six hours before families are notified, through no fault of law enforcement; they just don’t know your contact information.� Because the Florida Department of Transportation requires a local agency to request a memorial highway designation from a state legislator who agrees with the dedication, the commission requested Sen. Bill Galvano to begin the process of filing a bill in the Legislature. Upon approval by the Legislature and governor, the Florida Department of Transportation will erect signs on the highway, according to the resolution. “We are the change,� Olson said.
SEPTEMBER 30, 2015
SOAK UP SOME
SUNSHINE
1301&35: ."/"(&.&/5 p 3&"- &45"5& 4"-&4 p 7"$"5*0/ 3&/5"-4
Contact Us Today! Rentals@IslandVacationProperties.com www.IslandVacationProperties.com p
www.amisun.com
SEPTEMBER 30, 2015
THE SUN
31
Dinner raises funds for CCA
SUBMITTED
Chamber meets and greets Judy Tatar, Jan Pratt, Zora Papp, Ben Soka, Mark Bowman, Jen Bowman and Annette Forsberg were among the guests at the Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce business card exchange at Casa Del Mar Beach Resort on Longboat Key last week.
in brief Kiwanis officers elected The Kiwanis Club of Anna Maria Island elected new officers this month for 2015-16: President - Robyn Mary Kinkopf Treasurer - Susan Kruse
The Coastal Collaboration Dinner, a benefit for Coastal Conservation Association Florida at the Seafood Shack Marina, Bar & Grill in Cortez, raised over $1,500 earlier this month. The chefs prepared and presented dishes inspired by “Under a Dark Summer Sky,” a book by the evening’s special guest, Vanessa Lafaye, set in the Florida Keys in 1935. The non-profit CCA educates the public on conservation of marine resources and aims to conserve, promote, and enhance the present and future availability of those resources for the benefit and enjoyment of the general public.
Secretary - Jackie Flahive Board member - Dr. Bob LaMastro Board member - Roger Domme Foundation officer - Jackie Flahive (secretary)
HB budget approved Holmes Beach commissioners approved a millage rate of 2.25 and a budget of
SUBMITTED
From left to right are Chef Gerard Jesse, Seafood Shack Marina, Bar & Grill; Chef Dave Shiplett, SOMA Creek Side; Jed Lippincott, Controller, Seafood Shack Marina, Bar & Grill; Brian Gorski, Executive Director, CCA Florida; Chef Derek Barnes, Derek’s Pastry Chef; Dana Johnson, Sugar Cubed Bakery.
$11,392,875 at the second public hearing last week. At the first public hearing, residents had complained about the millage rate and asked if the city could split the millage increase over two years and take some money out of reserves. However, an analysis by Treasurer Lori Hill showed that residents would realize only a small savings ranging from $40.90
for an average homesteaded property to $54.28 for an average non-homesteaded property. Later in the week, Hill announced that the city received a settlement of $96,749.58 from BP for damages from the 2010 Deepwater Horizon oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico.
32
www.amisun.com
THE SUN
Development disputes continue; harsh rhetoric escalates Tensions between the city and Shawn Kaleta’s legal team ebbed and flowed last week. BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun. com
ANNA MARIA – During last Thursday’s meeting, Mayor Dan Murphy updated city commissioners on the ongoing disputes between the city and Shawn Kaleta’s Beach to Bay construction firm. Murphy alluded to his recent decision to suspend water and electrical services at Kaleta’s 9802 Gulf Drive property and recapped a conversation that took place between City Attorney Becky Vose and one of Kaleta’s attorneys earlier in the week. “Those meetings were not productive, they were counterproductive. They were filled with threats of going to war, of suing both the city attorney and I personally. At one point they wanted to know why I wasn’t on the phone, because they wanted me to hear the anger in their voice. My reaction to that is you should hear the anger in the voices of the residents,” Murphy said. “Since that point in time, things have cooled off. Today, the city attorney and I had a lengthy meeting with three or four other attorneys, as well as Mr. Kaleta and some of his staff. It was a very productive meeting. There was none of the rhetoric, there were none of the threats, and things have been dialed way back. “We went through in some great detail the concerns that I have and the concerns that Beach to Bay has. Mr. Kaleta stated he wants to abide by our ordinances and our codes and that he feels he is. It was a good and frank exchange of ideas,” Murphy concluded.
Dispute resumes
The peace accord did not last. On Friday morning, Vose sent an e-mail to Kaleta’s at-
torney, Louis Najmy. “In accordance with the discussions yesterday, the permits pending for properties located at 303 South Bay and 881 North Shore will be issued and the permits can be picked up at 3 p.m. on Tuesday, provided both permits meet the city of Anna Maria's building codes and standards and are approved by Mr. Garrett and Mr. Strickland for issuance.” Alan Garrett is the city planner and Jimmy Strickland is the building official. Responding within the hour, Najmy wrote, “It is discouraging because the building department already conveyed to my client that the permits meet the city’s codes and ordinances and have been approved for issuance. That said, we accept this as your commitment.” The tone became harsher later that afternoon when Najmy e-mailed Vose and Murphy about the stop work order and suspension of water and electrical services at 9802 Gulf Drive. “We demand the red tag be lifted and the power and water be turned back on. Doing so today will only help reduce the damages the city will be responsible for. Keep in mind, there is no sound reason why the city should have taken such an action, but more egregiously no sound or just reason why the city would cut off power and water to the property and even brag about it to the press,” Najmy wrote. “Failure to act in accordance with our demand will be a negative reflection on this administration as this e-mail becomes public through our damages suit against the city and especially once the suit is decided in our favor, which we know it will be,” Najmy concluded. When it was learned that Murphy was out of town, Najmy’s associate, Aaron Thomas, forwarded Najmy’s demands to the rest of the City Commission. This prompted Vose to issue a note to commissioners that said, “The e-mail constitutes
Mr. Kaleta stated he wants to abide by our ordinances and our codes and that he feels he is.” Dan Murphy Anna Maria mayor
We demand the red tag be lifted and the power and water be turned back on. Doing so today will only help reduce the damages the city will be responsible for. ” Louis Najmy Shawn Kaleta attorney an outrageous misrepresentation (a/k/a ‘lie’) concerning what went on at the meeting Thursday afternoon. It was also sent to you in total contravention of Florida Bar Rules that prohibit direct contact by an attorney to a person represented by an attorney.” Vose also sent Najmy an e-mail that said, “I’m curious whether you informed your associate that I specifically directed you not to contact my client pursuant to Florida Bar rules before you directed him to contact my client.” In response, Najmy wrote, “Yikes. I might have misunderstood your direction. I thought our direction was not to contact with your presence. I’m very sorry if I misunderstood. How can I correct this?”
SEPTEMBER 30, 2015
www.amisun.com
SEPTEMBER 30, 2015
THE SUN
beach beat
the north of where he was staying. In the morning, he checked his vehicle and discovered his i-Pod missing. He said his doors were locked but the canvas top that covers the rear of the vehicle was left down.
Bradenton Beach
9/24, 3 a.m., trespass warning, 500 block of Gulf Drive. While on patrol, an officer noticed a person believed to be a vagrant sleeping on the beach. The officer advised the person to gather his belongings and leave, because there is no camping on the beach. Further investigation revealed the man had a bag and belongings on a beach chair on property located on the 300 block of Gulf Drive South. After gathering his belongings, the person was warned not to return and he left. He was later seen heading eastbound on the Cortez Bridge.
9/11, 10:22 p.m., criminal mischief, 219 Gulf Drive South. While video recording a requested tow taking place at Joe’s Eats & Sweets, the business owner reported the vehicle owner began yelling at him and kicked his phone out of his hand. When the phone hit the ground the glass shattered. The business owner said he initiated the tow because the car was parked for two hours. The vehicle owner said he purchased ice cream and parked there for only 30 minutes while visiting a nearby restaurant. It was agreed that if the vehicle owner paid for the phone repairs or replacement, the business owner would not press charges. When the vehicle owner later failed to live up to this arrangement, the business owner filed charges with the state attorney’s office. 9/22, 9 p.m., burglary to vehicle, 1900 block of Gulf Drive. The victim said he heard his car alarm sound around 4:30 p.m. He checked his vehicle and found nothing missing or disturbed. While returning to his unit, he heard another alarm sound at the property to
Holmes Beach
9/15, grand theft, 7800-8500 block of Gulf Drive. While on patrol, an officer was flagged down by an Oneco Concrete and Asphalt employee who said three signs had been stolen; and Woodruff & Sons had one sign stolen from a work site on Marina Drive between 78th & 85th streets. The officer found no physical evidence nor any leads to follow, but noticed the plastic signs remained, which led him to believe the metal signs were taken by someone who hoped to sell them for scrap.
Team Blake needs your help BRADENTON BEACH – The Fish Hole on Bridge Street will host an adventure golf fundraiser for 13-year-old Blake Carpenter on Saturday, Oct 3, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Blake has suffered from cerebral palsy and epileptic seizures since birth. In late July, he underwent brain surgery in hope that it would lessen or eliminate his frequent seizures. The surgery proved unsuccessful and resulted in hallucinations and a loss of motor skills that will require extensive and long-term physical therapy. Blake was then diagnosed with Anti-NMDA receptor encephalitis, an auto-immune disorder that may take years to recover from, if at all. The cost to enter Saturday’s fundraising event is $20 per person and $10 for those 6 and under. This covers two rounds of miniature golf and wings from Wings ‘N Things. Items donated by local businesses will be offered in a silent auction and every penny raised will help Blake’s mom Chrystal offset mounting medical expenses. Donations can also be made to the Team Blake Go Fund Me account at https://www.gofundme. com/up2nmw.
33
obituaries Alvin L. Kipp Alvin L. Kipp, 86, of Anna Maria, died Sept. 14, 2015. Born in Gardner, Fla., to Henry A. and Violet (Kelso) Kipp, he grew up in Haines City, Fla., and was in the grove caretaking business there. He moved to Bradenton in 1960, where he owned and operated Super Grove Service for 10 years. He then went into real estate, where he owned Au Chalet Realty until 2003 when he retired. He was a member and past president of Manatee County Board of Realtors and MLS, a member of the First United Methodist Church and a member of the choir for many years. His hobbies included fishing, golfing and especially watching his grandchildren playing sports and other activities. He was predeceased by his parents, Henry A. and Violet K. Kipp; grandson, Dustin C. Wilder; survived by wife of 62 years, Bernice ‘’Bea’’ Kipp, of Anna Maria; son, Terry (Vickie) Kipp, of Bradenton; daughters, Lisa (Dave) Bristow, of Bradenton; and Karen (Mike) Herlihy, of Bradenton; brothers, Dale (Bonnie) Kipp, of West Palm Beach, Fla. and James Kipp, of Haines City, Fla.; grandchildren, Tiffany (Christopher) Coogan, Amy (Donnie) Anderson, Courtney and Cara Bristow and Savannah and Kipp Edgens; great grandchildren, Hailey and Henry Coogan; and many nieces, nephews, aunts and uncles. Services were Friday, Sept. 18, at Brown & Sons Funeral Homes and Crematory, 43rd Street Chapel, 604 43rd St. W., Bradenton. Memorial donations may be made to Manatee County Gator Club Scholarship Fund, P.O. Box 451, Bradenton, FL 34206 or Tidewell Hospice, Inc., 5955 Rand Blvd. Sarasota, FL 34238. Condolences may be made to www.brownandsonsfuneral.com.
Charlie Knopp Charlie Knopp, age 90, of Holmes Beach, passed away Sept. 25, 2015. Arrangements are by the National Cremation and Burial Society, Sarasota.
PAT COPELAND | SUN
Center fish fry Island Community Center members were treated to a free, old-fashioned community fish fry Saturday evening in the Center gymnasium. All the food, including the tasty seafood, was donated and prepared by Harry’s Grill in Anna Maria. Also on the menu was a fine selection of hot dogs, baked beans, potato salad, chips, cookies and ice cream. Drinks were also available and provided by Gulf Coast Eagle Distributors.
34
www.amisun.com
THE SUN
SEPTEMBER 30, 2015
Island Players are on the case Inspector Pratt and company hope to tickle some funny bones with the season opener. BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com
ANNA MARIA – The Island Players Theater will kick off its 67th season on Thursday, Oct 8, with the opening night performance of Peter Gordon’s “Murdered to Death.” The comedic murder mystery features Mark Shoemaker as the incompetent Inspector Pratt, who bungles his way through a murder investigation involving a cast of characters cooped up in an English manor.
Directed by Heiko Knipfelberg, the cast includes Cathy Hansel-Edgerton, Susan Mergens, Steve Horowitz, Peter Ruscoe, Sylvia Marnie, Kristen Allan, Mitcheal Pearl, Robin Rhodes and Lucas Piety. “Peter Gordon wanted to do a spoof on the Agatha Christie stories, and this is the first of the trilogy he put together. I see Inspector Pratt as being modeled after Peter Sellers’ Inspector Clouseau in the Pink Panther movies,” Knipfelberg said. Directing his third production for the Island Players, Knipfelberg feels the cast offers a nice blend of theater regulars and newcomers. “They’re all doing a terrific job creating their characters.
town crier Rummage for Rescues The Second Annual Rummage for Rescues will take place Oct. 2 to 4 at 318 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria, across the street from the AMI Community Center. Sale proceeds will benefit several area animal rescue groups, including Manatee County Animal Services; Hope for Paws; Satchels Last Resort; Gulf Shore Animal League, which rescues cats and kittens and helps with TNR (trap, neuter, return) of feral cats; and Animal Network, which helps treat heartworm-positive dogs. In addition to the sale, there will be animals ready for adoption provided by the rescues. For more information, contact Caryn Hodge at 941-713-3105.
Center to hold golf tourney The AMI Community Center’s Seventh Annual Golf Outing is set for Friday, Oct. 2, at the Longboat Key Resort. Registration starts at 11 a.m. followed by a BBQ lunch and the shotgun at 1 p.m. The fee is $150 per person or $500 for a foursome. A golf cart and lunch are included. There will be a $10,000 hole-in-one contest, longest drive and closest to the pin contests, raffle prizes and a 50/50 raffle. Sponsorships are available. Contact Wende Webb at 941-778-1908, ext. 9203, or e-mail wendew@islandcommunitycenter.org.
You’ve got the Colonel and his wife, a pair of art dealing con artists, the butler, the mistress of the manor and her niece, and they all become suspects. It’s a fun show and we’re having a ball doing it,” he said. “There’s no big message in this; it’s just a fun night out with a lot of laughs. You can go several ways with this thing, and I’ve chosen one I hope the audience will have fun with,” Knipfelberg said. “Murdered to Death” will run from Thursday, Oct. 8, through Sunday, Oct. 18. Evening performances will take place Tuesday through Saturday evenings at 8 p.m., with Sunday matinees at 2 p.m. The Island Players Theater is located at the corner of
MIKE FIELD | SUN
The cast of “Murdered to Death” is busy rehearsing for opening night on Oct. 8. Gulf Drive and Pine Avenue in Anna Maria. The box office is open Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and one hour before all perfor-
Scallopalooza Saturday
World Communion Sunday
The Fifth Annual Scallopalooza is scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 3, at the Sarasota Yacht Club, 1100 John Ringling Boulevard, Sarasota. Cocktails are at 6 p.m. with dinner at 7 p.m. The event raises funds for scallop restoration in Sarasota Bay. Enjoy a fun social evening with delicious food, entertainment and a beautiful venue and participate in silent and live auctions. Tickets are $85 per person, including dinner (cash bar). Tables for eight are available for $680. To purchase tickets, visit www.sarasotabaywatch.org.
On Sunday, Oct. 4, congregations around the globe will celebrate World Communion Sunday, and everyone is invited to join the celebration at Roser Community Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. All the music for the 10 a.m. worship service will be either world music or music that celebrates the diversity as well as the unity of Christians around the world. The music is accompanied by a combo of acoustic piano and guitar, flute and light percussion. The Chancel Choir will also provide special music. For more information call the church office at 941-778-0414, e-mail info@ roserchurch.com, go to www. roserchurch.com or on Facebook at www. facebook/roserchurch.
Clean up the coast The International Coastal Cleanup is Saturday, Oct. 3, from 9 a.m. to noon. Join in at the following locations: • Anna Maria City Hall, 10005 Gulf Drive • Kingfish Boat Ramp, Manatee Avenue, Holmes Beach • F.I.S.H. Preserve, 11601 Cortez Road W. Bring your own gloves, sunscreen and cooler and wear closed toe shoes. Trash bags and drinks will be provided. Register by e-mailing keep@manateebeautiful.com or call 941-795-8272.
St. Francis Day animal blessing A free St. Francis Blessing of the Animals Festival will be held on Sunday, Oct. 4, from 2 to 5 p.m. at the Church of the Annunciation, 4408 Gulf Drive in Holmes Beach, featuring rescue groups, refreshments and prizes.
Community Center ribbon cutting The Anna Maria Island Community Center will hold a ribbon cutting on Monday, Oct. 5, at 6 p.m., in honor of its grand re-opening. The event will be at 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria.
Blood drive in honor of Shore The Office of the Manatee County Clerk of Circuit Court and Comptroller is sponsoring a blood drive on Wednesday, Oct. 7, from 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Manatee County Courthouse and Judicial Center, 1115 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton. The event is in honor of the late Clerk of Circuit Court and Comptroller, R.B. “Chips” Shore. All donors will receive a T-shirt, and a wellness checkup including blood pressure, pulse, temperature and iron count, plus a cholesterol screening. Generally healthy people age 16 or older who weigh at least 110 pounds
mances for will call only. For more information call 941-7785755 or visit www.theislandplayers.org.
can donate blood. To schedule an appointment, visit www.oneblooddonor.org and use sponsor code 14196, or call 1.888.9.DONATE (1-888-936-6283). Walk-ins are welcome.
SHINE Program needs volunteers The Florida Department of Elder Affairs and the West Central Florida Area Agency on Aging need volunteers to join the award-winning SHINE team to help the elderly make decisions on Medicare, health insurance and prescription drug plans. Volunteers may also make educational presentations to community groups and participate in local health fairs, senior fairs and other outreach and educational events. For more information or to volunteer, call the Elder Helpline at 1-813-740-3888, ext. 5593.
Volunteer advocates needed Florida’s Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program needs volunteers to join its corps of dedicated advocates who protect the rights of elders who live in nursing homes, assisted living facilities and adult family care homes. The program’s local councils are seeking additional volunteers to identify, investigate and resolve residents’ concerns. Special training and certification is provided. All interested individuals who care about protecting the health, safety, welfare and rights of long-term care facility residents are encouraged to call toll-free 1-888-831-0404 or visit the program’s Website at http://ombudsman. myflorida.com.
SEPTEMBER 30, 2015
FUN IN THE SUN
Across 1 Card __ 6 "The Hobbit" being 9 Tied accessory 14 Cameron Indoor Stadium college hoopster 16 It has a backup 17 Feigns innocence 18 Like Zitronen 19 Inexperienced 20 Tons 21 First 22 Acidity nos. 24 Virtue of the 2010 Olympic champion ice dancing team Virtue and Moir 26 Gershon of "Killer Joe" 27 It involves pockets 29 Some crosses 31 Alley ending? 32 Freelancers' encls.
Answers to 09-23-15 Crossword Puzzle.
34 Ross Sea sight 35 Captain's dir. 36 Does some political maneuvering 40 Tokyo-born artist 41 Lit __ 42 Kennel pickup area 43 Coin first minted in 13th-century France 44 Challenging pitch 46 Baryshnikov, at birth 48 What "c" may mean in South Africa 50 "One can say everything best over __": George Eliot 52 Corp. treasurer, perhaps 53 Playground comeback 55 __ Dei 57 Bodybuilder Ferrigno 59 Ballerina Shearer 60 Eccentrics
THE SUN
35
62 Big name in auditing 63 Police-search discovery 64 Colorful Danish export 65 B.C. neighbor 66 10th-century English king Down 1 It takes you to the top 2 Sadie Hawkins creator 3 Reaction to excessive attention to detail 4 "__ Troyens": Berlioz opera 5 Krabappel of "The Simpsons" 6 More wicked 7 Unplugs in a big way 8 Traveled alone, perhaps 9 Lhasa __ 10 Urban Dictionary content 11 Post-washing warning 12 Game for two 13 Roofing material 15 Bridge column word 23 Gouge 25 Festoon 28 Clinging type 30 Calyx part 33 Aleppo's land 36 Marlboro Man contemporary 37 Again 38 Frat founded in 1855 at Ohio's Miami University
39 Gp. that includes Nigeria 45 Country with the largest surface area of water 47 Amble (along)
49 Statue subject 51 "__ and His Empire": 1972 Pulitzer-winning biography 54 Mare's mouthful
56 Terrier type 58 Like many eBay items 61 One hanging out in a coll. office?
36
www.amisun.com
THE SUN
SEPTEMBER 30, 2015
compliance: City expands efforts FROM PAGE 1
On Sept. 16, Anna Maria Building Official Jimmy Strickland filed two separate DBPR complaints against Kaleta. The first complaint referenced properties at 101 Willow Ave. and 9802 Gulf Dr. “Due to continued Florida Building Code violations with not obtaining required permits, I feel that it is in the best interest of the city to submit this complaint,” Strickland wrote. The second complaint includes the Willow Ave and Gulf Drive properties and recently developed properties at 209 and 211 Magnolia Avenue. In the second complaint, Strickland wrote, “Mr. Kaleta has performed work on construction projects in the city of Anna Maria without obtaining proper permits before the work has started.” Strickland also noted that stop work orders were posted at the Willow Avenue property on May 11 and at the Gulf Drive property on July 31. In regard to the Gulf Drive property, Strickland wrote, “He continued to perform electrical and tile work. As of 9/16 there is no permit for the electrical work that been performed. Other stop works were issued for 209 and 211 Magnolia. These were issued for not
Mr. Kaleta has performed work on construction projects in the city of Anna Maria without obtaining proper permits before the work has started.” joe hendricks | sun
These rental units at 209 and 211 Magnolia are the subject of a complaint the city has filed with Department of Business and Professional Regulation. obtaining a certificate of occupancy in which the homes were being used as vacation rentals and rented out.” The complaints will be reviewed by DBRP’s Construction Licensing Board.
New board approved
Mayor Dan Murphy and the city commission also took action at the local level. Last week, commissioners unanimously approved on first reading an ordinance that will lead
to the creation of a local construction regulation board that will have the ability to deny, suspend, or revoke the authority of a state-certified contractor to obtain city-issued building permits if found guilty of fraud or willful building code violations. Determinations made by the local construction regulation board will take place in the form of quasi-judicial hearings with attorneys and the presentation of evidence.
Jimmy Strickland Building Official Murphy suggested the board consist of three current and yet to be determined planning and zoning board members. Commission Chair Chuck Webb suggested the city commission serve as the first line of appeal for those who disagree with the construction board decisions. Commissioner Dale Woodland praised City Attorney Becky Vose for developing the ordinance.
bridge: Public input sought FROM PAGE 1
JOE HENDRICKS | SUN
Stop that roll Manatee County Sheriff’s Office Sgt. Paul Davis reminds motorists to come to a complete stop at the Gulf Drive and Magnolia Avenue intersection in Anna Maria. Davis said he and his deputies have recently issued numerous citations to motorists who navigated rolling stops or worse when passing through one of Anna Maria’s busiest intersections. Citing pedestrian safety and crash prevention as priorities, Davis said, “I don’t want to take $166 out of your pocket, but we expect the public to follow the law; and when they can’t, we will help them.”
for the committee, she said. A 65-foot-high fixed bridge is approved to replace the 58-year-old drawbridge, she said, adding that having no drawbridge will allow most vessels to pass under the structure without disrupting traffic. The replacement bridge will be built south of the existing bridge, and include two 12-foot-wide traffic lanes and two 10-foot-wide shoulders. Ten-foot-wide sidewalks will be included on both sides of the bridge, separated from the shoulders by concrete barrier walls. Four and one-half-foot-high railings will be built on the outside of the sidewalks. The project also includes improvements to Manatee Avenue (State Road 64), including the addition of 10-footwide sidewalks and 7-foot-wide bike lanes on both sides of the road. The project will extend from just west of East Bay Drive (State Road 789) in Holmes Beach to just east of the entrance to Harbour Isle, according to the FDOT. Project design has been funded, but construction of the project remains unfunded, Sherrard said.
SEPTEMBER 30, 2015
classified
ANNOUNCEMENTS
PRESSURE WASHING AND WINDOWS residential, commercial & resorts. Roofs, buildings, houses, driveways etc. Call 941-251-5948
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 941-778-1908 ext 0
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
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).
BOATS: PARTS & SERVICES & SALES WE NEED BOATS. Busy, Busy, Busy. Consignment Sales & Purchase 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
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
Call us today! 941-778-3986
RESTAURANT/OFFICE/ RETAIL 1113 sf Kitchen Equipment include Gulf Drive Bradenton Beach $495,000 Call Alan Galletto Island Real Estate 941-232-2216
COMPUTER SERVICES
EMPIRE COMPUTER SERVICE Computer problems fixed in your home or office. The fastest friendliest service around. Serving the Island since 2004. Call 941-739-6424
EMPLOYMENT
LOCAL FULL TIME CLEANER wanted for our properties. Please send resume to hire@simplycleanflorida.com FULL TIME NIGHT Cashier wanted. Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday. 36 hours. Apply in person at Jessie's Island Store 5424 Marina Dr. Holmes Beach, Fl 34217 KEY ROYALE CLUB is now hiring experienced Line Cooks. Pay is commensurate with experience. Please apply in person 700 Key Royale Dr. MARKETING ASSISTANT PART-TIME Busy office, strong communications skills, computer skills. Need to be flexible. Send Resume to PO Box 1394, Anna Maria FL 34216
FOR SALE MEDICAL INVERSION TABLE Practically new $150. Call 941-778-4579
THE SUN
CHAIRS 6 Black Stackable $50, Large White Wicker $50, Small White Wicker with cushions $50, Black Dresser $80, White Dresser $55, HP 7250 Printer complete with extra ink $65. All great condition! Call 616-634-6633
DONATE YOUR STUFF for rummage for rescues - a yard sale October 2-4 to benefit local homeless shelter animals. pick up provided. 941-713-3105. RUMMAGE FOR RESCUES OCT 2, 3, 4 8am2pm 318 Magnolia Ave Anna Maria. Benefits homeless shelter pets.
FURNITURE CUSTOM COASTAL FURNITURE & CABINETS by Frankie Z. ebay store. Call 941-726-1482. 10015 Cortez Rd (corner of 101st) frankiezaff@yahoo.com 5 PIECE CINDY CRAWFORD Living Room Set 3 seat sofa bed, 2 seat sofa, 2 end tables, 1 coffee table Honey colored upholstery, dark wood and rattan trims. Smoke and pet free home $699 OBO. Call Sharon 941-840-4597 ENTERTAINMENT CENTER WITH curved glass ends. Must see. Call 941-3832269 PALMA SOLA THRIFT SHOP. 9516 Cortez Rd W (just across bridge) SALE! SALE! SALE! Over full with furniture. We deal with quality only. Let us help you furnish your Condo/ Home etc. Bedroom sets, Love seats, Sofas, Dining room/Kitchen sets, Patio, Home decor, Beach decor. Many furniture accent pieces. Call 941-812-7679 for Private appointment or questions
GARAGE, MOVING, RUMMAGE & YARD SALES SALE! NIKI’S. 5351 Gulf Dr, Holmes Beach. All Sterling jewelry 20% to 50% off. Select Gifts, Books, Crystal, Vintage & Costume Jewelry, Miniatures, Dolls, Porcelain Collectibles 30% to 80% off. Bathing Suit Department Great Buys! Beautiful Scented Soaps. Huge Selection of Drift Wood. Open 7 days 9:30am-5pm. ROSER THRIFT SHOP will re-open Thursday, October1 from 9:30a.m. - 2p.m. and on Saturday 10a.m.1p.m.. 511 Pine Ave. Anna Maria. 941-779-2733
HOME IMPROVEMENTS TILE! TILE! TILE! All variations of tile supplied and installed. Quality workmanship. Prompt, reliable, many Island references. Free estimates. Neil 941-726-3077
RENOVATION SPECALIST ALL carpentry repairs, Wash Family Construction, locally owned and operated CBC 1258250 Call 941-7250073. KERN CONSTRUCTION NEW Homes & Remodel. Design/Build. Since 1968. License # CRC1327296. Call Jerry Kern 941-5042222 www.kernconstructioninc.com “HONEY DO" HOME Repairs & Handyman Services. 35 yrs experience. Painting, drywall, tile, woodwork. All tasks. Call 941-896-5256 or 941-807-5256 www.honeydohomerepairinc.com CONSTRUCTION, PROJECT MANAGEMENT, Remodel O.T.A.R., LLC “On Time & Right” Licensed & Insured Rob Wooten 941-812-8557 otarllc@gmail.com
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
AMISUN.COM
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
MOVING & STORAGE MARTIN’S MOVING YOUR Island movers! Offering dependable, competitive rates. No hidden costs. 941-809-5777. TWO MEN and a TRUCK. Movers who care. Local and Long distance. www. twomen.com Call 941-3591904. We sell boxes!
PAINTING & WALLCOVERING PAINT! PAINT! AND MORE 28 years of experienced interior/exterior custom painting. Pressure cleaning, drywall repairs and texture finishes. Many Island references. Please call Neil for free estimates. 941-812-0507 WALY PRECISION PAINTING custom painting, pressure washing, commercial/residential, interior/exterior, drywall/stucco, Licensed & insured. Call 941-448-1928 or 941-580-4005 www. WalyPrecisionPainting.com
PERSONAL SERVICES THE TINT GUY." Commercial, residential, automotive, marine. Free estimates. All work guaranteed. Over 25 years experience. Mobile service available. Call 941-2012649
POOL SERVICES FOUR SEASONS POOL SERVICE. AMI & West Bradenton. Certified Pool Operator. Residential/commercial. {Chemical Service} Licensed & Insured. Call Dennis Clark 941-737-5657
37
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 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 LOOKING TO BUY or SALE a home? Contact Darcie Duncan for a personal approach to your real estate needs that will always make you feel at home. Discover the Duncan Difference. 941-779-0304
WEST BRADENTON DUPLEX 1413 & 1415 28th St W, Ground level block duplex. Nice residential neighborhood. 3BR/2BA/2CG & 2BR/1BA with carport. Approximately 2500SF Would make great family compound or Investment Property. $249,900. A Paradise Realty. Call JoAnne 941-8092488
38
THE SUN
classified
REAL ESTATE HOMES & CONDOS FOR SALE 2BR/2BA VILLA 1100SF Age & Pet friendly. West Bradenton 10 minutes to beach, close to hospital, shopping & transportation. $119,000 Call 941-746-3276 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
RENTALS: ANNUAL ANNUAL RENTALS WANTED! We have well qualified tenants for beach and mainland annual rentals, Full management or Finders fee. Call today for details. Ask for Ed. DUNCAN REAL ESTATE 941-779-0304 www.teamduncan.com ANNUAL RENTAL and CONDOMINIUM Association management serviced by (2) offices open 7 days a week! Contact junew@ islandreal.com – 941-3451295 - Island Real Estate of Anna Maria Island, Inc
Call us today! 941-778-3986
2BR/2BA UNFURNISHED COND in Smugglers Landing. Completely renovated. Application fee and Association approval required. Annual Lease $2500- Contact A Paradise 941-778-4800 ANNUAL RENTALS2BR/1BA Gulf View $1,400/mo, 2BR/1BA one off beach $1,650/ mo, 1BR/1BA one off beach $1,350/mo. All NO Pets, Non-Smoking. Fran Maxon Real Estate 941-778-2307 WEST BRADENTON RENTAL: Duplex 2BR/1BA/1CG 4715A 34th St W $950/mo. Available Now. First/last & security deposit. 1 year lease. Application fee. Call 941809-2488 for Appointment HOLMES BEACH: 2 BR/2.5BA town home with community pool, carport, remodeled kitchen and bathrooms. $1700/mo. Available now. Key Royale: 3 BR/2BA home on canal, new paint and flooring. $2200/mo. Includes landscape. Quiet neighborhood. Ready Oct. 1. Palma Sola Harbour: 1BR/1BA furnished villa w/community pool, boat docks, & fitness center. $1500/mo. includes all utilities. Ready now. Contact junew@islandreal. com or call 941-345-1295
RENTALS: SEASONAL & VACATION TIFFANY PLACE Gulf Front Condo for Rent Incredible views from living room and master bedroom. 2BR/2BA Green Real Estate Call 941-778-0455 ANNA MARIA ISLAND, Fl Condos. Pool beach access, fully equipped $650-$800/ wk Redekercondos.com 941-704-7525 or 941-7781915 WILLKOMMEN AUF AMI! Besuchen Sie Island Real Estate in einem unserer Inselbüros (6101 Marina Drive oder 419 Pine Ave) mit unserem deutschsprachigen Reservierungsservice und erhalten ein freies Island Real Estate Baseball Cap! Wir geben Ihnen gerne mehr Auskunft über unsere 250 ausgewählte Feriendomizile für Ihren nächsten Urlaub! MONTHLY RENTAL SPECIALS on AMI! 3BR/2BA fully furnished home with pool and elevator! Call Duncan Real Estate for details! 941-779-0304
AMISUN.COM
SEPTEMBER 30, 2015
3BR/2BA HISTORICAL COTTAGE with pool. Pine Ave. Available November thru March. Brenda Boyd May 941-730-8589 Boyd Realty
REAL ESTATE: WANTED TO BUY ANNA MARIA COUPLE looking to Buy House or Duplex in City of Anna Maria or North Holmes Beach. Prefer ground floor on Water. Call 941-778-3926
RENTAL WANTED WANTED TO RENT 1BR or 2BR Condo/Apartment 3 months January-March on Island. Coming from Canada. Please call 905338-6109 or email phyllisneale@hotmail.com SOLO PROFESSIONAL SEEKING 2BR rental for Feb-March 2016. Need access to Internet and phone line AMI or Long Beach area. Call 802-238-6449 RETIRED COUPLE LOOKING for reasonable priced long term annual rental near or on beach. 2 bed/ 2 bath no pets no smoking. November. December. January. Start time okay. email at msteele100@comcast. net
TRANSPORTATION AMI TAXI metered-on-callcards accepted. Airport: Tampa $85, Sarasota $35, Clearwater $75, Fort Meyers $150, Orlando $150. Call 800-301-4816. amitaxi4u@gmail.com, www. amitaxi.com TOWN CAR SERVICES, All airports served. Local and Long distance services available. Call Glen 941225-0072 ANYTIME TRANSPORTATION to all airports, appointments, shopping, etc. Tampa $60. Sarasota $30. Pets welcome. Very dependable. Reasonable rates. Contact Jeanne. 941-779-5095 ROGER'S AIRPORT SERVICE. Tampa, St. Pete/ Clearwater, Sarasota/ Bradenton. Call Roger 941773-1469 ISLAND SUN AIRPORT Town Car Service TPA $80 PIE $70 SRQ $35$40 941-538-8533
www.amisun.com
SEPTEMBER 30, 2015
business & service directory computer service
THE SUN
39
Call today to place your ad: 941-778-3986
home improvement
painting
movers
transportation
home improvement
40
www.amisun.com
THE SUN
Darcie Duncan Broker - Owner
Cindy Jones Sales Associate
Michelle Laade Sales Associate
Ed Kirn Broker Associate
Greg Burke Sales Associate
Billi Gartman Sales Associate
SEPTEMBER 30, 2015
Kandi Kerekes Sales Associate
April Greene Denise Crownover Susanne Kasten Sales Associate Broker Associate Sales Associate
Vacation Rentals s Sales s Property Management
TeamDuncan.com s 941.779.0304
310 Pine Avenue Anna Maria, FL 34216